A children's art auction Friday night raised at least $2,133 for an 8-year-old girl suffering from leukemia.

In all, the artwork of 76 children decorated the walls of The Perception Training Center Inc., Pottsville.

Michelle Dallago, owner/educational director of the center that teaches students in preschool through third grade, said parents voted to give the auction's proceeds to Olivia. This is the 12th time for the auction in which parents select the recipient of the money.

Some parents knew of Olivia Bensinger's diagnosis and decided to spread the word, Dallago said.

"It was an overwhelming support for Olivia," she said.

Olivia suffers from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a blood cancer. She was diagnosed Nov. 29, 2012, at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital after going to another hospital for an eye infection, said her mother, Lisa Bensinger.

"She a fighter and this is definitely not something any of us has expected," Lisa said.

Olivia, a second-grader at Blue Mountain Elementary West, was not at the auction Friday because she had been to Hershey for more tests, her mother said.

When she was told about the money raised on her daughter's behalf, Lisa said "Wow."

The financial and emotional support residents of Schuylkill County have given to her daughter is almost beyond words, she said.

"It's amazing. We could never thank everybody enough," she said.

A final tally of the amount to be given to Olivia will be available next week, Dallago said.

The children started their artwork in September. They learned about a new artist every month, Dallago said.

Tickets were also sold for art baskets filled with art supplies, tickets for donated gift items such as a necklace, Tastefully Simple gift basket and other gifts were also available.

The children also wrote cards to Olivia and two framed pictures will be given to her that the children signed.

John Kushwarra, 51, of Pottsville, said his children, John, 7, and Alan, 5, enjoy attending the center. Of the event, he said, "I think it lets them show off their work. It's something they can be proud of."

Caroline Hobbs, 5, had about 15 pieces of artwork. One of them was entitled "The Birthday Cake."

Her brother, Christopher, 4, also attends. Christopher Hobbs, their father, said his children were excited even on vacation for the showing.

"I think it's fantastic for them. It gives them an opportunity to showcase what they love to do," he said.

Florida man cited for crash

MOUNT PLEASANT - A Lake Worth, Fla., man escaped injury when the 2005 Freightliner tractor-trailer he was driving crashed in the northbound lanes of Interstate 81, at mile marker 115.7 in Foster Township, at 3:30 a.m. Thursday.

State police at Frackville said Ernesto Luis Rivero Blanco was driving north in the right lane when he fell asleep and went off the east side of the road hitting a metal guide rail.

The truck continued north against the guide rail for about 235 feet and hit a mile marker sign when Rivero Blanco tried to steer back onto the highway.

The truck traveled an additional 165 feet as it crossed both lanes before going off the west side of the road and hitting a rock embankment, police said, adding that the impact caused the truck to spin and roll over onto its right side and come to a stop facing south, completely blocking the left lane of the road.

Police said the left northbound lane of the interstate was closed for about five hours while the vehicle was removed. Rivero Blanco and the company he was driving for will receive numerous citations as a result of the crash, police said.

Minersville EMS, Frackville firefighters, PennDOT and the state police Motor Carrier Enforcement team assisted at the scene.

Port Clinton driver cited for crash

HAMBURG - Two people escaped injury when their vehicles collided on Route 61, just south of Cabela Drive in Tilden Township, Berks County, at 6:20 a.m. Thursday.

State police at Hamburg said Leann Knoblauch, 35, of Port Clinton, was driving a 2013 Dodge Dart south when she took her eyes off of the road momentarily and ran into the back of a 2012 Jeep Patriot driven by James Ketner, 60, of Pottsville, who was stopped due to traffic.

No injuries were reported and police said Knoblauch will be cited as a result of the crash.

A 20-year-old Mount Carmel man arrested by Hegins Township police for his role in a 2011 robbery at Tri-Valley Pharmacy in Valley View was among those to plead not guilty during arraignment last week in Schuylkill County Court.

Charles R. Frantz, 224 S. Locust St., was arrested by Sgt. Beau Yarmush and charged with conspiracy, robbery, delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and retail theft.

Yarmush said Frantz and his then-girlfriend, Leanne Micklesavage, Ashland, joined forces to rob prescription medication from the store on May 17, 2011.

The sergeant said that Micklesavage entered the store, left and then re-entered and went directly to the pharmacy counter. Then a man with a bandana over his face, later identified as Frantz, entered and held a knife to the woman's neck, demanding medication from the employees.

After getting 200 20-milligram oxycodone tablets and 117 10-milligram oxycodone tablets with a total value of $272.36, Frantz fled, Yarmush said.

The investigation determined that Micklesavage was not a victim, but acted like one to assist Frantz in the robbery.

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

Ronald W. Musselman, 29, of 416 E. Union St., Apt. 2, Tamaqua - criminal trespass, theft, receiving stolen property and failure to be licensed.

George T. Geisinger, 63, of 227 Hunter St., Tamaqua - public nuisances.

Domingo J. Cepada, 23, of 231 Fisher Ave., Apt. 2, Coaldale - delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, criminal use of a communications facility and possession of a controlled substance.

Edward E. Whitehead, 28, of 54 Andreas Road, Andreas - DUI, driving under combined influence, driving under the influence of drugs and failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic.

Craig T. Taylor, 23, of 200 E. Washington St., Shenandoah - driving under the influence of drugs, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without insurance and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Anthony G. Hedesh, 25, of 101 E. Chestnut St., Apt. 305, Frackville - theft and receiving stolen property.

Jenifer Richardson, 37, of 329 W. Center St., Shenandoah - burglary and criminal trespass.

Derek M. Krapf, 25, of 90 Back St., Box 56, MaryD - possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Timothy O. Loftus, 49, of 717 N. Centre St., Pottsville - illegally operating a vehicle not equipped with an ignition interlock.

Francine P. Brestowski, 40, of Box 304, Sheppton - DUI, DUI-highest rate and resisting arrest.

Jason S. Layton, of 28 Walnut St., Ringtown - DUI, DUI-highest rate and failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic.

Jacob J. Fetterolf, 24, of 197 Turnpike Road, Ashland - DUI and DUI-highest rate.

Edward A. Bickowski, 25, of 200 E. Ogden St., Girardville - driving under the influence of drugs, possession of a small amount of marijuana and driving without insurance.

William B. Gray, 48, of 126 S. Spencer St., Frackville - theft and receiving stolen property.

Gerald P. Roche, 50, of 23 W. Main St., Girardville - habitual offender, accidents involving damage to attended vehicles or property, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, reckless driving, careless driving and failure to be licensed.

Richard H. Melicharek, 51, of 214 Pine St., Apt. 3, Tamaqua - bad checks, forgery, access device fraud, theft by deception and receiving stolen property.

Donna E. Shistel, 60, of 91 Orchard Road, Barnesville - DUI, DUI-highest rate and endangering the welfare of a child.

Diane M. Robert, 41, of 208 E. High St., Coaldale - DUI, DUI-high rate, endangering the welfare of a child and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Kenneth R. Shankweiler, 51, of State Road, Barnesville - DUI, DUI-high rate and failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic.

Jamie L. Bauder, 29, of 401 Winter Mountain Road, Box 143, Andreas - resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and harassment.

Mary L. Hardy, 43, of 133 N. White St., Shenandoah - theft of property lost, mislaid or delivered by mistake and receiving stolen property.

Eric C. Brown, 31, of 235 Pierce St., Pottsville - endangering the welfare of a child.

Robert D. Steffie Sr., 60, of 1694 Summerhill Road, Auburn - DUI, DUI-highest rate and careless driving.

Megan Hill, 23, of 44 E. Ruddle St., Coaldale - retail theft.

Stephen T. Hill, 20, of 63 Bowe St., Tamaqua - possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jennifer L. Giranda, 38, of 51 Bridge St., McAdoo - DUI, DUI-highest rate, maximum speed limits violation, failure to carrying or exhibit a driver's license on demand, failure to sign registration card, careless driving and driving at an unsafe speed.

Justin E. McArdle, 25, of 426 Arlington St., Tamaqua - driving under the influence of drugs, accidents involving damage to unattended vehicles or property and failure to give information and render aid.

James L. Albaugh, 38, of 11 St. Ann St., Barnesville - DUI and careless driving.

Cara L. Eroh, 37, of 18 Hilltop Road, Barnesville - DUI, DUI-high rate and careless driving.

