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Law Enforcement Appreciation Day: January 9th, 2021
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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL: Scores from Friday, January 9th, 2021
Varsity Girls
Jim Thorpe - 61
Lehighton - 33
Nativity BVM - 55
Weatherly - 23
North Schuylkill - 72
Pottsville - 40
Tamaqua - 45
Pine Grove - 36
Varsity Boys
Lehighton - 39
Jim Thorpe - 35
Nativity BVM - 66
Weatherly - 60
Pottsville - 64
North Schuylkill - 29
Pine Grove - 56
Tamaqua - 28
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This sports update is brought to by
Anthony Urban Law Offices. P.C.
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Skook News Obituaries: January 9th, 2021
Skook News Obituaries: January 9th, 2021
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Robert W. Heinbach, 73, of Pottsville, passed away Thursday, January 7, 2020 at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Cedar Crest.Born on July 20, 1947, in Pottsville, he was the son of the late William and Lillian Montag Heinbach.
Robert proudly served his country in the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War as a Specialist, 4th class. He was a member of Bethany Christian Fellowship in Cressona, Free & Accepted Masons Of Pennsylvania, 216 Pulaski Lodge in Pottsville, and Tall Cedars. He was a graduate of Pottsville High School. While playing varsity football he received the most valuable football player award in 1964. He also received several diving awards.
He worked 32 years as a truck driver at Deka Batteries before retiring.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Susan E. (Lang) Heinbach .
He is survived by sons, James R. Heinbach, Scranton and David M. Heinbach (Amy); daughter, Carolyn Beltz, Pottsville (Raymond). Grandchildren, Emily, Camryn, Zachary, Alyssa, Lily, Ryan, Samantha and Molly.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 13, 2020 at Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, 515 W. Market St., Pottsville, with Pastor Dennis Snyder officiating. Family and friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will follow at Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven.
Please visit SchlitzerAllenPugh.com to leave a condolence for the family.
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Christina M. Heffner, 35, of Orwigsburg, passed away unexpectedly on January 4th in Geisinger St. Lukes Hospital, Orwigsburg.Born in Reading, on February 21, 1985, she was a daughter of Keith A. and the late Roseann Marie (Laughlin) Heffner.
She was a graduate of Blue Mountain High School and received an Associate degree in Secretarial studies.
Christina enjoyed spending time with family and friends.
She is survived by her father, Keith A. Heffner; sister Rebecca L. Otterbein, wife of Charles, of Pottsville; and nieces: KyLee, Jocelynn, and Maddison.
A Memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.Lord-Bixler.com
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She was born September 5, 1932 in Pottsville the daughter of Evelyn Schoffstall Richards and John J Richards.
She was a gymnast in her younger years known for doing cartwheels and hanging off trees on Jefferson Street. She was always proud that she received all A’s in third grade not an easy feat in 1940.
At Pottsville high school where she was graduated in 1950, she was named best dressed and most poised female. After graduation, she turned down a modeling scholarship and worked as a customer representative for Bell Telephone.
She met the love of her life, George Heffner, in 1946 when she was 14 and he 21. He wrote in her sister Shirley’s yearbook “tell your kid sister that I will call her up for a date when she turns 18.” He kept his word and they married in 1953 enjoying 63 years together until he died in 2016. George was a 5 term legislator and then 2 term judge with Barbara standing beside him giving him her honesty and the confidence he would need to do his work.
Barbara was always known for being humble and kind to all she met even in her late years when she wasn’t really aware of her surroundings as the ravages of 30 years of Parkinson’s disease and a stroke took hold.
She was a wonderful, kind, loving mother and grandmother always putting others’ needs above hers. She had many friends because she was a friend a friend would like to have. She enjoyed being with people especially entertaining friends with cocktail parties, cooking marvelous meals, and parking on Centre Street to watch all the shoppers go by during downtown’s heyday.
She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, the Freida Hoh circle, the law wives, the Philanthrop Society, and the Good Samaritan auxiliary.
Barbara was predeceased by her parents, her sister Shirley, her daughter Evelyn, and her husband Judge George Heffner. She is survived by her brother John Richards of Washington’s Crossing, her daughter, Kimberly Carberry wife of Glen Carberry of Norwich, Connecticut, her son George Heffner Jr and wife Susan of Orwigsburg, grand children Christopher and Caroline Carberry, Brittany, Danielle, and Emily Heffner, and great granddaughter Charlotte Tassone.
Services will be deferred for a celebration of life after Covid subsides. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers any donations to go to Trinity Lutheran Church, 300 W. Arch St., Pottsville, PA 17901.
Lord-Bixler funeral home is in charge of her arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at http://www.Lord-Bixler.com
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Born in Shenandoah on August 5, 1929, she was the daughter of the late William and Helen (Babarsky) Romanusky.
Earlier in life she was employed in the local garment industry, having worked for the former Russell Williams Dress Factory, Mahanoy City. Florence, along with her late husband, Joseph L. Spudis were the proprietors of the former Spudis Service Station in Upper William Penn, Shenandoah. Prior to her retirement, she was employed as a clerk at the Frackville Exxon.
