Journal of the Pocono Plateau/Journal of Penn-Kidder, December 2024 by canwinjournal

of the POCONO PLATEAU & PENN-KIDDER

The gifts from the Giving Tree at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish are strewn about the church’s narthex as (from left) Dorota Nowak, the parish Giving Tree coordinator, Juli Reese, parish office manager, and Fr. Paschal Mbagwu, parish administrator show delight with the response of the parish to the program.

Spreading the love with the Giving Tree

by Fran Odyniec

The call went out at all masses in early November that St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish would again participate in the Giving Tree gift program annually sponsored by the Top of the Mountain Ecumenical Council (TOMEC) headquartered at the Five Loaf House in Pocono Pines. And St. Maximilian’s parishioners answered.

A “Giving Tree” was set up in the church’s narthex to attract the attention of worshipers attending the three weekend masses. Instead of traditional tree decorations, 85 index cards with a child’s first name, age (17 or younger), type of clothing and size, gender, and tracking number were tied with ribbon to the tree’s branches. By the Sunday, December 1 deadline, all 85 cards had

been replaced with more than 85 gifts wrapped in a blaze of color, strewn at the foot of the tree and around the narthex. The gifts, each tagged with one of those 85 index cards, were delivered by the parish’s Giving Tree Coordinator Dorota Nowak to the Five Loaf House on Tuesday morning, Dec. 3. The gifts were part of TOMEC’s six-congregation effort to reach 263 children

DEP hosting hearing for proposed Coolbaugh warehouse project

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will host a public hearing to take testimony from the public regarding an application by Orchard BJK Company, LLC (Orchard) out of Wyomissing, PA for a Water Obstruction and Encroachment permit for the proposed Pocono Mountains Corporate

Center North Warehouse in Coolbaugh Township. The hearing will take place on Tuesday, December 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Tobyhanna Elementary Center, located at 398 Old Route 940, Pocono Pines. Representatives from DEP and the Monroe County Conservation District will be in attendance.

See WAREHOUSE, page 3

A ribbon cutting celebrated the grand opening of the Kevin Kendall State Farm Insurance Agency in the Pine Point Plaza on November 13. Shown from left at the official opening sponsored by the Carbon County Chamber of Commerce are Kylie Adams, Catherine Bente, Claudia Morales, Ed Sorton, Kevin Kendall (cutting ribbon), Jennifer Gilbert, Tina Ackerman, Mimma Korte, Susan Miller, John Jefferson, Robert Loughlin, and Jim Smith. Photo by John B. Stoj

Giving Tree

Continued from page 1

in 115 families in Tobyhanna Township and surrounding communities.“Each congregation sets its own quota,” explained Kim Bray, “Giving Tree” coordinator at TOMEC, who was busy checking in the gifts from St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish. “St. Max does twice as much as any of the congregations,” Bray added.

“‘Giving Tree’ is a great opportunity for the parish to get together for a community outreach especially at this time of year,” said Juli Reese, parish office manager at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish. “It gets our families, children, grandparents and people who don’t have children involved in the spirit of giving.”

“It’s very important that parishioners are aware that their gifts are not going to a business but rather directly to kids,” added Nowak.

She further explained that the Giving Tree is just what it is. “It is an ideal way to give a child a gift and we are thrilled to help our community along with the churches in TOMEC at a time when giving means so much.”

After all the gifts from the congregations have been dropped off and checked in at Five Loaf House, distribution takes place

The gifts from St. Maximillian Kolbe Parish arrived at the Five Loaf House in Pocono Pines with (from left) Kim Bray, TOMEC Giving Tree coordinator, Chuck Lawrence, director of the Food Pantry at TOMEC, and Dorota Nowak, Giving Tree coordinator at St. Max on a cold Dec. 3.

during Food Pantry days December 9 and 10. The Food Pantry program is run by TOMEC. Tracking numbers on each of the index cards tagged to the gifts make sure that the right family gets the right gift.

“Families in the Food Pantry program register for the “Giving Tree” between August and October and are given their tracking number,” Bray said, “in addition to listing their child’s first name, age, type of clothing and size, and gender.”

Chuck Lawrence, director of the Food Pantry, emphasized an important aspect of “Giving Tree.”

“The names of people giving the gifts are not put on the gifts,” Lawrence said, “so that the kids see that they are

receiving the gifts from their parents.”