Sabrina Lawson, 35, of 171 Hazle St., Box 129, Delano - retail theft.

Janeen M. Phelan, 30, of 51 Westwood St., Minersville - criminal mischief.

John E. Correll, 51, of 19 Macomb St., Box 463, New Philadelphia - DUI, DUI-highest rate, driving on the wrong side of the road, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic, driving at an unsafe speed, careless driving and failure to use seat belts.

Joseph J. Guzick, 23, of 716 Third St., Port Carbon - DUI, DUI high rate, careless driving and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate.

Laura N. Hadder, no age available, of 27 Lost Creek Road, Lost Creek - retail theft and conspiracy.

Chevonne M. Martinson, 28, of 432 W. Centre St., Shenandoah - retail theft and conspiracy.

Kay Ann Jobrey, 48, of 330 N. Mill St., Saint Clair - theft by deception, receiving stolen property and retail theft.

James J. Trabosh Jr., 59, of 492 E. Bacon St., Pottsville - DUI and DUI-highest rate.

Jessica K. Davis, 20, of 14 Wildcat Road, Girardville - DUI, DUI-minor, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked and illegal purchase or consumption of alcohol.

Steven Reed, 45, last known address of 275 Valley St., New Philadelphia - criminal attempt to commit theft, railroad protection-vandalism and interference with transportation, possession of drug paraphernalia and simple trespass.

Kyle R. Marx, 24, of 131 Coal St., Cumbola - fleeing or attempting to elude police, DUI, DUI-highest rate, recklessly endangering another person, driving following registration suspension, driving without insurance, driving on the wrong side of the road, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic, driving at an unsafe speed, reckless driving, careless driving, failure to use seat belts, stop and yield sign violations and turning movements and required signals violations.

Theodore C. Black, 45, of 100 Dorset Road, New Ringgold - aggravated assault, simple assault, harassment and disorderly conduct.

Ryan M. Natale, 24, of 118 Pleasant Valley Road, Pine Grove - simple assault and harassment.

Todd M. Saunders, 39, of 1732 Sweet Arrow Lake Road, Pottsville - driving under the influence of drugs and failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic.

Raymond Jordan, 20, of 231 N. Bower St., Shenandoah - delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.

Craig T. Taylor, 23, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville - possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Ramon Martinez Ruiz, 20, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville - simple assault, simple assault with a deadly weapon, recklessly endangering another person and harassment.

John M. Wronski, 26, of 425 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City - DUI.

Scott Sargent, 28, of 149 W. Washington St., Shenandoah - accidents involving damage to attended vehicles or property, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, driving without insurance, careless driving, reckless driving and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate.

Jenifer Harris, 24, of 133 S. Hancock St., McAdoo - DUI, stop and yield sign violations, turning movements and required signals violation, careless driving and violation of general lighting requirements.

Michael J. Brodie, 27, of 231 W. Sherman St., Apt. 3, McAdoo - terroristic threats, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, public drunkenness and harassment.

James W. Freiling, 30, of 323 W. Broad St., Apt. 4, Tamaqua - DUI, DUI-high rate and failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic.

Zachary D. Pisanchyn, 20, of 171 Sunny Drive, MaryD - DUI, driving under the influence of drugs, DUI-minor and driving at an unsafe speed.

Shawn W. Clemens, 35, 6 Bolgash Lane, Tamaqua - aggravated assault, simple assault, harassment, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Basilio DeJesus, 45, of 6 Blue Mountain Heights, Schuylkill Haven - retail theft.

Clay H. Rinehart III, 23, of 558 Route 61, Orwigsburg - DUI, DUI-highest rate, careless driving and violation of general lighting requirements.

Samantha Jo Fisher, 22, of 180 Coal Mountain Road, Auburn - DUI, DUI-highest rate, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic and careless driving.

Nathan M. Zelinsky, 22, of 191 Owl Creek Road, Tamaqua - DUI, DUI-highest rate, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic and driving at an unsafe speed.

Jeffrey Dargis, 40, of 329 W. Centre St., Shenandoah, or Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville - criminal trespass, conspiracy, theft and receiving stolen property.

Adam G. Ould, 22, of 775 Forest Lane, Pottsville - DUI, DUI-highest rate, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate.

Tristin E. Weyman, 30, of 437 Broad St., Hegins - delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jacob D. Shuey, 21, of 487 High Road, Ashland - delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Alicia P. Carr, 25, of 718 Centre St., Apt. 1, Ashland - delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jennifer L. Richardson, 37, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville - conspiracy, theft and receiving stolen property.

John P. Caporusso, 27, of 32 Weston Place, Shenandoah - DUI, DUI-high rate, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic and driving at an unsafe speed.

Mary Ann Sekela, 70, of 185 Indiana Ave., Shenandoah - DUI and DUI-highest rate.

Karl K. Kimmel, 33, of 132 Centre Ave., Apt. 2, Schuylkill Haven - endangering the welfare of a child, simple assault and harassment.

Todd D. Dohner, 47, of 714 Mountain Road, Pine Grove - terroristic threats and harassment.

Valerie Underkoffler, 46, of 56 W. Bacon St., Pottsville - DUI, DUI-high rate, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked and violation of general lighting requirements.

Nicole Neary, 22, of 40 Oakland Ave., Ashland - simple assault and harassment.

Luis DeJesus, 40, of State Correctional Institution/Frackville, Frackville - aggravated assault on police, simple assault and harassment.

Patricia Ott, no age available, of 213 E. Coal St., Shenandoah - simple assault and harassment.

Cinthia M. Shaffer, 27, of 19 Park St., Pottsville - retail theft, access device fraud, theft and receiving stolen property.

Neil P. King, 23, of 1110 Mahantongo St., Pottsville - DUI-high rate and failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic.

Timothy M. Reed, 36, of 622 Mahantongo St., Pottsville - burglary, conspiracy, theft, receiving stolen property and criminal mischief.

Cody D. Petravich, 20, of 2742 West End Ave., Pottsville - theft.

Edward F. Melusky III, 41, of 606 Pottsville St., Minersville - DUI, DUI-highest rate, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic and turning movements and required signals violation.

Raymond C. Acker Sr., 54, of 622 Mahantongo St., Pottsville - burglary, conspiracy, theft, receiving stolen property and criminal mischief.

Amanda M. Mason, 23, of 208 S. Centre St., Pottsville - DUI, DUI-highest rate, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic, driving at an unsafe speed, restrictions on alcoholic beverages and failure to use seat belts.

Corey M. Vanetten, 35, of 1107 E. Pine St., Mahanoy City - DUI-highest rate and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Michael R. Harwick Sr., 41, of 424 Laurel St., Minersville - bad checks.

Stephen S. Kubeika, 25, of 351 Chestnut St., Saint Clair - indecent exposure, open lewdness, harassment and disorderly conduct.

Joseph J. Guzick, 23, of 716 Third St., Port Carbon - criminal mischief, accidents involving damage to attended vehicles or property, following too closely and failure to give information and render aid.

Sean T. Cooper, 41, of 102 Lorraine St., Box 246, Minersville - DUI, DUI-highest rate, failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic and exhaust system violations.

Andrew C. Cecil, 20, of 809 Vine St., Pottsville - conspiracy and retail theft.

Isreal Quinones, 41, of 35 Main St., New Philadelphia - driving under the influence of drugs and failure to drive on roadways laned for traffic.

Joseph A. Berardi, 34, of 1 W. Caroline Ave., No. 2, Saint Clair - robbery, forgery, access device fraud, retail theft, receiving stolen property, theft, simple assault, disorderly conduct and failure to be licensed.

Jeremy J. Guida, 19, of 507A Mahantongo St., Pottsville - retail theft.

James L. O'Brien, 48, of 450 Sunbury St., Minersville - DUI, accidents involving damage to unattended vehicles or property and careless driving.

Dillon M. Haller, 19, of 633 W. Race St., Pottsville - prohibited offensive weapons.

Connie M. Kovach, 36, of 806 N. 16th St., Pottsville - DUI, DUI-high rate, driving without insurance, careless driving and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate.

Jennifer T. Kramer, 35, of 402 Fairview St., Pottsville - possession of a controlled substance.

Norman K. Bensinger, 57, last known address of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville - criminal mischief and disorderly conduct.

