THE
BOXHOLDER
JOURNAL of the POCONO PLATEAU ©2021, All Rights Reserved
VOLUME 25, NUMBER 17
January 22–February 4, 2021
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COLD KINGS: The annual fiesta of the Three Kings was held Saturday, January 9 as a drive-thru event at Mountain Center in Tobyhanna, organized by FLECHA (Federation of Latinos for Education about Cultures of Hispanic America).
PMRPC considers COVID’s impact on law enforcement by Jeanine Hofbauer Looking back on 2020, Pocono Mountain Regional Police Chief Chris Wagner gave a comparison to 2019, “What COVID19 did as far as law enforcement” at the January 12 commission meeting. Reporting a decrease in arrests, he explained how “lockdown” orders affected crime.
Homicide numbers showed an increase, because of a strict stance on drug delivery resulting in death and the ongoing opioid crisis. Though COVID “stalled” the 2019/2020 hiring process with a delay in testing resulting in only 17 candidates, the chief hopes an early start on 2020/2021 procedures will aid in filling two open positions.
Three offers were extended following round two interviews of 10 prospects. The meeting started with reorganization. Unanimous votes elected Dave Moyer as chairman, Fran DePiano, vice-chairman; Kurt Cummings, treasurer; and Claudette Williams, secretary. Harry Coleman remains solicitor, with Gretchen Love as
labor counsel. Chief Wagner and PMRP Commission Executive Committee were re-appointed non-uniform pension plan trustees. Bill Weimer was welcomed to the commission. Representing Coolbaugh Township he replaces Lynn Kelly. Tony Lamantia and Kurt Cummings also represent the township. January’s bill pack totaling
$334,377.50 was approved with funds to be distributed as follows: general fund, $324,614.16; capital projects fund, $9,683.34; ESSA January mortgage payment, $8,983.34; Schoonover & Vanderhoof security upgrade, $700; prescription fund$80.00 Commission members presSee PMRPD, page 2
PAGE 2 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021
PMRPC… Continued from page 1
Pocono Mountain Regional Police Commission 2021 members (from left) John Seese, Barrett Township; Bill Weimer, Coolbaugh Township; Tony Lamantia, Coolbaugh Township; and Mayor Michael Penn, Mount Pocono.
Tutoring aids in adjusting to online learning at PMSD by Jeanine Hofbauer
except it’s virtual.” Carl Hogan from BBD Pocono Mountain East presented district annual audit Junior High School ELA results for 2019 to June 30, teacher Peter Dyson and Math 2020, explaining the pandeminstructor Tom Dyshuk shared ic’s impact on revenue and Virtual Student Tutoring reduced expenses coming in triumphs at the January 6 Po- $9 million under budget. cono Mountain School Board Delinquent property taxes meeting. Program participaand a decrease in state subsition is two nights a week from dies resulted in less revenue. 4 to 8 p.m. with reviews in School closures meant less in ELA, math, social studies and operational expenses including science. transportation, utilities and Dyson said student familiar- professional costs. ity with Google Docs benefits Superintendent Dr. interaction. Teacher sidebar Elizabeth Robison said students notes offer participants the and caregivers can expect an ability to question and reupdate in two to three weeks spond. as administration develops an Dyshuk added that analyzed expanded learning plan. She data delivers ways to show im- also reported no connectivity in provement with video abilities COVID cases with students and in breaking down equations. faculty. Board president Rusty JohnPocono Mountain School son agreed that accessibility is Board’s next meeting is an academic advantage, saing planned for February 3. Visit “[Virtual Student Tutoring is] PMSD.org for sign-on instruckind of like having office hours tions and agenda.
ent were Weimer, Lamantia and Cummings from Coolbaugh Township; Dave Moyer and Brendan Carroll from Tobyhanna Township; Fran DePiano and Crayson Cheung from Tunkhannock Township; John Seese frrom Barrett Township; and Mayor Michael Penn and Claudette Williams fromMount Pocono. PMRPC’s next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. February 9 at police headquarters on Route 940 in Pocono Summit.
Public Notices LEGAL NOTICE Junk Car Auction, 8 AM Saturday, January 23, 2021 Jimmy’s Auto Service 5256 Rt. 115 Blakeslee PA 18610 570-646-2583 2010 Nissan Altima Sedan VIN# 1N4AL2AP6AN556486 Min Bid $1,001.00 No keys, won’t start Sold in As-Is condition
From the Statehouse
Beware of COVID-19 Vaccine Scams By State Rep. Jack Rader The Pennsylvania State Police issued a disturbing warning recently about scammers using the COVID-19 vaccine distribution program as a means to steal someone’s money and/or personal information. Scams already circulating include: • Emails claiming to offer a vaccine waiting list, early access or doses shipped to your home. These emails may have poor grammar and spelling, as well as links that may contain malware that, once installed on your computer, steals your information. • Texts, robocalls or messages on other platforms containing links to websites that promise the vac-
cine but solicit personally identifying information such as addresses, banking or credit card information. The sites may claim to be official sites belonging to manufacturers, medical providers or public health organizations and may be difficult to spot as fake. • Social media posts with disinformation or misinformation about the vaccine’s origins or effectiveness or claims of political motivation. These posts may really be selling worthless or harmful products. To help protect yourself, never provide money or personal information to anyone who requests it in exchange for special access to the vaccine; instead, rely on public health agencies for information about
vaccine availability. Also, be sure your computer has the latest updates and an antivirus program. Delete any email from people you do not recognize or that has attachments you are not expecting. For more information on the vaccine distribution program, visit www.health.pa.gov, or call 1-877-724-3258 (option 1).
