A 93-acre property on Sharp Mountain in Pottsville is for sale.

An advertisement published in The Republican-Herald on Feb. 27 had a listing price of $325,000 for the property, which also includes a cell tower lease. The listing by Red e Realty agent Karen Heller Wagner described the property as within the city limits and on the east end of Sharp Mountain. Wagner declined to comment about the reason for the sale.

The property is visible from Cressona Road in Pottsville. It is listed as being owned by four people — Thomas A. Higgins, John W. Joyce, Patricia M. Suender Dolbin and Donald D. Dolbin, according to the Schuylkill Parcel Locator.

The vacant property is partially zoned R-1 for residential and S-1 for special, city Administrator Thomas A. Palamar said. Residential zone uses include single-family dwellings, multi-family dwellings and elder care facilities, while a special zone area includes two-family dwellings, appropriate public uses and strip mining.

Higgins, Pottsville, said there is “nothing magical” about the sale. He said the land is for sale because the owners are aging and it is time to list the property.

Higgins and Suender Dolbin are the only owners still living. Higgins said the property was initially listed in December 2014 and includes three separate parcels, which are all owned by the foursome. The largest parcel is 87.4 acres, and the other parcels are 1.6 and 4 acres. In all probability, he said the property will be listed until it is sold.

“There have been several inquires,” Higgins said, declining to name the interested parties.

He said he does not know how many acres of the land is zoned R-1 and was under the impression it was a special zoning district.

Palamar said he did not know the breakdown of land zoned residential and special.

“We’d love to see it developed if there was a good use for it,” Palamar said, adding nobody has approached the city with plans to develop it in the 13 years he has been city administrator.

The amount of land could be promising depending on its use, Palamar said. Although, he said the amount of land that could be developed might be limited due to terrain.

“It’s unimproved for the most part. I believe there is potential there,” he said.

CRESSONA — The Easter Bunny arrived in style on Saturday to the Cressona Mall via a Cressona Fire Company No. 1 fire truck for the first time.

“He usually comes in a convertible, but, with the rain, he would get all wet,” Cynthia Huntsinger, Cressona Mall manager and promotions coordinator, said Saturday.

The mall typically brings Santa in the fire truck, so the idea for the Easter Bunny taking the same transportation this year came about, she said.

The event has previously featured entertainers, but this year included $5 photos with the Easter Bunny, an Easter egg hunt and Easter bingo, where every child won a prize.

Some of the plastic Easter eggs included chocolate or a ticket to enter the Easter basket raffles.

A free Easter event has been held for the 13 years that Huntsinger has managed the mall.

“It’s for the community. Free events are great because of the economy being bad and it gives the kids something to do,” she said.

Money made at the event goes into similar future mall events.

Jessica Savitsky, Frackville, stood in line to greet the Easter Bunny with her two sons, Liam, 7, and Connor, 4, and her friend from work, Stacy Krupiewski, Shenandoah.

“We actually didn’t know they did this here until this year,” Savistsky said.

Savitsky typically brings her children to the Schuylkill Mall for photos with the Easter Bunny but wanted to try something different on that rainy morning.

“The kids like it. I like to show the pictures to the family,” Savitsky said.

Connor Savitsky was thrilled to see the Easter Bunny hold the door open for him upon his arrival to the mall.

“They really look forward to seeing (the Easter Bunny),” Krupiewski said.

The group attended the Children’s Spring Art Festival at Alvernia University, Cressona, before stopping to see the Easter Bunny.

Among the various art stands was volunteer Haley Rich, 21, an Alvernia University education student.

“Our table shows the life cycle of a chicken,” she said. “We have a project for them, too, where they can make a chick and put them in an egg and dab whatever colors they want on it.”

Other tables featured creating butterflies out of popcorn bags, face painting, crafting a nest out of paper bags and jelly beans and planting a seed to grow in the spring.

The free art festival served a similar role for children as the Easter Bunny’s arrival and egg hunt did.

“There doesn’t seem to be a lot of child-friendly free events around here,” Crystal Owen, 33, event organizer, said Saturday.

Next year, Owen hopes to have a multicultural theme at their art festival.

“The children can come in and can learn about all different cultures,” she said.

Owen said the art festival was a continuation of the university’s Make-A-Difference day in October where similar activities related to fall were held.

The festival is run by education majors at the university.

“I came to support my students. It’s good hands-on experience for Alvernia students and they want to give back to the community,” Sharon Kolenick, adjunct faculty member, said.

In addition to showing support for the students, she also brought her niece, Elli, 3, and nephew, Harry Marks, 4, to participate in the free activities.

She believes interaction between the students and children is important for education majors as much as it is to the children.

“It’s important to interact with the children and important for them to come and do developmental activities,” Kolenick said.

Family, friends and a fascination with the history of the anthracite coal region inspired Robert Thomas Hughes, Clarks Summit, to write his first play in 2013.

“I’ve been performing on stage for more than 50 years, and, in the evolution of my artistic life, this seemed like my next step forward. It’s something I needed to do. I needed to cross that bridge,” Hughes said Thursday.

Eager to share “A Miner’s Tale,” Hughes — who turns 75 on Wednesday — will perform the one-man show at 2 p.m. March 29 at the Majestic Theater, 209 N. Centre St., Pottsville. Tickets are $5 each and are available by calling the Pottsville Area Development Corp. office at 570-628-4647.

Hughes introduced his play to audiences at Anthracite Heritage Museum in Scranton in 2013. Since then, he’s been making calls to area historical societies to see if there were opportunities for him to perform the play elsewhere. And that’s what led him to get in touch with the Schuylkill County Historical Society and PADCO.

“People just want to know about history. Psychiatrists say we have a sense of belonging. And I just feel that people want to connect to the people of the past,” Hughes said Thursday.

The play takes place in 1890 in Lackawanna County, and Hughes said it’s about coal mining, human frailty, compassion and death. It features seven characters, all played by Hughes. Hughes said one of them was inspired by his late uncle, George Sluke, Scranton.

“My uncle, George, worked in the mines in the Glen Alden, and he was one of the people in my life who kind of inspired me to be dignified and take care of myself. He was an artist, also. He painted,” Hughes said.

“He was from Scranton. He worked as a watchman for Glen Alden Coal Company. Like a night watchman. And the narrator in my play is a night watchman who is a combination of my uncle and myself as a would-be writer,” Hughes said.

Hughes was born March 18, 1940, in Scranton.

“My mother was Eastern European and my dad was a Welshman, so I have two rich heritages behind me,” Hughes said.

When he was in seventh grade, he befriended an eighth-grader, Jason Miller, who grew up to be an actor and playwright.

Miller earned the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1973 for the play “That Championship Season” and Miller is known internationally for playing the role of Father Karras in William Friedkin’s film “The Exorcist (1973).” Miller died in Scranton on May 13, 2001, at age 62, according to the Internet Movie Database.

“The basis of our friendship originally was the fact that I could curse better than he could. He loved that. And we played football together,” Hughes said.

Hughes graduated from St. Patrick High School, Scranton, in 1958. He said Miller was a 1957 graduate.

“I was in his original play, ‘The Winner,’ which was produced around 1960 in Philadelphia,” Hughes said.