Shawn E. Peck, 21, of 522 E. Norwegian St., Pottsville - theft, receiving stolen property and conspiracy.

John J. Cavanaugh Jr., 31, of 704 E. Main St., Hegins - DUI, DUI-highest rate, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked, driving without insurance, driving an unregistered vehicle and reckless driving.

Caitlin Marie Pellechio, 25, of 615 Laurel Terrace, Bridge House, Pottsville - theft and receiving stolen property.

Monica M. Brown, 23, of 14 W. Broad St., Apt. 2, Tamaqua - access device fraud, receiving stolen property and theft by deception.

Calvin C. Miller, 53, of 201 Hunter St., Tamaqua - simple assault and harassment.

Jose A. Diaz-Vasquez, 39, of 629 W. Market St., Mahanoy City - possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Flora E. Ptaszkowski, 31, of 133 N. White St., Apt. 2, Shenandoah - simple assault, disorderly conduct and harassment.

Travis C. Beam, 39, of 35 S. Bower St., Shenandoah - disorderly conduct.

Kyle J. Schaeffer, 24, of 1124 E. Centre St., Mahanoy City - simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and harassment.

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN - Frank P. Snyder, a state service forester, was hoping "about 50" people would come to Penn State Schuylkill early Saturday for Schuylkill County Conservancy's free conference on timbering.

He was surprised when more than 80 filled the presentation room at the campus Health and Wellness Building.

"I lost count of how many are here. This is a really-good turnout," Snyder said.

They included Bob Bylone Sr., 69, of East Brunswick Township.

"I own 104 acres in the township. I'd say about 65 percent of it is woods. We haven't timbered it in the past. But with the storms we've had the past couple of years, we had a lot of trees down. So we're looking to do something constructive by cleaning up the mess and better stewardship of the land," Bylone said.

Also there was Bob Neumoyer, 63, of New Ringgold, who said he's been making efforts to care for the woods on 300 acres he owns.

"I'd say 7/8 of that is woodland. A lot of the property we owned had became overgrown. It needed some kind of management. We've been working with it for probably 15 years. We hire contractors to come to help us accomplish the goals we're working on. We do it to help it become sustainable forest, to help it become better," Neumoyer said.

Neumoyer said he's been getting advice from the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and he's enrolled in DCNR's Forest Stewardship Program.

He came out early Saturday to the conference for a few reasons.

"There were a couple things on the agenda that were really interesting," he said.

In particular, he wanted to hear Mark E. Banker, a wildlife biologist from Appalachian Forest Consultants, Centre County, discuss "Managing Your Forests."

"That's a concern we have with our property. We want to make our property better than what it is now, and we'd also like to make sure we have a lot of deer and grouse and turkey, things to give them year-round protection and habitat," Neumoyer said.

In Schuylkill County, there's an estimated 350,000 acres of forest. About 75 percent of it is privately owned, Snyder said.

This was the first time the Schuylkill County Conservancy had done a program geared toward private landowners, according to Snyder, a state service forester for DCNR, Bureau of Forestry, Weiser Forest District, Cressona.

Called "Selling Your Timber and Enhancing Wildlife Habitat on Your Property," the event was held from 8 a.m. to noon.

And the conference was intended to serve as a landowner's guide to forest ownership, Snyder said.

Presenters included David R. Jackson, a forester with Penn State Extension Service, Centre County, who discussed "Selling Your Timber."

Jackson outlined the steps involved in conducting a successful timber sale that ensures the sustainability of forest resources.

With a slide show called "Profitable Timber Sales and Marketing," Jackson offered the following tips:

- Set goals. Why sell timber? A timber sale should help a landowner achieve those goals, which could include generating revenue, prepare for woodland regeneration, increase growth of trees, improve the value of the property, provide wildlife habitat, develop access or salvage dying trees.

- Follow relevant state laws, including the state Department of Environmental Protection Chapter 102 Erosion and Sediment Control regulations and DEP Chapter 105 Dam Safety and Waterway Management regulations.

- Get professional assistance. "Find a forester who understands your objectives and is able to help you plan and execute them," Jackson said. Sources of assistance include the state Bureau of Forestry, private consulting foresters, forest industry representatives and Penn State Extension service.

"Why hire a forester? They have forest management training and experience, knowledge of local timber markets and experience with loggers," Jackson said.

- Consider getting a few bids from loggers to find the best sale price.

- Study resources on the market, including "The Pennsylvania Woodlands Timber Market Report" which is online at extension.psu.edu/timber-market-report.

Jackson also encouraged landowners interested in timbering pick up a free guide from the Penn State Extension service called "Best Management Practices for Pennsylvania Forests." Copies were available at the event.

Other speakers included Kay Weidensaul, a member of the Schuylkill County Conservancy's board of directors; and Dennis DiOrio, a district conservationist with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Harrisburg.

Ben Vaupel, Auburn, conservancy past president, was the host. His family owns about 100 acres of forestland, and he said timbering is something a good steward should do every now and then.

"You have to see your property as a patient. It needs surgery once in a while," Vaupel said.

"And every property is different. We hope you go away from here today able to ask the right questions regarding it," he said.

"And if you're not knowledgeable about procedures," Neumoyer said, "you can do more harm than good."

Lock Haven

Brett Whiteash, a senior computer information science major with a concentration in data base and network administration, made the dean's list for the fall semester at Lock Haven University.

He is a son of David and Beth Whiteash, Pottsville, and a 2009 graduate of Minersville Area High School.

Albright

Lauren R. Pupko, a junior psychology and Spanish major, made the dean's list for the fall semester at Albright College, Reading, with a 4.0 GPA.

She is a daughter of Rosanne Long, Mahanoy City, and a 2010 graduate of Marian High School.

Messiah

Shaun Soliday, Tower City, a junior business administration major at Messiah College, Grantham, was named to the dean's list for the fall semester.

He is a son of Jeff and Lisa Soliday, Tower City.

Wilkes

Trevor Strenchock, who is pursing a doctor of pharmacy degree, has been named to the dean's list for the 11th consecutive semester at Wilkes University, Wilkes-Barre.

He is a son of Marie Strenchock, Morea, and the late Pete Strenchock, and a 2007 graduate of Mahanoy Area High School.

Cornell

Tyler Maley, Schuylkill Haven, was named to the dean's list of the College of Arts and Sciences for Excellence in Scholarship for the fall semester at Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y.

He is a son of Tom and Lori Maley, Schuylkill Haven, and a grandson of George and Helen Barnes, Saint Clair, and a 2011 graduate of Blue Mountain High School.

Syracuse

Cody Bruso, Hegins, a junior majoring in entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises, was named to the dean's list for the fall semester at Syracuse University Whitman School of Management with a 3.4 GPA.

He is a 2010 Tri-Valley High School graduate and a son of Bruce and Amy Bruso, Hegins.

Old Dominion

Brandon Choate, a exercise science major at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Va., made the dean's list for the fall semester.

He is a son of Cort and Gail Choate, Orwigsburg.

West Chester

Sara Nestor, Ashland, a junior majoring in health and physical education at West Chester University, achieved dean's list honors for the fall semester.

She is a daughter of Stan and Nancy Nestor and a 2010 graduate of North Schuylkill High School.

Penn College

Carmen Cicioni, a freshman majoring in automotive restoration at Pennsylvania College of Technology, Williamsport, made the dean's list for the fall semester.

A 2012 graduate of North Schuylkill High School, he is a son of Dino and Karen Cicioni, Ringtown.

Elizabethtown

Allison Salata, a freshman accounting major at Elizabethtown College, made the dean's list for the fall semester with a 4.0 GPA.

A daughter of Glenn and Terri Salata, Pottsville, she is a 2012 graduate of Pottsville Area High School.

Susquehanna

John Slater, Ashland, a sophomore biology major, made the dean's list for the fall semester at Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove.

A 2011 graduate of Tri-Valley High School, he is a son of John and Donna Slater.

Penn State

Samuel Kantner made the dean's list for the fall semester at Penn State University with a 3.87 GPA. He is an actuarial science major in the Smeal College of Business and is enrolled in the Schreyer Honors College.

A 2012 graduate of Blue Mountain High School, he is a son of Melinda Kantner, Cressona, and John Kantner, Orwigsburg.

St. Joseph

Kristian Zanis, a sophomore actuarial science major at St. Joseph's University, Philadelphia, made the dean's list for the fall semester.

