Police release crime information

The following information was released by Tamaqua police:

· Christopher J. Serina, 39, of Tamaqua, will face a count of possession of drug paraphernalia after officers found a hypodermic needle in his pocket at 6:10 p.m. July 25. An officer took him into custody on a warrant in the area of Pine and East Rowe streets when they made the discovery.

· Brad E. Welker, 38, of Tamaqua, took two batteries from a four pack from Family Dollar Store, 125 Center St., on July 25 and concealed them before attempting to pay for other items. A store employee confronted him and he said he would pay for the batteries. He was banned from the store and theft charge will be filed.

FOUNTAIN SPRINGS — The Ashland Area Rotary Club held a dinner meeting Thursday that included two members receiving Paul Harris Fellow awards.

Elaine Stone and Constance M. “Connie” Wydra, PDG, were the recipients, both of whom have received the award in the past. The meeting also included the induction of C. Kenneth Birster as a new member.

“We have a very special night tonight with our welcome to Kenneth as a new member and we have two Paul Harris awards presentations, one to Elaine and one to Connie,” club President Joann C. Birster told the group in her opening remarks.

District 7360 Assistant Gov. Charmaine Tetkoskie made the presentations of pins.

“It gives me great pleasure tonight to be able to honor you with Paul Harris awards,” Tetkoskie said. “It’s amazing to me how much you have given to Rotary.”

Wydra was honored with her eighth award, and Stone was honored for her third award. Wydra was presented a pin with two rubies for her eighth award, and Stone received a pin with two sapphires.

According to the Rotary International website, www.rotary.org, the Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.

Rotary established the recognition in 1957 to encourage and show appreciation for substantial contributions to what was then the foundation’s only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships.

Tetkoskie then performed the ceremony for the induction of C. Kenneth Birster.

“The principles, responsibilities and obligations of Rotary have been explained to you, and you have expressed your willingness to become a Rotarian,” Tetkoskie said. “No one is eligible to become a Rotarian unless, in his or her business or professional life, he or she endeavors to practice the principles of goodwill and service.”

Tetkoskie congratulated Birster and presented him with a membership pin.

Before the presentations, Joann Birster asked the group a question that relates to the 2019-20 Rotary theme of “Rotary Connects the World.”

“How do we connect as a group?” Birster asked. “We connect by talking to each other because Rotarians are considered leaders. Correct? How do we connect to the community? By the things we do for the community. If we are in the community, they should know that you are a Rotarian. And how would they know that? We wear that little pin on our shoulder. Does it not stick out when we are at events? And when we do attend an event, don’t we want to wear a Rotary shirt so they know who we are? We should be sticking out in the community so the community can connect with us. OK?”

Birster spoke of other signs of a Rotary presence in the community, such as the public benches sponsored by the club. She said that Rotary connections extend nationally and internationally through different projects. Tetkoskie added that local clubs can join together through matching grant programs.

“That’s the fun part of working together as a team,” Birster said.

For more than 114 years, Rotary members have been addressing challenges around the world.

Grassroots at the core, Rotary links 1.2 million members to form an organization of international scope. It started with the vision of one man — Paul Harris. The Chicago attorney formed the Rotary Club of Chicago on Feb. 23, 1905, so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas, form meaningful, lifelong friendships and give back to their communities.

Rotary’s name came from the group’s early practice of rotating meetings among the offices of its members.

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

Deeds

Ashland — Elva Joan Lentes to Robert L. Lentes and Mark A. Lentes; 1729 Walnut St.; $1.

U.S. Bank Trust NA to Stephanie Markota; 1934 Market St.; $12,000.

Coaldale — Danielle Billetz-Reppert and James A. Reppert to Logan Eltringham; 227 W. Ruddle St.; $45,000.

ABZ Enterprises Inc. to Chad Raudabaugh; property at Sixth Street and Howard Avenue; $17,500.

Deer Lake — Elizabeth A. Eich to Diane Bzura and Ralf Bzura, trustees of the Bzura Family Trust; 417 Fern Road; $240,000.

East Brunswick Township — John Kutza to Eugene R. and Jessica L. Woll; 1414 Reddale Road; $280,000.

East Union Township — Eagle Rock Resort Co. to Cesar M. and Novelyn D. Vito; Lot 124ER, Eagle Rock; $86,393.38.

Frackville — Joel J. and Amy M. Digris to Donna L. Godsell; property on Railroad Avenue; $36,500.

Karen A. Corrigan to Karen A. Corrigan; 24 N. Center St.; $1.

Mahanoy City — Real Capital Group LLC to Cape Builders LLC; 532 W. South St.; $3,550.

Annmarie and Jacob R. McAdams to Annmarie McAdams; 1236 E. Market St.; $1.

McAdoo — Christine Bittner, executrix of the Estate of Robert Greybush Jr., to Isaias Montilla and Maria E. Paulino; 317 W. Sherman St.; $12,500.

Minersville — Emil Rizzi III, by attorney in fact for Emil C. Rizzi, to Emil C. Rizzi and Emil Rizzi III; 423 N. Delaware Ave.; $1.

North Union Township — Eagle Rock Resort Co. to Ariet Louis M. and Rae Angelica T. Nacita; Lot 85E, Eagle Rock; $42,319.

James E. IV and Barbara A. Guy to Matthew Skotek Jr.; 220 Davos Circle, Zion Grove; $142,000.

Port Carbon — Albert Norkus and Lynda Crighton to Michele L. Peleschak; 239 Third St.; $225,000.

Pottsville — John F. Samay, executor of the Estate of Charles T. Phillips, to Hahner Property Management LLC; 2075 King Ave.; $77,000.

Thomas F. and Judith M. Williams to Thomas J. Williams; 1949 Howard Ave.; $1.

Alissa M. Wagner to Dylan R. Cruz; 707 Pierce St.; $56,000.

Saint Clair — Bruce T. Hart and Joshua B. Hart to Paul and Amy Strauss; property on Fernwood Avenue; $35,000.

Schuylkill Township — Helen M. Dougherty and Mary Rose Dougherty to Matthew Stahler; property on Walnut Street, Tuscarora; $1,000.

Real Capital Group LLC to Allal Marouani; 149 School St., MaryD; $8,000.

West Mahanoy Township — Jamie Gennarini to Miguel R. Rosario Rodriguez; property on Schuylkill Avenue, Shenandoah Heights; $15,000.

Jeffrey and Shannon Sterner to Jeffrey Sterner; 196 Florida Ave., Shenandoah Heights; $1.

F. Daniel Subalusky to Gregory J. and Marietta C. Tsukalas; property on Spencer Street, Altamont; $27,000.

West Penn Township — Kevin A. Hoffman to Jonathan W. Mager; 2003 West Penn Pike; $82,900.

Allyn P. Mock to Matthew and Tamara Tirpak; 687 Pine Hill Road, Andreas; $158,000.

George LaPolice to Andrew and Nathalie A. Werst; 560 Hemlock Road; $257,000.

POTTSVILLE — Children and adults volunteered to stuff 1,625 backpacks Monday for Schuylkill United Way’s Stuff the Bus campaign.

Held at the Pottsville Salvation Army, at least 75 volunteers from organizations and businesses filled the bags with school supplies and distributed them Monday to children.

“Are we going to pack all of those?” Abraham Greenly, 7, of Lansford, Carbon County, asked the crowd.

Greenly has volunteered to help since he was about 3 years old.

Students who receive services from the Schuylkill United Way partner agencies are eligible to receive a backpack with supplies while some school districts in the county will also give away backpacks from the effort. Twelve of the United Way’s partner agencies received backpacks that included hand sanitizer, scissors, folders, a notebook, pencils, a pencil pouch, crayons, pens, an eraser, glue sticks, a highlighter, ruler and dry erase marker.

Those who are not receiving services through any of the agencies, but are still in need, may contact the Pottsville Salvation Army at 570-622-5252 to be placed on a waiting list. This year, there were 45 sites — up from 22 in 2018 — in the county for the donation boxes, something Kelly Malone, director of the Schuylkill United Way, said helped out in the effort. Boxes were distributed in June. Items were received July 31.

