RINGTOWN — Design work will begin for a drainage project to correct problems on East Main Street in the borough.

The Ringtown Borough Council authorized Alfred Benesch & Co., the borough’s consulting engineer, to begin the engineering design at Monday’s meeting.

“At last month’s meeting, we discussed doing the stormwater improvements over at East Main Street,” Benesch project manager Jacqueline Peleschak said. “I have a proposal for engineering design and contract administration.”

The proposal was for $7,800 for design and administration, and another $2,600 for construction administration.

“If we get the go-ahead, we’ll do a survey in one day and that will allow us to do a design,” Peleschak said.

The project will replace 150 feet of stormwater pipe, four inlets, improvements to driveways and restoration of the trench, not curb-to-curb. According to council President Julian Milewski at a previous meeting, several storm drains are collapsing and there is also inadequate drainage in the area. The existing drains will be brought up to standards and some additional drains will be put in to mitigate the problem.

“We estimate (the project) at about $80,000,” Peleschak said.

The borough council approved to have Benesch design the project and put it out for bids.

In other business, borough foreman Scott Schuetrum said new chlorination equipment has been received for the borough-operated water-distribution system.

“We’re switching it out piece by piece and should have it done by the end of the week, I would think,” Schuetrum said.

Schuetrum and Peleschak met with David Narducci of the Misty Springs Horse Farm about plans for a driveway/road on his property. In April, Narducci questioned the decision of the borough engineer that since the area has had drainage issues in the past, he was required to apply for a permit and list exactly how he intends to put the road in while ensuring that the drainage will not be an issue.

“Jacquie and I met with Dave Narducci in a quick meeting before we did anything with his permit,” Schuetrum said. “We looked at it and he was agreeable to the changes dealing with our concerns with the guide rail and the ditch. It will still be in the same general vicinity, just shifted about 16 feet. The permit has been issued.”

Schuetrum also spoke about a stormwater drainage problem on Oak Street near Apple Street. Peleschak will review the situation, particularly whether the borough is responsible for the drainage problem.

Pothole repair and patching has begun, Schuetrum said, though rainy days prevented some work. He said the pothole repair will resume this week, weather permitting, after which crack sealing will be done.

A water pump is in need of replacement, Schuetrum said, with the cost of replacement at $1,200.

“We are required by DEP to have two pumps so that if one breaks, the other one is there to take over,” Schuetrum said to the council. “Both pumps are used so they both get the same amount of wear.”

“It’s a maintenance item so just order the pump,” Milewski, a Republican-Herald employee, told Schuetrum.

Milewski reported the street sweeper was in the borough and worked eight hours cleaning Main and Centre streets and a few side streets. At the April meeting, the borough council authorized the street sweeper at a cost not to exceed $1,000.

“We had a fairly light winter and we opted to sweep the main streets. Two people mentioned to me about not doing the side streets,” Milewski said.

Councilman James Compton Sr. asked about previous years when the sweeping was done on the side streets. Arthur “Pat” Aungst Inc., Pine Grove, was contracted this year and has been cleaning the borough streets for years.

Milewski said that due to the need to clean the side streets in previous year, the borough paid for an extra day for the sweeping. Schuetrum said in the previous year the cost was $2,100 for 17 hours. This year the limit was $1,000.

“He was actually here a little more than eight hours,” Schuetrum said. “He got done what he could get done. He was able to get all the side streets done on the east end.”

Mayor Albert Breznik Jr. said anyone who wants to sweep their curbs on their own, they should contact the borough office for a borough truck to pick up the dirt.

The borough council approved the renewal of the contract for electricity through the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce Energy Program in conjunction with ChamberChoice and its consultant, OnDemand Energy Solutions. Before the vote, Milewski said that compared to Pennsylvania Electric Utilities Inc. rates, the borough has saved $13,000 since March 2014.

The borough council entered executive session to discuss personnel matters, and upon returning to the open meeting, took no actions and adjourned.

The Schuylkill County Prison cannot accept sentenced criminals until its average monthly population drops below 277.

The state Department of Corrections ordered on May 4 that the facility is ineligible to take any additional prisoners sentenced between six months to five years until further notice.

The DOC order said the county has failed to comply with an agreement approved last year that the inmate population would not exceed its approved capacity of 277. The agreement, approved July 28, 2015, was designed to reduce triple celling at the facility. Triple celling refers to three inmates being housed in a cell meant for one or two.

The county was given until Nov. 24, 2015, to reduce its inmate population or risk not being allowed to house additional prisoners. The facility had 302 inmates that day, according to the DOC’s order.

Commissioners Chairman George F. Halcovage Jr., who also serves as prison board chairman, said he thought the county was in compliance with the agreement, but the state DOC wants the monthly average inmate population to be below 277.

However, the monthly average was not explicitly stated in the agreement. It states: “On or before Nov. 24, 2015, the county respondents shall ensure that the county prison’s inmate population does not exceed its approved capacity of 277. Thereafter, the respondents shall ensure that the county prison’s inmate population does not exceed its approved capacity, except on a temporary basis that does not exceed 30 days.”

Halcovage said that was interpreted as the county having 30 days to get the population back below 277. The monthly average was 294 in February and 291 in March. The prison had 309 inmates Tuesday.

The DOC will review its decision in three months, Halcovage said.

“Despite the county’s diligent efforts to reach the benchmark set by the PA Department of Corrections, the continued swelling numbers of inmates in Schuylkill County has prevented it from attaining that benchmark,” Halcovage said in a press release issued Tuesday. “The Schuylkill County prison board and board of commissioners are committed to continuing to work with the Department of Corrections, the Schuylkill County court as well as county law enforcement professionals to ensure that all inmate housing requirements are met and those individuals adjudicated by the court requiring incarceration will be incarcerated.”

The county is already housing more than 30 inmates at the George W. Hill Correctional Facility, Thornton, and State Correctional Institution/Muncy since March. Halcovage said the prison board is also finalizing an agreement to house more inmates at the Centre County Correctional Facility, Bellefonte, and discussions have started with Columbia County Prison, Bloomsburg.

Halcovage said the George W. Hill Correctional Facility can potentially take about 25 more men while Centre County can take about 20 men and 10 women, and Columbia County can take about 20 men.

“There are not many places willing to take on female population,” Halcovage said.

The cost to house inmates at those prisons is $60 a day per inmate. Although that cost is less than the state average of $65, it is only $45 a day per inmate at the Schuylkill County Prison, according to the DOC. Halcovage said Columbia County is also asking for $60 a day per inmate.

The prison can still take individuals who are awaiting sentencing, Halcovage said.

Halcovage said the prison board is continuing to look into other options, including an intermediate placement facility and additional alternative sentencing programs.

