One Person is in Custody After Pursuit Ends with U-Haul in a Ditch in Frackville
Schuylkill Students Earn Dean's List Honors from Kutztown University for the Spring 2020 Semester
- Jason Abati, Port Carbon, PA
- Carla Mae Abrachinsky, Mahanoy City, PA
- Meghan Elizabeth Artley, Shenandoah, PA
- Megan R Babinsky, Barnesville, PA
- Mickayla Nicole Backo, Morea, PA
- Erin N Batz, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Charles Richard Bechtel, Pottsville, PA
- Kay J Binder, New Ringgold, PA
- Amanda Nicole Bingaman, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Laura Bisco, Barnesville, PA
- Detrick M Borden, Tamaqua, PA
- Jenna Boyer, Orwigsburg, PA
- Micah J Boyer, Orwigsburg, PA
- Nikkole W Brown, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Brandi M Cieniawa, Shenandoah, PA
- Kaylee A Clauser, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Joie S Clews, Ringtown, PA
- Kelsey Conroy, Mahanoy City, PA
- Rachel M Conville, Pottsville, PA
- Julia Elizabeth Conville, Pottsville, PA
- Emily Kristin Debus, Pine Grove, PA
- Lauren N Deibert, Orwigsburg, PA
- Rebekah June Dolbin, New Ringgold, PA
- Kevin Michael Donton, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Karrison K Dubbs, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Sophia Duong, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Abigail Mariah Elsavage, Pottsville, PA
- Amanda Sue Farr, Auburn, PA
- Angela M Flack, Tamaqua, PA
- John J Franko, Tamaqua, PA
- Madison A Frye, Tamaqua, PA
- Alyssa L Frye, Tamaqua, PA
- Shane Michael Guers, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Amanda Lynn Guldin, Pottsville, PA
- Jackson Adolph Gunelson, Pottsville, PA
- Nathan Andrew Joseph Haller, Pine Grove, PA
- Roberta L Harris, Pottsville, PA
- Amanda S Johns, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Daniel Alexander Johns, Orwigsburg, PA
- Ty C Kistler, Tamaqua, PA
- Emmeline Grace Knowlan, New Ringgold, PA
- Carly M Kozacheck, Auburn, PA
- Jordan Anthony Kull, Orwigsburg, PA
- Victoria Lado, Orwigsburg, PA
- Cheyenne Celine Lehman, Pine Grove, PA
- Kaylee Marie Lindenmuth, Shenandoah, PA
- Alyssa Ann McDonald, New Ringgold, PA Kaitlin
- Samantha L Mcmullan, Pine Grove, PA
- Ryan P Murphy, Tamaqua, PA
- Reagan Alexandra Newswanger, Pine Grove, PA
- Hunter Alexis Parker, Hegins, PA
- Victoria Caroline Pascucci, Auburn, PA
- Spencer James Paukstis, Minersville, PA
- Jordan T Pettit, Orwigsburg, PA
- John Elliott Pettit, Orwigsburg, PA
- Tianna Marie Pucklavage, Coaldale, PA
- Andrew Joseph Puka, Frackville, PA
- Lindsay N Purcell, Pottsville, PA
- Jayson Santo Rago, Shenandoah, PA
- Anthony Jacob Ritzko, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Desiree L Rossi, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Boaz Rottet, Tamaqua, PA
- Connor Scott Ruch, Tamaqua, PA
- Cory Joseph Sanko, Gordon, PA
- Taylor N Schatz, Orwigsburg, PA
- Madeline M Schuettler, Pottsville, PA
- Kayla D Sherry, Tamaqua, PA
- Erika L Shuman, Minersville, PA
- Trevor R Smith, Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Joseph R Smith, Minersville, PA
- Zoe E Snyder, Tamaqua, PA
- Jacob Paul Staskowski, New Ringgold, PA
- Sophia M Staskowski, New Ringgold, PA
- Madison L Szczecina, Orwigsburg, PA
- Jesse Alma Grace Todero, Pine Grove, PA
- Daisy Mae Valentine, Tamaqua, PA
- Nicolas Anthony Vaupel, Auburn, PA
- Abby Rose Wertman, Auburn, PA
- Anna Whitbeck, Tamaqua, PA
- Avery John Woodford, Pottsville, PA
- Parker Zane Zimerofsky, Pottsville, PA
- Elizabeth Jane Zimmerman, Frackville, PA
- Christina Zvorsky, Orwigsburg, PA
State Police Investigating Lost Fire Company's Radio

Bloomsburg University Announces Modified Fall 2020 Semester
The plan also maximizes the use of classrooms for instruction while following social distancing guidelines, and allows for flexibility should there be a resurgence of COVID outbreaks during the coming year.
