VOL. 31, NO. 6
Lake News
June-July 2025
©2025, Lake News. All rights reserved. A CANWIN publication
Ruth Isenberg, Editor
Seth Isenberg, Ads / Distribution Publishers
(Continuing the work of founders Frank Pieri and Mary Farnschlader, 1995 – 2018)
Lake News is published monthly for the enjoyment of Lake Harmony area residents and visitors. Copies are free and are mailed to Lake Harmony box holders. Find additional copies at The Country Peddler and at selected area businesses.
Subscriptions are also available, for $15 as a PDF via e-mail. Mail your check to CANWIN at 211 Main St., White Haven PA 18661.
E-mail us at lakenewslakeharmony@gmail.com
Call us at 570-215-0204, Seth x1 and Ruth x2
To submit an article or photo, use the above e-mail, or give us a call. Articles may be accepted or rejected. If accepted, they will be edited. Submitted items can be returned by arrangement. Articles appearing in Lake News may not be reprinted without permission of Lake News or CANWIN newspapers. Mailing address is 211 Main St., White Haven PA 18661.
LOCAL CONTACT INFORMATION
Kidder Township Office 570 722-0107
Kidder Township Police (non-emergency #) 570 722-0192
Lake Harmony Vol. Fire Co. (non-emergency #) 570 722-8138
Lake Harmony Rescue Squad (non-emergency #) 570 722-1782
For emergencies, call 911. If you do not live in an area served by 911, call 570 325-9111.
KIDDER TOWNSHIP MEETINGS
Kidder Township Supervisor meetings are held the fourth Thursday of each month at the township building, and unless otherwise noted, begin at 6:00 PM. Notices of special meetings are posted at the township building and advertised. Planning meetings are held the 1st Wednesday at 6 PM; Zoning meetings, the last Monday at 6 PM; EAC, the second Wednesday at 7 PM. The public is welcome.
This Month’s Cover
The Strawberry Moon is what the Native Americans named the full moon in June. Lou Cleary captured the full moon as it rose over Boulder Lake, casting a beautiful orange-pink glow.
If you have a picture of life at The Lake that you would like to share, please send it to: lakenewslakeharmony@gmail.com with some information about where and when the picture was taken, plus a few details about yourself. Caution very low resolution photos may look fine on your phone, but they need to be a higher resolution to print.
Entertainment Around Lake Harmony
At Shenanigans Events at shenaniganslh.com
Karaoke, DJs and Dancing in Boomers Night Club Fri. & Sat. 9 p.m. -1 a.m.
At Nick’s Lake House
(All 5-9 p.m. except as noted)
July 11 Who Knows Band
July 12 Group d’Jour
July 13 The Magic All Stars (4-8 p.m.)
July 18 Project 22
July 19 CC Music
July 20 Bikini Brothers (4-8 p.m.)
July 25 Teacher & Poet Band
July 26 Friends of Rodger
July 27 Double Sht Duo (4-8 p.m.)
August 1 Group D’Jour
August 2 CC Music
August 3 Timmy Fitz Duo (4-8 p.m.)
August 8 Flaxxy Morgan
August 9 Boots and Bangs
August 10 Parade of Boats Mystery City (2-6 p.m.)
August 15 Fuzzy Park
At Boulder View Tavern (All 6-9 p.m. except as noted)
July 10 —Erin McClelland
July 11 Bobby Ventura
July 12 Erin McClelland
July 17 Tim Harakal
July 18 Erin McClelland
July 19 Sol Katana
July 24 Hannah Noel
July 25 John Simoson
July 26 Timmy Fitz & Mark Nourik
July 31 Erin McClelland
For more dates, www.boulderviewtavern.com/ events
At The Pub @ the hub
Music Friday and Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m.
July 11 Sol Katana
July 12 Andrew Moses
July 18 Tim Fitzpatrick
July 19 John Simoson
July 25 Brian Smith
July 26 Nina Peterson
August 1 Friends of Roger
See ENTERTAINMENT, page 18
Dear Deer
by Mark Peterson
You can see them lurking in the woods, peering at you through the foliage. I have seen them by the roadside, waiting to jump out at me. Sometimes they are there when I open the door of my house to go outside. Trotting up to me, they beseech me for a treat perhaps a carrot, maybe a potato chip or even a slice of bread if that’s what’s handy. They are the four-legged, doe-eyed beggars known as white-tailed deer and they are everywhere.
Over time the deer in our area have lost their fear of humans. This is due to well-meaning people feeding them. Unfortunately, this is causing more harm than good. Feeding the deer tends to concentrate large numbers of them in areas that would not normally sustain them. As browsers, dear normally feed on woody vegetation. Large concentrations of deer lead to over browsing which in turn causes habitat damage and loss of biodiversity. It is easy to see how the deer have over browsed the forest around Lake Harmony when compared to areas with more naturally occurring
deer populations, like Hickory Run State Park. Feeding deer can also create digestive problems for them. Depending on the season, deer naturally adapt their digestive system to process different types of food. In the spring they typically go for tender new leaves and buds. In the summer they will add berries, flowers and crops to their diet. (Good luck trying to grow a garden around here!) In autumn, they will eat nuts and fruit that have fallen from trees, and in the winter, they survive
Dear deer
Continued from page 6
on twigs and buds from certain trees, evergreen leaves, and dried leaves from the fall. Feeding deer corn in the winter might seem like a kindness, but it could cause severe problems and might even lead to death since their gut microbes aren’t seasonally adapted for it.
