ASHLAND — The courage, dedication, tenacity and love of country of all veterans was remembered Sunday at Veterans Day ceremonies through Schuylkill County and the United States.

In Ashland, members of American Legion Bernard J. Dolan Post 434 and Veterans of Foreign Wars O’Donnell-Martin-Baldino Post 7654 began their march at the VFW post at 10:45 a.m. with a police escort, moving east along Centre Street to the Veterans Memorial at Hoffman Boulevard in time for the 11 a.m. ceremony.

The parade front and honor guard lined up facing the memorial as the Ashland Fire Police directed traffic in the area. At each end of the lineup were the commanders of both posts — Daniel Weikel of the American Legion and Timothy Hahn of the VFW.

Ashland Mayor Raymond Walacavage continued a tradition by speaking about the importance of the day by recognizing veterans for their service.

“Veterans Day is an important day to keep in mind those who talk about all these great men and women who fought for our country. The day is dedicated to men and women who are living and who gave their lives so we can have the freedoms that we have today,” Walacavage said. “The freedoms we have today so that we can live under a democracy. And we don’t want to forget about our disabled veterans.”

Walacavage said there are many veterans who people pass by today who have silent suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder because of wars. There are those who have lost limbs and are suffering from their wounds that also need to be remembered, Walacavage said.

“All of these things that our veterans went through provided us with the freedoms we have today,” he said. “Freedoms such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press — all of these things that we take for granted because of what these veterans did.”

Walacavage expressed his pride in the veterans organizations, and he encouraged people to support the local posts by becoming members, even as social members.

“I say that the next time you run into a veteran, you should say, ‘Thanks for your service and thanks for giving us the freedoms that we have today,’ ” Walacavage said.

After a prayer was read for veterans, the seven-member honor guard gave a 21-gun salute and taps was played.

Earlier in the morning, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Ashland hosted Army veteran Frank R. Rice to speak about Veterans Day to the congregation. He was introduced by the Rev. Dana Heckman-Biel, pastor.

“As some of us were taught in school, on the 11th day on the 11th hour of the 11th month, the armistice was signed,” Rice said. “However, the armistice was signed six hours before, prior to that, at a place called Compiegne in a railroad car. By the time the communications got through, the message didn’t go to all areas of the battlefield, plus the word had to spread in quite a few different languages. So in the interim of that happening, you had two people that we know of who died and were the last ones to die in that war. One was at 10:45 hours and that was a Catholic chaplain and was the last officer to die, and the last military man died at 10:59 hours, very close to the end. In the hours that led up to the 11/11 time, 10,900 people from various countries died as the battle continued.”

Rice said there were 53,402 battle deaths in World War I, and 63,000 from non-battle deaths, mainly from the Spanish Flu.

“Originally, this was called Armistice Day. In 1954, President (Dwight) Eisenhower signed a proclamation that redesignated it Veterans Day,” Rice said. “Our neighbors to the north, the Canadians, and our British allies still call it Remembrance Day. This to me is more appropriate calling it Remembrance Day, because we’re not only remembering those who perished in World War I but also remembering those who perished in wars later to come. The Second World War proved that ‘The War to End All Wars’ were merely words. Twenty years later is when the Second World War actually began. And since then we have had the Korean War, Vietnam War and we have what our kids are fighting in the Middle East, plus we had different skirmishes in between, such as Granada and so on, where lives were lost, people were wounded and injured.”

Speaking of the Spanish Flu, Rice said, “ ‘The War to End All Wars’ came home to us here. At that time you had the Spanish Flu spread out through the world. We’re told that the Spanish Flu came here (to America) by our military people coming back from overseas. The flu continued until late 1919. Civilian deaths nationwide were 675,000 to 700,000 people, here in Ashland alone as of Oct. 30, 1918, according to the historical society in Pottsville, there were 620 cases reported in Ashland, out of which 93 people died. That’s up to that date.”

Rice said there were many recruits who died during that time while in training and are listed as casualties of World War I.

Rice said there is so much conflict in the world, and he suggested a way to help with finding peace.

“I think prayer is the only thing that is going to help us,” Rice said. “All of the diplomacy in the world, all of the bickering back and forth in parties and countries, I think it’s time for people to look in the mirror, get down on their knees and honestly say to God, ‘Help us. Help me.’ That to me is the only solution.”

Rice finished his talk with the reading of “In Flanders Fields,” written during World War I by Canadian physician Lt. Colonel John McCrae, who was killed shortly after writing the poem.

After Rice’s presentation, former Ashland VFW Commander Wilmer Quick came to the front and asked all veterans and first responders to stand to be recognized.

“On behalf of the United States government, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion of Ashland, I salute each and every one of you and wish you well,” Quick said. “These are the people here who did their duty. As for the first responders, these are the people who do it every day. It is not war, but it is (for firefighters) going into a fiery building to bring out people. Our police on patrol facing guns is not war, but it’s war to them. And as in war, people get killed. I have respect for all police in patrol. Believe me, their jobs I would not want. Imagine these people serving for 20 years waiting for retirement. These are people you should be thankful for.”

The Frackville American Legion Post 398 held its Veterans Day ceremony at 10:30 a.m. to honor veterans. After the ceremony, members of the post, the Sons of the Legion, the Ladies Auxiliary and president of the Legion Riders went to the Broad Mountain Health & Rehabilitation Center to visit with veterans and present gifts to them. After the visit, everyone returned to the post home for food and refreshments.

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

MINERSVILLE — A spa at the former McCann School of Business & Technology has a new home.

The Spa at the Plaza opened Sept. 22 at Kings Village Plaza in the former home of A&A Auto Stores. The spa, then known as The Spa at West End, was at the school on Woodglen Road, but left when the building was bought earlier this year after McCann closed.

“We didn’t move too far,” owner Shannon Brennan said.

Brennan signed a three-year lease for the new site, and eight of the nine employees at the Woodglen Road spa have jobs there.

“It just seemed like a shame for all of those people to lose their jobs,” Brennan said.

Brennan said many of the services they provide remain the same, including mud wraps, spa foot treatments, hot stone massage and therapeutic massages.

“We focus solely on massage therapy and spa therapies,” she said.

Brennan said the therapeutic massage, a combination of various massage techniques, is the most popular.

“We have a lot of people who come to us for pain relief,” Brennan said.

There are five treatment rooms, two to accommodate couples and three individual rooms.

“Business is good,” Brennan said.

Erica Boyer, manager, said it is best to make an appointment, which can be done by calling 570-581-8868, visitng The Spa at the Plaza on Facebook, or on location.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

POTTSVILLE — Many in Schuylkill County will have a Thanksgiving meal thanks to the Knights of Columbus Schuylkill Council 431.

This will be the 11th year for the meal distribution, Ron Whalen, financial secretary for Schuylkill Council 431 and treasurer of Schuylkill Council Charities, the nonprofit entity of Schuylkill Council 431. Whalen said he is constantly getting phone calls for the free meal.

“They are free to call 24 hours a day if they want to,” he said.

As of Thursday, 503 meals were requested. The meal consists of turkey with gravy, stuffing, yams/sweet potatoes, corn, bread, cranberry sauce and dessert.

