Journal of the Pocono Plateau, March 12-25, 2021 by canwinjournal

THE

BOXHOLDER

VOLUME 25, NUMBER 20

March 12–25, 2021

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Mount Pocono council changes leadership again by Seth & Ruth Isenberg In an emotional and tumultuous session on March 4, Mount Pocono Borough Council replaced president Claudette Williams, naming vice-president Fran O’Boyle in her place. Council also reduced the duties of newly hired manager Joshua Walker, pending his obtaining bonding. Once bonded, the duties will be restored. The meeting was held in person in the social rooms of the Mount Pocono United Methodist Church to allow for socially-distanced public participation, and was rescheduled from the original advertised date of March 1. O’Boyle had been removed deemed “medically necessary” as vice-president at a meeting by the applicable insurance plan in which the subscriber is in January, then reinstated at the February meeting. The enrolled. March action followed accusaExpanding signups opportions that Williams did not tunities, PMREMS has introrespond to emails and calls duced Commercial Subscriptions. Area businesses can sign from council members and mayor Michael Penn, and up to cover employees should should be replaced in hopes of emergency medical care be needed from the place of busi- unifying the borough. Williams took exception ness. to this description. At the A direct mailing has been sent out. There is also easy ac- start of the meeting, she cited instances of strongly racist cess online at PMREMS.org.

PMREMS subscription drive now includes commercial option Pocono Mountain Regional Emergency Medical Services have kicked off the annual subscription drive. The non-profit’s theme is “Membership making a difference” — for the community and ambulance organization alike. Responding to more than 6,900 emergency calls in 2020, PMREMS has seen increases in operating costs including building and vehicle maintenance, equipment acquisition, and training class-

es for medical professionals. The fund drive was created as means of offsetting these expenses and continuing to provide quality care. PMREMS turns to the community for help.Residents can be enrolled in “Drive” coverage June 1, 2021 to May 31, 2022 for just $75 and receive transportation via Emergency Ambulance Services generated through the 911 system. Ambulance transportation of an emergency nature must be

language directed at her, and She explained that she did not respond to all the calls and constant emails because some were excessive and repetitive. The vote to change was led by Tom Neville, who spent his time with harsh descriptions, and frequently interrupted Williams as she spoke. The vote was Neville, Patty Bucco, O’Boyle and Ron Emile in favor of naming O’Boyle president. Opposed were Williams, Aida Montanez, and Stacy Stewart-Keeler. Williams declined a nomination to serve as vice-president, and the position went to Bucco by the same 4-3 vote. The discussion over Walker’s work and his need for a bond was equally harsh, with the suggestion rejected to allow him step back to serve as borough secretary until he gains his bond. Neville then made a motion to terminate Walker. This led to praise of his work from the other members, and intervention from borough solicitor Jim Fareri, who guided the discussion away from termination. No vote was taken. Walker will be completing all the details See Mt. POCONO, page 2

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Mt. Pocono Continued from page 1

on his bonding and should have it by the next meeting on March 15. In other business, the proposal to build a 1.2 million square foot warehouse building on the site of the former Mt. Pocono Golf Course was scheduled for a public hearing for April 12 at 6 p.m. The project includes a road from Industrial Drive to the site, with a proposal to continue it out to Pine Hill Road in front

of Bailey’s. Barbara Tyrrel was appointed to the board of the Pocono Mountain Public Library. Council will advertise for a person to serve on the borough’s vacancy board. This person would cast the deciding vote if council was tied on the appointment of a member of council, should a vacancy occur. Work hours of treasurer Danielle Hewitt were increased from 16 to 28, and her pay rate adjusted. She was also approved as the new contact for Berkheimer.

NEW LOCAL AA MEETINGS Pocono Lake Wesleyan Church, located at 203 Spur Road in Pocono Lake, PA is serving as a host site for three Alcoholics Anonymous meetings each week. These groups are meeting at 6:00 PM Monday nights in the church’s Cuppa Cafe, Wednesday Nights at 6:00 PM in the church’s Children’s Ministry area, and on Fridays at 6:00 PM in the churches Cuppa Cafe. The meetings are open to anyone who is seeking encouragement and help with their desire to stay sober. Enter through the single door at the front of the church and look for arrows pointing the way.

St. Maximilian Kolbe Roman Catholic Parish announces Holy Week schedule St. Maximilian Kolbe Roman Catholic Parish, 5112 Pocono Crest Road, Pocono Pines, announces its schedule for Holy Week. Masses for Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord will be celebrated on Saturday, March 27, at 4 p.m. and on Sunday, March 28, at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Following the Palm Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m., the Polish community of the parish will pray the Bitter Lamentations — also known as Gorzkie Zale. These devotions are sung in Polish with English translations available. Mass on Thursday of the Lord’s Supper, April 1, will be at 7 p.m. and the Friday of the Passion of the Lord, April

2, will be celebrated at 2 p.m. There will also be Stations of the Cross on Good Friday evening at 7 p.m. On Holy Saturday, April 3, there will be a special Blessing of the Food Baskets in the parish parking lot at 12 p.m. and the Easter Vigil in the Holy Night will be celebrated at 8 p.m. On Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord, Masses will be at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Due to the COVID-19 guidelines set forth by the Diocese of Scranton, masks are required at all times while inside the church and social distancing is enforced. Additionally, for those who wish to worship at home — as the obligation to

attend Mass is still lifted per the Most Reverend Joseph Bambera, Bishop of Scranton — all Masses and services during Holy Week will be broadcast live on the parish’s Facebook page. Contact the parish for information on how to log on. St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish is located at 5112 Pocono Crest Road, Pocono Pines, near the intersection of Routes 940 and 423. From Route 940 in Pocono Pines, turn opposite the gas station/Dunkin’ toward the Tobyhanna Township Government Center. St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish will be on the right. For more information, contact the parish office at 570-646-6424.

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021 — PAGE 3

Tunkhannock Twp adopts four ordinances on Planning Commission recommendation by Jeanine Hofbauer

Editorial

Electronic sunshine by Ruth Isenberg March 14-20 is Sunshine Week in Pennsylvania. While the sun does seem to be shining more brightly as spring approaches, this Sunshine Week refers to the state’s Sunshine Act, the legislation that requires meetings of public agencies to be — surprise — open and accessible to the public. There were few upsides to the COVID-19 lockdown, but one positive development was the use of Zoom, Go-To-Meeting, Facebook Live and other services that allowed people to tune in to meetings of school boards, borough councils and township supervisors remotely. The on-line access let people stay safe, yet still stay informed about what the people they had elected were doing on their behalf. That’s the key thing about the Sunshine Law. It isn’t for the convenience of elected officials; in fact, there are times when it clearly is incovenient for them to have to do sensitive business in public. The law was enacted for the convenience of the public, including the news media, so they could see in person what the people they had elected were doing. The easing of COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings is unquestionably a good thing. But school boards and councils that had been providing on-line access to their meetings might want to consider continuing the practice. People who have not yet been vaccinated may be reluctant to attend a public meeting. People with disabilities have always had barriers to participation. And many people, like parents of small children, just find it impossible to leave their homes for an evening meeting. Elected officials have learned how to conduct business on line. There’s no good reason they should stop offering this kind of transparency, just because they’ve gone back in-person meetings. Unless, of course, they are hoping to re-close the curtains on on-line participation and return some of the people who elected them back into the dark.

