The Journal-Herald, Thursday, April 13, 2023

theJournal-herald

ARPA could bring better internet to area

JH: Ruth Isenberg

SPRING WEATHER brought out steady crowds to the first White Haven Main Street Outdoor Market on Saturday. Neighbors chatted and shopped from vendors offering craft items including jewelry, candles, Tshirts, emboidered items and more. A bag printed with White Haven locations was especially popular with buyers. Food came from local restaurant Jireh’s Pizza, and a food truck. Other local businesses provided coupons, and the Lions Club sold tickets for their annual spaghetti supper. The Soapy Bee, located in the stone building where the market was set up, was open for a preview of merchandise; its cafe is still under construction but should be opening soon. Organizers were pleased with the turnout, and promise even more for upcoming markets, to be held the second Saturday of the month. Next month’s market day is May 13.

by Seth Isenberg

Congress member Susan Wild, who represents Carbon County in Washington, brought Biden administration senior advisor and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) coordinator Gene Sperling,

and U.S. Treasury officials Jacob Liebenluft and Joseph Wender, to Weatherly on Monday to announce a $200 million investment in better

See ARPA, page 6

ARPA coordinator Gene Sperling speaks, as (from left) Jacob Liebenluft, Joseph Wender and Congress member Susan Wild look on. JH: Seth Isenberg

THE JOURNAL-HERALD

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From The Journal-Herald

Issue of April 15, 1993

Editors & Publishers

Jay and Clara Holder

(JAY

Cut off!

by Ruth Isenberg

This week’s railroad repair in Weatherly was a reminder of how inconvenient, and potentially dangerous, it is for the borough to have only one road bridge crossing the Black Creek. During the repairs, which thankfully were completed early, going from the east side of town to the west required a detour of many miles through Freeland and Hazleton.

Because the borough knew in advance about the closure, it was able to plan for police and fire responses. The school district opted for an on-line learning day. Because Weatherly depends on out-of-town ambulance service now, that wasn’t as much of an issue as it could have been.

But this was a planned (if somewhat last minute) closure of the road. Had this been caused by an accident such as a train derailment, things might have been more serious than just an inconvenience.

Efforts have been made to obtain funding for a second bridge. So far, no state or federal money has been forthcoming.

It’s time to try again. Public buildings all have multiple exits, and it is no longer acceptable to build a planned residential development with just one road in and out. Weatherly should have the same level of safety.

’tis the season…

…for road work. There is construction everywhere, and as a result, construction workers. Please slow down and watch out for them. We’ve seen too many tragic accidents in work zones recently. Don’t be part of another one.

The front page photo this week showed Weatherly Police Chief Robert Koch, Mayor Richard Knepper, and borough manager Jay Willard accepting a new police vehicle obtained with a $5,000 grant secured by State Senator James Rhoades and the Weatherly Area Merchants Association member

Attorney Cynthia Ray representing WAMA in the photo.

One day last week, the Penn Lake bus for Crestwood ran out of gas on the Middleburg Road. The bus’ radio was not working, leaving the driver to decide to send the kids home via available parents. Normally, with a break down, the driver would radio to the bus barn and another bus dispatched to get everyone and complete the route. Penn Lake parents are angry at the District and the bus company.

White Haven Borough may get reimbursed for some of the blizzard cleanup work.

Caster’s Floral & Gift Shop advertised that April 18 to 24 is Secretaries Week.

The Carbon County Democratic party will gather this Sunday at Shenanigans in Lake Harmony to meet, network, and hear speaker state representative Ruth Ruby. Tickets can be bought

from chairperson Nancy Pilecki…

Weatherly Borough adopted a tree commission ordinance, and named Jack Koehler, Phil Jeffries Jr. and Art Michael to 3, 2 and 1-year terms.

Lausanne Township supervisors are scrambling to get road repairs done to fix damage from the recent blizzard, and this month, heavy rains.

Presbyter Sergius Blumer wrote a Holy Week Pastor’s Corner about “Great and Holy Saturday.”

Sports writer Steve Stallone wrote about how some of the nation’s top boxers had come to the Fernwood Resort in the Poconos to train. The Lady Wreckers softball team is now 4-0 after a 15-9 triumph over Tamaqua on Monday.

John Makaravitz wrote about attending winter sports shows, and replenishing his lures.

Phil Engman’s Ramblin’ On column had a review of this year’s baseball season. He ended it with a prediction of a subway series between the Mets and Yankees.

Ruth wrote a review of a fine meal enjoyed by Jay and Clara Holder and Ruth and myself at Leonardo’s Fireside Restaurant on Route 115. The restaurant featured a fabulous salad, soup and dessert bar, and tasty, well-prepared entrees.

Howard’s Jewelers placed a four-page glossy circular into this issue.

From The Journal Issue of April 15, 1943

Publisher W. C. Taylor

“It took Germany nine years to build enough plants and equipment to fight this war. It took Japan 25 years, Russia 20 years… American industry, under free enterprise, has done it in two years.

The tract of grass and brush-covered ground known as The Island, lying between the Lehigh River and Bridgeport Road, was burned black Friday last… This tract, the nesting place of much small game birds and rabbits, burns every year, or at least that has been the case for the past ten years.

With a high wind blowing, a small grass fire on Circus Hill, near the Nanstiel gas station, got beyond control last Saturday afternoon. Many neighborhood women and children lent a hand to check the blaze, to no avail. The Fire Company was called and put it out. No damage done.

“Impressive ceremonies were held Sunday evening at St. Patrick’s Church (where) Rev. R. R. Fitzpatrick blessed the beautiful new Honor Roll which now adorns the sanctuary of the church. (It) contains the names of seventy-four men and one woman of the Parish who are in the Armed Forces.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS-WEATHERLY BOROUGH NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed bids for the Multi-Use Trail Phase 1 Tree Clearing Project and Base Trail Construction, will be received by the Borough of Weatherly, until 4:00 P.M. on Monday, April 24th. Bids will be opened and read aloud Monday, April 24th at 5:15 P.M. The bid award date will be Monday, April 24th intended to immediately follow bid opening.

Bids will be received for Contract No. 5 –

Multi-Use Trail Phase 1 Tree Clearing, Trail Station 37+00 to 42+00 And

Bids will be received for Contract No. 6 –

Multi-Use trail Phase 1 Base Trail Construction, Trail Station 37+00 to 42+00

Bids will only be received in person and all documents and solicitation details are available at no cost at the Borough of Weatherly, 61 West Main Street, Weatherly, PA 18255 during office hours Monday-Friday 7:30 A.M.-4:00 P.M. Bidders can bid on one or both Contracts.

The Borough hereby reserves the right, which is understood and agreed to by all bidders, to refuse any or all bids submitted; and also reserves the right to waive any informality in bids received, but any contract awarded will be to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder. There are no Davis-Bacon requirements associated with the AMLER Program. Prevailing wage rates are also not required for grants.

To schedule a time to visit the Project Area, contact Harold Pudliner at (570) 427-8640. No visits will be scheduled within two (2) days of the date to receive the bids. Each Contract is to be substantially completed in 3 weeks and final completion in 4 weeks.