Malone said the generosity of the community helps students “start the year on the same foot as everybody else,” which is important for the success of the students.

Melissa Latham, Lansford, a caseworker and program coordinator with the Tamaqua Salvation Army who volunteered Monday, agreed the bookbag distribution helps the children “get an extra foot in the door for school.”

Parents or caregivers can have unexpected expenses that occur that make it difficult to buy the supplies students need, she said.

Envoy Brad Harris of the Salvation Army of Pottsville said the backpacks alleviate stress parents can experience during the start of the school year.

“This helps keep the burden off parents,” and “brings joy” to the children when they receive the gift.

Major Gayle Luby, with the Tamaqua Salvation Army, agreed the backpacks are a “big help” to the children.

Carter Morrison, 8, of Pottsville, was excited to help out for the first time.

“Some kids really need things for school,” he said.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

James R. Ferrier

ORWIGSBURG — A Lehigh County man is headed to Schuylkill County Court after waiving his right to a preliminary hearing on July 30 on charges resulting from a police chase in September 2018 in West Penn Township.

Anthony J. Morgan, 30, of 2008 Vine St. Apt. 1, Allentown, faces charges of fleeing or eluding police, false identification to law enforcement, driving under suspension, operating vehicle without valid inspection and improper display of plate or card. Magisterial District Judge James R. Ferrier bound over those charges for court after Morgan waived his right to the hearing.

Prosecutors withdrew charges of recklessly endangering another person and reckless driving.

West Penn Township police alleged that Morgan fled from a traffic stop around 11 a.m. Sept. 7, 2018, at Leiby’s Restaurant, routes 309 and 443, South Tamaqua.

Police said they had stopped Morgan, who was driving a black Honda Civic, and another motorist. Morgan and the other motorist started arguing during the stop, according to police.

During the stop, police said Morgan gave them a false name and then drove off. Police said they chased Morgan but eventually stopped doing so.

Additionally, according to police, Morgan had a suspended license and the car had no valid inspection.

After waiving his right to the hearing, Morgan returned to prison, where he is being held in lieu of $10,000 straight cash bail pending further court proceedings.

Other defendants whose cases Ferrier considered on July 30, the charges against each one and the judge’s dispositions of the matters included the following people.

James W. Descano, 31, of 1547 W. Walnut St., possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under the influence, obscured plates, improper driving without lights and no rear lights; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Addison J. Hummel, 25, of 1733 Walnut St., Ashland; possession of drug paraphernalia; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge bound over for court.

J. George Logothetides, 19, of 1316 W. Norwegian St., Pottsville; DUI, speeding and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

(Staff writer Peter E. Bortner compiled this report)

POTTSVILLE — A Girardville man sits in state prison after a Schuylkill County judge recently sentenced him for possessing drugs in August 2018 in Frackville.

Kyle A. Rockwell, 32, must serve nine to 24 months in a state correctional institution, President Judge William E. Baldwin decided.

Baldwin also sentenced Rockwell to pay costs, a $425 fine, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and $176 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Harrisburg.

Rockwell pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance and driving without a license. Prosecutors withdrew charges of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Frackville police charged Rockwell with possessing drugs and driving without his license on Aug. 9, 2018.

Baldwin also recently sentenced Cassandra D. Duffy, 39, of Frackville, to serve three to 23 months in prison, pay costs, a $50 CJEA payment and $21.49 restitution, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Duffy pleaded guilty to retail theft, with prosecutors withdrawing a charge of receiving stolen property. Frackville police had charged Duffy with committing the theft on Nov. 9, 2018, in the borough.

In another recent case, Robert C. Ryerson, 45, of Minersville, pleaded guilty to possession of drug paraphernalia and disorderly conduct. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of defiant trespass.

Baldwin placed Ryerson on probation for 12 months, and also sentenced him to pay costs, a $25 fine, a $100 SAEF payment and a $50 CJEA payment, and perform 10 hours community service.

State police at Frackville charged Ryerson with possessing paraphernalia and behaving in a disorderly manner on March 31, 2018.

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

Police: 2 conspired to steal products

HOMETOWN — Rush Township police charged two women with retail theft after a June 3 incident at the Walmart store.

Police said Suzanne Arapi, 32, of Hazle Township, and Larissa Rapach, 32 of Drums, were each charged with retail theft and conspiracy and will now have to answer before Magisterial District Judge Stephen J. Bayer, Tamaqua.

Police said the two conspired to steal merchandise.

Police, marshals arrest 3 fugitives

TREMONT — Tremont police, in cooperation with the United States Marshals and Pennsylvania State Police Fugitive Task Force, took three people into custody on fugitive warrants.

Taken into custody in the 100 block of West Laurel Street were:

· Lisa Scheibley, wanted on a warrant from Schuylkill County.

· Angela Sattizahn, wanted on an outstanding warrant from Lebanon County.

· Corey Leininger, taken into custody for absconding state parole.

Police thanked the marshals and state police for their involvement in the incident, calling it “a solid example of federal, state and local law enforcement working together.”

Man arrested for stealing package

ASHLAND — Ashland police charged a man with theft stemming from an incident at 1306 Centre St. in the borough around 1:10 p.m. July 16.

Police said Joseph D. Gavalis, 55, LKA 165 Main St., Wernersville, was charged with theft and receiving stolen property.

Police charged Gavalis with stealing a package containing children’s books from a porch that was delivered by UPS.

Several hours later, police said, Gavalis was identified and located to the rear of 1201 Walnut St. When asked about the package, police said, Gavalis led officers to the area of Ninth and Chestnut streets, where he tossed the package.

Police investigate pool hall break-in

ASHLAND — Ashland police are investigating a burglary that happened at Gal’s Pool Hall between 2:30 and 10:13 a.m. July 24.

Police said someone entered the business by breaking a window on the side of the building and stealing about $30 from a cash register before fleeing.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at either 570-875-2600 or 570-462-1991.

Police charge man for vehicle theft

ASHLAND — An Ashland man was charged by borough police after an incident at 1900 Walnut St. around 5:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Police said Michael A. Flickinger, 25, of 1902 Centre St., was charged with theft and receiving stolen property.

Police charged Flickinger with stealing a Polaris Trailboss, an off-road vehicle, from the yard of 1900 Walnut St.

Residents of the home discovered the theft and police said review of security video in the area identified Flickinger as the person responsible.

He will now have to answer to the charges against him before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville.

Police investigate 1-vehicle crash

TUSCARORA — State police at Frackville are investigating a crash that happened at the intersection of Route 209 and Route 1001 in Schuylkill Township around 1:50 p.m. Friday.

Police said Thomas D. Owen, 65, of Cumbola, was driving a 2010 Chevrolet Colorado south on Route 209 when he tried to turn right onto Route 1001, went off the road and struck a guide rail.

Police did not say if Owen was injured but did say he will be cited for driving at an unsafe speed as a result of the crash.

Vehicle damaged by criminal mischief

GIRARDVILLE — State police at Frackville are investigating a criminal mischief incident that happened on Main Street between 7 a.m. July 29 and noon Saturday.

Police said someone damaged the front of a vehicle by making numerous scratches on the hood and front passenger’s side.

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

WILLIAMSPORT — The Schuylkill Conservation District is the 2019 recipient of the “Leadership Excellence Award” presented by the Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission at a conference in Williamsport.

The annual award is presented to a conservation district board that provides a well-articulated, relevant and implemented mission addressing natural resource challenges and opportunities within the county; demonstrates exemplary leadership and service to the community; continuously supports and evaluates professional management and leadership and demonstrates a commitment to excellence in effective management, accountability, oversight, and stewardship of the conservation district.

PSCC Executive Secretary Karl G. Brown presented the award to SCD board Chairman Glenn Luckenbill and District Manager Jenna St. Clair during the Joint Annual Conference of the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts and the State Conservation Commission on July 17 at the Genetti Hotel and Suites, Williamsport.

