2017 community progress book - chamber of commercetamaqua.net/images/2017report_web2.pdf · linda...
TRANSCRIPT
2017 Community Progress Book
Sunset over town.
Photo courtesy Donald R. Serfass
CONGRATULATIONS!
PAUL DODSON
2017 Joseph M. Plasko Citizenship Award ~and~
MELANIE AND JOHN ROSS
Tamaqua Station Restaurant
2017 Business People of the Year
The Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce
is honored to shine a light on
your achievements and
outstanding dedication
to the community.
Many thanks for your
continued support of the
Tamaqua area and for
leading by example!
2017 JOSEPH M. PLASKO
CITIZENSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT
PAUL DODSON
Paul Dodson was a teacher in the Tamaqua school district for more
than 40 years and instrumental in establishing Tamaqua’s wrestling
program. He has since spent his time coordinating Tamaqua’s
annual Hunger Walk which raises awareness, food, and money for
food banks in Tamaqua. He also finds time to provide transporta-
tion to those in need for doctor appointments and cancer
treatments. He has taken on leadership positions at Bethany
Evangelical Church and even became program director of the
Tamaqua YMCA in the 1960s.
As written on one of his nomination forms, “Paul is a wonderful
example of a committed member of this community. He always
has, and still strives to project a positive example to everyone he
interacts with and continues to inspire community involvement in
others.”
Congratulations and well deserved!
Photo courtesy
Terry Ahner
Melanie and John Ross opened the Tamaqua Station Restaurant in
April 2016, and have since established an outstanding reputation
for both themselves and the business. Previously co-owners of
Madeline’s restaurant in Orwigsburg, they bring many years of
experience to the table. They participate in local events, donate to
local organizations, and are sponsors of one of the Tamaqua Has
Heart installations.
When a group of volunteers were cleaning up and repainting the
train cars that sit outside the restaurant, John and Melanie fed
them. When they were asked to donate to the Tamaqua Spirit of
Christmas Mistletoe Reception, they brought delicious desserts and
hors d’oeuvres and stayed to greet the guests.
In addition to providing a casual fine dining establishment in our
community, John and Melanie are committed to bringing positive
changes and new beginnings to our town. Well done!
2017 TAMAQUA CHAMBER
BUSINESS PEOPLE OF THE YEAR
MELANIE AND JOHN ROSS
A MESSAGE FROM
LINDA MARCHALK, CHAMBER PRESIDENT
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to take this opportunity to
tell you about some of the exciting projects we have planned for 2017. Our
Board of Directors is enthusiastically working to bring you some of the best
and most informative mixers, breakfast seminars, fundraisers, summer con-
certs and other great events as part of our mission to support member busi-
nesses, individuals and organizations by enhancing the local economy and
quality of life for all of us.
With a theme this year of Hearts & Heroes, the Chamber is excited to part-
ner with, and work together with, other local organizations for the common
goal of building a thriving and successful community. We are all committed
to making the Chamber a valuable source of networking and support for our
community’s businesses. We are extremely fortunate to live, work and shop
in a community with deep roots in commerce, social activities, culture and
innovative thinking.
The Chamber is deeply committed to making your membership enjoyable,
educational, rewarding and, perhaps most importantly, one that delivers
value to you. We look forward to seeing you at one of our many events this
year.
Sign up to receive our weekly newsletter, The Chamber Chatters, ‘like’ and
‘follow’ our Facebook page, and share your events or via email at
We are always ready to support our member businesses and organizations!!
Linda L. Marchalk, Executive Board of Directors President 2017 *Schuylkill County Treasurer *Vice President of Northeast Edge Abstract, LLC
OUR MISSION The Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce
is a member-based organization dedicated to promoting and strengthening
the economic, industrial, professional, cultural and civic welfare
throughout the Tamaqua Area and managing
Tamaqua's Main Street Program.
Serving our members for over sixty years, we continue to provide the services and opportunities that create economic growth and sta-
bility, while improving the quality of life throughout the Tamaqua area.
Our partnerships with other economic and community development organizations in the region provide area
businesses and residents with a strong, unified commitment to a brighter future.
Our past has forged the way to the present
WE MOVED!
The Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce began a new chapter last April when the office moved down the street to 37 West Broad, Suite 101. Many thanks to Brian Seitz and his crew from Seitz Brothers, Gar Thomas, Ann Ostergaard, and Ben Turrano for helping clean out the old office and move everything into the new office.
Left: Ben Turrano, 2016 Chamber President, rolls a desk down Broad Street during the move.
TAMAQUA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2016 ANNUAL COMMUNITY DINNER
Kyle Whitley, the
2016 Joseph M.
Plasko Citizen of the
Year, received his
award from 2016
Chamber of
Commerce
President,
Ben Turrano.
Brian Seitz, 2016
Business Person of
the Year is
congratulated by
Schuylkill County
Commissioner
George Halcovage
with Kyle Whitley
and Ben Turrano
looking on.
