PINE GROVE — When it comes to fundraising efforts, Pine Grove Area students prove they have heart.

Elementary physical education teacher James Fickes announced at Thursday’s school board meeting that Pine Grove raised $24,000 in its Jump Rope For Heart campaign. It’s the largest collection in school history for the event and Pine Grove ranked first in fundraising in an 11-county area, he said.

In addition, three students were honored as the top individual fundraisers, collecting over $1,000 each. Fickes presented medals to Carley Brown, Marlena Burke and Kale Lengle. The medals stated, “I did my part to save a heart.”

Fickes had made a pledge to students, telling them he’d shave his head if they collected more than $20,000, which they accomplished. He sported his shorter, buzz cut at the meeting, and noted more than 350 Pine Grove students participated in the event which had a “Dog Day in the Park” theme.

Fickes and elementary Principal Sandra Burns presented a $24,000 check to Carol Woytovich, a representative for the American Heart Association.

“I’d like to thank the community of Pine Grove,” Woytovich said. “You’ve been extremely generous,” she said, praising the school board, administration, Fickes and his students for doing “an outstanding job.”

In other business, the board heard a report from Burns. She said students and staff are getting ready for upcoming PSSA testing. The school also held a brunch with its drivers as a way to touch base in regard to transportation needs as the school year progresses.

The student reward system is working well at the elementary level, she said.

The staff has continued with its “Terrific Tuesday” effort, making positive phone calls on Tuesdays to parents. More than 1,400 positive phone calls have been made and the elementary staff has been doing a “great” job, she said.

Middle school Vice Principal Cassidy Shults announced students would be participating in the junior county band festival; the seventh and eighth grade were hosting a dodgeball tournament; the after school Achieve program has 44 students participating; and more than $500 was raised in the Bowl for Kids Sake event. PSSA testing would run from mid- to late April, he said.

High school Principal Michael Janicelli praised the music department and its efforts in producing the latest musical, “Beauty and the Beast.” Board members received a surprise visit from the cast, as they sang “Be Our Guest,” while in full costume. The musical was held March 18 to 20.

Janicelli said the military ball was held last Saturday, and it was “exciting” to watch students run the event.

Pine Grove’s guidance department has organized a “Career Day” for April 1 where members of the community will speak to students about their occupations. A keynote address will follow in the auditorium.

The board also recognized Pine Grove students achieving athletic accomplishments in wrestling, archery and girls basketball.

Acting Superintendent Terrence Maher read a thank you letter from grandparents Stuart and Mary Frew for the invitation to attend the Student Council’s Grandparents’ Breakfast. They called the event a “truly enjoyable experience from beginning to end.” The senior citizens were served breakfast, could visit with their grandchildren and were able to see the first act of the high school musical.

Student representative serving on the school board, Delaney Hunter, told the board she was happy to hear the event was well-received. “It was nice to be able to bridge the generation gap,” she said.

Hunter also said she assisted at the community blood drive held March 17 at the ambulance building.

Board President David Lukasewicz thanked Hunter and fellow students who assisted.

In other matters, Shults recognized the following eighth-graders as December students of the month: Nathan Minnich and Koryn Kimmel; January students of the month: Karli Boyer, Dustin Dubbs and Riley Tobias; and February students of the month: Allison Butler, Karson Felty and Sarah Niemi.

The board approved the following:

• Architectural design not to exceed $19,000 for design and bid for a lighting repair project

• Initiating the paperwork examining HVAC and water heating system options through McClure

• To add Susan Barr, Robin Owens, Stefanie Kramer, Chelsea Crary and Brandi Gross to the support staff substitute list

• To allow Amanda Kenneff maternity/child rearing leave beginning May 20 and returning for the first teacher in-service day in August

• Adding Martin Judd, Peter Alburquerque and Cheryl Smith to the list of volunteers at the elementary and middle school

• Granting leave without pay to Amy Madenford, cleaning person, from June 24 to July 5 for personal reasons

• Allowing Jack Drey paternity leave beginning approximately April 25 and ending approximately May 2. He will be using sick leave.

• The second reading and final adoption of policy 004-membership; policy 011-principles of governance and leadership; policies 317, 417 and 517-conduct/disciplinary procedures; and policy 806-child abuse

Schuylkill Conservation District Manager Elizabeth “Liz” Hinkle is trading in her office to return to the farm.

Hinkle, who has been in the position since April 2010, is resigning April 1. She has been with the conservation district for nine years, previously as ag coordinator.

“I made it clear to everyone at the conservation district that my reasons for leaving were solely to do with my farm and family,” she said Wednesday. “I’ve enjoyed my job here at the district. I had no intention of leaving for another post and wasn’t actively looking to leave. It’s just a family business and I have to focus on that.”

Hinkle lives in Barry Township, where she has a farm with her husband. She also has a 3-year-old son and 7-month-old daughter. She is also still involved with her parents’ farm in Ringtown, which has been in the family for seven generations, she said.

“My husband and I are both from farms and now we have two children and we are hoping some day they have interest in it, too,” Hinkle said. “The farm has always been where I wanted to be. I wanted them to grow up working on the farm and I’m glad they will be able to be part of it. I always wanted to come back to the farm at some point and now was the right time.”

She said her decision had nothing to do with the 2014 criminal investigation regarding a former employee at the conservation district stealing more than $449,000 from the organization over the course of nearly seven years.

State police officially charged Virginia G. Kunigonis, who was employed as a fiscal technician, in January 2015 with five counts of forgery and one each of theft, theft by deception and access device fraud. Kunigonis was sentenced in February to spend one year in prison, followed by one year on supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution.

“It actually kept me here longer because I wanted to see it through and have closure before I left,” Hinkle said.

During her time as district manager, the Schuylkill Conservation District has held many educational and outreach programs in the county. Annual educational events include Schuylkill County Ag Day and the Bear Creek Festival.

“I truly believe in the work that the district does,” Hinkle said. “The great part is working with the people here. It’s a great group of people that really care about the people here and you can see that in the work that they do. I think I will miss that the most — the people and those I met along the way.”

On Wednesday, the Schuylkill Conservation District’s board of directors met to decide on Hinkle’s replacement. They picked Jenna Fehr, who has been the district’s conservation program coordinator since October 2013. The board’s recommendation still needs approval from the county commissioners.

“I see her ability to work as a team player and interact with the board and the staff,” Hinkle said. “Through the interview, we posed a lot of questions and she really excelled. She definitely has the qualifications for the position. She’s a natural born leader and you can see that when you get to know her.”

