Journal of the Pocono Plateau, Late July 2023

of the POCONO PLATEAU

Court rules in favor of Tobyhanna Township

Editor’s Note: The following is a press release from Tobyhanna Township. A call for comment to Ed Tutrone, president of TTVFC#41 was not returned by press time.

Hamlin is new king of Pocono Raceway

Wins record seventh NASCAR race at Long Pond track

The great Richard Petty, the late Dale Earnhardt, and driving stars of the past like Bill Elliott, Rusty Wallace, Jimmie Johnson and even Jeff Gordon have never done it. So, who is the only driver to ever win seven NASCAR Cup Series races at Pocono Raceway? Denny Hamlin, that’s who.

A year after being stripped of his win when his car was disqualified, Hamlin drove

the No. 11 Mavis Tires & Brakes Toyota to a record seventh win at the “The Tricky Triangle” on Sunday afternoon. Performing before a sold-out grandstand crowd on the 50th anniversary of NASCAR racing at Pocono, Hamlin outlasted the field and took the checkered flag for the HighPoint.com 400.

Hamlin’s victory broke a tie for most wins at Pocono with NASCAR Hall of Famer

Gordon, and gave the Joe Gibbs Racing veteran his 50th career Cup win and handed Toyota its 600th career NASCAR National Series triumph (177 Cup, 196 Xfinity, 227 Trucks).

“Stuff like this doesn’t sit in for a while,” Hamlin said in a post-race interview.

“When you retire and you got a bunch of time, you’re sitting there on your rocker on your back porch, you’re

See HAMLIN, page 11

On July 19, 2023, Judge C. Daniel Higgins, Jr., of the Court of Common Pleas ofMonroe County issued an Order compelling Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company (TTVFC) to vacate the Tobyhanna Township owned fire houses and to return nearly all the fire trucks and equipment in their possession totheTownship. The Court also ordered the Township has the right to conduct a financial audit of the fire company to determine the amount of township tax funds held by Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company at the time they voluntarily removed themselves from service in August 2022.

On August 15, 2022, the Tobyhanna Township Board of Supervisors enacted an updated fire ordinance. The intent of the updated ordinance was to ensure fiscally sound practices were being followed whenever tax funds were utilized. The Board also felt that since tax funds were used to purchase many of the fire vehicles and

much of the equipment used by the TTVFC, the vehicles and equipment should be owned by the Township of Tobyhanna.

Once the ordinance was enacted, the Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company voluntarily removed themselves from being a recognized fire company within the township. Consequently, they were precluded from responding to fire calls within the township, however, Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company continued to respond to fire calls outside the township with the vehicles and equipment purchased with township tax funds. The Board of Supervisors felt it was inequitable and unfair for the township residents’ tax funds to subsidize this volunteer fire company to fight fires in other municipalities with the fire vehicles and equipment purchased and maintained by the residents of Tobyhanna Township.

Tobyhanna Township filed a Declaratory Judgment Action, in Monroe County Court, on August 25, 2022, seeking the return of fire vehicles and equipment purchased for Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Company by the taxpayers of TobyhanSee TTVFC, page 9

Denny Hamlin holds the Eagle trophy while celebrating with his Joe Gibbs Racing team after winning Sunday’s HighPoint.com 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway. It was Hamlin’s record seventh win at Pocono, and 50th for his Cup career. Pocono Raceway Photo

July Tunkhannock Twp. meeting short and sweet

by Lori R. Cooper

The Tunkhannock

Township July 12 Board of Supervisors meeting was brief. Announcements included that the August 1114 Elements Music and Arts Festival at Pocono Raceway “will be loud.“

No bids were received for the fence and parking lot. The township will advertise

again with bids being due by August 2.

Indian Mountain Lake reported that they have received a response from JLS Engineering regarding the members’ gate, and updates will follow.

On August 2 the Planning Commission will meet with a representative of Berkheimer Associates regarding the Amusement Tax.

From the Statehouse

Data is being collected on the procedure other townships use for solar panel permits in order to devise a Township permit plan.

Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department report included that as of July 26 PMRPD will become certified as an “elite police force,” only one of 28 in the state. Four new officers joined the force. For the month, 164 calls

Your input needed for Older Adults Master Plan

By Rep. Jack Rader (R-Monroe)

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging is currently gathering input on the Master Plan for Older Adults, a 10-year, state-led and stakeholder-driven strategic plan designed to help transform the infrastructure and coordination of services for older residents in the Commonwealth.

The department has created a webpage dedicated to the master plan at www. aging.pa.gov, which provides information on why one is

needed, the core tenets, how input will be gathered for the plan, resources and more.

