The Journal-Herald, Thursday, June 12, 2025

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theJournal-herald

©2025, THE JOURNAL-HERALD. All Rights Reserved

CONTINUING: THE WHITE HAVEN JOURNAL ESTABLISHED 1879–146th YEAR, NO. 29

Traffic signal emitters

finally coming to Kidder

Kidder Township’s traffic signals will finally be equipped so that emergency vehicles like fire trucks and ambulance can control them. At the May 22 meeting, township supervisors

approved a cost estimate from Signal Services to install emitters at the intersection of Route 940, Interstate 80 and the turnpike, and at the intersection of Route 904 and See KIDDER, page 5

SINGLE COPY– 75¢

THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025 • Volume 44 – No. 42 (USPS 277440)

CONTINUING: THE WEATHERLY HERALD ESTABLISHED 1880–146th YEAR, NO. 3

Dennison names new zoning officials

The Dennison Township Board of Supervisors voted to appoint BHW Construction Consultation Services, Inc. as its new zoning ordinance enforcement professionals at its June 4 meeting, after hearing Jason Humenanski’s presentation as to why his company would be a great fit for handling the township’s zoning issues.

The company handles zoning, building and property maintenance inspections, as well as code enforcement. Humenanski assured the board his company will be easily accessible. He noted the company just purchased special software called “iWorQ” to assist in handling zoning and

planning issues. He said the township will also have access to this software, which should help with submitting and tracking of forms and paperwork. The company’s fee is $65 per hour, and the township will continue to use its own fee schedule when issuing permits and such.

The supervisors voted to remove Barry Isett and Associates as Zoning Officer, but will retain them as township engineer.

White Haven Police Chief Richard Mocafin reported that there were 27 incidents for May, 2 erratic drivers and two motor vehicle accidents. He said there has been an improvement on the traffic side of things.

Resident Frank Sitko said the flashing traffic sign did help a

See DENNISON, page 3

Rain didn’t dampen spirits at the third annual Trout Festival at the White Haven library on Saturday. JH:RI

Weatherly Area HIgh School Class of 2025 salutatorian Ada Sahaida, left, and valedictorian Rachel Rosenlund step off in the processional opening graduation ceremonies on Friday.
JH: Ruth Isenberg

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Ruth Isenberg, Editor

Steve Stallone, Sports Editor

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Pocono Mountains Chamber of Commerce © Copyright 2025, The Journal-Herald

editoriAl

Mental health treatment cost is high; failure to treat is higher

One of the factors that is driving up education costs at Weatherly Area School District, and across the country, is the cost of treating mental health and special education needs for students. At Weatherly, those costs have climbed steeply over the past few years.

Because of the small size of the district, most of the care for mental health and behavioral issues, as well as special education, is outsourced. The district is just too small to provide a comprehensive in-house solution.

As administrators noted at last week’s school board caucus meeting, student needs can vary widely. There is no one-size-fits-all remedy that can be put into place. An appropriate classroom setting and assistance for each individual student who needs it is vital in providing the support so they can learn, but it is also difficult to forecast and set up.

That’s why two of the largest bills the district has to pay each year are to Behavioral Health Associates and to the Intermediate Unit, both of which provide services the district just can’t. Outside costs are harder to control than those of internal programs. But the cost of trying to provide the services in-house could be much higher, and also be less effective for the students who need the help.

Students face tremendous challenges in our society. There are plenty of reasons, everything from the effects of isolation during the Covid pandemic to the constant presence and pressure of social media. Helping them navigate through their issues is part of the job of the schools, and is important for the well-being not just of those students, but also for our society and world.

The cost is high, but the cost of ignoring the issue of mental health would be higher.

Archives

From The Journal-Herald June 9, 2005

Clara R. Holder, Publisher

White Haven Brownie Troop #3336 held a Fly-Up Ceremony at Hickory Run State Park. They worked together with sister troop Senior Girl Scout Troop 3821, baking cookies for military troops overseas. As part of the ceremony, they performed a play they had written, and walked across a bridge at the park to symbolize becoming member of Junior Troop #3336.

“Elvis” came to celebrate National Nursing Home Week at Weatherwood-Carbon County Nursing Home. A luncheon was also held for National Nurse’s Day for the 48 dedicated and caring nurses at the Weatherly facility.

Salem UCC announced its plans for Vacation Bible School for a week in July, with the theme of Davey and Golieth Circus Spectacular.

From The Journal-Herald

June 16, 2005

Clara R. Holder, Publisher

Crestwood School Board approved a preliminary school operating budget of $25,651,893. The tax remained at 168 mills. Nearly 65% of budget was salary and benefits. Also approved was Crestwood’s share of the Wilkes-Barre Area Vocational-Technical School, for a total of $718,269 from the district.

Weatherly Area High School seniors took a four-day class trip to Virginia Beach, with all the bus and rooms paid for through class fundraisers over their four years in high school.

Crestwood High School graduation took place on the football field, with fine weather and room for everyone to attend.

St. Jude School held 8th grade graduation, with 23 students completing their studies at the Mountain Top parochial school.

The new police protection agreement between Dennison Township and White Haven paid off as White Haven Police arrested a burglar who had broken into a supposedly vacant home, climbing through the second story window only to find that one of the residents was home sick. Though he fled, the homeowner was able to identify him, and police officers obtained a warrant and located the suspect. He was arraigned and bail was set. The investigation was to continue, as there have been several burglaries reported in the area.

The A&W Restaurant at the Turnpike and Route 940 celebrated National Float Day, giving out free root beer floats with any purchase. This events was a celebration of the chain’s 86th anniversary.

A book signing was scheduled with Sharon Miner for Beloved School Horses, a collection of true short stories about the unsung heroes of the horse world. The event was to be held at the Mountain Laurel Stable on Route 940.

