Gilberton

Continental Hose Company No. 3, 229 Main St., will have a hoagie sale beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday. Advance orders and walk-ins are welcome. The cost is $6 per hoagie and varieties include regular, Italian, ham and cheese and turkey. All orders come with a beverage and chips. For more information, email fjackowiak@hotmail.com.

Llewellyn

The Old School Jeepers Club’s jeep run to benefit Toys for Tots from Advance Auto at the Cressona Mall is set for 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday. The entrance fee is one toy per person or $10. Donations will be given to Schuylkill County Toys for Tots. At 3 p.m. participants will travel through parts of Schuylkill County with the end stop at Good Intent Hose Company, 12 Silverton Road, Llewellyn. The event will include a bonfire and demonstration by Chief Wyar with his K9 partner, Bas. Entertainment will be by Bark at the Moon from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. For more information, email mmbutler67@verizon.net. The fire company will also have a meat bingo with doors opening at noon Nov. 18 and bingo from 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $20; the kitchen will be open. For more information, call 570-544-9974.

Mahanoy City

The Good American Hose Company, 738 E. Mahanoy Ave. will have a soup sale beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday. The cost is $6 per quart and $3.50 per pint. The variety includes beef vegetable, otato, chili, chicken rice, chicken noodle and ham and bean. Maryland crab soup will also be available at $8 per quart and $4.50 per pint. To order or for more information, call 570-773-3473.

McAdoo

The McAdoo Fire Company will hold Operation Santa Claus throughout the McAdoo area and surrounding communities it protects, beginning Dec. 6 and concluding Dec. 9. To schedule Santa to visit your home, call Tony at 570-929-2642 to make a reservation. Reservations will close Nov. 29.

Nuremberg

The Black Creek Township Recreation Committee will hold its annual Christmas tree lighting Dec. 2 in front of the township office building, near the recycling center in Rock Glen. There will be refreshments and Santa will arrive with treats for children. For more information, call Lori at 570-384-3674.

Ringtown

The Ringtown Area Library will celebrate #GivingTuesday and pledges to “Give Back on Giving Tuesday.” This year, #GivingTuesdays will be on Nov. 27 and will start the giving season by “inspiring people to collaborate and give back,” according to a press release. This #GivingTuesday, the Ringtown Area Library will celebrate giving by giving back to donors. #GivingTuesday is a global day of giving that “harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide,” according to the release. When donating $25 or more to the Ringtown Area Library on #GivingTuesday, the library will return the favor and give you a free gift — choice of an Old White Church art print, a set of three Old White Church greeting cards or a Ringtown Library stemless wine glass. Those who donate $50 or more can choose any two gifts while supplies last. Those interested in joining the Ringtown Area Library’s #GivingTuesday initiative can visit www.ringtownlibrary.org.

Shenandoah

The Shenandoah Area Free Public Library, Washington and Main streets, recently acknowledged the following memorials: For Ermano Agosti by Marty and Maryann Kelly; for Beatrice Malloy by a friend. The library also acknowledged a donation of “Pennsylvania’s Coal and Iron Police” in honor of the retirement of Trooper Michael Breznik by Dennis Mallams and Debbie Jones. People may buy copies of the book “Lithuanians in America” at the library.

Shenandoah

A dine-out fundraiser to support the Polish American Fire Company is set for 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 24 at the Vernalis Restaurant, South Main Street. A portion of the eatery’s sales during those hours will be donated to the company. All are welcome.

C aroline Khoury’s art can be found in many places.

There’s the paintings the 17-year-old has made that her parents proudly display on the walls of their Covington Township, Lackawanna County, home, and the colorful, realistic drawings of girls with different styles and makeup that live in her sketchbook. There also are the pieces she produces for friends, such as a portrait of R&B artist Frank Ocean she gave as a gift, that recipients keep close to their hearts.

Caroline’s most rewarding creations, though, can be seen on faces of children at events around the region through her face-painting business Face the Art. For the past several years, Caroline has kept busy throughout the summer and most weekends during the school year, donating her talents and proceeds to fundraisers, nonprofits, parties and events.

“Sometimes the kids will run around with it a little bit and come back over and ask for the mirror so they can look at it again. They’re so excited, and you know it’s something you created,” the North Pocono High School senior said. “They’re wearing your art. To see their face light up when they look in the mirror is such a good feeling.”

Caroline’s foray into face painting came when she was still pretty young herself. Her family spent lots of time at Lake Wallenpaupack, including during the annual Wally Lake Fest, for which her father, Glenn, helped organize some aspects.

Each year, Caroline along with her mom, Jennifer, and brother, Christopher, now 15, would attend the event. One year, Caroline took particular interest in a woman painting children’s faces and asked if she could help.

“I just loved it,” Caroline said. “It was really cool to be able to create something that made someone so happy.”

As a child, Caroline enjoyed coloring and painting, so face painting felt like a natural hobby. After a few years, and some incentive from her dad, she decided to create a business out of it. At first, her dad offered to match the funds she made face painting to donate back to the events she worked at. It wasn’t long after that Caroline’s business generated enough on its own.

“She’s very driven, and it’s a fun way for her to do what she loves but it doesn’t feel like it’s a job,” her mom said.

Caroline’s skills have improved over the years thanks to her constant face painting, and she now can create freehand designs instead of relying on templates. Classes in school, such as art electives and a theater arts class, gave her a broader interest in her craft.

Aside from developing a love of watercolor and tempera painting, Caroline discovered a passion for special-effects makeup. She learned how to apply prosthetics and blend colors and textures for realistic and macabre looks, which she tried out on herself and friends at Halloween. Caroline flexed her special-effects skills during Moscow Country Fair’s “haunted” walk-through, when she made up several middle school students to resemble extras from zombie TV show “The Walking Dead.”

“People were not expecting it, and the kids looked really creepy,” Caroline said, laughing. “I love really gory makeup, and I toned it down, but people were scared of the way these kids looked. That was so much fun and such a cool feeling.”

Many times, Caroline’s role at events is more than just painting faces. One time, at a birthday party, Caroline was asked to dress up as Elsa from Disney’s “Frozen” and to perform the character’s famous song “Let It Go.” Caroline embraces these moments and does whatever it takes to make sure children at the events stay happy.

“I think this is a great thing for Caroline because it teaches her so much,” her mom said. “It’s a lesson in business and networking, but it also teaches her to adapt quickly and to have patience. (Her dad and I) are very proud of her.”

Caroline’s appreciation for fundraising deepened over the years, too. At 14, Caroline participated in Appalachia Service Project and traveled to the heart of rural Appalachia, including Tennessee and West Virginia, to repair homes in need of warmer, drier and safer conditions.

“It was eye-opening,” she said, adding she’s returned every summer since that first year and has no plans to stop. “It was the best feeling knowing you made such a difference in someone else’s life. If that’s something I can do for people in other places, I want to help as much as I can where I live.”

Since beginning Face the Art, Caroline has donated her time and funds to events around the region, including IGA Cruise Fest, William R. Kramer Memorial Car Show and more. Proceeds have benefitted causes including Kate Carmody Memorial Cancer Fund, Light the Night Walk for childhood leukemia and lymphoma, Multiple Sclerosis Society, the watershed district of Lake Wallenpaupack and North Pocono Food Pantry.

“A lot of times, (organizers) aren’t expecting me to give them the money,” Caroline said. “It’s so rewarding to see the looks on their faces when I hand that to them.”

Maintaining straight As and running her own business throughout high school, Caroline holds even bigger dreams for her future. She hopes for her path to somehow involve both art and tech while she continues to paint and draw in her spare time. Face the Art, however, will always be her direct connection to using her craft for good, making everyone from toddlers to senior citizens smile.

“You’re never too young, and you’re never too old,” she said. “People just like to get their faces painted. It’s fun for them and for me. I love helping people however I can.”

Contact the writer: gmazur@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9127

Meet Caroline Khoury

Age: 17

Residence: Covington Township, Lackawanna County

Education: Senior at North Pocono High School

Family: Parents, Jennifer and Glenn Khoury; brother, Christopher

Claim to fame: Caroline turned her hobby for facepainting into a business, Face the Art, about six years ago and donates her talents and proceeds to fundraisers, nonprofits, parties and events she works at.

Quilt of valor

Veteran Charles Donnelly, Pottsville, was awarded a Quilt of Valor in honor and recognition of his service to our country.

Donnelly served in the Navy from 1994 to 2014. He was an enlisted aviation warfare specialist and his job consisted of loading bombs, missiles and bullets on Navy aircraft. He also worked on the maintenance of the weapons system.

Donnelly served on the aircraft carrier USS Truman, when the ship was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. He left the Navy as a petty officer first class.

His quilt was pieced by Dorothy Crouse, quilted by Wendy Bynner and awarded by Jim and Bonnie Fiedler, members of the Columbia County Quilts of Valor.

McADOO — Schuylkill County Crime Stoppers and state police at Frackville are asking for the public’s help in finding those responsible for the theft of more than $2,500 in cash and other items from a vehicle in Kline Township earlier this month.

Police said the crime happened between 10 p.m. Nov. 3 and 5:20 a.m. Nov. 4 and involved a 2015 Honda Civic that was parked unattended outside of a home at 47 Grove St.

Police said someone smashed a window on the car and once inside stole $1,280 in cash and three credit cards with the victim’s name including a Community One credit card, a Capital One credit card and a PSECU credit card.

The thief or thieves also stole Nike high top sneakers size 6 1/2 valued at $80; an Apple iPad and case valued at $380; a brown and tan Coach purse valued at $300; a brown and tan Coach wallet valued at $120; various pieces of jewelry valued at $60 and a gold chain with a pendant valued at $250.

