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!
According to a Landfill Funds Report recently released by Lower Saucon Township, IESI Bethlehem Landfill was the source of more than $2 million in revenue in 2011.
Hellertown Police Chief Robert Shupp presented five officers with performance-based awards at Borough Council's Aug. 20 meeting.
Do you think people should be allowed to smoke in Hellertown's parks? Tell us in the comments and vote in the poll, below.
The following information was supplied by the Lower Saucon Township Police Department. Where arrests or charges are mentioned, it does not i
The following information was supplied by the Hellertown Police Department. Where arrests or charges are mentioned, it does not indicate a conviction.
Lower Saucon Township Police said Tuesday that Brenda Lynn Anema of 4175 Countryside Lane has been charged in an Aug. 14 incident that allegedly occurred on Applebutter Road.
The data is part of "How America Gives," a recently published report about American philanthropy at the neighborhood level.
The double-sided mailer from local landfill owner IESI recently arrived in the mailboxes of many Steel City, Lower Saucon Township residents, some of whom have voiced opposition to the landfill's proposed expansion.
Lower Saucon Township Councilman Ron Horiszny asked Aug. 15 if anything can be done to help slow down motorists at the intersection of Black River and Bingen roads.
These cute pets at the Center for Animal Health and Welfare in Williams Township need new homes.
On Aug. 15, Lower Saucon Township Council approved a request by Frank Hospitality Saucon LLC for a liquor license transfer. The license will be used by a bowling-themed entertainment center the company plans to open in a former movie theater.
On Aug. 15 Lower Saucon Township Council voted to authorize changes to the township's park and trail rules. The changes will bring the rules into accordance with state gun law, council's solicitor said.
John Joseph Hobbs, 73, of Steel City, Lower Saucon Township died Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012.
Hellertown Police say a 15-year-old girl kicked and spat on several officers in the 1000 block of Third Avenue Aug. 8.
Students will be heading back to college soon, both locally and throughout the country. Here are some ways to stay safe.
The popular Bumbo baby seat has been recalled after 21 reports of infants with cracked skulls.
John S. Chunko Jr., 81, of Hellertown, died Thursday, Aug. 16, 2012.
Snoops, a 15-pound tuxedo cat, has been missing from his home in Freemansburg since July 26.
The information in this update is for the Saucon Valley School District, which includes the Borough of Hellertown and Lower Saucon Township. It is taken from the Lehigh Valley Association of Realtors' July 2012 Market Update.
Geraldine M. Chaikowsky, 82, of Hellertown, died Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012.
