The Journal-Herald, Thursday, June 20, 2024

theJournal-herald

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2024 • Volume 43 – No. 43

©2024, THE JOURNAL-HERALD. All Rights Reserved

CONTINUING: THE WHITE HAVEN JOURNAL ESTABLISHED 1879–145th YEAR, NO. 30

CONTINUING: THE WEATHERLY HERALD ESTABLISHED 1880–145th YEAR, NO. 4

Signs of the times?

If the signs erected around White Haven and in Kidder Township on Monday are any indication, heavy equipment to begin work on the Interstate 80 bridge reconstruction project may finally be arriving in our area. Though still covered, like the sign in the center picture, River Road closure signs begin at the top of Berwick Street and are in place on the bridge. Lehigh Gorge State Park directional signs have been put into place going west on Route 940 (Berwick Street), and along Church Street going north. Road Closed signs are at the ready, as of press time still stored at the Wagman building on Main Street. Neither the Wagman website nor the PennDOT District 5 project pages provide a timeline.

Uniform sewer hook-up fees suggested for Penn Lake

by Suzanne Winters

This month’s Penn Lake Borough council work session included discussion over the borough’s sewer hook-up fee and how the fee should be set. Borough solicitor John Dean advised council this must be the same set fee for all property owners, and asked why there was such a variance in sewer fees between properties.

According to council members Paul Rogan and Corey Beltz, the reason is due to the distance

from the grinder pump to the sewer line on each property. Some property owners placed the pump closer to the line and others may have placed it farther away, which involved more digging and piping, costing the borough more money for the hook-up. It was decided to do more work on a sewer hook-up fee schedule which would be discussed again at future meetings. The current hook-up fee is $11,300.

During the regular meeting following the work session, Beltz

advised council there was one new sewer application received this past month for Horseshoe Drive. There were 4 new grinder pump change outs, and only 3 pumps left in reserve. Council voted to acquire a new supply of grinder pumps from Site Specific. The company offered a $50 per unit discount on the pumps when buying 6 or more, and an additional $50 when buying 12 pumps. Council approved purchasing 12 new grinder pumps at a cost of $32,727 and passed a motion

authorizing $33,000 for this purchase.

Beltz also said he spoke with Aqua Pennsylvania employee Robbie Gower about possibly flushing out the sewer system, to determine if there was an issue somewhere causing grinder pumps to fail. He suggested council meet with Gower to See PENN LAKE, page 5

JH: Ruth Isenberg

THE JOURNAL-HERALD

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

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Ruth Isenberg, Editor

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

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editoriAl

Road Readiness

by Ruth Isenberg

As the pictures on page 1 of this issue show, construction on the Interstate 80 project is getting close. One of the first results we will see is the closure of River Road from East Side into Kidder Township, so heavy equipment can be parked there for the next four years. This will obviously represent a hardship to the people who live along the road. For the rest of us, it will be a minor inconvenience most of the time.

In the beginning, it may be a major incovenience, as Route 940 through East Side and continuing east into Blakeslee is still undergoing tar and chip work. The job, which started in May, was a cause of traffic tie-ups when it first took place. Motorists complained about damage to tires, and cracks to windshields.

The contractor came back, and removed the surface. That’s how it still is, as of press time. According to what East Side Mayor Eric Siglin learned, the company that produced the oil for the project didn’t meet the specifications, hence the tire issues.

Would it be better to just re-pave the road? According to PennDOT, tar and chip is a third of the cost of new paving. By using tar and chip to preserve roads, the thinking goes, money can be directed to full road replacements on a rotating basis. And the process has some advantages. The oil (tar) seals the cracks in the roads, and preserves asphalt longer. It has to be done in the summer, because the base road needs to be at least 40° for the material to stick properly. The chips (stone) are needed to allow the oil to dry properly.

While that’s happening, loose stone can fly up and crack windshields. Bikers (both motorcycle and bicycle) find it dangerous, and cars travelling too fast can skid as well.

Paying attention is key. Heed the signs, slow down, and learn some patience. That’s a trait we’re all going to need to develop over the next four years.

Archives

From The Journal-Herald Issue of June 16, 1994 Editors & Publishers Jay and Clara Holder

The front page photo was of Weatherly mayor Richard Knepper presenting a commendation to patrolman Brian Cara, who is credited with saving members of the Wickkiser family from a fire that engulphed their apartment building in January. The photo includes Mike Wickkiser and his son Christopher, and chief of police Robert Koch.

An inside photo shows four generations of the Bruzgulis family Charlie of RR1 White Haven, his son Charles Jr., granddaughter Beth Ann Lopez, and two great-grandchildren. The family had a party at the White Haven Community Building.

Crestwood plans to study options on the feasibility of expansion on the high school grounds.

Grover Gerhard sent a letter to the Hazleton City Authority asking for a study of suggested hydrant locations along Wetzel Run Road and by Route 93 at Quakake Road.

Carol Cotton made a word search for her Kid’s Corner.

Steve Stallone wrote a story about the NASCAR race, won by Rusty Wallace.

Phil Engman was Ramblin’ On about the NY Rangers and Knicks and their difficulties in their respective playoffs.

Phil Jeffries invited readers to join him in the Wrecker 5K Fun Run this Sunday.

The issue had the layout of this weekend’s Weatherly Block Party at Eurana Park on the 18th and 19th, and a four-tabloid page pull-out about Eckley Miner’s Village Patch Town Day on the 19th.

This week’s Dine-Out column was about the Fern Restaurant in Weatherly. Turkey tetrazzini for me, crab au gratin for Ruth and a ham sandwich for our nephew David, who was visiting us. The food was good, and the atmosphere relaxed for a family meal.

