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Skook News Obituaries: October 4th, 2020

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Skook News Obituaries: October 4th, 2020

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Rose Kolos, 95, Frackville, passed away peacefully Saturday evening while under hospice care.

Born in Frackville, she was a daughter of the late Stanley and Anna Damiter Wilinsky. She worked as a seamstress for the former Charles Rabin Factory, Frackville until her retirement.

Rose was an active member of St. John the Baptist Polish National Catholic Church, Frackville where she helped with the making of pierogies and easter eggs. She was a member of the Frackville Senior Citizens and enjoyed bowling.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband John M. Kolos; her son John S. Kolos; her sisters: Eva Homa and Mildred Panikarchuck; her brothers: Michael, John, George and Walter Wilinsky.

Rose is survived by her two granddaughters, Kathleen and Ellen Kolos; a great- granddaughter Emerson Rose and several nieces/nephews and great nieces/nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday October 7th from St. John the Baptist Polish National Catholic Church, Frackville with Rev. Robert Plichta as the celebrant. Friends are invited to her viewing on Wednesday morning from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Frackville. Interment will take place in St. John’s Cemetery, Frackville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made, in Rose’s name, to St. John the Baptist Polish National Catholic Church at 414 W. Oak Street Frackville, PA 17931.

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Debbie L. Ryan
, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, of Hazle Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away on Friday, October 2, 2020, at St. Luke's Bethlehem at 62 years of age.

Born Thursday, November 7, 1957 in Lehighton, the daughter of the late Fred and Marlene D. (Gerber) Steigerwalt.

Surviving are; her husband of 27 years, Phillip M. "Flip" Ryan III; sons, James A. "Jamie" Ryan and his wife Anastasia of Brighton, MI, Phillip Michael Ryan, IV of Tamaqua, John T. "Jack" Ryan of Pottsville; her grandchildren whom she adored, Augustus "Auggie", Arianna, Teagan, Declan, Archer, Mabel, and Millie; aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A 1975 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School, Deb matriculated to Penn State University. Deb worked for Schuylkill County Public Assistance Office, and had previous stints with Children in Youth, and Office of Aging in Schuylkill County.

Deb, was a member of St. John XXIII R.C.C.. She enjoyed walks at the reservoir with Flip and their German Shepherd Gia. Deb so enjoyed following Jamie during his collegiate football day's while playing for the University of Notre Dame, and then Mike during his career playing for the University of Connecticut. Family was Deb's main priority. She will be missed by all.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550

A Memorial Mass will be held on Wednesday October 7, 2020 from St. John XXIII R.C.C. 307 Pine Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania at 10 o'clock A.M. Friends shall be received at the end of Mass.

Interment will be in St. Jerome R.C.C. Cemetery Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.

Memorials to: Tamaqua Carbon / American Cancer Society 33 West Ridge Street Lansford, Pennsylvania 18232

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

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Mary R. Trumpeter
, 94, a lifelong resident of Williamstown, passed away peacefully, Sunday, October 4, 2020.

Born in Williamstown, October 17, 1925, a daughter of the late Ignatius and Cecelia Morrison Readinger.

Mary was a graduate of the former Williamstown Catholic High School. She was a retired secretary from Ft. Indiantown Gap.

She was a faithful member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Williamstown, a member of the Sacred Heart Parish Council of Catholic Women and a social member of the Williamstown American Legion. She enjoyed doing her daily crossword puzzles in the newspaper. Mary loved being surrounded by her loving family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Louis Trumpeter, 1988; five brothers, Joseph, Bernard, Cornelius, James and Vincent Readinger.

Surviving are nieces and nephews, including Greg and Mary Lou Readinger, who were Mary's caregivers; great nieces and nephews, including, Greg and Tiffany Readinger, Mary Readinger and Matt Readinger, whom she considered grandchildren; great great nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated Wednesday, October 7th, at 11:00 am from the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Williamstown with Rev. Michael Opoki, AJ as celebrant. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be from 10-11 at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to the Williamstown American Legion, 123 W. Market Street, Williamstown, PA 17098. The Dimon Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., has been entrusted with the arrangements. To send condolences to the family visit www.dimonfuneralhome.com

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Christine L. "Chrissy" Hoilko
, 49, of Hazle Township passed away Friday, October 2nd, 2020 at her residence. .