Senator Dave Argall
saying a few words
at the annual dinner
along with
Representative
Jerry Knowles and
Commissioner
George Halcovage
(left).
Photos courtesy
Manda Smarr.
In October of 2016, the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce
together with WMGH and the Tamaqua Community Art Center held
its very first Business
Expo meant to showcase
local businesses and
services. Chamber Board
member, Kim Noel, spear-
headed the organization of
the event, gathering more
than 20 businesses and
organizations who set up
in the Art Center gallery.
Kim also provided live inter-
views on WMGH throughout
the night, as well as a
multitude of advertising on
air in the weeks leading up
to the expo. The general
public was invited in to
take a look around, talk to
the representatives, and
gather information from all
the participants. The first
Tamaqua Has Heart
installation was also on site
for anyone to add their
handprint to it.
BUSINESS EXPO
TAMAQUA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2017 BOARD MEMBERS
Above: 2017 Executive Board, from left: Ben Turrano, Vice Presi-
dent, Ann Ostergaard, Secretary, Linda Marchalk, President, Rich
Shupp, Treasurer. Mary Linkevich has since assumed the position of
Secretary.
Below: 2017 Board Members, back row from left: Jennifer Drake,
Susan Fegley, Brittany Giannini, Larissa Verta, Mary Linkevich,
Stephen Seach. Front row, from left: Rich Shipp, Ann Ostergaard,
Ben Turrano, Linda Marchalk. Not pictured: Serge Chrush, Jody
Kellner, Jack Kulp, Kim Noel, Manda Smarr, Rich Stianche, Sharon
Whispell, Steve Gintz.
Left: 2016 Chamber Vice
President, Rich Shupp,
represented the Chamber at
the Sixth Annual Advent
Breakfast held at Zion
Evangelical Lutheran Church.
The event was sponsored by
the Tamaqua Area Faith
Fellowship
Network and the
Tamaqua Area
Community
Partnership.
M & I DELI (570)668-4669
535 N. Railroad | Tamaqua PA
Homemade Cooking
Hoagies—Soups—Salads—Sandwiches—Platters
Halushki—Halupki—Desserts
Many of your ethnic favorites!
Party trays, Sympathy trays,
Fundraisers and catering for all occasions!
JOSEPH M. PLASKO CITIZENSHIP
AWARD WINNERS
1964 through 1990
1964 Mrs. Ella Ray Mundy (Deceased) 1965 Gordon Pfeil (Deceased)
1966 Mrs. Ruth Kropp (Deceased) 1967 George Seligman (Deceased)
1968 Rev. M. E. Detterline (Deceased)
1969 A. A. “Brig” Young (Deceased)
1970 Anthony J. Maff (Deceased) 1971 Willis R. Parnell (Deceased)
1972 Paul L Wagner (Deceased) 1973 Oscar S. Werley, Jr. (Deceased)
1974 Dr. Harry W. Bailey (Deceased) 1975 John Lindemann (Deceased)
1976 Jacob Rimbach (Deceased) 1977 William G. Guy (Deceased)
1978 ` Chester A. Hoffman (Deceased) 1979 E. Franklin Griffiths (Deceased)
1980 Charles “Sam Ghares (Deceased)
1981 William A. Moser (Deceased)
1982` Mrs. Elizabeth Purnell (Deceased) 1983 Rev. F. Peter Muhr
1984 Robert J. Pitts 1985 Dr. Mary Malishaucki (Deceased)
1986 Raymond Ripko (Deceased) 1987 John Kellner (Deceased)
1988 Dorothy “Tillie” Ghares (Deceased) 1989 William H. Fegley, Sr. (Deceased)
1990 Linda J. Yulanavage
Thank you!
Our community continues to grow and prosper
because of your volunteerism and
years of tireless dedication
to the Tamaqua area and its citizens.
JOSEPH M. PLASKO CITIZENSHIP
AWARD WINNERS
1991 through 2016
1991 George Wenzel (Deceased) 1992 Junior Zehner (Deceased)
1993 Constantine “Gus” Depos (Deceased) 1994 Sheldon Shafer
1995 Ruth Essington
1996 Nicholas J. Young (Deceased) 1997 Paul Scherer (Deceased)
1998 Floyd Zimmerman 1999 Herman Lutz (Deceased)
2000 Dr. H. Bruce Geiger
2001 Robert Evans (Deceased) 2002 Dale Freudenberger
2003 Patricia Freeh-Stefanek 2004 Judy Hoppes
2005 Curtis J. Bailey 2006 Sally Ann Neumann (Deceased)
2007 Jerome P. Knowles 2008 Todd Miller
2009 Randy Gormley
2010 Emerson Musser
2011 Andrew J. Leibenguth 2012 Fran Stahl
2013 Matt Hope 2014 Tom Banditelli, Sr.
2015 Amanda Woodring 2016 Kyle Whitley
Thank you!
Our community continues to grow and prosper
because of your volunteerism and
years of tireless dedication
to the Tamaqua area and its citizens.
