Journal of the Pocono Plateau, Late December 2022

of the POCONO PLATEAU

100th birthday marked by celebration, quilt presentation

as a patriot, teacher, husband, father, Sunday School teacher, husband, father, Sunday School teacher, genealogist, historian and community volunteer.

Representing the NEPA QOV, Davis stated the quilt is an expression of gratitude meant to thank and comfort veterans for their service, sacrifice, and valor in serving

the nation. For more information on the Quilts of Valor Foundation or how to help the local chapter, visit www. qovf.org or contact nepqov@ gmail.com. The QOV Foundation has presented over 300,000 handmade quilts to military veterans nationwide and abroad since its inception in 2003.

Latino Meet and Greet group’s origin story

by Ray & Zaida Vargas

Eugene Edgar Kerrick, Jr. of Stoddartsville, recently celebrated his 100th birthday with over 100 family, friends and former students at Jack Frost Lodge. His celebration also included recognition of his military service in the U.S. Navy during a ceremony held by the Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA) Quilts of Valor (QOV) Chapter.

Jan Davis, a member of the NEPA QOV Chapter, opened the ceremony with highlights of the honoree’s military service which began in 1942 following graduation from the University of California,

Berkeley. Entering as a Lieutenant in the Naval Intelligence, he was quickly in the thick of things at Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

In1944, he was selected to attend and graduate from the U.S. Navy/Japanese/ Oriental Language School in Colorado in June 1944. Translating documents and time spent with Japanese prisoners, Kerrick learned the heinous effects of war in the South Pacific and at the war crime trials in Guam and Tokyo.

After the war, Gene pursued his master’s degree

when war called him again. As the Korean Conflict broke out, he once again volunteered for the Navy and was assigned duty at the Pentagon in Naval Intelligence.

Lieutenant Kerrick completed his honorable military service in June, 1953.

Later, Lieutenant Kerrick’s continuing education became a lifelong commitment as a history teacher at Friends Select School in Philadelphia. Today, he is still involved in its reunion activities.

Recognized as one of the Greatest Generation, the honoree followed his passion

The purpose of the Latino meet and greet group is to get Latinos together and learn about the community from those Latinos already settled here, by sharing stories of what they had encountered and how they were resolved.

The Latino group was inspired by Father Sean Carpenter of St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Pocono Pines in the fall of 2019. In the community there was a family who had recently arrived to the Poconos, desiring to live and raise their children in a beautiful quiet and peaceful setting. The family had no friends nor did they know any of their neighbors. Their English was not that good, so they kept to themselves. The only places

they knew were the stores in Mount Pocono. They knew of no churches or malls or very few places where they could be understood.

They had a teenage son who was not adjusting very well to the new environment, or school. He had no friends or any direction on how to stay occupied, as most teenagers want. His English was very poor and he felt uncomfortable speaking to his new acquaintances. After a few months he became very depressed and difficult to deal with. His parents had no way to deal or help him. They had no place to turn to. In his depressed state he became aggressive and troublesome to his family and his siblings. He got to the point where he committed suicide.

Father Sean found out

Eugene Kerrick, Jr., seated along with family member Sharon Powell, looks on as Jennie Valick-Kopacz, representing the NEPA QOV Chapter, presents him with a valor quilt.

Latino Group

about this family that he could have helped, if only he had known about their concerns and problems with their teenage son. Father Sean spoke with the family and offered the burial service, which the family accepted. He became concerned that the family did not have any type of help.

In 2019 Zaida and I were approached and asked to meet with Father Sean. We had no idea what it was about. I am a lecturer, Eucharistic minister and an usher, and my wife Zaida is a Eucharistic minister. We have been parishioners in the church for over 14 years. We joined Maximilian Kolbe June 2009 after

Christ the King Parish closed in Blakeslee.

Zaida and I are retired. We lived in New Jersey where we raised our two children, Nancy and David. We moved into our summer home in Pocono Lake in 2008 right after we both retired. I was in retail operations and Zaida in geriatric nursing.

Father Sean asked if Zaida and I would like to help with an issue that needed attention with someone who spoke Spanish. Of course we were hesitant, but we decided to listen to Father Sean and find out what he needed help with. It was evident he was upset at the loss of the young child in this family.

Father Sean told us what had occurred, but that there was no one to help or support this family. He asked if we

would be willing to start a ministry group for Latinos at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish. We agreed to think about it and let him know when we got back from our vacation in Florida in April 2020. Father was determined to start the group, so he agreed to give us time to think about taking on the task. After being on vacation in Florida for three months we arrived back in PA in April of 2020, and agreed to take on the Latino ministry. But COVID-19 hit us and nothing happened until 2022.

In April 2022, Covid calmed down and we started our ministry, Latino meet and greet. Zaida and I contacted everyone at all masses who we thought were Latino, and asked if they could join us in the church hall on

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the lower level. We met in April 2022 for the first time and started discussing with the group why the church wanted us to meet and what the criteria would be. We met one Sunday a month after the 10:30 mass, which most of us attended. At our first meeting we decided how we would promote the group, by producing flyers and posting them in post offices and gated communities from Blakeslee to Mount Pocono and in any business that would let us. We decided to send emails to all church members with sur-names we thought were of Spanish heritage; it worked out worked well.

We also discussed having speakers to discuss community issues and inviting all churchgoers to share with us, further promoting the group. At the start of the meetings we share coffee and refreshments. Meetings begin with prayers in Spanish. New

members are introduced to the group, then we discuss issues of concern.

We continue to grow and will continue to have meetings as long as the group thrives and members feel the need to help all new members looking to socialize by attending our meetings. Father Sean, Zaida and I want to thank all the great members, ladies, gentlemen and children who attend and contribute to our group. Also, we want to thank Juli Reese, manager, who works with us to make our flyers and accommodate us with our meeting dates.

If you would like to learn more about meeting and greeting other Latinos, contact St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, Pocono Pines, 570646-6424.

Ray & Zaida Vargas, Ministry Leaders Ruth Isenberg, Contributor

Zaida and Ray with Father Sean

Comienzo Del Grupo Para Conocer Y Saludar Latinos

El proposito del grupo de encuentro y saludo latino es para reunir a los Latinos para aprender sobre la comunidad de los latinos que ya se establicieron aqui. Compartiendo historias de lo que encontraron cuando llegaron aqui y como lo resolvieron.

El grupo fue inspirado por el sacerdote Sean Carpenter de la paroquia St. Maximilian Kolbe en Pocono Pines Pa en el otono de 2019. En la comunidad habia una famlilia que habia llegado recientemento a los Poconos.

Deseando vivir y criar a sus hijos en un hermoso entorno, tranquilo y pacifico. No tenian amigos ni conocian a ninguno de sus vecinos. Su ingles no era tan bueno, asi que se mantuvieron solos.