“I’m not sure who nominated us for the award,” St. Clair said. “I was contacted by the PSCC and I was told about being selected for that award. It may have been that we were just selected by the state conservation commission. They have been highly involved in what we’ve been doing.”

St. Clair was not aware if the district has received the award in the past.

The Schuylkill Conservation District has experienced rapid growth in programming and staff in response to emerging resource needs and funding opportunities with the guidance and support of its board of directors, according to the media release. Since 1955, the district has evolved from an emphasis on soil conservation to one of all natural resource conservation efforts, including erosion and sediment control, watershed protection, abandoned mine land remediation, environmental education, farmland preservation, farm conservation planning, outdoor recreation, flood mitigation, streambank stabilization, nutrient management, and vector and invasive species control.

St. Clair spoke of how the district has expanded its environmental mission since its founding in 1955.

“Conservation districts had a big focus on agriculture at that time,” she said. “Not that we still don’t have that, it is amazing everything we’re dealing with.”

The conservation district has taken the action and responsibility needed to implement programs and projects to improve Schuylkill County with leadership and discretion. The district has demonstrated a commitment to management, accountability, and oversight by creating an extensive, practical financial policy with a high level of board engagement to ensure due diligence and sound financial management. This policy has been used as an example and learning tool for districts across the state.

With momentous growth and change, the district developed and adopted a strategic plan for 2020-25. The new plan identifies future natural resource issues of the county and the operational needs of the district to address those issues. The board of directors has demonstrated the innovation, leadership, and passion needed to further the mission and vision of Schuylkill Conservation District.

The district will mark its 65th anniversary in 2020 and planning is underway for the release of the strategic plan and other activities to mark this anniversary.

“We just wrapped up the strategic plan and the final copy was approved by the board,” St. Clair said. “We started working on some things contained in it, but we’ll be rolling it out to go along with our 65th anniversary.”

During the conference, other awards were presenteed, including the Conservation District Employee Service Recognition Program Award, which recognizes conservation district employees for their years of dedication to conserving Pennsylvania’s natural resources. Chesapeake Bay Program Coordinator Martie Hetherington for Schuylkill County was recognized for 30 years of service.

“She started with the district in 1989,” St. Clair said. “She was not able to attend the conference, so on Aug. 20, we have our district awards and we will present her with that 30-year pin. She is a staff member here and has been working with the Chesapeake Bay Program mostly through DEP (state Department of Environmental Protection), at least in recent years.”

For more information about the work of the state’s 66 conservation districts, visit www.pacd.org, and for more information about the Schuylkill Conservation District, contact Jenna St. Clair at 570-622-3742, Ext. 3335 or jstclair@co.schuylkill.pa.us. Follow Schuylkill Conservation District on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

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

Frackville

The Frackville Area Free Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorials: For John Teijaro from Karen and Bryan Yeager and Pamela and Allen Breemes; for Marge Rench from Joan Farrell and Rachel Kulengosky; for Lorraine Stanton from John and Suzanne Domalakes; for Jean Sleva from John and Suzanne Domalakes; for Helen Wayne from Karen Corrigan and Jeanette Roscoe.

Girardville

The annual block party by Girard Hose Company No. 1, 120 E. Main St., will be held from 3 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, featuring homemade ethnic food, beverages, live entertainment, games for children and adults and an apparatus parade at 7 p.m. Saturday. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-590-5304.

Lansford

The Music in the Park program will feature the Munoz Brothers of Philadelphia, originally from Hometown, from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the gazebo in Kennedy Park adjacent to the Panther Valley School District Stadium. The event is free; refreshments will be on sale. People are welcome to bring chairs to enjoy the entertainment. The sponsor is the Lansford Alive Events Committee, which works for revitalization of the park.

Pine Grove

Music in the Grove at 118 N. Tulpehocken St. will feature bluegrass, Gospel and worship sounds by Set Free and Shanna Crum from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 17. All are welcome; soft drinks and ice cream will be available; admission is free. The event sponsor is Martin Carpentry Inc. People are invited to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the performances.

Pottsville

The Pottsville Free Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorial donations: For Marcella V. Shovlin from Louise and Bob Wachter; for Barbara E. Fernando from Louise and Bob Wachter; for Mrs. Kathryn Case from Dan and Maggie Kelly; for Mary Spehrley from Kay Gauthier, Pat Moyer, Dina Wieczynski and Alexa Wieczynski; for Richard Hallick Sr. from Margaret Ebling; for Rosalie Lehrman from Steve Lilienthal, Diane Fiorillo; for Edith Yuengling from Steve Lilienthal; for Elizabeth Jefferson from the Horn family.

Pottsville

A dog adoption fair is set for 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 22 at the Barefield Outdoor Recreation Complex, 823 Terry Reiley Way. The Pottsville Area High School Mini-Thon and the Hillside SPCA have joined for the event to help dogs find “forever homes,” according to an event release. For more information, go online to https://www.pottsvillehousing.net/rentals/outdoor-complex

Pottsville

The Pottsville Public Library, 215 W. Market St., will have a used book sale sponsored by the Friends of the Library support group from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 17. All are welcome.

Schuylkill Haven

A Carnival of Hope to advance breast cancer awareness will be held at Penn State Schuylkill, 200 University Drive, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 9 on the campus mall walk. There will be a dunk tank, pie-in-the-face contest, carnival of games, prizes, basket raffles and other activities. It is free and open to the public. All money raised will benefit the Pennsylvania Breast Coalition, according to an event release. For more information, call 570-385-6059.

Shenandoah

The Pine Grove Area High School ROTC and Don Brown will have a Power Point presentation at 6 p.m. today during a meeting of the Greater Shenandoah Area Historical Society at the society’s 201 S. Main St. history center. The local ROTC was in Normandy, France, for the 75th anniversary of the World War II D-Day invasion. The public is welcome to attend. There is no admission fee and refreshments will be served. For more information, email society President Andrea Pytak at ampytak@netzero.net.

Tamaqua

A concert of Gospel music by the Lumber River Quartet is set for 7 p.m. Aug. 22 at Lewistown Valley Tabernacle, 614 Valley Road. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-617-2702.

POTTSVILLE — As he was running from the scene of an incident that has landed him at least temporarily in prison, Christopher J. Rojas yelled that he had injured the other participant, a witness testified Monday at the defendant’s preliminary hearing.

“ ‘I stabbed him! I stabbed him!’ ” Rojas allegedly yelled while Owen Kelly was lying in the street, William Heister said during the 30-minute hearing over which Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley presided.

Heister said Rojas then fled from the scene.

At the end of the hearing, Reiley ruled prosecutors had presented enough evidence to support all six charges against Rojas and ordered them held for court. He kept Rojas’ bail at $100,000 straight cash, and the defendant returned to prison wearing the same prison jumpsuit, belt, handcuffs and leg shackles he wore through the hearing.

While Rojas neither testified nor offered any other evidence during Monday’s hearing, he did attempt to interrupt the proceedings twice.

“That’s false,” he said once to Kelly while the alleged victim was testifying.

“Mr. Rojas, keep your comments to yourself,” Reiley warned the defendant.

Prosecutors have charged Rojas, 17, of Pottsville, as an adult with attempted homicide, aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and possessing an instrument of crime.

Pottsville police have alleged Rojas stabbed Kelly, 18, of Pottsville, just after 8 p.m. July 12 at North George and East Norwegian streets in the city.

“How many times did he stab you,” Assistant District Attorney Claude A.L. Shields asked Kelly.

“More than once,” Kelly answered.

“Did you bleed?”

“Yes.”

“You’re positive that the guy who stabbed you is here today?”

“Yes.”

“You wanted to avoid a fight?”

“Yes.”

When cross-examined by Adam R. Weaver, Lehighton, Rojas’ lawyer, Kelly said he had a brick and a piece of blacktop in his hand, but maintained he dropped them before going to talk with the defendant. He also said they had bad blood between them.

