U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright, D-17, Moosic, wants to “root out a reprehensible type of scam” afflicting vulnerable veterans.

A bill, which he introduced, passed this week in the U.S. House and would bring about rules that could thwart the efforts of people pretending to be financial advisers helping housebound veterans obtain benefits, charging fees for a phony service.

“I’m very happy to announce this morning we secured bipartisan passage, in the House, next the Senate, of HR 3122 The Veterans Care Financial Protection Act,” Cartwright said during a conference call Thursday. “This is a bipartisan, bicameral, commonsense proposal to protect our nation’s veterans from financial scams.”

The bill calls on the Veterans Administration to coordinate with other federal, state and outside agencies to come up with and implement standards that would protect elderly or disabled veterans from predatory practices disguised as financial advice.

The impetus for the bill was the abuse of an Aid & Attendance benefit for veterans who qualify for a VA pension who also need financial help with in-home care or assisted living.

“Unfortunately, what has come to our attention is there is a number of unscrupulous actors who are aware of this benefit and (use it) to prey upon our older veterans’ vulnerability,” Cartwright said.

While the A&A application is free, scam artists have offered advice and help to veterans with the application process and charged them fees. Cartwright said that he was aware of a case where the victim paid $800 for the unneeded service.

“It doesn’t cost anything to sign up for this benefit,” Cartwright said, adding that if someone needs help with an application, they can find it with the American Legion and other organizations.

The pecuniary predation goes further than that, however. With the information gained from the application process, scammers can take a hold of the veteran’s assets, and may even move them into an irrevocable trust or an annuity. This movement of assets may also disqualify the veteran from other assistance, such as Medicaid.

“This is the last thing we want to see happen to our American heroes,” Cartwright said.

The bill itself does not impose any measures, but requires the VA to quickly do so and calls for a Government Accountability Office report in 18 months after the bill’s enactment on the effectiveness of the measures. The onus is on the VA firstly, and the U.S. Department of Justice and state agencies.

Asked if the standards could impose penalties and fines, Cartwright said, “I would envision both of those things coming into play.”

He did not know how often the scams occur, the bill having originated in the U.S. House Committee on Veterans Affairs, being prompted by frequent complaints from victims, more so than from law enforcement reports.

The bill was passed Monday unanimously in the House and Cartwright, confident of passage in the Senate, praised his colleagues.

“Scam artists are turning well-deserved benefits into a financial nightmare for those who can least afford it,” he said. “This bipartisan, commonsense proposal will help protect veterans from financial scams. We owe this to our nation’s heroes. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to encourage them to act quickly on passage.”

Cartwright represents the state’s 17th Congressional District, which includes Schuylkill County and portions of Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe and Northampton counties. Cartwright serves on the House Committee on Appropriations and the Committee for Oversight and Government Reform.

Contact the writer: bsmith@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6005

A local high school acting group is set to humor audiences with their rendition of a comedy of errors next

weekend.

The Blue Mountain High School Drama Club will perform “Rumors: A Farce” at 7 p.m. Nov. 17 and 18 and 2 p.m. Nov. 19 at Blue Mountain High School auditorium, Orwigsburg. Tickets are $3 for seniors and students and $5 for adults.

The play, written by Neil Simon, originally debuted on Broadway on Nov. 17, 1988, according to director Michael Shoupe. The school’s first performance of the play just so happens to fall on the production’s 29th anniversary.

It is set in late ’80s at the residence of Charlie, the deputy mayor of New York City, and his wife, Myra, on the night of their 10th wedding anniversary celebration. Then, the first guests — Chris and Ken Gorman — arrive and realize something is amiss; Charlie is bleeding from a gunshot wound to the earlobe, and Myra is MIA.

“Hilarity ensues as more and more party guests arrive, and Chris and Ken try to keep the scandal a secret. The play is called ‘Rumors’ because each couple has secrets they’d rather keep quiet,” Shoupe said.

The play revolves around the comedy presented absurdly and quickly, and is derived from miscommunications, mistaken identities and a bit of slapstick, according to Shoupe.

“One character suffers from whiplash, another from back spasms, another from temporary deafness,” he said.

The cast consists of Alexis Washko as Chris Gorman; Adam Moyer as Ken Gorman; Abigail Smith as Claire Ganz; Adam Moyer as Lenny Ganz; Raven Wesley as Cookie Cusack; James Stone as Ernie Cusack; Sequoia Gawlik as Cassie Cooper; Derek DaSilva as Glenn Cooper; Ryan Snopek as Officer Welch; and Sydney Boyer as Officer Pudney.

“I like doing comedies for the fall plays. We have a group of kids here at Blue Mountain that are just naturally funny, and I want to showcase that. People love to laugh, so comedies always work well,” Shoupe said.

Shoupe said he wanted to bring the play to Blue Mountain because it isn’t well know.

“I like doing things that are a little off the beaten path. Last year, I heard nothing but great things about our production ‘Harvey.’ I’m sure ‘Rumors’ will be received just as well. We have a handful of kids returning from that production, and they are doing a fantastic job,” he said.

For more information about the play, call Shoupe at the high school at 570-366-0511, ext. 2121.

Contact the writer: dprosick@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6002

HEGINS — Sgt. First Class Craig A. Morgan called out to Logan Yoder, Ashton Buchanan and several members of the Bulldog varsity football team seated in the high school auditorium.

Morgan, a technical inspector for the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs at Fort Indiantown Gap, delivered the keynote address Friday during the 16th annual Veterans Day program at Tri-Valley High School.

Morgan showed a video image of the pee wee football team he had once coached before being deployed overseas. The pee wee players, some who are now members of the high school squad, held up a sign that read, “Thank you for our freedom, coach.”

Morgan, Hegins, said the team had sent a signed shirt, signed poster and care packages to him that meant so much.

“I wanted to thank you guys,” Morgan, who had served in the National Guard in Germany, Iraq, Egypt and Kuwait, said.

A common theme veterans attending the program shared was the importance of having support from home and from their comrades in arms. Friday’s program gave them an opportunity to reconnect with fellow veterans and enjoy a free luncheon prepared in their honor by students in the school’s home economics and consumer science department, under the guidance of teacher Kaitlyn Olson.

About 60 people, including veterans and their spouses, participated in the luncheon, which was a record number, according to Ronald Radel, a member of the school’s history and social studies department, which coordinates the annual event. Students offered patriotic readings, instrumental and choral selections, and the Boy Scouts presented the service flags of each military branch. Teacher Ryan Wagner announced the school would hold its Warrior Challenge again this year, a fundraiser for the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors. The obstacle course-style event raised $10,000 last year and will be held Dec. 22 in the high school gym.

Rep. Mike Tobash, R-125, Pottsville, offered opening remarks. He said he was proud of what the community is doing to honor its veterans.

“The idea of appreciation and reverence is driven home,” Tobash said.

He said his late grandfather was in the Army and his late father had served in the Navy.