The semester will begin one week earlier than initially planned, and will consist of two six-week sessions in combination with a 12-week term. The full schedule to include finals week will be released as the new schedule is built. One-third of all courses will be offered within one of three sessions. BU will also offer a six-week online winter term.
“I would like to thank the faculty and staff that are working behind the scenes to make these decisions, “ said Rogers-Adkinson. “We want to make sure a quality educational experience occurs for all of our students. Due to social distancing guidelines this model maximizes contact times for students and faculty in face-to-face instruction.”
UPDATE: Pottsville Man Charged After Domestic Dispute Leads to Pursuit in Frackville

Ashland Clothing Factory to Close in August
Skook News Obituaries for 06/09/2020
Born in Philadephia, on July 11, 1980, he was a son of Richard F. and Catherine (Turner) Ryon, Sr.
He was a graduate of Blue Mountain High School, Class of 1998, and a 2002 graduate of Penn State University, where he received a Bachelor Degree in Business.
Peter was a partner and owner of the family business, Ryon Insurance Agency, Pottsville.
He was a member of the Schuylkill Country Club and Little Lake Harbor Yacht Club.
Peter enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time, but especially loved being a dad to Lily.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by a daughter, Lillian Mae Ryon, of Auburn and her mother, Danielle Ryon; two brothers, Richard Fox Ryon, Jr., of Orwigsburg and James Walker Ryon , husband of Courtney, of Pottsville; grandmother, Marcia Fox Ryon, of Key Largo, FL; nephews: Richard Turner Ryon, Jude Thomas Ryon, Walker Lund Ryon, and Anders James Ryon.
In accordance to Covid-19 CDC guidelines, family and friends are invited to gather for a memorial service on Friday, June 12th, at 11:00 a.m. at the Ryon residence: 148 Ryon Lane, Pottsville. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. The service will be outdoors, therefore, the family requests casual attire.
The family request contributions in Peter's memory be sent to: Sam L. Deegan CPA, 321 West Market St., Pottsville, 17901.
Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.lordbixler.com
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Christopher Jude Wickkiser, husband, father, son, brother, of Coaldale, Pennsylvania who grew up in Weatherly, passed away suddenly on Friday, June 5, 2020, at St. Luke's Miners Memorial in Coaldale, Pennsylvania at the age of 33 years.
Born on May 14, 1987 in Denville, New Jersey the son of Paul Michael and Annette M. (Grega) Wickkiser of Weatherly. Chris is also survived by his beloved wife of 9 years, Samantha M. (Yurchak) Wickkiser; his children whom he adored; son, Jaxon J. Wickkiser, daughters, Nora R. Wickkiser and Olivia R. Wickkiser; brother, Ryan M. Wickkiser of Weatherly; sisters, Noelle M. Rossi wife of Jeffrey of Weatherly, Kristyna M. Keifer wife of George of Drums. Many aunts, uncles and cousins also survive Jude.
A 2005 graduate of Marian Catholic High School, Chris was a proud member of the Colts football team. He earned his associates degree in Criminal Justice from Luzerne County Community College. Chris served valiantly in the United States Army combating the Global War on Terrorism in Afghanistan. He received numerous awards for meritorious service. Chris worked maintenance for Arytza Sanitation of Hazleton. Chris was an avid outdoorsman who liked to hunt , fish, and golf. He was a member of the Nesquehoning V.F.W.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services of 211 First Street Weatherly, Pennsylvania 18255. (570) 427-4231
A Private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday from Our Lady of Lourdes R.C.C. located at 318 Plane Street Weatherly, Pennsylvania 18255.
