1953
September 22 – Meetings were held in Grange Hall – Initial meeting to form a Fire Company
October 24– Charter is proposed to form a non-profit organization to be known as Spring Brook Volunteer Fire Company
November 15 – Spring Brook Volunteer Fire Company is officially organized with the following
Officers
President Michael Fick
Vice President John Krupinski Sr.
Secretary Carl Hagen
Assistant Secretary John Locomis
Treasurer William Wright
1954
February 1 – A truck committee is formed with the following members.
Ernie Benjamin
Al Parker
Robert Morgan – Chairman
Sean Pickrell
March 8 – A building committee is formed with the following members.
Ernie Benjamin – Chairman
Robert Haines Sr.
P A Buckley
Paul Millard
April 15 – Special Meeting to discuss finalize discussions of purchases for building
4‘ x 6‘ x 9″ windows at a cost of $9.50 each
8″ x 15″ footer continuing up with 8″ block
4 doors-12‘ 10‘front doors – 2 donated
Summer- Ladies Auxiliary formed with the following members.
President Charlotte Morgan
Secretary Grace Dubransky
Treasurer Harriet Hagen
1954 continued
June – First Spring Brook Volunteer Fireman’s Picnic. Orphans from Lady of Fatima invited
September 13 – First meeting was held in new firehouse.
December 17 – Motion is made to mortgage firehouse to purchase a fire truck.
1955
January 3 – Fire truck is ordered. Motion is made to join Pocono Mutual Aid
March 7 – Ernie Benjamin reported fire truck has been delivered to John Bean Co., Lansing Michigan.
March 21 – Motion made to have fire truck delivered by John Bean Co.
April – Delivery of first fire truck. 1954 Dodge High Pressure Fog Truck at a cost of $9,000.00 of which $8,000 was borrowed.
July 11 – Relief association Officers are elected.
President William Lane
Secretary Kenneth Benjamin
Treasurer Edgar Jones
Sept 1, 2, 3 – Second Annual Spring Brook Fireman’s Picnic. Jars where put out to collect money to pay for a free day for the orphans from Lady of Fatima
1956
August 6 – Joint meeting of firemen and Ladies Auxiliary to discuss adding a kitchen on back of firehouse. Enough block was left from original construction to build the walls. Money would need to be raised to construct the roof.
September 10 – Siren was mounted on Haines Service Station. Motion is made to pay Bob Haines $10 a month to look after coal fire to keep fire truck from freezing
March 4 – Sam Pickrell resigns as chief. Carl Morgan is appointed to fill position, for duration of term
1957
June – 4Th Annual Spring Brook Volunteer Fireman’s picnic was held with a profit of $2,500.00. This was used toward the truck loan leaving a balance of $2,000.00
July 16 – Ladies Auxiliary buys pots and pans
1958
March 18 – Ladies Auxiliary present firemen $825.00 to help with kitchen addition
September 16 – Ellen McLain takes charge of running new kitchen
October 6 – First 2 Scott Air Packs are purchased through the Relief Association.
October 21 – Ladies Auxiliary purchase 50 folding chairs.
1959
June 1 – Nick Scarantino was appointed treasurer of Relief Association
July 8 – 5Th Annual Spring Brook Fireman’s Picnic. Drum and Bugle Corps of Scranton scheduled to march in parade.
September 21 – William Price explained his property lines and agreed to sell some property to fire company
1960
January 4 – Motion is made to pay William Price $500.00 for land, expanding the back of the existing fire company property line.
April 20 – First Vegetable Beef Soup Sale. Price .50c a quart. Profit $55.00
July 7 – 6th Annual Spring Brook Fireman’s Picnic. It was decided to serve a roast beef dinner one night of the picnic.
December– Ladies Auxiliary buy a Santa Suit.
1961
June 13 – Ladies Auxiliary purchased a chest freezer for $100.
Summer – Ladies Auxiliary catered several gatherings including 2 weddings, and a Lion’s Club dinner.
November – Square dance was held. Profit $61.00
1962
January 9 – Ladies Auxiliary purchase a Hobart electric meat slicer.
May 7 – Mayor of Scranton sent a letter of thanks to Spring Brook Volunteer Fire Company for assisting with a fire in Scranton.
August 8 – 8th Annual Spring Brook Fireman’s Picnic. Profit $1,900.00.
1963
June 10 – Fund raising letters are mailed to all homes in township to help Fire Company Summer – No Picnic or parade due to lack of member participation.
1964
February 4 – Motion made to install rear view mirrors in truck.
August 27 – Spring Brook Fireman’s Picnic was held. Profit $1,056.
October 5 – Motion to print Charter on Old English lettering to be framed and hung.
1965
March 1 – Supervisors appoint Fire Police:
Alvin Kilmer
John Scull
John Krupinski Sr.
Charles Strouse
Art Morgan
Fred Stange
Orvill Rinker
August 26, 27, 28 – Annual Spring Brook Fireman’s Picnic held. Profit $951.
1966
August 25, 26, 27 – Annual Spring Brook Fireman’s Picnics held. A “Record Hop” was held on Thursday and Friday. On Saturday a band played. Profit of picnic $706.47.
