State Police Investigate Burglary in Girardville

January 6, 2021, 7:51 pm

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The Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville are investigating a reported burglary that occurred this past weekend.

According to Troopers, on Sunday, January 3rd, 2020 around 11:00, they received a report of burglary on East Ogden Street in Girardville.

The victim reported that a 55 inch flat screen LG television and a black and silver Smith and Wesson 9mm pistol were stolen from a home.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Frackville Barracks at (570) 874-5300.

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Two More Instances of Forged Checks Reported in the Ringtown Area

January 6, 2021, 8:11 pm

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The Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville are investigating two more instances where checks were altered in the Ringtown area.

Troopers say that they have received a report from a man and woman from Ringtown that mailed two checks at the Ringtown Post Office.  Those two checks were intercepted at some point and changed to a $4,000 amount and $379.32 amount, modified to a different payee, and fraudulently cashed.

There were two previous incidents where similar incidents happened in the Ringtown area.

On December 21st, 2020, troopers received a report of forgery/fraud at a home on Aristes Road in Union Township near Ringtown.

Police say that the victim told police that a check was mailed for a payment, but was then forged to an unauthorized person with an increased dollar amount, which were then taken from the account.

The third incident, which occurred between November 23rd, 2020 and December 3rd, 2020, involved a woman who resides on Zion Grove Road in Union Township, near Ringtown.  The woman wrote a PSECU check for $7.99 as a payment for a Kohl's Department Store card and put it in her mailbox to be picked up by the mailman.

On December 4th, 2020 the woman checked her bank statement and found that the checked payed out $3,800.

An investigation found that the check had been altered paying out the $3,800 to an individual unknown to the victim.

Anyone with information on any of these incidents should contact the Frackville Barracks at (570) 874-5300.

Schuylkill County Man Reportedly Dies at US Capitol on Wednesday

January 7, 2021, 9:23 am

≫ Next: MISSING: Woman Reported Missing in Ashland

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A Ringtown man is reportedly among those that died at the United State Capitol on Washington DC on Wednesday.

On Thursday morning, a press conference was held by Washington D.C.'s mayors office to recap Wednesday's demonstration at the Capitol Building in Washington D.C. 

Over the several hour incident,  4 people were reported to have died, 1 by gunfire, and 3 for medical emergencies.

DC Chief of Police Robert J. Contee identified the three medical emergency individuals which included a man he identified as Ben Phillips, 50, of Ringtown.

Contee did not elaborate any other details on the incident.  

Stay tuned for more information on this as it becomes available.

MISSING: Woman Reported Missing in Ashland

January 7, 2021, 11:32 am

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The Ashland Police Department is asking for help in locating a woman that went missing earlier this week.

According to Police Chief Ger Daley, Caroline Hallinan, 35, was last seen on Tuesday, January 5th, 2021 around 12:30pm leaving her home on Spruce Street in Ashland.

Chief Daley reports that Hallinan is possibly suicidal.  Hallinan is described ast 5'3" tall, 300lbs, black hair, and blue eyes. 

Anyone with information on her disappearance is asked to contact the Ashland Police through Schuylkill County Communications at (570) 462-1991.

Two Injured, One Flown After Crash near Ashland Thursday Morning

January 7, 2021, 12:07 pm

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Two people were injured in a crash near Ashland on Thursday morning.
Just after 8:30am, Thursday, emergency personnel in Butler Township were dispatched to the area Gordon Road and Country Club Road for a motor vehicle accident with entrapment.

Butler Township Police and Ashland Police responded and found a white truck down an embankment approximately 50 feet.

The driver and passenger were able to self extricate themselves before fire crews arrived.

The driver was flown to an area hospital for his injuries.  The passenger was treated at the scene and transported to the hospital via ambulance.

Responding to the scene were the Lavelle Fire Company, Washington Rescue from Ashland, and Englewood Fire Company.  A&F Automotive assisted with retrieving the vehicle.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Schuylkill County School District Business Managers Speak Out on Charter School Funding

January 7, 2021, 2:21 pm

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Local school district business managers including those in Schuylkill County are speaking out on charter schools.
Letter to the editor:

Recently the United States Department of Education awarded a five-year $30 million grant to Pennsylvania Brick and Mortar Charter Schools to increase their academic success. All the while, many Pennsylvania Public Schools are cutting programs in order to continue to pay for charter school costs, some even becoming financially distressed due to this burden.

Our local state legislators have failed by not providing a fair funding for charter schools while draining public schools and increasing the burden of further expenditures on the local taxpayers. Contrary to the general public belief, charter schools are not free. Schuylkill County Public Schools pay tuition per student ranging from $10,000 to almost $30,000 per student.

