Principal Happenings in Luzerne County for the Year Which Began December
1, 1943, and Ended November 30, 1944

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DECEMBER 1943
1.  Army Service Forces recruits 12 clerks for duty in Washington . . .
State Health Department dismisses two workers due to withdrawal of
Federal funds . . . Auto injuries prove fatal to Harry Balliet, of
Nuangola.
2.  Fire damages storage room of American Stores Company, East Market
Street . . . John J. Skuba named superintendent of Wilkes-Barre Township
Schools to succeed John P. Shannon . . .
Dr. John J. Korn, Wilkes-Barre physician, reports for duty in Southwest
Pacific.
3.  Clyde Roberts, mine foreman, killed in explosion at Plainsville . .
. One mine worker killed and two others injured in separate accidents .
. . Farm machinery in barn at Kunkle destroyed by early evening fire . .
. Ten electricians pass test by examining board.
4.  Westminister Sunday School celebrates 100th anniversary.
5.  Very Rev. J. J. M'Guckin, pastor of St.
Ignatius Church, Kingston, dies in local hospital . . . Mobile Canteen
donated to Salvation Army by Odd Fellows and Rebekah Lodges.
6.  Charles E. Tite and Thomas J. Collins elected to fill vacancies on
Wilkes-Barre City School Board as Dr. W. A. Weaver is elected board
chairman.  
7.  Hazard Plant suffers damage by fire . . . City Council delays action
on pay boosts for employees . . . Lt. J. J. Gibbons, Jr., Avoca doctor,
officially pronounced dead by government.
8.  Selective Service headquarters announce heavy draft quotas for
ensuing six months.
9.  Miners begin to collect back wages . . .
Mrs. Ellen Ellis, Wilkes-Barre, celebrates 80th birthday anniversary . .
. Mrs. Gabriela Beck, war worker, slain as she prepares to start work.
10.  Rev. Claude Kummerr feted as he prepares to leave for a new charge
at Brisbin, Pa. . . . Two-million dollar will of F. M. Kirby filed.
11.  No report.
12.  Hanover Township dedicates Honor Roll for servicemen and women.
13.  Herman F. Phillips, real estate dealer celebrates 80th birthday
anniversary . . .
Howard C. Weiner re-elected head of
Westmoreland Club . . . Frigid weather accompanied by high winds, visits
Wyoming Valley for first time in season.
14.  Andrew C. Kizis, cashier of Pittston
Bank, admits embezzlement of $187,000 from bank funds . . . Surprise
blackout finds mobilization units alert.
15.  Charles Hewitt, Kingston, decorated with Distinguished Flying Cross
. . . Grip epidemic sweeps valley . . . Rev. Nicholas
Chopey celebrates 40th anniversary as pastor of St. Mary's Greek
Catholic Church . . . Cold weather continues . . .
Douglas MacNeal, Nanticoke, returns from Hawaii after 22 months, to
enlist in the Army Air Corps.
16.  Wilkes-Barre City employees granted
salary increase . . . City hospitals ordered closed to visitors to curb
flu cases . . . Lehigh Valley Railroad makes several changes in
personnel . . . Attorney John R. Hessel wins court case against estate
of Mary Yeager.
17.  Plains and Wyoming close schools to combat flu epidemic.
18.  Employees of Roy Stauffer share in $17,000 bonus, distributed in
United States War Bonds.
19.  Cold wave with strong winds hits Wyoming Valley . . . Sgt. John
Boyle, Wilkes-Barre, previously reported missing in action, prisoner of
the German government.
20.  Catholic Schools close due to illness of teachers and students.
21.  Rev. William D. Glenn, Luzerne pastor, commissioned a chaplain in
the Army . . . J. Andrew Boyd, editor emeritus of the Record, dies after
a short illness. He completed 71 years of service with one newspaper . .
. City firemen answer 13 alarms within 17 hours.
22.  Kizis and Marianelli found guilty on seven counts in misapplication
of Pittston bank funds . . . Price Ceiling Panel reports to Scranton
office of OPA that two black markets dealing in meats are active in
North Wilkes-Barre . . . Hazard Wire Rope Division receives Army-Navy
award for war production.
23.  University of Scranton building burns to ground . . . Temperature
takes sharp decline for second cold spell within two weeks . . . Rev.
and Mrs. Robert Wilner, former Plymouth residents, reported to be
prisoners of Japanese government.
24.  Cruiser Wilkes-Barre launched at Camden, N. J., sponsored by Mrs.
Charles H. Miner, Wilkes-Barre . . . Rail and bus lines taxed with
servicemen and former residents returning for holiday.
25.  President Roosevelt delivers Christmas message to Americans
stationed in all countries of the world.
26. One youth killed and several injured in accidents caused by sleet
storm . . . Hundreds of servicemen stranded in city as all bus schedules
are canceled due to hazardous highways . . . Rev. Jerome Koval,
Wilkes-Barre, celebrates first mass at Sacred Heart Church.
27. President Roosevelt orders seizure of nation's railroads to prevent
delay in delivery of supplies to fighting men . . . Joseph Nickel,
caretaker of St. Ann's Academy, killed by hit-run car . . . Dorothy
Woehrle, 17, dies from injuries suffered in automobile accident.
28.  Lehigh Valley Railroad income shows sharp decline . . . OPA
announces cut in gasoline allotments of extra ration coupons.
29.  Edmund McSweeney becomes president of Vulcan Iron Works . . .
Resignation of George H. Brown and W. E. Willingale accepted by the
Vulcan . . .
Joseph Washick, 4, Nanticoke, dies from inuries suffered in a beating by
father.
30. Andrew C. Kizis, former vice president and cashier of Liberty
National Bank, Pittston, sentenced to year in jail for embezzlement and
false entries of bank funds . . . As coal shortage looms, shipments of
anthracite are halted to Midwest to give Eastern states a substantial
supply . . . Tuberculosis Seal sale reaches highest point ever made
since sales started.
31.  Wilkes-Barre City has eight deaths resulting from auto accidents,
in 1943, the number being the same as in l942.

JANUARY 1944 
1.  Anthracite mines in Wyoming Valley work on holiday to increase
production of coal . . . Due to war conditions, whistles and bells
ushering in the New Year were silenced . . .  American Stores Company
warehouse and office building sold to Scranton buyers.
2.  Withold Krzywicki, national treasurer of Polish Union, killed in
auto accident on Tamaqua highway . . . Donald MacLuskie reelected
president of American Federation of Musicians, Local 140 . . . Campaign
opens to enlarge Pennsylvania State Guard . . . Penn Tobacco Company is
purchased by Block Brothers, Wheeling, W. Va.
3.  Sleet storm covers Wyoming Valley making traveling dangerous in
nearby mountains . . . Mayor Con McCole and other city officials sworn
into offices at morning ceremony.
4.  Central Railroad of New Jersey calls for workers as manpower
shortage exists . . . State Department of Mines announces 173 men died
in 1943 while mining coal . . . New and old employees appointed as
Wilkes-Barre City Council holds first reorganization meeting.
5.  Aaron Benesch, former Wilkes-Barre furniture dealer, plunges 27
floors to death at New York hotel.
6.  Freezing temperature converts slush to ice, making roads and walks
hazardous . . . B. C. Gould, Wilkes-Barre native, elected vice president
of Murray Corporation of America . . . Wyoming Valley Motor Club obtains
264 new members in year . . . Dr. Edwin C. Bahnmiller receives honorable
discharge from Army, and resumes private practice.
7.  Melvin G. Robbins, Miners Bank official, retires because of ill
health.
8.  Dr. William F. Davison, Luzerne County Medical director, dies
following a heart attack.
9.  William T. Robertson assumes presidency of Pennsylvania Association
of Manufacturers Representatives.
10.  Murray Corporation of America located at Scranton, dedicated by
Government, Army and local officials . . .  Prelude to Fourth War Loan
drive held at Boston Store with Mayor Con McCole as speaker paying
tribute to the unconquerables.
11.  Practice air-raid alert puts city into darkness for one hour . . .
Posten Taxi and Armour & Company strikes come to an end . . . Miss
Lillian G. Kemmerer elected cashier of National Bank at Ashley - the
first woman in Wyoming Valley to hold such a position . . . Banks of
Wyoming Valley elect new directors and officers.