Fehr, Pine Grove, also worked as volunteer coordinator for the Appalachian Coal Country Watershed Team in Colorado and New Mexico and volunteer coordinator for the Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center in Scranton.

Growing up in Pine Grove, Fehr said she knew she wanted to work in the environmental field since participating in the annual Schuylkill County Envirothon as a fourth-grader.

“There’s never a dull moment with what we have going on here because we have such a diverse landscape, from coal lands to farm lands and the county park,” Fehr said. “My love for the environment came from this place. It’s the place I grew up. It’s where my family is and really there is nothing more important to me.”

Fehr said she wants to continue focusing on outreach and education as district manager.

“We have some really active programs here doing great work, so we are trying to make sure people know what the conservation district is and what we are doing here,” Fehr said.

Following the governor’s decision to end the 266-day budget impasse Wednesday, school officials from Schuylkill County expressed relief.

“Mahanoy Area didn’t have to borrow money, but we would have run out of money in late April or early May. We would have had to do something,” Jack J. Hurst, Mahanoy Area’s business administrator, said.

Hurst and Stephen C. Curran, Pottsville Area’s business manager, were among school district officials from across the state who gathered in Harrisburg on Wednesday to take a stand on the matter. They attended a press conference organized by the PA Association of School Business Officials which was held at the Capitol Rotunda on Wednesday morning, an effort to urge Governor Wolf to sign the budget bill to allow schools to remain open and avoid increased costs and financial chaos.

“It was a great experience. I was there just to observe. I did not speak today. But I heard the message from the people who spoke. Schools are in trouble cash-wise and something needed to be done. The stalemate wasn’t affecting the governor or the legislature. It was affecting our children. And that’s what we were there to say. That’s what schools are here for,” Hurst said.

Hurst said in the 2014-15 school year, Mahanoy Area received $7,221,663 in state subsidy. Hurst was not sure Wednesday how much Mahanoy Area would receive for 2015-16, but said in January the district got $3,269,418.

Curran said in the 2014-15 school year, Pottsville Area received $12,976,011 in state subsidy. Curran was not sure Wednesday how much Pottsville Area would receive for 2015-16, but said in January the district got $5,655,732.

“While the governor is allowing the bill to become law, he vetoed the fiscal code bill with all the formulas. So the new money, that additional $150 million in basic education funding, we don’t know how it’s going to be driven out,” Curran said.

Local legislators also expressed their relief Wednesday, following the governor’s announcement.

“School districts, vital agriculture programs, hospitals and counties can breathe a collective sigh of relief with today’s news that the governor will allow the state budget to automatically become law on March 27. Most importantly, this final budget does not increase taxes on Pennsylvanians, which has been the overwhelming concern of residents from Berks and Schuylkill Counties. While there are some loose ends to finalize, including the governor’s veto of reimbursement for school district construction, this is genuine bipartisan cooperation,” state Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, said.

“Today, I am pleased that our governor finally realized that he can’t spend more than what we have. I’m also glad he’s listened to the people of Pennsylvania who have repeatedly said they cannot afford his massive tax increases. The governor could’ve done what he did today last summer and saved a lot of needless suffering within the education, agriculture and correction communities. I am hopeful that he’s learned how the process works, and we will be able to complete the 2016-17 in a reasonable time frame, because this nine-month budget impasse is unacceptable on every level,” state Rep. Jerry Knowles, R-124, said.

“I’m glad the governor has finally become reasonable about the 2015-16 spending plan. The money will now be able to flow to school districts and colleges, including Penn State, as well as important corrections and agriculture line items, all without broad-based tax increases. I continue to be a strong supporter of our education system, as well as our property taxpayers, and the governor’s change of direction today is good for everyone,” state Rep. Mike Tobash, R-125, said.

“The problem we now face is the 2016-17 state budget. We should work together to get that wrapped up as quickly as possible, while understanding that costs continue to increase. Our biggest cost driver continues to be our public pension system” Tobash said.

“The good news is the governor’s action today releases education funding, allowing our schools to complete the school year. But I agree with the governor that this is a bad budget for Pennsylvania,” state Rep. Neal Goodman, D-123, said Wednesday.

“The Republican budget continues to underfund our schools, which, as their budgets have done the past five years, will force local property taxes to go up again. That is what Democrats have been fighting against during the impasse. It also makes a fifth year in a row of unbalanced Republican budgets, essentially ignoring Standard and Poor’s warnings of yet another credit downgrade if we continue down this path. Now that the 2015-16 budget is done, I hope we can do better for 2016-17,” Goodman said.

Republican Party of Pennsylvania Chairman Rob Gleason also released a statement following the announcement Wednesday: “Finally, Tom Wolf has given up playing his nine month long political game. Tom Wolf had publicly said he would veto this latest budget plan, which brought outrage throughout the Commonwealth. Pennsylvanians watched their governor move to shut down their schools and social services because the citizens of the Commonwealth don’t want his massive tax hikes. Gov. Tom Wolf’s budget crisis has resulted in shelters closing, employee layoffs and economic uncertainty for millions of Pennsylvania families. While Tom Wolf will continue to push for higher taxes, Republicans are ready to keep standing up for taxpayers and their families. In the face of the most liberal governor in America, Republicans stood up and fought for fiscal commonsense in Pennsylvania. Because of Republicans, Pennsylvania will not be subjected to the complete draconian cuts to their family budgets that would have occurred under Tom Wolf’s original budget.”

A Pottsville woman is headed to prison after admitting Wednesday in Schuylkill Court that she hindered apprehension of a fugitive and later resisted arrest herself.

Sharon L. Wilson, 44, must serve six to 23 months in prison, Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin ruled.

Dolbin also sentenced Wilson to pay costs and 100 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. He made the sentence effective at 9 a.m. April 15.

Wilson pleaded guilty to hindering apprehension and resisting arrest, with prosecutors withdrawing charges of aggravated assault and disorderly conduct.

Pottsville police filed both charges against Wilson, alleging she hindered apprehension of a fugitive on March 16, 2015, and resisted arrest that same day. Both incidents occurred in the city, police said.

Also on Wednesday, Dolbin accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, these people:

Jazmin Andrews, 20, of Nesquehoning; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 payment to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $50 CJEA payment.

Walter F. Androshick Jr., 46, of Saint Clair; hindering apprehension; 12 months probation and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Brad Bordner, 31, of Bethel; theft; 12 months probation, $50 CJEA payment and $187.05 bench warrant fee.