From The Journal-Herald Issue of June 21, 1984 Editors & Publishers Jay and Clara Holder

Music Machine was presented by the Sunday school students of the White Haven United Methodist Church on June 10. A photo shows Joanna Brunner, Angela Shappel, Tanya Johns, Kelly Orlowskey, Beth Zimmerman, John Muendlein, Brian Johns, Kristen Murray, Stephanie Murray, Cally Shrader and Mancy Johnson, Doug Johnson, Todd Zimmerman, Jennifer Yarmey, Darla Gallagher, Tom Zimmerman, Darrin Gallagher and Camie Paul, Scott Belisle, Pete Belisle, Rich Zimmerman (who played the conductor), and Kurt Keiper.

In the 1970 census, White Haven borough’s population was reduced by nearly 700 persons, based on the relocation of the White Haven Center to Foster Township. When this decade’s census came around, the population dropped in the borough by 190. Research found that the White Haven Center had a 190 person drop in its population, and that number was deducted from White Haven borough by mistake it should have been from Foster Township. Borough secretary Elaine Myers put in some hard work getting the answers to this mystery. The numbers were corrected…ahead of allocations for revenue sharing and liquid fuels…and PA Dept. of Environmental Resources projects.

As part of Awards Day at the Weatherly Area Middle School, students received honors and

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE Hearing & Meeting Cancellation

The public hearing scheduled for June 24, 2024 at 7:00 pm at the White Haven Municipal Building, to consider an Ordinance Amending Chapter 18, Motor Vehicles and Traffic to include part 8, Towing and Towing Storage, as they relate to Tow Truck Operators and establishing fines and suspensions for violations has been cancelled.

The regular borough council meeting scheduled to follow the hearing is also cancelled.

Linda Szoke Borough Manager

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Joan E. Boyle, of Freeland, Pennsylvania, in the Estate of Margaret M. Graham a/k/a Margaret Mary Graham, late of Freeland, Pennsylvania, who died on May 4, 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:

Alexis C. Falvello, Esquire

THE FALVELLO LAW FIRM, P.C.

641 State Route 93

PA 18249

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Jean Ann Belletiere, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, in the Estate of Gregory A. Belletiere, late of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, who died on May 8, 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:

Alexis C. Falvello, Esquire

THE FALVELLO LAW FIRM, P.C.

641 State Route 93 Sugarloaf, PA 18249 6/27

6/27

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Harsh Gandhi, of Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania, in the Estate of Rose Elaine Maresca a/k/a Rose Maresca, late of Sugarloaf Twp., Pennsylvania, who died on April 20, 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 Executor named or to:

Conrad A. Falvello, Esquire THE FALVELLO LAW FIRM, P.C.

641 State Route 93 Sugarloaf, PA 18249 6/27

THELMA CRAIGLE

obituAries

SHARLEEN K. GRAAF

Sharleen K Graaf, 84, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and nana, sadly passed away on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at Lehigh Valley Hospital Hazleton Campus, surrounded by her loved ones.

Born Thursday, June 29, 1939 in Great Falls, Montana and currently resided in West Hazleton, she was the daughter of the late Charles O. and Ruby (Hensley) Hedrick, and also predeceased by brothers, Charles and James Hedrick.

Surviving are her husband of 63 wonderful years, Marvin F. Graaf, Sr.; children, Robin J. Warg, Sharyl K. Greco and her companion Art, Brian E. Graaf and his companion Kathy, Marvin F. “Gypsie” Graaf and his wife Wanda, Charles “Chip” Graaf, Dwayne R. Graaf and his wife Christine, Robert D. Graaf;

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brother, Robert “Skip” Hedrick; 31 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren.

Sharleen earned her Associates Degree in Secretarial Science, while raising her children. She retired from Contour Foam as a secretary.

An avid member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hazleton, she was a member of Order of the Eastern Star for many years.

Sharleen’s most prized possession was her family. She took pride in family get-togethers and going to sporting events for her children and most recently her great-grandsons. She was a devoted Philadelphia sports fan, cheering on the Phillies and Eagles. Her enduring love, commitment to family and vivid personality will forever be entrenched in all the lives she has touched throughout the years.

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

Funeral service was held June 18, from Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church with Rev. Wayne Kaufman officiating.

Interment was in Union Cemetery, Weatherly.

Memorials in Sharleen’s name to:

American Parkinson Disease Association P.O. Box 61420

Staten Island New York 10306

Online condolences or a fond memory of Sharleen may be made to the family at www. griffithsfuneralhomes.com

Thelma (Stewart) Craigle, 99 years of age of Weatherly, passed away peacefully on Tuesday June 11, 2024, at home in Packer Township while in the care of her daughter.

Born Sunday, February 8, 1925 in Weatherly, she was the daughter of the late Wallace and Christine (Schwartz) Stewart. Thelma was also predeceased by husband, Alvin E. Craigle; son, Robert A. Craigle, and an infant son, David; and brother, Harry Stewart.

Surviving are daughter, Linda A. Craigle with whom she resided; sister, Irene Frye of Weatherly; grandchildren,

Michelle R. Schaeffer, wife of Edward, Melissa Jo Craigle, Melinda R. Craigle; daughter-inlaw, Rita Craigle of Weatherly. A homemaker, Thelma was a devoted member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses of Hazleton. A talented seamstress, Thelma cherished time with her family and her dog, Peaches. Private arrangements have been entrusted to the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Weatherly.

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

WILLIAM HOLLINGSWORTH

William Hollingsworth of White Haven passed away suddenly on Friday, June 14, 2024 at the age of 62. He was born in Philadelphia on Friday, March 30, 1962. He is preceded in death by his parents, William Hollingsworth Sr. and Nora Shields; his father-in-law Phillip Costa; and his two sons, Billy and Jesse Hollingsworth. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Carla Costa; their daughter Erin Hollingsworth and the loving extended family: Vivian Costa, Chase Weichman, Jen Quevedo, Silas Zink and Kylo Bean, who all meant the world to him.

