POTTSVILLE — A Tamaqua man is headed to prison after a Schuylkill County judge sentenced him Friday for possessing stolen property in August 2017 in his hometown.

Joshua S. Honey, 23, must serve three to 23 1/2 months behind bars, as well as pay costs and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account, Judge John E. Domalakes decided. Domalakes made the sentence effective at 9 a.m. Aug. 30.

After a one-day trial over which Domalakes presided, a jury found Honey guilty on June 10 of receiving stolen property. Tamaqua police had charged Honey with possessing the property on Aug. 13, 2017.

Assistant District Attorney Thomas P. Pellish had asked for a prison sentence of nine to 23 months for Honey.

However, Domalakes came closer to the request of Assistant Public Defender William L.J. Burke, who had asked him to sentence his client to three to 23 months. Burke emphasized that Honey is not violent and works in construction.

“He’s gainfully employed,” Burke said of Honey.

Also in the county court, Judge Charles M. Miller on Wednesday accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, the following people:

Masiya Caudle-Stone, 28, of Hazleton; driving under the influence and failure to use low beams; 72 hours to six months in prison,$1,025 in fines, $100 payment to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $50 CJEA payment, $247.30 bench warrant fee and 10 hours community service. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of driving without a license.

Amy J. Fayock, 28, of Hazleton; two counts of retail theft; one to three years in a state correctional institution, $100 in CJEA payments, $258 restitution and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement officials. Prosecutors withdrew two counts each of conspiracy and receiving stolen property.

Richard D. Kennedy, 34, of Tamaqua; possession of a controlled substance; eight to 24 months in a state correctional institution, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under suspension-DUI related.

Christine L. Oxner, 48, of Andreas; possession of a controlled substance; six to 23 months in prison, $100 SAEF payment and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Christopher J. Serina, 39, of Tamaqua; two counts of possession of a controlled substance; time served to 12 months in prison with immediate parole, 11 months consecutive probation, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $176 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and defiant trespass.

Ariel S. Stevens, 22, of Coaldale; possession of a controlled substance; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $239 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

Police release recent updates

TAMAQUA — Tamaqua police released the following information:

 Tori A. Kessler, 33 and Jesse M. Lincovich, 38, both of Tamaqua, face drug paraphernalia charges after police responded to 71 Bowe St., for a possible heroin overdose on Aug. 7.

Lincovich told police he used fentanyl and was unconscious. He also handed police an empty packet of fentanyl from a garbage can and opened a safe that contained more empty packets. EMS evaluated him and Kessler, who was wanted in Berks County, was found hiding in a cubby hole in the attic with a needle containing fentanyl.

 Matthew D. Barnisky, 49, of Tamaqua, faces a count of retail theft after he went to Family Dollar on Aug. 1 where he was caught attempting to conceal two women’s bras, valued at $9 and exit the store.

 Officers found Joshua Schrepple, 37, of Tamaqua lying on his back in the mulch at 533 Schuylkill Ave., “flopping around,” on Aug. 5 around 5:30 p.m. after being called there for a man acting erratically. He admitted to being under the influence of drugs and alcohol and was cited for public drunkenness. EMS evaluated him and brought him to St. Luke’s Miners Campus, Coaldale and officers following, assisting hospital staff with holding him down.

 Grant Miller, 70, of Tamaqua, pulled a fire alarm at Majestic Apartments, 201 E. Broad St., on Aug. 5 at 1 a.m. to get someone to unlock his door. He was cited for control of alarm devices after police and firefighters arrived to find he activated the alarm because he locked himself out of his apartment and didn’t know what to do. An officer advised him that he needed to call a locksmith, not firefighters.

 William Ladlee, 38, of Tamaqua, faces charges after police responded to 112 Market St., on Aug. 7 for an unwanted person attempting to get into the home. They found Ladlee on the front porch who claimed to be there to retrieve his bluetooth speaker. He appeared to be under the influence of drugs and had a pair of brass knuckles near him, though he denied they were his. They also found a crushed white substance in tin foil near him and a knife. Ladlee claimed the knife was his.

 Michael A. Aviles Sr., 54, of Tamaqua, faces license and registration of dogs and dogs running at large after his canine bit a passerby in the arm and attacked the passersby’s dog, too. The Aug. 6 incident happened on West Broad Street in the area of Nescopec Street. Aviles told police his dog got out of his crate and crashed through the front door and agreed to pay for any damages but officers later learned the animal’s rabies vaccination expired on May 9.

Thomas A. Tessitore Jr., 36, of Tamaqua, faces retail theft and receiving stolen property after police responded to Family Dollar for a retail theft involving a suspect who walked away from the business. Officers found Tessitore in the area and retrieved a $1 frozen hamburger from him.

Anthony J. Kilker

SHENANDOAH — A Shenandoah man charged with threatening to burn down his home with people inside on July 27 waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker.

Michael J. O’Boyle, 40, of 32 N. White St., was arrested by Shenandoah police Patrolmen William Moyer and Adam Sajone and charged with arson, recklessly endangering another person, terroristic threats, disorderly conduct and harassment.

Prosecutors withdrew the arson and recklessly endangering another person charge and O’Boyle waived the remaining four offenses to Schuylkill County Court, where he can now plead guilty or enter a not guilty plea and request a trial.

Officers were called to O’Boyle home around 3 a.m. for a report of a man setting a house and car on fire and threatening to kill everyone.

At the scene, officers found a box on fire between a house and a vehicle and spoke to witnesses who said O’Boyle had been drinking and threatened to kill them and burn the house down, court papers said.

Other court cases included:

Jennifer Probition, 42, of 131 Laurel St., Ashland; pleaded guilty to theft from a motor vehicle and prosecutors withdrew charges of receiving stolen property and conspiracy.

Craig G. Babel, 56, of 1 Powell St., Mountain Top; waived for court: DUI-controlled substance and careless driving.

Heather M. Weingard, 28, of 16 N. Lehigh St., Shenandoah; held for court: driving without a license and driving with a suspended or revoked license. Weingard failed to appear for the hearing and a warrant was requested for her arrest.

Kevin A. Kegolis, 33, of 115 N. Gilbert St., Shenandoah; withdrawn: burglary. Waived for court: criminal trespass and disorderly conduct.

