HAVEN HIGHLIGHTS - Schuylkill Haven

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HIGHLIGHTS
The Little Town That Could ”
No. 49 – Issued Quarterly
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BOROUGH OF SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, PA
MAY 2016
Memorial Day • Yard Sale • Hikes • Playgrounds • Fireworks
Get Out and Enjoy All Our Town Has to Offer
It’s time to shake off the winter doldrums and
wake up to the beauty and resurgence of spring.
Schuylkill Haven Borough has so much to offer in
organized play, park amenities, community-organized
events, celebrations, family and individual enjoyment.
Put your electronic devices aside and experience
life in our small town with bountiful opportunities.
Community-wide yard sale
town’s playgrounds – Green Goose and Willow Street
– will have the supervised program.
Parents should visit the Recreation Department
website at www.havenrec.com for more information
and a registration form.
Movie nights are again planned this summer. The
family-appropriate films will be shown on the second
Thursday each month at Island Park.
The Borough’s annual Community Yard Sale is
this Saturday, May 21 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. The registration deadline has already passed, but you may
still get your location signed up. Registration is only
$5 with proceeds going to the Schuylkill Haven Area
Business Association. Balloons calling attention to
your sale can be picked up at the Library on St. John
Street at 6 a.m. the day of the sale.
For residents not tending to their own yard or
porch sale, it’s a great opportunity to walk through
your community, meet the neighbors, and browse
their sale items for new treasures.
Public swimming and swim lessons are available
at the Schuylkill Haven Area High School pool this
summer. Visit the school district website for additional information.
Summer playgrounds and movies
Take a hike! Get out and walk
Supervised play, games, themed days and contests, and crafts will once again be offered this summer weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Two of the
Healthy Schuylkill Haven has already kicked off
this year’s walking challenge program called “Walk
Haven!” But, it’s never too late to be part of this
healthy activity. Participants are asked to keep a
log of daily walks tallying exercise miles from now
through the town’s Borough Day celebration on
Saturday, Sept. 24.
Walking log sheets and additional information are
available at the Schuylkill Haven Senior Citizen and
Neighborhood Recreation Center, 340 Haven St., and
at the Schuylkill Haven Free Public Library.
SPRING/SUMMER EVENTS
Sat., May 21 – Community Yard Sale, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.;
Look for balloon markers at registered sale sites.
Mon., May 30 – Memorial Day parade, service on
Parkway with Colonel Kyle Feger as keynote speaker;
Lions Club pancake breakfast.
Tues., June 14 – Senior Appreciation Picnic, Island
Park pavilion, 4 to 8 p.m. Free food and activities for
residents, 50 years of age and over.
Sun., June 26 – Island Park Car Cruise-In & Show, 9 a.m.
to 2 p.m.
Saturday, July 9 – Family Fun Night & Fireworks, Island
Park, beginning at 4 p.m.
Sat., July 16 – Haven Night at the Philadelphia Phillies;
bus trip and baseball game, Phillies vs. New York
Mets; ticket purchase deadline is June 1.
You Can Help Build the
Island Recreation Park
See Page 5
– Continued on Page 2
On the inside . . .
Island Park Fundraising .............. Pg.
Rec. Dept. and Utility News ........ Pg.
Mayor Outlines Activities............ Pg.
Summer Reading at Library ........ Pg.
Haven – ATouch of History ........ Pg.
–1–
5
14
18
21
24
Borough Services Update . . . and Events
– Continued from Page 1
Participants are encouraged to invite family and
friends to join in as well. Everyone who participates will be entered into the total number of miles
Schuylkill Haven area walks throughout the summer.
The grand total will be published.
Keep track of the miles you walk and/or time you
exercise. Pedometers can be used
or your time can also be recorded
in order to calculate equivalent
miles – twenty minutes of any
vigorous physical activity will
equal one mile. Swimming, biking,
dancing, running, washing large
objects, wrestling with your children, and other activities can be
included. The important result is
to have fun, exercise and join in the group total.
Healthy Haven is one of the Healthy Schuylkill
communities facilitated by Schuylkill County’s VISION
and is supported by several organizations. Call 570622-6097 for additional information.
Tree City USA for 22 years
Schuylkill Haven Borough was once again spotlighted for its continued dedication to the ideals
of the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program. Steven Ziegler, district fire forester with the
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources,
presented a new flag and other notorieties commemorating the Borough’s 22nd year.
Appropriately timed, the award was presented to
councilman Jerry Bowman, representing the Borough,
April 20 – two days before Earth Day – at a new planting of rhododendron bushes at Island Park.
Healthy Haven happenings
Healthy Haven has numerous activities planned
this spring and summer.
A historic hike through
downtown
Schuylkill
Haven is planned on
Sat., June 4 beginning at
11 a.m.
Rick Nagle will lead
the 90-minute “easy”
tour beginning from the
Senior/Neighborhood Center and ending at the Walk
In Art Center. The tour will highlight Haven transportation – canal, railroads, trolleys, and automobiles.
All new Healthy Haven summer seminars will be
held at PSU Schuylkill … and watch for news about
two “Healthy Harvest Festivals” planned for July and
August at Island Park.
Get regular updates, tips and ideas on Healthy
Haven events by email. Contact Kay Jones at 570-6226097 to get signed up. Let’s make the healthy choice
the easy choice for everyone.
– Continued on Page 4
Johns Physical Therapy
Route 61 North • 400 PineBrook Place
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• Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy
• Post Surgical Rehab
• Work Related and
Auto Accident Injuries
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570-366-0300
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Borough Services Update . . . and Events
– Continued from Page 2
Ticket purchase deadline is
June 1 at a price of $80 per ticket. In addition to the bus transportation and game admission,
a tailgate party at the ballpark
with live music, a T-shirt, and
prize giveaways are included.
Reserved seats for the game are on
the 100 level of the stadium.
Support for this trip in prior years has far exceeded expectations. See the back page of this newsletter for additional information and a ticket request
form. All proceeds benefit improvements to Island
Recreation Park.
Family Fun Night and Fireworks
Enjoy music, games, a bounce house and slide,
great food and fun at the Island Recreation Park on
Sat., July 9. The annual Family Fun Night will get
underway at 4 p.m. A fireworks display dazzles at
9:30 p.m.
Volunteers are needed to help with games, food
and rides. Call 385-1313 to lend a hand.
Haven Night at the Phillies
Get ready for the first pitch on Saturday, July 16
at the eleventh annual Schuylkill Haven Day at the
Phillies. The Phillies are playing the New York Mets.
One lucky drawing winner from the group will throw
out the ceremonial “first pitch” and get a tour of the
clubhouse for up to four people.
Police chief advises “Go Topless!”
Spring is here, and its time to take your tops off.
With the arrival of warmer weather, it’s always
nice to take your top off.
I’m referring to your Jeep top. Jeep owners love
their vehicles and the freedom they provide both on
and off the road. With that freedom comes the urge to
take the roof off when the temperatures rise.
Every spring police officers observe Jeep owners driving on the roadway with the roof and doors
off enjoying the oncoming breeze. Who could blame
them? At times I wish I had a Jeep to participate in
this spring ritual.