Los lugares que solo conocian eran los comercios de Mount Pocono. No sabian de Iglesias, ni centros

comerciales o lugares donde encontrar a alguien que los entendiera.

Mientras tantos tenian un hijo adolescente que no se estaba adaptando muy bien al nuevo ambiente y escuela. No tiene amigos ni ninguna direccion sobre como mantenerse ocupado. Su ingles era muy malo y se sentia incomodo hablando con sus nuevos conocidos. Despues de unos meses se deprimio much y sus padres no tenian forma de ayudarlo. En su estado depresivo se volvio agresivo y problematico para su familia y sus hermanos. Llego al punto en que se suicidio.

Cuando el padre Sean se dio de cuenta de esta familia a la quien el podría haber ayudado si lo hubiera sabido acerca de las preocupaciones de la familia y sus problemas con su hijo adolescente. El padre habló con la familia y

le ofreció el servicio de entierro que la familia aceptó. A medida que pasaba el tiempo al padre le preocupaba que la familia no tuviera ayuda . En 2019, a Zaida y a mí nos pidieron que nos reuniéramos con el padre Sean. No teníamos idea de qué se trataba, así que nos reunimos un día durante la semana. Yo Soy conferenciante, ministro eucarística y ujier, y mi esposa Zaida es ministra eucarística. Servimos en la iglesia desde hace más de 14 años Nos unimos a Maximilian kolbe en el 2009 después que la parroquia de Cristo Rey cerrara en Blakeslee. Zaida y yo somos jubilados, yo estaba en operaciones minoristas y Zaida en enfermería geriátrica. La reunión con padre Sean fue para el preguntarnos si zaida y yo querríanos ayudar en un tema que necesita atención y alguien que hablara español,

por supuesto que dudamos en responder. Pero decidimos escuchar al padre Sean y averiguar qué era lo que necesitaba ayuda. Mientras el hablaba con nosotros, era evidente que el estaba molesto por la pérdida del hijo pequeño de esta familia. El padre Sean nos contó la serie de hechos que habían ocurrido, pero no había nadie para ayudar o apoyar a esta familia. Preguntó si estaríamos dispuestos a iniciar un grupo ministerial para latinos en la parroquia de San Maximiliano Kolbe. Acordamos pensarlo y avisarle cuando regresáremos de nuestras vacaciones en Florida en Abril del 2020. El padre estaba decidido a comenzar el grupo, por lo que accedió a darnos tiempo para pensar en asumir la tarea. Llegó el 2020 y acordamos asumir el ministerio. Pero, COVID-19 nos golpeó y no pasó nada hasta 2022. En Abril de 2022, covid se calmaría y comenzamos nuestro ministerio, latino meet and greet. En Abril de 2022, Zaida y yo nos acercamos a todos los que pensábamos que eran latinos en la paroqia de habla espanol.

Les preguntamos si podían reunirse con nosotros en el salón de la iglesia en el nivel inferior. así evolucionó el encuentro y el saludo. Nos reunimos en abril de 2022 por primera vez y comenzamos a hablar con el grupo por qué la iglesia quería que nos reuniéramos y cuáles serían los criterios. nos reunímos un domingo al mes después de la misa de 10:30.Fue perfecto porque la mayoría asistimos a la misa de las 10:30. En nuestra primera reunión decidimos cómo promoveríamos el grupo. Produciremos volantes

y los colocaremos en oficinas de correos y comunidades privadas desde Blakeslee hasta Mount Pocono y en cualquier negocio que nos lo permita. Decidimos enviar correos a todos los miembros de la iglesia con apellidos de sono latino , funcionó muy bien. También conversamos tener oradores para discutir los problemas de la comunidad e invitar a todos los asistentes de la iglesia a compartir con nosotros. Antes del inicio de las reuniones mensuales compartimos café y snacks que suministramos. Nuestras reuniones comienzan con oraciones en español, porque de los miembros del grupo se sienten cómodos . Los nuevos miembros son introducidos al grupo. Luego discutimos las actas de las reuniones de los meses anteriores. Mientras siganos creciendo continuaremos teniendo reuniones siempre que el grupo prospere y los miembros sientan la necesidad de ayudar .Y que los miembros nuevos buscan socializar asistiendo a nuestras reuniones. El padre Sean, Zaida y Yo queremos agradecer a todos los grandes miembros, señoras. señores y niños que asisten y aportan a nuestro grupo. También, queremos agradecer a Juli Reese, quien trabaja con nosotros para hacer nuestros volantes y acomodarnos con las fechas de las reuniones. ENTONCES VENGA UNO, VENGAN TODOS A CONOCER Y SALUDAR OTROS LATINOS. St. Maximlian Kolbe Parish. Pocono Pines Pa. 570-646-6424.

Ray & Zaida Vargas, Ministry Leaders Ruth Isenberg, Contributor

Seth’s Sightings

Winter has arrived both by snowstorm and officially on December 21. The calendar is all well and good, but my snow shovel truly is the tell. So far, it’s been a little here and there with some ice. This last storm though left about a two-inch-thick flow of ice on one end of our sidewalk that stayed through the warm temperatures that led up to New Year’s weekend. My ice melt barely dented the thing, but temperatures approaching 50 made that section of sidewalk re-appear.

Ruth and I enjoyed a couple of Christmas parties hereabouts with one more on the schedule in January (we know, but for the group it works). We hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Christmas.

For that matter also best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year.

Me? Cancer numbers are down and I’ve been given a physical therapy prescription to get me ready for my second major surgery to get mid-January to remove as much of the cancer as can be gotten. The rare cancer I carry spreads cells all around the sac where the organs like the liver, kidneys and spleen are. The cells ooze. It makes for a big tummy, and weight gain. Since I am a big guy, it looks like I’m chubby which is better than looking sick. This cancer is curable, so I’m in for round two, complete with a hospital stay at the Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania (HUP). So Philadelphia here I come. (I promise to write.)

I also plan to watch lots of sports.

The Wilkes-Barre/ Scranton Penguins home games have been fun. Our team is good and plays entertaining hockey. If the big Penguins leave the locals to develop, and not call up our talent, we should be able to compete in a tough division. Next up, January 4 and 6, will be the team from Charlotte here’s to some fun versus the Checkers.

In College hockey, both Penn State men’s and women’s team playing well. I am also following Union College’s teams, where the women’s team has started to shine. The Pittsburgh Penguins are playing very well a highlight reel every game.

As for other sports, we keep tabs on Penn State football, and plan to be near a TV for the Rose Bowl game on January 2. Ruth also wants us to watch some of the Rose Parade. NFL football has us cheering the Eagles. This year’s Patriots team is a dud, and so too the Buccaneers.

