The Anthracite Post
Promoting Local Small Businesses & Events at an Affordable Price In -
Schuylkill County – A local family is working to open a military museum focused on preserving equipment and history while supporting veterans in the region.
TOWNSHIP
Brothers Matthew Larsen and Jason Larsen, along with their father Jason Larsen, are establishing the Eastern Pennsylvania Museum of Military Equipment And History. The museum will be a nonprofit organization located in Schuylkill County. It will feature several floors, with each floor focusing on a different period of military history. Proceeds from the museum will go toward supporting veterans, and the family hopes to eventually develop housing for veterans as part of their long-term mission.
Matthew Larsen works in the construction industry and is involved with military equipment. His brother Jason has experience working with military museums in Texas and works on Military equipment and manufacturing firearms. Their father runs multiple businesses in the county and
is helping oversee the development of the project. All three live in Schuylkill County.
The museum currently has about ten military vehicles, and additional pieces are expected to be added through loans and donations. Private collectors have expressed interest in contributing vehicles, and the family is working with government agencies to acquire more items. They are still making upgrades to the building and are waiting on approvals and deliveries of remaining pieces. Their goal is to be open to the public by Spring of 2026.
One of the most notable pieces in the collec tion is a M551 Sheridan, a light armored reconnaissance tank. The tank was designed to move quickly and can reach speeds of approximately forty-five miles per hour. It weighs more than thirty-four thousand pounds and was capable of firing both guided missiles and traditional projectiles. The tank was originally brought to Hazleton (continued on page 4)
To submit an article/event/ad/photo to “The Anthracite Post” please contact theanthracitepost@gmail.com
Lee Ann Davidovich
Editor/Sales (570) 582-0981 theanthracitepost@gmail.com
Shari Roberts
Editor/Graphic Artist (570) 401-1798
shari@anthracitepost.com
Senator David Argall
Contributing Writer
Community Information
Frank Balon
Contributing Writer
Various Articles
Joan Banyas
Contributing Writer
Penn State Ext. Master Gardener
Joseph R. Barna
Contributing Writer
Veterans Journal
Jeff and Desiree Bonomo
Contributing Writers
Wine Hops & Road Stops
Kimberly Eisenhower
Contributing Writer
Psychic
Lisa Makara
Contributing Writer
Various Articles
Ron Marchetti
Contributing Writer
Sports Trivia Treats
Trooper Anthony Petroski III
Contributing Writer
Community Information
Walt Shubilla
Contributing Writer
Various Articles
Rev. Phil Smith
Contributing Writer
Various Articles
Jamie Walsh, State Representative
Contributing Writer
Community Information
Dane Watro, State Representative
Contributing Writer
Community Information
The Anthracite Post
Highlighting Neighborhood News & Events
Letter from the Editors
Hello All! Is it hot enough for you? It is Saturday and I had to work at the nursing home and now I am glad to be in my air conditioned office away from the heat and humidity. We sure are having our share of 90° days this summer.
If you know me, you know I like Halloween. Last year, some friends and I planned a sold out Witches Ball fundraiser and I am excited to say, we are doing it again. Our plan is to make a donation to a different charity each year and have a great time doing it!!!!! This year, the Witches Ball will benefit The John C. Kistler Scholarship Fund on Saturday, October 25th at Four Blooms in Drums. Stay tuned for info. Tickets sold out fast last year.
I am going to have more exciting news to share in a month or two, but I want to hold off until it is finalized.
I hope you are all enjoying your summer. I’d like to get out camping but haven’t had time to book anything. With my luck, I will be winter camping again - not that that’s a bad thing.
As always, if you have any ideas, stories, recipes, photos, etc., that you would like to submit for “The Anthracite Post”, send us an email, text or give us a call.
Lee Ann & Shari
WRITTEN BY SHARI
370 Maplewood Drive, Suite 105, Hazle Twp., PA 18202 (Humboldt) Mailing address: PO Box 7, Drums, PA 18222 570-582-0981 • (570) 401-1798 • TheAnthracitePost@gmail.com
July 2025
BIZARRE & UNIQUE HOLIDAYS
1 Creative Ice Cream Flavors Day
International Chicken Wing Day
2 Made in America Day
World UFO Day
3 Dog Days of Summer begins
Stay out of the Sun Day
4 Independence Day
5 International Bikini Day
Work-a-holics Day
6 International Kissing Day
National Fried Chicken Day
7 National Strawberry Sundae Day
8 Cow Appreciation Day
Video Games Day
9 Fashion Day
National Sugar Cookie Day
10 Pina Colada Day
11 Cheer up the Lonely Day
National Motorcycle Day
12 Pecan Pie Day
13 National French Fries Day
14 National Mac and Cheese Day
National Nude Day
15 Be a Dork Day
Gummi Worm Day
16 National Hot Dog Day
17 Peach Ice Cream Day
18 National Tropical Fruit Day
19 National Daiquiri Day
20 National Lollipop Day
Ugly Truck Day – It’s a guy thing.
