The Journal-Herald, Thursday, February 29, 2024

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©2024, THE JOURNAL-HERALD. All Rights Reserved

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2024 • Volume 43 – No. 27 (USPS

CONTINUING: THE WHITE HAVEN JOURNAL ESTABLISHED 1879–145th YEAR, NO. 14

Main Street options reviewed

by Ruth Isenberg

White Haven Borough Council got a look at potential street scapes for Main Street during the council meeting on Monday, February 26. Bryan Smith of Barry Isett Entineering provided a slide show of ways Main Street could be made more bike and visitor friendly.

The presentation included ways to move pedestrians and bicyclists from Main Street up Susquehanna Street to the White Haven Area Community Library more safely. Options included a dedicated bicycle lane, a multiuse trail to accommodate both walkers and cyclists, sidewalks on one or both sides of the street, and various parking schemes.

A proposal is being developed so that grants can be sought to make the improvements. Once a plan is developed, it will be formally presented and a public meeting will be held to provide further input.

Council finalized the purchase of land on Towanda Street across from the library from Valerie Love. Plans are to construct a storage facility on the lot. The library’s lease will be amended to include the lot.

As part of borough manager Linda Szoke’s report, council approved use of Lehigh Park from March through October by the White Haven Sports Association, except for Memorial Day, Halloween, and other special events.

The Greater White Haven Chamber of Commerce was

See WHITE HAVEN, page 3

CONTINUING: THE WEATHERLY HERALD ESTABLISHED 1880–144th YEAR, NO. 40

SOUPER RESULTS: The annual soup & chili contest held by the White Haven Fire Company Social Club on Sunday, February 25, generated $1,292 for the White Haven Community Lunch program. Over 40 soups and chilis were available for sampling by a full house. The soup contest resulted in a tie for first place between Kevin Carter with Creamy Reuben soup and Bob Buda with Cheddar Broccoli soup. Second plase went to Jill Budda for BLT soup, and Joe Stefanick took third place with Chicken Rice Speztly soup. Chili winners were Brian Brogan, first place, and Michelle Ashman, second place. Shown above, from left are Mike Dotter, Don Harrel and Kevin Carter of the Social Club presenting proceeds to Ed Gower representing the Community Lunch program, and Jeff Carter of the Social Club.

WH calls meeting on police dept.

White Haven Borough Council has called a special meeting for this Friday, March 1, at 5 p.m. to discuss personnel changes within the police department. See legal ad, page 3, for details.

Photo courtesy Kevin Carter.

THE JOURNAL-HERALD

(USPS 277-440) Published weekly at 211 Main Street, White Haven, PA 18661

Telephone (570) 215-0204

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(JAY E. HOLDER, Co-Publisher 1954-1997; CLARA HOLDER, Co-Publisher 1954-2014)

Seth Isenberg, Advertising Sales

Ruth Isenberg, Editor

Steve Stallone, Sports Editor

Member, Greater White Haven Chamber of Commerce Carbon County Chamber of Commerce Pocono Mountains Chamber of Commerce

© Copyright 2024, The Journal-Herald

Archives editoriAl

Not short enough this year

by Ruth Isenberg

February is the month most of us get tired of winter. The only good thing is that normally there are only 28 days, so less time for snow and storms.

This Leap Year there are 29 days, and even worse, from this newspaper’s point of view, there are 5 Thursdays meaning putting together 5 issues when not much is happening.

Daylight Saving starts Sunday, March 10, and the first day of spring is Tuesday, March 19. Easter is Sunday, March 31. We’re ready.

From The Journal-Herald Issue of February 24, 1994 Editors & Publishers

Jay and Clara Holder

The future of the Schwab School was the topic of the front page of this issue.

Church Women United and the White Haven Ministerium are sponsoring a World Day of Prayer on March 4

Allen J. Hinkle was named as Packer Twp. Supervisor to fill the vacancy.

Dr. Joseph Diana wrote a column on bursitis pain management.

The Fairview Elementary School PTA will host its annual book fair the week of March 7.

WAZL 1490 advertised its News Block its morning news show from 6 to 9 a.m.…weather four times an hour

Amy Sandt scored her 1,000th career point on Tuesday at Cardinal Brennan. She finished her sophomore season with 1,014 points.

The annual fifth and sixth grade basketball classic

tournament sponsored by the Lions and WHASA begins tonight and runs the weekend at the White Haven Center. Cost is a donation at the door.

Phil Engman Rambled On about the Olympics, and wrote a nice article about this season’s comeback of the Crestwood Boys basketball team.

I took on the task of mentoring a 7 and an 11 year-old for an afternoon of learning to ski at Big Boulder. After a degree of success with them, I returned both to their mother, and took four quick runs before the ski area closed.

The Weatherly PTA and Teachers Association sponsored a phone book collecting contest for the school. Four pizza parties were given to classes who were the best collectors.

This week’s meal write-up was at The Sportsman in Blakeslee. Ruth had chicken Florentine (stuffed with spinach and ricotta cheese), and I had a filet mignon stuffed with crab both entrees cooked to perfection. The meal with fine, and desserts special tiny Napoleans and other stuffed pastries.

WASB learns about district food program successes

by Seth Isenberg

Business at the February 14 meeting of the Weatherly Area School Board started with a presentation by Jeanine Snyder of The Nutrition Group on foods and programs being served students and staff. She spoke of having increased participation in her breakfast program. At lunches, regular days can feature “what’s on your plate?” or special items like apple dumplings. Molly the Cow comes to Weatherly on the 28th to bring smoothies.

Susan Benczkowski, regional manager of The Nutrition Group, praised Snyder for her work, with extra praise in

keeping food costs down during these times of inflated prices.

In return, Snyder praised her food service team and the WA Administration for making her success possible. Board member Bonnie Barbush praised Jeanine for her continuing great work.

The board approved Family Medical Leave for one employee and Intermittent Unpaid Leave for another for medical reasons.

The following Coaches for the 2023-2024 Spring Sports Season were approved (pending all clearances):

• Kenneth Jacoby, III Head Varsity Baseball Coach Volunteer

• Daniel Peters Assistant Baseball Coach $2,100

• Robert Bryan Assistant Baseball Coach Volunteer

• Jenna Bartel Assistant Softball Coach Volunteer

• Kyle Michaels Assistant Softball Coach Volunteer

• Kelly Michaels Assistant Softball Coach Volunteer

• Ryan Binder Assistant Softball Coach Volunteer

• Sandra Binder Assistant Softball Coach Volunteer

• Matt vonFrisch Assistant Softball Coach Volunteer

• Ryan Kately Varsity & J.H. Track & Field Coach $4,930.

