POTTSVILLE — In recent Schuylkill County Court action, Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, the following people:

Edward J. Flaim, 25, of Barnesville; fleeing or eluding police, disorderly conduct, possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to yield to emergency vehicle, speeding and failure to obey traffic control devices; three years probation, $75 in fines, $100 payment to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $50 payment to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of marijuana, stop sign violation, careless driving, driving without lights to avoid identification, operating vehicle without valid inspection and improper turn signal.

Kevin M. Gazdziak, 28, of Wilkes-Barre; possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, driving under the influence, driving under suspension, driving unregistered vehicle and operating vehicle without valid inspection; 72 hours to six months in prison with immediate parole, 18 months consecutive probation, $1,250 in fines, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment, $182.50 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Harrisburg and 10 hours community service. Prosecutors withdrew three counts of possession of a controlled substance and one of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Terri L. Kates, 39, of New Philadelphia; theft of leased property; 24 months probation consecutive to current sentence, $50 CJEA payment and $1,473.22 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of receiving stolen property.

Justin M. Koons, 29, of Pottsville; endangering the welfare of children, criminal mischief and recklessly endangering another person; one to two years in a state correctional institution, 12 months consecutive probation, $100 in CJEA payments and $1,038.42 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew a second count of recklessly endangering another person and two counts of disorderly conduct.

Michael McShaw IV, 23, of Pottsville; two counts of possession of a small amount of marijuana and one of possession of drug paraphernalia; 30 days in prison, 12 months probation, $200 in SAEF payments and $100 in CJEA payments.

Heather L. Muthler, 37, of Lock Haven; possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possessing instrument of crime; presentence investigation ordered, sentencing scheduled for 11 a.m. Jan. 14, 2019. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of conspiracy and one each of possession of contraband and possession of a controlled substance.

Stephan Reidler, 30, of Frackville; possession of contraband; one to two years in a state correctional institution and $50 CJEA payment.

Henry Rivera, 28, of Frackville; possession of contraband; three to 24 months in a state correctional institution and $50 CJEA payment.

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

TREMONT — Recovery from this summer’s flooding for the Family Dollar store in the borough meant JoAnn Lilly’s grandson could pick her up some snacks.

T.J. Faust, of Colonial Park, attended the ribbon-cutting and grand reopening of the 14 Spring St. location Saturday.

“I ran in here for my grandma, who’s at the nursing home. I wanted to get her some treats, like tea and Twizzlers,” Faust said, noting his grandmother was in the nearby Tremont Health and Rehabilitation Center.

It was that sense of neighborhood convenience that brought many customers back to the store, which had been closed for several months.

“It’s been a long process,” Kris Shaud, Tremont store manager, said. “We pretty much started from scratch.”

Jerry Rea, Family Dollar district manager for Central Pennsylvania, assisted Shaud during the ribbon-cutting.

“We thank everyone for coming out for the grand reopening ... and know everyone’s happy to have us back again,” Shaud said.

He and Shaud referred additional media inquiries about the company to the corporate public relations department. However, no one was available Saturday for comment.

“We had a lot of our customers shopping at the Minersville or Hegins stores and they’ve been asking when we were going to reopen. We’ve had a lot of positive feedback from our customers,” Shaud said, adding there was a soft opening Nov. 1. The store has six employees, including full- and part-time staff.

Tiffani and Shawn Kreiser, of Tremont, were shopping Saturday with their daughter, Destiny, 5.

“We run down here for things we need because it’s quick, instead of having to run to Pine Grove or Pottsville. They’re friendly here and the prices are good,” Tiffani said.

Destiny won a drink bottle as one of the grand-opening prizes.

Mandeep Kaur, of Pottsville, and Carole Smink, of Harrisburg, from the marketing agency RSM, greeted customers who were visiting and helped run the prize wheel.

“We have our everyday customers that are coming in, but I’ve also been seeing a lot of new people,” Shaud said.

Customer specials were offered beginning Thursday.

The first 50 customers on Thursday, Friday and Saturday received something special each day: a Family Dollar reusable shopping bag; a bag of soft chocolate chip cookies; and a $5 gift card, respectively.

The store gave away a $25, $50 and $100 gift card at Saturday’s celebration. Customers could also sign up to win themed gift baskets — a baby basket, movie night basket, automotive and laundry gift baskets. A table was set up where children could participate in a coloring contest. The top three artists were eligible to win a $5 gift card.

Saturday’s event included an emergency vehicle display from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the store parking lot. Tom Schwarz, Tremont Fire Company president and safety officer; Justin Moeller, fire company assistant chief; and Shannon Tietsworth, an officer with the Tremont police department, greeted shoppers and answered public safety questions.

Schwarz and Moeller said they offered children a coloring book and provided families a lesson on holiday fire prevention, talking about the carbon monoxide threat, Christmas tree watering, use of portable heaters and proper evacuation plans.

Schwarz said he knew residents appreciated seeing the store open for business once again.

“They want to be a part of the community. You have a lot of elderly here who walk, so it’s convenient for them,” Schwarz said.

Volunteers are always needed, including people who can assist with fundraisers and clerical duties, not just those answering emergency calls, they said. Flood recovery efforts brought the community together and neighboring emergency crews also came to Tremont’s aide, according to Schwarz.

“You can see the debris still on the wall,” he said, pointing across Spring Street. “For some people, they had to deal with three floods within two weeks.”

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

POTTSVILLE — A Pennsylvania Game Commission officer was injured Saturday when he was attacked by two people riding ATVs that he stopped in Norwegian Township.

The incident occurred in the area of Peach Mountain Road around 10 a.m., according to Dustin Stoner, a game warden supervisor and information and education supervisor with the Southeast Regional Office in Reading.

Stoner said the warden, who he did not identify, was working in a law enforcement capacity investigating individuals riding ATVs in an area prohibited from doing so at the Grande Hunter Access Property.

After assaulting the warden, Stoner said, the ATV riders fled the area toward Arnot’s Addition in Saint Clair, leaving the warden at the scene.

The warden was taken to a Pottsville hospital where he was treated for his injuries and released, Stoner said.

Stoner said Game Commission officials are working with state police troopers from the Schuylkill Haven and Frackville stations as well as officers from several local police departments.

Trooper Matthew Tonitis of the Schuylkill Haven station, the investigating officer, explained what led to the assault.

Tonitis said that around 9:20 a.m., the Game Commission received a complaint regarding a hunting violation. Around 10 a.m., the Game Commission officer arrived at the scene to investigate.

The officer, 58, saw two men on ATVs, approached them and started to question the two. A physical altercation began between the officer and the ATV riders, during which the officer discharged one round from his duty weapon, Tonitis said.

One of the men was described as being white, between 5 feet 7 inches and 5 feet 9 inches tall, between 50 and 60 years old with an average build. He had long gray hair and a long gray goatee secured with rubber bands.

The second man was also between 5 feet 7 inches and 5 feet 9 inches tall, between 50 and 60 years old with an average build and gray facial hair.

The second man was wearing a white ATV helmet during the altercation and Tonitis said the two were not dressed in hunting attire but dressed in ATV clothing.

Anyone with information on the identity or whereabouts of the ATV riders is asked to call state police at 570-754-4600.

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

POTTSVILLE — A Girardville man charged with pointing a gun at a woman and threatening to kill her Sept. 14 is among those scheduled to enter not guilty pleas during arraignments Thursday in Schuylkill County Court.

Michael P. Twigg, 55, of 390 W. Main St., was arrested by state police Trooper Andrew Letcavage of the Frackville station and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, terroristic threats, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and harassment.

Letcavage said Twigg became involved with his fiance — Maribel Carabello-Troche — over pills but the argument escalated with Twigg obtained a gun, pointed at the woman’s mouth and threatened to shoot her.

Twigg then hit the woman in the right eye with the front of the gun, Letcavage said.

Others scheduled to appear for arraignment are:

Amanda J. Martin, 25, of 642 Mauch Chunk St., Pottsville — criminal trespass, contraband, possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jose L. Rivera, 48, of 98 S. Poplar St., Hazleton — bad checks.

