The Pittston Dispatch 01-01-2012 by The Wilkes-Barre Publishing Company

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Flood is top story

Santa visits Wyoming

Dispatch takes a look back at news stories of 2011.

Library plays host to community Christmas party.

>> PAGE 3

>> PAGE 6B

Sunday, January 1, 2012

WILKES-BARRE, PA

PHOTO BY BILL TARUTIS

Happy New Year! to all my family, friends and clients... from the law ofﬁces of

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Happy New Now January 1. New Year’s Day. What a perfect time for reflecting on the year gone by and making plans for the one to come. But you won’t catch me doing any of that. I’ve worked too hard mastering the art of living in the moment – living in the “now” – to throw it away, even at the start of a New Year. I prefer to think of my life as one long succession of starting not new years but new moments. The moment is perfect. The moment is peaceful and calm and in it I can do anything. Indeed, it’s the only place I can do anything. The only place I ever have. The past is gone; the future yet to come. What’s left? “The now” is what’s left. The moment. The moment has no past and it has no future. And that’s what makes it great. In the moment I’m always

INSIDE

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Ed Ackerman, optimist

eackerman@psdispatch.com

brand new. In the moment I have no track record. I’ve never failed and cannot imagine myself doing so. I’ve also never succeeded, so there’s no temptation to rest on my laurels. All I can do in the moment is to give my all, my very best. I always find that I can. And I always find that it’s easy. See, in the moment I have no place to go and no schedule to keep. There’s no time-clock in the moment. In fact, there’s no clock at all, which means I have all the time in the world. In the moment the time is always the same: it’s now. And in the moment I’m always in the same place: here. Here where I belong, doing the only thing I need to do. There’s no multi-tasking in the moment. In fact, it’s impossible. My to-do list in the now has only one thing on it and one thing alone. And that’s what I do.

2011 in Review ....................................................3 Deaths of 2011....................................................7 Local Chatter ....................................................8 Matters of Faith ...............................................10 Editorial /Letters .............................................14

I love the now. Can you tell? And let me make it clear that by “the now” I don’t mean “today.” I mean now, the very moment we’re in. I don’t practice some 1960s’ “live for today” philosophy. Hardly. I live for eternity. But I do my living in the now. Hope that makes sense. I wasn’t always this way. As I said, it’s taken work. I used to do a lot – maybe most – of my living in the past. Then I came to my senses. I want little to do with the past, short of reading books or watching documentaries about history. That stuff fascinates me. It’s my past I can do without. My past is part of me, of course. It’s molded me. I get that. But do I have to keep reliving it? My past wears me down. That’s where all my failures are. My past is littered with regret. It makes me feel terrible. It’s where I’ve done all of my screwing up.

I’ve dropped fly balls in Little League games in my past. I’ve said stupid things in my past. And worn the wrong clothes. And lost loves and wasted opportunities. I’ve been hurt in my past and worse, I’ve caused hurts. My past makes me think of myself as a loser. It makes me weak. Sure there are good things back there – first kisses, babies to rock to sleep, hair to comb – and I’m grateful for all of them, but they usually only remind me that they are here no more. Who needs that? Then there’s the future. Oh my God, the future. If the past makes me weak, the future makes me afraid. And it should. The future is the domain of worry. It’s the land of “what ifs?” The ups and downs of the stock market lurk out there in the future, hiding in the same shadows as the viability of Social Security and the effect

VOL. 65, NO. 46 Peeking into the Past .....................................15 Maria Remembers...........................................16 Nutrition ..........................................................24 Santa at the YMCA..................................25, 26 PA Chorus Concert .............................2, Social

the economy will have on my lifestyle. A nuclear Iran lies in the future along with a brand new force to be reckoned with in North Korea and the fallout of the Arab Spring. Health issues await in the future – ours and those of ones we love. And, of course, death. The future can render you powerless. It can stop you in your tracks. But the moment, the now, has none of that. The moment is for renewal. The moment is for happiness. The moment is for success. The moment is for heroes. To me, the moment, the sense of now, is the best glimpse we humans get of Heaven. Because Heaven, too, is a place of no past and no future, and therefore, a place of no regret and no fear. Which makes me think Heaven is simply an eternal moment. After all, in Heaven isn’t it also always now?

Town News ......................................................34 Sports ..............................................................40 Obituaries .........................................................51 Weddings.................................................Social 1 Birthdays................................................Social 3

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September flood is Story of the Year Murder in Riverfront Park; closing of St. Mary’s School other top local stories

By Ed Ackerman and Jack Smiles

he September flood, which damaged more than 1,100 homes and affected several businesses in Greater Pittston, is considered by Sunday Dispatch staff members the Story of the Year 2011. Many are still not back into their flooded homes more than three months later. A smear of blood on a sidewalk in Pittston’s Riverfront Park in March which led to the eventual discovery of the body of Lillian Calabro, 48, on the riverbank near Wilkes-Barre and an arrest on a homicide charge is another story which captured public interest for several weeks. The closing of St. Mary’s Assumption school, dating back to 1868 and the last remaining school in Pittston City, is another top story along with the demolition of the 8th Street Bridge linking Jenkins Twp. and Wyoming. Legislative redistricting, the election of four with Greater Pittston ties to the Luzerne County Court, the upset of the incumbent district attorney by a young woman with Pittston roots, the continued progress on Main Street, Pittston, and the resignation of West Pittston Mayor Bill Goldsworthy to accept the job of running the governor’s Northeast Office were also stories of interest. A month-by-month recap of the stories that made the pages of the Sunday Dispatch in 2011 follows. January

Scenes like this were common when the Susquehanna River roared over its banks into parts of West Pittston, Jenkins Twp., Duryea and Exeter Twp. in September making the flood the Sunday Dispatch Story of the Year. FILE PHOTO BY TONY CALLAIO

they collected 48,000 pounds of food for Meals on Wheels of Greater Pittston during their annual drive. Richie Kossuth was named by the Sunday Dispatch Person of the Year for 2010. Allan and Ann Rose were selected to receive the Joseph Saporito Lifetime of Service Award. West Pittston Borough Council announced the sale of the historic Hitchner Bakery to United Community Development Corporation for $348,000 thus netting a profit of $238,000. West Wyoming was awarded a grant for $295,000 to enhance pedestrian safety along W. Eighth Street. Chuck’s Auction Service

raised $13,500 for the local People Helping People holiday program and for Toys for Tots. George Zorgo, 90, the first printer of the Sunday Dispatch, was laid to rest. Palazzo 53, a new upscale restaurant on Main St., Pittston, made a splash all year but perhaps none bigger than when movie star Paul Sorvino visited in January. The 52nd anniversary of the Knox Mine Disaster was noted with a Memorial Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church and the laying of the wreath at the Knox Memorial in Port Griffith near where the mining disaster took place in 1959. The first Dispatch “Sunday

Sitdown” of the year featured Clem Lyons, 90, a champion of rights for members of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. Pittston Twp. police introduced their newest colleague: a 3-year-old German shepherd named Rocky. Sen. John Yudichak held an open house at his new headquarters in Exeter. Pittsburgh Steelers fans went crazy at local Steelers HQ – Cuz’s Bar in Exeter – and then gathered, along with a few Green Bay Packers fans, at Pittston Area High School for a photo for the Dispatch which ran on Super Sunday. Married couples were honored

at the Feast of the Holy Spouses ceremony at the Oblates of St. Joseph Seminary. February

Longtime Steelers fan Pat Aita and longtime Packers fan Melanie Yozwiak were pictured on the front page of the Dispatch on Super Sunday. 783 local prognostications appeared inside, 469 predicting a Steelers win, and the centerpiece of the paper was all Steelers fans. West Pittston Library hosted a unique event at the former American Legion Building on Linden Street: a chance to view See 2011, Page 4

PAGE 3

In recognition of Father Hugh McGroarty’s 65th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood, Paul John Caprari, director of Professional Hearing Aid Service, presented him with a new custom “all in the ear” hearing device. Father McGroarty continued to preach for the rest of the year. Word was that his hearing may have improved but his jokes did not. Letter carriers from Pittston Post Office set a local record and placed second in the nation when

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

2 0 11 : A L O O K B A C K

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 4

2011: WA Catholic gym dedicated to Father Dan Hitchko Continued from Page 3

and even have a photo taken with life-sized cutouts of all 44 U.S. Presidents. The West Pittston Fire Department held its annual Valentine’s Day roses sale. The gymnasium at Wyoming Area Catholic School was dedicated in memory of the late Father Daniel Hitchko, pastor of St. Cecilia’s and St. John the Baptist parishes in Exeter, who died unexpectedly at age 73. Surviving family members of Spc. Dale Kridlo, who was killed in action in Afghanistan on Nov. 7, 2010, were honored guests at the Pittston Police and Firefighters Ball. It was the first of several tributes to Kridlo during the year. “Big” Gene Guarilia, former member of championship Boston Celtics basketball teams and founder and leader of the local band “The Cadillacs,” was the subject of a Jack Smiles’ Sunday Sitdown. At a tribute to late railroad enthusiast Ed Miller on the occasion of the first anniversary of his 90th birthday, it was announced that the famed Crown Ave. Tunnel would be renamed the Edward S. Miller Tunnel. The train that transports passengers from downtown Scranton to PNC Field for Scranton/WilkesBarre Yankees games passes through that tunnel. Morgan Banaszek was a silver medalist at the 2011 Pennsylvania Skating Championships, Keystone State Games, in York. Matthew Powell, an Avoca 20-year-old who has battled cerebral palsy throughout his life, took first place in an arm wrestling tournament at Diane’s Deli and Café in Pittston. Bob and Sally Adonizio were featured in a first-person account of their trip cruising on The Nile. Althea Semanchik, a Duryea native, was featured in a story explaining that she was the inspiration and model for a World War II comic strip titled “Winnie the WAC,” an acronym for Women’s Army Corps, in which she served. “Pawsitively Perfect Pet Salon”, South Main St., Pittston, had a grand opening. Lisa Woodruff opened a photography studio in Harding.

Steelers' fans at Cuz's Susquehanna Bar & Grille in Exeter knew who's number one when the Steelers earned a trip to the Super Bowl.

Kiel Eigen, Old Forge senior who spent most of his high school career in a wheelchair following a football injury, got up from his chair and walked – to thunderous ovation – to meet his parents at center court at parents night. Pittston Area cheerleaders placed second at a national competition in Florida. Pittston Ambulance Association introduced a new paramedic-staffed Advanced Life Support system described by Mike Lombardo, city councilman, association solicitor, and volunteer member, as “an emergency room on wheels.” Bob Calpin was named recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. Joseph J. Joyce Jr. was named recipient of the W. Francis Swingle Award. Paul Leonard was named Man of the Year. A 14-part Dispatch exclusive of the World War I diary of the late James J. McCarthy, of Avoca, wrapped up on Feb. 27.

FILE PHOTO BY BILL TARUTIS

March

A smear of blood on a sidewalk at Riverfront Park in Pittston in March started an investigation that led to a homicide charge. FILE PHOTO BY BILL TARUTIS

A Dispatch story revealed the work of Sgt. Meredith Burns, U.S. Marines, who reaches out to women of Afghanistan as a Female Engagement Team (FET) leader. Sgt. Burns is a West Pittston native and Wyoming Area grad. Residents of the Mill and Carroll streets section of Pittston City caused a stir claiming a significant number of cancer cases among residents of the area qualified it to be designated a “cancer cluster.” New Pittston Area head football coach Mike Barrett was welcomed by the Pittston Area Football Lettermen’s Club at a reception at The Lincoln Inn in Dupont. A group from the Pittston Memorial Library expansion committee, out to raise funds to add the John P. Cosgrove annex to the library, met in Washington, D.C., where Cosgrove, a Pittston native, worked in the media for 70 years, with Sen. Bob Casey and Congressman Lou Barletta. At a council meeting, Pittston City police department anSee 2011, Page 5

Continued from Page 4

nounced it upgraded its weapons, vehicles and computers and the fire department announced it was purchasing a new, smaller truck which will be easy to maneuver on the city’s tight side streets. A blood stain on the walkway of the City’s Riverfront Park prompted an investigation which led to an extensive search of the Susquehanna River and its banks for a body believed to be Lillian Calabro, 48, who did not return to her apartment at the Gabriel House in Pittston on March 11. On Sunday night, March 21, about 100 family and friends of

Calabro staged a candlelight vigil at Riverfront Park at the site where they believed Calabro was murdered. The next day, Calabro’s body was found on the west bank of the river just south of Kirby Park. Arthur Stoss, the person reportedly last seen with Calabro on the night of March 11, was arrested and charged with an open count of criminal homicide and jailed without bail. David Ciotola, who among other things donated a total of 92 pints of blood to American Red Cross, was named Man of the Year by the Slovak League of America Branch 474. Eileen Burns and Ellen Mon-

dlak, longtime board members, each serving for 16 years, were named recipients of the Jean Yates Award by the Pittston Memorial Library Board of Trustees. Father Paul McDonnell, OSJ, was on hand at an open house to bless the new pool at the Greater Pittston YMCA. Sisters Letitia and Miranda Warunek, Pittston Area students, organized an Emerald Isle Step Dancers performance at Pittston Area High School to benefit the Care and Concern Pediatric Health Clinic in Pittston. The event raised more than $7,000.

April

The Pittston Area Middle School Science Olympiad team, the first for the school in five years, placed 14th out of 21 teams in the Science Olympiad at the Penn State Wilkes-Barre campus. Teachers Jill Quinn and J.J. Anthony coached the team. Pittston’s pro bono city manager Atty. Rose Randazzo was the subject of a Jack Smiles’ Sunday Sitdown. A one-time Pittston Area cheerleader she’s become the city’s biggest cheerleader. At its 85th commencement, Misericordia University be-

stowed the Catherine McAuley Medal on Margaret (Peggy) Burke, founder of the Greater Pittston Food Pantry of the Care and Concern ministries of St. John the Evangelist Parish Community, Pittston. Pittston’s Shawn Klush, the premier Elvis Presley tribute artist in the world, came back to his alma mater St. Mary’s Elementary School for a visit and performed a fund-raising concert at Mellow Auditorium in Scranton to benefit the school. The concert was a rousing success but could not save the school. The

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

2011: Local Government Excellence Award for W. Wyoming

See 2011, Page 6

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SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 6

2011: Joyce insurance named Small Business of the Year Continued from Page 5

Diocese of Scranton announced it would close at the end of the school year. The school, the last remaining school in Pittston City, dated back to 1868. Members of the Wyoming Area soccer team, along with their friends, made 1000 origami cranes – a symbol of making wishes come true – and sold them for a dollar apiece to raise funds for earthquake victims in Japan. Mike Pryor is the team’s coach. The Little Sisters of the Poor presented Dolores and Michael Insalaco with the Holy Family Award at their annual Holy Family brunch. Stephanie Bartz, a Pittston Area senior, organized a “cookie walk” to benefit the Care and Concern Free Health Clinic in Pittston. For a donation, walkers were allowed to fill a basket to take home with homemade cookies. Maxwell Marcus, founder of the Exeter Historical Society, was the subject of a Jack Smiles’ Sunday Sitdown. In a case of misunderstanding, a vintage sign purchased by businessmen Mark Williamson and Ryan Ksiezopolski, who operate Yore Antiques on Main Street, Pittston, was ordered hauled away by Councilman Danny Argo. The sign was later returned. A year-and-a-half after being more than $900,000 in debt and on the verge of bankruptcy, West Wyoming officials managed to turn things around to the point where the borough was awarded the Governor’s Award for Local Government Excellence. Rep. Phyllis Mundy delivered the good news and the certificate. Pittston City hired, at a fee not to exceed $2500, the firm Diamond and Associates of Philadelphia, to help develop a targeted housing plan. The first of several modern signs were installed at businesses on Main Street in Pittston City. New signs went up at Palazzo restaurant and Yore Antiques. The signage is part of the city’s new façade ordinance. Duryea Police Chief Nick Lohman and Avoca Fire Department Sgt. Chris Collins announced the 5th annual Guns ‘n’

Sen. Bob Casey, left, and John P. Cosgrove met in Washington, D.C. as members of the Pittston Memorial Library expansion committee sought government funds for the proposed Cosgrove Annex at the library. FILE PHOTO

Hoses charity basketball game to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital was the most successful yet raising $3,000. May

Mary Sklanka, 77-year-old widow who lives at the end of a dead end street in Hughestown, had a major runoff problem on her property to deal with. Meanwhile, Sen. John Yudichak toured a flooded section of Exeter Borough. Both problems were serious enough, but nothing compared to what hundreds of residents would face come September. Community Medical Center opened its NewSteps Joint Replacement Center and Spine Unit under the direction of Dr. Harry Schmaltz, a West Pittston native. Wyoming Area Superintendent Ray Bernardi announced the district received a refund of $230,000 from the Northeast Pennsylvania Health Trust. Former Pittston mayor Michael Lombardo, a former director of the Governor’s Northeast Office, accepted a position with Quad Three Group, Inc., a full-service architectural, engineering and environmental ser-

vices firm. Father Dan Schwebs, OSJ was honored on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. Officer Dion Ferdandes (Pittston City), Officer Bonnie Guzon (Dupont Borough, Lackawanna County Sherriff’s Dept. and FSB Army National Guard) and Officer Crystal Matos (Old Forge) received new bulletproof vests from the Adopt a Cop program created by Fallen Officers Remembered. The Wyoming Area Percussion Ensemble won first place at the Chapter 7 Championships in Mill Hall making them six for six in competitions. On Mother’s Day, the Dispatch told the story of a mom, Tanya Lydon, and her two-year-old son Anthony who was born with half a heart and has undergone three major heart surgeries. Mayor Bill Goldsworthy was named Grand Marshal of the 40th West Pittston Cherry Blossom Festival. Sister Josephine Palmeri, MPF, was the keynote speaker at a Mother’s Day Communion Breakfast at the combined parishes of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St. Rocco. Downtown redevelopment in

Pittston City got a boost when it was announced $1.48 million in “slots revenue” was awarded to the city. The city redevelopment authority targeted most of the money for the acquisition and demolition of several properties in a square block area bounded by Main, Charles, Spring and Kennedy streets. Alana Aufiere was chosen 2011 West Pittston Little Miss Cherry Blossom. Chartered in 1851, Pittston Little League noted the 60th anniversary of its first opening day. Joyce Insurance was named Small Business of the Year at the 91st anniversary dinner of the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce. President Charles Adonizio gave the annual report. In May primary elections, Greater Pittston candidates Bill James and Sal Licata were victorious in earning nominations for the new Luzerne County Council while Fred Pierantoni, Mike Vough, Jennifer Rogers and Lesa Gelb garnered nominations for Luzerne County Judge. The Pittston Tomato Festival, specifically the Tomato Fights, was mentioned in Parade Magazine, a national publication which appears in the

Sunday Dispatch. Stephanie Jallen, 15, from Harding, born with only one leg and one arm, made the U.S. Paralympic team in downhill skiing. She started skiing when she was 9 years old. The annual West Pittston/Exeter Memorial Day Parade featured a fly-over in an F-18 fighter jet by Navy Lieutenant Jason Harding, a West Pittston native and Wyoming Area graduate. Lisa Lewis, the noted “Victorian Lady” of West Pittston, was the subject of a Sunday Sitdown with Jack Smiles. Sen. Bob Casey presented a $48,000 grant to the Pittston Memorial Library. It was accepted by librarian Anne Hogya. A public meeting was held at Pittston Area Middle School to discuss the possible “cancer cluster” in the Mill/Carroll streets section of Pittston City. Chris Menichini and his father Chuck Menichini had raised the question in April and believed the Butler Tunnel, an old mining tunnel, might have something to do with the unusually high cases of cancer in the area. The Environmental Protection Agency’s assurances that the Butler Tunnel has nothing to do with the situation left residents more frustrated than satisfied. A final Mass was celebrated at St. John the Baptist Church, Exeter, which was closed after 106 years. Bill Lewis, of Jenkins Twp., was named to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission by Gov. Tom Corbett. A flag that flew in Afghanistan was raised at the Upper Pittston Sportsmen’s Club in Forkston in memory of Spc. Dale Kridlo who was killed in the line of duty in Afghanistan on Nov. 7, 2010. Dale was a member of the club as is his father, Albert. June

A century-old building on S. Main Street in Pittston City was razed after extensive structural damage was uncovered. The building had most recently housed Wayne’s World, a music store. A CD of bagpipe music titled The Hero’s Call, a tribute to Pennsylvania State Trooper See 2011, Page 28

Dispatch published 1,136 obituaries in 2011 43 World War II veterans listed among dead in 2011

he Sunday Dispatch published 1,136 obituaries in 2011, 53 fewer than the 1,189 published in 2010. The highest monthly total was the first month of the year. Last January 133 obituaries were published. The lowest monthly count was in August, when 70 obits were published. The single issue with the most deaths was the second issue of the year, January 9, when 40 obits were published. The lowest single week count was the last week of July. The July 31 issue had nine obituaries. There were 43 World War II veterans among those who died last year, including four women. The 43 included only men and women who were born in the Pittston area or lived here for most of their lives. Here are just a random few of the 43 who WWII heroes we lost last year:

Notable Passings

In a community as closely knit at Greater Pittston it is difficult to single out any death as particularly noteworthy since every passing creates a ripple effect touching a number of lives. Still, in the past year death claimed several who left a unique mark on the community. Here’s a partial list of some, but certainly not all, of the notables who passed in 2011: Dan DeRoberto, Exeter, 26year member Exeter Council, Exeter Police officer, President Exeter Panthers football. Ursula Burke, 84, Pittston Area School District Health Supervisor, Secretary Upper Valley Eyebank, Red Cross volunteer nurse, former member Wyoming Area school board. John “JR” Cebula, 84, owner Cebula’s Bar and Pizza Dupont. Clem Lello, 83, past member PA school board, Dupont Borough Secretary, Cubmaster Pack 361. Guy “Doc” Fasciana founder of Doc’s Sports Bar West Pittston, the area’s original sports bar, and noted humorist. Ryan Jones, Exeter, 30, professional fiddle player in Nashville for LoCash Cowboys. Ada Rostock, West Pittston, co-founder Expresso Restaurant with husband Anthony, co-founder of WP Cherry Blossom Festival and President and Treasurer, Entertainment Director.

Michael J. McClernon, 39 West Pittston, Gold Glove Boxer and rock singer. John Gadomski, 84, Wyoming, last survivor of the Knox Mine Disaster. Elwood Richards, 47, captain of Pittston Volunteer Firefighters. John A. Adonizio Sr., 91 Hughestown, a former member of the Hughestown, Northeast, Pittston Area and Wilkes-Barre Area Vocational Boards of Education. A noted baseball player in the Suburban League. John “Beno” Borzell, 22, Magna Cum Laude Grad of Wilkes, Yellowstone researcher, Environmental Scientist, baseball and football standout at WA. Joseph Falzone, 99, downtown Pittston barber for over 70 years, founding member Emanon Golf Club. Robert Coyne, Exeter, West Side Conference football allstar, founding member of the Exeter Historical Society. Brother of the late mayor of Exeter Joe Coyne Angelo “Smitty” Shandra, Pittston, noted fast pitch softball pitcher. Played against the King and His Court and the California Cuties. 15-year Little League coach. Joseph Emma, 92, Jenkins Township, noted musician in Paci’s Band and the U.S. Army Band Leonard Cumbo, West Pittston, Italian American Association Man of Year 1994, Cherry Blossom Festival Grand Marshall 2008, Democratic Committee man, volunteer, past president of Serradifalco Society.

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Richard P. Notari, Old Forge, teacher and Athletic Director and father of Dispatch sports editor Rick Notari Sister Philip (Rita) Dzurisin, born in Pittston she grew up in St. Michael’s Church and later was a nun in Sisters of St. Basil the Great Order for 63 years. Sharon O’Brien Dugan, noted local artist Raymond W. McNulty, 64 Pittston, former Dispatch correspondent. He was a popular and funny English teacher at West Side Vocational Tech for 32 years and a coach of football, basketball, softball and volleyball. Monsignor Kevin P. O’Neill, the Avoca native was a pastor at St. Mary’s Avoca, St. John the Evangelist, St. Casmir’s and St.

Joseph’s Pittston. Matthew Stephen Peter Chipolis, 19, of Harding. Wyoming Area football player in 2010. Anthony Trotta, former Mayor of Old Forge. John David Roberts Jr., 93, a former teacher in the Pittston Area School District, where he was the school’s first athletic director. He also had the distinction of playing basketball against the Harlem Globetrotters and playing baseball against many famous athletes, such as Phil Rizzuto and Walter Alston. Captain Fred R. Demech, Jr., Moosic, was a graduate of Pittston High School. He served in the Navy for 27 years as a cryptologist. As a Navy Captain See DEATHS, Page 21

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Paul Vargo, 89, of Suscon Road, Pittston Township, was Marine who served in the Central and South Pacific area and Okinawa. His anti-aircraft unit was credited for destroying 87 enemy planes. He was the father of seven sons. Josephine Jean Remas, a Pittston native who died in Maryland, was an Army nurse who treated men injured at Pearl Harbor. Alfred T. Koytek, 87, of Dupont, served in the U.S. Navy Air Corps from 1943 to 1945. He flew numerous missions in the Pacific Theatre. He was awarded several medals for his bravery, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the nation’s third highest military award. Frank Nardone, Pittston Township, was with the 100th Fighter Wing during the D-Day Invasion. Louis Lanzone served on a Navy mine sweeper. Frank Singer, Hughestown, was an infantryman in the battle of Luzon in the Philippines. Adam Bryk, of Suscon, was a

Navy Sea Bee. Anthony Dellarte, West Pittston, served with the 75th Artillery on France and Germany.

731076

By Jack Smiles

Associate Editor

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

2 0 11 : A L O O K B A C K

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

LOCAL CHATTER

PA cheerleaders seek funds for Florida trip

The Pittston Area Varsity Cheerleaders have won a bid to the National High School Cheer Championship in Orlando, Florida. They ask the community to help them get there by taking part in “A Night At the Races” on Saturday, January 21, at 6 p.m. at the Jenkins Twp. Fire Hall The event includes all you can eat including soup, salad, pasta, meatballs, chicken strips, potatoes, vegetable, deserts, and much more. You must be at least 21 years old to attend. Cost is $5.00 at the door. Horses cost $10.00. Hughestown Notes Hughestown Borough Council will hold a re-organization meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 3, at 7 p.m. Newspapers in the borough will be collected on Tuesday instead of Monday due to the holiday. Those using Pittston City for garbage pick-up will have no change in their New Year’s collection. New garbage stickers are to be used for the Jan. 10 pick-up. Those using Pittston City for their collection must have new stickers. Anniversary Today Happy anniversary wishes go to Big Gene and Liz Guarilia, Duryea, celebrating today, Jan. 1. Birthday Notes Happy birthday wishes go to John Gonska, Wilkes-Barre, celebrating on Jan, 2, Jerry Fabian, Sweet Valley celebrating Jan. 4, Troop 303 Scout Master Leonard Sanguedolce of Pittston celebrating on Jan. 5 and Jessica Olejnik of West Wyoming celebrating on Jan. 6.

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What are you chattin’ about? Call 602-0177 or email sd@psdispatch.com and let us know.

Health Clinic The Care and Concern Adult Health Clinic will be closed until Tuesday, Jan. 3. The clinic will reopen on Wednesday, Jan. 4.

JLW Lions entertain at VA Hospital

The Joseph L. Wroblewski (JLW) Mt. Laurel Lions Club recently entertained the residents at the VA Hospital Resident Center. Dick Yurish provided accordion music and Christmas carols were sung. Donuts and coffee were distributed along with Christmas cards and bags of cookies. Anyone interested in becoming a club member can contact Joan Milligan at 823-6035 or any club member. Pictured, seated from left , are Elsie Belmont, Ann Rose and Dick Yurish, second row: Karen Daniels, Rosemary Dressler, Darlene Walkowiak, Eileen Yurish, Charlotte McAdarro, Jean Bohac and Joan Milligan.

LCCC Registration Luzerne County Community College will hold registration for spring semester classes on Saturday, Jan. 7, from 10 a.m. to noon; Monday, Jan. 9 and Tuesday, Jan. 10, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Thursday, Jan.12, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Friday, Jan. 13, from 9 a.m. to3 p.m., at the College’s campus in Nanticoke. Classes for the spring semester begin on Tuesday, Jan. 17. For more information, call LCCC at 740-0337 or 740-0340 or (800) 377-LCCC, extension 7337 or 7340.

Jenkins Twp. Notes The 2012 refuse and recycling stickers are available at the Jenkins Township Municipal Building at a cost of $52.50 and must be displayed in a visible location before Jan. 20. After this date, there will be a $10 late fee. There is a $10 discount for senior citizens and residents with a disability. The New Year’s Day schedule for collection will be on a day late schedule as follows: Monday’s schedule will be collected on Tuesday and Tuesday’s will be collected on Wednesday. The municipal offices will be closed Monday, January 2 and

will re-open on Tuesday, January 3 at 8 a.m. The reorganization meeting of the Jenkins Township Board of Supervisors will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 3, at 6:30 p.m. at the municipal building. Dance for Pets There will be a dance on Saturday, Jan. 21, from 8:30 p.m. until midnight sponsored by the Northeast Social Dance Club at The DAV Hall, 516 Storrs Street in Dickson City, to benefit Tracey’s Hope Hospice Care Program & Rescue for Domestic Animals, Inc. Admission is

$5.00 per person. Music will be provided by Jerry Dreater Productions. In addition there will be refreshments and numerous basket raffles, a 50/50, and a trip to Cove Haven in the Poconos. For more information call event coordinator, Nicole McDonald at (570) 466-7930 or if you cannot make the dance and wish to purchase raffle tickets for the Cove Haven trip, you can contact Tracey’s Hope Director, Denise Kumor (570) 457-1625 Raffle Tickets for Cove Haven are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

H appyN ew Year … M aytheN ew Year B ring You G ood H ealth,H appiness,and Peace…

Standing,1st row : Joseph F. Saporito,Jr.,Esqu ire,Carlo J. Saporito,W illiam J. W att,III,Esqu ire, Sam u el A . Falcone,Jr.,Esqu ire;2nd row : Lee A nn Sh ovlin,Patricia Su rvilla,Eileen Casper 3rd row : Tracy Ciarim b oli,N icole Rinaldi

A ttorn eys A t L aw

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PAGE 9

0017

490 N . M ain St.,Su ite 202 P ittston • 654-4643

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

MATTERS OF FAITH

Soup and salad Saturday at Mount Zion The Mount Zion United Methodist Church on Mount Zion Road in Harding will offer an “all you can eat” soup and salad dinner on Saturday, Jan. 7. Dinner will be served from 4:30 until 6:30. An assortment of soups, salads, breads, beverages and desserts will be available. Price for adults is $6.50 and for children $4.50. All are welcome to come for good food and fellowship. PEDIATRIC CLINIC The Care and Concern Pediatric Health Clinic will be open the first and third Thursday of each month. The clinic is located in the former Seton Catholic School Building on William Street, Pittston. Free health care is provided for infants through age 11. Registration is from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Please bring your child’s immunization records with you. Parents or guardians must be present to have their child examined. All services are free and confidential. The clinic is sponsored by the Care and Concern ministries of the Parish Community of St. John the Evangelist, Msgr. John Bendik, Pastor. For more information call 855-6035. REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF WYOMING VALLEY 1700 Wyoming Avenue, FortyFort Pastor Rev. R.F. Dymond Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m. Bible School: 11:45 a.m. Wednesday evening prayer service: 6:30 p.m. every other Wednesday Visitors are welcome. For additional information call 570693-1918

PAGE 10

email items for this page to sd@psdispatch.com; fax to 602-0183

BENNETT PRESBYTERIAN 501 Bennett Street, Luzerne Everyone is welcome. The church is handicap accessible.