The board approved the first reading of policies regarding Enrollment of Students; Student Classifications for Enrollment; Graduation/Commencement; Educational Opportunity for Military Children; Transportation; Eligibility of Nonresident Students; Nonresident Students (non-

resident students include any who are homeless).

Business Manager Robert Kachurak’s Report (his final report before he moves to a new job): Approved the 2023 School District Per Capita Exoneration Lists; Acknowledged the Repository Sale of a property in North Kidder Township at $875; Approved Payment of Bills, as presented, from the General Fund Account: January 2024

Manual Checks $41,753.21,

Checks Dated February 14, $528,401.86.

The auditors’ report is ready, to be reviewed during the Budget meeting.

The next WASB meeting is March 6 beginning at 6 p.m.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

White Haven Borough Council will hold a special meeting on March 1, 2024 at 5 p.m. at the Borough Council offices, 312 Main Street, White Haven PA 18661.

This meeting will be to discuss personnel changes within the police department and take any necessary action. No other Council business will be discussed at this meeting.

The meeting can be attended via Zoom at Meeting ID: 831 8498 1217

Linda Szoke Borough Manager

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Pamela C. Rafalli, of Hazle Township, Pennsylvania, in the Estate of Joan Cerula a/k/a Joan C. Cerula, late of Hazle Township, Pennsylvania, who died on January 3, 2024. All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make payment and those having claims or demands to present the same without delay to the Executrix named or to:

Conrad A. Falvello, Esquire

THE FALVELLO LAW FIRM, P.C.

641 State Route 93 Sugarloaf, PA 18249 3/14

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters of Administration have been granted to Lauren Metzger, of Sugarloaf Twp., Pennsylvania, in the Estate of Brandon Metzger, late of Sugarloaf Twp., Pennsylvania, who died on November 16, 2023. All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make payment and those having claims or demands to present the same without delay to the Administratrix named or to:

Alexis C. Falvello, Esquire

93 Sugarloaf, PA 18249 3/7

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE of MARGARET B. CHEHOVICH, deceased, late of the Borough of Lansford, Carbon County, Pennsylvania.

LETTERS TESTAMENTARY have been granted to the undersigned who requests all persons having claims or demands against the estate of said decedent to make know the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payments, without delay, to the Executrix: Karen Chehovich

54 East Main Street Junedale, PA. 18230 or to her Attorney:

Robert T. Yurchak, Esquire

1 East Catawissa Street

Nesquehoning, PA 18240 3/14

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE of SONJA R. SMELL aka SONJA M. SMELL, deceased, late of the Borough of Lansford, Carbon County, Pennsylvania.

LETTERS TESTAMENTARY

have been granted to the undersigned who requests all persons having claims or demands against the estate of said decedent to make know the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payments, without delay, to the Executor:

Francis S. Smell, Jr. 340 Lake Drive

Nesquehoning, PA. 18240 or to his Attorney:

Robert T. Yurchak, Esquire

1 E. Catawissa Street POB 127

Nesquehoning, PA 18240 3/14

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters of Administration have been granted to Kevin M. Davenport of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, in the Estate of Clara Irene Uryc a/k/a Clara I. Uryc, late of White Haven, Pennsylvania, who died on January 22, 2024. All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make payment and those having claims or demands to present the same without delay to the Administrator named or to:

Alexis C. Falvello, Esquire

THE FALVELLO LAW FIRM, P.C. 641 State Route 93 Sugarloaf, PA 18249 3/14

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters Testamentary have been granted by the Register of Wills of Luzerne County, PA, on November 15, 2023, in the Estate of Elizabeth M. Diamond, a/k/a Elizabeth Diamond, a/k/a Elizabeth Mary Diamond, late of Foster Township, who died August 16, 2023, to Ethel Ann Hauze, Executrix.

All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make payment and those having claims to present them immediately to:

SENAPE & ASSOCIATES

James V. Senape, Jr., Esquire

Catherine A. McGovern, Esquire

Michael B. Senape, Esquire 612-614 Main Street, P. O. Box 179 Freeland, PA 18224-0179 570-636-3133 3/14

White Haven

Continued from page 1

granted permission to use Lehigh Park for its car show on September 7.

A price of $3,950 from Mr. Rehab for a full day of camera work to document the condition of the infrastructure (water and sewer lines) on south Main Street prior to the start of the PennDOT Interstate 80 bridge project was approved. Szoke is waiting on a price for drone photography of the surface as well.

Receipts of local realty transfer tax for January of $1,851.77 and delinquent taxes from December of $499.26 were received from tax collector Kathryn Oross.

Pothole patching is due to start soon. A new source for cold patch is being tried; the company is providing a one-year waranty, and one ton free with the purchase of a ton.

The VFW is planning a day of community service, and will be sprucing up Hemlock Park.

The strategic planning group is planning an Earth Day community clean-up on April 20, including planting flowers.

Memorial Day weekend planning by the 200th Birthday committee continues. More T-shirts have come in and will be available for sale.

The electrical service for the sound system on Main Street is being made ready for the street festival in July. The Lions are considering holding the lantern launch that had to be postponed in January during some part of this event.

Solicitor Donald Karpowich announced that two executive sessions were held during the month regarding personnel.

The purchase of spring water is still low. Council members suggested looking at other firms when the current contract expires.

Present were council members Charlie Best, Julie Falon, John Klem, Bob Lamson, Zane Writer, and John Zugarek. Harvey Morrison was absent.

Council has scheduled a special meeting this Friday, March 1 at 5 p.m. The next regular meeting is Monday, March 25, at 7 p.m.

obituAries

CLINTON F. KUNKLE JR.

Clinton F. “Clint” Kunkle, Jr., beloved husband, father, brother, pop-pop, 83 years of age of Weatherly, passed away on Sunday, February 25, 2024, at Lehigh Valley Hospital Hazleton Campus.

Born Sunday, February 23, 1941 in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Clinton F., Sr. and Maude (Schoch) Kunkle. Clint was also predeceased by a son, John Scott “Lionel” Kunkle on February 11, 2022, and a brother, William Kunkle.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Anna May (Drasher) Kunkle; son, Thomas Kunkle and his wife Karen of Cogan Station; brother, Robert Kunkle and his wife Ginny; grandchildren, Erin Weindorf and her husband Patrick, Tristan and companion Mihaela, Michaela Henne, wife of Luke, Rory and his companion

Caroline, Seaver and his companion Kaci, and Austin; eight great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Glenda Hunsinger.