Last year, 1,753 meals were delivered for Thanksgiving, a figure expected to be matched this year.

Whalen said the deadline to register is 5 p.m. Thursday. To register, call 570-628-3333, 570-516-9514 or 570-773-0627, or by email at KofC431@yahoo.com.

Volunteers are needed to deliver the meals. About 125 people helped out in 2017, Whalen said. Ideally, between 100 to 115 people are needed for the event.

“Right now, I’ve got orders from Tower City all the way to McAdoo,” Whalen said.

Students from Schuylkill Technology Center-South and North campuses are helping out by cooking some of the food. Students at STC-South will prepare the turkey, while those from STC-North will prepare the stuffing and sweet potatoes.

“The filling is actually cooked that day,” Whalen said.

Volunteers will be at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville.

Meals will be delivered between 9 a.m. and noon Thanksgiving. Someone must be home to accept the food. Meals will not be left at the residence.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

Woman taken to hospital after crash

POTTSVILLE — A city woman was taken to the hospital after a two-vehicle crash Monday at West Market and Montgomery streets.

Pottsville police said the crash occurred about 1:05 p.m. as a 2002 Buick LaSabre, driven by a 68-year-old woman, was traveling west on West Market Street and a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, driven by Joseph Putsavage, 60, of Saint Clair, pulled into the intersection from Montgomery Street into the path of the Buick.

Pottsville Police Chief Richard F. Wojciechowsky did not release the name of the woman, who was treated at the scene by Schuylkill Area EMS before being taken to a hospital for further treatment.

Police said both vehicles sustained extensive damage and had to be towed from the scene.

Sgt. Mark O’Toole, the investigating officer, will cite Putsavage for violating duties at stop signs.

In addition to Pottsville police and Schuylkill EMS, firefighters from Yorkville and West End fire companies responded to the scene.

Lykens man charged with strangulation

LYKENS — A 23-year-old borough man was jailed after being arrested by state police at Lykens following an assault that happened on North Second Street in this Dauphin County community around 9 a.m. Nov. 2.

Police said Jason Brown became involved in a verbal and physical altercation with a 24-year-old Halifax woman and at one point strangled the woman, briefly blocking her airway.

Brown was charged with felony strangulation, arraigned and committed to Dauphin County Prison unable to post bail, police said.

Police investigate grass damage

WILLIAMSTOWN — State police at Lykens are investigating a criminal mischief incident that happened at North Division and Elizabeth streets in this Dauphin County community between 5 p.m. Oct. 26 and 11 a.m. Oct. 30.

Police said someone drove a vehicle though a park and playground owned by the Borough of Williamstown leaving tracks and ruts that damaged freshly laid grass seed in the park.

Police said they are reviewing surveillance images from the area and said their investigation is ongoing.

One injured in two-vehicle crash

ELIZABETHVILLE — One person was injured in a two-vehicle crash that happened at the intersection of Route 209 and Romberger Road in Washington Township, Dauphin County, around 6 p.m. Thursday.

Police said Jeffrey A. Shrawder, 20, of Wiconisco, was driving a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze on Route 209 when he ran into the back of a 1999 Dodge 1500 driven by Wayne A. Kovack, 53, of Elizabethville, who was slowing to make a right turn onto Romberger Road.

Police said Kovack was transported to a hospital by EMS for injuries he suffered in the crash while Shrawder was not hurt.

SHENANDOAH — Veterans Day was marked in different locations in the borough Monday to honor the men and women who served in the armed forces during war and peace.

The Shenandoah Valley School District held its annual program in the high school auditorium with members of the American Legion Anthony P. Damato “Medal of Honor” Post 792 and AMVETS Post 7, both of Shenandoah, in attendance. The guest speaker was Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Joseph Demalis, a Shenandoah native and 1992 Shenandoah Valley graduate.

The program opened with a welcome from junior Sean James, who was the program moderator.

“Today, we acknowledge the men and women who answered the call to defend our country and preserve the freedom that they have insured for future generations of Americans,” James said. “Your sacrifices and commitment are the legacies we will seek to emulate and may your example inspire us to do all that we can to keep our country strong and free. May God continue to bless this wonderful country of ours.”

A traditional ringing of the chimes commemorated the signing of the armistice that led to the end of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. The Shenandoah Valley Band under the direction of John Shoener played the national anthem, which was sung by sophomore Jacqueline “Jackie” Bubnis. Everyone said the Pledge of Allegiance, which was followed by the invocation by Legion Chaplain Neal Smith.

An integral part of the program was the “MIA Remembrance.” A memorial was located near the stage with candles, a POW-MIA flag and an empty chair. Legion Commander Bruce Popalis and Adjutant Gordon Slater walked to the memorial with junior Alyssa Buchanan, who carried a folded American flag. After Popalis and Slater lighted the candles, Buchanan placed the flag on the empty chair.

Shenandoah Mayor Andrew Szczyglak made his traditional remarks, which were followed by remarks by Popalis and then a musical tribute to the branches of the armed forces.

Demalis was invited to the podium for his presentation by his niece, senior Emily Demalis. He has been deployed numerous times to nine locations in support of various military operations, including Operation Southern Watch, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is currently serving as superintendent of the Air Force Office of Special Investigation at the Quantico Marine Corps installation in Virginia.

He began with an explanation of the differences among Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

“Shenandoah and the coal region is an extremely patriotic area. The Hometown Heroes banners in Shenandoah, Frackville and the other towns is evidence that we love our military and our veterans, and it’s important that we continue to do that,” Demalis said. “Since our country’s founding, there have been people who have been willing to stand up and answer the nation’s call to give something more of themselves to defend our country and the freedoms that we have. Today has been Veterans Day since 1954 and it is important to recall this. Why is it important? Because so few have given so much for this country throughout our history, and it should not go unnoticed what their sacrifice means to all of us who are here today.”

Popalis conducted the requiem roll call with the names of local veterans who have died in the past year, which was followed by the playing of taps by band member Kathy Selbi. Seniors Emily Demalis and Katilyn Hepler announced the launch of their “Helping Our Heroes” campaign.

Accompanied by the band, Bubnis sang, “Eternal Father,” a video tribute to the armed forces was shown and the benediction was offered by Smith.

Trinity Academy held its annual Veterans Day prayer service in Divine Mercy Roman Catholic Church. Many veterans from Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard attended the service that was conducted by students.

The prayer service was organized by Sister Margaret McCullough, IHM, principal; Sister Mary Glackin, IHM, and Sue Klinger. The procession into the church was led by flag bearer Jordan Johnson, whose grandfather, John J. Shigo, McAdoo, was present at the service and served in the Navy as a sonar technician.

A history of Armistice Day/Veterans Day was presented by Kaitlyn Pinkey. Her aunt is Lt. Col. Mary Anczarski, of Shenandoah, who was redeployed last Friday and was unable to be present at the service. Anczarski was represented by a framed photograph with other photographs of veterans on a special table near the sanctuary of the church. The school asks family members to bring photos to honor them each year.