David Dross, 27, of 131 Laurel St., Ashland; waived for court: theft from a motor vehicle, receiving stolen property and conspiracy.

Jeremiah G. Spirko, 31, of 22 Tunnel Road, Barnesville; waived for court: obstructing the administration of law, resisting arrest, possessing instruments of crime and loitering and prowling at night.

George C. Hartranft, 46, homeless, Mahanoy City; waived for court: burglary, criminal trespass and receiving stolen property.

Jasen C. Joseph, 40, of 269 Mount Olive Blvd., Shenandoah; waived for court; strangulation, false imprisonment, simple assault, harassment and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Travis C. Beam, 56, of 35 S. Bower St., Shenandoah; withdrawn and moved to citations: resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Amanda Ashlee Stout, 30, of 5 S. D St., Mahanoy City; withdrawn because the victim failed to attend: simple assault and harassment.

Raymond B. Miller Jr., 49, of 102 Jerry’s Road, Ringtown; held for court: flight to avoid apprehension, trial or punishment.

Ruthann Brill, 44, of 222 Green Mountain Road, Box 374, Ringtown; dismissed: possession of a controlled substance.

Korey R. Wronski, 29, of 123 W. Market St., Mahanoy City; waived for court: criminal trespass and possessing instruments of crime.

James K. Reiley

POTTSVILLE — A Pine Grove man charged with stealing items from the property across from the Roller Roost at Westwood and Woodglen roads on May 8 waived his right to a hearing before Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley.

Andrew J. Hamilton, 32, of 1317 Mountain Road was arrested by Pottsville police Detective Kirk Becker and charged with one count each of theft, receiving stolen property and defiant trespass.

By waiving his right to a hearing, Hamilton will now have to answer to all three charges in Schuylkill County Court, where he can plead guilty or enter a not guilty plea and request a trial.

Becker said Hamilton illegally entered property of M.J. Electric LLC used for storage on three separate occasions and removed various items including tools, equipment and copper materials.

Becker said the initial value of the items taken is $7,786.24 but that amount can change as the investigation progresses.

Other court cases included:

Roy E, Hilbert, 56, of 1629 Market St., Harrisburg – waived for court: conspiracy.

Abbygail I. Jean, 22, of 1400 N.13th St., Reading; waived for court: DUI-controlled substance and exceeding the speed limit.

Bridget Ann Steffie, 40, no address available, Pottsville; waived for court: contraband-controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and manufacture of a controlled substance.

Mindy Burke, 37, of 522 Haystack Drive, Zion Grove; waived for court: theft by unlawful taking, acquiring or obtaining possession of a controlled substance by misrepresentation, furnishing false or fraudulent material information, receiving stolen property and possession of a controlled substance.

Lizabeth J. Smith, 39, of 616 E. Norwegian St., Pottsville; dismissed: simple assault and harassment.

Charles S. Williams Jr., 26, of 117 E. Centre St., Shenandoah; withdrawn after Williams pleaded guilty to a summary offense: defiant trespass.

Tyrone E. Bruton, 51, of 403 E. Market St., Pottsville; withdrawn after Bruton pleaded guilty to a summary offense: recklessly endangering another person and disorderly conduct.

Tammy Cummings, 45, of 800-12 N. Second St., Pottsville; withdrawn after Cummings pleaded guilty to a summary offense: possession of drug paraphernalia.

(Staff writer Frank

Andruscavage compiled this report)

LLEWELLYN — The death of a man found under a vehicle on his Branch Township property Tuesday afternoon was an accident, police said.

Robert Yeager, 67, was found dead around 2:45 p.m. in a garage to the rear of his 1411 Bunting St. home.

State police Trooper Vincent Laselva, of the Schuylkill Haven station, said a vehicle Yeager was working on fell off wooden blocks.

Yeager was pronounced dead by Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner Albert Barnes, Branch Township.

Assisting with the investigation was the state police Troop L Major Case Team.

The team, comprised of police from all five stations in Troop L, assists in investigating deaths that are deemed to be suspicious or out of the ordinary. Lt. Scott Brennan, Troop L crime unit commander, said a person killed by a vehicle falling is not a common occurrence, explaining why five members of the major case team were called to the scene, along with a detective from the county district attorney’s office and Branch-Reilly police.

The protocol is for police to gather evidence that would be used if a case is deemed to be criminal, Brennan said.

“We treat everything as a crime scene until the evidence tells us otherwise,” he said Wednesday.

He told The Republican-Herald on Tuesday that “there are some things that don’t add up.” Police were at the scene past 9 p.m. after first being notified at 3:35 p.m. They also obtained a search warrant, which Brennan said does not mean a crime has been committed, but is required before private property can be entered and processed.

It was determined the death was accidental after examination of evidence and after interviews with family members, he said.

Schuylkill County Coroner Dr. David J. Moylan III said Wednesday that a virtual autopsy will be performed to determine the exact cause of death.

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

Citing the brutal murder of Correctional Officer Eric Williams, two lawmakers on Monday announced legislation that would give prosecutors a second crack at securing the death penalty for killers.

Williams, 34, was beaten and stabbed more than 200 times during an ambush at U.S. Penitentiary at Canaan on Feb. 25, 2013, while preparing to lock inmates into their cells for a nightly head-count.

His killer, Jessie Con-ui, was already serving a life sentence for a gang murder and freely admitted responsibility at trial. Nevertheless, at sentencing, a lone holdout on the jury ensured he did not get the death penalty for the vicious murder, which was caught on tape.

Williams’ family blasted the jury for doing “absolutely nothing” with its decision, which resulted in a second life sentence for Con-ui, 42.

On Monday, Republican U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey and U.S. Rep. Fred Keller, R-12, announced “Eric’s Law,” which would allow prosecutors to impanel a second jury for sentencing if the first jury fails to reach a unanimous decision.

“Officer Eric Williams was killed by a violent gang member while on-duty,” Toomey said in a statement. “His murderer’s crime largely went unpunished, even though 11 out of 12 jurors voted for the death penalty, because he was already serving a life sentence. Our legislation will fix this flaw in our justice system and help ensure no family has to see violent criminals avoid justice.”

The announcement noted federal law currently does not allow prosecutors to impanel a second jury if the first becomes deadlocked. Instead, the presiding judge must impose a sentence other than death.

The proposed legislation, which is modeled after state laws in California and Arizona, would allow for the second jury, but not require it.

