CONTINUING: THE WEATHERLY HERALD ESTABLISHED 1880–145th YEAR, NO. 37
Provizzi, 1998 girls’ softball team inducted into Weatherly Area Athletic Hall of Fame
Hall of Fame: The 1998 Girls’ Softball Team (Schuylkill League Division III champions) and the late Raymond D. Provizzi (Class of 1989) were inducted into the Weatherly Area High School Athletic Hall of Fame during ceremonies Saturday evening at the Weatherly Area Middle School gymnasium. Pictured, from left, are: Amanda Zacharias, Kayla (Romig) Durham, Laine (Richie) Medina, Deana (Petrone) vonFrisch, Leann (Adamczyk) Sites (assistant coach), Margaret Brown (head coach), Susan (Provizzi) Kotansky (Ray’s sister, accepting on his behalf and a member of the ‘98 softball team), James Provizzi (Ray’s brother, accepting on his behalf), Angela (Petrone) Gregory, Tiffany (Labanoski) Tom, Sarah (Koneschusky) Minnick, Dianna Barna, and Joyce (Englehart) Chobert. Additional members of the ‘98 team include Rebecca (Richie) Zielke, Katie Jones, Megan Mrozinski, Danielle Makowiec, Kristin Barna, Kristy Gower, and Genessa (Kellerman) Lowry.
by Steve Stallone Sports Editor
Dignitaries past and present, alumni, former athletes and Hall of Fame members joined together with Wrecker sports fans Saturday evening in saluting the 1998 championship girls’ softball team, and the late Raymond “Ray” Provizzi as the 32nd Class of the Weatherly Area High School Athletic Hall of Fame was unveiled. Following an afternoon banquet, the induction ceremonies were held between the girls’ and boys’ varsity
basketball games against Salem Christian — fittingly a pair of Weatherly Area victories at the Weatherly Area Middle School gymnasium.
Provizzi, a 1989 graduate who starred as a player and later coached basketball at Weatherly, passed away in 2023. His sister Susan and brother James accepted the honor on Ray’s behalf.
Long-time Weatherly Area softball coach Margaret Brown and assistant Leann (Adamczyk) Sites were on hand Saturday
See HALL OF FAME, page 5
WH Chamber plans busy year
by Ruth Isenberg
The Greater White Haven Chamber of Commerce has a lot planned for 2025. President Karen Medvitz spelled it out in a letter that accompanied the annual dues statements, mailed this week.
The first planned event is April 25, Earth Day. Volunteers will work 9 a.m. to Noon to get the community ready for spring.
The next day, April 25, will see the dedication of the new garden at the Caboose, as well as an educational seminar. More on that soon..
And if that wasn’t enough, the Purse, Yeti Cooler and Gift Card Bingo will take place the next day, April 26, 2-5 p.m.
See CHAMBER, page 6
Photo by Steve Stallone
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
Just following the directions given by GPS is one of the excuses that’s been offered for the two trucks that have gotten stuck going up the Hillclimb Road out of Weatherly during the past month. If true, it would be a good idea to erect signs at the bottom of the road (near the Hill Climb pavillion, where drivers would still be able to turn off) that state: Ignore GPS. No tractor trailers beyond this point.
Anyone who has attended a Hill Climb, and especially anyone who has driven that road, knows it is not built for tractor trailers. But drivers from out of the area don’t know, and don’t find out until it’s too late. There really isn’t a good place for a truck to turn around once it has started up the hill. The result is jack-knifed vehicles that block the road.
The most recent incident resulted in a hazardous waste spill, transmission fluid that took a lot of time and material to clean up on the part of local volunteer fire fighters and emergency management personnel. Recovery of their costs will be difficult.
Parts of the Hill Climb are located in three jurisdictions Weatherly Borough, and Lehigh and Lausanne Townships. It would be to everyone’s benefit for them to come up with much clearer warnings about what lies ahead for drivers who don’t already know.
A warming thought
by Ruth Isenberg
It’s probably too late for the storm expected this week, and with luck it won’t be needed, but a reminder that local fire houses and municipal facilities often have generators and offer a place to warm up in the event of loss of power during major storms. Don’t freeze.
Archives
From The Journal-Herald February 3, 2005
Clara R. Holder, Publisher
Front page pictures were of the aftermath of the storm that left nearly a foot of snow. One showed footprints deep into the snow leading to the pavillion at Penn Lake; another was of snow-covered equipment belonging to Linde Enterprises along Hollenback Road, where digging had started on the longawaited sewer line from Penn Lake to the Aqua PA sewage treatment plant in White Haven. It was expected the $2.8 million project would take all of 2005 to complete.
The board of directors of Exploring Audobon’s Lehigh met at Charlie Weaver’s Restaurant, and retained their officers president Jack Koehler, vice-president Earl Kresge, treasurer John Jakoby, and secretary Donnell Stump. On the board were Robert Selert, Yvonne Felker, Harold Pudliner, Brian Oram and Wayne Gower. Diane Madl of the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources served as an ex officio member. The group discussed producing a CD of the tour route, adding signage, and expanding its reach to sell its audio tour casettes and other merchandise.
The Weatherly area was adorned with yellow ribbons on poles and trees, “in anticipation of the homecoming of Leonard Weston Jr., who was scheduled to arrive in Carbon County on February 1.”
Dominic Yanuzzi of Alfred Benesch and Co. attended his first meeting as White Haven Borough engineer. Work left over from previous engineering firm Pennoni & Associates included James Place, repairs needed for the Community Building on Main Street, and the disagreement with the Reading, Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad on the repair of the Susquehanna Street over pass and retaining wall by G&A.
Publication of Volume VI of The History of Carbon County was announced by author Thomas D. Eckhart. This volume covered the period between the 1930s and the 1960s. It included this gem “Bright’s Store in Lansford began a Mother’s Day program in 1939 with 17 ladies, and by the 1960s, over 650 attended annually while a hundred 70-year old and older ladies were denied admittance because of space limitations.”
Ronald J. Sheehan announced his bid for re-election as Carbon County treasurer, looking to serve a second term.
Mary Jane Saras was promoted to Director at The Country Place Retreat and Conference Center in Foster Township, outside White Haven.
Members of the Crestwood High School Key Club were pictured at the third annual Day of Service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, sponsored by the Commission on Economic Opportunity, preparing supplemental food packages and emergency meal packages for low-income senior citizens.
Molly Law, a freshman at the University of Rhode Island, was awarded a full six-year scholarship to pursue a Doctorate in Pharmacy at the school.
Stallone’s Pigskin Picks chose the Philadelphia Eagles to win the Super Bowl in Jacksonville, 30-24 over New England, provided Terrell Owens played. (Sadly, he was wrong. Final score was Patriots 24-Eagles 21.)