driveway entrances to two, and sets a driveway opening permit fee of $100. Tunkhannock Township’s Prohibiting farm animals February 10 supervisors on properties with less than meeting began with a public two acres was the basis for the hearing on four ordinances proposed in 2020 — 2020-01, Keeping of Chickens ordinance 2020-05. Primarily targeting Temporary RV/Tent; 2020roosters, the regulation is sup03, Building Codes; 2020posed to relieve homeowner 04, Driveway; and 2020-05, aggravation over wandering Chicken regulations. Supervifowl. sors approved all four folColeman noted “significant lowing Planning Commission intelligent debate” during recommendations on each. Planning Commission review Ease of permitting and enof all four ordinances. forcement was the top quesZoning Officer Kate Lambert tion on the RV /Tent Use explained restrictions on isordinance. Solicitor Harry Coleman ex- suing Certificates of Occupanplained the intent of the 2020- cy to complete transactions. Property owners who failed to 03 Uniform Building Code Amendment is for “[Bringing] file for appropriate building Enforcement Ordinances up to code permits when converting basements into bedrooms speed.” cannot be issued an occupancy The Driveway amendment permit when the home is sold. limits the number of dwelling

The number of bedrooms not matching septic capacity came in second in a review of township zoning violations. December’s Treasurer’s Report listed a balances of $2,059,758.31 in the general fund, with income of $66,099.66 and expenses of $80,181.08. January Treasurer’s Report showed income of $108,764.65, expenses of $210,427.05 and a general fund balance of $1,943,274.73. Bills totaling $203,026.17 for January and $26,169.05 for February were approved. Supervisors Fran DePiano, George Ewald and Steve Malaico were present, along with Atty. Coleman, secretary/tTreasurer Tina Kernan, zoning officer Lambert and spectators in addition to Zoom observers.

PMSD moving to four day in-school week by Jeanine Hofbauer

vaccination location Colonial Academy will receive 4,500 to provide to those selected bePocono Mountain School tween March 10-13. District moves to a four-day Public participation includinstructional model begined Pocono Mountain Eduning March 15, following a cation Association president unanimous vote by directors on March 3. Reporting survey Tom Brogan recommending the district delay returning for response results for over 3, four-day in-school weekly un556 students, Superintendent til educators are vaccinated. Dr. Elizabeth Robison shared Two district students were how parents and caregivers weighed in on at-home versus named part of three Team 3A 2021 Greater Lehigh Valley in-school standards. and Northeastern PA Discussion followed reLeukemia & Lymphoma garding COVID-19 safety Society Students of the Year. implementation and recent Pocono Mountain West High Pennsylvania Department of Education updates on priority School sophomore Angie Espinoza and Pocono Mounvaccinations. tain East junior Alex Hafler Responsible for prioritizing by March 8 who should receive teamed with Stroudsburg senior Ashley Filipkowski part of PMSD’s 479 doses; to succeed in a seven-week the Superintendent explained

campaign January 7 to February 26. Their Leadership Development program raised $62,000 that was added to record fundraising of $334,000 towards the goal to “annihilate cancer.” Clear Run Intermediate shared details of the school’s Elementary After-school Tutoring plan. Held 6 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday when school is in session, the 30-minute lesson reviews old material and previews new. Parents and students can use Google Forms for signups. Pocono Mountain School District’s next meeting is planned for March 17. Visit PMSD.org for sign-on instructions plus updates on the meeting agenda and location.

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• PUB LIC NOTICE (PAGE 1 O F 4) • P RO P OS E D A ME N D M E N TS TO T H E CO N ST I T U T I O N O F P E N N SYLVA N I A This notice contains information about questions that will be on the ballot in the Municipal Primary to be held on May 18, 2021. The ballot questions propose three separate amendments to the Constitution of Pennsylvania, based on a joint resolution of the General Assembly of Pennsylvania. If one or more of the ballot questions is approved by a majority of the people voting on it, each amendment approved will become law. The General Assembly of Pennsylvania first proposed the amendments during the 2020 session and approved them for a second time during the 2021 session of the legislature, as required by Article XI, Section 1 of the Constitution. This public notice is part of the process of amending the Constitution of Pennsylvania. The Secretary of the Commonwealth is required to publish: • • •

A copy of the joint resolution proposing the amendments. The text of each question that will be on the ballot. A “Plain English Statement” prepared by the Office of Attorney General explaining the purpose, limitations and effects of each ballot question upon the people of this Commonwealth.

Text that appears in bold print are the changes to the words of the Constitution that are proposed by the General Assembly. If the amendment is approved, the words underlined would be added to the Constitution and the words in [brackets] would be deleted. If you need help reading this advertisement or need the text of the proposed amendment in an alternative format, call or write the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Election Services and Notaries, Room 210 North Office Building, Harrisburg, PA 17120, 1-877-868-3772 (option 3), ra-elections@pa.gov. Veronica Degraffenreid Acting Secretary of the Commonwealth

JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 2021 – 1 Proposing separate and distinct amendments to the Constitution of Pennsylvania, in declaration of rights, providing for prohibition against denial or abridgment of equality of rights because of race and ethnicity; in legislation, further providing for action on concurrent orders and resolutions; and, in the executive, providing for disaster emergency declaration and management. The General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania hereby resolves as follows: Section 1. The following separate and distinct amendments to the Constitution of Pennsylvania are proposed in accordance with Article XI: (1) That Article I of the Constitution of Pennsylvania be amended by adding a section to read: § 29. Prohibition against denial or abridgment of equality of rights because of race and ethnicity. Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania because of the race or ethnicity of the individual. (1.1) That section 9 of Article III be amended to read: § 9. Action on concurrent orders and resolutions. Every order, resolution or vote, to which the concurrence of both Houses may be necessary, except on the [question of adjournment] questions of adjournment or termination or extension of a disaster emergency declaration as declared by an executive order or proclamation, or portion of a disaster emergency declaration as declared by an executive order or proclamation, shall be presented to the Governor and before it shall take effect be approved by him, or being disapproved, shall be repassed by two-thirds of both Houses according to the rules and limitations prescribed in case of a bill. (2) That Article IV be amended by adding a section to read: § 20. Disaster emergency declaration and management. (a) A disaster emergency declaration may be declared by executive

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021 — PAGE 5

• P U B L I C NOT I CE ( PAG E 2 O F 4 ) •

order or proclamation of the Governor upon finding that a disaster has occurred or that the occurrence or threat of a disaster is imminent that threatens the health, safety or welfare of this Commonwealth.

with section 1 of Article XI of the Constitution of Pennsylvania and which occurs at least three months after the proposed constitutional amendment is passed by the General Assembly.

(b) Each disaster emergency declaration issued by the Governor under subsection (a) shall indicate the nature, each area threatened and the conditions of the disaster, including whether the disaster is a natural disaster, military emergency, public health emergency, technological disaster or other general emergency, as defined by statute. The General Assembly shall, by statute, provide for the manner in which each type of disaster enumerated under this subsection shall be managed.