TAMAQUA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
“MAKE THE CONNECTION”
JOIN THE CHAMBER TODAY! We are dedicated to provide member-focused programs and services
to help you improve your bottom line
EXCLUSIVE MEMBERS-ONLY REFERRALS
The Tamaqua Chamber of Commerce exclusively refers
its members.
MEMBER-2-MEMBER DISCOUNT PROGRAM As a member, you can offer other members special incentives and
discounts. You design the offer, we promote it other members.
Great way to expand your business customer base and network!
WEEKLY ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER
Every Friday, we provide an email (to both members and
non-members) containing news, specials and upcoming events
from our members.
EMAIL UPDATES ON BUSINESS ISSUES The Chamber provides valuable information via email to
our members on important events/issues
that could affect your bottom line.
FACEBOOK UPDATES The Chamber staff maintains and posts regular updates about our
member’s events and special business promotions to our Tamaqua
Chamber FaceBook page. In addition, we provide valuable
information about business seminars, and links to important
business-related topics and issues.
CONFERENCE ROOM SPACE The Chamber's comfortable conference room
is always available to our members at no charge.
(Call ahead to schedule your next meeting/interview here)
NETWORKING/SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES The Tamaqua Chamber offers you and your staff many
opportunities to build your business network through:
Mixers - some just social, others with informational programs
Summer Concert Series
Business Expo
Annual Chamber Community Dinner
Annual Community Progress Report
Seminars and workshops to keep you informed on issues
that can affect your business
MEMBER REFERRAL INCENTIVES Contact your suppliers and other businesses and encourage them
to take advantage of membership in the Tamaqua Chamber .
BUSINESS MAILING LIST/LABELS
Available exclusively to our members, a copy of our business list,
in digital, mailing label, or CD form -
providing you with access to over 300 mailing addresses.
MAILING AND FAX SERVICES
Our Chamber staff provide our members with
professional mailing services -
from the simple to the complex, at an affordable price.*
Fax services are available to our members*
*Exclusive Member Only Rates Apply*
**Look for the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce on FaceBook
Kyle Whitley, the 2016
Joseph M. Plasko
Citizen of the Year,
continues making an
impact in the
community in a variety
of ways. Shown here
with a new menu board
he made for the
Tamaqua Station
Restaurant, Kyle’s
generosity of time and
talents are much
appreciated.
Photo courtesy
Tamaqua Station
Restaurant.
Chamber booklet photo contributor Donnie Serfass, left, and Kyle
Whitley, right, pose with the first heart to kick off the Tamaqua Has
Heart program.
Special thanks to
Petal Pushers Floral Company
for providing a gorgeous
table centerpiece for tonight’s dinner.
Hours: Monday - Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
2017 Officers/Board of Directors
Linda Marchalk, President
Ben Turrano, Vice President
Mary Linkevich, Secretary
Rich Shupp, Treasurer
Serge Chrush
Jennifer Drake
Brittany Giannini
Steve Gintz
Susan Fegley
Richard Hadesty, Jr.
Jody Kellner
Jack Kulp
Kim Noel
Ann Ostergaard
Stephen Seach
Brian Seitz
Manda Smarr
Rich Stianche
Larissa Verta
Major Sharon Whispell
Administrative Assistant,
Vanessa Gerhard
Left and below:
Chamber member
Zion Evangelical Lutheran
Church members serve
free meals on
New Year’s Day.
DID YOU KNOW?
Chris Fulmer, born in Tamaqua
in 1858, played catcher for the
Washington Nationals and the
Baltimore Orioles. Here's his
1887 baseball card.
Before (above): An empty lot where a gas station once stood in
2000. In 2001, workers create raised flower beds and reserve a large
center ring to host a tall Victorian fountain as work moves forward on
the rebirth of historic Tamaqua Depot Square Park.
After (below): 15 years later, a lovely August morning in Depot
Square. Photos and text courtesy Donald R Serfass.
CONGRATULATES
PAUL DODSON
2017 JOSEPH M. PLASKO
CITIZENSHIP AWARD
WINNER
Grand Prize Winner of the 2016 Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce
Trout Derby, John Malasavage and grandson with a nice bass caught in the
1000 Islands, St. Lawrence River, Canada. Grand prize donated by Caiger’s
Resort, 1000 Islands and Tom Banditelli, Sr. Additional 2016 derby winners
were John Filer, Tamaqua and Justin Moyer, Brockton
ANNUAL CHAMBER TROUT DERBY
Celebrating our 53RD year!
Live The Green Dot: Schuylkill.
Ending personal violence,
one green dot at a time.
Local Office:
BEC Office, LCCC Scheller Center, High St.
Tamaqua
570-668-1192 or 570-656-5991
MCNEALIS
AGENCY
Chamber member
McNealis Agency
celebrated their
grand opening at
their new location
in Hometown in
2016. You can
stop in to see
them at 220
Claremont Ave at
the Hometown
Village Square.
BLUE LIZARD VINEYARD AND WINERY
Chamber member Blue Lizard Vineyard & Winery celebrated their
grand opening in 2016. Find them at 139 Ash Circle in Andreas.
