Leadership Elk Cameron Program Explores Local History and Preservation
The Community Education Center’s Leadership Elk and Cameron program’s (LEC) monthly session focused on local history and preservation in March. The day started at The Johnsonburg Community Center where the participants heard from John Kautz and Ray Beimel about the history of Elk and Cameron Counties. Next the group received a tour of the Johnsonburg Community Center from the Director, Tara Pogue. To end the morning, the group got a Brick Block Tour from Stephanie Distler, President of the Johnsonburg Trust. One participant said “I am very impressed that modern opportunities have connected with historic opportunities. Revitalizing old structures to be used for modern opportunities proves that Elk and Cameron Counties continue to appreciate its historical value”.
The group then traveled to Ridgway where they enjoyed lunch at the Brew Bank sponsored by Elk County Real Estate. Michelle Bogacki from the Ridgway Chamber and Ridgway Heritage Council led the group on a walking tour of Ridgway. She focused on the preservation and revitalization of several locations in Ridgway including the Ridgway Public Library, Bella B&B, The Pontzer House, The Schoolhouse, The Masonic Temple Building and The Bogert Hotel. The day ended with a group activity at The Wilderness Trail.
Another participant remarked “Rebuilding and restoring is a strong opportunity in any community with historical presence. I love that communities are rebuilding/restoring to preserve the community history while repurposing to offer modern amenities and entrepreneurial opportunities. I believe that Ridgway and Johnsonburg are creating perfect get-away destinations.”
The Leadership Elk and Cameron program is now recruiting for the next class. The goals of Leadership Elk & Cameron are to increase community awareness and understanding, provide opportunities for collaborative leadership and relationship building, and to foster and promote civic readiness. Applications and information are available at www.communityedcenter.com or by calling the CEC (814) 781-3437.