Florence was a member of Divine Mercy Parish, Shenandoah and the former Saint George Church, Shenandoah, the Greater Shenandoah Area Senior Citizens and the ILGWU.
Preceding her in death in addition to her parents were her husband Joseph L. Spudis in 1988; two brothers, Albert A. Romanusky and John Romanusky.
Surviving are one son, James “Jim” Spudis and his wife Virginia of Ringtown; one daughter, Janet Moyer and her husband Robert “Bob” of Frackville; one granddaughter, Janelle of Ashland; one grandson, Robert “Bobby” Moyer and his wife Courtney of Virginia; two great-grandsons, Wilson and Charlie; two sisters-in-law, Sandra Banevich and Cheryl Ralston; nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 10:00 am in Divine Mercy Church, 232 W. Cherry St., Shenandoah with Monsignor Ronald C. Bocian, Pastor as the celebrant. Interment will follow in Our Lady of Dawn Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights. A viewing will be held on Wednesday morning from 9:00 am until 10:00 am in the church.
Walukiewicz-Oravitz Fell Funeral Home, 132 S. Jardin St., Shenandoah is in charge of the arrangements.
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She was born on Tuesday, December 20, 1960, in Pottsville, a daughter of the late Leroy F Klinger and the late Arlene J (Neumeister) Klinger.
Christine was a graduate of Tri-Valley High School.
She was the bakery manager at Weis Market, Frackville, then was a baker at Dunkin Donuts, Pottsville, and last worked at Lowe's Distribution Center, Pottsville until becoming ill.
Christine enjoyed camping, fishing, races at Big Diamond, collecting owls, and spending time with her family.
She is survived by her husband Michael T Herb; by two sons, Michael T Herb, Jr and Nicholas W Herb both of Ashland; three brothers, Leroy Klinger, Jr of Ashland, Thomas Klinger of Ashland, and Peter Klinger of Mount Carmel; five sisters, Johanna Klinger of Ashland, Connie Klinger of Ashland, Alice Schucker of Hegins, Joyce Klinger of Tower City, and Molly Pinkerton of Williamstown; and several nieces and nephews.
Following Christine's wishes, there will be no services.
Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Valley View, is in charge of arrangements.
Condolences can be left for the family at www.buffingtonreed.com.
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U.S. Supreme Court Will Hear Mahanoy Area Student's Free Speech Case
In 2017, the student, who was a minor at the time and is known in court documents as B.L., sent a message - a “snap” - to her followers on the social media platform Snapchat expressing her frustration with not being named to the varsity cheerleading squad at Mahanoy Area High School. The snap was a photo of the student and a friend with their middle fingers raised accompanied by the text, “fuck school fuck softball fuck cheer fuck everything”. In response, the school removed her from the junior varsity cheerleading team.
B.L., who is being represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania, filed a lawsuit against the school district, claiming the school district’s punishment violated her First Amendment rights. A federal district court judge ordered the school to reinstate B.L. to the team, ruling that the school had exceeded its authority in punishing B.L. for off-campus speech, a decision that a federal appeals court affirmed last year. B.L. remained a member of the cheerleading team until she graduated in 2020.
In a statement, the ACLU of Pennsylvania responded to the court’s announcement.
“The beating heart of the Bill of the Rights is the idea that government power is limited. This public school wants the nation’s highest court to grant it sweeping new authority to punish students for speech that occurs away from school and causes no disruption. We look forward to explaining to the justices why the authority that the school is seeking is antithetical to the concept of free speech that is the foundation of the First Amendment.” said Reggie Shuford, executive director of the ACLU of Pennsylvania
B.L.’s father, Larry Levy said “As a parent, I know that sometimes kids do foolish things. But when my daughter is on her own time and out of school, it’s my role as a parent to address her behavior. In this situation, I did that and felt that the school overstepped its bounds. We’re in this case because we don’t want to see schools have the power to discipline students for what they do on their own time. Leave that authority to parents.”
“Allowing public schools to punish student speech that takes place off-campus outside of school hours would teach students the wrong lesson - that they have no free-speech rights anywhere. Requiring students to refrain from criticizing their sports team or extracurricular activity when they are off-campus as a condition of participating in that activity, as the school district did in this case, is inconsistent with core First Amendment values. We will explain to the court why the First Amendment limits the school’s ability to punish students for this type of speech, and we hope that the court will agree with the four previous rulings in this case that recognized that.” said Sara Rose, senior staff attorney at the ACLU of Pennsylvania.
In a statement made available by the Mahanoy Area School District's Facebook page, the district stated:
"Mahanoy Area School District stands behind its restrained approach to disciplining student speech-which is the same approach that thousands of schools across the country have taken for generations. We are proud of our extracurricular programs. Learning to participate in team sports and abide by team rules teaches students lifelong lessons about responsibility and teamwork. Thus, when BL broke team rules and posted messages that she admitted would undermine team morale and chemistry, BL's coaches responded with a temporary, team-related punishment: suspending her from the team for the year. Obviously, BL's family disagrees with that punishment, and responded by bringing a federal lawsuit. That lawsuit has produced a judicial decision that leaves schools powerless to respond to speech that is directed at the school environment and would have a devastating effect on students' well-being during the school day. The School District views that decision as inimical to our basic mission of safeguarding student welfare. Groups representing 1.7 million teachers and thousands of school districts nationwide have supported our efforts to reverse this unprecedented ruling in the Supreme Court, and we are hopeful that the Supreme Court will grant review."