“When a jury in a federal death penalty case finds a defendant guilty, but fails to come to a unanimous verdict on the death penalty, there should be an option to review the penalty phase of the trial to give victims and their families the best chance at finding the justice they seek,” Keller said in the statement.

U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-9, Dallas, is a cosponsor of the legislation, which has the support of the prison union, the Fraternal Order of Police and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association.

Contact the writer: jhalpin@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2058

FOUNTAIN SPRINGS — The news media had the opportunity on Wednesday to view the newly-rehabilitated Ghosh Orthodontics Field at Spartan Stadium and learn about the project.

The new synthetic turf field was completed in time for the football and boys’ and girls’ soccer programs as they enter their practice seasons. The news conference included members of those sports programs practicing on the field, something that began at the beginning of this week.

The members of the school board and administration came out for the announcement made by school board President Charles “Chaz” Hepler. Also attending were Dr. Sam Ghosh of Ghosh Orthodontics, Pottsville, who has sponsored the field for almost 10 years, and Mid Penn Bank Senior Vice President/Commercial Loan Manager Mark F. Ketch, who provided the school district with bank financing.

Before the media conference, North Schuylkill Athletic Director Jim Gross said the reaction by the players who have used the field for practice has been very positive. He said there are particular rules to be followed for those who use the field in order to help keep it in top shape. A device called a “groomer” will be used to maintain the field.

In December, the North Schuylkill school board unanimously approved the $1.1 million project to install synthetic turf at the district stadium. The poor condition of the football field led to the decision to retain FieldTurf USA Inc. to replace the natural grass surface.

The project was approved by the school board in December at an estimated cost of $1,119,340; however, through the cost savings on maintenance cost and the partnership of sponsors, the net cost for the district is about $295,000, or $24,600 a year over 12 years.

Business Manager Robert Amos said the cost did increase over time.

“There were change orders of about $100,000, so it’s about $1,219,000 in total cost,” Amos said.

District Superintendent Robert Ackell was pleased the project was completed on time.

“It really is beautiful,” Ackell said. “I was a little nervous about a month ago. It was just a dirt pile, but they (FieldTurf) have it down to a science. There is no reason to cancel games except for lightning.”

Gross opened the media conference with the athletes behind him and Hepler.

“Obviously it’s a very exciting day for us standing here on this beautiful new surface,” Gross said. “A lot of people put a lot of hard work into making this become reality. We also wanted to bring our athletes here who are enjoying the fruits of that labor. They’re very excited to have had their first practices this week. All the feedback I’m getting is very positive.”

Hepler started with the partnership that began about 10 years ago with Ghosh, who began providing $10,000 a year toward the stadium.

“Our idea was to nurse that money and keep it for when we would replace the surface,” Hepler said. “The grass of our old surface had deteriorated to the point where the field was a muddy mess, the grass wasn’t around much anymore, and it was time to find a solution that was a cost-savings in the long run and also gave our kids the best and safest surface that we could provide for them. Through our research and long nights discussing as a board with the administration, we finally got the numbers together to pursue this. I thank Dr. Ghosh for stepping up so many years ago and allowing us to have some kind of vision moving forward.”

In addition to Ghosh, Hepler said there is another partner that is helping the district with the athletic programs.

“As you know, we (school board) did pass an agreement with St. Luke’s University Health Network. They are the official sports medicine provider for the district,” he said. “With that, our training staff was able to stay intact and, in fact, we got an additional trainer to assist. There are education programs for our coaches and our kids who are involved on heat-related and concussion-related things. This is the first year our student athletes were not charged for sports physicals. St. Luke’s came and they did them and it was no cost to our students who participate in sports and needed the physicals. There is so much more involved with this. There was the purchase of a new cart for our trainer.”

Hepler thanked Ketch for setting up the financing.

“There had been a lot of talk about how much the district paid for this or how expensive this project is,” Hepler said. “After all those pieces came together, including the cost savings on not having two of our employees up here every day lining the field for whatever event. There are 56 events in this stadium alone in the fall, so there are cost savings with that. They’re not cutting the grass. They’ll sweep it when it’s called for every so many weeks. The district is on the book for $295,000 for a $1.2 million project. That’s not as well known.”

Hepler said the football team does have experience on playing on the synthetic turf, and the soccer teams will need some time to adjust to the new surface.

“This field is much wider than anything they’ve played on,” he said.

He said there are soccer scrimmages coming up, so the field will be in use within the week.

Hepler asked for a comment from Ghosh, who said, “I think this is great. It looks very beautiful and sharp. I think it’s a legacy that will be left behind for our kids and grandkids. I remember in 2010 the kids who played here benefited from it. They graduated and made their way into college and got a higher education. This is really fabulous that we can do this for our children. I enjoy being part of it. I appreciate what you did with the money. This is very exciting, not just for the school district, but for the entire county. It’s something great.”

“We just want the people to understand that the reasoning behind this is that these guys benefit,” Hepler said while turning toward the athletes. “I don’t think any of them have complained other than it’s a little warmer than what they’re used to.”

Meet the Spartans Night is scheduled for 7 p.m. Aug. 22, when the public will see the field. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held that night.

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

POTTSVILLE — Two Schuylkill County dams will be inspected as the result of an agreement the commissioners approved Wednesday with a Bucks County company to do the work.

PKF Mark III Inc., Newtown, will perform the underwater inspections of the intake tower and outlet works of the Little Schuylkill and Neifert Creek dams, the commissioners decided. The state Department of Environmental protection requires such inspections every 10 years.

County Administrator Gary R. Bender told the commissioners that the two inspections will cost a total of approximately $30,000.

Little Schuylkill Dam is in Tamaqua, while Neifert Creek Dam is in Hometown, Rush Township.

Also, the commissioners approved two change orders for the work at the Human Service Building, which is nearing completion. Each order authorizes weekend work at the public defender’s office at North Center Street and Laurel Boulevard, across from Pottsville City Hall.

The county will pay Antz Energy Systems $4,920 and Perrotto Builder’s Ltd. $27,812.55.

“That building is coming along very nicely,” with moving in expected for September, Bender said. “That requires work on the weekends.”

Also, the commissioners approved two finance-related contracts. One, an agreement with Cornerstone Advisors Asset Management, is for short-term services with a fee of 0.1 percent based on billable market value of the assets. The other, a fee-for-service contract with Moody’s Investors Service, is to obtain a credit rating for the 2019 Go Bond Issue.