“The rate of crime is not going down and we are working together to get these alternatives,” Halcovage said. “Our goal is to come together with the different parties involved and work on the plan together to get the number where it needs to be.”

PRIMROSE — Twin sisters from Tri-Valley were among the more than 70 students recognized Tuesday at the 33rd annual Academic Achievement Awards.

Doreen Milot, supervisor of English as a second language and district support consultant with Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29, welcomed scholars, their families, administrators and educators to the breakfast celebration at St. Nicholas Hall, Primrose.

Milot said she realized the students probably had pages full of accomplishments that could be recognized, but due to time constraints, students were asked to only list their top two accomplishments. Six students each from 12 county school districts were honored as 2016 Schuylkill Scholars. Superintendents, principals or deans of students presented scholars with certificates and medals as they read each student’s accolades and future plans.

Tri-Valley seniors Amanda and Brianne Pacenta will be following similar paths upon graduation. Both will attend King’s College, studying in the accelerated, five-year physician’s assistants program.

“We were both involved with a therapeutic horseback riding program, and job shadowed a physician’s assistant and we both wanted to help people,” Brianne, 17, said.

Amanda said she had looked at attending Lock Haven, but then when her sister discovered King’s had an accelerated program of study, she also decided to apply there. They are the daughters of Arlene and Thomas Pacenta, Ashland.

Brianne appreciated the honors ceremony.

“I thought it was really nice, seeing all the different people and hearing their majors. When you play sports, you see some familiar faces, and now we get to see what they’ll be doing (after graduation),” Brianne, a Bulldog soccer and basketball player, said.

“I enjoy this,” Tri-Valley Superintendent Mark D. Snyder said. “Every district gets to send some of their best students to be recognized throughout the county.”

Karen and Mark Peiffer attended the ceremony in support of their daughter, Angela Peiffer, a Pine Grove senior.

“It was wonderful that they acknowledged these students for their hard work. My daughter’s third in her class, so this was not only for the valedictorian and salutatorian, but for others,” Karen said. “I know how hard she works. I can see the amount of time she puts in, as I’m sure these other students do,” she said.

Her daughter plans to attend Bloomsburg University but is undecided on her major.

The Peiffers shared a table with the families of some of the fellow Pine Grove High School honorees, Geoffrey Kaufman and Lindsey Zimmerman. Other Pine Grove students recognized were Elisa Seip, Xinhe Julia Zhu and Delaney Hunter. Pine Grove Dean of Students Ken Gibson read students’ accomplishments, as high school Principal Michael Janicelli presented scholars with their medallions and certificates.

Many county scholars recognized will pursue careers in the medical field, engineering, accounting, education, economics and finance. Some will seek degrees at higher institutions like Penn State, Baylor, Colgate, Baldwin Wallace, Muhlenburg, Lebanon Valley, Syracuse, St. Joseph’s, Villanova, Albright, Lock Haven, Temple and Rochester Institute of Technology.

Several will serve in the military.

Thirteen students in five school districts recognized Tuesday will be attending Pennsylvania State University’s Schuylkill campus, according to Janelle Gruber, director of enrollment services at Penn State Schuylkill. They will receive $500 matching scholarships.

Those attending Penn State Schuylkill are Katlyn Halford, Sara Hixson, Alexis Luna, Grant Schadle, Janelle Taylor and Joshua White, all of Shenandoah Valley; David Chesakis, Schuylkill Haven Area; Emily Kimmel and Kelly Romberger, Tri-Valley; and Jenny Keim, Morgan Matter and Alyssa Schadle, Williams Valley; and Delaney Hunter, Pine Grove Area.

Schools participating in the awards event included Blue Mountain, Mahanoy Area, Minersville, Nativity BVM, North Schuylkill, Pine Grove, Pottsville, Schuylkill Haven, Shenandoah Valley, Tamaqua, Tri-Valley and Williams Valley.

Williams Valley High School Principal Tracey Weller commended the scholars, noting “they do outstanding work, day in, day out.”

Special thanks was offered to IU-29; district administrators and teachers; Gruber; Aimee Hull, a Tamaqua soloist; and the Pine Grove Area JROTC cadets. Milot also thanked Theresa Kozura, IU-29 special program assistant, curriculum services, for coordinating the day’s festivities.

In recent Schuylkill County Court action, Judge Jacqueline L. Russell accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, these people:

Ozzy Apgar, 19, of Dover, Delaware; two counts of terroristic threats and one each of theft, prohibited possession of weapon and recklessly endangering another person; 228 days to 23 months in prison and $50 payment to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account. Prosecutors withdrew three counts of simple assault, two each of harassment and disorderly conduct, one each of conspiracy, receiving stolen property and criminal mischief and an additional count of recklessly endangering another person.

Donnie T. Carl, 29, of Mount Carmel; possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance; 1 1/2 to three years in a state correctional institution, $100 payment to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $50 CJEA payment, $2,192 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem, 20 hours community service and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew four counts each of possession of firearm with altered number and possession of a controlled substance and one each of possession of drug paraphernalia and prohibited possession of offensive weapon.

Joeleen A. Eckert, 35, of Pottsville; possession of prohibited offensive weapon and disorderly conduct; 64 days to 12 months in prison, $50 CJEA payment and $50 bench warrant fee.

Luis A. Haddock, 24, of Pottsville; simple assault; 129 days to 12 months in prison and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of harassment.

Joshua E. Kaylor, 26, of Frackville; conspiracy; 46 days to 23 months, $50 CJEA payment and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

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

Woman to answer

to drug charges

MAHANOY CITY — A Mahanoy Township woman was arrested by Mahanoy City police on drug charges after an incident about 12:10 p.m. Thursday at a home at 119 E. Pine St.

Police said Faith Morgan, 41, of 22 Coles St., was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Police said officers were called to the East Pine Street address to assist county adult probation officers in making contact with Morgan. When probation officials and officers entered the home, Morgan left with something in her hand and proceeded to her vehicle.

At the vehicle and inside Morgan’s purse, police said, officers found three baggies that contained material that tested positive for methamphetamine along with items of drug paraphernalia.

Morgan will now have to answer before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker, Shenandoah.

Police: Palo Alto

man fled crash

A crash that occurred Saturday in the unit block of North Claude A. Lord Boulevard, Route 61, was investigated by Pottsville police.

Police said Tyler Leedy, 20, of Palo Alto, was driving a Volkswagen Jetta and ran into the back of an Acura RDX driven by a 54-year-old Mountain Top man who was stopped in the left lane facing south at Norwegian Street.

Police said both drivers exited their vehicles and agreed to pull into the parking lot of CVS Pharmacy to exchange information but instead of doing so, Leedy fled the scene.

With the assistance of a witness who followed the Leedy vehicle, police said, the vehicle and its occupants were located a short time later on the Pottsville-Port Carbon stretch of Route 209.