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THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021 — PAGE 3
Annual Telethon Set to Help Children in Big Way
Big Brothers Big Sisters of NEPA serving Monroe County Telethon set February 21
Blakeslee Animal Clinic “We Treat Your Pets Like Family” Dr. Andrew J. Church, Veterinarian
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Now more than ever, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeastern Pennsylvania needs public support to keep igniting the power and potential of youth in the Poconos. For 35 years, BBBS of NEPA serving Monroe County has been fortunate to have outstanding support of partners throughout the community and this year is critically important to continue in the organization’s mission. In light of the ongoing public health crisis, the BBBS annual telethon will be held virtually this year on February 21, on Blue Ridge Cable Channel 13 and YouTube from 6–8 p.m. Local mentors will be showcased throughout the telethon. As always, the telethon will feature amazing local talent, this year pre-recorded. The past year has been challenging in many ways for non-profit organizations as well as individuals in our community. Every donation, big and small, will help BBBS toward its goal for this year’s
telethon and will stay in Monroe County to support mentoring programs for our youth. “Each year, the funds raised during the telethon are invested in volunteer recruitment, supporting the match between Bigs and Littles and ultimately defend potential of our young ones,” said Michelle Hamilton, Executive Director of BBBS of NEPA. “At a time when our children need us most, it is our great honor to provide for them mentors and opportunity to improve their quality of life.” Online donations are being accepted at BeABigMonroe. com or by calling (570) 8248756 to pledge support. Every $50 in donations will enter donors into a raffle to win a $100 basket of gift cards. Big Brothers Big Sisters ensures that young people have someone in their corner, someone they can turn to during times like these. During the pandemic, Big Brothers Big Sisters continued to find innovative ways for Bigs
and Littles to stay connected through virtual mentoring or one to one in person mentoring. Please consider helping to continue this critical mission for those in great need in Monroe County. BBBS expresses its gratitude to the Mattioli Foundation and Brown Daub Chevrolet, the organization’s 2021 Empower Sponsors. There are opportunities for corporate sponsorships at varying levels that will provide an opportunity to be featured during the telethon. Honorary chairpersons for this year’s telethon are Chief Jen Lyon of Stroud Area Regional Police and Chris Barrett, President/CEO of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. Additionally, an online auction will be held beginning February 7 and ending February 21 to aid in the fundraising efforts for this unprecedented year. The auction can be found at: BiddingOwl.com/Big BrothersBigSistersNEPA.
PAGE 4 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021
Editorial
Interesting times by Ruth Isenberg
Pocono Mountain Fire Chief among initial first responders vaccinated in Monroe Co. Cites recent COVID death of a Scranton firefighter among the reasons he didn’t hesitate Chief Logan Evans of the Pocono Mountain Volunteer Fire Company has many solid reasons for being among the first emergency responders in Monroe County to get the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine today at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Pocono. “I’m looking to protect myself, my family, co-workers and fellow first responders,” Evans says. “Also, my brother and sister-in-law both work in health care so I had no hesitation in getting the vaccine. This is my part to return to some form of normalcy.” Evans has other reasons, too. One that sticks in his mind was the recent death of a City of Scranton firefighter after contracting the coronavirus while on the job. Evans, 33, says the Scranton fireman was just 28 years old.
“You see that and it makes you think,” he says. “I’m not stuck on this only affecting older people because that’s not the case.” Evans, who also serves as Chairman and President of Pocono Mountain Regional EMS, says he and his ambulance colleagues have responded to more unnecessary deaths than normal because people put health care on hold for fear of getting the coronavirus. “That has opened my eyes.” Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) is now vaccinating firefighters, police officers, National Guard members and Protective Services Personnel as part of the State of Pennsylvania’s Phase 1B vaccination protocol. First responders can learn more about scheduling their COVID-19 vaccination appointment at LVHN.org/
MyLVHN. Cpl. Kevin Kress of the Salisbury Township Police Department received his first dose on January 11 at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest. “I didn’t think twice,” Kress says. “We interact with people all the time and you don’t know when you might come into contact with someone who could spread the virus, so I did it to stay safe for myself, my fellow officers and the community.” Evans says he’s grateful to LVHN for providing the vaccinations and urges everyone to get it as soon as it’s offered to them, including his colleagues at the fire company and ambulance services. “We strongly encourage our team members to take advantage of this opportunity.”
There’s a saying, “May you live in interesting times.” At first, it sounds like a positive wish. Who wants to live a boring life? It’s more of a curse. The “interesting times” we are experiencing right now don’t make us happier, they make us anxious and often angry. But there is a bright side. Interesting times make us think, in a way that peaceful times don’t. Interesting times have many facets, and give us the opportunity to look at situations from multiple angles. That’s what we need right now. Interesting times give us the chance to study what’s happening, and to take a long view. How do other people think and feel, and why? What has led our country and our world to this point? Where can we go from here? And how? The best, and the worst, thing about interesting times is that they are interesting because they are complicated. There are no easy answers, and that means that real thought and real effort are needed to move forward. But the most interesting thing about interesting times is that easy answers seldom satisfy, and seldom work for the long term. There’s hard work ahead for all of us — and it will definitely not be boring. A note: If you look up the quote “May you live in interesting times” online, the first listings will label it as an ancient Chinese proverb. But dig a little deeper, and you will see that Chinese, British and American scholars dispute this, instead saying it is of British or American origin, and only 30 to 40 years old. I first ran across it as a novel by Terry Pratchett, titled Interesting Times, published in 1994.
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021 — PAGE 5
New distillery in Kidder Township welcomes tasters Holy Ghost Distillery on Route 940 in Kidder Township is now open and selling their own Szczypkowski Vodkas and flavored Vodkas, as well as McNamee’s Black Irish Bourbons. The business, five years in the making, is a distillery and a craft cocktail bar – a destination location for family,
friends and co-workers. Owners John and Janice Sepcoski bought the Route 940 property just over three years ago, and have been busy building out the business, and getting it open late in 2020. It’s a place to have unique parties and outings. And, if you are interested in classes, it is the place where you can
learn the entire process, from mash making through fermentation, distilling, bottling and cocktail making. HGD is the first distillery in Pennsylvania to become a Stave & Thief Society Establishment member. The owners are certified as Executive Bourbon Stewards to hold the Certified Bourbon Steward classes. You can register on www.holyghostdistillery.com for this and other classes. What’s better than chocolate and booze? Holy Ghost Distillery, is offering 60-minute Bourbon and Chocolate pairings classes led by Janice Sepcoski. “Our goal is to make terrific affordable craft products,” said John. “We have been traveling the states visiting countless distilleries. We have invested
hundreds of hours learning and perfecting this craft by working and volunteering in distilleries around the country.” Check out upcoming events on their website or book a private room in their tasting house. By summer, plans are to offer live music in a grove out back on the property on at least two Saturdays a month.