Police said the stolen items are valued at about $1,425 and that the victim’s original birth certificate was also stolen.

In addition to the theft, Walters said about $200 damage was done to the vehicle.

Schuylkill County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 for information on those responsible for this theft or on any unsolved crime in Schuylkill County.

Callers are asked to refer to case 11-11-18 when calling with information about the theft of money and items from the car in Kline Township.

Anyone with information is asked to call Schuylkill County Crime Stoppers at 877-TIPS4SC (877-847-7472).

Callers can also relay their information directly to state police Cpl. Brian Walters of the Frackville station by calling 570-874-5300 and referring to incident PA2018-1284475.

All information received will remain confidential.

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

Stargazing this time of year around Pottsville is really getting a lot easier because first off, the nights are now a lot longer than days which bums out a lot of folks, yours truly at times. Secondly, with the end of daylight-saving time last weekend it’s dark enough for stargazing by 6 p.m.!

Despite all that, I’m suggesting that this week the best stargazing is going to be in the early morning two to three hours before sunrise. I can certainly understand your hesitation to go to bed early and set the alarm for 3 or 4 in the morning, but this week there’s a great show going on in the early morning heavens if the clouds don’t photo bomb the sky. Grab a big cup of coffee, bundle up, have a lawn chair and blankets and prepare to be dazzled!! The show’s even better in the darker countryside but even if you have to compete with city lights it’s worth getting up for. What a wonderful way to start your day!

When you first get out there, just sit back in a lawn chair or lean up against your car and let your eyes get use to the darkness. You can’t help but be blown away with the great stellar show going on in the early morning southern skies. The fantastic winter constellations overwhelm that part of the sky.

I call this part of the sky “Orion and his gang.” Orion the Hunter and his surrounding gang of constellations of Taurus the Bull, Gemini the Twins and others gradually shift from the south to southwest sky as you approach morning twilight. I never get tired of seeing those great celestial characters.

Even though it isn’t quite winter, Orion and his posse are considered winter constellations because in January, as the Earth continues its orbit around the sun, these bright shiners will be seen in the early evening sky, so consider your view of them in the morning this week a preview of great evening stargazing to come.

To get to know these constellations, download a good January evening star map. You can find a good one at www.skymaponline.net and set for early evening sometime in January. Make sure you use red filter flashlight to see the map so you don’t ruin your night vision. Of course, there many great stargazing apps on smartphones available. My favorite is Sky Guide. On that app and several other good ones you can turn the screen on your phone red to maintain night vision.

While you’re taking in the loveliness of all the bright stars in the early morning hours you’ll also see some of stars shooting across the celestial dome. Of course, they’re not actually stars but rather meteors ripping into our atmosphere. Later this week and especially this weekend, you’re bound to see more meteors than normal. That’s because the annual Leonid meteor shower is and will be peaking. The Leonids are not the best meteor shower of the year but I would put them in the upper tier. What makes them attractive this year is that there’s no moonlight in the early morning hours leaving for a much darker backdrop in the sky for catching those “falling stars.”

Annual meteor showers, like the Leonids, occur when the Earth in its orbit around the sun plows into debris left behind by a comet. Comets are more or less “dirty snowballs” of rock and ice that orbit the sun in highly elliptical elongated orbits. When their orbits take them close the sun they partially melt leaving a debris trail made up of generally tiny particles from the size of dust grains to small pebbles, about the size of small marbles.

The comet that fuels the Leonid meteor shower is called Temple Tuttle. That last came by this part of the solar system in 1998 and won’t return again until 2031. The Earth in its solar orbit is busting into this trail from temple Tuttle at 66,000 mph and at the same time these individual comet debris particles or bullets are whizzing along in their orbit at thousands of miles an hour as well. This means that the debris can crash into our atmosphere at speeds more than 150,000 mph!

With that kind of speed, individual particles quickly burn up due to tremendous air friction and we see the quick streaks of light decorate the celestial dome. The light we see isn’t because of the combustion of the debris. There’s no way you could see that because these tiny particles are burning up anywhere from 50 to 150 miles high. The streak we see is the glowing column of air being chemically excited by the particle that’s ripping through it. Sometimes you see different colors in these streaks that indicate the kinds of gas in our atmosphere that are being temporarily aroused.

Meteors in a meteor shower are best seen after midnight, because that’s when you’re on the side of the rotating Earth that’s plowing into the comet debris. It’s kind of like driving cross county on a warm summer night. You get more bugs smashed on your front windshield than you do on your rear window. After midnight we’re facing the “front windshield” of the traveling Earth.

The Leonid meteor shower is not named after the old Soviet President Leonid Brezhnev. They’re called the Leonids because the meteors seem to emanate from the general direction in the sky where the constellation where Leo the Lion is poised. After midnight, Leo is hanging in the eastern sky and looks like a backward question mark. That makes the constellation Leo the radiant of this meteor shower.

That doesn’t mean that you should restrict your meteor hunting to just that area of the heavens. If you do, you’ll miss many of them because the meteors can show up anywhere in the sky. You know they’re part of the Leonids because their “tails” seem to point back in the general direction of Leo the Lion. The best way to watch for the Leonids or any other meteor shower is to lie back on a lawn chair with blankets sometime after midnight, preferably after two or three in the morning, roll your eyes all around the night sky and see how many meteors you spot in a given hour. It’s a fun group or family activity because you can keep each other awake and have multiple eyes all around the heavens, have a great time and keep each other a wake!

Celestial hugging this week

This weekend, the new crescent moon will be hanging out next to the bright planet Venus in the low southwestern very early in the evening sky. Later this coming week, the first quarter moon will be really close to the planet Mars in the evening southern sky. On Thursday, the moon will be just to the lower right of Mars and on Friday, Mars will be parked to the upper left of the red planet.

(Lynch, an amateur astronomer and professional broadcast meteorologist, can be reached at mikewlynch@comcast.net)

POTTSVILLE — A Carbon County man is headed to state prison after pleading guilty Monday in Schuylkill County Court to four separate incidents of selling marijuana.

Tihanne R. Wright, 27, of Lansford, pleaded guilty to four counts of delivery of a controlled substance and three of criminal use of a communication facility. Prosecutors withdrew three counts each of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of marijuana and one each of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Judge James P. Goodman accepted the plea and, pursuant to an agreement between prosecutors and the defendant, sentenced Wright to serve four to 24 months in a state correctional institution and spend an additional year on probation.

Goodman also ordered Wright to pay costs, $400 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $578 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. He made the sentence effective at 9:30 a.m. Nov. 19.

Tamaqua police filed all four sets of charges against Wright, alleging he sold marijuana to a confidential informant in the borough on Dec. 20, 2017, Jan. 18 and twice on April 23.

Goodman also accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, the following people.

David J. Alsing, 27, of Tamaqua; two counts of criminal mischief; $50 in fines and $430 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew two counts each of simple assault and harassment.

Adam J. Cruz, 34, of Souderton; resisting arrest; 30 days to 23 months in prison with immediate parole and $50 payment to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Justine M. Datchko, 37, of Mahanoy City; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment and drug and alcohol evaluation.

Angela Edwards, 33, of Falls; retail theft; one to two years in a state correctional institution and a $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of defiant trespass.

On Wednesday, President Judge William E. Baldwin accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, the following people.

Christine Alfaro, 46, of Tamaqua; possession of a controlled substance; six to 24 months in a state correctional institution, $100 payment to SAEF, $50 payment to CJEA and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. Prosecutors withdrew a second count of possession of a controlled substance and a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Dylan A. Dallago, 27, of Pine Grove; two counts of defiant trespass; time served to 12 months in prison with immediate parole and six months consecutive probation.

Daniel J. Dannenfelser, 43, of Palo Alto; retail theft; one to 23 months in prison, $50 CJEA payment and $89.04 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of disorderly conduct.

Rhett C. Baker, 22, of Barnesville; two counts of possession of a controlled substance; 30 days to 23 1/2 months in prison, $100 payment to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $50 payment to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account. Prosecutors withdrew three counts of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a license.

Joseph G. Bodnar, 37, of Hazle Township; conspiracy; one to 23 months in prison, $50 CJEA payment, $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities, with sentence effective at 9 a.m. Nov. 19. Prosecutors withdrew charges of delivery of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility, possession of a controlled substance and driving under suspension-DUI related.

Eric G. Campion, 66, of Pottsville; driving under the influence; sentencing deferred pending preparation of a presentence investigation.

David A. Close Jr., 26, of Saint Clair; DUI; five years in the intermediate punishment program, $1,500 fine, $300 SAEF payment, $120 restitution to Lehigh Valley Hospital Network and 20 hours community service, with sentence effective at 9 a.m. Nov. 17. Prosecutors withdrew charges of driving without a license and careless driving.

Noah Garcia, 21, of Delano; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation consecutive to current sentence, $100 SAEF payment and $50 bench warrant fee.

Mark A. Hopper, 28, of Tioga; possession of a controlled substance; 16 to 32 months in a state correctional institution, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, with sentence effective at 9 a.m. Nov. 19. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of contraband/controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

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

Santa skydive

on Black Friday

SHENANDOAH — Black Friday, Nov. 23, will again be a daylong event in the community as Santa “drops” from the sky at noon and then rides through town aboard a fire truck. People will also get to enjoy a Coal Cracker Christmas later in the day with myriad skits and events, including horse-drawn trolley rides, sponsored by the revitalization group Downtown Shenandoah Inc.