FULL SERVICE PRINTING
Email: shari@knighttimemedia.com 370 Maplewood Drive, Suite 105, Hazle Twp., PA 18202 You Think It ... We Ink It!
21 National Junk Food Day
22 Hammock Day
23 National Sprinkle Day
Picnic Table Day
24 Amelia Earhart Day
National Tequila Day
25 National Carousel Day
National Chili Dog Day
26 Aunt and Uncle Day
27 National Love is Kind Day
Parent’s Day
28 Buffalo Soldiers Day
National Milk Chocolate Day
National Waterpark Day
29 Lasagna Day
30 Father-in-Law Day
National Cheesecake Day
Paperback Book Day
31 International Lifeguard
Appreciation Day
Mutt’s Day
National Avocado Day
Past
District Governor 7410 Receives Ballard Society Award
Tim Genetti, was recently presented The Ballard Award-Hazleton Rotary at his induction as Rotary District 7410 Governor.
The Ballard Society was started in 2010 and named after the late Jim Ballard. Past President Jim and his wife Nancy were long time supporters of Hazleton Rotary. In 2010, the Ballard Angels, Jim and Nancy, made a $25,000 contribution to the Hazleton Rotary Foundation to provide monetary funds for Rotary International water projects. Since then, The Hazleton Rotary Club, through the financial support of the Ballard Society, has helped build eight water projects throughout the world.
As a way of showing our club’s appreciation, the Hazleton Rotary Foundation started the Ballard Society. To become a member one can either make a bequest or contribution, of a specified amount, during a fiscal year to the foundation.
Contributions to the Hazleton Rotary Foundation Ballard Society for the benefit of the Foundation's support of The Rotary Foundation's international water projects, has also been a means to honor and recognize Individuals for their dedicated service and contribution to Hazleton Rotary, the Hazleton Rotary Foundation and our community.
After the formation of the Ballard Society, Rotarians Terry Jones, Paul Brenner and Gordon Bigelow were the inaugural inductees into the Society.
Subsequent inductees were Bill Genetti, Gene Acri, Pat Korb, Pat Ward, Ron Avellino, Gene Dougherty and Tim Genetti.
The funds for this newest award presentation were donated by Gordon and presented to Tim as a surprise addition to his Banner Exchange activities.
Presidents-Hazleton Rotary Gordon Bigelow (L) and Alan Whitaker (R), review the history of The Ballard Society Award with Rotary District 7410 Governor Tim Genetti(M).
Tank (continued)
in July 2000 as part of an agreement made during the term of Mayor Lou Barletta. The city accepted the tank, and ownership was officially transferred in October 2005.
Matthew Larsen explained that the family moves the vehicles themselves. A friend working at The Hazleton airport helped them connect with airport officials to secure the tank. The tank came from a government program and was previously on loan before ownership was transferred. The Military Museum of Texas has also assisted in acquiring and tracking of equipment, including an M45C Quad 50 Cal Anti Aircraft Mount and various other firearm mounts.
The Larsens believe this project will offer both educational value and community benefit. They are focused on preserving history, honoring those who served, and providing meaningful support to veterans.
Anyone interested in loaning or donating equipment to the museum can reach out to Matthew Larsen at matthewklarsen1@gmail.com.
Robert Rushalk, Air Force Veteran and Freeland resident attended the National Veterans Administration Creative Arts Festival held in Indianapolis, Indiana in May. Mr. Rushalk was invited to attend this prestigious National event along with other Veterans chosen from 125 VA's across the country. Last year, he entered into competition at the
We
scratch grains, feed corn and
Submitted By: Frank Balon
Wilkes-Barre VA with his entry "September" in the Interpretive Drama Performance Category. Rushalk finished first in his division at the Wilkes-Barre facility, making his entry eligible for national judging against dramatic entries from all the VA's in the country. His entry was selected for the National Gold Medal and earned Robert an invitation to the 2025 national festival in Indianapolis. The VA holds the National Festival each year in a different city and is funded entirely by corporate donations and the tireless work of American Legion Auxiliary Volunteers. Festival attendees include gold medal winning veterans from dozens of artistic categories including Performance, Art and Creative Writing. The Artists and Writers present and showcase their works in public displays during the festival week and the performance artists spend a week in rehearsals in preparation for a stage show and concert culminating and celebrating the week. As a dramatic performer, Robert performed with the Festival Chorus during the stage show.
The National Creative Arts Festival, at its core, is intended to provide Veterans with creative outlets in the various forms of therapeutic arts as part of a veteran's healing process.
