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the Love this Season Spring is coming soon

CONTINUING: THE WHITE HAVEN JOURNAL ESTABLISHED 1879–144th YEAR, NO. 9

D’Agostino resigns from WH Council; Janosco appointed

WELCOME TO THE FLEET: White Haven Police Department’s latest vehicle is on the road, fully equipped and operational. The truck was one of two vehicles obtained through state grants. JH; Ruth Isenberg

Residents, businesses, help police nab convenience store thief It was help from local residents and businesses that led to the quick arrest of the man who robbed the White Haven Exxon on January 13, and the Foster Township Uni-Mart a week later. White Haven Police Chief Tom Szoke told borough council at its January 23 meeting that private camera footage and phone calls were what enabled police to track down and arrest Andrew Baez that

afternoon for the Foster Township robbery. When apprehended, Baez, 29, of Silver Maple Lane, Freeland, confessed to the White Haven robbery as well. A criminal complaint against Baez was filed with District Justice Rick Cronauer, who ordered a hearing in Luzerne County Central Court on February 2 on charges of robbery and simple assault. Bail was set at $100,000, which Baez was unable to meet, so he will be held until the 2nd in

(USPS 277440)

CONTINUING: THE WEATHERLY HERALD ESTABLISHED 1880–143rd YEAR, NO. 35

by Ruth Isenberg

SINGLE COPY– 75¢

the Luzerne County Prison. According to the report filed by White Haven Police Sgt. Richard Mocafin, Baez entered the UniMart around 2:45 p.m. He brought items to the register and engaged in conversation with the clerk, before giving her a $20 for payment. When she went to the register for change, he pulled a gun and demanded money. He threatened her, as well as another person in the store at the time, took See ARREST, page 5

White Haven Borough Council member Mike D’Agostino sent a letter of resignation from White Haven Borough Council, which was accepted with thanks for his service during the January 23 meeting. His term would have expired at the end of this year, and because he works nights he is unable to attend meetings. Council member Harvey Morrison voted against accepting the resignation, but also made the motion to appoint Tim Janosco to the remainder of the term. Janosco previously served on

council, but chose not to seek re-election four years ago. In other business, council decided to file liens against all properties that have garbage fees outstanding. Because garbage is now being paid from the general fund and therefore paid through property taxes, this is the last time this action will be needed. Solicitor Don Karpowich noted that even if an account delinquency is low, filing fees and penalties will be added, and the amount will accrue interest until it is paid. A delinquency of $150 could easily double upon filing.

WASB makes coaching change by Seth Isenberg

The Weatherly Area girls’ basketball team had to shuffle coaches as varsity coach Brian Billig submitted his resignation effective December 15. At their meeting on January 11, the Weatherly Area School Board accepted the resignation and approved elevating assistant girls’ basketball coach Jason Kane to the varsity coach position, raising his pro-rated pay.

Volunteer coach Chris Gaydoscik was elevated to the paying position of assistant coach. The board approved holding school this past January 16 as a snow make-up day. School will also be in session on February 17 as another snow make-up day. One designated snow See WASB, page 5