Will was a devoted father and husband. He lived every day for his family. Whatever anyone needed at any time, he was there. He enjoyed rides on his Harley, the company of his fat cat Hamilton, going to his camper hideaway outside of LBI where he would sit by the fire with a fruity drink, spend time with his family and walk his grandpuppy Kylo Bean on

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the beach. He was part of the successful trivia team “The Toe Beans” where once they almost finished higher than 6th place. He loved to cook NY strip for Kylo and Carla (in that order). He would drive Carla to see the sunsets where they would sit and think about their boys. He would visit Billy and Jesse every day, without fail, always making sure that everything was in place and perfect.

Will proudly loved to watch his grandson Silas play many sports. He cherished his sister June and his nephew Bobby, whose selfless organ donation gave him many more years with his family. Will loved his family vacations. There was never a time he wasn’t planning the next trip to Universal Studios, which always seemed to start on our last day with the help of Erin of course. He was just a big kid having a blast seeing and doing things for the 100th time was still like the first time for him. This joy spread to all those around him. Those moments will be cherished forever thanks to him. He was a simple man, who loved simple joys in life.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Weatherly.

A Celebration of Will’s Life will be announced.

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

Penn Lake

Continued from page 1

discuss this possibility, and to find out who would flush the system and who is responsible for paying for it.

Mayor Tom Carter was not present. Rogan noted he needed to discuss the borough’s Emergency Action Plan with the mayor.

Secretary Karen Burden noted there is a Zoning Board hearing on June 25 for the property at 1155 Lakeview Drive concerning dimensional variances and a non-conforming structure.

The Secretary also reported two complaints had been received. First was complaints over someone throwing bags of dog waste on Lakeview Drive. Pictures were included, as well as several residents in the audience agreeing with the complaint, having seen the same thing.

Several complaints were also received concerning the uncut grass on the dam and

the roadsides. Rogan said this should have been done and he would contact contractor Kislan.

Council member Sue George’s recreation report breathed new life into the pickleball court project, and after some discussion, she said she would contact Kevin Cronauer for an update on his progress with the court before requesting further funding for the project.

George also noted she has seen Biros in the borough servicing the Porta Potties, and asked if there were any issues with them. There were no complaints from anyone in the audience.

Council member Dan Eustice reported on Lake Management, Geese and Roads. Water testing has begun, and the e. coli levels have been under the limit except for one test. The results are posted on the website. He reported the Department of Health also did a beach inspection.

Eustice also reported Natureworks has been acquired by a new company. They have been doing the bladderwort spraying on the lake. Later in the meeting the council voted to have Eustice obtain quotes for spraying, authorizing an amount not to exceed $650 for the treatment.

Eustice had nothing new to report regarding the geese.

There will be a walk-through with Aqua next week to check the status of their current projects per Eustice. He also reported there would be milling and paving throughout

the borough on Monday and Tuesday.

There was nothing new to report regarding Records, per council member John Burden. He did express some concerns during the work session regarding an Emergency Management Coordinator. Apparently, several people were approached regarding the position, but all have declined.

During the meeting’s unfinished business discussions, Burden said he had no news regarding Code Enforcement. He said per borough regulations, the borough can designate someone for code enforcement. The solicitor stated the borough can amend ordinances as necessary to authorize who can enforce them.

There was some discussion concerning naming an alternate Zoning Officer and designating that person to do code enforcement, but there was no commitment to this option. Burden suggested they continue cleaning up the borough ordinances with regard to enforcement. He said currently they are using the solicitor to enforce ordinances.

Rogan asked Burden to also put together a list of any projects in the borough where they can utilize the remaining ARPA funds, since the planned drainage project on Hollenback Road is no longer feasible due to the proximity to the water line. They again briefly discussed combining several smaller drainage projects into one

proposal.

Burden also reported there is a Short-Term Rental (STR) nuisance violation hearing on July 3 at 10 a.m. for a garbage issue.

The secretary noted a realtor inquired about “saving” an STR spot for a possible sale of a property. She advised the realtor these are first come, first served and a spot cannot be reserved. There are currently 8 STR properties designated in the borough, with 7 properties already with STR permits.

Rogan gave a dam report. There was a Dam Advisory Group (DAG) meeting on May 18. He said there is a $1.4 million dollar shortfall, and that the borough received an additional $100,000 gaming grant for the dam project. The DAG continues to work with DEP and local authorities and politicians to move the project forward. There is not a lot of cooperation from DEP, according to Rogan.

Rogan noted there is a public meeting regarding the dam progress and status at the Community House, scheduled for July 28. He was not sure of the time, but thought it to be 1 p.m.

A resolution was passed to forgive erroneous double billing of garbage fees. Rogan explained some properties were reassessed due to home improvements, then were rebilled by the county for another trash fee on the second tax statements.

The borough voted to donate $500 to White Haven Area Community Library in support of the summer Food and Fun program.

There was no public comment at the beginning or the end of the meeting.

Rails to Trails discusses linkage to Weatherly and Heritage Corridor

by Jim Dino

A local engineering company is the apparent low bidder to study a route to build a loop hiking and biking trail to connect Weatherly to the Hazleton Rails to Trails trail system.

Connecting Weatherly to the Hazleton trail would also connect the borough to the larger Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor Trail that reaches from the Ashley Plains in Luzerne County some 162 miles to Bristol in Bucks County, following the path of the Delaware and Lehigh canals and rivers which ferried anthracite coal to Philadelphia to fuel the Industrial Revolution.

Tom Hall, a member of the Rails to Trails committee, told the Greater Hazleton Civic Partnership Board at their latest meeting held at the trailhed on East Broad Street in Hazleton Tuesday June 18 that Barry Isett Engineering submitted a $50,000 bid to the Borough of Weatherly for the work.

The Civic Partnership has agreed to contribute $7,500 toward the project.

Joe Yannuzzi, the Partnership’s executive director,

said Vito’s Landscaping is installing the mine culvert along the trail, but an extension beyond the June 30 deadline has been applied for to make sure there is enough time to finish the job properly.