“With our bond rating, we’re in a great position,” commissioners Chairman George F. Halcovage Jr. said.

The commissioners also approved a supplemental budget appropriation of $2,300 for the Adult Probation and Parole Office. Director of Finance Paul E. Buber said the money is a draw on reserve funds and will be used for program purposes.

They also approved budget adjustments for 2019 of $828 for public works, $19 for the sheriff’s office and $14,000 for tax claim/tax assessment.

“We’re not increasing the overall budget,” just moving money among line items, Buber said.

In other business, the commissioners also approved the following contracts for 2019-20 with the indicated providers for the Drug & Alcohol Program:

• Ashland Addiction Counseling and Education, with a cap of $30,000.

• Clinical Outcomes Group Inc. outpatient, with a cap of $105,000.

• Clinical Outcomes Group Inc. prevention, with a cap of $85,000.

• Treatment Trends, with a cap of $35,000.

• Gaudenzia Inc. outpatient, with a cap of $35,000.

• Gaudenzia Inc. inpatient, with a cap of $85,000

• Gaudenzia Inc. women’s re-entry, with a cap of $200,000.

• Firetree Inc., with a cap of $75,000.

• Crossroads Counseling, with a cap of $25,000.

They also approved the following contracts for 2019-20 on behalf of Children & Youth:

• Stepping Stones, Reading, for traditional foster care, specialized foster care and teen mother/child foster care at per diem rates of $44, $51 and $81.

• Pennsylvania Mentor, Broomall, for respite care, foster family care and emergency respite care at per diem rates of $84.80, $93.28 and $104.94.

• The Redco Group, Pottsville, for seed mentor, collateral services and intensive care management at per diem rates of $8.50, $15.01 and $17.06.

• Valley Youth House, Bethlehem, for shelter, independent living and SIL single rate at per diem rates of $182.37, $158.08 and $122.85.

• Clear Vision, Montgomery, for residential and group home at per diem rates of $195.68 and $184.59.

• Families United Network, Muncy, for specialized medical level IV foster care, outcome-focused foster care and manor level II at per diem rates of $27.82, $111.39 and $202.01.

Other contracts the commissioners approved on behalf of the Office of Senior Services included:

• Marty Andras, Hazleton, for interpretation and translation at a rate of $45 per hour with a cap of $2,250.

• Penn Kashar Inc., Pottsville, for after-hours on-call answering service at a rate of $91.80 per month up to 100 hours, plus 45 cents for each additional call, with a cap of $2,500 per year.

• Holy Family Adult Day Care, Allentown, at rates of $62.08 per day and $31.04 per half-day.

• Diakon Child Family & Community Ministries, Middletown, for senior community services with a cap of $1,056.668 this year and $954.118 for each of the next two years.

• Schuylkill Transportation Authority, Pottsville, for transportation services, with an overall three-year cap of $215,529.48.

In other business, the commissioners:

• Approved Cathy Cortese, Pottsville, for a three-year term on the Children & Youth Advisory Board.

• Voted to advertise for bids for the plowing of snow and ice, salting and cindering of the county parking lots. Bids are due at the county controller’s office by 3 p.m. Aug. 26, and will be publicly opened at 9 a.m. Aug. 28. The contract is tentatively scheduled to be awarded on Sept. 11.

• Approved a new one-year coal lease with Lone Eagle Coal Co., Pottsville, for 102.1 acres in Reilly Township.

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

SAM exhibit

at Walk In center

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — The Walk In Art Center, 220 Parkway, has announced an upcoming exhibit in collaboration with Service Access Management, whose mission is “to help people throughout our service area enhance the quality of their lives by effectively and efficiently managing and/or providing needed, accessible and individually satisfying human services.”

The exhibit will be open one day only, from 1 to 5 p.m. Sept. 7 in Studio 15.

According to a Walk In release, the exhibit will feature up to 30 pieces of art, created by 10 of SAM’s clients.

The Walk In Art Center has a similar mission, in which “we inspire, equip and celebrate artistic and cultural talent,” organizers said in the release.

SAM’s AE quality manager is Krista Smith, 590 Terry Reiley Way, Pottsville. She can be reached by calling 570-621-2700.

MAEA updates 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:

• Safety roundtable discussion on orthopedic injuries, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday at Top of the 80s restaurant near Hazleton. The presenter will be Dr. Steven Puccio, orthopedic surgeon with Lehigh Valley Physician Group, Hazleton. The roundtable co-chairs are Jim Lucadamo, environmental health and safety manager with Multi-Plastics Extrusions, and Thomas L. Kolesa, health and safety supervisor, Borton-Lawson. The cost is $40 for MAEA members and $80 for nonmembers.

• Hands-on Excell II and III training the MAEA computer lab, One Norwegian Plaza, Pottsville, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 22. The instructor is Nathan Andrews, process improvement and communications specialist for MAEA. People must specify which class and session they wish to attend when registering. The cost is $110 for MAEA members and $220 for nonmembers.

• Coaching strategies to improve performace training, 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 23 at Top of the 80s restaurant near Hazleton, approved for three HRCI recertification credits. The instructor is Cathy Colangelo, certified life and career coach, HR instructor and consultant for MAEA. Those who register three or more participants can receive a 25-percent discount on one participant — for MAEA member companies only. The cost is $100 for MAEA members and $220 for nonmembers.

• Project management training, approved for six business HRCI recertification credits, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 27 at Top of the 80s restaurant near Hazleton. The instructor will be Nate Andrews, process improvement and communications specialist for MAEA. The event, which includes lunch, is $227 for MAEA members and $454 for nonmembers.

• Human resources roundtable on “Navigating the Weeds of Medical Marijuana in the Workplace,” approved for one HRCI human resources certification credit. The presenter will be Jacqueline K. Gallagher of Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney P.C. It will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 29 at the MAEA conference room in One Norwegian Plaza, Pottsville. The cost, which includes lunch, is $40 per participant for MAEA members and $80 per participant 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 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 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.

OBPA turns eyes

to heritage event

ORWIGSBURG — The Orwigsburg Business and Professional Association is preparing for the annual Orwigsburg Heritage Day celebration to be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 7 at the Town Square.

