The Journal-Herald, December 24, 2020 by canwinjournal

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 • Volume 41 – No. 21

SINGLE COPY– 75¢ (USPS 277440)

CONTINUING: THE WHITE HAVEN JOURNAL ESTABLISHED 1879–142nd YEAR, NO. 4

CONTINUING: THE WEATHERLY HERALD ESTABLISHED 1880–141st YEAR, NO. 30

Zane Writer returns to WH Borough Council by Ruth Isenberg

run as a write-in candidate in 2019, had submitted a letter of The first order of business interest before the November at the December 21 meeting of meeting. Council agreed to White Haven Borough Council hold up on the appointmet so was the appointment of Zane other interested people would Writer to the empty seat on have a chance to submit applicouncil, created by the Nocations. vember resignation of Rose Following his appointment Diel. Writer, who had served at the December meeting, on council before, and had Writer handed in a letter of

resignation from the Zoning Hearing Board. He will serve until the end of 2021, and will have to seek re-election in the upcoming primary if he wants to continue on council. Another carry-over from the November meeting was the opening of bids for former Kiel property at 507 Berwick Street. One bid had been

WINTER WHITE: The Francis Walter Dam, and all of Northeast PA, took on a special winter beauty as a result of last week’s snowstorm. JH: Seth Isenberg

received as of the November meeting, so council voted to re-advertise for bids to be awarded in December. The bid from NJS LLC was the only one received in the offices of

solicitor Doald Karpowich. The bid in the amount of $4,500 was accompanied by a check for $450, the required 10% bond, Tom Szoke is the See WH COUNCIL, page 5

First place winner in the Heritage Hill Senior Living Community holiday tree decorating contest was the Gnome Tree, decorated by MJ Montefour, RN, Resident Care Director at Heritage Hill. Photo courtesy Heritage Hill

PAGE 2 — THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

THE JOURNAL-HERALD (USPS 277-440) Published weekly at 211 Main Street, White Haven, PA 18661 Telephone (570) 215-0204

Subscription Price—$40 per year in Luzerne & Carbon Counties, Pennsylvania, payable in advance. $45 per year elsewhere, payable in advance. Periodicals postage paid at White Haven, PA 18661. POSTMASTER, send address change to:

THE JOURNAL-HERALD 211 Main Street, White Haven, PA 18661 (JAY E. HOLDER, Co-Publisher 1954-1997; CLARA HOLDER, Co-Publisher 1954-2014) Seth Isenberg, Advertising Sales Ruth Isenberg, Editor Steve Stallone, Sports Editor Member, White Haven Chamber of Commerce Carbon County Chamber of Commerce Pocono Mountains Chamber of Commerce White Haven Economic Development Association

THE JOURNAL-HERALD is printed with U.S. made soy inks on part-recycled newsprint.

Editorial Peace on earth by Ruth Isenberg

From the Archives

From The Weatherly Herald December 24, 1970 James P. Faust and Cletus Milan, Publishers Merry Christmas This issue had 6 pages of Christmas ads and 6 of news. A story penned by Wilson Barto told of Bill McCluskey’s basement layout of model trains. Two photos are with the story, including one of a custom replica of the Weatherly Lehigh Valley Railroad Station made by Neil Lettiere, of town. The 20’ by 12’ multi-level O-Gauge layout is extensive, and big enough to run four trains at once. Barto writes that Bill was given his first Lionel train in 1936, and began collecting seriously in 1965. His collection now spans four decades of working trains and toys.

The other front page photo is of the fire-damaged Allen Gerhard house on 6th St. This year’s Christmas editorial is not coming easily. Most years, the Christmas season represents a break in the pressures from an early morning blaze of daily life. A sense of goodwill toward all is the over-riding, if that was first called in at just after 4 a.m. The home is badly temporary, mindset of most people. damaged and will have to be Christmas 2020 feels different. Perhaps it’s the threat of razed. The Gerhards and their COVID-19, despite the gift of two vaccines that will be availtwo children lost all their posable to most of the population by the middle of 2021. Maybe sessions. Local residents have it’s sadness over the losses we’ve all experienced as a result of come to the aid of the Gerthe virus, losses of health, losses of life, losses of income. And hards with donations of needpossibly it’s the continuing rancor over politics. Although the ed items and cash. The family presidential election is over, it isn’t finished for a fairly large will be staying with brotherchunk of the population that believes the results are tainted. in-law Alburtis Witner II for Add to that the continuing attention to the run-off election in now. Georgia that will determine the majority party in the Senate, and you have news cycle that’s anything but peace-inducing. The Herald printed the full Here’s some holiday advice. Tune out of Twitter and details of the 1971 Weatherly Facebook for the next few days, unless it’s to wish Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to friends and relatives. Borough budget, tentatively adopted at the December 14 Give yourself the gift of peace, and refuse meeting. to fret about things you have no control over. There’s still a lot of good to enjoy, There is a photo of Weathera lot of love to share. Peace on earth starts inside ly’s Girl Scout units gathered with each one of us. before the large pine tree at the Veterans Memorial Plaza,

singing Christmas carols before the tree lighting. 100 year-old Ephraim Smith, a guest at the Carbon County Home, was treated to a birthday celebration. A photo shows Smith regaling Carbon County Commissioners James Walker and Albert U. Koch with railroaders stories. Smith was a brakeman on the Lehigh Valley Railroad.

is versus Slatington on Dec. 28. League games begin on January 3. The Junior High Varsity lost a close game to Pocono Mountain 47 to 49, a comeback by the locals falling just a basket short.

