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State Police Investigating Shooting on Route 209 near Newtown/Branchdale

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The Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a reported shooting that occurred along Route 209 in Reilly Township on Sunday.


According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven, on Sunday, around 1:30pm, State Troopers were dispatched to Route 209 in Reilly Township for a shooting.

At the scene, the victim told troopers that the shooter was a white male, with black hair, wearing a black black jacket, black thin facial hair, and driving a 2015-2017 silver Mustang Convertible with the top down.  The vehicle may have a partial Pennsylvania Registration plate that includes FJY or FYP.  The same vehicle was also spotted in the borough of Tremont.

The police did not provide exact details of what occurred during the shooting.

Police say the incident is still under investigation.

PLCB to Close All Liquor Stores Until Further Notice Starting Tuesday Evening

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On Monday afternoon, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board announced they would be closing all liquor stores until further notice starting Tuesday evening.

The closures are being done to help slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

In a press release, it stated " the indefinite closure of all Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores and licensee service centers, effective at 9:00 PM Tuesday, March 17, 2020".

“This was a tremendously difficult decision to make, and we understand the disruption our store closures will have on consumers and licensees across the commonwealth,” said Board Chairman Tim Holden. “But in these uncertain and unprecedented times, the public health crisis and mitigation effort must take priority over the sale of wine and spirits, as the health and safety of our employees and communities is paramount.”

Additionally, sales at www.FineWineAndGoodSpirits.com will cease at 5:00 PM today to allow the PLCB to phase down operations of its Montgomery County fulfillment center. Orders already placed for delivery to non-store addresses will continue to be processed and delivered, however order processing and delivery will be delayed due to unusually high order volume. Orders designated for store delivery that have yet to leave the fulfillment center will be cancelled and refunds issued.

Toward the end of the month, the PLCB will re-evaluate its operations, guided by the strategy developed by the Governor’s Office and the Pennsylvania Department of Health.



Schuylkill County Obituaries for 03/16/2020

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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 03/16/2020

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Sterling Lamar Neidlinger, 86, of Winter Springs, Fla., passed away Friday, March 13, at South Seminole Hospital, Longwood, Fla.

Born Jan. 21, 1934, in Panther Valley, he was a son of the late Geneveiva "Jenny" Eifert.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Miriam Mae (Krammes) Neidlinger, on March 27, 1993.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by twin sons who passed away at birth, Larry and Lamar Neidlinger.

Sterling attended Cressona High School, and was a member of St. Mark's United Church of Christ, Cressona.

He served in the Army as a Specialist 3rd Class from 1954 to 1956.

Sterling was formerly employed by Losch, Schuylkill Haven, Monterey Manor, New Port Richey, Fla., and Richard Plumbing, Naples, Fla. He had worked as a plumber, pipefitter, welder and handyman.

He is survived by two sons, Kurt Neidlinger and wife, Kathie, Winter Springs, Fla., and Brian Neidlinger and wife, Cindy, Mechanicsville, Va. He is also survived by grandchildren, Molly Borer and husband, David, Shane Neidlinger, Brett Neidlinger, Cayla Inserra and husband, David, and Bradley Neidlinger; a great-granddaughter, Madelyn.

A Celebration of Life funeral service will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 21, at Ebling-Stabingas Funeral Home, Cressona, with the Rev. Kevin Fruchtl officiating. A viewing will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service Saturday at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Cressona Cemetery, Cressona.

At the family's request, donations in Sterling's memory may be sent to Alzheimer's Association , Greater PA Chapter, 2595 Interstate Drive, Harrisburg, PA 17110.

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William P. Fisher Jr., 66 of Ashland, PA passed away Saturday, March 14,2020 at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville,PA .
Born in Philadelphia,PA May 23,1953 the son of the late William P. and Dorothea (Kroll) Fisher.
He graduated from North Schuylkill High School and was a member of the United Methodist-Presbyterian Church, Ashland.
Surviving are his best friend and long time companion Mary Jo Gadinsky, Ashland; cousins and many friends. He will also be missed by his cats.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home, Ashland, PA is in charge of the arrangements.
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Terry R. Zehner, 60, of Tamaqua, passed away Friday, March 13, 2020, in St. Luke’s Hospital, Coaldale. Born in Pottsville, he was the son of the late Marlin G. and Betty Jane (Williams) Zehner. 