Harold Pudliner Borough Manager Z057000411 DV/1

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Dennison Township Zoning Hearing Board hearing previously scheduled for Thursday, March 23, 2023, has been continued and will now be held on Thursday, April 20, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. at the Dennison Township Municipal Building, 76 Walnut Street, Dennison Township (White Haven), PA. 18661. The hearing shall be to consider an application by Laura & Michael Bolinsky for the property located at 16 Norman Lane, Dennison Township (White Haven), PA 18661, which is located in a R-A District. The applicant seeks to construct a 26′ x 50′ single family home. The following variances are sought by the applicant.

A rear setback variance from the required distance of 25 down to zero (0) feet.

A variance from the maximum lot coverage of 7% to 18%. A variance from the maximum height of 35 feet to 36 feet.

A copy of the full text of the application and supporting material are on file and available for public inspection by appointment at the Dennison Township Municipal Building by contacting Township Secretary, Kathleen Stortz at (570) 443-8190 or an electronic copy may be obtained by email by contacting John Varaly at (jvaraly@ptd. net)

Ms. Kathleen Stortz Secretary

Dennison Township 4/13

GUN & KNIFE SHOW

Marketplace 8281 PA-873

Slatington, PA 18080

April 15 and 16

Sat 9-5 • Sun 9-4

Admission $9 Single Day Ticket

LEGAL NOTICE

Estate of HELEN ANN JONES

Late of East Side Borough, Carbon County, Pennsylvania

Letters Testamentary in the above estate have been granted to the undersigned, who requests all persons having claims or demands against the estate of the decedent to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment, without delay to: Lisa A. Jones, Executor c/o Nanovic Law Offices

Attention: James R. Nanovic

57 Broadway P.O. Box 359 Jim Thorpe, PA 18229

HELP WANTED

4/20

Full-time laborer to assist with all areas of property and street maintenance in the Borough of White Haven.

Must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to lift 50 pounds. Working knowledge of plowing roads, using lawn-cutting equipment, or paving equipment is a plus.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $14.50 - $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental Insurance

• Health insurance

• Life insurance

• Paid time off

• Retirement plan

• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8-hour shift

• Day shift

RAILROAD REPAIRS closed access to the steel grate bridge in Weatherly on Tuesday. Although the job was a Norfolk & Southern RR project, the borough erected signs outside of town, and used its emergency notification system to alert people about the closure. Still, many motorists seemed surprised on Tuesday. The project finished early, so the street was reopened for Wednesday morning.

JH: Ruth Isenberg

$15 Two-Day Ticket www.eagleshows.com

• Holidays

• Monday to Friday

• Overtime

• Weekend availability

License/Certification:

• Driver’s License (Required)

Work Location:

• In person Applications to apply are available at the borough building 312 Main Street, or you can request one to be emailed at whborough@ whboro.org

White Haven Borough is an equal opportunity employer.

Obituaries

ROLAND CRAMMER HOFFMAN

Roland Crammer

Hoffman, 75, of Caswell County, NC, formerly of Memphis, TN went to be with the Lord Thursday April 6, 2023 at the Gibson House Hospice of Rockingham County. Graveside services were conducted April 12, in Greenview Cemetery.

A native of Weatherly, he was a son of the late Roland and Harriet Crammer Hoffman and had lived in Caswell County for the past three years, moving from Memphis, TN. He formerly worked in maintenance for a number of apartment complexes in several different states.

When he was younger he enjoyed working on cars, yard work, hunting, woodworking, camping in a motor home and cooking. When he lived in Weatherly, he was a member of the local volunteer fire department.

Roland was preceded in death by a son, Michael Hoffman; and a sister, Mary Alice Davis. Survivors include his wife, Barbara Bachart Hoffman; sons, Roland “Butch” Hoffman of Pennsylvania, and Charles E. Scott, Jr. (Leslie) of Boomer, NC; daughters, Vicki Price of Ruffin, and Kelly Scott (Charlie) Collins, MS; sister, Laura Puzzetti (Charles) of Weatherly; nine grandchildren, nine greatgrandchildren; and his beloved canine companion Trouble.

Memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105 or to Hospice of Rockingham County P.O. Box 281 Wentworth, NC 27375. Citty Funeral Home is assisting the Hoffman family. Online condolences may be sent to: www. cittyfh.com

ALAN JOHN LADICK

Alan John Ladick, of White Haven died peacefully on Monday April 10, 2023 at Weatherwood Nursing & Rehabilitation Ctr. Weatherly.

Born in Hazleton, he was the son of the late John and Mary (Spangler) Ladick, Harwood Alan was also predeceased by sister, Eileen (Ladick) Patrick.

Alan was a graduate of West Hazleton High School. He served honorably as a member of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force.

Alan enjoyed photography, spending time outdoors, reading, watching movies, and traveling. Alan had worked for Bemis as a plate mounter.

Alan is survived by his brother-in-law, Robert S. Patrick; niece, Meri Jones and her husband Gerald; great-nieces Madison and Taylor Jones all of White Haven.

Private arrangements have been entrusted to the Philip Jeffries Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. of Weatherly.

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

RONALD C. “BUTCH” GERHART

Ronald C. “Butch”

Gerhart, beloved husband, father, and Pappy, of Packer Street, Weatherly, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 27, 2023, at home surrounded by his family. He was 78 years of age.

Born October 14, 1944 in Hazleton, he was the son of the late Earl and Ruth M. (Hinkle) Gerhart. Ronald was also predeceased by his brother Raymond E. “Rocky” Gerhart and granddaughter, Kennedy Halechko.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 39 years, Celine “Cindy” (Jackson) Gerhart; sons Corey E. Gerhart and his wife Toni, and Joseph Halechko and his wife Becky; daughters Michelle R. Gower, wife of Michael, Stacey L. Weigand, wife of Jonathan, Jennifer E. Barnes, wife of Jeffery; and grandchildren Mason and Kendall Gerhart, Bristol Halechko, Morgan and Michael (Jr.) Gower, Tanner Titus, Emily and Alison Weigand, and Kaileigh Barnes. He absolutely adored his children, grandchildren and fur babies; a devoted family man.

Ronald served his country honorably as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was a Purple Heart recipient. He belonged to the B Company, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division.

An active member of Salem U.C.C. of Weatherly, Ronald served as Deacon, Church Elder, and chairman of the property committee.

past Commander of the Weatherly VFW Post #8128. An avid outdoorsman, Ronald was a member of the Penn Haven Gun Club, former member of Paradise Fishing Club and a lifetime member of the NRA, VFW and the North American Hunting Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping with family and friends. He was part of the “Good Timers” bowling league and was a huge fan of NASCAR, watching either at home or from the grandstands. He served for many years on the “Pit Crew” for a family friend’s Go-Cart team. He enjoyed attending reunions with his fellow Vietnam veteran comrades. Together they traveled to various destinations. He also went on several cruises, including a special trip to Hawaii with his wife, spending good times with friends.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Weatherly. A celebration of Ronald’s life was held April 11, at Salem U.C.C. Entombment with Military Honors was bestowed on April 12, at Ft. Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

Memorials may be made in Ronald’s name to: Carbon County Animal Shelter

63 Broad Street

Nesquehoning, PA 18240 or

Disabled American Veteran Association

1123 East End Blvd

443-9816

Civically, Ronald was a Boy Scout leader, a member of American Legion Post 360, a former member of Citizen’s Fire Company, Weatherly, and

Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702

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

Lunch prices may go up in Weatherly Area schools

by James Hunter

The Weatherly Area School Board is considering raising cafeteria prices for the first time in at least six years. At the board’s caucus meeting Wednesday, April 5, board members were told by district business manager Robert Kachurak that the district would have to ante up a $15,979.19 deficit in the cafeteria fund for the 2023-24 school year. The projected loss for this year will be approximately $5,000. “We deliver 8,875 breakfasts, and 81,361 lunches per year,” he noted.

