Unlike the character Gracie Lou Freebush in the movie “Miss Congeniality,” none of the respondents to an informal opinion poll conducted by the Sun-Gazette expressed a desire for world peace in 2022. But, their thoughts on their hopes and goals for the new year are no less noteworthy.
After finishing out almost two solid years dealing with a pandemic that has robbed many families of loved ones, COVID is first on the minds of many people who spoke to the Sun-Gazette.
Tammy Anderer, chief administrative officer for Geisinger’s north-central region, said she looks forward to helping bring healthcare to the region.
“The new year often brings hopes of new beginnings, and we look forward to our own new beginnings as we open Geisinger Medical Center Muncy in 2022. This brand-new medical center along with enhanced services at Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital and our Geisinger clinics throughout the region are important for our neighbors and contribute to a healthy and vibrant community.
“While 2021 was difficult as we continued to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m thankful for our dedicated teams at Geisinger who delivered care to those who needed it close to home. I’m also thankful for our neighbors and community members who showed their support, offered a kind word during challenging times, and received their COVID vaccine and booster to keep our community safe. I look forward to working with the community in 2022 as we grow together, and I wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year.”
Robin Young, 44, of Williamsport, would just like it if “COVID could go away.” And, as the pandemic has created short tempers and divisions in the country, Young wishes that “people could learn to love instead of hate.”
Eric Wolfgang, 58, of Montgomery, summed it up, saying “I hope some genius can curb or cure COVID–that has been such a disruption in everything.”
“No more COVID. I’m tired of it,” Cheryl Kwasney, Loyalsock, answered, succinctly expressing aloud what most of us are thinking.
Speaking in more general terms, Ron and Deb Derr, of Loyalsock, owners of Perfect2Perfect Estate Sales, are “both thinking of better health for family, friends and ourselves in the new year.”
As a new year begins, other things on the minds of area residents, in addition to a continuing pandemic, include rising prices and shortages of consumer goods and of course politics.
A hope to see “gas prices go down” was voiced by Wolfgang. “You can’t buy 2×4’s–prices of everything are through the roof,” he added.
Barry Rake, of Williamsport, said he sees 2022 as a critical point for the nation.
“I think the most serious issue is the election. I think the 2022 election will determine the future of our country, “ he said. “It appears we are heading in a direction of losing our freedom. We are at a crossroads. Which road we choose is going to be very critical for this country.”
On the flipside, taking a more relaxed leap into the new year, Dave Rothcrock, of Jersey Shore, can frequently be found out on his favorite local trout streams even in the winter months.
And, he said he plans on keeping up that routine in 2022, fishing for trout or guiding other anglers.
“I am hopeful for good hatches and rising fish. Even if I can’t get that I’m glad for hungry fish,” he said.
Mark Mangiardi, 34, Williamsport, owner of Leo’s Pizzeria, said, “I’d like to continue what we’re doing, donate to a few a places and win best pizza for the third year in a row.”
Looking ahead to the new year Deanna Eldredge, of Loyalsock, is “hopeful that people make an effort to be more kind and patient with each other. Somewhere along the line, we as a society have forgotten that relationships with each other are important. We need each other.”
And that’s kind of like world peace after all.
Sun-Gazette reporters John Bergmueller, Pat Crossley and Mike Reuther contributed to this report.
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