A three-judge federal court panel has upheld the prison sentences of two former Schuylkill Products Inc. executives for participating in the largest fraud ever perpetrated under the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program, U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler announced Thursday.

In a 10-page opinion filed Wednesday, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel ruled Joseph W. Nagle, 55, of Deerfield Beach, Florida, and Ernest G. Fink Jr. 71, of Orwigsburg, received appropriate sentences of 84 months and 41 months, respectively.

“The District Court properly relied on (Nagle’s and Fink’s) net profits ... as the loss” to be used in calculating the appropriate sentence for each man, U.S. Circuit Judge Patty Shwartz wrote in the panel’s opinion.

As a result, Nagle and Fink will remain behind bars — the former at Federal Prison Camp/Pensacola, Florida, the latter at Federal Correctional Institution/Schuylkill — as mandated by Senior U.S. District Judge Sylvia H. Rambo’s sentences.

After a 19-day trial, a federal jury in Harrisburg convicted Nagle, Schuylkill Products’ former president and chief executive officer, on April 5, 2012, of 26 charges, including wire fraud, mail fraud, engaging in unlawful monetary transactions and conspiracy, resulting from his role in the scheme. Rambo sentenced Nagle on June 30, 2014, to serve 84 months in prison.

Fink, Schuylkill Products’ former chief operating officer, earlier pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and was sentenced by Rambo on July 14, 2014, to serve 51 months in prison.

Federal prosecutors charged Nagle, Fink and several other Schuylkill Products executives with using Marikina Engineers and Construction Corp., West Haven, Connecticut, as a front under the DBE program from 1993 until 2008 to funnel work to the Cressona company and its wholly owned subsidiary, CDS Engineers Inc.

Romeo P. Cruz, a Filipino-American, owned Marikina, enabling it to be classified as a DBE under federal law and making it eligible to obtain certain construction contracts, according to prosecutors. That, in turn, enabled Schuylkill Products and CDS Engineers to use Marikina as a front that let them do the actual construction work, prosecutors said.

Schuylkill Products manufactured concrete bridge beams and other suppliers’ products, while CDS Engineers installed them. Personnel from the two companies used Marikina passwords, signature stamps, business cards, letterheads and email addresses and covered their companies’ logos on trucks with Marikina magnetic placards and decals in efforts to conceal the fraud, prosecutors alleged.

Prosecutors said the scheme involved more than $136 million in government contracts in Pennsylvania alone and was the largest fraud in the history of the DBE program.

Northeast Prestressed Products LLC bought Schuylkill Products in April 2009 for $9.25 million and now operates from the same site on Route 901 in Cressona.

On Sept. 30, 2015, a different three-judge panel of the 3rd Circuit upheld Nagle’s and Fink’s convictions but ruled they must be resentenced. Rambo resentenced Nagle on Nov. 30, 2015, to the same prison term of 84 months and, on Feb. 24, resentenced Fink to 41 months.

In Wednesday’s opinion, Shwartz wrote that Nagle and Fink were incorrect in arguing that the loss calculated by prosecutors, which is a factor in determining the appropriate sentences, should be reduced by the total price of the contracts Schuylkill Products received.

Nagle and Fink had argued that since the contracts were fully performed, the loss should be zero.

However, Shwartz, wrote, that ignores the DBE program’s goal of promoting minority-owned businesses. The government did not receive the entire benefit of the bargain because Schuylkill Products, which never was a DBE, received the contracts and the profits, according to Shwartz.

Because of that, the net profits received by the defendants, who owned Schuylkill Products, were the appropriate measure of the government’s loss, Shwartz wrote.

The new sentences Rambo imposed took into account the net profits Nagle and Fink received and, therefore, are legal and appropriate, Shwartz wrote.

Additionally, the panel rejected Fink’s request that his sentenced be reduced because of his age, ruling that Rambo considered and rejected that request for reasons that are supported by the record.

Senior U.S. Circuit Judges Robert E. Cowen and Jane R. Roth, the other panel members, joined in Shwartz’s opinion.

A few years ago, Mariann T. Young, Pottsville, learned to make jewelry out of seed beads and Swarovski-brand crystals.

Now, Young is working to turn her hobby into a business, and for guidance, she recently enrolled in the first Lion Launch program at Penn State Schuylkill, an effort to inspire entrepreneurs of all ages.

“What I’ve found, in just the couple weeks we’ve been into it already, is a treasure-full of information. It gives you a lot of information about starting your own business. I’m hoping that when I retire it will be a little something for me to pursue. I go to craft shows and I have a little following. And I do enjoy it,” Young, 59, a staff assistant at Penn State Schuylkill, said Monday.

“Lion Launch is open to anyone over 18, including faculty and staff and students and anyone from the public,” Laura E. Hoppes, the Lion Launch coordinator, said.

Two years ago, the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and Penn State Schuylkill introduced an program to inspire middle school and high school students to become entrepreneurs. Now in its third year, it’s called the Schuylkill Young Entrepreneurs Academy — YEA!

This year, Penn State Schuylkill had the opportunity to develop a similar program for adults.

In January 2015, Penn State University started a program called Invent Penn State to encourage entrepreneurial endeavors. Penn State President Eric Barron came up with the concept.

“Invent Penn State is a commonwealthwide initiative that blends entrepreneurship-focused academic programs, business startup training and incubation, funding, and key regional partnerships together for the benefit of Pennsylvania and beyond,” according to the Penn State website at news.psu.edu.

Penn State gave $50,000 grants to six Penn State campuses for programs.

“Penn State Abington, Behrend, Harrisburg, Lehigh Valley, New Kensington and Wilkes-Barre submitted winning proposals to receive $50,000 in seed funding,” according to the site.

In June, Penn State gave $50,000 grants to six more campuses: Penn State Altoona, Penn State Berks, Penn State Grant Valley, Penn State Schuylkill, Penn State Shenango and Penn State York.

The program developed by Penn State Schuylkill is called Lion Launch. And in September, Penn State Schuylkill hired Hoppes,Pottsville — a part-time GED Instructor for Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 — as the part-time Lion Launch coordinator.

The cost to enroll is $100 per participant and 16 signed up.

It’s a three-phase program:

• Phase One is a 10-week business boot camp that started Nov. 2. Participants meet once a week at Penn State Schuylkill to hear guest speakers and experts from the fields of accounting, human resources, law, marketing and social media, Hoppes said.

On Wednesday, J. Russell Hoke, a mentor with Berks and Schuylkill County SCORE, gave a presentation on marketing.

