Although not buried treasure, historian Ross H. Schwalm will treasure it.

A letter written 50 years ago by his parents, Ben and Gertrue E. Schwalm, had been left for Ross and his siblings and was among personal letters uncovered in a time capsule opening Saturday in Tower City. The time capsule opening was part of the Porter-Tower Sesquicentennial celebration festivities.

President of the Johannes Schwalm Historical Association Inc., Ross Schwalm traveled from his home in Woodbridge, Virginia, to reconnect with his childhood friends in Tower City and witness the time capsule opening.

“I took photos of the envelope and letter and sent them to my three sisters and my wife, Carol, in Virginia. All were touched by the sentiments of my mother and father. They were glad I was present to receive the letter,” he said.

“The letter is making the rounds to Ben and Gertrue’s 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, one who was just born in Birmingham, Alabama, last week,” he said.

The letter was dated Aug. 31, 1968, during the community’s centennial, and was addressed to the surviving children of the couple. It read: “Mother and Dad wish you a happy 150th anniversary of this town of Tower City. We hope it brings back memories of our 100th birthday in the year 1968. We have nothing to leave but our love and those memories. Love always and forever, Mother and Dad.”

Ross Schwalm’s mother’s name was Gertrue — there was no “d.” She was the last of 13 children and her mother hated her own name, which was Gertrude, so she changed it for her daughter, Ross Schwalm said.

“Mom worked as a clerk and lunch meat/fresh meat server at Reiser’s Grocery Store in Tower City. She also did seamstress work on the side and made all of our centennial costumes,” he said. “She was in the 1968 parade with the Trinity United Church of Christ Women’s Group. Their float was in the shape of a church. The float sat in our yard for months after the parade and all of the neighborhood kids would come to my house to play in the church. My sister, Cathy, and I were really popular since we had the ‘church.’ ”

They grew up in a home on 1 S. Hand St., which was later torn down and is now a vacant lot. Saturday’s sesquicentennial parade will go past the former Schwalm homestead, he said.

“Dad was a traveling salesman for Tallman Bros. Supply Co. in Muir. He started there after he came home from WWII once he got some technical training on the GI Bill. In the 1950s, he sold farming equipment and transitioned to industrial equipment when Tallman Bros. changed their business model. He was a cousin of George W. and Robert Tallman of Tallman Bros.

“By 1968, he sold mining hardware and industrial hardware by driving all over central Pennsylvania, delivering parts orders or taking new orders. He drove a panel truck with lots of spare parts that companies would need. He was a bartender at the Tower City Legion for years,” he said.

Ross Schwalm’s father died in 1972 and his mother in 1994.

“Because they were in the public eye, everyone knew them. People still talk highly of them when they figure out who I am,” he said.

Ross Schwalm was across the street from the time capsule site at the American Legion Post 468, working on an upcoming historical presentation, when he found out there was something left from his family. The items from the capsule were taken to a nearby tent and sorted.

The envelope was addressed to Ross Schwalm; his brother, Ben, who passed away in 2009; his oldest sister, Sue Myers, Maryland; his middle sister, Elaine Stine, North Carolina; and his youngest sister, Cathy Welsh, Tennessee. His sisters were all watching the event on Facebook Live. Myers and Tower City Councilwoman Christine Reiner both had sent him a text message informing him of the letter.

“Christine picked up the letter for me and was with me and my high school friend, Mary Kay Murray, when I opened it and read it at the Legion,” he said.

“JSHA is always on the lookout for original source documents like these sorts of letters to tell the history of Hessians and their descendants,” he said.

Johannes Schwalm Historical Association Inc. will have free history talks and displays on the American Revolution, Civil War, World War I and Vietnam starting at 10 a.m. July 15 at Valley View Park.

Presenters will be George Tallman on Vietnam, Christine Reiner on World War I, Ross Schwalm on Civil War and Luanne Reese on the American Revolution. It includes free homemade kettle bean soup, hot dogs and birch beer. The day concludes with coffee, cookies, cakes and pies in a traditional German social hour ending at 4 p.m.

JSHA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to researching German auxiliary troops, generically called Hessians, who remained in America after the Revolutionary War, according to the website, www.jsha.org.

“JSHA was named in recognition of Johannes Schwalm, a Hessian, serving in von Knyphausen’s Regiment, which along with other German auxiliary troops, was captured at the battle of Trenton. Thousands of German auxiliaries to the British Crown remained in America after the Revolution, and many, like Johannes, settled in the Pennsylvania Dutch area of Pennsylvania. JSHA was organized to pool information of several descendants who were (separately and unknown to each other) researching Johannes and his contemporaries,” the website states.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

Two charged in one incident

HOMETOWN — Rush Township police arrested two people after officers on patrol saw a suspicious person in the area of Plaza Drive around 6 p.m. June 20.

Officers learned that Brittany Kieffer, 22, of Coaldale, recently committed a retail theft from Walmart and the stolen items were recovered, police said.

As a result, police said Kieffer was charged with felony retail theft, criminal trespass, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

She was arraigned and committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $15,000 straight cash bail.

Police said a second person was also charged in the incident.

Amanda Bartenope, 45, of Palmerton, was charged with felony endangering the welfare of children, felony conspiracy to commit retail theft, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and DUI.

Bartenope was also arraigned and committed to Schuylkill County Prison in lieu of $15,000 cash bail.

Both women will no have to appear for preliminary hearings before Magisterial District Judge Stephen J. Bayer, Tamaqua, police said.

DUI checkpoints announced

The North Central Regional Sobriety Checkpoint DUI Taskforce announced that Sobriety Checkpoints and Roving DUI Patrols will be conducted from Friday through July 9 on routes 61, 183, 901, 209, 1006, 309, 1008, 443, 895, 125, 25, 924 and 54.

Travelers are reminded to call 911 if they suspect a drunk driver or to call, toll-free, 1-888-UNDER21, to report underage drinking.

Have you ever been or wanted to be a pen pal to a child in fifth grade? This fall could be more fun than you expected.

Pen pals correspond about all kinds of things, like how times have changed and how they’ve stayed the same over the decades. Students get a view into the past and the adults see the world through fresh eyes. They share meaningful conversations about their favorite likes and dislikes, past experiences and future dreams. And they find that they may have more in common than they would have thought. Students develop a relationship with someone based solely on interests and correspondence, and discover that age is irrelevant.

For more than 20 years, RSVP of Schuylkill County has hosted an Intergenerational Pen Pal Program that links local students with adult pen pals ages 55 and older throughout the school year. Initially, less than 30 students participated, but over the years additional schools and classrooms have been included. Today, participation has increased to three school districts and more than 100 adult writers, many of whom have multiple pen pals.

