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Mahanoy City Police Officers Honored for Their Heroics

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Two Police Officers were honored for their heroics by the Mahanoy City Elks and other organizations.

In 2018, Mahanoy City Police Officers Jennifer Dempsey and Thomas "TJ" Rentschler were the first to arrive on the scene of a “911” call to find flames and heavy smoke coming from the front of a residence in the "Foundry Row" section of the borough.

Upon hearing yells for help from the second floor, they entered the home without hesitation and proceeded to the second floor despite heavy smoke and flames. They found an adult male and his 1-year old son in a bedroom and led them to safety.

On Saturday evening, the Mahanoy City Elks Lodge 695 held their 35th Annual Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award ceremony where Dempsey and Rentschler were both honored.

Toastmaster for the ceremony and Dinner was Elks District Deputy and Grand Exalted Ruler Gerard A. Kufrovich with Exalted Ruler of the Mahanoy City Elks, Nancy M. Boyle, welcoming those in attendance.

After a dinner catered by A & C Catering, Dempsey and Rentschler was honored.

Kufrovich introduced Christine Verdier, Chief of Staff for Senator Argall and a friend of Dempsey's.

Verdier spoke about her friendship with Dempsey and working together when they were both employed with Schuylkill Township.

"We saw someone who had some excellent credentials coming in, not just as a new officer, but a mother, EMT, and someone we could really count on and trust out in the field" said Verdier.

Also introduced was Mahanoy Township Police Chief Brandon Alexander, who spoke about Rentschler.

Alexander said "TJ has always a been an officer who has been committed to keeping the community safe and a better place for everyone.  I'm not only grateful to have worked along side him but to also call him a great friend."

Alexander finished with "Officer Dempsey and Officer Rentschler, without hesitation ran into a burning building to save a father and son.  They are true heroes in our community, they didn't allow fear or hesitation to stop them from saving any lives.  Because of that, the father and son are alive today.".

DDGER Kurfovich presented both Officer Dempsey and Officer Rentschler with the Distinguished Citizenship Award for their outstanding meritorious service to humanity from Elks Lodge 695 and the Grand Lodge of Benevolence Order of the Elks.

Exalted Ruler Boyle presented both, on behalf of Lodge 695, the award for their recognition of outstanding contributions to their community.

Katie Hetherington Cunfer, Deputy District Director for Congressman Dan Mueser, also presented a proclamation from the 9th Congressional District and on behalf of Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage.

Christine Verdier, Chief of Staff for Pennsylvania Senator David Argall, also presented a proclamation from the 29th Senatorial District.

Finally Kufrovich added "Not many communities have heroes, but here in our small town of Mahanoy City, we are proud, because we have 2, right here in our presence."

Speaking to those that attended, Rentschler commented "It's truly an honor to be appreciated in the community.  We don't go to work everyday and set out for this or for attention.  We come to work to do our job at the best of our ability.  At the end of the day, we get to go with the feeling that we did the best we did."

"Thank you for everything you have done, both of us have been first responders for so long, we just like to go out and help people.  Thank you to the community" commented Dempsey.

Finally, past recipients of the Citizen of the Year were recognized, those in attendance were:

  • Ruth Jane Balliett
  • William Sullenberger
  • Louis Truskowsky
  • Kathleen Wufsus
  • James T. Mayberry
  • Jennifer Dempsey
  • Thomas "TJ" Rentschler

Pictures and Story by J. Reed

























Police Investigating Death of Ashland Man in Hazleton

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Hazleton Police are investigating the death of an Ashland Man in Hazleton.


According to Hazleton Police, on Saturday, police officers responded to a call for an unresponsive Male inside a vehicle in the 600 Block of Seybert Street around 1:00pm.

Upon arrival, contact made with with a female who stated that she observed a male with blue lips and unresponsive seated in a red Chevy Venture, bearing Pennsylvania registration out of Ashland, PA.

Medics, Hazleton fire department and Hazleton patrol division found A 25-year-old male out of Ashland, Pennsylvania, deceased and unattended.

Coroner Jeff Stock was notified as well as Detective Lieutenant W. Gallagher and Chief J. Speziale who were all on scene.

As of Sunday, the death is still under investigation and the identity of the victim has not been released.