Board member Matthew vonFrisch said the district’s prices have remained the same during his six years on the board, while surrounding districts have higher prices.

The district charges $1.10 for breakfast, $2.20 for lunch at elementary and middle school, $2.35 for the high school, and $3.10 for adults. “Palmerton is $2.85 for elementary (lunches), $2.95 for secondary and $4 for adults,” vonFrisch said, “Lehighton is $2.50, $2.80, and $4. And Jim Thorpe is $2.30, $2.50, and $4.25. Even if we raised it 20¢, we

Obituaries

DANIEL J. SULLIVAN

Daniel J. Sullivan, 82, of Mountain Top, passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at home.

Born in Hazleton, he was the son of the late Daniel and Frances Gallagher Sullivan and worked as an accountant at Mercy Hospital, Wilkes-Barre. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates and Notre Dame fan. He loved spending time with family and vacationing in North Myrtle Beach.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his twin sister, Mary Beth McCoy in 2017.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 54 years, Sharon Conklin Sullivan; daughter, Shawn Rutkoski

would break even.”

Board president April Walters if the prices were raised 10¢ for the kids and 20¢ for the adults, the district would break even and still be less expensive than the other school districts in Carbon County.

Jeanine Snyder, the district’s nutrition director, said the board didn’t have to decide on the issue until June 30. The board moved agenda items regarding the Nutrition Group’s contract, 2023-24 budget and the cafeteria prices were moved to the May board meeting agendas.

Snyder said the district will celebrate ‘Purple Up Day’ by offering a free breakfast for veterans on Friday, April 14.

Get the dirt on the field

New field dirt was not spread on the district’s softball field for several weeks now—and an injury to a softball player that “may or may not have” had to do with the dirt not being spread set vonFrisch into a tirade. The player broke a leg sliding into a base because the field was hard, said vonFrisch, the assistant softball coach for the Lady Wreckers.

STANLEY BRUZGULIS

District maintenance superintendent Bill Moyer said bad weather and manpower problems have prevented the maintenance staff from spreading the dirt.

“We are one-third of the way through the softball season,” Walters said. Redeploying manpower during different hours was suggested by vonFrisch.

“We have some good options, so I think we can remedy the issue,” said Superintendent Daniel Malloy.

On the agenda

and her husband, Dr. Scott Rutkoski, Corning, NY; son, Daniel Sullivan and his wife, Mary Sullivan of Limerick; four grandchildren, Sydney and Samantha Rutkoski, Madison and Harper Sullivan; brother John Sullivan of Freeland; sister Margie Frame of Texas, nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, April 15, at 11 a.m. from the Desiderio-Lehman Funeral and Cremation, 436 S. Mountain Blvd. Mountain Top. Interment will follow in St. Ann’s Cemetery, Freeland.

Friends are invited to join the family for a visitation on April 15, from 10 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Stanley “Stosh” Bruzgulis, 83, of Freeland, being 39 for the 44th time, passed away Monday, April 3, 2023 with his wife, Susan by his side and his bestest buddy, Bucky, his basset hound, at his feet.

Born in Pittston, he was the son of the late Stanley and Lorraine (Sipler) Bruzgulis. He was a graduate of MMI Preparatory School, Freeland.

He served his country in the United States Air Force, having spent most of his tour throughout Japan. Stanley then accepted a position as part time police officer in White Haven and continued serving his local community until he became a certified electrician. Upon his certification, he opened and operated Green Mountain Construction, as well as working for other construction companies. His extensive knowledge of the trade and his ability to fix or fabricate virtually anything opened up a world of endless opportunities, priceless memories and lifelong

cherished friendships with Just Windows, Sky Hook and Lower Toby Sportsman’s Club.

His quick wit earned him the nicknames “Stanley McGyver” and “Santa Claus.”

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, White Haven; Freeland American Legion Post 473; Eckley Social and Sports Club; Lower Toby Sportsman’s Club; and a lifelong member of the White Haven Amvets.

Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, was a brother, Ronald Bruzgulis. Surviving are his wife, the former Susan Kapraszewski, at home; sons, Stanley Bruzgulis and wife, Gerise, Hershey, and Michael Bruzgulis, Berwick; a daughter, Kathleen Parry, White Haven; granddaughters, Shelby and Casssidy; great-grandsons, Avery and Hayden; and nephews, Ryan and Eric.

Graveside services were held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Freeland.

On the agenda for the April 12 regular meeting of the Weatherly Area School Board are:

Student recognitions – Senior of the Month for March – Jonathan Darraugh; 6th Grade Student of the Month – Levi Aneskevich; 7th Grade Student of the Month – Kyle Reiner; 8th Grade Student of the Month – Kassandra Hibbler

In Personnel, the Board acknowledges an FMLA leave for an employee, beginning April 20. These organizations have asked for permission to use facilities: Weatherly Youth Soccer League for use of middle and high school athletic fields from March through June 2023 Sunday through Saturday after school and on weekends for youth athletics; the American Legion Auxiliary cafeteria on April 4 from 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. for PURPLE UP! DAY; and Weatherly Faith Church to use of middle school

See WASB AGENDA, page 6

WHC

Continued from page 1

internet service for rural PA. Funds come from Wender’s Capital Projects Fund, from Liebenluft’s Recovery funding – both from ARPA money.

The visit is part of a threeweek listening tour about access to reliable, affordable internet, and how poorquality broadband internet affects the everyday lives of locals, especially students and veterans.

After the presentation, there was a discussion of internet quality in Weatherly (unreliable and slow –slowest when school is out). Weatherly Area Schools vice principal Christopher Kimmel explained how the District would provide

ChromeBooks to students, but some families had poor internet, while others had none. (Weatherly Area Schools went virtual

Tuesday due to the railroad crossing reconstruction in Weatherly that cut off the District’s western-most students from getting to

school.)

Congress member Wild spoke about the need for fast and reliable internet for seniors and veterans needing access to tele-health services.

WASB Agenda

Continued from page 5

athletic fields and front of the parking lot for a Mega Sports Camp from June 19th through 23rd, Monday through Friday from 5 – 9 p.m.

Superintendent Daniel Malloy recommends Homebound Instruction for a 9th grade student.

Also on the agenda is the Letter of Agreement between “The Meadows” and

After the meeting, Sperling was given a ride in Citizens’ Volunteer Fire Company’s newest fire engine, shown at left with .Citizens Fire Company foreman Paul Bray.

the Weatherly Area School District for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 school year(s); approving the 2023-2024 CLIU Special Education Facilities Plan; and approving the Class of 2023 Hershey Senior Class Trip on May 19.

Bills as presented from the General Fund Account total $959,674 March through April 12. The Cafeteria Fund spent $59,739, and Athletic Fund $6,636.

HAZLETON • PHILADELPHIA

Seth’s Sightings

Passover and Easter dominated our week. This past fall, Ruth and I agreed to go to a family seder in Worcester, MA, since we’d be able to finish our newspaper work by mid-day on Wednesday, then drive.

However, on the day of the trip, our first order of business was for Ruth to visit her orthopedic doctor to have her cast removed and a new x-ray. That x-ray showed she was healing well enough to be transferred into a boot instead of getting a new cast.