Thomas E. Zimmerman, 35, of 20 Natale Court, Pine Grove — possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving a vehicle without an official Certificate of Inspection, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked and duty of driver on approach of emergency vehicle.

Donald C. Howley, 51, of 630 S. Hoffman Blvd., Ashland — disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, harassment and public drunkenness.

John H. Singley, 39, of 40 Seven Stars Road, Pottsville — retail theft, criminal trespass, terroristic threats and harassment.

Jesse J. Levan, 19, of 21 Schneck Drive, Pine Grove — DUI, DUI-minor, purchase of alcohol by a minor and careless driving.

Victoria DeMarco, 20, of 421 Moyer Station Road, Schuylkill Haven — driving under the influence of drugs, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance and obedience to traffic control signals.

Kenneth J. Childs, 25, of 1119 W. Market St., Pottsville — criminal mischief, DUI and reckless driving.

Gina M. Watcher, 34, of 113 N. Fourth St., Minersville — DUI, not driving on roadways laned for traffic and careless driving.

Matthew L. Stone, 43, of 146 Coal St., Cumbola — DUI, DUI-highest rate, not driving on roadways laned for traffic, reckless driving, careless driving and restrictions on alcoholic beverages.

Paul A. Felty, 51, of 128 Spring St., Tremont — driving under the influence of drugs, careless driving, driving an unregistered vehicle, driving a vehicle without an official Certificate of Inspection and driving without insurance.

William J. Fadule, 43, of 220 W. Coal St., Shenandoah — driving under the influence of drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, not driving on roadways laned for traffic, driving an unregistered vehicle and drivers required to be licensed.

Dennis M. Kuhar, 38, of 44 Saint John St., Schuylkill Haven — driving under the influence of drugs, driving under combined influence, accidents involving damage to unattended vehicles or property, not driving on roadways laned for traffic and careless driving.

Elizabeth J. O’Hanlon, 43, of 112 Parkway Ave., Schuylkill Haven ­— DUI, DUI-highest rate and careless driving.

Martin J. Reese, 67, of 90 N. Centre St., Ringtown — DUI-highest rate.

Jeremiah L. Ney, 22, of 49 Chelton St., Shenandoah — driving under the influence of drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, not driving on roadways laned for traffic, driving at an unsafe speed and careless driving.

John M. Hollenbach, 59, of 275 W. Second Mountain Road, Pottsville — DUI, DUI-highest rate, careless driving and not driving on roadways laned for traffic.

Matthew D. Jarrett, 33, of 138 E. Market St., Mahanoy City — DUI, DUI-high rate and exceeding the speed limit by 24 mph.

Thomas P. Chernewski, 57, of 307 W. Centre St., Shenandoah — driving under the influence of drugs and turning movements and required signals.

Ryan D. Cromer, 27, of 540 W. Centre St., Tremont — driving under the influence of drugs, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving an unregistered vehicle, driving a vehicle without an official Certificate of Inspection and careless driving.

Edward A. Koropchak, 40, of 360 Prospect St., Pottsville — DUI, DUI-highest rate, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, careless driving and standing, stopping or parking outside a residential or business district.

Tina M. Withelder, 51, of 325 Cherry St., Saint Clair — driving under the influence of drugs.

Nancy L. Deitzler, 56, of 144 Chestnut St., Cressona — DUI, DUI-high rate, not driving on roadways laned for traffic, driving an unregistered vehicle and careless driving.

Douglas Moyer, 54, of 120 1/2 Parkway Ave., Apt. 2, Schuylkill Haven — driving under the influence of drugs, driving wile operating privileges are suspended or revoked and driving a vehicle without an official Certificate of Inspection.

Thomas L. Langtry, 31, of 113 E. Main St., Apt. 1R, Schuylkill Haven — driving under the influence of drugs, possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Amanda N. Hengen, 27, of 310 Coal St., Port Carbon — driving under the influence of drugs, driving under combined influence, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and general lighting requirements.

William H. Miller, 28, of 1755 West End Ave., Pottsville — DUI, careless driving and stop and yield sign violations.

Luis J. Suazo-Cabrera, 26, of 501 N. Railroad St., Apt. 4, Tamaqua — DUI, DUI-highest rate, not driving on roadways laned for traffic, driving at an unsafe speed, reckless driving, careless driving and driving an unregistered vehicle.

Heather L. Horbach, 41, of 116 E. Main St., Second Floor, Girardville — DUI, DUI-highest rate and general lighting requirements.

Edward Bassininsky Jr., 48, of 81 Phoenix Park Road, Pottsville — retail theft.

Paul D. Hillibush, 44, of 131 S. Wylam St., Frackville — DUI.

Zakiya I. Jordan, 24, of 420 W. Coal St., Shenandoah — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Faylynne Harrison, 34, of 312 Hazle St., Tamaqua — identity theft, theft by deception, receiving stolen property, forgery and access device fraud.

Judith A. Essler, 52, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Robert L. Rockwell, 48, of Box 336, Lavelle — bad checks.

Joleen M. Price, 22, of 404 S. Broad Mountain Ave., Frackville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Laura J. Paulukonis, 33, of 403 A St., Girardville — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Patty Valeno, 34, of 716 W. Pine St., Ashland — possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving an unregistered vehicle, driving without insurance, driving a vehicle without an official Certificate of Inspection and violations of use of Certificate of Inspection.

John E. Terek, 55, of State Correctional Institution/Mahanoy, Frackville — weapons or implements for escape and prohibited offensive weapons.

Noel A. Bautista, 23, of SCI Mahanoy, Frackville — weapons or implements for escape and prohibited offensive weapons.

Jamil Harris, 29, of SCI/Mahanoy, Frackville — contraband-controlled substances, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Dennis D. Miller, 41, of 318 W. Chester St., Shenandoah — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Brendon J. Hasara, 46, of 739 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City — theft, receiving stolen property and simple trespasser.

Etienne Barksdale, 34, of 821 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City — possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Christina M. Startzel, 33, of 821 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City — possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Norman E. Cromas, 62, of SCI/Mahanoy, Frackville —simple assault and harassment.

Ronald R. Hartz, 55, of 5 E. Market St., Sheppton — terroristic threats.

Phillip N. Pittman, 29, of SCI Mahanoy, Frackville — simple assault and harassment.

Thomas J. Christensen, 21, of 37 W. Pine St., Sheppton — fleeing or attempting to elude police, recklessly endangering another person, resisting arrest, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, reckless driving, careless driving, driving at an unsafe speed and unauthorized use or transfer or registration.

Shannon Welch, 29, of 54 5th St., Coaldale — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Salvadore V. Craig, 44, of 8 Fourth St., Kelayres — delivery of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communications facility, driving a vehicle without an official Certificate of Inspection, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Rebekah L. Deetz, 44, of 437 E. Elm St., Tamaqua —retail theft.

Heather M. Weingard, 27, of 16 N. Lehigh St., Shenandoah — habitual offender and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Marissa A. Garcia, 25, of 721 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City — burglary, criminal trespass, theft and receiving stolen property.

Douglas C. Starkey, 62, of 505 N. Centre St., Apt. 2, Pottsville — possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving an unregistered vehicle, driving a vehicle without an official Certificate of Inspection and classes of licenses.

Raymond B. Miller Jr., 49, of 826 E. Pine St., Mahanoy City — theft.

Michael Chiatti, 44, of 216 E. Pine St., Mahanoy City —possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Hector L. Lopez, 47, of 307 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City — aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, simple assault, harassment, possession of drug paraphernalia and recklessly endangering another person.

Edwin Astor, 52, of 411 W. Market St., Mahanoy City — possessing instruments of crime and loitering and prowling at night.

Tyler J. Nornhold, 21, of 230 Sanderson St., Pottsville — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Heriberto R. Fuetes, 42, of 120 E. Pine St., Mahanoy City — theft.

Damien A. Rudy, 24, of 520 W. Grand Ave., Tower City — simple assault and harassment.

Douglas R. Downey, 48, of 110 Jackson St., Port Carbon — possession of a small amount of marijuana.