Yannuzzi said there is $4,000 left over from a Luzerne County grant he intends to use to make the Ashmore Road suitable for part of the trail. And the driveway entrance to the trail will be patched, sealed and lines painted for $9.000.

Also, four new memorial benches have been finished, and four more will be made because they have been sold, Yannuzzi said. Cement statues of bears at the trailhed will be painted and updated by art students from the Hazleton Area School District.

Cal Herring, the Partnership’s administrative assistant, said a work party from North Point, which is building the 1-million square-foot warehouse across the street from the trail on the Heights Beltway, did a work session cleanup at the trail. Herring hopes they will make it an annual event in the spring, and MMI Preparatory School students can do it in the fall so the trail gets the treatment twice a year.

Continued from page 2

certificates, including for the Carbon County Spelling Bee, the PA Mathematics League, and Justin McCarthy Primitive Art contest award winners.

July 5, 6 and 7 is the Weatherly Area Homecoming Celebration, and dedication of the Weatherly Plaza Saturday morning at 11 o’clock with local dignitaries, the WASD Brass Ensemble and more. The Hazleton-St. Joseph Satellite medical center will have an open house all weekend and begin service on the 9th. A tabloid titled “The Celebration Times” was to be printed and distributed to homes in the Weatherly, White Haven and Beaver Meadows areas. (If anyone has a copy, we’d be grateful to see it and take photos to create a digital copy that can be shared.)

The White Haven Thriftway advertised that they would give away White Haven Firemen’s Carnival rides tickets to 50 winners drawing July 7. Also in the ad Boneless Chuck Roast $1.39/lb. and London Broil $1.79/lb.

Don Garber wrote about Little League, T-Ball, Jr. Babe Ruth and Legion baseball games. Among the notes David Novitsky and Steve Bartol entered the Back Mountain 50 Miler bike race. Of 100 entrants, David came in 6th overall, second in his age group. Steve had a flat tire, but still managed to come in 15th (16 minutes behind David).

Phil Olivera wrote an article saluting the White Haven Warriors girls’ softball team. Trish Heimbach, Brenda Pierce and Dawn Olivera went on to be successful at Crestwood. Dawn helped lead her junior high team to the Wyoming Valley Championship. Also, Tina Fiorani, who graduated from Freeland High School last year, now plays for the Freeland Elkettes in the All-American softball league. Crestwood’s senior class president Sue Sklaney lettered in cross-country and track, and Patti Gavinski lettered in field hockey and volleyball.

From The Journal Issue of June 15, 1944

Editor W.C. Taylor

People of White Haven and vicinity will have a chance to help in winning the war, and at the same time enjoying themselves with a War Bond Premier film (never before shown in the vicinity) shown at the Legion Theatre

The oiling of our borough streets is progressing. Most streets have been widened out from curb-to-curb. This does away with much of the weed growing at the sides.

White Haven was credited with 3,290 pounds of salvage tin cans in the latest drive. Although the schools are now closed for summer vacation, the tin can and paper salvage must go on.

The D-Day invasion of Normandy was saluted with a full page war bond ad.

seth’s sightiNgs

Sightings this week include my first hummingbird a female looking for a feeder. On night drives, we are often sighting foxes, but the real challenge has been avoiding deer which are more often becoming road hazards. Ruth believes that many of these are young, clueless bucks. I will say that now that the antlers are beginning to sprout, she may have a point…young and dumb.

Saturday, we used the mild day to mow the yard, knowing that hot weather was predicted this week. HOT is not my favorite temperature. Give me days in the 70s and nights in the low 60s. Our fans are out, and next comes installation of the window air conditioner.

The mountain laurel bloom in Hickory Run State Park is fabulous. Take a ride through to enjoy the show.

Ruth gained revenge on the nest that gave her and our dog, Bull, stings. Hornet spray at dusk did the deed. Now we need to remove the nest from inside the bell…we use the bell to call the dogs in, and Ruth

rang it…

Sunday afternoon, we went out in search of strawberries, and found them at Gould’s Farm. Heckman’s Orchards had run out but did have cherries. We came home with quarts of fruit, and are making a dent in those daily so that we can go out and get more.

Cherry season is shorter than strawberry season. The heat might make a big difference so here’s hoping the berries like being hot.

Gas prices are now below $3.40 in Lehighton, and getting close at the White Haven 940 Plaza store and the Wawa at the Turnpike.

Celtics basketball fans are celebrating. The men in green put on a dominant show on the Garden’s parquet floor in game five to earn another championship banner, their 18th the most in the NBA. Fans are excited in that the team is keeping its players, with the same lineup expected for next year to pursue banner 19.

Ruth and I attended the first play of the PA Shakespeare

by seth iseNberg

Festival at DeSales University, the comedy The Play That Goes Wrong, which made us laugh. We arrived for the Green Show, which had a Mummers band from Philly performing. It was nice to be outside in the shade, versus coming in at the very last minute before curtain time. We came inside to the comfort of the Main Stage seating just before show time. The DeSales Main Stage theater is always nice, especially in hot weather.

The Festival at DeSales University in Center Valley, south of Allentown, now offers the musical The Last Five Years through June 30, evenings and matinees in the Schubert Theater.

Coming up, Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor, opening June 26, and running through July 7 on the Main Stage. The season continues with the musical, The Color Purple, on the Main Stage July 17 through August 4.

In the smaller Schubert space will be Shakespeare’s Cymbeline, opening July 24 and concluding on August 4.

There is also a full schedule of children’s theatre productions. Winnie-the-Pooh & Friends is playing in the Schubert Theatre, July 5 to August 3, while Shakespeare for Kids will present Twelfth Night on the Main Stage, July 24 to August 3.

For more information, and to buy tickets go to pashakespeare.org or call (610) 282-WILL. Prices range from $47 to $38 per ticket, depending on the show. DeSales U. is about an hour’s drive via the Turnpike to Route 309 south.

