Journal of the Pocono Plateau, Early August 2024

Page 1


Journal

of the POCONO PLATEAU

VOLUME 29, NUMBER 5

TTVFC found in contempt, ordered to turn over equipment and pay damages

Judge C. Daniel Higgins has issued a ruling finding Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company partially in contempt, almost a year after Tobyhanna Township brought an action against them in Commonwealth Court for removing equipment from the fire apparatus it turned over to the township.

The ruling, issued July 19, gives the TTVFC 20 days to return the missing equipment, and 90 days to pay damages of $180,000 to the township. This figure is based on an estimate prepared by supervisor and Tobyhanna Township Bureau of Fire member Joseph Colyer for the cost to refit the vehicles.

In his ruling, Judge Higgins reviewed testimony from the December 2023 hearings on the contempt motion. TTVFC Fire Chief and current township supervisor Ed Tutrone’s testimony included that the TTVFC attorney had advised them to turn over all equipment with the vehicles. He also stated that one of the primary reasons for removing the equipment was to avoid sanctions by the PA

One of the pieces of equipment as it was turned over to Tobyhanna Township last year. File photo

Auditor General’s office; in his discussion of the motion, Judge Higgins rejected that argument, calling it “without credibility,” and “incredulous.”

Noting that a finding of contempt requires that there must be notice, volition, and wrongful intent. In his discussion the judge noted that TTVFC had notice of the order, which stated “All titles to [the] vehicles and equipment in the possession of [the Defendant] shall be transferred to [the Plaintiff] within twenty (20) days of

this order and said vehicles and equipment shall be relinquished to [Plaintiff ] within thirty (30) days of this Order. (Emphasis added.) He also considered the letter from the TTVFC counsel which advised them not to remove equipment, but to turn the vehicles over intact but with a list of equipment they felt was not purchased with taxpayer money.

Regarding volition, Judge Higgins cited testimony by Tutrone and by TTVFC Chief Troy Counterman about who called the meeting of

the Association to vote on removing the equipment, as well as secrecy with which it was performed.

Finally, regarding wrongful intent, the judge found that the testimony of Tutrone and Counterman, in context with the other evidence showed that the TTVFC acted “with the requisite mental state.”

The document is 17 pages long, too long to be printed here in its entirety. It is interesting reading, and can be viewed on our website, pocononewspapers.com.

When contacted for comment, Tutrone said that he had been advised by the attorneys for both the TTVFC and the Relief Association

Timeline

to limit his comments. He noted that they would be meeting this week to decide how to proceed, but they would probably appeal the ruling. “We don’t understand how a judge can order one corporation (TTVFC) to turn its property over to a totally separate corporate entity (Tobyhanna Township).

Tutrone also noted that the finding of contempt was against the TTVFC, not against him or Counterman as individuals.

He said he could not comment on whether or not the TTVFC had funds available to pay the $180,000 sanction.

1985—Fire tax enacted by Tobyhanna Township. Funds to to TTVFC and Pocono Summit Fire Co.

August 15, 2022—Tobyhanna Township enacts Ordinance 571, regulating fire company activity in the township August 22, 2022—Letter received from TTVFC counsel advising the township the TTVFC would not serve as “officially recognzied” fire company for the township, but would provide free service on a seondary basis

August 25, 2022—Tobyhanna Township seeks injunction to have TTVFC relinquish titles for the vehicles

September 2, 2022—TTVFC files its answer ~November 29, 2022—Monroe County Comm Center is notified by the township not to dispatch TTVFC to fires in the township

December 5, 2022—Tobyhanna Township files its answer

See TIMELINE, page 2

Elements Music Festival topic at Tunkhannock Township

Tunkhannock Township Supervisors met with organizers of the Elements Music Festival at their July workshop meeting. At the regular meeting on July 10, supervisors reported that the two big issues discussed were traffic and noise. Organizers are changing the traffic pattern this year, and main stage music will stop by 2 a.m. The festival will take place August 9 to 11 at Pocono Raceway.

Supervisors noted that the variance for the festival was approved by the township’s Zoning Hearing Board in 2021, not by the board of supervisors. The ZHB is an

independent body, and while the supervisors appoint the members, they do not control their decisions.

Other business

Bob Bashore was appointed Emergency Management Coordinator for the township.

A $1,000 donation to provide food for emergency personnel stationed at the Tunkhannock Township Fire Company during the NASCAR weekend was approved.

