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Record of Local Events

Principal Happenings in Luzerne For the Year Which Began December 1, 1942, and
Ended November 30, 1943

December 1942

Dec.1st Major S. Bloch, Wilkes-Barre Induction Center officer, addresses Mancite Club at Hotel Sterling.
OPA office inable to handle all tire registrants as registering date is set back.
Home of Joseph Gumbo, Pittston, wrecked by mine subsidence.


Dec.2nd Plains High School receives banner for first place in salvage drive netting 121,030
Pounds of scrap.
Rev. John H. Blewitt leaves First Presbyterian Church, Wilkes-Barre, to accept pastorate
at Stephensville.


Dec.3rd T. R. Ybarra, noted author, lectures at College Misericordia.
OPA announces new ration books set on system of points.
City forces to borrow to meet expenses.
Biting winds whip Wyoming Valley sending mercury to 20 degrees.
Gas overcomes occupants of four Pittston homes damaged by mine cave.


Dec.4th Harry A. Lohman, Sordoni Construction Company employe, killed by exploding stove in steam shovel.


Dec.5th 2,463 in County affected by presidential order to liquidate WPA.
Rev. Wallace Pennypacker ordained a priest in Episcopal Church by Bishop F.W. Sterrett.


Dec.6th Dallas Township dedicates Honor Roll.


Dec.7th Percy A. Brown honored by friends at Hotel Sterling.
422 local draft boards receive orders to halt drafting men over 38 yrs of age.


Dec.8th Thomas A. Mackin elected president of Wilkes-Barre Board of Education.
Four city rationing boards with one Kingston board united into one office in The hotel Sterling annex.


Dec. 9th Attorney Frank P. Slattery promoted to captain in Military Police Detachment.
Underwood Colliery of Pennsylvania Coal Company ends walkout as Ewen Colliery
strike continues.


Dec.10th Heavy wet snow covers state making driving in many parts hazardous.


Dec.11th Registering of 18 year old youth begins.
Bernard Ziegler installed as Commander of United States Spanish War Veterans,
Camp 19.


Dec.12th Mayor Loveland names three appointees to police force.
Hit-run driver runs down four-year-old cousins, injuring one seriously.


Dec.13th Air raid alert while churches are in session causes much confusion.


Dec.14th Seven-inch snowfall makes roads icy and traveling treacherous.
Truck and ambulance crash and ambulance assistant seriously injured.


Dec.15th Kitsee Auto Store, North Main Street, damaged by smoke fire.
40 Red Cross Nurses’ Aides capped at exercises at Hotel Sterling.
Plains Methodist Church chooses Rev. Robert Wood as pastor.


Dec.16th Dr. Isreal J. Kazis becomes Army Chaplain reporting for duty Jan. 1, 1943.
Draft boards announces early call for 18 year olds.
Milk prices increased in local area.


Dec.17th Mr. And Mrs. James Franklin, Dallas, celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
Mercury dives to ten degrees as Valley receives new blanket of snow.


Dec.18th Dr. A.L. Grohowski, Sugar Notch doctor, promoted to lieutenant commander in
the Navy.
Steady downfall of snow makes roads slippery.


Dec.19th ”Along Life’s Highway” a collection of poems by George Z. Keller, local banker,
placed on sale in eight local stores.
OPA freezes the sale of gasoline to all motorists except commercial vehicles.


Dec.20th 13th Ward residents unveil honor roll in honor of men and women in armed forces.
Severe cold wave grips Valley as temperatures drops below zero.


Dec.21st OPA cuts gasoline coupon values and lifts ban on sale of gasoline.
Joseph Fisher, commercial artist, completes Christmas display at Luzerne County
Court House.


Dec.22nd Many accidents reported as treacherous costing of ice covers Wyoming Valley
highways
Two Wilkes-Barre residents narrowly escape death as frozen waterback in stove
explodes.


Dec.23rd Mr. And Mrs. Walter J. Broad, Edwardsville, celebrate 60th wedding anniversary.
Liquor Stores receive large shipments as holiday buying begins.


Dec.24th War Labor Board announces slary increases for Lehigh Valley Railroad shop workers.
Liquor sales in Wilkes-Barre reaches new peak.
Berwick defense worker and wife found nearly dead in gas filled trailer.
Several thousand dollars worth of wrist watches stolen from local jewelry store.


Dec.25th Red Cross delivers gifts cabled home by servicemen serving overseas.
Many accidents reported as city police spend a busy holiday.
Stegmaier Brewing Company presents war bonds to employes as holiday gifts.


Dec.26th Plans for inauguration of Pennsylvania’s Governor-elect Edward Martin held
simple due to wartime restrictions.


Dec.27th Two war mothers unveil honor roll at Ashley.
Transportation facilities taxed to capacity as holiday visitors leave Wilkes-Barre.


Dec.28th Ewen Colliery, Pennsylvania Coal Company, returns to work after three weeks’ strike.
H. M. Vivian named Red Cross Drive Director.
Ice blockade at Honesdale dynamited to prevent floods.


Dec.29th Bread slicing abandoned to prevent increase in cost.
Mine disturbance in Exeter advances in main business section.
Continuous rains cause Susquehanna River to rise to flood stage.


Dec.30th Susquehanna River rises rapidly with crest expected at 28 feet.
Several collieries of the Glen Alden Coal Company strike after increased dues are
deducted from salaries.


Dec.31st Mr. And Mrs. Joseph Ichter, Ashley, celebrate their 54th wedding anniversary.
2,500 persons evacuated from homes as Susquehanna River reaches crest of 30 feet.

January 1943

Jan.1st People of Valley spend New Year’s Day quietly visiting friends and relatives as
transportation facilities are overcrowded.
Receding river leaves a trail of damage in its wake.
Edward and George Stegmaier announce they will pay for repairs to Red Cross home give
as a memorial to their mother.


Jan.2nd American College of Surgeons announces that all valley hospitals are on their
approved list.
15 draft boards announces that ,351 teen-age youths are registered.
Retreat Mental Hospital announces that it is unable to obtain sufficient meat.


Jan.3rd American Federation of Musicians, Local 140, retains all officers for year.
Four local men take part in heavy bombing raid in Tunis and return safely to
base in England.
Cindering of ice-glazed highways resumed for fourth time in two weeks.


Jan.4th Attorney Adrian H. Jones resigns as county assessor to take new post as
State Senator from 20th district.
Sgt. Owen W. Golden, recently awarded Distinguished Flying Cross, honored at
testimonial dinner by neighbors and friends.
Four local women members of Waac made second officers.
John D. Edwards, Wyoming, named anthracite mine inspector to serve in Luzerne County
Plymouth Borough employes given 10% pay raise.


Jan.5th Cumberland Apartment Building, West Ross Street, sold to Ralph H. Peters.
Dr. Allan A, Stockdale tells Rotary Club members that post-war America is to enjoy
goods and services beyond imagination.
Six banks in Wilkes-Barre area announce that $178,750 will be paid in dividends.


Jan.6th Coal prices are boosted from 30to 55 cents a ton to allow for 6-day work week.
Milk prices raised one cent 10 15 cents.
Five mine locals ignore advice of Thomas Kennedy and decide to stay away from work.
F. H. Shafer elected president of West Side Flower Club.
7,207 aliens sworn in in two sessions at first naturalization exercises to be held in
Federal Building.
OPA ban on pleasure driving literally chases hundreds of automobiles from city streets
and highways.
Rev. Carl O. Trexler assumes duties as pastor of First Evangelical and Reformed Church.
Mrs. Richard W. Goff elected chairman of Case Work Division of Council of Social
Agencies to succeed Dr. William H. Stavisky, who entered the armed forces.


Jan.8th Capt. Joseph H. Barber named cadet recorder at local Army station.
Municipal and State Motor Police start check of all cars on highways and streets to detect
violations of OPA ban on pleasure driving.
Victory Book campaign for 1943 planned.


Jan.9th Lt. Col. C. W. Kerwood, U. S. Army, appeals to striking miners to return to work and
said that it was a request rather than a command.
Dial Rock Coal Company awarded government “A” for reducing absenteeism among
workers.


Jan.10th Sunday traffic light as most people obey OPA”s ban on pleasure driving.
16th Ward flag and honor roll dedicated in Calvary Church yard on North Main Street
Dorrance and Huber men vote to return to work.


Jan.11th Ban on pleasure driving hits parking meters as revenue falls to $586 for a week.
Rev. J. Norman Martin resigns as pastor of Luzerne Ave. Baptist Church, West Pittston.
War Labor Board and Senate investigating committee formally enter miners’ strike.
Fire mysteriously breaks out in Christmas manger at St. John’s Church, N. Main St.
and causes an estimated $500 damage.
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church celebrates its 125th anniversary.


Jan.12th Tire inspection deadline postponed one month.
Valley banks reorganize with changes being made in personnel four banks.
Final acquisition of Rickett’s Glen completed when change is made in assessment
records at Court House.
Mine strike certified to War Labor Board which demands election to be held by all locals
to determine reaction to its order that if work is not immediately resumed it will use all
its powers to terminate holiday.


Jan.13th Ten locals vote to remain out until 50 cents dues assessment dispute is settled.
Plymouth Borough cuts tax levy from 16 to 14 mills.
Edwina Eustis, mezzo-soprano, sings at Irem Temple under auspices of Community
Concert Association.
Anthracite producing companies take full page advertisement in Record to explain facts
of the mine strike.


Jan.14th General improvement noted in Country’s blackout signals during half hour air raid test.
City police take licenses of cars parked on Public Square to check on pleasure drivers.
War Labor Board calls strike leaders and owners to Washington for conference
tomorrow.


Jan.15th Frank D. Koons, Gulf Oil Company officials. Named County mileage administrator
by commissioners.
Tire appraisers report that 60 % of tires turned in are usable.
War Labor Board orders miners to abide by contract and return to work.
Luzerne County Institution District continues one mill levy as year is ended with surplus.
Bethel Congregational Church, Nanticoke closes until is able to obtain coal.


Jan.16th Mine settlements in West Pittston cause slight damage to homes on York Ave.
Ban on pleasure driving is saving about 30,000 gallons a day as sales of gasoline are
cut in half.


Jan.17th Striking miners continue holiday despite WLB order.
General alarm fire at Big Chief Candy Company, Horton Street, as stored silk stockings
and paper burn.
Capt. James Converse, Montoursville, director of X-ray at local induction station,
assigned to Philadelphia.


Jan18th WLB asks President Roosevelt to act in mine strike.
James A. Adams reelected president of Wyoming Valley Torch Club.
County realizes $21,339.97 from sale of properties taken for delinquent taxes.
Officers are elected by Hotel Sterling directors.


Jan.19th Presidential order to miners to return to work in 48 hours may be defied by some.
Gen. Edward Martin succeeds Arthur H. James as governor of Pennsylvania.
Sleet storm in mountains severely cripples utility companies lines.
County still possesses 7,500 properties after disposing of 622 at auction.


Jan.20th Most miners return to work following the directive from President Roosevelt.
Rulison Evans elected to potentate’s post of Irem Temple.
OPA begins investigation of overcharging for butter and eggs.
Mr. And Mrs. Arthur H. James feted by Plymouth Kiwanis Club.