September 12 – Supervisors will pay for new electrical system to be installed
December 5 – Motion to pay last $500 on Fire Company mortgage.
1967
February 6 – First Bingo to be held on last Tuesday of February. First week Jackpot $50.00
1968
July – Annual Spring Brook Fireman’s Picnic. Profit $30.69
December 6 – Meeting to discuss purchasing new turnout gear to include helmets with liners, boots, gloves & coats. Square Dance planned for January 4 and every Saturday night to follow if successful.
1969
January – A Square Dance is successful. Firemen are assigned for weeks to follow.
May 14 – Four Party-one line phone system with siren hooked in is agreed upon. Four separate phones will be rung in four separate locations, firehouse and homes of Charles Strouse, Joe Tripus, and John Bowan at a cost of $36.00 per month.
1970
April 8 – A new roof will be replaced on the kitchen. Major fund raisers for 1970 are Bingo, Turkey Raffle, Gun Raffle and a Door – to – Door fund drive.
1971
January – Fire at Dick’s Beagle Ranch.
February – Fire at Shirra Lumber
July 17 – Roast Beef Dinner Fund Raiser. Ticket cost $2.00 adult and $1.50 children November 10 – Truck committee found 1966 Walk-in Truck for $500.00 to carry gear.
1972
January 13 – Motion made and seconded to purchase Homelite portable pump. Cost of $320.00.
July 12 – First discussion of two-way radios for firemen use.
August 30 – First discussion on taking $3,000.00 loan from Penn Security Bank to purchase 1963 Mack tank truck.
November 8 – Vote taken to have piping, valve work, and painting done on tank truck by Widdall’s Garage at a cost of $475.
1973
January 10 – Discussion on adding a room into fire hall for holding fire phone and other radio equipment
July 11– Fire phone removed from Marge Strouse house and transferred to Charlie McLain’s resi dence. First two walkie talkies donated to Fire Company by Don O’Connell
November 25 – New roof is replaced on ice house by Pete Dutter.
1974
March 12 – Special meeting for discussion of radios. Two representatives attended to give pricing details on Motorola and GE.
March 20 – Motion to purchase radios for fire company. One base radio unit for firehouse and two mobiles for trucks. Vote by body 10 yes, 4 abstentions
April 10 – Firemen’s Softball League formed.
July 30 – Meeting with supervisors to help support fire company. It is agreed they will pay $100.00 per month rent for use of hall for meetings = $1,200.00 per year. Firemen agree to help supervisors map out township with road names for newly formed planning commission
October 9 – Motion made to borrow $3,500.00 from Penn Security to pay for radios and repairs to Mack is approved unanimously
November 13 – Fire phone is removed from firehouse and a private phone is installed with 2 party lines at a cost is $9.31 per month. Phone # 842-2311
1975
January 8 – Rescue van has been improved to include new capped tires, red light installed on roof, new interior mirrors and shelves have been added, and a siren has been installed. This van will carry firemen’s gear, first aid kit and extra air bottles for air packs.
February 18 – Motion is made to order a Class A Pumper after the truck committee chairperson Bob Lewis has designed it. Vote by body 23 yes 1 no. A plaque was presented to John Krupinski Sr. for his many years of service with the fire company. John Krupinski Jr., presented a check on behalf of his father for the purchase of helmets.
March 12 – Motion is made to convert land adjoining firehouse into a parking lot and a Baseball field for the community. This approved unanimously by body.
April 9 – Explosion on Aston Mountain and Semenza Fireworks involved three tractor trailers. Two firemen were hurt, Dick Morgan and Marty Justic.
July 16 – Truck committee requested Mr. Mowrey to bring a demonstrator truck up to look at. Price quote is given of approximately $51,800.
August 13 – Motion to construct an addition on firehouse. Approximate dimensions 40 x 60. This is defeated by a voice vote
October 8 – A 24‘ flagpole was donated by Mr. O’Donnell with a photo and article in Villager of dedication
December – Christmas trees for sale in front of firehouse, Polarized Meats in Moosic. Profit $1,067.
1976
January 14 – Bob Lewis, truck committee chairman reported he received a new price of $46,000.00 for a Class A Pumper, from the John Bean Co presentation of information at February 10th 7:30 meeting. A fire phone has been removed from John Bowen’s residence to George Benjamin’s residence. A new procedure has been implemented for fire calls. The Recreation Committee has given approval for Fire Company to develop land for a recreation area with township money for the children
March 17 – Special Meeting is held to discuss purchasing of a new truck. Motion was made to buy an FMC Bean Corp truck at a cost of $39,000. Vote taken by secret ballet. 14 Yes 2 No. Motion is made to borrow $37,000.00 from Penn Security at 7% interest for 15 Years. Supervisors agree to help finance new truck by increasing appropriations from $1200.00 to $6000.00 per year.
June – Chief suggested gear be issued to active members only. Definition of active is a member must attend at least 6 meetings a year, 2 work nights a month and 1 fire school per year.
