A Girardville man will not have to spend more time in prison after being sentenced Tuesday by a Schuylkill County judge for two drug-related crimes.

Instead, Robert Paulukonis, 64, was sentenced to time served to six months in prison and granted immediate parole by Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin.

Dolbin also sentenced Paulukonis to pay costs, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account, and perform 50 hours community service.

In a nonjury trial on June 16, Dolbin had found Paulukonis guilty of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia, but not guilty of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.

Girardville police had charged Paulukonis with possessing marijuana and paraphernalia on Nov. 12, 2014, in the borough.

Also on Tuesday, Judge James P. Goodman revoked the probation of Robert Weismiller, 45, of Port Carbon, and sentenced him to time served to 18 months in prison with immediate parole.

Weismiller originally pleaded guilty on May 20, 2015, to recklessly endangering another person, with prosecutors withdrawing a charge of aggravated assault. At that time, Goodman sentenced him to spend 18 months on probation and pay costs and a $50 CJEA payment.

Saint Clair police had charged Weismiller with committing his crime on Aug. 1, 2014, in the borough.

In other recent county court action, a Pottsville man returned to prison Wednesday after a Schuylkill County judge revoked his parole for the second time.

Jonathan M. Pauly, 21, must remain in prison until at least Dec. 2 before becoming re-eligible for parole, Judge John E. Domalakes ruled after the revocation. Pauly could stay behind bars until May 22, 2017, under the terms of Domalakes’ order.

Pauly originally pleaded guilty on Sept. 24, 2014, to theft and conspiracy, with prosecutors withdrawing a charge of receiving stolen property. At that time, Domalakes sentenced him to serve 38 days to 18 months in prison, pay costs, $50 to the CJEA and $1,875.35 restitution, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Pottsville police charged Pauly with committing his crimes on Nov. 20, 2012, in the city.

Domalakes first revoked Pauly’s parole on Nov. 23, 2015.

On Tuesday, President Judge William E. Baldwin revoked the parole of Justin M. Koons, 26, of Pine Grove, but delayed disposition of the case.

Koons originally pleaded guilty on May 27 to simple assault and resisting arrest, with prosecutors withdrawing charges of aggravated assault and disorderly conduct. At that time, Baldwin sentenced him to serve 90 days to 18 months in prison and pay costs and a $50 CJEA payment.

Pottsville police charged Koons with committing his crimes on Feb. 28 in the city.

Schuylkill County District Attorney Christine Holman and the Schuylkill County detectives are asking for the public’s help in locating a man wanted on an outstanding bench warrant.

Detectives said that Danny Restitullo, 44, is wanted for failing to appear in court on charges of two felony counts of possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, two misdemeanor counts of possession of a controlled substance and a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Restitullo is described as being black, about 6 feet tall and weighing about 180 pounds. He has a last known address of 429 W. Coal St., Shenandoah, detectives said.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of this man or any other fugitive in Schuylkill County is asked to call the district attorney’s office at 570-628-1350, the Schuylkill County Tip Line at 570-624-3988 or your local police department. Tips can also be sent via email to dadd@co.schuylkill.pa.us.

In addition, detectives said that anyone who may see or come in contact with Restitullo should call the Schuylkill County Communications Center immediately.

All information received will remain confidential.

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

Police investigate

home invasion

CUMBOLA — State police at Frackville are investigating a home invasion that occurred about 1:20 a.m. Friday in this Blythe Township community.

Police said a 40-year-old man forcefully entered a home at 190 Market St. and was shot by a 50-year-old man who lived there.

The 40-year-old man was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.

ATV reported

stolen from yard

MAR LIN — A thief recently stole an all-terrain vehicle from a Norwegian Township backyard, state police at Schuylkill Haven said Thursday.

The incident occurred between 9:30 p.m. Aug. 4 and 5:30 a.m. Aug. 5 at 312 Beechwood Ave. The vehicle, a yellow and blue 1990 Suzuki CT500R ATV, is owned by Michael Turnista, Mar Lin, police said.

Anyone with information can call state police at 570-739-1330.

Police investigate

sexual assault

ELIZABETHVILLE — State police at Lykens are investigating a statutory sexual assault that occurred about 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Elizabethville Park and Pool in Dauphin County.

Police said a 13-year-old Lykens girl reported she had sexual intercourse with a 20-year-old Halifax man.

The incident, police said, occurred in a wooded area adjacent to the park and pool.

The child reported that she had previously met the man in the Elizabethville area and that she and other juvenile girls had interacted with him at the pool and park on multiple occasions prior to her having intercourse with him.

Police said it was the second reported incident of this nature in the same area and ask that anyone with information on this case or similar incidents call them at 717-362-8700.

Pottsville fugitive

found, arraigned

PORT CARBON — Port Carbon police investigated an unwanted person report about 5:10 p.m. July 26 in the borough.

Police said officers were called to 329 First St. for a report that Carla L. Wingle, 45, of 11 Lake St., Pottsville, was inside a home without permission.

Wingle was found at the scene and determined to be wanted on an outstanding warrant from Pottsville police. She was taken into custody and arraigned, police said.

Driver extricated

from car, not hurt

Pottsville police investigated a crash with entrapment that was reported about 4:20 p.m. Monday in the 2200 block of West Market Street.

Police said officers found a Nissan Altima that crashed into an embankment on the south side of the road near the entrance to Boyer’s parking lot.

Two passengers, a 33-year-old Auburn man and a 27-year-old Auburn woman, were evaluated at the scene by EMS and required no additional treatment.

Police said the driver, Joseph Farquharson, 64, of Auburn, was not injured but had to be extricated from the car by Pottsville firefighters.

Police said Farquharson reported his vehicle was at Hadesty’s Hardware lot across the street. When he started the vehicle, the accelerator stuck, causing it to go through the parking lot and hit a 1999 Ford pickup truck being driven by a 30-year-old Minersville man. The car then crossed the southbound lanes of West Market Street and struck the embankment, police said.

West Market Street was closed in both directions for about 30 minutes while the scene was cleared.

Police search for

suspected thief

Pottsville police have obtained an arrest warrant for a 28-year-old Saint Clair man in connection with a theft of a 1997 Jeep Wrangler from Purcell’s Service Station, 700 Nichols St.

Police said the theft occurred between 7 p.m. Aug. 3 and 3:30 a.m. Aug. 4. The SUV was recovered about 1 p.m. Aug. 4 at the Wolf Creek Reservoir in Saint Clair.

The subsequent investigation revealed the vehicle had been painted with a different color and multiple items that had been purchased at Wal-Mart in Saint Clair were still inside, police said.

With the assistance of Wal-Mart loss prevention, police said, they were able to obtain footage of the person parking the stolen vehicle in the store lot about 4:15 a.m., entering the store and stealing items, including those found inside the stolen vehicle.

Between Aug. 5 and Aug. 7, police said, investigators also discovered social media posts suggesting the identity of the person. Officers obtained witness statements and additional evidence indicating that Matthew Sleva was responsible for the theft and eventual abandonment of the stolen vehicle, police said.

A criminal complaint was prepared, charging Sleva with felony theft of an vehicle and felony receiving stolen property. A warrant also was obtained for the man’s arrest.

Police ask that anyone with information call Detective Kirk Becker at 570-622-1234, Ext. 332.

Police: Stolen

vehicle returned

Pottsville police were investigating the theft of a 2003 Chevrolet Malibu that was reported to their department Aug. 7 by a Pottsville man.

The man said the vehicle was stolen sometime between 9 a.m. Aug. 4 and 7 p.m. Aug. 7 from the 1200 block of Seneca Street and that the key was stolen from inside of his home.

The man contacted police Monday and said the vehicle had been returned and he did not want to pursue the investigation or have any charges filed.

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — Celebrating 25 years of helping injured animals, the Red Creek Wildlife Center held its annual open house Saturday.

The open house lasted from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the rehabilitation and nature center in Wayne Township. It was the third annual open house. Peggy Hentz, owner and wildlife rehabilitator at the center, said the first was held as a memorial for co-founder Morrie Katz, who passed away in 2013.