He added that the total of 263 kids receiving gifts “makes this our highest year in terms of numbers.”

When family members pulled into the parking lot at the Five Loaf House on the mornings of December 9 and 10, volunteers directed them to their food pick up and then to a drive-thru window where they received their gift from the Giving Tree, “just in time for Christmas,” added Bray. “It’s what Christmas is all about, helping those who need help and spreading the love.”

Just ask the parishioners at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish.

PUBLIC NOTICE

2025 PMR EMS Board of Directors Meeting Schedule

January, 1/23/2025

February, 2/27/2025

March, 3/27/2025

April, 4/24/2025, May, 5/22/2025

June, 6/26/2025

July, 7/24/2025

August, 8/28/2025

September, 9/25/2025

October, 10/23/2025

November*, 11/20/2025

December*, 12/18/2025

*Holiday Schedule

Warehouse

Continued from page 1

Orchard plans to construct a 333,000 square foot warehouse located at the intersection of Memorial Boulevard (SR611) and Laurel Drive.

DEP received the permit application on July 26, 2024, and deemed it administratively complete on August 9, 2024. The public comment period for the permit ended on September 24, 2024, during which requests were received from the public for the public hearing. The hearing will allow the public to comment on the plans associated with the permit application that proposes discharges to Hawkey Run and Duck Puddle Run, which are

both considered HighQuality Cold-Water Fisheries, and separate exceptional value wetlands.

DEP requests that individuals wishing to testify at the hearing submit a written notice of intent to Colleen Connolly, Regional Communications Manager at coconnolly@ pa. gov.

DEP will accept requests up to the day of the hearing. DEP requests that individuals limit their testimony to 5 minutes so that all individuals have the opportunity to testify. DEP can only review comments made related to the Water Obstruction and Encroachment Permit Application. Written copies of oral testimony are requested. All comments, whether delivered orally during the hearing or

submitted in writing will carry equal weight and consideration with DEP. Individuals attending the hearing will have the opportunity to testify if they so desire; however, individuals who preregister to testify will be given priority on the agenda.

Persons with a disability who wish to testify and require an auxiliary aid, service or other accommodation should contact Colleen Connolly at coconnolly@pa.gov or the Pennsylvania Hamilton Relay Service at (800) 6545984 (TDD) to discuss how DEP can meet their needs.

The Water Obstruction and Encroachment Joint permit application documentation and conceptual plans are available for review at the Monroe County

Conservation District Office, 8050 Running Valley Road, Stroudsburg, PA at (570) 629-3060 and/or the DEP Northeast Regional Office, 2 Public Square, WilkesBarre, PA at (570) 826-2511. For further information, contact Colleen Connolly, Regional Communications Manager for the Department’s

Northeast Regional Office at (570) 826-2035 or at coconnolly@pa.gov

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s website, or follow DEP on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or LinkedIn.

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Clymer Library December activities

BookBabies

Storytime (December 19 @ 10:30 a.m.)—A half-hour drop-in story time session for babies through preschool with a mix of songs, rhymes, stories, and a simple craft.

WeeBuild STEM playtime (December 19 @ 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.)—An hour of interactive time for building and imaginative

play using wood blocks, characters, animals, cars, and assorted other building kits.

Distance Learners’ HUB-CLUB (December 17)—A separate Elf Workshop opportunity for homeschool/cyber schoolaged children to create a gift for someone else. Gift options include a decoupage plaque, a woven or beaded

Friends of Clymer holding annual holiday boutique

The Annual Holiday Boutique at Clymer Library’s continues through December 18. Choose from a wide assortment of holiday decorations and gift items suitable for parents, children, friends and teachers.

All proceeds from the sale will benefit the Clymer

Library. Clymer Library is located at 115 Firehouse Road, Pocono Pines. Hours are Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information email friendsofclymer library@gmail.com

bracelet, and a tiled votive jar. Registration is required. Friday, December 6, was our annual Christmas Tree Lighting, sponsored by

the Bruce, Trudi, and Sarah Denlinger Fund. Tuesday, December 17, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. is our Open Mic Night.

Registration is required. Please call the library and ask for Dakota if you are interested in performing.