“We both threatened each other with knives,” a few days before this incident, Kelly said.

However, he denied that he once held a Bowie knife to Rojas’ throat.

Pottsville police Detective Joseph R. Welsh, the prosecuting officer and the only other witness, testified the incident still is under investigation and there are two videos of it. He did not play either, but said one shows Rojas making stabbing motions toward Kelly.

Shields declined to comment on the case after the hearing. Weaver would say only that he might ask the court not to allow Rojas to be tried as an adult.

“We’ll be exploring juvenile options,” he said.

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

Christopher J. Rojas

Age: 17

Residence: Pottsville

Charges: Attempted homicide, aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and possessing instrument of crime

A Klingerstown man was jailed Sunday, charged by state police at Schuylkill Haven with attacking his brother with a machete.

Police said Noah Vitrano, 35, of 124 Main St., was arrested by Trooper Joshua Knepp and charged with two felony counts of aggravated assault, one misdemeanor count each of simple assault and recklessly endangering another person and a summary offense of harassment.

He was arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, and committed to Schuylkill County Prison in lieu of $50,000 straight cash bail.

Knepp said police were notified at 5:04 a.m. by Sandy Lear, who said her son, Noah Vitrano, attacked her other son, Joshua Vitrano, 33, during a domestic incident at their home.

Lear reported that Noah Vitrano entered the house yelling at his brother for having sex with his girlfriend.

Knepp reported that Lear said she heard Noah Vitrano speaking with his girlfriend on the telephone and then walking with a machete toward the basement where Joshua Vitrano was sleeping.

Lear said she heard yelling, then Joshua Vitrano yelling for help and saw Noah Vitrano come up from the basement.

Knepp said Lear reported yelling at Noah Vitrano to leave his brother alone, at which time he left the home.

Lear then said she saw Joshua Vitrano with numerous lacerations on his body and that her older son had been in a barn behind their house. It was there, Knepp said, a black handle machete was found with blood on the blade.

When interviewed, Joshua Vitrano reported being asleep and then being struck by his brother with an unknown object and felt pain. Joshua Vitrano realized he was bleeding after being struck with the large machete. Joshua Vitrano suffered lacerations to his left foot, back, elbow and left arm, all consistent with defensive injuries, Knepp said.

Noah Vitrano was taken into custody Sunday afternoon in Klingerstown, Knepp said.

Joshua Vitrano was taken to Geisinger Medical Center, Sunbury, for treatment of injuries he suffered in the attack.

Noah Vitrano will now have to answer to the charges against him at a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge David J. Rossi, Tremont.

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

POTTSVILLE — A man was jailed charged by Pottsville police with assaulting a local police officer, a physician and an emergency medical technician Sunday night.

Police Chief Richard F. Wojciechowsky said officers were called to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill E. Norwegian Street around 9 p.m. for a report of a combative person.

Outside the hospital, three Pottsville officers as well as a Mahanoy Township officer had to engage in a physical altercation with Gerald Patrick Helms, 41, of Pottsville.

The chief said Helms ignored officers’ verbal commands and initiated a “violent physical altercation” with uniformed officers, who were eventually able to get him under control and place him in custody.

Patrolman Branden Jones, the investigating officer, learned that prior to the arrival of Pottsville police, Helms initiated an assault on the Mahanoy Township officer and the EMS who attempted to subdue him.

Wojciechowsky said the Mahanoy Township officer used his Taser weapon in an unsuccessful attempt to stop Helms’ violent actions but the man continued to aggressively fight with the officer and EMT as Pottsville police were notified and responded.

Jones also later learned that Helms had assaulted a physician from the facility during the incident as well, the chief said.

As a result of the incident, Jones charged Helms with three counts each of aggravated assault, simple assault and attempted aggravated assault as well as two counts of criminal mischief for damage to the officers’ equipment.

Helms was arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, and committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $50,000 straight cash bail.

He will now have to appear for a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley in his Pottsville courtroom.

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

OBPA focusing set for Farm/Square

ORWIGSBURG — Liz Tuturice, with the Orwigsburg Business and Professional Association Events Committee, said in a release the association is ready for Farm to Square 2019, to be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday on the Orwigsburg Square.

She said the association has been working to produce two large-scale quality events for the community this year, and Farm to Square is “a returning favorite.”

“Last year this event had over 30 vendors including wineries, breweries … community organizations/businesses, food trucks, local restaurants and family friendly activities and music,” Tuturice said, adding nearly 500 people attended the 2018 event.

The Orwigsburg Heritage Day celebration will mark its 28th year in 2019 and is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 7 on the square. She said it is a time change from previous years.

Heritage Day will include two live bands, vendors, food trucks, wineries, restaurants, breweries, children’s activities, demonstrations, community organizations/businesses and other entertainment for all ages.

In 2018, Tuturice said, “We had nearly 75 different vendors spread through the town and hope to make this year even larger. We saw nearly 2,000 people that day (in 2018).”

For more on OBPA, 209 N. Warren St, email orwigsburgbusinesspa@gmail.com or go to on Facebook: Orwigsburg Business and Professional Association.

Seltzer Group Partner of Year

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — The Seltzer Group has announced it has been named the 2019 Pennsylvania Keystone Partner of the Year.

The award, according to a Seltzer release, is based off a variety of performance evaluations, which include favorable growth with core carriers, preparing the next generation of leadership now, leading change in technology advancements, engaging strategic and marketing planning to guide and evaluate business decisions, employing best practices to continually improve the operations of the business and team, brand adoption and overall growth and profitability.

Founded in 1983, Keystone Insurers Group Inc. began “when four independent insurance agencies rallied together to broaden their experience and expertise. They worked off the ideology that independent insurance agencies could offer a broader variety of specialized programs and better serve their clients if they teamed up to form an overarching organization,” according to the release.

KIG has grown to operate as the third largest agency partnership in the United States with more than 270 agency partners and has placed more than $3.2 billion in insurance premium. The Seltzer Group was a charter member of KIG and still proudly operates as a partner, according to the release.

In addition to being named Partner of the Year, The Seltzer Group is also now in the running for the National Partner of the Year, which will be announced at the National Conference in September.

For more information about The Seltzer Group and its history, go to its website at www.seltzergrp.com.

Pioneer Day set

for Aug. 17

ASHLAND — Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train will host its 27th annual Pioneer Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 17.

This year’s event will be a celebration of Pioneer Tunnel’s 57th anniversary as a tourist attraction.

In addition to its coal mine tours and steam train rides, the event will include entertainment by the Breaker Boys and other live performers.

People will be able to enjoy food, crafts and games provided by vendors. Organizers in a release invited people to “bring a lawn chair and enjoy the day.”

St. Luke’s ranks as ‘high performing’

BETHLEHEM — According to the US News & World Report 2019 hospital rankings, St. Luke’s University Hospital-Bethlehem is “high performing” in 12 adult specialties, procedures and conditions, according to a St. Luke’s press release.

Donna Sabol, St. Luke’s vice president and chief quality officer, said in the release the facility is “proud” of the recognition, adding, “This adds to the extensive list of honors St. Luke’s has received in the past year — IBM Watson Health 100 Top Hospital, Newsweek ‘World’s Best’ Hospital and Leap Frog Top Hospital as well as the region’s only five- and four-star ratings from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.”

US News & World Report, according to the release, rated St. Luke’s “high performing” in the adult specialties of geriatrics, orthopedics and pulmonology,” as well as the following procedures and conditions: Abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, aortic valve surgery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, colon cancer surgery, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, hip replacement, knee replacement, lung cancer surgery.

The St. Luke’s Health Network’s service area includes Lehigh, Northampton, Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Montgomery, Monroe, Schuylkill and Luzerne counties in Pennsylvania and Warren and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey.

RETTEW announces leader succession

LANCASTER — RETTEW, a firm that began provide civil engineering and surveying services in 1969, has announced that Clayton Bubeck, PE, senior vice president and CMO, will be promoted to president effective Sept. 1 and Mark Lauriello, PE, will continue as chief executive officer, according to a RETTEW release. Lauriello held the position of president since 2004 and CEO since 2016.