“It raises awareness so people know what to do when they find injured wildlife,” Hentz said. “The decision a person makes within the first few minutes could mean life or death for that animal. Knowing we are here means they are more likely to call us right away.”

The facility takes in about 2,500 injured animals every year, Hentz said. It currently has only three full-time employees and two interns, but many volunteers.

Hentz gave four presentations Saturday about daytime birds of prey, owls, falcons and rescuing wildlife. Some of them featured live raptors and a kestrel was also released Saturday.

A red-tailed hawk named Tiberius was used during one of the demonstrations. He is training to become an educational bird, Hentz said. A Star Trek fan, she named him after James Tiberius Kirk.

The event also featured representatives from Schuylkill County Animal Response Team, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Hillside SPCA and Kathy M. Miller, author of the Chippy Chipmunk children’s books.

“The open house gives people a chance to see some of the animals that live here they might normally not be able to see,” Nadine Essick, president of Red Creek’s board of directors and volunteer, said.

Michele Golay, a volunteer, said the event also clears up common misconceptions about rescuing animals.

“Rehabbers are few and far between, and this helps get people interested in the profession,” Golay said.

Red Creek Wildlife Center offers training courses in wildlife capturing and transportation training and basics in wildlife rehabilitation over two semesters a year. Hentz said about 50 people a year enroll in the capturing and transportation training and about 30 enroll in the rehabilitation course. People can also volunteer for the wildlife center in other ways.

Julius and Sandra Tagglieri, Birdsboro, volunteer for fundraising events at the wildlife center, like the open house on Saturday.

“We have been supporters for 15 years,” Julius said.

But it wasn’t until Sandra retired that they were able to volunteer their time at the center.

“Some animals cannot defend themselves and a lot of the animals that are brought here are victims of human intervention and need help,” Sandra said.

“We like to volunteer for stuff like this because it is so wonderful to interact with people who support the organization,” Julius said.

For more information about the Red Creek Wildlife Center, visit www.redcreekwildlifecenter.com.

Deeds

Cass Township — Schuylkill Economic Development Corp. to Highridge Improvement District Authority; 1.577-acre property on Keystone Boulevard, Highridge Industrial Park; $1.

Coaldale — Katie A. Komisak to Sean M. Landis; 248 E. High St.; $60,000.

Norwegian Township — Patricia Cielinski to Patricia and Robert Cielinski; 7 Oak St.; $1.

Pine Grove Township — William G. and Sallie E. Shepler to Fallon R. Kutz; 83 Nut Grove Road; $139,000.

Pottsville — Cecelia C. Muench to David A. Gerber; 1128 Mahantongo St.; $84,900.

Rush Township — Joseph D.A. Breslin, individually and as executor of the Estate of Carmen M. Breslin, Jane Breslin, Robert A. and Mary B. Breslin, Jerrell A. Breslin, Claudette M. and Armando J. Zarra and Phillip III and Debbie L. Ryan to Roy D. and Doris B. Habel; property on Lincoln Drive, Hometown; $1,800.

Shenandoah — Leonard G. Schumack to Shenandoah Community Ambulance Association; property on East Penn Street; $1.

South Manheim Township — Diane C. and Alan R. Severance to Stephen Yetter and Shinhee Choi; Lot 2325, Lake Wynonah; $137,000.

Tamaqua — Shirley French to Joseph Sella; property on Owl Creek Drive; $8,000.

CN Properties LLC to Dionne Wood; 26 Elm St.; $9,000.

Washington Township — Federal National Mortgage Association to Leonides Garcia-Santiago and Tammy Garcia; 40 Summerhill Road; $195,000.

FRACKVILLE — All things Lithuanian were celebrated Saturday as the 102nd annual Lithuanian Days kicked off at the Schuylkill Mall.

Sponsored by the Knights of Lithuania Council 144, the two-day event is the longest-running consecutive ethnic festival in the United States. It will continue from noon to 4 p.m. today. Admission and entertainment are free.

“Today is a celebration of our Lithuanian heritage and history both in Lithuania and America,” Paul Domalakes, Knights treasurer and master of ceremonies for the event, said Saturday. “Let’s remember and be proud of our ancestors and how it continues today in Lithuania and America and around the world and look forward to the future of both countries.”

Lithuanian culture, food, music and dance were all celebrated, but the focus this year was on churches and sports with special exhibits dedicated to the local Lithuanian churches and Olympians. There were also displays about the history of the Lithuanian Song and Dance Festivals with information from the Lithuanian Research and Studies Center, Chicago.

“This year the theme of our celebration is history of Lithuanian churches and it is also an Olympic year so we also have an emphasis on Lithuanian Olympic athletes,” Domalakes said. “Lithuanian Roman Catholic parishes of the Anthracite Region have played a huge role in the cultural and civic life in our area and provided beacons of hope to those in Soviet occupation.”

St. George Church, Shenandoah, was the first Lithuanian parish in the United States. Originally formed in 1872 at St. Casimir Church, Shenandoah, the Lithuanians left and founded St. George Church in 1891. St. Casimir Church then became a Polish parish.

St. George Church closed in 2006 and was demolished in 2010.

St. Joseph Church, Mahanoy City, founded in 1893, is the only Lithuanian church still open in the county. It has since been renamed Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Roman Catholic Church. The other Lithuanian churches on display at the exhibit were St. Francis of Assisi Church, Minersville, founded in 1895; Sacred Heart Church, New Philadelphia, 1895; Our Lady of Siluva, Maizeville, 1907; St. Vincent de Paul Church, Girardville, 1908; Ss. Peter & Paul Church, Tamaqua, 1911; St. Casimir Church, Saint Clair, 1912; St. John the Baptist Church, Coaldale, 1914; Annunciation BVM Church, Frackville, 1917; and St. Casimir Church, McAdoo, 1928.

“When the first wave came here, Christianity was a part of them,” Carol Luschas, public relations for the Knights, said. “Their traditions were center to who they were as a people. It gave them strength.”

Her mother, Elaine Luschas, said that she was baptized and married at St. Joseph Church, Mahanoy City. She also went to the church’s grade school with her husband and her grandfather was the first sexton at the church.

“He was there for the founding of the church,” Elaine said.

Sgt. 1st Class John Sticker, Fort Indiantown Gap, provided information on the Pennsylvania National Guard’s state partnership program with Lithuania. Since 1993, the Pennsylvania National Guard has provided military training for Lithuanian soldiers. Sticker has attended Lithuania Days for the last four years and has been to Lithuania as part of the program.

“We get as much as from them as they get from us,” Sticker said.

The Lithuanian Partisans Living History Group also presented Ribbons of Merit to people for their support over the years. Award recipients included Dorothy and James Setcavage, Shenandoah Heights; Paul Domalakes, Frackville; The Republican-Herald staff writer John Usalis; and Jaunutis Burbulis and Henry Gaidis, both of Baltimore, Maryland.

Wilkes

Casey Gregory, Pottsville, a pre pharmacy major at Wilkes University, Wilkes-Barre, is one of 30 Wilkes students participating in summer research projects.

Gregory is working with professor Ken Klemow in the biology department.

Students are completing an analysis of vegetation growth on natural gas pipelines in northeastern Pennsylvania. The study aims to provide information that will be helpful to scientists, regulatory agencies and the gas industry in approaching those habitats.

Lycoming

Local businesses and organizations hosted nearly 30 interns from Lycoming College, Williamsport, including Coral Chiaretti, Ashland, a senior mathematics major, to complete a wide range of projects and to give the students insights into potential careers.

The full-time internships were made possible by the college’s Williamsport Internship Summer Experience program, which connects qualified students with businesses and organizations in their field of study.

As part of the 10-week WISE program, students were paid a stipend and provided free student housing on campus. The Center for Enhanced Academic Experiences’ career advisers worked with the students and the organization to develop specific learning objectives for each student. The career advisers visited with each of the student’s site supervisors over the 10-week program to review student progress in relation to the organization’s expectations, and the career advisors consistently received positive feedback on the students’ performance.

