Today's News Wed. November 30, 2011

Local News Wed. November 30, 2011

American Lung Association Raises Awareness About Radon Gas

The American Lung Association is urging all homeowners to have their residences tested for the presence of radon gas. Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that is present in almost every county in the United States. It enters homes through cracks or holes in the foundation of buildings, and it is known to cause lung cancer. The only way to know if radon is present is to conduct scientific testing to detect its presence. If found, it can be removed from the building by installing a collection and ventilation system. The Environmental Protection Agency reports that lung cancer from radon causes over 21,000 deaths each year in the U.S., which is more than drunk driving, house fires, or carbon monoxide. For this reason, every home, regardless of geographic location, foundation type, or age should be professionally tested for the presence of radon gas.

Deadline Nears For Assistance From FEMA

Don North, Public Information Officer for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, has issued a press release to notify Schuylkill County residents that the deadline for filing applications for disaster assistance is December 14. All Disaster Recovery Centers in Pennsylvania will close today. To date 791 registrations have been received from Schuylkill County residents. Pennsylvania renters and homeowners have received $129 million in individual assistance grants so far, and the Small Business Administration has issued low-interest disaster assistance loans in the amount of $73 million for damages that resulted from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee.

West Brunswick Township Man Arrested On Child Pornography Charge

As part of an ongoing investigation, State Police from Schuylkill Haven barracks executed a search on the property of fifty-four year old William Shilbe of West Brunswick Township on November 9, 2011. They seized electronic devices from the property and sent them to the Computer Crimes Unit, where it was discovered that they contained over 1200 images of pornographic material involving young girls. As a result of the investigation, Shilbe was taken into custody and arraigned before Magisterial District Judge James Ferrier of Orwigsburg on two counts of sexual abuse of children. Judge Ferrier set bail for Shilbe at $50,000, which was paid by the accused.

Two Vehicle Accident Ties Up Traffic On Gordon Nagle Trail

Traffic was slowed yesterday on the Gordon Nagle Trail as the result of a two-vehicle crash at the entrance to Trail Garden Center. A 1993 Cadillac operated by Stella Bolinsky of Zion Grove attempted to enter Route 901 from the parking lot of Trail Gardens when she struck the drivers side of a 1996 Audi driven by Christine Ridge, of Port Carbon. The impact pushed Ridge's vehicle across the road and into a bridge abutment. Bolinsky received minor injuries, and was transported from the scene by Schuylkill Haven EMS to Schuylkill Medical Center South Jackson Street. She has been charged with illegally entering or crossing a roadway. State Police were assisted at the scene by Cressona Fire Police and Cressona Fire Company No. 1.

TODAY'S NEWS TUE. NOVEMBER 29, 2011

LOCAL NEWS TUE. NOVEMBER 29, 2011

ENNETT COPS PLEA TO CHARGES, HEADS FOR STATE PRISON

Damon Ennett went to court yesterday to begin the jury selection process, but instead entered a plea of no contest to charges of third degree murder, burglary, and aggravated assault before Judge Jacqueline Russell. Ennett cooperated with prosecutors by testifying against accused co-conspirator Julius Enoe during two trials that eventually led to Enoe's acquittal on all charges. By pleading no contest, Ennett avoids a trial and the possibility of a life sentence without parole if he had been found guilty. Judge Russell accepted Ennett's plea, and sentenced him 13 ½ to 27 years in a state correctional institution. This sentence will run consecutively to a five year federal sentence for using a firearm in a drug-related crime.

MAHANOY PLANE RESIDENTS WILL TRAVEL TO FRACKVILLE FOR THEIR MAIL

The lease for the building that houses the Mahanoy Plane Post office runs out at the end of the month, and the owners decided not to extend it. The office is being considered by the Postal Service for closure, and the building is in need of maintenance, so the owners thought it best to end their lease agreement at this time. The Postal Service considers it an emergency closing, and will take some time to consider their options for mail delivery in the village. For now, residents will have to go to the Frackville post office for their mail, but may end up with outdoor cluster boxes in the future.

WARM WEATHER GREETS DEER HUNTERS

In a tradition that is generations old, deer hunters took to the woods yesterday for the opening day of the rifle season. The weather that greeted them was not traditional, though, as temperatures climbed into the fifties. While this makes it easier to remain in a stand or blind all day, it is a challenge to those who harvest deer, as they must work quickly to get the carcass to a cool spot before the meat spoils in the heat. The good weather probably increased the number of hunters who took to the woods, and should result in a good harvest. The Pennsylvania Game Commission says that they expect sixty percent of the total deer harvest to be taken on the first day.

PENNDOT PATCHING POTHOLES

As motorists travel the highways and byways throughout Schuylkill County this week, they will encounter PennDOT workers busily filling potholes and sealing cracks. PennDOT is working on many stretches of roads, including Interstate 81 northbound between Exits 107 and 116, southbound between Exits 131 and 124, Route 209 between Tower City and Minersville, Route 25 between Hegins and Newtown, Route 895 between Auburn and Summit Station, and Route 443 between Tamaqua and Lehighton. The road work may cause some slowdowns, as there will be lane restrictions and flaggers. The work is scheduled to continue through Friday December 2.

TODAY'S NEWS MON. NOVEMBER 28, 2011

CRESSONA TEXTILE WASTE VICTIM OF ANOTHER FIRE

Having already weathered two major fires within the last few years, Cressona Textile Waste was hit by another blaze on Saturday. The alarm sounded in Cressona and Schuylkill Haven at 6:24 p.m. for a fire at the corner of Front and Railroad Streets in Cressona. Firefighters arrived on scene quickly, and being the first chief officer to arrive, Schuylkill Hose Co. #2 Fire Chief Jim Reed assumed command. He told WPPA news what he found when he got there:

REED FINDINGS

Multiple alarms went out for help, including several tankers that were used to supplement the municipal water system. Chief Reed had to control a large number of firefighters and apparatus:

REED NUMBER OF FF

The building began to collapse by 7:20 p.m., and once the fire was knocked down, heavy equipment arrived to begin tearing the large bundles of cloth apart so hot spots could be extinguished. The State police Fire Marshall was called to the scene to try to determine a cause for the blaze, and was expected to arrive Sunday afternoon. Chief Reed summed up the response by local volunteers:

REED SUMMARY

BUFFET HOUSE RESTAURANT DESTROYED BY FIRE

While firefighters were still busy fighting a commercial fire in the Borough of Cressona, a call came in for another fire. The report said that the Buffet House restaurant in North Manheim Township had a fire in the basement. When firefighters from Pottsville arrived on scene, they entered the basement to attack the fire, but had a difficult time navigating through the area. Schuylkill Communications Center relayed a message that there was a second basement in the building, and the crew on the first floor said the floor was weakening, so it was decided to abandon the interior attack and fight the fire from outside. The fire moved through the building quickly, despite the best efforts of fire companies from Pottsville, Orwigsburg, Landingville, Port Carbon, and Schuylkill Haven. The cause of the fire is undetermined, and the building is a total loss.

TRIAL SET TO BEGIN TODAY FOR DAMON ENNETT

Damon Ennett is charged with participating in the murder of Bruce Forker, and today he will go to trial facing a long list of charges that could put him in prison for the rest of his life. Ennett is one of three men who were charged in the case. One of those men has pleaded guilty to third degree murder, and the other was found not guilty of all charges against him. Police accuse Ennett of waiting outside Forker's home in the getaway car while the murder was committed. Sherriff Joseph Groody is making arrangements for extra security at the court house and inside the courtroom during Ennett's trial, including metal detectors and Sherriff's Deputies.

RIFLE DEER SEASON OPENS TODAY

Pennsylvania's rifle deer season opens today, and that means three quarters of a million people will be taking to the woods in pursuit of whitetailed deer. During the 2010 season, hunters harvested over 120,000 deer, which the Game Commission said was a normal harvest. Because of the number of people in the woods, drivers should be alert for cars and trucks parked along roadways, and watch for deer crossing roads at times and places where they are not usually seen

Today's News - Saturday, November 26th, 2011

High School Football Scoreboard

Class AA

Mount Carmel 28, Bloomsburg 0

West Catholic 28, Springfield Township 7

Lancaster Catholic 21, Wyomissing 14

Pen Argyl 50, GAR 20

Class A

Southern Columbia 45, Old Forge 34

Calvary Christian vs. Pius X, 1 p.m. Salisbury High School

Class AAA

Shamokin 27, Clearfield 26, OT

Allentown Central Catholic 61, Valley View 54

Bishop McDevitt 42, Red Land 7

Lampeter Strasburg 24, West York 13

LOCAL NEWS

State police at Schuylkill Haven are investigating a criminal mischief incident that occurred at 215 East Second Mountain Road in North Manheim Township between 4 and 6 p.m. Thursday. Police said Arthur H. Heffner reported someone smashed his mailbox with a blunt object and fled the scene. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 570-593-2000.

A man suspected of breaking into at least 70 RVs and campers at a campground near Zion Grove, tells police he's been wandering for more than a year and didn't even know what state he was in. State police are still trying to determine the identity of the man they arrested Saturday in the break-ins at Red Ridge Lake Campground. Investigators say the man they took into custody initially gave a fake name but admitted breaking into the campers looking for food and liquor. Police say the man they're calling John Doe was staying at the Pocono Mountains campground in Schuylkill County. He's being held on $25,000 bail.

