The News-Item will begin a new era Monday with two significant changes involving www.newsitem.com.

One is a "metered model" for the website and the other is the availability of an "e-edition" with the look of a newspaper, without the paper.

Metered model

First, The News-Item will begin charging a subscription fee to view most content on its website, www.newsitem.com. Using a fee structure known as the "metered model," the first nine stories viewed over a 30-day period will be free. After that, readers will be asked to subscribe to view more stories.

Visits to the home page, section fronts, obituaries, blogs, classified ads, photo galleries and paid "milestone" announcements like engagements, weddings and anniversaries will continue to be free.

Subscribers to the print edition of The News-Item may purchase unlimited access to stories, photos, videos, reader comments, databases and other content for only $1.99 a month or $14.99 annually. And at a special introductory price, those without print subscriptions may purchase unlimited access for $7.99 a month, $42.99 for six months or $74.99 annually.

Readers can continue using the website normally. Starting June 6, they will be prompted to subscribe after viewing nine free stories.

Industry trend

Charging for online access is an industry trend to gain revenue to support the expense of reporting the news around the state and nation at small and large newspapers alike. Newspaper websites from Scranton and Lancaster in Pennsylvania to The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times have started some form of online access fee, and other newspapers also are charging for content this year. "This is an important step in our effort to continue providing high-quality journalism," said Henry H. Nyce, publisher of The News-Item. "People subscribe to our print edition to get our news because they know it's valuable; it's the same with our web site, especially as we provide more breaking news and fresh content throughout the day.

"We're going to begin charging a very nominal price for the news, which costs us millions of dollars every year to produce," Nyce continued. "For pennies a day, web readers will be able to access the most complete news report possible for central and eastern Northumberland County, southern Columbia County and northern Schuylkill County."

Nyce said web readers can still get the gist of the news with free access to the newsitem.com home page as well as obituaries, classified ads and blogs, and any nine articles a month they choose to read. "We are the only local newspaper with a full-time bureau reporter in Harrisburg," he added. "Our efforts have paid off for readers with national and state journalism awards."

E-edition

The second change is the addition of an electronic edition for PCs, Macs, SmartPhones or tablets that offers an online version of the printed newspaper in its familiar "page" format or in an exciting, new, easy-to-share Smart version enhanced with a suite of digital tools, including RSS feeds, social networking, blogging, audio and more. To begin an e-edition subscription, visit http://newsitem.newspaperdirect.com. Subscribers to the print edition of The News-Item may purchase the e-edition for only $1.99 a month or $14.99 annually. And at a special introductory price, those without print subscriptions may purchase access for $7.99 a month, $42.99 for six months or $74.99 annually.

With the e-edition, subscribers can read today's issue of The News-Item anytime, anywhere. It is the same as the print edition - including special sections - but available in digital format.

Content on the website includes the award-winning news and sports coverage, political coverage, breaking news and traffic alerts, weddings and engagements, Associated Press national and world news, videos, photo galleries, archives, searchable databases and more. Questions about the metered model website or the e-edition can be directed to David R. Sickle, director of circulation, at 644-5700 or dave_s@newsitem.com.

Q: What's changing on newsitem.com? A: The News-Item will be charging for unlimited access to newsitem.com beginning June 6. Online visitors may view nine articles free of charge every 30 days. A website subscription allows readers full and unlimited access to all stories and features on newsitem.com. Also, a new product - an online version of the printed newspaper - will be available by subscription separately. Q: How will the new website subscription system work? A: Effective Monday, June 6, readers accessing newsitem.com will be able to read up to nine complete articles every 30 days for free before they have to pay for content. They will have to subscribe to go beyond nine articles. Users will be prompted with a message about the subscription system.

Q. How do I subscribe to the website?

A. Simply continue using the website normally. Starting June 6, you will be prompted to subscribe after you view your nine free stories. Simply enter the required information to receive unlimited access to newsitem.com.