Prior to retiring, he was the lead driver and working foreman for Mondelez International Nabisco, Allentown, for 20 years. He was a 20 year Navy veteran having the rank of 1st Class Petty Officer AS1 and served as an aviation mechanic. 

He was a member of West Penn Rod and Gun Club, where he served as a past president and helped extensively with benefits and fundraisers. He was also a member of numerous clubs, including the Andreas Sporting Club, Beaver Run Rod and Gun Club, and the Orioles, both of Lehighton. Terry enjoyed riding his Harley and loved spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his brother Kenneth “Kenny”. 

Surviving are a son, Zachary and his wife Kaitlyn, of Lehighton; two daughters, Brittney, wife of Jim Pompa, of Palmerton, and Jordan, wife of Brandon Cummins, of Lehighton; three brothers, Gary and his wife Jean Marie, of Andreas, Francis “Peck” and his wife Barbara, of New Ringgold, and Brett, of Clamtown; two sisters, Nancy Zehner, of South Tamaqua, and Sandra, wife of Joe Fritz, of Clamtown; seven grandchildren and nieces and nephews. 

Memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, March 21, at the Hartman Funeral Home, 1791 West Penn Pike, Route 309, New Ringgold. Call noon-1pm. Military honors administered by the Lehighton UVO. Private interment. Contributions to benefit the children activities may be made in his name to the West Penn Rod and Gun Club, 1047 Clamtown Rd, Tamaqua, PA 18252. 

Arrangements are being handled by the Hartman Funeral Home, 1791 West Penn Pike, Rte. 309, New Ringgold. Online condolences may be made at www.hartmanfuneralhomeinc.com.
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Ferne L. Troup, age 92 of Deep Creek Road, Ashland, passed away Sunday, March 15, 2020 at Mount Carmel Senior Living Community.

She was born on September 21, 1927 at home, a daughter of the late Earl and Ida Yoder Merwine.

Ferne was a graduate of the former Hegins Township High School Class of 1945.

She was married to Delbert D. Troup for 51 years until his passing in 1996.

Ferne was a cherished member of St. John's "Kimmel's" Church, Barry Township, where she was active in the Ladies Guild.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Dennis; daughter, Karen Troup; and brothers Arthur, Palmer, Allen, Glen, and Lewis Merwine.

She is survived by son, Duane D. Troup, and wife Linda, Hegins; granddaughter, Tracy Derck, wife of Robert, Shamokin; four Great-Grandchildren, Toby Tobias, Kylee Lash, Jesse Lash, Alexis Troup.

Services will be held at Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Valley View, on Thursday March 19, at 11A.M.

A viewing will be held from 10 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Burial will be made in St. John's "Kimmel's" Cemetery.

Contributions can be made to St. John's "Kimmel's" Church Memorial Fund.

Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Valley View, is in charge of arrangements.

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

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These Obituaries are brought to you by
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory INC.



Abandoned Building Burglarized in North Manheim Township

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A building in North Manheim Township was vandalized.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven, prior to March 7th, 2020, unknown suspect(s) used a blunt object and entered an empty abandoned building on Keystoker Lane, near Schuylkill Haven.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the PSP at Schuylkill Haven at (570) 754-4600.

Suspects Fail at Attempted Robbery in Pottsville Park Plaza

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The Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven is investigating an attempted robbery at the Pottsville Park Plaza last week.

Police say the incident occurred on March 9th, 2020 around 1:00am, when a man was walking in the parking lot when two unknown males walked up to him and assaulted him.

The unknown male suspects attempted to take the man's wallet and phone but did not succeed.

The suspects then fled the scene in an unknown direction.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the PSP at Schuylkill Haven at (570) 754-4600.

Fire Crews Responding to Working Garage Fire in Ringtown

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Fire crews are responding to a working garage fire in Ringtown.


