She may not be a native ‘Burr Oakian’, but Sue Sturwold is certainly a valued member of the Burr Oak community.
Sue Sturwold holding the certificate recognizing her as the Burr Oak Grange Citizen of the Year for "excellent community service" and "outstanding achievement." (Click on photo to enlarge)
Evidence of that came Friday evening (July 27) as Sturwold was recognized as the Burr Oak Grange Citizen of the Year.
While introducing Sturwold – but before saying her name – Darlene Tate of Burr Oak Grange # 1350 listed a variety of her contributions to the community, said that “caring” is one of her strongest qualities, and suggested that word should be her middle name. She also said, “Her artistic skills are all over Burr Oak.”
In remarks acknowledging the award, Sturwold talked about being “countrified” and said, “This community has given me opportunities. They have given me a chance to find skills. They have given me a chance to use those skills and to gain confidence.” (Sue Sturwold audio clip – :24)
There’s a full lineup of Heritage Festival activities planned for Saturday (July 28), beginning with a Pancake Breakfast at the Burr Oak United Methodist Church from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. and including a parade at 11 a.m. and fireworks at dusk – around 10 p.m.
Straw baling was underway Friday evening following threshing activity earlier in the day.
The community’s agricultural heritage will be celebrated in several ways throughout the day on Saturday:
- Old Fashioned Farm Machinery – Along the railroad tracks at the back of Railroad Park. This includes old tractors, a threshing machine, a cross cut saw, a 1920’s cedar shingle making machine, hay baling in action, corn shredder and a steam engine!
- The DeKalb County Horsemen’s Association – See antique farming methods with horses in action. Take a pony cart ride! Sample open kettle beans and cornbread.
The festival will conclude on Sunday (July 29) with another Pancake Breakfast at the United Methodist Church from 7:30 to 10:30, a Community Church Service in Church Park at 10:30, and a Hog Roast at 12 noon catered by St. John’s Lutheran Church. Tableware and drinks provided, too! “The Helmsmen Quartet” will be featured during this closing part of the festival – sponsored by the Burr Oak Grange and the Chamber of Commerce.
To view complete schedule for the Heritage Festival, click on the following link: Burr Oak Heritage Festival schedule.
To hear the entire Citizen of the Year presentation, click here (6:38 – 6.07 MB).