Q. How do I subscribe to the e-edition? Starting June 6, visit the e-edition site at http://newsitem.newspaperdirect.com. There you will be given the simple steps required to begin your new e-edition subscription. Q: I'm already a print subscriber to The News-Item. Do I get a discount to view the website? A: Yes, print subscribers can get unlimited access to the website for a greatly reduced rate: only $1.99 a month or $14.99 annually. Those without print subscriptions may purchase unlimited access at a special introductory prices of $7.99 a month, $42.99 for six months or $74.99 annually. Q: Will all content on the site be covered by this new metering system? A: No. The system counts articles only. It does not include such features as obituaries (which are hosted online by legacy.com), blogs, paid Lifestyle announcements, videos, photo galleries and classified ads. Users may also continue to browse the homepage and section pages for free. Q: Will the site look different starting June 6? A: It will look the same, except for the sign-up notices that will pop up from time to time, and The News-Item will continue to add new features to the site in the coming months. Q: How will the new electronic edition of The News-Item work?

A: The e-edition will be accessible for your PC, Mac, SmartPhone or tablet. It is an online version of the printed newspaper in its familiar printed format at http://newsitem.newspaperdirect.com. Q: Why do I have to pay for something I've always gotten for free? A: If you read nine or fewer stories every 30 days, the website will continue to be free for you. If you find enough value in reading more than nine stories per month, we ask that you support our work by purchasing a subscription for unlimited access to our website. In order to continue to provide our readers with the level of coverage they've come to expect, we need to explore new revenue models that support our online endeavors. The digital age has changed the way newspapers need to do business. Therefore our business has to adapt and continue to search for additional revenue streams so that coverage is uninterrupted. For pennies per day, our readers can have the convenience of reading stories on our website. In addition to the stories found in the print edition, our website readers have access to more photography, videos, reader comments, breaking news and all of our databases, as well as links to other interesting stories from around the world.

Finally, the e-edition is a different product altogether - an easy-to-use online version of the printed newspaper in its familiar printed format and unlike anything The News-Item has ever offered before. Q: What if I have other questions about the website or the e-edition? A: If you have other questions, call 644-5700 or email Director of Circulation David R. Sickle at dave_s@newsitem.com.

by news-item staff

SUNBURY - Northumberland County Controller Anthony L. Phillips appointed Staci Raker, of Sunbury, as first deputy controller Tuesday.

Raker, who serves as the retirement administrator and AP specialist in the controller's office, will retain her title and salary associated with the position, said Phillips in a letter to the commissioners, which was forwarded to The News-Item by Chairman Frank Sawicki.

She will possess and discharge all the rights, powers and duties of the controller during any necessary absences, according to the letter.

Phillips, the former deputy controller, had served as acting controller since the resignation early this year of Charles Erdman, who accepted a position with the Corbett administration.

by justin strawser

MOUNT CARMEL - A disabled borough veteran has taken it upon himself to draft state legislation that would protect his rights and those of veterans like him from "illegal" court decisions regarding disability compensation.

Joseph Brodie, 31, of 136 W. Third St., Mount Carmel, has met with state Rep. Kurt Masser (D-107) and said the legislator was "very receptive and understanding of the need for changes to occur."

According to federal law, veteran disability compensation cannot be used for alimony or child support, but many county judges violate this either out of ignorance or disregard, said Brodie.

"Everybody puts the ribbons on the cars and fly their flags. It's not the people who aren't supporting the troops, it's the government," he said. "I'm being spat on by the state."

He said Northumberland County court recently ruled that 55 percent of his income should go to child support. A Schuylkill County judge ruled the other 45 percent go to his second child.

"I was left with nothing," he said.

Suicide rate up

Brodie, who has been outspoken on this and other issues facing veterans, undergoes occupational therapy for physiological tremors from brain injuries he sustained in Iraq. He served two tours in Iraq from 1998 to 2000 in the Marine Crops and 2002 to 2003 in the Army before being honorably discharged.

Financial problems combined with post-war injuries and conditions have caused an increase in suicides by veterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs released data last year that showed an average of 18 veterans commit suicide each day.

Brodie has already lost three veteran friends to suicide, and said they deserved better treatment.

If the documents created by Brodie move forward, he said it would prevent economic hardships and homelessness, contributing factors to the suicide rate, he said.

Call legislators

As for his meeting with Masser, which took place on Friday just before the Memorial Day weekend, Brodie said, "It was a really good meeting and I left there feeling positive."

He said he's not had the same reception in trying to arrange a meeting with U.S. Rep. Tom Marino, R-10.

