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NON

- PRECEDENTIAL DECISION

- SEE SUPERIOR COURT I.O.P. 65.37

D.A.T.

v.

R.M.T.

Appellant :

:

:

:

:

:

:

:

: IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF

PENNSYLVANIA

No. 1383 MDA 2020

Appeal from the Order Entered September 30, 2020

In the Court of Common Pleas of Schuylkill County Civil Division at

No(s): S

- 841

- 2020

BEFORE: OLSON, J., STABILE, J., and MUSMANNO, J.

MEMORANDUM BY MUSMANNO, J. : FILED MAY 04, 2021

R.M.T. (“Father”) appeals from the custody O rder regarding his

daughter, H.T. (“Child”) (born in December 2014), with D.A.T. (“Mother”),

pursuant to the Child Custody Act (“the Act”)

, 1 

### 23 Pa.C.S. A. § 5328(a), that

award ed shared legal custody to Father and Mother, primary physical custody

to Mother, and partial physical custody to Father

, in accordance with a

schedule. We affirm.

In its Opinion, the trial court set forth the relevant factual history and

summarized the testimony presented during the custody hearing. See Trial

_________________ __________ ______ ____ _______

1 

### See 23 Pa.C.S.A. §§ 5321

- 5340.

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- 2

-

Court Opinion, 9/30/20, at 1

- 24. We adopt the trial court’s recitation as

though fully restated herein. S ee id. 2



### On September 30, 2020, the trial court entered a custody O rder

award ing shared legal custody to Father and Mother, primary physical custody

to Mother, and partial physical custody to F ather, in accordance with a

schedule. On October 28, 2020 , Fat her t imely filed a N otice of A ppeal, along

with a C oncise S tatement of errors complained of on appeal, pursuant to

Pa.R.A.P. 1925(a)(2)(i) and (b).

In h is brief on appeal, Fa ther raises the following issues:

1. Did the [t] rial [c] ourt err and abuse its discretion when it

granted primary physical custody of [Child] to Mother [,] i n light of

the analysis of the custody factors?

2. Did the [t] rial [c] ourt err and abuse its discretion in finding that

the fourth custody factor [,] addressing the need for stability and

continuity in the child ’ s education, family life and community life [,

23 Pa.C.S. A. § 5328(a)(4),] was a neutral factor and did not weigh

in favor of either parent?

3. Did the [t] rial [c] ourt err and abuse its discretion in fi nding that

the custody factor of sibling relationships [

, 23 Pa.C.S. A.

§ 5328(a)(6),] weighed in favor of Mother?

4. Did the [t] rial [c] ourt err and abuse its discretion in finding that

custody factor of whether a parent has attempted to turn the child

against the other parent [

, 23 Pa.C.S. A. § 5328(a)(8),] weighs in

favor of Mother?

5. Did the [t] rial [c] ourt err and abuse its discretion in finding that

the factor regarding each parent ’ s availability to care for the child

_________________ __________ ______ ____ _______

2 

### We caution the trial court against the use of inflammatory language in

reference to the COVID

- 19 pandemic.

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- 3

-

or ability to make appropriate child

- care arrangements [

, 23

Pa.C.S. A. § 5328(a)(12),] weighs in favor of Mother?

6. Did the [t] rial [c] ourt err and abuse its discretion in finding that

the level of conflict between the parties [, 23 Pa.C.S. A.

§ 5328(a)(1 3 ),] weighed in favor of Mother?

Fa ther’s Brief at 9

- 10.

We will address Father’s claim s , each of which challenges the trial

court’s determination of the custody factors set forth at section 5328(a),

together. Regarding sub section 5328(a)(4), Father argues that the trial court

improper ly concluded that the need for stability in Child’s education, family

life and community life is a neutral factor. Id. at 48. According to Father, he

can provide greater stability because he owns his home and has a local

extended family. Id. Father als o argues that Child has community support

through Father’s church. Id. at 49.

Regarding subsection 5328(a)(6), Father contends that the trial court

abused its discretion in concluding that Child’s sibling relationships weigh in

favor of Mother. Id. at 50. Father argues that Child has bonded with her

step

- siblings, and “[t]here is no evidence to suggest that ... [C]hild sees her

half

- brother with Mother any differently than she sees her step

- siblings with

Father.” Id. at 51

- 52.

As to subsection 5328 (a)(8) , the attempts of a parent to turn the child

against the other parent , Father claims that the trial court abused its discretion

by determining that this factor weights in favor of Mother. Id. at 52. Father

acknowledges making “negative comments” to ward Mother’s fiancé, but

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- 4

-

argues that both men were at fault. Id. at 52

- 54; see also id. at 54 (stating

that “[t]here is no doubt that all parties have engaged in inappropriate

behavior.”).

Father claims that the trial court erred in finding that Mother is more

available to care for Child or make appropriate child

- care arrangements,

pursuant to subsection 5328(a)(12). Id. at 54. According to Father, “[t]he

evidence presented at the hearing shows exactly the opposite.” Id. at 54

- 55.

Father argues that his work schedule is more flexible than Mother’s schedule,

and he was able to change his work schedule in order to be available for Child

after school hours. Id. at 56. Father claims that Mother’s fiancé is strict and

sometimes upsets Child. Id. at 57

- 6 0. Further, Father asserts that it is

“imperative to note that Mother failed to testify in any way about ... [C]hild’s

muscular dystrophy. ... Mother’s failure to even mention this condition during

her testimony called into question whether she is able to mak e appropriate

child

- care arrangements.” Id. at 60

- 61.

Finally, regarding subsection 5328(a)(13), Father argues that the trial

court erred in finding that the level of conflict between the parties weighs in

favor of Mother. Id. at 65. Father claims that “Mother has frequently refused

to answer or communicate with Father regarding ... [C]hild.” Id. at 65.

According to Father, Mother fails to communicate with him about Child’s

medical concerns. Id. at 65

- 66. Further, Father contends that the conflict

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-

bet ween the parties worsened after he and Mother’s fiancé had an argument.

Id. at 68

- 69. 3



### In custody cases under the Act, our standard of review is as follows:

In reviewing a custody order, our scope is of the broadest type

and our standard is abuse of discretion. We must accept findings

of the trial court that are supported by competent evidence of

record, as our role does not include making independent factual

determinations. In addition, with regard to issues of credibility

and weight of the evidence, we must defer to the presiding trial

judge who viewed and assessed the witnesses first

- hand.

However, we are not bound by the trial court’s deductions or

infer ences from its factual findings. Ultimately, the test is whether

the trial court’s conclusions are unreasonable as shown by the

evidence of record. We may reject the conclusions of the trial

court only if they involve an error of law, or are unreasonable in

light of the sustainable findings of the trial court.

C.R.F. v. S.E.F. , 45 A.3d 441, 443 (Pa. Super. 2012) (citation omitted) ; see

also Bulgarelli v. Bulgarelli , 934 A.2d 107, 111 (Pa. Super. 2007) (stating

that “[a]n abuse of discretion is not merely an error of judgment; if, in

reaching a conclusion, the court overrides or misapplies the law, or the

judgment exercised is shown by the record to be either manifestly

unreasonable or the product of partiality, prejudice, bias or ill will, discretion

has been abused.” (quotation omitted) )

.

We have stated that

[t]he discretion that a trial court employs in custody matters

should be accorded the utmost respect, given the special nature

of the proceeding and the lasting impact the result will have on

the liv es of the parties concerned. Indeed, the knowledge gained

_________________ __________ ______ ____ _______

3 

### Father does not challenge the trial court’s findings as to the remaining

custody factors.

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-

by a trial court in observing witnesses in a custody proceeding

cannot adequately be imparted to an appellate court by a printed

record.

Ketterer v. Seifert , 902 A.2d 533, 540 (Pa. Super. 2006) ( quoting Jackson

v. Beck , 858 A.2d 1250, 1254 (Pa. Super. 2004)).

With any custody case decided under the Act, the paramount concern is

the best interests of the child. See 23 Pa.C.S. A. §§ 5328, 5338. Section

5323 of the Act provides for the following ty pes of awards:

(a) Types of award.

-- After considering the factors set forth in

section 5328 (relating to factors to consider when awarding

custody), the court may award any of the following types of

custody if it in the best interest of the child:

(1) Sha red physical custody.

(2) Primary physical custody.

(3) Partial physical custody.

(4) Sole physical custody.

(5) Supervised physical custody.

(6) Shared legal custody.

(7) Sole legal custody.

23 Pa.C.S

. A . § 5323.

Section 5338 of the Act provides that, upon petition, a trial court may

modify a custody order if it serves the best interests of the child. 23 Pa.C.S. A.

§ 5338

. Section 5328(a) sets forth the best interest factors that the trial court

must consider. Se e E.D. v. M.P. , 33 A.3d 73, 80

- 81, n.2 (Pa. Super. 2011).

Trial courts are required to consider “ [ a ] ll of the factors listed in section

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-

5328(a)

... when entering a custody order.” J.R.M. v. J.E.A.

, 33 A.3d 647,

652 (Pa. Super. 2011) (emphasis in original).

Section 5328(a) of the Act provides as follows :

§ 5328. Factors to consider when awarding custody

(a) Factors.

-- In ordering any form of custody, the court shall

determine the best interest of the child by considering all relevant

factors, giving weighted consideration to those factors which

affect the safety of the child, including the following:

(1) Which party is more likely to encourage and permit

frequent and continuing contact between the child and

another party.

(2) The present and past ab use committed by a party or

member of the party’s household, whether there is a

continued risk of harm to the child or an abused party and

which party can better provide adequate physical

safeguards and supervision of the child.

(2.1) The information set forth in section 5329.1(a)(1) and

(2) (relating to consideration of child abuse and involvement

with protective services).

(3) The parental duties performed by each party on behalf

of the child.

(4) The need for stability and continuity in the child’s

education, family life and community life.

(5) The availability of extended family.

(6) The child’s sibling relationships.