In a spectacle that has become a must-see for local residents and visitors, Santa will skydive into the Shenandoah Valley School District’s Veterans Memorial Stadium, sponsored by Ateeco Inc., Shenandoah, maker of Mrs. T’s Pierogies.

The stadium gates will open at 10:30 a.m. in preparation for the drop. Santa will greet the children on hand and then ride aboard a fire truck through the borough. If weather conditions are unfavorable, Santa will arrive at the stadium in a fire truck before parading through Shenandoah.

Thomas Twardzik, Ateeco president, said he remembers Santa’s parachutes into Shenandoah years ago at Main and Washington streets when he was a young boy. The tradition subsequently went on hiatus and Twardzik later sought to revive it — and to relive his memories — but with the stadium as the landing point.

Immediately following Santa’s arrival, the jolly gent will make his way through town aboard a fire truck accompanied by the Shenandoah Valley High School Band.

At this point, the borough police department will begin its traditional sponsorship of the visit from Santa to local children as well as the parade through town. The North Pole gentleman will also provide treats for youngsters and the police have expressed appreciation to local businesses and the public for making contributions to make it all possible.

Anyone wishing to aid the effort may make donations with checks payable to “Shenandoah Police Department-Christmas Fund” mailed to police headquarters at 25 W. Washington St., Shenandoah, PA 17976.

DSI will take over festivities for the late afternoon/evening with events on North Main Street at American Legion Memorial Garden as well as at Girard Park, where the Greater Shenandoah Area Chamber of Commerce’s Light Up the Park initiative features a spectacular light display that is easily visible for motorists along Route 924.

There will also be horse-drawn carriage rides. Hot chocolate and cookies will be available at the Anthony P. Damato American Legion “Medal of Honor” Post 792, the front of which is DSI’s headquarters.

For more information, call the DSI office at 570-462-2060 or email dsi@downtownshenandoahinc.com. More information also is available online at downtownshenandoahinc.com.

Professional women head to Blu Tavern

POTTSVILLE — The Pottsville Business and Professional Woman’s Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Blu Tavern restaurant, Llewellyn.

The dinner meeting will host Attorney Eric Prock as the guest speaker.

The Pottsville Business and Professional Woman, according to a release, welcome and encourage anyone who would like to attend.

For more information regarding reservations and/or monthly meetings, call Jaime at 570-691-5516 or Lisa at 570-385-2350.

Walk In center holiday market

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — The annual holiday market and December open house at the Walk In Art Center will be a two-day event “dedicated to your holiday handmade shopping needs,” according to an event flier.

It will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. Nov. 30 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 1 in the main gallery and artist hallways on the third floor.

The event will feature nearly 60 vendors with all things handmade. Food will be on sale by Johnz Catering.

The art center, according to the flier, is part of the Celebrate Schuylkill: Spirit of the Holidays Tour.

More information about the center is available online at www.walkinatcenter.org.

LionLaunch helps launch businesses

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — People are being invited to strengthen their business skills by attending “information-packed programs” via Penn State Schuylkill LionLaunch.

LionLaunch will present a comprehensive business plan writing program with Savas Logothetides, owner of Wheel restaurant, Pottsville, and executive director of the Pottsville Area Development Corp. The program will be available in two sessions, 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 4 and 11 at the LionLaunch Innovation Hub, Schuylkill Haven.

Logothetides will “show you step-by-step how to formulate your own business plan starting with the executive summary,” according to the flier. “He will break down each section of a business plan and show you how each of those sections strategically informs another.”

People may register now for $40 by visiting sl.psu.edu/innovationhub.

Other LionLaunch efforts include:

· A Google Wabinar at 2 p.m. Thursday — “Join from anywhere.” It is part of a celebration of Global Entrepreneur Week and LionLaunch will team with Randi Penfil, speaker for Google’s “Get Your Business Online” program, to help people understand “the ins and outs of this online giant so you can take full advantage of what it offers.” Penfil will introduce tools that can help including Google Analytics and Google Trends. Contact LionLaunch for more.

· Employee Retention: Mentoring for the Millennials, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 19 with Ceil Michalik, president of Michalik Consulting LLC, Schuylkill Haven, who will explain why mentoring improves business acumen, emotional intelligence and self-discipline and provides a safe sounding board for testing ideas and plans.

· Digital Marketing 101: Breaking it Down to Enjoy a Successful Online Ride, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 10 with Scott Williams, owner of Cotts Inc. and creator of SkooCal. He is a LionLaunch business plan competition winner and focuses on digital marketing, breaking it down so people can take full advantage of what is available.

The registration fees are $12 and include lunch. Coordinator Susan Williams can be reached by calling 570-385-6065 or emailing sxw831@psu.edu. More also is available online at schuylkill.psu.edu/expertslunch.

Penn State Schuylkill LionLaunch is part of the university’s statewide initiative, Invent Penn State, aimed at spurring economic growth throughout Pennsylvania, according to a LionLaunch flier.

LionLaunch, with the support of community partners, is helping Schuylkill County entrepreneurs and business professionals find resources and information they need to become successful, according to the release.

So far, LionLaunch has helped start 14 new businesses in Schuylkill County and awarded $47,000 in seed money to entrepreneurs, according to the flier.

DSI agenda

includes concert

SHENANDOAH — The revitalization group Downtown Shenandoah Inc. will sponsor Christmas with the M&J Big Band at 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at Shenandoah Valley High School, 805 W. Centre St.

Admission will be free; donations will be gratefully accepted. Call DSI at 570-462-2060 for more information.

Chamber association announces officers

BARNESVILLE — The Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals announced its 2019 officers and board of directors at the 2018 PACP Chamber Professionals & Leadership Conference held at the Mountain Valley Golf Course banquet venue.

Officers include Debra Orner, Cambria Regional Chamber of Commerce, chairwoman; Kellie Goodman Shaffer, Bedford County chamber, chairwoman-elect; Fred Gaffney, Columbia Montour chamber, treasurer/corporate chairman; Robert Carl Jr., Schuylkill camber, immediate past chairman.

The board of directors includes: Tracy Becker, Clarion Area camber; Lindsay Bezick, Greater Wilkes-Barre camber; Michelle Kreutzer, Pittsburgh Airport Area camber; Christa Lundy, Meadville camber; Marianne Martelli, Chester County camber; Jennifer Reis, Pennsylvania Chamber of Business & Industry; Brian Schill, Peters Township chamber; James Struzzi, Indiana County chamber; Gina Suydam, Wyoming County chamber.

Board members, according to an association release, serve in the volunteer leadership role, developing and leading the annual plan of action to assist in the enhancement of quality education in professional and organizational development to its members.

For more information on the association, call Tiffany Fulmer Ott at 404-312-0524 or email tfulmer@tlfexecutiveservices.

Chamber updates mixers, sessions

POTTSVILLE — The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce has several upcoming sessions on its agenda. People may register for all chamber programs online at www.schuylkillchamber.com. The chamber and the SEDCO/chamber conference center are at Union Station, 1 Progress Circle, Suite 201, Pottsville, PA 17901.

· Shannon Brennan, Schuylkill Technology Centers, will present a session from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 29 regarding strategies for retaining the millennial workforce. It will be held in the SEDCO/chamber conference center, costing $40 for chamber members and $80 for nonmembers with lunch included.

· A session called Find Your Stressor, Achieving Zen in the Workplace, will be held from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Dec. 18 at the SEDCO/chamber conference center with Edy P. Pierre of In Search Innovation. The education seminar is eligible for the Tiers Education Seminar Credit for partner members and higher. The cost is $25 for chamber members and $50 for nonmembers. The reservation deadline is Dec. 14.

· The chamber offers a new-member benefit, a human resources helpline that provides “fast, personal help from real live HR professionals,” according to a chamber flier.

Help is available regarding FMLA, ADA or leaves of absence; employee discipline, termination or employee relations; questions about drug testing or harassment, officials said in the flier.

“Call during regular business hours to speak with an HR expert,” according to the flier. The toll-free helpline is 844-318-0699. For after-hours calls, leave a message and the call will be returned the next business day. People may also email questions to HRHelpline@schuylkillchamber.com.

People may register for all chamber programs online at www.schuylkillchamber.com. The chamber and the SEDCO/chamber conference center are at Union Station, 1 Progress Circle, Suite 201, Pottsville, PA 17901.

· A program called WEDnetPA is funded by the state Department of Community and Economic Development and administered by Lehigh Carbon Community College, according to a chamber flier.

“You may qualify for WEDnetPA funding if your company is based in Pennsylvania, a manufacturing or a technology-based business,” according to the flier.

Organizations may be eligible to receive up to $450 per person for essential skills training and up to $850 per person for advanced technology training.

For more information, apply to Maureen Donovan, Center for Leadership & Workforce, be emailing mdonovan@lccc.edu or calling 570-668-6880 or 610-799-1245.

Pottsville Rotary

Minersville Area students Emily Graeff and Gehrig Hossler, Pottsville Area students Victoria Oswald and John F. Hannaway III and Nativity BVM High School students Gabriella Quinn and Connor McNamara were Pottsville Rotary Club’s students of the month for October.

Emily is a daughter of Fred and Chrissy Graeff, Tremont. Her school activities are National Honor Society treasurer, Youth Conference ambassador, class secretary, student assistant to the activities director, SADD, TAT and varsity girls softball and basketball. Outside of school, she volunteers at the junior high basketball concession stand, the borough haunted house and is a member of St. Matthew the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, Minersville.

Emily plans to pursue a career in actuarial science

Gehrig is a son of Jeremy and Brenda Hossler, Pottsville. His school activities include Leadership Conference representative, diversity club, TAT and SADD. He is a member of the baseball team and captain of the football and basketball teams.