SPREAD THE WORD
Interested in submitting an article for next
quarter’s issue of Haven Highlights? We
welcome community service and non-profit
organization information. Please contact
Kathy Killian at 570-385-2841 or at:
[email protected]
– Continued on Page 6
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WITH THIS AD – EXPIRES 10/31/16
Schuylkill Haven Island Park 2016 Fundraising Appeal
The Schuylkill Haven Island Committee is conducting its Annual Fundraising Appeal to continue the development
of Schuylkill Haven Island Park into an outstanding natural, recreational and cultural facility not only for Schuylkill
Haven, but the entire Schuylkill County Region.
Thousands of people are benefitting from the following activities on the Island:
T-Ball
Little League Travel Baseball
NFL Flag Football
Car Show
Soccer
Schuylkill River Sojourn
Softball
Island Park Festival
Family Night and 4th of July Fireworks
Kick Ball
Fishing
Fall Festival
Canoeing
Jogging
Biking
Pumpkin Patch
Senior Citizen Appreciation Night
With your financial support these activities will continue, while opening other opportunities to serve more people in
the years to come.
With the help of local residents and businesses, over the last ten years we have been able to complete the following:
Soccer Field with electric scoreboard, 2 Softball/Youth baseball fields, Spacious Pavilion with lights, Renovations
to the Concession Stand, Rehabilitating the Walking Trail, and Erecting a Memorial honoring the residents of the
former Irish Flats, which also proudly displays our US. flag, State flag and Borough flag.
Flag Football
Memorial honoring the residents
of the former Irish flats
Walking Trail
Schuylkill River Sojourn
With your help, we have accomplished much, but there is still much more to be done.
Your continued help, will enable us to complete the following:
• Walking Bridge to downtown Schuylkill Haven • Event Stage (in the planning process)
• Press Box and other enhancements to the Softball/Youth Baseball fields
Every dollar received moves us closer to turning a dream into a reality for future generations to enjoy.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Schuylkill Haven Island Project Fundraising Appeal
❑ I am pleased to support Schuylkill Haven’s Island Project Fundraising Appeal with a gift of $
❑ My pledge will be paid in 2016.
❑ I will spread my pledge over 3 years – 2016
2017
2018
❑ Enclosed is my check made payable to: SCHUYLKILL HAVEN ISLAND COMMITTEE, INC.
Please drop off this form at the Schuylkill Haven Borough Hall or mail it to:
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN ISLAND COMMITTEE, INC. - 333 Center Ave., Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
(Envelope Enclosed)
Name
Company or Organization Name if Applicable
Address
Phone
Your Pledge Is Tax Deductible. Schuylkill Haven Island Committee, Inc. Is A 501-C3 Non-Profit Organization
–5–
Borough Services Update . . . and Events
– Continued from Page 4
I hate to put a dampener on things, but this is
illegal. Specifically, taking your Jeep doors off and
operating it on a roadway or highway within the
Commonwealth is what makes it illegal.
This issue has been confirmed with the
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Their
opinion is based on section 175.77 of the PA inspection code that indicates a vehicle having doors as
original equipment must have them attached during
inspection.
If original safety equipment is not attached, the
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vehicle cannot be
driven on a
roadway or
highway. If
the doors
are needed for
inspection, the
doors
are
needed
for safe
operation
on the
roadway/
highway.
The enforcement section is
spelled out under Title
75 section 4107 9b) (2) Unlawful Activities. This section states it is unlawful for any person to operate
a vehicle on any highway in the Commonwealth not
equipped as required under department regulations.
This violation calls for a $25 fine for a first offense.
So, when the weather heats up, take the roofs off
but keep the doors on. And, don’t forget to wear your
seatbelts. Take care and be safe.
– Chief Jeff Walcott
–6–
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Residential Sales * Appraisal Services * Commercial
–7–
From the Desk of the Borough Administrator
Tommy C. Keefer – Ambassador of Schuylkill Haven
By Scott Graver
This issue I will veer off my usual newsletter topics of events, projects and other borough
happenings. Instead, I offer the following article originally published in the Borough’s 2011
newsletter plus an update.
On May 19, 1991 a young man named Tommy C.
Keefer started working for the Borough of Schuylkill
Haven. Although this may not seem like breaking
news, as many individuals have worked here well
before Tommy, none have overcome the obstacles
Tommy faced that day and faces every day.
Article published five years ago
I don’t think there is a person in Schuylkill Haven
that hasn’t heard his name and doesn’t know of the
person. As you read this newsletter, Tommy will be
achieving a monumental milestone in his life … celebrating his 20th anniversary year working for the
Borough.
Tommy started working for the borough in May
of 1991 under a government aid program. I don’t
know how long that particular program lasted; but,
I do know Tommy has survived numerous borough
administrators and has prospered as an individual
during that time.
There isn’t a day that goes by that Tommy doesn’t
reveal to his co-workers
something new about himself. His determination to
show up for work despite
many obstacles amazes me
to no end.
His concern for other
people’s whereabouts and
as to why they may not
be at work is, to say the
least, interesting. Tommy
has more than a few repetitive phrases, but the one
that sticks in mind more
than others is “nice day out
today.” He states this even
TOMMY KEEFER
though it may be raining,
snowing, freezing or just plain sweltering heat. In
retrospect, most of the general population makes it a
point to complain if the weather isn’t perfect. Tommy
chooses just the opposite approach and views it as a
minor inconvenience.
Tommy has routines that make all of us laugh and
smile. He insists on going outside to work despite the
most torrid weather conditions. He reminds every-
– Continued on Page 10
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From the Desk of the Borough Administrator
– Continued from Page 8
body twice a year and at least a week in advance to
reset our clocks for daylight savings time. He gives
that piece of advice very seriously.
He tells me when the garbage cans aren’t emptied on Main
Street. He lets me know when he
doesn’t hear the testing of a fire
station siren. He tells me when
shops don’t open early enough
for him to get his coffee, before
starting work. He tells me what I
should be discussing at council
meetings. He asks me or Mike,
the code officer, to inspect his
work.
His routine includes a daily
Scott Graver
visit to the borough hall every
Borough Admin.
afternoon, although he has more
than likely been there in the morning to perform his
job tasks. His afternoon visit is most entertaining
and enlightening to all of us. He insists that the code
officer give him the five-day weather report from the
website. He sometimes might plop himself down in
my office even though I may be in a meeting or otherwise preoccupied with other things.
In all actuality, I look forward to this brief afternoon visit and on those few occasions when he
doesn’t show up I inquire whether I missed him or if
he wasn’t here. He knows my daughter cuts my hair
and tells me when I need a haircut … not once, not
twice but ultimately until I have it done. He sometimes shows up in a very spirited manner, if his daily
routine has been interrupted by an unscheduled event
either in his personal life or work experience.
He does not forget anything. He is incredibly
artful at dodging questions that he doesn’t want to
answer. I’ve watched him wash windows with newspaper … how many of us remember when our mom told
us that newspapers were the best thing for cleaning
windows? He loves to take on new tasks and will tell
me if somebody else is trying to do his job.
I believe Tommy has some abilities that many of
us are lacking. I’ve stated many times before that my
time here as Borough Administrator has been rewarding. However, it is hard to measure the rewards that
Tommy has taught me during that same time. I don’t
think a day goes by that I don’t marvel or remark to
borough office staff about Tommy’s comments, questions and just his overall presence of mind.