Just after 1:30am, emergency personnel were dispatched to 23 North Center Street, Ringtown for a 2nd alarm working garage fire that is endangering a home.

More information as it comes available.

Garage Fire Leads to Building Fire Early Tuesday in Ringtown

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A fire that started in a garage in Ringtown early Tuesday left one woman displaced after it spread to a nearby home.



Just after 1:30am, Tuesday, emergency personnel were dispatched to 23 North Center Street, Ringtown for a working garage fire that was threatening a home.

As Ringtown Fire Chief Joseph Gilbert arrived on scene, the fire had spread to the home, and it was upgraded to a 2nd alarm calling in additional units, as well as a tanker task force.

A man was rescued from a roof after he climbed up with a garden hose to try and put out the fire.

The fire was reported under control just after 2:30am, but not before destroying the garage and severely damaging the adjacent home.

According to the woman who lived in the home, she heard a popping sound outside, looked out her rear window and saw the garage on the fire and called 911.

Chief Gilbert said no injuries were reported.

As of 3:45am, fire crews were clearing the scene.

A cause was not determined as of this posting and the woman who lived in the home is said to be staying with family.

Photos and Story by J. Reed

























Dollar General Dedicates First Hour for Senior Customers

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As part of their new operating hours, Dollar General Stores will be dedicating their first hour of every day to senior customers.


Beginning Tuesday, Dollar General using the first hour of operations each day solely for the shopping needs of senior customers, who are one of the groups most vulnerable to the COVID-19 coronavirus.

In keeping with the Company’s mission of Serving Others, Dollar General wants to provide these at-risk customers with the ability to purchase the items they need and want at the beginning of each day to avoid busier and more crowded shopping periods.

Additionally, stores will close one hour earlier to allow staff time to clean.

“In keeping with our mission and our ongoing commitment to serve our communities, we are dedicating the first hour of each day to seniors. We appreciate our customers’ understanding of our decision and request they visit our stores later in the morning to allow at-risk populations the ability to purchase the items they need at affordable prices,” said Todd Vasos, Dollar General’s CEO. “During these unprecedented times, Dollar General is diligently working to meet the ongoing needs of our customers and communities. We are proud to live our mission and provide customers with everyday low prices on the household essentials that are used and replenished most often.”

Updated List of Free Lunch Programs for Students During School Closures

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The following School Districts have announces free lunches that are available for students around Schuylkill County.

This list was last updated on March 17th, 2020 at 9:00am.

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Mahanoy Area - Beginning Wednesday, March 18, 2020, free lunches will be served to our 18 years and younger community at two locations: The Mahanoy Area Transportation parking lot (where buses are parked) and the East End Park from 11:30am-12:30pm. This will be a grab and go type delivery. There will be no congregating to eat and you must exit the property as soon as you are given the lunch. No one is permitted on school grounds while we are closed.

Anyone 18 years or under is able to receive a free lunch; not just Mahanoy Area students.

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Pine Grove -  in partnership with Metz Culinary Management will be offering ALL Pine Grove Area School District students a free Grab-N-Go style bagged lunch beginning Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Students do not need to qualify for free or reduced lunch status to participate.

Free lunches will be distributed from the North End Volunteer Fire Company Parking Lot in Pine Grove as well as the Tremont Borough Building from 11:00am to 1:00pm.

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Ringtown and Union Township - St. John’s Lutheran Church is partnering with St Paul’s, Ringtown Rotary and Ringtown Food Pantry to provide lunches for Ringtown area school children Monday through Friday. The lunches will be available for pick-up from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. in the social hall of St. John’s Lutheran Church, 106 W. Main St. Call 570-889-3755 or 1-973-906-9636 for information. Calling ahead is appreciated so people can prepare enough food, but not calling ahead is not required for participation.
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Saint Clair Area School District -  WILL be serving lunches during the 2 weeks we are not in session in the following areas:
Arnot’s Addition - Cherry Street Parking Lot (11:30am to Noon)
Cumbola - (11:00am to 11:30am)
Middleport - Teener League Field (12:30pm to 1:00pm)
New Philadelphia - Outside Fire House (11:45am to 12:15pm)
Saint Clair School (11am to Noon)

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Shenandoah Valley - Grab and go-style lunches will be distributed at the elementary parent drop off area from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. beginning Wednesday

Lunches will include a sandwich, fresh fruit and vegetables and a milk carton. 