Liz Tuturice, with the association’s events committee, said the event will include two live bands, vendors, food trucks, wineries, restaurants, breweries, children’s activities, demonstrations, community organizations/businesses and other entertainment for all ages, including Revolutionary War re-enactors, horse-drawn carriage rides, a bounce house, games, crafts, face painting and vendors.

This year’s entertainment will be by the bands Rhythm & Brews and Tool Shed Jack.

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 to orwigsburgbusinesspa@gmail.com or go to on Facebook: Orwigsburg Business and Professional Association.

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.

• Pour Tour, From Farm to Glass, sponsored by the chamber agribusiness committee, is set for Saturday 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 & Sons 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. Wednesday 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 to mdonovan@lccc.edu or calling 570-668-6880 or 610-799-1245.

Pawprints eyes 20th anniversary

ORWIGSBURG — Pawprints Pet Salon, Albrights Woods, will have its 20th anniversary celebration from 4 to 9 p.m. today, according to a Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce flier.

The salon offers grooming, boutique and stay-and-play services.

The event will include complimentary hot dogs, burgers and snacks and Twisted Sisters ice cream for people and pets. There will also be live music by Bill Yaz.

“Well-behaved, leashed furry friends are welcome,” according to the flier.

For more information, call 570-366-4984.

A May fire at the Tamaqua Salvation Army was intentionally set, the state police fire marshal’s unit in Frackville has determined.

According to a police report issued Wednesday, the Tamaqua Fire Department extinguished the May 12 fire at 105 W. Broad St., but requested that a state police fire marshal determine its origin and cause.

Trooper Joseph Hall found two origins in a rear storeroom and ruled the cause as arson.

Police said video surveillance shows no one entering or leaving the building prior to the start of the fire at the three-story building.

The fire damaged bins used to store clothing and food donations. Most of the food was collected as part of the recent Hunger Walk in the borough. Additional food and clothing was to be sent to military families residing in the area.

Tamaqua police continue to investigate the incident with assistance from Pennsylvania State Police, Troop L’s Fire Marshal Unit.

Anyone with information should contact Tamaqua Cpl. Thomas Rodgers or Hall.

At the time, Captain Sharon Whispell oversaw the Salvation Army and lived in an upstairs apartment. She was charged last week with stealing $116,913.33 from the organization. Whispell is free after posting $25,000 cash bail and awaits a September preliminary arraignment.

The building also caught on fire in May 2018, causing about $44,000 in damages. That fire, however, was ruled accidental and started in a clothes dryer.

Contact the writer: jwhalen@standardspeaker.com; 570-501-3592

ORWIGSBURG — Students and staff at Blue Mountain Elementary West School will start the 2019-20 school year in a different building because of the discovery of mold.

Superintendent David H. Helsel, Ed.D., said Wednesday the mold was discovered as repairs were being made from several radiators that burst last school year. Mold was found between interior drywall and exterior walls, and could have been caused by the deteriorating external walls and water that could have seeped in.

“They found mold behind the walls; it was never airborne,” he said, adding that no students were in danger.

A notification sent to parents on Wednesday said the district “encountered significant complications while completing renovations” and that “we are working out the details, and plans will be communicated with you as soon as plans and schedules have been finalized.” It did not mention mold.

Meanwhile, the school is closed to the public, Helsel said.

“The safety of our students is our top priority, so the school will be closed indefinitely until repairs are done.”

School was scheduled to start at Blue Mountain West on Aug. 26.

Board action possible today

Helsel said engineers examined the building and are expected to have a report and recommendations ready to submit to the school board for its regularly scheduled meeting tonight.

“It’s going to be close,” he said of the engineering report being completed in time.

With the board’s OK, the next steps can be taken to have the repairs completed, Helsel said.

In addition to the report, recommendations will be made to the board regarding the placement of students and staff while repairs continue, he said.

He said parents and family members will be notified promptly when final plans are in place.

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

Elizabethville

The Elizabethville Area Historical Society has announced its program on Monday will feature Duane Good, editor of The Upper Dauphin Sentinel, who will speak on his 30 years with the newspaper and its role in recording and preserving local history. The program will begin at 7 p.m. at the museum, 100 E. Main St.; the public is welcome to attend. For more information about the society, go to its website at www.elizabethvillehistory.org or to Facebook, Elizabethville Area Historical Society.

Lansford

Don and Donna Nye, Port Carbon, founding members of the band Kings and Queens, will perform from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the gazebo in Kennedy Park near the Panther Valley School District Stadium. Refreshments will be on sale; people are invited to bring chairs to enjoy the show. The event is sponsored by the Lansford Alive Events Committee, which works for the revitalization of the park.

Mahanoy City

The St. Teresa Golden Age group is sponsoring a bus trip to the Philadelphia Premium Outlets, Limerick, on Oct. 5. The cost is $35 and pickups will be in Mahanoy City and Frackville. The group is also sponsoring a trek for a day on your own in New York City on Dec. 14. The cost is $45 and the New York drop-off will be at Eighth and 48th streets. For more information or to register for either trip, call 570-773-1753.

New Philadelphia

The New Philadelphia Community Organization will sponsor a block party from 1 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the James S. Clark Little League site, Route 209. The event will include food, refreshments, games, a bounce house and music. All proceeds will go toward the purchase of new playground equipment. Tickets may be bought at the event; all are welcome. For more information, call 570-277-6957.

Pottsville

A used book sale sponsored by the Friends of the Library support group will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Pottsville Free Public Library, 215 W. Market St. All are welcome.

Pottsville

The Schuylkill County Council for the Arts, 1440 Mahantongo St., has an event on tap called Wine, Women & Song from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the arts center. Wine will be on sale and refreshments will be provided.

Pottsville

Robert Giba, who was named principal at the St. Joseph Center for Special Learning, 2075 W. Norwegian St., recently gave a presentation to the Pottsville Rotary Club about himself and the school, according to the Rotary bulletin. Giba said he is from Frackville and is a 1995 Bloomsburg University graduate. He has worked with all types of social programs, including 15 years with special needs individuals. The center, he said, was launched in the 1950s by Monsignor Boyle, who had a sister with special needs and was looking for an alternative to the institutional setting. Giba said the center is Schuylkill County’s only faith-based private school for those with special needs, offering kindergarten through high school. Schooling is divided into three classrooms, primary, middle and high school. Currently, 17 students are enrolled. There also is an adult program that has 16 clients. Two unique programs are offered, Giba continued, including the Practical-Assessment-Employability-Skills Lab, which is a version of vo-tech education that allows students and adults to learn new jobs and life skills and discover their own vocational interests and abilities, and the Conductive Education Program, which is a six-hour school day that incorporates classroom work with physical therapy and social interaction. The center is operated by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Allentown but is open to all faiths and denominations. More information is available online at www.stjosephcntr.com or by calling 570-622-4638.