Ryan Gianelli led everyone in the following opening prayer:

“Dear Jesus, you said, ‘There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ We gather today and ask you, Lord, to bless and protect all those men and women who have, in their military service, sacrificed their time, strength, ambition, health and even their lives on this earth to benefit friends, known and unknown. We honor all our veterans in your name. We thank you, as we thank them, for their faithful service. Amen.”

A short video called “Veterans Day Salute” was then presented to everyone to reflect on the veterans’ service while hearing the song “God Bless the USA.”

The honoring of the individual service branches and those who served in them was next. Diane Kim named each branch and gave a brief history of the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and the Coast Guard. Kerrigan Digris announced the names, rank and hometown of each of the veterans present.

As each service branch was mentioned, a student holding the branch seal walked to the front, and each veteran in that service was called to the front. Students carrying the seals were: Army, Emily Artz; Marine Corps, Leah Grabosky; Navy, Anna Grabosky; Air Force, Brianna Wasko; and Coast Guard, Samantha Krusinsky.

After the student body sang the ‘Armed Forces March,’ the Prayer of the Faithful was read by Jesus Tovar and Giovanni Lee.

The kindergarten class of Dolores Sadusky formed an honor guard on both sides of the center aisle for the veterans as they left the church. The service was followed by a reception in the school cafeteria. The veterans received gift bags that included cards, poppies made by the second- and third-graders, and flags by the kindergarten students.

Members of the Shenandoah American Legion post held its annual flag retirement ceremony on the grounds of the Columbia Hose and Steam Fire Engine Company No. 1.

Incorrectly called a “flag burning ceremony,” the flag retirement ceremony provides a uniform, dignified way to dispose of unserviceable flags that are tattered, worn or torn and have been flown at veterans posts, homes and other buildings, or have marked the graves of veterans who served in times of war and peace.

The ceremony began with post Commander Bruce Popalis saying, “Sergeant-at-Arms, advance and present the flags for disposal.”

“Commander, we have the honor to present these flags of our country for disposal that have been deemed unserviceable,” replied post Adjutant Gordon Slater, who was acting in the role of sergeant-at-arms.

“Comrades, we have presented that these flags of our country, which have been inspected and judged, as unserviceable. They have reached their present state in a proper service of tribute, memory and love,” Popalis said. “Let these flags of our country be retired and destroyed with respectful and honorable rites, and their places be taken by bright new flags of the same size and kind, and let no grave of our soldier or sailor or airman dead be unhonored and unmarked.”

Smith offered the following prayer: “Almighty God, captain of all hosts and commander over all, bless and consecrate this present hour. We thank you for our country and its flag and for the liberty for which it stands. O God, we thank you for the flag of our country and for all our flag represents. We thank you for giving the victory to the brave and valiant men who gave their last measure of strength that it might wave over the land of the free and home of the brave. We thank you for giving us the ideals of faith and liberty, for preserving the sanctity of our homes and for freedom of worship. Conscious of our limitations and our deep unworthiness, we pray that our flag may bind together the many elements in our own dear country, and foster in our ranks a 100 percent Americanism. Make us who have served our country in time of war willing at all times to uphold and defend our Constitution and our government. Grant that our 50 sovereign states remain forever an indissoluble union flying the flag the same flag.”

Smith ended, “We commit these flags worn out in worthy causes for disposal.”

An honor guard fired the rifle salute, followed by post service officer Joseph Chowanas playing taps.

After the ceremony, some of the worn flags were placed in a pit and lighted. Members of Scout Troop 721 and others who attended the ceremony were invited to throw flags onto the fire.

In the afternoon, Ateeco Inc. held its annual Veterans Day ceremony in the employee parking lot at the Mrs. T’s Pierogies plant. The ceremony recognizes and thanks employees who are veterans. The national anthem was sung by Shenandoah Valley student Jackie Bubnis, and the invocation and comments were by Human Resources Vice President Christopher S. Dende.

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

Geisinger medical center, Danville

To Justin Pasinski and Skye Goodman-Rubright, Saint Clair, a daughter, Oct. 27.

Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill S. Jackson Street

To Jessey Long and Amanda Mosolino, Pottsville, a daughter, Oct. 18.

POTTSVILLE — A Tremont man will not have to serve more time in prison after admitting Friday to a Schuylkill County judge that he drove under the influence and with a suspended license while possessing drugs and paraphernalia in November 2016.

William J. Boyd Sr., 39, pleaded guilty to driving under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under suspension. Prosecutors withdrew charges of disregarding traffic lane, failure to drive at a safe speed, careless driving and seat belt violation.

President Judge William E. Baldwin accepted the plea and, pursuant to an agreement between prosecutors and the defendant, sentenced Boyd to time served to five years in prison with immediate parole, pay costs, $1,500 in fines, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account, a $50 bench warrant fee and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, and perform 100 hours community service.

State police at Schuylkill Haven charged that Boyd was DUI with the suspended license on Nov. 27, 2016, in Reilly Township.

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

Jordan D. Balthaser, 18, of Schuylkill Haven; disorderly conduct; $100 fine. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of terroristic threats.

Henry T. Glunz, 31, of Pine Grove; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and 10 hours community service.

Michael R. Hamm, 50, of Auburn; theft; 12 months probation, $50 CJEA payment and $1,780 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of receiving stolen property.

Kati L. Hoffman, 28, of Tower City; two counts each of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia; time served to 12 months in prison with immediate parole, 24 months consecutive probation, $200 in SAEF payments, $50 CJEA payment, $172 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Harrisburg and 10 hours community service.

Caleb M. Johnson, 18, of Schuylkill Haven; disorderly conduct; $300 fine. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of possession of a weapon on school property.

Bradley S. Maines, 23, of Mahanoy City; recklessly endangering another person; 23 months probation and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew charges of DUI and failure to yield to emergency vehicle.

Tyler J. Roeder, 28, of Pottsville; possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia; 24 months probation, $100 SAEF payment and $50 CJEA payment.

Tabitha L. Schriner, 25, of Cressona; possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of endangering the welfare of children.

Joseph E. Shustack Jr., 52, of Shenandoah; resisting arrest and disregarding traffic lane; two years probation, $25 fine and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew charges of DUI and failure to stop at red signal.

Shod L.G. Zehner, 18, of Schuylkill Haven; harassment and disorderly conduct; $600 in fines. Prosecutors withdrew charges of strangulation and simple assault.

In other county court action, Judge Charles M. Miller recently accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, the following people.

Jasmine C. Hunsicker, 21, of Lehighton; DUI and possession of drug paraphernalia; 72 hours to six months in prison concurrent with Carbon County sentence, $1,000 fine, $100 SAEF payment and $189 bench warrant fee.

Kathy R. Huntsinger, Hegins; no contest plea to four counts of endangering the welfare of children and one of maintaining or operating facility without a license; nine to 23 months in prison, two years consecutive probation, $50 CJEA payment, $5,381.38 restitution, 20 hours community service and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Dennis E. Leedy, 61, of Lebanon; DUI and failure to drive at a safe speed; 90 days to six months in prison, $325 in fines, $100 SAEF payment and 10 hours community service. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of a small amount of marijuana, no turn signal and improper signaling.

