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Family Looking for Lavelle Man Missing Since Tuesday

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A family is asking for help locating a man that hasn't been seen or heard from since Tuesday.

Josh Philippy, 22, has been missing since Tuesday, June 16th, 2020 and according to his family he was last seen leaving his moms house in Lavelle. 

Philippy is reported to have been driving a 90’s Purple GMC Jimmy with a red hood. 

Philippy is described as being approx 5’10 and 190lbs and was last seen wearing a maroon Bethel Fire Company shirt. 

Anyone with information on his whereabouts are asked to contact the Butler Township Police Department at (570) 875-4131 or contact Schuylkill County Communications at (570) 462-1991.

Gary Wegman wins 9th District Democratic Primary

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Berks County dentist and farmer, Dr. Gary Wegman will go on to challenge incumbent Congressman Daniel Meuser in November.
After weeks of tallying, Dr. Gary Wegman, a Berks County dentist and farmer has won the Democratic primary contest for Pennsylvania’s 9th Congressional District over Laura Quick and will face incumbent GOP Congressman Daniel Meuser in November’s general election.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of State, Wegman with 27,449 votes defeated Quick with 26,384 votes.

Wegman is a lifelong resident of Berks County who is running for Congress because “he believes that we can’t afford the “politics as usual” that has led to the gridlock and bad ideas in Washington,  ideas that have ignored and left behind the people in our region while politicians and special interests have prospered.”

According to a press release, Wegman says he is highlighting the rising cost of prescription medications and health insurance, as well as the need for infrastructure investment and support for 9th District agricultural communities.

When asked for comment, Wegman said that he is “humbled and honored at the support that he received during the election. The people of the 9th District are looking for real solutions to the real issues that they face, not more politics of division. Wegman says he is looking forward to working with our entire community to bring living wage jobs and affordable healthcare to hard-working Americans.”

Pennsylvania's 9th Congressional District is located in eastern Pennsylvania and includes portions of Berks, Carbon, Columbia, Lebanon, Luzerne, Montour, Northumberland, and Schuylkill counties.

Eaglet Named "Lager" Released in Honor of Yuengling's Partnership with the American Eagle Foundation

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On Saturday, the American Eagle Foundation has partnered up with Yuengling to release eagles into the wild.

The 8-Hour Stream began around 10:00am Saturday.

This morning, an eaglet, proudly named “Lager,” was released in honor of Yuengling’s partnership with the American Eagle Foundation. The Lager is an iconic beer associated with America’s Oldest Brewery, just like the iconic Bald Eagle is associated with our country. Earlier this year, Yuengling and AEF brought together these two symbols to create limited-edition AEF Lager cans that helped raise further awareness for AEF’s conservation efforts. 

AEF will continue sharing updates on Lager throughout the day on its 8-hour livestream celebrating conservation.





One Fatal, Multiple Injured in Crash on Route 901 in Foster Township

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On Saturday, multiple people were injured and one person has died after a crash in Foster Township on Route 901.

Around 8:00pm, Saturday, emergency personnel were dispatched to Route 901 in the area of the Interstate 81 interchange for a motor vehicle accident with entrapment.

In the crash, a pickup truck and an SUV collided head-on in the middle of the overpass.

Two victims were entrapped in the SUV for almost a half hour.  Multiple emergency personnel worked together to free the both of the victims.  One other person also suffered serious injuries in the crash.

A Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner was also called to the scene for one of the victims.

At least one of the victims was also flown to an area hospital.

The driver of the pickup was reported to have suffered minor injuries.

Route 901 was closed in the area while the scene was cleared and investigated.

We will post more information on this crash when it's available.

Story and Photos by J. Reed



 











Skook News Obituaries for 06/20/2020

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Skook News Obituaries for 06/20/2020

Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

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Savannah P. Glaspie
, 11 years old, of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2020, at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania.

Born Wednesday, November 5, 2008 in Lehighton, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Merle Glaspie and Laura P. (Cook) Glaspie. Savannah is also survived by; brother, Matthew Cook, sister, Avery Cook; paternal grandmother, Delores Pelton of Tamaqua, aunts and cousins.

Savannah was a fifth grade student at West Penn Elementary School in Tamaqua. Savannah loved school, and insisted to dress in her school uniform every day while schooling from home over these past months. During the summer months, Savannah would keep detailed lists of all her needed supplies for the upcoming school year as she anxiously anticipated returning to her beloved teachers and friends. Savannah was a fan of Homer Simpson, and loved her dogs.

In spite of many congenital difficulties Savannah persevered and brought much joy to those who knew her. Savannah's premature death is a great loss to family, friends, teacher and the staff of the West Penn Elementary School.

The E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252, (570) 668-2550 has be entrusted with her care.

Online condolences or a fond memory of Savannah may be expressed by visiting www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com

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These Obituaries are brought to you by

Victim ID'd in Fatal Foster Township Crash

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The victim in a fatal crash in Foster Township was identified by police.

According to Foster Township Police, around 8:00pm, Saturday, emergency personnel were dispatched to Route 901 in the area of the Interstate 81 interchange for a motor vehicle accident with entrapment.

In the crash, a pickup truck driven by Ryan Little, 23, of Mount Carmel, and an SUV, driven by Crystal Rausch, 50, of Pottsville, collided head-on in the middle of the overpass.

