Journal of the Pocono Plateau, Mid-December 2023

The

Journal of the POCONO PLATEAU ©2023, All Rights Reserved

VOLUME 28, NUMBER 15

Mid December, 2023

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PMRPC hears costs report

by Pat Albano

MRS. CLAUS reads The Night Before Christmas at the Blakelee Community Center tree lighting.

Renovated Blakeslee Community Center hosts Christmas celebration Story and photos

by Lori R. Cooper

Blakeslee Community Center held its first tree lighting in the newly renovated building. The

kitchen has been redone as well as the floors, and a new backroom situated with cozy couches and chairs.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus were on hand to give out gifts See BCC, page 4

At the regular meeting of the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Commission on December 12, Chief of Police Chris Wagner gave updates on the month’s police report, noting arrests were down significantly in November in most municipalities.

New business centered on a request from Tunkhannock Township to change how it selects representatives.

Wagner said, “We need an amendment to a 1996 agreement.” A motion passed to have an amendment sent to municipalities for acceptance.

Wagner noted, “I received a letter from Sergeant Charlie LaRue, saying he will retire on February 2, 2024.”

The Commission thanked Sgt LaRue for his service, adding he will be missed.

Wagner then focused on a question previously raised by Mount Pocono Mayor Randy Altemose on how to save the borough money. Wagner stated, “I completed a feasibility study from 2020-22 on false alarms which totaled 3,500. Each false alarm adds up to 27.5 minutes and for the three-year study totals See PMRPC, page 2

Clymer Library director Melissa Lopez, left, and board of trustees member Valery Yura.

Weather doesn’t dampen Clymer tree lighting Story and photos

by Lori R. Cooper The downpour didn’t stop the celebration of the third annual Clymer Library tree lighting. Bruce and Trudi Denlinger, a former board of trustees president for the library, and their daughter Sara have sponsored this gift to the community.

Bruce shared with the

crowd, “The end of the year is for remembrance, to think where we’re from and where we’re going.

Hoping everyone’s New Year is sprinkled with love and friendship.”

Following the outdoor tree lighting, the Pocono Mountain West’s Show Choir, led by Mandy VanKuren, performed a few See CLYMER, page 6

PAGE 2 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023

Mt Pocono sets aside funds for road repairs

by Pat Albano

At the Mount Pocono Borough Council meeting on December 5, president Don Struckle asked council to consider increasing the roads budget to supplement road repair. The motion passed.

Council member Ann Marie Harris asked whether the supplement would change the budget, and Director Debra Fulton asked, “Will we ever reach a point where

the roads are good?” Council also approved a motion to authorize the budget for public inspection. Harris added, “Let the public know that we did not raise taxes.”

Council also approved a $7,357.52 cost estimate for generator repairs. When council also approved a change in Zoning Board composition from 5 to 3 members, vice-president Norm Delano asked, “How do we choose remaining

members?” with solicitor James Fareri explaining, “It has to be done by ordinance.”

A motion to establish Dog Park Rules passed. Dogs must be licensed and up to date on vaccines, and no smoking or vaping is allowed at the dog park.

Borough Manager Marissa Duffy asked council to consider submitting a grant for study to improve traffic

at the 5 Points Intersection.

The application needs to be submitted by December 15 for the matching grant.

Duffy was also authorized to submit a DEP Recycling Grant application.

Mayor Randy Altemose reported, “I received an email from the people building the warehouse who wanted to know about the LERTA.” Altemose was told

the tenant may breach the lease and wants to speak to other council members.

Altemose suggested this group may want to come back and strike a deal more advantageous for Mount Pocono.

The mayor thanked outgoing council member Ella Santiago for her service, saying “Ella, we will miss you.”

PMRPC

grant expires in 2024 and we will get this done.”

Wagner continued, “The hiring process is open for 2024. We have not advertised yet which will begin in January 2024.

Advertisements will appear in the newspapers as well as on billboards.” Additionally, “The 2024 promotional process will begin January 14, with scheduled interviews.”

