Local News

With more snow forecast for many parts of Pennsylvania, PennDOT today reminded motorists that they are required by law to clear their vehicles' windows of ice and snow before driving.

"Clearing your vehicle of ice and snow before you get on the road isn't just common sense, it's the law," said PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Highway Administration Scott Christie, P.E. "Driving without full visibility is extremely dangerous, and ice or snow that falls from your vehicle can pose a serious threat to others on the road."

A Tamaqua man pleaded guilty in Carbon County court on Thursday, admitting to having indecent sexual contact with a young boy.

Ricky Lee Propst, 42, pleaded guilty to one count of indecent assault before President Judge Roger N. Nanovic II. In a plea bargain other, more serious charges, including involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, were dropped.

Propst was arrested by Lehighton police after they received information from the relative of a young boy who had told her of the incidents with Propst.

Duane Schleicher signed an agreement with the East Penn supervisors listing what remained to be done on sections one and two of Northside Heights. Still on the list was an inspection by the engineer.

Supervisor chairman Herb Truhe made a motion at this week's supervisors' meeting to accept the as-built plans and consider the first two phases complete. "Let's get this off our backs, guys," he said.

"You are circumventing the agreement," said supervisor Randy Pfeiffer. In a 4-1 vote with Pfeiffer voting "no," it was approved.

Franklin Township police are investigating a Thursday morning crash involving a pickup truck and a bus owned and operated by the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit 21. The crash occurred just after 8 a.m. at the intersection of Fairyland Road and Jefferson street. One person, a woman operating the pickup truck, was extricated from the unit by members of the Franklin Township Fire Company. She was treated at the scene by Lehighton paramedics and transported to the Gnaden Huetten Hospital. At least two adults were on the school bus who did not appear to be injured in the mishap.