Classic cars were lined up and down Centre Street in Pottsville on Saturday for the 23rd annual Great Pottsville Cruise.

The event, hosted by the Pottsville Lions Club, kicked off at 9 a.m. at Jerry’s Classic Cars & Collectibles Museum and included a Raffle Run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. when participants drove around the area to get a map stamped and win prizes. The vehicles were on display until 8 p.m.

“The heat and humidity are not good for cars, but I think we had a good turnout all things considered,” David W. Clews, cruise chairman, said.

Roughly 300 cars were registered for the event and featured many returning participants.

“Any cruise that has lasted more than 20 years has become a tradition,” Clews said.

He said the location for the event in downtown Pottsville continues to draw many people from out of the area.

“A lot of people from out of town come and think the architecture is pretty cool,” Clews said. “I think that is a big part of what makes this work.”

Dennis Stamm, Leesport, and George Livingston, Bethel, brought a 1954 Chevrolet Bel Air that they customized together to the cruise. They said they come every year.

“You get to see people you didn’t see since last year,” Stamm said.

“It’s a good group of people,” Livingston said.

The orange paint on the vehicle helped make it stand out in the street. They said nothing on the vehicle is original.

“I like the cars I grew up with,” Stamm said. “It takes a labor of love to build one of them.”

“You will never find one exactly like this anywhere,” Livingston said.

The car received an award for Top 60 Best in Show.

The cruise committee gave away another vehicle this year to a Schuylkill County veteran.

Last year, Bob Weaver Chevrolet donated a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee for the giveaway. There were six qualified entries and the cruise committee decided to give it to Joshua Miller, Pottsville.

Mike Watcher’s Used Cars, Pottsville, donated a 2007 Jeep Liberty 4WD for this year’s giveaway. The winner was chosen from names of county veterans who were honorably discharged and in need of transportation submitted by local veteran organizations.

The vehicle went to Clyde Rhen, a 1961 graduate of Pine Grove. Dave Bowen, chairman of the Veteran’s Car Committee, said Rhen was a marksman with the Army’s second infantry and was ready and willing to go to Vietnam, but he was honorably discharged after three years due to hearing problems. Rhen was using the Schuylkill Transportation System to get make medical appointments, Bowen said.

“Thank you everyone who had anything to do with this and coming out to support the Lions Club,” Rhen said. “I can’t help but remember every time somebody needed something, the Lions Club was there for them.”

Local businesses contributed $175 in gift cards for gas. Last year’s winner also contributed an additional $100.

n Mahanoy City: A truck housing by Good American Hose Company, 800 E. Mahanoy Ave., is set for Saturday. Judging will begin at 10 a.m. with a blessing at 2 p.m. followed by a parade, ceremony and speakers at 3 p.m. A commemorative glass of $10 will include beer, soda, hot dogs and bean soup. For more information, call 570-773-3473.

n Pine Grove: The Pine Grove Temple Association will have a Kauffman’s chicken barbecue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 5 at the Masonic Lodge, 23 Oak Grove Road. The cost is $8 per ticket. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-345-3351 or 570-345-3498.

n Pitman: Christiansbrunn Hermitage will have its annual open house from noon to 4 p.m. today with brothers Zephram and Johannes as hosts at the Harmonist spiritual center. According to a release, several buildings will be open including the Mahantongo Heritage Center, the only museum dedicated to the folk traditions of the Mahantongo Valley. The center will be open to self-guided tours and Johannes will provide a guided tour at 2:30 p.m. The Hermitage is located at 75 Grove Road, adjacent to Hepler’s Grove. Zephram will demonstrate flax spinning and will have several recently acquired examples of local spinning equipment. Johannes will do a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch bake day at the 200-year-old outdoor brick bake oven, with free samples of sourdough bread, shoo-fly, funeral and rhubarb pies, Dutch crumb cake and ginger snaps. The 1759 Gemeinehaus (community house) will also be open. Admission is free but donations will be accepted. Tours are available by appointment through the end of October by calling 570-425-2548 or by emailing BroJoh@yahoo.com.

n Port Carbon: The Port Carbon Citizens Committee will sponsor a townwide yard sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 27. The registration deadline to be on the map is Aug. 23. To register or for more information, call Deniece at 570-573-1946. Donations will be accepted. The effort will benefit the Children’s Christmas.

n Pottsville: The annual Baber Day at the Charles Baber Cemetery will begin at 3 p.m. Sept. 11. It will include walking tours, a bake sale, picnic, basket raffle and entertainment by the Third Brigade Band. It is free and open to the public.

n Saint Clair: The Saint Clair Community and Historical Society, North Nicholas Street, is sponsoring a bus trip to Atlantic City from 9 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. Sept. 8 to the Bally Casino. For more information, call 570-429-2960 or 570-429-2242.

n Schuylkill Haven: St. Mark’s Brown’s Church, 151 Summer Hill Road, will have a catered dinner of roast beef or stuffed chicken from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27. The meal will be by A&C Catering and the Cressona Band will provide music. For tickets, at $10 each, or more information, call 570-345-2343.

n Shenandoah: The Glover’s Hill Athletic Club, 935 W. Penn St., will sponsor a spaghetti-and-meatball dinner from noon to 4 p.m. Sept. 10. The cost is $8 per meal and proceeds will benefit the club. Dinners will also include salad, bread and dessert. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-590-0931.

n Shenandoah: Schuylkill County Breaker Boys will sponsor a Vera Bradley bingo from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Sept. 17 at the Columbia Hose Company, 742 W. Centre St. Tickets are $25 and bingo will include 20 regular games plus five specials. There will be a special drawing for tickets purchased in advance. A lunch buffet and dessert table will be included. For more information, call 570-590-6425 or 570-590-9888.

n Tamaqua: An American Red Cross blood drive will be held from 1 to 6 p.m. Aug. 25 at the Tamaqua YMCA, 1201 E. Broad 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.

Make A Difference Day, the largest national day of community service, will be held nationwide on Saturday, Oct. 22. Schuylkill County will be hosting the event for projects that take place within a week of the national date. We invite you to join us to help improve the quality of life in our communities. What a wonderful gift to the people of Schuylkill County.

Some of you are already gearing up for another successful campaign. Thousands of people and dozens of groups will be volunteering to do projects, such as helping a food bank, making simple stuffed bears to soothe children in distress, doing chores for their homebound neighbor, entertaining nursing home residents, making goodie bags for children in hospitals, cleaning a park, making lending library stands in public parks and more. These are a few of the creative projects that have been done in the past. No effort is too small and every project helps someone.

If you or your group are struggling to find an idea, contact Community Volunteers in Action later in the month for a “wish” list of project ideas submitted by organizations in need or for general project ideas.

Register your project to be part of this special event. It’s easy. Make A Difference Day registration forms are now being accepted. Keep in mind that your project does not have to occur on Oct. 22. We understand that some of you aren’t available that day. However, since we’re part of a national campaign, part of your local project must occur within one week of the date.

This office is the coordinating center for the event. You may elect to not be considered for a Special Commendation Award if you choose. But, please, register so we can better track how many people and groups participate in Schuylkill County.

We hope to see you again this year and remember to have fun with your project.

Registration forms can be printed from our website at www.schuylkill.us/cvia or by contacting this office at 570-628-1426, or emailing jjohnston@co.schuylkill.pa.us

Have you visited the Walk-In Art Center yet? The 501(C)3 nonprofit community center is located in the building that used to house the Walkin Shoe Factory in Schuylkill Haven. Now, it’s a beautiful art center that features studios for working artists, art exhibitions and gallery exhibits, classes, workshops and special events. Its mission is to inspire, equip and celebrate everything art in the community.

Kick Up Your Heels, its biggest annual fundraiser, will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10. The theme for this year is “Leonardo da Vinci: Art Meets Science,” celebrating the talent of one of history’s greatest minds. They invite you to join them for an evening of dancing, auctions, fundraising and fun.