Fairview Elementary School students enjoyed a visit from environmental education staffers from Nescopeck State Park to celebrate Earth Day. Each class went on a nature walk on the school’s nature trail, and each student made a painted hand print around the Earth to signify that each one of us can “Lend a Hand” in caring for the land. Woodsy Owl made a special appearance.

Weatherly Cub Pack 607 held an Arrow of Light Ceremony and a ceremony to present Bear badges to six Cubs who advanced to the rank of Webelo.

Carl Edwards won the Pocono 500 at Pocono Raceway on his first visit to the track at Lond Pond, charging from the 29th starting position. The only other first-timer to win at Pocono was the King himself, Richard Petty, according to sports editor Steve Stallone.

Public Notices

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE of ANN MARIE STARRY, deceased, late of Tamaqua, Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania.

LETTERS of ADMINISTRATION have been granted to the undersigned who requests all persons having claims or demands against the estate of said decedent to make know the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payments, without delay, to the Administrator: Thomas C. Starry 202 Center Street Tamaqua, Pa. 18252 or to his Attorney: Robert T. Yurchak, Esquire 1 E Catawissa Street; POB 127 Nesquehoning, PA 18240 6/12

ESTATE NOTICE

ESTATE of WAYNE V. GRYZIK, deceased, late of the Borough of Summit Hill, Carbon County, Pennsylvania.

LETTERS TESTAMENTARY have been granted to the undersigned who requests all persons having claims or demands against the estate of said decedent to make know the same and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payments, without delay, to the Executrix: Lisa Marie Gallagher Gryzik 486 West White Bear Drive Summit Hill, PA. 18250 or to her Attorney: Robert T. Yurchak, Esquire 1 E Catawissa Street; POB 127 Nesquehoning, PA 18240 6/26

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Letters Administration have been granted to Georgiana Dillman, of New London, Connecticut, in the Estate of Mariana Fusle, late of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, who died on December 11, 2024. 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 6/26

White Haven plants community pollinator garden to support local ecosystem

The White Haven Blueprint Communities Team is proud to announce the launch of the town’s new Community Pollinator Garden, planted on April 26 as part of the Plant for Pollinators: Restoring the Earth initiative.

The day included a morning educational session with Penn State Extension at the White Haven Area Community Library, followed by hands-on garden planting at the Caboose. Community members came together to plant species that will support pollinators and enhance local biodiversity.

This project was made possible through the support of our generous partners: Penn State Extension, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Environmental Education Grants Program, White Haven Borough, Bear Creek Organics, Hickory Run Lavender Farm, and the Greater White Haven Chamber of Commerce.

The White Haven Blueprint Communities Team thanks all who contributed their time, knowledge, and resources to bring this project to life. The garden will serve as a lasting symbol of community action and environmental care.

little on Route 437, but the sign is no longer available for use.

Board chair Sheila Weaver said four bids were received for the Hollenback Bridge stream debris removal project. The lowest bid was $46,125 from AR Poppel Trucking and Excavating. Their bid appeared to encompass everything the township needs to have completed, and therefore, they were awarded the project.

Weaver noted the Ice Lake Bridge project may prove to be quite expensive.

Roadmaster Jim Yackiel reported having cleared drainage areas on Peat Moss and Middleburg roads, grass cutting and building cleanup. He started road cutting and would continue this into next week.

The township audit has been completed and the township is in good shape according to Weaver.

The Fire Department report was read by township secretary Kathleen Stortz. There were 10 calls in May, 42 ½ hours of service and 2 hours of maintenance. The new air packs are in but not yet in service.

A township resident is interested in erecting a solar farm on her property. A representative from New Leaf Energy, a Massachusetts company, was present to discuss this with the supervisors. Currently, her property is zoned Residential Agriculture and does not allow for a project of this nature. Weaver said it would require zoning and ordinance changes to be considered. She asked the representative to send the supervisors additional information for review. He was advised by the township solicitor to start any project approval process with the planning commission.

For more information or to get involved, please contact the White Haven Blueprint Communities Team at info@ whitehavenchamber.com. Visit our website at pocononewspapers.com or find us on Facebook for more photos, news, and features.

obituAries

RICHARD ROQUE JR.

Richard Roque, 76, passed away at home on Monday, June 2, 2025. He was the son of the late Dr. Richard Roque and Dolores Fernandez Roque. He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth “Liz” Roque; his sisters, Renee, Denise, and Michelle; along with aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

Rich was a proud veteran who honorably served his country in both the United States Marine Corps and the Navy Seabees during the Vietnam War.

He spent most of his career working for PA Electric Company in Philadelphia before retiring to the White Haven area. Never one to sit still for long, he continued working for many years at Paradise Steam in the Poconos.

Rich was a generous man with a big heart. After retirement, he could often be seen lending a helping hand throughout White Haven— offering support to neighbors, caring for animals, and stepping in wherever he was needed.

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He loved gardening, and was known for cooking elaborate, delicious meals for those he cared about.

He was a skilled welder, a talent he enjoyed in his spare time, and a devoted fan of cartoon especially Betty Boop. Rich also cheered faithfully for the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles, and he also loved watching the Super Bowl, no matter who was playing.

Above all, Rich loved his family deeply. His warmth, humor, and boundless generosity will be remembered by all who were lucky enough to know him.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church, White Haven on June 9, with Reverend Michael Kloton officiating. Interment arrangements are being finalized for Indiantown Gap Cemetery, 60 Indiantown Gap Rd., Annville.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Lehman Family Funeral Service, Inc., White Haven.