Clymer Library is thankful for its Friends

October was National Friends of the Library Month and Clymer Library in Pocono Pines loves their Friends group. A proclamation from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania was obtained

from Jack Rader’s office, and the Board of Trustees presented it to Friends at the monthly meeting on October 24.

Friends is a volunteer organization whose mission is to support and serve the

local library community. Over the past few years, Friends of Clymer Library has held many outstanding events and have contributed to improvements and enhancements in a big way. They have purchased items like an advertising sandwich board, rolling book carts, a Christmas tree to replace one destroyed in a flood, furniture for the young adult gaming area, computers, fireproof door, window repairs. They organized a Boy Scout project which resulted in a recycled book bench from Weis Markets. Friends also sponsored community programs such as the 2023 Mac and Cheese Bakeoff, authors and

historical programs, musical events, and Paint and Sip, Recently, Friends held a poster contest for students at Tobyhanna Elementary Center. Close to 50 students in grades 2 to 6 submitted hand drawn posters related to the theme “My Favorite Place to Read.” Awards were given to the winners at each grade level, and art supplies were donated by Friends to every participant. The posters were displayed in the Library Community Room.

One of the largest contributions from Friends was their recent collaboration with Erb’s Landscaping to build a permanent ADA compliant Story Walk on the Clymer

campus. Now we have a beautiful garden bed, road sign and lighting, as well as a lovely place to walk and read the posted book pages on the Story Walk stanchion. This long awaited project was paid for by the Friends.

“We are very grateful for the hard work and generosity of our Friends group, and we thank them for their constant support,” said Library Director Melissa Lopez.

If you want more information about Friends of Clymer Library and the volunteer opportunities that are available, please visit our website www.clymerlibrary. org and look for the drop down button for Friends.

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

Friends of Clymer representative Phyllis Miller, left, and Melissa Lopez, Clymer Library Director.

Protecting Clean Water Together Who’s in charge of your water?

by Carol Hillestad for Brodhead Watershed Association

Pure, safe drinking water is essential, one of the few things in life that is truly indispensable. If you live in the Brodhead Watershed, you very likely get your water from your own well.

That’s the good news with a well, the person is charge is you. It’s also the bad news, because you’re probably not a water quality expert. And unless your water looks or smells really funky, you probably think everything’s fine.

It could very well be fine, and it very like is! But really nasty bugs like coliform

bacteria don’t necessarily affect the look, smell, or taste of your water. The only way to be sure is to have your well tested.

One surprising factor in the health or otherwise of your well water is the land around you and upstream from you. For instance, land that is kept natural, protected from being paved over or developed, helps keep groundwater pure and uncontaminated. That means that beautiful stretches of land state gamelands, public open space, and privately conserved land are more than just delightful natural views we enjoy every day. They contribute to safe drinking

water for everyone.

So does our local land trust. Pocono Heritage Land Trust has conserved over 5,000 acres, a lot of it in our watershed.

If you’ve never had your well tested or the last time was years ago it’s just prudent to have it done, even if it smells fine and tastes great. If you’ve noticed changes in taste, odor, or appearance, make testing a priority. Even if it seems okay, get it tested anyway if there’s been construction activity anywhere near your well recently, or someone in your household is pregnant or you have an infant. You can live without food for three weeks or more.

Without water, it’s three days. So take charge! Get your well tested.

Brodhead Watershed Association protects water quality and quantity throughout our area. Get involved! Become a member! www.brodheadwatershed.

org

For more information

For detailed information on water testing in Pennsylvania, go to https://

www.dep.pa.gov/Citizens/ My-Water/PrivateWells/ Pages/Water-Testing.aspx

Home inspection firms often provide well testing services. A Monroe County lab that does water testing is ABE Laboratories. State and local regulators recommend both water testing and well inspections every one to three years or more frequently if you suspect contamination due to changes in taste, odor, or appearance.

HAZLETON • PHILADELPHIA

How a 2024 alum is applying what she learned at Muhlenberg to preserve open space

by Emma Northrop

At Muhlenberg, Anna Shigo ‘24, of Jim Thorpe, was always busy. In addition to double majoring in environmental science and sustainability studies, Shigo served on the President’s Committee on Sustainability, was involved in Greek Life and interned with Dining Services, helping to organize the hydroponic garden and Weigh the Waste program.