JAMIE GREENZWEIG INSURANCE AGENCY
Chamber member Jamie Greenzweig Insurance Agency celebrated
their grand opening at 1130 East Broad Street in 2016.
ST. LUKE’S CARE NOW—WEST PENN
Chamber member St. Luke’s celebrated the grand opening of the
West Penn location in 2016. Find them at 2092 West Penn Pike.
Kimberly S. Noel, CSA, BA, President
Promotional items for all your business needs
Care management, bookkeeping, and Power of Attorney services for seniors.
We are delighted to support the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce.
Congrats to the Citizen and Business People of the Year!
HUNGER WALK TAMAQUA
The Tamaqua Area Faith Fellowship Network has held a Hunger Weekend
for the past 3 years with the purpose of collecting food and money to help
people in need. The 2017 Joseph M Plasko Citizenship Award Winner, Paul
Dodson, has been an integral part of this effort. In 2016, the organization
was able to
distribute 83
boxes of food and
$6300 equally to
the food banks at
the Tamaqua
Salvation Army,
Trinity Church of
Christ, and the
Primitive
Methodist Church.
Left: An Empty Bowl Pottery Making
event was held at the Tamaqua Commu-
nity Art Center with proceeds benefitting
Hunger Weekend.
Below: Hunger Walk participants were
encouraged to collect money from
sponsors for donation to the
Hunger Weekend.
This year’s Hunger
Weekend is May 5,
6, and 7 with the
Hunger Walk on
May 7. Contact
Paul Dodson for
more information.
SHOP SMALL
SATURDAY
NOV 26, 2016
The Tamaqua Area
Chamber of Commerce
acquired Shop Small
Saturday signs, bags,
pens, stickers, etc. for
any members who wanted
them. Shown at left is the
Shop Small Saturday
banner hung at a pop-up
shop coordinated by
Chamber members Tink’s
Antiques and the
Tamaqua Community Art
Center. Save the date for
Shop Small Saturday on
Nov 25, 2017
A view to the west looking toward South Railroad St showing
Chamber members The Tamaqua Public Library, Tink’s Antiques,
and M&S Hardware. Photo courtesy Donald R. Serfass.
CONGRATULATIONS!
Citizenship Award Winner
Paul Dodson
And
Tamaqua Area Business
People of the Year
Melanie and John Ross
from
NATIONAL
NIGHT OUT IN
TAMAQUA
Chamber member
LCCC set up with
academic information
in Depot Square
during Tamaqua’s
National Night Out
celebration.
Shown here, 2017
Chamber Board
Member, Larissa Verta
(left) and LCCC
colleague
Karen Tharp.
Re-Elect Christine A. Holman
Schuylkill County District Attorney
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT IN TAMAQUA
Chamber member Schuylkill County District Attorney Christine
Holman greets future voters in Depot Square Park in Tamaqua.
Chamber member Companion Animal Hospital of
Tamaqua cares for dogs in the SCI Frackville
D.A.W.G.S. program. Dogs Achieving Wellness and
Good Structure is a training program by inmates
teaching the dogs basic obedience.
Photo courtesy Companion Animal Hospital
of Tamaqua.
A lovely Fall view of Tuscarora Lake.
Photo courtesy Donald Serfass.
Fighting for our Conservative Values
Because Jerry and Lorraine know
what’s important to us—Our families and their future.
State Representative
Jerry Knowles Conservative Leadership, Putting Taxpayers First
Paid for by the I’m for Knowles Committee
Jerry and Lorraine Knowles with their grandchildren
Below: Rep. Knowles pictured here with Olivia Morrison,
who is from Hometown, and has been serving as an intern
with House Archives. Photo courtesy Rep. Knowles.
Tamaqua Historical Society
Museum, Annex, and Gallery
114-118 West Broad St. Tamaqua
Proudly preserving the history of the greater Tamaqua area!
Like us
on Facebook
to see our latest
Schedule
of Hours.
Also open
anytime by
appointment by calling
610-597-
6722.
The old National Bank vault
shown inside the museum.
The bank’s clock was also
restored and now hangs
outside the building.
Interior of the new museum featuring exhibits of the town’s newspapers,
coal mining history, wildlife, fire fighting, industry, and much more.
An exhibit featuring Tamaqua Area School District sports and band
memorabilia from years past.
TAMAQUA.NET
Check out the new and improved Tamaqua Area Chamber of
Commerce web site: www.tamaqua.net.
You can find recent issues of the weekly newsletter Chamber
Chatters, a list of members, forms, Chamber news, links to area
event calendars including the Tamaqua Community Art Center and
Schuylkill County Visitors Bureau, along with a digital copy
of this book.