(7) The well

- reasoned preference of the child, based on the

child’s maturity and judgment.

(8) The attempts of a parent to turn the c hild against the

other parent, except in cases of domestic violence where

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- 8

- reasonable safety measures are necessary to protect the

child from harm.

(9) Which party is more likely to maintain a loving, stable,

consistent and nurturing relationship with the c hild

adequate for the child’s emotional needs.

(10) Which party is more likely to attend to the daily

physical, emotional, developmental, educational and special

needs of the child.

(11) The proximity of the residences of the parties.

(12) Each party’s ava ilability to care for the child or ability

to make appropriate child

- care arrangements.

(13) The level of conflict between the parties and the

willingness and ability of the parties to cooperate with one

another. A party’s effort to protect a child from a buse by

another party is not evidence of unwillingness or inability to

cooperate with that party.

(14) The history of drug or alcohol abuse of a party or

member of a party’s household.

(15) The mental and physical condition of a party or

member of a party’ s household.

(16) Any other relevant factor.

23 Pa.C.S. A. § 5328 (a)

.

Further, we have explained as follows:

Section 5323(d) provides that a trial court “shall delineate

the reasons for its decision on the record in open court or in a

written opinion or order.” 23 Pa.C.S.A. § 5323(d) . Additionally,

section 5323(d) requires the trial court to set forth its mandatory

assessment of the sixteen Section 5328(a) custody factors prior

to the deadline by which a litigant must file a notice of appeal.

...

In expressing the reasons for its decision, there is no

required amoun t of detail for the trial court’s explanation; all that

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-

is required is that the enumerated factors are considered and that

the custody decision is based on those considerations

. A court’s

explanation of reasons for its decision, which adequately

addresses the relevant factors, complies with Section 5323(d)

.

A.V. v. S.T. , 87 A.3d 818, 823 (Pa. Super. 2014) (brackets and some citations

omitted)

.

In its Opinion, the trial court addressed each of the relevant custody

factors

, 4 

### and we adopt its reasoning for the purpose of this appeal. See Trial

Court Opinion, 9/30/21, at 24

- 32. It is apparent that Father ’s challenge is

strictly to the weight that the court assigned to certain factual testimony of

the parties , and the trial court’s credibility determination s

. Considering all of

Father’s issues together, Father simply would have preferred for the trial court

to have placed more weight on testimony favoring him. As we explained

above, with regard to issues of credibility and weight of the evidence, we must

d efer to the presiding trial judge who viewed and assessed the witnesses first

hand. C.R.F. , 45 A.3d at 443 ; see also M.J.M. v. M.L.G. , 63 A.3d 331, 339

(Pa. Super. 2013) (stating that “[i] t is within the trial court’s purview as the

_________________ __________ ______ ____ _______

4 

### We note that, while the trial court did not specifically address subsection

5328(a)(2.1), there is nothing in the certified record that would suggest

information r elating to consideration of child abuse and involvement with

protective services, which would be considered under subsection

5328(a)(2.1). Further, the trial court did not discuss any additional relevant

factors under subsection 5328(a)(16).

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-

finder of fact to determine which factors are most salient and critical in each

particular case

. ”)

. 5



### A fter a c areful r eview of the record, we conclude that , in making its

determinations on the best interest factors, t he trial court properly considered

all of the credible testimony from the witnesses, and determined the weight

to assign to each of these factors

. The trial court’s conclusions are not

unreasonable, and are supported by the record. We discern no error of law

or abuse of the trial court’s discretion. Thus, we will not disturb the trial

court’s O rder.

Order affirmed.

Judge Stabile joins the memorandum.

Judge Olson concurs in the result.

Judgment Entered.

Joseph D. Seletyn, Esq.

Prothonotary

Date: 05/04/2021

_________________ __________ ______ ____ _______

5 

### Mor eover, to the extent that Father asserts that the trial court failed to

consider that he had step

- children who should have been considered as Child’s

siblings, the trial court O pinion makes clear that the court was aware of the

recent addition of step

- siblings t o Child’s life when Father married L.S

. in

August 2020, and chose not to afford them the same weight as Child’s sibling

relationship with her half

- sibling, H.K., in this instance.**Received**

### 11/17/2020**8:57:26**

### F•lai#••d►**`?o•(rRd•i•d••sit Page** **7 of** **39 bchuylkii::o=ty** **Government Filed** **11/17/2020 8:57:00** **AM Superior** **Court Middle** **District 1383** **MiOA 2020** 

### COURT**OF COMMON** **PLEAS OF** **SCHUYLKILL COUNTY** **CIVIL ACTION** **— LAW** **D, A.** **T No.** **S-841-20 Plaintiff** **VS. R** **M.T Defendant** **CUSTODY Russell** **Farbiarz, Esquire** **— for** **Plaintiff Rebecca** **Smith ,** **Esquire —** **for Defendant** **IOPNION OF** **COURT DOLBIN,** **J. This** **matter involves** **a Petition** **to List** **the Matter** **for Trial** **and for** **Special Relief** **by Mother** **, D** **A .T** **("Mother ")** **regarding the** **parties' minor** **child, DOB** **12 /** **14 (** **or "child** **"). Mother** **originally filed** **for custody** **in 2019** **in Berks** **County, Pennsylvania** **and that** **Court entered** **an Order** **dated May** **7, 2019** **granting shared** **legal custody** **to Mother** **and Father,** **R. :11** **("Father ')** **and also** **shared physical** **custody on** **a monthly** **basis between** **Father ,** **who resides** **in Michigan** **, and** **Mother .** **Mother subsequently** **filed a** **petition to** **List the** **Matter for** **Trial and** **for Special** **Relief; however** **, because** **Mother had** **moved to** **Schuylkill County** **, Berks** **Count y** **no longer** **had jurisdiction** **and the** **matter was** **transferred to** **Schuylkill County** **in June** **of 2020** **. On** **July 15,** **2020 ,** **Mother s** **counsel fled** **a Petition** **to List** **the Matter** **for Trial** **and for** **Special Page** **a of** **34 Schuylki** **l Ceunty** **Govexr=ent**

### Relief**asking for** **various remedies.** **The parties** **attended a** **conference at** **which the** **paramount issue** **then became** **where the** **child would** **attend school.** **We held** **a custody** **trial on** **August 19,** **2020 .** **Mother testified** **first. was** **born in** **Grand Rapids** **, Michigan** **. Mother** **left Michigan** **in 2017** **to relocate** **to Pennsylvania** **for employment** **purposes. Father** **knew that** **she was** 

### planning**to move** **. There** **was an** **incident where** **Father became** **argumentative and** **physical with** **Mother because** **he did** **not want** **her to** **mote .** **He threatened** **to kill** **her and** **parked his** **vehicle behind** **hers so** **she could** **not leave,** **and took** **her keys** **away. Mother** **was unable** **to contact** **the police** **right away** **and by** **the time** **she did,** **there was** **nothing she** **could do** **. During** **the incident** **, Father** **punched her** **in her** **stomach and** **then blockaded** **the home.** **Father made** **numerous comments** **to Mother** **that he** **would hurt** **her and** **hurt people** **at work** **. Mother** **was not** **concerned for** **herself, but** **was concerned** **as to** **how Ch,\dwould** **be raised** **in that** **environment. Mother** **is concerned** **about Father** **s religious** **beliefs and** **personality .** **Father likes** **thinner women** **and Mother** **believes that** **,Chad does** **not eat** **because w\xd** **is concerned** **about getting** **fat. ZhN\J** **holds her** **stomach when** **she returns** **from Father's** **care. U•ac1** **is only** **five years** **old. Mother** **came to** **Pennsylvania as** **the final** **straw .** **Mother is** **trained as** **a hystotechnologist** **. Her** **field is** **in a** **very specific** **area and** **there was** **a very** **small pool** **of jobs** **in that** **field in** **Michigan. Mother** **asked Father** **to move** **but Father** **objected .** **Mother could** **not get** **a job** **in Michigan.** **Mother got** **a job** **in Pennsylvania** **and moved** **in July** **of 2017** **. Mother** **was worried** **that her** **Page 9** **0: 39** **Sahuylk_:I Cc=ty** **Goeez-=r.:**

### certifications**would expire** **and that** **would hurt** **her chances** **of gaining** **employment. Mother** **moved to** **Oley. in** **Berks County.** **Mother rented** **an**

### apartment**outside of** **Reading, in** **the country.** **was 2** **'/2**

### years**old at** **the time** **they moved.** **Mother did** **not know** **anyone in** **the area.** **Mother did** **not believe** **Father was** **happy about** **this move,** **but he** **kissed both** **of then** **rood-bye when** **they left.** **Mother now** **lives in** **Pottsville, Pennsylvania.** **The home** **is a** **brick bi-level** **with three** **doors, three** **bedrooms and** **a fenced** **yard. There** **is a** **neighborhood and** **the neighbors** **are a** **tightknit group** **and support** **each other.** **Ch V** **has her** **own bedroom.** **Mother introduced** **pictures of** **the home.** **Mother has** **lived there** **for one** **year. She** **moved from** **Olcy because** **she met** **her fiance,** **D K** **o.x,**

### asked**her to** **move in** **with him.** **Mother works** **at the** **Geisinger Medical** **Center in** **Danville, Pennsylvania** **and she** **is now** **closer to** **work. "0Ne_** 

### and**Mother have** **a son,** **Hi ,** **who is** **one year** **old. They** **are planning** **to get** **married on** **October I** **will be** **the flower** **girl. Mother** **would like** **to have** **custody of** **eh.\c1 for** **the wedding.** **They met** **2 %z** **to 3** **years ago** **and started** **dating 2** **% years** **ago. They** **separated for** **a time** **because they** **were unsure** **about their** **relationship and** **wanted to** **be with** **other people,** **but got** **back together.** **While they** **were separated,** **Father asked** **to come** **to one** **of LW,\6** **'s doctors'** **appointments. While** **they were** **there, X.** **is**

