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Police Attempting to Identify Woman
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Man Found to be Wanted on Out of State Assault Charges After Disturbance
A man was found to be wanted on assault charges in Maryland after causing a disturbance in Ashland on Friday.
According to Ashland Police, on Friday, around 7:00pm, Officer Daley was dispatched for a disturbance in the area of 7 West Centre Street. Witness reported that a male was intoxicated running in traffic, chasing people, and acting out of control.
Another witness also report that the same male was to have been hanging on wires from the roof of a home, then fell off and went into the witnesses home briefly then left.
When police arrived they found Israel Crespo-Silvas, 27, Hampton, Virginia stumbling all over the place.
When police approached, Crespo-Silvas immediately laid on the ground. After a brief struggle, he was taken into custody.
After taking him into custody, police found that he was wanted by the State of Maryland on 4 counts of assault in the second degree.
Butler Township Police also assisted in the incident.
Butler Township Police also assisted in the incident.
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Knoebels Grand Carousel Voted Best in the World
During a recent event at Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut, Amusement Today announced the winners of its 2017 Golden Ticket Awards. The awards annually recognize the “Best of the Best” in the amusement industry and are calculated from an international poll. The results come from a survey that is sent to a database of experienced and well-traveled amusement park fans around the world asking them to rate the “bests” in 25 categories.
Knoebels Amusement Resort received the Golden Ticket Award “Best Carousel” for its Grand Carousel, a distinction it’s received every year the award has been presented. Phoenix roller coaster retained its ranking as the second best wooden roller coater in the world, missing first place by only 29 points. In addition to the Grand Carousel and Phoenix distinctions, Knoebels was a finalist in a number of other categories as follows:
· #2 Best Food
· #3 Best Halloween Event
· #3 Best Dark Ride for its Haunted Mansion
· #4 Best Park
· #4 Friendliest Park
· #4 Best Indoor Roller Coaster for its Black Diamond
· #35 and #44 in Top 50 Wooden Roller Coasters for Twister and Flying Turns, respectively
It’s worth mentioning that Twister made a significant leap in the rankings, going from #47 last year to #35 this year.
“We’re lucky to have a great team dedicated to the maintenance of all of our rides including our wooden roller coasters, which require great effort to keep them operating just as well as the day they opened,” said Dick Knoebel, President of Knoebels Amusement Resort. “We’re thankful and honored that Golden Ticket Award voters recognize our team’s efforts, and enjoy the good, old-fashioned fun we have to offer.”
At the ceremony in Connecticut, Dick Knoebel accepted the award for “Best Carousel.” The 104-year-old Grand Carousel was purchased by the park in 1941, and has received the top award every year since its inception.
Haunted Mansion moved up a spot in the rankings for Best Dark Ride, and missed second place by only one half of a percent. To provide perspective on Knoebels’ competition in the awards, only Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Universal’s Islands of Adventure trumped Haunted Mansion, which opened in 1973.
“From the cleaning crew who make the place shine, to the operators who provide our visitors with a positive experience, to my maintenance coworkers who help keep the ride running with their skills and knowledge, it is truly a team effort, and I’m glad I’m on this team,” said Drew Kanaskie, ride technician for the Haunted Mansion. “I’m happy that our park is recognized for our focus on great, traditional, fun rides.”
Amusement Today newspaper was founded in 1997 and covers international amusement and water park news and trends. To view past results, please visit: www.goldenticketawards.com. To find information on Amusement Today, visit: www.amusementtoday.com.
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Schuylkill County High School Football Scores for Week #4 - Part 2
Schuylkill County High School Football Scores for Week #4 - Part 2
Scores for games played on 09/16/17
Wyomissing - 28
Blue Mountain - 21
Follow more Schuylkill County Sports at http://www.facebook.com/skooksports.
Wyomissing - 28
Blue Mountain - 21
Follow more Schuylkill County Sports at http://www.facebook.com/skooksports.
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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 09/16/2017
Captain Edwin J. Kaufman, ret. U.S. Navy, 76 years of age of Hamburg, formerly of Tamaqua passed away peacefully on Friday September 15, 2017 at Lehigh Valley Hospital Cedar Crest Blvd., Salisbury Township, Pennsylvania.
Survived by his wife of six years, Kay A. (Krieger) Henn-Kaufman; son, Thomas M. Kaufman and his wife Susan of Columbia, SC; daughters, Mrs. Jennifer R. Kerr and her husband Gary of Tamaqua, Mrs. Maureen A. Ciavarella and her husband Anthony of Drums; brother, Larry E. Kaufman and his wife Sylvia of Hilton Head, SC.; grandchildren, Tiffany, Alexis, Garrett, Kipp, Abigail, Vincent, Isabella, Dwight, and Kyla; step-sons, Kevin Henn and his wife Dawna of Denver, Pa., Keith Henn and his companion Lori Bione of Hamburg, Bryan Henn and his wife Diana of Auburn; sister-in-law, Mrs. Sue Kaufman of Reading and many nieces and nephews.
A Tamaqua High School graduate, Ed did a preparatory year at Wyoming Seminary in Kingston before matriculating to Albright College in Reading earning his Bachelors of Engineering. Upon graduation Ed entered the United States Navy having retired with distinction after twenty-eight years as a Captain. During those twenty-eight years, he served on several US Naval warships culminating with the command of the USS Sellers stationed in Charleston, South Carolina. He then earned the rank of Captain and finished his final years of military service in Washington D.C. as Senior Material Readiness officer. Previously he attended the National War College, and Destroyer School. Ed earned many meritorious accommodations from the National Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Medal w/Bronze Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal.