• Phase Two will include a business plan competition in front of a panel of judges and experts comprised of Lion Launch Community Partners.

“These organizations include members of Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, Pottsville Area Development Corp., Schuylkill Economic Development Corp., Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association, Schuylkill Vision, Berks-Schuylkill SCORE and Invent Penn State. Seed funding will be awarded to business plan competition winners for various initial startup costs,” Hoppes said.

• Phase Three will consist of offering office space in an incubator-type format for entrepreneurs to utilize for six months. The location for the office space is still being determined, Hoppes said.

Lion Launch is still seeking volunteers to be members of a Lion Launch advisory council and mentors to participants. Interested persons can contact Hoppes at 570-385-6065 or leh37@psu.edu.

Deeds

Butler Township — Joseph A. Vebrosky and Anthony J. Vebrosky to Michael and Maria Rozew; 818 W. Pine St.; $21,000.

Cressona — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Midfirst Bank; 81 Railroad St.; $1,166.86.

Frackville — Mary Garraway to Ronald and Diana Hartz; property on Chestnut Street; $18,000.

William C. Patrick to Ronald and Diana Hartz; property at Second and Chestnut streets; $15,000.

Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Federal National Mortgage Association; 116 W. Pine St.; $1,205.06.

Hegins Township — Sean P. and Heather M. Lupole to Sean P. and Heather M. Lupole; 505 W. Maple St., Valley View; $1.

Mahanoy Township — Kathleen E. Procopio, individually and as attorney in fact for Joseph Procopio, to John Paul Hruniuk and John Ross Hruniuk; property on Centre Street; $40,000.

North Manheim Township — Joseph M. and Donna M. Gavaletz to Joel M. Gavaletz and Jenna M. Gavaletz; 5 Sajer Road, Seiders Hill; $1.

Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Bank of America NA; 1034 Woodland Drive; $1,251.55.

Norwegian Township — LSF8 Master Participation Trust to William F. Shook III; 524 Park Meadow Drive; $149,900.

Orwigsburg — Estate of Raymond Henry Cairnes to Carol A. Waugh; 310 Eisenhower Drive; $174,900.

Port Carbon — Eva B. Stanus, by attorney in fact Gerard Stanus, to Mary Ann E. and Vince F. Kane; .0093-acre property; $1.

Mary Ann E. and Vince F. Kane to Mary Ann E. and Vince F. Kane; 326 Oak St.; $1.

Eva Stanus, by attorney in fact Gerard Stanus, to Eva Stanus, by attorney in fact Gerard Stanus; property on Oak Street; $1.

Pottsville — Roger A. Jr. and Jennifer L. Heming to Edward J. and Kelly Ann Ebling; 726 N. 13th St.; $126,000.

Joseph P. Muldowney to Gregory C. and Elizabeth A. Gray; 0.05-acre property; $1,600.

Reilly Township — Edward H. Smith and Michael J. Smith to Denise Titus; 5 Stone Row, Branchdale; $11,500.

Blackstone Funding LLC and Watermelon Realty LLC to Myron E. and Linda M. Schrack; two properties in Branchdale; $150,000.

Rush Township — Christy Anna Klatka to Kaitlyn E. Keich; 30 Frankford Ave., Hometown; $127,500.

Saint Clair — Mary E. Frantz, by attorneys in fact Joseph Frantz Jr. and James Frantz, to Edward D. Barket Sr. and Edward D. Barket Jr.; property on Third Street; $20,000.

Schuylkill Haven — Francesco Colonna, executor of the Estate of Frank C. Manganiello, and Frankie Manganiello to Krull Holdings Inc.; 115 Center Ave.; $9,000.

Shenandoah — Eloy Martinez to Robert Jr. and Victoria J. Dachiu; 433 Furnace St., Turkey Run; $5,000.

South Manheim Township — Mark and Kelly Gift to Mark and Kelly Gift; Lots 2237 and 2238, Tonto Drive, lake Wynonah; $1.

Tamaqua — Tonia D. and Robert Barron to Rached Francis; 26 N. Greenwood St.; $15,000.

Deutsche Bank National Trust Co. to Samuel Adam Ciallella; 127 Orwigsburg St.; $4,500.

Wayne Township — Christopher Brauer to Robert Block; Lot 876, Lake Wynonah; $1,000.

West Mahanoy Township — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to JPMorgan Chase Bank NA; 133 S. Spencer St., Altamont; $8,000.

Loretta Beninsky to Samantha M. Daubenspeck; 122 Swatara Road, Shenandoah Heights; $32,500.

David A. Plachko

PORT CARBON — A 21-year-old man charged in connection with an assault at his Blythe Township home on Sept. 10 waived his right to a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko.

Timothy Lee Vidal, 113 Coal St., Box 41, Cumbola, was arrested by state police Trooper Brian Walters of the Frackville station and charged with two counts of simple assault and one count of harassment. By waiving his right to a hearing, Vidal will now have to answer to all three charges against him in Schuylkill County Court.

Walters said he was called to the Vidal home for a report of a domestic incident and spoke to Ashley Vidal, who said she became involved in an argument with Timothy Vidal during which he began to scream and then shoved her and eventually threw her to the floor.

The woman said that Vidal then got on top of her and began to repeatedly hit her in the rib and chest area with his elbows, hit her in the head and told her he was going to kill her and take their children, Walters said.

Other court cases included:

Gianfranco Dovidio, 28, of 15 W. Franklin St., Saint Clair — withdrawn: knowingly manufacturing or distributing a designer drug. Waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia, false identification to law enforcement, public drunkenness and disorderly conduct.

Skyler D. Rinker, 21, of 1107 Arch St., Ashland — waived for court: DUI, DUI-highest rate, disregard for single traffic lane, driving at an unsafe speed and careless driving.

Joseph A. Sorokach, 41, of 126 Centre Ave., Schuylkill Haven — waived for court: DUI, disregard for single traffic lane and careless driving.

Brooke Ann Neidlinger, 18, of 615 Hillcroft Ave., Schuylkill Haven — waived for court: retail theft.

Rebecca J. Nugent, 31, of 14 Mary St., Pottsville — held for court: retail theft.

Damian L. Watson, 22, of 12 S. Front St., Minersville — waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of firearms prohibited, receiving stolen property, possessing instruments of crime, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Steven A. Lorah, 31, of 213A Laurel St., Minersville — waived for court: DUI, DUI-high rate, disregard for single traffic lane and careless driving.

Wayne T. Lenosky, 35, of 139 Main St., Seltzer — waived for court: receiving stolen property.

Angela L. Vidal, 48, of 557 S. Centre St., Pottsville — waived for court: theft and receiving stolen property.