During the 2018-2019 school year, Schuylkill County Public Schools paid nearly $11 million to charter schools that contributed to over $2 billion paid to charter schools during that year. While it is true some state money is allocated per student, state funding only provides for approximately half of the county schools’ budgets, with the remaining paid by their local taxpayers.

While most Schuylkill County Public Schools have struggled financially, in part to sky rocketing charter school costs, Commonwealth Charter Academy reported a $1,241,314 profit in 2018-2019.Additionally, their accumulated profits as of June 30, 2018 were nearly $38 million. To add insult to injury, during that year they spent nearly $8 million of local tax payer money on advertising, not education.

The financial rewards of these charter schools have increased dramatically during this pandemic with the average cyber charter school enrollment increasing by over 60%. Despite this fact, Commonwealth Charter Academy is scheduled to receive over $12.8 million in additional federal stimulus money allocated by our state legislators.

Public schools are the pillars of their local communities and are going bankrupt while politically driven charter schools have become very profitable big business. It is hard to fathom that as our local public schools begin looking at their budget cuts for next year, that our local state legislatures believe what they are doing is in the best interest of their constituents. The funding of these charter schools are not equitable and needs to be fixed this year.

Sincerely,

Robert L Amos
Business Manager, North Schuylkill

Jennifer C Laudeman
Business Manager, Minersville

Brian Manning
Business Manager, Shikellamy

Jodie Dermo
Business Manager, Pine Grove

Brittany Doyle
Business Manager, Schuylkill IU 29

Anthony Demalis
Business Manager Shenandoah Valley

Three Facing Charges After Drug Raid in Minersville

January 7, 2021, 3:17 pm

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Three men are facing drug charges after police raided a home in Minersville on Tuesday night.

According to Patrolman Jeffrey Bowers, on Tuesday, January 5th, 2021, around 8:30pm, the Minersville Police Department with help from other law enforcement executed a search warrant at 322 Laurel Street, Minersville as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation.

During the search of the home, methamphetamine was found in the living room, bedroom, and a jacket.

As a result of the drugs being found Brandon Bill, 22, Mitch Ritchie, 46, and Robert Mehlman Jr., 32, all of Minersville were charged.

On Thursday, January 7th, 2021 Brill was charged with possession of a controlled substance, Ritchie was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia, and Mehlman was charged with the previous charges but also possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.

Police believe Mehlman is involved in trafficking methamphetamine from the home in Minersville and have issued a warrant for his arrest.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call Minersville Police at (570) 544-6212.

Mehlman

Brill

Ritchie

Hale Announces Election Campaign for Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas

January 7, 2021, 5:40 pm

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On Wednesday, Judge Christina E. Hale announced her candidacy for the 2021 Judicial Election to the Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas. She has held that position since October 12, after being appointed on a bi-partisan basis by the Governor and confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate on September 22, 2020.
“I am pleased to announce my intention to seek election in 2021,” said Judge Hale, who immediately assumed her Common Pleas judicial duties after being sworn in on October 12, 2020. As a member of the Common Pleas bench, she presides over various cases including criminal trials, custody trials, civil matters, juvenile court, abuse court, summary appeals, and children and youth matters.

Judge Hale believes she has the judicial temperament, patience and analytical skills necessary to continue serving as a Common Pleas Judge. She acknowledged that she treats everyone who appears before her with respect and dignity. Hale proclaimed “I am fair, impartial and ensure due process to everyone. I take my job seriously and adhere to the oath I took to support, obey, and defend the Constitution and to discharge the duties of my office with fidelity. I do that every day. It is a tremendous honor to serve the public in a fair and ethical manner.”

Judge Hale is well respected by her peers as well. In April of 2020, she received the highest vote total in the Schuylkill County Bar Association attorney balloting for judicial preference to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge John E. Domalakes.

Judge Hale will crossfile on both the Republican and Democrat tickets for the 2021 Pennsylvania Primary in the spring. At the time of her judicial appointment she said “I am humbled and deeply honored by the faith placed in me by the Governor and the State Senate to perform this vital role of justice in our community. It was a tremendous honor to be considered and appointed.”

Senator David Argall, who nominated Hale for appointment, shared his support. “It was a pleasure to vote to confirm Judge Hale on the floor of the Senate today. She has a wealth of experience in both civil and criminal cases and is a pillar of the Schuylkill County community. I could not think of a better candidate to sit on the Court of Common Pleas,” said Argall.

Judge Hale was first elected as magisterial district judge in 2011 for district court 21-2-01 in Frackville. During her tenure, she handled over 34,000 cases. She won the 2011 election primary as the leading vote getter on both the Republican and Democrat ballots after defeating seven other opponents. After finishing her first term as magisterial district judge, Hale was officially endorsed by both the Republican and Democrat parties of Schuylkill County for re-election in

2017. She was re-elected unopposed. Hale views the overwhelming bipartisan support she received as a testament to the job she had done in her court.

