ORWIGSBURG — In a meeting held by online video conference, virtual learning and how students with special needs will be accomodated was discussed by the Blue Mountain school board Thursday.

To maintain distance between the public and the board during the coronavirus outbreak, members conducted the meeting through Zoom Meetings, an online video conferencing platform, with the public viewing and participating in the meeting by clicking on a link or by calling in through phone.

A video of board members in the Blue Mountain Middle School auditorium played on computer screens, as nine members of the public were visible on screens.

Superintendent David Helsel acknowledged district officials’ plans for online instruction “ran into a few difficulties” before the outbreak forced Gov. Tom Wolf to order all schools closed last Friday.

Before closing, district officials planned to complete classroom activities to prepare for the schools to close short term. Teachers conducted activities to simulate a closure and students completed online and other activities that would be employed when the schools were shut down.

In a letter to parents last week, the superintendent said the activities “provide teachers and students an opportunity to troubleshoot problems and provide practice in the use of these educational tools.”

“The teachers worked pretty hard,” he said. “I thought the middle school was pretty close to being ready.”

At Blue Mountain High School, Helsel said teachers were using multiple platforms for instruction, resulting in confusion among students.

“Some were using the website, some were using Unified Classroom, some using Google Docs,” he said.

Instructing grades K-2, he said, was “tough” with getting devices ready for the district’s youngest students. In the letter, the superintendent encouraged parents to work with those students to complete the simulation.

Helsel said during Thursday’s meeting assisting special education students with an IEP or other learning accomodations could be tricky with schools closed for an extended period of time.

“You can’t meet those accomodations on an online format and so you run the risk of not meeting them,” he said. “We’re in a tough spot, we’re not permitted to bring students in because we’re closed but we can’t give accomodations under the current format.”

Asked how many IEPs could be adjusted to an online platform if parents were willing to allow it and if services like physical therapy could be offered, Helsel said it is “up in the air” on what district officials are allowed to do during the closure.

The situation is even more fluid, he added, with the governor’s order Thursday ordering all non-life-sustaining businesses in the state to close by 8 p.m. that evening to curtail the virus’ spread. Schools and colleges are listed among businesses ordered closed.

He said students with an IEP who attend cyber charter schools have one prepared for the online school format, but it typically doesn’t work out.

“In my experience, a number of those students really struggle in that format and they come to us well behind and they’re lost ground instead of grown,” Helsel said.

District officials could explore allowing teachers to post information packets online to allow all students to keep up skills learned in school, he said.

“I’m sure that our teachers would be willing to do something like that,” Helsel said to the board.

He said guidance on how the district should proceed with remote learning is needed from the state Department of Education.

During the meeting, the superintendent noted the state’s decision to cancel statewide tests due to the pandemic. Board Secretary Michelle Z. Vesay asked how students will be impacted with the tests being suspended.

Helsel said that the question “needs to be answered moving forward.”

“We have to wait,” he said to Vesay. “As new information comes forward, we’ll make the decisions we can.”

Later in the meeting, Helsel announced the district received approval to serve meals to students who qualify to receive one under the federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program. He said they would likely be distributed Mondays and Wednesdays.

Board members plan to conduct their next regular meeting through similar electronic methods at 7:15 p.m. Thursday, March 26.

Contact the writer: clee@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6028; @Cleespot on Twitter

The Municipal Authority of the Borough of Shenandoah will hold a special meeting at 3 p.m. today, March 20, at the office of the authority at 424 Raven Run Road, Lost Creek. The authority will make a “significant” announcement at the meeting.

Robert S. Carl Jr. joined President Donald Trump and his administrative staff Friday during a Small Business Administration conference call, addressing business leaders’ concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Carl, president and CEO of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, also took part in conference calls with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-9, Dallas.

Meanwhile, the county’s state legislators have been fielding calls from business owners and are helping those seeking waivers from Gov. Tom Wolf’s order to shut down all non-life-sustaining business in Pennsylvania.

“The president wanted to restate his strong commitment to small businesses. They are the heart of America and will be critical during time of recovery,” Carl said. U.S. Secretary of Treasury Steven Mnuchin also sat in on that meeting.

“They spoke about the relief that’s already been passed. They want everyone to know that those resources are out there and every opportunity available to us, (at the chamber) we’ll send it out almost in real time,” Carl said.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has a robust website and also has a live blog, he said. The county chamber will be doing more with them, Carl said. Applications for relief are available through the Department of Community and Economic Development, and additional information is available on Meuser’s and governor’s websites, he said.

In order to receive relief, however, business operators have to put in an application. Carl said Meuser advised applicants to include why their business is supporting a life-sustaining business, the number of employees and if their company has the ability to practice social distancing between workers.

“All those reasons added up may make it viable,” Carl said of the request.

Some seeking relief have already made some “headway,” according to Carl. Through efforts with the state delegation, including Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, Rush Township; Rep. Neal P. Goodman, D-123, Mahanoy City; Rep. Jerry Knowles, R-124, Rush Township; and Rep. Mike Tobash, R-125, Pottsville, “coal mining” was recognized as a life-sustaining business.

Pennsylvania Coal Alliance Executive Director Rachel Gleason issued the following statement Friday regarding Wolf’s decision to clarify his statement on business closures and recognize coal mining as a life-sustaining business:

“Representing the 18,000 coal-related jobs within Pennsylvania, the PA Coal Alliance applauds the governor’s decision to keep coal mining operations open during this critical time. Coal remains an essential part of Pennsylvania’s electricity generation and steel making processes and is unmatched by any other fuel source in affordability, flexibility, reliability, resiliency and security. In 2019, more than 36 million tons of PA-mined coal was used for power generation, extending to 15 states,” Gleason said.

Carl said he has been in regular and frequent contact with Argall’s office and his staff who have been very helpful in providing important information.

“It is clear that many businesses are upset about the nonessential vs. essential business decision made by Governor Wolf. I know the Senate wrote a letter of concern and we have gotten many calls of concern. I have no idea how the decisions were made. Even looking at supply chains, there seems to be some inconsistencies and unintended impacts,” Carl said.

“Our members and our greater community have been amazing in adapting to this uncharted situation and are being very innovative both to help our community and work to prop up their businesses in many ways. I am very proud of how they are reacting and their fortitude in spite of this serious and unprecedented situation,” Carl said.

The state delegation has already heard from constituents and industry leaders about how the COVID-19 pandemic is being addressed from a business standpoint.

Argall is working to reduce the impact of the governor’s order. A list of business types that would be affected by this order is available at www.pasenategop.com/covid-19-resources. Any company that believes it should be considered a life-sustaining business can apply for a waiver at ra-dcexemption@pa.gov. Business owners can address questions about whether they need to close by emailing ra-dcedcs@pa.gov.

