A federal proposal to combat climate change drew mixed reactions from Pennsylvania officials, who alternately focused on its environment and public health effects versus its impact on the state’s economy.

The Obama Administration’s final Clean Power Plan, announced Monday, will force carbon dioxide cutbacks in Pennsylvania, an electricity-exporting state whose power plants emit the third-highest amount of carbon dioxide in the U.S. per year, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency data.

The rule is the first in American history targeting carbon dioxide emissions from existing power plants, the highest-emitting sector in the country. The vast majority of international climate scientists point to carbon dioxide as the most significant of greenhouse gases causing global warming.

The EPA’s final rule will require Pennsylvania to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide pollution per unit of electricity by about 35 percent of 2012 levels by 2030.

The plan offers states the choice of how to meet progressively stringent goals, the first of which takes effect in 2022. Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration must now decide how to implement the plan, a task the governor addressed in a Monday statement.

“My administration is committed to making the Clean Power Plan work for Pennsylvania,” Wolf said. Clean coal, natural gas, solar, wind and other power sources will all be part of his strategy, he said.

State environmental secretary John Quigley said cutting power plant pollution, using lower-emitting natural gas, supporting nuclear plants, adding more renewable energy and improving energy efficiency will all be part of the state’s plan.

Most of Northeast Pennsylvania’s existing electricity generation is already carbon-free. Its largest generator is Talen Energy’s Susquehanna Steam nuclear plant near Berwick. Several local wind farms and the hydroelectric plant at Lake Wallenpaupack recently spun off from PPL also provide energy with no emissions.

However, three large natural gas-fired power plants are proposed or under construction in the region, including a 1,500-megawatt plant in Jessup. Much smaller electricity generators at Keystone Sanitary Landfill and PEI Power Corp.’s Archbald station emit carbon dioxide when they burn landfill gas. UGI also operates a small natural gas plant near Hunlock Creek in Luzerne County.

Northeast Pennsylvania’s federal legislators reactions to the plan largely followed party lines.

In November, Democratic Sen. Bob Casey submitted a 22-page comment commending the EPA’s purpose and intent but urging the agency to not unfairly burden Pennsylvania with renewable energy mandates relative to other states.

On Monday, Republican Sen. Pat Toomey praised coal through a spokesperson as a “domestically sourced, low-cost form of energy which helps sustain jobs for Pennsylvania and beyond.”

“Nevertheless, the Obama administration continues to implement policies that will make energy more expensive for hard-working Pennsylvanians while destroying good, family-sustaining jobs,” he said.

In his own statement, U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright, D-17, Moosic, said the plan would “protect public health, invest in clean, renewable energy development, boost energy efficiency measures and lower electric bills in the long run.”

U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta, R-11, Hazleton, said in a statement that Pennsylvania “will be a clear loser” under this plan, which could place its 36,000 coal jobs at risk.

U.S. Rep. Tom Marino, R-10, Williamsport, is still reviewing the full text of the 1,560-page rule, released this afternoon, spokesman Ryan Shucard said.

“But if the EPA’s history, especially under this administration, shows us anything, it’s a bad rule,” he said in an email.

The EPA made several tweaks to Pennsylvania’s requirements after a six-month public comment period, slightly relaxing interim and final cutback goals compared to those first proposed in June 2014. The agency also updated its estimate of Pennsylvania’s 2012 emissions based on public comments.

The EPA will publish the final rule Sept. 4 in the Federal Register. The state Department of Environmental Protection plans to announce details about public hearings across the state soon.

As the governor and DEP create the plan, the state Public Utility Commission will study its effect on utilities and consumers, Chairman Gladys M. Brown said in a statement. The agency will also study how the rules interact with state programs, including Pennsylvania’s alternative energy portfolio standards that require electric utilities to draw power from a certain percentage of alternative energy.

Pennsylvania’s initial plan is due June 30, 2016.

HARRISBURG — Gov. Tom Wolf named a retired 30-year veteran trooper from Chester County to lead the state police.

If confirmed by the Senate, Tyree C. Blocker, 62, would be the second black state police commissioner.

The nomination comes nearly two months after the Republican-controlled Senate voted against confirming Marcus Brown, Wolf’s first nominee for commissioner. Ronald Sharpe was appointed as the first black state police commissioner in 1987 by Gov. Robert P. Casey.

“Major Blocker will build on the strong foundation of the traditions and culture of the Pennsylvania State Police while also looking for opportunities to ensure the force reflects the diversity of Pennsylvania,” Wolf said.

Blocker started his career with the state police as a trooper in 1975, and worked his way up to the rank of major when he retired in 2005. He has experience in patrolling, criminal investigation, administration and an extensive background in drug law enforcement, having reorganized the agency’s Bureau of Drug Law Enforcement.

That background will be an asset in helping the state police stop the drug trafficking organizations that fuel the heroin crisis in Pennsylvania, Wolf said.

In recent years, Blocker has been a consultant for George Mason University, a minister of national security for the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago and owner of Future Gem Fitness Corp.

He will serve as commissioner in an acting capacity until Senate confirmation sometime in the fall.

Sen. John Blake, D-22, Archbald, called Blocker an “excellent choice” who is uniquely qualified to work with all levels of law enforcement and is a proven leader within the state police.

“We look forward to working with Major Blocker on the critical issues facing our department and the 12 million citizens we serve,” the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association said.

Blocker would take the helm in the wake of the controversy over Brown’s nomination and the extensive manhunt last fall for the accused killer of Cpl. Bryon K. Dickson II, Dunmore, in an ambush outside the Blooming Grove state police barracks in Pike County.

Eric Matthew Frein, Canadensis, faces first-degree murder and other charges for the sniper attack.

Brown, a former Maryland state police superintendent, was touted as someone who could bring more women and minorities into the ranks of the state police. His nomination drew controversy over such issues as wearing a trooper’s uniform as an outsider and statements about law enforcement being responsible for racial issues.

