Submit Tunkhannock Twp. Conditional Use Hearing Comments

Contrary to the information in the most recent Journal of the Pocono Plateau, the board of supervisors did not continue the conditional use hearing for a warehouse in Tunkhannock Township. They will, however, consider proposed conditions during their work session scheduled for 9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 6. (See notice below from their website.)
The meeting can be accesses in person or via Zoom:
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Tunkhannock Township Board of Supervisors held a Conditional Use Hearing on Wednesday, March 23, 2022, to consider the application of Route 115 Associates, LLC for conditional use approval pursuant to Section 1208, et al. of the Tunkhannock Township Zoning Ordinance to use a portion of the premises on Rt 115, near the SR 903 and RT 115 intersection, for a warehouse.

The Board of Supervisors request that the members of the public submit conditions, based on the evidence presented at the hearing.

All suggested conditions can be submitted to the Township via email: tunksec@longpondpa.com by Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at 8:30 am.  Please put “Conditional Use Suggestions” in the subject of the email. 

Treasurer Garrity Announces Auction of Unclaimed Property

Online bidding to take place March 23 & 24
 
Harrisburg, PA — Treasurer Stacy Garrity today announced that the next auction of unclaimed property items from Treasury’s vault, including an 1882 $50 gold certificate, will take place online over two days: Wednesday, March 23 and Thursday, March 24.

“Our goal is always to return unclaimed property to the rightful owners,” Garrity said. “But even though we have the largest working vault in the United States, we need to have auctions periodically to make room for incoming items. Every piece of unclaimed property we receive is held for at least three years while we work to connect with the rightful owner. And all auction proceeds will remain available for the owner to claim – whether that happens next month or 50 years from now.”

Treasury partners with Pook & Pook, Inc., of Downingtown for appraisal and auctioneer services. Items in this week’s auctions are included in the March 23 coins and jewelry auction and the March 24 decorative arts auction. Auction items can be previewed at pookandpook.com.

Nearly 4,000 items from Treasury’s vault will be available at the two-day auction, some combined into lots of Treasury-only items. In addition to the 1882 gold certificate, items of interest include:
 
  • A Rolex Oyster watch with an 18-karat gold case and a stainless band;
  • An 18-karat gold chain link bracelet;
  • An 18 karat gold ram’s head bangle bracelet;
  • A one-ounce gold bar; and
  • South African Krugerrands.

Treasury receives unclaimed property in accordance with Pennsylvania’s unclaimed property law, which requires that abandoned or forgotten property be turned over to Treasury after three years of dormancy. Most of the tangible property held in Treasury’s vault comes from abandoned safe deposit boxes, with some also arriving from sources such as college dorms, nursing homes, and police evidence rooms. Other unclaimed property can include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, stocks, and insurance policies.

Treasury currently safeguards more than $4 billion in unclaimed property. It’s estimated that one in ten Pennsylvanians has money waiting, and the average value of a claim is $1,500.

Pook & Pook works closely with Treasury to track and document the sales of unclaimed property items to ensure proceeds are available when a claimant comes forward in the future. The upcoming auctions also include items from other consigners and sellers, and Treasury’s items are not separately identified in the auction catalogs. Treasury employees and immediate family members are prohibited from bidding.

For more information about Treasury’s unclaimed property program or to see if you have property waiting to be claimed, visit patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property.

I-80 bridge work eastbound starts Monday

Carbon County: Interstate 80 East Lane Restriction to Begin on Monday 

Allentown, PA - 

County:  Carbon
Municipality:  East Side Borough and White Haven Borough
Road name:  Interstate 80 East
Between:  Exit 273 (PA 940)  and Exit 274 (PA 534)
Type of work:  Bridge Repair
Work being done by:  PennDOT Contractor
Type of restriction:  24 Hours
Restriction:  There will be a 24-hour a day lane restriction in the eastbound direction for emergency bridge repair work. Please use caution when traveling through the work zone.
Start date:  3/14/22
Est completion date:  3/25/22
Restrictions in effect (time of day):  12:00 AM To 12:00 AM
Will rain cause delays?  No
Change/Update:


Subscribe to PennDOT news in Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton, and Schuylkill counties at www.penndot.gov/District5
Motorists can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1000 traffic cameras.
511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website.
Follow regional PennDOT information on Twitter at www.twitter.com/511PAAllentown.