Individuals who would like to submit input on the plan can either email AgingPlan@ pa.gov, , provide feedback through an online form available on its website at, or send mail to:

Pennsylvania Department of Aging

c/o Master Plan

555 Walnut St., 5th Floor Harrisburg, PA 17101

Additionally, all Pennsylvania residents will have an opportunity to participate

in the development process. The Area Agencies on Aging and the Centers for Independent Living will host listening sessions where the public can learn about the plan and submit input. The stakeholder engagement process will involve outreach and requests for feedback from anyone or any group with a vested interest.

were received. Tunkhannock Township is under 184 hours for the month and 530 year to date.

Tobyhanna Township Volunteer Fire Department responded to 126 calls this year and met with EMA about Polk and Tobyhanna Fire Departments helping with the race weekend at Pocono Raceway.

Clymer Library will hold its annual brunch and house tour on Wednesday, August 2. Tickets for the tour and brunch are $55 and just the tour, $30. Tickets are available for $10 for a basket of cheer. The winners will be announced at the brunch.

From July 24-27 the library has partnered with the United Way to give away backpacks with school supplies.

The next meeting of the Board of Supervisors will be Wednesday, August 9, at 7 p.m.

LEGAL NOTICE

Abandoned Auto Auction 8:00 a.m.

Saturday, July 29, 2023

Jimmy’s Auto Service 5256 Route 115 Blakeslee, PA 18610 570-646-2583

2005 Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3L, V8 (325CI) VIN(T)

Vin# 1GNEK13T4 5J109727

Minimum bid $501

Sold in “as is” condition No keys

2004 Ford Explorer 4L, V6 (244CI) VIN(E)

Vin# 1FMZU72E6 4UB79314

Minimum bid $1,001

Sold in “as is” condition No keys

2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 3.7L, V6 (227CI) VIN(K)

Vin# 1J4GR48K2 5C715007

Minimum bid $1,001

Sold in “as is” condition No keys

Seth’s Sightings

July has been a busy month. There has been so much to do, and we did a lot.

During the Hot times, there were lines of people at our local ice cream stands trying to keep cool during the hot–hot days. High temperatures and humidity kept many of us inside, near air conditioning.

I’ve been watching temperatures in Texas and Arizona, and back in California north of Sacramento where my dad used to live. Temps climbed to 100° plus.

We kept our outdoor activities short, leaving the air-conditioned car only for live music.

Last weekend, we started our fun by stopping at the local fireman’s carnival for some food and to hear the band. On Saturday, we drove to attend Martin on Main in Nazareth to hear various artists (many of whom work for Martin Guitars). We arrived after driving through

by Seth Isenberg

a rainstorm to a damp festival but in good spirits as the rain had stopped… then the sun came out. Earlier in the month, we attended the InterTribal Pow-Wow in Drums, followed by a visit to church festival for lunch and a try at their great Tricky Tray, followed by a ride to an event

we’ve been trying to get to for several years, the Benton Rodeo. The rotten weather from the previous day nearly scared us off. There was still a possibility of a storm, but when it came time for the rodeo to start, all was calm. We watched some bull riding (more like cowboy throwing) and saddle bronc,

and then came a bit of rain not a thunderstorm. Some of the crowd fled for cover, while the rest of us stayed put. There was ladies’ breakaway roping going on… so if they could compete in the rain, we could cheer them on. The rain quit after about 15 minutes, leaving

my front and top wet, and the rest of me mostly dry. I was damp but comfortable by the time the second round of cowboy throwing–bull riding. This round, one of the six stayed on to get a qualified ride so Bulls 11-Cowboys 1. As a p.s., See SIGHTINGS, page 5

Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow Photo: Ruth Isenberg

Benton Rodeo Photo: Seth Isenberg

Sightings

Continued from page 4

the bulls and saddle bronc horses were beautiful.

The Benton Rodeo is in its 38th season. It’s a big arena with bleachers nearly all the way around. Tickets were $18, $14 for seniors. Parking is $5 and once you are in, you stay to wait for the parking lot to clear.

Another note, the food prices were great $5 for a burger, $4 for a raspberry milkshake, for example. We plan to go back next year.

On NASCAR race weekend, our chance to see ARCA racing got rained out with the rain starting just before race time. It poured for about 10 minutes, and I took shelter under the grandstand. The sun came out after the dousing, but the race had been postponed until 8:30 in the morning on Saturday. I wasn’t going to get up that early.

Ruth and I shared Saturday afternoon at the raceway, enjoying some Fan Fair kudos to the Geico NASCAR history display and some racing.

While in line for a milkshake, we saw race car driver Sammy Smith meet a young fan, about 7 yearsold, who was wearing a Sammy Smith t-shirt. He in line ahead of us, and had the shake before walking nearly straight into Smith. The kid

was ‘over the moon’ excited and got a few minutes with his hero, and pictures.

