Weather is wreaking havoc with memorial landscaping

It’s been a difficult season for landscaping work, at the Holcombe Area Veterans Memorial, as weather has essentially erased any kind of schedule. The paver stones that commemorate a loved one or an organization, have yet to be set in place, because of aforementioned weather, but the landscaper has high hopes they can get done within the next couple months. “He’s confident he can get everything done by the time snow flies,” said memorial chairman Jim Matacyznski. The second legacy stone memorial ceremony was held over the July 4 weekend, with the last round for this year, set for Aug. 30. More stones will be ready to lay down next year. If anyone wants to purchase a stone, they can visit the memorial website for an order form. Mataczynski reminds people that the legacy stones are for anyone, even a beloved pet. “No, you don’t have to be a veteran,” he said. To help with the clearing efforts, Michael Kuc donated his bulldozer for use, which was put to work by Ron Jiskra. “Ron has made one heck of a change to the outlying area around the site,” said Matacyznski. That includes adding a retention pond and drainage ditches. At a time when a hand was sorely needed, Kuc stepped up to the plate. “He really produced,” said Mataczynski. “A lot of work got done.” Even more work will take place, once the land transfer from David Staudacher comes through. That will allow the east part of the site to be finished. “That’ll be nice,” said Mataczynski. It was agreed, at the July 2 memorial meeting, to purchase a little shed, that will be set between where the two buildings will go. The site’s electronics will go in there, with security circuits installed, as well as the internet. Once they get a well, the pump will also go in the shed. “All that fun stuff,” said Mataczynski. Mataczynski is also thinking ahead to a potential collectible doll show this fall, but wants to include other festivities, such as a cash raffle and basket raffles. But, he can’t do it alone, so he’s looking for ideas, to make a big event. “It’s fun to do that stuff,” he said. “For the most part, it’s a good way to get together and talk.”