Shigo’s current position as Carbon County’s open space coordinator arose due to a 2022 ballot where residents approved spending up to $10 million on open space preservation. Passionate about the environment, Shigo never expected to find a job so tailored to her interests close to home. However, her busy (but fruitful) time at Muhlenberg gave her the confidence to take it on.

What drew you to the position as Carbon County’s open space coordinator?

Shigo: “I had just been job searching since before graduation. I wasn’t even looking in Carbon County, because I didn’t think there would be anything for me. We had feelers out everywhere, and one of my dad’s friends said, ‘I think [I found] a job that your daughter can do.’ I looked at it, and I was like,’Oh my gosh, this is so cool! I can’t believe they’re even doing something like this.’ Right away, I put my application

in.”

When you started your position, did you feel prepared?

“I felt prepared by Muhlenberg in the way that I was super willing to learn what I needed to know. When the information that I needed to learn was given to me, I could [use] that effectively while I work. My first two weeks I was just given files and books and papers,

and I’ve just been reading them. [It’s like I’m] back to school, but I’m at work!”

What did you learn at Muhlenberg that you now use?

“Critical thinking and time management skills, definitely. I was involved with a few different extracurricular activities, and almost any of those [activities] at Muhlenberg will teach you how to

work with people with different perspectives and backgrounds than you. That’s a skill that I know I’ll carry with me all throughout life, and I’ll definitely be using here.”

What’s your advice for Muhlenberg students interested in environmental science or sustainability, or for Muhlenberg students in general?

“For environmental science students, my advice would be to take

every class that interests you and get involved with extracurriculars - those that are very envi-sci involved or not. They’ll help you broaden your perspective, learn new things and challenge yourself in ways you didn’t know you were capable of. [And, when it comes to finding a job after college,] you’ll end up where you want to be. Don’t feel the need to do something you don’t think will make you happy.”

Dan Walker, owner

Heffley named Republican Chairman of House Human Services Committee

State Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) today announced he has been selected to serve as Republican chairman of the House Human Services Committee for the 2024-25 Legislative Session. This is the second consecutive session he has held this position.

“It is a great privilege to be re-appointed as the Republican Chairman of the Human Services Committee,” Heffley said. “Having served on this committee throughout my time in the Legislature, I have witnessed the positive impact we can have, from leading efforts like the opioid task force to addressing the challenges of overprescribing, to ensuring that our most vulnerable citizens have access to the critical care and support they need.

“I remain committed to making certain taxpayer dollars are used responsibly, and I will continue to root out any waste or fraud that threaten the integrity of our programs. I am excited to build on our past successes and collaborate across party lines to create fair and effective regulations for the Commonwealth. While

I am committed to working together to improve services for all Pennsylvanians, if issues arise that conflict with our core values or that we cannot support, I will oppose them. We will focus on practical solutions that meet the needs of our communities while ensuring efficiency and accountability in the process.”

The House Human Services Committee oversees issues within the Department of Human Services and the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs. Additionally, the committee plays a key role in shaping legislation related to mental health, drug and alcohol crises, and the heroin and opioid overdose epidemic, working to prevent these dangerous substances from falling into the wrong hands. The committee will continue holding hearings on the delivery of human services across the Commonwealth, addressing the challenges faced by individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities, as well as those in need of mental health and substance abuse treatment.

Christmas Eve at Pocono Lake United Methodist Church

Christmas Eve will be celebrated at Pocono Lake UMW on Tuesday, December 24, at 7 p.m. The service will include favorite Christmas carols, select readings from the Bible that depict the birth of Jesus, a candle lite singing of “Silent Night” and the lighting of the Christ candle. Everyone is invited to attend this

joyous and meaningful service.

Pocono Lake United Methodist Church is located on Route 940 between Pocono Pines and Blakeslee. For more information, call the church 570-646-2650.

You can learn all about the church at www.poconolakeumc.org or on Facebook.

The Minty Miler scheduled for Penn Forest Park

The Minty Miler is scheduled for Saturday, December 14, 1-2 p.m. at Penn Forest Park.

Run or walk the gravel path around the Penn Forest Park right outside of scenic Jim Thorpe for this race.

The Minty Miler is a family friendly holiday running and walking party.

Pre-registration is recommended but there will be same day registration

Out in the Open

from 12-1 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the local library.

Registration is $30.