The truck race was particularly exciting. The Xfinity race was fun, but we had to leave before the checkered flag in order to arrive at the Pocono Mountains Music Festival event that evening at Pocono Mountain East High School. The show that night featured singer Christine Andreas and her husband and accompanist Marty Silvestri. It was wonderful, and so too was this year’s run of performances. We are lucky to have such an event locally.

Sunday’s NASCAR race enjoyed beautiful Pocono weather, and a fine race that ended with Denny Hamlin holding the checkered flag. We left a bit early to avoid being hemmed in the raceway parking lot, instead getting hemmed in as Route 115 filled up its three lanes and came to a stop, but even that didn’t last too long

before traffic was converted to two lanes north from Route 903.

Sightings include the gorgeous full “supermoon” rising through the clouds on Monday night.

There are fawns and more fawns all around. There are also some nice bucks around we sighted one bouncing, kicking and twisting in front of several females.

We’ve been visiting several local farms to get some farm grown eggs and vegetables including local sweet corn, and add to our flowering plants. On one visit, I sighted a hummingbird who came to sample flowers, and dine at their feeder. It was large and plain, so likely a female. It hovered a bit, then after feeding sped away.

As July heated up, I heard my first June bug of the summer a sound I associate with August at summer camp.

At the end of my day this

past week, I was unpacking the car to go in the house when I encountered a doe quietly walking down the alley toward me, getting a little too close. I turned to go into our garage, and she turned into a yard two houses up from me.

If you have your own critter sighting or story, and would like to share it with me, send it along to journalseth@pa.metrocast. net marked as Sightings.

This week is the Mahoney Brothers’ Beatles and More free shows at Knoebels through Sunday the 6th three shows a day with two of those in the evening. We are trying to attend two shows see you there?

Musikfest starts August 4 with loads of shows, free and ticketed, through the 12th.

The end of this season’s PA Shakespeare Festival draws near. We’ve enjoyed terrific performances in DeSales U.’s air conditioned theaters. For their end of season, shows are daily to the 6th.

The Carbon County Fair starts Monday the 7th and runs to Saturday the 12th. On that Saturday is the 4-H Youth animals auction something Ruth and I always find fun, supporting the kids.

As the weather has cooled the nights are tolerable again. Here’s to cool nights for comfortable sleeping. Good health to you all.

HOSTS: Alex & JoAnne Zidock

Scout proposes trail revitalization in Mt. Pocono

by Patrick Albano

Marshall Aleksich, representing Boy Scout Troop 89, gave Mount Pocono borough council members an update on his Eagle project to clean up a wooded path within the borough and make it more accessible to the public during the August 1 council meeting. Aleksich plans to begin fundraising for the project soon but needs approval by the Board.

Mayor Randy Altemose said, “I think your project is great and I applaud you. We had a similar project years ago that went terribly wrong, so please notify the Board of any changes to your plan and let us know of your progress.”

Aleksich gave no specific timetable for completion but indicated he will start the project in October.

President Don Struckle

added, “You’re asking for $1,300. What if you do not get that amount?” and Aleksich replied, “If necessary, I will fundraise and support with my own funds.”

The board also approved closing certain roads for the upcoming Harvest Fest on September 23. In coordination with PennDOT this will allow vendors to set up for the event.

Discussion on the Gateway Concept Plan was introduced by new borough manager Marissa Duffy indicating the board has several options. Mayor Altemose asked the board to table this for the next work session.

A $60,550 utility vehicle truck purchase was approved for the road crew.

The board accepted the resignation of Planning Commission chair Michael Penn. Council member Ann M. Harris, who is also a member of the Planning Commission, asked to note in the record she felt her reluctance to send certain documents resulted in Penn’s resigning for political reasons. A motion then passed to advertise for a new member.

Mayor Altemose mentioned storm runoff in July at borough intersections, adding “we took the lead, got the word out quickly and resolved the problem within two hours.” Altemose thanked all volunteers for their effort.

Duffy stated, “I am still settling in as borough

manager,” adding, “the borough issued 6 enforcement notices, 2 citations and there is an upcoming public hearing on 56 Pine Hill Rd.” Bills of $226,615.43 were approved for payment, with council member Norm Delano abstaining.

Hal Harris, president of Mt. Pocono Rotary Club asked the board for help in locating a new meeting place as they no longer meet at Bailey’s Café. Mayor Altemose indicated this request should be presented at a work session. Harris also mentioned Rotary is waiting on a tree project grant. Finally, Harris indicated Rotary might be able to assist Marshall Aleksich in his fundraising efforts.