Law Offices of
Gary D. Marchalk, LLC 204 East Broad Street
Tamaqua, PA 18252
570-668-5321
www.marchalklaw.com
Gary D. Marchalk, Esquire
Stephanie Webb, Esquire
A general practice law office handling
Family Law * Divorce * Custody
Support * Wills/Estates/Trusts
Real Estate * Landlord/Tenant
Corporate Law * Taxation * DUI
Criminal Defense * Accident Cases
www.northeastedgeassociates.com
204 East Broad Street
Tamaqua, PA 18252
570-668-5381
950 East Main Street, Suite 106
Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
570-385-6875
218 South Lehigh Street
Frackville, PA 17931
570-874-1402
Handling real estate closings throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
The various Edge companies, which include offices in Berks, Lancaster,
Lebanon, Montgomery and Chester counties.
Chamber
member,
Revive
Community
Fellowship hosted
a candy bar bingo
at the Tamaqua
Community Art
Center.
Above: 2017
Chamber
Board
Member,
Steve Gintz,
welcomed the
sugar-craving
crowd.
The Tamaqua Area Community Partnership welcomed Carol
Obando Derstine, PPL Electric Utilities’ Regional Affairs Director,
who presented a check from PPL Corporation for $20,000 to support the
Capital Campaign of the Tamaqua Area Community Partnership.
The investment is the final portion of a $50,000 pledge
made during the 2013 campaign.
LEADERCAST LIVE
Tamaqua participated in Leadercast Live, the largest one-day leadership
event in the world where local people heard from some of the most
recognized leaders in the world simultaneously with more than 100,000
other leaders from around the world. In 2016, more than 100 people
attended Leadercast Tamaqua which also featured local speakers, Bill
Moyer President of St. Luke’s Hospital Miners Campus, Marlyn Kissner of
the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, and Patrick Reilley,
President of Mauch Chunk Trust Company.
Experience Leadercast in Tamaqua. Save the date for this year’s Leadercast
on May 5, 2017 at the Tamaqua Community Art Center, 125 Pine St.
Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.
New Location Opening Soon in Trexlertown!
Blue Lizard Vineyard & Winery | 139 Ash Circle | Andreas, PA 18211
Phone: (570) 527-0925 | E-mail: [email protected]
www.bluelizardwinery.com
Chamber Member Blue Lizard Vineyard &
Winery hosts a variety of events
throughout the year including a wine
and dessert pairing with fellow Chamber
Member Momma C’s Bakery (left), and
a wine chiller making event at the
Clayworks Pottery Studio in the
Tamaqua Community Art Center
(below).
Chamber Board Member, Jack Kulp (right), performs with
Sterling Koch (left) as the Crossroads Duo.
Seen here at the Blue Lizard Vineyard & Winery.
Tamaqua Has Heart
visited St. Jerome
Regional School to add
students’ hand prints to
the community heart
project. Look for the
hearts to be displayed
throughout the
downtown this summer.
TAMAQUA AREA
COMMUNITY
YARD SALE
The Tamaqua Area Chamber
of Commerce hosts an
annual community yard sale
offering prime selling spots
along Broad Street as well as
providing a map for residents
having sales at their homes
throughout the
Tamaqua Area.
Spring has sprung along Railroad St.
Photo courtesy Donald R. Serfass.
HOMETOWN HEROES BANNER PROGRAM
NEW 2017 BANNER PROGRAM!
ORDER
YOURS
TODAY!
Following the popularity of the 2013 banner program, The
Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce announced a new banner
program for 2017. We are still accepting orders for new banners.
The new Hometown Heroes program is intended to honor any
local hometown hero who has provided beneficial service to the
Tamaqua area. These heroes may include first responders,
organization volunteers, civic leaders, active military, veterans,
and may be living or deceased.
Banners will be displayed on available poles throughout downtown
Tamaqua. Banners are constructed of heavy weight, outdoor vinyl
with slits to minimize wind damage. We cannot guarantee a
specific location for placement of any banner. The banners will be
displayed for a minimum of one (1) year. Banners may be rotated
during that time period, if necessary.
Cost per banner: $200, includes a $25 donation to various local
fire companies.
Cash, check, or credit accepted. Checks should be payable to
Tamaqua Chamber of Commerce.
Target date for banner installation: May 2017
Target date for banner removal: May 2019
Photo requirements: Digital image preferred as AI, EPS, PSD, PDF,
WMF, DOC, PUB, TIF, BMP, JPG, or GIF. Digital file should be less
than 5 MB. Hard copy photo also accepted.
Completed and signed photo release form required with
submission of photo.
Special thanks to the Tamaqua Borough for their assistance in
installing the new banners and taking down the previous
program’s banners.
Forms are available on the Chamber’s web site: tamaqua.net, or
at the Chamber office during business hours.
HOMETOWN HEROES BANNER PROGRAM
With over 40 years of semiconductor industry experience as
Air Products Electronic Materials, Versum Materials is one
of the most highly regarded electronics supply manufactur-
ers. Our next-generation technology of CMP slurries, ultra-
thin dielectric and metal film precursors, formulated cleans,
and etching products are innovative and boost efficiency.
We help the biggest tech companies around the world
stretch the boundaries of science and technology. We
deliver specialty expertise, inclusive innovation and valued
products and solutions that bring cutting-edge innovation
to market faster, easier and more reliably than ever before.
