NEW CUMBERLAND — Every year, the New Cumberland Hall of Fame honors a deceased resident and living member of the community for their lifelong accomplishments and their contributions made to the town. In addition, one person is selected as the recipient of the Spirit of Scouting Award.

During this year’s event, held at the Christian Church in New Cumberland on Feb. 2, those honored included William E. Demos, Richard John Zumer and Timothy James Bednarzik, respectively.

Boy Scout Troop 38 Scoutmaster Rick Greenwood began the ceremony by leading in the Pledge of Allegiance. New Cumberland Mayor Will White welcomed those in attendance, after which the Rev. Bill Matheny saying a prayer. Mike Swartzmiller presented the introduction of all past inductees and gave a history of the Hall of Fame to guests.

Demos was born in Maikri, Turkey, in 1892, coming to the United States in 1924. He and his wife, Nellie, moved to New Cumberland in 1938 and were the managers and owners of the Manas Theater, which was located on South Chester Street. He was an active resident of the community and a member of the Independent Order of Old Fellows. He died in 1966, with his only known living relative being his great nephew, Tim Demos of Wintersville. Tim spoke on his uncle’s behalf and shared memories of him and his aunt from when he was a child.

Zumer was presented by his sister, Mary Ann Zumer Reese. She spoke of her brother’s many accomplishments, saying he spent years mentoring youth in his hometown through sports.

Zumer spent many years as a coach in baseball leagues and as an instructor in basketball skills at the Community House. He helped to not only develop one’s talents in sports, but encouraged students and gave them confidence — both in their personal growth and in team performances. Many of these young people came to support Zumer during the ceremony.

For Zumer, “true success and reward comes from touching the lives of others that will live in their hearts for a lifetime” and “having memories of the community for ages to come.” Zumer’s selflessness will never be forgotten, officials stated. Attorney Larry Manypenny of New Cumberland is a lifelong friend of Zumer. He, too, spoke on his behalf, sharing many memories of years past.

In 1977, the Jack Harris Spirit of Scouting Award was established. The award was created for Harris, who was killed in an automobile accident in 1996, by Boy Scout Troop 38 Scout T.J. Greenwood. The award is presented to a living person every year, officials commented.

The individual must have, at some point in their life, have been involved as a child in scouting, or as a youth or adult leader or committee member. The individual must reside in Hancock County and demonstrate the “Spirit of Scouting.” Bednarzik, who grew up in Chester, was the recipient of the honor this year.

The father of three children, Bednarzik addressed the audience and his wife, speaking as to his interests and involvement with scouts throughout the community.

He stated when his son became involved in scouts, he held troop positions which included treasurer, committee member and committee chair.

He became a Cubmaster in 2009, saying he is “blessed” to have moroe than 20 youth. He helps with community projects that include food drives and assists with Eagle Scout projects.

In addition to family members and friends, the Hall of Fame committee and members of the New Cumberland Lions Club were present for this year’s ceremony.