READY, SET, SPLASH! at the third annual Polar Plunge for Autism at Nick’s Lake House on the Saturday of St. Patrick’s weekend. The temperature was 50° on Saturday, March 15, but fog and wind made it feel colder. About 65 people took the plunge to raise money for Collabrative Autism Movement. CAM is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering inclusion and understanding of individuals with Autism, providing services and events tailored to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families, ensuring a sensoryfriendly environment. The group works with local businesses and organizations to create an inclusive world for those on the autism spectrum, with events like sensory-friendly haircuts and photo shoots, and inclusive sports teams. To learn more, visit collaborativeautismmovement.com
Photos by Anne Martino
STR cap abolished in Tobyhanna Township
Decision Sparks Debate
by Ruth Isenberg
The discussion surrounding Short Term Rentals (STRs) in Tobyhanna Township has once again ignited strong opinions among community members and officials. The debate reached a pivotal moment at the March 17 Tobyhanna Township Supervisors’ meeting, when a 3-2 vote abolished the township’s cap on short-term rental properties in the town-ship.
Supervisor Ted Wolski made a motion to eliminate
the cap, saying it created a hardship for property owners. He said it was a separate issue from enforcement of existing regulations, to keep out bad actors.
Supervisor Ed Tutrone seconded the motion, saying he felt the cap had encouraged more people to apply for permits, in case they ran out. “We’ve created our own problem,” he said, while agreeing that enforcement of regulations was on-going, and key.
Earlier in the meeting, assistant township manager
See STR CAP, page 4
Maureen Sterner named 2025 Borough Manager of the Year
Jim Thorpe Borough Manager Honored for Exceptional Leadership at the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber’s Mayors’ & Municipal Officials’ Reception
Maureen Sterner was officially recognized as the 2025 Borough Manager of the Year at the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Mayors’ & Municipal Officials’ Reception on March 27. The event, held at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Lehigh Valley/ Allentown, celebrated the achievements of municipal leaders across the region.
The Mayors’ & Municipal Officials’ Reception is an annual event that acknowledges the dedication and accomplishments of mayors, borough managers, township managers, supervisors, and council members from Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, and Northampton Counties in Pennsylvania, as well as Warren County, New Jersey. Each year, the Borough Manager, Township Manager, and Mayor of the Year awards honor individuals who have made a significant impact on their communities, with nominations submitted by local residents and community members.
Maureen Sterner, Borough Manager of Jim Thorpe, was recognized for her outstanding contributions to the borough and her unwavering commitment to community development. Since taking on the role in 2016, Sterner has successfully secured over $16 million in funding for vital infrastructure projects, including major
sewer plant upgrades, a new Public Works garage, and enhancements to Memorial Park. Her leadership has also ensured that Jim Thorpe’s police and public service departments remain well-equipped to serve the community effectively.
With a municipal government career spanning nearly three decades, Sterner’s dedication and expertise have played a pivotal role in the ongoing success of Jim Thorpe. Her recognition as Borough Manager of the Year reflects her commitment to progress, strategic vision, and ability to secure critical funding for borough improvements.
The award was introduced and presented by State Representative Doyle Heffley.
“Maureen’s impact on Jim Thorpe and Carbon County as a whole is immeasurable,” said Kylie Adams-Weiss, Senior Vice President of the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC), a proud partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. “Her efforts have not only enhanced the borough’s appeal as a top tourism destination but have also greatly improved the quality of life for its residents. Maureen’s ability to focus on both the borough’s present needs and long-term success ensures that Jim Thorpe continues to thrive.”
For more information on Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation initiatives, visit www.carbon countychamber.org
PA Representative Doyle Heffley with Borough Manager of the Year Maureen Sterner
PFVFC #1 seeks help from township
by Jim Dino
The Penn Forest Township Fire Co, No, 1 is in trouble, the president of the fire company told the township supervisors at the March 3 meeting.
“The fire company is struggling,” said Tom Lynd, the president and fire chief of the fire company. “Like other fire companies in Carbon County and Pennsylvania, we are faced with dwindling resources. Our income is not sufficient to keep pace with expenses. For the same reason, fire companies have no choice but to merge or close. The members have
been working hard not to let that happen to us, but we are getting frustrated. The fire company will not survive without additional support.”
Lynd said the main source of income for the fire company is its annual fund drive. The rate of return has been 40%, Lynd said.
“Those that donate are very generous, but 60% of the residents don’t contribute to their protection,” Lynd said, “We have an immediate need for additional funding just to maintain our NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) requirements.”
Lynd asked for a meeting, which Supervisor Christian
Bartulovich said he and Supervisor Jim Dernier are in the process of setting up.
Supervisor Scott Lignore questioned why the fire company does not rent out its hall more.
“You have a beautiful hall there,” Lignore said. “I tried to rent it three times, but was turned down each time.”
Lynd said Lignore put his finger on the problem – a lack of manpower.
“We don’t have the manpower to rent out the hall,” Lynd said, “We are trying to rent half of it out to someone who can actively run it.”
Meanwhile, the supervisors granted conditional approval to two land development plans.
The consolidation of a developed and undeveloped lot along Route 903 will be granted once the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation provides written proof they will not require a Highway Occupancy Permit (HOP) for a U-shaped driveway that has existed on the property.
But Bartulovich said the township law states that a state HOP must be granted for every driveway in the township.
Also, a time extension was granted until April 13 for the Getz preliminary land development plan for a selfstorage facility with parking on the east side of Route 903.
The supervisors had granted a time extension for the plan last month to give the developer time to continue negotiations with a nearby landowner who says developing the land will cause his property to flood.
In other business, the supervisors:
--Hired Ray Adams as a full-time, general laborer at $21.05 per hour, pending a drug screen, a check of his driving record, and a state police background check. Lignore asked if former employers could be contacted, but Bartulovich said all they could say is that he worked for them.
Rock Stahovic, of Barry Isett and Associates engineering firm, who works for the township, said he received word in an email the HOP will not be required for the driveway.
--Granted the request of the recreation board for $1,200 to hold an Easter Egg hunt to be held on Sunday, April 13.
Supervisor Roger Meckes said there will be five different age groups of children in the hunt.
Continued from page 1
Crystal Butler had reported that 759 ac-tive permits have been issued, with 8 awaiting approval, and 25 working through workflows of needed information.
Audience members spoke on both sides of the issue. One main fear was having big compa-nies buy up multiple properties to use as STRs. Loss of community was another concern. Several people praised the township’s enforcement, and suggested the compromise of a cap was working.
Joe Crandall emphasized the need for transparency and community involvement, suggest-ing that the issue be placed on the fall ballot. He argued that taxpaying citizens deserve a voice in the matter and pointed out that three members of the decision-making body should abstain due to direct involvement with STRs.
Supervisor John Kerrick urged homeowner associations (HOAs) to take a stand to control STRs within their boundaries. His frustration with the discussion was evident. “This goes on, and on, and on and on.”
Jolene Fette from Pocono Lake provided a personal perspective, expressing concerns about property values and the impact on her family. She mentioned that her children, two of whom purchased homes at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, are now facing inflated property values. “My daughter is not going to be able to buy a home here,” she said, because STRs have pushed home prices so high.
Voting in favor of the motion were Kerrick, Tutrone and Wolski. Opposed were Joe Colyer and Rachel Schickling.
More than just STRs at Tobyhanna Twp.
by Ruth Isenberg
There was other business conducted at the March 17 Tobyhanna Township supervisors’ meeting, before the Short Term Rental discussion.
•$250 was donated to the Pocono Mountain West Little League. The park is ready for opening day, the last Saturday in April. Food trucks have been approved for the event, since public water is not turned on until May 1.
•Brendan Carroll was appointed to the Economic Development Authority, replacing Adam Kerrick. Carroll had served in the past.
•Keystone Consulting’s proposal for the 2025 paving project in the amount of $47,666 was approved.
•Emerald Lakes was designated a Civic & Service Organization for purposes of Small Games of Chance.
•A DCNR grant is available that could be used for a Master Site Plan for Austin T. Blakeslee Park. The grant is a 50% match. Pennoni Engineering’s estimate for a master site plan was around $55,000. The grant would probably not be awarded until 2026, and might be shared with Tunkhannock Township. Heidi Pickard noted that Tobyhanna Township had previously done a master site plan with
Tunkhannock Township at a cost of $45,000.
•Decision on a well isolation wavier was postponed for a month, as groundwater studies may be needed.
•No decision was made on a draft warehouse ordinance. Supervisors raised several objects to the proposed setbacks, noting that they would make parcels, even in an industrial park, unbuildable. The committee will regroup to consider the comments.