(1.1) Submit the proposed constitutional amendment under section 1(1.1) of this resolution to the qualified electors of this Commonwealth as a separate ballot question at the first primary, general or municipal election which meets the requirements of and is in conformance with section 1 of Article XI of the Constitution of Pennsylvania and which occurs at least three months after the proposed constitutional amendment is passed by the General Assembly.

(c) A disaster emergency declaration under subsection (a) shall be in effect for no more than twenty-one (21) days, unless otherwise extended in whole or part by concurrent resolution of the General Assembly. (d) Upon the expiration of a disaster emergency declaration under subsection (a), the Governor may not issue a new disaster emergency declaration based upon the same or substantially similar facts and circumstances without the passage of a concurrent resolution of the General Assembly expressly approving the new disaster emergency declaration. Section 2. (a) Upon the first passage by the General Assembly of these proposed constitutional amendments, the Secretary of the Commonwealth shall proceed immediately to comply with the advertising requirements of section 1 of Article XI of the Constitution of Pennsylvania and shall transmit the required advertisements to two newspapers in every county in which such newspapers are published in sufficient time after passage of these proposed constitutional amendments. (b) Upon the second passage by the General Assembly of these proposed constitutional amendments, the secretary of the commonwealth shall proceed immediately to comply with the advertising requirements of section 1 of Article XI of the Constitution of Pennsylvania and shall transmit the required advertisements to two newspapers in every county in which such newspapers are published in sufficient time after passage of these proposed constitutional amendments. The Secretary of the Commonwealth shall: (1) Submit the proposed constitutional amendment under section 1(1) of this resolution to the qualified electors of this Commonwealth as a separate ballot question at the first primary, general or municipal election which meets the requirements of and is in conformance

(2) Submit the proposed constitutional amendment under section 1(2) of this resolution to the qualified electors of this Commonwealth as a separate ballot question at the first primary, general or municipal election which meets the requirements of and is in conformance with section 1 of Article XI of the Constitution of Pennsylvania and which occurs at least three months after the proposed constitutional amendment is passed by the General Assembly.

PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT – ARTICLE III, SECTION 9 RELATING TO TERMINATION OR EXTENSION OF DISASTER EMERGENCY DECLARATIONS Ballot Question Shall the Pennsylvania Constitution be amended to change existing law and increase the power of the General Assembly to unilaterally terminate or extend a disaster emergency declaration—and the powers of Commonwealth agencies to address the disaster regardless of its severity pursuant to that declaration—through passing a concurrent resolution by simple majority, thereby removing the existing check and balance of presenting a resolution to the Governor for approval or disapproval?

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• P U B L I C NOT I CE ( PAG E 3 O F 4 ) •

Plain English Statement of the Office of Attorney General Joint Resolution No. 2021-1 proposes to amend Article III, Section 9 of the Pennsylvania Constitution to provide a new exception to traditional legislative procedure by allowing the General Assembly to terminate or extend a disaster emergency declaration or a portion of such declaration without needing the Governor’s approval.

PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT – ARTICLE IV DISASTER EMERGENCY DECLARATION AND MANAGEMENT

Currently, Article III, Section 9 establishes a general rule that all orders, resolutions or votes requiring approval by both the House of Representatives and Senate must be presented to the Governor for his approval or veto. Resolutions for the adjournment of the General Assembly are exempted from this process. If the order, resolution or vote is approved by the Governor, it becomes law. If the Governor vetoes the resolution, it does not become law unless two-thirds of the House and Senate vote to override the veto. The proposed amendment would create an additional exception to this customary legislative procedure for concurrent resolutions to terminate or extend, in whole or in part, a disaster emergency declaration issued by the Governor.

Shall the Pennsylvania Constitution be amended to change existing law so that: a disaster emergency declaration will expire automatically after 21 days, regardless of the severity of the emergency, unless the General Assembly takes action to extend the disaster emergency; the Governor may not declare a new disaster emergency to respond to the dangers facing the Commonwealth unless the General Assembly passes a concurrent resolution; the General Assembly enacts new laws for disaster management?

The proposed amendment will also have the effect of reversing a recent ruling of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court which held the Pennsylvania Constitution prohibited the General Assembly from passing a concurrent resolution to terminate the Governor’s Covid-19 disaster emergency declaration without presenting it to the Governor for his approval. It will change the law to allow the General Assembly to terminate or extend a disaster emergency declaration through a concurrent resolution approved by only a majority of the members of the House and Senate, without having to present the resolution to the Governor for his approval or veto. The proposed amendment is limited in that it only changes the traditional legislative process for terminating or extending disaster emergency declarations issued by the Governor. The amendment will not alter the current legislative procedure with respect to which orders, resolutions or votes of the General Assembly must be presented to the Governor for his approval on any other subject matter.

Ballot Question

Plain English Statement of the Office of Attorney General Joint Resolution No. 2021-1 proposes adding a new section to Article IV of the Pennsylvania Constitution. This amendment incorporates disaster emergency declaration and management powers directly into the Constitution by: • • • • •

Granting the Governor authority to declare a disaster emergency declaration by proclamation or executive order; Requiring each declaration to indicate the nature, location and type of disaster; Granting the General Assembly authority to pass laws providing for the manner in which each disaster shall be managed; Limiting the duration of a Governor’s declaration to 21 days, unless otherwise extended, in whole or in part, by a concurrent resolution of the General Assembly; Preventing the Governor, upon the expiration of a declaration, from issuing a new declaration based upon the same or substantially similar facts, unless the General Assembly passes a concurrent resolution expressly approving a new declaration.

Currently, disaster emergency declaration and management powers are delegated by statute to the Governor. The Governor has the sole authority to issue and manage all disaster emergency declarations, which cannot extend beyond 90 days unless renewed by the Governor.

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021 — PAGE 7

• P U B L I C NOT I CE ( PAG E 4 O F 4 ) •

The General Assembly may override a Governor’s disaster emergency declaration by concurrent resolution that must be presented to the Governor for his approval or veto. If approved, the amendment would transfer certain of the Governor’s existing authority to respond to and manage disaster emergencies to the General Assembly. The Governor would retain the authority to issue an initial disaster emergency declaration but the declaration’s permissible length would be reduced from 90 to 21 days. The sole authority to extend a declaration would lie with the General Assembly; presently, this power rests with the Governor. Upon expiration of the initial declaration, the amendment prohibits the Governor from issuing a new declaration based upon the same or substantially similar facts without the approval of the General Assembly. The Governor would no longer have unilateral authority to manage disasters, but would have to do so consistent with the laws passed by the General Assembly. If approved, the General Assembly would be required to pass new laws establishing the manner in which each type of disaster shall be managed. If added to the Pennsylvania Constitution, the proposed amendment cannot be modified or repealed except by a judicial decision finding all or part of the proposed amendment unconstitutional or by the approval of a subsequent constitutional amendment.

PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT – ARTICLE I PROHIBITION AGAINST DENIAL OR ABRIDGEMENT OF EQUALITY OF RIGHTS BECAUSE OF RACE OR ETHNICITY

Plain English Statement of the Office of Attorney General Joint Resolution No. 2021-1, if approved by the electorate, will add a new section to Article I of the Pennsylvania Constitution. This amendment creates a constitutional prohibition against restricting or denying an individual’s equal rights under Pennsylvania law because of race or ethnicity. Generally, inclusion of this amendment within the Pennsylvania Constitution signifies that freedom from discrimination based on race or ethnicity is an essential principle of liberty and free government. This amendment applies to all Pennsylvania state, county and local governmental entities, and guarantees equality of rights under the law. The amendment, if enacted, will become a part of the Pennsylvania Constitution. As such, its provisions must be applied consistent with the other provisions of the Constitution. This equal right to be free from racial or ethnic discrimination will exist independent from any such rights under the United States Constitution or corresponding federal law. If the current federal protections proscribing racial or ethnic discrimination are abolished, the prohibition against such discrimination will remain in the Pennsylvania Constitution. The amendment is limited in that it creates a right only under Pennsylvania law. Once added to the Pennsylvania Constitution, the right to be free from racial or ethnic discrimination under the law cannot be eliminated except by a judicial decision finding the amendment unconstitutional or the approval of a subsequent constitutional amendment. If approved, the General Assembly may pass new laws to implement the amendment, but it may not pass a law inconsistent with it.

Ballot Question Shall the Pennsylvania Constitution be amended by adding a new section providing that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged because of an individual’s race or ethnicity?

PAID FOR WITH PENNSYLVANIA TAXPAYER DOLLARS. THIS ADVERTISEMENT IS FUNDED IN WHOLE BY THE GENERAL FUND.

PAGE 8 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021

Seth’s Sightings Lucky I was lucky this past Monday night as I put the dogs outside about 2 a.m. before we all went to bed. Bull, our German Shorthair, went right out to do what he needed, then came right back and I let him in. Spookie, our little mixed breed, wanted to stay outside a bit longer, until she was startled by a skunk. She jumped, which startled the skunk — and up went its tail. This spooked Spookie (why she has her name) and she made a quick dash inside. The skunk seemed satisfied to be left alone. We’re lucky in that if the skunk had sprayed, it would have gotten the dogs and the wall of our house by our bedroom. The warming temperatures seem to have brought out the skunks. On that rainy Sunday day, we drove to Allentown to see the Allentown Art Museum’s display of their recently restored Rembrandt painting — experts are agreeing it’s the real thing. Also worth the trip is a full gallery of women’s

fashions of the early 1900s, at the time of a move to a skirt and shirtwaist from the full dresses of the past. This exhibit is chronicled with beautiful period pieces, pictures and stories. As for sightings, we’ve seen several foxes, and a flock of turkeys did a stately stroll in front of us while we drove through Hickory Run State Park, headed for an area where a spring had exposed some grass, likely it was warm enough to melt the once deep snow. We had gone there to take the dogs for a walk. Last week was cold, then Tuesday, as I write this column, it’s almost 50 degrees. Temperatures are to go up, then drop back to normal… a tease of spring just ahead of calendar spring. Temperatures are particularly bad for potholes. Keep alert when driving, as there are some big ones around. This weekend is not only St. Patrick’s Day weekend, but also the start of Daylight Saving Time. To celebrate EDT and use all the light we can,

by Seth Isenberg

we have planned a road trip. Most readers have seen the big vees of geese overhead, as the migration has started. This is THE time to go see snow geese at their migration stop at the Middle Creek Wildlife Refuge south of Lititz. As of the weekend, they estimate 90,000 snow geese at the refuge, plus swans, ducks and smaller birds. There is a live camera on the PA Game Commission sight that you can view, with audio, but going in person is going to be the best way to experience it. In our search for dog parks, Ruth recently discovered that Lancaster won a nationwide contest from Beneful dog foods. Their win earned them a half million dollar dog park upgrade. It’s big and beautiful, and worth a trip on its own, but as we’ll be about 20 minutes away at Middle Creek, we’ll bring the dogs there to check it out. Mauch Chunk Opera House reopens this weekend for shows, including some Irish music this Friday with Harrisburg-area’s Kilmaine Saints.

Picture the beauty of water in winter Need a reason to get outdoors and appreciate winter’s beauty? Exercise your natural creativity in Brodhead Watershed Association’s “Water in Winter” photo contest! Photographers are invited to submit beautiful images depicting water in winter — frozen waterfalls, ice formations, winter fishing and more. There are countless possibilities when the weather is right, so bundle up, get outside, and get creative! All submitted photos will have

a chance to be featured in BWA’s Get Outdoors Poconos campaign, across BWA’s social media and on BWA’s website with proper credit given to the photographer. All ages and families are encouraged to participate. Please send no more than ONE photo submission to info@brodheadwatershed. org. Submission guidelines: 1. All submission emails must include the location of photo, other detail (such as

trail name, waterfall name, etc.) and date taken. 2. All submission emails must include photographer’s first name, last name, and email. 3. Please attach no more than ONE eligible photograph to your email. Contest is open for submissions January 15 to March 15, 2021. For information and contest details, see brodheadwater shed.org.

This week Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre is open for wrestling and basketball playoffs, and next weekend, there will be spectators for Penguins ice hockey. I’m working on getting some tickets for a midweek game. The big Penguins have been sending down some better players to the local club, and there’s a noticeable improvement in the WBS Penguins from the added talent. Also in sports, I’m waiting on the brackets for March

Madness in college basketball — women’s and men’s. I am still not caring about the NBA. With the warm temperatures, there’s still plenty of March for another snowstorm. The only advantage is that when it snows, it won’t stick around. Here’s also looking toward having vaccines available around the Pocono Plateau, as more folks vaccinated will get our area back to normal sooner… perhaps for a regular summer hereabouts.

Rotary offers scholarships Pocono Mountain West High School seniors, and homeschool and private school students who live in Tobyhanna or Tunkhannock Townships, are invited to apply for scholarships. The Blakeslee Rotary is of-

fering scholarships valued at $1,500 each to two deserving graduates. For more information contact your guidance counselor or go the Blakeslee Rotary website for the application. Deadline to apply is April 15.

Beasty Treats Pet Supplies & Dog Grooming Spa

New Grooming Customers Welcome We carry a full line of pet supplies and food for your pet’s needs — whatever kind of pet you have!

Grooming Services Mon-Sat

Call (570)579-7735

314 Main Street, White Haven www.beastytreats.com

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021 — PAGE 9

From the Statehouse

Hospitality businesses urged to apply for grants by State Rep. Jack Rader Restaurants and other hospitality-related businesses in our region can now apply for financial assistance through the COVID-19 Hospitality Industry Recovery Program (CHIRP). Established under Act 1 of 2021, CHIRP allocates $145 million in funding assistance statewide to hospitality in2–5:30 p.m. Monday through dustry businesses adversely Friday and 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on affected by the pandemic. Saturdays. We can also print, Businesses in Monroe Councopy, and fax during curbside ty can find more information hours. In addition, we are and an application on the open for appointments if you Pocono Mountains Economwant to use our computers and ic Development Corporation browse our new books. Call website at www.pmedc.com/ the number above for more covid-19-business-resources. details. To be eligible for fundKeep an eye on PMPL’s ing, the applicant must be a YouTube channel, Facebook for-profit business that meets page, and new website (www. the following qualifications outlined in the law: poconolibrary.org) for help• Is not publicly traded. ful resources, guitar lessons, • Experienced a reduction in book reviews, reading recomrevenue of at least 25% in mendations, and other library relevant portions of calendar news. And don’t forget that we year 2020. have an extensive e-book and e-audiobook collection, which • Operates a place of business you can find on our website. They’re absolutely free. Look for the Hoopla or Overdrive link on our website.

