Editor’s note: This is the fourth installment in a yearlong series of stories showcasing organizations in Schuylkill County that give back to their communities.

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There are many organizations in the Minersville area — and all around Schuylkill County — whose memberships give back to the community and all of the county in a variety of ways.

Here is a closer look at some of the groups from around Schuylkill County:

Minersville Area

Skatepark Association

The Minersville Area Skatepark Association was formed to raise the money to build, maintain and improve an outdoor concrete open-to-the-public skatepark in Minersville.

The association is based in Minersville, but is open to all. The skate park is located behind the softball field near the New Minersville Fire Company.

The park construction began in July 2014 and was completed Sept. 28, 2014. Matt Arment, Denver, was the skate park designer and builder.

A small group formed about six years ago at the request of young people to have a skatepark in Minersville.

The association built the park to give young people a place to go to do the things that they enjoy — skateboarding, scootering and biking. There was a town ordinance that prohibited such activities from the streets and sidewalks in town.

The association has soup sales, theme basket raffles other types of raffles as fundraisers.

Anyone interested in donating to the Minersville Area Skatepark Association can visit minersvilleareaskatepark.webs.com or call 570-294-6235.

The association meets at 6 p.m. the first Monday of each month, except for Mondays that are holidays. Meetings are open to members, potential members and the public.

Annual dues are $5 per adult over the age of 18. Under 18 are associate non-voting members and are welcome to join.

For location of the meetings or more information, call 570-294-6235 or email minersvilleareaskatepark@yahoo.com.

The association’s current officers include James Domlesky, Regina Kleeman and Bobbie Domlesky.

The Community Mission

The Community Mission, based at 336 N. Front St. in Minersville, has been helping people in Schuylkill County for more than four years.

As neighbors helping neighbors, Pastor Bob Alonge said the organization has been doing this by working with existing churches, organizations and businesses to address needs as they arise.

The organization has developed a grassroots initiative guided by collaboration and community needs.

The results, according to the mission, are highly functional local systems that serve the common good. The approach includes addressing the holistic needs of a community; supporting sustainability, coordinating collaborative action and tapping into the power of community.

The Community Mission provides family services which include pastoral counseling, education, food pantry and clothing closet distribution, a grief support group with fellowship focused on building strong and influential families.

The group has weekly Bible studies and community meals and privately through individual and group counseling and activities.

Weekly Bible studies include New Believers Bible Studies and studies to help every believer grow to their fullest.

The organization also focuses on helping Christians who are struggling with their faith by offering a year-long discipleship program that includes daily andweekly mentoring.

In addition to opening its food and clothing pantries the second and fourth Tuesdays every month, it is open daily (by appointment) to provide for personal needs as they arise.

The mission’s new center in Minersville allows it to meet all of its ministry goals under one roof.

The Community Mission has an expanded room for its pantries and other events, such as revival meetings, community dinners and private functions.

The mission will offer religious education for the whole family, including private Christian Education using Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) in both homeschooling and on-site instruction. We are the county’s only testing center for this instruction.

The Community Mission also offers an online Bible School through Jacksonville Theological Seminary.

For more information on the Community Mission, go to www.thecommunitymission.org or call Alonge 570-617-4620.

Minersville

Crafty Quilters

The Minersville Crafty Quilters formed about 2001, with women from the community getting together to learn and enjoy quilting.

Through the years, this get-together has evolved into a group that performs charity work, including projects benefiting Victory Junction, a NASCAR-affiliated charity; blankets and quilts for fire victims and, most recently, its Make A Difference Day work for Schuylkill Women in Crisis, Avenues, Eldercare and Birthright of Frackville.

The organization currently does not have any officers.

The Minersville Crafty Quilters have sessions at 6 p.m. every Wednesday at St. Michael the Archangel Parish Center, Lewis Street entrance.

There is no cost to attend and people 18 and older can learn how to quilt.

For more information, call 570-544-3479.

The Actors Guild of Schuylkill County

The Actors Guild of Schuylkill County was started in 1999 and is one of the longest operating community theater groups in the county.

The Actors Guild of Schuylkill County is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing quality live theater to the area.

Community theater provides entertainment to audiences through a variety of productions. The guild has found many talented Schuylkill County residents interested in participating, and its members are happy to bring this opportunity to the area.

The guild believes in quality live theater for everyone. The presence of such a committed dramatic organization enhances the community by providing an opportunity to all those interested in the performing arts.

The organization strives to bring entertainment, imagination and a joyful time to both those who enjoy watching live theater, and to those who dream of being part of a wonderful stage production.

The guild was one of the first groups to offer children’s productions some nine years ago — in which every single child was given a part and the chance to perform — and the guild still does that.

The guild also has been using its acting talents to raise funds for local nonprofit organizations, most recently a performance of “It’s a Wonderful Life” Live Radio Show for the Schuylkill Haven Island project.

The organization produces five to seven productions a year, and members say they are always in search of fun people to join its ranks.

To become a member or to audition for a show, you can contact the guild via Facebook or at its website www.agosc.org.

Current officers are Barbara Feudale, president; Amy Mills, vice president; Dana Smith-Mansel, secretary, and Jessica Miller, treasurer.

TOWER CITY — The continuation of a due process hearing for suspended Williams Valley High School Principal Tracey Weller on Tuesday featured two hours of testimony from Superintendent Diane Niederriter.

Most of the testimony was under cross-examination by Weller’s attorney, Michael M. Monsour. He pointed out errors in the unemployment compensation report filed by Niederriter and questioned other decisions made in regard to disciplining Weller. Niederriter, meanwhile, repeatedly testified that Weller was given an opportunity to explain and justify her actions but did not do so, and that she believed Weller’s actions put students in danger.

The situation stems from Weller’s questioning of students following a threatening Instagram post in February. While two students with possible information on the posting were in Weller’s office being questioned, the suspect walked in. The two students were later threatened outside of school property by the suspect’s brother.

About 15 citizens attended the hearing, which Weller asked to be made public. All Williams Valley school board directors were present.

Monsour referred to an unemployment compensation form, in which Niederriter contended that Weller should be ineligible because she engaged in “willful misconduct.”

Monsour stated that there were mistakes in the report besides a missing apostrophe; the word “brother” was missing. He asked if Niederriter thought it mattered that it was not the perpetrator who made any of the alleged threats against the two students, but it was his brother that did so.

“We acknowledged it was a mistake,” Niederriter said.

Monsour, with the firm of Kozloff Stoudt, Wyomissing, asked if any effort had been made to correct the form, and Niederriter said it had not.