No injuries were reported. Police said Leedy will be charged by a criminal complaint with accidents involving damage to attended vehicles or property and careless driving.

Woman injured

in 2-vehicle crash

Pottsville police investigated a crash about 4:45 p.m. Friday at Mill Creek Avenue and North Claude A. Lord Boulevard, Route 61.

Police said that officers located a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee that was driven by Francis Burns Jr., 57, of Pottsville, stopped along the shoulder of the southbound lanes of Route 61 with heavy damage to the passenger’s side.

A second vehicle, another 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee, driven by a 21-year-old Pine Grove man, was in the parking lot of the Pottsville Diner with moderate front-end damage.

Police said that at the time of the crash a 23-year-old woman, a 4-year-old girl and a 6-month-old boy were all inside the Jeep driven by the Pine Grove man. The woman, police said, complained of leg pain and was taken by Schuylkill Medical Center-East Norwegian Street for treatment by Schuylkill EMS.

Police said their investigation determined that Burns had been trying to make a left turn from Route 61 onto Mill Creek Avenue when he drove into the path of the Pine Grove man’s vehicle.

Both vehicles were towed from the scene. Police were assisted by Pottsville firefighters.

Mahanoy City,

Tilden pubs cited

Two area businesses have been cited by the state police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement for violations of the state Liquor Law.

Police said McGuires Pub, 130 W. Centre St., Mahanoy City, was charged with operating or allowing the operation of gambling devices or permitting or operating gambling, lotteries or pool selling on Jan. 27.

Logans Roadhouse Inc., 65 Wilderness Trail, Tilden Township, was charged for incidents between Jan. 26 and 31 for failing to have its board-appointed manager complete mandated training within 180 days of the liquor boards approval of appointment.

Fines for violations can range between $50 and $1,000 for minor offenses or up to $5,000 more serious infractions and also include suspension or revocation of a license and mandatory training.

Man accused of

threatening calls

GIRARDVILLE — A borough man will be charged with harassment by Girardville police in connection with an incident last month.

Police said Robert Barlow Sr. repeatedly called Leo Cress on his cellphone and used obscene language toward the man. Barlow also left a threatening message on the man’s cellphone, part of which said “you better pack up and leave town because your days are numbered,” police said.

Police said a complaint was filed with their department by Cress and that Barlow will have to answer to the charge before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville.

Girardville man

allegedly was high

GIRARDVILLE — Charges are pending against a man after an incident about 6:55 p.m. April 27 at 242 W. Preston Ave. in the borough.

Girardville police said officers were called to the area for a suspicious person and found Kurt Hartz, 26, of Richard Street and Preston Avenue, acting strange and flailing his arms.

When taken into custody, police said, Hartz admitted taking bath salts and heroin about an hour before the incident.

The man was taken to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street for treatment and will be charged through the office of Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville.

Man reports theft

after having guests

GIRARDVILLE — Girardville police are investigating the theft of medication that was reported to their department on April 9.

Police said James Martin, 204 E. Main St., reported someone stole 163 prescription pills along with $193 in cash.

Police said Martin reported he had a female guest and her male companion for dinner but said he could not identify either person.

When the two left, it was discovered that the medication and money was missing, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Girardville police at 570-276-6955.

Police: Woman hit

man during spat

GIRARDVLLE — A borough man and woman will be charged by Girardville police with persistent disorderly conduct after an incident at 146 W. Main St. on April 4.

Police said Robert Barlow Sr. and his girlfriend, Amber Blickley, will have to answer the charges before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville.

Police said Barlow was screaming and using obscene language toward Blickley about 3 p.m. on the corner of Richard and Main streets in view of both neighbors and children exiting a school bus.

Police said Barlow approached officers and continued yelling and threatening to kill Blickley if she hit him again. Blickley then walked up and began using obscene language, and Blickley hit him, police said.

Task force sets

DUI checkpoints

The North Central Regional Sobriety Checkpoint DUI task force announced that Sobriety Checkpoints and Roving DUI Patrols will be conducted now through Monday on routes 61, 183, 901, 209, 1006, 309, 1008, 443, 895, 125, 25, 924 and 54.

Travelers are reminded to call 911 if they suspect a drunk driver or to call, toll-free, 888-UNDER21, to report underage drinking.

Police investigate

theft of scooter

PORT CARBON — Port Carbon police are investigating the theft of a scooter that occurred sometime between March 14 and Monday at 108 Coal St.

Police said they received a call from Total Accessibility Unlimited reporting a Pride Victory scooter rented to Michael R. Harwick was not paid for or returned.

Company officials said Harwick rented the scooter on a month-to-month basis beginning Dec. 7 for $175 a month. The man paid $350 for December and January but had not paid since or returned the scooter as required.

Police said Harwick owes the company rent in the amount of $700 for four months and that a letter sent to him about the matter was returned and his telephone number found to be disconnected.

Restitution owed to Total Accessibility Unlimited is $1,225, police said.

Two Auburn residents went to prison after admitting Friday in Berks County Court that they possessed heroin with intent to deliver it to a North Manheim Township man who died after injecting the drug in November 2014 in Landingville.

Sean M. Hess, 24, and Kaitlin S. Leibensperger, 23, each pleaded guilty before Judge Patrick T. Barrett to involuntary manslaughter and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.

Barrett promptly sentenced Hess to serve 11 1/2 to 23 months in prison and an additional 13 years probation, and Leibensperger to spend one to two years in a state correctional institution and an additional 13 years probation.

Prosecutors withdrew charges of drug delivery resulting in death, hindering apprehension, conspiracy, tampering with evidence, recklessly endangering another person, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance against Hess and Leibensperger.

State police at Frackville charged Hess and Leibensperger with possessing the heroin with the intent to deliver it to Joseph Deleon, 19, on Nov. 20, 2014, in Fleetwood.

Police said Hess provided Deleon with the heroin and Leibensperger gave him a needle to inject it. Deleon passed out after using the heroin, and was driven to Landingville, where Hess, Leibensperger, and James Lyons, formerly of Schuylkill Haven, left him, according to police.

Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner Deb Detweiler pronounced Deleon dead at 4:11 p.m. at the scene. Coroner Dr. David J. Moylan III ruled that Deleon died of heroin toxicity.

Kaitlin Leibensperger is not the only member of her family whose life has been affected by drugs.

Her brother, Joshua R. Leibensperger, 25, of Schuylkill Haven, died May 2 at his residence. Moylan said Saturday that he suspects Joshua Leibensperger’s death is drug-related.

Moylan said a virtual autopsy was performed Thursday on Joshua Leibensperger, and the results are consistent with a drug-related death.

He said he is sad to learn when a young person dies and especially when they die of drug-related causes.