From there, we returned to finish packing and put the dogs in the car for our trip north. Our hopes of arriving somewhat on time were dashed when we ran into heavy traffic on Interstate 84 in New York state just before the Connecticut state line. It was stop and go for a couple of hours. Amazingly, we arrived mid-seder to enjoy a nice meal and good company.

We overnighted in a lakeside convention hotel at Sturbridge. It felt like we were the only guests very

by Seth Isenberg

nice and quiet. In the morning we found a good breakfast in town, and then took a drive to explore Sturbridge and Southbridge before heading back for a longer visit with family.

Late afternoon we made cemetery visits. We then drove until dark, stopping at Rein’s Deli/Restaurant in Vernon, CT, where the featured attraction was kippered salmon salad for Ruth, and a pastrami, corned beef and Swiss sandwich for me, plus a lovely sweet noodle kugel. (We’re not following the Passover matzoh-only rules this year, due to my still being in recovery from surgery.)

On our way north we made a stop to pick up some Columbian food at Noches de Columbia in Newburg a restaurant and bakery, just off the highway and wonderful.

On Saturday morning we turned out to the first of the monthly Main Street Outdoor Markets in White Haven. There were booths and sales items, crafts,

food, and a nice start for this event. The market will continue on the second Saturday of each month.

From there we drove to Princeton, New Jersey, where we arrived at the great Alpert family gathering seder. Attendees celebrated my Aunt Joan’s 98th seder. Ages ranged from 1 to 99, with four generations represented. There were 19 adults, 6 children, 1 baby, and 3 dogs in the house, plus our 2 dogs out in the car. We had another good meal and got on the road just after dark.

On the way home we were able to enjoy a decisive win by our Wilkes-Barre/ Scranton Penguins. On Wednesday’s ride to New England, we keep track of the Penguins’ game against Charlotte a loss. There’s only one more home Penguins game this season, this Saturday against Charlotte again.

Easter Sunday, we were tuckered-out. I got Ruth to Easter services, then slept in for a bit.

It was too nice a day to sleep the rest of the day away, so we took a nice drive over the Francis Walter Dam and through Lake Harmony, and then through Hickory Run State Park. There, our patient dogs were rewarded with a short walk at the day use area. (There were four sets of people out using the park, which was nice, as lately we’ve been the only folks out.) While there, a heron flew proudly overhead.

Other sightings this week include fox and racoon, and of course lots of deer. In Kidder Township and at

the State Park, we sighted three different signs of bear activity scat near the day use area, fresh scratching on trees, and an overturned set of trash cans.

It will be a quiet weekend, with Saturday’s last night of local hockey in Wilkes-Barre the highlight. As for the rest of the weekend, There’s an

Eagle Shows event at the Slatington Marketplace

I plan to attend either Saturday or Sunday. With this week’s spectacular weather, here’s hoping for a beautiful day on Sunday for some yardwork and maybe a ride in the country. Best of health to you all.

Coming Events

FRIDAY, APRIL 14—Booksale, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. & 4-7 p.m., Weatherly Area Community Library, 570-427-5085

FRIDAY, APRIL 14—Storytime, 4:30 p.m., Weatherly Area Community Library, 570-427-5085

SATURDAY, APRIL 15—Booksale, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Weatherly Area Community Library, 570-427-5085

SATURDAY, APRIL 22—Weatherly Area Museum Benefit Dinner, 6 p.m., L&L Fire Company Banquet Hall, 570-427-8173

SATURDAY, APRIL 29—College Planning 101, 10 a.m., Weatherly Area Community Library, 570-427-5085

SATURDAY, APRIL 29—Dead Serious…About Life performance, 6 p.m., Weatherly Area Middle School, 513-459-7268

SUNDAY, APRIL 30—Dead Serious…About Life performance, 3 p.m., Weatherly Area Middle School, 513-459-7268

FRIDAY, MAY 12—Storytime, 4:30 p.m., Weatherly Area Community Library, 570-427-5085

SATURDAY, MAY 13—Main Street Market, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 243 Main Street, White Haven

SATURDAY, MAY 13—Yoga with Amanda Neidlinger of River Run Healing Arts, 9 a.m., Weatherly Area Community Library, 570-427-5085

SATURDAY, MAY 20—White Table Program by American Legion Auxiliary, 10 a.m., Weatherly Area Community Library, 570-427-5085

SUNDAY, MAY 28—Memorial Day Parade & Gathering in the Park, 1 p.m., White Haven

FRIDAY, JUNE 2—Graduation, 6 p.m., Weatherly Area High School

SATURDAY, JUNE 3—Trout Festival, 12-5 p.m., Railyard Park, White Haven Area Community Library

SATURDAY, JUNE 10—Main Street Market, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 243 Main Street, White Haven

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JUNE 10 & 11—Weatherly HillClimb

SATURDAY, JULY 8—Main Street Market, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 243 Main Street, White Haven

Sofranko a candidate for Carbon County Commissioner

Michael J. Sofranko has announced that he will be seeking the Republican nomination for Carbon County Commissioner. A lifelong Carbon County resident, he is currently employed at Mack Trucks in Macungie. His three decades in municipal government include 14 years as mayor and 16 years as a Jim Thorpe Borough Councilman, 14 of which he spent as council president. During that time, he has served the residents with pride, dedication, and fiscal responsibility.

Under Sofranko’s oversight, Jim Thorpe’s police department has reduced crime and increased arrests for drug related offenses, demonstrating

his commitment to the prosecution of drug offenders. He collaborated with the police chief to secure funding, including over $100,000 in Local Share Account grants, all of which ease the burden on taxpayers.

With a track record of approachability and bipartisanship, Sofranko’s ability to facilitate discussions with a commonsense approach is one of his strongest attributes. He believes that during demanding times of unknown rising costs for families, future tax burdens and fiscal responsibilities must be addressed.

Sofranko acknowledges that while growth within Carbon County is essential for the families to call “home,” changes cannot be drastic without input from its residents.

“In my 30-year involvement in local government from balancing

Help ALA honor military children

The Weatherly American Legion Auxiliary Unit 360 will host a celebration of the military child this Friday, April 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the post home. Come and help honor the children of deployed and active military. The ALA will also recognize retired veterans and their children.

Everyone young and old, big and small is invited to enjoy cookies and ice cream sundaes with the American Legion Auxiliary. Military children will receive a certificate and a balloon. Reservations are appreciated but not

budgets and the oversight of police to listening and understanding taxpayers,” he said, “I’ve learned that we must work together and respect each other’s opinions to develop the solutions needed to address the financial and quality of life issues facing every Carbon County resident.”

Sofranko is the son of

Florence (Butchko) and the late James Sofranko. He graduated from Marian Catholic High School and earned an Associate Degree from Lincoln Technical Institute. He is married to Therese Krebs of Jim Thorpe for 35 years. They have two children. Michael is a member of the Pennsylvania State Police, and his wife

Christina is a special education teacher. He is a proud grandfather to their two children. His daughter, Emily, is a special education teacher at Tamaqua Area School District.

He is 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus and worships at Immaculate Conception Parish, formerly St. Joseph’s in Jim Thorpe.

required. Contact Georgia Farrow at 570-427-4527.

Dinner benefits

Little League

Hazleton Elks Lodge 200 is sponsoring a spaghetti dinner to benefit the Hazleton Little League on Sunday, April 23, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Elks lodge, 635 E. Broad St. in Hazleton.

