December 2012

First of all, I would like to thank everyone who attended our November presentation "Vintage film of 40's, 50's and 60's".  Our Historical Society is alive and growing. The need to expand is increasingly becoming larger and with the co-operation of St. Stan's Community Center and the St. Faustina's Parish we will have access to the new facility for events such as this.  Unfortunately, while it is in its construction phase the Center is not available.  Our home, the Samantha Mill house is quite adequate for housing our business needs but undersized for presentations such as this.  With the growing interest in our Society we hope we can better serve our community. We apologize for any inconvenience we may have caused you and plan to present the films again in the spring at the new facility.

   

On Thursday evening of the 29th the Historical Society gave its presentation to about 30 guests whom tightly packed our limited seating area.  The presentation was on early events in Nanticoke donated to the Historical Society. Chet Zaremba, whom took on the task of acquiring and transferring the films to digital, gave the presentation.

How the films where acquired:

 Years ago in Nanticoke there was a photo store, Borofski’s photo. Chet Zaremba got know Norm Borofski, the son.  Then last year, when he passed away these films were found in his basement. We were able to acquire these films through the people who did the house sale, a store in Plymouth called Yesterday’s Treasure’s an antique store.  When they realized the historical value they donated them to the Nanticoke Historical Society.  The original films were on 8 mm and 16 mm formats. We had taken four of the most significant films and had them transferred to a digital format for a presentation such as this.

The first film of  WWII vintage were made somewhere around the time of 1942-1944 and showed enlistees or draftees boarding a train in Nanticoke leaving for the 2^nd World War.  The Pennsylvania Railroad rail station, by recollection of some of the attending guests, was located down on Lower Broadway.  The first film only ran 4 minutes, but the significance was that they were in color.  Considering the age the images were quite clear and the transfer process preserved and enhanced the original media.  The film also showed a parade and the crowd that came to see the boys who went off to war.   At the time Nanticoke had two train stations a freight station and a passenger station.  In the film you could see the train arrive, the boys board the train and the train leaving.

A second film in B&W showed an early 6 County Firemen’s Convention Parade, showed Nanticoke in a way that probably few remember with streets filled with busy shops and businesses and crowds of people. Guests pointed out how slim everyone was and how people were well groomed and dressed and how the Ladies all had worn hats.  Fire apparatus was then all open cab and some guests could identify the years in which the machines were made, some dating back into the 1940’s.  Visiting companies from Hazelton and Tamaqua could be seen.

A third film showed a high school football game. Players had no pads and referees wore no stripped uniforms.  The old high school stadium could be seen.

Chet continued the presentation with photos of Nanticoke selected from his vast library. Photos showed Main Street Nanticoke from the pre 1900’s. Included were photos of the old State Theater, Frank Matheson’s Nanticoke Hotel, the old post office, the old Acme, Al Fink Oldsmobile Dealership.  Photos showed store fronts which had window displays and what Chet referred to as Islands or window displays with passage ways to the main entrance to the store on either side. Photos showing old telephone poles had up to seven cross members to support a separate subscriber wire line for each telephone customer. Chet also showed photos of Diamonds Candy Store after the closing with ornate trim, seating booths and malt shop decor. Everyone immensely enjoyed the presentation and we are looking forward to making it again when we can use the facility.

Luzerne County Community College Tree Festival

Katy Sweeny again did an outstanding job with a unique tree decorating design for our entry.  The theme of course was history and the ornaments were cleverly crafted vintage photos of Nanticoke.  The event feature delectable creations from the Culinary Art students with an assortment of baked Holiday treats. The event was held on Friday Nov. 30^th in the Conference Center of the LCCC Campus off of Prospect Street and was open to the public from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Fall / Labor Day / Halloween 2012

Pumpkin Patch at Braces Orchard

Hurricane Sandy devastated most of the east coast and damaged quite a bit of the central United States.  Fortunately the Wyoming Valley was not hit as hard as many other places.  Nanticoke was graciously spared. Now with Halloween behind we can look forward to Thanks Giving and some of us who were spared the devastation of the Super Storm have a lot to be thankful for.