Holistic Moms meeting Thursday Jenn from Balance Yoga, will be teaching about Yoga and trying some Yoga positions, so wear comfortable clothes to the meeting of the Holistic Moms Network on Thursday, Jan. 5, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 408 Wyoming Ave, West Pittston. The Holistic Moms Network is a non-profit support and resource network for parents interBETHEL UNITED METHODIST Main St., Avoca 11:15 a.m. Worship BRICK UNITED METHODIST 905 Foote Ave., Duryea Pastor Michael Shambora Service: Sunday 9:45 a.m. CORPUS CHRISTI PARISH 605 Luzerne Ave, West Pittston All children are welcome to join the Youth Choir. Practices are Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. in ICC. Contact Mary Supey at 2372275. Adult choir practices are Saturdays, following the 4 p.m. Mass in ICC. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. James H. Breese, pastor, Water Street, Pittston FIRST CONGREGATIONAL UCC 500 Luzerne Avenue West Pittston Rev. Joan Mitchell, Pastor Sanctuary is handicapped accessible. Sunday,11 a.m. New Year’s Day Worship Service. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 14 Broad Street Pittston Sunday Worship 9:15 a.m. with Rev. William N. Lukesh.

ested in holistic health and green living. Fathers and children are also invited to attend. Everyone is invited to come and see for free. Then if you decide to join, the tax-deductible membership is $45/year. For more information contact Nicole at 570.466.1347 or hmnwyomingvalley@hotmail.com or visit www.wyomingvalleypa.holisticmoms.org.

FIRST UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH West Pittston Jan 1 – 11 a.m. Worship Services are being held at St. Cecilia’s Roman Catholic Church, Wyoming Ave., Exeter, as the church recovers from the flood of September 2011. There is parking on Wyoming Avenue and in the parking lot behind the church. FULL GOSPEL CHAPEL Avoca Weekly church schedule is: Adult Sunday School, 9:30; Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday evening Bible study and prayer service at 7:00. The church also hosts the Rose of Sharon Church with Rev. Vincente Torres on Sunday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. for the Hispanic community. GLENDALE GOSPEL CHURCH 105 Church Drive Glendale/Pittston Township Sunday Service 10:45 a.m. HARDING CHURCH OF CHRIST RR 1 Box 187A, Falls Sunday services: 10:00 a.m. Sunday School and 11:00 a.m. Church Service. Call 388-6534 www.hardingchurchofchrist.org

HOLY MOTHER OF SORROWS PNCC 212 Wyoming Avenue, Dupont Rev. Zbigniew Dawid, Pastor Sunday Mass - New Years Day 10:30 a.m. Traditional High Mass This Sunday there will be only one Mass and there will be no Sunday School. It will resume on Jan. 8, 2012. Daily Mass: 9:00 a.m. Monday through Saturday. ANS Ladies Society will hold their Annual Dinner and Installation Meeting on Jan.8, at noon. It will be held at Agolino’s Restaurant. Call Regina Bahaley if you are going to attend at 4572378. INDEPENDENT BIBLE CHURCH 328 Main Street Duryea, PA 18642 (570) 451-0346 Home/Office JLaCava@TheBibleChurch.org INKERMAN PRESBYTERIAN Main St., Inkerman Services: Sundays, 9 a.m. LANGCLIFFE PRESBYTERIAN 1001 Main St Avoca Sunday worship 11:15 a.m. The Langcliffe Church is handicap accessible. Nursery is provided for children during worship. The Care for Soldiers program continues. To date over 50 care packages have been sent to ser-

vicemen and women overseas. MOOSIC ALLIANCE CHURCH 608 Rocky Glen Road, Moosic Pastor: Doug Jensen 457-6020 maccma2@verizon.net Saturday evening Bible Study at 6:00 p.m. Saturday evening Worship at 7:00 p.m. Sunday morning Sunday School for all ages at 9:30 a.m. Sunday morning Worship at 10:45 a.m. Prayer meeting, Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Celebrate Recovery Ministry, Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH Highway 315, Pittston Masses are held daily in the seminary chapel at 7:00 a.m. (Monday – Friday) and on Saturday mornings at 8:00 a.m. There are no weekend Masses. Confessions are heard daily from 9:00 a.m. – noon and from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. Office hours are Monday – Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., evenings and weekends by appointment. Office phone number is 654-7542. Every Wednesday evening Mass is celebrated at 7:00 p.m. in conjunction with the Novena to St. Joseph & St. Joseph Marello. Novena prayers and the blessing of the first-class relic of St. Joseph Marello, Founder of the Oblates of Saint Joseph Congregation, immediately follow the Mass. All are welcome to participate! Tune into Catholic Radio 750 AM. The radio studio is located in the seminary building and is broadcast daily from dawn to dusk. For more information about this station, contact Ed Niewinski at 287-4670. Check out more information about the seminary and the Oblates of St. Joseph locally and worldwide by turning to their website: www.oblates-stjoseph.com

See FAITH, Page 11

Continued from Page 10

ST. JOSEPH MARELLO PARISH OUR LADY OF MT. CARMEL ST. ROCCO’S Pittston Parish Office will be closed on Monday, Jan. 2 due to the holiday season. Priests are available for any emergencies. The Holy Name Society will meet on Monday, Jan. 9, at 7:00 pm in the Parish Center. New members are welcome. Volunteer Christmas party will be held on Friday, Jan. 13, at 6:30 p.m. in the parish hall for lectors/commentators, choir members, Eucharistic Ministers, ushers, Religious Education teachers/aides, Festivals/Picnic volunteers For reservations please call the rectory 654-6902 before January 9. St. Joseph Marello Parish Raffle is now underway. Buy your tickets now for a chance to win 2012 Chevrolet Cruz or $20,000.00! $20.00 each and only 2,000 tickets to be sold. Seller of the winning ticket receives

$500.00. If you would like to sell a few, just let us know. Call Connie Toole-655-3681, Frank Sciabacucchi 655-6125, Pena Hansen-332-5989, or the rectory office-654-6902. Church envelopes come through the mail every other month. The Diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, June 3. Bishop Joseph Bambera will preside at a 2:30 p.m. Mass in the Cathedral, followed by a reception. Please note the event is designed for 25th and 50th anniversary celebrants, but we can include couples who missed their special year. Cathedral seating will be reserved for the anniversary couples. Call the Rectory at 6546902 to make your reservation. Mt. Carmel Senior Choir will hold rehearsal on Monday from 7-8:30 p.m. St. Rocco Senior Choir will resume weekly rehearsals on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the choir loft of St. Rocco Church. New members are welcome. The Mass Book for 2012 is available. Mass Offerings will be accepted for the months of January and February only. Due to the

large number of families, offerings are accepted on a first come, first serve basis. Come to the

rectory office on William St. Weekday Masses: Monday through Friday at 7:30 & 11:30

a.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel See FAITH, Page 12

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Faith

2012

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SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Faith Continued from Page 11

Church. Every Tuesday after the- 7:30 & 11:30 a.m. Mass, Novena prayers to the Miraculous Medal and Mother Cabrini. Every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. Holy Hour at our Lady of Mr. Carmel Church. Every Wednesday after the 7:30 & 11:30 a.m. Mass, Novena prayers to Saint Joseph and St. Joseph Marello. Weekend Masses: At Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, on Saturday at 4:00 & 7:00 p.m. and on Sunday at 8:00 & 11:00 a.m. At St. Rocco Church, on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. and on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. OUR LADY OF THE EUCHARIST PARISH 535 N Main Street, Pittston Mass Schedule Saturday Vigil: 4:00 p.m. Sunday: 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Daily Mass: 8:00 a.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confessions) Saturday from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. and by appointment Religious Education Classes will be in recess until Sunday, Jan. 8. The Adult Choir is seeking new members. The parish will sponsor a Night at the Races on Saturday, Feb. 11. Audra Casper and Cindy Vough will serve as chairpersons. The gates will open at 5:30 p.m. with post time at 6:30 p.m. Dinner will be served. There will be an organizational meeting for volunteers on Thursday, Jan. 12, at 7:00 p.m. in the parish hall. All

PAGE 12

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parishioners are invited. Letters have been mailed to those who participated in the 22nd Annual Lucky Number Calendar. If you would like to participate, please call the parish office. Calendars make wonderful Christmas presents. The parish is again supporting the Pennsylvanians for Human Life Crisis Pregnancy Center in Wilkes-Barre by participating in the Baby Bottle Project. Parishioners may take a bottle home and fill it with loose change during Advent and return it by Dec. 31. All monies from this project will help to keep the Center open daily to meet the needs of mothers and babies in crisis. His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton and the Office for Parish Life & Evangelization/Family Life wish to invite couples celebrating their 25th or 50th wedding anniversary in 2012 to a diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, June 3. The event includes a 2:30 pm Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral followed by a reception. Requests for an invitation, with a mailing address that will be accurate in March, should be made through your pastor before March 1. The next meeting for all the youth, grades 8 through 12 will be held Sunday, Jan. 22, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. in the Religious Education Center at Our Lady of the Eucharist. The address for the parish webpage is:www.eucharist-pitt-

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ston.org. The Parish is now on Facebook. On the first Friday of each month Communion is brought to those who are unable to participate in Sunday Mass because of age or health. The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is celebrated with anyone seriously ill, anticipating a serious operation, or quite elderly. Please notify the parish office of anyone desiring these Sacraments, as well as anyone in the hospital or a nursing home. PRINCE OF PEACE PARISH Old Forge St. Mary’s Church, Lawrence Street, Saturday Vigil 4 p.m. Sunday, Mass 8 and 10 a.m. St. Lawrence’s Church, Main Street, Saturday Vigil 5:30 p.m. Sunday Mass 11:15 a.m. SACRED HEART OF JESUS Lackawanna Ave., Dupont This week’s Mass schedule is: Monday through Wednesday at 7:00 a.m.; no Mass on Thursday or Friday; Saturday at 4:00 p.m. and Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. The Rectory office will be closed on Monday, Jan. 2. Next weekend, the Christmas decorations will be taken down and put away following the 10:30 a.m. mass. Your help would be appreciated.

The Senior Citizens Outreach Committee will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 6 p.m. in the rectory meeting room. Please note that in case of school closing, the CCD program will also be closed for that night. If there is a delay to the start of school, CCD classes will be held as scheduled. There will be no CCD class on Jan. 2 (Christmas Break). There will be class on Jan. 9; no class on Jan. 16 due to the M.L. King holiday; at the Jan. 23 class report cards will be distributed and the CCD program mass will take place on Jan. 29 at the 8:30 a.m. mass. Grade 6 will be the ministers at the mass. Students are to meet at 8:10AM in the church hall. Senior Citizens’ Outreach Committee continues to reach those senior members of the parish who cannot attend Mass by mailing the church bulletin to them weekly and providing them with a small gift at Christmas and Easter. If you have a family member or know of a parishioner who is homebound or in a nursing home who would like to receive the weekly bulletin, please contact the rectory at 6543713.If you wish to make a donation to offset the cost of their projects, you can either send it to the rectory or drop it into the collection basket. Please label your donation SENIOR CITIZENS’

A new law in Illinois aims to more harshly penalize those who commit financial exploitation against the elderly and the disabled, and deter future crimes, by lowering the dollar threshold required for indictment on Class 1 and Class 2 felony charges. A Class 1 felony will start at $50,000 (previously $100,000) and a Class 2 felony will start between $5,000 and $50,000 (previously $100,000). *** The New Jersey Supreme Court, acknowledging a “troubling lack of reliability in eyewitness idenfitications, “has issued sweeping new rules making it easier for defendants to challenge such evidence in criminal cases. *** A new law allows out-of-state CPAs to practice in New York as long as New York determines that their home state has equivalent licensing requirements and standards and as long as they have a license in good standing from that state. *** Law enforcement agencies in North Carolina have begun to alter the voices on 911 call recordings before releasing them to the public, as allowed under a new law. *** Kansas, Wisconsin, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas enacted or amended voting laws requiring photo ID in 2011, and 34 states in all considered such bills.

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ST. BARBARA PARISH 28 Memorial Avenue, Exeter Office Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Evenings, by appointment. Phone: 654-2103 The envelopes for January and February 2012 have been ordered and you should receive them this month. The children’s envelopes and the 2012 St. Barbara Parish calendars are available in the back of each church. One calendar per family please. The Mass Book for 2012 is available. His Excellency The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton and the Office for Parish Life & Evangelization/Family Life wish to invite couples celebrating their 25th or 50th wedding anniversary in 2012 to a diocesan See FAITH, Page 13

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OUTREACH. Women’s Society will meet on Tues., Jan. 3, 6:30 p.m. in the church hall. New members are always welcome. Holy Name Society will meet on Wed., Jan 4, 7:00 p.m. in the church hall. New members are always welcome. Parish Pastoral Council will meet on Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. in lower level of the rectory.

Make House Calls Dr. Jason Smith of Forty Fort Eye Associates is providing the only house call service for eye care in Northeast PA. Dr. Smith tests for glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration and will check your eyeglass prescription. This service is provided for those who are homebound or in nursing homes. Medicare covers the cost of the examination. For further information, please call:

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Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, June 3. The event includes a 2:30 p.m. Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral followed by a reception. Requests for an invitation, with a mailing address that will be accurate in March, should be made through your pastor before March 1. ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST PARISH COMMUNITY Pittston New Year’s Day – 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. New Years – the office will reopen on Jan. 3. If services of priest are needed call the office and leave a message. The Greater Pittston Food Pantry is accepting donations of gently used adult winter coats, hats, scarves and gloves for the annual winter coat giveaway. Altar and Rosary Society meeting will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 1:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Holy Name and Altar and Rosary Society members breakfast will be held on January 8 following the 10 a.m. Mass. For more information and reservations call Joe Walsh 655-8097. Holy Name Society Meeting will be held January 22 at 11 a.m. at Seton Catholic Auditorium. Holy Name and Altar and Rosary Night at the Races will

be held Feb. 18 at Seton auditorium. Doors open at 6 p.m. Bereavement Support Group will begin meeting on Jan. 24 and will continue Tuesday evenings from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the parish center dining room. The Holy Name Society is holding their annual February 2012 lottery. Tickets are $10 each and available in the parish office Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. also at the front entrance of the church. Ticket returns must by in by January 31. Proceeds benefit Holy Name and parish community projects. A breakfast for the Holy Name and Altar and Rosary Society members and guest will be on Sunday, Jan. 8 following the 10 a.m. Mass. For more information call 654-8097, The Greater Pittston Food Pantry is sponsored by the Care and Concern Committee of St. John the Evangelist Parish. If you are in need of food call 6549923. Distribution of food is by appointment only. The Free Health Clinic is open every Wednesday from 5:30 in the former Seton Catholic High School, and on first come first serve basis. Pediatric Health Clinic is open on the first and third Thursday of the month. Registration is held in the Seton building from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Bring your child’s immunizations records. Greater Pittston Kids Closet is open Wednesday from 9 to 11:30

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ST JOHN’S LUTHERAN 9 Wood St., Pittston Pastor John Castellani Organist Marcia Colleran If you would like to join this Church Family call 655-2505. Envelopes for 2012 are in. If you didn’t get yours...Please see Sharleen Palimia Christmas T-shirts with the name of the Church on the back and font that reads “Jesus, the

Sweetest Thing I Know” are still available for $10. Portals of Prayer are available in the rear of the Church. There is a opening for Votive Candle and Bulletin for January 8. Leave a message for Doris Mersincavage. There will be an increase of 5 dollars for the Votive Candle which now will be $10. ST. JOHN’S P.M. CHURCH 316 Main St., Avoca Sunday Service 10:00 a.m. Tuesday Bible Study 6:007:30 p.m.

ST. MARIA GORETTI Laflin Road, Laflin, PA. 18702 42redwood@comcast.net www.stmariagoretti-laflin.org Confessions are heard at St. Maria Goretti Church every Saturday between the hours of 3:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. or anytime upon an individual’s request. The American Red Cross will hold its annual Blood Drive on Sunday Jan. 22, in the Parish Center from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. There will be no CCD class today Jan. 1. Classes will resume See FAITH, Page 18

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SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Faith

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 14

OUR OPINION

In 2012 we’ll press ahead Congress shall make no law … abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press… Those few words from the first amendment to the constitution may well be the most important in the document. Those words are what distinguishes the United States from much of the rest of the world; from extremes where governments own and run the newspapers and citizens can be arrested for criticizing the government as in North Korea to otherwise free Western countries which have laws against Nazi or KKK-style speech and insulting religions. The founders wrote those words to provide forums for citizens to criticize and keep track of what the government is doing without fear of retribution and they wrote them, as we say today, with zero tolerance. So here because we can’t have laws banning Nazi or KKK-style or other reprehensible speech we are not on a slippery slope to allowing more egregious restrictions. With those words from the constitution in mind and with a New Year upon us we see today as an opportunity to examine what those words mean to us and to you, our readers. For starters in 2012, as has been the policy for several years, we will not run unattributed letters to the editor. Readers might argue that is a blow against free speech and to a degree they may be right. And we might argue, based on some of the unsigned letters we get including one funny one this week about the Wyoming Area school board, the insistence on attribution may make for a less lively paper some weeks. But remember the words say congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of the press. That means we are free to run letters from our readers, or not, as we see fit and no law can change that. So we will continue to insist on attribution. That doesn’t mean those inclined don’t have an outlet for their anonymous hate and criticism. Go stand on a soapbox on a busy corner with a mask on and deliver your message. Here’s something we promise not to do in these pages in 2012: act like we’re smarter than you. That doesn’t mean we won’t have opinions, but we promise not to lecture you on your lifestyles. We may write, say, “don’t drink and drive,” but we won’t write “don’t drink.” Here’s something we hope to do better in 2012: hold local politicians up to a brighter light.

Y O U R S PA C E

Ask Santa to bring me a bone

Tim Dymond sent us this photo of his son Jake sharing a moment on Christmas Eve with Jake’s grandparents’ dog Norm in West Wyoming. Jake is the grandson of Butch and Sue Gilligan and the son of Marissa Gilligan and Tim Dymond.

YOUR OPINION Pierantoni praises GP as he goes to county court For the past 20 years, I have had the honor and privilege to serve Greater Pittston as Magisterial District Judge. I found this position to be most rewarding in many ways. I was truly honored to have the bi-partisan support of the community in four consecutive elections. During my tenure I had the opportunity to serve as President of the Luzerne County Magisterial Judges Association and as statewide president of the Pennsylvania Special Court Judges Association. The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania appointed me Chair of the Minor Court Rules Committee and a member of the Committee on Race and Gender Bias in the Judicial System. I met United States Supreme Court Justices, Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justices, Pennsylvania Governors, legislators, and shared a few moments with a United States President. I was invited to schools and had the opportunity to lecture our youth as to the evils of drug and alcohol abuse, which I witnessed on a daily

basis in our courtroom. I was invited to senior centers and service group meetings where I shared the workings of the magisterial court system and discussed cases in our community. I had the distinction of administering the oath of office to all elected officials for the past two decades. I recognize I would never have had the opportunity to grow professionally and personally by earning these life experiences and cherished moments without the support and encouragement of Greater Pittston. Your confidence in my ability now leads me on a new path, as I will be sworn as a member of the Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas. I am forever indebted to the residents of Greater Pittston and thankful for your friendship. Fred A. Pierantoni III Magisterial District Judge 11-1-04

Question #1 What Pittston Landmark was sent to the junkyard in 1956?

Peeking into the past

1986 – 26 Years Ago Some Wyoming residents New Year’s resolutions: Bob Potenza to join “the family” in New York City in 1986; Rich Belza Jr. to be declared the best chef in the Wyoming Valley; Bob Begliomini, to join the Knights of Columbus; Mayor Al Hizney, to finally open his own school of boxing; Leo Latona, a successful year as new owner of Leo’s Supper Club; Nick Marianacci, a new parking lot in front of his restaurant; and Mrs. and Mrs. Michael Salvo, to keep up their good work of babysitting their grandchildren. Rick Ide became the “TV-kid” as a teen studying television and radio repair. For a time, he worked with his father Don, owner of Action Antenna in Exeter. By 1981, Rick and his wife Sue had opened Ricky’s TV Service on East Sixth Street in Wyoming. Rick mostly worked in the customer’s home, replacing anything from small wires to highvoltage transformers. With the new satellite systems becoming available, Rick installed the black-mesh aluminum dishes weighing 200 pounds and measuring 10 feet in diameter. According to history-of-satelite-tv.net the cost to the everyday consumer was very high. In 1980, a satellite system cost approximately $10,000. By 1985, the prices on the systems dropped to about $3000 each. The programming was free during these years. People made a one-time purchase of a system and received more than 100 channels, including every basic and premium cable service. Members of the Mothers Klub of Humpty Dumpty Kollege, Laura Potor-

ski, Charlene Scarantino, Betty Turco, Donna Padrazas, Debbie Watson, Linda Sperrazza, Frances Carey, Nancy DiMaggio, Terry Ramiza, Ann Marie Denisco, Joyce Ashley, Claudia Blank, Karen Joseph, Mary Clarke, Karen Sobuta, Pat Kulick, Doreen Latona, Helen Gaul, Maria Maida, Janet Stackhouse Columbia Farruggia, Vicki Pepe, JoAnn LoPresto, Monica Orenich and Patty Fasciana gathered to celebrate the holidays. Charlene Evancho owner of the school hosted the party at her home. 1996 – 16 Years Ago Despite a slump in the national trading card business and a number of layoffs, managers of Topps Chewing Gum in Duryea planned to keep their local plant operating. Bargaining agents agreed to a six-month contract putting a stop to the rumor that the company based in Duryea for 30 years would close. Members of Local 229 voted to approve a contract that raised the average hourly wage by 25 cents to $11.75 along with company financed health benefits. Citing the 1994 Baseball strike as a contributing factor in poor sales, company executives hoped they had “hit bottom”. The Topps Company was founded in 1938 and added baseball cards to their gum products in 1951. Answer #1 The Miners Bank Clock that stood at the corner of Main and Broad Streets from 1912 to January of 1956 was dismantled and deposited in the “Al Miller junkyard.” It was replaced with a hanging chime clock. Answer #2 The entire length of the First Presbyterian Church and the Broad Street Methodist Church steeple could not be seen from Water Street until after Pittston city razed the Cash Store Block Building in late December of 1965. The building was built sometime in the early 1900s. Miners Bank purchased the building and cleared the site for a parking area. We spend January 1 walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives... not looking for flaws, but for potential. Ellen Goodman

PAGE 15

1956 – 56 Years Ago With Judy Minsavage James Kehoe Tonrey, grandson of John C. Kehoe Sr., orable character. The Dispatch editorial assumed the managerial post with the went on to list the many anonymous Kehoe Insurance Agency on South Main contributions Kehoe had made to the Street. Tonrey moved to Pittston from community, churches, industries and Harrisburg after completing a training childhood friends. The homestead was course with the Maryland Casualty sold four years after Kehoe’s death to School of Insurance in Baltimore MaryKenneth Marrell and his wife for apland. proximately $300,000 including acreage Mrs. Santo Tabone of Pittston had and servants quarters. The estimated for three years donated something to the cost to build the mansion in 1927 was Lackawanna County Convalescent $500,000. Home, so in 1956 she along with Mrs. Resolutions for the New Year were on Michael Aquilina and Mrs. Sam Licathe minds of Dupont residents. Tommy ta decided to supply cushions to the Sheridan resolved to get his term papatients at the facility. The women went pers done three weeks ahead of time; about collecting funds to purchase the Dorothy Sroka to say ‘You’re wel300 seat cushions. The ladies received a come”; Rita Wozniak and Bernie thank you letter from administrator Draus to make an annual trip to VirginJoseph J. Melvin stating “We kindly ia; and The Fugitives, a prominent local convey to the members and friends at St. band, resolved to have more practice Rocco’s church our sincere thanks for sessions. Band members were Tony the seat covers. We appreciate your Golya, lead guitar; John Gerlak, bass; thoughtfulness during this busy time of Billy Redicka, drums; Gerry Race of year.” Old Forge, rhythm guitar and Roy and Duryean’s New Year resolutions: BeRoger Mattei of Exeter, organ and votty Koes to be more careful of hot dogs cals. at the PTA stand; Dorothy Shimko, to The custom of setting “New Years learn how to ride the boy’s bike she won resolutions” began in Rome at the time at the Lions picnic; Peggy Anderika, of Julius Caesar, and mostly reflected not to bake any more ready-mixed the theme of being good to others. cakes; Stanley “Burke” Berkoski, to Bonnie Salek of Duryea was the first wear his Davey Crockett outfit on Main person in the Greater Pittston Area to be Street some afternoon. selected for the VISTA or Volunteers in The Sunday Dispatch Inquiring PhoService to America Program. She was tographer asked: “What was the farthest scheduled to train for six weeks in Eutrip you ever made from your home?” gene, Oregon, after which she would be Pat Prokop of Wyoming answered, assigned to a territory for a year. Cre“California, I was looking for work ated by Lyndon Johnson’s Economic there for about four months.” Opportunity Act of 1964, VISTA was Ruth Loascher, Pittston said, the domestic version of the Peace Corps “Brooklyn, I’ve been on a lot of short and was brought under the newly cretrips.” ated AmeriCorps program during the David Reese of Pittston stated, “KoClinton Administration. rea, with the Army. That was June of 1954; I was there when they signed the armistice that ended the fighting.” Question #2 What could not be seen from Water Street before January 1966? 1966 – 46 Years Ago An editorial column in the Sunday Dispatch took exception to a story writ1976 – 36 Years Ago ten in the Wilkes-Barre Record regardThe Pittston Area Marine Corps Physing John C. Kehoe Sr. and the sale of ical Fitness Team coached by Jon his Harding mansion. It stated, that reMcHale placed second in a local match porting on the sale was not the problem, and was set to move on to state-wide but the writer calling Kehoe a “whiskey competition. Joe Hensley took first salesman” and referring to his many place in pull-ups and Sam Granteed in friends as “Kehoe cronies” gave the the standing long jump with a 9 ft 2 in impression Kehoe was of less than honleap. Jimmy Graziosi led the Patriots

with 87 sit-ups in two minutes. Sam Granteed, Mike Corcoran and Mark Justick scored perfect 100s in the 300yard run. Major General Walter Churchill’s vision was “to give every child in this country a chance to succeed in life and to live a healthy lifestyle” The United States Marines Youth Foundation was incorporated in 1967 to endow the Youth Physical Fitness Program and others like it. Len Pesotini of Duryea led the nation in pass receptions during the 1975 Indiana University of Pennsylvania football season by catching 74 throws for a total of 1088 yards. He was one of only six receivers in the country to top the 1000yard mark. In a game against Westminster, Pesotini caught 14 passes from All American quarterback Lynn Hieber breaking the game record of 11. Pesotini was inducted into the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Hall of Fame in 2011.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Len Pesotini led nation in receptions in ‘76

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

MARIA REMEMBERS Maria Capolarella Montante

No resolutions for 2012 I have given up making New Year’s Resolutions. Yearly they were made with great resolve and determination to keep them. Maybe a month or two into the New Year they were forgotten or deemed impossible and so away they flew with the wind. Instead, as the New Year of 2012 begins I re-examine the lessons I have learned on my 77-year journey through life and share them with you. Use the Talents that God Gives Not every person is earmarked for fame or fortune. Recognizing the things we do best and use them for our betterment and those around us is a responsibility and offers great joy. The ability to reach out with a smile, touch a hand in time of need, speak words of comfort, praise or counsel are talents God intends us to use. Find Joy in our Surroundings There will be those to scoff at what the eye beholds in our surroundings. The ability to look beyond is rewarding and gives great joy. The color of the sky as night is beginning to fall with shades of blues, pinks, reds, or gold intermingled with clouds, the stance of a tree with a trunk that requires more than two people to embrace, fresh fallen snow that glitters and sparkles, the cherry blossoms in full bloom, the church steeples that reach into the sky reminding us of who we are, and the interaction and

greetings of people we meet in our daily lives. Listen to the Voice Within Many will call it intuition and perhaps it is. I prefer to think of that voice as the Holy Spirit who plants an idea or thought in our minds. It is a thought that does not go away. Maybe it is a call to a relative or friends, a note that must be answered, applying for a job, volunteering, visiting a sick neighbor with a little token in hand. Trying to dismiss the thought with later, tomorrow, or I’ll get to it doesn’t work. If the thought keeps coming back it‘s the Holy Spirit.. When you’re in the River, Swim Papa’s favorite expression. When a problem arises and must be resolved you stay the course. Each step or stroke takes you closer to the opposite side or solution. Keep the Lines of Communication Open Expressing feelings and thoughts were not learned early in life. We were taught that children were seen and not heard. Keeping unexpressed thoughts and anger inside leads to a festering of the heart which is damaging to communicating. Listen to what is being said with an open ear and understanding heart.. Crusaders Stand Alone Climbing on a soapbox to take a stand on an issue that is truly believed in sometimes can be disappointing and

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lonely but worthwhile. Not everyone will believe in you or want to stand with you. The important thing is that you had the courage and conviction to take a stand. Life’s Changing Styles I remember sitting in a fifth grade class and the teacher relating that in our lifetime there would be a material that would not have to ironed, people would go to outer space, and a loaf of bread would cost $3.00. Those are little changes in comparison to I-phones, I-pads, and I-pods. Life was so simple when we turned on the radio and listened to the “Green Hornet” or picked up a phone and heard “number please.” As the numbers in age increase changes in life styles are difficult to understand: Direct Deposit, ATM machines, paying bills on line, shopping on line and Skye. Yikes! A Friend is a Gift You Give Yourself I remember reading those words on a plaque that hung in a dear friend’s home. Friends are people who come into your life and a connection of mutual feelings of understanding, laughter, caring, respect and loyalty are shared. A friend does more than share laughter and good times. They are there in time of need, unhappiness, and difficulty holding your hands or listening with a tissue in hand. Friends are priceless.