•Access to Stoney Hollow Road from the south end of Pocono Lake Preserve was approved for a logging company, with the agreement of the Preserve.
Kidder Township’s new police vehicle is in service and on the road. Police Chief Matthew Kuzma shows it off. It replaces a unit that’s been turned over to Code Enforcement. Note the cameras on top of the car. These license plate readers are connected to a data base in the vehicle to provide information about the status of passing cars and trucks in real time.
JH: Ruth Isenberg
Lot changes OKed for Golden Oaks
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by Ruth Isenberg
Golden Oaks Village has been given approval at the March 27 Kidder Township Supervisors’ meeting to convert three lots originally slated for duplex homes into single family homes. The lots were not large enough for duplexes, according to the developer. Supervisors’ chairman Ray Gluck, who is a resident and board member at Golden Oaks, abstained. Supervisors Bruce Berger, Wilson Klotzman, Louis Pantages and Noel Torres all voted in favor. Resident Kate Lambert asked that there be conformity in the direction
the homes face; Gluck told her that would be part of the planning and zoning process. The meeting opened with audience participation. First up was Elwood Zimmerman, also a resident of Golden Oaks, who is running for the board of supervisors. He introduced himself and explained he has the time and energy to devote to the job.
Todd Sunberg of Lake Harmony Volunteer Fire Company noted that the sensor at the light at Route 903 had been damaged, creating a safety issue with the fire truck. Fire Chief Ralph Lennon
See KIDDER, page 6
Continued from page 5
said he thought the light had been pre-wired for an emitter that could be activated by emergency vehicles. Supervisor Berger suggested the township contact Signal Service and have the emitter installed, and seek reimbursement from PennDOT, rather than waiting for them to do it. Rich Smallenburg from Albrightsville Volunteer Fire Company asked if the light on Route 940 at the Turnpike would also be included; the answer was yes. Final conditional approval was given to Thomas McCool for lot improvement subdivision. The Blue Ridge Real Estate Company Lake Shore Development request for final conditional approval with waivers was tabled until the April 24 meeting. The license plate readers on the new police vehicle are in in service, and are a tremendous tool, according to Chief Matthew Kuzma. In March, 27,971 plates were scanned, of which 1,200 were bad. Citations were issued on 282 of them, including some trucks. An LSA grant is being sought to equip two more cars.
Manager Suzanne Brooks noted that an electronics recycling event will be held July 12, 9 a.m. until the truck is full. She also reported that Jack Frost National will hold an Invitation Golf Tournament for first responders on September 8. A fund has been set up through the Carbon County Community Foundation.
STRs and solars topics in February
by Ruth Isenberg
Complaints about short term rental fee increases were the main subjects brought up by audience members at the February 27 Kidder Township Board of Supervisors’ meeting, along with an objection to the supervisors’ decision to appeal a Zoning Hearing Board approval of an variance for Solar Star Blakeslee 2 LLC for development of a solar project on 11.5 acres on Route 940 across from Harmony Beverage.
Short-term rental property owners complained that fees have risen consistently over the past three years. Questions about what the money is used for, and warnings of unintended consequences of raising the rates too high were answered when supervisors voted to
amend the fee schedule
Supervisor chair Ray Gluck pointed out that safety inspections for commercial properties and fees for shortterm rental permits are two separate categories, and not related. The permit fees are supposed to cover expenses the township incurs because of STRs in the community, such as the number of complaint police and code enforcement officers must handle.
Police Chief Matthew Kuzma confirmed that last year there were over 3,200 calls regarding STRs. Supervisor Noel Torres said there had been more than 700 already this year. Some have been quite serious, including a rape and a death in a hot tub, both under investigation. The Lake Harmony Fire Company responded to over 400 calls, more than any previous year.
Fees for 2025 were
modified to $500 for 2-3 bedrooms, $750 for 4-5 bedrooms, $1,500 for 6-7 bedrooms, and $250 per bedroom for larger properties. All supervisors voted in favor of the increased fees.
Property owner John McElroy protested the decision to appeal the Zoning Hearing Board’s decision regarding a solar farm project, calling it a “clean, environmentally correct project,” and noting that the required setback from the road would make building on the lot impossible as it is configured.
Supervisors did not comment on the matter before voting, saying it was a legal matter not open for discussion. All voted in favor of filing the appeal.
A resolution confirming the Volunteer Service Credit/ Stipend was approved, as was a resolution to increase the salaries to the new state level for supervisors elected in the future, and
regulations for timbering in the township.
A lease agreement of $1/ year with LNP Properties LLC for trail parking from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. was approved, with Gluck, Torres, Bruce Berger and Wilson Klotzman in favor, and Louis Pantages abstaining.
Police committee chair Torres reported that sending a police officer to truck unit training last year has paid off. As of the day of the meeting, with one day a week on truck duty, he had issued $236,000 in fines since January, $20,000 that day alone. The township gets half of the fines collected.
Roadmaster Klotzman reported that township crews salted the road through Split Rock during the ice storm, figuring it was cheaper to pay a guy than to wreck a fire truck, ambulance or police car. The township will bill Split Rock.
Pick Up the Poconos returns for Spring 2025
Volunteer registration open for April 26 region-wide litter cleanup
Celebrate Earth Day by spending time caring for the environment. The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB) is again seeking volunteers for its region-wide litter pick-up
day happening on Saturday, April 26, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (rain or shine).
The Pick Up the Poconos Spring Cleanup is just one component of the PMVB’s “Pick Up the
Wednesday through Saturday 10am-6pm Sunday 11am-4pm
Poconos” campaign, which has resulted in nearly 46,000 bags of trash being picked up and properly disposed of.
Individuals and groups interested in participating can fill out the Volunteer Form or Group SignUp Form located at PickUpthePoconos. com. The deadline to sign up is Friday, April 18, by 5 p.m.
There are 20+ locations across Wayne, Pike, Monroe, and Carbon counties for volunteers to choose from. There are also private cleanups led by community groups, businesses, and Pocono resorts happening in conjunction with this initiative. Volunteers will receive supply kits on
the day of the cleanup consisting of trash bags, gloves, safety vests, and other supplies. The Monroe County Municipal Waste Management Authority plays a large role in coordinating the cleanup, distributing supplies, and properly disposing of the collected litter.
“Those who call the Pocono Mountains home feel passionate about keeping their communities clean and green,” said Chris Barrett, President/CEO, Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau.
“We are thankful for the thousands of volunteers who have, over the years, taken time to participate in Pick Up the Poconos. Their efforts
contribute to the Pocono Mountains being a great place to live, learn, work, and play.”
The Pick Up the Poconos campaign also includes Pocono 3C, an innovative program involving multiple key partners that gives a hand up to individuals who are homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless, by employing them to clean litter from Monroe County roadways. The PMVB also contracts with Adopt-AHighway Litter Removal Service of America, Inc. to clean major highways and entrance/exit ramps throughout the year.
Penn-Kidder Library to host Kentucky Derby fundraiser
Get ready for an afternoon of fun, friendly competition, and community spirit.
The Penn-Kidder Library invites you to the annual Kentucky Derby Fundraiser on Saturday, May 3, from 3:30 to approximately 7 p.m. at Nick’s Lake House, Lake Harmony.
Join us for an exciting event filled with raffles, games, and plenty of chances to claim bragging rights as you cheer on your favorite horse in the Run for the Roses. Whether you’re a longtime Derby enthusiast or just looking for a great way to support your local library, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will directly benefit the Library, helping to support literacy programs, community events, and essential library resources. Your participation makes a difference in keeping the Library thriving and accessible for all.
Activities will inclued raffles, a bake sale, food specials, Best Hat and Best Dressed contests, and plenty of Derby Day fun.
Come as you are, or dressed in your best Derby attire, don your favorite hat, and bring your enthusiasm. Let’s celebrate the Kentucky Derby while supporting a great cause.
Bach and Handel Chorale to present Sacred Oratorio
The Bach and Handel Chorale, based in Jim Thorpe, will perform the sacred oratorio “The Crucifixion” by John Stainer, with text by the Rev. J. Sparrow-Simpson, M.A. on Palm Sunday, April 13, beginning at 4 p.m. The Chorale will perform in the Lutheran Church of St. John’s in the Heights, 319
South Avenue, Jim Thorpe. Randall Douglas Perry, founder and artistic director, will conduct the work, with Audrey Christ serving as accompanist.
Soloists include Edward Sayre, baritone; James Logue, Jr., tenor; and Robert Jones, bass.
The Crucifixion is scored for four-part choir and the
text consists of extracts from the King James Bible, with poetic material written by Stainer’s librettist, Rev. J. Sparrow-Simpson. It also includes several hymns for congregational participation. It is particularly known for its Christian hymn “All for Jesus, All for Jesus.”
