Deeds

New Philadelphia — Joseph and Barbara Langlois to Michael and Kristina Keiter; 78 Macomb St.; $1.

Diane R. Leinheiser to Diane R. Leinheiser and Leo A. Leinheiser Jr.; 167 Water St.; $1.

North Union Township — Karen L. Latsch to Dominic M. Ferriola; 3.104-acre property on Legislative Route 53109; $48,000.

Pine Grove Township — Linda J. Umbenhauer to Linda J. Umbenhauer and Robert Umbenhauer; 611 Suedberg Road; $1.

George Knapp Jr. and John Henry Knapp to George Knapp Jr.; 14 Sager Drive; $1.

Pottsville — Joseph Henry Schoffstall to Richard and Dina R. Nelson and Samantha and Alexander Gilley; 3 S. 25th St.; $255,000.

Rush Township — Barbara A. Schmerfeld and James G. Bennett to David and Jacquelyn Marie Chalko; 20 E. Main St., Quakake; $93,000.

Jennifer Karnish, executrix of the Estate of Anne H. Trauger, to Sheila Davison-Bray and Lori Ann Miller; 4 Acorn Drive, Lake Hauto; $205,000.

Joshua A. and Jena L. Wenk to Joshua A. Wenk; 12 Laurelwood St., Hometown; $1.

Thomas J. and Nancy L. Pilla to Jesse J. Thaler and Dominique V. Ramer; 172 Lake Drive, Lake Hauto; $359,000.

Tamaqua — Federal National Mortgage Association to Oreste Peter Barone; 212 N. Greenwood St.; $20,000.

HSBC Bank USA to Javier Flores and Maria Peralta; 207 Schuylkill Ave.; $15,000.

William D. and Marlene Shook to Neil A. and Sarah B. Hartzell; 27 N. Railroad St.; $50,000.

Nancy Barcco to Alex Izquierdo Barcco; 304 Hazle St.; $1.

Union Township — Reading R/W Co. Inc. to David A. Gubala; two properties; $5,500.

Washington Township — Carmine D. Colasante and Carol J. Ward-Colasante to Kimberly Ann Booble; property on Lake Drive; $146,500.

Dale L. and Regina W. Stoltzfus to Carl A. Stump; 227 Farm View Road; $1.

Carl A. Stump to Carl A. Stump; 16 Ferebees Road; $1.

West Mahanoy Township — Robert Weikel to Jennifer Lynne Hepler; 131 S. Wylam St., Altamont; $46,900.

West Penn Township — Watermelon Realty LLC and Jacob C. Throne, trustee of 081517 Portfolio Trust, to Jim Jr. and Amanda Morris D’Agostino; 48 Mush Dahl Road; $25,000.

Brian K. and Cynthia A. Labar to Timothy Morris and Hollie Rhoads; 26 Chain Circle; $240,000.

FRACKVILLE — Shenandoah Police Chief George Carado was presented with the Fraternal Order of Police North Schuylkill Lodge 25 “Officer of the Year” award Tuesday.

Carado graduated from Lackawanna Junior College Police Academy in 1994 and began his law enforcement career in Hegins Township.

He also worked for Ringtown Borough Police Department and West Mahanoy Township Police Department.

In 1996, Carado became a member of the Schuylkill County Drug Taskforce where he found his true passion and has since became an integral part of the Narcotics Unit.

In June 2004, Carado was hired as a patrolman with Shenandoah Police Department, later promoted to captain and eventually became chief of the department in 2013.

In November 2014, he was instrumental in breaking the largest narcotics operation in Schuylkill County that resulted in arrest warrants being issued for 76 people.

Since that time, Carado has made hundreds of drug arrests and has been involved in many multi-jurisdictional investigations.

In August 2016, Carado was deputized as a special federal officer/deputy U.S. marshal for the Lehigh Valley Violent Gang Task Force under the control of the Philadelphia Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Since this appointment, he has indicted 20 people to date for federal drug violations.

In addition, Carado has also shared his wealth of knowledge and resources to assist local agencies in investigations of child predators, homicides, drug crimes and sexual assaults.

Mathew Dillman, lodge president, said that Carado has never forgotten where he came from and is always offering services to assist brother and sisters of the lodge with their investigations.

“To date George has more than 500 drug cases to his credit,” Dillman said. “With the on-going opioid crisis plaguing the county, and country for that matter, George is making a difference, and therefore has been selected for the Officer of the Year Award.”

Prior to the award ceremony, lodge members elected officers for the year 2020.

New officers are:

• Matthew Dillman, retired from the Mount Carmel Police Department, president; Richard Wilson, retired chief of the Kulpmont Police Department; Shawn Butler, Butler Township Police Department, recording secretary; Joshua Pastucka, Shamokin Bureau of Police, financial secretary; and Christopher Hand, Frackville Police Department, associate secretary.

• Other officers are Schuylkill County Sheriff Joseph Groody, chaplain; David Stamets, Shenandoah Police Department, conductor; Robert Belfanti, Pennsylvania Board of Parole and Probation, Guard; and trustees David Sage, Coal Township Police; Schuylkill County Chief Deputy Sheriff Brian Tobin, and Raymond Walacavage, retired from Ashland Police Department.

Dillman said Lodge 25 was constituted on Aug. 20, 1941, and includes active and retired law enforcement officers from throughout Schuylkill and Northumberland counties.

“Our main goal is to improve the working conditions of law enforcement officers and the safety of those they serve through education, legislation, information, community involvement and employee representation,” Dillman said.

He added that the lodge also sponsors charities, memorials for fallen officers and supports programs for spouses and family members of law enforcement.

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

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP — The supervisors fired their former roadmaster, who served for 30-plus years, at a special meeting Dec. 1, citing “infractions of the employee handbook.”

Supervisors did not publicly identify the employee, but it is Gary Neidlinger.

Contacted by phone, Neidlinger said he has not made up his mind whether he will take legal action, and with that he declined to go on the record as to why he thinks he was fired.

He said he planned on retiring next year after what would then be 34 years of service to the township.

The motion to terminate Neidlinger was made by Vice Chairman Wendell Gainer, seconded by roadmaster Lynn Brown and unanimously agreed upon by Gainer, Brown and Chairman Leon Lutz. It was effective immediately.

Another motion by Gainer to cease Neidlinger’s benefits was also unanimously approved.

Gainer would not discuss the issue.

