Quantcast
Channel: Skook News - Your #1 Source for Schuylkill County News
Viewing all 20006 articles
Browse latest View live

Berks County Woman Reported Missing in North Wildwood, NJ

$
0
0
The North Wildwood Police Department in New Jersey is asking for the public's help in finding a Berks County woman reported missing.

According to police, Veronica Stancea, 45, of Fleetwood, Berks County, was last seen exiting the Boardwalk at 20th Avenue on Saturday, July 18th, 2020 around 5:00pm.

Stancea is described as a white female, approximately 5'3" and 140 lbs. with dirty blonde hair and hazel eyes. She was last seen wearing a dark-colored bikini style bathing suit and dark-colored Under Armour backpack but may also be wearing a white tank top, navy blue skirt and brown sandals.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Veronica Stancea is asked to contact North Wildwood Police Dispatch at (609) 522-2411 or use our TEXT-A-TIP by texting TIP NWPD followed by your message, to 888777.


Skook News Obituaries for 07/20/2020

$
0
0


Skook News Obituaries for 07/20/2020


Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

---------------------------------------------------

Katharyne H. Raring
, 92, of Orwigsburg, passed away Friday, July 17, at Seton Manor, Orwigsburg.

Born Nov. 16, 1927, in Altoona, she was a daughter of Joel and Kathryn Leader Haines.

She was the widow of Joseph Raring, who passed away May 12, 1995.

She was a member of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church of Friedensburg.

She went to the Presbyterian School of Nursing in Philadelphia and became a registered nurse. She retired as a registered nurse from Rest Haven, Schuylkill Haven.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by daughters, Cindy Bedway and Barbara Smith, and sisters, Mary Raring and Joann Bauer.

Katharyne is survived by four daughters, Ellen Boyer and her companion, George VanDerlinder, of Greenfield, Mass., Joanne, wife of Bill Ness, of Fawn Grove, Martha, wife of Toby Miller, of Sioux Falls, S.D., and Karen and her companion, Butch Herb, of Lavelle; a son, Lee, husband of Gail Raring, of Auburn; a son-in-law, Randy Bedway. She is also survived by grandchildren, Patrick Raring, husband of Julia, Nathan Raring, husband of Connie, Donavan Ness and companion, Nikki Hoelzer, Stefanie Ness, wife of Christopher Heaps, Natalie Ness and companion, Sam Alcala, Kyle Bedway, husband of Sarvia, Nicole Scronce, wife of Josh, Bryce Becker and companion, Samantha Tobin, and McKenna Becker and companion, Cameron Weeks, Sam Boyer, husband of Ashley, Andy Boyer, husband of Ananda, Karrie Morgan, wife of Ben, and Laura Anderson, wife of Jake; great-grandchildren, Amelia, Joseph, Zolara, Dean, Bria, Isla, Cinnie, McKinley, Emory, Bodhi, Saul and Louisa; a sister, Helen Siegfried, Coatesville.

A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at a later date.

--------------------------------------

Jeanette L. Reiner, 90 of Tremont, passed away on Sunday morning, July 19, in the Tremont Health & Rehab. Center.

Born on December 27, 1929 in Reading, she was the daughter of the late Luther and Ruth Dissinger Leisey.

Jeanette was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Pine Grove and had been employed at Guilford Mills in Pine Grove.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Edwin L. "Ted" Reiner on November 27, 2004, and two brothers, James Leisey and Robert Turner.

Surviving is a brother, Edward and wife Betty Turner of Pine Grove. .

Graveside services and interment will be held at Jacob's Lutheran Cemetery and will be held at the convenience of the family. The H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove, is in charge of arrangements. You may send condolences to the family on our website at www.hlsnyderfuneralhome.com.