Since last I wrote, the Incarnate Word University 1-AA football team went down to defeat in the Fargodome versus another of the great North Dakota State teams, in the semifinals. Here’s to a great season and to next year Go Word! The 1-AA championship game is in Frisco, Texas (glad it’s not

by Seth Isenberg

in the Dakotas), at 2 p.m. on January 8 and on ABC TV.

I’m also now following the UConn Lady Huskies basketball team. This week, GOAT basketball coach Geno Auriemma caught sick, and left the reins to his other head coach, Chris Dailey (who should go into the Hall of Fame with Geno when the time comes).

We did get out to Heckman Orchard on their last day of the season to buy some of the last of their cider. Then continued through Brodheadsville to Gould’s Orchard, just east of town where we bought Stayman apples, and some produce. Gould’s will be open weekends starting after the new year.

As my physical therapy makes me stronger, we plan to return to dog walks through the woods. Bull, our German Shorthair Pointer (named after the character from “Night Court”), has a new winter coat that helps keep him warm. He is older, and gets cold quickly, but he’s aways good for some playing. The only thing that really slowed him were the single digit temperatures we encountered around before Christmas…out, then his business and right back to the door to be let in.

On the day when the temperatures dropped from the high 40s to single digits, Ruth’s Toyota doors

and locks froze. She called me for help: “I can’t get the doors open. I can’t even get the key in the lock.” As a New England native, I remembered that the answer to this problem is alcohol. I do admit that starting with nice strong drink wouldn’t be a bad way to go, but that’s not what I mean. What I mean is to take something like rubbing alcohol from the bathroom and to pour it on the lock and around the door frame. Ruth chose something wintergreen scented. Unfreezing the lock was quick, and the door released after a couple of yanks. And more about dogs…a story was shared with us about someone who was walking their dog this past week. The dog had taken an interest in some of the flat inflatables on a yard that was along their walk. Suddenly, the inflatables began to inflate. The dog freaked, literally peeing itself as it fled to safety behind its master, who was laughing hard. He

ended up having to carry the dog home.

It’s nice to see gasoline prices dropping. Dropping faster would be better, especially for diesel and heating oil. My brother, who lives near South Carolina, sent me a photo with prices in the mid-$2s for gas.

During the cold snap, we sighted an ice fishing hut on a local pond. I remember seeing a lot of them each winter on the lakes near home nice memories.

Other sightings hereabouts include a lot of birds they come to eat the seeds and berries in our yard. We also have lots of deer encounters including a few close calls with the car. There have been more fox, and some turkey. Once we start walking in the woods, we’ll start looking for tracks in the snow.

The only other sighting of note was of one of the ‘feral’ cats who wander out neighborhood, who was sitting on our sidewalk in

Sightings

front of our house as if ‘he’ owned the place. Our dogs thought differently.

The PA Farm Show is coming up the week after New Year’s at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. We’ll take the under twohour drive to attend on January 7 starting earlyafternoon for some opening day fun including the PA Youth Rodeo. It’s a primary high school rodeo with everything from roping to barrel racing, a rodeo clown, and…bull riding. There’s a fee for parking, but admission to the Farm Show itself, and the Youth Rodeo, is free.

To all our readers, a happy and healthy New Year.

Out in the Open Hunting winds down …It’s Show Time!

Alex Zidock

Cold, snow, unusually warm and then cold weather again is what is happening as the last of the major deer hunting seasons wind down. The traditional flintlock rifle season began on December 26 and for most of the state runs until January 16. The late archery deer season also runs until January 16 for most of the state. Check your hunting digest because there are different open/ close dates in the variety of Wildlife Management Units (WMU), and special licenses are required.

Hunting activities continues for small game, ducks and geese and the trapping season for furbearers runs

GUN & KNIFE SHOW

Split Rock Resort Convention Center

www.nmlra.org.

into January, and some trapping seasons even later as the beaver season runs until March 30.

The late flintlock season is very special to many of us who enjoy hunting with muzzleloading rifles that use flint as the ignition system. Cap-lock and in-line rifles, although muzzleloaders, are not allowed in this special season. Also the mandatory use of Fluorescent orange for most of Pennsylvania’s hunting activities is waived during the traditional flintlock season and after Christmas archery season. Get more information posted in the Hunting/Trapping Digest that came with your general hunting license.

It’s Show Time!

The 33rd Early Bird Sports Expo is happening at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds January 27 -30. Go to www.earlybirdexpo.net for information.

The NRA’s Great American Outdoor Show takes place at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg from Saturday, February 4 and runs until February 12. The nine-day event is the largest of its type in the world encompassing hunting, fishing and all outdoors activities including RVs and fishing boats. It’s a family event that features 1,000 exhibitors, speaking events, archery competitions, celebrity ap-

pearances, seminars, demonstration and more. You can get tickets at the door or get more information and advanced tickets by going to the website great americanoutdoorshow.org

Serious turkey hunters will gather at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center in Nashville, TN, for the 50th Annual National Wild Turkey Federation Convention February 15 to 19. Everything that is wild turkey is there. We found if you are going, make hotel reservations early, rooms are at a premium. For information go to nwtf.org.

The Philadelphia Fishing Show takes place at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, Phoenixville from February 18 – 20. For information go to www. phillyfishingshow.com.

My friend Dave Ehrig, also known as Pennsylvania’s “Mr. Blackpowder” with a flintlock rifle and dressed in traditional after-Christmas flintlock deer hunting clothes. Ehrig is also editor of Muzzle Blasts Magazine, the official publication of the National Muzzle Loaders Rifle Association. For information go to

(Photo Alex Zidock)

Efforts underway to save Camp Trexler

by Lori R. Cooper

Camp Trexler, west of Effort near Jonas, has been used as a Boy Scouts camp for 94 years.

Nearly 100 years ago, businessman and outdoorsman Harry Trexler donated 755 acres of springs, wetlands, wildlife and woodlands in Polk Township to be a wilderness camp run by the Boy Scouts. The story told to explain the gift is that businessman Trexler was given a seat on a train by a Boy Scout and therefore wanted to help support the scouting program.

The 755-acre property on Jonas Road may be put up for sale. Camp Trexler could sell for up to $4.5 million,

and proceeds would be used in part to pay obligations of $2.6 million to Boy Scouts

of America for the Victims of Abuse Fund, with the expected contingency that the property still operate as a Boy Scout camp in 2023. Fifteen entities have expressed interest in purchasing the property.

The Boy Scouts of America filed for bankruptcy in 2019 as a result of judgments against in for sexual abuse against scouts. If the bankruptcy is approved, the property could then be sold.