Tommy has a propensity for being clever, conniving, rambunctious, contrite, spontaneous and completely changing the conversation at hand if it’s not
going as he planned.
Routine is something Tommy thrives on and he
lets us all know how upset he is if we change that.
He truly enjoys and looks forward to his weekday
– Continued on Page 12
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– 10 –
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today,
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Do they know your wishes and would your final arrangements be exactly as you wish? Whenever
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Life, like an investment, requires an exit strategy.
It’s your final act; make sure it goes as planned, preplanned.
– 11 –
From the Desk of the Borough Administrator
– Continued from Page 10
lunch at Saint John’s church. I remember one occasion, in particular, when Tommy’s sister made a doctor’s appointment for him immediately preceding his
twelve o’clock quitting time. Needless to say, he did
everything in his power in an attempt
to convince anybody that would listen that he was in fact not going to
the doctor as it was more important
to get to Saint John’s Church for
lunch.
Tommy is special to me and most
of all there is a special place in my
heart for him. I can only wish that I
have the opportunity to spend many
more years with Tommy. He has
taught me lessons about life that no text book or
person could.
Flash ahead to 2016
Tommy is still working for the Borough and will
now have achieved a monumental milestone in both
his career and life. Tommy is now celebrating his 25th
year of actively working for the Borough. Many may
have thought this would have never happened.
I truly believe the combination of family, borough
workers and most of all Tommy’s tenacious attitude
toward work and the importance of his “got to make
a living” attitude has helped him persevere through
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what others would consider as insurmountable obstacles.
Tommy is a “one of a kind” in my eyes and I say
that because over the last eight years he has demonstrated to me a remarkable unwillingness to not give
up or just plain kick back and take it easy.
Andre Masse said it best in the following quotes from “The Beatitudes of
the Exceptional Child” – “Blessed are
you who take time to listen to difficult
speech for you help us to know that if
we persevere we can be understood”
and “Blessed are you who walk with us
in public places and ignore the stares
of strangers for in your companionship we find havens of relaxation”.
Over the last eight years Tommy has taught me
many “life lessons” that can’t be duplicated by any
book or curriculum of study. I cherish every opportunity, problem, obstacle and just plain companionship
that Tommy has to offer! I often think that Tommy
would have made a good politician as he is constantly
lobbying and or maneuvering for something to go his
way.
Although I think I know Tommy pretty well, he
never fails to amaze me with something new to add
to his repertoire. His phrase “got to make a living” is
a classic here in the office.
Some of us may look ahead to retirement, some
can’t wait for retirement, and some don’t even want
to think about it, regardless of their age. Tommy falls
into that last category, as he has no intentions to
retire and can’t really understand why anybody would
want to do it?
Tommy is better than a newspaper, a beautician
or a barber as he has all of the news you need within
the community. He loves to go along on inspections
or just plain check up on the men. He has many buddies from the Schuylkill Hose and can relate quite a
few stories about Jim, Carter and Trent.
Tommy is a gifted person whose contagious wit,
smile and predictability are contagious to all of us. I
have the utmost appreciation for his work ethic. If he
does decide to retire, God Bless Chris and Kay. Mostly,
though, I will miss my little buddy!
– Scott Graver, Borough Administrator
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Borough Utilities – Water, Electric, Streets & More
Folk tales on recreation
The Schuylkill Haven Recreation Board was created 57 years ago on May 11, 1959.
At that time, recreation was something a little foreign to public works at a local level in Pennsylvania
and throughout the country. Everyone wanted new
playgrounds, parks, and outdoor pools because those
amenities attracted residents and visitors to the
community. Not many communities could spend the
money to get those facilities. Thankfully, that day in
May, Schuylkill Haven Borough Council voted to create an ordinance for a Recreation Board, paving the
way for a Recreation Department.
The Recreation Board’s main purpose, much
like today, was to provide programs and recreation
facilities. The number one focus in 1959, and for
several years thereafter, was a grassy area behind the
Schuylkill Haven High School and named Rotary Field.
A partnership was formed between the school district
and the Borough to create the Recreation Board and
develop that land into the complex it is today.
The creation of the department further led to
programs still around today, such as T-ball (originally
known here as “Grasshoppers”), basketball, and the
playground program.
Over the years, the focus, members, and size of
the Recreation Board and Department has changed.
But one thing remains clear, the goal for all was, and
is, to continue to provide quality programs and facili-
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Major projects over the years included Rotary
Field, the Senior/Neighborhood Center, Stoyer’s Dam,
and Island Park to name a few. Each project never
seemed to reach completion, but rather created new
directions and ideas to continue to develop and
grow those facilities.
This growth has created more programs, events, projects, jobs, and development. The department has become
an asset as an employer for youth in the
community. Young adults can stay in
town and work to create a better place
to live. Throughout the year, these
young adults help provide programs and maintenance
to the facilities they once used as a young child.
Fifty-seven years ago, those volunteers on the
original Recreation Board took the time to create
something special in this community. What rings true
is it takes volunteers, such as the members who have
served the Recreation Boards through the years, making it all possible.
Expansion of programs, facilities, and events not
only take time and money, but also people. Our volunteer force is limited. New partnerships have emerged
with Trout Unlimited, the Jungle, and with the school
district booster clubs. Partnerships occur for the betterment of participants, but many times it occurs out
of necessity.
We as a Borough and Recreation Department
want to provide everything we can for our residents,
but sometimes that is not possible. Pools, dog parks,
more playgrounds, and outdoor trails are great ideas;
but, they take time, money, and volunteers.
Please consider volunteering to help at an event
or even just telling someone to clean up their mess
at our parks. Think back to those several people, 57
years ago, who took the time to create something
special in the community … be part of the effort now.
– William J. “BJ” Folk, Manager
Recreation Department
Power up with the Electric Department
Be prepared for the power of summer time
storms. Summer can bring a variety of weather – from
tornadoes and thunderstorms to wind shears and
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– 14 –
Borough Utilities – Water, Electric, Streets & More
flash flooding. Severe weather can change rapidly and
have ramifications on our electric system.
So what can you do if a severe storm hits and a
power outage occurs? First, every family should have
a disaster kit on hand in case of an emergency. The kits should contain nonperishable food, drinking water, flashlights,
and a battery-operated radio or television with extra batteries. Kits should be
customized for your own needs and
be checked once a year to make sure
everything is in order.
If you own a generator, make sure it’s
rated for what you will be using it for. If you
own a portable generator, don’t connect it to your
home electric system. You can run outdoor rated
extension cords and plug them directly into the generator outlets. Also, remember to keep the generator
outside and away from your building, windows and
doors so that exhaust doesn’t enter your building. If
you have a stationary generator, make sure a qualified
electrician installs a proper UL-listed transfer switch
to prevent backfeed onto our system where personnel
are working.
If there are downed power lines outside your
home or on the street, always consider them energized until our electric department comes and verifies
they are safe. If you see downed wires or the storm
has any of your electric service damaged, contact
Borough Hall at 570-385-2841 or, after hours, call 911
if it’s an emergency. Proper people will be notified in
the quickest time period possible.
– Jim Haeseler, Foreman
Electric Department
Highway Department
Time to clean up the town! The street sweeper
will be in operation the first whole week of each
month – June 7-10, July 5-8, August 2-5, September
6-9, October 4-7, and November 1-4 – from 3 to 6
a.m. Check the sign posting on your street for the
days of operation and please move your vehicle when
the sweeper is scheduled. The police will issue a $15
ticket for vehicles not removed between these hours.