--------------------------------------
These Obituaries are brought to you by


Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 07/21/2020

$
0
0

Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 07/21/2020

Tuesday Clouds, Sun, Storms in the Afternoon - High in the Upper 80's
Tuesday Night - Cloudy, Storm Possible - Low in the Mid 60's

-----------------------------------

Wednesday - Clouds, Sun, Showers and Storms - High in the Mid 80's
Wednesday Night - Cloudy - Low in the Upper 60's

Thursday - Clouds and Sun, Thunderstorms - High in the Mid 80's
Thursday Night - Cloudy with Storms Possible - Low in the Mid 60's

-----------------------------------

Friday - Sunny - High in the Mid 80's

Saturday - Clouds and Sun - High in the Lower 80's

Sunday - Clouds and Sun - High in the Upper 80's

Monday - Clouds and Sun, Storm Possible - High near 90

--------------------------------------------

This posting is brought to you by the

Schuylkill Community Education Council


State Police Seek Dirt Biker Rider Who Fled Police

$
0
0
The Pennsylvania State Police are seeking a dirt bike rider that fled police on Monday in Reilly Township.

According to Troopers, on Monday, July 20th, 2020 around 5:45pm, a suspect fled from a traffic stop on a white dirt bike on West Meadow Street, Reilly Township, near Newtown.

The dirt bike was reported to bear registration CCH02 and the rider was described as a white male with long gray hair and missing teeth.

The rider fled west on West Meadow Street, crossed Route 209 and continued through a yard in the 20 unit block of South Tremont Street.

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

Schuylkill County Police Log: July 21st, 2020

$
0
0

Schuylkill County Police Log:  July 21st, 2020

Man Arrested for DUI After Traffic Stop

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven, on July 1st, 2020 around 8:00am, troopers initiated a traffic stop on Justin Reber, 27, of Auburn on Mauch Chunk Street in Pottsville.

Police say Reber was arrested for suspicion of DUI and possession of drug paraphernalia.

---------------------------------------------------

Man Facing Disorderly Conduct Charges.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven, on July 20th, 2020, on Sweet Arrow Lake Road in Wayne Township, Brian Peterson, 21, of Nanticoke was yelling obscenities at woman and started the mower portion of a tracking kicking rock and debris at her.

Peterson faces disorderly conducted charges for the incident.

---------------------------------------------------

Minor Injuries Reported in Butler Township Crash

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, the crash occurred on July 19th, 2020 just before 2:00pm on Big Mine Run Road in Butler Township.

Police say Nathaniel Kimmel, 22, of Girardville was traveling on the two lanes road when he struck a guard rail on the south berm.

Kimmel suffered minor injuries in the crash and was taken to an area hospital.

Assisting State Police at the scene was the Fountain Springs and Lavelle Fire Companies as well as the Washington Ambulance from Ashland.

---------------------------------------------------

Senator Argall Asks Schuylkill County Commissioners to Reject Purchase of Pottsville Property for Prison Pre-Release Center

$
0
0
On Monday, Senator David G. Argall joined the growing support from the community asking the Schuylkill County Commissioners to stop the county from purchasing the former Giant Grocery Store Property for a prison pre-release center.

Late last week, word spread that Schuylkill County was interested in purchasing the property on Progress Avenue in Pottsville for the center.

Many county and city officials opposed the project and pledged to voice their concerns this coming Wednesday during the Schuylkill County Commissioners meeting.  An online petition was also started and as of this posting on Tuesday, within 4 days, the petition had gathered almost 1,500 signatures.

On Monday, Pennsylvania State Senator David Argall sent a letter to Schuylkill County Commissioner and Board of Commissioners President Barron Hetherington to join in the opposition of purchasing the property for the pre-release center and offered help to find a proper location for the center.

Argall's letter to Hetherington stated:

"As you know, many of us have been working together have been working with the City of Pottsville’s elected and appointed officials. the Pottsville Redevelopment Authority, the Pottsville Area Development Corporation and more than 70 community stakeholders in revitalizing the downtown business district. Our goal: to bring back the City as a hub for services, entertainment and restaurants. County use of this site would be a major setback to all of our efforts. 

Two separate $ 1 Million state grant investments are now assisting important projects identified by well-attended public stakeholder meetings to directly support zoning changes. demolition plans. property purchases. parking garage construction. New federal grants have been invested in the PADCO revolving loan hind to assist new and expanding business plans. business development and marketing/programning events. 

Another highlight is the development of an investor lead group seeking quality overnight accommodations for the region—including our state park facilities and American’s Oldest Brewery. Yuengling. This has been a long-time goal: A new hotel to serve our region and improve the local tax base. 