And about tickets, I still have some tickets to the NASCAR Truck Series race on Friday July 12 (one set is claimed). The race starts at 5:30 p.m. Send an e-mail to journalseth@pa.metrocast. net or a letter to NASCAR Truck Race, Journal-Herald, 211 Main Street, White Haven, PA 18661. Include your phone number and address – and write something you like about our Journals.

Congratulations to the Classes of 2024

of Crestwood & Weatherly Area schools

The Rotary Club of Weatherly installed three new members at a June meeting. Beth, second from left, and Matt Eroh and Georgia Handwerk were installed by Rotary District 7410 Assistant Governor Pat Ward, left. Denise Stadnik is the club president. Anyone interested in joining the Weatherly Rotary can contact Stadnick at: denisestadnik@ gmail.com.

Members of Unit 360 presented members of the Weatherly Police Department with Dunkin’ gift cards in honor of National Police Week, to thank them for keeping our community safe. Shown from left are Unit 360 president Georgia Farrow, Officer Michael Eyer, Theresa D’Andrea, Unit 360 and Borough Police Committee member, Officer Joshua Silfee, Georgeann Herling, Unit 360/ CarbonLehigh-Monroe-Northampton District President.

Need an Extra Copy of this issue?

The Journal-Herald is for sale at: White Haven Market, 940 Plaza, and Soapy Bee in White Haven, Wawa at the Turnpike in Kidder, Weasel’s in Dennison, and TJ’s One Stop in Weatherly.

St. Patrick’s Festival is part of 150th celebration

The St. Patrick’s Parish Summer Festival will take place Friday, July 12, and Saturday, July 13, on the parish grounds at 411 Allegheny Street, White Haven, rain or shine.

There will be a flea market, tricky tray, children’s games and a cash raffle.

Food offerings will include American, Polish, Italian, potato pancakes, funnel cakes, homemade desserts, root beer floats, and waffles & ice cream.

Friday will open at 4 p.m. Teacher and Poet will perform from 5 to 8, with grounds closing at 9 p.m.

On Saturday, hours are 1 to 9 p.m.

From 1:30 to 3 p.m., kids can enjoy a Storybook Party with Elsa, Anna, Spiderman and Wonder Woman, to include a story time, tug of war, “Superhero training,” and more. John Stevens Polka Band will perform from 5 to 9 p.m., with a Polka Mass on Saturday at 5 p.m.

St. Patrick’s Parish is celebrate its 150th anniversary this year, and extends an invitation to all to come help celebrate at the Summer Festival.

Craft & flea vendors sought

The American Legon Auxiliary Mountain Unit 781 will be hosting a Craft, Direct Sales and Flea Market and are looking for vendors. This event will be held on Saturday, September 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Legion home, 1550 Henry Drive, Mountain Top, in the downstairs hall and parking lot.

This fundraiser will raise money to provide a playground for the upper pavilion. This will provide a safe place for children to play while visiting the pavilion.

Please contact Antoinette Smith at toniant59@gmail. com or text 570-332-8962 for an application or with any questions. Applications may also be picked up at the Mountain Top Legion.

Cranberry Quilt Guild plans quilt show in Weatherly

It’s that time again. Cranberry Quilt Guild hosts a quilt show every two years. This year, plans are underway for an exciting and colorfully artistic 2-day show to be held, September 14 and 15, at the Weatherly Area Middle School complex.

Visitor favorites include tricky trays, quilt boutique, mini quilt raffle, multiple vendors, and a new feature, ‘the bag ladies,’ with all handmade different size handbags. There will also be the food court area for lunch and freshly baked goodies. The show also will highlight challenges the guild has offered to its members, and a Quilt of Valor program.

Every show has a handmade quilt on display. Chances are available through any member or at the show. This year’s quilt was constructed by Cheryl Shank, and longarm quilted by Cindy Hilfiger, both excellent quilters.

June’s meeting will take place on June 24 at Faith United Church of Christ, off Airport Beltway, Hazle Township. The

evening will feature several quilting demonstrations by fellow guild members. This allows all to see up close the different processes used by quilters to achieve their perfect results. It’s a learning tool for the guild and is offered to enhance skills of all. For those members participating in the

Midnight Stargazer Block of the month, they can bring in Block #1 with a note showing your first name and last initial.

The annual indoor summer picnic will be held at the July meeting. “It’s 5 O’clock somewhere” is the theme this year. Members should plan on a tropical outfit. There will be

sign- up sheets available for members to contribute a side dish of food or a dessert for the evening.

The fat quarter raffle for June is Floral, any color. Show and tell will be held, and light refreshments will be served by the evening’s refreshment committee. New members are welcome.

Summer concert series at Heritage Hill

The sun-sational summer concert series continues at Heritage Hill Senior Community with Joe Stanky and The Cadets playing a variety of music, including polka, country, rock ’n’ roll, and more.

Join us in the parking lot with your lawn chairs or blankets at 800 Sixth St. on Wednesday, June 26, at 6:30 p.m. Complimentary refreshments are available, courtesy of Heritage Hill. Register in advance for a chance to win a door prize. If inclement weather occurs, the concert will move indoors.

To RSVP, please call Rachael at 570-427-4500 or rtimm@ heritagehillsenior.com.

VBS set in Mountain Top

Band 6 to 9

White Haven Fire Co. Social Club parking lot Main Street

Camp Firelight, a Vacation Bible School, will be presented by Christ United Methodist Church of 175 S Main Road, Mountain Top, at the Soccer Field, Monday June 24 - Friday June 28 from 6 - 8:30 p.m. There will be Bible Stories, recreation, crafts, and music. Children from pre-k thru 6th grade are all invited.

Register by calling 570-474-6060 or online christonthemountaintop.org/ vacation-bible-school or in person at the event There is no cost to attend. A can of juice and donations are appreciated.

Two wall hangings recently displayed at the Hazleton art league. Zebra by Judy Lutz and Fall scene by Marie Shulenski.