“It tears me up so much when we see these young people snuffed out in the prime of their lives,” Moylan said.

State police Trooper Thomas Robin of the Schuylkill Haven station said Tuesday that Joshua Leibensperger’s father, Barry Leibensperger, found his son outside. Robin said state police investigated the death and determined Joshua Leibensperger suffered from “a drug overdose resulting in death.”

He said he probably died early in the morning at his father’s house. No additional investigation is planned.

“It’s terrible. It’s the worst I’ve seen it,” Robin said of people dying from drugs.

On Saturday, the annual Soap Box Derby will be held on Laurel Boulevard, between Second and Seventh streets, in Pottsville.

Pottsville police said that in conjunction with this event, there will be temporary no parking regulations in place beginning at 8 p.m. Friday and continuing until the end of the derby Saturday.

Police said vehicular traffic will not be allowed on Laurel Boulevard, between Second and Seventh streets, beginning at 6 a.m. Saturday until the end of the event.

The rain date is Sunday.

The third-grade students at John S. Clarke Elementary Center have selected the Make-A-Wish Foundation as its top charitable community organization this year, Anita Dwyer, Karen’s Heroes chairwoman, said Monday night.

The recognition was part of the 17th annual Karen’s Heroes Program, held the week of April 25 to 29. Karen’s Heroes is a traditional tribute to elementary school teacher Karen Chattin-Ney, who died in 1998 at age 46.

Chattin-Ney’s friends and family, including widower, Thomas Ney, and parents, Joseph and Joan Chattin, came up with the Karen’s Heroes Program in 1999 as a way to remember her.

“As determined by the school administration and third-grade teachers, lessons were taught to students about contributing charitable donations to causes in the local community. Over a one-week period, the children learned about the work of five local charities that benefit adoption-ready animals, local homeless shelters, wildlife conservation, children with life-threatening illnesses and children’s reading. Attending one lesson each morning, the third-grade children learned why these causes and organizations are important to all people living in our community and to future generations. The five lessons explained how charities need volunteer and financial support from people in the community who can afford to give ... a little time or money,” Dwyer said Monday.

A total of $1,500 will be distributed among the five local charities who sent representatives to give presentations at the school during the week.

In all, 201 third-grade students cast their votes. Each vote was worth $5. A total of $1,500 will be distributed among the five organizations. The donations are given in the name of the third-grade students, with the following totals:

• Make-A-Wish Foundation: $469

• Hillside SPCA: $454

• Schuylkill Conservancy: $219

• Servants to All-homeless shelters: $184

• Pottsville Free Public Library: $174

n Altamont: The Altamont Fire Company, 209 S. Green St., will have an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. May 22. Tickets are $8. For more information, call 570-449-1932.

n Heckscherville: Clover Fire Company will stage a breakfast from 7 a.m. to noon Sunday at the firehouse, 8 Clover Road. The cost is $8 for adults and $3 for children. For more information, call 570-294-0612.

n Mahanoy City: The Mahanoy City Elks Lodge, 135 E. Centre St., will have a meat bingo from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday. The cost is $1 per card. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and food will be available during the games.

n Mar Lin: A fashion show featuring the Special Olympics athletes of Schuylkill County is set for Sunday at the Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 Maple Avenue campus. The event will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $5. The athletes will model outfits supplied by local consignment, according to a press release. For more information, call 570-617-3681.

n Minersville: An American Red Cross blood drive will be held from 1 to 6 p.m. May 19 at the Good Shepherd Building, 301 Heffner St. People 17 and older (16 with parental consent), weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health are urged to donate blood. For more information or to arrange for an appointment, call 800-733-2767.

n Orwigsburg: Registration for Blue Mountain Tri-County football and cheerleading will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Orwigsburg Ambulance Building, Market Street. The cost is $40 per player plus $50 for a one-time fundraiser. The cost for each additional child is $30. For more information, call 570-385-4664.

n Schuylkill Haven: The American Cancer Society Relay for Life will sponsor “Carnival for a Cure: Relay for Life” at noon May 21 at Island Park, 1 Broadway St. Admission is free and the event will include pony rides, a bounce house, face painting, carnival games, raffles, bands and a disc jockey. Proceeds will benefit the ACS Relay for Life. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-874-1413.

n Schuylkill Haven: The Annual Appreciation Night Picnic will take place Thursday at Island Park, Schuylkill Haven. The Island Park committee wishes to invite all of its sponsors and supporters that contributed to the park over the last year. Anyone that contributed time, money or in-kind services to Island Park are invited. An old-fashioned picnic will be held, with hamburgers and hot dogs along with refreshments. Come out and see what has been done this past year, and hear about the future plans that are in store for Island Park. Enjoy an evening on the Island and see what your contributions have done. RSVP not needed, but would help in planning of the food. Please call Gary or Sandy Hess at 385-3578 for reservations or any questions that you may have.

n Shenandoah: Restoration Fellowship, 201 W. Oak St., will host the Rev. John McTernan for a “Miracle Prophetic Service” at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. All are welcome to attend.

n Shenandoah: Trinity Academy in the Father Walter J. Ciszek Education Center, the northern Schuylkill regional parochial school at Cherry and Chestnut streets, will celebrate its 10th anniversary May 22 with a celebration of Mass on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity at 3 p.m. in Divine Mercy Roman Catholic Church across the street from the school. The public is welcome to attend the Mass, which will fulfill the Sunday Mass obligation. Following the Mass, everyone is welcome to attend a reception in the school hall. Refreshments, deli trays and baked goods will be served. State Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, will present the school with a citation for the milestone during the reception. People will be able to take a tour of the school and view the classroom doors, which will be “decked out” for the celebration, according to a press release. Those planning to attend are asked to email Christine Zuber Fannick, advancement director, a cfannick@trinitymatters.com so the school can have ample refreshments and seating available.

FRACKVILLE — Black Diamond Antiques & Collectibles at the Schuylkill Mall is closing Sunday.

Signs at both entrances say the store will close at 5 p.m. Sunday. Black Diamond has been at the mall for 18 years.

“It’s a shame,” Brad Hamilton, 57, of Fleetwood, Berks County, said.

He stopped by the store Tuesday and said he stops when he’s in the area.

Elaine Maneval, mall manager, confirmed the store is closing Sunday. Maneval wrote a letter May 6 that was then sent to the 60 vendors at the location. A message was also posted on the mall’s Facebook page. In part, the letter reads, “Thank you for your continued support of Black Diamond Antiques. Your business relationship with Empire Schuylkill Black Diamond LLC (Licensor) has been truly appreciated. Sadly, this letter is to inform you Empire Schuylkill Black Diamond LLC has made a decision to close Black Diamond Antiques.”