The program involves volunteers and students exchanging handwritten or computer-generated letters each month from October through May. Identities are kept anonymous, using initials only, and the pen pals get to meet in person at the end of the program for a festive meet and greet.

The popular program continues to receive favorable comments from teachers and students alike. Not only does the correspondence strengthen writing and communication skills, it bridges the generation gap with meaningful interaction.

During my years as an RSVP pen pal, I’ve met some wonderful young men and women with whom I’ve shared common interests and laughter. We’ve exchanged favorite recipes, recommended vacation spots, shared joys and hopes, and I’ve been gifted with unique, personalized artwork. Each fall, I await my next new friends.

School districts that will be participating in the 2018-19 program are Saint Clair Area, Mahanoy Area and Tamaqua Area.

RSVP is currently seeking kind and spirited adults who would be interested in touching the lives of young students this fall. They’ll match the volunteer and student based on common interests. Volunteers can choose which school district (or more than one), how many students and the gender they’d prefer.

If you’re age 55 and older and are interested in becoming a pen pal, contact Darla Troutman, RSVP coordinator, at 570-622-3103 or dtroutman@co.schuylkill.pa.us. Background clearances and orientation are required.

The Tamaqua Summer Concert Series continues with a performance by Six to Midnight at 6:30 p.m. today at the Train Station Restaurant platform. Take your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the free concert.

Long-term facility

resident advocate (Ombudsman)

Responsibility: Transitioning to an adult day care or long-term care facility isn’t always easy for a new resident. Be a friendly face that makes the move more carefree while distributing materials on residents’ rights and periodically visiting. You could meet your next good pal.

Times: Flexible, about 1 to 2 hours per month at your convenience.

Skills: Good listener, compassionate. Free two-hour orientation, plus one-day site training required.

Location: Heritage Mills, Tower City; Greenwood Hills, Luther Ridge at Seiders Hill and Eldergarden Adult Day Care, Pottsville; Providence Place, Pine Grove; Green Valley, Pitman; Golden Years and The Birches, Shenandoah; Hometown Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; Rosewood, Schuylkill Haven; St. Luke’s, Coaldale; Tremont Health and Rehabilitation Center, and Pinebrook, Orwigsburg.

Call: Eileen Barlow, MidPenn Legal Services Ombudsman Program, 570-628-3931.

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.

Frackville

The Frackville Midget Football organization will have a clothing drive fundraiser July 7 at Memorial Field, West Pine Street. Pickup is 2 p.m. and items can be dropped off prior to pickup. The group will accept clothing, shoes, briefcases, belts, baby items, blankets, bedding, pillows, curtains, pots, pans, stuffed animals and rag dolls. Items must be placed in tightly tied heavy duty plastic bags. For more information, email walchakamy@gmail.com.

Hegins

The Hegins Art Funfest and Pig Roast is set for 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 7 at Hegins Park, rain or shine. Admission and parking are free. People are asked to bring canned food and nonperishable food items to benefit two food banks in the Tri-Valley area. Proceeds will benefit the Tri-Valley High School Band. The event will include activities for children, a chili cookoff contest, dunk tank, free drawings, a silent auction and wide variety of food. Dutch Master Morgan will provide comedy. Pets are welcome but must be leashed. For more information, call or text 570-590-2895 or 570-617-1322. For the chili contest, the cost is $20 to enter with a $300 first-place prize. The cost to sample chili will be $2 for a chili bracelet.

Minersville

The St. Matthew Travelers of St. Matthew the Evangelist Parish will host trips to Mohegan Sun Casino on July 16 and Aug. 20. The cost is $25 with rebate of $30. The bus will depart from R&J at 8 a.m. and Quandel’s at 8:30 a.m. and leave the casino at 4 p.m. for the return trip. The group will also host a trip Aug. 6 to the Atlantic City Resorts Casino. The cost is $35 with a rebate of $25. The bus will depart from Quandel’s at 8 a.m. and leave Atlantic City at 6 p.m. for the return trip. To make reservations or for more information, call Julie at 570-544-5231 or Millie at 570-628-5413.

Nuremberg

The Nuremberg-Weston Volunteer Fire Company will hold its monthly breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon Sunday at the fire hall, 459 Hazle St., Weston. The menu will include a choice of eggs and home fries, pancakes or French toast, sausage or ham and a beverage. The cost is $6 for a small platter and $7 for a large platter. Takeouts will be available, and all are welcome.

Nuremberg

The Nuremberg community vacation Bible school will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. July 22-27 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church. All area children from 3 (if potty trained) through those who just completed sixth grade are invited to attend. For more information or to register, contact Rhonda at 570-384-3913 or rhonda66@pa.metrocast.net or Pastor Phil at 570-384-3645 or revphilbevsmith@aol.com.

Pottsville

The Pottsville Free Public Library, 215 W. Market St., will have a used book sale from noon to 2 p.m. Monday sponsored by the Friends of the Library support group. For more information, email lorenzs2@comcast.net.

Sheppton

East Union Township officials are reminding residents that June is the final month to pay 2018 county/municipal taxes at face value. Also, the tax office will be closed July 4 in observance of Independence Day.

Saint Clair

St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church is sponsoring a pilgrimage to Assisi and Rome Oct. 6-15. There will be an information night about the trek at 7 p.m. July 5 in the church hall, 250 E. Hancock St. For more information or a brochure, call 570-429-0701 or 570-429-0370.

Tamaqua

The Zion Lutheran Church culinary team will host an ice cream social from 4 to 8 p.m. July 11 to benefit the Citizens Fire Company. All proceeds will go to the fire company. Light kitchen fare will be available in addition to plenty of ice cream. Zion Lutheran is located at the corner of Mauch Chunk and Greenwood streets.

FRACKVILLE — A Barnesville man charged with selling drugs to a police informant in Ryan Township last year waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday.

Kyle K. Merenda, 23, of 57 Shady Lane, was scheduled to appear before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale on charges of two felony counts of possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance-fentanyl, one felony count of criminal use of a communications facility and one misdemeanor count of possession of a controlled substance-fentanyl.

Instead of the hearing, Merenda, who acted as his own attorney, decided to waive all of the charges against him to Schuylkill County Court.

After doing so, Merenda addressed the court asking for his bail to be reduced from its current $25,000 straight cash.

“I’m just asking for reduced bail,” he said.

Schuylkill County District Attorney Michael A. O’Pake asked Hale to deny the request.

“We strongly oppose a bail reduction,” he said. “The citizens of Schuylkill County are at risk with Mr. Merenda running around on the streets.”