A Frackville man will have to answer to charges of harassment following a fight outside a West Mahanoy Township establishment. Joseph McTiernan was cited by State Police after punching Joshua Hoffman of the Bronx while he was leaving Jimmy O’s Sports Bar around 2 a.m. Thanksgiving morning. No reason was given for the scuffle, but State Police at Frackville are looking for more information if you have any please call them at 874-5300.

STATE NEWS

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - An attorney for one of three American students arrested during a protest in Cairo says they've been released and are on their way home. Philadelphia lawyer Theodore Simon represents 19-year-old Drexel University student Gregory Porter of Glenside, Pennsylvania. The students were arrested Sunday on the roof of a university building after officials accused them of throwing firebombs at Egyptian security forces fighting with protesters.

PITTSBURGH (AP) - Lawyers say a charity founded by a former Penn State assistant football coach accused of molesting boys shouldn't be allowed to dissolve its assets. They want The Second Mile charity to continue operating so they can file future civil lawsuits on behalf of accusers. Their lawsuit, filed this week on behalf of someone who claims to be a victim of Jerry Sandusky, seeks an injunction against The Second Mile.

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - Court documents say a McAdoo man has acknowledged making harassing phone calls to Sarah Palin's lawyers after his son made a similar admission. Craig Christy reached a plea agreement with federal prosecutors that prohibits him from contacting Palin and certain members of her household under a protective order issued in May. Both Christy and his son are expected in court Monday to change their pleas.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) - Occupy Harrisburg says a member of its group has been arrested at a city mall on Black Friday over a zombie outfit. Lower Allen Township police said a young woman was arrested after refusing mall security's request to remove the facial makeup. The Capital City Mall bans outfits that obscure a
person's face.

NATIONAL NEWS

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) - It's the size of a car and if all goes well, NASA's Curiosity rover will be riding a little like one on the surface of Mars in a little over 8 months. The weather looks acceptable for this morning's scheduled launch of the six-wheeled, one-armed explorer.

WASHINGTON (AP) - Democrats are crafting a 2012 campaign strategy for Vice President Joe Biden that targets the big three political battlegrounds: Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Florida. President Barack Obama sometimes struggles to connect with white working-class voters in Ohio and Pennsylvania and with Jewish
voters in Florida. Biden has built deep ties to both groups.

NEW YORK (AP) - Lawyers for NBA owners and players get back to work today on the details of a tentative agreement that would end a 149-day lockout. The deal, which will also need ratification by both sides, envisions a 66-game season starting Christmas day.

CANBERRA, Australia (AP) - Rupert Murdoch's eldest son says a former Australian Senator made up the story that he was involved in offering the ex-lawmaker favorable news coverage in exchange for a no vote on legislation. Former Sen. Bill O'Chee alleges that Lachlan Murdoch was there during crucial parts of the discussion.

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - Search and rescue teams have rushed to the scene of a bridge collapse in central Indonesia. Police say at least three people died and scores were injured when the busy bridge fell today. Police say many cars and trucks were on the 10-year-old concrete bridge.

TODAY'S NEWS WED. NOVEMBER 23, 2011

LOCAL NEWS WED. NOVEMBER 23, 2011

HIDDEN CHEMICALS FOUND IN HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS

There's a dirty secret lurking in common household cleaning products. That's according to new independent lab testing on twenty popular products that found nearly all contained undisclosed toxic chemicals. Alexandra Scranton with Women's Voices for the Earth says consumers deserve to know what chemicals they're being exposed to, so they can avoid products that may cause allergic reactions or serious long-term health problems like cancer, birth defects, or pregnancy complications.

CHEMICALS

PINE GROVE FISH & GAME ROBBED BY TREASURER

Schuylkill Haven State Police have arrested 37 year-old Stacy Kassab of Pine Grove on charges related to the misappropriation of over two hundred thousand dollars. According to the police report, Kassab has admitted to stealing $211,526 from the Pine Grove Fish & Game Protective Association while she was serving as its treasurer. She failed to make deposits of money that she received on behalf of the club, and used the money for personal expenses and gambling. Kassab was arraigned before Magisterial District Justice Carol Pankake of Tremont on felony charges of receiving stolen property and theft by failure to make required disposition of funds received. She is free after posting ten percent of $25,000 bail.

POTTSVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDS TO OIL SPILL

The Pottsville Fire Department was dispatched to a report of spilled oil just after 2:00 p.m. Tuesday. When they arrived on scene on Mahantongo Street they found a home heating oil truck from Jack Rich & Keller Oil that had lost approximately fifteen gallons of oil. The driver reported that he was travelling from a delivery on Oak Road to a delivery on Howard Avenue when the hose came off the back of the truck and wrapped around the wheel of a passing car. By the time he realized what had happened, oil was spilling from the truck and the hose onto the roadway. The fire department began cleanup of the spill until they were relieved by a spill response crew from Jack Rich. Cleanup was completed with no oil reaching the storm drain system. No charges have been filed against the driver.

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN MAN FACES TRIAL AFTER SALE OF GRAVE MARKERS

Samuel T. Steffie, of Schuylkill Haven, has been charged with receiving stolen property and prohibited sale of veterans' markers after State Police at the Schuylkill Haven barracks arrested him for selling sixteen grave markers at U.S.S. Achey scrap yard. Steffie was scheduled for a hearing before Magesterial District Judge James Ferrier on Tuesday, but waived his right to the hearing and will face the charges in court. State Police charged Steffie after surveillance video and sale records indicated that he took the grave markers to the scrap dealer on July 11, 2011 and sold them as scrap. The value of the markers is $720.00, and they are the property of the Schuylkill County Department of Veterans Affairs. Steffie was remanded to Schuylkill County prison on $2,500.00 bail.

Local News-Tuesday, Nobember 22, 2011

Over Ten Percent of Schuylkill County Income From Social Security

According to a report published by Bill Bishop and Robert Gallardo in the Daily Yonder, if Schuylkill County residents didn’t receive their monthly payments from the Social Security Administration, ten point one percent of total income in the county would be lost. The people of Schuylkill County are more reliant on Social Security payments than any county in the rest of the nation. Nationally, 5.5 percent of total personal income comes from Social Security, in Pennsylvania the total is 6.7 percent, still well below Schuylkill County’s 10.1 percent. There are 36,700 people receiving benefits in the county. Old age pensions account for 67.8 percent of the total, while 13 percent collect survivor benefits, and 19.2 percent collect disability. That comes to about 25 percent of the population, with each collecting an average of almost three thousand two hundred dollars.

Schuylkill Haven Man Admits to Sexual Assault

Joseph Curry of Schuylkill Haven, went before Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin on Monday and admitted that he committed multiple sexual acts with a boy who was between the ages of four and eight. Curry pled guilty but mentally ill to counts of aggravated indecent assault, endangering the welfare of children, statutory sexual assault, indecent assault, corruption of minors, and indecent exposure. Other charges against Curry were dropped. Judge Dolbin ordered Curry to be examined by the Sexual Offenders Assessment Board prior to sentencing to determine if he is a sexually violent predator or a sexual offender. Regardless of the outcome of the examination, Curry will be subject to lifetime Megan’s Law sanctions.

Salvation Army In Full Swing

Jay Levan reports on the busy days underway at the Pottsville Salvation Army.

Salvation Army Thanksgiving

Haven Students To Perform In The Nation's Oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade. Jay Levan has the story.

Haven Parade

Pottsville Zoning Board Okays Plans for Elderly Apartments

Barefield Development Corporation received clearance from the Pottsville Zoning Hearing Board on Monday to proceed with their plans for a 3.2 million dollar project to renovate the former Alpha Mills building on Ninth Street. The plans include renovating the building to make eleven apartments that will be rented to elderly residents. The next step in the process is getting approval from the Pottsville Planning Commission, then funding for the project must be secured. When all hurdles are cleared, Barefield estimates that it will take six months to renovate the building to make it ready for occupancy.

Local News-Monday, November 21, 2011

SCHUYLKILL TECHNOLOGY CENTER STUDENTS BUILD POLICE STATION

The Borough of Ashland needed a new police station, and the students at the Schuylkill Technology Center needed hands-on experience at their trades, so an agreement was reached to help both parties. Ashland decided to move the police station from its current location at Fifteenth and Walnut Streets to the lower level of the building that houses Borough Hall and the Anthracite Museum. Estimated renovation costs came in at two hundred twenty five thousand dollars, and council went looking for a way to save money. That's when the students from the Technology Centers stepped up and offered their services. Students are currently working on the interior framing for office space, and will also complete plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and concrete work on the project, saving the borough over half the cost of the renovations.

D.H.H. LENGEL MIDDLE SCHOOL LAUNCHES ANTI-BULLYING PROGRAM

Bullying of students by their peers is a high priority problem nationally and the administration at D.H.H. Lengel Middle School has decided to take steps to reduce it. The school has received a six thousand dollar grant to launch the Olweus Bullying Prevention program in the school. The first thing they did was conduct a survey of students to find out how many of them are experiencing bullying. Next came training for the school staff, and the establishment of a Bullying Prevention Coordinating Committee that will lead the implementation of the program in the school. The long term goal is to reduce the occurrence of student bullying and provide a better atmosphere for learning.

LOCAL THREE YEAR OLD WITH BRAIN TUMOR LOSES HIS FIGHT

Espn Murphy, the three year old from Pottsville who fought a brave battle with a Grade IV brain tumor for the last year, has lost his fight. He passed away on Sunday, according to his family. Espn travelled to the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Memphis many times for treatment since early in 2010 for experimental chemotherapy. There have been many fund raising events and support groups in the area to help Espn and his family cope with his tumor and treatments, and seven thousand people have signed in on Espn's Facebook page called "Arms Around Espn."



