FRACKVILLE — A man was jailed Wednesday, charged with sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl over several weeks last year.

David J. Whipple, 22, of 367 Preston Ave., Girardville, was charged by state police Trooper Alan Zulick of the Frackville station with one felony count each of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, statutory sexual assault and corruption of minors as well as misdemeanor offenses of indecent exposure and indecent assault, and a summary charge of harassment.

Whipple was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Christina E. Hale, Frackville, and committed to Schuylkill County Prison, unable to post $100,000 straight cash bail.

Zulick charged Whipple with incidents that occurred at his home at various times between Aug. 29 and Sept. 17.

The charges are the result of an investigation that began on Sept. 17 when Trooper Mario Pompei was called to Girardville and spoke to teenager who said she was having a sexual relationship with Whipple.

The girl said that relationship was going on for about three weeks and that the two had sex several times a day, Zulick said.

The girl said that on Sept. 17, Whipple had become angry with her for “hanging out” with other boys and was drunk when he confronted her at the Girardville Post Office, Zulick said.

Zulick said the girl reported it was there that Whipple grabbed her by the face, tried to kiss her and then convinced her to go back to his home.

The girl said that Whipple began to berate her and threatened to commit suicide if she did not have sex with him right then and there, Zulick said, adding that the teen told him she had sex because she felt compelled to out of guilt.

After having sex, the girl said, Whipple grabbed her by the face repeatedly but she was able to leave the residence.

On Sept. 22, Zulick said, he interviewed Whipple, who said he was in love with the girl and that he “made love” to her and it wasn’t just sex to him.

Then, on Oct. 1, the girl was interviewed again and said she and Whipple had intercourse several times a day prior to the Sept. 17 incident and on that day she felt she was not free to leave the Whipple home and was scared he was going to kill himself, Zulick said.

Whipple will now have to answer to the charges against him at a preliminary hearing before Hale in her Frackville courtroom.

James K. Reiley

A 38-year-old inmate at Schuylkill County Prison charged with assaulting a corrections officer on April 8 had a felony charge of aggravated harassment by prisoner held for court during a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley, Pottsville.

Shaheed K. Cameron was arrested by Pottsville police Cpl. Charles Webber for the assault of officer Michael Menne who was serving him a disciplinary citation.

Webber said Cameron verbally threatened to throw urine on the officer and then threw a cup of urine out of the bottom of his cell, just missing Menne’s shoes and legs.

In a separate incident, Reiley held an additional charge of aggravated harassment of Menne held to court as well. That charge was filed against Cameron by Pottsville police Patrolman Joseph Murton Jr.

Other court cases included:

Marcus T. Anderson, 42, of 316 N. 12th St., Pottsville — waived for court: false identification to law enforcement, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Bridget Ann Steffie, 36, of 25 S. Coal St., Apt. 3, Port Carbon — waived for court: theft and receiving stolen property.

Rebekah R. Johnson, 32, LKA 1107 E. Arch St., Ashland — held for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Allison M. Hicks, 40, of 360 Front St., Pottsville — waived for court: forgery, identity theft, theft by deception, bad checks and receiving stolen property.

Jeffrey C. Swiger, 49, of 360 Front St., Pottsville — waived for court: forgery, identity theft, theft by deception, bad checks and receiving stolen property.

Paul D. Compinski Jr., 31, of 319 W. Market St., Rear Apt., Pottsville — waived for court: possession of a controlled substance, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Andrew P. Chillemi, 34, of 203 N. Third St., Pottsville — possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, endangering the welfare of children, resisting arrest, defiant trespass, possession of a controlled substance, criminal trespass and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Denette H. Williams, 32, of 1330 Spruce St., Ashland — held for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Brian C. Delussey, 22, of 615 Maple St., Hamburg — waived for court: DUI-controlled substance, careless driving and failure to use safety belts.

Marcus T. Anderson, 42, of 316 N. 12th St., Pottsville — waived for court: defiant trespass, public drunkenness, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Steven C. Peiffer, 36, of SCI/Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh — held for court: theft and receiving stolen property.

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

Allison M. Hicks, 40, of 260 Front St., Pottsville — waived for court: DUI-controlled substance, driving with a suspended or revoked license and careless driving.

Robert J. Sadusky, 44, of 447 E. Norwegian St., Pottsville — waived for court: DUI, DUI-highest rate, careless driving and driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked.

Joshua S. Generella, 27, of 613 Harrison St., Pottsville — waived for court: possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kenneth W. Rich III, 24, of 1314 W. Norwegian St., Apt. 2, Pottsville — waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia.

Bettyann Harmer, 44, of 515 School St., Minersville — waived for court: fraudulently obtaining food stamps or assistance.

Nicole E. Brobst, 21, of 900 Fairview St., Pottsville — waived for court: public drunkenness, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Richard B. Allen, 51, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — waived for court: indecent assault and corruption of minors.

Elizabeth N. Galen, 33, of 208 Center Ave., Schuylkill Haven — dismissed: fraudulently obtaining food stamps or assistance.

Alexandra L. Marceau, 22, of 2617 Wynonah Drive, Auburn — waived for court: possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sandra A. McDaniel, 44, of 443 Nichols St., Pottsville — waived for court: DUI, DUI-highest rate and careless driving.

Dale J. Dewald, 54, of 329 Main St., Gilberton — waived for court: DUI-high rate, disregard for single traffic lane, following too closely and careless driving.

Sam Anthony Dorshimer, 29, of 1216 W. Norwegian St., Apt. 2, Pottsville — waived for court: possession of a controlled substance, false identification to law enforcement, driving while operating privileges are suspended or revoked and improper sun screening.

Lisa A. Davis, 52, of 145 Chamberlain Ave., Box 67, Pottsville — held for court: DUI-controlled substance, disregard for single traffic lane, careless driving and driving a vehicle without a valid inspection.

Ralph J. Caruano Jr., 62, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — waived for court: criminal use of a communications facility, possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Raymond J. McNitsky, 40, of 743 E. Norwegian St., Pottsville — waived for court: DUI-controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, careless driving and accidents involving damage to unattended vehicles or property.

Brittany L. Guris, 26, of 36 Kimber St., Apt. B, New Philadelphia — waived for court: furnishing drug-free urine.

Margaret N. Hunsinger, 20, of 1758 W. Market St., Pottsville — waived for court: bad checks.

Renee E. Gibas, 44, of Schuylkill County Prison, Pottsville — waived for court: furnishing drug-free urine.

Victor Green, 23, of 406 W. Norwegian St., Pottsville — waived for court: possession of a small amount of marijuana.

Michael J. McGuinness, 21, of 429 Wheeler St., Pottsville — held for court: possession of drug paraphernalia.

Steven J. Platts, 29, of 30 Ann St., Pottsville — withdrawn: forgery and theft by deception.