Christine was born in Hazleton, on May 31, 1971, a daughter of Pauline (Wagner) Hoilko, of Freeland and the late John Hoilko, Jr.

She attended the Freeland High School, and worked as a waitress at the former Blue Comet Diner and then as a CNA at Mountain City Nursing and Rehab. Center in Hazleton.

Chrissy enjoyed the holiday seasons, especially Halloween. She loved to decorate and make crafts, along with cooking for and spending time enjoying her family.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her finacee, with whom she spent over 27 year with, Dean Kancir in July of this year.

She is survived by her mother Pauline, and by her son, Andrew Antonelli, of Hazle Township. Her sister Paula Hoilko-Bogansky and her brother John Hoilko, III, along with nieces and nephews also survive.

Chrissy loved and leaves behind two umbrella cockatoos, Zack and Mickey; a sengril, Malibu; a sunset conyard, Baby.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date, which will be announced.
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Warrant Issued for Frackville Man Who Assaulted Woman

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The Pennsylvania State Police have issued a warrant for a Frackville man after they say he allegedly physically assaulted a woman over the weekend.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, on Saturday, October 3rd, 2020, around 3:00am, Troopers were dispatched to Preston Avenue in Girardville for a domestic incident.

Police say the incident between Davie Wolfe, 35, of Frackville, and a woman became physical.  The woman told police that Wolfe punched her in the face 8 to 10 times resulting in a black eye and a bloody nose.

Wolfe fled the scene before police arrived.

State Police say a warrant will be issued for Wolfe's arrest.

Schuylkill County Weather Forecast: October 5th, 2020

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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast: October 5th, 2020


Monday - Rain Early, Clearing Later in the Day - High near 60
Monday Night - Clear - Low near 40

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Tuesday - Sunny - High in the Mid 60's
Tuesday Night - Clear - Low near 50

Wednesday - Sunny - High in the Lower 70's
Wednesday Night - Clear - Low in the Mid 40's

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Thursday - Sunny - High near 60

Friday - Sunny - High near 60

Saturday - Cloudy - High near 70

Sunday - Clouds and Sun - High in the Mid 60's

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This posting is brought to you by the

Schuylkill Community Education Council


Two from Pottsville Facing Drug Charges After Traffic Stop in Minersville

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Last month, the Minersville Police arrested two after they were found with controlled substances during a traffic stop.

According to Minersville Patrolman Jeffrey Bowers, on September 12th, 2020 around 1:40am, a green Volvo being operated by Nicole Ott, 31, of Pottsville was pulled over on the Seltzer Highway for a broken front running light and a tail light being out.  The vehicle's registration also came back with a temporary tag and no ownership.

As officers approached the vehicle, they could see a digital scale with white residue in plain view on the rear floor of the vehicle.

When Ott was asked for her license, she told police she didn't have one due to it being suspended.

A search of Ott led to the finding of a Percocet as well as a large sandwich bag containing a large rock of methamphetamine weighing approximately .98 grams.

The passenger, Warren Ewen, 37, of Pottsville was found with a book bag that contained approximately 1/4 pound of marijuana, three syringes, one strip of suspected LSD and ten small bags of marijuana packaged for sale weighing 1.3 grams each.

Both were taken into custody, and charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia, with Ewen additionally being charged with possession with intent to deliver.

Ewan was arraigned and locked up in Schuylkill County Prison on $15,000 straight cash bail.

Ott was arraigned and locked up in Schuylkill County Prison on $25,000 straight cash bail.  Ott later posted bail and was released.

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: Week #4 Pottsville Area Wins at Home Against Tamaqua

McAdoo Receives $160,000 to Support Route 309 Sidewalks

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On Monday, Senator Argall and Representative Jerry Knowles announced that McAdoo will receive a grant for construction of new sidewalks along Route 309 in the borough.
According to a release from Senator Argall's office, McAdoo Borough has received a $160,000 grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development to support the construction of new sidewalks along Route 309, according to Senator David G. Argall and Representative Jerry Knowles. This project is part of the ongoing restoration of Route 309 in McAdoo.