### brother**arrived at** **the same** **office. It** **was a** **strange coincidence** **and mother** **joked with** **Father that** **b.,. was** **following her.** **b.K FeTq** **:0 of** **3s Schuylkill** **ounty Gc** **vesnaetit**

### has**never physically** **or verbally** **abused Mother.** **They have** **agreed not** **to use** **physical punishment** **Zvi .h** **CIKt6 :** **rather, she** **has timeouts,** **she is** **sent to** **her room,** **or she** **has to** **"run a** **lap." p.K.** **.**

### and**Mother run** **a strict** **home. has** **chores, such** **as washing** **the dishes** **or making** **her bed** **every morning.** **If Mother** **is not** **home, and** **Cn ►d** **is acting** **up, b,Y,.** **contacts Mothcr.** **bC \%d** 

### complains**all of** **the time** **about having** **to do** **chores because** **she does** **not have** **any chores** **at Father's** **home. Hi** **was born** **on July** **20.2019. adores** **him. When** **W\\\**

### is**at Father's** **and it** **is time** **for W,** **d to** **Face Time** **with Mother,** **QA, 6** **only wants** **to speak** **to "Bubba."** **Mother has** **no relatives** **in Pennsylvania.** **She has** **a arother** **in Michigan** **but does** **not have** **his phone** **number. They** **talk via** **Face Book.** **y ,** **► has** **two sets** **of parents.** **Mother is** **close to** **b,y,.**

### 's**mother and** **calls her** **every day** **on the** **way to** **work, particularly** **with the** **wedding coming** **up. She** **is ten** **minutes away.** **'o.v.. is** **siblings are** **supportive. Mother** **is good** **friends with** **b_y-**

### I's**Sister. They** **all help** **with*****v,&d**

### and**'7,k, 's** **mother is** **keeping :•;\d** **for the** **honeymoon. -.N** 

### .v**, .'s** **father also** **helps watch** **h, d** **' They** **all attended** **R :'s** **birthday party.** **Both of** **q K..'s** 

### siblings**have children** **and they** **are all** **close in** **age. They** **are attending** **kindergarten together.** **Before •** **Cov•p-1c•**

### the**cousins saw** **each other** **every other** **weekend. Mother** **works second** **shift from** **3:OOPM to** **l 1:30PM.** **She is** **with grad** **to do** **school work.** **She leaves** **for work** **around t** **:30PM and** **returns home** **around Days** **1: of** **19 sehuylkUl** **aunty Gover==n.-** **12:30AN4 the** **next morning.** **Hf wakes** **up around** **6:3OA.M. works** **for the** **Reading, Blue** **Mountain and** **Northern Railroad,** **t% picall%** **7:OOAM to** **5:00pk4. every** **day except** **Wednesday and** **Sunday. They** **have a** **babysittcr, M** **Gf ,** **four days** **each week.** **They found** **her through** **care.com. Mother** **has looked** **into switching** **to a** **day shift.** **Mother is** **trying to** **figure out** **hoH• :o** **work and** **also how** **to educate** **Cy*3,ifpart****other school** **education is** **online. Mother** **is more** **than willing** **to help** **C,Wod with** **school. On** **a typical** **work day** **Mother wakes** **the children,** **they have** **breakfast together,** **they go** **for a** **walk, then** **have lesson** **time. takes** **a nap,** **and S,%** **j•o has** **quiet time,** **and they** **watch a** **movie. They** **then have** **lunch, and** **Mother gets** **ready for** **work. When** **the babysitter** **arrives, she** **kisses the** **children and** **leaves for** **work. 'n** **,. is** **home about** **3-4 )** **ours later.** **D,y, gets** **dinner for** **the children,** **and gets** **them ready** **for bed.** **Bedtime is** **at 8:00pM.** **Saturdays are** **family days.** **Sundays, '** **b.Y, ,** **„corks. Mother** **has the** **children all** **day by** **herself until** **dinner. Both** **parents taketw,6** **I to** **the dentist** **and doctor** **in their** **respective states.** **Recently, z,W,\d** **has developed** **a hearing** **issue. Father** **was concerned** **that CA,kd** **failed a** **hearing test.** **Mother took** **for a** **test and** **she passed.** **They are** **taking UY\,kd** **co a** **specialist. Mother** **usually texts** **Father about** **00 3.** **Father does** **not communicate** **about Ch,N6** **'s doctor** **visits in** **Michigan and** **she does** **not know** **the names** **of the** **doctors there** **because Father** **has not** **told her.** **Mother found** **out that** 

### Wod**was in** **the emergency** **room at** **a hospital** **in :Michigan** **because ;he** **hospital ?aga** **12 of** **39 Schuylkill.** **County Government** 

### emailed**her. When** **she calved** **father, he** **wanted .o** **know how** **Mother found** **out. Mother** **and Father** **have had** **a long** **battle about** **vaccinations for** **\ta**

### Father's**religion does** **not agree** **with vaccinations.** **Father has** **had strong** **words with** **a doctor** **about it,** **creating a** **tense atmosphere,** **after which** **the doctor** **left the** **room. Now** **that they** **are in** **court, Father** **has agreed** **to have** **vh ,,** **6 vaccinated.** 

### When**Mother and** **LhN\6 moved** **to Pennsylvania,** **Father carne** **to visit** **for a** **half day** **on Christmas** **Eve and** **left on** **Christmas Day.** **Mother had** **been in** **Pennsylvania for** **six months** **by that** **time, and** **that was** **the first** **that Father** **requested to** **see zx** **,\ A.** **In February** **of 2018,** **Zr \6** **went to** **Michigan for** **a two** **week visit.** **Mother filed** **for divorce** **and custody** **in Berks** **County, In** **2018 they** **came to** **an agreement** **on custody,** **with Father** **having ever;** **other weekend,** **which he** **exercised. 1n** **2019, they** **agreed to** **share legal** **and physical** **custody, on** **a monthly** **rotation, which** **was entered** **as a** **temporary order** **of court.** **The custody** **schedule has** **worked well** **for the** **parents but** **not for** **She has** **trouble adjusting** **between the** **two different** **routines. During** **Mother's time,GW4i** **attends preschool** **in Pottsville.** **It is** **difficult for** **to adjust** **to Mother's** **routine when** **she returns** **from Father's.** **It takes** **Wti) .** **about a** **week to** **get back** **into it.** **When the** **Covid virus** **shutdown started,** **Mother asked** **Father to** **keep C'+** **\d there** **for her** **in Michigan** **for her** **health and** **safety. Then,** **when they** **resumed custody** **exchanges, Father** **would not** **agree to** **give Mother** **his month,** **so Father** **?agq 13** **of 19** **Sehuylksll county** **Government kept** **Zt,-kG for** **three months** **in a** **row. Father** **has only** **offered :Mother** **more time** **if Mother** **does not** **file court** **papers. Mother** **final ly** **got •y** **,0 -** **back in** **early June.** **Sometimes Father** **has friends** **who reside** **in Pennsylvania** **drop**

### ZhA**NNo ff.** **Mother does** **not know** **these people** **and does** **not k** **,o«- haw** **long they** **have had** **Other than** **indicating they** **were friends** **through church,** **they would** **not answer** **Mother's questions.** **At one** **exchange, p,k.** **, accompanied** **Mother and** **there was** **an incident** **with Father.** **Both H** **and ZW\,6** **were present.** **7.•,,Y. -** **has a** **concealed carry** **permit and** **wore his** **weapon to** **the exchange.** **Father asked** **• .** **the was** **trying to** **intimidate Father.** **Father asked** **' T•,.K.** **if he** **wanted to** **fight. K-y&** **_ got** 

### r,:Mg1**out of** **the car,** **while Father** **went and** **retrieved a** **gun from** **Father's car.** **Father said** **he was** **"done" and** **pointed the** **gun at** **s head.** **n,•— i** **never removed** **the gun** **but walked** **to the** **car and** **put his** **gun in** **the glove** **box.**