Timothy Kreiser, 29, of 16 W. Pottsville St., Pine Grove — simple assault, terroristic threats and harassment.

Alyssa M. Essler, 27, of 311 Laurel St., Minersville — criminal trespass.

Tyler Nornhold, 21, of 230 Sanderson St., Pottsville — theft, loitering and prowling at night and defiant trespass.

Austin Hall, 21, of 54 Carbon St., Pine Grove — criminal mischief.

Vencient W. Royal, 55, of 210 Pine St., Tamaqua — criminal mischief, unauthorized use of automobiles, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked and classes of licenses.

Lester W. Deitrich, 47, of 172 Spruce St., Tamaqua — receiving stolen property and theft.

Anthony J. Stalgaitis, 36, of 316 N. Elizabeth St., Tamaqua — possession of a controlled substance.

Ryan Durland, 20, of 337 W. Blaine St., McAdoo — burglary, forgery, criminal trespass, theft and receiving stolen property.

Robert Fredericks, 36, of 300 1/2 W. Spruce St., Tamaqua — theft of secondary metal, criminal mischief and receiving stolen property.

Thomas Weikel, 42, of 410 E. Market St., First Floor, Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Hayley E. Covine, 20, of 447 Arlington St., Tamaqua — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, criminal use of a communications facility and possession of a controlled substance.

Michael A. Ciccozzi II, 22, of 20 Fourth St., Kelayres — strangulation, simple assault and harassment.

Tyler A. Cimino, 23, of 32 Ben Titus Road, Tamaqua — sunscreening and other materials prohibited, obedience to traffic control signals, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Randall M. Yorkonis, 41, of 322 Washington St., Pottsville, and 506 Tunnel Road, Pottsville — theft and receiving stolen property, altered, forged or counterfeit documents and plates, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Trend M. Kopinetz, 23, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — conspiracy, robbery, simple assault, theft, receiving stolen property and harassment.

Daniel L. Lopez, 22, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — conspiracy.

Cory M. Ratliff, 41, of 433 Harrison St., Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Ashley L. Karpovich, 30, of 140 Parsonage St., Minersville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Rebecca A. Hughes, 29, of 428 E. Norwegian St., Apt. A, Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia and public drunkenness.

Breanne Newton, 35, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sacarnul L. Harris, 49, of 515 Pine St., Minersville —delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance.

Joshua M. Keller, 28, of 131 Pike St., Apt. 3, Port Carbon — obstructing the administration of law, theft and receiving stolen property.

Eric R. Shappell, 33, of 515 W. Norwegian St., Pottsville —retail theft and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Josef A. Hunt, 19, of 720 Mine St., Pottsville — resisting arrest and loitering and prowling at night.

Crystal Fesig-Mathew, 35, of 165 Willow St., Cressona — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Barron J. Belsak, 46, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — aggravated assault on police, criminal mischief, receiving stolen property, possessing instruments of crime, recklessly endangering another person, institutional vandalism and fleeing or attempting to elude police.

Rhett W. Potter Jr., 34, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — possession of a controlled substance.

Toni M. Chia, 34, 78 Wiggan St., New Philadelphia —receiving stolen property.

Mark A. Shellhammer, 34, of 78 Wiggan St., New Philadelphia — receiving stolen property.

Paul N. Noon Jr., 28, of 468 Sunbury St., Apt. B, Minersville — unlawful contact or communications with a minor, open lewdness and harassment.

Hartaj Singh, 19, of 708 Centerfield Drive, Pottsville —retail theft.

Jeremy C. Noll, 40, of 1543 W. Norwegian St., Pottsville —simple assault and harassment.

Leianni S. Crawford, 31, of 104 Schuylkill Ave., Tamaqua — theft, criminal mischief and simple trespass.

Carissa N. Delpais, 30, of 147 Kiehner St., Schuylkill Haven — retail theft.

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

Without a doubt winter stargazing can be challenging, but if you bundle up and keep your feet and face warm, the rewards are heavenly.

Believe it or not, in the early evening Pottsville western sky you can still see the “Summer Triangle” of stars, Vega, Altair and Deneb, which are the brightest stars in their respective summer constellations.

Deneb, a star that’s at least 1,500 light-years away, if not further, is the brightest star in the constellation Cygnus the Swan, otherwise known by its nickname the Northern Cross. During the holiday season, the cross is standing nearly upright above the northwestern horizon. This is the last call for the Northern Cross and the Summer Triangle, because next month the evening view from Earth will turn away from that part of space.

The great horse Pegasus is riding high in the south-southwestern sky with Cassiopeia the Queen, the one that looks like a bright “W” in the high northern sky. The Big Dipper is still very low in the north, but you’ll notice that from night to night it will gradually get higher, standing diagonally on its handle. The Little Dipper is hanging by its handle above the Big Dipper, with Polaris the North Star poised at the end of the handle. Because Polaris is shining directly above Earth’s North Pole, it appears as if all the stars in the sky revolve around Polaris once every 24 hours, including our sun. We’re seeing a reflection in the sky of the Earth’s rotation.

Gazing to the east, just after evening twilight ends, you’ll be bombarded with all kinds of bright stars and constellations, even more as you get later in the evening. You are witnessing the rising of the winter constellations, the best of the year, in my opinion.

The constellations Auriga the Chariot Driver and Taurus the Bull lead the charge. Just above Taurus is the best star cluster in the sky, known both as the Pleiades and the Seven Little Sisters. This is a young group of stars, 410 light-years away, that looks like a tiny Big Dipper. After 8 p.m., Orion the Hunter, the great centerpiece of the winter constellations, climbs well above the eastern horizon. The three stars equally spaced out in a row that make the belt of the great hunter will definitely jump out at you.

If you’re a planet-watching fan, the only planet I can offer you in the evening skies is Mars. It’s not as bright and close as it was this past summer, but it’s still fairly bright. As early evening sets in, Mars is the brightest star-like object you can see in the southern sky, directly above the southern horizon. It has a very distinctive reddish glow. You can’t miss it. Around Aug. 1, Mars was less than 36 million miles away, the closest it’s been since 2003. Currently, it’s almost 60 million miles farther away. Honestly, unless you have a very high power backyard telescope you won’t see much detail. It’s just getting too far away.

While you’re gazing at Mars in the southern skies, there’s another bright star that actually is a star a little below Mars just above the horizon. That’s Fomalhaut in the very faint and unremarkable constellation Piscis Austrinus, the southern fish. It’s a star with a developing solar system 25 light-years away. I like Fomalhaut for a couple of reasons. First off, it’s the only bright star in that part of the sky, but I really like that star because of the pronunciation of its name. It’s pronounced “Foam-a-lot”.

On the night of Dec. 13-14, the Geminid meteor shower peaks. On that night, there will be a last quarter (half) moon that will white out at least some of the meteors, but the Geminids are so bright and numerous that it should still be a half way decent shooting star show. I’ll have more on the Geminids next week in Skywatch.

Bundle up and take in the great December night sky! It’s worth the chill!

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

PINE GROVE — Sometimes, children are just a number at Pine Grove Area Elementary School.

The numbers help elementary guidance counselor Michelle Brand keep requests for the school’s Giving Tree project confidential and ensure those children are not forgotten during the holidays.

In its 15th year, the school is sponsoring the Giving Tree project to spread goodwill and to guarantee that families in need have gifts for their children. This year, there are 88 children and 43 families that have made gift requests. The first year, there were 15.

“I had parents crying to me over the phone, saying they didn’t know what they were going to do for Christmas,” Brand said, recalling how the effort got its start.

The Giving Tree is actually a bulletin board in the lobby, which has tags attached indicating an item requested. The tag includes a child’s age, gender, shoe and clothing size, and requests for two toys valued under $25. Brand assigns each student a number. Families who may need assistance fill out the form with their child’s information and return it to Brand.

“We’re not just helping our students, but those elementary age and younger in the family,” Principal Sandra Burns said. “We have businesses that come in anonymously to donate, and our community has been so generous. That is what makes this such a success.”

Brand’s family helps ready the tree tags, she said, including her father, Eric, sister, Angela, and nephew, Brody Brand.