The art center believes volunteers are one of their most valued community partners. Those who are energetic, friendly and dependable are welcomed to help with Kick Up Your Heels. Set up, decorating, registration, parking, live and silent auctions, food service and cleanup are some of the areas that need assistance. Volunteers are also needed for their monthly First Saturday events.

Located at 220 Parkway in Schuylkill Haven, the center is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday. They can be reached at 570-732-3728. Information on volunteering and on all the center has to offer can be found on its website at www.walkinartcenter.org.

Community Volunteers in Action is the volunteer center for Schuylkill County. Use the preceding contact information for those specific opportunities and search other listings on our website at www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Find us on Facebook. Call us at 570-628-1426 or email to jjohnston@co.schuylkill.pa.us.

Road to Recovery

drivers

Times: Flexible. Choose own availability or location.

Responsibility: Drive patients to and from treatments. Use own vehicle or agency vehicle if available.

Skills: Must have valid PA driver’s license, good driving record, a reliable vehicle and vehicle insurance. Background checks and orientation required.

Location: In and out of county.

Call: American Cancer Society, 570-874-1458

Classroom reader

volunteers

Times: Flexible.

Responsibility: Read or share projects or talents with young children in classroom.

Skills: Contact agency for details.

Location: Various Head Start facilities.

Call: Child Development at 570-544-8959.

The fate of State Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane will be in the hands of a Montgomery County jury today.

The panel of six men and six women will start deliberating after attorneys for the defense and prosecution present their closing arguments, which are set to begin this morning.

The prosecution rested its case Friday after calling 14 witnesses. Kane opted not to testify or call any witnesses on her behalf.

A Scranton native, Kane, 50, of Waverly Township, is the state’s first elected Democratic and female attorney general. She is accused of leaking secret grand jury information of the 2009 probe of J. Whyatt Mondesire to a Philadelphia newspaper, then lying to the grand jury that investigated the leak.

Prosecutors have said Kane leaked the documents to retaliate against Frank Fina, a former prosecutor in her office she blamed for leaking information that led to a negative story detailing her decision not to file charges against several Philadelphia-area legislators accused of accepting bribes.

The trial focused on three key players prosecutors say leaked documents: Kane; her former first deputy, Adrian King; and Joshua Morrow, a political consultant.

In testimony before the grand jury that investigated the leak, Kane acknowledged she authorized King to release information about the Mondesire probe, but maintained she left the decision of what to release up to him.

In his grand jury testimony, King admitted he passed an envelope containing the documents to Morrow, who then gave them to a reporter. King denied knowing what was inside. During the trial, he accused Kane and Morrow of trying to frame him.

Morrow, who testified Thursday, confirmed King’s allegations. He said Kane knew what documents were in the package. When they learned a grand jury was investigating the leak, they concocted a story to shield her involvement and place the blame on King.

Prosecutors presented several text messages between Kane and Morrow, which they contend corroborate his testimony.

Another key witness, former first deputy Bruce Beemer, testified Kane attempted to thwart the grand jury investigation of her by ordering him to challenge the appointment of the special prosecutor who presented the case to the panel. Beemer is an Abingtons area native and a 1992 University of Scranton graduate.

Jurors must decide if Kane is guilty of any or all of 11 counts she faces: two counts each of perjury, false swearing, obstructing the administration of law and official oppression, plus three counts of conspiracy.

The perjury charges are a third-degree felony that carry a maximum sentence of seven years in prison. All the other charges are second-degree misdemeanors that carry a maximum sentence of two years in prison.

The state Supreme Court suspended Kane’s license last fall after charges were filed against her. She did not step down as state attorney general, however, and survived a Senate-led effort in February to remove her from office for “reasonable cause.” Days later, she announced that she would not seek re-election, so her term in office will end in January.

If she is acquitted on criminal charges, she will serve out her term.

If she is convicted of any of the charges, there likely will be a strong call for her to resign. It’s unclear if she could be forced to so. The state Senate could move to impeach her, but that process would be essentially futile as it would take months and likely would not conclude before her term expires.

A 32-year-old Shenandoah man charged with giving drugs to a woman, almost causing her death on May 18, is among those scheduled to plead not guilty Thursday during arraignment in Schuylkill County Court.

Jason N. Bredbenner, currently an inmate at the Schuylkill County Prison, is charged with criminal attempt to commit drug delivery resulting in death, tampering with or fabricating physical evidence, aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Shenandoah police Patrolman Travis Bowman charged Bredbenner with getting heroin for a woman at her request, preparing it for her and then injecting the drug into her, also at her request.

At a preliminary hearing earlier this year, the woman said she then asked for another injection, which Bredbenner gave her, causing her to lose consciousness.

Shenandoah EMS was called to the scene and adminstered Narcan to the woman, allowing her to regain consciousness.

Others scheduled to plead not guilty, and the charges against them, include:

Hector Marte, 34, of 437 W. Coal St., Shenandoah — driving under the influence of drugs, driving without insurance, failure to carry or exhibit a driver’s license on demand, careless driving, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Benjamin E. Hendricks, 29, of 107 Willing St., Box 56, Llewellyn — DUI, DUI-high rate, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, careless driving and restrictions on alcoholic beverages.

Cheryl Neikam, 41, of 93 N. Kennedy Drive, McAdoo — DUI, DUI-high rate, general lighting requirements violation and failure to be licensed.

Julie F. Putlock, 52, of 412 High St., Schuylkill Haven — DUI and maximum speed limits violation.

Katrina M. Corra, 22, of 6 Fourth St. Rear, Box 273, Kelayres — DUI, fleeing or attempting to elude police, resisting arrest, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, driving on the wrong side of the road, driving at an unsafe speed, violation on approach of emergency vehicle and careless driving.

Donald A. Moyer, 51, of 46 N. Hancock St., McAdoo — DUI, DUI-highest rate and illegal use of multiple beam road lighting equipment.

Christopher M. Gregitis, 41, of 518 Schuylkill St., Apt. 1, Schuylkill Haven — DUI, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic, driving at an unsafe speed, careless driving, failure to give immediate notice of accident to police and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate.

Amy L. Kline, 31, of 1006 W. Main St., Box 266, Valley View — DUI, DUI-highest rate, careless driving and failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic.

Gavin M. Allen, 20, of 105 N. Reed St., Girardville — driving under the influence of drugs, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic, parking regulations and text-based communications violation.

Mark J. Turolis, 36, of 200 W. Tammany St., Orwigsburg — DUI-controlled substance.

Tanya M. Bennett, 32, of 331 W. Maple St., Mahanoy City — conspiracy, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI-controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

John M. Siegel, 42, of 3861 Sweet Arrow Lake Road, Pine Grove —DUI, DUI-controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Michael Santana, 33, of 736 Cheyenne Drive, Auburn — possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI-controlled substance, driving an unregistered vehicle, disregard for single traffic lane, careless driving and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate.

Brian J. Farrell, 19, of 105 Woodview Drive, Orwigsburg — possession of a small amount of marijuana.

Vincent W. Bloss, 21, of 200 Main St., Gilberton — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Phillip T. Shutt, 35, of 241 Long Stretch Road, Pine Grove — possession of a small amount of marijuana, harassment and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Roxanne L. Counterman, 42, of 38 W. Miner St., Coaldale — retail theft and receiving stolen property.

Brett T. Rodriguez, 37, of 259 W. Rowe St., Tamaqua — resisting arrest, harassment, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Michael Kryworuka, 41, of 3 Golf Road, Barnesville — stop and yield sign violations and giving false identification to law enforcement.

Jill M. Kostowski, 36, of 336 W. Chester St., Shenandoah — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Edward M. Coyle, 35, of 300 Spruce St., Tamaqua — giving false identification to law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Eric M. Christopher, 23, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — burglary, criminal trespass, theft, receiving stolen property, unauthorized use of automobiles, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, one-way roadways violation and driving on a sidewalk.

Stephen A. Mackeravage, 45, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — defiant trespass.