Yard waste – limbs, leaves, and grass clippings
– is collected on the second Monday each month.
Biodegradable bags, made of recycled paper, are a
great substitute to plastic garbage bags. They can
be purchased at hardware stores and larger home
improvement chains. Not only will you help the community, but will help protect the future of our environment for generations to come.
Our compost area is open to residents of Schuylkill
Haven Borough for yard waste only. Do not dump garbage or other unwanted items in this area … this will
help ensure this convenience will continue. Empty
garbage bags and place them in the barrels provided.
– 15 –
– Continued on Page 16
Borough Utilities – Water, Electric, Streets & More
– Continued from Page 15
Garbage bags are not part of the compost recycling
program.
– Brian O. Murray, Foreman
Highway Department
Water Distribution & Wastewater
There are many signs that we look for that
announce the coming of spring … robins in our yards,
bulb plants bursting through the soil, and signs of
green starting to show in our lawns.
As we mentioned in our
fall newsletter, spring brings
about the first of our semiannual maintenance tasks
– the flushing of our water
distribution system and fire
hydrants. This is followed
by street paving restoration
work to areas dug up during
the winter for emergency repairs.
Then in late spring we start planning and laying
out the projects that our water/sewer department
budgeted in 2016. This year the water department
will rebuild the water distribution system on upper
Parkway from W. Liberty to Railroad Street and also
on Dewey from Schumacher Avenue to Fairview. This
project will improve pressure to this area and provide
a much needed upgrade to the system.
REACH
EACH EVERY
EVERY HOUSE
HOUSE
REACH
AGED
T
S
PO DUCE ¢
RE 17.6
TO
IN YOUR
YOUR TARGET
TARGET MARKET
MARKET
IN
While all of us are tackling spring cleaning tasks,
please add a couple more to your “to do” list that
will help your borough utility crews and emergency
responders.
• Make sure your building or home has an address
number visible from the street.
• Make sure the Borough Office has your correct
land-based telephone number or your current cell
number and correct address on file. If this information is not on file, the Borough will be unable to
contact you by its SwiftReach notification system
in the event of a utility or other emergency situation.
Center Avenue construction is in the home stretch.
The work season for PennDOT and the Borough is
cranking up. We again ask for patience and understanding as we partner with Kinsley Construction to
complete the widening project sometime late summer. Be alert for workers and equipment while driving
through the construction zone.
Enjoy this wonderful time of the year, warm
weather is on its way!
– Richard L. Croneberger, Foreman
Water Distribution / Wastewater Collection
Wastewater Treatment
Spring is finally here and many of us are ready to
get to planting and landscaping.
Beautifully landscaped yards can be a joy to
homeowners; but, in some cases can turn into expensive nightmares. Roots from trees can invade building
sewers and laterals.
Roots thrive in the warm, moist, nutrient-rich
atmosphere above the water
level inside sanitary sewers.
The flow of warm water inside
the sewer pipe causes water
vapor to escape to the cold
and/or dry soil surrounding the pipe. Tree roots are
attracted to the water vapor
and follow the vapor trail to
the source of the moisture, usually from cracks or
loose joints in the sewer pipe.
Tree roots will penetrate the opening to reach the
nutrients and moisture inside the pipe. This contin-
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– 16 –
Borough Utilities – Water, Electric, Streets & More
ues in winter even though trees appear to be dormant.
Severe root intrusion and structurally damaged pipes
will require replacement. Tree roots growing inside
sewer pipes can become a costly problem for borough
residents.
The best way to avoid this situation is to plant
wisely. Do not plant trees within 20 feet from any
building sewer, lateral, or sewer main. That small
little twig that you plant today can grow into a big
tree in a few years. Roots can travel far underground,
across property lines and under paved roads.
Minimize future problems by planning and planting wisely. Then you can sit back and enjoy your yard,
without any fear of having to dig up a problem in the
future.
– Ron Schultz, Foreman
Wastewater Treatment Facility
Water Treatment Plant
I think by now everyone has heard of the water
problem in Flint, Michigan. I’m not sure how or what
caused that situation; but, I know, after 22 years in
the water industry, lead and copper is stringently
regulated in Pennsylvania by the Department of
Environmental Protection (DEP). The federal government passed the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) into
law in 1974. This was followed 10 years later by the
Pennsylvania Safe Drinking Water Act. The law was
passed to establish a “comprehensive program to
ensure safe drinking water”.
In 1991, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) issued its final Lead and Copper Rule. Our
state’s Lead and Copper Rule became effective in
1994. Its primary objective is
to control lead and copper levels in public drinking water
systems through a treatment
technique for corrosion control. It established a lead action
level of 0.015 milligram per
liter (mg/l) and a copper action
level of 1.3 mg/l. An “action level” is the level at which
the water system must take further action to reduce
lead or copper levels. A mg per l is equivalent to a
penny per a million dollars!
For Schuylkill Haven water system customers,
the last time your drinking water was required to be
tested for these minerals, the results were 0.146 mg/l
for copper and 0.0017 mg/l for lead. This information
can be found in the Consumer Confidence Report on
the Borough’s web site, showing the treatment we are
using for corrosion control is working well. The next
time we will test for lead and copper will be this year
between June 1 and Sept. 30.
So, when a Water Department employee drops off
a bottle to sample your drinking water, you’re helping
to assure your drinking water is safe.
– Kevin Butz, Foreman
Water Treatment Plant
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Delta Dental • Fidelio • Guardian
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South of Willow Street, near the entrance to Tamaqua Cable
570-385-9001
We co-operate with
most Insurance Plans
– 17 –
A Message from the Mayor
Our Town Offers Many Spring/Summer Activities
Spring! The word itself evokes warmth and growth.
People are already out and about. The grounds
around Stoyer’s Dam are crowded with walkers, runners, and people fishing. Before the leaves start to
engulf the trees, you can catch
a glimpse of everyone using the
Island while driving on Dock
Street.
One event, in particular, that
will inevitably bring a huge crowd
(and some new faces) to the
Island this month is the Relay for
Life event. This will be our first
year hosting the Relay and hope
to give it proper do. Setup starts
Friday, May 20 with the event
Michael Devlin stepping off Saturday morning
Mayor
and ending Sunday, May 22. Want
to be part of the walk? Contact the Recreation Office.