TTRC objects to changing Long Pond into an industrial complex

Tunkhannock Township Supervisors made one small change via a zoning amendment but expect to see big results in the form of up to four 60’ tall warehouses and potentially a manufacturing facility on commercially (C2) zoned lands in Long Pond. Approximately 30 residents attended a Public Hearing on January 13, most toprotest the supervisors’ proposed ordinance amendment that will allow commercial buildings in the C2 zone tobe 60’ tall
rather than the current 35’ limit. The Supervisors also received 37 letters and emails from residents opposed tothe change.

Board Chairman Fran DePiano stated that the proposed change will make the area more attractive to commercial businesses. Two warehouse developers have provided sketch plans for four warehouses in the township, one just south of Routes 115 & 903, the other three warehouses are being proposed along Route115 opposite the Dixon Miller Recreation Area.

DePiano pointed out that the township has a lot of protected land that does not provide tax revenue. He said one warehouse would provide an estimated $50,000 in tax revenue yearly, and that Tunkhannock Township supervisors have not raised local taxes in years.

In November, the township’s Zoning Hearing Board unanimously denied the request from one of the warehouse developers for a height variance to enable them to build a 58’ warehouse. The minutes indicate the primary reason given for the increased height was to make the project more economically beneficial tothe developer.

In December, after the Zoning Hearing Board rejected the height variance, Township Supervisors Fran DePiano, George Ewald and Steve Malaico, overruled the Board’s recommendation and proposed an amendment to raise the C2 building height limit to 60’.

All residents who spoke at the Public Hearing were against the proposed height
change. Most were particularly worried about adding to the truck traffic on Routes 903 and 115, the township’s main thoroughfares. Residents of Brier Crest, located just off of the intersection, showed concern for the estimated 250 trucks per day, every day, 24 hours a day, from just one warehouse addition. Their onlyaccess point, directly on Route 903, has
already become more hazardous with the opening of the turnpike interchange, and additional trucks wouldonly add to their risk.

Another resident reminded the Supervisors that the Township’s Volunteer Fire Company does not have a ladder truck to handle emergencies at 60’ buildings. Others pointed out that they moved to the LongPond area for its beauty, wildlife and natural lands.

A woman who grew up in Long Pond and recently returned to raise her children urged the supervisors not to raise the height limit, a move that would attract warehouses and other businesses that are inconsistentwith the township’s rural nature.

Several residents pointed out a connection between the Routes 115 & 903 warehouse to Pocono Raceway, which is located down the road. The Township Supervisors stated that the project was not affiliated with the Raceway, however late in the meeting, Raceway CEO Nick Igdalsky spoke via Zoom, saying that the land being sold for the warehouse was owned by a shell corporation of the Raceway.

After listening to nearly 75 minutes of township residents’ urging them to not raise the height ceiling for C2 businesses, the supervisors closed the Public Hearing and unanimously voted to approve the ordinance, changing the permitted height in C2 zones to 60’. This will affect all C2-zoned land in Tunkhannock Township, of which Pocono Raceway owns more than 1,000 acres.

FOR MORE INFORMATION contact Tunkhannock Township Residents Committee by emailTTRC570@gmail.com; or call 570-243-1763.
 