It says the items for sale by the dealers must be removed by June 1, adding help is available if needed. The sheriff’s sale scheduled at 10 a.m. June 17 in courtroom No. 1 is listed as the reason for the decision, according to the letter. A judgment was entered Jan. 20, for the plaintiff, Walnut Street 2014-1 issuer LLC, by and through The BancorpBank, its servicer and agent for $27,428,876.10 against Empire Schuylkill LP, the owner of the mall, for the mall located at 830 Schuylkill Mall Road.

“As difficult as this decision is, Empire Schuylkill Black Diamond LLC is taking this route in the best interest of both the dealers and the staff at Black Diamond,” the letter said.

A closure date of 9 p.m. May 9 was on the letter. Maneval said she did not pick the date and declined to say how the date was arrived at. The vendors have leases and they had to be notified in writing, Maneval said. On Monday, Maneval and the manager of Black Diamond, Tom Elison, asked the landlord to consider allowing the store to remain open for another week.

The reason was because of the customers who love the business and the thousands of items there and to give the vendors time to continue to sell their merchandise so they would have less inventory to move, Maneval said. The change of date was granted. The letter also said those who have paid their rent will receive a pro-rated refund.

“We apologize that this course of action needs to be taken,” the letter said.

Maneval said eight people work at the store, one full-time and seven part-time employees.

“We are extremely heartbroken to lose Black Diamond and the extremely dedicated staff,” she said.

She did not have additional information if the employees will be eligible for any financial assistance.

Blum’s Auction Service next door will not be closing.

“This does not affect Blum’s at all,” Maneval said.

Black Diamond is located in a 50,000-square-foot space while Blums occupies 35,000-square feet of the original 85,000 square-feet of the former Hess’s store. Black Diamond’s first location was Sugarman’s, then at its current site, then where Dunham’s Sports is now located and back to the current location, Maneval said.

Elison, who has been a manager at Black Diamond for 13 or 14 years, confirmed the store will close. He said the employees will be working until June 1 or possibly later. He said people will miss the store. Some of the vendors are from as far away as South Carolina. Some are from New York, but most are from Pennsylvania, he said.

He told the employees about the closure Friday.

Mary K. Schreffler, 65, of Mechanicsville, received a hug from one of the dealers Tuesday.

“This is the hardest part, seeing the dealers I have to say goodbye to,” she said.

Schreffler, a cashier, has worked at Black Diamond for 18 years. She likes her job and the people she meets.

“Hopefully, I can find another job,” she said.

Melissa Keim, 45, and her daughter, Alexis Keim, 22, of Barnesville, said they enjoy shopping at the store. They said the closure is sad. They were there Tuesday to look for furniture for Alexis.

“It’s kind of like a museum,” Alexis said.

Elison agreed.

“It’s like walking through time,” he said.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Geisinger Medical Center, Danville

To Troy Kishbach and Heather Canfield, Nescopeck, a son, April 26. Grandmothers are Rosemary Alsvan, Shenandoah, and Cynthia Kishbach, Nescopeck.

To Kevin and Jillian Whalen Powell, Mount Carmel, a son, May 2.

Andrew L. Riegel told a Schuylkill County jury on Tuesday that he could not believe it when he realized he had shot his best friend in June 2005 in a townhouse in Schuylkill Haven.

“When the gun went off, it startled me,” Riegel said about his killing of Richard E. Watkins, 18. “I asked, ‘Was it really loaded?’ I heard Ricky ... going down the steps.”

Riegel testified on the first day of the trial of him and nine other people being sued by Andrea Watkins, Richard Watkins’ mother and the administratrix of his estate, for the June 7, 2005, death of her son. The trial, over which Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin is presiding, is scheduled to resume at 9:30 a.m. today with closing arguments.

Andrea Watkins is asking for unspecified damages in excess of $50,000, plus costs and punitive damages, from the defendants, whom she alleges caused her son’s death.

Richard Watkins, who was an 11th-grade student, died after being shot with a .357-caliber Ruger Magnum revolver at 334 S. Garfield Ave., Schuylkill Haven Police Chief Jeffrey J. Walcott testified.

“I could hear screaming,” Walcott testified about the scene when he entered. “The individual (Riegel) holding him was hysterical. I had no idea what had occurred.”

Walcott said he questioned witnesses, including Riegel, who said he had asked Raymond Callaghan, Pottsville, to look at the gun.

When questioned Tuesday by Richard B. Bateman Jr., Media, Andrea Watkins’ lawyer, Riegel said he went to help his friend after firing the shot.

“I ran down the steps immediately. I picked him up,” Riegel said.

“Was there a lot of blood?” Bateman asked.

“Yes,” Riegel answered.

“All over?”

“Yes.”

Callaghan testified he found the gun in his mother’s room and called Riegel upstairs to look at it. He said he did not want to remember the rest.

“I watched my best friend die,” Callaghan said.

The other defendants in the case include:

• Christa Azbell, Schuylkill Haven

• Joan Callaghan, Pottsville, Raymond’s mother

• Kara M. Coobaugh, Schuylkill Haven

• Adam Cooper, Schuylkill Haven

• Judy Cooper, Schuylkill Haven

• Matthew Ditzler, Orwigsburg

• Dale R. Gangaway, Reading, the owner of the gun, who did not appear for the first day of the trial

• Gary Riegel, Schuylkill Haven

Andrea Watkins originally filed the lawsuit on June 8, 2007, in Philadelphia County Court. However, Philadelphia County Judge William J. Manfredi ordered the case transferred to Schuylkill County Court.

In 2008, Judge, now Senior Judge, D. Michael Stine dismissed the maker of the gun, Sturm, Ruger & Co., Southport, Connecticut, from the lawsuit, ruling the federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act bars such lawsuits against gun manufacturers, distributors, dealers and importers.

Riegel was tried as a juvenile. On April 4, 2006, President Judge William E. Baldwin found him delinquent of involuntary manslaughter and possession of a firearm by a minor. He served probation until he turned 21.

FRACKVILLE — A Ringtown man arrested earlier this month on child pornography and drug charges waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville.

Kristin Delorge, 41, of 131 Breisch Road, was charged on May 3 by Trooper John Powis of the Computer Crime Unit with 20 felony counts of sexual abuse of children-possession of child pornography, one felony count each of possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance and criminal use of a communications facility, two misdemeanor counts of possession of a controlled substance and one misdemeanor count of possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

After signing court paperwork to waive the hearing, Delorge was returned to Schuylkill County Prison where he is being held on $100,000 straight cash bail set by Hale at the time of his arrest.

In his criminal complaint, Powis charged Delorge in connection with incidents at his home beginning Dec. 20 and continuing through May 3.

Powis said that on Dec. 20, the computer crime unit was conducting an undercover investigation into the Internet sharing of child pornography and was able to locate a computer that was sharing child pornography images on two separate websites.