In the 1960s, Air Products recognized that many of its
products, like oxygen and hydrogen, were building-block
chemicals, so it diversified into process intermediate
chemicals. The company expanded its chemical business
into the electronics market in the 1970s and launched a
number of game-changing technologies along the way.
That spirit of relentless, enthusiastic innovation continues
to drive everything we do at Versum Materials today.
357 Marian Ave
Hometown PA 18252
versummaterials.com
Majestic House Apartments
NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
62 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER OR DISABLED
201 E BROAD ST, TAMAQUA | STOP IN OR CALL 570.668.6372
MON THRU FRI 8:30AM TO 4:30PM
NOW WITH FREE CABLE!
APARTMENTS INCLUDE:
RANGE-REFRIGERATOR-GARBAGE DISPOSAL-WALL-TO-WALL
CARPETING-BATHROOM/SHOWER HANDRAILS-SMOKE
DETECTORS-HEAT AND AIR CONDITIONING INCLUDED-
ELECTRIC INCLUDED-EMERGENCY PULL CORDS
AND MUCH MORE!
Must meet eligibility requirements.
The combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability makes us
one of the most luxurious senior residences in the Tamaqua Area.
Winter horse-drawn carriage rides in the Lewistown Valley.
Photo courtesy Donald R. Serfass.
NATIONAL
NIGHT OUT IN
TAMAQUA
Chamber member
Independent Living
Services set up a table
with information in
Depot Square
during Tamaqua’s
National Night Out
celebration.
Shown here, 2017
Chamber Board
Member, Jennifer
Drake.
80s dance party at the Tamaqua YMCA sponsored by Chamber
Member Jamie Greenzweig Insurance Agency with entertainment
provided by Chamber Member Ann Marie Calabrese, The ‘80s Guru.
Fireworks lit up Tamaqua’s skies in 2016 once again for the annual
National Night Out celebration in August. The fireworks were thanks
to the generosity of our residents for donating thousands of dollars
over several months. Photo courtesy Donald Serfass.
Above: Staff with Mauch Chunk Trust including new Chamber
Board Member, Brittany Giannini (second from right), are shown
clowning around during their Annual Community Summer
Festival outside their branch location in West Penn.
The Tamaqua Borough is proud to serve more than 7,100 residents and to welcome businesses and visitors to the community. A broad mix of borough staff work at many levels to support the community: by providing and servicing utility customers, responding to public complaints and safety concerns, by administering projects and programs, and responding to and enforcing quality of life and other code violations.
Some highlights over the past year included:
Replaced antiquated software with a new utility billing system
Added an online billing option for customers
Launched its first website, www.tamaquaborough.com (below)
Gained 1,500 followers on Facebook
Hired two full-time police officers
Purchase an SUV for police use
Demolished two properties at the base of stadium hill on Lehigh Street
Installed an osprey platform at Owl Creek Recreation Area, courtesy of PPL (right)
Through the generosity of the J.E. Morgan Foundation, provided discount $10 season passes to the H.D. Buehler Memorial Pool
Honored Lansford season pass rates for residents of Coaldale, Lansford, Nesquehoning, and Summit Hill
Community Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ)
Tamaqua is the first and only borough in the state to receive the coveted Community Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) designation, and is one of just three desig-nated zones overall. The CRIZ program works by reinvesting any positive increment in tax revenues within the zone and allowing a local CRIZ Authority to invest in approved projects that will boost economic impact. In 2016, the CRIZ Authority received $210,000 and used a portion to offset the acquisition of the former Tire Pros building, which will be rehabilitated
for a multi-level, multi-use space. Historic photo of the building shown here courtesy Tamaqua Historical Society.
Looking ahead
The borough intends to expand economic growth through the CRIZ program, and also to complete a streetscape project featuring decorative lighting on the Route 309 bridge on the south side town, and will complete the purchase of its streetlights, upgrading to cost-effective LED bulbs, for long-term cost savings.
To learn more about the borough, or for questions, please call us at 570-668-0300 or email [email protected].
Tamaqua Chief of Police Rick Weaver welcomes new full-time police officer
Christian DeAngelo to the borough.
Volunteers with the Tamaqua Salvation Army served up a free
Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving Day in Tamaqua.
The Tamaqua Area Chamber
of Commerce would like to thank
Donald Serfass for the use of his photos for this
booklet and cover. You always capture the best
of our community! Happy retirement to you!
We also thank Andrew Leibenguth, Mary Linkevich,
Tamaqua Historical Society, Safer Streets for
Tamaqua’s Little Feet, LCCC, The Spirit of Christmas
Committee, The Tamaqua Station Restaurant, Tamaqua
Community Art Center, Manda Smarr, and Kyle Whitley
for the use of their photos.
We appreciate everyone’s help!