Supervisors approved a resolution allowing the township to invest some of its funds in Treasury bills for higher interest.

Township fees for

commercial and demolition permits were increased to $100. The commercial fee was previously $75, and the demolition fee was $30.

Correction

Last month, we reported that the Bethlehem Water Authority only pays $11,000 per year to the township in lieu of taxes. Supervisors wish that was the case. The actual figure is $1,100.

Timeline

Continued from page 1

December 9 and 20, 2022— Hearing before the Court of Common Pleas July 19, 2023—Opinion and Order issued, in part in favor of Tobyhanna Township and against TTVFC, ruling that all titles and equipment are to be turned over to the

township, transferred within 20 days, and delivered within 30 days August 22, 2023— Tobyhanna Township filed a motion seeking an order of contempt and sanctions against TTVFC, because while the vehicles were turned over, they were stripped of equipment December 18, 2023— Hearings were held in the Court of Common Pleas

Letter to the editor

Dear Editor,

I am still scratching my head why the Tobyhanna Township Supervisors would take away the property and land rights of 88-90% of the townships land and homeowners rights that do not have a Short Term

Rental. Including giving up their rights and property values.

Rentals promote local businesses to flourish.

Extend home and land values for ALL OWNERS, whether they own a home, a short term rental, land

or commercial businesses. The right to rent your home is your right as an owner. We need to protect our land rights and have the Township Supervisors abolish the cap in our township.

Limiting rentals only hurts local businesses and property values for ALL members of our township.

If you understand what the CAP is doing right now and you care about your Property Rights and Values, please sign the Petition to Abolish the STR CAP in our township.

Kara Sincvage, One who cares about everyone’s property rights and values

On Tuesday August 6, from 5 to 9 p.m., National Night Out is being presented at A Pocono Country Place E-Field in Tobyhanna. There will be free food, giveaways, top politicians and law enforcement official speakers. The Rockin Horn Band will fill the stage with classic rock to soul sounds. And after 15 years, Ron East, entertainment director & founder of this Northeast event, will be leaving. The Night Out Event will be hosted by Co-Director Chief Alli of A.P.C.P. Public Safety.

Pocono STR Conference & Home Show set for Kalahari

The inaugural Pocono STR & Home Conference, produced by PSHC, LLC, is set to take place on August 23-24 at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions. This twoday event promises to be the premier gathering for individuals interested in the short-term rental (STR) and home industry.

With an impressive lineup of sponsors and exhibitors, the conference will cater to a wide range of professionals, from contractors and landscapers to plumbers and local bakeries. Attendees can expect to find everything they need, all under one roof. The 2024 Pocono STR & Home Conference aims to provide education and inspiration to both newcomers and experienced individuals in the STR industry. The event will feature a series of workshops and presentations designed to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed in this rapidly growing market.

One of the highlights of the conference is the Free Friday Workshops, which will offer valuable insights into property management software and business/ life coaching. Hostfully Software, title sponsor of the conference, will present a demo of their reliable and affordable PM software solutions, showcasing how it can streamline operations, enhance the guest experience, and maximize revenue. Industry experts will cover various topics, including anticipatory design, implementing technology into STR businesses, and the secrets of the STR market. Real estate professionals will also share their expertise on funding deals, finding the right properties, and renovating and staging homes. The conference will conclude with a Q&A panel featuring seasoned veterans who can address any remaining questions.

“At PSHC & Associates, our mission is to empower STR business professionals, homeowners, and those looking to begin their journey with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in this ever-changing world of short-term rentals and home ownership,” said Aaron Stower, organizer of the conference.

“The Pocono STR & Home Conference promises to be a day filled with networking opportunities and thoughtprovoking presentations on a key industry in our fourcounty region,” said Chris Barrett, President/CEO of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. “We are thrilled to have such a professional group of STR advocates sharing best practices and providing important support for our Pocono Mountains vacation rental hosts.”

The Pocono STR & Home Conference will also provide ample opportunities for

networking and exploring the Marketplace Home Show Floor, where attendees can take advantage of exclusive specials. The event will culminate with a VIP Networking Event hosted by “Dream Rental Creations,” offering

a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and forge valuable business relationships. Registration is open for the Pocono STR & Home Conference at PoconosSTRandHome Conference.com

August Art Show: Derek Lederer– “Wildlife Photography”

The Kettle Creek Art Gallery is hosting a Meet the Artist-Derek Lederer on Saturday, August 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The works of Derek Lederer will be on display in the Gallery at Kettle Creek for the month of August.