In addition to her professional experience, Hale is passionate about community involvement. Aside from serving as a volunteer youth soccer and basketball coach, Judge Hale has been a regular speaker at nearly every school district in Schuylkill County. “I truly enjoy and value judicial outreach,” she said. As a frequently requested guest speaker, she has lectured students on issues ranging from bullying to substance abuse, social media misuse, distracted driving, Law Day, and the Constitution. She has also presented to the boy scouts, girl scouts, drug survivor groups and local civic organizations. In May 2020, the Frackville Elks honored Judge Hale as the Elks Citizen of the Year due to her extensive community involvement. Her alma mater, North Schuylkill High School, also recognized Hale’s contributions by inducting her into the 2020 North Schuylkill Alumni Wall of Fame for outstanding academic and professional achievement.

Raised in Frackville, Hale is a life-long resident of Schuylkill County. Following graduation from North Schuylkill High School, Penn State University and the Dickinson School of Law, she returned to Schuylkill County in 2001 where she practiced law for 12 years. During her tenure as an attorney, Hale was named a five time “Pennsylvania Superlawyer Rising Star” as published in Law and Politics and Philadelphia Magazine.

Hale stated “If given the opportunity, I will continue to work hard and be a fair judge dedicated to justice.”

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Skook News Obituaries: January 7th, 2021

January 7, 2021, 8:07 pm

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Skook News Obituaries: January 7th, 2021

Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.

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Phyllis Elaine Christ Hesser loved her family, her country, Pine Grove, Pa., and St. John’s Lutheran Church. She died on Jan. 4, 2021 in Pennsylvania from Covid-related pneumonia. She was born on June 28, 1928 to Bruce L. Christ, a teacher and business owner, and Ruth Welsh Christ, a longtime teacher in the Pine Grove Area School District.

Phyllis was an honor student, and was in the Junior American Legion Auxiliary and the Girl Scouts. The Christs were active in St. John’s, and their only daughter was, too, attending Sunday School and joining Luther League as a youngster.

A hard worker who could rarely be dissuaded once she set her mind on something, one of Phyllis’ first jobs was scooping ice cream in a restaurant. She was 13, earned $1 a shift for working from 6 p.m. to midnight, and saved all her money to buy a pair of roller skates. She loved gliding around the floor at the roller rink or across the ice on the Union Canal. She also enjoyed swimming, and did a mean sidestroke.

Phyllis wanted to study science - not easy for a woman back then. After graduating from high school in 1946, she enrolled at the local Penn State campus, then transferred to Gettysburg College, where her father had earned his bachelor’s and master’s in chemistry.
In 1951, Phyllis was the only woman in her class to earn a bachelor’s in chemistry. She minored in education, math, physics, English and German, although she wasn’t a fan of languages and her spelling ability (or lack thereof) was a constant source of amusement to her crossword-puzzle-loving family.

Phyllis took a job in the Navy’s shipyard laboratories in Philadelphia, where, among other things, she worked on metallurgy for ships’ anchors. In 1953, she returned to Pine Grove and put her culinary skills to work as proprietor of the popular Cricket restaurant on Tulpehocken Street until 1957, when she sold it. She was a great cook; her pie crusts, pepper cabbage and potato stuffing were all excellent.

Back at St. John’s, she became a Luther League advisor and Sunday School teacher, and was a member, with her mother, of the Mahantango chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

In 1959, Phyllis got her first teaching job at Blue Mountain and married Clyde H. Hesser. They were together until he died Dec. 5, 2009, a week before their golden wedding anniversary. When her daughters came along, she tried - valiantly but unsuccessfully - to stay home. She continued to substitute-teach and joined the PTA, which elected her president.

A frugal woman, Phyllis became an exceptionally talented seamstress. When she lived in Philadelphia, she window-shopped at department stores, then recreated the fashions at home. Her sewing machine was a familiar sound to her children, who often wore beautiful homemade coats and dresses.

Phyllis’ journey to politics began in 1962. Armed with a petition signed by many of her neighbors, she showed up at borough council to complain (not for the last time) about noisy motorcycles and traffic. Impassioned letters to the editor - always signed with her real name - flowed from her pen for years to come. A failed run for mayor in 1965, in which she lost the primary by 28 votes, didn’t dampen her enthusiasm for the town and its residents.

Life wasn’t all work. Phyllis also found time for annual family vacations at the Jersey shore, where she unwound to the sound of crashing waves and the smell of salt air. She had grown to love Atlantic City when she spent summers waiting tables there during college.

Back home, the family gathered most Friday nights at the Mansion House, where Ruth Christ held court. Saturday nights, Phyllis and Clyde went dancing at the American Legion, and nearly every Sunday morning found the whole family at St. John’s.