Brandon M. Merwine, 33, of Hegins; fleeing or eluding police, resisting arrest, DUI, possession of drug paraphernalia, disregarding traffic lane, failure to drive at a safe speed and operating vehicle without valid inspection; nine to 18 months in prison, $1,075 in fines, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment, $133 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, $400 restitution to Lehigh Valley Health Network, 10 hours community service and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew charges of escape, careless driving, driving unregistered vehicle, improper display of plate, operating vehicle without required financial responsibility and reckless driving.

Anthony Smith, 50, of New Philadelphia; receiving stolen property; one to 12 months in prison.

David P. Wolfe Jr., 33, of Frackville; theft; 12 months probation consecutive to current sentence and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of receiving stolen property.

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

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

POTTSVILLE — New Christmas lights are up in Garfield Square.

Workers from the city street department installed the snowflake decorations Monday on the light poles.

“We wanted to make sure it had a holiday look still coming through the square,” Dave Clews, president of the Pottsville Business Association, said Monday.

Bradford pear trees were decorated with lights in previous years, but the trees were removed as part of the Garfield Square Streetscape Project finished last year. The lights were discarded.

The PBA and city each donated $2,500 toward the 10 decorations bought from Rileighs Outdoor Decor, Bethlehem. They were ordered in July and arrived in September.

Each 48-inch snowflake light has 39 lights.

“The first night they will be lit is when the mayor has the Christmas tree lighting,” Superintendent of Streets Tom Whitaker said Monday. The tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for Nov. 24.

Clews said he hopes the public enjoys the new lights and the “old-fashioned hometown pride for the holidays.”

In addition to the snowflakes, miyabe maple trees planted in Garfield Square last November will be decorated with white lights. The manger will be placed in the square, as will the remainder of the Christmas decorations, Whitaker said.

A 30-foot Christmas tree will arrive early next week. The street department picked the tree from a farm in Dorrance, Luzerne County.

“It’s definitely bigger than last year’s tree,” Whitaker said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

Anthony J. Kilker

SHENANDOAH — A Luzerne County man charged with robbing a bank in Shenandoah on Oct. 22 waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker.

Jamie Lee Johnson, LKA 92 Columbia Ave., Hanover and currently an inmate in Schuylkill County Prison, was arrested by Shenandoah Police Chief George Carado and charged with three counts of robbery and one count each of theft, receiving stolen property and simple assault.

By waiving his right to a hearing Johnson will now have to answer to all six charges against him in Schuylkill County Court.

Carado charged Johnson with entering the M&T Bank at 2 S. Main St. around 11:15 a.m., demanding money from a teller and then jumping over a counter and grabbing cash before fleeing.

Johnson was identified after a surveillance camera image released to the media led to his identification that was later confirmed by his mother, Carado said.

Other court cases included:

George D. Mammarella, 58, owner of Village Auto Sales, 31-39 E. Vine St., Mahanoy City; waived for court: theft by deception, deceptive business practices, tampering with records or identification, engaging in unprofessional conduct and substantial misrepresentation of material facts.

William J. Pesavage, 51, of 148 Mount Olive Blvd., Shenandoah; waived for court: DUI, DUI-highest rate, driving with an alcohol level of 0.02-percent or higher-second offense, driving with a suspended or revoked license and careless driving.

Khalil Rahiim Bell, 39, of 175 S. Pine St., York; waived for court: possession of a controlled substance-contraband by inmate, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Nicole Ann Genesio, 33, of 120 S. York Road, Apt. 9, Hatboro; waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a small amount of marijuana, contraband-controlled substances, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Isaiah M. Aviles, 22, of 637 E. Centre St., Mahanoy City; withdrawn: assault of law enforcement officer. Waived for court: resisting arrest and criminal attempt to commit disarming a law enforcement officer.

William J. Mooney, 47, of 334 W. Centre St., Mahanoy City; withdrawn; criminal trespass, aggravated assault, disorderly conduct and harassment. Waived for court: resisting arrest and simple assault.

Marissa A. Garcia, 25, of 39 W. Spruce St., Mahanoy City; held for court: intimidation of a witness or victim, terroristic threats, disorderly conduct and hindering apprehension or prosecution.

Jarett Lee Weikel, 29, of 506 W. Poplar St., Shenandoah; withdrawn: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance. Waived for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Anisha J. Tyson, no age available, of 4807 Tackawanna St., Philadelphia; waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, contraband-controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance.

Braeden DeLong, 18, of 425 W. Spruce St., Mahanoy City; waived for court: burglary, criminal trespass, criminal mischief and theft.

Joshua D. Joseph, 33, of 718 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City; withdrawn: aggravated assault, simple assault, unlawful restraint, recklessly endangering another person and harassment.

Tiffany L. Lutz, 30, of 57 Lost Creek Road, Box 111, Lost Creek; withdrawn: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance. Waived for court: displaying a plate card in an improper vehicle, driving without a license, driving without insurance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sonya L. Stefanick, 47, of 307 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City; held for court: DUI-controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Troy A. Belt, 27, of 522 Harrison St., Hazleton; waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia.

MINERSVILLE — Borough police have filed charges against a man and woman stemming from a drug sweep in and around the borough last week.

Police said Donald A. Wrona, 46, and Paulette Sue Stablum, 47, both of 705 Walnut Lane, Mar Lin, were each charged with felony possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and receiving stolen property as well as misdemeanor offenses of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Patrolman Jeffrey Bowers said the charges against the two were the result of a search warrant authorized by Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko, Port Carbon, and executed at their home around 12:30 p.m. Thursday.

During a search of the property, Bowers said, officers found multiple white wax paper packs containing a white powdery substance suspected to be heroin or opiates in a kitchen cabinet drawer.

Also found during the search was a large glassine baggie of green vegetable matter that tested positive for marijuana as well as a large amount of drug packaging materials, drug paraphernalia and digital scales, Bowers said.

He said that while searching the basement of the home, officers found a black pouch containing two handguns. A subsequent check of the weapons revealed that one – a Smith and Wesson .38 Special – was listed as stolen by the Pennsylvania State Police Schuylkill Haven station.

Also seized was a blue denim purse found in the master bedroom that contained multiple resealable bags containing pills and pre-packaged crystal substances that tested positive for methamphetamine and ready for resale, Bowers said.

Finally, Bowers said that police found inside the purse a ledger book identifying drug customers and the amounts of drug transactions.

He said the purse was identified as belonging to Stablum and had items identifying the drugs as being connected to Wrona.

In addition to these charges that were filed with Plachko, both Wrona and Stablum were jailed earlier Thursday when taken into custody during the drug sweep that resulting in 15 of 19 suspected drug dealers being apprehended.

Stablum was arraigned before Plachko on charges of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, conspiracy, criminal use of a communications facility, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia for selling heroin to an undercover officer for $175 in the area of her home on Oct. 8.

In a separate complaint, Bowers charged Stablum with identical charges for selling heroin to an undercover officer for $50 in the area of her home, also on Oct. 8.