Hughes said Miller inspired him to continue acting, and his credits included a part in a production of “That Championship Season” performed at Montage Mountain, Scranton, in the 1970s. He played the role of George Sikowski.

Recently, Hughes had the opportunity to do his impressions of Miller on stage, in a production of “Go Irish: The Purgatory Diaries of Jason Miller,” written by Tom Flannery and Rodger Jacobs.

“He was the Arnold Palmer of theater in this region. He popularized and personified the artist as actor and writer,” Hughes said of Miller.

Hughes said he plans to perform in that play again this year.

Hughes served in the Army from 1962 to 1964, earning the rank of Specialist E-4. He went onto earn his bachelor’s degree in English from Scranton University in 1972 and a master’s in special education from East Stroudsburg University in 1995.

Last year, he retired after 19 years of working as a teacher at institutions including Scranton University and the Scranton School District.

“Now, I want to devote my whole time now to theater and to writing and acting,” Hughes said.

n Girardville: The Girardville Ambulance Service subscription drive is underway. Anyone in the service area who did not receive and envelope is asked to call 570-276-6603.

n Harrisburg: Applications are available for Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants through the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, according to press releases from state Reps. Jerry Knowles, R-124, and Mike Tobash, R-125. The grants are made available in coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and are designed to facilitate a partnership with state officials in “an effort to organize, train and equip local forces in preventing, controlling and suppressing fires that have the potential to threaten human life, livestock, crops, pastures, woodlands, orchards and farmsteads,” according to the releases. The grants are available to rural areas or communities with fewer than 10,000 residents and can be used for the purchase of wildfire suppression equipment, wildfire protective gear, wildfire prevention and mitigation, wildfire training mobile or portable radios and installation of dry hydrants. Funds may also be used for certain projects involving the conversion and maintenance of federal excess vehicles received from the Bureau of Forestry and used for fire suppression. “Financial assistance on any project during any fiscal year cannot exceed 50 percent of the actual expenditures, including expenditures of local, public and private nonprofit organizations participating in the agreement. The maximum grant that will be considered is $7,500 ($15,000 total project) per fire company,” the legislators said in the release. Due to high demand and limited funding, fire companies must wait five years after receiving a DCNR grant through the program to be eligible to receive another grant. However, if a fire company received a $4,000 grant or less in the last five years, it is eligible for assistance one additional time as long as the two-year total does not exceed the maximum grant established for the program each year. For grant guidelines or to apply, go online to www.RepTobash.com or www.RepKnowles.com.

n Millersburg: The Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art’s multi-artist exhibition titled “Pennsylvania Artists: A Tribute,” features eight Pennsylvania-based artists on a rotating basis in its Olewine Gallery. Now through March 28, the art of Millersburg resident Dharla Maiden is on exhibit. Maiden is a founding member of the center and her art has been exhibited at Gallery on the Square and Peppers Gallery in Selinsgrove, according to a center press release. Through May 30, the art of Pottstown native David Hughes is on exhibit. Transferring his creative thoughts “from heart to art” began in his teenage years with simple drawings of birds and mammals. It was when he accompanied his uncle to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary for the first time that he realized his passion for birds of prey, according to the release. For more information, call 717-692-3699 or go online to www.nedsmithcenter.org.

n Schuylkill Haven: In a follow up to the successful 2014 Penn State Schuylkill Women’s Wellness Conference, the campus this year will feature mini seminars highlighting pertinent women’s issues, according to the campus’ spring 2015 Community Cultural Events Calendar and a flier on the 2015 Women’s Wellness Series. The forums will include a presentation by a prominent speaker followed question-and-answer sessions. The schedule is as follows, with all beginning at 7 p.m. in Classroom 101 in the classroom building: April 1, “The sandwich generation — how to balance your priorities;” May 6, “What every woman should know about their finances;” Aug. 5, “During the golden years ... what really are the needs;” Oct. 7, “Looking your best — makeup application and hair care;” Nov. 4, “Dental wellness ... love your smile;” Dec. 2, “Guilt! It’s killing me.” The events are free and the public is welcome, but reservations are required. RSVP to Rosalie Wiest at 570-385-6102 or via email to RAW44@psu.edu.

Hundreds gathered at the 36th Grand Irish Party for the camaraderie Saturday at Humane Fire Company in Pottsville, though the 40th edition of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day parade was washed out.

“It’s disappointing, but many of the bands and marchers that I called to tell them the parade was canceled thanked me. We didn’t want to put the kids out in the rain,” Leo Haley, president of the Ancient Order of Hibernians John F. Kennedy Div. 2, Pottsville, said Saturday.

Though disappointed, many people at the Grand Irish Party were understanding and still satisfied with the celebration.

“It’s very disappointing that it had to be canceled. We look forward to it and many people look forward to this day every year,” Dan Koury, co-chairman of AOH John F. Kennedy Div. 2, said. “Regardless, we started our day with Mass ... and now we’re here to celebrate.”

Koury wishes the parade could be postponed, but too many other St. Patrick’s Day parades occur around the same time to reschedule it.

“It’s a shame we can’t postpone it but with all of the other parades, it’s hard. With the weather, I still think people will come out and it’s busy as always,” Koury said.

Though disappointed by the parade’s cancellation, Gary and Angie Hummel, Pottsville, still came out to their yearly tradition.

“We like the band,” Angie Hummel said. “They were here last year and they were great.”

“And the socializing. You don’t get this every day. It’s one of the few occasions,” Gary Hummel said.

Gary Hummel wanted to march with his Navy and Vietnam veterans in this year’s parade, but most are “getting up there in age,” he said.

“We aren’t healthy enough to march and we don’t have enough guys anymore,” he said. “We regret not being able to.”

The Grand Irish Party reminded county Commissioner George F. Halcovage Jr. what Schuylkill County means to him.

“This is what Schuylkill County is about: people, friends and family. Schuylkill County is one big family. They come back here and get to reminisce. It’s a great homecoming,” he said.

Halcovage agreed with the decision to cancel the parade for the well-being of the public.

“It’s an unfortunate situation, especially for young people and children who enjoy it, but I think they made the right call,” he said.

The Grand Irish Party is also held to celebrate the patron saint of Ireland.

“We also do this to honor our patron saint, St. Patrick. We can’t lose sight of that,” Haley said.

He recalled that the previous two times the parade was canceled were also due to weather.

“I remember the one in 1993. It was one of the worst storms in the area,” Haley said. “The other was about 1982 because of the snow. The government actually canceled that one because it was so bad. We didn’t even have a choice.”

The city’s St. Patrick’s Day parade has been around for close to a half decade due to the dedication of city residents.

“We’re very fortunate that we’ve been around for 40 years because Pottsville is a very great parade town,” he said.

The Grand Irish Party began as a small get-together for parade participants.

“We always had a get together after the parade for the participants but we wanted to extend that to the public,” Haley said.

PARK PLACE - For 50 years, Kathleen A. "Kathy" Wufsus has been cutting, trimming, washing, coloring and doing just about anything you can do with hair in her shop in Park Place, and she has no plans to stop.