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — A Sunday night fire that left a family of five homeless has been ruled an accident.

Flames were discovered about 7:30 p.m. at the 204 Saint John St. home of Joseph and Jen Weigley and their three sons, Joseph Jr., Jonah and Jaren.

Schuylkill Haven Assistant Fire Chief James Reed, with the help of state police fire marshal Trooper John Burns of the Frackville barracks, said the fire was determined to be accidental.

“It started in the kitchen and was electrical,” Reed said.

The Weigley family was not home, but their three pets, two dogs and a cat, were inside when the fire broke out.

Reed said firefighters were able to rescue a dog and cat, both of whom were worked on by Schuylkill EMS and taken to an Allentown veterinary hospital.

Reed said both animals survived and were expected to be released from that hospital Monday afternoon. The second dog escaped the home when neighbors discovered the fire and opened a door, allowing the animal to exit.

The blaze was discovered about 7:30 p.m. when neighbors Jon and Jonna Reilly and their 18-month-old daughter, Raelyn, who live at 206 Saint John St., were in their yard grilling.

Jonna Reilly and her husband heard a smoke alarm, looked into the kitchen of the neighboring home and saw it was engulfed in flames.

The woman said while her husband called 911 she went and managed to get one of the family dogs out while another was rescued by firefighters.

“We were just relaxing in the yard and decided to grill when we heard the (smoke) alarm,” Jonna Reilly said. “It’s a shame, they’re a terrific family. We will do anything we can for them.”

All Schuylkill Haven firefighters responded along with volunteers from Pottsville, Orwigsburg, Deer Lake-West Brunswick Township, Landingville and the Pottsville Fire Department Rapid Intervention Team.

Schuylkill Haven Fire Police assisted with traffic control by shutting down St. John Street and connecting streets throughout the course of the fire.

PORT CLINTON — State police at Schuylkill Haven have identified the man who died Sunday after swimming at “The Rock” in the Schuylkill River.

Davyd Tarasyuk, 20, of Philadelphia, attempted to swim across the river and encountered difficulty doing so. Several of his brothers tried to bring him to shore, but also became exhausted after trying to get to him, police said. His body was found in about 10 feet of water in the West Brunswick Township side of the river, which is near the Schuylkill County/Berks County line.

Carter Hoffman, a member of Schuylkill Haven Dive Rescue and Recovery Team, said the team was dispatched at 6:23 p.m.

Kyle Morgan, captain of the team, said divers recovered the man from the water. Union Fire Company No. 1, Hamburg, brought the man up to the road about 7:20 p.m. A machine was used to perform chest compressions as he was taken to Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, Bern Township, by Hamburg Ambulance. He was pronounced dead at 8:01 p.m.

Jarrod Emes, deputy fire chief with the Hamburg Fire Department, said Tarasyuk was in “active cardiac arrest” when he was found. Emes estimated the man was in the water for about 30 to 40 minutes before being recovered.

“Where he went in was right on the county line,” he said.

Emes said the dive team recovered the man within six minutes.

“We had to enter the West Brunswick side to enter the beach side,” he said of the difficult topography. He added that the water flow was moderate.

The area is not appropriate for swimming, Emes said.

“People need to understand that the river is dangerous. They need to respect the area,” he said.

He added, “People underestimate the current and what it does.”

State police at Schuylkill Haven were in charge of the investigation. Swimming is prohibited in the area and signs are “regularly ignored or torn down,” state police said. No one was able to comment if additional patrols were planned for the area or if the signs are still posted. State police routinely patrol the area.

The state Department of Environmental Protection posted an emergency access gate and “no swimming” signs after a 2006 drowning at the site. Those who are caught swimming could be cited for criminal trespass, which can mean penalties and fines up to $250.

Nicole Mackalonis, 22, of Minersville, was one of many people who were swimming in the area Sunday.

“We just decided it was a good day to come out,” she said.

She was not alone in thinking that.

“This place was packed (with swimmers),” Hoffman said.

Amanda Witman, state Department of Environmental Protection spokeswoman, said the area of the Kernsville Dam and surrounding property is owned by the state. She said no one from DEP was on scene Sunday nor would they have been called. The department would be notified if it was an environmental issue. The state police have jurisdiction in circumstances like Sunday’s.

“We are simply the property owner,” she said.

Fire departments from Shoemakersville, Virginville (including the dive team), Orwigsburg, Port Clinton and fire police responded to the scene along with state police.

SHENANDOAH — The heat of late July did not keep people from thinking about Christmas and children as hundreds of toys were donated to the Toys for Tots campaign.

The Chill Out Ice Cream Parlor & Snack Shop held a two-week campaign to collect the toys from July 15 to 30 through the popular campaign sponsored by the Marine Corps League in conjunction with the Pottsville Salvation Army.

On Saturday, Chill Out co-owners Robert and Anna Marie Decusky presented the large pile of toys and cash to regional Toys for Tots program coordinator Edward Quirin. Also on hand was Capt. Kevin Polito, commander, Pottsville Salvation Army, and many of the shop’s employees.

“The people were fantastic with their donations,” Anna Marie Decusky said before the presentation. “We offered a free sundae for every new unwrapped toy donated, and I would say over 90 percent would not even take the sundae. They were just too happy to give a toy.”

Decusky said the shop also asked for monetary donations to be used to purchase toys.

“We had a personal goal of trying to reach $500. We reached $620,” she said.

According to the Toys for Tots website, the mission of the Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.

During those months that the Toys for Tots program usually operates, Chill Out is closed. The employees asked the Decuskys to do a Christmas in July project for children. A call was made to the Salvation Army and the arrangements were made.

“It was a great experience,” Decusky said . “Everybody who came in said, ‘What a great time to do it.’ During the holidays, everybody is so busy and strapped for money, along with others asking for money. Some people came in with multiple toys. I don’t have an exact count, but we definitely got a couple of hundred toys.”