Having large concentrations of deer in one area also poses health risks for deer as well as humans. Deer become more susceptible to diseases such as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and bovine tuberculosis. They also carry ticks and can have as many as 100 in each ear. Fortunately, studies have shown that deer are not carriers of Lyme Disease, but who wants to be bitten by a tick? Another issue involves collisions with cars on the roads. With more deer, there is a greater chance that one could leap across the road as you’re driving along.
Nearly everyone loves these beautiful creatures. From the dappled fawns in the spring and early summer to the majestic bucks in the fall, the temptation to interact with them is great but don’t. Deer are wild animals who are doing fine without our help. For more information on deer and other wildlife in our area, contact the Kidder
Township Environmental Advisory Council at (570) 722-8179, or pick up their brochure at the Kidder Township Municipal Building.
Now, if you are looking for information on bicycles or skis, the place to go for that is Peterson’s Ski and Cycle in Blakeslee. Eric and the team can help you with just about anything ski or cycle related, from equipment to rentals to service. They also have fun Pocono Mountain souvenirs, toys for the kids, cool t-shirts, hoodies, blankets and more. Stop in and say hello or visit us online at www.petersonsskiandcycle.com. We hope to “ski” you soon!
Experience the Pocono History & Art Trail
Download the free mobile passport
With this July 4th celebration, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and numerous events are planned to celebrate the United States’ Semiquincentennial. Now, you can get a lesson in American history with the Pocono History & Art Trail. The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB) has launched the free Pocono History & Art Trail to highlight the unique historical sites throughout the four counties of the Pocono Mountains.
The free mobile passport is a way for visitors to connect with the past in a new and exciting way and includes exclusive audio clips highlighting the people and places that have made the region what it is and left a mark on American history. Sign up for the passport at PoconoHistoryTrail. com and users can check off numerous historical sites all over the Pocono Mountains. From the Wayne County Historical Society and Museum in Honesdale to the Asa Packer Mansion Museum in Jim Thorpe and dozens of stops in between.
“The Pocono Mountains is home to some of the most interesting stories of the past that everyone
who lives here or visits the Poconos should experience,” said Chris Barrett, President/CEO of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. “The free mobile passport gives visitors to the region a chance to experience some of the great historical sites that we have to offer in a whole new way.”
With so much history in the Poconos, there is now one trail that brings all the museums and historical attractions together on the Pocono History & Art Trail. Watch a recent segment on Pocono Mountains Magazine highlighting the Dorflinger Factory Museum in White Mills, one of the stops on the Pocono History & Art Trail. And watch for a new segment on the July Pocono Mountains Magazine featuring Grey Towers National Historic Site and the new trail.
Start your trail adventure through Poconos history with small town museums which represent notable moments in Pennsylvania history. Admission prices vary at different stops along the Pocono History & Art Trail. Check with each location’s respective website for hours and admission.
Locally grown means delicious — find out for yourself with farm market visits
Finding local food, especially fruits and vegetable, can be an adventure. It’s fun to see where food comes from, and often to meet the men and women who grow it or turn it into delectable dinners and treats.
There are several farm markets and working farms close by Lake Harmony. Take a short ride and come back all kinds of locally grown or made treats.
Pocono Organics
Pocono Organics is one of the largest Regenerative Organic Certified Farms in North America. In partnership with Rodale Institute, Pocono Organics’ efforts focus on regenerative, sustainable, and organic requirements. Pocono Organics is a USDA Certified Organic Farm and soon will be Regenerative Organic Certified.
Guests can enjoy produce year-round in the Organic Farm Market and Cafe, where Chopped Champion Chef Lindsay McClain prepares farmfresh food and shares delicious recipes with produce from the farm’s 38,000-square-feet,
35-foot-tall greenhouses and over 380+ acres of farmland — all powered by a 25-acre solar farm and irrigated with reclaimed rainwater.
Seasonal events, workshops, and retreats make Pocono Organics an agritourism destination. Learn about how regenerative organics is shaping the future of agriculture. Pocono Organics offers tours around the greenhouse facilities.
Open Thursday through Monday. Cafe: Thursday, Sunday and Monday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Organic Market: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. plus Fridays and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
1015 Long Pond Road, Long Pond (across from Pocono Raceway)
Poconoorganics.com
Hanna’s Farm Market
Hanna’s Farm Market is a family owned and operated, full-service farm market. Stop by to browse a large variety of locally-sourced foods
See FARM MARKETS, page 11
Farm Markets
Continued from page 10
and in-season produce.
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 811 Stoney Hollow Road, Pocono Lake, PA 18347 (570) 442-7045
https://www.facebook.com/p/HannasFarm-Market-100063672154917/
Heckman Orchards
Heckman Orchards, located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, has been continuously operated since its establishment in 1962 by the Heckman Family. On our farm, we produce a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as Christmas trees and flowers. Berries, herbs, honey, syrup, jam, ornamental and bedding plants, fruits, vegetables, pumpkins, and Christmas trees are available on-site and at the farm market seasonally.
Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
3009 Route 115Effort, PA 18330 (570) 629-1191
Heckmanorchards.com
Quiet Valley Living History Farm
This last entry isn’t a place to buy produce, but it is a great place to learn about not only where food comes from, but also how our ancestors farmed. It’s farther away than the other destinations, but makes for a fun afternoon, especially during one of the many special events held throughout the season.
History comes alive as period-dressed “family” members share their daily routine of chores and crafts on a 19th century Pennsylvania German farmstead.