“Personnel is a touchy matter. That’s all we can say,” he said.

Lutz said likewise.

“It’s personnel,” he said by phone. “Sorry I can’t help you.”

Budget OK’d

Supervisors approved a $1,725,769.66 budget for 2020, and agreed to retain Jones & Company, Pottsville, to perform the 2019 audit for $2,800. Another bid was received from Lettich & Zipay, CPA, Pottsville, for $4,400.

No tax increase is called for. The property tax rate will be the same as last year, 3.5 mills. Other taxes include a $5 per capita, 1% earned income, $15 local services, 1% realty transfer and 5% amusement tax. Two thirds of the LST is kept by the township and the other third goes to the school district.

The township will reorganize Jan. 6 and the auditors Jan. 7; both meetings are at 7 p.m. The supervisors will continue to hold their regular meetings the third Monday of the month at 7 p.m.

Other business

• Harvey Drive resident Bruce Frymoyer explained a stormwater run-off problem to the board. Township manager Dawn Koch reported she had asked engineer Ryan Fasnacht to look at the problem area to determine whether there is something the township should be doing or whether the Conservation District should be involved. There are three houses in that location and the water runoff plan was made in 1993.

Gainer agreed Fasnacht should determine if the original plan is still in place as approved. He suggested Koch make a list of any changes and what the conservation district could offer.

• Nick Miller introduced himself to the board as the new fire chief of the North End Fire Company in Pine Grove.

• A request from Brown for approval to purchase an oil pan for the 2000 Mack truck at a cost of around $1,000 was approved.

James R. Ferrier

ORWIGSBURG — Authorities are seeking a Schuylkill Haven man who did not attend his preliminary hearing Tuesday on charges he was driving under the influence of drugs while also possessing them and paraphernalia in August in his hometown.

John P. Moses, 52, of 32 Center Ave., faces charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI, obstructed window and careless driving.

Magisterial District Judge James R. Ferrier ordered all charges held for court after the hearing. He also asked the court to issue a bench warrant for Moses, who had been free on $5,000 unsecured bail before Tuesday’s hearing.

Schuylkill Haven borough police alleged Moses was under the influence of drugs when he drove at St. Charles and West Main streets at 11:54 a.m. Aug. 18. Police said Moses had glassy, bloodshot eyes and failed field sobriety tests.

Furthermore, police said, Moses consented to a blood test, which showed he had drugs in his system.

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:

Jessica L. Bell, 26, of 243 S. Fourth St., Hamburg; DUI and speeding; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Colton L. Bender, 21, of 154 E. Second Mountain Road, Pottsville; possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI, stop sign violation and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Michael R. Farber, 54, of 599 Old 209 Road, Tamaqua; DUI, failure to notify police of accident and operating vehicle without valid inspection; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Charles R. Frantz, 53, of 166 Schaeffers Hill, Pottsville; illegal operation of vehicle without ignition interlock; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge bound over for court.

Rahman Q. Herrera, 41, of 115 N. Fourth St., Pottsville; DUI and no rear lights; charges held for court after preliminary hearing.

Shy Ann Kilraine-Richter, 30, of Pottsville; receiving stolen property, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and false reports to law enforcement; charges of receiving stolen property, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Kilraine-Richter pleaded guilty to false reports to law enforcement; Ferrier sentenced her to pay costs and spend nine months on probation.

Bryan S. Letcavage, 32, of 134 Lake Front Drive, Orwigsburg; DUI, DUI while suspended, driving wrong way, disregarding traffic lane, failure to yield to emergency vehicle, careless driving and reckless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge of DUI while suspended withdrawn, other charges bound over for court.

Melissa N. Madeo, 36, of 128 Pine View Lane, New Ringgold; three counts of theft by deception; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Jacqueline B. Robinson, 39, of 1621 Cherry St., Pottsville; possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI, speeding and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Juan G. Romero-Vazquez, 45, of 305 E. Norwegian St., Pottsville; strangulation, simple assault, harassment and disorderly conduct; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge of strangulation withdrawn, other charges bound over for court.

Malea M. Schoffstall, 26, last known address of 93 N. Greenview Drive, Schuylkill Haven; possession of drug paraphernalia and retail theft; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

David L. Somers, 34, of 110 E. Main St. Apt. 2, Schuylkill Haven; five counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, three of possession of a small amount of marijuana and one each of driving without a license, operating vehicle without required financial responsibility, seat belt violation and operating vehicle without valid inspection; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Travis M. Sterner, 31, of 195 Second Mountain Road, Orwigsburg; DUI, disregarding traffic lane, failure to drive at a safe speed and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

David A. Plachko

PORT CARBON — A New Philadelphia man charged with threatening another man in New Philadelphia on Sept. 30 had charges against him held for court during a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko.

David R. Cipko, 41, of 60 Valley Road, was arrested by state police Trooper Joseph Julian of the Frackville station and charged with one count each of terroristic threats, disorderly conduct and harassment.

Plachko determined the prosecution presented enough evidence to substantiate the charges and ordered all three held for Schuylkill County Court, where Cipko can plead guilty or enter a not guilty plea and request a trial.

Julian charged Cipko with confronting another man in the area of 23 Valley St., calling him ethnic slurs and then hitting the man in the face with a closed fist. Cipko then grabbed a baseball bat and started slamming it on the ground while saying he was going to end the other man’s life, Julian said.

Other court cases included:

Brandon M. Outridge, 21, of 569 Marion Lane, Broadheadsville; waived for court: retail theft.

Ishmael C. Snowell, 22, of 532 W. Bacon St., Pottsville; withdrawn: terroristic threats, simple assault and harassment.

Jeremy G. Wengert, 38, of 208 S. Centre Ave., Schuylkill Haven; waived for court: criminal use of a communications facility and conspiracy.

Jacob D. Mason, 22, of 1155 Bunting St., Llewellyn; waived for court: forgery, possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Luisa Marie Perez, 23, of 131 Pike St., Apt. 4, Port Carbon; held for court: simple assault.

Collin A. Bevan, 25, of 661 Mohrsville Road, Shoemakersville; waived for court: DUI-controlled substance, careless driving, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Steven F. Mattera, 35, of 27 Deer Park Drive, Pottsville; held for court: bad checks.

Joseph M. Kline, 25, of 1705 Centre St., Ashland; waived for court: theft and receiving stolen property.