She added, “It brought a lot of good feeling to the employees, and it showed how good and generous the people of this area are.”

Robert and Anna Marie Decusky presented the toys and the $620 to Quirin, who explained how the money will be used.

“That’s incredible. Do you know what that buys? We can go direct to the manufacturers, so that’s worth about $1,600, and they give us free shipping,” Quirin said.

After the presentation of the donations, Quirin said he was impressed with what was done.

“This is wonderful. We never had any group come to us this early and want to have a fundraiser,” Quirin said. “They just did fantastic for their first time. This is unbelievable. The money alone or the toys alone would have been a great drive. We’re not used to seeing anything like this on a first attempt. This is the earliest collection start we’ve ever had in the 30 years I’ve been involved in it.”

“I am very impressed. It’s a wonderful success. It was a little bit odd to be contacted at this time of year for a Christmas event, but kudos to Chill Out for being forward thinking. This will definitely get our season off on the right foot,” Polito said. “We partner very closely with Toys for Tots. I believe we help almost 2,000 children in the Pottsville, Minersville and Saint Clair area. A lot of the toys that we give out will either come through our Angel Tags project or directly from Toys for Tots. They’re a crucial partner.”

The employees began to sort and prepare the toys for pickup. Store manager Tiffany Rutledge, Ashland, was the leading promoter of the project, and she was also happy it went so well.

“It’s excellent because this is going to help a lot of kids,” Rutledge said. “I remember waking up when I was a kid and not having much, and I also remember my Toys for Tots gift. I still have it, so it means a lot. Excellent.”

The 14 Stations of the Cross were stolen Saturday from the chapel walls at St. John the Baptist Church, 915 Mahantongo St.

According to a police report from the Pottsville police Monday, officers were dispatched to the church at 2:17 p.m. Saturday. The Rev. David Loeper told police that someone had stolen the 14 plaster wall hangings as well as two crystal candle sticks and a painted statue.

Police said that preliminary evidence suggests that they entered the church through an unlocked door between 10:30 a.m. and noon Saturday and left the building toward Howard Avenue. Police are still conducting supplemental interview and viewing nearby video surveillance.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to call Pottsville police at 570-622-1234, extension 332.

The backpacks donated by those in the community will make the start of school for children in the county a little easier.

On Monday, about 40 volunteers from Schuylkill United Way member agencies, as well as volunteers from several businesses, stuffed backpacks at the Salvation Army building, 400 Sanderson St., Pottsville, for about two hours.

“All 1,200 backpacks were really stuffed well,” Michelle Halabura, director of community relations, said.

Last year about 1,400 backpacks were given away.

Monetary donations from the public and from the Tamaqua and Pottsville Salvation Armies went to purchase the backpacks, Halabura said. The school supplies were donated from July 1 through July 31 during the 13th annual “Stuff the Bus” event held by the Schuylkill United Way. Drop-off locations were at various sites in the county. There is still time to drop off school supplies at Wal-Mart in Saint Clair. Donations will still be accepted until mid-August, Halabura said.

Seven of the 15 member agencies were there and filled backpacks with school supplies such as paper, pencils, notebooks, folders, rulers, erasers, pencil cases and glue. Volunteers were from TE Connectivity, a Lebanon County business with its headquarters in Harrisburg; Sapa Extrusions, Cressona; Schuylkill Area Community Foundation; Kohl’s, Pottsville; Reading Anthracite and Williamson, Friedberg & Jones LLC, a law firm, Pottsville.

“That’s a lot of backpacks, isn’t it?” Debbie Kocher, an employee with Child Development Inc., one of the partner agencies that will be getting backpacks for children, said to another volunteer.

She said the supplies help out children in need and take the pressure off parents or caregivers to buy school supplies.

Kylie Atkinson, 16, who attends Schuylkill Haven High School, said she is there for fun and to give back to the community. She said some students who attend school do not have a lot, and she is trying to do her part.

“I’ve seen kids that don’t even have a backpack,” she said, adding the school does what it can to help such students.

Deina Cords, 14, of Tamaqua, said she was also was there to contribute to the community. The eighth-grade student attends the Tamaqua Area School District. It was her first time volunteering for the cause.

Gavin Woodward, 9, and his brother, Evan, 11, both of Pottsville, were there also. Their dad works at Kohl’s.

“I love volunteering because it helps the community,” Evan said.

Kevin Polito, captain of the Salvation Army, was looking forward to more community events.

“This is impressive. This is really remarkable to see this many people in one place united in a common purpose,” he said.

Halabura said those needing a backpack can contact the Schuylkill United Way at 570-622-6421 or contact the various member agencies if they have prior assistance from there. A list is available on the agency’s website, www.schuylkillunitedway.org.

Divorces granted

Tanner C. Delvalle, Pottsville, from Courtney S. Delvalle, Pottsville.

Rachel Luiken, Pottsville, from Timothy E. Luiken, Pottsville.

Joseph J. Galada III, Tamaqua, from Danielle M. Donadi, McAdoo.

Cynthia Micklus, Schuylkill Haven, from Robert Micklus Jr., Schuylkill Haven.

Amber Rice, Tower City, from Garrett Rice, Tower City.

Jonathan Cicero, Saint Clair, and Rebecca Cicero, Pittsburgh.

Schaleen Weingart, Pottsville, from Tiffany M. Buttcher, Minersville.

Melody Ann Bosco, Ashland, from James Bosco, Ashland.