Quiet Valley is open to the general public for tours from the third Saturday in June through Labor Day plus extra spring and fall Saturdays with period-dressed “family” members reenacting the life of the original Pennsylvania German family who lived on the farm from the 1760s to 1913.
347 Quiet Valley RoadStroudsburg, PA 18360 (570) 992-6161
Quietvalley.org
Boating safety is key to water sports recreation
With nearly 12 million recreational vessels registered in the U.S., millions of Americans are enjoying time on and in the water.
Every year, thousands of boating incidents reported to the U.S. Coast Guard include thousands of injuries, hundreds of deaths and millions of dollars in property damage. Stay safe by being prepared and using the appropriate equipment, whether enjoying a ride on a motorized boat, paddling a kayak or wakeboarding.
Life Jackets Are Essential
Life jackets are at the core of safe boating, whether using a motorized or non-motorized vessel. The U.S. Coast Guard reports 81% of boating deaths in 2021 were due to drowning, and 83% of the victims were not wearing a life jacket.
While regulations on life jacket use vary from state to state, the Wear It program of the National Safe Boating Council promotes boating safety by encouraging boaters to wear life jackets any time they are on a boat, motorized or non-motorized.
Good swimmers still need life jackets. When people fall off a boat, they may become disoriented, injured or unconscious. Life jackets can keep victims’ heads above water so they can breathe and be rescued more easily. Every child should wear a life jacket at all times when boating. Choose the right life jacket for the activities you will be doing. Double check to make sure the life jackets are U.S. Coast Guard approved and fit correctly:
● Make sure the jacket is a proper fit for your size and weight
● Make sure the jacket is properly fastened
● Hold your arms straight up over your head, ask a friend to grasp the tops of the arm openings and gently pull up; make sure there is no excess room above the openings and that the jacket does not ride up over your chin or face
Get Educated, Reduce Risks
The National Safe Boating Council encourages following these boating safety tips to minimize risks:
● Take a National Association of Boating Law Administrators safety course
● Be familiar with the boating state laws
● Know the “Rules of the Road”
● When operating a motorized boat, know about carbon monoxide; this odorless, colorless poisonous gas is emitted by all combustion engines and onboard motor generators
Be Prepared
Before setting out:
● Check that your equipment is in good working order; get a free vessel safety check with your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadron
● Review a pre-departure checklist to ensure you
See BOATING SAFETY, page 14
Boating Safety
Continued from page 12
have everything you need in your boat, including a tool kit and first-aid kit
● Before you leave, always file a float plan with someone you trust
● Dress properly and bring an extra set of clothes in case you get wet
● Don’t forget the sunscreen and know the signs of heat illnesses
Exercise Good Judgment
● Respect your limits and keep within your limits to avoid injury
● Don’t drink and drive a boat; alcohol affects judgment, vision, balance and coordination
● Once on the water, use common sense; in a split second, a situation can arise or the weather can turn
● If you notice storm clouds, a sudden temperature drop or wind speed increasing, play it safe and get off the water
Safety Tips for Water Skiers, Tubers and Wakeboarders
Skiing, tubing and wakeboarding are popular water sports, but they also can be dangerous with participants traveling at high speeds. Remember to take the following steps to minimize the risks:
● Learn how to get up out of the water and how to safely use the tow rope
● Always have a spotter in the boat, and go over basic hand signals
● Make certain the towline is not caught in the propeller or wrapped around you prior to beginning
● Wait for the propeller to stop before getting back on the boat
● Enjoy these activities during daylight hours only
Jam Below the Dam brings music, fun to nearby White Haven
by Ruth Isenberg
The Greater White Haven Chamber of Commerce is getting ready to celebrate preparing for the return of the Jam Below the Dam on Main Street in White Haven. Just over a month from now, Friday and Saturday, July 25 and 26, the free event will fill Main Street with music, food, vendors and events.
There will be two main music stages, one by NAPA Auto Parts and one by the Firemen’s Social Club, featuring three bands on Friday and five bands on Saturday, as well as music and activities for kids, a magician and a balloon artist, at the Railyard Park at the White Haven Area Community Library. Also at the Railyard Park, River Run Healing Arts will host Yoga in the Park at 10 a.m. on Saturday.
The Antonio’s Pizza Eating Contest is returning after its debut last summer, and will be joined by a Hotdog Eating Contest sponsored by Renées Cold Cut Hut. If you want to compete, register at Antonio’s or Renées.
Parking won’t be a problem, because a shuttle service will run from the Park & Ride, and from Linesville Park.
Jam Below the Dam merchandise is available in advance, by visiting jamwh.bigcartel.com. All purchases will help make this event possible. Items range from stickers to hoodies and hats, and much more.
Hours are 4-8 p.m. on Friday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. To find out about the bands and a full schedule, visit www.JamBelowtheDam.com
Entertainment
If you love music,you won’t want to be anywhere other than Main Street in White Haven, where the Jam Below the Dam will showcase music for all tastes on two stages (plus special kid-oriented music and activities in the Railroad Park at the library). Many of the entertainers will be familiar to those who pay attention to the Lake Harmony music scene.
See JAM BELOW THE DAM, page 22
Entertainment Around Lake Harmony
At The Pub @ the hub
Music Friday and Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m.