Jan.21st Mine strike ends with last two locals to vote tomorrow.
Wyoming Valley Motor Club reports at yearly meeting that it is one of few clubs to
gain membership ion country.
Suggestion is before Wilkes-Barre School Board to close high schools at 1 so students
may help in labor shortage.
Dr. E.R. Aston elected president of Third District Dental Society of Pennsylvania at 11th
annual meeting at Westmoreland Club.


Jan.22nd Last two mine locals call of strike.
City Council considering turning off some traffic lights to speed traffic.
Mercury clings close to zero as big ice crop is harvested in mountain areas.
State Department of Commerce announces that rustic bridge will be built at Rickett’s
Glen.


Jan.23rd Harold Cruikshank installed as president of University Club.
Scranton Chamber of Commerce reports that 2,115 homes are vacant in this area.
Seventeen taxpayers of Jenkins Township file ouster proceedings against four school
directors.
Asher Miner Post, Society of 28th division, holds testimonial for General Roberts M. Vail
Gas rationing and pleasant weather bring many people out on foot.


Jan.24th Some allowance of time and one half allowed members of United Mine Workers
for 6th day work is granted while collar employes of coal companies by WLB.
Capt. John D. Mainwaring, Forty Fort native, home on furlough from New Guinea.
West Wyoming Borough dedicates honor roll.


Jan.25th Portrait of late Judge Benjamin R. Jones presented to Wilkes-Barre Law and Library Association.
Sixty motorists are summoned for hearings on abuses of OPA ruling on pleasure driving.
Army buys 300 new cars from Wyoming Valley dealers.
Hudson Coal Company ends year with a deficit of about 1/5th of previous year’s loss.


Jan.26th Dr. Wilfred H. Cook, professor at Bucknell Junior College, granted leave of absence to serve with War Labor Board.
YWCA gets five new directors at Golden anniversary meeting.
Plans for industries drive in 1943 outlined at meeting of Wyoming Valley Industrial
Development Fund meeting.


Jan27th Most Rev. Martin J. O’Conner auxiliary Roman Catholic Bishop of Scranton Diocese
and pastor of St. Mary’s Church, Wilkes-Barre, consecrated at St. Peter’s Cathedral,
Scranton.
Dr. Mary Craig and Sr. John Bruman added to faculty of Bucknell Junior College.
Three Lehigh Valley Coal Company locals agree to work 6th day.
Major W.E. Mannear added to board of directors of W-B General Hospital.


Jan.28th WLB approves raises for 96 Triangle Shoe Company employes.
Anthracite Field Club elects Philip J. O’Connel, Scranton, as president.
YMCA inaugurates “toughening up” course for selectees.
Eight to ten inches of snow blanket valley.
B’nai B’rith Congregation opens rive for purchase of $300,000 of war bonds to buy
a bomber.
Jenkins Township High School student end strike over curtailed basketball schedule.
Stephen Emaunel reelected president of Camp 103, United Sportsman of Pennsylvania.


Jan.29th Anthracite industry finally listed as war industry after ration board members find
oversight.
OPA manager asks public to submit complaints on price rises as his staff is too small to
check all violations.
Lehigh Valley Railroad granted priority by WLB on ten high speed locomotives for
delivery in August.
Attorney Robert J. Doran reelected chairman of Wyoming Valley Chapter of American
Red Cross.


Jan.30th Gas Rationing books on three Luzerne County motorists suspended for violations.
OPA hits forced purchases of other commodities to obtain butter
Mile-O-Dimes campaign for infantile paralysis victims, falls short of goal.
David J. Lewis, Tioga County native and well known in Wyoming Valley, retires as
head of National Mediation Board.


Jan.31st Twenty-two from county graduated from University of Scranton.
Rev. Daniel H. Lewis Jr. former Kingston school teacher, receives call to pastorate
of First Welsh Baptist Church, Scranton.
Sugar Notch Borough dedicates honor roll.
Two more from valley listed as Japanese prisoners.
Peter Papadoples elected head of Ahepa Black Diamond Chapter 55.


February

Feb.1st Anthony Bogdon, secretary of Larksville Borough Council, admits embezzling borough money, but is released by court when he promises to repay.
Paul Super, director of YMCA in Poland, speaks at meeting in Coughlin High School.
Wilkes-Barre General Hospital Alumnae presents flag to hospital to honor 54 members
in service of the armed forces.


Feb.2nd Mrs. James Langdon named commissioner of Wyoming Valley Council of Girl Scouts.
Dr. S.R. Freeman named to city Fire Department civil service board for 4 year term.


Feb.3rd Martz bus lines distribute $20,000 in war bonds as a bonus to employes.
Students of Pringle High School strike in protest of low marks given in discipline.
Luzerne County poultry men report a slump in local egg market as storekeepers are
Forced to buy cold storage eggs to get butter.
YMCA inaugurates course for future selectees to prepare them for rigors of Army life.
Local U.S. employment office reports no rush of applicants for positions in defense
industries as War Manpower Commission announces that dependents alone will not
be cause for deferment after April 1st.


Feb.4th Announcement made that Tri-District Mine Workers’ convention will be held at Scranton for first time within district since 1925.
Kiwanis Club and C of C survey of farm labor situation suggests that a shorter school
period be inaugurated to help shortage.
County draft boards announce that men in 3-A class in non-essential occupations will
be reclassified as soon as possible.
City school board announces that they will seek aid of State Legislature to raise salaries
of employes of the district.


Feb.5th Heights St. David’s Society abolishes dinners for duration.
Reese D. Hughes succeeds David’s Society of Wyoming Valley.
Five motorists lose gasoline rations for violations.
Miss Loiuse Dickinson appointed program director of YMCA.


Feb.6th Government announces that it expects to have all of the 117,000 tires stored in
warehouses in Wyoming Valley classified by February 15th
Six-day work week seen as slowing down departure of men to other areas.
Scarcity of ice cream causes some dealers to stop sales of print packages.


Feb.7th Office of Defense Transportation tells local transportation companies that “if you can’t get ‘em on, let ‘em stand”
Pierre Dreyfus speaks at Manfield Ballroom.
William Nyers, Luzerne, awarded Distinguished Flying Cross for services in Southwest
Pacific.


Feb.8th Sale of shoes halted for one day while stores prepare for rationing.
Local induction station becomes full processing center for Women’s Army Auxiliary
Corps.
Miners threaten to stone street cars crowded with persons returning from bingo unless
they get transportation.


Feb.9th Sale of shoes resumed.
All 1942 officers of Wyoming Valley Tuberculosis Society reelected.
United Mine Workers’ office at Scranton points out that three pair of work shoes
a year are insufficient for men employed in the mines.


Feb.10th Residents of nine municipalities aroused by blast at Franklin Colliery strippings to
loosen coal for power shovel operations.
Jenkins Township School Board approves plan for a physical fitness program for male
students about to be drafted.
Auxiliary Bishop Martin J. O’Connor installed as pastor of St. Mary’s Roman Catholic
Church.
Andrew P. Nowak and John Fahey, president and secretary respectively, of Jenkins
Township School Board, removed from office by court in banc.
State Employes’ Retirement Fund announces that former Governor Arthur H, James will
receive $309 a month for life from fund.
Feb.11th West Pittston Iron Works announces that they will hire women to train for machine shop
Senator A.J. Sordoni donates $50,000 Oriental art collection to Bucknell University at
Lewisburg.
Mine workers at Ewen Colliery, Pittston Coal Company, vote to call holiday on Tuesday
unless company reestablishes basic pay rates by that time.


Feb.12th Miss Martha E. Yackel appointed casework supervisor of Family Service Association.
Louis Hartman, city meat inspector, suspended following the discovery of unsanitary
conditions at Armour Packing plant on South Pennsylvania Avenue.
OPA rules out any further general increase in anthracite coal prices.
Local CIO Council plans to check on area manpower.


Feb13th Luzerne County Schools report that they now have 96 teachers serving in the
armed forces.
OPA agents in large numbers check on pleasure driving of Saturday night drivers.
Bucknell Junior College officially approved as a specialized training center for
Army and Navy pilots and 250 candidates will arrive about March 1st.


Feb.14th Intense cold wave hits valley with mercury dropping to 13 below zero in the
city and lower in mountains.
Dr. Springfellow Barr, president of St. John’s College, speaks at YMHA.
Hanover Township Post home of American Legion, recently damaged by fire,
has been renovated and is ready for occupancy.


Feb.15th Mercury begins slow rise after reaching 12 degrees below zero for the 3rd coldest day in 43 years.
David Williams, West Pittston native, named deputy secretary of labor and industry by
Governor Martin.
Rev. J.J. O’Donnell installed as pastor of Holy Savior Church, East End.


Feb.16th County Commissioners announce that Farm Security Administrarion office will soon move to Wilkes-Barre from Muncy.
Ceiling price of 57 cents for grade AA butter set locally.
Victory Garden Campaign Committee organizes.
Aviation reserve cadets numbering 13 from Wyoming Valley called up to active duty.


Feb.17th First air raid test alert under new regulations comes at 10:50 a.m. and lasts 25 minutes.
Portion of West Luzerne Ave., Larksville, drops four feet as a result of a mine cave.
Wards surrounding Public Square receive permission from City Council to erect honor
roll on square.
Threat of holiday at Ewen colliery ended when union and company reach agreement on
rates.


Feb.18th On order of Justice Maxey of State Supreme Court, John Dando, prominent County
attorney, is disbarred for conversion.
St. John’s Italian parish merged with St. Dominic’s Church, Parsons.
Sgt. Thomas Deutsch, Luzerne, awarded Soldier’s Medal for heroism at Army Air Base,
Colorado Springs.
City School Director Joseph Shergalis announces that he will start ouster proceedings at
next board meeting against Director Luther Kniffen for being absent from three
consecutive meetings.


Feb.19th Physical educators of Luzerne County Schools inaugurate a physical fitness program for students.
Thirty-nine hurt when Greyhound bus goes through guard rail near Stroudsburg and then
catches afire.
Mischievous youths set fire to band stand in Kirby Park.
Milk dealers report shortage of product will be felt in this area by July 1st


Feb.20th Lt. James Smith arrives as commandant to air cadets stationed at Bucknell Junior college.
Elmer Bitzer, Acme Store manager, murdered in his car in front of Hanover National
Bank as he was about to deposit the day’s receipts.
Laurel Line official says extra service is not needed now but as soon as the need
arises it will be provided.


Feb.21st East End residents dedicate honor roll at western end of East End Bridge
Subsidence at Larksville continues as ground thaws.
WPA Band, which played at many functions in Valley, disbanded.


Feb.22nd Stegmaier home on South Franklin Street is dedicated to local Chapter of American Red Cross.
Almost 20% of people of Valley register on first day for ration book two.
Blazing fuel oil from a leaking tank car ties up traffic on Lehigh Valley Railroad at
Falls.
OPA agents gather for second time in three nights at Pittston and concentrate on
traffic which follows a bingo game.


Feb.23rd Attorney Charles B. Waller reelected president of Community Welfare Federation.
OPA arrests two more Scranton dealers in drive against black market operations.
Several womens groups circulate petitions hitting the high ceiling price of fresh
vegetables.