Scott A. Morrison, Orwigsburg, from Tarab Morrison, Kempton.

n Ashland: The Ashland Area Rotary Club’s chicken dinner and a concert by the Cressona band are set for Aug. 12 at Eureka Park. The chicken dinner will precede the concert, which will begin at 7 p.m. at the bandstand. The concert is free, and people are invited to bring folding chairs or blankets to enjoy the entertainment. Tickets for the chicken dinner are $9 each, and dinners include three pieces of baked chicken, baked potato, coleslaw, roll, dessert and a beverage. Dinners will be served from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Ashland Little League baseball refreshment stand at the park. Tickets are on sale until Thursday. To order a dinner, call Pat at 570-985-7416.

n Frackville: The Friendship Fire Company Auxiliary is sponsoring a bus trip to New York City on Nov. 14 to see the Christmas spectacular. The bus will leave at 8 a.m. from the fire company, Seventh and Pine streets. To register or for more information, call 570-874-3531.

n Jonestown: Naturalist/geologist Dave McNaughton and local historian Dave Ravegum will lead a hike on Saturday to the fossil site and historic Lock 5B of the Union Canal in Swatara State Park. Participants will meet at 10 a.m. at the Swopes Valley Trailhead, located about a half mile from Route 443 on the right side of Swopes Valley Road. People should bring water and bug spray and wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes. Fossil hunters should also have gloves and safety glasses. People will be allowed to keep whatever fossils they find. The hike will involve moderate terrain. The event is hosted by the Friends of Memorial Lake and Swatara State Park.

n Mount Carmel: Pennsylvania Retirees Subchapter 8601 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 13 will meet at 1 p.m. today at Zion Primitive Methodist Church, 33 N. Market St.

n Orwigsburg: Holy Family Adult Day Care is continuing to accept applications for the day care program, which is located along Route 443 at the former St. Francis Orphanage building. The program is licensed by the state Department of Aging and provides social and activity programs, therapeutic care and support services, according to a Holy Family release. Other benefits include daytime support for caregivers, meeting the special needs of adults with Alzheimer’s disease or stroke who need supervision but not 24-hour care, assistance with medication and personal care. It provides breakfast and cooked lunch with a snack in the afternoon. Anyone 60 or older and who meets program requirements is eligible. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call Linda Herb, program director, at 570-366-2924.

n Schuylkill Haven: The Schuylkill Haven Senior Citizens Association will meet at 7 p.m. Monday in the senior citizens and neighborhood center. Tickets will be on sale for the Senior Citizen Association picnic set for noon Aug. 24 at Island Park. Tickets are $15 each with a 2015 paid-up membership. Following the business meeting, there will be a program by Lennie McHugh and his working guide dog. McHugh has been using working guide dogs so that he can live a full life in spite of his blindness. Members and guests welcome at all open association meetings. Food pantry items will be collected. Needed items include peanut butter, jelly, spaghetti sauce, canned soups, canned meats — tuna, Spam, corned beef —canned pasta dishes, juices and similar fare.

n Schuylkill Haven: A Kauffman’s chicken barbecue and car wash are set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday at Liberty Fire Company No. 4, Columbia and St. James streets. Chicken barbecue platters are $7.50 each and also include baked potato, roll and applesauce. The cost for chicken only is $5. Meals are takeout only. The cost of a car wash is $5 per vehicle. For more information, call the fire company at 570-385-3341.

A Pottsville man was arrested last month by the state Attorney General’s Office for using the Internet for trying to have sexual contact with minors.

Attorney General Kathleen Kane said Luke John Zelinsky, 51, of 2250 W. Market St., was arrested on July 25 and charged with two counts of unlawful contact with a minor and one count each of criminal attempt to commit involuntary deviate sexual intercourse and criminal use of a communications facility.In a criminal complaint agents said Zelinsky posted a personal advertisement on the Internet allegedly seeking a sexual encounter with a mother and daughters or sisters.

An undercover agent then responded to the posting posing as a 39-year-old woman with two daughters, ages 9 and 13.

Through emails and text messages, agents said Zelinsky indicated his interest in engaging in sexual acts with the persons he believed were the female juveniles.

Agents said a meeting was set at a location in Pottsville for July 25, at which time Zelinsky was taken into custody and arrested.

Zelinsky posted bail at his preliminary arraignment and was tentatively scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing today. That hearing, however, will be rescheduled until a later date and heard by Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley, Pottsville.

Four other people were also charged in connection with the investigation, a continuous investigation by agents of the attorney general’s Child Predator Section.

Also charged with similar crimes were Evan M. Lawbaugh, 32, of Waynesboro, Franklin County; Marc L. Eversole, 23, of Milton, Northumberland County; Nicodemo Zangari, 71, of Lancaster, Lancaster County; and Ernest P. Campbell IV, 48, of Cabot, Butler County.

Kane said that suspected child predators can be reported to her office by calling the Child Predator Hotline at 800-385-1044.

Individuals who suspect an online predator or child sexual abuse can also send an anonymous tip to the office by texting PAKIDS and the tip to 847411.

Pole damaged

from crash in city

Pottsville Police investigated a crash that happened in the 500 block of Peacock Street where a vehicle struck a utility pole about 1:15 a.m. Sunday.

Police said Tiffany Woodward, 24, of Pottsville, was driving a 2005 Subaru Legacy west when she veered off of the road and hit a curb, causing a flat tire. The vehicle continued west and struck a utility pole on the right side of the road, causing extensive damage to the pole and disabling damage to the front of her car.

Woodward was treated at the scene by Schuylkill EMS for a small cut on her arm and her passenger, Matthew Stovall, 20, from Indiana, was transported to Schuylkill Medical Center South-Jackson Street for a laceration to his head.

Police said at the conclusion of the initial investigation Woodward was taken into custody and taken to Schuylkill Medical Center- South Jackson Street for blood-alcohol and chemical tests.

Both westbound lanes were partially closed and traffic detoured while PPL repaired the pole that was sheared off below the transformer, police said, adding that Pottsville firefighters assisted on scene with traffic control and with the damaged pole.

The Woodward vehicle was towed from the scene, police said.

Woman charged

after lewd acts

SHENANDOAH — A 44-year-old borough woman was arrested by Shenandoah Police and charged with exposing and performing a lewd act in public about 9:10 p.m. Friday.