VETERANS CORNER Commentary by John Kearns 

chiefkearns@gmail.com
HAPPY VETERANS DAY
Veterans Day, formerly known as Armistice Day, was initially set as a U.S. legal holiday to honor the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. In legislation passed in 1938, November 11 was “dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as Armistice Day.”
THOUGHTS FOR VETERANS WHO CANNOT ENJOY THEIR DAY:
As the nation's veterans celebrate their service, there are too many who cannot. In an era where our government will give big money to illegal families who break our laws while leaving our disabled and homeless abandoned is not acceptable.
Veterans took an oath to defend our nation to the death. It is time to reflect and investigate how we are all being misused and given false information. It’s time to awaken and stand for all Americans who can no longer stand and ask why an Army of migrants are cared for with tax dollars, while veterans lie helpless in the streets.
VETERANS WEEKEND EVENTS
The US Marine Corps Ball at the White Haven VFW Post 6615 on November 13 is a long-standing tradition. This Saturday, the 245th Birthday of the US Marine Corps will be celebrated. Rich in military tradition, highlights are the cake cutting; recognition of the oldest and youngest Marine present; and a guest speaker, followed by dinner and dancing. The event is open to all, tickets are required.
The Tavern on the Trail on Main Street in White Haven has live entertainment on Saturday and Sunday with prizes for Saturday's Patriotic Vehicle contest, and Sunday's Home-Made Baked Goods Contest (and sale). 50/50 raffles will benefit the White Haven Veterans Memorial Fund, and there is a prize drawing for everyone making a Toys for Tots toy donation.
 

White Haven Center Relatives & Friends and Other Friends

  A stakeholders meeting of White Haven Center families, staff, legislators, and community organizations and residents is being called for Sunday, November 14, 2021, at 3:00 p.m., at Saint Patrick’s Parish Hall in White Haven. 
It’s been a while since our last meeting and it felt necessary to continue discussion of strategy; fundraising; staffing shortage; morale, especially of residents and staff; legislation, etc. to prevent the closures of White Haven and Polk centers.  Invitation is extended to all concerned.  
Attorney York continues to be pro-active in his effort to bring our case to trial as evidenced by his initiative of filing a “Motion for Preliminary Injunction” to prevent forced transfers to community and other state facilities.  See attachment # 1 of page 1 & 2 of this “Preliminary Injunction” which will be a topic for discussion at the meeting on Sunday.
Ann Mack is working hard in her effort of fundraising with her most current called “Let’s Climb the Eiffel Tower Together.”  The prize will be a cash prize of $500.00; and if the funds raised exceed $10,000.00, the prize money will climb to $1,000.00.  Tickets are $20.00 apiece, or $50.00 for three, or $100.00 for seven.  Mail checks payable to “White Haven Center Legal Defense Fund.”  Mailing address is Ann Mack, 4 Genoa Lane, Shavertown, PA  18708-9606.  See attachment # 2 for fund-raising event at Bakery Delight in Plains Township on 10-30-2021.
It is only fair to note that the families and friends of Polk Center have also been working hard at fundraising and their contribution to the WHC Legal Defense Fund has been extremely complimentary.
It is important to understand that there is increased intensity by administration to move residents from White Haven and Polk centers to other locations at this time, and that may grow.  It is recommended to make scheduled meetings, but not to make any decisions or sign any papers while the litigation in federal court moves forward.  If it felt that pressure is being implemented for a forced move to another location, that action should be reported to Attorney York. 
In conclusion, it is noted once again that we sorrow over of the loss of our loved ones as the toll continues to rise, not only at White Haven Center, but also at Polk Center.  We must go on and remember in our hearts and minds the memory of those residents, family members, friends, and staff who have passed on since these terrible times have been initiated by Governor Wolf.
            https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MCZk5S1Ai4
            https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG0vH4WYChQ
Tom Kashatus, President                                                                                                                WHC Relatives & Friends                                                                                                570-736-6981
 

Suicide Awareness event this weekend at Eurana Park

The 2nd Annual Remembering Joshua Suicide Awareness Event will be Sat. Sept 4th & Sun. Sept 5th from Noon to 4pm at Eurana Park, 560 3rd Street in Weatherly. There are over 60 baskets/gift cards available in the chinese auction- including a remote car starter with install- courtesy of Northeast Light & Sound. There will be lunch and  baked goods available for purchase, a DJ and mental health resources. All proceeds benefit American Foundatiin for Suicide Prevention. In memory of Joshua Naegele, WAHS 2016 graduate and Wilkes U student who took his life in 2019.

Septemeber is Suicide Prevention Month.

Fly-in, Drive-in Breakfast Postponed

On Friday, the latest edition of the Journal of the Pocono Plateau came out with a half page ad for the Mount Pocono Rotary's Fly-In, Drive-In Breakfast on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend.
On Saturday morning, the Committee announced the difficult decision to postpone the Fly-In until Memorial Day Weekend Sunday, May 29, 2022. While disappointing, the Covid numbers are going in the wrong direction. Please support the Rotary and the Salvation Army, their designated beneficiary for this breakfast in other ways if you can.