August 2 Hannah Noel
August 8 Justin Skylar
August 9 Andrew Moses
At Sandbar, Split Rock
In case of inclement weather, moved to Rock Lounge at main hotel. Music 4-8 unless noted
July 12 Teacher & the Poet
July 19 Who Knows
July 26 Justin Skyler Band
August 2 Toga Band
August 9 Jamz Dee DJ
August 16 All That Glitters
August 23 Totally Taboo
August 30 Toga Band
August 31 Kartune (6-10)
At Pocono Raceway poconoraceway.com
July 12 Clean Culture Automotive Event www.cleancultureevents.com/tickets
July 20 Pocono Mountain Harley Davidson Motorcycle Ride, benefits Valor Clinic Foundation www.poconohd.com/eventscalendar-harley-davidson-dealership–xcalendar
August 8-10 Elements Music & Arts Festival www.elementsfest.us/
August 16 MPact Motorsports Festival www.mpacteast.com/
At Holy Ghost Distillery & Tasting House on Route 940
Tours, tasting experiences, Firepit Fridays. Registration required for most events
July 12 Live music with John Simo, 2-5 p.m.
July 19 Charity Event for Murielle’s Place for Senior Pups, 6 p.m. More info, www.holyghostdistillery.com
Entertainment Around Lake Harmony
At Mauch Chunk Opera House mcohjt.com
July 11 & 12 Peace Frog - The Doors Tribute
July 13 The Original Psychic Stand-Up with Karen Rontowski
July 18 Nikki Hill
July 19 Alternative Fix - An electrifying tribute to the 90’s!
July 25 NYF New York’s Finest Tribute to THE POLICE
July 26 Bennie & The Jets - Tribute to Elton John
August 1 Dead Letter Office R.E.M. tribute
August 2 Jeffrey Gaines
August 8 Jamie McLean Band
August 9 The ELO Tribute Show
At Pennspeak.com
July 10 Summer Deck Party–Who Knows Band
July 11 Buddy Guy
July 12 Separate Ways the Band–The Journey tribute band
July 17 Buck Cherry
July 18 Thompson Square
July 24 Summer Deck Party–Hunkajunk
July 31
Summer Deck Party–Band of Brothers
August 1 Summer Deck Party–Nightwind
August 2 Summer Deck Party–Becky & the Beasts
August 7 Summer Deck Party–Friends of Rodger
August 8 Summer Deck Party–James Supra Band
At Split Rock Lodge, Harmony Room, 1 Lake Dr.
August 19 Sound Healing Journey, Ceibo Soundz from Costa Rica (7-8:30 p.m.)
August 20 Sound Healing Training Workshop, Ceibo Soundz from Costa Rica (6-9 p.m.)
At Mount Airy Casino Resort mountairycasino.com
July 12 Earth to Mars-The Bruno Mars Experience
August 16 Bruce in the USA
At F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts, Wilkes-Barre kirbycenter.org
August 24 Louis C.K.
Jam Below the Dam
Continued from page 16
Two stages will be set up, the NAPA Auto Stage at the south end of Main Street, and the Firemen’s Club Stage at the north end.
Friday kicks off at 4 p.m. at the NAPA stage, featuring:
Friends of Rodger
We are a trio (Tom, Eric and Scott) that plays a mix of pop/rock/alt hits from the 60s to now in the Pocono Plateau area. Rodger just happens to be Tom’s music loving dog that likes to hang out with us when we practice.
Who Knows
The Who Knows Band has deep roots in the Poconos. Enjoy timeless Rock, Country, and much more, on stage from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Meanwhile, one of the area’s most well-known and popular groups, North of 40, will entertain at the Firemen’s stage from 6-10 p.m.
Saturday
Opening up on Saturday on the NAPA Stage at 10 a.m. is
Sarah Keany
Sarah Keany is a 25-year-old singer-songwriter from Nazareth with a passion for music.
Afternoon music, from 2 to 5 p.m. on the NAPA Stage will feature:
Ian Kirk
Professional Musician/Artist with a blues/jazz/ rock background in multiple collaborations with artists around the northeastern Pennsylvania area, followed there from 6:30 to 9 by:
Subagroove
Subagroove is a cover band featuring pop and rock dance hits spanning 6 decades. Founded Summer of 2024, Subagroove is quickly rising to be the premier cover band of the Poconos.
On the Firemen’s Stage, opening act on Saturday sponsored by Chuck Stoffa and Trailtown Bikes, from 1-4 p.m., is:
Simo
John Simo from “A Pair of Nuts” and “The Mighty Three” has been a mainstay on the NEPA music scene for the past 25 years doing songs from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, alternative era to current artists like The Lumineers and Zach Bryan.
Closing out the Jam, from 6-10 p.m.:
The Blend
NEPA’s The Blend…giving you the ABSOLUTE biggest BLEND of music! Like Dance? Country? Rock? Pop? We do it all. You pick it, we play it!
Activities for All
On Friday, bring the kids to the Railyard Park
See JAM BELOW THE DAM, page 23
Jam Below the Dam
Continued from page 22
at the White Haven Area Community Library on Towanda Street for Mia McGlynn Story Reading: 4 p.m.-When You Give a Girl a Hammer; 5:30 p.m.-Bigger Diggers; 7 p.m.-Lou Can Too
Friday also kicks off Live Painting with Michelle Lee, from 5-7 p.m. with Layer 1: Energy of White Haven, a layer of all-out freedom, you’ll get the chance to splash, spray, make marks, words, symbols or patterns that express your love of White Haven. There will also be an option to color in creatures of the Lehigh on separate pieces of paper, for Michelle to use as collage elements later. Perfect for kids or anyone who wants another way to participate.
On Saturday at 10 a.m., River Run Healing Arts will host Yoga in the Park at the Railyard Park. Bring your own mat.