Jennifer R. Fenstermaker, 24, of 712 Mahantongo St., Apt. 4, Pottsville — waived for court: theft, burglary, theft by deception and receiving stolen property.

n Ashland: The annual Memorial Day parade and program will be held beginning at 10:45 a.m. Monday with the parade beginning at Memorial Field and moving east on Centre Street to the Mother’s Memorial, where the program will be held at 11 a.m. The Veterans of Foreign Wars O’Donnell-Martin-Baldino Post 7654 and American Legion Bernard J. Dolan Post 434 will participate. The main speaker will be VFW Post Commander Wilmer Quick. Bryel Frasch will sing patriotic songs and Ashland Fire Chief Philip Groody will be master of ceremonies. North Schuylkill sixth-grader Dillon O’Neill will read his essay, “What Freedom Means to Me.” The essay won second place at the regional level in the VFW Patriot’s Pen essay contest. After the program, both veterans posts will serve a hot meal to all participants and the public.

n Frackville: “Fun Out of the Sun” will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the Schuylkill Mall in June and July, with free lunch and a craft and a $1 movie hosted by Pearl Theaters. After the movie, children 12 and younger will receive a free craft and lunch. Call 570-874-2526.

n Lehighton: The 27th annual Ukrainian Folk Dance Workshop, sponsored by the Ukrainian American Heritage Foundation of the Lower Anthracite Region, will be held at the Ukrainian Homestead of CEC, ODWU Inc., 1230 Beaver Run Drive, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 27 through July 1. The camp includes dance instruction, folk singing, sports, crafts and swimming. Beginner instruction is offered to children ages 5 and older and advanced workshop instruction is available for experienced dancers ages 11 through adult. The camp will conclude with a free performance at 7 p.m. July 2. The Manor College Ukrainian Heritage Studies Center will also offer a workshop in the art of gerdany beadwork from 10 a.m. to noon June 28 and 30, open to adults and including beginner and advanced designs. For more information on the camp or the gerdany workshop, call Paula Holoviak at 570-708-1992 or Sandra Duda at 610-377-7750 or email to holoviak@kutztown.edu. Forms and information are available at www.kazkaensemble.org. The camp is supported by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts through its regional arts funding partnership, Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts.

n Mahanoy City: The Washington Hook and Ladder Fire Company, 35 E. Mahanoy Ave., will have a car wash from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the firehouse, weather permitting. The cost is $5 for exterior only and $15 for exterior and interior.

n Pine Grove: A music festival will be held June 4 at the Hose, Hook & Ladder Fairgrounds with all proceeds going to the Pine Grove Area Education Foundation for a scholarship in the name of Ricky Kline. All participating musicians are donating their time, including Van Wagner, a former Pine Grove Area teacher and now an environmental science teacher at Lewisburg High School. For more information, call Ken Gibson, Pine Grove Area dean of students and high school band director, at 570-345-2731, ext. 206.

n Schuylkill Haven: The Rainbow Hose Company, 417 Dock St., will have a block party from 6 to 11 p.m. June 2, 3 and 4, with food, rides and entertainment. June 2 is Family Night with disc jockeys Ray and Steph; Route 61 will perform at 7 p.m. June 3 and Tool Shed Jack will be on stage at 7 p.m. June 3. Call 570-573-1333.

n Shenandoah: Due to the Memorial Day holiday, the borough hall will be closed Monday. Monday’s trash collection will be on Tuesday and Tuesday’s collection will be on Wednesday. There will be no recycling collection Wednesday. Thursday’s trash collection will remain the same. Recycling on the west side of the borough will resume June 8.

n Williamstown: Parade Marshal Ray Stine announced the annual Memorial Day Parade sponsored by American Legion Post 239 and VFW Post 6497 will be held Monday. The parade will form at 9:30 a.m. at the former Santander Bank parking lot and step off at 9:45 a.m. Services will be at Veterans Memorial Park. Afterward, a light lunch will be served at American Legion and VFW canteens.

TAMAQUA — For Tamaqua Area High School graduates, it was a warm, beautiful night to start the rest of their lives.

On Wednesday evening, clad in blue and white, the 171 graduates of the Class of 2016 made their way from the school grounds to the stadium one last time, marking their next steps into their futures.

Commencement began with performances by the senior members of the Tamaqua Jazz Chorale, as well as the traditional passing of the gavel to the Class of 2017.

“This time last year, I attended graduation to accept this gavel. Now, almost a year later, I am passing the gavel onto Josh Gordon, who will lead his class through their senior year,” class president and honors graduate Allison Amodea said. “It’s amazing to think about all that has happened since I was in Josh’s position, and my class in theirs. There are so many different adjectives to describe this feeling, but the only way for me to summarize it in one all-encompassing adjective would be to say ‘uneasy.’ ”

Despite their uneasiness, the Class of 2016 strode headlong into their future as alumni of Tamaqua High, receiving plenty of advice along the way.

The common theme of the evening seemed to be ‘lists of advice to take with you,’ with sentiments echoed by Stephen Toth, principal of Tamaqua Area High School; Carol Makuta, superintendent of Tamaqua Area School District; and the commencement speaker, Ivonne Maldonado Charbonneau, an Air Force captain and TAHS alumna of the Class of 2003.

Charbonneau graduated from Tamaqua in 2003 and has had a decorated career with the Air Force, currently ranked as a captain. She has received an Air Force Commendation Medal, holds a master of science degree in management from American Military University, and is the Enhanced Flight Termination System program manager at the Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles Air Force Base.

Or, as Charbonneau summed it up, “we launch rockets, and it’s pretty darn cool.”

Charbonneau addressed the class on her list of advice, based on the popular lists found on sites such as BuzzFeed, titled “The Five Things You Should Know Before You Go.”

“Go where? Feel free to fill in the blank,” Charbonneau said. “Before you go to college. Before you go into the workforce. Before you leave for basic training. Before you go home, Heisler’s, senior week, Knoebels — you get it.”

Her speech focused on the importance of taking care of yourself and working hard, all the while remembering the importance of your roots.

“There’s something very wonderful about this place,” she said. “The blue mountains, the sweet-smelling green fields, the diners, the farmers markets and, most importantly, the people.”

“I love driving up 309, passing the roads my bus used to take, the EZ-market where gas used to be $1.15, and my best friend’s house in New Ringgold,” she added. “Never forget your roots and the people who have helped you become who you are or who you want to be.”

The Tamaqua Area Class of 2016 was very decorated, as Principal Stephen Toth acclaimed.

“Forty-three students plan to go directly on to a four-year college or university, 98 plan to go to associate degree programs, business or trade schools, 10 plan to enter the profession of education, nine plan to enter a branch of the service, 21 have made commitments for employment. So 171 of you have made choices for your future,” he said.

The salutatorian for the Class of 2016 was Kyle Patrick, son of Rich and Penny Patrick. Kyle’s cumulative average was a 99.81, and he plans to attend Lebanon Valley College and major in biochemistry.

The valedictorian was Catherine Minehan, daughter of Dominic and Joyce Minehan. Catherine’s cumulative average was a 100.28, and she plans to attend Cornell University and dual major in pre-veterinary and animal sciences.

Catherine led the farewell address for her classmates, ushering in the end of a chapter for many of the graduates. Her speech, listing tidbits of valuable advice such as “always make your bed” and “be sure to find a best friend,” closed out the evening as the sun set over the Tamaqua Area stadium.

“As for my classmates and I, let’s stay on the top of the world and never look down,” Minehan said. “May each and every one of us be blessed in all of our future endeavors. Farewell, Class of 2016!”

MAR LIN — Ninety-five students from 10 school districts in the county proved their math smarts Wednesday during the Schuylkill IU 29 24 Challenge Tournament.