Bubeck started his career in RETTEW’s regional offices in Schuylkill County before leading the company’s entry into the oil and gas market, according to the release, which added that Bubeck and Lauriello will work closely to ensure a smooth transition.

“I’m honored and thrilled by the opportunity to lead RETTEW into the next chapter of its 50-year history,” Bubeck said in the release, adding that Lauriello “has set a high standard of leadership here. He consistently delivers outstanding performance and has built a strong foundation for long-term growth.”

As president, Bubeck will be responsible for both top-line revenue and bottom-line profit for the company, according to the release. He will maintain his role in guiding the firm’s strategic business development efforts in its focus markets, while also working with the COO and regional managers to drive the growth and profitability of 13 service areas and three geographic regions.

Bubeck will also oversee the firm’s Associates and Principals programs.

Lauriello said in the release Bubeck “has played an instrumental role in the transformation and growth of our company during the past 19 years.

The leadership transition, according to the release, “comes at an opportune time for RETTEW, with the firm’s recent move to becoming a 100 percent employee-owned company.”

Bubeck graduated from Wilkes University with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering and now is a licensed Professional Engineer in 24 states, according to the RETTEW release. He has more than 20 years of managerial and technical experience, including the design of two award-winning abandoned mine drainage treatment systems. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Greater Philadelphia Energy Action Team and the National Water Environment Federation. He is a recent graduate of ACEC’s Senior Executive Institute and received a certificate from the Wharton School of Executive Education at the University of Pennsylvania.

RETTEW, ranked on Engineering News-Record’s 2019 list of top design firms, according to the release. Today it has more than 350 employees and 11 offices located in Allentown, Conshohocken, Lancaster, Mechanicsburg, Pittsburgh, State College and Williamsport, Pennsylvania, as well as in Ohio, West Virginia and Colorado. For more information on any of RETTEW’s services, call 800-738-8395 or go online to www.rettew.com.

Tree-climbing school on tap

STATE COLLEGE — Penn State Extension is offering Advanced Tree-Climbing School, a two-day, hands-on training for people who have tree-climbing experience and have a desire to learn more about the skills and safety of advanced tree climbing.

The school will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 24 and 25 at Sunset Park, 850 McKee St., State College. The fee for both days is $325, according to an event release.

Advanced Tree Climbing Stationary Rope Systems candidates are required to have a minimum of 18 months tree-climbing experience, preferably in a work environment.

Enrollment can be done online at extension.psu.edu/advanced-tree-climbing-school or by calling 877-345-0691.

Penn State Extension is a modern educational organization dedicated to translating scientific research into real-world applications to drive progress, according to an extension release.

In support of Penn State’s land-grant mission, extension programs promote a vibrant food and fiber system, a clean environment and a healthier population for Pennsylvania and beyond.

Penn State Extension “serves individuals, businesses and communities, helping them address problems and realize opportunities through a robust portfolio of educational programs, products and services,” according to the release.

The organization has support from federal, state and county governments and has a “tradition of bringing unbiased information and support to the citizens of Pennsylvania for more than 100 years.”

LionLaunch aids business startup

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

And now, LionLaunch sessions have gone on the road with gatherings held in Coaldale and set to go in Shenandoah in conjunction with the Small Business Administration, according to a LionLaunch flier.

LionLaunch, according to a release, is part of the university’s statewide initiative, Invent Penn State, aimed at spurring economic growth throughout Pennsylvania. With the support of community partners, LionLaunch is helping Schuylkill County entrepreneurs and business professionals find resources and information needed to become successful, according to the release.

The local LionLaunch Innovation Hub is at 154 E. Main St., Schuylkill Haven.

LionLaunch is participating with the effort by the revitalization group Downtown Shenandoah Inc. to establish a multimillion-dollar innovation hub in the 100 block of North Main Street, an effort that has been lauded by local and state officials.

Susan Williams is the LionLaunch program coordinator and is based at 119 Administration Building on the Penn State Schuylkill Campus. She can be reached via email at sxw831@psu.edu or by calling 570-385-6065.

LionLaunch’s community partners include the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, Schuylkill Economic Development Corp., Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association, Schuylkill County’s VISION, Berks-Schuylkill SCORE and the Pottsville Area Development Corp.

· Let’s Do Lunch with the Experts sessions have gone on the road with the Small Business Administration. A complimentary session (no fee but registration is required) is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 29 at Francesco’s Restaurant and Pizzeria, 10 N. Main St., Shenandoah, with lunch sponsored by the revitalization group Downtown Shenandoah Inc. Shannon DeGiglio of the SBA will provide resources that will make an impact on a small business owner’s journey to success, according to an event flier. She’ll cover how to find possible resources for funding, cover the Five Cs of Credit, why a credit score matters and what is required for a loan application.

· Lunch presentations on the agenda also include the following: Aug. 19, “Hit that Target: Identifying Your Target Audience,” at Penn State Schuylkill, presented by Aimee Eckley, interactive media director at The Republican-Herald; Sept. 16, “Protect Your Ideas: Everything You Need to Know about IP,” at the Walk In Art Center, Schuylkill Haven, presented by Rachel Herder, intellectual property attorney, Penn State University; Oct. 21, “Create A Vision Board for Goal Setting,” at Penn State Schuylkill, presented by Tina Rose, coordinator of career development and internships, Penn State Schuylkill.

· A Supervision Essentials series certificate course aimed at improving management skills has spring and summer sessions on tap with two eight-week sessions via Penn State Schuylkill Campus. Email or call Williams for more information.

So far, LionLaunch has helped start 18 new businesses in Schuylkill County and awarded $63,000 in seed money to entrepreneurs, according to the flier.

Chamber updates events listings

POTTSVILLE — The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce has several upcoming sessions on its agenda. People may register for all chamber programs online at www.schuylkillchamber.com or by calling 570-622-1942. The chamber and the SEDCO/chamber conference center are at Union Station, 1 Progress Circle, Suite 201, Pottsville, PA 17901.

· The Business After 5 O’clock Mixer will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 7 at The Crimson House, 118 N. Centre St., Pottsville.

· Work Smarter not Harder, by the Schuylkill chamber’s nonprofit committee, will be held from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Friday at the chamber headquarters in Union Station, Pottsville. It involves how to make the most of a nonprofit’s volunteerism, technology, staff recruitment and finances. Presenters will be Tiffany Cresswell-Yeager, Ph.D., assistant professor of higher education leadership at Gwynedd Mercy University; Trey Hook, account manager for Aerotek and Douglas Long, manager of marketing and development at Helping Harvest.

· Pour Tour, From Farm to Glass, sponsored by the chamber agribusiness committee, is set of Aug. 17 with a 9:30 a.m. depart from Union Station, Pottsville, and a 4 p.m. return. Tickets are $35 each and include lunch; people must be 21 or older to attend. Tour guide will be Patrick M. “Porcupine Pat” McKinney, environmental education coordinator with the Schuylkill Conservation District. Stops will include D.G. Yuengling & Son Inc., Pioneer Evergreen Farms, Jersey Acres Farms/Stone Mountain Winery. Goody bags will be provided by Mauch Chunk Trust Co. Attendees must wear completely closed shoes.

· Business After 5 O’clock Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 21 at the Schuylkill Country Club, 877 W. Market St., Orwigsburg, co-sponsored by the country club and Spotts Insurance Group.

· There Really is an “I” in Team, 11:45 a.m. Sept. 25 at Oak Hill Inn, 655 PA-61, Orwigsburg, sponsored by The Arts Barn. It will be presented by a panel of different generation chamber committee members.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MAEA lists

agenda of offerings

POTTSVILLE — The locally based Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association, based at 250 One Norwegian Plaza, offers a variety of discussions, training sessions and classes.