Senator Dave Argall 29th District
Pennsylvania Senate
Toll Free Number: 877-327-4255 senatorargall.com/ facebook.com/SenatorArgall
PA’s First Rural Dental School Coming to Tamaqua
By State Sen. Dave Argall (R-Schuylkill/Carbon/Luzerne)
I chaired a public hearing of the Senate Majority Policy Committee in Tamaqua to review the severe dental care shortages in rural Pennsylvania and the devastating effects they have on our friends and neighbors. At the hearing, Sen. Lisa Baker, four local state representatives, and I listened to testimony connecting the lack of regular dental care to increasing rates of opioid abuse, heart disease, people missing work, and a whole host of other nasty issues. 37 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties are considered dental care shortage areas.
Jessica Brennan, a public health dental hygiene practitioner at St. Luke’s Primary Care and Dental in Tamaqua, shared her day-to-day experiences, noting that “we’ve had children with abscesses miss school because no one could see them. We’ve had elderly patients with broken teeth or dentures forced to give up meals they love or go on soft diets. These are not rare cases; they’re weekly occurrences. This is the reality of rural dentistry in Pennsylvania.”
I was shocked to hear that basic healthcare in too many Pennsylvania communities sounds more like 1825 than 2025. The future looks bleak unless we do something now. During the hearing, the Temple University School of Dentistry announced its plans to bring Pennsylvania’s first rural dental school to Tamaqua.
Dr. Amid Ismail, the dean of the Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University, discussed the model for the school, which is planned to open in September of 2026. Twenty students each year would complete their final two years of dental school at the Tamaqua clinic and would provide much-needed dental care to local patients.
I look forward to working with our partners to bring this idea to life – the sooner, the better.
Representative Jamie Walsh
117th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
717-260-6474
RepWalsh.com / Facebook.com/RepJamieWalsh
Update for Sportsmen: Antlerless Deer Licenses on Sale Now
By State Rep. Jamie Walsh (R-Luzerne)
Hunting in Pennsylvania is a deeply rooted tradition, and Luzerne County offers some of the best sportsmanship opportunities in the state. The county's diverse landscapes, including state parks and game lands, provide ideal habitats for various species, making it a prime destination for hunters.
Antlerless deer licenses are essential for managing the Commonwealth’s robust deer population. They also ensure a balanced ecosystem for native wildlife by preventing the overgrazing of healthy forests and fields. For the 2025-26 season, a record number of over 1.31 million antlerless deer tags are available.
General hunting and trapping licenses for the 2025-26 season went on sale on June 26. Single-use antlerless licenses are on sale for all wildlife management units (WMU) and are guaranteed to PA residents in all WMUs through Sunday, July 13.
Starting Monday, July 14, nonresidents will have the opportunity to purchase unsold antlerless licenses on a first-come, first-served basis. Two weeks later, on Monday, July 28, sales of unsold antlerless licenses are open to both residents and nonresidents on a first-come, first-served basis. Hunters are eligible to hold up to six antlerless licenses total, except in WMUs 5C and 5D in the southeastern part of the state, which allow for up to nine more antlerless licenses per hunter – totaling no more than 15 antlerless licenses.
Antlerless deer licenses are available for purchase in person at license issuing agents, but they can also be purchased online at huntfish.pa.gov.
Permits for the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) will be available starting Monday, Aug. 11. DMAP is designed to help landowners manage deer populations on their property. By enrolling in DMAP, landowners can receive permits that allow hunters to harvest antlerless deer on their land, which helps control the deer population and mitigate damage to crops and forests. More information about DMAP is available at pa.gov.
Best of luck, hunters, for a safe and successful season! Visit pgc.pa.gov for more information about hunting in the Commonwealth.
Trooper
Anthony Petroski III
Public Information Officer
Community
Service Officer
Pennsylvania State Police
Troop N - Hazleton
Summer is in full swing and the Pennsylvania State Police - Troop N would like to remind the public to drive safe, allow extra time to travel, and obey all laws of the Commonwealth.
With more vehicles traveling on the road, Trooper’s will be vigilantly patrolling for all traffic violations to ensure safe travel for everyone. When approaching an emergency vehicle on the side of the road, remember to always move over to the adjacent lane and slow down. This is a state law and referred to as the “Steer Clear” Law.
When driving, maintain eyes on the road and avoid distractions –including cell phones, since in Pennsylvania it is illegal to be holding your cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.
Texting while driving is illegal and a distraction. Please pull over and put your vehicle in park if you need to utilize the phone. Remember – It Can Wait!
From all of Troop N, have a great and Safe Summer!
PA House Approves Watro’s Cursive Bill
By State Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill)
As some of you already know, I have sponsored legislation in the state House of Representatives that would require cursive handwriting instruction in Pennsylvania schools.
