Young performers will be serving up a big cup of cheer this weekend at the Majestic Theater.

“Holly Jolly Christmas” will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday at the theater at 209 N. Centre St., Pottsville. The show is presented by the Pottsville Gymnastics & Theatrical Center Inc. Tickets are $15 and will be available at the door.

The show features the Spotlight Kidz and is directed by Sandy Kost-Sterner. Katrina Calvin serves as choreographer and Bruce Marianelli is music director. It will also have children who participated in a four-week workshop leading up to the show. There are approximately 40 participants in the show.

Kost-Sterner said songs to be sung include “Winter Wonderland,” “Silent Night,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas” and “Holly Jolly Christmas.” She said while many of the songs are familiar holiday classics, there are a few like “Hot Cup of Cocoa” and “Please Don’t Send Me Fruitcake” that aren’t well-known but will quickly become favorites.

“In years past we had done ‘A Broadway Christmas’ but changed the show this year. This show will feature different facets of music under categories such as Heavenly Christmas, Traditional Christmas and Joyful Christmas,” Kost-Sterner said.

For the first time, the show will have a Nativity scene. Ari Wolfe, Ringtown, will portray Joseph and Reiley Lonergan, Minersville, will be Mary.

A four-week workshop was held in conjunction with “Holly Jolly Christmas.” Not only did they learn the songs for the show, the students learned about singing, dancing and acting out a song. Kost-Sterner said about 15 children participated.

“The ultimate goal of the workshops are to introduce youngsters to theater and to give them the opportunity to perform on stage. For many, it ignites their passion for the performing arts and they get involved in other programs that the Pottsville GTC and the Majestic Theater offers,” Kost-Sterner said.

She said the one constant throughout the years at the Majestic Theater has been the Pottsville GTC. It has had many shows and events at the theater for eight years. It is owned by Barbara Kost-Lonergan.

“The magic of live theater is contagious and it is great to see so many youngsters get involved in the many exciting programs that the Pottsville GTC and the Majestic Theater provides,” Kost-Sterner said.

The next four-week workshop will be held in conjunction with “Star Struck,” to be held April 23.

For more information, visit the theater’s website at www.majestictheater.net.

Upcoming events at the Majestic Theater include auditions for “Cinderella Kids” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Auditions are open to boys and girls in first to eighth grade. The show will be held from March 3-5 and is directed by Blue Mountain graduate Kelly Pleva. For further information, email to majesticplayerspottsville@gmail.com.

On Dec. 29, Broadway performer Brandon Rubendall will host a workshop. A native of Reading, Rubendall was part of the Tony Award-winning show “Anything Goes” and appeared in “Superman” and “Disaster.” The workshop will be split into two divisions — grades 1-6 and grades 7 through college. For more information, email to schmusicevent@comcast.net.

After repeated attempts to rehabilitate a Bethlehem woman without sending her to state prison, a Schuylkill County judge sentenced her Thursday to be under state supervision for two years.

Jane E. Bruno, 50, must spend two years in the state intermediate punishment program, President Judge William E. Baldwin ruled. That program combines time in a state correctional institution with placements in substance abuse rehabilitation facilities.

Baldwin told Bruno she needs to put work into rehabilitating herself, and the program is just such a way to do that.

“You’ve got an opportunity to turn things around,” he said during Thursday’s five-minute hearing.

He also ordered Bruno to submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities and undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation.

Bruno already is an inmate at State Correctional Institution/Muncy in Lycoming County and participated in Thursday’s hearing by videoconference.

Thursday’s hearing was the fourth time Bruno has been before the court in the case.

She originally pleaded guilty on Jan. 18, 2012, to three counts of forgery and one each of conspiracy and theft of lost property, with prosecutors withdrawing three counts each of identity theft and access device fraud. At that time, Baldwin placed her on probation for 23 months and also ordered her to pay costs and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account and undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation.

Pottsville police charged her with committing her crimes on March 17, 2011, in the city.

However, Baldwin later revoked her probation on Sept. 5, 2013, again on Oct. 2, 2014, and yet again on July 27. The last revocation resulted in Bruno being sent to the state prison system for evaluation for the program.

n Girardville: The borough has announced emergency snow removal procedures when snowfall goes to 3 inches or higher. There will be two snow removal days: On the first day of the storm, there will be no parking on Preston Avenue and Lower Railroad Street. There will also no parking on the even sides of Second, A, B, C and Ogden streets; on the second day there will be no parking on the odd sides of Beech, Second, A, B, C and Ogden streets. Until removal is completed, the aforementioned streets must be kept open. Vehicles that are not removed according to the schedule will be cited, as will anyone caught throwing snow onto the street. Private contractors must remove snow piles they create or face citations.

n McAdoo: Borough officials have reminded residents that a snow ban is in effect when a snow and/or ice event is predicted to accumulate at least 3 to 5 inches of snow. A snow emergency is in effect when 6 inches or more of snow has fallen. Vehicles will be allowed to park only on the side of the street where the house numbers are the odd numbers, with some exceptions. On secondary streets (alleys) there will be no parking at all. The emergency area for helicopter landing zone is the cemetery area of East Washington Street from South Lincoln Street to the railroad tracks on the north or south sides of the street. Also, snow emergency routes in extreme conditions and/or special circumstances may be declared. Violators will pay a fine of $50 and have their vehicles towed by order of the McAdoo Police Department. Snow can’t be piled onto a street or alley, near or over a fire hydrant, at intersections and/or any storm drains within the borough. Fines and penalties can be enforced and issued by the McAdoo Police Department and/or code enforcement officers.

n Pottsville: Schuylkill Area Community Foundation, in a release, said people can create charitable requests in their wills. “Your attorney can add language to your will to describe your intent,” SACF officials said. They also noted that people can name an organization as the beneficiary of their entire life insurance policy or a percentage of the policy. “Contact you life insurance agent or your attorney to help you complete a beneficiary designation form.” SACF can also help people make donations or create their own charitable legacies through its services. For more information, call Eileen Kuperavage at 570-624-7223.

n Saint Clair: The Saint Clair Lions Club will sponsor an overnight trip to Turning Stone casino and bingo hall in Verona, New York, from March 15 to 16. The cost is $145 per person. The club is accepting reservations now. For more information, call Bob at 570-429-0549. The club will also have New Year’s Eve bingo with doors opening at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 31. The cost is $35 per person and the games will be held at the club bingo hall, McCord Avenue. Reservations are required. For more information, call 570-429-0549.

n Schuylkill Haven: The Walk In Art Center, 110 W. Columbia St., will host a Muhammad Ali tribute exhibition in throughout January. The opening will be 1 to 5 p.m. Jan. 7. An open mic night is set for 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 12. People will be able to see Ali memorabilia and bring and share their Ali memorabilia. For open mic night, they will be able to hear Ali stories and share their stories with the audience. Admission is free but donations are welcome. For more information, call the center at 570-732-3726.

n Shenandoah: In line with a borough ordinance, residents must clear their sidewalks, providing at least a 30-inch-wide path, within 24 hours of an accumulating snow or ice event. Also, residents should not throw snow onto streets, a practice that is prohibited by the ordinance. People who do not adhere to the requirements can face penalties.

n Tamaqua: An American Red Cross blood drive is scheduled for 1 to 6 p.m. Dec. 27 at the Tamaqua YMCA, 1201 E. Broad St. at the former Jamesway Plaza. People 17 and older (16 with parental consent), weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health are urged to donate blood. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information or to arrange for an appointment, call 800-733-2767.

This holiday season, Schuylkill County police are looking for drunk drivers as part of a special year-end Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement mobilization.