From The Sidelines, by Don Garber who wished all the readers a Merry Christmas. The Biddy Basketball league rosters are set, with 56 youngsters listed for six teams. Games will start either JanuPrice’s Shoe Store in Haary 3 or 10. zleton advertised Totes “easyArchery season runs Decemto-put-on s.t.r.e.t.c.h. rubbers ber 26 to January 16 – the last (that) have no lefts or rights of the Penna. whitetail seasons. to confuse.” Kids sizes $2.50. Praise to those who have Available in bright red, or black. turned out to cheer the Junior High basketball games. The Weatherly Wreckers next home basketball game See ARCHIVES, page 3

THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 — PAGE 3

Archives… Continued from page 2

Public Notices PUBLIC NOTICE

The Dennison Township Supervisors will hold a Reorganization Meeting on January 4, 2021 at 6:00 PM in the Dennison Township Municipal Building. The Regular Monthly Meeting will be held immediately following the Reorganization Meeting. Kathleen Stortz Secretary

LEGAL NOTICE

IN RE: ESTATE OF HENRY J. ACKERMAN, a/k/a HENRY ACKERMAN, Deceased, late of the Township of Dennison, County of Luzerne and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Notice is herby given that Letters of Administration have been granted in the Estate of Henry J. Ackerman, a/k/a Henry Ackerman, who died on the 19th day of December, 2019. All persons having claims against the estate are requested to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to the Administrator, Gloria Ackerman, c/o Lisa Fisher, 247 Foster Avenue, Freeland, PA 18224, or her attorney: CYNTHIA S. YURCHAK, ESQUIRE 121 Carbon Street Post Office Box 49 Weatherly PA 18255 12/24

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Dennison Township Board of Auditors will hold their Reorganization Meeting on January 5, 2021 at 7:00 PM in the Dennison Township Municipal Building. Kathleen Stortz Secretary

LEGAL NOTICE

IN RE: ESTATE OF GREGORY D. HUDOCK, a/k/a GREGORY DAVID HUDOCK, a/k/a GREGORY HUDOCK, Deceased, late of the Borough of White Haven, County of Luzerne and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Notice is herby given that Letters of Administration have been granted in the Estate of Gregory D. Hudock, a/k/a Gregory David Hudock, a/k/a Gregory Hudock, who died on the 18th day of July, 2020. All persons having claims against the estate are requested to make known the same, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment without delay to the Administrators Doreen Cannon, 1124 Foster Avenue, White Haven PA, 18661, or Kelsey Hudock, 11 Roosevelt Street, Apt. 1, West Hazleton, PA 18202, or their attorney: CYNTHIA S. YURCHAK, ESQUIRE 121 Carbon Street Post Office Box 49 Weatherly PA 18255

Atty. Cindy Yurchak

12/31

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570-427-9817 121 Carbon St., Weatherly

Among the stores who bought ads were George’s of Beaver Meadows, Joseph Baranko Agency of McAdoo, Coney Island Restaurant of Hazleton, Rosebud’s Beauty Salon, MITY FINE Bakery of Lansford, Petrole Motors of Lehighton, Lazo’s Café, Karn’s Movers of Hazleton, Sharp’s Bakery of Freeland, Gimbi’s Gas Station, Y&W General Auto Repairs, Lamont’s Pharmacy, Baran’s Market of Beaver Meadows, Keller’s Floor & Wall Covering, Bill’s Market, and Paul Ratazak councilman for the 4th ward. From The Journal-Herald December 20, 1990 Clara and Jay Holder, Publishers The photo in this week’s edition is of Raynor Leiby’s Belgian draft horses and his trolley, which the horses will pull through Weatherly this Saturday evening. Santa will be along for the ride. The old-time trolley is the first project of the Weatherly Area Republican Club.

a spare spreader). Santa Claus turned up at this point, and distributed candy bars to all. A Christmas program is part of the morning worship this week at Salem United Church of Christ. Children in the Kindergarten, nursery and primary groups will sing three songs, then children in grades 3 to 6 will present a play, then sing Christmas carols. The combined choir of Weatherly will present “Carol of Christmas” by John W. Peterson at the Centenary United Methodist Church Sunday afternoon. The cantata is filled with carols we all know and love. This year’s cantata will also feature a live nativity. For a Christmas gift, Johnson TV advertises a 5-Disc Compact Disc Player with remote control – $199.95. Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church will host its Christmas Pageant this Sunday at 10:30 a.m., and a candlelight communion Christmas eve at 7:30 and 10:30 p.m.

At Gyp’s, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles toy chest $16.99, or a Barbie Water Park set for Two other photos atop the page are of kids meeting Santa $19.99. at the White Haven Fire ComFor $35 per person, the New pany’s Santa visit. Year’s Eve party package at the White Haven Borough coun- Mountain Laurel Resort incil met last week, and finished cluded dancing, a party band, a New Year’s eve toast, party some business for the year. favors and hors d’oeuvres, then Among the agenda items was a breakfast buffet. Dinner can an invitation from the Lower be added at A Touch of Vanilla, Luzerne County Solid Waste and so can an overnight stay. Management Authority for someone to fill a board seat. Cloverdale Farms has caLinda Kistler volunteered to pons for sale. do so, with Margaret Reilly volunteering to be an alEight outstanding former ternate. Another item had coaches and players will be council members agreeing to inducted into the Weatherly advertise the sale of a street Area High School Hall of Fame sweeper, a street roller, and on December 29. They will be a 1979 Chevrolet truck with a Coaches Joseph Wilema and snowplow and spreader (plus

Jack “Red” Rothacker, and players Pete Garber, Ron Duser, Paul West, Carl Duser, Frank Romano and John Andresky. Ed Gower’s WHASA basketball column this week highlighted a Saturday game where the EMCEE team led from the start, keeping the Lions at bay for a 33-21 win. Having won on Saturday, EMCEE looked to take down undefeated Suitch Insurance on Sunday. It was not to be, as Guy Bove led a balanced offense with 21 points and a Suitch win, 30-21. In the other Sunday game, Lehman Funeral Home earned their first win of the season defeated the Ugly Mug team. Charles Medwetz’s 18 points led Lehman’s scoring.

Marty Mrozinski’s column celebrated the Lady Wrecker’s JV basketball team’s first win at Pleasant Valley 30-11, led by Kelly Mrozinski’s 8 points. Tamaqua’s Blue Raiders came to Weatherly last Tuesday for a boys non-league game. The hosts pulled out to a nice lead, only to have Tamaqua’s boys claw back to within 3 before the buzzer sounded – 75-72. The JV boys made it a sweep that night, winning 63-50. The boys made it two sweeps in a row, defeating Nativity 89-66 in Pottsville. The JVs followed that up with their second win, 69-58. The Weatherly Youth Basketball League Storks remain undefeated with a 24-21 win, led by Erin Brady’s 11 points. In Biddy Basketball, Amy Sandt had two outstanding games for Gerhard’s this past weekend, leading her team with 22 points. Salena Mrozinski matched the team total of the Rotary’s offense, supporting Sandt with 10 (47-10). That Sunday, Sandt again was an offensive dynamo, with 29 points – the opponents only put up 20. Mrozinski scored 8 points in support (41-20).