Outside of school, he volunteers with Make-A-Wish, Minersville Area Youth Basketball, at the borough haunted house and is an altar server at St. Matthew the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, Minersville.

Gehrig plans to attend college and study sports management/broadcasting communications.

Victoria is a granddaughter of Michael Shea, Pottsville. She is a member of the marching band, concert band, pep band, pit band, percussion ensemble and Schuylkill County Band. She is also a member of chess club, debate club, engineering club, Quiz Team, girls varsity tennis, Gifts of Awesome, foreign language club, blight club and the National Honor Society.

Victoria is a member of the Teen Advisory Board at the Pottsville Women’s Shelter and Teen Advisory Board Member of the Pottsville Free Public Library. She has won the Bausch and Lamb Science Award, distinguished honors, and is a quest Bridge Prep Scholar.

Victoria is undecided on college but plans to major in physics with a concentration in astrophysics.

John is a son of Darlene and Jack Hannaway, Pottsville. He is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, stage band, pit band, pep band, student council, debate club, engineering club, Relay for Life, foreign language club and Quiz Team. He is also a member of Gabriel Youth Orchestra, Third Brigade Band and Anthracite Youth Symphony.

John plans on attending Wilkes University to major in pharmacy with a Spanish concentration.

Gabriella is a daughter of Maria and Nick Quinn, Pottsville, and is a member of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Parish, Pottsville, where she is an altar server. She is a member of the National Honor Society and Science National Honor Society, and is involved in cheerleading and track and field.

Gabriella is a Student Ambassador and a member of the campus ministry, math and science club, vision team, STEM Team, Interact and student government. She plans to attend a college or university and study biology/pre-med.

Connor is a son of Bernadine and Kevin McNamara, Minersville. He is a member of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Parish, Pottsville, where he is an alter server, sacristan and parish council youth member. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Science National Honor society, and is involved in football, math club, science club, Interact and a Student Ambassador.

Connor plans to attend college and major in either physical therapy or pharmacy.

Deeds

Barry Township — Vicky L. Walk and Kenneth R. Dengler, co-executors of the Estate of Jeraldine S. Dengler, to James H. Dengler; 76 Post Road; $1.

East Brunswick Township — Justin T. Blum, executor under the Last Will & Testament of Phyllis C. Blum, to Jared W. and Abby Witmier; 155 Brookshire Lane; $427,000.

East Brunswick and West Penn townships — Rose M. and Edgar A. Hamm to Larry C. and Barbara A. Hower; 16 Blue Mountain Drive; $390,000.

Girardville — Sara K. Benjamin to Shane R. Lawson; 6 Ogden St.; $2,900.

Mahanoy City — Russell and Susan Zimmerman to Shawn McGuire; property on West Centre Street; $1,000.

Minersville — Lorraine A. Gurlavage to Lorraine A. Gurlavage and William J. Sorge; 439 Church St.; $1.

Tax Claim Bureau of Schuylkill County to Theodor R. Ghannam; 157 S. Third St.; $100.

North Manheim Township — Cindy L. Moyer and Anthony F. Porinno to Sherry L. Benning, Bertha M. Marcovitch and Samuel Lawrence Devere Benning; 419 Stoney Run Road, Chestnut Hill; $250,000.

Pottsville — Mary C. Brower to Scott Brower; 533 E. Market St.; $1.

Rush Township — Tracy Onea to Louis Horvath; 11 Blueberry Lane, Lake Hauto; $135,000.

Saint Clair — Susan Marie Morrow to Joshua J. Poda; 134 S. Nicholas St.; $1.

Schuylkill Haven — Megan Sprenger to BWR Enterprises LLC; property on Berne Street; $40,000.

Brandon L. Aungst to Kenneth L. Breidigan Jr.; 150 McKinley St.; $95,000.

Brandi Eiler to Danielle Breidigan; 59 Grant St.; $75,000.

Kenneth P. and Virginia L. Reber to Amanda Lee McClusky and Diana L. McClusky; 235 Paxson Ave.; $80,000.

Shenandoah — Matthew M. Moucheron to Shawn McGuire; 400-402 W. Cherry St.; $100.

South Manheim Township — Merlin L. and Mary Ellen K. Hartman to Paul A. and Denise M. Kanigoski; 2326 Spear Cove, Lake Wynonah; $184,900.

Tamaqua — Kent J. Tavener and Lauren K. Hearn to Justin A. Boyer and Alice M. Schmerfeld; 33 Swatara St.; $14,000.

Tower City — Dale Schneck, administrator of the Estate of Bruce H. Schneck, to Harold R. Blatt; property on Wiconisco Avenue; $57,000.

Tremont — Harris M. and Charlotte A. Wellbank to Tracy L. Wellbank; 335 W. Main St.; $1.

Washington Township — Robin A. Miller to West Schuylkill G.E.M. Realty LLC; 6 Blue Gill Lane; $13,000.

Aaron and Denise Ragsdale to Denise Ragsdale; 100 Sunrise Road; $1.

Wayne Township — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to The Gratz Bank; 1079 Summer Hill Road; $1,140.36.

West Brunswick Township — Miller Group Holdings LP to The Thomas and Susan Shu Family Trust; 1.517-acre property at Market Street and Hickory Drive; $1,290,000.

Christine M. Haslam to Evelyn M. Epting; 2005 Village Road, Pinebrook; $120,000.

Robert T. Vitacco and Elizabeth A. Vitacco, individually and as trustees for The Robert T. Vitacco and Elizabeth A. Vitacco Revocable Living Trust, to Joseph Michael Faust; 14 Pheasant Run Road; $110,000.

West Penn Township — Stephen A. and Kimmy Lynn Mulik to Stephen A. and Kimmy Lynn Mulik; 600 McIntosh Lane, Andreas; $1.

D.G. Yuengling & Son Inc. has donated $50,000 to an organization that enriches the lives of our nation’s veterans.

Representatives from the Pottsville brewery presented a check to Team Red, White & Blue through the company’s Lagers for Heroes program.

“We are thrilled to announce Team RWB as a new partner for our Lagers for Heroes program,” Debbie Yuengling, a sixth-generation brewer, said. “Team RWB offers invaluable resources and support services for veterans, and we are proud to support an organization that shares our same commitment to our nation’s military.”

Team RWB Executive Director John Pinter accepted on behalf of the nonprofit, which connects America’s veterans with their communities through physical and social activity.

Jennifer Yuengling, vice president of operations for D.G. Yuengling & Son Inc., joined Debbie Yuengling and Pinter for the ceremony, along with Bana Miller, Sarah Ames, Amber Bensinger, Debbie Altobelli and Amanda Rondon.

Yuengling also supported Team RWB’s Old Glory Relay. During the Pennsylvania leg of the Old Glory Relay in September, Jennifer Yuengling raised the flag and ran a portion of the course with the team. The relay is a 4,300-mile journey where veterans and supporters carry the American flag across the country to honor and connect those who served.

Yuengling’s latest donation will further Team RWB’s commitment to creating quality relationships and experiences for veterans.

“We are extremely honored by the generous support of Yuengling’s Lagers for Heroes program,” Pinter, said. “This donation will enable us to significantly expand our programs and impact the lives of veterans and their families.”

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

Editor’s note: On Oct. 12, Paul Savary, 92, of Allentown, made an emotional journey to France to visit battle sites and the grave of his brother, Charles Savary Jr. The Army private was killed at age 19 on Aug. 30 1944, in the Battle for Brest. He landed in Normandy on June 6, 1944, as part of the D-Day invasion. A few days before he died, Charles Savary Jr. helped liberate Ville de Guilers. The Savary brothers grew up in Minersville. Paul Savary received a great gift on his pilgrimage to France. His granddaughter, Dennille Schuler, of South Whitehall, has written an account of the trip.

Charles Savary Jr. was a 19-year-old American solider when he was killed in World War II’s Battle for Brest in western France.

Charles was buried in France. His 18-year-old brother, Paul Savary, of Allentown, never had the chance to properly mourn his brother’s death, serving stateside in the same war that took his brother’s life.

Nearly 75 years later, Paul, now 92, traveled to the French towns and villages his brother helped liberate. Retracing the steps of his brother and the others that served in K Company of the 116th Regiment of the 29th Division, Paul learned not only about the events of 1944, but how they still resonate today. Paul is my grandfather.

Charles and Paul were particularly close because their mother died when they were young. Growing up in Minersville, in the 1930s was a tough life, but they had each other.

Paul remembers how talented Charles was on the violin, which he started playing at the age of 9. By the sixth grade, Charles was playing in the high school orchestra. When war came calling, Charles wanted to bring his prized violin, but their father said no. Paul often wonders if the violin and a place in the Army Orchestra would have kept Charles from seeing combat. The two brothers were so close that Paul named one of his sons Charles to honor his brother.

Paul’s first trip to France was in 2007, while visiting me during my semester abroad in London. My parents, Deborah (Paul’s daughter) and Douglas Varney, and youngest sister, Deanna Varney, also made the trip. Then 81 years old, it was my grandfather’s first trip to visit his brother’s grave at Brittany American Cemetery and Memorial in Saint-James, Normandy, France, which contains the remains of 4,410 WWII American soldiers.

My greatest memory from that visit was asking the cemetery superintendent if other American families had visited that same weekend, because we noticed many other graves were freshly decorated for Easter. He said no, that French families had adopted the graves and been decorating them for generations to honor the Americans’ sacrifice for their freedom. That was an eye-opening moment for my family, my grandfather included.

My grandfather had been asking to go back to visit his brother ever since. My parents and sister took my now 92-year-old grandfather to France in October to again visit his brother. They also toured the beaches of Normandy.