Police say Little crossed over the yellow line and into the path of Rausch, pushing Rausch's SUV into the bridge's rail.

Rausch was partially ejected in the crash, and had to be extricated by emergency personnel and later pronounced dead at the scene by Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner Al Barnes.

Also entrapped in the SUV was Cathy Walacavage-Andrachick, 61, of Pottsville.  She also was extricated by emergency personnel and flown to an area hospital with injuries.

A passing motorist who saw the crash was able to get a 10 year old boy out of the SUV,  and was said to have suffered a broken arm and leg and was flown to an area hospital.

Little was also said to have suffered injuries and was taken via ambulance to the hospital.

Responding to the scene were the Minersville Rescue, Yorkvilla Rescue, South Cass Fire Company, Mountaineer Fire Company, Clover Fire Company, Lavelle Fire Company, Minersville Ambulance, Ashland Ambulance, and police from Foster Township, Minersville, and Cass Township.

The crash is still under investigation by a State Police Crash Reconstruction Team.

Ashland Man Wanted for Assault and Cruelty to Animals

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The Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville are investigating an incident that involved an alleged assault and hitting a dog with a bat.

According to Troopers, on Saturday, around 5:15am, Daniel Leary, 41, of Ashland confronted and threatened another man with a metal baseball bat in the 1500 Block of Walnut Street in Ashland.

Leary reportedly struck the man twice with the bat causing injuries to his upper right arm and left hand.  Leary also hit the man's dog with the bat.  Leary then pushed the man out of the home and fled the scene.

State Police have prepared criminal charges against Leary for Aggravated assault, cruelty to animals, and other related charges.

An arrest warrant was issued by on-call Magisterial District Judge Reiley.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville at (570) 874-5300.

Skook News Obituaries for 06/21/2020

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Skook News Obituaries for 06/21/2020

Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

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Elizabeth “Betsey” A Stumpp, 78, of Pottsville, passed away in the presence of her family on Sunday at home.

Born on January 4, 1942 in Pottsville, she was a daughter of the late Edward and Elizabeth Niadna Burnett. She was raised in Tamaqua, having attended St. Jerome School. She was a 1959 graduate of Marian High School. She has resided in Pottsville for 52 years. She worked for the former Van Heusen Company, Pottsville.

She was a member of St. Patrick Church, Pottsville.

Preceding her in death was a sister, Joan Farnschlader.

Betsy is survived by her husband of 58 years, James H. Stump; two daughters, Regina “Jean Lynn (spouse, Bob), Pottsville, and Kelly Brown (spouse, Harry), Coatesville, Indiana; 9 grandchildren, Daneen McDonald (spouse, Gene), Vicki Svercek (spouse, Jason), Jeremiah Lynn, Josh Lynn, Kelsie Lynn, Nava Brown, Laurel Brown and Celeste Brown; three great-grandchildren, Miranda Seiger, Kieran Bush, and Isaac Seiger. She is also survived by a sister, Regina Valentine (spouse, Michael); nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are incomplete.

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These Obituaries are brought to you by


Woman Scammed Out of $67,000 by Fake Employer

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The Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville are investigating a report of theft by deception in the North Union Township section of Eagle Rock.

Police say on June 19th, 2020, they learned a 73 year old Hazleton woman was offered job by a fake employer to send money for a business-related debt.

The victim sent various amounts of money to the fake employer totaling $67,000.

Anyone with information on this investigation is asked to contact the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville at (570) 874-5300.

Gular Powers to Big Diamond victory, Stillwagon wins URC season opener, Manmiller Wins his First Sportsman Feature

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Fighting the weather all night, Big Diamond Speedway persevered and the large crowd of fans on hand were treated to another great night of racing. 

The always consistent Mike Gular finally was able to grab that elusive victory he was searching for at Big Diamond. Gular had last won at the speedway back in July of 2011. The winged warriors of the United Racing Club opened up their season last night and it was Robbie Stillwagon standing in victory lane after leading all 25 laps. Second generation driver Cody Manmiller who just moved up from the 600cc modifieds to the crate sportsman division visited victory lane in only his second race at the speedway. Chris Holland was the roadrunner winner with Austin Bellemare winning the Central PA Legends feature.

Eddie Strada and Tim Apgar brought the Insinger Performance Modifieds to the green flag in their 25-lap main event with Strada getting the jump and taking command. Duane Howard starting from the seventh spot started making early moves and was up to fourth by lap six. The first yellow of the race was brought out when the No. 16 of Cory Merkel slowed in turn two.

Strada let the field back to green with Colt Harris, Doug Hendricks, Howard and a hard charging Alex Yankowski all right behind the leader. One lap later the yellow was out again as Yankowksi and Hendricks made contact causing Hendricks to spin. Howard made a sharp right turn to try and avoid the spinning Hendricks and was clipped by another car causing his front end to collapse ending his good run. While all this was going 13th place starter Mike Gular was quietly making his way to the front and when the race restarted found himself in third behind Strada and Yankowski.