Tamaqua

The New England Fire Company, 7 Miller Lane, will have a seafood night from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday. Items will include lobster, clams, shrimp and similar fare, plus steak, chicken and burgers. Prices vary from $9 to $22. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-640-6009.

MOUNT CARBON — A fire that destroyed a large farmhouse in North Manheim Township on Tuesday has been ruled accidental.

Firefighters were called to 57 Glenworth Road at 9:13 a.m. and found a south side wall, the deck and front porch of the house on fire.

State police fire marshal Trooper John F. Burns, of the Frackville station, said his investigation revealed the fire started inside the house, in a wall in the area of an outside hot tub, and spread from there.

Although at least one person reporting the blaze said it appeared the hot tub was on fire, Burns said it was not.

He said the hot tub was not operational and had not been used for some time.

Burns said an estimate of damage is not yet available.

No one was home when the fire started and no injuries were reported.

Burns identified the occupants as John Scheibelhut, his fiancée and his adult son.

Daniel Kleeman, a lieutenant with Pottsville’s Yorkville Hose Company and the duty officer for the department on Tuesday, directed firefighting operations.

He said crews initially entered the building in hopes of containing the fire to the area where it originated, but soon realized those efforts would be fruitless.

Firefighters were called out of the building for their safety, and hose lines were used to battle the fire from outside.

Firefighters from Pottsville and Mount Carbon arrived within minutes after being dispatched at 9:14 a.m. and were joined by Minersville firefighters a short time later.

Shortly after, a second alarm was transmitted, bringing the Tamaqua Fire Department Rapid Intervention Team to the scene and firefighters from surrounding communities to empty Pottsville fire stations for standby.

A tanker task force was activated to shuttle water to the scene.

Narrow Glenworth Road was closed for several hours while firefighters battled the blaze.

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

A woman gunned down and killed by her estranged husband in a murder-suicide Monday at a Harrisburg movie theater was originally from Schuylkill County.

She was also an Army veteran.

Kelly Marie Kearn, 40, of Hummelstown, was shot by Julian Robert Kearn, 50, in the parking lot of the Regal Cinema at 8:40 p.m., according to Susquehanna Township police.

The woman, a daughter of Roger W. and Phyllis M. Mervine, was born in Pottsville and was a 1997 Tri-Valley High School graduate, according to her obituary.

She served in the Army for nine years, with a tour of duty in Iraq, and attained the rank of staff sergeant. She was a 2001 graduate of Penn State University with a degree in management science and information systems.

Police report they were called to the northwest corner of the theater’s parking lot, at 2500 Brindle Dr., at 8:40 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found a male and female next to their vehicles with gunshot wounds to their head.

“Further investigation has revealed this is an incident of murder-suicide, that it was a premeditated incident, and that the male indicated on social media that ‘he was going to go out on his own terms,’ ” police reported. He “lured his estranged wife to the parking lot to kill her and then take his own life,” police said.

No further information about the homicide was released to the media.

Services for Kelly Kearn will be held 11:30 a.m. Friday at St. Paul’s E.C. Church, 172 Ridge Road, Pitman, with Pastor Todd Wolfe officiating. A viewing will be held 9:30 a.m. until the time of service Friday at the church.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

POTTSVILLE — A Cressona woman will spend at least three years behind state prison bars after admitting earlier this month to a Schuylkill County judge that she twice possessed drugs, including once with the intent to deliver them, in 2018.

Crystal L. Mathew, 36, pleaded guilty in one case to two counts of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and one of possession of drug paraphernalia, and to one count each of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia in a second case.

Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin accepted the plea and sentenced Mathew to serve three to six years in a state correctional institution, pay costs, $200 in payments to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $100 in payments to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and $806 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Schuylkill County detectives filed the charges against Mathew in the first case, alleging she possessed salable quantities of two types of drugs, and also paraphernalia, on Oct. 11, 2018, in New Philadelphia.

In the second case, Pottsville police filed the charges against Mathew, alleging she possessed drugs and paraphernalia on Nov. 27, 2018, in the city.

Prosecutors withdrew two additional counts of possession of a controlled substance, plus one count each of conspiracy and driving unregistered vehicle, against Mathew.

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

Defendant: Crystal L. Mathew

Age: 36

Residence: Cressona

Crimes committed: Two counts each of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia, and one count of possession of a controlled substance

Prison sentence: Three to six years in a state correctional institution

The summer may be winding down but there are still plenty of concerts, hikes and family-fun events this month.

The Tamaqua Summer Concert Series continues with a performance by Island Time Lite at 6:30 p.m. today at the Railroad Station, weather permitting. Reserve a table for a meal with your concert or bring a lawn chair or blanket and relax in the grass for the free concert.

Island Park Festival is slated for Saturday in Schuylkill Haven. Food, a live T-102 broadcast, dunk tank, games of chance, beer garden, magician, horse-drawn wagon rides, bingo, kids’ games and contests and live music are guaranteed to keep everyone happy. Proceeds will benefit “The Island.”

The Pottsville Library Free Public Library will have a used book sale at 9 a.m. Saturday. What a great time to stock up on fall reading.

Pioneer Day will take place in Ashland beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday. There will be coal mine tours, steam train rides, live musical entertainment and food, crafts and gaming for purchase.

A Summerfest Block Party will be held in New Philadelphia starting at 1 p.m. Saturday. Food, DJ, bounce house, beer garden, face painting and more will be available. Proceeds benefit the playground at the Little League field.

Schuylkill on the Move invites you to Edible Plants Hike, an easy 3-mile walk, at 1 p.m. Saturday at Swatara Park. Meet at the State Park Lane to explore and learn about plant life with volunteer naturalist Mike Centeleghe. For more information, email porcupinepat@yahoo.com.