This is the second year for the event.

Nine students will go to Harrisburg on June 15 for the 2016 Pennsylvania State 24 Challenge Tournament at the Keystone Building. About 180 students from across the state will attend.

Students in grades four through eight took part in the event at the Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29. Three students were deemed champions in their divisions: a winner for the fourth- and fifth-grade division, one in sixth-grade and one in seventh- and eighth-grade.

Cards were placed in front of the students and they had to find an answer that would make the card or cards equal 24. There were four total rounds with some students advancing from the first round to the final round. The students had a certain time period they had to say the answer, which had to be said first. They then had to say how they arrived at it. Penalties were given if they didn’t follow the rules.

“We just want to promote mathematics education and achievement in mathematics,” Vincent Hoover, supervisor of mathematics at IU 29, said.

Students in all school districts, parochial schools and Gillingham Charter School in the county were invited, Hoover said. Those in Tamaqua Area, Minersville Area, Williams Valley, Pottsville Area, Pine Grove Area, Shenandoah Valley, Tri-Valley, North Schuylkill, Saint Clair and Mahanoy Area participated. To attend the event, students had to be the winners in their grades during a competition.

Solving the problem looked easy to Matthew Zizelmann, 14, an eighth-grade student at Tamaqua Area School District.

“I have a way of taking a mental snapshot sort of from there and I review that,” he said of what his strategy is.

It paid off. He was the winner in the seventh and eighth grade division. Before winning, he was in a sudden death match with another student from Tamaqua.

“Winner takes all here,” Hoover said.

Within one minute of the cards being placed on the table, Zizelmann said the answer was 3. He was correct.

“Practice makes perfect,” he said.

He shook his competitors hands after winning.

Jasmyn Guldin, 11, a fifth-grade student in the Pottsville Area School District, was declared the winner in the fourth and fifth grade division. She said she loves math.

“It comes very naturally to me,” she said.

She agreed with Zizelmann that practice is important.

Daniellea Walker, 12, a sixth-grade Pottsville student, was the winner in the sixth-grade division. She said math excites her.

“I like how there is always an answer,” she said.

Her advice: “Just keep trying.”

Students were given medals for participating. Trophies were also given out to the top winners.

The Schuylkill County commissioners finalized another inmate housing agreement Wednesday, and it will not be the last.

The commissioners approved a contract to house Schuylkill County Prison inmates at the Columbia County Prison in Bloomsburg. It will cost $60 a day per inmate. The agreement is renewable in yearly increments.

Commissioners Chairman George F. Halcovage Jr., who also serves as prison board chairman, said the Columbia County Prison can currently house up to 20 inmates.

Meanwhile, Halcovage said the county is finalizing a similar housing agreement with Berks County for the same rate of $60 a day per inmate. He said the Berks County Prison may be able to house up to 50 inmates.

Last week, the commissioners approved an agreement to house inmates at the Centre County Correctional Facility, Bellefonte. The rate is $65 a day per inmate and 10 women are already being housed there.

On May 4, the state Department of Corrections ordered that the Schuylkill County prison can no longer take any additional prisoners sentenced between six months to five years until its average monthly inmate population is at or below its approved capacity of 277. The average inmate population for April was 282.

The DOC will review its order in three months.

Criminals serving maximum sentences of two years or more can be sent to state prison. The county prison can still house criminals awaiting trial and parole violators can be reincarcerated at other facilities.

Schuylkill County has been sending male inmates to the George W. Hill Correctional Facility, Thornton, and female inmates to the State Correctional Institution/Muncy since March.

As of last week, 22 men are being housed at the George W. Hill Correctional Facility while none remain at Muncy. The county also pays $65 a day per inmate as part of those agreements.

Halcovage said the board is still “looking at several options.” That includes a prerelease center, which was previously proposed but scrapped in 2011 when bids averaged about $4.2 million, or $1 million more than budgeted.

The county courthouse will be closed Monday for Memorial Day.

Jesse M. Lincovich is headed to state prison after admitting Wednesday in Schuylkill County Court that he possessed amphetamines and a stolen gun in July 2015 in Tamaqua.

Lincovich, 35, of Mahanoy City, pleaded guilty to receiving stolen property and possession of a controlled substance, with prosecutors withdrawing charges of prohibited possession of firearm and improper sale of a controlled substance.

President Judge William E. Baldwin accepted Lincovich’s plea and, pursuant to an agreement between prosecutors and the defendant, sentenced him to serve three to six years in a state correctional institution, pay costs, $100 to the Substance Abuse Education Fund and $50 to the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account, and submit a DNA sample to law enforcement authorities.

Tamaqua police filed the charges against Lincovich, alleging that on July 27, 2015, in the borough, he possessed amphetamine pills and a shotgun that had been stolen from Lehighton.

Lincovich, formerly of Tamaqua, said little during Wednesday’s hearing except that he understood the terms of his plea and that he was entering it knowingly and voluntarily.

Wednesday’s plea does not mark the end of Lincovich’s legal woes. He faces three other cases, all arising from alleged incidents in Tamaqua, that are pending in the county court.

Charges in those cases include possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, public drunkenness and disorderly conduct in one, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia in a second, and three counts of possession of a controlled substance and one each of possession of drug paraphernalia, retail theft and receiving stolen property in the third.

The defendant

· Name: Jesse M. Lincovich

· Age: 35

· Residence: Mahanoy City, formerly of Tamaqua

· Crimes committed: Receiving stolen property and possession of a controlled substance

· Prison sentence: Three to six years in a state correctional institution

Man faces charges

for child porn

MILLERSBURG — A 27-year-old Millersburg man is facing charges by state police at Lykens after an incident that occurred about 7:10 a.m. May 12 in that Dauphin County community.

Police said the mother of a girl reported that Mark D. Fulton left his cellphone at her house while he went to work. Due to infidelity issues, police said, the woman reported checking downloads and videos on the phone and saw a video in which Fulton set the device on video to record the girl getting undressed and re-dressed in her bedroom.

In the video, police said, the girl was in a state of nudity while she was changing her clothing.

Police said Fulton is facing charges of child pornography and invasion of privacy and will have to answer before a Dauphin County magisterial district judge.

Rush Twp. police

release incidents

HOMETOWN — Rush Township police released details in five recent incidents handled by their department.

Police said that on April 18, Gina M. McMurray, 24, of Lehighton, provided false information identifying herself as Angelea N. Schlier, 25, of Jim Thorpe, after stealing items valued at $4.13 from Wal-Mart.

Police said they learned of the false identification after Schlier came forward after learning of the charges. McMurray was charged with retail theft, resisting arrest and false identification to law enforcement, police said.

In another incident, police said Tammy J. Heiserman, 40, of Weatherly, is facing charges of false identification to law enforcement and retail theft for stealing items valued at $105.98 from Wal-Mart on May 6. Stemming from the same incident, police said, Corrine Schlier, 18, of Weatherly, will be charged with disorderly conduct after causing a disturbance in the store parking lot after her mother, Heiserman, was arrested.

Finally, police said Brianna Werley, 18, of Tamaqua, will be charged with retail theft for stealing items valued at $29.18 from Wal-Mart on May 7, and Kenneth Hengen, 26, of Port Carbon, will be charged with retail theft for stealing items valued at $6.88 on May 16.