The district administration’s attorney, Benjamin L. Pratt of Obermayer Rebmann Maxwell & Hippel LLP, Harrisburg, objected, noting Tuesday’s hearing was not an employee compensation hearing. Nicholas Quinn, the district’s solicitor, oversaw the hearing and sustained Pratt’s objection.

Monsour also questioned when Weller was sent the Loudermill hearing notice.

According to the unemployment report, it stated she received it on March 9, Monsour said, when it had really been sent to her on March 13. He asked Niederriter why she would sign something, if she knew it wasn’t true.

“I don’t have an answer to that,” she said. “It’s inaccurate.”

Monsour wanted to know why it took three weeks to formulate a Loudermill notice.

“I don’t know,” Niederriter responded.

In relation to an investigation, Monsour asked if there was a set of rules to follow for the administration. Niederriter said no, but that there was specific language in the district’s bullying policy.

Monsour questioned Niederriter on whether she made the decision to suspend Weller before or after she knew that state Trooper Rob Blystone of the Lykens barracks had also been in the office with Weller on Feb. 21. Niederriter said “after.”

Niederriter said it was her understanding that Blystone was conducting a wellness visit at the district and that he was not the lead investigator on the case.

When asked if there were any negative evaluations of Weller in 2016-17 and 2017-18, Niederriter testified there were none that she was aware of. He also asked if there was a written chain of command rule. Niederriter said there was not.

Niederriter said Weller did not communicate what had transpired during the interview process with the students and how the situation arose.

“She had a chance to explain what she did multiple times and she did not do that,” Niederriter said.

The superintendent said that she expects her administrators to take three items under consideration before they take an action and ask themselves what gives them the authority to do what they’re about to do. They include the Williams Valley district policies, the school code of 1949, and the collective bargaining agreement, she said.

Pratt began his redirect questioning of Niederriter, and the hearing was still underway at 9 p.m., with no further information available as of press time Tuesday.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

PINE GROVE — The Pine Grove Area Quiz Bowl team received recognition Thursday from the school board.

The team, which won the county title and advanced to compete at the state tournament, shared their momentous journey with directors.

Adviser Gerald Salen explained that during Quiz Bowl, students are asked questions in all disciplines. Over the past few years, the goal of the team has been to win a league championship.

Salen said the team captured the Schuylkill League title, got into the finals, and headed to states, where the Cardinals finished 12th out of 24 teams.

“We’re 40 and 7 in Quiz Bowl competitions,” Salen said. “We’ve come a long way and I’m so proud of them.”

Teammates Avery Levan, David Krammes and Trent Machamer commented on their remarkable season.

“Our family’s just grown. The morale and sense of fellowship never really leaves,” Levan said.

Krammes said the team transformed from a mediocre one to a team that’s one of the most “respected and knowledgeable teams in the county.”

Each team member had a specialty field of concentration, enabling the team to ring in early with answers, Krammes said.

“It was an honor to be among them because they always tried their best,” Machamer added.

Salen thanked the district and the board for its continued support of the program.

Others in the district were also lauded.

Superintendent Heath W. Renninger and school board President Evelyn Wassel presented Middle School Principal Melissa Mekosh with a plaque, which recognized the school for receiving the District 11 sportsmanship award.

Renninger congratulated the art and music programs for their public shows and performances, and the softball, archery, track and Envirothon team members for their achievements.

Senior Gabrielle Lutz, student representative on the board, received a framed piece of artwork from the district for her service.

In other business, the board:

• Approved a contract between the district and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, effective July 1 through June 30, 2021, pending ratification by the union. This is for nonprofessionial employees. Contract details were not provided, pending the AFSCME vote.

• Appointed Wassel and Dave Lukasewicz as the two voting delegates to the Pennsylvania School Boards Association voting assembly.

• Recognized May seniors of the month, Alexia Shiffer, Erika VanTries and Brett Anspach, and May eighth-graders of the month, Kylie Turner and Andrew Trate.

• Approved paying McClure $27,082.76, which is the final payment on the Performance Based Energy Savings Agreement Amendment 2, and will close out the first phase of the elementary/middle school HVAC project.

• Approved a lease agreement between the district and the Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 to rent space in the district for the preschool program at a cost of $850 per month for the 2018-19 school year

• Approved Mangat Family Dentistry for dental services for the 2018-19 school year at a cost of $3 per dental exam

• Ratified the list of 59 district volunteers

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

ORWIGSBURG — The Eagle Foundation honored two dozen members of the Blue Mountain Class of 2018 with scholarships at a banquet Tuesday evening.

The Eagle Foundation was established to promote excellence in education and enrichment of the academic experience for the benefit of the students, faculty and administration of the Blue Mountain School District. This was the 19th year for the Eagle Foundation banquet and the achievement-based scholarships ranged from $500 to $2,500.

“We felt these young students, they need to be honored,” board member Shirley Ravitz said.

High school social studies teacher, gifted coordinator and featured speaker Steve Zimmerman said while the Eagle Foundation provides great things for the Blue Mountain students, it is only possible through the generous contributions from the community.

“I urge you all to continue to be involved. Continue to give back, continue to contribute in any way you can to this organization, financially, time, spirit, whatever it is to keep the Eagle Foundation running,” Zimmerman said.

Taylor Kerstetter earned the Fern Heiser Compassion Award, valued at $2,000. The award is presented to a female student in the top 30 percent of her class who embodies Fern’s caring and giving spirit through outstanding leadership and compassion for others. Kerstetter is attending the University of Pittsburgh Nursing School to become a neonatal nurse practitioner.

“Being here with all my peers really inspires me to make everyone proud. I’m fortunate to be in such a great class,” Kerstetter said.

Paige Jones was awarded the Elvin Kunsman Award for Excellence in Leadership or Mathematics, worth $2,500. This award is given to a student with the highest average in math based on grade point average and SAT scores. It was established by Delroy G. Heiser in honor of Blue Mountain School District founder Elvin H. Kunsman.

Jones is attending Muhlenberg College this fall to major in biology and minor in dancing. Being awarded the scholarship named after the school’s founder is uplifting for Jones and will continue to motivate her and she hopes one day to return to the district and “give back since they gave so much to me.”

“I’m thankful for that,” Jones said.

Karl Usuka was presented with the Donald S. Jones Memorial Award, a $500 value. This award was established by family, friends, and former students of Donald Jones, a Blue Mountain teacher for over 40 years. It is given to a student who is majoring in English, communications or performing arts in college.