Harmful algal blooms: Our own version of toxic ‘red tide’ 

From Brodhead Watershed Association

Florida summers are plagued by what is commonly called “red tide,” a dangerous concentration of microscopic algae, K.brevis. Toxic to fish, dangerous to swimmers and shellfish eaters, K.brevis can even cause serious breathing problems for beach-goers.
 
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) also happen here in Pennsylvania. Here, HABs are caused by a different organism — blue-green algae or cyanobacteria — but many of the health effects can be similar.
 
Not all algal blooms are bad for you! Stringy green algae, pond scum and aquatic plants like duckweed may be annoying, but not a health risk. The dangerous kind is very fine-textured and grows as a thin film, either just below or on the surface of slow-moving, warm water. People say it looks like paint, or fine streaks, or pea soup. It’s insidious, too, because HABs are temporary and even after a bloom clears, toxins can remain.
 
Protect yourself, family and pets: Don’t swim, fish, or boat in areas where you suspect a HAB. 
 
And check out this factsheet for information from the PA Department of Health: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/Documents/Environmental%20Health/HAB%20FS.pdf. See PALakes.org, too.
 
More on invasive plants can be found at brodheadwatershed.org/invasive-species-management-plan/

Honoring Our Heroes on Memorial Day

By State Rep. Jack Rader (R-Monroe)

Monday, May 31, is Memorial Day – a day set aside to honor the more than 1.1 million
Americans who have died in wars which the United States has fought over the last 245 years.
Please take a moment this weekend to remember these men and women who sacrificed
their lives for our nation and consider participating in Memorial Day events in your community.
Th ...read more

PennDOT Shares Draft Transportation Funding Study for Public Review, Comment

Virtual public meeting available until June 1

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is hosting an on-demand virtual public meeting and comment period for a Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) study exploring sustainable transportation funding options. The public meeting is accessible online at all hours of the day through June 1, 2021, at www.penndot.gov/funding.

The PEL study, in support of the PennDOT Pathways program, is being conducted to identify near- and long-term alternative funding solutions and establish a methodology for their evaluation.

In February, PennDOT announced candidate bridge projects being considered as a part of the Major Bridge Public-Private Partnership (P3) Initiative. This initiative, the first of the PennDOT Pathways Program, was formed in response to one of the early findings of the PEL study – that tolling of major bridges in need of replacement or rehabilitation is a potentially viable near-term funding solution. The draft PEL study report is currently available for review and comment and identifies additional medium- to long-term funding alternatives that could be considered for implementation.

PennDOT encourages the public to review the materials presented in the virtual meeting and to provide comments, which will be accepted throughout the duration of the meeting. Online comments can be submitted directly from the meeting website or via other comment submission methods, including:For more information about the PennDOT Pathways program, visit www.penndot.gov/funding.
The Transportation Revenue Options Commission (TROC), which was established by Governor Tom Wolf’s Executive Order on March 12, today received a briefing on the draft PEL study. When completed, the final PEL study will be provided to the TROC.
PennDOT will make all reasonable modifications to policies, programs, and documents to ensure that people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency have an equal opportunity to enjoy all of its programs, services, and activities. In accordance with Governor Tom Wolf's COVID-19 mitigation efforts, the Virtual Public Meeting will be held online only.

To request assistance to participate in the virtual public meeting or review the PEL study, please contact PennDOT's Communications Office by emailing dotcomm@pa.gov or calling 717-783-8800 from 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM. PennDOT will not place a surcharge on an individual with a disability or those with limited English proficiency to cover the costs of providing auxiliary aids/services or reasonable modifications of policy. If you have other questions or challenges, please contact PennDOT's Bureau of Equal Opportunity to request help by emailing RA-penndoteoreports@pa.gov or calling 1-800-468-4201; TTY (711).
Subscribe to statewide PennDOT news and traffic alerts at www.penndot.gov/news or choose a region under “Regional Offices.” Information about the state’s infrastructure and results the department is delivering for Pennsylvanians can be found at www.penndot.gov/results. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov.