PAGE 4 — THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Obituaries SANDRA LEE HENNING Sandra Lee Henning, 75, lifelong member. At home she a lifelong resident of White could always be found in the Haven, passed away on Thurs- kitchen, cooking or baking for day, Deher family. cember 17, In addition to her parents, 2020 at the she was preceded in death by Mountain her loving husband, RichTop Health- ard H. Henning in 2016. care and She is survived by children: RehabilitaWendy Howton (Matthew) tion Center, of Mountain Top, Richard T. Mountain Henning (Kathy) of WashTop. burn, Missouri, William HenBorn ning (Jennifer) of Danville, in Hazleand Sarah Berkey of Aston; ton, she was the daughter of her brother, Howard McClusHoward and Georgia Sterner key (Freddie). She will be McCluskey. She was a gradudeeply missed by her grandate of Weatherly High School children, Alexandra (Adam), and worked as a beautician Brian, Zachary, Elizabeth, and child caregiver. She was Elijah, and Xavier; and several well known for helping others nieces and nephews. and working at the communiPrivate family funeral serty lunch at St. Paul’s Luthervice was conducted on Deceman Church in White Haven, ber 21 from Lehman Family where she was a devoted Funeral Service, White Haven with interment in Laurel Cemetery, White Haven. A Merry Christmas celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Family John A. Dias requests memorial donations be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in White Haven in lieu of flowers. For additional information, visit www.LehmanFuneralHome.com

Every day without you, since you had to go Is like summer without sunshine, and Christmas without snow. We wish that we could talk to you There’s so much that we would say Life has changed so very much since you went away. We’ll always feel you close to us, and though you’re far from sight We’ll search for you among the stars That shine on Christmas night.

ELIZABETH SHUPP her 3 children, 6 grandchilElizabeth “Lib” Shupp dren, and 12 great grandchilpassed away on Sunday, dren along with a large family December of 9 siblings, and numerous 20, 2020 nieces and nephews. Any famat Smith Health Care ily get-together brought her great joy. Her soft voice and in Mounpeaceful, loving, kind, nurtain Top, at turing manner will be missed. the age of She was truly a peacemaker in 93. She was the family. born NoSurviving are a son Les vember 10, 1927, the daughter Shupp (Sally); daughter Jeanof Carlos and Esther Coneie Deecki (Bob) and daughterty Bell. Her husband, Russ preceded her in death in 1987, in-law Linda. Preceding her in death was her son, Gary. Also after a 41 year marriage. Lib was a member of Christ surviving are sisters Ann Kline Hackman and Edna Long; United Methodist Church brother Richard Bell (Diin Mountaintop for over 66 years; and was active in many ane). Preceding her in death were brothers and sisters: activities: UMW, Administrative Council, Confirmation Edwin, Connie, Margaret, RoClasses, Sunday School, Quilt- land, Carlos and Robert. She ing Circle, and Choir Member. is also survived by grand and great grandchildren, and nuShe was involved in many merous nieces and nephews. church dinners and other Thank you to the staff of fundraisers. Prior to retirement, she sold Smith Health Care where she resided for the past 7 years. Avon and was employed by A Private Family CelebraEberhard Faber Pencil Corporation in Mountain Top for tion of Life service will be held from the Lehman Fammany years. ily Funeral Service, Inc. 403 Lib loved her church and Berwick St. White Haven with had a strong faith. She conquered many illnesses and ad- Reverend J. B. Bohanan officiating. Interment will follow versities throughout her life. She loved spending time with in Laurel Cemetery, White Haven. Private Immediate Family visitation will be held until time of service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Smith Health Care, 453 S. Main Road, White Haven, PA Mountain Top or to Christ PATRICK M. LEHMAN, PRESIDENT United Methodist Church, S. RUSSELL C. TETER, JR., SUPERVISOR Main Road, Mountaintop. Serving White Haven, Weatherly and surrounding communities Visit www.LehmanFuneralHome.com for additional Branch of Lehman Family Funeral Service, Inc. information.

Lehman Family Funeral Service, Inc. www.LehmanFuneralHome.com (570) 443-9816

Hospitality & restaurant workers fund established The United Way of Greater Hazleton has introduced its newly established Greater Hazleton Area Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund. The goal is to financially support hospitality and restaurant employees in the Greater Hazleton area who are out of work due to Pennsylvania’s new COVID-19 restrictions, which took effect December 12. The United Way of Greater Hazleton made a $5,000 kickstart donation toward the fund. To date, United Way has been joined by the First Federal Charitable Foundation, Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce, Can DO, PPL Utilities, an anonymous contributor, the Luzerne County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Mayor Cusat’s Hazleton Revitalization Fund, Dr. and Mrs. David Sosar, Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Stasko, Cheryl Prudhomme, and Mr. and Mrs. John Patton. Nearly $18,000 has been raised to date. “For the past ten months, hospitality and restaurant workers have increased their health and safety protocols while navigating the uncertainty of employment and the stressors of everyday living in a pandemic,” said United Way President & CEO Patrick Ward. “These individuals continue to show up. They smile while their hearts break. They offer discounts on their most prized dishes just to put bread on their own plates. Now, they need our help more than ever.” One hundred percent of all See FUND, page 5

THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 — PAGE 5

No AMVETS Kidder Supervisors approve no tax increase budget engineering work. Shiffer Bitument for its pumping station approved unanimously. by Seth Isenberg minous was paid $2,250 for the site, north of the interstate. Township manager Suzanne this month leaf pickup. FrontLine Graphix The township’s roads were December’s Kidder TownBrooks offered extra congratuAMVETS Post 253 of White Haven is cancelling the Sunday, January 3, meeting due to the holiday and the VFW COVID-19 closure. Next meeting will be Sunday, February 7. Happy holidays to all members.