A 1958 graduate of Weatherly High School, Clint served honorably in the United States Army. Clint retired from Tobyhanna Army Depot where he worked as a radar calibration technician for many years. He was a member of Salem U.C.C., Weatherly American Legion Post #360, Silver Ridge Hunting Club, Paradise Fish & Game Club. Clint fostered his love of cooking by assisting his late son at Lionel’s Luncheonette in Weatherly. An avid outdoorsman, Clint hunted, fished, and was a devoted cat lover.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Weatherly.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 10 a.m. from the funeral home. Friends may call on Friday evening March 1, at the funeral home from 5 to 7 p.m.

Interment with Military Honors bestowed will be in Union Cemetery, Weatherly.

Memorials in his name to:

Carbon County Animal Shelter 63 Broad Street

Nesquehoning, PA 18240

Online condolences may be made to the family at www. griffithsfuneralhomes.com

MICHAEL J. DOUGLAS

It is with great sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved friend, boyfriend, son, brother, grandson, Michael J. Douglas, 31 years of age, of West Main Street, Weatherly, who died on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Lehman Township. Born Friday, April 10, 1992, he was the son of James Douglas and Darlene (Harvey) Douglas. Michael is also survived by loving companion, Kristine Narcum; sister, Jamie Douglas and her companion Daniel Podwika; and half-brother Frank Kapes; paternal grandmother, Lois N. Douglas. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends also survive Michael.

A 2011 graduate of Weatherly Area High School, Michael attended the Carbon County Vo-Tech. He was a jack of all trades and could be

found running any sort of heavy equipment. An avid outdoorsman, Michael liked to hunt, fish, four-wheel, and looked forward to off-roading in his Jeep. He cherished the many adventures with Kristine and sharing all the great stories of his life. Michael adored the companionship of his dogs Duke, and Sasha. He found great joy in helping anyone he could with whatever they needed. If you were stuck in the woods, needed to move, or needed anything at all he was happy to help, no matter the situation.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Weatherly.

A Celebration of Michael’s Life will be held on Thursday, February 29, at 7 p.m. from the funeral home. Friends may call from 5 p.m. until the time of services.

Online condolences can be expressed by visiting www. griffithsfuneralhomes.com

Bach and Handel Chorale to present 39th Spring Concert

The Bach and Handel Chorale and Festival Orchestra, based out of Jim Thorpe, will present its 39th Spring concert on Saturday, May 18, at 3 p.m. in the St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 526 North Street in

Jim Thorpe. The chorale will be accompanied by the Festival Orchestra whose members come from Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York and Schuylkill and Bucks counties.

The concert will open with the Concerto in F Minor, BWV 1056 performed by Maestro Perry on the Harpsichord and accompanied by the Festival Orchestra.

The concert will continue with several choruses from Bach Cantatas and Oratorios as well as some choral works by Handel. Admission is $25, and tickets are available by mail by calling the chorale office at (570) 325–4794. Visit www.bhchorale.org for additional information on tickets or the chorale.

obituAries Game Commission restoring habitat to Broad Mountain, using harvesting and fire

ODILLE GABRIELLE SANTULLI

Odile Gabrielle Santulli, 89, of Mountain Top, passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center.

Born in Paris, France, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Lucienne Roger Schuler. She was a graduate of Mary Louis Academy High School, Queens, NY and attended St. John’s University for two years.

Odile was a devoted member of St. Jude’s Church and Choir. She enjoyed playing the piano, spending time with family and walking her dog, Mia. She enjoyed horseback riding, biking and skiing. Odile was a very generous woman, donating to

charitable organizations, and volunteering with the American Red Cross.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two sisters, Marion D’Arcangelo and Gil D’Alpuget.

Left to cherish her memory and mourn her loss are her loving husband Michael Santulli; son Daniel Santulli of Mountain Top; daughter Gabrielle Santulli of Philadelphia; and in France, brother Phil Schuler and his wife Martine and nephew Edouard Schuler and niece Aline Foury.

A Memorial Mass was celebrated February 28, at St. Jude’s Church, Mountain Top.

Arrangements are under the direction of the DesiderioLehman Funeral and Cremation, Mountain Top.

Visit www.MountainTopFH. com for additional information.

DAVID K. HENDRICKS

David K. Hendricks, 79 years of age of Weatherly, passed away on Saturday, February 24, 2024, as a guest of The Manor at St. Luke’s Village. in Hazleton.

Born Saturday, August 26, 1944 in Hazleton, he was the son of the late Harvey, and Lois (Knepper) Hendricks.

Surviving are his companion of 10 years, Joanne (Caplo) Bunk; brother, Paul Hendricks and his companion Marybeth Thomas; grandchildren, Seth and Dylan Harkins; niece and nephew, Nicole and Matthew Hendricks.

A Weatherly High School graduate, David served

honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. David worked in the electrical department for the Borough of Weatherly for over 40 years. David enjoyed the companionship of his dogs, Raine, and Tiki. David and Joanne looked forward to going to different restaurants for lunch or dinner.

Private arrangements have been entrusted to the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Weatherly.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www. griffithsfuneralhomes.com

Obituary Policy: The Journal-Herald does not charge for the publication of obituaries. They are treated as news articles, and edited to fit our requirements, as are all news items. Pictures may be included when available. Please request your funeral director to send obituary to journalruth@gmail.com

Obituaries with special wording may be published as Tribute advertising, at regular rates.

Call 570-215-0204 xt2 for more information.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Northeast Region is in the process of restoring critical and unique habitat to State Game Lands 141 in Carbon County.

SGL 141, located in Packer Township, Lehigh Township, and Nesquehoning Borough is comprised of over 17,000 acres of mountaintop forestland and shrubland habitat, with over 750 acres to be treated through multiple habitat management methods.

Known as Broad Mountain, the habitat historically was a vast acidic barrens complex comprised of forestland, woodland, shrubland, and savanna. These barren complexes are considered rare on a global scale. This barren habitat type can be everything from bare rock habitat, to grassland, shrubland, to pine and oak woodlands. This diversity provides critical and unique habitat for a variety of wildlife. The Broad Mountain Barrens provides specialized habitat for several threatened and endangered species as well as several Species of Greatest Conservation Need as identified in the Pennsylvania Wildlife Action Plan. This unique landscape structure and composition was created and maintained by a frequent wildfire regime. The lack of fire over the past century has significantly altered the natural fire return interval. The exclusion of this regular disturbance kick started succession converting much of the expansive Broad Mountain Barrens into closedcanopy forest cover. This has altered species composition and forest structure to one that favors fire intolerant species, amplifying and further threatening this remnant habitat.