Argall is also encouraging businesses and nonprofits who have suffered economic losses during the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak to consider applying for low-interest loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Loans are available through SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, which helps businesses that are unable to meet financial obligations and operating expenses during an emergency situation. Loan amounts are calculated based on the actual economic injury and a company’s financial needs.

Additional information is available by contacting SBA’s disaster assistance customer service center by calling 800-659-2955 or email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

“My office has received requests for information about how to apply for the waivers from many different types of businesses. We have instructed them to visit our website in applying for those waivers. I am in 100% agreement with the Senate Leadership statement issued last night,” Argall said Friday.

Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati, R-25; Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, R-34; Senate Majority Whip John Gordner, R-27; and Senate Appropriations Chairman Pat Browne, R-16, issued the following response to the governor’s order that “non-life-sustaining” employers in Pennsylvania close their physical locations:

“We understand the dire health crisis COVID-19 presents in the Commonwealth. We understand that we are in uncharted territory as we try to prevent the spread of this deadly disease.

“At the same time, we know that every business is life-sustaining to someone — whether employers or employees. The economic devastation that is being caused will last long into the future, especially for small-business owners. Because of the manner in which the Governor released this information, we have more questions about his unilateral decision than there are answers.

“We are calling on the Governor to provide a process for the state’s employers to appeal this decree. Further, the Governor and the Secretaries of Labor and Industry and Community and Economic Development need to become transparent about their decision-making process and publicly answer the many questions this has raised.

“In the meantime, we strongly encourage employers and workers to learn more about resources that may be available to help them cope with the challenges that lie ahead. We will continue to do our part in ensuring every effort is made to help employers and our communities emerge from this crisis stronger than ever.

“We remain committed to working cooperatively with the Governor and state agencies to slow the spread of this dangerous virus and ease the impact of this crisis on individuals, families and employers. While at the same time, we will stand with our small-business owners who now face challenges that seemed unfathomable just a few weeks ago.”

The House Republican Leadership issued a similar response:

“The Wolf Administration set off a panic tonight (Thursday) throughout the Commonwealth with its edict to shut down employers. The ill-prepared actions, announced after normal business hours, are not only an economic blow to every worker in the state right now but will have ramifications long into the future.

“Any announcement in an emergency event such as this calls for clear and efficient lines of communication, but the open-ended and short-noticed announcement today is the complete opposite and only adds to the sense of chaos many Pennsylvanians are struggling with tonight.

“These actions will shut down many small, family-owned shops and businesses, not only for the duration of this event, but possibly, and probably, forever.

“The sprawling and confusing list provided by the governor is provided with no explanation, and we will explore all avenues available to us to determine whether the action he’s taken is allowed within our state Constitution.

“It is incumbent upon all state leaders to recognize that long after we have defeated this public health threat, we must have the ability to create economic opportunities for all Pennsylvanians.

“Therefore, we are compelled to raise our voice on behalf of millions of hard-working Pennsylvanians who are already making enormous sacrifices in the face of this worldwide event, none of which was of their own choosing.”

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Borough of Minersville is closing all playgrounds and basketball courts.

Playground equipment is a contact surface for the spread of the virus, borough officials explained in a prepared statement. With schools being closed, officials have observed a significant volume of youth gathering within close contact. This measure will help stop the spread of the virus and protect the citizens. The police department will patrol the areas to ensure compliance.

The Walking Trail will remain open, but citizens are asked to practice social distancing.

The Borough of Frackville is also closing parks.

David A. Plachko

PORT CARBON — A Rehrersburg man charged with forging signatures on two checks he then cashed at separate BG’s Value Market locations last year waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko.

Jason M. Dougherty, 41, of 596 Godfrey St., Box 241, was arrested by state police Trooper Russ Rothermel of the Schuylkill Haven station and charged with one felony count of forgery and one misdemeanor count each of theft, receiving stolen property, bad checks and identity theft.

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

Rothermel charged Dougherty with cashing one check in the amount of $413.53 on Aug. 8 and another in the amount of $716.89 that same day.

The checks were from the Coal Mine Tap Room in Saint Clair and made out to Matthew Stegman and were cashed after Dougherty provided identification.

Rothermel said that Dougherty was interviewed by state police at Jonestown for a similar incident in their coverage area and at that time admitted to cashing the fraudulent checks.

Other court cases included:

Dominic A. Guido, 18, of 331 Cherry St., Saint Clair; waived for court: theft, receiving stolen property and fleeing or attempting to elude police.

Shawn M. Kutsmeda, 31, of 47 Coal St., Port Carbon; waived for court: DUI, DUI-high rate, duties at a stop sign and careless driving.

Anthony D. Smith, 52, of 189 Valley St., New Philadelphia; held for court: driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, driving without insurance, driving a vehicle with a suspended registration, driving a vehicle without a valid inspection and possession, sale or use of display documents.

Becky M. Leader, 41, of 1222 Scott St., Kulpmont; held for court: DUI-controlled substance, careless driving and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Walter Medina, 62, of 96 Coal St., Port Carbon; held for court: DUI-highest rate and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Daniel Stoudt Jr., 43, of 1104 Broadway Ave., Reading, and 18 Water St., Apt. 5, New Philadelphia; waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communications facility, unauthorized use of motorized or other vehicles and driving with a suspended or revoked license.

Coleen E. Kissling, 31, of 737 E. Broad St., Tuscarora; waived for court: retail theft, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Cody John Gaumer, 32, of 314 S. Second St., Saint Clair; waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.

Rosemary Kiehner, 60, of 2057 Woodglen Road, Pottsville; waived for court: DUI-highest rate and careless driving.

Michael N. Krause, 29, of 30 White Birch Road, Orwigsburg; waived for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Devin B. Harris, 20, of 127 Saint Clair Ave., Pottsville; waived for court: possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Thomas C. Kintzel III, 40, of 465 E. Peacock St., Pottsville; waived for court: defiant trespass, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Amy Jo Kemmerer, 33, of 5189 Nuangola Road, Mountain Top; held for court: turning movements and required signals, making repairs to or selling offensive weapons, driving a vehicle without a valid inspection, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(Staff writer Frank Andruscavage compiled this report)

Deeds

Ashland — Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC to Hulda Malvoisin-Joseph; 212 S. Hoffman Blvd.; $11,000.

Hulda Malvoisin-Joseph to Dada’s Life Changer LLC; 212 S. Hoffman Blvd.; $11,000.

Ashland and Butler Township — Jean Kramer to RR&K LLC; property on Nater Street; $75,000.

Cressona — First Citizens Community Bank to Imobiliaria LLC; 141 Pottsville St.; $28,100.

East Union Township — Steven Slavinsky and Adam Slavinsky to Adam Slavinsky; property on Route 924; $1.

Eldred Township — Rick R. and Laurie Kehler, Ray A. Zimmerman and Samuel R. and Melissa Zimmerman to Jason W. and JoAnn M. Love; 0.41-acre property on Fairview Road, Pitman; $1.