Wagner discussed Shop with a Cop— a charitable program that focuses on underprivileged children and families in need. Police officers spend time with the children and shop with them in local stores. The police officer acts as a chaperone and companion to the children throughout the day

as they shop for items. This year the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Foundation is collaborating with schools and ten families in need.

Each family will receive a $500 gift card for Christmas.

Additionally, patrol officers will randomly hand out up to sixty $5 gift cards to less fortunate individuals within the community.

Wagner closed out his report stating. “The Police Foundation helps raise funds to support the department.”

Donations can be made online at: pmrpf.com/ how-to-donate or by calling 570-895-2400. Funds raised help in grant writing, to buy safety equipment and training, fund K9 and bike units and support community programs.

Continued from page 1 1,600 hours and costs of $50,000 each year. We need to start a discussion on how to free up false alarms and excessive responses to sensor failures, and I suggest visual verification within 24 hours.

This may not necessarily save us money, but it will increase our efficiency.”

Motions to approve the 2024 Police budget and meeting schedule also passed. Wagner added, “We did have movement on the American Recovery Act Grant including training. The

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BCC

Continued from page 1 to the children. Mrs. Claus read “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and led the crowd in singing “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” and “Jolly Old Saint Nick.”

Each child was given a gift bag that included glow balls, candy and various toys. One of the children’s favorite things, aside from sitting on Santa‘s lap, was ringing his bell.

Everyone enjoyed the craft of decorating little Christmas trees. There were plenty of cookies and hot chocolate to enjoy.

Theresa Gill noted she was “shocked how beautiful” the renovated community center looks. Many residents had memories going far back at the community center.

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5 year-old Alan Spiker, left, and 7 year-old Morgan Marhelko decorating a tree with BCC director Tammy Livziey.

Antonia Dowling enjoying cookies with 8 year-old Hobbes.

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Al and Marlies Kerrick , who had their wedding reception at the community center in 1970.

Marko Klevchuk,3 with his gift pack.

See BCC, page 5

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023 — PAGE 5

BCC

Continued from page 4 Al and Marlies Kerrick had their wedding reception

92 year-old Homer Argot

Ona Netreba, 5, left, and Althea Netreba, 3.

there in 1970 and talked about the various events they have enjoyed over the years.

Newest board member

Jay Keiper noted that his grandparents and parents also had their wedding receptions at the community center. He noted that the board is looking to have one event each month, including music and stuff for the kids.

Keiper said, “It’s been here 100 years and it’s important to have community, know your neighbors and give back.”

Keiper’s 92 year old grandfather Homer Argot reminisced about having church Christmas parties at the community center, celebrating Halloween and making homemade ice cream there.

From young to old everyone enjoyed an opportunity to see Santa, make crafts, eat some sweets, be merry and most importantly, enjoy a sense of community.

Alex and Joshua Ziccardi with Eliana, 1, Jackson, 2, and Sienna, 5.

Santa with Cassie Ryno, age 9 and Madi Ryno, 4.

PAGE 6 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023

Clymer

White Haven brought her two grandchildren to the event.

Twelve year-old Destiny

Continued from page 1 songs encouraging the crowd to sing along to “Joy to the World” and “Deck the Halls.”

10 year-old Finnegan Courtney, grandma Colleen Abriel and 8 year-old Fenton Courtney enjoy hot chocolate Rachel Schickling, a Tobyhanna Township Supervisor, noted, “The library is the center of our community.”

Barbara Williams from

Benjamin Henning, age 5, excited that “Santa is going to be here.”

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6 month old Aiden Volpe and mother Amanda from Pocono Pines.

See CLYMER, page 7

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023 — PAGE 7

Clymer

Continued from page 6 Williams and 9 year old Shaun Williams often go to the library to take out books.

Destiny loves the “Warriors” series about a cat living in the forest, while Shaun reads about “a dog with a basket that gets groceries.”

Library director Melissa Lopez, who has worked at Clymer for 14 years, stated, “We are blessed to have such an awesome community and staff.”