I ask you to reject any purchase of the Giant Food Store property for the Pre-Release Center or other County use. As you know. I stand prepared to assist you in finding another site for this purpose.

Skook News Obituaries for 07/21/2020

$
0
0


Skook News Obituaries for 07/21/2020


Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

---------------------------------------------------

Christine Rennick
, 67, St. Clair, passed away Sunday July 19, 2020, at Providence Place, Pottsville.

Born in Mount Union, September 13, 1953, she was a daughter of Robert and Patsy (Erb) Mellott of Frackville.

She retired as a Secretary from Schuylkill County Domestic Relations.

She was preceded in death by a sister Marlene Beecroft.

Surviving are her husband of 26 years, Stephen E. Rennick; brother Robert Mellott; Nieces and Nephews

Graveside Service will be held at 10:30 AM Thursday at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, 6 Caroline Ave. St. Clair, PA 17970. The Rev. Carl Shankweilier will be officiating. Visitation in accordance with CDC Guidelines will be from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Wednesday from Bruce T. Hart Funeral Home 110 N. 2nd St. Saint Clair. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Childrens’ Hospital, P.O. Box 1000 Dept. 142 Memphis, TN 38148.

Bruce T. Hart Funeral Home, St. Clair, is in charge of arrangements.

--------------------------------------

Theresa M. Swartz, age 91, of Morea, died Tuesday morning at Broad Mountain Nursing and Rehabilitation in Frackville. 
Born in Morea she was the daughter of the late Dominic and Domenica (Cozza) DeAngelo Mercuri. She was a graduate of Mahanoy Township High School and worked briefly in the local garment factories. She was a member of the former Sacred Heart Church in Mahanoy City. Theresa was a woman kind of heart and had a smile for all she met. She enjoyed going to area dirt track races with her husband and watching NASCAR on Sunday. 
Preceding her in death were her siblings James and Dominic Mercuri, Joseph and Carlo DeAngelo and sisters Rose Hasara, Margaret Ambrose, Caroline Irvin and Mary Jarrett. 
She is survived by her husband Robert T. Swartz, a son Robert A. Swartz and his wife Debbie of Frackville, a granddaughter Kimberly Swartz of Reading, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews. 
Relatives and friends are invited to her funeral on Friday morning at 11 AM from David D. Jarrett Funeral Home of Mahanoy City. The Rev. Kevin P. Gallagher will officiate. Interment will follow at 1 PM at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday morning beginning at 9 AM until time of services. Masks are required for all attending. 
Please visit www.jarrettfuneralhome.com for more information.
--------------------------------------

Brenda J. Seitz, 79, of Minersville, formerly of Tremont, died Sunday at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in Pottsville, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Irene Andulics Seiger. She was a 1959 graduate of Frailey Township High School. She was a cook, having been employed at Behm’s Restaurant and Buddy’s Log Cabin.

She was a member of Zion’s Lutheran Church, Donaldson. She enjoyed reading, and she was talented at crocheting and hand embroidery.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Seitz, in 2010; her sons, Keith Seitz, in 1981, and Robert Seitz, in 2001; a grandson, Matthew Seitz, in 2012; her twin sister, Glenda Seiger, in 1952.

Brenda is survived by two grandchildren, Ryan Seitz, Minersville, and Domenik Seitz, Germany; two great-grandsons, Cameron Seitz and Colby Seitz. She is also survived by her sister, Kathy Ann Matukewicz (spouse, Ray), Cressona; a niece, Melissa Thomas; a nephew, Brian Thomas.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend graveside services and interment at 11:00 A.M. in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, Tremont.
--------------------------------------
Dennis G. Hertzog
, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, 81 years of age, of Kutztown, Pennsylvania died on Monday, July 20, 2020, at Penn State Health, St. Joseph Medical Ctr. in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Born Wednesday, February 22, 1939 in Bowers, Berks County. the son of the late Herbert and Elda (Ginther) Hertzog. He was also predeceased by his first wife, Doris F. (Dietrich) Hertzog on June 5, 2012; brothers, Wayne, Donald, Richard and Leon Hertzog.