“Since the era of fire suppression began in the 1950s, most of this unique habitat has aged into closed canopy forest that cannot

support the suite of flora and fauna that require barrens habitat,” said Pennsylvania Game Commission Forester Zachary Wismer. “Habitat improvements like this have immediate and long-term benefits for all wildlife species.”

This project will facilitate the restoration and maintenance of the ridgetop acidic barrens communities using prescribed fire. To aid in this endeavor, the PGC conducted commercial tree cutting operations. This method is preferred because harvested trees are removed from the site, aiding in fuel reduction, which is critical for a future successful prescribed fire operation.

“The Broad Mountain Barrens is a conservation reliant habitat type. It requires proactive and intentional management to maintain the remnants that still exist and restore adjacent areas that have converted to closed canopy forest. Barrens habitat restoration is often likened to peeling an onion. The core of the onion represents the healthy, stable, structurally diverse system, capable of providing all the habitat benefits to barrens adapted and reliant flora and fauna. Each onion layer represents a layer of habitat degradation. Decades of fire suppression has created layer upon layer from the closing canopy to a species shift from fire tolerant species to fire intolerant species, to cool and damp conditions of the forest floor, to changes in soil chemistry and nutrient cycling. To restore barrens, these layers must be removed incrementally. Implementation of prescribed fire is the primary tool. However, tree cutting, mowing, or other mechanical treatments are often necessary where barrens have progressed to forest,” said Wismer.

For more information on the Pennsylvania Wildlife Action Plan, the PGC’s Prescribed Fire Program, and Habitat Management Information at pgc.pa.gov

Freeland Ambulance obtains funding

by Jim Dino

The Freeland Community Ambulance will be back in operation by March 1 or not at all, says its president. Freeland Mayor Joe Palko Jr., who is also ambulance association president, said at the latest borough council meeting on February 22 he and others have been working to get the ambulance back online.

Councilman Frank Kislan, another ambulance volunteer, said the Freeland ambulance went out of service last October 1 when the ambulance association ran out of money to pay its personnel and had only two volunteers left.

Since then, Valley Regional

Ambulance. Lehigh Valley Ambulance and the White Haven Ambulance have been covering Freeland.

The Freeland Ambulance has secured a line of credit from a local bank that will enable them to go back into business.

“We have eight people who are willing to start March 1,” Kislan said. “We have secured a bank line of credit for three months until income from insurance and the EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Tax starts coming in.”

Council President Jason Richie said a special meeting on the ambulance will be scheduled this week.

Garbage bills, appointments

Resident Joe Palko Sr. said it is not fair for someone who puts

out one bag of garbage per week as opposed to a family who puts out multiple bags per week to pay the same rate.

Council president Jason Richie said the only way to pay for the service is to charge each household the same amount. Richie also said council members are working to alleviate the cost of the garbage fee, which is $500 per household per year, paid $250 every six months,

Council also voted to enter into an agreement for s trial for a 10-camera Flock system that Police Chief Robert Maholik said will monitor the borough at key entrances and exits.

Maholik also said Civil Service examinations will be given for

both full- and part-time police officer positions.

Council appointed Joseph Murmelllo and Charles Krone as alternate code enforcement officers, and Agnes Brill, Therese Morrison, Alba Perez and Jessica Palmaccio to three-year terms as members of the borough recreation board. Lou Brill was appointed to the borough zoning hearing board.

Council voted to sell a 2015 GMC Sierra truck via MuniciBid for $36,800.

Council also approved the request of the Freeland Sons of Erin to block Centre Street from the MMI Preparatory School to Front Street on March 18 for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Weatherly seeking grant money to demolish Schwab School annex

by Seth Isenberg

Weatherly Borough Council is pursuing a grant to demolish the annex building by the old Schwab School. At the February 26 regular meeting, council approved borough manager Harold Pudliner to apply for a Keystone Communities Grant of $250,000 for the work.

It’s hoped that this will help the proposed Alliance for Building Communities (ABC) project to put 30 apartments in and by the school. ABC is working on securing funding for its project.

During debate about have a ‘fish and pay’ program at the Eurana Park pool, councilmen questioned a proposed $25 fee to fish. Jeffrey Miller pointed out the cost was too high compared to other fish and pay businesses. Debate then swam through costs of buying the fish ($6.50 each), costs of having two people working, and the reasons for the change before getting tabled to next meeting.

A plan to revise language that dates to 1913 in the Fire Department ordinance and update other passages

was approved 6-1, Vincent Cuddeford II opposed.

A 20' wide by 900' length of an old Norfolk & Southernowned rail line, now long retired, was bought to be used to connect the existing parking lot trail entry to the end of Yeakle Street. The piece of land goes south and over the Black Creek. A bridge is being planned for.

This year’s roads paving was announced. Dunnigan Street, Doney Run and Fern Ally are to be repaved. Cost estimates for the total of the three are $76,000 out of a $77,000 liquid fuels budget. “We’d like to have money left over for salt (for the winter),” Pudliner said. “We’ll likely have to use the general budget to buy more salt.”

Next year, the borough is looking to pave North Street and Second Street.

Council member Joe Cyburt announced that the 2024 Weatherly HillClimb dates are June 8 & 9 and September 14 & 15.

The American Legion Auxiliary is planning a Marathon Day of making cards for soldiers on March 26. The public will be invited to come

and build some cards, and meet program founder Charlie Matthews. Additional details will follow.

A Memorial Day parade will be held, sponsored by the American Legion.

Weatherly Council meets at 5 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month in council chambers at the Weatherly Municipal Building.

Tax season is here.

Does your business need help getting its documents in order?

Eckley Miners’ Village reopening for Spring this Friday, March 1

Eckley Miner’s Village has extended weekly public days to Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. As always school tours, group tours, and research visits are available during business hours every day of the week.

Upcoming Events:

Charter Day, March 11

This is the annual day that the PHMC celebrates the founding of Pennsylvania with free admission across all state historic sites and museums. Eckley will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Patchtown Days, June 15-16

Join us for our annual celebration of the culture and traditions of the Anthracite region. Historic demonstrations, music, food, and some special evening programming. Details to follow.