MAN BREAKS IN TO SEVENTY CAMPERS IN NORTH UNION TOWNSHIP

A man identified only as John Doe broke in to approximately seventy campers at Red Ridge Lake Campgrounds in North Union Township on Friday. He is accused of forcibly entering the campers and removing items from them. Police were called, and found the suspect sleeping in one of the campers he had broken into. When he was arrested, he provided identification that police could not verify, so he was arraigned as a John Doe. He is charged with burglary, criminal trespass, theft, receiving stolen property, and criminal mischief, and is in Schuylkill County Prison on twenty five thousand dollars bail. Police are attempting to establish his identity at this time.

ROUTE 309 PROJECT IN TAMAQUA FINISHED ON TIME

According to a press release received from PennDOT, the railroad grade replacement in Tamaqua was completed on schedule. Ronald J. Young, Jr., District Press Officer for PennDOT Engineering District Five said that Route 309 through Tamaqua was reopened to traffic by ten o'clock Sunday night. The grade replacement was completed by PennDOT and the Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad, and is part of a three phase project to replace the bridge over the Little Schuylkill River in South Tamaqua.

District 11 Class A Championship

Pius X 50
Shenandoah Valley 12

Today's News - Saturday, November 19th, 2011

LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL WEEK 12

DISTRICT 11 AAA

ALLENTOWN CENTRAL CATHOLIC 49
POTTSVILLE 7

EASTERN CONFERENCE CLASS A

MAHANOY AREA 47
NATIVITY 0

EASTERN CONFERENCE CLASS 11

NORTH PENN 34
TAMAQUA 28 OT

DISTRICT 4 AA

SHAMOKIN 21
MILTON 20

DISTRICT 4 AA

MT CARMEL 19
LEWISBURG 13

DISTRICT 4 A

SOUTHERN COLUMBIA 35
LINE MOUNTAIN 14

LOCAL NEWS

The former head of the now-closed Rape and Victim Assistance Center of Schuylkill County admitted Thursday in federal court that she stole about $100,000 from the agency. According to the Republican Herald, Mary Beth Semerod of Pottsville, pleaded guilty in Scranton to theft from a program receiving federal funds. Senior U.S. District Judge Edwin M. Kosik accepted Semerod's plea but did not immediately schedule her sentencing. Semerod could be sentenced to spend as long as 10 years in prison, plus an additional three years on supervised release after any imprisonment, and pay a fine of up to $250,000. Semerod, who served as the center's executive director from its opening in 1983 until she was fired in December 2008, admitted taking the money between June 2006 and June 2008. A federal grand jury in Scranton indicted Semerod on Oct. 26, 2010, alleging she took about $100,000 in checks from the center and converted them to her own use.

The brother of a man who was fatally shot in March 2010 in Shenandoah spent about an hour in prison on Friday before deciding he would testify in Schuylkill County Court at a pretrial hearing for a man charged with participating in the killing. As reported in the Republican Herald, Nathan Forker sat in a county prison cell from about 2:30 p.m. until about 3:30 p.m. under the order of Judge Jacqueline L. Russell, who was presiding over the hearing for Damon L. Ennett of Freeland. After changing his mind, Forker returned to Russell's courtroom in handcuffs and a prison jumpsuit to tell what he knew of the early morning hours of March 16, 2010, when Bruce Lee Forker, 24, was gunned down in his 333 E. Centre St. home. Russell allowed Forker to go free after he testified.

Pine Grove police arrested a Minersville man for violating a protection from abuse order while being out on bail on attempted criminal homicide charges. Police said Todd Gibson, 468 North St., was arraigned Thursday by Magisterial District Judge Carol A. Pankake, Tremont, on a charge of indirect criminal contempt. He is also awaiting charges of terroristic threats and harassment, police said. Pankake set bail at 10 percent of $10,000 and committed Gibson to Schuylkill County Prison when he was able to post the required $1,000. Police said Gibson was taken into custody on a warrant by Minersville police. The warrant charges Gibson with violating the PFA filed by Elizabeth Gibson. Elizabeth Gibson, Bobby Jo Hoffman and Russell Lymaster are the victims of the other charges, police said. Gibson was arrested in July after he allegedly stabbed a Schuylkill Haven man in the chest during an argument in Pine Grove.

STATE NEWS

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) - Former Penn State coach Joe Paterno has a treatable form of lung cancer. Paterno's son, Scott, says in a statement provided to the AP by a family representative that his 84-year-old father is undergoing treatment and that "his doctors are optimistic he will make a full recovery."

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Police have arrested about a dozen members of the Occupy Philadelphia movement who were protesting at a bank downtown. The protesters refused to leave the Wells Fargo branch last night and were arrested peacefully. About two dozen members of Occupy Philadelphia were arrested on Thursday during a protest on
the Market Street bridge.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - An elderly Philadelphia cardinal won't have to testify at the trial of a monsignor accused of covering up alleged sexual abuse by priests, but will probably give a videotaped deposition later this month. A judge says she expects to find 88-year-old retired Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua competent to be deposed at home before the trial of his former secretary for clergy.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - The new president of a charity founded by a former Penn State assistant football coach accused of molesting boys says the organization is looking at three options for its future and may not close. David Woodles told The Harrisburg
Patriot-News that since he became president of The Second Mile this week it's looking at whether it will continue its broad array of programs to help children, transfer them to another charity or close.

NATIONAL NEWS

UNDATED (AP) - President Barack Obama is pointing to a deal between Boeing and Indonesia's Lion Air is an example of progress in opening markets and boosting exports to create U.S. jobs. In his weekly media message, Obama says it's another important part of building a strong, lasting economy. Pennsylvania Sen. Pat Toomey
used the Republican message to continue criticism of the administration for failed stimulus programs, overspending and overtaxing.

BALI, Indonesia (AP) - A White House official says President Barack Obama stressed the importance of China adjusting the value of its currency in a meeting with the Chinese premier today. The U.S. feels it's undervalued, hindering trade. The two men also discussed China's claims to the South China Sea and Beijing's response was called constructive.

TRIPOLI, Libya (AP) - A Libyan militia commander says a son of Moammar Gadhafi has been captured while trying to slip into neighboring Niger. The commander told a news conference that Seif al-Islam was captured in southern Libya along with two aides.

CAIRO (AP) - Egypt's riot police are dismantling tents and arresting hold-out activists as they clear out protesters from central Cairo's Tahrir Square. Scuffles broke out today between the police and a small number of protesters, who had spent the night following massive demonstrations the day before.

LOS ANGELES (AP) - Natalie Wood's sister says she doesn't believe what happened was deliberate, but also says she doesn't think the actress simply fell from a boat into the sea off Southern California nearly 30 years ago. Lana Wood tells CNN's Piers Morgan in an interview that the boat's captain told her that Natalie Wood's husband Robert Wagner was involved. The investigation has been reopened.

Local News-Friday, November 18, 2011

CREWS RESPOND TO WATER MAIN BREAK IN CRESSONA

There was a water main break on South Sillyman Street in Cressona last night, and crews spent the night repairing it. According to Cressona Fire Police Captain Mike Kramer, a call came in around ten thirty Thursday night for water on the road. He said that the water was shooting out of the ground like a fountain when he arrived on scene, and a call was put in to the Schuylkill Haven Borough Water Department. Water and Sewer Department Foreman Richard Croneberger and his crew spent the night digging up the broken pipe and repairing the leak. Work was wrapping up at four o’'lock this morning, and Sillyman Street was reopened to traffic in time for the morning drive to work. While residents may experience air and sediment in their water today, Croneberger said it is not necessary to boil the drinking water.

SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGERS READY TO HIT THE STREETS

The Pottsville Corps of the Salvation Army has set their sights on a lofty goal this year. After they exceeded their seventy thousand dollar goal in 2010, they decided to raise this year's target to seventy five thousand. In pursuit of that, the red kettles will be making their first appearance of the season today. Twenty volunteers will be ringing their bells at many locations throughout Schuylkill County from now until Christmas Eve, hoping to help as many people in the area as possible. According to the Salvation Army, the kettle campaign began in 1891 in San Francisco, and spread across the country from there to the point where today they provide assistance to over four point five million people during the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons.

TURKEY PRICES WILL BE HIGHER THIS YEAR

As you make final preparations for your Thanksgiving dinner, you may find that it will cost you more. Jay Levan has more.

TURKEY STORY

BEAR SEASON IS HERE, BUT CAN YOU GET TO YOU FAVORITE HUNTING SPOT?

The hunting season begins in earnest on Saturday for black bear in Pennsylvania. Better check that you can get to your favorite hunting spot. Jay Levan has the story.

BEAR STORY

Local News-Thursday, November 17, 2011

NO TAX INCREASE IN PRELIMINARY COUNTY BUDGET

The Schuylkill County Commissioners had a look at the preliminary budget for 2012 during their work session meeting on Wednesday. The projected income for the upcoming year should be over forty five million dollars, while expenses are expected to outpace income by two point six million dollars. The county has a reserve fund that can be used to cover the deficit, so it appears that there will be no tax increase at the county level next year. This continues an eight year run with no tax increase for Schuylkill County residents, as the Commissioners promised when they took office. The county has used job combinations, a hiring freeze, the use of outside contractors, and cost cutting strategies to help reduce expenses, and it has allowed the county to maintain the existing tax levels. Final approval of the 2012 budget is scheduled for the December 21 meeting.