SHEILA STOZENSKI

Sheila Stozenski, of WilkesBarre Township, formerly of Mountain Top, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025. Born on September 20, 1936, Sheila was the daughter of the late Joseph and Genevieve (Higgens) Maughan of Pittston. A devoted homemaker, she dedicated her life to her family, faith and community. Sheila was the proud alumna of Marywood College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. Deeply rooted in her faith, she was a lifelong member of St. Jude’s church, where she sang in the choir for more than 50 years, bringing joy to countless parishioners through her voice. Her commitment to service extended beyond the church – Sheila volunteered at Mercy Hospital and later managed the gift shop where she showcased her talent of helping people

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Sheila and her husband George were active members of Wyoming Valley Country Club for many years. She cherished time spent with family and friends, especially time at the beach, a place she truly loved.

Sheila was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, George E. Stozenski, Sr. and her brother, Joseph Maughan.

She is survived by her loving son, George (Carolyn) Stozenski Jr. of Montville, NJ and daughter, Lisa (John) Dagit of Boothwyn, Pa and her brother, Patrick Maughan. She also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren, J.D., Holly, Will and Ethan who were the light of her life. She will be missed dearly by all who knew her, especially Lori Roadway, who was like a second daughter to her.

Friends and family are invited to a viewing at 9:30 am on Friday, June 13, at St. Jude’s church in Mountain Top. A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. with Reverend Joseph Evanko officiating. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township. A repast celebrating the life of Sheila will take place at Wyoming Valley Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her honor may be made to Allied WilkesBarre Hospice center (AlliedServices.org) where Sheila spent her last few days. Their kindness and dedication meant so much to us. We are also deeply grateful to everyone at Highland Park Senior Living for their care of Sheila over the past three years.

Continued from page 1

the Moseywood/Jack Frost entrance. Lake Harmony Fire Company and Albrightsville Fire Company have been requesting the modification to the signal for several years.

Supervisor/Roadmaster Wilson Klotzman reported that the timing on the signals have been adjusted at the Interstate 80/Turnpike/Route 940 entrance, and that traffic seems to be flowing better, with no vehicles waiting more than one change. Supervisor Bruce Berger warned that once the work at the Turnpike entrance is complete, traffic may move faster at that point. Signal Services will be asked to check it.

Anna Shigo, the Open Space Coordinator for the Carbon County Open Space Grant Program told the supervisors about the grant program that has resulted from the 2022 bond referendum. Regional workshops to explain the program, which provides fund for agricultural and open space improvements, are being held this summer. (The funds cannot be used for parks.) Kidder Township will be grouped with Penn Forest Township and East Side Borough sometime this summer.

A request to revise the letter of credit amount for PNK PS LLC for the warehouse on Route 940 toward Blakeslee was tabled for more information.

Blue Ridge Real Estate’s

request for an extension until June 26 for the Lake Shore development was approved.

Cypress Creek Renewables’ request for a one-year extension on it conditional use approval was granted, due to issues in obtaining permits from the state.

Solicitor Robert Yurchak explained the supervisors’ issue with the current stormwater management ordinance. He called the present language “unworkable,” saying it doesn’t specify that it just applies to commercial properties, so could also be required for residential properties. The formula in the ordinance requires too much money to be deposited, he said, since the money can only be used for inspections, not for repairs, and keeping the money collected in one fund could be an accounting nightmare.

Last year, he said, the township started working with the developers, requiring them to do the inspections, thereby shifting the cost of inspection from the township to the developer.

In other business, supervisors approved the installation of a new crate engine to replace the existing one in a police vehicle for a cost not to exceed $7,500.00. A used engine was not available.

A bid received from the Carbon County Tax Claim Bureau for $896 was approved. Purchaser is Susana G. Carpio.

Police committee chair/ supervisor Noel Torres

reported that they are receiving lots more calls this year than last, and the officers are doing a terrific job. Chief Matthew Kuzma said the township has received an LSA grant of $35,000 which will be used for additional license plate readers and a mobile, solar speed notification trailer.

Manager Suzanne Brooks also praised the police department, and urged people

to sign up for the Kidder Connect mobile app, which is linked to the website, currently being revamped.

Bills of $263,609.43 were approved for payment.

Present were supervisors Berger, Ray Gluck, Klotzman and Torres; Louis Pantages was absent.

The next meeting is Thursday, June 26, at 6 p.m. at the township building.

WAHS 4th marking period honor roll listed

Principal Anthony DeSpirito has released the Honor Roll for the fourth marking period at Weatherly Area High School.

PRINCIPAL’S HONOR ROLL

Students must achieve a 95 average or better with no grade below 90.

FRESHMEN

Joseph Esposito, Tyler Keck, Rebecca Caldwell, Aiden Foley, Willem Grant, Ben Kropp, Mary Portell, Madeline Rhodes, Chance Stauffer

JUNIORS

Jasmine Bresnak, Keira Culp, McKenna Gerhard, Antoinette Guerra, Emma Heister, Kendra Moyer, Grace Portell, Kelly Reiner, Niko Saldukas, Abigail Weston

SENIORS

Ethan Darraugh, Andrew Dotzel, III, Eva Eroh, Kiley Holman, Olivia Johnson, Izabel Jones, Conner McAuley, Vincent Paisley, Mackenzie Rhodes, Ava Sahaida, Lukas Vasek

FIRST HONORS

Students must achieve a 90 average or better with no grade below 85.

FRESHMEN

Rebecca Alfieri, Alexander Best, Carmen Rose Cabrera, Jillian Foley, Maddie Heister SOPHOMORES

Matthew Adler, Jr., Kayla Bingham, Jackson DiGennaro, Kameron Jacoby, Gianna Miller, Liam Savakinus, Emilio Valenzuela

JUNIORS

Sofia Evans, Kellyanne Kennelly, Raymond Montz, Mason Veasie, Amanda Whale SENIORS

Hayden DiGennaro, Rachel Downs, Christian Hoffman, Mackenzie McGill, Rachel Rosenlund, Ellen Whisler

SECOND HONORS

Students must achieve an 85 average or better with no grade below 80.