For more information or to register, email Christine Robbins at crobbins@nepamaea.com or call 570-622-0992. More information also is available at the MAEA website at www.nepamaea.com. Some upcoming sessions include:

● Crane and rigging safety Train the Trainer, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 14 at Top of the 80s restaurant near Hazleton. The training is approved for four HRCI human relations recertification credits. The instructor is Steve Bair, occupational safety specialist for MAEA. The cost is $371 for MAEA members and $742 for nonmembers.

● Annual Labor and Employment Law Summit, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 26 at Capriotti’s Catering, McAdoo. The contact is Christine Robbins.

● MAEA can assist firms with the following safety services: Conduct mock OSHA safety compliance audits; analyze company’s risk, report the findings and offer corrective action; create a safety and compliance program geared specifically for a firm’s operation; supplement an existing program with the latest training modules and compliance information; train management, employees and contractors in the latest safe working concepts; implement a PA Workplace Safety Committee Certification Program to reduce workers’ compensation premiums by five percent each year; monitor company safety performance and trends and make recommendations for remedial action when necessary; conduct follow-up industrial injury reports. For more information, contact Christine Robbins, director of training and development, via aforementioned methods.

● The Lehigh Valley Business Coalition on Healthcare is a multi-state coalition of employers partnering with MAEA to bring employer members together to provide affordable, quality health care for their employees. Members leverage their pooled purchasing power to negotiate exclusive rates and premiums for a range of self-insured and fully insured benefits programs, including: Medial, dental, prescription drug, vision, behavioral health, private exchange and data analytics. In addition to helping members reduce the cost of benefits, LVBCH also works with providers and insurers to improve quality of care. For additional information, call Darlene J. Robbins at 570-622-0992 or email to drobbins@nepamaea.com.

● MAEA also offers recorded webinars with agency instructors creating material to meet specific needs. For more about the service, call Christine Robbins at 570-622-0992 or via email to crobbins@nepamaea.com.

● MAEA offers forklift training classroom instruction, which is running and accepting additional participants, according to a release. The effort is approved for six HRCI HR credits and is a prerequisite to be an experienced forklift operator. The cost is $435 for MAEA members and $870 for nonmembers. Use the aforementioned registration methods. The instructor is Steve Bair, occupational safety specialist for MAEA. Robbins can be reached at the aforementioned email and phone number.

HAMBURG — A Kentucky man charged with driving almost 100 miles per hour and causing a June 29 crash that claimed the lives of an Auburn man and his son is headed to Berks County Court after charges against him were held to court Monday.

Christopher A. Cornelius, 41, of 1901 Emerson Ave., Louisville, sat motionless during more than an hour of testimony before Magisterial District Judge Kim Bagenstose that included the wife and mother of the victims.

State police Trooper Jordan Hoffman of the Hamburg station charged Cornelius with homicide by vehicle, aggravated assault by vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, involuntary manslaughter, recklessly endangering another person, following too closely, driving at an unsafe speed, maximum speed limits, careless driving, careless driving-unintentional death, careless driving-serious bodily injury, reckless driving and improper occupant protection.

Prior to the hearing, Hoffman added five charges against Cornelius. They included homicide by vehicle while DUI, aggravated assault while DUI and three counts of driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.

Bagenstose determined the commonwealth proved a prima facie case and ordered all charges against Cornelius held for Berks County Court.

Berks County constables escorted Cornelius to Berks County Prison, where he is being held in lieu of $1 million bail.

The 3:24 a.m. crash in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 78, in the area of mile marker 43 in Greenwich Township, claimed the lives of Nicholas Winter, 56, and his son, Nicholas Jacob Winter, 26, both of Auburn.

Lisa Winter, 55, wife and mother of the victims, respectively, told the court the family was headed to New Jersey when the crash happened.

Sitting in court with her neck in a brace, Lisa Winter said the crash happened so quickly she does not remember much.

“We were hit from behind and we rolled down a 100-foot embankment,” she said.

Winter said that as a result of the crash, she has two fractures in her neck and also suffered injuries to her knee and other parts of her body.

Lisa Winter said she was wearing her seat belt at the time of the crash and that her husband was not. The woman said she was not sure if her son, who was in the back seat, was belted.

In his affidavit of probable cause, Hoffman said the crash occurred near mile marker 43.4 where Cornelius was driving east when he was unable to slow down, did not apply his brakes and ran into the back of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler driven by the elder Winter.

The impact pushed the Jeep into the right guide rail, where it began riding on top of the guide rail before going over and then down an embankment, rolling over and ejecting the father and son.

Trooper Dominic Marino told the court he arrived at the scene within 10 minutes of being notified and found Lisa Winter sitting on the top of the Jeep that came to a stop on its wheels. He also said he said the two victims were deceased on the ground near the vehicle.

Marino said he briefly spoke with Cornelius, who appeared to have injuries to his head. For this reason, Marino said he chose to not have the man perform a field sobriety test.

Under questioning by Cornelius’ attorney, Berks County Public Defender Keith McConnell, Marino said a breath test given at the scene to Cornelius produced negative results for alcohol.

Cpl. Timothy Cutshaw of the Schuylkill Haven station, a collision analysis reconstruction specialist, said he was able to analyze air bag control modules from each of the vehicles.

He said the unit from the Cornelius vehicle showed it traveling at speeds of 98, 99 and 95 mph shortly before impact with the Jeep.

Data also showed the brake switch was activated just prior to the crash and that the vehicle veered to the left before impact.

Data from the Winter Jeep showed it was being driven at 55 mph at the time of impact and that the operator tapped the brakes, possibly slowing slightly for a downhill grade in the highway.

“All the evidence pointed to the Chevrolet rear-ending the Jeep,” Cutshaw said.

Hoffman testified that items related to the use of narcotics were found inside the Cornelius vehicle, including syringes, a scale and rolling papers.

A subsequent blood test on Cornelius determined the man had methamphetamine and amphetamines in his system at the time of the crash.

A blood test on the elder Winter showed no signs of alcohol or drugs, only caffeine.

Hoffman also told the court that the investigation led to information from a person who was a passenger in the Cornelius vehicle in the hours prior to the crash.

That person, Hoffman said, reported Cornelius driving in a reckless manner, speeding and changing lanes without using signals.

The witness said it appeared that Cornelius was under the influence of a controlled substance, Hoffman said.

The case was prosecuted by Berks County Assistant District Attorney Justin D. Bodor.

Cornelius will now appear in Berks County Court, where he can plead guilty or enter a not guilty plea and request a trial.

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

TREMONT — A Frailey Township composting facility constructed a new building and has also successfully used its product for mine land reclamation. Where scraggly brush once hung on scarred land now grows field corn.

Richard E. Valiga, a professional engineer who’s also general manager of Natural Soil Products, offered a media tour Monday at the 2286 E. Center St. firm for The Republican-Herald.

Tully Environmental owns NSP, which began in the 1990s as a leaf composting site, and in 1997 became a biosolids composting business on a 100-acre property. It’s permitted through the state Department of Environmental Protection for “beneficial use of exceptional quality biosolids,” and with the state Department of Agriculture for “agriculture soil/plant amendment.”

“You have to be a bit of a visionary. I think that’s what I’ve done in working with this,” Valiga said.

It produces 40,000 tons of compost annually, he said.

NSP takes “Class B” biosolids — which come from wastewater treatment plants and have already been treated — and turns it into what DEP calls “Class A exceptional quality” biosolids.

What determines a Class A from a Class B is the measure of pathogens contained within the product, he said. Class B must have less than 2 million MPN, or most probable number, of pathogens when tested. Class A must have 1,000 MPN or less, according to Valiga. Fecal coliform is typically one of the anaerobic (without oxygen) bacteria/pathogens tested.

‘Extinction’

“We have a mass extinction site here,” Valiga said, explaining the process. The company uses a $620,000 “Komptech compost turner” to transform anaerobic bacteria into aerobic (needs oxygen) bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria is the kind of bacteria found in the human gut.

