CONTINUING: THE WHITE HAVEN JOURNAL ESTABLISHED 1879–146th YEAR, NO. 18
MENTORED YOUTH FISHING DAY sponsored by the Greater White Haven Chamber of Commerce drew boys and girls and their mentors to try for trout stocked in the Lehigh River on Saturday. The 16″ to 18″ fish are numbered and tagged. Anyone who catches a tagged fish this summer can redeem the tag at the White Haven Market for a $25 cash prize. Photo courtesy Chuck Stoffa. More on page 6.
CONTINUING: THE WEATHERLY HERALD ESTABLISHED 1880–145th YEAR, NO. 45
Second Street paving bid awarded in Weatherly
by Ruth Isenberg
Second Street in Weatherly will be paved this summer. Borough council accepted the low bid from New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co. during the March 24 meeting. Council has sought bids for both Second Street and North Street, and planned to base the decision on which street to pave based on how high the bids were.
New Ennterprise Stone & Lime Co. bid $62,864.16 for Second Street, well within the money available in the borough’s Liquid Fuels account. Other bids were $63,280 from the H&K Group, $62,918.40 from Lehigh Asphalt, and $75,235.40 from Pennsy Supply. Bids for North Street were $52,474 from
On Friday, April 11, the Weatherly Area High School Drama Club will perform Appropriate Audience Behavior, a one-act comedy by Ian McWethy. The plot focuses on Carol and Ashley, who are expecting a tale of woe as they take their seats to watch a production of Hamlet, but the real tragedy is that they’re sitting next to the world’s noisiest weirdos. The performance begins at 7 p.m. in the high school gym. Tickets are available at the door, $5 for students, $7 for adults. Cast members pictured from left are Ellen Whisler, Hayden DiGennaro, Preston Culp, Mackenzie Rhodes, Cortney Snyder, Madeline Rhodes, Eva Eroh, and Ben Kropp.
H&K, $55,574.34 from New Enterprise, $54,38.76 from Lehgh Asphalt, and $66,546.10 from Pennsy.
The borough was not so fortunate with its other bid openings. No bids were received for work at Eurana Park, although five bid packages were handed out.
Only one bid was received for Trail Contract 11, and it was higher than anticipated. Council rejected the bid for $88,371.06 from Herbener Trucking & Excavating, and decided to rebid both that project and the Eurana Park project, with bids to be opened at the April council meeting.
The bid for the trail feasibility study was awarded to Barry Isett See WEATHERLY, page 6
Woodhaven Road paving needed
by Ruth Isenberg
A permit has been issued for a new electric line in the Woodhaven development in White Haven, but before more building permits can be issued, North Woodhaven Drive around the lake will have to be completed. That was the consensus at the White Haven Borough Council meeting on March 24, when Atty. Sean See WHITE HAVEN, page 5
THE JOURNAL-HERALD
(USPS 277-440) Published weekly at 211 Main Street, White Haven, PA 18661
Telephone (570) 215-0204
Subscription Price—$40 per year in Luzerne & Carbon Counties, Pennsylvania, payable in advance. $45 per year elsewhere, payable in advance.
Periodicals postage paid at White Haven, PA 18661. POSTMASTER, send address changes to: THE JOURNAL-HERALD
211 Main Street, White Haven, PA 18661
(JAY E. HOLDER, Co-Publisher 1954-1997; CLARA HOLDER, Co-Publisher 1954-2014)
Seth Isenberg, Advertising Sales
Ruth Isenberg, Editor
Steve Stallone, Sports Editor
Member, Greater White Haven Chamber of Commerce Carbon County Chamber of Commerce
April is National Volunteer Month. That makes it a good time to recognize the men and women who serve their communities and organizations such as volunteer fire companies, ambulance services, libraries, churches, schools and more, for no money and sometimes at considerable cost to themselves.
Unfortunately, it seems as though there are fewer volunteers to recognize each year, and the people being recognized seem to be getting older. That could spell a serious problem for our communities, and our country.
As government services are being slashed, it is going to be more and more necessary for volunteer organizations to replace programs that are abandoned. Does community health care matter to you? Clinics will need your help.
Is public safety your thing? Local governments need emergency coordinators. Fire companies struggle to find enough help, and depend on having some younger members as the work of firefighting can be physically taxing.
How about literacy and learning? Libraries and schools can use your skills, and your passion.
If you feel you don’t have the ability to be a hands-on firefighter, ambulance volunteer, or tutor, every organization has multiple administrative and fund-raising tasks that need to be done. Few groups have enough people to do those tasks.
Volunteering is a great way to learn. In exchange for your time, you will gain insight into how organizations operate, and what specific jobs entail. Fire fighters, for example, receive training opportunities through the PA State Fire Academy, as well as with other regional trainings. Every volunteer post includes education. The knowledge gained can even lead to starting a paid career path.
Do thank the volunteers you know. But also consider joining them. The rewards are endless, for yourself and for your community.
Archives
From The Journal-Herald April 7, 2005
Clara R. Holder, Publisher
Heavy rains over the weekend caused the water level at the Franis Walter Dam to exceed 1,407 feet, and whitewater rapids to form in the Black Creek in Weatherly. Both were documented in front page photos.
Both the Crestwood School Board and the Crestwood Education Association rejected the recommendations of the fact finder appointed by the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board. Both parties were to continue working with a mediator appointed by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Mediation.
A zoning hearing was held in Lehigh Township to consider the application of the Flying Aces motorcycle club for a special exception to operate a “private recreation facility” in Rockport. Club president Charles Bird testified that the camping facility would not be a commercial entity open to the public, and would not be permanent, but would improve traffic problems that had occured in the past when parties were held. Neighbors feared noise, traffic and inappropriate behavior. The hearing was continued until the end of the month, so that the property could be inspected. Attorneys for both the club and the township recommended that a representative of the club and a representative of the neighbors get together to draft a set of rules that could become conditions for approval.
The editorial suggested that the township should consider obtaining police protection to enforce any rules that might be established.
Recycling bins were ready for pickup for residents of Lehigh and Lausanne Townships, courtesy of the Carbon County Solid Waste Department.
Announcements of candidates for public office included Tom Connors, for borough council of Weatherly; Corey Gerhart for Weatherly Area School Board; and John Toft for Weatherly Area School Board.