### r•,**O witnessed** **this. IC>.Y.,.** **walked toward** **Father, who** **was now** **filming p** **•, ,** **. The** **police were** **called. Father** **regularly says** **horrible things** **about Mother,** **bY,, and** **Father then** **waits for** **a negative** **reaction from** **7. and** **films it** **using his** **phone. When** **zxti,\d is** **with Father,** **she is** **taken between** **three different** **homes; Father's** **home, Father's** **new wife's** **home, and** **the paternal** **grandmother's home.** **Cn,\d stays** **with her** **paternal grandmother** **during the** **week. Mother** **does not** **want th;••** **staying there** **because one** **of Father's** **siblings lives** **there and** **uses drugs** **and Page** **14 of** **39 Schuylkill** **Cowty wve** **=zrt has** **a poor** **attitude .** **Twice ,** **has returned** **to Mother** **xvith head** **lice .** **c_ Oo** **is disheveled** **and dirty** **, and** **her hair** **is not** **brushed. Father** **recently remarried** **. Father** **had one** **other prior** **fianed. Mother** **had to** **ask Father** **about these** **womet: in** **.cr \6** **Is life** **, who** **bonded with.** **Mother found** **out Father** **was engaged** **from a** **FaeeDook post** **in March** **2020. Father's** **mother has** **not met** **her. Mother** **would like** **JCh TN** **to live** **with her** **during the** **schoo: year** **and with** **Father for** **the summer** **, except** **for one** **two week** **period .** **Father should** **also have** **week-long school** **vacationsrbreaks. On** **cross-examination, Mother** **testified that** **she moved** **to Oley** **in July** **of 2017,** **lived there** **for five** **months, moved** **to Douglasville,** **lived therc** **for seven** **months ,** **and then** **moved to** **Pottsville. She** **has lied** **in Pottsville** **for three** **years. The** **home is** **owned by** **: D,Y-** **brother Cl** **, Ki** **. C.k.lives** **with his** **girlfriend .** **She and** **li, X** **. pay** **the mortgage** **and when** **they marry,** **the house** **will be** **placed in** **both of** **their names** **. They** **do not** **have a** **written agreement** **regarding this.** **Father did** **not allow** **CW Nd** **to come** **to Mother's** **for H** **s first** **birthday party** **. Father** **has asked** **about school** **options for** **Qi 3** **including homeschooling,** **so they** **could continue** **monthly exchanges.** **Mother does** **not agree** **. Uti,\a** **needs a** **stable environment** **and not** **to keep** **going back** **and forth** **every months.** **Mother and** **p,X. i** **were separated** **for two** **weeks, during** **which time** **Father attended** **one of** **Cr, ms's** **doctor appointments.** **After; p,** **i_ 's** **brother r;j•** **Fags 15** **of 39** **Sahrylk ll,** **County Covervaart** **showed up** **at the** **same doctor's** **office. Mother** **told Father** **that O** **k. was** **controlling." Mother** **told Father** **she thought** **. was** **having someone** **follow her.** **?Mother told** **Father that** **vas "rigid."** **has expressed** **concern about** **l• _** **IC.'S rules.** **t keeps** **to a** **strict schedule.** **f b,y** **. noes** **not allow** **C1n••d to** **consume an** **entire bottle** **of ketchup** **during a** **meal; he** **restricts her** **to a** **generous portion.** **They are** **also Mother's** **rules. b.y_** **has made** **.ch,%t• clean** **up when** **she makes** **a tress,** **.v at** **that time** **had not** **yet had** **a child.** **- ,y** **did not** **let ran;tdplay** **with an** **umbrella in** **the house.** **.h,\Ogets upset** **with'O -Y,** **I's restrictions.** **p.Y,. took** **a blanket** **away from** **Ur xo** **and replaced** **it with** **a new** **one. '•A;tta** **became very** **upset. In** **early 2020,** **Ch-,%O was** **losing a** **tooth and** **Mother and** **p. V,.** **tied a** **string around** **the tooth** **and attached** **the other** **end of** **the string** **to a** **doorknob and** **shut the** **door.****M*,%G****became very** **upset about** **that. Mother** **knows that** **tells Father** **that- ,,,** **i is** **"very mean."** **i•, V,** **and Father** **have issues.** **p,V t** **said things** **to Father** **after Father** **walked into** **their home.** **At the** **custody exchange** **where the** **guns were** **drawn, did** **not hit** **Father, He** **swiped at** **Father's phone** **to have** **him stop** **recording, and** **the phone** **hit Father** **in the** **face. D.K..** **• called** **Father Names** **and threatened** **him. Mother** **believes that** **at Pottsville,** **cw;, Y** **will get** **on the** **bus at** **8:1 SAM** **and get** **offat 3:45PM.** **••k is** **home around** **5:3QPm and** **will make** **dinner and** **help with** **homework. Mother** **will only** **see t✓wd** **I for** **a short** **time in** **the morning.** **Fag% 6** **r 39** **Schuylk- :.l** **co=ty Gove.:.** **aear However** **there may** **be days** **of remote** **learning and** **Mother will** **be there,** **and the** **babysitter will** **take over** **when Mother** **leaves for** **work. Mother** **agrees that** **Father has** **a large** **family in** **:Michigan, that** **has numerous** **cousins there** **, and** **that she** **can ride** **horses at** **her grandmother's.** **Mother does** **not suffer** **from any** **mental health** **issues but** **may have** **suffered from** **postpartum depression** **after H•** **•'s birth.** **has said** **words about** **defending, the** **house and** **shooting people** **who enter,** **including Father,** **in front** **of,;. 06** **At the** **time, •j,•** **i was** **trying to** **teach (zW,%d** **not to** **open the** **door. When** **Mother left** **for Pennsylvania,** **Father was** **present at** **the home.** **Mother gave** **Father her** **address in** **Oley. Mother** **did not** **drain their** **bank account.** **Mother started** **working in** **Danville in** **October of** **2019. It** **is a** **one hour** **commute. Mother** **never filed** **for a** **Protection from** **Abuse Order** **for Father** **and never** **reported his** **threats to** **the police** **. Mother** **agreed that** **despite multiple** **custody proceedings** **, Mother** **did not** **raise these** **allegations until** **today. Mother** **agreed that** **under the** **first custody** **order, Father** **visitedrWgi every** **other weekend,** **despite the** **distance. Mother** **does not** **agree that** **she and** **Father had** **good communication** **about CW.%,A** **in the** **past. Mother** **only disclosed** **the private** **information about** **v.a to** **Father in** **regard to** **how to** **handle tt1,** **not to** **bring Father** **into a** **personal issue.** **When vas** **born, :** **X46 was** **with Father.** **When Chad** **returned, she** **brought gifts** **for Ht** **, which** **Mother threw** **away. Mother** **sent Father** **a text** **not to** **send gifts.** **It was** **the context** **of the** **gifts 10** **Page 17** **of 39** **schaylkill Couaty** **Goverrr=rt that** **caused this.** **The gifts** **were not** **from Cnid** **The gifts** **were not** **a kind** **gesture. Mother** **did not** **throw the** **gifts away** **in ront** **of who** **was excited** **about the** **gifts and** **the baby.** **C-WN6 alls** **1 by** **his name.** **They do** **not encourage** 

### UW**%Ndto call** **daddy. On** **redirect, Mother** **testified that** **she believes** **she is** **secure in** **her current** **living arrangement** **and knows** **she will** **qualify- for** **a mortgage.** **Mosher andZ.-** **agree on** **the larger** **rules for** **(,W,\6 ,** **including bedtime** **and chores.** **will eat** **an exuberant** **amount of** **ketchup, is** **helping Mother** **to help** **.egad eat** **less ketchup** **by placing** **a set** **amount on** **her plate** **and using** **it throughout** **the meal.** **zwg6 complains** **about b.** **V- -** **They have** **discussed it** **as a** **family., T).** **Y. is** **trying to** **set i•\Oup** **for success** **later. c:,n** **6 lives** **at places** **that have** **differcnt rules.** **b N—** **i was** **raised in** **a strict** **environment. Mother** **denies he** **is controlling.** **'s baby** **blanket was** **in pieces.** **1 .y** **;old vn;\d** **that she** **is a** **big girl** **now and** **no longer** **needs a** **baby blanket.** **The blanket** **was disgusting.** **I: was** **not meant** **to be** **a vindictive** **move or** **punishment by** **•. !** **.3— 's** **statements to** **Father have** **always been** **in reaction** **to Father's** **actions or** **words. Father** **walked into** **their home** **when l•.lC** **was not** **home. Mother** **admitted p.•** **made verbal** **threats to** **Father about** **what p** **, Y,** **Nould do** **to him** **if he** **did that** **again. Father** **called Mother** **terrible names** **when she** **became pregnant** **and also** **about -•-)** **<Y, -** **Mother thought** **the toys** **were from** **Father and** **based on** **his comments** **during the** **pregnancy, threw** **them away.** **11 :app** **18 f** **9 Schuyik** **1: County** **Gowr=ent**

### Next,**P tj.,1.** **estifted. He** **is Mother's** **fianed and** **is like** **his best** **friend. He** **is not** **father and** **_ `** 

### calls**him V** **z V** 

### -**QW4 chose** **that. Father** **works everyday** **but Wednesday** **and Saturday.** **Father comes** **home and** **relieves the** **sitter. They** **have dinner** **around b:00PNv1.** **He will** **make dinner** **if Mother** **did not** **get it** **ready. Father** **will ask** **►CIAO how** **her day** **was. They** **eat together.** **They play** **outside. The** **house has** **a fenced-in** **yard and** **a pool.** **They play** 

### on**the swing** **and walk** **in the** **neighborhood. They** **get ready** **for bed** **around 7:00-** **7:30PM, and** **are in** **bed around** **8;00-8:30PM. With** **two children,** **it depends** **on how** **things go.** **If.1•.•,. has** **to discipline** **CrQG, he** **first asks** **Mother. usually** **tells UW** **\6 to** **go to** **her room** **or to** **wait until** **Mother gets** **home. Sometimes** **is made** **to exercise.** 

### _K.**went with** **Mother and** **Hi to** **exchanges until** **earlier this** **year. He** **does not** **want to** **ever again** **be present** **for one.** **p,**

### k_**t**

### \would**drive to** **relieve Mother.** **That day,** **Father was** **there when** **they arrived.** **Mother checked** **on H** **and Father** **unbuckled Father** **started the** **argument, asking** **whether I** 

