Democrat Joe Devine has announced his candidacy for nomination to the seat of Schuylkill County commissioner in the May 19 primary election.

Devine was born and raised in the City of Pottsville. He is a graduate of Nativity BVM High School and the Pennsylvania State University with a bachelor of science degree in administration of justice. He currently serves as a city councilman for the city of Pottsville.Devine served honorably in the military for his country. He was active duty during the Vietnam era as a communication specialist with United States Air Force attached to SAM Special Air Missions at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, D.C. He also served with the Air National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap.In 2005 he was deployed to Iraq to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom with the U.S. Navy Reserve as a U.S. Navy Customs clearing agent on the Iraqi southern border. He returned from Iraq in 2006 and retired.Devine has been a volunteer for the City of Pottsville for over 20 years. He is a member of city council and past chairman of the Pottsville zoning hearing board. He serves on the board of directors for the CACL federal credit union in Pottsville and is retired from the United States Postal Service with 33 years of service and is a life member of the National Association of Letter Carriers.Devine is an active member in both professional and community organizations including the American Legion, the Pottsville War Veterans, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Knights of Columbus, St. Clair Fish & Game, Humane and East End Fire companies and the Green Wave Association.Most important to Devine is his love anddedication to his family.He is the father of three grown children and five grandchildren. He is proud to be a lifelong resident and public servant to the people of SchuylkillCounty.