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in White Haven was holding an all-you-can-eat pancake and sausage supper, while the St. Jude School in Mountain Top slated a Lenten fish fry, the Mountainview Youth Group scheduled a spaghetti dinner, and White Haven United Methodist Church was selling pierogies throughout Lent.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters Testamentary have been granted by the Register of Wills of Luzerne County, PA, on January 2, 2025, in the Estate of Bernadine Ann Banaszek, a/k/a Bernadine A. Banaszek, late of Wilkes-Barre City, who died October 25, 2024, to Patricia Ann Taggart and Kathleen Ann Jones, Executrices. All persons indebted to said Estate are requested to make payment and those having claims to present them immediately to:
SENAPE LAW
James V. Senape, Jr., Esquire
Catherine A. McGovern, Esquire
Michael B. Senape, Esquire 612-614 Main Street, P. O. Box 179 Freeland PA 18224-0179
CACE opens registration
The Crestwood Adult Continuing Education team announces that registration is now open for the Spring 2025 semester. A Smoking Cessation class is free to the community, and for the first time, there are three “You and Me” craft classes that will be open to children under the age of 18 when accompanied by an adult.
More Spring classes include American Sign Language, Cryptocurrency, Introduction to BBQ, The Wonderful and Versatile Chamomile, Qi Gong, Painting with Watercolors, and Estate Planning.
Classes begin March 3, so check out our full brochure for more details. Hard copies of the brochure are available at the White Haven post office, library and market.
Check or money order must be mailed in, and material fees are payable to the instructor if applicable the first night of class. Waivers are required for all students each semester.
As always, we are always seeking instructors who have a talent to share with the community, and inquiries can be directed to cacecoordinator2@ gmail.com.
pauren01@pauinsurance.com 606 E. Butler Drive, Freeland (Freeland-Drums Highway)
Freeland Akers named to council
by Jim Dino
Freeland Borough Council has a new member, and council is looking for more full-time police officers.
Meeting in regular monthly session January 16, council appointed Frederick Akers to
the council seat vacated by the resignation of Marilyn Calderon Cruz.
Council also voted to advertise to hire full-time police officers.
The next regular meeting of council will be February 20 at 6 p.m. at the borough building on Fern Street.
White Haven Home Town
Hero Banners on sale now
2025 Banners are available to order now. Call, stop by or email the borough building at secretary@whitehavenborough. org for the forms.
Flags are $200 and include artwork, printing, hardware, and
perpetual care for the lifetime of banner.
All orders must be received no later than April 1, and will be displayed starting over the Fourth of July. Call with any questions 570-443-9129 ext 4.
WH Little League registration open online
Registration is posted online for the 2025 Little League season in White Haven. The league is requiring the use of the new format. Please visit https://leagues.bluesombrero. com/whitehavenareall to go to our web page. From here click on registration info and available programs. It will ask
you to create an account. From there the registration should be straightforward.
If you have any questions please email whitehavensportsassociation@ gmail.com
Registration will be open for the month of February and will close March 1.
obituAries
SUSANNE E. KENNELLY
Susanne E. Kennelly, 86, of Kidder Township, died on Wednesday, January 22, 2205, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. Born in Phillipsburg, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Mary Stagle. She was employed as a nurse, prior to retirement. She enjoyed spending time with family and shopping.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sons, Greg Toth and Kenneth Sandt Jr.; daughter, Kandy Keiper; grandson, Gene Febbo III; and brother Michael Stangle. She is survived by her husband Frank Kennelly; daughters, Jody Briscoe and her husband Kenneth of Memphis, TN, Jamie Handley and her husband Kevin of Bradenton, FL, and Kerry Diehl and her husband Douglas of Williams Township; grandchildren,
Kory, Michael, Dallas, Deanne, Ricky, Amber, Ryan, Corey, and Benjamin; great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Remi, Preston, Carys, Ethan, Audrina, Lillian, Grayson, Rayah, and Sophia; brother, Richard Stangle; nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Mass will be held in St. Patrick’s Church, White Haven in the spring.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Lehman Family Funeral Service, Inc. White Haven.
All contributions can be made to the Susan Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
Carbon County property transfers through Jan. 19
Kidder Township
Timothy M. Hertkorn to Rebekah Nussbaum, Philadelphia, property at 8 Jack Rabbit Run, White Haven, $265,000.
Robert V. Koble to Sapphire Luxury Rentals, LLC, Burlington, Iowa, two transactions, property on River Road and at 40 River Road, $201,703, and property on River Road, $22,885.
Thomas J. Heinz to John W. Orr, Shamong, New Jersey, Lot 55A, Golden Oaks Village, $288,500.
Cynthia Coombe to Alyssa McElroy, Blakeslee, property at 72 Black Bear Pass, White Haven, $164,300.
ACS offers symbol of hope, daffodils
Why daffodils?
One of the first flowers of spring, the daffodil is a symbol of hope. To the American Cancer Society, this flower represents the hope we all share for a future where cancer is no longer a lifethreatening disease.
Dollars raised through Daffodil Days campaigns help the American Cancer Society fund groundbreaking cancer research, provide up-to-date cancer information and education, advocate for public policies that benefit the community, and provide services to improve the quality of life for patients and their
families.
The Greater Hazleton Area American Cancer Society is pleased to announce that these Mini-Potted Daffodils can be ordered from now through Wednesday, February 19, and are available for $10 each. Payment is due with the order and is payable to American Cancer Society.
Order from Jane at 570-9473266 or dough@ptd.net
Pots will be available for pick up on Friday, March 21, from 2-4 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 201 W. Broad Street, HazletonV(delivery to your business is available).
Mapeel Chang to Jonathan Taylor Felter, 226 River Road, White Haven, property at 226 River Road, $210,000.
Joseph P. Governali to Silver Hospitality, LLC, West Chester, property at 9 Quail Run, Lake Harmony, $745.000.
Craig R. McCaffrey to Joseph A. Lannutti, Springfield, property at 4 Beachwood Court, Lake Harmony, $314,900.
James W. Brown to Phenol Armand, Bay Shore, New Yor, property at 103 Pocono Road, Albrightsville, $184,000.
Mario Crellana to Grzegorz Kruiszewski, Woodland Par, New Jersey, property at 89 Split Rock Road, Lake Harmony, $555,000.
Preservation Graystones, LLC, to Donna Bell, Haddonfield, New Jersey, 17.03 acres, Trexler Meadow Road, Graystone Preserve Subdivision, $900,000.
Thomas Stanton to Lake Harmony House, LLC, Media, property at 41 Skye Drive, Lake Harmony, $513,311.60.