In 1974, Phyllis began planning Pine Grove’s part in the nation’s bicentennial celebration. With her mother (an authority on American history), and hundreds of volunteers, she organized a week of activities including a colonial-themed Olympics (with hoop-rolling and apple-paring), fireworks and a grand pageant.

The money raised more than covered the festivities; the surplus became the basis of the park along the old Union canal, now punctuated on one end by a community swimming pool Phyllis helped to raise money for and build.

Phyllis taught science and math in several local school districts and at the VoTech. She also taught GED and adult education, but was perhaps proudest of the work she did with many of the 20,000 Vietnamese refugees who passed through Fort Indiantown Gap in 1975. She started out as a volunteer with 200 other teachers, but eventually was responsible for writing curriculum and visiting 26 classrooms daily to assist other instructors. Her students gave her a hand-lettered placard that called her a “Friend of Refugees.” Phyllis continued to teach school well into the 1980s, when the borough began taking up more of her time.

In 1977, when her brother-in-law, Fred Hesser, left borough council, Phyllis took his seat. She was re-elected, and in January 1989, she became council president. She ran unsuccessfully for a seat in the state legislature in 1982. In 2007, she lost the Republican primary for her borough council seat, won a write-in campaign on the Democratic ticket, and lost in the general election by just four votes. A lifelong Republican, she must have thought it strange to see the (D) after her name on the ballot. She volunteered with the county Republican party for decades, calling and registering voters, knocking on doors and campaigning for the GOP.

During the three decades Phyllis was on council, she took on everything from water shortages to sewage disposal and landfills - issues her science background prepared her to address. In the face of sometimes brutal criticism (and once, a rock hurled through a dining room window), she strove to resolve conflicts civilly and fairly.

Phyllis remained dedicated to her church, spending years voluntarily managing its 200-year-old cemetery with its nearly 5,000 graves. She took the job seriously, likely because her father was the cemetery’s superintendent for 25 years. She taught adult Sunday School in the same parlor where her father led classes, and was on church council. Residents at Schoolyard Square and other elder-care facilities saw her when she completed some lay ministry training and began visiting to offer them communion on Sunday afternoons.

She was honored at dinners, with testimonials, plaques and certificates, but she never felt she’d done enough. There was always one more thing she could imagine doing to leave the world a better place.

Phyllis is survived by generations of her students, townspeople who owe her a debt of gratitude for her tireless service, two daughters, Elaine and Kathy, a son-in-law, Robert and three grandchildren, Peter, Mary and Charlie.

Her family would like to express their gratitude to those who helped her as she aged, who fixed the plumbing and kept the old coal heater running, those who shoveled snow and mowed the lawn. It was a great gift to her, a spark of hope that all that was good in people in the town and nation she believed in would ultimately shine through.

There will be a viewing on Saturday, January 16, 2021 from 11:00 A.M. until Noon at the H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove. Graveside Services and interment will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at 12:30 P.M., at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, Pine Grove with Pastor Jay Unzaga officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer contributions be made to either St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105, St. John's Lutheran Church, 222 S. Tulpehocken St. Pine Grove, PA 17963, or Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA, 18 Wertz Dr.Pine Grove, PA 17963 in her memory.

You may send condolences online at www.hlsnyderfuneralhome.com

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Dolores Ann Parker, 90, of Llewellyn, passed away Monday, Jan. 4, 2021, at Orwigsburg Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. 

Born in Branch Township May 14, 1930, she was a daughter of the late William and Veronica (McClosky) Siminitus. After graduating from Branch High School, she worked briefly at Pomeroy’s in downtown Pottsville until the birth of her children. She was a member of the former St. Francis of Assisi Church in Minersville. Dolores married her high school sweetheart, Frank D. Parker, on January 6, 1952. She loved to dance at the Pottsville Club, where they were members. Dolores and Frank were world travelers, visiting France, Japan, Africa, and several Caribbean islands. Dolores was a homemaker for many years and kept an immaculate home. An exceptional self- taught cook and baker, she took pride in her culinary skills and enjoyed lavishing them on her family. She excelled in needlepoint and sewing, making many of her own stylish clothes and wedding gowns. Other interests included swimming, fishing, playing cards with friends, completing crossword puzzles, and loving on her grandchildren. Later in life, she spent several years living out west before returning home. Dolores loved spending time in her extensive gardens and bringing beauty to her own little corner of the world. She radiated a zest for life and was always quick with a laugh and even quicker with a hug. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Frank in 2000, and siblings Alma Paul, Violet Klick, Vincent Siminitus, Donald Siminitus, and Ronald Siminitus; granddaughter Amanda Parker. Dolores is survived by her sons David Parker and partner Robin, Pottsville, Jeffrey Parker and wife Phyllis, Lake Wynonah, and Jamie Parker and wife Lisa, Glendale, AZ,; grandchildren Jennifer Raudenbush and husband Art, Amy Moore and husband James, Christian Parker, Christopher Parker, Robert Parker, Nicole Strauch and husband Brian, Tara Mercuri and husband Alfredo, and six great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

A private burial service will be held at Mt. Peace with Monsignor Ed Zemanick officiating. Services are entrusted to the Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home, Inc., Minersville.