A 2011 graduate of Pottsville Area High School, he is a son of Steve and Chris Zanis, Pottsville, and a grandson of Gladys Kuperavage, Port Carbon, and Ronald and Mary Ann Pillo, Pottsville.

Alvernia

The following local students have been named to the dean's list at Alvernia University, Reading, for the fall semester:

Sara Achenbach, Frackville, a senior accounting major and a graduate of North Schuylkill High School; Amanda Cannon, Pottsville, a junior criminal justice major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School; Amanda Chappell, Wiconisco, a freshman forensic science major and a graduate of Williams Valley High School; Shaina Dailey, Hamburg, a freshman psychology major and a graduate of Hamburg Area High School; Kacie Dallatore, Orwigsburg, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of Blue Mountain High School; Edward Downey, Schuylkill Haven, a senior business management major and a graduate of Shenandoah Valley High School; Dillon Emery, Locustdale, a junior sport management major and a graduate of North Schuylkill High School; Tracy Freeman, Donaldson, a sophomore business management major and a graduate of Pine Grove Area High School; Veronica Galan, Cressona, a senior accounting major and a graduate of Governor Mifflin High School; Leanne Generella, Pottsville, a senior psychology major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School; Casey Green, Ashland, a sophomore forensic science major and a graduate of Tri-Valley High School.

Bridget Haffey, Deer Lake, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of Nativity BVM High School; Christa Hart, Shenandoah, a senior business administration major and a graduate of Mount Carmel Area High School; Amanda Kadingo, Pottsville, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School; Sheri Kaufman, Pine Grove, a junior math and English/language/reading major and a graduate of Pine Grove Area High School; Gloria Keyes, New Philadelphia, a senior biology major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School: Fajjr Khan, Schuylkill Haven, a junior theater studies major and a graduate of Blue Mountain High School; Diane Lillington, Hamburg, a junior behavioral health major and a graduate of Hamburg Area High School; Amanda McCauley, Frackville, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of North Schuylkill High School; Kaysi McLaughlin, Tamaqua, a freshman special education pre-k-8/ECE Cert pre-k-4 major and a graduate of Marian High School.

Michelle Ochenrider, Schuylkill Haven, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of Blue Mountain High School; Helen Rebuck, Ashland, a senior behavioral health studies major; Benjamin Schuettler, Port Carbon, a senior occupational therapy major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School; Jamie Shiffer, Pine Grove, a senior accounting major and a graduate of Pine Grove Area High School; Danielle Shobe, Pine Grove, a senior elementary education/special ed major; Loren Staten, Pottsville, a freshman criminal justice major; Leandra Thacker, Minersville, a junior early childhood pre-K-4 major and a graduate of Minersville Area High School; Gabriella Valenti, Pottsville, a freshman special education pre-k-8/ECE Cert pre-k-4 major and a graduate of Blue Mountain High School; Danielle Wank, Pottsville, a junior early childhood pre-k-4 major.

Bloomsburg

Timothy Nestor, Ashland, received his bachelor's degree in elementary education from Bloomsburg University, on Dec. 15.

Timothy achieved dean's list honors for the fall semester. He is a son of Stan and Nancy Nestor and a 2008 graduate of North Schuylkill High School.

Marriage licenses

Dayton M. Cox, Frackville, and Tiana S. Clark, Aliquippa.

Adam R. Kurz, Humble, Texas, and Abby L. Keyser, Humble, Texas.

David E. Feger, Pitman, and Jeanine M. Koles, Pitman.

Paul Stravinsky, Ringtown, and Kelly Baker, Ringtown.

Eric D. Croll, Zion Grove, and Jennifer L. Kusek, Zion Grove.

Michael K. Davis, Ashland, and Whitney C. Gale, Ashland.

Richard Degregor, Shenan-doah, and Lisa M. Degregor, Shenandoah.

Ascension Garcia Piaz, Minersville, and Dorothy V. Reichert, Minersville.

George L. Kechula, Shenandoah, and Victoria L. Koszyk, Shenandoah.

Divorces granted

Ronald P. Elsavage, Pottsville, from Tania L. Elsavage, Pottsville.

Donna L. Hartranft, Mahanoy City, from George C. Hartranft, Mahanoy City.

Anthony E. Jannuzzi, Pottsville, from Stacy M. Jannuzzi, Clinton Twp., Mich.

Alyson P. Warke, Orwigsburg, from Jeremy J. Warke, Kutztown.

Michael A. Ciccozzi, Kelayres, from Elizabeth A. Ciccozzi, Harleigh.

Angela M. Rex, Tamaqua, from Scott L. Rex, Lehighton.

Deeds

Hegins Township - Rose M. Morgan to Richard A. and Jewel A. Maroldt; 410 E. Main St., Hegins; $1.

Kline Township - Michael Lulla to Michael Lulla; 731 S. Kennedy Drive; $1.

Mahanoy City - William D. Cunningham and Paul L. and Amy Schmerfeld to Paul and Amy Schmerfeld; 640 W. Maple St.; $1.

McAdoo - Mary Patricia Chomo, administratrix of the Estate of Anna Puhak, to Mary Patricia Chomo; Rear 243 S. Kennedy Drive; $1.

Norwegian Township - Gail Kurtek, executrix of the Last Will & Testament of Mary E. Pinkus, to Thomas and Marilyn Williams; 311 Oak Hill St., Seltzer; $1.

Orwigsburg - Margaret H. Keyworth, trustee of The Keyworth Family Revocable Trust, to Charlotte A. Stoudt; 237 W. Hoy St.; $180,000.

Smoke can send signals in more ways than one.

James Markewicz, 23, of Mahanoy City, was among the firefighters who responded to the fire at Thunder Road, 121 N. Main St., Shenandoah, early Aug. 10. When they arrived they saw smoke near the front entrance.

"It was pushing out of the cracks of the door. It was strong. That meant the fire was right behind it," Markewicz, a lieutenant with the West End Fire & Rescue Company in Mahanoy City, said Saturday.

He was one of 243 local volunteer firefighters who gathered at the auditorium at Pottsville Area's D.H.H. Lengel Middle School on Saturday to attend a one-day seminar on the topic.

Called "The Art of Reading Smoke," it was hosted by five local firefighting organizations and the presenter was David W. Dodson, owner and lead instructor of Response Solutions LLC in Eastlake, Colo.

"Reading smoke helps you discover the specific location and intensity of a fire, building collapse potential and the likelihood of a hostile fire event like a flashover," Dodson, 52, of Thornton, Colo., said Saturday.

The class was an upper-level course that included lecture and discussion which gave participants information and experience to be more effective as a first-arriving fire officer or incident commander, according to John W. Blickley, the operations and training officer at Schuylkill County Emergency Management, Pottsville.

"David was excellent. It was a lot of education crammed into a day's seminar. But when you get on scene, it makes you look. Looking at the smoke from the outside can tell you what's going on inside the building," said Markiewicz's cousin, Dan, 44, who is also a lieutenant with the West End fire company in Mahanoy City.

"The way smoke runs and the color of smoke can all give us signs on what's going to happen," said Mark Bower, 50, chief of Tamaqua South Ward Fire Company.

During the eight-hour class, Dodson made a series of points. They included the following:

- Smoke is fuel. "Firefighters use the term 'smoke' when addressing the solids, aerosols and gases being produced by incomplete burning or head degradation of contents," Dodson said.

- Fuels have changed. "Fighting fires in the year 2013 and beyond will be unlike the fires we fought in the 1990s. Composites, lightweight construction, engineered structures and unusual fuels will cause hostile fires to burn hotter, faster and be less predictable," Dodson said.

- Flow. "The most important smoke observation to make on arrival is the smoke-flow characteristic. A turbulent flow can equal flashover. A laminar flow can mean the box is still absorbing. Remember the 'human life' thresholds: 195-degrees Fahrenheit for the airway and 300-degrees Fahrenheit for skin, one-minute exposure," Dodson said.

He also presented them with a list of "reading smoke shortcuts." Here area a few:

- Turbulent smoke that fills an area: a warning sign of an impending flashover

- Thick, black, fast: close to the seat of the fire, super hot smoke capable of instant ignition, maybe a vent-limited fire that needs air

- Thin, black, fast: flame-pushed smoke, a fire nearby that is well ventilated

- Low volume white smoke from more than one location of a large area: serious fire deep within

- Brown smoke: unfinished wood hot enough to burn, a sign that a contents fire is becoming a structural fire

- Yellowish-gray smoke from cracks or seams: sulfur compounds, warning sign of impending backdraft

Dodson, who worked for 25 years as firefighter, said he hasn't given a talk in Schuylkill County before, but was honored by the invitation.