Stephen J. Kronkowsky, 47, of 220 W. Poplar St., Shenandoah — conspiracy, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, harassment and disorderly conduct.

Jean Ednerlande, 24, of 105 S. White St., Shenandoah — resisting arrest, defiant trespass, disorderly conduct and theft.

Linda M. McCoy, 37, of 59 Front St., Apt. 1A, Cressona — access device fraud, theft and receiving stolen property.

Bradley R. Knapp, 25, of 162 Schuylkill Ave., Shenandoah — possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving an unregistered vehicle and windshield obstructions.

Jessica A. Oshman, 28, of 605 W. Penn St., Shenandoah — aggravated assault on police, terroristic threats, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, resisting arrest, harassment and disorderly conduct.

Roeny R. Dorville, 27, of 242 N. Second St., Frackville — driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, failure to be licensed, driving without insurance, driving an unregistered vehicle, unauthorized use or transfer of registration, driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate and altered, forged or counterfeit documents or plates.

John A. Riddick, 37, of 247 S. Wylam St., Frackville — simple assault and harassment.

Tabatha M. Murphy, 27, of Box 441, Tamaqua — resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief and public drunkenness.

Eric M. Christopher, 23, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — false identification to law enforcement, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked and general lighting requirements violation.

Christopher M. Fessler, 30, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — theft, receiving stolen property and defiant trespass.

Vincent M. Davis, 45, of 12 W. Broad St., Apt. 302, Tamaqua — giving false identification to law enforcement, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Tina M. Hosier, 30, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — delivery of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communications facility, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, conspiracy and possession of a controlled substance.

Brian K. Haas, 48, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — arson, risking a catastrophe, recklessly endangering another person and criminal mischief.

Douglas R. Downey, 46, of 13 Judy Drive, Cressona — giving false identification to law enforcement.

Courtland Stackpole III, 39, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — criminal attempt to commit criminal homicide, aggravated assault, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, propulsion of missiles into an occupied vehicle, recklessly endangering another person, possessing instruments of crime, delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, conspiracy, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Stephen J. Kronkowsky, 47, of 220 W. Poplar St., Shenandoah — false alarms to agencies of public safety, recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Jennifer Adams, 48, of 115 W. Coal St., Apt. 33, Shenandoah — defiant trespass.

Amy V. Wanalista, 38, of 30 St. Paul St., Shenandoah — obtaining or acquiring a controlled substance by misrepresentation, identity theft and possession of a controlled substance.

George E. Bachert, 41, of 138 E. Mahanoy Ave., Apt. D, Mahanoy City — prohibited offensive weapons, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Leslie A. Tapia, 31, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — simple assault.

George L. Barlow, 21, of 192 Virginia Ave., Shenandoah — possession of drug paraphernalia.

William W. Skeans Jr., 29, of 921 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City — driving an unregistered vehicle, failure to be licensed, driving without insurance, driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate and altered, forged or counterfeit documents and plates.

Jeffrey D. Vernitsky, 44, of 12 Sajer Road, Pottsville — prohibited offensive weapons and defiant trespass.

Luke J. Pennypacker, 37, of 200 Hobart St., Box 194, Gordon — prohibited offensive weapons.

David D. McBride, 31, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — terroristic threats, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Kathryn E. Moore, 28, of 1349 W. Market St., Pottsville — bad checks.

Angie L. Porter, 19, of 6 N. 11th St., Pottsville — retail theft and receiving stolen property.

Danielle M. Oswald, 43, of 924 W. Coal St., Shenandoah — retail theft.

Charles P. Hummel Jr., 26, of 245 Nichols St., Pottsville — defiant trespass.

Morgan N. Natale, 31, of 245 Nichols St., Pottsville — defiant trespass.

Kerri A. Cooper, 45, of 259 Ohio Ave., Shenandoah — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Carl J. Jeune, 31, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — theft, receiving stolen property and harassment.

Tanner A. Brake, 24, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Richard B. Stoltz III, 40, of 405 Hamilton St., Pottsville — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mary V. Leonard, 51, of 606 N. Eighth St., Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Derek P. Kroh, 36, of 318 Washington St., Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Trend A. Kopinetz, 21, of 33 Crestview Drive, Forest Hills, Pottsville — defiant trespass.

Edward J. Yarnell, 40, of 2275 W. Market St., Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Carol A. Evitts, 50, of 827 Fairview St., Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Janice A. Butler, 36, of 700 Mahantongo St., Apt. B, Pottsville — theft of leased property.

Kulvir Singh, 51, of 273 Louisa Ave., Pottsville — accidents involving damage to attended vehicles or property.

James L. Myers, 42, of 715 W. Norwegian St., Pottsville — retail theft and receiving stolen property.

Robert W. Weyman Jr., 36, of 437 Broad St., Hegins — theft by deception.

Marquese L. Whitted, 30, of 401 Village Road, Orwigsburg — possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a small amount of marijuana, stop and yield sign violations, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jeffrey S. Melochick, 41, of 68 Caroline Ave., Pottsville — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Anthony Valentine, 22, of 311 Penn St., Tamaqua — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, criminal use of a communications facility, possession of a controlled substance and failure to be licensed.

Raymond D. Trevorah, 43, of 155 Owl Creek Road, Tamaqua — unsworn falsification to authorities.

Michael M. Sedlock, 29, of 71 Bowe St., Tamaqua — criminal attempt to commit dealing in proceeds of illegal activities, criminal attempt to commit theft by deception, receiving stolen property and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Joseph F. Platts, 24, of 22 Chestnut St., Pottsville — retail theft and receiving stolen property.

Shannon H. Fredericks, 35, of 2236 Market St., Deer Lake — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communications facility.

Christina L. Kieffer, 29, of 56 Fifth St., Coaldale — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communications facility.

Daniel J. Keach, 26, of 228 W. Cottage Ave., Tamaqua — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of a small amount of marijuana.

William G. Manness Jr., 35, of State Correctional Institution/Camp Hill — simple assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Colin S. McGregor, 26, of 110 E. High St., Coaldale — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communications facility, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Tonya N. Braun, 25, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a counterfeit substance and criminal use of a communications facility.

Laura Redner, 33, of 317 Washington St., Tamaqua — conspiracy and criminal use of a communications facility.

Nikolas W. Taylor, 29, of 227 Lafayette St., Tamaqua — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and conspiracy.

Jason J. Dahm, 38, of SCI/Camp Hill — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and conspiracy.

Angelina A. Patton, 25, of 308 Washington St., Tamaqua — conspiracy, criminal use of a communications facility and possession of a controlled substance.

Dawn M. Hossler, 49, of 180 Municipal Road, Orwigsburg — retail theft.

Evan P. Marceau, 24, of 2617 Wynonah Drive, Auburn — conspiracy.

Heather L. Heckman, 25, of 613 Harrison St., Pottsville — defiant trespass.

James L. Colosimo Jr., 32, of 159 Weston Place, Shenandoah — aggravated assault, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Robert F. Moncrief Jr., 21, of 311 W. Lloyd St., Shenandoah — resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief and public drunkenness.

Michael J. Swartz, 62, of 1002 E. Railroad St., Mahanoy City — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Daniel J. Wylie, 46, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — theft, unauthorized use of automobiles and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Duane R. Allen II, 28, of 482 W. Frack St., Frackville — tampering with or fabricating physical evidence.

Christine Dymond, 36, of 222 Lower Railroad St., Girardville — bad checks.

Gavin M. Allen, 20, of 105 N. Reed St., Girardville — driving under the influence of drugs, driving at an unsafe speed, careless driving and criminal trespass.

David J. Whipple, 22, of 367 Preston Ave., Girardville — corruption of minors.

Edward J. Bielen III, 18, of 30 N. Manning St., McAdoo — possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Damian M. Lutz, 19, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — illegal possession or use of firearms, recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and underage drinking.

Charles L. Thatcher, 20, of 69 Second St., Coaldale — possession of drug paraphernalia.