Interment will be in Union Cemetery, with Military honors bestowed.
The family will receive friends from 9:30 AM to 11:15 AM on Friday, June 12, 2020, at Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 211 First Street, Weatherly, Pennsylvania. All visitors are required to wear masks, and the staff will number those inside to 50 people at one time.
Memorials in Chris's name may be sent in care of his wife Samantha to 131 First Street Coaldale, Pennsylvania 18218. An educational fund will be established for Chris's children.
Online condolences or a fond memory may be expressed by visiting www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com
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2020 Schuylkill County Fair Cancelled; Fair Association Looks to 2021

considerable financial implications for non-compliance.
Governor Tom Wolf. Our fair welcomes over 35,000 guests annually, and after our staff, vendors, and
exhibitors would be accounted for on a daily basis, the number of allowed guests per day would be
minimal at best. There is a lack of any concrete guidance or regulations regarding what will be required of events after the “green phase” is terminated. Although some guidance has been released, it has come without an anticipated ending strategy. Frustratingly, available information changes by the day and makes things more unclear by its vagueness. This makes planning any event extremely difficult.
The negative financial impact caused by pre-fair revenue loss is crippling to our budget. As mentioned,
for some sponsors there is still uncertainty and for others there is a complete inability to remain
committed this year. Additionally, the significant financial outlay that must occur in the weeks leading up to the fair could never be recuperated if we were ultimately not permitted to operate or were forced to do so at such a reduced capacity. A loss of that magnitude could result in years of recovery efforts.
Our goal every year is to enhance your experience when visiting the fair. We do not feel it is in the best
interest of you, our valued guests, or ourselves, to offer you an event that is sub-par or completely
downscaled. We are not in the business of doing things halfway. We want you to get our very best, 100% of the time.
The primary mission of our organization since its early days at the Old County Farm has always been to
support our youth exhibitors in their agricultural education endeavors. Although we are unable to
produce the fair that you have come to know and love, this component has been the subject of intense
discussion.
We are proud to announce that the Fair and its partner organizations have developed several plans to
help to continue to meet that mission!
Gitman Bros. to Close Ashland Clothing Factory, Cutting 90 Jobs
According to Chris Olberding, President of Sales of Gitman, the Tom James Company made the decision to close the Ashland factory and informed their employees on Tuesday.
Olberding said that the company reached this decision due to the declining economic factors brought about by the coronavirus pandemic and the overall decline in the business that has been created.
"Gitman has a long and proud history in Ashland and we are very sorry to be ending it." Olberding said.
After 88 years in Ashland, the company is moving production of the Gitman Bros. and Gitman Vintage shirt brands to our Measure Up shirt facility in Lafayette, TN.
The Ashland employees will complete 2020 fall/winter production over the next two to three months, before beginning spring/summer 2021 production at Measure Up.
All the employees of the Ashland Factory will be offered a position at one of three out-of-state facilities which include the Lafayette, TN facility, a facility in Westminster, MD, or a facility Perth Amboy, NJ.
Olberding said "Although most people don’t realize it, Measure Up began providing custom and made-to-order services for Gitman dating back to the early 1990’s, so the Gitman DNA already runs deep in Tennessee. We anticipate that this heritage, coupled with the relocation of many skilled sewers to Measure Up, will provide for a seamless transition."
"We are saddened at the closure of our Ashland factory after so many years. At the same time, we are positive about the opportunities that come from incorporating the production of the Gitman Bros. and Gitman Vintage shirt brands at Measure Up. We look forward to building these brands side by side for the long term future." Olberding said.
High School, Youth, Collegiate, and Professional Sports Provided Guidance on Resuming Activities
“Pennsylvania has some of the best athletes and teams in the country and they can now begin to safely return to organized sports,” said Gov. Wolf. This guidance balances keeping student athletes safe from COVID-19 while allowing them to participate in an important part of their lives.
“This is another step toward reopening our state and getting things back on track. As students and teammates get ready to train and compete, it’s important that they follow precautions to protect each other and their community from the risk of COVID-19.”
The preliminary guidance is a starting point for summer sports teams and the Wolf Administration will continue to work with stakeholders. The guidance for fall, winter and spring sports seasons may be updated.