“It’s an honor to see both myself and my classmates represented like this. We have a lot to look forward to. We all have a lot of capability. If we use it wisely, we can do good things,” Usuka said.

Award presenter and foundation board member David Krewson concluded the night’s presentation with the belief that “if we can’t be inspired by the young men and women that have come up to this podium tonight, then we are all seriously in trouble.”

“You guys are great and you’re going to do great,” Krewson said.

The following students received scholarships and awards

:

Ethan Dewald: Charles Hill Memorial Award, $500

Jakob Biever: Ravitz Family Award for Male Scholar/Athlete ($500)

Ava Zimmerman: Ravitz Family Award for Female Scholar/Athlete, $500

David Krewson: Matthew S. Hill Memorial Award, $750

Katie Bolinsky: Matthew S. Hill Memorial Award, $750

Paige Jones: Elvin Kunsman Award for Excellence in Leadership or Mathematics, $2,500

Emily Harding: Fern Heiser Heritage Award, $1,500

Taylor Kerstetter: Fern Heiser Compassion Award, $2,000

Alexis Washko: Dr. Sultan Khan Memorial Award, $500

Karl Usuka: Donald S. Jones Memorial Award, $500

Nadia Saloum: Pauline S. Carl Memorial Award, $500

Samantha Puzzi: Anna Setlock Award for Female Scholar Athlete, $500; Eagle Foundation Award, $1,500

Jonathan Phillips: Officer Bill Bradley Award, $500,

Hannah Yoder: Eagle Foundation Award, $1,000

Kaitlyn Yeakley: Eagle Foundation Award, $750

Anna Gumaer: Eagle Foundation Award, $750

The following students received $500 Eagle Foundation Awards:

Emily Laughlin

Jerienne Abercrombie

Miranda Freeman

Miranda Koch

Chase Weizer

Kyle Rich

Sophia Pascuzzo

Taylor Martin

Contact the writer: dbarr@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6011

Another day of testimony will be needed for the due process hearing for suspended Williams Valley High School Principal Tracey Weller.

Her hearing was continued from Tuesday, although a new date has not been set, according to district solicitor Nicholas A. Quinn, Pottsville.

She was charged with incompetency, willful neglect and failure to comply with school laws of the commonwealth, including official direct and established policy of the board of directors and violation of the Pennsylvania professional standards for a professional employee.

The situation stems from Weller questioning students about a threatening February Instagram post. She was notified about the post and while two students with possible information on the posting were in Weller’s office, the suspect walked in, according to testimony provided. The two students were later threatened outside school property by the suspect’s brother.

Superintendent Diane Niederriter, Sgt. Brian Wolfe and Trooper Rob Blystone, both of the Lykens barracks of the Pennsylvania State Police, testified during a three-hour hearing Tuesday at Williams Valley High School, Tower City.

The hearing was continued so testimony from the state police and Weller could be heard, according to Quinn.

Weller requested that the hearing, which will determine if she will remain an employee of the district, be open to the public. About 15 citizens heard Tuesday’s testimony. The hearing began May 2 and has been continued twice.

Weller has worked in the district as principal since January 2013. She was earning an annual salary of $84,000 and was initially suspended with pay. On March 1, the Williams Valley school board voted 8-1 to suspend her without pay, effective March 2. Director John Mika voted no.

Weller’s duties have been completed by other administrators, Niederriter said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

SHENANDOAH — A Shenandoah fire company has taken on a volunteer effort to place American flags at veterans’ graves in time for Memorial Day.

Members of the Polish American Fire Company No. 4 have been busy visiting cemeteries in Shenandoah Heights in recent weeks, a task that has taken a bit longer due to the recent rain on so many days.

Fire company President Mike Wasko and member Allen Palubinsky spoke about the project to assist the American Legion Anthony P. Damato Medal of Honor Post 792 of Shenandoah in placing the flags. In most cases, members of veterans posts throughout the area place the flags at the graves, and in some cases, enlist the help of students and others to place new flags and remove those placed last year.

“I was doing stuff for juvenile probation and somehow it came up in a conversation with Mr. (Leo) Slecton (of the Legion post) that he needed some help with the flags,” Palubinsky said. “The Polish American Fire Company members said we’re interested in helping you out. We have a lot of veterans who are members of the PA who wanted to get involved.”

Palubinsky said the veterans posts are in need of help since the members are aging.

“Most of the veterans in this area are 60, 70 years old and they can’t do that anymore,” he said. “They just don’t have the ability to do this. And it is a humbling experience going up there. You see gentlemen who received Purple Hearts, individuals 18, 19 years of age killed in action. The PA knew that and these guys got involved to help us out. Hopefully it continues in the long run.”

Palubinsky said 13 boxes of flags are ordered from the Schuylkill County Department of Veterans’ Services. With each box holding 280 flags, the volunteers place almost 4,000 flags at the grave sites.

“We get a lot of help from the veterans affairs office at the courthouse. Brenda (Zechman) and Mike (VanAllen) are very good individuals. They help us coordinate this,” Palubinsky said. “It’s a group effort.”

Palubinsky said flags have been placed at most of the cemeteries, and he expects all flags will be placed before the Memorial Day weekend.

“For myself personally, this is a thank you and giveback to the veterans,” Palubinsky said. “It’s the first year for them and they did a heck of a job doing it. We can adjust some things for next year, but it is a work in progress.”

Wasko said that more than a dozen fire company members volunteered their time.

“We started this at the beginning of May and we’ve been using evenings, weekends, depending on the weather,” Wasko said. “Like Allen said, we have two cemeteries to finish up. And this project will also include taking these flags off in the fall so they can be retired in the fall at the Columbia Hose Company.”

Contact the writer: jusalis@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023

Anthony J. Kilker

SHENANDOAH — A 46-year-old Shenandoah woman charged with an assault in the borough appeared for a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker.

Ruth Lynn Jarzinko, 239 S. Chestnut St., was arrested by Shenandoah police Patrolman John Buchinsky IV and charged with one count each of aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

Prosecutors withdrew the charges of aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person and resisting arrest after which Jarzinko waived the remaining two offenses to Schuylkill County Court.

Buchinsky charged Jarzinko with an incident at 237 S. Chestnut St. around 3:15 p.m. May 8 when he was called for a disturbance and spoke to the woman’s neighbor who accused Jarzinko of trying to smash one of her windows.

Buchinsky said while he was there Jarzinko came running down her steps screaming trying to go after her neighbor. As he was trying to stop Jarzinko, Buchinsky said, the woman kicked him in the chest and the continued to swing her arms and resist before he was able to get her into custody and in handcuffs.