Tamaqua Accounting
& Tax Associates, LLC
204 East Broad Street
Tamaqua PA 18252
570-668-5321
Preparing Individual and
Business Tax Returns
Gary D. Marchalk, Esquire
Serge Chrush
Jeffrey P. Bowe trading as
Bowe, Lisella, & Bowe
Legal practice concentrating in
estate planning and estate administration
109 West Broad Street | Tamaqua, PA 18252
Phone: 570-668-1241
www.blblawyers.com
Pictured above is Tamaqua Police officer, Jeremy Sborz, playing a
game of basketball with Tamaqua youth in February 2017 at the
South Ward Playground. Photo courtesy of Jenna Kachelries.
Whether it’s embracing the homeless, uplifting the abused or abandoned, training and mentoring the disadvantaged, providing character
building programs for youth, or assisting the displaced or elderly, The Salvation Army's goal remains the same:
serving the most people, meeting the most needs, Doing the Most Good!
105 West Broad Street
Tamaqua, PA 18252
570-668-0410
Above: Mayor Christian Morrison and Tamaqua Salvation Army
Major Whispell read a proclamation for the national observance of
Back to Church Sunday in September 2016. The day of observance
was sponsored locally by the Tamaqua Area Faith and Fellowship
Network.
In April 2016, Chamber member PAMKAKES moved into 32 West
Broad St, the former Bittner’s General Store, from their previous
location in the Hometown Village Square. In business since 2007
with a change of ownership in
2014 to Aimee Dotson, a
former employee,
PAMKAKES has
established a reputation
for artistic, creative, and
beautiful cakes for any
occasion as well as such
tasty treats as French
macarons, cannoli, and a
variety of cookies and cup-
cakes. Book a birthday party
on site, or sign up for an
instructional class.
NEW IN TOWN
Founded in 1953
Located in Lewistown Valley
416 Valley Road
Tamaqua, PA 18252
(570)668-2089 (800)247-7300
**All natural**
No synthetic herbicides or pesticides
No animal by-products
Products available at the
Hometown Farmer’s Market
Wednesdays 8 am to 8 pm
www.kochsturkey.com
105 West Broad St, Suite 200
Tamaqua PA 18252
Central Office: 216 S McAllister St | Bellefonte PA 16823 | 570-225-5514
Western Office: 225 Crowe Ave | PO Box 278 | Mars PA 16046 | 724-687-7880
Above: Tamaqua Public Library accepts a donation from
PPL Electric Utilities.
HEISLER’S DAIRY BAR
743 CATAWISSA ROAD TAMAQUA
570-668-3399
HOMEMADE COUNTRY FRESH ICE CREAM HOT FOOD FROM OUR GRILL
MINI GOLF DRIVING RANGE
ARCADE
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9 AM TO 9 PM
APRIL - SEPTEMBER
The Spirit of Christmas committee helped organize a number of
events throughout Tamaqua from November 30-December 4. The
festival kicked off Wednesday at LCCC with Christmas Around the
World featuring
holiday traditions
from a number of
countries
(opposite page).
That same night
at the Flat Iron
Building, the
Mistletoe
Reception
(opposite page)
brought together
a great crowd for
an evening of
food from local
businesses,
entertainment by Gene
Morrison, and photo ops
with Santa and Mrs.
Claus.
The Tamaqua Historical
Society held an open
house on Thursday with
a display of antique toys
(below).
Friday night continued the tra-
dition of a parade to welcome
Santa and Mrs. Claus to town,
illuminate Depot Square Park,
and ended with a Santa and
Mrs. Claus meet and greet at
the Tamaqua Community Art
Center.
THE ANNUAL SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
Courtesy Mary Linkevich
Saturday featured a theater show at the
Art Center along with a cookie contest for
kids and adults as
well as a kids
Christmas craft
event. The festival
culminated on
Sunday with a tree
lighting in Depot
Square Park and a
performance by the
Tamaqua High
School Jazz Chorale.
The cookie contest
winners were also
announced (shown left).
This year’s festival also
featured the sale of traditional
bayberry candles that were
available at the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce and Tink’s
Antiques. It takes months of planning and many volunteers and
sponsors to ensure a successful season. Many thanks to all who
contributed!
The Tamaqua Historical
Society organizes two major
events in downtown
Tamaqua: Summerfest on
Father’s Day in June and
Heritage Fest on the second
Sunday in October.
Both events feature a
wide variety of vendors
lining the streets with
food, crafts, and infor-
mation. The festivals
have carriage rides,
historical re-enactors, a
car show, blacksmith
demonstrations, and much
more. Many local non-profit
organizations set up stands
for fundraising, and you can
always find something good
to eat. Train rides from the
historic Tamaqua train
station are a
popular attraction
for many who
attend every year.
Contact the
Tamaqua Historical
Society for more
information.
SUMMERFEST AND HERITAGE FEST
1257 Municipal Road | Lehighton PA 18235
Oil, On Road/Off Road Diesel, Kerosene, Gasoline
24/7 Emergency Service
Plumbing and Heating
Oil burner cleaning service
Family owned and operated since 1998.
The Tamaqua Area High School Raider Marching Band marching
on Main Street at Disney World in February 2017.