Also on May 16, police said they charged Jennifer Marchorro, Nesquehoning, with theft by deception and receiving stolen property after she stole items from Wal-Mart valued at $19.92.

All those arrested will now have to answer to the charges before Magisterial District Judge Stephen J. Bayer, Tamaqua.

Police announce

DUI checkpoints

The North Central Regional Sobriety Checkpoint DUI Taskforce announced that Sobriety Checkpoints and Roving DUI Patrols will be conducted now through Tuesday along Routes 61, 183, 901, 209, 1006, 309, 1008, 443, 895, 125, 25, 924 and 54.

Travelers are reminded to call 911 if they suspect a drunk driver or to call, toll-free, 1-888-UNDER21, to report underage drinking.

None injured in

2-vehicle crash

GRATZ — Three people escaped injury in a two-vehicle crash that occurred about 3:45 p.m. May 3 at Route 25 and North Crossroads Road in Lykens Township, Dauphin County.

Police said the crash occurred as Robbie S. Schell Jr., 42, of Lykens, was making a left turn in a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee from North Crossroads Road onto Route 25 from a stop sign and drove into the path of a 2013 Chevrolet Equinox being driven by Weather A. McGuire, 54, of Gratz.

Both drivers and a passenger in the McGuire vehicle — Rosalinda Lising, 53, also of Gratz — escaped injury.

As a result of the crash, police said, Schell will be cited for duties at a stop sign and McGuire for DUI.

Gratz firefighters and Medic 6 assisted at the scene, police said.

Police to target

high DUI areas

JONESTOWN — State police at Jonestown will be conducting multiple DUI enforcemcent details this Memorial Day weekend.

The DUI enforcement detail is in support of Operation LION (Troop L-Impaired Operators Neutralized), which is a grant-funded DUI enforcement program for detecting and arresting impaired operators. The program is designed to reduce alcohol-related crashes and reduce the number of intoxicated drivers on the road.

The areas targeted have been identified as having higher incidents of DUI arrests and DUI-related crashes. Operation LION details consist of checkpoint and roving details and will continue throughout 2016 in Berks, Lebanon and Schuylkill counties.

Police: Men stole

cigarette cartons

LYKENS — Two Lykens residents were charged with retail theft by state police at Lykens after an incident that occurred between April 30 and May 6 at Top Star gas station, 5541 Route 209 in Lykens Township.

Police said Darby Lownsberry, 35, and Michael Grant, 39, conspired together and stole eight cartons of cigarettes from the business.

Both will now have to answer to the charges against them before Magisterial District Judge Rebecca Margerum, Elizabethville, troopers said.

Man arrested for

disorderly conduct

WICONISCO — A 29-year-old Wiconisco man was charged with disorderly conduct by state police at Lykens after an incident about 3:40 p.m. Tuesday in the 200 block of Pottsville Street in Wiconisco Township.

Police said David Dotson will have to answer to the charge before Magisterial District Judge Rebecca Margerum, Elizbethville.

Dotson was charged after he created a public annoyance by engaging in a verbal argument and making unreasonable noise, police said.

Deeds

East Union Township — Christopher A. Shenyo to Ronald R. and Patricia A. Shenyo; 29 W. Brandon St., Sheppton; $1.

McAdoo — Keystone Fire Company No. 1, McAdoo, to McAdoo Fire Company Inc.; property at Grant and Hancock streets; $1.

Joseph and Marianne Kluskiewicz to Michael Casela; 225 E. Sherman St.; $30,000.

North Manheim Township — Charles H. and Audrey A. Lantz to Dirk S. and Jennifer Ann Berger; 0.18885-acre property on Glenworth Road; $3,600.

Pine Grove Township — Federal National Mortgage Association to Timothy S. Horney and Megan E. Puchalski; 16 Geary Wolfe Road; $75,000.

West Penn Township — Joshua D. Warne, executor of the Estate of Erma E. Warne, to Joshua D. Warne; 3395 Summer Valley Road; $1.

Jake Montgomery, a seventh-grader from Pottsville Area School District, said he is already preparing for next year’s Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Montgomery, 13, of Pottville, was eliminated from the competition Wednesday in National Harbor, Maryland, after spelling the word “numismatist” wrong. The word means a person who is interested in the study or act of collecting of coins, paper money and medals.

“As soon as I said it, I realized I was going to get out,” he said Wednesday.

He mixed up his vowel sounds with another word, he said. He added an “e” after the first letter. Jake said he took his time while on stage, saying he was not nervous. It was his first and only word he spelled during the day on stage.

“I’m actually kind of fine with it,” he said about not advancing.

He is going to put forth a continued effort in an attempt to once again get to the prestigious event. He went to the 2016 Scripps National Spelling Bee after he won the 61st annual Regional Spelling Bee in March in Schuylkill County. His trip to the nation’s capital is sponsored by The Republican-Herald.

On Tuesday, the students took a written test. There were no immediate eliminations for an incorrectly spelled word. He did not receive his test results back as of Wednesday.

He was one of 285 students who were competing in event, which continues today. Go to www.spellingbee.com for more information. Jake continued to watch the other students attempt to spell the words they were given after he was eliminated from the competition in the morning.

For their part, his parents, Beth and Kevin Montgomery, are still proud of him. Beth said she put her arm around her son and told him everything will be OK.

“We prepared for this,” she said, just in case he didn’t advance.

She admits her heart sank when she found out he didn’t spell the word correctly. She looked at Karen Durkin, his coach, and saw her shake her head when he added the “e” to the word. She said Jake has been having a great time during his first visit to Washington, D.C.

“This has been the best trip,” she said, adding Jake went to a zoo earlier in the week.

He will tour the city Friday. They will come back Saturday to Pottsville.

Durkin said Jake gave it his all.

“I am very proud of Jake,” she said.

She said he is a student that always tries his best.

“Unfortunately, it was an extra letter,” she said of the misspelled word.

She said he “looked cool as a cucumber up there (on stage.)”

“He showed a lot of poise,” she said.

George Atiyeh, Mount Carmel, a landlord with properties in Schuylkill County and other communities, apologized Thursday for not responding to a citation.

“I’m not looking to make any excuses. I do apologize for not responding,” he told Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley during a summary trial.

He said he had family matters he was dealing with at the time as his father was dying of cancer. He was cited and found guilty for a quality of life violation for high weeds and other issues for the address at 1117 Mahantongo St., which is owned by Jamilie LLC.

That was about the only apology he offered before Reiley on numerous cases involving different locations in the city. Atiyeh was found guilty 11 times. He was also found not guilty six times and had eight citations dismissed and one withdrawn. In addition to 1117 Mahantongo St., the properties he was cited for are at 730 N. Third St., 413 Adams St., 517 and 918 W. Race St. and 530 E. Norwegian St. and 708 W. Norwegian St.

Atiyeh said he lives at an apartment building at 147 S. Maple St., Mount Carmel. However, almost all limited liability companies that Atiyeh is affiliated with are registered to 45 W. Fifth St., Mount Carmel. Garage Flex LLC is listed as the owner for 530 E. Norwegian St., but the LLC uses the address 45 W. Fifth St., Mount Carmel, according to the Schuylkill County Parcel Locator.