FRESHMEN

Joshua Almanzar, Mya Binder, Preston Culp, Odin Eckert, Samantha Generose, Brent Gerhard, Evan Perez SOPHOMORES

Josef Corso, Krisna Lucero Ruiz, Khrystian Rivera Williams, Cortney Snyder

JUNIORS

Brandon Davis, Nelson Hernandez, Sawyer Krum, Corban Leininger, Kameran Strohl

SENIORS

Ryan Breslosky, Cole Foley, James McLaurin, Alexander Rosenlund

comiNg eveNts

Thursday, June 12—Lehigh & Lausanne fundraiser hoagie sale, 3-7 p.m., Jersey Mike’s in Hazleton (Code JMGIVES)

Saturday & Sunday, June 14 & 15—Patchtown Days, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Eckley Miners’ Village

Saturday, June 14—Bluegrass Dispatch-Patchtown Days After-party, 4 p.m., Eckley Miners’ Village

Saturday, June 21—Plant Swap, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Weatherly Area Museum

Wednesday, June 25— Heritage Hill Summer Concert Series-Caribbean Jeff, 6:30 p.m., Weatherly

Friday, June 27—Pop Hits Music Show, 5:30 p.m., Pavillion at Freeland Park

Sunday, June 29—Trivia Contest fundraiser for Mountain Top Historical Society, 2 p.m., Broadway Tavern, Mountain Top, 570-417-8048

Friday & Saturday, July 11 & 12—St. Patrick’s Church Festival, White Haven

Saturday & Sunday, July 19 & 20—Pow-Wow, Camp Rotawanis, Drums

Thursday, July 24—Heritage Hill Summer Concert SeriesThe Bee’s Knees, 6:30 p.m., Weatherly

Friday & Saturday, July 25 & 26—Jam Below the Dam, White Haven

Saturday, August 9—

Homecoming, L&L Volunteer Fire Company

Saturday, August 16— Summer Main Street Market, White Haven

Friday & Saturday, August 22 & 23—Weatherly Festival

Saturday, September 6—Car Show, Lehigh Park, White Haven

Saturday & Sunday, September 13 & 14— Weatherly HillClimb

Saturday, September 27— Art Walk, 12-5, White Haven

Friday & Saturday, October 3 & 4—Weatherly Area

Community Library Auction

Sunday, October 12—Harvest Market, White Haven

Saturday, November 29—Small Business Saturday, White Haven

Saturday, November 29—9th annual Christmas Event, Weatherly Area Museum

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MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 1975 await the start of the 2025 graduation ceremony in the Weatherly Area Middle School gym. The 50-year reunion class was honored at the graduation and a reception. JH: Ruth Isenberg

librAry corNer

On Saturday June 14, the White Haven Are Community Library will host several kid- friendly activities. For our youngest patrons, aged 7 and under, please join us for Tot Time with Miss Victoria. Come hear a story and do a tot friendly craft from 10:15 until 11 a.m.

From noon until 1:30 p.m., kids aged 8 and can join us for a fun camping themed adventure with camping themed games and food for some early summer fun. Don’t miss out. No registration is required for either event. Miss Christina’s Tot Time will return on Wednesday, June 18 at 6 p.m.

As a reminder, the Tot Room and Children’s Play Area at the library are available to the community whenever the library is open. Raining out? Come to the library and play a board game, do a puzzle, color, or play Legos. Make plans to meet up with a friend or make a new one. The Tot room also has plenty of toys to keep the younger ones entertained.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren will hold their regular meeting on Tuesday, June 17 at 6:30 p.m. If you are looking for support and resources, or can offer the same, please join us. Registration is not necessary, however if you require childcare, please call the library in advance at 570-443-

8776. Light refreshments will be served.

The July read for the regular Book Club will be The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid. The next meeting will be on July 9 at 6:30 p.m. It will be a Beach Party meeting in The Rail Yard Park. The club is open to interested adults 18 and over. The Romance-Fantasy Book Club will meet next on June 18 at 6:30.

The new White Haven Area Community Library logo T-Shirts are in and available for purchase at the front desk. Adult short sleeve T’s are $15$18, long sleeve are $20 - $22. Kids T’s are available for $12. Hoodies are also available and are $40 - $43. Payments can be made by cash or credit card. Proceeds from the sales will benefit the library. 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.

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.

seth’s sightiNgs

The Journal-Herald region is surrounded by blooming mountain laurel bushes. The Poconos roadsides are decorated with these pink and white flowers. The best displays we have sighted so far are most anywhere in Hickory Run State Park, and in the woods near to the north side of the Broad Mountain along Route 93 and along state park trails there.

It’s strawberry season Heckman Orchards on Route 115 in Effort is offering pick-your-own for as long as the weather holds out (not too rainy, not too hot).

In NBA basketball, the teams in this year’s finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers have played their first two games, with each winning one. A champion should emerge by next weekend.

The Weatherly Hillclimb last weekend was another success in spite of a little rain. Volunteers report a good Saturday and even better Sunday at the food booths. Everyone who worked to

put on such a fine event should be well satisfied. The Hillclimb’s fall event returns September 13 and 14.

As of this writing, the National Hockey league playoffs have the Florida Panthers up one game on the Edmonton Oilers. Ruth and I are hoping the Oilers will tie things up this week and earn the Stanley Cup for Canada. NASCAR returns to Pocono Raceway June 20 (Craftsman trucks), 21 (Xfinity series) and 22 (NASCAR cup). If NASCAR is your thing, it will bring its road show with all the trimmings to our doorsteps in Long Pond. Good health to all of you.