Public and private K-12 schools under the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) and the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association (PISAA) in the yellow and green phase can resume voluntary sports-related workouts. Schools must first develop an athletic health and safety plan in alignment with the Department of Education’s Preliminary Guidance for Phased Reopening of Schools guidance, that is approved by the local board of directors and posted on the school’s website.
Recreational and amateur sports teams in the green phase that are not affiliated with a K-12 school can hold in-person activities, including games and practices. Examples include basketball, hockey, field hockey, football, soccer, swimming, baseball, softball, lacrosse, gymnastics and kickball. Youth sports organizations should follow CDC guidelines.
Gatherings of all participants, including players, athletic staff, officials and spectators are limited to 25 in the yellow phase and 250, or 50 percent capacity, in the green phase, as outlined in the Process to Reopen Pennsylvania.
League and team staff must review CDC guidance for youth sports. Coaches and other adult personnel should wear face coverings and screen athletes for symptoms before practices and games. All participants must follow safe hygiene and social distancing practices, avoid unnecessary physical contact, and clean and disinfect equipment and facilities. Teams are encouraged to stagger drop-off and pick-up times at outdoor locations and designate entrances and exits to facilities.
Parents and other spectators should practice social distancing, wear face coverings and not enter the field or bench areas. Parents should monitor children for COVID-19 symptoms and evaluate children at higher risk for severe illnesses.
College sports sanctioned by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), including intramural and club sports, can resume in-person activity after developing an athletic health and safety plan in alignment with PDE’s Postsecondary Education Institutions and Adult Education Programs guidance.
Professional sports can resume immediately. Teams or leagues in the yellow phase, or if more than 250 people are on site in the green phase, must have a COVID-19 safety plan approved by the Department of Health.
The guidance released today provides additional information.
Minersville Man Wanted on Warrant Taken Into Custody During Traffic Stop
Pottsville Police Investigating the Death of a Schuylkill County Prison Inmate

Mahanoy City Community Day Moved to the Fall
Mahanoy City Borough Council Meeting Notes - 06/09/2020
Under New Business
Skook News Obituaries for 06/10/2020
Cody was born in Mahanoy City, PA on May 27, 1992, a son of Barry Decker and the late Joy (Frie).
He graduated from Marian High School, class of 2010
He then served in the U.S. Army in the 198th Infantry Brigade as a SPC in the War on Terror Afghanistan. During his deployment he served as a Team Leader and led a group of soldiers through combat. He was honorably/medically discharged in 2015 and received the 5 NATO medal for service and was recognized for serving under the 319th Military Intelligence Battalion.
Cody was a dedicated and loyal son, grandson, nephew, brother and friend. He was a talented artist who touched many lives. Cody enjoyed spending time with his family and service dog Keano whom he loved. He was a selfless and gentle soul and will be greatly missed.
In addition to his father Barry and his companion Melissa, Cody is also survived by his Grandfather Barry with whom he lived, a sister, Courtney, wife of Joe Tamagini, of Tamaqua, a brother, Chris, husband of Nicole, of Lebanon; his aunts Linda and her companion Jeff Bamford, and Diane Decker and her companion Gary Matthews, and step brother and sister Colin and Carly Hasara.
He is preceded in death by his grandmother Nancy.
Friends may call Friday 4 to 8 PM June 12th, at the funeral home. Anyone attending must wear a face covering due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are limited to 25 people inside the parlor at any one time.
Donations can be given to Wounded Warrior Project or SPCA
Interment will be private at the Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery Annville, PA.
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. Mahanoy City is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book, send sympathy cards, or view Video Tribute.
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Julia C. Supernavich, 97, of Barnesville, PA, passed away Tuesday, June 9th, 2020.Julia was born in New Boston, PA on June 15, 1922, a daughter of the late Caroline (Musial) and Julius Onefsky.
She graduated from Mahanoy Twp High School class of 1941.
After high school she worked for the war effort in WW2 in Washington DC.
She is a member of St. Richards Church Barnesville.
She belonged to several Senior Citizens organizations around the area and also belonged to Ryan Twp. Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.