Police Beat

7-25, PA State Police from Fern Ridge and Hazleton, and multiple fire companies were dispatched to the site of a Bradstreet Circle home that had exploded at about 9:20 a.m. Investigation by the Troop N Fire Marshal found it was a propane related explosion, and nothing suspicious was determined. No one was home at the time there were no injuries.

7-24, Troopers interviewed a 15 y/o girl who was the subject of a Child Line report about abuse. The report was that of threats of beatings, withholding food, and clothes. The victim admitted to police that

by Seth Isenberg

she falsified the report to minimize the trouble she was in for getting kicked out of summer camp. The file was closed, marked unfounded.

7-10, 8:39 p.m., Pocono Mountain Regional Police were called to a domestic dispute at a Stillwater Estates home. As police were arriving to the development, they saw the suspect drive out. A traffic stop was attempted, but the suspect would not stop. A pursuit throughout Pocono Summit, and Mt. Pocono, led to a vehicle stop in Pocono Township once stop sticks were deployed to puncture his tires. He was then arrested.

PMRPD’s report shows that

the 36 y/o man threatened family members with an axe, attempting to strike a few which became a fight from which he fled in his car. Police took him to Lehigh Valley HospitalPocono to be examined for an injury. He was released from the hospital on 7-11 to the Monroe County Jail. He is charged with aggravated assault, terroristic threats, and fleeing and eluding police.

A 56 y/o Jim Thorpearea man is charged with shoplifting 11 cigars from a Brodheadsville store (one of the cigars was worth over $90, and another $55) – filed 7-19.

7-18, PSP-F responded to a domestic incident

in Albrightsville where a 61 y/o had gotten into an argument with his 81 y/o mother-in-law. When police were on scene, he tried to leave the house and also refused to provide identification. This got him arrested and he then resisted arrest. Charges are filed at the local District Judge’s office.

7-16, PSP investigated the vandalism of the former golf course clubhouse on Stony Mountain Road in Penn Forest Twp. Vandals destroyed a bathroom, metal ductwork, and broke a skylight. Anyone with information is asked to call PSP-F HQ at 570 646-2271.

PSP-F cited two Chestnuthill Twp. businesses for having nine and 12 false alarms at their properties during the past 12 months.

Keeping the Rubber Side down

7-26, 3:30 p.m., an Effort local was driving her car south on Route 715 when she was passed by a car towing a utility trailer, but the end of the trailer hit the left front of her car. The car and trailer drove off, perhaps not knowing of the collision. PSP is seeking to identify the hit-and-run driver. Any witness or anyone with information is asked to call PSP-F HQ at 570 646-2271.

7-22, a Freeland driver

on Towamensing Trail in Albrightsville lost control of his ’15 Ford Explorer and crashed into a utility pole about 3 p.m. Lehighton Ambulance transported the 30 y/o to St. Luke’s Carbon Hospital for treatment of minor injuries sustained in the crash. The Explorer was towed.

7-17, a Jetta on its roof? Just before 7 a.m., the 35 y/o Kunkletown woman driving the Jetta north on Route 715 was distracted by a text, and lost control of the car. It clipped, a utility pole and then rolled over onto its roof in the northbound lane. She was hurt, and she was also DUI. LVH ambulance took her to LVH-Pocono for treatment and a blood draw. A ticket for the crash, and for the suspected DUI, went with her – PSP-F. PSP also reports a handful of DUIs.

PennDOT

Paving and patching crews are out on Routes 940 and 534 these weeks. Look for bridge repair crews on Interstate 80 where traffic may be reduced to one lane.

PennDOT is beginning job fairs to recruit plow drivers and winter staff, but also to find good yearround people.

Raymond C. Hebden new president & CEO at Citizens Savings Bank

Raymond C. Hebden was recently named as president & CEO of Citizens Savings Bank. A veteran with over 25 years of financial services industry experience, having worked previously as a CEO at two credit unions. Hebden has held numerous leadership positions in local financial institutions and has an extensive background in all lending and lending operations.

“We’re confident that Mr.

Hebden can guide our bank into the future. He has a great track record of strategic insights and growth,” said Douglas G. Allen, chairman of the board.

Hebden has been an active member of several local Northeastern PA community organizations, such as Lackawanna, Luzerne and Montgomery Chambers of Commerce, a member of the Mayfield Crime Watch, the Honesdale Area Jaycees, and a coach on various local school district sports teams.

Hebden earned his undergraduate degree in business administration from Wilkes University. He attended the PA Banker’s Association

Advanced School of Banking at Bucknell University and the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Pennsylvania. He also successfully completed the Wayne County Leadership Program.