The Pocono Mountain West Show Choir

12 year old Destiny Williams, 9 year old Shaun Williams with grandmother Barbara Williams

Hot chocolate and cookies were served inside the community room. Children had the opportunity to visit with both Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

A raffle was held for students of Tobyhanna Elementary Center, who were given the raffle tickets at school to encourage participation in the tree lighting ceremony.

Inside, the choir continued with “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” The crowd was encouraged to sing along and use hand movements for each day.

Thanks were given to the Tunkhannock Township Fire Company and Pocono Summit Fire Company for their assistance with the event.

Ruby Mirkin, age 4, a bit shy to see Santa

The crowd gets a little shelter from the rain prior to the tree lighting

PAGE 8 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023

PMSB reorganizes, hears musical presentation

by Pat Albano On December 6, the Honorable Judge Jonathan Mark swore in new and returning board members at the Pocono Mountain School Board’s reorganization meeting.

Marion Pyzik was reelected board president, and Nathan Strunk vicepresident.

Patricia Rinehimer was named representative to the MCTI Joint Operating Committee.

Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Robison discussed student and

Ice Harvest planned The Millpond #1 Ice Harvest will be held on Saturday, January 27, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

The event will be held at 2071 Lakeside Drive, Tobyhanna, and is open to the public.

Follow the Ice Harvest Event on Facebook “Tobyhanna Ice Harvest”.

For updates please call 570.894.8205 or email questions to bleonard@ verizon.net .

staff accomplishments. On November 16 the district held a “Night of Honor,” listing various disciplines in math, art, and science.

Robison honored school director Strunk for completing a Director of Leader Administration course adding, “Strunk was selected to attend a study group in Germany to study its education system.”

Chief financial officer and board secretary Joseph Colozza gave updates stating, “The auditors will be here next week to present an audit report.” He updated capital improvements and added, “the 24-25 fiscal year budget is in the process of being compiled.”

Dr. Catherine Sweeny, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, introduced the West High School band who performed for Board members (shown at right). Sweeny noted, “students who participate in music opportunities, clubs and after-school activities

do better in school. Music is important for student education and mental health.”

Vince D’Angelo, service account manager for Andreas

Plumbing discussed a proposal to repair a 1985 water heater oil leak, and the cost of $25,000-$30,000 for parts and repairs that may not correct the problem.

After lengthy discussion on several options to replace the heater, the board decided on an alternate bid of $195,400 subject to legal review.

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THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023 — PAGE 9

Seth’s Sightings We were able to pry loose some free time and used it for a dash to the Green Valley Book Fair in Virginia.

We were getting each other some holiday gifts. The GVBF offers a wide variety of books at up to 80% off.

We timed our arrival at the GVBF so that the Book Fair’s event with Santa Claus that morning would be clear. We left with four bags brimming with books, mainly mysteries and sci fi.

While down there we were able to meet with a friend and had a nice lunch. We also enjoyed some driving off the interstate, discovering some nooks and crannies of

the Shenandoah Valley.

Our plan to extend our trip was foiled by this past Sunday’s storm, but our decision to head home early to avoid the promised heavy rain led to the discovery of a fine classic German restaurant in downtown Hagerstown, Maryland: Schmankerl Stube Bavarian Restaurant. There, we feasted before returning to our drive home. On the drive, we bought gas at $2.93.9 in Virginia.

We arrived home just after midnight and turned in for sleep just as the rain started to turn to sleet. Sunday’s storm brought snow to

by Seth Isenberg

Hazleton, Tobyhanna, Mt. Pocono, and the Blakeslee area. The snow, along with Christmas lighting, added a special beauty to the Pocono Plateau.

In football, Sunday was another bad day for the Eagles…and also for the Steelers, who lost to the Patriots. The Patriots’ win didn’t stop them from being eliminated from the playoffs. The Eagles can win out and still get a shot at the Super Bowl, but they have to get their offence in gear again.