Morgan said he wanted to show students a part of the world that not too many people really know about. In his video, he showed images of Egypt and his travels to Israel.

After multiple desert deployments, Morgan said he’d had enough of the “wet sand and garbage” smell. He saw the Red Sea, Jordan River and the Sphinx.

“I saw it once and don’t want to go back again,” he said.

Navy Vietnam veteran Dennis Messner was able to share the luncheon with his granddaughter, Rebecca Witmer, a Tri-Valley senior, and said he appreciated the meal and camaraderie. He’s been attending the program for the past four years.

“You don’t find very many places that do this,” Messner, Valley View, said.

“It’s companionship, a good meal and a good program afterward,” Frank Reinoehl, an Army veteran from Valley View, said. His wife, Sally, joined him.

Carol Hoy attended with her husband, Carl Hoy, an Army Vietnam veteran.

“It’s a nice tribute to the veterans and shows them that people care,” she said.

Carl Hoy had been part of a veterans program at Mahantongo Valley Elementary School in Klingerstown the day before.

“It was very uplifting what they did to show respect for the American flag and to veterans,” he said.

Carl Hoy said while some people may see red, white and blue when they look at the flag, what most veterans see is “our fallen comrades and our POWs.”

“It does bring back memories,” he said.

Carl Hoy, who works as a school bus driver, had an opportunity Friday to catch up with Jerry Pritchett, Pottsville, another Vietnam veteran. Pritchett, a retired Army major, works as a substitute teacher in the district. He and Hoy had both worked at State Correctional Institution/Frackville at one time. Both spoke of their shared experiences of military service and how it taught discipline and responsibility.

Morgan enlisted in the National Guard on Feb. 23, 1991. He served in Germany, assigned to European Command for force protection as a team leader; and in Iraq in January 2004 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom where he served as a motor transport operator. While in Iraq, Morgan saw conflict in places such as Mosul, Najaf and Sauder City. He spent nine months in and around Fallujah during the height of the Iraqi insurgency.

In November 2007, he was sent to Egypt in support of Operation Enduring Freedom with the 1st 104th cavalry unit. This tour took him to the Sinai Peninsula for Multinational Force and observation as a cavalry scout. While there, he completed his warrior leader course.

In 2011, between deployments, Morgan completed his advanced leadership course at Fort Indiantown Gap and, in October 2012, deployed again to the Middle East, this time in Kuwait.

Morgan has been recognized both by the PA National Guard and the Army for his achievements. Some of these awards include Combat Action Badge, three Army Commendation Medals, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Multinational Force and Observers Medal Army Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, and the 20-year Service Medal.

In October 2016, Morgan completed a senior leadership course in Fort Dix, New Jersey, and was promoted to platoon sergeant in the 721st HCT Company out of Fort Indiantown Gap.

Morgan and his wife, Jennifer, have three children, Kaitlin, Jordyn and Cameron.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6007

Penn State Schedule

S2 vs. Akron, W 52-0

S9 vs. Pittsburgh, W 33-14

S16 vs. Georgia State, W 56-0

S23 at Iowa, W 21-19

S30 vs. Indiana, W 45-14

O6 at Northwestern, W 31-7

O20 vs. Michigan, W 42-13

O27 at Ohio State, L 39-38

N4 at Michigan State, L 27-24

N11 vs. Rutgers, Noon

N18 vs. Nebraska, TBD

N25 at Maryland, TBD

POTTSVILLE — Residents are invited to Humane Fire Company on Tuesday to learn the results of a city survey taken earlier this year.

“This is the first of three public meetings that will be taking place,” Savas Logothetides, vice president of Pottsville Business Association and interim director of the Pottsville Area Development Corp., said Thursday.

Dates for the other meetings have not been announced.

The 7 p.m. meeting will be an opportunity for people to ask questions about the results of the survey. In all, 286 responses were received. The survey was mentioned at the monthly Pottsville Business Association meeting Thursday.

The survey is one of the first phases of the joint effort of the Pottsville Business Association, the city and Pottsville Area Development Corp. for a community-based vision, market analysis and strategic plan for the city.

The answers provided in the survey will help create the downtown plan. There are four categories: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

Questions focus on topics such as the advantages of downtown Pottsville, available, unique or lowest-cost resources, and reasons for a business to locate to the downtown. Another section asks for those taking the survey to identify any opportunities or trends downtown Pottsville could expand on.

In the weakness category, the questions include: what are residents and visitors likely to see as shortcomings, what could Pottsville improve, and what type of businesses are lacking? It also asks about obstacles Pottsville businesses may face and threats to downtown businesses.

In other matters, the PBA is sponsoring Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25.

The theme is Christmas in the City with the following downtown: An Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; a vendor fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Arch Street; events at the Pottsville Free Public Library from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and events at the Majestic Theater. The Schuylkill County Historical Society also has an event during the weekend. There are 12 confirmed vendors for the vendor fair.

On Dec. 15, there is a event called Beer Bottle on the Business from 5 to 9 p.m. For $5, people get a wristband and ride around to different sites in the city aboard the Pottsville trolley on a type of scavenger hunt to find a hidden bottle of Yuengling beer. Half of the proceeds go to the Pennies for People drive, where pennies are collected from the community. The Pennies for People drive is sponsored by the Pottsville Lions Club. The donations that are received through the Pennies for People drive go to the Schuylkill County Food Distribution Network for the less fortunate. The remainder of the $5 for Beer Bottle on the Business goes toward the PBA. Each stop along the way is going to have a letter associated with it. The letters will make a Christmas phrase participants have to unscramble. Exact details have not been finalized yet.

Contact the writer: ; 570-628-6028

Mar Lin man cited

for 3-vehicle crash

NEW RINGGOLD — Three people suffered suspected minor injuries in a three-vehicle crash about 5:25 p.m. Wednesday at Summer Valley Road and Church Street in East Brunswick Township.

State police at Frackville said the crash occurred as Melvin P. Hoffman, 70, of Mar Lin, was driving a 2007 Freightliner Century east on Summer Valley Road, Route 895, when he ran into the back of a 2016 Toyota Tacoma driven by Michael F. Barr Jr., 38, of Kelayres, who stopped in the eastbound lane waiting to make a turn onto Church Street.

The Hoffman truck continued and struck a 2007 Ford F150 that was being driven west by Henry T. Clay, 50, of Leesport.

Police said Barr and Clay were taken to a Pottsville hospital by New Ringgold EMS for treatment while Hoffman was taken to a Pottsville hospital by a family member.

New Ringgold firefighters assisted at the scene and police said as a result of the crash, Hoffman will be cited for not driving on roadways laned for traffic.

Port Carbon

First United Methodist Church is planning for a Christmas bazaar to be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 18. The event will be a vendor/craft fair and organizers are seeking vendors and crafters to participate. Food will also be available during the fair. To participate or for more information, call 570-622-4634.