Journal-Herald Classifieds

5 p.m.

Help Wanted

Anticipated Elementary Teaching Position

The Weatherly Area School District is seeking applicants for an Elementary Teaching Position. All applicants must hold an Elementary Education Certification. Any interested persons should submit a Standard PA teaching application, letter of interest, resume, transcripts, copy of valid PA certificate, Acts 114, 34, 24, and 151 clearances and three recent letters of recommendation to Mr. Daniel M. Malloy, Superintendent, Weatherly Area School District 602 Sixth Street, Weatherly PA 18255. Inquiries may be directed to Judi Kunkle, Administrative Assistant/Superintendent at kunklej@weatherlysd. org, (570) 427-8681.EOE

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THEME: THE 4TH OF JULY

ACROSS

1. South American palm berry

5. Chi preceder

8. Tatted cloth

12. *”Knee high in July”?

13. Hole-making tools

14. Sign in (2 words)

15. Discharge

16. Violin’s Renaissance predecessor

17. Nursemaid in India, pl.

18. *On the grill on the 4th?

20. Tropical tuber

21. Propelled like Argo

22. “Fresh Prince of ____-Air”

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26. Yellow ride

30. Not well

31. Heavy lifting injury

34. “Brave New World” drug

35. Feudal estates

37. Storm center

38. Rand McNally book

39. Singer-songwriter Amos

40. Deserving veneration

42. Giant “Master Melvin”

43. Y on Periodic Table

45. Unkind one, slangily

47. Clairvoyant’s gift, acr.

48. “____ under the rug”

50. Cry like a baby

52. *Number of stripes on Old Glory

55. Birch bark vessel

56. Object of Frodo’s obsession

57. Norse war god

59. Cut mission short

60. Fairy tale beginning

61. Tangerine/grapefruit hybrid

62. MTV’s “____’d” (2003-2015)

63. Like Willie Winkie

64. “Team” homophone

DOWN

1. Fighter pilot

2. Toothy groomer

3. Operatic solo

4. Openings

5. Between once and thrice

6. Viva voce

7. Maroon’s home

8. *As opposed to Patriot

9. Lab culture

10. Type of salmon

11. Short for ensign

13. Not sympathetic

14. Potentially allergenic glove material

19. Tubs

22. Farm cry

23. *Number of stars on Old Glory

24. “The Waste Land” poet

25. Heads-up

26. Wedding cake layer

27. 2-dotted mark

28. Stradivari competitor

29. Moisten, as in a turkey

32. 500 sheets

33. *Largest Fourth of July pyrotechnics display loc.

36. *Celebratory combustible

38. Highly skilled

40. Break bread

41. Come into view

44. Even smaller than #7 Down

46. Dined elsewhere (2 words)

48. Use a shoe polish

49. Grimace in pain

50. Hindu Mr.

51. Before long, to Shakespeare

52. Think, arch.

53. Part of a seat

54. World’s longest river

55. Upper limit

58. Jodie Foster’s “____’s Island”

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Celtics raise 18th banner, are NBA champions once again

by Steve Stallone Sports Editor

Monday night, on the anniversary of their last title 16 long years ago, the Boston Celtics were crowned NBA champions once again.

Playing in front of their title-starved fans at rocking TD Garden, the Celtics took control early in Game 5 and pounded the upset-minded Dallas Mavericks 106-88, winning the series 4-1 and capping one of the top seasons in both team and league history with their 18th championship.

The Celtics became the winningest franchise in league history, passing the Los Angeles Lakers (17) for most championships.

Boston’s title-clinching victory in Game 5 was a microcosm of the entire 2023-24 season, a season that was all about team, and never about the talented individuals that made up this special group.

Six players scored at least eight points, with Jayson Tatum dropping 31 points and 11 assists, and NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown adding 21 points to the cause. Off-season acquisition Jrue Holiday was clutch with 15 points and 11 rebounds, Derrick White added 14 points and eight boards, and Al Horford pitched in nine points and nine rebounds as he won his first NBA championship in this, his 17th season, after

playing in 186 career playoff games.

There was no “I” on this team. These Celtics checked their egos at the door from Day 1, brought their lunch pails and hard hats, and went to work. And despite wearing the hat as favorites and the bullseye on their backs all season, they never flinched.

“We didn’t skip any steps,” said White, describing the team’s drive to the title.

They blitzed through the regular season with a 64-18 record, 13 wins more than their nearest competitor. And in the playoffs, the Celtics went 16-3 (7-1 on the road), taking out rivals Miami, Cleveland, Indiana and finally, the Mavericks, to secure the team’s 18th championship and first since Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnet, Ray Allen and the guys in green won it all in 2008.

With most of their key players under contract including star center Kristaps Porzingis these Celtics appear poised for a long run together and perhaps a few more banners for the TD Garden rafters.

ANOTHER LEGEND

PASSES

Last week, former star player and longtime NBA executive Jerry West passed at the age of 86. West played his entire career with the Los Angeles Lakers, a perennial all-star and Hall of Famer who won a title alongside Wilt Chamberlain after finishing a runner-up to Boston for several agonizing seasons.

Puzzle Answers

West was the inspiration for the NBA logo, and was a coach and front office whiz for the Lakers and L.A. Clippers, among other teams.

West’s passing marked the second NBA legend to die in recent weeks, as former NCAA and NBA champion Bill Walton also left us.

STADIUM UPGRADES

SLATED

The Scranton/ Wilkes-Barre RailRiders baseball team and county leaders have announced plans for a $13.5 million renovation to the team’s stadium, PNC Field in Moosic.

Within the next few months, PNC Field will undergo modifications developers say will bring the facility up to code with Major League Baseball’s Professional Development League standards by the time the deadline to do so arrives at the start of next season.