Jennifer L. Yost, 39, of 26 Fritz Reed Ave., Schuylkill Haven — waived for court: retail theft.

Hunter Lee Hall, 21, of 49 N. Third St., Saint Clair — waived for court: resisting arrest, aggravated assault, criminal trespass, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

James R. Kintzer, 58, of 123 Water St., Apt. A, New Philadelphia — waived for court: DUI, DUI-high rate and careless driving.

Gary J. Schrepple II, 28, of 543 Back Road, Barnesville — waived for court: retail theft.

Buddy C. Noel, 37, of 609 E. Market St., Pottsville — waived for court: retail theft.

n Ashland: The Ashland Public Library will hold its Christmas storyhours from 10 to 11 a.m. Dec. 9 and 16 for children ages 3 to 5. To register, call the library at 570-875-3175.

n Ashland: The Ashland Area Historical Preservation Society will sponsor an Old-Fashioned Christmas from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 10 at the society quarters, 318 Center St., and the Station House, 501 Chestnut St. All are welcome, there is no admission fee. For more information, call 570-590-9985.

n Ashland: The Ashland Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorials and donations: For Irene M. Kaufman from United Steel Workers of America Local 14372 (Ashland Foundry and Machine Works), Jim, Michelle, Mitch and Reece Lavelle; for Theresa Rowland from Margaret Mary Brown. The library also acknowledged an audio book purchased in memory of Charles Remaley Jr. from Louis and Ruth Swatski. Donations for the library’s annual fund drive are still being accepted.

n Frackville: Without A Cure Productions will present “A Dickens of a Murder” on Dec. 10 at the Elks Lodge 1533, South Third Street. The event will be a murder mystery and buffet-style dinner catered by Roman’s Lounge and Catering. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the meal will begin at 6 p.m. followed by the show at 7 p.m. The cost is $35 per ticket, advance-sale-only. A cash bar will be available. For more information, call 570-874-2500.

n Lansford: The Lansford Historical Society and Panther Valley Public Library will have their annual free Christmas musical program and open house at 6 p.m. Sunday at the historical society building, 117 E. Bertsch St. The free musical program presented by the historical society is open to the public and will feature Shenandoah native Leilani Chesonis, who “has become a favorite in Lansford and always provides an entertaining and enjoyable evening of holiday music …” organizers said in the release. Holiday cookies, baked goods and refreshments will be provided after the musical program by the Panther Valley Public Library. After the program, people are welcome to spend time browsing the growing collections in the Lansford Historical Society Museum including new additions this year such as items salvaged from the Palace Theater, the cornerstone from St. Ann Church and an expanded collection of Coaldale history items including trophies from the old Coaldale High School. People may also tour the Panther Valley Public Library on the lower level to see what it has to offer.

n Pine Grove: Christmas at the Clubhouse at Sweet Arrow Lake County Park will again feature the M&J Jazz Combo at 2 p.m. Saturday. The program is free and open to the public, made possible with the help of a grant from the Schuylkill Area Community Foundation. Light refreshments will be served in front of the fire. For directions or questions, call 570-345-8952 and leave a message.

n Pottsville: The Gabriel Youth Orchestra’s 25th anniversary concert, sponsored by the Gabriel Chamber Ensemble, will be held at 3 p.m. Dec. 18 in the Pottsville Area School District’s D.H.H. Lengel Middle School Auditorium, 1541 W. Laurel Blvd. General admission is $5. John F. Potlunas will be the conductor and there will be a special appearance by the youth orchestra alumni, with first conductor Dawn King Krown and current associate music director Matt Tenaglia.

n Pottsville: Gary MacCready and Leilani Chesonis will be featured in “Songs of Love and Christmas” at 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Majestic Theater, North Centre Street in downtown Pottsville. MacCready will be accompanied by pianist Louise Baumgardner. Chelsea Smarr will be a special guest playing harp. Tickets are $10 each. For tickets or more information, call 570-628-4647 or go online to www.majestictheater.net.

A Saint Clair woman is headed to state prison after being sentenced Tuesday in Schuylkill County Court.

Flora Ptaszkowski, 34, must serve nine to 36 months in a state correctional institution, Judge John E. Domalakes ruled.

Domalakes imposed the sentence, which had been recommended by prosecutors, after revoking Ptaszkowski’s probation, which the defendant admitted violating by failing to report to her supervising officer, failing drug tests, possessing drug paraphernalia and not making payments on her costs and fees.

“I believe she has not responded positively” to the county’s programs, Domalakes said of Ptaszkowski, who sat through Tuesday’s hearing wearing handcuffs, leg shackles and a prison jumpsuit.

Ptaszkowski originally pleaded guilty on May 29, 2013, to access device fraud and theft, with prosecutors withdrawing a charge of receiving stolen property. At that time, Domalakes placed her on probation for three years, and also sentenced her to pay costs and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Saint Clair police had charged Ptaszkowski with committing the theft on Sept. 22, 2012, in the borough.

Ptaszkowski asked Domalakes for a county sentence instead of a state one.

“I’ll do the right thing now. I definitely learned my lesson,” Ptaszkowski told Domalakes on Tuesday.

Also on Tuesday, Domalakes revoked the probation of Kelly Foran, 44, of Saint Clair, and sentenced her to serve three to 23 months on house arrest with electronic monitoring. He made the sentence effective on Dec. 13, and also ordered Foran to have no contact with the victim.

Foran originally pleaded guilty on Sept. 7 to retail theft. At that time, Domalakes placed her on probation for 12 months, and also sentenced her to pay costs and a $50 CJEA payment.

Saint Clair police had charged Foran with committing the theft on March 13 in the borough.

Domalakes revoked Foran’s probation after the defendant admitted violating it by committing a new crime.

“When you take things and don’t pay for them, you’re hurting all the rest of us,” Domalakes told Foran.

SHENANDOAH — A borough woman charged by Shenandoah police in two cases, one for burglary and the other for forgery and theft, waived her right to a preliminary hearings Thursday morning.

Crystal Blackwell, 30, of 200 Pioneer Road, was scheduled to appear before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker but by waiving her right to hearings, will now have to answer to all of the charges against her in Schuylkill County Court.

Patrolman Joshua Pastucka charged Blackwell with burglary, criminal trespass, simple assault, defiant trespass and harassment in connection with an incident at a Pioneer Road home on Sept. 4.

Pastucka said Blackwell went to 208 Pioneer Road and assaulted Samantha Krawczyk, causing injuries to her face and abdominal area.