Ed was an avid traveler, visiting all 50 states, where he liked to follow his hobby of Geocaching. He was a gardener and enjoyed bike riding.
Upon retirement, Ed returned to his hometown of Tamaqua, and with his first wife Anne Marie operated his mothers corner grocery store, Anna Kaufman's on Pitt Street.
Born in Coaldale, the son of the late, Edward, and Anna B. (Malishaucki) Kaufman. He was also predeceased by his first wife, Anne Marie (Manning) Kaufman on February 28, 2010 and brother, Mr. Neal T. Kaufman.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday September 20, 2017 at 11 o'clock A.M. from the funeral home. The family will receive friends on the morning of from 9:30 A.M. until time of services.
Interment with Military Honors will be conducted at SS. Peter & Paul R.C.C. Cemetery, Owl Creek, Pennsylvania.
Memorials in his honor to:
Disabled American Veterans
1123 E End Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
online registry and condolences may be signed at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com
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Angelina Marie Julian, age 29, of St. Clair, PA passed away Tuesday, September 12th, 2017 at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Schuylkill, East in Pottsville.
Born in Pottsville, PA on February 29, 1988, she was the daughter of Michelle and Francis and George and Kelly. Angelina earned an associates degree in Medical Assistance at McCann's School of Business in Pottsville. She was a member of St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church in St. Clair and loved to color, to draw and write poems.
was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Joseph and Mary Jane and a brother Ryan.
In addition to her parents, she is survived by three daughters: Nevaeh, Arriella, and Dalilah; maternal grandparents Patricia and Joe and Barry and Darlene; three brothers: Anthony and his wife Marissa, Aric and his fiance' Makenna, and Joey; three sisters: Nikki, Gianna, and Clarissa; and aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A Religious Service will be held at Robert A. Evans Jr. Funeral Home, 208 Pike St., Port Carbon at 7:30PM on Tuesday, September 19th, with Msgr William Glosser officiating.
Relatives and Friends are invited to a viewing on Tuesday evening from 5:30-7:30PM at Robert A. Evans Jr. Funeral Home. Interment will be held private in the Queen of the Universe Cemetery in Pottsville. Please send condolences to wwwlrobertaevansjrfh.com
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Roy E. Reed, 91, of Wayne Township, PA, passed away Friday, September 15th, at Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill, E. Norwegian St., Pottsville.
Born in Wayne Township, PA on October 2, 1925, he was a son of the late Edward & Katie (Jamison) Reed.
He was the widower of Mary Jane (Rogers) Reed who passed away in 2004.
Roy had been employed by at the former Cressona Aluminum, later known as Alcoa, as an inspector.
He was a member of St. John's Reformed Church, Friedensburg.
Roy also belonged to Friedensburg Fire Company, Camp Robert, Lycoming County, and was a life member of Friedensburg Game & Fish.
In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his siblings: Verdan & Davey Reed, Pearl Hummel, Florence Freeman, Verna Stump, Esther Hummel, Ada Brown, & Anna Gerber. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Roy is survived by nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be conducted at Ebling-Stabingas Funeral Home, Cressona, at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 19th, with Rev. Larry Doughan.
A viewing will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.
Interment will follow the service at Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven.
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Born in Wayne Township, PA on October 2, 1925, he was a son of the late Edward & Katie (Jamison) Reed.
He was the widower of Mary Jane (Rogers) Reed who passed away in 2004.
Roy had been employed by at the former Cressona Aluminum, later known as Alcoa, as an inspector.
He was a member of St. John's Reformed Church, Friedensburg.
Roy also belonged to Friedensburg Fire Company, Camp Robert, Lycoming County, and was a life member of Friedensburg Game & Fish.
In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his siblings: Verdan & Davey Reed, Pearl Hummel, Florence Freeman, Verna Stump, Esther Hummel, Ada Brown, & Anna Gerber. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
Roy is survived by nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be conducted at Ebling-Stabingas Funeral Home, Cressona, at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 19th, with Rev. Larry Doughan.
A viewing will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.
Interment will follow the service at Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven.
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John Boardman, 49, of Pottsville, passed away suddenly on Friday, September 15th.
Born in Pottsville, on August 22, 1968, he was a son of Lucy F. (Loftus), of Tremont and the late Robert R. Boardman.
He worked as a heavy equipment operator at Lehigh Anthracite Tamaqua., for 7 years, last working on Friday.
John enjoyed fishing, riding his 4 wheeler, and working on cars. He had a passion for Mustangs and classic cars. He was a hardworker and enjoyed his job. But, most of all John enjoyed his family. He was a dedicated husband and father.
He is survived by his wife, Stacey L. (Williams) Boardman, to whom he was married 20 years; a son, Cash C., at home; two brothers, Robert and Michael Boardman, both of Pottsville; an aunt, Judy Seaman, of Pottsville; mother and father-in-law, Kathleen and Donald Williams, of Pottsville; brother-in-laws: Scott Willliams, husband of Jen, of Pottsville and Shaun Williams, husband of Alison, of Pottsville; sister-in-law, Christine Williams, fiance of Dante McCoy, of Pottsville; godchildren: Brooke Boardman and Miranda Klinger; several nieces and nephews and cousins.
A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, September 20th, at 6:30 p.m. at Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc., 1818 Mahantongo St., Pottsville, with Pastor Peggy Sue Pfeffer officiating. A visitation with the family will be held from 5:00 p.m. until time of service in the funeral home.
The family request memorial contributions in honor of John for the future education of his son, Cash. Please send to:
CACL Federal Credit Union,1800 W. Market St., Pottsville, PA 17901 and list Cash Boardman on the memo line.
Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at lordbixler.com.
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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 09/17/2017
Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 09/17/2017
Sunday - Showers - High in the Mid 70's
Sunday Night - Cloudy and Foggy - Low in the Lower 60's
Monday - Fog Early Sunny and Humid - High near 80
Tuesday - Cloudy and Humid - High near 80
Thursday - Sunny - High near 80
Friday - Sunny - High near 80
Saturday - Showers - High in the Mid 80's
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Police Investigating Rocks Being Thrown from Overpasses on Interstate 78
According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Hamburg, 3 incidents were reported where rocks were thrown from overpasses early Sunday morning.
Police say two incidents occurred around 2:30 am at the Power Drive Overpass. During both incidents, multiple rocks being thrown, striking their vehicle in the front windshield. The impact punctured the front windshield. In addition, due to the quantity of rocks on the roadway, the Victim's vehicle sustained undercarriage damage.
A third incident was also reported at the Exit 23 overpass where an unknown object was thrown striking the windshield of a vehicle.
No injuries were reported.
Anyone with information pertaining to this incident is asked to contact PSP Hamburg at (610)562-6885.
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Man Reported Missing from Hazleton Area
PSP Hazelton is searching for Charles Zunski, 84. He is 5’10” 145 lbs., with gray hair. On September 17 at 12 p.m. he left his residence on the 1000 block of North Locust Street, Hazel Township. He was last seen at a grocery store at 3 p.m. He was wearing a black baseball cap and a blue jacket. He is operating a black 2016 Ford Escape bearing Pennsylvania Registration JYP-1508. He has failed to return to his residence.
Police believe this person may be at special risk of harm or injury.
Anyone with information regarding the location of Mr. Zunski should call PSP Hazleton at 570-459-3890 or 911.
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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 09/18/2017
Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 09/18/2017
Monday - Sunny and Humid - High near 80
Monday Night - Cloudy and Foggy - Low in the Lower 60's
Tuesday - Sunny - High near 80
Thursday - Sunny - High near 80
Friday - Sunny - High near 80
Saturday - Sunny and Humid - High in the Mid 80's
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Man Killed in Monday Morning Crash near Tower City
According to reports, Kenneth Reed, 47, of Tower City died in a one vehicle crash on Greenwood Road, Porter Township that occurred around 4:00am
In the crash, Reed reportedly drove off the roadway and into a tree causing heavy front end damage.
Reed was pronounced dead at the scene.
Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven are investigating.
Tower City Fire and Ambulance assisted at the scene.
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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 09/18/2017
Ann Marie Jean Hartranft, 58 years of age of Coal Street, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully on Monday, September 18, 2017, at home while in the care of her family.
Survived by her husband of thirty-nine years, Earl W. Hartranft; daughter, Elisah Hartranft; sons, Earl F. Hartranft and his companion Shannon Quinn of Tamaqua, Matthew M. Hartranft and his wife Katie of Andreas; sister, Adele McCarroll and her husband Jerome of Tamaqua; brother, Francis Morley and his wife Shawnee of Tamaqua; grandchildren, Kaydence, Faith, Sarah, and Aubrey; many nieces and nephews also survive her.
A 1977 Tamaqua High School graduate, Ann Marie worked as a CNA for numerous long-term care facilities.
Born Sunday, March 1, 1959 in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Francis, and Josephine (Wright) Morley. She was also predeceased by her brother, Bernard Morley.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252.
Graveside Services will be held on Friday September 22, 2017 at 10 o'clock A.M. at St. Bertha's R.C.C. Cemetery, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com
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Timothy Joseph Fabian, 70 of Greenhouse Lane New Ringgold, Pennsylvania passed away on Saturday, September 16, 2017, at St. Luke's Hospital Bethlehem.
Widower of Elizabeth (Hower) Fabian who passed away in 2010, he is survived by; son, Brian T. Fabian of New Ringgold; sisters, Ann Marie Sassaman the wife of the late Joseph Sassaman, Rosemary "Cookie" Rosohac of Tamaqua wife of the late Eugene; half brothers, Floyd Heim and his wife Beverly of New Albany, Jack Weston of Summit Hill; half sister, Verna Smith of Delta, Pa., MaryJane Hossman of New Albany, Arlene Wertman of Orwigsburg; and many nieces and nephews who adored their uncle Timmy.
Born Wednesday, October 2, 1946 son of the late Steven, and Louisa (Gangloff) Fabian. He was also predeceased by; brother, Stephen Fabian; half sister, Mae Melrose nephews, David, and Douglas Rosohac, and Charles Fabian.
Tim, served honorably in the United States Marines during the Vietnam War, returning home to work for Kraft Foods in Allentown. Upon retirement, Tim delivered flowers for Blue Mountain Farms of New Ringgold. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan.
Pending arrangements have been entrusted to the Robert S. Nester Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 2066 West Penn Pike New Ringgold, Pennsylvania 17960. (570) 386-5884
Entombment Fort Indiantown Gap National cemetery, Annville, Pennsylvania.
Online registry and condolences may be signed at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com
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David P Kropp, 98, passed away on September 10, 2017 at John Knox Village in Orange City, Florida. He was born on October 29, 1918 in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania to John George and Katie Elizabeth Kropp. He is predeceased by his loving wife of 64 years, Mary.