Strada maintained his lead on the restart as Yankowski tried to use the outside to get past, coming into turn three Yankowski tried the high side once again and when he did Gular boldly made his move for second before Yankowski could get back down to block. Once in second Gular set his sights on Strada and was right on the open wheel star turned modified drivers back bumper. Strada was looking good and was holding off the veteran Gular when Brett Kressley stopped to bring out the race’s final caution on lap 22.

It was the young Strada versus the veteran Gular on the restart and the veteran didn’t disappoint as he charged around Strada on the restart and was able to get back down low going into turn one to hold off any move Strada was going to try and make. Once in front Gular started to distance himself from Strada who now had to hold off the advances of Yankowski.

Gular streaked under starter Jeff Merkel’s checkered flag for the crowd-pleasing win. Yankowski was able to get by Strada for second relegating Strada to third. Tuesday night’s Anthracite Assault winner Billy Pauch jr was fourth with Jeff Strunk making a late charge to finish fifth.

“Strada was really good tonight and I think he’s going to be a problem all year,” said a victorious Gular talking to track announcer Dino Oberto after his big win. “We’ve had a bunch of top fives in the past couple of weeks wherever we went and tonight I wasn’t going to settle for another fifth here tonight. This place has been tough for me and it’s been a long time since I’ve won here. I have thank my car owner Terry (Fasnacht), my crew and all my sponsors. This quarantine deal gave us time to get all of cars done and get everything the way we want it to be and it feels great and it’s showing now.”

The 25-lap URC feature saw Robbie Stillwagon lead the field to the green flag and immediately jumped out to take charge. The race saw a rash of yellow flags slow down the action throughout but that didn’t phase Stillwagon one bit as he stayed in front, the race had one long green flag run through the middle with Curt Michael running Stillwagon down as the two leaders threaded their way through lapped traffic. Michael gave it all he had but no one was going to beat Stillwagon on this night as he led all 25 laps to take the URC season opener. Michael held off a charging Josh Weller for second followed by Troy Betts and Dallas Schott.

“We had a great car tonight,” mentioned Stillwagon. “Last year I lost one here because of a lapped car so this year I tried to be a little more patient although I don’t think it looked like it. The track was a little tricky for some of the guys, we changed a lot for the feature to be able to run the top because it had a little bit of a cushion there. We don’t really see that here, great for Big Diamond for not running that bad boy down.”

The Savage 61 Crate Sportsman made their 2020 season debut with Ryan Graver and Cody Manmiller on the front row for their 20-lap feature event. Manmiller takes the lead from the drop of the green flag, a couple of early yellow flags slowed the action. Back racing and Manmiller continues to lead the way with Graver all over him trying to get by. Dakota Kohler from his sixth starting spot moves into third and starts to run down the leaders but on lap seven Kohlers race was over as his front-end breaks.

Manmiller would continue to lead the way as Jonathan Swift wanted in on the action up front as he started to make some moves. While the leaders were battling amongst themselves, 10th place starting Danny Buccafusca was working his way towards the front finding his way past Swift for third on lap eleven. Manmiller was starting to put some distance between himself and Graver who now had to try and fight off the charges of Buccafusca. Buccafusca was able to work his way past Graver and started to close in on Manmiller but ran out of time as the second-generation driver won his first ever sportsman feature. Buccafusca, Graver, Swift and Howie Finch completed the top five.

Matt Ney led from the start of the Red White and Blue Autos roadrunner race and was looking like an easy winner. After taking the white flag signaling one to go Ney came up on a lapped car going down the backstretch, unfortunately for Ney that was his demise as he tangled with the lapped car causing him to spin out less than a half a track away from the win. Ney’s loss was Chris Holland’s gain as he was now the new leader. Holland would go on to win the race after a spirited last lap battle with Jesse Krasnitsky. Mike Reichert, Jim Kost and Shawn Mulhall were the top five.

The Central PA Legend cars invaded the speedway for their first visit of 2020 with Austin Bellemare taking the win after long battle with Bill Diehl.

Results 6/12/2020 - Presented by SA Communale

United Racing Club 360 Sprint Cars – The feature was won by Robbie Stillwagon and followed by Curt Michael, Josh Weller, Dallas Schott, Troy Betts, Tyler Ross, Chad Layton, Anthony Macri, Adam Carberry, Brian Carber, Joe Kata, Hayden Miller, Brandon McGough, Joey Amantea, Ryan Watt, Devin Gundrum, Jacob Balliet, Michael Thomas, Ryan Stillwagon, JR Berry, Ryan Kissinger and Keith Wetzel.

Did Not Start - Jake Hummel, Mike Schuckers, Kyle Smith and Austin Bishop.

Insinger Performance 358 Modifieds – The feature was won by Mike Gular and followed by Alex Yankowski, Eddie Strada, Billy Pauch Jr, Jeff Strunk, Matt Stangle, Nick Rochinski, Craig VonDohren, Colt Harris, Jared Umbenhauer, Rick Laubach, Louden Reimert, Doug Hendricks, Kevin Beach Jr, Frank Yankowski, Mike Lisowski, Brett Kressley, Shawn Fitzpatrick, Craig Whitmoyer, Duane Howard, Tim Apgar, Kris Graver, Cory Merkel and Timmy Buckwalter.

Did Not Qualify - Ray Swinehart and Ron Haring Jr.