Arriving at that location, Patrolman David Stamets said he spoke to Blackwell, who admitted to the assault saying “I did do it, I did hit her, I’m not going to lie,” but said that Krawczyk came after her first.

In the second case against her, Blackwell was charged by Pastucka and Stamets with one felony count each of forgery, theft, theft by deception and receiving stolen property, 30 felony counts each of identity theft and access device fraud, and 30 misdemeanor counts of unauthorized use of a credit card.

Pastucka and Stamets charged Blackwell with stealing a debit card and $60 from a purse owned by Dawn Strong while she was at the Strong home at 442 Furnace St. sometime Sept. 2 or 3.

The investigation determined that Blackwell not only spent the $60 in cash but used the debit card 30 times for purchases totaling $2,390.48, the officers said.

After waiving her right to hearings on the charges, Blackwell was returned to Schuylkill County Prison to await further court action.

Toys donated by others are slowly filling the gym of the Foursquare Gospel Church at 2300 Mahantongo St. in Pottsville.

Stuffed animals, Play-Doh, darts, a telescope, dolls and small toy vehicles were among the items being donated Monday.

“Sometimes it’s hard to walk even in between,” Amber Deaven, youth worker and employee of the Salvation Army, said Monday.

Monday was the first day the gym was open to collect the toys that will be distributed to less fortunate children during Christmas.

“We will be working here pretty much every day until distribution,” Deaven said.

The toys collected will be given to children during the Christmas distribution from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 19 and 20 at the church. Countywide distribution is Dec. 19. Those receiving the gifts will have an assigned time to show up. Infants and children up to 12 can receive gifts.

The toys are collected during the Toys for Tots campaign that runs until Dec. 9. There are 150 donation boxes in various locations in the county including Wal-Mart in Saint Clair, the Schuylkill County Courthouse and the Fairlane Village and Cressona malls, and Boscov’s.

People can also donate by selecting an Angel Tree at different locations around the county. Specific gifts are requested for those children. Those donations should be dropped off by Dec. 15.

“Every time you donate, it does help out a child. It’s a blessing for those families,” Deaven said.

Capt. Kevin Polito of the Salvation Army said he is grateful for the use of the gym by the church.

“We love giving back into the community. There are so many needy people,” pastor Dave Poissant said.

Volunteers are still needed to sort toys. For more information to volunteer, call the Salvation Army at 570-622-5252.

This past weekend I was recovering from Thanksgiving, getting out my Christmas decorations, cleaning, listening to Christmas carols, decking the halls and stuffing myself with the reheated remains of our Thanksgiving repast, when it occurred to me that I’d better take a half hour and go over December’s calendar. And I’m glad I did!

Between working, shopping, baking, wrapping and holiday events and gatherings, I’m going to need to burn the midnight oil this month. And I’m betting many of you are too!

Traditional celebrations abound in Schuylkill County throughout December and I am so glad they do. These celebrations give us an opportunity to connect to and support our community.

Beginning today and running through Sunday, the Spirit of the Holidays Arts and Cultural Tour is designed for you to experience the holidays with Pennsylvania artisans, cozy shopping in the county and entertainment.

The tour is self-guided and encompasses Mud & Maker in Pottsville, Walk In Art Center and The Arts Barn in Schuylkill Haven and The Art & Craft Gallery in Hamburg. The Schuylkill County Council for the Arts will once again host Christkindlmarkt on Saturday and Sunday, providing you with unique and excellent shopping in a traditional German Christmas environment.

As always, Schuylkill Choral Society will delight us with its annual holiday concert on Saturday at United Presbyterian Church in Pottsville and on Sunday at Schuylkill Haven Area High School. This year’s concert, “A Hawaiian Christmas,” promises to get you in the holiday spirit if you’re not already feeling it.

Orwigsburg’s Festival of Lights kicks off at 4:30 Saturday in the square with music, kids cookie decorating, Christmas carol sing-a-longs and carriage rides with Santa! The Pottsville Lions Club will have its free Christmas movie at the Majestic Theater on Dec. 16, complete with free popcorn, candy treat and a visit from Santa. “Tom as Garth, A Country Christmas,” will also be at the Majestic Theater on Dec. 23.

Hope Hill Lavender Farm’s holiday open house, complete with live music, refreshments and luxury lavender beauty items that make special gifts, is on Dec. 10.

It wouldn’t be the holidays if I wasn’t talking about shopping, now would it? After all, gifts are a traditional expression of love this time of year and it’s my job to urge you to explore the many creative local choices we have at our disposal.

Perhaps luxurious high quality lavender products from Hope Hill Lavender Farm are in order? A membership to the Schuylkill County Historical Society or Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, for an individual or a family, is a welcome stocking stuffer.

Maybe someone you love needs a beautiful work of art from Mud & Maker, The Arts Barn or Walk In Art Center? Or better yet, art lessons may be the perfect gift for that hard to buy for loved one.

Perhaps a one-of-a-kind gift from Tink’s Antiques or Hidden Treasures will make a loved one smile? A gift certificate for Pristine Green Cleaning or Bee Hive Hair Salon is sure to make someone smile! How about tickets to a Gabriel Chamber Ensemble concert? There’s no limit to the unique gift choices locally available.

And shopping locally is more than just convenient. When you shop in your downtown communities you put revenue back into your community. Studies show that for every $100 spent at a chain store, a mere $13 circulates back into the community. Conversely, the same $100 spent at a hometown business circulates $45 back into the community. Unique high quality gifts that benefit our communities and way of life; there’s no better way to give!

Now you or your loved ones might prefer something a little more traditional but rest assured, you can shop a slew of county retailers for a host of festive gifts including: Framing Mad, Forget-Me-Not Florist, Healthy Habits Natural Market, Lessie’s Garden & Gift Shop, Peace Frog, Ellen’s Gourmet Baskets, The Crafty Fly Gift Shoppe, Schaeffer’s Harley-Davidson, Somewhere in Time Sports Collectibles, Kowalonek’s Kielbasy Shop, C&C Candies, Momma Millie’s Bakery and Pine Creek Country Gardens.

I can’t forget our seven fabulous wineries for gifts either: Benigna’s Creek, Red Shale Ridge, Galen Glen, Blue Lizard, Stone Mountain, Long Trout and Fieldwood. There’s also a ton of great restaurants that offer gift certificates too but alas, I’m running out of time and space. (Personally, I love restaurant gift certificates and find them especially useful when I’m too tired or too busy to cook.)

For more information on gift ideas and great holiday events, go to www.schuylkill.org or give us a call at 570-622-7700. From all of us here at the Schuylkill County Visitors Bureau, have a happy and blessed holiday season!