Weatherly Area Elementary students Alicia Panzarella, Tracy Galada and Rebecca Moyer were selected to represent the school at the Pennsylvania Music Education Association’s District 10 Elementary Band and Orchestra Fest at Shenandoah Valley Elementary School. Weatherly Area Middle School students Amanda Bartosevitch, Cheslsea DeMoor, Kimberly Gatski, Emma Hill, Kelly Medico, Bethany Papincak, Heather Polchin and Taylor Titus were chosen for the PMEA District 10 Intermediate SongFest at Trexler Middle School in Allentown.
White Haven Borough Council continued its campaign to have the railroad repair the stone retaining wall supporting the Reading, Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad beside G&A Hardware, which was bulging in several areas. The letter from borough engineer Dominic Yannuzi was to be forwarded to the Public Utility Commission.
The White Haven Area Community Library received a check for $10,000 from the Julius and Katheryn Hommer Foundation of Brodheadsville, to be used for rehabilitation of the Engine House building.
Heritage Hill Senior Community in Weatherly celebrated the brithdays of four of its residents Josephine Trettel, 96; Dr. Dan Moore, also 96; Carmella Lamana, 95; and Mary Seaman, also 95.
The Weatherly Area Council of the Carbon County Chamber of Commerce announced Business Expo 05 in the Weatherly Area Middle School Cafeteria, with refreshments provided by the Weatherly Area High School Interact Club.
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
WEATHERLY BOROUGH
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed bids for the Multi-Use Trail Phase 11 Drainage Pipe Placement and Tree Clearing Project will be received by the Borough of Weatherly, until 4:00 P.M. on Monday, April 28, 2025. Bids will be opened and read aloud at the Borough Council meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025 at approximately 5:15 P.M (meeting starts at 5:00). The bid award date will be Monday, April 28, 2025, intended to immediately follow bid opening.
Bids will be received for Contract No. 11 Rebid -
Multi-Use Trail Phase 1 Pipes I (Trail Station 31+98) and J (Trail Station 36+20), and Tree Clearing (Trail Station 23+25)
Bids will only be received in person and all documents and solicitation details are available at no cost at the Borough of Weatherly, 61 West Main Street, Weatherly, PA 18255 during office hours Monday - Friday, 8:00
A.M. - 4:00 P.M.
A pre-bid conference for the Project will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the administrative Office Weatherly Borough, 61 West Main Street, Weatherly, PA 18255. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is encouraged but not required.
The Borough hereby reserves the right, which is understood and agreed to by all bidders, to refuse any or all bids submitted; and also reserves the right to waive any informality in bids received, but any contract awarded will be to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder.
There are no Davis-Bacon requirements associated with the AMLER Program.
Prevailing wage rates are also not required for grants.
This Contract is to be substantially completed in 45 days and final completion in 60 days.
DATE: April 1, 2025
Harold Pudliner Borough Manager 4/10
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
WEATHERLY BOROUGH CARBON COUNTY, PA EURANA PARK IMPROVEMENTS REBID
General Notice
Weatherly Borough (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project:
Eurana Park Improvements Rebid
Bids for the construction of the Project will be received in person at the administrative office of Weatherly Borough located at 61 West Main Street, Weatherly, PA 18255, until Monday, April 28, 2025 at 4:00 PM local time. Bids received will be publicly opened and read at the Borough Council meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025 at approximately 5:15 PM (meeting begins at 5:00).
The Project includes the following Work:
Construction of one fence enclosed Basketball court and two fence enclosed Pickleball courts with adjacent ADA accessible courtyard, three (3) ADA accessible parking spaces, one ADA accessible road crossing, two (2) ADA accessible ramps with detectable warning surfaces (two sides of amphitheater seating area), grading and bituminous paving to provide an ADA accessible pathway throughout Eurana Park, bituminous paved amphitheater seating area, and plantings.
The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: , Weatherly Borough 61 West Main Street, Weatherly, PA 18255
Prospective Bidders may obtain or examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office on Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 3:00 pm, and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office.
Printed copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office at no cost and are available at the Borough of Weatherly, 61 West Main Street during office hours (8:00 AM through 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday).
A pre-bid conference for the Project will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 10:00 AM at the administrative Office Weatherly Borough, 61 West Main Street, Weatherly, PA 18255. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is encouraged but not required.
Bid security in the amount of 10% of the bid will be required. The successful Bidder will execute and file the proposed contract and furnish and pay for performance and payment bonds in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price as security for the performance and payment of all costs thereof within ten (10) days after the issuance of the intent to award of the contract. A maintenance bond in the amount of 10% of the contract award price will also be required.
The successful bidder will comply with The Pennsylvania State Prevailing Wage Rates and DCNR Nondiscrimination/Sexual harassment policy.
For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract awar , refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.
This Advertisement is issued by:
Owner: Weatherly Borough
By: Harold Pudliner
Title: Borough Manager
Date: April 1, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY have been granted to JOHN R. KUDLICK AND MARK R. KUDLICK of the Estate of John Kudlick, Jr. a/k/a John Kudlick, deceased and late of Weatherly, Carbon County, Pennsylvania, who died on December 28, 2024. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make payment, and those having claims, present same to:
Susan Sernak-Martinelli, Esquire Law Office of Susan Sernak-Martinelli
199 North Church Street
Hazleton, Pennsylvania 18201 4/3
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY have been granted to REGINA MARY PETRILYAK of the Estate of Peter M. DiLauro, Jr. a/k/a Peter DiLauro, deceased and late of West Hazleton, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, who died on January 9, 2025. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make payment, and those having claims, present same to:
Susan Sernak-Martinelli, Esquire Law Office of Susan Sernak-Martinelli
199 North Church Street
Hazleton, Pennsylvania 18201 4/10
4/10
obituAries
GEORGE BYRON RHOADES
George Byron Rhoades, 81 years of age, of Weatherly, rode off into heaven on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, peacefully at home in the loving care of his children and his beloved wife of 44 years Monica (Chervino) Rhoades. His beloved Golden Doodle Grace was by his side, and his prized horse Cisco was accompanying him as he left his home which he built in 1986.