Through his photography, Derek strives to capture not only the physical

beauty of birds and wildlife but also their spirit and essence. Derek aims to transport viewers into the serene landscapes and intimate moments he’s been privileged to witness through his lens.

The gallery is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will be open Saturdays, August 3, 10 and 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration is not required for this program. There is no charge. Call 570-629-3061 with any questions.

Photos wanted for calendar

Enter your best photos into Monroe County Conservation District’s Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center 2025 Photo Contest. Send in photos that showcase Monroe County’s finest natural resources.

Winners will receive maple syrup from the Meesing Sugarbush and a 2025 MCCD calendar. One grand prize winner will also be featured on the cover of the 2025 calendar. Submissions are due no later than September 20. For details and entry form, call (570) 629-3061, or visit www.mcconservation.org/ mccd-photo-contest

Seth’S SightingS

Summertime in the Poconos and the gift of fine weather made this past weekend’s White Haven 200th birthday festival into something special. These two days were a suitable way to truly celebrate. Ruth and I, and our guests, truly enjoyed the event we could walk right out our front door at the Journal office and be at festival booths.

We look forward to an event like it, next year.

The sound of June bugs is a reminder of my time at summer camp on Cape Cod. The buzzing would echo around the cabins. It was a treat to hear them as I sat on the patio of our home.

Hanna’s Farm Market

Butterflies continue to visit as well.

Sightings were lean this week, just fox, raccoons, skunks, and deer with their fawns, and at least one beautiful trophy buck. There were no close encounters this week though we did come upon a set of young bucks coming across the road home, for which we stopped.

Reader Tom Bird sighted a rattlesnake crossing the road. Thanks for the photo. More photos of Pocono Plateau critters and other happenings are welcome The Olympics has me watching in bits and pieces. So far, I have watched swimming, diving, gymnastics, and

811Stoney Hollow Rd

Pocono Lake 570.442.7045

Fresh Produce

Artisan Breads Tuesdays & Fridays; Fresh Baked Baguettes Wednesdays & Sundays; Bagels, Muffins, Fresh-Baked Pies Too; Locally Butchered Meat; Charcuterie; Alaskan-Caught Seasfood; Local Dairy; Italian Pastas from Philadelphia; Many More Locally-Sourced Food Items; Fresh Brewed Coffee and Herbal Teas served daily.

volleyball, and I am looking for surfing. The photos from the surf competition are amazing, especially the one where the surfer looks to be floating on air. I am checking the internet daily for bits of competition and who has earned medals.

Ruth and I were out to an opening performance of Cymbeline at the PA Shakespeare Festival. Lovers of Shakespeare should find a way to see this performance. It is well acted, complex and rich. Shakespeare included all kinds of plot twists… missing brothers, a plotting stepmother, separated lovers, betrayal and

repentance, war, and a happy ending for most of the troop.

We also were out to see Liz Callaway perform in Swiftwater for a fine show at the Pocono Mountain East High School auditorium. The show was part of this year’s Pocono Mountains Music Festival, which wrapped up this past Sunday.

See SIGHTINGS, page 9

Open Monday through Thursday 9-5; Friday & Saturday, 9-6; Sunday 9-4. hannasfarmmarket@gmail.com

Clymer Library announces collaboration with St. Luke’s Health Network

Clymer Library announces a collaboration with St Luke’s Health Network, based in Bethlehem, bringing important healthcare information and materials to the Library for patron access.

The collaboration envisions expansion of the program to include a speaker series on a broad range of healthcare topics designed specifically for the benefit of the community. Well care services such as screenings and blood pressure monitoring are also being considered for future development of the collaboration.

Effective immediately, information on major medical conditions is available for Patrons and their families. “The addition of medical information to our collection enhances the value Clymer extends to the community” said Melissa Lopez, Library Director.

Supporting Improved Patient Outcomes

“The Clymer Library is excited to collaborate with St Luke’s to contribute to improved patient outcomes in our community” said Suzanne Penavic, Clymer Library Board of Trustees President.

Summer concert series to end with Frost Duo

The 2024 Pocono Mountain Summer Concert Series concludes with The Frost Duo, featuring vocalist LeahBeth Evans and multiinstrumentalist Christian Gratz on Sunday, August 18 at 7 p.m.