The tree went up Nov. 21 and people who wish to contribute a gift can take a tag and return the wrapped item with the tag to the elementary office by Dec. 11. Students wanting to donate a gift do not take the tags off the tree, but rather their parents or guardians can do so during regular school hours or have the tag sent home, Burn said.

One family that was a Giving Tree gift recipient in prior years has now been able to give back to the project, the principal said.

“They’re so appreciative,” Burns said.

Brand will keep the wrapped packages in her room until they’re distributed to families from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 18 in the elementary office. Families scheduled to receive gifts will receive a ticket to ease pick-up.

“Giving back feels so nice,” Brand said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The eight-day “Festival of Lights” that is the Jewish celebration of Chanukah will take to the highways this weekend with a local rabbi organizing the trip.

Rabbi Nachman Nachmenson, of Pottsville, has organized a fleet of 120 vehicles that will travel today from New York City to Washington, D.C.

On Sunday evening, Chanukah (Hanukkah) begins with the lighting of the first candle of the chanukiah (a candelabra with nine candles similar to a menorah that has seven candles), using a “servant” candle in the center called the “shammus.” The first candle on the far right is lighted with the shammus, and each evening an additional candle is lighted during the eight days from right to left.

Chanukah begins at sunset tonight, which is when the Jewish day begins, and ends Dec. 10 at sunset.

Since Nachmenson will be on the road for the start of Chanukah, he received permission from the city to place a chanukiah in Garfield Square as of Tuesday for the Jewish holiday.

Each vehicle in the caravan to Washington will have a lighted chanukiah on the roof for all to see.

“The 120 cars will be at Exit 29B on Interstate 78 for me to meet up with them,” Nachmenson said. The exit is near Hamburg.

“I will wait for them next to the highway on Dec. 2, approximately between 11 a.m. and 12 (noon),” he said. “It’s complicated for them. They’ll leave Brooklyn and drive to 29B, which takes about two hours along I-78 west. We’ll then go to I-81 south to Harrisburg, then take I-83 south to York into Maryland, and we’ll go to Wisconsin Avenue in Washington.”

The destination is Beit Hatalmud D.C. at 2201 Wisconsin Ave., which is a Jewish library open to all for research. Nachmenson is the director.

“With God’s help, we’ll start the parade at 4 p.m. from Wisconsin Avenue toward the White House,” he said. “We’ll make a circle around the White House, and we’ll continue, with God’s help, we’ll continue to the Pentagon and then back to Beit Hatalmud.”

Nachmenson said the Washington police have been contacted and are aware of the procession of cars, and he was informed of the traffic rules.

“With God’s help, we hope there will be lots of happiness and light from New York to Pennsylvania to Washington and for all the world, a light to all the nations,” Nachmenson said.

Chanukah is celebrated between the end of November and the end of December, with the eight days changing each year. It begins on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev.

The Chanukah story began more than two millennia ago when the land of Judea was under the rule of the Syrian kings. For a time, the Judeans lived alongside people of other cultures and religions in peace. That situation changed when Antiochus IV became king and ordered everyone to give up their religion, customs and beliefs, and worship the Greek gods. Some obeyed the order, but after a time, one Jewish man named Mattathias sparked a revolt.

Mattathias stood up in the marketplace in one large city and said, “Whoever is for our struggle for religious freedom, come with me,” prompting the Jewish people to head for the mountains and hide in caves.

The person who became the leader of the revolt was Mattathias’ son, Judah, who was known as the “Maccabee,” which means “hammer.” Judah Maccabee, along with his four brothers, formed an army to fight the Syrians, eventually taking control of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

After retaking the Temple, it needed to be cleaned and rededicated to God before it could be used again as a house of worship, which would mean the lighting of the “Eternal Light.”

To rededicate the Temple, a lamp would need to burn for eight days. However, there was only enough olive oil for the lamp to burn for one day. It was decided to light the lamp despite the lack of oil. A miracle occurred when the one-day supply of oil lasted eight days.

In order to remember the miracle, the Jewish people mark the celebration of Chanukah, which means “dedication,” with the lighting of the chanukiah.

For more information about the caravan, Nachmenson can be reached at 202-823-6969 or hatalmuddc@gmail.com.

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

FRACKVILLE — Schuylkill County Crime Stoppers and state police at Frackville are asking for the public’s help in finding those responsible for two separate burglaries that happened last month,

The first crime happened between 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at 20 E. Preston Ave., Girardville.

Police said a woman reported someone entered her home while it was unoccupied and stole a flat-screen television and wall mount assembly from the living room area.

The items, police said, are valued at $580.

The second crime happened between Nov. 5 and 9 at a Boy Scout camp at 78 Indian Run Road in East Brunswick Township.

Police said someone damaged a lock to enter a secured storage shed and then stole about $100 in paper supplies and $100 in miscellaneous cooking spices.

Schuylkill County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 for information on those responsible for either of these burglaries and thefts or on any unsolved crime in Schuylkill County.

Callers are asked to refer to case 12-02-18 when calling with information about the burglaries in Girardville or East Brunswick 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 at Frackville by calling 570-874-5300.

All information received will remain confidential.

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

POTTSVILLE — Ornaments featuring the historic Yuengling Mansion and those paying tribute to anthracite mining’s 250th anniversary were among the newest finds Saturday at the 10th annual Christkindlmarkt.

The German Christmas market, coordinated by the Schuylkill County Council for the Arts, continues from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. today at the mansion and carriage house, 1440 Mahantongo St., Pottsville. Admission is free, but donations to SCCA are accepted.

Vendor artist Dorian Cola sold out of her Yuengling Mansion-inspired glass ornaments Saturday, but will have more available today. Cola, of Sinking Spring, said she likes to design a new ornament annually. This year’s top-seller featured a cut-out section of a glass ball ornament and miniature mansion display in a winter scene. She also re-purposes items, placing them together with vintage tea pots, trays and jewelry.

Quilter Becki White provided a new felt ornament, inspired by anthracite heritage. It’s a coal mining safety lamp, complete with flame. Her husband, author Stephen Pytak, encouraged her to create it, she said. The couple shared vending space at the mansion Saturday, with Pytak conducting a book signing for his five novels. A coal mining safety lamp belonging to Pytak’s grandfather, Alex Mallick, when he worked at the former Packer No. 5 mine in Girardville was on display with White’s ornaments. She also offered business card holders, wrist warmers, quilts and coin purses. White, of Port Carbon, is the reference librarian at the Pottsville Free Public Library.

Artist Laird Morgan, one of the Christkindlmarkt event co-founders, created plates, wine stoppers and wreaths made with fused glass this year. He also was selling stained glass and blown glass artwork and ornaments.

“I’m teaching classes on fusing, stained glass and mosaics,” Morgan, who operates Art on Derry, Hershey, said. He said the fused glass pieces are made using a special kiln.

Meanwhile, Kim Schappell’s offering of all-natural, handmade artisan soaps came in two new varieties — sugared plum and gingerbread oatmeal. Schappell, of Bird On A Wire Soaps, said her holiday classics, such as peppermint, orange and clove, and frankincense and myrrh, are still popular.

“We have a lot of the same customers that come back each year,” Schappell, of Frackville, said.

Customer Jayne Platts, of Pottsville, said she likes to browse at the event.

“Usually, I just buy something and stock up on things that I might put in gift baskets,” she said.

Debbie Cody and her daughter, Samantha M. Chivinski, both of Pottsville, say a visit to the Christkindlmarkt has become one of their seasonal traditions.

“We like to support the community. We like the artists and find a lot of unique items. I enjoy the decorations,” Cody, operator of Studio 16 Salon, said.

“She started getting me an ornament every year,” her daughter added. This year, the two stopped at Cola’s display for one-of-a-kind, re-purposed art pieces.

Teresa C. Hauck, of Sweet Barista, New Philadelphia, served up a variety of candies and baked goods. She said she tries to add something new each year for her customers at the event; cake balls were sold for the first time.