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State Police Investigating Hit and Run in Middleport

January 7, 2021, 8:50 pm

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The Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville are investigating hit and run that occurred in Middleport earlier this week.

According to Troopers, the incident occurred on Sunday, January 3rd, 2021, around 12:15pm, on Walnut Street.

Police say the incident occurred as a vehicle was traveling east on Walnut Street and struck a parked Jeep Patriot and fled the scene.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Frackville barracks at (570) 874-5300.

LCCC Receives $1 Million Contribution from Former Pilot

January 7, 2021, 9:31 pm

≫ Next: Governor Wolf Announces Pennsylvania to Send 1,000 National Guard Members to Washington DC

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Lehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC) has received a $1 million donation from Nevin Earl Remaley, former airline pilot originally from Lehighton, which will provide scholarships to students in the Aviation program at the college. 

In addition, in honor of this generous contribution, the Technology Center on the Schnecksville campus will be named the Nevin Earl Remaley Technology Center. A dedication and naming ceremony will be held at a later date.

Remaley died in June 2020 at the age of 94. He attended Lehighton Area High School and before graduation enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He attended the Naval School of Electronics and was an electrician on a landing craft tanker. He served during World War II, fighting in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. He received an honorary discharge in 1946.

Remaley earned his bachelor’s degree in corporate accounting and business administration from the Allentown Business School, then worked for a New York brokerage firm, where he sold stocks and securities on Wall Street. He became hooked on flying after flying a trainer Piper Cub out of the Lehighton Airport. He went on to become a commercial airline pilot for Allegheny Airlines and U.S. Airways and retired as a captain after 25 years.

“Mr. Remaley had a passion for flying and wanted to ensure that others had the opportunity to pursue their dreams,” said LCCC president Dr. Ann D. Bieber. “The college is honored to be able to carry on this legacy for a man who lived a long and fruitful life. LCCC students will benefit greatly from his generosity.”

“It all started when Jake Arner, owner of Arner’s Flying Service in Lehighton gave Mr. Remaley a chance to fly over the Lehigh Valley,” said close friend and trustee John E. Hofkes. “From that point on Mr. Remaley said he was hooked on flying. He said, ‘I owe my flying career to Mr. Arner and the GI Bill.’ His life-long dream was that one day he would be able to pay it forward by helping future aviators learn how to fly through the Nevin Earl Remaley Aviation Scholarship Fund.”

The Nevin Earl Remaley Aviation Scholarship will benefit students who are working on their pilot’s license, offsetting the high cost of flight fees, and will honor Remaley’s passion for flying. Students who are residents of Pennsylvania will receive preference.

Governor Wolf Announces Pennsylvania to Send 1,000 National Guard Members to Washington DC

January 7, 2021, 9:34 pm

≫ Next: LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Cyber Charter School Responds to "Schuylkill County School District Business Managers Speak Out on Charter School Funding"

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On Thursday, Governor Tom Wolf announced that approximately 1,000 Pennsylvania National Guard (PNG) members have been activated to support the District of Columbia (D.C.) National Guard and local civilian authorities through the Jan. 20 presidential inauguration in our nation’s capital.
“The unprecedented and disturbing events yesterday in our nation’s capital are cause for ongoing concern and Pennsylvania is prepared to assist as needed in securing peace and an orderly transfer of power on January 20,” Gov. Wolf said. “Our National Guard members will assist the D.C. National Guard and local civilian authorities as they work to keep the area surrounding the Capitol and other locations secure in the coming days leading up to the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden.”

“Pennsylvania Guard members are well-trained and well-prepared to assist our communities, commonwealth and country in any way they can,” Acting Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler said. “We are also very fortunate that our Guard members have extensive experience working alongside the D.C. National Guard as part of past training events and presidential inaugurations.”

The PNG members activated will report to their local armories over the next few days to receive their assignments and then travel to the D.C. area to support as required.

Pennsylvania has the second largest National Guard in the country with approximately 19,000 members located in more than 80 armories and readiness centers statewide.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Cyber Charter School Responds to "Schuylkill County School District Business Managers Speak Out on Charter School Funding"

January 8, 2021, 7:49 am

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The following is a Letter to the Editor that Skook News received on the morning of January 8th, 2021 from Tim Eller, Senior Vice President of Outreach and Government Relations, Commonwealth Charter Academy, after posting a Letter to the Editor from School District Business Managers on January 7th, 2021.