She was then committed to prison unable to post $100,000 straight cash on each case for a total of $200,000.

Also on Thursday, Wrona was charged with hindering apprehension and obstruction of justice for hindering or trying to hinder Stablum being taken into custody at their home.

Wrona was also committed to prison unable to post 10 percent of $25,000 bail.

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

Ashland

The Ashland Old-Fashioned Downtown Christmas will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 8 on North Fifth Street. The Station House will be open. The event will include free carriage rides, hot dogs, hot chocolate and desserts. The Ashland Area Community Choir will perform. Event coordinators include the Ashland Area Historic Preservation Society and American Legion Post 434. All are welcome.

Ashland

The Barry Township tree lighting and children’s Christmas party are set for 6 p.m. Nov. 25 at the township community center. The free party will include food, door prizes and a Santa visit. Children must be accompanied by adults. For more information, call 570-817-6107.

Forestville

Forestville Citizens Fire Company No. 1, 1 Line Ave., is taking orders for a 10:30 a.m. Saturday soup sale. The cost is $8 per quart and choices include beef vegetable, turkey noodle, bean, stuffed pepper, Mexican cheese, cream of broccoli, and chicken and sausage jambalaya. To order, call 570-544-6930 and leave a detailed message.

Frackville

St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church is having a Christmas nut roll sale with orders begin taken now until Dec. 9. The variety includes poppy seed, English walnut, apricot, seedless red raspberry, prune and pumpkin cheese. Pickups will be 5 to 6 p.m. Dec. 15 and noon to 1 p.m. Dec. 16 in the church hall. For more information, call 570-874-2169.

Mahanoy City

A designer purse/UGGS bingo will being at 12:30 p.m. Sunday at West End Fire and Rescue Company. The cost is $25 in advance and $30 at the door. A meal, desserts and coffee are included. Tickets are available at the company Facebook page or by texting 570-778-6118. For more information, call 570-773-0870.

Minersville

A block shoot and meat wheel will begin at noon Saturday at Sunny Rod and Gun Club. The event will feature $20 gift cards and meat trays from Mar Lin Markets. Food and beverages will be on sale. For more information, call 570-527-3819.

Minersville

An all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet will begin at 7:30 a.m. Nov. 25 in St. Nicholas Hall, Route 901, Primrose. The cost is $9 for adults and free for children under 12. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-544-4581.

New Ringgold

A free community Thanksgiving dinner will be served from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Friedens Lutheran Church. Meals will include roasted turkey, potato filling, gravy, corn, green beans, candied sweet potatoes, lettuce with hot bacon dressing, cranberry sauce and salad as well as desserts. There will be no takeouts. For more information, call 570-943-2980.

Orwigsburg

The 36th annual Holly Trail is set to begin at noon Dec. 1 with the tour including four homes, a local church, the Orwigsburg Area Free Public Library and apartments at 216 W. Independence St. Participants will be able to enjoy tea with cookies at Kimmel’s Church and other activities all to benefit the library. The cost is $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the event. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-366-1638.

Saint Clair

The Saint Clair Senior Citizens group will meet at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Alert Fire Company, 34 S. Second St. Participants will discuss plans for a Christmas party to be held at 1:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at Hoss’ Steak and Seafood.

Schuylkill Haven

People will be able to dance the night away from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday at the Schuylkill Haven American Legion will music by Mountain Valley Crickers. The cover charge is $3. For more information, call 570-385-5013.

Editor’s note: This is the final installment in a yearlong series about organizations in Schuylkill County that give back to our communities.

Organizations in the west end and all over Schuylkill County give back to the community in myriad ways. Here is a look at some of them:

Tower City Moose Lodge

The Tower City Moose Lodge 1603 mainly serves the Williams Valley School District; however, it also donates to groups outside the area due to a diverse membership.

Some of the groups the lodge supports include the Williams Valley Food Pantry, Williams Valley Community Center, Williamstown Youth Athletic Association, surrounding fire companies, Tower Porter Old Home Week, Porter Tower Recreational League, Tower City softball, Tower Porter Rotary, Williams Valley Ministerium, Williams Valley sports teams, Ronald McDonald House of Scranton, Boy Scouts, Nadine Miller Softball Tournament for cancer research, Williams Valley Teener League, Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA and more.

The Tower City lodge is celebrating its 100th anniversary as Tower City celebrates its 150th anniversary. The Women of The Moose is celebrating its 65th anniversary.

The lodge at 536 E. Grand Ave., Tower City, is open 4 p.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday. It opens at noon Friday and 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. It closes at 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 p.m. Sunday.

To become a member, call the lodge during business hours or email John M. Buffington, administrator, at tclodge@comcast.net.

The lodge meets at 8 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of the month; Women of The Moose meet at 7:30 p.m. on second and fourth Tuesdays.

Hegins Valley Arts & Crafts Faire

The annual event serves the community and promotes the arts in the area. Proceeds from the faire benefit local groups and organizations.

The event, held the third Saturday of September at Hegins Park, has a theme of “Come to the Country.”

The event started in 1990 with an idea by Sandy Romberger. She had visited a craft show in Lititz, met Cindy Herring and spoke with friends about having something similar at Hegins Park. Romberger met with the Hegins Park Association for a $1,000 loan to start the event, with hopes of raising money to benefit the community. Elected officers were Romberger, president; Jane Maurer, vice president, Debra Specht, secretary; and Herring, treasurer. Some original committee members remain on the committee.

There were 90 vendors the first year. The group paid back the loan and gave $700 to three local organizations: Hegins Fire Company, Tri-Valley Public Library and Hegins Park Association.

The number of crafters increased to 200 by 1992, the same year that Hegins Area Ambulance Association and Tri-Valley Charities were added to the contribution list.

This year, the 29th annual Faire had 230 craftsmen from Pennsylvania and nearby states, 23 food vendors and various groups.

Overall, the group has donated more than $250,000. The group donated $13,000 this month to Valley View Park Association, Christmas Outreach Program, Tri-Valley Library, St. John’s Emergency Food Closet, Hegins Valley Fire & Rescue, Hegins Ambulance Association., Heg-ins Park Association, Sacramento Fire Company, Tri-Valley Charities, Tri-Valley Pool, Little Blessings Daycare & Preschool, Light-Up the Town and Trinity Lutheran Day Care.

The committee members are Dorothy Klouser, president; Melissa Zimmerman, vice president; Tricia Zimmerman, secretary; Cindy Herring, treasurer; Lois Graham, Rebecca Kline, Nancy Blazer, Deb Blazer, Kathryn Otto, Ann Bonwit, Jody Mack, Jennifer Neye, Beverly Klinger, Carol Masser, and Roberta Kieffer.

Proceeds given to organizations vary yearly depending on the faire’s success.

The 30th Craft Faire will be Sept. 21, 2019. For more information, call 570-682-9541 or 570-682-8181 or visit the faire’s page on Facebook.

Tri-Valley Youth

Activities Fund

The mission of the Tri-Valley Youth Activities Fund is to enhance the quality of life for all members of the community and surrounding areas by promoting and enhancing infrastructure needed to attract and retain the best and brightest, so the vitality of our region is sustained for generations to come. It serves the Tri-Valley School District.