Born September 12, 1943, in Hazleton, he was the son of the late Charles and Helen (Reimiller) Rhoades. George was also predeceased by his brother, Charles Rhoades, Jr. Surviving in addition to his wife Monica are son, Travis J. Rhoades and his companion of many years Michele Burke; daughters, Caitlin J. Lizbinski and her husband Kevin, and Michele Rhoades and her fiancé Jason Kutney; sister, Clo-Ellen Triano, wife of Nicholas Triano; grandchildren, Aidan Rhoades, Lucy Mae Lizbinski, Skye, Angeleigh, and Aubrey Burke. A 1962 graduate of Hazleton High School, George was a
lifetime accomplished carpenter and contractor owning his own construction business, known as George Rhoades Construction, for nearly 50 years. George greatly prided himself on the quality of his craft, and the integrity of his word to his clients, many of whom became friends. Always a cowboy at heart, George loved his horses and riding with his friends. He was a member of the Mtn. Trail Riders club of Weatherly for many years and spent many hours on horseback. His second love was his little farm, where he spent most of his free time when he wasn’t working. Another of his loves was collecting model trains over many years. George was proud of his heritage, and maintained membership in the Pulaski Club and Y.M.P.A. Association of Hazleton. George served honorably in the United States Army during the Bay of Pigs as a dog handler, which fostered his love of animals. He was also a social member of many local Legions, and fire companies. He was a good friend to all he met and had quite the sense of humor. George was a member of St. Matthew’s Church of Weatherly.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Weatherly.
A celebration of George’s life will take place on April 3, at 7 p.m.. from Zion Evangelical Congregational Church, 51 North Locust Street, Hazleton. Friends may call from 5 p.m. until the time of services.
Memorials in George’s name to:
Carbon County Animal Shelter
63 Broad Street
Nesquehoning, PA 18240
Online condolences may be made to the family at www. griffithsfuneralhomes.com
ROBERT R. BURKE
Robert R. Burke, of White Haven, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025 in Lehigh Hospital Hazleton Campus.
Born in White Haven, he was the son of the late Walter and Josephine Sirosky Burke. He served his country in the United States Army. Robert worked for Wilmot Engineering and was president of the union at Wilmot. He was very active in the community, a charter member of Dennison Township Fire Company, where he served in several positions, and was a member of the American Legion.
Robert enjoyed watching the Phillies and Dodgers; loved spending time with family and friends, fishing, hunting, gardening, and trips to Canada.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by
his brothers Donald, Walter, Richard, Edward, and William Burke, and sister Mary Jane Witkowski.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 62 years, Grace Ackerman Burke; and brothers Thomas and James Burke, all of White Haven; sister Patricia Searfoss of Wilkes-Barre; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 3, at 9:30 a.m. from the Lehman Family Funeral Service, Inc. White Haven, with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Patrick’s Church. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery.
Friends are invited to join the family on Wednesday, April 2, from 5 to 7 p.m. and Thursday morning from 9 a.m. until time of service.
A couple of corrections
by Ruth Isenberg
Two stories from last week need a bit of clarification.
The Foster Township supervisors’ story mis-stated the increase in sewage treatment rates for the section of the township supplied by Aqua Pennsylvania. The quarterly cost will rise from $87 to $138.15— the article said that was the annual cost. The article also mixed information about the system in the eastern part of the township administered by Aqua Pennsylvania with details about the system in the western part
of the township administered by Pennsylvania American.
In the story about candidates in the upcoming primary election, two candidates were listed for Dennison Township Supervisor, with a notation that there was one to be elected. There are actually two open seats. Angela Kaminski, R, is seeking the nomination to a four-year term. Christopher Bender, R, who is currently serving on the board, is seeking the nomination for a full sixyear term.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters Administration have been granted to Joann Drumheller, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, in the Estate of Frank Costabile, late of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, who died on February 25, 2025. All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make payment and those having claims or demands to present the same without delay to the Administratrix named or to:
Alexis C. Falvello, Esquire THE FALVELLO LAW FIRM, P.C.
641 State Route 93
Sugarloaf, PA 18249 4/10
White Haven
Continued from page 1
Logsdon confirmed that the original land development plans approved in 1975 and again in 1987 show a road with a stone base, all the way around the lake.
Engineer Dominic Yanuzzi has approved a stormwater management plan for the electrical line, based on a map that shows a dirt road. He was unaware of a crushed pipe under the road, as reported by council member Julie Fallon.
Building Code Officer Denny Peters has issued a building permit for a home. He will be contacted to discuss the situation, with a field visit recommended. Borough manager Linda Szoke reported that two more lots have been sold, so either the road must be put in or an application made to change the land development plan before any more permits are issued.
In other business, council granted permission to the White Haven Volunteer Fire Company to hold its annual Catfish Derby August 8-10 at Linesville Park. Property tax collected for February was $13,356.38; local Realty Transfer Tax for February was $1,852.20; and delinquent taxes for January was $8.85.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION have been granted to TIFFANY C. BISTREK-LEGGO of the Estate of Joseph Alex Leggo aka Joe Leggo, deceased and late of Hazleton, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, who died on January 3, 2025. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make payment, and those having claims, present same to:
Susan Sernak-Martinelli, Esquire Law Office of Susan Sernak-Martinelli
199 North Church Street
Hazleton, Pennsylvania 18201 4/10
BEARS TO BRING QUILTED COMFORT:
The Cranberry Quilt Guild created Cuddle Bears as a winter project, collecting 72 bears the first time they undertook the project. Twenty of those bears have been donated to the White Haven Police Department. They can be used in any situation when a child is involved, after an accident, during an investigation, or even as a friend during an interview at the police station. Welcoming the bears to their new home are, from left, White Haven Mayor Tim Janosco, Police Chief Rich Mocafin, Cranberry Quilt member Lisa Stuart, and Police Officer Katherine Lopez. JH: Ruth Isenberg
librAry corNer
On Tuesday, April 8, The White Haven Area Community Library will hold its Annual Meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the John Murphy Room. We invite you to attend this meeting to find out what the library has been up to this past year, as well as what is planned for the year ahead. During the meeting, committee reports will be presented regarding all 2024 library activities, and new library officers will be elected. The board’s regular monthly meeting will take place at 5:30 p.m. just prior to the Annual Meeting.
The next meeting of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, facilitated by Joan Gower, will take place on April 15 at 6:30. Drop ins are welcome, however if childcare is needed, please call ahead to let us know at 570-443-8776. We hope you will consider joining us whether you are in need of support or have support to offer others.