Read with us at PMPL Join us for book club at Pocono Mountain Public Library via Zoom on Wednesday, March 24 at 2 p.m. We’ll be reading The Mysterious Affair at Styles by Agatha Christie — the best-selling novelist of all time. If you don’t have the time to commit to a full novel, consider picking up the selection for this month’s Short Attention Span Readers Club (The Short and Happy Life of Francis Macomber by Ernest Hemingway), which takes place on Monday, March 15 at 2 p.m. To register for either session, , call us at 570-894-8860 #3 or email us at poconolibrary.info@gmail.com. You can reserve these and other titles, and pick them up during curbside hours, which are 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and

within the Commonwealth within the Accommodation Industry (NAICS 721) or Food Services and Drinking Places (NAICS 722) and where accommodations, food or drink are served to the public. • Has fewer than 300 full-time-equivalent employees.

Clymer Library looking to fill trustee vacancies Clymer library is looking for a few trustees to fill some vacant positions. Trustees help guide the library’s strategic plans, library advocacy and provide fiscal oversight. They share the mission of the library within the community. Board members are expected to become familiar with the financial, legal and future planning needs of the library. The trustee works within the Board and in committees.

Blakeslee Animal Clinic “We Treat Your Pets Like Family” Dr. Andrew J. Church, Veterinarian

5251 Route 115, Blakeslee 1.9 miles south of Blakeslee Corners

570-643-0918 570-643-1084

Fax: 570-643-1080 ajchurchvmd@aol.com www.blakesleevet.com

• Has a maximum tangible net worth of not more than $15 million, as computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Funding is limited and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Grants will be awarded in increments of $5,000 up to a maximum of $50,000.

They do not become involved in the library management and day to day operations. Ideal candidates will have the following qualifications: ● Commitment to and understanding of Clymer library’s role in the community, preferably based on experience ● Personal qualities of integrity and credibility ● Knowledge of public library, political, and/or community issues relevant to the library’s mission ● Willingness and ability to give time to actively participate in monthly board meetings and activities ● Willingness to participate in the library’s fundraising and advocacy campaigns ● Ability to represent varied needs and interests of the community and of the library ● Ability to work with people, compromise, discuss issues calmly and communicate effectively The library is open to visitors at this time following CDC Covid guidelines. Please call with any questions or send your resume to: Anne Hogya, Library Director or Director@ clymerlibrary.org

PAGE 10 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021

March Madness upset: How are my picks doing? by Frank Fear In mid-February, I made a Baker’s Dozen picks of midmajors that could surprise in the First Round of the NCAA Tourna ment. How are my teams doing? The short answer is ‘mostly fine.’ Here’s where those teams stood in mid-February, and here’s where they stand as of March 7. (NOTE: Records Feb 14/March 7 & NCAA NET Rankings Feb 14/ Mar 7.) Abilene Christian (Southland), 18-3/21-4, #74/#85: ACU is in the Southland semifinals, March 12 Belmont (Ohio Valley), 22-1, 26-4, #63/#90: BU lost to Morehead State in the Ohio Valley Championship game Colgate (Patriot), 9-1, 12-1, #11/#8: CU is in the Patriot

League semifinals, March 10 Drake (Missouri Valley), 20-2, 24-3, #35/#47: Drake lost to Loyola in the Missouri Valley Championship game Grand Canyon (WAC), 123, 15-6, #114/#138: GCU is in the WAC semifinals, March 12 Loyola (Missouri Valley), 18-4, 24-4, #10/#10: Loyola is in the tournament, beat Drake in Missouri Valley Championship game St. Bonaventure (Atlantic 10), 10-3, 15-4, #41/#27: SBU is in the Atlantic 10 Championship game v. VCU, March 14 Stephen F. Austin (Southland), 12-3, 16-5, #168/#148: SFA is in the Southland quarterfinals, March 11 UNC Greensboro (Southern), 15-6, 20-8, #92/#91: UNCG is in the Southern Championship game v. Mercer, March 8 UC Santa Barbara (Big West), 14-3, 19-4, #49/#54: UCSB is in the Big West quarterfinals, March 11 Virginia Commonwealth (Atlantic 10), 15-4, 19-6,

#31/#35: VCU is in the Atlantic 10 Championship game v. SBU, March 14 Winthrop (Big South), 181, 23-1, #67/#55: Winthrop is in the tournament, beat Campbell in the Big South Championship game Wright State (Horizon), 17-4, 18-6, #59/#65: WSU won the Horizon League regular-season championship but lost in the conference tournament’s quarterfinals. To date, two teams are in the tournament — Loyola and Winthrop — and both teams bear watching in the First Round. Juggernaut Belmont was the biggest surprise, losing convincingly (by 15) to Morehead State (23-7) in the Ohio Valley finals. I watched that game and was uber-impressed with center Johni Broome, who had a double-double (27 points/12 rebounds) against the Bruins. Keep an eye on the Eagles. But it appears to be a different outcome for the Bruins. Even though Belmont won the OVC regular-season champi-

onship — and ended the year with a 26-4 record — it’s unlikely (with a #90 NET) that the Bruins will get a bid. All it took was losing one game — a big game — to blunt their chances. That may not be the case for the 25-4 Drake Bulldogs. The Missouri Valley Conference is a high-ranking mid-major, and there’s no shame in losing to Loyola in the MVC Championship game. With a relatively high NET Ranking (#37), Drake could get an at-large bid. We’ll see what happens on Selection Sunday. The biggest disappointment was Wright State. The Raiders had the best record in the Horizon League during the regular season but laid an egg in the conference tournament. At 186, WSU is out of The Dance. As for my other February picks, the future will be

determined this week during conference tournament play. The biggest game is on tap for Sunday when St. Bonaventure and Virginia Commonwealth square off in the Atlantic 10 Championship. Outstanding teams both, the loser should also get a bid to the tournament. SBU is playing with heavy hearts; the university president passed away last week, a victim of COVID-19. Every other team I picked is still in play — with Colgate the most intriguing of that bunch. The Red Raiders are ranked in the NET Top 10 (#8), which is a rarity for a Patriot League team. Barring upsets, I predict seven or more of my original thirteen teams will earn bids to March Madness, and at least one (and possibly several) will spring a coveted First Round upset.

New Monroe County Game Warden named

Dillon Gruver was recently commissioned as a Pennsylvania state game warden after 45 weeks of intensive training and assigned as the district officer for northern Monroe County. Gruver was a member of the 32nd Cadet Class of the Game Commission’s Ross Leffler School of Conservation in Harrisburg. Gruver is a 2015 graduate of Hershey High School and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in fisheries science from Penn State University in 2019.

State game wardens are responsible for administering a wide variety of Game Commission programs within an assigned district of about 350 square miles. Primary duties include law enforcement, responding to

wildlife conflicts, conservation education and administration of the Hunter-Trapper Education program. Officers also are responsible for supervising and training part-time deputy game wardens.