Brodie encourages those who support veterans to pick up their phones and call state and federal legislators in order to send a clear message.

"It's like a slap in the face. I'm not going to stop until this stops," he said.

Masser confirmed this meeting took place, but said it was too early in the process for him to comment.

"I'm going to be looking into it," he said.

5K race for cancer society set

COAL TOWNSHIP - Shamokin Area Relay For Life team Mighty Masser's will hold a 5k run/walk race Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at Kemp Memorial Stadium. The course will travel through the district campus. Registration starts at 8 a.m. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

MC4A scholarships available

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Area Athletic Alumni Association (MC4A) is offering Mount Carmel Area High School graduates who are presently attending an institution of higher learning (college, trade school, etc.) MC4A scholarships. Deadline to apply is July 15.

MC4A will award six $2,000 scholarships to the lucky winners of a lottery-style drawing Aug. 3 at the annual Scholarship Awards Dinner, at Mattucci's Willow Café on 4th Street in Mt. Carmel. Scholarship winners who have a parent that is a member of MC4A will be awarded $2,500.

Winners will be selected from qualified college students who have submitted an application and a higher education transcript. For an application and more information, visit www.mc4a.org or contact Dan Ficca at 373-5936. Only college students who apply will be entered into the lottery drawing.

SHAMOKIN - Shamokin City Police Department, Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Rosini and the North Central Highway Safety Network will host a training class today and Friday for area police officers in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST) to assist officers in detecting impaired drivers.

The training is developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 1981, NHTSA began SFST training for police officers. SFST is a scientifically validated standardized training that police officers throughout the United States use to determine if a motorist is operating impaired.

The training will be conducted at Shamokin Police Department and will involve officers from various Northumberland County police departments.

David R. Everly, regional coordinator for the North Central Regional DUI Enforcement Program in Pottsville, said the training is being held to better equip police officers with the tools needed to remove impaired drivers from highways.

The United States Department of Transportation reported 10,839 fatalities occurred in 2009 in impaired driving crashes throughout the country. PennDOT reported 449 fatalities occurred in 2009 on Pennsylvania roadways.

RANSHAW - Got a favorite house plant you would like to share or exchange with a friend or neighbor?

You can do so at the annual Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Plant Exchange at Rock-N-Block Materials Inc., Route 901, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. The event gives plant lovers and those with green thumbs the opportunity to share their plants, along with ideas and information on plants, gardening and landscaping in general.

The chamber uses the event as part of its efforts to enhance and beautify homes in the region.

Linda Morgante, owner of Rock-N-Block, said she's excited to host the event.

"We can share our knowledge and expertise with those attending as we also clearly demonstrate our support for the region and the chamber," she said.

The event will also have refreshments, including hot dogs, pizza in an outdoor brick pizza oven, a bake sale to benefit Silvio, a 3-year-old dog battling cancer, and soda, plus tours of the grounds. There will be a live radio remote sponsored by Clear Channel Radio and the chamber, with Joe Daniels/D'Andrea, who works for the radio station but is also chamber president, as DJ.

For more information call the chamber office at 648-4675 or visit www.brushvalleychamber.com.

Other events

Other local events this weekend include:

- The Mighty Masser 5K Run/Walk, which will be held Saturday at Kemp Memorial Stadium, Coal Township. Registration is at 8 a.m. and the race starts at 9:30 a.m. Entry fee is $20. Register online at www.raceforum.com/mightymasser. Music and refreshments will be available following the race. For more information, call Joe Alexander at 644-1499.

- Our Lady of Hope Church, Coal Township, has its two-day summer festival scheduled for Friday and Saturday, while Wilburton No. 1 Fire Company has scheduled its annual block party for the same days.

- On Sunday, there will be a Relay for Life Zumba fundraiser from 1 to 4 p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. For more information, call Danielle at 259-4543 or Laura at 648-2544.

IRISH VALLEY - The Clark's Grove United Methodist Church will begin their second annual "Music in the Valley" concert series today. The church sponsors the free concerts as a community outreach project.

Concerts will also be held at 7:00 p.m. June 9 and 16 at the church, which is located on Irish Valley Road. Weather permitting, the concerts will be held outdoors. Guests are asked to bring a chair.

Performing today is guitarist and singer-songwriter Tim Krebs, who will perform a variety of acoustic, gospel and classic rock music. He has previously entertained at several local clubs.