As a bonus, the "guests" who visit Kathleen Wufsus Beauty Salon in the Mahanoy Township village not only get her professional, expert service, but they also get a big smile, a warm hug, some laughter, and if it is your birthday or other special occasion, she will sing a song while playing her guitar.

"We all need three hugs a day. A hug means a lot," Wufsus said. "My mom was a hugger. That's the way I was raised. Some people won't leave the shop without a hug. The guitar is right near the shop door. It makes people laugh and raises their spirits."

Anyone who visits the shop also gets a friendly greeting from a golden retriever named Maggie, and if you bring treats, she will be your BFF - Best Friend Forever. On the Friday near Halloween, Wufsus hands over her scissors and curlers to her alter ego, "Wanda the Witch," which is a treat for her regular Friday clients who get their hair done in a holiday atmosphere.

"It's not just a salon. It's a place for family and friends," Wufsus said. "People meet in the salon and become friends. It's more of a gathering place than a business, and that's the way I want it."

Wufsus has plenty of regular guests that have been coming back for years, especially on Fridays. The shop has a party atmosphere as the clients are all friends, which includes June Mroczka, 87, of Barnesville, who has been a client for 48 years. Mroczka's daughter, Natalie Swokel, brings her every Friday for her 1 p.m. appointment. Also in the shop at the same time are regulars Loida Trautwein and Shirley Mendofik and they all take turns on the styling chair, the hairdryers or regular chairs as they chat and read.

"I always ask her to give me a Kathy do,'" Mroczka said. "She always asks, 'June, how do you want your hair done?' And I say, 'Whatever you want to do. Whatever you want me to look like.' When I'm finished, I look like a different lady, so I must like what she does after 48 year."

Today is a special day for Wufsus since it marks the 50th anniversary of receiving her Certificate of Registration as Operator in a Beauty Shop by the State Board of Cosmetology, part of the Pennsylvania Department of State. The certificate, which includes her photo back in 1965, is framed and displayed proudly.

The Park Place shop is also Wufsus' home and where she grew up and has lived all her life.

"This was my grandmother's house where she raised her family, and then my mother inherited it, and she raised us and I raised my family," Wufsus said. "Where the shop is now used to be the parlor."

Born in 1945, Wufsus, 69, is a daughter of the late Michael and Mary Kaier Whalen and was married in 1968 to Francis J. Wufsus, who passed away in 1985. She has two daughters, Sharon, wife of Kevin Leitzel, Quakake, and Lori, wife of Shawn Sullivan, Mahanoy City, and has two grandchildren, Jacob and Kelly Sullivan. She had two brothers, the late Joseph and Francis Whalen.

She attended St. Fidelis Parochial School in Mahanoy City and graduated from Mahanoy Area High School in 1963. She is a 1964 graduate of Empire Beauty School, Pottsville, after which she attended advanced styling school in Reading. Her education continues as she attends seminars and conferences to learn the latest styles, techniques and products.

"I still go to classes. It's something that you want to stay on top of," Wufsus said. "Education in any field is what counts. It gives me more confidence."

Wufsus' inspiration to become a cosmetologist began with a Christmas gift of a "Toni" doll, made by the Ideal Doll Co. between 1949 and 1956 and was an advertising tie-in to the Toni Home Permanent product and had hair that could be styled over and over. Wufsus still has the doll, which she received when she was about 11.

"I got it from Santa Claus," Wufsus said, smiling. "It was under the tree. I just loved it. I really played with her and gave her all kinds of hairstyles. I was always playing with her hair. It was a fun thing to do. I think it gave me the idea and was an inspiration that someday I would be a hairdresser."

When she was in high school, Wufsus wasn't sure about her career choice, although she considered becoming a gym teacher.

"I gave that some consideration, about going off to college to be a physical education teacher," Wufsus said. "At that time my brothers were in the service, so it was just my mother at home when I was graduating from high school. We were very close and I didn't want to leave her alone. My dad had died when I was 6."

During her senior year, Empire Beauty School came to the high school and offered scholarships of $100 after taking a test and scoring well on it.

"I took the written test and I was told a few weeks later that I was a recipient of a scholarship," she said. "That made up my mind. This way I could stay at home and help my mom and do something I liked to do. I guess it was meant to be."

In order to raise the money for school, Wufsus got a job rolling cigars at the General Cigar Co. plant in Mahanoy City. The job skills she learned helped her in her chosen career.

"It taught me not to play around with things. Just do it right the first time and move on," Wufsus said. "I took that technique to beauty school - cut some hair and move on, cut another piece and move on. I can do a few more haircuts in less time. I get the job done, double check it, and we're good to go. My mother was my model at beauty school. She was so patient and just sat there. As I got better at it, my neighbors would ask me to give them a trim. It was good practice for me, and I enjoyed making people happy and feeling better about themselves."

When Wufsus traveled to Wilkes-Barre in 1965 to take her tests for her cosmetology license, she took her mother as a model for the practical section of the exams. Her efficiency had her mother worried about getting done so quickly.

"I was so thrilled when I got my license in the mail because my mother had me convinced I flunked it because of my speed," Wufsus said. "We were the first ones to leave the testing room. Everybody else was still in the room working and she thought I missed something."

The next step was setting up a shop with all the requirements set by the state regulations. She was able to buy used equipment from a Frackville shop that was closing. Wufsus was originally unsure about opening in Park Place.

"When I first thought about it, I didn't know if I would do much business in Park Place, but I decided to do it anyway," she said. "Of course, the neighbors were thrilled to come and get their hair done. I opened up the shop and the rest is history. I would get customers and do their hair and they would be asked by their friends who did their hair. The phone kept ringing, and that's how it started. I know advertising is good, which I did, but I really feel word of mouth is best. It's networking."

Over the years, Wufsus has seen an increase in male clients as the number of barbershops have disappeared in the area.

"At the beginning of my salon, it was strictly women only. You wouldn't see a man because they'd go to barbers," she said. "In the last 20 some years, a lot of barbers retired or passed away, so a lot of guys started asking and I started styling men's hair. I love kids coming in. I'll have whole families come in and get haircuts."

Wufsus is a member of the Schuylkill County Cosmetology Association, Pennsylvania Barber and Cosmetology Association and the National Cosmetology Association.

She is a member of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Roman Catholic Church, Mahanoy City, the parish choir and sodality. She enjoys playing guitar and singing at local events, nursing homes and other venues. She is president of the Mahanoy Township Authority Board of Directors, is a member of the "Look Good, Feel Better" team and presents classes to women who are being treated for cancer; chairperson of the Mahanoy Township 150 Club, member of the Mahanoy Area Historical Society and ARDCO Board of Directors, and is also a member of the Mahanoy City Elks and its ladies auxiliary.

Her Christian faith is an important part of her life, which can be seen in her contact with others in and out of the shop.

"Look in the shop. You see signs like 'Love one another' and 'Believe' and the crucifix," she said. "We do pray together in the shop if someone has a worry or a concern. I say let's pray together. I have water from Lourdes if they want to bless themselves with it. It's more than just getting your hair cut. The 'guests' who come in are my family. They're very special to me. They're all God's people. Treat them with respect and appreciate them."

At this point, Wufsus plans to keep on going.