Nathan T. Startzel, 22, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, conspiracy, criminal use of a communications facility and possession of a controlled substance.

Kassidy N. Bowers, 20, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — retail theft and simple trespass.

Rebecca J. Nugent, 31, of 14 Mary St., Pottsville — possession of a controlled substance.

Michael R. Donaldson, 34, of 39 S. Third St., Saint Clair — criminal trespass.

Thomas J. Sullivan, 42, of 319 S. Nicholas St., Saint Clair — criminal trespass.

Patrick J. Hill, 32, of 41 Silver Creek Road, New Philadelphia — conspiracy, criminal trespass, theft and receiving stolen property.

Benjamin J. Honaker, 31, of SCI/Mahanoy — possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kimberly A. Koles, 29, of 12 Main St., Kaska — DUI, DUI-high rate, driving on the wrong side of the road, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic, driving at an unsafe speed and careless driving.

SHENANDOAH — The Schuylkill Historical Fire Society has started a campaign to raise money to purchase a 7-foot by 7-foot 1892 photograph of members of Pottsville’s Humane Hose/Steam Fire Engine Company No. 1.

Society President Michael Kitsock said the large photograph was found recently hanging at a store, Woodstock Antiques, in Woodstock, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta.

He said the photograph contains photographs and names of former company members, one of which was a Civil War general, and others that were members of the famous Civil War unit called the 1st Defenders.

“Some of these men answered the call when President (Abraham) Lincoln called on men to help defend the capital,” Kitsock said.

“It’s time to bring the boys back home,” he said about bringing the framed photo back to Schuylkill County, where it can be displayed with honor at the society museum in Shenandoah.

With that in mind, Kitsock said, the group decided to call their fundraising campaign “Time to Bring the Boys Back Home.”

He said that the society received a letter from Susan Setcavage Kesler, Kennesaw, Georgia, a woman whose parents were from Mahanoy City and still has relatives living in Schuylkill County.

In the letter, Kesler said the large frame weighs about 400 pounds and had been hanging in a restaurant in Georgia for about 35 years.

“I would like nothing better than to see this framed picture back home where it belongs,” Kesler wrote.

Kitsock said society members and officers felt the same way, began investigating the picture and came to the conclusion it would cost about $5,000 to purchase it from the antique store and have it shipped back to Shenandoah.

The campaign includes a mailing appeal to the group’s 300 members asking for any financial assistance they can offer.

The society is also appealing to the firefighters, former firefighters, historians and the general public to help bring the picture back to Schuylkill County.

“We are appealing to anyone in Schuylkill County, or anyone for that matter who can assist us,” Kitsock said.

Kitsock said that by not making an effort to buy the picture and return it to Schuylkill County, it may go by the wayside or be sold to someone who does not understand its historical value to the Coal Region.

“That would be a chapter in history gone forever,” he said.

A little research done by Kitsock determined the picture was sold by the Humane Fire Company in the mid-1960s when it was forced to vacate its original building and move to another location.

At that time, Kitsock said, time was limited to empty the firehouse and the picture, along with many other items were auctioned off.

“From there we believe it went to Georgia and has been there ever since,” he said. “It’s now time for it to come home.”

Donations can be sent to the Schuylkill Historical Fire Society, 105 S. Jardin St., Shenandoah, PA 17976.

Anyone needing more information can call the society’s headquarters at 570-462-4400 or Kitsock at 570-617-2376.

Deeds

East Union Township — Wilmington Trust Co. to Fanny Pena Rosario; 33 E. Pine St., Sheppton; $18,000.

Gordon — Jeanette R. Alvord, by attorney in fact Sherry L. Ney, to Michelle L. Zaharick; 232 Biddle St.; $56,000.

North Union Township — Karen L. Michael to Richard P. Michael and Jeffrey C. Michael; property in Nuremberg; $1.

Richard P. Michael and Jeffrey C. Michael to Richard P. Michael and Jeffrey C. Michael; property on Mahanoy Street, Nuremberg; $1.

Marlene M. Judge to Lynne M. Finkel, Donna J. Buccino and William B. Judge Jr.; property in Nuremberg; $1.

Porter Township — Smith’s Insurance Agency Inc. to Thomas A. and Patricia K. Shuttlesworth; property on Main Street, Sheridan; $8,000.

Ringtown and Union Township — Catherine R. Fetterman to Joseph W. Skubel Jr.; 22 N. Sixth St.; $122,500.

Geisinger Medical Center, Danville

To James D’Agosta and Elizabeth Shappell, Berwick, a daughter, July 12. Grandparents are Walter Shappell and Allison Rubright, both of Saint Clair.

To Brad and Christina Corrigan Reed, Valley View, a son, July 16.

Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital

To Brandon and Samantha Dinger Pogash, Ashland, a son, Aug. 6.

Beau Brown believes Mount Laurel Cemetery will be a fine property for the right buyer.

“It’s an interesting situation,” Brown, an associate broker with Bennett Williams Commercial, York, said. “You never know who’s going to buy a property.”

The 5.89-acre cemetery, located at 115 Bulls Head Road in Norwegian Township, is for sale by its owner, Lance R. Haluska, Branchdale, who bought it in June 2013. More than 5,000 people are buried there.

Brown said several factors are important in marketing Mount Laurel, which has been on the market for approximately 45 days, or any other cemetery.

One is if there is a perpetual care account, money that would guarantee the ability to take care of the property, most importantly the graves, he said. Unfortunately, there is no such account for Mount Laurel, Brown said.

He said he would like to raise between $12,000 and $15,000 in order to establish such an account.

“We could have ... a fundraiser” to set up such an account, Brown said. “There are a lot of little things you can do.”

Another factor, he said, is if there is any room for additional burial lots.

“We believe there may be lots available,” but he is not certain, Brown said.

That leads to a third factor, having the records of how many lots there are and who is buried in the cemetery, he said.

“We need the original records,” Brown said.

He said he is trying to get those from Rabbi Harry S. Dombek, the cemetery’s former president, but has not been able to do so.

Brown said he appreciates the history of the property.

“There are Civil War vets in there,” he said.

He also said there is no reason to believe the cemetery will go unsold.

“I don’t believe this is impossible. I’ve had a lot of interest in it,” Brown said.”I’ve had a couple offers.”

Someone who has the time to care for the property, including churches or funeral homes, would be included in a list of possible buyers, according to Brown,

“We’re selling this as a business. It is geared toward a certain buyer,” he said.

Bank stages

clothing drive

ELIZABETHVILLE — The Elizabethville branch of Halifax Bank, 34 S. Market St., held a successful clothing drive July 29 to benefit Believe in Blessings Thrift Shop, a local nonprofit consignment shop.

Believe in Blessings, according to a bank press release, assists in rebuilding families and individuals by recycling, reusing, repurposing and redirecting the resources given to them.

The shop is located at 22 E. Main St., Elizabethville.

Tamie Laudenslager, the bank’s Elizabethville branch manager, said the branch employees “were behind this effort 100 percent. We all pitched in to make this happen.”

Econ development

Frackville topic

FRACKVILLE — The committee on downtown economic development will meet at 7 p.m. Aug. 22 in the Frackville Municipal and Community Center, 42 S. Center St., according to Paul Klevis, chairman.

The meeting, Klevis said in a release, will center on adopting the committee’s mission statement for the long-term development of the downtown business district, along with discussing the possibility of developing a comprehensive community survey on what residents believe is needed in Frackville’s downtown in terms of not only commercial business opportunities but also ideas centering on social and professional services and offices, including housing for moderate to above-average income families.

For more information, call Klevis at 570-874-3355.

Bank announces

hiring of new VP

HARRISBURG — First National Bank, the largest subsidiary of FNB Corp., announced the recent hiring of Bill Feist, senior vice president/business banking team leader in the bank’s Capital Region, which includes 17 counties in central and eastern Pennsylvania.

The bank has Schuylkill County branches in Shenandoah, Pottsville and McAdoo.