(Gargano is executive director of Schuylkill County Visitors Bureau)

1 dead in Rt. 183

1-vehicle crash

BERNVILLE — One person died in a crash on Route 183, about a half mile north of Bright School Lane in Penn Township, Berks County, about 4:45 a.m. Thursday.

State police at Hamburg said the driver of a 2007 Audi Q7 was traveling south on Route 183, went into the oncoming lane and passed a tractor-trailer while following a left curve.

Police said the driver abruptly swerved back into the southbound lane as oncoming traffic approached but lost control causing the vehicle to begin to go sideways. The vehicle went off the west side of the road, down an embankment and struck several trees, causing it to become airborne.

Police said the driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was partially ejected and became trapped under the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The name of the victim is being withheld until family members are notified, police said.

Assisting at the scene were Schuylkill Valley EMS. Bernville and Mount Pleasant firefighters and the Berks County Coroner’s office.

Police are asking that witnesses or anyone with information about the crash to contact Trooper Eric Beretsky at 610-562-6885 and refer to incident PA16-928800.

Coroner: Man’s

death accidental

GIRARDVILLE — The death of a 58-year-old borough man found inside his home on Nov. 25 appears to be “an accidental asphyxiation,” Dr. David J. Moylan III, the Schuylkill County coroner, said Thursday.

“There’s no person of interest. This is an accidental death,” Moylan said.

Investigators converged on the home at 112 N. John St., Girardville, about 3 p.m. Nov. 25 after the man, identified as James Fetterolf, was found deceased inside.

Fetterolf was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:15 p.m. that day by a Schuylkill County deputy coroner.

A forensic autopsy was conducted 8 p.m. Tuesday by Dr. Neil A. Hoffman, a pathologist, at Reading Hospital, West Reading, Berks County. Moylan said he was present.

“The preliminary conclusion is it was an accidental death. We’re still waiting for the final toxicology report, which we do routinely in such cases,” Moylan said.

State police are still investigating. State police Trooper Joseph Hall and state police Cpl. David Dupree, head of the Forensic Services Unit based at Troop L, Reading, are among those working on the case.

Man charged

in copper theft

A 28-year-old Schuylkill Haven man was charged by Pottsville police after officers were called about 5:30 a.m. Tuesday for a report of a burglary at the Comcast office property, 2323 West End Ave.

At the scene, officers learned that an employee arrived at the scene a short time earlier and found a suspicious dark blue station wagon parked on the property. That employee also identified a former employee — Heath Austin Dougherty — as being in the area at the same time, police said.

During a subsequent search of the property, it was discovered that a combination lock had been tampered with and two storage sheds were found with doors to be ajar.

Then, about 3:55 a.m. Wednesday, police said that while on patrol in the area of the Comcast building, Cpl. Renee Truscott encountered a vehicle matching the description of the suspicious vehicle provided by the witness the previous morning.

Truscott observed the vehicle attempt to quickly leave the area when the man driving, later identified as Dougherty, saw the marked police car.

Dougherty drove onto West Market Street in front of a passing truck, nearly causing a collision, and was then stopped resulting in evidence of state Vehicle Code violations.

After the completion of the vehicle stop, police said, Dougherty was taken to City Hall and questioned about his actions on this date and the previous morning.

During the interview, conducted by Truscott and Patrolman Joseph Krammes, Dougherty admitted that he entered the separately secured gated area of the Comcast property and removed approximately two or three pounds of scrap copper wire from three bins, police said.

Additionally, Dougherty identified another man who was with him at the time and informed police the stolen property was inside his residence in Schuylkill Haven. Pottsville investigators were later able to recover the stolen property from the residence and based on the investigation. Truscott charged Dougherty with felony burglary, felony criminal trespass and misdemeanor offenses of theft and receiving stolen property.

Dougherty was arraigned Wednesday by Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley, Pottsville, and committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post 10 percent of $25,000 bail, police said.

Police investigate

1-vehicle accident

Pottsville police investigated a crash that occurred about 6:20 a.m. Tuesday at the intersection of Gordon Nagle Trail and West Market Street.

Police said their investigation determined that Skyler Shistle, 22, of Pottsville, was traveling northbound on the Gordon Nagle Trail when he lost control of his 2016 Dodge Ram Truck and struck the light pole at the south east corner of the intersection, causing disabling damage to his vehicle.

There were no reported injuries.

Shistle refused evaluation by Pottsville EMS on scene and was then transported by police for a blood alcohol test, police said, adding that pending the lab testing results the appropriate charges will be filed.

Ga. man injured

in I-78 accident

HAMBURG — A Georgia man suffered minor injuries when the 2015 Kenworth truck he was driving crashed about 9:55 p.m. Wednesday in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 78, at mile marker 35.8 in Greenwich Township, Berks County.

State police at Hamburg said Francis J. Nolan Jr., 52, of Canton, was driving east in the right lane when the trailer of his vehicle started to jackknife causing him to lose control. The truck swerved across both lanes and struck the center median before coming to a stop in the left lane facing east.

Police said Canton suffered minor injuries while his passenger, Byron S. Mills, 48, of Franklin, Ga., was not hurt.

As a result of the crash, police said, Nolan will be cited for not driving on roadways laned for traffic.

Police: Woman

stole clothing

State police investigated an alleged theft that occurred about 7 p.m. Tuesday at Boscov’s, Fairlane Village mall, Pottsville.

Police said that Justine Villanueva, Minersville, was seen placing a number of clothing items on her person and exited the store without paying.

Villanueva will now have to answer retail theft charges in the courtroom of David A. Plachko, Port Carbon.

HARRISBURG — Former state Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane’s criminal conviction removes the need for any impeachment proceeding against her, Republican lawmakers on a special House subcommittee said in a report released Thursday.

The panel was formed last year to investigate whether Kane’s misconduct while in office warrants impeachment by the Legislature.

Kane, a Scranton native, resigned in August after her conviction on nine criminal counts in Montgomery County Court for leaking grand jury information to a reporter and lying about it to another grand jury. She was sentenced to 10 to 23 months in prison, but remains free while appealing the case.

Four GOP panel members, including Rep. Tarah Toohil, R-116, Butler Township, suggested the evidence concerning Kane meets the definition of “misbehavior in office” needed for impeachment. Misbehavior is broad term going beyond criminal conduct, they added.

The lawmakers decided that Kane’s conviction and resignation accomplishes the same objectives of an impeachment. Impeachment would lead to her removal from office and a ban on her holding any other public office in Pennsylvania.