You can read the original post here:

https://www.skooknews.com/2021/01/letter-to-editor-schuylkill-county.html

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The January 7, 2021, letter to the editor (Schuylkill County School District Business Managers Speak Out on Charter School Funding) signed by six Schuylkill County school business managers is not just misleading, it is flat out wrong.

The most important fact they failed to share is that students who attend public cyber charter schools, like Commonwealth Charter Academy, on average, receive 25 percent less funding than their peers who attend district-run schools.

In reality, Pennsylvania’s charter school funding formula creates an unequal, two-tier funding mechanism that treats public cyber charter school students as second-class citizens. All students should receive the same amount of funding regardless of what public school their family chooses.

Let’s consider some additional facts that the business managers left out.

As of the 2018-19 school year, all Schuylkill County school districts combined spent a total of $291.4 million, of which $9.2 million, or 3.2 percent, accounted for students attending public cyber charter schools; however, these districts spent $37.3 million, or 13 percent, on pension costs.

In addition, these districts amassed $53.4 million in reserve funds – 18.3 percent of their budgets and nearly six times more than their cyber charter school spending.

The largest cost driver for school districts is pension costs and school districts are using cyber charter schools as an excuse.

School districts have complete control of how much they transfer to public cyber charter schools: better serve families to meet the needs of their child.

Contrary to what the business managers stated, Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA) under state and federal laws is both a public school and a nonprofit, 501(c) organization; CCA does not make a profit. It is disappointing and disheartening that they intentionally mislead the public into thinking public cyber charter schools are for-profit entities.

While the business managers criticize cyber charter schools, their comments actually attack parents for exercising their right to send their child to the public school that will best serve their child.

The fact is, CCA serves as a lifeline for thousands of students who have been ignored or failed by their local school district. Students don’t have time to wait for school districts to get their act together, which is why parents step in and vote with their feet.

Tim Eller
Senior Vice President of Outreach and Government Relations
Commonwealth Charter Academy
Harrisburg, PA

NOW HIRING: Universal Forest is Hiring in Gordon and Delano

January 8, 2021, 8:24 am

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Universal Forest is currently hiring for several positions at their Gordon and Delano facilities.

Schuylkill County Municipal Authority Lifts Water Boil Advisory

January 8, 2021, 10:03 am

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The Schuylkill County Municipal Authority announced on Friday that a Water Boil Advisory that was put in place last month has been lifted.

The advisory had gone into place on December 25, 2020 for all customers served by the SCMA Broad Mountain Water System. 

SCMA reports that the system has returned to normal operating conditions and regulatory compliance with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. 

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PennDOT Announces Road Work Scheduled for Next Week in Schuylkill County

January 8, 2021, 11:40 am

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PennDOT District 5 has announced Road Work in Schuylkill County Scheduled for the Week of January 11th, 2021 through January 15th, 2021.

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Rush/Ryan Twps.

Road name: PA 54
Between: PA 309 and Mahanoy City

Type of work: Pothole Patching
Restriction: Lane restriction with flagging.

Start date: 1/11/21
Est completion date: 1/15/21
Restrictions in effect (time of day): 07:00 AM To 03:00 PM

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Kline Twp.

Road name: PA 309
Between: Ben Titus Road and Lofty Road

Type of work: Pothole Patching
Restriction: Lane restriction with flagging.

Start date: 1/11/21
Est completion date: 1/15/21
Restrictions in effect (time of day): 07:00 AM To 03:00 PM

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Ryan/Blythe Twps.

Road name: Burma Road
Between: Morea Road and 2nd Street

Type of work: Pothole Patching
Restriction: Lane restriction with flagging.

Start date: 1/11/21
Est completion date: 1/15/21
Restrictions in effect (time of day): 07:00 AM To 03:00 PM

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New Castle/Ryan Twps.

Road name: PA 61
Between: Burma Road and Interstate 81

Type of work: Pothole Patching
Restriction: Lane restriction with flagging.

Start date: 1/11/21
Est completion date: 1/15/21
Restrictions in effect (time of day): 07:00 AM To 03:00 PM

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Reilly/Branch Twps.

Road name: US 209
Between: PA 125 and Minersville Llewellyn Hwy.

Type of work: Crack Sealing
Restriction: Lane restriction with flagging.

Start date: 1/11/21
Est completion date: 1/15/21
Restrictions in effect (time of day): 07:00 AM To 03:00 PM

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Tremont Twp.

Road name: Interstate 81
Between: Exit 107 (US 209) and Exit 112 (PA 25)

Type of work: Brush Cutting and Drain Cleaning
Restriction: Lane restriction in both directions.