Beginning today and continuing into the new year, motorists will see stepped up enforcement watching closely for anyone who is driving impaired, David Everly, North Central Regional DUI Enforcement Program coordinator, said.

“We want to keep our roads safe for holiday travelers, so we will have zero tolerance for drunk driving,” Everly said.

With the excitement of holiday parties and celebrations, too many drivers are taking to the roadways after drinking.

Everly said that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data show that any decision to drive while impaired can have serious and even deadly consequences. Nationally, in 2015, 35,092 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes and 29 percent, or 10,265, died in crashes where the driver had a blood alcohol concentration over the limit of 0.08-percent.

“From 2011 to 2015, 14,034 people lost their lives in motor vehicle traffic crashes during the month of December, and 28 percent, 3,983, died in a crash that involved a driver with a BAC of 0.08 or higher,” Everly said.

“This ought to be the ‘most wonderful time of the year,’ so we will do what it takes to help save lives by keeping our roads safe,” he said. “If you choose to drive impaired, not only will you risk your safety, and that of others, but you will also face the legal consequences.”

Everly said that drunk driving offenders often serve jail time, lose their driver’s license, are charged higher insurance rates and pay dozens of other unanticipated expenses ranging from attorney fees, court costs, car towing and repairs, and lost wages due to time off from work.

“But the ultimate cost of drunk driving is causing a traffic crash that injures or kills,” he said.

Both Everly and Schuylkill County District Attorney Christine A. Holman urged motorists to follow the tips listed to stay safe on the road this holiday season:

• If you will be drinking, plan on not driving. Plan your safe ride home before you start the party. Designate a sober driver ahead of time.

• If you become intoxicated, do not drive for any reason. Call a taxi, phone a sober friend or family member or use public transportation. Try NHTSA’s SaferRide mobile app, which allows users to call a taxi or friend and identify their location so they can be picked up.

• If someone you know has been drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel. Take their keys, take them home or help them arrange a safe way home.

• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact your local law enforcement. Your actions could help save someone’s life.

“Remember, it is never safe to drink and drive,” Holman said. “Schuylkill County Police will be looking for drunk drivers ... drive sober or get pulled over.”

TOWER CITY — Volunteers have begun collections for a family of three displaced by a fire Wednesday night in Porter Township.

Orwin Assistant Fire Chief Ronald Masarik said crews were called to a home at 17 Bendigo St. at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday. He did not have the names of the occupants, who were not at home at the time. He said no one was injured, including a pet dog and cat.

“The whole first floor was fully involved,” Masarik said.

The residents included a five-year-old girl, an eight-year-old boy and their mother, according to Patti Daley, Disaster Team Captain and volunteer with the Tri-County Chapter of the American Red Cross. Daley, Schuylkill Haven, and her mother, Pauline Manbeck, were on-site at the fire Wednesday to assist the victims. Anyone wishing to donate money, clothes or toys to the family may do so through the American Red Cross by calling 610-375-4342 and asking for Heather Bowman. Bowman will then get in touch with Daley with the information.

Daley said as of Thursday, someone had already requested to donate toys and gift cards to the family.

Orwin Fire Company has also started a collection, according to volunteer Jean Schorr.

“They lost everything,” Schorr said.

Clothing in girl’s size 6; boy’s size 7-8; and women’s size medium would be appreciated, as well as monetary donations, she said.

“Anything we can do to get them back on their feet,” Schorr said.

She posted information on Facebook about the collections. Contributors can bring items to Orwin Fire Company, 333 Dietrich Ave., Tower City.

The cause of the fire is unknown, as of Thursday evening, but is not suspicious, Masarik said. He said he doesn’t know if the home was a total loss, the value of the home or if it was insured. Assisting at the scene were fire companies from Tower City, Sheridan, Muir, Joliett and Lykens; as well as Williamstown EMS and Tower City Ambulance, and the American Red Cross, according to Masarik.

Orwin Fire Chief Dean Bender was unable to be reached for comment.

“All of the companies did an excellent job,” Masarik said.

No neighboring properties were affected by the blaze, he said. Porter Township also put salt down to keep the ground from getting too slick while volunteers battled the fire. Crews returned to their station at 11 p.m., Masarik said.

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — Richard Croneberger, water distribution/wasterwater collection foreman for Schuylkill Haven Borough, is retiring from his job after almost 40 years.

“People always told me, when it’s time, you know. It’s true, your body tells you,” he said Thursday while sitting at his desk.

The 63-year-old borough resident’s last day ends at 3:30 p.m. today. During his time with the department, he has seen a lot of changes, missed holidays, worked long hours but enjoyed his career. He said he will miss the people he works with and helping the public. His plans are not yet finalized on what he wants to do with the free time he’ll get through retirement. Perhaps he will fix some things on a to-do list he has wanted to get done.

“Everyday brought a new challenge,” he said.

Retiring is something he has been thinking about for some time.

A graduate of Schuylkill Haven Area High School, he attended college out of state and an in-state school but decided to get a summer job and didn’t graduate. He does not have any regrets for not doing so. He started in construction and made good money. He later worked for A&R Corp., Pine Grove, as a laborer and pipe layer. One thing led to another, and he found himself being offered a temporary job with the borough after an accident involving a trench and workers on The Island. The workers were not critically injured.

His first day on the job was in November 1977. He does not remember the exact day. He was promoted to foreman in July 1984.

“I was the youngest foreman ever here,” he said.

His day starts early. Croneberger said he arrives at work about 6:20 a.m. and is usually the last to leave for the day. He has five people in his department. He admitted he likes things a certain way but said he has learned to be flexible, something he has to do. He prides himself on having “survived” working for 12 borough managers/administrators and council members.

The work day can be long and tiring.

“We are on call 24/7, 365 days a year,” he said.

In his time with the department, they modernized the way things are done in the office. For example, he said, maps of the water and sewer locations were few and far between.

“The maps were vague, very few,” he said.

Two maps now hang on the wall in the borough garage on Haven Street. Smaller specialized areas show where water and sewer are also available. As foreman, and with the assistance of the crew, 441 water leaks were repaired, 118 sanitary sewage blockages opened, 17,826 feet of new water main line were installed and 1,840 feet of new sewer main line installed. He inspected and supervised 66,506 feet of new water main line and 6,472 feet of new sanitary sewer main line were installed by contractors for the borough. Other projects included assisting the borough warehouse renovations, re-plumbing the building on Haven Street and supervising the borough hall move to the current borough hall along Route 61. The borough also received awards because of his effort and Kevin Butz, chief operator of the Schuylkill Haven Water Treatment Plant, for Pennsylvania Water System of the Year in 2013 and Pennsylvania Wastewater System of the Year in 2016.

Croneberger admitted he will feel a little sad today when he completes his day. He submitted his retirement letter to the borough last month. The council accepted his retirement Dec. 7. Many council members thanked him for his service. He said the letter was hard for him to write. He thanked the council, employees and residents of the borough for giving him the opportunity. His goal is to see the borough better off from his time there, the letter says.

“I’m leaving my department in very capable hands and well prepared,” he said.

Carter Hoffman, heavy equipment operator, will try to fill Croneberger’s shoes. He had nothing but good words for his boss, whom he described as one who is easy to talk to and invested in promoting his knowledge to the workers.

“You couldn’t ask for a better boss,” he said.

Hoffman, 44, has been with the borough for 25 years.

B.J. Folk, borough recreation manager, applauded Croneberger’s dedication.

“He’s been a valuable employee to the borough. He sets a good example for younger employees in his hard work and dedication for all these years,” Folk said.