Police said Kelly Bancroft, 149 Pioneer Drive, was charged with felony corruption of minors and misdemeanor offenses of indecent exposure and disorderly conduct.

Bancroft was arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, and committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $1,000 straight cash bail.

Police said officers were called to the area of 135 Pioneer Road for a report of a woman who dropped her pants and was acting lewdly in front of several children and adults.

The woman pulled up her pants and fled on foot before officers arrived. People at the scene identified Bancroft as the person responsible and she was subsequently located behind a trailer on the State Route 924 Farmer’s Market, police said.

Police said that while committing the crime, Bancroft ignored demands by several adults to stop and get dressed but only did so after being told officers were on the way.

Man faces simple assault charges

GIRARDVILLE — A 30-year-old borough man is facing charges of simple assault after an incident that happened at 372 W. Mahanoy Ave. about 12:05 a.m. Sunday.

State police at Frackville said Andrew C. Hendricks and a 38-year-old borough woman were drinking and became involved in a verbal argument over the woman not wanting Hendricks to drive his ATV drunk.

The argument turned physical when Hendricks threw the woman into their pool and held her head under water to scare her, police said. Inside the home after that, police said Hendricks grabbed the woman by the throat in a choking manner and tossed her into a washer and dryer and the onto the floor.

Hendricks will have to answer to the charge before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, police said.

3 injured in I-81 2-vehicle crash

McADOO — Three people suffered minor injuries in a two vehicle crash in the northbound lanes of Interstate 81, at mile marker 137.6 in Kline Township about 10:30 a.m. Saturday.

State police at Frackville said Balkar Singh, 54, of Quebec, was driving a 2005 Kenworth tractor trailer in the passing lane as Deborah Andino-Cabrera, 31, of Hazleton, was driving a 2002 Kia Sedona adjacent to the truck in the right lane.

Police said as both vehicles were negotiating a slight left curve, the Singh truck began to veer into the right lane where the side of the trailer struck the Andino-Cabrera vehicle.

Police said both drivers escaped injury while three people inside the Andino-Cabrera vehicle suffered minor injuries from shattered glass.

A 10-month-old infant in a child safety seat was not injured, police said, adding that Singh will be cited as a result of the crash.

Mall business cited

for false alarms

FRACKVILLE — State police at Frackville cited a New Castle Township business for false alarms.

Police said a citation was filed against Dunhams at the Schuylkill Mall after the latest alarm about 4:40 a.m. Saturday.

Police said the business allowed four false alarms in a consecutive 12-month period without correcting the problem.

The 38 Schuylkill County men who did not return home from the Vietnam War are being honored with a new exhibit at the Schuylkill County Historical Society.

The exhibit, entitled “The Schuylkill County Historical Society’s Salute to Our Vietnam Veterans and Fallen Heroes,” opened Monday and features wall displays with the photos and information on each of the men that died while serving in the military during the Vietnam War. The exhibit coincides with the 50th anniversary of America’s involvement in the Vietnam War from 1965-75.

“It’s an international historical event, and we tried to localize it,” J. Robert Zane, president of the Schuylkill County Historical Society board of directors, said Monday. “They may, by seeing this, be able to put a name and a face on the conflict, whether it is a family member or a neighbor.”

A total of 5,240 soldiers from Schuylkill County served in the Vietnam War — 38 were killed in Vietnam, four were killed en route to Vietnam and one was missing in action.

The historical society commissioned Reidler Decal, Saint Clair, for the seven 96-inch-by-48-inch displays in the main hallway. Listed next to each soldier’s photograph is his name, date of birth, military information and where his name appears on the Vietnam War memorial in Washington, D.C. The exhibit also has other items like photographs and political buttons.

“Their service should not be forgotten,” Thomas B. Drogalis, executive director of the historical society, said.

Drogalis said he wants the exhibit to serve as a “launching pad” to bring other Vietnam War artifacts to the historical society. The archives at the historical society do not have many Vietnam War items, and the organization is looking for people to donate things as well as support the cost of the exhibit, he said.

The exhibit is open to the public and for school field trips. Drogalis encouraged history teachers to bring their students. The exhibit will be open until Veterans Day in November.

“I think this is a terrific tribute to these 38 men that gave their lives,” David Derbes, board member, said.

Derbes is a Vietnam War veteran along with Bill Webber, board member and volunteer at the society.

“This wall means a lot in paying honor to the ones in Schuylkill County that did not come home,” Webber said.

Webber donated jungle fatigues and boots that soldiers wore in Vietnam during the war. While the fatigues were not actually worn in Vietnam, his brother’s boots were.

Other items in the exhibit came from retired Gen. George A. Joulwan and Carl “Boonie” Sterner, a member of the American Legion Post 38 and Veterans of the Vietnam War Post 29, Schuylkill County. One of the things Sterner donated was a flag of South Vietnam with the signatures of his fellow soldiers.

“I would spend more time on water than on land,” Sterner said, recalling some of his more pleasant memories from Vietnam.

He knew most of the names in the exhibit, like James G. Anderson. The first person on the display, Anderson graduated from Schuylkill Haven Area High School the same year as Sterner, and they completed basic training together.

“I think it is really neat,” Sterner said about the exhibit.

Sterner said the exhibit has been a long time in the making. Before the Vietnam memorial in Schuylkill Haven was dedicated in 1997, Sterner said the Veterans of the Vietnam War Post 29 tried to do something similar to the exhibit at the historical society, but it was too difficult for some family members, especially mothers, he said.

“Back then, it was just too soon,” Sterner said.

Sterner said the exhibit allows “other people to remember them too.”

“There were so many bad things about Vietnam when they came home,” his wife, Karen, said. “This is the complete opposite. It honors them.”

The Schuylkill County Historical Society, 305 N. Centre St., is open 1:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. For more information about the organization or how to donate, visit the organization’s website at www.schuylkillhistory.org or call 570-622-7540.

COALDALE — A fire Tuesday morning that destroyed a vacant duplex in Coaldale was intentionally set, officials say.