12.  Tom Hart elected president of Real Estate Board . . . Several
persons injured as bus running between Nanticoke and Honey Pot upsets .
. . Plains firemen battle blaze in Town Hall.
13.  Dr. C. A. Miller, Wilkes-Barre physician, named State Guard captain
. . . Consolidated Cigar Corporation announces opening of new plant at
West Pittston to employ 600 workers. 
14. Dr. Eugene Farley made president of American Association of Junior
Colleges at conference at Cincinnati . . . George Horst, Kingston,
resigns as president of Benesch Sons, furniture dealers.
15.  Anthracite shipments show increase over last year . . . Railroad
brotherhoods accept award offered by President Roosevelt as government
prepares to return roads to owners.
16.  Bethel Baptist Church dedicates Honor Roll containing 78 names of
those serving in the armed forces . . . Reported at annual meeting of
St. Paul's Lutheran Church that 45 members are serving their country.
17.  Police of Wyoming Valley invited to attend FBI Law Enforcement
Conference in Wilkes-Barre . . . Loomis Colliery, Glen Alden Coal
Company,. votes against proposal to work Sundays to increase coal
production . . . Mrs. Abram Nesbitt, 2nd, reelected president of
Georgetown Settlement.
18.  Fourth War Loan Drive opens in Wyoming Valley with quota set at $18
million . . . Plymouth business district suffers $75,000 damage from
late evening general alarm fire . . . Mayor Con McCole called to
anthracite coal conference at Washington to discuss anthracite
shortages.
19.  Two LuzerneCounty men sentenced in Federal Court on draft charges .
. . Dr. Julian S. Long commissioned a captain in U. S. Army . . . Blue
Cross Hospitalization
Plan celebrates fifth anniversary with total membership in local area of
66,000.
20.  Army-Navy "E" award presented to Hazard Wire Rope Company and
American Chain and Cable Division . . . Mr. and Mrs. William M. Keller,
West Pittston celebrate 60th wedding anniversary . . . Luzerne County
Commissioners confer with Governor Martin on maintenance and repairs of
lower Plymouth bridge . . . Dr. C. Haydn Phillips appointed acting
director for State Department of Health to fill vacancy caused by death
of Dr. W. F. Davison.
21.  Bishop William J. Hafey relaxes fasting laws of Scranton Diocese
due to war conditions . . . Dr. Peter Mayock and Councilman Tom A. Evans
appointed directors of Kirby Health Center . . . Lance Colliery, Glen
Alden Coal Company on srike because of suspension of worker.
22.  Pennsylvania State Guard ends drive for additional recruits.
23.  First Reformed Church holds flag dedication . . . Four Kingston
residents affected by coal fumes from defective stove . . . Ralph
Morris, Wilkes-Barre appointed national treasurer of Junior Order of
Mechanics . . . Attorney Mitchell Jenkins promoted to Colonel with Army
in India. 
24.  Breaker and coal washery burns to ground in Jenkins Township - loss
set at $150,000 . . . State asks for ouster of councilmen of Luzerne
Borough because of inability to reorganize.
25.  Dupont Knitting Mill and Steingut Dress Companiy located at Dupont
destroyed by fire - damage estimated at $100,000 . . . Breslau bridge
transferred to the State for future repairs and upkeep.
26. Harold D. Deemer elected head of General Hospital as Elmer E.
Matthews starts 27th year as administrator of the institution . . . West
Pittston Iron Works employees strike in protest of the dismissal of a
fellow worker.
27. George Grunert, native of White Haven, promoted to temporary rank of
Lieutenant General in United States Army . . . Andrew J. Sordoni
reelected president of Wyoming Valley Motor Club . . . Strike ends at
West Pittston Iron Works.
28.  Freak fog visits Wyoming Valley slowing traffic on nearby highways
. . . Andrew J. Sordoni succeeds Robert J. Doran as chairman of American
Red cross . . . Anthracite officials hold conference at Washington to
discuss coal shortage.
30.  Rev. Harold G. Deisher installed as pastor of Christ Lutheran
Church, Wilkes-Barre . . . Rev. Frank L. Hutchinson, pastor of Douglass
Presbyterian Church, resigns to accept position as American
representative in Egyptian YMCA.
31.  Frank Correale, Hazleton contractor, named prison commissioner . .
. Fred M. Kern, general manager of Wilkes-Barre Carriage Companiy,
transfers to Philadelphia plant . . . Dr. Eugene S. Farley elected head
of Torch Club.

February 
1. Edward S. Jenkins, Wilkes-Barre, promoted to rank of Major in Army
Air Corps and Lester Flory, native of Ashley, made Brigadier General . .
 Rev. Robert S. Graham ordained in Ashley Presbyterian Church.
2.  Mayor Con McCole reports on anthracite conference at Philadelphia .
 Two-story home at Larksville destroyed by fire . . . Groundhog sees
shadow forecasting more winter weather.
3.  Several local collieries vote to cooperate with government and work
seven days a week to relieve the coal shortage . . . West Wyoming child
killed by hit-run driver . . . Vice Admiral J. Henry Newton, Pittston
native, awarded Legion of Merit for meritorious service on submarine
patrol.
4.  Rev. and Mrs. W. D. Golightly celebrate 25th wedding anniversary . .
. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Schwartz, Wilkes-Barre, celebrate 64th wedding
anniversary . . . Joseph OBrien promoted to assistant manager of sales
at Vulcan Iron Works.
5.  No report given.
6.  Local miners report for Sunday work in effort to relieve the coal
shortage . . . Stanley Steligo, Miners Mills, honored on 50th
anniversary of his membership in Polish Union.
7.  Peter Masonis elected council head at Luzerne . . . Ralph J.
Johnston, Wilkes-Barre, admitted to practice law.
8.  Jule Ann Fulmer, 2-year-old Pittston child, swallowed by mine cave
and dies of suffocation.
9.  Draft officials in Pennsylvania order quotas increased to build up
large military pool.
10.  Corp. Philip Gorham, Sugar Notch, awarded Silver Star for gallantry
in action in Italy . . . Arthur H. James, Plymouth, takes oath of office
as Judge of Superior Court . . . William B. Healy renamed warden of
Luzerne County prison . . . William Olewine, Hazleton, 96 years of age,
outlives insurance policy and receives cash value of policy.
11.  Wyoming Valley suffers hazardous snow storm.
12.  Luzerne County becomes 11th Congressional district in state . . .
Arthur L. Strayer named chairman of American Red Cross War Fund
Campaign.
13.  Survey of mines shows 72 per cent of workers report for Sunday work
. . . Good Shepherd Church, Plymouth, damaged in evening fire.
14.  Census Bureau reports the population of the State of Pennsylvania
has decreased 6.3 per cent.
15.  Wilkes-Barre Post, American Legion, initiates 58 veterans at
elaborate ceremonies at Legion Home . . . Pittston suffers second cave
estimated to be 20 feet in diameter . . . Dorothy Thompson, newspapers
columnist and author, speaks to capacity audience at Irem Temple . . .
City High Schools graduate 39 Seniors now serving in armed forces.
16.  One person killed and two severely injured in automobile accident
on Moosic highway.
17.  Seven steers break loose from Lehigh Valley Railroad yards and roam
various sections of valley.
18.  Arthur Wahsick, Nanticoke, found guilty of manslaughter in death of
4-year-old son and sentenced to six years in penitentiary . . . Walter
C. Christopher, native of Forty Fort, awarded Presidential citation for
outstanding performance in line of duty in India.
19. Jenkins Township school directors found guilty of misdemeanors in
office.
20.  Output of anthracite declines as fewer miners work on third Sunday
of month . . . Estimated production set at 150,000 tons.
21.  Rev. Martin D. Keeler, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, resigns
to enter Army as chaplain . . . Dr. William B. Schwingen, governor of
Moose Lodge, honored by organization with class initiation.
22.  Lenten season opens with services in various churches in Wyoming
Valley . . . Six inmates of Kis-Lyn Boys' Industrial School escape . . .
Pittston has two additional mine settlings . . . Dr. Charles Montgomery,
Wilkes-Barre, promoted to Major in Army in India.
23.  Charles Sloane installed as commander of Military Order of the
Purple Heart . . . Elwood Hamilton Jones, Hazleton, admitted to Luzerne
County Bar.