BEST OF SKOOK: Winner of the "Best Breakfast" in Schuylkill County for 2019 Is . . .

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And the winner of the Best of Skook Poll, "Best Breakfast in Schuylkill County" is . .

1) Vernalis Restaurant, Shenandoah, PA

2) Muir Fire Company, Porter Township
3) The Catch Cafe, Schuylkill Haven
4) Landingville Fire Company
5)  McDonald's Lunch, Girardville

Honorable Mentions (In Alphabetical Order)


  • 3C's Family Restaurant, Orwigsburg
  • Altamont Fire Company
  • Buddy's Log Cabin, Pine Grove
  • Cracker Barrel, Frackville
  • Creekside Restaurant, Ringtown
  • Donut Shop, Ashland
  • Dutch Kitchen, Frackville
  • Friendship Fire Company, Englewood
  • Friedensburg Country Restaurant
  • Josie's Place, Schuylkill Haven
  • Lewie's, Frackville
  • Luckenbill's Family Restaurant, Schuylkill Haven
  • Manheim Diner, Schuylkill Haven
  • May's Drive In, Ashland
  • Mountaineer Fire Company, Minersville
  • Park Restaurant, Shenandoah
  • Rainbow Hose, Schuylkill Haven
  • Robin's Diner, Schuylkill Haven
  • Steve & Mary's Family Restaurant, Minersville
  • Traci's Place, Sacramento
  • Valley Family Restaurant
  • White Birch Golf Course, Barnesville

Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 01/28/2019

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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 01/28/2019

Monday - Sunny - High in the Mid 30's
Monday Night - Snow Showers Overnight - Low in the Mid 20's 

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Tuesday - Snow; 3 to 5 Inches Expected - High in the Mid 30's
Tuesday Night - Snow Showers Ending - Low in the Single Digits

Wednesday - Clouds and Sun- High in the Teens
Wednesday Night - Clear - Low in the Negative Single Digits

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Thursday - Sunny - High near 10
Friday - Cloudy  - High in the Mid Teens
Saturday - Clouds and Sun with Increasing Clouds - High in the Upper 20's
Sunday - Cloudy with Showers - High near 40

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Sponsored by the Brush Strokes, Schuylkill Haven








Grover the Groundhog to Make Annual Weather Predication at Sweet Arrow Lake This Saturday

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Grover the Groundhog is still cozy and snoozing in his burrow but will emerge to at Sweet Arrow Lake County Park on Saturday, February 2, 2019 to make his annual weather prediction.


Breakfast will be available beginning at 7:30 a.m.

Following Grover’s prediction at 9:00 a.m., entertainment by Matthew Dodd will include stories and songs.

Enjoy a Chinese “Groundhog” Auction.

This program is free and open to the public and is suitable for all ages.

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Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Tuesday

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The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Tuesday.

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TUESDAY TO 1 AM
EST WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches.

* WHERE...Portions of central Pennsylvania.

* WHEN...From 1 AM Tuesday to 1 AM EST Wednesday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions, including during the morning commute on Tuesday. Be prepared for reduced visibilities at times.

This advisory includes the Counties of
Mifflin-Juniata-Tioga-Northern Lycoming-Sullivan-Southern Lycoming-Union-Snyder-Montour-Northumberland-Columbia-Perry-Dauphin-Schuylkill-Lebanon-Cumberland-
Including the cities of Lewistown, Mifflintown, Mansfield,Wellsboro, Trout Run, Laporte, Williamsport, Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Danville, Sunbury, Shamokin, Bloomsburg, Berwick,
Newport, Harrisburg, Hershey, Pottsville, Lebanon, and Carlisle

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Schuylkill County School Delays and Closings - 01/29/19

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Schuylkill County School Delays and Closings - 01/29/19

School Delays ans Closings for Tuesday, January 29, 2019


CLOSED TUESDAY

  • Blue Mountain
  • Child Development; Child Care Open
  • Gillingham Charter
  • Mahanoy Area
  • Marian Catholic
  • North Schuylkill
  • Schuylkill Haven
  • St. Ambrose
  • Trinity Academy



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Schuylkill County Snow Emergencies and Parking Bans - January 28, 2019

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Several Schuylkill County Municipalities have announced snow emergencies and parking bans ahead of  a winter storm on Tuesday, January 29th, 2018.

