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Victim Identified in Fatal Industrial Accident near McAdoo

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One victim died while another flown to an area hospital after an industrial accident near McAdoo on Thursday.

Just before 1:00pm on Thursday, emergency personnel were dispatched to 90 Plant Road, in Kline Township near McAdoo for an industrial accident.

As fire personnel arrived on scene a Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner was requested for one victim and a helicopter was requested for another.

According to authorities, two men were working on tearing down a conveyor belt that was part of the former CoGen plant that was on the property.

The two were working approximately 80 feet in the air when they, along with the assembly to the ground.

Dennis Fleming, 32, of Erie was pronounced dead at the scene by Deputy Coroner David Truskowky.

The other victim, Edward Potter, also of Erie was flown to an area hospital where he was listed as having serious injuries.

One Flown After Crash in West Mahanoy Township Overnight

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One person was flown after a crash in West Mahanoy Township overnight.

Around midnight, emergency personnel were dispatched to 459 Raven Run Road in West Mahanoy Township for a Motor Vehicle accident with entrapment.

According to West Mahanoy Township Police at the scene, the driver was travelling on Raven Run Road when he swerved to miss a deer and struck a tree.

The driver was suffered a minor in the crash and was evaluated at the scene.  The passenger was transported to the Shenandoah Helipad where he was flown with unknown injuries.

Flooded Homes Evacuated Overnight in Gilberton

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Late Thursday and Early Friday, emergency personnel were in Gilberton evacuating people from homes that were flooded.

Throughout the day on Thursday, emergency personnel were in the borough of Gilberton trying to keep up with the rising waters after the morning rain that dumped approximately 3 inches of rain.

Along with the emergency personnel, borough and state officials were at the scene working with the construction company that was operating at the Route 924 bridge.

Borough officials said on Thursday that the flooding was due to the work and changes in the landscape that were being done by the bridge project.  Since May, this will have been the second time there were water issues due to blocked drainage that the project caused.

Representative Neal Goodman was also at the scene to ensure the proper work was taken place in a quick manner to rectify the issue.

Around 5:30pm, Thursday, larger, more powerful pumps were brought in from New Jersey after Mayor Mary Lou Hannon called the company to the bring them earlier in the day.

"We used these same pumps in 2018 when we flooded, so I called them, and they were on the road immediately" said Hannon.

Fire companies from all over Schuylkill County as well as Northumberland worked throughout the day and into the night to keep up but the water continued to rise.

Just before 11:00pm, Thursday, emergency officials made the decision to evacuate the flooded homes on the south side of Main Street in the borough.

The West End Fire Company from Mahanoy City was dispatched to bring their for evacuations.

Members of the dive team, went door to door to the homes and evacuated any residents that had not already evacuated.

Within an hour, the team evacuated approximately 10 people.  Those 10 were brought to dry land and were then transported to the American Hose in Mahanoy Plane where those victims spent the night and were assisted by the American Red Cross.

Around 2:00am, emergency personnel seized operations and would return at daybreak to continue to work.





















 
















 





















Schuylkill County Moving to "Green Phase" Next Friday

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Governor Tom Wolf announced today that Schuylkill County, along with 7 other counties will move to the green phase next Friday.
According to Wof, the counties of Dauphin, Franklin, Huntingdon, Luzerne, Monroe, Perry, Pike, and Schuylkill will move to Green effective at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2020.

The green phase eases most restrictions by lifting the stay-at-home and business closure orders to allow the economy to strategically reopen while continuing to prioritize public health. Some restrictions, such as mask-wearing, do remain in place.

While this phase facilitates a return to a “new normal,” it is equally important to continue to monitor public health indicators and adjust orders and restrictions as necessary to ensure the spread of disease remains at a minimum.

Work and Congregate Settings Restrictions
Continued Telework Strongly Encouraged
Businesses with In-Person Operations Must Follow Updated Business and Building Safety Requirements
All Businesses Operating at 50% Occupancy in the Yellow Phase May Increase to 75% Occupancy
Child Care May Open Complying with Guidance
Congregate Care Restrictions in Place
Prison and Hospital Restrictions Determined by Individual Facilities
Schools Subject to CDC and Commonwealth Guidance

Social Restrictions

Large Gatherings of More Than 250 Prohibited
Masks are Required When Entering a Business
Restaurants and Bars Open at 50% Occupancy
Personal Care Services (including hair salons and barbershops) Open at 50% Occupancy and by Appointment Only
Indoor Recreation, Health and Wellness Facilities, and Personal Care Services (such as gyms and spas) Open at 50% Occupancy with Appointments Strongly Encouraged
All Entertainment (such as casinos, theaters, and shopping malls) Open at 50% Occupancy
Construction Activity May Return to Full Capacity with Continued Implementation of Protocols

Dive Teams Return to Gilberton to Rescue Pets and Another Items from Flooded Homes

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Just before noon on Friday, two Schuylkill County dive teams were called to Gilberton to assist with any additional evacuations as well as to rescue pets and retrieve items that were left behind.