Russell C. Swisher to William J. Liaw, Allentown, property at 59 Midlake Drive, Unit I-250, Lake Harmony, $510,000.
Kathleen M. Shamenek to Alice Mary Morris, Lutherville Timonium, Maryland, property at 33 Red Fox Court, Lake Harmony, $344,000.
Packer Township
Wayne Winters to Vicki M. Winters, 1253 Brenkman Drive, Weatherly, Lot 2, Charles W. and Valeria Funk Final Subdivision Plan, $1.
Weatherly
Stephen J. Bartol to Susan Bartol, Montclair, New Jersey, property at 607 W. Main St., $1. Virgil Herman to Robert Bialous, Staten Island, New York, property at 327 Entwistle St., $78,000.
stories and events
Hall of Fame
Continued from page 1
along with several players from that ‘98 Schuylkill League Division III championship softball team, which delivered the first division title in program history.
The following are the stories of Hall of Fame inductees Ray Provizzi and the 1998 girls’ softball team, as they appeared in the program for Saturday’s induction ceremonies:
RAY PROVIZZI
Raymond “Ray” Provizzi was a standout athlete at Weatherly High School, playing both baseball and basketball throughout his high school years.
A member of the Class of 1989, Ray left an indelible mark on his school’s athletic history. As captain of the basketball team his senior year, Ray’s leadership was undeniable. He led the team in both rebounds and assists, showcasing not only his skill but also his dedication and commitment to his teammates.
His ability to inspire and motivate those around him, both on and off the court. was a testament to his strong character and team-first mentality.
Additionally, Ray was a proud member of the National Honor Society, excelling in both academics and leadership during his time at Weatherly.
After graduating, Ray attended Penn State University where he earned a bachelor of science degree in Ceramic Engineering. However, his passion for sports and his love for his community would always remain a central part of his life.
In 2000, Ray returned to Weatherly athletics as the junior high boys’ basketball coach alongside his good friend, Corey Gerhart. Together they led the team to an extraordinary 15-1 season. It was a season filled with excitement and pride, and the teamwork and commitment shown by Ray and Corey helped shape many young athletes’ lives. Ray continued his dedication to coaching the Weatherly junior high team until 2003, and his impact on the students and athletes continued long after his
coaching career ended.
Even after stepping down from his coaching role, Ray remained a constant supporter of Weatherly athletics, attending games and supporting the Wreckers year after year. Ray was also a regular participant in the Weatherly Alumni Games and the Summer Rec Basketball League at Eurana Park. His involvement in these events reflected his continued love for the game and his desire to stay connected to his community. Ray was always a fierce competitor, even in the alumni games, and his passion for basketball never waned.
In honor of Ray’s legacy, a scholarship has been established for high school seniors headed to college who excel in the classroom as well as in athletics, ensuring that his impact on education and athletics will continue to inspire generations to come.
Though Ray tragically passed away on May 5, 2023, his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be missed, but never forgotten, by his family, friends, and the Weatherly Area High School community.
1998 SOFTBALL TEAM
The spring of 1998 was a pretty special time to be a Lady Wrecker softball player, for they made history.
After falling short in the 1997 playoffs in a 4-3 loss to TriValley, the Lady Wreckers had something to prove the following year. They were determined to get back to the playoffs again, and that is exactly what they did. In doing so, they became the first team in program history to secure the Schuylkill League Division III championship, a feat not matched again for another 23 years.
The ‘98 Lady Wreckers were led by head coach Margaret Brown and assistant Leann (Adamczyk) Sites, with Lynne A. Dolinsky serving as scorekeeper. The team was fueled by pitcher Rebecca (Richie) Zielke and catcher Amanda Zacharias. In the field providing tough defense and support were Katie Jones, Tiffany (Labanoski) Tom, Megan Mrozinski, Joyce (Englehart) Chobert, Laine (Richie) Madina, Danielle Makowiec and Kayla (Romig)
Durham. Adding depth were Dianna Barna, Kristin Barna, Kristy Gower, Angela (Petrone) Gregory, Susan (Provizzi) Kotansky, Genessa (Kellerman) Lowry, Sarah (Koneschusky) Minnick and Deana (Petrone) vonFrisch.
The Lady Wreckers began the season with wins over Shenandoah Valley and Williams Valley before falling to Schuylkill Haven by one run. From there, they went on a seven-game winning streak with the help of the pitching dominance of Beckie Richie. The Lady Wreckers continued to fight for the division title they wanted so badly, beating out rival schools like Marian, Jim Thorpe and Panther Valley to name a few.
The sixth-seeded Lady Wreckers captured their firstround game in the District 11 Class AA playoffs with a 3-0 win over Mahanoy Area, with Richie outdueling Megan D’Angelo in the playoff opener.
Richie struck out 11, walked five and allowed just two hits as the Lady Wreckers avenged their only division loss that season en route to the Division III
championship.
Tiffany Labanoski singled in the bottom of the second, went to third on an error and scored on Amanda Zacharias’ sacrifice fly. It was the only run Weatherly would need to secure its spot in the quarterfinals. However, the Lady Wreckers weren’t done.
They scored their final two runs an inning later when Danielle Makowiec walked and came all the way around on an error off Megan Mrozinski’s bat. Katie Jones followed with a single to bring in Mrozinski with the final run.
Following this huge victory over Mahanoy Area, the Lady Wreckers were escorted through town on top of a Citizens Fire Company truck in celebration. This started the fire truck escort tradition that continues to this day when the Wreckers or Lady Wreckers achieve the same greatness.
Although the Lady Wreckers fell to Pen Argyl 9-1 in the quarterfinal round, they ended their season with a 17-5 record, the program’s first division championship, and a district playoff victory.
Weatherly Area Sports Hall of Fame Inductees (By Year)
1991 - John Andrefsky, Carl Duser, Ron Duser, Paul West, Frank Romano, Pete Garber, Joseph Wileman, Jack Rothacker.
1992 - William Gicking, Earl “Pete” Allison, Charles Murray, Edward O’Donnell, Grant “Pat” Searfoss.
1993 - Lewis Kistler, Henry Panckeri Jr., Earl William Knepper, Russel Bubeck, Emerson West.
1994 - Tony Leppler, Ed Pfeiffer, Warren Seigendall, Pete McMonigle, Keith Tyler, Barry Knepper, Tony Romano, John Seigendall.
1995 - Herbert Kelshaw, Donald Garber, Hugh Koehler, Conrad Pfeiffer, Charles Youngcourt, Walter Ebling.
1996 - Harold Rohde, John Hartz, Barry Wargula, Reid Rohn, Clayton Heiney.