Surviving are; wife, Joyce E. (Welliver) Hertzog; sons, Keith D. Hertzog of Locust Dale, Kenneth A. Hertzog and his wife Cindy of Gordon and Ricky K. Hertzog and his wife Mary of New Ringgold; grand children, Nicole and her husband Rick Orth, Nina and her husband Daniel Rundle, Harmony , Eric; great grand children, Bret, Kylie, Marcus; sister, Shirley King of Hamburg; brothers Noel Hertzog and his wife Marie of Kutztown, Carl Hertzog of Fleetwood. Many nieces and nephews also survive Dennis.

Dennis had worked as a truck driver for many years, driving for Nothstein's, and Bryan Miller Trucking. Upon retirement he worked for the Kutztown School District. A member of St. John U.C.C. of Tamaqua, Dennis enjoyed watching NASCAR and spending time with his family.

Private Funeral Arrangements entrusted to the Robert S. Nester Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 2066 West Penn Pike New Ringgold, Pennsylvania 17960. (570) 386-5884

Interment Sky-View Memorial Park Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.

Memorials in his name to:
St. John's U.C.C.
150 Pine Street
Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252

online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com

--------------------------------------

John K. "Jack" Boyer, Jr. 70, of Girardville passed away early Sunday morning at his residence with his family by his side. 
Born in Pottsville, January 20, 1950, he was a son of the late John K. and Mildred Hummel Boyer, Sr. 
He was a graduate of Pottsville High School, class of 1968. Jack was as a clerk for the United States Post Office, he last worked at the Pottsville Office greeting and working with customers. He was a well respected pool shooter and enjoyed being competitive in local matches. He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting and fishing. He was a member Pepa Pool Team, Port Carbon, the South-end Field and Stream, Frackville and a member of the BPOE Elks Lodge #1533 Frackville. 
The last member of his immediate family, in addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Scott Boyer. Jack is survived by his wife Darlene Hummel Boyer, Girardville; children; Melissa Sophy and husband Dr. Matt Sophy, Orwigsburg; Brian Boyer and wife Sherry, Ringtown, Brandon Boyer and wife Samantha, Port Carbon; Melissa Riedel, Girardville and Tony Melnick and wife Nicky, Frackville; 14 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. 
Religious Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday July 25, 2020, with Deacon Larry Lonergan, Chaplain for Compassus, at the Albert L. Gricoski Funeral Home, Frackville. 
Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation following CDC guidelines of masks and social distancing Saturday morning from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Funeral Home. Interment will be at the convenience of the family.
--------------------------------------

Jeanette L. Reiner, 90 of Tremont, passed away on Sunday morning, July 19, in the Tremont Health & Rehab. Center.

Born on December 27, 1929 in Reading, she was the daughter of the late Luther and Ruth Dissinger Leisey.

Jeanette was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Pine Grove and had been employed at Guilford Mills in Pine Grove.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Edwin L. "Ted" Reiner on November 27, 2004, and two brothers, James Leisey and Robert Turner.

Surviving is a brother, Edward and wife Betty Turner of Pine Grove. .

Graveside services and interment will be held at Jacob's Lutheran Cemetery and will be held at the convenience of the family. The H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove, is in charge of arrangements. You may send condolences to the family on our website at www.hlsnyderfuneralhome.com.
--------------------------------------


--------------------------------------
These Obituaries are brought to you by


Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 07/22/2020

$
0
0

Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 07/22/2020

Wednesday - Sun Early, Thunderstorms in the Afternoon - High in the Upper 80's
Wednesday Night - Storms Early, Remaining Cloudy - Low near 70

-----------------------------------

Thursday - Clouds and Sun, Thunderstorms - High in the Mid 80's
Thursday Night - Cloudy with Storms Possible - Low in the Mid 60's

Friday - Clouds and Sun, Storm Possible - High in the Mid 80's
Friday Night - Clearing Overnight - Low in the Mid 60's

-----------------------------------

Saturday - Clouds and Sun - High in the Upper 80's

Sunday - Clouds and Sun - High near 90

Monday - Clouds and Sun, Storm Possible - High near 90

Tuesday - Clouds and Sun, Storm Possible - High near 90

--------------------------------------------

This posting is brought to you by the

Schuylkill Community Education Council



Insigner Performance Modifieds Headline Big Diamond Speedway This Friday

$
0
0
The Insigner Performance Modifieds will headline the July 24th program this Friday at Big Diamond Speedway. Originally scheduled to be an off night for the Modifieds, they have been added to the schedule due to the track having to delay the 2020 season because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the six completed points paying modified features this season, we have yet to have a repeat winner. Jared Umbenhauer, Mike Gular, Craig Von Dohren, Timmy Buckwalter, Matt Stangle and Jeff Strunk have all stood in victory lane so far in 2020. Can one of these drivers be the first to grab win number two or will we see another first-time winner this season? Craig Von Dohren is your current modified points leader with Jeff Strunk and Mike Gular lurking directly behind.