Pocono Heritage Land Trust is in the process of trying to establish partnerships to acquire the property in order to conserve it permanently and keep it open to the public. The organization has focused on protecting land since 1984. The nonprofit is dedicated to protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the Pocono region by conserving land and inspiring people to care for, enjoy and explore

What Rotary is?

Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problemsolvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change –across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

Who Belongs to Rotary?

EVERYONE! You do not need to be a business owner to join Rotary. You just need to have a desire to help your community.

Come check out your local Rotary Club: Blakeslee Rotary Club

We meet the 2nd & 3rd Wednesdays of the month

6:30 p.m. – Century 21, Rt 115, Blakeslee or at local restaurants Contact us at 570-817-9058 (April – President) or april.blakesleerotary@gmail.com Our next meeting will be: Wednesday, November 9

p.m.

Loft

Camp Trexler

their natural world.

Camp Trexler adjoins more than 4,000 acres that PHLT has already protected.

Louise Troutman, executive director of PHLT, whose son attended the camp and is an Eagle

Scout, said, “Camp Trexler is one of the largest remaining parcels of land in Polk Township that has the ability to provide habitat for many animals and has sand springs.” If PHLT were to purchase the land it would be a process of several years. The plan would be to find a partner affiliated with the Minsi Council in order for

it to remain a Boy Scout camp and part of a nature preserve.

Linda Snyder owns 128 acres of land that abuts the property, and she is a board member of PHLT. Part of her land is orchards of apples, peaches and pears. In the past the fruit and homemade apple cider were sold but currently she donates to food banks, as

selling hasn’t been fruitful. In 2022, 90 acres of Snyder’s land were approved for preservation after making applications for eight years. “Every piece of open space everywhere we are losing. It is precious and should be preserved,” said Snyder. She has gone door-to-door with several helpers to get signatures

on a petition to preserve the property and has 1,000 signatures so far. The petition notes: ”Camp Trexler is one of the few remaining properties in our area large enough to provide habitat for plants and animals that need a large, unbroken forest.“

The express goal is to prevent this property from being sold to a developer, used as a transfer station or clear cut.

The Boy Scouts Minsi Trails Council runs Camp Trexler and Camp Minsi in Pocono Summit. It is an independent 501-3c charitable foundation, apart from the national Boy Scouts of America. According to Minsi Trails director Richard Christ, ”We are a local chapter of the Boy Scouts of America national council. We provide scouting programs and services to over 4,000 families in Lehigh, Northampton, Monroe and parts of Carbon and Luzerne Counties along with Warren County, NJ.” Without the council’s involvement, the Boy Scouts of America cannot run a camp.

For further information contact Rick Christ with Minsi Trails Council at richardd.christ@ scouting. org, visit the Minsi Trails Facebook page or support Pocono Heritage Land Trusts efforts by donating at www. phlt.org

Sherman Winter Craftfest returns

Sherman Winter Craftfest returns to the Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg for two days on Saturday, January 14 and Sunday, January 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More than 70 crafters will display their unique creations inside the Sherman Theater. Admission is free so patrons will have more

spending money for those hand-crafted items including woodwork, soaps, jewelry, glass art, chocolates and more.

“We’re very appreciative of all the vendors who come out to make the event what it is. We like to support the artists and the arts community, and when you shop

local, that money stays local. It supports our economy in Monroe County, too,” said Sherman Theater president and CEO Rich Berkowitz.

Vendors who would like to participate can contact Sarah@shermantheater.com or call 570-420-2808 for more information or visit shermantheater.com.

Snow topic at Mt. Pocono council

by Pat Albano

Mount Pocono Borough Council held a combined a work session and special meeting for their final meeting of 2022 on December 20. Council president Don Struckle asked for suggestions on snow removal from businesses and private roads stating, “I want to help businesses downtown that need to get snow [off] the sidewalk.” Some business owners are not meeting deadlines to get snow removed. Borough manager Joshua Walker suggested sending business owners a letter explaining that snow must be removed by a certain time to avoid fines. (Low fines may mean it is cheaper to pay a fine than to shovel the snow.)

Council also discussed the Mount Pocono Municipal Authority (MPMA) about leased office space, with council member Ann Marie Harris stating, “there seems to be a lot of friction between

MPMA and the borough over office space and the fact they did not want to sign a lease. We should get them to stay as long as possible, as they originally wanted to leave in June.” Council member Norm Delano stated, “We should keep the door open on discussion, and have MPMA sign a lease.”

Council member Lori Noonan made a motion to adopt the proposed 2023 General Fund Budget, Street

Improvement Budget [road rehab] and Liquid Fuels Budget, which unanimously passed. Council also considered and passed the following:

Advertising a Tax Ordnance that increases the municipal tax by 1 mil

Approving the estimate from Kingdom Mechanical, the borough’s HVAC contractor, for a bearing assembly and pump coupling in the

See MT. POCONO, page 9

Maple Sugaring Programs for schools, groups and Scouts

Each year the Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center conducts tours of its Maple Sugaring site in Marshalls Creek in February and March for schools, scouts, homeschoolers, and other interested groups. This is a great opportunity to learn about maple sugaring which has been going on in our area for hundreds of years. Twohour tours include stops at stations providing information on the history of maple sugaring, which dates back to the Native Americans, the evaporating process that we use today and provides the groups with the opportunity to tap a maple tree whose sap will be used in the 2023 maple syrup production. Also shown are methods of collecting maple sap, and finally, the cooking process that produces the sweet maple syrup.

Dates this year for organized groups are Mon., Feb. 27 through Fri., March 10. Call 570-629-3061 to schedule. Cost: $5/per participant and scheduling is done on a first-come, firstserve basis.

Scout programs may be scheduled during public day programs on March 4 and 11. Programs can be scheduled between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. and are open to any level of scouts and their families. The day will feature a tour of the Sugar bush including stops to learn about Native American and early pioneer methods of making maple syrup, our evaporator process and methods of identifying and tapping a maple tree. Cost: $6/adult, $4/scouts and children under 12. Registration is required by Wed., Feb. 22.

Liquor license transfer subject of hearing in Tunkhannock Township

by Lori Cooper and Seth Isenberg

The Tunkhannock Township Board of Supervisors’ meeting on December 13 began with a public hearing regarding the transfer of a liquor license to Sonny’s Convenience Store on Route 115 on Effort Mountain at the southwest edge of the township. The plan inside the store is to knock down a wall to create a room where beerto-go will be sold. All rules of the Liquor Control Board must be followed, including asking for ID and limiting beer sales to a 12 pack.

Following an opportunity for public comment on the license transfer - there was none - supervisors voted to approve the transfer of the liquor license, subject to the PA Liquor Board approval.

In regular business, the proposed 2023 budget of $2,231,995, balanced, with no tax increase, was approved.

In the township budget, some money was set aside to provide the Tunkhannock Township Volunteer Fire Department with some gas money to every member who responds to a call (about $5).