The Senior Citizen Appreciation Picnic will be held
Tuesday, June 14 beginning at 4 p.m. Information
booths for companies and organization with information specific to seniors will be available. The event is
free of charge to persons 50 years of age and older
who live within the Borough of Schuylkill Haven or if
you are a member of the Schuylkill Haven and Vicinity
Council of Churches or if you are a member of the
R&J TOURS – 2016 HAPPENINGS
June 9 – Sands Casino $35 FSP .................................................................................. $ 25
June 11 – St. Michael’s, MD Free Day........................................................................... $ 52
June 15 – “Jukebox Heroes Live” @ Hunterdon Hills (Full Course Meal) ....................... $ 85
June 18 – Gourmet Food Shopping ............................................................................. $ 41
June 18 – Doo Wop Cavalcade @ American Music Theatre .......................................... $ 70
June 21 – Old & Moo Tour & Farm of the Future .......................................................**$ 91
June 25 – Ocean City, NJ Free Day ............................................................................... $ 45
June 29 – Mohegan Sun Casino, Pocono Downs ($25 FSP, $5 Food Voucher)............... $ 26
July 2 – One World Trade Center Observatory ........................................................**$ 98
July 2 – Phillies vs Kansas City (Game time 5:50 p.m.) Fireworks Night .................... $ 65
July 9 – “Finding Neverland” on Broadway ............................................................... $155
July 9 – Wildwood, NJ Free Day ................................................................................ $ 51
July 13 – “Mary Poppins” @ Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre.........................................**$ 77
July 13 – National Zoo, Washington, DC ..................................................................... $ 44
July 14 – Sands Casino $35 FSP .................................................................................. $ 25
July 16 – “Rock, Roll & Soul” @ Hunterdon Hills Playhouse (Full Course Meal) ........... $ 88
July 20 – Baltimore Inner Harbor Free Day .................................................................$ 39
July 20 – “Perfect Wedding” @ Rainbow Dinner Theatre.............................................$ 74
July 21 – Banquet in a Corn Field ............................................................................**$ 97
July 23 – 911 Memorial and Museum ........................................................................$ 65
July 24 – Cleveland Highlights, 3 nights..............................................................DBL $705
Aug 3 – New York Spectacular, Starring The Rocketts ............................................... $108
Aug 4 – Phillies vs San Francisco (Game Time 1:05 p.m.) ..........................................$ 60
Aug 5 – “SAMSON” @ Sight and Sound Theatre (No Meal) ...................................... **$78
**Child’s Price Available
Schuylkill Haven Senior Citizens Organization.
There will be prize bingos, entertainment, and
food and refreshments will be served. There are
many seats at the pavilion but you might want to
bring a folding chair with you, just in case we get a
large crowd. We were filled to the brim last year. The
event is scheduled to finish at 8 p.m., so bring your
appetite!
On Sunday, June 26 the Island Park Committee
will hold its annual Island Park Car Cruise-In and
Show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come and enjoy food
and refreshments for sale, free entertainment, and a
basket raffle. WMGH Magic radio station will do live
remote broadcasts.
If you are a car enthusiast, do not miss this event.
If not, come over anyway for the food because there’s
always something good cooking on the grill. Enjoy the
cars cruising through town after the show between 2
and 3 p.m.
Haven Night at the Phillies will again be enjoyed
Saturday, July 9. Organized by and with funds raised
for the Island Committee, your $80 ticket gets you a
block seat on the 100 level, bus transportation, a tailgate party with DJ entertainment, and a commemorative t-shirt. Ticket purchase deadline is June 1, so
order early! (see back page of this newsletter for all
the information)
The Mayor’s Advisory Committee will meet
Monday, June 20 at 7 p.m. in the council chambers
of the police station on Parkway. This is a typical
town hall meeting with reports from many groups in
the borough. The public is invited to join in for some
interesting discussions.
End of the school year
The school year will end shortly and, with that,
youngsters will be out and about as summer approaches. Be particularly alert driving through town as children may have their minds on other things.
Best wishes to all graduating seniors and good
luck in your future. Our junior member of Schuylkill
Haven Borough Council, John Rakowsky, will be leaving us after graduation. John has been a very vocal
part of our council meetings, providing the latest
3 Berry Rd.
Schuylkill Haven
SPRING & SUMMER HOURS:
Fri., Sat., and Sun.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
COLLABORATIVE ART SHOW & AUCTION
May 15 – Schuylkill Country Club
Call for a Free Copy of our latest TOUR BOOK!
Doors open at 2 p.m.; Auction starts at 3:15 p.m. • $25 in advance; $30 at the door
TOURS
SPRING/SUMMER
CLASSES
CHILDREN’S
SUMMER CAMPS
Check our website or call for more information and to register
www.rjtours.com
www.TheArtsBarn.org
P.O. Box 69 • Cressona, PA 17929
570-385-4488 or 1-855-472-3734
570-366-8736 or check us out on
– 18 –
Facebook
From the Mayor
Newsletter Particulars
updates and happenings from the school district. His
skills and personality will take him far as he prepares
for the future.
Set aside time on Memorial Day
Monday, May 30 is Memorial Day. Join us and the
women and men from the
American Legion to honor
the lives given for our country and celebrate the day in
the freedom they provided.
You can follow the honor
guard that morning, starting
at 7 a.m. in the parking lot of
the American Legion, as they proceed to various monuments throughout the borough and fire their 21-gun
salute in honor of our nation’s fallen soldiers. Then,
join again at noon on Parkway when the Borough pays
tribute to their lives and thanks the veterans for their
sacrifice.
One final note of recognition. Police officer Cody
Mullins has been named Schuylkill Haven’s Officer of
the Year. This young officer has tremendous enthusiasm. The town and its citizens are fortunate to have
a state-of-the-art police department with excellent
police officers.
Have a wonderful summer and enjoy the many
assets our Borough has to offer.
– Mike Devlin, Mayor
– 19 –
“Haven Highlights” is a quarterly newsletter
of the Borough of Schuylkill Haven distributed to
2,900 households within the borough.
The newsletter is designed and printed by
South Schuylkill Printing & Publishing
960 E. Main St. • Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
Ph: 570-385-3120 • Fax: 570-385-0725
E-mail: [email protected]
www.SouthSchuylkillPrinting.com
Publication dates for the next 3 issues are
August 19, November 11, 2016 and February 17, 2017
News Submittals
Nonprofit and community organizations within the Borough are invited to submit news items
for consideration. Written submittals must be received by Kathy Killian in the Borough Offices, [email protected] or call 570-385-2841
for info, four weeks prior to the publication date.
Advertising
Businesses wishing to reach every household
in the Borough of Schuylkill Haven are invited to
advertise in future issues. Contact South Schuylkill Printing & Publishing for more information by
calling Barb @ 570-385-3120. All advertisements
must be received at least three weeks prior to
the publication dates. Ad content is subject to approval and acceptance by the Borough of Schuylkill Haven.
Schuylkill Haven Recreation Department
Keep up-to-date on happenings, downloadable
forms, complete registrations, discover the summer
playground and camp program offerings, and everything the borough’s Recreation Department has to
offer by following us online: Facebook at www.facebook.com/havenrec; Twitter @havenrec; or on our
website www.havenrec.com.
The recreation office is located in the Senior
Citizen/Neighborhood Recreation Center at 340
Haven Street. Call for information at 570-385-1313 or
email [email protected].
Track and Field Camp
The Schuylkill Haven Track Team
and boosters, in conjunction with
the Rec Department, will offer a
Track and Field Camp on Monday,
Wednesday, and Friday – June 6, 8 &
10 – from 6 to 8 p.m. Youngsters who have just completed kindergarten through eighth grade and reside
within the school district are eligible.
The camp will feature training in track and field
fundamentals. Running, jumping and throwing skill
development will be emphasized with both technique
and skill drill sessions. A mini-meet will be held on
the final day of camp. A $15 per child registration fee
is required and will include a camp shirt.
