Basics:
E-mail: Josh.Popichak@patch.com
Phone: 610-216-6043
Unlike many younger (and older) editors, I never went to J-school (that's "journalism school" for those of you who don't use the new media lingo). Most journalism schools are part of medium or large universities, and as a graduate of a large high school I wanted to downsize my education when I went away to college. That was one of the reasons I chose to attend Bates, a liberal arts college in Maine rooted in the traditions of egalitarianism. As a "Batesie" I majored in history and became the features editor for our school newspaper, The Student, before graduating and leaving the beautiful state of Maine behind in 1999. I returned to Pennsylvania and spent several eye-opening years exploring other fields and potential career paths, before feeling called to write and edit again. That was in 2005, when I joined the team at the Saucon News and began to cover Hellertown and Lower Saucon Township as full-time reporter.
On a personal level, I have always been a bit of a newshound and I think that's because I'm constantly trying to understand how the events of today are shaped and influenced by our shared history. I like to think that I have a curious mind, which is a trait I believe every journalist should have.
Right now I'm looking forward to learning a lot more about the Saucon Valley, including more about its history, its present, and its future, and I sincerely hope you'll join me on this journey!
In a news release issued Tuesday, police said Joseph George Polak II, of the 2400 block of Easton Road, drove on the field during the overnight hours of Dec. 14.
The first 2014 COB planning meeting will be held Jan. 27 (or Jan. 28, in case of inclement weather) at 7 p.m. at St. John's U.C.C., 538 E. Thomas St., Coopersburg.
Saucon Valley School District superintendent Dr. Sandra Fellin took time to thank the commercial and emergency responders who quickly dealt with a frozen sprinkler system head and pipe break at the high school Tuesday night.
LSA is the only winter track and field team for kids in Bucks County that accepts youth ages 4-18, no experience necessary.
James H. Martin, 82, of Hellertown died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014 at his residence.
![James H. Martin, 82, Korean War Veteran, Former Contractor [Obituary]](https://patch.com/img/cdn/users/86761/2014/01/raw/57db57cb5cfec52126c344118106cb7e.jpg)
Two Coopersburg area residents were recently named to Lebanon Valley College's fall 2013 dean's list.
Lower Saucon Township police say they're investigating a hit-and-run accident in which trees and a fence in the 2400 block of Black River Road were damaged.
Here's a look at some of the events that will be happening in the Southern Lehigh area this weekend.
Here's a look at some of the events that will be happening in the Saucon Valley area this weekend.
PennDOT announced Wednesday morning that motorists should expect delays on Main Street (Route 412) in Hellertown for utility work being performed by UGI.
Interested parties are encouraged to attend public meetings in Upper Saucon Township.
The Lehigh County Coroner's office announced Tuesday that it is seeking next of kin for a 63-year-old Macungie woman who was pronounced dead Monday of natural causes.
Lower Saucon Township police say they're investigating a hit-and-run accident in which trees and a fence in the 2400 block of Black River Road were damaged.
A number of Southern Lehigh area residents were recently named to the Millersville University of Pennsylvania dean's list for the fall 2013 semester.
Carel N. Heil, 86, of Hellertown, died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2014 at St. Luke's University Hospital, Anderson Campus, Bethlehem Township.
![Carel N. Heil, 86, Retired Social Worker, First UCC Member [Obituary]](https://patch.com/img/cdn/users/86761/2014/01/raw/6348a48aa71043efa262e1677559277e.jpg)
Lower Saucon Township police say a Coal Yard Road resident was cited for an alleged dog law violation after his American bulldog got loose on the evening of Dec. 27 and allegedly attacked a neighbor's dog.
Interested parties are encouraged to attend public meetings in Upper Saucon Township.
The Southern Lehigh School District announced via its website Tuesday evening that schools will open two hours later than normal with a modified kindergarten schedule Wednesday, due to the extreme cold that is still gripping the area.
Trailing 27-19 at the half Sunday, the Saucon Valley boys basketball team (3-5-0) outscored Wilson (4-5-0) 35 to 22 in the second half to record the win.
Saucon Valley School District announced Tuesday afternoon that there will be a two-hour weather-related delay for students on Wednesday, Jan. 8.