The original performance
of this work was given on February 24, 1887 in St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, England, where Stainer was organist and master of the choristers, and continues to be performed to this day.
The performance is a
free will offering concert. No tickets are needed. The Bach and Handel Chorale is celebrating its 40th year singing sacred works of the masters to audiences in Carbon County and beyond.
Trout Festival celebrates Lehigh River history, conservation
The 3rd Annual White Haven Trout Festival hosted by Western Pocono Trout Unlimited will be held at the White Haven Area Community Library and adjacent Railyard Park, 121 Towanda St., White Haven, on Saturday, June 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The public is invited to this free, family friendly event that celebrates the Lehigh River trout fishery and all the waters of the Poconos that are associated with White Haven and the many other river related communities.
As the Lehigh River flows from its source near the towns of Gouldsboro, Thornhurst, Stoddartsville etc. in the northern Poconos and then through central river at White Haven and on to Jim Thorpe and the junction with the Delaware River at Easton, wild trout can be found. White Haven is uniquely located in the central middle portion of the river and has long
been a focal point for river commerce, recreation, culture and history.
Western Pocono Trout Unlimited is pleased to present this event at the beautifully restored and historic White Haven Library/ Community Center and Railyard Park. The festival highlights the importance of conservation and promotes the great work that both public groups and local businesses do in maintaining the special quality of the river’s trout fishery that is so important in providing recreation and economic opportunities to White Haven and all the communities in the Poconos.
A variety of exhibitors will be showcasing their work including conservation organizations, PA Fish and Boat Commissions, PA Game Commission, Hickory Run, Lehigh Gorge, and Nescopeck State Parks, Delaware and Lehigh Canal Heritage Corridor River
Trail, DCNR, fly shops, river guides, artists, crafts people, expert trout fishing speakers, and natural resource groups among others.
Personal fly tying, fly casting demonstrations for veteran fishermen and novices alike will be given throughout the day along with bike and nature hikes on the nearby Delaware and Lehigh Canal river trail. Free childrens’ rods while available will be provided for
kids.
Food and music will be highlighted. A variety of food trucks and an ice cream truck will be available throughout the day. Dining guests will have comfortable, seated outdoor canopied dining areas to enjoy the variety of foods and refreshments all day. Donations from food truck sales will offset costs for the library’s childrens’ programs. Other food and bake sale delights will be
available throughout the day. The event will appeal to newcomers to the river and fly fishing veteran fishermen alike. Call 570-454-4862, 570-510-1189 or the library at 570-443-8776 for more info or if your outdoor organization is interested in setting up a free table provided by the library as an exhibitor. The day-long event is free, and will be held rain or shine.
An Unexpected Gift gives readers picture of life-changing events and their aftermath
by Ruth Isenberg
Heidi Donahue may be best known to Journal readers as a co-principal at Clear Run Elementary School. But she is also a published author, with a book that is a combination of memoir, autobiography and fiction.
What led this busy woman to write a book? Things were stressful at the time of the pandemic, Donahue says. She was promoting selfcare with her colleagues at Pocono Mountain School
District, and knew she had to also practice what she was preaching.
She found she had a love of writing, and started spending time daily putting down her thoughts. As she reconnected with friends, she shared cherished memories from her time as an exchange student in Ecuador. They told her things like, you should write a book, this could be a movie.
She’d participated in writing contests, and things like that, but had kept most of her writing very private.
Turning that private writing into The Unexpected Gift was a lot of work, but work she is really glad she did.
Over four years, Donahue learned about beta readers and self-publishing, making revision after revision. At first she wrote in the third person, but beta readers suggested trying it in first person, almost like a diary. She tried it that way, and found it worked.
Part of what she needed to publish the book, which is subtitled “When love transcends borders and distance,” was having enough self-confidence, believing that she wouldn’t fall flat on her face or get pushback from co-workers or parents of students.
The Unexpected Gift deals with a young exchange student’s experience in Ecuador, adjusting to cultural differences, and then falling in love. It doesn’t end there, though, and deals with the aftermath of the death of the young man before he could join her in the United States, and expressing her grief many years later.
Quite a bit of it is autobiographical, Donahue says, and she is still in communication with people she knew while in Ecuador.
The latter part of the book deals with how she made contact with the family of the young man through Facebook.
“It took a lot of courage,” Donahue says, but “I have no regrets.” The pushback she feared has not occured, and people have told her they have been especially moved by the sections about dealing with grief. That was the hardest part to write, she says, but it was also cathartic. She would be in the basement, writing away, and end up sobbing. But once it was out there, on paper, “such a weight was lifted.”
She has advice for others who have a story to tell. “Go for it.
Just start writing.” And as a bit of a perfectionist herself, she advises “Don’t worry too much about what other people think.”
those we lose. Donahue feels blessed not only to have had two strong loves in her life, but even more so to have been able to share part of her story with others.
An Unexpected Gift has recently received two Book Fest Awards 2nd Place in Literary Fiction: Love Story & Romance, and 3rd Place in Fiction: Contemporary Romance.
Donahue has another book in the works. It’s about 75% on paper, this time totally fiction though related to education. She hopes to complete Secrets Scribbled in Chalk by summer of next year.
Writing, she says, has helped her as a principal and a leader to appreciate that everyone comes to things from a different place. As a teacher who was one of her early readers told her, it’s our job to remember
Autographed copies of The Unexpected Gift are available locally at Bliss Beauty & Body Co., Cresco, Ledet Family Chiropractic Center, Reeders, and The Chakra House, Pocono Lake. It has been donated to the Clymer, Dimmick, Pocono Mountain and Western Pocono Libraries, and other libraries around the region. She will be part of a local author meet and greet at the Barrett Paradise Friendly Library in Cresco from 1-3 p.m. on April 12. The book has been translated into Spanish, and is planned as an audiobook, read by Donahue.
Donahue’s website is www.heididonohue.com and the book is available at https://a.co/d/8XngKD9 Her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/ heidi.donohue.39
Carbon County property transfers complete through March 21
Kidder Township
Paulo Costa to Terry M. Owens, Flemington, New Jersey, property at 49 Snow Plow Hill, Lake Harmony, $215,000.
Patricia McGurrin to Foxtail Management, LLC, Linwood, New Jersey, property at 53 Eastwoods, Lake Harmony, $1215,000.
Kenneth I. Sultanof to John J. O’Connor, Saint Michaels, Maryland, property at 202 Midlake Drive, Unit C165, Big Boulder, Lake Harmony, $360,000.
73 Red Fox, LLC, to J.A. Mohan Real Estate, LLC, Morrisville, property at 73 Red Fox Court, Lake Harmony, $380,000.
Gerald McGuire to RP Mainstreet, LLC, Morrisville, property at 48 Mountainwoods Drive, Lake Harmony, $510,000.
Christina Matirko to James Robert Doxsey, 307 Golden Oaks Drive, White Haven, property at 307 Golden Oaks Drive, $290,000.
Robert Lewis to Brelbe, LLC, Newtown Square, property at 44 Short Hill Road, Lake Harmony, $390,000.
Anthony Krystopa to Benjamin E. Dunford, Easton, Maryland, property at 43 Midway, Lake Harmony, $400,000.
Richard H. Doyle to David Caskey, Califon, New Jersey, House 6, Snow Ridge, Section A, $365,000.
John D. Traub to John D,. Traub, Hatboro, property at 141 Crest Drive, Lake Harmony, $1.
Sheriff of Carbon County to U.S. Bank, N.A., Dallas, Texas, property at 5 Bruin Court, Lake Harmony, $1. Tonya Ann Muncey to Germindia Poconos,LLC,
North Brunswick, New Jersey, property at 173 S. Lake Drive, Lake Harmony, $405,000.
MLD Poconos, LLC, to Alvin Joseph Fenton, Media, property at 324 Hummingbird Way, Lake Harmony, $455,000.
Paul Sosna to Eric Stone, Morgan town, property at 39 Midlake Drive, No. 301, Lake Harmony, $494,000.
Michael McNamara to Lisa Maria Giancaterino, Harleysville, property at 28 Laurelwoods Drive, Lake Harmony, $395,000.
James O’Neil to Tatyana Potapova, Norristown, property at 16 Gregory Place, Lake Harmony, $230,000.
Joanne P. Quinlan to 240 Properties, LLC, Wayne, property at 66 Birch St., Lake Harmony, $375,000.
Scott D. Plichta to Adam J. Berger, Florham Park, New Jersey, property at 32 Mountainwoods Drive, Lake Harmony, $480,000.
Geslier Davis to Fantasy Dwelling, LLC, Roosevelt, New York, property at 24 Elevator, White Haven, $247,476.