“In Schuylkill County, the peanut rolls are the staple though,” she said of her customers’ favorites. Sweet Barista, an event vendor for the past seven years, offered beer bread made with Yuengling lager, Bailey’s Irish Creme fudge, chocolate-covered pretzels, jellies and scones.

“Most people coming to see me are looking for seasonal items,” Kathy Connelly, a Pottsville watercolor artist and vendor coordinator, said.

She said her sea glass artwork and collage pieces using her handmade watercolor paper that’s framed in shadow boxes are among her best sellers.

Ray Murhon, of Pottsville, has volunteered at the SCCA for the past five years, serving as a greeter for the event.

“I love it here. I love the mansion. It’s all about tradition,” Murhon said. His wife, Chris, also welcomed visitors Saturday.

Previously, Murhon had worked as the former assistant gardener at the mansion with Raymond “Ruby” Hahner.

While guests took in the holiday decor, they may not have noticed the two distinct halves of the mansion as they entered. Murhon explained, to the left, was what was called the “feminine” side of the mansion, designed with lighter-colored walls and woodwork, while to the right was the “masculine” side with its darker hues.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

Clearing out his late mother-in-law’s home in Wilkes-Barre, George Brown stumbled upon World War I history.

In a shoebox inside the Barney Street home, Brown found a diary his wife’s grandfather, Clarence L. Miller Sr., carried with him in France during World War I.

“Can you envision this? This guy is sitting in his bunker getting shelled at, writing this, not knowing if anyone is ever going to read this,” Brown said.

This year marked 100 years since the end of World War I when the Allied Powers signed an armistice on the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” of 1918.

Armistice Day has been celebrated annually around the world on Nov. 11 for much of the last century. Following World War II and the Korean War, Nov. 11 was renamed Veterans Day in the United States.

Miller, then a bookkeeper who lived on South Welles Street in Wilkes-Barre, was drafted into the Army in July 1917.

Most of Miller’s diary documents his training stops and then each time he arrived in a new town in France.

But that changed on Oct. 8, 1918, when his unit engaged Germans near the town of Chatel Chéhéry.

“Went up into the lines Oct. 8. Rested the night before on the side of a hill. In the morning, quite heavy shelling. No doubt Jerry knew we were there,” Miller wrote.

Jerry was a nickname American troops used for Germans. So was Fritz.

Miller later wrote about a near-death experience during another German shelling.

“It was at this place that I had my closest call. A shell landed directly outside of the hole where our phone was stationed. The heat of this I felt right through the ground and Craig and myself were covered with dirt. Shortly after this, our line of communications went out,” Miller wrote.

Miller wrote about how he was tasked to go out in the battlefield and repair the communication lines.

Several days later, his unit entered the town of Saint Juvin.

“Things were a little quiet before this but as soon as the boys had climbed onto the hill, the Germans immediately thrown over a barrage, but our boys moved on. From my relay station, through a spyglass, I could see things very clear. It was not long before I could see German prisoners walking down the road, many of them carrying our wounded on stretchers. My, what a sight,” Miller wrote.

On Nov. 11, 1918, the day the war ended, Miller wrote he was going on a seven-day leave.

Brown said he could “sit for hours and read his diary about what he went through.”

Other mementos found in the shoe box were Miller’s pay log — he earned $36.60 per month — and a letter from a French woman he met during the war.

Miller and the woman became friends and pen pals. She called him, “My dear little American soldier.”

“France appreciates everything you boys have done in helping save her country from complete ruin by a foe that knew absolutely no limit,” she wrote. “I trust such a thing will not occur again.”

World War I was billed as “the war to end all wars.”

But Europe and France would again be ravaged during World War II.

Miller died in March 1978 at 82 in Claymont, Delaware.

Miller’s son, Clarence Jr., and his wife, Elizabeth, lived on Lockhart Street in Wilkes-Barre for many years before moving to Barney Street. Clarence died in 2014, while Elizabeth died in December 2016.

Their daughter, Maryanne, and Brown married 45 years ago.

While cleaning out his mother-in-law’s home, Brown found the shoe box containing Miller’s war mementos.

“As I looked through Clarence’s diary, I tried to understand what went through his mind and how he enlisted to fight in what was supposed to be ‘the war that would end all wars.’ Then, I reflected on how ironic it was that less than 30 years later my father joined the Marines to fight in the Pacific Campaign during World War II,” Brown said. “All I could think about was how these men were the ‘Greatest Generation’ and how thankful we should be to all veterans who have served and are currently serving our country.”

Contact the writer: bkalinowski@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2055

PINE GROVE — The pastor of St. Peter’s United Church of Christ said he is “saddened” more people didn’t show up for a discussion on sexual and domestic violence Sunday.

“This is not a topic people are comfortable with,” Pastor Jason Stump said.

Less than 10 people attended the event that came about after Stump watched the testimony of now Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh and Dr. Christine Blasey Ford earlier this year.

Called “When Sorrow Floods”: A Liturgy in Protest of Sexual Violence, Stump talked about how people should speak up when injustice happens.

“I’ve seen women abused and get mistreated, and I didn’t do anything,” Stump said.

Tori Schroding, community education specialist with Schuylkill Women In Crisis, shared what services SWIC provides and how they aim to help. She also talked about what someone can experience when they are abused and the many forms it can take, such as physical, mental, sexual and economic.

“We don’t just help women,” Schroding said.

More people need to be informed about forms of abuse and how they can help, she said.

“It’s a community problem that needs a community solution,” Schroding said.

People don’t enter a relationship with the intention of being abused, Schroding said.

“Every relationship is different,” she said.

People sometimes ask why the person being abused doesn’t leave.

“On average, it takes between five and seven times to successfully leave a violent relationship,” Schroding said.

The abuser is all about power and control, and when the victim tries to leave, the abuser can become more violent.

“When a victim’s ready to leave, that relationship is the most deadly time for them,” Schroding said.

Schroding said people can help by being supportive of the person being abused.

“The worse thing you can to say to them is just leave,” she said.

Stump said it would be ideal if abuse were not occurring, but that is not the case.

“God does not wave a magic wand to end abuse,” he said.

Talking about what happened to someone can help them heal, Schroding said.

“It’s hard to reach out. It’s hard to tell your story. It only gets easier if you talk about your story,” she said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

The state Department of Transportation announced several roadwork projects in Schuylkill County this week and beyond.

The planned projects include:

• Bridge inspection on Interstate 81 at Exit 116 (Route 901) in Foster Township between Exit 112 (Route 25) and Exit 119 (Highridge Park Road) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 17, with northbound lane restriction from 9 a.m. to noon and southbound restrictions from noon to 3 p.m.

• Bridge inspection on Route 309 in Rush Township between Route 54 and Fairview Street/Ben Titus Road from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 28, with lane restrictions.

• Crack sealing on Route 61 North in West Brunswick Township between Port Clinton and Deer Lake from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. today through Friday, with lane restrictions northbound.

• Drainage work on Brockton Mountain Drive in Schuylkill Township between Brockton and Ryan Township from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. today through Friday, with lane restrictions and flagging.

• Pothole patching on Route 54 in Butler, West Mahanoy and Mahanoy townships between Girardville and Mahanoy City from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. today through Friday, with lane restrictions and flagging.

• Crack sealing on Route 61 in Butler Township between Frackville and Ashland from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. today through Friday, with lane restrictions and flagging.

• Pothole patching on Ball Field Road in West Mahanoy Township between Route 54 and Raven Run Road from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. today through Friday, with lane restrictions and flagging.

• Shoulder work/widening on Mountain Road between Helfenstein and Pitman from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. today through Friday, with lane restrictions and flagging.

• Drainage work on Dutchtown Road between Lavelle and Gordon from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. today through Friday, with lane restrictions and flagging.

Motorists can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 860 traffic cameras. Follow regional PennDOT information on Twitter at www.twitter.com/511PAAllentown.

FRACKVILLE — Members of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks around the nation held special memorial services Sunday to remember their recently deceased members, including lodges in Schuylkill and surrounding counties.

Frackville Elks Lodge 1533 held its service Sunday at its lodge with Exalted Ruler Robert J. Yutko Jr. conducting the ceremony that was open to the public.