"I'll do this as long as I have my health and I'm able to do it," she said. "It's not a job, it's a joy. It's more like a hobby. I'm just thankful to God that I completed 50 years. Fifty years seems long, but it just flew by. When I think of all the different things we did here, it makes me happy. It's been a fun ride."

Top dentist

Dr. John P. Sadowski, DMD, of Sadowski Orthodontic Associates, Pottsville and Fogelsville, was chosen to be a 2014 Philadelphia Top Rated Dentist.

Sadowski was chosen because of his professional qualifications, including education, membership in the American Association of Orthodontists and board certification, his reputation, communication skills with patients and his ability to instill trust and confidence among his patients. His popular ranking by patients on review websites was also taken into account.

As a Philadelphia Top Rated Dentist, Sadowski will participate in a segment airing on FOX television at 1 p.m. Tuesday during “The Dr. Oz Show” called “Meet the 2014 Top Rated Doctors and Dentists in Philadelphia.” The concept of the television segment is to introduce the most highly recommended doctors in the community, which will make it easier for residents to select the right health care professional.

Sadowski graduated from Northwestern Lehigh High School and graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree from Muhlenberg College, Allentown.

At Temple University School of Dentistry, Philadelphia, he finished first in his graduating class, was selected to Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society and received the following awards upon graduation: Academy of Oral Medicine for proficiency in oral medicine; Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity Award for highest academic standing and orthodontic certification from Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry.

Sadowski is board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. He has had a private practice of orthodontics in Pottsville since 1997.

Sadowski is past president of Schuylkill Dental Society and 4th District Dental Society.

In the community, he is involved with sponsorships and contributions to various youth activities and sport teams throughout Schuylkill County.

Appointment

Champ Holman, supervisor of Ryan Township, has been appointed to serve on the Nominations Committee of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors.

The committee nominates the association’s officers and executive board members for election by delegates at the association’s annual educational conference.

The association represents Pennsylvania’s 1,454 townships of the second class. These townships represent more residents — 5.4 million Pennsylvanians — than any other type of political subdivision in the commonwealth.

TAMAQUA — A former guidance counselor in the Tamaqua Area School District allegedly “engaged in nonprofessional communication with students,” according to online records from the state Department of Education.

The department said Nicole Henning, 24, surrendered her teaching certificate Feb. 2.

Henning was hired as a secondary guidance counselor in June 2014 and resigned in January. The school board accepted her resignation, effective Jan. 13, at its Jan. 20 meeting.

“It is alleged the educator engaged in nonprofessional communication with students,” the department wrote of Henning’s grounds for discipline.

Tamaqua Area School District Superintendent Carol Makuta did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Henning is not listed as an employee of the district on its website.

The Pottsville Republican-Herald was named the Flagship Print property of 2014 by Times-Shamrock Communications.

It marked the third time in six years the newspaper was honored as the group’s outstanding print performer.

Members of the Times-Shamrock Advisory Board, which includes publishers from across the Scranton-based media company, reviewed Times-Shamrock’s print properties, nominating newspapers that stood out for financial results and quality journalism before announcing the award.

“This honor was especially significant for me this year because of some of the outstanding work that was done out of more than 19 properties, representing dailies and community newspapers, throughout Pennsylvania,” Henry H. Nyce, publisher of The Republican-Herald, said. “One of those accomplishments was The Citizens’ Voice, Wilkes-Barre, exceeding the circulation volumes over The Times-Leader, also of Wilkes-Barre and it’s main competitor for many years.”

“However, it’s the people I work with every day that make our newspaper the winning Flagship Award. They are a passionate, hardworking group and work diligently, not only to better our publication, but also to improve our overall community,” he said.

“Each and every person on this staff is pursuing ways to make our newspaper, republicanherald.com, our RH mobile app and Schuylkill Living magazine a better experience for our readers,” he said.

The Republican-Herald was recognized with several industry awards in 2014.

The newspaper earned four awards in the 2014 Pennsylvania Newspaper Association Foundation Newspaper of the Year contest: two editorial awards, a promotion award and an advertising award.

“Schuylkill County remembers JFK 50 years later” took first place in special sections editorial category. The section, published Nov. 22, 2013, highlighted dozens of personal recollections of local people on the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

The Republican-Herald took another first-place award in the promotion category for advertisements featuring employees in the editorial and advertising departments and its campaign for unlimited access for subscribers of the newspaper. The promotion award is given to the news company that has shown exemplary work in promoting the industry and its own newspaper and media products.

The newspaper also earned honorable mention awards in the news excellence and advertising excellence categories.

The JFK anniversary section also took first place in the wild card category of the 2014 PNA Foundation Display Advertising Tearsheet Contest. The Mahanoy City sesquicentennial edition won first place for best special event/vendor support section. The Hamburg-er Festival won second place in the best campaign using multiple newspaper products.

The Republican-Herald won two awards in the Pennsylvania News Media Association’s 2014 Keystone Press Awards for work in 2013.

The staff won second place in the special project competition for the JFK anniversary special section while Sports Editor Leroy Boyer also won honorable mention for “The Dream Job” about Blue Mountain graduate Matt Stankiewitch heading off to play for the New England Patriots in the National Football League after he was signed as an undrafted free agent.

Also, the advertising department won three awards in the Interstate Advertising Managers’ Association annual conference at State College: first place for best ROP ad series, Grube Gynecology; first place for ad campaign using multiple newspaper products, Hamburg-er Festival; third place for most innovative idea, the JFK special section.

The Republican-Herald circulation department won awards in the 2014 PNA Foundation Newspaper Carrier of the Year Contest. In the Adult Division, Beverly Albert finished in a fifth-place tie. In the Senior Division, Lewis Poda finished fourth.

Debit card stolen

from unlocked car

HALIFAX — Someone stole a debit card from a checkbook in an unlocked car between March 8 and 9 in Dauphin County.

State police at Lykens said Jonathan Dalton was the victim of theft from his car at 45 Oak St., Halifax Township.

Anyone with information is asked to call state police at 717-362-8700 and refer to incident H04-2370616.

Woman faces

charges after stop

ELIZABETHVILLE — A woman from Elizabethville faces charges after a traffic stop at 6:50 p.m. Feb. 23 in Washington Township, Dauphin County.

State police at Lykens said Cristina Lynn Bulick, 30, was driving on Route 209, west of the Elizabethville borough line, when she was stopped, police said.

Police said she had an active arrest warrant and they determined during the stop she was driving under the influence of a controlled substance. She also had unidentified/unlabeled prescription medication, police said.

She was taken to the state police barracks for further evaluation.

Charges were filed at Magisterial District Judge Rebecca J. Margerum, Elizabethville’s office.

Police: Man put

pills in pocket

FRACKVILLE — An Ashland man was arrested by Frackville police and charged with retail theft after an incident about 10:40 a.m. Feb. 16 at Rite Aid on South Lehigh Avenue.

Police said Shane Reinoehl, 28, of 1010 Spruce St., stole a box of diet pills valued at $30.99 from the store. Reinoehl told officers he was shopping and had other items in his hand when he received a telephone call and placed the items in his pocket to look for a card, police said.

Police said the charges were filed at the request of manager Linda Fees.