David grew up in Tamaqua. He graduated from Tamaqua High School in 1936. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard on the USCGC Ingham during World War II from 1940-1946. After the war, he attended New York University where he received both a BS and MA in Accounting and Business Administration. He worked as an accountant for Devoe & Reynolds Company and Yale & Towne Manufacturing Company, Staff Specialist at New York University, and a motel Accountant-Controller until his retirement. His hobbies included golf, reading, wood-working and singing in the church choir. He is survived by four children, four grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be held at E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 655 East Broad Street, Tamaqua PA. on September 22, 2017 at 1:00 pm.
Interment will be at the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.
online registry and condolences may be signed at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com
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Jean Mae Miller, 90, recently of Baltimore, MD and formerly of England and Tamaqua, PA, died on August 4, 2017 in Mission Viejo, CA. She was the wife of the late Douglas Miller to whom she was married 58 years at the time of his death on June 6, 2003. Born in Belmont, Shropshire County, England on May 18, 1927, Jean was a daughter of the late Edward and Frances (nee Thomas) Green. She was employed by the Tamaqua School District Cafeteria for 28 years. Prior to that Jean worked for Sprite Manufacturing and Tamaqua Garments as a machine operator. She was a member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Tamaqua. Surviving her are daughters, Frances Dick and her husband, Edwin of Parry Hill, MD, Sandra Arsenault and her husband, David of Dana Point, CA, and Jennifer Claus and her husband, Steven of Hollywood, MD; 6 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Katherine Miller of Tamaqua. Her siblings, Edward Green, Ernest Green, Thomas Green, Harold Green, Herbert Green, Margaret Jones, Dorothy Morgan, and Dilys Francis all predeceased her. Services will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, September 23 at the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home, 500 East Broad Street, Tamaqua. Interment in Sky View Memorial Park, Hometown will follow the services. Call 10-11 AM on Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials in her name may be made to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 101 North Greenwood Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252. Online condolences may be made at www.zgfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are being handled by the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua.
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Dozens Charged for Welfare Fraud Statewide in July
The restitution owed the commonwealth in these cases totals $281,672.13. Additional cost savings will be realized as the defendants will be temporarily disqualified from receiving public benefits in the programs they defrauded.
For July 2017, the restitution totals by benefits program amounted to: $166,775.73 for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); $84,269.66 for medical assistance; $19,173.09 for cash assistance, $10,290.65 for subsidized day care and $1,163 for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
“July’s cases range from a combination of $35,963.53 in SNAP, medical assistance and LIHEAP fraud in far northwestern Erie County to $838 in SNAP fraud in southcentral Franklin County,” Inspector General Bruce R. Beemer said. “Those who would defraud Pennsylvania taxpayers should know that our investigators’ reach extends across the state and across benefit programs. And we pursue recovering small and large amounts of restitution owed equally.”
The OIG filed 35 criminal cases of fraudulently receiving public assistance in Pennsylvania that were graded as a felony of the third degree. The defendants are:
•Avia S. Braxton, 28, of Philadelphia, for $5,164 in cash assistance fraud.
•Valyncia D. Coleman, 25, of Erie in Erie County, for $3,176 in SNAP fraud and $1,617 in cash assistance fraud.
•Milagros Rosario, 26, of Allentown in Lehigh County, for $2,095 in SNAP fraud and $1,490.25 in cash assistance fraud.
•Ronald H. Ahrens, 45, and Amy L. Ahrens, 37, of Pocono Summit in Monroe County, for $3,495 in SNAP fraud and $2,206.59 in cash assistance fraud.
•Tayri A. Ramos-Diaz, 34, of Reading in Berks County, for $2,156 in SNAP fraud and $2,528 in cash assistance fraud.
•Kaitlyn R. Decicco, 25, of Frackville in Schuylkill County, for $3,632 in SNAP fraud.
•Zanobia Overton, 67, of Erie in Erie County, for $6,222 in SNAP fraud, $29,514.53 in medical assistance fraud and $227 in LIHEAP fraud.
•Amber N. Booth, 24, of Erie in Erie County, for $5,639 in SNAP fraud and $400 in LIHEAP fraud.
•Joni N. Ascanio, 37, of Newburg in Franklin County, for $5,114 in SNAP fraud.
•Lacie M. Hooks, 35, of New Kensington in Westmoreland County, for $10,530 in SNAP fraud.
•Tiana E. Noble, 34, of Chambersburg in Franklin County, for $3,785 in SNAP fraud and $1,228.41 in medical assistance fraud.
•Melissa A. Bortner, 43, of Highspire in Dauphin County, for $871 in SNAP fraud and $10,290.65 in subsidized day care fraud.
•Mirtha L. Estevez, 54, of East Stroudsburg in Monroe County, for $3,768 in SNAP fraud.
•Marcia A. Osche, 61, of Butler in Butler County, for $1,291 in SNAP fraud and $3,216.21 in medical assistance fraud.
•Pamela R. Bryant, 51, of Lancaster in Lancaster County, for $7,436.73 in SNAP fraud, $2,280.13 in medical assistance fraud and $263 in LIHEAP fraud.
•Linda M. Gaunt, 46, of Johnstown in Cambria County, for $5,232 in SNAP fraud.
•Susan E. Campbell, 58, of Hilliards in Butler County, for $895 in SNAP fraud and $4,304.31 in medical assistance fraud.
•Anya N. Bellamy, 33, of Harrisburg in Dauphin County, for $6,132 in SNAP fraud.
•Richard C. Corley, 51, of York in York County, for $3,258 in SNAP fraud.
•Shannon L. Moffitt, 34, of York in York County, for $3,306 in SNAP fraud.
•Cecelia Collins, 51, of Coraopolis in Allegheny County, for $3,284 in SNAP fraud.