The Frost Duo has been recognized regionally and nationally for their own compositions and covers of hit songs we all know and love. They shine in many genres including traditional jazz, Rhythm & Blues, and soft rock. They have been named best jazz group two years in a row by the Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame, and best cover duo by the Steamtown Music Awards in Scranton. Additionally, LeahBeth

Evans was recognized for her vocal ability in 2019 by the Josie Music Awards in Tennessee. You will not want to miss this final opportunity to enjoy an evening of live entertainment expertly performed by these local artists at no cost.

Faith Lutheran Church in Blakeslee is the proud host

of the Pocono Mountain Summer Concert Series, bringing free, familyfriendly entertainment to our shared community for 21 years. Sunday evening performances are held rain or shine in the church sanctuary. Thanks to our 2024 sponsors and audiences for their generosity that made this season a success.

Faith Lutheran Church is located at 550 Route 940, Blakeslee. For more information, call 570-646-0309, visit www.faithlutheranblakeslee.org, and like us on Facebook at Faith Lutheran Church, Blakeslee PA.

St. Luke’s Care Now offers fast, convenient care for minor illnesses and injuries when your primary care doctor can’t see you immediately.

• Minor illnesses and injuries including: the common cold, flu, sinus infections, sprains, strains, broken bones and more

• A St. Luke’s provider is always available.

• Walk-in Lab and X-ray services with a script from your primary care physician at this location

• Comprehensive Occupational Medicine services available for local employers stlukesCareNow.org

JournaL CLaSSifiedS

For Sale

Need IRS Relief $10K - $125K+ Get Fresh Start or Forgiveness? Call 1-877-705-1472 Monday through Friday 7AM-5PM PST

Health /Fitness/Medical

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00. 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Español

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 www. dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Attention oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866-477-9045

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-553-1891 www. dental50plus.com/macnet #6258

DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER and 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. NO obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 1-866-590-5563

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-866-518-8391

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844-317-5246

If your business offers home health services, advertise here. Call 570-215-0204 xt2

Home Improvements

Home Improvements

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-791-1626

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855465-7624 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-356-1954

We transform your kitchen in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. Since 1979, Kitchen Magic, a family-owned business offering cabinet refacing, new cabinetry, and luxury countertop throughout the Northeast. Call today for a free estimate 1-844-887-5145 (PA017137)

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 8/25/24.) Call 1-844-826-2535

Aging Roof? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091

Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code!

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777

Medical Supplies

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and longlasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-837-7844

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

New windows from Window Nation. Special money saving offer – zero down, zero payments, zero interest for TWO years AND buy 2 windows and get 2 FREE! Offer is valid for select models. Labor not included. Other restrictions apply. Call Window Nation today! 844-513-2646

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971 DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Miscellaneous

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-569-3087

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-888605-4028 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material - steel from Erie Metal Roofs!

Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-844-290-9042

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-437-1428 Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 855-402-5341

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-629-6086

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer.) Offer ends 8/25/24. Call 1-844-501-3208

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-855-672-8674

Home Improvements
Home Services

THEME: THINGS WITH BUTTONS

Genoa or storm

Pouch

Support for #1

Gaelic language

Big-ticket ____

Flowerbed cover

Western Samoan money

Agrippina’s slayer

Literature class homework

*”The Curious Case of ____ Button”

God of thunder

Tight or rigid

Blunder

*____ control

*Alarm clock delay

Edible tuber

Racecourses

Crew propellers

Sightings

Often follows dark or back 37. ____-Town, or Chicago

38. Friend, south of the border

39. Singular of #25 Down

40. Containing uranium

42. Rip off

43. Sleeping sickness vector

45. Che Guevara’s hat, pl.

47. Roman road

48. “And Then ____ Were None”

50. Hillside, in Scotland

52. *Home ringer

55. Raccoon’s South American cousin

56. Debate side

57. Spring in a mattress

59. Ar, atomic number 18

60. Black-tie occasion

61. Golfer’s aim

62. Group with pressure

63. Stallone

64. Semiprecious variety of agate DOWN

1. Collector’s goal

2. Kuwaiti, e.g.

3. ____ of Man

4. Shanty

5. Flower trunks

6. American Eagle’s intimates brand

7. “Oh _’___!”

8. *Edible button

9. “The Sun ___ Rises”

10. “The Lion King” villain

11. Olden day “your”

13. More asinine

14. City area

19. Bulwark

22. Ems follower

23. Aimless walk

24. “Bravo! Bravo!”, e.g.