Feb.24th John Kmetz, Nanticoke, elected president of District 50, United Mine Workers of
America.
Court rules that holders of Pennsylvania Bank Stock must pay double but Liberty Bank
shareholders are freed of any payment.
John Mattern succeeds Francis Gibbons, who resigned to tak an OPA position in
Philadelphia, as president of the Junior Chamber of Commerece.
YMCA reelects all officers for coming year.


Feb.25th Three Waves are sworn in at local ceremony.
Victory Garden Campaign Committee organizes and announces that they will issue
permits for plots of ground to be planted.
William O. Roberts, GAR High School music director, receives commission of
lieutenant (j. g.) in U.S. Navy.
First contingant of Army Air Crew students arrive in the city.


Feb.26th City Controller Sloan’s report on audit of City Treasurere’s office turned over to
city solicitor by council.
Adam Mitchell named vice president of Wilkes-Barre Lace Manufacturing Company.
A total of 383,163 ration books are issued by county boards.
Census Bureau reports that on the basis of the number of ration books issued the
Wilkes-Barre-Scranton area has lost approximately 82,00 persons or 11% of the total
population of the two counties.


Feb.27th According to statistics released by the Taxpayers’ Association there are 20,737 less
students and 214 less teachers in the 34 school districts than in 1933.
Building at 177 Main Street, Luzerne, damaged to the extent of $5,000 by fire.
Alleged shortages at City Hall reported to be $9,000.
Williamsport and Elmira drop out of Eastern League.
Run on stores when rumor spreads that soap and ladies’ underwear are to be rationed.


Feb.28th Serious mine cave on upper Carroll Street, Pittston.
Polica Chiefs’ Association reports that many boroughs and townships in county have not
set up civil service boards as required by law.
General manager of Laurel Line says there is no need for more service and “that at last
our customers can stand in comfort”.
OPA announces that no plans have been made to ration soap and clothing.
Relief rolls continue to decline.


March

Mar.1st Due to war efforts the U.S. Army Engineers abandon flood control set up in this
area and city takes steps to operate the pumps and dikes until the war is ended.
Wilkes-Barre Railway Company extends transfer privileges on several lines.
Contractor says two Jenkins Township School directors received $4,320 out of
$11,200 payment for installation of stokers in schools.
Red Cross drive opens.


Mar.2nd County commissioners slice 1943 budget but millage remains the same.
Thousands attend Wilkes-Barre Policeman’s Ball at Granada.
Red Cross collects 11% on first day of campaign.


Mar.3rd John L. Lewis dines in city inroute to Scranton to open session of Tri-District
convention.
Earl Wolgamot, Baron,s manager, released to Batavia in the Pony League.
White’s Drug Store taken over by Flannagan’s Drug Store.
Charles B. Sloan appointed milage director for all city-owned vehicles.


Mar.4th Scale committee at Tri-District convention proposes a $2 per day pay raise
and an improved vacation schedule.
Bloomsburg gas plant of PP&L wrecked by explosion.
Ouster plans against School Director Kniffen, started by Director Shergalis, fail to
materialize.


Mar.5th Three new members added to Bucknell Junior College faculty to handle the Army pre-flight work.
Local airport being repaired from damage suffered during recent flood.
Sgt. Joseph Wateski, Wyoming, awarded Distinguished Flying Cross for service in
Southwest Pacific.


Mar.6th Kingston Cake Company announces establishment of a trust fund to take care of disabled soldier-employes after the war.
Honor Roll dedicated at Preston by Hanover Township Post, American Legion.


Mar.7th Wilkes-Barre Aerie of Eagles inducts class of 70 members.
Army Air Corps announces that facilities at Wyoming Valley Airport will not be
enlarged to train students.
Treacherous driving conditions prevail on highways as slush freezes.


Mar.8th Bill introduced in Legislature that would close Nanticoke Hospital by withdrawing
State aid.
Wilkes-Barre Quota Club celebrates 24th anniversary.
Parrish Street Methodist Church enters 71st year.


Mar.9th Glen Alden Coal Company reports ay annual meeting earnings of $2.81 per share for 1942
Seven loans totaling $450,000 paid off by County Commissioners.
Local Post Office reports an increase of 19% over last year’s receipts.

Mar.10th Lenten rules are announced at Ash Wednesday services.
Stanley Johnson, only correspondent aboard the USS Lexington when sunk, speaks
at National Dinner Club meeting.
Coal famine reported in Philadelphia.
Sliced bread returns to stores.


Mar.11th Mining equipment industry placed under strict wartime control by War Production
Board.
Andrew Wilson Port Blanchard, named anthracite district mine inspector.
Utica enters Eastern League and Elmira acquires Williamsport franchise.
OPA announces that rationing of meat, butter, cheese and other edible fats will begin
on April 1st.


Mar.12th Anthracite shipments for month of February 4.8% higher than for same period last year.
Survey of food in valley shows that cheese and egg stock are normal but that there is a
shortage of butter and meat with merchants receiving about 50% of normal supply.
All workers at General Cigar Company plants receive a 5% wage increase by order of
War Labor Board.


Mar.13th Jack Allen completes 51 years of service as a printer with the Wilkes-Barre Record.
Frank Burnside reelected president of Wyoming Valley Merchants’ Association.
War Manpower Commission starts mailing notices to men in non-essential industries as
to their availability for essential work.
Nine nuns admitted to order of Sisters of Mercy.


Mar.14th OPA obtains injunction against Ben Robzen, operator of Wilkes-Barre Abettoir, for
exceeding quotas for two periods.
Corp Samuel Volpe, U.S. Marines, greeted by crowd of 10,000 when he arrives home
to recover from wounds received at Guadalcanal.
Preview of spring weather attracts many out of doors.
General Cigar Company negotiating for plant of Crane Brothers, Kingston, to be used
as a subsidiary.


Mar.15th Strike of 450 workers at Wilkes-Barre Carriage Company.
Mrs. Evelyn Pekarski, Exter, found dead of food poisoning and husband and small child
critically ill.
Internal Revenue Bureau of 12th District reports up to deadline, 43 million dollars have
been received as compared to 27 million received last year.
Report shows that 25 members of Wilkes-Barre Police force are eligible for pension.


Mar.16th Rabbi Samuel Wolk elected president of Children’s Service Center at annual meeting.
Strike at carriage works ends.
City Council learns at a meeting that the pumping system is inadequate to handle floods
County Commissioners claim that thousands of Luzerne County residents serving in the
armed forces will face disfranchisement unless Selective Service System amends their
rules and let commissioners have access to draft board records.


Mar.17th Thomas Leahy, regional manager of OPA, resigns.
Maj. Gen. Milton A. Reckord, Third Service Command, reports that neither
Wilkes-Barre nor Scranton had proper facilities for housing the company of military
Police assigned to Nanticoke Armory.
Hudson Coal Company curtails sale of anthracite locally to prevent hoarding.
Crest of 21 feet awaited as Susquehanna slowly rises.


Mar.18th Three major coal companies plan check on coal hoarding.
Members of Plymoouth Kiwanis Club bid $31 for a pound of butter with money
going to Red Cross.
Garside and Snyder open plant in Georgetown to manufacture fabric to be used in
footwear.
Medical society reports that 101 doctors from Wyoming Valley are serving in the armed
forces.
Cleveland Orchestra closes season of Community Concert Association with program at
Irem Temple.


Mar.19th Excavations for foundations of National Carbon Company plant in Hanover Township
start.
Local mediation panel awards Hazard workers increase ranging from seven to ten
cents per hour.
OPA begins investigation in County to determine potato shortage.
Shortage of men causes local Post Office officials to consider putting on women as
mail carriers.
Despite rain, after reaching a crest of 20 feet, the Susquehanna River recedes.
Slight cave on Bowman street, Wilkes-Barre.


Mar20th Sale of butter, fats and edible oils banned for one week until rationing becomes
effective.
Assessed valuation of city property drops two million dollars.
Mary Margaret Yeager art collection sold at auction in New York City for $66, 933.


Mar.21st Men of No.6 Colliery, Susquehanna Coal Company, end one-day strike.
Empire Ordnance Company donates $7,500 to local Red Cross Chapter.
Spring arrives with mercury hovering near freezing mark.
Four injured in head-on crash at Meeker.
Wooden seats of Plains Stadium vanish.


Mar.22nd Utility Workers’ Organizing Committee, CIO, chosen bargaining agent for employes of
harding electric plant.
Students at Dallas Township High School strike over dismissal of student caught
smoking.
1,500 attend FBI quarterly conference at Meyers High School.


Mar.23rd Brown block, East Market Street, city, totally destroyed by fire and damages estimated
at half-million dollars.
W. J. Millard addresses Rotary Club on merits of city manger plan.
Exeter borough retains tax rate of 2.04 mills.


Mar.24th $100,000 damge caused Pittston High School by cave which chases 100 families and hits 500 homes.
FBI and Naval Intelligence start investigation of Brown’s Block fire.
Volpe Coal Company leases Butler and No. 6 Collieries to Jermyn-Green Coal
Company.
Long talks on telephone lines banned.


Mar.25th Luzerne County Boar of Law Examiners waive examinations for six men serving in armed forces.
Pittston High School reported to be damaged beyond repair by mine cave and officials
want to conduct an inspection for all Pittston district mines.
Virtually the entire business section of Meshoppen destroyed by flames.
Peter Mather reelected president of Luzerne County Magistrates’ Association.


Mar.26th Blackout test catches Valley by surprise, but officials say results are satisfactory
Edward Eyerman, Jr., reelected president of board of directors of Association of the
blind.
Pittston School District announces it will seek injunctions against coal companies for
caving Bunker Hill section of that city.


Mar.27th Steady employment for 8,000 menassured when American Car and Foundry Company,
Berwick, receives order for tanks.
Three local Army Air Force men are decorated.
Dorothea Wilson, local Waac recruiter, transferred to Philadelphia as senior recruiting
officer in that district.


Mar.28th Over 400 arcres of forest on Bald Mountain destroyed by fire.
Beef and pork are missing from butcher shops over weekend prior to rationing, but cold
cuts are available.
Hazard cave captures Rogers Memorial trophy for third time.
Thomas M. Beaney, Wyoming, appointed superintendent of ___rymn-Green Mines.


Mar.29th Choice meat cuts scarece on first day of rationing and situation not expected to be relieved until end of week.
Orders issued by Federal Commodities Program end free lunches to school children
on April 16 and to relief clients ___ April 24th.
W. Frank Snyder, former WPA branch manager, appointed OPA manager in this
region.


Mar.30th Workers numbering 1,500 strike Haxleton plant of Duplan Silk Company.
Audit of city finances still in early stages 37 days after shortages are revealed.
WBAX’s temporary license extended for 90 days.


Mar.31st Red Cross War Fund campaign surpasses quota of $190,300.
Frank Mitten, superintendent of Wyoming division of Lehigh Valley Railroad,
___med general agent of company and is succeeded by A.J. Ferentz.
Anthracite miners and operators meet in New York and miners present 21 demands
headed by a $2 per day wage increase.