The project is expected to begin immediately following the conclusion of the RailRiders’ home schedule September 15, with a target date for completion set by the start of the 2025 campaign, said Frank Tunis, solicitor of the Lackawanna County Multipurpose Stadium Authority. The authority owns PNC Field and leases it to the

New York Yankees. It will be the latest in a series of major renovations at the ballpark since its construction in the late 1980s. The scheduled upgrades include a 2,500-square-foot weight room, an expanded and modern training room complete with hydrotherapy equipment, a 5,000-square-foot addition to the home clubhouse that will clear room for larger batting cages, women’s locker rooms and a 600 square-foot dining facility.

AROUND THE HORN

Bryson DeChambeau edged Rory McIlroy by one stroke to win the U.S. Open Golf Championship at Pinehurst number 2 over the weekend. It was DeChambeau’s second U.S. Open title, while McIlroy is still seeking his first…The red-hot Philadelphia Phillies, fresh off their two-game performance in London, returned to Philly and pounded the San Diego Padres 9-2 on Monday. At 48-24, the Phils have the best record in the National League and lead the NL East by eight games over Atlanta…Katie Ledecky won the women’s 400-meter freestyle at the U.S. Swimming Trials, securing her fourth Olympic berth. The Paris Games are scheduled to begin July 26.

Get your Journa l-H erald in the mail each week. Or send it to a friend.

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Crestwood’s Babula named WVC D-1 softball all-star

Gianna Adams, who led the Pittston Area girls to the PIAA Class 5A championship game, has been named Wyoming Valley Conference Division 1 softball Player of the Year following a vote of conference coaches.

The Patriots advanced to the state finals before falling to District 7’s Thomas Jefferson 2-1 in eight innings.

Tunkhannock pitcher Mackenzie Hannon was selected the divisional Most Valuable Player.

Among the first team selections was Crestwood

shortstop Allyson Babula, who led the Lady Comets’ attack all season.

Also of note, the 44th annual Robert L. Dolbear Senior Girls All-Star Softball Game, sponsored by the Dallas Kiwanis Club, will be played at 6 p.m. Monday, June 24, at Misericordia University. There will be no rain date.

The 2024 WVC Division 1 first team, and those players chosen honorable mention, are as follows:

FIRST TEAM

Crestwood — Allyson Babula,

shortstop

Dallas — Carolyn Comitz, first base

Hazleton Area — Marissa Hoffman, catcher; Kayla Lagowy, shortstop; Elia Tito, second base; Olivia Williams, outfield

Pittston Area — Gabby Gorzkowski, first base; Lili Hintze, outfield; Tori Stephenson, third base

Tunkhannock — Elaina Kulsicavage, outfield; Lucy Karp, outfield; Emily Patton, shortstop; Erin Van Ness, third base

Wyoming Valley West —

Maddie Austra, catcher; Kyla Hand, outfield

Wilkes-Barre Area — Katie Keating, outfield

HONORABLE MENTION

Dallas — Giovanna Smacchi, Sophia Maier, Emma Eick

Hazleton Area — Nanci Major

Pittston Area — Marina Antal, Sam Herbert

Tunkhannock — Ally Kinney, Addy Waterman

Wilkes-Barre Area — Dainely Franco, Haley Martin

Wyoming Valley West — Rylee Geffert, Isabella Seip, Abby Yenalevitch

A Sunday that McIlroy will never forget

by Ravi Mandapaka

As the sun began to rise over Pinehurst, North Carolina, the 25th anniversary of Payne Stewart’s unforgettable U.S. Open victory was not just a milestone but a poignant tribute. Course superintendent John Jeffreys was emotionally overcome when he placed a custom Payne Stewart flag on the final hole, symbolizing the enduring legacy of one of golf’s most beloved champions.

The air seemed to harden in anticipation of the day’s events, setting the stage for an overwhelming Sunday of golf. The course, known for its relentless difficulty, has tested the mettle of the sport’s greatest players as they faced Pinehurst’s punishing terrain and unforgiving greens.

This year, among the leaders was Rory McIlroy, an internationally revered golfer. Rory’s breakthrough in golf came when he triumphed at

the 2011 tournament held at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland. His remarkable performance set a new standard with the lowest 72-hole score in the championship’s history.

Thirteen years on, I was intent on witnessing Rory McIlroy’s quest for the title, his resolve bolstered by his remarkable streak of 496 consecutive successful putts within three feet. And on this Sunday, the final round seemed destined to add another illustrious chapter to McIlroy’s storied career. Yet, with its twists and turns, golf had its narrative to unfold. By 3 a.m. on Monday in India, where I live and watched the play intently, it was evident that an arduous day lay ahead.

The 16th hole marked the beginning of a devastating downfall for McIlroy. As he stood over that deceptively simple two-foot, six-inch par putt, the air around the green was thick with tension. Every

heartbeat was a drumroll echoing the collective hope and fear of the spectators. McIlroy approached the ball but missed in a cruel twist of fate. The ball veered away just enough to miss its mark, and a gasp rippled through the crowd like a stone cast into still water. That missed putt was more than just a stroke lost; it was the straw that broke the camel’s back, the instant when everything seemed to come undone.

But it was the 18th hole that would etch itself into Rory McIlroy’s soul forever. With every nerve on edge, he faced the moment of truth. The weight of expectation bore down upon him like a ton of bricks, and as he lined up his final shot, the world seemed to hold its breath. The ball rolled agonizingly close to the hole, a hair’s breadth away from redemption before fate cruelly intervened again. It stopped just shy of its destination, a whisker away from victory.

Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau delivered one of golf history’s most remarkable clutch shots. With less than a 2% chance of landing his bunker shot within 4 feet, he stunned everyone by placing it just 3 feet 11 inches from the hole. This wasn’t his only moment of brilliance; his second shot on the 13th hole during day three also stood out as a testament to his skill under pressure. And, in the

end, Bryson edged Rory to win the U.S. Open by a single stroke.

In the immediate aftermath, Rory chose to retreat from the spotlight. From a psychological standpoint, his decision to withdraw is entirely understandable. From a media perspective, it was unforgivable, something that will be remembered for a long time, perhaps tarnishing his otherwise stellar reputation.