But, in spite of such misfortune there was some good things about this fall to celebrate. The Fall season typically starts with the unofficial close of the summer, Labor Day.  The Fall equinox, which  occurs around the 22nd of September, marks the time of the year when the tilt of the Earth''s axis is neither towards or away from the Sun.  A time of a change of seasons, a time when daylight hours grow shorter, a time when the sky takes on a yellow-golden-red hue,  a time when the weather is neither frigidly cold as in the winter nor brutally hot as in the summer, a time of magnificent color.  Our thoughts often turn to cool morning and evenings, warm afternoons, crisp fresh apples, gourds and pumpkins, corn stalks and scarecrows and yes apple cider. The Fall is perhaps the most pleasant time of the year to get out and enjoy.  With so much to partake in one must choose.  Here are some of the things that I have chosen this year.

Mt. Airy Lodge & Casino - Labor Day

 A leisurely ride in the country side makes for a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.  I, myself am not much of a gambler.  But, the ride out to Mt. Airy Lodge was pleasant and relaxing.  I had gone with friends, while they went off to wager for some good fortune, I strolled around the grounds where there was plenty else to do.  It was the Labor Day celebration at Mt. Airy and had much for others that did not choose to enjoy the gaming.  There were food vendors, live entertainment, fireworks, horse drawn wagon rides and the very pleasant Lodge grounds to stroll around  and enjoy.  We stopped for lunch inside the Casino in a 50's style dinner.  The food was quite good.  Service excellent.  And the prices, considering that we were in the Poconos  were quite reasonable.

Carlisle Fall Auctions

On a Friday in October I took a ride down to Carlisle for the Fall Auctions.  If your not familiar with the Fall Auctions, they are all about a vintage automobile enthusiasts and their cars. No matter what vehicle of choice is yours, anything and everything you might imagine is available here. Whatever your year make or model, there is something for your restoration project. New re-manufactured stock, new old stock, used old stock, it's all there.  Many times parts for your old car are simply not made any more. Fellow enthusiasts may buy old cars from people who may have old vehicles in barns or fields for parts and then sell off parts they may not need for themselves.
I, myself am not into automobile restoration, but I do have a friend that is.  My interest was in visiting South Central Pennsylvania, the Shippensburg area in particular.  There is something about the South Central PA that I've liked since visits to Carlisle. Just slightly warmer by a few degrees the fall colors were at their peak. The area, very close to the DC area, is a very pleasant place to visit. I immensely enjoy visiting my new friends Teri & Chris Pensinis, proprietors of North Hanover Grill Carlisle. Their restaurant, only a few minutes from the Carlisle Fair Grounds is a great place to get something to eat and beverage or two. Chris's establishment is very pleasantly styled in concert with the N. Hanover Street Historic District in Carlisle.

Wheels @ Nuangola Halloween Bash

Cindy and Roz stop for a picture. My friends Roz and Bruce setup for an evening of good music.  R&B DJ's, you would think would be Rhythm & Blues, but they do all kinds of music.  This evening at Wheels @ Nuangola they had an impromptu Halloween Bash.  Good food, Good prices.  When your up in Mountain Top stop by for a quick lunch. Visit them @ Wheels

Center Street Hot Dog / Block Party

Vampira came down with the bug to the Hot Dog Block party on Center Street in the Hanover Section.  Yes, it was contagious,  But we loved it. About 200 hot dogs were passed out to ghosts, goblins, pirates and hobos.  There might have been a few little angles there as well. Hurricane Sandy hit the night of "Trick or Treat", fortunately Nanticoke was not hit as hard as a lot of other places.  So, the block party did go on.  During the day there were lingering  showers and although the evening was seasonably chilly the party did go on.
On a closing note:

Members of the Nanticoke Historical Society are working with Fr. Nash and St. Faustina's Parish Community Center to help bring the Arts back into town as well as  civic and community related events for the betterment of our town. The old St. Stan's Church makes for a fine small size hall for such work.
We plan on some upgrades and improvements and hope to have a first rate facility for everyone to enjoy.