Modified Heat Races were won by Craig Whitmoyer, Duane Howard and Eddie Strada.

Modified Consi Race was won by Brett Kressley.

Ultra-Shield Hard Charger Award - Mike Gular

Rod End Supply Halfway Leader Award - Eddie Strada

Savage 61 602 Crate Sportsman – The feature was won by Cody Manmiller and followed by Danny Buccafusca, Ryan Graver, Jonathan Swift, Ryan Conrad, Howie Finch, Joe Toth, Pete Phillips, Eric Kocher, Daryl Dissinger, Shon Elk, Mark Clauss, Corey Edelman, Craig Cuneo, Joey Vaccaro, Dakota Kohler, Kevin Brady and Kris Ney.

602 Crate Sportsman Heat Races were won by Corey Edelman and Cody Manmiller.

Ultra-Shield Hard Charger Award - Danny Buccafusca

Rod End Supply Halfway Leader Award - Cody Manmiller

Gene Latta Ford Central PA Legends - The feature was won by Austin Bellemare and followed by Bill Diehl, Aaron Updegraff, Cole Hahn, Shawn Groft, Tim Hahn, Quinn Trimmer, Cory Phillips, Eric Hurst, Logan Carbaugh, Scott Musselman, Zach Baxter, Robert Shaw, Troy Groft, Brent Marquis, John Snavely and Brandon Reiblich.

Did Not Start - Jonathan Robinson.

Central PA Legends Heat Races were won by Bill Diehl and Brent Marquis.

Red, White & Blue Auto's Roadrunners – The feature was won by Chris Holland and followed by Jesse Krasnitsky, Mike Reichert, Jim Kost, Alex Schoffstall, Terry Kramer, Ronny Suhr Jr, Chris Reichert, Seth Reichert, Shawn Mulhall, Matt Ney, Ronny Suhr Sr, Tod Roth Jr, Tonya Lance, Jason Kintzer, Cory Lindenmuth, Kevin Holland, TJ Fitzpatrick and Alex Ditzler.

Roadrunner Heat Races were won by Mike Reichert and Chris Holland.

Ultra-Shield Hard Charger Award - Alex Schoffstall

Pottsville to Host Inaugural LGBTQ+ Festival This Saturday

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This Saturday, the City of Pottsville will play host to the city's Inaugural LGBTQ+ Celebration at Gen. Goerge Joulwan East Side Park and amphitheater.

As part of Pride Month, Mikaela Gavaletz, a Pottsville resident, has taken the initiative to bring the community together in Schuylkill County to enjoy a day of music, food trucks, distinguished speakers and a cavalcade of Drag performers from most of the surrounding Counties.

Gavaletz said she could no longer be silent on the many issues that the Gay and Transgender community suffer.

The celebration will take place at Pottsville's Gen. George Joulwan East Side Park and Amphitheater on Saturday, June 27th, 2020.

With a basis to educate, the celebration will included speakers:

1:00pm - Maria Sanelli - a professor from Kutztown University, author, Education Consultant and Director of the Frederick Douglass Institute

2:00pm - Dani Kilcullen - a 14 year old representative speaking on behalf of the Trans Youth Community

4:00pm - Matt Haslam - A Schuylkill County resident who has a strong voice as an advocate for the LGBTQ+ Community and is an activist representing “Powered by Rainbows”, “The Pennsylvania Equality Project” and “The Schuylkill County LGBTQ Club”.

The event will conclude with a performances by Drag Queen and Drag King Performers. 

14 performers will be on hand including "Miss Gay Pennsylvania" and "Mis. Divinity Cruzz", from Lehigh County.

Food Trucks will be available, attendees should wear their pride colors, and COVID-19 Safe Precautions will be encouraged. 




Man Locked up in Schuylkill County Prison for Burglary in Girardville

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A man is locked up in Schuylkill County Prison for breaking into and entering a home in Girardville on Friday.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, on Friday, June 19th, 2020 around 10:00am, State Troopers responded to a home on West Main Street in Girardville for a burglary.

Through an investigation is was determined that George Hepler, 33, of Girardville, gained entry through a basement window.

The homeowner heard Hepler, and after approaching him a verbal altercation took place in the rear of the home.  Hepler than fled the area leaving behind the stolen items.

During the incident Hepler attempted to steal a fishing tackle box and damaged the window frame when he broke in.

Hepler was later located and taken into custody.

Hepler was charged with felony charges of burglary and criminal trespass, a misdemeanor charge of theft by unlawful taking, and criminal mischief.

Hepler was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker and locked up in Schuylkill County Prison on $25,000 cash bail.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 24th, 2020.

Diocese Announces Closure of Former Church Building in Saint Clair and Merger of Parish in Minersville

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On Sunday, the Diocese of Allentown announced the closure of a building in St. Clair and the merger of Minersville parishes.

Closure of Former Building in Saint Clair

According to the Diocese of Allentown, the former Immaculate Conception church building in Saint Clair, now being maintained by Saint Clare of Assisi Parish, will be closed because of declining use and rising maintenance costs.

Since 2008, the building has been used for Mass one day per year, and for funerals of former Immaculate Conception parishioners. The Diocese says attendance at that Mass has been declining, and the number of funerals has significantly declined.