Douglass K. Huyett, 47, of 803 N. Centre St., Pottsville; waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, conspiracy and criminal use of a communications facility.

Shayne N. Earle, 37, of 79 Back St., Apt. 1, Mary D; waived for court: simple assault and harassment.

Kaleb M. Herder, 19, of 1929 W. Market St., Pottsville; waived for court: possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI-controlled substance, endangering the welfare of children, obedience to traffic control signals, failure to keep right, driving the wrong way, not yielding at a roadway, making an unsafe U turn, reckless driving, turning movements and required signals, driving at an unsafe speed and careless driving.

Christopher J. Vrabel, 28, of 12 Second St., Middleport; waived for court: criminal mischief.

Krysten Kelly, 26, of 246 S. Second St., Saint Clair; waived for court: retail theft.

Barry T. Morgan, 32, of 602 Lewis St., Minersville; waived for court: burglary and criminal trespass, loitering and prowling at night and defiant trespass.

Cody Lee Adams, 30, of 142 W. Penn St., Schuylkill Haven; waived for court: DUI-highest rate, DUI, turning movements and required signals, driving at an unsafe speed and careless driving.

Nathan K. Fisher, 32, of 300 Lewis St., Apt. 706, Minersville; held for court: possession of drug paraphernalia, public drunkenness and disorderly conduct.

Erica Ayala, 38, of 444 Dowdentown Road, Pottsville; held for court: retail theft.

Christ J. Natale Sr., 45, of 109 S. Second St., Minersville; possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, forgery, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Anthony H. Catizone, 24, of 21 Shamokin St., Ashland; withdrawn: dealing in proceeds of illegal activities. Held for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, conspiracy and criminal use of a communications facility.

Kenneth T. Woodward, 56, of 473 Sunbury St., Minersville; withdrawn: bad checks.

Christopher Lee Madenford, 40, of 607 Fourth St., Mar Lin; waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, conspiracy, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communications facility.

Shawn A. Jessman, 27, of 155 S. Nice St., Frackville; withdrawn: conspiracy.

Kaitlin R. Wensus, 26, of 143 Arnot St., Saint Clair; withdrawn: simple assault and harassment.

Kevin R. Evitts, 50, of Box 167, 2430 Water St., Mahanoy Plane; waived for court: DUI, DUI-high rate, disregard for single traffic lane, careless driving and restrictions on alcoholic beverages.

Joseph R. Powell, 28, of 2 Wiggan St., New Philadelphia; waived for court: DUI-controlled substance, driving an unregistered vehicle and duties at a stop sign.

Jonathan M. Pauly, 25 of 716 W. Market St., Apt. A, Pottsville; withdrawn: simple assault. Waived for court: resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Pierre E. Exantus, 36, of 34 Carbon St., Minersville; dismissed: theft of services.

Shanika Y. Winds, 36, of 34 Carbon St., Minersville; dismissed: theft of services.

Barbara M. McManus, 50, of 230 Sanderson St., Pottsville; waived for court: retail theft, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Haley N. Meyer, 20, of 9 S. Morris St., Saint Clair; withdrawn: simple assault and harassment.

Vincent McDonald, 49, of 208 Market St., Cumbola; withdrawn: burglary. Waived for court: criminal trespass and theft.

Joseph Leone, 36, of 302 S. Second St., Saint Clair; waived for court: driving without insurance, driving an unregistered vehicle, driving a vehicle without a valid inspection, fraudulent use or removal of a registration plate, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Joseph J. Ganunis, 30, of 246 S. Second St., Saint Clair; waived for court: dealing in proceeds of illegal activities, possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, conspiracy, corrupt organizations and criminal use of a communications facility.

Anthony J. Kilker

SHENANDOAH — A Parkerford man charged along with two other men with stealing two electronic gaming machines from the Valero store on South Main Street on Sept. 21 waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker.

Jesse J. Lewiski, 38, currently of Montgomery County Prison, Norristown, was arrested by Shenandoah police Patrolman Leo Luciani and charged with receiving stolen property, forgery, conspiracy, impersonating a public servant and theft.

By waiving his right to a hearing, Lewiski will have to answer to the charges in Schuylkill County Court, where he can plead guilty or plead not guilty and request a trial.

Luciani said Lewiski entered the store, falsely presented himself as an agent of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and then, with the other two men, removed two Miele Manufacturing Pennsylvania Skills Games machines valued at $3,000 each.

Each of the machines contained an additional $1,000 in cash making the total theft to be $8,000, Luciani said.

Other court cases included:

George M. Cline Jr., 54, of 179 E. Main St., Box 180, Ringtown; waived for court: criminal trespass.

Brad R. Simpson, 49, of 372 W. Snyder Ave., Lansford; held for court: DUI, driving with a suspended or revoked license and careless driving.

Ronald L. Kennedy, 40, of 44 Walnut St., Box 32, Delano; withdrawn: theft.

April Ann Blackwell, 43, of 179 E. Main St., Ringtown; waived for court: criminal trespass.

Narolin Trinidad, 25, of 121 Pitt St., Tamaqua; waived for court: receiving stolen property, possession of drug paraphernalia and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Christina E. Hale

FRACKVILLE — A Tower City woman charged with a burglary in Ashland on Nov. 27 waived her right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale.

Valerie Sue Morris, 48, of 106 S. Sixth St., was arrested by Ashland Police Chief Gerard Daley and charged with one count each of burglary, criminal trespass, defiant trespass, criminal mischief, aggravated assault, disorderly conduct, DUI and fleeing or attempting to elude police.

By waiving her right to a hearing, Morris will now have to answer to all eight charges in Schuylkill County Court, where she can plead guilty or plead no guilty and request a trial.

Daley charged Morris with fleeing from a domestic incident at 21 S. Hoffman Blvd., refusing to stop and almost hitting a police officer. The investigation determined Morris went to the home of her ex-boyfriend, busted in the side door and entered without permission. The woman refused to leave only doing so when the man said he was calling the police, Daley said.

After being taken into custody, Daley said, Morris grabbed a thumb tack from a wall at the police station and tried to open her handcuffs. Daley said that while he was trying to take the thumb tack from Morris the woman attempted to kick him in the face.

Other court cases included:

Dimitry J. Taylor, 24, of 217 W. Arch St., Pottsville; held for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of a small amount of marijuana.