Feist, according to an FNB press release, leads a team of business bankers who “evaluate the needs of small- to mid-sized companies in the greater Harrisburg area and recommend the appropriate solutions that FNB offers.”

He has more than 20 years of banking experience in the Harrisburg area. Prior to joining FNB, Feist was vice president/commercial services relationship manager at F&M Trust in Mechanicsburg.

A resident of Etters, Feist earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Shippensburg University. He is a graduate of Central Atlantic Advanced School of Banking and Leadership, Harrisburg area, and is active in several community organizations, including director of the United Way of the Capital Region.

Health center

groundbreaking

HAZLETON — The Community Area New Development Organization — CAN DO — the Hazleton area’s industrial development agency, held a groundbreaking Aug. 11 for a new $10 million Coordinated Health outpatient surgical center at Humboldt Station at Route 924 and Interstate 81.

The site is near the Residence Inn and Sonic eatery at Humboldt Station.

Local, regional and state officials and dignitaries attended.

The Hazleton Wine & Beer Festival, featuring more than 50 local wines and craft beers, will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 27 at the Babe Ruth field in Hazle Township.

Giant/Martin’s

aids campaign

CARLISLE — Customers and employees at Giant Food Stores and Martin’s Food Markets donated $599,688 through the annual Children’s Miracle Network balloon campaign.

In Schuylkill County, there are Giant Food Stores in Pottsville and at the Cressona Mall.

“This year marks our 20th anniversary of supporting CMN,” Tom Lenkevich, Giant/Martin’s president, said in the release. “Together with our customers, associates and vendors we have raised more than $41 million to help provide brighter and healthier futures for thousands of children within our local communities.”

MAEA to stage

fall dinner dance

MCADOO — The Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association will have a 2016 Fall Festival Dinner Dance on Oct. 18 at Capriotti’s Catering.

The cost for MAEA members is $60, according to an event flier. Cocktails will be from 5 to 6 p.m. with a cash bar, dinner from 6 to 6:30 p.m. and dancing from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. with entertainment by a disc jockey. There will also be a photo booth.

During the event, MAEA will recognize Steve Redlich of Poly Plastic Products of Pennsylvania Inc. for “his dedication of 25 years of service on the MAEA board of directors,” organizers said in the flier.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and sponsors will be recognized during the dance.

For more information, call the Pottsville-based MAEA at 570-622-0992 or email to jtrosterud@nepamaea.com.

Chamber slate

remains busy

The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and SCORE will present Social Media Marketing, an educational series, with Alyse Mitten, SCORE counselor, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesday at the chamber/SEDCO conference center in Union Station, Pottsville. Other sessions will be held Sept. 8 on social media time-savers, Oct. 18 on Facebook promotions and Nov. 15 on growing business with email and social media. The cost is $10 per person per session for chamber members and $15 for nonmembers.

People may register for chamber events online at www.schuylkillchamber.com.

A business executive forum luncheon will be held Aug. 24 at The Lodge at Sharp Mountain, 201 S. 26th St., Pottsville, featuring Workforce Development with speakers from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the state Department of Education. Reservations are required.

The chamber’s fifth Wednesday Mix & Mingle will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 31 at Capriotti’s Catering, 1 Banks Ave., McAdoo. The event will include door prizes.

Schuylkill Chamber Night at the Reading Fightin’ Phils is Thursday versus the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Seating and an all-you-can-eat picnic area will open at 6 p.m. The game will start at 7:05 p.m., according to a chamber flier. For more information, call 800-755-1942 or register online at the chamber website.

In a new member benefit, the chamber has a Human Resources Helpline that offers “fast, personal help from real live HR professionals,” chamber officials said in the flier. The toll-free helpline is 844-318-0699.

The chamber is based at Union Station, 1 Progress Circle, Suite 201, Pottsville.

NEPA Alliance

to host trade event

The 17th annual Bringing the World to Northeastern Pennsylvania hosted by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance will be held Sept. 23 at The Woodlands Inn, Wilkes-Barre.

It is NEPA’s “premier international trade event,” according to an alliance press release.

Businesses from NEPA’s seven-county service area — Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Schuylkill and Wayne — are invited to attend and meet with Pennsylvania’s authorized trade representatives from Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Mexico, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

There is no cost to attend the gathering or to meet with the trade representatives; however, registration is required since there are limited meeting slots for each trade representative. Registration information can be found on NEPA’s website at www.nepa-alliance.org.

Businesses should direct questions about the event or NEPA’s international program by calling Deborah Phillips, international business manager, at 570-655-5581 or emailing her at dphillips@nepa-alliance.org.

Library gears up

for Pumpkin Fest

FRACKVILLE — The Frackville Free Public Library, 56 N. Lehigh Ave., is gearing up for the community’s annual Pumpkin Festival.

The festival, to be held Oct. 1, is sponsored by the Frackville Business and Professional Association.

In the library’s “Art of the Pumpkin” contest, participants will decorate wooden pumpkins for auction during the festival.

The prices for blank wooden pumpkins are as follows: Senior citizens and high school students in ninth through 12th grades, $5; individuals and families, $10.

All pumpkins are due at the library by Sept. 16.

To pick up a wooden pumpkin, stop at the library or call for more information at 570-874-3382.

Rail assistance

grants available

HARRISBURG — The state Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Rail Freight, Ports and Waterways has opened the application period for the 2016 Rail Transportation Assistance Program and the 2016 Rail Freight Assistance Program, according to an announcement by PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards.

“Rail freight continues to play a crucial role in offering connections that serve the business community and help build Pennsylvania’s economy,” Richards said in a press release. “Our grant programs reflect the commonwealth’s commitment to keep this mode of transportation vibrant and effective.”

In the last grant period, PennDOT awarded $36 million for 15 projects through RTAP and 16 projects through RFAP. RTAP is a capital budget grant program funded with bonds and RFAP is underwritten through the new Multimodal Fund, created by Act 89.

For eligible organizations wanting to apply for funding through either program, applications are available on the bureau’s website at www.dotgrants.state.pa.us/RailFreight for 30 days ending at 6 p.m. Aug. 30.

Program information can be found on the bureau’s website. Questions should be directed to Tom Stettler at tstettler@pa.gov (call 717-772-2637) or Steve Panko at stepanko@pa.gov (call 717-787-1202).

Leadership class

to begin in Sept.

The Schuylkill Executive Leadership Class of 2016 is set to begin in September and the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce has released the dates and session topics for the class.

Schuylkill Executive Leadership was developed in 2007 as a chamber initiative to expand and hone skills needed for career advancement, according to the release.

The class is “tailored to meet the needs of the individual in helping them with their professional development no matter what their profession. We are very proud of this worthwhile program that targets educating not only the leaders of your organization but the future leadership of Schuylkill County.”

Classes are held from 8 a.m. to noon in the Schuylkill Chamber Conference Center in Union Station, Pottsville. There will be a graduation lunch will be held at the conclusion of the program.

Tuition is $495 for the first person and $445 for each additional person from the same company. The class will be limited.

The fall 2016 schedule is as follows: Sept. 13, 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11 and 18.

For more information, email to mwalborn@schuylkillchamber.com.

Chamber seeks

awards nominees

HAZLETON — The Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for its 15th annual Business & Community Awards, which are given to recognize individuals and businesses that help to promote and support the greater Hazleton area, which includes East and North Union townships in Schuylkill County.

Nominations are being accepted for: Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Rocco Colangelo Sr. Volunteer of the Year, Pride of Place, Healthy Workplace of the Year, Green Business of the Year and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, according to a chamber press release.

A business or individual may be nominated for an award or they can nominate themselves. Once the nomination is received by the chamber, the nominee will be notified and asked to complete an official application. The applications will be reviewed and scored by a volunteer committee and all winners will be recognized at a special luncheon program, sponsored by Luzerne County Community College, to be held at 11:45 a.m. Oct. 27 at Genetti’s, Route 309, Hazleton.

Eligible applicants include chamber member businesses or concerns.

Call Leann Fallabel at the chamber at 570-455-1509 or email to lfallabel@hazletonchamber.org for an application. Completed applications must be received by Sept. 16.

