CONTINUING: THE WEATHERLY HERALD ESTABLISHED 1880–145th YEAR, NO. 34
GREATER WHITE HAVEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE started off 2025 with a new slate of officers, and lots of plans for the coming year. Shown seated at left is president Karen Medvitz, with vice-president Danielle McCoy. Standing from left are Ashley Kujat, director of marketing; Chuck Stoffa, director of economic development; Gladys Roberts, secretary; and Linda Szoke, treasurer. Seth Isenberg, director of community engagement, was not present when the photo was taken. The Chamber has many plans for 2025. All of last year’s events will return, with some tweaks and changes. There will be three Main Street Market Days, and the summer festival will return, with a new (old) name—the Jam Below the Dam. Up next is the annual Fish Stocking event; details soon.
JH: Ruth Isenberg
Selert retains Packer chair
by Jim Dino
Robert Selert was re-elected chairman of the Packer Township Board of Supervisors at their annual reorganization meeting Monday, January 6 . Supervisor Suzie Gerhard was named vice-chairman, and Supervisor Terry Davis was named township roadmaster. Stephanie Stolpe was named township secretary/treasurer, and open records officer, Attorney Robert Yurchak was named township solicitor and solicitor for the township planning commission, and attorney Greg Mousseau was named township zoning board solicitor.
Barry Isett and Associates was appointed township zoning officer and building code officer. Willian Brior was named township sewage enforcement officer, and Robert Fugate alternate sewage enforcement officer. Carbon Engineering was named township engineer. Colleen Gerhard was named to the township planning commission, and Suzie Gerhard was named as a planning commission alternate.
Barbara Genetti was named as a member of the township zoning hearing board, and Cathy Coangelo as an alternate to the zoning hearing board.
THE JOURNAL-HERALD
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Telephone (570) 215-0204
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(JAY E. HOLDER, Co-Publisher 1954-1997; CLARA HOLDER, Co-Publisher 1954-2014)
White Haven Center could be on the market this year…but don’t hold your breath. The Pennsylvania Senate committee hearing last week in Hamburg to seek answers from the Department of General Services offered some hope that those empty buildings may see some constructive uses in the future, but it also exposed the delays that the state government’s processes impose.
Representatives of the Department of General Services explained what happens when a state property is no longer used for its original purpose. First, it is offered to other state agencies. For example, the old Harrisburg State Hospital is after 10 years vacant being converted to a unified crime lab for the Pennsylvania State Police and other agencies. If no agencies want all, or even part of the property, the department which used it must declare it as surplus. In the case of White Haven Center and the other two facilities, Polk and Hamburg, that is the Department of Health and Human Services. At that point, it is prepared to be advertised for sale.
Properties are either sold by competitive bid, or directly conveyed to a developer for a specific project as approved by the legislature. The process is controlled through the Pennsylvania Administrative Code of 1929. DGS Deputy Secretary of Business Operations Catherine Califano said that properties are sold on eMarketplace, and that developers interested in a specific property can register on the DGS website for email alerts.
DGS is currently contracting for surveying at the White Haven Center, and Califano said they hope to have it approved by the legislature to be on the market this year. She stressed that developers can come to the DGS Real Estate division even before that happens with ideas for use of the property. Find the DGS at pa.gov
While the information was well received, considerable frustration was also expressed by local officials from areas around all three facilities that are now empty. The consensus was that there had been inadequate planning when the decision was made to close them, with insufficient input from the communities affected.
Califano invited and encouraged input now. But it was clear the process is going to take a lot of time.
Archives
From The Journal-Herald January 20, 2005
Clara Holder, Publisher
Weatherly Borough Council raised electricity rates, effective in February. It reflected changes in the rate Weatherly and other members of the consortium were charged, including previous increases that had not been passed on to consumers.
Heritage Hill opened its Shepherd’s Garden unit to provide care for patients with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other forms of memory impairment.
A front page picture showed the new officers of the White Haven Detachment of the Marine Corps League. Brain Travis was Commandant, Jack Swartz was Senior ViceCommandant, Rich Welker was Junior Vice-Commander, Tom McAvoy was Senior Past Commandant, Paul Dixon was Sergeant at Arms, Ed Wiegand was Paymaster, Lou DelVecchio was Chaplain, Don Padget was Judge Advocate, and Trustees were Bill Boyer, Tony Galardi, Mark Strohl and J.C. Kessler.
A Letter to the Editor updated the community on the status of the ice rink set up at Lehigh Park. The White Haven Fire Company and some members of the community helped fill it, and with the right weather, it was expected to be ready for skating by the weekend. The Recreation Board was planning a family skate night, and accepting donations to help care for the rink.
The Weatherly Senior Citizens Friendship Club held installation of officers, with outgoing president Joe D’Andrea installing his successor Nancy Remaley, and other officers.
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in White Haven announced plans for a Pancake and Sausage supper in February, all proceeds to benefit the organ fund.
Sunday School students at Salem United Church of Christwere selling doughnuts for Doughnut Day, as well as sticky buns.
Ice storms caused power outages throught the area, with temperatures below zero one night, according to Seth’s Sightings.
Seth also wrote about a newspaper association board meeting we attended in Philadelphia. The weekend included a dinner at City Tavern, the oldest colonial era tavern in the city, and a trip to the Italian Market.
Both the White Haven and Weatherly libraries planned events for children. In White Haven, a craft session was scheduled at the White Haven Community Building to make Thank You cards and letters to be sent to the troops in Iraq, along with homemade cookies (bakers were asked to refrain from using any chocolate, and to pack cookies carefully for shipping).
In Weatherly, a storytime was scheduled at the Presbyterian Church with eighth grader Sarah Weigand as guest reader.
This was evidently the issue for officer installations, as St. Nicholas Knights of Columbus also was featured with a large photo. Those inducted included FDD Joseph F. Kovack, Recorder Raymond Slezak, Guard Peter Yagalla, GK Robert R. Chippi, Lecturer Joseph D’Andrea, treasurer PGK Albert Donadi, DGK James Warnagiris, trustee Richard Wiskoski, Chancellor Frank Raynock, treasurer John Raynock, warden Thomas Douglas, chaplain the Rev. James Burdess, guard John R. Meier, assistain chaplain Deacon Rayond Wilkinson, finanical secretary PGK Joseph A. Thomas, and alternate trustee Joseph Grega.