Healthy Haven
Walking promotes good health in persons of all
117 N. Rt. 183
Schuylkill Haven
100 Feet North
of Rt. 183/443
Intersection
570-739-4624
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Walk-Ins always “WELCOME”
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Experienced, Creative, and Friendly Staff of Professionals
No Cost • No Obligation
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ages. How far can you walk throughout the summer months? Sign up now for the Schuylkill Haven
Walking Challenge. Walking logs are available online
or at the Rec. Office.
Wildlife Day Camp
Naturalist “Porcupine Pat” McKinney of the
Schuylkill Conservation District will lead a Wildlife
Day Camp at the Island Recreation Park each day,
Wednesday through Friday, August 17-19. Geared
to students who have just finished first through
third grade and attending the Schuylkill Haven Area
schools, the camp will be held at the pavilion featuring hikes and crafts plus learning about the surrounding forest and fields.
Soccer league sign-ups
A boys and girls non-traveling
league will begin play in August for
youngsters three through 10 years of
age. Due to low numbers last year, there
will not be an older division league. Signups will be available online beginning mid-June.
Upcoming special events
The annual Mayor’s Senior Appreciation Picnic
will be held Tuesday, June 14 at the Island pavilion.
Residents of Schuylkill Haven Borough or members of
the Schuylkill Haven Area Council of Churches, age 50
and older, are invited to attend this free event.
Family Fun Night will again be held at Island Park
on Saturday, July 9 with fireworks to follow. Everyone
is encouraged to come out and enjoy food, games,
music and fun.
Pavilion rentals available for your event
Looking for a place to have a meeting, party or
event? Pavilions
at Bubeck Park
and Island Park
are available for
rent between the
hours of 7 a.m.
and dusk. The
Neighborhood/
Senior Center, which includes a gymnasium and two
rooms, is also available to rent.
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570-544-8245
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Full Day of Beauty or Entire Weight Monitoring Program
Mon.-Fri. 8 to 4; Sat. 8 to 3
– 20 –
Schuylkill Haven Free Public Library
The Schuylkill Haven Free Public Library, 104 St.
John Street, will hold its annual Spring Book and Bake
Sale on Sat., May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find
many delicious baked goods and wonderful
books for purchase that day.
Bake sales are held monthly – October
through June – on the third Saturday offering fresh-baked treats with all proceeds
going to support library programs and services. The book/bake sales help purchase
new books, audio books, and DVDs. The
library will hold one more bake sale on Sat.,
June 18 and then start up again after the
summer on Sat., October 15.
The monthly fundraiser is made possible by angel bakers who donate these delectable
goodies and to patrons who gobble them up. All home
cooks are encouraged to help the cause. Call 570-3850542 if you can help.
Get ready to read this summer
The Summer Reading Program kicks off on Tues.,
June 14 and continues through Fri., August 5. This
year’s theme is “On Your Mark, Get Set … Read!”
The program’s weekly schedule features – Tuesdays:
Elementary School Age, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., and Family
Night, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Wednesdays: Storytime with
Miss Cath, 10:30 a.m., and Teen and Tween Time
on the second and fourth Wednesday, 3 to 4 p.m.;
Thursdays: Baby Lapsit at 1 p.m. and an Elementary
program from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m.; and Fridays: Storytime
with Miss Cath beginning at 10 a.m.
Afternoon of Music fundraiser
The fifth annual Afternoon of Music – themed
“Music from the Movies” – will be held
Sun., June 12 at the Senior/Neighborhood
Recreation Center on Haven Street beginning at 3 p.m. The event features performers from the Schuylkill Choral Society
who volunteer their time and talent for the
benefit of the library.
A dessert reception follows the performance and is included in the event cost. Hess
Catering is proving the paper goods, but home bakers
are asked to donate the desserts. Call the library if
you are able to provide some goodies.
Don’t forget to visit our Facebook page for upto-date information about programs, recently added
materials to the collection and any change in hours.
Regular hours are Monday and Tuesday from 11
a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to
5 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday
from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday hours change for the summer, beginning July 2 through September 3. The library will still
open at 9 a.m., but close at 1 p.m. Weekday hours will
remain the same.
– 21 –
Keep Haven Beautiful . . . from The Code Guy
Spring is the time of year for fresh starts and
new growth. Spring rain and sunny days will bring an
explosion of growth. That said, the Code
Department will be on patrol armed
with notices, in search of high grass and
weeds and reminding busy residents to
keep their properties maintained.
Now, back to those sunny days … Mr.
Humidity will definitely partner with the
heat to enhance all the wonderful smells
waiting to be carried on the breeze in uncharted directions. This can be a wonderful experience if the odor
is one of fresh-cut grass (hint, hint) or the sweet smell
of a flowering garden two doors up.
But, I have yet to hear any resident state, “While
leaving my window open or sitting on my deck, I just
couldn’t get enough of the fragrance of animal waste.”
There is a reason for that… no one enjoys it!
The Code Department will patrol weekly in search
of properties having excessive amounts of animal
waste.
3 easy steps, 1 expensive solution
• Photos will be taken and a warning issued, only
one per calendar year.
• The property in violation will be monitored for
further offenses.
• Any violation/offense noted on the property
after the first warning will automatically generate a citation.
MOYER’S
CAR CARE CENTER, INC.
“Since 1959”
AUTO PARTS & SERVICE
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570-739-4477
102 South Route 183
Schuylkill Haven
The moral of the story: Clean up all animal waste
daily, wash down or apply an odor-reducing product
to odor-emitting areas. Not only will your neighbors
appreciate the effort, your pet will also be more
inclined to use the same spot to do his business. After
all, he doesn’t want to step in it any more than you do.
Trash & storage
Schuylkill Haven residents
have worked hard over the
years to earn a reputation
as having the cleanest town
in Schuylkill County … and
who would dare refute it?
Here are a few things, however,
that could get overlooked because of busy schedules.
Remember to remove all trash and recycling containers from street view as soon as possible after the
scheduled pickup day. Containers left out more than
one day will likely catch the Code Department’s attention and generate a warning.
Prior to pickup day trash/rubbish must be kept in
conventional, well-maintained trash containers with
tight sealing lids. Keep containers clean, organized
and out of street view if possible. Trash bags are
acceptable, but must be stored in a way that does not
encourage or allow animals to rip them open.
Recyclables may not comingle with any household
trash/rubbish. Prior to pickup, keep recyclables in the
County Waste containers out of street view if possible.
Recyclables must be confined within the container
and not spill out to the ground or surrounding areas.
Sidewalk areas
Sidewalks must be maintained and kept in good
repair, void of weeds and grass, swept and clean of
debris and washed down occasionally.
Curbing must also be kept in good repair, void
of all grass and weeds out to where the curbing and
street intersect.
Yard areas
Lawns must be kept mowed to a height of 6”
or less and trimmed around buildings, fences, play
equipment, and the like.
General property areas should also be maintained
neatly to reflect the attractiveness of the surrounding
neighborhood and comply with the intent of the zoning district.
Remember, high standards are highly contagious.
– Michael Paulin, The Code Guy
(Rt. 183 & 443 Intersection)
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Additional cost on additional
parts may be required
See store for details. Not valid with
any other offers. Exp. 6/14/2016
– 22 –
New! Single-Stream Recycling Every Week
Town-wide collection of recyclables is EVERY
Thursday.