Coaldale fire Chief Steven Polischak said volunteers were called to the blaze about 4 a.m. at 38-40 W. Water St., Route 209. The building is close to the intersection of Fifth Street and next to the borough garage at 50 W. Water St.

Coaldale police Sgt. Keith Krapf said though the fire is still being investigated, it appeared that it was arson.

Polischak said firefighters found “heavy” fire coming from the double home when they arrived and flames shooting between 5 and 10 feet above the roof. The bulk of the fire, he said, appeared to be in the center of the home.

Despite the intensity of the flames, firefighters were able to keep them from spreading to two neighboring buildings.

Between 50 and 75 volunteer firefighters responded to the fire and were “aggressive” in extinguishing the flames, Polischak said. Most of them stayed until about 6 a.m., he said.

The 38 side sustained the most fire damage.

Polischak said it was too early to tell if the residence was salvageable.

Firefighters remained on scene until at least 10:30 a.m. while a Pennsylvania State Police fire marshal from the Frackville barracks investigated.

No one was believed to be inside the home during the fire and no first responders were injured, he said.

Firefighters from Coaldale, Lansford, Summit Hill, Tamaqua, Tuscarora and West Penn Township responded, as did emergency medical services from Tamaqua and Ryan Township.

The investigation into the fire continues and anyone with information is asked to call borough police at 570-645-3060 or the Schuylkill County Communications Center at 570-668-6100.

WICONISCO — A 19-year-old Lykens man was charged with arson and related offenses for setting fire to and destroying a trailer at 3:38 a.m. July 25 about 200 feet off of Market Street in Wiconisco Township, Dauphin County.

According to a press release from state police at Lykens sent Tuesday, Jeffrey Scott Bunger Jr. was arrested Tuesday and jailed at the Dauphin County Prison on $10,000 bail. Police said the Wiconisco Township Volunteer Fire Department responded to the fire at the trailer owned by PAC Investments.

The entire structure was completely burnt and destroyed, police said.

After putting out the fire, the fire chief requested a state police fire marshal and a criminal investigation. State police at Lykens, along with the Wiconisco Township Police Department, conducted a joint investigation that resulted in Bunger’s arrest.

Divorces granted

Jessica A. Gretsky, Schuylkill Haven, from Andrew A. Gretsky, Auburn.

Benjamin Arnold, Coaldale, from Kimberly Arnold, Coaldale.

Tammy L. Young, Middleport, from James B. Keating, no address listed.

Scott G. Rizzardi, Minersville, from Pamela J. Rizzardi, Minersville.

Natalie L. Smeltz, Leck Kill, from Matthew J. Smeltz, Hegins.

Cathy J. Yordy, Tremont, from Henry A. Yordy, Lebanon.

Thomas E. Nesbitt, Pottsville, from Cerrisse Taylor Nesbitt, Wheatly Heights, NY.

SAINT CLAIR — At their meeting Tuesday, the borough council approved a demolition request to the county of the Ritz Theater for an estimate of $60,000.

The borough took conservatorship over the dilapidated property, 31 N. Second St., after owner Nick Panko stopped caring for the property, Edward Brennan, borough council solicitor, said Tuesday. It has been progressively deteriorating for the past 15 years.

Various safety issues in the building, such as falling chimney pieces, have been taken care of by the borough over the years, but the building has become too unstable to touch up.

“The one back wall is falling. It won’t last the winter,” Brian Baldwin, borough council engineer, said.

The $60,000 estimate is based off of the size, square footage and type of building, so a close estimate is rough to find, he said.

The council agreed that they may have to put out demolition bids if the grant takes too long to finalize.

“I definitely want it down by wintertime,” James Larish, borough council president, said.

In other business, the Woodland Terrace single-family homes project may be slightly delayed now that Susquehanna Bank was bought out by BB&T.

When banks are bought out during a construction project, there is sometimes a delay, Baldwin said.

“Susquehanna Bank was close to awarding the project but they never did, so hopefully there won’t be too much in between time,” he said.

Woodland Terrace is a medium density residential area located on Elmwood Court and Fernwood Avenue in the borough and consists of 24 lots.

The council also approved a parcel of land at 39 S. Second St. to have ownership by Michael and Anne Dempsey, providing proper changes to the property have been made.

The borough council believes the owners intend to split the property into two smaller buildings and use the back half as a garage.

Early Tuesday morning, a thunderstorm caused a transformer to blow in the borough. The borough electric department worked through the late hours to fix it, for which Mayor Richard Tomko thanked them.

Borough treasurer Carol Sutzko also commended the borough fire department for keeping a fire from spreading to neighboring houses Tuesday at 325 S. Mill St.

The Mayor presented Sutzko a $1,058.25 check from the Washington Camp No. 75 Patriotic Order of the Sons of America for 57 new American flags for Second Street.

Woman charged

in stabbing

A 55-year-old Pottsville woman was jailed after a stabbing incident that was reported to Pottsville olice about 9:15 p.m. Saturday.

Police said Diane Doncheski, 318 N. Fourth St., Apt. 1, was taken into cus about 10:30 p.m. and arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, on charges of aggravated assault, simple assault and recklessly endangering another person.

Doncheski was then committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $25,000 straight cash bail set by Hale.

Police said officers were called to the apartment for a report of a person stabbed and found a 50-year-old Pottsville man lying on the floor with a steak knife embedded in the right side of his lower abdomen.

The man told officers that his estranged girlfriend, Doncheski, stabbed him after inviting him to come to her home, police said.

Police said the man reported that after the stabbing Doncheski left and he called 911.

The man was treated at the scene by Schuylkill EMS and then flown to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, in the MedEvac helicopter where, as of Sunday, he was listed in stable condition.

Police said their investigation into the incident is continuing.

Pottsville woman

faces DUI charges

MARYD — A 40-year-old Pottsville woman is facing charges after a traffic stop by state police at Frackville in Schuylkill Township about 12:35 a.m. July 26.