Follow PennDOT on Twitter at www.twitter.com/PennDOTNews and like the department on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaDepartmentofTransportation and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pennsylvaniadot/
 

New Law Updates CDL Requirements for PA Veterans, Service Members

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) announced today that a new Pennsylvania law waives the requirement for Pennsylvania residents who are current and former military members and who operated a commercial vehicle as part of their duties, to take a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Knowledge Test when applying for a CDL. Previous legislation – Act 133 of 2008 – established a waiver of the CDL skills test for these individuals.
“We are pleased to announce this important change and hope that it helps military members in their transition to civilian life find good-paying, sustainable employment to begin their new lives,” said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian.

Act 131 of 2020 allows the PennDOT to waive the CDL Knowledge Test for Pennsylvania residents on active or reserve military duty or recently honorably discharged veterans, provided those service members have at least two years of experience operating a commercial motor vehicle as part of their military job requirements.
The waiver applies to CDL applicants who wish to operate vehicles similar to those they operated in the military. For example, those who drove combination type commercial (Class A) motor vehicles in the military will be eligible in Pennsylvania for a waiver to drive a combination type vehicle and those who drove a single motor vehicle of commercial type (Class B) in the military will be eligible in Pennsylvania for the waiver to drive that type of vehicle. Applicants must complete form DL-398, “Application for Military CDL Test Waiver,” to request the waiver.

Doubles, triples and school bus endorsements cannot be waived under this program. PennDOT will waive the knowledge test specified, subject to the limitations in the 49 Code of Federal Regulation Section 383.77, to an applicant who meets all the requirements for a waiver.

“Service members gain many valuable skills in the military that translate well into the civilian job sector,” said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvania’s acting adjutant general and acting head of the DMVA. “This program is a huge opportunity to assist our veterans and service members with these skills to get good jobs as Pennsylvania is critically short in CDL drivers.”

Military personnel and veterans interested in taking advantage of the CDL skills and knowledge test waivers can find further information by visitingwww.dmv.pa.gov, click on Driver Services and choose Military Personnel Veterans from the dropdown. Form DL-398 can be found under Forms and Publications on the homepage.
 

WASD Virtual Holiday Concert

Click to hear some terrific performances by students, grades 5 through 12, in the Weatherly Area School District music program.
Weatherly virtual winter concert

Helping Veterans and Active Duty Military Cope With Social Isolation

(StatePoint) As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of veterans and active duty military personnel are on lockdown, many suffering from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or substance abuse. With the additional challenge of social isolation, finding ways to combat depression, anxiety and loneliness is critical.

That is why Help Heal Veterans (Heal Vets), a nonprofit founded during the Vietnam War, has gone into overdrive, shipping more than 90,000 free craft kits since the beginning of the pandemic and creating a newly designed kit to help veterans make the masks they need to stay healthy and safe.

Operating on the principle that not all medicine comes in a bottle, Heal Vets distributes kits in craft categories like masks, leatherwork, models, woodwork, jewelry, paint-by-numbers, needlecrafts, poster art, scrapbooks and more. Crafting can provide therapeutic and rehabilitative benefits, including improving fine motor skills, cognitive functioning, memory and dexterity, and can help alleviate feelings of anger and the severity of negative behaviors triggered by PTSD and TBIs.

With demands flooding in due to the COVID-19 pandemic, kits have been distributed to more than 90 Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers around the country and a large number of military bases, state veteran homes and other locations where the need is great.

“The coronavirus is overwhelming, but being alone in a pandemic crisis can be terrifying and deeply debilitating,” says Joe McClain, retired Navy captain and Help Heal Veterans CEO. “Our goal is to give our veterans what they need to heal during this time of enforced isolation.”

In a recent survey of vets, 94 percent of those polled who use Heal Vets craft kits said the kits helped them have a more positive outlook on life, and 98 percent said the kits took their mind off problems.

With many of the nation’s veterans labeled high-risk now in lockdown with little contact from others, (no visitors, no family allowed, no volunteers and limited staff interaction), it is particularly important to address suicide prevention, according to McClain.