Race Format: 1 hour, accurately timed race. Run as far as you can in the 1 hour time limit. You must complete all laps for them to count. Any partially completed laps when time runs out will not be counted toward your total. You can stop at any point, but you

must check in with the race director if you are stopping before the end of the time limit. The race will start promptly at 1 and end at 2 p.m.

Course: Gravel path around the Penn Forest Park right outside of scenic Jim Thorpe. There is no traffic to contend with while running. The path is a closed .87 mile loop, with 21 ft of elevation gain/loss per lap.

Aid: There will be an aid station at the start/finish line stocked up with water, hot chocolate, snacks, and of course, minty treats.

Awards: Top Male and Female awards, as well as male and female age group awards for both runners and walkers. Age groups: 10 and under, 11-18, 19-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60, 61-70, 71+

Swag: A custom minty miler blanket, while supplies

last, age group ornament awards and overall winner awards.

Proceeds: A portion of the proceeds will be donated to The Dimmick Memorial Library of Jim Thorpe

This event is rain, snow, or shine.

Additional race information can be found at https://runsignup.com/ Race/PA/JimThorpe/ TheMintyMiler.

Make your own, shoot better, save money

by Alex Zidock, Jr.

If you have the posthunting blues and can’t wait for trout season to open, you can fill those in-between recreational hours by reloading your metallic cartridges. It’s easy, it’s fun, it can be a family activity, and there’s a lot of support to get you started.

You can call it handloading or reloading, but it’s the same process. “I call it handloading because it’s a hands-on process,” says James Meola, President of the Blue Ridge Cherry Valley Rod and Gun Club (BRCV-RG) in Sciota and avid handloader. In addition to Meola, several other

members of the BRCVRG club are well-versed in reloading and offer help to beginners. Meola also conducts classes for beginners at Buck Hill Firearms in Cresco.

“I handload because I’m a competition shooter, and I want to match my ammunition so I’m sure every bullet is exactly the same,” he says. While commercially produced ammunition is good quality, and the average target shooter or hunter will barely notice the difference if one bullet hits its mark an inch away from the last, the competition shooter wants to make sure if that happens, it’s not the fault of the ammunition.

“While I shoot many more rounds than the average hunter or target shooter, there are big savings in handloading your own ammunition,” Meola says. While the initial cost of purchasing the equipment could be from a couple hundred dollars to more, once the investment is made, significant savings will be

had. “For example, I shoot a lot of .44-40 ammunition, and a box of 50 rounds costs about $125.00. I can reload that box for about $5.00,” he adds.

Most companies produce single-stage presses for beginners and those who only want to reload smaller amounts of cartridges. Most See OUT IN THE OPEN, page 11

Lois Schlachter, an abstract expressionist, gave a glimpse into the world of abstraction at the November meeting of the Pocono Mountains Art Group. PMAG meetings are done for the 2024 season but will be starting up again in March, looking for new members. Dedicated to promoting the artists in the area, PMAG meets at the Western Pocono Community Library in Brodheadsville. For information, contact Nancy Embich, president, at brushwork36@yahoo.com.

Out in the Open

Continued from page 10

also make progressive-stage models for those looking to reload large quantities in the shortest time. Some companies even make it easier for beginners by offering a complete reloading package.

Reloading ammunition is a precise process and a very safe sport. “Many books are available, usually titled ‘Reloading Manuals,’ and it is essential that the handloader follow the instructions and use only the tested powder loads provided for each caliber,” Meola emphasizes to his classes.

Hanna’s Farm Market

Christmas and Hanukkah SHOP NOW OPEN!

Artisan Breads Fridays; Fresh Baked Goods Daily; Fresh Baked Baguettes Wednesday and Sunday; Locally Butchered Meat; Charcuterie; Alaskan-Caught Seafood; Local Dairy; Italian Pastas from Tallutos; Many More LocallySourced Food Items; Fresh Brewed Coffee and Herbal Teas served daily.

James Meola prepares to insert a primer into a metallic rifle cartridge using a single-stage reloading press as part of the classes he conducts for beginners. (Photo by Alex Zidock)

Anyone interested in learning to reload metallic cartridges can contact James Meola at president@brcvrodgun.org. As a side note, Blue Ridge Cherry Valley Rod and Gun Club in Sciota was established in 1874, making it the nation’s oldest continuously operating club of its type.