This winter, HGD is open weekends from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and weekdays by appointment. Find them at 990 Route 940, White Haven, PA, 18661, or go west on Route 940 past the Moseywood Road traffic signal for about a mile. Call ahead for curbside service, or to book a table, at 570 990-2673.
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PAGE 6 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021
PM West HS to host county drive-thru COVID-19 Testing Clinic Testing Clinic will run from January 28 – February 1, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pocono Mountain School District is partnering with the Pennsylvania Department of Health to host a county drive-thru COVID-19 Testing Clinic at the Pocono Mountain West High School from Thursday, January 28, through Monday, February 1, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., regardless of weather.
The Pocono Mountain West High School COVID-19 Testing Clinic will take place in Lot A on the Sullivan Trail Campus located off of Route 940 at 181 Panther Lane, Pocono Summit. The Clinic will be open to anyone who wants to receive a COVID-19 test.
The Clinic will have the capacity to test up to 450 people per day. Mid-nasal passage swab PCR tests will be performed. No appointment is necessary. Testing is on a firstcome, first-serve basis and is free for all individuals. Testing is also open to indi-
viduals who are not county residents. Patients must be ages 3 and older and are not required to show symptoms of COVID-19 in order to be tested. Parents are encouraged to bring a photo-ID or insurance card. Registration will be com-
pleted on-site. The turnaround time for testing results is two to seven days after testing. Individuals who test positive will receive a phone call from AMI, while individuals who test negative will receive a secured-PDF emailed to them from AMI.
NEPIRC & IRC Network to host free Legal Aspects of COVID-19 Vaccination for Employers webinar In response to industry inquiries, the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) and the Industrial Resource Center (IRC) Network will
host a no-cost “Legal Aspects of COVID-19 Vaccination for Employers” webinar for manufacturing firms of all sizes on Wednesday, February 10, from 10 to 11:15 a.m. The live
interactive webinar will be broadcast via Microsoft Teams and advance registration is required. The webinar will be moderated by NEPIRC and the
featured presenter will be Atty. James Devine, a partner of Cipriani & Werner – a nationwide legal firm that specializes in representing employers in this niche aspect of HR and
employment law. Among other topics, the event will cover the legal ramifications of mandating vaccination for employees, how to address the concerns of workers opposed to vaccination, the extent to which employers can disclose the vaccination status of co-workers and similar topics. Manufacturing sector managers, supervisors, HR professionals and executives desiring to register for the event should email Chelsey Coslett, NEPIRC Marketing Specialist, at Chelsey@NEPIRC.com. While this event is free to attend, electronic “seating” is limited to 250 attendees.
Visit our website at pocononewspapers. com or find us on Facebook for more photos, news, and features.
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021 — PAGE 7
Briggs Farm Blues Festival ready for July 2021 Briggs Farm Blues Festival will host a weekend of live music and social gathering July 8, 9, & 10. The world-class line up ready to rock the 24th annual blues festival includes established blues acts who routinely grace the international stage, national home-grown artists, and local talent bursting at the
seams with gritty guitar riffs and searing vocals. This not to be missed musical event will charge the hot summer air with one heck of a party! For the past two decades, the peaceful setting at Briggs Farm has provided the backdrop for three days of foot-stomping tunes and musicians who
know how to get an audience on their feet. With two stages and over 20 acts featuring various genres including eclectic blues, delta-style blues, Americana roots music, soul and a bit of funk. Festival president Richard Briggs states, “Live music creates a special thread of
Grateful Dead, Van Morrison, and Creedence Clearwater Revival to name a few. Friday, July 9 ushers in the Blues with a powerful lineup including headliner Ana Popovic, Lil’ Ed and the Blues Imperials, the harmonizing Campbell Brothers, and the incomparable Celisse Henderson. The music will carry into Saturday, July 10 with headliner Shemekia Copeland, the unforgettable Victor Wainback Tom Brady. Green Bay, have its hands full. On the wright, Mac Arnold & Plate on the other hand (and even other hand, while the Bills Full O’ Blues, and the eccentric with the dominant presence of have a high-quality passing Scott Pemberton. While the Aaron Rodgers), seemed more game of their own, at issue is Main Stage is rockin’, the intilike a complete team. Second, whether its backs/line can run mate Back Porch Stage bursts the Pack is at home at likelyeffectively against KC (only 32 with unforgettable artists to-be-frozen Lambeau Field. yards against the Ravens). such as The National Reserve, It’s a place where they don’t It’s a tall order for this squad Gracie Curran, King Solomon lose very often. Third, there’s from Lake Erie’s shore. ManHicks, Gabe Stillman, Swampan element we’ll never see on aging Mahomes, controlling candy, and more. the screen. Rodgers would the KC run, doing both on the The family-oriented festiprobably never admit it, but road, and playing in their first val, just a few miles off Interthe Jordan Love draft selecchampionship game in over a state 80, also offers on-site tion lit a fire under him. He quarter-decade against the de- camping, a vendor village full responded like the superstar fending NFL champ is asking of high quality, hand crafted he is. Give TB credit for getting a lot of a championship-level items and a variety of delicious TB this far, but it’s as far as newcomer. But if any team food. Patrons can bring in ‘the other bay’ will go. can overcome and achieve, it’s their own beverages, coolers, (1) Kansas City v. (2) these Bills. and snacks. Tickets for the Buffalo (Sunday night, CBS): ________ event went on sale January This should be a close, terrifBaltimore-based Joe Plata15. More information and ic game between two teams nia is a veteran NFL beat writ- ticket purchasing options can that are eminently capable of er. He writes for The Sports be found on their website at representing the conference in Column. briggsfarm.com Tampa. That’s why it deserves this slot on primetime TV. And the suspenseful aspect of this clash is whether the Bills can stop the multi-faceted Kansas City attack. That said, all bets are off if Chiefs’ QB Patrick Mahomes can’t play (concussion). I think he will, and that will give this game an all-weapons available look — including on the ground where, surprisingly, the game may be won and lost. Because of Mahomes, the Chiefs’ rushing attack doesn’t get the passing game’s headlines. But KC can run the ball, and that means Buffalo will