On June 9, guests will be entertained by the piano music of Bonny Klinger, Christine Ensinger and Galen Deibler. Klinger is a local music teacher and accompanist. Ensinger, who holds a master's degree in music theory and has directed shows in Europe, is a church music director. Deibler is a retired piano professor from Susquehanna University. They will combine their talents to perform sacred, classical and contemporary piano music on a newly refurbished Kawai grand piano.

On June 16, the Vic Boris trio, consisting of Vic Boris, Rob Ensinger and Todd Egger, will provide a variety of musical entertainment for attendees.

WILKES-BARRE - A federal judge sentenced two former Shenandoah police officers to prison Wednesday, telling them their friendships in the close-knit borough compromised their work in the investigation of an illegal immigrant's beating death.

U.S. District Judge A. Richard Caputo ordered former police Chief Matthew Nestor to serve 13 months in federal prison for filing a false police report. He then sentenced former Lt. William Moyer to three months in jail for lying to the FBI.

Federal prosecutors had accused Nestor, Moyer and another officer of conspiring to cover up the July 2008 beating death of Luis Ramirez, 25, who died days after an alleged racially motivated attack by a group of white teenagers known to the officers.

"In a close-knit community like this, you have loyalties, allegiances and alliances," Caputo said. "This is a test for all people in law enforcement."

During their chance to address Caputo, both men professed their innocence and vowed to appeal. Nestor's attorney went as far to call the government's case "nonsense."

While Caputo sentenced Nestor to more than a year in prison, he deviated sharply from the federal sentencing guidelines, which called for a standard prison range of 57 to 71 months. Caputo said he believed the guidelines were "overly harsh."

Two of Ramirez's assailants, 21-year-old Derrick Donchak and 19-year-old Brandon Piekarsky, were convicted of a federal hate crime and are serving nine-year prison sentences. Prior to the federal charges against them, they were acquitted of the most serious charges at a Schuylkill County trial. Federal prosecutors have maintained the acquittals stemmed from purposely botched police work.

Nestor's initial police report failed to note the identities of the suspects and omitted the fact that he had numerous phone conversations with one of the defendants' mothers, Tammy Piekarsky, in the hours after Ramirez was attacked, authorities said.

"He was aware the report would mislead," said Department of Justice Attorney Myesha Braden, who noted Tammy Piekarsky was an unindicted co-conspirator. "He undermined the system of justice."

Nestor's attorney Joseph Nahas called the government's case "nonsense" and said any omissions in the initial report had no bearing on how the investigation unfolded.

"What Matthew Nestor allegedly did, how did it obstruct a federal investigation? Everybody knew who they were. They (the names) weren't there, but it didn't obstruct justice," Nahas said.

Nahas noted Nestor was at a bar the night the Ramirez incident occurred and almost immediately called the district attorney's office to investigate with his on-duty officers.

"How does a man obstruct justice when he's calling outside agencies for help?" Nahas asked.

In addressing Caputo, Nestor said, "I did not sit down with criminal intentions. I set out to write a concise, informative police report on what I did, what I saw, and what I heard. Never in my wildest imagination did I sit down and say, 'Maybe the FBI is going to get involved and I need to help these boys out.'"

While leaving court, Nestor said he respected Caputo's sentence and would appeal his conviction to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals.

Moyer's conviction of lying to the FBI relates to his encounter with a man as the Ramirez beating was unfolding nearby. Police had said the two officers on duty had simultaneous reports of a fight and of a man with a gun and they initially expended efforts to find the man with a gun, not knowing if the cases were related. Moyer had initially told the FBI that, immediately upon arrival, the witness, Edward Ney, told him there was a man chasing people with a gun in the area, prosecutors said. Prosecutors say a 911 tape of the encounter does not include Ney saying anything about a man with a gun. Once confronted, Moyer later changed his story and said Ney told him about the man with a gun once he was placed in a police cruiser, prosecutors said. Ney acknowledged in court proceedings he did, at some point that night, tell police he saw a man with a gun and police later located a BB gun near the scene.

"That's it. That's all I was convicted of," Moyer said Wednesday.

Moyer explained that when the FBI asked him when Ney mentioned a man with a gun, he must have said "when he came running up to the car."

