Recreation Commission is in jeopardy in S. Hill

The Summit Hill Recreation Commission desperately needs members.

The organization stages the annual Memorial Day Stay-At-Home Festival in Ginder Field - that has become a tradition which attracts thousands of people - and Christmas on the Hill. It's main purpose is to provide recreational activity for the community's children, with the festival serving as a fund-raising event.

According to Joseph Weber, president of Summit Hill Borough Council, there are presently only two active members on the commission: Larry Marek and Monica Marshall.

"Without more members, Rec is on the verge of ceasing to exist," said Weber.

The council president said without the Rec Commission, the Stay-At-Home Festival probably wouldn't occur.

He asked that anyone interested in serving on the commission should contact Kira Michalik, secretary-treasurer of the borough.

"The only requirement is you have to live in the borough," noted Weber.

He is hoping at least a half dozen citizens step forward and get involved in the commission.

The danger of the Recreation Commission's collapse presents another concern to the council. Several months ago, the council told the Recreation Commission it could be in charge of scheduling at the new Community Center when the facility is ready for occupancy. The center was built adjoining the newly constructed fire house along West Ludlow Street.

Councilman Michael Kokinda suggested that a meeting be called with representatives from the Summit Hill Fire Company, Recreation Commission, and Summit Hill Community Improvement Organization to discuss the center.

Weber remarked that he, too, would like all three organizations involved in community center discussions, adding, "We built the hall to be used."

Both Kokinda and councilman Harry Miller indicated they did or will contact officials in Jim Thorpe and find out how they operate the Memorial Hall, hoping to get some guidance on running the new Community Center.

It is not known when the Community Center will be ready for use.

The Community Center was part of a $3.5 million construction project in the borough which including constructing a new borough hall and fire station.