July 11 – An open house was held to display, our new truck. Coffee and cake were served. A picture was taken by the Villager, of Mr. O’Donnell alongside a flagpole he donated.
September 24 – Ladies take a bus trip to West Point.
1976 continued
October 13 – Officers meet with recreation Committee to discuss agreement to lease some pro perty, with the stipulation that fire company events come first, we will meet with solicitor to write up the lease.
November 10 – Shale is donated by Mr. DeFazio for parking lot and mine rock for field.
December 8 – DER presented us with a check for $1657.00 matching funds grant.
December 12 – Santa Claus is driven around township on top of fire truck for first time.
Fund Raiser held during 1976 by firemen: Roast Beef dinner – May & October, Spaghetti dinner – August Many pools were filled. Price was raised from $10.00 a load to $15.00 a load. Bingo was held every week with the ladies working the kitchen. Hoagie sale.
Fund Raiser held during 1976 by ladies: Easter Egg Hunt, Hunters breakfast, Bus trip to West Point, and an Election Day lunch & dinner.
1977
January 12 – Discussions on joining Corn Center. At this time CB radios are being used to communicate among fireman on Channel 11.
February 14 – Lease agreement is signed with the Recreation Committee to lease property located behind firehouse for 5 years, for public use.
March 27 – Special Meeting is held to discuss report on tanker, Purchase a rebuilt engine from Tony Fick and borrow $2500.00 to purchase and install it. A motion was made to sell Rescue Van. Accepted by all.
September– One 6-channel portable radio is purchased through Relief Association at a cost of $300.00
September 27– Special Meeting is held to discuss a request to supervisors for 3 mills – Decision pending approval
October – Ladies Auxiliary purchased a potato masher at a cost of $795.00
November 19 – Ladies Aux. traveled to New York City to see Radio City Christmas Show.
Fund Raisers for this year of 1977: Clambake, Spaghetti dinner, Hoagie sale, Ham dinner, Hunters breakfast
1978
Firemen’s Olympics are held for the first year. All Mutual Aid Fire Companies will be invited to partici pate.
This is the last year Bingo will be held due to–the decreasing profit from 1965 to 1978.
A donation drive will be processed through the mail for the first time, rather than door to door.
1978 continued
Rodney Serena becomes new Secretary/Treasurer of Relief Association.
Fund Raisers held for this year of 1978. Pancake Brunch, Easter Egg Hunt, Roast Beef dinner, Election Day lunch/dinner, Bingo, Firemen’s Olympics, Hunters breakfast, Donation Drive.
1979
January – Reorganization of Fire Police with four members: Don O’Connell, Ralph McLain, John Scull and Tom White. Plectron tones are on order.
March – Registration papers sent out for fire company mascot, a Dalmatian Dog.
June – New Plectron encoder will be installed at Comm Center. Spring Brook tones will be in encoder when installed.
August – Fireman’s Olympics were held. Four events that took place were, Ladder Raise, Bucket Brigade, Obstacle Course, and Tug of War.
October – Comm Center states our designator on radios will be “Spring Base” and “All Spring Units
December – Fire Company is checking into the situation of not receiving the correct amount of monies from the state for Relief Association due to an address discrepancy. Home insurance policies should read that the property is in Spring Brook Township not Moscow as the mailing address
Fund Raisers held for this year of 1979: Easter Egg Hunt, Spaghetti dinner, Donation Drive, Roast Beef dinner, Hunters breakfast, Circus (in sponsorship with Moscow), and Firemen’s Olympic
1980
January – Special Meeting is held to discuss: public comments and responsibilities of Fire Company
Fire company’s duties are limited to handling emergency situations, not policy of proposed business, the impending fire works factory.
Requested supervisors to implement a smoke detector ordinance.
Requested supervisors to raise fine of burning ordinance from $10 to $50
February – A motion is made to purchase 13 pagers, 13 chargers, and 13 cases. First Texaco gas cards are distributed to four officers
July 8 – All fire phones will be removed as soon as possible. Remaining phones are at Morgan’s an Scull’s
1980 continued
August – Motion to add a meeting room onto firehouse.
September 14 – Ladies Auxiliary rented a booth at a fair held at the Viewmont Mall and raised $945 A Resolution is created to borrow funds for meeting room.
Fund Raisers held for this year of 1980: Two Roast Beef dinners, Clambake, Election Day lunch and dinner
1981
March – Wood is purchased for the addition of meeting room. As soon as weather is acceptable the construction will start.
April – We will advertise in Villager and Pocono News that all emergence calls in Spring Brook should be called in through 911.
June – Discussion on entrance way between truck room and small room. Rod Serena and Rick Lewis will contact masons on the installation of a beam.
August – Block work is installed at front of building at a cost of $150.00
September – An original and still active member of Ladies Auxiliary Grace Dubransky has passed away. She attended her last meeting on July 1981, were she was still serving as secretary and taking minutes.