  We appreciate and thank you for your support.

Fall events 2012

100 Years!

Sometimes I can't think of anything to blog about and again there are times when there is so much that you can not choose.  Several events have happened lately that deserve honorable mention.
A great deal of work went into the preparation of the 100th Anniversary of Holy Transfiguration.  Centennial books, dinner preparations, invitations and so much more.

The Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church Nanticoke Pa celebrated their 100 Year Anniversary on Sept. 23, 2012.  A Celebration Mass was held at 2:00 pm that afternoon. I had done a blog spot earlier this year while centennial preparations where in progress Transfiguration-100-years. The Mass Celebration was followed by a dinner at the Church Hall. Guests  included: Rev. Stefan Soroka, Msgr. Peter Walso, Rev. John Seniw, Rev. Volodymer Popyk, Rev. Roman Petryshak, Rev. Volodymer Klichka, Msgr. Myron Grabowski, Rev.John Wysochanski, Rev. Paul Wolensky, Rev. Nestor Iwasiw, Rev. James McGahagan, Rev. Adam Sexton, Sister Thomas Hrynewwicz and Sisiter Martin Rodko.

Dr. Richard Barno has been the choir director for 37 years.  He has masterfully instructed and directed the Holy Year Choir with dedication and commitment.  This day's celebration included a magnificent performance. The choir's harmonies were precise and tight and added a great deal to the joy to the parish on their special day.  The day concluded with dinner at the Church Hall.




St. Stanislaw's Community Center

 Sept. 29, 2012. The Nanticoke Historical Society hosted Charles Patrillo - Historian.  Charles had earlier presented a lecture on steam boats on the Susquehanna River at the Samantha Mill House.  This day, Charles offered a presentation on Hansen's Amusement park.  Charles interestingly explained how the early trolley companies built the amusement parks to promote ridership on the the trolleys.

This was the first time Historical Society had the opportunity to use new community center and although there is plenty of work yet to be done, it holds great promise of great things for the community. They have already done a children's talent show and may possibly move the Christmas Nativity play held at Holy Child picnic grounds to the new venue, just one possibility of many.

Father Nash with Board member Jack Minsavege stops for a snapshot.  They have been working hard planning and organizing future events at the new center. Jack offers to the board a vast knowledge and experience in sound engineering and mixing that he has acquired in his very own recording studio right here in Nanticoke. http://www.highersoundstudio.com/
His professional expertise will help local productions here at the community center.

St. Faustina's Pork -N- Sauerkraut Dinner

Sunday October 7 St. Mary's Hall Hanover St.

Tickets will be available after Masses at St. Faustina's and St. Mary's

Support the Church and the Community!

Many people have been working hard on this first ever pilot project.  This fund raiser will generate proceeds for the general maintenance fund.  But, that's really not what it's all a about.  It's really about community involvement with Church and Community, fellowship and friendship.  There's always someone behind the scene's rolling up the sleeves and doing the work.  The idea probably originated the basement of Jimmy Kline.  It's kind of a tradition to make the homemade Sauerkraut and when they do it's no small project.  Helping out making cabbage out of sauerkraut for the Church are his buddies Rich & Franky.  If you see them at the dinner thank them for the fine effort!

Our Story of the Month

This one is extraordinary as it has been the fruit of almost a quarter century of research.  John Rynkiewicz has been doing extensive family research that has shown to touch the lives of so many here in Nanticoke.  There is a fascinating story of the family homeland in Poland with photos and documents of the past generations. It is an ongoing quest for knowledge. As this unfolds, I'm sure like a web this will in some way touch your own personal life by acquaintance or relationship.