No date has been provided on when the case would be heard by the Supreme Court.
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Schuylkill County Democrats Urge Legislators to Recant Positions on Election Fraud
After a week that involved protests, rioting in the United State Capitol Building, and the United States Congress affirming President-Elect Joe Biden, the Schuylkill County Democrat Committee is urging Republican elected officials that represent the county to recant their position on election fraud.
U.S. Representative Dan Meuser, State Senator Dave Argall, and State Representative Jerry Knowles have stood by President Donald Trump's claims that election fraud occurred in Pennsylvania during the November General Election.
Representative Meuser had commented as recently as January 7th, 2021 stating that unlawful actions took place in Pennsylvania on election day including accepting ballots past 8:00 pm on Election Day, inconsistent application of verified signature requirements for in-person ballots versus mail-in ballots, authorizing the curing of mail-in ballots with less than a 24-hour's notice, leading to inconsistent preparedness between counties, and authorizing the use of unsecure drop boxes, which is not permitted in statute.
Representative Knowles had joined a group of Republican led lawmakers back in November calling for a legislative led election audit, which passed the Senate this past week.
"A number of issues have come to us in the aftermath of last Tuesday’s General Election. My office is being inundated with phone calls from constituents with questions about the integrity of the mail-in ballot system. People who make up the 124th District are demanding action now. Our House Republican leadership team is closely monitoring election-related misconduct and will use every legal and legislative tool at our disposal to stand up for the rule of law and the legitimacy of our elections." Knowles stated in a press release on November 10th, 2020.
On Friday, Schuylkill County Democratic Community Chairman Hugh Reiley sent letters to Senator Dave Argall and Congressman Dan Meuser, and State Representative Jerry Knowles the following letter to recant their positions.
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To State Representative Jerry Knowles:
In light of the storming of the United States Capitol on January 6, and threats of more violence in the coming days, we have asked Senator David Argall and Congressman Dan Meuser to rescind their previous claims about fraud during the presidential election of November 3, 2020, which ignores over 60 court rulings that there was no fraud.
While you, unlike Senator Argall, voted against Act 77, it is still crucial in this very dangerous situation that you communicate to your constituents that there was no election fraud.
If any violence occurs in Schuylkill County, all elected officials who relentlessly claimed election fraud will be fully responsible. If anyone in Schuylkill County gets hurt, they will have blood on their hands.
We are urging you to issue a public statement that confirms the lawfulness of the election results now, for the sake of the safety of the residents of Schuylkill County and our communities living peacefully together.
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To Congressman Dan Meuser and State Senator Dave Argall
Additionally, we are asking you to issue a public statement that confirms the lawfulness of the election results. As a reminder, Senator Argall voted for Act 77, which is in stark contradiction to his claims about unlawful mail-in ballots during the 2020 election and his hearing in Gettysburg with Rudy Giuliani.
This is a very dangerous situation that requires you to act without any further delay. If any violence occurs in Schuylkill County, you, as the relentless proponents of election fraud claims, will be fully responsible. If anyone in Schuylkill County gets hurt, you will have blood on your hands.
We urge you to immediately take back any election fraud claims. Correct your course now, for the sake of the safety of the
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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL: Scores from Saturday, January 9th, 2021
Varsity Girls
Mount Carmel - 68
Mahanoy Area - 38
Pine Grove - 33
Marian Catholic - 28
Nativity BVM - 55
Northwest Area - 42
Northwestern Lehigh - 48
Pottsville - 27
Varsity Boys
Marian Catholic - 51
Jim Thorpe - 48
Mount Carmel - 63
Mahanoy Area - 37
Panther Valley - 70
Kutztown - 53
Northern Lebanon - 41
Pine Grove - 31
Pottsville - 46
Northwestern Lehigh - 33
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This sports update is brought to by
Anthony Urban Law Offices. P.C.
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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 01/10/2021
Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 01/10/2021
Sunday - Sunny - High in the Mid 30's
Sunday Night - Cloudy - Low in the Lower 20's
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Monday - Cloudy - High in the Mid 30's
Monday Night - Clearing Overnight - Low in the Mid 20's
Tuesday - Sunny Early with Increasing Clouds - High in the Upper 30's
Tuesday Night - Cloudy - Low in the Mid 20's
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Wednesday - Clouds and Sun - High in the Upper 30's
Thursday - Cloudy with Some Sun - High in the Lower 40's
Friday - Snow Showers - High in the Upper 30's
Saturday - Cloudy - High in the Lower 30's
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Louisiana Man Found with Stolen Vehicle in Pine Grove Township
A Louisiana man was taken into custody last weekend after being found with a stolen vehicle in Pine Grove Township.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven, around 5:30pm, on Saturday, January 2nd, 2021, troopers took Dirk Andrew, 48, of Tallulah, Louisiana into custody in the area Anspach Drive and Suedberg Road after he was found with a vehicle that was stolen from Heritage Chrysler Dodge Jeep in Harrisburg.