Schuylkill Haven Borough Manager Scott Graver said Croneberger’s dedication is “second to none.”

“We will miss his experience in the field and his dedication to the borough,” Graver said.

Kathy Killian also is a longtime employee with the district who agreed Croneberger will be missed.

“He’s a good foreman,” she said.

GIRARDVILLE — The borough council formally adopted the 2017 operating budget at the Dec. 8 meeting that holds the line on taxes.

The financial plan was approved in a 4-0 vote. The council released the proposed budget at the Nov. 10 meeting to allow a full month for the public to view the document at borough hall.

The real estate tax will remain at 19.7 mills for the second year in a row. One mill brings in about $6,000 in revenue.

Total revenues in the proposed budget are $353,500, with total expenditures slightly higher at $359,550. The budget for 2016 had balanced revenues and expenses at $447,000.

Councilman Michael G. Huss read the budget to the public before the vote.

“There will be no tax increase this year,” council President Charles Marquardt said. “I thank the rest of the council members. When we first sat down, at first we thought there would be an increase, but we made some cuts.”

Councilman Daniel Heiser commented on the budget being out of balance between revenues and expenditures.

“When of the main questions that people are going to ask is that our revenues are lower than our expenditures, but that’s because our budget is based at starting at zero, and we’re expecting a rollover in the next year,” Heiser said.

The surplus from 2016 is expected about $12,000.

In a related action, the council adopted an ordinance fixing the real estate tax levy for 2017 at 19.7 mills.

The council also approved obtaining a tax anticipation loan up to $40,000. Tax anticipation loans are obtained by municipalities for paying operational expenses at the beginning of the year until tax revenues are received in March and are normally paid by the end of that fiscal year.

The meeting opened with council President Charles Marquardt reading a letter addressed to himself, all council members, mayor, secretary, solicitor and borough employees, thanking all of them “serving your community and your efforts to make this town a better place to live and to grow and are much appreciated. Signed, Santa.”

Marquardt said a present was left in front of each of the council members, mayor and solicitor. The borough meeting room was decorated for the Christmas holiday, with Marquardt thanking resident Rosalie Rowan-Kuzma for supplying the decorations and doing the decorating.

Usually, the school districts in the Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 appoint one of their school board members to represent them on the IU 29 Board of Directors and the Schuylkill County Area Vocational Technical school board.

But in September, Blue Mountain decided to appoint Mary Jo Moss to the vocational technical school board — which is also known as the Schuylkill Technology Center board — while keeping Anne J.F. Usuka as its representative on the IU board.

“Blue Mountain’s the only one that has split up the task among two people, the only one that’s ever done that as far as I know,” James Caravan, solicitor for both the IU 29 board and the STC board, said Monday.

It hasn’t been an issue until recently, when Moss asked permission to sit in on the IU 29 board’s executive sessions regarding the search for a new IU 29 executive director.

The IU 29 board needs to replace Diane M. Niederriter, who in May accepted a job as superintendent of Williams Valley School District, effective April 1, 2017.

On Monday at the IU 29 board’s December meeting at the Maple Avenue Campus, Moss brought up the matter for discussion. After a 15-minute discussion, the IU board did not object.

“We never had to deal with this before. So there’s really no precedent for it,” Caravan said.

“I am respectfully asking you to invite me into the IU executive sessions,” Moss said.

“I’m for that, as long as we’re not violating anything,” Charles Wagner, Pottsville Area representative, said.

“She’s not on the IU board. It’s nothing personal,” Caravan said.

“I think going forward, depending on the nature of the session, Mary Jo should be considered a guest,” Usuka said.

“I don’t know if we should carte blanche make the decision to do that,” Larry A. Wittig, Tamaqua Area representative and vice president of both the IU 29 and the STC boards, said.

“This search is for a person to lead not only the IU but — the way it’s set up in the current format — to oversee the STC. So why wouldn’t we want that input?” Charles “Chaz” Hepler, North Schuylkill representative, said.

“I’m not saying we don’t want it,” Wittig said.

“She has the same skin in the game that the rest of us do,” Hepler said.

“The point is, what if we get requests from other people to go into our executive sessions for the very same reason?” Wittig said.

“ ‘Are you a board member of either entity?’ is where the conversation would begin and end. And obviously she is,” Hepler said.

“The IU board is a separate legal entity from the 12 school districts. It’s just that the 12 school districts provide the pool of board members for that board. But the IU board sits by itself. And STC is a little bit different. STC is a jointure of the 12 districts,” Caravan said.

“Our situation is set up so our STC board — the 12 individual school boards — have hired the IU, which is run by the IU board, to operate the STC. So that is how, in fact, the STC board we have is actually part of the IU board,” Caravan said.

“That being said, Blue Mountain is the only one that has split up the task among two people, the only one that’s ever done that as far as I know,” Caravan said.

“Basically, the IU board is the one that has the votes, the 12 votes for hiring an executive director. Most of what will be done with that will happen in executive session because it does involve a personnel issue. As Mary Jo indicated, it is perfectly within the rights of the IU board to invite whoever they want into their executive sessions,” Caravan said.

“In order for her to be in here, a majority of the IU board has to say ‘come on in.’ That’s all,” Caravan said.

“My only question, ‘is it legal?’ ” Daniel F. Stroup, Williams Valley representative, asked.

“It’s legal. It’s not required. It’s not forbidden. It’s a matter of discretion on the part of the IU board,” Caravan said.

“Does anyone care?” Stroup asked.

“It doesn’t bother me one way or another, just so Blue Mountain understands they have one vote, and it’s Anne’s. The executive director is hired by the Intermediate Unit board of which Anne is the voting member,” Scott Jacoby, Schuylkill Haven Area representative and president of both the IU 29 and the STC boards, said.

“That’s never been an issue. But I do implore to all of you to keep STC in mind. This is really an exciting time for STC. I really, really think STC has a lot of growth potential,” Moss said.

From January 2011 to December 2012, Moss was Blue Mountain’s representative on the IU board and the STC board.

“I volunteered to be the IU/STC board representative when I joined the board a year ago. Anne was the rep at the time and agreed to step down, but first wanted to see through some of the governance issues that were being addressed. Since I am particularly interested in STC, the Blue Mountain school board agreed to appoint me as STC representative while Anne remains the IU 29 representative,” Moss said Dec. 14.

“The idea stems from my strong interest in promoting STC and Anne’s determination to address governance issues with the IU. The board fully supported dual representation. They are three year terms. Blue Mountain’s terms expire on June 30, 2019,” Moss said.

David J. Rossi

TREMONT — A Dauphin County woman is headed to Schuylkill County Court after waiving her right to a preliminary hearing Thursday on two sets of drug-related charges that arose from incidents on the same day.

Macy K. Barder, 27, of 3325 N. Second St., Lykens, faces charges of delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance in one case and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia in the second.

Magisterial District Judge David J. Rossi bound over all charges for court in each case after Barder waive her right to the hearing. He allowed Barder to remain free on a total of $5,000 straight cash bail — $2,500 in each case — pending further court action.

Tower City police charged Barder with selling drugs on Jan. 15 in Girardville and possessing drugs and paraphernalia on the same date in Tower City.

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

Derek D. Buchkoski, 28, of 414 E. Main St., Camp Hill; two counts each of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia and one each of operating vehicle without valid inspection and driving unregistered vehicle; charges held for court after preliminary hearing that Buchkoski did not attend. Rossi asked the court to issue a bench warrant for Buchkoski.