Local Model Airplane Show

I've taken a little break from Blogging, but I haven't forgotten about all my loyal followers.  With so much happening around our community, getting around can sometimes be a challenge and this aging beat up body doesn't get around like it used to.  So much to do and see, I had to pick something.  This month's blog is about something I've been involved with in the past.  It's something I've enjoyed for many years.
Although I do not fly models myself, I admire and enjoy the skills these gentlemen have accomplished.  I had enjoyed the company of the members of the club for a few years now. And, many of them are residents of Nanticoke. I have posted on YouTube videos that I had made to help promote club, not for personal gain but for the love of the art.  Now I write this blog to help you keep connected with the old home town or if you have moved away or you don't mind my endless ramblings and your just looking for somewhere to surf on the web.

Model airplane flying can be an expensive and challenging hobby.  It involves a learned skill set, as crashes can be painfully expensive as well as dangerous. To be a member of the Wyoming Valley RC Flyers organization you are require to have bond protection in the event of an accident. It requires commitment, as some people may have a natural ability with hand-eye coordination and spacial cognizance others may need to develop it through perverseness and dedication.  Computer simulator programs and hardware can be purchased for a considerably less cost that an actual model and although crashes are a lot less costly than with an actual model, they are equally as humbling.  It requires a level  of dedication, as these gentlemen are truly pilots. If you have any doubts, ask a pilot to let you fly with a buddy box.  It is a device were the owner can take over control when you are headed for an eminent disaster.  Believe me, unless you have trained andd I have tried, your flight will be short. It requires a basic knowledge of radios, aviation, small engines, aircraft design and rules of operation defined by the AMA the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Radio channel assignments must be administered by a coordinator so that signals from your controller do not interfere with another pilots aircraft at least in public venues such as this. Understanding  the difference between analog and digital controllers and receivers helps the pilot determine range and control limits of his aircraft.  Although younger people enjoy the hobby,  it is well suited for the older person, as it keeps one's mind sharp with physical and metal exercise.  It is a hobby better suited to an individual who has the time and resources to dedicate to the purpose.  If you are an individual who's time is consumed by a career, occupation, family or other responsibilities then perhaps your considerations would be better applied else ware. If you have the fortitude to maintain all that is necessary for the hobby your rewards will be great.  As for myself, perhaps I will venture forward to the challenge one day in the future, but for now I prefer to watch the pros fly. That  is good enough for now.

 I have visited in the past, the Wyoming Valley RC Flyers. To watch the planes soar and  fly lends to the imagination what it must be like to pilot of a full scale aircraft. Moon Lake Park, where the hobbyists fly, is one of the finest assets Luzerne County has to offer.  It was at one time  a well maintained facility offering the residents of Luzerne County some real quality of life alternatives with camping, fishing, a beautiful public swimming pool. The degradation of the park and loss of the amenities  has been a devastating set back for the residents of the county.  The lake is still accessible for fishing and the club still has access to the field where they have for years honed their skills.  It is a relaxing ride to a haven from from the reality of real life of being unemployed or under employed.  To take an hour or two to enjoy water and fresh air regenerates one's soul. And, to take up conversation with people who share your interests is both satisfying and refreshing.

A few weeks a go I did just that and took a ride out to Moon Lake Park to take in the the fresh air and water.  When I go, I always stop at the model airplane field and usually find a pilot or two to visit with and chat.  Upon entering the park I had noticed signs of the upcoming event of which was Sunday Sept. 9, 2012. I sat and chatted with pilots,  we talked about the radio controllers and how the park was once quite the place to visit. One gentleman was adjusting the fuel mixture of his plane as the idol of the engine would drop off and the engine would stall which could be a disastrous in flight experience. While I was there it happened. But, because of the skill of this pilot, he saved his air craft with a powerless landing.  Simply Awesome! The other pilot had a battery powered electric plane that when took to the air accept for the much quieter whrrr of the motor seemed more like a bird rather than a model. I made note of the date of the pending show, told the gentlemen I was looking forward to them and was off on my way.