•Jessica L. Filipovitz, 33, of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County, for $4,626 in SNAP fraud.
•Stella J. Caltagirone-Gonzalez, 46, of Reading in Berks County, for $760 in SNAP fraud and $2,652.99 in medical assistance fraud.
•Nicola L. Gardner, 40, of McKeesport in Allegheny County, for $3,716 in SNAP fraud.
•Kalee A. Richter, 27, of Hunker in Westmoreland County, for $3,341 in SNAP fraud.
•Donna J. Tacza, 64, of Mount Pleasant in Westmoreland County, for $4,549 in SNAP fraud.
•Shannon L. Freed, 29, of Beaver Falls in Beaver County, for $7,797 in SNAP fraud.
•Shaquan L. Ambrose, 36, of Tobyhanna in Monroe County, for $3,456 in SNAP fraud.
•Kristi L. Livering, 45, of Jonestown in Lebanon County, for $1,385 in SNAP fraud and $3,440.55 in medical assistance fraud.
•Robert J. Kolson, 34, of Windber in Somerset County, for $9,055.63 in medical assistance fraud.
•Donald J. Slomer, Sr., 52, of Butler in Butler County, for $3,065 in medical assistance fraud.
•Bradley C. Nortum, Jr., 43, of Johnsonburg in Elk County, for $3,297.20 in medical assistance fraud.
•Brooke R. Grassmyer, 43, of Tyrone in Blair County, for $4,266.10 in medical assistance fraud.
•Bruce W. Sykes, 63, of Brookville in Jefferson County, for $12,704.65 in medical assistance fraud.
If convicted, the maximum penalty they face is seven years in prison and a fine of $15,000, plus a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program they defrauded.
The OIG filed 21 criminal cases of fraudulently receiving public assistance in Pennsylvania that were graded as a misdemeanor of the first degree. The defendants are:
•Britnie A. Irvin, 25, of Scottdale in Westmoreland County, for $1,980 in SNAP fraud and $1,410.50 in cash assistance fraud.
•Alisha A. Watkins, 44, of Pitcairn in Allegheny County, for $1,580 in cash assistance fraud.
•Vitalia Souprountchouk, 33, of Chesterbrook in Chester County, for $1,705 in SNAP fraud and $1,729 in cash assistance fraud.
•Segga M. Ocubamicael, 35, of Carlisle in Cumberland County, for $1,954 in SNAP fraud.
•Chrystal G. Ehrhart, 44, of Orrstown in Franklin County, for $2,142 in SNAP fraud and $1,069.52 in medical assistance fraud.
•Christina C. Gaccetta, 24, of New Kensington in Westmoreland County, for $1,661 in SNAP fraud.
•Inez L. Daugherty, 52, of East Freedom in Blair County, for $1,613 in SNAP fraud and $1,140.97 in medical assistance fraud.
•Crystal Blymire, 36, of Spring Grove in York County, for $1,738 in SNAP fraud.
•Angellicca J. Rushing, 28, of Norristown in Montgomery County, for $1,709 in SNAP fraud.
•Lorraine A. McGovern, 47, of Upper Chichester in Delaware County, for $2,786 in SNAP fraud.
•Maya B. Missonis, 28, of Reading in Berks County, for $2,298 in SNAP fraud.
•Jennifer L. Noel, 38, of Altoona in Blair County, for $1,147 in SNAP fraud and $1,984.97 in medical assistance fraud.
•Tonya L. Yerg, 47, of Hazleton in Luzerne County, for $1,570 in SNAP fraud.
•Rebecca A. Murphy, 42, of Bentleyville in Washington County, for $1,504 in SNAP fraud.
•Krista L. Bobby, 48, of Mercer in Mercer County, for $1,939 in SNAP fraud.
•Ashley Palumbo, 31, of Drums in Luzerne County, for $2,322 in SNAP fraud.
•David A. Thomas, 49, of Uniontown in Fayette County, for $1,940 in SNAP fraud.
•Anita Minor, 58, of Upper Darby in Delaware County, for $2,538 in SNAP fraud.
•Natasha L. Haas, 28, of Erie in Erie County, for $1,758 in SNAP fraud and $273 in LIHEAP fraud.
•Amgad N. Abdelmalak, 46, of Souderton in Montgomery County, for $2,831 in SNAP fraud.
•Gregory A. Early, 31, of Norristown in Montgomery County, for $1,648 in SNAP fraud.
If convicted, the maximum penalty they face is five years in prison and a fine of $10,000, plus a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program they defrauded.
The OIG filed 14 criminal cases of fraudulently receiving public assistance in Pennsylvania that were graded as a misdemeanor of the second degree. The defendants are:
•Taisha J. Dreher, 32, of Clairton in Allegheny County, for $1,447.75 in cash assistance fraud.
•Marnie J. Fiasco, 48, of Masontown in Fayette County, for $1,002 in SNAP fraud.
•Rosemary R. Valentin, 46, of Mountville in Lancaster County, for $1,281 in SNAP fraud.
•Jenelle L. Thomas, 37, of Highspire in Dauphin County, for $1,159 in SNAP fraud.
•Julio Toledo Valentin, 30, of Bethlehem in Northampton County, for $1,164 in SNAP fraud.
•Terrance A. Roberson, 46, of McKees Rock in Allegheny County, for $1,164 in SNAP fraud.
•Olivia S. Lucas, 24, of Aliquippa in Beaver County, for $1,131 in SNAP fraud.
•Paula F. Divito, 45, of Easton in Northampton County, for $1,199 in SNAP fraud.