Julia is survived by a daughter, Patricia Blew, of Barnesville and also survived by Grandchildren Jason and Eric, Great Grandchildren Noah, Haley, and Jake and Step Great Grandchildren Rachel, Beckie, and Abigail. A Niece Deloris and her husband Edwin.
She is preceded in death by son Vincent, Brothers Michael, Adam, Edward, Joseph, Francis and sisters Mary Hieland, and Annie Musial.
Interment private at convenience of the Family at St. Canicus Cemetery Mahanoy City, PA.
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. Mahanoy City is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book and send sympathy cards.
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Born in Jalappa, Pottsville, she was a daughter of the late Michael and Mary Shargo Chekan.
She was educated in Pottsville Area schools.
During her lifetime, she was employed by Phillips and Jones and WearEver Pen and Pencil.
She was a member of St. Michael Orthodox Church, Saint Clair, and a member of St. Barbara's Altar Society.
In addition to her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Robert C. Umbenhen, who passed away in 1989. She was also preceded by her siblings, Mariya, Elizabeth, Veronica, Mary, Elizabeth, Michael Jr., George and Andrew, along with her beloved pet, Fifi.
Margaret is survived by her three children, Deborah Hughes, of Ashburn, Va., Patti Kochol, wife of Kenneth, of Pottsville, and Robert Umbenhen, husband to Patrice, of Minersville. She is also survived by two grandchildren, Nicole Kochol, wife of Ryan Weaber, of Elizabethtown, and Tyler Umbenhen, companion to Carlee, of Minersville; along with a sister, Anna Premich, Laguna Beach, Calif.; a brother, Paul Chekan, husband to Dorothy, of Port Carbon; nieces and nephews.
A viewing in accordance with COVID-19 guidelines will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Friday at Grabowski Funeral Home, Schuylkill Haven. Private funeral services will follow with entombment to take place on the grounds of Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Margaret's memory to St. Michael Orthodox Church, 106 N. Morris St., Saint Clair, PA 17970. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.grabowskifuneralhome.com.
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Paul Joseph Kasinecz Sr, 61 of Minersville, passed away peacefully at home Saturday June 6, 2020 surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born July 6, 1958 in Pottsville, he was the son of the late Peter and Mary (O’Brien) Kasinecz. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and former member of St. Vincent de Paul Church in Minersville. Paul was a retiree of the Laborers Union Local 471. Paul was an avid outdoorsman who frequently enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping with his son. He was lifetime member of the Sunny Rod & Gun Club and the National Rifle Association. Paul enjoyed spending time with his loyal canine companions, kayaking trips to Locust Lake and Tuscarora State Parks, and hiking the array of wooded trails throughout the state. He enjoyed bus trips to professional baseball games and was a devoted fan of the Philadelphia Phillies. Paul enjoyed watching Penn State Nittany Lions football and was a proud supporter of the Battlin’ Miners athletic programs.Paul is survived by his son Paul Joseph Kasinecz Jr. of Minersville. In addition to his son, Paul is survived by his companion of 28 years Gretchen R. Ulmer. Gretchen’s sons include Jesse Sabitsky husband of Ashley Sabitsky of Duncannon, and Jared Sabitsky husband of Chrissy Sabitsky and their daughter Harlow Jade Sabitsky all of Cressona. Paul’s two surviving brothers include his older brother Robert J. Kasinecz, partner of John Shipley, both of Allentown, and Paul’s twin brother Peter J. Kasinecz, husband of Cathy Kasinecz, both of Primrose. Loving nieces include Amanda M. Kasinecz of Brookhaven, and Jennifer L. (Kasinecz) Pelletier wife of Dustin, both of Lancaster. His loving nephew is Peter J. Kasinecz Jr. of Primrose. Paul was preceded in death by his parents Peter and Mary and loving niece Katie J. Kasinecz of Emmaus.
All Friends and family are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial in accordance with COVID-19 guidelines at 10:00 am Wednesday at St. Michael the Archangel Church, Minersville with Reverend Jason Stokes celebrant.
Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville entrusted with the arrangements.