Attending the summary trial were Atiyeh’s laywer, Richard Feudale, Mount Carmel, David Petravich, city building code officer, Justin Trefsger, the city code enforcement officer, Frank Spleen, city health officer, and a previous tenant who provided testimony about the house at 708 W. Norwegian St.

Regarding 730 N. Third St., Atiyeh said he did not own it for much of the time in question. He said the owner for a large period of time was Donald Kuntz, who did not attend the trial. Atiyeh provided incorporation papers from the Pennsylvania Department of State to help prove his case. He did not acquire the property until 2015. For that property, he was found not guilty of five citations and guilty of two quality of life citations. The property has since been demolished by AMC Enterprises, Girardville, the company that was awarded the contract by the city after a house fire in October 2015.

The 413 Adams St. address was another home the city demolished in October before it was condemned. The owner of that property was House Flex LLC. Trefsger said he spoke with Kuntz about the issue. Atiyeh said he has known Kuntz for 20 years. Atiyeh questioned why he himself was not called by the city.

“The code guys always had my phone number if they had an issue,” he said.

Atiyeh said he is affiliated with several of the companies that are listed as the owner of the properties. The three citations for the 413 Adams St. address against Atiyeh were dismissed. Among the charges were removing signs posted on the building and one dealing with a vacant building collapse.

The address at 517 W. Race St. is owned by House Flex LLC. Atiyeh was found guilty of having feces in the yard and the house, having no heat in the building during a specified time, failure to maintain a fence and failure to replace a door. He was found not guilty of failure to make repairs to the exterior property including a fence. Another charge was dismissed. He said he is appealing.

At 918 W. Race St., regarding citations of a tire and garbage in the backyard, the charge was dismissed. The owner of that property is House Flex LLC.

Two charges were brought against Atiyeh for the house at 530 E. Norwegian St., which is owned by Garage Flex LLC. One was withdrawn and the other dismissed. They were regarding high weeds and grass.

Atiyeh said “we are not looking to duck anybody,” in relation to the charges.

Atiyeh was not so lucky for the property at 708 W. Norwegian St., which is owned by Baytay LLC. He was found guilty of two citations and not guilty of another one. He was found guilty of not registering a tenant and failing to fix a sewer line. He was found not guilty of another sewer line charge. He said he is appealing.

Julia Dana lived at 708 W. Norwegian St. last year with several other people for a couple months. She said she often called Atiyeh about sewer problems.

He did send people out on several occasions, he said. Petravich said there was sewage in the backyard.

“You can clearly see there are piles of water in the yard and sewage,” he said, pointing to a photo.

The property was later posted unfit due to the sewer line not being repaired.

“The posting was removed by the door and another lease agreement signed by George Atiyeh,” Petravich said.

Petravich said he had another signed lease with Atiyeh’s name on it. No one presently lives in the property.

“I would never want someone living in one of my properties with a broken sewer line,” Atiyeh said.

Atiyeh said the blockage is not on his property but did not take a camera down the line to find out, something Petravich wanted done.

“It’s an open sewer line. Somewhere it is blocked,” Petravich said.

Atiyeh said he will work on the issue and get a camera down the line.

During the end of the trial, Reiley said both sides know how to get in contact with each other and should not have any issues.

“I don’t wish to be back here again hearing matters similar to these with these companies again,” Reiley said.

People across the United States will honor the men and women who died serving in the armed forces on Memorial Day. Services and events are scheduled over the holiday weekend in communities throughout Schuylkill County.

In Frackville, American Legion Post 398 has a full day of activities Monday, highlighted by a dedication ceremony for its new monument.

The day will begin at 9 a.m. with a parade to Memorial Park that will be followed by a program to honor veterans. The monument dedication will begin at 11:30 a.m. with the honor guard and a prayer ceremony. A free buffet will be held from noon to 3 p.m. with entertainment provided by One Last Rider from 2 to 5 p.m.

Peter Kostingo, adjutant of the American Legion, said the event will be held rain or shine. If raining, the event will be moved into the hall.

Kostingo said turnout is largely dependent on the weather. He said they have had crowds of more than 100 people.

Kostingo said veterans are more widely recognized today because the public has grown to realize the importance of the sacrifices these men and women have made to their country.

“This realization, in my opinion, is very complex but I feel a large factor is that the American public felt very guilty for the way they treated our veterans returning home from the Vietnam War. Those Vietnam veterans returning home were treated with disrespect and more like the enemy than the returning heroes they really were,” Kostingo said.

He said this treatment is still played out today, specifically in the political arena. He referred to a statement made by one of this year’s presidential candidates to a current politician. The candidate said he didn’t consider the politician to be a hero because he was captured in war.

“The importance of referencing that statement is that the American public found that statement ignorant and appalling. The rational response of the American people to that statement is due to education. Over the years those people treating those returning from Vietnam have been educated to what really happened in Southeast Asia. Those veterans proudly served their country and risked their lives for our country,” Kostingo said.

He said more than 58,000 paid the ultimate sacrifice to our country, and the public remembers those veterans on holidays, such as Memorial Day, or when they see a monument or movie reminding us of them.

“Those who were directly affected, their families and their friends don’t need a holiday to remember. The absence of their loved one and the emptiness left behind is a constant reminder of the loss and sacrifice made for our country,” Kostingo said.

He also referred to the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, as another factor that awakened Americans to the value of our veterans.

“Twenty years ago, you didn’t see American flags on everyone’s front porch. But today, the feeling of patriotism is the norm and it seems that the veterans’ sacrifices are acknowledged and appreciated. It’s unfortunate that it’s war that bonds us together. We are still at war with the extremists who attacked our country and I think the American public recognizes the danger that the veteran faces every day,” Kostingo said.

In Schuylkill Haven, the veterans’ sacrifice will be honored with a service at the Schuylkill County Vietnam Memorial.

Organized by the Veterans of the Vietnam War Post 29, the service to remember the lives of those lost in Vietnam will be held from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Monday at the memorial on Route 61 near Penn State Schuylkill.

Guy Wiederhold of Post 29 said the service will be held rain or shine, with it to be moved to the First United Church of Christ if raining.

Wiederhold also said that veterans are more widely recognized, but the younger group needs to step up to keep the trend going.

“The men and women who run the services are getting older. We need to get our younger vets involved,” he said.

For Kostingo, he said he likes when someone thanks him for his service and he believes most other veterans feel the same way.

“The fact that it took a lot of years to get where we’re at is irrelevant, the important thing is that the American public does have a genuine appreciation for our veterans,” he said.

Following are the area Memorial Day events scheduled:

Ashland — Parade starts 10:45 a.m. Monday from Memorial Field, followed by program at 11 a.m., Mother’s Memorial. Veterans of Foreign Wars O’Donnell-Martin-Baldino Post and American Legion Bernard J. Dolan Post will participate.

Auburn — Parade starts 11 a.m. Monday, followed by service at Auburn Church of God, South Third Street. In case of rain, parade canceled and service held at church. Sponsored by Auburn VFW.

Branch Township — Parade starts 8 a.m. Monday, Llewellyn, followed by ceremony at 10 a.m., Friedens Lutheran Church and Phoenix Park Union Church, Branch Township.

Cressona — Parade starts 9:30 a.m. Monday, forms 9 a.m. at SAPA parking lot, followed by program at Legion Plaza. Sponsored by Cressona Lions Club and American Legion.

