Columbia Spy

Trolley Stop signs have popped up around town recently, just in time for Wednesday’s launch. The signs denote a few of the places the trolley will stop on its circuitous route through town. The trolley will be introduced to the borough (and vice versa) at a ribbon-cutting at 6:30 p.m.  in front of Borough Hall on Wednesday, May 25.

                     Columbia River Park

                    Columbia Market House

                        Mount Bethel Cemetery

Rivertowne Trolley Company will provide the service with a 24-seat trolley that was recently restored. Service will run from Memorial Day weekend (5/26/16) through Labor Day weekend (9/2/16), 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, and as needed for special events, and extended for Fourth Fridays. Guests might ride free if the budget allows.

The Turkey Hill Experience has agreed to contribute signage, parking attendants at lots, and an informational piece to be distributed to all guests.

Borough Manager Greg Sahd’s idea is becoming a reality.

In March of this year, Sahd introduced a tagline:
“Simply the Best. Columbia, PA . . . It’s a Columbia Thing.”

That tagline appears on t-shirts and hats that Sahd hopes to begin marketing in the near future.

It’s not just hats and shirts. Other major aspects of the Columbia 1st Project are in the planning process.

Further information will be published as it becomes available.

Shown above: Hat and T-shirt with Columbia logo and tagline.

The back of the hat sports the line: “It’s A Columbia Thing”

Students from Our Lady of the Angels gathered in the Gazebo at Locust Street Park on Thursday afternoon. They were there to meet the police.

As part of National Police Week (May15-21), Chief Jack Brommer – with Officers David Souders and Amy Kuhrmann – spoke to the group about their role in keeping the community safe.

Officer Souders opened by reading a book titled Police Officers on the Go.

What education is necessary to become an officer? Some have college degrees and all go through special training which includes physical challenges and testing.

What types of calls do officers respond to? Traffic violations, fights, thefts, domestic disputes, and others.

What kind of gun is carried? A 40-caliber Glock.

What tool is used the most? Officer Souders held up his pen. He explained that the job involves writing reports and taking notes. Officer Kuhrmann said that handcuffs can be an excellent tool, too.

Officers showed equipment carried on their belts: Taser, baton, pepper spray, gun, and extra bullets. Library administrator Lisa Greybill entertained the children by offering to be handcuffed. Chief Brommer uncuffed her a few minutes later.

The handcuffs and a bulletproof vest were passed around for inspection by the audience.

The best was saved for last when other officers arrived, and two police vehicles parked nearby, giving the children a firsthand look. They were excited to examine cars and equipment. Sirens wailed as the demonstration came to an end.