"Here, it was 15 seconds after he came running up to the car. He said it to us after he hung up on the 911 tape," Moyer said.

Ney has testified the officers did not seem interested in trying to track down the suspects in the beating, and Moyer's lie about the interaction was proof, prosecutors said.

"This is a serious offense," Braden said. "If you are not going to tell the truth, say nothing."

Caputo ordered Nestor and Moyer to report to federal prison on June 29, denying their motions to remain free on bail, pending the appeals.

"Naturally, I'm not pleased, but I did not lie," Moyer said. "I fully cooperated with them. We'll see what happens down the road, so I can clear my name."

Federal prosecutors declined to comment after sentencing.

Nestor faced a maximum of 20 years in prison, while Moyer faced a five-year maximum.

Nestor and Moyer were convicted of one charge each after a 13-day trial in January. In that trial, Nestor was acquitted of a charge of conspiracy. Moyer was acquitted of four charges - falsifying a police report, concealing evidence, obstructing justice and conspiracy. A third officer, Jason Hayes, the boyfriend of Tammy Piekarsky, was acquitted of the two charges against him.

In an unrelated case last month, Nestor and a fourth officer were acquitted of civil rights and obstruction counts after being accused of extorting money from bookmakers running illegal gambling operations.

bkalinowski@citizensvoice.com, 570-821-2055

MOUNT CARMEL - Although no longer in use, the Holy Cross Church, School and Convent in Mount Carmel still stand as they did when Mother Maria Kaupas started her journey toward sainthood there almost a century ago.

Approximately at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 3, representatives of The Sisters of St. Casimir will visit the site where Mother Maria Kaupas began her religious obligations as a member of the congregation of Holy Cross Parish. Representing the sisterhood will be Sister M. Immacula Wendt, General Superior of the Sisters of St. Casimir; Sister Margaret Petcavage, Vice Postulator for the Cause of Venerable Maria Kaupas; Sister M. Lourdine Ramoska; and Sister Therese Banach.

The Sisters will stop to see the sites where one of their founding sister once lived, taught, and worshiped. They will then head to Kulpmont to meet with former parishioners of Holy Cross Church and representatives of the Mother Pauline Visitainer Center.

The center's committee members recently donated a section of the center to be use to honor Mother Maria Kaupaus, where various artifacts are on display, including an 18-foot cross that was originally in the Holy Cross Church. Mother Pauline was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2002. Her cousins, Lou and Al Visitainer, helped establish the center in Kulpmont.

In 1907, Mother Maria completed her religious training to become a nun in Scranton, and founded the first Lithuanian Sisterhood, The Sisters of St. Casimir, in the United States. Upon completion of her training, she relocated to Holy Cross Church in Mount Carmel, where she aided in establishing its school and maintaining the church. The order later moved to Chicago, where she continued to serve as the Superior General. In 1940, Mother Maria died of cancer, and in 1943, the Archbishop of Chicago began the process for her to be considered for sainthood. On July 1, 2010 Pope Benedict XVI recognized the heroic virtues of Mother Maria Kaupas, which placed her on the road to beatification and sainthood.

Mother Maria not only founded the sisterhood in the United States, but also in Lithuania as well. In 1933, the government of Lithuania bestowed its highest decoration, the Order of the Grand Duke Gediminas, upon Mother Maria in recognition of her work in both in the United States and her native country.

Since Mother Maria is a prime example of the Lithuanian immigrant's influence on the area's communities, also attending the festivities on Friday will be Brigadier General Frank Sullivan of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, who oversees the partnership between the Pennsylvania National Guard and the Lithuanian Military.

by justin strawser

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Northumberland County Planning Commission wants everyone to put on their walking shoes this weekend and take a hike through the proposed Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area as part of 2011 National Trails Day.

"We want to showcase what potential this property has, to get out among nature, to develop healthy lifestyles and to enjoy what's in our area," said Kathy Jeremiah, grants manager for the planning department.

The county is partnering with Phoenix Rehabilitation and Health Services Inc., Shamokin, to organize the 3.2-mile walk through county land between Burnside and Gowen City on Saturday. The event will start at the proposed trailhead, which is along Route 125 near the top of the Burnside Mountain on the Shamokin side.