April

Apr.1st Wanamie local, UMWA, passes solution contending the meat ration is below and that a miner needs from ____ to nine pounds per week to work efficiently.
Wlikes-Barre City School Board adopts quarterly payment plan.
Sudden shift of weather conditions cause Navy plane on routine flight to land at
Wyoming Valley Airport.
Anthracite operators meeting in New York, term miners’ demands as impossible.
April war bond quota for Valley set at 23 millions
Lightning, fog, snow and sunshine weather for past 24 hours.
Post office receipts gain 22% for March this year over like period last year.


Apr.3rd Hudson Coal Company report says that bootleg mining operations have been cut 50% by
the war.
Meat not sufficient to meet demands and some people who used all points early in week
have to buy fish for Sunday dinner.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Italian Church, Pittston, closed by mine
cave.
Regional War Labor Board grants employes of Carr Biscuit Company pay increases
ranging from three to five cents.


Apr.4th Sweet Valley threatened with destruction as fire destroys four buildings with $40,000 loss.
Arrangements have been completed for Berwick planyof American Car and Foundry
Company to build a new style tank and also make anti-aircraft gun mounts.
Tony Lazzeri, former New York Yankee star, named manager of the Barons.


Apr.5th Peter Krostek, Edwardsville, deowned in Susquehanna River when homemade sailboat upsets.
Lt. Col. Benjamin F. Evans, acting State Selective Service director, transferred to
Washington. Son, Benjamin F. Jr., raised to same rank as father, and placed in charge
of battalion in Pacific war zone.
Pagnotti emloyes start preliminary work on flushing operations at Pittston.
Mrs. Jane Lohman retires as Post Office employe at Trucksville.


Apr.6th Coldest April 6th since weather bureau established.
John L. Ginley installed as exalted ruler of local lodge of Elks.
Councilman Rogers proposes a volunteer fire department with a gradual reduction of
paid members.
Judge W. Alfred Valentine appointed district 2 chairman of Committee of Economic
Development, a postwar planning organization.


Apr.7th Rev. Robert Boyce, pastor of First Methodist Church, Plymouth, retires after 29 years of service.
Leland Stowe, noted foreign correspondent, speaks at National Dinner Club meeting.
Capt. Lester Daley Club appointed by council to fill the post of deputy fire chief.
Centennial School Building, Nanticoke, closed by inspectors after being damaged by a
mine cave.
Felix Serafin appointed pro at Fox Hill Country Club.


Apr.8th American Red Cross campaign exceeds goal by 7.2%.
St. Mary’s Cemetery Association donates ten-acre plot for Victory Gardens.
Trnasfer dispute by residents of Miners Mills and Wlikes-Barre Railway Company will
be taken before the Public Utility Commission, Mayor Loveland announces.
County engineers office moved from W-B Deposit and Savings Bank building to Court
House basement.


Apr.9th Search of city ordinance reveals fact that for past 22 years city has been paying meat inspector for office which did not exist.
Prof. E.E. Quay named director of Dean School of Business at Wyoming Seminary.
Kingston School Board cuts milage rate to 21 nills which will result in an estimated
saving of $50,000.


Apr.10th St. Casimir’s Lithuanian Church and St. Mary’s Catholic School, both of Pittston,
closed by mine subsidence.


Apr.11th Wilkes-barre Railway Company announces that special street cars used to transport students, will be available for service to parks.
OPA starts check up of persons holding B and C gasoline cards.
Lehigh Valley Railroad reports that it was paid nearly 16 millions for the hauling of
anthracite in 1942.


Apr.12th Strike closes Columbia Lace Mill on East Union Street.
Carl Tintsman, Forty Fort, named to $5,500 per year post of executive director of State
Department of Health.
Back Mountain District seeks own air raid control district.


Apr.13th Strike at Columbia Mills ends.
Second Luzerne County War Loan drive aided by 230 volunteers who will seek 23
millions before May 1st.
Aliens totaling 214 become citizens of U. S. in ceremony at Federal Building.
Lt. Gilbert Wright, RAF pilot and W-B native, reported killed by enemy action,
is now reported safe and is to be released in an exchange of prisoners.
Snow hampers driving and causes use of plows in Poconos.


Apr.14th Judge Thomas F. Farrell of Luzerne County Court, appointed to act as local public
chairman of tripartite dispute panels.
Two Jersey Central freight trains wreck at Mountain Top.
Capt. Oscar Smith of U.S. Navy, and a W-B native raised by President Roosevelt
to the rare rank of Commodore.
Maj. Jacob Mauk, formerly stationed at Wyoming Barracks of State Motor Police
head.


Apr.15th Michael Kosik and all present officials of District 1, UMWA, denominated without
opposition.
Three homes damaged and six persons injured when dynamite blast set off on Ashley
By-Pass construction work goes off with greater force than anticipated.
Hewliston Roberts, Australian teachers’ union leader and RAAF pilot tours Valley in
war bond drive as a guest of Labor Victory Committee.
William E. Burkert installed as commander of Stegmaier Post 50, VFW.


Apr.16th Thirty-acre site in Scranton selected for plant of Murray Body Company, Detroit, to build wings for airplanes.
500 employes of United Pants Manufacturing Company, Swoyerville, call a strike to
speed up WLB in pay.
Scranton Diocese of Roman Catholic Church announces that six men from Luzerne
County will be included in a group of 16 men to be ordained preisthood of June 3rd.


Apr.17th Dr. Frank Maguire, Plains native, named regional director of War Manpower
Commission.
Outbreak of automobile accidents brings death to two and injuries to four.
Scranton OPA office warns meat dealers that they are charging to many points for ham.


Apr.18th Unfounde4d rumors that the sale of gasoline was to be stopped coupled with Spring
weather drains the tanks of many dealers in the county.
Kingston Borough and St. Nicholas’ Church honor rolls dedicated with appropriate
ceremonies.


Apr.19th Local merchants devote ads in Record to War Bond Drive.
Bucknell Junior College inaugurates an accelerated study plan with classes beginning
on May 31st for the summer.
Pittston School Board cuts $43,000 from budget.
On the plea of two Army captains the strikers at United Pants Corporation agree to
resume production.


Apr.20th Chamber of Commerce names nine to board of directors.
Valley pays $2,500,000 “tribute” to Hitler as 22,000 inspect Japanese suicide
submarine.
Joseph Lokuta, Dupont School director, among selectees accepted for Army duty.
A motion for an immediate report of shortage at City Hall is ignored by council
members at a meeting.


Apr21st Two more arrested in connection with shortages at Liberty Bank, Pittston.
Col. Ernest G. Smith, president of W-B Publishing Company, honored by PNPA at
New York Meeting.
Sale of chicks as Easter pets stopped.
OPA rules that proprietors of eating establishments have until May 1st to file itemized
charges.


Apr.22nd Hudson Coal Company reports earnings of $349,900 for first quarter of 1943.
Victory Garden Committee reports that cold and infavorable weather slows down the
start of gardens.
Pennsylvania Game Commission purchases an additional 2,591 acres of land in
Luzerne County to be thrown open to hunters and fishermen.
Tech. Sgt. Thomas Coburn, Forty Fort native and Air Corps hero, returns home.


Apr23rd OPA investigators start check of food prices in Berwick area.
Housewives report that chicken is $.70 per pound with many buyers even at that price.
Rationing officials reveal that Wyoming Valley has only enough gas for essential
driving until next month.


Apr.24th Transportation facilities of the Valley are taxed with service men and defense workers on holiday.
Junior OUAM buys $50,000 in war bonds.


Apr.25th Wyoming Valley residents fill churches and attend special Easter service and between 40,000 and 50,000 watch annual Wyoming Valley Horse Show Association Parade.
William H. Conyngham, 74, banker and coal company official, dies.
Wyoming Borough dedicates honor roll.


Apr.26th Angelo Falzone, Pittston manufacturer, purchase title to West knitting mill at
Plymouth.
Rev. Joseph Kane, pastor of Nanticoke Church, elected moderator of Lackawanna
Presbytery.
Strike at Susquehanna Collieries Company ends.
Most mines remain idle as men observe traditional Easter Monday holiday
Sordoni Construction Company gets sub-contract to excavate and do concrete and
masonry work on Murray Body Plant at Scranton.


Apr.27th Earth tremor rocks some central city buildings.
Army-Navy “E” award renewed for six months at Hazard.
Directors of Bear Creek Township vote that Bald Mountain School is to remain closed.
Kehigh Valley Railroad net income for first three months of 1943 nearly ten times the
amount for same period last year.


Apr.28th Wilkes-Barre district Methodist superintendent reports that churches in his area have reduced their debt by $30,061 during the previous year.
State Police regain original name after six-year lapse.
Lester Zerfoss resigns as supervising principal of Fairview Township.


Apr.29th “General disagreement” reported by Thomas Kennedy on Anthracite wage talks.
John Moore, oldest patrolman on city police force, accidentally shot by Patrolman
Faust Irio in East Market Street barber shop.
OPA investigators report local farmers are charging from 12 to 17 cents over ceiling
prices set for chickens.


Apr.30th Rabbi Samuel Wolk named to fill vacancy on Osterhout Library board of directors
caused by death of William Conyngham.
Congressman Dewey Short speaks at Irem Temple.
Home economics teachers open two-day convention at Hotel Sterling.


May

May 1st Work stoppage starts in mines and government takes over.
Shifts to fill vacancies caused by ministers leaving for the armed forces account for
usually large number of changes made by Wyoming Conference of Methodist Churches.
Swoyersville Borough dedicates honor roll with 1,000 names.


May 2nd John L. Lewis orders coal miners back to work in a 15-day truce woth the government.
NYA automotive shops move from Ashley to Scott Street, Wilkes-Barre.


May 3rd John J. Forbes, former miner, arrives in city as regional anthracite coal manager with offices in Federal Building.
WPB reports that hard coal region lacks facilities for the erection of war plants.
State Gas Specilaists School starts a three-day course at Kirby Park.


May 4th IOU’s held cause of $20,000 shortage at city hall.
Two mines are still idle but majority of men have returned work.
Students of St. Mary’s Parochial School sell enough bonds and stamps to buy 48 Army
jeeps.


May 5th Mine union rejects operators’ final proposal but agree to continue negotiations.
Councilman Robert Rogers demands complete audit of city funds.
Barons win season opener by downing Scranton 2-0.


May 6th Two air raid alarms in ten hours sumon 20,000 wardens to their posts
Six Valley firms accused by OPA of violating regulations.
John A. Wagner, borough secretary of Nescopeck for 23 years, admits embezzling
$1,223 but escapes prosecution when Court considers sacrifices made to repay entire
sum to borough.


May 7th County Controller Miller reports that pay for excised jurors has been found to be drawn by County employes.
Luzerne County Sabbath School Association opens 61st annual conference at Meyers
High School.
Rev. Robert D. Coward, pastor of Ashley Centenary Methodist Church, named a
chaplain in the Army with the rank of first lieutenant.
General Avation Company’s Ashley plant, closed by a strike.


May 8th Freak wind and rain storm hits Valley in late afternoon and blows roof of new Larksville theatre off.
P. J. Connelly, Forty Fort, named district manager of War Manpower Commission with
offices in Scranton.
C of C announces that seven plants employing about 800 and with an annual payroll
of $850,000, have located in the Empirs section of the city in the past two years.