From 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Painting with Michelle Lee will feature Layer 2: HeART of the Town, the Lehigh River. Focused on painting into the sketch of the Lehigh River and foliage, you’ll use mini color palettes and Michelle’s guidance to start building up the beautiful scenery of our town. Creature coloring pages will also be available as
in the first session. Layer 2 will continue from 3-4 p.m. At 5:30 come back for Layer 3: SOULSHINE session. Watch Michelle start to refine the painting and collage with creatures that the public has created throughout the day. But wait! This is not the end…Painting Reveal at the September 17 White Haven Art Walk
Renée’s Cold Cut Hut will sponsor a Hot Dog Eating Contest from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. You’ll need to register in advance to participate $10 per person. Register at Renées on Main Street.
Nina Peterson will present Ninamusic, music for kids, at the Railyard Park from 12-12:45 p.m. There will be a Balloon Artist from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Railyard Park.
Mia McGlynn Story Reading will be back: 11:15 a.m.-Bigger Diggers; 12:15 p.m.-When You Give a Mom a Minute; 4:15 p.m.-Bigger Diggers; 5 p.m.-Lou Can Too; 6:30 p.m.-Alpha & Whiskey Gotcha Day
The Amazing Carson Magician will perform from 3-4 p.m. at the Railyard Park.
Hungry? The second annual Pizza Eating Contest hosted by Antonio’s Pizza, will reward the first to the finish—and going by last year, don’t be late, the finish was fast! Advance registration is required, $10 per person. Please register at Antonio’s Pizza in the White Haven Market Plaza.
Home Is Where Your Story Begins....
Whether it's a cozy cabin nestled in the woods or a modern retreat by the water's edge, each home has its own story to tell. Buying or selling, I'm your trusty guide to turn your real estate dreams into reality. Lets go find your new chapter!
Wedding at the lake adds to Panella lake family
Paulla Panella sent us this account of her daughter’s wedding earlier this year.
Sophia Panella got married at Lake Harmony on February 22 of this year to her now husband Matthew Hensel. Sophia is the granddaughter of the late Ray Panella (clown of the lake).
Sophia picked Lake Harmony not as a destination wedding but as her second home. There was no question where she wanted to get married here.
Artisan
Sophia picked February because her other love is snow. She spent summers on the lake and winters on the snow just like her grandfather.
The ceremony was at the beautiful St. Peter’s the Fisherman and the reception was at the Towncenter (Galleria ). Many Lake Harmony friends were there. They did a fabulous job! We couldn’t have done it without Kelly’s help!
Beautiful pictures were taken at The Split Rock. I am sharing my favorite one with you. We are so happy to have Matt as part of our lake family.
Matthew & Sophia celebrated their winter wedding at Lake Harmony’s Split Rock.
LHA working to improve Lake Harmony
The Lake Harmony Association (LHA) is a voluntary homeowners association for those homeowners with properties on and off of North and South Lake Drive, with the exception of owners of property solely within the private communities of Lake Harmony Estates and Split Rock, formed in 1929. The purposes of the Association are to improve Lake Harmony; to further civic improvements at Lake Harmony, and to promote cooperation among the property owners and generally to provide for the mutual assistance, benefit and enjoyment of Lake Harmony property owners.
Each owner of real property zoned as “residential” in Lake Harmony is eligible for membership in the association, with the exception of owners of property solely within the private communities of Lake Harmony Estates, Split Rock, Big Boulder and Ridgewood Estates.
The next meeting is July 20, at 10:30 a.m. in the Kidder Township meeting room.
The LHA Road Cleanup is planned for September 21.
In October, look for the annual Halloween Trick or Treating on October 25.
Shalom!
Are you planning a vacation in the Lake Harmony area this summer? Looking for Jewish services or support? We’re here to assist you!
Whether you need tefillin, Shabbat candles and challah, a mezuzah, or want to learn more about your Jewish roots—we’ve got you covered. We’ll be in the Lake Harmony area this summer and would be delighted to connect and help with anything you may need.
We also host weekly brunches, so feel free to reach out for details or to join!
For any needs—big or small—don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or text at 718-7643590.
Looking forward to connecting and supporting you on your Jewish journey.
Warm regards, Rabbi Eliyohu & Mushky Edelman
Local Native American group to hold Pow-Wow
The Native American organization, The Wyoming Trail Council of Pennsylvania’s Native Americans will be hosting a Pow – Wow on July 19 & 20, at Camp Rotawanis in Drums near the town of St. Johns. This event is open to the public and will run from 10 a.m. till TBD on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, with grand entry at Noon both days.
American Indians of many tribes will be representing their style of ancient and modern dance while wearing the beautiful regalia associated with the various dances and tribal customs. Grand entry begins with all dancers entering the dance arena led by flag bearers carrying the American flag, POW/MIA flags and Native American staffs and flags representing the different Indian nations and groups attending. Following the flags will be the head male and female dancer, who lead all the dancers.
The second dance of grand entry is a flag song with the purpose of saluting or honoring the flags, and the final song of grand entry is the veterans dance honoring all veterans of all races throughout all the conflicts in American history. At the start of this dance all veterans from the public are invited into the circle to be honored at this time.
At the conclusion of grand entry, the entire day’s dancing will commence with many different dances performed, some of which are old traditional style, some social dances, and many throughout the day in which the public is invited to participate.