•Derek A. Reed, 27, of Uniontown in Fayette County, for $1,041 in SNAP fraud.
•Kevin P. Cashin, 56, of Kittanning in Armstrong County, for $1,388 in SNAP fraud.
•Kimberly G. Jimenez, 23, of Lebanon in Lebanon County, for $1,208 in SNAP fraud.
•Nickeya L. Gray, 34, of Wilmerding in Allegheny County, for $1,212 in SNAP fraud.
•Heather L. Baney, 42, of Emporium in Cameron County, for $1,048.49 in medical assistance fraud.
•Taylor C. Young, 24, of Phoenixville in Montgomery County, for $1,343 in SNAP fraud.
If convicted, the maximum penalty they face is two years in prison and a fine of $5,000, plus a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program they defrauded.
The OIG filed three criminal cases of fraudulently receiving public assistance in Pennsylvania that were graded as a misdemeanor of the third degree. The defendants are:
•Louisa S. Wingate, 50, of Greencastle in Franklin County, for $838 in SNAP fraud.
•Susan A. Cusumano, 33, of Meadville in Crawford County, for $945 in SNAP fraud.
•Isaiah L. Hays, 30, of Nescopeck in Luzerne County, for $970 in SNAP fraud.
If convicted, the maximum penalty they face is one year in prison and a fine of $2,500, plus a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program they defrauded.
To report suspected fraud please call the Welfare Fraud Tipline at 1-800-932-0582or visit the OIG website at www.oig.pa.gov. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
For July 2017, the restitution totals by benefits program amounted to: $166,775.73 for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); $84,269.66 for medical assistance; $19,173.09 for cash assistance, $10,290.65 for subsidized day care and $1,163 for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
“July’s cases range from a combination of $35,963.53 in SNAP, medical assistance and LIHEAP fraud in far northwestern Erie County to $838 in SNAP fraud in southcentral Franklin County,” Inspector General Bruce R. Beemer said. “Those who would defraud Pennsylvania taxpayers should know that our investigators’ reach extends across the state and across benefit programs. And we pursue recovering small and large amounts of restitution owed equally.”
The OIG filed 35 criminal cases of fraudulently receiving public assistance in Pennsylvania that were graded as a felony of the third degree. The defendants are:
•Avia S. Braxton, 28, of Philadelphia, for $5,164 in cash assistance fraud.
•Valyncia D. Coleman, 25, of Erie in Erie County, for $3,176 in SNAP fraud and $1,617 in cash assistance fraud.
•Milagros Rosario, 26, of Allentown in Lehigh County, for $2,095 in SNAP fraud and $1,490.25 in cash assistance fraud.
•Ronald H. Ahrens, 45, and Amy L. Ahrens, 37, of Pocono Summit in Monroe County, for $3,495 in SNAP fraud and $2,206.59 in cash assistance fraud.
•Tayri A. Ramos-Diaz, 34, of Reading in Berks County, for $2,156 in SNAP fraud and $2,528 in cash assistance fraud.
•Kaitlyn R. Decicco, 25, of Frackville in Schuylkill County, for $3,632 in SNAP fraud.
•Zanobia Overton, 67, of Erie in Erie County, for $6,222 in SNAP fraud, $29,514.53 in medical assistance fraud and $227 in LIHEAP fraud.
•Amber N. Booth, 24, of Erie in Erie County, for $5,639 in SNAP fraud and $400 in LIHEAP fraud.
•Joni N. Ascanio, 37, of Newburg in Franklin County, for $5,114 in SNAP fraud.
•Lacie M. Hooks, 35, of New Kensington in Westmoreland County, for $10,530 in SNAP fraud.
•Tiana E. Noble, 34, of Chambersburg in Franklin County, for $3,785 in SNAP fraud and $1,228.41 in medical assistance fraud.
•Melissa A. Bortner, 43, of Highspire in Dauphin County, for $871 in SNAP fraud and $10,290.65 in subsidized day care fraud.
•Mirtha L. Estevez, 54, of East Stroudsburg in Monroe County, for $3,768 in SNAP fraud.
•Marcia A. Osche, 61, of Butler in Butler County, for $1,291 in SNAP fraud and $3,216.21 in medical assistance fraud.
•Pamela R. Bryant, 51, of Lancaster in Lancaster County, for $7,436.73 in SNAP fraud, $2,280.13 in medical assistance fraud and $263 in LIHEAP fraud.
•Linda M. Gaunt, 46, of Johnstown in Cambria County, for $5,232 in SNAP fraud.
•Susan E. Campbell, 58, of Hilliards in Butler County, for $895 in SNAP fraud and $4,304.31 in medical assistance fraud.
•Anya N. Bellamy, 33, of Harrisburg in Dauphin County, for $6,132 in SNAP fraud.
•Richard C. Corley, 51, of York in York County, for $3,258 in SNAP fraud.
•Shannon L. Moffitt, 34, of York in York County, for $3,306 in SNAP fraud.
•Cecelia Collins, 51, of Coraopolis in Allegheny County, for $3,284 in SNAP fraud.
•Jessica L. Filipovitz, 33, of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County, for $4,626 in SNAP fraud.
•Stella J. Caltagirone-Gonzalez, 46, of Reading in Berks County, for $760 in SNAP fraud and $2,652.99 in medical assistance fraud.
•Nicola L. Gardner, 40, of McKeesport in Allegheny County, for $3,716 in SNAP fraud.
•Kalee A. Richter, 27, of Hunker in Westmoreland County, for $3,341 in SNAP fraud.
•Donna J. Tacza, 64, of Mount Pleasant in Westmoreland County, for $4,549 in SNAP fraud.