On their last full day, they decided to visit the battleground where Charles fought. The Battle for Brest was part of the Allied forces’ plan to invade the mainland of Europe and capture ports used for the delivery of materials and supplies.

When they arrived in the village of Guilers on Oct. 19, they were greeted by Ronan Urvoaz-Sauvage, an expert on the battle, and two others in an authentic WWII American Jeep. After visiting one of the battle sites near where Charles’ unit had fought to liberate Guilers in late August 1944, they were hosted by the mayor of Ville of Guilers, Pierre Ogor.

With champagne waiting, he wanted to say thank you for my grandfather’s brother’s sacrifice. The Ville of Guilers also arranged for French veterans to visit with my grandfather and express their gratitude. Ogor even presented my grandfather with a medal of the city to remember his brother who, he said, was the American soldier “come to fight the enemy on French soil.”

During the presentation he noted the importance, “74 years later, of continuing to honor the people who fought for our freedom.”

After speeches and the presentation, they were taken to the site where Charles was killed in action on Aug. 30, 1944, during an attack on the strong point of La Trinite, west of Brest.

Each family member took away something different from this emotional visit. My sister noted how dedicated the tour guide was in gathering the correct information to be able to tell soldiers’ families exactly what happened to their loved ones. My mom gained a better understanding of WWII and learned more about how her uncle died a hero. My dad gained a new-found appreciation for “the greatest generation” and the massive scale of the D-Day invasion and subsequent liberation of France.

As for my grandfather, this trip offered him an incredible gift — closure. At 92 years old, the people of the Village of Guilers gave him the hero’s welcome that Charles was never able to receive. He saw that there are people who remember his brother and are grateful for his service. He saw that those French citizens would not have the life they have today without the sacrifices made decades ago by American soldiers like Charles.

Paul continued serving in WWII as a member of the Naval Air Force in Kingsville, Texas, but his life was forever changed by the loss of his brother. Instead of being bitter, he has lived his life as a generous, loving and understanding man.

Now, having heard the stories and seen the battlefields first-hand, he can fully appreciate the purpose behind his loss. Charles’ death, while heartbreaking and life-changing for our family, was part of a mission that proved to be life-saving for generations of French citizens. My grandfather, and all who served, truly are part of the greatest generation and we want him and others to know we appreciate them.

Dennille Schuler, of South Whitehall, is the public relations specialist at Penn State-Lehigh Valley and a granddaughter of Paul Savary.

PRIMROSE — The celebration of the 80th anniversary of the St. Nicholas Choir Club on Friday was a time to recognize the importance of song in praising God at all times.

The banquet, held at St. Nicholas Hall, was a remembrance of the essential role the choir has played in the life of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Minersville, especially with its participation in the Divine Liturgy with the singing of hymns and prayers.

The master of ceremonies was Dennis “Denny” Hardock, only the third choir director and cantor in the choir’s eight-decade history. Hardock took over the position in 2017 after the retirement of John Sternick, who spent 43 years in that leadership position. Sternick became cantor and choir director in 1974 after the death of the first choir director/cantor, Professor John Semeniuk, serving from the choir club’s creation in 1938.

The Rev. Mark Fesniak, former pastor, offered a prayer of grace before the meal. Remarks were made by the current pastor, the Rev. Paul Makar.

As people enjoyed the family-style meal, Hardock read through the commemorative book with many pages sponsored by parishioners, churches, organizations and others congratulating the choir and those who been part of it for decades.

Hardock recognized choir members who have been part of the choir for 50-plus years and presented them with gifts:

Cecelia Belas, 75-plus years; Josephine Rudyk, 60-plus years; John Hozella, 50-plus years; Ron Samilo, 50-plus years; Gloria Samilo, 50-plus years; and Andrew Hutsko, 50-plus years.

He also thanked Ronald and Dolores Kramer for their dedicated efforts in organizing the celebration and the commemorative book. Hardock presented them with a gift in appreciation.

“When I took over as director and cantor just this last year, I went to my Aunt Cele Belas and told her I was going to be doing this (as maser of ceremonies),” Hardock said. “My Aunt Cele is 94 years old. She told me that that was really nice, Dennis, and she had Cheryl go downstairs to get me this big box. We opened it up and it was filled with books and books of choir minutes. My Aunt Cele was secretary since 1944. All the minutes were neatly in order and it was just beautiful. I made it a point to read all the minutes over several days so I could put myself in a position of where the choir was, where we are and where we’re going. It really gave me a sense of pride and how this choir was so, so important to so many people. My Aunt Cele and Uncle Steve spent 70 years singing in this choir together. So it’s with great gratitude that I present this token of our appreciation to my Aunt Cele — alto, secretary, choir member — for all of these years.”

Two plaques were unveiled remembering Semeniuk as first choir director/cantor and another in gratitude to Sternick, who attended the banquet.

“Our choir officially was chartered in November 1938. It gave people an opportunity to sing together for the greater glory of God by Professor Jack Semeniuk,” Hardock said as Ronald Kramer unveiled the plaque. “In addition to his church choir duties, he also shared the picnic and fundraising activities at St. Nicholas Parochial School for many years.”

Hardock then spoke of Sternick and his taking on the directorship of the choir at Semeniuk’s passing in 1974.

“Mr. Sternick led our choir well for 44 years, and sang in four-part a capella Ukrainian Divine Liturgies and folk songs, made appearances in several towns, including Harrisburg, Philadelphia, the Ukrainian Day celebration and beyond.”

Hardock called all choir members in attendance to stand at Sternick’s table.

“Mr. Sternick, we are eternally grateful for your dedication and all that you’ve done for us,” Hardock said. “At this time, we would like to present to you a plaque that will hang in our choir for many, many years featuring a bust of you from the photography work of Mr. Andrew Makara and the artist work of our own Mr. Martin Heffron. May we have a round of applause for the dedication of this plaque for Mr. Sternick.”

The main speaker was the Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko, a former pastor who is the current pastor of Ss. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Mount Carmel and Assumption BVM Ukrainian Catholic Church in Centralia. Hutsko is also the dean of the South Anthracite Protopresbytery (Deanery) of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia.

Hutsko spoke of growing up and attending Sunday Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Church in Minersville, a parish where he would become pastor many years later.

“I would spend the day with our families, and as a little child I sat there listening to this beautiful, melodious singing and the responses of the liturgy,” Hutsko said. “That full voice that resonated in our large church touched my heart, touched my heart not in a way that we were just praying here, but there was something very special going on. There really was Heaven on Earth in the walls of St. Nicholas Church because of the beautiful singing of our choir.”

Hutsko spoke of Semeniuk as a such a strong leader of the choir, but was also “a man of great man of kindness and compassion.”

“Again as a young child and a young man, I can honestly say that one of the foundations of my vocation was found sitting in the pews of St. Nick’s listening to the choir responding so beautifully,” Hutsko said.

Hutsko then spoke of Sternick’s dedication to the choir and the parish.

“John, as many know, had weekly choir rehearsals, and he was a tough taskmaster,” Hutsko said. “All of you know that because he wanted the best out of each of you. In every way, Mr. Sternick left nothing to chance. He prepared everyone’s books for you so that when you came to your stand, they were there and you were prepared to sing the particular versions that we were doing on that Sunday or that holy day. John, I want to thank you for all of your service and your dedication to the choir and to St. Nicholas Church. I want to thank you personally for all of your support that you’ve given me and all the good advice that you’ve shared with me throughout the years.”

After the program, the band Another Side provided music for the remainder of the evening.

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

Hillsdale

Madeline C. Domalakes graduated summa cum laude from Hillsdale College, Michigan, in May with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and politics. She is also the grateful recipient of numerous merit scholarships.

While at Hillsdale, she undertook leadership roles in her sorority, Chi Omega, College Republicans and the political honorary of Pi Sigma Alpha. She enjoyed participating in other campus organizations, including the international club, conservation club, Phi Kappa Phi, and Phi Alpha Theta.

Madeline interned in Washington, D.C., with the House of Representatives and in Arlington, Virginia, with a contractor of the foreign service. In the summer of 2017, Madeline was an associate member of New College at Oxford University, where she studied the life of Ataturk and Turkish history.

Madeline is a 2014 graduate of Nativity BVM High School and is a daughter of Attorney Paul and Patricia Domalakes, Frackville. She is a granddaughter of the late Bernard and Helen Kiefer and John and Jane Domalakes. She is thrilled to be back in Pennsylvania with her family and friends after four years in icy Michigan.

Bloomsburg

Brandon McCloskey graduated in May with a Master of Science degree in speech and language pathology from Bloomsburg University.

He completed ex-ternships at North Schuylkill Elementary School and Lehigh Valley Health Network-Schuylkill.

Brandon is a son of Nancy and Ron McCloskey, Frackville.

POTTSVILLE — Veterans enjoyed a hearty meal while enjoy time with their comrades in arms Saturday morning for the traditional Veterans Day breakfast at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill E. Norwegian Street.

The attendance at the 18th annual breakfast, which also happened to be held on the 243rd birthday of the Marine Corps, filled the Norman M. Wall, M.D. Auditorium during much of the two-hour event that honored those who have served honorably in the military.

Lehigh Valley Health Network Director of Public Relations M. Michael Peckman said they had 239 attendees this year, making it one of the highest attendance numbers, but in line with recent years that were more than 200. The breakfast was held from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Peckman said veterans started showing up at 6:45 a.m., prompting the volunteer staff to begin serving around 7:10 a.m.