See MARIA, Page 17

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Santa and Mrs. Claus visit Falls Senior Center The members and friends of the Falls Senior Center sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging for Luzerne/Wyoming counties recently enjoyed a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. First row, from left, Marita Zim, Don Faux, Norene Faux, Santa,

Mrs.Claus, Art Haefner, Elizabeth Rutkowski. Second row, Eugene Smith, Stanley Hedrick, Dee Hedrick, Florence Keyes, Norma Talbot, Jean Franko, Marie Dowse, Margaret Zalackas, Rosemary Lunny, Eleanor Rezykowski, Jeanette Martin, Herb

Maria Continued from Page 16

Scrabble, and Yatzee. Shuffle Board tournaments between teams are played at the Center each Thursday from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Mini lunch lectures are given several times weekly. Anyone 60+ is welcome to come for a hot

meal at noon for a suggested donation of $2 should RSVP to Twila at 388-2623 by 12:30 p.m. the day before. The Center is open 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Mon- Fri. and located on SR 92.

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PAGE 17

Faith in God gets Stronger with Age It is a grace implanted in our hearts and souls that draw us closer to Him. There is a realization and comfort that we have not come this far in life alone. It is a time of gratitude and thanksgiving for who we are and all that has been given to us. Retirement is the Crowning Glory of Years of Hard Work The reward of freedom from the daily responsibility of earning a living. The luxury of staying in bed on a cold, snowy morning. The realization that you have arrived and that time is not money but LIFE. Survival Every day living offers joys, disappointments and let downs. They are coped with and life goes on. Sometimes we are hit with an event that is painful to the heart and soul and the journey seems insurmountable. One day on that journey comes the realization there is a hidden factor within us that is called “Survival.” The process of “Survival” has no rules or time limits. Living each day one at a time, accepting support from family and friends, keeping busy and above all Trust in God. Trust in God sometimes is the hard part when your mind and heart are crying out “Why Me?” Then the miracle happens when one day you can honestly say, “Why not me?” I am a human being, living in a human body and a society with countless malfunctions. What happens is not God’s fault. LOVE Love every minute of your day. Love those who surround you. Love what you are doing even though it is not your favorite task. Love life, enjoy it and appreciate it.

Watkins. Third row, Ron Jackson, Marilyn Fitzgerald, Elaine Pendleton, Margie O’Fier, Pat Fisher, Pat Smith, Darlene Headley, Warren Keller. The Center offers daily refreshments and the following activities : Wii, Shuffle Board,

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 18

Faith Continued from Page 13

Jan. 8. The next meeting for the Pittston Catholic Youth Group will be held on Sunday, Jan. 22, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the religious Education Center at Our Lady of the Eucharist Parish. ST. MARY’S POLISH NATIONAL CATHOLIC CHURCH 200 Stephenson St. Duryea Rev. Fr. Carmen G. Bolock, Pastor Sun. Dec. 25 – 9 a.m. Mass Benediction Sun. Jan 1 - 9 a.m. Mass Mon. Jan 2 - 8:30 a.m. Mass. SAINT MONICA’S CHURCH 363 West 8th Street, West Wyoming, PA 18644 Office Hours - 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mon. – Fri. Phone: 570-693-1991 Email: olos363@verizon.net website: www.stmonicanepa.com. Father Leo J. McKernan, Pastor. New Years Day: 11:00 a.m. at O.L.O.S. Mass Schedule: Saturday Vigil: 4:00 p.m. OLOS Sunday: 8:30 a.m. STJ; 11:00 a.m. OLOS Daily Mass at OLOS Mon-Tues-Wed -Fri: 7:00 a.m. Thurs: 7:00 p.m. followed with Bible Study & Night Prayer. Bible Study will resume on January 5th. Father Leo McKernan, Pastor and Bill Jenkins, Deacon wish you and your family and friends all the Joy and Peace of the Christmas Season and many Blessings in the New Year 2012. The Parishioners of St. Monica’s Parish extends a warm welcome to join in our Liturgical celebrations, Healing Services and Bible Study during the coming year. R.C.I.A. – The Rite of Christian Initiation (Education) for Adults: Perhaps your New Years Resolution might be to consider learning more about your faith or looking into the R.C.I.A. Program. This program is for anyone interested in learning more about their Catholic Faith as well as anyone interested in preparing

to become a Catholic and receive the Sacraments. Call the Rectory (693-1991) and speak to Father McKernan. These classes are held on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. on the back porch of the Rectory. CCD CLASSES: There will be no CCD classes on Sunday, Jan. 1. Classes will resume on Jan. 8. H.S. Theology Group will meet in the Rectory with Father McKernan at 9:45 a.m. every Sunday (Resuming on January 8.) This new program offers Teens the opportunity to learn more about the Catholic Faith as it relates to important issues of today. The focus is on Jesus and the Scriptures. Registration is on going so if you want to attend, please call Father McKernan at 693-1991. SAINT PETER’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 100 Rock Street, Hughestown Stpeters_elc@yahoo.com 654-1009 Confirmation Class - 9:00 a.m. Sunday School 9:00 a.m. Worship Service 10:00 a.m. Sunday, Jan.1, 10 a.m. Lessons and Carols Service in lieu of the Worship service; everyone is welcome QUEEN OF THE APOSTLES PARISH 715 Hawthorne St. (570) 457-3412 stmarysavoca@verizon.net www.stmaryavoca.4lpi.com Queen of the Apostles Parish will celebrate the feast of the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, today at the 8, 9:30, and 11 a.m. Masses. People of all faith traditions are welcome. Please note this is a holy day of obligation for Catholics. Queen of the Apostles Parish will not have religious education classes January 1 and 2 in observance of the New Year’s Day holiday. The pastoral council will meet Monday, Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary’s Rectory, 715 Hawthorne St. The women’s guild will meet Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary’s Rectory. The worship committee will meet Monday, Jan. 16 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary’s Rectory. The social concerns committee will meet Tuesday, Jan.17 at 7

p.m. in St. Mary’s Rectory. Queen of the Apostles Parish has gone green! Any person who would like to drop off aluminum cans may place them in a container in the empty bayof St. Mary’s Rectory garage which will be open on the weekend during Mass times: Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 8, 10, and 11 a.m. To have your cans picked up, please call Jason at 351-5062. Become a fan today! Queen of the Apostles Parish now has a page on Facebook. *** Anyone who is interested in renting St. Mary’s School for child care, parties, or other use-

ful activities is invited to call the rectory at 457-3412 to learn more about this opportunity. Daily Masses: 8 a.m. (Wednesday at 7 p.m.) Eucharistic Adoration: Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Miraculous Medal Novena: Wednesday following the 7 p.m. Mass Weekends Masses: Saturday at 4 p.m.; Sunday at 8, 9:30, 11 a.m. Confession: Saturdays 3-3:45 p.m.; anytime upon request by calling 457-3412. Prayer Chain: 457-5867

SECOND PRESBYTERIAN 143 Parsonage St., Pittston Sunday, Jan. 1 – 11 a.m. Worship Tuesday, Jan 3 – 7 p.m. AA meeting Wednesday, Jan 4 – 6:30 p.m. choir rehearsal TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH Spring Street and Montgomery Avenue, West Pittston Youth Program: 10:45 a.m. every Sunday. See FAITH, Page 19

Continued from Page 18

Faith Forum for Adults: Enrichment for adults seeking spiritual renewal and opportunities for ministry and volunteerism. Parish Life Events Team: Bimonthly first Sundays. Parish Council: Every second Sunday. Women of Trinity: Every third Sunday. WOT Ministry Invitation. The Women of Trinity have undertaken a ministry to help support Good Shepherd Episcopal Church of Scranton in their outreach to the homeless of the region. Each month after enjoying a home cooked meal at Good Shepherd all who have needs may “shop” for necessities like clothing, shoes, toiletries in a store-like setting in the church’s refurbished basement of donated items. Donations of trial size and sample size toiletries are welcome. Music Together Classes: Fun and music for infants and children through age five accompanied by a parent or caregiver.

Visitwww.musictogether.com for details or call 654-3261. UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Corner of Broad & Church Sts. Rev. Dr. Michael Turner Sunday Worship Service 9:30 a.m. Children’s Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Holy Communion: 1st Sunday each month Choir Rehearsal: Thursday’s at 7 p.m. unless told otherwise Websitewww.umcpittston.org Phone 655-4340 United Methodist Women: 2nd Monday unless told otherwise Hoagie Sale on Tuesday, January 10. Choices are - ham, salami and cheese or turkey and cheese with or without onion. Price of the hoagie is $4. Orders must be received by Sunday, January 8. To place and order call 6543936 or 693-1572. Wednesday, Jan. 18 - Ad. Council meeting at 7 p.m.

CHURCH NOTES

Service of Lessons and Carols today at St. Peter’s in Hughestown Note: The Dispatch had an early news deadline last week due to the New Year’s Day holiday. The following items for Matters of Faith arrived late and are note included in the listing which begins on page 10. The Worship and Music Committee of Saint Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Rock and Center Streets in Hughestown, will present a Service of Lessons and Carols today at 10:00 a.m. This service will be an opportunity to come and celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ through prayer, scripture, song, and music. The format of the service will be the same as it has been in years past, including the reading of brief scripture lessons highlighting events surrounding the Birth of Christ, congregational singing of Christmas carols, and other music.

Members of Saint Peter’s will serve as lectors and prayer leaders. Michael Sowa will serve as organist, and members of the church choir will lead the congregation in song. All are invited to this special service on the first day of the New Year. ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN

7 Wood Street Pittston PA 18640 Serving in the House of the Lord Pastor John Castellani Organist - Marcia Colleran Lay Reader - Doris Mersincavage Acolyte - Brooke Cherney Ushers - Alan Drummond & Bob Shumaker Please keep in your prayer list our military personnel and their families, all the unemployed, everyone who had recent flood damage in and around the

Wyoming Valley, Dan Peck, Emalee Kachurka, Donna Miscavage, Bobby Drummond, Leonard Peterson, Gene Rooney, Charles Barone, Joe Dennis, Mike & Jody Farrell and Barb Mizenko and Renee Weislogel, also shut-ins Mary Agnes Mangle, Ted Burkel, Donna Capobianco, Elaine Proietto ,Charlotte Kerns, Donna Bobbouine and Gladys Bowman Envelopes for 2012 are in. If you didn’t get yours see Sharleen Palimia. Portals of Prayer are available in the rear of the Church. There is an increase of 5 dollars for the Votive Candle which is now $10 while the bulletin $ 5, effective today. If you would like to join our Church Family have any questions or comments please call us at 655-2505. Please leave your

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Faith

See CHURCH NOTES, Page 21

PAGE 19

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

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Continued from Page 19

OBLATES OF SAINT JOSEPH SEMINARY

Route 315 – Pittston Masses are held daily in the seminary chapel at 7:00 a.m. (Monday – Friday) and on Saturday mornings at 8:00 a.m. There are no weekend Masses. Confessions are heard daily from 9:00 a.m. – noon and from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. Office hours are Monday – Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., evenings and weekends by appointment. Office phone number is 654-7542. Every Wednesday evening Mass is celebrated at 7:00 p.m. in conjunction with the Novena to St. Joseph & St. Joseph Marello. Novena prayers and the blessing of the first-class relic of St. Joseph Marello, Founder of the Oblates of Saint Joseph Congregation, immediately follow the Mass. All are welcome to participate! Tune into Catholic Radio 750 AM. The radio studio is located in the seminary building and is broadcast daily from dawn to dusk. For more information about this station, contact Ed Niewinski at 287-4670. Happy, Healthy & Holy New Year to all our friends and benefactors! The Oblate Fathers express their deepest gratitude to every-

one who sent cards, gifts and goodies to the seminary over the holiday season. May 2012 bring all of you much peace, joy and success! The Josephite-Marellian Laity Association will hold their monthly meeting this coming Wednesday, Jan. 4, following the 7:00 p.m. Mass/Novena to St. Joseph & St. Joseph Marello. Plans will be made for the upcoming Feast of the Holy Spouses, which is planned for Sunday, Jan. 22, at noon in the seminary chapel. New members are always welcome, especially at the start of this new year. Monthly Vocation Holy Hour will be held this Thursday, Jan. 5, at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel. The Holy Hour includes exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, silent adoration, recitation of the Rosary with vocation-theme mysteries, Scriptural reading, sermon, intercessions and benediction. All are welcome to participate in this monthly devotion as we pray for an increase of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, especially in the Congregation of the Oblates of St. Joseph. Blue Army First Friday Prayer Vigil, Jan. 6, beginning with confessions at 8:00 p.m., followed by Mass at 9:00 p.m. to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Devotions also include exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and devotions to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. All are welcome to attend. Check out more information about the seminary and the Oblates of St. Joseph locally and worldwide by turning to the website:www.oblates-stjoseph.com

We are certiﬁed in Mold Remediation, Testing & Inspection

Continued from Page 7

and Presidential Appointee, he twice served as the Executive Director for the President’s Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board in the White House. Gerard Musto, 77, of Pittston Township, was with the Pittston Area district since its formation in 1966. He served as District Psychologist, Director of Curriculum, District Principal and Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction and Superintendent. Thomas Durkin, Mayor of the Borough of Avoca. Leonard A. Charney, 90, of West Pittston. Originally from West Wyoming he was a well-

known and very talented accordion player. He spent his last 20 years entertaining at local senior citizen centers, the VA Hospital, nursing facilities, as well as performing at numerous Christmas and special occasion parties. Curtis Everitt Hannon Sr., of Harding, President of The West Pittston Little League and owner of The Wing Zone restaurant in Pittston. Frank J. Avvisato, 66, former police chief of the borough of Old Forge, he was instrumental in creating the Lower Lackawanna/Luzerne County Drug Task Force.

SABATELLE’S 114-116 S. MAIN ST., PITTSTON • 654-4616 - 654-4617 An Authentic Italian MEAT MARKET & FINE FOOD STORE

We Deliver – WE ACCEPT FOOD STAMPS — HOME OF BELLA BASKETS

“The Best All Year” HOT FOODS TO GO SYMPATHY PLATTERS • CATERING

CUT FRESH • GROUND FRESH • HOMEMADE DELI ONLY THE BEST FOR YOU! WHERE ALL THE GOOD STUFF IS! HAPPY NEW YEAR - GOD BLESS ONE & ALL FOR 2012!

GROUND 10 LB. $ BAG SIRLOIN BONELESS SIRLOIN $ STEAK NEW YORK STRIP $ STEAK “ANGUS” DELMONICO $ STEAK TOP ROUND $ LONDON BROIL TENDER CUT $ BEEF ROAST RUMP ROAST OR $ BONELESS CHUCK ROAST LESSER $ EYE ROUND ROAST WHOLE $2.99LB. LEAN BEEF $ STEW MEAT VEAL CUTLETS $ TOP ROUND

BREAST $ 1.29 LB. 2.29 LB. CHICKEN WHOLE OR SPLIT SKINLESS $ 4.99LB. BONELESS 1.79 LB. CHICKEN BREAST BONELESS SKINLESS $ 8.99LB. CHICKEN 1.99 LB. TENDERS LARGE ROASTER OR $ 8.99LB. SOUP CHICKEN 1.29 LB. CHICKETTA $ 3.99LB. ROAST 3.69 LB. PORK BUTT 3.99LB. PORKETTA ROAST $2.99 LB. CENTER CUT $ 2.69 LB. 3.69LB. PORK CHOPS PORK $ 3.69LB. BONELESS 3.49 LB. CHOPS OR ROAST ITALIAN $ 3.49LB. SAUSAGE 3.39 LB. LAMB CHOPS OR $ 12.99 LB. LOIN 12.99 LB. VEAL T-BONE STEAK THE ORIGINAL SINCE 1978

HOT SWEET GARLIC

Hot Foods To Go BREADED CHICKEN TENDERS $8.99 LB. $7.99 LB. BREADED EGGPLANT $14.99 EA. LARGE STROMBOLI $5.99 CUT EGGPLANT LASAGNA $5.99 EA. MEATBALL HOAGIE STEAK & CHEESE HOAGIE $6.99 EA.

We have a large variety of Italian Goods, Pasta Bowls to Expresso Pots, etc. The best variety of Italian Specialty Food in the Northeast: Panatone, Torrone Pizzeles, Homemade Cookies, Prosciutto, Sopresatta, Homemade Lonza Dried Sausage, Salami, Super Chubs. We have Fresh Baked Bread and Rolls, Italian Cheese, Imported Pasta, Homemade Ravioli, Gnocchi and Pasta, Farm Fresh Produce, Fresh Made Salads Daily!

Structure Drying & General Construction 729785

Accepting Mastercard...Visa...Discover...American Express

HOURS: Mon. thru Fri. 8-6 • Sat. 8-5 • Fax Us Your Order 654-0901 PRICES EFFECTIVE 1/2/12 – 1/7/12 • NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS

ary 3. The library is forming a LEGO club and is currently seeking donations of LEGOS and LEGO accessories to build a supply. Any donation will be greatly appreciated. Look for future announcements about the club, open to children age 6-12beginning in 2012. Toddler and Preschool story time will begin the week of Jan. 9 and will run for 6 weeks. There are three sessions. Please call the library to register your child. The library will be closed January 2

Don’t just watch a movie, experience it! All Stadium Seating and Dolby Surround Sound ALL FEATURES NOW PRESENTED IN DIGITAL FORMAT

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EXPERIENCE D/BOX MOTION ENHANCED SEATING ON SELECT FEATURES

***The Darkest Hour - PG13- 100 min. (1:30), (3:40), 7:45, 10:00 War Horse - PG13 - 155 min. (12:50), (3:55), 7:10, 10:15 We Bought a Zoo - PG - 135 min (12:50), (3:40), 7:10, 9:55 ***The Adventures of Tintin in 3-D - PG115 min. (1:10), (3:30), 7:20, 9:45 **The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo - R 170 min. (1:00), (3:40), (4:20), 7:00, 8:00, 10:20 Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol PG13 - 130 min (12:40), (1:20), (3:40), (4:15), 7:00, 7:30, 10:00, 10:30 Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked - G - 95 min (12:30), (1:00), (2:40), (3:10), (4:50), (5:20), 7:15, 9:20 Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows - PG13 - 140 min (12:40), (1:00), (3:30), (3:50), 7:00, 7:20, 9:50, 10:10 Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows in D-Box - PG13 - 140 min (1:00), (3:50), 7:20, 10:10 Young Adult - R - 105 min (1:15), (3:30), 7:10, 9:30 New Year’s Eve - PG13 - 130 min. (12:30), (3:10), 7:15, 9:55, The Sitter - R - 130 min. 7:40, 9:45 **Arthur Christmas - PG - 110 min. (12:30) All Showtimes Include Pre-Feature Content

(Parenthesis Denotes Bargain Matinees)

Avoid the lines: Advance tickets available from Fandango.com Rating Policy Parents and/or Guardians (Age 21 and older) must accompany all children under 17 to an R Rated feature *No passes accepted to these features. **No restricted discount tickets or passes accepted to these features. ***3D features are the regular admission price plus a surcharge of $2.50 D-Box Motion Seats are the admission price plus an $8.00 surcharge First Matinee $5.25 for all features (plus surcharge for 3D features).

825.4444 • rctheatres.com

• 3 Hrs. Free Parking At Participating Park & Locks with Theatre Validation •Free Parking at Midtown Lot Leaving After 8pm and All Day Saturday & Sunday.

PAGE 21

Ph. 570-347-7580 • PA019285 www.moldspecialist.net

Deaths

Homemade Deli $7.99 LB. ROASTED PORKETTA $7.99 LB. CHICKETTA ROAST $7.99 LB. ROAST BEEF $3.99 LB. AMERICAN CHEESE $3.99 LB. COOKED HAM $4.99 LB. SWISS CHEESE

Has your home been flooded? Call us, we can help.

Thursdays at 6 p.m. New members always welcome Crochet will resume on Janu-

726457

name phone number with your message and someone will be in contact with you as soon as possible. Our e-mail address isstjohnspittston@verizon.com

The Pittston Memorial Library crochet club will meet on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and on

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Crochet resumes Tuesday at library

Church notes

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

OPEN 1pm till Midnight

1/2 LB. LOBSTER TAIL $

19.99

Served with French Fries & Cole Slaw. SCRANTON 701 N. WASHINGTON AVE. 346-6883

SUNDAY DISPATCH

WATERFRONT PITTSTON 304 KENNEDY BLVD 654-6883 Since 1964

MONEY SAVING SPECIALS 7 DAYS A WEEK! www.savospizza.com

655-0001

OPEN WEEKDAYS 11 TO 9; FRI. & SAT. 11 TO 10; in the Pittston Commons, Pittston By-Pass, Pittston SUN. 12-8

& Family Restaurant

Same Great Taste, New Cozy Environment

2011 OPEN TODAY (SATURDAY) 2012 NEW YEARS EVE 11:00 TILL 8:00 - FULL MENU seating till 7:00

OPEN NEW YEARS DAY 12:00 TILL 8:00 seating till 7:00

Open Tuesday-Saturday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

Wishing All of our Loyal Customers and Friends a Happy New Year ~ Sam Marranca, Family and Friends

1723 River Road • Jenkins Township

570-299-7724

LIMITED MENU - Pizza • Chicken Wings • Buffalo Bites Giant Hot Dogs & Cold Hoagies ONLY

NEW YEAR’S EVE & BUY 18 CUTS of Unbaked BUY 24 CUTS of Unbaked NEW YEAR’S DAY Pizza & GET 6 CUTS FREE Pizza & GET 12 CUTS FREE SPECIALS NO COUPONS NEEDED • Sorry We Don’t Deliver These Specials

DELIVERY, PICK-UP OR EAT IN COUPONS

24 Cuts Pizza Only

19.99

Price does not include sales tax, cannot be combined with other specials. Good for our red pizza only. Expires 1/31/12

30 Piece Order Of Wings Only

Only

13.55

Includes 1 Side Of Bleu Cheese & Celery

Get 12 Cuts of Pizza For

4.99

Price does not include sales tax, cannot be combined with other specials. Good for our red pizza only. Expires 1/31/12

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

BIG AND BLUE Wednesdays 5 to 10 pm

AY Y 23 OZ LABBATT BLUE $3.00 ALL DAY

Any Burger off the menu only $6.95

S ALL OF OUR AWESOME SALADS ARE $2.00 OFF 0 ‘Tipsy 5-0‘ MARGARITAS $9.00 (Market St. Only)

e Catering Packages Available

PAGE 22

Murder Mystery January 8th

29 Market Street Jenkins Twp. 655-8091

SUNDAY BRUNCH

$10.95 over 24 Homemade Items

When You Buy 12 Cuts at the Regular Price

Price does not include sales tax, cannot be combined with other specials. Expires 1/31/12

Stop by our other location: 245 Owen Street, Swoyersville 287-6074 2 Large Family Dining Rooms

www.omarscastleinn.net • 675-0804

Audience Participation

VOTED #1 SHOW IN LUZERNE COUNTY

Enjoy a cozy dinner in front of our 2 fireplaces

OPEN New Year’s Eve 5PM

1022 Main St. • Avoca, PA 18641 • 570-457-1600

Monday & Wednesday Eat in only 40¢ Wings (Sold in Quantities of 10)

Tuesday - 40¢ Rhode Island Clams Eat in only (Sold in Quantities of 10)

LUNCH SPECIALS from 11AM-2PM

Monday - 8 Inch Italian Hoagie/Chips $5.00 Tuesday - Chili Dog/Chips/Soda $5.00 Wednesday - Porketta Sandwich/Chips $5.00 Thursday - 8 Inch Chicken Parm Hoagie/Chips $5.50 Friday - 8 Inch Tuna Hoagie/Chips/Soda $5.00

WE HAVE THE NFL AND BIG TEN PACKAGES

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

SUNDAY DISPATCH

SUN., MON., TUES. 7 A.M.-3 P.M. WED., THUR., FRI., SAT. 7 A.M.-8 P.M.

“The Best Breakfast Around”

• Overstuffed Omelets • Huge Frittatas • Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes • Hand Dipped FrenchToast

Happy New Year! We will be closed New Year’s Day, re-opening on Monday

Serving Affordable Home-Cooked Meals • Eat-In or Take-Out Call For Our Daily Specials, 654-2536 Voted “Best Value”...”Most Affordable”... and Favorite Restaurant” by our loyal customers

509 Exeter Ave., West Pittston

Happy New Year! From the Pittston Dispatch TABLE TALK

Happy 2012 Wishing All Our Friends A Healthy, Happy & Prosperous Biagio A. Dente, CEC,AAC, HOF Blaise Alan Dente, CCC

DENTE’S

Catering & Tent Rental C

New Year!

655-0801

www.dentescatering.com

To Advertise In The

COME DINE WITH US DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON!

PAGE 23

Steve Morris 970-7290 Karen Fiscus 970-7291

marvelousmuggs.com

720324

Please Contact

Montage Mountain Road

YO U R S PAC E

Mary R. Ehret, MS, RD, LDN Penn State Cooperative Extension

Beware of fad diets If feeling healthy and being ten pounds lighter is on your list of New Year Resolutions, then the National Institute of Health and the Weight Control Information Network at http://win.niddk.nih.gov/index.htm has a long list of myths for you! Beware, the media and advertisers will soon be highlighting all the fad diets and newest diet aids. Be ready, read these myths and ask questions of the sellers! First, what is a fad diet? A fad diet is any diet that you feel you cannot stay on longer than 3-4 months It also usually is not balanced in that it restricts certain types of foods. Some fad diets restrict carbohydrates yet allow all the protein and fat that a person wishes to eat. Here are the myths that can be found on the NIH web site. Click on the link to see more. Myth: Fad diets work for permanent weight loss. Fact: Fad diets are not the best way to lose weight and keep it off. Fad diets often promise quick weight loss or tell you to cut certain foods out of your diet. You may lose weight at first on one of these diets. But diets that strictly limit calories or food choices are hard to follow. Most people quickly get tired of them and regain any lost weight. Fad diets may be unhealthy because they may not provide all of the nutrients your body needs. Also, losing weight at a very rapid rate (more than 3 pounds a week after the first couple weeks) may increase your risk for developing gallstones (clusters of solid material in the gallbladder that can be painful). Diets that provide less than 800 calories per day also could result in heart rhythm abnormalities, which can be fatal. Tip: Research suggests that losing ½ to 2 pounds a week by making healthy food choices, eating moderate portions, and building physical activity into your daily life is the best way to lose weight and keep it off. By adopting healthy eating and physical activity habits, you may also lower your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Myth: High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are a healthy way to lose weight. Fact: The long-term health effects of a high-protein/low-carbohydrate diet are unknown. But getting most of your daily calories from high-protein foods like meat, eggs, and cheese is not a balanced eating plan. You may be eating too much fat and cholesterol, which may raise heart disease risk. You may be eating too few fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which may lead to constipation due to lack of dietary fiber. Following a high-protein/low-carbohydrate diet may also make you feel nauseous, tired, and weak. Eating fewer than 130 grams of carbohydrate a day can lead to the buildup of ketones (partially broken-down fats) in your blood. A buildup of ketones in your blood (called ketosis) can cause your body to produce high levels of uric acid, which is a risk factor for gout (a painful swelling of the joints) and kidney stones. Ketosis may be especially risky for pregnant women and people with diabetes or kidney disease. Tip: High-protein/low-carbohydrate diets are often low in calories because food choices are strictly limited, so they may cause shortterm weight loss. But a reduced-calorie eating plan that includes recommended amounts of carbohydrate, protein, and fat will also allow you to lose weight. By following a balanced eating plan, you will not

PAGE 24

See NUTRITION, Page 27

Mary R. Ehret, M.S., R.D., L.D.N., is with Penn State Cooperative Extension, Luzerne County, 16 Luzerne Ave., West Pittston, Pa., 18643. (570) 825-1701/602-0600. Fax (570) 825-1709. mre2@psu.edu.

Urologist urges men to continue PSA testing for prostate cancer Almost a quarter of a million men in this country will be diagnosed this year with prostate cancer. In the United States, a man will die of prostate cancer every 36 minutes. My patients are totally confused by the recent newspaper column regarding the United States preventative services task force that healthy men should not receive PSA “Prostate Specific Antigen” Blood Tests to screen for cancer. This recommendation is counter-intuitive and ignores many years of sound scientific research. The chairman of the panel was a pediatrician (children do not get prostate cancer) and incredibly not a urologist or oncologist was included on the committee! I am currently Chief of Urology at Wyoming Valley Health Care and I have been practicing

Urology in Northeast Pennsylvania for 31 years. During my residency at the Hospital of The University of Pennsylvania in the 1970s, almost half of the men diagnosed with prostate cancer had metastatic disease. Presently, this number is less than 10%. Since large scale screening with PSAs, the death rate from prostate cancer has decreased dramatically, and has been an even greater diminution in diagnosing advanced prostate cancer. The Goteburd randomized population based prostate cancer screening trial “Lancet Oncology July 2010” found that with screening, deaths from prostate cancer dropped 44% over a 14 year period. This study begs the question: Why would the panel ignore the dramatic decline in prostate cancer mortality over the past two decades in which PSA treating

has become the norm? I can only assume that the task force recommendation is routed in the desire to cut health care costs for the government and private insurers. This will put all men at risk, but especially jeopardize those most at risk, men with a family history, African Americans, and the under-insured. The PSA is a diagnostic tool and should be used accordingly, and weighed intelligently with other risk factors. In my opinion PSAs if used appropriately are one of the best tumor markers available and can aid a patient and physician in determining diagnostic and therapeutic options. I will continue to have my blood drawn yearly for a PSA and I will continue to recommend it for my patients. Ira C. Grossman, M.D. Urology Associates of Kingston

Finds Dispatch office manager worthy of rhyme A News Lady One day I stopped by, To her office on the fly She always has a smile on to greet you, A wonderful trait to have as it arrives on cue. There are more I’m sure, Her character is demure It all comes from within Passed on from parents to kin. Another year has passed As I look at the calendar, I’m aghast A new year is approaching us Before Christmas, it’s a lot of fuss. Three hundred sixty-five days have gone by Too quick as we wonder why

Guess its part of the norm As I hope outside temps will start to warm In the meantime this lady always has a greeting To everyone who stops in for a meeting Happy New Year Judy

Minsavage I wish to mention You are a credit to the “Dispatch” It deserves everyone’s attention. Ronald Voveris Yatesville

The Local Guys With The National Buys

TV & APPLIANCES

Kingston • 287-9631

Exeter • 655-8801

191699

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

NUTRITION CORNER

Pre-school children gather to welcome Santa as he enters the Greater Pittston YMCA last Friday morning.

PHOTOS BY BILL TARUTIS

Some of the pre-school children who visited with Santa at the Greater Pittston YMCA on Dec. 23 pose for a group picture.