The dive teams from the West End Fire Company, Mahanoy City, and the Schuylkill Haven Dive Team returned to the borough just after noon. 

The teams had a list of homes to visit and transported some homeowners back to their homes to go inside and get the items they needed.

As of 1:00pm, the water continued to rise leaving many homes with at least 3 feet of water on the first floor.

























State Police Investigating Stolen Cadillac Escalade in Kline Township Overnight

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The Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville is investigating a report of a stolen vehicle in Kline Township overnight.

According to troopers, sometime between June 11th, 2020 at 11:30pm, and June 12th, 2020 at 4:30am, someone stolen a white 2005 Cadillac Escalade from James Street in Kline Township.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at (570) 874-5300.

Plane Makes Emergency Landing Along Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County

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A plane made an emergency landing along Interstate 81 in Foster Township Friday evening.

Very few details are available at this time, but the incident occurred around 6:15pm, when the plane made an emergency landing in the median near mile marker 111, between the Hegins and Minersville exits.

State Police responded to the scene.

We will have more information when it's available.

Submitted photo

UPDATE: Massachusetts Man Lands Plane on Interstate 81 After Running Out of Fuel

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A plane made an emergency landing along Interstate 81 in Foster Township Friday evening.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, the incident occurred around 6:00pm on Friday when Edward Bulgar, of Newburyport, MA, was attempting to land at Joe Zerby Airport in Foster Township and ran out of gas forcing him to land on the nearby Interstate near mile marker 111 between the Hegins and Minersville exits.

Bulgar was not injured and the plane was not damaged in the incident.

Pine Grove Towing was brought to the scene to provide fuel for the plane and Troopers escorted the plane  for approximately 4 miles back to Joe Zerby Airport.

The incident was turned over to the FAA.

Submitted photo

Video of the Plane enroute to Joe Zerby Airport on Route 901

Skook News Obituaries for 06/12/2020

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Skook News Obituaries for 06/12/2020

Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

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Jeneen Blackwell
, 42, of Mahanoy City, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 10th, 2020 at her residence.

Jeneen was born in Nesquehoning, on March 11, 1978.

She attended and was a graduate of the Panther Valley High School. Jeneen enjoyed painting and doing ceramics.

She is survived by her husband of over 20 years, James Blackwell, II of Mahanoy City,
and by her children, Jimmy, of Shenandoah; Bethann, of Frackville; Courtney, of Mahanoy City and Connor, of Mahanoy City.

She is also survived by 1 grandson, Marc and by a brother and several sisters, along with nieces and nephews

Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, private family funeral services will be held at the funeral home for Jeneen's family.

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These Obituaries are brought to you by

Man in Custody After Leading Police in Pursuit from Girardville to Ashland

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A man in custody after leading Girardville Police in a pursuit from Ashland to Girardville on Friday evening.

According to Girardville Police, on Friday, June 12th, 2020 at around 8:10pm, Girardville Police were on duty near Silver/Main streets in the borough. 

The officer observed a black motorcycle traveling West at a high rate of speed and activated his emergency lights and attempted to stop the motorcycle. 

While attempting to stop the vehicle the driver looked back at the officer several times and then started traveling at an extremely high rate of speed. 

The man traveled out of Girardville on the wrong side of Main street against the flow of traffic to enter onto Route 54 in the direction of Ashland. 

It was at this time that the man on the motorcycle was estimated at traveling in excess of 90 mph.

The man pulled away from police and the officer and traveled up Centre Street in Ashland and turned down a side street then made a left onto the 1700 block of Walnut Street where the suspect then dropped his bike and ran. 

The Girardville Police officer pursued the suspect on foot but lost sight of him between some houses. 

The suspect then ran into Ashland Officer who attempted to pursue him as well. 

The Ashland Officer deployed his Taser in an attempt to stop the suspect but he continued to run and Ashland Officer lost sight of the suspect. 

The suspect then broke through the door of a home at 1710 Spruce Street in Ashland.. 

The suspect then took a bicycle from 1606 Spruce Street and rode the bicycle to 23 S. 7th Street where he dropped the bike across the street from that address and ran into the house. 

The suspect was witnessed entering this home by and off duty Sheriff and an off duty state trooper who called the communications center to inform police where the suspect was. 

The officer then made forcible entry into the house and found the suspect, identified as Christopher Buck pretending to be asleep on the living room couch. 

Buck was then found with at least two taser clips on him as a result of being tased earlier in the pursuit.