Start date: 1/11/21
Est completion date: 1/14/21
Restrictions in effect (time of day): 07:00 AM To 03:00 PM

Man Wanted by Girardville Police for Access Device Fraud

January 8, 2021, 1:45 pm

≫ Next: Frackville Awarded $1.1 Million Federal Grant to Repair Roads and Culverts Damaged by Flooding

≪ Previous: PennDOT Announces Road Work Scheduled for Next Week in Schuylkill County

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The Girardville Police Department is asking for the public's help in locating a man that is wanted on felony access device charges.

Police say Justin Michael Kachelris is wanted for a series of unauthorized debit charges to the bank account of another person.

Anyone with information on Kachelris' whereabouts are asking to call 911 or Schuylkill County Communications at (570) 668-6100.

Frackville Awarded $1.1 Million Federal Grant to Repair Roads and Culverts Damaged by Flooding

January 8, 2021, 1:56 pm

≫ Next: Skook News Obituaries: January 8th, 2021

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On Friday, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) announced in a press release that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $1,130,278.60 in federal funding to Frackville Borough for roadway and culvert repairs as result of severe storms and flooding which occurred in 2018. 
The funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

According to the press release, severe storms and flooding during the period of August 10-15, 2018 caused significant damage to several roadways and culverts across Northeastern PA, including in Frackville Borough.

The borough is reported to utilize the funding to address culvert collapse, road washout, and inlet structure washout, as well as upstream and downstream bank erosion. They also intend to utilize mitigation opportunities and current codes and standards to reduce or eliminate similar damages in the future by upsizing culverts.

Photo Caption:  PennDOT working to clear a blocked culvert during heavy rain in 2018 in Frackville.

Skook News Obituaries: January 8th, 2021

January 8, 2021, 7:27 pm

≫ Next: Pennsylvania State Police Welcomes 51 New Troopers

≪ Previous: Frackville Awarded $1.1 Million Federal Grant to Repair Roads and Culverts Damaged by Flooding

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Skook News Obituaries: January 8th, 2021

Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.

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Paul Frederick Krapf, of Bethlehem, PA, died on Thursday, January 7, 2021 in Holy Family Nursing Home, Bethlehem. He was the husband of Dorothy J. (nee Becker) to whom he was married 57 years at the time of her death in 1999. 

Born in Tamaqua, PA on April 13, 1920, Paul was a son of the late Andrew W. and Catherine (nee Scheidegger) Krapf. A 1940 graduate of Tamaqua High School, he served in WWII as a sergeant in the 792nd Bomb Squadron, 468th Bomb Group of the U. S. Army – Air Corps. Paul saw service in the India-Burma, Central Burma, China Eastern Mandates, Air Off-Japan, and Western Pacific campaigns. He was awarded multiple medals for his service including the Asian-Pacific Theater Service Medal with 6 Bronze Stars. Paul received his electrical training at the Franklin Electrical School in Summit Hill, PA. He was employed at the New Jersey Zinc Company in Friedensville, Center Valley, PA. Paul was a member of American Vets Post # 288, Allentown, PA and a life member of the VFW Post #2124, Allentown and American Legion Post # 576, Allentown. He drove for Meals on Wheels for many years and was a Presbyterian. 

Paul is survived by children, Albert P. Krapf and his wife Joanne of Lansdale, PA, David A. Krapf and his wife Barbie of Alburtis, PA, Paula F. (Krapf) Behler of Bethlehem as well as 9 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and 2 great great grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces. He was the last survivor of 14 siblings. 

Graveside Services with Military Honors will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 in Sky View Memorial Park, Hometown, PA. Memorials in Paul’s name may be made to the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors, Inc., 1117 Country Club Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011. 

Attendees are reminded of the COVID-19 pandemic guidelines and are kindly asked to wear a mask and observe physical distancing. 

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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Jeannie Savitsky, 65, of Ringtown, passed away Thursday, January 7th, 2021.

Jeannie was born in Shenandoah, on September 4, 1955, a daughter of the late Jean (McCole) Savitsky and Frank Savitsky, Sr..

She was a graduate of the West Hazleton High School, and had worked for over twenty years at the Down River Company in Hazleton.

Jeannie attended and was a member of the former Holy Ghost Polish National Catholic Church in Shenandoah.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially in the swimming pool.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Patsy Savitsky and two brothers, Robert Savitsky and Frank Savitsky, Jr.

Jeannie is suvived by three sisters, Joan Savitsky, of Ringtown; Jane Metcalf, of Shenandoah and Connie Sincavage, of Ashland.

She is also survived by 12 nieces and nephews; 15 grand nieces and nephews and was awaiting the arrival of a great grand niece.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a graveside service at 11 AM on Monday, January 11th 2021, at the Polish National Cemetery in Shenandoah Heights.

All Covid-19 precautions, including wearing of masks will be followed.

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Joseph A. Yablonsky, 70, a resident of Brandonville, passed away due to complications of Covid-19 on Thursday, January 7th, 2021.