There are still a few spots left for the Pysanky Egg Painting Workshop taught by Paul Corinchock on Saturday April 12 from 1 to 4 p.m. Advanced registration is required for this event and can be done by calling the library at 570-443-8776 or stopping in before space runs out. The fee is $40.
Mark your calendars for May 10 to attend a Community Engagement event at the WHACL. There will be entertainment, crafts refreshments, and an opportunity to learn more about White Haven’s Blueprint Community endeavors. The event will feature a visit from The Balloon Artist who has entertained and amazed us at past library events.
The Western Pocono Trout Unlimited and the WHACL will hold a Trout Festival on June 7. This should be a fun and educational activity for all ages. Watch the Journal-Herald and the library Facebook page
for additional information as it develops.
Regular activities continue at the library for April. The Scrabble Club will meet on April 3 and 17, at 6 p.m. Both novice and experienced players are welcome to attend.
The Fiber Arts Group will meet on April 10 and 24 from 10 a.m. to Noon. Bring your knitting, crochet or embroidery project and spend time with others who enjoy the same. Beginners are welcome.
The library welcomes residents of the greater White Haven Community as well as visitors to our area. Computers and free wi-fi are available to everyone.
If you are interested in volunteering at the library, we would love to meet you. There are a variety of opportunities available for you to share your skills and experience. Please call 570-443-8776 or stop in during library hours.
Trout Stocking Youth Fishing Day
Continued from page 1
and Associates, at $50,000. Other bids were $59,760 from Benesch Engineering, and $91,180 from Atlas Engineering. A $50,000 grant from DCNR will fund the study to determine if a trail can be developed to link the borough to the Hazleton Rails to Trails. Mayor Paul Hadzick voted against awarding this bid; the other votes were unanimous.
A petition was presented to council to make Butz Street one-way permanently. It is now made one-way during the winter. The issue was tabled for study.
Also tabled was a proposed key lock box ordinance that would mandate businesses purchasing lock boxes that would be accessible by fire fighters.
American Legion Commander Harry Shelhammer requested permission to hold a Memorial Day, and also a $500 donation toward it from the borough. Both were granted. He and American Legion Auxiliary president Georgeanne Herling also spoke regarding a suggestion by the mayor that the organizations move into Tweedle Park, making their current location available to be sold and developed. They were not in favor of that idea.
Regulations about electric reconnection inspections were approved for advertisement.
A resolution changing the electric meter charge to $8.91 per month was approved.
Photos courtesy Chuck Stoffa-Bella Gallery
Forasythia is starting to bloom on the bushes at our house, and Seth is sure we had at least one purple crocus. The warm weather, followed by chillier temperatures, may have the plants confused, but there is definitely a bit of green grass in the yard as well.
We arrived home at dusk on Tuesday evening, opened the garage door, and came face-toface with a medium-sized black cat. I don’t know who was more startled, the cat, our dogs, or us. The cat took off into the yard, and out at the opposite end. The dogs, who were on leash, pulled hard, but by the time they were unleashed, the cat was long gone.
Seeing the UConn Lady Huskies in the Final Four is exciting. Here’s hoping they can take it all the way it’s been too long.
Baseball is back. The Phillies are off to a strong start, with a 3-1 record as this paper went to bed. We’re also paying attention to the Frozen Four, with the Penn State vs Boston U game on April 10 sure to be exciting.
We considered a walk at Rockport over the weekend, but it was just too crowded. So we headed out to a quieter spot, an old favorite, the Picton Preserve in Foster Township.
Haven. The
will be closed starting April 7. Cars will be detoured through town to the entrance off Route 534, but trucks will be sent via Route 940 to Route 309 and pick up Interstate 80 outside Mountain Top.
If you are travelling through New Jersey, parts of Interstate 80 are still closed because of those sinkholes. Here in northeast PA we kind of expect mining left0vers to cause problems from time to time, but they come as a surprise in our neighbor to the east.
Easter Egg Hunt slated
The annual White Haven Easter Egg Hunt will take place on Saturday, April 12, at Lehigh Park. Registration begins at Noon, and the hunt starts promptly at 1 p.m.
The hunt is sponsored by the White Haven EMS, Dennison Township and White Haven Volunteer Fire Companies, and the White Haven Police
Department.
The Easter Bunny will be there, along with other special guests, and lots of opportunities for photos. Hundreds of prizes and snacks have been donated by local businesses and individuals.
Sign up at https://forms.gle/ FD4yP8ZoeEjz5DQu8
WHITE HAVEN AREA COMMUNITY LIBRARY
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025
6:30 p.m. John Murphy Room 121 Towanda St., White Haven, PA
Revisions to the Bylaws
Quilt
of Valor presented
A Quilt of Valor. Why have over 350,000 Quilts of Valor been awarded throughout our nation? Our veterans, whether serving our nation, in time of crisis or in a time of peace have been awarded these quilts since 2003.
The Quilt of Valor Foundation began when a quilter named Catherine Roberts had a dream while her son was deployed in Iraq. She dreamt a young man in uniform was sitting on his bed, head in hand, looking very worn and distraught. When she awoke that morning she could still see that vision. She knew she had to do something to help and comfort these men and women serving in the Armed Forces. Twenty-two years later, this organization is still awarding quilts that are meant to say thank you for your service, sacrifice and valor in serving our nation.
The most recent awardee is Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph (Donnie) Vencloski of Shickshinny. Nominated by his son, Joseph Vencloski Jr., Petty Officer Vencloski was awarded a Quilt of Valor by Marie Shulenski, group leader of the Hazleton Area chapter of Quilts of Valor. Family members along with friends were present for the presentation, proudly supporting him then as they did many years ago.
Petty Officer Vencloski served in the United States Navy from 1968-1972 during the Vietnam War. He served on the USS
Obanon DD450, involved with structural steel and hauling. He was a ship fitter as a 3rd Class. He served in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, North Korea in the Yellow Sea, patrolled the Danang River and Camron Bay in Vietnam and was involved with artillery shooting off the coast of Vietnam. He also served on the US Bryce Canyon AD36 before it was decommissioned in 1982.
The Armed Forces Expeditioner Award along with the Vietnam Service Award and the Vietnam Campaign Award were awarded to Petty Officer Vencloski.
The Quilt of Valor that Petty Officer Vencloski received was pieced by Carolyn Letzko, quilted by Cindy Hilfiger and bound by Theresa Steinman, all members of the Cranberry Quilt Guild. In addition to this special quilt, Petty Officer Vencloski was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation from the Quilt of Valor Foundation.