“We’re working closely with the VA Suicide Program to start including VA-produced suicide prevention awareness and education material with our kits,” he says. “Our concern is that during this time of increased stress from isolation and financial uncertainty, some veterans may be at higher risk of taking their own life. We are hoping to raise awareness and improve access to craft therapy kits to help mitigate that risk.”

To learn more about Heal Vets and the organization’s COVID-19 efforts, as well as find out how you can help, visit HealVets.org.

Anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges can be exacerbated during this quarantine period. Luckily, there are tangible ways to support isolated and sick veterans in their most significant time of need.
 

PennDOT Extends Expiration Dates on Driver Licenses, ID Cards, and Learner’s Permits

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced today that expiration dates for driver licenses, identification cards, and learner’s permits, will be extended for Pennsylvania residents in response to statewide COVID-19 mitigation efforts.
Effective April 30, 2020, expiration dates for driver licenses, photo ID cards and learner's permits scheduled to expire from March 16, 2020 through May 31, 2020, are now extended through June 30, 2020.
These extensions are in addition to those announced on March 27.
Additionally, all Driver License Centers and Photo License Centers and the Harrisburg Riverfront Office Center in Pennsylvania are closed until further notice effective close of business on Monday, March 16
As a reminder, customers may complete various transactions and access multiple resources via the Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.pa.gov. Driver and vehicle online services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and include driver's license, photo ID and vehicle registration renewals; driver-history services; changes of address; driver license and vehicle registration restoration letters; ability to pay driver license or vehicle insurance restoration fee; driver license and photo ID duplicates; and driver exam scheduling. There are no additional fees for using online services.
More COVID-19 information is available at www.health.pa.gov. For more information, visit www.dmv.pa.gov or www.PennDOT.gov.

 
White haven ambulance

Amid Coronavirus Uncertainty, Resources Extended to Older Pennsylvanians

Senator Lisa Baker is reminding older Pennsylvanians and their caretakers that a number of steps have been taken this week to protect seniors during statewide efforts to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging recently issued guidance to help older adult day centers, adult protective services, and senior centers continue to meet the needs of older ad ...read more

National Museum of Industrial History Launches ‘Virtual Museum’ with Live Programming, Lectures, and More

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – With individuals and families across the nation practicing social distancing and self-quarantine, the National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH) is taking its mission of educating the public about America’s industrial past and inspiring the visionaries of tomorrow online.

The museum is launching a series of live online lectures and presentations, featuring staff fr ...read more

Appeals Process Created for Business Impacted by Wolf Shutdown; Businesses Affected by COVID-19 Can Apply for Disaster Loans

HARRISBURG – Senator Lisa Baker is working to reduce the impact of Governor Wolf’s order on Thursday for all non-life-sustaining businesses to close. A list of business types that would be affected by this order is available at www.pasenategop.com/covid-19-resources.

Any company that believes they should be considered a life-sustaining-business can apply for a waiver at this email add ...read more

COVID-19 Small Business Financing Assistance

Carbon County – March 19, 2020- Our communities and businesses in Carbon County continue to feel the increased impact of COVID-19. Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corp. (CCEDC) along with our partner Northeast PA Alliance (NEPA) have been engaged since the onset of this outbreak to be sure businesses stayed informed and know what assistance is available.

CCEDC will assist busi ...read more

Urgent Blood Drive in White Haven

The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Healthy individuals are needed now to donate to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.

To date, nearly 2,700 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country. These cancellations have resulted in some 86,000 fewe ...read more

Centenary UMC in Weatherly cancels services

As numbers continually increase within our country and even right here in Pennsylvania, starting immediately, Centenary UMC will be taking precautionary measures to do our part in preventing the spread of this virus. Our Sunday services for March 22, and March 29 are hereby canceled. We ask you to please refer to our website for information and live streaming worship opportunities. T ...read more

Journal-Herald to provide free emergency subscriptions

If you know people in White Haven or Weatherly area who are not going out and who do not have access to the internet, please let me know. We are going to provide free subscriptions for the duration of the emergency to them.

Pocono Mountain SD to provide meals for students in need during emergency school closure

Pocono Mountain School District will begin offering students grab-and-go meal service beginning Tuesday, March 17, 2020, between the hours of 9 a.m. to noon.