George Jarick was elected Chief of the Dennison Township Volunteer Fire Company, with Jay Marotta as First Assistant.
Public Notice
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Lehigh Township Supervisors will conduct their regular monthly meetings on the first Monday of the month during the Year 2025, unless otherwise noted. The meeting dates are as follows:
February 3, 2025
March 3, 2025
April 7, 2025
May 5, 2025
June 2, 2025
December 1, 2025
July 7, 2025
August 4, 2025
September 2, 2025 (Tuesday)
October 6, 2025
November 3, 2025
All meetings for 2025 will begin at 1:00 P.M. in the Lehigh Township Municipal Building, 1741 S. Lehigh Gorge Drive, Weatherly, Pa. 18255. PLEASE NOTE: In the event of inclement weather on a Monday, the meeting will be held on the next day (Tuesday) at the same time and location.
Carol Ann Lenahan, Secretary
Pennsylvania Senator David Argall is sworn into office for an additional term as the state senator for Schuylkill, Carbon, and southern Luzerne counties. Shown from left are Sen. Wayne Langerholc (R-35), Sen. Kim Ward (R-39), Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), Sen. Elder Vogel (R-47), and Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41).
Lisa Stuart sworn in as Penn Lake councilwoman
by Suzanne Winters
Newly appointed Councilmember Lisa Stuart was sworn in by Mayor Tom Carter during the January 9 Penn Lake borough council work session. Stuart replaces outgoing borough council president Paul Rogan.
Immediately following this, Council held a short regular monthly meeting.
There being no audience comments on any of the meeting’s agenda items, Corey Beltz was nominated as president, which he accepted. Councilmember Sue George will remain vice-president. All other positions and appointments remain the same.
Mayor Tom Carter thanked Rogan for his 11 years of service to the community, noting it was strange not seeing him at a meeting after all that time at the table. He also welcomed
new member Stuart, and wished councilmember Beltz good luck as the new council president. There were no Zoning permits issued per secretary Karen Burden. She noted a Zoning Hearing Board was scheduled for January 13 at 6 p.m. for the DiPipi property variance request.
Councilman John Burden said the non-permitted property that had been seen advertising on Airbnb as a short-term rental appears to have stopped doing so.
Beltz’s Sewer report noted the PENNVEST loan would be paid off December 1, 2025. The balance remaining to be paid is $112,315.19.
Stuart noted that the Dam Advisory Group met with borough Solicitor Dan Mulhern on January 8, but there was nothing to report regarding the meeting at this time.
PENN LAKE PARK BOROUGH Mayor Tom Carter administers the Oath of Office to new council member Lisa Stuart.
obituAries
BRIAN A. MOORE
Brian A. Moore, of Mountain Top, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025 in Lehigh Valley Cedar Crest.
Born in WilkesBarre, he was the son of the late Harold and Celia Lasman Moore. He was a graduate of Wyoming Valley West High School and earned his Master Degree from University of Pennsylvania. Brian worked as a solar panel salesman for Pinnacle Exteriors and was a supporter of Mountaintop Family Church.
He enjoyed singing karaoke, going to plays and concerts and listening to music. He loved watching all sports, especially baseball and was an avid Yankees Fan. He enjoyed humor, watching cartoons and was a chocolate lover.
Left to cherish his memory is his son, Joshua Moore of
Bethlehem; daughter Amanda Moore of Clarks Summit; grandchildren, Marina and Katarina Moore; sisters, Jill Hoover and her husband
Daniel of Mountain Top, Cindy Jerrytone of Nanticoke; numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral service was conducted January 12, with Pastor Brian Knorr officiating at Desiderio-Lehman Funeral and Cremation, 436 S. Mountain Blvd. Mountain Top.
Lenten food from Tresckow Hosey
The Tresckow Hosey will sell its famous Lenten food every Friday in Lent beginning Friday, March 8 through Good Friday, April 18.
On the menu will be halushkie with potato dumplings; stove rags; the dryest potato pancakes you can get anywhere; pizza without toppings, Manhattan Clam Chowder, and fried cod dinners with fresh-cut fries. All the food is homemade.
Orders are taken beginning the Wednesday before each Friday beginning 4 p,m, by calling 570-861-8110.
ROSIE CARBERRY
Rosie Carberry, 57, of Wapwallopen, passed away on Tuesday morning, January 7, 2025 at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore. Born in Hazleton, she was the daughter of
the late Raymond and Margaret Skitzki. She was a graduate of Hazleton High School and Hazleton Career Center.
Rosie enjoyed an occasional trip to the casino and had luck with the machines and lottery tickets. She loved outdoor activities like gardening and riding on the back of her
husband’s Harley.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers Robert and Raymond Skitzki.
Left to cherish her memory is her loving husband of 30 years, Anthony Carberry; daughters Amber Carberry and her fiance Jon of White Haven, Brittany Carberry of Dorrance and her boyfriend Brian; brother Richard Skitzki of Hazleton; sister Shirley Sconfienza of Pottsville; numerous nieces and nephews and her beloved cat Sophie.
Funeral service was conducted on January 10, from the Desiderio-Lehman Funeral and Cremation, 436 S. Mountain Blvd, Mountain Top with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary’s Church, Dorrance.
Weaver to chair Dennison Township supervisors
by Suzanne Winters
Dennison Township
Supervisors met January 6for their reorganization meeting, and followed this with the regular monthly meeting.
Sheila Weaver was nominated as chairman, Chris Bender as vice-chair, Kathleen Stortz will remain secretary/treasurer. All other necessary appointments were affirmed. Salaries and mileage were also set.
Monthly meetings will continue on the first Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Township building. Township business hours remain the second and fourth Saturday of each month between the hours of 10 a.m. and Noon.
The regular meeting was quite short as there was not much on the agenda.
The township will advertise an ordinance setting the new salary rate for the supervisors at $3,145 per year.
Supervisors are working on a revised fee schedule for Zoning. There was no Engineering or Zoning report available.