FINANCING AVAILABLE

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021 — PAGE 11

Greater Pocono Home & Outdoor Living Show opens at Kalahari’s newly expanded convention center March 27/28 The Pocono Builders Association’s Greater Pocono Home & Outdoor Living Show will be at the newly expanded convention center at Kalahari Resort March 27th and 28th. Innovative building and remodeling services and products will be featured at this year’s show, made possible through sponsors R. F. Ohl, Erb’s Landscaping, Advanced Concrete Systems Inc. and For The Love Of Roofing. Vendors provide expert advice on building a custom home, starting an addition,

kitchen or bath remodel or installing a HVAC system. There will be a large display of hot tubs, as well as pools and spas. See the largest display of landscape exhibits and largest number of builders and remodelers of any home show in northeastern PA. Talk with finance professionals to assist you in funding your project. As in past years, the show features a non-profit organization as part of its community outreach program. This year, it’s Breast Friends of PA, an organization dedicated to im-

proving the quality of life of female cancer patients. They will be collecting items for kits they offer to women during chemo therapy. Needed is Chapstick, hand and body lotions, cross word puzzle books, journals, coloring books, playing cards, and blankets. Children accompanied by their parents can participate in the annual seek and find Scavenger. Pick up a scavenger hunt quest sheet at the registration area at the entrance. Pocono Raceway is again this year’s prize sponsor.

You can enter a raffle to win four 300-Level tickets for the Saturday June 26 races, with a NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series Race at noon followed by a NASCAR Cup Series Race at 3 p.m. Show hours are Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 to 4. Admission is only $5 - children under 18 are free. Veterans with identification can also enter for free. All attendees, vendors and staff and volunteers must wear a mask and abide by 6 ft. social distancing. There is a separate

entrance and exit to the exhibit hall, and sanitation stations throughout the show. For more information on the show visit www Poconobuilders.org where you can also buy tickets in advance, or call 570421-9009. The Greater Pocono Home & Outdoor Living Show is presented by the Pocono Builders Association, chartered in 1970. The Association is the unified voice of the Pocono’s building industry, promoting economic development while respecting the environment and community.

Split Rock makes big furniture donation to Salvation Army The Salvation Army trucks rolled through Lake Harmony March 8 with loads of furniture donated by Split Rock Hotel by Bel Air, as resort-wide renovations continue. From sleeper sofas, tables and chairs, to stoves, and even office items like desks, resort officials felt contributing to the community outweighed any thoughts of resale. “Salvation Army’s contributions to the community across

the region gave good reason for Split Rock to propose putting the items toward a cause with real purpose — helping our neighbors in need,” said Split Rock spokesperson Jeanine Hofbauer. COVID-19 has caused disruption of in-home pickups, resulting in a shortage in furnishing shelters and under-stocking stores that sell goods to fund the nonprofit’s programs. Contribution timing

couldn’t be better. Since starting transports from Split Rock Resort March 4, sales in stores have increased. Major Mark Unruh, Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center Scranton administrator reports, “Furniture buys, plus voucher redemption to acquire items at no cost by families in need continue clearing furniture almost as fast as trucks transfer the donated items in.” “We’re very thankful to Split Rock,” said Major Gilbert Parkhurst, Corps Officer at The Salvation Army East Stroudsburg Citadel. “Need has gone up so this donation helps alleviate the challenge of providing furnishings as families transition into housing from the shelter, as well as providing furniture for the shelter.” Days more of donations will continue at the Galleria Town Center and Split Rock Lodge, as more than 274 rooms receive rejuvenation. Everything, even the kitchen sink,

Major Mark Unruh, Administrator at The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center Scranton surveys furniture donations from Split Rock as massive resort-wide renovations continue. has been removed from suites to make room for new appliances, flooring, painting and decor. “We’re delighted to know the furniture goes toward a

worthy cause as we prepare to introduce newly rejuvenated suites to our guests following the completion of this phase of Split Rock’s resort-wide room renovation,” Hofbauer says.

PAGE 12 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021

Journal Classifieds

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THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021 — PAGE 13

THEME: BASEBALL ACROSS 1. Turkey trot, e.g. 6. Dadaist Jean 9. *____ crew, Milwaukee Brewers fan base 13. Poppy seed derivative 14. Afghan monetary unit 15. Hotel room option 16. Category of artistic composition 17. Between northeast and east

18. Relating to pond scum 19. *Babe Ruth’s first major league team 21. *____-and-____ sport 23. Dog command 24. Bald eagle’s home 25. Witchy woman 28. Back wound? 30. Siskel or Ebert 35. Smoothing appliance 37. Distinctive flair 39. Stomata, sing.

40. Burlap fiber 41. Archeologist’s find 43. Estimated arrivals 44. Discompose 46. Cobbler’s concern 47. Merlin or Gandalf 48. *B in RBI 50. Close by 52. Spade for stony ground 53. Karl of politics 55. Between ready and go 57. *Left, center or right one 61. *Yankees’ only #4 64. Blast from the past 65. Crew tool 67. Helped 69. ____ one’s time, past tense 70. Schiller’s poem 71. Express contempt 72. What Simon does 73. Cut grass 74. Intoxicating DOWN 1. *Eat a hot one at the game 2. Copycat 3. *Number of standard baseball positions

4. Miss Muffet’s meal 56. Trinity 5. Vomiting 57. Small door-open6. Highest point ing devices 7. *Scoring unit 58. One of the hip8. Annapolis frosh bones, pl. 9. Tulip’s early stage 10. Capital of Latvia 11. Et alibi (2 words) 12. Water source 15. Bacchus’ attendants 20. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 22. *Baseball trajectory 24. Diver’s edible reward 25. Muslim woman’s headscarf 26. Caribbean island destination 27. Gained access to (2 words) 29. Hoppy beers 31. Individual unit 32. Bottom line 33. Idealized image 34. *Katie ____ or “____ at the Bat” 36. Empty when kids leave 38. World’s longest river 42. Cut it out 45. Moved a flock of sheep 49. Certain John’s or Jane’s last name 51. Re-use old ideas 54. Car sound, to a toddler

59. Whirlpool 60. “Big Little ____” 61. What Jack’s beanstalk did 62. It comes to mind

63. Turned to the right, like a horse 66. Commotion or fuss 68. Wine quality

PAGE 14 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021

Police Beat At 5:47 p.m. on 3-11, Pocono Mountain Regional Police responded to a car crash off Center Street in Mount Pocono, arriving to find an ’01 Honda Civic bent around a tree, with two people trapped inside. Pocono Mountain and Coolbaugh Volunteer Fire Companies responded, and extracted the pair. The 22 y/o New Jersey woman was given a life flight to trauma care at Geisinger-Wyoming Valley, but died there from her injuries. The 18 y/o Pocono Summit man was taken was given a life flight to the trauma unit at LVMC-Cedar Crest. Police determined the car was speeding along Center Ave. when control was lost. The car veered counterclockwise into the tree. An investigation continues. PA State Police – Fern Ridge investigated a call about some projectile that damaged a large front window at the Auto Zone store in Brodheadsville on 2-2, discovered when the store opened for the day. 4:38 p.m. on 2-25, PSP was called about an argument between a trio where the youngest of them, 40, grabbed the eyeglasses off the faces of the others and threw those glasses into the street by their home in Towamensing Trails, Penn Forest Twp. Police arrived, sorted things out, and arrested the 40 y/o woman on charges of harassment. PSP was called out to a Penn Forest Twp. home the morning of 2-28 for a dog