Amanda K. Borowski, 24, of Pottsville; driving under the influence and improper turning movements; 72 hours to six months in prison, $1,025 in fines, $100 SAEF payment, $50 bench warrant fee, 10 hours community service and mental health/mental retardation evaluation. Prosecutors withdrew charges of driving under suspension, speeding and careless driving.

Melanie D. Delowery, 27, of Mahanoy City; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment and $50 CJEA payment.

William L. Evans, 30, of Pottsville; two counts of receiving stolen property and one of conspiracy; 23 months probation, $50 CJEA payment, $50 bench warrant fee, $4,431.68 restitution and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Beverly A. Gilbert, New Philadelphia; bad checks; 12 months probation, $50 CJEA payment, $50 bench warrant fee and $245 restitution.

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

David J. Rossi

TREMONT — A Tower City man is headed to Schuylkill County Court after waiving his right to a preliminary hearing Thursday on charges he assaulted a woman in February and chased her into a library.

Evan C. Kloss, 19, of 18 S. Eighth St., faces charges of terroristic threats, simple assault and harassment. Magisterial District Judge David J. Rossi bound over all three charges for court after Kloss waived his right to the hearing.

Prosecutors withdrew a second count of simple assault.

State police at Schuylkill Haven alleged Kloss started arguing with a 19-year-old woman on Feb. 11 at his residence. Police said the argument turned physical, with Kloss slapping the woman in her face and arms, punching her in the head and ribs, biting her left arm and throwing her to the ground.

The woman ran to the Tower-Porter Community Library, 230 E. Grand Ave., but Kloss followed her and demanded he leave with her, according to police. Two men tried to get between Kloss and the woman, but he pulled out a knife, police said.

However, one of the men called 911 and Kloss fled the scene, police said.

Kloss is free on $5,000 unsecured bail pending further court action.

Other defendants whose cases Rossi considered on Thursday, the charges against each one and the judge’s dispositions of the matters included:

Robert M. Carnathan, 54, of 17 S. Yohe St., Tower City; recklessly endangering another person; right to preliminary hearing waived, charge bound over for court.

Jason M. Frew, 37, of 4 S. Crescent St., Tremont; retail theft; charge withdrawn.

Worried about the future of the Schuylkill Medical Center, hospital employees asked the Schuylkill County commissioners Wednesday to help them get some answers.

“I’m here because we are concerned and have many questions about our health care system and how it is going forward and what it is going to look like, not only when our new partner takes over, which we welcome 100 percent, but after that,” Brian Symons, cook and chapter president of Service Employees International Union Health of Pennsylvania, said.

Hospital officials announced in November 2014 their intentions to form a business partnership with another regional hospital system. In April 2015, officials announced their plan to integrate its two campuses.

Last September, the Pottsville Hospital Authority reproved a request by Schuylkill Health to borrow up to $20 million in bonds for the project.

“As a community, we need to have a say with how our hospital is going to be shaped in the future,” Symons said. “Our goals are the same as the hospital. We want to provide the best care for our patients and to our community.”

The commissioners then met with Symons and the other employees later that afternoon.

“My response to them was that the board at the hospital are good people,” commissioners Chairman George Halcovage said. “They are some of the top community leaders that we have and I know their goal is to make sure quality health care is provided in the community long term.”

Halcovage, who is also chairman of the Pottsville Hospital Authority, said there is likely confidently involved current negotiations and that the board shares the employees’ goals of ensuring quality care. He compared the hospital’s transition to the county’s sale of Rest Haven last year.

“We had good quality health care there on a long-term basis and we wanted it to be a win/win/win situation and we believe that happened — a win for residents, a win for employees and a win for the community. I want this to be a win/win/win for everyone.”

“The hospital is a very important part of health care in this area,” Commissioner Gary J. Hess said. “Like we said about Rest Haven, it is not just a building or business, it is a living, breathing thing and we need to do what is best for our citizens and health care. We definitely would like to sit down and listen to your concerns and pass them on.”

Commissioner Frank J. Staudenmeier, who is chairman of the Pennsylvania Counties Risk Pool, had a meeting in Pittsburgh and was not at the meeting Wednesday.

In other news, the county will be seeking proposals for banking services.

County Treasurer Linda Marchalk announced the request for proposal Wednesday. She said M&T Bank manages about 70 county bank accounts, averaging about $44 million.

“With the combination of budgetary challenges in the public sector, low market rates and narrowing investment opportunities caused by bank-related regulatory changes, it is necessary to maximize the value of the county’s operating funds for the benefit of taxpayers. I want to thank the commissioners, elected officials and department heads for their cooperation with this endeavor,” Marchalk said.

Marchalk said that she and deputy treasurer Diana Bashinsky have met with banking officials to optimize operating fund structures and eliminate paper processing in favor of electronic options. They have also established a banking cost analysis for the county’s existing accounts to review service charges in earnings regarding earnings credits on the funds.

“As treasurer, I feel the county should always look for opportunities to improve efficiency and lower transaction costs and we are looking to implement the necessary steps to minimize banking costs, improve operational efficiency and maximize investment capabilities,” Marchalk said.

She said the request for proposal will be issued Wednesday.

The county has also applied for a grant to reimburse some of the expenses paid for court interpreters.

District Court Administrator Lois A. Wallauer said the state legislature made $1.5 million available to help counties defray costs. The county’s grant application is seeking 30 reimbursement of 2015 costs, which totaled $20,226.92.

Deeds

Ashland — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Colonial Savings FA; 1514 Centre St.; $1,215.80.

BWH Properties LLC to Efthimios Barias; 1430 Walnut St.; $2,800.

BWH Properties LLC to Stravros Tsagouris; 1428 Walnut St.; $2,800.

Cass Township — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Plaza Home Mortgage Inc.; 174 High Road; $1,110.55.

East Brunswick Township — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to LSF9 Master Participation Trust; 606 Country Hill Road; $1,181.05.

Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to The Bank of New York Mellon; 56 Goose Pond Road; $1,390.62.

Hubley Township — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Federal National Mortgage Association; 2266 E. Main St., Sacramento; $1,192.31.

Minersville — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Deutsche Bank National Trust Co.; 228 Lewis St.; $1,298.19.

Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Bank of America NA; 500 N. Front St.; $1,269.41.

Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to The Bank of New York Mellon; 306 Pine St.; $1,400.57.