2 injured in crash

near Rite Aid

Pottsville police investigated a crash with injuries that occurred about 3:50 p.m. Monday at Route 61, Claude A. Lord Boulevard, and Mill Creek Avenue.

Police said Leonard Wade, 71, of Pottsville, was driving a 2008 Ford Focus when he made a left turn out of the Rite Aid parking lot onto Mill Creek Avenue and drove in front of a 2010 Ford F-150 driven by Albert Sipe III, 59, of Warminster.

Wade and his front seat passenger, Bridget Wade, 42, of Pottsville, were injured and taken to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street by Schuylkill EMS.

Police said Leonard Wade was found at fault for the accident and is being cited.

Both vehicles sustained disabling damage and police said Pottsville firefighters assisted at the scene and with traffic control.

Charges pending

after knife incident

GIRARDVILLE — Charges are pending by Girardville police after an incident about 2 a.m. Feb. 28 at 334 W. Ogden St.

Police said officers were called to the home by Scott C. Blewis, 48, who reported his daughter, Courtney Blewis, 21, was trying to harm herself with a knife following an argument.

During the argument, police said, Courtney Blewis ran to get knives but was restrained. The younger Blewis complained of neck, back and rib pain she said was caused by her father but refused medical treatment.

Police said Courtney Blewis was taken to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street for evaluation and that charges are pending further investigation.

Police question

forgetful men

GIRARDVILLE — Girardville police said charges are pending against two men after an incident about 11 p.m. Feb. 27 on West Ogden Street.

Police said Joshua C. Davis, 23, of Ashland, was found with a syringe and a spoon and said his drug of choice was heroin but that he “cleaned up” and forgot the syringe was in his pocket.

Another man, Anthony Edmondson, 25, whose address was not available, was found with a small amount of a green leafy substance and told officers that he forgot he had a small amount of marijuana on him, police said.

Charges against both men will be filed with Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, at the conclusion of the investigation, police said.

Police investigate

mugging of $10

GIRARDVILLE — Girardville police are investigating a robbery that was reported to their department about 6:45 p.m. Feb. 10.

Police said Mary Knecht reported her son, Desi Knecht Jr., was robbed of $10 while at “Pony Patch,” an unmarked area that begins on Oak and William streets and continues along the creek.

Desi Knecht reported going down a path when an unidentified man came out of nowhere, demanded money, and put his hand on his shoulder and a knife against his back.

Desi Knecht said he gave the man $10 and the assailant then fled the area running west on Ogden Street, police said.

The man was wearing a black hoodie and attempted to disguise his voice, police said.

Officers said they were assisted by police from Ashland and Butler Township and state police at Frackville.

Anyone with information is asked to call police through the Schuylkill County Communications Center at 570-462-1991.

Mahanoy man

charged with DUI

MAHANOY CITY — A Mahanoy City man was charged with DUI by state police at Frackville after a vehicle stop about 9:10 p.m. Sunday on Mahanoy Avenue.

Police said they stopped a vehicle driven by William J. Wasser, 58, and found him to be under the influence of alcohol.

Wasser was taken to the state police barracks where a breath test determined his alcohol level was above the legal limit.

Charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker, Shenandoah, police said.

Man fails to attend

ordered session

A Pottsville man is free on bail after being charged with failing to meet the requirements placed on him for being designated a sexually violent predator.

Police said officers arrested James M. Lutz, 28, on Wednesday for failing to comply with his registration requirements after they were contacted by the Pennsylvania State Sexual Offender Assessment Board that learned Lutz failed to attend court ordered counseling.

Police said that as part of his classification as a sexually violent predator, Lutz is required to register his address, place of employment and attend monthly counseling.

When any of the requirements are not met, the police with jurisdiction are notified to take immediate action.

Lutz was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley, Pottsville, on a misdemeanor charge of failure to comply with registration requirements and released on $20,000 unsecured bail pending a preliminary hearing.

Script paper taken

from unlocked car

WILLIAMSTOWN — State police at Lykens are investigating a theft from a vehicle that occurred between Feb. 11 and March 11 at 419 W. Market St. in this Dauphin County community.

Police said Amie Delgado reported someone entered her unlocked vehicle and stole two pieces of doctor’s prescription paper that were made out to her before fleeing the area.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 717-362-8700.

Police arrest man

after Rt. 209 chase

A Pottsville man was jailed after leading police on a chase about 9:45 a.m. Wednesday along Route 209 in Branch Township.

State police at Lykens said Brandon S. Moyer, 27, was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge David J. Rossi, Tremont, on charges of fleeing or attempting to elude police, recklessly endangering another person, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI, reckless driving and driving with a suspended habitual offender license.

He was committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $50,000 bail, police said.

Police said they attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Moyer fled at a high rate of speed. A short time later, Moyer lost control of his 1999 Dodge Avenger and slid off the road before fleeing into the woods on foot.

He was quickly taken into custody and found to be under the influence and also have a hypodermic needle in his possession.

In addition, police said, Moyer has an active warrant from the state parole board.

Bank card taken

from woman

LYKENS — State police at Lykens are investigated a case of access device fraud, theft and identity theft that happened to a Lykens woman between 5 a.m. Sunday and 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Police said the woman reported someone stole her bank debit card and used it to make an unauthorized purchase.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 717-362-8700.

Beer, movies taken

from Lykens house

LYKENS — A burglary that occurrred between 4 a.m. and 4 p.m. March 1 in the 400 block of West Main Street in this Dauphin County community is being investigated by state police at Lykens.

Police said a resident said someone stole about 25 cans of beer from a 30 pack case, Blu-Ray movies and loose change before fleeing the home undetected.

The victim was not home at the time of the theft, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to call state police at Lykens at 717-362-8700.

Antiques stolen

from Berks store

HAMBURG — State police at Hamburg are investigating a burglary that ocurred between Jan. 16 and March 7 at the Antique Store, 5715 Old Route 22 in Upper Bern Township, Berks County.

Police said Ray Goelbert, Orwigsburg, reported someone entered the store and removed merchandise.

The items taken are still being determined and police ask that anyone with information contact them at 610-562-6885.

Man injured when

SUV strikes car

SUMMIT STATION — One person was injured in a two-vehicle crash that occurred about 1:25 p.m. March 8 on Route 183, just south of Summer Hill Road, in Wayne Township.

State police at Schuylkill Haven said Paul Bedway, 75, of Schuylkill Haven, was driving a 2007 Cadillac Escalade making a left turn from the Summit View Restaurant to travel north on Route 183.

Police said Bedway entered the left turn lane but then changed his mind, driving into the right lane where he was struck by a 2000 Dodge Neon being driven north by Mark A. Pennypacker, 35, of West Lawn.

Pennypacker was injured while Bedway and his passenger, Margaret Bedway, 66, also of Schuylkill Haven, were not hurt, police said, adding that Paul Bedway will be cited for not driving on roadways laned for traffic.

Summit Station firefighters assisted at the scene, police said.

A Carbon County man will be spending time on house arrest with electronic monitoring after having his probation and parole revoked March 6 in Schuylkill County Court.

Thomas G. Reabold, 68, of Lehighton, could remain on house arrest until almost the end of 2016, Judge John E. Domalakes ruled.