The special memorial ritual is held on the first Sunday of December and is required by “The Laws of the Order,” according to the Lodge Activities Manual of the BPOE of the USA. The manual states that the day be set aside as “all Elkdom shall pause and pay its respects to our ‘Absent Members.’ On this day, you should conduct appropriate services in memory of those who have died. This should be a truly outstanding function that you will conduct. It is not a difficult program to prepare, but is one that, if properly handled, your membership will attend and be proud of.”

The lodge honored the following members who died in the past year:

• Arthur R. Bruno, initiated (as a member) June 20, 2006; died Jan. 28, 2018.

• Michael Cuttic, initiated Oct. 20, 1981; died March 16, 2018.

• Bernard J. Tomko, initiated March 20, 1967; died March 26, 2018.

• Al Gursky, initiated Dec. 27, 1965; died July 31, 2018.

All family members and friends were invited to the ceremony with food and refreshments to follow.

The memorial program began with the singing of “How Great Thou Art,” accompanied by William Zelonis on keyboard.

“Members and guests, our order has decreed that the first Sunday in December be set apart as a day for Elks to gather and freshen with the dew of recollection the tender blossoms of hope and love entwined about the memory of their departed,” Yutko said. “Obedient to our laws, and with hearts attuned in perfect sympathy, we meet on this Memorial Day to pledge anew fidelity to the memory of our fellow members who have entered into the realm of eternity.”

Lodge Chaplain Marianne Yanchulis read the opening prayer:

“Our Father who art in Heaven, Giver of Life, Master of Death, we meet to honor the memory of our fellow members whom thou has summoned to lay down the burdens of mortality, and to find rest with thee. Grant that we may approach this service with eyes undimmed by tears, and with hearts flooded with the sunshine of happy retrospection. Help us to recall the gentle words, the kindly thoughts, the many attributes which made our members true Elks and upright men and women.”

Yanchulis continued, “Give us faith in this hour, to feel again the touch of vanished hands and to hear the voices that are stilled. Imbue our hearts with the inspiring hope of immortality that banishes sorrow and gives assurance of a happy reunion upon the shores of thy fair land. Enable us to read the tablets of love and memory, and learn from the records of our departed members how best to live our own lives. Imbue us with the spirit of true charity; incline our hearts to justice; so broaden our nature that all may find shelter beneath the mantle of our brotherly love; keep us faithful to the memory of our departed members, and may our thoughts of them grow sweeter with the passing years. Amen.”

Yutko said, “As Elks we are taught that some day the mortal shall put on immortality. Firm in our faith, we are reminded by these services that we are born, not to die, but to live. True, the light of beloved eyes has faded from our sight, but it shines more brightly upon another shore. Voices we loved to hear at the fireside, in business, or in fraternal association, are silenced; but they will live again in the music of the Choir Invisible, and blend forever in the harmony of angels. Memorial Day with us is a day of tender sentiment. Hope dries our tears, and with eyes of faith may we see those whom we have loved and lost awhile, and who are awaiting the day when the chain of fraternal love shall be reunited forever.”

After the singing of “Let Their Be Peace on Earth,” lodge Secretary William J. Mack read the roll call of the departed, with lodge Esquire E. Lance Nelson lighting a candle after each name was read.

After the names were read, Yutko said, “In vain we call! They have passed through the valley of the shadows into the sunlight of eternal morning; the places that have known them shall know them no more, but upon our tablets of love and memory, their names shall endure forever.”

Esteemed Leading Knight Albert L. Gricoski said the purpose of the ceremony is “to remind the living that our fellow members are never forgotten.”

Gricoski then placed a Forget-Me-Not flower on the table in front of the lighted candles. He was followed by Esteemed Loyal Knight Michael Krevinas placing an Amaranth flower, followed by Esteemed Lecturing Knight William Cickavage placed a piece of clinging ivy.

The guest speaker was Jeffrey Merwine, pastor of Trinity Evangelical Congregational Church in Frackville.

“We have all gathered together this evening for a time of remembrance, of worship and thanksgiving for those who have departed,” Merwine said. “We come to give thanks to God for the lives of Arthur R. Bruno, Michael Cuttic, Bernard J. Tomko and Al Gursky. We have also come together to witness the grace of God and give thanks to God for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have come together in love to comfort one another with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. May God grant us grace that in pain we may find comfort, that in sorrow of lost loved one we find hope, and in death, the resurrection.”

The “Eleven O’Clock Toast” was offered, which includes the tolling of a bell 11 times.

The toast was followed by the singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” and the closing of the services with the recessional hymn “God Bless America.”

After the service, Michael Tomko, of Frackville, who has a past exalted ruler and conducted the memorial service last year, spoke of his late grandfather Bernard Tomko.

“I’ve been coming down with my grandfather forever. He was a life member, initiated in the 60s,” Tomko said. “I was exalted ruler here last year. I joined because of him. He was very instrumental in getting me involved with the group. It’s a terrific organization and my grandfather came here regularly for 50 years. I’m just very proud that I’ve been able to continue that tradition and carry it on for our family. The Elks is very important to us in Frackville and it’s a wonderful ceremony that they do for fallen members each year.”

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

Deeds

Ashland — Federal National Mortgage Association to CR 2018 LLC; 1301 Arch St.; $7,000.

Butler Township — Federal National Mortgage Association to Global Premier Asset Management NJ LLC; 2 Wildcat Road; $1,260.

Nancy L. Lindenmuth and Gregory Lindenmuth to Gregory and Penny L. Lindenmuth; 4.95-acre property on Route 901; $1.

Nancy L. Lindenmuth and Gregory Lindenmuth to Gregory and Penny L. Lindenmuth; 36.71-acre property on Route 901; $1.

Nancy L. Lindenmuth to Gregory Lindenmuth; 10.15-acre property on Route 901; $1.

Cressona — William E. and Joni B. Gustitus to Dustin F. Subach; 66 Schuylkill St.; $99,500.

East Union Township — Eagle Rock Resort Co. to Benito S. and Christina R. Lindo; Lot 137ER, Eagle Rock; $43,359.10.

Eldred Township — Katelynn S. Stine and Roger E. Stine to Katelynn S. Steich; 1.058-acre property on Smith Road; $1.

Hubley Township — Norman and Yvonne Lettich to Robert R. and Deloris I. Barr; 223 Pine Creek Road, Sacramento; $75,000.

Mahanoy City — Pamela S. Gerber to Jose Perez-Reyes and Elizabeth Perez; property on East Pine Street; $20,000.

New Philadelphia — Joseph E. Valinsky, Margaret A. Valinsky and Stacey A. Strauss to Eric M. Valinsky; 139 Lombard St.; $1.

North Union Township — Robert Jr. and Stephanie Moyer to John Kaczynski; 790 Green Mountain Road, Zion Grove; $800.

Palo Alto — Catherine M. Snopek to Jennifer Reiner and Olicha Reiner; 12 Mary St.; $12,000.

Pine Grove — Michael R. Hughes, executor of the Estate of Karlene A. Hughes, to Michael R. Hughes; 23 Laurel St.; $1.

Pine Grove Township — JSTTOPS LLC to Richard M. and Pauline M. Longenecker; 120 Juniper Court, Swatara Village; $40,000.

Porter Township and Williams Township, Dauphin County — Dianne E. Readinger to Earl R. Etzweiler; 75-percent interest in 41.681-acre property on Route 209; $66,110.11.

Pottsville — Darryl J. Ziminski Jr. to Guy Ebert III; 815 Harrison St.; $74,900.

Schuylkill Haven — James A. and Cynthia A. Fisher to James A. Fisher; 305 Roosevelt St.; $1.

Shenandoah and Allentown, Lehigh County — Henry and Lisa Arroyo to Henry Jr. Arroyo; property on West Centre Street and 430-434 Washington St.; $1.

Tamaqua — Roger F. Brode and Barbara Vacula to Karen Kozacheck; 215 Owl Creek Road; $65,000.

Wayne Township — Jonathan M. Pozza to Alison Beatty; 324 Comanche Drive, Lake Wynonah; $186,500.

