DANVILLE -- Years of incredible work, including an over-the-top 10th anniversary this year, by Iron Heritage Committee members were recognized by Marty Walzer Wednesday during a sponsorship program.

A former committee chairman, and chairman of the picnic and golf event, he described the committee as "an amazing group of people."

Speaking at the Bennett Mansion, originally the Grove Mansion, Walzer was overwhelmed by the setting. "What a magnificent place in the center of our town, and we have the Sisters (of Sts. Cyril and Methodius) to thank for that," he said.

Walzer recognized and thanked sponsors from all of the past 10 years. Present and receiving plaques were Premier Studios, the Danville Area School District, Cole's Hardware, Villager Realty, Geisinger Health System, Montour County Commissioners, Soroptimists, Jean and Rich Knouse, The Danville News/The Daily Item, Preceptor Delta Alpha, Cherokee Pharmaceuticals, Sisters of Sts. Cyril and Methodius, Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau, Kiddie Korner, Sis and Bill Hause, Scott's Floral Gifts and Greenhouses and Service 1st Federal Credit Union. The other sponsors unable to attend will receive plaques.

"Without the sponsors, there would be no festival. This is not designed and never has been to be money-making. Many of the events have no charge and we try to keep the others affordable so everyone can participate," Walzer said.

When Cherokee Pharmaceuticals received its plaque, Cherokee human resources director Marc Baranouski presented the committee with a $10,000 grant for an upcoming documentary "Our Iron Heritage."

Former committee chairman Jean Knouse honored Ann Fleming with a plaque for nine years of service on the committee.

Also featured was old-time golfing at the mansion, where the first round of golf was played in Danville. Among the golfers testing their skills was Mark Cromley, of Danville, who attends every year. He wore black and white saddle shoes, an argyle sweater vest and knickers a woman specially crafted for him. Cromley admits he plays "quite a bit of golf."

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