1997 - Jeff Harris, Raymond Fields, Louis Romano Sr., Michael Setzer, Charles Potter, Sue Sernak.
1998 - No induction class
1999 - William Hart Jr., Kermit Hinkle, Thomas Figas, Clifford Burkey, Tony Antinozzi.
2000 - Charles Scott, Jack Hunter, Robert Van Horn, William Doney, Gary Walker, Megan Mrozinski.
2001 - Jeff Pleban, Ed Hadzick, John Hinkle, Donald Pfeiffer, Sheila Moser, Scott Coll.
2002 - Troy Gregory, Daniel Helker, Forrest Hunter, Brent Pfeiffer, Barry Barbush.
2003 - Brian Sartori, Kevin Peiser, David Jemo Jr., Phil Jeffries, Robert Ebling.
2004 - Joseph Kurtz, Paul Junas, Ronald Kelshaw, John Hart, Leo Balas.
2005 - Robert Pugh, Nick Jemo, Jay Hess, John A. Cherba, Mark Reiner, Paul Burkey.
2006 - John Chernansky, Carl Mondero, Brian Pfeiffer, Randy Richardson, Amy Sandt.
2007 - Kathy Frailey Ziller, Butch Ebinger, Gail LaMont, Marshal Sarley, Ron Sandt, Gary Gerhard.
2008 - John T. Kanyak, Dave Novitsky, John Parker, David N. Jemo Sr., Edward Wargula.
2009 - Ellen Katona, Ernie Powell, Rick Van Horn, Camille Mondero Hayes, Joe Balas, Timothy K. Wagner.
2010 - Diane Stump Polchin, Jack Earley, Luke Medico, Colin J. Mondero, Barry C. Searfoss, Margaret Brown.
2011 - William T. Ravina Jr., Rebecca R. Richie, James Drew Suitch, Aaron Carlyon Russell, Matt Romberger.
2012 - Wayne Wagner, Dan Hergert, Bob Nenstiel, Ron Novack.
2013 - David C. Russell, George Koneschusky, Ryan Nenstiel, 1947 Boys’ Basketball Team.
2014 - Dan C. Andrews, Donna M. Carlson, Lauren Kelshaw, Richard Ritter, 1976 Boys’ Basketball Team.
2015 - Megan Graham, Paul Michael Miller, 1967 Boys’ Basketball Team.
2016 - 1986 Girls’ Basketball Team.
2017 - Gene Lash Sr., 1986 Boys’ Basketball Team.
2018 - Keith J. Barna, Lisa Jones, Thomas Carlyon Russell.
2019 - William “Sammy” Knepper, 1978 Golf Team.
2020 - Kyle Carter Minnick, 1988 and 1989 Boys’ Cross Country Teams.
2021 - No induction class due to pandemic
2022 - No induction class due to pandemic
2023 - Austin Charles Gregory, 2001-02 Boys’ Basketball Team.
2024 - 1990 and 2000 Girls’ Cross Country Teams.
2025 - Ray Provizzi, 1998 Girls’ Softball Team.
Continued from page 1
May will bring the first of three Main Street Market Days, on the 17th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
A Spring Mingle is planned for June, date to be announced, for Chamber members to get together socially.
The Jam Below the Dam is back, an expanded street festival on July 25 from 4 to 8 p.m., and July 26 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The Summer Main Street Market is set for August 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Car Show returns on September 6 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the Art Walk will be held on September 27, from 12-5 p.m.
The autumn Harvest Market is scheduled for October 12, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Activities will be happening all day and into the evening on Small Business Saturday, November 29, and Chamber members will top it off with a Christmas Mingle sometime in December.
Chamber members have the chance to promote their businesses at markets and events, and to sponsor specific events. Membership is $75 per year for businesses or organizations, and $30 per year for individuals.
Members are included on the live virtual tour map on the official chamber website, and listed on the website with logo and links. To learn more, email info@whitehavenchamber.com
librAry corNer
The White Haven Area Community Library is scheduled to reopen this week once the repairs are completed to the heating system. You will find the latest information about our reopening on our Facebook page.
February is Love Your Library Month. During the month, you’ll find a tree beautifully decorated with hearts in the lobby area. The hearts reveal an item needed to better serve our library patrons. If you are able, please choose a heart, purchase the item, and return it to the library. Your generosity and support are greatly appreciated.
There will be a Valentine’s Bingo on February 8 and a Kindness Event, where you can paint rocks and make friendship bracelets on February 22. On February 15 there will be Lego/ Pokémon Club as well as free play for kids aged 7 through 15. The above activities are from 12 to 1:30.
On February 15 from 10:15 to 11, there will also be Tot Time with Ms. Victoria. She will read a story and lead a craft. Children aged 6 and under are invited. Parents are asked to stay and enjoy the activity with their child.
Light snacks are provided for all kid’s activities. Bring your own water bottle.
The Journal-Herald costs $45 per year outside of Carbon and Luzerne Counties; $40 in Carbon & Luzerne Counties—less than buying at the store. Send the form below with your check, or call 570-215-0204 xt304 to order and pay with a credit card. Make check payable to: CANWIN Mail to: 211 Main St., White Haven PA 18661 Send The Journal-Herald to:
NAME
ADDRESS
If a gift, sign the card from:
The Scrabble Club is planned for February 6 and 20 at 6 p.m. Both novice and experienced players are welcome to attend. Bring your Scrabble dictionary if you have one. Cheat sheets with helpful two and three letter words will be provided! It’s a fun and relaxing non-competitive group.
The Fiber Arts Group is planned for February 13 and 27 from 10 a.m. to Noon. Join this fun and friendly group while you work on your knitting, crochet or cross stitch projects. Thinking about learning one of these crafts? The folks in the group would be happy to provide some start up help.
The Romantasy Book Club will meet on February 19 at 6:30. This book club is open to adults aged 18 and older. The books are available in the library in hardcover, or if you prefer, you can borrow a preloaded Kindle. Check our Facebook page for the latest book choice.
WHACL 2024 Souvenir Calendars are free and available by stopping at the circulation desk. The calendars contain pictures and a history of the borough for you to enjoy.
Please mark your calendars for the Musicians of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Chamber Music Society Concert on Sunday, March 16, at 3 p.m. Their third annual concert will feature works by Felix Mendelssohn, Arthur Foote, Amy Beach and Luigi Boccherini. Artists Leslie Cullen, flute; John Vaida, violin; Arthur Moeller, violin, Amy Iwazumi, viola; and Lisa Caravan, cello will perform in the intimate setting of the library’s John Murphy Room, which in past years, has delighted sell-out audiences. Seating is limited. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at the library or by calling 570-443-8776. Credit cards are accepted. Doors will open at 2 p.m, and refreshments will be served prior to the concert.