West Mahanoy Township — Louis Moyer and Anthony Moyer to Matthew Kufrovich; 128 S. Wylam St., Altamont; $39,900.

Mahanoy City

Elks Lodge 695 will have a meat bingo at 7 p.m. Dec. 15 at the East Centre Street lodge. The cost is $1 per card and the event is open to the public. Food will be on sale during the games. For more information, call 570-773-0629.

McAdoo

Christmas lights have been installed throughout the McAdoo area and envelopes are being distributed asking for donations. Officials said volunteers are needed to help with distribution of envelopes. Those who can help should call Theresa at 570-929-3043.

Pine Grove

Lunch with Santa is set for noon Dec. 15 at the Pine Grove North End Fire Company. Participants will have lunch with Santa and take part in crafts. Youngsters should be sure to have their letters to Santa.

Pottsville

A Yuengling Holiday Open House is set for 5 p.m. Friday at D.G. Yuengling & Son Inc. The event will feature extended shopping hours, music, food and other attractions. There will be $2 pints in the tasting room for folks 21 and older. Bill Yaz will provide live music and Bake Shop VI will have the food, cookies and beer pairing. There will also be a kids’ corner hot chocolate station and special guests from the North Pole. Doorbusters will include $18.29 hats, 10 percent off sweatshirts and a free lager inflatable with any purchase as well as door prizes every hour. For more information, call 570-628-4890.

Pottsville

The Pottsville Area Free Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorials: Russell Imschweiler from Vince Riotto and Jean Towle, Board of Trustees and Staff of the Pottsville Free Public Library, Grabowski Funeral Home, Marty and Theresa Sterner, the Haley family; for Barb Kull from Jerry Pritchett and Josephine Kwiatkowski; for James Reichley from Louise M. Hutchinson

Schuylkill Haven

A paint-and-sip is set for 5 p.m. Jan. 26 with the theme Snowman. The BYOB event, at Brush Strokes, is for people 21 and older. For more information, call 570-900-8344.

Shenandoah

The Shenandoah Area Free Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorials: For Richard Zahorchak by Ed Waiksnoris, Mary and Ron Luscavage; for Esther Lomas Okarma by Mary Ellen Matunis, Frank and Bernie Matunis, Mary Lou, Joe P. and Amanda. The library will have a book sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 8 and 15 with all hardcovers 25 cents each and paperbacks for 10 cents each. Story and craft time at the library is set for 11 a.m. to noon Jan. 5.

Shenandoah Heights

Santa will arrive at the Shenandoah Heights Fire Company and greet youngsters from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 22. All neighborhood children are welcome, according to a company release.

Tamaqua

Diaper Depot, a ministry of Zion Lutheran Church that provides free diapers, is accepting requests for its Dec. 15 distribution. 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.

Tremont

The Santa Float will make an appearance again at 4 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Tremont Area Ambulance building. It will go from town to town in the ambulance coverage area. In the event of inclement weather, the float will go on Dec. 16, according to a release. For more information, call 570-695-2500.

2 charged with drug offenses

MAHANOY CITY — Mahanoy City police filed charges against two men stemming from an incident in the borough around 3:35 p.m. Nov. 25.

Police said Joshua J. Mooney, 31, of 7 Main St., Gilberton, was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and false identification to law enforcement while Devon E. Adubato, 28, of 217 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City, was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

Police said officers, assisted by Shenandoah police, were called to the Adubato home for a report of a woman yelling for help, entered the home and detected an odor of marijuana from a bedroom.

In the bedroom, police said, officers spoke with Adubato and saw in plain sight a glass smoking pipe and a metal grinder that contained marijuana residue.

Also inside the house, officers found Mooney hiding in a back bedroom. Mooney initially provided a false name and when searched was found with a syringe and a metal smoking device, police said.

It was determined that Mooney had an active warrant for his arrest and he was subsequently committed to Schuylkill County Prison on a detainer, police said.

Man charged with DUI after crash

FRIEDENSBURG — State police at Schuylkill Haven investigated a DUI crash that happened at the intersection of routes 183 and 443 in Wayne Township around 1:55 a.m. Nov. 24.

Police said Richard Watson, 37, of South Manheim Township, was driving a 2017 Ford Focus station wagon north on Route 183 when he approached the intersection with Route 443.

While attempting to turn right onto Route 443 east, Watson went straight across the traffic island and hit a traffic light utility pole, causing major damage.

The man’s car then continued across the highway and into a commercial parking lot at 101 Route 183, where it came to a stop, police said.

Watson, police said, was arrested for suspicion of DUI and that charges will be filed with Magisterial District Judge James R. Ferrier, Orwigsburg.

Police said the intersection was closed for several hours until stop signs and early warning signs could be posted.

Police said Friedensburg firefighters, PPL and the Wayne Township road master assisted.

Mahanoy City

The Good American Hose Company No. 3 will host the Grinch for a holiday lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 15 at the firehouse, 738 E. Mahanoy Ave. People will be able to enjoy “roast beast” and “Whoville fries” or “Cindy Lou Hoo sticks” with “Whoville fries,” according to a release. Gravy is optional. Patrons should bring cameras for photos with the Grinch. There will also be a holiday cookie and bake sale. Hot roast beef sandwiches, chicken fingers and fresh cut fries will be sold for people to eat at the fire hall or to take out. To order in advance or for more information, call 570-590-6215.

McAdoo

St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church will hold a cookie sale Dec. 15 after the 4 p.m. liturgy and Dec. 16 after the 9:30 a.m. liturgy. Tricky tray tickets will be available. Winners will be chosen Dec. 16.

Nuremberg

The Twin County Joint Municipal Authority will hold its regular meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the treatment plant in Nuremberg. The public is welcome.

Pottsville

The Gabriel Youth Orchestra, under the direction of Matthew Tenaglia, will perform its holiday concert at 3 p.m. Sunday at the Pottsville Area School District’s D.H.Y. Lengel Middle School Auditorium. The program will feature holiday music. The GYO was established in 2010 under the auspices of the Gabriel Chamber Ensemble. GYO provides an opportunity for high school students from throughout the region to play in a professionally managed setting, according to a press release, which added that GYO is the only available outlet for young musicians to assemble in full orchestral mode. Tenaglia has been music director of GYO since 2016. He also is the conductor and music director of bands at Warwick High School, Lititz, and previously served as director of the North Schuylkill High School Band. The GYO is funded by the Gabriel Chamber Ensemble, nonprofit organization; also by ticket and advertising revenues and individual, corporate and foundation support and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and Schuylkill Area Community Foundation. Tickets for the concert are $5 for adults and free for children. There will be a post-concert reception. For more information about GYO or GCE, call Agnès Maurer, GCE executive director, at 570-943-2558, or email gce@gabrielensemble.org. More information also is available online at www.gabrielensemble.org.

Shenandoah

The Shenandoah Area Free Public Library, Washington and Main streets, will have a book sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 8 and 15 with all hardcovers 25 cents each and paperbacks for 10 cents each. Story and craft time at the library is set for 11 a.m. to noon Jan. 5. For more information, call 570-462-9829.

Shenandoah

The Greater Shenandoah Area Chamber of Commerce is again sponsoring the annual residential holiday decoration contest. Mark J Bernardyn, co-chairman, said in a release that every year residents take pride in decorating their homes. Co-chairwomen Beth Cataldo and Betty Ann Bugden said residents should keep their lights on for three weeks prior to Christmas for judging. Winners will be announced and prizes awarded on Dec. 21.

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. For more information, call DSI at 570-462-2060.

Tamaqua

The Tamaqua Public Library’s young adult program meets the third Monday of each month. The next session will be at 6 p.m. Dec. 17 when the discussion will center on the BBC television series “Doctor Who.” There will also be games and free pizza. The library’s annual Christmas book sale is underway.

PINE GROVE — A fourth-grader remembered for his academic and athletic talents, and his kindness, will now have a special bench erected in his memory at Pine Grove Area Elementary School.

“Chase’s Buddy Bench” was unveiled at the school in November and is scheduled to be permanently placed on the school grounds this spring.