Tickets are $10 each, and are available from any Little League coach, or at the door the day of the dinner.

Branche seeking post of Carbon County sheriff

My name is Richard Branche. I’m a veteran law enforcement officer with 38 years of service.

I was educated at Middlesex County Community College and Thomas Edison State College studying Criminal Justice Police Science.

During that time I worked in the East Brunswick Police Department NJ. I worked in the patrol division, later assigned to K-9 section. After that I would move to the special operations

division, conducting background investigations for new applicants and training, then the Traffic division/supervisor of the Motorcycle Unit and the department’s Special Weapons and Tactics team. The final rung in my 30 years in NJ was as Range Master/Supervisor of the East Brunswick Training Facility.

After retiring I found myself back in law enforcement in South Carolina working for Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office as a supervisor in charge of training.

I have extensive training and instructor

certifications in many areas including firearms, driving, defensive tactics, Axon Taser, alert active shooter/ breaching, ALS Less Lethal instructor, Master motorcycle Instructor Maryland state police, Incident Command and emergency response, Command and control of line staff. I received awards for my service, the Life Saving Award, Service Commendation Award, WTC Award, Meritorious Service Award, 2020 Training Officer of the Year State of South Carolina. My last stop was Carbon County Sheriff’s Office for 6 months.

My time away from law enforcement was spent with my wife Laura of 36 years, and our 4 grown children and 2 grandchildren.

I am running for Sheriff of Carbon County to instill a professional law enforcement attitude, integrity, and accountability to the position. I would do away with wasteful spending, present budgets that are responsible and in the best interest of county residents, institute policy and procedures that are up to date and in accordance with state and federal laws. Work towards keeping the officers the department

currently has, ending the revolving door of young and veteran deputies leaving which in turn costs the county money. I will work with the local police departments and the citizens of Carbon County to address the issues at hand.

I’m being endorsed by Joseph Hager, retired Chief Deputy of the Carbon County Sheriff’s office who served the residents of Carbon County for 35 years. I am a lifelong Republican, not one which has switched parties within the past several months in order to stay in an elected office and take advantage of Republican voters.

Coming Soon

Comets split WVC tennis matches

The Crestwood boys’ tennis team split its matches over the past week, beating Berwick 3-2 on Monday, and dropping its first match of the season last week against Wyoming Seminary, also by a 3-2 score.

Crestwood 3, Berwick 2 - The visiting Comets (4-1) swept both doubles matches to pull

out the Wyoming Valley Conference win over the Bulldogs.

At first doubles, Sean Rossi and Spencer Young rallied past Ben Carro and Liam Welch 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3). At. No. 2 doubles, Crestwood’s Aaron Kogoy and Will Savner downed Vic Ekrote-Mikey Kaleta 6-1, 6-4, to decide things.

Scott Lenio recorded the Comets’ only singles win, beating EJ Switzer 6-2, 7-6 (7-3).

Issac Gerken and Ben Yard were singles winners for the Bulldogs. Gerken edged Tommy Biscotti 7-6 (7-2), 6-1 and Yard topped Noah Ceklosky in straight sets by identical 6-2 scores.

Wyoming Seminary 3, Crestwood 2 - William Hall and Ansareli Atabayev each won straight-sets singles matches to propel the Blue Knights (3-2) to the Wyoming Valley Conference victory last week, handing the Comets their first loss of the season.

Seminary’s doubles team of Christopher Ramos and Aarev

Gupta got the other match point, outlasting Crestwood’s Will Savner and Aaron Kogoy 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 (7-5).

For the Comets, Scott Lenio was a 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 winner over Yicheng Li at #3 singles. Crestwood’s doubles team of Tyler Furedi and Anthony Lettieri defeated Ethan Cai and Pablo-Casla 6-1, 6-1.

2023 NFL draft prospects for these four teams

by Daniel Hepner

Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles are usually active trading during the Draft and sit in an excellent position to move around the board with two 1st round picks (#10 and #30). They lost key defensive pieces and are about to pay quarterback Jalen Hurts, so adding young talent on cheaper contracts will be key if Philly wants to continue building their strong roster.

I love the idea of a team perpetually having two 1st round picks and concocting trades every year to ensure their haul continues. The Eagles can move up or down the board depending on the players they want to target, but a trade down from #10 would net a premium pick (possibly a future 1st rounder).

Any number of teams could be looking to move up and grab a top player who slips to the end of the top 10, or their #30 pick would allow a team to trade up to secure the fifth-year option while the Eagles keep accumulating value and high draft picks (either this year

or next). Philadelphia will add talented players, and history says they will not sit still.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Pittsburgh has been relatively quiet on the trade front early in the Draft, but their most recent trades have involved moving up. The trade in 2019 could scare the Steelers away as they gave up #20 and #52 that year and a 3rd rounder in 2020 for linebacker Devin Bush. While Bush showed flashes, Pittsburgh let him leave in free agency this year. But, of course, the Steelers would never make that same move knowing the outcome.

A trade early in the Draft seems unlikely based on recent seasons, but the Steelers could move up for a cornerback if a run starts in the 1st round. Many mock drafts have Pittsburgh targeting a corner after losing Cameron Sutton to the Lions, and at #17, they could be sitting with the top three options at the position already off the board. Moving up a few spots would secure a top option in the defensive backfield.

New York Giants: New York re-signed several receivers and traded for tight end Darren Waller, but there is still a hole at wide receiver that could be filled. The Chargers, Ravens, Vikings, and Jaguars pick directly before the Giants and could use receiver help, so moving up ahead of those teams would allow New York their pick of a pass catcher, especially if a WR1 is on the board.

If the Giants want to trade down like last season, they could look to the Bills (#27), Saints (#29), and Chiefs (#31) as aggressive teams at the end of the 1st round, possibly looking to trade up. As the Giants did last year, trading down on days 2 and

3 is an easy way to add late value.

New York Jets: The Jets hit two home runs in the 1st round of the 2022 draft and look poised to contend in 2023 if Aaron Rodgers comes in and plays at a high level. The division is one of the best in football, so New York can’t expect to make minor moves and still hang at the top. The AFC will be an absolute dogfight, especially with Rodgers switching conferences.

Assuming the Jets don’t trade the #13 pick to the Packers for Rodgers, many mock drafts have the Jets

picking an offensive tackle. I agree with that logic and wouldn’t be surprised to see New York trade up if a run starts. The Bears (#9) and Titans (#11) are popular landing spots for the top tackles, so the Jets could look to move ahead of both teams or trade up with the Eagles at #10 if the Bears take a tackle. The Raiders at #7 also loom, so New York could eye getting #8 from the Falcons.

Daniel Hepner is keen on using analytics in his NFL analyses. He writes at The Sports Column.

Weatherly Area Baseball

Wreckers top Golden Bears behind James’ arm, bat

Winning pitcher Jack James struck out 11 batters in 6-plus innings, and also drove in two of Weatherly Area’s three runs in last week’s 3-1 Schuylkill League Division III baseball victory over Mahanoy Area, in Mahanoy City.

The Wreckers (2-6, 1-3) won despite having just two hits. Ismail Zuberi hit a sacrifice fly that scored James in the first-inning, and James had a two-run single in the second. Ian McLaurin added a single for

Weatherly.

Mike Oblas drove in the Golden Bears’ only run in the fifth inning.