Buck was charged with recklessly endangering another person, reckless endangerment, Fleeing/Eluding, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, Driving suspended DUI Related, Criminal Mischief, reckless driving, careless driving, driving unsafe speed, possession of drugs, receiving stolen property, theft by unlawful taking, resisting arrest, Disorderly Conduct, Driving Unsafe Speed. 

Assisting Girardville Police were officers from  Ashland, Frackville, Shenandoah, and Butler Township.

Buck was arraigned Magistrate District Judge Christina Hale and locked up in Schuylkill County Prison on $25,000 straight cash bail.

NOTE:  According to Girardville Police, two other people were found hiding and were secured on the roof of the home at the time of the incident.  They were not involved in the pursuit but one person was wanted to police.

Gilberton Flood Waters Begin to Recede

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Overnight Friday into Saturday, the rising flood waters in the borough of Gilberton finally stopped rising and began to recede slightly.

The flooding problem in Gilberton began Thursday after an early morning thunderstorm dumped approximately 3 inches of rain on the borough.  Since then, the waters have continued to rise to approximately 10 feet filling basements and destroying the first floors of many homes in the borough.

Approximately 10 homes were evacuated prior to Saturday and 10 more were evacuated today.  PPL also shut off power to most of the homes in the flooded area.

The change in flood waters early Saturday was thanks to two large pumps from New Jersey that went online in the borough.

Those two pumps have pushed tens of thousands of water through 12 inch pipes from the borough's flooded streets over the nearby railroad tracks and into the Mahanoy Creek.

As of 10:30am Saturday, the water had receded approximately 4 to 5 inches and another 4 to 5 by 5:00pm.

While the water is going to down, more problems arose Saturday as the ground beneath the nearby railroad tracks began to give way due to the pumping of the water.

According to Borough Officials, the Railroad Company that owns the tracks reached out to the borough and told them to stop pumping. An agreement was made later in the day after Mayor Hannon told the company they would not stop pumping.

Mayor Hannon is still fighting for the borough and putting the blame on the construction company working on the nearby bridge project for starting the flooding problem.

"This company knew about the problem in May, and did nothing about it.  Now look where we are." said Hannon.

Hannon pointed out that the borough had an issue in May after a rain storm.  It was determined that the drainage pipes put in during the project were too small and became clogged.

Hannon said "They basically built a dam on the Mahanoy Creek and once the pipes became clogged, the water had no where to go"

Hannon says that while the construction company has made some concessions, they haven't done enough.

Skook News will continue to update you as the situations change in the borough.

Story and Photos by J. Reed
















TRAFFIC ALERT: Route 309 Closed near McAdoo Due to Crash

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As of 8:45pm, Saturday, Route 309 is closed near McAdoo.

Around 8:15pm, emergency personnel were dispatched to 1200 Mile Hill Road for a motor vehicle accident with heavy entrapment and high mechanism.

The accident is reported to involve a vehicle over an embankment.

Emergency personnel are the scene with a Medivac helicopter landing nearby for at least one patient.

The road is expected to be closed for a period of time while the scene is cleared.

Skook News Obituaries for 06/13/2020

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Skook News Obituaries for 06/13/2020

Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

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Catherine Oliver Baker
, 69, of Pottsville passed away Thursday, June 11, 2020 at her residence.

Born on February 13, 1951 in Shenandoah, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Emily Oliver.

She was raised in the Catholic Faith.

Catherine loved animals and enjoyed crossword puzzles.

She is survived by her stepson Donald Baker, Jr., former husband, Donald Baker Sr., and her friend of 40 years, Elizabeth wife of Joseph Zinavage.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, 515 W. Market St., Pottsville.

Please visit SchlitzerAllenPugh.com to leave a condolence for the Baker family.

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Francis "Vic" J. Vukmanovich
, 87, of Pine Grove, formerly of Pottsville, passed away Friday, June 12, 2020 at Tremont Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Born February 10, 1933 in Altoona, PA, he was the son of the late Anton and Helena (Weidman) Vukmanovich.

He was a member of the Church of St. Patrick, Pottsville.

Francis proudly served his country during the Korean War, serving in the United States Army. Prior to retiring in 2000 he was employed by United Metal Receptacle Corporation as a customer service manager.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by five brothers.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Patricia M. (Beiswenger) Vukmanovich; sons, Barry Booterbaugh husband of Rose, Pottsville, Mark Vukmanovich husband of Marie, Drums; daughter, Deborah Booterbaugh, Pottsville; grandchildren, Gina wife of Anthony Corotto, Stacy Booterbaugh, Aaron Booterbaugh, Ashly Vukmanovich, great grandchildren Russell Fort, Gabriella Fort, and Owen Corotto, Father Paul Robine, and Sister Patricia Weidman.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11AM on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at the Church of St. Patrick. Interment with military honors will follow at Our Lady of Calvary Cemetery, Hillside, Pottsville. Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family request memorial contributions be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, Memorial Giving 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

Please visit SchlitzerAllenPugh.com to leave a condolence for the Vukmanovich family.