John Mazack, 64, of 408 Furnace St., Shenandoah; held for court: DUI, disregard for single traffic lane and careless driving.

Tina M. Crowe, 33, of 36 E. Mahanoy Ave., Apt. 3, Girardville; withdrawn: strangulation, simple assault and harassment.

Duane J. Bainbridge, 46, of 121 W. Chestnut St., Frackville; withdrawn: theft, institutional vandalism, public drunkenness, disorderly conduct and criminal mischief.

Ralph E. Miller, 61, of 115 Coal St., Room 25, Frackville; dismissed: simple assault and harassment.

Jed W. Dubuc, 28, of 3 W. Lakewood Ave., Barnesville; withdrawn: resisting arrest. Waived for court: possession of a controlled substance.

Danielle E. Vanhorn, 29, of 399 W. Main St., Girardville; held for court: possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI-controlled substance, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, duties at a stop sign and careless driving.

Michael E. Ridgley, 49, of 36 E. Mahanoy Ave., Apt. 3, Girardville; withdrawn: strangulation, simple assault and harassment.

(Staff writers Frank Andruscavage and Peter E. Bortner compiled this report)

Mahanoy City

The First United Methodist Church will hold “The Longest Night Service — A Service of Remembrance,” at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, at 400 E. Mahanoy Ave. All are welcome on the longest night of the year to “let the light of the Christ Child, born in a lowly stable, bring comfort, peace and joy into your lives this Christmas season,” according to a release.

Pottsville

The Pottsville Salvation Army is challenging the community for a $20 day on Friday, Dec. 20. It is asking people to put $20 into one of its kettles. If $5,000 is raised on that day, the Eastern Pennsylvania Division of the Salvation Army with match with $5,000 for the local branch. The local Rotary club will try to help the cause, according to the Pottsville Rotary Club bulletin.

Pottsville

Christmas at Yuengling Bicentennial Park will feature live reindeer, Santa and performances by Crimson Academy and free candy for children from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22. Organizers, in a release, expressed gratitude to Lasting Legacy and city volunteers. For more information, call 570-628-4417.

Shenandoah

The borough has an ordinance requiring people who walk pets on public streets or sidewalks to clean up after them. Those who do not are in violation of the law and can face a fine. Pet owners may not allow their animals to roam in the borough unleashed or out of control. Driving ATVs on public streets or areas where they are not allowed, such as parks or private property, also is unlawful. Anyone who witnesses such violations is asked to contact borough authorities. To reach borough police, call 570-462-1991.

Shenandoah

The Schuylkill Historical Fire Society Museum, 105 S. Jardin St., is open for fire department, school and private tours. There is no charge for tours but donations are gratefully accepted, according to the society website — http://www.theshfs.org — which also lists museum store hours as 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Appointments can be made for visits at other times by contacting President Leroy Knapp or Vice President John Kelly. Membership inquiries are welcome. The museum’s phone number is 570-462-4400. The museum was formally dedicated in 1999 with several commemorative events and a dedication parade. Housed in the former Columbia Hose & Steam Fire Company station, the site also serves as the society’s headquarters. Its collection of equipment and other artifacts has been lauded as outstanding. For more about the society and photos of antique equipment, go to its website at www.theshfs.org.

Shenandoah

Copies of “Shenandoah, A Look Back in Time,” compiled by retired Shenandoah Valley School District educator Robert C. Yudinsky, have been provided for display to the Shenandoah Area Free Public Library, Washington and Main streets; Catizone’s Barber Shop, North Main Street; Shenandoah Senior Living Community, East Washington Street, and Downtown Shenandoah Inc., North Main Street. A copy also is available at the 201 S. Main St. headquarters of the Greater Shenandoah Area Historical Society. The work involves a collection of photos of Shenandoah from the late 1800s to the 1970s — more than 200 photos over nine decades, segmented by categories that include the Main Street business district, residential streets, anthracite mining, volunteer fire companies, centers of learning and houses of worship.

Tamaqua

The borough has regulations regarding snow removal. Property owners are required to maintain a clear path, at least three feet wide, on sidewalks. Snow and ice must be removed from the pathways within 24 hours of the end of a snowstorm. Snow, ice and other material may not be thrown onto streets. Fines of $25 and up may be imposed on anyone caught throwing snow or ice into the street, or who fails to maintain a snow-free pathway. People who plow snow from in front of homes and businesses must remove any piles of snow they create. Anyone piling snow in the street or parking areas could be cited. Residents are asked to refrain from piling snow near fire hydrants or on top of storm drains and are encouraged to clear snow from such areas. For more information, call 570-668-3444 or 570-668-0300.

POTTSVILLE — This newspaper and Schuylkill County have settled a lawsuit over public access to certain records of the coroner’s office.

In settling the lawsuit, which was based on a request filed under the state Right to Know Law, the county agreed that the office of Dr. David J. Moylan III will provide the newspaper with a list of the name, cause and manner of death of everyone who died of a drug overdose in 2017 in the county.

As part of the settlement, the county and the newspaper each agreed to pay its own costs.

Andrew P. Heintzelman, managing editor of the newspaper, said it was a satisfactory conclusion to the lawsuit.

“We’re pleased that the court recognized the importance of access to public information for our readers, especially when it comes to reporting on a public health epidemic,” Heintzelman said Tuesday.

The newspaper filed the initial request for the information on May 10, 2018. The county declined to provide the names and locations of the deaths, citing the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

The newspaper appealed on May 31, 2018, to the state Office of Open Records, which agreed on July 12, 2018, that the material should be made public. The county then appealed to the court on Aug. 10, 2018.

Judge John E. Domalakes upheld the office’s determination on Oct. 18, 2018, and the county appealed to the Commonwealth Court on Nov. 16, 2018.

While the appeal was pending in Commonwealth Court, the newspaper and county settled the case on Dec. 6. The county commissioners voted on Dec. 11 to approve the settlement.

First Assistant County Solicitor Glenn Roth expressed satisfaction Wednesday with the result.

“Given the excellent professional relationship that the county and The Republican-Herald have, I’m glad that we were able to reach an amicable resolution of this matter,” he said.

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

POTTSVILLE — Joe Medica’s idea to create a destination where “Schuylkill County sports teams can practice and just have fun” became an entrepreneurial reality that was celebrated Wednesday.