Two conditional use re-

quests were approved. One is for Baykal Logistics LLC’s two lots, to be used for a commercial storage building on Route 115, and the other one is also on Route 115 for the Malanyuk family car sales business. The proposed joinder deed for lot 107 and 108 for 274 Shannon Dr. in Tunkhannock Trails for the Royael family was approved, as all taxes have been paid.

Richard Jackson, an alternate on the Zoning Hearing Board, was appointed to a permanent position. The alternate position is now open. Send a letter of interest to the township to volunteer to serve on this board.

A plan of access study for an emergency access gate onto the Interstate from Hellers Lane will be needed.

Who owns the property is

still not determined.

A motion passed to build one beach volleyball court by the Township’s playground. The lease with the Nature Conservancy will need to be updated before the court can be built.

Indian Mountain Lakes Association’s gate revisions will be discussed with Tunkhannock Township’s engineer once IML has a plan to submit.

The township will continue to look into the feasibility of a bike trail to connect to Tobyhanna Township’s, and perhaps at a further date, into Chestnuthill Township. The project may be best with the help of Monroe County.

The Clymer Library, in their report, shared that their tree lighting was successful, attracting a big crowd. On-

going activities include Lego, story time, yoga and book club.

There will be a short reorganization meeting on January 3 at 9 a.m., followed by the regular meeting for January (so no supervisors’ meeting on the 11th).

The planning commission will meet at 4:30 p.m. on January 11, at the township building, to review a proposal from a warehouse developer for their site on Route 115 near Route 903, as well as for other business.

At the township’s February meeting, the Elements music festival at Pocono Raceway will be on the agenda to be discussed. Supervisors are inviting the public to come to air concerns and ideas in advance of creating an ordinance.

Mt. Pocono

Continued from page 8

amount of $2,985. Delano asked about the warranty on the work.

Advertising that the Parks and Recreation Committee will meet in 2023 on every third Thursday at 7 p.m.

Regarding Harvest Fest, Struckle thanked committees and individuals for their hard work, adding, “All Harvest Fest dollars went to 50 needy families.” He thanked everyone for working as a team, saying “You make it easy for me we may have differences at times, but we all have a common understanding.”

Editor’s Note: Please visit pocononewspapers.com for an account of the December 6 Mt. Pocono Council meeting.

Police Beat

12-6, 7:15 p.m., PA State Police – Fern Ridge were called via 9-1-1 to a home in Chestnuthill Twp. where a 15 y/o boy was chasing his mom and an 8 y/o sibling around the home with a knife. PSPStroudsburg also responded. On police arrival, the teen barricaded himself in the basement, and made several threats toward the Troopers while brandishing a large kitchen knife. PSP’s Special Emergency Response Team was called in. The teen was eventually taken into custody without incident. He was taken to St. Luke’s HospitalCarbon for a mental health evaluation, and faces charges for aggravated assault, terroristic threats and related behavior.

11-13, a 55 y/o Effort man had an argument with a 57 y/o woman and slammed a door in her face. PSP-F will charge him with harassment.

11-27, a White Haven area woman was found passed out in her car alongside Interstate 80 in Tobyhanna Twp. She was taken into custody after a breath test indicated intoxication. She banged her forehead on the PSP vehicle’s window and center divider, ‘damaging’ her forehead, and also indicated further self harm. Police took her to the Monroe County DUI Center for a blood draw, and then to SLUH-Bartonsville for treatment and a mental health commitment.

PSP-F was called to a Buck Hill Road, Indian Mountain Lakes, Penn Forest Twp. home to investigate the death of a 44 y/o man on 11-23, at 11:15 p.m. The death was determined to be accidental.

An 85 y/o Penn Forest Streams, Penn Forest Twp.

man was found dead at his home the afternoon of 12-17. PSP is investigating.

PSP was called to the truck parking at the Hickory Run ONVO Plaza for a hit-andrun fender bender between trucks at 2 a.m. on 11-23.

PSP dealt with a handful of fender-benders and rearenders along Route 209 in Brodheadsville, and in store parking lots.

PSP was sent to a home in Chestnuthill Twp. for a dog law violation, 8:13 a.m. 11-15.

State Police cited/fined five area homes for having four or more false alarms in the last 12 months.

Keeping the Rubber Side down

11-7, 8:15 p.m., a 74 y/o Albrightsville man fell asleep while driving on north on Route 115 through Effort, going off the road near Astolat Road, and overturning. He was not hurt.

11-15, 4:51 p.m., a driver westbound on Interstate 80 in Tunkhannock Twp. lost control of her ’07 Infiniti on snowy roads and lost control. The car hit a culvert, then went airborne and into a roll, hitting a tree and rolled again onto its driver’s side before stopping. A witness stopped to give assistance to the now injured driver.

Pocono Mountain Regional EMS and local fire companies responded. The driver was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Pocono for care.

11-19, 2 a.m., a driver of a Ram pickup, heading east on Interstate 80 in Tobyhanna Twp., fell asleep and went off the road into a tree. Neither he nor his passenger were hurt.

There was another asleep at the wheel at 6:27 a.m.

by Seth Isenberg

on 11-22 on I-80 east in Kidder Twp. Car hit a guide rail and was not seriously damaged. PSP sent the driver off with a warning. And another, on the 29th just after 9 a.m., westbound on I-80 in Kidder here the 23 y/o Bangor, PA, driver’s ’14 Elantra went off the road and continued 360 feet before rolling over to stop Rubber Side UP. He was able to get out of the car, and was treated by Lake Harmony Rescue Squad EMS. Lake Harmony Fire Co. assisted PSP.

11-24, just after 3 a.m., a 24 y/o Bear Creek Twp. man in a hurry to get home drove his Honda Civic off the road. He wasn’t hurt. PSP-F sent him on his way with a ticket.

11-26, 11:34 a.m., two out-of-area drivers cutting through Penn Forest Twp. on Route 903 were northbound when the lead vehicle applied his brakes and the

Delaware driver behind him was too close to stop in time. He (Delaware, 20 y/o) was in a Chevy Traverse that sustained disabling damage. The other driver had a Ford F250 and had light bumper damage. The Traverse was towed, and the 20 y/o sent along with a PSP ticket for driving too fast/unsafe speed.

11-28, 6:23 p.m., two locals hit each other while driving in opposite directions on Route 534 in Penn Forest Twp., south of Jonas Mtn. Road. Both claimed the other crossed into their lane. Both vehicles needed a tow, but there were no injuries.

11-30, 6:22 p.m., a Jim Thorpe area man was driving Route 534 in his Chevy Equinox in heavy rain, and his SUV started to hydroplane. The SUV went right off the road into a tree, sustaining fender damage. He was not hurt.