The reclaimed area being used is "beautiful," said Jeremiah, and includes a pond and an open area among a grove of pine trees.

"When people come out on this walk, they'll see different types of terrain," she said.

Jeremiah said she is attempting to have Boy Scouts at the registration area and other spots along the journey to hand out water to the participants. Saturday's forecast if for partly sunny skies and a high temperature in the 70s.

Registration is at 9 a.m. and the walk begins at 10 a.m. It's free to register, and the first 100 to sign up will be given a free goodie bag. Several vendors will have giveaways. To register, call 988-4220, extension 4119.

As of Wednesday, Jeremiah said approximately 50 people have signed up, but she expects more before the weekend.

The Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area is still in its initial planning stages. The last public meeting, which will reveal the final master plan, will be scheduled this summer.

It is believed it will be an economic boon for the area in attracting riders from up and down the East Coast who will spend their money at restaurants, gas stations and other businesses while in the area, and will result in the reclamation of blighted land. They also cite the existence of a new ATV sales and repair business that opened in 2010 in Trevorton. Meanwhile, others are concerned about losing a free county-owned outdoor resource, and neighbors are worried about noise, dust and traffic problems.

SHAMOKIN - Residents of the Harold E. Thomas High Rise will have things a little easier when they want some fresh air in their rooms thanks to a window replacement project.

The Shamokin Housing Authority, the entity that operates the facility at Sunbury (Route 61) and Dewart streets, will replace approximately 240 windows, most of which have been in place since 1987, in a project estimated at $151,833.

The new windows are a combination of aluminum framing and wood, similar to windows installed as part of an expansion project at the building in 2005.

"The new fixtures have a lift ratio of about 5 pounds to the user and can tilt out for ease of cleaning," Miller said.

It's difficult for residents to lift and clean the current windows, which also aren't very energy efficient, he said.

Member abstains

The winning bid, selected at a special meeting of the authority on May 9, was submitted by R.C. Rhoades Contracting, owned by Shamokin City Councilman R. Craig Rhoades, which won out over nine other companies.

Rhoades is also a former member of the authority board and his wife, Carmella S. Rhoades, currently sits on the board.

Miller said Craig Rhoades followed the bidding rules to the letter, and deserved the same opportunity as any other contractor.

"He came in, picked up a bid specs package and submitted a proposal like everyone else," Miller said.

To make sure there were no other problems, Miller contacted the U.S. Office of Housing and Urban Development.

"Just because a relative sits on the board in a non-compensated position doesn't mean we can restrict him from bidding on it," he said.

The bids had been opened at the authority's April 28 meeting and all were immediately turned over to the authority's architectural firm, which tabulated and studied the proposals. At the May 9 meeting, the firm gave its recommendation to award the contract to Craig Rhoades' firm.

Miller said Carmella Rhoades did not participate in the board's discussion, and the bid was awarded by a 4-0-1 vote with her abstention.

In the composite windows selected for the project, Rhoades was the lowest bidder by approximately $20,000. The next highest was from Redstone Co., Wapwallopen, which bid $171,000, and the others ranged from $199,000 to $293,794.

On the proposals for vinyl windows, two companies, Atlantic Coast Window and Doors and Window World, were lower at $96,315 and $97,900, respectively, to Rhoades' $113,702.68

Just the first step

Despite the bid approval, construction won't start anytime soon, Miller said.

"We need to get clearances and insurance letters for the project, not to mention making arrangements with the manufacturer for the windows, and then get installation times," he said. "This was just step one of the process."

STATE COLLEGE - Phil Rathosky, a 2007 graduate of Mount Carmel Area Junior-Senior High School, has been named to the dean's list at Pennsylvania State University in State College. He achieved a 3.61 GPA for the spring 2011 semester.

At Penn State, Rathosky serves on the regional board of directors for the Central Atlantic Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls and was recently inducted into the Archousai Chapter of the National Mortar Board Honor Society (Pi Sigma Alpha). He is serving his second term as president of the Nittany Chapter of the National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH), and sat on the National Committee for NRHH Standards. He currently bartends at The Atherton Hotel and works as a staff assistant in the Office of Residence Life.

He was among the top few students at The Pennsylvania State University to be tapped for membership in Mortar Board, a prominent national honor society for college seniors. He has been honored as a recipient of the NRHH bronze and outstanding leadership and service pins.