The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and other dignitaries joined Medica for the ribbon-cutting for his new business venture, Athletics in Motion Inc .

AIM is located inside the Fairlane Village mall off Route 61 in Pottsville, next to Supershoes and Schuylkill Valley Sports.

“My son plays Little League in Orwigsburg. In talking with my friends and other coaches, everyone said there was nothing to do in the winter months for baseball players,” said Medica, an information technology manager in Orwigsburg, of his inspiration.

In addition to AIM, more economic growth may be on the way at the mall.

AIM is a multi-sport facility that provides 5,500 square feet of indoor turf-padded space. The flooring is made of an AstroTurf material with a five-mill padding underneath, according to Medica, which is ideal for all outdoor field sports, like soccer, baseball, softball, field hockey, football, lacrosse and track and field.

There are two batting cages with access to pitching machines; two pitching lanes that cater to both baseball and softball with many pitching mound options; and a 4,000-square-foot open space that can be used for speed and agility training and team sports drills.

Medica has a passion for sports. He served as a basketball coach for the Blue Mountain Recreation Commission and has coached Orwigsburg Little League and Blue Mountain midget football.

He attended a LionLaunch training a few years ago at Penn State Schuylkill to learn more about beginning a business.

“The program was great and I highly recommend it,” he said. His wife, Darcy, is PSU Schuylkill director of academic affairs.

LionLaunch is a community-based entrepreneurship program that provides funding and mentorship to start and grow businesses.

Robert S. Carl Jr., president and CEO of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, introduced guests and offered congratulatory remarks. With programs like LionLaunch and its Young Entrepreneurs Academy, the chamber promotes economic growth and helps individuals “live out their entrepreneurial dreams,” according to Carl.

Patty Coughlin, property administrator for the mall, was there to show support.

“We’re very excited for Joe and his wife. We have some very good things going on at the mall,” she said.

Rocco Arruzzo, Pennsylvania regional manager with Lexington Reality International, will be announcing additional growth at the mall in the new year, according to Coughlin.

AIM moved into the space in August and opened the second week in October. Tom McNulty Floors, of Schuylkill Haven, installed the flooring and Dan O’Neill, of Pottsville, was contracted to complete the cage work.

Medica’s wife joined him at Wednesday’s celebration. They have two sons, Joseph, 20, and Aidan, 12. Medica said he’s currently the only employee at the business, but his wife and Joseph sometimes assist.

“I would like to hire others, but I need more volume before I add paid employees,” he said. His “day job” remains in IT, he said.

Schuylkill County commissioners Chairman George F. Halcovage Jr. said Joe and Darcy Medica are two people who represent what the county is about, with their entrepreneurial spirit and emphasis on family and team togetherness.

“I wish you the best of luck and know that success will follow,” Halcovage said.

Commissioner Frank J. Staudenmeier, who has been a former youth coach, said AIM was a great initiative and investment on Medica’s part.

He said he and his fellow commissioners have attended a lot of ribbon-cuttings.

“The county continues to grow,” Staudenmeier said.

Commissioner Gary J. Hess sat on the LionLaunch panel when Medica was first pitching his idea.

“It’s nice to see a dream come true,” Hess said.

He said AIM would bring in additional foot traffic and was a great entity for the mall.

Dave Clews, president of the Pottsville Business Association, welcomed AIM to the community. Clews noted when businesses are doing well nearby, not only those in the downtown area, it pulls everyone together to be successful.

Medica thanked his family, MidPenn Bank and the mall staff.

AIM will be open from 6 to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and weekends by appointment from 8 a.m. to midnight. For more information, call 570-478-3050 or visit the website www.AthleticsInMotion.com.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

People applauded as Northeast Eagle Distributors, of Pittston, made a ceremonial delivery of the first Bud Light Seltzer to the Seltzer Hose Company on Wednesday in Seltzer.

Tony Romano, senior director, Bud Light at Anheuser-Busch, presented a plaque thanking the Seltzer Hose Company and the village of Seltzer for accepting the first delivery of Bud Light Seltzer.

Bud Light Seltzer will be hitting shelves nationwide starting in the new year.

Tremont man loses $1,500 in E-Bay scam

TREMONT — State police at Lancaster are investigating a theft that happened between Dec. 9 and 12.

Police said someone was trying to fraudulently sell a pickup truck on Facebook Market Place to Ricky Ney, 38, of Tremont.

The person selling the vehicle asked for payment in the form of E-Bay gift cards and had no intention to sell the truck.

As a result of the incident, police said, Ney lost $1,500 in E-Bay gift cards that he purchased.

LANDINGVILLE — A pellet stove sparked a fire that destroyed a large garage in South Manheim Township early Wednesday morning.

Landingville Fire Company Chief David Hoffman said crews were called to 49 Miller Lane at 1:24 a.m. and found the garage engulfed in flames.

Hoffman said the garage, owned by Roy Nagle, is about 30-feet by 50-feet and was completely destroyed.

“It’s a complete loss,” the chief said.

For the safety of firefighters, no one entered the building until the fire was almost extinguished.

“We were in a defensive mode almost the entire time,” Hoffman said explaining that, due to fire damage and a risk of collapse, firefighters battled the blaze from the outside.

Hoffman said it was determined the pellet stove sparked the blaze since there was nothing else in the portion of the building where the fire started that could have started it other than the stove.

He said the fire was ruled accidental.

In addition to the building, Hoffman said the items Nagle stored inside the garage, including things related to his contracting business, were destroyed as well.

The fire was brought under control in about 90 minutes and Hoffman said no injuries were reported.

The building sits about 1/8 of a mile from the nearest road, prompting a tanker task force to be called to shuttle water to the scene.

Hoffman said the initial dispatch sent firefighters from Landingville, Schuylkill Haven and Deer Lake-West Brunswick Township to the scene.

The tanker task force brought additional units from Auburn, Summit Station, Friedensburg, Mount Carbon and New Ringgold to the scene.

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

Sportsbooks at Pennsylvania casinos scored more than $316 million in total handle in November, according to numbers released Tuesday by the state Gaming Control Board.

That included more than $14.3 million wagered at Mount Airy Casino Resort in Monroe County and more than $4.3 million at Mohegan Sun Pocono in Plains Township.

Total revenue at Mount Airy was up more than 31.6% in November to nearly $18.9 million from more than $14.3 million last November.

Total revenue at Mohegan Sun Pocono was up more than 11.5% to more than $19 million from more than $17 million last November.