### needed**a gun** **to intimidate** **Father. •_k.** **said "right."** **Father became** **loud and** **angry. Father** **pushes •.•** **_ 's** **buttons. This** **was not** **their first** **encounter. Father** **asked ;p.•_** **_ .** **if he** **wanted to** **fight, and** **got a** **gun out** **of his** **car, pulled** **the magazine** **out and** **back in,** **cocked the** **gun and** **pointed it** **at b,V** **.i's head.** **walked to** **his vehicle** **without drawing** **his gun,** **which had** **no round** **in the** **chamber, and** **put his** **gun in** **the glove** **box. He** **then walked** **over to** **Father and** **screamed at** **Father because** **was standing** **next to** **"•.• when** **Father drew** **12 rage** **19 ee** **39 3&.uylkill** **County****cI*vernecent****his gun.** **Father was** **videotaping the** **argument without** **poK. 's** **consent. The** **Police arrived.** **father pushes** **t)_L is** **buttons even** **titrte. Father** **makes comments** **in 1WoO** **s presence,** **at Dc** **•_- 's** **house, while** **Mother was** **pregnant, that** **are repugnant.** **D.K is** **not a** **violent person** **and has** **no criminal** **record. He** **has never** **been the** **subject of** **a PFA** **order. His** **father and** **stepmother live** **nearly, about** **five minutes** **away., D.K_t** **treats Haley** **like his** **own child** **and supports** **Mother having** **primary custody.** **On cross** **examination, testified** **that he** **was charged** **with assault** **during an** **incident at** **his father's** **home but** **the charges** **mere later** **dropped,'. '.Y** **. has** **rules at** **the home,** **such as** **.u-;,)6 may** **not play** **with toys** **that the** **baby could** **choke on.** **U) ,kd** **should play** **with her** **toys. QW** **\• is** **allowed to** **have ketchup** **and can** **have more** **if she** **says "please."** **'Q Wr** **j used** **to get** **upset if** **she had** **to cleanup** **after herself** **but now** **is doing** **much better** **. denied** **saying certain** **things about** **Father .'D.K** **__. did** **get in** **Father s** **face during** **the custody** **exchange but** **did not** **strike Father.** **has a** **license to** **carry and** **has every** **right to** **carry a** **gun. bN_** **has two** **safes for** **his guns** **and hunting** **rifles at** **the house.** **:D.K. is** **aware that** **QW01 complains** **to Mother** **about him.** **ch Zk** **also says** **thing about** **Father. %).y-.** **does not** **believe that** **he is** **overly strict** **with •.•** **p cares** **for her** **every night** **until Mother** **returns home** **at 12:30AM.** **Vwod was** **very upset** **when n,v—** **. a** **took her** **old blanket** **away but** **now loves** **her new** **one. 13** **Pa gq** **20 of** **E9 Sehuylkill** **County Goverment** **At that** **point, Mother** **rested. Father** **called his** **new wife,** **L Si** **r ).** **She is** **thirty-three years** **ole; and** **has no** **criminal record,** **Children Youth** **or PFA** **involvement. She** **has known** **Father for** **over two** **years, They** **began living** **together ear** **ier this** **year ,** **and she** **is now** **selling her** **home. With** **the pandemic,** **it has** **been difficult** **to get** **contractors. She** **and Father** **married on** **August 8.** **They planned** **to marry** **earlier but** **were unable** **to do** **so. She** **has two** **children ,** **Mi -** **age 1,** **anO St** **, ,** **age 3.** **' S** **_ `** **met first** **and has** **bonded with** **her. Mi** **i does** **gymnastics with** **They have** **tun and** **right like** **sisters do.** **M i** **made a** **special box** **with an** **outfit in** **it for'ch,\d** **• Father** **and have** **a good** **relationship. w\\zd** **loves Father.** **They do** **a lot** **of outdoor** **activities and** **go to** **a nature** **center. Most** **indoor activities** **are closed** **. They** **have a** **routine and** **joke around** **a lot.** **LS. has** **never heard** **Father comment** **on a** **woman's weight.** **Uri \d** **will say** **something about** **food at** **dinner and** **LS tells** **;•• hat** **healthiness is** **all shapes** **and sizes** **because it** **is very** **important that** **young girls** **have a** **healthy self** **image. Father** **is a** **positive figure** **in U•,d** **°s life.** **•,,, has** **been able** **to co-Parent** **with her** **children's father** **. Father** **and Mother** **do not** **have that** **possibility. s.** **believes they** **are both** **at fault.** **•, would** **not just** **sit there** **and let** **Father decide** **everything .** **She is** **not a** **wallflower. She** **and Father** **present a** **united front** **but they** **have a** **lot of** **conversation behind** **closed doors.** **t-S is** **Qh; 's** **stepmother, not** **mother. A.5** **- advocates** **on Q)Vr** **,,d 's** **behalf to** **both parents** **. LS** **-, and** **like to** **cook together** **and work** **in the** **garden. L---3.** **14 Pagg** **21 of** **]9 Schuy_Y:11** **county eovermaent** **helpsC %,•ct** **with her** **nails and** **hair. In** **the morning,** **they snuggle.** **cwidy is** **an early** **riser. They** **make toast** **and tea.** **Father has** **never been** **phy ca** **lly or** **ver ly** **abusive to** **LS.►. ;LS.** **would not** **tolerate that.** **WO did** **have a** **lice issue** **C,rac1Vs cousins** **received a** **notice from** **school right** **before the** **schools closed** **zm,Na was** **with the** **paternal ,grandmother** **and a** **cousin and** **got head** **lice. Regular** **lice medication** **did not** **work. According** **to the** **internet ,** **this was** **some type** **of "super** **strain ''** **of lice** **. _** **-, was** **unable to** **call the** **doctor for** **a prescription** **because everything** **vas in** **total crisis** **from the** **shutdo n** **from March** **through May.** **_) could** **not get** **an appointment** **for Gr'Vd** **not even** **a triage** **nurse would** **see her.** **mss.: works** **as an** **investment banker** **for JP** **Morgan Chase.** **She works** **from 8:3OAM** **until anywhere** **between 4:** **O0 and** **6:OOPM. She** **gets one** **weekday off** **and works** **a half** **day on** **Saturdays .** **She has** **worked as** **an investment** **banker for** **ten years** **, but** **took time** **off to** **get a** **tnaster's degree** **and teach** **as a** **professor. CV+,ry** **is already** **enrolled at** **the Living** **Stones Academy** **, where** **ts,5: daughter** **attends school** **. It** **is a** **small Christian** **school, non-denominational,** **that has** **one class** **per grade** **and a** **maximum of** **20 students** **per class.** **M t** **has flourished** **there. She** **is on** **the spectrum** **or autism** **and needs** **support. M.** **was at** **a larger** **school prior** **to Living** **Stones, and** **Living Stones** **is more** **supportive. would** **like to** **have a** **relationship with** **Mother in** **regard to** **•> ;,d** **is raga** **22 of** **9 Schuylk!,** **1 County** **Govorrxzt On** **cross examination,** **itr5 stated** **that she** **became involved** **with Father** **in ?019** **and they** **did not** **live together** **until March** **of 2020.** **She was** **not around** **Haley prior** **to that.** **She has** **not mct** **Father's mother,** **C. T1** **;. She** **and Father** **have a** **close relationship** **and she** **knew they** **were engaged.** **L.S. tnd** **Father are** **moving to** **Plainwell from** **Grand Rapids.** **They go** **back and** **forth while** **working on** **the house.** **? has** **been to** **both homes.** **Haley last** **stayed overnight** **with her** **paternal grandmother** **in May.** **Father often** **stays there** **also. It** **is a** **45 minute** **drive from** **Plainwell to** **the school,** **There is** **a public** **school in** **Plainwell but** **they want** **the girls** **to attend** **the same** **school. Both** **k-.5. and** **Father have** **family in** **Grand Rapids.** **C`n;vl calls** **L 5.** **by her** **name, or** **"momma L** **i." LA** **IS able** **to take** **the girls** **to school** **but cannot** **pick them** **up except** **on her** **one weekday** **off from** **work. Next,** **Father testified.** **He lives** **in Plainwell,** **Michigan. lie** **used to** **live at** **his parents** **' home** **. He** **bought land** **along a** **river that** **has ponds,** **woods, chickens** **and ducks,** **and where** **he could** **have his** **dream home.** **Father introduced** **pictures. Father** **purchased the** **home in** **2018. They** **are getting** **ready to** **sell u•3.'s** **home. Father** **put in** **a beach** **at his** **home as** **an engagement** **present to** **L.%, when** **she asked** **him to** **do it** **for the** **children .** **is Father's** **only child** **. There** **are neighbors** **nearby and** **their church** **is about** **eight miles** **away. They** **enjoy the** **support and** **friendship. uo6** **suffers from** **muscular dystrophy.** **Mother did** **not bring** **this up** **when she** **testified. Chao** **suffers from** **mobility issues** **and must** **stay active.** **Otherwise, 16** **Page 23** **of 35** **Sahuy k"I** **County Coverr=e** **jt her** **muscles will** **waste away.** **She is** **sensitive to** **pair.. has** **had several** **doctors' visits.** **She needs** **physical therapy;** **she had** **it prior.** **She needs** **this at** **regular intervals.** **C. N00** **recently failed** **a hearing** **test. Father** **has noticed** **that she** **sometimes stares** **off into** **spare and** **they s:talzs** **out of** **it when** **her name** **is repeated.** **c,W6 failed** **the test** **in both** **ears. Father** **told Mother.** **Mother took** **•Ch•%d for** **a test,** **which she** **passed, but** **Mother is** **taking r,\d** **to a** **specialist. 'this** **is a** **typical response** **by Mother** **to a** **medical issue** **with has** **yeast infections.** **Father has** **taken to** **several doctors** **and has** **talked to** **Mother. Mother** **treats it** **as no** **big deal.** **When Father** **asked her** **about it,** **she said** **she uses** **an ointment.** **Father had** **no idea** **had this** **issue until** **he found** **out that** **U\Wa -** **had it.** **Father has** **no physical** **or mental** **health issues** **and no** **criminal, Children** **& Youth** **or PFA** **record. Mother** **has no** **physical issues** **but suffers** **from depression** **since her** **mother passed** **away. Father** **denied that** **his marriage** **to L.S.** **was quick** **or rushed.** **Father testified** **that LS.** **asked to** **be married,** **and Father's** **proposal %vas** **more like** **a business** **meeting. Father** **loves t_S** **,.wry much.** **Father engages** **in outdoor** **activities with'.** **L5.`5, children** **such as** **walking, biking,** **taking part** **in sports** **and movie** **nights, and** **roughhouses with** **St Father** **has been** **employed with** **UPS for** **21 years.** **He served** **in the** **military. His** **current shift** **is 3:00-4:OOAM** **to 12:00-1:OOPM.** **He just** **won a** **bid and** **has options** **for a** **different shift,** **in the** **event he** **gets primary** **custody oft„** **;Nd ,** **so that** **he can** **take her** **to school.** **This would** **also give** **him a** **more normal** **steep 17** **tag@ 24** **of 39** **Sch:JyJX!I1 County** **Goverrzwnt schedule.** **He has** **had to** **get up** **at 2:30AM** **for 20** **.ears. With** **a 9:00AM** **to 2:04PM** **schedule, he** **can drop** **the girls** **off at** **school and** **pick them** **up at** **3:OOPM. Living** **Stones Academy** **has a** **reopening plan** **with COViD** **precautions. Father's** **new shift** **could be** **flexible if** **the school** **goes to** **a virtual** **teaching plan.** **Work is** **aware of** **Father's situation** **with :;•;•c_1** **and they** **are willing** **to be** **flexible. LS,** **has a** **very large** **family with** **many cousins** **in the** **age ranges** **of 2** **to 13** **years old..r-j** **;•, saw** **them several** **timcs each** **week prior** **to the** **pandemic. Father's** **parents live** **20-25 miles** **.% ay.** **They have** **not yet** **ntet _-.** **because His** **mother gets** **unusually attached** **to Father's** **friends and** **if the** **relationship does** **not work** **out, she** **becomes heartbroken.** **Father wants** **to make** **sure the** **relationship is** **real before,,!** **D,t meets** **his mother.** **Father's father** **is a** **lineman having** **worked forty** **years for** **an energy** **company. His** **mother was** **a teacher.** **She tutors** **regularly. They** **live on** **a large** **farm with** **horses.L' %,rA** **loves riding.** **Father's brother** **Ti also** **lives there,** **as there** **are several** **houses on** **the farm.** **T uses** **medical marijuana** **for his** **anxiety, but** **not around** **. Father's** **family watches** **chad' when** **he and** **t-.5. at** **work so** **he does** **not need** **child care.** **Father gets** **along well** **with M** **'s father,** **! and** **with her** **siblings. Father** **and Mother** **married on** **April 29,** **2012, and** **was born** **in December** **of 2014.** **They lived** **outside of** **Grand Rapids.** **Mother wanted** **to get** **a job** **to get** **experience in** **her niche** **field. She** **could not** **get a** **job locally** **without having** **any experience.** **Mother told** **Fattier she** **was taking** **a job** **in Pennsylvania** **to get** **experience, and** **that she** **would be** **then come** **back. Father** **took Mother** **at her** **18 PagQ** **29 of** **39 Sehuylksl** **: Cowity** **Government word.** **As soon** **as Mother** **got to** **Pennsylvania, the** **struggle began.** **,Mother did** **not tell** **Father where** **she lived.** **Mother filed** **for custody** **in Berks** **County and** **Father was** **awarded every** **other weekend.** **It was** **not a** **workable arrangement** **for Father** **but he** **did it** **anyway. Then,** **in 2019,** **he received** **shared custody** **with Mother.** **Mother's story** **about leaving** **is not** **true. Father** **could not** **have boxed** **her in** **with a** **vehicle. They** **are neighbors.** **Father was** **not home** **when Mother** **left. Father** **was on** **a two** **week deployment** **in the** **Army. Mother** **had told** **him she** **was going** **to leave** **, but** **Father told** **her not** **to. and** **he thought** **the matter** **was tabled** **. Father** **trusted Mother** **and thought** **the relationship** **was salvageable** **. Father** **took Mother** **at her** **word that** **she was** **coming back.** **Father provided** **all of** **the transportation** **fot until** **the 2018** **Order. Father** **recalls that** **he met,** **D•'-- in** **2018. Initially,** **they had** **a good** **relationship. ,** **helped Father** **when his** **old car** **would break** **down. Then** **when Father** **entered, 's** **house it** **became a** **big thine.** **Father arrived** **early to** **pick up** **f r.•tl** **. et** **was at** **work. Mother** **opened the** **door and** **went to** **get 'c** **W NrS** **, leaving** **the door** **open .** **Father took** **a step** **into the** **home, and** **Mother told** **him to** **leave, so** **he stepped** **back onto** **the porch.** **Mother called** **'D x.** **is brother** **Cr+•. and** **CN- watched** **Father from** **CLIk— 's** **car until** **Father left** **with became** **very angry** **and thought** **it was** **a ploy** **by Father.** **At another** **exchange, things** **were said** **that they** **now regret.** **Father warts** **to havc** **a good** **relationship with** **n-k. ,** **like he** **does witlt** **L5.1 and** **C1 19** **?egp 26** **of 39** **schuylk: 1** **County v'ove** **z:.om. Father** **attended a** **doctor's appointment** **for Qy+4** **with Mother,** **and C'.Y,..** **showed up.** **Father has** **had no** **difficulty with** **•,.•. ,'s** **brother. Al** **the custody** **exchange, Father** **for the** **first time** **saw it.k,** **carrying a** **gun. Father** **felt was** **brandishing it.** **Father admits** **tha: he** **"poked` p** **x. and** **aggravated him,** **after which** **p_x,. became** **very upset** **and loud,** **b,, was** **threatening Father** **verbally, and** **then turned** **to his** **car and** **took his** **gun out** **of the** **holster. Father** **did not** **know what** **b,Y,. was** **going to** **do, so** **he took** **cover, got** **his weapon,** **but did** **not point** **it at** **b.x. .** **Father knows** **now that** **t,.k. i** **was simply** **putting his** **gun in** **his vehicle.** **, told** **Father to** **back off** **and get** **out of** **his face.** **Father backed** **to his** **car, but** **p.k_ i** **came at** **him, so** **Father started** **filming. Father** **does this** **because it** **usually stops** **whatever activity** **is ongoing** **and everyone** **starts acting** **nicely, cv\;\O** **was behind** **him the** **entire time.** **p K.** **tried to** **swipe Father's** **phone and** **hit Father** **in the** **face and** **made bumping** **moves. Mother** **got in** **between them** **and told** **p.k. that** **he was** **going to** **make her** **lose custody** **ofLr,•• Mother** **has spoken** **to Father** **about' p•k** **is relationship** **with u;r,** **and how** **Ch,tid is** **timid and** **afraid that** **she is** **breaking the** **rules. Father** **has received** **texts from** **Mother that** **have Father** **concerned. ,"** **•• was** **very upset** **about the** **blanket. Father** **had the** **same blanket** **and ordered** **one for** **•,,W d** **Father used** **to be** **able to** **video chat** **with lch;,** **but now** **he has** **to video** **chat prior** **to l:4dPM,** **when Father** **is at** **work. If** **Father calls** **h k** **is phone,** **p,k rarely** **responds. Last** **night, Father** **was able** **to chat.** **When C_Wkr3** **is with** **20 Pagr** **27 o£** **39 8ch-jylkxit** **County Cove-mm** **Fattier, Mother** **regularly chats** **with tw-0** **and Father** **never limits** **their time.** **needs both** **louring parents** **actively involved** **in her** **life. Father's** **communication with** **Mother was** **good but** **not now.** **Father believes** **that put** **the kibosh** **to this** **after Father** **walked into** **their home,** **n_l- t** **no longer** **comes to** **custody exchanges** **in Ohio.** **Mother comes** **on her** **own with** **Father does** **not believe** **co-parenting will** **work because** **of the** **incidents with** **n•K Mother** **does not** **share anything** **with Father** **about l-W„6** **Father finds** **o:at from** **F Cry** **\d Father** **would like** **to speak** **regularly with** **Mother so** **that they** **can co-parent** **and mutually** **exchange information.** **Father asked** **Mother about** **using "My** **Family Wizard"** **to communicate** **and received** **no response.** **Father is** **not perfect** **and there** **are areas** **he needs** **to %vork** **on. When** **Mother had** **her new** **baby, she** **asked Father** **to keep** **e,r'm3 Father** **and his** **mother were** **very excited** **and believed** **they received** **a gift.** **Cn;O1y told** **Father about** **how Mother** **and o.** **L. i** **had pulled** **her tooth** **out by** **slamming a** **door with** **a string** **tied to** **it. Father** **called Mother,** **and Mother** **admitted to** **it. c** **h: was** **traumatized by** **this and** **was afraid** **Father would** **do the** **same when** **she had** **another loose** **tooth. Father** **has attempted** **to work** **with Mother** **but it** **is like** **working with** **a brick** **wall. cwad** **is happy,** **loveable.and funny.** **She is** **very sensitive.** **She needs** **a lot** **of positive** **reinforcement. Father** **does things** **with her** **to make** **it fun,** **and then** **she is** **able to** **do there** **herself. Father** **is concerned** **that Mother** **won't be** **around It** **04 and** **ki,)e\ will** **be with** **1t,.1,.i predominantly.** **Father does** **not think** **that o,,..** **t will** **facilitate an** **21 Page** **28 of** **39 sckwylkLU** **coumy Goveroaezt** 