O’Pake said that a jury recently found Merenda not guilty of drug delivery resulting in death and other offenses but asked Hale to consider the fact that Merenda sold the exact same drug, fentanyl, in December that resulted in a woman’s death the year before.

“Mr. Merenda was aware of the dangers of what fentanyl can do,” the district attorney said.

Hale stressed the seriousness of the charges against Merenda.

She said the reason for denying the request was based on the current charges and that she did consider the previous case in rendering her decision.

Merenda not being represented by counsel on Wednesday is the second time in a week he has not had an attorney.

Merenda was scheduled to appear for his hearing on June 20 but Hale granted his request for a continuance in order to allow the man to obtain legal counsel for his defense.

On Wednesday, the public defender’s office said it has not been requested to represent Merenda.

After waiving his hearing, Merenda was returned to Schuylkill County Prison where he is being held on the $25,000 bail as well as a detainer issued in neighboring Luzerne County.

State police Trooper Scott Grochowski of Troop L, Reading, and Detective Troy Greenawald of the Schuylkill County District Attorney’s Office charged Merenda after an incident on Dec. 18 in Ryan Township.

Investigators said a confidential informant said that Merenda was involved in the trafficking of heroin and fentanyl in Schuylkill County prompting the investigation.

On Dec. 18, investigators said the informant contacted Merenda on a cellphone and arranged to meet him at a location in Ryan Township to buy drugs.

Arriving at the pre-planned location investigators said the informant, under surveillance of officers, met with Merenda, handed him pre-recorded money and was given a quantity of heroin-fentanyl.

The informant then gave the drugs to officers who performed a field test that resulted in positive results for fentanyl, investigators said.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013

SHENANDOAH — The Shenandoah Zoning Hearing Board approved a zoning variance request Tuesday that would allow an eatery at the site of the former Sands Restaurant to open.

The rescheduled hearing at the municipal building was to consider a zoning change request from Felix Diaz, Hazleton, before his finalizing the purchase of the property from Monberger Inc., Ringtown.

Board Chairman Daniel Salvadore opened the meeting with member Charles Vascavage attending. Jack Rooney was absent. Tuesday’s meeting was rescheduled from June 21 because Diaz was unable to attend.

Salvadore said the hearing was to consider Diaz’s request to change the residential status of 201 E. Centre St. to commercial. The building includes four apartment units.

“The board would like to know what you are going to do with the building when you purchase it,” Salvadore said to Diaz, who was accompanied by Century 21 real estate broker Brian McCardle and Realtor Jose Valerio. “Give us a little rundown on what your plans are.”

“It is a vacant restaurant. I plan to rent it out as a family restaurant,” Diaz said. “There will be no changes to the apartments. The only change is the restaurant will be opened. How soon? I have no idea. It could be months, it could be a couple of weeks.”

Vascavage asked, “You have no idea who you’re going to rent it out to?”

“It could be a family member or someone else who I don’t know yet,” Diaz replied.

“The only thing I would like to request of you to whoever you rent it out to that they are a good neighbor to all the neighbors down there,” Vascavage said.

Borough Secretary Joseph L. Palubinsky said, “Mr. Diaz, if the board is so inclined to grant you the variance, whoever would consider opening that restaurant will still have to file a zoning application with the Borough of Shenandoah.”

The only person to comment and ask questions about the plan was resident and businesswoman Donna Kulpowicz, who owns commercial property near the restaurant. Her first question was directed to Palubinsky, asking if another hearing would held if someone other than Diaz leases the restaurant. Palubinsky said no hearing would be needed if the zoning hearing board granted the variance.

“When Mr. Diaz opens it himself or whoever is going in there, they would have to fill out a zoning application to ensure that it complies with the order of the zoning board,” Palubinsky said.

Kulpowicz asked Diaz what type of restaurant, with Diaz replying a family restaurant. After, she asked what hours it could be open, Diaz said it would be normal hours for a restaurant, possibly 7 a.m. to 6, 7 or 8 p.m.

She also asked whether apartments would be rented.

“Yes. They are as we speak,” Diaz answered.

“I would again like to say that I am all for new business, but when you have long-term residents and businesses that have to be inconvenienced and have to put our costs, I believe that needs to be considered,” Kulpowicz said. “We all know about costs and inconveniences that occur because we had to deal with them when the current owner opened for a while and then they closed. I had people parking, taking up my tenants’ parking spaces, blocking the entrance and exits.”

She said people would park and refuse to leave when asked. Since it is private property, the borough could not respond. Kulpowicz paid for signs to prevent trespassers and they were removed.

“I have concerns on what is going to happen if a restaurant opens again because I have a very big investment down there,” Kulpowicz said.

She said a nearby apartment building with 12 units is being remodeled, and that will add to the number of vehicles parking in the area.

“If a variance is approved, can there be a contingency put in there that if any businesses or residents in the area have issues, that the borough and the owner would help alleviate the problems?” Kulpowicz asked.

Kulpowicz also asked whether the Sunshine Act had been followed in informing the public in an appropriate time of 24 hours. Palubinsky said notifications for the hearing were posted in the neighborhood and it was advertised. He said when last week’s meeting was tabled; everyone attending was told about it being rescheduled.

Kulpowicz asked about being responsible for signage, fencing or other costs to protect her property because of another business.

Salvadore replied, “Mr. Diaz said he would be a good neighbor. Good neighbors talk and help each other. Whether he opens it or his family opens it, they fill out an application and tell us what they want to do and hours. As far as parking, the board has always granted variances from parking because of the way the town has been built. There is no parking in this town, whether it’s a shoe shop on Coal Street or hairdresser on Lloyd Street. You have a parking lot and it’s easy for someone to park there. Hopefully Mr. Diaz and his customers are good neighbors.”

McCardle made a suggestion: “If it would help, on the lease that Mr. Diaz would have with this proposed tenant, some verbiage could be put in there pertaining to the parking to see that they would adhere on the condition of telling the patrons not to park there, even to the point where we would have signs made for your location not to park or they would be towed away. Would that be fair?”

“Yes,” Kulpowicz agreed.

“Excuse me, the signs would be placed within the restaurant? They wouldn’t be placed on her property,” Palubinsky said.

“We would consider signs in the restaurant not to park in certain areas, and we don’t mind having signs made for your (Kulpowicz) location,” McCardle said. “We have a similar problem in West Hazleton near a restaurant, and ever since they put up signs and a couple of cars were towed away, guess what, word got around real quick.”

Palubinsky said police do not have authority to tow off private property; it is the responsibility of a private property owner to have signage and vehicles removed.

“Would that help?” McCardle asked Kulpowicz.