NFC and AFC Championship Picks by Joe Platania
(1) Green Bay v. (5) Tampa Bay (Sunday afternoon, Fox): Once upon a time when both of these times weren’t very good, former NBC studio analyst Pete Axthelm (now deceased) called this matchup “The Bay Of Pigs.” Obviously,
that’s not the case now. The Packers are consistent contenders, and the Buccaneers having awakened from a 13year playoff absence. So what’s the skinny in this meeting? Let’s start with the bay in Tampa. The Bucs lost plenty of games this year by relying too much on quarter-
connection. There’s no limit to what music can do to bring us all together, and we need that more than ever.” The music will begin Thursday July 8th with sounds from 1970, offering reminders of fun times, great friends, and Jimi Hendrix. Festival goers can expect to hear renditions of the
PAGE 8 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021
Mauch Chunk Trust supports hospitality & restaurant worker relief fund throughout the Poconos The Mauch Chunk Trust Company presented a $5,000 donation to the Pocono Mountains United Way Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund to support local workers who are navigating the uncertainty of steady employment throughout the pandemic. To show appreciation to hospitality and restaurant workers for their contributions to our community, Pocono Mountains United Way established the Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund in December 2020. As an offshoot of the organization’s Crisis Response Fund, 100% of all donations will be utilized in the form of
direct mini-grants to workers. To date, the fund has collected over $138,000. With over 284 applicants served, monies still remain to help those in need. Hospitality and restaurant employees who live or work in Wayne, Pike, Monroe, and Carbon counties are eligible to apply. Eligible recipients will receive funds in the form of a $250 gift card, virtual gift card, or ACH transfer. Gift cards can be used as cash anywhere major credit cards are accepted. Funds will be provided via “Tremendous Rewards” via email or text message, with the option of choosing how you would like
to receive the funds. Mauch Chunk Trust joins a growing list of major contributors including the Pocono Mountains United Way, The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Monroe County Government, The Mattioli Foundation, ESSA Bank & Trust, and United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties. “This warms my heart that our community continues to show up and respond when we are challenged, that we are coming together to serve those that have served us, that we care for the vulnerable,” said Michael Tukeva, President/ CEO for Pocono Mountains
Heritage Hill receives Best of 2021 award from SeniorAdvisor.com For the fourth consecutive year, Heritage Hill Senior Community is a winner of SeniorAdvisor.com’s annual awards for outstanding senior living determined by online reviews written by seniors and their families. This award is an exclusive designation that honors the top 3% of senior care providers across the country and Canada. “It is an honor to be recognized among an elite group of senior providers. Heritage Hill is grateful to our residents and their families for the positive reviews and heartwarming words of encouragement and show of support over the last year. Our residents are our extended family and we work day in and day out to provide them with superior care!,” said Lisa Perla, executive director at Heritage Hill. A Place for Mom, the nation’s largest senior living
referral service, launched SeniorAdvisor.com in 2013. Of the nearly 45,000 senior living care providers listed on its site only around 600 were recognized with this prestigious award. SeniorAdvisor.com is considered the leading consumer ratings and reviews site for senior care and services in the
U.S. and Canada. To qualify for Best of Senior Living, senior living communities and home-care providers had to maintain a 4.5-star rating or above and receive six new reviews between Oct. 19, 2019, to Oct. 31, 2020. Find additional details and a complete list of award winners at www. SeniorAdvisor.com.
United Way. “Recipients have shared that they are using these funds to pay for groceries, to pay for their rent, and to celebrate the holidays. You have given the gift of hope, and for so many, that is immeasurable,” he said. Chris Barrett, President/ CEO at Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, knows the impact that this funding is having on members of the community. “We are grateful for the partnership of the Pocono Mountains United Way that brought this program to fruition. Hundreds of our co-workers have been helped
in some small measure at this critical time in their lives…and we will continue to provide that assistance through additional donations for as long as possible.” Hospitality and restaurant employees across the Pocono Mountains can apply online at www. poconounitedway.org for financial assistance. The application requires basic demographic information as well as a 2019 tax return and most recent paystub to determine income eligibility and verify recent employment.
Holy Ghost Distillery a small batch craft distillery and craft cocktail bar is open
Makers of McNamee’s Black Irish Bourbon and Szczypkowski Vodka & flavored Vodkas. Visit our tasting room located just minutes from Lake Harmony and Jack Frost Mountain at 990 Route 940, White Haven, 18661 - 1 mile west on Route 940 from the traffic signal at Moseywood Road Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekend And weekdays by appointment Curbside pickup is available Visit www.holyghostdistillery.com Book a Private Room / Table Reservations available for Friday, Saturday and Sunday; limited to parties of 6 or less. Call 570-990-2673 Also offering 60-minute Bourbon and Chocolate pairings classes and Certified Bourbon Steward classes.
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021 — PAGE 9
Craft your way out of COVID at PMPL Pocono Mountain Public Library is very excited to be offering two very fun crafts via Zoom. Crafting is a great way to defeat boredom during the pandemic. According to a study by the University of Arkansas, making crafts helps you reduce stress, relieve depression & anxiety, builds selfesteem, decrease the chances of cognitive decline, and help build relationships. To register, e-mail us at poconolibrary.info@gmail.com and we’ll arrange a time for you to pick up your craft supplies. Earring and Bracelet Craft: Wednesday, January 27 at 2 p.m. Zoom in and make a pair of earrings and a bracelet from the comfort of your own home. The library will provide all craft supplies to make these dazzling pieces of jewelry. Crazy Cat Collage: Friday, January 29 at 2 p.m. Does the Covid winter got you down? Want to be creative but don’t know where to start? Let loose and make a crazy cat collage with us on Zoom. The library will supply the paper, the images, and a glue stick. You provide the creative genius.