24.  Bernard F. Burgunder elected president of Communitiy Welfare
Federation . . . Free and Accepted Masons, Lodge 61, celebrates 150th
anniversary . . . Rev. Jack Leather, assistant rector of St. Stephen's
Church, enters Navy to serve as chaplain.
25.  Susquehanna River blanketed with ice as warm weather starts thaw .
. . State Guard officers attend Officers' School held in Kingston
Armory.
26.  Ralph O. Smith appointed general sales manager at Vulcan Iron
W"orks.
27.  Sunday work in mines shows decline with only 79 per cent of the
workers in the mines . . . OPA circulates tokens for use in purchasing
foods.
28.  War Production Board orders textile mills on 48 hour week to
increase production which has declined in the past year . . . Abbott
Methodist Church, Parsons, hoids service of honor for 62 members in the
armed forces.
29.  American Red Cross begins drive for funds . . . Wilkes-Barre Quota
Club observes 25th anniversary. 

March
1.  George and Theodore Stegmaier donate $20,000 to Mercy Hospital to
maintain "The Maples," a home for cadet
nurses . . . Salvation Army dedicates shower for servicemen at the
Citadel . . .
Nesbitt hospital graduates first full class of cadet nurses.
2.  Rev. Alfred J. Thomas accepts pastorate at Emmanual Baptist Church,
Edwardsville . . . Women of Kiwanis celebrate eighth anniversary . . .
Lord Halifax, British Ambassador to United States, addresses large
audience at St. Stephen's Church house.
3.  American Red Cross graduates class of 71 in home nursing course . .
. Three die as Army training plane crashes near Moosic.
4.  No report given.
5.  Anshe Emeth Congregation unveils honor roll containing the names of
76 members in service.
6.  Glenn Colllins, Jr., Endicott, N.Y., a former resident of
Wilkes-Barre, drowned in Susquehanna River . . . Tech. Sgt. William L.
Grisaitis, Wilkes-Barre, awarded Distinguished Flying Cross for services
in the South Pacific . . . John R. Groves, Bethlehem, appointed general
superintendent of Lehigh Valley Railroad.
7. Rev. Thomas Shearer accepts pastorate at Wyoming Avenue Christian
Church . . . Nanticoke School Board announces probability of dismissing
15 to 20 teachers at end of term due to financial situation . . . Rev.
W. A. Parsons will accept a call to Kingston Presbyterian Church,
succeeding Rev. Abram G. Kurtz . . . Leo J. Johnson named secretary to
Mayor Con McCole.
8.  War contractors are warned to be ready to alter or cancel war
production contracts at notice . . . Representatives of all
municipalities in Wyoming Valley to  meet to discuss mine caves and
their prevention.
9.  United Mine Workers and operators submit new contract to War Labor
Board for approval . . . Dr. George M. Bell, pastor of Dorranceton
Methodist Church, announces retirement . . . South Side YMCA celebrates
22nd anniversary . . . Wilkes-Barre city placed third in the state in
fire prevention.
10.  Dr. John F. Giering promoted to rank of Major in Army at Salina,
Kansas . . . Fire destroys five-family apartment house in Nanticoke -
loss estimated at $318,000.
12.  Wilkes-Barre Aerie of Eagles initiates class of 154 . . . Moosic
man killed and youth injured when their car crashes into Lehigh Valley
train at Dupont . . . Evan L. Roberts, former resident of Edwardsville,
promoted to rank of Major in Quartermaster Corps at Amarillo, Texas . .
. Relief rolls continue to show decline.
13.  Rev. L. D. Reed, Salem Evangelical Church, enters service as
chaplain . . . Adjutant General Robert M. Vail celebrates 50th
anniversary as a member of United States military forces.
14.  Kingston fireman rescues 11-year-old boy from two-mile flood tube .
. . Wilkes-Barre police force affected by Selective Service law as 10
members are scheduled to be inducted . . . Dr. Charles W. Letcher, Navy
flight surgeon, promoted to rank of Commander.
15. Luzerne County Commissioners announce necessity of raising county
tax . . . Wilkes-Barre-Scranton area suffers lack of war contracts
compared to other towns in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
16.  New mine caves discovered in Wilkes-Barre Township, near the city
line . . . Church of the Lighted Cross dedicates Honor Roll.
17.  Edward Eyerman, building inspector, celebrates 69th birthday . . .
City Fire Department suffers manpower shortage as 24 members prepare to
leave for armed services . . . State offers Pittston City sum to start
flushing program to curb mine caves.
18. Susquehanna River reaches 17-foot stage due to melting snow and ice.
19.  Mr. and Mrs. Harry Perkins, Plymouth, celebrate 50th wedding
anniversary . . . First day of spring greeted with heavy snow fall . . .
Two men killed in automobile accident on Hazleton highway due to
slippery condition of roads.
20.  Wyoming Valley has five-inch snow fall . . . Captain Benjamin R.
Jones, former city resident, promoted to commanding officer of St.
Petersburg Salvation Army . . . Luzerne County tax raised 2 miiis.
21.  Rabbi Samuel Wolk elected president of Children's Service Center.
22.  Rev. W. F. Edmunds installed as pastor of Parsons Welsh Baptist
Church . . . Two men killed and five injured at Murray Corporation,
Scranton, as steam line bursts . . . Scranton father saves life of son,
swallowed by mine cave.
23.  Osterhout Library assembles Chinese exhibit in celebration of China
Book Week.
24.  Fire damages apartment in West River Street apartment house . . .
Carl F. Schlingman, manager of Hotel Redington
made manager of Walnut Park Plaza Hotel, Philadelphia.
25.  No report given.
26.  Wartime postage rates go into effect . . . Wilkes-Barre flood
control repairs guaranteed by United States Engineers . . . Major J. D.
Kitchen, Wyoming, retired by Army . . . Wilkes-Barre WAC recruiting
station ranks second in Pennsylvania with Allentown holding first place
. . . Henry Keam, Plymouth celebrates 89th birthday anniversary.
27.  Sister Mary Amelia Connor of St. Marys Convent, South Washington
Street, celebrates 50th anniversary as a nun . . . Rev. Dr. and Mrs.
Ebenezer Flack observe their 50th wedding anniversary in Florida.
28.  Root Transfer warehouse destroyed by fire and furniture of more
than 100 families lost - value set at more than $300,000.
29.  Pennsylvania Highway Department promises new bridge for Plymouth
after war ends . . . Lt. Thomas F. Gill admitted to practice law in
Luzerne County Courts . . . Scranton assured of getting rayon plant to
employ between 200 and 300.
30.  Lackawanna Railroad announces appointment of Edward F. Sheerin,
Kingston, as yardmaster at Kingston . . . Guy W. Moore, Kingston, former
general manager of the Record, celebrates 76th birthday. 
31.  Jenkins Township School Board members sentenced to various terms in
Luzerne County Prison . . . Central Railroad of New Jersey announces
distribution of back pay wages retroactive from past year.

APRIL
1.  New accounting system put into effect at Wilkes-Barre City Hall.
2.  Series of parking meter robberies solved with the arrest of two
juveniles . . . Fifth War Loan goat set at $16 billion.
3.  Red Cross War Fund campaign draws to close with total of 104 per
cent of the original quota . . . P. J. Kaiser, mechanical engineer of
Glen Alden Coal Company retires . . . Lillian R. Wallace, city,
completes 50 years of service in Post Office.
4.  Rev. Dr. George M. Bell retires as minister in Wyoming Conference .
. . Frank E. Parkhurst succeeds late father as director of Miners
National Bank.
5.  Three trusties escape from Luzerne County Prison . . . Mr. and Mrs.
Edmund Evans, West Pittston, celebrate 50th wedding anniversary . . .
Annual Easter horse parade canceled due to war conditions.
6.  Michael Markowitz named national field secretary of American Legion
. . . Military orders cut down on Easter flowers . . . Three men who
escaped from Luzerne County prison recaptured by city police.
7.  Dr. John L. Dorris, Nanticoke rescues daughter and three playmates
from fire-swept playroom . . . Former valley residents returning via bus
and railroads for Easter crowd traveling facilities.
8.  Raiker Paint Factory, Kingston gutted by fire with estimated loss
set at $25,000.
9.  Easter Sunday - weather cloudy but churches report services well
attended.