Mahanoy City - SNOW BAN - from 11:00pm Monday until 11:00pm Tuesday. No parking on Centre, Main, West South Streets, and Liberty

Shenandoah - **SNOW BAN in effect January 29th, 2019 at 3 am until 11 PM Tuesday night. No parking on Main St from Washington to Laurel and from West to White Street. Vehicles will be ticketed and towed.
St. Clair - There will be NO PARKING on the entire length of 2nd and entire length of Hancock Streets from Tuesday, January 29th at 6am until Wednesday, January 30th until 10am as a result of the projected winter storm. Violators will be ticketed and removed.

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Please send any weather related announcements to Skook News at skooknews@outlook.com.



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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 01/28/19

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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 01/28/19

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John M. "Lover" Tassone, 58, of Auburn, passed away Friday at his residence.

John was born in Pottsville, Aug. 15, 1960, a son of Bridget J. Mason Tassone and the late George M. Tassone.

He was the husband of Mary J. Wenrich Tassone. The couple shared 24 wonderful years of marriage.

John was a graduate of Nativity BVM, Class of 1980. He then earned an associate's degree in accounting and business administration from Schuylkill Business Institute.

In addition to his father, John was preceded in death by a niece, Stephanie.

He was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ Summer Hill, Auburn. He also enjoyed playing wheelchair basketball, darts and pool. He played the harmonica and enjoyed the blues. He was a rabid Dallas Cowboys fan.

He was employed by Independent Living Centers, Anthracite Region, Berks County AIM Center for Independent Living and the Center for Independent Living of Central Pennsylvania.

John served on the Governor's Committee for the employment of people with disabilities. He also served as the president on the self-determination housing project. He served on the board of Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation and Transportation Alliance. He was also a governor-appointed board member of Pennsylvania statewide independent living council, the director of operations at Schuylkill Transportation System and a coordinator for the Schuylkill County LINK.

John achieved all of these things to benefit people with disabilities, despite years of dealing with constant, chronic pain.

In addition to his wife and mother, John is survived by a sister, Inez Dombrowski, wife of James, of Pottsville; two brothers, George M. Tassone Jr., husband of Linda Tassone, of Pottsville, and Louis Tassone, of Pottsville. He is also survived by nieces and nephews; his beloved dog, Betsy.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at St. Paul's United Church of Christ Summer Hill, Auburn, with Pastor Kenneth McDowell officiating. A visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until the time of the service Thursday. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's United Church of Christ Living Memorial Fund, Auburn, PA 17922. Interment will follow at Summer Hill Cemetery.

Geschwindt-Stabingas Funeral Homes Inc. has been entrusted with arrangements.

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Nancy K. Reed, 76, of Center St., Donaldson, passed away on Monday, January 28, 2019 in the MS Hershey Medical Center.

Born on May 2, 1942 in Donaldson, she was a daughter of the late Edward and Mae Morgan Kimmel.

She was a graduate of Donaldson High School and was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Donaldson.

Nancy loved sprint car racing, her cats and dogs and crocheting.

Preceding her in death were her husband Robert L. Reed, Sr. in 2016; a great granddaughter Alexia Lymaster; 6 brothers: Edward, William, Marlin, Ronald, Kenneth and Robert; two sisters, Betty and Gladys.

Surviving are two sons, Robert Jr. and wife Jodi Reed of Tremont, Jeffrey Reed of Pottsville; daughter, Jodi Reed and companion Mike Kroh of Donaldson; 10 grandchildren, Jacqueline, Brett, Donavan, Aaron, Randy, Heather, Liliahna, Ashlee, Weston, Erika; 2 great grandchildren; sister, Shirley Wolfgang of Pine Grove.

Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at 2:30 P.M. at the H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove with Rev. Krista Roehrig officiating. There will be a visitation on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 from 1:30 P.M. until 2:30 P.M. at the Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Donaldson Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer contributions be made to Zion Lutheran Church, c/o Frank Mohn, 19 E. Center St., Donaldson, Pa, 17981 in her memory.

You may send condolences to the family at our website www.hlsnyderfuneralhome.com

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Elizabeth M. “Betty” Shirey, 91, of Pottsville, formerly of Port Carbon, passed away on Saturday at home.

