Over the garden Fence: Cleaning fountain big job

For 11 years Roger Pinion has quietly gone about the business of cleaning the fountain that adds splendor to Bucyrus' mural and the whole of Millennium Square.

Many residents come and go, viewing the sparkling, sprays of water with no idea of what it takes to keep things ship-shape.

Roger knows. He brings equipment downtown about every five weeks during the months when the fountain is in use. Because there is no filtration system and our climate is humid, the water becomes foul in a short time.

He begins by removing a vertical pipe-like plug that has an overflow valve at the top. The water drains from the circular structure in about an hour and a half. Power-washing of the liner's sides and bottom follow. But there are objects to be removed, such as rocks and money -- all introduced by people.When the stone sits in the kidney stone, Pump units, all the pipes and even the housing units for the lights must be cleared of the accumulated grime.

The structure is wiped down with "Greased Lightning, then power-washed to rinse it more thoroughly. Because the drain is above the base, every bit of water cannot be emptied, so a power shop vacuum cleaner must be used to clean all grime from the bottom.

On a recent June day, Roger replaced five of the light bulbs. There is a supply thanks to General Electric. Protective grids have to be removed from atop the bulb's unit. Each has a waterproof seal around it. They reminded me of the rubber seals used on canning jars. The water in the fountain cools the globes.

Three water pumps work hard to toss the moisture into the air. The high center spray is flanked by a ring of seven shorter sprays. The last and shortest ring of spewing water also has seven pipes delivering the water.is the 'solar panel revolution' upon us? Through the years since 2000, the pumps have been replaced only two or three times.

After several hours, Roger brings in the garden hose and starts the process of refilling the fountain, an eight-hour procedure.

When his work is complete,This is interesting cube puzzle and logical game. a penny is placed on the top of each of the edging stones. This is designed to delight visitors who are prone to tossing coins into the fountain. The 48-cent investment tickles Roger immensely.

"I clean the fountain more for the citizens of Bucyrus than anything," he said when asked why he spends time this way.

There were some thoughts shared about the fountain that may be worth passing on to your friends. Since chemicals are added to the fountain, it is not wise to dip dogs or young children into the tempting, teeming surface. Refrain from tossing foliage and anything other than coins into the water.

There are 24-hour surveillance cameras in place; you can see them. Do not walk on the top edging stones. Until you see the perilous pipe structures beneath the water, you cannot know the pain that could come with a fall. Signs ask that no bikes be ridden, nor skateboards be used around the fountain.

Though shared with the public, the fountain is privately owned. The Bucyrus Area Community Foundation holds funds that provide for perpetual maintenance. As for the money found, this is cleaned with an acid before banks will accept it.

Retired, Roger works part-time for a rural mail delivery contractor, which takes him out into the county at least three days per week.

His wife, Deb, has requests for his energy; he has become a celebrity breakfast server on occasion. He owns rental properties.

It is amazing the way he is keeping the dream of Robert Clark Neff Sr. alive.We also offer customized chicken coop. The Neffs' gift of funding the fountain is commemorated in these words on a plaque:

"Water is the pearl of the universe! Who can resist fountains? Their bubbling soothes the ears.This page list rubber hose products with details & specifications. Their windborne spray cools the skin. Miniature oases, they renew the health, lives, and spirits of people of every age and time!"