Norwegian Township — Dorothy J. Mahalchick, John F. Mahalchick, Michele M. Hummel and Diana M. Leiby to Jason Brennan; 411 Walnut St., Mar Lin; $125,000.

Orwigsburg — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to LSF9 Master Participation Trust; 120 N. Franklin St.; $1,155.99.

Sheila A. and Samuel J. Deibert to KMS Artisans LLC; 219 W. Market St.; $110,000.

Pine Grove Township — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Federal National Mortgage Association; 505 Honeysuckle Court, Swatara Village; $1,364.18.

Pine Grove Mennonite Fellowship to Dunkard Brethren Church Inc.; 97 Pleasant Valley Road; $115,000.

Porter Township — Rick E. Bender and Ricky Bender to Mark H. Kroh; 0.1-acre property on Porter Township; $1.

Mark H. Kroh to Mark H. Kroh; 659 Main St.; $1.

Rick E. Bender and Ricky Bender to Rick E. Bender and Ricky Bender; 0.885-acre property on Main Street; $1.

Pottsville — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to JPMorgan Chase Bank NA; 2145 W. Norwegian St.; $1,115.92.

Marriage licenses

William A. Zubey Jr., Tamaqua, and Henry T. Newhard, Tamaqua.

Police announce

checkpoint results

The North Central PA Regional DUI Enforcement Program reported the results of a Roving DUI Patrol and a Sobriety Checkpoint conducted last week.

Six officers from six departments conducted the Roving DUI Patrol on Friday that resulted in 53 vehicles contacted, 53 detained and four drivers tested for DUI.

There were three DUI arrests and the officers also made 30 traffic arrests, two criminal arrests and issued one seat belt citation and 21 warning notices.

On Saturday a Sobriety Checkpoint was conducted as part of a joint operation between Pennsylvania State Police and municipal officers. A total of 16 officers from five departments participated.

There were 1,286 vehicles contacted, 60 detained and five drivers tested for DUI.

The officers and trooers made four DUI arrests as well as 25 traffic arrests, one criminal arrest and issued 36 warning notices.

Police seeking

wanted woman

DELANO — State police at Frackville are looking for a Conyngham woman.

Police said Tara Ann Lapoint, 23, of Conynham, is wanted for receiving stolen property. Police said Lapoint had a TV from Juvy Christopher, 51, of Barnesville. There is an arrest warrant out for Lapoint’s arrest resulting from an investigation between her and the victim on 1 p.m. March 3.

Those with information are asked to contact state police at Frackville at 570-874-5300.

VALLEY VIEW — One Valley View church is sharing its newest musical acquisition with a public concert slated for May.

Organist Dan Umholtz, Valley View, recently sat down at the custom-designed pipe/digital organ at Trinity Lutheran Church, and explained what makes its sound so rich.

The new organ was installed in November 2015 and it took 60 to 70 hours of “voicing”. Voicing is a meticulous process of adjusting the overall tone quality of the instrument. Walker Technical Co., Zionsville, worked on perfecting the digital aspect while Mark Cooley, of Mark Cooley’s Pipe Organ Service, Orrstown, worked on the pipe end of the project. Crews were on site for nearly three weeks, developing the finished product.

The old instrument was a two-manual, 14-rank pipe organ from the Reuter Organ Company, Lawrence, Kansas, with a name plate dated 1981. The old, two-manual console was lifted out and removed. All of the 832 original pipes — made of tin, lead or wood — are still there and still play. Crews added speakers, amplifiers, a tone generation system and a new three-manual console built by Walker Technical Company.

“It’s increased tonal resources drastically,” Umholtz said.

The upgrade gave new solo voices, as well as new chorus voices. Of those voices, some are capable of speaking at an almost inaudible, higher pitch; and others are so low, that they’re almost inaudible, too, and actually can vibrate the floor when played. The new organ specification has 80 independent ranks, or voices, making it one of the largest instruments within an approximate 50-mile radius, Umholtz said. The new system includes amplifiers that have the potential of 3,500 watts of power. By comparison, an average home sound system may have 100 watts, and an average car sound system, without modification, has about 80 watts, Umholtz estimated.

Umholtz said as technology is being refined, there are more of these sorts of instruments being purchased. A pipe/digital organ may be added, because funds aren’t readily available to add more pipes, or because there’s a size limitation where existing buildings have no more room to physically put additional pipes in place.

Efforts to replace the original pipe organ began in 2013, Umholtz said, after the former organ started to develop electrical problems. People interested in the pipe organ project traveled to a church in Lititz that already had a similar installation.

“When people heard it, they said, we’ve got to have it,” Umholtz said.

A concert will be held 7 p.m. May 7 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1220 W. Maple St., Valley View, giving the public an opportunity to hear the new instrument. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Joining Dan Umholtz will be his father, Jack Umholtz, Valley View, and Kieffer Quandel, Hegins. A free will offering will be accepted at the concert.

Umholtz said the musical selections will include something for everyone to enjoy, “from Bach to Broadway.” The concert is expected to run 1 and 1/2 hours, with a brief intermission.

“Our parishioners are blown away by it,” the Rev. Brian Beissel said of the new system. “At some of our services, they’ve been able to hear some of the special effects. The (antiphonal) trumpet sounds like someone’s coming right up from behind you.”

The church wished not to disclose the price of the new organ, he said.

“Everything we do is about praising God, and this organ has increased our ability to do that, and we have wonderful musicians,” Beissel said.

In addition to Dan Umholtz, other organists include Phyllis Klouser and Sherry McDonald, Beissel said.

Dan Umholtz, 25, graduated as an organ major from Messiah College in May 2015. He’s served as a house organist for Hershey Theatre, and as a substitute organist on the Wanamaker Grand Court Organ in Philadelphia, along with many other venues. The Wanamaker is the largest playing pipe organ in the world.

Dan Umholtz is also slated to perform at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 312 S. Tulpehocken St., Pine Grove, to celebrate that organ’s 80th anniversary and the church’s bicentennial.

DETURKSVILLE — Washington Township supervisors are seeking to build a municipal office building.

A proposed building, if built, will be located near the current garage at 225 Frantz Road, Pine Grove, where meetings are now held, Dawn Koch, secretary/treasurer for the township, said Thursday.

“We don’t have a building. We meet out of a garage,” she said.

The proposed building is slated to be built on township-owned land. Koch said the supervisors will finance the purchase of the building and have set aside some money in the 2016 budget for the expense, though she did not say how much money the supervisors have allocated thus far.