### open**co-parenting relationship.** **Father will** **lose tn** **q\J and** **ch'k\will**

### not**want to** **get to** **know her** **family in** **.Michigan. T)•%(.** 

### has**flaunted his** **relationship with** **Hazel and** **has her** **call him** **"daddy." z>.k.** 

### has**bragged to** **Father that** **he is** **going to** **be the** **"daddy" ro\v.** **In August** **of 2019,** **Mother teated** **Father to** **come and** **get Cr,'** 

### e6right**away. Mother** **m.**

### -ould**not say** **what the** **problem was.** **Father and** **Mother lives** **a 16** **hours' drive** **apart. Mother** **did not** **say why** **or give** **any details.** **Father was** **very**

### concerned**and wondered** **about Mother's** **stability. Father** **was concerned** **Hazel was** **not in** **a safe** **environment. LS,** 

### is**a very** **positive influence** **and gets** **along well** **with lrh:cl.** **1 LA;Nz1** 

### often**goes to.** **LS**

### -for**things. LSj** 

### enrolled**her in** **school. Living** **Stones Academy** **empowers**

### students.**Father would** **like primary** **custody of** **and wants** **to enroll** **her in** **school in** **Michigan. Mother** **can have** **tr;td for** **the summer** **and during** **school**

### breaks.**Father can** **provide**

### better**stability and** **growth and** **cWNd :an** **be around** **her**

### family**in Michigan.** **Father will** **change his** **work schedule** **and be** **with her** **all of** **the time.** **On cross-examination,** **Father testified** **that chtyd** **'s muscular** 