The New Individuals will perform at the last Summer Concert Series in the ’Ville for 2019 at 5 p.m. Sunday in Joulwan Park. The event is BYOB. Take a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the concert.

The movie “The Secret Life of Pets” will be shown at the Majestic Theater at 7 p.m. Aug. 23. Admission is free with donation for local animal shelters. See the Majestic Theater’s Facebook page for a list of needed items or call them at 570-732-3728.

Shenandoah will come alive for Heritage Day and Parade of Nations on Aug. 24. The 10 a.m. parade will be followed by ethnic foods, crafts and live music on Main Street.

APPRISE Program

Hotline volunteers

Responsibility: Answer a statewide hotline on Medicare questions, prescription benefits and various insurance options. Work in pairs.

Times: For a few hours on Wednesdays and/or Thursdays. Choose availability.

Skills: Training required and support provided.

Location: Pottsville

Call: Diakon at 570-624-3020.

Historical society

volunteers

Responsibility: Help with a variety of tasks including filing and data entry, light cleaning, assisting patrons with research, scanning photos for electronic storage, gift shop help and more.

Times: Flexible

Skills: Reliable and friendly

Location: Schuylkill County Historical Society

Call: 570-622-7540.

Community Volunteers in Action is the volunteer center for Schuylkill County. Use the preceding contact information for those specific opportunities and search other listings on our website at www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Find us on Facebook. Call us at 570-628-1426 or email jjohnston@co.schuylkill.pa.us.

Branch Township — Lee Ann Smith to James Long and Marina Long; property at Willing and Shober streets, Llewellyn; $22,000.

Frackville — Lowell P. Martin to James M. and Joy R. Emerich; 157 S. Nice St.; $1.

Gordon — Mary C. Norton, Leo V. Sokoloski, Michael J. Sokoloski and Leo J. and Mary C. Sokoloski to Nancy Hoover; 604 McKnight St.; $103,000.

Kline Township — Anthony S. Palmer to Wayne N. Rosinski; 33 Center St., Kelayres; $65,000.

North Union Township — Anna Marie Scarpulla to Anna Marie Scarpulla; .966-acre property on Princess Drive; $1.

Orwigsburg — Robert L. Leymeister to Jessica S. Landis; 130 N. Franklin St.; $86,000.

Pottsville — Charles Godshall to Victor and Marisol Arocho; 1108 Mahantongo St.; $40,000.

Gonzalo R. and Rosa M. Santiago to David 55 RE LLC; 300 Fairview St.; $26,500.

Shenandoah — David J. Nunez to Manuel S. Guerrero-Casado; 435 and 437 W. Arlington St.; $11,000.

Washington Township — Marion E. Hughes to Wade A. and Tina M. Fuhrman; 3445 Sweet Arrow Lake Road; $90,000.

Wayne Township — Robert J. and Margaret D. Buchta to Andrew J. Purcell and Heather N. Phillips; 1247 Running Deer Drive, Lake Wynonah; $170,000.

West Brunswick Township— Courtney A. Ranck to Brendan M. and Holly C. Zindel; 283 Hickory Drive; $464,000.

POTTSVILLE — Instead of taking their cases to trial later this month, two men admitted Tuesday to a Schuylkill County judge that they were guilty of the charges against them.

In one case, Adam J. Schaeffer, 30, of Jim Thorpe, pleaded guilty to retail theft, possession of drug paraphernalia and two counts of possession of a controlled substance.

In the other case, Dennis E. Sweitzer, 63, of Elysburg, pleaded guilty to driving under the influence, disregarding traffic lane and operating vehicle without valid inspection.

President Judge William E. Baldwin accepted the pleas, ordered preparation of a presentence investigation against each defendant and scheduled the sentencings for 10 a.m. Oct. 4.

Tamaqua police charged Schaeffer with committing the theft and possessing drugs and paraphernalia on Dec. 28, 2017, in the borough.

State police at Frackville alleged Sweitzer was DUI on June 30, 2018, in Butler Township.

Also in the county court, Judge James P. Goodman on Monday sentenced Travis G. Beaver, 20, of Shenandoah, to spend two years in the state intermediate punishment program, which combines prison time with substance abuse rehabilitation. State officials had approved Beaver’s admission into the program.

Beaver had pleaded guilty to charges stemming from 12 cases. In addition to placing Beaver in the program for two years, Goodman also sentenced him to pay costs, $200 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $179.45 restitution, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Also in recent county court action, Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, the following people:

Charles S. Brilla III, 26, of Saint Clair; fleeing or eluding police and driving under suspension; eight to 18 months in prison, $2,500 fine and $50 payment to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of stop sign violation.

Trevor J. Gibas, 26, of Cumbola; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Steve W. Harmer, 22, of Minersville; indecent assault; one to two years in a state correctional institution, $50 CJEA payment and 10-year Megan’s Law registration. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of sexual assault.

Minersville police charged Harmer with committing the assault on April 14 in the borough.

Tyrek D. Johnson, 24, of Frackville, formerly of Lansdale; simple assault; one to 11 months in prison consecutive to Montgomery County sentence, $50 CJEA payment and $837 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem.

Ashley Knopp, 30, of Mount Carmel; retail theft; nine to 24 months in a state correctional institution, $50 CJEA payment, $146.96 restitution and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew charges of theft by deception and receiving stolen property.

Roxanne M. Roberts, 29, of Erie; two counts of possession of a controlled substance; three years probation, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $245.50 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Harrisburg. Prosecutors withdrew charges of operating vehicle without required financial responsibility and improper operation of vehicle without lights.

Christina L. Slate, 50, of Minersville; escape; one to two years in a state correctional institution, $50 CJEA payment and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Minersville police charged Slate with escaping from custody on July 6, 2018, in the borough.

Shawna Zandarski, 28, of Girardville; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of possession of a controlled substance.

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

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

Deeds

Ashland — Helen Marie Rebuck to Wilmington Savings Fund Society FSB; 1218 Spruce St.; $1.

Branch Township — Suzanne M. Wartella, David J. and Patricia Wartella, Christine M. Wartella, Michael MacInnis and Carol A. and William C. Purcell to Iverna Randolph; 30 West West Ave., West West Terrace; $179,000.

East Brunswick Township — Shann and Ann Lin to Joshua and Lauren Knepp; 1220 Coventry Road; $290,000.

Frackville — William J. Mack to Misty Gelezinsky; 333 N. Second St.; $69,900.