“Very much,” she said.

Another property owner with a lot who is also concerned about parking was brought up. Kulpowicz and McCardle said signs could be placed there as well.

“I’m all for you opening and would like to see you very successful and willing to work the people of the town,” Kulpowicz said.

Current owners Frank and Charlotte Monberger, who were in attendance, purchased the property in 2006. Palubinsky asked how long the property has been up for sale. They said about a year. The couple said the restaurant was opened until 2010.

Salvadore made the motion to grant the variance, seconded by Vascavage, and both voted in favor.

“Congratulations and good luck,” Salvadore said.

“We’re looking at Spanish- and American-type food restaurant,” Diaz said to The Republican-Herald. “There was a proposal in the family to open it, but I don’t have time.”

Diaz said the four apartments are filled, though one tenant will be leaving soon.

Asked if he plans to keep the name “Sands Restaurant,” Diaz said, “If it’s possible, I will. There are legal issues I have to find out.”

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

HEGINS — The Tri-Valley school board Wednesday approved a $13.7 million general fund budget that increases real estate taxes by more than a mill and reduces programs and staff.

The board voted, 8-0, during the special meeting for the $13,734,982 general fund spending plan for the 2018-19 school year. The budget shows an unreserved fund balance of $4,281. Voting in favor were directors Jerry R. Beaver, Kelly M. Carter, Diane C. Dietrich, Roger D. Heidlebaugh, David J. Miller, Jennifer L. Reed, Carl D. Shankweiler and John E. Schmeltz. Director Guy M. Julian was absent.

Under the budget, the real estate millage will increase 1.066 mills from 33.316 mills to 34.382 mills. The board raised the real estate tax to the maximum allowable under the Act 1 index of 3.2 percent. The median assessed valuation in the district is $31,960, according to Business Manager Jami S. Zelwalk.

Other tax levies would remain the same, including: per capita section 511, $5; per capita 679, $5; occupation tax, $230; earned income tax, 0.5 percent of salaries/wages; realty transfer tax, 1 percent; local service tax, $10.

Earlier this month, the board approved cutting three positions: one art, one physical education and one librarian position. That resulted in the furlough of one employee in elementary art, and the non-renewal of employment of two temporary employees — one each in secondary physical education and one in secondary social studies. There was a realignment of several positions.

Superintendent Mark D. Snyder also shared with the board a copy of the letter that was sent to parents impacted by the need to equalize enrollment in the elementary schools for the 2018-19 school year. Currently, 23 students have been reassigned to Mahantongo Valley Elementary School in Klingerstown from Hegins-Hubley Elementary in Valley View in order to provide “favorable class sizes at each building,” Snyder said.

“This ongoing practice will continue to be utilized as the need arises,” Snyder said.

In other business, the board approved the addition of monthly Committee of the Whole meetings at 6:30 p.m. in the high school library as listed: Aug. 15, Sept. 19, Oct. 17, Nov. 21 and Dec. 19.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

Christina E. Hale

FRACKVILLE — A bench warrant was requested for a Saint Clair man after he failed to appear for his preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville.

Jesse Paul Dembinsky, 32, of 121 E. Carroll St., was scheduled to appear on charges of two counts of simple assault, terroristic threats and harassment as well as one count of disorderly conduct.

In Dembinsky’s absence, Hale ordered all seven charges against him held for court and requested a warrant for the man’s arrest.

Dembinsky was arrested by Saint Clair police Patrolman Frank DiMarco after an incident at his home on April 14.

DiMarco said Dembinsky caused his live-in girlfriend, Jasmine Steinheiser, to suffer injuries when he grabbed her by the hair and repeatedly hit and kicked her and threw her to the ground.

Dembinsky also assaulted Brad Marcosky by hitting and biting him and then chased Marcosky into the street with a 5-inch meat fork, DiMarco said, adding that during the incident Dembinsky also threatened to kill both Steinheiser and Marcosky.

Other court cases included:

Henry Rivera, 28, of State Correctional Institution/Frackville — waived for court: contraband-possession of a telecommunications device by inmate.

Harry Baney, 33, of SCI/ Frackville — waived for court: resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Mark J. Schlauch, 28, of 363 Faux Hill Road, Zion Grove — waived for court: burglary, theft, theft by deception and receiving stolen property.

Giacomo Salera, 52, of 227 S. Lehigh Ave., Frackville — waived for court: false reports and false reports-theft.

Joseph M. Hollenbach, 58, of 1401 Chestnut Road, Orwigsburg — waived for court: DUI, DUI-highest rate, careless driving and disregard for single traffic lane.

William J. Thomas Jr., 23, of 2406 Railroad St., Mahanoy Plane — held for court: driving a vehicle without a valid inspection, possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jeremiah L. Ney, 21, of 49 Chelton St., Shenandoah —waived for court: DUI-controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, making repairs to or selling offensive weapons, disregard for single traffic lane, driving at an unsafe speed and careless driving.

Trevor Jefferson, 31, of 15 S. White St., Shenandoah — waived for court: bad checks.

Jennifer H. Hause, 38, of 107 N. Line St., Frackville — waived for court: careless driving, duties at a stop sign and DUI-controlled substance.

Michael S. Soboleski, 53, of 400 S. Lehigh Ave., Frackville — waived for court: selling a controlled substance with a known trademark.

Martin J. Reese, 67, of 90 N. Center St., Box 297, Ringtown — withdrawn: duties at a stop sign. Waived for court: DUI-highest rate.

Amy Lynn Yucha, 31, of 1529 Walnut St., Ashland —waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked and violating sound levels.

Joshua A. Phillips, 33, of 1529 Walnut St., Ashland — waived for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Matthew D. Jarrett, 33, of 138 E. Market St., Mahanoy City — waived for court: DUI, DUI-high rate and exceeding the speed limit.

PINE GROVE -- Heavy rains overnight caused flooding in the borough Thursday morning and motorists are advised to find other ways through the area.

According to Police Chief Thomas Trotter, state routes 501 and 645 are closed this morning and, even though the water has begun to recede, the southern end of the borough remains flooded.

Check back to the republicanherald.com for further details and read Friday's edition of The Republican-Herald for complete coverage.  

PORT CARBON — Port Carbon police have obtained an arrest warrant for a Minersville man, charging him with making threats at the office of Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko on Tuesday.

Police Chief Joseph Ferraro charged Jonathan Falu, 30, of 504 Laurel St., with felony intimidation of a witness or victim, one summary count of disorderly conduct and two summary counts of harassment.