The group hosts annual events for the community. In turn, it offers grants from proceeds of these events to local organizations in need. Its signature events include the annual Hot Potato 5K/Tater Tot Trot and Tri-Valley Trunk or Treat

The fund was founded in 2015 by Sterman Masser Inc., which wanted to give back to the community.

To volunteer, email TVYAF15@gmail.com.

Schuylkill County’s VISION

The mission of Schuylkill County’s VISION is to mobilize community resources to help create a better future for Schuylkill County.

VISION is busy in Schuyl-kill County facilitating programs and projects that benefit communities and residents. It works with coalitions of county residents to tap into strengths and skills necessary for community projects.

The organization organizes events such as the Block of Art each April, gathers students from all county high schools to participate in the Schuylkill County Youth Summit, educated the public about healthy lifestyle choices and refurbishes parks and builds gardens.

VISION works with local, regional, state and national programs to create a better future for Schuylkill County. The board of directors includes 18 professionals from across Schuylkill County, led by C. Ryan Bates of Evans Network of Companies. VISION has directors from different business sectors of the community as well as an advisory board.

VISION is undergoing a rebranding in 2018. Working with local artist Rob Mull, VISION hopes to simplify and modernize its logo to help make VISION more recognizable for the public.

VISION holds an annual 5K called the Halloween Hustle: 5K Zombie Run that features students and adults from the county dressed as the “walking dead” to encourage to runners to run faster as they encounter them along the route. The event occurs on the Saturday prior to Halloween each year.

All interested in volunteering to help VISION may contact Jeanne Elberfeld, executive director, at jelberfeld@schuylkillvision.com.

Schuylkill County

Historical Society/Museum

The Historical Society of Schuylkill County was incorporated in 1903. The name has changed to the Schuyl-kill County Historical Society, but it is still the county’s official historical society.

Its purpose is to discover, procure and preserve the records of county history and any materials which may illustrate the history.

The society, at 305 N. Centre St. in Pottsville, has historical materials used by members, researchers, scholars and the public. The present location is the historic Centre Street Grammar School that was built during the Civil War.

The Schuylkill County Historical Society has been a cornerstone organization and its efforts have successfully preserved and presented the county’s history through publications, exhibits and ongoing collection of historical items and ephemera. The society is always interested in historical photographs of Schuylkill County, yearbooks, artifacts, etc.

The society exists for those who want to take advantage of its diverse collections and opportunities to use its research materials. It provides information and services worldwide. Visitors and researchers from throughout the nation and overseas are society members.

The society has more than 20 volunteers.

It benefits the community by offering a variety of programs, events and activities for all ages. The society hosts student interns (high school and collegiate), after-school student tours and senior volunteers. The research library is a resource for genealogists and historical event researchers.

The SCHS is an autonomous organization; however, it works collaboratively with historical societies from throughout the county.

It offers haunted history tours, commemorative exhibits, holiday marketplace, year-round museum tours and bus tours.

Its officers are: Jay Zane, president; John Walsh, vice -president; Diana Prosymchak, treasurer; JoAnn Chuba, secretary; and Tom Drogalis, executive director.

The board of directors meets monthly at the museum in Pottsville. All are welcome to become a member. Those interested can visit the society at 305 N. Centre St. or join online at www.schuylkillhistory.org. To get involved, email: sch.hist@Comcast.com or phone: 570-622-7540.

Creating Zen

Creating Zen has partnered with Schuylkill Women in Crisis to provide a bodycentered trauma healing multi-staged seminar that focuses on healing painful experiences through the body by yoga, massage and other forms of movement.

Several professional women grouped their talents to start Creating Zen. Trauma survivors carry mental and physical scars of their experiences, and by helping them heal in a holistic way, they are often able to move past difficulties and heal and live fulfilled lives.

To become a member, contact us nownzenistas@gmail.com or call 570-640-5350

The group’s programs run in several sessions throughout the year. There are three stages to programs, and fees are “pay what you can” because the group doesn’t want anyone to not have the means to participate.

The program has been written into a grant through SWiC to run the program from now through September 2020 for its clients. The program will be incorporating educational material about trauma and safety for participants and allowing for group work to build connection and community. The program is based on research by experts such as Judith Herman, Bessel van der Kolk, Vincent Felitti and Robert Anda.

Tamaqua Public Library

The mission of the Tamaqua Public Library is to provide information, accessibility and literacy for Tamaqua area residents and all county residents.

There is computer access and Wi-Fi for registered patrons and reading programs for children and young adults. There is also local history material, ebooks, periodicals and DVDs.

The library offers spring, summer and fall reading programs for children as well as a teen program during the school year. It also has a monthly book discussion group.

The library was founded near the end of the Great Depression, which revealed the need for a venue to provide free books, newspapers and a place for neighbors to meet and discuss life.

Signature events include an annual chicken/beef platter sale and bake sale, Dine Out at the Tamaqua Station Restaurant and end-of-summer vendor event.

To become a member, visit the library at 30 S. Railroad St. or call 570-668-4660.

Mahanoy City

Elks Lodge 695, East Centre Street, will have a dance at 8 p.m. Nov. 23 featuring classic rock music by Sakes Alive. The event is for people 21 and older and the cost is $5 per person. For more information, call 570-773-0629.

Pine Grove

A concert by the Teen Challenge Choir is set for 6 p.m. Nov. 24 at Jacob’s Lutheran Church. Choir members will perform and talk about some of their struggles. Freewill offerings will be accepted; all are welcome. For more information, call 570-345-8216.

Pottsville

The 10th annual Christkindlmarkt will be held Dec. 1 and 2 at the Schuylkill County Council for the Arts, 1440 Mahantongo St. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-622-2788 or go online to www.sccarts.com.

Schuylkill Haven

A community Thanksgiving service with Festival of Choirs will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday at Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church, 252 Dock St. Special prelude music featuring organ, piano, handbells, choir and brass will begin at 3:45 p.m. The service of scripture, hymns and anthems will feature music by the choirs of First United Methodist Church, Julie Saunders, director; Grace Evangelical Congregational Church, Judith Devlin, director; St. Mark’s United Church of Christ, Lee Ferrier, director, and Jerusalem Lutheran Church, Beverly Eiche Kriner, director, as well as singers from Bethany Christian Fellowship, Cressona and First United Methodist, Port Carbon. Instrumental music will include brass, handbells, organ and piano. Both offerings and a collection of non-perishable food items will be given to the Schuylkill Haven Food Pantry. All are welcome; Jerusalem church is accessible to the handicapped.

Shenandoah

A dine-out fundraiser to benefit the Polish American Fire Company will be held from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 24 at the Vernalis Restaurant, 32 S. Main St. In a press release, Polish American member John Morris said people can enjoy “delicious home-cooked food” and help the fire company at the same time, as the eatery will donate a portion of its sales to the firefighters. All are welcome to participate. For more information, email jomorris@ptd.net.