December – New windows have been purchased for the kitchen by Ladies Auxiliary at a cost of $642.00 The Relief Association financial report is issued showing state allocations of $1444.00 yearly
Fund Raisers held by men for this year of 1981: Two Roast Beef dinners, Spaghetti dinner, Hunters Breakfast and a Donation Drive. Fund Raisers held by ladies for this year of 1981: Two Election Day lunches and dinners.
1982
January – Paint job and lettering on Tanker is to be done by Knoll’s Body Shop
February – A motion is made to purchase two portable radios. One to be used in Ford and one to he used by a day time member on site.
May – Ladies present men with $500.00 to purchase paneling for the new addition.
September – Rod Serena will obtain material to finish soffet on outside of new addition.
1982 continued
November – Finish small room with doors and locks. A lifetime member plaque will be purchased for John Bowen.
Fund Raisers held by men for this year of 1982: Clambake, Hunters breakfast, two Roast beef dinners, and a Donation drive.
Fund Raisers held by ladies for this year of 1982: Cookbook sales, Welsh Cookies, two Election Daylunches and dinners.
1983
June – Rod Serena offered to handle renting out tables and chairs, and oversee hall rentals.
September– Special Meeting on condition of tanker. I Beams are rotting Assistant Chiefs Jim White and Rod Serena decide to take tanker out of service until repairs can be made. Tanker will be taken to John Matisko for estimate
September 13 – Relief Association has been audited by state. Several changes must be made;
- 1. Raise bond insurance to $5000.00.
- Two signatures must appear on each check
- President of fire company is considered President of Relief Association.
- Must keep checking journals and receipt & expense ledgers.
- Separate minute books
October – Base radio will be removed from Chief Bob Smith home. Bonnie is considering taking the radio. Sunshine Ceramics will donate ceramic letters for new sign on firehouse. Sheila White will complete work on lettering.
Very little activity in fire company this year. Membership is down. Ladies Auxiliary membership is down to 5 or 6 active members.
Fund Raisers held this year of 1983: A Roast Beef dinner, Donation Drive, Election Day lunch & dinner
1984
January – Fire Company files for Federal ID Number – to prove organization is non profit.
February – Bingo machine is sold.
March – Base radio is now at President John lannarone home.
June – Portable Pump is stolen in while filling a swimming pool.
July – Valley Plumbing is hired to replace boiler at a cost of $4000.00
1984 continued
August – Dickey Family donates a pavilion to Fire Company. This structure stood on the Dickey farm in Madisonville. It was disassembled and transported to Spring Brook where it was reassembled behind firehouse.
September – One industrial stainless steel sink is donated to Fire Company. It is decided to place this sink outside, behind kitchen for washing large pots
October – A brush truck is received from Forestry Department. It needs work to make it road worthy.
November – A check is received from insurance company for the portable pump that was stolen.
Fund Raisers held by men this year of 1984: Fish Fry, Roast Beef dinner, Donation drive,
Fund Raisers held by ladies this year of 1984: Soup Sale, Chances on ceramics, Election day lunch and dinner.
1985
March – A water tank is installed on Dodge Brush truck. This tank is 40‘ long with a diameter of 38 ‘. It is a polyurethane tank that will hold 150 gallons. Its cost is $212.00 March – First Ladies Auxiliary meeting of year. Only 6 members attend. A decision is made to paint kitchen on April 25. A Canary Yellow color is purchased.
April – John lannarone is taken to hospital in ambulance for inhaling fumes at a garbage truck fire.
September – Ladies ran a Rummage Sale. A profit of $150.00 is made.
November – Motion is made to purchase new insulated garage doors, with automatic door opener at a cost of $1769.00 per door. Township agrees to pay for one and Fire Company will pay for other
Fund Raisers held for this year of 1985: Roast beef dinner, Donation drive
1986
February – Fire Company lakes Prestige Pools to court for non payment for refilling a defective pool. Prestige Pools lost this case and are ordered to pay by the end of the month.
November – Township will take over the Shirra Lumber building. Rick Lewis requested to house a fire truck there for better fire protection on that side of township.
December – Rod Serena is sworn in as Forest Fire Warden by Forestry Department, to cover Spring Brook Twp.
Fund Raisers held by men this year of 1986: Roast Beef Dinner, Donation Drive.
Fund Raisers held by ladies this year of 1986: Rummage Sale, Election Day lunch & dinners catered a wedding and graduation party.
Firemen responded to 36 calls this year.
1987
January – A VCR purchased for training purposes.
March – It is agreed to return all rented telephones to Bell Telephone and purchase our own. Ed Kessler donated on telephone.
April – Comm Center notifies us that Box Alarms must be created and submitted to the county.
May – Motion is made to purchase a 1982 GMC Engine from Mowrey FMC Fire Apparatus at a cost of $69,554.00 with a 2% loan from the state.
June – Jim White, the liaison with supervisors, reports progress with Maple Lake Station. The Supervisors have approved the parking of one of our trucks in a bay of the front building.
August – A Balloon Launch is held at Moscow Country Fair. The furthest distance prize is $50.00 savings bond. Other prizes include smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
September – Delivery of GMC to firehouse. It will be titled Spring 4.
Ladies Auxiliary struggle to survive. Only 4 meetings are held in 1987, with only 6 members.