Penn State football gets a plum bowl assignment to the Chick-Fil-A Peach

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Bowl versus Ole Miss — PSU ranked 10 to Ole Miss at 11.

It’s in Atlanta on December 30 at noon, and should be a fine game. Other bowl games will fill our TV screens from this weekend on (go Liberty, and go James Madison U.) including the Cricket, Avocadoes From Mexico, Famous Toastery, Duke’s Mayo, Wasabi and Pop-Tarts Bowls.

The local Penguins return home this Saturday to host the Rochester Americans.

This should be a good game as the locals have started to find their offence. The team then hits the road until the 29th and 30th when the Charlotte Checkers come here to play back-to-back games. Also keep January 6 and 7 open for Lehigh Valley Phantoms and Hartford Wolfpack contests. There are plenty of good seats available.

Sightings this week have been mainly wet deer. I know it’s still hunting season but I don’t think getting one by car doesn’t count. So far, our Kia has been hit by a deer at about 35 mph (tore off some trim but otherwise o.k.)… and we think the deer just

bounced off and ran away.

As we drove through Virginia, we sighted loads of calves at the farms we passed.

We are driving to Philadelphia this weekend to enjoy lunch with friends, but otherwise are keeping local — maybe even finishing up some raking and do gutter cleaning if I can get help.

Maybe another trip for more Stayman Winesap apples before Heckman’s closes for the winter.

On another positive note… a local radio station has rediscovered Snoopy and the Red Baron Christmas (Christmas Bells O Christmas Bells, ringing through the night, bringing peace to all the land…) Amen to this and enjoy the tune.

Chanukah wrapped up on Friday, leaving us readying for Christmas parties and family gatherings while looking ahead to New Year’s celebrations.

Thanks to the change of weather all our local ski areas are open as of Friday so ‘Welcome Skiers.’

For all of us, a wish of healthy holiday weeks and… snow shovels at the ready.

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PAGE 10 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023

Police Beat 11-16, PA State PoliceFern Ridge had a walk-in at HQ in Blakeslee of an Albrightsville father and his teenaged daughter. She was being harassed via Instagram by two unknown accounts.

Interviews conducted at the Jim Thorpe High School found a student there who admitted to operating the accounts. The victim’s family chose not to file criminal charges unless this happens again.

11-19, 8:13 p.m., PSP-F was called to a Mountain Road, Albrightsville home due to a domestic disturbance where the 50 y/o man made terroristic threats. He was arrested and will face the District Judge. Separately, he is also charged with

by Seth Isenberg

endangering the welfare of children.

11-26, 3:30 p.m., an unknown trucker drove off from the ONVO in East Side without paying for over $700 in fuel. PSP-F in investigating.

12-1, 12:32 p.m., PSP-F was called to a three-car crash on Route 115 near Evergreen Hollow Road. An 18 y/o driver following too closely hit the car ahead of him when it stopped for a turning vehicle. The crash pushed the car ahead of him into the turning vehicle.

There were no injuries, just bent fenders. The 18 y/o was ticketed.

12-2, 10:45 p.m., a Kentucky driver had his Freightliner drift off

HELP US RAISE FUNDS TO SUPPORT POCONO MOUNTAIN REGIONAL POLICE

2023

down a steep embankment in the median. First responders found him deceased.

These weeks have plenty of fender-bender and rearender accidents, DUIs, and some assaults/ harassments.

There were also reports of a dog bite, and a business with multiple false alarms.

PA State Police would like the public to know that no one is going to call you and ask for funds to fix your computer or pay for crimes committed against you.

Contact your local police or State Police for questions or reports concerning fraud.

Penn-DOT news Crews continue crack sealing and pothole repairs in between winter weather.

,

Milling, drainage and paving work on the Turnpike in Carbon County and Luzerne Counties continues until the asphalt plants close, working both day and night.

Traffic will be restricted to a single lane… drive with caution — there are lots of workers on the roads with this project.

Two huge cranes are making slow progress in moving large metal frames into place to support pieces of the new span of the Turnpike across the Lehigh River.

