My husband and I recently visited in Tamaqua, my old hometown, from Atlanta, Georgia.

We stayed with my niece, Libby Klingaman. Libby recently had a special vigil light stolen from the grave of her husband, Bill.

The same thing happened to us years ago, when the vigil light I had on the grave of my daughter, Sheree Anne Zeigler, was also stolen. We were fortunate to get it back thanks to Ed Smith, who was caretaker at that time. He had found it at the bottom of the cemetery, and recognized it as Sheree’s.

It’s unbelievable the things that are going on in our once beautiful old cemetery. Things are constantly being stolen from the graves. Fresh flowers, urns, vigil lights, you name it! It’s disgusting! Do these people have no conscience whatsoever?

Even worse, it’s not even safe to go up there because of “druggies” and the deals going on there.

Plus, the grass is so long in some sections, you’re afraid to visit loved ones’ graves for fear of snakes!

When were children, my friend, Nancy (Wolf) Kabana, and I would spend many Sunday afternoons wandering through the cemetery looking at the beautiful old stones and mausoleums. We were not afraid of the dead or the living.

Now, it’s hardly a safe place for adults, let alone children.

What has my wonderful old town come to? Why doesn’t anyone care?

Sincerely,

Barbara (Schaefer) Cienk

Atlanta, Georgia

P.S.: We have met some sweet and caring people who go up there and out of the goodness of their heart, do whatever they can. We’re very grateful to these kind and special people!