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Elizabeth A. Sabadish, 92, of Branchdale, Reilly Township, passed away on Friday at Tremont Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

Born on August 13 1927 in Pottsville, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Anna Bukosky Kralick. She was a 1945 graduate of Reilly Township High School and worked for the former Honeybee Blouse Company, Branchdale.

She was a member of the former St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, Branchdale, where she was active in maintaining the church and fundraising for the church and former parochial school. She was a current member of St. Matthew the Evangelist Church, Minersville.

She was also a member of ILGWU and a longtime member of the Ladies’ Booster Club of Branchdale, planning community events and traveling.

She was predeceased by her husband, John “Lefty” Sabadish, in 1993; five siblings, John Kralick, in infancy, Andrew Kralick, in Korea as a POW, Frank Kralick, Anna Kushmanik and Mary Fedeles.

She is survived by four daughters, Mary Ann Harrison (spouse, Thomas), Jonestown, Lebanon County, Elizabeth Morrison (spouse, George), Linglestown, Jean Kreiser (spouse, Edward), Pine Grove, and Lynn Sabadish, Branchdale; four grandchildren, Geoffrey Morrison (spouse, Renee), Jonathan Morrison, Derek Kreiser (spouse, Laura), and Kati Kreiser; a great-grandson, Reiley Kreiser; nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are incomplete. 

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Marion G. Davenport, age 82, of St. Clair, PA passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 10th, 2020 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Allentown. 

Born in Pottsville, PA on September 30, 1937 , she was the daughter of the late Warren and Kathryn (Williams) Thorn. 

Marion was a graduate of Saint Clair High School, Class of 1955. She worked as an operator at Bell Telephone in Pottsville and then as a sales clerk for Boscov's Department Store in Pottsville until retiring. 

Marion was a member of the Saint Clair Wade Methodist Church. She loved going on bus trips, reading, walking, going to exercise classes, and attending her grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's activities. 

Marion was the last member of her immediate family, being preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 49 years, Raymond E. Davenport in September of 2006, a grandson Alex G. Henry in APRIL of 2018, and two brothers: David and William Thorn. 

Marion is survived by daughter Kathleen Moran and her husband Patrick, Pottsville; son Kevin Davenport and his wife Sandra, Saint Clair; daughter Kimberly Henry and her husband George, Pottsville; two grandchildren: Eric Culbert and his wife Amanda and Patrick "PJ" Moran; three great-grandchildren: Ethan, Aiden, and Emma Culbert; and nieces and nephews. 

A Religious Service will be held at the Robert A. Evans Jr. Funeral Home in Port Carbon at 11AM on Monday, June 15th, with Pastor Jack Murray officiating. 

Relatives and Friends are invited to a viewing Monday morning from 9-11am at the Funeral Home.
Interment will be held in the Schuylkill Memorial Park Cemetery Schuylkill Haven, PA. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pottsville Free Public Library 215 West Market Street Pottsville, PA 17901 or to the church of your choice. 

Please send condolences to www.robertaevansjrfh.com.

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Jean E. Boerner
, beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, of Sunny Road New Ringgold, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12, 2020, as a guest of the Hometown Nursing & Rehabilitation Ctr. in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, at 81 years of age.

Born Friday, February 24, 1939 in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Mary (Stahler) Ziegler. Jean was also predeceased by; husband, Ernest A. Boerner on February 10, 2006; sisters, Mrs. Marie E. Zaprazny, Nancy J. Grohman; brothers, Harry and Edward Ziegler.

Surviving are; daughters, Mary Ann Fryer wife of Harold of New Ringgold, Jeanna Gradwell wife of Fred of Shenandoah; sons, Ernest Boerner III and his wife Pam of New Ringgold, Edward Boerner and his wife Kelly of Tamaqua; 11 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews also survive her.

Jean had worked for the former J.E. Morgan Knitting, and for many years at the Mahoning Valley Public Golf course. Visiting yards sale always was something Jean enjoyed; however, time with family and friends was her number one priority.

Private funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Robert S, Nester Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 2066 West Penn Pike New Ringgold, Pennsylvania. (570) 386-5884.

Interment will be in Sky-View Memorial Park Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.

Memorials in her name to:
Aplastic Anemia & MDS International Foundation
100 Park Ave.
Rockville, MD 20850
or
American Cancer Society
712 S. Keyser Ave.
Taylor, Pennsylvania 18517
&
National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 678572
Dallas, Texas 75267 - 8572

Never one to miss a good time, the family will celebrate Jeans life publicly upon the lifting of covid-19 restrictions.

online expressions of sympathy may be made by visiting www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com

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Theresa Elizabeth Williams
, 91, of Shenandoah, passed away June 11, 2020, after a short illness.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John F. Williams.

