Politicians React to Deaths of Charles Snelling and Wife

Friends and associates were stunned to learn that Charles D. Snelling, a well-known Republican activist, had killed his wife then himself Thursday at their home.

  Friends and associates of Republican political activist and entrepreneur Charles D. Snelling were shocked at Thursday’s news that he had killed his wife, Adrienne, and then himself to end their struggle with Alzheimer’s disease, with which Adrienne had suffered for six years. For instant updates, follow Palmer-Forks Patch on Facebook and Twitter. Here is what they said: Dean Browning, a Lehigh County Republican committeeman and former chairman of the Lehigh County Commissioners, has known Snelling for about 10 years as a friend, mentor and confidant. He said Snelling had phoned him on Wednesday, saying in a message left on his work phone that he was referring a customer to New World Aviation, where Browning is chief financial officer.  …

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Prominent Doctor Terry Bartolet Dies

Bartolet, 71, died of a heart attack at his home.

Forks Supervisors Approve 'Off-the-Record' Workshops

Forks Supervisors disbanded its five committees and instead will meet in a workshop session before regular meetings.

Forks Supervisors, in a 4-1 vote Thursday night, decided to disband its five committee meetings, as they exist now, in favor of one hourlong workshop before regular board meetings. “I think this is a mistake,” said Supervisor David Billings, the lone dissenter. Billings objected because the workshops will not have an agenda, be a part of an official record or be recorded for the public to review. “I understand the intent is to improve communication between the board and the staff, but the public also has the right to know,” he said. Chairman Erik Chuss said that the committee meetings were not on the record either, and having five separate committees – Finance & Administration, Parks & Recreation, Public Safety, Public Works and Community …

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Lafayette Mourns Loss of Longtime Benefactor

Fred Kirby II, a 1942 graduate of the school, died Tuesday

Lafayette College is mourning the loss of one of its longtime benefactors. Fred Kirby II, a 1942 graduated of the school, died earlier this week, according to a message on the college website. He was 91. “Our gratitude to Fred Kirby for a lifetime of service and generosity to the college is boundless," college President Daniel Weiss said. "He was a remarkable person in many ways. I will remember with special appreciation the years in which I had the privilege to work with him." Kirby led his family's foundation for more than 40 years. It was responsible for -- among other things -- the Kirby House student residence, Allan P. Kirby Sports Center, and the recent renovation of Fisher Stadium. According to his obituary, Kirby was a veteran of …

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