Industrial Heritage

Study tour of the United Kingdom sponsored by the Anthracite Heritage Museum, September 2024. Join us on a sensational tour of the United Kingdom to study significant industrial heritage sites that contributed to the rapid global expansion of industrial activity from

the late 18th into the 19th centuries.

This 15-day tour will start in Glasgow and end in Portsmouth and include several UNESCO world heritage industrial sites. Key sites include: New Lanark, Falkirk Wheel, Mersey Tunnel, Manchester Science and Industry Museum, Menai Suspension Bridge, Telford Suspension Bridge, Anderton Boat Lift, Quarry Bank Mill, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Snowdon Mountain Railway, National Slate Museum, Ironbridge Gorge, SS Great Britain, the Concorde, Great Flat Lode, King Edward Mine

seth’s sightiNgs

I have been summoned for Jury Duty in April. It’s something I will go to, and see if I am selected. Thirty-one years ago, I was selected for a jury, but the defendant chose to go before a judge instead. I am sending in the form and will share what happens.

We enjoyed a beautiful weekend. While various parts of the country were getting winter weather, we have been teased by springtime temperatures. As I write this, the temperature outside is about 55°.

Critter sightings have been

mostly the usual, although we note an increase in Canada geese.

I note an increase in bird song, with at least one recent arrival taking a turn at singing at the top of our tall cherry tree. He’s loud enough to be heard over our white noise machine, and persistent enough to be a wake-up alarm.

We’re coming up on a rare fifth Thursday of this month, only made possible because it’s a Leap Year.

We had some shopping to do on Saturday, and made our

Museum, Royal Cornwall Museum, Gwennap Pit, Geevor Tin Mine, Wheal Martyn Clay Works, Brickworks Museum, Bucklers Hard, Royal Navy Submarine Museum, HMS Victory. Interesting four-star hotels, all breakfasts and several dinners included.

Dates: September 14-29. Leaving from Philadelphia to Glasgow, returning from London to Philadelphia. Details: http://www. anthracitemuseum.org/ united-kingdom-industrialheritage-tour-2024/

by seth iseNberg

drive around sunset so we could enjoy the beautiful colors, golds, yellows, pinks, and more. Then we were treated to a glorious full moon rising.

The WSB Penguins won two out of three games this past week. This weekend the Charlotte Checkers are in Wilkes-Barre for two games.

We’re getting close to March Madness. I am interested in your basketball picks, ladies’ and men’s. I am cheering UConn’s Lady Huskies to go deep into the tournament. I’ve no men’s favorite.

The 2024 NCAA Hockey Tournament is coming up too. More details next week here, and on the b-ball.

Here’s to a weather rollercoaster. Keep warm and dry as the weather throws its early spring tantrums. This weekend looks like a good spring skiing weekend – sunny days and cold nights.

The coming cold night with showers can easily be cold night with snow. So, shovels still at the ready.

Best of health to you all.

Hazleton Art League’s Members’ group art exhibition on display through March

The Hazleton Art League’s Members’ group art exhibition, which runs for the entire month of March, opens with a reception

Friday, March 1 from 5-8 p.m. at the Hayden Family Center for the Arts. On Sunday, March 3 from 1-3 pm the artists will gather for Coffee Talk—an open forum to discuss their works, methods, and inspirations at this popular yearly exhibition.

You are encouraged to come and view the artwork, enjoy good food and drink, and listen to the music of Tommy Molinaro

Thursday, March 21 from 5:308:30 p.m. at the Art League’s 2024 fundraiser, Celebrate Big for the Arts. This year’s

main sponsor is the Luzerne Foundation, and donations to support the Art League are still being sought. Tickets to this event are $65 and are available online.

Sunday, March 24, from 1-3 pm is Acoustic Jam, with local musicians playing in the Main Gallery.

Admission for our regular events is always free. Gallery hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 1-4 p.m., closed Mondays and holidays. For Information on classes, programs, and other events follow us on social media or go to our website: hazletonartleague.org

comiNg eveNts

THURSDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29-MARCH

2— The Sound of Music, Zion Opera Workshop, 7:30 p.m., Zion UCC, Lehighton (also 2 p.m. March 2), 610-392-1810

SATURDAY, MARCH

9—Pysanky Egg Workshop, 12 p.m., White Haven Area Community Library

MONDAY, MARCH 11— Charter Day, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. free admission, Eckley Miners’ Village Museum

SUNDAY, MARCH 17— Northeast Pennsylvania Chamber Music Society concert, 3-5 p.m., White Haven Area Community Library, 570-443-8776

THURSDAY, MARCH

21—Come Celebrate Big For the Arts, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Hazleton Art League, Hazleton

FRIDAY, MARCH 22—Spring Raffle, 6-8 p.m., Citizens’ Fire Company, Weatherly (kitchen open 6-10 p.m.)

SATURDAY, APRIL 13— Main Street Market, 8 a.m.3:30 p.m., White Haven

SATURDAY, MAY 11—Main Street Market, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., White Haven

SATURDAY, MAY 25— Memorial Day Car Show, Front Street in Freeland

SUNDAY, MAY 26—Family Fun Day/Memorial Day Parade & Celebration, 1-4 p.m., Lehigh Park, White Haven

SATURDAY, JUNE 1—Trout Festival, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., White Haven Area Community Library

SATURDAY, JUNE 8—Trail Fest, Main Street, White Haven

SATURDAY, JUNE 8—Main Street Market, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., White Haven

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JUNE 15 & 16—Patchtown Days, Eckley Miners’ Village

SATURDAY, JULY 13—Main Street Market, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., White Haven

FRIDAY, JULY

26-SATURDAY, JULY

27—200th Birthday Summer Street Festival, Main Street, White Haven

SATURDAY, AUGUST

10—Main Street Market, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., White Haven

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER

7—Car Show, Lehigh Park, White Haven

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER

14—Cranberry Quilt Guild Quilt Show, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Weatherly Area Middle School Gymnasium, 570-436-1469

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER

14—Main Street Market, 8

a.m.-3:30 p.m., White Haven

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER

15—Cranberry Quilt Guild Quilt Show, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Weatherly Area Middle School Gymnasium, 570-436-1469

SATURDAY, OCTOBER

12—Main Street Market, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., White Haven

The Hazleton Art League is located in the Hayden Family

Center for the Arts, 31 W. Broad Street, Hazleton, 570-455-3333.