None of the Democratic panel members signed the report.

“It would not be prudent at the present time to expend taxpayer funds for future impeachment proceedings,” wrote panel chairman Rep. Todd Stephens, R-151, North Wales. “If Attorney General Kane would become eligible to serve in a position of public trust due to a change of circumstances, impeachment proceedings may well be appropriate.”

The panel heard testimony from witnesses who were afraid they would face retribution for simply doing their jobs, Stephens said.

The report said Kane managed the attorney general’s office through “fear and intimidation” and engaged in conduct that led to the suspension of her law license.

Kane allowed Patrick Reese, Dunmore, head of her security detail, to remain employed after a criminal conviction, thereby refusing to follow well-established agency policy, the report said.

Reese was convicted earlier this year for illegally looking at emails to check on a grand jury probe of Kane. He was fired from his job as a supervisory special agent following Kane’s resignation.

Noting “serious deficiencies” in current law, the report recommends legislation or action to:

• Require the attorney general to possess a valid law license at all times.

• Provide for greater legislative oversight over government agencies to investigate wrongdoing.

• Provide greater protections for whistle blowers.

• Review grand jury secrecy rules to prevent someone from using it as a shield to prevent accountability.

VALLEY VIEW — December’s issue of Pennsylvania Game News features a Schuylkill County family — the Millers — on its cover.

Millersburg native artist Dana Bellis captured the family in a hunting scene for his sixth Game News cover, titled “Deer Camp Memories.”

Bellis thought it would be fun to use his father-in-law, Ken Miller; Ken’s dad, Jim; and Ken’s brothers, Glenn, Barry and Darryl, in the scene. They had often talked about their camp in Potter County and shared stories about buck season. Bellis asked them to “model” and they were happy to oblige, as they were very familiar with the magazine.

“He did promise me he’d put Fords in there, and he did,” Darryl, owner and president of Palmer H. Reed Motor Sales, said Wednesday at his Valley View dealership while looking at the cover. He plans to hang a print of Bellis’ painting at the front lobby of his business.

“Everybody’s been telling me that I was the easiest to recognize,” Darryl said.

From left to right, the acrylic painting shows Barry Miller, Valley View; his father, Jim, Hegins; and Barry’s brothers, Darryl, Valley View; Glenn, Berwick; and Ken, Gratz. It appears Barry, who has an orange cap in his hand, made a successful hunt. The painting depicts one buck in the back of a Ford pickup truck, and another hunter’s bounty hanging in the background, while the family reminisces about the day’s hunt.

“I work as much detail into the trees as the faces,” the artist said.

“I had to come up with how I was going to stage the scene, and keep the eye flowing through the painting and keep visual interest,” Bellis said.

In the spring, the group assembled for their photo shoot on Darryl’s property outside of Sacramento.

In preparation for the shoot, they scoured their closets and friends’ closets so authentic 1960s style Woolrich hunting clothing could be used in the scene. Not having an old pickup required for the composition, they all stood around a John Deere side by side that Darryl had on the farm. The artist painted in the old Ford pickup and deer.

“The set up was with everyone leaning over the vehicle. It was actually done at my farm. We dressed up in all retro outfits. Back then, they had the green and black Woolrich and the more traditional red. Orange was not required,” Darryl said.

Darryl said most of the family grew up in Fearnot, and had hunted deer and small game for years. He said he’s the only family member that also hunts bear.

“They wanted to do a retro-type deer hunting scene in the north central region, which affected a lot of people’s lives here in Schuylkill County. A lot of people traveled to the north central region, because we didn’t have deer out here like they did up there. When the hunting tradition started, it was Titus Miller’s camp. My dad was invited to become a member. It was in the town called Costello.” Titus Miller is unrelated, he said.

Numerous digital photos were taken in different positions to provide Bellis many options for the piece, he said. To set the scene, an old 4” x 6” photo of the Miller family Potter County camp was referenced, with some liberties, for the painting background.

A rough sketch was produced and submitted to PA Game News Magazine for approval. Bellis began the original acrylic painting in June and finished in late September 2016. Between sixty to seventy hours were spent on the piece, Bellis said, to ensure the likeness of all his in-laws and capture the right color, detail, atmosphere and composition. Bellis is married to Ken’s daughter, Amelia.

Bellis began getting orders for his prints on Monday, after the magazine was released.

Since 2011, Bellis has been illustrating for PA Game News Magazine. This isn’t the first time Bellis has asked kinfolk to pose for his illustrations. The October 2012 PA Game News issue, his first cover, featured his uncle Larry Bellis, cousin David Bellis and David’s son, Colt as the subjects in the painting entitled, “Through the Generations.” It was painted to represent three generations of PA Game News readers.

In 2014, Bellis painted his first “throwback” cover titled, “Days Gone By,” requested by the magazine to recreate a hunting scene from 1964.

For his latest piece, Bellis was approached by the magazine’s senior associate editor and asked to create a 1966 deer camp theme similar to his December 2014 throwback cover.

The editorial staff and readers really enjoyed that cover and the magazine was hoping for something with a similar nostalgic feel, Bellis said. Immediately his wheels started turning and he began to think about the composition and the memories he had as a young hunter at deer camp.

Limited edition, signed and numbered prints of this cover art and other published pieces are available at danabellisart.com or by calling 717-554-4747.

SHENANDOAH — A Mahanoy City man charged with assaulting a woman with a tomahawk/hatchet on Nov. 2 waived his right to a preliminary hearing Thursday.

Brandon Lee Deesing, whose age was not available, of 518 W. Centre St. was arrested by Mahanoy City police Officer-In-Charge Charles Kovalewski and charged with one felony count of aggravated assault, two misdemeanor counts of persistent disorderly conduct, one misdemeanor count each of simple assault and terroristic threats and one summary count each of harassment and criminal mischief.

Prosecutors withdrew the aggravated assault charge and Deesing waived the remaining six offenses against him for Schuylkill County Court.

Kovalewski charged Deesing with an incident that occurred about 6:20 p.m. on South First Street, where he was called for a report of a man chasing a woman down the street with an axe trying to kill her.

Kovalewski said he learned that Deesing had been chasing his ex-girlfriend, Kelsey Anderson, but the man left the area and was trying to get into an apartment where he was taken into custody without incident.

EMS was contacted since Deesing had severe bleeding from a laceration to his hand, Kovalewski said, adding that, while in the back of a police car, Deesing began yelling at Anderson and refused to stop doing so.