ship supervisors meeting unanimously approved the 2021 budget, with no township tax increase. The budget is just shy of $2 million. Their meeting, held one day after the heavy snowfall from this winter’s first Nor’easter, made quick work of the rest of the business. The new 4WD pickup truck for the police department will arrive on January Continued from page 4 4. Supervisors voted to approve the paperwork from Mauch donations will be utilized in the form of direct mini-grants Chunk Trust for the two-year lease that buys the truck, with to workers. an interest rate of 1.9%. Hospitality and restaurant Chief of Police Matthew employees, who live or work, Kuzma’s new two-year conin the Greater Hazleton area tract received unanimous can contact the United Way approval. for this financial assistance. Bills of $470,471 were apThe application requires basic demographic information and a proved. Barletta Materials received $316,537 of that for most recent paystub to deterthis year’s road paving project. mine income eligibility and Emergency services payments verify recent employment. Aptotaled $50,923. The monthly plications will be approved on garbage hauler bill was $29,920. a first-come, first-served basis and mini-grants of $200 will be Highmark Blue Shield was paid issued until funds are depleted. $19,349 for health insurance, and $5,084 went to pay for Applicants may obtain the form from unitedwayhazleton. various other insurances. ARRO Consulting billed $2,963 for org and email it to: unitedwayhelp18201@gmail.com. The applicants will be reviewed and grants awarded on a first come, first served basis. Continued from page 1 Applications will be accepted starting December 28. managing party for NJS LLC. In order to help as many Council member Harvey people as possible, contribuMorrison asked if the bortions to the Greater Hazleton Area Hospitality & Restaurant ough had gotten an appraisal. Worker Relief Fund are great- Weichert Real Estate provided a figure of $4,560, using ly appreciated. Donors may comparables of vacant lots at mail contributions to UnitSunshine Drive and Lee Road, ed Way of Greater Hazleton, both in the $4,000 range. 134 South Wyoming Street, Council unanimously apHazleton, PA 18201 and inproved the bid. The agreement clude “Hospitality & Restaurant Work Relief Fund” in the will specify that the lot must memo. Donations may also be be built on within one year. Negotiations for White Hamade online at www.united ven Borough Police to provide wayhazleton.org.

Fund…

WHCouncil

billed $1,630 for preparing the new police vehicle’s graphics. $1,490 went into pensions. Taxes to the IRS were $15,227, and to PA $1,900. $3,934 went to Building Inspection Underwriters. Blue Ridge Real Estate Company’s Lakeshore development, near Big Boulder, received a year’s extension for final plan review. The Penn East gas pipeline received a year’s extension for the land develop-

in very good shape after the big snowfall on Wednesday. Supervisors praised the obvious hard work that was done. Code enforcement office Noel Torres also received praise for his work. Torres was on the call. He has been visible, and his efforts to deter violations are working. Supervisor Bruce Berger’s idea to send a thank you message to all township employees and volunteers was

lations to the class of firefighters from the Lake Harmony Fire Company who recently earned their FF1 certificates. The meeting wrapped up with chairman Thomas Bradley joining fellow supervisors, manager Brooks and chief of police Kuzma in wishing all a Happy Holiday and Safe New Year. The next meeting will be the annual reorganization meeting, to be held at 6:30 p.m. on January 4, via Zoom.

Windmills application denied by Packer ZHB by Seth Isenberg

The application from Broad Mountain Power Company to erect a windmill farm atop Broad Mountain in Packer Township was denied Tuesday, December 22, by a unanimous vote of the Packer Township Zoning Hearing Board. Variances

applied for by Broad Mountain Power were also denied. Zoning Hearing Board vice-chairwoman Barbara Genetti read a statement listing the board’s concerns to an audience of the board, five attorneys, press members, and about 25 connections of citizens via Zoom or by phone. The board did not

believe all of the testimony by the experts. The big concerns were the likelihood that the turbines would emit sounds louder than the rules allow, and that the wind farm would reduce property values. A written decision spelling out the board’s reasoning will be available within 30 days.

coverage in Foster Township beginning February 1 have been successful. Foster Township will pay $105,000 per year for 60 hours of coverage a month, to be paid monthly. Morrison voted against advertising an ordinance authorizing White Haven Police to provide coverage. Morrison also voted against hiring three additional parttime police officers, and against the general fund budget adoption, the tax ordinance, and the salary resolution for 2021. Tax collector Kathy Oross turned over $696.71 in delinquent tax payments, and a real

estate transfer check totaling $2907.09 for November. EMA Coordinator Chris Zweibel is working on ordering n95 masks for all emergency responders in White Haven, Penn Lake and Dennison Township. In his report, Mayor Fred Meier asked about the meeting that was supposed to be held with Standard Farms; solicitor Sean Logsdon said it had to be postponed due to illness. The mayor also said that the honor roll lighting was not working; public works supervisor Joe Wychock said he would check out the timer, as the lights had been on that

morning. The mayor said he had some bulbs that might work if needed. Wychock expressed appreciation for help from the police chief for repairs made to the Bobcat during the snow storm. He is continuing to widen cleared areas in advance of the predicted heavy rains. Present were council members Charlie Best, John Klem, Bob Lamson, Morrison, Writer and John Zugarek; Mike D’Angelo was not on the Zoom call. The next meeting is schedule for 7 p.m. on Monday, January 25.

PAGE 6 — THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Seth’s Sightings Snow. Our area received upwards of a foot and a half of snow from the blizzard of 2020, a nor’easter that covered our area thick. It’s been a while since our area received such a heavy covering, but this used to be normal back in the days… In both White Haven and Weatherly, we were fortunate that an army of people with snowblowers were out. I thank the neighbors who helped us by clearing paths on sidewalks. That blower-cleared path made it much easier to shovel where I needed to, halving the amount of grunt work. As the days have gone by since the storm, I had been able to tunnel out to the road and also make sure that there was enough sidewalk exposed to let the sun get it warm and start a melt. This Thursday is supposed to have rain, that will perhaps wash most of this snow away. When the snow was deep, our dogs made a path up the back sidewalk — compacting the snow. This made getting that sidewalk exposed more of a mining effort. Over two days I chopped my way through. The dogs thought this was a great treat. In a lot of ways, they are right. A little bit of the little boy I was quietly voiced awe and urged me to do things like throw snowballs and build snow forts. Our German Shorthair Pointer likes having snowballs tossed to him. He opens his mouth wide and takes them in, and chews then up. He’d probably do it for hours if I had the time to continually toss. About the rest of our week, I was in front of my computer for Zoom meetings Thursday, Friday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. We also watched a live band performance on our computer on Sunday afternoon.