Police said they stopped a vehicle driven by Janet C. Magee on Route 209 and found the woman to be under the influence of a controlled substance and also with a small amount of marijuana in her possession.

She was taken to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street, where she refused a blood test. Charges of DUI and drug violations were filed with Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko, Port Carbon.

Woman charged

after traffic stop

GIRARDVILLE — Girardville police said charges are pending against a 28-year-old borough woman after a traffic stop on July 10.

Police said they stopped a vehicle driven by Catherine Pankov, 201 B St., after receiving a report of a reckless driver coming into the borough from Gilberton.

Police said they stopped the truck and Pankov tried to enter her home and was stopped. The woman said she took two antidepressant drugs and could hardly drive, police said, adding that Pankov could not produce a valid license plate, and the license plate on the vehicle was fraudulently changed from June 2015 to August 2015.

Police investigate

mischief incident

GIRARDVILLE — Girardville Police are investigating a criminal mischief incident that was reported on July 18.

Police said a woman called officers and reported someone caused damage to her vehicle by “keying” the passenger’s side.

Police said their investigation into the incident is continuing and anyone with information can contact them by calling 570-462-1991.

Theft from vehicle

being investigated

GIRARDVILLE — Girardville police are investigating a theft from a vehicle that happened sometime on July 24.

Police said Kevin Zimmerman, 501 A. St., reported someone stole a set of keys and a bottle of Ibuprofen from his vehicle and fled.

Police said their investigation into the incident is continuing, and anyone with information can contact them by calling 570-462-1991.

Woman charged

after crash

GIRARDVILLE — An 18-year-old Bloomsburg woman was charged with careless driving by Girardville police after she struck a steel fence that surrounds property at 14 Line St. about 6:30 p.m. Friday.

Police said Kristen Marie Arrigo, 303 Glen Ave., Apt. 8, will have to answer to the charge before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville.

Police said Arrigo was driving a Ford Focus and reported waiving to someone just prior to the crash. The car sustained two flat tires and damage to the left front and side and had to be towed from the scene, police said.

Drunk woman

faces charges

ASHLAND — Ashland police have filed charges against a 51-year-old borough woman after an incident outside of 935 Brock St. about 6 p.m. Saturday.

Police said Mary C. Bechtel, 925 Walnut St., will have to appear before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, on charges of resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Police said officers were called to the area for a report of a woman passed out on the sidewalk and found Bechtel in an intoxicated condition.

When Bechtel was awakened she became abusive with officers and began to yell and scream, prompting neighbors to come outside.

When being taken into custody for public drunkenness, police said Bechtel became combative, which led to her being tased and the officer receiving a minor cut in the scuffle.

After being hit with the Taser weapon police said the woman complied with placing her hands behind her back and was taken into custody.

HAZLETON — A former Hazleton nightclub operator touted as operating one of the largest synthetic party drug laboratories in the state was arrested for manufacturing the same drug in Columbia County a decade ago.

Martin “Marty” John Kelly, 32, of 500 Ridge Ave., Hazle Township, formerly of Shenandoah, had roughly 110 pounds of the party drug known as ecstasy in a clandestine laboratory in his home at the time of his arrest July 27, along with $37,000 in cash, according to the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.

In 2005, Kelly was arrested by Bloomsburg police on charges of possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, also ecstasy, which is methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA.

That charge, along with possession and unlawful consumption of malt or brewed beverages, were withdrawn and refiled as federal charges.

Under a plea agreement, Kelly pleaded guilty to the manufacture charge, while the other two charges were dismissed.

He was placed on supervised release and fined $600, according to court documents.

When that arrest was made, authorities also seized $43,700 in cash Kelly had in his possession.

Kelly is accused of making MDMA in the Hazle Township home. Labs that produce MDMA, court papers state, are “inherently” dangerous and present a potential for explosion, fire hazard and the release of noxious and toxic fumes.

In May 2012, Kelly was awarded the Young Entrepreneur of the Year award by the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce while he was owner of Shakers Bar, Anne’s Variety and Sweetie Pies, a pizzeria in West Hazleton.

In 2010, Kelly, who was operating Sweetie Pies Pizza at the corner of Broad Street and Route 924, took over the former Shenanigans/Oscar nightclub and intended to emphasize food.

But his plans did not materialize and Shakers, the name he gave to the club, subsequently closed. So did Sweetie Pies.

He reopened Shakers later as Pulse nightclub. Hazleton Mayor Joseph Yannuzzi said Thursday that for an unknown reason the liquor license for Shakers was placed in escrow, and Pulse was being operated as a bring-your-own-booze facility when Yannuzzi revoked his business license in fall 2014.

Information from the city’s code enforcement office indicated Kelly did not own the Shakers/Pulse building.

The state police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement in Wilkes-Barre confirmed a liquor license under the club’s previous name, Shakers, is also not active.

The business was closed by the city in fall 2014 due to health and code violations, according to the code office, and the issuance of its business permit is pending the result of a health department inspection.

Revocation of the business license was overturned after a hearing before Hazleton City Council in April. Council voted 4-1, with Councilman Keith Bast being the lone “no” vote, to reinstate the license. At that hearing, Kelly said his intention was to open as a late-night restaurant, which would no longer be a BYOB club.

But Rick Wech, from the city code enforcement office, said Thursday that Pulse was never reopened.

When state agents found the MDMA in Kelly’s home July 27, they were actually serving a search warrant in relation to a child pornography case they were investigating, court papers state.

In March, according to a search warrant, an agent with the attorney general’s office found at least 31 suspected child pornography charges for an Internet protocol, or IP, address belonging to Mike Ferko of 500 Ridge Ave. As part of that investigation, the search warrant states, multiple pieces of electronics were seized from Kelly, Ferko and a third person.