Odd Fellows Cemetery in bloom. Photo courtesy Donald Serfass.
Chamber Member New Life Assembly of God held a
painting fundraiser for their youth group at the Tamaqua
Community Art Center, one of many events organized
by the church throughout the year.
Chamber Member AAA
Schuylkill County, with
offices in Pottsville and
Tamaqua, celebrated their
50th Anniversary of AAA
Insurance in October
2016. Customers were
treated to goodies from
Momma C's Bakery in
Andreas as well as
promotional items from the companies
they represent such as Travelers, CSAA,
Donegal, Foremost, Aegis, National
General, and Progressive. Tamaqua office
(above): Wanda Kropp, CSR, Ann Marie
Calabrese, Agent, and Robert Watcher,
CEO. Right: Magic 105.5 WMGH's Kim
Noel was on the road live from the
Tamaqua Office with CEO Robert Watcher.
Residents of the ABC Hi-Rise participated in
the Senior Art Project which allowed them to
create art in a variety of media and with
several different
instructors guiding
them through each
project. Their creative
work then culminated
in an exhibit at the
Tamaqua
Community Art
Center in May.
Great job to all
those involved!
Serving Tamaqua with Affordable, Quality Housing
ABC Tamaqua Hi-Rise, Inc.
401 Hazle Associates, L.P.
“Liberty Hall” 420 E. Broad Associates, L.P.
For information call
570-668-0313 or visit our website at housing—abc.org
Berwick House Apartments
The Tamaqua Area
Chamber of Commerce
presented the
19th Annual Tamaqua
New Year’s Eve Eagle Rise
at the ABC Hi-Rise.
Started in 1998, Frank
Fabrizio of Brockton has
provided the light and
sound engineering for the
event every year.
Hundreds gathered for the
event to ring in the new
year as the eagle rose
175 feet up the tallest
building in Tamaqua.
Photos courtesy
Andrew Leibenguth
Left: Chamber Member
Revive Community
Fellowship manned
the hot chocolate
stand for NYE.
Right: The crowd
gathered on Broad St
to ring in 2017.
In April 2016, Chamber
Member Tamaqua Station
Restaurant opened its
doors in Tamaqua’s
historic train station, fill-
ing a vacancy when Vonz
Restaurant closed in
December.
Owners Melanie and John Ross
have over 45 years of combined
restaurant experience, even
working together in a variety
of fine restaurants. They
co-owned Madeline’s in
Orwigsburg before grabbing this opportunity in Tamaqua.
Daily specials, a full bar,
attentive service, outdoor
patio seating, and a
unique atmosphere make
this casual fine dining
restaurant a destination
that reaches far beyond
the borough boundaries.
NEW IN TOWN
Charlotte A. Solt, Inc.
Congratulates
Paul Dodson and
Melanie and John Ross.
Thanks for all you do!
TAMAQUA SCENES BY DONNIE SERFASS
ABOVE: December in Depot Square
BELOW: A train travels through Tamaqua.
In August 2016, volunteers with the organizations Safer Streets for
Tamaqua’s Little Feet and the Skook Recovers got together to
tackle the beautification of Tama-
qua’s Spruce Street park. They
painted, weeded, shoveled,
swept, and made an impact on
the community. We thank them
for their continued efforts in other
areas of town and beyond. Civic
volunteerism is needed in every
community to instill pride and
create a safe environment. There
are many ways to contribute. Find
yours.
Many thanks to the donors for this
project: Kane Lumber, 84 Lumber
Lehighton, Sherwin
Williams Schuylkill
Haven, Patrick
Harach Construction,
Ziegler's Auto Repair
and Towing,
Vinyl Creations,
Wayne
Bachert
Construction,
Buzzy
Snyder, Blue
Mountain
Health
Systems,
and Piercinis.
SPRUCE STREET PARK BEAUTIFICATION
Best Wishes to the
Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce!
Linda L. Marchalk
Schuylkill County Treasurer
Paid for by Friends of Linda Marchalk
Courtesy Tamaqua Historical Society
TAMAQUA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES AT
THE TAMAQUA TRAIN STATION
FREE OUTDOOR LIVE
MUSIC SERIES EVERY
SUMMER AT TAMAQUA’S
HSITORIC TRAIN
STATION
SPONSOR A CONCERT THIS YEAR!
HELP US CONTINUE TO BRING THESE TALENTED
ENTERTAINERS TO DOWNTOWN TAMAQUA!
Chamber Board Member,
Jack Kulp (right), sits in with
Steve Brosky and Jimmy
Meyer during their show at
the train station as part of
the Chamber’s annual
concert series.
Jack organized the concerts
for 10 years, and we thank
him for his service!
TAMAQUA’S HISTORIC TRAIN STATION
The restored 1874 Philadelphia & Reading Railroad station building is
the location of the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce Summer
Concert Series. The building was formally opened in 2004 following
a $1.5 million restoration project lead by the non-profit organization
Tamaqua S.O.S. Save Our Station. Now featuring a full-service
restaurant, ice cream parlor, and gift shop.