“We have at least four World War II veterans here, which is wonderful,” Peckman said in the first hour of the breakfast. Before the event ended, two more World War II veterans were in attendance, including one who is a patient in the Physical Rehab Unit and was brought down to the breakfast after receiving permission from his physician.

Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill President William “Bill” Reppy greeted veterans inside the auditorium. At the door, Dr. Lawrence Riddles, the regional chief medical officer, welcomed everyone as they entered and wished them well as they left. Riddles, a retired Air Force colonel with 35 years of active duty, wore his Air Force fatigues for the morning. Navy veteran and food and nutrition supervisor/cook Anthony Petrozino supervised the effort.

“This is the 18th year we’ve done this. The slides that you see are from previous breakfasts,” Peckman said. “Employees are all volunteering, and the kids you see are children of employees who are helping.”

Arlin A. Kramer Sr., of Pine Grove, a World War II Army veteran, was appreciative of the hospital’s effort to thank veterans.

“This is excellent. Just excellent,” Kramer said of the breakfast.

Kramer served in Italy with the 88th Infantry Division from 1946-48. Military personnel who served up to Dec. 31, 1946, are considered World War II veterans.

“My time was spent more at war with the Yugoslav army than with the Germans,” Kramer said. “The Yugoslavs were run by a dictator called Tito, and when the war simmered down with the Germans, he demanded whole strips of Italy that were his, including the City of Trieste,” Kramer said. “As a result, the United Nations moved in. There were 5,000 American troops under the United Nations command to keep him out.”

Riddles became chief medical officer just over two years ago and Saturday’s breakfast was the third one since he joined the hospital staff. During his 35 years in the Air Force, Riddles served as a doctor in different locations in the country and was posted in Turkey for a time. He retired in 2012.

“I really think this breakfast is great. It really honors tradition and service, which is what we’re here for taking care of health care,” Riddles said. “The folks who are here now are the ones who have served the country, and the same thing with the family members. The family members served as much, if not harder, than those of us who were in. I think of all the times I was deployed overseas, it actually was easier for me. I was focused on the mission, and they were at home thinking about what was going on. Those who served are the ones who took the oath and are out there putting their lives on the line.”

World War II Army veteran George V. Jackson Jr., of Landingville, served in Europe and has many tales of serving in the 101st Airborne Division and the 326 Engineers Company B that includes fighting during the Battle of the Bulge, which began in December 1944, and being wounded while dealing with a German Tiger tank. He served from 1943 to 1945 and was a private first class.

“I’d like to be 18 and do it all over again. How about that?” said Jackson, who will be 95 on Thursday. “I was drafted at 18 and was put in with the engineers. After I was in there for a short time and either building bridges or tearing them down, I wanted to get into the action so joined the 101st Airborne. I saw action in Holland and the Battle of the Bulge.”

Jackson spoke of how he was wounded during the Bulge.

“I was wounded Christmas morning in 1944 in the Battle of the Bulge,” he said. “I was wounded by an 88’ from a Tiger tank. We sent two guys down to knock the tank out with a bazooka. The bazooka bounced right off like it always did. We were firing to protect the guys with three machine guns. A shell came in and all the three machine guns were gone. So I ended up with a hunk of steel in here.”

Jackson pointed to his left shoulder and said the metal was still in there. He said being in the airborne division was good for him.

“When I got into the airborne, that made me the way I am today,” Jackson said. “When I went into the service, I kind of had an inferiority complex. Once I got my boots and my wings, there ain’t no stopping this guy.”

After his injury, he was discharged on Dec. 8, 1945, and on Jan. 12, 1946, he was married.

“Sixty-two good years of married life to Ethel,” he said. His wife died in 2007.

When a civilian, he owned three Gulf gas stations, but his wife wanted a farm. He bought land in Landingville that is now Pheasant Valley Farm. He had two possible pieces of land to consider. The second was the one.

“When we looked at the second piece, the look on her face made the decision. So I sold everything and moved up to Pennsylvania,” Jackson said.

American Legion District 13 Commander Marc Burlile, who served in Desert Storm, said about the breakfast, “I think it’s a wonderful thing that they’re doing. The veterans from all generations need to be remembered and not forgotten. All in all, it’s a beautiful thing the hospital does. They’ve been doing it for 18 years and I hope they continue on.”

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

A Carbon County man is headed to state prison after admitting Wednesday to a Schuylkill County judge that he broke into a Coaldale residence in January.

John S. Murphy, 42, of Lansford, must spend 2 1/2 to six years in a state correctional institution, President Judge William E. Baldwin ruled.

Baldwin also sentenced Murphy to pay costs, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and $14,500 restitution, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Murphy pleaded guilty to burglary in one case, theft in a second and possession of drug paraphernalia in a third. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of receiving stolen property, one of criminal trespass and one additional count of theft.

Coaldale police charged Murphy with breaking into 25 W. Lee St. on Jan. 27.

Baldwin also accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, the following people:

Christine Alfaro, 46, of Tamaqua; possession of a controlled substance; six to 24 months in a state correctional institution, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, with sentencing effective at 9 a.m. Nov. 14.

Robert W. Barron Jr., 52, of Tamaqua; criminal mischief and disorderly conduct; time served to 23 months in prison with immediate parole, $50 CJEA payment and mental health evaluation. Prosecutors withdrew a second count of disorderly conduct and a charge of public drunkenness.

Evaton M. Blackwood, 48, of Minersville; possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia; 18 to 36 months in a state correctional institution, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment, $239 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Jason J. Cieniawa, 35, of Tamaqua; receiving stolen property and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle; one year less two days to two years less one day in prison.

Kimberly Kroll, 34, of Hazleton; driving under the influence and accident involving damage to attended vehicle or property; sentencing deferred pending preparation of a presentence investigation. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of a small amount of marijuana and stop sign violation.

Renae C. Myers, 27, of Harrisburg; DUI, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia; 72 hours to six months in prison with immediate parole, six months consecutive probation, $1,000 fine, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment, $50 bench warrant fee, $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, $400 restitution to Lehigh Valley Hospital Network and 10 hours community service.

Joshua J. Kimmel, 35, of Harrisburg; possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia; sentencing deferred pending preparation of a presentence investigation.

James L. Maranki, 55, of Northampton; harassment; 12 months probation and no contact with the victim. Prosecutors withdrew a second count of harassment and a charge of disorderly conduct.

Jeffrey L. Miller, 44, of Mahanoy City; disorderly conduct and harassment; 12 months probation.

Terry B. Stufflet, 62, of Hamburg; DUI; sentencing deferred pending preparation of a presentence investigation. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of careless driving.

Angela M. Umbenhauer, 31, of Mahanoy City; two counts of possession of a controlled substance and one of conspiracy; sentencing deferred pending preparation of a presentence investigation. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of delivery of a controlled substance.

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

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

POTTSVILLE — The reality of war was captured on the stage of the Majestic Theater on Sunday, according to a Navy veteran.

Stu Anthony, 69, of Pitman, a former medic, and his wife, Faith Anthony, 64, attended a special Veterans Day presentation of “Anton and Siegfried.” The five-scene, one-act play tells a story about German soldiers in the trenches during the Somme offensive of World War I. It was written by John R. “Jack” Mansell, 89, of Carlisle, formerly of Pottsville.

Stu Anthony said the play was “factual and well done.”

Faith Anthony said the play showed the human side of war.

“You have to remember they had a mother and they were somebody’s son,” Faith Anthony said.

On July 1, 1916, British and French forces at the Somme river launched an offensive against heavily fortified German defenses. The British suffered 57,740 casualties that day, according to the play’s program. The United States had not yet entered the war.

Mansell said the machine gun and its use by the Germans were the reasons for the high death rate among the British.

Mansell said he studied common names of Germans during that time and came up with the names, Anton, Frederick/Siegfried and Max. On Sunday, Steve Durkin played Sgt. Anton Hoffer, Nathan Kraft played Frederick/Siegfried and Nate Header played Max Fellner. Anthony Kurdilla played an unnamed German soldier.

Durkin said the play shows the mental strain people are under in war.

“We are going to ask you to imagine what it’s like to be the man behind the gun,” Durkin said.

As the scenes pass, the characters and their personalities evolve as the war takes it toll on them. Durkin played a man always on guard for the unexpected because death awaits when you least expect it. He was the gunner and tells Heater’s character, Max, to clean the gun so it doesn’t jam or misfire.

Heater played a young man who attended university before being in the war, something he didn’t like.

“We breathe death. We smell death,” he said.

Frederick who adopted the personality of Siegfried, a carefree person to deal with the reality of war, said being a solider is all he’s ever known.

“It’s probably going to kill me before it’s all over,” he said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

Altamont

An all-you-can-eat breakfast is set for 8 to 11 a.m. Nov. 25 at the Altamont Fire Company, 215 S. Green St. near Frackville. The menu will include eggs or omelets to order; plain, chocolate chip, peanut butter chip and chocolate/peanut butter chip pancakes; French toast; ham, bacon, sausage, scrapple and toast, coffee, juice. The cost is $9 per person and all are welcome.

Hazleton

The Greater Hazleton Concert Series, for which people from Schuylkill County subscribe, will feature The Company Men at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Hazleton Area High School, 1601 W. 23rd St. The quartet will sing ’70s hit songs in 90 minutes. For tickets or more information, call Cynthia Currier at 570-436-6615 or Amelia Bergeron at 570-788-4864. For more information, go online to www.hazletonconcertseries.org.

Llewellyn

Good Intent Hose Company, 12 Silverton Road, will feature entertainment by Sapphire from 9 p.m. to midnight Nov. 24 at the firehouse. The cost is $5 and the kitchen will be open. For more information, call 570-544-9974. The company will also have a children’s Santa workshop from 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 29-30 and Dec. 1. Call the aforementioned number for more information. The company will feature Seamus Kennedy from 3 to 7 p.m. Nov. 25. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door; the bar and kitchen will be open.