Andrew was taken into custody and charged with receiving stolen property.
Andrew was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Reiley and released on $25,000 unsecured bail.
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Driver Hits Parked Cars in Ringtown on Sunday Morning
A driver hit two parked cars in Ringtown on Sunday morning.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Frackville, around 11:00am, on Sunday, January 10th, 2020, a driver who was not identified, was driving a Chevrolet Silverado and struck a Nissan Altima and another Chevrolet Silverado in the area of 90 West Main Street in Ringtown.
A female passenger in the vehicle suffered injuries and was taken to an area hospital.
All three vehicles involved sustained heavy damage and were towed from the scene.
Troopers continue to investigate the crash.
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HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING: Results from Saturday, January 9th, 2021
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Schuylkill Haven Man Found with Stolen Vehicle
Earlier this month, a Schuylkill Haven man was found with a stolen vehicle.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven, on January 3rd, 2021, around 9:50am, James Barlet, 50, of Schuylkill Haven was found driving a stolen 2020 Toyota Camry on North Greenview Road in North Manheim Township.
State Police charged Barlet with receiving stolen property.
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Driver Flees West Brunswick Township Crash
The Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven are looking for the driver and vehicle that crash in West Brunswick Township earlier this month.
According to Troopers, the crash on January 4th, 2021, around 8:45am, on Village Road just north of the intersection with Hickory Village.
In what appeared to be a GMC vehicle, due to car parts being left behind, hit a storm grate, went off the road, struck a mailbox and light pole. The mailbox was ripped out and the road and the light pole sustained significant damage.
The driver then fled the scene in the vehicle involved.
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Schuylkill Haven Barracks at (570) 754-4600.
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ATV Reported Stolen near Schuylkill Haven
An ATV was reported stolen last month in West Brunswick Township.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Schuylkill Haven, on December 14th, 2020, around 6:20pm, troopers responded to a report of a theft on East Second Mountain Road.
An investigation determined that a male suspect stole a Honda ATV from a property.
The investigation is ongoing and
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Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 01/11/2021
Schuylkill County Weather Forecast for 01/11/2021
Monday - Sun and Clouds - High in the Upper 30's
Monday Night - Clearing Overnight - Low in the Mid 20's
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Tuesday - Sunny Early with Increasing Clouds - High in the Upper 30's
Tuesday Night - Cloudy - Low in the Mid 20's
Wednesday - Clouds and Sun - High near 40
Wednesday Night - Cloudy - Low near 30
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Thursday - Cloudy with Some Sun - High in the Lower 40's
Friday - Cloudy - High in the Mid 40's
Saturday - Snow Showers - High near 40
Sunday - Clouds and Sun - High in the Mid 30's
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Today's Weather Forecast is brought to you by UFP Gordon, LLC
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LCCC Offers EMT Class in Schuylkill County
The class is for individuals who are likely to respond to pre-hospital emergencies or those considering a medical career. Cost is $1,350 (text and gear included). Students must be at least 16 years of age. Upon successful completion, students 18 years or older will be eligible to test for the National Registry EMT credential.
Acceptance into the EMT program is selective and requires the submission of a physician release form and proof of medical insurance.
To register, visit any LCCC campus or contact Registration and Student Records at 610-799-1197 and select “3” when prompted, or email ncregistrar@mymail.lccc.edu.
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Yuengling and Country Music Star Lee Brice Announce Official Partnership
Lee will serve as an official Brand Ambassador for Yuengling Traditional Lager. The partnership with Lee includes a variety of elements including personal appearances and performances on behalf of the brand, fan meet & greets, special promotions to meet Lee, a chance to win custom Yuengling and Lee swag, social media sweepstakes and giveaways, in-store point of sale support, social media content and support of our nation’s military.
“I am thrilled to team up with a family-owned brewery and serve as a brand ambassador for their Stars & Stripes program,” said Lee. “Spending time with my family, supporting our troops and enjoying a nice, cold beer are three things I love in life, so you could say this is the best of three worlds.”
The partnership also officially launches Yuengling’s Stars & Stripes program, which is dedicated to supporting our nation’s military through Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB), a nonprofit organization forging America’s leading health and wellness community for veterans.
Together, Yuengling and Lee will support Team RWB through special cans and packaging, in-store point of sale support and many more fan-centric activations throughout 2021. Both Yuengling and Lee are historic avid supporters of the troops. Thus, this new partnership will serve to make a positive impact and show appreciation to our nation’s military.![]()
“As America’s Oldest Brewery, we are thankful and proud of the brave and dedicated men and women who have made tremendous sacrifices to protect our country’s freedom, honor, and independence,” said Wendy Yuengling, Chief Administrative Officer and 6th generation family member, D.G. Yuengling& Son, Inc. “Lee’s commitment and devotion to our nation’s heroes embodies the patriotism of the Stars & Stripes program. Our partnership and the launch of our Stars & Stripes program demonstrates both our commitments to providing meaningful assistance for military members and their families during this challenging time.”