The costs of maintaining the building can no longer be borne by the parishioners of Saint Clare of Assisi Parish, nor is the parish able to raise sufficient funds to cover the costs, said Monsignor William Glosser, pastor.

The closing recommendation of Monsignor Glosser, made in consultation with his Parish Council, was reviewed by the Diocesan Council of Priests and the Diocesan Pastoral Planning Commission, which likewise recommended the action to Bishop Alfred Schlert.

The church building will close effective July 1. All sacred images, furnishings, vessels and altars will be removed and preserved for use by Saint Clare of Assisi Parish or another parish. All proceeds from the sale of the former church building, or of any items such as stained glass windows, will be retained by Saint Clare of Assisi Parish. These proceeds will not go to the Diocese of Allentown.

Parishioners at Saint Clare of Assisi Parish were told about the closure at this weekend’s Masses. 


Two Minersville Parishes to Merge

According to the Diocese of Allentown, two parishes in Minersville are merging to create a stronger, more unified Catholic presence in the community.

The Parish Advisory Council and the Parish Financial Committee of both Saint Matthew the Evangelist Parish and Saint Michael the Archangel Parish have voted unanimously to support the merger.

Father Jason Stokes, pastor at both parishes, will be pastor of the newly created parish, which will be named Holy Family Parish of Minersville. Both the St. Matthew and the St. Michael church buildings will remain open, and the merged congregation will use both churches for worship.

“Our new name, Holy Family, stresses that we are coming together as one new, vibrant parish family with two churches,” said Father Stokes. “I’m pleased that the parishioners have taken such an active role in this positive step for our worship community.”

The merger recommendation of Father Stokes was reviewed by the Diocesan Council of Priests and the Diocesan Pastoral Planning Commission, which likewise recommended the action to Bishop Alfred Schlert.

In conjunction with the merger, the Finance and Advisory committees at St. Matthew the Evangelist have recommended unanimously that the underutilized St. Francis of Assisi church building be closed. The Church has been open in recent years only for one Mass per year, on the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, and for funerals. However, there have been no funerals held there since 2008.

The building is expected to need major repairs in the near future, and is no longer needed to serve the pastoral needs of the Catholic community in Minersville, Father Stokes said.

The merger is effective July 1. Parishioners were notified at Masses this weekend (June 20-21.)

Schuylkill County Police Log for 06/22/2020

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Schuylkill County Police Log for 06/22/2020

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Allentown Woman Facing Drug Charges After Traffic Stop

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, on Saturday, June 20th, 2020 around 7:45pm, a traffic stop was conducted for a traffic violation on a vehicle in the Southbound lanes of Interstate 81 in Ryan Township.

Police say the passenger in the vehicle, a 43 year old woman from Allentown was found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana.

State Police will be filing charges on the woman.  The woman's identity was not released in the report.

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Wilkes Barre Man Facing Harassment and Disorderly Contact Charges for Incident in Mahanoy Township

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, on Saturday, June 20th, 2020 around 2:00pm, Troopers responded to a store on Morea Road in Mahanoy Township.

Police say an investigation led to the finding that Gera Borrero Laracuente, 37, of Wilkes Barre got involved in a verbal altercation with an employee over the price of water.

Prior to exiting the store, Borrero Laracuente spit on the employee and the employee in the right shoulder.

Charges of harassment and disorderly contact were filed with Magisterial District Judge Anthony Kilker's office.

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Skook News Obituaries for 06/22/2020

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Skook News Obituaries for 06/22/2020


Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.


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Eric Richard Jones
, 41, of New Tripoli, PA and formerly of Lehighton, PA, died on Thursday, June 18, 2020 in West Penn Township, PA. 

He was the husband of Sarah (nee Theobald) Jones to whom he was married 10 years. Born in Coaldale, PA on February 14, 1979, Eric was the son of Richard and Bonnie (nee Mohrbach) Jones of Lehighton. A 1997 graduate of the Carbon County Area Vocational Technical School, he earned a degree in Environmental and Safety Management in 1999 from Northampton Community College. Eric worked for Pitt Ohio Express for 11 years before taking operation and ownership of Jones Sanitation for the last 7 years. He was a member of Ebenezer United Church of Christ, New Tripoli and the Ontelaunee Rod & Gun Club, New Tripoli. Very mechanical minded, Eric fully restored a 1965 Pontiac GTO. 

In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by children, Caleb Jones and Delana Jones at home; sister, Lisa Jones Roesch and her husband Michael of Chatham, NJ; 3 nephews; a niece; and grandmother, Kathleen Jones of Tamaqua, PA. 

Eric was predeceased by a son, Alexander in 2010. 

Services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, June 26 at the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home, 500 East Broad Street, Tamaqua with The Rev. Lance Moyer officiating. Interment in Jacob’s Union Church Cemetery, Jacksonville, New Tripoli will follow the services. Call 9-11 AM at the funeral home. Attendees are reminded of the COVID-19 pandemic guidelines and are kindly asked to wear a mask and observe physical distancing. In lieu of flowers, his family asks that memorials be made to an educational fund for his children in care of the funeral home. 

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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Christine Marie Steele, 57, of Schuylkill Haven, passed away Saturday, June 20th, at Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill, E. Norwegian St., Pottsville.