Meals will be provided on weekdays only, from March 17 through March 20, and March 23 through March 27.

The District will offer this free meal service at the following schools for all District children regardless of which schools t ...read more

PHLT events cancelled

In light of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, PHLT is taking precautionary measures to prevent the spread of this virus.
As of Saturday, March 14th, 2020, Brodhead Creek Heritage Center will be closed to the public until March 31st. Fortunately, PHLT staff members are able to work remotely throughout this time, and can be reached by email.
Events planned for March, including the Pour and ...read more

LVHN and St. Luke’s Create Common Hospital Visitation Restrictions to Limit Any Confusion in the Community

With the health and safety of patients, staff and the community in mind during the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) and St. Luke’s University Health Network are implementing a common “No Visitation, No Access Policy” for all their hospitals and outpatient facilities, including Lehigh Valley Physician Group (LVPG) and St. Luke’s Physician Gr ...read more

LVHN cancels programs

During the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, health care organizations all over the world are taking steps to ensure the health and safety of their patients and employees. Lehigh Valley Health Network is no different. That is why we have made the decision to suspend all community programs that were scheduled up to April 15. This precautionary step helps ensure the health and safety of ...read more

Lions postpone Spaghetti Supper

As a precautionary measure in response to the current COVID-19 situation, the White Haven Lions Club Spaghetti Supper, originally scheduled for April 21st, 2020 has been postponed until a later date, to be announced.

LVHN Establishes Coronavirus (COVID-19) Patient Testing Centers Throughout the Region

Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) remains vigilant as the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) evolves. The health network’s latest action as a leader in infection control and prevention is to immediately establish designated, stand-alone COVID-19 assessment and testing centers throughout the region.
“We are taking extraordinary steps to deliver the smart, comprehensive care people need ...read more

Trout Unlimited Program postponed

The Western Pocono Trout Unlimited program scheduled for Tuesday, March 17 at the White Haven Area Community Library has been postponed.

Soup sale postponed

The soup/bake sale scheduled for March 21st at McMichaels United Methodist Church has been postponed.

Aaron Lewis Concert Postponed until May 29th
at Mohegan Sun Arena in Wilkes-Barre

In light of ongoing developments resulting from the coronavirus and recommended provisions put in place by the State of Pennsylvania, Aaron Lewis “The State I’m In Tour Acoustic Songs & Stories” concert scheduled for Friday, March 13th at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza has been postponed until Friday, May 29th at 8pm.
Tickets for the originally scheduled performance will be honored o ...read more

Shows Postponed at Kirby Center

The performance of Dinosaur World Live at the F.M. Kirby Center has been postponed at the recommendation of Governor Tom Wolf. The safety and health of our audiences is our highest priority and we encourage everyone to follow the guidelines put forth by public health officials. Dinosaur World Live! will be canceled but the Kirby Center is excited to announce Dragons and Mythical Beas ...read more

Fisher Program cancelled

The Fisher in Pennsylvania educational program that was scheduled to be presented at the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum in McDade Park on Sunday, March 15, at 2:30 p.m. has been cancelled.
Questions can be directed to William Williams at the Game Commission Northeast Region Office in Dallas at (570) 675-1143 Ext. 55008 or by contacting Lackawanna Audubon President Susan Zenk ...read more

Madden announces changes to district office operations effective March 13

MONROE, March 12 – State Rep. Maureen Madden D-Monroe, is alerting residents that her district offices will close to the public and operations will be by phone, mail and email only starting Friday, March 13 to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 and for the safety of the public.

Madden said constituents can email her at RepMadden@pahouse.net.

“My office will be closed starting tomor ...read more

Coronavirus: Monroe County Commissioners Ask Voters to Consider Voting By Mail-In Ballot

3/12/2020 – Stroudsburg, PA ---The Monroe County, PA Commissioners share the concern of the community regarding the COVID 19 (coronavirus) virus. We are taking the same steps that other prudent organizations should consider to limit the spread of the virus:
 We encourage our staff to heighten their practice of good health habits (frequent hand washing with warm soapy water, sneezing ...read more

Carbon County Band Festival cancelled

Carbon County Band Festival at Jim Thorpe High School that was scheduled for next week is officially cancelled due to the Coronavirus Pandemic.  We will do what we can to plan for a one or two day festival later in the school year if possible.