10.  Luzerne County property valuation shows sharp decline as compared
with 1943 . . . Wilkes-Barre Police hold annual ball with hundreds of
friends in attendance.
11.  Bishop E. G. Richardson announces his retirement to become
effective at Wyoming Conference sessions . . . Selective Service orders
miners between the ages of 22-25 to be deferred from the draft in effort
to relieve manpower shortages.
12.  Kingston Methodist Church host to Wyoming Conference . . . 200 tons
of culm needed to fill mine cave under Pittston home.
13.  Shipments of anthracite show decrease . . . Commander Edward J.
Burke, Wilkes-Barre, awarded Legion of Merit for outstanding duty as
commanding officer of destroyer during Salerno invasion.
14.  Rev. Thomas VanLoon, Kingston, ordained at Methodist Conference . .
. Four persons overcome by gas in Forty Fort home.
15.  Visiting minister at Wyoming Conference has serious auto accident
on Wyoming Avenue, Kingston.
16.  Rev. Samuel J. Truscott assigned to Dorranceton Church and Rev.
Joseph Pennell returned to Forty Fort Methodist . . . Lehigh Valley
Railroad Company purchases 1,150 cars.
17.  Governer Edward Martin addresses Pennsylvania Federation of Labor
convention at Hotel Sterling . . . Rev. E. A. Dowey, Dunmore, named
moderator of Lackawanna Presbytery.
18.  Eugene Lazarus, Dallas, elected president of Wilkes-Barre Rotary
Club . . . Guthrie School, North Washington Street, closed because of
bulging interior walls . . . Chamber of Commerce names nine to board of
directors.
19.  Rev. Harold Diesher, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church, city,
elected president of Evangelical Lutheran Conference.
20.  The Neighborhood Club, city, celebrates 30th birthday anniversary .
. . Merger of Evangelical and Reformed Churches cancelled for a period
of two years.
21.  State Federation of Labor concludes convention in city by endorsing
Roosevelt
for fourth term.
22.  Meyers High School Draft Board calls 141 men to take examinations,
making this one of the largest delegations to be inducted in the city .
. . Six of seven Namey sons of High Street, city, are serving in the
armed forces.
23.  Voting at primary elections to be light, according to registrations
. . . Relief in Luzerne County declines . . . Susquehanna River shows
slight rise from incessant showers.
24.  Lehigh Valley passenger train rams bus, splitting it in two at
Rozelle Park,
N. J.
25.  Only 30 per cent of registration eligible to vote in dull primary
poll . . . Susquehanna River rise checked as rain halts.
26.  Plymouth bank clerk arrested for embezzling bank funds amounting to
$7,200 . . . Temple Israel loses Rabbi Benjamin Krietman, who enlisted
as a chaplain in the Navy.
27.  Portions of Duryea's main street drop into mine pit 15 feet deep.
This is the third cave in that vicinity in the past month.
28.  Mercy Hospital graduates 1944 class of 34 nurses at ceremony at
Meyers High School . . . Capt. J. Justin Blewitt reappointed assistant
district attorney after being honorably discharfed from Army. 
29.  Shriners parade previous to ceremonial at which 67 novices are
inducted . . . Senator A. J. Sordoni announces the purchase of the
Americus Hotel at Allentown to be added to his chain of hotels.
30.  Scarcity of fire fighters blamed for the serious spread of forest
fires in nearby mountains.

MAY
1.  Warm weather spurs Victory Garden workers . . . Lt. Commander A. L.
Grohowski, native of Sugar Notch, receives Presidential citation for
work in caring for wounded Marines on Guadalcanal.
2.  Forest fires destroys home on East End Boulevard and threaten 30
other buildings . . . Eastern League baseball season opens at Artillery
Park, the Barons playing Scranton.
3.  Young Men's Chamber of Commerce elects Fred Woolbert as president .
. . All meats become ration-free, except choice beef roasts and steaks.
4.  Capt. A. A. Nicholson, World War Veteran, addresses Kiwanis Club on
faith and courage as a secret weapon . . . Midsumer heat continues as
thermometer registers 89 degrees . . . Forest fires continue to rage
over 500 acres of valley mountains.
5.  Attorney Herman J. Goldberg, juddge advocate at Camp Reynolds,
Greenville, Pa,  promoted to rank of Major . . . Plymouth Township hit
by mine cave that affects 30 homes in the Curry Hill Section.
6.  Serious forest fires halted by heavy rains.
7.  Four local men reported missing in action. Another is a prisoner of
war.
8.  Printers of the Wilkes-Barre Publishing Company fail to report for
work . . . Body of Joseph Lukovitz, with $515 in cash in his pockets,
found at bottom of Hoyt Shaft, Pennsylvania Coal Company, where he had
evidenly fallen . . . Six local men reported missing or wounded in
various war theaters . . . Prof. J. R. Merkel wills collection of Indian
relics to Muhlenberg College, Allentown . . . Wilkes-Barre Conference of
Luther Leagues names officers . . . Board of Health starts examination
of restaurants, hotels, taverns desireing renewal of liquor licenses.
9.  No report given.
10.  Seven men are reported missing, five wounded in action in war.
11.  General Hospital School of Nursing graduates 50 young women . . .
Court directs judgment of ouster be entered against Warren F. Zehner,
who was seated as a school director in Black Creek Township last
December and awards office to Andrew Enama . . . 3,000 employes of
anthracite region mills of Duplan Silk Company go out on strike.
12.  Mine workers asked by district officials to work on Memorial Day,
usually a holiday . . . Harold S. Buttman of Plymouth and Gertrude
Schappert, city, Red Cross workers, arrive in Australia.
13.  Frank Marone, 42, and his son, Leonard. 16. East Foster Township,
drowned when boat capsizes in Mt. Olympus Dam, near White Haven.
14.  John Marchak, Dupont, killed by Lehigh Valley freight at Dupont.
15.  Guthrie School reopens after being closed for a month because walls
moved from steel girders . . . 43rd convention of Degree of Pocohontas
opens in Hotel Redington . . . Six local men reported missing in action
in war . . . Local brewery workers vote to continue at jobs.
16.  Former Councilman William B. Houser named sealer of weights and
measures by Mayor Con McCole . . . Four local men reported missing in
action, two prisoners of war.
17.  Sheriff David Vaughn, Nanticoke, unanimously reelected Luzerne
County Republican chairman for third term . . . Allan P. Kirby and
Frederick J. Weckesser elected for three-year terms by F. W. Woolworth
Company . . . Settlement of dispute between brewery owners and employees
dispels threat of beer drought in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
18.  Sawmill owned by Ruggles Lumber Company of Kingston destroyed by
fire.
19.  Two local men finish at West Point . . .  Rev. Joseph S. Gagion
appointed to pastorate of St. Ignatius Church, Kingston.
20.  Printers of the Wilkes-Barre Publishing Company return to work
after 11 days of idleness.
21.  Six Plymouth youths injured in auto accident on Plymouth Mountain .
. . Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree given to Rev. J. Holland
Crompton, Kingston, superintendent of Wilkes-Barre district of Wyoming
Conference of the Methodist Church.
22.  Duplan Silk Mills resume work after two weeks' strike . . . Thomas
Klett, 14, of Forty Fort takes golfing honors at Wyoming Valley Country
Club . . . Margaret Wood, Kingston, named captain of Red Cross
Clubmobile in England.
23.  Bucknell Junior College announces plans for a four-year college,
funds to be raised in Wyoming Valley . . . William R. Smith,
Wilkes-Barre, personal pilot for Lt. Gen. Ira C. Eaker, promoted to
major.
24.  Joseph J. Ashberger, Wilkes-Barre, named district director for
county Eagles . . . Mayor Con McCole presents Mrs. Stella Warner with
Mariner's Award conferred on her son, Frank Warner, killed in action -
the first local public presentation of the present war.
25.  Wilkes-Barre City School Board fails to grant increase to teachers
. . . Wilkes-Barre Induction Station assumes responsibility of screening
selectees as Allentown Induction Center closes.
26.  Employees of General Aviation Equipment Company return to work
after walk-out . . . Scranton Diocese reports 52,986 Catholics in the
armed forces.
27.  Dr. Joseph Miller, guidance director in Wilkes-Barre city schools,
appointed director of Child Study Institute at Toledo, Ohio.