All around the dance circle will be Native American vendors selling their beautiful hand crafts which usually include blankets, furs, jewelry, knifes and art, and of course food vendors with various native and other foods. There will also be a tomahawk throw. Weather permitting there will be a petting zoo. Proceeds of the event will benefit Camp Rotawanis, The Wyoming Trail Council and The Boy Scouts.
Pow - Wow signs will be posted to the camp from Mtn Top exit of Interstate 80 at Route 309 S to the Saint Johns Road. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, pets on a leash and NO DRUGS OR ALCOHOL ARE PERMITTED ON THE GROUNDS.
For more information or to make donations, contact Jeff Yellow Fox 570-764-7344. Donations can also be mailed to WSM at 292 Buck Mt Rd, Weatherly, PA 18255. Make checks payable to WSM.
Obituary
Carol Ann Palmeiri
In Loving Memory of Carol Ann Palmeiri Steilen | June 2, 1938 – June 17, 2025
It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother on June 17, 2025. She passed away peacefully in her sleep at home, with her family in attendance. She was 87 years old.
Born June 2, 1938, in Syracuse, New York, she was the daughter of Luis Steilen and Lois Steilen Planck. She grew up with her two brothers, Eric P. and Frederick “Gerry” Steilen, who preceded her in death and whom she held close in memory throughout her life.
On August 20, 1955, she married John Palmeiri and together they built legacy of warmth and hospitality that brought family and friends together for decades. If you ever attended one of the Palmeiri family barbecues, you know how special they were!
Carol had a gift for gardening and wherever she lived, her home was always surrounded by flowers that thrived under her care. Her creativity extended beyond plants as well—she was known for crafting whimsical wooden decorations,
including her signature fluffy sheep that stood cheerfully among the flowers.
Carol also dedicated many years of her life as a school bus driver for the Upper Dublin School District, which brought her great joy.
She is survived by her six beloved children: Mark Palmeiri, Carol (Jeffrey) Jones, Joan (Charles Gannon) Palmeiri, John Palmeiri Jr., Mary (Larry Toner) Palmeiri, and Paul (Eleesa) Palmeiri. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Jessica Fleissner, Michael Jones, Laura Doan, Nicolette Palmeiri-Bevevino, and Kirby Palmeiri.
To her great-grandchildren Shyla Rayne Nolan, Easton Jones, John Patrick “JP” Fleissner, Madison Doan, Audrey Doan, and Natalie Doan she was affectionately known as “Gigi.”
She will be remembered for her laughter, generosity, kindness, and strength. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the friendships she made. She will be missed beyond words.
A memorial Mass was celebrated June 25, from St. Peter the Fisherman Church, Lake Harmony, with Monsignor John G. Chizmar as celebrant.
From the Archives
From Lake News
July 2000
The cover of the July 2000 Lake News was a striking black and white silhouette of two deer browing at sunset, taken by Ann Martino.
From As the Lake Churns…
Fireworks was a concern “The Fourth of Juy is finally over! By now you ust be thinking that Lake News is unpatriotic! Where is our sense of tradition? No, we are just referring to the non-stop, never-ending fireworks that seemed to permeate the Holiday this year.”
The article praised the Split Rock fireworks show, but noted that residents and renters were setting off their own fireworks at all hours of the day and night, as late (or early) as 3:45 a.m.
From 18624
“We heard via E-mail that Pennsylvania State lawmakers approved companion bills designating polka and square dancing as Pennsylvania’s official dances. Specifically, the polka would become the
state dance and the square dance would become the state folk dance.”
Pocono Playhouse held its annual subscriber party for loyal season subscribers. It was given high marks by Lake residents who attended.
A number of locals were spotted by editor Mary Farnschlader at the US Senior Open held at Sauccon Valley Country Club.
Peterson’s Ski & Cycle offered information on hiking trails and trips, mountain bicycle trails, etc.
Lake Harmony Post Office invited postal customers to a Customer Appreciation Day with coffee, soda and goodies, and a brief “behind the counter” tour of the facility.
The Lake Harmony Concerned Citizens, also known as the Save The Lake Group, scheduled two fund-raising events, the annual LHCC lake
See ARCHIVES, page 34
Archives
Continued from page 33
benefit at Split Rock Lodge, and the annual golf tournament at Split Rock Golf Course.
An article detailed the progress of the Carbon County tax reassessment project. The first round of assessment appeals had been completed, and homeowners should have heard by press date whether their appeals had been successful. The appeals were held by a private company the county had hired to do the county-wide reassessment.
About 13% of the countywide total of 44,000 properties were appealed. Of that 6,000 over 4,000 won appeals for lower assessment.
Some assessments were changed even without appeals including some waterfront properties in Kidder and Penn Forest Townships, which were raised after the firm learned that the original assessments were not correct.
Property owners who were still not satisfied had the option of appealing before the Carbon County Board of Assessment Appeals, a panel of three people appointed by the county commissioners.
The Dimmick Memorial Library was the topic of another article, which spealled out the services it provides to adults and children, in the latter case especially for the summer reading progra, and for the former, lectures and musical presentations.
See ARCHIVES, page 35
Continued from page 34
Services were free to residents and property owners of Jim Thorpe, Nesquehoning, Penn Forest Township and Kidder Township. Readers were urged to support the annual fund drive, as well as the efforts of the Friends of the Lbrary.
Weight Watchers opened up a new session at Split Rock Lodge, for eight consecutive weeks.
Martz Buses were now picking up and dropping off passengers for New York at Harmony Beverage. Philadelphia and Atlantic City casino travelers were dropped off and picked up at the Roy Rogers restaurant at the Turnpike entrance.