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN LIBRARY ACCEPTING CANNED GOODS IN LIEU OF FINES

If anyone has overdue books or tapes from the Schuylkill Haven Free Public Library, a visit to the pantry can help ease the cost of their fines. According to a story in today’s Republican Herald, the library will knock one dollar off the fine for each non-perishable food item brought in. Library Director Lynette Moyer says that patrons currently owe "a couple thousand dollars" in fines from the last seven years, and with the difficult economy, the library decided to offer an alternative way to pay them off. Moyer said that several people have brought in donations of food who don't even owe fines for overdue books. The food-for-fines program will continue until November 22, and all food collected will be given to the Salvation Army in Pottsville.

FORMER WORKER AT SPA 61 ADMITS TO PROSTITUTION

A woman from Berks County who was arrested on charges of prostitution while she worked at Spa 61 in North Manheim Township has pled guilty to criminal solicitation in Schuylkill County court. Tara Schmehl, of Mount Penn, went before Judge William E. Baldwin on Wednesday and voluntarily entered a guilty plea. She will spend six months on probation as well as paying fines and costs. There were four other women charged with crimes related to prostitution after Spa 61 and Aroma Spa were closed by State Police. Maria Fontanez, of Reading, has pled guilty to a charge of promoting prostitution, Sunja Song, from New York, is in the Accelerated Rehabilitative Program, and two others are still awaiting court action on similar charges.

THREE VEHICLE CRASH ON GORDON NAGLE TRAIL

State Police responded to a three vehicle crash on the Gordon Nagle Trail Wednesday morning at about seven a.m. According to the police report, a vehicle operated by Amanda Valukevich of Pottsville was stopped in the eastbound lane of Route 901 waiting for another vehicle to turn left onto Cressona Road. A second vehicle driven by Sean Bachert, also from Pottsville, approached from behind and was unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. Bachert’s car sideswiped Valukevich’s car, then swerved into the oncoming lane of travel where he hit a third vehicle that was driven by Jesse Freeman of Schuylkill Haven. Freeman’s pickup then struck the guardrails before coming to rest. Bachert and Freeman’s vehicles were towed from the scene. There were no injuries reported to any of those involved. State Police were assisted at the scene by Cressona and Schuylkill Haven Fire Police.

Local News-Wednesday, November 16, 2011

PERSON OF INTEREST ATTEMPTS ESCAPE FROM POLICE

Edward Miller, whom police have labeled a person of interest in the death of John Tranquillo, kicked out the rear window of a police cruiser on Tuesday in an attempt to escape. Miller was returned to Pottsville after his arrest in Montgomery County, and was on his way to the courthouse for arraignment on charges stemming from an assault on William Kline that happened on Sunday. Although Miller has not been charged in relation to the death of Tranquillo, police are continuing their investigation into the connection between the two men. Miller is in Schuylkill County prison on two hundred thousand dollars straight cash bail, and now faces additional counts of attempted escape and criminal mischief.

SCHUYLKILL COUNTY RETIREES ASK FOR COST OF LIVING INCREASE

While it has been at least five years since county retirees have seen a cost of living increase, it may be some time yet before they get larger pension payments. The county funds pensions through the Annual Retirement Contribution, which is taken from the General Fund. The amount transferred has risen steadily over the years, and stands at close to four million dollars per year, up from seven hundred thousand in 2007. While the Retirement Board, which consists of the three Commissioners, the Controller, and the Treasurer, are sympathetic with the plight of county retirees, they indicated that a cost of living increase would have to come from the reserve fund, and they are not prepared to take additional funds from the reserve at this time.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE RECOGNITION

This year, in celebration of Schuylkill County’s bicentennial celebration, Community Volunteers in Action challenged county residents to complete two hundred projects to help their neighbors. The people accepted the challenge, and at a reception held at Providence Place Retirement Community, awards were given to many groups who helped to complete two hundred forty seven projects. The groups received certificates from State Representative Mike Tobash, U.S. Representative Tim Holden, and the Schuylkill County Commissioners. All were challenged to continue their good work on behalf of their neighbors, and many indicated that they are already completing new projects that will be counted for next year.

POTTSVILLE LIONS CLUB PRESENTS CHECKS TO CHARITIES

On Tuesday afternoon, representatives of the Pottsville Lions Club met with several local charities and sponsors to present their annual donations. The total amount donated this year was eight thousand dollars, which represents the proceeds from the 2011 Great Pottsville Cruise. Jerry Enders expressed his gratitude to all those who helped in the effort.

“JERRY ENDERS”

Local News-Tuesday, November 15, 2011

POTTSVILLE POLICE DISCOVER VICTIM OF HOMICIDE

Acting on information received from Montgomery County State Police, Pottsville Police officers went to the home of John Tranquillo at 411 Laurel Boulevard, where they discovered his dead body. Skippack police made a traffic stop on a truck driven by Edward Miller, who resides at 237 Pierce Street, and they discovered that the truck belonged to Tranquillo. This aroused suspicion, and the State Police called Pottsville police to notify them. When officers went to Tranquillo's residence they found his body. An autopsy is scheduled for today, but police determined that Tranquillo was the victim of homicide. Edward Miller has not been charged in relation to the homicide, but he is in Schuylkill County prison on charges related to a robbery he allegedly committed on Sunday. On that day Miller robbed William Kline and stole his car. The investigation of both crimes is continuing.

ROBBERY IN POTTSVILLE LEADS TO ARREST OF READING MAN

A Pottsville woman was robbed of about fifty dollars in cash by a man wielding a handgun. The victim said she was walking on Sanderson Street when she was approached by a man who pointed a handgun at her and demanded money. She was able to determine where the man went after robbing her, and called police. When Pottsville police arrived they found 21 year-old Rasheem Shabazz Allah Smalls, who resides in Reading, at the apartment at 589 Laurel Terrace. Smalls was found to be in possession of a loaded 22 caliber handgun, ammunition, seventeen bags of crack cocaine, marijuana, and prescription medicine. After his arrest, Smalls was arraigned before Magisterial District Justice James Ferrier and committed to Schuylkill County Prison in lieu of one hundred thousand dollars straight cash bail on multiple charges.

BERKS COUNTY FIRM TO LEASE SPACE AT UNION STATION

At their meeting on Monday, Pottsville city council voted to lease the first floor of Union Station to QEI Construction of Wyomissing. Mike Hozella, who is the President of QEI, stated that the company will move its office from Wyomissing to occupy over thirteen hundred square feet of the first floor of Union Station, and hopes to be in business there by early 2012. He said that the space the company will occupy is unfinished at this time, and it will take several months to complete the necessary construction. Council also announced that they are very close to announcing a tenant for the second floor of Union Station, which is vacant at this time.

KNOWLES AND ARGALL ASK FOR PATIENCE IN TAMAQUA

Representative Jerry Knowles and Senator Dave Argall are asking drivers to be patient with PennDOT's plans to close Route 309 through Tamaqua while a railroad grade is replaced next weekend. Knowles said in a press release that he and Argall tried to prevent a total closure of the highway, but were told that there was no way to complete the project successfully without doing so. PennDOT was able to reduce the closure from two weekends to one. The railroad grade replacement is part of a three-phase project to replace the bridge over the Little Schuylkill River in Tamaqua. Senator Argall said that motorists should use extreme caution when travelling on Route 309 and plan for delays and detours. Both men are working closely with local officials to be sure that emergency services are not greatly affected by the road closure.

SCHUYLKILL COUNTY’S VISION ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY MEETINGS

Schuylkill County's VISION will host a series of community meetings to provide information and gain support for the development of a Community Health Center that will provide primary care to disadvantaged and low income individuals and families. These community meetings will provide an opportunity to present the progress of the Work Group for Community Health, to provide information on the possibilities and opportunities a Community Health Center might provide, and to seek support and direction from concerned citizens and health care consumers. Executive Director Kay Jones said "these public meetings are an important part of the development of the Health Center. We want the people who will be served by the center to have a say in the way it is designed to deliver healthcare." The public is invited to attend the public meetings, which will begin at seven p.m., and will be November 16 at the Terry Reiley Center in Pottsville, November 29 at the Shenandoah Senior Community Center, and November 30 at the Tamaqua Community Center.

TODAY'S NEWS MON. NOVEMBER 14, 2011

LOCAL NEWS MON. NOVEMBER 14, 2011

TAMAQUA COUNCIL AND BUSINESSES UPSET OVER ROAD CLOSURE

Tamaqua business owners and members of borough council are upset over a decision by PennDOT and the Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad to close Route 309 through the borough next weekend. The road closure will allow the railroad to replace a grade crossing as part of a bridge replacement project on the state highway. During the railroad work, Route 309 will be closed between Routes 443 and 209 starting at 7 p.m. Friday and continuing until about 5 a.m. on Monday November 21. Business owners are concerned that they will lose customers and revenue during that time, and borough council has stated that emergency services could be delayed because of the road closure.

SCHUYLKILL LITERACY COUNCIL NEEDS HELP

The Literacy Council for Schuylkill County is asking for help from anyone who is willing to work with adults who need help with the three R's. The council provides tutoring services to people over seventeen who need assistance improving their skills in reading, writing, and basic math. They are in need of additional tutors, as the demand for their services is increasing. State law requires that anyone who wishes to become a tutor must have a bachelor's degree, and must complete additional training. Training sessions will be held on November 29 and December 1 between six and nine p.m. at the council's office on the second floor of the Losch Building on Progress Avenue in Pottsville. For more information, contact the Literacy Council at 570-622-9500 or 800-460-3840.