Fund Raisers held by men this year of 1987: Two Roast Beef dinners, and a Donation
Drive Fund Raisers held by ladies this year of 1987: Election Day lunches and dinners. Also catered one wedding. Firemen responded to 53 calls this year.
1988
February – CPR course is held by Moscow Ambulance. All firemen passed and were certified.
April – Supervisors request firemen to participate in improvements of Maple Lake Station by supplying the labor to insulate and other work. Firemen will not be responsible for plumbing and electric work. The Ford will be housed at Maple Lake and the GMC will stay in Spring Brook.
June – The purchase is made of a potato peeler from Old Forge Fire Co.- cost $175.00
July – Ladies Auxiliary purchase a new chest freezer.
November – Rod Serena suggested a marching unit should be organized for the upcoming parade season.
Fund Raisers held by men this year of 1988: Two Roast Beef dinners and a Donation Drive.
This is the best Donation Drive held to date yielding $12,000
Fund Raisers held by ladies this year of 1988: Election Day lunch and dinner.
Firemen responded to 55 calls this year.
1989
January – Our first fire truck the 1954 Dodge is officially out of service. It will be housed at the Maple Lake Station. Firemen decide a fire company motto will be “Against all Odds”.
February – A motion is made to paint the brush truck donated by Forestry Department at a cost of $250.00. The lettering will match the GMC. This fee for this job is donated by John lannarone
April – Don Beemer had a banner made for the marching unit and the Ladies Auxiliary paid for it.
June 1 – Ladies Auxiliary decide to disband due to lack of members. The treasury holds $1429.00. It is decided to purchase necessary supplies for the kitchen and present the remaining money to the firemen.
November 24 – Firehouse was broken into and two Scott Air packs were stolen. Police and insurance company have been notified.
Fund Raisers held by men this year of 1989: A Roast Beef dinner and Donation Drive.
Fund Raisers held by ladies this year of 1989: Election Day lunch and dinner.
Firemen responded to 65 calls this year.
1990
May – A new chainsaw is purchased at a cost of $360.00. It will be used for clearing trees at accidents and trees downed by storms.
October – Rick Lewis made a motion to approach supervisors about millage again and request 2 mills.
Fund Raisers held by men this year of 1990: A Roast Beef dinner and Donation Drive.
Firemen responded to 92 calls this year.
1991
January – The Supervisors deny the request for millage.
May – Daily Number calendars will be sold as a fund raiser. Jim White, chairperson, will handle the receipts and payments.
September – Firehouse is vandalized. Estimated damages $11,975.00 for building and its contents, $3253.00 for truck repair, and $2996.00 for FIRELEX for cleaning
December – Mutual Aid Cascade Association. Rod Serena Vice President.
Fund Raisers held this year of 1991: Daily Number Calendars and a Donation Drive.
Firemen responded to 49 calls this year.
1992
May – Bob Lewis sold a chest of tools to fire company at a cost of $82.00.
No other meetings were held this year.
Fund Raisers held this year of 1992: Daily Number Calendar. Firemen responded to 33 calls this year.
1993
January – Spring Brook is assigned a station number and titled as Station 53 by Comm Center.
March – AA rents the small room offirehouse for 2 nights a week for $100 a month.
June: Due to extremely bad condition of the tanker, Randy Carter, a supervisor was requested to attend this meeting to see it, and to discuss how township could possibly assist in financing a new tanker. He proposed the possibility of a 2 mill tax increase for fire department.
August – First discussion from Rick Lewis about dry hydrants, possibly being financed by state, He will research possible sites.
October – Refreshments were sold at the Cherokee Riding Stables Haunted hay ride with a profit of $191.00
December – Supervisors approve 2 mills to help finance a new tanker.
Fund Raisers held this year of 1993: Daily Number Calendar and Fund Drive.
Firemen responded to 74 calls this year.
1994
February – Rick Lewis made a motion which is approved by all to sign a contract with Simpson motors to build a Mack Chassis for new tanker/pumper at a cost of $68,048.00.
May – Horseshoe pits are completed next to pavilion. Tournament will be held in June.
July 5 – A motion is made and approved by all to sign a contract with Firewolf Industries to build a 1500 GPM tanker/pumper with 3000 gallon tank, built on our Mack chassis. Cost of truck $135,027.00 Total cost of everything $203,075.00
July 12 – A motion is made by Rod Serena and approved by all to borrow $205,000.00 from Penn
Security for a loan on tanker/pumper until the 2% state money is available.
September – A Horseshoe tournament and Pig Roast are held with a great turnout and a total profit of $470.00. Bill Lane donated a pig for the roast. A nice time was had by all.
November – The 2% PEMA Loan is approved.
Fund Raisers for this year of 1994: Two Horseshoe Tournaments, A Roast Beef dinner, A Daily Number Calendar, a Hunters breakfast, an Election Day soup sale, and Refreshments at Haunted Hay Ride.
Firemen responded to 47 calls this year.
1995
March – A box is built onto back of the Brush truck. Lumber was donated by Tom Gudz.