Shenandoah

The local M&T Bank branch’s annual coat drive has been completed. M&T, according to a release, partnered with Divine Power of Christ Church, Shenandoah, to distribute the coats collected to people in need. Interested people can visit the church, 38 E. Oak St., from 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday during its monthly open kitchen to the public. The bank and church thanked all who donated coats. “This is the 16th year for our annual coat drive and we look forward to more years to come to help those in need,” Mark J. Bernardyn, vice president and senior manager of the local M&T branch, said in the release.

Tamaqua

The deadline to register for the November diaper distribution through Diaper Depot is today. Diaper Depot, a ministry of Zion Lutheran Church that provides free diapers, will have the distribution on Saturday. Requests received after today will be kept for the Dec. 15 distribution. All requests will be verified either by phone or email. The program is open to families in the Tamaqua Area School District. For those taking part in their first pickup, people must provide proof of residence and a birth certificate or other identification for each child being served. Diaper sizes are newborn to size 6, available for children to age 4. Diaper distributions take place by appointment only, organizers said in a press release. Requests for diapers must be made online at www.ziontamaqua.com/diaper-depot or by calling 570-668-2180 from 1 to 5 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and 8 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Thursdays at least three days prior to the distribution. All requests will be verified either by phone or email. Guidelines for the program are available online at www.ziontamaqua.com/diaper-depot or at the Diaper Depot Facebook page.

DONALDSON — A North Carolina truck driver was trapped inside his vehicle for more than an hour Tuesday morning when he ran into the back of another truck on Interstate 81 in Frailey Township, police said.

State police Cpl. Brian Walters of the Frackville station said the crash happened around 10:25 a.m. in the northbound lanes in the area of mile marker 110.5.

Walters said Gary E. Shaver, 49, of Albermarle, was driving a 2014 Kenworth tractor-trailer north in a work zone where the left lane of the road was closed and Victor Ceban, 27, of Orlando, Florida, was driving a Freightliner tractor-trailer and stopped in the right lane for traffic in front of him when Shaver drove into the back of his vehicle.

After impact, the Shaver truck veered to the right, went off of the right side of the road and came to a stop on the right shoulder, facing northeast. Walters said the Ceban truck was pushed forward and came to a stop in the right lane facing north.

Shaver was trapped inside the cab of his truck for more than an hour while firefighters from Minersville, Donaldson and Tremont used hydraulic tools to free him.

After being extricated from the wreckage, Shaver was flown to Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, for treatment of injuries he suffered in the crash. No information was available as to the extent of injuries Shaver suffered.

The crash shut down the northbound lanes of the interstate for about 90 minutes and area fire police assisted with traffic control at the Tremont Exit, about three miles south of the crash site.

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

POTTSVILLE — Mayor James T. Muldowney honored a longtime member of the clergy at Monday’s city council meeting.

The Rev. Harold Hand, a Pottsville resident, was recognized for 40 years of dedication to the ministry. He is the pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, 300 W. Arch St.

Born in the city, he graduated from Williams Valley High School and attended Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in religion. He received his Masters of Divinity degree from Lutheran Theological Seminary, Gettysburg, and was ordained Aug. 6, 1978, Muldowney said. He has served congregations in Birdsboro, Nescopeck and Schuylkill Haven, the mayor said.

“Now therefore, be it resolved, that I, Mayor James T. Muldowney, on behalf of the City of Pottsville, do hereby recognize and honor Pastor Harold Hand in commemorating his ministry, fellowship and service to our community,” he said.

Hand thanked the mayor as well as members of his congregation in attendance.

In other matters, City Administrator Thomas A. Palamar talked about the 2018 road program. He said as of Monday, 600 tons of blacktop have been used to repair potholes on 56 miles of city streets. He talked of streets that were milled, resurfaced, and patched.

City councilwoman Dorothy “Dottie” Botto praised the street crew for the work.

“It’s not just about the paving. Street department workers do a lot,” she said.

Rain affected how much work was completed.

“The weather really affected the line painting this year,” Superintendent of Streets Tom Whitaker said.

Palamar talked about steps the city will take next year when paving. The city will review data to develop priorities of what and where to pave, evaluate city and contracted efforts, create a state Department of Transportation approved paving program, complete contracted line painting, and mentioned work that will be completed on several streets due to UGI work in the area.

Palamar said the city is starting its budget process. The budget workshop meetings will be 4:15 p.m. Thursday and Nov. 26. The first reading in city council chambers is 4:15 p.m. Nov. 29.

City solicitor Thomas J. Pellish provided an update on pot-bellied pigs Tanker and Gracie Mae, who live in the city.

“There have been no issue whatsoever in the last six months,” Pellish said.

Health Officer Frank Spleen agreed.

“My recommendation now to council would be to grandfather in the current ones that have it, but we will have to enforce the ordinance for any future requests for pigs,” Pellish said.

The council accepted the recommendation without voting.

The council in May allowed a probationary period for Gracie Mae and Tanker to see how they interacted in their city environment. Chapter 87 of the Pottsville City Code, which was last updated in 1985, prohibits residents from having farm animals.

A.J. Alves, a city firefighter, owner of Tanker, was in the audience. “I’m happy with it,” he said.

Scott Horning, the owner of Gracie Mae was not in the audience but said by phone he is happy for his family and Gracie Mae.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

ORWIGSBURG — David C. Zalonka, whom prosecutors allege was under the influence of marijuana when he caused a fatal crash in January in West Brunswick Township, is headed to Schuylkill County Court after a judge determined recently that there was enough evidence to support the charges, including three homicide-related ones, against him.

Zalonka, 50, of 683 E. Second Mountain Road, Schuylkill Haven, is charged with homicide by vehicle while under the influence, aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, homicide by vehicle, aggravated assault by vehicle, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI, involuntary manslaughter, recklessly endangering another person, failure to stop at red signal and careless driving.

After a preliminary hearing, Magisterial District Judge James R. Ferrier determined that prosecutors had produced sufficient evidence to support all charges and ordered them held for court. He allowed Zalonka to remain free on $50,000 straight cash bail pending further court proceedings.

State police at Schuylkill Haven alleged that Zalonka was driving north on Route 61 when he ran a red light at 2:14 p.m. Jan. 5 at Route 61 and Municipal Road in West Brunswick Township. Zalonka’s vehicle, a blue 2002 Dodge Ram pickup truck, struck broadside a vehicle being driven west on Municipal Road by Rodney Brown, 59, of Blandon, Berks County, according to police.

Zalonka’s truck came to a stop facing west near the intersection, while Brown’s vehicle came to a stop north of the intersection facing southwest, police said.

Police said county Deputy Coroner Deb Detweiler pronounced Brown dead at 4:55 p.m., less than three hours after the accident, at a helicopter landing pad near Zion’s Red Church.

At the scene, Zalonka had red eyes and seemed overly tired, police said. When searched, Zalonka had a bag of marijuana, a cut straw and a small acrylic plate, police said.

Police said they took Zalonka to their station, where they determined he was under the influence of marijuana and arrested him.

Zalonka then refused to take a blood alcohol test, according to police.