Conner
McAuley is WAHS
March Senior
Conner McAuley, son of Lew and Cassandra Houser, Weatherly, has been named Senior of the Month for March at Weatherly Area High School. Conner is a member of the Scholastic Scrimmage team and the Weatherly Area High School chapter of the National Honor Society. Conner is also involved in the Drama Club as a stage crew sound engineer.
In the community, Conner is active in Boy Scouts of America, and holds the rank of Life Scout. He is the Chapter Chief with the Carbon-Luzerne chapter of Order of the Arrow, and volunteers with the White Haven troop. Conner also participates in various NHS-sponsored volunteer opportunities.
Sponsors for the month of March are Citizens’ Fire Co. No. 1, and Broad Mountain Stone, both of Weatherly.
WAHS students were invited by the Carbon County Veterans Affairs Organization to participate in the Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Day, the day honoring the last day of American military involvement in Vietnam. The event was celebrated at Penns Peak in Jim Thorpe. A law signed by the governor just last year made it a state law to honor all Vietnam Veterans on March 29.
Over 250 veterans and their spouses were in attendance, many of whom were grateful to receive thankyou cards from WAHS students. Weatherly’s own Grace Portell was a speaker during the student presentation portion of the ceremony. In attendance, from left, are Grace Portell, Emma Heister, Abigail Weston, Kelly Reiner, Olivia Marasco, State Senator Dave Argall, and WAHS history teacher Shane Moran.
JourNAl-herAld sPorts
Crestwood Sports Roundup
Crestwood slams Honesdale for 15-1 softball
Celia Sahlnecker stroked a home run and single, driving in five of her team’s runs as Crestwood rolled past Honesdale 15-1 for a five-inning non-conference softball victory last week at Crestwood.
The Lady Comets collected 15 hits in all to support winning pitcher Brooke Lenahan, who struck out five and allowed just two hits over four innings of work. She backed her cause with two hits.
Madison Mendrzycki also had three hits, and Jorja Snyder had three hits and drove in a pair for Crestwood. Ella Richards added a pair of hits, and Kendall Mendzycki had two hits and pitched a scoreless fifth inning to finish up the win.
Holy Redeemer 15, Crestwood 5 - Clinging to a 3-0 lead, Holy Redeemer broke open last week’s WVC contest with a six-run fourth inning, and went on to the six-inning win over visiting Crestwood.
Zoe Pecuch and Abby Williams both had four hits and four RBIs to pace the Royals. Williams and Bella Boylan had home runs, and Boylan also tripled and drove in three runs. Katie Genovese drove in four runs with her three hits for Holy Redeemer.
Crestwood’s Celia Sahlnecker is greeted by her teammates at home plate following her home run during last week’s non-conference softball game against Honesdale.
Sahlnecker finished with two hits and five RBIs to power the Lady Comets to a 15-1 win.
Anne Carter was in the circle for the Royals, striking out seven and scattering nine hits. Crestwood finally got to Carter
Lehigh Gorge Notary
Liz Berger has been providing Tag & Title, DCNR, Boat and Fish Commission, and general Notary services in White Haven for over 30 years. As the local community Notary Public with years of experience, there is no question she can’t answer. Find her at Lehigh Gorge Campground, 4585 State Street in East Side, or under the More tab at:
victory
in a four-run fifth inning to get within 9-4, but would get no closer.
Kendall Mendrzycki went 3-for-4 at the leadoff spot for Crestwood. Brooke Lenahan was 2-for-4 with a double, and both players drove in a run.
Jorja Snyder and Madison Mendrzycki added RBI singles. Lenahan struck out eight and walked one.
Crestwood softball pitcher
Brooke Lenahan delivers during last week’s nonconference softball game against Honesdale, at Crestwood. Lenahan threw four innings of one-run ball as the Lady Comets scored a 15-1 victory.
BASEBALL
Crestwood 7, Wyoming Seminary 6 - Chase Galella’s eighth-inning double to deep left field brought home Caleb McManus with the winning run as the Comets got the walk-off win over Wyoming Seminary last week.
McManus opened the eighth with a base hit ahead of Galella’s big hit, as Crestwood rallied for the non-conference victory.
Photo by Bob Gaetano
Photo by Bob Gaetano
Continued from page 10
Dylan Domzalski stroked a double, two singles and three RBIs, while Galella added three hits and two runs scored to lead Crestwood’s 14-hit offensive assault. Jaxson Fedak drove in a pair, and Jack Rodgers collected three hits and scored three runs for the Comets. Connor Wagaman and McManus each had a pair of hits.
Seminary leadoff hitter Colin Donovan went 4-for-4 with a double and RBI, and Antek Evan drove in three runs with a pair of hits to pace the Blue Knights.
Wyoming Seminary scored three times in the first and three more times in the top of the fourth to build a 6-2 lead before Crestwood came all the way back.
The Comets scored three runs in the home fourth and tied it with a run in the sixth before plating the game-winner in the eighth.
Jacob Feisel relieved McManus in the fifth and pitched four scoreless innings of relief to pick up the mound win, striking out seven along the way. He allowed just two hits and one walk.
BOYS’ LACROSSE
Crestwood 15, Tunkhannock 0 - The Comets came ready to play, scoring 13 first-half goals en route to the WVC shutout over Tunkhannock last week.
Ashton Amend produced five
goals and Caleb Eisenhauer added three more for the Comets.
Crestwood 13, Lakeland 11 - The Comets again relied on a big first half, outscoring host Lakeland 10-2 in the opening half before holding on down the stretch for the WVC win last week.
Kevin Schlude paced Crestwood with five goals, while Jack Augustine contributed a pair of goals and four assists.
BOYS’ TENNIS
Crestwood 4,
Holy Redeemer 1 - The Comets improved to 5-0 on the season with last week’s win over Holy Redeemer.
Sean Rossi beat Jadon White (6-1, 6-0) and Spencer Young blanked Jack Antinnes (6-0, 6-0) to pick up singles wins for the Comets.
At first doubles, Aaron Kogoy and Will Savner zipped Brayden Sock and Daniel Matechak (6-0, 6-0). Crestwood’s second doubles team of Jack Groth and Mike Modrovsky completed the team victory with a 6-2, 6-1 win.