Mahanoy City

The Mahanoy City Public Library recently acknowledged the following book memorials: For John Goshiney by the Mahanoy City Book Club; for Celeste Danisavich by Mahanoy City Book Club; for Pat Marchalonis by Mahanoy City High School Class of 1958; for David Klesh by MCHS Class of 1958; for Eleanor Yuditsky by Diane D’Angelo; for Mary Ellen Marchalonis by Monica and Joe Alansky, Lillian Malasavage, Joan and James Goodman; for Rose M. Salman by Tom and Patricia Seiberling. The library also acknowledged a DVD donation for Robert Seiberling by Monica and Joe Alansky.

Pitman

This year’s Tri-Valley Ministerium Community Thanksgiving Service will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 21 at Hepler Church of God. The Rev. Mark Swanson will be the guest preacher; music will be provided by several area pastors joining for a special Thanksgiving anthem. All are welcome.

Pottsville

The Pottsville Free Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorial donations: For Jeffrey Bevan from Rose Marie Bevan and family; for Arthur Bohorad from Rosalie and Sylvan Lehrman; for Josephine Fasenmyer from Xi Beta Epsilon; for Emil Feryo Sr. from Philanthropic Club, Mary Holobetz, Dr. William R. Davidson; for David Gittleman from Rosalie and Sylvan Lehrman; for Andrea Hoffman from Alice Cremia; for Maribeth Lantz from Dolores Barton and family; for Janice M. Sedicino from Alice Cremia; for Timothy Wittman from J.D. and Stephanie Barton, Dolores Barton and family; for Gretchen Yeungling from Alice Cremia; for Gerald Yonchuk from Marion Kaiser. The library also acknowledged the following honors donation: For Fran Nagle from Philanthropic Club.

Pottsville

An event Saturday called Musicians United for David Haslam will present “Rockin’ the Stage 4 Dave,” a memorial concert to honor county resident and veteran entertainer Dave Haslam, who passed away in October due to cancer. The event will be held at Goodfellas Warehouse with showtime from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Doors will open at 7 p.m. Performances will be by 3zz A Crowd, Another Side, Sterling Koch and Freeway Jam, Nick Michels & His Parrot Band and Broken Spell. The cost is $10 with admission at the door only, no advance tickets. People must be 21 and older to attend. For more information, call 570-622-1572.

Pottsville

St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church will sponsor an all-you-can-eat homemade spaghetti dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at the parish center, 319 Mahantongo St. The cost is $8 for adults and $3.50 for children. People may eat at the center or take meals out. All are welcome.

Deeds

Ashland — Jacqueline Sabo to Metz Properties LLC; 500 S. Hoffman Blvd.; $78,650.

Auburn — Michael and Sheila L. Hummel to Michael and Sheila L. Hummel; 742 Mill St.; $1.

Barry Township — Albert J. and Catherine P. Strimel to Cheryl Cassarella; 3 Hawk Drive, Mountain Valley Lake; $26,000.

Ronnie L. and Anita K. Bixler, Eric R. and Angela R. Schalles and Robert J. and Beth A. Huntsinger to Michael R. and Lindsey R. Bixler; 0.885-acre property on Hinkel Road; $1.

Michael R. and Lindsey R. Bixler to Michael R. and Lindsey R. Bixler; 305 Hinkel Road; $1.

Branch Township — Walter J. and Ann Marie Kyrsten to Kyle Walter Kyrsten; 529 Spruce St.; $1.

Butler Township — Marisa Starr, individually and as executrix for the Estate of Florence Bulcavage, Ryan S. Starr and Donna and James Freeman to Ezequiel Santiago; 1018 Fountain St., Fountain Springs; $84,000.

Cass Township — Deborah A. Feliciano, executrix of the Estate of Joanne Urban, to Jeffrey C. Darst; 570 Forest Lane, Forestville; $99,400.

Monica Raczka to Trail Towing LLC; property on State Route 4002; $1.

Jason M. and Rachel Evans to Vaughn R. Shuman; 8 Willow Lane, Primrose; $65,000.

Coaldale — Bonnie J. Hellebrand to Carbon-Schuylkill Community Hospital Inc.; 0.23-acre property on Phillips Street; $120,000.

Thomas W. Peto to Stephen R. Knauss; 410 E. Water St.; $35,000.

Joseph W. Pennisi, executor of the Estate of Diana Pennisi, to Timothy Stephen Keer; 251 E. High St.; $6,500.

Joseph W. Pennisi, executor of the Estate of Diana Pennisi, to Timothy Stephen Keer; 253 E. High St.; $1.

Joseph W. Pennisi, executor of the Estate of Diana Pennisi, to Timothy Stephen Keer; 255 E. High St.; $1.

Cressona — Santander Bank NA to Moritz LLC; 23 Pottsville St.; $10,000.

East Brunswick Township — Philip and Diana Joswick to Arnold and Esther Eichert; 0.9035-acre property on Ricks Road; $44,000.

East Union Township — Michael Zerafa to Michael Zerafa and Theresa Zerafa; 102 Summit Road, Eagle Rock; $1.

Kevin G. and Christine R. Taylor to Stephen L. and Constance Zeigler; 20 W. Players Way, Eagle Rock; $305,000.

Foster Township — Diplomat Property Manger LLC to Stephen T. and Brenda Lynn Burgoon; 115 Valley Road; $22,500.

Frackville — Joshua G. Yoder to Walter R. Boyer Jr. and Dawn A. Oberheim-Zolomij; 110 N. Fourth St.; $45,000.

Scott L. Houck to Kyla Myers; 227 S. Lehigh Ave.; $92,500.

Gilberton — Angela Carls to Kennya Jackson; 2407 Water St.; $2,000.

Tax Claim Bureau of Schuylkill County to Borough of Gilberton; 2401 Water St.; $1.

Tax Claim Bureau of Schuylkill County to Charles P. Shaulis Jr.; 117 Growler St.; $100.

Girardville — Laplace Transforms LLC to Ubaldo Dominguez Vergara; property on John Street; $2,500.

Hegins Township — Patsy A. and Larry R. Miller to Darlene J. Klouser; 1347 W. Main St., Valley View; $1.

Darlene J. Klouser to Michael R. Klouser and James E. Klouser; 1347 W. Main St., Valley View; $1.

Sharon and James McDonald, Robin and Ricky Otto and Lisa Emerich to Ross M. and Jamie N. Schwalm; 1134 W. Walnut St., Valley View; $118,000.

Amy Lynne Updegrave, administratrix of the Estate of Richard Lamar Ernfield, and Joan M. Schaeffer to Kyle D. Bair and Kylie M. Spickler; 45 Dell Road, Hegins; $120,000.

Mahanoy City — Patricia Marie Whitecavage to Monica Capone; 1320 E. Centre St.; $5,000.

North Manheim Township — Pamela J. Souder to Joseph R. Gavalis Jr. and James R. Gavalis; two properties on Fifth Street, Willow Lake; $12,500.

Norwegian Township — Eric S. Lipton to Lisa E. Mullin; 1003 Schuylkill Manor Road; $92,900.

Orwigsburg — Terry Reinert Jr. to William E. Mohn; 401 E. Mifflin St.; $65,000.

Pine Grove Township — Steven H. Betz to Steven H. Betz and Scott M. Betz; 236 Tremont Road, Ravine; $1.

Pottsville — Joseph R. Smith to Declans Holding LLC; 908 W. Race St.; $20,000.

Victoria Ann Wilson to George Kenneth, trustee for Abacus Land Trust 11022018; 305 N. Ninth St.; $1.

John E. Bosche to Space Saverz LLC; property on Line Alley; $40,000.

Henry J. and Margaret Ann Eckley to Andrew J. and Lisa A. Konkus; 5 S. 25th St.; $90,000.

Ghaffar and Salim Akhtar Zafar to B&A Schuylkill LLC; Unit 105, Schuylkill Medical Plaza, Route 61; $300,000.

Steven and Norma Jean Olivo to Satnam Real Estate LLC; property at North 10th and West Market streets; $45,000.

Joseph C. Jr. and Dorothy M. Weise to Kim E. Felty; 501 Greenwood Ave.; $75,000.

Yanek Realty Corp. to Diehl’s Auto Sales LLC; three properties on West Market Street; $40,000.

Acorn Estates LLC to Diehl’s Auto Sales LLC; property on West Market Street; $4,500.

Rush Township — Mark W. Knock and Nancy A. Nork to Nancy A. Nork; 22 Fern Terrace, Lake Hauto; $1.

Sukauti Sahoo to Nicholas Buccieri and Teresa Daniels; 54 Ardmore Ave., Hometown; $215,000.

Andrew L. and Daisy E. Hertel to Dalton LaRosa; 626 Hauto Highway, Hometown; $123,000.

Saint Clair — John G. Percala, Grace A. Percala and Crystal N. Reed to Nelson G. Schuetrum; 408 E. Lawton St.; $41,500.

Schuylkill Haven — Nicole P. Fessler to Nicole P. and Lee R. Fessler and Lance M. Fessler; 315 Centre Ave.; $1.

Schuylkill Township — Colleen T. Barrett to Frank J. Czuczman and Colleen T. Barrett; 111 Main St., MaryD; $1.

Frank J. Czuczman to Frank J. Czuczman and Colleen T. Barrett; 113 Main St., MaryD; $1.