Pottsville

St. Patrick Roman Catholic Parish Scouts, Pack 615, will sponsor a veterans brunch at noon Sunday at the parish center. For more information, call 570-516-0107.

Pottsville

An American Red Cross blood drive is set for 2 to 7 p.m. Nov. 28 at Life Center Foursquare Church, 2300 Mahantongo St. People 17 and older (16 with parental consent), weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health are urged to donate blood. To make an appointment or for more information, call 800-733-2767.

Pottsville

Providence Place Senior Living, 2200 First Ave., will have a Soup-er Hero Community Event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 18 featuring chicken rice, beef vegetable and Italian wedding soups at $2 per quart. The event will also include a free cup of soup and half a ham sandwich for all EMTs, police officers and firefighters. All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. For more information, call 570-624-4660.

Pottsville

The Pottsville Area High School Drama Club will have a 15 Years of Musical Memories celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 18 in the banquet all of The Pottsville Zone, 337 Peacock St. Tickets are $25 each, which includes appetizers and desserts. There will be a cash bar. Seniors will sing selections from Pottsville Area’s past 15 musicals. For more information, call 570-691-4602 or 570-495-0979.

Sacramento

A Chinese auction to benefit the Pam Harner Huhn family, sponsored by family and friends, will be held beginning at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 19 at the Sacramento Firehouse, 2206 E. Main St. Tickets are $5 a sheet. There will also be special tickets and a 50/50 drawing. Shopping will be from 10:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. with drawings at 2:30 p.m. Baked goods and refreshments will be sold. Items will include handmade themed baskets, gift certificates for surrounding businesses, American Girl doll and Keurig coffee maker. Proceeds will go to the Huhn family to help with expenses in Pam Huhn’s cancer fight. Anyone willing to donate a prize, monetary gift or their time should call 570-516-1320 or 570-590-5315.

Saint Clair

Holy Apostles Episcopal Church, 307 E. Hancock St., will have a Thanksgiving dinner Nov. 23 with deliveries at 11 a.m., takeouts at noon and eat-ins at 1 p.m. People must RSVP by Nov. 16. For more information, call 570-429-2272 or 570-429-7107.

Saint Clair

Chizmar’s, 415 S. Second St., is a pickup site for apple and marble pound cakes in conjunction with a sale by St. Peter Church. For more information, call Doris Chizmar at 570-429-0303.

Tamaqua

Raiders STEP Up and Safer Streets for Tamaqua’s Little Feet will host “Drugs 101: What Every Parent Needs to Know,” at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16 in the Tamaqua Area Athletic Center. There will be several guest speakers, including Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro and former NFL player Vance Johnson. The event is part of a continuing drug prevention effort. For more information, call 570-668-1901, Ext. 2220, or email camiller@tamaqua.k12.pa.us.

Tamaqua

A Miller-Keystone blood drive will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday at Tamaqua Area High School, 500 Penn St. The nonprofit Miller-Keystone, according to a release, is the only blood provider for hospitals in Lehighton and Palmerton as well as Schuylkill Health System, the Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke’s University Health Network. For more information about the Tamaqua drive, call 570-668-1901, Ext. 2060.

POTTSVILLE — At their weekly meeting Thursday, the Schuylkill County commissioners approved 10 budget adjustments for 2017, as well as numerous contracts, primarily for providers of human services.

While some of the budget adjustments are large, including $689,554 for the Office of Senior Services, county Finance Director Paul Buber said all but one are transfers between line items and do not involve additional spending.

“It’s not unusual to have this many budget adjustments,” Buber said.

Furthermore, he said, the senior services money all comes from the state and involves moving cash saved in some programs to help fund others.

The exception that involves additional spending is an extra $10,000 for constables.

“It’s very hard to predict” the money that will be needed for constables, Buber said.

The other budget adjustments involve the following departments and amounts: Clerk of Courts, $2,780; Courts, $1,000; Drug & Alcohol, $2,150; Emergency Management, $120,000; Magisterial District Judges, $375; Prison, $1,000; Public Defender’s Office, $1,051; and Public Works/Maintenance, $5,000

Contracts approved will cover July 1, 2017, through June 30, 2018. They included the following pacts:

• United Methodist Home for Children, Mechanicsburg, for the IL Preparation Program at per unit rates of $30.14 for residents and $33.41 for nonresidents.

• Ed’s U-Store-It, Pottsville, for a storage unit at a per unit rate of $89.10.

• Language Line Services, Monterey, California, for language interpretation at per unit rates of $0.75 for Spanish and $1.10 for all other languages.

• New Foundations, Philadelphia, for emergency foster care for children through age 12 at a per diem rate of $53.68, general level foster care at a per diem rate of $63.68 and treatment/specialized level at a per diem rate of $81.23.

• Valley Youth House, Lehigh Valley, for independent living base care at a per diem rate of $99.56, IL pregnant teen care at a per diem rate of $150.47 and Lehigh Valley Shelter at a per diem rate of $173.59.

• Pediatric Specialty Care, Lancaster, for room and board at a per diem rate of $140.80.

• Avanco International, Fairfax, Virginia, for CAPS support at a per unit rate of $33,777.98. That contract will run from Oct. 1 through June 30, 2018.

• Y. Kim Architects, Pottsville, $89,700 for proposed renovations to the Human Services Building, 410 N. Centre St. , Pottsville.

In addition, the commissioners approved an addendum to the contract with Mullin & Lonergan to complete the environmental review and technical assistance for the Reilly Township contract for the Community Development Block Grant program and adopted a resolution approving the submission of a modification of the 2015 CDBG program for Shenandoah replacing a street improvement project.

Also, the commissioners approved renewals of seven leases for the postage machines at the magisterial district judges offices. Each lease will run for five years, effective Jan. 29, 2018, at a monthly rate of $53.22 per month per machine, making the total yearly cost at each office $638.64.

Those offices are for each of the county’s magisterial district judges: Stephen J. Bayer, Tamaqua; James R. Ferrier, Orwigsburg; Christina E. Hale, Frackville; Anthony J. Kilker, Shenandoah; David A. Plachko, Port Carbon; James K. Reiley, Pottsville; and David J. Rossi, Tremont.

Contact the writer: pbortner@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6014

SHENANDOAH — The students of Trinity Academy honored those who served in all branches of the armed forces during a special Veterans Day prayer service on Friday.

The service was across the street from the school in Divine Mercy Roman Catholic Church and was led by the eighth-grade students.

The program began with eighth-grader Chloe Londono giving a history of Veterans Day: “The celebration of Veterans Day in the United States of America can be traced back to Nov. 11, 1919, and was first known as Armistice Day. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Armistice Day so that all Americans could remember the sacrifices made by the millions of soldiers who fought in World War I.”

She said Nov. 11 was chosen because the armistice, or peace agreement, went into effect the year before at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month. The armistice ended World War I.