Rathosky is a son of Susan and Harry Rathosky, of Mount Carmel.

Rathosky is majoring in psychology and minoring in education policy studies. Upon graduation, he plans to attend graduate school to study student affairs or educational leadership and administration.

Nicole Schnaufer recently graduated cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor of science degree in nursing. She was a member of the Nursing Student Association and the Student Alumni Association. She was also captain of the intermural volleyball club.

Schnaufer has accepted a position at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh in the neonatal intensive care unit.

A 2007 graduate of Southern Columbia High School, she is the daughter of Lynn and Barbara Schnaufer, of Overlook.

CATAWISSA - Southern Columbia Area High School held its annual awards program honoring senior scholars on Wednesday, May 25. The following students were award winners:

Elysburg Rotary Club Service Above Self Award, Erin Eichen; Jane Quinton Memorial Scholarship Award for nursing, Jacob Townsend, and music, Nicholas Cove; Stephen G. Talarovich Memorial Scholarship, Timothy Benner; Catawissa Garden Club Rae Atherton Memorial Scholarship, Sarah Yeager; Locust Township Police Officers Association, Brian Watkins; Hospice Memorial Nursing Scholarship, Sara Raup; S.C.E.A. Tiger Paw Scholarship, Molly Carl, Katelyn Madara, Taylor Shutt, and Jessica Fink; National Honor Society Award, Alex Sassani; American Red Cross Life Share Award, Rebecca Bryden; Environmental Award, Timothy Benner; Independent Study Student of the Year, sponsored by the Meyers Family, Aleaha Jones and Sarah Yeager; PEO Scholarship, Rebecca Bryden; Cleveland Pork, Inc., Matthew Hoffman; Roaring Creek Valley Grange Award, JoEllen Blass and Ethan Snyder; The Foundation of the Columbia- Montour Chamber of Commerce Scholarship, Jacob Townsend and Mackenzie Silver; Outstanding Visual Arts Awards, Janessa Nichols and Rebecca Bryden; Marilyn Henry Memorial Scholarship, Michael Moore and Ethan Snyder; Jeldwen Scholarship, Sara Raup.

The Carissa Berkheisser Memorial Scholarships, Jeremy Berkheiser; Ralpho Township Alumni/Alvin Pensyl Memorial, Kathryn Springer, Sarah Yeager, and Alex Sassani; Ralpho Area Women's Club, Erin Eichen; Elysburg Garden Club, Taylor Toczylousky; Catawissa American Legion ladies Auxiliary Scholarship, Rebecca Bryden; Sons of Catawissa American Legion Post 541 Scholarship, Brett Duell; Catawissa American Legion Post 541 Scholarship, Alex Sassani; Dennis Haladay Memorial Scholarship Award presented by Catawissa American Legion, Kurt Henri; First Columbia Bank and Trust Co., Sarah Yeager; Ralpho Township Business Association Award, Taylor Shutt; Anthony A. Abraczinskas Jr. Memorial Scholarship, Matthew Hoffman, JoEllen Blass, Jacob Townsend, Sarah Cotter, Katelyn Madara, and Taylor Rhodes; Shoup Family Scholarship, Taylor Rhodes; FBLA Award, Aleaha Jones; Veterans of Foreign Wars Catawissa Post 8306, Renee Rhoades, amd Erin Eichen; Catawissa VFW Voice of Democracy Essay Award, first place, Brad Fegley, second place, Anudeep Alberts, and third place, Gwen Bodner; Regina Huber Scholarship VFW Post 8306 Ladies Auxiliary, Tessa Haas; Derek Crowl Academic Memorial Scholarship, Jacob Martin, and Ian Stout.