Tobyhanna Twp Postpones Public Meeting

POCONO PINES, Pa. – The Work Session to discuss a new C-1 zoning district in Long Pond is postponed, the Board of Supervisors announced today.

The call comes in light of the spread of COVID-19 to Eastern Pennsylvania, with confirmed cases in Montgomery, Monroe, Wayne, and Bucks counties.

“The health and well-being of our residents is our top priority,” states John Kerrick, Chair. “Our ...read more

National Museum of Industrial History to Celebrate International Women’s Day with Weekend of Events

Sponsored by: Keystone Savings Foundation, Just Born, and OraSure Technologies

BETHLEHEM, Pa., - This weekend the National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH) will kick-off a month-long commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of Women’s Suffrage with International Women’s Weekend. Women’s Weekend will celebrate the voices and stories of women in industry through a full schedule of you ...read more

Shopping for Energy Suppliers Can Help Cut Costs


By State Rep. Jack Rader (R-Monroe)

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is alerting consumers about the potential for large winter energy cost increases for electric customers who do not shop for competitive electric suppliers.

To avoid the possibility of “sticker shock” from high bills during the coming cold months, the PUC reminds consumers that the start of winter is an ...read more

Our new phone number

The Atlantic Broadband phones are in, and working great. Our new number is 570-215-0204.

MATT ~ The Marker Advocates of Tobyhanna Township

This video is about MATT MARKER DISCOVERY inviting you to explore the northeast Pocono Mountains in Tobyhanna Township. An odyssey through history examining what transpired in the development of northeast Pennsylvania, specifically Tobyhanna Township and the surrounding area.

New Obituary Page

Obituaries published in The Journal-Herald and The Journal of the Pocono Plateau will now also be posted to the Obituary page on this website. Because the papers are not published daily, some obituaries may appear first on the web, so people can be informed about calling hours and service details.

When to Take Away the Car Keys from Aging Parents

Figuring out when it’s time for a loved one to stop driving is one of the tougher challenges a family can face. Driving means independence, which is an increasingly precious commodity as we get older. While you don’t want to make your parents miserable by taking away their keys, you don’t want to see them get into a serious accident, either. But how do you know when it’s time to inte ...read more

Tips for Traveling with Someone Suffering from
Dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease

A dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis doesn’t necessarily mean the end of all travel, but it does mean taking extra precautions and making extra preparations in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. For those seniors who are able, travel is part of a healthy balanced lifestyle in preventing and slowing the onset of dementia.

Griswold Home Care of Luzerne & Lackawanna C ...read more

Protect Your Aging Relatives from Heat Exhaustion and
Dehydration This Summer

Of the 8,000-plus heat-related deaths reported annually in the United States, 36 percent are among those age 65 and older, according to a Centers for Disease Control Heat-Related Illness Survey. Hospitalizations for heat-related symptoms increase for those over 85.

Everyone wants to ensure their loved ones are comfortable and safe during the hot weather, but checking up on neighbors an ...read more

Pocono Springs proposal

In the most recent edition of The Journal of the Pocono Plateau, we promised to upload the Pocono Springs presentation made recently in Tobyhanna Township. We weren't able to upload it here, but we did put it on our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/Journal-of-the-Pocono-Plateau-115632595121731/#
Please view it there.

PennDOT Launches Video to Assist Pennsylvanians in Navigating Roundabouts

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today launched a video to assist Pennsylvanians in navigating roundabouts. The video instructs viewers how to use both single and multi-lane roundabouts whether in a vehicle, on a bicycle or on foot.

The video can be accessed by visiting the roundabout page on www.penndot.gov or by visiting the department’s YouTu ...read more

Welcome!

Set your bookmark right now, because this is a website you'll want to return to regularly. We will be posting news, pictures, last minute stories, events listings and much more to keep you informed about what's happening in and around our western edge of the Pocono Plateau. Watch for PDF postings of The Journal-Herald, The Journal of the Pocono Plateau, and The Journal of Penn-Kidder.

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