The plusses are that there’s less driving in the dark — or in the case of Thursday, after a snowstorm. The minuses are that there’s little personal interaction. Watching the show was not as satisfying as seeing the band perform at the Mauch Chunk Opera House. Snow certainly enhances the holiday light displays — making our area brighter from the reflected light. Penn State won its final game of this season. The players then voted to not accept any invitations to play again, preferring to spend the holidays with their families. It was a very 2020 decision. Bowl games have gotten cancelled, other teams have opted out. This will be an odd bowl season. Of note though, is the noise Clemson and Notre Dame coaches have made about wanting to play their bowl games in front of fans, and player’s families. Some states have mandated no fans, particularly California, and the Rose Bowl hosts a playoff game, for now. Here’s to the fans in the stands — and to the families… hold the line so your teams can play a real playoff game in front of real fans. In the pros, the Patriots, Eagles, Giants and Steelers all lost. Of these, the Steelers are going to compete for the Super Bowl, unless they keep finding ways to lose. The Eagles at least were exciting in their loss. Not so the Pats or Giants, whose games were dull and fans don’t watch. In college basketball, there’s an interesting record getting set this year — all time wins for a coach. Stanford’s coach Tara vanDerveer is soon to have over 1,100 wins, with UConn’s coach Geno Auriemma four wins behind. These two amaz-

by Seth Isenberg

ing coaches are both destined for the Hall of Fame. It will be fun to keep tabs on how each of their teams do this year. Both look great, so watch the win totals climb. In under a month, the National Hockey League will begin its season. College hockey is up and going. The AHL is still committed to opening February 5.

The NHL has not decided on whether its Canadian teams will remain in Canada to play, due to COVID rules that make border crossings near impossible. There is an idea that Canadian teams will move to the U.S. to start the season. They have three weeks to have their answers for the start of the season. As an aside, the disease may mean more

outdoor games, which make for added fun. Sightings have been limited to looking for holiday displays. We cut through Lehighton on our way to the Aldi’s there, and found a park-full of decorated trees, and a bunch of nicely decorated homes. Merry Christmas to all of my readers.

Veterans Corner Commentary by John Kearns, USCG Ret., chiefkearns@gmail.com VA UPDATE ON COVID-19 FOR VETERANS The initial supply of the vaccine is now arriving but is limited. Working with the CDC and other federal partners, the VA developed a phased plan to benefit the most people. The initial limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine will be available for health care personnel. Under this phased plan as follows: Phase One The VA will begin vaccinating health care personnel – as they are essential in continuing to care for patients throughout the pandemic. At the same time, VA will vaccinate Veteran inpatients in Community Living Centers and spinal cord injury and disorder centers. Phase Two The VA will vaccinate additional veterans receiving care from VA at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 after health care personnel have been offered the vaccine. Phase Three The VA will offer the vaccine to all veterans receiving care at VA as well as VA employees who want to be vaccinated. The VA will contact veterans for vaccine appointments. It is not required to call the VA to make an appointment. It is important to understand that many veterans will not be able

to get the vaccine during this initial rollout when supply is limited. To reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19, veterans should not come into a VA facility seeking the vaccine. Care teams will contact veterans directly when a vaccine is available, based on each veteran’s risk factors. Additionally, at this time, veterans cannot get a COVID-19 vaccine in the community through VA’s Community Care Network like flu shots. As more vaccine becomes available, the VA will determine whether it can make vaccines available in the community. For more information, visit: Veteran-facing COVID-19 vaccine website, and CDC COVID-19 vaccine website. Biden’s VA Secretary Choice: Joseph Biden’s choice of Denis McDonough, a longtime Washington, D.C. insider with no personal military experience, to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs is a surprise. This is getting a mixed reaction, especially from veterans organizations and sparking pushback. McDonough is a 51 year-old alumnus of the Obama White House who never served in the military. He lacks any background in health care

administration — an important qualification. Christmas 1896 “Stars and Stripes Forever.” John Philip Sousa grew up during the Civil War. He was a talented musician, and he became a long-time director of the U.S. Marine Band. Known as the “March King,” he was a rock star of his time, eventually starting his own band in 1892. On Christmas Day 1896, while crossing the Atlantic on his way home from a European vacation, Sousa’s legacy came to him. He said the notes for “Stars and Stripes Forever” were born out of homesickness and fond memories of his time as the Marine Band’s leader. The iconic song officially became America’s national march in 1987. So, this holiday season, while you are enjoying leave, family, friends and feasts, think of some of your fellow troops, past and present, who had to forgo their holidays for the greater good of the country. While you are at it, you might even want to put on “Stars and Stripes Forever” in their honor. Have a great holiday season, everybody!

THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 — PAGE 7

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PAGE 8 — THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

6th Grade Honor Roll Kevin Seyer, Principal, has announced the following sixth grade students have achieved Principal’s Honors at Fairview Elementary School for the 1st Quarter of the 2020-2021 school year. The Crestwood School District Elementary Honor Roll (6th Grade) reflects that the student has attained an A in all courses offered. Inclusive are English Language Arts, Math, Social Studies and Science. Sophia Biscotti, Mia Franks, Jacqueline Gallagher, Catherine Green, Stella Janosczyk, Allen Seifert, Celia Stahlnecker, and Anna Zaroda.

WASD music teachers take holiday concert online Holiday concerts have always been highly anticipated highlights of the holiday season in the Weatherly Area School District. This year has been difficult for music education. As music teacher Daniel Derflinger notes, some schools have not been allowed to do any form of in-person music, while others have been able to

continue in an almost normal way. Weatherly has landed somewhere in the middle, with a small number of students coming out (or joining Zoom) for band rehearsals over the last couple of months. Concerts have been highly discouraged since the spring, and with this in mind, Derflinger and his colleague,

Amanda Derr, decided to put together a Virtual Concert this year. We had nine students ranging from grades 5-12 and an alumna of the school submit recordings to be included in this concert. To access the concert, visit http://bit.ly/wasdvirtualcon cert or the link on our website, pocononewspapers.com.