Overall, Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board numbers showed total revenue statewide was up more than 13% in November to more than $292 million.

David Parfrey, vice president of marketing for Mohegan Sun Pocono, said casino officials are seeing a slight crossover from slot guests to the new Unibet Sportsbook and there is a stronger crossover seen from table games.

He said he believes one reason revenue increased at Mohegan Sun Pocono is that marketing efforts in terms of programming and promotions were more strategic compared to prior years.

“Additionally, Mohegan Sun Pocono has invested significant capital over the past year to enhance our slot product, thus providing guests with an improved and refreshed slot floor,” he said. “A favorable calendar compared to prior year November is a factor as well.”

Dustin Gouker, analyst for PlayPennsylvania.com, said Pennsylvania has come a long way in a year.

“Plagued with relatively high gaming taxes and early hurdles to its online launch, Pennsylvania’s future as a legal sports betting jurisdiction was murky at the beginning,” Gouker said. “But despite the issues in its infancy, the state has proven to be attractive for operators and the market is truly beginning to flourish.”

Total revenue from sports wagering in November was more than $14.7 million, according to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

The totals are a far cry from November 2018 when the state’s first and only sportsbook, Hollywood Casino, generated $1.4 million in bets and $508,997 in gross revenue.

Since then, Pennsylvania has grown into the third-largest legal sports betting jurisdiction in the country, and continues to chase neighbor New Jersey, which accepted $562.2 million in bets in November, according to PlayPennsylvania.com.

“Online sports betting has unquestionably been the key driver of the state’s growth,” Gouker said. “Not only has online betting grown to account for an overwhelming majority of the state’s handle, but it has also helped spur growth among retail sportsbooks. That is a pattern that we saw in New Jersey, too.”

Regulated revenue sources include slot machines, table games, internet gaming, retail and internet sports wagering, fantasy contests and video gaming terminals.

Contact the writer: dallabaugh@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2115

POTTSVILLE — Schuylkill County property owners will not see a tax hike next year as the commissioners on Wednesday approved a 2020 budget of more than $66 million that includes a spending increase of about 3%.

“It’s always nice to present a budget that represents no tax increase,” Commissioner Frank J. Staudenmeier said. “Our expenses go up every year.”

The county real estate tax rate will remain at 15.98 mills and the per capita tax will stay at $5.

Spending in the general fund budget will be at $66,308,506, with projected revenues of $57,999,242. The difference of $8,309,264 will come from the general fund unassigned fund balance.

Director of Finance Paul E. Buber said the difference between the 2019 spending figure of approximately $64,200,000 and next year’s level is primarily because of increases in employee compensation, the county contribution to the retirement plan and the costs of the recycling program.

“We’re in good shape for this year going into next year because the assets exceed the liabilities,” he said.

Buber said the total cost of compensation and benefits in the budget will be approximately $49 million, an increase of about $14 million from the 2016 budget and about $1 million from the total in the 2019 spending package.

“A lot of that is being driven by our collective bargaining agreements,” he said.

The retirement contribution will be about $471,000 higher than last year’s, Buber said.

As for the recycling program, Buber said the county will examine that closely, since it is costing “significant money” to keep it going.

“We almost did a 180-degree turn from 2010 to 2020 concerning the recycling program,” he said. “Around 2013, we started to see the markets for the recyclables decline.”

In 2010, the revenue from the recycling program was right around $500,000, while expenses totaled about $250,000, according to Buber. However, estimates for 2020 indicate the revenue will be barely more than $100,000, while the expenses will surpass $500,000, according to Buber.

Furthermore, he said, the county’s vehicle fleet for collecting recyclables is getting old, with many dating to 2004. Buber estimated it would cost approximately $200,000 to buy new vehicles.

“We have an aged vehicle fleet,” he said.

Staudenmeier said the county faces several challenges in keeping the budget balanced.

“The last two years have been relatively flat” for growth, he said. “Our expenses go up every year.”

Staudenmeier said the county took “a major hit” when the Schuylkill Mall near Frackville closed. The buildings have been razed, thus continuing the financial loss, he said. However, he said the new industrial buildings being constructed there should help the county’s tax base in the future.

Commissioner Gary J. Hess also voiced optimism about the county’s future.

“If nobody sees the growth ... your eyes are closed,” he said. “I think the future is very bright. Working together ... everybody wins.”

Commissioners Chairman George F. Halcovage Jr. agreed.

“We are on the upswing,” he said. “We’re very blessed to have the county we do have.”

As part of the vote, the commissioners also approved budgets for the funded debt account, the capital project fund account, the capital reserve fund account, the internal service fund and the special revenue fund accounts.

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

The Christmas season fills everyone’s heads with visions of a decorated tree towering over mounds of presents, festive songs and a jolly man with reindeer. But there’s so much more to the season, including several major cultural holidays and celebrations. While the names may sound very different, they share similar values and traditions.

Kwanzaa, from the Swahili word meaning first fruit of the harvest, is a celebration of family and culture and social, cultural and spiritual renewal. Historically, grounded in agricultural celebration, it gives thanks for well-being and prosperity of the family and community, celebrates the common good, pays homage to ancestors and commits to life-affirming values which hold the community together. Today, the seven principals represent the best of who we are and echo our highest ideals.

In a nutshell, Kwanzaa is a celebration of family, culture and being the best you can be. Kwanzaa is celebrated Dec. 26 through Jan. 1 in the United States.

Hanukkah, or Chanukah, meaning “to dedicate,” is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the second century B.C. The temple was purified and the wicks of the menorah miraculously burned for eight days, even though there was only enough sacred oil for one day’s lighting.

According to Jewish law, Hanukkah is one of the less important Jewish holidays. However, Hanukkah has become much more popular in modern practice because of its proximity to Christmas. Lighting the candles, spinning the dreidel and eating fried foods (to commemorate the temple flame) are some traditions that are almost universally practiced throughout the holiday. Some are family-based and others communal. In North America and in Israel it is common to exchange gifts or give children presents at this time.

It’s observed for eight nights and days, starting on 25 Kislev. This year it will be commemorated from Dec. 22 to 30.

So, Hanukkah is an observation of culture, family and tradition.

Christmas, the compound word meaning Christ’s Mass, is a commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Celebrated on Dec. 25 as a religious and cultural holiday, it celebrates the coming of God into the world in the form of man to atone for the sins of humanity. Over time, Christmas celebrations have developed that incorporate regional and local cultures.