Ethan O. Carl, 26, of 92 Beuchler Lane, Pine Grove; driving under the influence, disregarding traffic lane and careless driving; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Jacqueline S. Firestine, 42, of 2002 E. Center St., Tremont; delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance; right to preliminary hearing waived, charges bound over for court.

Jonathan F. Graham, 50, of 350 Walnut St., Northampton; theft by deception and disorderly conduct; charge of theft by deception withdrawn. Graham pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct and was sentenced to pay costs and a $100 fine.

An Auburn woman will spend two years under court supervision after being sentenced Dec. 6 in Schuylkill County Court on drug-related charges.

Ashley P. Balsamo, 25, must spend 24 months in the intermediate punishment program, including two on house arrest with electronic monitoring and the rest on probation, under the terms of Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin’s sentence.

Dolbin also sentenced Balsamo to pay costs, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund, $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account, a $50 bench warrant fee and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem.

Balsamo had pleaded guilty on Nov. 16 to delivery of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia, with prosecutors withdrawing charges of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance. West Mahanoy Township police had charged Balsamo with delivering drugs and possessing paraphernalia on June 18, 2015, in the township.

In another Tuesday case, Dolbin revoked the probation of Timothy L. Vidal, 31, of Cumbola, and sentenced him to serve four to 23 months in prison. Vidal also must undergo drug and alcohol and mental health evaluations under the terms of Dolbin’s sentence.

Vidal originally pleaded guilty on Feb. 18, 2015, to simple assault, with prosecutors withdrawing a charge of harassment. At that time, Dolbin placed Vidal on probation for two years, and also sentenced him to pay costs and a $50 CJEA payment, each of which the defendant still must pay under the terms of Tuesday’s sentence.

State police at Frackville charged Vidal with committing the assault on July 21, 2014, in Blythe Township.

Dolbin on Tuesday also revoked the probation and parole of James T. Nalesnik Jr., 38, of Mahanoy City, and sentenced him to serve six to 12 months behind bars.

Nalesnik originally pleaded guilty on Dec. 9, 2015, to false report to law enforcement and false identification to law enforcement, with prosecutors withdrawing charges of driving under suspension, failure to carry license and failure to notify of change of address. At that time, Dolbin sentenced Nalesnik to serve six to 18 months in prison and pay costs, a $50 CJEA payment and a $189.90 bench warrant fee, all of which the defendant still must pay under the terms of Tuesday’s sentence.

Rush Township police charged Nalesnik with committing his crimes on Oct. 21, 2014, in the township.

In other recent county court action, Judge James P. Goodman accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, these people:

Wayne Gavenas, 35, of Pottsville; possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest; 18 months probation, $100 SAEF payment and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew charges of retail theft and simple assault.

Francis T. Green, 33, of Mahanoy City; disorderly conduct; $300 fine. Prosecutors withdrew eight counts of recklessly endangering another person, four of terroristic threats, three of propelling missile into occupied vehicle, one each of prohibited possession of weapon and possession of weapons and one additional count of disorderly conduct.

Troy L. Horn, 45, of Minersville; unsworn falsification to authorities; 12 months probation and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of materially false written statement.

Angie J. Kasper, 34, of Tower City; possession of a controlled substance, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and retail theft; 12 months probation, $25 fine, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $176 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem.

Lisa V. Kudelin-Wilson, 47, of Scranton; DUI and improper driving without lights; six months probation, $325 in fines, $100 SAEF payment, $520 restitution to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street and 10 hours community service. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of operating vehicle without valid inspection.

Justin A. Lawlor, 35, of Andreas; DUI, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and no rear lights; five years intermediate punishment, $1,525 in fines, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment, $400 restitution to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street and 40 hours community service.

Megan A. Leymeister, 31, of Staten Island, New York; retail theft and receiving stolen property; nine months probation.

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

In 2018, people who own swimming pools in Pottsville will have some new rules to consider.

A group of students from Pottsville Area High School got some insights Wednesday when they attended a public meeting at City Hall regarding the city’s stormwater system.

“For people who have seasonal swimming pools, years ago you just dumped it into the storm drain. It’s still under our city ordinance as something that is allowed. But what can possibly be harmful about dumping somebody’s swimming pool water in there? What kind of chemicals do people put in their swimming pools?” asked Michael S. Hummel, a project manager for Alfred Benesch & Co., Pottsville, the engineering firm the city contracts.

“Chlorine,” said a few of the students, who are members of the high school’s Ecology Club.

“You’re asking the right group here,” Adrian Portland, the group’s adviser, said.

“Chlorine’s the biggest one, right? So, before they should be able to dump their pool they should dechlorinate the water. In fact, in the next round of permitting, pool water will no longer be allowed to be dumped into municipal storm systems because DEP and the EPA have recognized that, in addition to chlorine, people use all kind of other types of reagents,” Hummel said.

“The 2018 General Permit removes dechlorinated swimming pool discharges from the list of authorized nonstormwater discharges. DEP’s policy as presented in its fact sheet, ‘Swimming Pool Water Discharge Guidelines’ (3800-FS-DEP4251), calls for disposal of dechlorinated swimming pool water to sanitary sewers or otherwise infiltration to the subsurface but not discharge to streams or storm sewers,” according to a state Department of Environmental Protection fact sheet available online at www.elibrary.dep.state.pa.us.

“So when it changes, how will you notify people with pools who do that?” Angela Eckert, junior at Pottsville Area, said.

“That’s a good question. That’s part of our public education and outreach,” Hummel said.

“One of the things that we do is if you want to put a pool in your yard, you have to come in and get a permit for it. Right now, we just tell them all the legal requirements and all the code requirements about your pool. But at that point in time, we’ll also have to let them know the endgame with the pool as well. And we’ll have to let them know what their alternatives will be,” City Administrator Thomas A. Palamar said.

The city manages miles of underground tunnels and pipes that carry stormwater from inlets to the Schuylkill River, the West Branch of the Schuylkill River and several tributary streams, according to a slideshow presentation.

DEP gave the city its first MS4 permit on Sept. 30, 2004, according to the newspaper’s archives.

In late 2011, DEP released an updated set of MS4 permit requirements. They included public education and outreach, public involvement and participation, and illicit discharge detection and elimination.

So, on Wednesday, the city brought in representatives from Alfred Benesch to give a public presentation about the system in council chambers.

“When you’re washing your car in the driveway, remember you’re not just washing your car in the driveway. And when you’re fertilizing your lawn, you’re not just fertilizing the lawn. You’re fertilizing the river,” David L. Horst, who is also a project manager with Benesch, said.

“So, what about actual car washes?” Eckert asked.

“Most commercial car washes probably have some kind of recyclable use of the water and what doesn’t get recycled probably goes into the sewer system where it will be treated,” Hummel said, referring to the combined stormwater and sewer system managed by the Greater Pottsville Area Sewer Authority.

Other students there included juniors Sadie Michel, Brady Kokitus, Emma Walinsky, Max Kelly, Abby Wiederhold and Morgan Guers.

Also present was Tiffany Reedy, principal of Pottsville Area High School.

For more information about the city’s stormwater system, visit www.city.pottsville.pa.us/ms4.

Police: Woman

injured in crash

A crash that was reported about 10:30 p.m. Tuesday in the 2200 block of West Market Street was investigated by Pottsville police.

Police said Patrolman James Englert investigated the crash and determined that a 79-year-old Saint Clair man was driving a Chevrolet S-10 east on West Market Street when he slowed for traffic and was struck from behind by a Chevrolet Cavalier being driven in the same direction by Jean Dronick, 92, of Pottsville.