MCADOO FIREFIGHTERS WORRIED ABOUT FIRES ON MINE LAND

Firefighters at the McAdoo Fire Company have been called out to several fires that were set on abandoned coal mine land recently, and they are concerned that one of these fires could cause an underground mine fire similar to the one that burns under Centralia. The latest fire was at a former mining operation in Kline Township that is accessible only on dirt roads. While the fires have been small, and were extinguished quickly, the possibility of catching an underground coal seam on fire is a real threat. Anyone with information about these fires, or anyone noticing suspicious behavior in the area, is asked to call local law enforcement services.


STATE NEWS MON. NOVEMBER 14, 2011

PHILADELPHIA (AP) An overturned tractor trailer has closed the westbound lanes of the Schuylkill Expressway in Philadelphia. The crash happened on around 4 a.m. near the Girard Avenue exit, halting traffic to the city's western neighborhoods and suburbs. Eastbound lanes aren't affected.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter isn't saying the will evict the Occupy Philadelphia protesters outside City Hall, but he says the city's response must change. Nutter says there are "serious health and safety issues" almost daily at the encampment.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) Governor Tom Corbett says an assistant coach at Penn State who told a grand jury that he saw retired coach Jerry Sandusky molest a child didn't meet what Corbett calls "a moral obligation" to intervene. Corbett spoke yesterday on NBC's "Meet the Press."

Penny War Competition

The children of the Duncott Center location of Child Development, Inc. raised $1,241.44 in pennies for the Schuylkill United Way. Six classrooms took part in the Penny War, each with a different team name. The Snicker Sisters were the winning team, raising $327.80, and will be rewarded with a pizza party. All together, the children collected 124,144 pennies. The Schuylkill United Way would like to thank all of the children, parents, and teachers who contributed their pennies to the 2012 Campaign.

Pedestrian Struck Outside Of Red Lion

A Schuylkill Haven man was flown to Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, with major injuries after he was struck by a vehicle at 5:17 p.m. Friday in front of the Red Lion Cafe. State police at Schuylkill Haven said John Graf was crossing Route 443 after exiting the Red Lion Cafe when he walked into the path of a Chevrolet Blazer driven by Raymond Moyer of Pine Grove, which was traveling east on Route 443. Police said the SUV, which had the right of way, struck Graf with its driver side mirror. Police said Graf came to rest in the eastbound lane of Route 443, while Moyer's vehicle came to rest facing southeast. Moyer was not hurt and his vehicle sustained driver-side damage.

Orwigsburg Man Jailed On Sex Charges

A 54-year-old Orwigsburg man was jailed after being arrested and charged on outstanding warrants including involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, state police at Schuylkill Haven said. Troopers said William J. Shilbe, 2008 Village Road, was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge James R. Ferrier on the warrants and committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $50,000 straight cash bail. Troopers said a search warrant was executed at Shilbe's home as part of an ongoing investigation that turned up a large amount of Ecstasy, heroin, crack cocaine, prescription medication, marijuana and various drug paraphernalia. The warrants Shilbe was taken into custody for included one for an involuntary deviate sexual intercourse charge and the other one for simple assault and indecent assault.

Lavelle Man Injured At 901 Intersection

A 22-year-old Lavelle man was flown to a trauma center when the 1992 Chevrolet Corsica he was driving was involved in a two-vehicle collision at Route 901 and Taylorsville Road in Barry Township at 10:55 p.m. Thursday, police said. State police at Schuylkill Haven said Matthew Zweizig was driving north on Taylorsville Road when he failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a 2011 Nissan Altima being driven east on Route 901 by John Morrow of Harrisburg. After impact, troopers said the Zweizig car rolled across the westbound lane of Route 901 and came to a stop on the north berm while the Morrow car stopped in the northbound lane of Taylorsville Road. Zweizig was taken to Lavelle Church of the Nazerene by Ashland EMS and flown to Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, with moderate injuries. Morrow and his passenger, Nicholas Seedor, also of Harrisburg, were not hurt, troopers said.

Minersville Man Arrested After Dealing to Undercover Officer

Benjamin J. Honaker was arraigned on charges of two felony counts of delivery of a controlled substance, two misdemeanor counts of possession of a controlled substance and one misdemeanor count each of misbranding a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Minersville Patrolman Jeffrey Bowers said the charges against Honaker stem from an investigation into the sales of narcotics that led to information about 6 p.m. Thursday that the man was selling marijuana and Oxycodone pills About 6:50 p.m., Patrolman Jason Klouser, in plain clothes, met Honaker in the 300 block of Newcastle Street with the intention of buying the drugs. The suspected marijuana tested positive for the drug and Bowers said a subsequent search of Honaker's apartment uncovered a glass smoking pipe and a professional digital scale in a bedroom. Honaker was committed to Schuylkill County Prison in lieu of $10,000 straight cash bail set by on-call Magisterial District Judge Stephen P. Bayer, Tamaqua.

New Ringgold Man Headed To Prison For Indecent Assault

A New Ringgold man is headed to prison, and will be subject to 10 years of Megan's Law sanctions after he leaves, after being sentenced Thursday in Schuylkill County Court for indecently assaulting a woman in November 2010 in Mahanoy City. Lee F. Dermo, 26, did not react as Judge John E. Domalakes ordered him to spend six to 23 months in prison for the assault. Domalakes also sentenced Dermo to pay costs and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account, have no contact with the victim and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Domalakes made the sentence effective at noon Monday. Additionally, Domalakes imposed 10 years of Megan's Law sanctions on Dermo, ruling that the defendant was not a sexually violent predator and, therefore, not subject to lifetime sanctions.

Today's News: Friday, November 11, 2011

Veterans Day

Today, the 11th day of the 11th month, we pause to pay honor to all veterans who have served our country, in war and in peactime. The significance of the date came about as a result of the signing of the Armistice ending World War One in 1918. It became known as a holiday in this country in 1926. And on June 1st, 1954 the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all US Veterans. The government continued to tinker with the commemoration to the fourth Monday in October in 1968, then back to the actual day in 1978 by an act of Congress. There are a number of observances being held locally today, including at the County Vietnam Veterans Memorial at First UCC in Schuylkill Haven at Noon today. Please take a moment to remember those who have, and continue to protect our freedoms!

Law Enforcement Officers honored

Forty-nine Pennsylvania State police troopers are among 66 law enforcement officers to be honored by a statewide association for their efforts to combat drinking and driving in our state. The Pennsylvania Driving Under the Influence Association was founded to reduce deaths and injuries resulting from DUI. On Wednesday they held their annual meeting in Lancaster to honor these recipients.

Boil Water Advisory lifted

The Boil Water Advisory for all Pine Grove Water Customers has been lifted. The Pine Grove Borough Water Department appreciates your patients. If you have any questions, please contact Pine Grove Borough at 345-3555.

County Commissioners Offer Congratulations to New Members

During their meeting on Thursday, the Schuylkill County Commissioners offered their congratulations to the newly elected commissioners, and said a fond farewell to those county office holders who were unsuccessful in the bids for reelection. Frank Staudenmeier is the only member of the Board of Commissioners who will remain in office for another term, as Mantura Gallagher and frank McAndrew chose not to seek another four years. Staudenmeier will become a majority commissioner after fellow Republican George Halcovage is sworn into office. They will be joined by Democrat Gary Hess as all three strive to take Schuylkill County into the future. In other business the commissioners approved a proclamation declaring the week of November sixth through the twelfth as :Schuylkill County Farm/City Week”. The proclamation states that farms and cities will be partners in economic progress to ensure a better quality of life for future generations.

Shenandoah Man Going to Court After Alleged Break-In

A fifty three year old Shenandoah man who was found living in the woods has had charges against him held over to court after a preliminary hearing on Thursday. Mark Tutko is charged with stalking, loitering and prowling at night, and a summary charge of harassment after he allegedly broke into the home of Barbara Bisco and woke her by caressing her leg while she slept. After the break-in, Tutko fled into the woods, where he was captured by police one month later. After the hearing, Tutko was returned to Schuylkill County prison, where he is being held on thirty-five thousand dollars bail.

Graffiti Of War Exhibit Opens Today In Pottsville

In honor of veterans everywhere, an exhibit titled Graffiti of War will open today in Pottsville. The gallery is a showcase for about one hundred fifty pieces of art created by soldiers in the war zones of the Middle East. This is the first stop on what will become a nationwide tour for Graffiti of War, and it is presented by Block of Art and Schuylkill County VISION. Atrwork will be displayed at seven locations throughout the city, including the BOA Gallery at 205 West Market Street, the Schuylkill County Historical Society on Centre Street, Studio L Photography, Sage Coffeehouse & Tea Garden, the All American Café, and two locations next door to the BOA Gallery. The exhibit was made possible through the sponsorship of M&T Bank, Partridge House Bed & Breakfast, and Schaeffer’s Harley Davidson.

State News:


STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) - Governor Tom Corbett says he supported
actions by Penn State's trustees to force out football coach Joe
Paterno and university President Graham Spanier (SPAN'-yer), saying
he'd lost confidence in their ability to lead. Corbett made the
comments yesterday after a second day of private meetings by Penn
State trustees amid an unfolding child sex abuse scandal involving
the school.

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) - The new interim president of Penn
State says this is one of the saddest weeks in university history.
Rodney Erickson released a statement yesterday saying he will do
his best to confront the challenges facing the school in the wake
of a child sex-abuse scandal. University trustees fired previous
President Graham Spanier (SPAN'-yer) on Wednesday.