Popular modern customs include family reunions, gift giving, an exchange of Christmas cards, church celebrations, a special meal, caroling, a display of various decorations including a Christmas tree, parades and Santa Claus bringing presents to children.

Therefore, Christmas was historically a religious celebration that has modernized into many family and community-centered traditions including reflection and the common good.

It appears that although they may look different on the surface, these religious and cultural holidays share some common characteristics. Family-oriented and children-centered days of peace and nostalgia, traditional foods, ancient and modern cultural customs, winter (post-harvest) themes, community and family values, spirituality and the idea of trying to be the best person that you can be are all shared themes. We’re not so different after all.

Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas to all. May there be peace this holiday season.

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.

While today may be one of the coldest days we have for a while, with temperatures starting in the teens, there will be a warmer, dry spell through Christmas Day, according to the National Weather Service in State College.

Last-minute shoppers and holiday travelers on the East Coast should have an easier time getting around, without any predicted winter weather woes.

Those hoping for a white Christmas, however, may be out of luck.

Temperatures were expected to start at 15 degrees this morning, with highs only reaching 27, said Aaron Tyburski, a NWS meteorologist. Winds at 15 to 20 mph will make it even colder.

“It will generally be clear through Christmas, with clear and cold nights,” Tyburski said.

Temperatures will reach into the 30s on Friday and into the 40s on Saturday.

Each day after that through Christmas, the temperature should remain in the 40- to 45-degree range, he said.

A high pressure system near the Earth’s surface, as well as one at 18,000 to 20,000 feet, is responsible for the fairer weather, according to Tyburski.

“It’s not anything too abnormal for this time of year,” he said.

Usually in December, this area sees precipitation about every three to four days. Last year, there was light snow on Dec. 25.

“It’s going to be much drier, but there’s no big event,” Tyburski said.

While Schuylkill County should be precipitation free in the holiday stretch, in the western U.S. and the Pacific coast, meanwhile, there will be rain.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

STAFF REPORTS

The newly appointed executive director of the Pottsville Parking Authority wants to introduce himself to the community and mend some fences.

“The Parking Authority made changes and decisions the past year and may not have communicated the reasons for those decisions or clarified their goals and objectives effectively,” Ian Lipton, a well-known business owner and city native said in a statement released today.

On Oct. 4, the authority introduced a cell phone application to pay for parking in the city’s downtown. While old-fashioned coin meters can still be used on some side streets, they are no longer on Centre Street and motorists without a cell phone can not pay for parking there. The city had formerly allowed one hour of free parking in those areas.

The decision has met with criticism from the public and business community.

“This has caused you to feel the Pottsville Parking Authority is not working in your best interest. With your help and some patience we can change for the better. I’ll work hard with you. We can do better and we, you and I, can and will be successful in finding solutions best for our community. Under my leadership, the board and I will have only one goal: to serve you.”

At the time, the authority’s engineer, John Levkulic was the authority’s interim executive director. His contract as interim executive director expires at the end of January. Lipton was chosen for the role at a Nov. 9 meeting.

“I am asking you to contact me with feedback through email at execdirector@pottsvilleparking.com or call me Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between 9 AM and 4 PM at (570) 628-9184 to make an appointment to talk with me in person at 1 South 2nd St, Pottsville, 2nd floor,” Lipton said in his announcement.

Lipton, a life-long and well known resident of Pottsville operated Nathan’s Furniture in the city for 50 years.

“I successfully closed 5 stores between 2010 and 2017. My company operated for 90 years, with its home base in Pottsville. Without a fourth generation to lead, I closed the company and retired,” he said.

Lipton is the current chairman of the Greater Pottsville Sewer Authority as well as of the Pottsville Redevelopment Authority, of which he has been a member for 35 years. He was an executive officer on the board of the Pottsville Area Development Corporation and a founding member of Lasting Legacy for Pottsville. He served on the Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation board for 25 years and was a chairman of the Pottsville Bicentennial committee.

Hegins Township will ring in the new year with two new supervisors and a vote on a curative amendment to the township’s zoning ordinance. The amended ordinance addresses wind energy use.

Gary Hornberger and William Wolfgang will be sworn in at 7 p.m. Jan. 6, during the reorganization meeting. They replace supervisors Gary Harner and Michael Begis, whose terms expire at the end of this year. Hornberger currently serves as township secretary/treasurer.

The board of supervisors, which will include Hornberger, Wolfgang and current members Brad Carl, Doug Lucas and Bruce Klouser, will hold a regular meeting at 7 p.m. Jan. 8, and then hold a special meeting at 6 p.m. Jan. 23, to consider the curative amendment.

The purpose of the amended ordinance is “to permit the use of wind energy and to provide for the land planning, installation and construction of wind energy facilities in Hegins Township, subject to reasonable conditions that will protect the public health, safety and welfare,” the 33-page document states.

A copy of the proposed, amended ordinance is in the township office for public review. It lists, in part, definitions of wind energy terms and elements such as noise, height, setback distance, accessory buildings and structures, lighting, shadow flicker, ice throw, visual impact, safety and security, environmental impact and decommissioning.

In June, a wind energy developer, Clean Air Generation LLC, submitted a “substantive validity challenge” to the township asserting that the township’s current zoning ordinance was deficient because it did not address where wind energy development could occur. CAG, who has proposed a maximum of 75- to 80-wind turbines in Hegins and parts of Frailey, Porter and Tremont townships, had suggested permitting wind energy projects in Hegins’ S-3 special purpose mining zone. The Hegins Township supervisors agreed in August that CAG’s challenge had merit; however, the township came up with its own correction. They hired John R. Varaly, a Wilkes-Barre professional planning consultant, to draft the curative amendment.

Some of the major elements in the curative amendment are:

• A Principal Wind Energy Facility is defined as a “system of one or more wind turbines, which may include other accessory structures and buildings, appurtenant structures and facilities, designed as a principal use on a lot, wherein the power generated is used primarily for off-site consumption.”

• PWEF may be permitted as conditional use in any zoning district which bears an RE Renewable Energy Overlay District. The S-3 Special Purpose Mining District is hereby amended to include an RE overlay district upon the township zoning map.