25. Pall ____ and ____ of America

26. Largest organ of human body

27. Mobutu Sese Seko’s nation

28. Cereal killer

31. Land measure

32. ____-cha-cha

34. Wails

36. *Tall building people-mover

38. Of sour taste

40. All 50 states

41. Spanish airline

44. Make a logical connection (2 words)

46. Repeat an echo

48. Opposite of atonal

49. In a heated manner

50. Dull one

51. Angry display

52. Entertainingly eccentric people, Down Under

53. “On Golden Pond” bird

54. ____ of the valley

55. *A baseball one has a button on top

58. Lexington airport code

Continued from page 6

Looking ahead, Musikfest in Bethlehem is underway and runs to the 11th. We’re considering a trip to see Scythian perform on Friday night weather permitting. Shows are free except for headliners, but parking is not.

A nice note, gas prices are going down just as we begin to travel a bit. Knoebels is on the list for a trip as the Mahoney Brothers are performing their Beatles and More shows there August 6 to 11.

It’s busy busy with our Journals and LAKE NEWS this week and next. We’ll be trapped behind our computer screens more than we’d like but we’ll get some time off late next week. Wishes of good health to you all.

May peace find its way especially in Sudan, Ukraine and Gaza. Sudan promises peace talks just before things really get bad there. Getting hostages home is the promise in Gaza to calm the craziness trying to infect Lebanon.

As always, I’m thankful for the peace that we enjoy round the Pocono Plateau.

Visit our website at pocononewspapers.com for in-between-issue stories and events

obituarieS

BERTHOLDA WASH

Bertholda “Holly” (Kirchschlager) Wash, 96, of Pittsburgh and formerly of Tobyhanna passed away in her home on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Holly was the beloved wife of the late Andrew J. Wash, with whom she shared a long and happy marriage.

Holly worked for Sanofi Pharmaceutical for over 20 years. She was an active member of the former St. Ann’s Parish of Tobyhanna where she volunteered on various committees since 1968. Holly was a member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary Post #3448 of Tobyhanna.

Holly will be lovingly remembered by her sons, Peter Wash, Eric Wash, Andrew Wash, Jr. and Thomas Wash; daughter, Elisabeth Wash; brother, Anton Kirchschlager of

Trossingen, Germany; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Andrew, Holly is preceded in death by three sisters and three brothers.

A Mass of Christian Burial took place July 25, in Most Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, Cresco. Interment followed at Prospect Cemetery of East Stroudsburg.

The Bolock Funeral Home, 6148 Paradise Valley Road, Cresco, was in charge of arrangements.

Visit our website at pocononewspapers.com for in-between-issue stories and events

Helen O’Brien, 87 years old, of Pocono Lake, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, July 25, 2024.

Born in Manhattan, NY, on August 7, 1936, she was the daughter of the late John and Olga (Futerko) Terhune. She attended Epiphany School and Cathedral High School and was later employed by Goodbody & Co. where she worked for many years on the fast-paced Wall Street trading floor. After marriage, Helen moved to Staten Island, NY to start a family, relocating to the Poconos in 1975 where she lived the rest of her beautiful life.

vaccines and other important pharmaceutical products. She was also employed at Salisbury House, a group residential home where her natural skills as a caregiver enabled her to give the gift of independence to adults with behavioral health disorders as a Residential Advisor.

Besides these many important jobs, Helen’s greatest role of all was as a mother. In addition to her own children, she nurtured and cared for so many others in her lifetime with her natural gifts and boundless love.

them in her later years as she assumed the role of matriarch in their lives.

Helen enjoyed life to the fullest, lighting up every single room she ever entered with her warmth, authenticity, radiant smile and contagious laughter. While she made everything fun, she especially enjoyed bingo, gardening, cooking, going to the beach, polka dancing, hitting the casino, doing crossword and jigsaw puzzles and feeding the wild birds in her yard.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 62 years, James (“Jimmy”) O’Brien, son James (“Jay Jay”) O’Brien, and sister Edna (Terhune) Taylor.

Helen was employed for many years at the original Mount Airy Lodge, working first at the Front Desk and later joining the Sales Department, where she eventually was promoted to Director of Group Sales. She was incredible at her job, was beloved by co-workers and clients, was active in the Pocono Mountain Visitor’s Bureau, and she was passionate about the work that she did in hospitality.