"I'm a safety zealot. I'm passionate about the message and a lot of it has to do with the fact that our curriculums aren't changing fast enough. So what we're discovering about modern fire behavior is what we used to know is no longer accurate in changing times and firefighters are getting killed because of that. So the message has to go out at faster rate than the time it will take us to change the books," Dodson said.

The seminar was sponsored by the Pottsville Fire Department, Mahanoy City Fire Department, Schuylkill Haven Fire Department, Schuylkill County LEPC and Schuylkill County Emergency Services Training Center.

PALO ALTO - Like the City of Pottsville and some other municipalities in Schuylkill County, the Borough of Palo Alto is planning to adopt a Quality of Life ordinance.

"Our story is pretty much the same as a lot of boroughs and municipalities. The majority of the people in the borough take pride in their homes and we have a nice little middle-class community with nice houses. But there are some properties that are not taken care of," John A. Dietrich Jr., borough council president, said Thursday.

The new law will allow the mayor, the borough manager and the police to hand out tickets for 15 Quality of Life violations, which include failure of landlords to register tenants and accumulation of rubbish, and fines of $25 and up.

The council will vote to adopt the nine-page ordinance at its next meeting, slated for 7 p.m. Monday at borough hall, 142 E. Bacon St., according to borough Secretary Sharon A. Uscilowicz.

Communities in the region became interested in Quality of Life laws after the City of Reading, Berks County, passed one in 2011. Reading's ordinance allowed the city to ticket property owners on the spot for violations like high weeds or grass or scattered rubbish. That ordinance includes 23 violations, according to readingpa.gov.

In 2012, municipalities in Schuylkill County took note and started developing similar laws and every municipality came up with its own list of violations. For example, while Pottsville has 16, the Borough of Shenandoah has 20.

Since these code enforcement laws are becoming more popular and each municipality has its own list of violations and penalties, people who own properties in these municipalities may want to acquire copies of the laws for reference.

Palo Alto's proposed ordinance contains 15 Quality of Life violations.

According to the ordinance, they include the following: accumulation of rubbish, garbage, junk or litter; failure to store recyclables in approved containers; failure to store waste or trash in durable, water-tight containers; littering, scattering rubbish or dumping; storing or parking unregistered, uninspected or junk motor vehicles; littering by placement of private advertising matter; animal maintenance issues; failure to deal with insects or vermin; high weeds, grass, plant growth or standing water; snow and ice removal from sidewalks; failure to maintain swimming pools; vending license violations; storing or serving potentially hazardous food; and registration of tenants.

The fine for a Quality of Life ticket is $25. If the ticket is not paid within 15 days, there is a penalty of $10. If the ticket is not paid within 30 days, the ticket becomes a citation, according to the ordinance.

And this will lead to "citation fines" which can be between $300 and $1,000, according to the proposed ordinance.

n Cumbola: New Life in Christ Ministries hosts a free feeding program, food pantry and emergency food pantry at 217-219 Market St., Cumbola. The pantry is open the third Friday of each month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the feeding program is a full meal for families in need, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. every Sunday beginning March 17. The emergency food pantry is available by appointment only, by calling 570-277-6041. To qualify for the food pantry you must have a Pennsylvania state issued ID card and fall at or below the income guidelines which are posted at the facility.

n Fountain Springs: The North Schuylkill High School Class of 1978 is beginning to organize its 35th year reunion. If anyone is interested in the planning process or if you would be interested in attending the reunion, call 570-875-2723. If you know of any classmates who are no longer living in the area, please share this information with them.

n Lebanon: The annual Monte Carlo Night, sponsored by the Sexual Assault Resource and Counseling Center, 615 Cumberland St., will be held from 6 to 11 p.m. March 22 at the Lebanon Valley Country Club. SARCC also services Schuylkill County. The event will include live entertainment, a buffet, silent auction, casino games, celebrity dealers and a get-away vacation raffle. For more information, call SARCC at 717-270-6972, ext. 350 or Dianne Stott, event chairwoman, at 717-273-6225. The number for SARCC Schuylkill is 570-628-2965.

n McAdoo: The McAdoo Lions Club will sponsor a trip to the Sands Casino, Bethlehem, on March 21. The cost is $21 with a $20 slot rebate and $5 food voucher from the casino. The bus will depart at 9 a.m. from All Saints Hall, Cleveland and Washington streets. It will at depart at 4:30 p.m. from Sands for the return trip. The public is welcome to participate. For more information or reservations, call Stephanie at 570-929-1012.

n Port Carbon: The Port Carbon Janet Eich Public Library is planning a Chinese auction for noon to 2 p.m. March 24. A shop-and-drop is set for 1 to 4 p.m. March 23 at the First United Methodist Church, Pike and Washington streets. Coordinator Janet Eich said in a release that donated new items will be appreciated and can be dropped off at the library as soon as possible.

n Pottsville: The Pottsville Free Public Library recently acknowledged the following memorial donations: For John Botto from Linda Koch; for Jack Clifford from Patricia and Joseph Stoffey Sr.; for Angeline Dudish from Cathy and Kate Zimmerman; for Julia 'Lil' Gerchak from Cathy and Kate Zimmerman; for Bob Ebinger from Peggy and Ralph Jaeger; for Alex 'Turk' Helterbran from Cathy and Kate Zimmerman; for Bud Hoffman from Dolores Hoffman; for Ed Terefencko from Peggy and Ralph Jaeger; for Joseph Yourshaw from Joe and Sandi Murton; for Alex Helterbran Sr. from his nieces and nephews, Beth Helterbran, Cheryl Helterbran Hand, Louis Helterbran and Neil Helterbran. The library acknowledged the following honor donation: For Denis Wenders from Ione Geier. The library also acknowledged the following memorial donations from Providence Place: For George Best, Donald Bevan, Emma Bevan, Anna Breitigan, John Dando, Anna Marie Dougherty, Marion Flamini, Julia Gerchak, Anna Lescavage, Eleanor Liedlich, Casimir Malys, Genevieve Pensmith, Anna Weiner, Blanche Weis, Julia Williams and Eleanor Wojciechowski.

n Saint Clair: The Saint Clair Lions Club is sponsoring an overnight trip to Turning Stone Casino & Bingo Hall, Verona, N.Y., from March 20-21. The cost is $135 per person. The club is accepting reservations on a first-come basis. For more information or to make reservations, call Bob at 570-529-0549.

n Shenandoah: The borough has an ordinance that requires people who walk pets on public sidewalks or walkways to clean up after them. Those who do not are in violation of the law and can face a fine. Pet owners may not allow their animals to roam in the borough unleashed or out of control. Driving ATVs on public streets or areas where they are not allowed, such as parks or private property, also is unlawful. Anyone who witnesses such violations is asked to notify municipal authorities.

Haven seniors

The Schuylkill Haven Senior Citizens Association, 340 Haven St., Schuylkill Haven, met Feb. 25.

The meeting opened with a prayer by Chaplain Jean Schneck followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Fifty members were in attendance.

This was the 31st birthday meeting. The "goodie bags" were won by Blanche Koehler, Adele Llewellyn and Anita Sausser. Karen Schweigert gave two funny readings that members enjoyed.

Those members in medical facilities who are recuperating from illnesses or surgery are Harry Russell, a guest at ManorCare Health Services, Pottsville, and Ann Harding, a guest at Seton Manor, Orwigsburg.

The office of recording secretary has been filled by Mary Ann Hufnagle. The position was previously filled by Cindy Schoener, travel coordinator.

Overnight trips are being planned by Schoener are Cape Cod, Mass., Oct. 14-17, and Williamsburg, Va., "Winter Wonderland," Dec. 4-6. Anyone interested in joining us on these trips can call her at 570-366-1111. Reservations are limited.

Upcoming community events were announced, including a Friendly's fundraiser to benefit the Island Park Committee, Monday; American Red Cross blood drive at Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church, Dock Street, Thursday; and Mayor's Advisory Meeting, 7 p.m. March 18 at the senior center.

Entertainment for the evening was presented by Brenda Frankenstein who sang "Happy Birthday" and a selection of country songs and oldies.