28.  Various veteran organizations hold Memorial Day services and
parades . . . Servicemen and civilian passengers stranded by Greyhound
bus strike.
29.  City council unable to show good reason for dismissal of Edward
Harkins, captain of police . . . Woodrow Kaufer, Wilkes-Barre, awaits
call into the armed service thereby making the total number of 10 in the
family serving in the Army and Navy - six brothers and three
brothers-in-law.
30.  Memorial holiday marked with many services conducted by military
organizations . . .  Anthracite production suffers as holiday keeps
workers away from mines.
21.  Attorney Louis Shaffer appointed assistant district attorney . . .
Frank Burnside, local merchant, receives commission in the Navy.

JUNE
1.  Rev. Jule Ayers formally installed as pastor of First Presbyterian
Church of Wilkes-Barre with services conducted by Lackawanna Presbytery.
2.  Record heat wave sends many residents to summer homes . . . Strike
of 6,500 employees of American Car and Foundry Company of Berwick
terminated.
3.  Mr. and Mrs. James A. Robinson of Wilkes-Barre celebrate their 50th
wedding anniversary . . . Dr. Samuel P. Mengel honored by Pennsylvania
Medical Soiety for having served 50 years in the medical profession.
4.  Two hundred persons answer Red Cross call for blood donors at
American Red Cross headquarters . . . YMCA celebrates its 100th
anniversary.
5.  No report given.
6.  Residents throng to churches to pray as invasion of European
continent by Allied armies commences.
7.  Very Rev. Joseph S. Gagion installed as pastor of St. Ignatius
Church at Kingston.
8.  Wyoming Valley suffers the coldest June day in the past 10 years . .
. Overseas mail resumed after interruption prior to the European
invasion . . . Wilkes-Barre police force left with 22 vacancies.
9.  Wilkes-Barre's donation to the cruiser "Wilkes-Barre" will be five
steel cabinet phonograph sets and 500 records for the men and officers
of the ship . . . Miners Mills street closed due to mine cave.
10.  Joseph Ashberger retained as treasurer for the Fraternal Order of
Eagles.
11. Bishop O'Connor presents diplomas and honors to 53 graduates of St.
Mary's High School, city.
12. Fifth War Loan Drive officially opened by volunteer canvassers . . .
Major Clark E. Kirkendall, Wapwallopen, promoted to the rank of
Lieutenant Colonel in United States Army.
13. Mayor Con McCole refuses to sign new city ordinance reorganizing
police bureau and doing away with the position of captain of police.
14.  GAR High School graduates 180 at afternoon exercise . . .  Firemen
and auxiliaries hold convention at Plymouth . . . Meyers High School
graduating class numbers 228.
15.Kingston High School graduates 212 . . .  Pittston native, Vice
Admiral John H. Newton, becomes new commander of Allied forces in the
South Pacific.
16.  No report given.
17.  Merle Bolen, reported missing, surprises family and returns home .
. . Fire at Duryea makes three families homeless, damage is estimated at
$20,000.
18.  United Spanish War Veterans unveil service flag honoring 70 sons
and daughters serving the country . . . Freak storm hits valley, damage
is extensive.
19.  Volunteer workers canvass city to secure names of men and women in
armed services making voting possible in next election . . . City
Council fails to appoint citiy treasurer to fill vacancy caused by death
of Fred Goeringer, Jr., and city employees go payless.
20.  Two valley men reported wounded, presumably of the first day of the
invasion of the European continent by the Allied armies.
21.  War Bond headquarters announces that 22 per cent of goal is reached
as drive opens its 10th day . . . Majority of city council fails in
third attempt to name a city treasurer . . . U. S. Navy recruits 16
apprentice seamen to serve in the Waves.
23.  John V. Heffernan of Kingston appointed managing editor of United
Mine Workers Journal . . . Six Luzerne County men rank high in service -
they are Admiral Harold R. Stark, Vice-Admiral John H. Newton, Lt. Gen.
George Grunert, Major Gen. John F. Williams, Brig. Gen. Milton Orme
Boone, and Commodore Oscar Smith . . . Captain W. R. A. Boben,
Wilkes-Barre physician, awarded Soldier's Medal for bravery in India . .
. Two sailors on leave drown in Susquehanna River at Plymouth.
23.  City Council still deadlocked on selection of Treasurer.
24.  Tom E. Williams director of Bureau of Vital Statistics, dismissed
at Harrisburg.
25. Rev. Charles E. Carroll, pastor of Parrish Street Methodist Church,
resigns pastorate due to ill health.
26.  Fred Goeringer, Sr., elected treasurer by city council after a
17-day deadlock . . . Body of Albert Wampole, sailor drowned in river at
Plymouth, recovered at Espy, near Bloomsburg.
27.  Nine men from local area reported wounded in action . . . Nanticoke
boy, aged 3. suffocated by sand slide as two older brothers are rescued
. . . Fred Goeringer, Sr., sworn into office as city treasurer.
28.  Five young girls, ranging from 8 to 15 years of age, drowned in
Susquehanna River at Exeter, making 10 drownings in vicinity . . .
Wyoming Valley suffers from heat wave with temperature hovering between
90 and 95 degrees.
29.  Two Avoca boys killed by Lackawanna train near Binghamton, N. Y. .
. . Seven persons injured in street car crash on Ashley bridge . . .
Heat wave broken by severe thunderstorm . . . Senator James J. Davis
speaks at Veterans of Foreign Wars convention.
30. Cruiser "Wilkes-Barre" commissioned at Philadelphia with limited
delegation witnessing ceremony . . . Mine subsidence in Plains wrecks
two homes.

JULY
1. Weekend holiday travel to and from Wyoming Valley reaches record peak
as facilities are taxed beyond capacity.
2.  Rev. William W. Rosser accepts call to Welsh Congregational Church
at Plymouth.  
3.  Two local men reported killed and three are missing in action,
according to the War Department . . . Two Wyoming Valley boys killed by
hit-run driver near Montrose as they prepare to attend the Montrose
Bible Conference.
4.  Wyoming Valley observes safe and sane holiday . . . Shavertown girl
dies as a result of auto accident on Dallas highway.
5.  City girl dies and companion is severely injured after being struck
by automobile as they walked in Larksville  , , , Kingston American
Legion installs servicemen's shelters at Kingston.
6.  General Aviation plant and Nottingham Colliery declare "holiday" . .
. Breslau bridge shows depreciation as State and County disagree on
responsibility for repairs.
7.  New home of American Legion Post, 132, on North River Street is
dedicated  . . . Approximately 25,000 in service are registered to
receive military ballots . . . Nottingham Colliery and General Aviation
plant resume work . . . Air Wac Show opens. 
8.  Eighteen servicemen listed as killed, missing, and wounded and three
others are reported prisoners of war.
9.  Plymouth Mill and Grain Company destroyed by fire with loss
estimated at
$100,000.
10.  Two central city stores robbed  - thieves, believed to be
professionals,
are still at large . . . Six key officials of Scranton district OPA
office removed from office.
11.  Eugene Lazarus elected president of Wilkes-Barre Rotary Club . . .
Pittston youth drowned in Susquehanna River at Exeter near spot where
five young girls drowned . . . Continued warm weather keeps farmers
worrying about parched crops as residents of city swelter.
12.  Severe wind and electric storm sweeps Wyoming Valley causing
considerable damage in various sections.
13.  Dr. Frank M. Pugliese, Wilkes-Barre
promoted to rank of Lieutenant Colonel at overseas base . . . Lt. Col.
M. L. Sheppeck, native of Alden, named second in command at new large
Army Hospital at Richmond, Va.  . . . First Hospital Emergency unit
organized at General Hospital with Dr. M. C. Rumbaugh as director.
 14.  Wilkes-Barre City Treasurer's office remains closed as council
refuses to release late treasurer, Fred Goeringer, Jr., from bond.
15.  Ten business men cited for OPA violations . . . Anthracite
shipments show increase . . . OPA mailing  center opens in Heights Bank
building.
16.  Inspector on Central Railroad loses life as gasoline car burns at
Mountain Top
. . . Four persons injured in attempt to flee fire on Georgetown street
car . . . Scranton area damaged by 54-mile-hour wind and rainstorm.
17.  Fred Brokenshire, Sr., elected Kingston Burgess, succeeding the
late Lewis S. Reese.