May 9th Rotary International, district 177, opens three-day convention at Hotel Sterling and Irem Temple.
Regional War Manpower Commissioner announces that 46,424persons are employed in
W-B in war production.
Thousand enjoy ideal weather by walking when driving I out of the question due to
gasoline rationing.


May 10th Mrs. Olga Horlacher, Nanticoke, arrested by FBI for writing threatening letters to
Selective Service System Director Hershey, War Manpower Commissioner McNutt
and Secretary of War Stimson.
Mrs. George T. Bell, W-B, named director of Junior League at annual meeting in New
York City.
OPA lists dollars and cents price ceilings for Wilkes-Barre area.
Y’s Men’s Club of W-B marks 20th anniversary of founding.


May 11th Court rules that Avoca School District must pay for light ised in building despite 46 year-old ordinance that gives the borough free power for granting the light company the right to string lines.
Lt. Col. George H. Hafner, State Selective Service director, outlines plans to local draft
officials to take war workers from defense plants and place them in the armed forces.
Little Theatre admits 31 to membership and fills four vacancies in executive committee
at yearly meeting.


May 12th Seward C. Simons resigns as executive director of Community Welfare Federation to take a similar post at Oakland, California
Joseph MacVeigh succeeds Reuben H. Levy as president of Wilkes-Barre-Wyoming
Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Strike at General Avaition Company ends.
Juggling of figures by former city auditor held as one reason for $20,000 City Hall
shortage.


May 13th Reports show that Luzerne County citizens invested $17,021000 in war bonds, or a per capita return of $432,45 but fell about 27% short of the 23 million dollar goal.
Rev. George R. Faint named president of Wyoming Baptist Association at closing
session of a two-day meeting at Nanticoke.
River, swollen to 17 feet by heavy rains, men-acres truck farms along its banks.


May 14th Army inspectors check city restaurants and declare that where unsanitary conditions exist shall be declared out of bounds.
State American Legion convention scheduled for W-B is “streamlined” with only 2,500
delegates expected to attend.
Dallas Borough School District reduces millage four mills to 25.
Gasoline shortage grows accute.


May 15th Rev. Robert L. Smith resigns as pastor of Edwardsville Baptist Church to accept
pastorate of Reynoldsville Church.
E. Walter Samuel elected president of Bear Creek Association.
NYA announces that 500 young women are in training at local shop.
Induction center will examine 895 men during coming week.


May 16th Austin Howard elected state vice president of Junior Chamber of Commerce at
Harrisburg meeting.
Gasoline stations forced to close as “tremendous” slashes are made in deliveries.
Flag pole dedicated on Court House lawn at “I Am An American Day” program with
Chief Justice George Maxey as speaker.


May 17th John L. Lewis tells mine union leaders to “stay at work” until midnight May 31st.
M.G. Shennan named president of First National Bank, W-B.
U.S. Department of Agriculture announces that due to the scarcity of labor they will
use an autogyro to spray trees for gypsy moth extermination.
Wilkes-Barre Carriage Company closed by stirke of men.


May 18th Thieves rob Avoca Rationing Board office of kerosene coupons valued at 577,500 gallons.
Severe electrical storm causes heavy damage at Nanticoke and surrounding communities.
Plains Township School Board plans faculty slash as number of students decrease.


May 19th Victory gardens hard hit when 1.31 inches of rain falls in 50 minutes.
Kiwanis scrap parade held despite heavy rain.
Strike at Wilkes-Barre Carriage Company ends.
Henry Kaiser advertises locally for men to work in Portland, Oregon shipyards.


May 20th General Hospital awards diplomas to 50 nurses.
Large crowd attends Concordia Chorus’ 64th annual sang.
State Police report that they are standing by for orders from OPA relative to the ban on pleasure driving.
May 21st Samuel McCracken elected chairman of board of Lehigh Valley Coal Company.
Col. W.H. Zierdt, former resident of Ashley, retires after 45 years of service.
Susquehanna Colleires miners accept Saturday work pending wage adjustments.


May 22nd Committee of U. S. Congressman check mine cave-in areas and report that they will seek ample and sufficient funds for protection.
State Department of Public Assistance reports grants are at a ten-year low.


May 23rd One hundredth anniversary of the railroad train to enter city.
Office of Defense Transportation order cutting gasoline 40 % necessitates the __________
of five bus routes and _______ of extra service by W-B railway.
First Sunday night blackout comes at 9.20 and lasts 35 minutes.


May 24th White Transit Company abandons North Main Street loop on effort to save gasoline.
Townsman give testimonial dinner for Rev. Robert Coward ___ has received commission in
Army ______ Corps.
Rev. Robert Cham__ assumes pastorate of Miner Congregational Church, Hudson.


May 25th _. W. Charles Gallagher appointed supervisor of all aircraft warning posts in County.
OPA offices in Washington rule that Anthracite miners are among those eligible for extra meat
coupons.


May 26th John L. Herber, regional State Highway engineer, shifted to Harrisburg to head new highway office devoted to research.
High school students comprise most of selectees from City Board 1.


May 27th Graduates of St. Nicholas’ High Schoo; given war bonds in lieu of trip to Washington.
Mine cave closes three Duryea schools.
Forty Fort eliminates $5 per capital tax.
Warden William B. Healey succeeds E.B. Wagner as president of Wyoming Valley Council of
Boy scouts.


May 28th Construction of 1,000 foot spite fence at Rocky Glen climaxes long feud between two lessees of park.
Bernard J. Harding, Scranton, appointed district superintendent of State Highways.
William J. Broderick, retires after 40 years of service with Bell Telephone Company.


May 30th Thousands brave rail to see Memorial Day parade and attend exercises on River Common.
Trains jammed with travellers as interstate bus companies are forced to suspend sale of tickets.
Attorney Albert H. Ashton reappointed referee of bankruptcy in Middle United States District


May 31st Memorial Day celebrated locally as stores and banks remain closed.
Three soldiers killed and a fourth injuried when car they are riding in crashes into rear of milk truck near Daleville.
Edward Finney elected business agent for Wyoming Valley District of Carpenters (AFL).


June

June 1st Anthracite mines idle as men await word from Washington.
Dr. William Agar, president of Freedom House, speaks at College Misericordia graduation.
Plan to extend Davis Place to south River Street debated at Council meeting by property owners.


June 2nd Two mine caves in 12 hours cause heavy damage in Pittston.
City draft boards report that no fathers will be drafted in June but two of the four boards will find It necessary to fill quotas with childless married men.
Office of Defense Transportation approves expanded bus service in Valley.
Mercy hospital graduates 35 nurses.


June 3rd Scranton office of OPA busy preparing letters to motorists asking why they used cars over Memorial Day weekend.
New five-year delinquent tax plan, recently approved by State legislators, is adopted by
Wilkes-Barre School Board.
Mercury hits 89 for warmest day of season so far.


June 4th CLO wins election at Teleradio Engineering Corporation, Georgetown.
Miners indicate that they will follow John L. Lewis’s order to work.
Mercury hits 92 degres.
Luzerne County Sabbath School Association celebrates 61st anniversary.


June 5th Steel and iron plants in Northeastern Pennsylvania go on 48-hour week by order of WMC.
Relief rolls on Luzerne County again decline.


June 6th Honor roll dedications at Heights and Newtown attended by thousands.
First German-English Lutheran Church celebrates 45th anniversary.
June 7th Numerous mine union locals pick officers for coming year.
Rationing officials announce that workers will no longer be eligible for C gasoline cards to travel Back and forth to work.


June 8th Cole Brothers’ Circus attended by thousands.
Henry A. Besteder seated as president of local aerie of Eagles.
Msgr. Fulton J. Sheen speaks at Hotel Sterling.
Commencement at Wyoming Seminary.
West Pittston Iron Works signs contract with CIO for plant guards.


June 9th Tin collection in county still moves upward.
OPA announces that motorists who drove to the circus will get tickets.
Sgt. John Fritz, Dallas, awarded Air Medal in Australia.


June 10th Announcement made of 55 appointments among Roman Catholic priests of Scranton Diocese.
Price of butter rolled back five to six cents a pound by OPA order.
Miss Margaret Thomas named director of YWCA Summer Camp.
Two new names added to board of directors at annual meeting of Vulcan Iron Work.


June 11th Central city traffic knotted as OPA agents question motorists about pleasure driving.
Meyers and Coughlin High Schools hold commencement exercises.
Dallas Borough School Board grants teachers raises ranging from $200 to $400.
Record publishes mercantile appraisement list.


June 12th Thousands jam Internal Revenue office to pay quarterly installment of income tax.
Crowds rush shoe stores to buy footwear before ration stamp 17 expires.
OPA district manager announces that local board will be able to pick own personnel.


June 13th WLB announces that increases from 7.5 to 15 cents have been granted workers of Hazard Rope Company.
Severe storm hits Pittston area but misses city.
Wilkes-Barre Railway Company gets priority to pave mile-long section of Hazle Street which Has been paved with brick.
June 14th Mark S. James, director of Pennsylvania Post-War Planning Commission, addresses St. David’s Society annual Flag Day dinner.
War Department reports that Tobyhanna will be converted into air base at a cost of $250,000.
P. M. Roper named head of Pennsylvania Railway’s Wilkes-Barre Division.


June 15th Some shoe stores report shelves clean as persons rush to use ration stamp 17 on final day.
County Commissioners purchase election supplies early to safeguard against shortages.
June 16th Panel Board members voice disgust at flimsy evidence submitted by OPA driving ban agents.
C. F. Goeringer opens dress factory on Madison Street, Wilkes-Barre.
Joseph H. MacVeigh, Dallas, appointed a director of State Chamber of Commerce.
Mine cave on York Ave, West Pittston.


June 17th War Department announces that a hospital will also be built at Tobyhannna.
City School Board finds that the code has been violated for the past 20 years in regard to
paying teachers in monthly installments.
Electrical storm and heavy rain does considerable damage and leaves residents of Wyoming area without electricity for two hours.
City loses Casey Park on Sept. 7th when land holding company leases land to Glen Alden Coal Company.


June 18th Eagles start arriving for convention.
Ration Board frees last of drivers cited for driving to circus.
Reports show that 14 major Federal agencies are located in this city.


June 19th Honor roll of 4th, 5th, 7th and 8th Wards dedicated in Public Square.
Black market opposition and support of President voiced by Eagles at close of convention.
ODT protests closing of stores on summer hours as it will overload existing facilities.


June20th OPA checks drivers on roads leading to pleasure resorts.
Lt. Col. Ben F. Evans, Jr., cited for gallantry in action in Southwest Pacific.
Fourth drowning locally of the season occurs at San Souci Park when Robert Maravce, 17
Donora loses life in swimming pool.


June 21st Operators approve a $5 boost in vacation pay for miners.
Temporary order to limit anthracite coal to amounts received from April to August, 1942,
invoked.
Though all incumbents were unopposed approximately 65% of the miners of District 1 vote in election of officials.


June 22nd First pre-dawn air raid drill termed unsatisfactory by officials who lay blame on signal whistles.
City Council adopts plan to extend Davis Place despite opposition of property owners in that Section.
Few miners in region working as they await orders from UMW headquarters.
William Dalon named chairman of local price panel.