The computer was found to be at the Delorge home and on March 7, Powis said, a search warrant was obtained for that residence from Magisterial District Judge David J. Rossi, Tremont. The warrant was executed the following day, March 8.

The search yielded a laptop computer, desktop computers and cellphones as well as suspected drugs and drug paraphernalia, along with $1,334.

During an interview, Powis said, Delorge admitted owning the drugs, drug paraphernalia and cash. When asked about the images of child pornography, Delorge acknowledged any such images found on laptop computer were his, Powis said.

Powis said that he subsequently received the results of testing on the suspected drugs seized from the Delorge home. Those tests, the trooper said, confirmed the seized drugs as being methamphetamine and marijuana.

Christina E. Hale

FRACKVILLE — A Shenandoah man charged with stabbing and assaulting a woman in Frackville on March 16 appeared for a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, where prosecutors withdrew the most serious offenses.

Ronexon Luis Collado, 22, of 115 N. West St., was arrested by Frackville police Patrolman Philip Petrus and charged with felony aggravated assault; misdemeanor offenses of simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and two counts of disorderly conduct; and a summary charge of harassment.

Assistant District Attorney Kimm Montone withdrew aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, simple assault and one count of disorderly conduct, while Collado waived the remaining two offenses — disorderly conduct and harassment — to Schuylkill County Court.

Petrus charged Collado with assaulting Bethany Fowler in the area of the 400 block of South Lehigh Avenue during an argument. Petrus said the argument escalated, with Collado brandishing a black pocket knife and stabbing the woman, causing injuries to her arm and lower back.

Collado was taken into custody a short time later without incident and the woman taken to a local hospital for treatment, Petrus said.

Other court cases included:

Brian K. King, 40, of 8 Broadwing Circle, Hamburg — withdrawn: false identification to law enforcement, driving without a license and careless driving. Waived for court: DUI and DUI-high rate.

Jennifer M. Probition, 38, of 800 W. High St., Frackville — waived for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Stephen J. Bayer

TAMAQUA — A 44-year-old borough man charged with assaulting another man on Feb. 18 at a Tamaqua business waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Stephen J. Bayer.

Ronald W. Pratt, 504 Washington St., was arrested by Tamaqua police Patrolman Corey Herring and charged with one count each of simple assault and harassment. By waiving his right to a hearing, Pratt will now have to answer to both charges in Schuylkill County Court.

Herring charged Pratt with assaulting Christopher Miller about 11:40 a.m. at Hiller’s Hideaway, 514 E. Union St.

Herring said Pratt confronted Miller near the door of the business and struck him in the face, causing multiple facial fractures that required medical treatment.

Other court cases included:

Robin Erney, 24, of 423 Hazle St., Tamaqua — waived for court: retail theft.

John W. Welfel, 24, of 318 W. Abbott St., Lansford — held for court: false identification to law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Cody M. Andrewsky, 21, of 45 Lower St., Morea — waived for court: failure to keep right, DUI-controlled substance, disregard for single traffic lane, no headlights, purchase of alcohol by a minor and turning movements and required signals.

Brett M. Kline, 22, of 10 W. Centre St., Apt. 606, Mahanoy City — waived for court: retail theft and receiving stolen property.

BARNESVILLE — The township supervisors will beef up their efforts to collect delinquent garbage fees through the township solicitor.

The supervisors and solicitor Christopher Riedlinger discussed three options on how the collection effort could be done at Monday’s regular monthly meeting. The discussion followed up on a similar discussion at the April meeting.

“Last month, we talked about the garbage bills that are pretty high,” Vice Chairman Clyde “Champ” Holman said. “At the time, he (Riedlinger) said you could hire him and send some letters out saying that we’ll attach liens onto the properties. He does this for Gordon, and I think he does this for Rush Township.”

Holman said in addition to the solicitor option, other options would be to continue to use Creditech Inc. for collections or consider Portnoff Law Associates LTD., a law firm that focuses on delinquent collections and legal actions that is used by municipalities, authorities and school districts in the area.

“He (Riedlinger) gave the scenarios of using Creditech or turning it over to Portnoff or doing it with him,” Holman said. “If we do it with either Portnoff or him, and in order for us to get all our monies back when you lien a property, you have to do an ordinance under the municipal laws.”

Holman said the costs involved in giving the collection duties to Portnoff will include additional costs to the township, as well as for the delinquent accounts.

“We don’t have to put up front money with Portnoff. It will be a lot more of a burden on the people who don’t pay,” Holman said. “And if (Portnoff) sends a letter out, there is a cost added to the delinquent, where Creditech is a flat fee. In the case of Chris Riedlinger, our solicitor, we do the ordinance for the lien, but the lien part must also have an ordinance for the purpose of getting the attorney fees back.”

Holman made the motion to go with Riedlinger, which was seconded by Supervisor Franklin Fetter, and approved unanimously with Chairman David Morgan.

“And Frank Fetter mentioned that if you don’t pay with Creditech, they’re kind of like a utility and it will affect your credit rating,” Holman said.

Holman said if the township pursues a sheriff’s sale for collection of the delinquent fees, it would cost the township a few thousand dollars.

“We’ll do an ordinance and go with Chris,” Holman said.

According to Holman, the total garbage fee delinquencies is about $14,000 and growing.

In other business, the supervisors approved a subdivision plan by Anthony and Marybeth Mastrandrea on a Pine Street property between Fourth and Fifth avenues at the former Lakewood Park property. The plan was submitted to the township planning commission and William McMullen of ARRO Consulting Inc. and approved on the 0.72-acre property. A house will be constructed at the site.

The supervisors thanked the members of Boy Scout Troop 725 for cleaning up Brockton Road, and a resident commended the police for watching over the Scouts as they did their project.

The 2016 road project was approved by the supervisors.

“What we’ll do is finish off Chee Street this year, which is about $97,000,” Holman said.

He added, “We hope to have about $100,000 to $150,000 next year and maybe borrow $300,000. That will be the talk at next month’s meeting. We’ll be searching for the best interest rate. As most municipalities, we have a dire need to fix our roads and we obviously need money. So we’re going to get the most bang for our buck.”

During the public portion, the road crew was thanked for cleaning drains to prevent them from being overloaded during the recent heavy rains.

SAINT CLAIR — Recently, trees bordering state Route 61 across from Coal Creek Commerce Center were cut down.

The sight of the clear-cut hillside concerned local municipal officials, including Roland Price, the borough manager of Saint Clair, and Kimberly Lutzkanin, secretary for New Castle Township.

“We don’t know what that was all about. That’s the biggest question. Everybody’s asking ‘What’s going on?’ People who are going to Dunkin’ Donuts there and look across the street and see what’s going on, they’re asking us. And we don’t know. Some people say it’s near an access road to a quarry up there,” Price said Tuesday.