“This competitive grant will be a big boost to the borough, which has been working diligently on this effort to improve the area around Route 309 from the ground up,” said Argall. “I was very pleased to support this local effort. Grants like this will benefit local residents for years to come.”

“The addition of this sidewalk will provide a safer path for residents, said Rep. Jerry Knowles. “Our residents enjoy to walk and enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors. However, the deteriorated state of the McAdoo sidewalk makes it treacherous in places. This grant money will rectify the situation.”

“This is great news for the residents of the McAdoo Borough. McAdoo can always count on Senator Argall and Representative Knowles to deliver in a time of need. We are grateful that these gentlemen removed this financial burden from the taxpayers and added some great beautification to the Borough,” said the Mayor of McAdoo, Dane Watro.

“There are not enough words to truly express our gratitude to Senator Dave Argall and Rep. Jerry Knowles for their efforts in obtaining a grant to complete the Route 309 project including the sidewalks,” said McAdoo Borough Council President Mary Labert. “They are always there for the citizens of McAdoo in our time of need.”

This restoration effort has been in progress since 2018. The extensive project has included the installation of new traffic signals, the construction of Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps at all intersections, improvements to drainage, and the construction of sidewalks in the downtown area.

Mrs. T's to Giveaway 10,000 Boxes of Pierogies for National Pierogy Day

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Calling all pierogy lovers! The countdown to National Pierogy Day is officially on to make the 12th anniversary of the biggest pierogy celebration in America the most delicious yet, Mrs. T’s Pierogies – the largest producer of frozen pierogies in the country – is giving away up to 120,000 of these pasta pockets stuffed with creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness and other big, bold flavors.
Make sure to mark your calendars because on October 8th, pierogy fans across the country can visit http://www.MrsTsPierogies.com/National-Pierogy-Day to claim a coupon for one free box of Mrs. T’s Pierogies*, while supplies last. 

While Mrs. T’s gets ready to celebrate the big day, pierogy lovers are invited to keep a close eye on the official countdown clock that is counting down to the holiday and explore Mrs. T’s flavors and recipes to get excited with some pierogy inspiration – whether you’re in the mood to turn your free box into your next meal, snack, app or side.

“It’s hard to believe that this year marks the 12th anniversary since National Pierogy Day was declared an official holiday,” said Tom Twardzik, President, Mrs. T’s Pierogies. “It’s amazing to see how the celebration has grown over the past twelve years, and, this year, we wanted to do something extra special for pierogy lovers as well as those that haven’t ever had the chance to taste these delicious pasta pockets. Whether you’re a new or lifelong fan, we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate the occasion than with free pierogies!”

National Pierogy Day, which became official in 2008, recognizes the day in 1952 that founder Ted Twardzik Sr., the son of the Mrs. T, made his very first pierogy sale to his local grocery store in Shenandoah, PA. Since that first pierogy sale sixty eight years ago, Mrs. T’s has become the #1 selling brand of frozen pierogies in the country.

National Pierogy Day is celebrated all day long at the Mrs. T’s production facility in Shenandoah, Pa. Associates will start their day with an annual flag raising to kick off a day of fun, food and celebration. They will also be spreading the pierogy love to the local Shenandoah community by hoisting the National Pierogy Day flag at borough hall.

In the past year, Mrs. T’s made more than 554,000,000 pierogies. That’s enough to:
· Cover over 836 football fields – including end zones!
· Cross the United States more than 8 times!
· Circle the globe around the equator!

Share how you’re celebrating National Pierogy Day this year by using #NationalPierogyDay and tagging @mrstspierogies on social. For more information about Mrs. T’s, their free pierogy offer and additional recipes, visit www.mrstspierogies.com, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter & Pinterest.

*Up to 10,000 consumers will receive a coupon to enjoy a free box of Mrs. T’s Pierogies. Offer begins at 12:00 a.m. EDT on October 8, 2020 and ends no later than 11:59:59 p.m. EDT on October 8, 2020. One coupon per household.

Click below for terms and conditions.

Skook News Obituaries: October 5th, 2020

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Skook News Obituaries: October 5th, 2020

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Robert J. Edmondson, Jr. of Frackville, passed away on Saturday, October 3, 2020 at the home of his father in Pine Grove.