Middleport — Roseann B. Push to Donna McClain; 12 Coal St.; $31,000.

North Union Township — Vincent Keane to Eagle Rock Resort Co.; Lot 84EA, Eagle Rock; $6,800.

Pine Grove — Jack M. Modesto Sr. to Gary and Cheryl Wertz; 101 Hillside Vista Drive; $195,000.

181218 Portfolio Trust and JMAC Realty LLC to GEM Realty LLC; 183 S. Tulpehocken St.; $45,000.

181218 Portfolio Trust and JMAC Realty LLC to Eugene Melocheck; 13 W. Pottsville St.; $22,500.

181218 Portfolio Trust and JMAC Realty LLC to Eugene Melocheck; 15 W. Pottsville St.; $22,500.

Port Carbon — William and Kathleen McGowan to Marcy Kleckner and William McGowan; 406 Fourth St.; $1.

Porter Township — Drew R. Wetzel to Ryan W. Boyer; 2006 E. Centre St., Good Spring; $77,250.

Pottsville — Estate of Norma Lipton and Robert Lipton to Lisa J. and Neil D. Greenawalt; 2282 Mahantongo St.; $139,900.

Joshua R. and Lauren M. Knepp to Lori Ann Mazloom and Kristopher Ryan Stoneham; 1115 Oak Terrace Road; $220,000.

Janelle D. Miller to Eric M. Cohen; property at North Seventh and Harrison streets; $1,500.

Donna M. Flanigan to Robert S. Cody; 1732 West End Ave.; $78,500.

Patricia M. Essler, Richard P. Neithamer, Elaine Bosin and Barbara J. Sindaco to Sharon J. Hunter; 330 S. Jackson St.; $74,000.

Rush Township — Kory B. Bates Sr. to Kory B. Bates Jr.; four properties in Hometown; $1.

Saint Clair — Dorothy Homa to Michael and Sarah Jackson; 606 Wade Road; $151,000.

Schuylkill Haven — James G. Caravan, Jill M. Caravan and Claudia J. Hurwitz to Amber L. David and Angela M. David; 71 Hickory St.; $125,000.

Shenandoah — Enes Greco, by attorney in fact Enes Zimmerman, to Anthony F. Grodzki Jr.; 101 W. Washington St.; $31,500.

Tamaqua — Dennis J. Ryan, individually and as attorney in fact for Donna L. Ryan, to D&A Investment Properties of Southwest Florida; 320 Elizabeth St.; $29,800.

Wayne Township — Sharon L. Blankenbiller, executrix for the Estate of Noreen A. Muthersbaugh, to Juan R. and Sandra Estrella Cruz; 1031 Indian Drive, Lake Wynonah; $1,000.

West Brunswick Township — Brian and Kristin M. Schaeffer to Witmyer Family Real Estate LLC; 17 Pinedale Industrial Road, Deer Lake Industrial Park; $460,000.

Gage J. Mahaffey to Dennis A. and Beverly J. Baver and Troy D. Baver; 7.794-acre property on Route 61; $53,000.

West Mahanoy Township — Tax Claim Bureau of Schuylkill County to Jan and John H. Lukashunas; 126 S. Spencer St., Altamont; $1,500.

Man charged for lying about gun

TAMAQUA — Tamaqua police charged a borough man for lying to them about a gun, court papers say.

Travis F. Huegel, 41, faces misdemeanors for false reports and unsworn falsification to authorities.

The charges were filed against him on Aug. 6.

He reported his gun was stolen from his vehicle between June 16 and 20 but as officers investigated they learned from state police that the weapon was recovered from a June 20 drug raid at the Hotel 6 in Frackville, arrest papers state.

When Huegel was interviewed again by police, he told officers he sold it to Caleb Harley three weeks prior for cash and suboxone, however Harley was prohibited from having a gun, police wrote.

Man arrested after car accident

TAMAQUA — A Scranton man was charged after police said he wrecked his car in Tamaqua and then fought with first responders trying to help him.

Adrian T. Vasquez, 39, faces three counts each aggravated assault, simple assault, and harassment and one count driving under the influence.

He was released on his own recognizance on Aug. 12 by Magisterial District Judge Stephen Bayer, Tamaqua.

Arrest papers said state police responded to Route 309 near Tuscarora Park Road on Aug. 4 for a crash, finding Vasquez and his wife trapped inside a silver Nissan Altima that overturned on the roadside.

The wife was able to free herself and unbuckle her husband, who at one point went unconscious, police said.

EMS took over care but Vasquez punched two of them in the face and resisted help.

He took a swing at the policeman but the officer dodged him and instead kicked the officer in the inner thigh as he struggled with police, EMS and fire personnel until being placed in handcuffs, court papers state.

POTTSVILLE — Participants in the Schuylkill County Drug Treatment Court said Thursday that different things give them the energy to help make it through their days.

“I feel most energized when I surround myself with positive people,” Michael said while reading from his required weekly essay.

Christopher agreed with him, saying the company he keeps helps him stay on track.

“I’m most energized when I’m around good, positive, supportive people,” he said. “It’s gets me out of my head.”

Schuylkill County officials started the drug treatment court, over which Judge James P. Goodman presides, in January 2017 to try to combat the widespread local drug problem, using a carrot-and-stick approach to help participants beat their addictions. Other counties in Pennsylvania have also instituted drug treatment courts.

Program participants must undergo substance abuse treatment, make regular court appearances, submit to random drug testing and home visits, meet with probation officers and comply with directives from the court and those officers. Participants must complete all five phases in order to graduate from the program; graduation is the carrot, resulting in dismissal of the charges against them and completion of an aftercare program can lead to expungement of that part of their record. The program lasts for a minimum of 14 months.

However, since the participants tender guilty pleas to the charges against them, failure to complete the drug treatment court program is the stick, resulting in their pleas being accepted and the defendants being sentenced, quite possibly to time in a state correctional institution.

Other participants cited different ways they become energized.

Teddy said he finds energy in what he has to do.

“I’m most energized when I’m at a meeting or at work,” he said.

On the other hand, Kerry said she focuses on what she chooses to do.

“I am most energized when I find the joy in simple things,” including spending time with her daughter, she said.

Stephanie agreed with her.

“I’m most energized when I get plenty of sleep and I’m not stressed out,” she said.

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