Ordinance 902 requires all residents to separate
the following materials from their regular household waste: aluminum cans, foil and plates; clear,
green and brown glass jars and bottles; plastic No. 1
through 7; steel cans; newspapers, corrugated cardboard, and mixed paper.
County Waste Recycling containers
have been provided to every household within the Borough for use in the
recycling program only. Please use
these containers, but they remain
the property of the borough. If you
require a container, contact Borough
Hall at 570-385-2841.
One container every week
Single-stream recycling via curbside pickup allows
permissible items to be placed in one container/
recycle bin without the need for separation. For those
residents who have large amounts of cardboard and
paper and/or still desire to utilize the recycling area,
it will remain in operation.
Residents need to adhere to a few common sense
rules, so Schuylkill Haven continues to be the cleanest
town around.
Use the following guidelines to prepare recyclables for pickup:
All newspapers, mixed paper, and cardboard
boxes must be made flat and secured.
• All steps must be taken to ensure paper, cardboard or plastic, etc. do not blow around to
neighboring properties or streets.
• Glass food and beverage containers are recyclable and include items such as glass soda,
beer, wine, liquor, ketchup or juice bottles,
and glass food containers. Generally
speaking, metal caps and lids
should be removed, but labels can
stay on.
• Glass items such as mirrors,
ceramic cups and plates, crystal,
clay flower pots, light bulbs, window glass, drinking glass and heatresistant ovenware are NOT recycled
by glass container plants and should
not be mixed in with container glass.
• Aluminum beverage cans should be rinsed out
and crushed. Steel cans need only be rinsed out;
leave labels on.
• Plastic soda bottles and milk jugs should also be
rinsed out and crushed.
After following these instructions, combine all
materials in one recycling container—sorting is not
necessary—and place curbside for weekly collection
on Thursday.
•
BUSINESS HOURS
MONDAY FRIDAY
7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
SATURDAY:
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
SUNDAY:
CLOSED
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– 23 –
Schuylkill Haven – A Touch of History . . . by Ellen Guertler
Scouting in Haven Can Be Traced Back More than 100 Years
Local Troop 1 Was the 13th Formed in Entire U.S.
Researched and written by Ellen Guertler
“Boy Scout” – a title held
in reverence by many because
of the boys who wear it.
Some of the roughest, toughest, ne’er-do-well
scamps joined a Boy Scout
troop as a joke … and in a
year were transformed into
different boys. These boys
were now dependable, honest, trustworthy, ready to
help wherever needed, and
Joey Ebling
good souls.
earned this patch
Boy Scouting has done a
at Hawk Mountain
lot for young boys. It takes
Boy Scout Camp.
them on retreats where
activities teach them to depend on one another and
to grow up to be good citizens.
Birth of the Boy Scouts in Haven
Schuylkill Haven’s Boy Scout program dates back
to 1912 when Rev. Clifford Hays, pastor of St.
Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Dock Street, founded the
first troop in town. Troop 1 was the 13th Boy Scout
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troop organized in the United States.
The evidence of Hays’ success, and seeing how
the young boys responded, interested other men to
become leaders. In 1916, when the Rev. Hays moved
to another church assignment, Carl Wilson became
the Scout Master. He was assisted by George Reider
and Allen Klahr.
Sometime in the mid 1920s, a second troop was
formed and was called Troop 3. When Mr. Wilson gave
up scouting, Reider became the Scout Master of Troop
1 and Klahr became Scout Master of Troop 3.
Soon, the Schuylkill County Council of Boy Scouts
of America was formed and the troops were renumbered. Troop 1 became Troop 121 and Troop 3
became 123. In 1934, a campaign was underway to
start new troops.
The county Council initiated the campaign and
Schuylkill Haven heard the call. Now there were
enough young lads responding to form five new
troops, but sponsorship was needed for each unit.
The greatest part of the sponsorship was to provide
a place where the troop could meet and it had to be a
place where the boys would not interfere with meetings, services, or other gatherings that might take
place at the same time. Many of the town churches
offered space on their first floor or in their basement.
Here is a list of the troops, their Scout Masters
and sponsor/place of meeting:
• Troop 121, George Kremer, sponsored by a
group of citizens
• Troop 122, George Keller, First Methodist Church
• Troop 123, Harry Detweiler, American Legion
• Troop 124, Lawrence Imboden, First Reformed
Church (now First United Church of Christ)
• Troop 125, Robert Graver, Christ Lutheran
Church (now Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran)
• Troop 126, Captain Herman R.D. Schwenk, Grace
Evangelical Congregational Church
• Troop 127, Paul Feeser, St. Matthew’s Lutheran
Church
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– 24 –
Schuylkill Haven – A Touch of History . . . by Ellen Guertler
The Boy Scouts held a Scout Rally in town on June
23, 1934 with five of the town’s troops participating.
There were demonstrations for the boys in knot tying,
fire building, tub tilting, uses for the Boy Scout kerchief, and First Aid.
These seven troops survived until 1937 when
Troops 124, 126, and 127 disbanded. In the early
1940s when America became involved in World War
II, the two oldest troops – 121 and 123 disappeared –
leaving troops 122 and 125 to be the only Schuylkill
Haven Boy Scout troops.
Troop 125 is only one left
Troop 125 is now the only Boy Scout Troop
that meets in Schuylkill Haven. It is sponsored by
Jerusalem Lutheran Church, 252 Dock Street.
This troops’ history begins at Christ Lutheran
Church, its original sponsor. The troop was chartered
on April 15, 1934 with Robert Graver as its Scout
Master and John Shumacher as the Assistant Scout
Master.
During the first year of the troop’s existence,
the fathers and their scout sons dug out the large
room in the church’s basement. They lined the walls
with log pieces and named their new meeting room
“The Cabin.” The troop continued to meet at Christ
Lutheran until about 1943 when it purchased a small
lot with a building on it adjacent to the Green Goose
playground. Troop 121, the former owner of the
building, was disbanding at that time.
The Blue Goose Cabin, as it was so named, was
used by Troop 125 until 1947. The building was originally moved to the Green Goose area from another
location. It was a substantial structure. Once moved it
was put into good condition and turned over to Troop
121, and then later Troop 125.
Though it seemed like a good location – amid
trees, spring-fed ponds, and shrubs – it was a heartache for the scouts because it was located off the
trodden path. The building fell victim to vandalism.
Often, doors and windows were broken, replaced, and
broken again and again. The building was ransacked
several times.
Troop 125 moved back to Christ Lutheran Church.
On February 19,1948, Fire Chief Claude A. Sausser
watched as the building was set on fire as a drill for
the Schuylkill Haven fire companies to respond to and
extinquish.
Troop 125 produced many Eagle Scouts
The scouts now met in Christ Lutheran Church’s
Youth Center and concentrated their learning and
study leading to scouting’s highest award, the Eagle
Scout award. In the first years of the troop, from
1939 –1978, John and Ronald Schumacher, Richard
Eiler, Fredrick Fellows, Joseph Blasiol, John Bayliff,
Eric Yoder and Mike Lado were some of the first Eagle
Scouts.
Four generations of Boy Scouts
Assistant Scout Master John Schumacher had a
long life in scouting. He started out as a member of
Troop 125 for seven years and later became a leader
for 25 years.