Also keep an eye on PMPL’s YouTube channel, Facebook page, and our new website (www.poconolibrary.org) for helpful resources, guitar lessons, book reviews, reading recommendations, and other library news. And don’t forget that we have an extensive e-book and e-audiobook collection, which you can find on our website. It’s absolutely free. Just click on the Hoopla or Overdrive link. Funding for these programs has been provided by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) as part of the Corona Virus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020.
PAGE 10 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021
Look for signs of ‘greening’ in Mountainhome When rain falls or snow melts in a natural landscape, the water slowly seeps into the earth. But parking lots, roads, roofs, and other hard surfaces interrupt that natural cycle. Instead of seeping into the earth, stormwater rushes off and scours away, washing sediment and other pollutants into the nearest creek. “Green infrastructure” is an umbrella term for the many ways it’s possible to slow that stormwater down, capture it, and allow it to seep into the soil in ways that mimic nature. That’s what the flurry of activity this summer was all about at Mountainhome United Methodist Church, on Route 390 in Mountainhome, where two green infrastructure projects were installed. One involved removing solid asphalt and replacing it with
pavers that allow stormwater to sink deep into the ground. The other created an underground holding tank that captures stormwater runoff from the church roof and parking lot, allowing it to infiltrate the soil slowly and naturally. Mickey Miller, a long-time member and leader of the church, was pleasantly surprised by the results. “I was afraid it was just going to be such a mess,” he said. “But now you can’t even tell where the work was done.” That’s a good thing. But part of the purpose of the projects was to clue people in on how green infrastructure can purify water and protect beautiful Mill Creek, the heart of Mountainhome. “Signs will be posted here in the spring,” said Edie Stevens of Brodhead Watershed As-
sociation, who got the project rolling. “One shows a cutaway view of the underground trench. The other shows the permeable layers that are underneath the new pervious pavers.” The interpretive signs will have photos and information about how the projects work.
“Compared to the cost of cleaning up a polluted stream, green infrastructure is a bargain,” Stevens added. “It’s natural, cheap, and much more effective than complicated mechanical systems.” The Greening Mountainhome project is a Green Com-
munities project funded by grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, with support from The William Penn Foundation, and the Weiler Family Foundation. For information: www. brodheadwatershed.org.
YOU
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021 — PAGE 11
MATTER The past year has been challenging. From the coronavirus pandemic, protest movements, elections and changes in government, you have been able to rely on your local community newspaper to report the facts and provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions. Local community journalism offers stability when you need it most. You can continue to count on us for Real News.
Obituaries NANCY L. PETERSON Nancy L. Peterson, mother, High School in Rochester, NY. grandmother, great grandShe earned her B.S.N. in Nursmother, family matriarch, ing from Nazareth College in of Lake Rochester, NY. Harmony, Nancy was a long tenured entered Nurse in the Med - Surg Dept. peacefully of Gnaden Huetten Hospital of into the lov- Lehighton. ing hands of Nancy was a member of the her Lord on Nazareth College Alumni Thursday, Assoc, and especially enjoyed January 14, going to lunch and social2021, at home surrounded by izing with her friends. She her beloved family, at 84 years enjoyed traveling to visit of age. her children, grandchildren Born Wednesday, Decemand great-grandchildren all ber 2, 1936 in Rochester, New over the United States and York. the daughter of the late Canada, running errands for Philip, and Elizabeth (Foery) Peterson Ski and Cycle, socialHafner. She was also predeizing and watching Nina, Eric ceased by her husband Francis and John play in the Peterson N. Peterson on April 10, 1993; Band. She was an active memdaughter, Elizabeth F. Lutz; ber of St. Peter the Fisherman sisters, Marie Aubel, Virginia Roman Catholic Church and Hafner; brothers, Thomas, and had unshakable faith. Frederick Hafner. Funeral arrangements have Surviving are sons, Mark F. been entrusted to the Philip J. Peterson of West Hollywood, Jeffries Funeral Home & CreCA, Eric F. Peterson and his mation services of Weatherly. wife Nancy of Blakeslee, Scott A Mass of Christian BuriF. Peterson and his wife Hilary al was celebrated on January of Dallas, John F. Peterson and 20 from St. Peter The Fisherhis wife Diane of Jim Thorpe; man R.C.C. of Lake Harmony, daughters, Julie F. Monsignor Donald Chizmar Marcoullier, wife of John officiating. of Cape Neddick, ME, Mary Memorials in her name to: F. Compagner, wife of Doug Shiners’ Hospitals for of Grand Haven, MI, Nina F. Children and Operation Smile Peterson, wife of Sue Decker of Interment will be in St. Ottawa, Canada; 16 grandchil- Matthews Church Cemetery, dren; 3 great-grandchildren. Weatherly, at a date to be anMany nieces, nephews and nounced. friends survive Nancy. Online expressions of A devout member of St. sympathy or a fond memoPeter The Fisherman R.C.C. of ry of Nancy can be placed by Lake Harmony, Nancy gradu- visiting www.griffithsfuneral ated from Our Lady of Mercy homes.com
Additional Obituaries on pages 15 & 16.