“It’s kind of a mystery,” Lutzkanin said Wednesday.

She’s been making numerous phone calls to determine if any part of the area in question is located in New Castle Township and if any permits were required.

Their questions have inspired state and county officials to conduct an investigation by the state Department of Environmental Protection and the Schuylkill Conservation District.

“Both the DEP and the SCCD are aware of this tree-cutting incident and both offices are in touch with Reading Anthracite to get some answers. We are conducting an investigation. Reading Anthracite has not applied for any permits from DEP or the SCCD for the tree-cutting activities,” Colleen Connolly, community relations coordinator with DEP’s Northeast Regional Office, Wilkes-Barre, said Wednesday.

“If a land owner wants to disturb land over an acre they would need an NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permit from DEP. Determining how many acres have been cut is part of the investigation,” Connolly said.

The area which was clear cut appears to be in Saint Clair, according to the online Schuylkill Parcel Locator.

“We believe that’s true,” Price said Wednesday.

The 104.6 acre tract in Saint Clair is owned by Reading Anthracite, Pottsville, Beth A. Hess, Bernville, and Mark R. Reeser, Sinking Spring, according to the parcel locator.

Contacted for comment on Tuesday and Wednesday, Deborah A. Fehr, executive secretary at Reading Anthracite Co., 200 Mahantongo St., Pottsville, referred all questions on the matter to Brian R. Rich, president of Reading Anthracite.

Rich could not be reached for comment on either Tuesday or Wednesday.

Lutzkanin called Reading Anthracite on Wednesday, spoke with Donna B. Kemfort in its accounting and administration office, and learned the company had in fact cut down those trees.

“She confirmed that these parcels were not in the township. But she was really vague about the project. I asked her ‘Can you share with me what is going on?’ And the gist that she gave me was that they were cutting down some trees,” Lutzkanin said.

Lutzkanin and Price were glad to hear the state and the county conservation district were looking into the matter.

“Nobody filed anything with us. We will see what happens when the state finishes its investigation,” Price said.

The area which was clear-cut is in a highly-visible area.

It borders state Route 61, one of the main corridors in Schuylkill County. This section of state Route 61 receives 10,327 in the southbound lane and 8,982 in the northbound lane on an average day, Sean Brown, safety press officer at the state Department of Transportation, District 5, said Tuesday.

The area is also near the intersection of Terry Rich Boulevard, the entrance to the Coal Creek Commerce Center in Saint Clair, home of a Wal-Mart Supercenter, a Home Depot, a Dunkin’ Donuts and other stores and restaurants.

Brown had no information on the project.

Steven Ziegler, fire forester with Weiser Forest District who is based out of the Locust Valley Fire Control Station in Barnesville, hadn’t heard anything about it when contacted Tuesday.

The owner of the Ramada in Pottsville is partly responsible for the injuries suffered by a New York man in a fall on a neighboring sidewalk in November 2013, a Schuylkill County jury ruled Wednesday.

After deliberating approximately two hours, the jury of six men and six women awarded $650,000 in damages to John A. and Nancy Centra, Manlius, New York.

Jurors also ruled DNGP Enterprises Inc. is 35 percent responsible for the Centras’ injuries and losses, while contractor Charles Pretti, Seltzer, also is 35 percent responsible and the city is 30 percent responsible, meaning DNGP and Pretti each are liable for $227,500, while the city is liable for $195,000. However, the Centras had settled with Pretti and the city before trial.

“Mr. and Mrs. Centra are very nice people and I was glad we could help them,” Albert J. Evans, Pottsville, their lawyer, said after the verdict, which ended the three-day trial over which President Judge William E. Baldwin presided.

The Centras filed the lawsuit on Aug. 13, 2014, alleging all three defendants were responsible for John Centra tripping and falling over a lamppost base on the sidewalk north of the hotel. During his testimony, Pretti admitted removing the lamppost.

Centra said he suffered a broken shoulder, a black eye and other injuries, and required care not only for himself, but also for his wife, who had had a stroke in April 2010 and for whom he had cared.

In his closing argument, Joseph Pulcini, Allentown, DNGP’s lawyer, did not dispute that John Centra suffered injuries but said the hotel was not responsible for what occurred.

“This is not the Ramada’s sidewalk,” he said. “It is the city’s sidewalk. It occurred on city property.”

Furthermore, according to Pulcini, the city controlled the power to the light.

Pulcini also blamed Pretti for Centra’s injuries, saying he took down the lamppost.

“Mr. Pretti was the person who took this post down,” he said. “We proved that Mr. Pretti was responsible for this.”

In his closing argument, Evans said state law makes the hotel responsible for adjoining sidewalks. He emphasized that the hotel put up a sign directing people to use the entrance near the exposed lamppost base.

“They’ve got a duty to protect their guests,” he said. “(Guests are) not familiar with the property. The law does not require you to own the property.”

Evans said the Centras had out-of-pocket expenses of almost $68,000 and also suffered far more for pain and other losses.

Pulcini had no comment after the verdict, while Evans thanked juriors for what they did.

“I want to thank the jury for being so attentive and taking the time out of their busy schedule to decide the matter,” he said. “I appreciate their hard work.”

MAHANOY CITY — Trinity Academy students, parents and faculty processed along Mahanoy Street in Mahanoy City on Wednesday evening to give honor to the Blessed Virgin Mary with the crowning of her statue.

The May procession has been a tradition with the school since it was founded in 2006, and this year marked the 10th anniversary procession and crowning. The month of May is dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Catholics honor her with special devotions, one of which is having someone, usually a school child, participate in a May crowning ceremony with the crowning after a procession. The processions can be outside or inside.

The procession participants gathered near St. Cecilia Chapel in Mahanoy City and began the walk from there, going south on Catawissa Street, then turning onto Mahanoy Street and walking west to Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Roman Catholic Church. The eighth-grade students wore their graduation gowns and caps, while the children who received First Holy Communion wore the clothes they wore as first communicants earlier this month.

Before the procession, Sister Mary Ann Spaetti, IHM, principal said traditions as the May procession and crowning are important for the young people to learn.

“For me this is very special,” Spaetti said. “If we can give these kids a good solid devotion to the Blessed Mother, it is going to see them through life. They can go to her throughout their lives with all their troubles, and their lives will be better because of it. With kids, the experiential religious devotions are the ones that stick with them. The things they do and the things they see and the dressing up is something they will remember.”

The annual procession to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the dearest traditions of the elementary school at the Father Walter J. Ciszek Elementary Center. Each year, the procession is held at one of the parish churches of the Trinity Academy students. The first procession in May 2007 was held in Ashland — beginning alphabetically — and has rotated through the towns.

Spaetti greeted everyone before the walk began.