Hickory Hills enjoys super Soup-er Bowl party

Residents of Hickory Hills enjoyed 10 delicious soups, chili, and grilled cheese sandwiches while meeting and greeting their neighbors at the community’s second annual Souper Bowl party. Desserts and Philly pretzels rounded out the event. No one left hungry and there was enough to send “take outs” home.

Photos courtesy Alice Lachewitz

March 7 & 8

Cowboy/Cowgirl Weekend

March 15, 16 & 17

Here’s what’s happening in March at Tavern on the Trail 520 Main St., White Haven Open 7 days a week for family-friendly dining

570-443-9044

Food & Drink Specials, Games. Live Music on the 8th. Check Facebook for details.

St. Patrick’s Weekend at the Tavern Watch for details on Facebook

March 30 & 31

Easter Dinner Includes Easter Surprise for Children

Sunday, March 3

Grandma’s Sunday Dinner

-Chicken Francese over fettuccine, soup or salad and dessert

-Beef Stew, soup or salad and dessert

Served after 4 p.m. —

•Fresh Cod w/garlic sauce served with mashed potatoes

•Captain’s Platter: Fried Fish/ Crab Patty/Clam Strips/ French Fries & Cole Slaw

•Shrimp Basket •Fish Sandwich

•Crab Cakes

Please check our Facebook page for additional events, times and information

Need an Extra Copy of this issue?

The Journal-Herald is for sale at: White Haven Market, Fuel-On, and Soapy Bee in White Haven, Wawa at the Turnpike in Kidder Township, Weasel’s in Dennison Township, and TJ’s One Stop in Weatherly.

White Haven Lions accepting scholarship applications

The White Haven Lions Club is pleased to announce that it is accepting applications for the 2024 Scholarship Program. The Club is offering at least two $2,000 scholarships this year. Students, regardless of age, are eligible if their primary residence is in the 18661 zip code or the 443 telephone exchange. Recipients must, at

the time of award, be accepted as provisional or full-time students to a degree program at an accredited institution. Eligible institutions are limited to accredited Universities, Colleges, Junior Colleges, Community Colleges, and Technical Schools having at least a two-year program. The scholarship program is

librAry corNer

March events at WHACL

March looks to be a busy month at the White Haven Area Community Library. Tot time will be held on March 2 from 10:15 to 11 a.m. in the children’s area. Children aged 5 and under will celebrate Dr. Suess’ birthday with a story and a craft. Registration is not required.

There will be a Pysanky Egg Workshop on Saturday, March 9 from Noon to 3 p.m. Advance registration with payment is required. The cost is $40. Stop in to the library or call 570-4438776 for additional information.

Some tickets still remain for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Chamber Music Society concert on Sunday, March 17, from 3–5 p.m. The cost is $25. There will be refreshments prior to the concert.

Mark your calendar for The White Haven Trout Festival,

hosted by Western Pocono Trout Unlimited. This great event will include plenty of family friendly activities, as well as activities for the experienced fisherman.

A 5K Family Fun Run is planned along the D&L River Trail.

The library will again be sponsoring a Fish Fry to benefit children’s programs. Admission to the Trout Festival is free. Tents with displays and vendors will be outside in the Rail Yard Park with more activities inside. It is scheduled for Saturday, June 1 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine.

Be sure to check out the library Facebook page for more information on events.

open to both new students and those already working toward their degree requirements. In past years, scholarships have been awarded to freshmen and upperclassmen, and previous winners have included a number of students from area high schools as well as local students attending colleges nationwide. Eligible applicants from

previous years are encouraged to participate in this year’s program. Applications must be received by April 8. To obtain an application form, please text or call Elizabeth Jones at (570) 239-6010, visit our Facebook page or website, or contact any other member of the White Haven Lions Club.

Spring raffle at Citizens’

Citizens’ Fire Co No 1, 107 Spring St, Weatherly will hold its annual Spring Raffle, Friday March 22, from 8-11 p.m.

There will be raffles all night

long, a 50/50, and tickets available to win $50, $75, and $100 prizes.

Fireside Grill Kitchen will be open 6-10 p.m.

Kindergarten Registration at WASD in March

Weatherly Elementary announces Kindergarten Registration on March 13 and March 20. Registration is by appointment only.

Please call 570-427-8687 to set up an appointment. Requirements for your child are as follows:

• Child must be 5 by September 1, 2024

• Day of Registration please bring 1 of the following;

• Birth Certificate, Baptism Certificate or Hospital Registration

• Child’s immunizations

• Parent Driver’s license

• 2 proofs of residency

WASB to meet

The Weatherly Area School District Board of Directors will hold a Caucus Meeting on Wednesday, March 6, and a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, March 13, at 6 p.m. in the Middle School LGI Room.

JourNAl-herAld sPorts

Crestwood Boys Basketball Comets stunned by Patriots in district quarterfinals

A thorn in Crestwood’s postseason side for many seasons, the Pittston Area boys once again ushered the Comets out of the district basketball playoffs last week in Wright Township.

The sixth-seeded Patriots got three 3-pointers from Paul Jordan McGarry in the fourth quarter, including the game-winning basket with 17 seconds to play, as they

stunned number 3 Crestwood 43-41 in the quarterfinal round of the District 2 Class 5A Tournament.

The Patriots led throughout the first three quarters, but Chaz Wright scored seven points in the third quarter to help the Comets get within 30-29 entering the fourth.

McGarry then hit consecutive triples to start the final period as the Patriots lead grew to 36-29.

Crestwood battled back to regain the lead on a Derek Johnson basket with just over a minute to play. After the teams traded baskets, McGarry hit the dagger from 3-point range to send the Patriots (10-13) into the semifinals against Dallas.

Matt Walter and McGarry paced the Patriots with 16 and 12 points, respectively.

The Comets, who saw their

season end at 14-9, were led by Wright’s 15 points. Johnson finished with 10.

Crestwood............6 10 13 12 — 41

3-pointers: McGarry 4, Walter 2, Giardina, Czapla

What to make of the Kelce-Reid SuperBowl confrontation?

by Matthew Paris

Travis Kelce let his emotions get the better of him during Super Bowl 58, bumping his

head coach Andy Reid and yelling angrily at him. We’re still trying to make sense of the confrontation.

We’ll likely never know what

was said during the incident. But when asked, Reid laughed it off, and Kelce later apologized. That’s not the end of it, though. Fans and the media have had

trouble moving on. Numerous articles have been written, social media comments made, and memes circulating.

I grew up playing sports, but that was at a different time in society. Coaches yelled constantly at my teammates and me, but we knew that their intent was clear – trying to make us better players. Still, back then, as today, major consequences await when players grab or yell at coaches.