Orwigsburg BPA

heralds agenda

ORWIGSBURG — The Orwigsburg Business and Professional Association will stage the 25th annual Orwigsburg heritage celebration from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 10 and the Festival of Lights is set for 4:30 p.m. Dec. 3.

The association can be reached via email at orwigsburgbusinesspa@gmail.com or by calling 570-617-7642.

SRC hosts

support groups

Schuylkill Rehabilitation Center, 300 Schuylkill Medical Plaza, Pottsville, hosts support groups that are free and open to all on a monthly basis.

Meetings include: Traumatic Brain Injury & Stroke Support Group, 12:30 p.m. Friday and Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 1 p.m. Aug. 26.

There will also be a free community lecture titled “Vocational Rehabilitation for People with Disabilities,” at noon Wednesday, presented by Lavinia Ritter, M.S., M.Ed., business service representative, and Wanda Smith, M.S., CRC, rehabilitation counselor from the Department of Labor & Industry Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. Participants will learn about the services available to assist people with disabilities to find employment.

For more information, call Kim Reed, administrative coordinator, at 570-621-5227.

Tamaqua chamber

sponsors concerts

TAMAQUA — The 10th year of the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce’s free summer concert series on Thursdays at the historic Tamaqua Train Station, 18 N. Railroad St., is underway.

Performances are held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays and those planning to attend are advised to bring lawn chairs.

People may also make dinner reservations at the train station restaurant by calling 570-668-3800.

The annual summer concert series is organized by chamber board member Jack Kulp and features a variety of musical entertainment.

BARNESVILLE — The first step was taken in Ryan Township in the past month to collect on 15 trash collection fee delinquents with more to follow.

The Ryan Township supervisors received a report on the collection effort from township solicitor Christopher Riedlinger at the Aug. 8 meeting. The topic of chronic delinquencies involving trash collection accounts has been a subject at township meetings for several months.

“The solicitor gave a report and we picked the people on the county’s upset sale list, which is 15 properties,” township Vice Chairman Clyde “Champ” Holman said. “He (Riedlinger) sent letters to all 15 people. Since that time, three people have paid enough taxes to get off the upset sale list and 12 of them have not.”

Holman said the liens that will be placed on most of those properties will include legal fees incurred by the township, which can be done due to the supervisors adopting an ordinance to provide that ability.

“The legal fees will not be put on a few properties until such time they respond (to the certified letters), but in the meantime we’ll still go after the 15,” Holman said. “Some will not have legal fees and some will, but we eventually go after legal fees for all.”

Holman said those properties listed on upset sales were chosen just to get the process started since it would not be possible to go after all delinquents at once. However, the process will continue with other delinquents.

“In order to proceed through this whole process, it would be $431 in additional costs (legal fees) to each one of these people,” Holman said. “That would be $400 for the attorney to do the legal work in filing the lien, plus $18 for filing fee and $13 for the satisfaction of the lien in the prothonotary’s office. Now they will get lien on their house, which will be problems for anybody if they go for a loan because they’ll have the lien on the house.”

Holman added, “We’ll then start with the next group of people who owe the most (more than $1,000) and then work our way down the list. Everybody will be sought after because it only fair to those who pay their bills, and the majority pay their bills.”

In a related action, the supervisors approved a procedure to not accept payment plans for anyone interested in paying up on delinquent accounts.

“The solicitor asked if we wanted to do a payment plan because some called and asked about it,” Holman said. “Supervisor (Franklin) Fetter said we’re not a bank and made the motion to not to do payment plans. If they want to do payment plans, they can go to a bank or a credit card and pay payment to them and not to us.”

In other business, complaints were made about a possible sewage leak between two properties on Chee Street. ARRO project manager William N. McMullen is continuing to monitor the situation to find from which property the leak is coming from. One of the properties recently had a septic tank replaced, and once it fills completely, McMullen will perform a dye test at the location to determine the source as advised by the state Department of Environmental Protection to find the source.

The supervisors approved two new alternate sewage enforcement officers. William Brior and Bruce Dobash will take over the duties from alternate Thomas Yashinsky. McMullen is the primary enforcement officer.

Weather permitting, the 2016 road program should be completed within a week. The road work along Chee Street is being done with equipment through Tropp Contracting Inc., Pottsville, and road materials purchased through the state’s COSTARS program.

“We’re hoping to save $10,000 on that project,” Holman said.

The supervisors approved the change of the township depository to Mauch Chunk Trust Company from M&T Bank. Holman said change will save more than $2,000 per year.

“The taxpayers save some money,” Holman said.

Holman said code enforcement officer McMullen will investigate new complaints about Park Crest property owner, Willis Garber, Mansure Road, and will refile charges for not cleaning up his property.

The singing and dancing continued as the 102nd annual Lithuanian Days wrapped up Sunday afternoon at the Schuylkill Mall.

Sponsored by the Knights of Lithuania Council 144, the two-day event is the longest-running consecutive ethnic festival in the United States.

The Gintaras Children’s Dance Group, Mahanoy City, and Malunas Dance Group, Baltimore, Maryland, both performed traditional Lithuanian dances Sunday afternoon. Jo Ann Kegolis Filiziani, who directed the children dancers, said the group Sunday consisted of six children ages 3 to 11.

“All the kids have Lithuanian heritage in their blood,” she said.

It was the 12th year the children’s group performed at the annual festival. They performed two dances Sunday called the “Kalvelis” and the “Klumpakaja.”

“It’s important to me because it is practicing our Lithuanian heritage,” she said. “It’s just a beautiful way to pass it on from generation to generation and it was how they celebrated.”

Cousins Taylor Walsh, 12, of Barnesville, and Callie Seisler, 11, of Lake Wynonah, have danced with the group for the last six years.

“It’s just really fun to do every year,” Walsh said.

The celebration was not just limited to Lithuanians. Carl Ecker, Mount Carmel, and Jill Greco, Marian Heights, said that despite not being Lithuanian, they have attended the festival for several years and were there both days over the weekend.

“It’s the best picnic food in the entire area,” Ecker said.

Ecker said they also like to support organizations like the Knights of Lithuania that provide scholarships. Greco said she also likes buying the Lithuanian pysanky eggs.

“It’s interesting to see the culture and the way they strive to maintain it,” Ecker said. “It is just impressive to us.”

Historical exhibits at the festival this year were dedicated to the history of the Lithuanian Song and Dance Festivals, Lithuanian churches in the area and Lithuanian Olympic athletes. Information was provided by the Lithuanian Research and Studies Center, Chicago.

This year, Lithuania has 66 athletes competing in 16 sports in the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As of Sunday afternoon, the country has won three medals, a silver and bronze in rowing and a bronze in weightlifting. But the country’s favorite sport is basketball.

A portion of the sports exhibit highlights some of the country’s best basketball players and among the many photographs of local Lithuanian churches is one of the 1964 eighth-grade girls team from St. Joseph Church, Mahanoy City, that won the Catholic Youth Organization championship.

Larry R. Misevicius, a representative of the Lithuanian Basketball Federation for North America, said he likes his home country’s chances of winning a medal this year.

“I think we have a great team that is going to end up with a medal in their hands,” he said.

The team boasts a few players currently playing for teams in the NBA, including Jonas Valanciunas of the Toronto Raptors and Domantas Sabonis, who was recently drafted to the Oklamana City Thunder. The team is 3-1 so far.

Misevicius said the country has five players currently in the NBA, noting that it is quite an accomplishment for a country with only 2 to 3 million people.

“A small country can only excel in one thing. Lithuanians are very tall and I think it is in their blood,” Misevicius said.

Lithuania won bronze medals in the 1992, 1996 and 2000 Olympics. Four of the five starters on the Soviet Union’s 1988 gold medal team were also Lithuanian. That team was led by Arvydas Sabonis, Domantas’ father. Arvydas Sabonis also played seven seasons for the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011.

Misevicius, who lives in Portland, named his son Sabonis.