Supervisors Leon Lutz and Wendell Gainer Jr. did not return a call for comment. Supervisor Lynn Brown could not be reached for comment.

Ryan Fasnacht, the township engineer with Alfred Benesch & Co., Pottsville, said plans for the building include a meeting room, reception area, two offices, bathrooms, utility room and small lunchroom. He said total cost for the project is estimated at $360,000 to $400,000.

Gordon Todd, of Gordon Todd Associates,Lansdale, an architect firm, did the drawings for a proposed 40-by-50-foot building.

“It’s primarily a metal building,” which he said will have stucco on the outside, he said.

A legal ad in The Republican-Herald said interested bidders have until 4 p.m. April 13 to submit bids online at www.PennBid.net. Bids will be announced 7 p.m. April 18 during the regularly scheduled monthly supervisors meeting. Results are also available online at www.ebidexchange.com after the meeting. A pre-bid meeting is scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday at the garage.

The ad said the project includes the construction of a new office building including electrical, plumbing and HVAC work. Additional information is provided in the contract specifications. Contracts will be awarded in each of the four areas.

The specifications for the general contract list an expected amount of $280,000 to $300,00 for the building and an additional amount for the plumbing and HVAC at $15,000 to $20,000 each and the electrical work at $50,000 to $60,000, according to www.PennBid.net.

HAZLETON — Two people are dead in Dorrance Township, though few details are available at this time as the investigation into the circumstances is ongoing.

State police at Hazleton led authorities from multiple jurisdictions in what, at the time, appeared to be a standoff with an armed gunman for several hours Wednesday. When police finally gained entry into the home, located along Alberdeen Road and near the Wright Township line, they found a different situation.

“Upon entering, troopers found two deceased individuals in the residence,” Trooper 1st Class David Peters said. “We’re waiting for more information to become available.”

Wednesday evening, police and other emergency vehicles responded to the home on Alberdeen Road.

“Approximately 1810 hours (6:10 p.m.), troopers from the state police barracks in Hazleton were dispatched for an unresponsive individual,” Peters said. “EMS on the scene heard a gunshot come from the residence and troopers treated the situation as a barricaded gunman. They tried but couldn’t establish contact.”

Some neighbors standing near one of the police road blocks stated they did not hear any gun shots, but conceded that the landscape does not allow for sounds to travel uniformly. They said highway noise from Interstate 81 sometimes overtakes closer sounds because of the area’s terrain. Some neighbors clearly heard police trying to make contact with those in the house, while others did not.

A special tactical unit arrived at the scene after 9 p.m. Just before 11 p.m., two loud bangs could be heard from the area of the home. Soon after, word began to trickle to the outer perimeter set up by authorities that the incident was reaching its conclusion.

Alberdeen Road was shut down to traffic at Washington Park Drive in Wright Township and at a location west of the scene. Morio Drive was also closed near Alberdeen Road. All of the closures were in place for approximately six hours. Residents were allowed back to their homes at 12:30 a.m. Thursday as Alberdeen Road reopened to traffic.

Wright Township fire police directed traffic at the scene.

MAHANOY PLANE — The Gilberton Borough Council agreed to look into having inmates from the county work release program to clean up in the borough.

Sprucing up along the streets in the borough was discussed by the council during Tuesday’s meeting, and while borough streets employees have begun the work, getting some extra help through the Schuylkill County Prison was part of the conversation.

Councilman Mark Keirsey raised the subject of the need for a cleanup because of debris along roadways.

“I was wondering if the council would consider having an annual cleanup day in the borough and pick areas that need to be cleaned up,” Keirsey said. “A day we would provide the bags and other supplies. I don’t know if you’ve noticed the on-ramps and off-ramps (of state Route 924). The northbound one that I had cleaned is absolutely filthy, and along the southbound ramp somebody dumped a rug. Right in that big area there are rugs and tires on the side.”

“We’ve been doing this for years,” council President Daniel Malloy said, explaining that the borough has picked up trash and litter with borough employees and volunteers. “And the ramps were the areas we hit because the ramps are the worst.”

Council Vice President Michael VanAllen noticed piles of dirt in different areas, with Malloy explaining the borough employees have been doing some cleanup work.

“And that’s another point I wanted to make to commend the borough workers who did that,” Keirsey said. “Just what they have done so far has been a significant improvement. It makes a difference.”

Keirsey spoke of the cleanup effort in 2014 by the Mahanoy Creek Watershed Association with about a dozen members and volunteers along the creek shores in Mahanoy Plane and Maizeville. He said the volunteer effort removed much debris from the creek area and shows what can be done.

“Why can’t we get the prisoners to come here and cleanup?” Councilman Lloyd George asked.

“That’s a good question,” Keirsey said.

VanAllen, who works at the county courthouse, will check into that option.

“When I go to work tomorrow, I will find out all the details,” VanAllen said.

While cleaning the litter and garbage is important, Malloy said a major focus is the clearing of storm drain inlets.

“The major thing is the storm drains,” Malloy said. “All they have to do is lift is grate, clean out the drain and put the grate back. They did it before for us. I have received complaints of storm drains being blocked. They need to be cleaned out. Maybe not all of them, but they all should be checked.”

In other business, the borough council approved the purchase of a new chlorine analyzer for the sewage treatment plant.

“As we brought up before, our chlorine analyzer needs to be replaced. We need a motion to purchase a new one with the understanding we keep the old one to see if we can have it repaired,” Malloy said.

“If we can have the old one repaired and calibrated, we can have a backup.” VanAllen said.

In the treatment of raw sewage, chlorine gas is a common disinfectant in the process. The analyzer measures the amount of chlorine in the water that will be discharged must not exceed a permitted limit. If higher than allowed, the treated wastewater must be dechlorinated before it can leave the plant.

Malloy said after the meeting that the current analyzer is original equipment when the treatment plant began operating in 2002. The cost for a replacement is about $450.

VanAllen said this year’s Memorial Day program will be held on May 30 at the Veterans Memorial in Maizeville. The details will be announced at a later date. The borough holds Memorial Day programs at one of the three memorials on a rotating basis. The other memorials are in the Mahanoy Plane and Gilberton sections of the borough.

James K. Reiley

An Auburn man charged by Pottsville police with an assault at the Ramada Hotel, 101 S. Progress Ave., on March 6 waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley, Pottsville.