Born on September 17, 1962 in Girardville, he was a son of Robert Edmondson Sr. of Pine Grove and the late Margaret Koslosky Edmondson.

He worked at Fist Quality in Hazelton.

Preceding him in death was a brother, Gerald W. Edmondson.

Surviving, in addition to his father, is a brother Richard Edmondson of Frackville.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family with interment in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Fountain Springs.

The H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove is in charge of arrangements and you may send condolences online at www.hlsnyderfuneralhome.com

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Ronald C. Davenport
, 75, of St. Clair, died Sunday October 4, 2020, at LVHN – Muhlenberg, Bethelhem.

Born in St. Clair, March 27, 1945, He was a son of the late George and Margaret (Gregory) Davenport.

He was a graduate of Penn State University.

Ron retired as a teacher from Child Development Inc., Duncott.

He was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Saint Clair, and St. David Society.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Shirley Davenport; three brothers, Harold and Gregory Davenport and Thomas Gregory.

Surviving are Nieces and Nephews Craig Davenport of St. Clair; Scott Davenport and his wife Alicia , Dickson City; Tracie Clews and her husband Scott of St. Clair; Great nieces Tristen and Emilee Clews.

Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM Friday from Bethlehem Baptist Church, 1 N. Front St. St. Clair, PA 17970. Rev. Joseph McDemus will be officiating. Friends may call from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Friday at the Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Memorial Fund , PO Box 172, St. Clair, PA 17970. Burial will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery, St. Clair.

Bruce T. Hart Funeral Home, St. Clair, is in charge of arrangements. Condolences can be sent to http://www.brucethartfuneralhome.com

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Albert “ Albie “ Petusky Jr., 84, former Girardville resident , passed away peacefully Sunday at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Schuylkill East Norwegian Street, Pottsville.

He was born in the former Ashland Hospital. Albie had been employed at the former Alcoa Aluminum Plant, Cressona until his retirement and then worked as a maintenance man for McDonalds Lunch and the Jiffy Mart in Girardville.

He was a US Army veteran of the Korean War.

He is survived by his brother Leonard Petusky, Girardville and by several nieces and nephews.

Private services and interment will be held at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery Annville.

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Marie Theresa Hoak
, 84, of Pottsville, Pa., passed away peacefully on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Allentown. 

Born in Forestville, Pa., on August 28, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Stanley and Anna (Pishko) Kowalchick. Marie was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church in Pottsville. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Gary Hoak, and a brother, William "Butch" Kowalchick. Known as the “glue that held everyone together,” family was everything to Marie. And you just had to look in — and on — her refrigerator to see that. 

Decades of school photos and newspaper clippings of her grandchildren’s academic, community, workplace and sports accomplishments dotted the kitchen walls and fridge. “Grammy” had a knack for making everyone feel like the most important person in the world. A fierce matriarch, there never seemed to be a shortage of love, no matter the situation. Marie was a wonderful cook and master candy maker, and there was never a shortage of home-cooked meals and treats, either. Her famous halupkies, peanut butter rolls and coconut eggs made every visit all the sweeter. Her love extended far beyond the family, too. Raising her own children in the Fairmount and Seneca Street neighborhoods of Pottsville, many now-grown neighborhood kids call Marie their “second mother,” even to this day. Marie spent many years working the polls, too, doing her part to create a better future for the next generations. 

Whether it was the end of a loud Christmas filled with charades and storytelling, the end of a phone conversation, or even a Facebook post, Grammy made sure everyone knew her love as they hung up the phone, walked out of her home for the night or logged off online. 

Marie lives on through the incredible family she and her husband of 64 years, Donald Thomas Hoak, created. She is survived by four sons: Greg Hoak and his wife, Lisa, Gerald Hoak, Glenn Hoak and his wife, Karen, Gil Hoak and his wife, Patricia; a daughter Gina McGinley; a daughter-in-law Sharon Hoak; 10 grandchildren: Greg Jr. (Leah), Luke (Ashley), Kelly (Charlie), Allison (Nick), Jason (Maggie), Madison (Emma), Neena, Carly, Jillian, and Megan; six great-grandchildren: Ava, Aubrey, Addison, Cole, Finley, and Della; a sister: Shirley Hasenauer; and nieces and nephews. 