Hebden states, “It is an honor and a privilege to be

chosen as the next leader of Citizens Savings Bank. I am excited to work with our talented management team, employees and board of directors to continue our commitment to serving Northeast PA as we have done for over 120 years. Together, we will continue to build lasting

relationships with our customers.”

Hebden resides in Greenfield Township with his wife Lisa. They have two adult children.

Citizens Savings Bank has multiple locations throughout Lackawanna, Wayne, and Monroe Counties.

Continued from page 1

na Township, the vacation of the township owned buildings being occupied by the fire company, and a financial audit of the fire company.

Testimony and evidence at the hearings held December 9, 2022, and December 20, 2022, revealed the Township residents funded the volunteer fire company with nearly

two million dollars in tax funds and services over the past several years.

With this decision the Board of Supervisors looksforward to continuing to improve fire protection service, to the residents and visitors of the township, through the Pocono Summit Volunteer Fire Company and the newly formed Tobyhanna Township Bureau of Fire.

Thousands of students receive backpacks & supplies

Successful program more than triples number of

Pocono Mountains United Way is delighted to announce the return of its highly successful Back-to-School Backpack and School Supply Drive for 2023. Following last year’s immense popu-

The Bag Sale Is Back!

larity, where 500 backpacks were distributed to students, it became evident that the demand was even greater. This year, in collaboration with 10 generous sponsors and over 17 local agencies, Pocono Mountains United Way is thrilled to distribute an unprecedented 3,100 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to students in Monroe County. Distribution of the backpacks and school supplies will take place at locations

such as local libraries, food pantries, and community organizations, ensuring that assistance reaches students across the county. By fostering partnerships with these community institutions, Pocono Mountains United Way remains committed to making education accessible to all.

For further details on distribution locations, dates, at times, parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to visit www.pmuw.org/education/backpacks.

Mac n Cheese entrants listed

Local restaurants are set to compete in Friends of Clymer Library’s “Friends Fest/Mac n Cheese Bake-Off” on Saturday, August 12, the last day of its annual Book Sale. The audience will be able to taste all the recipes and select a winner. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes will be determined by three guest judges. In addition to the macaroni and cheese, soft drinks and water will be provided.

The mac n cheese bakeoff contestants include Lake Naomi Club, Murph’s Hideaway, Chat-n-Chew Café, Timber Trails Grill, The Original Bailey’s, Bill Nathan and Roy Elkin, and Bambi Zutell. Prizes for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the audience choice winners include gift cards from Walmart, Giant Food Stores, Weis Markets, Papa Santos, Dominick’s Pizza, five rounds of mini-golf at 940 Golf N’ Fun, and a round of golf at Pinecrest Lake Golf and Country Club.

The Fest, an event for kids

and adults alike, will be held on the Clymer Library’s tented parking lot from 2-4:30 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated.

The Book Sale will be held Thursday, August 10, 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m., and Friday, August 11 and August 12, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. inside the library. Clymer Library is located at 115 Firehouse Road, Pocono Pines, PA. For more information: friendsofclymerlibrary@gmail.com or 570-646-0826

The Friends Fest will also include live music by the vocal and accordion SheilaMark Duo Gigroster™, caricatures by Julia Borysowski, and face painting by Crystal Klein.

During the Friends Fest, the audience is invited to stop in at the Book Sale, where books, audio books, CDs and DVDs can be purchased for prices ranging from 50¢ to $5. All proceeds from both events will benefit Clymer Library.

Happening at the Hauser Nature Center in Long Pond

Wednesday, August 9, 10 a.m. – 12p.m.| Mushroom Foray with Dave Wasilewski

Dave Wasilewski, local mushroom expert and President of the Wyoming Valley Mushroom Club, invites the community to learn all about the fungi of Long Pond. Dave will guide participants on a hike along Cathy’s Trail to discover what types of mushrooms grow here and distinguish between poisonous and edible species. Outdoor program, ages 12 and up. Hauser Nature Center.

Saturday, September 16 - Save the Date. | Hauser Open House and Monarch Butterfly Tagging

Join us at Hauser Nature Center for a celebration of our return to programming. This fun-filled day will include guided walks around our meadow trail, yoga in the orchard, and celebrating pollinators through monarch tagging, making seed bombs, and native bee house building. Participants will have the opportunity to assist with tagging monarchs to support the citizen

science efforts of Monarch Watch. Indoor and outdoor activities, all ages. Hauser Nature Center.