Born in Saint Clair, she was a daughter of the late David Evans and Matilda Shirey. She was a graduate of St. Stephen’s High School, Port Carbon. She was employed in the local garment industry.

She enjoyed crocheting and crafts.

Preceding her in death was her husband, Robert L. Shirey, on December 19, 2002.

Betty is survived by four sons, Thomas Shirey (spouse, Tina), Pottsville, Robert Shirey (spouse, April), Pottsville, David Shirey (spouse, June), Pottsville, and Gary Shirey (spouse, Pam), Virginia. She is also survived by a brother, David Evans (spouse, Patricia), Port Carbon; two sisters, Joan Dalton, Pottsville, and Rita Fenstermacher, Pottsville; nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Friday at 1:30 P.M. at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, East Hanover Township.

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Mary Bickelman, 91, of Jonestown, Cass Township, passed away on Saturday at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Schuylkill – East.

Born in Black Heath, Cass Township on February 5, 1927, she was a daughter of the late John and Antonia Pellish Depsky. She attended Cass Township schools, leaving school at the age of 16 to help support her family by working in the local garment industry. .

Well known as the family’s best dancer, Mary could do the polka with the best in the area. She was also known for her world-class halupkis which were shared among family and friends over the years.

She was a member of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, Minersville.

Mary was married to Carl W. Bickelman on November 20, 1954. After celebrating 61 years of marriage, he preceded her in death on May 8, 2016. She was also preceded by a grandson, Ryan John Bickelman, on October 19, 1991. She was the last of her siblings, having survived five brothers, Paul Depsky, Michael Depsky, Leo Depsky, Steve Depsky and John Magic; six sisters, Anna Sule, Stella Depsky, Helen Gontarchick, Catherine Lingle, Jean Poppert and Amelia Torola.

Surviving are two sons, John Bickelman (spouse, Diane), Wayne Township, and Joseph Bickelman (spouse, Lisa), Primrose, Cass Township; six grandchildren, Jillian and Kirsten Bickelman, Melissa Giuffre (spouse, Giuseppe), Joe and Joshua Bickelman; four great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Alexa, Max and Luke Giuffre; nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her future granddaughter-in-law, Tiffani Geist, who was her primary caregiver in the last years of her life.

Relatives and friends may call at Dutcavich Funeral Home, 200 Sunbury Street, Minersville, on Thursday from 6:00 A.M. until 9:15 A.M. Requiem Divine Liturgy will be held in St. Nicholas Church, 415 Front Street, Minersville, at 10:00 A.M. The family prefers contributions to St. Nicholas Church or to South Cass Fire Company, 15 Water Lane, Pottsville. Interment will be in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Branch Township.

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James G. Chistakoff, 86, of Branch Township, passed away on Sunday at home.

Born in Yorktown, Carbon County, he was a son of the late George J. Chistakoff, Sr. and the late Sally Ann Yanick Chistakoff. He was the valedictorian of the Class of 1950 at Reilly Township High School. He worked for Continental Can Company, Paterson, New Jersey until retiring in 1980.

He was a member of St. John Polish National Catholic Church, Frackville, where he had served as the vice-chairman of the church committee.

Preceding him in death were his wife of 56 years, the former Helen Spirko, on October 1, 2016; a son, James Chistakoff, Jr.; a daughter, at birth; an infant sister, another sister, Marion Baker, a brother, George Chistakoff, Jr.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Rosemarie Neidlinger; two grandchildren, Desiree Smith and Alex Neidlinger. He is also survived a brother, Leonard Chistakoff, Phoenix Park; nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to offer comfort and support to Jim’s family on Saturday evening from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Dutcavich Funeral Home, 200 Sunbury Street, Minersville. Memorial services will be at 6:00 P.M. with Rev. Christopher M. Zelonis officiating.

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Ruth E. Hauck, 85, a former resident of Zion Grove and Nuremberg, passed away Sunday morning, January 27, 2019 at the Butler Valley Manor in Drums, where she was currently a guest.

Born in Nuremberg on April 9, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Mabel (Gutshaw) Schaluch. She was a former member of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Nuremberg and was a lifelong homemaker.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Ralph Hauck, and by a daughter, Lisa and by brothers Samuel Schlauch, Richard Schlauch and Alvin Schlauch.