The bill is moving through the legislative process, and I’m happy to report my bill, House Bill 17, has been approved by the full House of Representatives and is now awaiting consideration by the state Senate.
In our digital world, cursive has fallen by the wayside, but there are many reasons for students to get a basic grasp on cursive writing. I’ve heard education experts explain that writing in cursive stimulates areas of the brain linked to memory, language and thinking. Other studies have illustrated how it can support fine motor development, strengthen hand-eye coordination and improve dexterity.
Don’t forget that many of our important historical documents – such as the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution – are written in cursive. Having the skills to write and read cursive preserves our ability to access and comprehend these important sources of our shared history, something that is vital for an informed, engaged citizenry.
Cursive also plays a role in everyday life, such as signing a check or a legal document. It’s a skill that remains relevant in both professional and personal settings.
At least 24 states have laws requiring cursive instruction because those states understand cursive provides students another way to learn, express themselves and be better prepared for their future academic, professional and personal lives. I’ll keep working to add Pennsylvania to their number.
An Ice Cream Lover’s Dream Getaway!
July is National Ice Cream Month, and if you’re looking for a way to celebrate, or just sweeten your summer, you might want to check out this year’s Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail to help find the best cool treats of the season.
A partnership of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s PA Preferred® program, the state’s Tourism Office and the Center for Dairy Excellence, the eighth annual ice cream trail will take visitors all across Pennsylvania to more dairy destinations than ever.
Participants can accumulate points by visiting trail stops and making purchases. Points accumulated from May 30 to Sept. 7 earn prizes through the trail’s digital passport. Prizes include a commemorative metal tumbler for six stops, and for 10 stops, an entry into a grand prize drawing to win an overnight getaway to Lancaster County to experience “life on the farm.”
Travelers on the Ice Cream Trail can plan their adventures, learn about participating creameries and sign up for the free digital passport at visitpa.com/scooped.
July & August Entertainment at the Freeland Public Park Pavillion
July 11 St Ann's Band 6:30 p.m.
July 18 North of 40 Rock 6:30 p.m.
July 25 Danny Pope Folk ................................6 p.m.
Aug 1 Liberty Band .......................................6 p.m.
Aug 8 Dave Matsinko Vocalist Americana ...6 p,m.
Aug 15 Richard and Maria Lutz Vocal Duo 6 p.m.
Aug 22 Hazleton Philharmonic Big Band Dance ..............................6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Aug 29 Jack James Vocalist ...........................6 p.m.
Representative Dane Watro
116th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
570-453-1344
RepWatro.com / Facebook.com/RepWatro
July is National Park and Recreation Month
Every July for the past 40 years has been designated as National Park and Recreation Month to promote the building of strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation, as well as recognize all those who maintain our parks and recreational areas.
Our parks connect us with nature, provide a place of calm, a place for exercise and a place to explore and spark our imagination.
Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation opportunities are many, with mountains, rivers, lakes and millions of acres of forests and fields serving as the settings for just about every recreational pursuit. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Bureau of State Parks manages 124 state parks with more than 300,000 acres for popular outdoor recreation activities and more.
You can find out more about all those state parks on the department’s “Find a State Park” webpage at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/whereto-go/state-parks/find-a-park.
Whether it’s camping, hiking, biking, fishing or other water activities this summer, enjoy all that Pennsylvania’s outdoors has to offer.
Scam Alert: Traffic Tickets
The Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts (AOPC) is advising the public to stay vigilant against a reported text message scam involving the Pennsylvania court system.
The scam text messages claim “records show that as of today, there is an outstanding traffic ticket” which must be paid via a scam URL. The text goes on to outline fictitious actions and penalties that will be taken if the ticket is not paid including license and vehicle suspension, criminal prosecution and negative impacts to personal credit scores.
The AOPC will never place calls or send text messages to anyone soliciting payment by credit card, gift card or any other means of electronic funds transfer for any reason.
If you receive this text, contact state and/or local police as well as the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Bureau of Consumer Protection at 800-441-2555 or scams@attorneygeneral.gov.
4th Annual Pardeesville Cruise Night 2025 Saturday, August 16th
Rain Date Sunday, August 17th et) forRollingCruise
Backyard Beginnings, Bold Flavors:
The Story of Burger’s Brand Meats
Tucked away in Drums, Pennsylvania, Burger’s Brand Meats is a family-owned butcher shop where quality, tradition, and flavor come first.
Founded by Glen Burger in 1997, this small but mighty operation began in the backyard of the family’s home and he and his son Alex continue to craft its specialty meats right on-site to this day.