Thursday, October 5, 10 a.m.- 12p.m. | Fall Foliage Paddle

It’s leaf peeping season. Come enjoy a peaceful

September 3

paddle in the Poconos and the glorious fall colors in Northeast Pennsylvania. We’ll meet at the lovely Brady’s Lake. Bring binoculars for the chance to see some feathered friends along the way. Experienced paddlers suggested. BYO kayak or canoe. Outdoor

Blakeslee Rotary hosts Car

Show at Pocono Raceway

The annual Blakeslee Rotary Car Show returns to Pocono Raceway on September 3. In case of rain, the event will be moved to September 4. This year’s show promises to be even bigger and better, featuring more vendors, food trucks, spacious show vehicle parking areas, and a lively DJ. Don’t miss out on the chance to participate in tricky trays, and bring your kids along to enjoy the world-class playground on site. There will be a total of 9 awards up for grabs, with 3 awards per category and a coveted Best in Show award. The gates open at 10 a.m., and admission for spectators is free.

If you wish to showcase your vehicle, you can register for $12 in advance or $15 on the day of the event. The first 45 participants will receive dash plaques and goodie bags.

The best part is that all the proceeds from this fantastic event will support the Blakeslee Rotary Club’s various programs, including contributions to Pocono Mountain West scholarships, Top of the Mountain Food Bank, Boy Scouts, Valor Clinic, and more.

For the latest updates and information, be sure to follow the Blakeslee Rotary Club’s Facebook Page.

program, ages 18+. Brady’s Lake, Monroe County. Contact Josie Marino to register at josie.marino@tnc. org. Registration is required and limited.

For outdoor programs, please dress appropriately for the weather and for walking on uneven ground. Sturdy, close-toed shoes are recommended.

There is a $5 suggested donation per person, unless otherwise noted. All youth must be accompanied by an adult.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the event to checkin. Directions and additional information will be provided when registering for event. Support for these events comes from our members.

Wood Art Exhibit in August

Photographer Matt Giambra and woodworker Drew Wagner have teamed up to exhibit their outstanding work at Monroe County Conservation District’s Kettle Creek Environmental Education Center. Matt’s photographs will feature a nature theme and Drew’s woodworking is made from wood sustainably sourced from local trees and mills. Their artwork will be on display for the month of August.

For more information, call (570) 629-3061. For information on other programs visit www. mcconservation.org.

Hamlin

Continued from page 1

thinking about, ‘What have I accomplished, right, in the sport?’ These things take a long time to sit in. They really do. We’re in the heat of the moment now. It takes time.

“I never thought I’d get an opportunity in the Cup Series. Luckily, J.D. Gibbs took a chance and Joe Gibbs took a chance on me nearly 20 years ago. To get my 50th win, it comes down to the track that I got my first, it certainly is special.”

Hamlin’s record-setting win didn’t come without some controversy. On a restart with just seven laps to go, Kyle Larson was in the lead and on the outside in the No. 5 HendrickCars.com

Chevrolet, and a charging Hamlin came up on his side panel. The two made contact that forced Larson to brush the wall and ended his hopes of contending for his first win at Pocono.

Larson was relegated to a 20th-place finish and wasn’t too happy about it. He and Hamlin are friends off the track, however, Larson said Sunday’s incident would cause him to race Hamlin differently. “I’ve been cost a lot of good finishes by him throughout my career,” Larson said “At this point I think I have to. I’ve never had to apologize to him about anything, anything I’ve done on the racetrack. I can count four or five times where he’s had to reach out to me, ‘Oh, man, I’m sorry I put you in a bad spot there.’ Eventually,

like he says, you have to start racing people a certain way to get the respect back.

“I haven’t done that to Denny, so I don’t think I deserve to be run into before I ever got to the wall,” Larson said. “So, it is what it is.” Hamlin felt otherwise. “He’s ran me off a bunch of road courses and called me and said sorry. I said, ‘I’m going to stand my ground next time,’” Hamlin explained. “There was a lane. He missed the corner first and, evidently, he didn’t have his right-side tires clean. When he gassed up, he just kept going again. You know, you have an option in those positions to either hold it wide open and hit the fence or lift and race it out. Those are the choices they made. I didn’t hit either one of ‘em.

Didn’t touch ‘em.”

Hamlin said he raced Larson respectfully. “If I’m going to give anyone the respect, it’s Kyle Larson just because I respect him as a race car driver, and I think he’s probably the best,” Hamlin said. “Certainly he’s got my respect. But, damn, I mean, we’re all racing for a win. I guarantee you, roles reversed, it goes the same way.”

Hamlin still had plenty of work to do as he was faced with a final restart in the 160-lap race with the likes of Kevin Harvick, Martin Truex Jr. and Tyler Reddick lined up behind him. Hamlin jumped out to a strong restart with JGR teammate Truex Jr. in tow. Reddick was moving as well, moving

up to third with two to go and then passing Truex Jr. with one lap remaining.