Elizabeth Irwin to Irene Signorelli, Huntingdon Valley, property at 491 Moseywood Road, Lake Harmony, $242,000.
Hale Harrison to Alberta Harrison, Ocean City, Maryland, property at 152 Midway, White Haven, $1.
Jacqueline Guaman to 6 Sage Road, LLC, Belleville, New Jersey, property at 6 Sage Road, Lake Harmony, $170,517.
HK PA Properties, LLC, to Romik Yeghnazary, Las Vegas, Nevada, property at 114 Estates Drive, Lake Harmony, $638,000.
Barbra Curro to Barbra Curro, Lindenhurst, New York, property at 361 Moseywood Road, Lake Harmony, $1.
Sharon B. Clink to Stephen Servis, Doylestown, property at 38 Dove Drive, Lake Harmony, $250,000.
Alan J. Buckley to Mary T. Buckley, Collingswood, New Jersey, property at 9 Crest Drive, Lake Harmony, $1.
Kylie Danielle Kaczor to Kylie D. Kaczor, King of Prussia, two transactions, properties at 47 Lakeview Drive and 27 Maplewood Road, both in Lake Harmony, $1 each.
Penn Forest Township
Frank P. Taptich to Frank P. Taptich, 72 Lipo Way, P.O. Box 306, Albrightsville, Lot 1347A, Towamensing Trails, $1.
Jose Moncayo to Abhinav Mehla, 147 Mountain Road, Albrightsville, property at 147 Mountain Road, $329,000.
Joseph Aprile to Michael Deluca Jr., Hellertown,
property at 99 Skyline Drive, Albrightsville, $279,900.
Dekk Enterprize, LLC, to Roxane M. Snyder, 9 Cayuga Drive, Jim Thorpe, property at 9 Cayuga Drive, $1.
Boguslaw Stelmach to Loksang Thapa Magar, Huntington Station, New York, Towamensing Trails Lot V1540, Section E-V, $510,000.
Jacqueline Tse to Kristen Margaret Best, Sweet Valley, property at 161 Spencer Lane, Albrightsville, $445,000.
Rita Ann Morabito to Paul Bruno Mazzarese, Elmont, New York, Lot 467, Section E, Pleasant Valley West, $1.
Ruthann Hendricks to Andrew David Frobase, Emmaus, property at 35 Jeffers Way, Albrightsville, $155,000.
Sheriff of Carbon County to Hilltop Properties 2, LLC, Roaring Brooks Township, property at 95 Meckesville Road, Albrightsville, $130,500.
Abdul R. Issifu to Abdul R. Issifu, 193 Patten Circle, Albrightsville, property at 193 Paten Circle, $1.
Devita Wood to Joshua Kase, 407 Patten Circle, Box 130, Albrightsville, property at 407 Patten Circle, $245,000.
Ronald P. Dunbar to Chris L. Rau, 26 Rau Road, Jim Thorpe, Lot 39-C, Hickory Run Forest, $12,000
Betsy Rasmussen to L & B Management Partners, LLC, Hatboro, property at 144 N. Shore Drive, Albrightsville, $180,000.
See TRANSFERS, page 13
Transfers
Continued from page 12
Penn Forest Township
Charles D. Mullen to Kerin Handal, Warminster, property ay 187 Keats Lane, Albrightsville, $182,000.
Alice L. Maguire to Lorelei Faeth, 2 Sycamore Circle, Albrightsville, property at 2 Sycamore Circle, $245,000.
Antonio Menniti to Brian C. Cleary, Havertown, property at 4 Hemlock Drive, $290,000.
Thomas Graciolett to Xtra Point Consulting, LLC, Garnersville, New York, lots 339 and 340, Hickory Run Forest, $4,000.
Christopher D. Brady to Mary Sue Ackerman, 106 Indian Trail, Jim Thorpe, lots 7 and 8, Section A, Indian Trail Area, Bear Creek Lakes, $1.
Brad E. Menaker to Cody
Beer, 19 Sokoki Circle, Jim Thorpe, property at Sokoki Circle, $295,000.
Anthony Bellina Jr. to Happy Neighbor, LLC, 1787 Route 903, Jim Thorpe, lots 552 and 553, Hickory Run Forest, $6,000.
Michaele Salcau to Pocono Cash Home Buyers, LLC, Mount Pocono, property at 27 Hillyer Lane, Albrightsville, $90,000.
Vishnu Kashidas to Vishnu Kashidas, 87 Yellow Run Road, Jim Thorpe, property at 87 Yellow Run Road, $1.
Dana B. Ansbach to Todd Gilbert Royles, Pensacola, Florida, Lot 253, Section A, Marty Axman in the Poconos, $25,000.
Wico E. Van Genderen to Michol Marie Schukis, P.O. Box 691, Albrightsville, property at 116 Parker Trail, Albrightsville, $499,000. Equity Trust Company to Tod Giosa, Broomall, property at 23 Spencer Lane,
Albrightsville, $645,000.
Derrick Boyland to Derrick Boyland, 741 Old Stage Road, Albrightsville, property at 741 Old Stage Road, $268,350.50.
Anita L. Candya to 545 Prospect Place, Brooklyn, New York, property on Patten Circle, Lot 79, Section 1-A, $25,000.
4 U Homes, LLC, to Olga Vishnevetsky, 43 Saginaw Drive, Jim Thorpe, property at 43 Saginaw Drive, $550,000.
Thomas McCullough to David J. Ellis Jr., 88 Rosewood Drive, Jim Thorpe, Lot 140, Sunrise Ridge Development, $20,500.
Scott Gregory to John J. Devlin, Springfield, property at 265 Kilmer Trail, Albrightsville, $480,000.
Land Trustings, LLC, to Younique Robert Guiness, Bridgeport, Connecticut, Mt. Pocahontas Lot 977, Section 3, $2,500.
Road, $400,000.
Oleg Kapustyansky to Lydia Kryvosheieva, Brooklyn, New York, property at 531 Towamensing Trail, Albrightsville, $185,000.
Karen Louise McCann to Garmani Lu Maw, New York, New York, Indian Mountain Lakes Lot 412, Section C, $3,500.
Calabree Building Contractors, LLC, to Matthew Kohler, Marlton, New Jersey, Towamensing Trails Lot 50, Section 1, $25,000.
Arthur R. Poupard to Arthur R. Poupard, Chalfont, Towamensing Trails Lot 1770A (former lots 1769 and 177), Section 4, $1.
Steven Gargiulo to Steven Gargiulo, 83 Delaware Ave., Jim Thorpe, Pleasant Valley West Lot 225 (former lots 224 and 225), Section B, $1.
LLC, Plymouth Meeting, property at 327 Parker Trail, Albrightsville, $320,000.
Stephanie Corporan to Adrian Steckel, 55 Mountain Road, Albrightsville, property at 55 Mountain Road, $315,000.
Elizabeth Hetzl Defazio to Elizabeth Hetzl Defazio, 120 Keats Lane, Albrightsville, property at 120 Keats Lane, $1.
Sandra L. DiCesari to CPG Land, LLC, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Lot 23, Section 1C, Valley View Estates, $12,000.
Robert S. Russell to Noel Morning, Broomall, Lot 1127, Section III, Towamensing Trails, $7,687.28.
Paul Donnelly to Timothy Pristatskiy, 916 Old Stage Road, Albrightsville, Lot 462, Section I, Towamensing Trails, $8,000.
Timothy M. Fleming to William E. Reiter II, Wilmington, Delaware, property at 238 Towamensing Trail Road, Albrightsville, $222,000.
AARC Properties, LLC, to Maleek Jackson, Philadelphia, Indian Mountain Lakes Lot 308, Section N-I, $1,500.
Moyer Properties, Inc., to Jesse Katz, 86 Algonkin Road, Jim Thorpe, property at 86 Algonkin Road, $290,000.
Richard G. Gregg to Jorshua D. Cano, P.O. Box 474, Albrightsville, property at 55 Hummingdrive Road, $250,000.
Evada Group, LLC, to Robert Wielgolaski, East Stroudsburg, property at 54 Sassafras Road, Albrightsville, $1.
4 U Homes, LLC, to Michael Daniel Sokalsky, 201 Behrens Road, Jim Thorpe, property at 201 Behrens
ASJS Consulting, LLC, to Carlos L. Medina, Allentown, lots 283 and 284, Section C, Pleasant V alley West, $7,450.
Land Trustings, LLC, to Herbert Rodriguez, Amityville, New York, property at 2508 Nosirrah Road, Albrightsville, $8,075.
Steven Douglas Watts to L & B Management Partners, LLC, Hatboro, property at 6 Uffelman Lane, Albrightsville, $160,000.
Nettie Candya to Anita L. Candya, Ewing, New Jersey, property at 79 Patten Circle, Albrightsville, $1.