Anderson reported that she was walking to the Cocoa Hut store when Deesing began to run toward her screaming that he was going to kill her, reportedly with a hammer or ax in his hand, Kovalewski said. As the two came to 100 E. Pine St., Deesing punched a window, cutting his hand, threw the axe or hammer in a yard and continued to chase the woman, Kovalewski said.

The officer said he was able to recover the ax/tomahawk from a yard near the United States Post Office and the sheath for it in the area of 100 E. Pine St.

After waiving his right to a hearing, Deesing was returned to Schuylkill County Prison to await further court action.

The Schuylkill Choral Society will be celebrating the holidays in the islands this year.

“A Hawaiian Christmas” will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday at United Presbyterian Church, 214 Mahantongo St., and 3 p.m. Sunday at Schuylkill Haven Area High School. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. They are available through any choir member or by calling the society at 570-628-3388.

The choir is under the direction of Mark P. Thomas, who also came up with the Hawaiian theme.

“I was looking at different countries and how they celebrate the holidays. While driving home from teaching a class at Alvernia, I thought it doesn’t have to be a different country but it could be a different part of our country. Some time ago, several chorus members suggested a beach theme for a spring concert. So I incorporated the beach theme with Hawaii,” Thomas said.

Cynthia Mensch, publicity chairwoman for the society, said the concert will feature some Hawaiian-themed songs, such as “Christmas Island” and “Mele Kalikimaka,” as well as traditional Christmas songs like “Sleigh Ride,” “Little Drummer Boy,” “Carol of the Bells” and “The Christmas Song.”

“I think our audience anticipates something new and original each year and while each concert is unique, we want to maintain the Christmas spirit with our music selections,” Mensch said.

Mensch said in addition to delivering the sounds of Hawaii, the choir will also look the part.

“We always have a fantastic time entertaining our audience and we will be dressed in Hawaiian attire/costumes,” she said.

Mensch added that there are always a few surprises for the audience and this concert will be no different.

Due to the closing of the Mahantongo Street Parking Center, a shuttle service will be provided to Saturday’s concert in Pottsville. Concertgoers can park to the rear of Union Station on Progress Avenue. The shuttle service will run from 5:45 p.m. until the concert starts at 7 p.m. It will return people to their vehicles after the concert.

For more information, visit the choral society website, www.schchoral.org, or its Facebook page.

Schuylkill County District Attorney Christine Holman and the Schuylkill County detectives are asking for the public’s help in finding a man wanted for failing to appear in court.

Detectives said Matthew Sleva, 28, has an outstanding bench warrant for failing to appear for arraignment court on Aug. 4 on misdemeanor charges of tampering with or fabricating physical evidence and receiving stolen property.

Sleva is described as being white, about 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing about 160 pounds. His last known address is 30 Thompson St., Saint Clair, detectives said.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Sleva or on 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 or information can also be emailed to dadd@co.schuylkill.pa.us.

Anyone who may see or come in contact with Sleva is asked to 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

ORWIGSBURG — Residents of the borough and the surrounding communities and even those who previously lived in the borough welcomed in the arrival of the Christmas season with the Festival of Lights on Saturday.

“Welcome to Orwigsburg’s Festival of Lights,” Pat Falco, a local business owner and member of the Orwigsburg Business and Professional Association, told the crowd of more 125 who assembled on the M&T Bank lot.

Attendees were able to see the lighting of the Christmas tree, talk to Santa Claus, sing Christmas carols and catch up with friends.

The Blue Mountain High School Octet, made up of 10th- and 11th-grade students, sang carols, such as “We Wish you a Merry Christmas,” “Silent Night” and “Joy to the World.”

Steward Warner, pastor of Salem United Methodist Church in Orwigsburg, said the holiday season is a time to think of others and the difference one can make in the life of someone else.

“This is kind of what Christmas is supposed to be like,” he said.

Jeff O’Neill, Orwigsburg, had the honor of lighting up the square again, having been the event lamplighter 25 years ago.

“I was the original lamplighter,” he said.

After a countdown from 10, the Christmas tree soon lit up with multicolored bulbs. The approximate 20-foot blue spruce was donated by a local tree grower outside of the borough, Borough Manager Robert Williams said.

“This is a wonderful event. A wonderful Christmas event in a great town,” he said.

Borough council Vice President Susan Murphy was there with her grandson, Aaron Eckert, 6, of Orwigsburg. She was shielding the flame of the candle from the wind as they sung Christmas carols. Aaron said he was having fun, and Murphy agreed.

“I think it’s a great kickoff to the holiday season. Great attendance. I hope everyone has a nice holiday,” she said.

Children were excited to see Santa Claus before he made his appearance in the square. He rode in a horse-drawn trolley by Leiby’s Carriage Service, Tamaqua. The approximate 10-minute rides were free. Two Belgian draft horses, Brady, 13, and Ryan, 11, pulled the trolley.

Jennifer Reynolds was there with her daughter, Piper. They rode the trolley and sat next to Santa. Reynolds said her daughter was “glowing” on the ride back. Reynolds, who lives in Conshohocken, near Philadelphia, came home to visit family and friends and buy a Christmas tree.

“I like coming home,” she said.

She remembers events in the square when she was younger. She wants to “keep the tradition” by having her daughter come to the holiday event. She had good times in Schuylkill County as a child.

Ariana, 4, Colin, 12, and Patrick, 17, and their father, Stephen Seefeldt, 45, all of Deer Lake, came out to keep the tradition alive for their family.

Clover Rich, 3, and her mother, Elle Rich, also were having fun.

“The singing was beautiful. It was really nicely done,” Rich said.

She waited in line with her daughter for a chance to see Santa.

“Are you excited?” Elle asked her daughter, who keep jumping up and down while standing in line.

Clover got her chance to meet the most popular man in red this season. She smiled when she sat next to him, told him she wanted presents and talked about cats.

“I was very hesitant about waiting in that line for this but seeing her reaction was totally worth it,” Elle said.

There are so many festive events during the holiday season, you should mark your calendar now.

Lessie’s Garden is open for your holiday shopping from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. They have poinsettias, fresh wreaths, door swags, cemetery boxes and holiday baskets for purchase.

The LA Dance Theatre presents Breakfast with Buddy Holiday Show at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Nicholas Hall, Primrose. Tickets include the spectacular show and a breakfast buffet. Take a (s)elfie with Buddy. To order tickets, call Melissa at 570-640-9346.

Penn State Schuylkill is hosting a Gift Card and Gift Basket Bingo on Dec. 11 at the Walk In Art Center, Schuylkill Haven. Order advance tickets by calling Patty at 570-385-6262. Doors open at noon. Refreshments and a 50/50 raffle will be available for purchase. Proceeds benefit THON and the Alumni Scholarship Fund.