Blue Mountain

Rebecca Downey, a senior at Blue Mountain High School, was chosen as one of the students of the month for December by the Blue Mountain School District. She received the award at the school board's monthly meeting.

A distinguished honor roll student, Rebecca is a member of the National Honor Society and the Russel S. Petrucka Chapter of the Social Studies Honor Society. She attended the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in Washington, D.C.

Rebecca has participated in the following clubs and activities: International club, Leo Club, newspaper, senior planning committee, peer helpers, Red Cross blood drive and Special Olympics.

Rebecca volunteers at the Reading Hospital and Medical Center Child Development Center, where she has provided care for infants and toddlers of medical professionals at the hospital's Community Garden Party, St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church's picnic and the Pottsville Knights of Columbus Thanksgiving meal delivery. She also enjoys taking classes in American sign language and was featured in a recent Republican-Herald article on sign language.

Rebecca plans to attend American University, Washington, D.C., to study public health.

She is a daughter of Edward and Lisa Downey, Orwigsburg area.

Shen Rotary

Samantha Pascavage, a senior at Shenandoah Valley High School, was chosen as student of the month for February by the Shenandoah Rotary Club.

Samantha's high school activities include student council and the yearbook, formal and float committees. She is flags captain, National Honor Society secretary, and was the 2012 homecoming queen.

Her out-of-school activities include American Cancer Society fundraisers, First United Methodist Church activities, Toys for Tots and American Red Cross bloodmobile. She is also an SPCA dog walker.

A daughter of Mark and Lydia Pascavage, Shenandoah, she plans to attend college to major in a pre-physical therapy program.

Minersville Area

Minersville Area High School seniors James Brophy and Jaynie Moran were named students of the month for February.

James is an honor student and a member of the varsity baseball, basketball and football teams.

He volunteers for the American Red Cross blood drive and coaches CYO basketball. He is a member of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, Minersville, where he serves as an usher.

James plans to attend Pennsylvania College of Technology, Williamsport, to major in construction management with architecture.

He is a son of Martin and Connie Brophy, Minersville.

Jaynie is a member of the National Honor Society, book club, yearbook, 1700 Club and Teens Against Tobacco. She is chemistry club secretary, band front captain and an athletic director assistant.

In the community, she volunteers and delivers food with Minersville food banks.

Jaynie's future plans are to study biology at Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, go to medical school and become a doctor. She is a daughter of Tom and Sharon Moran, Minersville, and a member of St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church, Minersville, where she is an altar server and volunteer.

The sport of billiards, as we know it, originated in the 15th century with the ruling classes of Europe. The game quickly attracted court members and commoners alike. Billiards has long been a game that has blurred socio-economic lines. The age-old game now enjoys a revival in the world of antiques collecting.

The earliest version of our contemporary game of pool was originally called ground billiards. It was a game played outdoors on grass, like croquet. Over time, the game was moved indoors and played with cues on a green fabric-covered table to recall the color of the grassy lawn.

While the French kings were the first to own billiard tables, circa 1470, many of history's most famous figures played billiards. Some historic pool sharks include Mary Queen of Scots, William Shakespeare, Mozart, Napoleon, King Louis XIV, King Louis XVI and Maria Antoinette, General Lafayette, President George Washington, President John Quincy Adams, President Abraham Lincoln, Mark Twain, Charles Dickens, Queen Victoria, Cornelius Vanderbilt and H.G. Wells, to name a few.

Today, many people are partaking in the revival of pool, collecting pool memorabilia and decorating game rooms with vintage and antique pool tables, racks and accessories. Stars like Ozzy Osbourne had an antique pool table in his Malibu home and Elvis revived interest in the game with a table in his basement den at Graceland in Memphis.

Game rooms featuring billiards tables and bars recall the golden age of billiard salons. Following the gaming tastes of America's businessmen and robber barons like Cornelius Vanderbilt and J. P. Morgan in the early 20th century, collectors continue to seek out antique billiard tables, cue racks and vintage billiard balls. The strong market for period billiard tables made of maple, walnut and rosewood entices collectors to pay upwards of $25,000 and $100,000 for some fine Victorian tables.

Some of the most popular Brunswick pool tables were the Union League, the Nonpareil and the Monarch lines. Often, these large scale and impressive billiard tables were intended for a home's overtly masculine game room reviving the Classical decorating style of the late 19th century.

In America, the majority of pool tables were produced by Brunswick-Balke-Collendar. In the Victorian age (circa 1837-1901), pool table designs featured solid hardwoods, inlaid ivory diamond sights, marquetry work, Roman style leaf motifs and/or geometric Greek key patterns borrowed from the architecture of the ancient world.

It is not uncommon for a collection of antique billiard objects including a table, cue rack, cue sticks and hand-made leather pockets to have an insurance value exceeding $125,000. Whether or not you play the game, don't disregard that really heavy pool table in your grandmother's basement - odds are it's quite valuable.

(Dr. Lori presents antiques appraisal events nationwide and is an appraiser on Discovery channel's Auction Kings. Visit www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori or (888) 431-1010.)

Grants are now available to volunteer firefighting companies in Pennsylvania.

"If this will help fulfill some of their needs, we encourage them to apply," Bob Kurilla, assistant district forester with the Weiser Forest District, which covers seven counties including Schuylkill, said Monday.

The Volunteer Firefighter Assistance Grants are given out by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry. Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Agricultural Forest Service.

Last year, more than $540,000 was given out to 141 volunteer firefighting companies, according to the state.

Deadline to apply is 4 p.m. May 23. Applications must be submitted online through the DCNR's eGrant website, www.grants.dcnr.state.pa.us.

Municipalities with populations of less than 10,000 people are eligible. Based on funding received, a fire company may be eligible for an additional grant during a specified time period. The maximum grant for 2013 is $7,500.

The purpose of the grants is to save lives and protect property in rural areas that need it for brush or forest fires.

The grant is a matching grant, meaning the total will not be more than 50 percent of the cost of the grant request.

Money can be used for such items as protective clothing, fire suppression equipment, radios, installation of dry hydrants and other items.

Three firefighting companies received funds in Schuylkill County last year, the Polish American Fire Company No. 4, Shenandoah, Rangers Hose Company, Girardville, and the South Ward Fire Company, Tamaqua.

Mark Bower, fire chief of the South Ward Fire Company, which covers Tamaqua and surrounding communities, said Thursday the $3,000 received was very appreciated.

The fire company purchased 20 sets of wildland firefighting gear, which included pants, shirts and helmets.

"We had very old, obsolete gear," he said, adding it was probably about 16 years old.

The company has 35 active firefighters.

"We just could not come up with the extra funds to do that," he said if they had to purchase the $6,000 worth of equipment.

The company had to pay $3,000 for their share of the clothing and helmets.

Frank Zangari Jr., chief of the Girardville Fire Department, also said Thursday the funds are appreciated

The Rangers Hose Company received $800 last year. They used it to purchase 10 mounted lights on helmets for firefighters and a Gated-Y appliance, an aluminium, alloy device that is attached to the fire truck and has two openings for different hoses. The department contributed $800 for the purchase of the items. The lights were about $110 each and the other device was more than $500.

Before buying the lights, firefighters had to carry in lights with them. Now their hands are free to use other equipment and for other uses, he said.

"For me, it's a safety issue. They can now take a tool in. They can now take the hose in and not worry about carrying that light also or clipping that light onto where it's going to get caught. It's on their helmet," he said.

Zangari said fire companies should take advantage of the grant to update much needed equipment.

Haven seniors

The Schuylkill Haven Senior Citizens Association, 340 Haven St., Schuylkill Haven, met Feb. 25.

The meeting opened with a prayer by Chaplain Jean Schneck followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Fifty members were in attendance.

This was the 31st birthday meeting. The "goodie bags" were won by Blanche Koehler, Adele Llewellyn and Anita Sausser. Karen Schweigert gave two funny readings that members enjoyed.

Those members in medical facilities who are recuperating from illnesses or surgery are Harry Russell, a guest at ManorCare Health Services, Pottsville, and Ann Harding, a guest at Seton Manor, Orwigsburg.

The office of recording secretary has been filled by Mary Ann Hufnagle. The position was previously filled by Cindy Schoener, travel coordinator.

Overnight trips are being planned by Schoener are Cape Cod, Mass., Oct. 14-17, and Williamsburg, Va., "Winter Wonderland," Dec. 4-6. Anyone interested in joining us on these trips can call her at 570-366-1111. Reservations are limited.