Other court cases included:

Joshua J. Mooney, 30, of 7 Main St., Gilberton, or LKA 129 W. Pine St., Mahanoy City; waived for court: theft, receiving stolen property, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Christopher Charriez, 28, of SCI/Mahanoy, Frackville; waived for court: open lewdness and disorderly conduct.

Jennifer M. Velousky, 35, of 116 N. Bower St., Shenandoah; waived for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mark A. Shambach, 49, of 114 N. Main St., Apt. 2, Shenandoah; withdrawn: public drunkenness and harassment. Waived for court: harassment and defiant trespass.

Laura D. Ditaranto, 53, of 409 W. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City; held for court: disorderly conduct, obstructing the administration of law and obedience to authorized personnel directing traffic.

Joshua A. Wagner, 28, of 1187 W. Coal St., Shenandoah; held for court: possession of drug paraphernalia.

Joshua L. Derk, 28, of 1703 Centre St., Ashland; withdrawn: resisting arrest. Waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia and disorderly conduct.

Michael P. Richards, 39, of Box 110, 30 First St., Oneida; withdrawn: crimes committed with a firearm and possession of marijuana. Waived for court: driving an unregistered vehicle, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Laura D. Richardson, 33, of 409 W. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City; withdrawn by police: obstructing the administration of law, disorderly conduct, careless driving and obedience to authorized personnel directing traffic.

Woman on roof

forces road closure

POTTSVILLE — A woman who climbed onto a rooftop in Pottsville on Wednesday morning forced the closing of a portion of a city street.

Pottsville police said officers were called around 8:40 a.m. to the 1400 block of West Norwegian Street for a woman on a roof.

The 28-year-old woman, who was not identified, refused to cooperate with officers who tried for about 90 minutes to get her to exit the roof on her own.

The woman eventually listened to officers and exited the rooftop safely into a residence.

The 1400 block of West Norwegian Street was shut down by Pottsville firefighters for the duration of the incident.

Also assisting at the scene were personnel from Schuylkill EMS.

Police said their investigation as to why the woman decided to climb on to the roof is continuing.

Memorial Day weekend signals the unofficial start of summer and, for some people, that means opening the family pool.

There’s more to it than just removing the cover and cleaning out the visible debris before diving in, experts say.

Gino Yablonski of Pool World Inc., Shamokin, offered a to-do list when opening the pool after winter.

The first step is to clear and wash the cover.

Next, insert the plug in the bottom of the tank and reinstall the pool filter pressure gauge, making sure to not overtighten. The backwash glass should be installed and the filter primed with water and the filter basket should be in place. If used during winterizing, the gizmo should be removed from the skimmer. The plug in the return lines should be removed and the sand filter has to be placed on backwash.

The pH level of the water should be tested and adjusted if needed.

“Algae is the biggest problem. That’s why it’s important to test the pH first,” Yablonski said.

Finally, the water should be chlorinated with shock. Shock adds a high boost of chlorine to the water. If chlorine must be added, the best time is early morning or evening. If done midday, the sun will dry the chlorine up.

Lisa Schaeffer, store manger for Bob’s Pools Inc., Friedensburg, said the store starts having an influx of customers at the beginning of May and business has started to pick up recently.

“Rain really kept people away,” Schaeffer said.

Schaeffer said the biggest issue she’s seen when people open their pools for the season is dirty, green water. She said pool owners opening their pools should test the water and equipment before use and make sure they are stocked up on chemicals and other supplies. During the summer, maintenance includes testing the water on a regular basis.

Not everyone was waiting for Memorial Day weekend to use their pool.

Grant Yoder, Pottsville, has had his family’s in-ground pool open for a few weeks but was hoping to get the water temperature up to 80 degrees. He had the pool installed last summer and said the family used it daily.

“If we were home, somebody was in it every day,” Yoder said. “We swam in it until probably around the first of November. Being able to heat it is a big bonus. We’ve just been waiting for the weather to break for us to get in here consistently.”

Keeping the water clean can be difficult because debris that lands on the cover ends up in the pool once the cover is rolled up.

“Keeping the leaves out up here is a challenge and bugs and critters,” Yoder said.

Contact the writer: dbarr@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6011

TAMAQUA — No one was injured when a fire broke out inside the Tamaqua Salvation Army at 105 W. Broad St. around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday.

The fire originated in a clothes dryer on the third floor of the building, which is the residence of Salvation Army Major Sharon Whispell, according to Tamaqua Fire Department Chief James “Jim” Connely.

Connely ruled the fire accidental, and said Whispell was not home when the fire started. She will be temporarily displaced while repairs are made. Connely said Salvation Army headquarters will find housing for her.

“She will be staying somewhere else,” he said.

According to Connely, borough fire crews arrived within a few minutes and were able to contain the fire in a half hour. It was completely extinguished in 40 minutes, he said.

The third floor of the building sustained smoke, water and fire damage, while the second floor — which is also part of the living quarters — sustained smoke and water damage. He estimated that repairs will cost $44,000.

The Salvation Army’s chapel, gymnasium and other public areas were not damaged.

Tamaqua Fire Police directed traffic around the fire scene, and a portion of West Broad Street (Route 209) was temporarily closed.

The Tamaqua Rescue Squad and Tamaqua Community Ambulance were also on the scene.

Contact the writer: jwhalen@standardspeaker.com; 570-501-3592

TAMAQUA — State Department of Transportation contractors have begun preliminary work on a project to replace an underground bridge that goes over Wabash Creek along West Broad Street.

During Wednesday’s council meeting, Borough Manager Kevin Steigerwalt said crews from J.D. Eckman installed poles for temporary traffic signals at Hunter and Spruce streets.

They’ll also soon begin milling and patching the detour route, he said. The detour will begin June 6.

Traffic won’t be permitted in the work zone, which is on West Broad Street (Route 209) between South Railroad and Hunter streets.

The detour will use South Railroad, West Spruce and South Lehigh streets. It will be posted, but a map also is available on the borough’s website and Facebook page.

Businesses that will be impacted by the project were invited to a meeting with PennDOT officials on Wednesday, Steigerwalt said. They’ll be able to ask more about the project, he said.

Parking restrictions are also in effect on certain days in advance of the project.

Until Friday there will be no parking on West Broad Street from South Railroad to Hunter streets. Parking will also be banned on Berwick Street.

Crews expect to have the project completed on Aug. 19.

As for other ongoing work, Steigerwalt said contractors are working on electrical upgrades and roofing at the pool building at Bungalow Park. The H.D. Buehler Memorial Pool is also being refilled and Steigerwalt expects it will be open the weekend of June 2 and 3.