PAGE 25

Four-year-old Hunter Puhalla poses for a photo with Santa at the Pittston YMCA.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Santa visits children at Greater Pittston YMCA

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

More photos of Santa’s visit with children at the YMCA

Tina Fisher of the Greater Pittston YMCA assists Santa as he passes out Hershey bars and talks with the children at a party on Dec. 23. BILL TARUTIS

2012

Happy New Year

2012

from DILEO’S SERVICE CENTER DOMESTIC - FOREIGN AUTO SPECIALIST 2012 MAJOR - MINOR REPAIRS A.S.E. CERTIFIED MASTER MECHANIC EMISSIONS - STATE INSPECTION AIR CONDITIONING & RADIATOR SERVICE 100% TRANSMISSION FLUID FLUSH Call for Full Service Oil Change and Inspections Specials.

JOSEPH DILEO, Proprietor

2012

Eighteen-month-old Nicholas Hower looks over a big Hershey bar given to him by Santa at the Pittston YMCA.

728162

PAGE 26

440 Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, PA, 693-0467

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Knights of Columbus, Pittston, assist Salvation Army As a part of their ongoing service to community, Knights of Columbus Assembly 948 members rang bells at Quinn’s Market, Pittston, on behalf of the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign.

Left, five-year-old Dominick Ferentino gives a helping hand as Knights Martin Simko, Pittston, left, and Al Palladino look on. Dominick is the son of Jarrett and Nicole Ferentino.

Right, Herbie Lewis, Pittston, makes a contribution to the Salvation Army. PHOTOS BY TONY CALLAIO

Nutrition

PAGE 27

have to stop eating whole classes of foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables—and miss the key nutrients they contain. You may also find it easier to stick with a diet or eating plan that includes a greater variety of foods. Myth: Certain foods, like grapefruit, celery, or cabbage soup, can burn fat and make you lose weight. Fact: No foods can burn fat. Some foods with caffeine may speed up your metabolism (the way your body uses energy, or calories) for a short time, but they do not cause weight loss. Tip: The best way to lose weight is to cut back on the number of calories you eat and be more physically active. Myth: Natural or herbal weight-loss products are safe and effective. Fact: A weight-loss product that claims to be "natural" or "herbal" is not necessarily safe. These products are not usually scientifically tested to prove that they are safe or that they work. For example, herbal products containing ephedra (now banned by the U.S. Government) have caused serious health problems and even death. Newer products that claim to be ephedra-free are not necessarily dangerfree, because they may contain ingredients similar to ephedra. Tip: Talk with your health care provider before using any weightloss product. Some natural or herbal weight-loss products can be harmful. Currently Penn State Extension is offering the DASH, Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension booklets for a small fee. The DASH diet is researched based and meets the recommended dietary recommendations. Call 825-1701 to see how you can receive your own copy.

720924

Continued from Page 24

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 28

2011: $100,000 donation helps restore Wyoming Monument Continued from Page 6

Joshua Miller was released by Oasis Records. All profits from sales go to the Joshua Miller Memorial Fund. Miller was killed in the line of duty in 2009. On open house was held June 21 for Interstate Distribution Center, a manufacturing and distribution company, at the former Techneglas plant in Jenkins Twp. The plant, which closed in 2004, once employed 2500. Wilkes-Barre Publishing Company, the parent company of the Sunday Dispatch, announced a new name – Impressions Media – designed to better reflect the company’s position as “the pioneers in Northeastern Pennsylvania’s multimedia world.” The sixth annual tour of historic Greater Pittston churches took place on June 19 with founder Atty. Jan Lokuta hosting a tour of churches in Exeter Borough: St. Cecilia’s, St. John the Baptist, Slocum Chapel and St. Anthony of Padua. Bill Goldsworthy stepped down as mayor of West Pittston to accept a position as deputy director of Gov. Tom Corbett’s Northeast Regional Office. As his last act as mayor, Goldsworthy, 57, suggested council appoint Tony Denisco as mayor, which it did. A star erected on Stauffer Heights in the 1950s and was lighted every night up until about 20 years ago, found a new life at Pittston Area High School thanks to the National Honor Society. Jim Zarra urged the students to take on the project and Pat Hadley of Hadley Construction donated workers to assist. Shawn Klush was again a headliner as the Northeast Fair took place in late June. Pittston native John P. Cosgrove, 93, who lived and worked in the media in Washington, D.C. for the last 70 years, donated two paintings to the Irish Embassy. One, commissioned by Cosgrove, depicts Charles Thomson notifying George Washington that he had been elected president. The other shows Washington surrounded by 13 senior officers of the revolution, all of Irish descent. Several locals were on hand in Washington for the presentation to Irish Ambassador Michael Collins.

Kevin McGroarty, an artist, musician and entrepreneur, was the subject of the Sunday Sitdown by Jack Smiles. July

Relatives of Spc. Dale Kridlo, cousins Raphael Kon, left, Michael Mondlak, Dominic Kon, and Jacob Fenske, cheer on runners in the Tomato Festival 5K run which was dedicated to the memory of Kridlo, who was killed in action in Afghanistan on Nov. 7, 2010. FILE PHOTO BY BILL TARUTIS

The popular Tomato Fights were not only a hit at the 2011 Pittston Tomato Festival but also were mentioned in the national publication Parade Magazine. FILE PHOTO BY TONY CALLAIO

The first week of July Retired United States Army Captain Thomas Jerome “TJ” Hromisin agreed to his first wide-ranging interview four years after he was critically wounded by a sniper bullet during Operation Iraqi Freedom while leading a combat patrol. A third of his skull and part of his brain were destroyed and he was blinded. Sitting at the kitchen table at his parents’ home in Pittston he – along with his father Jerry and his mother Mary Ellen – talked about his recovery. In the immediate aftermath of his injury doctors held out little hope that TJ would ever be able to do the things he talked about in the interview. “I’m able to move around freely without help,” he said. “I think clearer. I put dates and times in their proper situations.” Among his recovery goals were: “I’d like to get a job I want to do instead of settling for a job. I want a chance at normalcy.” July saw the first stage of the demolition of the old Eighth Street Bridge when the two trusses and piers on the Jenkins Twp side were brought down by dynamite. Dr. Joseph and his wife Rose Mattioli were honored guests when the Wyoming Monument was rededicated on July 4. The Mattiolis, who own Pocono Raceway, donated $100,000 to the Monument’s restoration fund after it was extensively damaged by lightning on August 3, 2008. The Pittston Farmer’s Market opened on July 12 at a new location, the former St. John the Baptist School parking lot. The market had to move from the Tomato Festival lot because of sewer construction work. Dr. William V. Lewis, Jr, Jenkins Township was appointed by Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett to serve as a Commissioner of Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, the official history agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. See 2011, Page 29

Continued from Page 28

Several hundred people, mostly from Greater Pittston, attended the funeral service Friday for Captain Fred R. Demech Jr., U.S. Navy (Retired) at Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, D.C. Avoca native Fred Gedrich, a resident of Washington, said Capt. Demech’s burial service took place several feet away from where Dale Kridlo, who was killed in Afghanistan in November, is buried. Progress on the revitalization of downtown Pittston in July included flowers growing up and a building going down. Volunteer Jim Norris planted flowers in tree beds along Main Street and the old Wayne’s World building was demolished. When Yankee third baseman Derek Jeter got his 3,000th hit –

a home run – on July 7, 37 locals were there on a bus trip from Our Lady of Eucharist Church. Father Tom Maloney randomly picked that date for the trip in the spring. In July, Pittston City Council passed an ordinance to place a home rule study question on the November ballot. The new two-story, 3,200square-foot, $600,000 Chief Edward Brennan Public Safety Annex was dedicated in Wyoming Borough during the annual joint memorial service for Wyoming Police Chief Edward Brennan and West Wyoming Police Chief Ralph Daley who were both shot and killed in 1918. August

A fire at 252 Parsonage Street destroyed the home of Sam and

Mary Danaher and their four kids and virtually everything they had, including a Monte Carlo stock car Sam had worked on for two years. He was only halfway through his first race season with the car. An already scheduled fund raiser at Diane’s Deli on Main Street was supposed be for the race car, but wound up as a fund raiser for fire victims. Pittston received notice from Gov. Tom Corbett’s budget office that the city’s Main Street redevelopment project was approved for $3 million in state money from the state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. Also in August the city got another $2.45 million in grant money to jumpstart the $9.4 million riverfront condo project. Despite the construction going

on downtown for the sewer project and Streetscape, the Tomato Festival Committee reported another successful festival. They estimated 50,000 visitors. Rachel Leandri was crowned queen. The Little Mr. and Miss were Benecio Carpentier and Ava Flanagan. Junior’s Pasta House won the Sauce Wars. Dr. Joseph Lombardo was the parade grand marshal. Nationwide Tire completed the job of shredding some 600,000 used tires at the old Hawk Recycling Center in Duryea. Emmy award winning actress Kimberly McCullough hosted a dinner and a screening of her short film “Nice Guys Finish Last” at Palazzo 53. The bell was removed from the tower of the closed St. Mary’s

Assumption Church in August. The 111-year-old bell was forged of bronze in 1900 at the famed McShane Foundry in Baltimore, which is still a leading manufacturer of bells. The Landmark Grieco’s Restaurant in Exeter was destroyed by fire in August. Owner and Chef Pat Greenfield was rescued from her upstairs apartment by Exeter firemen at 2:30 a.m. The building was over 100 years old and had been a restaurant since 1935. Greg Lukatch was appointed Director of the Greater Pittston YMCA August. The Exeter Park and West Wyoming Hose Companies merged in August. Regge for Robert, the annual

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

2011: Junction Jam remembered two local fallen heroes

See 2011, Page 30

FILE PHOTO BY BILL TARUTIS

PAGE 29

With a new span linking Jenkins Twp. and Wyoming completed, the more than 100 year old 8th St. Bridge was demolished.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

2011: Outporuing of volunteers follows September flood Continued from Page 29

event for the Earthly Angels Autism Fund, drew some 200 people to Mt. Carmel Center for a night to “donate, dance and dine.” “JunctionJam’11,” a two-day music event at Pittston’s Jefferson Park in August, honored two soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan, First Lt. Jeffrey DePrimo and Spc. Dale Kridlo. Part of the proceeds was used to purchase the base of a donation tree for Pittston Memorial Library. The Care and Concern Free Pediatric Clinic, the Pittston Food Pantry and the Pittston City Parks Department also benefited.

PAGE 30

September

The story of September was, of course, the story of the year, The Flood of 2011. After torrential rains from Tropical Storms Irene and Lee the Susquehanna River crested at a record 42.66 feet at 3 a.m. Friday, September 9, more than two feet higher than it had in the 1972 Agnes Flood. West Pittston and Jenkins and Exeter Townships were the hardest hit areas by the Susquehanna, while the Lackawanna River, which also had a record crest, devastated parts of Duryea. In West Pittston, 880 homes and 26 businesses were affected. Among the homes 628 experienced basement flooding, 236 first floor flooding and 16 second floor flooding. Of those 15 were listed as unsafe for entry until further inspection and two were recommended for demolition. Duryea was number two on the hit list with 339 homes affected, 108 with basement and 192, first floor flooding. At least 12 houses had foundation damage. Three homes are confirmed as unsafe. In Jenkins Township 91 homes were affected, five basement only, 73 first floor and 13 second floor. Six got major structural damage. Three businesses, Magione Service, Milazzo Industries and River Street Ale House got structural damage. Snap Tools,

Cafe Italia, Mesko Motors, and Brew’s Brothers were also affected. In Exeter Township 36 single family homes, one multi-family building, 37 mobile homes and three businesses were flooded, a total of 77. Among the single family homes damage was listed as major in 29, minor in eight, while five were destroyed. Among the mobile homes five had major damage and 32 were destroyed. Exeter Borough estimated 28-30 homes affected on Susquehanna Avenue with basement and first floor flooding. In Pittston City 16 businesses received basement flooding. Homes on Towpath were flooded. One was declared unsafe and will be demolished. Another 810 homes on the other side of North Main got basement water. Wyoming had seven homes on Susquehanna Ave and one business in Bridge Plaza affected. Flood recovery and survival stories dominated the Dispatch pages throughout September. One story focused on the home of John and Charlene Maroni. They owned their dream home at the corner of Philadelphia and Susquehanna avenues in West Pittston only 11 months when the flood hit with 8 1/2 feet of water. Among the losses was a $3,000 baby grand piano they had only two months. Other September stories told of the destruction of a trailer park in Exeter Township, a business in Pittston, GT Fabrications, which had 15 feet of water and lost $2 million in equipment, the devastation of businesses and the library in West Pittston, national news broadcasts from West Pittston and the Eighth Street Bridge, the moving of Holy Rosary School and Vice President Joe Biden visiting Duryea. Then there were stories on the outpouring of help from and churches, the Salvation Army, scout troops, the Red Cross, the Wyoming Area and Pittston Area football teams, and numerous other groups and random strangers all of whom worked handson in the recovery or made donations and held fund raisers. Despite the flood, life had to go on and other September stories hinted at normalcy. Avoca

native Dick Callahan – the voice of the Oakland A’s and the University of California Golden Bears – was interview in the Dis-

patch. He offered to be a speaker at the Friendly Sons banquet in 2012 and after the story ran the

Sons took him up on the offer. Four local natives – Adele See 2011, Page 31

Dr. Jeﬀ Walker, DMD and his staﬀ wish you PEACE, JOY, HARMONY

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Continued from Page 30

Charney, Mickey Calabrese, Jude Donato and Sean Gilligan – recalled September 11, 2001 on the 10th anniversary of the attacks on America. The first three were in New York at or near the World Trade Center. Gilligan was at the Pentagon. Pittston Area, Kelly Keener, and Wyoming Area, Audra Amico, elected Homecoming Queens. Pittston Diner waitress Deb Harth returned $260 she found in a booth. Ground was broken on a project to convert the Hitchner Bakery in West Pittston into apartments.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

2011: Flooded WP Library reopens in donated location

October

Flood stories continued to dominate in October. One told of how the flood inundated all 28 homes in the Patch section of Port Blanchard, leaving several permanently uninhabitable. Senator Bob Casey came to West Pittston to meet with small business owners who were put out of business by the flood and

The flood aftermath was almost as big a story as the flood itself. Here, equipment begins the arduous cleanup task at Agolino's Restaurant in West Pittston. The restaurant took on close to 8 feet of water but bounced back and reopened before the end of the year. FILE PHOTO BY TONY CALLAIO

See 2011, Page 33

Build in the New Year!

EAGLE VIEW….. Great buys …VERY HIGH AND VERY DRY !!!! The Views at Eagle View in Jenkins Township are outstanding. All rear yards offer breathtaking views of the river and valley. You’ll never ﬁnd a better time to buy your lot. Put a deposit on any lot and build now or when you are ready. We are a custom builder and will build to your plan or modify one of ours to be your “Dream Home”. We have started our landscaping, utilities and pave at Eagle View…. making these spectacular lots even more outstanding. From South Main turn toward the river on Brady Street then left.

PAGE 31

RIVER SHORES… We still have two great properties in West Pittston’s River Shores….. We have a ranch with first floor master and master bath suite, fabulous stainless kitchen with separate pantry room, Three full baths, huge home theater, loft, high ceilings and two Fps. We also have a building lot for a custom home of any size in this great neighborhood. No flood.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Pride hosts Disability Mentoring Day for students

PAGE 32

International company headquartered in Exeter hosts 28 students with disabilities Pride Mobility Products Corporation and Quantum Rehab recently offered 28 students with disabilities an opportunity to be mentored by career professionals in the various fields at Pride and Quantum during Disability Mentoring Day (DMD) at Pride’s Exeter facility. Attendees also included Luzerne Intermediate Unit (LIU) 18 specialists and learning support teachers. DMD is designed to bring students and job seekers with disabilities into the workplace through hands-on career exploration, on-site job shadowing, and ongoing mentoring leading to internship and employment opportunities. Through Pride and Quantum’s DMD, participants were welcomed with remarks from Chairman & CEO Scott Meuser and had the opportunity to meet with professionals to learn the typical job responsibilities and the nec-

essary knowledge and skills needed for a specific vocation. Careers in research and development, marketing, education, reimbursement, government affairs, sales, and technical service were highlighted. “Disability Mentoring Day is a wonderful opportunity to not just introduce students to prospective career paths, but to truly inspire every facet of their lives,” said Mark E. Smith, Pride Consumer Research Manager. “Directly showing students with disabilities that their futures aren’t limited, but limitless, is a true privilege for those of us with disabilities who have sat in their seats, and gone on to inspiring, rewarding careers.” The event also included a tour of Pride’s facility, including the test lab, hands-on demonstrations of mobility products such as a manual and power wheelchair, personal perspective presentations from mobility product

users Mark E. Smith and Madonna Long, Pride Consumer Advocate, and a continental breakfast and lunch. Dimitri Theodorelos, a participant from Wyoming Valley West High School and a power wheelchair user, was impressed by the extensive testing facility at Pride. “I liked driving over the gravel in the test lab because it’s fun to run around on it and it showed my power chair can do a lot of things,” Theodorelos said. Diane Orloski, LIU 18 Transition Specialist, said both she and her colleagues were extremely impressed with Pride’s product innovations, professional atmosphere and kindness to the students. “I think it is really great for the kids to be so welcomed by Pride and to have the opportunity to look at how a business is run,” Orloski said. “I don’t think the students realized beforehand all of the jobs that are available to

them through hard work, dedication and believing in yourself.” Hosted by the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), the largest national cross-disability membership organization in the United States, the National Disability Mentoring Day Program began in 1999 with just11students with disabilities job shadowing in the White House under the Clinton administration. Today, DMD has grown to provide job-shadowing, career fairs and mentoring opportunities to more than 85,000 students and job seekers with disabilities in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. DMD is the nation’s largest job-shadowing program designed for people with disabilities, which allows career exploration to take place outside of the hiring context so that job seekers can meet and learn about employers committed to hiring

from this diverse and untapped workforce. To find out more about DMD, please visit the website, www.dmd-aapd.org. Pride Mobility Products Corporation is the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of mobility products including Jazzy Power Chairs, Pride Scooters, Pride Lift Chairs, and Pride Lifts and Ramps. Quantum Rehab, a division of Pride Mobility, manufactures innovative, complex rehab solutions. The company, headquartered in Exeter, also has operations in Australia, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Pride Mobility is dedicated to providing expertly designed, engineered, and tested products incorporating technologically innovative, intelligent features enabling end-users to achieve their mobility goals.

Continued from Page 31

She sweeps streets and tends flower in the downtown area. Hadley Construction acquired St. Mary’s Assumption Church, school, convent and rectory and slated the church and rectory for demolition. The siding was removed form the church and used on Hadley’s project in Hughestown where the company is converting the former Blessed Sacrament church into Grace Luxury Apartments. Jordan Thomas of Harding, 13, retired from Cart racing as a state champion. November

In November St. Monica’s Church in West Wyoming raffled of a homemade quilt created by Joann Kwasny. The 80 x 100 masterpiece had a retail value estimated at $1,000. Veterans were in the news in November. Frank Lewicki, 86, received his WWII medals some 60 years after the fact. He was an infantryman in the South Pacific theater. Richard White of Pittston was named AMVETS “American Veteran of the Year. Duryea barber Frank Brosso was profiled for having been in business cutting hair for a half century. The Care and Concern Food Pantry marked three years of service in November having distributed over 22,000 food parcels to the needy. In the November election, a women who grew up serving hot dogs at the Majestic Lunch on Main Street in Pittston was elected Luzerne County District attorney. Stephanie Salavantis, whose grandfather and father own the Majestic, out-spent incumbent Jackie Musto-Carroll by 2to-1. Pittston said yes to a home rule study and elected seven members of a study commission. Four with local ties were elected to the Luzerne County bench. Fred Pierontoni, Ed Vogue, Lesa Gelb and Jen Rodgers were sworn in on December 30. But Greater Pittston was shut out in the election for the new Luzerne County Council. The biggest election news here was what happened in Wyoming

Area where 20-year school board incumbent Toni Valenti and her running mate Nick DeAngelo were defeated by a slate of candidates including Independent Mary Louise Degnan. The office of Congressman Lou Barletta announced that he introduced a bill that will rename the Pittston Post office “The Trooper Joshua D. Miller Post Office Building.” Miller, a Pittston native who lived in Suscon, was killed in the line of duty in 2009. Downtown stayed in the news in November. A co-op art gallery called the ArtsSEEN Gallery opened at 71 South Main, Sapphire Salon noted its 10th Anniversary with a visit from Edyta Silwinska a professional dancer on “Dancing With The Stars.” Also, Keith and Jessica Homschek opened Shooters, a state of the art billiards parlor, at 10 South Main. John Cosgrove, 92, the Pittston native who spent 70 years working in the media in Washington D.C., was back in the news in November. He was the honored guest at a reception at Fox Hill. The reception was a kick off for the Library’s capital campaign for its proposed Cosgrove Annex which will house Cosgrove’s personal papers. He donated $50,000. There was flood recovery news in November. Sam Marranca reopened his restaurant Café Italia on River Road in Jenkins Township less than two months after 5 1/2 feet of water receded. Groove Train, a renowned party dance band lead by Dave Chaump of West Pittston, recorded an album of original songs. Austin Welsh, a PA junior, finished his novel “Alex and Sky.” It will be published in January. December

The first week of December saw more stories of flood recovery as Agolino’s Restaurant in West Pittston and Independent Graphics in Jenkins Township both reopened at their original sites. Another new downtown busi-

ness was profiled in December. Pharmacist Joseph Albert bucked a trend of franchise pharmacies by opening an old-fashioned one-man owner/operated pharmacy at 201 South Main. Local rock legends, The Cadillacs, played their last gig in December at Bar on Oak. The band, founded by Gene Guarilia, had been GP’s house rock band for 20 years. Another downtown story in December told of the opening of Open Space. The unique concept is a city authority owned space suitable for renting for just about any occasion. The opening reception included wine, a hors d’oeuvres buffet by Palazzo and music by Eddie and the Dreamers. Boden, a fashion retailer based in London, had an outlet sale there the next day. WWII Vet Ed Strucke was profiled in December. Strucke, 95, served in the Navy as a paymaster aboard a troop transport. Another Vet story saw Dupont’s Jerry Guanari inducted into the Geno Merli Center Hall of Fame. Controversy rose up at Pittston Area School District as the school board members voted 6-3 to rescind a hiring policy that would combat nepotism and cronyism and that they had voted for less than a year earlier. Board President Tony Guarigila was hammered in editorials, on radio and TV for saying the policy was rescinded “Because I don’t see that people are following it.” One final flood story for the year was about a 15-year-old

Avoca musician. Jordan Marsh recorded and produced CD of Christmas music on guitar to raise money for Christmas toys for Duryea boys and girls displaced by the flood. Through sales of his CD and donations he raised $5,000. Redistricting was in the news as the year wound down. The Legislative Reapportionment Commission tried to carve Pittston, Hughestown and Duryea out of State Rep Mike Carroll’s district but he fought back and won. There were plenty of changes though. Lou Barletta gave Pittston to Tim Holden from St. Clair and John Blake picked up the Pittston area. Christmas stories dominated the last few weeks of the year, one of which was cheery and one not so much. The happy tale told how the Miller family, Lois, Robert and son Robbie, of Hughestown traditionally hosted a sandwich and goodie break for Santa Claus and the Hughestown firemen as they toured the borough with the jolly old guy. Lois Miller said, “It’s nothing for me to have 25 firemen and Santa in my house.” But another story told of the work of a Grinch, or a gang of Grinches, who stole a large blow-up inflatable Christmas decoration from the O’Brien property on Camp Ground Road in Exeter Township. Jackie O’Brien had been collecting the inflatables for her grandson Josh Sutton for 20 years. A $500 reward was offered.

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PAGE 33

talk about SBA loans to get them back on their feet. Symbolically they met in the hallowed out shell of Agolino’s Restaurant which had 7 1/2 feet of water. The flood reached up Exeter Avenue in West Pittston to Old Mill Pine, the hardware store owned by Jeff and Christine Holtz. The store was closed only 24 hours. They reopened without power and flooded homeowners came in to buy hoses, nozzles, mops, gloves, tarps, squeegees, extension cords, flashlights, batteries and sump pumps. Jeff’s mother’s home, two of his brothers’ homes, a woodworking shop and a three-unit apartment building in the original store building were flooded. An October story told of the extensive damage to the Luzerne County National Recreation Trail in Pittston. After the story ran, the Luzerne County Redevelopment Authority closed the trail. A local survey of local municipalities showed that over 22 million pounds of flood debris had been hauled away to landfills by the first week of October. With Agolino’s out of business the Moose Lodge picked up the slack offering a Sunday morning breakfast buffet prepared by Chef Pat Greenfield. The West Pittston Library reopened in the Insalaco Shopping Center in West Pittston in a donated storefront Area chefs served a free dinner for flood victims at Mt. Carmel Center. Sponsored by the WA Key Club, FloodFest – an event featuring 13 bands at Jake Sobeski Stadium in West Pittston – raised money for the West Pittston Library. In non-flood news in October Paul and Linda DePietro opened a pizzeria, New York Pizza Cucina, at 74 South Main at the historic site of the city’s first bakery. At its annual banquet the Greater Pittston YMCA presented Leadership Awards to Peter Dancheck, Lou Ciampi, Krystina Price and Tom Reilly. Angela Biscotto, Pittston’s Mrs. Clean, was profiled in October.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

2011: November general election brings some surprises

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

In the towns

Garbage stickers available starting Jan. 17 Happy New Year my friends! As we start the New Year, I want to share an Irish New Year blessing with all of you: “May the new year bring the warmth of home and hearth to you … the cheer and goodwill of friends to you … the hope of a childlike heart to you … the joy of a thousand angels to you … the love of the Son and God’s peace to you.” Garbage Stickers

The 2012 Avoca Borough garbage stickers can be purchased from Therese Wrubel at the Avoca Municipal Building, 752 Main St., beginning Tuesday, Jan. 17. The office will be open Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. and Fridays from 6-7 p.m. The fee schedule for purchasing the window sticker in order to have up to three bags collected weekly is as follows: $155 if purchased by February 21; $160 if purchased between February 22 and March 21; $170 if purchased between March 22 and April 21; $180 if purchased between April 22 and May 21; and $190 if pur-

AVOCA

JACKIE BORTHWICK-GALVIN 457-3351 avocahappenings@verizon.net

chased between May 22 and June 21. Please note delinquent accounts will be referred to district court after June 21, and all Avoca home owners and renters are obligated to purchase a garbage sticker. Residents who are unable to stop by the municipal building to purchase a garbage sticker or would like to purchase one before Wrubel’s office hours begin, can mail a check made payable to Avoca Borough and a self-addressed stamped envelope to Avoca Borough c/o Therese Wrubel, 129 Factory St., Avoca, PA 18641. If you have any other questions please call Wrubel at 4574891. Thank You Note

I recently received the following note from the Ladies Auxil-

iary to V.F.W. Post 8335 they asked me to share with all of you: “As we enter a new year, the Ladies Auxiliary to V.F.W. Post 8335 would like to extend heart felt thanks to the Sunday Dispatch for the generous publicity they have given during the past year. Articles are sent in often and they are always published without question. As a result all of our meetings and projects have been very successful. Also, we would like to extend sincere thanks to the Veterans who stand behind us and all of our endeavors namely, Commander Joseph Kitcho, Steward Thomas Vermac, and the members of Post 8335. From them we receive moral support and sometimes financial support. For this we are truly grateful. We wish the entire staff of the Sunday Dispatch and all our friends a very happy, healthy, peaceful, and prosper-

ous New Year.” Piontek is Back

Like many Duryea businesses, the Bernard J. Piontek Funeral Home Inc. was deeply impacted by the September floods. Although they remained open and continued to have services offsite at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Rectory for the past several months, Funeral Director Michelle Piontek is happy to announce that the funeral home’s on-site visitation room has been completely restored. Anyone who is in need of their services may call the office at 457-4301.

The V.F.W. Post 8335 Ladies Auxiliary will meet Monday, Jan. 2 at 7 p.m. in the post home, 915 Main St. President June Fitzgerald will preside over the meeting. Joan Emlaw and Sylvia Smith will be the hostesses for the evening. Swearing In

On Tuesday, Jan. 3, Judge Fred Pierantoni will swear in Avoca Borough Council Members Gary Halagarda, Michael Fuller, Susan LeLack, and Joseph Satkowski at 6:30 p.m. in theAvocaMunicipalBuilding, 752 Main St. The public is invited to attend. Food Giveaway

Masses Today

Queen of the Apostles Parish will celebrate the feast of the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, today at the 8, 9:30, and 11 a.m. Masses. People of all faith traditions are welcome. Please note this is a holy day of obligation for Catholics. No CCD Classes

Queen of the Apostles Parish will not have religious education classes January 1 and 2 in observance of the New Year’s Day holiday.

The Avoca Lions Club will have their monthly food giveaway Thursday, Jan. 5 from 46:30 p.m. at the Bethel United Methodist Church, 532 Main St. Volunteers are needed to unload the truck at 1:30 p.m. Individuals who use this service are encouraged to bring boxes and bags with them for their goods. For more information, please call Mary Ann at 457-7619. Pastoral Council

Queen of the Apostles Parish’s pastoral council will meet Mon-

VFW Auxiliary See AVOCA, Page 35

r a e Y w e N y p p a H

PAGE 34

From all of us at

Station 112 received a visit from Senator John Blake and Representative Michael Carroll during its annual Christmas party. Both Sen. Blake and Rep. Carroll provided monies recently to Station 112 to purchase and install Opticon lights on the department's apparatus. These opticon lights work in conjunction with the vehicle's emergency warning lights, and assists in pre-empting traffic signals during responses, providing emergency responders the green light. This upgrade ensures the safety of both responders as well as the traveling public. Sen. Blake and Rep. Carroll are pictured above with Station 112 members.

Konicki Pharmacy

278 Main St., Dupont

655-8610

Open January 2, 9am - 6pm

With the New Year upon us, many people will make resolutions to make positive changes in their lives. While pledging to lose weight and exercise are always popular and good choices, why not considering mixing in the gift of volunteering too? Volunteering for an organization not only is a tremendous help to them but also a tremendous help to you too. Yes, I said you. Helping others sets off a reaction within our souls that builds us into better people. By reaching out to others in need, we really reach within ourselves and often discover the best version of who we are. While we’re on the subject of helping others, Norie K. and her Crossin Towers “Sorority Sisters” recent “Freedom Isn’t Free” Christmas card writing campaign is a great example of helping others and making a positive difference. What started as a small project amongst a group of friends quickly grew into a successful outreach program that yielded more than 1,000 cards being signed, sealed, and delivered to the veterans residing at the VA Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre and theWalter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland.