12-7, a 17 y/o driver was ticketed for a rear-ender crash on Route 209 at 7:27 a.m. His ‘09 Audi A4 left a debris field 33 feet long. The ’12 Nissan Xterra he hit had bumper damage. No one was hurt. PSP Trooper Willhardt wrote that the Audi had balding front tires. The teen was issued two tickets, one for speeding/unsafe driving, and the other for those tires.

12-8, 12:01 a.m., an East Stroudsburg woman heading home on Interstate 80 in Kidder Twp. hit a bear with her ’23 Kia Sorrento. She wasn’t hurt.

See POLICE BEAT, page 11

Police Beat

12-9, near 8 a.m., a 27 y/o Penn Forest Twp. man drove his ’11 Subaru off Mckuen Way head on into a tree. He was taken to SLUH-Carbon for treatment of minor injuries, and with a ticket from PSP for driving at an unsafe speed.

The snowstorm on 12-11 caused a few crashes. No one reported hurt.

Stealin’

10-5, a Pocono Mountain West Junior High School student reported losing their wallet while attending an after-school activity in the gymnasium. The wallet contained cash, debit cards, and

personal identification. On 10-6, School Administrators checked with custodial staff and the school resource officer to determine if the wallet had been located or turned in. It was not.

Administrators then reviewed camera footage from within the gymnasium, seeing the student in the bleachers with a friend.

After the event when all the students left, the bleachers were retracted by custodial staff… and a black object was observed on the floor directly underneath where the juvenile had been sitting. The camera footage further shows a custodian finding the object and picking it up. That custodian was later contacted by the school resource officer and when asked if he had found or picked up anything in the gym, he related that he did not find any wallet and then hung up on the officer.

Pocono Mountain Regional Police then learned from the juvenile victim and his father that on October 6, a charge had appeared on one of the debit cards from a nearby ‘gas station’ for $77.81. PMRP learned the card had actually been swiped on October 5. Police reviewed additional camera footage and observed the custodian leave the school without punching out on the evening of October 5, then driving off. He is then observed on camera at the gas station where he purchases gas and lottery tickets. He then immediately returns to the school. The 45 y/o Henryville man has been charged with theft, fraud and related offenses.

11-15, near 1 a.m., an Effort man had tools stolen from his vehicle when it was parked on Wisteria Way near Brodheadsville. Two other

vehicles nearby were also broken into.

11-21, 7:22 p.m., an Effort man went inside the Turkey Hill store in Gilbert, leaving his truck running. A 28 y/o Mt. Union, PA, man got into the truck and drove it off. Police were called and PSPLehighton Troopers located the truck shortly afterwards, and arrested its driver who faces multiple charges.

12-13, PSP received a report of porch pirates stealing a package.

12-18, PSP-F was called to a Key Court, Chestnuthill Twp. property where someone had used the dumpster there to put garbage bags and cardboard without authorization. The thief, a 23 y/o Albrightsville man, was identified and charged with theft of services through the District Court.

There are some fraud and identity theft reports, and one where an adult stole over $2,000 from a teen’s bank account to make online sports bets.

PennDOT

PennDOT crews are now on their winter roads maintenance schedule. Pothole patching will happen as the weather permits.

Drivers should have their vehicles winter-ready (with good winter or all-weather tires), and to be prepared in an emergency where a road closure might mean considerable time waiting, or even being stuck. A kit with snacks and drinks, extra warm blankets /clothes, and the like.

Use www.511PA.com for free to check conditions on 40,000+ miles of PA roads, like traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information with access to 1000+ traffic cameras. It’s also a smartphone application, or by calling 5-1-1.

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Obituaries

RONALD J. ELIAS

Ronald J. Elias, 75, of Pocono Lake, passed away Sunday, December 25, 2022 in Weatherwood Nursing Home, Weatherly.

He was the loving husband of Sandra K. (Searfoss) Elias. They celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary in June.

Born in Rahway, NJ, he was the son of the late William Elias and the late Ruth (Durland) Elias.

Ronald was an avionics repairman at the Tobyhanna Army Depot for 33 years. He was rewarded several times for his ideas as part of the Army Depot suggestion program which led to saving the government large amounts of money over the years. He was also a Vietnam War Air Force veteran.

Ronald was a very active and involved member of the Pocono Lake Wesleyan Church. He was also active

with the Wesleyan Church Bible Bowl Team, where he traveled around the tri-state area competing. He was an avid shooter, collector, and sportsman. Most of all, he was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all his friends and family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Daryl Elias and his wife Abigail, and Ryan Elias and his wife Maureen; a brother, William “Roger” Elias; and three grandchildren, Evan, Shane, and Wesley Elias.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, December 31, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Pocono Lake Wesleyan Church. Funeral services will follow at 11:30. Burial will follow in Mt. Rest Cemetery, Pocono Lake.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pocono Lake Wesleyan Church, 203 Spur Road, Pocono Lake, PA 18347.

The Kresge Funeral Home, Brodheadsville, is in charge of the arrangements.

DECEMBER, 2022

JAMES LANEY JONES JR.

James Laney Jones, Jr., 96, of Tobyhanna, died on December 18, 2022, in his home. He was the husband of the late Everlina (Lomax) Jones, with whom he shared 66 years of marriage at the time of her death on January 4, 2016.

Born on January 2, 1926, in Monroe, NC, he was the son of Frances (Laney) and James Jones, Sr.

During WWII, Mr. Jones served in the Pacific Theater on the USS Rochambeau. After his discharge, he worked at the Holabird Signal Depot in Baltimore. In 1954 he was transferred to the Tobyhanna Army Depot. He retired as an electronics technician and supervisor in 1988.

He was a member of the Tobyhanna United Methodist Church, where he served as a deacon and was a past president of the men’s group. He was a past master of the Gideon Lodge #145 F&AM and a member of VFW Post No. 509.

Surviving are two sons, Weldon Andre Jones (Debbie Feldman Jones) of Baltimore, MD and Brian Wendell Jones (Linda Hubbard) of Tobyhanna;

two grandchildren, Elizabeth A. Hubbard of Tobyhanna and Benjamin S.S. Jones of Washington, D.C.; and a niece, Sylvia Mosley of Dayton, OH.

A service was held December 28 in Stroudsburg. Entombment followed in the Mountainview Mausoleum at Prospect Cemetery in East Stroudsburg.

A celebration of his life will take place on Monday, January 2, which would have been his 97th birthday. The memorial service, at the Tobyhanna United Methodist Church, will begin at 2 p.m.

The family requests that memorial remembrances be made to the church at P.O. Box 65, Tobyhanna, PA 18466.