Domalakes also ordered Reabold to spend 12 months on probation after his parole ends. He made the defendant’s sentence effective on March 20 to give Reabold time to make the house arrest arrangements with Carbon County officials.

He revoked Reabold’s probation and parole after the defendant admitted violating it by committing a new crime.

Reabold originally pleaded guilty on June 4, 2014, to three separate charges of theft, with prosecutors withdrawing three counts of receiving stolen property.

At that time, Domalakes sentenced him to serve 38 days to 23 months in prison, plus an additional 12 months on probation and pay costs, $150 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and $5,150 restitution, amounts he still must pay under the terms of Friday’s order.

West Mahanoy Township police charged Reabold with committing one theft on April 19, 2013, while state police at Frackville alleged he committed the other two on July 4, 2013, and July 6, 2013.

Domalakes did not order Reabold returned to prison immediately after the defendant testified about his numerous health problems.

Reabold, who came to court with an oxygen tank, said he has cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, better known as COPD.

In other recent Schuylkill County Court action, Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, these people:

Cody L. Harris, 23, of Frackville; criminal mischief and theft; 12 months probation, $100 in CJEA payments and $1,113.97 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew charges of false identification to law enforcement, public drunkenness and receiving stolen property.

Tanner J. Manhart, 19, of Ashland; two counts of improper possession of access device and one each of theft and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle; 18 months probation, $100 in CJEA payments and $500 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of access device fraud and one of driving without a license.

Bradley C. McKeone, 23, of Minersville; fleeing or eluding police; 57 days to 23 months in prison and $50 payment to the CJEA. Prosecutors withdrew two counts each of terroristic threats and recklessly endangering another person and one each of robbery, theft and receiving stolen property.

Tiara R. Pleva, 30, of Pottsville; false identification to law enforcement and retail theft; 12 months probation, $25 fine, $50 CJEA payment and $4.20 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew charges of public drunkenness and disorderly conduct.

Thomas T. Reabold Sr., 47, of Shenandoah; four counts of theft and one each of criminal trespass and criminal mischief; 12 to 24 months in a state correctional institution, $200 in CJEA payments, $5,150 restitution and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew four counts of receiving stolen property and one each of burglary and possessing instrument of crime.

Jose L. Rivera, 31, of Bellport, New York; two charges of theft of leased property; 147 days to 12 months in prison, 11 months consecutive probation, $100 in CJEA payments $7,990.80 restitution and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew charges of conspiracy and receiving stolen property.

Michael Tyron, 44, of Frackville; arson, institutional vandalism and criminal mischief; 27 to 54 months in a state correctional institution, $50 CJEA payment, $597.50 restitution and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew 11 additional counts of arson and 11 counts of dangerous burning.

Joseph C. Weikel, 29, of Shenandoah; driving under the influence, false identification to law enforcement and stop sign violation; 72 hours to six months in prison, 12 months probation, $1,025 in fines, $300 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment, $50 bench warrant fee and $60 restitution to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street. Prosecutors withdrew an additional count of stop sign violation and a charge of careless driving.

Kayla A. Weikel, 24, of Shenandoah; two charges of retail theft; 18 months probation, $100 in CJEA payments and $100 in bench warrant fees.

Ernest L. Graham Jr., 51, of Pottsville; unsworn falsification to authorities and false statement under penalty; six to 12 months on house arrest with electronic monitoring and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of materially false written statement.

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

Schuylkill County District Attorney Christine Holman and the Schuylkill County detectives are asking for the public’s help in finding a man wanted for failing to appear at the county prison to begin serving his sentence.

Detectives said Craig J. Hendricks, 34, has a last known address of 694 Forest Lane, Pottsville.

Hendricks, detectives said, has an outstanding bench warrant against him after he failed to report to the Schuylkill County Prison as required.

The warrant against Hendricks is for charges of DUI, possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia, all misdemeanor offenses.

Detectives said Hendricks is described as being white, about 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing about 170 pounds.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Hendricks, or on any other fugitive in Schuylkill County, is asked to call the district attorney’s office at 570-628-1350 or the local police department. Anyone who comes in contact with Hendricks should call the Schuylkill County Communications Center immediately. All information received will remain confidential.

A complete list of Schuylkill County bench warrants is available on the Schuylkill County website at www.co.schuylkill.pa.us.

Bloomsburg

Nicole Farr, a communications major with a minor in geography, made the dean’s list at Bloomsburg University for the fall semester.

A 2011 graduate of Nativity BVM High School, she is a daughter of Mike and Amy Farr, Lake Wynonah, and granddaughter of Ted and Mary Lou Allar, North Manheim Township, and Inge Farr, Orwigsburg.

Duquesne

Michelle Delaney, Mechanicsburg, an education major, was named to the dean’s list of Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, for the fall semester with a 4.0.

She is a daughter of Marcia Delaney, Saint Clair, and the late Michael Delaney, Pottsville.

Alvernia

Kerilyn Mamrosh, Schuylkill Haven, a psychology major at Alvernia University-Schuylkill Campus, made the dean’s list for the fall semester with a 4.0 GPA.

She is a daughter of Deborah Mamrosh, Schuylkill Haven, and David Mamrosh, Pottsville.

Lipscomb

Paige Stoner, Pottsville, an interdisciplinary teaching K-6 major, made the dean’s list for the fall semester at Lipscomb University, Nashville, Tenn.

She is a graduate of Pottsville Area High School.

Kutztown

The following local residents were named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Kutztown University:

Hamburg — Emily Becker, Lynda Boulden, Allison Epting, Logan Hartman, Ellyn Kershner, Bethann Kulp, Michael Oswald, Courtney Sensenig, Michelle Smith, David Wagaman, Leah Wohlrab

Lansford — Sarah-Mary Tucker

Williamstown — Jessica Doyle, Luke Wynn

Tamaqua — Dana Ansbach, Katelyn Ciccozzi, Alan Duffy-Guy, Jill Hoppes, Sheryl McKlveen, Kailee Rottet, Chesley Valentine, Ashley Wentz

Pine Grove — Kaitlyn Bachert, Andrew Deichert, Kristen Fessler, Ashley Rank, Miranda Kae Smith

Saint Clair — Samuel Benning, Joshua Herring, Lindsay Hand, Kevin Sninsky, Samantha Koons

Pottsville — Brandon Bridy, Zachary Dixon, Kaitlin Leffler, Kaitlynn Mervine, Sara Anne Saurazas

Schuylkill Haven — Erin Byerly, Taylor Charles, Jennifer Lynn Cresswell, Gina Lassandro, Sydney Oberholtzer, Kyle Schuetrum, Matthew Tothero

McAdoo — Myla Deganich, Amy Skotek

Shenandoah — Jillian Dove, Kristen Florio

Barnesville — Andrew Faust

Auburn — Mackenzie Lloyd, Taryn Gehman, Joseph Ritzko, Lindsey Sinton, Nikki Snyder

Mount Carbon — Letecia Garcia

Frackville — Tanya Halupa, Derek Kovach, Allison Tenaglia

Andreas — Emily Hansler, Emily Mantz

New Ringgold — Alyssa Heim, Sarah Lesisko, Derek Linkhorst, Emily Stemmler

Ringtown — Margaret Kiefer, Jolene Pawlowski

Coaldale — Zackary King

Tower City — Nicole Klinger

Ashland — Amy Laudeman

Orwigsburg — Kensley Moyer, Brett Smulligan

Minersville — Siera Wilson

Brockton — Zachary Zubris.