Roadmaster Jim Yackiel reported a light month with some branch cleanup on Red Shale Pit and Peatmoss Roads, some culvert cleaning, plowing and routine maintenance.
The secretary read the Fire report which included 5 calls requiring 5 ½ hours of service, and 2 ½ hours of maintenance.
ACS can help area cancer patients get to treatments
Greater Hazleton Area cancer patients are reminded that the American Cancer Society Road to Recovery program or our area is in operation.
The American Cancer Society Road to Recovery program provides transportation to and from treatment for people with cancer who do not have a ride or who are unable to drive themselves. How does the program work?
Priority one, if you are a cancer patient looking for a ride to a cancer treatment appointment you must first register at cancer.org or call 570-459-1212.
Patients must be traveling to a cancer-related medical appointment. Other eligibility
requirements may apply. For example, a caregiver may need to accompany a patient who cannot walk without help or is under the age of 18. It can take several business days to coordinate your ride, so please call 570-459-1212 well in advance of your appointment date.
Driving hours are flexible, and rides are typically provided Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Drivers can restrict availability to only a certain day(s) of the week or every day or whatever amount of time they wish to provide.
The general geographic area covered by volunteer drivers is the Greater Hazleton Area. Drivers do not have to drive
outside of Greater Hazleton if they don’t want to. However, there are usually a few drivers who volunteer to drive the extra miles sometimes needed for treatment, such as Wilkes-Barre, Danville, Philadelphia and outlying areas, like into Carbon or Schuylkill Counties.
We can’t say thank you enough to those volunteers who have stepped up to help our area cancer patients by taking the training program and agreeing to drive our patients to appointments. Can you imagine how devastating it would be for a patient to have an appointment and for a variety of reasons not being able to get there? Volunteer drivers can literally help to save a life.
More drivers are needed. Volunteering as a Road to Recovery driver will put you at the heart of the American Cancer Society’s mission and fulfill a critical need for cancer patients. If you own or have regular access to a safe, reliable vehicle, then you’re already on the road to volunteering. Volunteer drivers must be between the ages of 18 and 84, have a valid driver’s license, pass a background check, show proof of COVID-19 vaccination, and have access to a safe, reliable car.
To learn more about becoming a Road to Recovery volunteer, please visit our Road to Recovery volunteer page at cancer.org or call 570-459-1212.
Malloy to continue as Foster Supervisors’ chair
by Jim Dino
Wilson Malloy was re-elected chairman of the Foster Township Board of Supervisors at their annual reorganization meeting Monday, January 6.
In addition to being reappointed as chairman of the supervisors, Malloy was also appointed sewer liaison at a salary of $450 per month, and the township’s representative to the Mountain Council of Governments (MCOG).
Supervisor Todd Titus was appointed vice-chairman of the board of supervisors, as well
as township roadmaster at a salary of $450 per month, and the township’s delegate to the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors’ annual convention.
Supervisor John Pavuk was appointed secretary-treasurer of the board of supervisors at a salary of $575 per month. Pavuk was also appointed police liaison at a salary of $300 per month, and the township’s voting delegate to the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors’ annual convention.. Working supervisors will
be paid $16 per hour. All salaries will be suggested to the township auditors, who set township salaries.
Wendy Zubick was appointed township secretary at a salary of $20 per hour, Brian Maso was reappointed township zoning and code enforcement officer at a salary of $900 per month, and Tom Barna was reappointed alternate code enforcement officer at a salary of $20 per hour.
Walter Jones was appointed a township auditor until the end of 2025. Jones was also
appointed to the township vacancy board.
Mark Blasko and Greg Cappozelli were appointed to the township zoning hearing board for identical five-year terms until the end of 2029.
Pat King was appointed to a four-year term on the township planning commission until the end of 2028. Adam Gerlach was appointed to the township’s appeals board.
Attorney Donald Karpowich was reappointed township solicitor, at $135 per hour, and his law firm as planning commission solicitor at the same rate.
The Slusser Law Firm was appointed zoning board solicitor, at $90 per hour, and appeals board solicitor, at $75 per hour.
Other appointments made by the supervisors: Penn Eastern, township engineer; Jack Varaly, township planning consultant; Debra Ferko, township billing clerk; Dave Popiak, sewage enforcement officer; Maureen Minnick, alternate sewage enforcement officer; and Paul Malloy, Emergency Management coordinator, which Wilson Malloy abstained from voting on.
The supervisors will continue to hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m.
Carbon County property transfers through December 15
Banks Township
John M. Smryl to Nelson Perez Crespo, Hazleton, property at 49 Tamaqua St., $120,000.
Tax Claim Bureau of Carbon County to Michael Zavitsky, 11 Lincoln Circle, Junedale, property on Lincoln Circle, $2,200.
Martiza Lorenzo to David Keller, 18 E. Market St., P.O. Box 146, Tresckow, property at 18 E. Market St., $1,000.
Beaver Meadows
Raymond Zeleznock to Sandra Abdulrahman, Hazleton, property at 8-10 E. Broad St., $55,000.
Regina Coyle Blew to Robert Blew, 33 E. Main St., Junedale, property at 77 Church St., $1.
Kidder Township
Mark Lattanzio to Jacob Menapace, Lancaster, property at 53 Midway, Lake Harmony, $380,000.
Susan Cuscani to James Martin Egan, 311 Golden Oaks Drive, White Haven, property
at 311 Golden Oaks Drive, $313,800.
John Henry Hersker III to Dianna Deignan, Cape May, New Jersey, property at 72 Greenwood Road, Lake Harmony, $450,000.
Reflections at Lake Harmony, LLC, to JMR Enterprises, LLC, Allentown, 1.523 acres, parcel No. 19C-21-A1A, Lake Harmony, $150,000.
William Matthew Snyder to JJT Farm, LLC, Paoli, property at 46 Crest Drive, Lake Harmony, $650,000.
San Banfill to Thomas Dutzer, Commerce City, Colorado, property at 26 Laurelwoods Drive, Lake Harmony, $407,500.