NSP mixes three parts wood chips to one part biosolids to create a pile. The pile begins to heat up naturally. NSP then aerates the pile without disturbing the temperature that’s created within it. By keeping the temperature above 130 degrees, the process “pasteurizes” the biosolids, ridding it of the anaerobic pathogens.

It typically takes 15 to 30 days for the pile to process at an average of 135 to 145 degrees, he said.

Valiga held up a sample of the finished, screened product, which had a dark, black color and a peat moss consistency. He noted how the finished compost had no foul odor, as he took a sniff and held it for others to smell, if they wished. The unscreened compost is similar to the screened compost, but it’s a bit chunkier with larger pieces of wood chips showing. The screened compost is a much finer composition. The company sells both screened and unscreened compost. Customers include farmers and top soil manufacturers.

New structure

In May, the company began using its new structure, an 84,000-square-foot, fabric roof covered pre-engineered building. It spans 2.2 acres, with galvanized steel trusses, and is on an 8-inch thick asphalt base. It resembles an enormous car port and keeps the Komptech compost turner — and the product — out of the rain.

Any rainwater coming off the structure is directed into a stormwater collection system. Meanwhile, an odor suppression system is used to reduce any ammonia smell that comes from turning the pile. The odor suppression is a 25-nozzle machine that looks similar to a misting fan.

Science and compliance

The business must undergo rigorous testing, costing more than $100,000 annually, Valiga said, and must remain in compliance to continue to operate. All laboratories that test NSP are off-site and are PA DEP-certified and approved labs.

Valiga shared copies of the state code.

“Sewage sludge may not be applied to the land if the concentration of any pollutant in the sewage sludge exceeds the ceiling concentration for the pollutant in Table 1,” chapter 271.914 of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Title 25, Environmental Protection state code reads.

Some of the pollutants listed in the ceiling concentration table include arsenic, at 75 milligrams per kilogram; cadmium, 85; copper, 4,300; lead, 840; mercury, 57; molybdenum, 75; nickel, 420; PCBs, 8.6; selenium, 100; and zinc, 7,500. There’s also a table for cumulative pollutant loading rates, meaning over a period of time if a site receives the product, soil samples must be taken to insure the pollutant is not building up in the ground at a rate that exceeds the maximum.

There’s only one other large compost facility in the area similar to NSP, and that’s A&M Compost in Lancaster County, Valiga said. He used to operate it before selling it in the 1990s to J.P. Mascaro & Sons. It’s usually cost prohibitive for individuals to get started with a company such as NSP. There’s several million invested in equipment alone. The Tremont site employs 11.

Reclamation

Product that’s processed at NSP is also helping to reclaim mine lands. NSP has reclaimed more than 500 acres of strip mined land owned by Rausch Creek, according to Valiga. NSP used its unscreened compost — which includes larger pieces of wood chips — as a bed where sweet corn was planted on several of Rausch Creek’s parcels near NSP in 2011-12.

The results were successful with a 6- to 8-inch layer of compost. The corn planting has continued since. A farmer leases the reclaimed land from Rausch Creek.

“It’s really replenished the wildlife here,” Valiga said.

Deer, bear, coyote and turkey frequent the area. As if on cue, a deer came out from a corn field while The Republican-Herald was touring the site Monday.

NSP also recycles wood and yard wastes.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

The Republican-Herald is looking for local residents who attended Woodstock in Bethel, New York, in 1969 for stories about this month’s 50th anniversary of the famous “peace and music” festival.

Contact us through a direct Facebook message or email City Editor Brian Smith at bsmith@republicanherald.com with the subject “Woodstock” to arrange an interview.

James R. Ferrier

ORWIGSBURG — A Port Carbon man is headed to Schuylkill County Court after waiving his right to a preliminary hearing Tuesday on charges resulting from an altercation in July in Schuylkill Haven.

Matthew J. Burke, 37, of 218 N. Coal St., faces charges of simple assault and harassment. Magisterial District Judge James R. Ferrier bound over the charges for court after Burke waived his right to the hearing.

Schuylkill Haven police charged Burke with hitting, shoving and throwing Karen M. Capko to the floor at 8:44 a.m. July 22 at the alleged victim’s residence. Police said the assault ended an argument between Burke and Capko that had resulted in him repeatedly yelling at her.

Police also said Capko suffered bruising on the right side of her right forehead, her right leg and both her arms.

Capko’s children and one of her neighbors heard the fight, according to police.

Burke is free on $5,000 straight cash bail pending further court proceedings.

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

Shawn K. Cooper, 45, of 17 W. Liberty St., Schuylkill Haven; driving under the influence, driving under suspension, disregarding traffic lane, improper turning movements, careless driving and operating vehicle without valid inspection; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge of driving under suspension withdrawn, other charges bound over for court.

Kelly M. Davis, 35, of 127 Forget-Me-Not Road Apt. 2C, Schuylkill Haven; theft of leased property and receiving stolen property; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Jeffery C. Mendoza, 31, of 20 Natale Court, Pine Grove; possession of a controlled substance, possession of a small amount of marijuana, DUI, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under suspension; charges held for court after preliminary hearing that Mendoza did not attend. Ferrier asked the court to issue a bench warrant for Mendoza.

Lyndsi M. Moyer, 24, of 244 Fountain Road Apt. 3, Hegins; possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a prohibited offensive weapon; charges held for court after preliminary hearing.

Stephen T. Personette, 42, of 376 Sculps Hill Road, Auburn; DUI, disregarding traffic lane, improper turning movements, careless driving and no rear lights; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Hector J. Rivera-Vazquez, 50, of 430 Douglass St., Reading; two counts each of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

(Staff writer Peter E. Bortner compiled this report)

Man to be extradited to Puerto Rico

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — Authorities from Puerto Rico will travel to Schuylkill County to extradite a man picked up by Schuylkill Haven police on Sunday.

Police said Patrolman Tyler Fleming stopped a vehicle being driven on Route 61 around 10:25 p.m. June 14 by William Julio Gaud, 35, of 2085 Long Run Road, Schuylkill Haven.

A subsequent check revealed that Gaud was listed as a wanted person in Puerto Rico. Puerto Rican authorities confirmed the warrant but were unable to confirm the man’s credentials.

On July 29, police said, Viviana Vidal Burgos with the Puerto Rico Department of Justice confirmed the warrant and confirmed that Gaud was the person wanted.

The charges against Gaud are under the Puerto Rico Domestic Violence Act for abuse, a fourth-degree felony, and abuse by threat, also a fourth-degree felony.

Burgos also confirmed that Puerto Rican authorities will extradite the man to have him answer to the charges.

Police said around 8:45 p.m. Sunday officers were told Gaud’s vehicle was at his house and he was subsequently taken into custody there without incident.

Gaud was charged by Schuylkill Haven police with arrest prior to requisition, arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, and committed to Schuylkill County Prison in lieu of $100,000 straight cash bail to await extradition.

Police investigate crash in Pottsville

POTTSVILLE — Pottsville police investigated a crash that was reported around 6:20 p.m. Sunday.

Police said the investigation determined that John Rich, 67, of Pottsville, was driving a motorized scooter north in the 100 block of North Fourth Street toward West Arch Street, when he attempted to make a left turn onto West Arch Street.

Police said Rich crashed into a curb in the northwest corner of the intersection, causing him to suffer head, neck and face injuries.

Police said Rich was taken to the hospital by Schuylkill EMS and, as a result of the crash, will be cited by Patrolman Joel Methven with driving while suspended, driving without insurance and driving an unregistered vehicle.

Man charged for hitting police car

POTTSVILLE — Pottsville police charged a city man with hitting the open door of a police cruiser with his truck in the 200 block of West Market Street around 5:10 p.m. July 31.

Police said Sgt. James Joos was conducting a traffic stop with the emergency lights of his police vehicle activated. As he was exiting his cruiser, Tyler Wychunas, 27, struck the open door of the cruiser with his 2019 Ford F-150 truck.