She is survived by her daughters, Nancy Geising of Fern Glen, Beverly Baker of Zion Grove, Bonnie Wagner of Nuremberg, Sharon Holland of Fern Glen, Kathy, wife of George Kreisher of Girardville, Robin Gilbert of Ringtown, Brenda Berlanda of Nuremberg, and by a brother, Donald Schlauch of Mt. Grove and a sister Nancy Broyles of Tennessee.

She is also survived by grandchildren, great grandchildren and great- great-grandchildren along with nieces and nephews.

A funeral services will be held on Monday, February 4th at 11 AM at the Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, 412 West Main Street, Ringtown. Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing from 9-11 AM prior to the service Monday.

Ruth will be laid to rest at the Nuremberg Cemetery, immediately following the services.

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Police Investigating Attempted Burglary in Ryan Township

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State Police are investigating an attempted burglary of a home in Ryan Township.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, someone attempted to gain access to a home on Orchard Road on Monday, January 29, 2019.

Police say the suspect(s) attempted to gain access the home by breaking a rear window.

Anyone with information should contact the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville at (570) 874-5300.

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Michael J. O'Connor & Associates Welcome New Attorney to their Staff

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The attorneys and staff of Michael J. O’Connor & Associates, LLC are proud to welcome James M. O’Connor, Esq. to their legal team.


He is a graduate of Marian Catholic High School, Tamaqua, PA, where he was a proud member and captain of the Marian Colts Football Team. He also served as Vice-President of the student body.

James graduated as a Dean’s List student from Villanova University with a BA in Political Science. He was a member of the Villanova Wildcats football team. Among his athletic awards, James was named as one of The Anthracite League’s Top Offensive Lineman of the Decade and played on the 2006 Shenandoah Valley District XI football Championship Team. He is also the honored recipient of the Carbon County Cancer Fighters.

James O’Connor attended law school at The Pennsylvania State University Dickinson School of Law. He is admitted to practice law in all Pennsylvania courts. He will be based out of the firm’s Frackville office, but deals with cases across the entire state from all of the firm’s 17 office locations.

Attorney James O’Connor handles cases involving workers’ compensation, personal injury, auto accidents, social security disability, criminal and DUI cases.

James, a life-long resident of Frackville, Schuylkill County, is the son of Michael J. O’Connor, Esquire and Patricia O’Kane O’Connor and the grandson of John J. O’Connor, Frackville. He is a member of the James A. Hogan Council Knights of Columbus, Frackville and the Schuylkill Assembly 4th Degree, Pottsville.

The Law Offices of Michael J O’Connor & Associates, LLC has been serving Pennsylvania for over 29 years. Practicing mainly workers’ compensation, personal injury, and social security disability, the firm has focused on helping injury victims throughout the state from all of its 17 office locations in Pennsylvania

Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 01/29/19

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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 01/29/19

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Tuesday

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EST THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Snow. Snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, with localized amounts up to 6 inches on the ridges of Schuylkill County, are expected.

* WHERE...The Susquehanna Valley.

* WHEN...Until 8 PM EST this evening.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions, especially during the afternoon and evening commute. Be prepared for reduced visibilities at times.


Includes the counties of Mifflin-Juniata-Southern Lycoming-Union-Snyder-Montour-Northumberland-Columbia-Perry-Dauphin-Schuylkill-Lebanon- Cumberland-

Tuesday Night - Cloudy - Low in the Single Digits

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Wednesday - Cloudy with Snow Showers Early; Clearing Late - High near 20
Wednesday Night - Clear - Low near 5

Thursday - Sunny - High near 10
Thursday Night - Cloudy - Low near 0

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Friday - Cloudy, Maybe a Snow Shower - High near 20
Saturday - Cloudy - High in the Mid 20's 
Sunday - Sun and Clouds - High near 40
Monday -

Schuylkill County School Delays and Closings - 01/30/19

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Schuylkill County School Delays and Closings - 01/30/19

School Delays ans Closings for Wednesday, January 30, 2019

3-Hour Delay Wednesday

  • Mahanoy Area

2-Hour Delay Wednesday

  • Assumption BVM
  • Blue Mountain
  • Marian Catholic
  • Minersville Area
  • North Schuylkill
  • Pine Grove Area
  • Pottsville Area
  • Schuylkill Haven Area
  • St. Ambrose
  • St. Clair Area
  • Tamaqua Area
  • Tri-Valley
  • Trinity Academy
  • Williams Valley



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Wind Chill Advisory Issued for Schuylkill County

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The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Advisory from Early Wednesday Through Thursday.