The WHAC Library follows the Crestwood School District for weather related closings. If the school is closed, the library is closed. For weather events on days when school is not in session, the decision to close the library will be made at least one hour prior to its scheduled opening and posted on the library Facebook page.
Eva Eroh is WAHS Senior
of the Month for January
Eva Eroh, daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth Eroh, Weatherly, has been named Senior of the Month for January at Weatherly Area High School. Eva serves as vice president of the high school band, vice president of SGA, and secretary of FBLA. Eva is also a member of the high school chorus, the girls’ soccer team, the Scholastic Scrimmage team, the Drama
Club, the Interact Club, the Kindness Club, and Kufro’s Closet.
In the community, Eva is a member of the local Rotary Club, and acts as an Exchange Student Mentor and the Rotary Youth Exchange social media coordinator. Eva spent the 2023-2024 school year living and studying in Germany, through the Rotary Youth Exchange. Eva is also the president of the Carbon County 4-H Livestock Club, and a volunteer at the Carbon County Fair.
Sponsors for the month of January are Heritage Hill, and Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home and Cremation Services, both in Weatherly.
PennDOT to Host ‘REAL
ID Day’ Feb. 10 at Hazleton Driver License Center
To help ensure Pennsylvanians are prepared for the upcoming federal REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has announced that it will hold special REAL ID service hours at its Hazleton Driver License Center at 1052 South Church Street, Hazleton on February 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More than 2.5 million Pennsylvanians have chosen to opt into the REAL ID program. Getting a REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, but beginning May 7, 2025, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant license/identification card, or another form of federally acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to:
• Board domestic commercial flights.
• Enter a military base.
• Enter certain federal facilities that require a federally acceptable form of ID. Federal REAL ID regulations require that PennDOT must verify the below documents:
• Proof of Identity: examples include an original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics with a raised/embossed seal, or a valid, unexpired U.S. Passport.
• Proof of Social Security Number.
• Two Proofs of Current, Physical PA Address.
• Proof of all Legal Name Changes.
When a customer gets their first REAL ID product, they will pay a one-time fee of $30, plus the applicable renewal fee (the current renewal fee is $39.50 for a four-year non-commercial driver’s license and $42.50 for a photo ID). The expiration date of their initial REAL ID product will include any time remaining on their existing non-REAL ID product, plus an additional four years, unless the customer is over 65 and has a two-year license. This means that the customer won’t lose time that they’ve already paid for. After the initial REAL ID product expires, the customer will pay no additional fee beyond regular renewal fees.
After customers present the proper documentation and pay the applicable fee, customers may obtain a REAL ID-compliant product by: Receiving the product in the mail within 15 days, if application was made at a Driver License Center, such as the Hazleton Driver License Center. Receiving the product over the counter, if application was made at one of PennDOT’s 15 REAL ID Centers.
Weatherly Area Middle School honor roll
The following students have been named to the second period honor roll at Weatherly Area Middle School.
PRINCIPAL’S
HONOR LIST
The criteria for students to earn Principal’s Honors is to attain an average grade of 95 or better in major subjects with no grade below 90 in any subject taken:
7TH GRADE: Rose Alfieri, Ismael Almanzar, MaBella Gerhard, Elsie Gower, Lilah Gower, Dinah Janiec, Evan Janiec, Mackenzie Klem, Mikayla Kuntz, Carter Minnick, Emma Moyer, Emma Posser, and Mikayla Pugh
8TH GRADE: Levi Aneskevich, Brandon Antolick, Melina Ayala, Elizabeth DiGennaro, Jillian Esposito, Maci Kane, Alexia Kehler, Willow Lare, Madison Makowiec, and Ava Zimmerman
FIRST HONORS
The criteria for students to earn First Honors is to attain
ALA News Notes
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 360 in Weatherly will hold its monthly meetings at the post home starting 4 p.m. Please note the time change for the winter months. The winners of the Americanism essay contest were recognized at the February 3 meeting.
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 360 in Weatherly will hold the monthly unbaked pizza sale on Friday, February 21. Pick up is 4-6 p.m. at the post home. Deadline to order pizza is Friday, February 14. A regular
pizza is $13 and additional toppings are $3 each. Toppings include extra cheese, 3-cheese, mushroom, sausage, and pepperoni. Contact Georgia Farrow directly to order your pizza at 570-427-4527. The dates in the borough flyer for the pizza sale were incorrect.
REMINDER: The American Legion Auxiliary Persian Donut Sale Pick-up will be Friday, February 14, from 12-6 p.m. and Saturday, February 15, from 10 a.m.-Noon. The cost for the donuts is $3 each.
an average grade of 90 or better in major subjects with no grade below an 85 in any subject taken:
7TH GRADE: Riley Bachert, Stephen Delman IV, Sophia Durham, Corbin Gerhard, Gianna Guerra, Athier Guzman, Troy Holman, Aliyah Michaels, Katherine Morales, Halena Williams, and Camden Zimmerman
8TH GRADE: Linda Houser, Katie Knock, Avery McLaurin, Ella Mohr, and Derek Moyer
SECOND HONORS
The criteria for students to earn Second Honors is to attain an average grade of 85-89 in major subjects with no grade below an 80 in any subject taken:
8TH GRADE: Ashley Bingham, Kendall Gerhard, Brianna Kiddish, Jaxson Schaeffer, Trinity Spence, John Thomas, and Riley Zawilski
Valentine’s Day at Heritage Hill
Heritage Hill will celebrate Valentine’s Day with an event, the King & Queen of Hearts Dance, on Friday, February 14, at 2 p.m. The community is invited to attend an afternoon of music, dance, and refreshments. Attendees will experience a live performance by tribute artist Kevin MacIntire, who will perform the songs of Frank Sinatra.
Refreshments will be served. Those interested in attending are requested to RSVP by February 12. Reservations can be made by calling Rachael or Matthew at 570-420-7335.
Hazleton Art League presents February dual art exhibition
The Hazleton Art League is pleased to announce the opening of its February dual art exhibition, Emociones y Memorias / Immortal Splendor: The Art of Wander Matos and Gary Jones. Featuring the works of two distinguished artists—Wander Matos, a Dominican painter, and Gary Jones, an African American graphic artist—the exhibit highlights their unique styles, which beautifully complement one another. Departing from the usual First Friday schedule, this exhibition will run from January 31 through February 23.
On Sunday, February 23, from 1–3 p.m, the exhibition will conclude with Acoustic Jam, where local musicians will perform live in the Main Gallery. This event is free and open to the public.
The gallery is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday
and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m., remaining closed on Mondays and holidays. Visitors are encouraged to explore the League’s diverse range of classes, programs, and events by following along on Facebook, Instagram (@ hazletonsartleague), and Bluesky.
