John Easton given 2007 Elder Statesman Award

Berkeley Springs Council #117 Junior Order United American Mechanics has chosen to recognize the continuous contributions to their organization, family, church and community of a dedicated member. John Easton has been selected as the 2007 elder statesman. He has been an active member of Junior Order since March 1973.

For 34 years, he has served in the local council offices, on committees and assisted in fundraising events. All anyone had to say was "would you do" and you could count on him saying yes. At the state level, he served in many areas with the same enthusiasm and was elected State Councilor in 1996.

With all of this, he still managed to be an asset to several local area companies, such as the National Restaurant as a youth, Roth Motors, Kirk Ford, Fleming and Comptons. Each Sunday he heads to mass where he participates and assists with devotion. Though seriously injured at one time, it never stopped him from supporting his family, planting a garden, or repairing equipment and cars on the side.

At any time during the summer his neighbors can count on him sharing vegetables from his garden and he is always available to help a neighbor or friend with a project.

His hobby of restoring and repairing vehicles has afforded him the opportunity to meet and offer his expertise to many. He is an active member of the Mountain State Cruisers and all look to him for guidance on buying, fixing and collecting antique vehicles.