18.  Robert C. Miner named to direct
Communitiy Welfare Campaign in valley .
. . Six officials of district OPA office
suspended . . . Valley menaced by
Japanese beetle.
19.  Attorney John C. Phillips of Wilkes-Barre dismissed as Warrior Run
Borough solicitor and is succeeded by Attorney Daniel Flood.
20.  Michael Conway of Hanover Township is named to Prison Board to
succeed the late James McKeown as secretary . . . Three servicemen are
killed and 10 others wounded in reports from United States War
Department.
21.  American Legion gains 248 members from recent campaign . . . Fire
Department plans to record voices in effort to halt false alarms . . .
Wilkes-Barre School District opens tax office in Union Street School.
22.  Irem Temple holds outdooor ceremonial at which 136 men are received
into membership.
23.  Twenty-five men from local area on casualty lists-three killed,
three wounded, and 15 missing . . . Mr. and Mrs. Albert Hendershot of
Luzerne celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
24.  Two men lose their lives in fall of cage at Huber Colliery, both of
Glen Alden Coal Company.
25.  City tax collection office reopens after being closed for six weeks
following the death of the collector, the late Fred Goeringer, Jr.
26.  Twenty-seven Pennsylvania Anthracite companies fined on charges of
conspiring to fix prices . . . War Department reports 19 casualties-six
killed in action, 12 wounded and one missing.
27.  G. Reuling Davis appointed  United States Commissioner for local
area . . .
State Police say they cleared up 105 robberies in vicinity with the
arrest of escaped mental patient from Bangor, Maine.
28.  Rev. William B. Gritman appointed to pastorate at Parrish Street
Methodist Church.
29.  No report given.
30.  United States Waves celebrate second birthday with local recruiting
office holding party at Irem Temple.
31.  Murray Plant goes on seven-day working week to speed production of
wings for new B-29 Superfortresses . . .
Two men are killed and 17 injured in action, War Department discloses.

August
1.  Eight fatalities and five wounded are reported by War Department . .
. OPA mailing center in Heights Bank Building has territory expanded,
taking in work from Scranton and Stroudsburg.
2.  Pennsylvania State Guard mobilized to await orders to go to
Philadelphia to restore order in Philadelphia transit strike.
3.  Luzerne home destroyed by fire with loss estimated at $6,000 . . .
John J. P. Dunn of Forty Fort promoted to director of farm engineering
with the State Farm Security Administration.
4.  Wyoming Valley suffers hottest August 4 in 14 years as temperature
climbs to 96 degrees . . . Tudor F. Griffith presented with 30-year
scroll for service with Prudential Insurance Company.
5.  Nine soldiers are killed, six are missing and 19 are wounded in list
of War Department . . . Sugar Notch native, John J. ODonnell, awarded
the Silver Star, posthumously, for bravery.
6.  Wyoming Valley gets relief from torrid wave that lasted
approximately two weeks . . . Edwardsville youth saved from drowning at
Harveys Lake . . . Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Pierce Oliver of Kingston
celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
7.  Luzerne County fails to meet fifth War Loan quota by $3 million . .
. Announcement is made by commissioners of Luzerne and Lackawanna
Counties that both are prepared to do their part in Avoca airport
project.
8.  Fred Brokenshire, Sr., Kingston's new burgess, feted at testimonial
at Irem Temple Country Club . . . Luzerne County Commissioners award
contract for repairs to Breslau span pier at cost of $18,375.
9.  Leonard D. Henry, Plymouth, is promoted to rank of Lieutenant
Colonel at West Point Military Academy . . . Rev. Aloyius McElwee 19th
priest in Scranton Diocese to become chaplain.
10.  Seventeen local men on latest casualty list-three killed, four
misssing, and 11 wouunded.
11.  Casualties in Wyoming Valley continue to mount with 11 killed, five
missing, and 11 wounded . . . Thomas Nolan, city detective, resigns
after 30 years as a member of the police force . . . Mercury hits year's
top of 97 degrees with no immediate relief in view.
12.   With no promise of relief in sight, mercury climbs to new high of
99 degrees as crowds throng to lakes and pools in attempt to find escape
from heat.
13.  Due to increase in freight traffic, Central Railroad increases
employees by 36 to do heavy repair work at Ashley shops . . . Seven more
soldiers from local region are killed in action.
14.  Cooling winds, following sharp thunderstorm offers slight relief
from heat wave . . . Six hundred delegates attend convention of Knights
of Pythias at Hotel Sterling . . . Long drought endangers county crops .
. . Wyoming Valley nurses are recruited for duty at State Hospital at
Blossburg to help fight spread of infantile paralysis.
15.  Dr. Emory Lutes appointed food inspector at meeting of Wilkes-Barre
City Council.
16.  Six persons injured when automobile smashes into street car at St.
Mary's Road in Hanover Township . . . Knights of Pythias concludes
three-day convention in city.
17.  Joseph S. McCracken of Kingston is elected commander of District 12
of American Legion . . . Falling rock from nearby  slopes kills
16-year-old swimmer from White Haven as he swims in the Lehigh River.
18.  Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board cites seven local proprietors for
violations . . . Bruce Payne, local coal operator, and F. E. Parkhurst,
Jr., are selected as Community Welfare Drive aides.
19.  T. Newell Wood, of Harvey's Lake is elected vice president of
Kingston National Bank and Charles E. Warsaw, general manager of Luzerne
County Gas and Electric Company, is elected to board of directors . . .
Twenty-one freight cars on Lehigh Valley railroad are derailed at
Lockwood, N. Y.
20. Building used for storing junk and scrap on Baltimore Street
consumed by fire.
21.  James G.Meighan of Wilkes-Barre appointed deputy grand ruler of
Elks in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
22.  Laura P. Huber assumes post as general secretary of YWCA . . . Red
Cross makes plea for additional blood donors . . . Mortgage foreclosed
on Hotel Jermyn, one of the Sterling chain.
23.  Fifteen local men killed and four wounded on various war fronts.
24.  First infantile paralysis victim in Luzerne County dies at
Nanticoke State Hospital . . . Wilkes-Barre City and other local
communities make plans for special observances of the day the war in
Europe ends.
25.  Casualties continue to grow as seven are reported killed, and 16
others wounded or missing.
26.  Election Bureau mails 8,000 ballots to servicemen.
27.  Senator Andrew J. Sordoni announces opening of Fram Filter and
Mason Can Companies at Johnson Engineering Company; the new industry to
employ approximately 300 persons.
28.  Record heat wave of early August changes to unusual cold spell and
mercury drops to 48 degrees in nearbiy mountains . . . Local district of
Mine Workers announces that 7,500 members are serving their country.
29.  Portion of Ashley bypass opened . . . Joseph H. MacVeigh, president
of Chamber of Commerce, adddresses West Side Lions Club . . . Col.
Thomas H. Atherton named head of V-Day program . . . Lt. J. J. Gildea
completes 130 missions over enemy territory.
30.  John T. Rowlands resigns supervision of Warrior Run Schools . . .
George N. Starks resigns as executive director of American Red Cross . .
. Lt. Col. Joseph A. Kielty, former resident, awarded Silver Star for
gallantry.
31.  Bus and railroad companies prepare for record holiday travel . . .
Weather reports for month of August show a peak of 101 degrees . . .
Five visiting Australian flyers are entertained by USO.

SEPTEMBER
1.  Election bureau of Luzerne County mails 25,046 ballots to men in
armed forces with 7.000 additional to be mailed at a later date . . .
State Highway Department assumes responsibility of part of Blackman
Street in the ciiy as a connecting road to new Ashleiy By-Pass.
2.  Three local sevicemen driving to Wilkes-Barre for the holiday are
killed in auto crash near Hazleton.
3.  Railroads and bus companies handle highly-increased travel to and
from Wyoming Valley.
4.  Labor Day is well named for this year as local plants and mines
forfeit the usual holiday . . . Several slight earth tremors startle
residents of Wyoming Valley . . . Pulsations were felt along Eastern
Seaboard and several inland states.
5.  Many schools in local area resume studies.
6.  Four local men are among first prisoners to be released by Romanian
government after Russians entered that country . . . Luzerne County and
Wilkes-Barre City school teachers hold institutes prior to opening of
schools.