WIND CHILL ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 5 AM WEDNESDAY TO NOON EST THURSDAY...

* WHAT...The snow has tapered to just scattered flurries. No additional accumulation is expected. Very cold wind chills expected. Expect wind chills as low as 20 below zero.

* WHERE...Portions of central Pennsylvania.

* WHEN...From 5 AM Wednesday to noon EST Thursday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 01/29/19

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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 01/29/19

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Ruth Ann Miller, age 84, of Port Carbon, PA passed away Saturday, January 26th, 2019 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Allentown.

Born in Port Carbon, PA on September 24, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Jacob and Ruth (Salen) Krebs.

Ruth was a graduate of Soldier's Memorial High School, Class of 1952. She was a member of Jerusalem Lutheran Church in Schuylkill Haven and a member of the Port Carbon Senior Citizens.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Arlene V. Krebs.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 60 years, Lee A. Miller, Port Carbon and her daughter Tammy and her husband Kevin Seibert, Pine Grove.

A Religious Service will be held at Jthe erusalem Lutheran Church in Schuylkill Haven at 10:30AM on Friday, February 1st, with Rev. David Rowe officiating.

Relatives and Friends are invited to a viewing on Friday morning from 9-10:30AM at Jerusalem Lutheran Church.

Interment will be held in the Schuylkill Memorial Park Cemetery in Schuylkill Haven.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Jerusalem Lutheran Church 255 Dock Street Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972.

The Robert A Evans Jr Funeral Home 208 Pike St Port Carbon is in charge of arrangements.

Please send condolences to www.robertaevansjrfh.com
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Clayton Elwood Hoke, age 97, of Country Meadows, Mechanicsburg, formerly of Valley View, Hershey and Boiling Springs, passed away Sunday Jan 27, 2019 at his residence.

He was born on May 28, 1921 in Big Run, PA, a son of the late Maude B. (Shade) and the late Harry "Hoyt" J. Hoke.

Clayton was a 1940 graduate of the former Hubley Twp High School.

He was a Navy veteran of World War II, serving stateside as Property and Supply Officer for the Civil Service Commission, Washington D.C.

He was a supply supervisor for the Letterkenny Army Depot, Chambersburg until his retirement.

Clayton enjoyed collecting coins and baseball cards, and was an avid gardener. He loved his family and was passionate about genealogy. He was very devoted to his wife and children..

His wife Lorraine "Pet" Hoke passed away in 2006. He was also preceded in death by his parents; a son, Clayton E Hoke, Jr; two sisters Violet Herb and Dorothy Dunleavy; five brothers, Harry, Marlin, Leon, and Charles Hoke, and James Dunleavy; and son in law, JR Reed.

Clayton is survived by three daughters Jane L Hoke, Hummelstown; Harriet L Reed, New Cumberland; and Susan J. Hoke and her husband Bill Goshorn, South Carolina; a son, Jack A Hoke, Camp Hill; seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

Services will be held at Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, 200 West Main Street, Valley View, on Saturday, Feb 2, at 2:30pm with Pastor Dennis Fulk officiating.

A viewing will be held at the funeral home from 1:30 pm until the time of service.

Burial will be made in St. Andrew's Cemetery, Valley View.

Memorial contributions can be made to Celtic Hospice, 900 Century Dr #201, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.

Condolences can be left for the family at www.buffingtonreed.com.


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Ruth A. (Shistel) Mahmod, 74, of Lower William Penn, Shenandoah, passed away Monday morning at Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital, Coal Township.

Born in Shenandoah, September 6, 1944, she was a daughter of the late Christian J. and Alice J. (Jones) Shistel.

She was a 1962 graduate of the former J.W. Cooper High School, Shenandoah.

Ruth was employed in the warranty department at the former Sears Department Store, Frackville.

She was a member of the former William Penn United Methodist Church.