Hamlin, who led the final seven laps, had a comfortable lead at that stage and a spin by Ryan Preece on the white flag lap forced the race to finish under caution. Reddick finished second while Truex Jr. was third. Harvick, the leader among active drivers for career starts at Pocono Raceway, took fourth in his 44th and final start at the Long Pond track. Rookie Ty Gibbs rounded out the top five with a career-best finish in the No. 54 Toyota. After Pocono, Larson is tied with Kevin Harvick for seventh place in the Cup Series points standings, 110 points behind leader Truex Jr.

Earns Masters at Adelphi

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Sherol Wiltshire of Tobyhanna was among the undergraduate and graduate students recently awarded degrees at Adelphi University, including those who completed degree requirements. Wiltshire earned a Master of Science.

Adelphi held its 127th commencement ceremonies to recognize graduates on May 23 at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York.

Readers—want your organization’s activities featured in these pages? Send news tips, press releases and photos to the editor at journalruth@ pa.metrocast.net, or call 570-215-0204 xt2.

Call today for a free quote! 866-924-2397

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Area Funerals

GORDON LOWRY HARRELL

Gordon Lowry Harrell, 82, of Pocono Lake, passed away in his home on Monday, July 24, 2023. He was born on September 10, 1940 in Galveston, Texas.

Gordon was the beloved husband of Martin Pizzuti, with whom he has shared his life for over 30 years.

Gordon is known for Great Performances: Dance in America (1976) and The CBS Festival of Lively Arts for Young People (1973). He was a talented conductor and director of music for many Broadway shows throughout his career. Gordon shared his positivity with all that he crossed paths with. Above all, he was courageous and kind.

In addition to his husband, Martin, Gordon will be lovingly remembered by a host of cousins, friends and extended family members.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Frieda, and many beloved aunts and uncles. Private cremation services have been entrusted to Bolock Funeral Home of Cresco.

Thomas Earl Berger, 70, of Brodheadsville, passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at St. Luke’s Hospital-Monroe Campus.

He was the loving husband of June Hennet Berger. They celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary in February.

Born in Easton, he was the son of the late Norman E. Williams and the late Eleanor (Shafer) Williams.

HOWARD SHICK JR.

Howard Shick Jr., 79, of Mount Pocono passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at home. He was born in Appenzell, to Howard Shick Sr. and Lorraine (Warner) Shick Kraft.

Howard was a hardworking man who began his career as a mechanic for Peterbilt in Bartonsville and moved on to open his own business, Howard’s Towing and Repair, which operated for 26 years until he retired.

He enjoyed camping trips with his children, riding his motorcycle, traveling in his motorhome, going to auctions, and adding to his Winross truck collection.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Margaret (Law) Shick; his daughter Laura Rizzo and her husband

Stephen of Tannersville; grandchildren Gillian Schwartz and her husband Todd of Saylorsburg, Michael Rizzo and Rebecca Rizzo of Tannersville; and his five sisters, Beverly Koerner of Appenzell, Bonnie Duffy of Tobyhanna, Linda Rau of Stroudsburg, and Peggy Anderson and her husband Terry of Branford, FL, and his stepsister Martha Winters and her husband Dan of Philadelphia. He is preceded in death by his parents and his son Jonathan Shick.

A memorial service was held on July 29 at the home of his daughter Laura Rizzo.

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

THOMAS EARL BERGER

Thomas was a member of Christ Hamilton United Lutheran Church. He was also a Vietnam Army veteran.

He graduated from Pleasant Valley High School in 1972. In the beginning of his career he owned and operated TBM co-op for several years. He then went on to work as an estimator for Dugan and Marcon in Fogelsville. Later, he worked as a commercial masonry contractor for RA Tauber in Fogelsville for 20 years before retiring in 2007. He recently earned his 50-year masonry union pin.

Thomas had a love for racing cars. He raced at the 1/4 mile strip in Wind Gap with his 1955 Nomad wagon. His favorite car he owned was the 1957 Chevy, known to him and everyone as the “Pink Pig”.

He was an avid artist and collector.

Most of all, he adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren, and had a unique love for sharing M&M’s with them. Thomas was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, godfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all his friends and family.

In addition to his wife, June, he is survived by three daughters, Arica Pfeiffer and her husband Robert Dietrich, Aarin Getz, and Adrienne Lopresti and

her husband Jonathan; a brother, Russell Berger and his wife Nancy; two sisters, Nancy Shoemaker and her husband Ronald, and Sandy Berger and her husband Marvin; a goddaughter, Jennine Guccio-Hafner; a godson, Shane Kresge; seven grandchildren, Nathan and his wife Bethany, Brandon, Robert Jr., Laura and her husband Stanley, Kyle, Emma, Dean; two great grandchildren, Khazaria, and Keziah; a baby boy great grandson on the way, Khayde; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Justin Pfeiffer, a great-grandson, Isaac Williams, a brother, Richard Berger, and a son-in-law, Jason Getz.