7.  Two additional polio cases reported in city  . . . Serious shortage
of rubber evident with the ration boards stopping the issuing of tire
applications.
8.  Kingston school board appoints seven teachers to fill vacancies . .
. T. M. B. Hicks, Jr., resigns as commissioner of Wyoming Valley
Industrial Fund, Inc.
9.  Rev. George H. Phillips commences his eighth year as pastor of First
Methodist Church in the city.
10.  Lack of rain causes serious drought and crop spoilage.
11. Stephen J. Tkach reappointed treasurer of County Republicans . . .
Col. Ernest G. Smith and Mrs. J. Howell Williams are appointed by
Civilian Defense Council to prepare for formal recognition of V-Day.
  12.  Reuben H. Levy elected commander of Kingston Post of American
Legion  . . . Alfred G. Winters resigns as director of Children's
Service Center and is succeeded by Dr. J. F. Robinson . . . Three local
couples, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Townend of Wyoming, Mr. and Mrs. D. E.
Husted of Shavertown;, and Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Honeywell of Kingston,
celebrate wedding anniversaries totaling 160 years.
13.  Robert M. Miller renamed secretary of County Republicans.
14. Hook and ladder truck gets out of control on Northampton Street hill
while answering a false alarm . . . Local man arrested and treasury
balance lottery stubs totaling $16,000 are confiscated . . . Anthracite
coal output for month of August shows increase.
15.  Bucknell Junior College sets up dormitory in former Weckesser home
on West Northampton Street . . .  Mrs. Carl A. Spaatz, wife of Lt. Gen.
Carl A. Spaatz, addresses Nurses' Aides at dinner . . . Women of Moose
celebrate tenth anniversary.
16.YMCA opens annual membership drive with Dr. Carl E. Hontz as general
chairman . . . Approximately 25 Army veterans return from overseas under
new Army rotation plan.
17.  Jewish residents celebrate Rosh Hashana with services in local
synagogues.
18.  Five men wounded in explosion at Loomis Colliery of Glen Alden Coal
Company . . . Office of Civilian Defense opens canning center at Ashley
. . . Local boy reported lost at sea during hurricane.
19.  John Guest elected commander of Wilkes-Barre Post, 132, American
Legion . . . Bennett Memorial Church celebrates 50th anniversary . . .
Women's Army Corps opens new enlistment campaign.
20.  Governor John W. Bricker, Republican nominee for Vice President,
speaks to 10,000 persons in Kingston Armory . . . Guy Walker, city
engineer, honored by American Public Works Association at Minnesota . .
. Mr. and Mrs. John Ney celebrate 45th wedding anniversary-Mr.Ney is
veteran employee of Record composing room.
21. Former local lawyers, Attorneys Thomas A. Farrell and A. P. Conniff,
cited by Washington Law Reporter for subject of legal paper . . .  Eric
James Elliott named OPA director at Scranton . . . Gertrude Ash named
temporary executive director of American Red Cross.
22.  Second Welsh Presbyterian Church of Wilkes-Barre celebrates its
70th anniversary . . . Harold Flack of Dallas is named lieutenant
governor of Kiwanis in Pennsylvania District . . . Central Railroad
worker killed when run down by engine in tunnel near White Haven . . .
Workers at American Car and Foundry Company stage holiday over vacation
pay.
23.  Lehigh Valley Railroad erects huge service flag at Wilkes-Barre
station with a total of 2.306 blue stars . . . Anthracite production for
local area shows increase.
24.  Mine cave damages homes, church and school at Ashley . . . Wyoming
Valley suffers first frost as mercury drops to 34 degrees . . .
Infantile paralysis cases continue to  mount as Lee Park youth is
stricken . . . Commander William T. Kinsella of Wilkes-Barre is awarded
the Navy Cross for heroism in line of duty at Pacific base.
26.  Pennsylvania Power and Light Company promotes two local executives- 
G. M.  Keenan to chief engineer and J. M. Stedman to replace Mr. Keenan
as general manager . . . Jewish holiday begins with services in local
synagogues.
26. (Cont'd) Pittston child is victim of polio . . . Greyhound bus
collides with milk truck at Factoryville killing two persons and
injuring 21 others . . . Post Office Department observes "Christmas" as
boxes for men and women in service overseas flood local office . . .
Luzerne County Commissioners receive priority from Federal Government to
start Avoca Airport . . . J. B. Carr Biscuit company to erect two-story
addition at a cost of $21,000/
27.  Vice President Henry A. Wallace speaks to large audience at Irem
Temple . . . Class of 13 nurses is graduated from Homeopathic Hospital
with exercises in St. Stephen's Parish House.
28.  Rev. Lester Guier, superintendent of Wilkes-Barre District of Free
Methodist Churches, is transferred to Kingston, New York . . . Units are
formed for 1944 Community Welfare drive.
29.  Hotel Jermyn at Scranton is sold to Pick Hotel Corporation of
Chicago . . . Rev. H. G. Roushey begins pastorate at Free Methodist
Church in the city.
30.  Body of Edward Watts, former member of State Legislature who had
been missing from home since March 18, is recovered in West Hazleton
mountains . . . O. R. Mullison, manager of Wilkes-Barre district of
American Stores Company, is honored by associates as he completes 20
years of service with that company.

OCTOBER
1.  Weather shows signs of fall and winter as mercury falls to 38
degrees . . . Three churches celebrate anniversaries of their
foundings-Calvary Episcopal observes its 50th-Laurel Run Primitive
Methodist Church its 60th and Parsons Baptist Church its 75th.
2.  Two persons injured as two trucks and car collide in Wyoming . . .
Casualties in Wyoming Valley continue to mount as three are reported
killed, two missing and five are wounded.
3.  Driver of Hazleton autobus averts accident on Ashley Planes by
steering bus into bank as brakes fail . . . Hazleton City asks county
appropriation for new airport.
4.  Gomer Griffiths, with 30 years' service as an officer of Spanish War
Veterans, is appointed to staff of national commander . . . Several
citiy properties sold at auction at Hotel Sterling-the largest sale
being that of the Terminal Hotel, East Market Street, to Milner Hotel
Company . . . YMCA enlists 1,043 new members in campaign.
5.  Officers of American Legion Post, 132, installed at ceremonies in
Hotel Sterling . . . Kiwanis Club recognizes Wilkes-Barre newspapers at
luncheon meeting in keeping with "Newspaper Week" . . . Nanticoke woman
is shot by father after argument.
6.  Wilkes-Barre City School District cuts registration for night
school.
7.  Severe storm sweeps valley and utility services are disrupted in
various sections of the county.
8.  Three persons die in week end accidents . . . Bethel Baptist Church,
city, dedicates pipe organ with special programs.
9.  Voters' registration shows considerable increase over total in 1943
. . . Kingston Post of American Legion seats officers.
10.  Community Welfare Drive begins with mass meeting of workers and
donors on Public Square . . .Henry L. Jones of Wilkes-Barre promoted to
rank of Colonel . . . Four persons injured as truck upsets on East End
Boulevard.
11.  Edward J. Evans, retired vice president of Kingston National Bank,
honored at testimonial dinner  . . . Five persons aroused from sleep by
a United States Marine and taxi driver are saved from near tragedy as
their apartment burns . . . Kingston man killed in action makes fifth in
family on war casualty list-there being five cousins, three of whom were
killed and two wounded . . . Twenty-five tons of condemned meat foiund
in local provision plant, the second consignment found unfit within two
weeks.
12.  Four-year-old city child killed when cigaret machine falls on her .
. . Wilkes-Barre and Scranton newspapermen tour Murray Corporation plant
at Scranton . . . Rev. Chester Evans resigns pastorate at Second Welsh
Presbyterian Church . . . SS Joseph Murgas launched at Savannah in
memory of Wilkes-Barre priest who patented the tone system of wireless
telegraphy.
13.  FBI agents arrest three additional   city men involved in theft of
government-owned cigarets stored in Penn Tobacco Company warehouse.
14.  Shipments of anthracite  for month of September show increase . . .
Mrs. Kermit Roosevelt, addresses Democratic women
at Hotel Sterling.
15.  Trucksville Methodist Church celebrates its 100th anniversary . . .
Earl Green, merchant seaman, arrested by FBI agents for posing as Navy
officer . . . Wilkes-Barre Lodge of Moose holds testimonial dinner for
George E. Gwilliam, supreme governor.