“In 1954, the United States government changed the name to Veterans Day to include soldiers of World War II and the Korean War,” Londono said. “Since that time, United States soldiers have defended our country in the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Veterans Day offers us an opportunity to thank those we know who currently serve or have served in the United States military and tell these men and women how much we appreciate their service so can continue to live in freedom.”

Ten veterans who attended the prayer service processed down the center aisle to the front of the church through an honor guard gauntlet of kindergartners holding handcrafted paper American flags as the eighth-grade students sang the national anthem accompanied on the organ by eighth-grade teacher Susan Klinger.

Seated in the first two pews, the veterans were seated close to two tables that held framed photos and other items showing some in their military uniforms. Attending the prayer service were veterans Tom Snyder, Shoemakersville, Army; Lawrence Madden, Ashland, Army; Brian Rooney, Shenandoah, Army; Rick Kenton, Frackville, Navy; Charles Gownley, Mahanoy Plane, Army; Thomas Turo, Frackville, Army; Ed Krusinsky, Shenandoah, Navy; William Krusinsky, Shenandoah, Coast Guard; John Harkins, Shenandoah, Army; and Stephen Chatcavage, Shenandoah Heights, Navy.

The following opening prayer was said: “Dear Jesus, you said, ‘There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ We gather today and ask you, Lord, to bless and protect all those men and women who have, in their military service, sacrificed their time, strength, ambition, health and even their lives on this earth to benefit friends,’ known and unknown. We honor all our veteran in your name. We thank you, as we thank them, for their faithful service. Amen.”

Next was a video presentation tribute to the veterans, followed by the playing of taps by eighth-grader Ace Christian. Then the students held a commissioning of veterans, where each service branch — Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard and their respective Reserve — was announced, with a different student holding the seal for the branch, and veterans who served in that branch came to the front.

All in the church stood and sang the Armed Forces March: “Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, too, help keep us free. Our Armed Forces guard and protect our right to liberty.”

The kindergarten honor guard set up again along the center aisle for the veterans as they left the church while everyone sang “God Bless America.”

Sister Margaret MucCullough, IHM, principal, spoke to the children after the prayer service ended.

“The men and women you saw today are people who had to sacrifice to protect our country,” MucCullough said. “But right now, all throughout the world, there are new men and women who are protecting us. So every night when we go to bed and you pray for your mom and dad, and your teacher and classmates, remember to pray for all the soldiers who are protecting our country around the world.”

In addition to Londono and Christian, other eighth-grade students participating were Tiara Alicea, Abagail Artz, Morgan Brennan, Haili Conrad, Grace Curnow, Katelynn Frantz, Alexandra Martinez, John Milosh, Nathalie Nunez, Zachary Pribish, Kelly Riel, Lliam Sanphy, Kelly Sullivan, Juan Tovar and Allison Velazco.

The veterans were invited to a reception in the school’s cafeteria, where they were served refreshments by students. Children could ask to get their photos taken with veterans.

Contact the writer: jusalis@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023

SHENANDOAH — Veterans Day has been an important holiday at Shenandoah Valley High School for many years in honoring veterans, with this year honoring one of its own who made the ultimate sacrifice in the 1960s.

Each year the school district has held Veterans Day programs in the school auditorium, allowing the students to attend and learn more about the dedicated men and women from the Shenandoah area who served in military service during war and peacetime.

This year’s program had a special focus on BM3 Ronald P. Yuhas, a 1966 graduate of Shenandoah High School who enlisted in the Navy. He was killed in action during the Vietnam War on Feb. 23, 1969. BM3 is a rank of petty officer third class with the duties of a boatswain’s mate. Yuhas is the first and only veteran from Shenandoah High School who was killed in action in Vietnam and is the second serviceman from Shenandoah who was killed during the war.

The program opened with an introduction by sophomore Darren Krill, who was the moderator and narrator.

“On behalf of the students, faculty and administration of Shenandoah Valley High School, I would like to extend a hearty welcome to our honored guests, the Consolidated Veterans of the Shenandoah Area,” Krill said. “Today we acknowledge the veterans who answered the call to defend our country and preserve the freedom that they have insured for future generations of Americans. Your sacrifices and commitment are the legacies we seek to emulate and may your example inspire us to do all that we can to keep our country strong and free. May God continue to bless this wonderful country of ours.”

After the introduction, the traditional ringing of the chimes was done, which commemorates the signing of the armistice that ended World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.

“As we pause in silent meditation, our thoughts and prayer are with those brave men and women who participated in every major war, past and present, who sacrificed so much in the service of their country. And now, the ringing of the chimes,” Krill said.

The chimes were rung in the lobby 11 times.

The Shenandoah Valley Band under the direction of John Shoener played the national anthem, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the invocation by Bruce Popalis, chaplain of the American Legion Anthony P. Damato Medal of Honor Post 792, Shenandoah.

The MIA remembrance was conducted with SV teacher and veteran Michael Elchisak carrying a folded American flag down the center aisle to the front of the stage where a display was created with a MIA-POW flag and an empty chair. Elchisak was accompanied by teacher and veteran Justin Berger and senior Noelle Davis, who will enter the Marine Corps after graduation.

The welcome was given by Shenandoah Mayor Andrew Szczyglak, who has participated in the program for the past five years.

“My message has always been the same and will be same today. My message is thankful,” Szczyglak said. “Thankfulness to a community, to a country where we live free. Thankfulness for the freedom of opportunities to advance ourselves, to be whatever we want to be in life. Freedom to make our own decisions, and that freedom is because of these gentlemen sitting here today.”

Szczyglak asked the students that when the program was over to meet with the veterans and thank them for their service.

Legion post Commander William Boychak gave the opening remarks, thanking everyone who took the time to attend the program. Boychak recognized Army veteran Paul Crane, a resident of Texas who was in attendance.

Boychak’s remarks gave a history of taps and read the lyrics to the song.

After a musical tribute to the songs of each military branch, the guest speaker was introduced, Albert Bindie, who is a 1960 graduate of Shenandoah High School and 1964 graduate of Penn State University with a degree in business administration. He later attended American University where he earned a master’s degree in Southeast Asian Language and Studies, was recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), where he served as an special information officer for 27 years with assignments in Africa, Middle East and Southeast Asia with service in Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. He was inducted into the Shenandoah Valley Wall of Fame Class of 2012.

“To you, our military veterans and active service members, I say thank you for your sacrifices and services,” Bindie said. “At a time that we have no draft and our military force is composed solely of volunteers who engage in conflicts in the Middle East, South Asia, Africa and other areas where the global war on terrorism is being waged, the significance of voluntary military service takes on an added importance.”

Bindie noted the honoring of Yuhas in a special way.