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Williams Valley School District

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
11:30am to 12:30 pm.

  • Williams Valley JR/SR High School
  • Williamstown Community Center
  • Wiconisco Firehouse

Mahanoy City Borough Hall Closed Until April 1st, 2020; Meetings Cancelled

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The borough of Mahanoy City has announced the temporarily closure of it's borough hall to the public.

The following statement was issued by the borough:

Mahanoy City Borough office will be closed to the public until April 1st, 2020 due to safety concerns of COVID-19. All essential workers will be in place and citizens can contact the borough office by phone with any concerns that can’t wait until April 1st and we will evaluate them on a case by case basis.

Community Day meeting for this week and the Home Rule Meeting scheduled for March 24th at 6:00 pm will be cancelled.

Boyer's Markets Announces Preferred Senior Citizen Shopping Hours and Operational Hours Changes

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On Tuesday, Boyer's Markets announced that they would be revising their current operating hours until further notice beginning on Wednesday, March 18th, 2020.

According to a press release, their store hours going forward will be 7:00am to 9:00pm at ALL locations.

They have also implemented PREFERRED SENIOR CITIZEN SHOPPING HOURS from 7:00am to 9:00am each day.

President of Boyer's Markets, Dean Walker said "We need all customers to cooperate and help support this program, by allowing these 2 hours to be exclusively for those 62 and older, so that we can provide the safest possible shopping experience for our Seniors."

PennDOT Extends Expiration Dates; Closes Drivers License Centers and Rest Areas; Suspends Construction Projects

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On Monday, The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that it is implementing the following operational changes in response to Governor Tom Wolf’s mitigation guidance regarding COVID-19.
All Driver License Centers and Photo License Centers in Pennsylvania will be closed for two weeks effective close of business on Monday, March 16.

These closures are in addition to those previously announced in Montgomery, Delaware, Dauphin, Bucks and Chester counties.

Additionally, expiration dates for driver licenses, identification cards, vehicle registrations, and safety and emission inspections will be extended:
  • Driver licenses, photo ID cards and learner’s permits scheduled to expire from March 16, 2020 through March 31, 2020, the expiration date is now extended until April 30, 2020.
  • Vehicle registrations, safety inspections and emissions inspections scheduled to expire from March 16 through March 31, 2020, the expiration date is now extended until April 30, 2020.
  • Persons with Disabilities Parking Placards scheduled to expire from March 16 through March 31, 2020, the expiration date is now extended until April 30, 2020.

These extensions are in addition to those announced in Montgomery, Delaware and Bucks and Chester counties.

All PennDOT District and County maintenance offices are closed. Additionally, construction projects have been suspended in all counties until further notice, however PennDOT crews are available to perform critical functions and emergency maintenance as needed.

All PennDOT rest areas and welcome centers statewide will be closed to the public effective 12:01 AM Tuesday, March 17, 2020. These rest area and welcome center closures are in addition to those previously announced in Montgomery, Delaware, Bucks and Chester counties.

CORONAVIRUS: 20 Additional Positive Cases in Pennsylvania; 96 Statewide

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On Tuesday, the Department of Health confirmed 20 new positive cases of the COVID-19 virus in Pennsylvania.


The new cases included:

- 2 in Allegheny County
- 1 in Beaver County
- 2 in Chester County
- 5 in Cumberland County
- 2 in Delaware County
- 2 in Montgomery County
- 2 in Philadelphia County
- 1 in Washington County

As of March 17th, 2020 at 3:15pm, no cases have been announced within Schuylkill County.

The current tally in Pennsylvania as of this posting from the Department of Health is 96.  The Department of Health also reported that 896 cases have been tested as negative.


Five Displaced After Fire in Mahanoy City

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Five people are displaced after a fire damaged two homes in Mahanoy City on Tuesday.