June 23rd Mrs. Mary Smichowski first woman member to sit on Dupont Council in 26 years when she succeeds her deceased husband.
Columbia Fire Company, Kingston, gets new 200-horsepower pumper.
John L. Lewis orders miners to work until October 31st.


June 24th Two locals vote to work today; two others Monday, but most mines remain idle.
John T. Jones, Hanover Township, named chairman of price panel of Ashley rationing board.


June 25th Three men killed at Franklin Breaker when shovel hits buried dynamite and sets off terrific blast.
Wilkes-Barre district of Wyoming Conference of Methodist Church makes two changes of pastors
Mercury reaches 97 degrees.
Hazleton Bus lines affected by strike of drivers.


June 26th Mercury tops 90 degrees for the 8th straight day.
Luzerne County’s borrowing capacity for the post-war period is listed at over 20 million.
ODT agrees to check crowds in merchants’ plan for earlier summer closing hours.


June 27th Local C of C renews drive to get industries in Valley.
Mrs. George A. Edgerton, Plains, elected president of Bi-County Council of American Legion
Auxiliary.
Wyoming Valley Industrial Development Fund announces that the Leon-Ferenbach silk mill in Parsons will be occupied by S. Frieder & Sons, nationally known cigar manufacturers.


June 28th Peter D. Clark of Dallas appointed treasurer of Luzerne County by Governor Martin.
Heat wave of nine days routed by rain.
Pittston City School Board suspends ten teachers in order to get State aid.
Report shows that 26.985 persons visited playgrounds during first week.


June 29th Walter D. Fuller, Philadelphia publisher and area director of Committee for Economic Development, speaks at Hotel Sterling on post-war problems and planning.
Local labor leader predicts quick ending of mine strike.


June 30th Approximately $335,000 in interest is credited local savings depositors.
C of C announces that Murray Body Company may train workers at West Side Armory.
State Supreme Court rules that the Commonwealth has a legal right to seize hospitals
erected by taxpayers without reimbursing those who paid for them, leaving Wilkes-Barre City with a claim of $125,000 that cannot be collected.
Barbers raise price of haircut to $.65 and a shave to $. 35.


July

July 1st Wilkes-Barre Railway and subsidiaries petition Federal Court in Scranton for the right to reorganize
Almost all of the miners return to work with only 5,000 remaining away from posts.
City School board names Alderman Barber and Murphy as per capita tax collectors.


July 2nd Lt. (s.g.) Robert Gallagher, U.S.N., Kingston, reported missing in action a year ago now reported to be in Jap. Prison camp.
John L. Lewisorders miners to work on Monday at premium pay.
Returns from parking meters in city $1,204 less than estimated for first six months of the year.


July 3rd OPA agents check srivers on all main highways for pleasure driving.
Military police from Nanticoke Armory will patrol Public Square over the holidays.
July war bond quota set at $1,793,614
Nicholas Cave named to fill vacancy on Dallas Council.


July 4th OPA announces a dollar and cents ceiling price on eggs for the month of July.
Dealers report that fresh meat is scarce with beef practically inobtainable.
OPA’s rigid check on resort roads help to keep many motorists home.
Edwardsville and Sugar Notch dedicate honor rolls


July 5th Steel Workers’ Union at Hazard serves notice on WLB that they intend to strike after the 30-day “cooling off” period expires.
Heavy traffic reported by railroad and bus companies.


July 6th Response to Government plea for miners to work on holiday brings inexpected results as only a few miners remain away from pits.
OPA checkers stopped over 5,000 cars on highways in four-day period and found 800 violations of pleasure driving ban.


July 7th Councilman Robert Rogers discloses that he was “approached” by salesman of fire apparatus firm
Wilkes-Barre will benefit under expansion program planned by American Airlines.
All mines in districts 1 and 7 are producing.
William B. Healey, commander of Luzerne County Citizens’ Defense Corps. Charges that many people are dodging defense work.


July 8th Rev. Percy A. Davis, pastor of Westmoor Church of Christ, announces resignation effective Oct. 1st
Post office figures show that less than 20,000 of an estimated 70,000 car owners in County have taken out Federal Use Tax stamps.
State Highway Department reports that one phase of its post-war plan of a super highway from Philadelphia and Easton to Wilkes-Barre.
Contract for a granite honor roll for Lee Park natives in service is let.


July 9th Miners Bank celebrates 75th anniversary of founding.
Two-day plant protection meeting at Hotel Sterling closes.
Major Tom Brian, East End native, promoted to rank of lieutenant colonel.
Charles Anthony elected president of Plymouth Lion’s Club.


July 10th Sara E. Davis, Kingston, accepts position of overseas director for Red Cross.
Several person, including a Parsons doctor, have gasoline ration coupons removed from book for pleasure driving.
Fire routs seven families from South Main Street apartment.


July 11th A total of 580 men from Luzerne County called for medical examination by Army for coming week District OPA orders a 25to 50% cut in price of cabbage and lettuce.
Anthracite County Councils, VFW, renew demand for veterans’ hospital in Poconos.


July 12th Honor roll for 11th Ward of city dedicated.
Lt. Col. J. Henry Pool reviews local aviation cadets.
Local Red Cross Blood Donor Campaign nets 771 pints of blood in four-day drive.


July 13th Large section of plaster falls off Court House wall.
United States Employment Service begins extensive survey of mine workers in anthracite region.
John T. Stapleton and Peter D. Clark are elected to board of directors of Wilkes-Barre Deposit and Savings Bank.
Governor Martin speaks at Pennsylvania Sheriff’s Association Convention at Hotel Sterling


July 14th Fred M. Keifer resigns as a member of Dallas rationing board.
City Council votes ro buy $7,740 fire engine.
State Forest and Water Department announces that Rickett’s Glen will be open to public on
August 1st.
Edward Finney elected for 11th consecutive year as business agent of Wyoming Valley District Carpenters.


July 15th U.S. Employment Service announces that 10,000 men are needed for anthracite mines in Northern region.
Wilkes-Barre City Council and School Board join efforts to secure machines in closed NYA
workshop.
Population of County prison reaches a new low with only an average of 112 inmates.


July 16th Secretary Ickes in Washington declares that time is not yet right to return mines to owners.
Several women sign up with Marine Corps when recruiting trailer visits Valley.
Teleradio Corporation Georgetown, signs contract with CIO providing for wage increases and vacations.


July 17th Pocono hotels report business as exceptionally good.
Two gasoline station operators arrested by enforcement agents of OPA.
Solomon’s Creek flood gates completed.


July 18th Lehman Township dedicates honor board with 96 names.
Cost of increased food allowances to relief clients offset savings of reduced rolls.
Largest crowd ever attends AOH picnic at Sans Souci Park.


July 19th Draft boards receive notice to reclassify 4-F’s with minor physical defects.
Delegation of citizens appears before Ashley Borough Council and asks that something be done In regards to control of Sulphur Creek.
OPA fixes restaurant prices as of period from April 4-10
Four pumps loaned by the Federal Government to be used in case of large fire or raid, tested by city employes.


July 20th Glen Alden Coal Company asks County Board of Assessors to cut assessments by 15 millions
Joseph Rubinski, Jr., 13, Plymouth, drowns while attempting to swim Susquehanna River at
Carey Avenue bridge.
Ashley by-pass contractor reports inability to obtain steel for bridges on route.


July 21st John Alles, city electrician, perfects a device that will blow all air-raid warning devices at once and can be operated by one man.
Luzerne County Medical Society meets at White Haven Sanitorium.
Four more motorists lose gasoline books.
Lehigh Valley Coal Company asks for a $1,700,000 cut in assessment figure.


July 22nd WMC restricts job shifting in area.
Elizabeth Wharen, city, named executive secretary of Nanticoke-Newport Chapter of American Red Cross.
Ninety-eight, including board clerk, drafted from Plains.


July 23rd Will probated at Court House shows that John N. Conyngham left an estate of nearly five millions.
Earl D. MacCallum named president of Luzerne County Chapter, Pennsylvania Motor Truck
Association.
Catholic Light, Scranton Diocese paper, puts the blame on Mussolini for the bombing of Rome by American aviators.
State Bureau of Mines reports that 83 men lost their lives in the anthracite coal mines for the first five months of 1943.


July 24th Navy obtains 27 17-year-old youths in week’s drive.
American Legion Honor Roll on Center Avenue, Plymouth, enlarged to receive additional names.


July 25th City draft boards to send 431 men for final examination during coming week.
Lithuanian Day at San Souci Park.
Navy Department asks local families to discontinue use of family codes when writing to men in service.


July 26th Mayor Loveland reports that Robert L. Sooby will be appointed to police force in a few days.
Court appoints four school directors in Jenkins Township.
Survey shows that 13,340 Victory Gardens have been planted in County.
Rev. J. J. O’Donnell pastor of Holy Savior Church, celebrates his 44th anniversary as a priest.


July 27th Confusion marks early morning blackout test which comes at 12:36 a.m.
Night shift at West Pittston Iron Works walks off job.
Judge Aponick rules that a liquor license must be issued for Church Street, Kingston,
Establishment which was refused by Liquor Control Board as being in a restricted zone.


July 28th West Pittston Iron Works officials and union leaders deny that any trouble took place.
Lt. William R. Smith former bat boy for Barons, named captain in U.S. Army Air Corps in
England.
Residents of Lee Park section of Hanover Township break ground for a permanent granite
honor roll.
Nearly 600 members of Irem Temple, AAONMS, witness induction of 33 novices.


July 29th Luzerne County Council of Defense creates frozen blood bank at request of War Department
Rainfall totals one and one-half inches on 20 hours.
Regional War Manpower Commission offices confers with defense center officials in
Philadelphia to see if skilled workers cannot be returned to this region.


July 30th Pennsylvania Greyhound Lines applies for a charter to run helicopter lines into this region after the war.
Rev. Paul Seibert, OFM, in charge of Franciscan Monastery in Georgetown announces that he will leave in a few weeks for missionary work in Brazil.
Rev. Roswell Lyon, pastor of Shavertown Methodist Church, accepts a call to Waverly, N.Y.
Florian Boland succeeds Dr. Frank P. Maguire as regional director of WMC when Boland is
transferred to Allentown office.


July 31st Sterling K. Briggs, a Wilkes-Barre native formerly with the 109th Field Artillery, is advanced to the rank of major at Mitchel Field, N.Y.
Because of transportation difficulties Kehoe-Berge Coal Company cancels its annual clambake.


August

Aug 2nd Four seek GOP nomination for Mayor.
Local flyer plunges 600 feet and into Carverton home.


Aug 3rd Huber miners remain on strike.
UMWA to withdraw application to AFL if application is delayed.
Rev. Gordon Roberts accepts call to First Presbyterian Church of West Pittston.
Plymouth Council sells Town Hall building to Harry Scott for $2,500.


Aug 4th Luzerne County included in survey of Gypsy moth.
Police and Fire Departments ask City Council for 15% wage increase.
Leaves granted Arthur W. Johnson and Raymond Mugford, City Policemen, to enter armed forces.