Englert said that Dronick was taken to a local hospital by Schuylkill EMS for treatment of minor injuries and that her vehicle had to be towed from the scene due to front end damage and air bag deployment.

As a request of the driver of the truck, Englert said that although Dronick was at fault for the crash, she will not be cited for following too closely and careless driving.

The truck sustained minor damage to the rear bumper and was able to be driven from the scene, Englert said.

Woman cited in

2-vehicle accident

Pottsville police investigated a crash about 6:45 a.m. Thursday at the intersection of Claude A. Boulevard, Route 61, and East Arch Street.

Police said Phyllis Maurer, 54, of Girardville, was driving a 2008 Chrysler Pacifica south on Route 61 when she tried to turn left onto East Arch Street and drove into the path of a 2004 Honda CR-V being driven north on Route 61 by a 49-year-old Pottsville woman.

Police said the impact of the collision caused the Honda to strike a pole at the northeast corner of the intersection, and Maurer’s car to strike a sign belonging to Boas Surgical located at 90 N. Claude A. Lord Blvd. on the side of the roadway.

The operator of the Honda was transported from the scene by Pottsville EMS to a local medical facility for treatment associated with injuries suffered in the accident.

Pottsville fire personnel assisted on scene and both vehicles had to be towed, police said.

Both vehicles sustained disabling damage.

Police said that as a result of the crash, Maurer will be cited for vehicles turning left.

Police investigate

vehicle theft

Pottsville police are investigated a theft of a vehicle that was reported to their department on Tuesday.

Police said the victim reported he discovered his 1999 gold Dodge Intrepid with Pennsylvania registration plate EGS3882 was stolen from the 400 block of Mahantongo Street.

The owner was unsure of the time frame for the incident other than that it happened within “the last couple of days,” police said.

The vehicle reportedly has a NRA sticker in the rear window and an AAA sticker on the bumper.

Anyone with any information on the incident is asked to call investigating officer, Patrolman Jonathan Randolph, at 570-622-1234, Ext. 193.

None injured

in vehicle fire

Pottsville police investigated a vehicle fire that occurred about 9:35 p.m. Dec. 9 on West Griffith Avenue.

Police said an 18-year-old Pottsville woman was driving south and as she approached the intersection with Mount Hope Avenue, she encountered brake problems with her vehicle that rendered them useless.

After she proceeded through the intersection, she was able to utilize her emergency break to stop the vehicle, police said.

After the woman exited the vehicle, she discovered the vehicle was on fire, police said.

Pottsville firefighters were called and quickly extinguished the fire, police said, adding that no injuries were reported and the vehicle towed from the scene.

Deeds

Ashland — William G. Schwab, trustee in bankruptcy, to Raymond J. Cope; property on Walnut Street; $10,200.

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — It would take more than punishing gusts and sub-zero wind chills to keep supporters away from the fourth Wreaths Across America program staged Thursday at the Schuylkill Haven Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

About 150 people braved the unwelcoming weather for the program, organized by the Schuylkill Haven American Legion Auxiliary Robert E. Baker Post 38. Prior to the service, hundreds of others lined the streets of Schuylkill Haven borough, from elementary to high school students, to members of the Schuylkill Haven Business Association, as the convoy of three wreath delivery trucks paraded their way from Bubeck Park to the memorial along Route 61.

The service opened with a moment of silence to remember the fallen, the prisoners of war, the missing in action and to honor those who served and are serving in the nation’s armed forces.

Guy Wiederhold, Pottsville, Commander of the Schuylkill County Veterans of the Vietnam War, Post 29; welcomed guests and Monsignor Edward Zemencik of St. Ambrose Parish offered the invocation.

Cosette Pohronezny, president of the American Legion Auxiliary said, “We are not here today to ‘decorate’ graves. We are here to remember not their deaths, but their lives. Each wreath is a gift of appreciation from a grateful America. These live, balsam wreaths symbolize our honor to those who have served and are serving in the armed forces of our great nation and to their families who endure sacrifices everyday on our behalf.”

In her opening remarks, Kristina Miller, American Legion Auxiliary vice-president, explained how the Wreaths Across America story began. She said 17 years ago, Morrill and Karen Worcester, of the Worcester Wreath Company in Maine, began a tradition of placing wreaths on the headstones of our nation’s fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery. Last year, volunteers placed 143,000 remembrance wreaths in Arlington. “This year, Wreaths Across America intends to honor every service member buried at Arlington, which means 230,000 wreaths will be placed there.”

“We are fortunate to have the very same wreaths and trucks that are on their way to Arlington, stop in Schuylkill Haven so that we may deliver the same message of thanks to those who served in our nation’s military,” Miller said.

Kathleen Wingle, past president of the Schuylkill Haven American Legion Auxiliary recited “America’s Creed,” which was accepted by the House of Representatives April 3, 1918. It describes a “perfect union,” established “upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice and humanity for which patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. It is therefore my duty to my country to love it; to support its Constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its flag and to defend it against all enemies.”

The auxiliary presented a check for $1,500 to the Wreaths Across America program; the money will be used for wreaths at Fort Indiantown Gap. The Schuylkill Haven Elementary presented a check to the cause for $200; and the Schuylkill Haven Business and Professional Women donated $168.

About 40 members of the Williams Valley Elementary Band made the trip, and were slated to perform “The Star Spangled Banner,” under the direction of Joel Guldin. Unfortunately, the cold temperatures put a damper on using their instruments, but the students were able to hear the ceremony. They stayed on their school bus in the parking lot in order to keep warm prior to the service’s start. Other students participating included those from the Schuylkill Haven High School Veterans Committee, and students from Shenandoah Valley and Nativity BVM.

A chorus from St. Ambrose in Schuylkill Haven and All Saints in McAdoo provided the musical selections. Borough Mayor Mike Devlin also attended the event.

Michael J. Mescavage, Pennsylvania Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and a member of the Patriot Guard and Purple Heart Riders, said Thursday was his first time attending the wreath ceremony at the Schuylkill Haven monument.

“It’s great to see the kids participate in these military honors,” Mescavage, of Hamburg, said.

“They get to see what the veterans did in the different conflicts and get an appreciation for what veterans did to honor our country. In the schools, they really don’t teach what our servicemen did so these children have the freedom to play.”

Dr. David Rajchel, Pottsville, said it was his first time carrying a wreath for the service. Rajchel retired from the Air National Guard in 2011, and laid a wreath in remembrance of those who served and are serving in the Air Force.

Others who laid wreaths, for the respective branches of service were: Jim Bainbridge, Army; Kenneth Albitz, Marine Corps; Pete Koury, Navy; Garry Thomas, Coast Guard; and Bill Whitecavage, Merchant Marines. George Jackson, a World War II veteran, laid a remembrance wreath in honor of the 93,129 U.S. servicemen from all branches of the service whose last known status was either Prisoner of War or Missing in Action.

Miller said Saturday about 15,912 wreaths will be placed at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. “Weather permitting, we will be there to assist and encourage you to attend. As we place each wreath we will take the time to say each veteran’s name and thank them for their sacrifice so that we may live in freedom.”

The Rev. Shawn Van Dyke, of First United Church of Christ, Schuylkill Haven, offered the Benediction. The service concluded with a 21-gun salute, and the playing of taps.

Following the ceremony, participants and guests were invited to the legion in Schuylkill Haven for a luncheon.

James F. Farrell, General Transportation Manager for Wal-Mart Logistics, Pottsville, who’s also on the board of trustees for the Wreaths Across America program, joined the auxiliary group at the luncheon, along with several of the truck drivers. It was Farrell who got the auxiliary involved with the program.