Michael Santana, 33, of 736 Cheyenne Drive, was arrested by Pottsville police Cpl. Charles Webber and charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, resisting arrest, recklessly endangering another person, unlawful restraint, disorderly conduct, public drunkenness and disarming a law enforcement officer.

By waiving his right to a hearing, Santana will now have to answer to all eight charges against him in Schuylkill County Court.

Officers were called to the business about 11:25 a.m. for a report of a man physically restraining a housekeeper at the front desk inside the building and found Santana with his hands wrapped around a visibly shaken female employee.

Santana refused commands by officers, became violent and tried to take an officer’s Taser weapon from its holster, Webber said.

The corporal said that as officers tried to remove Santana from the building, he continued his extremely violent and combative behavior while informing officers he had taken PCP or Phencyclidine.

Other court cases included:

Brittany Ann Marks, 23, of 53 N. Railroad St., Frackville; waived for court: statutory sexual assault, corruption of minors, indecent assault of a person under the age of 16 and aggravated indecent assault of a person under the age of 16.

Edwin Montero-Cartagena, 24, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville; withdrawn: aggravated assault. Waived for court: simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and harassment.

Joanna Lynn O’Day, 34, of 219 N. Centre St., Apt. 2B, Pottsville; waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia and false identification to law enforcement.

Jose O. Gonzalez, 35, of 33 W. Main St., Quakake; waived for court: DUI-controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked and turning movements and required signals.

Justin M. Koons, 26, of 16 Kate Ave., Schuylkill Haven; waived for court: aggravated assault, simple assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Samuel E. Pullins, 50, of 406 W. Race St., Pottsville; waived for court: criminal trespass.

Lyle McCulley, 36, of 393 Hotel St., Pottsville; waived for court: simple assault.

Misty M. Moseley, 40, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville; waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.

George H. Brand, 35, of 731 N. 2nd St., Pottsville; waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and tampering with or fabricating physical evidence.

Pedro L. Carmenate Jr., 23, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville; waived for court: aggravated indecent assault of a person under the age of 16, corruption of minors and indecent assault of a person under the age of 16.

Jose F. Cabrera Jr., 24, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville; held for court: criminal trespass, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, public drunkenness and harassment.

Frank Fisher, 42, of 44 S. Tulpehocken St., Apt. 2, Pine Grove; waived for court: simple assault and harassment.

Quinn C. Reaves, 29, of 305 W. Race St., Pottsville; waived for court: burglary, criminal trespass, theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property.

Rashad Santiago, 27, of 538 N. Centre St., Apt. 5, Pottsville; held for court: possession of a controlled substance.

Justin M. Mosolino, 29, of 713 W. Market St., Pottsville; waived for court: theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property.

William G. Manness, 34, of 401 Boone St., Apt. 3, Pottsville; waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mark C. Trautman, 33, of 154 W. 2nd Mountain Road, Pottsville; waived for court: DUI, DUI-highest rate and failure to stop at a red signal.

Gianfranco C. Dovidio, 27, of 324 Young St., Pottsville; held for court: false identification to law enforcement, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without a license and failure to stop at a red signal.

Sarah E. Simatos, 23, of 905 Pottsville St., Pottsville; waived for court: DUI, DUI-high rate, careless driving and period for requiring lighted lamps.

Melissa A. Rossin, 41, of 315 Bobb Alley, Cumbola; dismissed: theft and receiving stolen property.

James A. Nelson, 32, of 713 Harrison St., Pottsville; held for court: possession of a controlled substance.

Michael C. Reber, 29, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville; waived for court: possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of a controlled substance.

Bradley C. McKeone, 24, of 419 Adams St., Pottsville; waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia

Robert D. Steffie Jr., 45, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville; waived for court: theft y unlawful taking, receiving stolen property and retail theft.

Charles R. Anderson, 31, of 214 Harrison St., Pottsville; waived for court: photographing, filming or depicting sex acts on a computer, corruption of minors and invasion of privacy.

NEW PHILADELPHIA — Dorothy Thorne said she hadn’t been feeling well for a few days when she came home from work on March 9. She thought it was just the flu, but it was actually a mini stroke.

Had her 12-year-old son not immediately called the Schuylkill County Communications Center and calmly describe the symptoms to emergency responders, Dorothy may not have been able to dribble the basketball with her son on Thursday.

“I’m so proud of him,” she said. “He stayed calm and kept his composure and did what he was supposed to do. I don’t know what would have happened if he wasn’t there.”

Her son, Damian, a sixth-grader at Saint Clair Area Elementary School, said he was able to stay calm because he knew what to do.

“I used to take him to the fire companies and taught him CPR and the Heimlich,” Mark, his father and a firefighter, said. “He might be a firefighter when he’s older.”

He was not home at the time.

Damian said he recognized some of the symptoms: slurred speech, dizziness, confusion, weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg and headache.

“I called 911 and sat in the ambulance,” he said.

He then called his grandmother to tell her what had occurred.

About 9:30 p.m., the ambulance took Dorothy to Schuylkill Medical Center-East Norwegian Street, Pottsville. She was later transferred to St. Luke’s Hospital-Miners Campus, Coaldale, where she stayed until March 11.

Dorothy said the doctors found a blood clot in the left side of her neck. She is still taking medication to clear the clot.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or severely reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients, according to the Mayo Clinic. Prompt treatment is crucial and early action can minimize brain damage and potential complications.

“Timing is the most important part and I attribute that to Damian,” Dorothy said.

On her right shoulder, Dorothy has a tattoo called “Eyes of the Protector” with the names of her husband and son written above the eyes.

“That’s fitting for this situation,” she said.

People should seek immediate medical attention if they notice any signs or symptoms of a stroke, even if they seem to fluctuate or disappear, according to the Mayo Clinic.

“FAST” is the acronym commonly used to remember how to detect and respond to stroke victim needs. It stands for:

• Face. Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

• Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Or is one arm unable to raise up?

• Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is his or her speech slurred or strange?

• Time. If you observe any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

When it comes to educating children how to call 911, Verizon Wireless has a guide on its website at www.verizonwireless.com/support/teach-kids-how-to-dial-911. It includes the following instructions:

• Make sure your child can say her first and last name and provide her address or location

• Explain the different emergency situations that might require your child to call 911

• Show your child the steps for calling 911 on your mobile phone

• Go over your mobile phone’s keypad several times to help your child become familiar with making a call

• Practice, practice, practice

• Do not let your children play with old mobile phones

Eddie Money has two tickets to paradise — Northeast Pennsylvania.