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THEME: HAPPY HOLIDAYS

ACROSS

1. F, unit of electrical capacity

6. *Buche de NoÎl, e.g.

9. What influencers do?

13. Yemeni’s neighbor

14. Another word for Tokyo

15. Singer Ross of “Where Did Our Love Go” fame

16. Laundry room fire hazard, pl.

17. Much of it about nothing?

18. Furnish with a fund

19. *”A Bad Moms Christmas” actress Bell

21. *Tiny Tim creator

23. Tibetan ox

24. Khrushchev’s domain

25. *Goo on real Christmas tree

28. Sketch

30. *Poinsettia’s motherland

35. “____ ____

Good Men”, movie

37. Brussels’ org.

39. Plant fungus

40. Reluctant

41. Klutzy

43. *”It’s beginning to look ____ ____ like...”

44. Domains

46. Bog down

47. Oxen connector

48. Under epidermis

50. Mums’ mums

52. Over, poetically

53. Alleviate

55. ____ Mahal

57. *Tanne in “O Tannenbaum” (2 words)

61. *It is feliz to Feliciano

65. Radioshow host: “Hello, you’re ____ ____”

66. Knot-tying vow (2 words)

68. Dispatch boat

69. Carthage’s ancient neighbor

70. *Egg___

71. Oil lamp dweller

72. Fishing poles

73. Bigheadedness

74. Painter Degas

DOWN

1. Lore people

2. Mideast ruler

3. Hindu princess

4. Jittery

5. Farthest from point of origin

6. Ground beef description

7. Like Lemmon and Matthau together

8. Merchandise

9. Swim’s alternative

10. Dwyane, once of Miami Heat

11. Any day now, to Shakespeare

12. Swerves

15. King’s order

20. Increasing

22. Philosophy ending

24. Undo, as in strings

25. Green side

26. Before, in the olden days

27. J.M. Barrie’s Pan

29. “Howdy, ____!”

31. Internal picture

32. Meltable home

33. Singer Sam of “Twistin’ the Night Away” fame

34. Weasel’s aquatic cousin

36. *”Last Christmas” band, with !

38. Edible pod

42. Busybody, in Yiddish

45. Mountain range

49. Certain fraternity house letters

51. Cruel

54. Isle de la Cité river

56. Tripped the light fantastic

57. *Number of ghosts in “A Christmas Carol”

58. *”He’s Just Not That ____ You”, movie

59. Police’s surprise

60. Habitual twitches

61. Not happening (2 words)

62. Minor bumper damage

63. “Heat of the Moment” band

64. Opposite of talker?

67. *The Grinch’s Max

AreA FunerAls

CYNTHIA J. MARION

Cynthia J. Marion, 65, of Blakeslee, passed away Saturday, November 16, 2024 at home.

She was the loving wife of Patrick G. “Pat” Marion Sr. They celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary in April.

Born on October 6, 1959, in New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Frederick R. Johnson and the late Sylvia (Hollenbeck) Johnson.

Cynthia was a talented artist and was an avid drawer using pen and ink in her earlier years. She also played softball in high school. Cynthia always had a creative mind in arts and crafts, enjoyed crocheting and listening to music, and loved riding on a motorcycle.

Most of all, she loved and adored her family. She was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Cynthia will be deeply missed by all her friends and family.

In addition to her husband Patrick, she is survived by

a daughter, Crystal Cooper and her husband Jason; two stepchildren, Patrick G. Marion Jr., and Christina Marie Marion and her significant other Ernie; a brother, Thomas Johnson and his wife Barbara; three sisters, Janice Kerr, Nancy Mountain and her husband Keith, and Lynda Johnson and her significant other Chris; eight grandchildren, Hailley, Vera, Riley, Amber, Alex, Zoey, Jason, and Lilah; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial services were held December 7, from the Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209, Brodheadsville, with Rev. David Felker officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the PA Breast Cancer Coalition: Please visit website https://www. pabreastcancer.or/donate/ or to the Prostate Cancer Foundation: pcf.org. www.kresgefuneralhome. com

GLORIA BUCHALSKI

Gloria Teresa (Laine) Buchalski, 96, of Long Pond passed away in her home on Sunday, November 10, 2024.

Born in Brooklyn, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Josephine (Kinelly) Laine. Gloria was the beloved wife of Richard Buchalski.