Donaldson — Service 9:15 a.m. Monday, Community Cemetery, followed by parade at 10:15 a.m. Sponsored by American Legion.

Frackville — Parade to Memorial Park, 9 a.m. Monday, followed by program. Celebration and monument dedication, 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Frackville American Legion, 40 S. Mahanoy St. Free buffet-style dinner. Entertainment by One Last Rider.

Gilberton — Program, noon Monday, Veterans Memorial, Maizeville.

Girardville — Parade 9 a.m. Monday, followed by program at Veterans Memorial, near Third and C streets.

Gordon — Service at 9 a.m. Monday, parade starts 10 a.m., Gordon Municipal Hall, Plane and Otto streets. Annual block party, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Gordon Fire Company.

Mahanoy City — Program, 2 p.m. Sunday, Veterans Memorial, Centre and Catawissa streets. Sponsored by Mahanoy Area United Veterans. Parade begins 11 a.m. Monday from Mahanoy Area High School parking lot.

New Philadelphia — Parade begins 8:30 a.m. Monday, post office, Valley Street. Program follows at the Square. Conducted by American Legion Post 677, Catholic War Veterans 1079 and AMVETS Post 256. In case of rain, program and awards held at Good Intent Fire Company.

Palo Alto — Service, 1 p.m. Sunday, War Memorial monument, Bacon Street.

Port Carbon — Service, 6 p.m. Sunday, Grace United Methodist Church, Pike Street. Parade starts 9 a.m. Monday, followed by service at Veterans Park Gazebo, near Janet Eich Library.

Pottsville — Parade starts 10 a.m., 12th and Market streets, service at Garfield Square follows parade.

Ringtown — Service at 10 a.m. Monday, Old White Church, Brandonville Road. Sponsored by Ringtown American Legion and Auxiliary.

Saint Clair — Ceremony, 1 p.m. Sunday, Saint Clair Area Elementary/Middle School, South Mill Street. Sponsored by Saint Clair American Legion Post 719.

Schuylkill Haven — Parade starts 10 a.m. Monday, will go down Main Street to Parkway, where a service will be held. Lions Club pancake breakfast in high school cafeteria.

Schuylkill Haven — Service, 1:30 p.m. Monday, Vietnam Memorial, Route 61. Conducted by Vietnam Veterans Post 29.

Shenandoah — Service, 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Bethel Primitive Methodist Church, Jardin Street. Parade starts 9 a.m. Monday, Jardin and Centre streets, ends at borough hall. Sponsored by Shenandoah Combined Veterans.

Tower City — Parade starts 10:30 a.m. Monday, followed by program at Public Square. Sponsored by American Legion Post 468. In case of rain, program held at post home.

Tremont — Service, 1 p.m. Sunday, Pete Wiscount Veterans Park, Main Street. Parade starts 10:45 a.m. Monday, service 11:15 a.m., St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery. In case of rain, service at Clay Street school.

Wiconisco — Service begins 8 a.m. Monday at Honor Roll. In case of rain, program at Calvary United Methodist Church, Pottsville Street.

Wiconisco — Program, Remembering Wiconisco’s Civil War Soldiers, 7 p.m. Sunday, Calvary United Methodist Cemetery, Cemetery Road. Presented by Jake Wynn. Tour begins at flag pole in lower part of cemetery at 6:45 p.m.

Williamstown — Parade starts 9:45 a.m. Monday, services follow at Veterans Memorial Park. Sponsored by Williamstown American Legion Post 239 and Williams-town VFW Post 6497.

The Berks County Coroner’s office is seeking help from the public in finding the next of kin for a recently deceased woman.

According to Deputy Coroner Melissa Sealie, Elizabeth A. Drozda, 69, was pronounced dead of natural causes Wednesday. She lived at the Woodland Plaza Apartments in Wyomissing. She was a retired teacher with the Tamaqua School District.

Anyone with information may contact the coroner at 1047 MacArthur Road, Suite 200, Reading, PA 19605, or at 610-478-3280.

Pottsville man

faces drug charges

A Pottsville man was jailed after being arrested by city police stemming from an incident about 8:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Police said officers were at 25 S. 22nd St., Pottsville, on a follow-up investigation and met Eric T. Bridy, 26, walking toward the front porch of the home from the back of the property while holding, in plain view, a glass smoking pipe commonly used to inhale methamphetamine.

When confronted, police said, Bridy threw the pipe in an attempt to conceal or destroy it, tried to flee the area and then initiated a physical confrontation with the officer on scene while trying to reach into his pockets to retrieve items.

After being physically secured, a search was conducted that revealed the man had a loaded .32-caliber handgun in his sweatshirt pocket along with 32 grams of methamphetamine, various pills and a small amount of marijuana, police said.

As a result of the incident, police said, Bridy was charged with four counts of possession of a controlled substance, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, tampering with evidence and persistent disorderly conduct.

He was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley, Pottsville, and committed to Schuylkill County Prison, unable to post $20,000 bail.

Police said the investigation is ongoing regarding the ownership and possession of the firearm.

Police: Stay clear

of phone scams

As previously reported by the Pottsville Bureau of Police, attempted scam calls involving claims of the Internal Revenue System either auditing or prosecuting residents for missing taxes are ongoing both nationally and locally.

Police Chief Richard F. Wojciechowsky said that the people making the calls are claiming to be agents with the IRS and are oftentimes using easily accessed software to create false points of origin for their calls when displayed on caller identification systems.

“We would like to reinforce to all citizens that the IRS will not call you to initiate discussions involving your personal information and/or your tax payment history,” the chief said.

He stressed that anyone receiving such a call should simply ignore any message left or hang up immediately.

Residents can find additional information at www.irs.gov under the Phishing and Tax Scams links section, Wojciechowsky said.

School drug drop

leads to arrest

MAHANOY CITY — A Mahanoy City man was arrested by borough police on drug charges after an incident about 8 p.m. May 14 at his 516 W. Centre St. home.

Police said officers went to the home of Hopeton L. Brevett, 39, after investigating a drug incident the previous day at the Mahanoy Area School Complex, where he was captured on video dropping a plastic bag containing a substance that tested positive for marijuana.

When asked if he had anything illegal inside his home, police said, the man told them he had some marijuana for spiritual purposes and agreed to show it to the officers.

Inside the home, Brevett opened a filing cabinet and turned over a gallon plastic bag containing a substance that field tested positive for marijuana as well as a smaller bag that contained the same material.

Brevett was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. He will now have to answer to the charges before Magisterial District Judge Anthony J. Kilker, Shenandoah.

Police: Man drove

without license

MAHANOY CITY — A borough man was charged by Mahanoy City police after the motorcycle he was driving was stopped about 2:05 p.m. May 17 in the 600 block of East Mahanoy Avenue.

Police said William W. Skeans Jr., 28, of 921 E. Mahanoy Ave., was charged with registration and Certificate of Title required, drivers required to be licensed, driving without insurance, driving a vehicle without an official Certificate of Inspection and altered, forged or counterfeit documents and plates.

Police said officers saw Skeans riding without a helmet and, from prior dealings, knew he did not possess a valid driver’s license.

During the stop, officers found the man without a driver’s license as well as the other violations.