A religious service will be held at the Robert A. Evans Jr. Funeral Home in Port Carbon at 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 8, with Msgr. Edward O’Connor officitiating. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Thursday morning from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. 

Interment will be held in Our Lady of Calvary Cemetery, Pottsville. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Marie’s memory may be made to Hillside SPCA: 51 SPCA Rd, Pottsville, PA 17901. Please send condolences to www.robertaevansjrfh.com

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Sean A Britton
, 39, of Mount Carmel, PA, passed away on October 1, 2020.

Sean was born in Ashland, PA on September 30, 1981, son of Anthony Britton and Denise Crabb. He is survived by his spouse Nina Britton, sister Dana (and Anthony) Caforio and Gint and Finnster. He is also survived by paternal grandparents William and Carol Britton of Aristes, PA, maternal grandparents, Robert and Carol Beaver of Jamestown TN and Elearie Beaver of Aristes, PA as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and godchildren.

Sean graduated from North Schuylkill Jr./Sr. high school in 2000. He was employed by Weber Steel Service of Kutztown, PA as a foreman and a certified welder for approximately 15 years.

Sean was an avid hunter and fisherman who loved anything to do with the outdoors whether it be hiking, biking or riding his dirt bike up any mountainside he could find. He was a craft beer enthusiast and even tried his hand at home brewing. He was the life of every party and could put a smile on any persons face no matter the time or situation. He would give the shirt off his back for those he loved and was always willing to help out when needed. He could usually be found at a brewery on weekends or at home with the music playing so loud you could not have a conversation with those around you. He liked to bang on the drums until 3AM and was always the certified DJ at any social event.

To those who knew him, he was so much more than just a friend. He was a brother. He was a confidant, a peacemaker and the one you could always turn to for advice and support. He will not only be missed but will be treasured and every memory will be held closely. Everyone he touched will feel like a piece of them will forever be missing. To put it mildly, everyone loved Sean.

Services will be held at the convenience of the Family.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations will be accepted, and proceeds donated to the Schuylkill County Suicide Prevention organization in Sean’s memory. Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home, Ashland is in charge of arrangements.

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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast: October 6th, 2020

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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast: October 6th, 2020


Tuesday - Clouds and Sun - High in the Mid 60's
Tuesday Night - Some Clouds - Low near 50

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Wednesday - Sunny - High near 70
Wednesday Night - Clear - Low in the Mid 40's

Thursday - Sunny - High near 60
Thursday Night - Clear - Low near 40

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Friday - Sunny - High in the Lower 60's

Saturday - Clouds and Sun, Showers Late - High near 70

Sunday - Clouds and Sun, Shower Possible - High in the Mid 60's

Monday - Cloudy with Rain - High in the Lower 60's

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This posting is brought to you by the

Schuylkill Community Education Council


Wolf Administration and Health Department Change Order on Event Gathering Limitations

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On Tuesday morning, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf and Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine announced changes to the order on event limitations in Pennsylvania that have been in effect since early September.

In the original order, outdoors events were capped at 250 individuals and indoor were capped at 25.  This led to a back and forth between State Legislators and State Courts on whether the order was constitutional.

This kept most parents and fans from attending high school sports and cancelled many events throughout the summer.

On Tuesday, State officials announced new limitations that allowed more people to attend and is based on the venue's maximum capacity. The new order goes in effect on Friday, October 9th, 2020 at 12:01am.

Under the new order:

For Outdoors Events

 - Up to 2,000 attendees - 25%  Maximum Occupancy
 - Up to 10,000 attendees - $20% Maximum Occupancy
 - Over 10,000 attendees - 15% Maximum Occupancy up to 7,500 People

For Indoor Events

 - Up to 2,000 attendees - 20% Maximum Occupancy
 - Up to 10,000 attendees - 15% Maximum Occupancy
 - Up to 10,000 attendees - 10% of Maximum Occupancy up to 3,750 people

Venues still must require attendees to comply with six foot social distancing requirements and must require face masks or coverings.

The order does change the order on restaurants.