Known for their homemade smoked and dry-cured products, Burger’s Brand Meats has built a loyal following with customer favorites like beef jerky, beef sticks, smoked kielbasa, soppressata, dried sausages, hot dogs, smoked cheeses, and their signature smoked slab bacon. What sets them apart? Every
batch is made using their own recipes and hand-mixed spices, no shortcuts, no mass production.
Their retail shop is located next to Dave’s Gun Shop at 17 N. Beisels Road in Drums, it is always stocked with high-quality, handcrafted meats. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. AND ITS THE ONLY PLACE YOU CAN FIND their one-of-a-kind products.
If you are looking for authentic, homemade meats packed with flavor and tradition, make the trip to Burger’s Brand Meats. It's a taste of Pennsylvania you won’t find anywhere else.
Join the CSS Mission Team
We’re looking for caring, creative, and community-minded individuals to join our CSS Mission Team (formerly known as the Catholic Social Services Auxiliary). The name may be new, but the mission remains the same, to support the work of Catholic Social Services and help make a difference in the lives of our neighbors in need.
This is not just a women’s group, we welcome everyone who wants to serve with compassion and purpose! Most of our meetings are held via Zoom, making it easy to stay involved no mattter how busy your schedule may be.
Currently, the team helps organize two main fundraisers: Racing top Raffles A Night Under the Stars
We would love to grow the team with fresh ideas and new energy. Whether you’re a planner, volunteer, or just want to support a good cause, we’d be thrilled to have you.
If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved, please contact Danielle Matarella @ 570-4551521 or dmatarella@cssdioceseofscranton.org
Together, we can do so much more!
Freeland Scouts Navigating the Delaware River
The Scouting America Boys and Girls Troops of 473 recently spent two days navigating the Upper Delaware from Callicoon to Skinners Falls on Saturday, and from Skinners to Narrowsburg on Sunday. Overnight camping took place at a hunting cabin property near Equinunk. Saturday's run of Skinners Falls is a nice 100 yard long drop of whitewater.
Pictured are from left to right: Edward Yanec; Anthony Eichorst, Eagle Scout; Aiden O'Donnell; Brodie Houseknecht; Austin Barker; Alex Sterling; Erica Yanec (Girls troop Scoutmaster); Jayce Chicalese; Paige Barker; Erin McCracken; Ken Wenner; Karina Galicia; "Opa" Butch Gallagher; Ed Yanec (Boys Troop Scoutmaster); Caylee Sterling; Ethan Yanec, Eagle Scout; EMT James Darvell, Eagle Scout; Gary and Virginia Eichorst (Cub Scout Den Chief). All three scout units are sponsored by the Freeland American Legion Post 473. Meetings are held Tuesday evenings at 6:30 in the legion hall.
Tony’s Muscle Car Show held recently in Hazleton.
Crowds gathered under sunny skies at the Mt. Zion Lutheran Church Strawberry Festival, enjoying fellowship, fun—and plenty of sweet treats like the beloved strawberry shortcake sundae
Good Shepherd Church Annual Summer Festival in Drums.
A picture from the public hearing is attached. From left to right: State Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-122); State Sen. Dave Argall (R-29); State Rep. Jamie Barton (R-124); Evelyn Datte, District Coordinator, Office of Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09); Dr. Amid Ismail, Dean, Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University; State Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20); Dr. Michael Verber, CEO & President; Verber Dental Group; State Rep. JoAnne Stehr (R-107); State Rep. Tim Twardzik (R-123).
A Thousand Times a Day
Submitted by Kenny Wenner. If you have any information about people in this article, please call Ken at 570-401-4564 or email kenwennersr@gmail.com.
Stanley Balon Was a Supply Sargeant with Patton’s 3rd Army, 14th Division. They entered France from the Mediterranean at Marseille in early 1944 and pushed north along Italy and Switzerland. They were then called upon to aid the 101st under attack in the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium.
They fought thru the Seigfried Line into Germany and stopped just short of Czechoslovakia as the war ended. He was among the few victors to relax in a chair at Hitlers Eagle Mare and he did bring home German drinking steins from there. Stanley told the story, “ our column was held up going into this crossroads village. I was driving a supply truck, when soldiers began walking past us. I heard someone holler, hey stats, and looked over and its Jack Myers walking by. I asked what’s going on and Jack said the krauts have machine guns down at the crossroads so we’re going to take them out.” That was the last he saw Jack till they were both back home.
“Another time the column was stopped and these miserable looking GI’s were moving back to the front when
he recognizes a guy from Highland. He was a mess. Shoes, clothes, jacket were shot up and wore out. Stan says “come ere” and they climb in the back of the truck and he refit the soldier with new clothes, field jacket and extra socks to boot. Stan being a Sargeant didn’t get home before the private but that private wore that field jacket into Balons Bar and told Stan’s dad that they met and was grateful for the new gear. These are the stories of north siders meeting north siders in faraway places that prompted this project.