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Loretta B. Sponhouse, 98, of Port Carbon, passed away surrounded by her family, Monday, June 8th, at her residence. Born in St. Clair, January 12, 1922, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Margaret Evans McNulty. She attended the former St. Mary’s Catholic School, St. Clair, and later working as a custodial maid for area motels, retiring from the former Fairlane Motor Inn of Pottsville. Loretta was a member of the former St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, Port Carbon, now St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, St. Clair. Her passion in life was baking, she loved to bake bread and sticky buns, sharing them with family and friends.Preceding her in death was her husband, Walter Sponhouse, passing February 12, 2000, a daughter Sally Ann Yeager, grandson, Lee Schwalm, a great grandson, Colton Yeager, son, Michael Guzick, Sisters, Margaret Hesse, Theresa Purcell, Mary McNulty, Brothers, William, John, Michael, Joseph, and James McNulty.
Survivors:
Daughter: Irene wife of Stirling Santee, Pottsville
Daughter: Loretta wife of Michael Skoufalos, Port Carbon
Daughter: Kathleen wife of Thomas Adamchick, St. Clair
Son: Walter Sponhouse Jr., and his companion Kathleen Staller, Schuylkill Haven
Step Son: Vince Kane and his wife Jean, Palo Alto
13 Grandchildren, 15 Great Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews
Friends and relatives are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, at 11 AM, Friday June 12th, in the Saint Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, 250 E. Hancock St., St. Clair. Celebrant will be Rev. Monsignor William F. Glosser. A time of visitation will begin at 10 AM in the church. Interment will be held at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at a later date.
Visit www.Fritzfuneralhome.com. The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of arrangements.
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Fire Crews Continue to Pump as Water Levels Rise in Gilberton

DCNR has also brought in larger pumps to help move water.
Coroner Called to Industrial Accident near McAdoo
Shenandoah Man Sentenced for Operating Heroin Trafficking Conspiracy

According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Strange previously pleaded guilty to participating in the conspiracy during 2014 and 2015. Strange admitted that he and others in the conspiracy distributed between one and three kilograms of heroin, which is approximately equivalent to between 40,000 and 120,000 retail bags of heroin. The heroin was obtained from suppliers in Paterson, New Jersey, and Hazleton, Pennsylvania.
Strange, who used the street name “Chicago,” was the leader of the drug conspiracy and possessed firearms in connection with the criminal activity.
Judge Mariani also ordered Strange to serve five years on supervised release following his prison sentence, and to forfeit firearms and his share of cash seized during the investigation.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Shenandoah Police. Assistant United States Attorney Francis P. Sempa prosecuted the case.
This case was 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.
Former Corrections Officer Charged for Smuggling Tobbaco into FCI-Schuylkill
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Paul Taylor, age 53, of Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, a former BOP Correctional Officer at the Federal Correctional Institute Schuylkill (FCI Schuylkill), Schuylkill, Pennsylvania, was charged on June 9, 2020, in a criminal information with bribery and corruption.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the criminal information alleges that between 2011 and 2016, Taylor smuggled tobacco into FCI Schuylkill while employed as a Correctional Officer, and provided the contraband to prisoners in exchange for money.
The investigation was conducted by special agents of the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 15 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational, and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
Skook News Obituaries for 06/11/2020
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Florence C. Bubel, 89 of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, June 11, 2020 while in the loving care of her family.
Born Saturday, May 2, 1931 in Brockton, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late William Williams and the late Mary Pawk Williams. She was the wife of the late John Bubel who passed away February 9, 2011.
Surviving are son, Charles Yuskauskas and his wife, Deborah of Nesquehoning, PA, daughters, Diane Macchiano and her husband, Dr. Anthony of Nesquehoning, PA and Dr. Anita Yuskauskas and her husband, Christopher Fink of Lincoln University, PA; 5 grandchildren Jarrod, Rebecca, Ben, Anthony, Jr. and Andrius; 4 great grand children Tony, Gabriella, Mia and Gianna.
Florence retired from Meridian Bank and was a former co-owner of the White Swan in Tamaqua for 22 years. She enjoyed cooking and entertaining friends and family at her home. Florence was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church and also the Ladies Auxiliary. She will be remembered for her appearance and sense of style.