Yuengling plans to announce more exciting initiatives related to the Stars & Stripes program and its partnership with Lee throughout 2021, including his recently released hit song, “More Beer.”
“I am thrilled to team up with a family-owned brewery and serve as a brand ambassador for their Stars & Stripes program,” said Lee. “Spending time with my family, supporting our troops and enjoying a nice, cold beer are three things I love in life, so you could say this is the best of three worlds.”
The partnership also officially launches Yuengling’s Stars & Stripes program, which is dedicated to supporting our nation’s military through Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB), a nonprofit organization forging America’s leading health and wellness community for veterans.
Together, Yuengling and Lee will support Team RWB through special cans and packaging, in-store point of sale support and many more fan-centric activations throughout 2021. Both Yuengling and Lee are historic avid supporters of the troops. Thus, this new partnership will serve to make a positive impact and show appreciation to our nation’s military.
“As America’s Oldest Brewery, we are thankful and proud of the brave and dedicated men and women who have made tremendous sacrifices to protect our country’s freedom, honor, and independence,” said Wendy Yuengling, Chief Administrative Officer and 6th generation family member, D.G. Yuengling& Son, Inc. “Lee’s commitment and devotion to our nation’s heroes embodies the patriotism of the Stars & Stripes program. Our partnership and the launch of our Stars & Stripes program demonstrates both our commitments to providing meaningful assistance for military members and their families during this challenging time.”
Yuengling plans to announce more exciting initiatives related to the Stars & Stripes program and its partnership with Lee throughout 2021, including his recently released hit song, “More Beer.”
Submitted Photos
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Skook News Obituaries: January 11th, 2021
Skook News Obituaries: January 11th, 2021
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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John was born in Buck Run on Feb. 18, 1935, a son of the late Helen (Gucwa) and Anthony Pytko. He was a member of St. Richard’s Church, Barnesville.
John graduated from Cass Township High School (class of 1953) and West Chester University (class of 1957) with a degree in civil engineering. John worked as a civil engineer for more than 40 years, mostly with Erdman Anthony Consulting Engineers, Rochester, N.Y.
John loved spending time with his grandchildren and would often boast about them to anyone to whom he would speak. John was also a big sports fan and could be seen cheering for his favorite teams (New York Yankees, Philadelphia Eagles, Penn State, Philadelphia 76ers and the Philadelphia Flyers. John also loved his Polish heritage and would often listen to polkas. John also claimed to dislike his sons’ dogs but would often sneak lunch meat to them when no one was looking.
John was a star athlete in high school and college, playing basketball, football and baseball. In 1952, John played second base for the Cass Township Condors high school baseball team, where he beat out Allen Weind, who later played for the St. Louis Cardinals. In 1953, he was the South Schuylkill basketball league’s leading scorer. John played basketball and football at West Chester University, where he became a letterman. John was a staff member on the 1957 undefeated, unscored upon Cass Township football team. He was inducted to the Allen-Rogowicz Chapter Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in 1992. John umpired baseball and softball for more than 40 years and also officiated football and basketball.
John served the public in multiple capacities throughout his life, including serving as a justice of the peace, Foster Township supervisor from the late 1970s until 1982, and Gilberton borough council from 1988-2002, where he served as council president from 1995-2002.
He was preceded in death by his wife, the late Diane L. (Israel) Pytko. John is survived by four sons Anthony, of Pottsville; John, husband of Jenny, of Barnesville; Christian, of Gilberton; Richard, husband of Heather Billus, of Mahanoy City; and two daughters, Deborah Pytko Walker, of Jacksonville, N.C.; and Cindy Schoenauer. John is also survived by brothers and sisters Rosalie (Pytko) Gelches, wife of the late Lawrence “Tex” Gelches, and Dolores (Pytko) Leister, wife of the late Francis “Butchie” Leister. John is also survived by grandchildren Mason, Olivia, and Addison of Mahanoy City and Christian, Cole, and Caylee of Gilberton. John is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
John was also preceded in death by brothers George Pytko and his wife Stella, Anthony Pytko and his wife Millie, Bernie Pytko and his wife Irene, and Stanley, who lost his life as a fighter pilot in World War II. Additionally, he was preceded in death by four sisters: Lillian (Pytko) Reiff and her husband Victor Reiff, Sophie (Pytko) Kaczmar and her husband Stephen “Tichon” Kaczmar, Mary “Mamie” (Pytko) Burns and her husband Jimmy Burns, and Helen (Pytko) Carr and her husband John Francis Carr IV.
Due to the covid 19 pandemic, services are planned to take place in the future.
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. Mahanoy City is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book, send sympathy cards, or view Video Tribute.
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He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Carolyn (Quinn), two daughters, Lisa (Christopher) Panus and Karen (George) Bennethum, and three grandchildren, Andrew Panus, John Panus, and Samantha (Chandler) Liero.Also surviving is a sister, Robin Swank and her partner Bill Woodward.
John graduated from Schuylkill Haven High School, attended Wyoming Seminary and the United States Naval Academy, and graduated from Millersville University with degrees in education.
For over 30 years, John was an enthusiastic 5th grade teacher in the Blue Mountain School District.His love for and dedication to his students is remembered in the many beloved stories his former students share of him.