Cal Herring told me of a scouting mission his platoon went out on. They had traveled some 5 or 6 miles and didn’t see any Germans. So that night they found a farmhouse where they could get out of the cold weather and they bedded down. Early the next morning the earth shook. The Germans were counterattacking and shelling everything in their path. By daybreak the second floor was gone from the house and they were behind enemy lines. It took them two days to weasel their way back to American lines.
Lt. William Brogan never left the states but was a B-25 Mitchell bomber pilot and he “loved that plane”.
Phillip Voystok and Leroy Walton were mustered into the service, together, near wars end and went thru boot camp and sailed on a free all expense voyage to Le Havre France together. Leroy would be sent to Antwerp Belgium where he guarded German POWs. Both the city and the port were destroyed by the fighting.
Phil was assigned to the Graves Division. His job was to locate burials of
possible GI’s reported by various sources and exhume them. To do the job he was assigned a 45 cal pistol and 6 German POWs who actually did the digging. If GI’s were found another detail took over and removed the bodies. One day during a break Phil asked a POW his age, and finding he was 17, asked how long he was a soldier and the kid said two years. With that Phil asked him when he was home last and saw his mother. The lad replied two years. As it happened the kid grew up near their location and Phil told him to go see his mother but be back for when the truck would pick them up at the end of the day, or they both would be in trouble. The kid got home twice while they worked that area.
Joe Yelo was an easy going young man who approached the registration desk the day of his enlistment into the Army. The Sargeant asked Joe if he had any hobbies and good ol Joe said “yeh, I like to hunt”. At that the sarge said “we have a job for you”. Joe would invade
Sicily, fight up thru Italy, and then on to France, and Germany as a foot soldier. Frank Barringer was an Army artillery spotter in the south pacific. He fought in New Calendonia and thru the Marshal Island Group. He related a story of how a mule saved his life. The Jap forces had been pushed back and the four artillery pieces in his unit were to be moved up closer to the enemy. Because of the mountainous terrain they used mules to move the pieces as vehicles just couldn’t get the job done. Frank couldn’t get his mule to move. Meanwhile, leaving Frank’s piece behind, the other units moved up to the next ridge. That night the Japs counter attacked and overran the forward position. Frank’s battery held the line until forces regrouped and Frank didn’t die. Thanks to a mule.
Sports Trivia Treats
By Ron Marchetti
THE ODD COUPLE AT SHEA STADIUM
In early June of 1967 a scene from the movie, ‘The Odd Couple’ was filmed before a 5 -2 Mets win over the Pittsburgh Pirates at Shea Stadium in New York. In the scene, sports writer ‘Oscar Madison’ played by ‘Walter Matthau’ was called away from the press box by a phone call from ‘Felix zinger’ portrayed by ‘Jack Lemmon’ while on the phone Madison missed the Mets pull off a game ending triple play with Bill Mazerosky at the plate. The producers really wanted ‘Roberto Clemente’ to be the batter instead of Mazerosky, but Clemente refused to hit into even a fictional triple play and Roberto was very offended in the $100 offered for the role.
WORST CALL EVER BY A MAJOR LEAGUE UMPIRE
It happened July 2010 at the Comerica Park in Detroit. An umpire‘s terrible decision cost Tiger’s pitcher ‘Armando Galarraga’ a perfect game as his team downed to Cleveland 3 - 0. Galarraga retired the first 26 batters before Jason Donald grounded the first baseman Miguel Cabrera, who through to Galarraga covering the bag. The pitcher clearly stepped on first base before Donald, but umpire Jim Joyce blew the call by calling the runner safe. It wasn’t even close. The replay proved without a doubt that the runner was definitely out. There were no official replays or decision reversals in 2010. The next batter grounded out to end the game. Armando Galarraga was robbed of a ‘Perfect Game’. He only struck out three batters and he only had to throw 88 pitches. He completed his career in 2012 with a 26-35 record and a 4.08 ERA.
WHO IS THE ONLY AMERICAN LEAGUE SHORTSTOP TO HiT 3 HOMERUNS IN A GAME?
Ernie Banks of the Chicago Cubs did it one time in 1955 in the National League. You might be thinking, Jeter, Rypken or A-Rod. If you are, you are wrong. The only player to ever do it in the junior circuit only hit 5 home runs for the whole season when he hit 3 in one game. He was 5‘6“ and 145 pounds when he did it. He hit only 41 dingers in his entire career which consisted of 6,247 at bats. He played for the California Angels when he did it against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park in 1980. His name was ‘FREDDIE PATEK’. Thanks for reading. Till next time, be a good sport and ‘Stay loose’.