Born November 19, 1928, in Shenandoah, she was a daughter of the late John Velinsky Weglinski and the former Rose Gorney Velinsky.

Theresa was a member of the former St. Stanislaus Church, where she was active in the many organizations that supported the church and parish school; she currently was a member of Divine Mercy Parish. She was a longtime employee of J.C. Penney Co. Theresa was also a member of the Greater Shenandoah Area Senior Citizens. She was an avid supporter of Penn State and loved her Nittany Lions. Most of all, Theresa will always be remembered for her unfailing devotion to her family. She was immensely proud of them and leaves them with many beautiful memories.

Preceding her in death, in addition to her parents and her husband, John F. “Jack” Williams, were three brothers, Daniel, Alfred and John Weglinski; two sisters, Helen Subach and Anna Sendlock; three infant siblings.

She is loved and survived by her three daughters, Janice, wife of Bradley Bicksler, of Palmyra, Teresa, wife of Charles Marcavage, of Baltimore, Md., and Margaret, wife of Timothy Barry, of Elizabethtown. Theresa is also survived by four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Divine Mercy Church, Shenandoah, with interment to follow in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Schuylkill Historical Fire Society, 105 S. Jardin St., Shenandoah, PA 17976, or the Activity Fund at Kadima at Campbelltown, 2880 Horseshoe Pike, Campbelltown, PA 17010.

Walukiewicz-Oravitz Fell Funeral Home, 132 S. Jardin St., Shenandoah, is in charge of the arrangements. 

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Ray Kevin Rockwell, 63 of Oakland Ave. Ashland, PA passed away Thursday, June 11, 2020 at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Pottsville, PA. 

Born in Ashland January 23,1957 the son of the late Marlin and Matilda (Tillie) Erdman
Rockwell. He was a member of Zion's Reformed UCC, Ashland, Worked for
many years for the Harmony Coal Company, Mt. Carmel as a miner until retirement. 

Surviving are four sisters, two brothers: Marlin Rockwell Jr, Trevorton, PA; David Rockwell, Girardville, PA; Janet Powell, Yulee, FL.; Carol Wilson, Ashland, PA and Louise Horan, Ashland, PA. His estranged wife : Esther Rockwell, Pottsville, PA. Daughter Kristen Evans, Girardville, PA,
stepdaughter Brenda Shadle and stepson Derek Davidson. Grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, 2:00 P.M. from Zion's Reformed UCC, Ashland, PA. Rev. E. Dean Luther officiating. Interment in Brock Cemetery, Ashland, PA . 

Visitation Wednesday 1:00-2:00 PM from Zion's Reformed UCC, Ashland, PA.
Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc. is in charge. Charles Heizenroth III,Supervisor.

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Ronald M. Duffy, 86, of Minersville died Friday at his home.

Born in Minersville, he was a son of the late Charles P. and Doris Moore Duffy.

Ron was a graduate of Minersville Area High School and the Pennsylvania State University. He was retired from PENNDOT where he was a Geotechnical Engineer. He was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Church, Minersville. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War.

He was a lifelong resident of Minersville and proud of the contributions he made to the town. He was a member of the Minersville Borough Council and was a past Vice President of Council. He was a past president of the Minersville Water Authority, the Minersville Lions Club and the PENNDOT 25 Year Club. He was a life member off the Goodwill Fire Co., Minersville. He also was a member of the Cressona Legion, Hamburg, Second Mountain, Mechanicsville and Strausstown Gun Clubs.

Ron strongly believed in community. He generously supported his circle of family, friends and Minersville with his time and talents.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife Mary G. Collihan Duffy; a son Pat; 2 grandchildren, Kaitlin Griffith and Adam Duffy;

3 brothers, Robert, Donald and Edmund Duffy and 2 sisters, Nancy Dabrowny and Sally Schreffler.

He is survived by 3 children, Terry Mazich and her husband Rick, Fleetwood, Judy Griffith and her husband Don, Minersville and Tom Duffy and his companion Lisa Mullin, New Philadelphia; grandchildren Mark Mazich, Molly Mazich, Maria Hartz, Tyler Duffy, Lindsay Duffy, Matthew Griffith, Heidi Griffith, Andrew Duffy and Emily Wolfgang; great grandchildren, Ava Duffy, Adelyn Duffy and McKenzie Mazich; a sister Pat Moerder and a brother David Duffy and his wife Dolly; many nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 9:30 AM in St. Michael the Archangel Church, 539 Sunbury St, Minersville. Rev Jason Stokes will officiate. Relatives and friends may call at the Donald J. Butler Funeral Home, 328 Sunbury St, Minersville, on Wednesday morning from 7AM to 9AM. Please observe CDC and PA DOH COVID-19 guidelines. Interment with military honors will be in Mt. Peace Cemetery, Minersville.

