Plans for homecoming weekend nearly complete
DAWSON – Plans for the 15th annual Greater Tri-Town Historical Society’s Homecoming Weekend are nearly completed and this year’s event will continue to offer visitors good food, entertainment and train rides for the kids. Historical Society President Patty Lint said the weekend festival, slated for June 2-4, has grown by leaps and bounds over the years.
“So many people really look forward to this weekend,” said Lint. “It’s a time to renew friendships, enjoy good food and entertainment and a time to reconnect with Dawson friends and neighbors.”
Lint said deceased historical society members would be honored at this year’s event following the 1 p.m. parade on Saturday at the honor roll.
“We wanted to honor John Lebergood, who died last month,” said Lint “and we thought this would be a good way to do that. A lot of people don’t know it but John left the Greater Tri-Town Historical Society $50,000.”
Lint said every year the committee does something to honor people who have passed away. She additionally said that Laverne Cooper would be honored with Lebergood.
Lint said a number of new people have called to say that they will set up this year for the first time.
“We have a person with a teepee coming who will be selling crafts,” said Lint. “We also have a man with a train for the kids. And, once again we will sponsor our Friday auction beginning at 5 p.m. in addition to the annual yard sell from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Cochran House on Main Street.”
Lint said a $5 set up fee would be charged for the yard sale. She additionally said that the auction is the historical society’s main fundraiser for the year that helps members pay for costs incurred over the weekend for the parade and fireworks.
Saturday’s events will begin at 9 a.m. with the annual 5-K Run and Walk. Committee Chairman June Newill said anyone who signs up early for the Tri-Town Three would receive a T-Shirt.
“Of course, we will also award trophies,” said Newill, “to the top three male and female walkers and the 5-K runners.”
Newill said anyone who wants to register early could call her at 724-529-7489 and leave a message.
Lint said a slide, an inflatable bounce apparitions and a 4-H duck pond will be set up for kids, while a dunking tank and Bingo will be sponsored by the Dawson Volunteer Fire Company for adults.
At 11 a.m., Blu-Dogg Karaoke will be in the main tent at the Cochran House in addition to a clown and the annual parade will begin at 1 p.m. in Dickerson Run and proceed through town.
Following the parade at 2 p.m., a program to honor Lebergood and Cooper will be held. From 2 to 5:30 p.m., High Ryder will perform in the main tent and at 4 p.m., the annual Duck Race on the Yough River will be held.
From 6 to 8 p.m. Girlz in Black Hats will perform, followed by oldies band Del Soles from 8 to 10 p.m. Keystone Fireworks will be set off at dark.
Sunday’s events will begin at 11 a.m. with a picnic on the lawn at the Cochran House and will run until 1 p.m. There is a small fee for the picnic. From 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., music will be provided and the Chinese auction drawing will be held.
An antique car show featuring classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, customs and special interest cars will also be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. An Ecumenical Church Service will be held at the conclusion of weekend events at 2 p.m.
All of the weekend events will be held near the Cochran House on Main Street. For more information call 724-529-2368.
Lint said historical members are hoping that the sun shines and rain does not fall.
“Last year, it rained on Friday night, but the sun came out for the Saturday and Sunday events,” she said. “We are praying for good weather so keep your fingers crossed.”
Lint said construction on the Dawson Bridge would not begin until after the Homecoming Weekend so visitors can use that route to get to town.