4 U Homes, LLC, to Arthur R. Stinson, 97 Wild Creek Drive, Jim Thorpe, property at 97 Wild Creek Drive, $460,000.
Derek M. Solt to Autumn R. Madea, 825 Lake Drive, Lehighton, property at 825 Lake Drive, $227,500.
Boguslawa T. Krupinski Kennaway to Felix M. Truex, Brielle, New Jersey, property at Jonas Mountain Drive and Stone Ridge, $30,000.
Matija Kurek to 728,
Renata A. McGee to Jacek Wasielak, 61 Cottonwood Drive, Jim Thorpe, Lot V1581, Section V, Towamensing Trails, $14,000.
James R. Gault to Stan A. Serfass, Inc., 3113 Birchwood Drive, Kunkletown, Lot 670, Section II, Towamensing Trails, $26,500.
Peter Horoshko to Shane Young, Metuchen, New Jersey, property at 99 Seneca Road, Albrightsville, $276,000.
Edmund W. Cahill Jr. to Edmund J. Cahill Jr., 89 Wylie Circle, P.O. Box 1814, Albrightsville, property at 89 Wylie Circle, $1.
Gary A. Rex to Gary A. Rex, 79 White Oak Drive, Jim Thorpe, property at 79 White Oak Drive, $1.
Scott A. Rooney to CF Empire, LLC, Wanaque, New Jersey, property at 65 Byron Lane, Albrightsville, $300,000.
William F. Mocci to Michael Haugh, Jamison, property at 63 Wylie Circle, Albrightsville, $176,000.
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THEME: DESSERTS
ACROSS
1. Like some champagnes
5. Undergarment
8. Dashboard acronym
11. Poison ivy woe
12. Took to court
13. Milan’s La ____
15. Afresh
16. Globes and such
17. SNL’s fortÈ
18. *Ladyfingers+coffee liqueur
20. Grammy of sports
21. Jeweler’s unit
22. *Like walnuts on ice cream
43. Contaminating punch
45. Flammable anesthetics
47. a.k.a. acid
48. Military group
50. Jezebel’s deity
52. *Espresso+gelato
56. Forgo
57. Palo ____, CA
58. Sacred image
59. Southern cuisine pods
60. Show the guns
61. Small stream
62. “The Star-Spangled Banner” author
63. Toni Morrison’s “____ Baby”
23. *Thin Mint or Carmel deLite
26. *Apple dip
30. Nelson Mandela’s org.
31. Profoundness, pl.
34. Frost-covered
35. Ticket leftovers
37. Pathet
38. Lazybones
39. Samoan money
40. A in AU, Alabama
42. Heidi Samuel ___ Klum
24. Like beer at a kegger (2 words)
25. Round openings
26. Cabbage, in France
27. “The House at Pooh Corner” author
28. African chieftain
29. Ancient Greeks’ harps
32. Socket counterpart
33. Bar bill
36. *Filo dough +nuts+honey
38. Book opener
40. Uniting conjunction
41. Robin Hood in Disney’s “Robin Hood” (2 words)
44. Keys
46. Mecca to Medina exodus
48. Type of lily
49. Happily ever when?
50. *Make Alaska
51. Gossamer
53. Vinegar or lemon juice, to a chef
54. Communicated
55. James Bond’s “For Your Eyes ____”
56. Asian cuisine pan
57. Astern
64. Adeline or Addison, for short
DOWN
1. Troublesome child
2. Jasmine of “Aladdin,” e.g.
3. Olympic cast-out
4. Smack
5. Anatomical sac
6. Overthrow by argument
7. Marketing creations
8. Wild onion
9. Clever tactic
10. Spanish sea
12. Evening party
13. See-through
14. *Eggs+milk+sugar
19. Old ____, or unpopped popcorn kernels
22. Be, singular past tense
23. Uses a fishing reel
obituaries
CHERYLYNN FRANTZ
Cherylynn “Cheryl” Frantz, 55, of Blakeslee, died Saturday, March 15, 2025 as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident that also claimed the life of her mother. She was the wife of Samuel Frantz, with whom she shared 32 years of marriage.
Born on August 26, 1969 in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Franklin J. Sr. and JoAnn (Bonsall) Kiefer.
She was a graduate of Palmerton High School, further educated herself at the University of Phoenix and in 2011 became certified in Braille. In 2009 Cheryl began working as a paraprofessional at Pleasant Valley High School and in 2019 started as a special education assistant teacher for Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 where she was dedicated to one-on-one teaching.
Cheryl was a very active member of the Pocono Mountain Bible Fellowship
Church in Mt. Pocono, where she helped with VBS and was in charge of the sound system and livestream technology. She was involved in the Irish dance community, enjoyed cooking and baking (especially Christmas cookies), volunteered at the West End Food Pantry, loved kayaking, enjoyed spending time at the ocean, and was a 5K Marathon runner.
In addition to her husband, surviving are two daughters, Katarina Frantz and Madison Frantz, both of Blakeslee; and a brother, Franklin J. Kiefer, Jr. and wife Dana of New Tripoli.
Services for Cheryl and her mother, JoAnn, were held March 29 with Pastor James Farvee officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial remembrances be made to the West End Food Pantry, 516 Kunkletown Road, Kunkletown, PA 18058.
HELEN WILLIAMS
Helen Williams, 79, of Gilbert, passed away Monday, March 24, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital-Anderson Campus.
She was the loving wife of the late William “Jack” Williams.
Born on November 27, 1945, in Lehighton, she was the daughter of the late Leon Zacharias and the late Elsie (Green) Zacharias.
Helen is survived by three daughters, Teresa Wescott and her husband Larry, Michelle Primm, and Kelly Sanders and her husband Jeff; and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Marvin Zacharias. Helen will be deeply missed by all her friends and family. No services are scheduled at this time. Helen and her husband, Jack, will be laid to rest in Gilbert Cemetery.
The Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209, Brodheadsville, has been entrusted with the arrangements. www.kresgefuneralhome. com
NANCY A. SHUPP
Nancy A. Shupp, 84, of Brodheadsville, passed away on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 in Brookmont Health Care Center in Effort.
She was the loving wife of Lee E. Shupp. They would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in July.
Born in East Stroudsburg, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Mamie (Hawk) Hook.
Nancy was a graduate of Polk Township High School in Kresgeville and was the valedictorian of her class.
She worked as a seamstress at the former Nova Sportswear in Brodheadsville for 20 years and then after its closing, she was the store manager at R. W. Altemose & Son in Brodheadsville for 25 years.
She was a member of Salem UCC in Gilbert.
Nancy loved antique shopping and gardening and was especially proud of her flowers. Most of all though, Nancy was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend who will be missed by all who knew her.
In addition to her husband, Nancy is survived by a son,
Edward Shupp and his wife Cheryl of Brodheadsville; a daughter, Tammy Gower and her husband Steven of Effort; a brother, Barry Hook of Palmerton; three sisters, Grace Borger of Palmerton, Virgie Klopp of Fleetwood and Shirley Neff of Kunkletown; four grandchildren, Jeremiah Gower and his wife Shannon, Joseph Shupp and his wife Danielle, Jonathan Shupp, and Steven Gower and his wife Amanda; four greatgrandchildren, Hunter Shupp, Jackson Shupp, Logan Gower and Emily Gower. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Pauline, Betty and Helen. The Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209 Brodheadsville, was in charge of arrangements.
JOHN JERRY CARUSO
obituaries
JOSEPH JOHN HUDY
Joseph John Hudy, 75, of Brodheadsville, passed away Monday, March 3, 2025, at Lehigh Valley Pocono Hospice House, East Stroudsburg.
He was the loving husband of Cynthia Anne (Wolfe) Hudy. They celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary in July of last year.
Born on November 24, 1949, in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Joseph Charles Hudy and the late Josephine (Labrusciano) Hudy.
Joseph graduated from Plymouth Whitemarsh High School and Montgomery County Technical School in 1968. He began his career as an assistant engineer printing circuit boards for Univac in Blue Bell, PA. He then worked as an engineering services manager for Decision Data in Hatboro, PA. Later, he had a stint working for Exxon, and Genicom in Waynesboro, VA, before ending his career working at Dialogic/Intel in Parsippany, NJ, retiring in 2008.
Joseph was a true family man. Most of all, he was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all his friends and family.
In addition to his wife, Cynthia, he is survived by two daughters, Carolyn Suzanne Lobel, and Kathleen Marie Hudy-Bremer and her husband Eric; a halfsister, Dottie Simon; two grandchildren, Marissa Elisabeth Lobel, and Bailey Meren Lobel; and three great-grandchildren, Owen Christman, Greyson Lobel, and Noah Lobel.