16.  No report given.
17.  West Side Lions Club initiates eight members . . . Community
Welfare drive reaches half-way mark with 48 per cent of the goal reached
. . . Latest war casualty list lists 12 men as fatalities . . .
Selective Service Boards start reclassifiying men over 38 years.
18.  Seventeen cadet nurses graduated from Nesbitt Memorial Hospital . .
. William T. Bennett, Jr., head of Georgetown Settlement, retires to
accept position with YMCA at Rochester, N. H.  . . . St. Barnabas
Nurses' Guild celebrates its 20th anniversary.
19.  Congressman Thomas Byron Miller returns from tour of England which
he termed a semi-official visit . . . Luzerne County Committee of
American Legion seats officers with Joseph McCracken being installed as
district commander.
20.  Nanticoke youth, who died on October 28, determined a victim of
carbon monoxide poisoning-mother and brother recovering in Nanticoke
hospital . . . Boy Scout cottage on mountain is burglarized . . .
Wilkes-Barre City asks for an additional nurse at Contagious Hospital
because of increase in the number of patients suffering from polio and
meningitis.
21.  Maj. Harry Prentiss, former city fireman, is placed on inactive
list by Army.
22.  OPA cites 17 gas stations in Scranton District for violations of
rationing regulations.
23.  Margaret Kunkle, 70, burned to death as fire destroys farmhouse at
Kunkle . . . Wilkes-Barre Fire Department reports 18th false alarm since
January 1.
24.  Various organizations hold exercises at Forty Fort meeting house to
celebrate William Penn Tercentenary.
25.  Former Governor Pinchot speaks at Irem Temple . . . Community War
Chest raises $7,600 more than its goal, the total sum being the highest
ever contributed . . . Three valley men reported on Carrier Princeton
which was sunk in naval engagement in the Pacific.
26.  Junior Cambrian Club celebrates its 10th anniversary . . .  Net
income of Lehigh Valley Raiload shows decline for month of September.
27.  Women of Moose run city government for day with Mrs. Arleen K.
Hampel as acting mayor . . . Pennsylvania
Railroad conductor awarded hero's award posthumously for saving lives of
three children who ran into the path of a fast moving freight train-the
award being made by Carnegie Hero Fund Commission . . . 900 workers call
strike at Lance Colliery of Glen Alden Coal Company.
28.  John W. Young, national president of Order of Eagles, presides at
initiation meeting in this city . . . Sixteen valley contractors of
women's apparel cited by OPA for violations of Price Control Act.
29.  Railroad YMCA at Coxton Yards destroyed by fire with loss estimated
at $50,000 . . . Seven persons injured when auto crashes into span of
South Main Street bridge in Hanover Township . . . James Hizney, aged 7,
burned to death as Halloween costume is ignited by candle of pumpkin
lantern.
30.  Two of 21 anthracite mining operations observe Mitchell Day.
31.  Col. Ernest G. Smith elected a life trustee of Lafayette College.

NOVEMBER
1.  Governor Thomas E. Dewey, candidate for Presidency, addresses
overflow audience at Kingston Armory . . .
Hunting season and observance of Holy Day account for absenteeism in
mining industries.
2.  Thieves obtain $1,000 in cash and jewelry valued at $1,000 from
central city home  . . . Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Scott of Kingston celebrate
their 50th wedding anniversary . . . Louis Leger, salesman, is elected
president of Kiwanis Club of Wilkes-Barre.
3.  Lance Colliery of Glen Alden Coal Company ends week long strike . .
. Two persons lose lives in hunting accidents . . . Pennsylvania soldier
vote shows registration of 226,634.
4.  A total of 259 boys from Wilkes-Barre City schools are sworn into
Wilkes-Barre chapter, Junior Police . . . Road Worker at Lehman is
fatally hit by stray bullet.
5.  New home of Disabled American War Veterans in Merchant's Lane is
dedicated . . . Three local men aboard sunken Aircraft Carrier Princeton
are reported safe.
6.  Wyoming Valley suffers first taste of winter weather as mercury
drops to 36 degrees . . . Ashley Borough Council adopts resolution to
establish Mine Cave Commission . . . Dr. Philip J. Ferry of Kingston is
advanced to rank of lieutenant colonel in England.
7.  Results of general election show President Roosevelt and Democratic
party carried Luzerne county . . . Harry Adamy, Pomeroy's managing
director, addresses Rotary Club.
8.  Felix Gerard, president of Lehigh Valley Railroad, named honorary
member of Irem Temple as14  novices are inducted . . . Major John R.
Hart of Scranton is named director of Scranton District of OPA.
9.  Two West Side youths are found dead in garage in Luzerne, having
slept in trucks with motors running. . . The $35,000 bandstand in Kirby
Park is badly damaged by fire . . . Portion of North Pennsylvania Avenue
caves over workings of the Hudson Coal Company.
10.  Stanley C. Borland of Indiana, Pa,. elected executive director of
local Red Cross chapter . . . Local banks announce increases as high as
50 per cent will be paid in annual Christmas Club . . . Women's Club of
Dallas observes 12th anniversary.
11.  Murgas Day is celebrated by city to honor memory of Rev. Joseph
Murgas, who invented tone system of the wireless . . . Three men are
trapped in Franklin Mine of Pagnotti Coal Company as blasting allows
water to flood area.
12.  Armistice Day is celebrated with parade and memorial service in
Irem Temple for casualties of World War 2. Parade also marked opening of
the Sixth War Loan drive in Wilkes-Barre.
13.  No report given.
14.  Wyoming Valley Methodists join world-wide crusade as Bishop Fred P.
Corson visits local Methodist Churches for the first time since his
appointment to succeed Bishop Richardson.
15.  Alfred B. Schimmel is appointed secretary of Concordia Singing
Society . . . October shipments of anthracite show increase for month of
October.
16.  Christian Endeavor Societies convene in East End PM Church. . .
Free and Accepted Masons initiate 140 candidates.
17.  J. J. Kearney, Pittston native, named supervisor of stations for
Lehigh Valley Railroad.
18.  Edwardsville Borough adds 40 names to Honor Roll making more than
1,300 serving in the armed forces . . . Homes of 16 families damaged by
mine cave at West Avoca . . . Bodies of three men missing in Franklin
mine since November 11 are recovered.
19.  YWCA celebrates 50th anniversary of the World YWCA's organization .
. . Wayne Lance, Kingston, superintendent of Scranton-Spring Brook Water
Service Company, struck by stray bullet while visiting in Laurel Run . .
. Hyman Landau elected president of Temple Israel.
20.  Sixth War Loan drive opens in Wilkes-Barre and surrounding
communities . . . With a goal of $13,000, Wyoming Valley Tuberculosis
Society opens its annual Christmas Seal drive.
21.  William A. Rogers, Jr., Kingston, employee of Bell Telephone
Company, fatally injured when struck by a truck after alighting from a
taxicab . . . Martz Bus Company employees end day-old strike which tied
up all local buses and New York and Philadelphia lines . . . South River
Street apartment house damaged by fire with loss estimated at $20,000.
22.  Election boards start count of soldier votes.
23.  Responding to order of Federal Government miners of Luzerne County
work on Thanksgiving Day.
24.  Survey shows 681,757 Pennsylvania men inducted into the armed
forces.
25.  Official soldier count shows 58 per cent of votes for Democratic
party.
26.  Wilkes-Barre Order of Moose initiates class of 100 . . . Army
summons 11 Air Corps enlistees.
27.  Rev. P. W. Keppel installed as pastor of Stella Presbyterian Church
at Forty Fort
. . . Louis Fischer, war correspondent, author and lecturer, addresses
capacity audience at Irem Temple . . . Attorney J. G. Tomascik admitted
to Luzerne County Bar.
28.  Mr. and Mrs. H. N. Bartholomew of Forty Fort celebrate 50th wedding
anniversary . . . American Car and Foundry Company at Berwick idle due
to strike.
29.  Movie Actress Linda Darnell speaks to bond purchasers at Irem
Temple.
30.  War Bond premiere at Comerford Theater boosts Sixth War Loan ddrive
total by $360,000 . . . Snowfall and freezing temperatures make
traveling hazardous both in city and mountainous regions.

       Typed by Irene Transue,  May 2004