Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
- Hellertown-Lower Saucon, PA
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!
Posting Activity
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Mark Your Calendar for Disney's 'The Little Mermaid Jr.'
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Lower Saucon Township Police Blotter: Dec. 23, 2012
The following information was supplied by the Lower Saucon Township Police Department. Where arrests or charges are mentioned, it does not indicate a conviction.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
SVSD Superintendent: 'Best Force and Source of Security are People'
In the wake of the Newtown school shooting, Saucon Valley School District superintendent Dr. Sandra Fellin thanked parents and staff for their faith in the district's schools on Monday.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Obituary: Robert E. 'Zeke' Ravier, 77, of Upper Saucon
Robert E. "Zeke" Ravier, 77, of Upper Saucon Township, died Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Palmer-Forks, PA|News|
Tell Us: Should E-Cigarettes Be Advertised on TV?
Although TV and radio ads for cigarettes have been banned in the U.S. since 1971, electronic or e-cigarettes can be advertised. Users inhale a nicotine-infused vapor that makers say is a safer alternative to traditional smoking.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
SVSD Superintendent: Reassure Kids in Wake of School Shooting
The following letter was written and shared by Saucon Valley School District superintendent Dr. Sandra Fellin in response to the Newtown, Conn. school shooting.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Dear Newtown, Connecticut
This open letter in response to the tragic school shooting was penned by Hellertown native Emily Doll, a doctoral student at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. It was first published on her Facebook page on Friday.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Obituary: Joan H. Bergstresser, 79, of Palmer Township
Joan H. Bergstresser, 79, of Palmer Township, died Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
3 Tips to Photograph Saucon Valley Holiday Lights
Capturing Christmas lights on your camera can be a challenge. Get some tips. Photograph your lights and enter our holiday lights contest for a chance to win $500.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Car's Occupants Had Heroin Syringes, Police Say
Hellertown Police say a Dec. 12 traffic stop on West Clarke Street led to their discovery of heroin syringes in the possession of two area residents.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
St. George's Announces Christmas Services
St. George's Episcopal Church in Hellertown will hold several special Christmas services.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
PEEPSFEST is Warm-Up to New Year's Eve
Celebrate PEEPSFEST in Bethlehem Dec. 30-31 with music, arts and a giant Peep-Drop at the ArtsQuest Center.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Jewel to Bring Greatest Hits to Bethlehem
Singer-songwriter Jewel will perform at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center March 15.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Wayne Newton Coming to Bethlehem
'Mr. Las Vegas' Wayne Newton will perform at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center April 20.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Yes to Play at Sands Bethlehem Event Center
The rock band Yes will perform at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center in April.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Middle School Now Has a 'Breakfast Club'
The Saucon Valley Middle School Breakfast Club will be open from 7:10 to 7:25am daily in the Pond Lobby and at the middle school store. It's sponsored by the National Junior Honor Society.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
Hellertown-Lower Saucon|News|
Pets in Need of Homes: Joselyn and King
These adorable pets are awaiting adoption at the Center for Animal Health and Welfare in Williams Township.
Josh Popichak, Patch Staff