### dystrophy**is mild** **and she** **is not** **currently treated** **for it.** **She does** **need regular** **activity because** **she has** **loose joints** **and activity** **keeps her** **muscles from** 

### atrophying.**C' 's** **wife is** **a physical** **therapist and** **she can** 

### work**with UbN6** 

### Wi6**has a** **regular pediatrician** **in Michigan.** **Father regularly** **speaks with** **Mother. Father** **admits that** **22 Fagg** **29 of** **39 Schuylk:El** **CW ty** **3war areat** 

### he**wrote that** **'Ch;vd' calls** **U5t "momma** **Li ."** **Father admits** **that lie** **knew Mother** **and Unoo** **% ere** **moving to** **Pennsylvania in** **2017 and** **that rather** **did not** **go to** **court or** **to go** **get 'QNO,** **although he** **did :beet** **with an** **attorney at** **the time.** **Father did** **not have** **Mother's address.** **Father came** **at Christmas** **and stayed** **for a** **short period.** **The lust** **time Mother** **filed for** **custody, lather** **was engaged** **to a** **woman named** **Ei They** **did not** **live together,** **Father lived** **with his** **parents at** **that time,** **but he** **later moved** **in with** **E, That** **relationship ended** **in early** **2018. U\1\6** **met Ei** **and developed** **a bond** **with her.** **QK 16** **was sad** **when they** **broke up.** **Father dated** **other women** **but only** **introducedrr •** **1 to** **one other** **beside B** **and „S.** **Father started** **dating t.S.** **in July** **2019. Father** **admitted that** **his mother** **has not** **met j_5,** **and that** **is why** **he did** **not introduce** **them, because** **his mother** **gets more** **attached to** **his girlfriends** **than QA;td** **1. Father** **is more** **worried about** **his mother** **than Ch,%d** **in this** **respect. Can-+d** **spends a** **lot of** **time with** **his mother** **and has** **her own** **bedroom there.** **His mother** **has room** **for all** **of her** **grandchildren. Father** **has 30** **days to** **decide about** **the bid** **he won** **and change** **his schedule.** **He and** **. have** **a nanny** **if the** **need arises** **, but** **right now** **they have** **extended family.** **The trip** **to school** **will be** **80 miles** **round trip.** **Father attempted** **to reach** **out to** **Mother about** **school options** **for aN;•U** **but Mother** **never responds** **to Father's** **first attempts** **to reach** **out to** **her. Father** **cannot text** **her and** **they are** **not allowed** **to speak** **on the** **phone. Father** **prefers to** **talk face** **to face** **or on** **the phone** **or via** **FaceTime. It** **is chaotic** **to text** **or email** **and receive** **no response.** **Father and** **L!5, will** **pay for** **.Z •,•O** **'s school.** **23 Pagp** **30 of** **39 BChUyiuiii** **County Goves.==-.** **On re-direct** **, Father** **testified that** **he trusted** **Mother and** **did riot** **file for** **divorce based** **on his** **religions convictions.** **Father thought** **they could** **work it** **out. rather** **is a** **Seventh Day** **Adventist Christian.** **This Court** **must determine** **which custody** **arrangement is** **in the** **best interests** **of the** **child pursuant** **to the** **Child Custody** **law, codified** **at 23** **Pa C.S.** **§§ 5321** **et seq.** **We must** **consider the** **testimony in** **light of** **the sixteen** **enumerated factors** **set forth** **in 23** **Pa.C.S .** **§ 5328(a** **). The** **Court has** **considered the** **evidence in** **light of** **each of** **these factors** **as well** **as any** **outer relevant** **factors and** **concludes that** **it is** **in the** **best interests** **ofthe child** **for Mother** **to have** **primary physical** **custody during** **the school** **year, for** **Father to** **have partial** **custody during** **the summers** **, and** **for the** **parties to** **share legal** **custody, Applying** **23 Pa.C.S** **. §** **5328(a), the** **first factor** **we must** **consider is** **which parent** **is more** **likely to** **encourage and** **permit frequent** **and continuing** **contact between** **the child** **and the** **other party** **. We** **find that** **Father is** **slightly more** **likely to** **encourage frequent** **contact .** **Mother moved** **to Pennsylvania** **with in** **2017 and** **did not** **dispute Father's** **claim that** **lie did** **not visit** **because he** **did not** **have Mother** **s address** **. When** **Mother gave** **him her** **address ,** **he came** **to visit** **for Christmas.** **Since then,** **Father exercised** **his custody** **time and** **provided all** **of the** **transportation until** **recently .** **Every other** **weekend ,** **he drove** **32 hours** **round trip** **to seeM;** **\d !.** **He never** **refused to** **return to** **Mother and** **kept u** **,•O for** **extra time** **when Mother** **asked him** **to. The** **only thing** **he did** **was not** **to agree** **to give** **Mother one** **of his** **months in** **exchange for** **the month** **he keptU\.,oci** **at 24** **:age L:** **o: 39** **scl y•k_3:** **Cow Ly** **3ova.-Ma: C** **Mother's request.** **Mother has** **ample FaceTime** **with while** **with Father.** **Mother has** **limited Father's** **FaceTime with** **by requiring** **Father to** **call prior** **to 1:OOPM,** **when she** **knows he** **works from** **3:OOAA4 until** **1:OOPM. While** **Mother is** **obviously trying** **to prevent** **interaction between** **Father and** **n.\(- t.** **the fact** **is that** **Mother is** **intentionally limiting** **Father's ability** **to communicate** **with lvh;\cl** **and is** **not providing** **some other** **solution so** **that father** **may communicate** **with when** **Father is** **home from** **work in** **the afternoon** **or evening.** **We note** **that Mother** **has never** **withheld the** **child from** **Father and** **has encouraged** **Father and** **w\d :o** **have a** **relationship otherwise.** **The second** **factor is** **any past** **or present** **abuse or** **involvement by** **any county** **Children &** **Youth Agency.** **There is** **no agency** **involvement. Mother** **alleges that** **Father was** **abusive to** **her prior** **to Mother's** **move to** **Pennsylvania; however,** **this was** **raised for** **the first** **time at** **the custody** **trial, attd** **not at** **any prior** **proceeding. Mother** **and \j,\(,** **. also** **allege that** **rather verbally** **abuses them** **in front** **of likewise,** **Father alleges** **that mK** **. has** **verbally assaulted** **him in** **front of** 

### b)w**. .** **This must** **stop. This** **factor weighs** **slightly in** **favor of** **Mother. The** **third factor** **is the** **parental duties** **performed by** **each party** **on behalf** **of the** **child. This** **factor currently** **weighs equally** **between the** **parents. Both** **parents take** **.W,%d to** **the doctor** **and attend** **to her** **needs. There** **is no** **evidence that** **one parent** **is better** **at it** **than another,** **The fourth** **factor is** **the need** **for stability** **and continuity** **in the** **child's education,** **family life** **and community** **life. Father** **owns a** **home in** **Michigan and** **is 25** **Pace 32** **of 39** **Schsylkzl: Cowmy** **Goverr.¢ent recently** **married .** **K)N%4 spends** **most of** **her time** **in Michigan** **with family.** **Because of** **the COVID** **shutdown ,** **it is** **difficult for** **anyone to** **establish community** **involvement at** **this time** **. Father** **has had** **three women** **in :his** **life whon** **U)'od. has** **met. Two** **she bonded** **with. Mother** **has only** **had one** **significant person** **ir her** **life since** **2417, b** **IC. ,** **Keip, and** **they are** **engaged to** **be married.** **Mother lives** **in a** **house with** **p.. that** **is owned** **by 'b** **-1L .'** **s brother** **. Mother** **is relying** **on the** **upcoming wedding** **to be** **able to** **purchase the** **house and** **get a** **mortgage. Prior** **to that,** **Mother rented** **two separate** **places to** **live since** **2017. Mother** **has no** **family in** **Pennsylvania, although** **max, +cs** **I is** **close to** **N•).K. 'S** **family, and** **they treat** **her as** **their own.** **All of** **Father s** **family lives** **nearby in** **ichigan .** **As for** **as education,** **cxiab is** **just starting** **school this** **fall. Father** **is able** **to change** **his work** **shift to** **be with)** **unless she** **is at** **school .** **Mother will** **be with** **k•\•1ei for** **breakfast and** **to get** **Cal;•O ready** **for school** **. •,;•** **tl will** **be with** **' tj,k** **. ,** **after school** **until bedtime.** **There was** **no significant** **evidence that** **Mother will** **be able** **to switch** **her shift** **at work** **to spend** **more time** **with :Ch"Sd** **Father is** **more stable** **in terms** **of residences** **, Mother** **is more** **stable in** **terms of** **having had** **only one** **significant relationship** **. Community** **involvement is** **practically zero** **at this** **time due** **to the** **COVID shut** **down. This** **factor weighs** **equally. The** **next factor** **is the** **availability of** **extended family** **to help** **with the** **children. This** **factor weighs** **in favor** **of Father** **. Mother** **and b.`►** **— are** **not yet** **26 :acp** **33 of** **39 Schuylksll** **County Gove** **r=v t** **married. Mother** **has no** **family in** **Pennsylvania. QWtO** **sees her** **paternal grandparents** **and cousins** **regularly. The** **child did** **not express** **a preference** **and did** **not testify.** 

### The**factor of** **sibling relationships** **is weighted** **in**

### favor**of Mother.** **CIA06 has** **a new** **half-sibling baby** **brother with** **Mother. Father** **does not** **have any** **other children.** **The next** **factor is** **whether a** **parent has** **attempted to** **turn the** **child against** **the other** **parent. We** **find no** **evidence that** **either party** **is purposefully** **engaged in** **this sort** **of behavior** **at the** **present time.** **However. Father** **must stop** **making caustic** **remarks to** **and about** **Mother and/or** **.o-Y .** **, at** **any time,** **and particularly** **in front** **of**