CARMEN MERCADO

Carmen (Rojas) Mercado, 87, of Mount Pocono, passed away on Thursday, December 15, 2022 in her home. Born in Guayama, Puerto Rico, she was the daughter of the late Vicente and Margarita (Colon) Rojas.

Carmen was the beloved wife of the late Cesar Mercado. She was a radiologist for many years.

Carmen will be lovingly remembered by her nephew, Cesar Suarez.

Private cremation services will take place at the convenience of the family.

Bolock Funeral Home, Cresco, was in charge of arrangements.

ANNE MacMASTER FEES

Anne MacMaster Fees, born December 4, 1957, peacefully went to be with our Lord on December 16, 2022 surrounded by her family in their home. Anne leaves behind her loving husband Howard J. Fees lll, her beloved 4 children Michael Peacock, Jenna Peacock, Grayson Peacock and Katherine Christman, her son-in-law Jeffery Christman as well as her 5 cherished grandchildren Nicholas Meckes, Michael Peacock, Ayden Peacock,

Mackenzie Christman and Joeylnn Christman.

Anne was a lover of family gatherings, family pets, bird watching and gardening. She will be greatly missed by all family and friends.

A celebration of life gathering will be scheduled on a later date at the convenience of the family.

The Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209 Brodheadsville, is in charge of arrangements.

www.kresgefuneralhome. com

Obituaries

Wanda L. (Bisbing) Altemose, 85, of Mt. Pocono, passed away Friday evening, December 16, 2022, at Chandler Estates in Wind Gap. She was the wife of Robert Altemose with whom she shared 64 years of marriage.

Born January 18, 1937 in East Stroudsburg, she was a daughter of the late David C. and Arvilla (Keiper) Bisbing and was a lifetime resident of Monroe County.

She was a 1954 graduate of Stroudsburg High School and in earlier years worked at the Pocono Record, Pocono Manor Inn accounting office and Northeastern Pennsylvania Bank (now PNC) in Mt. Pocono. Later she was secretary to the superintendent of Pocono Mountain School District from where she retired in 1999 after 25 years of service.

Wanda was an 80 plus year member of the Mt. Pocono United Methodist Church where she was a member and soloist of the Chancel Choir for many years, past member of the Senior Bell Choir, former Sunday School teacher, past secretary of the Administrative Council, was a Lay Reader and

WANDA L. ALTEMOSE

volunteered in the Finance Office.

She enjoyed singing, walking, reading, swimming and writing poetry; was an artist and an avid Phillies fan; and traveled to 20 plus countries.

Throughout the years she was very active in community service having served on the Borough of Mt. Pocono Planning Commission from 1972-1979, Borough of Mt. Pocono Civil Service Commission from 1979-1989, as Borough of Mt. Pocono Councilwoman and Vice President from 1992-1996 with a total of 21 years of volunteer service to the borough, past president of the Monroe County Association of Educational Office Personnel, Executive Board and Area Representative of the Pennsylvania Association of Educational Secretaries/ Office Personnel, past president and Life Member of Pocono Mountain Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary, past secretary of Pennsylvania Association School RetireesMonroe County Chapter, Life Member of Order of the Eastern Star Monroe Chapter #99, past cochair of Mt. Pocono area American Cancer Society Daffodil Days, recipient of 1998 Pocono Mt. Chamber of Commerce Secretary of the Year Award, recipient of 2001-2002 Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees (Monroe Chapter) Outstanding Volunteer of the Year award, member of Pocono Mt. Community Chorus of Churches, Pocono Vocal Locals and Pocono

Summer Chorus, recognized in 2009 for Monroe County Board of Elections PA Voter Hall of Fame with the 50 plus years record, past Den Mother for Boy Scouts of America, and former member of Pocono Arts Council and Pocono Mt. Arts Council.

In addition to her husband, surviving are two children, Randy Altemose of Mt. Pocono and Sandy Jo Evans and husband Dale of Virginia; five grandchildren, Jesse Evans, Mindy Altemose, Justin Evans, Melissa Altemose and Megan Altemose; four great-grandchildren, Warner, Whitney and Walter Visconti, and Robert Evans; a sister, Shirley Lansdowne and husband Robert of Mt. Pocono; a niece, Mara Lansdowne Reed of Reading; three nephews, David Lansdowne of Mt. Pocono, Dennis and Douglas Litzenburg; and a great niece, Brittany Frey Walters of Durham.

She was preceded in death by a niece, Sharon (Altemose) Frey; and two nephews, William Altemose and Dean Litzenberger.

Services were held December 27, from the Mt. Pocono United Methodist Church with Rev. Jennifer Miller officiating.

As per her wishes, her body was donated to science through the Humanity Gifts Registry.

In lieu of flowers - live kindly, honestly and humbly; be of service every day; and/ or donate to the Mt. Pocono United Methodist Church or Pocono Mountain Volunteer Fire Company.

CESAR PIERANTONI

Cesar Omar Pierantoni, 51, of Tobyhanna, passed away on Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at St. Luke’s Hospital Monroe. Born in Brooklyn, New York he was the son of Teresa (Yara) Pierantoni and the late Cesar Pierantoni. Cesar was the husband of Christi-Ann (Turgeon) Pierantoni.

Cesar enjoyed playing video games and above all

loved spending time with his beloved daughter.

In addition to his mother, Teresa, and wife, Christi, Cesar will be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Brianna Aiko Pierantoni, and his brother, Ivan Pierantoni. Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Bolock Funeral Home, Cresco, was in charge of arrangments.

JOSEPH DAMATO

Joseph Damato, 87, of Blakeslee, passed away on Tuesday, December 13, 2022. Born in Brooklyn, New York he was the son of the late Michael and Jenny (Desantis) Damato. He was the beloved husband of Caroline (Mancuso) Damato.

Joe worked as a draftsman for many years. In his earlier years he truly enjoyed drawing.

In addition to his wife, Caroline, Joe will be

lovingly remembered by his sons, James Febbriao and his wife Jessica, Joseph Febbriao, and John Febbriao and his wife Maidah; daughter, Lisa Damato; grandchildren, Nicole Carver and her husband Charles, Dominic Febbriao, Brianna Febbriao, Vincent Febbriao and Gianni Febbriao; and greatgrandchild, Celeste Carver.

Bolock Funeral Home, Cresco, was in charge of arrangments.

BRIAN JOHNSON

Brian Johnson, 85, of Pocono Summit passed away in his home on Monday, December 19, 2022. Born in New York, New York he was the son of the late Harry and Loretta (Costello) Johnson. Brian was the beloved husband of Ingrid (Halfmann) Johnson.

He honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. Brian worked for the New York City Fire Department for 21 years. He also was the co-owner and operator of Handyman Rental Center and the Party Shack.