Ferraro said the incident occurred just after 1 p.m. when he was called to the office by Assistant District Attorney Julie Werdt who said she was representing a victim, Rosa Galarza, where the suspect waived his right to a hearing.

Falu, the brother of the suspect, entered and yelled at Galarza, saying she was lying about his brother and that she was not going to get away with it. Falu then cursed the victim and cursed at Werdt, telling her to shut up, Ferraro said.

Saint Clair police Sgt. Joseph Leskin told Falu to leave the building and as he did, he continued to yell obscenities and cause a disturbance, Ferraro said, adding that Falu then got into a vehicle and fled at a high rate of speed.

In reference to the incident, Plachko said such behavior will not be tolerated in his courtroom, nor should it be tolerated anywhere.

“Mr. Falu’s actions are not only an attack on Ms. Galarza but an attack on the entire justice system,” the judge said.

“Any form of intimidation of a victim or a witness in the sanctity of the courtroom or anywhere for that matter will never be tolerated,” Plachko said.

Since the event happened in his courtroom, Plachko said he will be recusing himself from the case because his courtroom staff members may be called to testify in future court proceedings.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013

Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital

To William and Krista Roshoe Weikel, Frackville, a daughter, June 16. Maternal grandparents are Gary and Linda Roshoe, Ringtown. Paternal grandparents are Deb Mather and William Weikel, Ashland.

Update given on inmate’s death

A man serving a life sentence for killing another man in West Mahanoy Township died Tuesday at SCI/Benner, Benner Township, of natural causes.

Schuylkill County District Attorney Michael A. O’Pake said he received confirmation Thursday that confirmed the death of Thomas J. Petrousky, 57, was due to natural causes.

Petrousky was convicted of killing David R. Halaburda, 50, inside the home they shared at 256 S. Wylam St. on April 28, 2014.

In March 2016, a Schuylkill County jury found Petrousky guilty of first-degree murder, possessing instruments of crime, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and two counts of aggravated assault.

The first-degree murder conviction carried a mandatory sentence of life in prison, which in Pennsylvania carries no chance of parole.

Police: Woman was DUI with son in car

SHENANDOAH — Shenandoah police charged a New Philadelphia woman with driving under the influence with a child in the car after an incident around 9 p.m. May 9 near Mulligan’s Bar, 316 S. Main St.

Police said Cynthia M. Dengler, 33, of 31 Silver Creek Road, was charged with DUI, DUI-controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a child.

It was in that area officers found Dengler inside a vehicle with the engine running and the headlights on. An odor of alcohol was coming from inside the vehicle, and police said Dengler had slurred speech showed other signs of being under the influence.

Inside the vehicle at the time was Dengler’s 4-year-old son who was turned over the custody of his grandmother.

A subsequent blood test determined that Dengler had alcohol, methamphetamine and ethanol in her system at the time of the stop, police said.

Man seen driving erratically charged

SHENANDOAH — Shenandoah police charged a borough man after a traffic stop around 3:15 a.m. May 15 in the unit block of East Centre Street.

Police said Jeffrey D. Capiga, 34, of 211 S. Ferguson St., was charged with DUI-controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, general lighting requirements, driving on the wrong side of the road and a red traffic light violation.

Police said officers stopped a vehicle driven by Capiga after seeing him driving on the wrong side of the road, drive on a sidewalk and then travel through a red light.

Capiga appeared to be under the influence and police said a subsequent investigation found he was in possession of a rock-like substance that field tested positive for methamphetamine.

Equipment damaged at demolition site

FRACKVILLE — State police at Frackville are investigating a criminal mischief incident that occurred around 1:30 p.m. Sunday at the site of the former Schuylkill Mall in New Castle Township.

Police said someone smashed the windows on five heavy duty excavators and one front end loader that were parked inside a chain-link fence surrounding the demolition site.

Three of the windows were valued at $1,000 each while the remaining three were valued at $500 each, police said.

The demolition equipment is owned by Bill Flynn Jr. Police said the total estimated loss is $4,500.

Anyone with information is asked to call troopers at 570-874-5300.

Police: Man in idling car was on drugs

SHENANDOAH — A Willow Grove man was charged by Shenandoah police after officers were called around 11:45 p.m. Wednesday for a suspicious vehicle at Furnace and Cleveland streets.

Police said Lamel Shameck Duffy, 28, of 1017 York Road Apt. M, was charged with DUI-controlled substance, false reports to law enforcement, false identification to law enforcement, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while under DUI suspension, violations concerning licenses and scattering rubbish.

After receiving a call about a vehicle running for about three hours, officers found Duffy inside with an odor of marijuana detected.

When asked for identification, police said Duffy provided an incorrect name but then eventually gave his proper name that led to it being determined that his license was suspended.

Police said officers found two marijuana cigarettes inside the vehicle and Duffy admitted ingesting marijuana but refused to take a blood test.

No injuries in 2-vehicle collision

POTTSVILLE — Two people escaped injury when their vehicles collided around 2:10 p.m. Wednesday on the Gordon Nagle Trail, just south of SPCA Road in North Manheim Township.

State police at Schuylkill Haven said Vincent J. Anthony, 18, of Frackville, was driving a 1995 Jeep Wrangler west when he lost control along a right curve on the wet roadway, entered the eastbound lane and struck a guide rail along the south berm.

The SUV then lost its left front tire and continued southwest for about 184 feet and struck an eastbound 2015 Ford Transit van driven by Jeffrey Deurer, 63, of Slatington.

Police said both drivers were not injured and that Anthony will be cited as a result of the crash.

Thief takes items, damages building

SHENANDOAH — State police at Frackville are investigating a burglary that occurred between 6 p.m. June 22 and 4:40 p.m. Sunday at 22 N. Market St.

Police said someone entered the building and stole items owned by Christopher Mease, 44, of Shenandoah, that were valued at $1,145.

The items stolen included a 50-inch Phillips flatscreen television, a nylon mesh DVD sleeve, DVDs with recorded copies of movies and a Sony Playstation and controller.

Police also said $45 in damage was caused to a door jamb at the building that is owned by Glenn Paterson, 64, of Shenandoah.

Anyone with information is asked to call troopers at 570-874-5300.

PSP Frackville announces patrols

FRACKVILLE — State police at Frackville announced that sobriety checkpoints will be conducted through their coverage area between July 12 and 28.

During the checkpoints, police stop vehicles at selected locations to observe drivers for behaviors normally associated with being drug or alcohol impaired.

The goal of the checkpoints are to reduce the number of alcohol- and drug-related fatal and serious crashes and reduce the number of DUI drivers on Pennsylvania roadways.

MINERSVILLE — The issue plaguing the Minersville Community Pool has been resolved.