She was predeceased by brothers, Eugene and Bill Williams; sisters, Mary Zukovich, Laverne Huth and Beverly Trubilla; and former husband, Anthony C. Yuskauskas.
She has been entrusted to E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. 655 East Broad Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252, 570-668-2550. Dates and times for her service and a celebration of her life will be announced at a future time, when those who knew and cared about her can participate. At that time her interment will be at Sky-View Memorial Park, Tamaqua.
Memorial donations in Florence's name can be made to:
St. Luke's Hospice
Development Office
801 Ostrum Street
Bethlehem, PA 18015
Or
Parkinson's Disease Foundation
1359 Broadway Suite 1509
New York, NY 10018
To share a fond memory of Florence or offer condolences to the family, please visit www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com
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Norwood C. Ohl , 85 years of age, formerly of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2020, at St. Luke's Hospice in Bethlehem.Born Thursday, October 4,1934 in Rahn Township, Schuylkill County, PA, the son of the late Wilbur Ohl and Barbara (Robertshaw) Ohl. Norwood was also predeceased by his beloved wife Dolores J. (Ruch) Ohl on February 12, 2017.
Surviving are son, Frank Ohl; daughter, Norma J. Dodson wife of Kenneth; brothers, Harry Ohl and his wife Marlene, Wilbur Ohl and his wife Patricia; sisters, Arlene Quinn wife of Jack, Alberta Bonetsky , Priscilla Dennis, Cumeatta Conrad wife of Robert; grand child, Joshua Ohl; great grand child, Jonathan Ohl. Many nieces and nephews also survive Norwood.
Norwood served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War. He retired from Parish Steel having worked as a machine operator. A member of St. John U.C.C. of Tamaqua, Norwood enjoyed antique cars, collecting coins and guns, and hunting. Norwood owned and spoiled many dogs during his lifetime.
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.
Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday June 16, 2020 from 9:30 am until 11:00 am.
Private funeral services and interment with military honors at Sky-View Memorial Park, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.
Memorials to:
St. John U.C.C.
150 Pine Street
Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com
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Born January 11, 1957 in Pottsville, he was the son of the late Ernest Behney and Betty (Miller) Behney. Scott was a graduate of Pottsville Area High School, Class of 1975. He spent his career in the local textile industry.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters Kimberly Behney and Cynthia Behney Crane.
He is survived by a daughter, Holly M. Melusky and husband, Matthew, son, Christopher S. Behney, partner, Kristina Porcari and beloved dogs, Penny, Lily, Harley and Jigs. . Also surviving is a sister,, Karen Kellett, and his former spouse, Nina Subrine Behney, nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Services will be private.
Scott’s family wishes to encourage you to consider the Gift of Life and to become an organ donor. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Scott's memory to Hillside S.P.C.A. (https://www.hillsidespca.com) or Ruth Steinert Memorial S.P.C.A (https://www.rsmspca.org).
Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home, Minersville, is in charge of arrangements.
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Born in Mahanoy City, March 4, 1919, a daughter of the late Peter and Magdalene Swadish
Dorothy was a retired nurses aide from the former Danville State Hospital.
She was a longtime member of Our Lady of Mercy Church, Catawissa.
Her family meant the world to her. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Albert Alex, 1983; a daughter, Dorothy Witmer, 1994 and granddaughter, Susan Witmer, 2006.
Surviving are her grandson, Harry Witmer and his wife Mary, Tower City; 6 great grandchildren, Oliva Moore, Farrah Howton, Shannon Mease, Brandi, Erin and Adam Witmer; 10 great great grandchildren, Andreas, Camille, Alex, Brian, Elektra, Adonis, Izzy, Caeylon, Kairi and Sabastian.
A private Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated from Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Chapel, Tower City with Rev. Paul Rothermel as celebrant. Burial will be in the All Saints Cemetery, Elysburg. Donations in Dorothy's name can be made to Sts. Peter and Paul Chapel, c/o Parish office, 113 Cherry Street, Tremont, PA 17981. The Dimon Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., has been entrusted with arrangements. To send condolences to the family visit www.dimonfuneralhome.com
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