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As is the case with many of those present, it has been my pleasure to have known John for many years, and am aware of his charitable and community service involvement. It is an understatement to say he is one of the main stays of our community A life-long resident of Monroe County- grew up at Pocono Manor where his father was the pastry chef [inherit that talent?] After graduating from Tannersville High School he served in the air force during the Korean War. He came back to Monroe County, obtained his certified public accounting decree, and founded one of the most respected accounting firms in this county, which during tax season he still works seven days a week! Amazingly, he has been married to Phyllis for almost fifty years, with whom he had eight children, and now has thirteen grandchildren Active in his church, our lady of victory, where he was part of the lay ministry as a lector. Also a member of the Knights of Columbus, and was Board President of the Msgr. Mchugh Catholic School Former scoutmaster, little league and Babe Ruth coach for over twelve years. Ran an umpire clinic - [so if you have any problem with any local umpires - you can complain to him!] Also instrumental in raising money for the establishment for numerous ballfields His charitable money raising does not stop there - $750,000 for the headstart program - $400,000 for Burnley Workshop - and as part of a team, $2,300,000 for the Monroe County public library - he continues to serve on several charitable endowment boards. Presently: 10 yrs has served on the Monroe County affordable housing board Executive board of the Minisink Trails Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and has been instrumental in raising tens of thousands of dollars annually to support scouting programs. In recognition of his contributions to scouting he has received the silver beaver award - highest volunteer award given by the BSA. 40 yr member of the optimist club of the Stroudsburg's, a past president, still scholarship chairman, many years raise funds for local students to attend college Over 10 years a member of Kettlecreek Environmental Fund, which, in cooperation with the Monroe County conservation district promotes conservation education, particularly to tens of thousands of elementary school student each year John's environmental concerns tie neatly into his being an avid sportsman, as was appointed to the state game commission in 2002, and was the president of its board of commissioners in 2005. He still remains active in the pa federation of sportsmen's clubs, of which he has been a member since 1962, serving at times as its past treasurer and as its past president. There being a hiatus in that activity, of course, when he served on the state game commission. As stated previously, the liberty bell award is given in recognition of an individual's efforts to strengthen the American system of freedom, under law. John Riley, throughout his life, through his numerous charitable, youth related and environmental activities, has endeavored to improve and sustain our community. Although he would be the first to say that he has not acted alone, and what he has helped accomplish was due mostly to the contributions of many others, nonetheless, those involved know how crucial John's involvement has been. Some people just think that the many of the "niceties" we enjoy here in Monroe County, like ballfields, campgrounds, the burley workshop and our public library just happen. These "niceties' contribute strongly especially to the development of the ideals of citizenship and community commitment in the young, which is the foundation of our system of freedom, under law. As one who has made promoting and preserving our community, in oh so many ways, John Riley is well deserving of this award.
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