Hazleton Rotary Club to Host Annual Wine & Beer Festival
Hazleton, PA – July 14, 2025 – The Hazleton Rotary Club is proud to announce the return of its highly anticipated Wine & Beer Festival, set to take place on Saturday, August 23. from noon to 6 p.m. at Louis Schiavo City View Park (700 S. Poplar St., Hazleton).
This year’s event promises a fun-filled day of live music, local flavor, and community celebration. Festivalgoers will enjoy unlimited tastings from local wineries and breweries, along with a variety of food vendors, craft stands, baskets of cheer, tricky trays, and other attractions.
Headlining this year’s entertainment are two of the region’s most popular bands:
· Ostrich Hat – Known for their energetic covers of pop, rock, and alternative hits.
· Boots & Bangs – A powerhouse country band delivering today’s hottest country tracks and timeless classics.
Special thanks to our current sponsors:
Festival sponsor, Wells Fargo Advisors (Alan Whitaker and Neal DeAngelo III); Memorial sponsors: Ron Avelino and Gene Dougherty; Grapes & Hops sponsors: The Beer Stop, Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton, G-Force Parking Lot Striping, M&T Bank, Luzerne Foundation and Northpoint; Pour Me a Glass sponsors: DermDox Group, OneGroup, Hayden Power Group, Visit Luzerne County and Van Hoekelen Greenhouses; Designated Driver sponsor: The Hazleton YMCA.
“This event is one of our biggest fundraisers of the year, and it helps us support local causes and scholarships,” said Joan Buffington, president, Hazleton Rotary Club. “We’re thrilled to bring the community together once again for great music, great drinks, and a great cause.” Tickets
· Advance Tickets: $20 (valid ID required)
· At the Gate: $25
· Designated Driver Tickets and Under 21: $5 (only available at the gate)
Tickets are available online at hazletonrotary.ticketleap.com, or in person from Rotary members and select local businesses. Sponsorship opportunities
· Festival Sponsor – $2,500
· Grapes and Hops - $1,000
· Pour Me a Glass - $500
· Designated Driver - $250
All proceeds benefit the Hazleton Rotary Club’s community service projects, scholarships, and charitable initiatives across Greater Hazleton.
For more information, visit HazletonRotary.org, Hazleton Rotary FB page, or contact Lisa Marie Halecky at HazletonRotaryLMH22@yahoo.com.
About the Hazleton Rotary Club
The Hazleton Rotary Club is part of Rotary International, a global network of community volunteers dedicated to making positive change. Locally, the club supports a wide range of civic projects, youth scholarships, and nonprofit partnerships.
Hazleton Rotary Club Installs 105th
President
Front Row 1 L-R: Vice President Stephen Seach, lst Immediate Past President Alan Whitaker, President Joan Buffington, President Elect Paul Oswald and Treasurer Pat Owens. Row 2 L-R: Mark Ondishin, Neil DeAngelo III, Jace Whitaker, Sergeant-at-Arms Pat Ward, Nina Bonus, Anna Gharghoury, Danielle Matarella and Secretary Lani Drobnock. Not available for Photo: Joe Cammisa and Rossanna Gabriel .
The Presidents’ Party, held at the Valley Country Club welcomed Joan Buffington as the 105th President of Hazleton Rotary and thanked Alan Whitaker who served as 2024-2025 President.
Alan was the first Hazleton Rotarian to serve two terms as President, the first being 2019-2020.
President-Elect Paul Oswald called the meeting to order followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by President Joan and the invocation offered by Pat Ward, Past President who also provided the Welcome and Introductions.
He asked those present to remember Past Presidents Eugene Dougherty and Martin Cohn and member Pastor Tom Cvammen, who passed away in the 104th Rotary Year.
The following Past Presidents, in attendance, were also introduced: Lew Dryfoos, Katrina Lennartz, Paul Malone, Lisa Marie Halecky, Pat Ward, Donna Dougherty, Kathie Oh and Michele Kushmeder.
Alan Whitaker remarked on his presidency and thanked the membership and the Board of Directors and Officers for collaborating with him to keep Hazleton Rotary moving along in achieving its goals in 2024-25.
He recognized Pat Korb for her
continuous efforts with club publicity, Lani Drobnock for the Newsletter, the Wine and Beer Festival Committee and everyone who helped the club in any way to have another successful year.
He also presented a Paul Harris Fellowship to Linda Grego who donated a tremendous amount of time to the Hazleton Rotary Club as a non-member.
“Linda is not officially a Rotarian, but she might as well be, as she stepped forward many times to help me and the club during the course of my year as President. Rotary and I are very grateful for all her efforts.”
2025-26 Board Officers and new President Joan Buffington were installed by Rotarian Donna Dougherty and her Mother, Ethel Dougherty in memory of Past President Gene Dougherty.