The owner of the Schuylkill Trust Co. building in downtown Pottsville submitted an engineering report to the City of Pottsville during a hearing Thursday afternoon with Magisterial District Judge James K. Reiley.

Reiley granted a 30-day continuance to allow the city to review the report and discuss the matter with James J. Curran Jr., who owns the building at 101 N. Centre St.

“We would like a 30-day continuance to discuss the situation a little more with the city,” Curran’s attorney, Frank R. Cori, Orwigsburg, said.

David J. Petravich, city building code officer, said the city also needs 30 days to go over the report done by Michael A. Beach & Associates Consulting Structural Engineering, Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Petravich said city officials will meet with Curran next week to discuss the matter. “By mid-June, I think we can come up with a conclusion,” Petravich said.

Reiley said his office will contact the parties with a tentative date to continue the trial.

“It’s clear to me the defense is taking action to try and figure out the nature of this problem and how to deal with it the right way,” Reiley said.

Curran, an attorney and president of Schuylkill Land & Realty Inc., Pottsville, previously appeared before Reiley at a summary trail on March 31 and said that an engineering study was being done on the building.

He was cited Sept. 25, 2015, by the city’s code enforcement office for failing to address sections of the building’s facade that are reportedly crumbling.

That same month, the building’s only tenant aside from Curran, Wells Fargo Bank, hired Beth-Allen Ladder & Scaffold, Allentown, to build a covered walkway over the sidewalk along North Centre Street and West Market Street sides of the building to protect pedestrians from potential falling debris.

The Schuylkill Trust Co. building was built in 1924, according to “Pottsville in the Twentieth Century,” a 2003 book in the Images of America series by Leo L. Ward and Mark T. Major.

It’s a 16,500-square-foot property that sits on 0.38 acres, according to information provided by Angela D. Toomey, director of Schuylkill County Tax Claim Bureau.

Curran hasn’t paid taxes on the property in three years. He currently owes $101,343.87 in back taxes, Toomey said.

Three staffers from Wayne County summer camps died early Thursday morning in a crash that sent their minivan plunging into a drainage pond near Lake Como in Preston Township.

The Wayne County Coroner’s Office declared Ana Victoria Rojas Lopez, 23, Diego Rivera Medrano, 22, and Ariel Jersam Galaviz Alvarez, 21, all of Mexico, dead following the crash.

A man and woman in the vehicle were injured.

All five were support staff preparing Camp Shoshanim and Camp Nesher, near Lakewood, for the summer before campers and counselors arrived in June, according to a statement from the Modern Orthodox Judaism camps.

According to the camps’ statement: “Apparently, the staff had used a camp van for personal reasons without authorization. We are working with the authorities to clarify details surrounding the accident and we are focusing on contacting the families of the staff involved in this very sad event.”

State police at Honesdale are investigating. Alcohol may have been a factor in the crash, which occurred about 12:50 a.m. at Como Road and Stockport Turnpike.

It is believed the driver, who died, was driving too fast and lost control of the minivan. Edward Howell, Wayne County coroner, said in a statement that he arrived on the scene at 2:15 a.m. and pronounced the three dead, calling it “a multiple-death tragedy.”

Autopsies are scheduled for 9 a.m. today.

The two survivors are being treated at Wayne Memorial Hospital and Geisinger Community Medical Center.

The camps’ website said that campers and staff come from around the nation and world seeking to give attendees exposure to different cultures and people. The camps are operated by New Jersey YMHA-YWHA Camps.

MAR LIN — Two students at the Schuylkill Technology Center won medals last month at the annual SkillsUSA Pennsylvania competitions at the Hershey Convention Center and one will represent the state in the national competition next month.

Founded in 1965, SkillsUSA is a national organization serving teachers and high school and college students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled and service occupations, according to the organization’s website at www.skillsusa.org.

The SkillsUSA Championships are competitive events held throughout the country showcasing the best career and technical education students in the nation. Contests begin on the district level and the top winners continue on to states. The state winners then head to the national contests held June 20-24 in Louisville, Kentucky.

State and national winners are eligible for technology scholarships, according to the website.

Kevin Graff, a senior in the Shenandoah Valley School District, won a gold medal in the small engine repair event at the state competition held April 13 to 15 in Hershey. Graff, who had a bye in the district competition, will represent Pennsylvania in the national competition next month.

Graff said he has been interested in engine repair since he was about 7 years old.

“My father was a mechanic and I grew up around cars,” Graff said Thursday.

His interest in motor repair piqued when he started driving ATVs.

At the state competition, Graff said he was tasked with things like measuring and disassembling parts.

“I knew I had a good shot to win,” Graff said.

Once Graff completed the small engine repair program at STC earlier this year, he enrolled in a virtual school so he could continue his employment at Shreffler Equipment Inc., Pitman. He was employed through STC’s cooperative education program. Now he repairs everything from ATVs to tractors and lawnmowers

“I am able to fix just about everything,” Graff said. “It’s definitely nice to change things up.”

Randy Shreffler, co-owner of Shreffler Equipment, said the co-op program allows students to learn unique repairs they might not see in the classroom.

“There is nothing like learning in the real world,” he said.

Brandylynn Witmer, a junior at Blue Mountain High School, won third place in welding sculpture.

Her sculpture is that of a boot with a ball and chain.

“It represents being at war with yourself, another person or the environment around you,” Witmer said Thursday.

Witmer said she worked on the sculpture for about five months. She mostly used heat and a hammer.

Upon winning the district competition, Witmer said she was “ecstatic,” but nervous for the state competition.

“I didn’t know what to expect,” she said.

The other winning sculptures were that of a dreamcatcher and a human skull. She believed originality was why she was able to win.

Her interest in welding started while working at the garage next to her home. After seeing a help wanted sign in the window, Witmer said she started cleaning the garage and soon started working on cars.

“My boss at my previous job would always ask me if I knew how to weld, so I took up welding as a thing that interested me and it turns out I love it,” Witmer said.

She now works at Big Tom’s Garage in Schuylkill Haven. Although only a junior in high school, Witmer is already thinking about what she wants to do after graduation.

Witmer said the University of Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Ohio, has expressed interest in getting her to join their welding program.

“I didn’t want to do a trade or secondary school, but this opportunity came and I am seriously considering it,” Witmer said.

Witmer has already started planning her next sculpture, but only gave a small hint as to what it will be.

“You are your own lantern,” she said.

Friends and family of Pottsville’s famous muralist will hold the fourth annual Dave Day on Sunday.

Born May 29, 1960, in Pottsville, Dave Naydock painted murals professionally from 1983 until his death on Jan. 20, 2013. He is believed to have completed about 180 murals in his career, including about 65 in Pottsville. These include near Pottsville Area High School, the former Pottsville Hospital and Warne Clinic (now Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson Street.), and Dunkin’ Donuts.

Shortly after his death, his friends discussed a yearly event to celebrate his memory. The first Dave Day, attended by more than 200, was held on what would have been Naydock’s 53rd birthday.

The day starts with Hucklebrunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hucklebucks, with a Dave-inspired menu and drinks.

New this year will be a Scavenger Hunt. Participants can get a free scavenger hunt page at 11 a.m. at Mud & Maker. Winners will be announced at 4 p.m. at Sage Coffeehouse.