Avoca Continued from Page 34

day, Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary’s Rectory, 715 Hawthorne St. Women’s Guild

Queen of the Apostles Parish’s women’s guild will meet Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary’s Rectory, 715 Hawthorne St. Worship Committee

Queen of the Apostles Parish’s worship committee will meet Monday, Jan. 16 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary’s Rectory, 715 Hawthorne St. Social Concerns

JACKIE BORTHWICK-GALVIN 457-3351 duryeahappenings@verizon.net

And I am happy to report, that this special delivery to Walter Reed spurred volunteers and staff at the medical center to reciprocate the gift and send more than 1,000 cards to the VA’s patients for Christmas. Take a lesson this New Year from the “Freedom Isn’t Free” campaign … make a difference … volunteer. Thank You Note

Speaking of the Crossin Towers “Sorority Sisters,” the ladies would like to thank the members of the Excelsior Hose Company No. 2, the first and second students of Holy Rosary School, and Ellen at the V.F.W. for all of their help in making the “Freedom Isn’t Free” Christmas card writing campaign a success.

Excelsior Meeting

cision of Our Lord, distribution of wine from St. John’s Day and Benediction; and on Monday, Jan. 2 at 8:30 a.m.: Holy Mass Solemnity of the Holy Name of Jesus.

The members of the Excelsior Hose Co. No. 2 will meet Thursday, Jan. 5 at 7 p.m. at the hose company, 798 Foote Ave. The officers for 2012 will also be sworn in at this time. All members are invited to attend.

Piontek is Back

Garbage Stickers

The 2012 Duryea Borough garbage stickers are on sale now. Stickers can be purchased Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to noon and 1-3 p.m. at the Duryea Municipal Building,315 Main St. Stickers can also be purchased Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from 5-8 p.m. at the municipal building. Prices of the garbage stickers are one bag – $80, two bags – $135, three bags – $175, and four bags – $215. Residents are asked to remove their old garbage sticker when they place their new one in the window. Garbage stickers are due by February 1.

PNCC Services

Holiday Hours

The Rev. Carmen Bolock and the parishioners of St. Mary’s Polish National Catholic Church, 200 Stephenson St., invite the community to Holy Mass today at 9 a.m. - Circum-

The Duryea Borough Street Department and borough offices will be closed Monday, Jan. 2 in observance of New Year’s Day. All collections will be one date late this week. Recycling will be

Until Next Time

ings@verizon.net or call me at 457-3351. Please be sure to include your name and phone number with any correspondence in case I need to reach you. Have a great week!

That’s about it for this week! If you would like something to appear in next Sunday’s edition of the Avoca News, please e-mail or call me with your information by Thursday at noon. You can email me at avocahappen-

collected January 5 and 6.

REHOSKI’S MARKET 201 Foote Avenue, Duryea FREE DELIVERY! CALL 457-8881

OPEN DAILY: 6 a.m.-7 p.m. • Saturday & Sunday ‘til 5 p.m.

Bottom Round Roast ........................$2.99 lb. Rump Roast .....................................$2.99 lb. Eye Round Roast..............................$3.99 lb. Lean Stewing Beef ...........................$3.99 lb. Fresh Cut Minute Steaks...................$4.59 lb. Smoked Bacon.................................$4.99 lb.

FRESH & SMOKED KIELBASI

Turkey Breast ...................................$5.99 lb. Slicing or Stick Pepperoni ................$4.99 lb. Clearﬁeld American Cheese .............$4.99 lb.

Legion Auxiliary

The American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post 585 will meet Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the post home,329 Main St. All members (senior or junior) are

invited to attend. 2012 dues for the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post 585 are due. Anyone who has not paid their dues or updated their information is asked to do so as soon as possible. Also any female, adult or child, who is interested in becoming a member of the auxiliary, is welcome and encouraged to inquire about the application process. To be eligible, the applicant must be a relative of a veteran, living or deceased. For more information, please call the post at 457-4242 or stop by the post home. Little League Signups

The Duryea Little League will have sign-ups for the 2012 season January 24, 25, 26, and 31 from 6-8 p.m. at the Duryea Municipal Building, 315 Main St. Until Next Time

That’s about it for this week! If you would like something to appear in next Sunday’s edition of the Duryea News, please e-mail or call me with your information by Thursday at noon. You can email me at duryeahappenings@verizon.net or call me at 457-3351. Please be sure to include your name and phone number with any correspondence in case I need to reach you.

AMERICAN LEGION POST 585 DURYEA

Commander John Mlaker Ladies Auxilliary President

Alice Resavy

S.A.L’s Commander

Dan Loch

and all of its members

PAGE 35

Queen of the Apostles Parish’s social concerns committee will meet Tuesday, Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary’s Rectory.

DURYEA

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Crossin’s ‘Sorority Sisters’ make a difference

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Council to reorganize at meeting on Monday The reorganization meeting of Dupont Council will take place on Monday, Jan. 2, at 7:00 p.m. with Judge Fred Pierantoni administering the oath of office. All residents are invited to attend. The first regular monthly meeting of the New Year will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 7:00 p.m. and all meetings thereafter will be held on the second Tuesday of each month. Extended Hours

Patty McDonald, Borough Manager announced that municipal office hours have been extended for the month of January as follows: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the exception of Thursday when office hours will be from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Borough residents can now purchase their 2012 refuse bags, window sticker and calendars, at the municipal office, no billing notices have been mailed. The 2012 refuse fee must be paid by January 30. Dupont landlords must notify the borough office of the tenants’ names for all their properties. Ordinance requires all landlords to report the names of tenants so that all can be properly billed for refuse collection as well as have contact information should an emergency arise. AMVETS Calendars

The AMVETS Post 189 has 2012 calendars are available from any AMVET member or by contacting Post Commander Bernie McDonald at 817-4858. Donation is $30.00 and will benefit 16 VA hospital and homes including the WilkesBarre VA Medical Center and the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center, Scranton.

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Eco-Tip

Here is Joey Jones’s Eco-Tip of the week: Remember to plant a tree in the spring especially if you had a live Christmas Tree for the holiday. Trees are good for the environment.

DUPONT ANN MARIE PADDOCK

654-0897 dupont.news@comcast.net Sacred Heart Meetings

Sacred Heart of Jesus Church meeting dates for January: Women’s Society will meet on Tuesday, Jan. 3, at 6:30 p.m. in the church hall. The Holy Name Society will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 7:30 p.m. in the church hall. New members are always welcome. Parish Pastoral Council will meet on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. in lower level of the rectory. Wafer Dinner

The Women’s Society of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church will hold their annual Christmas Wafer Dinner on Jan. 15 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Hall beginning at 2:00 p.m. The event will be catered by Coopers’ of Scranton. Cost per person is $10.00 due at time of reservation. Reservations can be made by calling Diane Skrzysowski at 654-6639 or Carol Klimek at the rectory office number of 6543713. Senior Outreach

Senior Citizens’ Outreach Committee of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church continues to reach those senior members of the parish who cannot attend Mass by mailing the church bulletin to them weekly and providing them with a small gift at Christmas and Easter. If you have a family member or know of a parishioner who is homebound or in a nursing home who would like to receive the weekly bulletin, please contact the rectory at 654-3713. Senior Citizen Outreach will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 11, at 6:00 p.m. in the parish hall. Happy Birthday

Special Happy Birthday wishes to Ann Paddock, who will celebrate her 90th birthday on Ja-

nuary 7 with family and friends. VFW Meeting

The Dupont V.F.W. Post 4909 meeting will be held Monday, Jan. 2, at the post home. Commander Dave Burrier will preside. The Home Association meeting will follow. Nomination of officers will be accepted. Refreshments and camaraderie will occur after both meetings. Smoke Detectors

The Dupont Fire Department is a participant in WNEP’s Operation Save-A-Life and has limited number of smoke detectors available free of charge to borough residents. You can request a smoke detector by calling us and leaving a message at 654-5121. Mother of Sorrows

Holy Mother of Sorrows Church ‘s Nominating Committee is in process of gathering names of individuals who would be willing to serve on their Parish Board in 2012. Submit your name to Alex Dubeck (954-0476) or Helen Jendrey (655-1448) prior to the Annual Meeting, which will be held on January 29. Blood Drive

The VFW Post 4909, Main St. will host a blood drive on Tuesday, Jan. 31, from 12:30 to 6 p.m. To schedule an appointment call 1-800-RED CROSS. To be eligible to donate blood, an individual must be 17, meet height and weight requirements and be in generally good health. Parental permission is required for 16 yr. old donors. Walk-ins are always welcome. For more information contact the post home at 654-9104.

Service Schedule

Dupont Service Schedule for the week of Jan. 1: Tuesday, Jan. 3 - Refuse Wednesday, Jan 4 – Recycling cans and bottles Thursday, Jan. 5 - Yard waste Friday, Jan. 5 – Ashes - weight limits for all containers - 30lbs. Raffle Winners

Final week winners of Elko’s Jr. Bowlers annual fundraiser: #256- Abbie Jones; #258- Cathy Piechota; #3- George Koltura; #271- Dupont Jr. Bowlers; #175Brianna Arcarese; #166- Robert Adomiak; #261-Tom Spurlin; #125- Sarah Solano; #255- John Piechota; #274- Ray Wasko; #198- Billy Elko, Jr.; #112-ZTerri Maruhnich; #66- Karen Wruble; #100- Halle Gronka; #206Bryan Shupp. Bowling Results

Dupont Lanes Leagues scores:

Bowling

Universal High Scratch Series Scores: David Titton, 729; Jerry Coggins, 708; William Elko, 704; Dale Reese, 699; Peter Chodnicki, 627; Francis Pupa, 622; Mike Gotcha, 576; Edward Collins, 567; Mark Prebish, 561; Nicholas Berlinski, 553. National High Scratch Series Scores: Rich Gorzkowski, 702; Bruce Rydzy, 694; Dale Reese, 675; Edward Collins, 672; Jerry Coggins, 672; Neal Elko, 672; Allyn Jr. Ferretti, 647; John Kulick, 640; Mark Kulick, 638; Jeff Lopata, 636. Junior/Senior High Scratch Series Scores: Men’s Division: Tyler Spurlin, 593; Austin Elko, 572; Zachary McKitish, 547; Dave Pacovsky, 540; Cameron Marotto, 537. Women’s Division: Courtney Osiecki, 430; Irene Magdon, 421; Katie Wynn, 364; Michelle Grossbauer, 302. Warehouse Mixed High Scratch Series Scores: Men’s Division: John Borgia, 684; Chris DeHaas, 597; Frank

Obitz, 562; Matt Charney, 561; Dom Tafani, 550. Women’s Division: Melony Yurek, 398. Magic Circle High Scratch Series Scores: Men’s Division: Matt Charney, 676; Greg Renfer, 620; Joseph Chmiel, 615; John Colarusso, 607; Wally Zieminski, 602; Paul Chmiel, 598; Russ Stevens, 579; Kyle Wagner, 569; Don Zieminski, 565; Bill Pupa, 565; Rich Jr. Aston, 565. Women’s Division: Lisa Heck, 476; Denise Gordon, 469; Marytheresa Pupa, 403; Sarahy Helcoski, 318; Ashley Fuller, 302. Dupont Bowlerettes High Scratch Series Scores: Kim Kishel, 513; Trisha Chmiel, 512; Rose McDade, 483; Donna Kasa, 475; Debbie Stevens, 474; Barbara Slusser, 471; Marytheresa Pupa, 467; MaryLou Fereck, 457; Gracelynn Williamson, 445. American High Scratch Series Scores: Dave Kern, 697; Neal elko, 692; Edward Collins, 650; Mark Kulick, 640; Tom Spurlin, 623; Chris Kasa, 613; Pete Latona, 603; Mike Morrissey, 600; Gerry Reilly, 596; Francis Pupam 586. Sunday Night Mixed High Scratch Series Scores: Men’s Division: Joe Argenio, 583; Jim Rowlands, 568; Joe Sr. Wruble, 563; Russ Stevens, 527; Terry Salek, 518. Women’s Division: Gracelynn Williamson, 458; MaryLou Fereck, 438; Marytheresa Pupa, 424; Courtney McKitish, 406; Marianne Argenio, 350. Got News?

If you have an article which you would like to submit you can send the information todupont.news@comcast.netor by calling 407-0231.Send your news items by Wednesday evening. Please include a contact phone number.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

West Pittston Library held an evening of caroling led by member of the Board of Trustees Amy Hetro and a dozen members and friends of the library. After caroling, the group was treated to hot chocolate, cookies and doughnuts. PHOTOS BY TONY CALLAIO

Three WP Scouts attain ‘Eagle Scout’ honor The WA Senior Parents will meet Jan 11 at 7:00 p.m. at the Secondary Center in room 164. Planning for the All-Night Party continues. The next fundraiser will be Januzzi’s Pizza starting January 16. All parents of the Wyoming Area Class of 2012 are invited to attend. Library Programs

Tony Callaio 654-5358 tonyc150@verizon.net

for you, while remaining rooted in the Earth. Come prepared for a strong asana with upbeat fun music and relaxation. Softening into Strength: The Art of Letting Go (All Levels) - Thursdays, 6:15-7:15 p.m. By letting go of tightness and contraction in the body and mind, we release into inherent and unlimited healing potential. Ann will lead you through this gentle restorative yoga of long release intended to quiet the mind, relieve tightness in connective tissues throughout the body, in order to open the self into calm delight, radiant pureness of being and innate strength of spirit. Classes are held in the former American Legion Building at 316 Linden St. by the Montgomery Ave. Elementary School. Fee is $7 per person drop-in;

discounted punch passes are available West Pittston Library Book Club - First Tuesday of Each Month, 6:45 p.m. Grab a cup of coffee and join the WPL Book Club in an informal discussion of member-selected books. There’s no need to purchase the books; just ask at the circulation desk for an available copy of the month’s selection. The club will not meet during the month of January. The book club is currently meeting off-site. Please call the library for details. Friends of the Library next meeting is on Jan. 9 at 12:30 p.m. at the library. Children’s Programs Weekly Story Time - Every Friday, 1:00 p.m. Wind, money fish, sunshine, birds, picnic, bugs.

What do these things have in common? They’re all prior Story Time Themes. Each week, Summer, the Youth Services Coordinator, chooses a fun, kid-friendly theme, reads a few books aloud to the group, and gathers the children and adults to complete a related craft. Please sign-up each week by Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. Some events require registration. Stop by the circulation desk or call the library at 654-9847 to sign up. If a cost is associated with the program, the fee will be required at the time of sign-up to reserve your spot. Tax Reminder

West Pittston Tax Collector George L. Miller announced the penalty period phase is now over and books are closed for 2011. New billings for 2012 will be out in February. Office hours are: Tuesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturdays 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and

by appointment. For an appointment, call 570-655-3801. Any property owners not receiving a tax bill are requested to contact the tax office at 655-7782 ext. 232. Birthday Notes

Celebrating this week: Carissa Belles, 1/02; Alison Wolfgang, 1/3; Sara Radzwilka, 1/04; Maryjo Hetro, 1/6; Dana Phillips, 1/6; Alexa Blandina, 1/7; and Nicholas Mozal, 1/7. Thought for the Week

Circumstances are beyond human control, but our conduct is in our own power. Quote of the Week

“When we are afraid we ought not to occupy ourselves with endeavoring to prove that there is no danger, but in strengthening ourselves to go on in spite of the danger.” - Mark Rutheford Bumper Sticker

History is still happening.

PAGE 37

Adult Programs Beginner Yoga - Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Anne Bramblett-Barr, library director and certified yoga instructor, leads a class for all experience levels. By building a strong foundation in classical yoga postures, proper breathing and alignment, you will increase your strength, flexibility, range of motion, balance and feel more focused and relaxed. Vinyasa Yoga (All Levels) Mondays, 6:15-7:15 p.m. Get ready to deepen your practice. This class will allow you to open your hearts fully to whatever the universe has in store

WEST PITTSTON

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Holiday Storefront Contest judging tomorrow Judging for the first ever Holiday Storefront Contest in Exeter Borough, managed by Junior Council Representative Angela Marie Coco of the Exeter Borough Council, will take place Monday, Jan. 2. The top three prizes are: 1st place, $250, 2nd place, $150, 3rd place, $100. Friendly Circle

The Friendly Circle Senior Citizens will meet on Jan. 5 at 1p.m. in the Exeter Community room on Schooley Street. Host for the meeting is Kate Prokopach. New members are always welcome. WA Senior Parents

The WA Senior Parents will meet Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Secondary Center in Room 164. Planning for the All-Nite Party continues. The next fund raiser will be Januzzi’s Pizza starting Monday, Jan. 16. All Senior Parents are invited to attend. Refuse Stickers

PAGE 38

Refuse stickers for Exeter Borough are available at the mu-

EXETER EILEEN CIPRIANI

287-3349 ecipriani@comcast.net

nicipal building. Stickers are $150 and $110 for senior citizens 65 years or older by March 31. These are the rebate prices until Feb. 28. From March 1 to March 31, the price will be $180 for anyone under 65 and $130 for senior citizens 65 years or older. From April 1 to April 30, the sticker will be in penalty and the charge will be $250 for everyone. On May 1 the delinquent list will be turned over to the chief of police and citations will be issued for a fine plus the $250 refuse bill. Office hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. until. Beginning Jan. 4, the refuse office will be open Wednesdays 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. through March. Pay by mail to: Refuse Office, 1101 Wyoming Avenue, Exeter, 18643 and a sticker and calendar will be mailed to you. Please include self addressed stamped en-

velope with your payment. Pay with cash, check, money order or credit card but no American Express. Any questions call Lynda at 654-3301 Ext. 2. Recycling Reminder

Exeter residents are reminded to call recycling coordinator Karen Szwast at 570-654-0933 to report missed recycling. She asks residents to please be patient with the street department workers as the different materials are sometimes collected in separate trucks. Wait until the afternoon and call Szwast with your address and your materials will be collected. Be sure to place the recyclables curbside by 6 a.m. and prepare them as described on your recycling calendar. Ensure the proper paper recyclable is placed curbside on the appropriate week.

New calendars will be available Dec. 1. Cosmopolitan Seniors

The Cosmopolitan Seniors will meet again on Tuesday Jan. 3, at 1 p.m. in St. Anthony’s Center, in Exeter. Vic Malinowski will preside. Hosts/Hostesses have been contacted. Travel coordinator Johanna is accepting reservations for a trip on Thursday, Jan. 19, to Sands Casino. Pickups in Exeter and Pittston. You do not have to be a member to come on these trips. Details can be obtained from Johanna at 655-2720. St. Barbara Parish

There will be no Religious Education class on Sunday, Jan. 1 or Monday, Jan. 2. Classes will resume on Sunday, Jan. 8 for grades 7 to 12 and Monday, Jan. 9 for grades K to 6. The Mass Book for 2012 is available. Mass Offerings are accepted on a first come, first serve basis.

The envelopes for January and February 2012 have been ordered and you should receive them this month. The children’s envelopes and the 2012 St. Barbara Parish calendars are available in the back of each church. One calendar per family please. His Excellency The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton and the Office for Parish Life & Evangelization/Family Life invite couples celebrating their 25th or 50th wedding anniversary in 2012 to a diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, June 3. The event includes a 2:30 p.m. Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral followed by a reception. Requests for an invitation, with a mailing address that will be accurate in March, should be made through the pastor before March 1. Reminder

That is all for this week; remember if you have any events or news you would like listed in the Exeter Town column, you can reach me at 287-3349 orecipriani@comcast.net.

Three Boy Scouts from West Pittston Boy Scout Pack 302 became Eagle Scouts in a ceremony held at the Moose Lodge. Shown are new Eagle Scouts, left to right: Eric Werbin, Connor Mangan, Bob Messina, Jr. being pinned by Assistant Scout Master Bob Messina, Sr. and Scout Master Pat Messina.

On Sunday, Dec. 18, Cub Scout Pack 366 of St. Monica’s Parish in West Wyoming held their Christmas Party and Pack meeting. The boys received their pinewood derby kits from Santa and had the opportunity to place their Christmas requests. The boys who earned their Bobcat badges were Aidan Dollak, Caryle Robinson and Benjamin Schell. Scientist activity pins were presented to Webelos Joshua Carlson, William Fauntleroy, Nicholas Perry, Michael Remley, Robert Salvo and Luke Stavish. Forester and Naturalist pins were presented to Joseph Chiampi, Michael DeSanto, Caryle Robinson, Joseph Sanfilippo, Benjamin Schell, Robert Semyon, George Sharkey and Christopher Sinibaldi. Cub Scouts also received activity segments for participating in the caroling program presented to the residents at the Laurels in Wyoming. Activity segments were presented to the Cubs who assisted with the supper for the homeless members of Mother Theresa’s Haven that was held on Dec. 9 at St. Monica’s Parish in Wyoming. Tiger Cubs

EILEEN CIPRIANI 287-3349 ecipriani@comcast.net The Library has a Book Club 2012 Garbage Stickers Discussion Group that meets on Wyoming Borough 2012 gar- the second Wednesday of each bage stickers are on sale at the month at noon in the Miller borough office. The cost re- Room. mains $200 per year/$190 for seThe Friends of the Wyoming niors. Half year stickers are Free Library meet on the third available. First half stickers are Wednesday of the month. The due by January 31. Beginning membership dues are $5 per Feb. 1, a $50 late fee will be at- year. The group plans events, tached. parties and many different fundPayment by mail is welcome. raising programs for the Library. Please send a self-addressed Visit the Library located at stamped envelope along with 358 Wyoming Avenue, Wyomyour payment to Wyoming Bor- ing. For valuable information, ough, 277 Wyoming Avenue, access the Library on the web at Wyoming, PA 18644. www.wyominglibrary.org or call 570-693-1364. Senior Citizens

The regular meeting of the Wyoming, West Wyoming Seniors will be Tuesday, Jan. 3, at St. Monica meeting center at 1:30 p.m. with President Frank Perfinski presiding. Servers are Sam DeSalvo, Mickey DeSalvo and Genny Labaty. New members are always welcome and you do not have to be a resident to join. The club meets the first and second Tuesday of the month. Refreshments are served after the short meeting and bingo is played. Dues for the coming year will be collected. Parking is always available and for the handicapped. Friendly Circle

The Friendly Circle Senior Citizens will meet on Jan. 5 at 1p.m. in the Exeter Community room on Schooley Street. Host for the meeting is Kate Prokopach. New members are always welcome. Library News

John Roberts, Librarian and the Staff of the Wyoming Library, said to watch for new events, new books and programs in January. The Scrabble Club meets on the first Monday of the month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The next session will be Monday, Jan. 2. Bring your Scrabble board. Newcomers are welcome.

Cub Scout Pack 366 of St. Monica's Parish in West Wyoming held their Christmas Party and Pack meeting. The boys who earned their Bobcat badges are pictured left to right: Aidan Dollak, Caryle Robinson and Benjamin Schell.

St. Monica’s Parish

St. Monica’s Parish’s “Night at the Races” is Friday, Feb. 10, in Our Lady of Sorrows’ Church Hall at 363 West Eighth Street, West Wyoming. Dave Kuharchik, WBRE news personality, will be the Master of Ceremonies. The doors will open at 6:00 p.m. Post-time is 7:00 p.m. Admission is $10 and advance ticket sales will be available only until 175 seats are sold. There will be no paid admission accepted at the door. Admission includes food, beer and soda the entire night. The hall is handicapped accessible with ample lighted parking. Horses are $10 each and race. Sponsor advertising at $50 to $100 is available in the program and on the projection screen before the race. Forms can be obtained at St. Monica’s Parish churches following the weekend masses or you can also contact Tom Tomsak at 237-2188 or by e-mail at rtesix@gmail.com to purchase advance tickets, horses or advertise as a race sponsor. The owner of the winning horse for each race will win $50 and does not need to be present to win. A Chinese Auction of gift baskets and gift cards will also be held. Donations of any type are greatly appreciated and can be forwarded to St. Monica’s Parish c/o “Night at the Races”,

Tiger Cubs of Pack 366, St. Monica's Parish, toured West Wyoming Hose Company #1 . Pictured checking out the original fire hall bell are, left to right: Ryan Bonin, Roman Alder and Thomas Lynch.

363 West Eighth Street, West Wyoming, PA. Bible Study will resume on Thursday, Jan. 5, after the 7:00 p.m. Liturgy. Bible study is followed by the night Prayer of the Church. C.C.D. teachers meeting will be on Monday, Jan. 9, at 6:00 pm. at the Rectory. Check out www.stmonicanepa.com. Updates are posted and listed on the Home Page. Photos of various events are in a special folder under Happenings. The Links give valuable sources of information regarding Church life and opportunities for spiritual advancement. If you do not receive the Catholic Light in the mail, you can read it on line. You can even pray the Rosary on Line. JMJ Radio 750 AM is located on the second floor of the Oblates of Saint Joseph, in Pittston is approaching four years of broadcasting the very best in Ca-

tholic Radio. You can access the station on the Internet by going to www.jmj750.com. There you can pull up Stations in the U.S. and “Listen Live.” Ed and Carol Niewinski own the station. Their email address is ed.niewinski@gmail.com. The station is 100% dependent on listener support. The 2012 PA Pro-Life Essay Contest is open to all students in grades 7 to 12. Students must write a pro-life essay about abortion, euthanasia or stem cell research with a word limit of 500 for grades 7-9 and 750 for grades 10-12. Deadline is March 1. Each essay must include a cover sheet with the student’s name, address, phone number, grade and name of the school. Essays may be emailed to lifelines@paprolife.org or mailed to the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation, 4800 Johnstown Rd. Suite 102, Harrisburg, PA 17109.

PAGE 39

Tiger Cubs of Pack 366, St. Monica’s Parish, toured West Wyoming Hose Company #1 on Shoemaker Avenue recently. Jim Ostrowski and Dave Granteed, two of the department’s volunteer firefighters demonstrated the equipment used and allowed the boys to inspect the fire engines and taught them fire safety procedures. Tiger Cubs attending were Ryan Bonin, Roman Alder and Thomas Lynch. Barbara Stahley, Cubmaster of Pack 366, St. Monica’s Parish wishes to express a sincere thank you to everyone who assisted in helping with the Friday night supper of Dec. 9 for the homeless men of Mother Theresa’s Haven. A special thank you goes to Michael Buosante and to the parents from the pack who assisted in making the food, the baked goods and snack items. She also thanks Mr. Kaminski and Mr. Jackson and the Boy Scouts of West Wyoming Troop 366 for serving and helping with the cleanup.

WYOMING NEWS

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

St. Monica’s Cub Scouts get badges and pins

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 40

Sports

Team play gives PA McGrane title Stravinski earns MVP for Patriots By Matt Page

Dispatch Correspondent

One word graces the front of the Pittston Area warm-ups. Team. Coach Alan Kiesinger preaches teamwork everyday and the Patriots listen as they used quick ball movement and team defense to run away from Hanover Area 6747 in the first round of the 46th Annual Robert McGrane Basketball Tournament on Monday night at the CYC in WilkesBarre. The victory led PA into the championship game against Lake-Lehman on Wednesday night when they beat the Black Knights, 68-53, to win the McGrane title for the first time since 2002. Against Hanover, Pittston Area used a 21-3 second-quarter explosion to take a 32-12 halftime lead, one which they wouldn’t relinquish. Steve Stravinski poured in 26 points and grabbed eight rebounds to pace the Patriots while Jordan Houseman chipped in with 17 points, 11 rebounds and six assists. “Stravinski is a gym rat and he’s only going to become a better player,” said Kiesinger. “He took shot after shot after shot in the summer. He probably shot 500 to 600 shots a day.” After falling behind 7-3, the Patriots used an 8-2 run in the final three minutes of the quarter to take a11-9 lead going into the second quarter. Stravinski started the second quarter onslaught as he dropped in a fast break layup off of a silky behind the back pass from Houseman. Houseman then dropped in two of his own before setting up Shaun McDermott to make it 17-9. Stravinski made back-to-back baskets to push the lead to 21-9 before Hanover Area finally

PA's Steve Stravinski goes airborne on his way to score two against Hanover Area in the opening round of the McGrane Tournament on Monday night in Wilkes-Barre. Stravinski totaled 55 points in PHOTO BY BILL TARUTIS two games to earn MVP honors as the Patriots won the title.

snapped the 10-0 run with a made free throw. Stravinski answered right back with a rainbow jumper from the corner and Houseman took a nice feed from McDermott to push the lead to 25-10 with two minutes left in the half. Houseman then tossed a half court alleyoop to Stravinski who laid it in for two before hitting a three to extend the lead to 30-10. Michael Schwab then took a nice feed from Mason Gross for two before the Hawkeyes scored as time ran out to cut its deficit to 32-12 at the half. In the third quarter, McDermott and Chris Kovaleski both dropped in layups but Hanover Area responded with four points of their own. Stravinski scored off a no-look pass from Houseman but the Hawkeyes fought back with a made free throw and a three-ball to cut the lead to 38-20. After Stravinski drew an offensive foul, McDermott hit a big three to bump the lead to 41-20. Hanover Area went on a 12-6 run to cut the lead to 47-32 at the end of the third quarter, and started the final quarter with a basket, but McDermott answered right back with a midrange jumper to stop the spurt. After a HA free throw, Pittston Area rattled off seven straight on a Houseman three and layup and a Steve Sklanka fast break lay-in. The Hawkeyes answered back with a 7-2 run of their own cutting the lead to 58-42, but it wouldn’t be enough as Stravinski added four more, Houseman dropped in an easy two and Kovaleski added a free throw to end the game. McDermott added 11 points for the Patriots. In the final, Lake Lehman would prove to be a tougher test for the Patriots, but the Black Knights couldn’t stop Stravinski as he went off for 29 points and See STRAVINSKI, Page 44

Lady Patriots roll over Mt. View PA played for Holiday Hoops title against Holy Redeemer Editor’s Note: Due to early holiday deadlines, the Pittston Area Holiday Tournament results between Pittston Area and Holy Redeemer, and Wyoming Area and Mt. View will not appear in today’s issue. Check next week for a full report on the game. By Josh Horton

Dispatch Correspondent

Above, Pittston Area's Allie Barber skies toward the basket in a win over Mountain View in the opening round of the PIttston Area Holiday Hoops Tournament. Below left, Grace O'Neill snaps a pass to a teammate, and bleow right, Mia Hopkins takes a shot over a Mt. View defender.