The Savage 61 Crate 602 Sportsman will return to action for the second consecutive week competing in a 20-lap main event. Cody Manmiller and Joey Vaccaro have been victorious in the previous two races and both will be on hand to try and get win number two of the season. Manmiller has grabbed the early lead in the points race with a small advantage over Vaccaro.

If you are looking for a division to follow that puts on exciting door to door racing each and every week at Big Diamond Speedway, you have to look no further than the Red White and Blue Autos Roadrunner division. This division never disappoints the Big Diamond fans as they put on quite a show each week in their 20-lap feature race. Chris Holland was the winner of last weeks barnburner of a race and almost certainly will be back to make it two in a row.

After a week’s absence, the Hellers Gas Street Stocks will return to action this Friday competing in a 20-lap main event. The street stocks have yet to have repeat winner in 2020.

*There will be a mandatory Street Stock meeting this Friday at 7:00pm

Also, on the schedule for this Friday night will the 600 Modifieds.

Gates will open at 5:30pm with warmups getting underway at 7:15pm, racing will start at 7:45pm

General admission for this Friday is $18, Seniors admission is $16. Kids 10 and under are free. Active military with valid ID are free.

One Injured in Crash on Route 61 near Schuylkill Haven

$
0
0
A woman was taken to a hospital Tuesday after a crash on Route 61 in North Manheim Township.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven, the crash occurred around 3:15pm, July 21st, 2020, on Route 61 near the intersection with Manheim Road.

Police say Corey McCabe, 45, of Pottsville was traveling south on Route 61 at a high rate of speed and struck the back of a vehicle driven by Erden Dorjmyagmar, 55, of Toronto, Canada.

Through an investigation, police say they learned from witnesses that after the crash, McCabe exited the vehicle, opened up the passenger side door and pushed Ashley Freitas, 29, of Pottsville, from the passenger seat into the driver's seat to make it look like she was driving.

McCabe's vehicle was reported to be a rental and Freitas was the only one authorized to drive it.

Freitas was injured in the crash and was taken to an area hospital  by Pottsville/Schuylkill Haven Area EMS.

McCabe and Dorjmyagmar were not injured.

State Police say McCabe will be cited for careless driving.

Ashland Police Investigate Stolen UTV

$
0
0
The Ashland Police Department is investigating the theft of a UTV in the borough.

According to Chief Ger Daley the theft occurred in the 1300 Block of Chestnut Street around 1:00pm on Tuesday, July 21st, 2020.

The suspect stole a red and white Can-Am 1000R and was caught in the act on a nearby surveillance camera.

Anyone with information on the suspect or the location of the UTV is asked to contact Ashland Police at (570) 875-2600.

Photo of UTV provided by police is not the actual UTV but similar


WEATHER ALERT: Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Wednesday

$
0
0
The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Schuylkill County and other counties for Wednesday

A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7:00PM, WEDNESDAY FOR THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES


ADAMS 
BEDFORD 
BLAIR
CAMBRIA 
CENTRE 
COLUMBIA
CUMBERLAND 
DAUPHIN 
FRANKLIN
FULTON 
HUNTINGDON 
JUNIATA
LANCASTER 
LEBANON 
MIFFLIN
MONTOUR 
NORTHUMBERLAND 
PERRY
SCHUYLKILL 
SNYDER 
SOMERSET
UNION 
YORK


---------------------------------------------


This weather alert is brought to you by


Schuylkill Technology Center



Wilburton/Aristes Area Without Power Wednesday Afternoon

$
0
0
Almost 500 people are currently without power in the Wilburton/Aristes area of southern Columbia County.