PAGE 12 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021
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THEME: SUPER BOWL ACROSS
49. Brown on “Doctor Who” 1. *Starr of Super 51. *He has most Bowl I and MVP Super Bowl ap5. Epsom or …vianpearances as a les-Bains coach 8. Mexican money 55. Plural of #38 12. Gulf V.I.P. Across 13. Biblical pronoun 56. Norse deity 14. Competitive 57. Joie de vivre musher, e.g. 58. *3-time Super 15. Saintly glow Bowl champ, Russ 16. From the sky and ____ often damaging 59. Pasturelands 17. Early anesthetic 60. Ready for picking 18. *Halftime show 61. Black and white performer treat 20. Photo editing 62. *Another form of option Super Bowl enter21. T. S., poet tainment 22. Chi forerunner 63. Command, with 23. *Team with most “at” consecutive Super Bowl appearances DOWN 25. Swindles 29. Even, to a poet 1. Thai currency 30. Slanting charac- 2. Wet nurse ters 3. Rub the wrong 33. Cough syrup way balsam 4. Gardener’s little 34. Travels by air helper 36. “What’s up 5. British soldier’s ____?”, asked by parade hat Bugs Bunny 6. *P in PAT 37. Southeast Asia 7. “____ Lang Syne” org. 8. *Team with most 38. German currency Super Bowl ap39. Wb, pl. pearances 41. 9 to 5, e.g. 9. Reverberating 42. Substitute, two sound words 10. Slowly leak 44. Express a 11. NHL great thought 13. Opposite of 46. Hitherto atheist 47. Winter “fever”? 14. Short version
19. ____ Island off Manhattan 22. Nervous twitch 23. Knockout 24. Below, prefix 25. *Player with most Super Bowl points scored 26. Warm downslope wind 27. Distress signal 28. Phoenix team 29. Flock members
31. Port of Yemen 32. Tennis shot 35. *Jim Nantz’s partner 37. Savory jelly 39. A must for a comedian 40. Williams and Wright 43. Natural theology 45. Answer to “Where are you?”, two words
47. Surrendered land 48. Spy’s other name 49. Feline vibration 50. Albany-Buffalo canal 51. Cowboy’s necktie 52. Pelvic parts 53. Big letters 54. Proposal joint 55. “I” mania
PAGE 14 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021
Police Beat Just after 7 p.m. on 12-17, Pocono Mountain Regional Police were dispatched to a home in the 7400 block of Ventnor Ave. in APCP, Coolbaugh Township, due to a report of a gunshot wound to a person there. Police had been to the home previously for a domestic incident that had no violation of law. This time, police arrived to find an adult male shot in the chest, and 32 y/o Zasha Sanchez was determined to be the shooter. Sanchez was arrested and taken to the Monroe County jail, charged with attempted homicide. The victim was taken to LVH-Pocono, in stable condition. On 1-11, the PMRPD and Monroe County Sheriff’s Department made a traffic stop at the entrance to Arrowhead Lakes, in Pocono Lake, Tobyhanna Twp., at 10:24 p.m. In the vehicle were a 48 y/o Blakeslee woman, and a 26 y/o local man — both of whom had warrants for their arrest for drug offenses — the woman, wanted in Monroe County and the man in Carbon. She was arrested for the warrant, and he added a hindering apprehension charge to his warrant, for harboring her. Both were taken to the Monroe County jail. On 1-18 at about 5 p.m., in a case of mistaken identity, a Volvo with five locals inside was being driven out of A Pocono Country Place in Coolbaugh Township when the group saw a black Mercedes exiting the development and mistook it as containing a man whom they have a conflict with. The Volvo’s driver cut off the Mercedes, and began shooting at it. The Mercedes’ driver drove it south on Route 196 to get away. The Volvo pursued, while shooting at it.
by Seth Isenberg
The Mercedes turned into the Tobyhanna Shopping Center where the two men who were inside that car got out armed, and returned fire as the Volvo entered the parking lot of the shopping center, guns blazing. A female passenger in the Volvo was wounded in the head by the return fire. The Volvo driver turned it around and drove away. Soon, he transferred the wounded woman into another car, and a second woman from his car also got out to be with her. That car then started to go to a hospital. As they drove south, the driver chose to flag down police at Kings Way, and an ambulance was arranged to take the wounded woman to care. After the exchange of gunfire at the Tobyhanna Shopping Center, three people remained in the Volvo: Laron Watson, Solidin Hamilton and a 16 y/o juvenile. They drove back into APCP to a home on Ledgewood Drive under the mistaken idea their intended victim may be there. The group then fired into the home, wounding two people there. After that, Watson alone drove to another home on Hampshire Drive in Pocono Farms East, also Coolbaugh Twp., where he encountered a 20 man and shot him in the leg. Through the police investigation, officers quickly identified Watson and Hamilton as persons of interest. As the investigation blossomed, other participants were identified. As this writing, police had secured eight search warrants, finding multiple firearms. Watson, Hamilton and three others have been arrested and taken to the Monroe County jail. Police believe that all actors involved have been identified and those who are
criminally culpable are in police custody. The investigation is continuing. The two men in the Mercedes who were shot at and then returned fire have been interviewed in consultation with the Monroe County District Attorney’s office. No criminal charges against them are in process. During the shootings, police from all over Monroe County turned out to aid the PMRPD. Local TV reports noted that patrons in the Tobyhanna Shopping Center took cover in one of the stores during the exchange of gunfire. No bystanders were hurt. There have been incidents of shooting into homes in the PMRP region recently, which are being investigated to find the perpetrators.
Stealin’ On 12-31 between 1:30 and 5 a.m., three thieves broke into the Brodheadsville Self Storage and then damaged and entered trailers and campers. Stolen were coins and coin collections, snowmobile items, camping items, tools, an AR-15 rifle, a military uniform and medals, a ukulele, and more. PA State Police — Fern Ridge is investigating and would welcome any leads — call them at 570 646-2271 if you can help. A weekend homeowner reported a ’20 Chevy Silverado pickup stolen from his Caedman Road, Towamensing Trails property in Penn Forest Twp. on 1-3. The vehicle was found in Philadelphia on 1-4, and recovered. Someone stole an Asus Vivobook computer off the front porch of a Brittany Dr., Towamensing Trails, home on 11-24 (reported to PSP-F on 1-20.
An 84 y/o Penn Forest Twp. man was scammed out of $400 in an e-mail fraud that had him sending two $200 Best Buy gift cards to the thief, 1-15.