36 S Lake DR Holdings, LLC, to JMR Enterprises, LLC, Allentown, property at 36 S. Lake Drive, Lake Harmony, $1,400,000.
M34 Holdings LLC, to JMR Enterprises, LLC, Allentown, property at 34 S. Lake Drive, Lake Harmony, $1,400,000.
Loma Holdings, LLC, to AARV 4 Property, LLC, Lake Harmony,
property at 16 Sassafrass Road, Lake Harmony, $629,000.
Tax Claim Bureau of Carbon County to Jason Keller, 1i33 State Route 903, Jim Thorpe, property at 114 Lake Harmony Road, Lake Harmony, 225,000.
Tax Claim Bureau of Carbon County to Jason Paul Montague, 17 Vineland Road, Albrightsville, Lot 188, Section D, Holiday Poconos, $1,595.
Stacy Rae Dean to L & B Management Partners, LLC, Hatboro, property at 63 Tallwood Drive, Albrightsville, $76,000.
Raymond A. Motto to Michael E. Meier, P.O. Box 473, Lake Harmony, Split Rock Lot 4, Section E, $95,000.
Donna Degnan to Melinda Cheryl Biddle, Honey Brook, property at 59 Midlake Drive, No. 1021, Lake Harmony, $375,000.
Lausanne Township
Tax Claim Bureau of Carbon County to RCS Capital Group, Miami, Florida, property at 2385 Buck Mountain Road, $43,100.
The Journal-Herald costs $45 per year outside of Carbon and Luzerne Counties; $40 in Carbon & Luzerne Counties—less than buying at the store. Send the form below with your check, or call 570-215-0204 xt304 to order and pay with a credit card. Make check payable to: CANWIN Mail to: 211 Main St., White Haven PA 18661
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Lehigh Township
Mistabitta, LLC, to Jessica Lyn Gower, 101 Buck Mountain Road, Weatherly, property at 101 Buck Mountain Road, $325,000.
Weatherly
Curt Thomas to M & T Realty, Inc, Hazleton, property at SR4010, East Main Streeyt, $244,709.50.
Weatherly Borough to Gerard E. Grega Sr., 2432 Wetzel Run Drive, Weatherly, property at 39 Wilbur St., $26,789.
Paula A. Mengle to Tyler Herling, 419 Carbon St., Weatherly, property at 419 Carbon St., $155,000.
Hillclimb dates set
The Weatherly Hillclimb will be held the weekends of June 7-8 and September 13-14 in the Borough of Weatherly. Drivers from all over the eastern United States and Canada will try to take the Miracle Minute Mile.
Non-profit groups from the Weatherly area will provide delicious food and refreshments. For more information, call 570-582-6292.
Lehigh Gorge Notary
Liz Berger has been providing Tag & Title, DCNR, Boat and Fish Commission, and general Notary services in White Haven for over 30 years. As the local community Notary Public with years of experience, there is no question she can’t answer. Find her at Lehigh Gorge Campground, 4585 State Street in East Side, or under the More tab at: lehighgorgecampground.com 570-443-9191
Legion Theatre Group is searching for a home
by Ruth Isenberg
White Haven has its own performing arts organiation. The Legion Theatre Group is a 501C3 tax exempt registered charitable organization, with a board of directors, talented particpants, and a loyal following.
What it doesn’t have is a home.
The group has put on productions in several locations, including a performance at Penn Lake, but as board chairman Rick Markham notes, they’ve only been able to have one show in White Haven, during this summer’s 200th birthday celebration at the Soapy Bee.
They want to change that. The group is looking for an indoor heated space they can convert into a small theater, to produce orginal work as well as licensed performances.
An unused portion of an existing commercial space would be ideal, Markham said, a basement or an attic. He’s done this successfully in the past, most notably for Gravestone Manor, the haunted attraction that celebrated its 25th season this year in Wilkes-Barre. He’s worked with local fire and code officials, and notes that the project has raised over half a million dollars for United Way.
Other Legion Theatre Board members include Linda Miller (Treasurer), Margie Bastow (Secretary), Renee Monahan (Director), Nina Kemp (Director) and Rebecca Maranuk (Director). Their website is www.legiontheatregroup.org
Actors who perform for LTG were busy in productions all around the area this holiday season: Nina Kemp performed
in White Christmas at Musicbox in Sugarloaf, Matt Alexander and Grey Blackmore had lead roles in It’s a Wonderful Life at Little Theatre of Wilkes Barre (Markham was Technical Director for It’s a Wonderful Life handling construction of an elaborate set), and Bobby Maso performed as Charles Dickens in Sugarloaf.
Miller and Markham are both serving on the White Haven Blueprint Team, and long-term hope to establish a dedicated permanent auditorium space for the performing arts in White Haven. This could host plays and also be utilized by other organizations for concerts, dance recitals, history lectures, etc.
That’s “in a perfect world,” according to Miller. In the short term, they have access to grants that are available to help rural communities establish performing arts facilities. The problem is, most grants require a number of successful theatrical productions within the community before an organization qualifies. This becomes a chicken and egg problem.
“We are looking for a local business or property owner, who supports the arts, to offer on short-term loan a heated indoor space that could serve as a temporary theater in White Haven. Ideally this would be vacant space (perhaps above or
below a business) in a building already in use commercially. Between 1,000 and 2,000 square feet would be ideal.”
The group would need at least a 6-month occupancy commitment to justify the work involved in setting up the space for a play. Legion would be willing to split any profit on the shows in lieu of paying rent. There also may be tax advantages to donating space to a tax-exempt charity. Interested parties contact: legiontheatregroup@gmail.com or 570-436-6815
In the meantime, “My first love in theater. I’m going to go wherever I can do shows,” Markham said. “But I would
really like to do those shows here at home.”
Right now one of his original plays has been selected by DIVA Theater Company in Scranton for their One Act Festival at the Olde Brick Theater. Match #365 is a romanic comedy. A couple meets on New Year’s Eve at a restaurant for a Tinder date. The date starts awkwardly. It becomes evenmore awkward, when the gentleman learns he is the lady’s 365th blind date this year.
If you’d like to see it, the run dates are January 30 through February 2. Tickets are $15 each, and can be reserved by calling 570-209-7766.
