The Schuylkill Haven community came to celebrate the dedication of the new Main Street clock on April 23.
The clock, located near the post office and the Reading & Northern Railroad Station, is dedicated to the Schuylkill Haven community. Businesses and residents came together to contribute to the clock as a replacement for the Zwerling landmark. The former clock located downtown for almost 30 years could not be repaired.
Mayor Mike Devlin could not attend the ceremony but sent remarks, stating, “The clock is not only a beautiful reminder of the Zwerling family, but it stands as a symbol of volunteerism and hard work from many people.”
Friends, family and local dignitaries celebrated. Hess Catering offered light refreshments. Special dedication clock cookies made by The Cake Pros were a hit and quickly disappeared. Organizers expressed thanks to Vicky Norris and the Our Haven Foundation for the Main Street pot decor and TB Landscaping for a refresh on the clock foundation garden.
The program included the a capella group the SchuylGurlz singing the national anthem and “From a Distance”. Borough Council President Jerry Bowman was master of ceremonies. The Rev. Shawn VanDyke from First United Church of Christ honored the memory of Dr. Hermann Zwerling and his wife, Mary, who supported the community in the medical field and through their foundation.
Schuylkill County Commissioner Gary Hess said the clock is a symbol of a time for friendship and neighbors coming together. Jeffrey Spotts, president of The Greater Schuylkill Haven Business Association, spoke of the importance of volunteering and how the community gets things done. Borough Administrator Jessica Seiders acknowledged the major contributors to the clock to date.
The true unveiling came a bit early as the wind decided to help and released the colorful parachute cover. Nevertheless, major contributors gathered around the base of the clock for pictures. There were cheers, smiles and a few tears.
Pat Underwood, president of the North Ward Social Club and a major contributor, said, “It was our pleasure and pride to be part of the purchase of the new clock for the borough.”
Another major contributor, Richard “Uncle Dick” Klahr, said, “I am really happy to see the new clock … the old one was missed, so glad to see one back in the borough.”
Seth Bowers a 4-year-old from Pottsville, is a clock aficionado and was excited to see the unveiling. Bonnie Hasenauer, originally from Schuylkill Haven, came to honor Dr. Zwerling as he was her physician. She said he always thought of others.
Contributions are still welcome as an escrow account has been set up to ensure ongoing maintenance of the new clock. Contributions can be made by mailing a payment to Schuylkill Haven Borough,333 Center Ave, Schuylkill Haven, PA 01792 or via the Town Clock for the Borough of Schuylkill Haven GoFundMe page..
Source: Berkshire mont
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