Membership in the Hazleton Art League is an excellent way to support the local arts community. Annual membership for 2025 is just $30, with sustaining memberships available for as little as $10 per month. For more information, visit the Hazleton Art League at the Hayden Family Center for the Arts, 31 W. Broad Street, Hazleton, PA 18201, or contact us at www. hazletonartleague.org or 570-455-3333.
Damenti’s Ice Bar
The Hazleton Art League is continuing its partnership with Damenti’s Restaurant in West Hazleton for the annual Ice Bar event, ICE4U2C, for the month of February. Running from January through March 2025, this unique winter attraction features breathtaking ice sculptures crafted by master carvers, along with artwork from local artists available for sale.
The Ice Bar tradition began in 1986 when Kevin McDonald built an ice castle for his daughter’s third birthday. “Helen and I believe the Ice Bar is a true asset to our community,” Kevin said. Proceeds from raffle and art sales will benefit the Hazleton Art League’s programs and volunteers are welcome.
Visitors are also encouraged to explore Emociones y Memorias/Immortal Splendor, the Art of Wander Matos and Gary Jones, at the Hazleton Art League. This dual art exhibition honors Black History Month and Dominican Independence. For more information, call 570-455-3333 or visit hazletonartleague.org
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: lehighgorgecampground.com 570-443-9191
Hall of Fame night victory for Wrecker girls shows power of perseverance
by Steve Stallone Sports Editor
On most nights, the Weatherly Area girls dress six players for their varsity basketball games. Other times they may only have five healthy bodies for a 32-minute game.
They easily could have thrown in the towel on the 2024-25 season, and no one would have faulted them.
They didn’t.
With just two proven varsity players among the six, the Lady Wreckers pressed on and attacked the season head-on.
Amid a lot of one-sided losses and trying times, they have continued to move forward. They’ve become more competitive. And, they are starting to be rewarded for their perseverance and hard work.
On Saturday, the Lady Wreckers rallied from a sixpoint halftime deficit to defeat Salem Christian 34-28 on Hall of Fame Night in Weatherly.
The victory marked the third of the season for the Lady Wreckers, who also own wins over Nativity and CMVT and find themselves poised to secure the third seed for the upcoming District 11/2 Class A tournament.
“We honestly got this season together just five days before our first scrimmage, and half our team has never played before,” said junior Kelly Reiner, the only returning starter from a year ago.
“We’ve definitely seen a lot of improvement over the season. You can see how the girls are learning and how they stay calm, not getting in their own heads. And I’m glad everyone’s starting to score.”
Reiner’s scoring and leadership has been paramount to the Lady Wreckers’ success and their ability to keep competing against all odds.
The past week alone has been even harder, as the team had been forced to play five games in a seven-day stretch due to
Weatherly Area’s Courtney Snyder (54) and teammate Kelly Reiner (23) battle inside for a rebound with Salem Christian’s Sophia Marinari (32) during Saturday evening’s non-league girls’ basketball game in Weatherly. The Lady Wreckers earned a 34-28 win on Hall of Fame Night.
Photo by Steve Stallone
second half down 19-13, but ready to respond.
“It was honestly really frustrating. I was trying so hard and they were just not falling,” noted Reiner, who had just three points and two fouls in the opening half.
“We had a lot of good looks but our shots weren’t falling, and their shots were falling,” added Weatherly Area head coach Jason Kane. “Kelly picked up two quick fouls, so pressing was out the door. We just had to weather the storm.”
“We had to get the ball to the middle because they were leaving the middle wide open,” stated Reiner. “We have plays to help us get to those situations and they did work. (Salem) went to a box-and-one and we were prepared. It actually turned out well.”
Reiner came out on fire in the third quarter, hitting three quick shots including the first of her four 3-pointers on the night for a 7-0 run that put the Lady Wreckers in front at 20-19.
Reiner’s corner triple at the 3:43 mark made it 23-21 before Salem Christian tied it at 23 on a Kenzie Van Norden basket. But Reiner buried her third straight 3-pointer to put Weatherly in front (26-25) by quarter’s end.
makeup games from earlier in the year.
Still, it didn’t stop the Lady Wreckers from putting their best
foot forward on Saturday.
After a slow first half in which shots rimmed in and out, the Lady Wreckers opened the
“The second half was my half,” Reiner said with a smile. “I was able to get those fast breaks, hit
See WEATHERLY GIRLS, page 11
Weatherly Girls
Continued from page 10
those shots, and things were falling.”
Reiner’s corner swish to start the fourth quarter, and a steal and layup off the press upped the Lady Wrecker lead to 30-25. And although she endured six straight misses at the free throw line, Reiner hit 4-of-6 in the final two minutes to ice the 34-28 victory.
Sophomore forward Courtney Snyder added eight points and double-figure rebounds for the Lady Wreckers, and the rest of the squad contributed on the defensive end as well as on the glass.
“Courtney dropped eight tonight. She was good down low and we were able to move the ball, and I think it was good for everyone,” said Reiner, who finished with a game-high 24 points. She is averaging around 10 points per game to lead the team.
“I was so proud of the girls because I can tell we grew over the season,” said Kane. “Normally in a game like that they would have panicked, but they didn’t do that tonight. They showed a lot of poise and they played awesome.
“Kelly stepped up huge, and everybody did. It was a good team effort, and most nights it is. This is our third game in
three nights, but they played phenomenal.”
The Lady Wreckers have three regular-season games remaining, including Wednesday at Nativity and Saturday at MMI Prep. They have a home makeup game with Lincoln Leadership on Feb. 10. One win will lock up a playoff spot in the four-team tournament.
Less than three months after wondering if they’d have a team this season, the Lady Wreckers are now talking about the playoffs, and about next season and beyond.
“Since it’s my junior year I really wanted to keep going because I’ve played my whole life since kindergarten. I needed to play,” Reiner said Saturday. “Everyone dreams of being the senior with the banner on the wall. It’s only one year. We just had to get through this year because there’s eighth-graders coming up that are ready.
“But you can see that they’re learning and improving and hopefully it will transfer to next season. That’s when our revenge will happen. We’ll get our comeback.”
With Reiner’s talents and her leadership, they are heading in the right direction.
“Kelly’s been huge,” stated Kane, now in his third season as head coach. “She’s the only one with any kind of basketball experience, from biddy basketball all the way up to now. She’s a great leader. She helps coach the girls at practice and cheers them on, and she tells
them when they’re not doing stuff right. She’s an extra set of eyes out there.
“She and Abby (Weston) were the two freshmen when I started coaching. They were a big part then, and both of them are a big part now.”