PennDOT notes
Weather permitting, PennDOT contractors will be doing road sign work along on various roads in Monroe and Carbon Counties. Also be alert for pothole patching crews. Keeping the Core borings will be taken rubber side down at night on Interstate 80 west Driving too fast with snow in Stroudsburg. There will be and winter conditions caused a lane restrictions. handful of crashes. Be alert for a bridge inspecAt 5 a.m. on 1-10, the driver tion crew on Routes 33 and of a pickup truck northbound 209. on Route 115 in Saylorsburg During winter storms, Pennran out of gas and coasted to DOT will communicate restrica stop partially in the road. A tions (like reduced speeds and local driving his Honda Accord truck bans) via variable mesat the posted speed came up sage boards along area roads, on the truck and hit it, spinthe 511PA traveler information ning it into the opposite lane website at www.511PA.com and into an oncoming Jeep. All and on smartphone apps. Mothree vehicles were disabled. torists can sign up for alerts on No one was hurt. www.511PA.com by clicking on “Personal Alerts” in the lefthand menu.
THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021 — PAGE 15
Obituaries JOSEPH MICHAEL BENNER Joseph Michael Benner, 94, In addition to his wife, he of Pocono Lake, died Thursis survived by his children: day, December 24, 2020 at Margaret Mary Argot and her home. He was the loving husband, Mark of Pocono husband of Marie (Clayton) Lake, Michael J. Benner and Benner, with whom he shared wife Elizabeth of Blakeslee, 70 years of marriage. Kathleen Benner of Blakeslee, Born in Philadelphia, he was John S. Benner of Blakeslee, the son of the late Joseph and and Carolyn Gueiss and her Gladys M. (Carte) Benner. husband, Marvin of Blakeslee; As a young boy, he joined the daughter-in-law, BarbaBoy Scouts and enjoyed camp- ra Benner of Wilkes-Barre; ing at Treasure Island Scout ten grandchildren; eight Camp in Point Pleasant. great-grandchildren; and sevA proud veteran, Joseph eral nieces and nephews. In served in the United States addition to his parents, he was Navy during WWII. preceded in death by his son, He worked as a fly boy for Joseph J. Benner. the Curtis Publishing CompaA Mass of Christian Buriny and for the Maintenance al was held at St. Maximilian Department at The Franklin Kolbe Parish in Pocono Pines. Mint prior to moving to the Interment with Military HonPoconos in 1973. Joseph later ors followed at Pocono Lake worked for the Pocono Moun- Cemetery. tain School District and RoadIn lieu of flowers, memoriway Express, Inc. al donations may be made to St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, PO Box O, Pocono Pines, Pa 18350, or the Lehigh Valley Home Care and Hospice Pocono, 502 VNA Road, East Stroudsburg, Pa 18301. Private cremation has been entrusted to Bolock Funeral Home Crematory.
BEVERLY WESTBROOK Beverly Ruth Westbrook, 67, of Mount Pocono, died Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital Monroe in Bartonsville. She was the loving wife of the late James “Edward” Westbrook, who passed away in 2004. Born in Jamestown, New York, she was a daughter of the late Anthony Dean and Alladean (Cornwall) Waite. Beverly was a veterinary technician with a tremendous love of animals who donated to animal rescue missions like the ASPCA and the Animal Welfare Society of Monroe (AWSOM). She had a deep appreciation of Native American culture and loved to watch WWE wrestling. Beverly was of the Methodist faith, a member of the United Methodist Church in Tobyhanna, and the United Methodist Women’s Organization. Beverly is survived by her beloved daughter, Vanessa Westbrook of Mount Pocono. A memorial service will be held at United Methodist Church in Tobyhanna. Private cremation has been entrusted to Bolock Funeral Home Crematory.
EILEEN AVRICH Eileen Avrich, 72, of Long In addition to her husband, Pond, died Tuesday, December she is survived by her son, 22, 2020. She was the loving Brian Avrich and his wife, wife of John Avrich, with Lisa; daughter, Denise Avrich whom she shared 48 years of and her husband, Casey marriage. Stowers; two nieces; and six Born in Brooklyn, New York, grand-nieces and nephews. she was the daughter of the There will be no services at late George and Rita (Maher) this time; private cremation Hurley. has been entrusted to Bolock Eileen participated with Funeral Home Crematory. the Monroe County League of In lieu of flowers, memorial Women Voters, was a memdonations may be made to the ber of the Emerald Lake’s American Cancer Society: P.O. Women’s Association, and Box 22718, Oklahoma City, was active in local community OK 73123-1718 or by visiting committees and fundraisers. donate3.cancer.org. GEORGE T. DELLI SANTI JR. George T. Delli Santi Jr. 95, California; daughter, Elena of Tobyhanna, died Saturday, Harte of Henderson, Nevada; January 9, 2021 at home. He and three grandchildren. was the loving husband of Bolock Funeral Home, 6148 Tressa (Janos) Delli Santi, Paradise Valley Road, Creswith whom he shared 22 years co, was in charge of arrangeof marriage. ments. The Reverend Father Born in Hillside, New JerGregory Loughney conducted sey, he was a son of the late a blessing service January 14 George Sr. and Mariantonio at the funeral home. Burial (Guzzolin) Delli Santi. was held January 15 at St. GerGeorge attended Franklin trude Cemetery, Colonia, New and Marshall College in LanJersey. caster and later enlisted in the In lieu of flowers, memorial United States Naval Air Force. donations may be made to the After his honorable discharge, Pocono Mountain Regional he worked as an Electrical EMS, 135 Tegawitha Road, Engineer for BellSouth and Tobyhanna, PA 18466. AT&T. He was a member of many local organizations. George WINTER SCHEDULE was a well-known perfect Saint Nicholas gentleman, who loved to cook Byzantine traditional Italian meals. Catholic Church In addition to his wife, he is ROUTE 940 • POCONO SUMMIT (Between CVS & Tractor Supply) survived by his sons, George T. Delli Santi III and his wife, MiDIVINE LITURGY (MASS) chelle, of Austin, Texas; James Covid 19 Schedule W. Delli Santi of Los Gatos, Call for Information