Holy Redeemer’s lone point came at first singles, where Frank Klimovitz downed Tommy Biscotti 6-1, 6-1.
Crestwood 5,
Valley West 0 - The Comets blanked Wyoming Valley West last week for their fourth straight win.
Crestwood’s Tommy Biscotti faced the most resistance, as he outlasted Gadigidas Reisinger
7-5, 5-7, 6-2 at first singles. Sean Rossi added a 6-1, 6-0 singles win over Trevor Klem, while Spencer Young won by forfeit.
The Comets breezed in doubles play. Aaron Kogoy and Will Savner topped Cyrus Wairiuko and Ben Zera (6-1, 6-0), while Ethan Zabroski and Mike Modrovsky rolled by Nisayah Taylor and James Youells (6-0, 6-0).
Weatherly Sports Roundup Lady Wreckers pick up first two softball victories
The Weatherly Area High School girls’ softball team is off to a 2-2 start to its season, picking up home wins over Columbia-Montour Vo-Tech (18-3) and Shenandoah Valley (15-1), with road setbacks at Hanover Area (11-0) and Marian (13-3).
Monday’s scheduled nonleague game at MMI Prep earlier this week was postponed. Last week’s home win over Shenandoah Valley featured the Lady Wreckers at their best, with pitching, defense and hitting all contributing to the 15-1, five-inning victory.
Pitcher Rebecca Caldwell scattered three hits, struck out seven, and did not allow a run after the opening inning. Caldwell also had a pair of hits as part of the Lady Wreckers’ 13-hit assault.
Olivia Marasco also had two hits and drove in two runs, while Rachel Rosenlund collected three RBIs for the Lady Wreckers.
Weatherly is scheduled to visit Minersville on Thursday of this week. The Lady Wreckers’ next home game is April 10 against Lincoln Leadership Academy.
BASEBALL
After a 17-2 non-league win at Lincoln Leadership Academy to start its season, the Weatherly Area baseball team dropped three games over a four-day stretch last week, falling to MMI Prep (11-0), Marian (15-0) and Shenandoah Valley (19-0).
MMI Prep 11, Weatherly Area 0 - The host Preppers broke a scoreless tie with a six-run third inning, then added five more runs in the fourth en route to the five-inning non-league win.
Mikie Kranyak and Caleb Skuba each had two hits and drove in a pair of runs for MMI (2-2). Thomas Pantages also had two hits.
Trent Higgins paced the Wreckers (1-3) with a single and two stolen bases. Corbin Wagner also singled.
Shenandoah Valley 19, Weatherly Area 0 - Landon Monaghan pitched a threeinning no-hitter, and the Blue Devils jumped the Wreckers with a 10-run first inning on their way to the Schuylkill League win.
Monaghan also did damage at the plate, going 3-for-4 and driving in four runs. Teammates John Burke and Jeremy Thomas drove in two runs apiece for the Blue Devils, who scored three times in the second and six more in the third. The game was halted after three due to the 15-run rule. The Wreckers are at Minersville on Thursday of this week, then host Nativity on Friday. Weatherly welcomes ColumbiaMontour Vo-Tech for a nonleague game on Monday, April 7.
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THEME: DESSERTS
ACROSS
1. Like some champagnes
5. Undergarment
8. Dashboard acronym
11. Poison ivy woe
12. Took to court
13. Milan’s La ____ 15. Afresh
16. Globes and such 17. SNL’s fortÈ
18. *Ladyfingers+coffee liqueur
20. Grammy of sports
21. Jeweler’s unit
22. *Like walnuts on ice cream
23. *Thin Mint or Carmel deLite
26. *Apple dip
30. Nelson Mandela’s org.
31. Profoundness, pl.
34. Frost-covered
35. Ticket leftovers
37. Pathet ____
38. Lazybones
39. Samoan money
40. A in AU, Alabama
42. Heidi Samuel ___ Klum
43. Contaminating punch
45. Flammable anesthetics
47. a.k.a. acid
48. Military group
50. Jezebel’s deity
52. *Espresso+gelato
56. Forgo
57. Palo ____, CA
58. Sacred image
59. Southern cuisine pods
60. Show the guns
61. Small stream
62. “The Star-Spangled Banner” author
63. Toni Morrison’s “____ Baby”
64. Adeline or Addison, for short DOWN
1. Troublesome child
2. Jasmine of “Aladdin,” e.g.
3. Olympic cast-out
4. Smack
5. Anatomical sac
6. Overthrow by argument
7. Marketing creations
8. Wild onion
9. Clever tactic
10. Spanish sea
12. Evening party
13. See-through 14. *Eggs+milk+sugar
19. Old ____, or unpopped popcorn kernels
22. Be, singular past tense
23. Uses a fishing reel
24. Like beer at a kegger (2 words)
25. Round openings
26. Cabbage, in France
27. “The House at Pooh Corner” author
28. African chieftain
29. Ancient Greeks’ harps
32. Socket counterpart
33. Bar bill
36. *Filo
On the Sly
Emotions always come out during NCAA’s ‘March Madness’
by Steve Stallone Sports Editor
The emotion that stems from the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Division I Basketball Championships is truly amazing, and it’s been on full display once again this March.
Amazing plays. Thrilling comebacks. Buzzer-beating victories. Big upsets. The thrill of victory.
The NCAA Tournaments provide all that and more. And when the on-court celebrations and locker room dances are over, there’s another side to it.
The agony of defeat.
In the one-and-done format of tournament play, a loss is fatal. It’s sudden, and it’s season-ending. For some, it’s career-ending.
And it’s emotional.
Former Villanova men’s basketball coach Jay Wright, who now serves as a studio analyst for CBS on its March Madness broadcasts, knows a little about both ends of that emotion.
His Villanova teams won two national championships. They also exited the NCAA Tournament 14 times under his watch. He has felt that pain first-hand, the sudden finality of a season-ending loss, and shared those thoughts on Sunday’s telecast.
“You can’t describe to somebody how close you get with those guys,” Wright said. “You’re preparing for success. You never anticipate that there’s ever going to be any failure. And then it just smacks you man, right in the face. And you’re with the guys that you love and you know it’s not going to continue. And it’s just truly heartbreaking. And there’s nothing you can do to ease anyone’s hurt.”
There was plenty of hurt for me on Sunday, as I could officially tear up my men’s brackets. Michigan State’s loss to Auburn ended any chance I had to cash out.