Saint Joseph’s

The following local students at Saint Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, were named to the dean’s list for the fall semester:

Allison Ebling, Schuylkill Haven, majoring in accounting; Kristian Zanis, Pottsville, actuarial science; Brianna Amos, Pottsville, biology; Jacqueline Boran, Orwigsburg, biology; Thomas Campion, Pottsville, chemical biology; Rachel Troxell, Pine Grove, chemistry; Caitlin Goodman, Pottsville, finance; Emily Fannick, Frackville, psychology; and Caren Moyer, Pottsville, undecided business.

Susquehanna

The following local students were named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove:

Joann Butkus, Barnesville, majoring in biochemistry, is a daughter of Peter and Diane Butkus and a 2014 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School.

Ashley Machamer, Lykens, a psychology major, is a daughter of Jennifer and Adam Kramer and Mark and Brooke Machamer. She is a 2013 graduate of Williams Valley High School.

Kelsey Miller, Muir, a biology major, is a daughter of Heidi Brummett and a 2014 graduate of Williams Valley High School.

Jaynie Moran, Minersville, a biology major, is a daughter of Tom and Sharon Moran and a 2014 graduate of Minersville Area High School.

Damian Munoz, Tamaqua, a business administration major, is a son of Kyra Dale and a 2014 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School.

Grace Smith, Schuylkill Haven, a business administration and strategic communications major, is a daughter of Jeff and Linda Smith and a 2012 graduate of Blue Mountain High School.

Derek Tarconish, Middleport, a communications and economics major, is a son of Michael and Pam Tarconish and a 2012 graduate of Pottsville Area High School.

Nathaniel Yingling, Pottsville, a business administration major, is a son of Tim and Carmel Yingling and a 2011 graduate of Blue Mountain High School.

Wilkes

The following local residents were named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Wilkes University, Wilkes-Barre:

Dana Achenbach, Frackville; Tyler Bartol, Auburn; Devon Bashore, Schuylkill Haven; Lacey Bixler, Williamstown; Amanda Boyer, Girardville; Joshua Brown, Hamburg; Jeanne Cannon, Coaldale; Ryan Cicioni, Frackville; Samantha Davidson, Shenandoah; Emily Foster, Schuylkill Haven; Holly Hinkel, Auburn; Elizabeth Jensolowsky, Ringtown; Meghan Kisela, Schuylkill Haven; Seth Kunkel, Hamburg; Grace Lorence, Cumbola; Courtney Matina, Pottsville; Sarah Metzinger, Ashland; Jenna Michaels, Barnesville; Colton Miller, Hegins; Nicholas Mione and Courtney Moyer, Pottsville; Jordan Mroczka, Mahanoy City; Annelise Przywara and Robert Schappell, Pottsville; Kirsten Reinoehl, Ringtown; Matthew Seltzer, Schuylkill Haven; Felicia Snyder, Tower City; Makia Stocker, Andreas; Zachary Sullivan, Pottsville; Kate Thomas, Schuylkill Haven; Shelby Trumbo, Landingville; Christine Trusky, Hegins; Brandon Whiteash and Rachel Wood, Pottsville; Brittany Wills, Orwigsburg.

Elizabethtown

The following local residents earned Emergent Scholar honors at Elizabethtown College:

Tyler Butkus, Barnesville, a junior chemistry major; Peter Harding, Orwigsburg, a sophomore education major; Holly Sofka, a sophomore biology major; and Eric Yoder, Port Carbon, a junior fine and performing arts major.

Emergent Scholars must have attained at least a 3.75 cumulative grade-point average at the end of their first three semesters. Qualified students are full-time students who have not previously attended another college or university for full-time.

Penn State

Julia Schuller, a sophomore at Penn State Schuylkill campus, received The President Sparks Award that recognizes academic excellence. The award is presented annually to those undergraduate degree candidates who have earned a 4.0 cumulative GPA based on at least 36 graded Penn State credits.

Julia is president of the PSSB at Penn State and is an intern at the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce.

She is a daughter of Ed and Wendy Schuller, Schuylkill Haven.

Kutztown

Jillian E. Bickelman, a senior communications/public relations major, was recently inducted into Lambda Pi Eta Communication Honors Fraternity at Kutztown University.

A 2011 graduate of Blue Mountain High School, she is a daughter of John and Diane Bickelman, Schuylkill Haven.

McADOO — The borough council combined a work session that was canceled last week with its regular meeting Tuesday.

The council tabled an amendment to its garbage ordinance for more discussion.

Councilwoman Marion DeBalko said the council began negotiations with the borough police department toward a contract but that right now it is in the early stages and nothing has been finalized.

Complaints

Mayor Stephan Holly told the council a resident was cited for throwing snow back onto the street. He said someone reported the act, prompting the police department to investigate.

Councilwoman Mary Labert said a plow pushed snow from the alley in front of her house, but DeBalko was quick to say Labert wasn’t alone on that complaint. DeBalko said she heard a few complaints to that effect Tuesday. Holly also heard plowing complaints after the last snowstorm.

Randy Schoenberger, Kennedy Drive, complained about the plow pushing snow back onto his property.

“I still can’t get in and out of my driveway properly,” he said.

Schoenberger also complained about large potholes on Kennedy Drive.

“Nothing is being done,” he said.

Council President Joe Madochick said those problems would be addressed.

Holly also cleared up some accusations he heard about himself in the borough. He said someone said he was using the borough plow, when in fact he used his own plow, to plow his property.

He said he was additionally wrongly accused of using the borough to remove a star used for Christmas ornaments.

“That’s a bunch of hogwash,” Holly said. “I personally removed the star” and added that he has a video showing it.

Vacant store

The mayor asked the council about a large storefront window that was smashed in the former Kline Store, which is now empty.

Madochick wasn’t sure how it occurred but said perhaps heavy winds might have been responsible. The window fell out and smashed onto the sidewalk in front of the store on Kennedy Drive.

“Mayor, that is owned by Schuylkill County Properties’ Jeremy Hunter and he did not show up for his court hearing for the Kline property building,” DeBalko said.

“I did not appreciate how he cleaned it up to begin with, but I think the police officers did cite him for leaving the glass on the sidewalk and in the display window. I guess they are working on it.”

Business parking

John Shigo III, son of Councilman John Shigo Jr. and manager of The Strand, expressed concerns to the council regarding the number of businesses that have closed in McAdoo in recent months and, as a business owner on West Blaine Street, he believes the borough needs more parking.

His solution centers around the borough’s parking permits and a fee of $10 per month.

“I think $10 a month or $100 a year is very, very cheap. A person can park for nine hours with the permit (and it) ties up valuable parking space for businesses,” Shigo said.

He would like to see the borough suspend the parking permits to allow business customers to use the parking spaces. He mentioned a number of options or alternatives the borough should consider to help businesses with parking for their customers.

If it takes stricter enforcement of police patrolling the parking meters, he said, the borough should alert the police department.