– Continued on Page 26
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IN 1959, Edward Bautsch, Jimmy Reber, William
Quinter, Lester Rhen, David Spitler, LaMarle Frehafer Jr., Edward Bittler, Allen Reber, and Dale
Schimmel spent the day making rough surveys
and plotting maps of the Schuylkill Mountain.
This was a new project introduced to the Scouts
of Troop 125 under the supervision of their
Scoutmaster LaMarle Frehafer.
24 HOUR SECURITY CAMERAS
Family owned and operated.
– 25 –
Schuylkill Haven – A Touch of History . . . by Ellen Guertler
– Continued from Page 25
Schumacher was a great example for his troop’s
members because he held the highest Eagle Award
with the three palms of gold, silver, and bronze
along with other prestigious scouting awards. He
was the third generation of the four in his family to
be involved in Boy Scouting. His grandfather, Frank
Schumacher, his father Roy, and his son Ronald were
all involved in Boy Scouts, all at the same time.
Past leaders of Troop 125 included John
Schumacher, 1935-1958; Lamar Freeman, 1959-1967;
Norman Knapp, 1967-1970; Gary Ellex, 1970-1973;
and the Rev. James Williams, 1974.
Changes come to Troop 125
In 1970, the troop’s number was changed.
Previously, Cub Scout packs were assigned 3-digit
numbers beginning with a six; Boy Scout troops had
numbers beginning with a one. To make it easier
when a youngster “Crossed Over” from Cub Scout to
Boy Scout, the Boy Scout troops were now assigned a
number beginning with six.
At this time the regional Daniel Boone Council
of Berks County merged with the Hawk Mountain
Council of Schuylkill County with all troops assigned
new numbers. Troop 125 would now be known as
Troop 625.
Today, Troop 625 is run individually as all others
were in the past. Jerusalem Church, the former Christ
THREE GENERATIONS of the Schumacher Family are shown, from left, Ronald with his father
John, Christ Lutheran Church pastor E. Richard
Acker, and John’s father Roy.
Lutheran Church, is still its sponsor. It is a troop,
always on the go, with numerous projects of all kinds
and members encouraged to earn merit badges in a
variety of life skills.
This troop’s efforts and accomplishments can be
seen throughout the Schuylkill Haven area. There is
Tyler Weller’s bridge at Island Recreation Park; his
brother Justin’s bridge at Stoyer’s Dam; and Mike
Pot’s work on the Union Cemetery.
These projects are conceived and completed as
the scouts’ way to give back to the community where
they live and that has provided them support and
learning. Future projects include the landscaping of
an area at Jerusalem Church and Will Koch’s landscaping at the Liberty Hose Company where he is a
member.
Structure of scout meetings
At Boy Scout meetings, every scout has a job … a
Chaplin says the prayer, the Scribe takes attendance,
and the Quartermaster readies equipment needed for
the meeting. The Historian records the troop’s activities in a book. Most all of the troop responsibilities
can be given to any of the boys; but, ones like the
Bugler must be given to a boy who plays trumpet and
knows the techniques of playing a brass instrument.
Today, there is a Parents’ Committee, a valuable asset to the troop, whose members help with
fundraising and as chaperons. Present troop leaders are Joel Koch, Scout Master, with Kevin Potts,
Kyle Schaeffer, Jason Hughes, and Chris Ebling as
Assistant Scout Masters.
Lots of pride in Haven’s Troop 625
This is a troop that has graduated 78 boys as
Eagle Scouts since 1939. Boys who are interested in
becoming an Eagle Scout must have all their work finished before their 18th birthday, complete a project
book, and earn a minimum of 21 merit badges previ– 26 –
Schuylkill Haven – A Touch of History . . . by Ellen Guertler
ously. Thirteen specific badges are required and eight
more are at the scout’s choosing from 135 subjects
covering a wide range of interests, such as cooking
and textiles, swimming and hiking, camping and history … the list is nearly endless.
In the past three years, Troop 625 has produced
11 Eagle Scouts. Presently, seven more are in the
works. Joey Ebling already has his Bronze Feather
and, at 16 years (the youngest allowed age), is ready
to begin his work to become an Eagle Scout. Once
obtained, the scout can begin assuming leadership
roles in his troop, having exhibited the skills and preparedness to do just about anything at any time.
Illustrating the Boy Scout motto to always “be
prepared,” is an instance a few years ago when the
troop was enjoying an outing to a wooded area near
Summit Station. The boys were roasting potatoes over
a campfire. Eagle Scout Mike Potts went to check on
the younger boys when his younger brother, Ryan,
came at him and clawed him.
Ryan had hot food lodged in his throat and was
struggling to breathe. Using his First Aid badge skills,
Mike used the “Heimlich maneuver” on Ryan but the
food did not move. Mike bent his brother over at he
waist and used other methods … and out came the
food. Ryan, though visibly shaken, only suffered a
sore throat. Mike was awarded the Boy Scouts of
America Medal of Merit for the saving of his brother
Ryan’s life.
Special needs Boy Scouts
There is also a Boy Scout program tailored for the
“special needs” scout, allowing such Cub Scouts to
“cross over” to a Boy Scout later, at age 11 or12, and
allowing to remain in scouting until age 21 years of
age.
A worthy program for boys
Scouting does much for a boy. Eagle Scout Justin
Weller went into the Armed Services and did not start
at the bottom rung because he was an Eagle Scout.
Scouting takes young boys who have no desire for
a purpose in life, could become derelicts and eventually criminals, and turns them around into young men
who know they have worth. They take what scouting
has taught them and use it as their model.
The next time you see one of 625’s Scout Masters,
thank them for their interest in Boy Scouting and the
work they do for the good of the boys, the town and
the nation.
REFERENCES: 225 Years 1750-1975 Schuylkill
Haven; THE CALL, May 25, 1934, Boy Scout Rally
Held Here; February 21, 1948; THE CALL –Article on
Michael Potts’ Heroic Deed-date unknown.
Interview with Chris Ebling, Assistant Scout Master
Troop #625
PHOTO CREDITS: Scout Patch – Joey Ebling; THE
CALL, Father and Son Receive Award, Feb. 18, 1948;
Scouts Plot Map of Schuylkill Mountain, April 30, 1959.
SOUTH SCHUYLKILL
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– 27 –
PRSRT STD
U.S. Postage
PAID
Pottsville PA
17901
Permit No. 65
BOROUGH OF SCHUYLKILL HAVEN
333 Center Avenue
Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
Official Matter
of Schuylkill Haven Borough
Day
l
a
i
r
Memoe/Ser vice
Parad ay 30
M
ECRWSS Postal Customer
Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
Schuylkill Haven Night
at the Philadelphia Phillies
Phillies vs. New York Mets
Sat., July 16 – 7:05 p.m. start – $80 / Ticket
Ticket includes: Bus, ticket to game, tailgate party at
the ballpark with live music, t-shirt and prize giveaways!
LUCKY DRAWING WINNER – one from the group will throw the first pitch
and get a tour of the clubhouse for up to four people.
Proceeds Benefit Island Improvements
✄
Name:
Ticke
Deadlint
June 1 e
Address:
Phone Number:
Number of Tickets:
Mail To: Schuylkill Haven Borough Hall
333 Center Avenue
Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
Cell Phone:
Indicate
T-Shirt size
And person‛s
full
name for
MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:
Schuylkill Haven Island Committee, Inc. each ticket
ordered
@$80 each =
– 28 –