“Let us make a joyful noise to the Lord in honor of our Blessed Mother,” she said. “We are witnessing to our love for our dear Blessed Mother and this great night. Thank you, God, for that sunshine in my eyes. Thank you, God, for all of our good gifts.”

The procession began outside the chapel led by seventh-grader Winter Gehrman, who carried the cross along the way followed by members of the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Schuylkill Assembly 0923. Holding the crown of flowers was second-grader Gianna Gianelli, and holding a basket filled with homemade Mother’s Day cards was second-grader Chase McCole. The borough police provided the safety escort with vehicles at the front and back of the procession.

As everyone processed, the Glorious Mysteries of the rosary were prayed, led by Spaetti. As the procession reached the church, most of the class stood in the street and sang “Bring Flowers of the Fairest” for the crowning of the Blessed Mother statue in front of the church by eighth-grader Sarah Halupa, the student council president.

The procession participants moved into the church for a service celebrated by the Rev. Kevin Gallagher, pastor, assisted by Gehrman. After his reading of the Gospel, Gallagher gave the homily, focusing on Mary’s “fiat” (Latin for “let it be”) in accepting God’s will to become the mother of Jesus and how that is an example for every person to follow.

“When we look at Mary, we see more than just a mother. We see an example to us all,” Gallagher said. “You see, Mary’s ‘yes’ affected all of us, and that is why she is so honored today. Think of how many times you have said ‘no’ to God. We often say ‘no’ to God about what he asks of us. Why? Because we put ourselves first. So often we say no to what we should be doing. We honor Mary for her ‘yes.’ And it wasn’t an easy ‘yes,’ because her ‘yes’ to God’s will meant that Mary’s life was changed. It would never again be the same. She didn’t know what path that God would lead her down.”

Gallagher said agreeing to God’s will is a matter of trust, something that can be difficult for many people with the crosses to bare.

The completion of the homily led to the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament for adoration, including the “Act of Consecration,” “Fatima Prayer of Adoration” and benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and blessing of the people by Gallagher holding the monstrance.

The service ended with the singing of “Hail, Holy Queen” and an invitation to the parish hall for refreshments.

LEBANON — Although they already feel like they’ve “won the lottery,” Rodney Betz said he encourages his wife, Cindy, to look at the big picture.

The Pine Grove couple was seated in the waiting room of Balaci Oral and Facial Surgery in Lebanon on Wednesday, awaiting the gift Dr. Alexandre Balaci granted Cindy in her quest for a new smile.

Rodney checked his phone shortly after 12:30 p.m., and saw it was a call from Cindy’s son, Christopher Brown, already asking, “How’s mom?”

Cindy offered a slight, toothless grin, admitting she was a little nervous but was ready to go.

Balaci, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, greeted Cindy, who is the first recipient of the Second Chance Program. She was undergoing surgery Wednesday at Balaci’s 860 Tuck St. office for implant placement, where screws were to be surgically inserted into her jawbone.

Balaci said a CAT scan was taken of Cindy’s mouth, which helped him plan the surgery and make a drill guide where the screws, and eventually her new teeth will be placed.

Once her gums are healed in two to three months, her permanent, implanted teeth can be placed, he said. The new teeth can be made of a variety of materials, from processed acrylic to porcelain.

“It depends what she picks,” he said.

Cindy is receiving the dental surgery, which is estimated to cost $40,000 to $50,000, for free from Balaci’s Second Chance Program, which is a way for Balaci to give back to his patients.

Cindy, now 59, was 23 when a truck’s head-on collision with her motorcycle left her in a coma and broke off most of her teeth. The crowns placed on some of her teeth started breaking off and her mouth became infected and sore. She avoided social situations because she was embarrassed by her smile, her husband said. He took a day off work as a welder for Jay’s Railing, Bethel, to be with her.

“I’ve been inside all winter. I can’t wait to get back outside. I plant flowers everywhere,” she said.

Her process of recovering her smile began Sept. 11, 2015, when she found out she was chosen from nearly 40 applicants for the free dental implants.

“I’m looking forward to just being able to eat,” Cindy said. “For Mother’s Day, I got invited for dinner, and I just smashed what I could on my plate.”

Her daughter, Terri, and son-in-law, Jamie Robertson, Cressona, prepared the dinner. Terri manages the Manheim Diner, her mother said. Cindy has six children and 10 grandchildren.

Until she receives her new teeth, she’s been eating soft foods like applesauce, mashed potatoes, and her favorite, ice cream.

On Nov. 2, Cindy underwent the first part of her dental procedure. She said Balaci pulled all of her remaining teeth and completed a bone graft, using bone from the back of her mouth for her jawbone area, then ground down her jawbone, making it more even. She said a cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Shawn R. Habakus, took impressions of her gums so that her new teeth could be created.

Rodney recognized his wife’s been on a long journey to achieve the smile she’s always wanted, and now, thanks to Balaci, that smile’s within sight.

For more information, visit the website for Balaci Oral and Facial Surgery at https://jawcare.com.

Prepare to crank up the air conditioning this summer.

Forecasters predict a warmer-than-normal summer in Northeast Pennsylvania, with the potential for more days than usual when the high temperature tops out at 90 degrees or higher, particularly at the outset of the season.

“It looks to me as though we are going to have hot trends, though it’s not going to be hot all summer,” meteorologist Paul Pastelok, a long-range forecasting expert with AccuWeather, said Monday.

Pastelok said the latest models suggest the heat will come on strong in Northeast Pennsylvania and the rest of the mid-Atlantic in June before moderating somewhat in July.

“We are thinking about 2 or 3 degrees above normal for the entire season — June, July and August — but most of that is going to come on the front side of the season and then it will kind of ease back in the second half,” he said.

Since 2011, there have been 58 days when the official high temperature recorded by the National Weather Service at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport hit 90 degrees or higher.

That is an average of 11.6 days annually over the past five years. The area’s normal average for 90-plus days, which the weather service bases on the reference period from 1981 through 2010, is just 6.3 annually.

Pastelok said the number of days this summer when the high at the airport climbs to at least 90 degrees likely will be “in the low to mid teens.”

“I think you will see a few of those happening in June and maybe most of them happening in June and early July,” he said. “Then it will tail off a little bit.”

While temperatures may continue to run above average through July, the heat should not be as extreme or prolonged, he said.

“We think some disturbances will kick off thunderstorms from time to time in the month of July,” Pastelok said. “You’ll get hot ahead of these disturbances and then cool back off for a day or two behind them.”

Ray Brady, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service forecast office in Binghamton, New York, said the NWS Climate Prediction Center’s extended outlook for Northeast Pennsylvania also calls for above-normal temperatures from June through August.

“Of course, this is the same group that forecasted a warm and dry May ... and that’s going to be wrong,” Brady said.