The Holidays in Luzerne County

Before we close the books on 2010 for good, I would like to publish a human interest story about Luzerne County Pennsylvania. Luzerne County's reputation was demolished by a FBI corruption probe which is still ongoing. It has led to the prosecution of over thirty individuals including judges and a county commissioner. The unbearable corruption led to the approval and adoption of Home Rule by the voters. The prevailing sentiment seemed to be that the status quo was unacceptable, and a change had to be made.

The Citizens of Luzerne County

Despite the horrendous background, Luzerne County is still a great place to live and to visit. The Holidays are something special in Luzerne County. Undaunted by the news, the citizens of Luzerne County managed to enjoy a festive Holiday season. This is a testament to the inherent civility and patriotic spirit of the people who have been betrayed by their leadership. The world should know that the average citizen of Luzerne County is honest and respectable, and it is a limited section of the business and political leadership which has gone astray.

The Holiday Celebration

On Thursday, December 2, the Holiday Season began with the county's annual tree lighting ceremony. Samantha Lancaster, 7, of Hunlocks Creek, hit the button to light the 28-foot-high tree in the courthouse rotunda. Just to demonstrate that some of political leadership is honorable, Commissioner Chairwoman Maryanne Petrilla purchased the Christmas tree for $575 from her campaign funds.

A nativity display and other seasonal ornaments returned to the courthouse lawn. Last year the display was part of a legal dispute, as the American Civil Liberties Union filed a complaint. The dispute was settled before last Christmas as the county agreed to display a broader holiday display, which included a Kwanzaa message, Santa Claus, and candy cane yard ornaments.

In accordance with longstanding tradition, local high school bands and choirs performed in the courthouse rotunda. Choirs and orchestras from the three city high schools from Wilkes-Barre, Meyers, Coughlin, and G.A.R. all performed at the courthouse.

Source: Michael P. Butler, County lights way to holiday season, The Citizens' Voice, December 3, 2010.