At 5:12pm, on Tuesday, Mahanoy City fire personnel were dispatched to 724 West Centre Street in the borough for a working structure fire.

The first crews on the scene found heavy smoke coming from multiple row homes and the fire was quickly upgraded to a second alarm.

Mahanoy City Fire Department Public Information Officer, Dave Truskowsky said firefighters encountered a fire in the basement of 724 that spread to the attic of the home.  The fire was mainly contained to the address, which sustained heavy fire, smoke, and water damage.  The home at 722 was reported to have sustained smoke and water.

The fire was reported under control at 6:22pm.

A family of four was said to have lived at 724 and is being assisted by the American Red Cross.  All of the family's animals were also rescued.

A woman who lived at 722 is said to be staying with family.

A State Police Fire Marshall has been called to investigate a cause of the fire.
































Geisinger Confirms Three Patients with Presumed Positive Result for COVID-19

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On Tuesday, Geisinger confirmed its first three patients with presumed positive results for the novel coronavirus that causes the COVID-19 illness.
Geisinger officials said they will be collaborating with the Pennsylvania Department of Health on the ongoing care and monitoring of the patients.

In a press release regarding the announcement, Geisinger would not say where the patients were from.

In reference to its first confirmed cases of COVID-19, Geisinger’s president and CEO, Jaewon Ryu, M.D., issued the following statement:

“Guided by months of preparation and the expertise of Geisinger’s staff, proper protocols in line with infection control best practices were followed during the patients’ care. Because of Geisinger’s extensive and ongoing preparedness, all of our facilities remain safe places for our employees, patients and visitors alike. All members of our communities should feel comfortable seeking care at Geisinger hospitals and clinics.”

Geisinger experts continue to ask that before visiting a doctor’s office, convenient care clinic or emergency department, people should call their primary care doctor’s office or Geisinger’s 24/7 novel coronavirus hotline at 570-284-3657 if they may have been in contact with someone with COVID-19 or if they have:
  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Shortness of breath

Schuylkill County Obituaries for 03/17/2020

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Schuylkill County Obituaries for 03/17/2020

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Albert Thomas Barnes, Sr. 85, a lifelong Pottsville, PA, resident, joined Patricia, his wife of 65 years, in their eternal home on March 15, 2020. He passed away surrounded by family at his daughter's home in Kansas City, MO.

Albert was born December 18, 1934, in Pottsville, PA, the eldest of four children of Albert T. and Dorothy (Powell) Barnes. He proudly served in the U.S. Army. Albert founded Versa-Tron Service in Minersville, PA in 1973, and operated the business until his health no longer permitted. He was a member of The Salvation Army, Pottsville Corps. He was also a longtime member and past club President of the Pottsville Kiwanis, and served many years on the board of directors of the Manheim Township Sewer Authority.

Along with his parents, Albert was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Ann (Schaeffer) Barnes; infant daughter, Patricia Ann Barnes; and siblings, Harriet, Robert and Richard.

Survivors include four children, Cynthia Ann Foreman (Bill) of Kansas City, MO, Thomas James Barnes, Sr. (Denise Koscil) of Cressona, PA, Randy Allen Barnes (Angela) of Kansas City, MO, and Albert Thomas Barnes, Jr. (AnnMarie) of Minersville, PA; 15 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, a great-great grandson, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services are being held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday at Grabowski Funeral Home, Schuylkill Haven. A viewing will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of services. Interment with military honors will follow on the grounds of Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to The Salvation Army, Pottsville Corps, 400 Sanderson Street, Pottsville, PA 17901.

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Richard Ray Snyder, 91, of Orwigsburg, passed away Tuesday, March 17th, at Rosewood Nursing Home, Schuylkill Haven. Richard was born in Schuylkill Haven on February 23rd, 1929, a son of the late Elsie (Bolton) and Raymond Snyder. He was the husband of Mildred Fay (Schrader) Snyder. They were married December 13th, 1959.