In addition to Michigan State, I selected Florida and Houston in my other two brackets. And while they are still in the running for a national title, some upsets that never happened and some buzzerbeaters that went the other way left me without a chair when this dance was over.
In fact, there were fewer upsets in this men’s tournament than any in the past 15 years, and the tourney’s top four seeds—Auburn, Florida, Houston and Duke—advanced to the Final Four for only the second time since the field expanded to 64 teams.
I see Duke, the No. 1 overall seed, cutting down the nets in San Antonio next Monday night.
A feel-good story is playing out in the Women’s Tournament, where UConn senior Paige Bueckers has taken her amazing game to even greater heights.
Bueckers, the likely No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft, scored 31 points as UConn eliminated top-seeded USC to reach the Final Four. USC was without superstar JuJu Watkins, who suffered an ACL injury in the second round.
It was Bueckers’ third straight 30-point game in this tournament, and she has 105 points in three games thus far.
The second-seeded Huskies are in the Final Four with three top seeds: UCLA, Texas, and defending champion South Carolina.
UConn is looking to end a nine-year title drought and capture its 12th national championship. It would be a first for Bueckers, who had her previous three trips to the Final Four end in disappointment.
UConn faces No. 1 overall seed UCLA in Friday’s semifinals, with South Carolina taking on Texas.
It feels as if Bueckers and the Huskies are on a mission, so I’m leaning toward UConn winning twice more and cutting down the nets in Tampa on Sunday.
NOTES FROM HERSHEY
- Four-time defending state
champion Archbishop Wood was unable to get a fifth, upset by South Fayette 45-37 in the PIAA Class 5A girls’ basketball championship game Saturday.
Archbishop Wood eliminated Crestwood 62-29 in the semifinal round one week earlier, but could not duplicate the magic it had produced through four onesided tournament victories.
South Fayette, the District 7 runners-up, held the Vikings to half of their tournament scoring average, and finished their season with a 29-2 record. Archbishop Wood ended at 22-8.
The game was one of 12 championship games played over the course of three days at the Giant Center in Hershey. Berlin Brothersvalley out of District 5 captured the girls’ Class AA championship, beating Bishop McCort 62-50. Berlin Brothersvalley edged Marian Catholic 57-46 in the quarterfinal round.
Perkiomen Valley, the team that knocked undefeated Hazleton Area out in the quarterfinals, rolled past Upper St. Clair 58-27 to win the girls’ Class 6A crown.
Other girls’ teams capturing state titles included Bishop Guilfoyle (Class A), Loyalsock Township (3A) and Neumann Goretti (4A).
The Neumann Goretti boys made it a clean sweep for their school by beating local favorite Hershey High School 85-71 for the boys’ Class 5A title.
Father Judge, the team that eliminated the Hazleton Area boys in the Class 6A quarterfinals, went on to beat Philadelphia Roman Catholic 71-60 in a 6A championship matchup of District 12 teams.
Other boys’ teams claiming state titles were The Neighborhood Academy (Class A), Linville Hill (2A), Philadelphia West Catholic (3A)
On the Sly
Continued from page 14
and Devon Prep (4A). DID YOU SEE THAT?!!!In addition to the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Tournaments, there’s been a ton of other noteworthy things happening on the national sports scene of late.
* The new torpedo-shaped bats used by several New York Yankees have been all the talk in baseball - mainly because the Yankees are putting up big numbers. Through their first three games, they outscored the Brewers 36-14 with 11 home runs in the three-game series. Not all were attributed to the “fat bats.” Last season’s home run champion, Aaron Judge, hit four home runs in the series but does not use the torpedo bat.
* The Pittsburgh Pirates stole 14 bases in their first three games of the season against Miami, tying the 1984 Cleveland Indians for the most steals in the first three games of an MLB season since 1901. The steals didn’t get the Bucs over the finish line, however. In fact, the Marlins eventually captured what was a four-game series 3-1, winning each of those three games in walk-off fashion.
* Alex Ovechkin moved within five goals of breaking Wayne Gretzky’s NHL all-time record, scoring his 890th career goal Sunday in the Washington Capitals’ 8-5 loss to Buffalo. The 39-year-old Ovechkin has 37 goals this season despite sitting out 16 games due to a broken
fibula. He was to continue his pursuit of Gretzky’s mark of 894 on Tuesday against Boston.
* Denny Hamlin ended a 10-year winless drought at Martinsville Speedway by taking the checkered flag Sunday at NASCAR’s Cup Series event.
* The Penn State men’s hockey team made history on Sunday, beating UConn 3-2 in overtime at the PPL Center in Allentown to advance to the Frozen Four of the NCAA’s Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament for the first time. The Nittany Lions, who have only been a Division I program since 2012-13, now face five-time national champion Boston University in the semifinals on April 10. The other semifinal pits first-timer Western Michigan against defending champion Denver University. The final is April 12.
* Few NBA teams reach the 60-win plateau during a normal 82-game season. This season, however, it appears three will reach the lofty win total. Oklahoma City entered Tuesday’s play with a 63-12 record, and Cleveland (60-15) has joined the Thunder in the 60-and-over club. Defending champion Boston (56-19), which is on a nine-game winning streak, needs four wins over its last seven games to reach 60 for a second straight season.
Visit our website at pocononewspapers.com for in-between-issue stories and events
High School two-sport standout Lincoln Bibla has announced he will continue his academic and athletic careers at the Coast Guard Academy, where he will major in Government and compete in wrestling. Celebrating the announcement at a signing ceremony at Crestwood High School are, seated from left: Marin Bibla, sister; Anna Bibla, mother; Lincoln Bibla; Martin Bibla, father and Crestwood wrestling coach; and Quinn Bibla, sister. Standing: Ron Jeckell, assistant wrestling coach; Tim Linder, assistant football coach; Mariusz Bibla, brother; Magnus Bibla, brother; Dean Ambosie, Crestwood athletic director; and Jim Costello, former Crestwood wrestling coach.
Bibla to continue wrestling career at Coast Guard Academy
Crestwood High School
senior standout student-athlete Lincoln Bibla has announced his intention to continue his academic and athletic careers at the United States Coast Guard Academy.
A two-sport star in both football and wrestling, Bibla will compete in wrestling at the Coast Guard.