Jason W. and JoAnn M. Love to Jason W. and JoAnn M. Love; 95 Fairview Road, Pitman; $1.

Hubley Township — Barry J. Miller, Glenn H. and Leslie Miller, Virginia and Ralph W. Schwalm, Kenneth A. and Gail Miller and Darryl N. Miller to Anthony J. and Lorna J. Smyk; 1528 E. Mountain Road; $20,000.

New Philadelphia — Virginia M. Bartashus, executrix of the Estate of James Anthony Bosefski, to Virginia M. Bartashus; 73 Water St.; $1.

Virginia M. Bartashus, executrix of the Estate of James Anthony Bosefski, to James M. Bosefski; 75 Water St.; $1.

Palo Alto — NS162 LLC to Lourdes Castillo and Crystal Asencios; 110 Bacon St.; $16,000.

Rush Township — M&T Bank to PNG Properties LLC; 201 Grier Ave., Barnesville; $25,200.

Tamaqua — Shawn P. Knowles, executor of the Estate of James J. Knowles, to Shawn P. and Nadine M. Knowles; 325 Owl Creek Road; $1.

Tax preparers were forced to find alternative ways to help people file their tax returns Friday without interacting with them in their offices.

Accountants and tax preparation services were among the businesses that aren’t “life-sustaining” that Gov. Tom Wolf ordered to shut down or face penalties as COVID-19 spreads.

After that announcement Thursday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced Friday that Tax Day would be extended from April 15 to July 15.

Mark Mihalka, who operates 11 Liberty Tax Service locations in Northeast Pennsylvania from Hazleton to Carbondale with his brother Joe, said while Tax Day was extended, his businesses will still be open remotely for people to file their returns if they need their refunds.

“People out of work may need their refunds,” he said.

The governor’s order that all non-life-sustaining businesses in Pennsylvania close prompted Liberty Tax Service to set up other options to serve customers remotely without opening their offices:

• When anyone calls one of their offices, someone answers. Mihalka placed signs on offices stating, “Office hours are not permitted, but we are still here for you.”

• Liberty Tax Services locations now have boxes where people can drop off their tax filings. The businesses also are offering “virtual tax pro” allowing people to get their taxes done remotely from anywhere by a live tax expert.

• Mihalka is considering allowing transportation if people need pickup service for their tax documents.

“I’ll come and grab them with gloves on if that’s what it comes down to,” he said. “It was quite alarming to try to get everything in place and make sure everyone is safe and healthy and take care of our families and staff, but we still have to remain open, just not with office hours.”

• People can use smartphones to upload tax documents and they can call one of the offices, 1-855-586-3281 or Mihalka at 570-237-0541 if they have any questions.

• The postal service is a life-sustaining business remaining open so documents also could be mailed.

• Mihalka said his tax preparation service businesses also have been getting many calls from clients asking about the proposed stimulus plan and how much they could receive in cash payments. As of early Friday, that was not yet determined.

Contact the writer:

dallabaugh@citizensvoice.com; 570-821-2115;

@CVAllabaugh on Twitter

On Thursday, Gov. Tom Wolf ordered all non-life-sustaining businesses to close their physical locations as the COVID-19 pandemic worsens.

Newspapers are among the industries and businesses exempt from the order, and The Republican-Herald will continue to gather and publish the latest vital information the public needs in this time of national crisis.

The Republican-Herald’s news reporting is available on a subscription basis, because we must be able to pay our employees and production costs. However, as the number of announcements from government and health officials mounted, on March 15 we began posting all coronavirus stories free online to non-subscribers so the general public could read them and be more quickly informed of the developing emergency. We will continue to do so until the crisis has passed.

The Republican-Herald strives to be a reliable source of accurate, current information and we will be doing our best during this crisis to inform our readers.

Our offices, however, are temporarily closed to the public. Reach us by mail at 111 Mahantongo St., Pottsville 17901. Email any news, or anything you see or hear that might be of the public interest, to editorial@republicanherald.com. You may also contact Managing Editor Andy Heintzelman at 570-628-6103 or aheintzelman@republicanherald.com, or City Editor Brian Smith at 570-628-6005 or bsmith@republicanherald.com.

For advertising questions or information, contact Advertising Director Dawn Fisher at 570-628-6053 or dfisher@republicanherald.com, or Director of Interactive Media Aimee Eckley at 570-628-6052 or aeckley@republicanherald.com

If you wish to become a subscriber to The Republican-Herald, call 570-628-5985 or go to www.republicanherald.com/subscribe.

You can reach our main switchboard at 570-622-3456.

The Republican-Herald will continue to be your best source of local news and information at this time, and will remain so after this crisis ends, which it will.

Michael A. Joyce Publisher

FRACKVILLE — The North Schuylkill School District began its free “Grab-N-Go” bagged breakfast and lunch program Friday, resulting in almost 500 students receiving meals.

The program was launched at three fire company locations within the district and will continue during the coronavirus pandemic that caused schools to close and restrictions involving contact between members of the public.

The school district is working in partnership with The Nutrition Group to provide district students free meals that can be picked up at the Good Will Hose Company in Frackville, the Rangers Hose Company in Girardville and the Washington Fire Company in Ashland. The scheduled time for pickup is 11 a.m. to noon. Next week, pickup days are Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The demand for the free meals was overwhelming at all three sites, with all meals distributed in short order, according to district Superintendent Robert J. Ackell.

“We prepared 1,800 meals and they were grabbed in the first 10 minutes,” Ackell said. “By 11:10, all three sites had all meals gone. Basically, we have a whole crew back at the school right now looking to restock the meals and get them out real quick. We’re preparing 900 more right now. We’re doing the best we can. We’re basically depleting all of the food we have in our high school and our elementary building to prepare these meals. All administrators and cafeteria workers, along with a handful of secretaries, are in right now preparing the second round of meals as we speak.”

Ackell said people began to show up early to each firehouse, which led to distribution before 11 a.m.

“As the administrators and others were setting up at each site, people were coming early and, because of social distancing, we didn’t want them to wait until 11 o’clock. We let them grab and go,” Ackell said. “Because of social distancing, there was no reason for us to let people stand in a line and wait until 11 o’clock. We will go past noon if needed to distribute everything we have.”

Because it was the day before a weekend, each bag contained six meals — three breakfasts and three lunches. The bags are packed at the high school.

“The bags are really heavy and take up a lot of room in each vehicle,” Ackell said. “Each bag has enough food for six meals, including milk and juices.”

Ackell added, “The response has been outstanding. It’s something that our communities need and we’re so glad that we can help at this time.”

After the distribution, Ackell called back with a total of the meals.

“We served 495 students, which would be 2,970 meals,” Ackell said. “We made three trips to some sights. We were pulling stuff out of the freezer to give to the students. Things like juice and breakfast treats were actually frozen when we gave them out. We’d rather give them frozen than nothing.”