Michelle & Tim Genetti, John Nilles of G-Force, Realtor Eugenio Sosa and Pecora Realty and Neal DeAngelo III were event sponsors
Buffington thanked the membership for their support and encouragement and vowed to do her best for the club and our community. She encouraged the group to enjoy laughter, hard work, encouragement and respect for each other.
A Veterans Journal #101
By Joseph Barna • Freeland USMC, Korea 1952-1953
Memorial Day Reflections
Flag Day was in June. The American flag is a symbol for what so many real Americans have fought and died for. Why else would they give up their life? Not for a divided country whose people hate each other. A flag tells you what a country is. In Korea there were 23 countries fighting for one country: South Korea. When North Korea invaded their country, South Korea lost over a million of its people. The 23 countries of the newly formed United Nations came to the aid of the Democratic South Korea. Some of the countries sent squads, some sent platoons, others sent companies or maybe a battalion. America sent full divisions of their Army and Marines.
I believe there are Americans today who do not have the right to say the American flag is their flag. They spit on it, stamp on it, and burn it. A true American will be wrapped in it if he or she is killed in service to it. What else is there that makes people say "I'm fighting for this, or I'm dying for that?" What I have personally seen were brothers dying for brothers. And for a love that we call "Old Glory."
I believe there are many in our country who hate it when someone says "I believe in God, America and my flag." It stands high in every battle that young people fight and die. In Korea, every country had their own flag, but were willing to sacrifice their boys for the flag of South Korea. There can be only one flag for a country. Ours distinctly has 13 stripes and 50 stars and it's red, white and blue. It appears on every military uniform and on every ship, plane, tank and vehicle. It gives our troops courage and hope. Look at the flag and try to feel what it stands for.
I came home with a South Korean flag. Korean people gave this to me. Today it still reminds me of those 24-hour battles the seemed to last for weeks. I remember the -30 degrees in winter and the 120 degrees in summer, the crying of the wounded and the silence of the dead. In Korea, memories were burned into my brain that will never go away.
I recently spoke with a Marine who fought alongside me 74 years ago. He learned of my experiences through a Korean War website, found my number and called me on the phone. We were in the same battles those many years ago.
We went to Korea on the same ship and returned on the same ship 13 months later. We returned with the same bodies, but changed. We never forgot each other. The Marine's name is Jim Barnett and he lives in Oregon. We have the same memories.
Earlier, I spoke of what happened to South Korea. How would Americans feel if what happened to the people of South Korea happened to them? Look at our flag and be glad this doesn't happen to us. I have seen love among Koreans. Where is that love among Americans? What do Americans want? As I said, North Koreans killed over a million South Koreans. They killed their animals, they destroyed their towns, farms and cities. Is this what some Americans want to happen here?
How can we ask a boy or girl entering our military to defend a flag of a country divided? It's America and who knows what other name.
Our flag is not a colored piece of cloth. It stands for so many young men who gave up their life for it. As you walk through a cemetery, stop and look at our flag in a flag holder. The flag holder will tell you which of our wars this veteran fought in. The stone will tell you the date he was born and the day he died. You will be surprised to see some of the ages won't be much more than 20 to 25 years old. This boy never got the chance to marry his sweetheart, hold a baby in his arms or eventually become a grandfather. When you watch veterans fold the flag and present it to a family member at a funeral, think of the story that each fold tells. These stories are about young men who are proud to be called American Veterans. Try to feel what the boy felt when a bullet entered his body or shell fragments tore through him. I don't believe many could look at someone when this happens. The best friend I ever had, died when 18 pieces of hot metal entered his body from an exploding shell. I wish I could have shared some of that pain. That boy became my guardian angel and I know he's watching over me. 74 years ago, he found me as I laid wounded and bleeding. He said "Corporal, God doesn't want you yet." I think he recently sent me an email saying "He still doesn't want you, you have more work to do." But someday, I hope I earned the right to be overed with an American flag.
CSS City Adventure Hunt
Catholic Social Services in Hazleton is excited to invite the community to participate in a "City Adventure Hunt" next month.
This event, which will take place from Aug. 13-25, will be a fun, community building event that aims to connect local businesses and organizations with residents in a unique and engaging way.
Participants will be invited to visit participating businesses and organizations to collect stamps on a special stamp card. They will earn points based on their level of engagement (for example: visiting, purchasing or donating). The more businesses a person visits, the more points they can earn, with the chance to win exciting cash prizes.
We currently have 30 businesses that have signed on to be a part of the "City Adventure Hunt" - but are looking for as many as would like to participate. To sign up and be part of this exciting event, contact Danielle Matarella at (570) 455-1521 or email DMatarella@csshazleton.org.
We will provide you with everything you need to get started, including your stamp cards and detailed instructions.
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