Preceding her in death, in addition to her parents, were her husband, Raymond K. “Ray” Mahmod; three sons, Christopher A., John A. and Steven R. “Fuzzy” Mahmod; three sisters, Katherine Barrett, Dorothy Moyer and Marilyn Kaylor.

Surviving are her granddaughter, Melinda Mahmod, of Girardville; her grandson, Matthew Mahmod, of Girardville; brother, Joseph Shistel and his wife, Donna, of Barnesville; three sisters, Theresa Lane, of Frackville, Joan Zakarevicz, of Deer Lake, and Georgine Klim, of Reading; two daughters-in-law, Nicole Bowers, of Girardville, and Colleen Mahmod, of William Penn, Shenandoah; nieces and nephews.

Religious services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday at Walukiewicz-Oravitz Fell Funeral Home, 132 S. Jardin St., Shenandoah. The Rev. Mindy Heppe will officiate. Interment will follow in Odd Fellow’s Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights. A visitation will be held from 10 until 11:30 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Walukiewicz-Oravitz Fell Funeral Home, Shenandoah, is in charge of the arrangements.



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Rush Township Police Apprehend Fugitive Wanted in Schuylkill and Luzerne Counties

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On Tuesday, the Rush Township Police executed an arrested warrant and apprehended a fugitive wanted in Schuylkill and Luzerne Counties.

According to Chief Kenneth Zipovsky, on Tuesday, January 29, 2018, the Rush Township Police executed an arrest warrant on a person wanted by the department for violations stemming from a 2015 offense.

This fugitive apprehension was made possible by collaboration with the Narcotics and Patrol Divisions of the Hazleton Police Department.

Pedro Crespo, 23 was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Stephen Bayer on a warrant charging him with DUI, False Identification to Law Enforcement, and other related charges. He was committed to prison in lieu of $10,000.00 cash bail.

A preliminary hearing on this case is scheduled for March 5th at 10:45am.

Crespo was also arraigned on Tuesday by Luzerne County Magisterial District Judge Zola, and was committed to the Luzerne County Correctional Facility in lieu of $50,000.00 cash bail for drug charges filed by the Hazleton Police Department Narcotics Division.

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Police Investigating Attempted Robbery at Knifepoint near Minersville

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The Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven are investigating an attempted robbery at a store in Kings Plaza near Minersville.


According to the Police, around 5:40pm on Tuesday, January 29th, 2019, a male walked into the AC Boardwalk, located in King's Plaza, Norwegian Township, near Minersville, and approached the counter.

While holding a knife, the male told a female employee he "wanted all the money" and asked about money in the back room of the store. 

When the female employee at the store told him she didn't have any money and all the other money was locked in a safe, the male fled the store.

The male was reported to have fled through King's Plaza and towards Minersville on Westwood Street.  Police were able to track his direction partially through footprints in the snow.

The suspect was described as a white male, approximately 6'3" tall, skinny build, wearing a navy hooded sweatshirt, gloves, and something black over his face.

The weapon was described as a small curved knife with approximately a 5-inch bronze or gold blade with a design on it.

State Police are still investigating the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven at 570-754-4600.

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Governor Wolf Proposes Raising Minimum Wage to $12 an Hour by July

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On Wednesday, Governor Tom Wolf proposed to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $12 an hour.

The boost in pay for one million workers would enable tens of thousands of people to work their way off of public assistance, saving taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars and growing the economy for everyone.

“Pennsylvania must be a place where hard work is rewarded. But our minimum wage hasn’t changed in a decade and too many hardworking people are struggling to get by,” said Governor Wolf. “Raising the minimum wage lets people afford the basics, like food, rent and transportation.

“It also lets people work their way off of public assistance rather than having taxpayers subsidizing employers that are paying poverty wages. One fair wage saves tax dollars, grows the middle class and creates new customers for businesses, which benefits all of us.”

Pennsylvania’s minimum wage has been stuck at $7.25 an hour since 2009. Over the decade, 29 states, including all of our neighboring states, have raised the wage floor for their workers.
The governor’s proposal raises the wage to $12 an hour on July 1, 2019 with gradual 50 cent increases until reaching $15 an hour in 2025. New Jersey recently became the fourth state on a pathway to a $15 minimum wage.