Shenandoah Valley 16, Weatherly Area 0 - The Wreckers ran into a buzzsaw last week, as Shenandoah Valley pitchers allowed no hits for the third straight game as the Blue Devils blanked Weatherly Area for the SIAL Division III win.

Brayden Maksimik pitched the first four innings, striking out nine and walking one to get the win. Chase McCole then struck out the side in the fifth before the 10-run rule ended the game early. The Blue Devils (5-2, 2-0) had no-hit Mahanoy Area and Minersville in their previous

two games. Nine Blue Devils contributed at least one base hit to the 12-hit offensive attack. McCole also delivered the game’s biggest hit, a three-run homer to highlight a 10-run second inning. Kaleb Maksimik added a double, single and two RBI; Brayden Maksimik

Weatherly Area Track & Field

and Brayden Lutz both singled twice and Jake Matta doubled.

In their previous two games, the Devils no-hit Mahanoy Area and Minersville.

Nativity gets track & field win over Wreckers

Nativity swept its Schuylkill League Division II track and field meet with Weatherly Area last week, winning the boys’ meet 10531, and the girls’ meet 78-18.

Boys

Nativity 105, Weatherly Area 31Noah Dolbin won three events, including both hurdles and the long jump, and also ran for the winning 1600 relay team as Nativity got the win. The meet was held at Jim Thorpe High

School.

For the Wreckers, Ian McLaurin captured the 100meter dash in 11.77 seconds and was second in the 200 meters. Teammate Owen Broskoskie won the javelin (120-0), was second in the high jump and third in the long jump.

100 — 1. McLaurin (W) 11.77, 2. Kadiela (N),

3. Spolski (N); 200 — 1. Kadziela (N) 23.58, 2. McLaurin (W), 3. Mills (N); 400 — 1. Gorski (N)

54.50, 2. Mills (N), 3. Steffan (N); 800 — 1. J. Messina (N) 2:08.74, 2. Stank (N), 3. Otero (W);

1,600 — 1. Rossi (N) 4:56.73, 2. Wagner (N),

3. Burke (N); 3,200 — 1. Rossi (N) 11:05.32, 2.

Parker (W), 3. Berger (W); 110 HH — 1. Dolbin (N) 15.57; 300 IH — 1. Dolbin (N) 41.62, 2. Williams (W); 400 relay — 1. Nativity (Mason, Spolski, Gorski, Sanchez) 48.97; 1,600 relay

— 1. Nativity (Kaziela, Gorski, Stank, Dolbin) 3:40.46; 3,200 relay — 1. Nativity (Wagner, Stank, Rossi, J. Messina) 9:01.42; High jump

— 1. Steffan (N) 5-06, 2. Broskoskie (W), 3. L. Messina (N); Long jump — 1. Dolbin (N) 19-07, 2. L. Messina (N), 3. Broskoskie (W); Triple jump — 1. Mills (N) 34-10.25, 2. Wagner (N), 3. L. Messina (N); Shot put — 1. Ziolkowski (N) 40-06.5, 2. Shimko (N), 3. Kimmel (N); Discus — 1. Ziolkowski (N) 90-06, 2. Eubanks (W), 3. Shimko (N); Javelin — 1. Broskoskie (W) 120-0, 2. Rugh (N), 3. Becker (N); Pole vault — No event

Girls

Nativity 78, Weatherly Area 18Melissa Malarkey and Sara Spolski each won three events as Nativity cruised past the short-handed Lady Wreckers.

Freshman Kelly Reiner won the discus (72-7) and javelin (87-10) and was third in the shot put to pace Weatherly Area. Kendall Gerhart was second in the 200 and long jump.

100 — 1. Spolski (N) 13.52, 2. Howell (N), 3. Zimerofsky (N); 200 — 1. Spolski (N), 2. Gerhart (W), 3. Howell (N); 400 — 1. Malarkey (N) 1:07.59, 2. Daynorowicz (N), 3. Yurichek (N); 800 — 1. Sherman (N), 2. Malarkey (N), 3. Daynorowicz (N); 1,600 — 1. Rymarkiewicz (N)

6:25.47, 2. Rushannon (N); 3,200 — No event; 100 HH — 1. Miller (N) 21.19; 300 IH — 1. Miller (N) 1:01.4; 400 relay — 1. Nativity (Miller, Zimerofsky, Howell, Spolski) 56.28; 1,600 relay — No event; 3,200 relay — 1. No event; High jump — 1. Daynorowicz (N) 4-02; Long jump —

1. Malarkey (N) 15-0, 2. Gerhart (W), 3. Miller (N); Triple jump — 1. Malarkey (N) 31-05.5, 2. Spolski (N); Shot put — 1. Kramer (N) 30-10,

2. Zimerofsky (N), 3. Reiner (W); Discus — 1. Reiner (W) 72-7, 2. Kramer (N), 3. Navarro (N); Javelin — 1. Reiner (W) 87-10, 2. Zimerofsky (N), 3. Kramer (N); Pole vault — No event

Maksimik, McCole (5) and Najda, Boris, Kechula; Buck, Zuberi (4) and Eroh. W — B. Maksimik. L — Buck.

Crestwood track teams should be title contenders again

by Steve Stallone Sports Editor

The Crestwood High School track and field teams begin their Wyoming Valley Conference track and field seasons this week, and both bring back a boat load of talented athletes who can make plenty of noise not only in the Wyoming Valley Conference, but at the District 2 Class 3A meet later this spring.

A look at both teams follows:

Crestwood Boys

How would head coach Rob Moulton describe the Crestwood boys’ track and field team this season?

“They are track and field’s version of a scrappy team because it’s a team that’s just going to do what they have to do to make it happen,” Moulton said.

The defending WVC Division 1-champion Comets went 6-0 last spring, but lost a lot of point-getters to graduation. However, the cupboard is by no means bare.

“We have major rebuilding to do after many big-time athletes graduated last year, but I still think this is the type of team that can make noise in the conference,” stated Moulton. “We have so many great kids stepping up as replacements from last year. We really enjoy coaching this group. This crew is going to bring it each and every week, and it should be fun.”

Returning athletes Collin Bogdon (mid-distance), Weston Medvetz (distance), Isaac Mertz (pole vault,

jumps), James Modrovsky (mid-distance), George Jennings (sprints), Ricardo Williams (sprints), John Jones (throws), Zach Sheloski (throws), Ryan Kozich (distance) and Conor Buckley (distance) bring experience and plenty of point potential.

Add in newcomers like Raymer Porro (jumps, sprints), Jaden Shedlock (sprints), Hayden Martincheck (pole vault), Anson Jumper (pole vault, hurdles, jumps), Mason Staude (distance), Jacob Lettieri (distance), Nate Higgins (distance) and Sean Rodgers (throws), and the Comets’ lineup looks pretty formidable.

“We have lots of other returners poised to make an impact in addition to our newcomers,” added Moulton, who pointed to Hazleton Area, Dallas, Pittston Area and WilkesBarre Area as the teams to beat in a stacked WVC Division 1.

The Comets begin their WVC season Wednesday against Wyoming Valley West.

Crestwood Girls

When you mix talent and experience with a strong work ethic, good things usually happen. The Crestwood girls have all of that, and a host of young athletes eager to add to the mix.

“We have a great mixture of returners and upperclassmen with experience, along with newcomers who exhibit enormous potential to make an impact,” offered

Lady Comets head coach Amy Viti. “We are fairly well-balanced throughout all event groups and will certainly be competitive at the conference and district levels.