Seth

Pop Hits Music Show set

All are invited for a night of fun music hits performed by vocalist Jack James with guest appearance by trumpeter Frank Balon on Friday, June 27. Hear hits made popular by Elvis, Bobby Rydell, Dion, Bobby Darin, and more.

Pre-show instrumental hits start at 5:30 p.m. The

concert begins at 6:30 p.m. inside the historic Freeland Dance Hall Pavilion, Front Street, next to the YM-YWCA. The performance is indoors, unaffected by weather. Seating is provided. No admission charge, but free will offerings are appreciated. Refreshments, food and snacks available.

HAZLETON • PHILADELPHIA

White Haven plants community pollinator garden to support local ecosystem

The White Haven Blueprint Communities Team is proud to announce the launch of the town’s new Community Pollinator Garden, planted on April 26 as part of the Plant for Pollinators: Restoring the Earth initiative.

The day included a morning educational session with Penn State Extension at the White Haven Area Community Library, followed by hands-on garden planting at the Caboose. Community members came together to plant species that will support pollinators and enhance local biodiversity.

This project was made possible through the support of our generous partners: Penn State Extension, the

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Environmental Education Grants Program, White Haven Borough, Bear Creek Organics, Hickory Run Lavender Farm, and the Greater White Haven Chamber of Commerce.

The White Haven Blueprint Communities Team thanks all who contributed their time, knowledge, and resources to bring this project to life. The garden will serve as a lasting symbol of community action and environmental care.

For more information or to get involved, please contact the White Haven Blueprint Communities Team at info@ whitehavenchamber.com.

Need an Extra Copy of this issue?

The Journal-Herald is for sale at: White Haven Market, Soapy Bee and 940 Plaza in White Haven, Wawa at the Turnpike in Kidder, Weasel’s in Dennison, and TJ’s One Stop in Weatherly.

Christmas in July open house for model RR group

The Carbon Model Railroad Society is happy to announce that it will once again hold its Christmas in July Open House at 529 Ore Street in Bowmanstown (PA 18030) on Saturdays and Sundays, July 12 & 13, 19 & 20, and 26 & 27 from 1 to 4 p.m.

The club’s O Gauge, HO and N scale displays will be in operation on the second floor, along with

the sale of new and pre-owned trains and accessories. The club’s Traveling Caboose with its HO Scale operating display can be visited in the back yard, conditions permitting. Admission is free; donations are welcome. The building is airconditioned. Visit us at www@ cmrs.info. For more info call Garry at 610-554-4110.

Weatherly Area Elementary School Students of the Month for the Month of May, shown first row from left, 1st Grade, Gabriel O’Donnell and Stella Downey, 2nd Grade, Kerrigan Kahley and Grace McLaurin; back row 3rd Grade, Glenn Hoffman and Everly Attore, 4th Grade Izabella Rasheed and Ramona Ford, 5th Grade Ava Kurtz and Mackenzie Clabia.

WAMS lists April Students of the Month

Middle School principal Anthony DeSpirito has announced the names of the students who were nominated and selected as Weatherly Area Middle School Students of the Month for April. The award is based on academic achievement, attendance, extra-curricular involvement, and service to school and community.

Rachel Lech, daughter of Paul and Terri Lech, Weatherly, is the 6th grade student of the month. Rachel is a good student, who likes to spend time with her

friends and family.

Kaila Howton, daughter of Brad and Crystal Howton, Weatherly, is the 7th grade student of the month. Kaila enjoys spending time with her friends, and plays softball for school, and in the community.

Carl Schweitzer, son of Carl and Amber Schweitzer, Weatherly, is the 8th grade student of the month. Carl likes to volunteer his time with the Weatherly HillClimb and is an excellent student.

Weatherly Area Middle School Honor Roll listed

The following is the honor roll list from the Weatherly Area Middle School for the third marking period, which ended June 4.

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.

6TH GRADE

Jessica Antolick, Chase Bachert, Alyson Baker, Rosaleigh Bates, Rachel Clark, Alyson Davidovich, Silas Eckert, Vance Gerhard, Mackenzie Graham, Zachary Hayes, Alexander Hoffman, Kyleigh Klem, Thomas Maguschak, Alexis Masterson, Madilyn McGee, Gracie Miller, Natalie Nelmes, Julian Perkins, Noelle Rambaran, Cameron Snyder, Aubrey Stellar, Benjamin Steward, Owen Titus, Allam Valenzuela, and Kaden Witner

7TH GRADE

Sophia Durham, MaBella Gerhard, Elsie Gower, Lilah Gower, Dinah Janiec, Evan Janiec, Mikayla Kuntz, Carter Minnick, Katherine Morales, Emma Moyer, Emma Posser, Mikayla Pugh, Halena Williams, and Camden Zimmerman

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

8TH GRADE

Levi Aneskevich, Brandon Antolick, Elizabeth DiGennaro, Jillian Esposito, Alexia Kehler, Madison Makowiec, Melina Ayala, Derek Moyer, Maci Kane, Brianna Kiddish, John Thomas, Riley Zawilski, and Ava Zimmerman

FIRST HONORS

The criteria for students to earn First Honors is to attain an average grade of 90 or better in major subjects with no grade below an 85 in any subject taken.

6TH GRADE

Shaun Caldwell, Jaxon Dembrosi, Grace Eroh, JesaLynn Johnson, Madelyn Keefer, Cloe Kelly, Rachel Lech, Danielle Lenhardt, Adeleyah Mehlig, and Lucca Walters

7TH GRADE

Rose Alfieri, Riley Bachert, Angelina Gregory, Gianna Guerra, Troy Holman, Kaila Howton, and Mackenzie Klem 8TH GRADE

Raven Biles, Katie Knock, and Avery McLaurin

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.