He was a member of Zion’s Red Church Orwigsburg. He served in the US Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Thule, Greenland. He worked as a mechanic at Alcoa for 20 years, as well as, Hetran/Shalmet as a welder for over 15 years. Richard was also the secretary/treasurer for West Brunswick Township for almost 30 years. He was a Boy Scout volunteer for many years. He was a member of the DR Shaull Hunting Camp in Centre County, as well as, a lifelong member of the Hamburg Fish and Game Association.

In addition to his wife, Mildred, of 61 years, Richard is survived by a daughter, Joy R. Kramer, wife of Randy, three sons Tommy R. Snyder, husband of Cheryl, Jay R. Snyder, husband of Trina, and Terry W. Snyder, husband of Robyn. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Jesse Snyder, husband of Jessica, Jarred Snyder, companion of Maggie, and Sarah Kramer; six step grandchildren - Melissa, Kristen, Tracy, Jamie, Joshua, and Kevin. Also, fourteen great grandchildren. He is survived by cousins and a step brother, Ralph Hafer, and other step siblings.

Richard was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed teaching his grandchildren how to fish. He also enjoyed bowling, playing cards, playing mini golf, and watching the Phillies.

A Religious Service will be held at Hamilton-Breiner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Orwigsburg, on Saturday, March 21st at 11 AM with Rev Kenneth T. Melber Jr. officiating. The public is invited to call from 9 AM until time of service at the funeral home. Internment, with Military Honors will follow at Zion’s Red Church Cemetery, Orwigsburg.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Zion’s Red Church, Orwigsburg in Richard’s memory.
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Dorothy Leona Faust, 87, of Pottsville, formerly of New Ringgold, passed away Monday, March 16th, one day before her 88th birthday.

Dorothy was born in Pinedale on March 17, 1932, a daughter of the late Elizabeth K. (Guris) and Irwin C. Kramer. She was the widow of Robert Samuel Faust.

She was a member of Christ Church McKeansburg and a graduate of Orwigsburg High School, class of 1950. She was retired from Montgomery Ward of Kingston, NY as an Inventory Control specialist and was an avid bridge player

Dorothy is survived by two daughters, Kathleen L Downey, wife of Harry of Spotsylvania, VA, Linda B. Reitmann of Centerville, OH and a son, Thomas R. Faust., husband of Susan of Schuylkill Haven.

Dorothy is also survived by seven grandchildren, Michael and Matthew Downey, Jonathan, Jeffrey and Brian Reitmann, Lauren and Ethan Faust, four great grandchildren, Edith, Amelia, Ingram, Mina.

She was predeceased by her son, Kurt M. Faust

Services are private at the convenience of the family. A celebration of life service will be held at the church at a later date. Hamilton - Breiner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. Orwigsburg has been entrusted with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ Church McKeansburg, 6 South Race Street, McKeansburg, PA 17960
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William Milyo Sr., 74 of Pitman, passed away Sunday at his home.

Born in Heckchersville, he was a son of the late Michael and Helen Mullock Milyo Sr.

He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, Minersville. He was a graduate of the former Cass Twp. High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War and was a heavy equipment operator.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years the former Geraldine Schoffstall; 3 children, William Jr., Fleetwood, Jody, Minersville and Jason, Pottsville; 4 grandchildren, Jacob, Joseph, Dakota and Parker; 2 great grandchildren, Ava and Xander; a brother Michael, Washington St and a sister Mary Hughes, Millersburg; nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service will be held Saturday at 10:30 AM at the Donald J, Butler Funeral Home, 328 Sunbury St., Minersville. Reginald Leibensberger S.A.L.M. will officiate. Relatives and friends can call at the Funeral Home on Saturday from 8AM until the time of the service. Interment will be in Mt. Peace Cemetery, Minersville..

To offer condolences to the family or to light a candle in William’s memory, visit us at www.donaldjbutlerfh.com

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Richard J. Shafransky, 71, of Shenandoah passed away on Sunday, March 15th at the Lehigh Valley Medical Center Cedar Crest, Allentown. Born in Maizeville on October 18th, 1948 he was the son of the late John Shafransky and Jean Pasipanko.

Richard was a 1966 graduate of the former J.W. Cooper High School in Shenandoah. He had a passion for music and played the guitar. He played in several bands including the Mark V band.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-nephew, JW.