In addition to his teaching, John loved to serve his churches, formerly St. John’s UCC and currently, St. Paul’s Summer Hill UCC and contributed to his community through the Schuylkill Haven Lion’s Club.
John was blessed with wonderful and lasting friendships throughout his lifetime.He was known among friends and family for his keen sense of humor, ability to tell a story, and his warm, compassionate manner.John was an avid reader, woodworker, and photographer.
In addition to his love of life, John is remembered by his daughters as a loving and fun “girl dad” and for his swanky tie collection.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date with Pastor Kenneth McDowell officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s SummerHill UCC, 1235 Summer Hill Road, Auburn, PA 17972, Schuylkill Haven Lion’s Club, C/O Atty. Harry Rubright, P.O. Box 706, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972 or the Schuylkill Haven Public Library, St. John Street, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972.
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Born Dec. 31, 1937, in Schuylkill Haven, he was a son of the late Ceylon Sr. and Alice (Moyer) Gilbert.
He was the husband of Mary E. (Schwartz) Gilbert. The couple celebrated 57 years of marriage Oct. 19.
Melvin attended Schuylkill Haven schools.
He served in the National Guard, and was an aircraft gunner and a cook.
Melvin was a member of Zion's Red Church, Orwigsburg.
He was a life member of Friedensburg Fish & Game, and he was a social member of Landingville Fire Company. Melvin and his wife enjoyed camping at Christmas Pines for 50 years.
Melvin had been employed by Sol Enterprises as plant manager, and Peek-a-Boo textile factories, both in Schuylkill Haven, as a sewing machine mechanic. He retired from United Metal, Pottsville, as a dye setter.
In addition to his parents, Melvin was preceded in death by his brothers, Carlson Gilbert, Ceylon Gilbert Jr., Nelson Gilbert and James Gilbert; his sister, Betty Moyer.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Marlo, wife of Mike Kershner, of Pine Grove, and Melissa, wife of John Strauch, of Schuylkill Haven; two sons, Melvin M. Gilbert Jr., of Schuylkill Haven, and Martin, husband of Becki Gilbert, of Schuylkill Haven. He is also survived by grandchildren, Melvin M. Gilbert III, Jonah Gilbert, Cassie Deaven, wife of Dakota, Casey Kershner, Hunter Strauch, Jacob Gilbert and Aaron Gilbert; a great-granddaughter, Mya Gilbert; a sister, Suzanne, wife of Harold Schrader, of Schuylkill Haven; a brother, Dale Gilbert Sr., of Auburn; nieces and nephews.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, memorial services will be held at a later date. At the family's request, donations in Melvin's memory may be forwarded to Landingville Fire Company, 1 Firehouse Road, Landingville, PA 17972.
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Born at home in Frackville, PA, December 9, 1928, Cecilia was the fifth of seven children of the late Andrew and Josephine Demczak Czebieniak.
Cecilia was a 1946 graduate of Frackville High School and a 1955 graduate of Prairie Bible Institute, Three Hills, Alberta Canada with a 4 year Diploma in Bible and Missionary Training and a Teacher’s Diploma. Her desire was to go into Mission work in Europe but was rejected due to health reasons and the fact that she was an unmarried woman. Cecilia stayed on at Prairie Bible another 5 years working as a Bookkeeper.
Cecilia moved to Brooklyn N.Y. and worked as a Bookkeeper for about 16 years at the Africa Inland Mission and later as a receptionist for Dr. Arnold Forster Chiropractic. She lived and worked in N.Y. until 1980 when she met and married the love of her life, Steve Kamieniecki and shortly thereafter moved to Chicago, IL. She continued to work in the office at her husband’s welding business, until his retirement. She even became a Crossing Guard where she continued loving the children in her community. No matter where she lived, Cecilia taught children’s Sunday School and played the piano in her church for many years.
Cecilia was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Steve, of nearly 35 years, brothers Terry, Adolph, Henry and Walter Czebieniak and sisters Jeannie Stoltz and Florence Walton.
She is survived by her loving niece and care-taker Diane (Glen) Ebert, Cressona, brother-in-law Charles Walton, Cressona, step-daughter Diane Mazmanian, Chicago, 8 step-grandchildren and many many nieces and nephews, friends and those that she treated as family.
She is survived by her loving niece and care-taker Diane (Glen) Ebert, Cressona, brother-in-law Charles Walton, Cressona, step-daughter Diane Mazmanian, Chicago, 8 step-grandchildren and many many nieces and nephews, friends and those that she treated as family.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, January 16th at 10:30am at Nice-Hart Funeral Home 9 North Lehigh Ave in Frackville, PA 17931, with Pastor Randy Ott officiating. A time of Visitation and Viewing will begin at 9:30am. Interment will be in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Frackville.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave, Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601 or to Child Evangelism Fellowship 711 Deep Creek Rd, Hegins, PA 17938. www.nicehartfuneralhome.com![]()
Joseph R. “Ronnie” Phillips, of Pottsville, died Friday, Jan. 8, 2021, at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill E. Norwegian Street, Pottsville, one day after his 72nd birthday.