 At one time the club had a website where information about events such as this could be found.  But, as time passes, people come and go and things change and the website is no longer available..  After some surfing and searching on the web I managed to find information to confirm what I thought I had gathered. And thus, proceeded.  On Sunday of Sept. 9, I started out a little after noon.  The show already started at 11:00am and when I arrived a respectably sized crowd had gathered for the event. They had a tent set up where hamburgers and hot dogs could be had in return for a donation to the club,  raffles and chances were available and prizes provided by Walter's Hardware where kits and accessories for the hobby are available.  A flight simulator was set up with a nice HD monitor, where you could fly without crashing a model. A pit area was setup for exhibitors to prepare their aircraft weather it be fueling, assembling, tweaking or adjusting.  Spectators were asked to refrain from entering for their own safety as well as the welfare of the models.  During intermission periods the spectators were allowed in side the pit area to view the aircraft up close. The decals and extraordinary detail were amazing.

This was a  fine show by some amazing gentlemen.  Thank you for your contribution to our Community.

NE PA Retro

I've added a new Facebook page.  Of course everyone is welcome here at the Nanticoke History Online Blog Spot.  But, because we are Nanticoke History you may not be entirely comfortable with your posts or input on events of history outside of Nanticoke.  That's all right, they are still welcome.  My new page offers a wider range of latitude.  A lot of times events not directly related to Nanticoke affect our lives here.  We want to know and share some of those special memories. We encourage you to share events or stories of Nanticoke on our Facebook page .  But, they will be welcome as well on NE PA Retro.

Of course our coal mining heritage is an important and integral part of who we are.  How Nanticoke developed and grew through some hard times, the depression, floods and  World War II showed the strength and endurance of the people here.  But, there is so much more.  Our businesses, community, schools, churches and special events not only in Nanticoke but our surrounding communities contribute to the aggregate of our lives and our past. Remember and share some of your most rewarding and happy times with us.  Let us say, Oh yes! I remember! What you post or contribute does not have to be 200 years old. To the Children of recent generations, President Kennedy's visit here or the Bicentennial Celebration is of their time.  As time progresses we will leave on to the next generation our heritage and past  that will grow and progress with the generations to follow.

NE PA Retro is not intended to chronicle so much the events of our past but rather to share some of those special experiences.  It may be a church picnic, a drive in theater that you once visited, school dances, special football or basket ball games or other memories that we share.   

But most of all, it is about having a little fun and finding something in common with someone who yesterday did not know but is now a new friend.  So, come visit, share and enjoy.  And, say Yes! I' remember.

You are important in our community!

I've noticed, at meetings, that most people interested our Historical Society are prone to be the over 50 crowd. That, in itself is not a bad thing.  We are a bit older and can remember from some experience or stories from our parents, their friends or older relatives a lot of things we discuss as topic.  We are also less occupied with social events that lend themselves to younger people, such as young children who have scholastic activities, sports, academics and so forth . Being of senior years or closely approaching we may have interests in our grandchildren's activities or affairs, but may not be as consumed in it as much.  After all, they have parents, our children, to deal with it as we did in our time.

Many of us have a strong spiritual connection with our community, through our churches or other institutions of faith, inspiration or spirituality.  But, it is also important as we grow older that we maintain of our civic community connection.  It is what helps keep our minds and bodies healthy.  That is why we have joined and contributed to organizations like the Nanticoke Historical Society.

You are an integral and important member of our society that helps promote our community.
 (not just the Nanticoke Historical Society)

 It is also important to let your voice be heard by voting.  Your vote elects your proxy in our government, to represent your concerns and needs from and in our community. Your proxy, your representative, your Congressman takes your issues of concern to Washington, if you allow yourself to be heard. You must make your voice be heard if you would like him/her and other people to listen. Do not be afraid to address your concerns with your Congressman.  Whom ever she/he maybe, Republican, Democrat or Independent,  they are not as distant and unapproachable as you may think.  In fact, this person has a great deal of interest in listening to you. If you are not as smart phone or computer savvy as you would like to be then  pen, paper, stamp and envelope still work.  Talk to him/her on any issue that is of concern to you about our community. If you have an elderly neighbor or relative who needs help with Police, Fire, Street Dept., pitch in.