Reiner said she embraces the leadership role that she has, and is hoping that together the Lady Wreckers can keep the program moving forward.
“I try to push the girls to do their best,” she said. “I need them to learn because they’re not going to learn unless they make the mistakes, and you just have to be there to tell them ‘It’s ok, you just have to do this.’ And you can see that they’re learning, because they keep improving.”
When looking back on this season a few years from now, this group of Lady Wreckers may be looked on as the team that saved the program.
SALEM CHRISTIAN (28) Karmazyn 0 0-0 0, Rice 3 0-0 6, Walls 0 0-0 0, Ogden 1 0-0 2, Van Norden 4 0-0 8, Held 4 0-0 10, Marinari 1 0-2 2. Totals: 13 0-2 28.
Williams Valley 63, Weatherly Area 11 On Monday of this week, it was the Sage Smeltz show.
Smeltz poured in a whopping 40 points on 19 field goals and a pair of free throws as host Williams Valley cruised to the Schuylkill League Division 2 win.
Christian 29, Weatherly Area 16 — Northumberland Christian held the Lady Wreckers to just four baskets, and rode a 15-point night from Ava Phillips for the non-league road win last week in Weatherly.
Kelly Reiner scored 11 points for the Lady Wreckers.
NORTHUMBERLAND CHRISTIAN (29) — Conner 1 1-2 3,
Tri-Valley
31, Weatherly Area 17 — Avery Miller scored 11 of her gamehigh 16 points in the opening half as Tri-Valley opened a 21-11 halftime lead on its way to the Schuylkill League Division 2 victory last week in Weatherly. Faith Artz added nine points to the winning total for Tri-Valley.
Kelly Reiner’s 11 points topped Weatherly Area.
Mahanoy
Area 47, Weatherly Area 14 — Felicia Bro scored 11 points, Ella Connley tallied 10 and Mahanoy Area eased to the Schuylkill League Division 2 win last week. Kelly Reiner scored a teamhigh 10 points, and Courtney Snyder added the other four for Weatherly Area.
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DOWN
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Weatherly Boys Basketball Roundup
Wreckers roll, continue to make big strides in 2024-25
by Steve Stallone Sports Editor
The Weatherly Area boys have taken some really big steps this basketball season.
Heading into this final week of the regular season, the Wreckers have already increased their win total by 10 over last season. In addition, they’ve qualified for the Schuylkill League playoffs for the first time in recent memory, and have clinched the No. 4 seed for the District 11/2 Class A Tournament.
They’ve gone from 2-21 to 12-8 under second-year head coach Luke Medico, posting an 8-5 mark in Schuylkill League play after going without a league win last season.
That would be enough for most teams to pat themselves on the back, high-five one another, and consider it a job well done.
Not these Wreckers. They don’t believe they’ve plateaued. Not by a longshot.
Even after Saturday’s 61-21 blowout win over Salem Christian on Hall of Fame Night, the Wreckers refused to get too high. They realize they are still climbing, they can be better still, and that they are just scratching the surface of what they could be.
“It definitely feels amazing. It’s nice to know that we’re finally getting the wins that we deserve, and that all the hard work we put in is working out the way we need it to,” said junior point guard Ian McKeegan, who scored 25 points on Saturday.
“When I played my freshman
year, it was really rough. I hated losing all the time. I always came from winning so when we were losing, it made me really mad,” he continued. “Now it’s like I’ve seen the wins and I’ve seen how far we’ve come, but I definitely think we’ve got to keep it going because I don’t want to think about it like we did enough. There’s definitely more work to do.
“I feel like there’s always room for improvement. We always have to improve to be a better team. There’s always a team better than we are, so as long as we keep practicing and keep doing the work, we should be good.”
Medico likes what he sees out of his young team, a team with only one senior starter.
“I’m not surprised by any of this. I think a lot of people are, and I get it, because you see numbers in the paper. You don’t have the whole feel,” Medico said. “This is not surprising. This is something that I expected last year, we just weren’t ready yet. “Everybody’s cool with their own roles. These guys just want to win. They don’t care about individual accolades.”
On Saturday, the Wreckers got strong contributions from up and down that young lineup. McKeegan’s big offensive night was backed by the play of juniors Niko Saldukas (12 points) and Corbin Wagner (9) and senior John Donish, who had seven points and tracked down 10 rebounds. Sophomores Dominick Kokinda and Chance Stauffer also pitched in with solid contributions on both
Puzzle Answers
Weatherly Area’s Ian McKeegan (3) gets a screen from teammate John Donish (21) to get out of a corner trap during Saturday night’s home basketball game against Salem Christian. McKeegan poured in a game-high 25 points in the Weckers’ 61-21 non-league win. JH: Steve Stallone
ends of the floor, the kind of balanced effort Medico knows the Wreckers will need moving forward.
“Having all the kids come together at once on the court, that’s really when we’re going to turn the corner,” Medico stressed. “Typically we’ll have two or three of them that will have an on night, and one or two aren’t. The key for us to continue to be successful and continue to win is to have more than two or three guys clicking at once. Tonight we had that.
“The more that we have that, the better off we are because we have a lot of offensive weapons and they get really tight on defense. If they’d learn to box out correctly, we could do a lot of damage.”
With a small lineup, the Wreckers know they need to play to their strengths and continue to improve if they want to inflict some damage in the upcoming postseason.
“We try to structure everything to our strengths,”
Medico explained. “We’re a quick team, the kids are highenergy, and some games it’s not going to work out for us, and some games it is. This year, a lot of the times it is.”
The up-tempo game works right into the Wreckers’ hands. They are small, fast and quick, and can beat teams up and down the floor in transition. From the opening tap to the final whistle, the Wreckers are pushing the tempo.
“From the start of the summer, to after school practices, we just run, run, run,” the 5-foot-5 McKeegan said. “At practices now we’re always running, always doing our fullcourt stuff, everything is running. We’re not tall, so we’ve got to be fast.”
“This was a great game, but I’ll still go back and say you sucked at this, and you should have done better at that,” Medico said of Saturday’s 40-point victory, one in which the PIAA Mercy
Crestwood Wrestling Crestwood matmen place third
in District 2 3A Team Duals
The Crestwood High School boys’ wrestling team made a strong showing in the District 2 Class 3A Team Duals last week to place third in the eight-team tournament.
After falling to eventual team champion and topseeded Wallenpaupack in the quarterfinal round last Wednesday, the eighth-seeded Comets battled back to defeat No. 5 North Pocono to reach the consolation semifinal round.
On Saturday, the Comets took down No. 6 Wilkes-Barre Area (39-29) in the consolation semifinals, and then beat rival and second-seed Pittston Area (40-30) in the consolation finals to secure third place.