Aug 5th Misericordia College graduates 19 students.
109th Regiment Band disbanded.
Michael Yencha, 8, seriously hurt when dynamite cap explodes.
Herman Kersteen and Robert Lloyd draw choice spots on GOP Harmony slate.


Aug 6th Twenty-three Plains Township teachers suspended due to decrease in enrollment.
State Guard leaves for intensive training at Indiantown Gap.
John D. Stapleton selected to audit Wilkes-Barre School District books.
Trolley car rail removal job to be started as soon as possible.


Aug 7th Walter Hooper, assistant Boy Scout executive at Astabula, Ohio
Dallas Water Company sold to Philadelphia Utility interests.
Output of local mines show large increase.


Aug 9th Rev. John Albright accepts call to St. Luke’s Lutheran Church at Noxen.
Two homes struck by lightening.
Power and car service halted by hail storm.
Rev. Geo. W. Massey accepts call to Westmoor Church of Christ.


Aug 10th Jenkins Township dedicates honor roll at Sebastopol.


Aug 11th Registration of American Legion delegates begins.
Four gas dealers cited by OPA for violations of rationing regulations.
Luzerne County Court sells 88 delinquent properties.
Arnold Kraft, athletic coach at Plains High School, seeks leave of absence.


Aug 12th Attorneys Hopkins Rowlands and Ben R. Jones named chairman of annual Welsh Day.
American Legion opens convention with address by Governor Edward Martin.
OPA schedules hearing in 17 violations of rationing regulations.


Aug 13th Four Dallas Rationing Board members resign and protest appointment by district office of Joseph G. Schuler as new chairman.
War Labor Board grants increases to bus and trolley men.
House to house canvass for blood donors begins.
General Cigar Company plant in Kingston celebrates 20th anniversary.


Aug 14th Frank X. Murray of Scranton elected State Legion Commander.
Draft of pre-Pearl harbor fathers seen by October 1st.


Aug 16th State Defense Council urges greater zeal in scrape drive.


Aug 17th Mr. and Mrs. W.P. Williams, DeMunds, celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
Health Department reports two cases of infantile paralysis.
Community Recreation Center at Kingston dedicated.


Aug 18th Harry Goldberg elected Grand Chancellor of Knights of Pythais.
Glen Alden and Lehigh Valley Coal Companies denied assessment reductions.


Aug 19th Nesbitt Hospital acquires former Starks home for new Nurses’ Home.
Paul Bedford chosen to lead Community Welfare Campaign.
Earl Maurer and Joseph Joseph, City Hall employes charges with larceny, embezzlement and false entry by District Attorney.


Aug 20th Michael Kolesar, City accountant, accused in City Hall scandal.
Councilman Robert Rogers demands complete investigation of City Hall.
War emergency bus schedules eliminated by ODT.
OPA investigators question motorists traveling Market Street bridge.


Aug 21st E. Perry Holder, Vulcan president, resigns to accept position with Wickware-Spencer Steel
Company of New York.
New Wyoming Borough High School damaged by mine cave.
Four Jenkins township School Board member arrested for bribery and conspiracy to cheat.
Mayor Loveland answers Councilman Rogers inquiry into City Government.


Aug 23rd F.O. Laurer appointed Red Cross Supervisor of First Aid.
Rev. Francis Edwards becomes Army chaplain.
Councilman Rogers replies to Mayor Loveland’s statement about shortage in City Hall.
OPA continues check on pleasure drivers.


Aug 24th Electric equipment of Tomberg Electric Supply Company damaged by erly evening fire.
Lehigh Valley Railroad makes changes in personnel.


Aug 25th Joseph G. Schuler named chairman of Dallas Rationing Board.
County Commissioners pave way for Airport dike.
Taxpayers charge Hanover Township officials with extravagance.


Aug 26th North street bridge closed to traffic for repairs.
Fall in mine cage is fatal to George J. Blackman.


Aug 27th Rev. Benjamin Ridley appointed to Skinners Eddy Methodist Church.
Sixty-one indicted by Grand Jury.
Income tax forms mailed to 408,000.


Aug 28th Thirty-seven motorists to appear before OPA for violating pleasure ban.
Nine teachers of Jenkins Township suspended because of decreased enrollment.
Luzerne County bond quota for Third War Loan Drive set at 21 millions.
Hudson honor roll unveiled.


Aug 30th Mr. and Mrs. Llewellyn Lewis celebrate 59th wedding anniversary.
Three Courtdale police officers indicted by Grand Jury for attack.
Explosion of dynamite cap injuries five Dupont boys.
Miss S.M. O’Hara condemns Separationists.


Aug 31st Rev. A. Rees Morgan accepts call to Edwardsville Memorial Church.
Debt of Luzerne County Institution District ordered paid by County Commissioner.
Lackawanna Railroad wreck at Wayland, N.Y., kills 25 persons.


September

Sept 1st Employes of United Pants Company, Swoyerville, return to work after a one-day strike for back wages.
Earl Maurer, Joseph Joseph and Michael Kolesar indicted by Grand Jury in City Hall shortages.
UMW goes to Court to get portal pay demand.


Sept 2nd Figures show Luzerne County population down 15,000.
A.J. Sordoni purchases building next to Sterling Hotel on West Market Street for $10,000.
Rev. Peter Dexnis appointed pastor of Friendly Lutheran Church, Wilkes-Barre.
Survey shows 2,000 more persons working in Luzerne County than in 1940.


Sept 3rd Michael Kolesar, former City Accountant, asks Court to set aside counts of embezzlement and Fraud charged against him.
William D. Perkins, well known vocalist killed in fall down shaft at Bliss Colliery.


Sept 4th County Commissioners plan post-war work.
UMW requests all miners to work Labor Day.


Sept 6th Pennsylvania Volunteer Firemen hold convention at Exeter.
Holiday traveling taxes al means of transportation.
OPA requests return of all B and C gasoline ration books for exchange.
Miners work holiday for extra wages.


Sept 7th Pennsylvania Railroad wreck at Philadelphia kills 100 persons.
Luzerne County teachers’ institute convenes at Irem Temple.
OPA extends A gasoline book period.
Street car track removal aids scrap drive.


Sept 8th Air raid tests resumed after month’s lapse.
Draft Boards receive notice to check all registrants prior to induction of pre-Pearl Harbor fathers.
William Kvetkas, Wilkes-Barre, elected new commander of Wilkes-Barre Post 132, American Legion.


Sept 9th Colorful parade opens Third Ward Loan drive in Luzerne County.
Kislyn reimburses the County for over-draft of funds in 1942.
Kingston property valuation cut $400,000.


Sept 10th Largest Nurse Aid Group receives caps.
Mrs. Sylvia Hill, 17 year old mother, critically burned as truck upsets on Narrows Road.
Rev. E. Daniel Hughes begins duties as pastor of Puritan Congregational Church, Wilkes-Barre


Sept 11th Mr. and Mrs. John W. Gelsleighter, Wilkes-Barre, celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
Albert A. Fairchild elected to fill vacancy on School Board caused by death of Attorney Fred B. Davis.
Seventy-five miners of the Susquehanna Coal Company go on strike claiming their pay checks were short.
Rev. Franklin R. Payne resigns pastorate at Wyoming Avenue Christian Church, Kingston.


Sept 12th Jermyn Green Coal Company and Volpe Construction Company returned by the Government to the operators.


Sept 13th Mercury dropped to 39 degrees for a new low for the month of September.
Light voting forecast for primary election.
Draft quotas arrive a week late due to reclassification of registrants prior to induction of Pearl Harbor fathers.


Sept 15th Loveland ticket sweeps city in primary election.
Leo Insalaco, Quentin Griffith and James Prozenzana arrested and accused of fraud in the sale of gasoline ration coupons.


Sept 16th Martin Hayes, Wilkes-Barre, and Paul M. Walsh, Kingston, receive citations for good work with
Army Engineers in Panama Canal Zone.


Sept 17th Steve Farris, Swoyerville tax collector, filed action against Swoyerville School District for cutting his commission.
School survey ordered die to drop in city school enrollment.
Major coal companies file suits against County for values set for tax purposes.


Sept 18th J. Henry Pool, Kingston, advanced to rank of Colonel in the Army Air Corps.
Joseph Sweeney, Hanover police officer, loses appeal for reinstatement.


Sept 20th Ration order which controls coal deliveries to consumers goes into effect today.
Annual convention of Salvation Army convenes at Hotel Sterling.


Sept 21st Three large airline companies compete for use of Wyoming Valley Airport.
Wilkes-Barre Council, Knights of Columbus, purchase the former Flynn funeral home on South Washington Street.


Sept 22nd R.S. Graham is licensed as a minister.
Plains Township’s oldest business establishment damaged by fire with an estimated loss set at $30,000.
Rev. James r. Longsinger accepts pastorate of Plains Presbyterian Church.
Sept 23rd Lee Park asks court for charter to erect an honor roll.
New dress plant at Edwardsville to employ 120 women.
Gwen Dew, war correspondent, describes experiences as a Jap prisoner to audience at Meyers High School.


Sept 24th Police solve five purse snatchings with the arrest of 18 year-old Negro.
Seventeen young women graduate from Wyoming Valley Homeopathic Hospital.


Sept 25th Shortages at City Hall covered by bonding companies while cases against Earl Maurer, Joseph
Joseph and Michael Kolesar continue.
Sales in Luzerne County Third Ward Loan drive lag.


Sept 27th Glady’s Louise Graham, 14 killed by automobile at Forest, Lake Township.
Wilkes-Barre Fire Department kept busy over week end with eight calls.
A state air raid alert at 9 p.m. finds defense personnel at controls in record time.


Sept 28th Rev. John M. Owen , pastor of Lynwood Congergational Church, becomes a
Chaplain in the Army.
OPA district manager abolishes position of vice chairman of the board, held by
Charles F. Terry.


Sept 29th Air raid warden commeded for administering first aid to fall victim during recent
blackout.
Luzerne County Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart formed at Hotel Redington.
Due to the dry weather, forest fires have broken out in several sections of the County.
Sept 30th Central Slipper Compnay, Wilkes-Barre, granted increase in wages by the War Labor Board.
Thirty young women from Wyoming Valley leave to take Civil Service jobs at Washington.
Rev. Felix Zafiro assumes new duties at Shavertown Methodist Church.


October


Oct 1st OPA inspectors find 634 violations of meat ceiling prices in check of 958 stores.
William A. Hughes, veteran Bell Telephone man, retires after 45 years service.
Two Episcopal ministers receive new charges: Rev. Lyman B. Greaves, St. George’s
Church, Nanticoke, Rev. William Hoskins at St. Andrew’s, Alden and St. Peter’s Church,
Plymouth.
Peter Yelen arrested for placing rocks on Lehigh Valley Railroad tracks at Tomhicken.


Oct 2nd Two men killed and several shaken up in collision of Delaware and Hudson and Central Railroad of New Jersey freight trains at Laflin.


Oct 3rd Rev. Richard Davey, pastor of West Pittston Methodist Church, resigns to accept charge at Buffalo effective October 15th.
Eleven business places face OPA hearings by district officials for violations of rationing
regulations.