Madochick suggested discussion by council committee members to try to resolve the problem. He said a meter bag for each business might help.

Other issues

• Former council member Clara Preputnick wanted to know why the McAdoo Police Department did not attend a seminar in Schuylkill County instructing police officers on how to administer a drug following a drug overdose. Preputnick said all the police departments in the county were notified about the seminar. She added that the county had a seminar on terrorism at the schools and the McAdoo Police Department was one of the few that did not attend. Preputnick said that even though McAdoo-Kelayres Elementary/Middle School is in Kline Township, it is close enough for the borough to be concerned about terroristic activity. Holly said he would ask police Chief Jeff Wainwright about it.

• The council approved a request from the McAdoo Fire Company to close two alleys for its annual bazaar June 18-20.

• The council approved Modern Recovery Solutions to recoup delinquent garbage bills for two units billed on East Blaine Street. The council wants the full amount rather than partial settlement. The names on the delinquent accounts were not revealed.

Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street

To Kenneth III and Kristi Arner Adams, Llewellyn, a son, Feb. 21.

To Keath Shaffer and Amber Morgan, Minersville, a son, March 4.

Pottsville Rotary

Pottsville Area High School seniors Connor Hinchcliffe and Rachel Coyle and Nativity BVM High School seniors Collin McGovern and Dominic Piccioni were honored as Pottsville Rotary students of the month for February.

Connor is a son of Steve and Heather Hinchliffe, Pottsville, and is a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society. He ranks 13th in his class with a 3.8 GPA.

Connor is a member of the ecology, Leo and Spanish clubs, SADD and basketball and baseball teams. He also referees youth basketball games.

Connor plans to play baseball at LaSalle University, Philadelphia, and major in accounting.

Rachel is a daughter of Michael and Carole Coyle, Pottsville, and is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society and Quill & Scroll National Honor Society for journalism students. She is ranked ninth in her class.

Rachel has been on the high school softball team for four years and earned a varsity letter, yearbook staff for three years including being junior year editor and senior year editor in chief, class treasurer for four years and a member of the Leo and Spanish clubs for three years. Rachel has worked as a playground counselor for the City of Pottsville during the summers of 2013 and 2014, and been a confirmation teacher at Trinity Lutheran Church, Pottsville.

She plans to attend Penn State University and major in architectural engineering.

Collin is a son of Rob and Sue McGovern, Pottsville, and a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Parish, Pottsville. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Science National Honor Society and is a member of student government.

Collin is involved in the Interact, math and science clubs and also plays football and baseball. He plans to attend either Elizabethtown College or Wilkes University, Wilkes-Barre, and major in business.

Dominic is a son of Henry and Karen Piccioni, Schuylkill Haven. He is in the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society and math, Interact and science clubs.

Dominic plays football and baseball and received the T-102 Player of the Week award. He plans to attend Temple University, Philadelphia, and major in pre-pharmacy.

ASHLAND — The borough council approved applying for two grants for recreation and demolition purposes during Wednesday’s meeting.

The first action was the adoption of a resolution to apply for a $60,000 grant through the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program for Eureka Park. At the February meeting, the council gave Alfred Benesch & Co., Pottsville, permission to prepare the application for $550.

Local governments, county governments and nonprofit organizations can apply for C2P2 funding to assist them with addressing their recreation and conservation needs as well as supporting economically beneficial recreational tourism initiatives.

The borough applied for the state funds last year but funding ran out. Borough Manager Raymond Jones Jr. said the current application is for the same grant. Benesch refreshed last year’s application with current pricing.

If the grant is obtained, the funds will be used to install a tot lot, volleyball court and handicapped access improvements.

The council also adopted a resolution to apply for county demolition funds for 1011-1013 Market St. Those properties were submitted for funding last year but the grant was not awarded.

The resolution states that the borough will pay 25 percent of the demolition costs.

In other business, the council:

• Approved a request from the borough of Girardville to use the borough’s street sweeper to clean streets in preparation for the 12th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday.

• Approved the disposal of two 1985 Chevrolet Blazers. One was a police vehicle and the other a utility vehicle. Both have been out of service for more than a year.

• Hired Brandon Cohick as a part-time police officer.

MOLLEYSTOWN — The Tremont Township supervisors announced March 2 that another natural gas pipeline is expected to be constructed in the area.

Information about the project was received in February from Universal Field Services, Tulsa, Oklahoma, alerting supervisors that affected property owners would be receiving survey permission letters.

According to the Feb. 12 letter, Future Power PA LLC is developing a natural gas-fired combined cycle electric power plant in Porter Township, near Good Spring, and required a new 10- to 12-inch natural gas pipeline be constructed. The line will begin in Heidelberg Township, Berks County, and run through Tremont, Porter, and Frailey townships in Schuylkill County, a distance of approximately 23 miles.

The construction of the new power plant is expected to begin in the final quarter of 2015 and be complete during the first quarter of 2018, while the pipeline will start in mid-2016 and be complete by mid-2017. Both projects will require 300 construction workers. The company claimed most of the permanent positions will be filled by local people.

Michael Witzing, spokesman for Future Power PA, said the electricity generated by the new plant, Good Spring NGCC, will be sold on the state’s open market.

Future Power is owned by EmberClear Corp., Moosic, and Tyr Energy, Kansas City, Kansas.

Tax collectors

Solicitor Mark Barket reviewed the provisions of Act 164, effective Jan. 1, 2015, covering tax collectors.

According to Barket, the law required all tax collectors be qualified by both training and exam. He said current collectors are considered qualified, although six hours of training is required yearly.

The new law also required the appointment of a deputy tax collector who would fill in for the elected collector if he is incapacitated, Barkey said. However, the deputy could help the elected collector at other times. The deputy must also be approved by the state as well as the appropriate insurance company. Barket suggested the state Department of Community and Economic Development be contacted for other requirements involving the deputy.

In other business:

• Two liquid fuels checks were received totaling $34,425.41, which included $14,280 turn-back money for Molleystown Road. According to Tremont Township Vice Chairman Herman Lengle, the road was owned by the state before it was turned over to the township in 1983.

• State Rep. Mike Tobash, R-125, informed the board he opened a new office at 200 S. West St., Williamstown. Office hours are from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Friday. Other times are available by appointment.

Deeds

Auburn — Fulton Bank NA to Margaret T. DiPisa; 412 Washington St.; $19,500.

Cass Township — Peggy Ann Waddell to Tammy Carroll; 1121 Valley Road; $1.

Coaldale — Sally A. Christopher to Tina Marie Frets; 214 W. High St.; $16,000.

East Brunswick Township — Brinkerhoff Enterprises Inc. to George A. Beiswinger II; 71.957-acre property on Route 895; $225,000.

East Union Township — Lorraine Schmerfeld and John J. Schmerfeld to John J. Schmerfeld; 3-acre property on Vine Street; $1.

Kline Township — Lois Koslosky, individually and as executrix of the Estate of Velma Thrash, and Constance Marszalek to James M. and Rebekah R. Paul; 10 Keishaw St.; $38,000.

Mahanoy City — Jose Quezada to Junior Perez; 1119 E. Pine St.; $1.

Hector Trinidad to Junior Perez; 604 E. Pine St.; $1.