A basketball was found in a pipe in the pool Thursday afternoon. It had been blocking water from reaching a pump. The pump was repaired earlier in June with the belief it was the malfunction.

Draining of the pool started Wednesday and was completed around 2 p.m. Thursday. Members of the Sewer and Water Department, and borough and street employees inserted a camera into the blocked pipe to see what was causing the problem. Borough Manager Bob Mahalchick stated earlier Thursday morning that the best-case scenario would be the pipe was blocked and the crew could remove the item and begin prepping the pool for its opening. The worst-case scenario would have been finding nothing in the pipe, which would have meant a valve issue. If that had happened, the ground would have been excavated to replace the valve.

They got their wish when they found a basketball inside the pipe. It was removed with a pole. The crew also took a further look to make sure nothing else was in the pipe. The pool will be refilled and chemicals will be added. It is expected to open Tuesday or Wednesday next week, according to Mahalchick.

Mahalchick believes the ball got in the pipe by a suspected act of vandalism that took place earlier this spring when the pool was being re-caulked. During that process, the grates were off the bottom, exposing the pipe. It is thought that the ball was either thrown in or shoved in deliberately. Either way, the problem has been resolved and the pool should be ready to go by the middle portion of next week.

“We’re all happy and excited about that,” Mahalchick said.

Mahalchick gave thanks to the Pottsville pool for allowing Minersville season pass-holders to use the passes at that pool while the Minersville pool was closed.

The daily admission for the Minersville pool is $5 for adults ages 18-54; $3 for students ages 4-17; and $2 for pre-school children ages 3 and younger and senior citizens. Evening hours from 5-7 p.m. are half off the daily rate. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Without an adult, children under 10 will be denied access to the pool. Pool hours are 12-7 p.m. daily. The closing date for the Minersville pool remains Aug. 26.

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

POTTSVILLE — Dana and Paul Valentine of Tamaqua said they don’t mind the scorching heat that is on its way.

“I’d rather the heat” than the cold, Dana Valentine said.

The couple was shopping at Lowe’s in Pottsville on Thursday, but not air conditioners. They have several air conditioners at home, mostly for the two dogs.

However, many customers may be in to pick them up with the heat wave to begin this weekend, according to John Lewis, assistant store manager.

“The hotter it gets, the more we will sell. We have plenty of everything,” Lewis said.

Temperatures are expected to top 90 over the next few days.

Air conditioners went on display for sale in late March or early April. Sizes range from 5,050 British thermal units to 24,000 BTUs. Portable air conditioners and dehumidifiers are also available.

An employee at Lowe’s said she sold five air conditioners as of noon Thursday.

“They are getting everything and anything,” Krissy Fox, a manager at Home Depot, Saint Clair, said Thursday.

The store has air conditioners in size from 5,000 BTUs to 18,000 BTUs. They were on display in March. Portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers and other cooling devices are also for sale.

“People wait until the last moment,” Matthew Stufflet, Home Depot store manager, said.

Stufflet does not advise waiting to buy an air conditioner. Apparently, some customers thought the same way as 12 to 15 air conditioners were sold early Thursday.

Andy Peleschak, 50, of Frackville, bought a 10,000-BTU portable air conditioner for his house Thursday. He already had two air conditioners but wanted more cool air in the home.

Buying an air conditioner is not as easy as going to the store and picking one out. It requires research on the part of the customer, such as measuring windows and the length and width of the room needed to cool. An improperly rated unit could run too much, causing it to be inefficient. Central air conditioner units should be inspected twice a year, Stufflet said.

Tuson’s TV & Appliances, Minersville, has also seen its air conditioner sales increase.

Owner John Lazarchick said he sold several Thursday. The sizes range from 6,000 to 24,000 BTUs. He said people buy them because their units are old, broken or make too much noise.

Jennifer Quinn, sales manager of Reliable Home Supply, Minersville, said in the last three weeks the store has sold about 24 air conditioners.

“Most people are buying them for the heat wave,” she said.

However, some people are being proactive and making sure they have a working air conditioner, in case one they have malfunctions. The store has air conditioners ranging from 5,000 to 28,000 BTUs.

“If temperatures stay up, we are going to see a rush on air conditioners,” she said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

The heat wave is going to stick around through the weekend.

“We don’t have a prayer of getting a thunderstorm for the next four days,” Paul Head, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, State College, said Thursday.

A Bermuda High, an area of high pressure, over the United States is responsible for the high temperatures, Head said.

Today’s temperature is expected to climb to 88 degrees, followed by 93 on Saturday, 96 on Sunday and 95 on Monday. Not much reprieve is expected Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

“It may still be in the 90s,” Head said.

The heat index, what it feels like on the skin, could be 100 to 102 degrees in Pottsville and higher in the valleys, Head said.

Relief is likely not until July 7.

“We will at least start to see some thunderstorms,” he said.

With hot temperatures, it is important to stay hydrated and out of the sun during peak times.

“Take it easy in the afternoons when it is super hot,” Head said.

For more information about how to stay safe in the heat, visit www.weather.gov/safety/heat.

The Red Cross also offered tips on staying safe during the heat wave.

• Hot cars can be deadly. The inside temperature of a car can quickly reach 120 degrees. Never leave children or pets in the vehicle. Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat, and make sure they have plenty of cool water.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.

• If without air conditioning, choose places to go to for relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day, such as libraries, theaters and malls.

• Check on family, friends and neighbors without air conditioning who spend a lot of time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

Ashland

The Schuylkill Area Community Foundation manages the Eureka Park Fund to support summer recreation at the park in the borough. The four-week recreation program, which will run from July 9 to Aug. 3, is free and registration is not required. It will feature basketball and other activities Mondays through Fridays. For students in grades 1 through 8, the time is 10 a.m. to noon and for those in grades 9 through 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, contact SACF’s Sharon Koszyk at 570-624-7223.

Auburn

An American Red Cross blood drive is scheduled for 1 to 6 p.m. July 5 at the Auburn Ambulance site, 131 S. Front St. People 17 and older (16 with parental consent), weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health are urged to donate blood. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information or to arrange for an appointment, call 800-733-2767.

Frackville

The Frackville Museum, located in the Frackville Municipal & Community Center, Oak and Center streets, will have an open house from 1 to 4 p.m. July 8. At 2 p.m. that day, the Museum Singers will entertain with a variety of patriotic songs. The museum’s newest volunteer, Madelyn Miles, formed the singing group, whose members are 11th-graders Sydney Stokes, Paige Heiser, Alexa Prosick and Skye Selgrade, and 12th-graders Faith Garasich, Dana Gregas and Madelyn Miles, according to a press release from the museum’s Kathy Kraft. The museum is accessible to the handicapped via the back entrance. For more information, email Kraft at kmk534@gmail.com.