Donald Ellington, York, served in the Navy, and was one of the drivers hauling the wreaths. He’s a veteran of Vietnam and Afghanistan. He appreciated the community support in Schuylkill County, he said.

“It was awesome. With this weather, to see all the people standing out, it really makes you feel good. I was glad they allow us this opportunity to participate,” Ellington said.

A Minersville man will not have to serve time in prison after admitting Dec. 9 in Schuylkill County Court that he made a false statement on a firearms application in May 2015 in his hometown.

Instead of taking his case to trial, Randall Sunday pleaded guilty to unsworn falsification to authorities. Prosecutors withdrew charges of violation of duty of firearm ownership, materially false written statement and improper delivery of firearm.

Judge James P. Goodman, who was to have presided over Sunday’s nonjury trial, instead accepted his plea and sentenced him to spend two years on probation and pay costs and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account.

Minersville police charged Sunday with making the false statement on May 15, 2015, in the borough. Assistant District Attorney David J. Rice said Sunday made the false statement while trying to buy a .22 caliber handgun from Custom Gun Finishes.

Also on Dec. 9, Ashlee M.S. Shull, 24, of Harrisburg, pleaded no contest to possession of drug paraphernalia. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of improper driving without lights.

Judge John E. Domalakes accepted Shull’s plea and sentenced her to spend 12 months on probation and pay costs and $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund.

Frackville borough police charged Shull with possessing paraphernalia on July 12, 2014, in the borough.

By pleading no contest, Shull did not admit committing the crime but offered no defense to the charge, acknowledged that prosecutors had enough evidence to prove her guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and agreed to be sentenced as if she had pleaded or been found guilty.

Shull was returned to Dauphin County prison after being sentenced.

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

Christopher M. Fessler, 31, of Minersville; three counts possession of drug paraphernalia, two of theft and one each of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and driving under suspension; time served to 12 months in prison with immediate parole, 24 months consecutive probation, $200 fine, $250 in payments to the CJEA and $15 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew two counts of receiving stolen property and one of defiant trespass.

Jason J. Pryce, 31, of Ashland; theft; nine to 18 months in a state correctional institution consecutive to current sentence, $50 CJEA payment and $150 restitution. Prosecutors withdrew charges of robbery and receiving stolen property.

Anthony Scott, 47, of Saint Clair; hindering apprehension; 12 months probation and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of conspiracy.

April A. Seritsky, 45, of Ashland; two counts of delivery of a controlled substance; time served to 23 months in prison with immediate parole, $200 in payments to the SAEF, $100 in CJEA payments, $226 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew two counts each of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance.

Christine L. Slate, 47, of Minersville; tampering with evidence; 23 months probation and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew five counts of access device fraud, two of forgery and one of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Michael A. Stisowain, 20, of Tamaqua; driving under the influence, no headlights, accident involving damage to attended vehicle or property and driving under suspension-DUI related; 60 days in prison, six months in the intermediate punishment program, $1,650 in fines, $100 SAEF payment, $60 restitution to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street and 10 hours community service. Prosecutors withdrew charges of obstructed window, stop sign violation and careless driving.

William M. Veach Jr., 38, of Shenandoah; delivery of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and theft; six to 23 months in prison, $100 in CJEA payments, $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew charges of possession of a controlled substance, defiant trespass and receiving stolen property.

Robert Wentworth, 24, of Shenandoah; two counts of delivery of a controlled substance and one of possession of a controlled substance; three to six months in prison, 12 months consecutive probation, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment, $176 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew two additional counts of possession of a controlled substance and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Dakota S. Whitman, 21, of Minersville; resisting arrest; 33 days to 12 months in prison and $50 CJEA payment. Prosecutors withdrew a charge of disorderly conduct.

Jack D. Wilver, 26, of Williamstown; two counts each of delivery of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility; six to 12 months in prison, 23 months consecutive probation, $200 in SAEF payments, $100 in CJEA payments, $226 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew two counts each of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

Jonathan M. Pauly, 22, of Pottsville; aggravated assault; one to two years in a state correctional institution, $50 CJEA payment and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew two additional counts of aggravated assault, three counts of simple assault, two of terroristic threats and one each of recklessly endangering another person and resisting arrest.

Anthony E. Polcheck Jr., 38, of McAdoo; retail theft and possession of drug paraphernalia; six to 23 months in prison, 12 months consecutive probation, $100 SAEF payment, $100 in CJEA payments, $69.54 restitution and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew charge of improper turning movements, conspiracy and receiving stolen property.

Also in the county court, Judge Charles M. Miller accepted guilty pleas from, and, pursuant to agreements between prosecutors and defendants, imposed the indicated sentences on, these people:

Tonia L. Brennan, 26, of Ringtown; theft; 23 months probation, $50 CJEA payment, $2,000 restitution and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew charges of receiving stolen property and criminal trespass.

George D. Brill Jr., 54, of Mahanoy City; indecent assault; sentencing deferred pending evaluation of defendant by the state Sexual Offenders Assessment Board.

Kayla Anne Culbert, 33, of Minersville; possession of a controlled substance; 12 months probation, $100 SAEF payment, $50 CJEA payment and $113 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem. Prosecutors withdrew charges of terroristic threats, endangering the welfare of children, recklessly endangering another person and harassment.

Thomas Dennington, 34, of Northampton; two counts each of criminal use of a communication facility and possession of a controlled substance; six to 23 months in prison, $200 in SAEF payments, $100 in CJEA payments, $460.20 in bench warrant fees, $226 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem and submission of a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities. Prosecutors withdrew two additional counts of delivery of a controlled substance and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.

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

n Ashland: The Ashland Area Community Choir will present “The Wonders of Christmas” on Sunday at the Church of the Nazarene on Route 901 in Lavelle. The concert will begin at 3 p.m. under the direction of Bruce McCormick, with Betty Chappel as accompanist. Freewill offerings will be accepted; all are welcome.

n Frackville: The Children & Youth Christmas party that was scheduled for today has been rescheduled for 4:30 to 6 p.m. Dec. 30 at First United Methodist Church, 25 S. Balliet St. People should call 570-874-0792 by today to register. The Living Nativity that was scheduled for today has been canceled. Call the aforementioned number for more information.

n Orwigsburg: Schaeffer’s Harley-Davidson and Schaeffer’s Motorsports are collecting gently used coats or sweaters until Friday. All donations collected will benefit local homeless shelters and neighbors in need. For more information, call 570-366-0143, ext. 710.

n Pottsville: The Pottsville Rotary Club recently hosted the following students of the month: Abby Schroding and Collin Starr of Pottsville Area, Elina Cassidy and Austin Schultz of Nativity BVM and Rebecca Andruchek, Matthew Horan, Emily Batashus and Justin Landers of Minersville Area. The students told Rotarians about their school and community activities and plans for the future.

n Pottsville: President John Maskerines and 24 members of the Pottsville Lions Club recently welcomed Lions District Governor Lawrence Williams of the Lehighton club to a meeting of the Pottsville Rotarians. According to the Lions bulletin, Williams praised the Pottsville Lions for their involvement in the community and the various service to which the Lions are committed. Williams mentioned the Pottsville club’s Pennies for People Campaign, the children’s Christmas movie, Toys for Tots and the annual Leo and Lions Club battle of the Hills basketball tournament. Williams visited the Pottsville club to introduce and appoint the Rev. Jack Murray, Saint Clair, as the Lions district chaplain and present him with his green jacket and Lions vest pocket as well as two special Lions pins denoting his commitment to the district. Murray is pastor of United Methodist Church, Gilberton, and has been a member of the Pottsville Lions for two years.