Shenandoah Man with Warrant Flees State Troopers During DUI Traffic Stop

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Police LightsA Shenandoah man is facing charges after he fled police during a traffic stop.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, on September 21st, 2020, around 12:30am, troopers conducted a traffic stop on Coal Street near the intersection with Locust Street in Shenandoah.

Police say during the stop, the driver, Jonathan Zamudio, 36, of Shenandoah displayed signs of impairment.

While police were identifying him, Zamudio fled on foot on Coal Street, then Locust Street, and Penn Street before he was taken into custody.

The further check of Zamudio led to the finding that he had an arrest warrant from the Columbia County Sheriff's Office.

Zamudio was taken into custody and locked up in Schuylkill County Prison to await being taken to Columbia County on the warrant.

State Police filed additional charges of DUI, Fleeing and Eluding Police, and other violations through Magisterial District Judge Kilker's office.

Fire Crews Responding Working House Fire in Pottsville

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As of 1:20pm, Tuesday, fire crews are responding to a working house fire in the City of Pottsville.

Just after 1:15pm, fire crews were dispatched to the 700 Block of West Market Street in Pottsville for a working house fire.

The first crews on scene reported a "well involved" house fire with possible entrapment.

More details when they are available.


Block of House Fire

Frackville Man to Receive Papal Honors

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A man from Frackville will receive Papal Honors later this month.
According to a press release from the Allentown Diocese, Michael J. O’Connor, a parishioner of St. Joseph the Worker Church in Frackville and the Supreme Secretary of the Knights of Columbus has been named a Knight of the Order of St. Sylvester by Pope Francis.

The Order of St. Sylvester, one of five pontifical knightly orders, was founded by Pope Gregory XVI in 1841. Those named to the order are actively involved in the everyday activities of the Church. Membership signifies recognition from the Holy Father himself for exemplary service rendered to the Church.

O’Connor is an attorney who has been very active in the Church in the Diocese of Allentown. He has been a member of the Independent Review Board, the Diocesan Pastoral Council, Catholic Charities Board of Directors, the Diocesan School Board and President of the St. Thomas More Society in Schuylkill County.

O’Connor has been a member of the Knights of Columbus since 1986 and has held local and national leadership positions in the Knights. He has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Knights since 2007 and is currently the Knights’ Supreme Secretary.

O’Connor also assisted with the 2015 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia where over one million Catholics and members of the Christian community gathered with His Holiness Pope Francis to strengthen the bonds of family life.

Diocese of Allentown Bishop Alfred Schlert said, “The honor bestowed on Mr. O’Connor is well deserved. He has generously used his numerous gifts and talents to serve the Universal Church and the Church in the Diocese of Allentown.” The Bishop also noted, “In bestowing this honor on Mr. O’Connor, Pope Francis has also honored the Diocese and the faithful who live and worship here.”

The honor will be conferred on Mr. O’Connor at a ceremony at the Cathedral of Saint Catharine of Siena in Allentown on Sunday, October 18 at 3 PM.

Eight Displaced, One Injured After West Market Street Fire in Pottsville

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A fire in Pottsville Tuesday afternoon left 8 displaced and a woman injured.

Just after 1:15pm, Tuesday, emergency personnel were dispatched to the 700 Block of West Market Street in Pottsville for a working house fire.

As emergency personnel arrived, they reported a column of smoke coming from the area and as they arrived as scene, described the home at 711 West Market as "well involved".

All of Pottsville fire departments and the Schuylkill Haven RIT team were first due to the scene.

The call came in as "possible entrapment" after a woman was found on the front porch of the home and it was unclear if anyone else was inside.

The female victim found with severe burns on the front porch of the home reportedly jumped from a second story according to officials.

The victim was transported to Lehigh Valley Hospital Schuylkill where she was then flown to Lehigh Valley Cedar Crest in Allentown for her injuries.

The fire quickly spread the 713 West Market Street and crews battled the fire for over an hour before bringing it under control and beginning overhaul.

In all, 8 people were displaced by the fire, with 7 of the those being helped by the American Red Cross.

As of 5:00pm, West Market Street was still closed while crews cleaned up. 

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Photos by Jocelyn Blum / Danie Mae Photography








Skook News Obituaries: October 6th, 2020

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Skook News Obituaries: October 6th, 2020

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Dr. Carl Richard Bemiller, CAPT, US Navy (Ret) passed away Saturday at his residence in Pottsville. He was 88 years old.