6TH GRADE

Cameron Alberswerth, Colton DeLauretis, Aidan Gowen, Rebekah Houser, Olivia Keefer, Albert Kokinda Jr., Isabella Lassiter, Matthew Ryan Jr., Madison Sipler, and Matthew Skonieczny

7TH GRADE

Ismael Almanzar, Gianna Buonaiuto, Christian Deeb, Stephan Delman IV, Corbin Gerhard, Athier Guzman, Ryley Jacoby, Blake Mehlig, Aliyah Michaels, Shayna Pugh, Evan Snyder, and Ruby Torgersen 8TH GRADE

Ashley Bingham, Zoe Guzman, Mason Keefer, Wyatt Kokinda, Jaxon McKeegan, Kaylee Morales, Lillianna Sincavage, and Alexia Wisler

Crestwood wins honors at state PJAS session

Crestwood Secondary Campus students excelled at the State Meeting of Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science. The meeting was held at Penn State Main Campus, May 18, 19, and 20. Twenty students earned First Awards, while 11

Shown from left are high school students, in row 1, Romessa Haq; row 2, Sheza Chaundry, Kirsty Recondo; row 3, Anna Luther, Cameron Schwartz, Pauline Villafuerte, Jack Groth; row 4, Madalyn Detweiler, Jessica Langan, Darin Khuseyn, Gabriella White; row 5, Addison Walsh, Anna Glassic, Shreema Rupareliya, Julie Peterlin, Sierra Strungus; row 6, Kevin Luther, Grayce Grazio, Kyra Bechtel, Lauren Falcheck, Onur Haltas, Sean Rossi, Mason Staude, Clark Groth, and Zane Villafuerte.

students earned Second Awards. Perfect scores were obtained by Shreema Rupareliya (Earth and Space Science) and Jessica Langan (Earth and Space Science). Senior Perseverance Awards were earned by Shreema

Rupareliya (6 years), Zane Villafuerte (6 years), Clark Groth (4 years) and Kevin Luther (4 years). Senior Shreema Rupareliya also earned the PJAS 2025 Senior High Excellence in Earth/Space Research.

from left are middle school students, in row 1,: Anna Morris, Aarya Patel, Ava Coltrane; row 2, Lillian Michael, Kieren Koons, and Callie Martin.

Shown

NASCAR will descend on Pocono Raceway for June 20-22 race weekend

The second half of the NASCAR Cup Series racing season is upon us, and things are heating up as the series prepares for its one and only visit to Pocono Raceway this month.

The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VisitPA.com race is scheduled for Sunday, June 22, the climax of the threeday race weekend set at the Long Pond superspeedway.

Tickets are available by calling the track at 1-800-722-3929, or online at poconoraceway.com.

The race weekend begins on Friday, June 20 as gates open at noon. The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series kicks things off with practice at 12:35 p.m., qualifying at 1:40, and the 80-lap, 200-mile truck race set for a 5 p.m. start.

Gates open at 8 a.m. Saturday, with NASCAR Xfinity practice

and qualifying slated for 10 and 11:05 a.m., respectively, followed by NASCAR Cup Series practice (12:35 p.m.) and qualifying (1:45 p.m.). The Explore the Mountains 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series 100-lap race goes green at 3:30 p.m.

Gates open again on Sunday at 8 a.m. as fans gather for the 400-mile NASCAR Cup Series feature race. The 160-lap event begins at 2 p.m.

Seven-time Pocono Raceway winner Denny Hamlin comes in as one of the series’ hottest drivers. Hamlin outlasted the competition at Michigan International Speedway on Sunday for his 57th career Cup victory and third of the season. Hamlin’s latest win vaulted him into third place in the series point standings with 494 points, trailing only points leader William Byron (576, 1 win) and second-place Kyle Larson (535 points, 3 wins). Christopher Bell

Fans and photographers alike snap photos as race winner Ryan Blaney and Team Penske celebrate in Victory Lane at Pocono Raceway following last year’s The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VisitPA.com NASCAR Cup Series race on July 14, 2024. This year’s race is set for June 22 in Long Pond.

(480, 3) and Chase Elliott (464, 0) round out the top five, and Tyler Reddick (460, 0) is sixth.

Hamlin, driving the No. 11 Toyota, passed Byron on the 197th of 200 laps and pulled away from the pack to win by more than a second over Chris Buescher.

While Hamlin is dominant when he gets to Pocono, Ryan Blaney is certainly a driver to watch when stock car racing returns to the 2.5-mile “Tricky Triangle” next weekend.

Blaney is the defending race champion. He captured the 2024 race at Pocono, ending a seven-year win drought at the track where he recorded his first

career Cup victory in 2017. And Blaney is coming in hot as well, having captured his first Cup Series victory of the season at Nashville Superspeedway two weeks ago. The 2023 Cup Series champion has been racing well in the No. 12 Ford Mustang, with five top-5 finishes during the first half of the season. He is currently seventh in the point standings at 427.

Before the Cup Series makes its way to the Poconos next weekend, it first will shift to Mexico City this weekend for its first points-paying international race in modern history.

JH Photo by Steve Stallone

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THEME: SUMMER VIBES

ACROSS

1. Baking ingredient

5. Accounting pro 8. Depletes

12. ____ reflection

13. Painter Chagall

14. Feeling of resentment

15. Member of Germany’s NSDAP

16. ____ lily

17. Light shade of blue

18. *Summer thirst quencher

20. Same as tsar

21. Subside

22. Tierra ____ Fuego

23. Taken without consent

26. Even greener, as in fruit

30. Dot follower

31. Largest hot dessert

34. Australian palm

35. Evian, backwards

37. A in FANBOYS

38. *Like a lightning bug

39. Prima donna

40. *Midsummer’s maypole dance, e.g.