PHOTOS BY BILL TARUTIS

WA 35, Holy Redeemer 68

The Lady Patriots were not the only team in the Pittston Area Holiday Tournament from the Dispatch coverage area. But unfortunately for Wyoming Area, they opened the tourney against Holy Redeemer, and the Lady Royals offense was just too much to handle for the Lady Warriors in a 68-35 loss on TuesSee LADY WARRIORS, Page 45

PAGE 41

Pittston Area defended their home court in blowout fashion on Tuesday night, using a total team effort on both offense and defense to defeat Mountain View, 68-25, in the opening round of the annual Pittston Area Holiday Tournament at Thomas R. Kelly Gymnasium in Yatesville. The Lady Patriots came out of the gate running all cylinders and never looked back. Pittston Area (7-0) opened the game with a 6-0 run. Mountain View would hit a three-pointer to cut the lead to 6-3, but the Lady Patriots responded with 12 unanswered points before eventually taking a 23-7 lead into the second quarter. Senior guard Grace O’Neil led all scorers in the first quarter with ten points including a threepointer from way beyond the arc. Mountain View held Patriots star junior Mia Hopkins to just five points in the opening quarter, as she was held to 2-for-4 from the field and 1-for-2 from the free throw stripe. The Pittston Area lead swelled to 42-11 in the second quarter, as freshman Liz Waleski caught fire midway through the period and was a perfect 4-for-4 from the field. O’Neil chipped in with five more, sophomore Brooke Balchune added four, and Hopkins and Charley Zanta capped the scoring with a bucket each. Mountain View came out of the half with a chip on their shoulder and went on a 7-0 run to open the quarter. However, the Lady Eagles needed much more than seven unanswered points to get back into the game. Hopkins heated up in the third and scored seven of the Lady Patriots 10

points in the quarter. Cales Owens scored her first two points of the game, and Zanta added a free throw. “We only scored seven points in the first four minutes or so,” Pittston Area Head Coach Kathy Healey said. “We told them, ‘Come on, let’s go,’ because you never know. I have been down by a lot before and have come back. Teams always have a punch at the end and we wanted to work harder and play more aggressive.” With the game in control, Healey went to the bench for much of the fourth quarter. Sophomore Jacqueline Rabender got into the game and scored her first points in the final stanza. Hopkins hit a long threepointer and hit both of her free throws. Allie Barber added three more points to her total for the game, and Zanta and Waleski chipped in with a bucket each to put the nail in the coffin as the Lady Patriots finished strong with a 16-4 run over the last eight minutes. Pittston Area played stellar defense as they used a suffocating zone to hold Mountain View to below 30 points. Hopkins led the Patriots with 19 points. She also contributed defensively with four blocks and three steals. O’Neill added 15 points and was a real threat from the beyond the arc, and Waleski contributed with 12 points, and an impressive 6-for-7 from the field. “It was a good win, everybody played and a lot of different people scored,” Coach Healy said. “We came out and we trapped and went to the basket.”

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

G I R L S ’ VA R S I T Y B A S K E T B A L L

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

T H E 2 0 11 S P O R T S Y E A R I N R E V I E W

A look back at 2011 Patriots, Warriors, Blue Devils and others provide us with thrills, chills and many memories By Rick Notari

Dispatch Staff

The 2011 sports season was full of victories, championships, individual accomplishments and amazing performances by dedicated athletes in the Greater Pittston area. Here is a month-by-month look back at some of the events at had us cheering – and sometimes crying – as the results, both good and bad, played out. January

Pittston Area named Mike Barrett as its new football coach. Barrett, a Valley View grad and former VV and Mid Valley assistant coach, brings enthusiasm to a program which desperately needed a turn in direction. Wyoming Area lineman Julian Campenni is selected to play in the Big 33 Game. Pittston Area routs Wyoming Area in a nonleague Wrestling match, 67-6. PA wrestler Michael Domarasky joined the 100-win club, becoming the14th Patriot grappler to achieve the milestone. The Old Forge girls’ basketball team upsets archrival Riverside, 51-41, to open 2011. February

Pittston Area defeated Wyoming Area, 66-54, in the annual Eugene R. DeMinico II Memorial Basketball Game as the season ends for both teams without a playoff appearance. Wyoming Area gets a win in the girls’ basketball game, 56-48 as the senior class combines for 40 of the team’s points. Old Forge senior Kiel Eigen walks in front of a packed house on Senior Parents Night. Bound to a wheelchair since breaking his neck in a freshman football game as an eighth grader, Eigen takes his first public steps before the Blue Devils game with rival Holy Cross. Wyoming Area wins the Blue and Gold Skate with a 5-3 upset of Pittston Area behind the play of Kody Nowicki. Pittston Area knocks off four-time champ Wyoming Area to claim the WVC Division III girls’ swimming title. The Patriots win the WVC Division I wrestling crown with a win over Coughlin. Justin Wilk clinches the title with a pin in the final bout.

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March

District 2 wrestling champions Jason Laboranti and Michael Domarasky both won medals at the PIAA NE Regional Tournament in Bethlehem. Laboranti won a silver medal at 215 pounds, and Domarasky won bronze at 112 pounds. Both efforts

qualified the duo for the PIAA Class 3A Championships in Hershey. Both the Old Forge boys’ and girls’ basketball teams won state playoff games to open the PIAA tournament. The boys – who won their fifth straight D2 Class 1A crown along the way – defeated Faith Christian The girls’, the D2 runner up, traveled to Harrisburg and won a play-in game against Harrisburg Christian who were 20-5 coming into the game. Wyoming Area’s Andy Schutz won his second consecutive D2 Class 2A Wrestling title with win in the 125-pound title. April

Pittston Area defeated Wyoming Area 7-2 in the annual Ashby Game behind the hitting of catcher Ron Musto who delivered a no-out, bases-clearing double to put the Patriots in command. Musto went on to earn the Ashby MVP in a game played at PNC Field. The Lady Warriors turned the tables on the softball diamond, beating PA, 11-2, behind a 16-hit attack. Old Forge steals nine bases – including home – in an 8-2 win over arch-rival Riverside on the baseball diamond. Freshman Sara Ruby scored two goals to lead PA to a 3-2 win over Wyoming Area to give the Lady Patriots their first victory of the season. The Old Forge baseball team gives first-year coach Tony DiMattia his first career victory in a 5-4 win over Holy Cross. DiMattia was the captain of the Blue Devils 1992 PIAA Class 2A State Championship team. Pittston Area sophomore Mia Hopkins is named WVC CO-Player of the Year after scoring 18.8 points per game. PA wrestlers Jamie Scarantino and Kevin Wesolowski are named All-American by the NHSCA after they placed at the National Wrestling Championships in Virginia Beach, VA. Lady Patriots swimmer Samantha Scialpi is named to the WVC South Coaches First-Team. She was the only swimmer selected to the team from the PA WVC Division III championship squad. Wyoming Area tennis player Davide Fanelli led the Warriors to a win over rival Pittston Area to open the boys’ tennis season. Fanelli beat Jeremy Homschek, 6-2, 6-7, 6-3. Jenkins Twp. resident and Scranton Prep swimmer Maria Telincho won two D2 Class 2A gold medals as part of the Classics 200 Free Relady and 200 Medley Relay teams. May

Pittston Area’s Dave McLean won a D2 gold

VA R S I T Y F O O T B A L L

Gridiron schedules announced for ‘12 Patriots, Warriors, Blue Devils slates feature some new opponents By Rick Notari

Dispatch Staff

The 2012 Wyoming Valley Conference and Lackawanna Football Conference schedules were released last week with some interesting matchups set up for Pittston Area, Wyoming Area and Old Forge. The Patriots open the season on the road against Abington Heights on a Saturday afternoon in Clarks Summit. The Warriors will host Scranton Prep on a Friday night in Week 1 in Exeter. Both games featured teams that usually battled in scrimmages after the first week of practice. The Blue Devils open the season with a road game against Lake-Lehman in the Back Mountain. Week 2 also sets up two tough games for the Greater Pittston teams as Pittston Area travels to Scranton and Wyoming Area travels to Mid Valley. The Patriots beat Scranton this past season, and the Warriors knocked off the Spartans in the opening round of the District 2 Class 2A playoff in 2011. Pittston Area’s schedule doesn’t get any easier with road games at Dallas, at Coughlin, and at Valley West. The Patriots will host Crestwood, Tunkhannock, Hazleton, Berwick, and Cross-River Rival Wyoming Area. The Warriors home schedule also features games against Hanover, Meyers, GAR, and Northwest. WA will also be on the road against Lake-Lehman, Nanticoke, Holy Redeemer, and Pittston Area. Old Forge’s schedule is high-

lighted by back-to-back non-divisional games against D2 Class 1A rivals Dunmore and Riverside in Weeks 4 and 5. The Blue Devils will host the Bucks, Holy Redeemer, Montrose, Carbondale and Holy Cross. They will also travel to Taylor to take on the Vikings, and to Meyers, Lackawanna Trail, and Susquehanna. Here are the complete schedules Pittston Area Patriots

Week 1 ...at Abington Heights Week 2..................at Scranton Week 3...........CRESTWOOD Week 4 ....TUNKHANNOCK Week 5 ..............HAZLETON Week 6......................at Dallas Week 7.................at Coughlin Week 8..................BERWICK Week 9.............at Valley West Week 10..WYOMING AREA Wyoming Area Warriors

Week 1....SCRANTON PREP Week 2..............at Mid Valley Week 3 .........at Lake-Lehman Week 4 ................HANOVER Week 5 ...............at Nanticoke Week 6 ......at Holy Redeemer Week 7 ...................MEYERS Week 8 ...........................GAR Week 9 ...........NORTHWEST Week 10 .........at Pittston Area Old Forge Blue Devils

Week 1..........at Lake-Lehman Week 2 ............at WB-Meyers Week 3 ..HOLY REDEEMER Week 4 ...............DUNMORE Week 5.................at Riverside Week 6..............MONTROSE Week 7 ........................at Trail Week 8 ........CARBONDALE Week 9 ...........HOLY CROSS Week 10 .........at Susquehanna

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Confident Warriors get solid holiday win Wyoming Area smashes Blue Ridge, 46-15 By Josh Horton

Dispatch Correspondent

Pictured above, defending District 2 champion Andy Schutz of Wyoming Area is in control of his match with Blue Ridge's Ed Gorick. Below, WA's Carmen Mauriello is on top of his opponent in last Thursday's bout with Blue Ridge. PHOTOS BY TONY CALLAIO

This week’s schedule

Wednesday PA at Crestwood WA v. Hanover Friday-Saturday WVC Meet at Lake-Lehman

PAGE 43

Wyoming Area first-year head coach Steve Mytych had a good feeling going into their nonleague match with Blue Ridge the night before Christmas Eve. And the Warriors gave their mentor an early present with a 46-15 win over Lackawanna League stalwart Blue Ridge in Exeter. “I kind of knew we were going to win,” Mytych said. “But, the kids still wrestled really hard and we did very well.” The Warriors sent one of their best wrestlers out to the mat to start the match in Nick O’Brien. The three-sport star pinned Blue Ridge’s Addison Parsons just 55 seconds into the match. Neither Blue Ridge, nor Wyoming Area produced a wrestler at170 lbs. After the no contest, Jude Polit-Moran was awarded the win in the182 lbs. weight class after Blue Ridge forfeited. Shaun Whiting and Corey Popovich followed in O’Brien’s footsteps with pins of their own giving Wyoming Area a big lead in the match. In the195 lbs. weight class, Whiting pinned Nick Lloyd at the 3:36 mark of the match and Popovich pinned Nick Schell at the 1:21 mark of the 220 lbs. weight class. The Warriors allowed their first points of the match when they were forced to forfeit in the heavyweight division. After the Warriors dominated from 160 lbs. through 200 lbs. they went to the lower weights. Both teams failed to produce a grappler at 106 and Nick Hromek won by forfeit in the 113 lbs. weight class. The Warriors suffered their second loss of the night when Dakota Gwjewski defeated Eric Filipiak 12-7 in the 120 lbs. match. The Warriors then also dropped the 126 lbs. match when Zack Edwards defeated Carmen Mauriello 5-0. Andy Schutz got the Warriors back on the winning track with a 12-1 decision over former District 2 champion Dalton Church. “He didn’t pin him, but he blew him out,” Mytych said. “The kid

was a really good wrestler and it is a great win for Andy. The win is especially good, because when you beat a kid who was a district champion it looks really good come time for seeding at the District Tournament. Major decisions definitely help the team too.” Wyoming Area’s Shaun O’Malley then earned a 4-1 decision over Louis Esposito in the 138 lbs. match. Nick Heck then dropped a close 6-3 decision to former District 2 champion Tom Maby in the 145 lbs. division. “We bumped Nick up two weights, because we wanted him to wrestle Maby,” Mytych said. “I was pretty happy with how he wrestled. Maby was a terrific wrestler and Nick hung in there and it was a great match. There was a little controversy with some calls in the match, but overall it was a good match and Maby is a tough kid.” The Warriors finished the match just like they started it. Nick Mazzone pinned Cooper Quick at the 5:00 mark of the 152 lbs. weight class. One thing Mytych feels he has accomplished in his young coaching career at Wyoming Area is, they are no longer getting pinned as much as they use to. “The one thing with Wyoming Area wrestling in the past, is they used to get pinned a lot. So far this season we haven’t been getting pinned much. Even in this match, we weren’t pinned at all. That is a huge deal in wrestling. The more times we get pinned, the more points we lose. Overall, the kids have bought into the system and I think we are on the right track.” Wyoming Area competed in the Tunkhannock Kiwanis Christmas Tournament, which was held this past Thursday and Friday. Check back next week for a full report on the Warriors.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

VA R S I T Y W R E S T L I N G

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 44

Stravinski earns McGrane MVP with 55 in two games Continued from Page 40

grabbed nine boards to lead Pittston Area (7-1) to the title and earn the tournament MVP. “It felt good, every time I got the ball I was feeling good,” said Stravinski of his performance and the MVP award. “It’s unbelievable.” Lake Lehman jumped on the Patriots by coming out to a quick 5-0 lead, but PA answered right back when Houseman scored on back-to-back transition buckets to cut the lead to 5-4. After a LL basket, Stravinski took a nice dish from Gross for two and Houseman had a tip-in to put the Patriots ahead 8-7. Lake Lehman answered right back with a two to regain the lead but Stravinski once again dropped in an easy bucket off of a Gross pass. LL hit two free throws to take an 11-10 lead but Stravinski buried back-to-back three pointers to end the quarter, giving the Patriots a 16-11 lead. The Black Knights went on an 8-1run to open the second quarter to take a 19-17 lead. However, a Stravinski three-ball gave the Patriots the lead again and this time, they would not give it up. A Sklanka midrange jumper followed by two McDermott buckets extended the PA lead to 26-19. Both teams hit three free throws as they went into the half with PA on top 29-22. Lake Lehman went on a 5-2 run to start the third quarter, cutting the lead to four points, but the Patriots slammed the door shut as they answered back on a Sklanka lay-in followed by seven consecutive points by Stravinski and a lay-in by McDermott. The 11-0 run pushed the lead to 42-27. The teams would exchange baskets before McDermott hit two threes and Sklanka sank two free throws to end the quarter on an 8-0 run giving the Patriots a 52-31 lead. The Black Knights opened the fourth quarter with a 9-2 run cutting the lead to14, but two Houseman free throws and a Stravinski three pushed the lead back to 19. LL returned with a 9-3 run to cut the lead once again, this time to 12. But the Patriots iced the game after McDermott hit a three followed by a Sklanka two and a Gross free throw to push its lead to 68-53 win. “It means a lot. We haven’t

done it since ’02,” said Kiesinger. “It was one of our goals coming into this season. We wanted to win the Marseco Tournament at Old Forge, we wanted to win this tournament, and now we want to take a shot at the league.” McDermott, who scored 16 in the title tilt, and Houseman, who added eight points, both made the all-tournament team. Sklanka added12 points against LL for the Patriots. OF 31, Dallas 49

Two nights after limiting Wyoming Area to just 19 points, Old Forge experienced some offensive struggles of its own in a 49-31 loss to Dallas in the championship game of the Angelo Schifano Memorial Holiday Hoops Tournament at Wyoming Area on Wednesday night in Exeter. The Blue Devils shot just 22 percent (11-for-50) from the floor and matched that number with 22 turnovers in going eight-plus minutes between the first and second quarters without a point as the Mountaineers went on a 13-0 run to take command with a 15-5 lead. Dallas extended its advantage to 21-7 at halftime as Old Forge managed just a Colin Carey field goal at the 3:12 mark of the second quarter. The Blue Devils were 1-for-5 from the field in the second quarter and turned the ball over nine times. Old Forge (4-3) got within nine, 25-16, in the third quarter as Brian Tomasetti and Jake Manetti scored on back-to-back buckets right before the four-minute mark. But Dallas extended its lead to 32-17 heading into the final stanza as the Blue Devils shot just 2-for-10 from the free throw line, including missing the front end of three 1-and-1 opportunities. The Blue Devils made one last charge, opening the fourth quarter with a 10-2 run as J Argonish scored two straight field goals, and Tomasetti scored on an offensive rebound to get Old Forge within 34-27 with 4:58 left in the game. But again Dallas answered with a game-ending 15-4 run to earn the tournament crown. Manetti finished with a teamhigh nine points for the Blue DevSee BLUE DEVILS, Page 48

Above, Pittston Area's Chris Kovaleski makes a move Hanover Area's Martin Steve in the opening round of the McGrane Tournament at the Wilkes-Barre CYC. Below, Patriots guard Michael Schwab defends during the Patriots victory over the Hawkeyes.

PHOTOS BY BILL TARUTIS

Continued from Page 41

WA's Ashlee Blannett looks to pass out of the corner as Holy Redeemer's Shaina Dougherty applies pressure.

day night. Despite playing from behind the entire game, Serra Degnan refused to back down. The junior was as tough as nails and was in on every play causing many turnovers. Her aggression carried over on offense as she scored 15 points. She drove the lane possession after possession and her effort earned her 16 free throws, connecting on seven of the 16. Sophomore guard Nicole Turner also played well for the Lady Warriors, using her speed to make things happen on defense while offensively scoring seven points. Abby Thornton added six points, while Ashlee Blannett chipping in with four. Felicia Turner had two points and Nicole Dileo capped the Warriors scoring with one point. The Royals had four players in double digits. Freshman Alana Wilson led Holy Redeemer with 14 points. Alexis Lewis, Julia Wignot, Paige Makowski each had ten points in the Holy Redeemer victory. PA 45, Dallas 34

WA's Serra Degnan goes in for a layup against Holy Redeemer in the opening round of the PA Holiday Tourney.

WA's Sally DeLuca shoots a short jumper against Holy Redeemer. PHOTOS BY BILL TARUTIS

Pittston Area used a strong effort on the offensive and defensive ends in the first and fourth quarters as they held off Dallas, 45-34, in a non-league affair last Thursday night at the Thomas R. Kelly Gymnasium in Yatesville. The Lady Patriots used a 27-12 advantage during the first and last eight minutes of action to determine the outcome. Mia Hopkins led all scorers with 21 points – her fourth 20plus point game of the season. The junior canned nine field goals and three free throws. Grace O’Neill added seven points for undefeated Pittston Area, and freshmen Liz Waleski and Allie Barber combined to score 11 points. OF 29, Valley View 42

OF 53, Carbondale 29

Old Forge bounced back with a 53-29 victory over Carbondale in the consolation game of the Lou Camoni Memorial Tournament at Valley View on Wednesday night in Archbald. After scoring just seven points in the first 16 minutes of action on Monday, the Blue Devils limited the Chargerettes to just seven points in the first half as they ran out to a 29-7 lead at intermission. Lauren Carey and Vicki Lee split 14 points to lead Old Forge (6-2). Morgan Malia, Brittany Souryavong and Tori Tansley added six points each for the Blue Devils. OF 48, Trail 28

Old Forge raced out to a 20-10 first-quarter lead and never looked back in a 48-28 nonleague victory over Lackawanna Trail last Thursday night in the Elio Ghigiarelli Gymnasium. The Blue Devils extended their lead to 31-19 at the half before limiting the Lady Lions to just one point in the third quarter as they entered the final stanza with a 47-20 advantage. Lauren Carey led Old Forge (5-1, 1-0) with 11 points, and Taylor Nemetz checked in with nine. Morgan Malia and Vicky Lee added seven points each for the Blue Devils. This week’s schedule

Monday OF v. Riverside Tuesday PA at Berwick WA v. Redeemer Thursday PA at Crestwood WA at Tunkhannock OF at Western Wayne

PAGE 45

Pittston Area's Liz Waleski, left, knocks the ball out of the hands of Mountain View's Paige Seymour.

Old Forge managed just seven first-half points in a 42-29 loss to Valley View in the opening round of the Lou Camoni Memorial Tournament on Monday at Valley View HS in Archbald. The Blue Devils fought through a cold start, trailing just 7-4 after the first quarter. But the Cougars used a 12-3 spurt in the second quarter to take command with a 19-7 lead at the break.

Valley View extended its lead to 34-18 entering the fourth quarter before the Blue Devils outscored their hosts, 11-8, in the final stanza. Rhyan Barnic led Old Forge (5-2) with a career-high 12 points, including three threepointers. Lauren Carey added eight points for the Blue Devils, and Morgan Malia chipped in with four.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

LADY WARRIORS

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

The year in review - a look back at 2011

Continued from Page 42

tion, winning many District 31 and Section 5 tournaments. Don Crossin and Bill Briggs win 65th Allan title eight days after tournament begins due to poor weather conditions.

medal in the Class 3A 1600m run. Teammate Ron D’Eliseo won a silver medal in the 300m Hurdles and Cody Rydzy won a bronze medal in the Long Jump. Wyoming Area’s Sara Radzwilka also won D2 gold with a first-place finish in the Class 3A 800m race. Teammate Michelle Golden won a silver medal in the 3200m race. WA freshman Ryan Flynn won Junior High District 2 gold in the Pole Vault competition. PA eight-grader Olivia Giambra won a gold medal in the Long Jump. Holy Redeemer’s Marissa Durako won two D2 gold medals in the Class 2A 1600m and 3200m distance races. Pittston Area’s Chuck Bressler tosses a five-inning no-hitter in win over Coughlin. The Patriots 1600m relay team won a gold medal at the Jordan Relays. The team of Brandon Hampton, Tyler Roman, Dave McLean and Cody Rydzy posted a time of 3:46.79.

August

June

The Wyoming Area junior high softball team captured the WVC Division II title. Old Forge won its fifth straight D2 Class 1A Baseball title with an 8-3 win over Lackawanna Trail at PNC Field in Moosic. The Blue Devils softball team also won the district title, claiming its fourth consecutive crown in an improbable run through the Class 1A field, including a 7-3, eight-inning victory over topseeded Blue Ridge. Marissa Durako of Holy Redeemer finishes seventh at the PIAA Class 2A event. Durako is a Laflin resident. Old Forge grad and Villanova flame thrower Kyle McMyne is selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the fourth round of the MLB Amateur Baseball Draft.

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July

The Plains American Legion team won the Region 5 Tournament with contributions from the host of Pittston Area players, including Jordan Bone, Josh Savakinas, James Casetllino, and RJ Emmett. The Greater Wyoming Area baseball and softball all-star teams dominate tournament ac-

Above, Old Forge senior Kiel Eigen took his first public steps since breaking his neck as an eighthgrader playing in a freshman football game. Below left, PA's Michelle Fernando led the Lady Patriots to a WVC title. Below right, Ryan Carey makes a catch for Wyoming Area.

Former Pittston Area harriers Matt Flynn and Deedra Porfirio win the Tomato Festival 5K run. Old Forge golfer Corey Palma and teammate J Argonish make clutch putts on the final two holes to give the Blue Devils a 6-3 win over arch-rival Riverside on the links. Palma also wins Top Senior honors at the annual Jackman Memorial Tournament. Lou Ciampi Jr., George Aldrich and Joe Pizano were elected into the Luzerne County Hall of Fame. George Miller was awarded with the Sam Falcone Award at the HOF ceremonies. Old Forge softball player Andi Alsalahat was selected to the PSCA All-State team. The Greater Wyoming Area Senior Little League team won the Pennsylvania State Championship and finished second at the LL Eastern Regional in New Jersey. Len Coleman won his 11th Emanon Club Title. Old Forge grad Kyle McMyne earns first professional victory with five inning stint in Billings’ 1-0 win over Great Falls. The GWA 9-10 softball team won the PA state title and finished the regional tournament with just one loss. The GWA junior softball team placed third at the state tournament. Old Forge grad Brandon Gatto set a Guinness World Record for jumping jacks in a minute when he did 104 at Veterans Memorial Stadium. September

Harding resident Stephanie Jallen is selected to the United States Paralympic Ski team. The Wyoming Area student is one of just seven women selected to the squad. PA golfer Brandon Matthews shoots 4-under 31 at Fox Hill in loss to Holy Redeemer. The senior also wins his record fourth Tryba Preseason Golf TournaSee 2011, Page 47

WA girls hoop parents set monthly meeting WAGBPA meeting January 10

Sandlot Baseball Academy

The Wyoming Area Girls Basketball Parents Association will be having its monthly meeting on Jan. 10th at the High School in Room #133 at 7 p.m. All parents of girls playing basketball in grades 7th thru 12th are encouraged to attend.

The Sandlot Baseball Academy High School Baseball Camp will begin Sunday, January 29, and run for the next six Sundays until March 4. The camp will be held at 719 Capouse Ave., Scranton from 12-2 p.m. and feature pitching, hitting and positional breakdowns. Open to students in grades 9-12, the camp will feature instruction from Pittston Area Head Coach Paul Zaffuto and Old Forge Head Coach Tony DiMattia. Other instructors on staff include, Old Forge pitching coach Gary DiMattia, Abington Heights asst. coach Chris Davis, Lackawanna College pitching coach Brian Minich, Dunmore asst. coach Mike Hallinan, and Scranton Miners Head Coach Mike Guy. The cost of the camp is $150. Contact Chris Davis at 499-2717 or CDD027@aol.com to register or for more information.

WABBPA meeting Wednesday

The Wyoming Area Boys’ Basketball Parents will meet on Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the high school gym lobby. Plans for the balance of the season will be discussed. All parents are encouraged to attend. For more info, contact Tracey Carey at 313-0837. Pittston Senior Center forming Bowling League

The 2012 Pittston Senior Center Bowling League is now forming. This league will run for 14 weeks and begin on Friday, January 20. Bowling will be held at Modern Lanes in Exeter and begin at 1:15 p.m.. If you would like to join this league or would like further information please contact Connie Andrews at 655-5561. This is a fun league and open to anyone 60 years of age or older whether you are an experienced bowler or have not bowled in years. Following the 14 weeks a Bowling Banquet will be held. A special meeting and registration will be held on Friday, January 13 at 1 p.m.

2011 Continued from Page 46

The Pittston Area Varsity Cheerleaders have won a bid to the National High School Cheer Championship in Orlando, FL Please help them get there by taking part in "A Night At the Races" on Saturday, January 21, at 6 p.m. at the Jenkins Twp. Fire Hall. The event is “All you can Eat” including, soup, salad, pasta, meatballs, chicken strips, potatoes, vegetable, deserts, and much more. Must be 21 to attend.

lost for the first time ever to archrival Riverside, 3-2, at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Seniors J Argonish, Ian Nemetz and Adam Barsigian missed the first half of the match while they traveled home from a golf match in Mt. Cobb. Junior Matt Mancuso held down the fort before himself, leaving for the Blue Devils football game at GAR, immediately after the soccer match. Gabby Vaxmonsky scored a hat trick as the Lady Patriots field hockey team gets a big 7-0 win over Montrose in the WVC opener. Pittston Area gives first-year coach Mike Barrett a victory in his home debut with a win over Scranton. The Patriots started the season 2-0 under Barrett. In the opening week victory over Tunkhannock, junior Jordan Houseman returned two punts and an interception for touchdowns. Marissa Durako of Holy Redeemer wins the Robbins Memorial Invitational. The Laflin resident won the event in a time

WPLL Coach letters due

Prospective managers or assistant coach for the West Pittston Little League during the 2012 season must submit a Letter of Intent by Dec. 31. This includes current coaches. There will be open positions from T-ball through Boys Minor League. All letters should specify which level you are interested in coaching, T-ball, Coach-Pitch, or Boys Minor League. Please note that submittal of a letter does not guarantee a managerial or assistant coaching position in the West Pittston Little League. Letters must be postmarked no later than Dec. 31 to: Curt Hannon, 1573 Mt. Zion Rd., Harding, 18643 Warrior Legacy

The Wyoming Area Football Alumni Association is working on a project to collect old Warrior football programs, Sunday Dispatch Goalpost editions, and other printed memorabilia for posting on the internet. The Warrior Legacy Project can be viewed at www.wyomingareafootball.org For each year, the following sections of the football program can be viewed from the web site: program cover, senior pictures, team picture, scores of games. Thus far, with the exception of 1981 and

of 19:52 as she outlasted defending PIAA champ Tori Gerlach of Pennridge, and defending D2 champ Regan Rome of Dallas. October

Holy Redeemer’s Marissa Durako of Laflin captured the District 2 Class 2A Cross Country title. She also finished second at the WVC Coaches Meet. Defending champion Brandon Matthews of Pittston Area finishes tied for seventh at the PIAA state championships. Matthews won the Regional title after finishing fifth at the D2 championships to advance to the state tourney. Earlier in the month, Matthews sets the Fox Hill CC course record with an 8under 63 during the WVC Team Playoffs. Pittston Area boys’ soccer team advances to the District 2 playoffs but are eliminated in the first round by D4 representative Williamsport. The Wyoming Area Field Hockey team wins its first-round District 2 matchup with rival

1985, all programs since 1980 have been posted. Programs and printed materials from 1966 to 1979 are needed. Pictures of cheerleaders and coaches are also being captured and will be posted at a later date. Anyone who has a 1981 or 1985 Warrior football program, or programs printed from 1966 to 1979, is asked to contact Nick Perugini at nperugini@aol.com. Materials will be scanned and returned promptly to the owner. Gynmastics Signups

Shooting Starz Gymnastics is accepting enrollment for 2012 session dates. Registration began on Dec.12. The dates for 2012 are Jan. 2-Feb. 25, Feb. 27-April 14, April 23June 11, June 25-Aug. 18, Aug. 27-Oct. 15, Oct. 29-Dec. 22. For more information, contact Joelle Rose at 822-1212. The gymnastics school is located on 250 Johnson St., Wilkes-Barre. Rock Solid AAU Tryouts

Rock Solid AAU Basketball will conduct try-outs for the Spring 2012 Travel Basketball Season on Sunday, Jan. 8 and Sunday, Jan. 15. The try-outs will be for girls and boys 5th to 10th grade. Cost is $10 per player. For more information contact Doug Miller at (570) 696-2769 or email TheRockRecCenter@bmha.org.