Born February 22, 1932 in Silver Run, MD, he was the son of Carl Timothy and Sarah (Yealy) Bemiller. He graduated from Eichelberger High School in Hanover, and then from Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He received his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from Thomas Jefferson Medical School in Philadelphia, and went on to do specialty training in Internal Medicine and Cardiology.

In his capacity as a physician, Dr. Bemiller proudly served for 20 years in the United States Navy, including a tour aboard the USS Vulcan during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He finished his military career as Commanding Officer of the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, VA.

Following retirement from the Navy, Dr. Bemiller spent his second 20 year career in Pottsville, as a partner in the medical group Marshall Rismiller & Associates.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia (Houck) Bemiller, and his son Carl Richard Bemiller II.

He is survived by his sons Timothy A. Bemiller and his wife Lynn, of San Diego, CA, and Tracy S. Bemiller and his wife Casey of Oakland, MD and six grandchildren: Erica, Brent, Todd, Tristen, Eric, and Christopher Bemiller.

He is also survived by his sister Carollee Cunningham of Peachtree City, GA and brother Albert “Jack” Bemiller of Buffalo, NY.

Private interment will be held on the grounds of Rest Haven Cemetery in Hanover. Schlitzer Allen Pugh 515 West Market Street has been entrusted with arrangements.

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

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Michael Sedar, Jr.
, beloved father and brother, 89 of 222 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, at St. Luke's Hospice Bethlehem at 89 years of age.

Born Friday, April 3, 1931 in Frackville the son of the late Michael Sedar, Sr., and Eva (Macleba) Sedar. Mike was also predeceased by; his wife of 43 years, Lillian P. (Miller) Sedar on Dec. 31, 2004; son-in-laws, John Houser, Marlin Troxell; sisters, Eva Kolbinko, Mary Sedar, Helen Palmer, Catherine Sedar, Ann Sedar; brothers, Wassel, Adam, and John Sedar.

Surviving are; daughters, Carol M. Troxell and Barbara Houser both of New Ringgold; son, Michael A. Sedar and his wife Lori of Leesport; brother, Paul Sedar of Frackville; nieces and nephews.

Mike retired from J. E. Morgan Knitting of Hometown having worked as a cutter. He was a devoted member of Ben Salem Church of Lehighton having served as Deacon, and member of the Citizens Fire Co. of Tamaqua. An ardent baseball fan, Mike favored the Yankees and Phillies. Spending time with family, and doing Lottery Scratch Offs where his greatest joys.

Mike served honorably as a member of the Army National Guard.

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

Private Services will be held from Ben Salem U.C.C. 1965 Church Hill Road Lehighton, Pennsylvania 18235 on Friday October 9, 2020 with interment in the parish cemetery.

Memorials in Mikes name to:
Ben Salem U.C.C. "Youth Group"
P.O. Box 128 Andreas, Pennsylvania 18211

online condolences may be sent in care of www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com

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Shenandoah Valley School District Receives USDA Grant for New Equipment

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On Tuesday, the United States Department of Agriculture announced that the Shenandoah Valley School District has been awarded a grant.

The school district was 1 of 5 projects that received investments to help serve rural Pennsylvanians through the Community Facilities Programs. The investment funding may be used to assist in the development of essential community facilities in rural communities with extreme unemployment and serve economic depression. For example:

Shenandoah Valley was awarded $39,300 in loan and $15,700 in grant in the Community Facilities Loan and Grant program along with $38,300 in Economic Impact Initiative Grants funding to benefit 5,071 rural Pennsylvania. 

This investment will be used by the Shenandoah Valley School District for the purchase and/or installation of two Ford vans, HVAC-related equipment, audio-related equipment, and maintenance-related equipment. The vans will provide transportation for special education and homeless students. The 26-year-old roof top air conditioning unit will be replaced since it is beyond repair. 

The district will also be replacing existing windsock ducting for the high school gymnasium which was deemed unsafe. The gymnasium sound system will also be replaced since it has exceeded its useful life of 25 years. 