The council also hired a number of lifeguards and a second assistant pool manager during the meeting.

Contact the writer: jwhalen@standardspeaker.com; 570-501-3592

ZION GROVE — Some business people and residents in North Union Township don’t want to see the name of their road change, even if folks in neighboring East Union Township do.

Allen Stauffer, who owns an auto body, towing and salvage business on Green Mountain Road, doesn’t want to see North Union Township supervisors going along with their counterparts in East Union, who are considering a change due to problems with tractor-trailers looking for the Humboldt Industrial Park.

East Union Township has two Green Mountain roads, which is causing the confusion. One is in the industrial park and the other is in Brandonville, which connects to the one in North Union Township

East Union solicitor Joseph Baranko said he inked a letter to North Union Township supervisors to see if they would be interested in changing the name of their portion of Green Mountain Road. He has not heard back yet.

Stauffer remembers having to change his address 20 some years ago from Slabtown Road to Green Mountain Road, and he doesn’t want to do it again. Too many companies and contacts would have to be notified that it would be overwhelming for a small businessman, he said.

“It would be a hardship,” said Stauffer, who has contacted an attorney.

His son, Joe, suggested that if East Union Township wants to change the name, let them, but leave the North Union Township portion as it is.

Another North Union Township resident, John Kuczynski, who has a trash hauling business and a vending company, and also raises thousands for charity each year, also doesn’t want to see the name change.

“It’s a problem for us, because we’d have to change everything,” he said. “It would be a detriment to our business.”

Kuczynski, who has raised more than $300,000 for Toys for Tots in the past 10 years, said a name change would hurt them financially as well.

The name change to Green Mountain Road also caused problems with emergency dispatches over the years, Joe Stauffer said. His parents had a fire at their home after it was changed the last time, and firefighters headed to Green Mountain Road in the Humboldt park, he said.

“We could hear the fire trucks going up the mountain,” Allen Stauffer’s wife, Susan, said.

The industrial park had the name first, and the Stauffers wondered why the folks in East Union Township would change the name to Green Mountain when they already had one in existence.

East Union residents and officials have been contending with trucks going to the Green Mountain Road in Brandonville, instead of the one in the industrial park, and getting lost or stuck on the narrow road. Recently, a truck on the wrong Green Mountain Road pulled down wires across Route 924, shutting down the highway and cutting electricity to hundreds.

Allen Stauffer can’t understand how changing the road name would help the problem with the trucks getting lost, because many of the truck drivers today can’t read or write English, he said, and blindly rely on GPS systems programed by their companies. GPS isn’t always correct, he said. Trucks deliver to his business and many times, the GPS sends drivers into the gated development, the Cove Village, he said.

A large sign tells truckers that tractor-trailers are not permitted beyond a certain point on Green Mountain Road, but trucks still show up on the road, East Union resident Steve Bushinski said earlier this month. A township supervisor also suggested that a name change wouldn’t help because truck drivers can’t read, but something has to be done about the road.

Bushinski, who has been asking his supervisors to make the name change for months, has said that GPS maps wouldn’t be updated immediately, but in time, the maps would catch up to the name change. He even suggested the township contact GPS companies to update their maps after the change to hasten the process.

Contact the writer: kmonitz@standardspeaker.com; 570-501-3589

SHENANDOAH — The sight of potholes and orange traffic cones do not bring a smile to anyone’s face, but there is a place where the combination of both causes plenty of grins again and again.

Chill Out Ice Cream Parlor and Snack Shop came up with an idea for those who hate potholes and love ice cream called the “Pothole Sundae,” and after less than a week, its popularity is growing faster than some of those highway craters.

For those not familiar with the limited-edition treat, an orange plastic cone is the holder, first filled with giant marshmallows, and then topped with vanilla soft-serve ice cream, chocolate dirt (crushed cookies), malt, chocolate rocks, and then topped with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. Peanuts can also be added and the ice cream flavor can be substituted.

When the customers are finished eating, the cone can be taken home.

The shop, which is located just south of Shenandoah along state Route 924, first opened in mid-September 2014, and since then, owners Robert and Anna Marie Decusky, Ringtown, like trying new things in the shop. Before the shop opened for the season, the employees were asked for ideas.

“Bobby and I went to Michigan during the winter and went to an ice cream conference and listened to seminars for two days to learn more about ice cream,” Anne Marie said. “And before the business opens for the season, we and our employees have a dinner meeting. We brainstormed for some new ideas.”

She said the idea developed during the conversation.

“We were talking about the potholes about how bad the roads are in the town and the county. Jake (Stevers, employee) came up with the idea of having a Pothole Sundae,” Anne Marie said. “We had the dirt, we have the rocks, and thought about the cone. We put the marshmallows in the cone first. Number one, we’re trying not to sell it that it’s too expensive, and if we filled that whole cone with ice cream, nobody would finish it because it would be too much. The amount of ice cream we put in it is the same amount as a premium sundae.”

The next part was where to find the plastic cones, and the search led to Dollar Tree stores.

“I ordered them by the case from Dollar Tree, and within a day the case was gone,” she said. “Then I was scrambling through every Dollar Tree buying cones. We only made our first one last Saturday at 8 p.m., and used the whole case on Sunday. We’ve made at least 100 sundaes so far. Everyone is loving it.”

At one table four people sat and each enjoyed a Pothole Sundae as a pre-game treat before heading to a softball game in Pine Grove. Two were members of the Shenandoah Valley team, Abbie Davis, Turkey Run, and Kareena Livergood, Frackville. They were joined by Kelly Livergood and Tyler Livergood. All are regulars, and when asked what brings them back, Davis immediately said, “What we’re eating. Everything.”

“The staff is so friendly,” Kareena said. “And they let the kids design their own sundaes.

Anne Marie said the shop will hold its Chillin’ and Grillin’ event on Saturday with St. Louis ribs platters, which was popular last year, and next week begins the Super Sundae Challenge. Those who are up to the challenge will try to eat a sundae with 12 scoops of ice cream, many toppings, a banana and more. If they eat it within 20 minutes, then the sundae is free, a special T-shirt is awarded and their name goes on special “Wall of Fame” board. If the contestant can’t eat in the allotted time, then it costs $17.99.

“People have been asking for it and when we are bringing it back,” Anne Marie said.

She added that Chill Out won in two categories in The Republican-Herald Readers’ Choice Awards this year.