by Seth Isenberg

running loose. There were some DUI incidents, and also arrests for marijuana possession. On a stop on 3-6 in Tunkhannock Twp., police found a drugged driver, in possession of ‘multiple’ controlled substances, and who was wanted on a warrant. The 47 y/o Effort man also refused a drug test. Police took him to jail on the warrant, and the drug and DUI charges will get added at the District Magistrate’s office. Just after 8 p.m. on 3-3, a Jackson Twp. woman was reported to police for making verbal threats to PNC bank employees, so PSP located her — she will go before the District Judge charged with making Terroristic Threats. An Albrightsville man came out to his car just before 10 p.m. on 3-3, where it was parked outside Valerio’s Restaurant on Route 903, and found someone had scratched the passenger side door. No one witnesses this, and security cameras could not help. Just before 1 p.m. on 3-6, PSP made a traffic stop of an SUV that was seen failing to stop at a STOP sign. Checking the driver, and then the passenger, the driver got a ticket while the passenger was found to be wanted on a bench warrant by the Berks County sheriff’s department. The 21 y/o Wyomissing man was arrested and taken to the Monroe County jail to await extradition by Berks County.

Keeping the rubber side down and other reports

into gaining access to her bank account, and then deposited Winter weather and driving $20,096 into it — then withtoo fast came together to cause drew that amount ahead of the first deposit clearing … which a bunch more accidents. it did NOT. When she realized Add to the list some rearshe had been tricked, she came enders, with little damage to PSP-Fern Ridge, but not (one with an air bag deploybefore she had lost that ment). There was a three car money. rear-ending crash just before A Silver Maple Road, Sun noon on 2-17 (near the Burger Valley, Effort homeowner King) in Brodheadsville with came back to his weekend the SUV that started it all home on 3-6 to find that somegetting fender and front end one had broken in. A bunch of damage. No one was hurt. tools were stolen, plus a cofAND, add a VW Jetta that feemaker, a kitchen knife set struck a deer at 2:40 a.m. and a ceiling fan set, values in on 3-6 while southbound on total of about $4,000 if new. Route 903. The 19 y/o driver PSP-F is investigating and was unhurt. The crash diswelcomes leads — call them at abled the car. 570-646-2271.

Stealin’

There were a lot of scams and PennDOT notes scam attempts. On 3-1, someone claiming to be from the IRS PennDOT will continue wincalled a Jackson Twp. woman, ter roads maintenance — reporting a fraud investigation, plowing and salting where providing a warrant number and a case number. She was asked for the last 4 digits of her SS#. She gave no information and hung up, then reported the call to police. Someone opened a Verizon phone account in the name of a local 92 y/o, and ran up a bill of over $1,600. A 37 y/o Brodheadville became victim of a “relationship” fraud, where a Facebook contact began a long-distance relationship. He talked his way

Out en Op TV in the

23rd ANNIVERSARY on Blue Ridge TV 13

HOSTS: Alex & JoAnne Zidock THURS. 9:30 PM

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ALL OUTDOORS • WILDLIFE HUNTING & FISHING CONSERVATION • ENVIRONMENT

needed. Weather permitting, PennDOT contractors will be doing core boring along Route 80. Pothole patching crews are out most everywhere right now, so keep alert and slow down as you approach them. A bridge inspection team is in the area, and some bridge repairs are starting to be made. Route 715 has some shoulder work to be done, and some guiderail repairs are getting made. During winter storms, PennDOT is using their variable message boards along area roads to communicate restrictions like reduced speeds and truck bans. Restrictions are also posted on the www.511PA.com, PA’s traveler information website, as well as on smartphone apps. Motorists can sign up for alerts on www.511PA.com by clicking on “Personal Alerts” in the left-hand menu.

Obituaries

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021 — PAGE 15

FLORENCE YASENCHOCK Florence Yasenchock, 82, of her husband, John of Mary-D; and several nieces and nephPocono Lake, died Thursday, ews. March 4, 2021 at home. She The Very Reverend Father was the loving wife of Eugene DR. RICHARD MARTIN ESSER Michael J. Salnicky offered a Yasenchock, with whom she Hospital of Philadelphia, as Dr. Richard Martin Gesser, Panachida service March 8 at 67, of Pocono Manor, died Feb- well as post-doctoral research shared 56 years of marriage. Bolock Funeral Home, Cresco. Born in Mary-D, she was a at The Wistar Institute. From ruary 27, 2021 in the home he In lieu of flowers, the family 1997-2010 he worked at Merck daughter of the late Anthony loved. He was the affectionate requests that donations be Jr. and Agnes (Burnett) Research Laboratories until husband of Candace Chacona, made to the National Kidney Kotula. with whom he shared 35 years joining Sanofi Pasteur in Foundation by visiting kidney. Florence was a 1956 gradSwiftwater in 2010. of marriage. org, or the ASPCA by visiting uate of Tamaqua Area High Richard loved the Pocono Born in Flushing, Queens, aspca.org. school and a 1959 graduate of Mountains and following his New York, he was the son of Private cremation has been retirement he spent every mo- the Pottsville Hospital School the late Leo and Rosalind entrusted to Bolock Funeral of Nursing. As a Registered ment enjoying the woods and (Ertel) Gesser. Home Crematory. Nurse she worked at the forviews around his home. He Richard graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Universi- was an avid mushroom forag- mer Pocono Hospital in East Stroudsburg as well as in area er, fisherman and loved long ty of Massachusetts (‘82) and nursing homes and as a viswalks around Pocono Manor. attended Cornell University iting nurse. Throughout her He also enjoyed music and Medical School in New York, where he earned his Doctorate travel, especially to the north- years she enjoyed going to the movies, in her younger days ern California wine country. (‘86). Throughout his acawith her mother and in her In addition to his wife, demic career he was awarded later days with her children. Candace, he is survived by numerous honors including: She loved nature, especialhis adored daughters, Amelia Phi Kappa Phi, Alpha Omega ly watching the birds at her Gesser and husband, Steven Alpha, Teagle Scholar at CorCongregation B’nai Harim backyard feeder. Florence Chea of New York, New York, nell University Medical Colwill present author Roger enjoyed donating to the Nalege, Mitchell Spivak Memori- and Chelsey Miller of HampPrice via Zoom in a timely al Prize in Pediatrics, and NIH ton, Virginia; brother, Michael tional Audubon Society and dialogue from his book When the ASPCA. She was a friend of Judaism Meets Science at 7 Gesser of Fairbanks, Alaska; Physician Scientist Award. St. Nicholas Byzantine Catho- p.m. on Thursday, March 18. and sister, Karen Tuvia of He completed his residency lic Church in Pocono Summit, The book can be purchased on Miami, Florida; as well as and a fellowship in infectious and attended the former Our many other beloved extended diseases at the Children’s Kindle or Amazon at Lady of the Lake Church in family members and friends. Bookshop.org Richard was preceded in death Pocono Pines. Florence was a Register at msstolzy@aol. member of the Altar and by his sister, Debra. com with your name and email Rosary Society, and the There will be no services at address; the Zoom link will be Democratic Party Club. this time. A memorial gathersent prior to the program. She is also survived by her ing will be held at a later date. B’nai Harim is pleased to Memorial donations may be son, Michael Yasenchock offer these zoominars at no made through https://nbtsev- of Pocono Lake; daughter, charge. Voluntary contribuents.braintumor.org/richard- Patrice Yasenchock of Pocono tions are appreciated. Visit our Lake; brother, Patrick Kotula gesser. website and consider joining and his wife, Judy of Mary-D; our welcoming congregation, Private cremation has been and sister, Nelle Stremick and www.bnaiharimpoconos.org entrusted to Bolock Funeral Home crematory.