“This has been a tough year, and I know everyone could use a lift to their spirits,” Deflinger says. “Music plays an extremely important role in the holidays, and we want to share what our school has done with others!”

Shop hand-crafted items for holiday giving at

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Corner of Main & Berwick Streets, White Haven Crafters, Vendors—Interested in a table? Call Linda Miller at LK Hair Shop, 570-582-9934

THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 — PAGE 9

Virtual candlelighting at WH Presbyterian The Presbyterian Church of White Haven will be hosting an online candlelight service December 24 at 7 p.m. The service will feature the telling of the birth of Jesus through

scripture and will include a virtual candle lighting. Those attending are asked to have their own candles on hand to participate in this part of the service.

To access the Zoom service, message the church’s Facebook page or call 570-4437293 with call back information.

Invitation to virtual Christmas Eve service

Join members of the Weath- an Churches online on Thurserly and Freeland Presbyteriday, December 24, at 7 p.m.

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to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The service will feature a meditation on “Light candles this Christmas.” Lynea Reiner, Shirley Noonan, Connie Rayno, Mary Scheib, Craig Young, and others will offer special music. Scriptures of the season will be shared. Bring your own candle(s) to share in this sacred celebration To access the service via Zoom, send an e-mail to gglenrh@gmail.com or call Rev. Glen R. Hueholt at (239) 672-2706 for more informaNativity scene at the miniature golf course at Split tion. Rock was taken following the snowstorm on December 17. The snow, afternoon light and shadows providJH: Ruth Isenberg ed the perfect setting.

PAGE 10 — THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

From our ﬂock to yours, go our best wishes for a picture perfect season ﬁlled with lots of love, laughter, joy and serenity. We thank you for your friendship and support this year.

THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 — PAGE 11

LVHN breaks ground to build hospital in Carbon County Earth-moving equipment arrived on site recently and on December 22 Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) conducted a virtual groundbreaking announcement to begin construction of a new hospital along Blakeslee Blvd. (Route 443) in Mahoning Township, Carbon County. The new hospital, announced in 2019, will be called Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)−Carbon and is being built on an open property purchased by the health network cattycorner to the Walmart Superstore on Blakeslee Blvd. “Our health care team is humbled to have the opportunity to heal, comfort and care for the wonderful people of Carbon County,” said Brian Nester, DO, MBA, FACOEP, LVHN’s President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Nester said Lehigh Valley Hospital–Carbon will cover over 100 thousand-squarefeet and feature 18 private inpatient beds, a 12-bay emergency department, two operating rooms, two procedure rooms and four observation rooms with plans to expand in the future. The hospital will

also have a helipad to transport critical patients as needed. A medical office building also is planned as part of the project. Nester said to provide the best care possible to the Carbon County community, the hospital will feature telemedicine services from Lehigh Valley Heart Institute, Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute and Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence. Terrence Purcell, LVHN’s Vice President for Market Development and a native of Mahanoy City, will serve as President of Lehigh Valley Hospital−Carbon. “Lehigh Valley Hospital– Carbon is especially important to me,” Purcell said. “I’m truly excited about the level of care we are going to provide the community because of this new hospital.” Purcell said the new hospital will allow LVHN to further expand services beyond the care it has delivered the area for many years and with greater access. He said some of the services that will be provided at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Carbon include inpatient care, inpatient and

outpatient surgery, rehabilitation, diagnostic cardiology, and radiology including MRI, CT and ultrasound. “We will also have an infusion center and around-theclock care at our emergency department,” Purcell said. Purcell also said during the virtual presentation that Carbon County has some outstanding independent physicians and that LVHN looks forward to working with them to provide their patients with the best possible care. The hospital is expected to open in the spring of 2022. Lehigh Valley Health Network includes eight hospital campuses, three in Allentown, one in Bethlehem, one in East Stroudsburg, one in Hazleton and two in Pottsville; Coordinated Health, which includes

two hospital campuses, nearly two dozen multispecialty locations including ambulatory surgery centers and orthopedic injury centers in northeastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey; 26 health centers; numerous primary and specialty care physician practices; 20 ExpressCARE locations including the area’s only Children’s ExpressCARE; pharmacy, imaging, home health, rehabilitation and lab services; and preferred provider services through Valley Preferred. Specialty care includes: trauma care for adults and children, burn care at the Regional Burn Center; kidney and pancreas transplants; perinatal/neonatal, cardiac, cancer, orthopedics, neurology, complex neurosurgery capabilities including national certification

as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, and robotic surgery in 10 specialties. Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute, Lehigh Valley Heart Institute and Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence physicians provide the most advanced treatments. Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute is a member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Alliance, an initiative that helps community providers improve the quality of cancer care and offers access to MSK clinical trials. Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, the community’s only children’s hospital, provides care in more than 30 specialties and general pediatrics. Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest is ranked as the region’s #1 hospital for seven straight years and has been recognized among Pennsylvania’s top six hospitals for seven consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report. Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest, LVH–17th Street and LVH– Muhlenberg are the region’s only Magnet® hospitals for nursing excellence. Additional information is available by visiting LVHN.org or following us on Facebook and Twitter.

PAGE 12 — THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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PAGE 14 — THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Journal Sports

Comets overcame many obstacles to become champions by Steve Stallone Sports Editor