Gloria loved riding her bicycle and bird watching. She was a faithful contributor to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Above all, Gloria was a devoted homemaker who truly made a beautiful home for her family in Levittown,NY. Gloria later moved to the Poconos to be closer to her beloved grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Richard, Gloria will be lovingly

Saint Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church ROUTE 940 • POCONO SUMMIT (Between CVS & Tractor Supply)

remembered by her sons, Dennis Buchalski and his wife Tara, and Kenneth Buchalski; grandchildren, Richard D. Buchalski, and Kerry Buchalski and her husband Michael Burns; great-grandchildren, Levi Burns and Zafirah Edwards-Warren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Gloria is preceded in death by her brothers, James Laine and Charles Laine, and sisters, Anne Mauro and Joan Wagner. Services are private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

NANCY LEE GANDER

Nancy Lee Gander, 76, of Tobyhanna Township, passed away Thursday, December 5, 2024, in her home. She was the widow of Charles Nicholas Gander with whom she shared 34 years of marriage at the time of his death on December 14, 2009.

Born on November 2, 1948 in Clifton, NJ, she was a daughter of the late Raymond and Maryann (Smith) Atno. She lived in Monroe County since 2003, moving from Haledon, NJ. Nancy worked for Passaic County as a pensions and benefits clerk until her retirement.

Surviving are her two sons, Charles N. Gander, Jr. and wife Hope of Wayne, NJ, and Thomas R. Gander and wife Erin of Hawthorne, NJ; four grandchildren, Christopher Gander, Owen Gander, Hayley Gander and Thomas Gander.

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

Very Rev. Michael Salnicky, Pastor For Parish Office Call (570) 595-3265

DIVINE LITURGY (MASS) For Mass Times Call (570) 839-8090

AreA FunerAls

MARLENE A. BECK

Marlene A. Beck, 86, of Albrightsville, formerly of Waymart, passed away peacefully on Thursday afternoon, November 21, 2024 with her loving family at her side. Her beloved husband, Harry E. Beck preceded her in death in 1993.

Born February 15, 1938 in Glendale, New York, she was the daughter of the late Alfred and Agnes (Kraker) Jonck.

Marlene was the manager of the JC Penney catalog store in Honesdale until its closure and her retirement. Prior to working at JC Penney, she was employed by the Western Wayne School District in the cafeteria.

Marlene was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life revolved around her children and grandchildren. She is survived by five children: Harry Beck and his girlfriend Suzanne of Albrightsville, Alfred Beck and his wife Robin, Denise Johnson and her husband Vincent, Glenn Beck and his wife Mary, all of Waymart; and Marlene Perri and her husband Ronald of Carbondale; grandchildren: Andrew and Tracy Beck, Amanda and Bob Fidiam, Matthew Beck, Dennis and Julio Beck Berrios, Andrea Beck, Ashley Johnson, Kyle and Carly Johnson, Tyler and Ronelle Beck, Courtney Perri, Allie and Tim Shaw, Brooke and Jackson Landers; greatgrandchildren: Olivia, Brooklyn, Izaiah, Jaxon, Lawson, Charlotte, Liam;

two sisters: Joyce Moller, and Kathleen Fallica; two brothers: Kenneth Jonck and Dennis Jonck; many nieces and nephews; special friends: Judy Daniels, and Marie Angotti.

Marlene was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Mary, a brother, Alfred J. Jonck; sisters, Alice Jonck & Karen Cook; and a granddaughter, Bianca Beck.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff at St. Luke’s Carbon Campus and St. Luke’s Hospice, Bayada Home Health, Dr. Brandon Yorty, and Ariel Danziger, RN.

A Memorial Mass was celebrated December 4, at St. Mary’s Church, Waymart, with Rev. Andrew Kurovsky and Deacon Edward Kelly officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Bianca Beck Memorial Foundation, at www.bbeckmemorial.org or mailed to 914 Church Street, Honesdale, PA 18431.

Inurnment was in Clinton Center Cemetery.

Paul Octave Herbert Davidson, 82, a beloved son, husband, brother, brotherin-law, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2024, at his cherished lake house, surrounded by family and his faithful dog, Sandy.