Plow drivers, seasonal winter staff and year-round jobs are open at PennDOT. Go to PennDOT.gov and locate Job Opportunities.

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Interstate 80 in Tobyhanna Township and it ended up plowing through a road sign before stopping in the woods. He was not hurt. PSP issued him a ticket.

12-5, 3:29 p.m., an Indian Mountain Lakes, Albrightsville woman opened a package and was exposed to a white substance to which she was having a reaction. PSP and local fire and ambulance responded.

PSP sent a Clandestine Lab team member. Responders stabilized the woman, and determined that no hazard existed.

12-5, 8:16 p.m., Charles Manfre, 71, of the WilkesBarre area died when his ’21 Lexus went off Interstate 80 west in Kidder Township and

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THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023 — PAGE 11

Big Boulder to open for season Big Boulder Resort will open for the 2023/24 winter season at 3 p.m. Friday, December 15.

In celebration of Opening Day, a traditional banner break will be held, there will be a DJ, and free walking

tacos for the first 150 people.

Big Boulder’s anticipated Opening Weekend terrain is Edelweiss, Tannenbaum, Little Boulder, Carbon Way, Coal Chute, Merry Widow, and the Ski School Beginner Area for lessons. Skiing and

riding will be serviced by Harmony and Blue Heron.

Skiers and snowboarders at Jack Frost and Big Boulder (JFBB) resorts will continue to enjoy improved terrain accessibility, reduced wait times, and more reliable

lift service thanks to last year’s Epic Lift Upgrades.

The replacement and consolidation of five lifts between Jack Frost and Big Boulder with fixed-grip four-person chairs greatly increased uphill capacity and access to multiple slopes throughout the mountains.

At Jack Frost, the Pocono, the Tobyhanna, and the Paradise replaced the B & C lifts, the E & F lifts, and the East 1 and 2 doubles. At Big Boulder, the Blue Heron and the Harmony replaced the Merry Widow 1 and 2 doubles and the Edelweiss Triple.

Coming soon is an updated bubly Tubing Park at Big Boulder. Additional improvements include new

trail signage.

Big Boulder is planning a full roster of events this year: Slope Days after school ski school, and après ski scene and dining experiences including a new Taqueria featuring fresh Mexican and South American flavors.

Regular Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 3-8 p.m.

Saturdays, Sundays, and Holiday Mondays: 8:30 a.m.8 p.m.

Holidays (Including holiday Mondays and the week of 12/26-1/1): 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Big Boulder is closed 12/24.

Big Boulder is open 12/25, 12-8 p.m.

Molly J. Rosario of Tobyhanna was among the

34 University of Scranton students who studied abroad during the Summer 2023 semester. Rosario, majoring in kinesiology at Scranton, participated in the university travel course, Sports and Physical Culture in Athens, Greece.

The University of Scranton is a Jesuit university located in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Rosario participates in Uof S Study Abroad Program

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PAGE 12 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023

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THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023 — PAGE 13 Miscellaneous

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PAGE 14 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023

Obituaries ABNER COOMBE

Abner Coombe, 89 of St. Petersburg, FL, also a long time resident of Pocono Lake passed away on November 28, 2023.

He was born on June 27, 1934.

He was one of the first masons in the Pocono Lake area.

He served on the USS New Jersey during the Korean War. Abner is survived by his wife Jahn Coombe, of St. Petersburg FL; his daughter Emma Jo Argot of Pocono Lake; his son Tod Coombe of Pocono Lake; seven grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.

MARIE R. BENNER

Marie R. (Clayton) Benner, 95, of Blakeslee, died Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at Geisinger Hospital – Wilkes Barre.

Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late John Clayton and Margaret (Tesche) Clayton.

Marie was emphatically devoted to the Catholic Faith followed by her strong commitment to the strength of her marriage. She always loved, guided, encouraged and protected her children equally.

Marie adored her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. She was so proud of them and let them know often.