Surviving are his sisters, Jessica Barraza and her fiancé Jim – Ringtown and Lori Hix with Bob – Texas. 1 step-niece – Natalie and 1 step-nephew – Sean.

Graveside Services will be conducted on Thursday, March 19th at 10:30am in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights and will be officiated by Pastor Mindy Heppe.

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Edward Mehlberger, 67, of Sheppton, passed away Tuesday, March 17th, 2020 at his residence.

As per Edward's wishes, no public services will be held.

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These Obituaries are brought to you by
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory INC.



Three Charged After Shots Fired in Ashland Late Tuesday

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Three people have been charged after shots were fired Tuesday evening.


According to the Ashland Police Department, on Tuesday, March 17th, 2020, around 8:20pm, Officer Weikel was dispatched to the 1400 Block of Walnut Street for a reported disturbance.

While responding, Weikel was advised of shots being fired.

In the course of the investigation, Officer Weikel learned that two females, Rhiannon Hennessy, 36, and Susan Dower, 48, both of Shenandoah, were causing a disturbance on the front porch of a home.

The two fled the area in a light colored SUV.  The vehicle turned the corner, headed toward Spruce Street and stopped.

The male driver of the SUV, identified as Shaun Long, 38, of Frackville, exited the vehicle, pulled out a black pistol, and fired one round toward the rear of the residence.  Long then walked a little further toward Spruce Street, and fired a second round toward the rear of the home.  Long then got back in the vehicle and fled the scene.

A short time later, Officer Weikel was informed the Saint Clair Police had the vehicle stopped in the area of Gasway on Route 61 South.

All the occupants were taken into custody and transported back to Ashland.

Officer Weikel prepared charges for Shaun Long, charging him with one felony count of discharging of a firearm into an occupied structure and 8 counts of recklessly endangering another person.

Long was arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge Reily and locked up in Schuylkill County Prison on $15,000 (10%) bail.

Rhiannon Hennessy and Susan Dower are both facing a charge of disorderly conduct.

Assisting Ashland Police during the incident were police officers from Butler Township, Frackville, Shenandoah, Girardville, West Mahanoy Township, Union Township, Saint Clair, Pottsville, Cass Township, Minersville, and the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville.

Excavator Stolen in Pine Grove Township

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The Pennsylvania State Police are investigating the theft of an excavator in Pine Grove Township on Monday.

According to the Schuylkill Haven Barracks, on March 16th, 2020, around 8:00pm, an unknown suspect(s) drove up to 482 Suedberg Road, in Pine Grove Township, just off the south offramp of Interstate 81, and loaded a 303.5 CAT mini excavator to their trailer.

The suspect(s) left in an unknown direction.

The value of the excavator is approximately $45,000.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police at (570) 754-4600.

CORONAVIRUS: 37 Additional Positive Cases in Pennsylvania; 1 in Berks County; 133 Statewide

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On Wednesday, the Department of Health confirmed 37 new positive cases of the COVID-19 virus in Pennsylvania.

From the 37 new cases, 1 of the cases has tested positive in Berks County.

As of March 18th, 2020 at 12:30pm, no cases have been announced within Schuylkill County.

The current tally in Pennsylvania as of this posting from the Department of Health is 133.  The Department of Health also reported that 896 cases have been tested as negative.


Carbon Monoxide Installations Postponed in Ashland and Girardville

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Organizers of a carbon monoxide detector installation drive in Ashland and Girardville have announced that it has been postponed.


According to Ashland Fire Chief Philip Groody, the drive that was schedule for April 18th, 2020 has been postponed until further notice due to the ongoing COVID-19 concerns.

The drive was a project between the Ashland Fire Department, Girardville Fire Department, Salvation Army, and American Red Cross.

Groody said even though it has been postponed, Ashland and Girardville residents can still reach out to the following to get there name on the list of installations:
  • Ashland residents can register by contacting Ashland Borough Hall at (570) 875-2411.
  • Girardville residents can register by contacting Chief Zangari at (570) 276-6922.
A new date for the installations will be announced at a later date.
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