ming Area, rival Berwick and then-unbeaten Lake-Lehman in overtime to go to 7-0. In early November, the The Crestwood football Comets routed defending 4A team, like all teams in the state, was shut down in March champ and state finalist Dallas 34-14 to capture just the secwhen the coronavirus panond District 2 championship demic first began taking hold in program history. in Pennsylvania. When the Crestwood was able to acteam was finally allowed to complish this on the strength return in June - amid a lot of of an outstanding senior class, restrictions - the Comets bealong with several standout gan their mission. sophomores and juniors. “In June when we had the “Anytime you get young guys chance to get together face to face after a long offseason, we to buy into what we are trying to do it’s great,” Arcangetalked about being rememli said. “We knew we had a bered,” second-year head talented group of veteran skill coach Ryan Arcangeli said. players, but with youth up “Not just for being able to front we were concerned, beplay during the toughest year cause you can only go as far as in sports (arguably), but for doing everything asked of us/ the trenches will take you.” Well, halfway through their set up for us just to give us the season opener against Hazleton ability to play. To be recognized for setting examples for Area, the Comets were already others on how to do things the without three starting linemen due to injury. “We ended up right way, the safe way.” starting four underclassmen The Comets did just that, on the O-line, three first-time navigating through this crazy starters, and three of the four 2020 football season and clearing injury hurdles almost sophomores,” Arcangeli explained. “They really came into every step of the way. At the their own as the season went end of the journey, they were on and were the reason for our district champions. “The postseason push.” opportunity to win a chamIn addition to the play of pionship was a byproduct of offensive linemen Matt Dean, following all of those protoJohn Jones, Aidan Jardine, cols and regulations and not Chris Smolenak and Josh Snyseeing them as a detriment, but an opportunity to be great, der, the play of its three-headed quarterback was spot-on. to have an impact,” ArcangeWhen star quarterback Ryan li said. “No doubt this team will be remembered for all the Petrosky went down with an right reasons and as one of the injury in Week 2, sophomores Noah Schultz and Brendan best groups of young men to Dennis stepped in and the come through Crestwood.” Comets’ offense failed to miss The Comets edged local 6A a beat in mid-season wins rival Hazleton Area 18-10 to over Nanticoke, Holy Reopen the season, and didn’t look back. They ran the table, deemer and Wyoming Area. “Having Ryan Petrosky at the taking down defending Class quarterback position the past 3A state champion Wyo-

two seasons spoiled us,” noted Arcangeli. “Tremendous athlete and winner whose leadership pours out of him when the lights turn on.” In six games, Petrosky completed 67 percent of his passes (48-of-71) for 664 yards and six touchdowns. He also ran for 311 yards and five scores, and caught a decisive touchdown pass in his return against Wyoming Area, playing receiver that game. “He will be missed,” Arcangeli said. “That being said we couldn’t be more excited about our two guys we have coming back. Noah and Brendan did a great job guiding the offense in four of our nine games.” Schultz rushed for 362 yards and five touchdowns, and also completed 15-of-31 passes for 257 yards and two scores. Dennis added 55 yards passing and another 41 rushing. “Their approach to practice prepared them for Fridays. When called upon they made plays, stayed calm and led our team to great wins,” Arcangeli said. “I couldn’t be more proud of the entire group and look forward to coaching a diverse skill set in 2021.” In addition to the quarterbacks, the Comets got solid production from senior running back Jimmy Hawley (116 carries, 431 yards) and sophomore Kaleb Benjamin (56-326). The two combined for 12 touchdowns. Receivers Nick Kreuzer (16 rec), Brenden DeMarzo (19), Paul Feisel and Marcus Vieney gave the Comets steady play at the position and some big plays at crucial times. Tight end Logan Arnold was one of the best in the conference.

As steady as the offense was, the Comets’ strength in 2020 was their defense. Dean and Ryan Harding were a stellar 1-2 punch at tackle and end, respectively. Each had 40 tackles and five sacks. Dean added seven tackles for loss, and Harding had 10 stops behind the line. Both were named to the WVC Division 2 first team, and Harding was named Defensive Player of the Year. As a team, the Comets held their nine opponents to just 108 points, some of those coming with games already decided. They also had two shutouts, including a 35-0 dusting of Berwick. “We also had two explosive sophomores help to anchor our defensive line that we are really excited about moving forward,” Arcangeli said, referring to Benjamin (20 tackles) and Wyatt Urbanovitch (24). “We also got great defensive play from the corner position with two new starters and a junior strong safety that is starting to excel at the position.” At one corner, Vieney recorded 34 tackles, eight passes defensed, a team-high three interceptions and two fumble recoveries, returning one for a touchdown. Ethan Stoltz had 37 tackles, and both were named all-conference. Meanwhile, Schultz had two interceptions. Linebackers Arnold (38 tackles), Hawley (48) and Cole Kakalecik (47) made up one of the best groups in the conference. Kakalecik returns next season. The Comets took an 8-0 record into the PIAA quarterfinal round against fellow unbeaten Jersey Shore, and

eventually dropped a 26-14 verdict. Jersey Shore went on to the state championship game before finishing runner-up. “Jersey Shore showed just how good they were and earned the win against us,” Arcangeli said. “It was a simple losing formula in our last game, turnovers and empty red zone trips. You can’t expect to win meaningful games when you do those two things. “We preach security of the football all the time, but now we have film to show just how important it is. As a coaching staff we have to do a better job in the red area, and that’s on me. We will address both areas in the offseason and come back better next year.” Arcangeli said he hopes the experience will carry over into 2021. “The positive is just how CLOSE we were to playing for the whole thing, a few plays and we might have been able to make the same run as (Jersey) Shore,” he said. “It’s definitely something to motivate us for next year.” With back-to-back playoff seasons, and the second district title in program history, the bar continues to rise for the Comets. “We can see that the mindset and the standard has changed with the responses our returning players had in our exit meetings. We are past ‘winning seasons,’ ‘getting better’ and ‘get to the playoffs’ as goals,” Arcangeli said. “Our young men want to make that our standard and they know what it takes now, what we expect, how hard wins are to get and the respect you have to have for every opponent. “We aren’t in reload mode yet...but we are trending in the right direction.”

THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 — PAGE 15

It’s a holiday feast of NFL games by Joe Platania

doom a team into a January on the sidelines. My pick: ‘Niners. New Orleans v. MinnesoMiami v. Las Vegas (Saturta (Friday afternoon): New day night): After losing four Orleans certainly wants to of their last five, the Raiders recapture the top NFC seed from Green Bay, and it is well- are home again this week. In an important match-up with equipped to do it. My pick: the playoffs ahead because a Saints. Dolphins’ win would likely finTampa Bay v. Detroit (Saturday afternoon): The Bucca- ish off Las Vegas. And I think that’s what will happen. My neers appear to have shaken off some mid-season inconsis- pick: Dolphins. Baltimore v. New York Gitency and look poised to nail ants: The Giants are playing down a wild-card berth. My better than they had earlier in pick: Bucs. the year, but it’s hard to prosSan Francisco v. Arizona per against a Ravens’ team (Saturday afternoon): These that’s healthy and trending teams slumped at exactly the wrong time and in exactly the upward again. My pick: Ravens. wrong division. To me, the Pittsburgh v. Indianapolis: NFC West is clearly football’s best, and any drop in form can This is another good match-