Road cleanups were scheduled for July and September. While sponsored by the Lake Harmony Association, everyone was welcomed to participate. The annual LHA picnic was scheduled for August at the Mountain’s Edge.
Fishing stocking had been completed, with 1,789 fish added to the lake, at a total cost of $2,989.25 (average cost of $1.64 per fish). The LHA fish stocking program dated back to 1985, with a toal amount donated to fill the lake over those years of $20,601.75.
A long list of events and activities at the Nature Conservancy included Saturday guided nature walks, and Wednesday Nature Nights.
Mark McBrien Construction
Post Office Notes
by Christine A. Gilliar-Feller
USPS to release stamps, booklet to mark
250th anniversary
The Postal Service has announced two new stamp releases to celebrate the organization’s 250th anniversary.
The first release — a 32-page booklet titled “Putting a Stamp on the American Experience” — celebrates the cultural importance of U.S. stamps.
The booklet is only the fourth ever issued by the Postal Service and it highlights the popular series and subjects that give the stamp program its range and depth.
The booklet also comes with two sheets of a new stamp featuring Benjamin Franklin, the nation’s first postmaster general. The stamp is based on an 1875 reproduction of a 5-cent stamp from 1847 — one of the first official U.S. postage stamps.
The second release — a pane of 20 stamps titled 250 Years of Delivering — depicts a letter carrier on her rounds through all four seasons in cartoon form.
See PO NOTES, page 38
PO Notes
From page 36
Both the booklet and pane are scheduled to be released in July and will be available at Post Offices and usps.com
On July 26, 1775, the Second Continental Congress established “a line of posts” from Maine to Georgia to create a network of communications that kept Colonists’ messages from falling into the British Crown’s hands.
This postal system later became the Post Office Department and then the U.S. Postal Service.
April Shaner, Postmaster
Christine A. Gilliar-Feller, Sales Service Associate, fancy for clerk Window hours, Monday–Friday 8-11:30 a.m., 1-4:45 p.m.; Saturday
Some of the best baseball memories are when you were having fun
by Matthew Sieger
It just dawned on me that although my kids loved the movie The Sandlot, I only caught bits and pieces of it when they watched it. I had never watched the entire film. Today I did.
I am a big baseball fan, and I grew up playing the game. However, I must confess: I don’t like many baseball films because they often get something
wrong. Sometimes, the actors appear as if they’ve never played the game, game situations can be unrealistic, and screenwriters aren’t always true to baseball history.
The Sandlot sinned in the last regard, and did so “right off the bat,” to use a baseball reference. The narrator, the adult Scotty Smalls, describes Babe Ruth’s famous “called shot” in the 1932 World Series as happening in the ninth inning with two outs, a full count, and the tying run on base. In truth, Ruth hit that home run to center field, and it came in the fifth inning of a tie game.
But I forgive The Sandlot for that transgression because they got so much else right about baseball, especially as seen through the eyes of young kids.
Scotty Smalls had just finished fifth grade and was probably 11 years old when he moved to the San Fernando Valley in Southern California in 1962. That was the year LA’s Maury Wills broke the single-season record for steals. I identified with it immediately. I grew up playing baseball in sandlots and Little League in Hackensack, New Jersey, a suburb of New York City, where I played
See BASEBALL, page 40
Baseball
Continued from page 39
impromptu baseball, much like the one depicted in The Sandlot. Eight boys played baseball all day long on their neglected, unwatered field, and brought in newcomer Smalls to complete their team.
I loved some of the movie’s touches, such as pitcher Kenny DeNunez, the only black kid on the team, wearing the baseball cap of the Kansas City Monarchs, the team for which the legendary Satchel Paige pitched. The star of the sandlot squad, Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez, who wore a Los Angeles Dodger cap, is shown at the film’s end playing for the Dodgers and stealing home. Another sandlot kid wore the hat of the Los Angeles Angels, an expansion team that was established in 1961. Another great shout-out was the scene where Benny meets Babe Ruth in a dream in Benny’s bedroom, and, as the Babe is leaving, he spots a baseball card of Hank Aaron, who, of course, was destined to break the Babe’s career home run record. The Babe says, “Henry Aaron. Can I have this, kid?”
And all the kids know how to play ball. Kenny throws like a real pitcher, and all the kids can swing the bat, slide, and play the field.
The drama centers on the boys’ attempt to retrieve a ball that Smalls borrowed from his stepdad’s trophy room – a ball autographed by Babe Ruth. Smalls hits the ball for a homer over the fence into the yard of Mr. Mertle, played by James Earl Jones, who owns an old junkyard dog named Hercules. The boys call Hercules “The Beast,” as he is purported to have eaten a kid who tried to retrieve a ball!
See BASEBALL, page 42
Baseball
from page 40
The movie brilliantly captures the fears all kids had who played ball in the streets, sandlots, or backyards, particularly when retrieving a ball from a neighbor’s backyard. Was the neighbor mean? Would the neighbor scream at them? Arrest them? Shoot them?
They discover that not only is Mr. Mertle, who they greatly feared but had never met, a lovely old man, but in a shout-out to the Negro Leagues, he shows the boys a photo of him standing between Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, probably during a barnstorming tour that the Yankees did in the off season. And, to replace the Babe Ruth autograph ball that Hercules had chewed up, Mr. Mertle gives Smalls a ball autographed by the entire 1927 New York Yankees team, which included Ruth and Gehrig. Benny correctly refers to “Murderers’ Row,” the first six hitters in the lineup—props to the screenwriters for recognizing that team as perhaps the greatest of all time.