The family would prefer remembrances in the form of contributions in memory of Ron to the Minersville Public Library, 220 South 4th St.,, Minersville. Contributions will also be accepted at the funeral home. To offer condolences to the family or to light a candle in Ron’s memory, visit us at www.donaldjbutlerfh.com

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Anthony J. “Tony” Cuff, 71, of Panama City, FL and formerly of Shenandoah, passed away unexpectedly on June 9th, 2020.

Born in Shenandoah, he was the son of the late Joseph and Helen Cuff.

He leaves behind a sister, Mickey (Cuff) Flynn with Dan, a cousin, Joey Benedict with Allen, and a nephew, Patrick Flynn.

Tony was a graduate of the former Shenandoah Catholic High School and owner of the former Schuylkill Beverage and Cuffy's Quarts.

Graveside services will be conducted by Pastor Jack Murray on Thursday, June 18th at 11am in St. Stanislaus Parish Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights.

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These Obituaries are brought to you by

Skook News Obituaries for 06/14/2020

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Skook News Obituaries for 06/14/2020

Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

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Dianna Renee Aponick
, age 33, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 11th, 2020 with her mother and stepfather by her side.

She was born April 9, 1987 in Hazelton, the daughter of Tammey Mummey and Robert Aponick, II.

Dianna was a free, loving, and kind soul who always saw the best in others. She never failed to flash a friendly smile or offer words of kindness to anyone she met. She thrived most when taking care of people and her compassion had no limit. Her outer beauty captured your eye and her inner beauty captured your heart.

Her greatest love was that for her daughters, Kylee age 12 and Layla age 9. Her artistic talents can be seen in the “treasures” she would create for them, pulling from the beauty of the world she found around her and passing that along with love.

Dianna was preceded in death by her father, Robert James Aponick II and her grandparents Diane and Jeremy Mummey.

In addition to her daughters, Dianna is survived by her mother and stepfather, Tammey Piekarsky and Jason Hayes; her brothers Joey and his wife Cassie, Brandon, and Noah; grandparents Bob and Bonnie Aponick, and Nana Nancy Hayes; her aunts and their husbands Dena and Dave Guenther, Jodi and Mike Berry, Angie and Bob Barr; her uncles Jeremy Mummey, and Robert Mummey and his wife Holly; plus many great aunts, uncles and cousins.

Dianna will be returned to the earth she loved so dearly, being laid to rest during a graveside service on Saturday, June 20th 2020, 10 AM at the Ringtown Methodist Cemetery.

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of the mind." - Romans XII:II

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Peaceful Protest Held in Shenandoah to Stand with BLM Movement and Demand Change

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After two similar protests in the city of Pottsville in Schuylkill County, a peaceful protest was held Sunday afternoon in the borough of Shenandoah to join others in pushing the message of the "Black Lives Matter" movement as well as equality for all.


The protest involved about 25 to 30 individuals who carried signs and flags in protest of the recent killing of African Americans who died at the hands of police brutality.

The crowd marched from Bicentennial Park near Mrs. T's and followed a route to the Miner's Memorial chanting the names of "George Floyd" and "Brianna Taylor", who were both killed by police.

While the protest was against the recent police brutality, the protest also included the support for law enforcement as one member walked carried the "Thin Blue Line" flag.

After marching and having a moment of silence at the Miner's Memorial, the march continued to the intersection of Main and Center Streets.

Throughout the route, 4 men followed the protesters wearing "Make America Great Again" hats questioning the motives of the march as well as trying to over speak them.

Those driving by agreeing with protest's message honked and waved as they passed.

The protest lasted approximately an hour and a half before moving back to bicentennial park and dispersing.

Organizer Raquel Heckman said "We were so happy to have everyone out marching together in unity and using their voices to be heard. We did have some people against us but we made it all happen while staying peaceful!"

Assisting with security during the protest were Shenandoah Police with help from officers from around the area as well as the Schuylkill County Sheriff's office.

   




















Winning Scratch Off Lottery Ticket Worth $1 Million Sold in Girardville, Schuylkill County

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A winning Pennsylvania Lottery Scratch Off Ticket worth $1 Million was sold in Schuylkill County.

According to the PA Lottery, the winning ticket was a $1 Million Cash Blowout scratch-off and was sold at the Unity Food Mart on West Main Street in Girardville.

The identity of the winner and the date of when the ticket was sold was not released at this time.

Unity Food Mart will receive a $5,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket.