Ackell said there will be site distributions on three days. On Monday and Wednesday, there will be four meals — two breakfasts and two lunches — per student to last them two days. The third day will be Friday, when six meals for three days will be provided.

Ackell added, “The district would like to directly thank Kim Shatalsky, The Nutrition Group food service manager, and all of the wonderful cafeteria employees who have done an amazing job preparing for this venture. The district would also like to thank the other civic organizations and numerous people that have offered to volunteer.”

Meals are free to anyone under the age of 18. No ID is required. All breakfast and lunch items will follow the USDA guidelines. Any student taking a Grab-N-Go must leave the property immediately and may not stay to eat, play and/or socialize.

Ackell explained in a Facebook post the reason why the meals are only being distributed in three of the district’s communities.

“I would like to provide some clarification on why Ashland, Frackville and Girardville are being utilized for the free Grab-N-Go breakfast and lunches,” he wrote. “The three sites that we are using are the only municipalities within the school district that have been approved by the USDA based on the eligibility guidelines of the Seamless Summer Options programming. We would have liked to set up distribution sites in Butler Township, Conyngham Township, Gordon, Ringtown and Union Township, but the district must stay in compliance of the federal guidelines. Please understand that the North Schuylkill high school and elementary buildings were not approved as a distribution site either. We are aware that St. John’s Lutheran Church in Ringtown will also be serving lunches for students. Thank you for your understanding. If you have any questions please contact me at rackell@northschuylkill.net.”

For those students living in the Ringtown area, St. John’s Lutheran Church is partnering with St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Ringtown Rotary Club and Ringtown Food Pantry to provide lunches for Ringtown area school children. Lunches are pick up only and can be obtained at the social hall of St. John’s, 106 W. Main St., between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Call 570-889-3755 or 973-906-9636 for information or to indicate the number of lunches needed. Prior registration, however, is not required to obtain a free lunch. The program began March 16.

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

POTTSVILLE — A Tamaqua woman will spend time in prison and on probation after a Schuylkill County judge sentenced her Monday for trespassing on a property in the borough in July 2018.

Jennifer L. Dipietro, 36, must serve 210 days to 23 months in prison, plus an additional two years on probation, Judge Jacqueline L. Russell decided.

“People who get in trouble often do things that don’t make a lot of sense,” Russell said before imposing her sentence, which also requires Dipietro to pay costs and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account, undergo drug and alcohol and mental health evaluations, have no contact with the victim, perform 40 hours community service and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

A jury convicted Dipietro on Feb. 6 after a one-day trial over which Russell presided, of criminal trespass and defiant trespass. Tamaqua police had charged her with entering the Family Dollar store in the borough on July 18, 2018, after she had been warned not to do so.

Also on Monday, Russell revoked the parole of Corin L. Reed, 37, of Pottsville, and recommitted her to prison, where she will remain until her sentence runs out on Sept. 20.

Reed, who admitted violating her parole by committing new crimes, using drugs, failing a drug test and not making payments on her court-ordered costs and fees, originally pleaded guilty on Feb. 7, 2019, to possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a small amount of marijuana.

At that time, Russell placed her on probation for 12 months. On Aug. 7, 2019, she revoked Reed’s probation and sentenced her to serve two to 12 months in prison.

Pottsville police charged Reed with committing her crimes on April 7, 2018, in the city.

In another Monday case, Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin sentenced Joshua Albani, 40, of Jim Thorpe, to serve eight to 24 months in a state correctional institution, pay costs, a $600 fine, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, a $50 CJEA payment, a $50 bench warrant fee and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. He made Albani’s prison sentence concurrent with ones from Carbon and Lehigh counties.

“Good luck to you. I hope you make it,” Dolbin told Albani.

Albani pleaded guilty on Dec. 27, 2019, to possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under suspension. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of operating vehicle without valid inspection.

Rush Township police charged Albani, who wore a prison jumpsuit during Monday’s hearing, with possessing drugs and paraphernalia on June 15, 2017, in the township.

A Pottsville man will not have to spend more time in prison after admitting Tuesday to a Schuylkill County judge that prosecutors could prove he entered property of the Pottsville Housing Authority without permission in July 2019.

Ronald J. Harper Jr., 33, pleaded no contest to criminal trespass.

Russell accepted the plea and, pursuant to an agreement between prosecutors and the defendant, sentenced Harper to time served to 23 months in prison with immediate parole, pay costs and $50 to the CJEA, have no contact with the victim, perform 20 hours community service and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Pottsville police charged Harper with trespassing on authority property on July 3, 2019. By pleading no contest, Harper did not admit committing the crime but offered no defense to it, acknowledged prosecutors had sufficient evidence to prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and agreed to be sentenced as if he had pleaded or been found guilty.

Also on Tuesday, Maura M. Skwait, 29, of Pottsville, pleaded no contest to recklessly endangering another person, with prosecutors withdrawing a charge of endangering the welfare of children. Russell placed Skwait on probation for two years and also sentenced her to pay costs and a $50 CJEA payment and perform 20 hours community service.

Pottsville police charged Skwait with endangering a child n June 9, 2019, in the city.

“She was visibly intoxicated” and drove a 19-month-old child in a vehicle, District Attorney Michael A. O’Pake said.

In another Tuesday case, Jared R. Abdul-Ali, 19, of Shenandoah, pleaded guilty to simple assault. Russell sentenced him to time served to 12 months in prison, pay costs and a $50 CJEA payment, have no contact with the victim and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Pottsville police alleged Abdul-Ali punched a man in the face on Sept. 20, 2019, in the city.

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

POTTSVILLE — Police officers throughout Schuylkill and surrounding counties often find themselves struggling with limited resources and finances to serve their communities.

These municipal officers may now find themselves facing additional duties as they deal with the enforcement of mandatory closures Gov. Tom Wolf announced Thursday in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Wolf ordered the physical locations of non-life-sustaining businesses to close. The businesses must remain closed for a two-week period. Enforcement will begin at 8 a.m. Monday by the Pennsylvania National Guard, Pennsylvania State Police and municipal police departments.

Pottsville Police Chief Richard F. Wojciechowsky said any violations of state mandates will be initially handled by state police or other state agencies.

“We will certainly defer principal enforcement of the state-imposed mandates to the state authorities so we can continue to concentrate on the immediate needs of our primary citizens,” the chief said.

He added that Pottsville officers are working as normal around the clock with their normal duties serving the citizens of the city.

Additional officers on shifts could only be possible down the road to concentrate on state mandates if state funding is provided to compensate the overtime and adequate effective safety measures to provide optimum reduced risk liability for police and the public, Wojciechowsky said.

The chief also said that he has seen incredible self compliance from city businesses and that his department and other city officials have been in contact with state representatives concerning the very few that have not.

Frackville Police Chief Richard Bell said his department is doing its best to adhere to the mandates, which he noted are changing. The governor’s office issued a revised “non-life-sustaining” business Friday.