Pittston Area, 4-0, as Serra Degnan records a hat-trick for the Lady Warriors. The Pittston Area girls’ volleyball team ended the 2011 campaign without a victory, extending its losing streak to 31 games, dating back to 2009. The Patriots soccer team routed Wyoming Area, 10-3, behind the scoring of Pietro Colella and Jordan Consagra. The dynamic duo combined for five goals and five assists in the victory. The now famous “Dirty Dozen” game has arch-rival Riverside beating Old Forge, 15-14, with a two-point conversion in the final minute of action. It is discovered after the game that the Vikings had 12 men on the field on the game’s deciding play. The game is the most highly contested since the series renewal in 2000. Wyoming Area golfer Nick Rydzewski finishes fourth at the WVC Pre-District 2 event at Fox Hill CC with a 7-over 77. November

Old Forge goes distance with eventual state-runner up Southern Columbia in a 45-34 loss to Tigers in first round of PIAA Class1A playoffs. The Blue Devils led 34-31 with less than 11 minutes remaining before succumbing to the SCA big-play ground attack. Quarterback Colin Carey throws for a school record 329 yards to go with four touchdowns in the loss. PA outlasts WA in second annual Moose Pizza Bowl. Blue Devils win D2 title with 47-6 victory over arch-rival Riverside. Nick O’Brien rushes for 321 yards in 53-44 loss to GAR in D2 Class 2A title game. O’Brien accounted for 354 yards of offense the week before in a victory over Mid Valley in the opening round of the district playoffs. Duryea Wildcats ‘B’ team wins WVWYFCC Super Bowl, 20-0, over Kingston. The Wildcats did not surrender a point all season. See 2011, Page 50

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ment. Catherine Lombardo, Pittston Area Cross Country runner, sets the PA course record with a time of 19:16 in a WVC cluster against Valley West, Berwick and Northwest. Wyoming Area soccer player Nate Brague records back-toback hat tricks in victories over MMI Prep and GAR. In first game back since the Flood of 2011 forced many out of their homes along the Susquehanna River on the West Side, Wyoming Area beats Lake-Lehman, 42-10. Nick O’Brien rushed for 218 yards and four touchdowns in the victory. It was the Warriors first game in two weeks after they had to cancel its Week 2 matchup with West Scranton. With four players pulling double-duty on a sports-filled Monday in Old Forge, the Blue Devils

PA Cheer Night at the Races

Cost is $10 cost for a horse and $5 at the door.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

SPORTS BRIEFS

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 48

Blue Devils, WA struggle offensively in tourney losses Continued from Page 44

the deficit to 24-13 entering the final stanza. Old Forge extended its lead in the final stanza with a 23-6 run behind seven points from Colin Carey, five from Tomasetti and four from Argust. Tomasetti finished the night with a career-high 19 points for the Blue Devils. He also added 10 rebounds and four steals. Carey notched nine points for Old Forge, and Argust added seven points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals. Jake Manetti chipped in with six points, five assists, four rebounds and three steals. Chupka’s five points were a team-high for the Warriors. He also added five rebounds before suffering his injury. WA second-leading scorer Lou Vullo was limited to just three points.

ils, and Tomasetti checked in with eight points and 11 rebounds. OF 47, Wyoming Area 19

A back and forth game during the first 10 minutes of action looked to set the stage for a thrilling rematch between Old Forge and Wyoming Area in the opening round of the Angelo Schifano Memorial Holiday Hoops Tournament. But a 14-minute interval during the second and third quarters proved otherwise as the Blue Devils dissected the Warriors, 4719, in Monday’s nightcap in Exeter. Old Forge (4-2) opened the game with an 8-3 run in the first quarter as junior guard Brian Tomasetti went perfect from the field for three buckets and six points. The Blue Devils led 6-0 before Bart Chupka scored for Wyoming Area (1-6) with 2:42 left in the opening period. Tomasetti scored on an offensive rebound before Lou Vullo made 1-of-2 free throws to get the Warriors within 8-3. Wyoming Area opened the second quarter with a bucket by Vullo and a three-point play by Chupka to knot the score at 8-8. Junior Mike Carey then drilled the only three-point basket of the game on an assist from Vullo to cap an 8-0 run and give the Warriors an 11-8 lead with 6:04 left in the second quarter. But the basket would be Wyoming Area’s last until there were five seconds left in the third quarter. Old Forge answered with a 6-0 spurt to end the first half as Dave Argust drilled two free throws, Tomasetti scored again on an offensive rebound, and Brenden Wahl drove past two WA defenders for a layup from the left side to put the Blue Devils in the lead 1411 at intermission. Chupka – who torched Old Forge for 30 points in the opening game of the Marseco Memorial looked to break the drought for the Warriors to open the half, but the junior center missed a layup and injured his right wrist on the ensuing scramble for the rebound, knocking him out of the game. Tomasetti then paced a10-0 run for the Blue Devils with five points of the next four minutes, and the Warriors were held scoreless until Matt Klus scored with five seconds left in the third to cut

WA 36, Northwest 47

Above, Wyoming Area's Lou Vullo is fouled in the second half of action against Northwest on Wednesday night in the consolation game of the annual Angelo Schifano Memorial Holiday Hoops Tournament. Below left, Old Forge's Jimmie Aversa fights with WA's EJ Driving Hawk (30) and Joe Adonizio for a loose ball during Monday's opening round game. Below right, WA's Jordan Zezza puts up a shot over a Northwest denfder.

PHOTOS BY TONY CALLAIO

Wyoming Area enjoyed a better night offensively than in its opening round game against Old Forge in the Angelo Schifano Memorial Holiday Hoops Tournament, but the Warriors were unable to overcome two long droughts without a bucket in a 4736 loss to Northwest in Wednesday night’s consolation game in Exeter. The Warriors fell behind from the start, trailing 6-0, but Lou Vullo sandwiched two buckets around a Jordan Zezza threepoint play to get the host school within 8-7 with 3:25 remaining in the first quarter. Northwest extended its lead to 16-9 at the end of the opening period, and to 20-10 with 4:03 left in the second quarter as Wyoming Area would go 8:30 without a field goal. But Dan Newhart keyed a 6-0 run to end the second quarter with four points off the bench to get WA within 20-16 at halftime. Vullo scored on a soft jumper from the baseline to cut the Warriors deficit to 20-18 to open the second half, but the Rangers reeled off a 12-5 run over the next six minutes to push its lead to a game-high nine points at 32-23 with 38 seconds left in the third quarter. WA did not go away. Mike Carey scored his only bucket of the game to end the See HOOPS, Page 50

Pittston Area sweeps Marseco Memorial titles

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

VA R S I T Y B A S K E T B A L L

The Pittston Area Lady Patriots won the 12th annual Anthony 'Badger' Marseco Memorial Girls' Tip-Off Tournament at Old Forge with a win over the Blue Devils.

PAGE 49

The Pittston Area Patriots won the 12th annual Anthony 'Badger' Marseco Memorial Boys' Tip-Off Tournament at Old Forge with a win over the Blue Devils.

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

2011 Continued from Page 47

Holy Redeemer’s Marissa Durako, a Laflin resident, finished 8th at the PIAA Class 2A Cross Country championships in Hershey. Patriots upset Warriors, 2421, in annual grid grudge match at Jake Sobeski Stadium in West Pittston. Pittston Area held WA’s Nick O’Brien out of the endzone for the only time all season. PA defensive tackle Anthony Houghton wins the Falcone MVP Trophy on the heels of his 13-tackle performance. Houghton also forced two fumbles and recorded a sack. December Pittston Area's Michael Domarasky, back, got the win over Wyoming Area's Steve Barush by technical fall in the 119-pound match when the Patriots and Warriors met on the mat.

Pittston Area wins Marseco Memorial titles in both boys’

and girls’ divisions with victories over host Old Forge. Steve Stravinski leads PA to 7-1 record with 20.4 ppg average including a two-game total of 55 as the Patriots win the McGrane Tournament for the first time since 2002 On the girls’ side, junior Mia Hopkins had the Lady Patriots off to a 7-0 start with her 19.4 points per game average. Old Forge wide receiver and defensive back Dave Argust is selected to the Pennsylvania Sports Writers Class 1A AllState Team as an offensive specialist. Argust caught a 91-yard TD in state playoffs, and returned a punt and an interception in come-from-behind win over Mid Valley.

HOOPS Continued from Page 48

third quarter, and the Warriors scored the next five points to get within 32-20 on two Vullo free throws with 5:41left in the game. Zezza scored on two 15-footers in the lane on the next two possessions, and Vullo followed with a bucket off of an offensive rebound as the teams traded baskets over the next 2:29 as Northwest held on 38-36 with 3:12 remaining. Wyoming Area got a defensive stop on the ensuing possession but couldn’t take the lead or tie after Zezza had his threepoint attempt from the left wing go in and out, and a Newhart 10footer off an offensive rebound did the same. From there, the Rangers ended the game on a 9-0 spurt to take the victory as the Warriors could not convert on the offensive end. Zezza led Wyoming Area (1-7) with 13 points and eight rebounds on the night. Vullo finished with 11 points and eight rebounds, and Newhart chipped in with seven points. This week’s schedule

PAGE 50

Tuesday PA v. Berwick WA at Holy Redeemer OF at Riverside Friday PA v. Crestwood WA v. Tunkhannock OF v. Western Wayne

Old Forge's David Argust goes inside to score as Wyoming Area's Joe Adonizio goes for the block.

Wyoming Area's Jeremy Zezza shoots a floater out of the outstretched reach of Old Forge's Colin Carey. PHOTOS BY TONY CALLAIO

December 28, 2011 Frank J. Avvisato, 66, former police chief of the borough of Old Forge, died December 28, 2011, at home with his children by his side. Born October 1, 1945, son of the late Phillip and Elizabeth Cesare Avvisato, he was a lifelong resident of Old Forge, and a 1963 graduate of Old Forge High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served at the Pentagon and aboard the USS Thuban. In 1969, he became a member of the Pennsylvania State Police where he served as Trooper and a Certified Scuba Diver until 1982. From 1982 until 1989, he was a member of the Region 8 Strike Force, where he later retired. Following retirement, he became Chief of Police of Old

Forge from 1989 to January 2005. As Chief, he was instrumental in creating the Lower Lackawanna/ Luzerne County Drug Task Force, sat on the Board of Directors of the Chiefs of Police Association, and introduced the DARE program into Old Forge High School. He was a member of the VFW Post 4954, Old Forge, and a parishioner of Prince of Peace Parish, Old Forge. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed riding his HarleyDavidson as a member of the Marauders MC, and loved his dogs, Meko and Diesel. The family wishes to thank Dr. Kenneth Sebastianelli and his nurse, Debbie Merrick, for their kindness, extraordinary care and support at his time of need. Surviving are a son, Frank J. Avvisato Jr., and wife Karen, Leesburg, VA; daughter, Kerri Ann Avvisato, Old Forge; brother,

December 27, 2011 Phillip Avvisato Jr., and wife Elaine, Duryea; two grandchildren, Anthony and Kaylie Avvisato; one nephew, Lt. Craig Carey, and wife Jackie; four nieces, Christine Sebastianelli and husband Dr. Ken, Kimberly McDonough and husband Jim, Kelly Dixon and husband Andy, and Kristin Taddei and husband Jay; and several aunts and cousins. The funeral with law enforcement honors was held Dec. 31 in the Ferri Funeral Home, Old Forge, with Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary of the Assumption Church at Prince of Peace Parish, Old Forge. Interment Old Forge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, 18411. To leave an online condolence, visit www.ferrifuneralhome.com.

Robert T. Griglock, Sr. December 24, 2011 Robert T. Griglock Sr., 69, of Wilmington, NC, died December 24, 2011, at home. Hewasoriginally from Port Blanchard, before retiring seven years ago to North Carolina with his wife, Peggy. He was born December 4,1942, in Pittston, son of the late Thomas and Anna Vernouski Griglock. Robert was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serving from 1960 to 1964, and toured in Europe. Prior to his retirement, he was a truck driver for USA Office Furniture. Robert was a graduate and senior class president of Jenkins Township High School, class of 1960. He was also a graduate of King’s

College with a degree in criminal justice. He was a member of the Jenkins Township American Legion Post 938, and also a member of the Port Rod and Gun Club. Robert, also known as "Pop Pop" by his grandchildren, enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing and outdoor gardening. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Judith; and brother, Thomas. Surviving are his wife, the former Peggy Zabriski; son, Robert Griglock Jr., and his wife, Patty, Wilmington, N.C.; daughters, Lori Robbins and her husband, Wayne, Wyoming, and Bonnie Melville, Wilmington, NC; step-daughter, Peggy Ashton, Ashley; and stepson, George Tomko, and his wife, Debbie, Forty Fort; grandchildren,

Robert Griglock III, Jennifer Kolessar, Brent Robbins, Ryan Robbins, Vanessa Robbins and Kayla Melville; step-granddaughters, Brittany Harper, Kristi Margalis and Jaimie Gribble; sisters, Rose Marie Hannon, Port Griffith, and Lauren Freedom, Dover; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral with military honors, conducted by the Jenkins Township American Legion, was held Dec. 30 in the Bednarski Funeral Home, Wyoming, with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. John the Evangelist Church, Pittston. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 712 S. Keyser Ave., Taylor, 18517.

John C. Schilling December 23, 2011 in the Pittston Area School District, and was employed in the construction industry. Also surviving are daughter, April Slabinski, Plains Township; sister, Lisa Donnora, and husband Robert, Port Griffith; brothers, Mark, Illinois; Luke

and fiancée Robin Samsell, Wilkes-Barre; fiancée, Barbara Deshazo; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by the Yeosock Funeral Home, Plains Township.

Miss Helen A. Olsakowski, 74, a guest at Pittston Manor, died Tuesday, December 27, 2011, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Township. Miss Olsakowski was born in Wilkes-Barre, daughter of the late Michael and Mary Dinoski Olsakowski. She was a graduate of the class of 1954, James M. Coughlin High School, WilkesBarre. She received her bachelor’s degree in education from College Misericordia, Dallas, and had been an elementary school teacher in New Jersey prior to her returning to the Wyoming Valley several years ago. She was a member of Ss. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic

Church, Plains Township. She was also preceded in death by a sister, Mary Ann Dziedzic, and brother Anthony Olsakowski. Surviving her are sister Irene Olsakowski, Redondo Beach, CA; and brother Michael G. Olsakowski, Plains Township; and numerous nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass was celebrated Dec. 31 in Ss. Peter and Paul Church, Plains Township. Private interment. Memorial donations may be made to Ss. Peter and Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains Township, 18705. Arrangements by the H. Merritt Hughes Funeral Home, WilkesBarre.

Irene Truskowski December 21, 2011 Irene (Kuna) Truskowski died in Angola, NY, on December 21, 2011. Born in Dupont on April 15, 1930, she was the daughter of the late William and Constance (Porzucek) Kuna. She attended Dupont schools and worked in the local garment factories until moving to New York where she worked as a seamstress in a hat factory until her retirement. Our sister, our aunt Irene was the most loving person in the world. She was one of a kind a one in a million; she had the biggest heart with the most caring touch, which she shared with so many.

She will be dearly missed by all. She was also preceded in death by her sisters Theresa, Maryann, brothers Edward, and William Jr. She is survived by husband Bernard, daughter Donna and son-in-law Mark Sudyn, grandson Joshua, also sisters Dolores, Bernadine, Eleanor and brother Chester all from Dupont, sistersin-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held on Dec. 24 from the John Kaczor Funeral Home, Hamburg, NY with Mass of Christian Burial at Most Precious Blood Church, Angola, NY. Entombment Lakeside Memorial Cemetery, Hamburg, NY.

Armenda Emery December 13, 2011 Armenda (Dutch) Emery, 80, of Pittston, died December 13, 2011, in Geisinger Hospice Unit, Wilkes-Barre. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Eddie Jones, and her second husband, Norman H. Emery. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on July 18, 1931, she was a daughter of the late Glenn and Reval

Smith Bush. She was employed as a waitress. Surviving her are three sons, Edward (Sonny) Jones and wife Susan; Ronald Jones, Newark, DE, and Thomas Jones and wife Mary, Maryland; sister, Cherry Van Horn, Michigan; 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. The funeral will be held at a later date in Detroit. Arrangements are by the Paul F. Leonard Funeral Home, Pittston.

PAGE 51

John C. Schilling, 50, of Pittston, died December 23, 2011, in Hospice of the VNA, St Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre. Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was a son of Mary Ann Schilling, Wilkes-Barre, and the late Charles E Schilling. He was educated

Helen A. Olsakowski

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Frank J. Avvisato

OBITUARIES

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

OBITUARIES

Rita Olecki December 25, 2011 Mrs. Rita Olecki, 86, of Duryea, died December 25, 2011 Christmas morning at Regional Hospital Hospice Unit, surrounded by her family. Born in Duryea, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Stella Malkowski Brennan. Prior to her retirement, she was employed by Diamond Vending at Topps, Duryea, for many years. She was a member of Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Duryea. She was a member of the social clubs at Crossin Towers, Duryea, where she resided. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Chester, who passed away in 1964; beloved son, Brian, who passed

away in 1977; sister Arlene Carlin and brothers, Anthony, Harold and Paul. Rita was a kind, gentle woman who had great faith in our Lord. Her faith helped her through many tragedies in her life. Rita dearly loved her daughter and granddaughter. Her granddaughter, Jennifer, was the "light of her life." She will be sadly missed by her family. Surviving are daughter, Nancy Glevick, and her husband, John, of Old Forge; granddaughter, Jennifer Kretsch, and her husband, Noah, of Factoryville. Funeral was held Dec. 28 from the Piontek Funeral Home, Duryea, with Mass of Christian Burial in Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Duryea. Interment St. John’s Cemetery, Duryea.

December 17, 2011 Jean Bianco, 90, of Las Vegas, NV, and formerly of Swoyersville, died December 17, 2011, while under the care of Compassion Care Hospice, after a long illness. She was a daughter of the late Walter and Anna Zukoski Pokrzywnicki. She was born and raised in Swoyersville and was the former wife of the late Anthony Bianco of Pittston. Moving to Cleveland, Ohio, the couple and son Jack were employed by the industries in that area for many years until retirement. In Las Vegas, she served as chairwoman of her private community’s committee to act as counsel involving local regulations, for which she received awards for her service. She was also preceded in death by brothers, John, Edward,

Lorraine Vance West Virginia, and Florida. She was a resident of Wilkes-Barre for the past seven years. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Jack Vance, of West Virginia. She is survived by her step-children, Harvey, Kenneth, Danny and Leslie Vance, all of West Virginia, and Jackie Vance of South Carolina. Her brother Wayne Perrins, of Wilkes-Barre, her beloved cat Abigal, several

grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and aunts and uncles also survive her. A memorial service was held Dec. 31 at Kiesinger Funeral Services, Duryea, with Rev. Richard Rock of St. John’s Primitive Methodist Church, Avoca, off iciating. Interment Marcy Cemetery, Duryea. Online condolences may be made towww.kiesingerfuneralservices.com

PAGE 52

l a r e n Fu y r o t c e r Di Ba lo ga Funera l Ho m e, Inc. w w w .b a loga fu nera lhom e.com Su sa n L . Ba loga - Su pervisor

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G ub b io tti Funera l Ho m e 1030 W yom ing Avenu e,Exeter

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December 27, 2011 and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. Before joining the U.S. Air Force, Patrick was a member of the U.S. Army. He was a member of the Swoyersville American Legion Post 644 and the Wyoming Hose Company 2. He was also preceded in death by his wife, the former Gisela Teichert, on February 6, 2011; and infant sister, Peggy. Surviving are his sons, Ralf-Peter Klynott and his wife, Linda, Lake of the

Mountain Top. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Bridget Church, Las Vegas, NV. Interment Palm Eastern Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were made by Palm Eastern Mortuary and Cemetery.

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Patrick Klynott Chief Master Sergeant Patrick Klynott, 75, of Exeter, died December 27, 2011, in the Inpatient Unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre. Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was a son of the late Matthys and Margaret (Hannon) Klynoot. Patrick was a Chief Master Sergeant with the U.S. Air Force for 24 years,

Thaddeus, Frank, Walter, Chester, Aloysius, Leo, Benjamin and Joseph and sister Helen. Surviving are her son, Jack; sisters, Charlotte Pomicter, Sun City, CA; Ann Evans, Cypress, CA; brother, Stanley Polk,

1201 M a in Street,Pittston

December 24, 2011 Lorraine (Perrins) Vance, 69, of Wilkes-Barre, died December 24, 2011 that Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. She was born in Dupont, March 21st, 1942 and was the daughter of the late George and Dorothy (Lidy) Perrins. Lorraine graduated from Pittston schools and the Pittston School of Medicine. She worked at various hospitals throughout her life, in Pennsylvania, New York,

Jean Bianco

Ozarks, MO, and John Fitzgerald Klynott, St. Louis, MO; sister Kathleen L. Klynoot, Pittston; brothers, John Raymond, Carmel, IN; James G., Albuquerque, NM; Matthew, Merritt Island, FL, and Eugene P., Punta Gorda, FL; and several nephews and nieces. Funeral service and interment were held Dec. 30 in Denison Cemetery, Swoyersville. Online condolences may be made at www.corcoranfuneralhome.com.

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December 23, 2011

tal. Born in East Lemon, she was the daughter of the late Louis and Julia Gerhardt Ellis. She was a graduate of Tunkhannock High School, class of 1945 and received her RN from the Moses Taylor Hospital School of Nursing. Ida continued her education at the University of Pennsylvania, where she received her Master’s Degree in Nursing. For many years, she was employed at Hahnemann Hospital of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia VA Medical Center. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of West Pittston.

Also preceding her in death were her sisters Rose Barziloski and Julia Nelson; brother Louis Ellis. Surviving are sisters, Helen Biles, Jenkins Township; Esther Alt and her husband, Ted, Zionsville, Indiana; Mildred Ellis, Jenkins Township; brothers, Albert Ellis and his wife, Charlotte, Montrose; Bud Ellis and his wife, Ann, Exeter; nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Dec. 27 in the Metcalfe and Shaver Funeral Home, Wyoming, with the Rev. Josh Masland of the First United Methodist Church of West Pittston officiating. Interment Nicholson Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of West Pittston, West Pittston, 18643.

Frances B. Bannon December 22, 2011 Frances Bright Bannon, of Pittston, died December 22, 2011. Born in Pittston on December 13, 1918, she was a daughter of the late John and Nancy Pugliese Bright. She celebrated her 93rd birthday on December 13, 2011. She was a graduate of Pittston High School, class of 1936, and was a member of St. John the Evangelist Parish Community, Pittston. She was also a member of the Jacquelines Association. She was also preceded in death by brothers, Joseph Bright and James Bright; sisters Mary Centrella and Genevieve McHale; son-in-law, Gerard Gallagher. She is survived by her loving

and devoted husband of 73 years, James Bannon, Pittston; daughters, Ann Gallagher, Fort Wayne, IN, and Kathy Sulima, Pittston; four grandsons, James Gallagher (Denise), Carmel, IN; Gerald Gallagher (Kari), Granger, IN; James Sulima (Cindy), Pittston, and Joseph Sulima (Kate), Effort; sisters Viola Giannone, Pittston, and Nancy Benjunas, Milford, CT; eight greatgrandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Dec. 31 in the Peter J. Adonizio Funeral Home, Pittston, with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. John the Evangelist Church, Pittston. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Online condolences may be made at www.peterjadoniziofuneralhome.com.

Angie M. Burnside December 28, 2011 Funeral arrangements are pending from the Peter J. Adonizio Funeral Home, 251 William St., Pittston.

James N. Ciavarella, 73, of Old Forge, formerly of Mountain Top, died December 23, 2011 at the Riverside Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Taylor. He was born March 23, 1938 in Cunningham, a son of the late Peter and Jeanette Mercidonti Ciavarella. He was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School, class of 1955. Mr. Ciavarella formerly owned and operated J.C. Trucking in Mountain Top. He was a former member of St. Jude’s Church in Mountain Top. He was preceded in death by his wife, Maryann Carlo Ciavarella, in 2003. He was also preceded in death

by his brothers, Ben, Paul, Carmen and Michael Ciavarella and by his sister, Venus Mariano. Surviving are children, Antoinette (Toni) Lisowski and her husband, Frank, Old Forge; Frank Ciavarella and his wife, Michele, Mountain Top; Andrea Saba and her husband, Alex, Mountain Top; James Ciavarella Jr. and his wife, Janice, Mountain Top; grandchildren, Maryann Tayoun, Meagann Verdetto, Alicia Ciavarella, Zackery Ciavarella, Ashleigh Ciavarella, Deidra Ciavarella, Alex Saba Jr. and Adam Saba; great-granddaughters, Annabella Tayoun and Sophia Jonna Verdetto; sisters, Angie Plesh, New Jersey; Rachael Nardone, WilkesBarre; Mary DeAngelo,

Wilkes-Barre; brothers, Joseph Ciavarella, Wilkes-Barre; Tony Ciavarella, Hazleton; Philip Ciavarella, New Jersey; Frank Ciavarella, Hanover Township; John Ciavarella, Wilkes-Barre; numerous nieces and nephews. James’ family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the Riverside Rehabilitation & Nursing Center for their loving care. Funeral services were held Dec. 28 from the Nat & Gawlas Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre. Memorial donations may be made to the Therapy Department & the Riverside Rehabilitation Department, 500 Hospital Street, Taylor, 18517. Online condolences may be made at www.natandgawlasfuneralhome.com.

Catherine Akers December 25, 2011 Catherine Akers, 94, of Port Griffith, passed away Sunday, December 25, 2011 Christmas morning, at the home of her daughter in Bear Creek Township. She was the widow of Harry Akers, who passed away in 1958. Born in Port Griffith, she was the daughter of the late Andrew and Elizabeth Svec Vincek. She was educated in St. John the Baptist School, Pittston. Prior to retirement, she was employed by Wright Aeronautical and Botany 500 in New Jersey and later for Topps Co., Duryea. She was a former member of St. John the Baptist Church and current member of St John the Evangelist Church, Pittston. Catherine was a beloved mother, grandmother,

great-grandmother who was cherished by both family and friends and will be dearly missed. She was a member of the Jenkins Twp. Senior Citizens and a past member of the Avoca VFW Post 8335 Ladies Auxiliary. Surviving are her beloved daughters, Christine AkersMack and her husband, John Mack, Bear Creek Township; Theresa Griguts, Henderson, Nevada; sister, Elizabeth Evitts, Jenkins Township; three grandchildren, three great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Ronald Akers, three sisters, Anna Terpak, Elizabeth Vincek and Mary Waldinger and two brothers,

Edward J. Cope

Andrew and Frank Vincek. The funeral was held Dec. 29 from the Baloga Funeral Home, Pittston (Port Griffith), with a Mass of Christian Burial in St John the Evangelist Church, Pittston. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Memorial contributions may be made to St John the Evangelist Care and Concern Ministries 35 William St., Pittston, 18640 or the American Heart Association 613 Baltimore Dr., Suite 3, Wilkes-Barre, 18702. To send an online condolence visit www.BalogaFuneralHome.com.

In Loving M em ory O f

M a rjorie T. G reen O ne YearIn H eaven 12/21/2010

December 19, 2011 Edward J. Cope, 39, of Allentown, died, December 19, 2011, in his home. He worked as a press operator at Hapco Screen Printing, Emmaus, and previously worked at Tyler Pipe and Maui Cup, Pittston. Surviving him are his

mother, Dianne, and stepfather, Charles Parenti, Hughesville; sister, Lisa Cope; and brother, Jesse Cope. Services will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to Nicos C. Elias Funeral Home, Allentown, www.eliasfuneralhome.com.

Sadly M issed By K atie,Jerry and h erm any Friends

PAGE 53

Angie M. Burnside, 74, of Pittston, passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2011 in Regional Hospital, Scranton.

December 23, 2011

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Ida Ellis, 85, of Jenkins Township, died December 23, 2011 in the Wilkes-Barre General Hospi-

James N. Ciavarella

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Ida Ellis

OBITUARIES

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Helen K. Oselinsky

OBITUARIES

December 23, 2011 Helen K. Oselinsky, age 81, of Tunkhannock, died December 23, 2011 at home. She is survived by her beloved husband, Nicholas Oselinsky Jr. Wed on September 3, 1955, the couple were married for 56 years. Born in Nanticoke, on April 22, 1930, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Mary Swantko Krapcho. Helen was educated in Nanticoke schools. Of Russian Orthodox faith, she was a member of both Holy Resurrection R.O. Parish in Nanticoke and St. Michael’s R.O. Parish in Old Forge. A brother, Wasil "Bill"

Krapcho, also preceded her in death. She is also survived by her son, Dr. David Oselinsky and wife, Marcia, of State College; her brother, Frank Krapcho Jr., of Columbia, MD; and two grandchildren, Alexa and Katrina Oselinsky. A Divine Liturgy was celebrated Dec. 27 at Holy Resurrection Russian Orthodox Church, Nanticoke. Interment parish cemetery. Arrangements by the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Old Forge. Visit www.KearneyFuneralHome.com to leave an online condolence.

Robert S. Naples, Sr. December 24, 2011 Robert S. Naples Sr., 78, of Wyoming, December 24, 2011 in the Wilkes-Barre General Hos-

pital. Born in Yatesville, he was the son of the late Sebastian Naples and Anna Vidzar. He was a graduate of Jenkins Township High School, class of 1950. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by Acme Markets in the Inventory Control Department. Since 2003, he was employed at Barber Ford of Exeter. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Church of St. Monica’s Parish, Wyoming. In his earlier years, Bob could be found playing golf and softball in Yatesville. He now enjoyed his weekly trips to the Mohegan Sun Casino, detailing his cars and tending to his yard. Also preceding him in death

were his wife, the former Nancy Ralston, and brothers, Samuel and Anthony Naples. Surviving are children, Donna Ulrich and her husband, William, Sinking Springs; Maria Winsock and her companion, Steve Michael, Thornhurst; Robert Naples and his wife, Carol, Wyoming; Richard Naples and his wife, Jackie, Duryea; grandchildren, Robert Naples III, Kristen Naples, Derek Ulrich and Jordan Naples; nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Dec. 29 from the Metcalfe and Shaver Funeral Home, Wyoming, with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Josephs Church of St. Monica’s Parish, Wyoming. Interment Denison Cemetery, Swoyersville. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Greater Delaware Valley Chapter, 30 South 17th Street, Suite 800, Philadelphia, 19103.

Theresa M. Haas

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December 20, 2011 Theresa (Teresa) M. Haas, 60, of Pittston, died December 20, 2011, in Wilkes-Barre. Born in Pittston, she was a daughter of the late Dorothy Haas. She was a child care worker in Florida for over 31 years.

Surviving are her godchild, Molla; a cousin, Linda Jadus; and two friends, MaryBeth Mazonis and Carol Sergio. Funeral arrangements are private from the Paul F. Leonard Funeral Home, Pittston.

Robert Skursky, Sr. December 22, 2011

Robert (Bob) Skursky Sr., of Wyoming, died December 22, 2011 at home. Born in 1934, he was one of 11 children by the late Edward and Anna Skursky. Bob was educated in the Wyoming schools and graduated from Wyoming High School. Bob proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for four years. He was a proud member of the Local Teamsters Union 401 in Wilkes-Barre, through which he worked for various trucking companies and worked on the

construction of the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station in Berwick. Bob was a devout Catholic and member of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Wyoming, for years. He served as an usher and was a member of the Holy Name Society. Although a work-related injury in 1990 eventually left Bob bound to a wheelchair, he never lost his positive attitude or love for life, family and friends. His quick wit will be solely missed by those who knew him well. Surviving are his loving wife

of 43 years, Karen Suponcic Skursky; his son Bob Jr.; brother, Gene Skursky; sisters, Eva and Stell Skursky, and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his in-laws, Frank and Cecelia Suponcic. Private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family at the Hugh B. Hughes & Son Funeral Home, Forty Fort. Interment Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas. The family would like to thank Dr. Gelb and Dr. Amini for their care given.