“Today, in addition to honoring our veterans, we are also acknowledging the sacrifice of Ronnie Yuhas, a graduate of this school who lost in life in Vietnam,” Bindie said. “Whereas on Memorial Day that we honor the military personnel who gave their lives in service to this country, recognizing Ronnie on Veterans Day, which is intended to honor all those who served in the United States military in any capacity, is still appropriate. We have to understand that Ronnie never had the chance to return home to his family, never had the chance to go to college, get married, to have children, and enjoy life in this great country. It’s about 50 years since that fatal day, we still remember Ronnie by his family members and classmates who remember him fondly.”

Popalis returned to the microphone and read the requiem roll call of local veterans who have died in the past year. Following taps, Krill announced the formal dedication of the banner to honor Yuhas would begin. The Legion post sold banners that had the name and photo of a veteran and purchased by family and friends. The “Friends of Ronald Yuhas” contributed to purchasing a banner, but collected enough money to purchase two banners. One banner is displayed at Main and Centre streets in downtown Shenandoah. The second banner has been given to the school district to be displayed in the school for all students to remember an alumni who gave his life in service to the country.

Retired Shenandoah Valley teacher Robert Yudinsky came to the podium to speak about Yuhas.

“As publicity director for the Shenandoah Valley School District, I try to make the public aware of some of the impressive accomplishments performed by both our students and distinguished alumni,” Yudinsky said. “Last November while attending the annual Veterans Day program, I was quite moved by a student’s essay written as a tribute to the men and women who answered the call to serve and defend our country. As a former history teacher who taught an elective on America’s wars, I drifted back to one particular lesson dealing with the Vietnam War where mention was made of the first two individuals from Shenandoah to die in that conflict. The first was Dennis Witcoski, a 1964 graduate of Shenandoah Catholic who served with the U.S. Army, and Ronald Yuhas, a 1966 graduate from Shenandoah High School who enlisted in the U.S. Navy. I personally never knew either of these patriots, but my students seemed particularly interested in the former Blue Devil, Ron Yuhas. On my bulletin board I had a copy of the article which appeared in The Republican-Herald in 1996 titled “Vietnam Valor” written by Kathryn Campomizzi-Clews. She went on to describe the circumstances surrounding his death and the horrific experience of his mother watching the nightly news and seeing her son’s vessel take a direct hit, and blow up right before her very eyes. Suddenly it occurred to me that 48 years have passed since he became one of the 58,220 Americans to die in that conflict. Many Americans had difficulty understanding why we were involved in a war 7,000 miles away, and when news was received that someone had died, he or she was mourned by family and friends and then they became a statistic without a name or a face. While in attendance at that Veterans’ program, a strange feeling that more accurately may be described as an obsession came over me, and I felt the need to make people aware of just who this member of our community was by sharing recollections from people who knew him.”

Those recollections came from former head football coach Frank Ulicny, who remembered Yuhas as a tough kid, a great athlete, and one of the most unselfish players he ever coached. Ulicny recalled how he originally wanted him to be a running back, but with a shortage of linemen, Yuhas, who he called “Yuzzie,” unselfishly volunteered to play the line because he felt it was in the best interest of the team.

Other recollections came from friends, Ed Krusinsky, Gene Jacavage, Guy Julian and Bob Shustack. SV student Leanne Rooney read part of the dedication remarks.

“His fiancée, Elaine, described him as the All-American Boy, quite handsome with a smile that lit up the room,” Rooney said. “He was kind, loving, caring, with a great sense of humor, and a personality that made him popular with everyone who knew him. It saddens me to think that he was taken away too soon.

“Ron was born on Christmas Day 1948 and would have been 68 years old today had he not lost his life 49 years ago on Feb. 27, 1969,” Rooney continued. “At the request of his family, he was buried in the American Military Cemetery on the island of Guam where he lies in repose with his fellow honored dead. In the lobby of the Shenandoah Valley High School there is a trophy case that bears the name of this Shenandoah High School alumnus who was the first from the school to die in the Vietnam War. To the people who knew him, he will never be forgotten and to future generations may he always be remembered for the sacrifice he made for our country. Rest in peace Ron and may God bless you, your family, and your friends as they continue to mourn your passing and cope with your loss.”

The banner was brought out on stage by students Jason Najunas and Hunter Breznik.

Before the veterans program began, the Legion post held a flag retirement at the Columbia Hose Company, across the street from the high school. The post members, assisted by fire company members, retired hundreds of old and worn flags by fire with honor and respect.

Contact the writer: jusalis@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023

POTTSVILLE — A Barnesville man returned to prison Wednesday after a Schuylkill County judge sentenced him in a drug-related case.

David R. Zerby Jr., 28, must serve six to 12 months in prison, Judge John E. Domalakes ruled after revoking Zerby’s probation.

Domalakes also revoked Zerby’s parole in a second case involving an unlicensed firearm.

“You are a recidivist,” Domalakes told Zerby, who sat through the hearing wearing a prison jumpsuit. The judge also said he needed to impose the prison sentence in order to provide Zerby a structured environment and to vindicate the court’s authority.

Zerby admitted violating his probation and parole by failing to report to his supervising officer, failing to attend treatment and not making payments on his costs and fees.

He originally pleaded guilty on June 17, 2015, to carrying a firearm without a license, with prosecutors withdrawing a second count of that offense along with charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a license. At that time, Domalakes sentenced him to serve 48 days to 12 months in prison and pay costs and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account.

Pottsville police charged Zerby with possessing the unlicensed gun on Jan. 3, 2015, in the city.

Then on Feb. 22, Zerby pleaded guilty to possession of drug paraphernalia, with prosecutors withdrawing a charge of possession of a controlled substance. At that time, Domalakes placed him on 12 months probation, and also sentenced him to pay costs, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $176 restitution to the state police crime laboratory in Bethlehem.

Pottsville police charged Zerby in that case with possessing the paraphernalia on July 22, 2016, also in the city.

In another Wednesday case, Domalakes revoked the probation of Rachael Pleva-Sanko, 39, of Shenandoah, for a second time and sentenced her to spend three to 12 months in prison, pay costs and a $50 bench warrant fee, and undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation.

Pleva-Sanko admitted violating her probation by failing to report to her supervising officer, committing new crimes and not making payments on her costs and fees.

“It appears that you do have a substance abuse problem,” Domalakes told the defendant, who wore a prison jumpsuit during the hearing. “We are very concerned about that.”

Pleva-Sanko, who agreed with the judge that she has a substance abuse problem, originally pleaded guilty on Sept. 23, 2015, to possession of drug paraphernalia, with prosecutors withdrawing charges of possession of a controlled substance and conspiracy. At that time, Domalakes placed her on probation for 12 months, and also sentenced her to pay costs, a $100 SAEF payment and a $50 CJEA payment.

West Mahanoy Township police charged Pleva-Sanko with possessing the paraphernalia on Feb. 5, 2015, in the township.

Domalakes revoked her probation on May 31, 2016, but placed her back on probation for another 12 months.