Growing up in South Philadelphia, Marie had a love for the Mummer’s String Bands and would break out dancing the mummer’s strut whenever she heard “Oh Dem Golden Slippers” being played.

Camping in Columbia County and strolling through Knoebels Amusement Park were things she enjoyed for many years.

Marie is survived by her children: Margaret Mary Argot and her husband,

Mark of Pocono Lake; Michael J. Benner and wife Elizabeth of Blakeslee; Kathleen Benner of Blakeslee; John S. Benner of Blakeslee; and Carolyn Gueiss and her husband, Marvin of Blakeslee; daughter-in-law, Barbara Benner of Summerville SC; ten grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and siblings, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, Joseph M. Benner, and son, Joseph J. Benner.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held December 5 at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Pocono Pines. Interment followed at Pocono Lake Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, PO Box O, Pocono Pines, Pa 18350, or the Ronald McDonald House of Danville, 24 Trembulak Way, Danville, Pa 17821.

Marie’s funeral arrangements were entrusted to Bolock Funeral Home Crematory.

GLORIA CAROL LUTZ Gloria Carol Lutz, 80, of Pocono Summit passed away on Sunday, December 4, 2023. Born in East Stroudsburg, she was the daughter of the late Stanley and Ruth Anne (Miller) Oney.

Gloria worked for Mt. Airy Resort and Camelback Resort where she touched the lives of many and met many lifelong friends.

She was the true matriarch of her family, who never let anyone leave hungry or without a pickle, which was known to cure anything. Gloria enjoyed Rod Stewart, Pepsi and sporting her housecoat.

Above all, Gloria was a devoted mother, grandmother and friend to many, who possessed a true heart of gold.

Gloria will be lovingly remembered by her son, Alfred Lutz and his wife Deiatra; daughter, Sheri Stanley and her husband Raymond; grandchildren, Kyle Brown and his wife

Dana, Tahnee Brown, Brooke Larson, Jesse Lutz, Madison Lutz and Samuel Lutz;-great grandchildren, Dimitri Brown, Kameryn Reyes, Keiran Reyes and Liam Brown; many beloved and cherished nieces and nephews, as well as many grandchildren and extended family members of her heart and choice.

Gloria is preceded in death by her daughter, Teri Lutz; brothers, Ron Oney, Sonny Oney and Jerry Oney, and sister, Annie Lowe and her husband Ed. A funeral service tool place December 10, in the Bolock Funeral Home, 6148 Paradise Valley Road, Cresco. Interment tool place December 11 at Keokee Chapel Cemetery of Cresco.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Obituaries SHIRLEY R. BORGER

Shirley R. Borger, 85, of Kunkletown, passed away Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at Pleasant Valley Manor, Stroudsburg.

She was the loving wife of Albert C. Borger. They celebrated 62 wonderful years of marriage together in April of this year.

Born in Palmerton, she was the daughter of the late Stanley P. Serfass and the late Orpha (Smale) Serfass.

Shirley was a devout and active member of St. Matthew’s UCC in Kunkletown and served on the Laymen’s Fellowship for many years. She loved baking and cooking, and was always willing to help others in need. Most of all, she was a kind-hearted, loving, and caring, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, motherin-law, and friend. She will

Schedule

Saturdays – Confession 3 p.m. with Mass at 4 p.m.

Sundays – Mass at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Daily Mass – 9:15 a.m.

(Monday – Friday

be deeply missed by all her friends and family.

In addition to her husband, Albert, she is survived by a son, Chris Borger and his companion Leslie Borger-Baron; a daughter, Debra Kemmerer and her companion Walter Honshiko; a sister, Clara Butz and her husband Larry; six grandchildren, Desiree and her husband Eric, Dylon and his wife Jamie, Dickson and his wife Nicole, Brittany and her husband Mike, Chad, Mackenzie; five great grandchildren, Matthew, Ava, Jaxon, Emma, Branch; and a daughter-in-law, Pam Borger. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by a son, Dean L. Borger, and two brothers, Lee and Roy Serfass.