Memorial services were held July 22, at Christ Hamilton United Lutheran Church, Stroudsburg. Interment of the cremated remains will be scheduled on a later date at the convenience of the family in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

June and her family would like to give a special thank you to the wonderful staff at St. Luke’s and Brookmont Nursing & Rehabilitation for the wonderful care they gave to her husband.

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

Area Funerals

FRANCES IRENE ROON

Frances Irene (Skinner) Roon, 74, of Mount Pocono, passed away on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at Lehigh Valley Hospice House.

Born in Jackson, Mississippi she was the daughter of the late Robert and Hazel Clementine (Aldridge) Skinner. Frances was the beloved wife of Thomas Roon with whom she shared 30 years of marriage.

Frances had an overabundance of love for her family and above all, she had an unwavering and deep relationship with God and

her faith.

In addition to her husband, Thomas, Frances will be lovingly remembered by her children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews and extended friends and family whose lives she touched in so many ways and loved dearly. Frances is preceded in death by two siblings.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

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

Sweet Discourse mixes learning and social time at St. Maximilian Kolbe

hosted the first of 12 monthly Encounter Nights on Thursday, July 27. Led by author, theologian and Administrator, Reverend Fr. Paschal Mbagwu, the evening began with a lecture on the “Eucharist as Worship.”

The event entitled Sweet Discourse, included the lesson itself, followed by a question & answer period and a dessert social. Sweet Discourse evenings will be held on the 4th Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Parish Hall through July 2024.

As part of the Year of Parish Eucharistic Revival, St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish

Out in the Open

by Alex Zidock

Revenge! I took a clear shot glass and inverted it over the mosquito on my forearm. She was gorging herself on my blood. “I’ll fix you, you little bloodsucker,” I told myself. I flexed my muscle because I heard somewhere that you can trap a mosquito’s proboscis in your skin while she’s sucking your blood. The theory is she will eventually explode. Sounds reasonable! Really?

Mosquitoes have two little pumps in their heads to extract blood using six

micro-needles she sticks into your skin. She also has a nerve in her abdomen that shuts off the pumps in her head to stop filling her belly when it’s full.

I say “she” because only the female bites for blood.

As long-ago news commentator Paul Harvey would say, “Now for the rest of the story.”

You cannot make a mosquito explode by trapping its proboscis in your skin.

However, when researchers severed the nerve in one of the bugger’s abdomen, her little pumps kept pumping, and the bloodsucker did

Puzzle Answers

overfill and explode.

I and mosquitoes have a lot in common. We like beer and women, and we operate best at 80 degrees. But they love me, and I hate them.

There are upwards of 3,500 species of mosquitoes worldwide, and about 150 different species have been identified in the United States. While most mosquitoes are vegetarians and rather suck sugar from plants, only the female is a bloodsucker. They bite, and I welt up. I get welts on my arms so big my friends think I’ve been bulking on Wheaties and weights.

Mosquitoes, like all insects, are cold-blooded and, as a result, cannot regulate their body temperature. Basically, their temperature is the same as their surroundings. They hibernate in winter, can’t function below 50 degrees F but relish the balmy 80s. From the first warm summer afternoons, the pregnant females fly with a mission. They need protein in mammal blood to nurture their eggs to maturity.

As soon as I open the patio door, females detect my body emitting carbon

dioxide from 100 feet away. They attack. They land. They stick their proboscis through my epidermis. If I’m lucky, I swat before they spit saliva into me. If I’m slow on the swat, that saliva contains an anticoagulant that keeps my blood from clotting while they suck it up. Other allergic stuff in the spit triggers a release of histamine that causes itching and swelling.

And I’ve learned female mosquitoes are more attracted to those who drink beer and to pregnant women. Studies are unsure why they like beer drinkers, but it seems pregnant women produce more carbon dioxide, attracting mosquitoes. Their body temperature is higher,

and that also attracts mosquitoes.

Besides the bumps and itching, mosquitoes transmit at least five different diseases. The best known is Malaria. West Nile virus is on the rise in North America. Lesser known conditions include dengue fever, yellow fever, and encephalitis.

You can do lots around your house, like making sure there are no old tires, tin cans, or other vessels that collect rainwater where females deposit eggs for incubation. If it’s a small pond or birdbath on your property, you can buy a product that is harmless to birds and animals but kills the mosquito larva. Swat!