42. *William Blake’s “To Summer,” e.g.

43. Any voting citizen

45. *Sun to ice cream

47. Feeling of veneration

48. Two-door

50. *Beach bag, usually

52. *Summer rays

55. Rock bottom

56. Altar location

57. Milk ____, candy

59. Small stream

60. Turned to the right, like a horse

61. Starchy tuber

62. *It’s knee-high by the 4th of July

63. Ctrl and Delete partner

64. Type of tide

DOWN

1. *____-kissed

2. Birthstone after sapphire

3. Nod off

4. Kind of instinct

5. Diamond weight unit

6. Bluenose

7. Climber’s destination

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9. Greenish blue

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13. Sometime in the future

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26. Pakistani tongue

27. Sitcom trial

28. Lyric poem

29. Less experienced

32. *Boat ____, don’t care!

33. *Uninvited picnic guest

36. *Break from summer routine

38. First in Hebrew alphabet

40. Fish eggs

41. Entertained

44. Twist plus jerk

46. City in Netherlands

48. Precious metal extraction cup

49. Early stages

50. #61 Across cousin

51. ____-Eaters

52. Literary genre

53. In the buff

54. Collection of Norse mythology

55. Oldest of the “Big Three” TV networks

58. Dip into liquid

Crestwood girls’ laxers reach PIAA quarterfinals, end year at 17-5

District champion Comet boys fall in state tournament opener

It took a lengthy rain delay and a district champion to finally slow down the Crestwood High School girls’ lacrosse team. Last Saturday in Emmaus, the Lady Comets squared off with District 1 champ Strath Haven in the PIAA Class 2A quarterfinals, and Crestwood was equal to the task.

The District 2 runners-up played Strath Haven even at 4-4 through one quarter of play before a lightning storm delayed the contest.

Crestwood’s Jackie Gallagher scored three times in that opening quarter, tying the game just before the delay came. When the teams returned to the field to resume play, however, it was the Panthers who wrestled momentum away from Crestwood. Strath Haven scored four times in the second quarter and twice more in the third to build a 10-4 lead on its way to a 17-9 victory.

The win moved Strath Haven (17-7) into the Class 2A state semifinals opposite Abington Heights. The unbeaten District 2 champions, who edged Crestwood for the district title, beat Upper Moreland 13-7 in their semifinal matchup earlier Saturday.

Kate Fox paved the way with eight goals for the Panthers, who outscored Crestwood 13-5 following the rain delay.

Gallagher paced the Lady Comets with five goals, and Gia

Caporuscio scored twice. Jordan Andrews and Addie Knorr rounded out the Crestwood scoring with solo goals. Lexi Zabroski was in goal for Crestwood, notching seven saves.

Crestwood ended its memorable season with a 17-5 record, a district runner-up finish and a spot in the PIAA quarterfinals.

Crestwood 21, Lewisburg 4 - The Lady Comets opened state tournament play the previous Tuesday, whipping District 4 champion Lewisburg (12-4) in a first round runaway.

Hannah Ziegler poured in six goals and also produced three assists to power the Crestwood offensive attack. Jackie Gallagher scored five goals, Gia Caporuscio tallied four and assisted on five others, and Ella Novelli scored twice for the Lady Comets.

Jordan Andrews, Addie Knorr, Maddie Boop and Sarah Kondraski concluded the Lady Comets’ scoring with one goal each, while Lexi Zabroski was strong in goal with six saves.

BOYS’ LACROSSE

Lampeter-Strasburg 18, Crestwood 7 - LampeterStrasburg surrendered just two goals after intermission, and went on to defeat the Crestwood boys in their PIAA Class 2A first round matchup early last week.

Crestwood’s Jackie Gallagher is pressured from behind by a Strath Haven player during Saturday’s PIAA Class 2A quarterfinal matchup at Emmaus High School. Gallagher scored a team-leading five goals, but the Lady Comets fell 17-9 to see their season come to an end.

Crestwood (15-7) was coming off a District 2 championship performance, but ran into trouble producing goals against the District 3 runners-up. The Comets got two goals each from Jack Augustine and Kevin

Schlude, and trailed by just four (9-5) at halftime before the Pioneers (18-3) finished the game on a 9-2 run. Ashton Amend, Cole Pugh and Logan Lawson scored solo goals for Crestwood.

Photo by Bob Gaetano

Several Comets honored following standout boys’ volleyball season

Crestwood was one set away from advancing to the quarterfinals of the state volleyball tournament last week.

Dock Mennonite refused to let it happen.

The District 1/11 subregional champions rallied from a 2-1 deficit to take the final two sets and stun Crestwood 3-2 in their PIAA Class 2A first round matchup.

The Comets rallied first, responding to a 25-16 first-set loss to win the second set 25-14 and the third 25-15 to take control of the match.

But it was Dock Mennonite which had the final say, holding off the Comets 25-22 in the fourth set, then getting the fifth and deciding set 15-13 to move on in the state tournament.

The Comets concluded their stellar season with a 14-5 record

and a runner-up finish in both the Wyoming Valley Conference and in the District 2 Class 2A Tournament.

They were rewarded for that special season by placing a number of players on this year’s Wyoming Valley Conference Volleyball AllStar Team.

Crestwood’s Luke Joseph topped the voting for all defensive players to grab a first team spot, and teammate JJ Stec joined him as a first team selection as an offensive player. Crestwood’s Jeff Stec was voted the WVC Coach of the Year, guiding the Comets to a second-place finish to unbeaten Holy Redeemer (20-0) in conference play.

