Rain and chilly weather may have cancelled the Parade in Susquehanna Borough, but the good men of American Legion Post 86 wouldn’t let it get in the way of honoring, respecting and remembering the brave men and women who died for our country.  The Memorial Day service was moved into the American Legion Post, and the ceremony was lead by First Vice Commander Brian Delany.

1st Vice Commander Brian Delaney with Honor Guard

In between the speeches of dignitaries the Susquehanna High School Band played God Bless the USA, The Shining of the Stars, and when they played the Marches of the Armed Forces they asked those Military Personnel in attendance to stand when their theme was played so they could be recognized for their service.

The Susquehanna High School Band

Vice Commander Delaney introduced Julia Shell who sang the Star Spangled Banner, followed by all reciting the Pledge of the Allegiance.  He spoke about how our lives are free, because of the men and women who fought and died for us.  Post Chaplain, Roy Whitehead followed with a prayer.

Mayor, Nancy Hurley in her speech said “honor those men and women today who never returned, honor them by being courageous in our own lives.” 

Susquehanna District Attorney Robert Kline reflected how it was sad so many people stray so far away from the meaning of this day.  A day where we as Americans, should consider it our duty to honor the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Allan Hall, Susquehanna County Commissioner said many people take our freedom for granted; this is an important day to remember.  He said it was wonderful so many people were in attendance; that they took the time to come and pay their respects to the men and women who died for our freedom.

Magisterial District Judge Jodi Cordner said it was an honor and a privilege to be there, and to forever remember those who died fighting for our country. She spoke about the background of the song Taps and closed by saying. “rest in peace fallen hero’s you will never be forgotten.”

Judge Jason Legg spoke about technology, how the Internet stories and so forth are telling us we are divided as a nation. If you were to believe social media you would see America with dark colored glasses. He spoke about a Frenchman, Alexis de Tocqueville who came to study democracy in America, how he searched for the greatness and came to the realization America is great because it was good. Judge Legg asked the audience if Mr. Tocqueville came back in this period of time, would he still find the same answer? He said fundamental goodness is exemplified by what we celebrate today, solidary of purpose, gratitude, respect, defending the defenseless, and a community without division.  Judge Legg said God has blessed this nation repeatedly, and asked the heavenly father to continue to bless the United States of America.

Commander Gene Stewart spoke about Albert Patrillo who was buried at St. John’s Cemetery in 1967.  He was killed in the line of duty in Vietnam by a sniper and is now resting in peace.  Mr. Patrillo’s family brought memorabilia to share and display at the Post.

Vice Commander Delaney read the names of many Veterans of Post 86 who passed away this past year.

Pictured (L-R) are: Chris Johnson, Terry Rockwell, Scott Darling, Gene Stewart, Joe Rockwell

The Memorial Prayer was lead by Pastor Vince Chiaramonte, and who spoke about the one point three million people who didn’t come home and gave the ultimate sacrifice.  He then quoted John 15:13, “no greater love, than to lay down one’s life for a friend”.  Love of family and country, may God Bless America.

As an end to the ceremony the Honor Guard went outside the Post to conduct a three-gun salute and taps were played.  The service ended, and a meal was provided to all in attendance.

Three Gun Salute with Taps

The New Milford Men’s Club presents steel plated vests to Chief Jon Records and Officer Daniel DeJesus of the Great Bend Police Department. The vests are an extra level of protection for the officers designed to stop a rifle round. They have become standard equipment since attacks on police and active shooter incidents. Pictured (L-R) are: Officer Daniel DeJesus, John Reynolds, Ray Telnock, Bob Dunn, Bob Senior, Rick Ainey, Jim Carr, Ken Bondurant, Aubrey Elbrecht, Chief Jon Record.

A representative from Susquehanna Clean Air Network (SCAN) attended the New Milford Borough Council meeting on June 1st to ask Council for approval to conduct a 5k Run/Walk at nine o’clock on August 12th.  Paula Millard said they would like the race to kick off the Festival they were planning to have in Blue Ridge Park that day.  Ms. Mallard said she is the Co-Chair of the event, and would like to keep the 5k off Route 11, and on the Borough Streets.  Council members stated it wouldn’t be a problem, and the Columbia Hose Company will assist the walkers/runners at the intersections.