up with playoff implications -- playoff seeding in this case. I think the Steelers will take this road game, breaking their unexpected three-game losing streak. My pick: Steelers. Houston v. Cincinnati: This game is quite the opposite of the Indianapolis-Pittsburgh tilt. It features two teams that probably expected more out of this season but fell short instead. Bengals’ one-game winning streak ends. My pick: Texans. Cleveland v. New York Jets: Yes, I know...the Jets won last week. That was last week. This week NY plays a Cleveland team that’s chasing the Steelers for the AFC North crown. My pick: Browns. Kansas City v. Atlanta: Kansas City has won nine straight and is in the pole position as the AFC’s top seed and the bye week that goes with it. My pick: Chiefs. Chicago v. Jacksonville: This won’t be one of this week’s highlight games. Chicago is a middle-of-the-pack NFL team, and Jacksonville has lost 13 straight games. My pick: Bears. Carolina v. Washington: Washington has had a better

run of form lately, but NFC East teams usually find a way to stumble. I see that happening here with Teddy Bridgewater and company coming to Landover. My pick: Panthers. Dallas v. Philadelphia: Jalen Hurts has given the Eagles a spark, but he is still a rookie navigating his way through the league. Dallas was the only NFC East team to win last week, and they are just one game out of the lead. (That’s hard to believe.) My pick: Cowboys. Los Angeles Rams v. Seattle: The Seahawks and Rams are fighting over the top spot in football’s toughest division, and that’s why this game should be a mouth-watering match-up. Russell Wilson has the QB edge, while the Rams get the nod on defense. My pick: Rams. Los Angeles Chargers v. Denver: Broncos quarterback Drew Lock is healthy again and playing well, while the Chargers’ Justin Herbert has shown lots of grit and heart, particularly late in games. My pick: Chargers. Green Bay v. Tennessee (Sunday night): The Packers want to hold the top seed in a

loaded NFC. The Titans have won four of the last five. With strength v. strength, this may be the weekend’s best matchup. My pick: Packers. Buffalo v. New England (Monday night): The AFC East torch has passed from New England to Buffalo. A big reason is that Sean McDermott has done one of the NFL’s best head coaching jobs over the last few years. That said, I predict this will be a close game. My pick: Bills. _______ Joe Platania is a veteran NFL beat writer. With Baltimore as his home base, he has covered the Colts and Ravens. Now retired, he writes for The Sports Column.

Puzzle Answers

PAGE 16 — THE JOURNAL-HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Journal Sports On the Sly

Many sports legends among those who passed in 2020 by Steve Stallone Sports Editor

trotters for parts of three decades, passed at the age of 77. NBA Hall of Fame player and coach Jerry Sloan and Hall of This year has been as difficult as any I can remember Fame rebounding great Wes in nearly six decades on this Unseld of the Washington planet. COVID-19 has claimed Bullets both died. And Tommy Heinsohn, who starred as hundreds of thousands of a 17-year player for the Boston lives, sickened many more, and has changed our very way Celtics and then coached the team, and then was a long-time of life. broadcaster, died at the age of The coronavirus pandemic 86. Auburn football coach Pat that has ravaged this country Dye passed away, as did college since March has also done a number on youth, high school, basketball coaching greats Lute Olson of Arizona and John college and professional sports. Seasons have been de- Thompson of Georgetown. The NFL family lost Don layed, interrupted or cancelled Shula, who won more games altogether. than any coach and guided the The past 12 months have 1972 Miami Dolphins to the been a tough time to be a only perfect season in league sports fan, and not just behistory. It was only fitting that cause our favorite pastimes record remained intact again have been taken away from us. Many of our sports heroes this season. The sport also lost Hall have also been taken from us of Fame running back Gale in 2020. Professional basketball lost Sayers, Green Bay Packers “Golden Boy” Paul Hornung, long-time commissioner David Stern on January 1, begin- Hall of Fame cornerback Herb Adderley, Cincinnati ning a year that was hard on the sports world. Don Larsen, Bengals coach Sam Wyche, the New York Yankees pitcher New York Giants coach Ray Perkins, Hall of Fame pass who threw a perfect game in rusher Chris Doleman, Hall the 1956 World Series, also of Fame defensive back Willie died on the first day of 2020. The entire sports world was Wood, record-setting kicker Tom Dempsey, Hall of Fame rocked in late January when runner Bobby Mitchell, pass NBA legend Kobe Bryant, rusher Fred Dean and quarhis 13-year-old daughter and terback Tarvaris Jackson. three others were killed in a Baseball lost some of the helicopter crash in Southern California. Bryant was just 41. all-time greats, including Mets Dribbling wizard Fred “Curly” pitcher Tom Seaver, Cardinals flamethrower Bob Gibson, Neal, who entertained milYankees pitcher Whitey Ford, lions with the Harlem Globe-

all who have passed in 2020, behind, here’s hoping for a “Mr. Tiger” Al Kaline, Hall of much better 2021 for all of us. rest in peace. Fame second baseman Joe As we prepare to turn the Stay safe, stay healthy, and Morgan, base stealing great calendar and leave 2020 far enjoy your holiday season! Lou Brock, Phillies All-Star Dick Allen, slugger and GM Bob Watson, slick-fielding shortstop Tony Fernandez, All-Star outfielder Claudell Washington and Yankees owner Hank Steinbrenner. Olympic decathlon gold medalist Rafer Johnson, soccer great Diego Maradona, boxing champion and trainer Roger Mayweather, LPGA great Mickey Wright and sportscaster Phyllis George also passed this year. Most recently, on Monday, former Steelers pass-rushing phenom and Hall of Famer Kevin Greene died at just 58, adding another sports legend to the list of those taken Pennsylvania newspapers stand united with healthcare workers and urge readers from us in 2020. to take smart steps this holiday season. As we yearn to get together with family I’m old enough to remember and friends, small gatherings are contributing to the rise in COVID-19 cases. many of these athletes during This year, please do not travel and limit your gathering to your household. their playing days. I grew up watching them play on TV, and even saw a number of them perform live. As so many greats have passed this year, it has felt like a part of my past Together our actions can help prevent more illness died with them. May they, and

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