Colleen T. Barrett and Frank J. Czuczman to Frank J. Czuczman and Colleen T. Barrett; 111-113 Main St., MaryD; $1.

Joseph Toth, executor of the Estate of George Toth, to Joseph Toth; 37 Forest Lane, MaryD; $1.

Patricia Freeh Stefanek and Eugene A. Ritsick to Patricia Freeh Stefanek and Eugene A. Ritsick and Renee M. Styka; 27 Moss Glen Road, Brockton; $1.

Shenandoah — Mary Jo Larsen to Tabitha Quinonez; 213 E. Coal St.; $20,000.

Jose Ramos, by attorney in fact Santiago Ramos, to PPL Electric Utilities Corp.; property on South Market Street; $38,000.

Diane J. Labenski to Ariel and Jansell M. Nunez; 307 W. Oak St.; $30,000.

Tamaqua — Catherine J. Derr to Ariel Colon; 205 South St.; $16,000.

Water Wheel Properties LLC and JMAC Realty LLC to Scott M. and Marie Griffiths; 248 Owl Creek Road; $229,900.

Tremont Township — Crystal M. Lehr to Rick H. Sr. and Laurie A. Moyer; 182 Molleystown Road, Lorberry; $45,000.

Walker Township — Louise Davison to Dylan B. Rynkiewicz and Emily A. Brinich; 62 River Road, Reynolds; $81,500.

John T. Jr. and Donna Bell Wells to James R. and Suzanne W. Hutchinson; property in Camp Wildcat; $29,000.

Wayne Township — Thomas M. Stefero to Jason W. and Kelly M. Krise; 120 Hogan Drive, Lake Wynonah; $5,000.

West Mahanoy Township — Wotciech M. Bandurski to Manuel Heredia; property on Florida Avenue, Shenandoah Heights; $3,000.

Marriage licenses

Warren T. Peterson, Frackville, and Sandia A. Freeman, Philadelphia.

Anthony J. Kushmanick III, Tremont, and Laurey Ann Schaeffer, Tremont.

Robert Lee Winklebleck Jr., Pine Grove, and Kimberly Lynn Dunton, Pine Grove.

William Butler, Frackville, and Brittany N. Darker, Frackville.

Zachary A. Coulson, Minersville, and Angela N. Delellis, Minersville.

James M. Drey Jr., Schuylkill Haven, and Jerrine R. Tubosnick, Schuylkill Haven.

Samuel J. Young, Hamburg, and Faith R. Jones, Pottsville.

Matthew T. Melusky, Pottsville, and Holly M. Behney, Pottsville.

Jakel D. Stone, Bellefonte, and Brittnee Lynn Williams Crouell, Bowie, Maryland.

Charles J. Boyle, Orwigsburg, and Rebecca Ann Grubbs, Orwigsburg.

Timothy A. Kohr, Minersville, and Donna Lu Klinger, Minersville.

Michael W. Tipping, Pottsville, and Carol A. Mailloux, Pottsville.

Nicholas J. Forte, Barnesville, and Mercedes A. Steinkamp, Philipsburg.

Travis V. Humphrey, Pine Grove, and Alicia N. Bader-Crosson, Pine Grove.

Divorces

Eliza Ermold, Egg Harbor, New Jersey, from Benjamin Ermold, Reading.

Leonard Usalis, Tamaqua, from Kimberlie Usalis, Tamaqua.

Debra M. Zangari, Ringtown, from Joseph Zangari, Shenandoah.

Frank Gregory Cedeno, Mahanoy City, from Yeseney Maribel Santana De Cedeno, Ocoee, Florida.

Cynthia Fisher, Schuylkill Haven, from James Fisher, Schuylkill Haven.

SHENANDOAH — The rekindling of The Torch this month at Shenandoah Valley begins the latest incarnation of the school’s newspaper.

The return of the publication this time around comes in the form of a digital edition that allows it to reach many more readers than any previous printed edition ever could.

This year is an important time for the revival of The Torch since it was 90 years ago that it saw the light of day in 1928 in what was then Shenandoah High School.

Linda R. Hixson, technology teacher/webmaster/SSP coordinator, began thinking of reviving the publication in the prior school year and, with a group of supportive students willing to help, the idea came together.

The first edition was recently published online at www.svtorch.wordpress.com with a variety of articles, including the lead one on the revival and a listing of students who are part of the return. Called “Ninety Years Later and The Torch Still Burns,” the article explains the creation of The Torch, a bit of its ups and downs and its returning every so often as interest in it returned. The name of the publication refers to the “Torch of Knowledge” on the high school seal.

“This began last school year with the programming kids,” Hixson said. “They were in their second year and they had done the HTML and CSS and they wanted to develop a website. They wanted to put something out that was published to show off their hard work. So we looked at possibly hosting it here and doing it from scratch, but there were some security issues. So we decided if we’re going to build a website out there, how about if we bring back The Torch?”

Two of the core technologies of creating websites is Hypertext Markup Language and Cascading Style Sheets, which gave the students a foundation in website creation. HTML provides the structure of the page and CSS provides the (visual and aural) layout for a variety of devices, according to the World Wide Web Consortium.

“Basically it’s not a class for most of the kids. They write on their own time,” she said. “Then they email us the articles. The copy editor and the editor go over them and then they send them on to the boys (technology crew) and they take a section and keep it up to date.”

The editor-in-chief is junior Rebecca Adorno and co-editor is sophomore Jesse Carl, who is also the lead member of the technology crew, which also includes sophomores Anthony Muclada and Logan Caulfield. Photo editors are senior Gia Sanko and freshmen Jacqui Buchanan and Sydney Labosky.

“They’re really good kids and like to work,” she said. “And then I opened it up to writers. It was actually my editor-in-chief who came to me last year, and then I knew we could do it because I knew I had students who were going to be involved. Obviously this can’t run without involved kids. Rebecca basically has run with it once I opened it up.”

The initial start was using the Adobe Dreamweaver web design software, but due to some security issues, the switch was made to WordPress, which is the most popular online publishing platform.

“So it is not as much programming as we originally wanted, but there is still some programming stuff done behind the scenes. Annie Taylor (English teacher) has been a big help,” Hixson said. “I’m not an English person — I’m math — so when it came to sending kids out for things, I was trying to get things the easy way for them, but Mr. (Kevin) Keating, an English teacher, said that this is a learning opportunity and they should be doing this research on their own. So I stepped back and told them that they should figure it out and go find it, and that’s what they’re doing.”

The programming and writing students are joined by the talents of students interested in photography.

“The photo students are amazing,” she said. “If you look at the website, you see a torch that moves. That was created by student Sydney Labosky by making a GIF (Graphics Interchange Format). The students had to create a torch and pick the one we liked best. She went ahead and made a moving image out of it.”

Speaking on writing skills, Hixson said, “It’s helping the students develop their English skills. All of the English teachers here have been very helpful in answering questions and correcting.”

Hixson said prior editions of The Torch were looked at to see what went before and provide some ideas for the future.

According to the lead article in the new edition, The Torch has appeared and disappeared over its 90-year history depending on available funds and staffing issues. It returned in the 1990s under the advice of Anne Taylor, but it ended in 1999. It was revived in 2003, but eventually it went away.

Senior Kierstin Benjamin is a copy editor and a writer.

“I oversee the other articles to make sure that they are written properly, that the grammar is proper and that they make sense. That’s primarily my job,” Benjamin said.

“She’s part of my yearbook staff and she has a period in my room every day,” Hixson said. “It’s easier to give those students who I see them every day a lead role. She is very good with her English and she came recommended by our English teachers, so that is why I chose her as a copy editor.”

Adorno learned about the possible revival of The Torch and wanted to become involved.

“I like writing and journalism and decided to go to Mrs. Hixson, and soon after that I became editor,” Adorno said. “One thing I had to learn was how to properly type because I was typing too slow. I had to learn how use larger words and move things around. I had Jesse Carl help me.”

Adorno works with the writers through the editing process.

“The people who we have writing can really write. They’re really talented writers and there’s not much that needs to be fixed,” Adorno said.

As for future education, Adorno said, “I may minor in journalism, but I want to become an English teacher.”

Senior Brianna Mazack is one of the writers. She heard an announcement at the school about the need for writers and decided to see what she could do.

“I talked to Mrs. Hixson and it just went from there,” Mazack said. “I’ve always been a writer. I don’t think I would do it as a career, but I enjoy writing in my free time. I just did an article on fire prevention and will be doing an article on Veterans Day. We looked at other newspapers from other schools, like Pottsville and Pine Grove, to get an idea about how we wanted to write our articles, what pictures to use and stuff like that.”

Mazack is also in contact with her cousin, Savannah Marntic, who is studying at George Mason University and plans to be an editor.

“I ask her for advice on writing articles and she’s a big help,” Mazack said.

Labosky, who created the flaming torch, enjoys photography and is working with that part of the publication.

“I’m going to do some photo-editing with Photoshop and taking pictures for The Torch for sports and anything else that is going on,” Labosky said. “Last year I had a class with Mrs. Hixson and we learned a lot about Photoshop, so I decided to take another year and I really enjoy doing it.”

Carl explained the process from when stories are submitted.

“Rebecca usually gets the articles first straight from Mrs. Hixson, and after that I get to look through it again after she’s edited it the first time to make sure there are no errors and I fix the grammar and stuff. We send it to our English teacher Mrs. Taylor to review and finalize, and then we put it on the page.”

Carl said when there is a question about something in the article or a suggestion about a change or adding more information to make a paragraph more in depth, he emails his question and remarks to the writer since it is more convenient.

“I always try to keep an open connection with them to make sure the article is as good as it’s going to get,” Carl said.

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