Christine was born in Pottsville on March 4, 1963, a daughter of the late Mary Jane (Porter) and Ronald Lynch.

She was a graduate of Blue Mountain High School and formerly employed by Hollander Sleep Products, Pottsville.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother David Lynch.

Christine is survived by a son, Travis, husband of Brooke Kalbach, of Schuylkill Haven; a brother, John Lynch, of Schuylkill Haven; a grand daughter, Aubrey Lynch; a niece, Jessica Reppert; a nephew, Ian Lynch.

A visitation for family and friends will be held at Geschwindt-Stabingas Funeral Home, Inc., Schuylkill Haven on Friday, June 26th from 10-11am. No service will be held.

Interment will be held privately at Schuylkill Memorial Park Schuylkill Haven.

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Peter Rachko, of Frackville, died June 20, 2020.

Born in Frackville, he was a son of the late Michael and Julia Rachko.

He graduated from Frackville High School and Ford School of Business.

Peter served in the Army with the rank of specialist E5, stationed in Korea. He retired from the Finance and Accounting Office at Fort Indiantown Gap. He was the supervisor of the Quality Assurance Office.

He was a member of Holy Ascension Orthodox Church, Frackville, where he served on the church council.

He was a life member of Good Will Fire Company, Frackville, life member of the Saint Clair AMVETS Post 142 and a member of VFW Post 9639 Shellsville.

He was preceded in death by brothers, Stephen, the Rev. John, George, Dimitri and the Rev. Michael; sisters, Mary Harrahus and Helen Van Cleave.

Surviving are nieces, nephews and his friend, Larue Lightner.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 26, 2020, at Holy Ascension Orthodox Church, 209 S. Lehigh Ave., Frackville, PA 17931. The Very Rev. James Jadick will officiate. Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Ascension Church Building Fund at the above address. Interment with military honors will be held in Holy Ascension Orthodox Cemetery, Frackville. Nice-Hart Funeral Home Inc., Frackville, is in charge of arrangements.

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Carol A. Herb
, 77, of Frackville, died Friday, June 19, 2020, at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton.

Born Nov. 10, 1942, in Frackville, she was a daughter of the late William and Dorothy (Dillman) Herb.

She retired from Acme Super Markets, having worked at various stores.

Carol was a very active member of Trinity Evangelical Congregational Church, Frackville, serving as a trustee on its board and a lay delegate to its conference.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, David Herb and Raymond Herb.

Surviving are sister, Joan Palsgrove and her husband, Orval, Frackville; Godchild and caretaker, Brianna Dixon, Frackville; nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, June 29, 2020, from Trinity Evangelical Congregational Church, 56 N. Balliet St., Frackville. The Rev. Jeff Merwine will officiate. Friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. June 29 at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Trinity EC Church at the above address. Burial will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Frackville.

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Theresa M. Kanick, 90, a resident of the Shenandoah High Rise Apartments passed away early Monday morning, June 22, 2020 at Schuylkill Medical Center-East Norwegian Street, Pottsville.

Born in Shenandoah on June 24, 1929 she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Antoinette “Tessie” (Kiauleviciute) Kanick.

She was a retired garment worker having last worked for the former Villa Fashions, Shenandoah.

Theresa was a member of Divine Mercy Parish, Shenandoah formerly Saint George’s Church. She was also a member of the ILGWU. She was an avid sports fan and enjoyed fishing, picking huckleberries and mushrooms and tending to her garden. Above all, she cherished the time spent with her family. She was a kind person who was very generous to her family and friends.

Preceding her in death in addition to her parents were two brothers, Anthony and John Kanick; three sisters, Jean Schaff, Mary Domozik and Anna Chowansky; and two nephews, Robert Kanick and Joseph Domozik. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

Surviving are her nieces and nephews, Joan Thomas, Antoinette Tranter and her husband Terry, Linda Schaaf, Diane Sinclair and her husband Randy, Paul Chowansky and his wife Julie, Patricia Chowansky, Karen Natale and her husband Joseph and Harry Chowansky, III and his wife Lisa; great-nieces, great-nephews and many friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at 10:00 am in Divine Mercy Church, 232 West Cherry Street, Shenandoah with Monsignor Ronald C. Bocian, Pastor as the celebrant. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family. All CDC and PA Department of Health COVID-19 guidelines will be observed.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to Divine Mercy Parish Memorial Fund or the Father Walter J. Ciszek Chapel Fund, both c/o 108 West Cherry Street, Shenandoah, PA 17976.

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

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Child Found in Car After Woman Overdoses in Rush Township

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A child is safe after being found in a car with an unresponsive female as a result of an overdose.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, on Sunday, June 21st, 2020 around 9:00pm, Troopers responded to the area of Holly Road and Pine Creek Drive in Rush Township for a report of an overdose.

Three people that had driven by, noticed a vehicle parked on the shoulder of the roadway with the passenger side door open and no driver.

A closer look, led the people to find a New Philadelphia woman, unresponsive in the backseat of the vehicle along with a 3 year old child.

EMS responded and after several doses of Narcan, the woman became responsive.

The child was taken into custody by a family member and was not injured during the incident.

The woman was taken to an area hospital and State Police will be filing charges of endangering the welfare of a child through Magisterial District Judge Stephen Bayer's office.