Upcoming community events were announced, including a Friendly's fundraiser to benefit the Island Park Committee, Monday; American Red Cross blood drive at Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church, Dock Street, Thursday; and Mayor's Advisory Meeting, 7 p.m. March 18 at the senior center.

Entertainment for the evening was presented by Brenda Frankenstein who sang "Happy Birthday" and a selection of country songs and oldies.

Stephen J. Bayer

TAMAQUA - A 32-year-old Jim Thorpe man charged with sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl between May of 2009 and March of 2011 had charges against him held to court during a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Stephen J. Bayer.

Michael C. Gallagher, 50 E. Seventh St., was arrested by Schuylkill County Detective Martin Heckman and charged with five counts of indecent assault and one count of indecent exposure, all misdemeanor charges, as well as a felony count of corruption of minors.

Bayer determined the commonwealth provided a prima facie case and ordered all seven charges for Schuylkill County Court.

Heckman said the charges stem from Heckman having sexual contact with the teenager in both Coaldale and Jim Thorpe. During that time period, Heckman said Gallagher touched the girl inappropriately and also exposed himself and placed the girl's hand on him.

In a separate complaint stemming from incident between Oct. 2010 and March 2011 in Coaldale, Bayer ordered four counts of indecent assault and one count each of indecent exposure and corruption of minors against Gallagher held to court as well.

Other court cases included:

Angela F. Bartholomew, 41, of 108 Snyder Ave., McAdoo - held for court: defiant trespass, harassment, theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property.

Rachael A. Zellers, 37, of 435 S. Kennedy Drive, Apt. 1, McAdoo - waived for court: DUI, disorderly conduct and no headlights.

Michael J. Stetts, 57, of 56 Roosevelt Drive, Morea - waived for court: DUI, restrictions on alcoholic beverages and careless driving.

Kevin W. Warmkessel, 24, of 908 Park Ave., Port Carbon - waived for court: possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Ion A. Nedici, 18, of 197 S. Pine St., Hazleton - waived for court: DUI-minor, DUI-high rate, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, purchase of alcohol by a minor and no headlights.

Jonathan Lee Potter, 26, of 234 E. Washington St., McAdoo - withdrawn: careless driving. Waived for court: DUI-high rate, DUI and no headlights.

John C. Renner, 33, of 221 Washington St., Tamaqua - held for court: fleeing or attempting to elude police, driving at an unsafe speed, driving without a license, obedience to traffic control signals, duties at a stop sign and failure to stop and render aid.

Robert C. Carelli Jr., 22, of 25 Twain Circle, Sugarloaf - withdrawn: possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no rear lights, careless driving and scattering rubbish. Waived for court: DUI-controlled substance.

Kristi Raymer, 22, of 1331 Dartmouth St., Scranton - waived for court: DUI and DUI-high rate.

Jackson G. Rosario, 37, of 898 N. Vine St., Hazleton - waived for court: DUI, DUI-high rate, period requiring lighted lamps, careless driving and restrictions on alcoholic beverages.

Mariah L. Lewis, 18, of 134 W. Fell St., Summit Hill - waived for court: theft of leased property and receiving stolen property.

Leah M. Hornish, 21, of 1218 Route 2012, Clifford Township _ waived for court: disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Anthony J. Kilker

SHENANDOAH - A 32-year-old Shenandoah man charged with assaulting his girlfriend with a knife on Jan. 14 had charges against him held to court during a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker.

Michael C. Linkchorst, 4 Chunky Lane, was arrested by state police Trooper Mario Pompei and charged with one count each of terroristic threats, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person and harassment.

Kilker determined the Commonwealth proved a prima facie case and ordered all four offenses held for Schuylkill County Court.

Pompei charged Linkchorst with getting into an argument with Shantae Kline during which the woman said Linkchorst became physical while she was packing up to leave.

Linkchorst grabbed the woman by the hair, threw her onto the kitchen floor and sat on her stomach and grabbed her by the throat, Pompei said. The woman said that when she threatened to call police, Linkchorst told her that he would "make it worth her while by killing her," the trooper said.

Other court cases included:

James E. Dickson, 41, of 3264 N. 13th St., Philadelphia - held for court: providing inaccurate information. Dismissed: failure to provide accurate registration information.

William M. Andrews Jr., 29, of 133 Railroad Ave., Frackville - waived for court: DUI, DUI-highest rate, driving the wrong way, careless driving and driving at an unsafe speed.

Angelo Rojas, 33, of 19 E. Pine St., Mahanoy City - waived for court: theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property.

Jeffrey D. Grove, 46, of 276 Trout Run Road, Zion Grove - waived for court: DUI, restrictions on alcoholic beverages and driving without a license.

Victor Zavala, 20, of 502 W. Centre St., Shenandoah - waived for court: DUI, DUI-highest rate, driving without a license and careless driving.

Nathan Forker, 29, of 229 N. Bower St., Shenandoah - dismissed: simple assault, harassment and disorderly conduct.

Krystle L. Ketchledge, 22, of 13 S. Market St., Shenandoah - waived for court: DUI, backing a vehicle improperly, driving on a sidewalk, careless driving, accidents involving damage to unattended vehicles or property and failure to notify police of an accident.

Lock Haven

Brett Whiteash, a senior computer information science major with a concentration in data base and network administration, made the dean's list for the fall semester at Lock Haven University.

He is a son of David and Beth Whiteash, Pottsville, and a 2009 graduate of Minersville Area High School.

Albright

Lauren R. Pupko, a junior psychology and Spanish major, made the dean's list for the fall semester at Albright College, Reading, with a 4.0 GPA.

She is a daughter of Rosanne Long, Mahanoy City, and a 2010 graduate of Marian High School.

Messiah

Shaun Soliday, Tower City, a junior business administration major at Messiah College, Grantham, was named to the dean's list for the fall semester.

He is a son of Jeff and Lisa Soliday, Tower City.

Wilkes

Trevor Strenchock, who is pursing a doctor of pharmacy degree, has been named to the dean's list for the 11th consecutive semester at Wilkes University, Wilkes-Barre.

He is a son of Marie Strenchock, Morea, and the late Pete Strenchock, and a 2007 graduate of Mahanoy Area High School.

Cornell

Tyler Maley, Schuylkill Haven, was named to the dean's list of the College of Arts and Sciences for Excellence in Scholarship for the fall semester at Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y.

He is a son of Tom and Lori Maley, Schuylkill Haven, and a grandson of George and Helen Barnes, Saint Clair, and a 2011 graduate of Blue Mountain High School.

Syracuse

Cody Bruso, Hegins, a junior majoring in entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises, was named to the dean's list for the fall semester at Syracuse University Whitman School of Management with a 3.4 GPA.

He is a 2010 Tri-Valley High School graduate and a son of Bruce and Amy Bruso, Hegins.

Old Dominion

Brandon Choate, a exercise science major at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Va., made the dean's list for the fall semester.

He is a son of Cort and Gail Choate, Orwigsburg.

West Chester

Sara Nestor, Ashland, a junior majoring in health and physical education at West Chester University, achieved dean's list honors for the fall semester.

She is a daughter of Stan and Nancy Nestor and a 2010 graduate of North Schuylkill High School.

Penn College

Carmen Cicioni, a freshman majoring in automotive restoration at Pennsylvania College of Technology, Williamsport, made the dean's list for the fall semester.

A 2012 graduate of North Schuylkill High School, he is a son of Dino and Karen Cicioni, Ringtown.

Elizabethtown

Allison Salata, a freshman accounting major at Elizabethtown College, made the dean's list for the fall semester with a 4.0 GPA.

A daughter of Glenn and Terri Salata, Pottsville, she is a 2012 graduate of Pottsville Area High School.

Susquehanna

John Slater, Ashland, a sophomore biology major, made the dean's list for the fall semester at Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove.

A 2011 graduate of Tri-Valley High School, he is a son of John and Donna Slater.

Penn State

Samuel Kantner made the dean's list for the fall semester at Penn State University with a 3.87 GPA. He is an actuarial science major in the Smeal College of Business and is enrolled in the Schreyer Honors College.

A 2012 graduate of Blue Mountain High School, he is a son of Melinda Kantner, Cressona, and John Kantner, Orwigsburg.