Contact the writer: jusalis@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023

On Monday, Americans will observe Memorial Day.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it began in the years following the Civil War to recognize those lost while fighting in that war. Later expanded, it now honors the men and women who died while serving in the U. S. military. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by paying tribute to deceased family members who served in the military, whether they were lost during service or not. Each year, visitors gather at monuments and parades. A National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress in 2000, asks Americans to pause for one minute at 3 p.m., local time, in an act of national unity.

We offer a heartfelt and solemn thank you to those who served and gave all for our country. Our military is the backbone of America and we would not be who we are today had it not been for the bravery, dedication and loyalty of our servicemen and women. Let them never be forgotten.

Are you tired of the routine cookout during the Memorial Day weekend and are looking for something different? Lucky for you, there are events to get you out and away from the grill.

Bethesda Evangelical Congregataionl Church in Schuylkill Haven will host its fourth annual Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. In addition to beautiful vehicles on display, the free event will feature music, food and baked goods for purchase and a silent auction.

The New Ringgold Fire Company announces its annual Bike Run will be held Saturday. Sign up from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Entertainment is from 4 to 7 p.m. There will be food, refreshments and prizes. The fee is $20 per person.

The Pottsville Kiwanis will hold a Kauffman’s Chicken Barbecue from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Boyer’s Food Market, Pottsville. Price is $8. Call 570-622-3501 for details.

The Altamont Fire Company will be cooking away for an All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast at 8 a.m. Sunday. Eggs your way, a variety of pancakes, French toast, ham, bacon, sausage, scrapple, toast, coffee and juice will be available for purchase for $9.

The Good American Hose Company in Mahanoy City has a Food Truck Festival and Craft Show slated for Sunday. Enjoy local ethnic fare and specialty items. It will be held rain or shine.

A Memorial Day parade and ceremony will be held in Pine Grove on Monday. The parade will start at 9 a.m., followed by a service to remember deceased veterans at St. John’s Cemetery.

Sweet Arrow Lake County Park, Pine Grove, reminds you of its family-fun holiday weekend packed with festive activities. They’ll open the Canoe Launch on Saturday. Canoes, kayaks and rowboats will be available for rent for the long weekend on a first-come basis. Call 570-345-8952 for details. They’re offering free canoeing and kayaking lessons at 2 p.m. Monday. Advance registration is required by calling 570-345-8952. You can also fish for free on Monday and no license is required. Finally, you are invited to a free Memorial Day concert at 6 p.m. Monday. Take your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the jazz concert.

The Tamaqua Public Library continues its 10-cent book sale through June 9. Now’s the time to stock up on some great reads.

Clerical aides

Responsibility: Choose from a variety of assignments. Help staff with clerical tasks, organize and/or run informational events as well as events for children and families, tutor those seeking a GED.

Times: As needed or available.

Skills: For volunteers ages 55 and older. Orientation and/or training required.

Location: COGI, Pottsville

Call: Darla Troutman, RSVP of Schuylkill County, 570-622-3103.

Community Volunteers in Action is the volunteer center for Schuylkill County. Use the preceding contact information for those specific opportunities and search other listings on our website at www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Find us on Facebook. Call us at 570-628-1426 or email jjohnston@co.schuylkill.pa.us.

POTTSVILLE — Schuylkill County soon will have another pathologist available to help with autopsies, as the commissioners approved on Wednesday a contract with a Bethlehem doctor to perform them for the rest of the year.

Under the terms of the contract, Dr. Mohamed Abdullah will perform post-mortem autopsy services, assisting Dr. Richard P. Bindie, at the licensed mobile morgue at Simon Kramer Cancer Institute, New Philadelphia. The institute is where Dr. David J. Moylan III’s office is located.

“He is certified in clinical pathology,” Moylan said of Abdullah. “He’s an excellent guy.”

The county’s contract with Abdullah runs through Dec. 31, but is renewable one year at a time.

Moylan said that Bindie, who has performed approximately 6,000 autopsies in his career, is almost 80 years old and could use an assistant.

While the vote to hire Abdullah was unanimous, it was not for William L.J. Burke, Port Carbon, whom the commissioners voted 2-1 to hire as an assistant public defender.

Commissioner Gary J. Hess voted no, saying Burke already is solicitor for the Recorder of Deeds and Senior Services offices.

“This is not against Mr. Burke,” Hess said. “He holds a number of positions. I’m just not in favor of (holding multiple county positions).”

However, commissioners Chairman George F. Halcovage Jr. and Commissioner Frank J. Staudenmeier voted for Burke, and later joined First Deputy Controller Ronald Zimmerman and Chief Public Defender Karen L. Domalakes on the county Salary Board in approving Burke’s annual pay of $35,116.37. Hess again voted no on Burke’s salary.

Also at Wednesday’s meeting, Treasurer Linda L. Marchalk introduced the new deputy treasurer, Nea Griffin, Frackville, who replaces Diana Bashinsky, who took a job in the state attorney general’s office.

“She brings to the county a very detailed banking background,” Marchalk said of Griffin, who started working on Monday.

Griffin said she has worked at Hidden River Credit Union, Heritage National Bank (now part of Santander Bank) and Miners Bank.

In other business, the commissioners

• Voted to apply for a state grant of $1,864,466 for juvenile justice services, an increase of $96,795. The money will be for existing programs, Bender said.

“They generally get that,” he said.

•Approved a three-year contract with DocuLynx, Omaha, Nebraska, effective June 1, for putting county tax records on disc to facilitate viewing.

•Approved two supplemental budget appropriations for 2018: $750,000 for real estate/engineering and $90,000 for the Tax Claim Bureau. Bender said the state Department of Transportation should reimburse the $750,000, while the $90,000 is for advertising costs for judicial sales of properties.

“It’s something the law requires us to do,” Bender said of the advertising costs.

•Approved a contract for $40,210 with Miller Bros. Construction Inc., Schuylkill Haven, for work at the Barry Township Municipal Building. Bender said the renovations, which are funded as part of the Community Development Block Grant program, will include making entryways and bathrooms more compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

•Voted to apply to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency for $250,000 in federal Services Training Officers Prosecutors funding. Bender said the money will be used by Pottsville police, the district attorney’s office, Schuylkill Women in Crisis and the Sexual Abuse Resource Counseling Center.

“We’ve run our program a number of years,” he said. The money helps to fund a part-time assistant district attorney’s position and to compensate the city police for costs of handling their cases, according to Bender.

• Approve a budget adjustment of $1,000 for the prison. County Finance Director Paul E. Buber said the adjustment moves money from one line item to another and does not involve additional spending.