Shenandoah Valley Adds Three More Alumni to the Wall of Fame

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The Shenandoah Valley School District has added three more alumni to their Wall of Fame.
Each year the Shenandoah Valley Wall of Fame Selection Committee honors three outstanding alumni by formally inducting them into the school’s Wall of Fame which is prominently displayed in the high school lobby. 

The three alumni are also featured in the commencement program where each is given the opportunity to congratulate the graduating seniors and provide them with some inspirational advice that they utilized in achieving a personal level of success. 

Selected as members of the Shenandoah Valley Wall of Fame Class of 2020 are:

Nancy Grygorowicz-Davis SVHS Class of 1975 and a graduate of Syracuse University with a BS in Communications. As a TV News Video Editor in Seattle Washington she received an Emmy Award for editing. She is currently the Owner/President of Savvy Event Management, Director of Marketing & Editor-in-Chief of Seattle Master Builder Magazine & recipient of the NAHB Association Excellence Award. 



Robert Gadinski SHS Class of 1966 graduated from Bloomsburg University with a BA in Social Studies, & a MED in Earth Science. He served as a Special Projects Manager for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Agency and the site leader with the Federal EPA. He also started a private consulting service to assist in dealing with environmental issues. 



Darlene Monlish PhD and SVHS Class of 2001. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a BS majoring in Biological Science & a minor in Chemistry. Her post graduate resume included Duquesne University Mylan School of Pharmacy and Post-Doctoral Research Associate at the Department of Pediatrics in the Division of Hematology-Oncology at Washington University St. Louis School of Medicine. She is currently performing medical research as a member of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children’s Hospital. 


2020 is the 23rd Induction Class where 69 alumni were previously enshrined on the “Wall of Fame.”

Due to the restrictions imposed on schools by the state of Pennsylvania in regards to the coronavirus pandemic outbreak the alumni made their remarks by submitting prerecorded speeches that were incorporated in a virtual medium format of the graduation ceremony.

Information and photos submitted by Robert Yudinsky / Shenandoah Valley School District

Skook News Obituaries for 06/15/2020

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Skook News Obituaries for 06/15/2020

Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

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Pauline R. Boettger, 94, of Tamaqua, PA died on Saturday, June 13, 2020 in Coaldale, PA. She was the daughter of the late Simon C. Boettger who died in 1952 and Gussie (nee Eltringham) Boettger who died in 1988. 

A 1943 graduate of Tamaqua High School, Pauline worked for the Borough of Tamaqua for 31 years, retiring as the office manager. Prior to her employment with Tamaqua Borough she worked for Hadesty Hardware. She was a lifetime member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Tamaqua and a member of the Bungalow Park Commission for many years. Pauline is survived by cousins. She was predeceased by her brother, S. Clair Boettger in 2003. 

Graveside services will be announced when arrangements are finalized. Memorials in her name may be made to St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 Mauch Chunk Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252 or to the H. D. Buehler Memorial Pool, Bungalow Park, c/o Tamaqua Borough, 320 East Broad Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252. 

Online condolences may be made at www.zgfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are being handled by the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua.

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William A. Pope, 62, of Pottsville passed away on Saturday evening in his residence with his family by his side.

Born in Pottsville, on June 25, 1957, he was a son of Spencer "Pete" G. Pope, Jr. and the late Carolyn (Rhoads) Pope.

Bill attended Pottsville High School and was a former member of the Kiwanis Club .

Through the years he worked at various auto dealerships, including the family business, Pope Motors, Pottsville.

Bill enjoyed spending time in nature and his garden.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Carolyn, in 2015.

Bill is survived by his wife, Kristina C. (Muench) Pope, to whom he was married 40 years ; a daughter, Robin Pope, of Charleston, SC; a son, Benjamin Pope, husband of Meghan, of Bel Air, MD; grandson, Dylan; father, Spencer "Pete" G. Pope, Jr.; brothers: Spencer G. Pope III, of Auburn; James R. Pope, of Lake Wyonnah; Andrew R. Pope, husband of Denise, of Pottsville; several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services at Charles Baber Cemetery will be private at the convenience of the family.

The family request contributions in Bill's memory be sent to: Red Creek Wildlife Center, Inc, 300 Moon Hill Dr., Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972 or Grace Reformed Fellowship Church, 7401 Bernville Rd., Bernville, PA 19506.

Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.lordbixler.com

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Violet L. Farrell
, beloved wife, cherished mother, adoring grandmother, of Brook Lane Lewistown Valley, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 13, 2020, at St. Lukes Hospice in Bethlehem at the age of 85 years..

Born Thursday, January 24, 1935 in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania the daughter of the late George, and Beatrice (Homer) Dreisbach. She was also predeceased by; brothers, Donald, Arthur and William Dreisbach.

