To the editor:
It's been a summer of crazy weather and even crazier gas prices, but the Ohio Valley has been able to endure it because of the great events and programs that have been held in the area. Historic Fort Steuben is pleased to have provided several of them, and we wish to thank those who have helped make them possible.
The Ohio Valley Frontier Days Committee was responsible for planning this year's family friendly event. Kudos go to Jerry and Judy Barilla, Dave Nicholson, Frank Gutierrez, John Boleigh, Alan and Shawn Hall, Dick and Peggy Maloney, Bill and Montana Skinner, Dan Filbert, Bill Croskey and Larry Coleman for making sure the festival was historical, educational and fun. Thanks also go to our many volunteers - including those super Boy Scouts - who kept everything running smoothly. The committee is already working on plans for next year's event which will be June 27-28.
The Tribute to the American Soldier offered visitors the opportunity to see and experience military life during the past 250 years. The Marlboro Volunteers provided an outstanding collection of vehicles, equipment and uniforms. The special event radio station set up by the Triangle Amateur Radio Club contacted more than 403 stations in 16 countries and 36 states. Music by the Tri-State Harmonizers, the Toronto Community Band and the Steubenville Civic Choral Society enhanced the spirit of the event.
Probably the most popular program that has been taking place at the fort is in the Louis and Sandra Berkman Amphitheater: the Summer Concert Series sponsored by JP Morgan Chase. The weekly concerts have drawn between 350 and 1,000 people to the beautiful site in downtown Steubenville. By offering a variety of genres, the concert series committee has tried to ensure that everyone will find at least one evening to fit their musical tastes. We are grateful to our many sponsors who have allowed us to keep these concerts free and to the hardworking staff and volunteers who make it happen. None of this would be possible without Deb and Rick Witkowski, Dave Hindman and Earl Tuttle, to name a few. The support of the community members who have faithfully tossed their quarters and dollars into the offerings buckets and keep coming every week has been the best reward for all our efforts.
Historic Fort Steuben has welcomed many visitors this summer to visit the fort and the new exhibits that have been added. In fact, this summer travelers from eight foreign countries (from New Zealand to Finland) and many states (from Maine to Washington) have come to the visitors center and toured the fort. They have all declared Steubenville to be a town filled with great attractions and friendly people. Again, thanks go to our staff and volunteers for giving visitors a warm welcome.
It's very encouraging to see that the community takes pride in the good things happening here in the valley. With everyone's support, Historic Fort Steuben can continue to provide programs and events close to home.
Judy Bratten
Director
Old Fort Steuben