• PWEF shall not be artificially lighted, except to the extent required by the Federal Aviation Administration, the state Department of Transportation Bureau of Aviation or other applicable authority that regulates air safety.

• Wind turbines shall be separated from each other by a minimum distance of five times the diameter of the rotors.

• The maximum wind turbine height shall not exceed 400 feet and comply with all regulations imposed by the FAA.

• In order for a tract of land to be eligible for a PWEF, it shall have a minimum lot size derived as follows: 2 acres times the number of wind turbines plus 18 acres equals the minimum lot size.

• PWEF shall be painted a non-reflective, flat color such as white, off-grey or grey unless required to be colored differently by FAA or BOA regulations.

• Wind turbines shall be set back from the nearest occupied building or non-occupied building on the participating landowner’s property a distance not less than the setback requirements for the zoning district or two times the turbine height, whichever is greater.

• The applicant shall provide an analysis with a map of the shadow flicker impacts of the project upon any non-participating landowner’s property that will be impacted by this effect.

• On-site transmission and power lines between wind turbines shall be placed underground.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

POTTSVILLE — Two Schuylkill County projects under the Community Development Block Grant program have been completed under budget, with the commissioners on Wednesday voting to deduct the cost from the one and transfer money from the other.

Under the votes, the cost of the Port Carbon project will drop to $83,127.93 from $85,100, while $368.50 in money from the Barry Township project will be transferred to the demolition line item.

“That was completed” in November 2018, Michelle O’Connell of the grant writer’s office said of the Barry Township project, which involved making the municipal building handicap accessible. She said the money is not yet earmarked for any specific demolition project.

O’Connell said the Port Carbon project involved building 12 curb cuts on Pine Street. As was the case with the Barry Township building, the Port Carbon project was done in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, she said.

The commissioners also approved two supplemental budget appropriations for 2019.

In one, they voted to spend $287,436 for the Mental Health/Developmental Services program. Director of Finance Paul E. Buber said the money comes from the state Department of Human Services.

In the other, they voted to spend $43,589 for the county Department of Human Services. Buber said that money also is coming from the state Department of Human Services and will be spent on bridge housing.

Also at the request of Buber, the commissioners approved budget adjustments for the following county departments and offices for the amounts indicated:

• Courts, $5,000

• Domestic Relations Office, $2,000

• Magisterial District Judges, $3,043

• Mental Health/Developmental Services, $85,024

• MIS Department, $2,770

• Prison, $7,000

• Prothonotary, $400

• Public Works, $3,500

• Register of Wills, $250

• Solid Waste Management, $634

• Tax Assessment, $350

Buber said all adjustments involve transferring budgetary authority from one line item to another with no additional spending. He also said the amount for Mental Health/Developmental Services involves savings from some line items being transferred to other programs.

Also at Wednesday’s meeting, the commissioners voted to do the following:

• Renew the excess workers’ compensation insurance policy with Midwest Employers Casualty Co. to Jan. 1, 2021. First Assistant County Solicitor Glenn Roth said the annual premium cost will be $109,997 for the policy, which will cover expenses exceeding $500,000.

• Adopt a resolution authorizing the Schuylkill County Visitors Bureau to do business as Explore Schuylkill and to file any necessary paperwork to register the fictitious name with the Pennsylvania Department of State.

• Approved two contracts for the coroner’s office. The first, a two-year one with Docuscript Medical Transcription Services, will start this month and will cost $600 to $700 per month. The second, a one-year pact with MolecularDX LLC for toxicology services, is renewable for one-year intervals and will include charges based on the company’s fee schedule for each year.

• Reappointed Anthony Baran, New Ringgold, and Col. Craig Ray, Pottsville, to five-year terms on the Schuylkill County Airport Authority to run from Jan. 1, 2020, through Dec. 31, 2024.

• Approved an updated sick leave policy.

• Terminated Pamela Smith, Minersville, as a part-time corrections officer.

• Promoted Devon Motel, McAdoo, to county caseworker 2 from county caseworker 1 with Children & Youth.

• Appointed Kaitlyn Bertasavage, Pine Grove, as a county caseworker 2, and Melissa Keifer, Schuylkill Haven, as a county caseworker 1, with Children & Youth.

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

D.G. Yuengling & Son had a little fun — we think — when one of the big boys of brewing came to town on Wednesday.

Bud Light, part of Anheuser-Busch, visited Seltzer, a small village in Norwegian Township, to introduce its new Bud Light Seltzer. “The way we see it, why wouldn’t we give the people of Seltzer the first taste of Bud Light Seltzer?” the company said in announcing the promotion.

And so dozens from the Seltzer Hose Company joined with Bud Light officials to welcome a truck full of the new product.

Yuengling, headquartered just a few miles away in Pottsville, took notice. To Bud Light’s picture posted on Twitter of seltzer cases stacked in a pyramid in front of a Village of Seltzer sign, Yuengling replied, simply, “Get off my lawn.”

The Brewers Association earlier this year ranked Anheuser-Busch No. 1 and Yuengling No. 6 among top 50 overall brewing companies. Among craft brewers, Yuengling is No. 1.

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN -- People and their furry friends braved the cold weather Thursday to take a walk in Bubeck Park.

Colder temperatures are expected today and Saturday with highs in the mid-30s. 

Warmer, dry weather is expected next week heading into Christmas, with temperatures climbing to near 50 Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

POTTSVILLE — A candle shop is opening its doors this week in the city.

Loki & Layla Candle Co. will hold a grand opening Saturday at its headquarters at 300 N. Centre St., Pottsville. It will be attended by local artisans and artists, with music by Pottsville native Terry James, podcast interviews by Interviews With Everyday People, and wine sampling by Bouchette Vineyards. The event is 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Loki & Layla Candles LLC was formed in June 2019 by Joseph Barnes and Ashley Michel, and is known for its three lines of candles. They produce hand-poured soy candles and wax melts, and are extending into lotions, oils and pillar candles. The owners said their store will house a handful of local artisans and artists, and they will have a working relationship with local wineries and breweries across Pennsylvania to provide taste testing and sampling.

They currently offer over 50 various scents between three candle lines, and the store will also provide classes and seminars, as well as white-labeling services for companies interested in branding their own unique line of candles. Of their sales, $1 from each candle purchase goes to various charities, and Loki & Layla Candles will host wildlife and animal seminars on location throughout the year.

For more information on Loki & Layla candles, visit the website at lokilaylacandles.com.