That said, I’m far more worried about what is happening in society than what happened during a football game. It wasn’t any football game, either. It was the Super Bowl, and emotions ran especially high.

I’m confident this incident will be handled the way similar circumstances in sports are handled (or should be handled), that is, behind closed doors by responsible parties.

Houston-based Matthew Paris writes for

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Crestwood sending three wrestlers to regional tournament

Two Crestwood boys and one Lady Comet have advanced to the regional round of the scholastic wrestling postseason following stellar performances at last weekend’s District 2 Class 3A Wrestling Championships held at Wilkes-Barre Area High School.

Crestwood’s Kyle Draina captured the 285-pound championship, outlasting Delaware Valley’s Chris Dellabella to bring home the gold. He edged Hazleton Area’s

Peter Youngcourt 3-0 in the semifinal round.

Teammate Sammy Jeckell placed third at 121 pounds to also advance to this weekend’s Northeast Class 3A Regional in Bethlehem.

Jeckell dropped a 15-0 technical fall to top-ranked Tyson Cook of West Scranton in the semis but stormed back to qualify for regionals by pinning Wallenpaupack’s Nicholas Skokos in 2:49 of their third-

place match.

The top four wrestlers at districts moved on to regionals.

In girls’ action, Crestwood’s Rachel Shoemaker advanced to the finals of the 118-pound bracket, becoming the first Lady Comet in program history to reach a district final. She earned that distinction by scoring a 9-5 decision over Western Wayne’s Katelyn Nunez.

For the Crestwood boys, Nick Webb and Nate Wisniewski

captured fifth-place medals and Thomas Stavetski placed sixth.

For the Lady Comets, Emma Selfe and CJ Eppley claimed fifth-place finishes, while Gabriella White and Alexis Richmond both came in sixth.

The top four finishers for the boys and the top three for the girls moved on to regionals, with the boys in Bethlehem and the girls competing in Milton this weekend. The top wrestlers there advance to states.

Crestwood Girls Basketball Roundup Lady Comets reach semis, play for state playoff berth

The Crestwood girls’ basketball team opened the District 2 Class 5A Tournament with a 48-44 win at North Pocono last week to advance to the semifinal round.

There, the fifth-seeded Lady Comets gave top-seeded Scranton all it could handle before the Knights held on for a 55-45 victory.

Crestwood (16-8) was still alive for a trip to the state tournament, scheduled to play #2 seed Dallas (19-7) Tuesday night at Dallas in the third-place consolation game. The winner moves on to states, and the loser sees its season end.

Scranton 55, Crestwood 45–With the game tied midway through the fourth quarter, top-seeded Scranton (22-2) got the lift it needed from senior Kamryn Alers.

Alers hit a deep 3-pointer from the corner to put the Lady Knights in front, and passed to Chrissy Jacklinski for a layup that helped send them past the upset-minded Lady Comets and into the finals.

Scranton was to face #3 Abington Heights for the championship.

Alers finished with eight points, fellow senior Finley Bittenbender scored a dozen. and Maggie O’Shea also scored 12 to pace Scranton. O’Shea

kept the Lady Comets at bay by hitting all four of her free throws in the final 36 seconds to finish off the win.

Crestwood’s Charlie Hiller scored 15 points, and Keira Dougherty added 11. Defensively, the Lady Comets limited Scranton to 10 points in the first and third quarters and forced 11 turnovers.

Hiller converted an offensive rebound into two points, and fellow freshman Cameron Vieney hit a 3-pointer that tied the game at 38-38 in the fourth quarter before Alers made her back-to-back key plays and the Lady Knights finished on a 17-7 run.

free throw line to get the Lady Comets through the quarterfinal round.

The six-foot Hiller, who was making her varsity playoff debut, finished with 12 points and nine rebounds. She helped the Lady Comets to a 35-19 domination of the boards, with 14 of those coming on the offensive end.

Outside of Autumn Koch, who knocked down three wide-open 3-pointers in the first half, the outside buckets were tough to come by. Koch’s two triples helped North Pocono (15-8) go on a 16-2 run for an 18-9 lead late in the first period. From there, Crestwood began turning up the defensive pressure and getting to work on the glass to turn that deficit into a 30-27 halftime lead. Crestwood had a 13-0 run at one point.

Lady Trojans kept battling. Koch’s traditional three-point play with 1:14 left trimmed the Lady Comets’ lead to 44-40. But Dougherty converted 6-of-9 free throw attempts in the fourth to seal the victory.

Dougherty also made two pivotal defensive plays in the final minute, stealing the ball at half-court on one possession, and after a Crestwood turnover, she tracked down Ella Clementoni from behind, blocking what appeared to be a wide-open lay-up.

Dougherty finished with 14 points, Jackie Gallagher had 13 and Kate Gallagher seven.

Crestwood.......... 10 9 12 14 — 45

Scranton.............10 12 10 23 — 55 3-pointers: Dougherty, J. Gallagher, Hiller, Vieney. F. Bittenbender 2, Alers 2, Ma. O’Shea 2. Crestwood 48, North Pocono 42 — The fifth-seeded Lady Comets went to North Pocono and upset the #4 seed and Lackawanna County Division II champs on their home floor.

Freshman Charlie Hiller had a big game for Crestwood, dominating in the paint, while sophomore point guard Keira Dougherty sealed it at the

In the second half, Crestwood held North Pocono to 5-of-22 shooting from the field, but the

Preppers eliminate Wreckers from District 2/11 playoffs

by Steve Stallone Sports Editor

FREELAND Joe Flanagan admitted his worry-meter was high, reaching his arm as far as he could up in the air to make the point.

“The last team I wanted to play was Weatherly,” MMI Prep’s head coach said of a team they just beat by 26 points two weeks earlier. “They just played hard,” Flanagan said.

As it turned out, Flanagan didn’t have anything to worry about at all.

His veteran Preppers built an early 10-point lead in the opening quarter, and kept the hard-charging Wreckers at arm’s length throughout their District 2/11 Class A Subregional quarterfinal game Friday night. The Preppers’ workmanlike 63-45 victory punched their ticket into the semifinal round. They were to face No. 2-seeded Bethlehem Christian Tuesday night.

On Monday, MMI captured the District 2 Class A championship with a 52-39 win over Susquehanna Community, at the Mohegan Sun Arena. It was their third District 2 title since 2018.