A memorial service was held March 12, at the Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209, Brodheadsville, with Rev. Jason Vanderburg officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, 1359 Broadway Suite 1509, New York, NY, 10018.
www.kresgefuneralhome. com
RICHARD JOHN BAUER
Richard John Bauer, 64, of Effort, passed away Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Brookmont Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Effort.
He was the loving husband of Kathleen J. (Fehr) Bauer. They celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary in November of last year.
Born on November 27, 1960, in New York City, NY, he was the son of the late Frank J. Bauer and the late Georgiana J. (Pool) Bauer.
Richard was a jack-of-alltrades working several jobs throughout his career. He loved his cars and owned several throughout his life. He was also an avid licensed ham radio operator and always enjoyed communicating with others. Most of all, he was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Richard will be deeply missed by all his friends and family.
John Jerry Caruso, 68, passed away on February 20, 2025, peacefully at home. He was born to John and Beatrice Caruso on March 19, 1956, in Newark, New Jersey. He graduated from Bloomfield High, class of ‘73.
John married his love, Peggy Staub, on September 19, 1980. They shared 38 years in marriage and raised 2 children. John was a devoted family man, who worked hard to give his family a warm and loving home, and who went out of his way to show kindness to others. He loved his God Jehovah, and it brought him great joy to share the Bible’s promise of living forever in paradise on earth with no more pain, sickness, or suffering. (Revelation 21:3,4) His strong faith in the face of a prolonged terminal illness was a true inspiration to others. He was
always so loving, positive and kind-hearted. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. We look forward to seeing him strong and healthy in the near future.
John is survived by his daughter and her husband, Miranda and Sean Gilchrist, his mother Beatrice Caruso, and his brother Joseph Caruso.
He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret Caruso, his son Robert Caruso, his sister Ann Valvano, and his father John A. Caruso. According to his wishes there will be no public service.
The Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209, Brodheadsville, has been entrusted with the arrangements. www.kresgefuneralhome. com
JOANN ELIZABETH KIEFER
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In addition to his wife, Kathleen, he is survived by a son, Anthony Bauer and his significant other Amber; two daughters, Samantha Bauer and Kristi Bauer; a grandson, Beau Bauer; a sister, Donna Tortorici; and a brother, Robert Bauer and his wife Debbie. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Anthony Tortorici.
A visitation will be held on Friday, April 4, from 1 to 2: p.m. at the Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209, Brodheadsville. Memorial services will follow at 2 p.m. with Father Robert Simon officiating. www.kresgefuneralhome. com
JoAnn Elizabeth Kiefer, 75, of Blakeslee, died Saturday, March 15, 2025, as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident that also claimed the life of her daughter. She was the widow of Franklin J. Kiefer, Sr. who died September 14, 2018. Born on January 15, 1950, in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Leroy and Dorothy (Lynch) Bonsall.
She was an avid bird watcher and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, making arts and crafts, ceramics, horses, wildlife and animals.
Surviving are her son, Franklin J. Kiefer, Jr. and wife Dana of New Tripoli; son-in-law, Samuel Frantz of Blakeslee; and four granddaughters, Lana Kiefer, Sophie Kiefer, Katarina Frantz and Madison Frantz. Her daughter, Cherylynn “Cheryl” Frantz also passed away on March 15, 2025 and she was preceded in death by two brothers, Leroy H. Bonsall III and Donald F. Bonsall.
Services for JoAnn and her daughter, Cherylynn were held March with Pastor James Farvee officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial remembrances be made to the West End Food Pantry, 516 Kunkletown Road, Kunkletown, PA 18058.
obituaries
SANDRA J. SPAHN
Sandra J. Spahn, 84, of Albrightsville, passed away Friday, March 28, at Heritage Hill Senior Community, Weatherly.
She was the loving wife of the late Robert J. Spahn. They celebrated 56 years of marriage together before his passing in 2019.
Born on February 16, 1941, in Roanoke, AL, she was the daughter of the late Hoyt Moses and the late Wilmetta (Weathers) Moses.
Sandra was an elementary school teacher for most of
her life, teaching at Moravian Academy in Bethlehem for many years. She was an avid reader and had the opportunity to travel to parts of the world like Ireland and Paris, France. Most of all, she was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Sandra will be deeply missed by all her friends and family. She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Jean McIntyre; and two grandsons, William Walter Gebhardt and Benjamin
Kyle McIntyre. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Jane Moses.
No services are scheduled at this time. Cremation will take place in H.G. Smith Crematory, Stroudsburg.
The Kresge Funeral Home, 1763 Route 209, Brodheadsville, has been entrusted with the arrangements. www.kresgefuneralhome. com
Men to Boys breakfasts at Full Gospel Holiness
Full Gospel Holiness Church, is hosting a Men to Boys Mentoring Breakfast, the second Saturday of every month, 9 a.m. to Noon.
Pastor, Elder Leanon Trawick, and the Full Gospel Holiness Church Of God In Christ, are committed to bridging the gap between our men and boys of all nationalities, both young and of age. It is also our vision to support our young men who are single parents at home, to show our young men how to be successful in life, by teaching them the value of hard work, love, and respect
of one another, to honor and respect their parents, elders, and leaders. We welcome men, young men, fathers, and sons, to join us here at: Full Gospel Holiness Church of God in Christ, 167 Summit Avenue, Pocono Summit PA 18346.
The Bible instructs us to: “train up a child in the way he should go: And when he is old, he will not depart from it”. Proverbs 22:6.
So come and join us, as we eat, talk, and share in this new upcoming season. All men are welcome.
Sunrise service greets Easter at Shawnee
As the darkness of night gently lifts to reveal the first light of dawn, the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, situated along the serene Delaware River in East Stroudsburg, becomes a place of gathering, reflection, and celebration. This picturesque locale, renowned for its stunning views and peaceful ambiance, is ready to host an event that epitomizes the spirit of renewal and communal harmony: the Easter Sunrise Service.
Scheduled for Sunday, April 20, this event calls individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together in the early morning chill, united by a shared desire to commemorate Easter amidst the natural splendor and reflective peace of the Shawnee Inn. All are welcome, regardless of denomination.
This traditional service commemorates Mary’s discovery of the empty tomb, marking a pivotal moment of joy and revelation. Attendees have the privilege of witnessing Christ’s symbolic rebirth as the sun rises over the river, casting
the first hopeful light over the Pocono Mountains. The tranquil nature setting, complemented by soul-stirring hymns and an inspiring message, aims to foster a deep sense of connection and contemplation among those present.
In its third year, this event has attracted folks from far and wide, mirroring the rich mosaic of faiths and cultures beautifying the Poconos community.
Participants are encouraged to arrive at the Shawnee River with lawn chairs or blankets in tow, ready to embrace the day’s first light on Easter morning. The worship service will start promptly at 6:30 a.m. and conclude by 7:15 a.m. The service will be relocated to a covered pavilion along the river if the weather does not cooperate. No prior registration is needed, and no offerings will be solicited, ensuring an open and accessible event for all who wish to join in the celebration of Easter’s promise.
Puzzle Answers
Water
at Risk
What’s Behind the Burn Bans?
by Carol Hillestad for Brodhead Watershed Association
Our creeks looked more like rocky roads than water bodies until recent rain and snow finally broke our long fall drought. Red and white “Burn Ban” signs had shown up along roads throughout the Brodhead Watershed and elsewhere in Monroe County. Did you ever wonder who decides when those signs need to go up? And why they show up in different townships about the same time? In Pennsylvania, it’s the district forester who requests a countywide burn ban, after half the fire chiefs in the county request it. The signs are coming down now, but in Pennsylvania
most kinds of open burning are prohibited. Exceptions include clean wood, propane, natural gas and store-bought fire logs, paraffin logs, or wood pellets. And it’s illegal to burn many specific kinds of trash in a household burn barrel — everything from pet waste and demolition waste, to furniture, mattresses and boxsprings, to tires, car parts and electronics. Really? Why?
A household burn barrel can spew out enough toxic crud to make breathing anywhere nearby risky. That smoke includes carbon monoxide, dioxins and heavy metals, ultra-fine solid particles, acid-containing vapor and other gunk that no one should breathe — not you, not your kids, your dog
or your neighbors.
Things have changed since your grandaddy burned trash out behind the barn — because household trash itself has changed. Today, it’s a witch’s brew of plastic coatings, synthetic dyes and fabrics, literally hundreds of chemicals and materials that are released into the air when burned.