According to PPL, as of 2:30pm, 491 homes were without power due to a tripped breaker or blown fuse.

The estimate time for power to be restored is by 6:30pm.

Map from PPL Outage Map


Volunteer Organization Donates Life Saving Equipment for Pets

$
0
0
A volunteer organization donated life saving equipment for pets to local fire companies Wednesday evening.

Canine Clothing for Charity, a volunteer organization that sells pet clothing, is a volunteer organization that donates 100% of their proceeds back to the community.

Last year, the organization was able to purchase 14 pet oxygen masks to give Schuylkill County first responders.

On Wednesday evening, the organization handed out their second round of donations at the Tremont Fire Company to 25 first responder organizations.

They included:

  • The American Hose Co. #1, Ashland
  • American Hose Co. #1, Tamaqua
  • Citizens Fire Co., Branchdale
  • Good Will Hose Co. Frackville
  • Hegins Valley Fire & Rescue, Hegins
  • Humane Fire Co., Pottsville
  • Kaska Volunteer Fire Co., Kaska
  • Klingerstown Fire Co., Klingerstown
  • Lavelle Volunteer Fire Co., Lavelle
  • Mahantongo Fire Co., Pitman
  • Port Clinton Fire Co., Port Clinton
  • Rainbow Hose Co., Schuylkill Haven
  • Rescue Hook and Ladder, Saint Clair
  • Sacramento Community Fire Co., Sacramento
  • Schuylkill Hose Co., Schuylkill Haven
  • Sheppton-Oneida Volunteer Fire Co. Sheppton
  • South Ward Fire Co., Tamaqua
  • Tremont Fire Company, Tremont
  • Washington Fire Co., Ashland
  • West End Fire Co. #5, Saint Clair
  • West End Fire Co. #3, Tower City
  • West End Fire and Rescue, Mahanoy City
  • West Hanover Township Fire Company, Harrisburg
  • West Penn Fire Company, New Ringgold

Skook News Obituaries for 07/22/2020

$
0
0


Skook News Obituaries for 07/22/2020


Obituaries for Schuylkill County and the surrounding areas.

---------------------------------------------------

Gerald Gaughan, 73, lifelong Girardville resident passed away peacefully Wednesday morning at Lehigh Valley Hospital Cedar Crest, Allentown.

Born at Ashland State Hospital, he was a son of the late Anthony and Ellen Brennan Gaughan. As a professional diesel mechanic, he worked for Reading Anthracite until his retirement.

Gerald was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Jack Kehoe Division 1 , all of Girardville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Ellen Gaughan and a brother, Anthony Gaughan.

Gerald is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Cheryl Leibig Gaughan, Girardville; his three sons: Gerald Gaughan Jr., Girardville, Shawn Gaughan, Girardville, and Bryan Gaughan, Reading; a brother, Phil Gaughan, Shenandoah Heights; a sister Erin Wendling , Frackville; three grandchildren: Jillian Dyszel, Devyn and Elyson Gaughan.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, July 27th at 10 am at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Girardville with Rev. Francis Iroot. Friends are invited to his viewing on Sunday evening from 6 to 8 pm and again on Monday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 am at the Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Girardville. Interment will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Fountain Springs. Visitors are required to follow CDC guidelines of face coverings and social distancing.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made, in Gerald’s name, to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

--------------------------------------
Judith (Hosler) Jones
, 74 years of age, of Coaldale, Pennsylvania passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, at Manor Care of Pottsville.

Born Wednesday, July 10, 1946 in Coaldale the daughter of the late Edward and Annabel (Leidinger) Hosler. She was also predeceased by; husband, Carl Jones; daughter, Brenda L. Hosler on June 20, 2020; brother, Robert Leidinger and his wife Eva.

Judy is survived by her grandchildren, Elizabeth A. Hosler and her companion Mark Boyle, Carl M. Hosler; great grandchildren, McKenzie Witkowski, McKayla Hosler, and Emma Boyle.niece, Cindy Klein.

A member of Trinity U.C.C.. Judy had worked in the Textile Industry, and cleaned homes. Judy adored her grandchildren, enjoyed watching games shows and spending time with family and friends.