Weatherly
Boys
Continued from page 14
Rule was invoked. “It’s kind of like life. You never really arrive. But they are picking it up.
“Basketball is an easy game if you do the right things,” Medico said. “It doesn’t matter how big you are, how small you are, there’s always something you can do on the court if you follow the easy fundamentals of the game.”
While the Wreckers are looking good on the court, what’s happening off the court has been equally important to their success.
“They’ve matured a lot. The leap from last year to this year in terms of attitude and mentality, and believing that they could win and put it all together, that’s at an all-time high. They’re just jelling,” Medico said. “They’re listening, they’re cool with each other, they keep bonding. Offthe-court things are probably more important than on-thecourt stuff, and we’re gripping and ripping the best that we can.” McKeegan agreed.
“We’re pretty much just
Wallenpaupack went on to defeat seventh-seeded Delaware Valley 38-17 to capture the team championship. Honesdale claimed its third straight District 2 Class 2A crown with a 56-10 stomping of Western Wayne in their final.
Kyle Draina, Crestwood’s standout heavyweight and the defending district champion at 285, had a big day on Saturday, finishing up the tournament with a second-period pin against Wilkes-Barre Area, and a second-period fall over Pittston Area’s Noah Gruber in the consolation finals.
Lincoln Bibla, the Comets’ junior standout, notched a 42-second pin against Wilkes-
keeping our heads. Our coaches are doing a good job of keeping us playing as a team and keeping the chemistry up,” he said. “We’re just communicating on and off the floor, at school or hanging out, and keeping our team chemistry going while we’re trying to move through the games.”
52 Braeden Doyle scored 15 of his team-high 19 points in the first half, powering TriValley past Weatherly Area in a matchup of Schuylkill League playoff qualifiers last week in Hegins.
The Bulldogs threw a haymaker early, outscoring the visiting Wreckers 18-9 in the opening quarter on their way to a 38-26 halftime lead.
A 22-16 fourth-quarter push finally closed things out for
Barre Area in the 215-pound consolation semifinals Saturday.
In his ongoing battle with Pittston Area’s Brody Spindler, Bibla dropped a 10-3 decision in the consi finals. Bibla beat Spindler, the defending district silver medalist, in their head-tohead meeting the week before. Spindler, meanwhile, defeated Bibla at the WVC Tournament earlier this season.
Crestwood (6-6) closes its regular season Saturday at East Stroudsburg South for a non-conference dual match as a tune-up for the District 2 Class 3A Individual Championships the following weekend.
Tri-Valley, which has locked up the Division 2 No. 2 seed for the upcoming Schuylkill League playoffs. Trey Porter scored 14 points and Matt Rawlston tacked on a dozen for the winners.
Corbin Wagner knocked down four 3-pointers and finished with a team-high 22 points for the Wreckers, who will be the division’s third seed for the league playoffs and will play the 2-seed from Division 1 in the quarterfinal round.
Dominick Kokinda added 11 points for the Wreckers. Meanwhile, Weatherly scoring leaders Ian McKeegan and Niko Saldukas were limited to a combined nine points.
In the junior varsity contest, the Wreckers posted a 51-38 victory behind the scoring of Matt Adler (21 points) and Zane Lare (10).
Kingsley Johnson rimmed a game-high 22 for the Bulldogs jayvees.
Weatherly Area 62, Lourdes Regional 57 Ian McKeegan reached a season high with 29 points, Niko Saldukas backed him with 22, and the Wreckers turned back visiting Lourdes Regional for the Schuylkill League Division 2 win last week.
The Wreckers outscored the Red Raiders 16-12 in the fourth to secure the victory, with Saldukas scoring nine of his points in the period and McKeegan getting seven of his. Brighton Schicatano scored 20 and Gavin Renn tacked on 15 for Lourdes.
In junior varsity action, Lourdes slipped past the Wreckers 37-32, with 29 of those points coming from Yablonski (15) and Renn (14).
Matt Adler scored 10 points, and Brandon Davis nailed a pair of 3-pointers for six points to lead Weatherly.
LOURDES REGIONAL (57) Renn 6 0-0 15, Schicatano 8 3-5
JourNAl-herAld sPorts
Crestwood Basketball Roundup Comets, Lady Comets post WVC basketball wins
The Crestwood girls’ and boys’ basketball teams each picked up wins over Wyoming Valley West last week to continue their winning ways as the postseason approaches.
GIRLS
Crestwood 45, Wyoming Valley West 38 Trailing by 12 points heading to the final quarter, the Crestwood girls put together a 20-1 run to capture the Wyoming Valley Conference Division 1 victory.
Charlie Hiller scored 10 of her 11 points in the fourth period for Crestwood (16-3 overall, 8-2 WVC). Jackie Gallagher (13 points) and Kendall Petrosky (10) joined her in double figures Anya Richert scored 14 points to pace Valley West.
North Schuylkill 32, Weatherly Area 31 The Lady Wreckers came up just one point short at North Schuylkill, with Maci Kane scoring a game-high 18 points and Katie Knock adding eight more for Weatherly.
Payton Gawrylick and Haley Sisko each scored seven to lead North Schuylkill’s balanced attack.
Weatherly Area 32, Schuylkill Haven 19 Katie Knock lit it up for 21 points and Maci Kane checked in with nine, powering the Lady Wreckers past Haven.
Abby Farrell scored six for the Hurricanes.
Seventh Grade
Weatherly Area 25, Schuylkill Haven 9 Helena Williams scored 10 points, Yesenia Cruz rimmed seven and the Lady Wreckers shut down Schuylkill Haven for the win.
Sofia Randazzo scored seven points to lead the Hurricanes.
BOYS
Eighth Grade North Schuylkill 44, Weatherly Area 22 Niko Capone’s 10 points showed the way as the Spartans doubled up on the Wreckers.
Wyatt Kokinda and Levi Aneskevich paced Weatherly with six and five points, respectively.
Schuylkill Haven 41, Weatherly Area 23 Landon Bayer’s 13 points and Braden Shappell’s 10 showed the way in Schuylkill Haven’s win over the visiting Wreckers.
Jaxon McKeegan topped Weatherly with 10 points and Wyatt Kokinda added seven. Seventh Grade North Schuylkill 37, Weatherly Area 20 E Quick and Y. Encarnacion scored nine apiece, leading the Spartans to victory.
Vincent Garcia tallied seven points and Carter Minnick scored six for Weatherly Area.
Schuylkill Haven 41, Weatherly Area 13 Noah Runkle scored 12 points as the Hurricanes rolled to the homecourt win.
For Weatherly, Carter Minnick scored nine points and Mason Russell had two.