•Shannon L. Freed, 29, of Beaver Falls in Beaver County, for $7,797 in SNAP fraud.
•Shaquan L. Ambrose, 36, of Tobyhanna in Monroe County, for $3,456 in SNAP fraud.
•Kristi L. Livering, 45, of Jonestown in Lebanon County, for $1,385 in SNAP fraud and $3,440.55 in medical assistance fraud.
•Robert J. Kolson, 34, of Windber in Somerset County, for $9,055.63 in medical assistance fraud.
•Donald J. Slomer, Sr., 52, of Butler in Butler County, for $3,065 in medical assistance fraud.
•Bradley C. Nortum, Jr., 43, of Johnsonburg in Elk County, for $3,297.20 in medical assistance fraud.
•Brooke R. Grassmyer, 43, of Tyrone in Blair County, for $4,266.10 in medical assistance fraud.
•Bruce W. Sykes, 63, of Brookville in Jefferson County, for $12,704.65 in medical assistance fraud.
If convicted, the maximum penalty they face is seven years in prison and a fine of $15,000, plus a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program they defrauded.
The OIG filed 21 criminal cases of fraudulently receiving public assistance in Pennsylvania that were graded as a misdemeanor of the first degree. The defendants are:
•Britnie A. Irvin, 25, of Scottdale in Westmoreland County, for $1,980 in SNAP fraud and $1,410.50 in cash assistance fraud.
•Alisha A. Watkins, 44, of Pitcairn in Allegheny County, for $1,580 in cash assistance fraud.
•Vitalia Souprountchouk, 33, of Chesterbrook in Chester County, for $1,705 in SNAP fraud and $1,729 in cash assistance fraud.
•Segga M. Ocubamicael, 35, of Carlisle in Cumberland County, for $1,954 in SNAP fraud.
•Chrystal G. Ehrhart, 44, of Orrstown in Franklin County, for $2,142 in SNAP fraud and $1,069.52 in medical assistance fraud.
•Christina C. Gaccetta, 24, of New Kensington in Westmoreland County, for $1,661 in SNAP fraud.
•Inez L. Daugherty, 52, of East Freedom in Blair County, for $1,613 in SNAP fraud and $1,140.97 in medical assistance fraud.
•Crystal Blymire, 36, of Spring Grove in York County, for $1,738 in SNAP fraud.
•Angellicca J. Rushing, 28, of Norristown in Montgomery County, for $1,709 in SNAP fraud.
•Lorraine A. McGovern, 47, of Upper Chichester in Delaware County, for $2,786 in SNAP fraud.
•Maya B. Missonis, 28, of Reading in Berks County, for $2,298 in SNAP fraud.
•Jennifer L. Noel, 38, of Altoona in Blair County, for $1,147 in SNAP fraud and $1,984.97 in medical assistance fraud.
•Tonya L. Yerg, 47, of Hazleton in Luzerne County, for $1,570 in SNAP fraud.
•Rebecca A. Murphy, 42, of Bentleyville in Washington County, for $1,504 in SNAP fraud.
•Krista L. Bobby, 48, of Mercer in Mercer County, for $1,939 in SNAP fraud.
•Ashley Palumbo, 31, of Drums in Luzerne County, for $2,322 in SNAP fraud.
•David A. Thomas, 49, of Uniontown in Fayette County, for $1,940 in SNAP fraud.
•Anita Minor, 58, of Upper Darby in Delaware County, for $2,538 in SNAP fraud.
•Natasha L. Haas, 28, of Erie in Erie County, for $1,758 in SNAP fraud and $273 in LIHEAP fraud.
•Amgad N. Abdelmalak, 46, of Souderton in Montgomery County, for $2,831 in SNAP fraud.
•Gregory A. Early, 31, of Norristown in Montgomery County, for $1,648 in SNAP fraud.
If convicted, the maximum penalty they face is five years in prison and a fine of $10,000, plus a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program they defrauded.
The OIG filed 14 criminal cases of fraudulently receiving public assistance in Pennsylvania that were graded as a misdemeanor of the second degree. The defendants are:
•Taisha J. Dreher, 32, of Clairton in Allegheny County, for $1,447.75 in cash assistance fraud.
•Marnie J. Fiasco, 48, of Masontown in Fayette County, for $1,002 in SNAP fraud.
•Rosemary R. Valentin, 46, of Mountville in Lancaster County, for $1,281 in SNAP fraud.
•Jenelle L. Thomas, 37, of Highspire in Dauphin County, for $1,159 in SNAP fraud.
•Julio Toledo Valentin, 30, of Bethlehem in Northampton County, for $1,164 in SNAP fraud.
•Terrance A. Roberson, 46, of McKees Rock in Allegheny County, for $1,164 in SNAP fraud.
•Olivia S. Lucas, 24, of Aliquippa in Beaver County, for $1,131 in SNAP fraud.
•Paula F. Divito, 45, of Easton in Northampton County, for $1,199 in SNAP fraud.
•Derek A. Reed, 27, of Uniontown in Fayette County, for $1,041 in SNAP fraud.
•Kevin P. Cashin, 56, of Kittanning in Armstrong County, for $1,388 in SNAP fraud.
•Kimberly G. Jimenez, 23, of Lebanon in Lebanon County, for $1,208 in SNAP fraud.
•Nickeya L. Gray, 34, of Wilmerding in Allegheny County, for $1,212 in SNAP fraud.
•Heather L. Baney, 42, of Emporium in Cameron County, for $1,048.49 in medical assistance fraud.