Following the resort’s closure, she worked at Sanofi helping to produce flu

Surviving are her daughters, Erin O’Brien (Smokey Stout) and Olga Murray (Chris) and her beloved granddaughter Georgia Murray (Tyler Herschman). She is also survived by her three brothers John Terhune, Gregory Terhune and Michael Terhune. She also leaves behind her two feline companions, Cocoa and Simba.

She was the absolute heart of the family and adored her many nieces and nephews and the children of her best friends, becoming even closer with many of

With great sorrow and immeasurable gratitude, the O’Brien/Murray/Terhune families will forever mourn our beautiful, strong, funny, vibrant and generous mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, but we will do our best to recreate the joy she brought to this life, to emulate her selflessness, and to honor her with each of our remaining days.

A memorial visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to Noon on Friday, August 9, at Bolock Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 6148 Paradise Valley Road, Cresco, followed by memorial service starting at Noon at the funeral home with a fellowship time immediately after.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (www. stjude.org).

Hospitality celebration at Full Gospel Holiness Church of God in Christ

The Full Gospel Holiness Church Of God In Christ Hospitality Auxiliary invites the community to attend its 7th Anniversary Celebration Service on Sunday, August 25, at 4 p.m. at 167 Summit Avenue, Pocono Summit.

Mother L. Bracy, president of the Hospitality Auxiliary, said, “We are praising the Lord for all He

Puzzle Answers

has done and is going to do in the future for Hospitality at Full Gospel Holiness Church Of God In Christ. Our desire is to glorify God in our celebration. We extend an open invitation to you to join us and help us celebrate, ‘Stir Up The Gift’ and give God the glory. He is worthy of being praised. It is our desire to bring the community that we serve together for a time of celebrating, and to show hospitality to our community in food, fellowship, and worship.”

Hospitality Day is a day to show the love of God that transcends race, creed, color, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or denomination. 1 Peter 4:9. “Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” The Hospitality Auxiliary’s endeavor is to bring this scripture to life in the present day.

You can support by attending physically, praying or planting a “Hospitality Seed” via CASH APP: $fullgospelholiness / or ZELLE: fullgospelholiness@

verizon.net. Personal checks can be mailed to 167 Summit Avenue, Pocono Summit, PA 18346. Please mark donations for “Hospitality 2024”—however you chose to support the Hospitality Auxiliary will be appreciated. Your contribution is tax deductible and receipt will be provided upon request.

“Most of all, we would like to meet, greet you personally, and show you what our hospitality is all about. Make this a

family day of fellowship and hospitality,” Bracy concluded.

PoLiCe beat

7-29, PA State Police responded to a Cocopah Circle home to cite the homeowner because their dogs were loose and chasing the neighbors.

The PSP contingent at Mount Airy Casino posted that they caught two 18-yearolds trying to enter the gaming floor. Two others, ages 19 and 20, tried using counterfeit New York and New Jersey drivers’ licenses which got them arrested.

7-27, 1:23 a.m., PSP at Mount Airy Casino found a man with a counterfeit $20 bill. An investigation was opened.

7-26, 5 p.m., A Daleville, PA, driver eastbound on Interstate 80 struck a deer

with his minivan, disabling the van. Neither the driver nor his two children were hurt he was seat-belted and the kids were secured in booster seats.

7-7, 7 a.m., a Colorado man driving his 2010 Honda Civic on I-80 west broke down and he pulled it onto the center median. He left the car and walked into the woods. PSP arrived to find the car without a driver. The man was located a few hours later while walking along the Interstate nearby. He was found to be driving under the influence. He also gave false identification so he was arrested.

A 33 y/o Kunkletown man is accused of stealing crypto currency worth $44,790

from victims in the Effort and East Stroudsburg areas. He is charged by PSP with theft by deception.

Among the rest of the reports were drivers in various no-injury fender benders and rear-enders on roads and in parking lots, identity thefts, credit card frauds, no-injury collisions with trees, guide rails, etc., shoplifting and investigations into persons not allowed to apply for a firearm.

Contact PSP-Fern Ridge at 570 646-2271.

PennDOT

Look out for crack sealing and pothole patching crews on various Pocono roadways including Route 940.

Paving and bridge work is ongoing on the Pennsylvania Turnpike day and night.

Route 940 in Carbon County has been milled from the Monroe County line in Blakeslee to White Haven. The road is uneven and grooved ahead of repaving later this month.

Be alert, drive safe.

Check conditions on major roadways via www.511PA.

com. It’s free and available 24 hours a day provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following local alerts on X.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.