Surviving are; her husband of 66 years, Ronald F. Farrell, Sr.; son, Ronald F. Farrell, Jr. and his wife Roxanne of Tamaqua; daughter, Diane M. Canfield of Vancouver, WA,; brother, Carl Dreisbach of Tamaqua; sister, Beatrice Holmberg of Tamaqua; grand children, Timothy, Natalie, Leslie, Zack; great grandchildren, Salvatore, Hailey, Jack, Elyse, Kyle, Wyatt, Isaiah.

A 1953 graduate of Tamaqua High School, Violet worked in the Textile Industry for many years. She was a good cook; however, mostly enjoyed time spent with family.

Private arrangements entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com

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Robert A. Madenford
, 49, of Harrisburg, formerly of Joliett, passed away suddenly, Saturday, June 13th at his home.

Born in Pottsville, November 5, 1970, a son of the late Gerald Sr. and Shirley Klinger Madenford. He attended Williams Valley School District.

Bob had been previously employed for over 20 years as a heavy equipment operator at Natural Soil Products, Good Spring. Prior to that he was a coal miner.

He enjoyed riding motorcycles, hunting, being in the outdoors and had a love for all animals.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Gerald Madenford Jr., 2010.

Surviving are three sisters, Mardelle Eister, Mount Carmel, Donna Deeter, Tower City and Janice Abdou, with whom Bob resided with in Harrisburg; two brothers, James Madenford, Good Spring and Scott Madenford, Newtown; Nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Bob's life will be announced at a later date. Private burial will be in St. John's Cemetery, Friedensburg. The Dimon Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Tower City has been entrusted with arrangements. To sign the guestbook visit www.dimonfuneralhome.com

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Residents Meet with Gilberton Borough Officials About Moving Forward After Flooding

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The residents affected by the Gilberton flooding this past weekend met with borough officials on Monday evening to discuss what's next and how to move forward.

Since last Thursday, the borough of Gilberton has been flooded with over 10 feet water over a rain storm early Thursday.

The borough has put the blame on the start of the flooding on a nearby bridge project on Route 924.  As of Monday, the waters were slowly receding but the center of the borough was still under 5 feet of water.

The borough held a meeting to meet with the residents affected at the Continental Hose in the borough.

Gilberton Mayor Mary Lou Hannon holding back tears opened the meeting "I'm so sorry all of you have to go through this, my heart breaks for each and every one of you.  I want you all to know that we will be here for you until the end of this."

Mayor Hannon also thanked everyone who has helped out during the evacuations, pumping water, and assisting with bringing food for workers and victims.

The residents expressed their disgust with being able to get back in their homes and were concerned about how they will be getting money for repairs.   Borough officials said they are actively working on getting the funding need but did not have answers.

Other residents were also concerned about getting their power turned back.  PPL pulled the power from most of the homes along Main Street on Thursday and Friday of last week, and now since the water has receded from many homes, PPL will not return until the electrical is inspected.  Affected residents said they are unable to get electrical inspections due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Borough officials also said they would look into the issue.

Borough Vice President Dan Malloy announced that PennDOT is investigating where the water is coming from and that civil engineers will be working in the borough going forward.

Mayor Hannon also announced that the Lehigh Valley Health Network would be provided free tetanus shots for all borough residents.

Hannon also said the borough will be creating a GoFundMe Account to collect for borough residents that will be divided evenly.

EMA Coordinator Frank Zangari told residents they should expect to be questioned before going into homes.  Zangari reminded the residents that their homes are secure and are receiving around the clock coverage.

At the end of the meeting, a few groups that attended the meeting stepped forward to announce help.

Girardville Mayor Michael Zangari said the borough will be collecting items to donate to the residents.  The items will be dropped off and available at the Girardville Borough Hall.  More information will be announced later this week on the project.

Vice President of Dustin's Adventureland, Jeffrey Dunkel, also spoke.  He reminded the residents his non-profit will continue to provide food for the borough.  Dunkel noted as being a past resident of Mount Carbon and living in Port Carbon now, he feels for the residents.

Photos and Story by J. Reed










Schuylkill County Fireworks Schedule for 2020

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Schuylkill County Fireworks Schedule for 2020


Big Diamond Speedway

Friday, July 3rd, 2020


Frackville

Saturday, September 5th, 2020, Rain Date, Saturday, September 12th, 2020


Port Carbon

Saturday, July 4, 2020


Schuylkill Haven

Saturday, July 11th, 2020


St. Clair

Thursday, July 2nd, 2020


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**Continue to watch this page for the up to date schedule


** If you are aware of a fireworks display that is not listed here, please sent it to skooknews@outlook.com or message us via our Facebook page.


Bixler Pyrotechnics


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