Pending arrangements entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East broad street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550

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

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

Constance Kerchusky, 85, of Harrisburg, passed away Tuesday, July 21st, 2020 while a guest at the Colonial Park Care Center.

Constance was born in Ringtown, on November 25, 1934, a daughter of the late Rebecca (Kreiger) and John Kerchusky. She moved to the Harrisburg area after graduating from high school, and worked for AMP Inc., which later on became TYCO, Inc., until her retirement.

She was of the Lutheran faith.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Keith Kerchusky, whopassed away in 1996.

She is survived her brother, John Kerchusky, of Hillsborough, NJ, and by nieces and nephews.

Constance will be laid to rest alongside her parents following graveside services at 11 AM on Tuesday, July 28th, 2020 at St. John's Cemetery in Ringtown. Relatives and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery for the 11 AM service, and adhere to CDC guidelines regarding social distancing and the use of facemasks.
Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
--------------------------------------
These Obituaries are brought to you by



Traffic Stop Leads to Shenandoah Man Being Charged with Assault

$
0
0
A traffic stop in East Union Township Wednesday evening led to a man being locked up in Schuylkill County Prison.

According to East Union Township Police Chief Thomas Rentschler, on Wednesday, July 22nd, 2020 around 10:20pm, while monitoring speed on Main Boulevard, a silver van was clocked speeding in a 35 mph zone.

A traffic stop was conducted on Route 924/Shenandoah Mountain Road on the driver of the van, Braulio Sanchez-Ocasio, 49, of Shenandoah.

As Chief Rentschler made contact with Sanchez-Ocasio, the driver became argumentative.

Chief Rentschler then returned to his police vehicle to check Sanchez-Ocasio's information.

While Rentschler ran the information and began to write out a citation for speeding, Sanchez-Ocasio got out of the van and began to approach the police vehicle.

Rentschler ordered Sanchez-Ocasio to return to his vehicle and replied that he would not.

Eventually Sanchez-Ocasio sat down in his vehicle but would not close the door and began to reach around inside his vehicle for something and would not comply with commands.

At this time Rentschler told Sanchez-Ocasio he was under arrest for obstruction of justice, but the man continued to resist and refuse to cooperate.

A struggle ensued in the middle of Route 924 to the point where Rentschler called for assistance from the Shenandoah Police.

After being handcuffed, Shenandoah Police arrived and they attempted to place him in the patrol vehicle.  

Sanchez-Ocasio became combative again and kicked the Shenandoah Police Officer in the face.  

Sanchez-Ocasio was eventually taken into custody and arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge Christina Hale, Frackville, on charges of aggravated assault, simple assault, resisting arrest, obstruction of justice, recklessly and endangering another person, as well as being cited for speeding.

Sanchez-Ocasio was  transported to Schuylkill County Prison after not being able to post $25,000 straight cash bail.

Pottsville Man Accidentally Shoots Himself in the Hand

$
0
0
The Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville responded to an incident on Tuesday where man accidentally shot himself.

According to troopers, on Tuesday, July 21st, 2020 around 7:30pm, a 31 year old Pottsville man was target shooting along the Burma Road in Blythe Township with his Taurus 357 Sig Sauer when the firearm malfunctioned.

As the victim attempted to clear the jam, the gun went off causing a superficial gunshot wound to his left hand.

The victim drove himself to Geisinger St. Lukes Hospital in Orwigsburg where he was treated and released.

Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 07/23/2020

$
0
0

Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 07/23/2020

Thursday - Storms Early, Remaining Cloudy - High in the Mid 80's
Thursday Night - Cloudy with Storms Possible - Low in the Mid 60's

-----------------------------------

Friday - Clouds and Sun, Storm Possible - High in the Mid 80's
Friday Night - Clearing Overnight - Low in the Mid 60's

Saturday - Clouds and Sun - High in the Upper 80's
Saturday Night - Clear - Low in the Lower 60's

-----------------------------------

Sunday - Clouds and Sun - High near 90

Monday - Clouds and Sun, Storm Possible - High near 90

Tuesday - Clouds and Sun, Storm Possible - High in the Mid 80's

Wednesday - Sunny - High near 80

--------------------------------------------

This posting is brought to you by the

Schuylkill Community Education Council


PennDOT Offers Non-binary Gender Designation Option on Driver Licenses, ID Cards

$
0
0
On Thursday, PennDOT announced that it now offers a non-binary gender designation option for its driver licenses and photo identification cards.
"Our identity documents are critical to how we navigate the world, and having an affirming and accurate ID is critical for access to employment, healthcare, housing and so much more," said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian. "Offering equitable and inclusive services for all Pennsylvanians is central to PennDOT's mission, and I'm proud that we're taking this step."