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) - Penn State says assistant coach Mike
McQueary won't coach the Nittany Lions on Saturday because
"multiple threats" have been made against him. The university
released a statement last night saying it would be "in the best
interest of all" if the receivers coach didn't attend the game
against Nebraska at Beaver Stadium.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - A long-powerful Pennsylvania senator has
been re-sentenced to 61 months in prison in a sprawling corruption
case, up from 55 months. Vincent Fumo was convicted of defrauding
the state Senate, a neighborhood nonprofit and museum of millions.
The Philadelphia Democrat faced about 20 years under federal
guidelines at his 2009 sentencing, but a judge initially sentenced
Fumo to 4 1/2 years.

National News:


WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama is heading off to Asia
today on a 9-day trip that will include two summits with officials
from a region the administration views as a rising voice in world
economic and political affairs. Obama is trying to deepen America's
relationship with Asia, eyeing jobs and security interests back
home.

DETROIT (AP) - A 24-hour Christian rally starts tonight in
Detroit -- home to one of the largest Muslim communities outside
the Middle East. The Christian group says one of the problems
facing the U.S. is "terrorism that has its roots in Islam." Local
organizer Ellis Smith of Detroit's Jubilee City Church says the
event is not anti-Muslim.

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (AP) - Supporters of Republican Herman Cain
seemed undeterred by the furor of the sexual harassment allegations
against him as the candidate stumped in Michigan. Cain's first
foray among voters since the allegations drew large and
enthusiastic crowds.

MIAMI (AP) - A tropical storm warning remains in effect for
Bermuda, which is expected to see 1 to 3 inches of rainfall from
Tropical Storm Sean. The storm has weakened and is expected to be
absorbed by a frontal system tonight or tomorrow. Ocean swells are
affecting the southeastern U.S. coast with life-threatening surf
and rip currents.

VAN, Turkey (AP) - The recovery of another body in one of two
collapsed hotels in eastern Turkey brings the death toll from
Wednesday's magnitude 5.6 earthquake to 13. The hotels, apparently
weakened by last month's magnitude-7.2 earthquake, came down during
Wednesday night's temblor. The October quake killed more than 600
people.

Today's News-Thursday,November 10, 2011

Final Vote Count Changes Due to Absentees and Errors

The final election results for Schuylkill County looked different than the unofficial results posted immediately after the polls closed on Tuesday. Election Bureau Director Frannie Brennan said the numbers varied due to absentee ballots, and errors made by voters at the polls. The only election result that was affected was in Mahanoy City, where Robert J. Lewis defeated Larry Levy, Jr. after the final votes were counted. Many voters mistakenly cast ballots for three candidates for Commissioner instead of two. The instructions on the ballot directed voters to vote for no more than two, but it appears a large number of people cast votes for three. Those ballots have been declared invalid.

Shenandoah Man's Conviction Upheld

A man convicted on drug-related charges in 2009 has lost his appeal to have the conviction overturned. Kenneth Petusky claimed that there was insufficient evidence to support his conviction, but the three judge Superior Court panel rejected all his claims, and supported the actions of Judge William E. Baldwin and the jury which convicted Petuskey on June 1, 2009. As a result of this decision, Petusky must serve eight to sixteen years in a state correctional institution.

Strip Mine Cabaret Shuttered in Zoning Dispute

Action by a Schuylkill County judge yesterday has shuttered an adult entertainment business near Pine Grove. The Strip Mine Cabaret, owned by Dutchmen MX Park LLC, has been the subject of questions whether the property the club sits on is zoned for that purpose. Judge John Domalakes' injunction shuts the business, but allows for the owner to reapply for the variance it needs to operate that type of business from the Schuylkill County Zoning Board. The battle over Strip Mine Cabaret has been going on for several months.

Election Over, Signs Must Come Down

Now that the General Election is over, PennDOT is reminding candidates to remove their campaign signs from along state roads. According to the agency, leaving the signs in place pose several traffic risks, possible danger to animals, a nuisance to PennDOT workers when cutting the grass, and of course, against the law.

Pottsville accident damages Brok-Sel

Police were called to the Brok-Sel Market on West Market Street in Pottsville just after noon on Wednesday when Madeline C. Welsh drove her 2001 Lincoln Continental through the front window of the store. Welsh told police that her foot slipped off the brake pedal and hit the accelerator, causing the vehicle to move forward and strike the building. There was minor damage to Welsh's car, while Brok-Sel received moderate damage to one of the front windows. No charges have been filed against Welsh as a result of the accident.

Paterno and Spanier Fired at Penn State

Penn State University Board of Trustees announced the firings of President Graham Spanier and Head Football Coach Joe Paterno in the wake of the Sandusky sexual assault case. Joe Oliver reports

Texting While Driving Ban Signed into Law in PA

Don't text while driving in Pennsylvania. Its now law, as Jay Levan reports

ROME (AP) Italy is under intense pressure to prove it has the political will to act to stop the debt crisis from spreading as its borrowing rate remains well above the dangerous 7-percent mark. Passage of reforms and the resignation of Premier Silvio Berlusconi are expected Saturday. Greece's political leaders are haggling for a fourth day to appoint a caretaker prime minister.

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) Rescue workers in eastern Turkey say they have rescued 25 people from flattened buildings after another powerful earthquake. The latest two rescues came today. The 5.7 magnitude earthquake in the same area devastated last month killed at least seven people.

WASHINGTON (AP) Senate Republicans are making another move today to blunt the authority of the Environmental Protection Agency. It's also seen as a test of the Democrats' support for environmental regulations. A resolution to block new regulations aimed at curbing power plant pollution downwind requires only a simple majority to pass.

WASHINGTON (AP) One thing Senate Democrats and Republicans agree on could mean help for unemployed veterans and companies doing business with the government. The legislation also includes the first, tiny slice of President Barack Obama's jobs plan that is likely to become law. It would include tax credits for hiring disabled vets.

LOS ANGELES (AP) There was more evidence in October that the pace of bank foreclosures is increasing. Foreclosure listing firm RealtyTrac says 77,733 properties received an initial default notice last month. That's a 10 percent increase over September.

WASHINGTON (AP) Renewed worries about money have more baby boomers forgetting about retirement dreams. An Associated Press-LifeGoesStrong.com poll finds a baby boom generation planning to work into retirement years , with 73 percent planning to work past retirement, up from 67 percent this spring.

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) About 2,000 students who demonstrated in State College, Pa., in support of fired coach Joe Paterno have been dispersed by police in riot gear. Crowds toppled a television news van and at least one photographer was hit with a rock. Police used pepper spray at times.

MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) The fate of almost 450,000 lake trout and salmon in a Vermont fish hatchery is up to state and federal officials in the Connecticut River basin and New York today. The hatchery was contaminated by flooding from Tropical Storm Irene and contains invasive algae. Biologists worry that exposed fish could spread into the basin or lakes Ontario and Erie.

GENEVA (AP) A leading conservation group says three types of rhinoceros are either extinct or close to it. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has declared the Western Black Rhino of Africa officially extinct and worries about two other subspecies. The group says a quarter of all mammals are at risk of extinction.

County GOP Gains Seats in Row Offices

Commissioners

There will be a changing of majority and membership on the Schuylkill County Board of Commissioners following Tuesday's general election. In unofficial results, Incumbent Republican Commissioner Frank Staudenmeier earned another 4 year term and will be joined by fellow Republican George Halcovage and Democrat Gary Hess. They were the top three vote getters, surpassing newcomer John Plachko, Jr. Incumbents Mantura Gallagher and Francis McAndrew did not run for re-election.

Controller

The race for Schuylkill County Controller was a contentious one in this year's general election. Incumbent Independent Melinda Kantner was seeking re-election as an Independent. However, Pottsville businessman Christy Joy was the top vote getter, followed by Brad Petchulis and Melinda Kantner.

Row Offices

Two Republican county row office holders, Recorder of Deeds Matt Dudish and Treasurer Jackie McGovern were unopposed and re-elected. In other unofficial results in the race for Prothonotary, Minersville funeral director David Dutcavich has unseated incumbent P.J. Symons. For Clerk of Courts, incumbent Steve Lukach won re-election over Brad Gotschall. For Register of Wills, Theresa Santai Gaffney defeated incumbent Michael McCord. In the race for Coroner, Dr. David Moylan defeated incumbent Joseph Lipsett.

Judges

James Goodman, Schuylkill County District Attorney was unopposed in the race to replace retired Judge D. Michael Stine. Judges Charles Miller and Cyrus Palmer Dolbin were retained for another 10 year term on the bench.

District Judge

Christina Hale was elected District Judge in Tuesday's election, running unopposed. Incumbent District Judges James Reiley, James Ferrier and Stephen Bayer were all re-elected.

The results of contested municipal elections are complete, and we have the winners. These results were posted by the Schuylkill County Election Bureau, and are unofficial.

Ashland Council (4 year term): Fred J. Spieles; Raymond Walacavage; Patrick J. Cooney

Ashland Council (2 year term): Fred Spieles; Raymond Walacavage

Coaldale Council: Nancy Lorchak: Michael Doerr; Thomas Keerans, Sr.; Steve Tentylo

Frackville Council: Ronald Jordan; Charles A. Berger; Brian Dillman

Girardville Council: Joseph Catizone; Charles Marquardt; Helenanne Brennan

Mahanoy City Council: Francis Burke; Thomas Flamini; Larry Levy, Jr.; Patti Schnitzius

McAdoo Council: Mary Labert; William Slovik; John Perhonitch; Marion DeBalko

Middleport Council: Elizabeth McClure; Leo Oswald

Minersville Council: Paul Vuksta; Edward Raczka; Jennifer Beach

Port Carbon Council: Harold Herndon; A. Berneice Shirey; Raymond Steranko

Pottsville Council: James Muldowney; Michael Halcovage. Republican Kerry Ansbach trails Michael Halcovage by seven votes.