Born Jan. 7, 1949, in Pottsville, he was a son of the late John and Irma (Campion) Phillips.
He was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville, and served in the Army during the Vietnam War.
Joe liked golf and was a diehard Eagles fan, as well as an avid Phillies, Flyers and Sixers fan.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Maureen Johnson.
Surviving are his wife, Kathleen (Garrity) Phillips; two daughters, Janell Phillips, of Orwigsburg, and Lori Phillips, of Pottsville; granddaughter, Zoie; sisters, Patricia Phillips, of Blandon, Joan Steidle and her husband, Kurt of Ephrata, Elaine Yondura and her husband, Ron, of Schoentown, and Kathy O’Neill and her husband, Steve, of Enola; nieces and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, 319 Mahantongo St. Pottsville, PA 17901. Monsignor Edward O’Connor will officiate. Friends may call from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Wednesday at Bruce T. Hart Funeral Home, 110 N. Second St., Saint Clair, PA 17970. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Nativity Preservation Support Foundation, 1 Lawton Hill, Pottsville, PA 17901. Burial with military honors will be in Calvary Cemetery, Pottsville.![]()
Bernadette L. Moran, 65, Ashland passed away peacefully Sunday, January 10th at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Ashland, she was a daughter of the late William and Regina SpeilesBlase. She worked in customer service for RCN in Wilkes-Barre until her retirement.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Rosanne Dutton and her grandson David McKinney.
She enjoyed traveling, including camping and going to the beach. She was very close with her family. She and her sisters enjoyed each other’s company every Tuesday at their “Ashland Tea Party”, and her grandchildren were her biggest pride and joy.
Bernadette is survived by her husband of 12 years, Edward P. Moran Jr., Ashland; her three daughters: Sheila Rutko and her companion John Davis, Pottsville; Denise and her husband Stephen Ulceski, Ashland; Amy and her husband Joseph Sluzevich, Mt. Top; her three step-sons: Edward B. Moran, Conshohocken; Eric Moran, Pittston; Michael Moran, Trumansburg, NY; her siblings: Jeannie Reiner and her husband Barry of Cicero, NY; Patricia Medlinsky and her husband Joseph (Buddy) of Orwigsburg; Maryanne Balcavage and her husband Frank of Ashland; William Blase and his wife Donna of Ashland; Ruthanne Weikel and her husband Tom of Gowen City; her five grandchildren: Justin, Christopher, Andrew, Paisley and Mason; several nieces and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 14th at St. Charles Borromeo Church, Ashland with Rev. Brian Miller, pastor, as the celebrant. Friends and family are invited to her visitation at the church on Thursday morning from 9 a.m. until the time of mass. Interment will be held in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Ashland.
Funeral services will be private.
Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home Inc., Frackville is in charge of the arrangements.
Born on May 11, 1931 in Minersville, he was a son of the late Henry and Margaret Krisnitski Cazonie. He was a 1949 graduate of Minersville Area High School. He had been employed by the former Artz Meats, Minersville, later working for the former Dixon Wearever, Inc., Deer Lake.
He was a member of the former Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and the parish Holy Name Society. He was a current member of Holy Family Parish, Minersville. He was also a life member of the New Minersville Fire Company and had served as a steward for the Minersville Senior Citizens Group.
He enjoyed Atlantic City bus trips and was always happy playing cards with friends at the former Henry’s Tavern, Minersville.
Henry was predeceased by two siblings, John Cazonie and Norma Olenick; a niece, Suzanne Olenick; three nephews, Nicholas Olenick, Scott Olenick and David Cazonie; a great nephew, Michael Trubilla.
Surviving are a three nieces, Sherry Trubilla, Reading, Mary Ann Cazonie, Pottsville, and Linda Spotts (spouse, William), Wayne Township; a nephew, Joseph Cazonie (spouse, Marcella), Minersville; two great nieces, Jody Nazarian (spouse, Dr. David), Philadelphia and Angela Cazonie, Minersville; seven great nephews, Timothy Olenick, Nottingham, England, Nathan Trubilla (spouse, Chantel), Texas, Robert Trubilla, Philadelphia, Christopher Trubilla, Reading, Steven Spotts, Wayne Township, Robert and Gino Cazonie, Minersville.
Arrangements are incomplete.
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Born Jan. 7, 1949, in Pottsville, he was a son of the late John and Irma (Campion) Phillips.
He was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville, and served in the Army during the Vietnam War.
Joe liked golf and was a diehard Eagles fan, as well as an avid Phillies, Flyers and Sixers fan.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Maureen Johnson.
Surviving are his wife, Kathleen (Garrity) Phillips; two daughters, Janell Phillips, of Orwigsburg, and Lori Phillips, of Pottsville; granddaughter, Zoie; sisters, Patricia Phillips, of Blandon, Joan Steidle and her husband, Kurt of Ephrata, Elaine Yondura and her husband, Ron, of Schoentown, and Kathy O’Neill and her husband, Steve, of Enola; nieces and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, 319 Mahantongo St. Pottsville, PA 17901. Monsignor Edward O’Connor will officiate. Friends may call from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Wednesday at Bruce T. Hart Funeral Home, 110 N. Second St., Saint Clair, PA 17970. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Nativity Preservation Support Foundation, 1 Lawton Hill, Pottsville, PA 17901. Burial with military honors will be in Calvary Cemetery, Pottsville.
