Schuylkill County is set to host its local kickoff for America250PA, a statewide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. The event will take place on January 18, 2025, at the Schuylkill County Courthouse, following the program’s initiation in Philadelphia on January 16. This local celebration is part of a two-week tour that will visit all 67 counties in Pennsylvania.
Details of the Kickoff Event
The kickoff event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and will be held in the commissioners’ board room. Attendees can expect light refreshments, remarks from local and state officials, and presentations from various organizations, including the Schuylkill County Historical Society and representatives from America250PA. Commissioner Gary Hess emphasized the county’s significant contributions to state history, particularly during the Industrial Revolution.
“Schuylkill County was very important because of the Industrial Revolution,” Hess noted. “If it wasn’t for anthracite coal, a lot of things would not be here today.” This event will also mark the beginning of various celebrations planned throughout the year, including parades, fireworks, and concerts.
Community Engagement and Heritage Reflection
Commissioners Chairman Larry Padora expressed hopes that all municipalities within Schuylkill County will participate in the planned events. He highlighted the county’s historical role in the anthracite coal industry and its broader impact on national business. The America250PA initiative aims to connect people of all ages to the rich history and shared heritage that have shaped both Pennsylvania and the nation.
“This celebration is for everyone in our community, to reflect on our past and to spark excitement for the future,” Hess stated.
Community members are encouraged to register in advance for the January 18 event to assist organizers in ensuring its success. Registration can be completed online at form.jotform.com/253344756467164. For ongoing updates and information about events related to America250PA in Schuylkill County, residents can visit facebook.com/America250PASchuylkill.
In addition to discussing America250PA, the commissioners also tentatively approved contracts for three demolition projects in northern Schuylkill County. The bids for the demolition of blighted properties include:
- $11,711 to Dudash Pipeline Co. for 1313 Main St., Gilberton.
- $13,711 to Dudash Pipeline Co. for 120-122 W. Birch St., Mahanoy City.
- $31,191 to Arthur “Pat” Aungst Inc. for 26 S. Main St., Shenandoah.
The contracts will be finalized at the upcoming commissioners’ meeting. Furthermore, appointments to various county authorities were also made, ensuring continued governance and oversight of critical local projects.
The preparations for America250PA reflect a significant opportunity for Schuylkill County to celebrate its heritage while fostering community engagement as the nation approaches this historic milestone.