When workers are paid fairly, fewer people will need public assistance. At $12 an hour, nearly 17,000 adults will leave Medicaid next year and another 51,000 the following year.
A portion of the savings will be re-invested to provide at least a $12 minimum wage for workers providing Department of Human Services-supported childcare and home care for seniors and people with disabilities.

With workers earning more and leaving the public safety net, taxpayers will save $36 million in Medicaid costs next year and $119 million the following year. The savings are achieved without raising taxes or increasing the size of government.

“These workers and their families would earn an additional $9.1 billion over the next five years, money that they will spend in their communities in support of businesses,” said Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione. “This new prosperity would benefit people from all walks of life – all ages, all races, all religions, and both women and men. It would help workers in our major cities, those who live in the suburbs, and our rural workforce. “

“I help seniors stay in their homes instead of going into a nursing home,” Stephanie Williams, a home care worker said. “It’s important work, but I only make $10.50 an hour and have to rely on friends to be able to pay my bills. Raising the minimum wage would mean I wouldn’t struggle just to survive anymore.”

Governor Wolf also wants the state to transition to one fair minimum wage for all workers, as tipped workers are currently forced to survive on only $2.83 an hour plus tips. Tipping would continue, but workers, typically women, would not have to rely solely on consumers. Tipped workers are twice as likely to live in poverty compared with the overall workforce, and nearly half rely on public assistance. Pennsylvania’s tipped wage has been unchanged for 21 years, while seven other states have eliminated the subminimal wage for tipped workers.

“Tipped workers are not making enough, and in some cases, they have to endure harassment or worse, so they can make a livable wage,” said Governor Wolf. “This is a moral failing. These workers deserve a fair wage and they’ve waited long enough. I’m tired of standing by and watching tipped workers get cast aside because we’ve been afraid to speak the truth.”

“I’m honored to link arms with the Governor, my colleagues and civic and religious groups to raise the minimum wage,” said Rep. Patty Kim. “We can’t ignore the million low-wage workers in Pennsylvania that are working hard but come up short every month. They’re not living paycheck to paycheck but rather half of a paycheck to half of a paycheck. My bill will eventually raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour.”

Last year the governor put a similar plan into action for state workers. In June, he signed an executive order raising the minimum wage for employers under his jurisdiction to $12 an hour on July 1, 2018. The wage will gradually rise to $15 an hour in 2025.

“We have seen from the states that surround Pennsylvania that raising the minimum wage to a livable wage for hardworking persons is the right thing to do,” said Sen. Art Haywood. “Pennsylvanians will be able to afford rent, food, medicine, and be pulled out of poverty. Raising the minimum wage will create jobs from the big increase in spending.”

Schuylkill County Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Methamphetamine in Schuylkill and Berks Counties.

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On Tuesday, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Marquese Whitted, 33, of Schuylkill County, pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Court Judge A. Richard Caputo, to participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin and methamphetamine in Schuylkill and Berks Counties.

According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Whitted admitted to conspiring with others to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin (which is equivalent to more than 4,000 retail bags of heroin) and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine during April through October of 2016.

Whitted was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2017, as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and local police in Schuylkill County. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa is prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 01/30/19

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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 01/30/19

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Catherine I. Lynch, 95 of Orwigsburg, formerly of Deer Lake, died Tuesday at Orwigsburg Center, Orwigsburg.

She was born January 25, 1924 in Pottsville a daughter of the late Fredrick and Bessie Shappell Reinhart.

She was a graduate of Pottsville High School.

She was a manager at the former Mootz Candy, Pottsville, prior to retiring.

Catherine was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville.

She was preceded in by her husband Joseph E. Lynch, Jr., on December 25, 2008; a daughter, Susan Foley; 3 brothers, Bill, Harry, and Leo Reinhart; a sister, Betty Seifert; Surviving are her daughter, Kathleen Bieber and her husband Keith, Schuylkill Haven; 6 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 11AM from St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville. Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 10AM until the time of mass at the church. The family would prefer remembrances in the form of contributions made to the American Cancer Society, 712 Keyser Ave, Taylor PA, 18517. Interment will be at the convenience of the family at Calvary Cemetery, Pottsville.

Arrangements are under the care of James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville. Please share your memories and condolences with Catherine’s family by signing the guest book at www.jehumphreyfuneralhome.com

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