n Saint Clair: The Saint Clair Lions Club will sponsor a New Year’s Day pork-and-sauerkraut dinner from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the club hall, 259 McCord Ave. The cost is $8.50 per meal and the public is welcome. People may eat at the hall or take meals out. Local delivery will be available. For local delivery, to order or for more information, call 570-429-9939.

n Shenandoah: The borough council will hold a public hearing at 6:45 p.m. Monday in borough hall, 15 W. Washington St., to take testimony from the public on a request for an intermunicipal transfer of a liquor license from 18 N. Railroad St., Tamaqua, to 415 S. Main St., Shenandoah. The site in Shenandoah is the Valero gasoline station and convenience mart that was closed for several months due to ongoing construction to replace the nearby Gold Star Bridge. The work severely restricted ingress and egress to Valero. The Tamaqua site involves the Restaurant at the Station, the restored historic Tamaqua Train Station. There will be a resolution on the council’s meeting agenda following the hearing, allowing the council to approve or disapprove the transfer, according to a legal notice advertised by the council.

n Shenandoah: The Columbia Hose Company, 742 W. Centre St., will hold a First Responders Appreciation Night for fire, police and EMS personnel from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Jan. 21 at the firehouse. The kitchen will be open from 6 to 9 p.m. and disc jockey Mikey Mike will entertain from 7 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The cover charge is $3 but free for first responders with proper ID. There will also be $1 off a dozen of wings for first responders. Yuengling mug drafts will be available at $1 from 6 p.m. to midnight. There will also be Yuengling giveaways, door prizes and a 50/50 raffle. The event is for people 21 and older.

MAHANOY CITY — The Mahanoy Township supervisors formally adopted the 2017 general operating budget that increases real estate taxes by 3 mills.

The supervisors voted 3-0 at Thursday’s meeting for the spending plan, which was tentatively adopted at the November meeting. The tax millage in 2017 will increase from 9.09 to 12.09 mills.

A separate vote was held to adopt the ordinance to raise the millage rate. Supervisor Jason Dudash made the motion to adopt, seconded by Chairman James Stevens. Voting against was Vice Chairwoman Faith Ward.

The budget has total revenues at $447,887 and total expenditures at $447,397, leaving a surplus of $480.

The proposed tax increase was advertised in October after that month’s meeting before any budget adoptions were made to inform township residents about the plan. After that meeting, Stevens said an increase was considered in order to keep up with expenses and prevent fiscal problems in the future.

In his explanation, Stevens said the real estate tax had not increased in eight years, and it was in the township’s interest not to place itself in a detrimental financial position that other municipalities are facing.

The additional revenue will help meet some increased expenses now and in the future. Stevens said the police department has increased in recent years, and there are road projects that are needed that cannot completely be funded through the state liquid fuels annual allotment.

The budget estimates revenue from taxes — real estate, LST, per capita, earned income and realty transfer — at $336,300 ($295,500 in 2016), and licenses and permit fees, fines and interest income at $14,960 ($14,910 in 2016). Additional funds of $96,617 will come from other sources, including $40,300 from wind turbines (same as in 2016), for an overall total of $447,397. The revenue estimate for 2016 was $366,710.

The total estimated expenditures of $447,397 ($366,552 in 2016) are broken down as follows:

• General government — salaries, engineering fees, taxes, dues and building expenses: $98,582 ($99,852 in 2016).

• Public safety — police salaries and expenses, fire protection, planning/zoning/code enforcement and emergency management: $140,695 ($128,300 in 2016).

• Public works — sanitation, professional services; road crew wages and supplies, sewer enforcement, parks and insurance: $208,120 ($138,400 in 2016).

The liquid fuels budget is $109,850 ($90,349 in 2016) in revenue and $109,700 ($90,300 in 2016) in expenditures, leaving a surplus of $150.

Township secretary/treasurer Cheryl Backo read the ARRO Consulting Inc. engineering report from project manager William N. McMullen for activities from Nov. 16 to Dec. 13. McMullen reported that the storm drainage improvement in the villages of Morea and New Boston have been completed by Skytop Coal Co. ARRO instructed Skytop to forward all project and product documents and an invoice to the township for review and approval. McMullen wrote that an application for payment and the supporting documents have not been received at this time.

McMullen also provided the following code enforcement:

• No response was received from the owner of 41 High Road, Park Place, regarding the quality of life citations issued for the accumulation of animal waste on the property. Following consultations with Mahanoy Township solicitor Eric Lieberman, ARRO personnel are preparing non-traffic citations to be filed on the property owner with the local magisterial district judge.

• Enforcement actions have begun for the structure located at 121 Lower St., Morea. Certified mail was returned as unclaimed. Non-traffic citations will be filed regarding the unanswered violation.

• A list of potential structures for demolition has been compiled and submitted to the county for inclusion in an application for demolition funding.

In other matters, the supervisors approved the accounting firm of Jones and Co., Pottsville, to conduct the 2016 audit.

The supervisors appointed Stevens as a member of the Mahanoy Township Authority board. Stevens will serve on the water authority to fill the vacancy left by Sharon Chiao, whose term ends Dec. 31. The motion to appoint Stevens was made by Dudash, seconded by Stevens. Ward voted against the appointment.

Stevens thanked everyone who was involved the Christmas party held earlier this month by the township recreation committee. Stevens also thanked resident Kathy Sierdzinski for the donation of the live Christmas tree for the municipal building.

“We are still looking for volunteers for the recreation committee,” Stevens said. “People can stop in any time and let us know about their interest. All help will be appreciated.”

Stevens said the township road crew will collect Christmas trees from residents in January. Residents are asked to put their trees out and the crew will pick them up, weather-permitting.

Patrolman Jonathon Troyer gave the monthly police report, after which he reminded residents to be careful with ice and snow in the coming days.

The supervisors will hold their reorganization meeting at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 3, which will be immediately followed by the regular monthly meeting. The supervisors will not meet on Jan. 20. The next regular meeting will be Feb. 16. The supervisors also set the supervisors’ meeting dates on the third Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in 2017 at the municipal building, 1010 W. Centre St.

GIRARDVILLE — Dominick the Italian Christmas Donkey will return to Girardville on Sunday for the second time as part of an old-fashioned puppet show that will be a treat for children and adults.

The show created and performed by borough resident and artist Rosalie Rowan-Kuzma will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday in the Girardville municipal building, Fourth and B streets. Admission is free. The program is sponsored by Borough of Girardville.

Kuzma held her first show in 2015 in the borough council’s meeting room, which she dressed up with her own Christmas decoration. She did the same this year to give the room a holiday mood.

The program will have Kuzma dressed as Mrs. Claus telling the story from the song “Dominick the Donkey” made famous by singer Lou Monte. The record was released in 1960.

There are four main characters, including the introduction of Dominick’s son, Dominick Jr. Kuzma wanted to do something new this year to make it a bit different from the first show.

“What I did was to construct another Dominick the Donkey, almost identical to last year’s Dominick, only a slight bit larger.”

Kuzma said, “The story goes that in the past year, little Dominick grew up into an adult donkey, a daddy to be exact. They don’t stay babies forever, folks. Dominick Sr. now has a son, Dominick Jr. Gee, I hope the children don’t ask where the mommy donkey is. I’ll just tell them she’s a working mother and Dominick Sr. is babysitting Dominick Jr.”

In addition to the father and son donkey team, there are two other characters: Dominick’s loving and kindly owners, Giovanni and Sophia, a husband and wife team. Kuzma said Giovanni and Sophia are resurrections of Hansel and Gretel from a presentation in 2013.