Gender designation options on Pennsylvania driver's licenses and photo ID cards are "M" (male), "F" (female) or "X" (non-binary). Customers who wish to change their gender designation should fill out Form DL-32, "Request for Gender Change on Driver's License/Identification Card," and bring it to any PennDOT Driver License Center to complete the process. This process does not require the signoff of a medical or social service provider.

"PennDOT is taking a very important step towards better serving Pennsylvanians of all gender identities. By removing barriers to make these changes, we are providing Pennsylvanians the agency to live their lives as their true selves," said Rafael Álvarez Febo, Executive Director for the Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ Affairs. "Your state issued ID is quite possibly the most important identity document you use on a daily basis, it should reflect your truth."

A gender designation change must be completed in person at a PennDOT Driver License Center. Driver license center locations can be found by clicking on "Find a Location" at www.dmv.pa.gov.

Pennsylvania joins 16 other states in offering a non-binary option for its customers.

The designation is offered free-of-charge for identification products. Applicable duplicate fees will apply to customers to obtain a duplicate license or photo ID card reflecting the change in designation.

Pottsville City Officials and Business Leaders Voice Concerns to Schuylkill County Commissioners Over Prison Pre-Release Center

$
0
0
The public was still not permitted to attend the Schuylkill County Commissioner's meeting on Wednesday due to COVID-19 restrictions, but that did not stop Pottsville City Officials and Business leaders from calling in to voice their concerns.

Late last week, word spread that Schuylkill County was interested in purchasing the former Giant Grocery Store property on Progress Avenue in Pottsville for a Prison Pre-Release Center.

The Pottsville Republican also reported that Commissioner Hetherington stated that the county was looking at the building to purchase but did not specify any exact details.

On Wednesday, the first Schuylkill County Board of Commissioners meeting was held since word got out about the project which allowed many leaders to go on record to reject the project.

Since the topic of the purchase was not on the agenda, the public was required to wait until the 2nd public portion of the meeting to speak.

First to speak was Pottsville City Mayor James Muldowney, who stated "The purchase of the Giant property by the county would devastate the revitalization of downtown Pottsville.  I'm also disappointed that I had to learn about this through social media".

Muldowney then passed to PADCO Director Savas Logothetides who stated "A prison pre-release center, while needed in the county, is counter productive and short sided use of one of the largest and visible properties in our downtown.  Nearly 2,000 people signed an online petition in agreement.  This type of use is the exact opposite of what our strategic plan spelled out.  It would have a negative impact and act as a deterrent when trying to attract business to our downtown."

Logothetides also pointed out the amount of money the city, county, and school district would lose if the county purchased the property, "Currently, as a private entity, the property where Giant formerly resided, generated over $32,000 tax dollars for the city, county, and school district.

Logothetides referenced that if the property was replaced by a tax exempt entity the city of Pottsville would lose in excess $150,000 annually or $1.5 Million dollars every 10 years.

Logothetides finished with "Pottsville deserves better".

Dave Clews, Pottsville City Councilman and President of the Pottsville Business Association spoke next, "While a pre-release center is need, the Giant market property is not the place for it. Years of positive movement that the Continued Progress Project has made for the city of Pottsville and the hard work of the many of the local officials and business have made would be severely hampered by that choice.  Please don't stop the spirit of a better and progressive Pottsville."

City Council Member Mark Atkinson also spoke on his experience on the topic, "The revitalization effort in this city has been unanimously bipartisan and has been very well supported by both parties.   This particular plan to purchase the Giant Building has united us in bipartinsanship in that overwhelmingly we reject this idea.

Schuylkill County Commissioners Hetherington and Hess did not comment on the project.
Viewing all 20006 articles
Browse latest View live


<script src="https://jsc.adskeeper.com/r/s/rssing.com.1596347.js" async> </script>