February – Firewolf contacted us about the sale of contracts to KME. Bob decides to hire an attorney about our rights under signed contract.
March – Attorney’s Marsh & Yanick are secured to represent us. KME wishes to change our contract.
April 18 – A Special Meeting is held to discuss Tanker/pumper problems. After a lengthy discussion a secret ballet vote is taken to decide whether KME or Smeal will complete truck. Total votes 8 KME 4 Smeal, it is agreed that KME will modify tank from 3000 to 2500 gallons at a cost not to exceed $3,500.00 above cost in original contract. This modification will provide for a 12″ deep hose bed. This will only be accepted after a pre-construction meeting is held with KME and Fire Company.
May 11 – A Special Meeting is held. Final blueprints of tanker/pumper are presented by KME. After revised contract and blueprints were reviewed, Rod Serena made a motion to accept the revisions. Vote 7 Yes, 1 No. A letter of acceptance is signed and send back to KME to proceed with building.
June 27 – A motion is made by Rick Lewis and approved by all to borrow $110,000.00 at 2% for 15 years per PEMA resolution.
July 18 – $1,000.00 is received from Representative Frank Serafini for new truck.
October 3 – Delivery of new truck. Plans are being made for Wet Down Party Oct 21.
November – Replace two back windows on Kitchen at a cost of $660.00
Fund Raisers held this year of 1995: Two Horseshoe Tournaments, a Roast Beef dinner, the Daily Number Calendar, and a Donation Drive.
Firemen responded to 62 calls this year.
1996
April 17 – A letter will be sent to Comm Center from our attorney for the error they made toning out Greenwood, Moosic, and Pittston Twp for a structure fire at George Aston residence. This letter is to insure that this does not happen again.
October – A $10,000.00 loan is obtained for equipment needed on tanker. The closing will be on October 29.
December – A motion is made by Rod Serena and approved by all to donate the old tanker to the township as long as they help to install dry hydrants.
Fund Raisers held this year of 1996: A Roast Beef dinner, two Horseshoe Tournaments, a Craft Fair and an Election Day soup sale and dinner.
Firemen responded to 72 calls this year
1997
January – Ed Kessler begins organizing our First Cow Flop Bingo to be held in August.
February – A motion is made to purchase an exhaust hood from Gouldsboro at a cost of $600.00
March – First schedule to be set for Cow Flop Picnic. Ed Kessler is chairman.
April – A concrete pad is poured for a sign in front of fire house. Jay Hrywnak will install steel framing and light fixtures. Closing calendar account. $20,000.00 is placed in the savings account. Ken and Bob Aston propose constructing two catch basins and piping with gravel across the field to help with drainage
July – The Forestry Department donates a generator and a water buffalo.
August – First Cow Flop Picnic is held. The field was sectioned into 1,000 squares. DJ was Joe Napolitano. Bands were Late Show and Desperado. Fireworks were donated by John lannarone.
October – Plastic lettering for the sign is received and installed.
November – a 6 x 6 Army truck is received from the Forestry Department for fighting brush fires.
Fund Raisers held this year of 1997: A Fish Fry, A Clam chowder sale, two Horseshoe Tournaments, a Roast Beef dinner, a Donation Drive, and the Cow Flop.
Firemen responded to 47 calls this year.
1998
January – Fire Hall is painted three shades of gray.
February – Verna Sweeter remembered the fire company in her will with a $2,000.00 donation.
April – It is decided the small room is no longer for rent and will be used by members only. It is decided to check into a truck to replace the GMC.
May – The Ford is sold for $2,500.00. Matching funds equaling $2,500.00 are given by the Forestry Department to fix 6 x 6 Army truck previously donated.
September – Two – 4 unit gear racks are purchased
October – Township budget locks fire department into receiving 3 mills income. A first Halloween dance/costume party is planned.
1998 continued
November – Three firemen from Arkansas were up to look at GMC. They agreed to purchase it at a cost of $35,500.00, with a deposit o $3,000.00. Truck will be loaded onto a Red Line tow truck. The balance of $32,500.00 will be wired upon delivery.
December – A Cookbook committee is set up. New kitchen sink cabinet is being constructed at Vo-Tech . Cost is only for wood and hardware.
Fund Raisers held this year of 1998: A Fish Fry, Soup sale, Two Horseshoe Tournaments, Roast Beef dinner, Cow Flop, Election Day dinner and soup sale, and a Donation Drive.
Firemen responded to 60 calls this year.
1999
January 24 – A Special Meeting is held to vote on a new engine. Two bids are submitted. The bid is of $281,864.00 is accepted from Mowrey Apparatus Chassis. The truck will be built by Sparta Motors. The dimensions are 114 x 32“ 8″
February – A new commercial refrigerator is purchased at a cost of $500.00. A bus accident occurred on Rte 690 near Maple Lake Church., car vs bus. Fourteen ambulances respond., but no one is hurt
April 1 – Forestry Department donates a pickup truck.
May – An outdoor freezer is picked up at Bill’s Market. Tim Lane will repair it. Representative Frank Serifini has obtained a $5,000.00 State Grant.