Police said a subsequent investigation showed that Wychunas was fully aware of the police vehicle’s position and the emergency light activation but did not allow for adequate safe clearance of the emergency vehicle as required by law when he decided to attempt to pass it on the busy roadway.

As a result, police said, Wychunas will be charged with duty of driver in emergency response areas.

Pottsville police cite man for crash

POTTSVILLE — A crash that was reported around 3:25 p.m. July 30, at 20th and Market streets, was investigated by Pottsville police.

Police said officers learned that Rodney Heller, 32, of Pottsville, was driving east on West Market Street when he went through a red light, entered the intersection and struck the rear passenger’s side of a 2016 Buick Encore driven by a 76-year-old Minersville man.

No injuries were reported in the crash. Police said as a result of the crash, Patrolman Anna Flail cited Heller for a red light violation.

Pottsville firefighters assisted at the scene with cleanup and traffic control.

Police to conduct roving DUI patrols

POTTSVILLE — The North Central Regional Sobriety Checkpoint DUI Taskforce announced that sobriety checkpoints and roving DUI patrols will be conducted now through Monday on routes 61, 183, 901, 209, 1006, 309, 1008, 443, 895, 125, 25, 924 and 54.

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

The sobriety checkpoints are part of the North Central PA Regional Sobriety Checkpoint and Expanded DUI/Underage Drinking Enforcement Program funded through the state Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Police charge man with harassment

POTTSVILLE — State police charged a 46-year-old Pottsville man after an incident at 848 Valley Road in Cass Township around 5:30 p.m. Monday.

Police said Henry Beck, 46, was charged with harassment stemming from an argument he had with his brother — August Beck, 48, also of Pottsville.

Police said Henry Beck will now have to answer to the charge against him in district court.

SHENANDOAH — The Greater Shenandoah Area Historical Society on Tuesday hosted a program about the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion by a Pine Grove man who visited France in June.

Pine Grove Area School District school board Vice President Donald E. Brown Jr. traveled to Normandy and other sites with 23 cadets of the school district’s Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps and 14 adult chaperones to visit the Normandy beachheads on June 6, the date the invasion began in 1944.

The cadets and adults had the chance to experience being in the area where an Allied invasion force, the largest invasion force in history, landed on five beaches after crossing the English Channel in naval vessels and aircraft to take on the Nazi military forces along the French coast in order to liberate Europe from the occupation and end World War II in the European Theater of Operations.

The Pine Grove group was the only JROTC unit from Pennsylvania to attend the ceremonies. The group left the United States on June 4, making a stop in Iceland before heading for France and landing in Paris. One of the adult leaders was retired Army Sgt. 1st Class LeRoy Bates, who is an instructor for the 82-member JROTC unit at Pine Grove Area.

The program was held at the historical society headquarters, with society historian Andy Ulicny welcoming everyone and introducing Brown, who presented a slide show of photos mostly taken by him of the travels of the group in northwestern France and later during a few days in Paris.

“I’m a baby boomer, born in 1960, and my brother was born in 1946,” Brown said to the group. “I had five uncles and my father who served in World War II, so I always had some kind of interest in World War II. Unfortunately, one of my uncles lost his life sometime during the Battle of the Bulge. Another one of my uncles (Staff Sgt. Russel Brown) was in the 82nd Airborne, and he landed in Sainte Mere-Eglise in France on D-Day. That was his third combat jump, with his first in Sicily, his second in Italy, his third in France and his fourth was (Operation) Market Garden when they tried to get to the bridge at Remagen.”

Operation Market Garden was the Allies effort to prevent the German army from destroying the Ludendorff Bridge and capture it so troops and equipment could cross the Rhine River into Germany.

Brown said the school board was approached in 2018 with a request to allow the cadets to travel to France for the anniversary. The request was approved unanimously, with Brown interested in taking the trip.

His presentation included photos and videos, two including flyovers by a British Spitfire and C-47 Dakota planes, both WWII aircraft. The photos include scenes of Utah Beach and Omaha Beach, and also visits to cemeteries where soldiers are buried.

There were several occasions when someone else took photos of him. One photo showed him with a drummer with the NYPD Emerald Society band.

“I was walking along and thought I need to get a picture of this guy,” Brown said. “Our tour guide was right behind me and she said she would take the picture. I was talking with him and told him I lived not too far from him in Schuylkill County, where we make Yuengling beer. He knew exactly what I was talking about.”

Photos were also shown of visits to museums, one that included the uniform and other items from Lt. Gen. James “Jumpin’ Jim” Gavin, a native of Mount Carmel who was the third commanding general of the 82nd Airborne in WWII.

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

Ashland

The third annual Ashland Night Out will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Fifth and Center streets “to help the people of Ashland know what is available in their town and help children to be familiar” with local police and firefighters, according to a release. The event will include games, Smokey the Bear, face painting and other activities. Food and beverages will be on sale and there will be door prizes. For more information, call 570-400-3587.

Auburn

The Auburn Fire Company will have a block party from 4 to 11 p.m. Saturday featuring food, beverages, games and music. There will be a hose-and-barrel contest at noon and a firetruck parade at 4 p.m. Disc jockey Party Tyme will entertain from 6 to 10 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, email to judyepting10@yahoo.com.

Halifax

The public is invited to attend the 97th Enders family reunion Saturday at the Enders Grove, 30 Enders Grove Road. In a release, organizers said it will be a “day of fun and celebration” with homemade food on sale from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Enders Family Association will have a memorial service and brief business meeting at 2 p.m. Shelby Nestler and The Make Mine Country Band will entertain from 3 to 6 p.m. Facilities accessible to the handicapped will be available; antique cars and recreational vehicles are welcome but hookups are not available. Philip Christian Enders and his wife, Anna Apolonia Degan, arrived in America from Germany in 1764. The Enders Family Association has held annual reunions since 1912 with the exception of the war years. For more information, go online to https://endersfamily.org.

Minersville

The St. Matthew Travelers group is taking reservations for several trips on its agenda, including to Mohegan Sun casino Aug. 19 and Sept. 16. The cost is $25 with a $30 rebate. The bus will leave from Giant Market, Cressona, at 8 a.m. and Minersville 8:30 a.m. A trip to Resorts Casino, Atlantic City, is set for Sept. 9. The bus will depart at 8 a.m. from Minersville and at 8:15 a.m. from Giant Market at Cressona Mall. The cost is $40 with a $25 rebate. A bus trek for a free day in New York City is set for Dec. 4. The bus will depart at 7 a.m. from Minersville and at 7:15 a.m. from Giant Market, Cressona Mall. The cost is $45 and there will be half-price tickets available for a Broadway show. For more information on any of the excursions, call Julia at 570-544-5231 or Millie at 570-628-5413.

Minersville

Minersville Fish and Game, Live Oaks Road, will have Wings and Things, open to the public, from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday. For more information, call 570-544-3155.

Orwigsburg

A weeklong ice cream dine-out at Twisted Sisters, 217 E. Market St., beginning Monday and going through Aug. 17, will benefit the Orwigsburg Area Free Public Library with Twister Sisters donating a portion of its proceeds to the library. On Aug. 16, Splash the Clown will be on hand from 5 to 7 p.m. to entertain and create balloon animals. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-366-1638.

Pottsville

Extended hours for the Schuylkill County Register of Wills, according to a release, will be as follows: 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday; 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sept. 18; 8:30 a.m. to noon Oct. 5 and Dec. 7.

Pottsville

A free book bingo is slated at Boscov’s Auditorium, Fairlane Village mall. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Participants will play bingo and win books as prizes, hosted by the public libraries of the Pottsville Library District, according to a release from Tanya Savitsky, director of the Ringtown Area Public Library. The event is for all ages. Hot dogs, water and baked goods will be on sale.

Tremont

All children who attended the 2019 summer reading program or who have a Tremont Area Free Public Library card are invited to attend a space movie at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Pine Grove Theater, 213 Tulpehocken St., Pine Grove. The youngsters are invited for a movie, popcorn and beverage, according to a release. For more information, call 570-695-3325.