Children are especially at risk; so are people with existing conditions. Even well downwind, the toxic air can damage lungs and eyes, and the very ashes left behind are dangerous. And, oh yes, all that nastiness impacts drinking water, too. The airborne toxins eventually settle on waterways and the earth, and along with those noxious
Local filmmaker’s debut feature film, High Value Man, now streaming on Tubi
Blakeslee-based filmmaker Christopher English is celebrating the release of his debut feature film, High Value Man, now streaming on Tubi. The film, which was brought to life with the help of local actors and businesses, is a testament to the talent and creativity thriving in the Pocono Mountains.
Shot entirely in the region, High Value Man features performances from local actors and prominently highlights Wingz and a Prayer, a Pocono Summit restaurant known for serving the best wings in the Pocono Mountains. The restaurant’s unique ambiance is woven into the story, making it an
essential part of the film’s setting.
“As a filmmaker, I wanted to tell a story that was grounded in authenticity and reflective of the community I love,” said Christopher English. “Blakeslee is full of talented people and amazing small businesses, and I’m proud to showcase them in my first feature. Seeing High Value Man streaming on Tubi is an incredible moment for me and for everyone who helped make this project possible.”
The film, a heartfelt drama exploring themes of relationships and personal growth, is already resonating with audiences on Tubi. English hopes its success will
ashes can foul the soil, creeks, groundwater — and private wells.
So, no, you shouldn’t burn that old couch or even cardboard (you’d be surprised what’s in cardboard these days).
Wildfire is a real risk we can all understand. Burning trash can be deadly, too.
Brodhead Watershed Association protects water quality and quantity throughout our area. Get involved! Become a member! www.brodheadwatershed. org
For more information: Check your local regulations about open burning. They must be at least as strong as state requirements, but some municipalities have much tighter regulations. Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection at https://www.dep.pa.gov/ OurCommonWealth/ pages/Article.aspx? post=56#:~:text=What are the rules about,recycling markets and reduce waste
inspire other creatives in the Pocono Mountains to pursue their own artistic ambitions.
High Value Man is now available to stream for free on Tubi. Local fans are encouraged to watch and support this homegrown film, celebrating the vibrant talent in the Pocono Mountains.
About Christopher English Christopher English is an independent filmmaker from Blakeslee, passionate about crafting authentic stories with local roots. High Value Man is his debut feature film and a celebration of the community that helped bring it to life.
Protecting Clean Water Together
All those plastics you thought you couldn’t recycle? Now you can!
by Carol Hillestad for Brodhead Watershed Association
The world has a plastic problem. And it’s not “just” that as much 40 percent of the ocean’s surface is now covered in plastic — with billions of tons being added every day.
Plastic is also in our bodies. Our lungs, our blood streams, our hearts. And not just in adults — it’s even in the organs of newborn babies.
Just ponder that thought for a moment. As hard as we try to stay fit, eat well, and live a healthy lifestyle, our bodies are invaded every day by minuscule micro plastics which are impossible to avoid.
That makes it crucial to keep plastic out of the environment, where it breaks down into ever-moreinfinitesimal bits. Those plastic grocery bags drooping from roadside trees. The
You may be used to recycling the basics like office paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and number 1 and 2 plastics. Take the next step. You really can make a difference. And wouldn’t Earth Day this year, April 22, be a great time to start?
The new “extra” plastic recycling is available at The Waste Authority’s location
at 1114 Military Road, Stroudsburg, PA. It’s open 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday.
Sure, it may take a little extra effort to get there — but you can squeeze a lot of these thin plastics into a small container. Just stash the stuff for a month or two, then take a drive to recycle them. Earth
— and your own body — will thank you.
Get info and register for recycling at https:// thewasteauthority.com/ Brodhead Watershed Association protects water quality and quantity throughout our area. Get involved! Become a member! www.brodheadwatershed. org
LERTA meeting draws mixed reaction
by Pat Albano
produce bags, ziplock bags, and bubble wrap. Plastic shipping envelopes, ice bags, and electronics wrap.
The good news is that ALL of those things can now be recycled in the Brodhead watershed!
Everything from plastic shipping envelopes, pallet wrap and stretch film to bread bags and cereal bags, case overwrap for beverages, even dry cleaning bags and product wraps — you can start stashing that stuff right now. Because now, thanks to The Waste Authority in Monroe County, you can recycle them.
Instead of stuffing your trash can with Amazon packaging, now you can do something positive with it. Take it to the Military Road Recycling Center in Stroudsburg to be turned into ”lumber” for decks, railings and other uses —instead of having it end up clogging your body.
Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Robison opened the February 19 Pocono Mountain School Board meeting with a heartfelt tribute to student Hailey Lopez, who recently excelled in the youth art exhibit and is a proud member of the National Honor Society. Robison stated, “Your talents are truly remarkable, and we are proud of you.” She also commended East High School student Charlie Arnold, who organized a school dress-down day, raising $4,104 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Arnold, an 11-year cancer survivor, mentioned they are on track to raise $25,000 for the organization.
Dr. Catherine Sweeny provided updates on the Endeavors in Social Studies initiative. Students from both East and West High Schools shared their experiences with new AP course offerings in American Government and Politics, as well as the AP Research Seminar, which aims to enhance writing and critical thinking skills. Teachers also elaborated on the use of Magic School,
an AI-based platform that creates academic content, aligns interests with different grade levels, and enables quick assessments using AI.
The focus then shifted to the subject of LERTA. The meeting was filled with community residents eager to voice their opinions.
Board president Marion Pyzik clarified that the meeting’s primary goal was to decide whether to attend a hearing with the township regarding the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Abatement (LERTA), not to approve it outright. LERTA is a program designed to grant tax exemptions on improvements made to business properties and is a topic with strong opinions on both sides.
Pyzik noted many residents responded by asking the board to reject LERTA outright. One resident asked the Board to table the LERTA proposal, stating, “Do not rush into these as rural areas are being destroyed by developers—once polluted it is too late.” Another resident added, “We are stewards of this land [Poconos] and there are many environmental consequences; traffic, noise, pollution,
and deforestation that are unintended consequences of development.”
A real estate broker advocating for LERTA argued, “Many safeguards and specialties including PennDOT, engineering, Army Corps of Engineers, and conservation efforts go into protecting our land. LERTA has benefits for the district.” Another resident stated, “I have heard many different opinions; however, LERTA is one way to offset high tax rates.”
After exhausting all opinions on LERTA, President Pyzik asked for a vote on a meeting with the township which passed. This caused outbursts from residents, with Pyzik reminding everyone, “We showed you respect, and I ask that you quickly leave.”
Joseph Colozza, the Chief Financial Officer, called for a vote on the preliminary budget’s final due date. He emphasized it is not the final budget and highlighted penalties. Dr. Robison concluded the meeting with a vote on dates for summer school, which also passed. The meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m.
sightings
Editor’s Note: This is Sightings, rather than Seth’s Sightings, because I’m doing some channeling and interpreting for Seth. Rest assured, he is contributing ideas and improving, but not yet ready to return to full authorship. Hope you will accept some Ruth’s Ramblings mixed in!
Check out the history article on the D&L blog, on the Upper Upper Grand from White Haven to Stoddardsville. It tells a fascinating story about our area. You’ll find all the details at https://canals. org/2025/02/12/the-upperupper-grand/
The cold snap this week has been jarring. Rainy and damp weather over the weekend was bad enough, but it was downright cold on Monday and Tuesday nights.
Cold didn’t discourage us from starting our spring gardening, though. On Saturday we headed over to Detweiler Farms to see what
was ready. We came home with a hanging basket of pansies, and an herb garden in one planter. Both spent Monday and Tuesday in our bathroom to protect them, but they will be back outside by the end of the week.
We missed walking the dogs, but they weren’t enthusiastic about the return to winter temperatures either.
The deer don’t seem to mind. Yes, groups of deer are a herd, but the ones gathering between Weatherly and White Haven one early evening last week seemed almost like a flock, the way they were flitting around. They took off all at once, just the way a flock of birds will, moving in the same direction in a smooth pattern.
Speaking of birds with a pattern, several overflights of geese have been sighted, all going in the right direction.
The Lady Huskies did it! It’s been nine years, but the
UConn women are NCAA national champs again.
This time of year, forsythia and daffodils have that “only in nature” yellow color that is an instant mood brightener.
We arrived home at dusk one evening this week, opened the garage door, and came face-to-face with a medium-sized black cat. I don’t know who was more startled, the cat, our dogs, or us. The cat took off into the yard, and out at the opposite end. The dogs, who were on leash, pulled hard, but by the time they were unleashed, the cat was long gone.
Another Editor’s Note: This e-edition took me longer to put together than I expected. I think I’m back in the rythmn again, so expect another in about two weeks. To make sure you don’t miss it, follow the directions below to sign up from an email notification, if you haven’t already.