Holy Redeemer’s Joshua Rocha topped the voting for offensive players and was joined on the first team by Royals teammate Jack

Wasiakoswki. Gino Gualandi (Delaware Valley), Jordany Rodriguez Disla (Wilkes-Barre Area), Luke Peereboom (Delaware Valley), Carlos Guzman (Berwick) and Zachary MacBain (Tunkhannock) rounded out the top eight vote-getters among offensive players. Joseph led the defensive player voting to earn a first-team spot.

The second team consisted of Crestwood’s Tom McLaughlin along with Derek Romero (Wyoming Valley West), Jackson Matash (Berwick), Kendrick Oritz (Hazleton Area), Carter Brunn (Dallas), Davyn Piatt (Hanover Area), Zachary Zubritski (Nanticoke Area), Brady Rushton (Nanticoke Area) and Eric Choi (Delaware Valley).

Crestwood’s Zachary Koons and Clark Groth earned honorable

mention honors for their play this season. Also gaining honorable mention status were Jose Carinna (Wilkes-Barre Area), Grant Nielsen (Delaware Valley), Reylie Ramirez (Wilkes-Barre Area), Max Mohutsky (Holy Redeemer), Ireneo Panecatl (Hanover Area), Evan Thomas (Hazleton Area), Jack Greening (Delaware Valley), Christopher Miller (Dallas), Carlos Tecotl (Wyoming Valley West) and Zabwon Welch (Wyoming Valley West).

The Comets’ Jeff Stec received three votes for coach of the year, edging out Holy Redeemer’s Jack Kablick Sr., Hanover Area’s John Garnett and Wyoming Valley West’s Ryan Hettes. Also receiving votes were Nanticoke Area’s Deb Gavin and Wilkes-Barre Area’s Huy Nguyen.

Thibodeau led the Knicks to the NBA Eastern Finals for the first time in a quarter century, and then he was fired

On the surface, it’s surprising, but it makes sense if you dig a bit more deeply.

With a predictable offense led by Jalen Brunson, other top players— Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby—would get the ball if they were lucky.

Bench-sitters played sparingly, and the defense overall was spotty, especially against the three.

My take is that Thibodeau would still be the coach if he knew how to utilize Towns and trusted his bench players. Instead, Thibodeau used Towns more as a decoy than a second offensive weapon, and he didn’t give younger players—Tyler

Kolek and Miles McBride are prime examples—the opportunity to develop as they should.

Of course, there were pluses in Thibodeau’s overall body of work, including his overall record with the Knicks (226-174) and the fact that his teams were good enough to make the postseason four times. His teams improved every year, and he brought professionalism to an organization that badly needed it.

But there’s an overriding issue, and it’s about winning an NBA championship. The Knicks’ ownership and management believe they can win with Bruson,

Bridges, and Towns, but doing that means deploying a different approach. Thibs didn’t and wouldn’t win a championship relying on Brunson. Anybody who watched the Eastern Finals vs. the Pacers saw that. Brunson was manhandled every time he got the ball.

Bottom line? Thibodeau took the Knicks as far as he could, and that’s why he’s no longer the Knicks’ head coach.

Leslie Monteiro covers NY Metro sports for The Sports Column.

Faster driver added to Hillclimb Hill of Fame

George Bowland of Easley. South Carolina, with his two great-grandchildren Sadie and Billy Herenda standing in front of him, who holds the record for the fastest time ever at the Weatherly Hillclimb, was inducted into the Hillclimb’s 2025 spring event this past weekend. Next to Bowland is Hillclimb Association President Joe Cyburt.

top speed of 49.327 seconds. Each driver can run the course several times over the two-day event, to get the best time out of all the runs.

A short shower late Saturday morning put a little damper on the event, but it cleared up and the racing continued. Drivers were not so lucky on Sunday, when a rain shower hit about 3 p.m., bringing the event to an early conclusion.

Eight states were represented by the drivers, In addition to Pennsylvania, drivers came from New Jersey, New York, Virginia, North and South Carolina, and Michigan.

But the farthest a driver came from was Ireland.

Jack Byron came from Silgo, Ireland.

for the library and museum.

The library recently renovated its largest room, with the help of a three-year, $45,000 Pasco Schiavo Foundation grant. Still to be done at the library are a couple of smaller rooms. The library building was purchased for $26,000, but almost four times that much has been invested in it.

The museum recently had an antique wagon wheel for its cannon updated. Wood was replaced on the wheel, while maintaining all of the metal components of the wheel.

The record holder for the fastest time ever at the Weatherly Hillclimb was honored appropriately Sunday.

George Bowland, of Easley, South Carolina, was inducted into the Weatherly Hillclimb’s

Hill of Fame at the spring event of the Hillclimb this past weekend.

Bowland holds the all-time course record of 47.592 seconds.

This year’s best speed belonged to Justin Reed, who drove his DFkitcar Goblin to a

Seven non-profit groups provided homemade food and refreshments – the Centenary United Methodist Church, All Saints and Our Lady of Lourdes parish, the Weatherly Area Community Library, the Weatherly Area Museum, Boy Scout Troop 25 of White Haven, and the Weatherly Area High School Classes of 2026 and 2028.

Proceeds from the food sales will go to operating expenses

The Methodist church is dealing with a dwindling congregation, so the Hillclimb is one of several fundraisers – along with hoagie sales and other food sales – to keep the church going, All Saints and OLOL also hold bingo four times a year, and will hold a bazaar June 28 to fund several projects between the two church buildings, including a sidewalk at OLOL and a new roof for All Saints.

The Boy Scouts use their money for camping, while the high school classes use it for the prom and the annual class trip.

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