Ronald D. Pantucci December 25, 2011 Ronald David Pantucci, 67, of Pittston, died December 25, 2011, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Township. Born in Pittston on November 19, 1944, he was a son of the late Delmo and Rita Pelliccia Pantucci. He was a graduate of Pittston Township High School. Ronald was employed as a meat cutter in several local grocery stores. Most recently, he was working for Pennsylvania Child Care and Pittston Area High School in the custodial depart-

ment. He was an avid golfer and a member of Emanon Country Club, Harding. He was a member of St. Joseph Marello Parish at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and its Holy Name Society; and took an active role in the church picnic. He was also preceded by a brother, Kenny; sisters-in-law Palma Lucas and Grace Hopkins. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sue Ann Lieback (Barretta) Pantucci; son, Ronald Pantucci Jr., and his wife, Elizabeth, Pittston; daughter, Michelle Hochstien, and her husband, Jason, Wisconsin; step-son, Ronald Barretta, Pittston; sister, Li-

sa Pantucci, Pittston Township; aunt, Lena Pantucci; sister-inlaw Marion Pantucci, Pittston Township; brothers-in-law, Mike Lieback and his wife, Mary; Pete Lieback and his wife, Sharon, and Robert Lucas; seven grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Dec. 30 in the Peter J. Adonizio Funeral Home, Pittston, with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Joseph Marello Parish in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Pittston. Interment St. Rocco’s Cemetery, Pittston Township. Online condolences may be made at www.peterjadoniziofuneralhome.com.

Curtis E. Hannon, Sr. December 22, 2011 Curtis Everitt Hannon Sr. of Harding, died December 22, 2011 in Wilkes Barre General Hospital. He was born in Pittston, on February 1, 1968, son of Margaret "Peggy" Labarre and the late Walter D. Hannon. He was a 1986 graduate of Wyoming Area High School. Curtis was owner of Wing Zone, Pittston, and formerly owned Januzzi’s Pizza in Pittston and Plains. He was a member of The First United Methodist Church, West Pittston. He was President of The

West Pittston Little League, former director of both the Wyoming Area and Hanover Area Marching Bands. Curtis was a loving husband, father, brother and a dedicated coach. He was named president of the West Pittston Little League this past year and worked tirelessly to supply every player with the proper uniform for the season after the recent flood. He was also preceded in death by grandfather C. Everitt LaBarre; grandmothers, Margaret and Rhea LaBarre; great aunt Louise Jones. He is survived by his mother Peggy Labarre Santich and her husband David; wife

Glenda Rinehimer Hannon; sons, Joseph Curtis, Curtis Everitt Jr., Christopher Edsel; daughter Megan Louise; sisters, Jacquelyn HannonButler and husband; Grover "Buddy" Butler; Deborah Daniels, Jill Venturo and Cindy Timinski; brothers, Jack Hannon, Boomer Daniels; nephews, Brandon Everitt Butler, Joshua and Jeremy Lowery; Brandon Rinehimer; niece Jordan Rinehimer. The funeral was held Dec. 27 at the Howell-Lussi Funeral Home, West Pittston. Memorial donations may be sent to the West Pittston Little League, P.O. Box 92, West Pittston, 18643.

December 24, 2011 Sean T. Walsh, 38, of Jenkins Township, died December 24, 2011 at the Inpatient Unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre. Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of Thomas Walsh of Pittston and Rita Kwiatkowski Walsh of Edwardsville. Sean was a graduate of Wyoming Valley West High School, Class of

1992 and was formerly employed by Mericle Industries as a heavyequipment operator and last owned and operated S & S Detailing and Customizing in Pittston Township. Also surviving are his wife, the former Sarah Latona; sisters, Tracey Walsh Morrissey, Edwardsville; Amy Walsh, Kingston; Kimberly Walsh, Edwardsville, and Brigid Walsh, Pittston; paternal grandmother, Geraldine Walsh, Plains; nephews, Eric, Tyler and Braeden; nieces, Mor-

December 23, 2011 gan and Keira. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Dec. 27 in St. Joseph Marello Parish at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Pittston. Interment at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations may be made to The Frank M. and Dorothea Henry Cancer Center at Geisinger Wyoming Valley,1000 East Mountain Blvd., WilkesBarre, 18711. Online condolences may be made at www.corcoranfuneralhome.com.

John R. Eshelman December 27, 2011 John Richard Eshelman, 76, died December 27, 2011, in his home in Harding, where he resided for 43 years. He was born in Kingston, February 16, 1935, a son of the late John Richard and Capitola Bosten Eshelman. John was a graduate of West Pittston High School, class of 1953. Following high school, he was employed by NCR as a field engineer until his retirement in 1994. John remained active after retirement. He was a mem-

ber of the Harding Fire Company and the Valley Masonic Lodge 499, F & A.M, West Pittston. He was a 50-year member of Valley Lodge and served as Past Master. He enjoyed camping while in Florida for the winter. He was a faithful member of Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Wilkes-Barre. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Louis and Donald Eshelman. First and foremost, John was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Adelina Cesari Eshelman; daughters, Karen Klimas and husband Michael,

Harding; Cheryl Bencho, Wilkes-Barre. He was blessed with four grandchildren, Matthew and Mikayla Klimas, Harding; Aaron and Nicole Bencho, Wyoming; sister, Sally Falzone, Wilkes-Barre; and several nieces and nephews. The funeral was held Dec. 30 in the Howell-Lussi Funeral Home, West Pittston, with Funeral Mass in Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Wilkes-Barre. Interment West Pittston Cemetery. Memorial donations may be sent to Holy Cross Episcopal Church, 373 N. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, 18704.

Cary D. Kasa December 26, 2011 sa Coal and Well Drilling Company, where Cary loved strip mining coal on top of Archbald Mountain in Carbondale. Cary’s true joys were picking mushrooms, his Humphreys Hot Dog Cart, tapping maple trees, his Harley, watching cooking shows, family golf cart rides and spending time in his tree stand. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Michael Kasa and Joseph Casey; sisters Julie Hudzinski, Pauline Piechota, Barbara Urtishak. He is survived by his wife Donna Costello Kasa; son Christopher and wife Jacqualyn, Wyoming; daughter Cara O’Hop and husband; Vinnie, Pittston Township; brothers, Theodore Casey and wife AnnMarie, Pittston Town-

ship; Vincent Kasa and wife Betty Ann, Pittston Township; sisters, Betty Bellas and husband Richard, Pittston Township; Elaine Kasa, Pittston Township. Papa will be sadly missed by the lights of his life, his granddaughters, Maya, Lily, Julianna, and his faithful dog, Humprey; motherin-law, Gloria Costello, Dupont; sister-in-law, Marianne Costello, Dupont. The funeral was held Dec. 29 from the Howell-Lussi Funeral Home, West Pittston, with Mass of Christian Burial in Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Dupont. Memorial donation may be sent to Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 215 Lackawanna Avenue, Dupont, 18641. Entombment parish cemetery.

Isador Zibuck, 81, formerly of Exeter, died December 23, 2011 at the Riverstreet Manor,

Wilkes-Barre. Born in Kingston, he was the son of the late Isador and Helen Pilat Zibuck. Mr. Zibuck was a U.S. Army veteran, having served during the Korean War. Prior to his retirement, he worked as a quality control supervisor at the Tobyhanna Army Depot. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Stanley and Thomas, and sisters, Julia Yaglowsky and Mary Zibuck.

Surviving are his daughters, Maryann and her husband, Mark Miklich, Syracuse, NY, Teresa Lepo and her husband, Rocco Guarino, Exeter, and Regina Zibuck and her husband, Vince Cinquegrani, Sterling Heights, Michigan; grandchildren, Joseph and Anthony Lepo and Maggie and Elise Miklich and Mark, David and Maria Cinquegrani. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Dec. 27 at St. Frances Cabrini Church, Carverton. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. Funeral arrangements by the Gubbiotti Funeral Home, Exeter.

Judith L. Yates December 22, 2011 Judith L. (Nardone) Yates, 57, of Wilkes-Barre, died December 22, 2011 at her home. Born in Kingston, on April 25, 1954, she was the daughter of Josephine (Dupack) Nardone of Wilkes-Barre and the late Alfonso Nardone Jr. She was a 1972 graduate of Wyoming Area High School. She also attended Wilkes College, Luzerne County Community College and graduated with honors from Allied Medical and Technical Careers. She was formerly employed in the garment industry and later worked at the lab at the former Mercy Hospital as a phleboto-

mist. She is also survived by her husband of 30 years, Robert Yates; son Jeremy McDonnell, Hanover Township; daughter Melanie Miscavage, Edwardsville; grandchildren Andrea McDonnell, Michael Walter Jr., Stephanie Walter and Jeremy McDonnell Jr.; brother, Thomas Nardone, Kingston; sisters Anne Hetherington, Maryland; Barbara Marrow, North Carolina; Kathy DiCaprio, Wilkes-Barre; several nieces and nephews. Services will be private. Kniffen O’Malley Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Visit www.BestLifeTributes.com to leave an online condolence.

Robert J. Plappert December 24, 2011 Robert James Plappert, 75, Old Forge, died December 24, 2011, in the Northeast Hospice Unit of the Regional Hospital of Scranton. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, the former Susan Kachuroi. Prior to retirement, Robert was employed by Don’s Vending. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a corporal. Also surviving are sons, Robert, Jr., Dunmore; Jack, Swiftwa-

ter, and Michael, Langhorne; a daughter, Alicia Lozar, Reading; a brother, Don, Dupont; three grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins. The funeral was Dec. 28 from the Ferri Funeral Home, Old Forge, with services in the Stewart Memorial United Methodist Church, Old Forge. Interment Old Forge Cemetery. To leave an online condolence, visit www.ferrifuneralhome.com.

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Cary David Kasa, 57, of Pittston Township, died December 26, 2011 after spending a beautiful Christmas day with his family. Born in Dupont, January 3, 1954, he was the son of the late Nicholas and Mary Peck Kasa. He was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Dupont. He was a 1971 graduate of St. John’s High School, Pittston. Cary was a member of Pittston Township Ambulance Board and Italian Club of Dupont. He served in the Air Force Reserve for two years. He was self-employed owner and partner of Casey-Kas-

Isador Zibuck

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Sean T. Walsh

OBITUARIES

SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

Wishing our Clients and Friends a Very Merry Christmas and a Healthy & Prosperous New Year! From Your Friends At

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Atlas Insurance Group & Atlas Realty, Inc.

Pictured from Left to Right, front row: Luann Sperrazza, Colleen Turant, Debbie Ferack, Charles Adonizio (Broker/Owner), Karen Adonizio, Michele Reap, Tom Salvaggio and Angie Dessoye. Back row: Keri Best, Julio Caprari, Joe Caprari, Fred Mecadon, Terry Guasto, and Nancy Bohn. Absent at time of photo: Bill Williams, Phil Semenza, Glen Gubitose, Melissa Hudzinski, and Kevin Sobilo.

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SUNDAY DISPATCH

Social Section S

S E C T I O N

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 1B

Inside PA Chorus ......................2-3 Birthdays............................3 Schools ...........................4-5 Classified......................7-12

Plan August wedding in Sacramento Mr. and Mrs. William Philipps, Santa Cruz, California, are pleased to announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Nuria, to Joseph Gentile, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Gentile, Exeter. Nuria is a graduate of San Jose State University and is employed as a Retail Manager for Macy’s. Joseph is a 2001 graduate of Wyoming Area and 2005 graduate of Shippensburg University. He took graduate courses at John’s Hopkins University and received his Master’s Degree in criminal justice in 2010 from American Military University. He was previously employed as a police officer with the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department and is currently employed as a Deputy US Marshal with the US Marshal’s Service in Sacramento, California. An August 25 wedding in Sacramento is planned.

Joseph Gentile, Jr., and Nuria Phillips

AT P I T T S T O N A R E A P R I M A R Y C E N T E R

‘What’s Special About December’ assembly The Pittston Area Primary Center “What’s Special About Decem- that highlighted special events during the month of December. Reading and math skills were integrated into the performance. ber Assembly” was held on December 15. All students at the Primary Center have the opportunity to perform Students from Mrs. Shotwell’s first grade class and Miss Morreale’s second grade class performed songs, poems and movements in one assembly during the year.

Mrs. Sean Paul Kwiatkowski

Amy Lynn Zielinski is New Year’s Eve Bride

Mrs. Shotwell's 1st grade class first row: Jaylee Jenkins, Rhiannon Legg, Sydney McDavitt, Andrew Mauriello, Julia Pesotine, Dylan Brannigan, Blaze Bruneio, Vincent Quinones. Second row: Caiden O'Malley, Peter Zawierucha, Nevaeh Thomas, Brooke Steward, Victoria Pintha, Zoey Romanowski, Sean Grady, Collin Keogh, Third row: Mrs. Shotwell, Abigail Hoban, Kaylyn O'Brien, Donald Panzino, Mike Nowakowski, Mark Korea, Morgan Carmen, Hailey Walling, Kevin Johnson, Edward Tressa.

Amy Lynn Zielinski and Sean Paul Kwiatkowski were married December 31, 2011. The evening ceremony took place at St. Ann Basilica in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Father Richard Burke performed the double ring ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Dale Falcone, of Kingston. She is the granddaughter of Amelia Falcone and the late Angelo Falcone, both of Pittston, and Victoria Zielinski and the late John Zielinski, both of Duryea. The groom is the son of Ann Marie Kwiatkowski, Scranton, and Theodore and Patricia Kwiatkowski, Moosic. The bride was presented in marriage by her mother and brother, Robert Zielinski, and chose her friend Angela Forlenza as her Maid of Honor. Her cousin, Lindsey Falcone, was bridesmaid. The groom chose his son Matthew Kwiatkowski, and friend Bill Ferrario, as his Best Men. The bride was honored with a bridal shower hosted by her attendants, mother and Aunt Kathy Falcone, of Forty Fort, at the Tripp House. A rehearsal dinner was hosted by Theodore and Patricia at Jilly’s, Scranton. An evening cocktail hour and reception were held at the Colonnade where everyone welcomed the New Year. The bride is 1998 graduate of Pittston Area High School. She earned a BA in Television, Radio and Film and Psychology from Syracuse University in 2002. She is Director of Sales and Marketing for an advertising post studio in New York City. The groom is a 1996 graduate of West Scranton High School. He is employed by Proctor and Gamble Paper Products. The couple will honeymoon in Belize. They reside in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Big Band Society dinner dance Friday Miss Morreale's 2nd grade class first row: Zachary Elko, Lizzy Swingle, Ozzie Dobrowalski, Alex Prete, Tyler Cegelka, Carrie Kozak, Dreah Docto. Second row: Emily Dunn, Amber Wright, Emma Calvey, Hannah Hapersberger, Aiden Mehal, Alex Fussner, Rhena Rosencrans, Aaron Hall. Third row: Evan Venetz, Gianna Guilano, Elina Vangelatos, Biagio Manganiello, Chris Castro, Leanna Wruble, Angel Rivera, Lars Thomas, Julia Price, Miss Morreale, Teacher.

The Big Band Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania will present its next dinner dance on Friday, January 6, at Genetti’s Hotel and Convention Center Wilkes-Barre. This event is for members only. The doors will open at 5:45

p.m. with dinner at 6:30 p.m. Music is provided by Mike Shema. For reservations please call Glen at 570.586.5359 or Herman at 570.654.6454. Herman Castellani will preside.

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SUNDAY DISPATCH

Pittston Area Intermediate Center, Middle School and High School choruses present annual Christmas Concert

The Pittston Area Intermediate Center, Middle School, and High School Choruses perform the finale of their Christmas Concert at the high school auditorium last Wednesday night. More photos on facing page. PHOTOS BY BILL TARUTIS

Third graders Kim Pontier, left, Rayanna Newman, and Logan Wheeler sing with the Intermediate Center Chorus.

Third graders Rachel Zingaretti, left, Kyleigh Shupp, and Hannah Foersch sing with the Intermediate Center Chorus.

Samantha Schneider, right, shares a laugh with Marina Sell between songs during the Pittston Area High School High School Chorus performance.

Members of the Intermediate Center Chorus act out 'a partridge in a pear tree' during the 'Twelve Days of Christmas.'

Taylor Roberts, left, and Katlyn Jumper sing in the High School Chorus.

Third graders Grace Slezak, left, and Cathy Vest perform during the Pittston Area concert.

Director Adam Burdett conducts the Pittston Area High School Chorus.

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 3B

Lilly Spathelf Lilly Nevaeh Spathelf, daughter of Robert Jr. and Ellen Spathelf, of Duryea, will celebrate her 4th birthday on January 4. Lilly is the granddaughter of Robert Sr. and Joyce Spathelf, Scranton, and the late Louis and Eleanor Mancini, Duryea. Lilly bowls at Modern Lanes, Exeter, in the Peewee League and takes ballet at MYC School of Dance in Moosic. She also attends pre-school in Sweet Valley.

The Pittston Area Middle School Chorus performs at the Christmas Chorus Concert last Wednesday night at the high school auditorium. More photos on facing page.

Shane Pepe

PHOTOS BY BILL TARUTIS

Shane Pepe, son of Jeff and Kelly Pepe, will celebrate his fourth birthday on January 4. Shane is the grandson of Dave and Patti Pepe and Peggy Morgantini, West Pittston, and Lou Morgantini, West Wyoming. He is the great grandson of John Stefanelli, West Pittston. Shane attends preschool at the Apple Tree Nursery School. He has a brother, Jaden, 7 and a sister, Malina, 1.

Happy Birthday! Eighth grader Taylor Baloga plays guitar with 'The Sperazza Band' during the finale of the Pittston Area Christmas Chorus Concert last Wednesday night.

Stop by or mail your birthday photo to: Eighth grader Kayla Williams sings in the Pittston Area Middle School Chorus.

The Sunday Dispatch 109 New Street Pittston, PA 18640 Pictures can run in back and white for $2 or color for $10. Deadline is Wednesday at 5 p.m., but space is limited, so pictures will be published on a first-come, first-served basis. Any questions, please call 602-0168. Checks can be made payable to The Sunday Dispatch.

Sixth graders Devynn Davison, left, and Katie Petro perform 'Dominic the Donkey' during the Pittston Area concert.

Fourth grader Tori Clossey, left, and third grader Jordan Mortimer perform 'four calling brids' during the 'Twelve Days of Christmas.'

Seventh grader leads WA Catholic book drive Eighth grader Taylor Baloga, center, plays with Eric Sperazza, left, Mike Sperazza, and Jennifer Sperazza of 'The Sperazza Band' in the finale of the Pittston Area Christmas Chorus Concert last Wednesday night at the high school auditorium.

Sarah Cragle, seventh grade student at Wyoming Area Catholic, led an Advent season book drive to benefit the library at Wyoming Area Catholic. Sarah encouraged her classmates, during the season of Advent to donate a used or new book. At the end of the season, Sarah presented the books to the Mrs. Sabetta, librarian. Pictured are Sarah and Mrs. Sabetta.

Cosmopolitan Seniors gather for Christmas party

Sixth graders Tabatha Stankiewicz, left, and Kalie Uzialko sing in the Pittston Area Middle School Chorus.

The Cosmopolitan Seniors and their guests greeted the holiday season with a Christmas party at St. Anthony’s Center as festive music provided by DJ Jack Bravyak added to the jovial atmosphere. Pastor Father Philip Massetti opened with remarks and asked the invocation. The men of the club then served up a buffet dinner prepared by Bobby O’s, and topped off with cake and ice cream. Chairlady Amy Alpaugh and her committee of Tom Alpaugh, Carole Baccanari, Mary Kovaleski, Mary Ann Kull, Antionette Manganello, and Veronica Wyandt had decorated the tables with homemade baked coo-

kies, treats and live poinsettias. Door prizes were awarded, gifts exchanged and the music continued for dancing and singing. President Vic Malinowski thanked the committee for a job well done, and extended a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone. The next meeting will be on Jan. 3 at 1 p.m. in St. Anthony’s Center. Travel coordinator Johanna is accepting reservations for a Casino trip on Wednesday, Jan. 11. Pickups will be in Exeter and Pittston. You do not have to be a member to come on these trips. Details can be obtained from Johanna at 655-2720.

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SUNDAY DISPATCH

Old Forge High students brighten elementary school party

ld Forge High School students, mostly members of the senior class, helped make the holidays bright for the district elementary students by participating in the elementary school Christmas party singing carols throughout the hallways of the school. Above, the marching units of Old Forge high school pose during the party.

Members of the Old Forge senior class sing Christmas carols for the elementary school students.

Seniors J Argonish, Ian Nemtez, Anthony Trotta, Corey Palma, Dave Argust, Adam Barsigian and Colin Carey with high school teacher Chris Gatto during the elementary school Christmas party.

Old Forge High School cheerleaders get into the Christmas spirit for the elementary school party.

Pittston Area Middle School The Pittston Area School District will be closed through Monday, Jan. 2, in observance of the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays. Schools will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 3. The annual Geography Bee will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 11.Students should see their social studies teacher for more information. The Martin L. Mattei Middle School is scheduling school pictures for the 2011-2012 school

year. Check here next week for more information or call the main office at 655-2927. Middle School Sports Weekly Schedule 9th Grade Girls’ Basketball: Tuesday, Jan. 3, at Berwick Area 7thGrade Girls’ Basketball: Jan. 7 vs. Tunkhannock Junior High Wrestling: Wednesday, Jan. 4, at Crestwood Area

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SUNDAY DISPATCH

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 5B

OLD FORGE SCHOOL DISTRICT

Old Forge science teacher awarded grant for ‘grease’ proposal Ten schools and organizations in the Lackawanna Heritage Valley National and State Heritage Area (LHV) were awarded Educational Mini-Grants on December 15, 2011. The ceremony took place at the Lackawanna Historical Society in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The Lackawanna Heritage Valley presented grants of $500 to ten diverse and innovative projects for children from preschool through grade twelve. Proposals came from schools in the Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit #19, as well as local cultural, environmental, and heritage organizations. The Educational Mini-Grant Program offers funding for projects that promote students’ understanding and appreciation of the rich heritage of the Lackawanna Heritage Valley and how it contributed to the development of our nation; or that develop stu-

dents’ understanding of the their role as caretakers of the environment, particularly in the Lackawanna River watershed. Now in its seventh year, the Educational Mini-Grant Program is a highly regarded educational initiative that supports creative, multi-disciplinary projects, many using the performing and visual arts as well as traditional academic curricula. “Preserving and telling the Lackawanna Valley’s rich history through educational programs is a major focus of the Lackawanna Heritage Valley National and State Heritage Area,” said Executive Director Natalie Gelb. “This grant cycle has some really creative and dynamic projects that build a sense of place and an appreciation for the region’s heritage, culture, and resources.” Among the grant recipients was Old Forge High School science teacher Chris Gatto for his

proposal titled “Biodiesel from Grease.” Gatto explained in his grant proposal that “students will collect used cooking grease from local restaurants, process the grease using the fundamentals of biology and chemistry, and then use the fuel to run various motorized diesel vehicles at the school.” The Lackawanna Heritage Valley National and State Heritage Area is based in Scranton. It works with community partners on projects that conserve, preserve, and educate the public about the region’s historic, cultural, economic and natural resources. For general information visit www.LHVA.org. For more information about the Educational Mini-Grant program, contact Tom McHugh, LHV Educational Coordinator, at (570) 7933692.

WYO M I N G A R E A S C H O O L D I ST R I CT

JFK students recognized for proficiency in reading Raymond J. Bernardi, Wyoming Area Superintendent, and Rita Mauriello, Title I Coordinator, announce that the J.F.K. Elementary School has received notification that it has been recognized as a Distinguished School in Overall Reading by the State Department of Education’s Divi-

sion of Federal Programs for proficiency in its Title I School. This is the third consecutive year that the J.F.K. School has earned this distinguished award. The school is one of 94 to earn this recognition out of more than 1,700 school with Title I programs in the state.

J.F.K. Elementary School will be recognized as a Distinguished Title I School at the Title School Improvement Conference at the Sheraton Square in Pittsburgh on Jan. 29. Jon Pollard is Principal of the school and Janet Serino is District Principal of Curriculum and Title II Coordinator.

Thom Welby, President of the Board of Directors of the Lackawanna Heritage Valley National and State Heritage Area (LHV), and Natalie Gelb, Executive Director of LHV, stand with the recipients of LHV's 2011-2012 Educational Mini-Grant awards. Standing from left, bottom row: Ms. Gelb; Georgia Moser Blake, 4th Grade, Lackawanna Trail Elementary School; Nikki Moser, artist with Lackawanna Trail Elementary School; and Mr. Welby. Second row: Christopher Gatto, Old Forge Junior/Senior High School; Lizabeth Conklin, Wallenpaupack South Elementary School; and Shannon Kuchak, Lackawanna Trail Elementary School. Third row: Barbara Giovagnoli, Lackawanna County Office of Environmental Sustainability; Megan Swann, Timmy's Town Center; Charles Charlesworth, Lackawanna Valley Trout Unlimited; and Diane Marinchak, West Scranton High School. Fourth row: Elizabeth Davis, Lackawanna County Children's Library; Marie Grzybowski, Isaac Tripp Elementary School; and Gerald J. Baldauff, West Scranton Intermediate School.

Wyoming Sem students support Toys for Tots Old Forge students aid Toys for Tots campaign The Wyoming Seminary Upper School community collected funds from students, faculty and staff to purchase new toys for the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Campaign. Upper School student government representatives organized the project and raised about $750. Seen picking up the toys are members of MWSS 472 Detachment Alpha in Wyoming with student government members: Pvt. Christopher Stine; Elizabeth Blaum, Student Activities Office; sophomore Ben Hornung, Forty Fort; junior Devin Holmes, government vice-president, Fleetville; senior Renata O’Donnell, government president, Wilkes-Barre; senior Hsin Hwang, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C.; senior Sean Banul, government treasurer, Pittston; junior Caroline Reppert, government secretary, Kingston; freshman Qianyi Cheng, Shanghai, China, P.R.C.; and Cpl. Juan Torres, Jr.

Old Forge Elementary 5th Grade Students completed their kindness project for the 2011-12 school year: a Toys for Tots collection during November. Along with their teachers Ms. Michelle Zaykowski, Mrs. Marissa Davis and Mrs. Amy Notari, students collected toys and monetary donations. Left to right, Jimmy Perry, Charles Karam, Julian Giglio, Elizabeth Iacavazzi, Juliana Matias, Abbey Nee, Shawna Heckman, Anna Kuckla, and Catrina Enderline, Cpl. Purdun and Cpl. Weiss

WA Catholic students donate Christmas gifts Athletic team jackets blessed at WA Catholic During the season of Advent and in the spirit of Christmas, staff, teachers and students of Wyoming Area Catholic donated gifts as part of the Giving Tree Project. The gifts were given to children in need from the surrounding community. 190 requests were received and all were fulfilled. Kneeling, Tyler Mozelesk. Standing, Mrs. Dana Ungureit and Mrs. Josie Toomey, coordinators of the project; MacKenzie Crake, Nicholas Prociak, Emma Ulichney, Abigail Kolessar, Elizabeth Kravitz and Kenny Remus.

A tradition at Wyoming Area Catholic every fall is to bless the sports jackets ordered by the 7th and 8th grade students. Fr. Joseph Verespy, pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Dupont, gave a special prayer and blessing for the students and their new jackets. First row, Zach Patterson, Nicole Cirelli, Tim Murphy, Vanessa Musto, Marissa Moran, Giana Tondora. Second row, Brenna Satkowski, Molly Holmes, Matthew Loeffler, Nadine Green and James Kosik.

SCHOOL MENUS Pittston Area High School and Middle School

Menu for week of January 2 Monday - No School Tuesday - Macaroni & cheese, bread slice, green beans, fruit, low fat milk Wednesday - Sweet & sour chicken, oriental vegetables, rice, bread, fruit, low fat milk Thursday - Roast pork with gravy, bread slice, mashed potatoes, peas, fruit, low fat milk Friday - Bacon cheeseburger, carrots, fruit, low fat milk High School Breakfast Grab & Go at cafeteria store has hot breakfast sandwiches, breakfast pizza, bagels & cream cheese, cereal with toast, breakfast bars, fresh fruit, juice & low fat milk. Middle School Breakfast Tuesday - Sausage & cheese on English muffin or scrambled eggs with toast

Wednesday - Pancakes with syrup or egg, bacon & cheese on baFriday - BBQ chicken dunkers or taco salad, bread, peas, pinegel apple tidbits, low fat milk Thursday - Breakfast pizza or egg & cheese on bagel Alternates Friday - Waffles with syrup or ham & cheese on bagel Italian wrap, chef salad, turkey hoagie, chicken nuggets with bread Available Daily Plain and specialty pizza, whole grain chicken patty, salads, asBreakfast sorted hoagies and wraps Tuesday - Pancake sausage wrap Wednesday - Sausage, egg & cheese on bagel Pittston Area Intermediate, Primary, Kindergarten Thursday - Scrambled eggs with toast Friday - Waffles with syrup Menu for week of January 2 Available Daily Breakfast pizza, assorted cereals with buttered toast, juice and low Monday – No School Tuesday - Rib A Que on bun or bacon cheeseburger, baked fries, fat milk carrots, peaches, low fat milk Wednesday - Pasta with meatballs, garlic bread or fish sandwich, Wyoming Area School District corn, pears, low fat milk Note: No menu was received from Wyoming Area Thursday - Pork chop, bread slice or teriyaki beef strips, mashed potatoes with gravy, mixed fruit, low fat milk

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2012

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SUNDAY DISPATCH

Community Christmas party at Wyoming Free Library

Friends and employees of the library: seating, left to right: Marcella Starr, John Roberts, library director, JoAnne Rygiel. Standing: Mary Sinibaldi, Lindsay Rysz, Susan Doty, Santa Claus, Pat Quinn, Rae Anusiewicz, Maureen Carey.

Oh deer, it's Lidia Pealer, 8, West Wyoming.

PHOTOS BY TONY CALLAIO

The Wyoming Free Library presented its annual Christmas party for the staff and community.

Abby Decker, 8, and Lindsay Rysz, help 2 1/2-year old Torrie Larson make a Christmas decoration.

Luke Fuller, 5, of West Pittston is getting serious about his puzzle with the help of Michele Garrison.

Christmas party participants and staff end the evening with caroling in the brisk winter air.

Adrienne Wren, 4, has a little chat with Santa.

Eight-month old Ben Klime looks a little puzzled at the man in the red suit and white beard.

Anna Wisniewski, 7, enjoys making her decorations at the craft table.