Bell said with limited officers and a limited budget, it is difficult for a municipal police department to enforce state mandates over and above normal duties.

However, he said if business owners obey the mandates, no problems should come up that need enforcement.

“We’re doing our best to adhere to all the orders and we are hoping that everyone will adhere to them too,” Bell said. “If this happens there will be no problems.”

On Friday afternoon, state police officials were meeting with representatives of the Pennsylvania Police Chief’s Association to discuss enforcement.

State police Communications Director Ryan Tarkowski said the goal of the meeting was to formulate a plan for state and municipal officers to work toward a common enforcement goal.

Tarkowsky said he expected information on the meeting to be made available later Friday, but it had not been released by press time.

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

POTTSVILLE — The Schuylkill County commissioners on Wednesday approved two appropriations that will allow the prison to buy new equipment.

One measure allots $36,080 for the purchase of a fingerprinting machine, while the other appropriates $1,246 for buying two printers.

The money is available in the prison commissary fund.

Also, the commissioners approved the settlement of three tax assessment appeals filed by Priya Holdings Inc. for a property in Minersville. The property consists of three separate tax parcels, which is why three appeals were filed.

“It’s a warehouse building,” for which there were competing appraisals, assistant county solicitor Glenn Roth said.

Under the terms of the settlement, the property will have a total value, on which future real estate tax bills will be based, of $997,000.

In other business, the commissioners:

• Approved a two-year contract with Prescient Medicine Holdings Inc. to provide drug testing services to the Adult Probation and Parole Office.

• Approved a professional services agreement for $80,200 with Alfred Benesch & Co., Pottsville, for the paving design of Airport Road and the associated park and ride area. The funding comes from the county liquid fuels money and a multimodal transportation fund grant from PennDOT.

• Approved a 2019 budget adjustment of $2,500 for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

• Approved a supplemental budget appropriation of $5,287.57 for the Parks and Recreation office.

• Voted to join the Pennsylvania South Central Task Force. Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry and York counties already are members.

“They had very well-established programs,” said Emergency Management Coordinator John Matz, who added that the county is leaving the East Central Task Force.

• Reappointed Megan Degrassi, of Pottsville, to a three-year term on the Drug & Alcohol Advisory Board.

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

POTTSVILLE — The Schuylkill County Emergency Management Agency continues to monitor the development of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Coordinator John Matz said Friday that his office continues to work with the state Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to make sure vital information about COVID-19 is reviewed and acted on if needed.

Along with monitoring the situation, Matz said conference calls are made regularly with school officials and businesses as well as surrounding counties.

“There is a constant flow of communication,” he said.

Matz said EMA has also been fielding a few telephone calls reporting businesses that have remained open after Monday when Gov. Tom Wolf ordered all nonessential businesses to shutter their doors.

For the most part, Matz said it does not appear any businesses in the county that were ordered to close remain open and many are still in the process of shutting down.

One business in Schuylkill County, OMNOVA Solutions in Auburn, reported it was in the process of shutting down its operation until the coronavirus situation is resolved.

Matz said many businesses need time to cease their operations and conform to the mandates.

In the case of OMNOVA Solutions, Matz said company officials said it would take between 24 and 36 hours to bring the processing at a plant to a halt.

“In a lot of these you just can’t flip a switch. It takes time,” Matz said.

One problem with the mandates Matz became aware of is the ordered closing of day care centers.

Matz said many parents who rely on day care centers are workers in health care and other occupations that do not afford them the ability to just stay home.

“People need child care,” Matz said.

As of now, Matz said day care services offered in a provider’s home is acceptable, while operation in a designated day care center is not. Day care centers, however, can apply for a waiver with the state to continue operations.

Matz said the mandates instituted by Wolf are constantly being revisited and could also change if needed.

Municipalities are being proactive when it comes to the safety of residents, both young and old.

In Frackville, Police Chief Richard Bell said the borough decided Friday to officially close all parks in the borough.

“They (borough officials) felt it was in the best interest of everyone’s safety,” he said.

Then there are some people who are trying to take advantage of residents during the crisis.

The New Philadelphia Police Department reported law enforcement officers and the American Red Cross are advising residents that in some areas people are going door-to-door saying they are authorized to do home testing for the coronavirus.

When allowed, police said the person or persons pretend to conduct a test and charge for it or, in some cases, simply steal items from the residence.

Police urge residents who may encounter someone coming to their home to offer services to not to let them inside and call 911 immediately.

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

The following events, activities, organizations and businesses have been affected by the coronavirus:

Mr. Anthracite bodybuilding show, scheduled for April 4, at Ramada Inn, Pottsville, has been rescheduled to July 12.

Ashland Area Historic Preservation Society meeting, scheduled for March 25, at 318 Center St., Ashland, is canceled.

Tremont Fire Company Lenten Fish Fry event, scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. Fridays during Lent, are canceled for the rest of the season.

St. Matthew’s last Lenten Food Sale, scheduled for noon to 3 p.m. Friday, March 27, is canceled.

Port Carbon Public Library’s Chinese auction, scheduled for Sunday, March 29, has been postponed.

Ss Peter & Paul Orthodox Church Paska Bake Sale, scheduled for April 1-3, has been postponed.

Mock lobster and ham dinner, scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 3, Friedensburg Fire Company, is canceled.

South End Field & Stream Kielbasa Sale, scheduled for April 10-11, at Whippoorwill Dam, Frackville, is canceled.

Sportman’s bingo, scheduled for March 22 at West End Fire and Rescue, 700 W. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City, rescheduled to June 7. Tickets purchased will be honored.

■ Dramatic Stations of the Cross, scheduled for Palm Sunday, April 5, and Good Friday, April 10, at St. John the Baptist Church, Pottsville, canceled.

■ An Evening with Psychic Medium Kimberly, scheduled for March 28 at West End Fire and Rescue, 700 W. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City, canceled. Ticket money will be refunded.

■ Vietnam veterans breakfast, scheduled for March 30 at Lewie’s Restaurant, Frackville, canceled.

■ St. Michael’s Church Fish Dinner, scheduled for Friday, March 27, Saint Clair, and halupki sale, cancelled.

■ Girl Scout cookie sales, scheduled for Friday, March 20, at Turkey Hill, Minersville, and Saturday, March 21 and Sunday, March 22, at Walmart, Saint Clair, canceled.

■ North Ward Easter Egg Hunt, scheduled Saturday, March 28, at Willow Street Playground, Schuylkill Haven, canceled.

■ Schuylkill Keep It Pretty roast, scheduled March 25, canceled. Goal is to reschedule.

■ Greater Shenandoah Area Senior Citizens, 220 N. Market St., monthly meeting, bingo, anniversary party. Plan to open May 6. Call Mary Ann at 570-462-0883.

■ Ham and dandelion meal, scheduled March 27, Lions building, Hegins, canceled.

■ St. John’s Church basket bonanza, scheduled for Saturday, April 4, Port Clinton, tentatively rescheduled for April 25. Call 610-207-3075.