Also on Wednesday, Senior Judge D. Michael Stine dismissed a charge of indirect criminal contempt, which is contempt committed outside the courtroom, against Britt J. Berger, 29, of Lake Wynonah, Auburn, when the alleged victim did not appear for the hearing.

“She does not intend to come back to Pennsylvania,” Assistant District Attorney A.J. Serina told Stine.

Orwigsburg police charged Berger with violating a protection from abuse order on Oct. 17. Stine had issued the order against Berger on Aug. 30.

In another Wednesday case, prosecutors withdrew a charge of indirect criminal contempt against Cori W. Sites, 37, of Schuylkill Haven, when, as occurred in the Berger case, the alleged victim did not appear for the hearing.

State police at Schuylkill Haven alleged Sites violated a PFA order against him on Oct. 24. Stine had issued the order against Sites on July 13.

Also on Wednesday, prosecutors withdrew a charge of indirect criminal contempt against Deborah A. Morse, 52, of Auburn.

“The victim does not want to proceed,” Serina told Stine.

Schuylkill Haven borough police alleged Morse violated a PFA order against her on Oct. 8 in the borough. Domalakes had entered the order on Aug. 9.

In another Wednesday case, David S. Turolis, 38, of Pottsville, pleaded guilty to indirect criminal contempt. Stine sentenced him to pay costs and a $300 fine.

“Don’t stray from the order,” Stine warned Turolis.

State police at Schuylkill Haven alleged Turolis violated a temporary PFA order against him on July 10 by sending text messages to the victim. Stine had entered that order on July 5.

Also on Wednesday, Elizabeth J. Sell, 18, of Pottsville, pleaded no contest to indirect criminal contempt. Stine sentenced her to pay costs and a $300 fine.

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

Pottsville police had charged Sell with violating the order against her by having contact with the victim on Oct. 26 in the city. Judge James P. Goodman had entered the order on Oct. 18.

Contact the writer: pbortner@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6014

Editor’s note : This is part of a series recalling Schuylkill County’s role in World War I, which the United States entered a century ago.

POTTSVILLE — After Robert Bellville Woodbury became a lawyer, he found himself fighting in France during the Great War.

“I found him to be sort of like a Pat Tillman-type person. Pat Tillman was with the NFL and he joined the service after 9/11. And he gave up a lucrative career with the NFL. He was with the Arizona Cardinals, and he joined the service and he got killed,” J. Robert Zane, the president of the Schuylkill County Historical Society, said Tuesday while visiting Woodbury’s memorial at Presbyterian Cemetery at 10th and Howard streets.

Zane was accompanied by two representatives of the Schuylkill County Bar Association: Stanley J. Burke Jr., president, and Charlotte Green, executive director.

“Woodbury came from a prominent family. His father was an attorney. He went to an Ivy League school. He basically had it all. He joined the service, and he got killed,” Zane said.

This year, the society at its headquarters at 305 N. Centre St., Pottsville, set up an exhibit called “Lest We Forget: Schuylkill County in the Great War,” it opened in time for the 100th anniversary of the day the United States entered World War I, April 6.

The Schuylkill County Bar Association sponsored it as a tribute to Woodbury. And the society included a short biography of the fallen soldier in the current issue of its newsletter, Schuylkill Heritage.

“Robert Woodbury is the only Schuylkill County attorney to have died during military service. The Schuylkill County Bar Association, when hearing this, decided to sponsor the World War I exhibit at the historical society. I brought it to their attention through my research,” Zane said. “His story is quite interesting.”

“We felt it was important to honor Mr. Woodbury because of his service and because he was an attorney. And we thought it might be a first step for us in recognizing members of our bar who are veterans of the armed services,” Burke said.

Born in Pottsville, Sept. 11, 1886, Woodbury was the son of the late Wesley Woodbury, who was also an attorney, and Anna Woodbury. His family home was at 1023 Mahantongo St., according to the society’s newsletter.

Woodbury graduated from Pottsville High School and Amherst College, Amherst, Massachusetts.

“He took a special law course at the University of Pennsylvania as he was determined to become a lawyer. After admission to the Schuylkill County Bar, he began a practice with his father on the fourth floor in the Thompson Building, Pottsville’s first skyscraper,” according to the newsletter.

On March 4, 1916, Woodbury enlisted in the Army.

“The nation, at that time, was engaged in skirmishes along the Mexican border. After he entered Company F, Fourth Pennsylvania Infantry, he did the work assigned to him and soon received several promotions,” according to the newsletter.

The United States entered World War I on April 6, 1917, and on June 16, Woodbury received his commission as first lieutenant, Company C, 103rd Engineers.

In February 1918, he was transferred to the 111th Infantry.

“When the Germans began their drive across the Marne on July 15, Woodbury’s company was at Chateau Thierry. It was during these summer months that most of the American casualties occurred. Woodbury fought at Fismette in early August when he was wounded. The Battle of Fismette is considered unique in military history because of the extreme violence and street fighting that occurred, as well as the presence of storm trooper attacks and the use of flamethrowers,” according to the newsletter. “The military dispatch later related that Lt. Woodbury, by his example and energy, kept his men at their posts, going three days without sleep and walking up and down the lines encouraging his men.” On Aug. 9, 1918, Woodbury was wounded. He died in a French hospital days later.

In the book “Schuylkill County Pennsylvania In The World War,” published in 1931, author E.L. Clifford listed Woodbury in “Enlistments from Schuylkill County, Pa.,” stating that he served with Company A, 111 Infantry, AEF France. Clifford also included the following notes about Woodbury: “Died of wounds. 1st Lieut. Cited for bravery at Fismette.”

His date of death is in question. According to the marker atop his grave in Plot B, Row 5, Grave 61 at the American Cemetery in Belleau, France, it’s Aug. 14, 1918. According to the memorial marker his family erected at Presbyterian Cemetery in Pottsville, it’s Aug. 12, 1918.

Woodbury was remembered in other ways.

“There was a Robert Woodbury American Legion Post in Pottsville,” Zane said, and he’s still researching its history. It was known as the Robert B. Woodbury Post No. 67. It formed in 1919 and received its charter in 1920. In 1955, the post built a new headquarters at Sixth and West Arch streets, a building it later sold to the Knights of Columbus. It eventually moved its meeting place to the American Hose Company. The post observed its 75th anniversary in September 1995, according to the newspaper’s archives.

It is no longer active.

During his research, Zane contacted Woodbury’s granddaughter, Kathy Belfoire, Chatham, New Jersey, and told her how the society recognized Woodbury in its exhibit. Belfoire wrote a letter thanking the society and the Schuylkill County Bar Association.