The event ends at 5 p.m. at Hucklebucks.

n Ashland: The Ashland Area Senior Citizens meet at 1 p.m. every Wednesday in the Ashland Masonic Lodge, 2500 Centre St. The organization is looking for new members 50 and older. Dues are $5 a year. Among the group’s activities are monthly birthday parties, indoor picnics, parties for most holidays, programs, dime auctions, penny bingo and others. The group also sponsors bus trips, which include transportation, show, meal and gratuities. For more information, call 570-875-1734.

n Gordon: The 13th annual combined Gordon school reunion and homecoming will be held Aug. 13 in the social hall of the Gordon Municipal Building. The reunion has an added guest list to include all who have resided and people who now live in Gordon. “If you have a family member, neighbor or friend who hasn’t been contacted, let us have their address and we will contact them,” committee members said in a press release. The group also needs addresses for former Gordon people who now live elsewhere. For more information or to make reservations, call committee members as follows: Betty Lou Bridal, 570-875-2958; Susan Hocking, 570-875-1389; Lynn Korn, 570-875-0289; Pat Monroe, 570-544-8156; Robbie Richards, 570-875-9784; Dottsie Snyder, 570-875-0873; Cathy Troutman, 570-875-0548; Helen Wolfgang, 570-590-3446; Rose Yost, 570-590-6863; or Jo-Ann Young, 570-875-2586.

n Orwigsburg: The Fortress Cancer Care Support Group meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays at Faith Church, Route 61 South. The effort aims at giving support and care for people with cancer, their families, friends and caregivers. For more information, call 570-593-8007.

n Schuylkill Haven: Diakon Community Services will have a grand opening celebration for its center at 340 Haven St. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday. There is no fee but donations will be accepted. There will be a catered lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and people will have the opportunity to see what the facility has to offer. There will also be wellness screenings, technology demonstrations, displays and other activities. To RSVP, call 570-385-5611. Diakon manages centers countywide under a contract with the Schuylkill County Office of Senior Services with funding from the state Department of Aging. Call the aforementioned phone number for more information.

n Shenandoah: Divine Mercy Roman Catholic Parish will hold a summer music camp for children ages 7 to 13 at the Annunciation Rectory, West Cherry Street, June 14 to 25 (weekend excluded). The 10-day program, according to a bulletin announcement, will end with a mini-concert by the participants at 7 p.m. June 25 at Divine Mercy Church, Cherry and Chestnut streets. During the camp, children will be taught the vocal techniques of breathing, dynamics and pitch matching. The fee is $200 per child. For more information or registration, call Father Johnson, parochial vicar, at 570-599-5265 or the parish office at 570-462-1968.

n Tremont: Memorial Day services will be held in Tremont and Donaldson, according to a release from Tom Cleary of the Tremont American Legion post. At 1 p.m. Sunday, there will be a service at Pete Wiscount Veterans Park, Main Street, Tremont. The service will be held in the Clay Street school in the event of inclement weather. At 9:15 a.m. Monday, there will be a service at the community cemetery in Donaldson followed by a parade at 10:15 a.m. Then at 10:45 a.m., there will be a parade in Tremont followed by an 11:15 a.m. service at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery. In the event of inclement weather, the service will be held at 10 a.m. in the Clay Street school.

n Wiconisco: Calvary United Methodist Church will have a cemetery tour titled “Remembering Wiconisco’s Civil War Soldiers” from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday at the church cemetery, Cemetery Road. Local historian Jake Wynn will be on hand and there will be a memorial program commemorating the lies of the region’s Civil War veterans. People will meet at the flagpole in the lower part of the cemetery. All are welcome. For more information, call 717-395-8707.

TOWER CITY — Diane M. Niederriter, the current executive director of Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 and a former Williams Valley administrator, was named the new Williams Valley superintendent Thursday.

Also at the meeting, the school board approved raises for most employees and reached a contract agreement with its teachers’ union.

The school board, by a 7-1 vote, approved Niederriter for a three-year contract at an annual salary of $110,000 from April 1, 2017, to March 31, 2020.

Jolene Smith, the district’s current assistant to the superintendent, was named acting superintendent at a rate of $85,000 pro-rated, beginning July 1, 2016, to March 31, 2017. Smith was at the meeting, but Niederriter was not.

The school board was seeking a new superintendent after it failed to extend the current contract of Superintendent Donald Burkhardt for three more years. His contract expires June 30, 2016.

Board Vice President John Mika cast the lone dissenting vote for Niederriter and Smith. Director Tedd Johns was absent.

“It’s a big mistake. We’re going down the wrong road,” Mika said following the meeting.

Niederriter, Harrisburg, was hired as dean of students in the district in February 1996. She became Williams Valley’s secondary principal in August 1996. Niederriter assumed the superintendent post July 1, 2004, where she served until she left the district in July 2008.

In other business, the board, by a 7-1 vote, approved the collective bargaining agreement between the board and the Williams Valley Education Association for a three-year pact, from July 1, 2016, to June 30, 2019. The current contract was set to expire in June 2016. Members of the Williams Valley Educators Association will receive $1,750 salary increases in each year of the pact, and all other benefits remain stable, Daniel Stroup, board president, said. There are 106 teachers in the district, with the majority of them in the union. The agreement will cost the district $177,000 more each year, or $531,000 over the term of the three-year contract, according to Anthony Aukstakalnis, business manager. Director Tracey L. Minnich cast the only dissenting vote. A WVEA representative, Seth Shuey, attended the board meeting, shook hands and thanked the board for its efforts. Director Christopher Stroup noted that the board and the union were able to reach the agreement without seeking legal counsel.

“It was non-contentious,” he said.

The board also approved the following:

• A 50-cent raise for classified employees for the 2016-17 school year, with Director Christopher Stroup abstaining.

• A $1,750 increase for district administrators for the 2016-17 school year, with Minnich voting no. The district refused to provide specific salaries for administrators. The Republican-Herald will file a Right To Know Request with Aukstakalnis, the Right To Know officer, for that information.

• A $1,750 increase for other contracted employees for the 2016-17 school year. Director David Ferraro abstained and Minnich voted no.

• Hiring Jessica Savitsky, Frackville, as the special education supervisor, effective July 1, 2016.

Heard an end-of-season report from Adam Kravatz, Tower City, head archery coach. Kravatz said student archer Hunter Bordner finished 236th in the nation, and there were 65 students on the archery team this year. His future goals are to get more local league play, possibly host a home tournament with other schools participating and get more volunteer coaches. Ferraro thanked Kravatz for the team’s archery banquet.

Athletic Director Randy Russelavage said the archery program had a good following. Russelavage also commended the success of this year’s girls’ softball team, which claimed the division title, and won the league championship. Coach Lee Reiser marked his 400th win in 23 seasons, Russelavage said, which was a milestone that the board and Burkhardt offered their congratulations. The Lady Vikes were to face Minersville on Tuesday at Patton Field for the District 11 Class A final.

Russelavage also announced that coaching courses will be offered at Williams Valley on June 20 to 21.

Burkhardt read a letter from John Paul, commending the district’s students and Director Edward Wilson for their recent choral performance at a local church in Williamstown.

The board also presented a card to Cindy Shutt, who was retiring from the district office at the end of the current school year, and thanked her for her many years of service.