MATCH #365 in rehearsal at the Olde Brick Theater in Scranton, the kind of space the Legion Theatre Group would like to set up in White Haven.
Gluck to head Kidder
Twp. Supervisors; hearing for volunteer service held
by Ruth Isenberg
Ray Gluck was tapped to retain his position as chair of the Kidder Township Board of Supervisors by unanimous vote at their January 6 reorganization meeting. Wilson Klotzman will serve as vice-chairman.
Klotzman was also appointed as roadmaster.
Atty. Robert Yurchak was reappointed township solicitor, with an annual retainer of $6,000 and an hourly rate of $100. He was also appointed as Planning Commission solicitor. Cindy Norato was approved as secretary/treasurer with a $200,000 bond, and manager Suzanne Brooks was named assistant secretary/treasurer, also with a bond of $200,000.
ARRO Engineering was named township engineers on a split vote, with supervisor Bruce Berger voting no, and Gluck, Klotzman, Torres and Louis Pantages voting yes.
Meetings were set for 5:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Berger voted no, preferring the fourth Thursday at 5 p.m. The solicitor will be consulted, and it may be changed if he is available then. In a special meeting supervisors approved incurring a lease not to exceed $91,240.69
for a 2025 Ford Police Utility Vehicle.
Volunteer Service Credit/Stipend Program
The reorganization was preceded by a hearing on a proposed volunteer service credit/stipend program for Kidder Township Emergency Services.
There were few comments on the proposal. Charlotte Blackwell asked if the program was active in any other local townships. Gluck said that it was, and the solicitor used some of the data from those areas to set up the Kidder program.
Eugene Getz, of Albrightsville Volunteer Fire Company, noted that he is no longer able to fight fires because of his health. He asked if he was still eligible for the program.
Supervisor Noel Torres answered that the program was designed so that board members in good standing, who participate in fundraising and maintenance of the company, would be eligible.
Blackwell asked if the number of required hours of service would be spelled out. Gluck said that details would be included in a resolution that would be adopted at a future meeting.
deAN’s
Alvernia
Seth Zimmerman of Weatherly, majoring in Applied Science
East Stroudsburg University
Antonio Colecio, a Exercise Science major from Weatherly; Ainslee Green, a Biology major from White Haven; Bethany Houser, a Athletic Training major from Weatherly; Blaise Puscavage, a Communication major from White Haven; Grace Legg, a Communication Sciences & Disorders major from White Haven
Kutztown University
Jackie C Guth of Weatherly, Mellanie Ann Marshman of Weatherly, Jacob Alexander Solonoski of Weatherly, Mason Stewart of Weatherly, Reina Brooke Whalen of Weatherly
Lebanon Valley College
Jessica Moser, of Weatherly, is pursuing a bachelor of arts in creative writing and English at The Valley and is a graduate of Weatherly Area High School; Ashley Pleban, of Weatherly, is pursuing a bachelor of science in early childhood education at The Valley and is a graduate of Marian Catholic High School.
Pennsylvania Western University
Alex Covelens of White Haven, who studies at the Edinboro Campus.
Slippery Rock University
Dennis Kramer from White Haven
Need an Extra Copy of this issue?
The Journal-Herald is for sale at: White Haven Market, Fuel-On, and White Haven Exxon in White Haven, Wawa at the Turnpike in Kidder, Weasel’s in Dennison, and TJ’s One Stop in Weatherly.
librAry corNer
Come inside at WHACL
Are you looking for something to do indoors during this very cold January? Remember the White Haven Area Community Library has some fun indoor activities for you to enjoy.
The Scrabble Club will meet on January 16 at 6 p.m. Both novice and experienced players are welcome to attend. Bring your Scrabble dictionary if you have one. Cheat sheets with helpful two and three letter words will be provided. It’s a fun and relaxing non-competitive group.
The Fiber Arts Group will meet on January 23 from 10 a.m. to Noon. Join this fun and friendly group while you work on your knitting, crochet or cross stitch projects. Thinking about learning one of these crafts? The folks in the group would be happy to provide some start up help.
The Romantasy Book Club (over 18 years of age please) will meet on January 22, and their chosen read is New York Times #1 bestseller Quicksilver by Callie Hart. The book is available in the library in hardcover, or if you prefer, you can borrow a preloaded Kindle.
Join us for Lego Club on January 18. The theme will be Carnival Rides. Not a Lego fan but would like to have some free play time with other kids at the library? That’s okay too. There are art supplies, board games and puzzles for you to enjoy. Light snacks are provided. Bring
your own water bottle. Kids aged 7 through 15 are welcome to join us at the library from 12 to 1:30 p.m.
Tot Time is on January 25 from 10:15 to 11 a.m. Kids aged 6 and under are invited to do a simple craft and listen to a story. Parents are requested to stay with their child.
There is another Grandparents Raising Grandchildren support seminar set for Tuesday, January 21, at 6:30 p.m. Joan Gower will facilitate the group. The library play areas will be available for school aged children. Drop ins are welcome, however if childcare is needed for younger children please reach out to the library in advance. Light snacks will be provided.
February is National Love Your Library Month. We hope you will join us for some fun during the month. Plans are now underway. Please remember to check the Facebook page for additional info and special events, as well as in future Journal-Herald issues.
The WHAC Library follows the Crestwood School District for weather related closings. If the school is closed, the library is closed. For weather events on days when school is not in session, the decision to close the library will be made at least one hour prior to its scheduled opening and posted on the library Facebook page.
WACL DRAWING: Stop in to the Weatherly Area Community LIbrary and purchase a chance to win either this beautiful hand-carved wooden American flag, or this Eyone diamond painting. Chances are $1 each or 6 for $5.
JH: Ruth Isenberg
An
update from the White Haven Food Pantry
This update on the activities and data of the White Haven Food Pantry for the past year was provided by coordinator Cathy Salsman.
We did struggle some in 2024 as we did not receive as many basics from Weinberg as we have in the past or as were needed. We did switch to delivery from Weinberg as Bruce Johnson is no longer able to pick up our orders due to his caretaker role. We have had good help stocking the deliveries from Juan Colon, Jim Quinn, Deb Herr, Danny Hergert, Tom Carter and our new volunteer Matt Shope.