■ Spaghetti dinner, scheduled for April 4, at Covenant United Methodist Church, Schuylkill Haven, canceled.

■ Great Shenandoah Area Historical Society’s basket auction, scheduled for April 18 and 19, postponed.

■ Altamont Fire Company all-you-can-eat-breakfast, scheduled March 22, canceled.

■ Greater Hazleton Concert Series “Doo Wop Project” concert scheduled March 24, canceled.

■ St. Nicholas Holy Name all-you-can-eat-breakfast, scheduled March 22, Primrose, canceled.

■ Schuylkill Haven Senior Citizens Association meeting, scheduled for March 23, canceled.

■ Soup and pretzel sale, scheduled for March 28 at Tremont Area Free Public Library, postponed.

■ Rumpsch match, scheduled for March 29 at Auburn Game and Fish, canceled

■ Ringtown Rotary seafood supper, scheduled for April 3, canceled.

■ Lenten dinner, scheduled Friday, March 20, at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville, canceled.

■ Cornhole tournament, scheduled for April 25 at Williamstown American Legion, canceled.

■ Saint Clair Area School District PTO Chinese auction, scheduled for March 26 and 27, canceled.

■ Schuylkill Valley Food Pantry distribution postponed. For more information, call Schuylkill Community Action, 570-622-1995.

■ Scholar-athlete banquet, scheduled for March 29, postponed. Schools will be notified of new date.

■ The Mahoney Brothers concert, scheduled March 29 at Mount Carmel Area High School, postponed.

■ Steve Burton appearance, scheduled for March 21 at Walk In Art Center, Schuylkill Haven, rescheduled Saturday, Sept. 26.

■ St. Teresa of Calcutta, Mahanoy City, all non-sacramental activities postponed or canceled until further notice.

■ Ukrainian Catholic churches, no obligation to attend Sunday Divine Liturgy. All regularly scheduled liturgies will remain open for those who wish to attend.

■ Little League International, temporary suspension of all league activities until April 6. Start of regular season delayed.

■ Chicken potpie dinner, scheduled for March 21 at Friedens Lutheran Church, New Ringgold, postponed.

■ Choral Evensongs Vespers, scheduled for March 22 at First United Methodist Church, Pottsville, rescheduled for 6 p.m. Sunday, April 26.

■ Pottsville American Cancer Society Relay for Life kickoff, scheduled for March 28, canceled.

■ Haddock or pork chop dinner, scheduled for March 20 at Pine Grove Masonic Lodge, canceled.

■ Pottsville mayor’s state of the city speech, postponed on March 12, will be rescheduled.

■ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Port Carbon, services for March 22, canceled.

■ Girardville’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, scheduled for March 28, postponed.

■ Minersville Area High School Drama Club’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” rescheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, April 23, through Saturday, April 25, auditorium.

■ St. Patrick Soup Kitchen serving meals by takeout. However, if someone needs to stay and eat, they will not be turned away.

Government

■ Frackville Borough Office is closed. Mail your payments or put through mail slot during normal business hours, after hours put in the black box in front of the borough hall. Phone calls will be answered during normal business hours. All borough parks will be closed until further notice.

■ Rep. Jerry Knowles, R-124, Rush Township, no walk-in service at Tamaqua district office. Staff available by phone and online. Paperwork can be dropped in mail slot in lobby. Call 570-668-1240 Monday through Friday. Knowles’ district office in Hamburg Borough Hall shared with state Sen. David G. Argall, closed to walk-in service.

■ State Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, Rush Township, district offices in Pottsville, Hamburg and Harrisburg, closed until further notice. Mahanoy City office remains open. Call 1-877-327-4255 or go to www.senatorargall.com.

■ Ashland Borough Hall, closed until further notice. Staff available by phone. Utility payments can be paid by mail or in mailbox in front of borough hall.

■ Frackville Area Municipal Authority office, closed until further notice. Staff available by phone, 570-874-3589 (office); 570-874-4421 (plant).

Payments can be mailed, deposited in drop box outside borough building or at the FAMA Office door mail slot, or with a credit or debit card at fama874.com (look for the Municipal Pay link). Call office to pay over phone.

■ Frackville Borough Tax Office closed until further notice. Janice Huth, tax collector, can be reached at 570-874-4670. Payments should be mailed or placed in mail slot at tax office. If return receipt is requested, a self-addressed postage paid envelope must be included.

■ Mahanoy City Borough office, closed until April 1. All essential workers in place to take calls. Community Day meeting this week and Home Rule meeting March 24, canceled.

■ Minersville Borough Office, 2 E. Sunbury St. closed until further notice. Call 570-544-2149 during normal business hours, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Applications for compost cards, occupant permits, rental registration available at minersvilleonline.com. Options for paying utility bills available at https://wipp.edmundsassoc.com/Wipp/?wippid=MNRV, mailing check and money orders to office, 2 E. Sunbury St., Minersville, PA 17954, or at the drop box on Sunbury Street side of building.

■ Orwigsburg Borough Office, 209 N. Warren St., closed to non-essential persons until further notice. Staff available by phone Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., by calling 570-366-3103. Borough parks, fields, recreation centers closed to external functions; rentals will continue on case-by-case basis; limit 10 people.

■ Pottsville City Hall, closed to public. Employees available via phone or email 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Call 570-622-1234 or go to www.city.pottsville.pa.us. Payments may be mailed or placed in drop box outside city hall.

■ Schuylkill County Housing Authority main office and development offices, closed to public. Applicants for public housing and Section 8 will be processed by calling 570-385-3400, ext. 111. For other business, call the same numbers.

■ Schuylkill County Prison, no visitors except legal defense and official business.

■ Schuylkill Haven Borough Hall, 333 Center Ave., closed to public until further notice. Make utility payments via drive-through in back of borough hall, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., in the night deposit box or by phone, online or mail. Phone payments can be made during business hours or after via toll free number, 1-833-201-5693. Merchant fee for all phone payments is $3. All other borough business requires appointment; call 570-385-2841 during normal business hours.

■ State driver’s license/photo centers, closed through at least March 29.

Businesses/organizations

Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce office is closed as of Monday, March 23, all events and committee meetings from March 16 through April 1, canceled.

■ Diakon classes, clubs, programs, canceled; senior centers closed. Diakon Community Services discourages walk-ins to main office. Call 570-624-3010. AARP tax preparation, canceled. APPRISE telephone counseling only, no face-to-face appointments. Call 570-624-3026.

■ Lykens Valley Children’s Museum, Elizabethville, all programs canceled.

■ Schuylkill County Historical Society, closed to the public until further notice. Artist Lori Quinn program on Pottsville buildings, scheduled for March 25, postponed. April 7 meeting, canceled.

■ Sweet Arrow Lake County Park, all public and private events, canceled or postponed until April 2. Bruce Schneck Memorial Fishing Event rescheduled to April 18. “What’s invading my backyard? Spotting the spotted lanternfly,” rescheduled to April 8. Call 570-527-2505.