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Born in Ashland, she was a daughter of the late William and Regina SpeilesBlase. She worked in customer service for RCN in Wilkes-Barre until her retirement.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Rosanne Dutton and her grandson David McKinney.
She enjoyed traveling, including camping and going to the beach. She was very close with her family. She and her sisters enjoyed each other’s company every Tuesday at their “Ashland Tea Party”, and her grandchildren were her biggest pride and joy.
Bernadette is survived by her husband of 12 years, Edward P. Moran Jr., Ashland; her three daughters: Sheila Rutko and her companion John Davis, Pottsville; Denise and her husband Stephen Ulceski, Ashland; Amy and her husband Joseph Sluzevich, Mt. Top; her three step-sons: Edward B. Moran, Conshohocken; Eric Moran, Pittston; Michael Moran, Trumansburg, NY; her siblings: Jeannie Reiner and her husband Barry of Cicero, NY; Patricia Medlinsky and her husband Joseph (Buddy) of Orwigsburg; Maryanne Balcavage and her husband Frank of Ashland; William Blase and his wife Donna of Ashland; Ruthanne Weikel and her husband Tom of Gowen City; her five grandchildren: Justin, Christopher, Andrew, Paisley and Mason; several nieces and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, January 14th at St. Charles Borromeo Church, Ashland with Rev. Brian Miller, pastor, as the celebrant. Friends and family are invited to her visitation at the church on Thursday morning from 9 a.m. until the time of mass. Interment will be held in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Ashland.
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Lee A. Augustine Sr., 70, Gilberton passed away Monday, January 11th at Broad Mountain Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Frackville.Funeral services will be private.
Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home Inc., Frackville is in charge of the arrangements.
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Henry Cazonie, 89, of Minersville, passed away on Saturday at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Schuylkill -- East.Born on May 11, 1931 in Minersville, he was a son of the late Henry and Margaret Krisnitski Cazonie. He was a 1949 graduate of Minersville Area High School. He had been employed by the former Artz Meats, Minersville, later working for the former Dixon Wearever, Inc., Deer Lake.
He was a member of the former Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and the parish Holy Name Society. He was a current member of Holy Family Parish, Minersville. He was also a life member of the New Minersville Fire Company and had served as a steward for the Minersville Senior Citizens Group.
He enjoyed Atlantic City bus trips and was always happy playing cards with friends at the former Henry’s Tavern, Minersville.
Henry was predeceased by two siblings, John Cazonie and Norma Olenick; a niece, Suzanne Olenick; three nephews, Nicholas Olenick, Scott Olenick and David Cazonie; a great nephew, Michael Trubilla.
Surviving are a three nieces, Sherry Trubilla, Reading, Mary Ann Cazonie, Pottsville, and Linda Spotts (spouse, William), Wayne Township; a nephew, Joseph Cazonie (spouse, Marcella), Minersville; two great nieces, Jody Nazarian (spouse, Dr. David), Philadelphia and Angela Cazonie, Minersville; seven great nephews, Timothy Olenick, Nottingham, England, Nathan Trubilla (spouse, Chantel), Texas, Robert Trubilla, Philadelphia, Christopher Trubilla, Reading, Steven Spotts, Wayne Township, Robert and Gino Cazonie, Minersville.
Arrangements are incomplete.
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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL: Pottsville Defeats Lehighton
The Pottsville Crimson Tide boys basketball team faced the Lehighton Indians Monday evening.
Pottsville earned their third win of the season and defeating Lehighton 50 to 23.
Pottsville's record after 4 games is 3-1 and Lehighton taking their first lost stands at 1-1.
Pottsville's next game is at Jim Thorpe and North Schuylkill will visit Lehighton on Thursday.
Photos by Jocelyn Blum/Danie Mae Photography
https://www.facebook.com/dmaephotography
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Shenandoah Man Facing Charges After Hitting Parked Cars and Fleeing Monday Morning
According to Mahanoy City Police, around 5:00am, Monday, officers responded to the 1000 block of East Centre Street for a report of at least 3 parked cars that were struck by a passing vehicle.
The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene.
Later, Police located the driver, Nathaniel Lehman, 28, of Shenandoah walking along Route 54 between Mahanoy City and Shenandoah.
Lehman was taken into custody, processed and released.
Mahanoy City Police will file multiple traffic and drug related charges on Lehman through Magisterial District Judge Anthony Kilker's office.
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HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL: Scores from Monday, January 11th, 2021
Varsity Girls
Eastern Lebanon County - 48
Pottsville - 35
Varsity Boys
Pottsville - 50
Lehighton - 23
Weatherly - 55
Mahanoy Area - 45
Nativity BVM - 49
Marian Catholic - 42
Pine Grove Area - 62
North Schuylkill - 39
Panther Valley - 63
Tamaqua - 54
Williams Valley - 34
Tri-Valley - 32
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This sports update is brought to by
Anthony Urban Law Offices. P.C.
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