### This**is a** **form of** **insidious parental** **alienation. Father** **testified that** **he recognizes** **that he** **intentionally pushes** **t,.Y,. 's** **buttons to** **cause:•„ 1** 

### to**explode, and** **that he** **then pulls** **out his** **phone camera** **"to get** **the behavior** **to stop."** **Father needs** **to seek** **counseling to** **learn how** **to stop** **engaging in** **this behavior** **which is** **harmful to** **everyone including** **the child.** **Likewise, ad** 

### i**is unable** **to control** **himself during** **these times,** **adding fuel** **to the** **tire. Both** **seem oblivious** **to the** **child during** **these times.** **This factor** **weighs in** **favor of** **Mother because** **of Father's** **intentional harmful** **statements to** 

### p•**and about** **Mother in** **front of** **the**

### child.**The next** **factor is** **which party** **is more** **likely to** **maintain a** **loving, stable,** **consistent and** **nurturing relationship** **with the** **child adequate** **for the** **child's emotional** **needs. We** **find that** **both are,** **except when** **Father is** **goading n,K** **. or** **27 Page** **3s f** **39 Schuylkill** **Cw..;Aty Cove:nEu** **nt saying** **terrible things** **about Mother** **in front** **of the** **child. Father's** **and**

### 's**behaviors in** **front of** **:he child** **are not** **acceptable. TF.ere** **is a** **reason that** **every custody** **order provides** **that no** **one is** **to speak** **ill of** **either parent** **in front** **of a** **child. This** **factor weighs** **in favor** **of Mother.** 

### We**find that** **Father is** **the parent** **more willing** **to attend** **to the** **daily physical** **emotional, developmental** **and educational** **needs of** **the child.** **We were,** **frankly, shocked** **when we** **learned after** **Mother's case-in-chief** **had rested** **that the** **child has** **muscular dystrophyWhile** **it inay** **be mild,** **this is** **a condition** **that must** **be monitored** **and attended** **to. Mother** **made no** **mention of** **this condition.** **Mother must** **rely can** **a babysitter** **to help** **educate on** **the days** **she would** **be attending** **school at** **home, online,** **after Mother** **leaves for** **work at** **l :OOPM.** **Mother would** **be able** **to help** **educate**

### M;%d**earlier in** **the day,** **but Mother** **also has** **a young** **infant that** **she would** **have to** **attend to** **at the** **some time.** **Mother admitted** **that c,Y\;+cl** **would need** **someone to** **sit with** **her and** **guide her** **through the** **online classes.** **Mother did** **not seem** **realistic about** **her plan** **to get** **everything done** **wish .•,W,** **G's education** **as well** **as eating** **breakfast ,** **lunch, going** **for a** **walk and** **having her** **son take** **a nap** **while kwid** **has quiet** **time and** **watches a** **movie, prior** **to Mother** **leaving for** **work. As** **-OX- testified,** **many days** **depend on** **the children** **and how** **cooperative or** **uncooperative they** **are .** **Mother was** **willing to** **have the** **child's hearing** **tested and** **to get** **a second** **opinion. Father** **is the** **parent who** **testified about** **CrrAO's condition** **and the** **importance of** **keeping active** **and keeping** **her muscles** **from deteriorating.** **Father's 28** **Page 35** **of 39** **Schuylkill County** **zoveraaent brother's** **wife is** **a physical** **therapist who** **can help** **d Father** **presented the** **re opening** **plan for** **the Living** **Sores Academy,** **which he** **is willing** **to pay** **for as** **well as** **to take** **cn;kol to** **school and** **pick her** **up along** **withl—S. Cs** **daughter. Father's** **work schedule** **is flexible** **and Fattier** **testified that** **his long-time** **employer is** **willing to** **let him** **go part-time** **and to** **have adjustable** **hours to** **be able** **to do** **this and** **to be** **with ,ch:16.** **Father provided** **more testimony** **and evidence** **about how** **} \Z%O** **is a** **happy, funny** **and vivacious** **child. Mother's** **testimony tended** **to focus** **on how** **CM;No is** **developing a** **close relationship** **with D-K:** **'s family,** **Father's lack** **of cooperation..** **and issues** **with t,K,** **t. Mother** **does attend** **to the** **daily needs** **of the** **child or** **sees that** **others provide** **those needs** **when Mother** **is not** **present. As** **far as** **the proximity** **of the** **residences of** **the parties,** **the parties** **live 16** **hours from** **each other,** **in two** **different states.** **Physical custody** **can no** **longer be** **shared now** **that Qn;jd** **" is** **ready to** **start school.** **As far** **as each** **parent's availability** **to care** **for the** **child or** **ability to** **make appropriate** **child-care arrangements,** **Mother can** **make appropriate** **care arrangements.** **There were** **no complaints** **about the** **babysitter, and** **-T•.k, i** **is not** **an inappropriate** **caregiver. i** **b K,** **has willingly** **of ered** **to help** **care for** **C: A;** **td and** **is learning** **how to** **raise children,** **as all** **parents must** **do. Mother** **relies on** **both the** **babysitter and** **p f-,** **i to** **care for** **Ly•y ti** **•j when** **Mother is** **at work.** **Mother's time** **to care** **for is** **also now** **shared with** **another young** **child. Mother** **relies upon** **T q** **is family** **to help** **with C•,kO** **as well,** **and they** **are obviously** **willing to** **do that** **and are** **fond of** **the child,** **but they** **are not** **yet family.** **29 Page** **36 of** **33 9C1:nylkUl** **ates_y overment** **Father is** **willing to** **change to** **a part** **time position** **so that** **he can** **be with** **Q xx'6-** **except when** **she is** **attending school.** **Father also** **utilizes the** **paternal grandparents** **for child** **care. Father** **is often** **present as** **well. However,** **the fact** **that Father** **has not** **introduced his** **new wife** **t-S to** **his mother** **with the** **only explanation** **being that** **his mother** **grows very** **attached to** **people, and** **.t_S.e's inability** **to explain** **it during** **questioning, is** **very strange.** **Father and** **L5 are** **married, ands,** **has never** **met the** **paternal grandmother.** **This Court** **could only** **wonder how** **Father is** **able to** **juggle separately** **his marriage** **and his** **mother. There** **is obviously** **some prob!em** **there. Father** **admitted that,** **',%S had** **bonded with** **his first** **fianed, which** **did not** **work out.** **This factor** **weighs in** **favor of** **bother. The** **next factor** **is whether** **there is** **a credible** **concern of** **drug and** **alcohol abuse** **for either** **party. There** **is none.** **There are** **no mental** **or physical** **concerns for** **either party** **or anyone** **in their** **household concerning** **the child,** **other than** **those already** **discussed. Finally,** **the Court** **considers the** **factor of** **the level** **of conflict** **between the** **parties and** **their willingness** **and ability** **to cooperate** **with each** **other concerning** **the child.** **The level** **of conflict** **is high.** **Father says** **insulting things** **to Mother** **and t•.•.** **t. Father** **goads 71** **6.k. i** **into a** **rage and** **then fiims** **him on** **his phone** **camera. Mother** **does not** **want to** **communicate with** **Father as** **a result.** **Mother testified** **that Father** **does this** **all of** **the time.** **This must** **stop. 30** **Fay. 37** **09 39** **schny ks_:** **Comty Goverment** **The custody** **exchange must** **be addressed** **. There** **shall be** **no guns** **worn, carried** **or drawn** **inCA%;)b s** **presence, during** **custody exchanges** **or at** **any other** **tip„c. 1n** **all :n** **years on** **the bend** **:, this** **member of** **the Court** **has never** **heard such** **a story** **of guns** **being worn** **, drawn** **and aimed** **during an** **innocent child's** **tstody exchange** **. No** **one seems** **concerned in** **the slightest** **about the** **impact of** **witnessing these** **events onUYl** **161. Ch\1d** **loges both** **of her** **parents. Father** **and •p** **lt. _** **appear to** **be the** **persons fueling** **the fire** **of animosity** **and rage** **. 1\b** **one leveled** **any accusations** **at Mother** **along these** **lines, other** **than her** **failure to** **respond to** **Father s** **inquiries .** **Who can** **blame her?** **Father, Mother** **and n** **- n** **needs to** **take whatever** **steps they** **need to** **take to** **end these** **frankly childish** **behaviors .** **Counseling, co-parenting** **counseling, parenting** **programs mediation** **, Our** **Family Wizard** **— there** **are a** **myriad of** **professionals and** **programs available** **on the** **internet and** **in person** **to help** **parents and** **paramours and** **fiancds who** **cannot or** **will not** **or do** **not want** **to get** **along, learn** **to either** **accept and** **cope ,** **and not** **to react** **. Father** **in particular** **needs to** **change his** **behaviors .** **The goading** **of another** **individual into** **rage is** **a terrible** **and insidious** **thing to** **do to** **another person** **. Father** **needs professional** **help to** **end his** **harmful behaviors** **which are** **being witnessed** **by the** **child. For** **these reasons,** **we believe** **that Mother** **should have** **primary physical** **custody. Should** **either party** **wish to** **relocate after** **the date** **of entry** **of this** **Order, all** **parties need** **to be** **aware that** **our child** **custody statute** **has very** **strict relocation** **requirements .** **No relocation** **shall occur** **by one** **party unless** **the other** **party 31** **Pap 38** **of 39** **Schuylkill county** **wvarnmrt**

### consents.**23 Pa.C,S.** **§ 5337(b)(I).** **If the** **otherparty does** **not consent,** **the relocating** **party must** **first seek** **approval from** **the Court** **prior to** **relocating. 23** **Pa-C.S. §** **5337(b)(2). There** **are strict** **notice requirements** **which must** **be followed** **as well.** **23 Pa.C.S.** **§ 5337(c).** 

## See**ltslo Pa.R.C.P.** **1915.17. Therefore** **we enter** **the following:**