“Our goal is truly to do our very best each and every meet while having fun, which will result in a very successful season.”

Viti is looking to veterans Emma Guydish (middistance), Maddie Jolie (mid-distance/hurdles), Kayla Kresge (hurdles), Mia Pollack (throws), Tessa Pollack (jumps), Emma Sheloski (sprints), Maddie Carmichael (jumps), Ellie Kozich (distance), Maggie Kozich (distance), Bianca Long (hurdles), Hope Kline (throws) and Sarah Shipton (sprints/pole vault) to be her rocks this spring. Other returning athletes who could make their mark are Emily Delvecchio (sprints), Maggie Riccio (distance), Kaelyn Barker (distance), Natalynn Celmer (pole vault), Evelyn Kruczek (pole vault), Brianna Dessoye (throws) and Olivia Jolie (jumps). With newcomers like Macie Centak (throws), Maddie Danko (distance), Lauren Falcheck (jumps), Alex Geiger (sprints/jumps), Madie Geiger (throws),

Grayce Grazio (sprints/ jumps), Hayley Keiser (sprints/jumps), Katie Kozich (distance), Sophia Tomek (sprints), Kyra Bechtel, (sprints) and CJ Eppley (hurdles) making their presence felt in the preseason, the Lady Comets are looking every bit a title contender after finishing second to Dallas last season.

“I’m amazed day after day how they show up, never complain, and put in the work needed to reach success,” Viti said. “It’s an extremely hard-working and dedicated group of individuals who have the drive and skill to win.”

With a tough schedule, however, there’s very little wiggle room for Lady Comets. “I really feel like every meet we win will be hard earned,” Viti said. “Our conference has a lot of fierce competition, and we will be strategically trying to win every meet.”

Their WVC season begins Wednesday at home with Valley West.

0-0-0

Preview Capsules

Boys

Head coach: Rob Moulton

Assistant coaches: Mike Harth, John Centak, Alayna Martincheck, Andrew Nelson, Olivia Jendrzejewski, Hilari Kilheeney, Mike Kilheeney, Shelby Foster, Avery Meredick, Josh Hooper, Aaron Keller

2022 record: 6-0 WVC Division 1 (division champions)

Key returning athletes: Collin Bogdon, Weston Medvetz, Isaac Mertz, James Modrovsky, George Jennings, Ricardo Williams, John Jones, Zach Sheloski, Ryan Kozich, Conor Buckley

Athletes to watch: Raymer Porro, Jaden Shedlock, Hayden Martincheck, Anson Jumper, Mason Staude, Jacob Lettieri, Nate Higgins, Sean Rodgers

Outlook: Although they were hit hard by graduation, the Comets still have a big group of veterans returning, along with some impressive freshmen. If the “scrappy” Comets surprise teams along the way, they could work their way into the WVC Division 1 title picture once again.

ROSTER

Seniors: George Albright (throws), Luke Barley (sprints), Collin Bogdon (sprints), Conor Buckley (distance), Brady Cook (throws), Gonzalo Lozano (throws),

See CHS TRACK, page 13

HOSTS: Alex & JoAnne Zidock

CHS Track

Continued from page 12

Jason Craig (sprints, hurdles), Christian Groza (throws), Nick Humen (distance), John Jones (throws), Weston Medvetz (distance), Isaac Mertz (pole vault), James Modrovsky (distance), Raymer Porro (jumps), Zach Shelosky (throws).

Juniors: Austin Campbell (distance), Brennen Derba (throws), Justin Hischar (throws), George Jennings (sprints), Grayson Koons (distance), Ryan Kozich (distance), Andrew Lenahan (throws), Dylan Minet (sprints, hurdles), Matthew O’Boyle (throws), Josh Petrey (jumps), Daksh Ray (throws), Dev Ray (TBD), Sean Rodgers (throws), Josh Rotski (throws), Ashton Spaide (throws), Ricardo Williams (sprints, jumps), Chris Wojceichowski (sprints), Endertis Zacharias (TBD).

Sophomores: Matteo Belanchik (throws), Jayden Castrumen (throws), Kyle Draina (throws), Kia Esfahani (jumps, throws), Brady Greveria (distance), Nate Higgins (distance), Owen Kline (sprints, jumps), Collin Lazo (sprints), Michael Lazovich (sprints, hurdles), Jacob Lettieri (distance), Kevin Luther (distance), Maison Petzold (sprints), Johnathan Phillips (throws).

Freshmen: Anson Jumper (sprints, hurdles), Hayden Martincheck (sprints, jumps), Jaden Shedlock (sprints), Nathan Simpson (sprints), Logan Spaide (sprints, hurdles), Mason Straude (distance), Noah Marsico (jumps).

SCHEDULE

April: 6 - at Northwest Invitational; 12 - Wyoming Valley West (x); 18 - Pittston Area (x); 20 - at Dallas (x); 22 - at Shippensburg Invitational; 25 - Hazleton Area (x).

May: 1 - at Wilkes-Barre Area (x); 4 - at Berwick (x); 11 - at WVC Coaches Meet; 15-16 - at District 2 3A Championships; 26-27 - at PIAA Championships.

(x) - WVC meet Girls

Head coach: Amy Viti

Assistant coaches: Mike Harth, John Centak, Alayna Martincheck, Andrew Nelson, Olivia Jendrzejewski, Hilari Kilheeney, Mike Kilheeney, Shelby Foster, Avery Meredick, Josh Hooper, Aaron Keller

2022 record: 5-1 WVC Division 1

Key returning athletes: Kayla Kresge, Mia Pollack, Emma Sheloski, Maddie Carmichael, Ellie Kozich, Maggie Kozich, Bianca Long, Kaelyn Barker, Hope Kline, Emily Leicht, Ella Novelli, Sarah Shipton, Emily Delvecchio, Maggie Riccio, Natalynn Celmer, Evelyn Kruczek, Brianna Dessoye, Olivia

Jolie

Athletes to watch: Macie Centak, Maddie Danko, Lauren Falcheck, Alex Geiger, Madie Geiger, Grayce Grazio, Hayley Keiser, Katie Kozich, Sophia Tomek, Kyra Bechtel, CJ Eppley

Outlook: Hard-working, talented, experienced and deep, the Lady Comets seem to have the ingredients in place to make a run at a WVC Division 1 championship, and make a lot of noise come time for districts next month.

ROSTER

Seniors: Emma Babato (sprints), Emma Guydish (distance), Maddie Jolie (sprints), Kayla Kresge (sprints, hurdles), Nicole Langan (jumps), Sam Olszyk (jumps), Mia Pollack (throws), Tessa Pollack (jumps), Andreine Pratt (throws), Emma Sheloski (sprints).

Juniors: Cadee Cameron (distance), Maddie Carmichael (hurdles, jumps), Emily Delvecchio (sprints), Brianna Dessoye (throws),

CJ Eppley (sprints), Scarlett Evans (distance), Ellie Kozich (distance), Maggie Kozich (distance), Naviah Labar (sprints, hurdles), Megan Laskoski (distance), Biannca Long (sprints, hurdles), Jenna Medvetz (sprints, hurdles), Maggie Riccio (distance), Alese Ritts (throws), Cheyenne Straub (throws), Anna Thomas (sprints), Juliette Witkowski (jumps), Mehren Hibba (TBD), Enderlis Martinez (TBD).