The story involves Dominick being asked by Santa to help bring presents over Italy’s hills because the reindeer can’t climb them.

“So now, both senior and junior donkeys have joined forces, working together climbing the hills of Italy,” Kuzma said. “I’ve been making this year’s Dominick Sr. for the past two months non-stop. I’ve been up to my neck in papier-mache, glue, paint and all other sort of craft materials, and since I’m going to dress as Mrs. Claus, who is the puppeteer, for the presentation, I’ve been a slave to the sewing machine creating the perfect costume. Then when I thought I couldn’t fit in one more project, along comes a friend who expresses how much she always want to play the role of assistant elf, so I threw myself wholeheartedly into the creation of an elf outfit. My sewing machine is screaming for mercy. I’m the master of multi-tasking.”

Kuzma briefly explained the show during the recent meeting of the borough council and showed the public her marionette creation of Dominick Sr.

“The kids will be given quite a bit of things, like a coloring book and crayons, a coloring sheet with the lyrics to the song, drinks, snacks, cookies, candy and hot dogs,” Kuzma said. “The kids will sit on the floor in a semi-circle and there will be chairs for the parents. If you have any children or know of any children, please bring them out. It will be a really nice puppet show.”

“The seniors citizens will have food to serve, I also believe Santa Claus will be here, too,” council President Charles Marquardt said.

Motorists and passengers will notice some new designs on Schuylkill Transportation System buses next week.

Three buses will feature the patriotic colors of red, white and blue on the fixed bus routes. STS operates 10 fixed route buses Monday through Friday during specified times.

The first completed bus is expected to arrive Monday. The other two will follow later in the week.

“We are both very excited to introduce these vehicles to Schuylkill County,” David A. Bekisz, STS executive director, said in a statement.

It is a joint effort between STS and CACL Federal Credit Union, Pottsville, and is a result of an advertising agreement. This is the first time for the advertising campaign.

“The theme of the design is to pay tribute to our country and our armed forces while reminding the public of the services that both STS and CACL offer to them,” Bekisz said.

He hopes the public will enjoy the new vehicles and enjoy riding the buses. Bekisz thanked CACL, STS’s board of directors, STS’s staff and The Identity Group of Slatington, who were responsible for the production and installation of the wraps, for the teamwork in making this possible.

PORT CARBON — At the end of the summer, rats took up residence at a former home in Port Carbon, according to concerned citizens who brought the matter to the borough council Tuesday.

The problem is at 203 Jackson St., according to Tonya K. Joy, who resides next door.

Trudy Hennick, 209 Jackson St., presented the council with a petition signed by “more than 25 people” asking the borough to knock the building down.

“I’ve asked most of our neighbors to sign it because the rats are getting worse,” Hennick told the council.

After a discussion about the situation, the council gave its solicitor, William Burke, permission to contact the attorney representing the owner of the property.

According to the online Schuylkill Parcel Locator, 203 Jackson St. is owned by the Kintzer family, including Gary Kintzer, Lititz, Lancaster County.

“I got a phone call and contacted the borough workers and they put rat poison around the back porch and in the holes in the yard and even around the front porch. And I thought everything was taken care of. I thought that would have taken care of the problem,” council President Ray Steranko said.

“I did call, Mr. Steranko. And you were helpful. But it’s infested with rats,” said Joy, who is the sister-in-law of the borough’s mayor, Charles R. “Chuck” Joy.

Tonya Joy said members of her family have seen the rats on garbage bags.

“I was calling everybody to see if they can help. I understand there is a process you have to follow, but it is getting worse. It’s disgusting,” she said.

Tonya Joy said she had filed a complaint with the borough’s code enforcement officer, William P. Anders.

Anders has been in touch with Gary Kintzer and an attorney from Pottsville who has been hired to represent the Kintzer family and the estate, Edward Brennan, according to Sandra L. Palokas, the borough secretary/treasurer.

“Can you contact Ed Brennan? He’s the attorney for the estate,” Steranko asked Burke.

“I can do that,” Burke said.

“The place should be cleaned up,” Steranko said.

“We have to determine the ownership of the home,” Burke said.

Burke noted that the former home is near a Pottsville Area School District bus stop.

“We have to determine if this is an emergency. It sounds like it to me. And there’s a bus stop there. If it’s an emergency deemed by the code enforcement officer, the borough has been in there before and the borough secured it and the borough can unsecure it. The borough may have to gain access to it on an emergency basis. And if there are rats running around the neighborhood and it’s near a Pottsville Area School District bus stop, I would certainly deem this to be a situation where you need to gain access for an emergency,” Burke said.

“I would agree,” Steranko said.

“So, first, let me determine ownership and maybe we can get a hold of Bill Anders and if he agrees it’s a code enforcement emergency, we can try to gain access to see what can be done,” Burke said.

In other matters, the council approved its 2017 budget, a $1,068,465.31 spending plan. The tax rate will remain at 14.149 mills.

Council members present at Tuesday’s meeting included Steranko, council Vice President John Franko and councilmen Andy Palokas, Warren Thomas and Michael Welsh.

Council members Michael Quercia and Harold “Bucky” Herndon were absent from Tuesday’s meeting.

The council also decided to place liens on 317 Second St. and 19 Pike St. for delinquent sanitation bills.

In October, the Schuylkill County Tax Claim Bureau sold an industrial building that sits on the border of Port Carbon and Palo Alto. It’s located on two parcels on the east side of Coal Street. They were owned by John L. Miller Jr., Orwigsburg. The online Schuylkill Parcel Locator recognizes their history by including “Pottsville Bleach & Dye” in the address.

At a hearing Aug. 15, Judge Cyrus Palmer Dolbin dropped the back taxes and liens on the properties. At a sale Oct. 6, the opening bid on each parcel was $1,249, according to Angela D. Toomey, director of the Schuylkill County Tax Claim Bureau.

“The winning bid was $2,600 so that was the purchase price,” Toomey said Wednesday.

The winning bidder was Diab Hadeed, Allentown, Toomey said.

Recently, the Palo Alto Borough Council approved of the sale. On Tuesday, Port Carbon Borough Council decided to as well.

“The local municipality does have the opportunity to object and disapprove of these sales. I don’t know what council’s pleasure is. But from what information I have, there is no plan to remediate this property that’s blighted and fire damaged,” Burke told the council.

“What will happen with the property with the way it is now if it’s sold?” asked the mayor.

“If it’s sold, it will be under private ownership and there’s no plans to rehabilitate the property from what I was told,” Burke said.

“What about razing it?” the mayor asked.

“I haven’t been informed of that. I heard it was potentially there just for an investment to be sold to a subsequent buyer. I did not speak to the bidder personally,” Burke said.

Councilman Welsh, who is the borough fire chief, recommended the board accept the sale.

“I don’t believe Miller’s going to do anything with the building. Maybe we have a chance, a 50-50 chance, they’ll do something with the building. It’s better than none. The way it stands now, it’s not going anywhere. If somebody does buy it, there might be a chance they might rip it down or they might not,” Welsh said.

“Even just to clean it up. What do you think? Roll the dice?” Steranko asked.

“If Palo Alto signed off on it, I’ll make a motion to approve the sale,” Welsh said. The motion was carried unanimously by all members of the board in attendance.

But a motion to hire a per diem snow plow driver was not.

“I’d like to make a motion to hire Tom McCabe as a per diem plow driver,” Palokas said.

“Is that pending a background check and physical?” Burke asked.

Steranko made sure it was.

As a per diem plow driver, McCabe will be paid $12.73 per hour, Sandy Palokas said.