Born in Shenandoah on January 11, 1950, he was the son of the late Francis and Gloria (Chowansky) Yablonsky. He was a graduate of the former Immaculate Heart high school, and then served in the Army National Guard.

Joe went on to become a lifelong self employed business man, owning and operating both Yablonsky's Sporting Goods and Market along with Yablonsky's Auto Sales in Brandonville.

He was an auto enthusiast, having owned and sold many classic automobiles, as well as having belong to many local car clubs.

Joe was very musically inclined, proficient in a wide range of instruments and for over forty years was a member of the Paramounts orchestra. He excelled at the playing of the accordian and was well known for his polka music.

Locally, Joe was a member of the Shenandoah Fish and Game Club, the Park Crest Fish and Game Club, the Sheppton Amerian Legion and he was a proud lifetime member of the National Rifle Association. He was also a very active member of the former Frackville Lodge, F&AM and recently a member of the Pottsville Lodge.

Joe is survived by his two brothers, Frank Yablonsky and Stephen husband of Cherise Yablonsky. Nephews Francis, Eric and Andrew, and nieces Gloria and Stephanie, along with their children also survive as do many aunts, uncles, cousins and good friends.

Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, no services are planned at this time

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Pennsylvania State Police Welcomes 51 New Troopers

January 8, 2021, 10:38 pm

≫ Next: Law Enforcement Appreciation Day: January 9th, 2021

≪ Previous: Skook News Obituaries: January 8th, 2021

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On Friday, Colonel Robert Evanchick, commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, announced that 51 cadets graduated from the State Police Academy in Hershey and have been assigned to troops across the commonwealth. The men and women represent the 160th graduating cadet class.
In accordance with statewide measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the graduation ceremony was closed to the public. Friends and family were afforded the opportunity to view the event via live streams on the Academy YouTube channel.

"Graduating from the academy and attaining the rank of trooper is a special day in the career of each member of the Pennsylvania State Police," said Colonel Evanchick. "It marks the end of one journey and the beginning of another; filled with great opportunities, great challenges, and even greater responsibilities."


Six cadets received special awards and recognition:

• The American Legion Award, presented to the most outstanding cadet in recognition of all-around academic, physical, ethical, and moral qualifications: Richard L. Magnuson Jr.
• The Colonel Ronald L. Sharpe Award, presented to the cadet who most exemplifies the qualities of leadership: Kevin P. Wilson
• The Colonel John K. Schafer Award, presented to the cadet who achieved the highest combined score on a series of physical skills tests: Giovanni Romero
• The Commissioner Daniel F. Dunn Award, presented to the cadet who earned the highest level of academic achievement in the class: Jeffrey W. Payton Jr.
• The Colonel Paul J. Chylak Award, presented to the cadet who demonstrated the highest proficiency in driver safety training: Nicholas L. Hornbaker
• The Sergeant Charles B. Gesford Award, presented to the cadet who scored the highest on the department's pistol qualification course: Matthew D. Stercho

The graduates have been assigned to the following troops:

Troop E, Corry
Nichole R. Klapchar
Matthew D. Stercho

Troop E, Erie
John R. Stutz
Kevin P. Wilson

Troop F, Coudersport
Luke W. Fusco

Troop F, Montoursville
Brett M. Harvey

Troop H, Carlisle
Michael J. Folcarelli

Troop H, Chambersburg
Brandon M. Gelet
Bradley G. Lay
Benjamin L. Leberfinger
Adam J. Maurer
Ally G. Neidigh
Christopher C. Pile
James T. Stevenson Jr.

Troop H, Gettysburg
Jason Gueck
Cody F. Mack
Nathan S. McHugh

Troop H, Lykens
Thomas J. Kurtz

Troop J, Avondale
Kira M. Baierl
Jordan A. Bechtel
Jesse G. Crnkovic
Nicholas J. Hornbaker
Jose C. Kizis
Drayton P. Laverio
Giovanni Romero III
Bryce E. Ruth

Troop J, Lancaster
Christopher S. Hawn

Troop J, York
Rachel M. Christensen
David W. Ferrier
Edward L. Kiser
Jacques F. Rougeau Jr.
Arileidy Salvador
Colton Zundel

Troop K, Media
Christopher J. Becker
Mark L. DiSalvatore
Ross M. Lavan
Richard L. Magnuson Jr.
Matthew R. Orkisz
Thomas J. Platt

Troop K, Philadelphia
Jarred B. Burnett
Joseph F. Koza III
Thomas E. Mesunas
Jay S. Nichols
Jeffrey W. Payton Jr.

Troop K, Skippack
Dalson W. Heinrich
John M. Hoy
Justin G. Zambelli

Troop L, Jonestown
Justin T. Gutsie
Nicholas S. Musser

Troop L, Schuylkill Haven
Kyle F. Brands
Dylan J. Reigle