St. Joseph

Kristian Zanis, a sophomore actuarial science major at St. Joseph's University, Philadelphia, made the dean's list for the fall semester.

A 2011 graduate of Pottsville Area High School, he is a son of Steve and Chris Zanis, Pottsville, and a grandson of Gladys Kuperavage, Port Carbon, and Ronald and Mary Ann Pillo, Pottsville.

Alvernia

The following local students have been named to the dean's list at Alvernia University, Reading, for the fall semester:

Sara Achenbach, Frackville, a senior accounting major and a graduate of North Schuylkill High School; Amanda Cannon, Pottsville, a junior criminal justice major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School; Amanda Chappell, Wiconisco, a freshman forensic science major and a graduate of Williams Valley High School; Shaina Dailey, Hamburg, a freshman psychology major and a graduate of Hamburg Area High School; Kacie Dallatore, Orwigsburg, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of Blue Mountain High School; Edward Downey, Schuylkill Haven, a senior business management major and a graduate of Shenandoah Valley High School; Dillon Emery, Locustdale, a junior sport management major and a graduate of North Schuylkill High School; Tracy Freeman, Donaldson, a sophomore business management major and a graduate of Pine Grove Area High School; Veronica Galan, Cressona, a senior accounting major and a graduate of Governor Mifflin High School; Leanne Generella, Pottsville, a senior psychology major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School; Casey Green, Ashland, a sophomore forensic science major and a graduate of Tri-Valley High School.

Bridget Haffey, Deer Lake, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of Nativity BVM High School; Christa Hart, Shenandoah, a senior business administration major and a graduate of Mount Carmel Area High School; Amanda Kadingo, Pottsville, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School; Sheri Kaufman, Pine Grove, a junior math and English/language/reading major and a graduate of Pine Grove Area High School; Gloria Keyes, New Philadelphia, a senior biology major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School: Fajjr Khan, Schuylkill Haven, a junior theater studies major and a graduate of Blue Mountain High School; Diane Lillington, Hamburg, a junior behavioral health major and a graduate of Hamburg Area High School; Amanda McCauley, Frackville, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of North Schuylkill High School; Kaysi McLaughlin, Tamaqua, a freshman special education pre-k-8/ECE Cert pre-k-4 major and a graduate of Marian High School.

Michelle Ochenrider, Schuylkill Haven, a senior criminal justice major and a graduate of Blue Mountain High School; Helen Rebuck, Ashland, a senior behavioral health studies major; Benjamin Schuettler, Port Carbon, a senior occupational therapy major and a graduate of Pottsville Area High School; Jamie Shiffer, Pine Grove, a senior accounting major and a graduate of Pine Grove Area High School; Danielle Shobe, Pine Grove, a senior elementary education/special ed major; Loren Staten, Pottsville, a freshman criminal justice major; Leandra Thacker, Minersville, a junior early childhood pre-K-4 major and a graduate of Minersville Area High School; Gabriella Valenti, Pottsville, a freshman special education pre-k-8/ECE Cert pre-k-4 major and a graduate of Blue Mountain High School; Danielle Wank, Pottsville, a junior early childhood pre-k-4 major.

Blue Mountain

Rebecca Downey, a senior at Blue Mountain High School, was chosen as one of the students of the month for December by the Blue Mountain School District. She received the award at the school board's monthly meeting.

A distinguished honor roll student, Rebecca is a member of the National Honor Society and the Russel S. Petrucka Chapter of the Social Studies Honor Society. She attended the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in Washington, D.C.

Rebecca has participated in the following clubs and activities: International club, Leo Club, newspaper, senior planning committee, peer helpers, Red Cross blood drive and Special Olympics.

Rebecca volunteers at the Reading Hospital and Medical Center Child Development Center, where she has provided care for infants and toddlers of medical professionals at the hospital's Community Garden Party, St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church's picnic and the Pottsville Knights of Columbus Thanksgiving meal delivery. She also enjoys taking classes in American sign language and was featured in a recent Republican-Herald article on sign language.

Rebecca plans to attend American University, Washington, D.C., to study public health.

She is a daughter of Edward and Lisa Downey, Orwigsburg area.

Shen Rotary

Samantha Pascavage, a senior at Shenandoah Valley High School, was chosen as student of the month for February by the Shenandoah Rotary Club.

Samantha's high school activities include student council and the yearbook, formal and float committees. She is flags captain, National Honor Society secretary, and was the 2012 homecoming queen.

Her out-of-school activities include American Cancer Society fundraisers, First United Methodist Church activities, Toys for Tots and American Red Cross bloodmobile. She is also an SPCA dog walker.

A daughter of Mark and Lydia Pascavage, Shenandoah, she plans to attend college to major in a pre-physical therapy program.

Minersville Area

Minersville Area High School seniors James Brophy and Jaynie Moran were named students of the month for February.

James is an honor student and a member of the varsity baseball, basketball and football teams.

He volunteers for the American Red Cross blood drive and coaches CYO basketball. He is a member of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, Minersville, where he serves as an usher.

James plans to attend Pennsylvania College of Technology, Williamsport, to major in construction management with architecture.

He is a son of Martin and Connie Brophy, Minersville.

Jaynie is a member of the National Honor Society, book club, yearbook, 1700 Club and Teens Against Tobacco. She is chemistry club secretary, band front captain and an athletic director assistant.

In the community, she volunteers and delivers food with Minersville food banks.

Jaynie's future plans are to study biology at Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, go to medical school and become a doctor. She is a daughter of Tom and Sharon Moran, Minersville, and a member of St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church, Minersville, where she is an altar server and volunteer.

Spring thaw means it's time to schedule your Diakon Living and Learning After 50 courses. The creative and enthusiastic folks at Diakon continue to grow their seminar selections, so there's something for everyone. Areas of interest range from travel to clubs, the arts to health and tons in between. Have you ever considered learning to speak Chinese or weave a basket? Make your own paper or grow an herb garden? They also offer country line dancing, Tia Chi, the healing of Chakra and many other health and wellness choices. Trips and special events are also scheduled.

You can find the complete list at http://www.diakon.org/community-services-for-seniors/Living-Learning-After-50/. The courses are offered at different times throughout the spring, so register now to guarantee your spot. You can also call them at 624-3018 for more information.

Save the date: Rest Haven Nursing Home in Schuylkill Haven is hosting a health and wellness fair from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 3. More than 20 vendors will provide health screenings, door prizes and light refreshments. For more information, call 385-0331.

Easter is in less than three weeks. Lessies' Garden invites you to an Easter open house March 23. Buy local: It's a good thing.

This time of year sees an increase in blood drives. There's one tomorrow at the Schuylkill Medical Center Jackson Street. Additional drives will be held at the First UMC in Mahanoy City on Tuesday, at the Jerusalem Lutheran Church in Schuylkill Haven on Thursday and at the Fairlane Village Mall on Saturday. Everyone who is in general good health who weighs at least 110 pounds is encouraged to give. One donation can save up to three people.

It's not too early to start your landscaping planning. Sweet Arrow Lake has a program that sounds like a lot of fun to me. Bring your green thumb to a seed starting clinic from 7 to 9 p.m. March 26. Learn tips and techniques that will ensure that your vegetables and annuals get off to a good start for the growing season. The event is free and open to the public and is appropriate for teens and adults. Call 527-2505 for details.

Downtown Shenandoah's monthly soup sale is slated for Thursday. A variety of soups will be available. Call 462-2060 for advance orders.

For information about volunteer opportunities, call Community Volunteers in Action at 628-1426, e-mail jjohnston@co,.schuylkill.pa.us or go to www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Community-Volunteers-in-Action.

5K walk/run volunteers

Times: April 27

Responsibility: Help staff with event.

Location: Bartram Trail

Contact: Cheryl, Carenet of Schuylkill County, 624-7244.

Library aides

Times: Flexible

Responsibility: Help staff with sorting books, other tasks.

Skills: Age 55 and above. Responsible and friendly.

Location: Various libraries within Schuylkill County.

Contact: Sue Conner, RSVP, 622-3103.

A man was killed Saturday morning when the car he was working fell on top of him and apparently crushed him to death.

State police at Frackville said Ricky Dye, 41, was pronounced dead at the scene in a grassy area behind his 21 Pattersonville Road home at 12:20 p.m. by Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner Andrew Szczyglak, Shenandoah.

Ringtown EMS and Shenandoah ALS assisted at the scene.