All aboard! Last chance to ride the Santa Train. Trains depart from the Union Station in Pottsville on Dec. 11. Tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis and ordering advance tickets is recommended by calling 570-628-4647. Santa will also be riding the Santa Train from the Minersville Station on Dec. 18. Tickets may be purchased at the Borough Hall or by calling 570-544-8300.

You can help the hungry in our area during the holidays. STS is accepting canned and packaged non-perishable food at their Union Station office until Dec. 16. Every item donated will issue the donor a ticket to enter a drawing for a free January bus pass. The food will be distributed to Schuylkill Community Action’s food pantries. Most needed items are canned tuna, beans, and soup, peanut butter, boxes of pasta and low-sugar cereal.

The Gabriel Youth Orchestra presents its 25th anniversary Gala Holiday Concert at 3 p.m. Dec. 18 at the D.H.H. Lengel Middle School auditorium in Pottsville. Call 570-943-2558 for ticket information.

Pictures with Santa will be offered at Schaeffer’s Harley-Davidson, Orwigsburg, on Dec. 17. Proceeds benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Next month starts the 2016 tax season. Are you someone who enjoys working with numbers? Are you one of those who are not intimidated by tax preparation? Do you like helping others?

If so, Schuylkill Community Action has the volunteer position for you. They’re now recruiting for their VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program.

The VITA program offers free income tax preparation to low to moderate income taxpayers of Schuylkill County who are eligible to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit. The assistance is provided at community and neighborhood locations and all sites offer electronic filing. The preparation of these taxes is completed by volunteers who are IRS trained and certified. The training is free and volunteers do not need prior tax/accounting knowledge.

The tax season runs from January through the tax season. Volunteers can choose their availability with morning and/or evening hours. If you’re interested in volunteering with VITA or want more information, call Jennifer or CeCe at 570-622-1995.

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.

Deeds

Ashland — Ali Oley to Michelle Knapp; 734 Brock St.; $29,000.

East Norwegian Township — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Chad Jarrah; 62 Caroline Ave.; $1,144.

Frackville — Joseph G. Groody, sheriff of Schuylkill County, to Abbas S. Adekola; 118 N. Fourth St.; $7,005.

Jeffrey A. Ansbach to James R. Ansbach; property on Balliet Street; $1.

Hegins Township — Joseph M. and Christine D. Snyder to Megan E. Henninger and Chad T. Morgan; 1158 E. Main St., Hegins; $120,000.

Pine Grove — Christopher J. and Jillian Blickley to Douglas A. and Robin S. Cresswell; property on Second Street; $1.

Ronald J. Lyons to Elizabeth A. Lyons; property on Second Street; $1.

Pine Grove Township — Randy Lee Monger to Richard M. and Glenda D. Welkom; 0.4672-acre property on Township Road 873; $13,500.

Marriages

Andrew A. Carino, McAdoo, and Renee J. Heimbach, McAdoo.

Shawn R. Turner, Huntingdon, and Krystal Harris, Hyattsville, Md.

Miles S. McCutchon, Shenandoah, and Brianna L. Swies, Frackville.

Bryant Grinnage Jr., Frackville, and Baneisha W. Wychie, Philadelphia.

Eric Ebert, Frackville, and Jessica Harkins, Frackville.

Even though December is upon us we still have some summer constellations residing in the western Pottsville skies. Just like professional sports seasons, there’s a lot of overlap with the constellation seasons. In fact, something called the “Summer Triangle” is still hanging in there in the western heavens.

The Summer Triangle itself is not a constellation, but is made up of three bright stars from three separate constellations. They’re the brightest stars in the western sky and each is the brightest in their respective constellations.

Deneb, the highest star in the west, is the brightest shiner in the constellation Cygnus the Swan. Within the stars of Cygnus is the famous and easy to see “Northern Cross” with Deneb at the top of the cross and the dimmer star Albireo at the foot. To make the cross into a swan, picture Deneb at the tail of the celestial swan and Alberio at the head. Then look for fainter stars beyond and above both ends of the crosspiece. The fainter stars, together with the three crosspiece stars, form an arc that makes up the wingspan of the swan. You can’t help but notice that Cygnus the Swan appears to be making a swan dive toward the western horizon. That seems appropriate, since Cygnus will begin to disappear from the evening sky before the end of this month, setting before evening twilight as the Earth in its orbit turns away from the big heavenly bird.

In the southwestern sky is the Great Square of Pegasus, the torso of Pegasus the Winged Horse. Just to the northeast of the Square is the constellation Andromeda the Princess, with the Andromeda Galaxy just above the princess. The Andromeda Galaxy is the next door neighbor to our Milky Way Galaxy. Our galactic neighbor isn’t very close, though, at well more than 2 million light years away, with just one light year equaling nearly 6 trillion miles. Despite that distance, you can just see the Andromeda Galaxy with the naked eye in the dark countryside as a fuzzy faint patch of light.

Gazing in the east after evening twilight, you’ll be bombarded with all kinds of bright stars and constellations, especially later in the evening. You are witnessing the rising of the winter constellations, the best of the year in my opinion.

The constellations Auriga the Chariot Driver and Taurus the Bull lead the charge. Just above Taurus is the best star cluster in the sky, known both as the Pleiades and the Seven Little Sisters. This is a young group of stars, 410 light years away, that looks like a tiny Big Dipper. After 8 p.m., Orion the Hunter, the great centerpiece of the winter constellations, takes to the low eastern sky. The three stars in a row that make the belt of the great hunter will definitely jump out at you.

We have two planets visible this month in the very low south-southwest sky very early in the evening, Venus and Mars. Venus is much brighter than Mars but you have to look for it in the extremely low southwestern sky very shortly after sunset. You won’t see it for long, though, because it slips below the horizon by around 6:30 p.m.

Mars starts out the early evening a little higher in the southwestern sky, and even though it’s a lot farther from Earth than it was earlier this year it has a distinct reddish glow. Forget about checking either planet with your telescope. They’ll both show up really fuzzy because of the blurring effects of our atmosphere that’s extremely thick along the horizon. Besides that, Venus is completely covered by a very bright poisonous cloud with acid rain drops in it!

Tonight we’ll have a special treat as Mars and the new crescent moon will be in a really tight and delightful celestial hug. Look for Mars just to the upper left of the moon.

Enjoy our holiday season night skies!

(Lynch, an amateur astronomer and professional broadcast meteorologist, can be reached at mikewlynch@comcast.net)