To place an obituary, please email journalruth@gmail.com
Very Rev. Michael Salnicky, Pastor (570) 595-3265
PAGE 16 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, JANUARY 22–FEBRUARY 4, 2021
Obituaries
JANET RUTH BULTELE Janet Ruth Buntele, age 91 ville, Oregon. of Blakeslee, formerly of We have been blessed Oregon, passed away on Sunwith the presence of Janet in day, January 10, 2021 at St. our lives. She will be deeply Luke’s Hospital Monroe missed by her children, Linda Campus in Stroudsburg. Fischer of Blakeslee, Joanne Janet was the wife of the late Bruno and her husband Louis William John Buntele Jr. who of Aruba, Janet Durham of preceded her in death in 1981. McMinnville, Oregon and She was born in Newark, NJ Lloyd Buntele of Port St. on February 2, 1929, daughter Lucie, Florida. of the late Lloyd P. and Bertha She was preceded in death (Heinzmann) Walker. by a son, William J. Buntele Janet had worked for SatelIII. lite Communications in MonJanet is also survived by 11 mouth, NJ for 20 years. grandchildren, 13 great grandShe was of the Methodist children and 8 great great faith and before moving to grandchildren. the Poconos she was an active No services are scheduled at member of the McCabe United this time. Methodist Church in McMinn-
DORIS L. MANCHESTER Doris L. Manchester, 95, of of Hazleton, her son, SteMount Pocono, died Saturday, ven Hecht of Roscoe, New December 26, 2020 at Smith York, four grandchildren, six Health Care in Mountain Top. great-grandchildren; and sevShe was the loving wife of the eral nieces and nephews. late Robert Manchester, who Thanks to Smith Health passed away in 1985. Care Administration and enBorn in Beech Hill, New tire staff for the loving and exYork, she was a daughter of emplary care they provided for the late Perry and Florence her these past three years. (Sturdvant) Shaver. The love she had for her Doris was President of Pofamily will be cherished cono Pines Friendly Center, forever in our hearts. was a member of the RSVP We love you Mom. Retired Seniors Volunteer There will be no services at Program, and the American this time, private cremation Legion Auxiliary. has been entrusted to Bolock She is survived by her Funeral Home Crematory, daughter, Donna Green Cresco.
PAUL LATZANICH Paul Latzanich, 86, of Mount husband, Dr. Jonathan Stone, Pocono, died Tuesday, Januof Villanova; sister-in-law, ary 12, 2021 at Grace Park in Audrey Latzanich of Venice, Stroudsburg. He was the lovFlorida; grandchildren, Krista ing husband of 55 years to the and Colin Kissell and Ava and late Marie S. (Siegel) LatzanSean Stone; and numerous ich, who passed away in 2019. nieces, nephews. In addition Born in Dunmore, he was to his wife, he was preceded in a son of the late Michael and death by his brothers and their Anna (Juba) Latzanich. wives; Michael; John and his A proud veteran, he served wife, Nancy; and George and with the United States Army his wife, Theresa. Reserves. During his working The Reverend Father Robert career, Paul, along with his Lozinski celebrated a Divine wife, Marie owned the Quik Funeral Liturgy January 16, Shop in Mount Pocono for at St. Michael’s Byzantine many years, and spent their Church, Dunmore. Burial winters in Lauderdale by the followed at St. Michael’s Sea in Florida. He was an avid Cemetery, O’Neill Highway, gardener, loved European Dunmore. river boat travel, his daughIn lieu of flowers, memorial ters and grandchildren, a hard donations may be made to St. days work followed by a cold Michael’s Byzantine Catholic beer and a good polka. Church, 511 East Drinker He is survived by his daugh- Street, Dunmore, PA 18512 or ters, Dr. Carol LatzanichSt. Nicholas Byzantine Kissell and her husband, Catholic Church, P.O. Box 515, Dr. Scott Kissell, of Cresco, Pocono Summit, PA 18346. and Donna Stone and her
JOAN MARIE LUKOWIAK Joan Marie Lukowiak, 88, of Aspasia, Tess, Kelly, ChrisStanhope, New Jersey, former- topher, and Annie; and 13 ly of Mount Pocono, passed great-grandchildren. away peacefully at home. She In addition to her husband, was the loving wife of the late Lawrence, she was preceded in Lawrence J. Lukowiak, who death by her brothers, John, passed away in 2018. Bob, and Lloyd. Born in Belleville, New JerDue to COVID restrictions, sey, on December 4, 1932, she there will be a private was the daughter of the late graveside service. John H. and Adeline (McCrea) In lieu of flowers, memoriBell. al donations may be made to A graduate of Belleville High Most Holy Trinity Parish, 236 School, class of 1950, Joan was Pa 390, Cresco, Pa 18326. athletic, playing softball and bowling with a tremendous sense of humor. She and her husband, Lawrence, worked in the soup kitchen at the former in the St. Mary’s of the Mount Catholic Church in Mount Pocono. TV Joan is survived by her three 20th ANNIVERSARY children, James and his wife, on Blue Ridge TV 13 Marge, Rudy and his wife, HOSTS: Alex & JoAnne Zidock Claire, and Diane and her THURS. 9:30 PM Replays: FRI. 8:30 AM & 9:30 PM companion, Dr. Larry Lewis; SAT. 12:30 PM • SUN. 1 AM & 11:30 AM MON. 12 AM & 6 AM 12 grandchildren: Rudy Doug, ALL OUTDOORS • WILDLIFE Anna, Melanie, Samantha, HUNTING & FISHING CONSERVATION • ENVIRONMENT Jacquelynn, Ian, Andrew,
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JANE A. WATSON Jane A. Watson, 81, formerly of Long Pond, died Thursday, January 14, 2021 at Saucon Valley Manor in Hellertown. She was the loving wife of the late William Watson, who passed away in 2019. Born on July 6, 1939 in Watertown, New York, she was a daughter of the late George and Beaulah (Farr) Pettis. Jane is survived by her four children, sons Michael Watson of Long Pond, and William Watson of Naples, Florida, and daughters Jane Watson of Amenia, New York; and Nancy Watson of Denton, Texas; sisters Georgina Pettis of Long Pond, and Mary Trombley of Cape Vincent, New York; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. There will be no services at this time; private cremation has been entrusted to Bolock Funeral Home Crematory.