Ms. Mallard stated the Susquehanna Clean Air Network was founded when there was talk about an incinerator to be erected in New Milford Township.  She said they would like to be a presence not only to oppose, but also to support clean air, family and fun and that’s why they are planning a Festival.

SCAN would like to share with the public what Susquehanna Clean Air is all about. They will be inviting organizations from Lackawanna and Broome County to share ideas.  SCAN is organizing an event where families can enjoy the outdoors, the pool and other activities.  Ms. Mallard stated it would be a community event to celebrate our County.

Code Enforcement Greg Sheer was on hand to review his monthly report for the month of May with Council members.  He thanked Amy Heine for all the work she does, and the great communication.  He said he’s been very busy since he expanded his business to include Radon Mitigation.

Mayor Scott Smith stated how good the park looks.  He relayed to Council he had a luncheon with State Representative Jonathan Fritz and asked if he would be able to help him with an issue regarding Southwestern Energy.  Representative Fritz said he didn’t know what, if anything, he could do to help, but he said he would try.

Bids were received and opened to repair and fix drainage on Peck Hill road.  Two bids were received; Highland Road Enterprises, and Ken Rauch Excavating.  After reviewing the two bids it was awarded to the lowest bidder, Ken Rauch Excavating pending review of the Borough’s engineer.

Councilman Lawrence White spoke about Johnson Street underpass and the hardship of trying to fix the potholes.  The cold patch isn’t holding, and there isn’t much more they can do at this time.  He also stated they are looking to hire a seasonal employee to help in the Department of Public Works, part-time during the summer months.  Council members agreed an ad should be placed in the paper.

Council President Rick Ainey presented to Council a way for other Borough employees to be compensated for Election Day. The New Milford Borough office is closed on that day and the office employees receive Holiday pay.  He stated all other Borough employees would receive a floating Holiday, which they would be able to use at any time during the fiscal year.  Council members discussed this for a few moments and unanimously approved the floating Holiday.

Two representatives from the New Milford Nationwide Insurance Company asked to speak so they could clear up a misunderstanding about their proposed giveaways at the Midtown Festival.  After several minutes of speaking with Council members it was decided the Festival Committee members would make a decision and get back to them the next day.

Eleanor Lempke said the New Milford Rotary was cohosting the Midsummer Fair at Green Gables on July 9th and tickets were now available to purchase.

Recently Rep. Jonathan Fritz (R-Susquehanna/Wayne) and Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) today announced a $442,274 grant to be awarded to Leatherstocking Gas Company for the installation of a natural gas line in Bridgewater Township. The grant is awarded through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Pipeline Investment Program.

The proposed project will extend the existing natural gas line an additional 7,300 linear feet along Route 29 serving the borough of Montrose and the township of Bridgewater. The project will provide low-cost natural gas to homes and will service 130 acres of commercial/industrial property, as well as create 100 jobs and retain 80 jobs.

“This substantial grant will provide much-welcomed economic growth and development to Susquehanna County,” said Fritz. “I am so pleased to see the public and private sectors working together to create jobs, fuel business growth and enhance our community.”

“Improving the accessibility and availability of natural gas service throughout our region will give more residents the opportunity to benefit from this low-cost, more environmentally friendly fuel,” said Yaw. “As sponsor of legislation establishing the Pipeline Investment Program, my colleagues and I continue working to ensure that locally produced natural gas stays local for the benefit of area residents, businesses, hospitals and schools. I congratulate Leatherstocking on receiving this state investment and it will serve as a benefit to the entire county.”

Pipeline Investment Program funds will be used for the construction of the gas line, engineering and inspection costs. Total project cost is $884,548 and Leatherstocking Gas Company will provide matching funds in the amount of $442,274.

Michael German, president and CEO, stated, “LGC is moving forward to acquire the necessary easements and permits in order to begin construction. We are encouraged by the support of state and local officials, the local customer response to date, and believe this gas line will be a stimulus for future economic growth and job creation in the area.