The big question now is whether Rory will ever win another Major. If he doesn’t win over the next few years, we’ll wonder if he’ll return to Pinehurst in 2029 when the U.S. Open is played again. If he does, Rory’s return to those hallowed grounds will stand in testimony to his endurance, persistence, and (I dearly hope) ultimate triumph.

Hyderabad, India, resident Ravi Mandapaka is a longtime columnist for The Sports Column. He has written many articles about Olympic sports and the athletes who have competed for and brought glory to his home country. His venture into writing about professional golf illustrates the magnitude of McIlroy’s following globally and how (like Ravi) they are grieving Sunday’s loss.

JourNAl-herAld sPorts

Comets land five on District 2 Lacrosse All-Star Team

Delaware Valley’s Justin Kalitsnik and Scranton Prep’s Marco Rinaldi received top honors, while Crestwood’s Matt Sklarosky and Ethan Zabroski were first team selections to the District 2 Boys Lacrosse All-Star Teams, released late last week.

Kalitsnik and Rinaldi were named Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, respectively, by the district’s coaches.

Kalitsnik was also named to the first team as a face-off specialist, while Rinaldi filled one of the three first team defensive spots.

Sklarosky joined them on the first team defense along with Cameron Taylor of Abington Heights. Zabroski was tabbed as the first team goalie after helping the Comets reach the District 2 2A final and the PIAA Tournament.

Wyoming Seminary’s Jack Herron was chosen to the firstteam attack unit.

Scranton Prep led the way with five first-team selections, and Keith Toolan was named Coach of the Year after the Cavaliers won the WVC regular season title and District 2 Class 2A championship this season.

Crestwood had three second team selections in Ashton

Amend (Offensive Midfield), Brady Davidson (Defensive Midfield) and Logan Rolles (Face-off Specialist).

Wyoming Area’s TJ Kearns made the second team Attack, while Lake-Lehman’s Hayden Evans and Wyoming Seminary’s Hayden Evans both were named second team Defense.

Pocono NASCAR race sponsor promotes PA tourism

The Shapiro Administration is breaking new ground in the motorsports industry, serving as the race entitlement sponsor for the annual NASCAR Cup Series event at Pocono Raceway set for Sunday, July 14.

The 160-lap, 400-mile race will be titled “The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VISITPA” and provide national and international exposure to the state and its new tourism brand through NASCAR’s wide audience and global broadcast platforms.

According to MarketCast data, NASCAR ranks first among all major U.S. sports in fan loyalty to sponsors, including those who consider trying, consciously support and recommend sponsors.

“NASCAR Cup Series races are some of the biggest and best sporting events in the world, and nobody does it better than Pennsylvania,” saidGovernor Josh Shapiro. “Every year, I love coming to ‘The Tricky Triangle’ to watch some of the best drivers and crews in the world navigate those three turns. Here in the Commonwealth, we have it all –from top tier sports and events, award-winning restaurants, incredible hikes and state parks, and the most important historic sites in the country that tell the story of our shared history. This year, Pennsylvania

tourism is taking the driver’s seat at the Pocono Raceway.”

“Having the opportunity to shine a light on tourism in Pennsylvania while helping Governor Shapiro, Secretary Siger and the entire DCED team launch a new brand is a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity for our team,” said Pocono Raceway President Ben May. “Sixty percent of our fans and partners travel to Pennsylvania from out of state so being able to showcase the Pocono Mountains and launch ‘The Great American Getaway’ is something you aren’t often afforded the privilege of doing. We can’t wait to show off the Commonwealth and continue driving tourism for this great state of ours.”

The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VISITPA will be televised live on the USA Network, along with live radio broadcasts on SiriusXM and MRN, beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET. The race also will be broadcast in more than 29 languages across 195 countries through NASCAR’s international television partners.

Tourism is a key priority within the Governor’s economic development strategy. A new report unveiled by the Pennsylvania Tourism Office in March shows Pennsylvania’s tourism industry generated $76.7 billion in economic impact, supported 486,871 jobs,

contributed $4.7 billion in state and local taxes, and welcomed 192.4 million visitors in 2022. Visitor spending – which supports jobs, income, and business sales – generated $9.6 billion in government revenues. Overnight visitor spending increased by $4.8 billion, with more than 66 million trips resulting in $28 billion in spending.

The NASCAR Cup Series race weekend also is an economic engine for the state with an annual impact of $75 to $100 million.

Recently the Shapiro Administration unveiled Pennsylvania’s new state tourism brand and summer travel marketing campaign to encourage more people to travel across and visit the Commonwealth – Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway. Pennsylvania is a premier weekend getaway destination within close driving proximity to major hubs along the East Coast, including New York City, Baltimore, and Washington DC. Pennsylvania’s main streets and small towns, world class restaurants and bars, renowned historical sites, thrilling outdoor recreation, and top tier events and sports can be experienced in a single weekend by nearly 72 million people who live within a four-hour drive of thousands of getaways and experiences.

The Great American Getaway

400 presented by VISITPA is the featured race of the July 12-14 NASCAR tripleheader weekend at Pocono Raceway. The NASCAR Cup Series weekend annually attracts a strong balance of visitors and Pennsylvania residents, with 60 percent coming from out of state. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series CRC Brakleen 175 will be held Friday, July 12 (5:30 p.m.), and the NASCAR Xfinity Series Explore the Pocono Mountains 225 on Saturday, July 13 (3 p.m.). For tickets and more information, please visit www. poconoraceway.com.

Lehigh Gorge Notary

Liz Berger has been providing Tag & Title, DCNR, Boat and Fish Commission, and general Notary services in White Haven for over 30 years. As the local community Notary Public with years of experience, there is no question she can’t answer. Find her at Lehigh Gorge Campground, 4585 State Street in East Side, or under the More tab at: lehighgorgecampground.com