No services are scheduled at this time. Cremation will take place in H.G. Smith Crematory, Stroudsburg. The Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209, Brodheadsville, is in charge of the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Matthew’s United Church of Christ, 102 Church Road, Kunkletown, PA 18058. www.kresgefuneralhome. com

Chirstmas Bazzr Vendors

THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023 — PAGE 15

Local students lead Albright organizations Albright College’s inclusive living-learning community includes more than 70 student groups, honor societies, clubs, Greek life and a variety of affinity houses -- all offering opportunities for leadership and service. Local studentleaders holding positions within the college’s clubs and organizations for 2023

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

Very Rev. Michael Salnicky, Pastor DIVINE LITURGY (MASS)

For Mass Times Call

(570) 839-8090 For Parish Office Call (570) 595-3265

include: Stephanie Brown of Tobyhanna has been named Secretary of the Student Members of American Chemical Society at Albright College. A graduate of Pocono Mountain West High School, Brown is studying

Biochemistry at the college.

Aaliyah Rojas of Albrightsville has been named Treasurer of the Domino Players at Albright College. A graduate of Pocono Mountain West High School, Rojas is studying Theatre at the college.

Puzzle Answers

PAGE 16 — THE JOURNAL OF THE POCONO PLATEAU, MID-DECEMBER, 2023

Tunkhannock Township grants provisional use for truck repair & wash facility

by Lori R. Cooper

Prior to the December Tunkhannock Township Board of Supervisors meeting the hearing for a decision about conditional use for the proposed truck parking, repair and wash was announced. The property is owned by PGS Realty and is located at 4110 Route 115.

Solicitor Harry Coleman explained that this stage is a conditional use approval, not land approval, and they must “look at the proposal within the ordinance, unless there is an objector that demonstrates that it is a detriment to the health safety and welfare of the community.”

Conditional use was granted subject to removing 20 parking spaces, leaving a total of 50. Another condition is that 10 of the 50 are designated for truck repair parking and the parking spaces are surrounded by an 8-foot fence. The last condition was that there is a fence around the entire property that is 8 feet high and chain-link with plastic privacy slats.

Once the meeting began it was noted that there was an executive session on December 6 for legal reasons. The end of the year meeting will be held on December 27 at 9 a.m.

Announcements included the availability of “TextMyGov” and the Township Facebook page is Tunkhannocktwpmonroe.

Other announcements included that two more auditors are needed. Those interested should submit

a letter of interest, résumé and must have lived in the Township for one year and be a registered voter.

Applicants must submit by December 20. Appointment of the auditors will occur at the January 2 reorganization meeting at 9 a.m.

On December 18 at 1:15 p.m. a hearing will be held in the Monroe County Court of Common Pleas to look at splitting Tunkhannock Township into two election districts.

In other business: The 2024 budget and PMR Police resolution and amendment were approved.

Two companies were proposed for the CPA appointment. France Anderson Basile Co PC was approved at a cost of $5,500.

The Clymer Library was given a donation of $10,000.

Tunkhannock Twp.Vol.Fire Co. received an $18,000 donation.

Act 167 Stormwater Ordinance continues to be reviewed.

The PMR EMA reported that they will be meeting with all member communities for skill training. They had 32 calls in November their call volume is up. There was one new hire for the ambulance.

PMR Police reported 120 calls in a busy month.

The department has been approved to have “beard November/December” in honor of a fellow officer whose stepson died in a tragic accident. Money is being donated in his name that will allow the department to take care of K-9s and buy special

equipment. It was noted that “the citizens of Monroe County have been wonderful and generous.”

Clymer Library thanked the Township for their generous donation. The holiday tree lighting was a great success. The library’s holiday boutique will be open until December 20.

During public comments,

Vince Volz asked about ownership of Winter Lane which may be used as an access road for the proposed truck/car wash/parking facility. Atty. Coleman is looking at the deeds will investigate further. Volz reiterated that he has been taking care of the street since 1990 and has a right-of-way.