July – Bob Aston replaces the septic tank. The equipment loan is paid off. Dave Morgan proposed reestablishing Fire Police. Idea is approved as long as it is established within fire department. Dave will recruit members.
September – Anita Lane proposes we purchase a cow costume to advertise Cow Flop at parades. Since next year is the fourth Cow Flop and it has been extremely successful, it is decided to try and sell 3 sets of tickets.
October – Dave Morgan donates potatoes and cabbage for Roast Beef dinner.
November – A new floor is put down in firehouse with heat pipes running through concrete.
December – The new fire truck is delivered.
Fund Raisers held this year of 1999: A first Pierogie sale, Fish Fry, Election Day lunch and dinner two Horseshoe tournaments, the Cow Flop, and a Roast Beef dinner.
Firemen responded to 70 calls this year.
2000
January – The list of equipment for the new truck totals $20,116.00. The Relief Association can pay for these items with investment monies.
February – A new floor is put down in kitchen at a cost of $1,100.00.
March – Two sinks are purchased for the kitchen at a cost of $999.00. Mike Clem is hired to build new cabinets for kitchen at a cost of $6,000.00
June 3 – A dedication and blessing of new truck is held.
August – Bonnie lannarone is Cow Flop chairperson.
October – Rod Serena proposes a skid unit for back of Forestry pickup. A 2nd annual Halloween party is held at a cost of $10.00 per person.
December – Ken Nolls has obtained donations of $76.00 to purchase candy to be handed out by Santa.
Fund Raisers held this year of 2000: A Fish Fry, Pierogie sale, Soup sale, Two Horseshoe Tourn aments, the Cow Flop, a Roast Beef dinner, Election Day lunch/dinner, and a Donation Drive.
Firemen responded to 73 calls this year.
2001
January – A car accident involving a car vs bus occurred. One of our members, James Williams, lost his two sisters in this accident. Firemen help with traffic control at the funeral and gave their support to James and his family. A copy machine is donated to Fire Company by Ken Nolls. A celI phone is purchased for the engine.
March – Fire Police are re-established. Dave Morgan is Captain. Approval is given to spend $300.00 on safety equipment. Old cabinets will be taken out of kitchen.
April 7 – An Easter Egg Hunt was held, chaired by Ken Nolls. All items were either donated or paid with donations. Sixty nine children attended. Ken Nolls received donations of a bike and a doll house to raffle at Cow Flop Picnic.
June – Fax machine is purchased at a cost of $300.00.. Uniforms and badges are ordered from Star uniform.
September 13 – Fire fighter Robert Aston lost his life when struck by lightning, while performing volunteer
work at the Maple Lake Ball Park. Firemen gave support to his family and helped with traffic
control.
September 26 – Fire fighter and long time president John lannarone lost his life in an explosion at his
Business, J & J Pyrotechnics on Rte 502.
October 1 – A Fireman’s Funeral is held today in honor of President John lannarone. All firemen attend as honor guard, and accompany the casket on the new engine to his final resting place.
Firemen wore their new uniforms for the first time.
October 6 – Firemen attend Sussex county parade as a fully uniformed marching unit with drums. They brought home two awards. First place for Out of County Hose Relay and Second place for Best Appearing Company out of County. Fund Raisers held this year of 2001: A Fish Fry, Clam Chowder sale Two Horseshoe Tournaments Cow Flop, a Roast Beef dinner, Election Day lunch/dinner, and a Donation Drive.
2002
February – A donation of a tank and reel for the body of the squad, is received from Rick Lewis, and I Serena. A committee is formed to decide feasibility of this donation.
March 11 – It is discussed to run a Quick Response Vehicle course Jeff will pursue further. The squad will be equipped for forest fires. It is in need of pump and reel. Vote 11 yes 2 no.
April – David Hahn, the fire chief of Moscow, attended this meeting to discuss the Quick Response Vehicle course. The bids for the Air Packs are in. A motion is made and approved by all to purchase Scott Air Packs.
April 10 – Reorganized Ladies Auxiliary held their first meeting. A date is set for first fund raiser, a Community Yard Sale.
June – Ladies Auxiliary order and receive uniform shirts for parades.
July – A committee is formed to refurbish the Dodge for parades. Brakes need to be fixed and it needs to be painted.
September- Mike Grady, a supervisor, attended the meeting to inform firemen about recycling program in township, and the possibility of a burning ordinance.
November – Seven new tables are purchased. The old tables are only to be lent out to members.
December – The Ladies Auxiliary has purchased a new Santa Suit and 2 Polaroid Cameras for pictures with Santa and also pictures with Easter Bunny.
Fund Raisers held by men this year of 2002: A Fish Fry, two Horseshoe Tournaments, a Roast Beef dinner, the Cow Flop, and a Donation Drive. Fund Raisers held by ladies this year of 2002; A Community Yard sale, Election Day lunch/dinner Welsh Cookies sale and a Raffle Basket
Firemen responded to 63 calls this year.
2003
January 25 – Plans are being made for a combination Installation dinner and a 50TH Anniversary of the fire company celebration at the Gouldsboro Fire Hall. Also. First discussion of new building.