The staff who remain at the White Haven Center continue to support us and are willing to help with anything we need. Our volunteers are amazing, those who come when it’s their church’s turn and our growing
number of regulars who fill the gaps!
We had a sad loss back in February, our generous angel passed away. For years she had donated many White Haven Market gift cards for our clients. The town of White Haven and surrounding area continues to be generous to the Pantry. We received many monetary donations from individuals and also the Lions Club, the Odd Fellows and Aqua. We also received 12,851 pounds of canned and dry goods from individuals, all 5 churches in town, Wawa, Weis, the communities of Hickory Hills and Penn Lake, Thimbleberry, Soapy Bee, the Cigar Box in Hazleton, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, YMCA, White Water Challenge and ID Logistics. (1 item=1pound as defined by state regulation). We also purchased 10,379 pounds of food with donated funds.
As we end 2024 we have 97 households signed up to participate in the Pantry program. These are comprised of 215 people 38 children, 92 adults and 85 seniors. On average we distribute 82 households a month and 982 bins of food were distributed in 2024.
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Weatherly Area Elementary Students of the Month for December are, first row from left, 1st Grade - Cito Torre and Jacob Barilla, 2nd Grade - Korah Gilbert and Lincoln Aneskevich; back row, 3rd Grade - Faith Feaster and Noah Graham, 4th Grade - Miranda Caso and Roman Robertson, 5th Grade - Skylah Dennis and Kaylee Harris.
WeAtherly AreA school NeWs
by Elizabeth DiGennaro & Jillian Esposito
AMERICAN LEGION
AUXILIARY: Any students interested in participating in the American Legion Essay contest (What America the Beautiful Means to Me) should see Dr. Leach for more details.
SGA: The Student Government Association will be selling roses during the school lunches from February 3 to February 14. You can buy a rose for a loved one for $1.
WAMS lists Students of Month for December
Middle School Principal Anthony DeSpirito has announced the names of the students who were nominated and selected as Weatherly Area Middle School “Students of the Month” for December. The award is based on academic achievement, attendance, extra-curricular involvement, and service to school and community.
Maddie McGee, daughter of John and Melissa McGee, Weatherly is the 6th grade student of the month. Maddie is a member of the gifted program at school. She is also a member of band, chorus, color guard and science club. After school, Maddie enjoys Girl Scouts and soccer. Maddie helps with her
church by being a pre-school teacher, helps with BGMC fundraiser, and babysitting.
Lilah Gower, daughter of Edward and Jessica Gower, Weatherly is the 7th grade student of the month. Lilah is an avid softball player. She plays for the Carbon County Copperheads 12u softball team and the Pocono Pride 12u softball team. Lilah is also a member of middle school chorus.
Jillian Esposito, daughter of Joseph and Brenda Esposito, Weatherly, is the 8th grade student of the month. Jillian is a middle school cheerleader, as well as a softball player. Jillian also enjoys spending time with her friends.
Weatherly Jr. High Basketball Roundup
Weatherly Area juniors pick up Schuylkill League victories
GIRLS
Eighth Grade
Weatherly Area 27, Tamaqua 12 Maci Kane’s 10 points showed the way as the Lady Wreckers defeated Tamaqua.
Sophia Durham pitched in with seven points and Katie Knock contributed six points and a team-high 12 rebounds for Weatherly Area.
Shallee Gormley paced Tamaqua with five points.
Pottsville 22, Weatherly Area 20 Pottsville slipped past the Lady Wreckers behind Takiera Curry’s 10 points.
For Weatherly Area, Mikayla Pugh scored nine points and Macey Kane had four.
Blue Mountain 33, Weatherly Area 23
Avery Kirby and Haley Banonis each scored eight points in Blue Mountain’s victory.
Katie Knock led all scorers with 10 points for Weatherly and Mikayla Pugh followed with six.
Seventh Grade
Weatherly Area 39, Tamaqua 25 Shayna Pugh deposited 13 points and Halena Williams finished with nine, leading the Lady Wreckers to the double-digit win.
Joy Vidzicki scored 13 for Tamaqua.
Weatherly Area 32, Pottsville 21 Mikayla Pugh led a balanced attack with seven points as the Lady Wreckers knocked off Pottsville.
Riley Bachart and Shayna Pugh each scored six for the winners.
Heidi McGinley scored 15 of Pottsville’s 21 points.
Blue Mountain 28, Weatherly Area 24
Quinn Bonner scored eight points, Addie Baldwin had seven, and Blue Mountain eked out the four-point win.
Riley Bachart’s six points paced the Lady Wreckers.
Halena Williams and Sophia Durham both scored four.
BOYS
Eighth Grade
Pottsville 54, Weatherly Area 23 Eli Brown scored a game-high 11 points and Jaxon McKeegan had seven, but Pottsville had the better depth in posting the Schuylkill League win.
Gochowski scored nine points and Baker had eight for the balanced Crimson Tide.
Seventh Grade Pottsville 52, Weatherly Area 18 Morrison tallied nine points, O’Brien followed with eight and Pottsville eased to the league victory.
Carter Minnick topped Weatherly with five points.
Remembering Chi Chi Rodriguez
by Christopher Brunozzi
As we start the new golf season, let’s take a moment to remember Chi Chi Rodriguez. Born Juan Rodriguez, Chi Chi was a nickname borrowed from Chi Chi Flores, a Puerto Rican baseball player. A laborer’s son who spent his youth in poverty, Chi Chi’s life began to change after he made a makeshift golf club from a guava tree, crafted a metal golf ball, and learned how to play golf.
The first Puerto Rican player to make it to the PGA tour, he won the 1963 Denver Open, the first of eight. Later, he played on the Senior Tour and was the first golfer to win the same tournament in three consecutive years.
Widely known for exuberance on the course, Chi Chi would celebrate a birdie or eagle with
a trademark sword dance, which he said was derived from Spanish heritage, bullfighting especially. “Everything revolves around the ring,” he once said. “So, I figured the hole was a bull. I’d stab the ‘the bull,’ dry the blood off, and put the sword back in the scabbard.”
It was part of Rodriguez’s attempt to be authentic. “You’ve got to be different; you’ve got to be yourself in the world. That’s what I always wanted to be.”