Additionally, in order to save on rental fees, it will be purchasing equipment such as a jack hammer, a cement mixer, and a cut off saw for the maintenance of its buildings.

Schuylkill County Weather Forecast: October 7th, 2020

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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast: October 7th, 2020


Wednesday - Sunny, Turning Cloudy - High near 70
Wednesday Night - Clear - Low in the Mid 40's

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Thursday - Sunny - High near 60
Thursday Night - Clear - Low in the Upper 30's

Friday - Sunny - High in the Lower 60's
Friday Night - Cloudy - Low in the Upper 40's

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Saturday - Cloudy with Some Sun, Showers Late - High near 70

Sunday - Showers - High in the Mid 60's

Monday - Cloudy with Rain - High in the Lower 60's

Tuesday - Cloudy with Showers - High in the Mid 60's

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This posting is brought to you by the

Schuylkill Community Education Council


Argall Introduced Bill Requiring Property Purchase Approval Passes State Senate

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On Tuesday, a bill introduced by State Senator David Argall requiring municipal and school board approval for County purchases on property was passed by the Pennsylvania Senate.


The Senate approved a bill passed by a bipartisan vote of 45-5 to address the question of Pottsville’s vacant Giant supermarket, according to Senator David G. Argall, the prime sponsor of the bill.  


According to a press release from Argall's office, "This comes after two Schuylkill County Commissioners disregarded community input and voted to authorize the county to begin the process of purchasing the property."

 

“I am pleased that the Senate chose to act quickly on this important legislation,” said Argall.  “People in Pottsville have spoken very clearly on this issue on a bipartisan basis: This property should be available for use as a hotel, restaurant, or shops, not as a warehouse for old county records or a pre-release center for criminal offenders.  It is 100% wrong to jeopardize Pottsville’s ongoing revitalization efforts with this unilateral action by two of our county commissioners.  This is not just a bad decision for Pottsville, it’s an extraordinarily bad decision for the entire county because if Pottsville’s tax base is decreased, that will cause the county to raise taxes on all of us.”

 

Senate Bill 1296 would require city government and school board approval for the purchase of property by a county government. This bill was crafted after two Schuylkill County Commissioners announced plans to buy the vacant Giant supermarket property in downtown Pottsville with the intent of turning it into a corrections facility or a warehouse. This move is strongly opposed by bipartisan city and school district officials and business, medical, and civic leaders from the local community.  The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for its consideration.

Mahanoy City Elks Donates to Local Organizations

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The Elks in Mahanoy City recently donated to other local organizations.

The Mahanoy City Elks Lodge No. 695 recently donated $3,500 to the Schuylkill Community Action Food Network Program through a grant received from the Elks National Foundation (ENF). 

Community Action will distribute the funds to food pantries within the Elks district located in Mahanoy City, Shenandoah and Ringtown.

 

The Mahanoy City Elks was allocated a total of $10,500 for the 2020-2021 lodge year in ENF grants through the Community Investments Program to help build stronger communities.  Other programs receiving funds this year:  Opportunity House, Pottsville, for supportive services for veterans and families, the American Legion Post 74, Mahanoy City, for Veterans Dinners and the Schuylkill United Way for COVID-19 assistance.


Pictured: (L to R) Linda Fetter, Exalted Ruler and ENF Chairperson;  Jason Schally, Food Network Coordinator-Property Manager, Schuylkill Community Action; Jean Haberl, Shenandoah Area Food Pantry Coordinator; Susie and Dick Drukker, Ringtown Area Pantry Coordinators. (not pictured: Sylvia Burke, St. Vincent de Paul Society Food Pantry Coordinator, Mahanoy City)

 

Fire Crews Responding to Working Structure Fire in Pottsville on Wednesday

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Fire crews are responding to a working structure fire in Pottsville.

Around 5:15pm, Wednesday, fire crews were dispatched to 409 Main Street in Pottsville for a working structure fire on the 3rd floor of the home.

Fire crews at the scene reported that they found a fire in the 2nd floor ceiling spreading to the third floor..

Pottsville units are responding along with Schuylkill Haven RIT.

As of 5:25pm, radio reports state that the bulk of the fire was already knocked down.

UPDATE (5:35pm) - Animal rescue has been called to the scene.

More information as it comes available.

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