North Schuylkill School Board Approves 2020-2021 Budget and Other Items During June Monthly

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The North Schuylkill School Board held their monthly meeting on June 17th, 2020 in the High School's LGI Boardroom.

This marked the board's first in-person meeting after holding remote meetings the past several months.  A limit of 25 people were allowed to attend, with each attendee being required to wear a mask and also have their temperature checked prior to entering.

The following items were discussed/approved during the meeting

Under Finance, the Final Budget for the 2020-2021 school year was approved.  The budget included a 3% tax increase upping the millage from 2019-2020 budget from 42.34 mills to 43.65 mills.  Tax payers are expected to see an average tax increase of $52.

The budget included $31,430,470 in total expenditures.  The district was left with a $615,000 deficit after an unexpected loss of $125,000 in state funds which will be offset by not replacing one high school and two elementary teaching positions that were left vacant by retirees.  Employees have also agreed to pay more towards health care premiums saving the district $75,000.  The district also saved $135,000 through out of school student placements in alternative education programs.

In prepared statement by School Board President Charles Hepler stated:

"With the passing of this year's budget, this board and administration has worked diligently to reach a final number that was palatable in the current climate.  In looking to carve out the deficit spending we had cooperation from the North Schuylkill Education Association, North Schuylkill Education Support Persons Association and the Adminstrative Staff who all agreed to contributing more for the health insurance benefits, we will also forgo filling three teaching positions due to retirements, and utilizing some monies from the general fund balance to close the gap.  This became increasingly more difficult over the past few weeks with the State Budget Projections set for a five-month period and the use of flat funding with NO increase for 20-21 in state dollars."

The board motioned and approved the establishment of the current local taxes and real estate tax rates.

The board motioned and approved the dates for the Real Estate and Occupational Assessment Tax payments 

The board motioned and approved the Seltzer Group as the Insurance Advisor to secure coverage for Property and Liability Insurance with Wright Specialty Insurance for the 2020-2021 school year 

The board motioned and approved McGriff Insurance Services as the Insurance Advisor to secure coverage for Workers Compensation Insurance with UPMC Health Benefits, Inc. for the 2020-2021 school year 

The board motioned and approved the designation of depositories for 2020-2021 school year 

The board motioned and approved the Resolution approving a 2019 Note Modification Agreement  Reducing the Interest Rate on the General Obligation Note 

The board motioned and approved the Resolution Calling for the General Assembly to Provide Critical Support and Mandate Relief Benefitting Public Schools and Students Authorized the Board Secretary to submit PlanCon Park K:  Project Refinancing Board Transmittal 

The board motioned and approved the sale of repository properties in Girardville and Ashland.

The board motioned and approved an agreement with Permission Safe Inc. (DBA ZippSlip) 

The board motioned and approved the addendum to Extend Agreement with ESS Northeast, LLC 
 
Under Physical Facilities,

The board motioned and approved a Facility Use Application 

Under Personnel,
 
The board motioned and approved Dr. Rob Thurich as the School Doctor for the 2020-2021 school year 

The board motioned and approved Dr. Frank Blozousky as the School Dentist for the 2020-2021 school year 

The board motioned and approved Ann Subick as a Homebound Teacher for the 2020-2021 school year 

The board motioned and approved a childbearing/childbearing leave request for Marina Refi, Secondary Special Education Teacher 

The board motioned and approved an MOU with the NSEA for a premium increase for the 2020-2021 school year Acknowledged the transfer/change of assignment for the following individuals for the 2020-2021 school year:  Mary Lou Leibensperger, Erin Anderson, Matt Wislosky and Nancy Nestor 

The board motioned and approved the issuance of permanent contracts for Taia Carpency, Amber McCabe, Kaitlin Mroczka and Pete Stanakis Approved an MOU with the NSESPA for a premium increase for the 2020-2021 school year 
 
Curriculum & Instructional Programs 

Board Member Susan O'Neill acknowledged the graduation of the Class of 2020 

The board motioned and approved the adoption of textbooks Approved the revised 2019-2020 Title I Letter of Agreement with the IU 29 

The board motioned and approved the changes to the National Honor Society Academic Requirements 

The board motioned and approved the Comprehensive Plan – July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2024 

The board acknowledged that the District will not be administering the Keystone Exams for the entire Spring 2019-2020 cohort 

The board motioned and approved the Flexible Instructional Day Application for the 2020-2021 school year 

The board motioned and approved the Intent to Participate Agreement with the Schuylkill IU 29 for the 2020-2021 Title III:  Language Instruction for LEP and Immigrant Students 

The board motioned and approved the Gifted Manual for the 2020-2021 school year

The board motioned and approved the Special Education Procedural Manual for the 2020-2021 school year

The board motioned and approved the Special Education Paraprofessional Guidelines and Procedures for the 2020-2021 school year 

The board motioned and approved the PA Chapter 339 K-12 School Guidance Plan for the 2020-2021 school year Approved the TIPS Manual for the 2020-2021 school year  
 
Under Food Service, Safety, Transportation 

The board motioned and approved an MOU with the Schuylkill County Children and Youth Services regarding transportation procedures