It’s in memory of the late Chase E. Morgan, a 9-year-old boy who died from brain cancer in February. He was the son of Edward and Sharon Morgan, of Pine Grove.

“Academically, he excelled,” Elementary Principal Sandra Burns said Thursday. Burns said Chase’s family was notified of the bench’s purchase, and his father was present when the school board approved it.

The bench will eventually be placed in the playground area or where the buildings and grounds department recommends. It’s not for lounging, but encourages children to “buddy up” with someone who is alone at recess.

“It may help children become more empathetic toward others on the playground,” Burns said. Guidance counselor Michelle Brand will be teaching a lesson about the bench and students’ proper behavior. Chase’s birthday is in March, so that’s a possible target date for its permanent placement outside, the principal said.

The bright, cardinal red bench is currently set up in a hallway alcove near the cafeteria. It features the words “Chase’s Buddy Bench” and has a cut-out of a baseball and a soccer ball on the bench backrest, recognizing some of the sports that Chase enjoyed. He was a member of the Pine Grove Youth Soccer Association, West Schuylkill FC Soccer Team, Pine Grove Little League, Lasers Travel Baseball Team and the Pine Grove Biddy Basketball Team.

Surrounding the bench is a backdrop the school staff created that looks like a grassy stadium and is adorned with sports jerseys listing the names of students who are “Mrs. Burns’s Academic All Stars.” Those are students from kindergarten through fourth-grade who did well academically for a particular quarter. Those names will rotate, following each report card period.

The bench also sports a list of rules. Among them, students are reminded to only sit on the bench if they need someone to play with or if they need a friend. If they see someone sitting on the bench, they’re encouraged to talk to the child and invite the person to play. Students who sit on the bench are encouraged to say “yes” when a peer asks them to join in to play.

Dawn Reiter, a first-grade teacher, said the $1,000 bench was purchased through a Venture Grant from the Pine Grove Area Education Foundation. The foundation gave $500 toward its cost, and Kim Barry, a PTO member, organized a DVD fundraiser using photos of Chase to raise the additional $500 needed.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

The third annual Dirty Santa event collected approximately 1,200 unwrapped gifts for the Marine Corps League Toys for Tots program and drew nearly 700 participants Sunday, according to Richard Pelkowski, vice president of the Delaware Valley Trail Riders.

Jeeps joined ATVs, motorcycles and side-by-side vehicles this year in the trail-riding event near Saint Clair, he said.

“It’s not just the gray-haired guys, we do get a lot of youth and families,” Pelkowski said.

Outdoor enthusiasts paid a $35 admission fee, plus donated at least one unwrapped gift. It enabled them a chance to ride several courses at the Famous Reading Outdoors Park off Darkwater Road and to receive a catered lunch, branded T-shirt and other giveaways.

“With the weather, it was impressive that we got the turnout that we did. It was an incredibly muddy event ... It’s very satisfying,” Pelkowski said.

Most riders came from Pennsylvania, New York and Maryland, or within a 100-mile radius, he said.

“From when they started out, they doubled their collection and it was a huge success last year and again this year,” Ed Quirin, chairman of the Toys for Tots program of Schuylkill County, said of the Dirty Santa effort.

The items gathered from Sunday’s event were taken to the Foursquare Gospel Church in Pottsville for packaging, Quirin said. Volunteers from the Salvation Army helped during the collection and packaging process.

The deadline to place items in the Toys for Tots collection boxes is Saturday. Toys will be distributed Dec. 17 to 19, Quirin said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

After 123 years of family-run leadership, Times-Shamrock Communications, which includes The Republican-Herald, will consolidate its media companies and noncore businesses under a single, nonfamily leader, company officials told employees Monday morning.

The change comes as part of a long-term strategic plan, the three family CEOs Matthew E. Haggerty, George V. Lynett Jr. and Robert J. Lynett said during a meeting with the staff.

The three will transition leadership of Times-Shamrock over the course of the next few months. All three will remain active in family governance of Times-Shamrock and ELK Lake Capital, an investment arm of the Lynett/Haggerty family.

“This change to nonfamily leadership has been years in the making and is an important part of our strategic and succession planning processes,” said Scott Lynett, chairman of the Times-Shamrock Family Council. “Changes to our business and leadership models will fuel the growth and diversification of our company and enable us to be more agile in a highly dynamic business environment. Our family deeply appreciates the wonderful job that Bobby, Matthew and George Jr. have done leading our company.”

Jim Lewandowski, chief financial officer since 2014, will be promoted to chief executive officer effective April 1, 2019, the company also announced. He will oversee the media businesses that comprise Times-Shamrock Communications, including The Times-Tribune, as well as Elk Lake Capital, the family’s private equity investment arm.

Don Farley, chief operating officer of Times-Shamrock Communications and a 35-year veteran of the company, will assume the new role of president of Times-Shamrock Communications, overseeing all media operations across the U.S. — print, radio, outdoor and digital.

“Jim has been an outstanding contributor to our company as CFO,” Matthew Haggerty said. “We believe Jim’s extensive experience in multiple industries, his strong working relationship with our current leadership team and his passion for our company, our family and our community make Jim an ideal candidate to lead our company.”

Lewandowski joined Times-Shamrock in 2014 as chief financial officer. He has led the company’s business and financial operations and is a key leader on the strategic planning team. In addition, Lewandowski has been deeply involved in Elk Lake Capital, working with the teams at Flying Fish and ELS/ELSS on all financial matters and long-range planning.

Prior to joining Times-Shamrock, Lewandowski served as chief financial officer for leading companies in the healthcare, manufacturing and construction industries. He also spent eight years as part of a senior management team with a large family office managing a portfolio of investments. He is a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University and earned his CPA while in public accounting.

“I am both humbled and excited by the opportunity to lead Times-Shamrock and Elk Lake Capital,” Lewandowski said. “We have great opportunities across multiple industries both in the short and long term. Most importantly, we have an amazing team of dedicated and talented employees to carry out our mission of being indispensable to the people we serve.”

Farley began his career as a sales representative with Times-Shamrock in 1984. He was promoted to sales manager seven months after joining the company and became general manager of four weekly publications in 1988. In 1988, Farley was promoted to publisher of Baltimore City Paper and, in 1999, he became group publisher when Times-Shamrock acquired alternative newsweeklies in Detroit, Orlando, San Antonio and, in 2007, Cleveland.

Farley was promoted to the newly created position of regional general manager in 2011 and was tapped to become chief operating officer for print and digital in 2013. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the California University of Pennsylvania.

“Don’s long track record of success in our print and digital operations make him the perfect choice to lead all our media operations,” George Lynett Jr. said. “As president of all Times-Shamrock media platforms, Don will be uniquely positioned to ensure that we are the leading media company in every market we serve.”

Matthew Haggerty, Bobby Lynett and George Lynett Jr. plan to transition out of their roles over the next several months.

Matthew Haggerty and his wife, Chrissy, recently purchased two manufacturing companies in Lewisburg and are very excited to become owner operators.

“Times-Shamrock has provided me the opportunity to be part of a strong and vibrant company,” Matthew Haggerty said. “Any and all successes we have enjoyed over the past years are due to the dedication and commitment of our wonderful company leaders and employees.”

Bobby Lynett plans to get more involved in the local community and civic organizations, and is exploring a number of professional opportunities.

“The past 21 years working for the Times-Shamrock family have been one of the most rewarding endeavors that I could ever imagine,” Bobby Lynett said. “I am truly thankful for the opportunity to work with and for such wonderful people.”

George Lynett Jr. will continue to represent Times-Shamrock near term in leadership positions with regional and national industry groups, such as the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association and the Independent Newspaper Group. In addition, he is exploring a number of new business opportunities.

“Our media companies in northeast Pa. continue to be critical institutions reporting on the daily lives of our communities and serving our advertisers,” George Lynett Jr. said. “I am forever grateful to be a part of such a wonderful organization and look forward to its exciting next chapter.”

Added Bobby Lynett: “This is an exciting time for our company. Our family believes that there are great opportunities ahead in our core media businesses, as well as in the industries we have entered through Elk Lake Capital.”