Saint Clair Council: John Houseknecht; William Dempsey; Valeria Davis; John Burke

Schuylkill Haven Council: Ruth LaScala Tucci; Roger Spotts; Mike Devlin; Carl Berger

Shenandoah Council: John Szczyglak; Robert Kulpowicz; Brian Conroy

Unofficial Election Results-121 of 125 precincts reporting

Unofficial results from today's election, with 125 precincts reporting
11pm

County Commissioner
Frank Staudenmeier (R), George Halcovage (R) and Gary Hess (D)

County Controller
Christy Joy (R)

Clerk of Courts
Steve Lukach (D)

Prothonotary
David Dutcavich (R)

Register of Wills
Theresa Santai-Gaffney (R)

Coroner
David Moylan (R)

Judge

James Goodman (D)

Judge Charles Miller and Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin won retention vote

Pottsville City Council (11 precincts reported)
James Muldowney (D) and Michael Halcovage are top vote getters. Only 7 votes separate Halcovage and challenger Kerry Ansbach (R).

TODAY'S NEWS TUE. NOV 8, 2011

LOCAL NEWS TUE. NOVEMBER 8, 2011

Pine Grove Water System May Be At Increased Risk From Microbial Contamination

The Chemical Building experienced some equipment failure and due to a water line repair all of the Pine Grove Borough Water Customers are under a Boil Water Advisory until further notice. There are conditions that could allow contamination to enter the distribution system through back-flow by back-pressure or back-siphonage. As a result, there is an increased chance that the water may contain disease-causing organisms.

GENERAL ELECTION DAY

Today is Election Day, and Schuylkill County voters will find judges, commissioners, and many other county and local officials vying for attention with their challengers on the ballot. The ads have all been run, and there is a bumper crop of campaign signs everywhere, but today is the time to decide who will represent you in office. The polls will remain open from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Weather will not play a part in this election, as sunny skies with warm temperatures are forecast all day. Exercise your rights by visiting your local polling place and casting your ballot for your chosen candidates, then check in with WPPA AM and wpparadio.com for all the results.

CANCER SOCIETY NEEDS DRIVERS ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

The American Cancer Society's Road to Recovery program provides transportation for cancer patients so they can get to and from their treatments. The Society's Schuylkill Unit is in desperate need of volunteer drivers at this time. The biggest obstacle that many cancer patients face is finding a ride to get to a hospital or doctor's office for life-saving treatments, and the Road to Recovery Program is there to provide this service for them. Drivers provide more than a ride, though. They are there to provide moral support and a sympathetic ear for the patient. These volunteer drivers use their own car to accompany patients to treatment appointments Monday through Friday mornings and afternoons. Volunteers can come from any age group, and training will be provided. If you are interested in being a volunteer driver, please contact Judy Hoppes at 888-227-5445, option 3.

NATIONWIDE EMERGENCY TEST COMING WEDNESDAY

There has never been a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, but the Federal Emergency Management Agency is ready to do just that. The alert will go out on Wednesday at 2:00 P.M. on every broadcast radio and television station, cable television, satellite radio and television services, and wireline video provider in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. The test will last thirty seconds, and will allow the federal government to determine how well the Emergency Alert System works, should there ever be a need to broadcast an alert to a large part of the country. There will be no disruption of service for cellular phone systems or the internet, though a plan is in the works to allow alerts to be sent to cell phone users.

Donations for Stephen's family

A local family of five is now homeless after their Minersville home was destroyed by fire Sunday. The Miners bank is now accepting donations for the Stephen's family who also lost their stepdaughter just 7-weeks ago. You can stop in their Minersville location anytime to donate to this family in need.

Preliminary hearing for son on charges of killing dad

A West Penn Township man testified Monday at a preliminary hearing for alleged murderer 39-year-old Franklin Stumhofer. David Osenbach, a neighbor to the victim 61-year-old Franklin Stumhofer Sr., said he heard "popping" on the afternoon of September 7. Prosecutors believe that "popping" was none other than the sound of his neighbor being fatally shot by his own son. At the end of the hearing Magisterial District Judge James Ferrier ruled that prosecutors had produced enough evidence to support each of the charges including three counts of criminal homicide. Stumhofer Jr. returned to prison and is being held without bail. He faces the possibility of a first-degree murder conviction.

State News:

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — A spokesman for a Penn State satellite campus outside Erie says a former assistant football coach accused of molesting boys ran camps there for six years after being banned from taking children onto the main campus. Penn State Behrend spokesman Bill Gonda says Jerry Sandusky held summer camps for children there after the 2002 main campus ban.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania's state police commissioner says football coach Joe Paterno and other Penn State officials didn't do enough to try to stop suspected child sexual abuse. Commissioner Frank Noonan says Paterno may have fulfilled his legal requirement to report suspected abuse by former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky. But Noonan says he questions "the moral requirements for a human being that knows of sexual things that are taking place with a child."

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania voters will elect two new appellate judges today and settle contests for thousands of local offices and judgeships. The statewide judicial contests pit Democratic Allegheny County Judge David Wecht against Republican Harrisburg lawyer Vic Stabile for a seat on Superior Court. Democrat Kathryn Boockvar and Republican Anne Covey are vying to fill an open seat on the Commonwealth Court. They're both lawyers from Bucks County.

National News:


ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Greece's two main political parties are working on a power-sharing agreement as European leaders withhold a vitally needed loan until there's a deal. In Italy, a usually routine parliamentary vote on state accounts is being seen as a measure of confidence in Premier Silvio Berlusconi (behr-loos-KOH'-nee).

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Joe Frazier's legendary left hook couldn't help him against liver cancer. The man who beat Muhammad Ali 40 years ago in the so-called Fight of the Century died last night in Philadelphia at age 67. Ali once said that the last of their three fights, in 1975, was the closest thing to dying that he knows of.

ATLANTA (AP) — Herman Cain is planning a news conference in Phoenix this afternoon to confront the latest sexual allegations against him. They come from a woman who held a news conference yesterday — the first accuser to publicly reveal her identity. Cain says all the allegations are "totally fabricated."

LUCKNOW, India (AP) — A religious ceremony in northern India has turned tragic after some Hindu pilgrims converging on the Ganges River tripped and were trampled. An official says 16 people are dead and about 50 others injured. Indian authorities often have trouble controlling the crowds at pilgrimage sites.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court hears arguments today on police use of GPS devices to track suspects. The government argues that people have no expectation of privacy concerning their travel on public streets. A drug conspiracy conviction was thrown out because police planted a GPS device on a suspect's car

TODAY'S NEWS MON. NOVEMBER 7, 2011

LOCAL NEWS MON. NOVEMBER 7, 2011

CRIMINAL ACTS REPORTED BY STATE POLICE

Pennsylvania State Police report that unknown person or persons shot an electrical transformer along the Burma Road in Blythe Township on Sunday November 6. The oil drained out of the transformer, causing it to overheat and catch fire. This resulted in loss of power to a nearby Verizon cellular tower. PPL crews responded to the scene and replaced the transformer. If you have information about this incident, please call Pennsylvania State Police Frackville barracks at 570-874-5300.

EAST NORWEGIAN TOWNSHIP FIRE COMPANY ROBBED

Sometime between November first and third, unknown person or persons entered the Independent Hose Company No. 1 in East Norwegian Township, then forced their way into the main office. Once inside, they forced open a locked drawer and removed an envelope that contained approximately six hundred fifty dollars that was raised during a fund raiser. Anyone with information on this incident should call Pennsylvania State Police Schuylkill Haven barracks at 570-593-2000.

REDEDICATION OF BLUE MOUNTAIN ELEMENTARY EAST BUILDING HELD

Over seventy guests attended the rededication of the Blue Mountain Elementary East building in Orwigsburg on Sunday. The building underwent upgrades to the cafeteria, new classrooms, a new gymnasium, and a new library. A geothermal heating and cooling system was installed, which will save energy costs for the district. Former school board president Theodore Heffner, for whom the new library has been named, conducted the ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the facility. Speakers at the event included retired superintendent Joyce Romberger, current superintendent Robert Urzillo, and state senator David Argall.

ST. LUKE'S MINERS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT REOPENS

The emergency department at St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital in Coaldale closed last Wednesday because of a water main break that flooded the first floor of the hospital. Bill Moyer, president of the hospital, announced that the emergency department returned to fully operational status on Saturday. He credits the "diligent, aggressive, and tireless efforts" of the hospital staff in getting the emergency and laboratory departments running in such a short time. The only department still closed for outpatient services is radiology.

FIRE DESTROYS MINERSVILLE HOME

A FIRE SUNDAY IN MINERSVILLE HAS LEFT A FAMILY OF FIVE HOMELESS. FIRE CREWS WERE CALLED TO LAUREL STREET AROUND 4:30PM TO FIND THE HOME OF NEIL AND DONNA STEPHENS DESTROYED. THE FAMILY WAS ABLE TO EXIT SAFELY ALONG WITH THEIR DOG AND SEVERAL CATS. FIRE OFFICIALS BELIEVE THE BLAZE STARTED WHEN A STOVE PIPE OVERHEATED. JUST 7-WEEKS AGO THE STEPHENS FAMILY SUFFERED ANOTHER TRAGEDY WHEN STEPDAUGHTER, CAITLIN KONKUS, DIED AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT IN THE BOROUGH.

