HONESDALE -- James Shook of Palmyra Township took the oath of office as Wayne County Commissioner before President Judge Janine Edwards on Wednesday, Dec. 28, in the Main Courtroom.
Shook was named by Judge Edwards to succeed Joseph Adams, who was elected as State Representative for the 189th Legislative District in November.
Commissioner Shook graduated from Wallenpaupack Area High School, after which he owned and operated the Wallenpaupack Lanes, a bowling alley which he relocated to a site off Route 6 just west of Hawley in 1994. In 1999, he took over operation of the Lake Region IGA supermarket, which he has operated for more than 20 years. In 2007, he created the Community Dock Foundation, which is funded privately and through annual fundraising events and helps those in need.
He served on the Board of Directors for the Chamber of the Northern Poconos and its predecessor the Pocono Lake Region Chamber of Commerce from 2000 to 2021, serving as President and Treasurer. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Lake Wallenpaupack Watershed Management District and has previously served on the Wayne County Investment Board and the Hawley Parks & Recreation Commission.
In 2021, he and his partner opened the Paupack Watering Hole on Route 6, just east of Hawley.
Shook said he has supported Wayne County the best way he could through his business connections and organizations. He has served the tourism industry and assisted those who are sick or injured. “I see this as an opportunity to serve the best interest of more residents. I consider it an extension of service,” the new commissioner explained.
He said he has no expectations other than to do his best. “I have no other interest but that of the taxpayers,” Shook said. He and his wife of 22 years, Rebecca, live in Palmyra Township. They have three daughters.