He was not only a golfer but also a humanitarian. To help vulnerable and at-risk youth, he formed the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation.
Chi Chi Rodriguez, one of the game’s greats, passed away last year at 88.
From Philadelphia, Christopher Brunozzi writes for The Sports Column.
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15. CISC alternative 16. Swearing-in words
17. Goodwill branch 18. *Artist with most Grammy nominations
20. ALCS counterpart
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23. Drum roll sound 26. Front of building, pl.
30. Get it wrong
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35. Raccoon’s cousin
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40. Isaac of science fiction fame
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7. Certain tray content
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Weatherly Boys Basketball Roundup
Wreckers notch two wins, over .500 at halfway mark
The Weatherly Area boys climbed back over the .500 mark for the season on Saturday, defeating Columbia-Montour Vo-Tech to close out a 2-1 week that also included a Schuylkill League win at Williams Valley and a six-point setback against Division 2 leader Tri-Valley. The Wreckers improved to 6-5 at the midway point of the 22-game season.
Weatherly Area 62, CMVT 37 Niko Saldukas hit for a game-high 21 points, and was joined in double figures by teammates Ian McKeegan (17) and Corbin Wagner (12) as the Wreckers capped a solid week by turning back ColumbiaMontour Vo-Tech in non-league play Saturday.
The visitors kept things close over the first eight minutes and trailed by just one (13-12) after one quarter.
The Wreckers flexed their muscles from there, outscoring CMVT 14-6 in the second quarter and 22-9 in the third to pull away.
Andrew Malick had eight points to lead CMVT.
In junior varsity action, the Wreckers notched a 43-29 win as Brandon Davis (17) and Matt Adler (10) each scored in double digits.
Isaiah Carr topped CMVT with 16 points.
CMVT (37) Mitzel 1 0-0 2, Treon 0 1-2 1, An. Malick 3 0-0 8, Au. Malick 3 0-0 6, T. Brown 2 1-1 5, Morgan 1 0-0 2, Koser 2 0-0 4, Carr 3 0-0 6, B. Brown 1 1-2 3. Totals 16 3-5 37.
3-pointers: An. Malick 2. Saldukas 3, McKeegan, Wagner.
Weatherly Area 71, Williams Valley 46
Corbin Wagner scored 11 points, Niko Saldukas tallied nine and Ian McKeegan eight as Weatherly Area built a 29-14 halftime lead en route to the Schuylkill League Division 2 win at Williams Valley last Thursday. The Wreckers squashed any idea of a Williams Valley comeback with a 20-point third
Weatherly Girls Basketball Roundup
quarter, and closed things out with a 22-point fourth.
Saldukas and McKeegan shared game scoring honors with 23 points apiece, and Wagner followed with 13.
Brady Shompers paced the Vikings with 15 points.
In the junior varsity opener, Williams Valley eked out a 34-33 victory as Gabe Rodriguez scored half of his team’s points and hit five 3-pointers.
Vincent Cuddeford and Brandon Davis each scored 11 for the Wreckers.
The Weatherly Area girls’ basketball team had a busy seven-day stretch, playing four games over that span as the Lady Wreckers moved past the halfway point of their season. Details follow:
Bethlehem Christian 45, Weatherly Area 17 Paige Kreidler and Giana Kasper each scored 14 points and Abby Wilson added 10 to power Bethlehem Christian to the non-league victory over visiting Weatherly. Kelly Reiner scored 10 points to lead the Lady Wreckers’ attack.
3-pointers: Weston. Kreidler 2, Kasper 2, Wilson 2.
Tri-Valley 36, Weatherly Area 9 Tri-
Valley held the visiting Lady Wreckers scoreless through one quarter and built a 19-point halftime lead en route to the Schuylkill League Division 2 win.
Avery Miller scored 13 points and Ava Snyder added an even dozen for the Bulldogs.
Williams Valley scored 19 of the game’s first 21 points and never looked back on its way to the Schuylkill League Division 2
victory in Weatherly.
Sage Smeltz scored nine of her game-high 17 points in that opening quarter for Williams Valley. Mallory Miller added eight in the quarter and 13 for the game.
Courtney Snyder and Kelly Reiner had two apiece for Weatherly.
Marian 67, Weatherly Area 7 Local athlete Deanna Pugh poured in a game-high 19 points, powering Marian Catholic to the Schuylkill League Division 2 win at Weatherly.
Teammates Olivia Searfoss
(16) and Addy Fritz (14) joined her in double figures, and the three combined for six of the Fillies’ seven 3-pointers. Kelly Reiner scored five of the seven Lady Wrecker points.
3-pointers: O. Searfoss 2, Fritz 2, Pugh 2, Stoutelakis.
Induction ceremonies Feb. 1
Hall of Fame class announced at WAHS
The 1998 Weatherly Area High School girls’ softball team and the late Raymond Provizzi, a one-time Wrecker basketball standout, will be inducted into the school’s sports hall of fame during induction ceremonies set for Saturday, February 1.
The Weatherly Area High School Sports Hall of Fame Committee is organizing a buffet
On the Sly
dinner to celebrate the 2024-25 class. The dinner will be held at 4 p.m. on Feb. 1 in the middle school cafeteria at a cost of $20 for adults and $14 for children ages 6-12.
Following dinner, the Weatherly Area girls’ varsity basketball team will host Salem Christian for a 6 p.m. tip-off at the middle school gymnasium.
No title for Nittany Lions,
by Steve Stallone Sports Editor
It was the dream matchup local college football fans have fantasized about for nearly two decades. Notre Dame vs. Penn State, for a trip to the College Football Championship final.
The two hadn’t played one another in nearly 20 years, this after splitting the first 19 games of this series right down the middle 9-9-1.
The national semifinal last Thursday night pitted two major programs that hadn’t won a national championship since the 1980s. It also featured two teams that few outside South Bend and Happy Valley figured would still be standing at this point in the season.
Notre Dame survived a stunning Week 2 loss at home to Northern Illinois a MidAmerican Conference team and 28-point underdog that had never beaten an AP Top-10 team before to reel off 12 straight victories.