From the Statehouse Deadline approaching for 2025 PA House Scholarship
by State Rep. Jack Rader (R-Monroe)
High school seniors interested in receiving financial assistance to help pay for college still have time to apply for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives’ Scholarship. The deadline is May1.
Each year the program awards a four-year scholarship to two students preparing for postsecondary education. It is open to graduating high school seniors who are Pennsylvania residents with plans to attend a Pennsylvania college, university or career school as a full-time student.
To qualify, students must have attained a minimum
3.0 cumulative grade point average in high school. Other factors taken into consideration for the awards are a student’s commitment to community, leadership qualities, extracurricular activities and financial need. The scholarship program is administered through the Foundation for Enhancing Communities. More information and an application are available on the foundation’s website, www.tfec.org.
The scholarship is privately funded by individual and corporate donors; no tax or other public funds are used. Scholarships are awarded through an independent panel of judges chosen by the foundation.
Safe Monroe stands with SAAM – Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Safe Monroe, a leading advocate for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse, proudly joins the global community in recognizing April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year’s campaign from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) is “Together We Act, United We Change” which highlights the importance of working together to address and prevent sexual abuse, assault, and harassment.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the pervasive issue of sexual violence and the urgent need for action. This year, Safe Monroe pledges to amplify its mission of fostering a safe, and empowering environment for survivors while working to eradicate sexual violence from our communities.
On April 3, 5 p.m., the annual ‘Take Back The Night March’ will kick off from Courthouse Square in Stroudsburg, marching through Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg to end on ESU campus for a rally. This annual event has been happening in Monroe County for over 30 years, bringing awareness about sexual assault. We encourage anyone to join us.
#DenimDay is on Wednesday, April 30. Developed by Peace over Violence, the Denim Day campaign is observed worldwide by millions of people. As the longestrunning sexual violence prevention and education campaign, Denim Day asks people to wear jeans as a
visible way to highlight misconceptions surrounding sexual violence.
Lastly, mark your calendars and get your tickets for the 16th Annual Gala on April 25 at Stroudsmoor Ridgecrest. Join us for a night of hope, community and fun. By participating in this event, you not only align yourself with a cause that is making a real difference in the lives of survivors, but you also contribute to the creation of a safer and more compassionate community. Tickets available:https:// www.safemonroe.org/event/ gala2025/ During Sexual Assault Awareness Month and beyond, Safe Monroe reaffirms its unwavering commitment to survivors and its tireless pursuit of a world free from sexual violence. Join us in raising awareness, promoting prevention, and supporting survivors as we strive to build safer, more inclusive communities for all.
# # #
About Safe Monroe
Safe Monroe is a safe haven for anyone affected by domestic and sexual abuse regardless of sex, gender identity or age. Through free and confidential counseling, advocacy and shelter, we compassionately empower victims of abuse to become survivors – free from abuse and free to determine their own destiny. Through community outreach, education and training, we seek to raise awareness and prevent abuse because everyone deserves to be safe. For more information about Safe Monroe and its services, please visit SafeMonroe. org. To reach a crisis counselor you can call Safe Monroe’s 24-hour crisis hotline at 570-421-4200.
Conservation Camp offered this summer
Looking for something different and exciting to do this summer? Sign up for the Monroe County Conservation Camp, sponsored by Monroe County Conservation District and Monroe County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, open to all teens, ages 14 through this year’s high school graduate. Come spend a week at Stony Acres, a 119-acre Wildlife Sanctuary/ Recreational Facility owned by the students of East Stroudsburg University, and learn about the natural wonders that are living all around us.
The Monroe County Conservation Camp is a residential camp being held from Saturday, July 19, through Saturday, July 26. In its 50th year at Stony Acres, some of the campers’ favorite programs include stream and pond study, trapshooting and firearm safety, bird banding, archery, confidence/ropes course, and bass and fly fishing. But what really makes Conservation Camp unique is the two-day, overnight canoe trip on the Delaware River.
Supported by the Kettle Creek Environmental Fund, the camp program presenters include professionals from the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Tobyhanna Conservation Association, Blue Ridge/Cherry Valley Rod and Gun Club, National Park Service, Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry, and Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Center. The campers are provided with many programs to teach them about wildlife and natural resource conservation/ management.
Cost is $200, which includes the $75 application fee and the $125 camp fee. The application fee must be paid by the student and included with the application. The camp fee may be paid by the student, a sponsoring organization, or by a scholarship. A limited number of scholarships are available by request. For application forms and more information, contact the Monroe County Conservation District at 570-629-3061, visit www.mcconservation. org or email dlederer@ monroecountypa.gov.
Pocono Raceway to host ‘The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VISITPA.COM’
Pennsylvania tourism sponsors NASCAR race at Tricky Triangle in 2025
The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau (PMVB) is proud to announce that NASCAR weekend at Pocono Raceway will once again highlight the strength of the tourism industry in the Poconos and across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. For the second year in a row, Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has partnered with the Tricky Triangle, continuing the Commonwealth’s commitment to driving tourism, which is the biggest industry in the Poconos.
“The Pocono Mountains recognizes the value of tourism; it is baked into our DNA,” said PMVB President/CEO Chris Barrett. “For generations, Pocono Raceway has welcomed race fans from far and wide to the track for a festival-like atmosphere and an experience unlike any other. We are grateful for the leadership at Pocono Raceway that continues to build partnerships nationally and throughout Pennsylvania in order to tout tourism’s positive impact on the region.”
Hurley named to Women’s Bball Academic
Kutztown University women’s basketball placed Bella Arcuri, Abbey Hearn, Leila Hurley and Shannon Remolde on the 2024-25 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team.
The CSC Academic AllDistrict Team recognizes the nation’s top studentathletes for their combined performances on the court and in the classroom. Eligibility for the honor requires student-athletes to be at least a sophomore and have a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher. Graduate students must have a 3.50 GPA or higher in both their
All-District Team
undergraduate and graduate studies. Athletically, studentathletes must have competed in 90% of their team’s games or started 66% of their team’s games during the current season.
Hurley, a junior from Jim Thorpe, took another step forward on her way to AllPSAC East Second Team honors. The guard averaged a career-best 10.7 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in 31 appearances (29 starts). She knocked down a career-high 69 3-pointers, which ranks eighth in a single-season in program history. Hurley is majoring in elementary education and has a 3.85 GPA.
The Great American Getaway 400 presented by VISITPA.COM will stream live on Amazon Prime Video Sunday, June 22. The race will be broadcast in 195 countries and in more than 29 languages. A recent study conducted by Tourism Economics found in 2023, nearly 197 million visitors spent $47.9 billion across Pennsylvania. The Pocono Mountains accounts for 10% of that spending and ranks fourth behind major metropolitan areas such as Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Harrisburg/Lancaster.
Pocono Raceway contributes significantly to the Pocono Mountains as an economic driver. One NASCAR
Cup Series race is estimated to infuse local economies with $75 - $100 million yearly. Pocono Raceway attracts fans from every county in Pennsylvania, 50 states and nearly 20. Motorsports is vastly different than other sporting events, including the NFL, NBA, MLB & NHL teams which tend to draw more localized audiences. 60% of Pocono Raceway attendees are from out-of-state bringing in new dollars to Pennsylvania.
“Both the Pocono Raceway team and the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau are incredibly supportive of our office and consistently enhance the visitor experience in the Pocono
area. They are invaluable partners to us year-round, and we love working with them to showcase NASCAR in Pennsylvania,” said Courtney Custer, Strategic Partnerships Manager for Visit PA.
“World-class events in Pennsylvania, including those at the Pocono Raceway, spur incredible amounts of economic impact across the Commonwealth. Visitors stay overnight, support local businesses, explore beyond the venue, and help serve as word-ofmouth ambassadors when they return home,” added Kaitie Burger, Executive Director for Visit PA.
Fire Companies, EMS Agencies in Carbon County Awarded State Grants
Fire companies and EMS agencies throughout Carbon County were awarded state grants totaling more than $380,000 to assist with their important mission to protect public safety, according to Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-122) and Sen. Dave Argall (R-29). A total of 26 first responder agencies in Carbon County received funding.
“This funding is crucial for our local fire and EMS companies,” said Heffley.
“My district offices are always ready to help them ensure their paperwork is filed on time. It’s incredibly rewarding to see
grant dollars directed to Carbon County, especially to those who are first on the scene in emergencies.”
“I’m thankful so many local fire and EMS companies were awarded these highly competitive funds,” said Argall. “These grants are well-deserved and will help our brave first responders with their critically important and dangerous jobs.”
This funding was awarded through the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, as created by the General Assembly. Funds can be used to upgrade facilities, purchase new
equipment, reduce debt, train members, recruit and retain first responders, and more.
The organizations that were awarded funding include:
