Barnesville

“Pap” Knauss, a park naturalist and conservation volunteer, will lead a wildflower walk at 10:30 a.m. Sunday on the Spirit of Tuscarora Trail in search of summer flowers. The 4.5-mile trail is rated moderate. It winds through several habitats and includes a “beautiful view” of the Tuscarora Lake cove and includes a stream crossing, according to an event release. Participants will meet in the upper beach parking lot near the trailhead and should bring a lunch. Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed and get along well with people and other pets. The walk will be held shine only.

Deer Lake

The Deer Lake and West Brunswick Fire Company will sponsor bingo games on Tuesday in the firehall, 1 Ash Road. Doors will open at 5 p.m. and games will begin at 6 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-366-0152.

Gordon

The 14th Gordon School Reunion and Homecoming will be held at the Gordon Municipal Social Hall on Aug. 10. Organizers said in a release it will be “a celebration of our school and town, sharing fond memories and a good meal among family, friends and neighbors.” This invitation is for anyone who attended the Gordon School, lives or has lived in Gordon. For more information, call Dorothy Snyder at 570-875-0873 or Roberta Richards at 570-875-9784. To save on postage, letters to Gordon residents were not mailed out this year. The deadline for reservations is July 29.

New Ringgold

A block party by the New Ringgold Fire Company, 25 N. Railroad St., is set for 5 to 11 p.m. July 19 and noon to 5 p.m. July 20. It will include food, beverages, games, a bounce house, entertainment by the Jesse Wade Gang on July 19 and by Double Barrel on July 20 plus a car and tractor show from noon to 5 p.m. July 20. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-943-2212.

Pottsville

The M&J Big Band will hold a swing dance at the St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church Parish Center, 313 Mahantongo St., from 7 to 9 p.m. July 19. Doors will open at 6 p.m. For people wanting to learn how to swing dance, a beginner class will start at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $12. For tickets or more information, call the parish office at 570-622-1802. All are welcome.

Shenandoah

The Shenandoah Area Free Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorials: For Elaine A. Schreppel by Joe and Andrea Pytak; for Kathryn Achenbach by Joe and Andrea Pytak; for Dr. Joseph J. Matunis by Joe and Andrea Pytak; for Eleanor Oravitz by Joe and Andrea Pytak; for Ulysses Flores by Joe and Andrea Pytak; for Francis and Dorothy Nause by Thomas J. Nause; for Frank Savitsky by Bob and Eileen Hopkins; for E. Jean Stanulonis by Rose Ann Markunas, Joe and Andrea Pytak; for Silas Thompson by Robert P. Thompson; for Cassandra Grutza by Joe and Andrea Pytak, Kathleen Merchlinsky, Rose Ann Markunas, the Dopkin family, Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Acalin, William Kalenkoski, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Taylor, Joan and Bob Racis, Anita and Marty Dwyer, Bob and Ellen Selgrade, Diane and Dan Monlish, Mary Flannery, Carol Zitka, Eddie and Diane Chowanes, Ellen Fell, Roseann Grutza Behyaker, Gloria Laudeman.

Shenandoah

The annual Rescue Hook & Ladder “Hookies” Fire Company block party is set for Aug. 2, 3 and 4 along the first block of East Coal Street adjacent to the firehouse, Main and Coal streets. The 2019 fest will include games, ethnic and American food including the renowned Hookies’ bleenies and the traditional horse shoe tournament the morning of Aug. 3. All are welcome. For more information, call the firehouse at 570-462-9575.

Tremont

The Tremont Area Free Public Library, 19 N. Pine St., has extended an invitation for children and their families to participate at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the parking lot of Most Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 113 Cherry St., to observe the full moon with binoculars and snack on moon pies to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. For more information, call 570-695-3325. People may email the library at tafpl@epix.net.

POTTSVILLE — City and business leaders say they are prepared for the big party Saturday celebrating Yuengling’s 190th anniversary.

Nine hours of activities that include more than 80 vendors, four concerts, fireworks and, of course, Yuengling beer kick off at 1 p.m. as America’s Oldest Brewery celebrates in its hometown.

“I think it’s going to be one of the biggest things the City of Pottsville has seen in the last 50 years,” Mayor James T. Muldowney said.

Dave Clews, president of the Pottsville Business Association, said the influx of visitors to the city is a good thing.

“I’m very excited about an event of this size being in the downtown,” he said.

For fifth-generation Yuengling owner Richard L. “Dick” Yuengling Jr., the goal is simple. Asked about the event while he was attending Sunday’s Anthracite Philharmonic concert at the Yuengling Mansion Gardens, he said, “We just hope everybody enjoys this.”

Helping to draw the expected large crowd is platinum-selling Better Than Ezra, New Orleans-based alternative rockers who will perform a free concert from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Laurel Boulevard and Progress Avenue. Their show will be followed by fireworks to cap the day.

Jennifer, Wendy, Sheryl and Debbie Yuengling, sixth generation operators of the brewery, are fans of the band and announced the concert in a promotional event in April at the Yuengling Gift Shop. The Yuengling family is paying for the concert.

The Continued Progress Project, which is made up of the city, Pottsville Area Development Corp. and PBA, also partnered for the celebration. Abby Weaver and Joe Drasdis III, coordinators with CPP, helped spearhead the event.

30,000 visitors?

A 57-page Emergency Operations Plan for the celebration, prepared by Lehigh Law Enforcement Officers Association Inc., estimates attendance at 30,000 throughout the day. The booklet covers security, admission, alcohol and other topics.

Paul Kennedy, deputy chief of operations, said Lehigh Law Enforcement is providing event security as well as traffic and parking services. The Pottsville police department and other law enforcement entities will also be present.

While city officials aren’t sure attendance will reach 30,000, they are excited nonetheless.

“If I see any more than 10,000, I am thrilled to death,” said Muldowney, whose estimate is 15,000 to 18,000.

“I would love to see 30,000 people,” said City Councilman Joe Devine, who noted people are excited about the event.

Jerry Enders, owner of Jerry’s Classic Cars and Collectible Museum, believes Saturday will be “the biggest day in Pottsville” since the Great Pottsville Cruise, which was a four-day event from 2008 to 2010. The cruise attracted 8,000 to 10,000 each year, he said.

Robert S. Carl Jr., president and CEO of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, believes “a very large crowd” could attend.

“The draw could be even bigger than we think,” he said.

He noted social media has a way to reach audiences that was unimaginable in the past. It’s not overlooked that Yuengling is very popular and its products are sold in 22 states.

“The exposure of this is unpredictable,” Carl said.

Regardless of the numbers, he said the 190th celebration will “showcase” the city and what it has to offer.

“You hope for this in every community,” Carl said about attracting new people.

Savas Logothetides, PADCO executive director, factors in the weather when predicting turnout.

As of Wednesday, the National Weather Service at State College was forecasting sun and a high of 87 for Saturday.

Muldowney offered his own “forecast.”

“It will be sunny and 78 degrees with a nice breeze running through the air,” he said confidently.

City Administrator Thomas A. Palamar said if the weather holds out, a large crowd isn’t unfathomable, saying perhaps 15,000 could attend. As a local, though, he’s excited for the event regardless of its out-of-town draw.

“I’m a music fan; I love music,” he said.

Restaurant, hotel impact

Logothetides, who owns Wheel restaurant at Second and Market streets, believes downtown businesses will see an increase in foot traffic this weekend. He is bringing on more staff to accommodate that.

Jerry Labooty, owner of The Greystone restaurant at Centre Street and Laurel Boulevard, said he’s also increasing staff.

“We’ll put people wherever we can,” he said about customers.

Enders said the increase in visitors means a spike in tourism.

“I think it’s a big day for all businesses to take advantage of promoting their own businesses,” he said.

An employee of the Ramada Inn said Monday there was just one room remaining for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Allyson Seibert, owner of The Maid’s Quarters Bed, Breakfast & Tearoom, Pottsville, which has three rooms, said she has been booked for months.

“I’m actually booked for the whole weekend,” she said.

The first reservation for this weekend was made in March, Seibert said, and she’s not surprised. She said about 70 percent of the guests who stay there come because of Yuengling.

Palamar said Yuengling has been good for the community, and that will show in visitor numbers this weekend.

“It really is a true American success story,” he said. “They have helped make many other businesses successful.”

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

A man and a teenage girl were jailed on robbery and other charges while another man is locked up on a parole violation after an incident that began around 12:15 a.m. Tuesday in Pottsville.

Pottsville Police Chief Richard F. Wojciechowsky said Officer Tina Sullivan was assisting with a disabled vehicle in the area of East Norwegian and South Jackson streets when she was handed a cellphone that a woman found lying in the street.

An investigation to find the owner led to Trent Schaeffer, 26, of Pottsville, who was identified in court documents.

At the time, Schaeffer was in a local hospital receiving treatment for a laceration to his face that he suffered in an assault shortly before.

Gun under man’s chin

Officers determined the Schaeffer had gone to 906 W. Race St. with two others after receiving several text messages requesting he do so.

Wojciechowsky said that, at that address, Saye Nehwon Kilikpo, 29, whose last known address was in Macungie, asked Schaeffer to walk to the rear of the house to talk with him.

It’s there that Kilikpo pulled a black handgun from his waistband and put it under the victim’s chin.

Meanwhile, a 17-year-old Minersville girl was holding a knife and telling others in the home she would stab them if they tried to interfere, police said.

The chief said Kilikpo told the girl to take the Schaeffer’s cellphone and wallet, which she did.

Victim’s face slashed

Schaeffer then knocked the gun out of Kilikpo’s hand. Two men tried to gain control of the weapon while it was on the floor and Schaeffer was able to run out of the house with his two companions and tried to get into a parked car.

Wojciechowsky said Kilikpo pursued Schaeffer and, as the girl held the car door open, Kilikpo slashed the victim across the face with a knife before he and the girl fled.

The chief said officers found the girl a short time later in a parked car in the 2200 block of West Market Street and took her into custody without incident.

Kilikpo was found in the 1000 block of West Market Street, where he was taken into custody and transported back to City Hall.

Juvenile charged as adult

Wojciechowsky said interviews were completed with several witnesses to the robbery and assault and, after consulting with Schuylkill County District Attorney Mike O’Pake, it was determined that the teenager would be charged as an adult due to the severity of the crimes committed, Wojciechowsky said.

According to court records, she is Kameerah Ronieci. Sullivan charged her with felony offenses of strong arm robbery, conspiracy to commit strong arm robbery and aggravated assault along with misdemeanor crimes of simple assault, theft, conspiracy to commit theft, receiving stolen property, conspiracy to commit receiving stolen property and possessing instruments of crime.

She was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley, Pottsville, and committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $75,000 straight cash bail.

Sullivan also charged Kilikpo with felony crimes of strong arm robbery, conspiracy to commit strong arm robbery and aggravated assault along with simple assault, theft, conspiracy to commit theft, receiving stolen property, conspiracy to commit receiving stolen property, corruption of minors, possessing instruments of crime and possession of a prohibited offensive weapon.

He was also arraigned by Reiley and committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $150,000 straight cash bail.

Wojciechowsky said the investigation revealed Schaeffer was wanted for a state parole violation and after his medical treatment, he was taken into custody and committed to State Correctional Institute/Frackville.

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

A Mahanoy City woman faces numerous charges after a fight on the beach of Tuscarora State Park in Rush Township in June, court papers said.

Johanna Rodriguez, 32, was charged with criminal attempt-aggravated assault, terroristic threats, resisting arrest, two counts; escape, three counts; disorderly conduct, open lewdness, public drunkenness and disorderly conduct engage in fighting. She was released on $10,000 unsecured bail.

According to court papers, a ranger received a report of an assault on the beach and beach-goers told her that a woman, identified as Rodriguez, hit another woman and was using profanities. The ranger saw her hit a child and approached her.

The ranger smelled the odor of an alcoholic beverage on her and asked her to tell her story, but Rodriguez chose to yell profanities at a man from her group, the affidavit said. The ranger asked for identification and Rodriguez did not comply and walked toward the parking lot with members of her group.

The ranger blocked her from walking and told her not to leave. Another ranger attempted to handcuff Rodriguez, who broke away and continued walking, court papers said.

Rodriguez said she had to urinate and was going to urinate on the ranger. Rodriguez pulled down her pants, swung her buttocks toward the ranger and said she was going to urinate on her. There were numerous families and children in the area when she did this, court papers said.

The ranger instructed her to pull up her pants and go to the restroom, and then escorted her to the restroom, court papers said. Rodriguez tried to exit the restroom from the back way, and she was instructed to turn around and spread her feet, the affidavit said.

Rodriguez called the ranger a name, threatened to fight her and threw a punch, court papers said. The ranger attempted to subdue Rodriguez, who pulled away and threatened to fight again.

Tamaqua police assisted the other ranger with escorting Rodriguez’s husband to a patrol car, because he attempted to head butt the ranger and break free.

Rodriguez yelled threats at the people watching the interaction and continued to resist. Police from Ryan Township, Mahanoy City, and state police arrived and Rodriguez was cuffed.

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

POTTSVILLE — The following areas are available to park for the downtown festivities celebrating Yuengling Brewery’s 190th anniversary.

VIP parking

Persons with VIP passes for the event may park at the Schuylkill County Jurors Lot, 649 Sanderson St.

City streets

Street parking is available in and around the downtown on a limited basis. Parking can occur at any metered location; care should be exercised not to park in restricted areas. There will be no shuttle bus service offered for street parking.

Vehicles parked illegally or dangerously may be towed by order of city police.

Union Street parking lot

Premium parking (walking distance to both venues; no shuttle). $10 per car.

200 E. Union St.

Pottsville Area School District

complex

$5 per car. Shuttle service available; Red Route.

1501 Laurel Blvd.

Schuylkill Medical Mall

Free parking. Shuttle service available; Purple Route.

700 Schuylkill Manor Road.

Fairlane Village mall

Free parking. Shuttle service available; Orange Route.

Route 61 north of Pottsville.

Empire Beauty School

Free parking. Shuttle service available; Orange Route.

Route 61 north of Pottsville.

The Hillside SPCA has again removed animals from a county home.

According to shelter Executive Director Tricia Moyer Mentzer, 18 cats and three dogs were taken from a home in Park Place, outside Mahanoy City, around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. She said four cats remain on the property and will have to be trapped to be removed.

“I believe they will all survive,” Mentzer said Wednesday afternoon.

However, several of the felines are young, all have fleas and none have had any veterinarian care. Also, none appear to be pregnant, and all will have to be spayed or neutered after their health improves.

Mentzer said the shelter is heavily burdened after several seizures this summer and appealed to the public for support in donations and adoptions.

POTTSVILLE — Tom Drummond of the band Better Than Ezra said they will entertain with a “high-energy show” Saturday.

The bass guitarist talked Wednesday about the free concert they will perform at 8 p.m. at Progress Avenue and Laurel Boulevard.

“We will probably play a lot of hits,” Drummond said.

The group, which consists of Drummond, Kevin Griffin, Michael Jerome and Jim Payne, wants to keep the music upbeat with the celebratory atmosphere of Yuengling’s 190th anniversary. The band formed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1988 and is based in New Orleans.

“We will definitely do ‘Good,’ ‘Desperately Wanting,’ ‘Crazy Lucky,’ ‘Breathless’ and ‘Juicy,’ ” Drummond said.

The Yuengling sisters, Debbie, Jennifer, Wendy and Sheryl, announced the band’s performance in April. They listened to the band growing up.

“It’s a band that kind of resonates with us,” Jennifer Yuengling said previously.

Drummond attributes the longevity of the band with “good songs and song writing,” as well as passion for the music and people.

“We enjoy what we do,” Drummond said.

The band’s most recent song was “Grateful,” released in 2018. Their most recent album, “All Together Now,” was released in 2014.

Inspiration for songs comes from everyday life and the music they listened to growing up, Drummond said.

“We try to incorporate things that inspire us,” Drummond said.

Drummond said he believes this is the first time the band will be in Schuylkill County.

Drummond said he enjoys Yuengling Lager.

“It’s a classic, really good beer,” he said.

Merchandise will be available near the main stage on Progress Avenue and Laurel Boulevard.

In addition to Better Than Ezra, local bands will entertain visitors throughout the day.

The Boys Upstairs, Pottsville, will perform from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Yuengling Brewery Stage C, Mahantongo Street; Toolshed Jack, based in Northeast Pennsylvania, will play from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Arch Street Stage B; and Hooligan, Pottsville, will open for Better Than Ezra from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the main stage.

Contact the writer: amarchiano@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6028

The Republican-Herald will publish stories next week about the 50th anniversary of the first man to walk on the moon, which occurred on July 20, 1969.

It’s a moment in history that, for those old enough, they remember exactly where they were when they heard the news.

So, where were you?

We encourage readers to share their memories, brief or lengthy, with us. And if you happen to have a photo of yourself in a space suit or perhaps visiting NASA through the years or anything else pertinent, those are welcome too.

We’ll publish some of these remembrances as part of next week’s coverage.

Content can be sent to The Republican-Herald at:

• 111 Mahantongo St., Pottsville, Pa. 17901 (for return of photos, you must include a self-addressed stamped envelope.)

• Email bsmith@republicanherald.com (include subject line “Moon Landing.”

• Or through a direct message on our Facebook page.

For its 58th year, the Allied Artists of Schuylkill County’s Annual Art Show will commence this weekend.

The opening reception and awards presentation will be held 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, with the show open 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday and 6 to 8 p.m. daily through July 20. The event is free to the public.

Due to lack of air conditioning and the mid-July heat, this year’s show moved from its former venue of seven years, the Foursquare Gospel Church in Pottsville, to the Health and Wellness Building at Penn State Schuylkill, 200 University Drive, Schuylkill Haven.

Preparations for the show begin months in advance, immediately following the end of the previous years’ show. Changing the venue this year added to the early stages of planning, although “Penn State personnel have been extremely accommodating and enthusiastic about holding our show on their campus, said Marg Wolf, AASC president.

The show is a constantly shifting eclectic ecology thriving from its contributing artists and forms, which change every year.

“Styles, materials and techniques evolve each year to pique new interest,” Wolf said. “This year, artists entering the show work in watercolor, oil gouache, acrylic, graphite and colored pencil, charcoal, pastel, collage, mixed media and photography.”

The show is judged in four categories: Under-glass, Not Under-glass, Photography and Mixed Media. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second and third place, as well as two honorable mention ribbons, for each category, according to Wolf.

Original artwork from local artists lines the main gallery, while artists sell prints, cards and other products.

“You may even find some unframed originals for sale in the Corner Gallery,” Wolf said.

Wolf said the public is both enthused and surprised by the talent found in our community.

“All reactions we’ve experienced have been positive. Many people have said they weren’t aware of the talent in our area and were delighted to see such a variety of art represented.”

The public even has an important role in the following year’s show, Wolf said.

“Public input is considered through the People’s Choice Award. The winning art of this award becomes the cover art for next year’s show brochure.”

As well as being the president of the AASC, Wolf is also the featured artist in this year’s show. She will be showcasing all oil paintings aside from one graphite piece done completely by erasure, a technique which involves completely covering a paper in graphite and using an eraser to create the image.

Contact the writer: cwertz@

republicanherald.com; 570-628-6004

Directions

After turning onto University Drive, the first parking lot on the right will be used for handicapped parking

Other parking can be found in the main lot

Follow the walking path; the building will be on the right.

Charges are pending against the driver who crashed his vehicle into a Hometown residence and then tried to flee the scene Monday afternoon, Rush Township police said.

According to police, witnesses said John Pickens, 38, was abusing inhalants at the time of the collision on the unit block of Lafayette Avenue, Route 54. They also told police that he attempted to leave but was unable to do so.

Police said further investigation into the incident found that Pickens had rear-ended another vehicle in the 200 block of Claremont Avenue and was fleeing from that crash when he smashed into the home. The front half of his car was inside the home.

Police said neither Pickens nor anyone in the home was injured.

Officers took Pickens into custody and for a blood test at St. Luke’s Hospital-Miners Campus in Coaldale. The department intends to file charges once the investigation is complete.

Rush Township police were assisted by Tamaqua police, Hometown Volunteer Fire Company No. 1, Hometown fire police, Tamaqua Ambulance, Lehighton Ambulance and Tamaqua Rescue.

ORWIGSBURG — When Volkswagen announced this week that it was discontinuing production of its iconic Beetle model automobile, John R. “Jack” Bertolet Jr. did not rejoice, even though he makes his living selling the company’s vehicles.

“It was surprising,” he said Thursday at his dealership along Route 61, the only one in Schuylkill County for the German-based automaker. “The Beetle has been the face of our company for 55 years.”

With an unusual shape and small size, the Beetle became a symbol for Volkswagen. In the United States, the company’s most important foreign market, the Beetle became a symbol of the Sixties and recognizable around the world.

“It’s kind of a family heirloom for a lot of people,” Bertolet said.

This week’s announcement made Bertolet think of September 1998, when his dealership became the first in the United States to have the revived Beetle, now made in Mexico, available to sell to the public, although he had only two in stock.

“Volkswagen ... introduced it in Disneyland. We were all invited with our spouses and families,” he said. “It was absolutely magical.”

Bertolet said he obtained the first Beetles to be sold because of a plan that would have been ruined.

“We had invited our customers to an open house with the assumption that the Beetle would be available. We found out that the Beetle would be held up,” he said.

Bertolet said he talked with Clive Warrilow, then president of Volkswagen of America, who arranged for two Beetles — one light blue, the other yellow — to be shipped to Orwigsburg.

It turned out to be a crazy day, with the business staying open two extra hours, he said.

“We were overwhelmed with customers that day. We arrived an hour early,” Bertolet said. “(There were) row after row of customers.”

He said he bought gerbera daisies to put in the vases that were a part of both the old and new Beetles.

The dealership still is decorated with posters of some of the ads for the Beetle designed by the firm Doyle Dane Bernbach, New York. Those ads include one showing the car with the phrase “Think Small,” a campaign that won praise from many in the advertising business.

“They were some of the most iconic ads,” Bertolet said.

For Bertolet, the Beetle also holds personal as well as business memories.

“We used to wrap a rope around the bumper and tow each other on skis,” he said.

The car itself was distinctive and special, according to Bertolet.

“We felt it was the perfect second car,” he said. “It was awesome in the snow. You had a lot of ground clearance. It got great gas mileage.”

Bertolet also said the snow theme reminded him of another ad, which boosted the Beetle as the car that snowplow drivers used to get to their snowplows.

However, the Beetle became the victim of the increased emphasis on electric cars throughout the industry, Bertolet said.

“Because they have no engines, they’ll take on different shapes,” Bertolet said of electric cars. “The Beetle didn’t fit.”

He also said he does not think there will be another comeback for the Beetle, although he emphasizes that the company does not have to have it in order to succeed.

“I think Volkswagen is going to survive in a big way by making the commitment to electric vehicles,” Bertolet said. He estimates that 45 percent of his dealership’s sales will be electric vehicles by 2025.

“It’s a matter of getting them out on the market,” he said. “The battery technology is making some quantum leaps.”

Regardless of whether Beetles ever are manufactured again, Bertolet always will remember them fondly.

“Just look at somebody driving a (Beetle),” he said. “They’re usually smiling, happy people.”

Contact the writer: pbortner@republicanheraldcom; 570-628-6014

RINGTOWN — Insurance investigators say the cause of a fire that destroyed a borough business Wednesday morning may never be found.

The fire was discovered around 1:10 a.m. and completely destroyed Ringtown Mill and Hardware at 655 N. Main St.

Ringtown Valley Fire and Rescue Company Chief Joseph Gilbert Jr. said the insurance investigator surveyed the area and feels that due to the amount of fire damage, coupled with collapses throughout the structure, determining the exact cause and origin is almost impossible.

With that thought in mind, Gilbert said, he will rule the cause of the fire as undetermined.

On Wednesday, Gilbert said, he conferred with state police fire marshal Trooper John F. Burns of the Frackville station about the amount of damage and possibility of finding a cause of the fire.

However, Gilbert said that statement was made toward an April 11 fire that destroyed Valley Beverage at 422 W. Main St.

Burns and Trooper Joseph Hall assisted with the investigation of the beer store and were unable to come up with a cause and origin due to the extensive damage.

State police were not contacted or involved in the Ringtown Mill and Hardware investigation.

Burns confirmed Thursday that he was never contacted by fire officials to assist in their investigation.

“Neither myself or any member of the state police were not contacted by the (chief) Gilbert or anyone from the Ringtown Fire Co.,” Burns said.

Burns said the state police fire marshal’s division routinely assists with the investigations of major fires, and he found it unusual the services of the state police were not requested.

Jason Muraczewski, owner of the mill, also is the owner of JM Auto Sales on the Gold Star Highway in Shenandoah.

Muraczewski could not be reached for comment about the progress of the investigation into the cause of the fire or whether or not he plans to rebuild.

An employee at the auto sales business said Muraczewski has been busy throughout the day dealing with representatives of his insurance company regarding the fire to his Ringtown property.

Firefighters responding to the call around 1:10 a.m. found the portion of the mill that housed a silo completely engulfed in flames.

Fire quickly spread to the remainder of the large structure that housed a hardware store and garage.

Both sections of the building were completely destroyed.

Gilbert said he had no estimate of damage leaving that to be determined by insurance investigators.

No injuries were reported.

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

James R. Ferrier

ORWIGSBURG — A Port Carbon man is headed to Schuylkill County Court after waiving his right to a preliminary hearing on July 2 on a charge that he stole more than $1,000 from his employer’s Cressona business in March.

Curtis L. Branch, 36, of 325 Coal St., faces a charge of theft. Magisterial District Judge James R. Ferrier bound over that charge for court after Branch waived his right to the hearing.

State police at Schuylkill Haven allege that between 2 and 4:30 p.m. March 23, Branch stole $1,053 from Tejinder Hill, owner of the Cressona Mobil gasoline station, 20 Pottsville Ave.

Police said Branch took some of the money from the cash register and the rest from the lottery (skills) box and used it to gamble.

A co-worker said Branch refused to account for the money in either the register or the box at the shift change, as is required, police said.

Branch is free on $5,000 unsecured bail pending further court proceedings.

Other defendants whose cases Ferrier considered on July 2, the charges against each one and the judge’s dispositions of the matter included the following people:

Brittney N. Fisher, 31, of 620 Clairmont Ave., Schuylkill Haven; possession of drug paraphernalia; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge bound over for court.

Paul L. Grigg III, 49, of 2311 N. Front St., Harrisburg; gambling devices; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge bound over for court.

Ryan Heffelfinger, 35, of 823 Penn Drive, Tamaqua; strangulation, simple assault, terroristic threats and harassment; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge of strangulation withdrawn, other charges bound over for court.

Michael B. Mabry Sr., 48, of 108 N. Tulpehocken St., Pine Grove; false reports to law enforcement; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge bound over for court.

Jordan Pelachick, 27, of 126 Avenue D., Schuylkill Haven; possession of drug paraphernalia; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge bound over for court.

David C. Rickard, 19, of 101 Jefferson St., Schuylkill Haven; possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia; charges held for court after preliminary hearing that Rickard did not attend. Ferrier asked the court to issue a bench warrant for Rickard.

Robert D. Steffie Jr., 42, address not known; retail theft and conspiracy; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Amanda S. Weaver, 33, of 365 S. Wayne St., Orwigsburg; two counts each of simple assault and harassment and one of endangering the welfare of children; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Joseph R. Weigley, 42, of 204 St. John St., Schuylkill Haven; three counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, two of possession of a small amount of marijuana and one each of driving unregistered vehicle, driving without a license, seat belt violation and operating vehicle without valid inspection; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Defendants whose cases Ferrier considered on June 25, the charges against each one and the judge’s dispositions of the matter included the following people:

Brent A. Evans, 48, of 26 Hickory Court, Orwigsburg; driving under the influence, disregarding traffic lane, failure to yield, careless driving and failure to stop and give information; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Albert L. Goodman, 53, of 208 Dock St. Apt. 6, Schuylkill Haven; DUI, failure to obey traffic control devices, failure to keep right, driving the wrong way and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Richard R. Jefferson, 52, of 217 Paxson Ave., Schuylkill Haven; DUI, disregarding traffic lane and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Jack F. Kauffman, 56, of 128 Orchard St., Auburn; DUI, driving unregistered vehicle, operating vehicle without required financial responsibility, seat belt violation and operating vehicle without valid inspection; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges of operating vehicle without required financial responsibility, seat belt violation and operating vehicle without valid inspection withdrawn, other charges bound over for court.

Colton H. Love, 20, of 109 E. Spring St., Donaldson; DUI possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Douglas Miernicki, 42, of 113 Kansas Lane, Kulpmont; terroristic threats, simple assault and harassment; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Tyler B. Obas, 27, of 115 Moss St., Reading; simple assault, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Benjamin M. Rutherford, 28, of 25 S. Fourth St., Emmaus; five counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and one each of possession of a small amount of marijuana, DUI, speeding and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Mark Scheitrum, 32, of 515 Laurel Lane, Tamaqua; possession of drug paraphernalia, simple assault, resisting arrest, harassment and defiant trespass; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

(Staff writer Peter Bortner compiled this report)

A Berks County man is headed to federal prison for more than four decades after a judge sentenced him in Harrisburg for robbing four banks, including two in Schuylkill County, in 2015 and 2016, U.S. Attorney David J. Freed announced Thursday.

Derek Pelker, 29, of Reading, formerly of Wernersville, must serve 533 months in prison and pay $318,000 restitution, Senior U.S. District Judge Yvette Kane decided Wednesday.

Kane had presided over Pelker’s five-day jury trial, which ended on May 21, 2018, with him being convicted of four counts each of armed bank robbery and conspiracy and two counts each of brandishing a firearm and possession of a firearm by a felon. The jurors deliberated two days before reaching their verdict.

Federal authorities charged Pelker with robbing BB&T Bank, Valley View, about 10:30 a.m. Nov. 16, 2015, and Gratz Bank, Valley View, about 10:50 a.m. Jan. 14, 2016. In addition, they charged him with robbing Susquehanna Bank, East Prospect, on April 24, 2015, and M&T Bank, Lebanon, on April 5, 2016.

Police said Pelker used a handgun in each robbery in Valley View.

Two other men already are serving time in federal prison for participating in one of the Valley View robberies.

On June 13, 2018, Ryan Martin was sentenced to serve 100 months in prison for participating in both the BB&T Bank and Gratz Bank robberies.

On Dec. 17, 2018, Keith Pelker, Derek Pelker’s brother, was sentenced to spend 11 years in prison for participating in the Gratz Bank robbery, along with the one in Lebanon.

Six other people also went to prison for participating in either the East Prospect or Lebanon robbery.

The FBI Capital City Violent Crimes Task Force, Pennsylvania State Police, South Lebanon Township police and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force investigated the case, which was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Ford.

In addition, police from Hegins Township, Branch-Reilly Township, Tremont and Pine Grove, along with members of the Schuylkill County sheriff’s office, assisted in the investigation at the scenes of one or both of the Valley View robberies.

Prosecutors brought the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve in an effort to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer.

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

Defendant: Derek Pelker

Age: 29

Residence: Reading, formerly of Wernersville

Crimes committed: Four counts each of armed bank robbery and conspiracy and two counts each of brandishing a firearm and possession of a firearm by a felon

Prison sentence: 533 months

Deeds

Mahanoy City — Jose E. Paulino to Andreino D. Santos Rodriguez and Miguel A. Luna Marmol; 804 E. Centre St.; $35,500.

McAdoo — Thomas E. and Allyson A. Trella to Richard I. Bernstein Jr. and Troy Topolski; property on Adams Street; $18,000.

Minersville — Rita P. Hanley and William J. Paulosky Jr. to Rita P. Hanley and William J. Paulosky Jr.; 15 W. Carbon St.; $1.

New Philadelphia — Ronald J. and Isabelle Neifert to Joshua Yoder; 32 Valley St.; $1.

North Manheim Township — M. Ismail and H. Parwin Rahimi to Timothy T. Foose and Megan Heffron-Foose; 625 Stoney Run Road, Chestnut Hill; $230,000.

Porter Township — Kenneth Ray Bush and David Lamar Bush, co-executors of the Estate of Betty J. Bush, to David McCloskey; 419 Greenwood Road; $185,000.

Reilly Township — Robert Mayernick and Pearl Mayernick, co-executors of the Last Will & Testament of Robert A. Seiger, to Bradley T. and Karla J. Schwartz; 123 W. Pine St., Newtown; $159,000.

Washington Township — Belinda S. Shade to Belinda S. Shade and Anthony F. Wiscount IV; 5 Ferebee’s Road; $1.

Wrong name

Kameerah Roniece Able-Clark, Minersville, was arrested by Pottsville police after a strong arm robbery in Pottsville early Tuesday morning.

Able-Clark’s name was incorrect in Thursday’s edition.

In a career that has spanned over four decades, Bruce Hornsby has been consistent: he never slows down and never confines himself to one genre.

Over the years, Hornsby has ventured into bluegrass, jazz, classical and even electronica. With all of these genres — and after collaborations with artists such as Elton John, Eric Clapton, Don Henley and Chaka Khan under his belt — Hornsby will bring his talents to Northeast Pennsylvania this weekend.

Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers (his touring band for the past 20 years), will perform today, at the Event Center at Mount Airy Casino Resort, 312 Woodland Road, Mount Pocono. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the concert will begin at 8. Tickets cost $42 to $72, plus fees, and can be purchased by visiting mountairycasino.com.

Fans of Hornsby — a Virginia native whose career has amassed three Grammy Awards and 13 nominations, including best new artist — can expect the classic hits, like 1986’s multi-platinum “The Way It Is,” as well as selections from Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers’ latest album, “Absolute Zero.” The album, which was released this year, has a rock and folk sound and began through Hornsby’s collaborations with director Spike Lee. The two have been working together since 1992, with Hornsby scoring a number of Lee’s films, including 2012’s “Red Hook Summer.” As Hornsby wrote these cues — brief passages of music used in film — he saw the potential for more in these one to five-minute pieces.

“There always were certain cues that sounded like they wanted to be songs, wanted to be developed into something more than just cues, more than just tiny instrumentals setting moods for conversations in a film over dinner or whatever,” Hornsby said. “You just sculpt and shape the music accordingly.”

Shaping and sculpting music is nothing new for Hornsby. He’s always made it a priority that, as music evolves, he’d evolve with it. He keeps his music and his concerts fresh, for both himself and his audiences, whether they be seasoned fans or newcomers. And, according to Hornsby, a man full of surprises and dedicated to his craft, all they’ll need is a set of open ears.

“It’s always been about staying inspired, broadening my reach and range of abilities and influences, and exploring new areas,” Hornsby said. “I’m very fortunate to be able to do that, to be a lifelong student, and to continue to pursue a wide-ranging musical life.”

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

Coroner seeks help from family

NEW PHILADELPHIA — The Schuylkill County Coroner’s Office is looking for the next of kin for Jay Dubbs, 63, of 66 E. Pottsville St., Pine Grove, who died recently.

Family members or friends of Dubbs are asked to call Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner Albert Barnes at 570-691-6698.

Man charged in DUI-related crash

MAHANOY CITY — Mahanoy City police filed charges against a Mountain Top man stemming from an incident in the borough on May 25.

Police said Craig S. Babel, 56, of 1 Powell St., was charged with DUI-controlled substance and careless driving.

The charges are the result of a crash at the intersection of East Mahanoy Avenue and South Fourth Street where Babel was driving a vehicle that ran into the back of a stopped vehicle, driven by William Jones.

Police said Babel showed signs of being under the influence and was taken to an area hospital for a blood test.

Police said that test revealed that Babel was positive marijuana and for Zolpiderm.

Third Eye Blind lead singer Stephan Jenkins can’t wait to get to the Pavilion at Montage Mountain, where his band will share the stage with Jimmy Eat World for ALT 92.1’s ALTitude 2019.

Today, the Times-Shamrock Communications-spons­ored concert — which also features supporting acts Ra Ra Riot and Schuylkill County native Kulick — begins at 6 p.m. and gives Jenkins and company a chance to enjoy the perfect setting for a summer show, he said during a recent phone interview from Los Angeles.

“Playing someplace like Montage Mountain, it has this whole different energy to it,” Jenkins said. “There’s a kind of aliveness and vitality playing outside in the summer at night. To me, that’s like core to summer vibes.

“This tour, taking Jimmy Eat World and Ra Ra Riot, has kind of a festival-like vibe to it,” he added.

Hitting the road with like-minded bands that he’s a fan of also invites opportunities for impromptu collaborations throughout the night, Jenkins noted.

“We always have an open-door policy here at Third Eye Blind. ... We’ll see how is comes together,” he said. “I’ll definitely be sidestage watching the show.”

The collaborative spirit is extended to fans as well. Jenkins said he encourages those coming to the show to tweet him (@stephanjenkins on Twitter) with what they would like to hear that night. He’ll use their suggestions to build the Scranton set list, he promised.

“It’s quite a thing to put this catalog together for a set list,” Jenkins said, adding that by the time he rolls into town, his band also will have new music to draw from.

“I want it to be more interactive than in years past,” he said. “It’ll definitely be changed to what people are feeling in each place we play.”

Jenkins pointed out that this tour features a bigger stage setup, which naturally means more trucks to transport the additional equipment. Because of this, and an inquiry from a fan wondering if the band would make an effort to go carbon-neutral like Pearl Jam does, Third Eye Blind will employ carbon offsets to reduce the strain on the environment.

“Everyone knows we ban single-use plastic, and it saves a ton,” Jenkins said. “And we can’t have Pearl Jam beating us, so we said, ‘Yeah, we’ll look into it.’ ”

Through a partnership with ClimeCo, which buys and protects centuries-old giant Sequoia trees and land area in the Alaskan wilderness, Third Eye Blind effectively eliminates its carbon footprint on tour.

Aside from the feel-good nature of this environmental protection, Jenkins said he also gets a thrill from performing before scores of longtime listeners and newer fans alike. Playing live remains a fresh and positive experience even after years of touring, he said.

“I love the rhythm of it. We call it the circus. We pitch our tents and do our thing, and then we pack our tents up and roll on in to the next town in the night like pirates or something,” he said with a laugh.

Whenever someone asks if he gets sick of playing the same songs, the answer is always no, he added.

“You see this energy that happens on people’s faces, and I don’t know what it is about Third Eye Blind fans, but they’ve stayed 15 to 35 years old forever,” Jenkins said. “There’s this aliveness and freshness that just comes firing back at me, and I feel really bold. I feel really creative. I feel myself when I’m on stage.”

Each night from the stage, Jenkins said he watches as the outside world melts away for fans in the audience.

“Everybody comes in and you go to a concert, and you’re still bringing all of your troubles and daily cares and concerns with you,” he described. “And you get in your slot and maybe you’ve pushed up to the front so you’re kind of guarding your real estate, so you’re holding your space, and you don’t want anybody to step on your feet.

“And then what happens is the music makes you start to feel stuff. And you get taken over by these feelings, and you start to lift up out of yourself — and you’re doing this collectively — and everybody is feeling something together. And when they’re doing that, they know all the way down into their bodies they’re not alone.

“And when you’re doing that, your face changes,” Jenkins continued. “I see that change in people’s faces, where they’re really all the way there. And it’s always beautiful. That’s when people show me their true face. I see it, and I love it.”

Witnessing this transformation in the crowd before him keeps Jenkins grounded, he explained.

“I’m looking right at you when I play. For me, that’s the thing that makes the music transcend,” he said. “I’m incredibly present and interactive. I’m very sober with that exchange with the audience in that moment.”

Contact the writer: pwilding@timesshamro­ck.com; 570-348-9100, ext. 5369

Auburn

St. John’s Church, called “the church on the hill,” 200 Pearson St., will have its annual food and bake sale during the Auburn Community Yard Sale on Aug. 3. The church event will begin at 7 a.m. rain or shine. The church parking lot is available free for people wishing to set up a yard sale table, the only request being that people clean up at the end of the sale. For more information, email judyepting10@yahoo.com.

Frackville

A group called Frackville Public Spaces, according to a release, is working with the Frackville Recreation Board and the Frackville Area Public Library to host a Christmas in July basket auction on July 28 at the gymnasium in the Frackville Municipal & Community Center, 42 S. Center St. Doors will open at noon, with the drawing at 2 p.m. A shop-and-drop will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. July 27. There will be more than 100 baskets. A sheet of tickets is $5. People can by two sheets and get a free Yuengling pint glass. There will also be large prize tables, food and door prizes. Proceeds will benefit the community pool project. Prizes can be seen at the “Frackville Pool” Facebook page.

Lansford

The Music in the Park program for 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the gazebo in Kennedy Park adjacent to the Panther Valley School District Stadium will feature the M&J Big Band, a 20-piece group from Cressona playing music from the Big Band era. Refreshments will be on sale; people should bring chairs to enjoy the performance. The sponsor is the Lansford Alive Events Committee, which works for the revitalization of Kennedy Park.

Pine Grove

A concert by the Pine Grove Community Band will be held at 6 p.m. July 20 at the swimming pool end of the Pine Grove Union Canal, 44 E. Mill St. People should bring lawn chairs to enjoy the presentation. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-640-2328 or email fancyh@comcast.net.

Pottsville

An “Annie” youth theater camp, open to girls and boys in grades K-8, will be held beginning Monday, sponsored by the Pottsville Gymnastics Training Center Theater Program at the United Presbyterian Church Hall. Camp will be from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday. For registration information, email pottsvillegtctheater@gmail.com or go to Facebook: Pottsville GTC Theater Program.

Sheppton

The annual Sheppton-Oneida community yard sale will be held July 27 and all residents are welcome to participate for free. For anyone residing in East Union Township outside of the villages of Sheppton and Oneida who wants to participate, space is available for setup at the Sheppton Playground.

Tamaqua

Registration is underway for the baby food ministry by the Saint Vincent de Paul group of St. John XXIII Roman Catholic Parish. Free baby food will be given for babies up to age 1 at the church hall, 307 Pine St., from 9 to 11 a.m. on the third Saturday of the month by appointment only. Registration is required at least three days before distribution. People may register online at tamaquasvdp@outlook.com or by phone at 570-225-8620 from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays through Thursdays. The ministry is open to residents of the Tamaqua Area School District or members of Saint John XXIII parish.

Tremont

The Tremont Area Free Public Library’s Chinese auction will be held July 28 in the borough building, 139 Clay St. Doors will open at 11 a.m. and drawings will begin at 2 p.m. There will be a shop-and-drop from 1 to 4 p.m. July 27. The site, according to a release, is air conditioned and accessible to the handicapped. Refreshments will be available both days. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-695-3325 or email to tafpl@epix.net.