“I decided to wrestle because I love the grind that comes with it,” Bibla said. “I believe the physical and mental aspect of wrestling is the toughest of any sport and that it will force me to adapt and overcome. Although I love football, it doesn’t compare to wrestling.”
A key member of the Crestwood wrestling team the past four seasons, Bibla amassed 120 career wins that rank third in school history. Of those 120 victories, an astonishing 96 of them came by pinfall. He was a two-time state qualifier as a junior (189 pounds) and this
past season as a senior (215). Bibla also enjoyed great success on the gridiron, where he was named Wyoming Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year at linebacker, and was named first team All-WVC at both fullback and tight end.
Still, it is wrestling that Bibla has chosen to pursue at the academy.
“I believe the Coast Guard is the best place for me to grow and thrive as a person and wrestler, as well as serve my country,” Bibla said. “I intend on majoring in Government and becoming a lawyer.”
The Coast Guard competes in NCAA Division III, and individually had a national champion and national runner-up in wrestling this season.
After graduating from Crestwood, Bibla will report to the Academy in New London, Conn. on July 14.
Crestwood
Photo by Bob Gaetano
Former Comet star Myers to be enshrined with 41st HOF Class
Former Crestwood High School two-sport athlete Sara Myers and a long list of some of the finest athletes in local sports history will be enshrined in the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame later this year.
The 41st annual induction ceremony is set for June 8 at Mohegan Pennsylvania in Plains Township, with festivities beginning at 3 p.m. with a cocktail hour, followed by dinner at 4 p.m. and the induction ceremony.
Tickets are $70 for adults and $25 for children 12-and-under. Children 2-and-under are free. Tickets and program advertisements are only available through the organization’s website, luzernecountysportshalloffame. com.
Olympic trials swimmers, field hockey national champions and College World Series baseball players are being honored. Volleyball, basketball and football round out the panel of legendary careers from this year’s class of selected athletes and coaches.
It starts with Crestwood’s Myers.
She was a standout field hockey and softball player while at Crestwood. Playing on state-caliber teams led her to a successful collegiate stint at Susquehanna University, where she was named the MAC Player of the Year and led her team to a first ever berth in the NCAA tournament.
Myers later turned to coaching. As the head field hockey coach at the University of Scranton and at Wilkes University, she was named MAC
Freedom Conference Coach of the Year at both colleges.
She is the owner and director of BRAVE Athletics, a four-sport organization that specializes in instruction and adolescent mental health.
The rest of the 41st Hall of Fame Class is as follows:
• Steve Brezna was a threesport standout at Hanover Township, had the honor to start on Joe Paterno’s first Penn State team as the punter in 1966. There he collected two bowl victories and two undefeated seasons.
He returned to coach Hanover High School in multiple sports.
• Dave Shimshock or “Shock” as he was referred to, led his talented star-laden Coughlin team to football greatness. His total season yardage and touchdown accumulation led the state in his senior year. Big 33, All-State, and All-American honors fell his way.
He took that speed and those talents to the College of the Holy Cross, where he started as a running back and strong safety over his four-year career.
• John Simonitis loomed large on the field and on the hardwoods. A late starter in football, he immediately captured the attention of college coaches, while leading his Dallas team to state playoff recognition.
Recruited by the University of Pittsburgh, he earned All-America status, and started for four years falling just short of Tony Dorsett’s record for most games started. He served as team captain in his junior and senior years.
• Monica Wignot , another outstanding Pitt athlete, will be presented for induction
posthumously. The Holy Redeemer graduate by way of Bishop Hoban set the bar for area women’s volleyball and basketball. A two-sport, four-year starter, she captured multiple All-State honors.
While at Pitt, Monica led her volleyball team in numerous categories earning her allconference honors. Upon completion of her volleyball career, as a graduate student, she earned another year of collegiate eligibility and led Pitt basketball, garnering additional ACC records.
• From Wyoming County, Molly O’Malley Watts left her mark in field hockey at both Tunkhannock and Princeton University. This Wyoming Valley Conference MVP earned All-State status while also juggling a successful track and field career.
Once at Princeton, she attained first-team All-America status and U-23 national team membership. Three elusive national championships and two NCAA appearances can be credited to her collegiate career.
• Stu Marvin, a multiple Hall of Fame enshrinee, swam and coached at Bloomsburg University. An 11-time AllAmerican, Marvin parlayed his achievements into coaching the women’s and men’s swim teams at Bloomsburg. His 15-year coaching career included multiple PSAC awards, and the opportunity to coach collegiate champions.
• Another Bloomsburg swimming legend to be honored is Stefanie Williams Moreno. A four-time YMCA National Champion and a 10-time PIAA champion that never lost a race, she went on to become a 28-time All-American swimmer at the University of Georgia.
Being a silver medalist at the Pan-American Games, World Championships, and World University Games are what led her to become an Olympic Trials qualifier in 2000 and 2004. This UGA Hall of Famer is currently the head women’s swimming and diving coach at her alma mater.
• Rounding out the swimmers is Kristin Stretanski DePolo, who was also a Junior YMCA State Champion. At Wyoming Valley West, she attained AllAmerica status while garnering multiple district and state accolades. Her success provided a collegiate career at Villanova University.
A Big East champion, Kristin made her mark both academically and athletically. She turned her sights to coaching at both Wyoming Area and Malvern Prep.
• Nanticoke Area graduate TJ Ziolkowski was an all-conference pick who led his team to two titles.
While at Luzerne County Community College, he became the first player to reach 1,000 points, finishing with 1,369. He later became an MAC champion with Wilkes in 1999, and was elected to the Wilkes University Hall of Fame as a team member in 2019. He currently is the head coach for the LCCC women’s basketball program.
• Baseball standout Jeff Craig of Bishop Hoban became the WVC Most Valuable Player after leading his team to two district titles. He took his talents to Kutztown University, where he led the Golden Bears in many statistical categories.
Three PSAC crowns and a Mid-Atlantic Regional title later, he earned the chance to play in the 2007 NCAA Division II College World Series.
• Finally, Chris Mayerski from Wyoming Valley West is noted for putting the ball out of the park. This All-Conference slugger was known for his power and versatility. He traveled with the Moosic Mets before starting his collegiate career at Wilkes University.
A Freedom Conference Champion, he was ranked nationally in Division III in four power categories. He was inducted into the Wilkes Hall of Fame in 2019 and finished his career by coaching at his alma mater.