Penn State got up off the floor after yet another regular-season loss to Ohio State to reach the Big Ten title game, only to fall to then-unbeaten Oregon in yet another big-game defeat.
Yet with the College Football Championship expanded to 12 teams for the first time, both the Irish and the Nittany Lions were extended invitations to the Big Dance, and had relatively easy paths to the semifinal showdown.
Notre Dame opened with upstart Indiana just the fourth-best team in the Big Ten
Induction ceremonies will follow the girls’ game, at approximately 7:15 p.m.
The Weatherly Area boys will conclude the day’s festivities with a 7:30 p.m. game against Salem Christian.
Inductees and dinner attendees will have free admission to all the basketball games that evening.
Committee members, present and past Hall of Fame inductees, and Wrecker basketball fans are cordially invited to attend. Reservations for the dinner must be made by Jan. 30, and can be secured by calling Weatherly Area Athletic Director Scott Zoscin at (570) 582-3750 or via email at zoscins@weatherlysd. org
but pieces in place for next
this season and then got to face a Georgia team that was without injured star quarterback Carson Beck.
Penn State’s road to the semifinals was equally fortuitous, with surprise entry SMU and Mountain West champ Boise State proving to be relatively easy hurdles.
The showdown in the Orange Bowl figured to be decided by one mistake or one big play, and that it was.
When Penn State’s Drew Allar was intercepted in the final minute, leading to Mitch Jeter’s 41-yard field goal with seven seconds to play, Notre Dame was celebrating a 27-24 victory that kept its dream season very much alive.
The Irish will play Ohio State for the national championship on Monday evening. The Buckeyes dispatched Texas in the other semifinal.
If Penn State head coach
James Franklin, Allar and company can ever find a way to win the biggest games on the biggest stage, they could find themselves in the same situation next season that the Irish are in right now.
Yes, there will be players heading off to the NFL and coaches going to other schools to pursue their own dreams. But, for the most part, the nucleus of this Penn State team that went 13-3, played for a Big Ten title and reached the national semifinals, returns in the fall. Prior to the CFP tournament, Allar announced he was returning to Penn State for his senior season this fall.
On Monday, 1,000-yard rushers Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen also announced they would return for their senior years, citing unfinished business with their Nittany Lions teammates.
“We have accomplished a lot here, and we took another big step forward this season,” Singleton wrote on a social media post. “But we know we are capable of being even better.
“After discussing my football future with my family, I have decided to return to Penn State for the 2025 season. We still have goals we want to reach as a team, and I want to be alongside my teammates as we reach those goals.”
Allen wrote: “Penn State has been an extraordinary experience for me. This has led to my decision to return for the 2025 season. Throughout my life, my family and support system has been critical in helping me in my football journey.
“Through discussions with them, my coaches and teammates, it’s clear that we still have a lot more to accomplish as a team at Penn State.”
Allar, Singleton and Allen will have to take that journey without a pair of All-Americans on each side of the ball. Star tight end Tyler Warren and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year Abdul Carter are heading to the NFL, where they will likely be top-15 selections in the upcoming draft.
Returning wide receivers Harrison Wallace and Omari
season
Evans, who did not catch a pass in the Notre Dame game, will be joined by portal transfers Kyron Hudson of USC and Devonte Ross from Troy to strengthen the receiver room.
While the Nittany Lions should have some talented defensive players returning, they will have a new defensive coordinator for the third time in four seasons.
Tom Allen finalized a deal to become the new defensive coordinator at Clemson where he’ll join the Tigers and coach Dabo Swinney. Allen led the Nittany Lions to a top-10 ranking nationally on defense this season, though they allowed 24 second-half points in the loss to Notre Dame.
Carter and at least four starters will be leaving the defense for the NFL, but standout pass rusher Dani Dennis-Sutton and defensive tackle Zane Durant have announced they will return in the fall.
With a lot of pieces in place, and with additions from the transfer portal, from the freshman class and from others returning within the program, the thought is that Penn State can run it back in 2025, and perhaps go a few steps further come early 2026.
As for Monday night’s championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame, I’m taking the Buckeyes by two scores...Ohio State 31, Notre Dame 17.
JourNAl-herAld
Crestwood Basketball Roundup
Crestwood girls, boys notch hoops victories
The Crestwood girls won twice last week, and the Crestwood boys also picked up a basketball victory to continue their respective playoff pushes.
GIRLS
Crestwood 54, Wyoming Valley West 42 A 20-8 second-quarter run gave the Lady Comets space, and from there they held off visiting Wyoming Valley West for the Wyoming Valley Conference Division 1 win.
Charlie Hiller led a balanced Crestwood attack with 17 points. Jackie Gallagher added 14 and
Cameron Vieney chipped in 10 points.
Thalia Irizarry had 18 points to top Valley West.
WYO. VALLEY WEST (42) Novitski 1 0-0 3, Irizarry 5 5-7 18, Sierra 1 4-4 6, McLaughlin 2 0-0 6, Richet 4 1-2 9. Totals 13 10-13 42.
Crestwood 49, Wyoming Valley West 20— Crestwood shot out to a 21-1 lead after one quarter and didn’t look back, holding host Wyoming Valley West to just six field goals in the WVC Division 1 victory last week. Ayden Agapito led Crestwood’s scoring with a game-best 13 points. Ryan Sechleer followed with nine. Jaden Estrada had seven for Valley West.
Pennsylvania Game Commission Northeast Region Director Michael Beahm announces that the Northeast Region will be holding a Night Out with the Game Commission on Monday, January 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Montour Preserve Visitors Center, located at 374 Preserve Road, Danville. This night out event will provide the public the opportunity to engage directly with District 5 Commissioner Allen DiMarco and Game Commission staff about hunting and trapping topics that might include law enforcement, wildlife
disease, wildlife populations, habitat work, pheasant stocking, forestry practices or upcoming education and outreach events.
A formal presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. with Wildlife Management Supervisor Kevin Wenner providing a program titled “Amazing Antlers”, that highlights the complex process of antler development from birth to annual drop-off time each year. All environmental and biological factors involved will be covered. Those attending can stop by at any time during the three-hour window. No reservations are required.
