Community Corner
Meet Peter Kapustiak, Emmaus Kiwanis Club Superstar
For 14 years, Kapustiak has dedicated his time to serve his community as a member of the Emmaus Kiwanis Club.
Name: Peter M. Kapustiak
Where do you live?
"I was born and raised in Emmaus and have lived here the majority of my life, minus my time in the Army."
What is your role in the Emmaus Kiwanis Club?
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"My current role is as a member. I have been a Distinguished Past President, board member, and chair a number of committees and will be President again for a third time this upcoming year.
"I am also a Hixson Award recipient for my dedication to the Emmaus club and community."
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How long have you been involved with Kiwanis?
"...14 years and counting."
You ran the Easter Egg Hunt at Emmaus Community Park this year. Tell us what it takes to make that event happen each year.
"I’ve got it down to a science now. Basically, make sure we have enough eggs. This year we put out over 8,000 eggs. So we have to fill the ones we get back each year and order additional eggs to make up the rest, make up the 'prize eggs,' advertise the event, order the chocolate bunnies, put in our request for the space at the park and then just pray for good weather.
"And the most important thing, contact the Easter Bunny for the children."
What do you enjoy about your involvement with the Emmaus Kiwanis Club?
"I enjoy the camaraderie of my fellow Kiwanians, and knowing that all I do for the club benefits the children of our local community and the community in general."
Tell us why you chose to serve in the Emmaus Kiwanis Club over other service organizations.
"I was introduced to the club when I was coaching my son's baseball team, which was sponsored by the Kiwanis Club. I went to a meeting to thank the club for sponsoring the team and present them with a team photo and next thing you know I became a member and I've been doing it ever since."
What are some of your other hobbies/interests?
"In my free time I umpire local little league baseball games (13 years now), go to IronPigs games, spend time with my wonderful wife, Becky Barrett (if not for her help a lot more of my tasks for the club would be more time consuming), and our four cats. I like to travel, spend time with family and work around the house."
What's your greatest Kiwanis achievement?
"I spearheaded the drive to replace the playground equipment at what is known as the Kiwanis playground, across from the . The club donated over $15,000 toward the purchase of the equipment with donations from a few businesses and a grant from Lehigh County, obtained with the help of the . It was erected by borough employees. The playground is used extensively -- especially during the baseball/softball season."
How would you improve Emmaus if you could?
"If there was one thing that I believe our community could use, it would be a community center. Maybe one day...."