■ Redner’s Markets hours, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Convenience stores open 24 hours.

■ Friendly’s, Route 61, Pottsville, closed through March 27.

■ Mountain Valley Pete Acquarola Senior Golf League Early Spring Fun Tour, cancelled. Call Bill Kaczmarczyk, 570-778-6206, John Bashago, 570-233-1713, or the pro shop, 570-467-2242, Ext. 1.

■ Fighter’s Heaven, Deer Lake, closed to off-season tours. Scheduled May 1 opening tentative.

■ Mid Penn Bank, drive-thru only during normal banking hours. ATMs, online service remain available 24 hours. Call 1-866-642-7736 or email questions by visiting midpennbank.com/contact-us.

■■ Explore Schuylkill (visitors bureau), closed. Spring Restaurant promotion, scheduled March 22-28, postponed.

■ Fairlane Village mall, events canceled through March 31 (including arrival of the Easter Bunny March 28).

■ Dine-out, scheduled for March 28 at Vernalis, Shenandoah, to benefit the Greater Shenandoah Area Historical Society, canceled. Will be rescheduled.

■ D.G. Yuengling and Son Brewery, Pottsville, gift shop, tasting room, tours closed until further notice.

■ Crystal’s School of Dance, Orwigsburg, closed through March 27.

■ Greater Shenandoah Area Chamber of Commerce, next meeting April 15.

■ Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, visitor services and programs canceled, trails closed through March 30.

■ Pottsville Free Public Library closed through March 29 as encouraged by Office of Commonwealth Libraries for all public libraries in state.

■Empire Beauty Schools closed student salons to the public March 13. Students will continue training.

■ Penn State Schuylkill and all PSU campuses in-person classes suspended.

■ Luzerne County Community College in-person classes suspended. See luzerne.edu for information.

■ Schuylkill YMCA closed through March 22. See website and social media for updates.

Report any cancellations and closures to editorial@republicanherald.com.

Mahanoy City

The West End Fire and Rescue Company, 700 W. Mahanoy Ave., has rescheduled its Sportsman’s Bingo for 12:30 to 5 p.m. June 7. Tickets that have already been purchased will be honored, according to a release from Ann Gavala. Tickets are $40 each. For more information, call 570-778-6118.

McAdoo

Borough tax collection hours have been canceled until further notice. Taxes can be mailed to the tax collector’s home address, which is printed on all tax bills, or placed in the borough mail slot on the front door of the borough quarters, 23 N. Hancock St. People who want receipts should include self-addressed, stamped envelopes with payments. For more information, call Andrew DeBalko, borough tax collector, at 570-929-1628.

The following public school meal distributions include breakfast and lunch and are Monday-Friday unless otherwise specified.

Blue Mountain

Finalizing plan to offer to students who qualify for free and reduced lunch.

Mahanoy Area

Anyone 18 years and younger.

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Transportation parking lot and East End Park.

Minersville Area

Open to all children present under 18. Walk up or drive up.

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. starting Monday, March 23: elementary school, 300 N. Fifth St. Lunch for current day and breakfast for following day. Friday distributions will include breakfast and lunch for weekend.

North Schuylkill

Free to anyone under age 18; no ID required.

11 a.m. to noon in communities that meet income guidelines: Washington Fire Company, 1307 Centre St., Ashland; Good Will Hose Company, 225 S. Balliet St., Frackville; Rangers Hose Company, 6 E. Ogden St., Girardville.

Panther Valley

11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at elementary school, Panther Valley stadium, Coaldale borough hall, Batter’s Box restaurant.

Pine Grove Area

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: North End Volunteer Fire Company parking lot, 118 N. Tulpehocken St., Pine Grove, and Tremont Borough Building, 139 Clay St., Tremont.

Pottsville Area

Students 18 and younger.

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Behind D.H.H. Lengel Middle School at the team entrance to Martz Hall.

Saint Clair

Open to all district students.

11 a.m. to noon: Elementary/middle school.

11:30 a.m. to noon: Cherry Street parking lot in Arnot’s Addition.

11 to 11:30 a.m.: Outside Cumbola Goodwill Hose Company, Water Street, Cumbola.

11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.: Outside Good Intent Fire Company, Macomb Street, New Philadelphia.

12:30 to 1 p.m.: Schuylkill Valley Falcons Teener League Field, Middleport.

Schuylkill Haven

Open to students who qualify for free and reduced school meals.

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays: high school entrance. Week’s worth of meals provided.

Shenandoah Valley

Open to all district students through March 27.

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Elementary parent drop-off area.

Tamaqua

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 23-27 (for now): Rear of the high school/middle school campus.

Tri-Valley

Open to all district students.

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday, March 23 and Thursday, March 26: Sacramento Community Fire Company, 2206 E. Main St., Sacramento. Meals, prepared by district food service provider Chartwells, include breakfasts and lunches for several days. Students must be present in vehicles for grab-and-go service. No further dates provided at this time.

Upper Dauphin Area

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. weekdays, high school cafeteria entrance, Elizabethville, and middle school main entrance/bus circle, Loyalton. Child must be present to pick up meals via drive-through process. Remain in vehicle. Lunch and breakfast for following day in each bag. Friday bags include meals for weekend. Either location can be used. For access issues, email batemanm@udasd.org or call 717-362-6555.

Williams Valley

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: high school; Wiconisco Fire Engine Company, Arch Street, Wiconisco Township; Williamstown Borough Hall, Station Street, Williamstown.

RAVEN RUN — The board of the Municipal Authority of the Borough of Shenandoah retained the services of a law firm in gathering information about any potential sale of the water authority and pursue legal action if warranted.

The board, in a 4-0 vote, retained the law firm of Elliott Greenleaf & Dean as special counsel.

The authority board held a special meeting Friday to discuss the future of the water filtration plant and authority, any potential sale and gather information on what is being done by the Borough of Shenandoah, which has been working with the Pennsylvania Economy League.

Board members attending in person were Chairman Joseph Anczarski, Vice Chairman John Szczyglak, Secretary/Treasurer Gary Wood and member Leo Pietkiewicz. Attending by telephone was member Brian Dillman. Authority solicitor Joseph Nahas also attended by telephone. Others authority officials attending were Jennifer Hepler, office supervisor; Daniel Salvadore, chief plant operator; and William Moyer, working foreman.

Due to government restrictions limiting the size of groups to 10, and with the meeting room filled to that amount, members of the public were required to wait in the hallway through the meeting to listen in. When it was time for public comment, one person was allowed into the room while another person left to preserve the count.