Brian was a member of the Knights of Columbus as well as Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

In addition to his wife, Ingrid, Brian will be lovingly

remembered by his daughter, Christine Ducey and her husband Matthew; sons, Kevin Johnson and his wife Susan and Thomas Johnson and his wife Kelly; sister, Kathleen Frank; brother, Kenneth Johnson and his wife Estelle; grandchildren, Christopher, Cameron, Stephen, Kaitlin, Patrick, Jenny, Sarah and Emily; great grandchildren, Gavin, Ella and Faye and nieces and nephews, Diana, Christopher, Renee, Denise, Christel and Udo.

A memorial mass took place December 27, in Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cresco.

Bolock Funeral Home, Cresco, was in charge of arrangements.

Obituaries

GERALDINE FAUSER

Geraldine “Gerry” Jueline (Gates) Fauser, 85, of Tobyhanna, passed away on Thursday, December 22, 2022 at Lehigh Valley Hospital Pocono. Born in Queens, New York she was the daughter of the late Mary (Ahern) Gates. Gerry was the beloved wife of the late Peter J. Fauser.

Throughout the years Gerry worked for various retail stores and most recently was a lunch lady at Pocono Mountain West High School. Above all, Gerry was a hard worker who enjoyed spending time with her loved ones.

Gerry will be lovingly remembered by her sister, Jacqueline Ryan and her

Stephen J. Reed, 86, of Sciota, passed away Friday, December 23, 2022 in St. Luke’s Hospital-Bethlehem.

He was the loving husband of the late Marie Rose (Camilleri) Reed. They celebrated 61 wonderful years of marriage together before her passing in 2020.

Born in East Stroudsburg, he was the son of the late Ferman Harry Reed and the late Maude (Stofflet) Reed.

Stephen was a pastor at New Covenant World Outreach in Brodheadsville. He and his wife pastored togeth-

husband Gerard; nieces, Carol Ryan and her partner Mary, Kelly Ryan and her husband Phil, Stephanie Delgado and her fiancé Patrick, Ceallaigh Thorne and her fiancé Drew, Courtney Thorne, Sharon Ryan and Haleigh Hill and nephew John Thorne; and a host of many beloved relatives. In addition to her husband, Peter, Gerry is preceded in death by two sisters and one brother; nephews, John Ryan, Thomas Foster and Edward Foster and niece, Debra Rossano and her husband Frank.

A prayer service took place December 29, in the Bolock Funeral Home, Cresco.

STEPHEN J. REED

er and were both involved in ministry for many years. He was also an Army veteran. Stephen was a handyman and always enjoyed building and fixing things, and he was very artistic and creative. Most of all, he was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all his friends and family.

He is survived by a son, Steven Reed and his wife Alicia of Broken Arrow, OK; two daughters, Annmarie Bell of Sciota, and Paula

CHARLES J. SMITH

Charles J. Smith, 70, of Kunkletown, graduated into the presence of God and the glory of Heaven on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Bethlehem, surrounded by his wife and children.

He is survived by his wife and best friend Mary, and their children, daughter Kristin, son Adam and wife Brette (nee Simmons), daughter Darlene and husband James Dierkes, son Luke and wife Shanna (nee Hughart; 8 grandchildren, Norah, Everette, Susannah, Liam, Nathan, Charlotte, Marlow and Maisy.

His surviving siblings are Susan Aull, Sara Coder, Anne and husband Mike Simeone, Gregory and his partner Laurie Reische, John and his partner Jackie Hurd, many nieces, nephews, great

nieces, great nephews and extended family members.

He is predeceased by his father and mother, Edwin and Phyllis Smith, brother Edwin, sister Mary, sister Margaret and brother-in-law James Coder.

Charlie was a NYC Steamfitter for 50 years as well as being former coowner of Victor’s Stationery & Candy Store in the Throggs Neck section of the Bronx where he was born and raised.

Services were held December 27 at William H. Kresge Funeral Home, Brodheadsville.

In iieu of flowers you can make a donation in Charlie’s name to the Polk Township Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 103 Kresgeville, PA 18333.

DONALD H. REESE JR.

Donald H. Reese, Jr., 65, of Long Pond, passed away December 15, 2022, at the Lehigh Valley Hospice HousePocono in East Stroudsburg. He was the husband of Dorothy (LaBar) Reese, his soul mate of 40 years.

He was a son of Ann (Sutton) Reese of Shippensburg and the late Donald H. Reese.

He lived in Monroe County for most of his life and was a cabinet maker by trade having worked for several shops and businesses throughout the area.

Surviving are three children, Cody, Krae and Cole; and a sister, Ruth Ann Grasley and husband Steve of Shippensburg.

As per his wishes, there will be no services at this time.

GEORGE BARUKA

Gallagher of Saylorsburg; a sister, Miriam Steffensen and her husband Ernie of NY; 10 grandchildren, Gabriel Reed, Moriah Reed, Corey Gallagher, Andrew Gallagher, Samara Gallagher, Ryan Gallagher, Shawn Gallagher, Sharaya Bell, Kodey Bell, and Cierra Bell. He was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Kevin Gallagher.

A memorial gathering will be held on a later date at the convenience of the family.

The Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209, Brodheadsville, is in charge of the arrangements.

More online

Because of an extended print schedule, older obituaries for Ramon Nazario, Joyce Leota Gerrette, Neukeyia Rosshell Change, Eva Marie Jabbour, Rina Hansen and Sebastiano Vasta can be found at pocononewspapers.com

George Baruka, 87 of Tobyhanna passed away in his home on Thursday, December 15, 2022. Born in Minersville, he was the son of the late Peter and Julia (Keitsock) Baruka. George was the beloved husband of the late Dolores (Zukowski) Baruka.

George honorably served his country in the United States Army. He worked for General Motors for many years.

George enjoyed playing fast pitch softball for the General Motors League and also was a baseball coach. He was passionate about polka music and dancing.

George was an active member of St. Thomas the Apostle of Rahway New Jersey. He participated and organized many church activities over the years.

George was also a member of Most Holy Trinity of Cresco.

George will be lovingly remembered by his son,

David Baruka and wife Elizabeth; daughters, Carol Nickel, Jane Banasiak and Lynn Denisco-Baruka; brother, Joseph Baruka; grandchildren, Dana LaSalvia and husband Joseph, Jeff Slockbower and wife Jennifer, Greg Baruka and wife Krystal, Jonathon Nickel, Taylor Denisco, Raymond Denisco and Nicolas Denisco and great grandchildren, Thomas LaSalvia, Ryan LaSalvia, Logan Slockbower and Cade Slockbower. George is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dolores and his brother, Paul Baruka.

A funeral took place December 21in the Bolock Funeral Home, Cresco. Interment was at Holy Name Cemetery of Jersey City, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to VFW Post 3448, 119 VFW Dr, Tobyhanna, PA 18466.