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

Defendant: David C. Zalonka

Age: 50

Residence: Schuylill Haven

Charges:Homicide by vehicle while under the influence, aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, homicide by vehicle, aggravated assault by vehicle, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernlaia, DUI, involuntary manslaughter, recklessly endangering another person, failure to stop at red signal and careless driving

Student misidentified

A Trinity Academy student was misidentified in a photograph in Tuesday’s edition. GiGi Uholick was photographed praying in the Veterans Day service.

VALLEY VIEW — At the request of the Valley View Park Association, a bridge in Hegins Township will be renamed in honor of the late Donald Buffington.

The Hegins Township supervisors Nov. 7 unanimously approved renaming the Gap Street Bridge the Donald Buffington Memorial Bridge.

The president of the park association, David Williams, had brought the idea to the board last month.

The bridge, located near the park, is currently closed and under repair.

Buffington was a long-serving member of the Tri-Valley school board, Valley View Park Association, National Rifle Association, Valley View Gun Club and former Valley View Fire Company. He served many years as a funeral director, baseball coach and community volunteer. Buffington, 88, of Valley View, died in April.

In other business, Chairman Gary Harner called for an executive session to discuss a personnel matter involving the police department. No public decision was announced regarding to the police department upon the supervisors’ return.

In other action, the board approved:

• Police Chief Beau Yarmush’s report for October, showing 147 calls to service; 13 offense/incident reports; two misdemeanor arrests; a felony arrest; three reportable accidents; a nonreportable accident; 11 traffic citations; and four traffic warnings. Mileage on patrol vehicles was 1,917 miles.

•Treasurer Gary Hornberger’s report for October, reporting $66,854 income; $154,480 expenses; $215,775 general fund balance; $65,153 PLGIT fund balance; and $20,791 pool balance.

•Zoning officer Al Swab’s report, showing three zoning permits and two building permits for a total of $380. Swab asked if a shredder could be used to help rid the office of outdated paperwork. Solicitor Donald G. Karpowich said he could draft a resolution for next month’s meeting that would address the timely disposal of outdated materials.

•A final subdivision plan for the Robert L. Koppenhaver estate.

•A broker service agreement with McGriff Insurance Services for $927.

•Kinect Energy Group proposal for lighting account electric rates.

•Highway occupancy permit for paving marking proposal with D.E. Gemmill for $2,543.40.

•The Sacramento Community Fire Company Santa parade which begins at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 22 at the Dauphin/Schuylkill County line on Route 25 and travels through Sacramento, Valley View, Hegins and Fountain.

The board announced Christmas lights would be installed Nov. 24 throughout the township. The next food pantry is Nov. 21. The next board meeting 7 p.m. Dec. 5.

The board tabled action on an ordinance regulating fireworks.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

PINE GROVE — Here’s a clue for problem-solvers searching for an interactive form of entertainment in Schuylkill County: The answer could be as close as Pine Grove.

Friends Ken and Suzanne Dubbs and Mike and Angie Williams are scheduled to open a second escape room at their business, The Art of Escape LLC, at 61 S. Tulpehocken St.

Escape rooms are an adventure game where players solve puzzles and riddles using clues, hints and strategy to complete objectives within a one-hour time limit. The games are set in a variety of fictional locations, which usually follow a theme.

“People are talking about it and we’ve been listening to what they say. We’re hearing a lot of positive energy from the groups going through,” Ken Dubbs said.

He and his wife bought the building in December 2016.

“Road Trip U.S.A.” is the newest challenge, slated to open at the end of the month. It features a travel theme, but the owners are keeping details of the room a secret.

“This one’s a little more interactive and hands-on,” Mike Williams said.

The couples opened the first escape room, “The Reporter,” in July. It encourages players to help reporter “Red” Richter solve a mysterious case in a small town.

The couples tried to re-purpose items found at the site, the former Bartos Hardware store, and also included some historical references to Pine Grove. “Red” Bartos used to be the former hardware store operator, and Conrad Richter was the borough’s well-known author.

“We introduce them to the room and don’t tell them how many clues there are. We hand them the first clue, and tell them to read it to everyone. There are visual and written clues,” Angie Williams said.

For any group that gets stumped, the owners do offer three additional clues within the hour, if the group asks for assistance. There is nothing scary or physically challenging about the room; the activity is family-friendly and appropriate for all ages over 12. Businesses searching for team-building activities, Scouting groups and church organizations have all tried the escape room challenge, in addition to families and friends searching for an out-of-the-ordinary get-together.

The rooms are open 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, 1 to 10 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. The company is closed on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

Cost is $24 per person or $20 for an afternoon special. Extended hours and price specials around Black Friday and throughout Thanksgiving and Christmas may also be available, Suzanne Dubbs said.

Escape artists who have finished the room challenges can also browse the retail store, Made in PGA, at the site. It features local artists’ wares, wood carvings, paintings, ceramics, jewelry and baked goods. The Collective Arts League, a nonprofit, operates the store, and Heather Butler serves as executive director.

“We all love our community and there’s a lot of history here,” Ken Dubbs said.

For more information, visit the website, www.theartofescapepg.com, or call 570-640-9551.

Contact the writer: vterwilliger@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6007

SHEPPTON — The East Union Township supervisors moved through a light agenda Nov. 7.

Police Officer Matt Williams said that the police department will be handling quality of life complaints and violations since there is no code enforcement department.

If officers see a quality of life violation, they will leave a tag on the resident’s door regarding the violation and give them five to seven days to correct the problem, he said. This is not a citation, but an effort to have the problem resolved, Williams said. If the resident needs more time, he asked to be contacted and he will work with that resident, he said.

If a person does not correct the problem or ignores the door tag, a citation will be issued. A form to appeal the citation will also be included, Williams said. Quality of life citations generally cost $50 to $100, he said.

If the township must resolve an issue, the police department can file a nontraffic citation at the magisterial district judge’s office and seek restitution for any funds the township spent, Williams said.

Solicitor Joseph Baranko said that the township does have chapters that address animal control in its ordinances. The subject came up at the last meeting, he said. The township can appoint an animal control officer and there is a mechanism to deal with dogs and cats, Baranko said.

He also reported on the status of 939-941 Center St. in Sheppton. If the township took the property, it would be subject to existing taxes against it, and there is no guarantee that county funding would be available to raze the property, Baranko said. There is still a title problem as well, he said.

The township also did not get an updated estimate on repairing a Volvo backhoe at Highway Equipment, Baranko said. The supervisors approved the repairs which had been estimated at $2,600 last month. Work has not started on the backhoe, he said.

New treasurer Michael Gazick reported on changes that he had to make since taking the job in August in order to get accurate numbers in the Quickbooks accounting software program.

Some of the problems included more than $12,261 in undeposited funds, representing a dozen transactions up to five years ago; more than 40 checks and deposits that have not cleared so the balances in the checkbook did not match what was in the bank, and a check for $2.70 was recorded as $1,023.40, which was the check number, he said.

In the zoning fund, a deposit of three checks totalling $10,232.50 from February did not clear the bank, he said, and those funds were recovered with the individuals/companies re-issuing the checks.

Gazick provided the supervisors with a list of changes that he had to make.

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