For me and others of the Smalls’ generation, the nostalgia is rooted in the concept of sandlot baseball. I know it’s hard for young people today to imagine, but we
would go down to our local worn-out field and assemble two full squads for a pickup game that would last for hours, and nobody seemed to care much about the score. Some of us also played Little League, but some didn’t. We just had fun.
I worry that the fun of baseball has been drained by parents exerting pressure on their kids to get college scholarships or Major League contracts. I
distinctly remember that after completing Little League at the age of 12, I just wanted a breather from organized baseball. The feeling waned, and I went on playing Babe Ruth League and high school baseball.
But if I had that feeling, then what about other kids who spend their waking hours in batting cages and baseball camps? Sure, they can nail the technical skills,
but are they losing the joy of the game in the process? Ninety-six percent of high school athletes never go on to play college ball.
The best baseball memories are those when you were having fun, like in The Sandlot.
Matthew Sieger, a retired sports journalist, shares baseball memories at The Sports Column.
Hickory Run Happenings
Learn archery at Hickory Run
Join Hickory Run State Park staff on July 12 to learn the basics of archery, including safety, technique, and proper use of equipment. This hands-on introductory course is intended to give a good start into a wonderful outdoor sport. All equipment is provided.
Participants must be at least 8 years old. Anyone under 18 needs an adult to sign their waiver.
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the office at (272) 808-6192.
For more information on this and all programs, check out the Calendar of Events: https://events. dcnr.pa.gov/hickory_run_state_park
This program is free, but registration is required.
Volunteer Garden Crew
If you love to garden, you can put your talents to work to make Hickory Run State Park more beautiful than ever.
On Saturday, July 18, from 9-11 a.m., Saturday,
August 23, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Saturday, September 27, from 9 a.m. to Noon, and Saturday, October 25, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., meet at the the Visitor Center (address 3 Family Camp Road, White Haven, PA 18661) as we weed, mulch, plant and transplant native wildflowers in the landscaping. This work is best suited to adults and older children, but all are welcome.
Please register to ensure we gather enough tools for all participants.
All equipment is provided, but bring your favorite gardening gloves if you have them (otherwise gloves will be provided).
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact our office at (272) 808-6192. For more information on this and all programs, check out the Calendar of Events: https:// events.dcnr. pa.gov/hickory_ run_state_park
THEME: FLOWERS
ACROSS
1. Straw man’s “victim”
5. Protestant denom.
8. Large edible mushroom
11. Mischievous Norse deity
12. *Thumbelina emerges from a flower in a fairy
13. Brick and mortar destination
15. Garner wages
16. Guinness and such
17. *Poison: “Every Rose Has Its ____”
18. *”If you go to San ____, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair”
20. Electric one and moray one
21. Killer whales
22. p in mpg
23. Fatwa, alt. sp.
26. Spain’s neighbor, across Strait of Gibraltar
30. “Back To The Future” actress
31. Leaked, as in ship
34. Miso bean
35. Operatic solos
37. H+, e.g.
38. Is dressed in
39. Leave a Hancock
40. Cast-off skin
42. Egyptian boy king
43. Clearance, as under a bridge
45. Neglectful in duty
47. *”Dandelion Wine” author ____ Bradbury
48. Dear one
50. Black cat, to some
52. *”Build Me Up _____”
56. Adult
57. ____ bowl, frozen dish
58. Poetic “through”
59. Latin dance
60. “Buffalo ____, won’t you come out tonight...”
61. Kids’ building block
62. Altitude, abbreviated
63. Like a fox
64. Water carrier
DOWN
1. Staff symbol
2. Zoo sound
3. Gumbo pod
4. Separate grain from chaff
5. Model-building wood
6. Smart ones?
7. 100 centavos
8. Refrigerate
9. Commits a faux pas
10. Mont Blanc, e.g.
12. a.k.a. meditation in motion (2 words)
13. Ranch grazer
14. *Bette Midler’s 1981 Grammy winning song (2 words)
19. Dungeness one and snow
one
22. *Poppy’s seed container
23. Banned camera setting, in a museum
24. Falcon’s home
25. Boreal forest, in Russia
26. Ma tre d’s list
27. Raccoon’s
South American cousin
28. *2024 Grammy winner for “Flowers”
29. Hop-drying kilns
32. *Lis in fleurde-lis
33. *____ Goo Dolls of “Gutterflower” fame
36. *”Flowers in the Attic” author V.C. ____
38. One of journalism’s Ws
40. Declare
41. Costing nothing
44. Want to
46. ____ Beach, SC
48. Belonging to duke
49. Miuccia Prada’s homeland
50. Like traditional storytelling
51. Lose skin
52. Tea servings
53. Tobacco
54. Strong desire
55. Standard’s partner
56. Govt. property org.
Find these words in the grid at left:
Artist
Balloon Band Bikini
Boulder Brothers Contest
Dancing Deer Double Duo EAC
Entertainment Erin Farm
Feeding Fire Fitz Friends
Hannah Harmony Here History Katana Karaoke Lake Market McClelland Moon News Nick Nina
Noel Organics Painting
Peterson
Pizza Planning Pocono
Police
Quiet
Realtor
Rescue
Rodger Search Simoso Sol Squad Strawberry Supervisor Tavern Timmy Township Valley Vendors
Wildlife Words Yoga Zoning
MARYANN SORIANO REALTOR