Let your voice be heard:
Lou Barletta for Congress
8 West Broad Street, Suite 410
PO Box 128
Hazleton, PA 18201

Office: 570-501-VOTE (8683)
Fax: 570-501-8688


Lou Barletta for Congress


An Issue of Mine - Resolved!
 As an example: The recent voter ID law may have created a problem for some senior citizens or even students of voting age that have not obtained valid identification, making the task of obtaining proper ID and voting more difficult.  Whether this problem was intentional or not is of no matter.  It is now the law to be respected and dealt with appropriately.  I have scourered the internet  for information on this subject, not to find a whole lot. Those of us who have not grown up in the information age may find the digging and surfing to be just to much work and  just give in to the fact that we will not vote this November. After all, its only one vote. Who listens to me anyway? Our good congressman, who may not necessarily represent all my views (that's my fault) has come through for me with flying colors. I have found answers through this resource as I expect you will as well.

You as a person are important.  Your voice is to be heard.  Maintain your purpose by staying involved. Stay active in our community.  Do what you can.  Never give up. You need not fill out an employment application form.  You will not have personnel file.  Any help or contribution you make will be appreciated.  Make Friends! Have fun! Join our Community.


The purpose of this blog  is to promote our community and Nanticoke Historical Society.
Your are always welcome at our home
Samantha Mill House • 495 East Main Street • Nanticoke, PA 18634•             570.258.1367      
Please call first. We work part time.

I refrain from political commentary on this blog.  But if you are interested in my personal views  you may visit me at Life in NEPA 

Patriots Day Parade 2012

A brand new project for the City of Nanticoke and the South Valley Chamber of Commerce got off precisely at 11:00 am.  The first ever Patriots Day Parade was an event by City and the Chamber of Commerce to honor and salute those who have given to us public service and added a another accolade to the list of positive achievements of our community. The parade which was  promptly dispatched from the high school grounds with police escort  at 11:00 am.  proceeded down Green Street to Patriot Square where vendors and Honey Pot Productions where already setup.  Honey Pot productions provided digital music for the event.

 The parade lined up at the Nanticoke High School parking lot at about 10:00 am Sunday morning.

Line up in order of arrival Rear to Front

• Various Emergency Service vehicles
  Nanticoke, Newport township

• Nanticoke Boys Softball Champs
• Five Mountain Bear Clan
• Endless Dreams Animal Rescue
• UGI Gas division Car gas fueled Car
• Nanticoke Historical Society
• Birchwood Nursing Facility
• South Valley Chamber of Commerce
• National Guard
• VFW Color Guard
• Nanticoke EMS

The events of the day

 The Nanticoke Boys Champion Soft Ball Team.

Members from the South Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Nanticoke Historical Society where on hand as well to contribute and pitch in. Of course there was the Five Mountain Bear clan dressed in traditional Native American attire, representing the rich history of our region. The National Guard and VFW units where there as well as EMS and fire units from Nanticoke and Newport townships.

The Ladies From Birchwood Nursing Facility Middle Rd Nanticoke With Chris SVCC parade Chairman.

One of the most interesting participants was an organization from the Benton area- Endless Dreams Animal Retreat. An Educational organization dedicated to the rescue and care of animals.  Not just any animals but some very exotic animals.  On their float, among other animals  like a raccoon, cockatoo, goat and various snakes was a crocodile. The young girls from pre-teen to mid- teen years gently and affectionately handled snakes, showing the benign and gentle nature of these  creatures. The crocodile was obviously not one of the creatures be handled.  It was interesting to see this creature, caged but up close. You can find out more about Endless Dreams.
 Visit their Facebook page

 The people of Nanticoke enjoy and attend events like this regularly.  It seems that they just didn't know about the event. And, that is where I myself have room for improvement. Working with the Historical Society, I  want to contribute to the cultural awareness of our community.  It's not just our history, but  our story, who we are and where we are going. The events of today are important, as one day they will be history and we will have a means  to reflect, remember and look back at this time. For more photos of this event and to post your comments visit us on Facebook.
The South Valley Chamber of Commerce on Facebook