The singer-songwriter, who rose to fame in the 1970s and ’80s with a string of Top 40 hits, comes to the area Thursday for Rock 107’s 36th Birthday Bash at The Woodlands Inn & Resort, Route 315, Plains Township.

The singer referred to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area as “Eddie Money country,” due to the warm welcome he receives from fans whenever he comes to town to perform his large catalog of hits, among them “Take Me Home Tonight,” “Two Tickets to Paradise,” “Shakin’ ” and “I Wanna Go Back.”

Money also is impressed by the region’s musical talent.

“You can go to a little bar in Scranton or Wilkes-Barre at 11:30 at night and hear great musicians,” Money said. “There’s a lot of good music going on. It’s really cool, man.”

Doors open at 7 p.m. for the Times-Shamrock Communications radio station’s event, with local opening acts Flaxy Morgan, the Bounty Hunter Gang, Facing the Giants and AC/DC tribute band Halfway to Hell kicking off the night. Tickets are free in advance, and $15 the day of the show. For more information, visit www.rock107.com.

Money, who headlined the Birthday Bash in 2008, is grateful for the fans who have been with him since his early days in music.

Many of these fans hadn’t been to a show since the ’80s or ’90s because they were raising their families, he said. He’s happy to put on a show today for fans and their kids, many of whom are influenced by their parents’ taste in music.

Money (real name Edward Mahoney) brings his own children on tour. Two of his five children, son Julian and daughter Jessica (known as “Jesse Money”), accompany their dad on drums and guitar and vocals, respectively.

“The band sounds good,” Money said. “Critics have been raving about the show.”

Performing and hanging out with fans is what Money loves most. With his songs still frequently played on the radio, it’s hard to find someone who hasn’t heard an Eddie Money tune.

Monday marked Money’s 66th birthday, and the sing-songwriter said he was a huge trending topic online.

“I’ve been blessed with a lot of hits,” Money said. “The guy upstairs has been good to me.”

A Montgomery County man will not have to serve time in prison after being sentenced March 17 in Schuylkill County Court on two charges stemming from an incident in August 2014 in Pottsville.

Instead, Dyon S.M. Thompson, 22, of Norristown, will spend 24 months on probation and pay costs and $1,025.15 restitution under the terms of President Judge William E. Baldwin’s sentence.

“I expect you to make these payments,” Baldwin warned Thompson.

Thompson pleaded guilty on Jan. 28 to criminal mischief and attempted theft, with prosecutors withdrawing charges of burglary and criminal trespass.

Pottsville police had charged Thompson with damaging a house on Aug. 13, 2014.

“This whole circumstance here is suspicious to say the least,” said Baldwin.

In another March 17 case, Baldwin revoked the parole of Joseph R. Driscoll, 39, of Clifton Heights, and ordered him returned to prison. Driscoll must remain behind bars until May 2 before he can apply for reparole, Baldwin ruled.

Driscoll originally pleaded guilty on Jan. 24, 2014, to false identification to law enforcement, conspiracy and theft. At that time, Baldwin sentenced him to serve six to 23 months in prison and pay costs, $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and $1,999.52 restitution.

State police at Schuylkill Haven charged Driscoll with committing his crimes n March 14, 2013.

Baldwin revoked Driscoll’s parole after the defendant admitted violating it by committing new crimes.

In more criminal court action, a Pottsville woman is headed to state prison after being sentenced March 18 in Schuylkill County Court on two sets of charges.

Tori R. Wilson, 31, will spend one to three years in a state correctional institution, plus an additional 12 months on probation, and undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation under the terms of Judge Jacqueline L. Russell’s sentence.

“She has a drug problem that has not been successfully addressed,” Russell said of Wilson.

Russell imposed the sentence after removing Wilson from the intermediate punishment program. Wilson admitted violating the terms of that program by not making payments on her costs and fees, leaving her substance abuse treatment program and failing a drug test.

Wilson originally pleaded guilty on Oct. 15, 2014, to identity theft, theft by deception and possession of drug paraphernalia in one case and criminal trespass in a second. Russell accepted the plea, placed Wilson in the intermediate punishment program for two years on probation for an additional year, and also sentenced her to pay costs, a $750 fine and $100 to the CJEA, all of which she still must pay under the terms of the sentence, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

She had asked Russell to sentence her to the county prison, saying she wanted to rebuild her relationship with her son and pay her costs and fines.

“I have a strong work ethic,” Wilson said.

New Philadelphia police charged Wilson with trespassing on Oct. 11, 2013, in the borough, while Rush Township police charged her with committing the other crimes on Nov. 4, 2013, in the township.

Also on March 18, Russell revoked the probation of Michael A. Kanger, 41, of Pottsville, but sentenced him to time served to 18 months in prison with immediate parole.

Kanger originally pleaded guilty on Nov. 24, 2010, to retail theft and public drunkenness. At that time, Russell sentenced him to 23 months probation consecutive to his existing sentence, pay costs, a $50 fine, a $50 CJEA payment and $77.41 restitution, all of which the defendant still must pay under the terms of the sentence, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Saint Clair police charged Kanger with committing the theft and being intoxicated on Jan. 23, 2010, in the borough.

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

Cody A. Bedford, 24, of Pottsville; driving under the influence; 15 days house arrest with electronic monitoring, 45 days strict supervision, 58 months probation; $2,000 fine, $100 payment to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $460 restitution Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street and 100 hours community service. Prosecutors withdrew charges of disregarding traffic lane and careless driving.

Aaliyah B. Berrios, 20, of Lebanon; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment and $50 payment to the CJEA.

William J. Crespo, 22, of Mount Carmel; possession of drug paraphernalia; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment and $50 CJEA payment.

Lisa M. Dagostino, 50, of Pine Grove; eight counts of theft and one of access device fraud; 12 months probation, $50 CJEA payment, $176 restitution, 10 hours community service and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew eight counts each of forgery and receiving stolen property.

Russell K. Dissinger, 32, of Pine Grove; false statement under penalty; time served to 12 months in prison with immediate parole, $50 CJEA payment and $50 bench warrant fee. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of materially false written statement.

Angela M. Fetterolf, 21, of Hegins; simple assault; time served to 12 months in prison with immediate parole and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of harassment.

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

TOWER CITY — Williams Valley Elementary Principal Stephanie Carl on Thursday submitted details to the school board of a summer program available this July.