Pottsville

Friendly’s restaurant near Fairlane Village mall is participating in a kick-off summer promotion with a free quarter-pound cheeseburger with the purchase of any fountain beverage. The promotion is running through Sunday. For more about Friendly’s, go online to www.friendlys.com.

Schuylkill Haven

Saving the World Night at the Walk In Art Center will have a double feature beginning at 7 p.m. Saturday at the second-floor classroom. Movies will include “The Incredibles” and “Children of Men.” Admission is free and no registration is required. For more information, go to the 220 Parkway center’s website at www.walkinartcenter.org.

Shenandoah

The Greater Shenandoah Area Historical Society, 201 S. Main St., recently acknowledged the following memorials: For Kathie Palubinsky by Denise Parker; for John Edward Koury by Dan and Angie Salvadore; for Romayne Parks Stanell by Albert and Diane Bindie.

Shenandoah

The Shenandoah Area Free Public Library, Washington and Main streets, will be closed July 4 for the Independence Day holiday. It will have a craft/story hour from 11 a.m. to noon July 7. For more information, call the library at 570-462-9829.

Shenandoah

The Polish American Fire Company, Centre and West streets, will have a block party today and Saturday featuring fire truck rides, myriad games and the famous Polish American bleenies. Food stands will open at 11 a.m. today and the fire truck parade will begin at 7:30 p.m. The band Tool Shed Jack will provide entertainment from 7 to 11 p.m. Signups for the cornhole tournament will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday. The registration fee is $50 and the tournament will begin at 10 a.m. For cornhole participants only the morning of Saturday there will be all you can eat and drink for $10. Food stands will open at 4 p.m. Saturday and the band Hooligan will perform from 6 to 10 p.m. All are welcome. Regarding another company activity, member John Morris said in a release members should make gift certificate Bonanza raffle ticket returns by July 5 for the July 8 raffle. Returns can be made after 3 p.m. at the grill or by deposit in the mailbox.

Valley View

A patriotic program featuring The Cressona Band is scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Valley View Park. The performance is free, the public is welcome; food and refreshments will be available. For more information, call 570-573-9467.

MCADOO — Crews from Reading, Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad brought in heavy equipment Thursday to begin cleaning up at least seven train cars that derailed Wednesday in Kline Township.

The train derailed on a portion of track that goes under an Interstate 81 overpass in the area of mile marker 136.5.

At least four boxcars and three coal hoppers could be seen off the track, the hopper cars on their sides. In addition, a portion of the rails and railroad ties were torn out of the ground.

A representative from RBM&N, Port Clinton, said Thursday morning that all information has to be obtained by contacting the business by email.

However, an email to the railroad was not returned.

Stephen J. Bayer

TAMAQUA — A borough man charged with having indecent contact with a cable television worker who was at his house on March 28 waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Stephen J. Bayer, Tamaqua.

Frederick W. Strohl, 54, of 8 Cherry St., was arrested by Tamaqua police Cpl. Henry Woods and charged with one count each of indecent assault and harassment.

By waiving his right to a hearing, Strohl will now have to answer to both charges against him in Schuylkill County Court.

Woods said the repair man was at the home and while he was turning around to go out to his truck, Strohl grabbed his private area and the said “sorry if you’re offended.”

When interviewed, Woods said, Strohl denied touching the repairman and said it was the repairman who turned toward him and was rubbing himself against him.

Other court cases included:

Danielle M. Fulton, 30, of 330 Hazle St., Apt. 2, Tamaqua — held for court: terroristic threats and harassment.

Daniel J. Sabol, 37, of 221 E. Bertsch St., Lansford — waived for court: restraint systems-child booster seat, possession of marijuana, driving with a suspended or revoked license, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Tyler A. Cimino, 23, of 32 Ben Titus Road, Tamaqua — withdrawn: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance and hindering apprehension or prosecution. Waived for court: improper tires operation or allowing operation with unsafe equipment, exceeding the speed limit, driving a vehicle without a valid inspection, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Howard I. Boyer Jr., 45, of 528 Rolling Mill Ave., Tamaqua — waived for court: DUI and disregard for single traffic lane.

Glenna Fisher, 63, of 128 Mahanoy Ave., Tamaqua — waived for court: receiving stolen property, conspiracy, fleeing or attempting to elude police and resisting arrest.

Amanda A. Ferdinand, 31, of 756 Peace St., Hazleton — waived for court: theft, theft by deception, receiving stolen property and bad checks.

Lewis C. Tucci Jr., 20, of 450 W. Green St., Hazleton — withdrawn: possession of marijuana. Waived for court: DUI-controlled substance and duties at a stop sign.

Elez Adzemovic, 26, of 655 Carson St., Hazleton — held for court: DUI-controlled substance and improper sun screening.

PINE GROVE — Nearly 7 inches of rain Thursday morning caused flooding in Pine Grove and throughout Schuylkill County, shutting down roadways, infiltrating homes, and leaving hikers and motorists stranded.

Routes 501 and 645 in Pine Grove were closed due to mudslides and downed trees, according to Pine Grove borough Police Chief Thomas Trotter. Motorists were urged to avoid those areas and find alternate routes.

Water was also high along Veteran Memorial Boulevard and Route 895.

As of 6 p.m. Thursday, Trotter said Route 501 was still closed, but all other roads were able to be reopened.

“We had one water rescue,” Trotter said. A van was stuck in mud and water near Guilford Performance Textiles by Lear at the north end of town. Two vehicles were disabled along Route 895 due to the rising water, he said. He was unaware of any injuries.

As of 11 a.m. Thursday, the water from Swatara Creek had started to recede, he said, but there were still flooded areas in the south end of the community.

Trotter reported to duty at 2:30 a.m. Thursday and the rain had already begun collecting on streets throughout the borough.

“Snyder Avenue was like a river,” Trotter said.

Pine Grove area fire companies and road crews were out Thursday, pumping water and clearing the roadways and drains of mud and debris.

Two New Hampshire teens hiking the Appalachian Trail were sidelined along Route 443 after making their way into Pine Grove on Wednesday. They were unable to get back to the trail Thursday following the thunderstorm and downpour.

“We came into town yesterday to resupply and do our laundry,” Braeden Allen, 18, of New Ipswich, said Thursday. His trail name is “Walker.” He was joined by Todd Rust, 17, also of New Ipswich.

“It was loud. I didn’t get much sleep because of the thunderstorm and the rain,” Allen said. Their tent escaped the flooding, he added.