“I cannot express adequately what an unexpected gift this is for me, my brother and our families. As you know, my grandfather gave his life for his country and for the freedom enjoyed by all of us to this day. I have always emphasized with my own children how this freedom was never truly free. It was purchased with the blood of their own family and so many others in World War I and the battles since then,” Belfoire said in the letter. “As President Harry S. Truman said, ‘Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.’ In this divided world in which we currently live, I am encouraged that there is still respect for veterans and the generations that came before us. How wonderful that there are individuals and organizations that still, nearly 100 years later, remember and show gratitude for those who served and sacrificed for our great nation--and also recognize those who still serve. My father (who lived until 2009 and the age of 90 and was also named Robert B. Woodbury for the father he never knew) would have loved this recognition.”

Contact the writer: spytak@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6011

MINERSVILLE — The cause of a fire that left two people homeless and gutted a home late Thursday night remained under investigation Friday.

Firefighters were called about 11 p.m. to 116 Spencer St., at the intersection with Middle Street, to find the front of the home engulfed in flames.

“There was a huge amount of fire,” Minersville police Patrolman Jeffrey Bowers said. “You could feel the heat a block away.”

The home was occupied by Harley Hutsko and Robert Bruce, according to Patty Daley of the American Red Cross Tri-County Chapter. Daley said her organization is helping the two with shelter, clothing and food.

Crews managed to bring the majority of the fire under control in about 45 minutes but remained on scene until about 3 a.m. Friday making sure the flames were completely extinguished.

At the scene Friday morning, Minersville Fire Chief Eric Eichenberg and state police fire marshal Trooper John F. Burns of the Frackville station sifted through what remains of the home’s interior to try to determine what sparked the blaze.

Bowers said that Hutsko and Bruce were able to get out of the home through a back door and both escaped injury.

When he arrived, Bowers said, the majority of the fire was located in the front of the home but quickly spread.

Bowers commended firefighters on containing the fire to 116 Spencer St., saving a church next door separated by only a small walkway.

As of Friday afternoon, Eichenberg and Burns hadn’t announced if the cause of the blaze was determined.

The Schuylkill County Communications Center said firefighters from Minersville, Pottsville, Schuylkill Haven, Llewellyn and Phoenix Park responded to the blaze along with Minersville and Schuylkill EMS.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013

Omission of price

For the Chinese Auction Benefit for Marie Bojanowski, Terry Reiley Building, 216 N. 12th St., Pottsville, the 50/50 cost $1, $3 a sheet or $10 for four sheets. The prices were not clear in Friday’s edition.

Pottsville police

probe vehicle theft

POTTSVILLE — Pottsville police are investigating a theft that was reported to their department about 6:30 a.m. Thursday.

Police said that officers were called to 544 Peacock St. for a report of a vehicle theft and learned from a 57-year-old Pottsville man that he started his blue 2017 Toyota Tacoma and re-entered his home.

During that time, someone got in the vehicle and drove it away, west on Peacock Street toward Seltzer City.

Police said the vehicle was found a short time later on Brier City Road, outside of Minersville, after a resident there reported they had allowed a young white man into their home to use their phone during which time he stole cash and the keys to one of their vehicles.

The man then fled in the second stolen vehicle in the direction of Minersville, police said, adding that additional reports about items being stolen from unlocked cars in the area of Peacock Street were received by Pottsville police later as well.

Police said the continuing investigation suggests the same person who stole the Toyota Tacoma may have stolen a vehicle from the Lebanon area earlier in the morning and abandoned it in the city before committing the thefts in Pottsville and Brier City.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Pottsville Bureau of Police at 570-628-3792.

The Pottsville Bureau of Police is urging all residents not to leave a running, unlocked vehicle unattended and to lock your car after parking it.

Unfortunately, these are situations certain individuals are looking to take advantage of currently and simple preventive steps can help minimize such illegal acts.

As always, police urge everyone to call 911 immediately if you see any suspicious people or activity in your neighborhood.

Omission of price

For the Chinese Auction Benefit for Marie Bojanowski, Terry Reiley Building, 216 N. 12th St., Pottsville, the 50/50 cost $1, $3 a sheet or $10 for four sheets. The prices were not clear in today’s edition.

ORWIGSBURG — Representatives of the community, its police force and its fire department gathered at Bicentennial Park on Saturday to honor our nation’s veterans.

They were met by freezing temperatures and a blinding sun; the heartwarming sound of taps, the national call of remembrance; and the clap of the American flag flying over Friendship Hose Company No. 1.

“Veterans know what it’s like to stand guard in the chill of the night while others sleep. They understand the meaning of hardship, standing watch at freedom’s frontier far from their loved ones. It is this devotion to duty that gives us all strength,” J. Stuart “Stu” Richards, Orwigsburg, said before a crowd of more than 30.

“They have sought neither fortune nor fame. It was merely a simple love of America and the freedoms we all cherish so much. To all our veterans, we have a simple yet heartfelt message: thank you. Thank you for your unwavering service in peacetime and war, here in this nation and throughout the world,” Richards said.

He recognized a Korean War veteran from the borough who died on Thursday.

“We have a sad announcement to make. One of our only Korean War veterans in our VFW organization, an active member, passed away on Thursday, Evan Bowen. I’m sure a lot of people know him. It will be a great loss for us because he always participated in our programs for the VFW,” Richards said.

Richards was referring to Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2198.

Evan W. Bowen Sr. died Thursday at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey. He was 84.

His family includes a daughter, Jennifer L. Bowen, who is president of the Orwigsburg Historical Society, a son, Evan W. Jr., and grandchildren.

“We’re losing a lot of people who knew the living history,” said Tom Siegfried, Orwigsburg, who served in the Marines from 1964 to 1967.

Other veterans organizations at the event Saturday morning included American Legion Post 369.

Richards unfolded a speech he’d prepared, which started with a prayer:

“Dear Lord, on this Saturday, Nov. 11th, 2017, we reflect on the blessings of our liberty. We ask our Heavenly Father that we may be faithful stewards of the freedom we have been granted. Let us never forget that we cannot rightfully celebrate the joy of our freedom without remembering the great price paid for the freedom. In the name of the Lord God. Amen.”

“Thank you for joining us on this cold Saturday in November as we recognize our veterans for their unwavering service to America. Across this great country and throughout the world, Americans will pause today to honor our brave fighting men and women who for more than 230 years have underwritten our freedom by their duty, honor and selfless service. We recognize that all our veterans have given something of themselves to this country and some have given all, laying down their lives to defend the freedoms we hold so dear,” Richards said.

“We stagger at the eternal debt we owe to the untold number of American veterans who chose to set aside their personal ambitions and dreams to assure the well being of our great nation. We, the living, are indeed the beneficiaries of those who made tremendous sacrifices for the advancement and surety of our liberty,” Richards said.

“While we pay homage to all American veterans, in particular I want to thank our Vietnam veterans today,” Richards said.

Richards served in Vietnam. He was in the Air Force from 1968 to 1972. He was discharged with the rank of sergeant. On his jacket were some patches representing some of his experiences.

One featured a embroidered image of a plane, C-7 Caribou Vietnam.

“We served in a war that deeply divided our nation, but America is resilient. We are a country of temperance, compassion and reason. And with the passage of time we are trying to heal this wound,” he said.