Sophomores: Isabel Alicea (TBD), Vidhi Bansal (throws, hurdles), Kaelyn Barker (distance), Natalynn Celmer (sprints, pole vault), Katie Charsky (distance), Chloe Costello (sprints, pole vault), Isabella Cyphert (sprints), Clara Garcia (sprints), Olivia Jolie (sprints, jumps), Hope Kline (throws), Evelyn Kruczek (sprints, pole vault), Emily Leicht (distance), Tessa Miller (throws), Katie Modrovsky (distance), Ella Novelli (distance), Marissa Sanders (sprints), Audre

Shebelock (throws), Sarah Shipton (sprints, hurdles).

Freshmen: Jordan Ceklosky (sprints), Macie Centak (throws), Madalyn Danko (sprints, distance), Lauren Falcheck (sprints, jumps, hurdles), Alexandra Geiger (sprints, hurdles, jumps), Madi Geiger (throws), Grayce Grazio (sprints), Hayley Keiser (sprints, jumps, hurdles), Katie Kozich (distance), Sophia Tomek (sprints), Kyra Vechtel (sprints, jumps, hurdles), Sydney Werger (pole vault).

SCHEDULE

April: 6 - at Northwest Invitational; 12 - Wyoming Valley West (x); 18 - Pittston Area (x); 20 - at Dallas (x); 22 - at Shippensburg Invitational; 25 - Hazleton Area (x). May: 1 - at Wilkes-Barre Area (x); 4 - at Berwick (x); 11 - at WVC Coaches Meet; 15-16 - at District 2 3A Championships; 26-27 - at PIAA Championships.

(x) - WVC meet

Rays are setting records

by Brandon King

The MLB season is in full swing and the Tampa Bay Rays are apparently the best team in baseball. The Rays are 10-0 after beating the Boston Red Sox 1-0 on Monday (10th). They are the first team to accomplish this feat to go 10-0 since the 1987 Milwaukee Brewers.

It is a very long season and the Rays have not played a top talent so far this season but still a very very impressive start to the year for this team. What is mind blowing even more is the Rays have done it with the third lowest payroll in the entire league. The only two teams paying their teams less are the Baltimore Orioles and the Oakland Athletics. The Orioles are at 5-5 on the year while the Athletics are at 2-8.

Looks may be a bit deceiving though as this 10-0 team has only played the other bottom feeders of the league, sweeping the 2-7

Detroit Tigers who finished last season 30 games below .500, taking down the Nationals on the road, currently 3-7 after finishing last season 55-107 - dead last in all of the MLB. The other team they beat are the Oakland Athletics who as I mentioned before are currently 2-8 and have the lowest payroll in baseball after having the second worst record last year at 60-102. They beat their first above .500 club in the Boston Red Sox, currently 5-4, a division rival. Should Rays fans be concerned about this? No, absolutely not. This Tampa Bay team came into the year with low expectations and fans more concerned about if the stadium should stay in St. Petersburg or be forced to move into actual Tampa. The Rays did make a wild card spot last season after finishing 86-76 but they did not do much with it, losing to the Cleveland Guardians.

The highest paid player on the Rays is being paid $11 million dollars a year. In comparison, the Phillies’ third string pitcher is paid $18 million dollars. The Rays will not keep this up the entire season, going undefeated in baseball is almost impossible, but they have Tampa Bay fans talking about something other than football or hockey and the MLB world putting this once forgotten franchise on center stage. The Rays outscored their opponents 75-18 through 10 games, the last three being complete shutouts where they posted 23 runs while allowing 0. Young superstar shortstop Wander Franco is batting a .351 with 4 home runs which is just one off of the lead for home runs in the MLB. Franco is only 22 and in his 3rd season in the MLB. Will this young team keep up a historic pace or will the season, and having too much youth, catch up to this headturning team?

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Grappler

Lady Wreckers pick up two Schuylkill softball wins

Madisyn vonFrisch pitched a one-hitter and helped her cause at the plate with four RBIs as Weatherly Area shut out host Mahanoy Area 12-0 last week in a Schuylkill League Division III softball contest played in Mahanoy City.

vonFrisch paced the offense with a triple and two singles. In the circle, she struck out 12 and issued just two walks, improving to 4-2 this spring.

Abby Weston contributed a triple and two singles for the Lady Wreckers (5-2 overall, 3-2 league), while

Crestwood Lacrosse Roundup

Kelly Michaels and Juliette Bartel had two each. Rachel Rosenlund laced a double.

Weatherly

Weatherly Area 5, Shenandoah Valley 3Abby Weston knocked in

two runs with a triple as the host Lady Wreckers overcame an early deficit to rally past Shenandoah Valley for the Schuylkill League Division III win last week in Weatherly.

The Lady Wreckers scored all five of their runs in the bottom of the fourth inning.

Crestwood lacrosse teams steam ahead with victories

Osten Grigas scored four goals and Jason Swank notched four assists on Monday, leading the Crestwood boys’ lacrosse team past visiting North Pocono 17-1.

Noah Schultz, Brendan Dennis, Ashton Amend and Caleb Eisenhauer added two goals each for the Comets (6-1). Swank, Justin McCune, Jack Augustine, Levi Schuler and Frank Usavage all scored once, Amend, Augustine, Usavage, Mason Tomek, Robert Knight and Logan Rolles each had one assist.

North Pocono’s goal came from Riley Moore with

Gavin Phillips on the assist. Crestwood’s Ethan Zabroski had five saves in goal, and North Pocono’s Thomas MacDonald made 16 saves.

The Comets host Holy Redeemer on Wednesday.

Girls

Crestwood 23, North Pocono 10Isabella Caporuscio led Crestwood’s scoring onslaught with 12 goals, and Morgan Koons recorded 19 goalie saves as the Lady Comets stormed past North Pocono last week.

Julia Glowacki scored three goals and assisted

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

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on five others, and Grace Pasternick added three goals and an assist for Crestwood. In addition, Kennedie Huber had two goals and two assists; while Hannah Ziegler, Jordan Andrews and Aubrey Macri each had solo goals. Caporuscio posted two assists, and teammates Olivia Jardine and Macri each had one assist.

North Pocono’s Amaya Monacelli scored seven goals, including the 100th of her career.

Crestwood 16, Wyoming Seminary 5Caporuscio posted seven goals and two assists, Glowacki recorded four goals and five assists, and Ziegler notched five goals in the Lady Comets’ decisive win.

Maddie Olshemski and Sadie Gilbert each had

two goals for Wyoming Seminary.

Winning goalie Morgan Koons made nine saves. Eva Blaum stopped eight shots for the Blue Knights.

Liberty Belles golf at JFN

Liberty Belles Golf League has moved to Jack Frost National.

The start date is May 15, at 3 p.m. League play ends in September.

All levels of golfers are welcome.

For further information, contact Jeanne Bingham at 570-401-9561 or email her at jeannecbingham@gmail. com.

Anna Bloom added two singles for Weatherly Area.

Kelly Michaels, Adrianna Dotzel, Aisha Zuberi and Rachel Rosenlund all singled in the win.

Madisyn vonFrisch struck out a whopping 17 Blue Devil batters, recording all but four of the outs for the Lady Wreckers.

Vanessa Coyle had a double and single to pace Shenandoah Valley’s five-hit attack.

Shenandoah Vy........ 100 001 1 — 3 5 1 Weatherly Area........000 500 x — 5 7 1 Davis and Coyle; vonFrisch and Paulino-Diaz. W — vonFrisch. L — Davis.

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