Born on February 21, 1942, in Bronxville, NY, to Alice and James Davidson, Paul grew up in Manhattan at 1160 The Avenue alongside his brothers Alex and Mike. Summers were spent in Rosalyn, Virginia, working on his grandfather’s farm, where he developed a strong work ethic and a love for family traditions.

Paul excelled in athletics during his high school years, earning state championships as a wrestler and playing football. After graduation, he took a year off before attending Miami University, where he also played football. However, Paul put his football ambitions on hold to grow his first family, marrying Rita and welcoming three children, Debbie, Chris, and Beth.

Paul’s career path led him

Puzzle Answers

to Philadelphia, where he joined Westmoreland Coal Mine as an accountant. His hard work and dedication saw him rise to a supervisor role, but life had more in store for him. After his divorce from Rita, Paul met Bette at the office. What began as a friendship blossomed into a beautiful lifelong partnership. Paul’s first move an unforgettable kiss set both their hearts on a new path. They married on October 12, 1975, and began building a life filled with love and adventure. Together, they welcomed two more daughters, Laura and Rachel.

Paul’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when he left the corporate world to pursue his dream of owning a restaurant. He and Bette purchased a property in Lake Harmony, and after three years of hard work and dedication, Piggys Restaurant opened its doors in 1985. Paul poured his heart into the kitchen, creating recipes that are still treasured today, while Bette ran the dining room with warmth and care. The restaurant became a thriving business and a gathering place for family and friends a true reflection of Paul’s generous spirit.

Paul adored his family above all else and took immense pride in his five children, Debra, Chris, Beth, Laura, and Rachel, and his six grandchildren, Vicky, Abby, Nicole, Kari, Killian, and Avi, and his two greatgrandchildren, Emmitt and Juliet.

He treasured family

vacations, whether skiing in the snowy peaks of Vermont, immersing himself in Europe’s rich culture, or taking in the breathtaking views along Route One on the West Coast. However, his greatest joy came from sharing these adventures with Bette. Together, they created countless memories, traveling and cherishing every moment. Among their most beloved experiences was a four-month journey sailing the lower half of the Great Loop on a 50-foot Gibson houseboat. Later, they upgraded to a 65-foot Bluewater yacht, spending their winters cruising Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway and their summers near Philadelphia. Eventually, they traded life on the water for a new adventure purchasing a home in Florida to enjoy warm winters and retreating to their lake house on Lake Harmony during the summer months.

He passed away in the place he loved most his lake house overlooking the water that brought him peace and joy. Paul lived an extraordinary life, marked by hard work, love, resilience, and an unshakable devotion to the people he held dear. Service for Paul Davidson will be on Friday, December 13, at 2 p.m. from Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Homes, P.C. - Allentown, 1629 Hamilton Street, Allentown.

In lieu of flowers you can send a donation to the Lake Harmony rescue squad who would make frequent visits to help with Paul.

PAUL OCTAVE HERBERT DAVIDSON

AreA FunerAls

RICHARD H. WILLIAMS

Richard H. Williams, 58, passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at home.

For the last 15 years Richard was a resident of Albrightsville. He was born in New York City on January 25, 1966, to Bert and Mary Williams, formerly of Truro, England. Richard was the youngest of their eight children.

He spent most of his life living in New Rochelle, NY, where he played ice hockey for New Rochelle High

School. After graduation he played on the Midnight Hockey team with all five of his brothers and friends. Richard had been a member of the Sunrisers Drum and Bugle Corps from Long Island NY, as well as being a member of the B.P.O.E Elks Club of New Rochelle. He was one of three brothers as the original participants to start the Youth Soccer program of New Rochelle, created by his father. Richard also an honorary member of the American Legion, and

was active in charity work for Toys For Tots. Richard had a loving heart towards everyone he met and was always willing to help others. While working for T.A.D after the September 11 2001 attack on the World Trade Center, Richard was involved in laying cable to restore communications

in the city. After moving to Albrightsville, he was employed by Weis Markets. Richard is survived by his five brothers, John Williams, Gary Williams, Bert Williams Jr., Michael Williams, and David Williams; his two sisters, Sherrill Lynn Thorne and Charmon Kay Dennis; nine nephews and five nieces

as well as an uncle, aunt, and cousins in Truro. Richard was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

A funeral service was held November 22 at the Kresge Funeral Home, Brodheadsville, with the Rev. John Hassler officiating. www.kresgefuneralhome. com