The prepared motion read, “Motion to retain Elliott Greenleaf & Dean as special counsel to the Municipal Authority of the Borough of Shenandoah to research, investigate and commence legal action if warranted against the Borough of Shenandoah, as authorized by the Municipality Authorities Act, to stop the proposed sale of the Shenandoah water supply, treatment and distribution system and any other authority asset(s) because the authority has determined that said proposed sale is not in the best interests of the authority and/or its customers. The law firm is authorized to investigate and advise the authority if the negotiation of the proposed sale involved procedural and/or substantive irregularities, including, but no limited to, self-dealing. Insofar as said investigation reveals any procedural and/or substantive irregularities, such as self-dealing, the law firm is authorized to commence legal action against said individual(s) and entities to the extent such an action is permissible by law.”

Before the vote, there was another motion requesting that Pietkiewicz voluntarily recuse himself from voting, as well as to any and all discussions, in regard to the retaining of the law firm and any vote involving a potential sale of the authority because of him being a Shenandoah borough councilman involving any possible conflict of interest.

Though at his request, the public portion of the meeting was moved from the end of the meeting toward the beginning. It allowed Pietkiewicz to ask questions before he recused himself.

Nahas answered Pietkiewicz’s questions, with one answer explaining the reason MABS board had planned to move forward in hiring the law firm.

“This board does not have 100%, does not have all of the knowledge (it needs), which is why it is retaining outside counsel,” Nahas said. “That’s part of the issue that the board is concerned with whereby we were not part of a vote to sell the authority. The board was not involved in any meetings. There is a system that has to be followed with regards to possible dissolution and the borough taking over. We weren’t involved in that either. The board members feel they were not part of the process and are not comfortable how the process has proceeded to date. They want to retain a law firm whereby to investigate whether or not this process was correct and how it was handled. We wanted to retain an objective law firm to see that if the authority that the borough has been executing is appropriate and in conformity and is in the best interest of both its customers and its employees.”

In May 2019, the Shenandoah Borough Council approved at its monthly meeting to advertise for requests for proposals on the authority’s assets. At the time, Pietkiewicz, who was council president, said, “The borough council hereby authorizes the Pennsylvania Economy League for requests for proposals relating to the borough and MABS system assets. This work effort will be paid for using proceeds of the Early Intervention Program grant money. The RFP will solicit bids for water system assets. Any bid received would be evaluated by the borough, MABS, Pennsylvania Economy League and its team. Receipt of proposals will not obligate the borough or MABS to accept any offer or proposal.”

It was learned at Friday’s meeting that two proposals have been received, and the authority gave tours of the system to three private water companies that were not identified.

“There are many, many questions that need to be answered and the authority is looking to retain counsel to look into this,” Nahas added.

Piekiewicz said that the borough has not entered into any negotiations with potential purchasers at this point.

Also speaking during the public portion was borough tax receiver Donna Kulpowicz; Donna Gawrylik, former MABS chairwoman and member; and Ateeco Inc. President Thomas Twardzik.

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

The Tamaqua Salvation Army of Tamaqua and the Tamaqua Area Faith Fellowship Network are teaming up to bring the community together in prayer during the coronavirus pandemic.

The groups hope the Tamaqua community will pause and listen while every church, temple, synagogue or place of prayer rings bells at 3:18 p.m. each Friday.

The time represents March 18, 2020, the date in which the first COVID-19 victim died in Pennsylvania. The bells will chime in Tamaqua every Friday until government authorities deem it safe to continue activities as usual and the threat of the coronavirus is under control.

“The goal is to encourage all to pause for several minutes in order to fill their hearts with blessed assurance and reach out to our loving Creator,” according to a statement from the Tamaqua Salvation Army.

The Army hopes that community members will take time to pray for “strength, wisdom and grace in the face of an unseen, but known threat. We hope that individuals will pray for each other, our healthcare ‘soldiers’ on the frontline, our first responders, our leaders, and their individual concerns, forging an Army on its knees. Rather than feed into fear, we implore our community to unite in prayer.”

The following prayer is suggested for the Friday bell events:

“God, grant us the strength to live this day abundantly. Let us not turn coward toward its difficulties nor prove recreant to its duties. Let us not lose faith in other people. Keep our hearts sweet and sound despite meanness, ingratitude or even treachery.

Preserve us from minding the little stings and from giving them.

Help us to be strong, and to live so fearlessly and honestly, that no outward failure could diminish the joy of living with conscious integrity.

Open wide the eyes of our souls that we may see the goodness in all things.

Grant us today some new understanding of Your truth.

And fill our hearts with joy and gladness, that we may be a cup of strength to another suffering soul. Amen.”

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

Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill E. Norwegian Street

To Rayman Detweiler and Mary Strunk, Auburn, a daughter, March 11.

POTTSVILLE — A Cressona man will not have to spend time in prison after admitting Tuesday to a Schuylkill County judge that he shot a gun while possessing marijuana and a pipe in April 2019 in Pottsville.

Austin H. Zvorsky, 22, pleaded guilty to recklessly endangering another person, possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of violation of a firearms ordinance.

Judge Jacqueline L. Russell accepted the plea and, pursuant to an agreement between prosecutors and the defendant, placed him on probation for 12 months and also sentenced him to pay costs, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account, and undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation.

Pottsville police charged Zvorsky with discharging the gun, and possessing the marijuana and pipe, on April 23, 2019.

Also on Tuesday, Austin M. Fairchild, 21, of Saint Clair, pleaded guilty to three counts of criminal mischief and one of propulsion of missiles. Prosecutors withdrew an additional count of criminal mischief and one count of disorderly conduct.

Russell accepted the plea, placed Fairchild on probation for 24 months and also sentenced him to pay costs, a $50 CJEA payment and $1,490.42 restitution, perform 20 hours community service and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Pottsville police had charged Fairchild with shooting a pellet gun at passing trucks on Route 61 on June 25, 2019, in the city.

In a Monday case, Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin sentenced Joshua D. Joseph, 34, of Zion Grove, to serve one to five years in a state correctional institution.

Dolbin imposed the sentence as the result of the state Department of Corrections removing Joseph from the state intermediate punishment program. Assistant District Attorney McCall Young noted that Joseph had been removed from the program for failing to report to his supervising officer, using drugs, not making payments on his court-ordered costs and fees, possessing alcohol, not completing his drug and alcohol evaluation and not performing community service.

Joseph, who wore a prison jumpsuit, handcuffs and a belt during the hearing, did not deny his violations but asked to be sent to a halfway house instead of state prison.

“I’m hoping I get a second chance here,” he said.

Dolbin, however, did not agree.

“I observe ... that everything’s an excuse,” he said. “You violate continually.”

Joseph originally pleaded guilty on July 15, 2019, to driving under the influence, driving under suspension-DUI related and no rear lights. At that time, Dolbin sentenced him to spend five years in the state intermediate punishment program and pay costs, $2,500 in fines, a $1,000 SAEF payment, a $50 bench warrant fee and $60 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, and perform 50 hours community service.

Mahanoy City police had charged Joseph with DUI with a suspended license on Dec. 10, 2017, in the borough.

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