The board unanimously approved the reading and math program designed for students in kindergarten through fourth grade. All nine board directors were present.

The theme will be “Ready, Set, Read!” This year, it will be a co-curricular program, Carl said, incorporating math and reading within the theme. Math skills will be intertwined with reading skills to provide a well-rounded review for students, according to Carl.

The summer program will be three days each week, running Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, on July 5 though 21. Teachers will have a four hour prep during the week of June 27.

Teachers will be there from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with a half hour of prep time added in. Students will attend from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Teachers scheduled to operate the summer program are: Kristina Reho, Andrea Wenger, Melissa Faust, Jennifer Matz, Sherri Meiser, Sandy Kreiser, Heather Haupt, Kelly Malloy, Carla Wynn and Kristin Baker. Edith Tanner will serve as a teacher substitute.

Carl’s report showed there was $15,000 in Title I funds available. Costs would include teacher salaries at $1,125 per teacher — $25 an hour for 45 hours; with 10 teachers at $1,125, equaling $11, 50. Book costs, snacks, supplies and prizes were not to exceed $500.

The board also heard an end-of-season report from Girls’ Basketball Coach Charles “Chuck” Rodichok. In his first year of coaching the girls’ squad, Rodichok said Williams Valley posted a 17-7 record and had a good run in districts. Two athletes scored 1,000 points, and there were five graduating seniors. Rodichok said there is continued interest in girls’ basketball at the junior-high level and some athletes are playing in AAU ball. “I’m excited for next year,” Rodichok said, thanking the board and Athletic Director Randy Russelavage for allowing him to serve as a coach this season.

“Chuck did an outstanding job his first year,” Russelavage said. He said parents and players reported they enjoyed the season.

School Board President Daniel Stroup announced a negotiation meeting would be held at 7 p.m. April 13 in regard to the teacher contract.

Under personnel matters, the board approved:

• A four-day summer work week beginning June 6 and ending August 19 for 12-month employees. Employees will work ten-hour days, Mondays through Thursdays, and buildings will be closed on Fridays.

• Adding Christina Harner, Harrisburg, to the event staff list for the 2015-16 school year.

• Appointing Business Manager Anthony Aukstakalnis as the Right-to-Know Officer for the Williams Valley School District, effective May 1.

• Hiring of the following coaches for the 2016-17 school year with salaries as per the Collective Bargaining Agreement: head boys’ basketball coach Dennis Kasper Sr., Williamstown, and assistant boys’ basketball coach Joseph Dagostino, Williamstown.

The board approved the following rental requests for use of the high school cafeteria — renters wish to have rental/custodial fees waived:

• A request from the Tower City-Porter Rotary Club to use the high school cafeteria and restrooms from 6 to 11 p.m. April 15 for the Les Brown Dance. Proof of insurance was submitted with the rental form. The Rotary is willing to pay for security personnel that the district supplies for the event.

• A request from the Williams Valley Archery Boosters to use the facility from 7 to 8:30 p.m. April 13 for the final 2015-16 archery booster meeting

• A request from the Williams Valley Girls Softball Boosters to use the facility from 2:30. to 4 p.m. Thursday to sort a fundraiser

• A request from the Post Prom Parent Committee Organization to use the facility from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday for a planning meeting

• A request from the Tower City-Porter Rotary Club to use the facility from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 22 for a Sports Awards Banquet. Proof of insurance was submitted.

• A request from Stars Tumbling to use the high school gymnasium from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. June 4 for a tumbling performance for family and friends. Proof of insurance was submitted.

The school board also voted in favor of the following:

• Recognizing the Williams Valley Post Prom Parent Committee as a Booster Association for the 2015-16 school year

• An extended school year, starting July 11 and ending August 4. The classes will be held Monday through Thursday with staff hours from 8:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and student hours from 8:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. There will be three teachers paid at $25 per hour; and four paraprofessionals paid at $9 per hour. Superintendent Donald Burkhardt explained this program has run for several years and addresses students’ individualized education programs.

• Accepting a donation of a sound system for the softball field as donated by the Williams Valley Girls Softball Boosters

• The proposed Schuylkill IU 29 general operating budget for the 2016-17 school year

• The approval and disapproval of adjustments to the Delinquent Personal Tax List for Statewide Tax Recovery Inc. as submitted.

Several board members also commended the district students and staff in the recent musical production of “High School Musical.”

The next regularly scheduled public board meeting will be 7:30 p.m. April 14 in the board room of the high school.

Robert D. Schappell again admitted Thursday in Schuylkill County Court that he defrauded a Schuylkill Haven automobile dealer of more than $200,000 by taking money for cars he never delivered.

Schappell, 44, of Schuylkill Haven, pleaded guilty to 21 counts of theft by deception, with prosecutors withdrawing 21 counts each of theft and receiving stolen property, while pleading guilty in another case to a bad check charge. Prosecutors withdrew 21 counts of receiving stolen property.

President Judge William E. Baldwin accepted the plea, ordered preparation of a presentence investigation and said he would schedule sentencing at a later date.

Schuylkill Haven borough police charged Schappell, formerly of Deer Lake and Pottsville, with taking $202,500 from Bruce Stidham, owner of Bruce’s Auto Mall in the borough, in exchange for Corvettes and other vehicles. Schappell neither provided Stidham with any vehicles, nor did he refund any money to him, police said.

In the other case, state police at Schuylkill Haven charged him with bad checks, alleging he passed a bad check on Nov. 1, 2013.

Schappell’s plea is the third one he has entered in the case.

He pleaded no contest before Baldwin on Oct. 17, 2014. By pleading no contest, Schappell did not admit committing the crimes but offered no defense to them, agreed that prosecutors had sufficient evidence to prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt of all charges and agreed to be sentenced as if he had pleaded or been found guilty.

However, Schappell withdrew that plea on Dec. 15, 2014.

Then, on March 18, 2015, he pleaded guilty before Judge Jacqueline L. Russell. However, he withdrew that plea on June 22, 2015.

Schappell said little during Thursday’s hearing except that he understood his plea and was entering it knowingly and voluntarily.

The defendant

Name: Robert D. Schappell

Age: 44

Residence: Schuylkill Haven

Crimes committed: 21 counts each of theft and receiving stolen property, one of bad checks

Marriage licenses

Bryan N. Jefferson, Schuylkill Haven, and Amanda A. Lisoski, Schuylkill Haven.

Bryan Shustack, Frackville, and Judith McCauley, Frackville.