“We were in our tent. The thunder was so loud and the lightning was super bright,” Rust said. They started their trek March 11 in Springer Mountain, Georgia, and plan to complete the trail in its entirety, hiking to Mount Katahdin in Maine.

“We came through a few snowstorms, but nothing quite as loud as this thunderstorm,” Rust said.

Meanwhile, Larry Stevens, of 309 S. Tulpehocken St., faced an all-too-familiar scene at his residence.

“I have two and a half feet of water in my basement today,” Stevens said. He’s lived there for 20 years and said at least eight times floodwaters have traveled down the mountainside, across Tulpehocken Street and down through his yard to his garage. An aging stormwater drain under the sidewalk just outside his front porch has been unable to handle the volume of water that gathers during heavy storms, he explained. He’s brought the situation to the attention of the borough, he said.

“They told me it was my responsibility. They’re responsible for the groundwater to go away. They have to spend some money to come fix the problem,” Stevens said. “All of the neighbors all along here get it.”

Earlier this month, it was announced Pine Grove would receive nearly $6 million total from the Department of Community and Economic Development and the Department of Environmental Protection for flood remediation and the development of a floodplain restoration area near Guilford’s.

There was flooding reported in various areas of Schuylkill County; however, the most significant was in the area of Pine Grove borough and Pine Grove and Washington townships, according to John M. Matz, Schuylkill County Emergency Management Agency coordinator. Areas that have historically flooded in heavy rain did so again — Auburn borough and South Manheim and North Manheim townships.

“Floodwater over-topped the county bridge on Bear Creek Street in Auburn and according to the county engineer, it will be inspected before being reopened to use,” Matz said. There was water on sections of many roadways, including routes 443 and 895, Mexico Road and Geary Wolfe Road in Pine Grove Township, he said. There were some reports of flooded basements and at least one report of structural damage to a property in the Lake Wynonah area, according to Matz.

“We would like to remind all persons, walking or driving, that it is extremely dangerous to pass through water which has flooded a roadway, walkway or bridge. Turn around, don’t drown,” Matz said.

A thunderstorm that came through Schuylkill County shortly after midnight and into the early morning hours Thursday dumped 6.6 inches of rain in Pine Grove, according to Meteorologist Craig Evanego with the National Weather Service, State College.

“That was the highest amount we’ve seen for the past 24 hours,” Evanego said. Other areas reported 4.36 inches in Landingville; 4.82 inches at Dehart Dam, Dauphin County; and 5.01 inches at Fort Indiantown Gap, Lebanon County.

The NWS issued a flash flood warning at 2:30 a.m. Thursday for south central Schuylkill County and parts of Lebanon County. Flood warnings remained Thursday evening for two points south on the Swatara Creek at Harper’s Tavern in Lebanon County and at Hershey, Evanego said.

At 3 p.m. Thursday, the stage was 10.7 feet and rising on the Swatara Creek. Flood stage is 9 feet and minor flooding is forecast. The creek was scheduled to crest near 12 feet Thursday evening, and should have fallen below flood stage this morning.

The weather was forecast to turn hot and dry, with temperatures in the upper 80s and low 90s today and increasing temperatures to the low to mid-90s on Saturday and Sunday with a heat index of around 100 degrees.

The storm caused other damage in Schuylkill County.

Kay Keefer of Schuylkill Haven woke up Thursday morning to a mess in her yard from a pine tree that was shattered after being struck by lightning.

“It happened around 3 in the morning. I heard a boom and thought it was on top of the mountain. I heard my neighbors outside, and when I got up at 7, I looked out the back of my property and opened the curtain. It was a shock,” she said.

Her dining room windows and a basement window were shattered; her rain gutter knocked off; her chain-link fence and the corner of her garage were damaged; another tree was damaged; and part of the pine tree landed on her neighbor’s car. She did have homeowner’s insurance, she said.

The tree had also been home to wildlife. Work crews found a branch on the roof of her garage that had been serving as a home for a mother hawk and her three babies. All of them died, she said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

POTTSVILLE — In recent Schuylkill County Court action, Judge Charles M. Miller accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, these people:

Chad Bainbridge, 41, of Pottsville; criminal use of a communication facility; five years probation, $100 fine, $100 payment to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew three counts each of dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance, two additional counts of criminal use of a communication facility and one count each of corrupt organizations and conspiracy.

James T. Faust, 30, of Tamaqua; simple assault, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, accident involving damage to attended vehicle or property, operating a vehicle without certificate of inspection and failure to drive at a safe speed; four to 23 months in prison, $50 in fines, $100 in payments to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and no contact with the victim. Prosecutors withdrew charges of recklessly endangering another person, harassment, driving under suspension and failure to stop and give information or render aid.

Michael Harley Jr., 28, of Tamaqua; possession of a controlled substance; six to 16 months in prison, $100 SAEF payment and $302 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

David J. Hower, 28, of Frackville; retail theft; three to 23 months in prison concurrent with current sentence, $50 CJEA payment and $73.25 restitution.

Christina L. Kieffer, 31, of Coaldale; delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and loitering and prowling at nighttime; time served to 12 months in prison and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility.

Travis J. Levan, 37, of Pine Grove; driving under the influence; 30 days in prison, 90 days house arrest with electronic monitoring, 30 days alcohol monitoring, seven months strict supervision, four years probation, $1,500 fine, $100 SAEF payment, $520 restitution to Lehigh Valley Health Network and 20 hours community service. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of stop sign violation.

James Neff, 34, of Summit Hill; flight to avoid apprehension or trial, resisting arrest and possession of drug paraphernalia; sentencing deferred pending evaluation for participation in the state intermediate punishment program. Prosecutors withdrew one additional count each of flight to avoid apprehension or trial and resisting arrest and a charge of disorderly conduct.

Michelle M. Rex, 43, of Tamaqua; two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia; 24 months probation, $200 in SAEF payments and 10 hours community service.

Douglas J. Schartel Jr., 36, of Tamaqua; five counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, two of possession of a controlled substance and one each of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, false reports to law enforcement and false identification to law enforcement; six to 16 months in prison and $700 in SAEF payments. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of driving under suspension-DUI-related, one each of adulteration or misbranding of a controlled substance, operating a vehicle without valid inspection and violation of sound level and an additional count of possession of a controlled substance.

Jonathan M. Spiess, 38, of Auburn; criminal use of a communication facility; time served to 23 months in prison with immediate parole, $100 SAEF payment, $50 bench warrant fee and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew three counts of possession of a controlled substance, two each of dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, one additional count of criminal use of a communication facility and one count each of corrupt organizations and conspiracy.

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

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