Oct 5th Bucknell Junior College adds three to teaching staff.
City unable to meet State demands for completion of Ashley by-pass.
OPA penalizes five concerns for overdrawing ration bank accounts.


Oct 6th Nine hundred attend Community Welfare dinner at Irem Temple.
Survey shows 285 young women from Wyoming Valley are now serving in the Waves.


Oct 7th Seventy-five year old carriage house on W.D. Payne estate, Kingston damaged by fire.
K. Russell Smith sues Zilphia W. Hanson for cost of plane in which her son and husband
were killed in September, 1940
Nanticoke bot dies of burns received when a kerosene flare explodes.


Oct 8th City School Board irked by delayed audit.
Luke D. Corbett is appointed principal of Hazle Street School.
Twenty-nine new Shrine members installed at ceremonial at Irem Temple.


Oct 9th A new survey of Luzerne County shows 7,784 homes are vacant.
Police and firemen repeat demands for wage increase.
OPA reports a saving in gasoline mileage for the past month.


Oct 11th School children start drive for scrap paper.
Pennsylvania Railroad freight house slightly damaged by early evening fire.
Department of Public Assistance reports a decrease in general assistance cases.


Oct 12th Dr. William Policoff elected vice-president of Pennsylvania Optometric Association.
Lt. Gilbert Wright, previously reported missing in action, writes he is sfae in a German
prison camp.
A.J. Ferentz, Lehigh Valley Railroad superintendent, announces railroad will get ten new
locomotives.
DAR opens convention at Hotel Sterling.


Oct 13th U.S. government terminates its control of mines and makes preparations to restore properties to former owners.
Bruce Payne wins court cases against First National Bank, Scranton.
Postal Telegraph Company and Western Union Company announce merger.


Oct 14th Leroy Deets, 2 ½ and pet dog disappear in woods near home at Mountain Top.
John G. ruggles and Robert W. Johnson elected to Board of Directors of Wyoming
Valley Motor Club.
Defeated GOP candidates report $5,551 spent for primary election.


Oct 15th Mountain Top child, suffering only from cold and fright, found by searching
parties a short distance from his home.
Fred M. Kern, Wilkes-Barre, named vice-president of Vulcan Iron Works to succeed
E. Perry Holder.


Oct 16th First National Bank, Wilkes-Barre, celebrates 80th anniversary.
Bedford Williams, named Civilian Defense district chief.
Liquor store hours cut to releive manpower shortage.
Bootleg coal operators warned to cease operations of face arrest.


Oct 18th Rev. and Mrs. H.F. Miller, Wilkes-Barre, celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
Deferments for nine workers pressed by War Manpower Commission.
Four county employes and a former WPA clerk charged with forgery and fraud.
Survey shows the city will end year with a deficit.
Horse Show draws capacity crowd.
Mr. and Mrs. Clinton Honeywell, Luzerne, celebrate their55th wedding anniversary.


Oct 19th Luzerne County mine jobs offered to idle Lackawanna County men.
Plans are completed for honor roll to be erected in the Tenth Ward.
Wilkes-Barre Induction Center to process Lycoming County selectees.


Oct 20th Lt. Gen. George Grunert, native of White Haven, becomes Commander an Chief of
Eastern Defense Area.
Wyoming Valley Airport flood control assured in statement by County Commissioners.


Oct 21st OPA gives instructions for the issuing og Ration Book No. 4.
Bernard Burgunder elected to National Board of the Family Welfare Association.
City Council asks Court’s reasons for additional audit of finances.
Federal Reserve Bank announces 27% drop in payrolls on local area compared with
a year ago.


Oct 22nd Andred Kizis, West Pittston, and four other residents of Luzerne County indicted by Grand Jury for violations of the National Bank Act.
American Stores employes granted a raise in wages by the War Labor Board.
Fourteen Luzerne County residents graduated at Penn State College.
Delinquent school taxes to be collected by two collectors.
Community War Chest goal is short $64,197 as campaign comes to a close.
T.M.B. Hicks, Jr., elected president of the Little Theatre to succeed Con O’Donnell.


Oct 23rd Col. Ernest G. Smith, president of Wilkes-Barre Publishing Company, receives honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters at Lafayette College.
Amelia C. Wenderroth, Wyoming Valley Chapter Red Cross Director, resigns her
position effective November 1st.
Selective orders fathers called in draft on a percentage basis.


Oct 25th Fordy Jones, city plumbing inspector, charged with violating Registration laws and Supplies $500 bond.
Parade plans for Armistice Day announced by Wyoming Calley Armistice Day Committee.
Purple Heart Order organized at YMHA.


Oct 26th OPA stops increased prices fo milk ordered by State Milk Commission.
Stegmaier employes granted a three-dollar weekly increase by War Labor Board.
Anthracite production shows slight decrease.
Lehigh Valley receives ten new locomotives.
Meyers High School students, Junior Red Cross members, complete art work for
Servicemen’s holiday dinner menus.


Oct 27th Mr. And Mrs. Victor Andreoli, slayer of State Policemna Broske, escapes State
Penitentiary.
D.T. Scott, President of Property Owner’s Association, endorses the policies of Con
McCole, candidate for mayor.
Army approves early start on flood control at Wyoming Valley Airport.
South side YMCA celebrates 21st anniversary.


Oct 29th Wyoming Valley Airport covered by nine inches of water due to rising waters of local creek and Susquehanna River.
OPA announces coffee will not be placed on ration list again.


Oct 30th Grand Jury indicts four formaer county employes for forgery.
Susquehanna River crest of 17.5 feet expected after heavy rains.
Dr. Edward Ashton, Kingston, appointed district dental officer for State Department of
Health.
State reports 958 meningitis cases for the State’s worst epidemic in history.


November

Nov 1st Wilkes-Barre Fraternal Order of Eagles inducts 128 new members.
Lutheran churches of Luzerne County hold annualReformation Service at Irem Temple
Miners await decision of UMWA Policy Committee as coal strike looms.


Nov 2nd OPA charges two local grocers with violating rationing regulations.
Rev. A. Rees Morgan installed as Pastor of Edwards Memorial Church, Edwardsville.
President Roosevelt orders seizure of all collieries for failure to work.
Moose Lodge initiates banner class of 264 candidates.


Nov 3rd Mayor Charles Loveland defeated by Con McCole, Democratic candidate for mayor, Republicans win all other offices.
County offices also won by Republicans.
Mine Local Unions vote to remain idle awaiting results of meeting between John L.
Lewis, president of UMWA, and Harold Ickes, government boss of mines.


Nov 4th Miners ordered back to work as contract is signed granting increases in wages.
Three persons killed in automobile accident at Dallas Borough.
Wilkes-Barre Publishing Company employes granted raise in wages by War Labor Board
Practice bomb difusing planned by Council of Civilian Defense.
Columbia Lace Mills employes granted increase in salary dating back to October, 1942


Nov 5th Four-family apartment house in Edwardsville badly damaged by afternoon fire.
OPA sispends Nanticoke station operator for duration of war for rationing violations.


Nov 6th Plains Township Fire Department charged with inefficiency after home in Plains is badly damaged by fire.
C.F. Goeringer purchaese Fort Durkee Hotel, Public Square.


Nov 7th Mrs. John Brozena kills husband at Smith Row home after domestic quarrel.


Nov 8th Luzerne County relief cases show decline.
Employes of Wilkes-Barre Railway Company granted salary increase by War Labor Board.


Nov 9th Streets flodded by heavy rainfall.
Dr. H. Gordon Guyler elected president of kiwanas Club.
Cold wave sweeps Wyoming Valley as temperature goes to freezing point.


Nov 10th Mr. and Mrs. William Cragle, Kingston, Celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
Keystone Aircraft Corporation dedicates service flag.


Nov 11th Liquor rationing goes into effect.
Induction of pre-Pearl Harbor fathers begins at Kingston.
Coal dealers, selling coal over ceiling prices, stopped by Court.


Nov 12th J.J. O’Malley elected president of Frist Federal Savings andf Loan Association.


Nov 13th Coal shipments in Wyoming Valley show 25% decrease.
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Klein, Wilkes-Barre, celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.


Nov 14th Plains Methodist Church opens centennial celebration.
Tenth Ward hoor roll dedicated at West South and River Streets.
Home Defense Unit has largest parade since World War I.


Nov 15th Paul Pengelly, former clark in office of Clerk of Courts, pleads guilty to charges of
forgery and conversion.
Rev. Claude Kummerer, pastor of Bethesda Congregational Church, Edwardsville,
resigns effective December 26th.
Rev. George V. Inczura starts 26th year as pastor of St. Mary’s Lithuanian Church,
Kingston.
Earl McCallum buys Mountain Top bus line.
William Deisenroth, city patrolman, enters Army.


Nov 16th Mrs. Wothington Scranton retained by republican women.


Nov 17th Mayor Loveland announces recommendation for new accounting system at Cith Hall.
Audrey Campbell, Blind Association executive, resigns to enter Red Cross field work.


Nov 18th Albert Nesbitt, Metropolitan Insurance salesman, retires after 43 years service.


Nov 19th Geddie B. Morrell reelected comander of Irving Rutstein Post, Veterans of Foreign
Wars.


Nov 20th Proffessor Charles H. Davis appointed assistant director of Concordia Singing Society.


Nov 21st St. Luke’s Reformed Church, Wilkes-Barre, celebrates 50th anniversary.
Dallas Borough dedicates honor roll.
Plains township honors service men and women with flag-raising and honor roll ceremony.


Nov 22nd Army transport plane crashes at Tamaqua killing seven persons and injuring two others
Wilkes-Barre City Council adopts new accounting system for city hall.
Wilkes-Barre Fire Department holds annual Ball at Irem Temple.

Nov 23rd Earl W. Maurer, former chief clerk in Department of Accounts and Finance, pleads
Guilty to charges of false statement and embezzlement.
Marine recruiting staff completes tour of Wyoming Valley.

Nov 24th J. Andrew Boyd, editor-emeritus of the Record, celebrates 88th birthday.
OPA announces increase in coal prices to offset pay boast granted UMWA.
Mr. And Mrs. Fred Appel, Sr., Wilkes-Barre, celebrate 51st wedding anniversary.

Nov 25th Dr. Albert R. Feinberg, city physician, promoted to rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in
Army.
Fire destroys farm machinery valued at $6,000 at Montrose.
Highway deaths in Luzerne County show decrease.

Nov 26th Wilkes-Barre Carriage Company discharges 50% of its employes due to curtailment in war contracts.

Nov 27th Two hunters killed and one seriously injured in local hunting accidents.

Nov 28th Pringle Borough holds flag raising ceremony and unveils honor roll.
Edwards Memorial Church, Edwardsville, marks 75th anniversary.

Nov 29th Wilkes-Barre Mothers of Service Sons have flag dedication.
Largest number of selectees in several months inducted at Wilkes-Barre Induction Station as 117 enter armed forces.

Nov 30th Two Glen Alden men killed in separate accidents.
Ensigh Ernest Watkins, Park Place, Kingston, killed in airplane crash near Atlantic City.
Sunday School of Westminster Presbyterian Church celebrated 100th anniversary.

Typed by Pat Dundore, March 2003

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