ELECTION DAY

IT’S TIME TO HIT THE POLLS TOMORROW AS WE WELCOME ELECTION DAY. FRANNIE BRENNAN, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY ELECTION BUREAU DIRECTOR, SAID OVER 15-HUNDRED ABSENTEE BALLOTS WERE RETURNED AS OF FRIDAY. THERE ARE 125 PRECINCTS ACROSS THE COUNTY THIS YEAR WITH FIVE WORKERS AT EACH. LAST WEEK, THREE POLLING PLACES WERE APPROVED BY THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS INCLUDING THE PINE GROVE HOSE HOOK AND LADDER COMPANY, THE PHOENIX FIRE COMPANY AND SCHUYLKILL HEALTH SCHOOL OF NURSING. THE REPUBLICAN HERALD REPORTS TRANSPORTATION WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR VOTERS.

TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE FOR VOTERS:
• SCHUYLKILL COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY-570-622-3155
• SCHUYLKILL COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY-570-622-1540


TWO INJURED IN ACCIDENT ON 61

TWO CUMBOLA RESIDENTS WERE LIFE FLIGHT MEDI VAC TO LEHIGH VALLEY HOSPITAL AFTER A CRASH SATURDAY AFTERNOON. THE CRASH ON STATE ROUTE 61 IN NORTH MANHEIM TOWNSHIP HAPPENED JUST ACROSS FROM JERRY’S NORTHEAST AUTO. STATE POLICE AT SCHUYLKILL HAVEN TELL US 32-YEAR-OLD HEATHER BERNITSKY WAS TRAVELING AT OVER 100 MPH WHEN SHE LOST CONTROL OF HER VEHICLE AND STRUCK THE CEMENT MEDIAN. HER CAR BECAME AIRBORNE, EVENTUALLY LANDING ON ITS ROOF. BERNITSKY WAS EJECTED FROM HER VEHICLE AND HER PASSENGER, 31-YEAR-OLD DAVID BERNITSKY WAS PARTIALLY EJECTED. AN INVESTIGATION DETERMINED BERNITSKY WAS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL. CHARGES ARE PENDING.

state news:

Here is the latest Pennsylvania news from The Associated Press


HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Just hours after stepping down from their jobs, two top Penn State officials are set to surrender on allegations they failed to alert police about claims of sexual abuse by the football team's former defensive coordinator, Jerry Sandusky. Tim Curley and Gary Schultz are expected to surrender today at a Harrisburg district court.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — State Attorney General Linda Kelly and state police Commissioner Frank Noonan have scheduled a 1 p.m. news conference about the Jerry Sandusky case. They're expected to speak a few miles from the Harrisburg district court. The arraignment of two Penn State officials on perjury charges is scheduled for this afternoon.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — The process of redrawing the state's congressional districts to match population charges is creating some uncertainty for potential challengers next year. Candidates can start circulating nominating petitions February 15th. The deadline to file them is March 8th.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Two members of the Occupy Philadelphia protest movement put politics on hold for a day to form a more perfect union — their own. Alicia "Ally" Nauss of Philadelphia and Adam Hill of Norristown met a month ago at the Occupy Philadelphia encampment. They were married yesterday in front of their fellow protesters.


national news:

PARIS (AP) — World stocks are falling sharply today as leaders pressure Italy to get serious about sticking to an austerity plan. Italy's borrowing costs have skyrocketed since the summer, and that only makes it more expensive for the country to pay down its debt. Meanwhile, Greek politicians are putting the finishing touches on a new unity government in an effort to prevent bankruptcy.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Two top administrators with Penn State are set to be arraigned this morning on charges they lied to a grand jury investigating sexual abuse claims against former defense coordinator Jerry Sandusky. Sandusky was arrested over the weekend for allegedly sexually abusing eight boys in an at-risk program. Athletic Director Tim Curley and Gary Schultz, the school's senior vice president for business and finance, stepped down from their positions last night.

BEIRUT (AP) — A key Syrian opposition group is appealing for international intervention to protect civilians in the besieged city of Homs. Activists say 23 people were killed across Syria on Sunday, and the latest government offensive in Homs took most of those lives. The uprising against President Bashar Assad has gone on for nearly 8 months.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The jury in the involuntary manslaughter trial of Michael Jackson's personal physician continues deliberating today. Dr. Conrad Murray is accused of giving Jackson a fatal dose of the powerful anesthetic propofol.

MOSCOW (AP) — Police in Russia have arrested a man they say kept 29 mummified bodies at his apartment and dressed them up like dolls. Authorities say the man had dug up the bodies from several cemeteries and also is a historian who has written several books. Police are not releasing his name.

TODAY'S NEWS - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2011

LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

POTTSVILLE 27
TWIN VALLEY 0

SHENANDOAH VALLEY 39
MAHANOY AREA 34

LINE MOUNTAIN 34
PINE GROVE 28

MIFFLIN COUNTY 32
BLUE MOUNTAIN 27

MINERSVILLE 56
PANTHER VALLEY 33

TAMAQUA 21
MARIAN 13

STEEL HIGH 36
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN 28

NORTH SCHUYLKILL 37
MILLERSBURG 14

LEHIGHTON 55
JIM THORPE 6

TRI VALLEY 27
UPPER DAUPHIN 20

WILLIAMS VALLEY 25
ANNVILLE CLEONA 0

MT CARMEL 20
SHAMOKIN 7

SOUTHERN COLUMBIA 42
SELINSGROVE 0

LOCAL NEWS

FEMA Extends Registration

The registration process for Individual Assistance for Tropical Storm Lee has been extended until December 14, 2011. To registration for assistance please call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or go to www.DisasterAssistance.gov. The new DRC hours will be:

Monday through Friday – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Saturday – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday – Closed
All DRCs will be open Veterans’ Day, Friday, November 11. The deadline for registering for disaster assistance is November 14.

Zoning Hearing Scheduled For Adult Club In Washington Township

A Schuylkill County judge ruled he will decide whether to allow an adult entertainment business to continue to operate in Washington Township. In an 11-page opinion and order filed Thursday, Judge John E. Domalakes wrote that Dutchmen MX Park LLC, Pine Grove, the owner of the Strip Mine Cabaret, provided no reason why he should not hear the county's lawsuit asking that it be shut down as a violation of its zoning ordinance. As reported by the Republican and Herald, Domalakes will hold a hearing at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday to determine whether to enjoin the operation of the cabaret at 670 Rock Road, Route 895. County officials filed the lawsuit July 5, alleging the cabaret is located in an area zoned agricultural, where an adult entertainment business is not permitted without a variance. Domalakes already has held a hearing Aug. 30 on whether to grant the injunction; Wednesday's scheduled hearing actually is a continuation of that one. Dutchmen had asked Domalakes to dismiss the lawsuit. It alleged that the county should have filed an enforcement notice that would be handled by the county Zoning Hearing Board, and that Domalakes should allow the matter to be decided by a federal court.

State News

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Lawyers for a former Pennsylvania senator convicted of defrauding the state Senate and two nonprofits of more than $2 million say his prison emails show only the normal emotions that inmates experience — and not the revenge plots suggested by prosecutors. Philadelphia Democrat Vincent Fumo is being re-sentenced this coming week in his sweeping corruption case.

READING, Pa. (AP) — Authorities have arrested two Reading (REHD'-ing) women who they say kidnapped a 14-year-old girl and later released her unharmed after receiving $1,000 in ransom. Police say the kidnapping was drug-related. Grace Perez-Jimenez and Samantha Conrad have been charged with kidnapping and related offenses.

PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Department of Justice says a former major at the Allegheny County jail has been indicted by a grand jury. Authorities say in a statement Friday that 47-year-old James Donis has been charged with a felony civil rights violation, falsifying documents, and making false statements.

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) — Former Penn State football assistant Jerry Sandusky is facing charges that he sexually abused minors. The state attorney general's office had been investigating Sandusky since 2009. Sandusky has maintained that he is innocent.

National News

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Greece's next step to secure continued rescue funds for the near-bankrupt eurozone country begins today. Embattled Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou meets with Greece's president to try to strike a four-month deal where he steps aside and forms a cross-party caretaker government.

CANNES, France (AP) — Developing nations are stepping up to press their concerns with the G-20 which just concluded a summit in France. As Mexico succeeds France as leader of the G-20, developing countries want the grouping of major economies to refocus on a bigger global agenda that includes creating jobs, improving farming and fighting climate change.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The leaves are swirling, an autumn chill in the air and that means it must be time to turn back the clock. Officially, the change to standard time occurs at 2 a.m. Sunday. Most folks will set their clocks Saturday night. Hawaii, most of Arizona and some U.S. territories don't observe daylight saving time.

ABILENE, Texas (AP) — Authorities say an Abilene Christian University bus veered off a Texas highway, killing one student and critically injuring four other people. Authorities say the bus, which was taking people to do mission work, overturned, ejecting several people onboard.

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Colombia's defense minister says FARC rebel leader Alfonso Cano was killed in combat with soldiers and police hours after his camp was bombed. Defense Minister Juan Carlos Pinzon says the 63-year-old guerrilla commander known for his trademark beard was clean-shaven when he died in yesterday's firefight.