No charges have been filed in the child abuse investigation.

n Girardville: The Girardville Area Historical Society will meet at 7 p.m. Aug. 12 at its headquarters, 1 W. Main St. All area residents interested in the community’s history are welcome. The society meets the second Wednesday of the month.

n Mahanoy City: The Mahanoy City Visiting Nurse Association recently acknowledged the following memorials: For Marylou Garze from Bill and Judy Brayford, the family of Emma DeAngelo, Virginia Martin and family, and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Scully; for Ralph Klock from Lois Griffiths; for Gertrude Kufrovich from Lois Griffiths; for Danial Pupko from the Mahanoy Area Democratic Women. Information about the VNA was provided by Lois Griffiths.

n Mar Lin: The Schuylkill County Interagency Coordinating Council will hold its monthly meeting at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29, 17 Maple Ave. The purpose of the ICC is to promote a community-based collaboration that includes parents, professionals and providers of early intervention services as well as others interested in the health and welfare of children with development delays or physical mental handicapping conditions and their families. For more information, call 570-544-9131, ext. 1201.

n Nuremberg: The Nuremberg Community Players will hold auditions for “American Idle” from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday at the group’s theater, 283 Hazle St. Craig Sodero’s two-act comedy will be performed on Oct. 23, 24 and 25. NCP is a nonprofit 501(c)3 orgnization, operating since 1983. For more information, call 570-985-8553.

n Orwigsburg: The Schuylkill Racquet Club Pet Walk sponsored by the Hillside SPCA will be held at 10 a.m. Aug. 15 at the racquet club parking lot, 25 Greenview Road. The cost is $10. There will be prizes, T-shirts and pet massages. For more information, call 570-739-2731.

n Orwigsburg: The Orwigsburg Historical Society will hold Dine Out for History at the Brick House Grill, West Market Street, from 4 to 10 p.m. Tuesday. The cost is in accordance with menu items, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the society. The event will also include hourly prizes and trivia. For more information, call 570-617-7809.

n Pine Grove: The Ruth M. Steinert Memorial SPCA will sponsor “Wags and Whiskers” from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 29 at Providence Place Senior Living, 24 Hike Hollow Road. The event is a festival that will include animals that are available for adoption on the spot, as well as crafts and beauty vendors. There will also be food, beverages and a Chinese auction. A portion of the proceeds will go to the SPCA, according to a press release. For more information, call 717-283-4045, ext. 116.

n Port Carbon: Port Carbon Janet Eich Public Library will hold Miss Janet’s Preschool Story Time every Friday starting Sept. 11. The program is for children ages 3 to 5, with two classes scheduled for 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. and 3 to 4 p.m. Children must be registered in advance. The program runs through April 2016. For more information, call the library at 570-622-6115.

n Pottsville: The Schuylkill United Way’s partner agency organizations will host a free picnic from 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 14 at Barefield Park, 823 Terry Reiley Way. The event will feature activities for children, including a bounce house. Food and beverages will be provided by donations from Mrs. T’s Pierogies, Gordon Food Service and Wegmans. The rain date is Aug. 21.

n Ringtown: As a community outreach project, St Paul’s United Church of Christ, 100 E. Main St., will distribute free school supplies to school-age children on Aug. 12, with pickups from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The aim is to help children prepare for the upcoming school year.

TAMAQUA — The voices of more than 500 current and past borough residents were brought to life Tuesday evening with a downtown production by the Tamaqua Community Arts Center.

Inspired by more than 500 letters from residents, the Arts Center partnered with local businesses, churches and community groups and organizations “Dear Tamaqua ... In a New Light” that coincides with its National Night Out and Kidz Karnival fundraiser for the Tamaqua Salvation Army. The event is the culmination of a two-year project that started with a request for current and former residents to write letters collecting their memories of the past, thoughts on the present and hopes for the future in the borough.

“Now what we are doing is bringing those letters to life — the good, the bad and the hope for the future,” Leona Rega, art center director, said Tuesday.

The event was a collaborative venture between the Tamaqua Arts Center, the Tamaqua Safety Initiative and the Dear Tamaqua Leadership Committee to promote positive change in the community.

The mile-long walk through the borough streets started at the Tamaqua Train Station. From there, groups of about 25 people were first led down Broad Street and then down side streets and allies filled with artwork, music, block parties, food and videos from throughout the borough’s history.

Trolley and horse carriage rides were also incorporated into the journey as well as dance numbers by local studios and cheerleaders. On the stretch back to the train station, performers from the arts center read aloud the various letters as people walked by.

“The goal is to bridge the gap between the people that love the community and the people that hate the community,” Rega said. “They are going to see the community in a different light that they have never seen before.”

Rega said Touchstone Theatre put on a similar production in Bethlehem and they assisted with the project. She was expecting about 800 to 1,000 people to attend the event. It may have exceeded her expectations.

“This is really nice to see the community coming together,” Chris Morrison, borough mayor, said. “It’s a good picture of our community and people are seeing it in a new light.”

Morrison said the borough is rich in volunteers.

Micah Gursky, borough council president and member of the Leadership Committee, said the event is a way of engaging people in the community.

“We wanted to hear the voices we don’t usually have a chance to hear,” Gursky said. “It’s like a theater production put on by the community for the community based on those words and the stage is the town. The idea today is to get people to look at the community in a different way.”

Gursky said residents bought into the idea and sent their letters. Some of the letters were even written on bar coasters the committee provided to local bars for that purpose, he said. All the letters will be archived at the Tamaqua Public Library.

“I think it is awesome,” Tommy Leshko, Hometown, said after watching old video footage of the borough. “I’ve lived here for 25 years and a lot of this stuff you never see.”

“I think this is really cool,” his husband, Sean Leshko, originally from Mount Pocono, said. “It’s great seeing how these little towns in the area are so rich in history.”

Tommy said it shows the progress being made in the borough and hopes to see it become a tourist attraction.

“There is a lot of history in this town,” he said. “It’s nice to see a lot of it being brought to life.”