Science and religion topics of Zoom with author

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

DIVINE LITURGY (MASS) Covid 19 Schedule Call for Information

Very Rev. Michael Salnicky, Pastor (570) 595-3265

THERESA C. AKUS Theresa C. Akus, 83, formerly of Pocono Lake, went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 4, 2021, while under hospice care at Old Orchard Health Care Center in Easton where she was a resident since 2018. She was the widow of Albert Akus who died August 3, 2018. Born on December 1, 1937 in Brooklyn, NY, she was a daughter of the late William and Mary (Malverty) Davis. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the Monroe County General Hospital. She loved to dance before her illness and is now dancing on Streets of Gold. For over 30 years she and her late husband spent summers at the French Creek Marina in Clayton, NY. She was a devout Catholic and parishioner of the former Christ the King Roman Catholic Church in Blakeslee. Surviving are four children, Cheryl Silfee and husband Paul of Florida, Adele Hineline and husband Tim of Stroudsburg, Laura Longyhore and husband William Thomas Jr. of Jim Thorpe, and Albert Akus and wife Linda of Stroudsburg; seven grandchildren, Kristie, Brenda, Shaun, Charles, Jason, Jessica and Amy; eight great-grandchildren, Noah, Symeon, Kyah, Kimber, Kaitlyn, Jonathon, Tyler and Blaze; a brother, William Davis of Palmerton; three nieces; and lifelong friend June Hubert of Scranton. She was preceded in death by two children, Andrew Akus and Linda Kern; and a brother, Albert Malverty. Services were held March 8, in Stroudsburg, with burial at Laurelwood Cemetery in Stroudsburg. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances may be made to Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, National Headquarters, 6520 N. Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309.

PAGE 16 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MARCH 12–25,2021

Obituaries THOMAS D. COSTELOW Thomas D. Costelow, 80, of U.S. Steel as a millwright. Pocono Lake, died Wednesday, In addition to his wife, he February 24, 2021 at home. is survived by his sons, Brian He was the loving husband of Costelow of Morrisville, and Karen (Gabbert) Costelow. Gary Costelow and his wife, Born in Morgantown, West Lori of Levittown; grandchilVirginia, he was a son of the dren Matthew, Kerri, Ashley, late Joseph Earl and Mabel and Kristen; and great-grandRuth (Watkins) Costelow. son, Ryan. A proud veteran, Thomas There will be no services at served in the United States this time; private cremation Air Force. After his honorable has been entrusted to Bolock discharge, he spent most of Funeral Home Crematory. his working career working for MICHAEL J. CASSIERI In addition to his wife, he is Michael J. Cassieri, 73, of survived by his sons, Pocono Summit, died unexChristopher Cassieri of Staten pectedly, Tuesday, March 9, Island, and Ryan Cassieri of 2021 at home. He was the Old Bridge, New Jersey; and loving husband of Darlene daughter, Elena Cassieri of (Smith) Cassieri, with whom Staten Island; sisters, Anne he shared 44 years of marMarie Santiago of Staten riage. Born in Manhattan, he was a Island; Barbara Valente of son of the late John and Anna Staten Island, and Maryanne Guadagnino of Staten Island; (Vidmar) Cassieri. grandchildren, Tiffani and A proud veteran, Michael Giavanna Cassieri; and served in the United States great-grandson, Michael R. Army. In his youth, he played Cassieri. In addition to his and ran softball leagues in parents, he was preceded in Staten Island. He worked for death by his sister, Joanne the New York Department of Besignano, and brother, John Sanitation. After retirement, Michael and his wife moved to Cassieri. A blessing service followed the Poconos, where they have by Military Honors will be resided for the last 16 years. private. Bolock Funeral Home, He was an avid baseball and football fan and loved the New Cresco, was in charge of arrangements. York Yankees and New York Giants.

WALTER V. HAFNER Walter V. Hafner, 95, who resided in Pocono Summit for many years, died March 1, 2021. He was the husband of the late Florence E. Hafner. JOHN CLARKIN BARLIEB Born in Brooklyn, NY on and his sister and brother-inJohn Clarkin Barlieb, 79, of October 31, 1925, he was the law, Margaret and John Urda. son of the late Valentine and Tobyhanna, died on March 9, The Reverend Father Greg2021 in the family home where Lillian (Irving) Hafner. ory Loughney will celebrate a his mother was born. He was He graduated from BrookMass of Christian Burial at 11 the loving husband of Mary lyn High School of Automotive Mallard Barlieb, with whom he a.m. Monday, March 15 at St. Trades and worked for the Maximilian Kolbe Parish, 5112 Yellow Cab Company and shared 47 years of marriage. Born in Scranton, he was the Pocono Crest Road, Pocono Stroud Ford. He was a lifelong Pines. There will be visitation son of the late Calvin and NY Giants football fan. from 10 a.m. until the time of Margaret (Clarkin) Barlieb. He is survived by two daughMass. Burial will follow at John attended the former ters, Ellen Meli and her husSt. Catherine’s Cemetery, Coolbaugh High School and band, Robert, of Effort and Moscow. the University of Scranton. Lynda Stewart of Tobyhanna; In lieu of flowers, memoriHe served in the Pennsylvania six grandchildren; eight al donations may be made to National Guard and several great-grandchildren; and sevterms on the Coolbaugh Town- the Pocono Mountain Public eral nieces and nephews. ship Board of Supervisors. For Library, P.O. Box 405, Private cremation was enmany years, John was a mem- Tobyhanna, PA 18466 or trusted to the Bolock Funeral PayPal at the library website at Home Crematory in Cresco. ber on the Board of Directors poconolibrary.org. for Pocono Mountain IndusInterment will be at Gilbert tries. Cemetery in Gilbert. Since his Christening, he was a devout member of the Church of St. Ann in Tobyhanna and is now a member of Most Holy Trinity Parish in Cresco. John was a long time member of the East Stroudsburg Elks Lodge No. 319 and also very active in the Pocono Builders Association for a time. As a principal in Pobar Enterprises Inc., together with his business partner, Claude Pope, John helped develop Pobar Estates and Lexington Woods in Tobyhanna. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Major Anne M. Barlieb U.S. Army Retired of Alexandria, Virginia; nephews, Jonathan Urda and Christopher Urda. Very important and special to John were two dear friends, Bob Rossick since the first grade, and Claude Pope, his business partner and morning coffee companion. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his son, William John Barlieb