MEMORIES … Theresa Jacob Farnsel talks about some of the memories she has during her time on the Meta Lassie’s Woman’s Fastpitch Softball team. (PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
A dedication ceremony took place at Metamora Park Memorial Wall on Sunday, June 9th. The ceremony was held to honor individuals to both the Memorial Wall portion, as well as to the Appreciation Wall.
The dedication began at noon with resident and Emcee Cheryl Geer welcoming everyone. First and foremost, everyone in attendance was informed that the village had received a grant for the playground, before being given a brief history of previous Metamora Dedication Ceremonies.
“This Memorial Wall was completed and dedicated in 2000. This began out of a tragedy whose family wanted to make a monetary contribution to the park where he enjoyed playing softball.”
“This wall remembers many persons who have made contributions to, and or, who have called Metamora their home. Many spent their youth in this park.”
“My parents, myself, my siblings, my sons and my grandkids all have enjoyed these ball diamonds, and I am sure many of you can say the same,” said Cheryl Geer.
This year’s individuals added to the Memorial Wall were John J. Eisel, Ray and Kathy Cordrey, Bernard C. Marvin, and Connie & Mary Hebel of the drug store. Daughter Judy Hawker then spoke in order to give a brief history of the drug store.
It was then time to honor those added to the Appreciation Wall. “In 2012 a new section was added to the wall – appreciation wall. Each year names are submitted to council and council then chooses a person or persons, who have made a contribution to the park and or community by adding a name plate to this side of the wall.”
“This year the Village chose Meta Lassie Women Fastpitch Softball Team from 1947. Today we have two of the original members of that team with us. Elaine Langenderfer and Theresa Jacob Farnsel.”
EMCEE … Resident and Emcee Cheryl Geer welcomes everyone to the Metamora Park Dedication Ceremony.
Theresa Jacob Farnsel then spoke about her time on the team and her teammates who have been named for this honor.
Those on the team at that time, and who were recognized were, Winifred Burroughs – 1st base, Norma Hassen – 2nd base, Honey Lou Jacob Burgermeister – shortstop and pitcher, Elaine Langenderfer – 3rd base, Vicky Breeler Wotring – left field, Gerry Becker – centerfield, Jean Langenderfer Simon – right field, Theresa Jacob Farnsel – catcher, Rita Snyder Callaghan – pitcher, Betty Snyder – pitcher, Jeanette Cachran – Shortstop, Alice Hassen – outfield, Marie Wotring – outfield.
Family members for many of these women were present. A trophy was presented to these family members to celebrate their relative’s achievement.
Next, some of the oldest living village residents were recognized. These residents were given a bio questionnaire which was then read to everyone in attendance.
These individuals were Theresa Jacob Farnsel – age 95, Erma Langenderfer – age 95, Donald A. Dickerson – age 92, Irene Warniment – age 91, Janet Doyle – Age 83. Both Therea and Erma will reach the young age of 96 this July.
Emcee Cheryl Geer then closed out the event saying, “Although this event has evolved from its beginning roots, it remains a reminder of our past and the pride we have in our Community Park, which we are able to share with so many.”
“Please take a moment and thank our residents that we have had the good fortune to be able to glean from their past experiences. They have so many rich stories to tell.”