Ben Everett, Orwigsburg, played taps at the start of the ceremony and “America The Beautiful” afterward.

Charles Cinamella, North Manheim Township, a representative of VFW Post 2198, said the VFW and the American Legion are starting a Hometown Heroes Banner Program. People interested in learning more can call 570-385-0644.

Cinamella said he served in the Marines from 1963 to 1967 and earned the rank of sergeant.

Tim Snyder, commander of VFW Post 2198, was there. He served with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard 201st Red Horse Squadron out of Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, from 1990 to 2011. His rank was tech sergeant.

On Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I, Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day, according to www.history.com.

“Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and Nov. 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans — living or dead — but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime,” according to site.

There were numerous programs held in Schuylkill County on Saturday to recognize local veterans, including a morning event at Nativity BVM High School at Lawtons Hill, Pottsville, and a roast beef dinner at Valley View American Legion Post 575.

Contact the writer: spytak@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6011

Ashland Rotary

Kira Marlow, a senior at North Schuylkill High School and a daughter of Jennifer Marlow and Jack Marlow, Ashland, was named student of the month for September by the Ashland Area Rotary Club.

Kira is enrolled in North Schuylkill’s academic curriculum. She is a member of the National Honor Society, math, science, English and foreign language honor societies; 700, presidents, pep and diversity clubs; vision council, student council, Teens Against Tobacco, Students Against Destructive Decisions and Friends Forever. She is treasurer of her class, plays softball and volleyball and participated in powder puff football.

In the community, Kira is a member of Big Brothers Big Sisters and plays Frackville girls’ softball. She plans to attend college and major in physical therapy.

Hegins-Valley View

Jacob Masser, a senior at Tri-Valley High School, was named October student of the month for the Hegins-Valley View Rotary Club.

Jacob gave an informative account of a trip to the Dominican Republic, where he participated in projects and activities conducted by his church. Rotary members, his parents and grandparents listened and learned about life in the Dominican Republic and also about his future plans for studies in fermentation and chemistry at the university level.

Jacob is in the advanced academic program at Tri-Valley. He is a member of the National Honor Society, co-president of his class and enjoys playing baseball.

Jacob is a son of Michael and Josephine Masser, Klingerstown area.

Pine Grove Area

Stephanie Boyer and Avery LeVan were named October students of the month at Pine Grove Area High School.

Stephanie, a daughter of Morgan and Larry Boyer, Pine Grove, studies in the advanced placement curriculum. Her high school activities include cross country, varsity basketball, track, band, chorus, FBLA, SADD, history, varsity and statistics clubs, youth group and PA Air National Guard.

Stephanie plans to continue her career in the Air National Guard in the Aerospace Medical Unit, DET 1, and earn her bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Avery, a son of Wes and Jen LeVan, Pine Grove, studies in the advanced placement and honors curricula. His high school activities include Quiz Bowl, Cardinal Spotlight Theatre, Cardinal marching, concert and jazz bands, student council, SADD, FBLA and National Honor Society.

Avery plans to go to a university to study political science.

Frackville

St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church will hold its annual Christmas candlelight pageant at 4 p.m. Dec. 3 at the church, Oak Street, Route 61. Admission is free. After the program, which will include the participation of parish children in a living Nativity, there will be a potluck social in the parish hall. St. Nicholas will attend to greet the children.

Frackville

The Frackville Ministerium Food Bank will be open from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday for eligible borough residents. New applicants will need proof of eligibility — a borough address. The food bank is located at Zion Lutheran Church. People must use the downstairs entrance by the parking log on South Beach Street. For more information, call Shannon Mozdy at 570-874-0255.

Halifax

An Old World Christmas Market sponsored by Broad Mountain Vineyard, 596 Harman Road, will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 2 and 3. Tickets are $2 each. Visitors will be able to get food, beverages and take part in holiday activities including Christmas shopping and Santa visits, according to a release. All are welcome. For more information, call 717-362-8044.

Mahanoy City

Zion Baptist Church, 400 E. Market St., will have Celebrate Recovery at 7 p.m. Tuesday. It is a free recovery program that meets every Tuesday to help with “hurts, habits and hang-ups,” according to a release. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-628-4942.

Mahanoy City

The Mahanoy Township High School Alumni group will meet at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Good American Hose Company, Eighth Street and Mahanoy Avenue. Anyone who attended the high school is welcome to attend the meeting. Participants will discuss plans for a reunion. For more information, call Pat at 570-668-6707.

Pottsville

A show by Gary MacCready and Friends featuring Shenandoah’s Leilani Chesonis will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Majestic Theater, 209 N. Centre St. The sponsor is the Majestic Theater Association. Tickets are $5 each. Performers will also include Dr. Julia Askernia and Chelsea Smarr. All are welcome. For more information, call 570-628-2833.

Pottsville

The ninth annual Candlelight Remembrance Vigil sponsored by the Schuylkill County Suicide Prevention Task Force will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday at Yuengling Park, Mahantongo and 10th streets. The free vigil is being held on National Suicide Survivors’ Day to celebrate memories of loved ones lost to suicide. Participants are encouraged to bring a photo poem or item to memento to share. For more information, call 570-366-2524.

Pottsville

The Schuylkill County Volunteer Firefighters’ Association has announced its 2017 fourth quarterly meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday at Good Intent Fire Company. Association member organizations are urged to have a delegate attend. The session will include nominations for 2018 officers. For more information, email Leroy Boyer, association recording secretary, at lboyer@republicanherald.com.

Schuylkill Haven

The Schuylkill Haven Senior Citizens meet at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays of the month at the Senior/Neighborhood Center, 340 Haven St., and always accept donations for the local food pantry. For more information, call 570-385-5323.

Tamaqua

The annual Tamaqua Community Thanksgiving Service, sponsored by the Tamaqua Ministerial Association, will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 21 at Trinity United Church of Christ, 22 Lafayette St. Association members will lead the service; the Tamaqua Area High School Jazz Chorale directed by John Buglio will perform.

SHEPPTON — Two people lost their home Saturday morning when fire destroyed a trailer on West Pine Street.

Kyle Mummey, chief of the Sheppton-Oneida Fire Company, said the alarm sounded at 5:55 a.m. Arriving firefighters found the trailer engulfed in flames.

“It was pretty well advanced when we got there so there was not much we could do” to save the trailer, Mummey said. “There were flames everywhere.”

The residents weren’t home when the fire broke out, Mummey said. The Red Cross is assisting them.

No injuries were reported.

Mummey said a state police fire marshal will be at the scene this morning as the investigation into what caused the fire continues.

Firefighters were at the scene for about three hours.

Sheppton-Oneida was assisted by Nuremberg-Weston, Ringtown Valley, Hazle Township, Harwood, Mahanoy City and Shenandoah fire companies. Shenandoah and Valley Regional ambulances also responded.