•Taylor C. Young, 24, of Phoenixville in Montgomery County, for $1,343 in SNAP fraud.
If convicted, the maximum penalty they face is two years in prison and a fine of $5,000, plus a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program they defrauded.
The OIG filed three criminal cases of fraudulently receiving public assistance in Pennsylvania that were graded as a misdemeanor of the third degree. The defendants are:
•Louisa S. Wingate, 50, of Greencastle in Franklin County, for $838 in SNAP fraud.
•Susan A. Cusumano, 33, of Meadville in Crawford County, for $945 in SNAP fraud.
•Isaiah L. Hays, 30, of Nescopeck in Luzerne County, for $970 in SNAP fraud.
If convicted, the maximum penalty they face is one year in prison and a fine of $2,500, plus a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program they defrauded.
To report suspected fraud please call the Welfare Fraud Tipline at 1-800-932-0582or visit the OIG website at www.oig.pa.gov. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 09/19/2017
Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 09/19/2017
Tuesday - Sunny - High near 80
Tuesday Night - Cloudy, Maybe a Shower - Low in the Upper 50's
Thursday - Sunny - High near 80
Friday - Cloudy - High in the Lower 80's
Saturday - Sunny and Humid - High in the Mid 80's
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Gillingham Wins Appeal; Charter Renewed for 5 Years
On Tuesday morning, the Gillingham Charter School won an appeal in Harrisburg.
The Gillingham Charter School won their appeal before the State Charter Appeals Board and had their charter renewed for 5 more years.
In a statement from Nicolle Hutchinson, CEO and Director of Education at Gillingham said
The Gillingham Charter School won their appeal before the State Charter Appeals Board and had their charter renewed for 5 more years.
In a statement from Nicolle Hutchinson, CEO and Director of Education at Gillingham said
"Gillingham Charter School is dedicated to providing high quality education to the students of Schuylkill County. By law charter schools are required to apply for renewal every five years, and we can only hope that the Pottsville will not turn this into a two year process every five years. Gillingham has proven that we have and always will be faithful stewards of our charter.
We thank our Board, administration, and countless others who have guided us every step of the way. We are so appreciative of our families who provided a community of support for one another during this time of uncertainty. We look forward to a renewed commitment to our schools mission and vision, and teaching Relational Education through the Charlotte Mason framework, without the constant distraction of the renewal process."
Today's decision came after Gillingham had made their official appeal heard before the board in late July.
Back in 2015, the Pottsville Area School Board rejected Gillingham Charter School's application for a second five-year charter.
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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 09/20/2017
Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 09/20/2017
Wednesday - Sunny - High in the Lower 80's
Wednesday Night - Clear - Low near 60
Thursday - Sunny - High in the Lower 80's
Friday - Cloudy - High in the Lower 80's
Saturday - Sunny - High in the Mid 80's
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Three Juveniles Charged for Rock Throwing Incidents on Interstate 78
According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Hamburg, 3 incidents were reported where rocks were thrown from overpasses early Sunday morning.
Police say two incidents occurred around 2:30 am at the Power Drive Overpass. During both incidents, multiple rocks being thrown, striking their vehicle in the front windshield. The impact punctured the front windshield. In addition, due to the quantity of rocks on the roadway, the Victim's vehicle sustained undercarriage damage.
A third incident was also reported at the Exit 23 overpass where an unknown object was thrown striking the windshield of a vehicle.
Police say damages were estimated around $2,000.00
No injuries were reported.
On Tuesday, 09/19/17, 3 juveniles were charged through Berks County Juvenile Court.
The juveniles were charged with Propulsion of Missiles (M1), Simple Assault (M2), Recklessly Endangering Another Person (M2), and Criminal Mischief (M).
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Man Facing Drug and Firearms Charges After Search Warrant Served
According to East Union Township Police, in the early morning hours of September 20th, 2017 East Union Township Police served a search warrant with assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police Cert Team, ATF, and Schuylkill County Drug Task Force on Center Street in Sheppton.
East Union Township Police had 3 active felony arrest warrants for the occupant.
Brian Furedi Jr, 28, of Sheppton. was charged by police for three different occasions of felony delivery of marijuana & methamphetamine and committed to Schuylkill County Prison.
Furedi will now face additional charges from the search warrant including numerous felony drug and firearms related offenses.
Courtney Moran, 27, also faces charges for possession on controlled substances and drug paraphernalia as a result of the search warrant.
Numerous other arrests will be conducted due to this investigation.
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Schuylkill County Police Log for 09/20/2017
Schuylkill County Police Log for 09/20/2017
According to Ashland Police, they were called to a disturbance in the street in the 1800 block of Walnut Street around 9:15am, Wednesday.
When police arrived, they observed Kyle Konas, 20, of Ashland engaging in a domestic dispute with Demi Tucker, Saint Clair, who was inside her vehicle.
Konas was observed yelling obscenities and throwing his arm inside the driver's side window towards Tucker while she was in the driver's seat.
Konas ignored several orders by police to desist his actions. Konas will receive a citation for disorderly conduct for the incident.
During the course of the incident, police were notified that Konas was wanted on an outstanding warrant by the Schuylkill County District Attorney's Office. He was taken into custody and transported to Schuylkill County Prison.
Butler Township Police also assisted during the incident.
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Fire Crews Battle Early Morning Fire in Schuylkill Haven
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Police Investigating Early Morning Break In at Gun Shop
According to Police, someone broke into Shakey's Gun Shop around 2:00am Thursday morning.
Police are attempting to identify the suspect caught on surveillance.
Anyone who can identify the person in the photo should contact police at 570-366-3101.
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