The board motioned and approved Dr. Robert Ackell as the Pandemic Coordinator for the Phased School Reopening Health and Safety Plan Authorized the participation in Child Nutrition Programs for the 2020-2021 school year 
 
Extracurricular Programs

The board motioned and approved Allison Hughes as a Volunteer Varsity/Junior Varsity Basketball Cheerleading Coach for the 2020-2021 Season and a Volunteer Varsity/Junior High/Junior Varsity Football Cheerleading Coach for the 2020 Season 

The board motioned and approved the Resocialization of Sports Recommendations and Participation Waiver for Communicable Diseases including COVID-19

The board motioned and approved Tyler Mutchler as the Head Volleyball Coach for the 2020 Fall Season 

The board motioned and approved Brooke Ennis as the Head Junior High/Assistant Varsity Cross Country Coach for the 2020  Season 
  
Policy/Legislative 

The board motioned and approved the first reading of the following policy:  217 
 
 Other Reports 

The board motioned and approved the Notice of Adoption of Policies, Procedures and Use of Funds with the Schuylkill IU 29 Authorized the Superintendent and Business Manager to approve plans/use of funds during the summer months  

Man Leads Police in Pursuit from Hazleton Area to Mahanoy Township

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An attempted traffic stop in the Hazleton area led to a nearly 20 mile pursuit into Schuylkill County on Monday.

According to Public Information Officer Anthony Petroski, of the Pennsylvania Troop N, a pursuit began in Hazle Township near Hazleton around 6:30pm after a Troopers from the Hazleton Barracks attempted to make a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation..

A pursuit began and followed Route 924 into Shenandoah and eventually back on to Route 924 where the driver and his vehicle were eventually stopped in Mahanoy Township in the area of Vito Rinaldi Chevrolet.

Numerous local police including Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville assisted with the pursuit.

The driver was taken into custody without incident.

The identity of the driver was not released as of update from State Police at 9:00am.



Schuylkill County Students Graduate from Reach Cyber Charter Schoo

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Five graduating students from Schuylkill County were celebrated by friends, family, and faculty as members of Reach Cyber Charter School’s Class of 2020. 

These students were among the 465 high school seniors, Reach Cyber’s second-ever graduating class, who participated in the tuition-free online school’s virtual commencement ceremony on Tuesday, June 9.

Reach Cyber Charter School Class of 2020 graduates from Schuylkill County
 - Zander DeLong
 - Arlene Kaminsky
 - Travis Penberth
 - Lilia Phillips
 - Tyler Stuber

A statewide STEM-focused cyber school, Reach Cyber served more than 3,600 students in grades K-12 this school year. The majority of the graduates in the Class of 2020 have plans to further their education or start a career. Approximately 42% of the graduating seniors plan to attend a two or four-year college, 22% have decided to enter the workforce, 13% plan to attend vocational training, and others have aspirations such as the military or missionary work.

The Class of 2020 was the second-ever class to graduate from Reach Cyber Charter School, which opened in 2016. Additionally, 39 students were inducted into the Inaugural Founders Club, honoring those students who were the first to attend Reach Cyber for their entire high school education in grades 9 through 12.

Reach Cyber’s high school program offers a wide variety of rigorous standards-based courses including honors and AP classes, delivering a strong foundation for whatever path a graduate chooses

Dozens of students in the Class of 2020 are graduating a year or semester earlier than they would have in a traditional program because they pursued Reach Cyber’s Accelerated Pace program, allowing them to attend summer, fall and spring sessions full-time to earn more credits throughout the year.

For more info, check out www.ReachCyberCharter.com.

Two Schuylkill County Men Charged for Leaving Girardville Man's Body in Dauphin County Park

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Two men from Schuylkill County have been charged after they left a man's body in a park in Dauphin County on Monday.

According to the Pennsylvania State Trooper Chris Wright, William Douglass Allen Jr, 24, of Pottsville, and Kyle Anthony Knapp, of Shenandoah,  have been charged after they allegedly left the body of Steven Tyler Middleton, 23, of Girardville in a park in Millersburg in Dauphin County.

According to a press release, on Monday, June 22nd, 2020, around 7:00pm, a 911 call was placed by Allen regarding Middleton being unresponsive in Seal Park on  North Street in Millersburg.

Fire and EMS arrived on scene within minutes and determined that Middleton was deceased.  

Police said numerous interviews were conducted, physical evidence was seized along with a nearby video surveillance, establishing that Allen and Knapp drove to Seal Park and removed Middleton's body from their vehicle and placed his body in the park.

Police say both the accused fabricated a timeline of events and details of Middlton's death to investigators.

On the morning of Tuesday, June 23rd, 2020, an autopsy was performed on Middleton by the Coroner's Office at the Dauphin County Forensic Center, and Middleton's death was currently listed as undetermined and the investigation is still ongoing.

Allen and Knapp were both taken into custody and transported to the Dauphin County Judicial Center for arraignment.

Both were locked up in Dauphin County Prison with Allen's bail set at $100,000.00 and Knapp's set at $50,000.

Anyone else with information, video surveillance, or eyewitness accounts of this incident are asked to contact the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Investigation Unit at (717) 362-8700.  Text messages can also be sent to the Criminal Investigation Unit Tip Line at (717) 943-5402.
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