Thoele named Historical Society volunteer of year
Amy Lowery, Steele County Historical Society archives and collections manager is pictured with volunteer of the year Travis Thoele. Staff photo by Karen M. Jorgensen
Travis Thoele was named the Steele County Historical Society (SCHS) Volunteer of the Year Thursday during the organization's annual membership dinner.
Thoele is originally from Stillwater, Okla. He joined the military, where he served as an intelligence specialist. He was stationed at Ft. Bragg with the Special Operations Command, where he worked with GIS mapping.
He said that after his military service, he got a job in Minnesota. When he moved to Owatonna, he decided to volunteer at the Historical Society.
Thoele is relatively new to the society, and he has been instrumental in preparing maps for the group and also participating in events.
At the end of the meeting, he was also elected to a three-year term on the museum’s board of directors.
“Thank you for welcoming me here,” he told the membership.
In other recognitions, Tim Shea was named community partner for the Orphanage Museum.
Katherine Rypka and Rose Anne Rypka were named volunteers of the year for Cottage 11, and Hy-Vee was named community partner.
Patty Jessop was also recognized as the retiring board president.
While there were three open positions on the board, Thoele was the only nominee. Outgoing board members are Dave Effertz, Keith Holman, and Elizabeth Anselmo.
Next event for the society is the Children’s Victorian Tea on Nov. 15.
The Holiday Cookie sale will be on Dec. 3, 3-7 p.m., and Dec. 4, 10 a.m. until sold out. Volunteers will give tours of the Dunnell House on both days.
Dec. 4 will also mark the first Holiday Sip and Shop from 4 to 8 p.m. at the History Center. The event is in partnership with Grapeful Wine Bar. Local craft artisans and area businesses will offer gift items for sale. Shoppers can also purchase wine, beer, and charcuterie cups.
Christmas in the Village takes place from 12-3 p.m. on Dec. 6 at the History Center and the Village of Yesteryear. The Dunnell House will be open, children can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and listen to the Polar Express in the Bixby Depot at 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. The event will feature folklore and crafts from countries around the world.