The sixth-seeded Wreckers (2-21) came in looking to surprise the third-seeded

Preppers (14-9), who raced past Weatherly 56-30 two weeks ago in a non-league game on the very same court.

“They were the last team I wanted to play. Just preparing for it. They’re a tough team to prepare for because they just keep coming, keep coming,” Flanagan said.

“We were really, truthfully hoping we could pull this out. We worked extremely hard,” said Wreckers first-year head coach Luke Medico, who started five underclassmen but lauded his team’s effort. “That’s the only thing I stress, at this age and how they are. Listen, right now we’re emerging, we’re working on things. The whole program’s changing. All you can control in this moment is the effort that you give. Don’t quit, complete heart, show effort and I’m good.

“This gives them the taste of it.”

The Preppers never trailed, opening up a 10-4 lead midway through the first period after back-to-back 3-pointers from seniors Brendon Brobst and Reed Floryshak.

The upset-minded Wreckers were within four after a spin move down low from freshman Chance Stauffer at the 1:57 mark. But while the Wreckers missed their final two shots of the quarter, the Preppers made

theirs. Back-to-back triples from Brobst and Les Lispi stretched the MMI lead to 10 (18-8) by quarter’s end.

Weatherly mistakes early in the second quarter and the Preppers’ ability to capitalize on those miscues gave MMI further separation.

Three consecutive steals resulted in breakaway layups for Nick Pantages, Brobtst and Ryan Sones, the latter converting a three-point play that capped a 13-0 run that made it 25-8 just three minutes into the second quarter.

“They’re young. They miss shots, they make turnovers, I’m not really getting mad about that. I’m not worried about that right now, just don’t give up,” Medico stressed about his players. “A lot of kids in general, one thing goes wrong and the head goes down and it’s give-up time. That’s not what we’re going to do. We’re trying to change that culture, and it’s happening slowly.”

As their coach promised, the Wreckers had plenty of fight left. Niko Saldukas stopped the MMI run with a free throw, and later converted a fast-break layup and two free throws as Weatherly outscored the Preppers 12-10 over the final five minutes of the half. Corbin Wagner drained a 3-pointer, and Ian McKeegan added a spin move in the lane, and then a buzzer-beating layup to bring the Wreckers within 15 (35-20) at the break.

McKeegan and Saldukas kept the Wreckers in the 10-12 point range through most of the third quarter, combining for 10 of the team’s 12 points in the period. But it was Sones, the Preppers’ 6-2 senior guard, who kept Weatherly from gaining ground.

Sones scored on a putback, an acrobatic drive through the lane, and an up-and-under move, then added three free throws to keep the Preppers ahead 45-30. Brobst’s basket in the lane upped it to 47-30, before the Wreckers’ Stauffer scored down low late as the MMI lead was still 15 (47-32) after three

quarters.

“It’s tough, because you never know what (Weatherly) is going to do,” Sones said. “They’re going to show you different looks and you try to adjust to that.”

Sones’ one-hand runner and free free throw, a Floryshak triple, and Pantages’ breakaway layup ballooned the MMI lead past 20 points at 55-34 three minutes into the fourth.

Although McKeegan scored on three of four possessions with a variety of spinning moves in the lane, the Wreckers could get no closer than 16 points the rest of the way.

The Preppers closed it out on the free throw line, making six-of-eight in the final three minutes to put the finishing touches on the 18-point victory.

“I’m proud of how we came out and just kept that lead at 12-15, and they never really got under that,” Flanagan said, noting the poise of a squad that boasts four senior starters and five veteran players who have been there before. A year ago, the Preppers came from a buzzer-beating shot of getting into the state tournament, and are on a mission to take that next step.

“That’s the one thing that let me be able to fall asleep at night this last week, that we’ve been there, so we should be able to handle some things,” Flanagan said.

“We know what we have to get done. We don’t want a repeat of last year. So it’s just get up big early,” stated Sones, who led all scorers with 23 points and also grabbed eight rebounds.

“[Experience] is very big. From winning two games our sophomore year to winning six games last year, to winning 14 now. We see progression in every one of our teammates, and we’re better as a team, far more than we were a few months ago,” added Sones.

Brobst, who scored 20 points, yanked eight boards, and See WEATHERLY VS PREP, page 16

Weatherly vs Prep

Continued from page 15

directed the offense flawlessly from the point, said the trust and confidence level within the Preppers is at an all-time high.

“We’ve been playing together since the second grade. To do it like this is special,” Brobst said. “We’ve been through this our whole lives and we’ve had our ups and downs, so it’s good to get it going and get a win. The (confidence level) is high. We’ve been playing good, so if we get it going early and hit some shots...It’s a very high confidence. We’re looking to hopefully make a run and make it to states.”

McKeegan paced the Wreckers with 18 points, five rebounds and four steals, while Saldukas contributed 14 points and a team-high seven rebounds. Stauffer added six points and four boards.

Medico said the effort on Friday was far better than the last time they played the Preppers, even though the outcome was unchanged.

“We were here two weeks ago and we probably played our worst game, we did not shoot one foul shot, and we shot 24 percent from the floor. So today’s a better day,” Medico said. “I think when these kids get to a level of they’re all freshmen and sophomores, basically, and Donish just started playing basketball last year. By the time they are at that next level, they’ll have put in the hard work.”

That work begins a few weeks down the road, after everyone takes a little time off to recharge the batteries.

“I’m giving everyone several weeks off, including myself. I need to take a little breath,” Medico said. “We’re going to have a full year planned out, something like these kids have never experienced before. Weight room, footwork, pickup games, shooting. It’s going to be very planned-out. When Nov. 15 comes and practice happens, we’re already going to be together.

“They’re all for it, and the community is all for it. It’s pulling everyone together. I’m trying my best to do things the best way I know. This year, they made a ton of strides, especially during the last few weeks of practice time. So, it’s going to be nice to see what happens in time.

“There will be no excuses. When we put in the work, there’s no more work you can put in,” Medico added, before concluding: “These guys are going to turn things around. They have a winning spirit.”

Weatherly Area’s Corbin Wagner shoots a fall-away jump shot from the corner as MMI Prep’s Reed Floryshak defends during last Friday’s District 2/11 Class A boys’ basketball playoff game, in Freeland. The Preppers prevailed, 63-45. JH: Steve Stallone

Weatherly Area’s Chance Stauffer (with ball) powers his way to the basket against MMI Prep’s Ryan Sones, as Weatherly’s John Donish battles for rebounding position during last Friday’s District 2/11 Class A basketball playoff. JH: Steve Stallone