Contact the writer: pbortner@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6014

In the county court, Judge Jacqueline L. Russell accepted guilty pleas on Wednesday from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, these people:

Kevin E. Holmes, 42, of Newark, New Jersey; four counts of simple assault and two of disorderly conduct; six years probation, $100 in CJEA payments, 40 hours community service and no contact with the victims. Prosecutors withdrew one count each of burglary, possessing instrument of crime and defiant trespass and four of harassment.

Joshua S. Honey, 21, of Tamaqua; possessing instrument of crime and criminal mischief; time served to 23 months in prison with immediate parole, $100 in CJEA payments, $2,485 restitution, 10 hours community service and no contact with the victims. Prosecutors withdrew two counts each of terroristic threats, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and harassment, one of agricultural vandalism and an additional count of criminal mischief.

Richard W. Klare Jr., 29, of Valley View; burglary, theft and criminal mischief; 23 months probation, $3,400 restitution and no contact with the victims. Prosecutors withdrew charges of conspiracy, receiving stolen property, criminal trespass and loitering and prowling at nighttime.

Christopher Metz, 19, of Mahanoy Plane; fleeing or eluding police and driving without a license; 12 months probation consecutive to his current sentence, $700 in fines, $50 CJEA payment and 20 hours community service. Prosecutors withdrew charges of driving under suspension, careless driving and failure to drive at a safe speed.

Todd W. Neifert Jr., 35, of Elizabethville; receiving stolen property; 12 months probations, $50 CJEA payment, $3,000 restitution and 20 hours community service.

Jason J. Ruskuski, 38, of Coal Township; receiving stolen property; one to two years in a state correctional institution consecutive to his current sentence, $50 CJEA payment and $13,786 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of conspiracy and one of theft.

Holly A. Schaeffer-Heiser, 34, of Schuylkill Haven; possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, DUI while suspended and possession of a controlled substance; six to 12 months in prison, $1,000 fine, $100 SAEF payment, $50 bench warrant fee, $226 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Harrisburg, 30 hours community service, drug and alcohol evaluation and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, one each of DUI and possession of a small amount of marijuana and an additional count of possession of a controlled substance.

Krystal L. Semerod, 33, of Sunbury; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $50 CJEA payment, $50 bench warrant fee, 20 hours community service and drug and alcohol evaluation.

In other recent criminal court action, a Middleport woman will not have to spend more time in prison after admitting Monday to a Schuylkill County judge that she stole money from a car, tried to do it on a second and possessed drugs and paraphernalia on a third.

Kimberly J. Scanlan, 24, pleaded guilty to theft from a motor vehicle and public drunkenness in one case, attempted theft from a motor vehicle and driving under suspension in a second and possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under suspension in a third. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of disorderly conduct.

Judge James P. Goodman accepted the plea and, pursuant to an agreement between prosecutors and the defendant, sentenced Scanlan to time served to 12 months in prison with immediate parole, and payment of costs, $525 in fines, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $100 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and $239 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Harrisburg.

State police at Schuylkill Haven alleged Scanlan possessed methamphetamine and paraphernalia on July 4, 2017, in Pine Grove Township, and tried to steal from a car on Aug. 19, 2017, in Palo Alto.

In the other case, Saint Clair police alleged Scanlan stole $10 from a car on Sept. 26, 2017, in the borough.

All defendants who were sentenced must pay costs as a part of their sentences.

Contact the writer: pbortner@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6014

Deeds

Cass Township — Brian D. and Judy L. Mull to Matthew Allen Mull; 0.22-acre property; $1.

East Brunswick Township — Miller Group Holdings LP to Miller Group Holdings LP; 1005 Summer Valley Road; $1.

East Union Township — Eagle Rock Resort Co. to Jerry Paul D. and Analiza I. Zorilla; Lot 123WS, Eagle Rock; $40,299.

Eagle Rock Resort Co. to Dwight Castillo; Lot 232HF4, Eagle Rock; $28,179.

John and Diana Lau Sheung Dong to Eagle Rock Resort Co.; Lot 424WS, Eagle Rock; $50,054.59.

Charles Kovacsi to Raphael Mircea; 42-44-46-48-50 Pine St., Sheppton; $124,000.

Gordon — Wilmington Savings Fund Society FSB to Jing Ling Gong; 226 W. Biddle St.; $21,000.

Hubley Township — Jeremy A. Ricker and Elizabeth G. Ricker to Jeremy A. and Cynthia M. Ricker; 2685 W. Main St., Spring Glen; $1.

Kline Township — Anna Marie Ruby to Robert M. Ruby, Janine M. Vigoda and Kevin J. Ruby; 19 Center St., Kelayres; $1.

Mahanoy Township — Joseph R. and Bernadine H. Miller to Samuel J. and Kelly Ann Slimmer; 1255 W. Centre St., Boston Run; $1.

Ann Marie Mummey to Gerald S. and Nancy A. Mrocza; 156 Park Place Road, Shoemakers; $7,000.

Minersville — Gary P. Rada, individually and as attorney in fact for John F. Rada, and Richard J. Rada to David Martin Cantwell; 303 Penn St.; $26,000.

Rose Ann Petrusky to Jonathan Schlegel; 543 N. Third St.; $24,000.

Norwegian Township — Thomas E. and Diane M. Noga to Matthew A. and Danielle E. Guarna; 24 Deer Park Drive; $195,000.

Tamaqua — Sylvia A. Cordeiro, executrix of the Estate of Margaret Narf, to Sylvia A. and Francis A. Cordeiro; 119 Mahanoy St.; $1.

Access Services Inc. to Stephen Cope; property on Schuylkill Avenue; $71,500.

Wayne Township — Scott Michael, executor of the Estate of Susie Mae Saxton, to Andrew S. and Monica A. Barlet; 283 and 284 Hogan Drive, Lake Wynonah; $6,000.

POTTSVILLE — Bringing people into Schuylkill County Prison should not be hard on law enforcement, the chairman of the county prison board said Wednesday in urging that the admission process should be made more efficient.

President Judge William E. Baldwin said the board should appoint a committee to devise ideas on how to make streamlining the process a reality.

“The sally port (the entrance to the prison) gets really jammed up,” Baldwin said. As a result, he said, it takes a long time to admit a prisoner, thereby tying up prison employees and law enforcement personnel.

Baldwin said the committee should include representatives of the sheriff’s and district attorney’s offices, as well as state and local police officers.

The board also honored two correctional officers who are leaving: Joseph Connors, who will be retiring on June 1 after serving more than 22 years at the prison, and Charles Naradko, a part-time guard since Aug. 21, 2017, who will be taking a similar job with the state Department of Corrections.