March- Lockers were purchased for fire gear. We will be attending the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Scranton.
April- Kevin Serena clears brush around our property lines to see where new building will be placed.
May. – Pete Dutter asks to hang World War II monument on the fire company’s building.
June- Proposal is made to purchase Kunigel’s houses and property located at the intersection of rt. 690 and RT 502
June 16th– Special cow flop meeting- Township wants to sell 150th anniversary items at the cow flop for the township along with 50th anniversary of the fire company. Junior firefighters run a car wash.
July- Quick Response Vehicle (QRV) plans are finalized. License for this program was submitted to EMS by Steve Kravitz. Steve Kravitz named EMS Captain.
September- We will be using Moscow’s blazer as our QRV. Anyone wishing to participate in the QRV program needs to be a member of the Moscow Fire Co. as well as Spring Brook.
Chief Jeff Hedrick Proposed a point system to monitor the activity of each member. It is decided to run this monitoring system on a trial basis from October 2003 to October 2004.
October- Cow flop profits $27,963
November– Motion is made to purchase the Kunigle’s property for $110,000. Moscow Fire Co. makes a presentation of their blazer. QRV program will officially be started next month.
December – A computer was purchased for the fire company. Jumpsuits were purchased of EMT’s
Fire Calls for 2003- 128
Fundraisers– Fish fry, 2 Horseshoe tournaments, Cow Flop Picnic, and Roast Beef dinner.
Ladies Aux. fundraisers– Yard sale, Election Day lunch and dinner, Welsh cookie sale, Raffle Basket.
2004
February– Loan finalized with PNC Bank to purchase Kunigle property.
March- Approved 3 day Cow Flop picnic with a DJ on Thursday and live bands on Friday and Saturday.
June- Intersection of RT 690 at O’Hara road will be shut down for roadwork on the culvert. The intersection will be closed until approx. September of this year. Old ice trailer is refurbished and will be used as a beer trailer for the picnic.
July- New By-laws are adapted for the fire company. Received state grant for $9,500 to start the new addressing of the township. Loan on Tanker is paid off. Chief Jeff Hedrick submits his letter of resignation effective 07-13-04.
September- Received $5000 state grant from Rep. James Wanszac for correction of tax status for the fire company. Our tanker is on standby for Moosic due to water main problems. Greenwood is on standby for us on Aston’s Mountain due to the bridge being out.
October- Dept. of Environmental Protection donates 5 ton forestry truck. Point system is discontinued.
December- Steve Kravitz is looking into getting our own license and vehicle to run the QRV program. Received 2 new flags from Rep. Wanzac.
Fire calls 91
QRV calls 156
Fundraisers- Fish fry, 2 Horseshoe tournaments, Cow Flop picnic, Roast Beef dinner.
Ladies Aux. Fundraisers- Tupperware party, Yard Sale, Election Day lunch and dinner, Welsh cookie sale, Raffle Basket.
2005
February- Bonnie Iannarone’s Dodge Durango was purchased for $8000, to be painted and lettered to run as our QRV. Steve Kravitz is looking in equipment needed to operate our own QRV.
April- Bill Millard and Mark Sowers have set up a web site for the fire company. WWW.SPRINGBROOKVFC.ORG. Gary McLain will paint the Durango.
May- QRV lettering approved from Creative Sign Works. Purchased a John Deere lawnmower with a 54” deck.
June- Moscow pulls their QRV. New tenants for the back house, Kevin Serena and Jen Seber. A lot of work needs to be done before they move in- tear up carpets, paint, and rewire kitchen.
August- Started running our own QRV service.
December- Cascade system purchased from Willow Grove Fire Company. Rescue tools purchased for $12,800 with grant money.
Fire calls- 82
QRV calls- 143
Fundraisers- Fish fry, 2 Horseshoe tournaments, Cow Flop picnic, Roast Beef dinner.
Ladies Aux. Fundraisers.- Clam chowder sale, Yard Sale, Election Day lunch and dinner, Welsh cookie sale, Raffle Basket.
2006
February- Purchased a dunk tank for the picnic for $1500. Mounted new lights on telephone pole to shine over Rt.502 into the field for the picnic.
April- James O’Hara is taking down the bank on the far side of our field to make room for new building. Ken Nolls and family donate Fire Fighter statue for the front of the new building.
May- Rescue classed set for use of our new rescue tools
September- Received grant from the state for flooring in the new building.
October- State grant money, $10,000, is received for purchase of hydraulic rescue tools we purchased in December. First year we ran the haunted house.
November- Bus rescue class held. New tenants in back house, Tim Scott and Laurie Pribble
December- Two Santa’s on fire trucks handed out almost 500 candy canes to township children.
Fire calls- 100
QRV calls- 137
Fundraisers- Fish fry, 2 Horseshoe Tournaments, Cow Flop picnic, Roast Beef dinner
Ladies Aux. Fundraisers- Clam chowder sale, Election Day lunch and dinner, Yard Sale, Haunted House, Raffle Basket.