“Both men were good officers,” Warden Eugene W. Berdanier said.

Berdanier said the prison population is up to 253, including 194 male inmates and 59 female ones. That does not include the 80 outsourced inmates who are serving their time in other counties’ prisons, including four in Berks, 38 in Centre, 15 in Columbia, 11 in Lackawanna and 12 in Snyder, he said.

Berdanier said the average number of outsourced inmates in April was 75, while the average population of the prison was 239. He said the cost of the outsourced inmates in April was $135,249.74, while the total cost for 2018 was $334,619.74.

Contact the writer: pbortner@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6014

POTTSVILLE — Michael J. Cardamone is the newest member of the Pottsville Area school board.

He was among six candidates interviewed by the school board May 16.

Cardamone is no stranger to the board, having served on it before. He didn’t run in the previous election because he had to focus on parts of his professional life, he said.

There was an opening because former school board member Scott Thomas resigned in March to move out of the area and accept another position with his employer. His resignation was effective April 30.

Cardamone, 73, will fill the remainder of Thomas’ term — until December 2019.

Each of the six candidates, Cardamone, Craig Shields, Maryann Conway, Robert Hoppe, Robert Lipton and Matthew Newton were asked the same two questions by Pottsville Area Superintendent Jeffrey Zwiebel: “Why would you like to become a member of the Pottsville Area School District Board of Directors?” and “If you are the selected candidate, how can you make a difference for the district and the board?”

Board members also had the opportunity to ask questions of each candidate.

A candidate had to receive five votes to be appointed to the board. The final two candidates were Shields and Cardamone; board members Ann Blankenhorn, Christina DiCello, Pat Moran, Mike Stank and Karen Rismiller voted for Cardamone.

Board members William Davidson, Noble C. “Bud” Quandel and Jerome Urban voted for Shields.

Cardamone, a retired professor of physics and professor emeritus at Penn State Schuylkill, said he wants to give back to the community. Becoming a member of the school board is one way he can do that. He understands there are limitations financially in the district.

“I have a genuine fondness for this district and this community,” he said.

In other business, the district put a proposed revised dress code on its website. Approval for the changes, which apply to the 2018-19 school year, will be sought at the June meeting. The changes are to simplify the dress code, board members said.

Several personnel actions were taken, including accepting the resignation for retirement of Sally Yoder, a clerical employee at the Academic Center who has been with the district 28 years, effective Sept. 28, and for Ralph Jenkins, outside crew employee, effective July 15. He has been a district employee for 17 years. The board also accepted the resignation for retirement reasons for Veida Bartholomew, a clerical employee at the John S. Clarke Elementary Center, effective Sept. 28. She has been with the district for 21 years.

Brad Ross was appointed head custodian for the high school and John S. Clarke Elementary Center with an annual salary of $48,750 effective July 1.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

Elizabethville

Information about the Elizabethville Area Historical Society, 100 E. Main St., is available at its website at www.elizabethvillehistory.org or on Facebook: Elizabethville Area Historical Society.

Mahanoy City

The Mahanoy City Fire Department will conduct its annual boot drive from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at intersections in the borough. In an event release, firefighters urged the public to “support your local volunteers.”

Mahanoy City

The Mahanoy City Public Library is sponsoring a fundraiser trip to the Hollywood Casino on June 14. The bus will leave at 9 a.m. from the former Service Electric lot and depart from the casino at 4 p.m. for the return trip. The cost is $25 with $30 in slot play and a $5 food voucher from the casino. A valid photo ID must be shown to receive casino rebates. For reservations or more information, call 570-773-3365, 570-929-1012 or 570-778-6956.

Mahanoy City

The Blessed Teresa Golden Age group is accepting reservations for a bus trip it is sponsoring on Aug. 11 to Resorts Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The cost is $35 and the bus will depart from Mahanoy City at 8 a.m. For reservations or more information, call 570-773-1753.

Minersville

The New Minersville Firehouse Bikers group is sponsoring a basket auction to benefit the St. Joseph Center, Pottsville, on June 8 and 9, in Good Shepherd School cafeteria, 139 Spruce St. (enter cafeteria in bock of school on Linden Street). Auction items include a Murphy Jewelers diamond necklace, Vera Bradley wristlet, concert tickets for ZZ Top, George Thorogood, GTLO, Supertramp and Roger Hodgeson plus a Steelers Antonio Brown autographed photo, Flyers autographed hockey puck, Reading Phillies tickets, numerous baskets and gift cards. Shops and drops will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. June 8 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 9. Tickets will be drawn starting at 1 p.m. June 9. A list of winning tickets and names will be posted in the New Minersville Firehouse starting at 3 p.m. June 9.

Pottsville

M&T Senior Movies at the Majestic will include “On the Town!” at 10 a.m. Wednesday hosted by the Pottsville Recreation Commission and sponsored by M&T Bank at the Majestic Theater, North Centre Street. Admission is free; all are welcome. For more information, email majestic@pad-co.com.

Pottsville

The Nativity BVM High School Class of 1968 will celebrate its 50-year reunion Sept. 15 at the Schuylkill Country Club, Orwigsburg. Formal invitations will be sent in late July. The committee is seeking the current address of the following classmates: Michael Fanelli, Louise Gilbert Hartline, Michael Richards and Mary Yuhas Tucker. Anyone with information regarding these classmates, or with any questions or concerns, may email larrylonergan130@gmail.com.

Summit Station

The annual Bear Creek Festival will be held from noon to 4 p.m. June 3 at the Schuylkill County Fairgrounds. During the free event, members of the Blue Mountain 4-H Livestock Club members will help festival attendees learn more about agriculture, according to a festival release. The club “is all about raising livestock animals” and the members will step “a little outside their realm” to the art of wool spinning with participation from visitors. The family-oriented festival, according to the release, will also offer visitors other fun activities related to all things environmental, outdoors, natural and agricultural in Schuylkill County. There will be performances by Van Wagner at 1 p.m. and Jay Smar at 2:15 p.m., Schuylkill County Trout Unlimited’s annual fishing derby and activities for craft lovers who will be able to build their own bluebird house with Home Depot and paint their own flower pot to take home. There will also be an “animal talk” with Red Creek Wildlife Center personnel, antique tractor pulls and loading/firing demonstrations with Blue Ridge Rifles. For more information, call Kim Morgan, Blue Mountain 4-H Livestock Club leader, at 570-739-2627 or email kamorgan11@gmail.com.