Calvin Henderson Memorial Award, Jordan Marks; Joseph Makowski Memorial Scholarship, Taylor Rhodes; Bloomsburg Elks Past Exalted Rulers Scholarship, Alexandra Oley; Bloomsburg Elks Albert W. & Ruth E. Warhurst Scholarship, Ashley Roberts; Terry Stellfox Academic/Athletic Scholarship, JoEllen Blass; Terry Stellfox Music Award, Aleaha Jones; Fleming's Nursery Award, Timothy Benner; Aqua PA Water Co., Roaring Creek Div. Science Achievement Award, Brett Duell; William E. Hoffner Post Secondary Education Award, Joshua Wells; Central Susquehanna Sight Services Mildred Z. Smith Scholarship, Alex Sassani; Janette Matthews Memorial Scholarship Award, Emily Yoder; Annonymous Values and Character Award, Kurt Henrie; Northumberland Count Recreation Committee Scholar/Athlete, Erin Eichen, and Alex Sassani; Twelfth Grade Technology Education Achievement Award, Brian Watkins; David Walburn Memorial Scholarship, Brian Watkins; The Justin DeGreen Memorial Scholarship Fund, Matthew Hoffman; The TV Production Award in Honor of Brent Kelchner, Alex Sassani; The Sandy Rarig Language Award. Gwendolyn Bodner.

Southern Columbia Perfect Attendance for the Year: Ninth grade, Reba Broadfield, Jensen Kremser, and Erin Yoder; grade 10, Deena Bigelow, Anthony Chiavaroli, Andrew Sassani, Shawn Sevision, and Tasha Tasker; grade 11, Anudeep Alberts, Andrew Jessick, and Caitlyn Mack; and grade 12, Desirae Buxton.

John D, Hughes Memorial Scholarship, Alexa Marinelli; Margaret E. Artley Memorial Scholarship, Kathryn Springer; SCA Music Booster Scholarship, Nicholas Cove, Taylor Rhodes, Aleaha Jones, and Katelyn Madara; The Eric Bernes Memorial Scholarship Award, Timothy Benner and Logen Mensinger; Tarik Leghlid Memorial Scholarship, Kurt Henrie; Boys Soccer Booster Scholarship, Lindsey Clark; Boys Soccer Booster Scholarship, Dante Anskis and Grant Rarig; Boys Basketball Booster Scholarship, Zachary Malett; Ronald Scott Kohler Memorial Scholarship, Brian Watkins; District IV Female Sportsmanship Award, Mackenzie Silver; District IV Male Sportsmanship, Zachary Malett; District IV Outstanding Female Athlete, Alexandra Oley; District IV Outstanding Male Athlete, Jacob Townsend; SCA Female MVP, Jordan Marks; and SCA Male MVP, Jacob Morton.Larry Deklinski/Staff Photo

SHAMOKIN - Central Susquehanna Opportunities (CSO) Inc. has partnered with AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America) for the last three years working to better the lives of people living in poverty in the area. VISTA representatives assigned to CSO are working in a number of areas:

- The VITA program, which is the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, did very well, with 688 returns completed amounting to $824,891 in federal, state and local refunds thanks to VISTA Steven Slusser and the 12 volunteers he recruited for the program.

- As marketing and outreach coordinator, Melissa Hunter, the other CSO VISTA, was charged with the task of building a bridge between CSO and the community. Hunter also started a project called Cover Our Kids, where she collected and distributed more than $2,400 in winter wear items in the community with the help of 43 volunteers.

AmeriCorps VISTA is the national service program designed specifically to fight poverty. Founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965 and incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993, VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for more than 40 years.

VISTA members commit to serve full-time for a year at a nonprofit organization or local government agency, working to fight illiteracy, improve health services, create businesses, strengthen community groups and more. They use passion, commitment and hard work to bring individuals and communities out of poverty.

This will be Hunter's last year as an AmeriCorps VISTA; she has finished her third and final year as a member. The organization will have Slusser returning as VITA coordinator next year.

Also, the organization is looking for a VISTA to work with financial literacy; any interested individual can apply at www.americorp.com. For more information, call 644-6575, extension 135.

CSO is a regional, private, non-profit, community-based, charitable organization that is dedicated to helping people make positive changes in their lives. CSO delivers Workforce Development services in the Central Region Workforce Investment Area and provides community action initiatives.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Christopher J. Brokus and Tesia E. Laskoski, 2011 graduates, were named to the Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School 700 Club for attaining a score of 700 or more in the Critical Reading, Math or Writing section of the SAT.

Scores for each section range from 200 to 800.

Tesia will be attending Temple University to major in psychology. She is a daughter of Mark and Karen Laskoski, Shamokin.

Christopher, the class valedictorian, will be attending Dickinson College to major in international studies and environmental science, and is the son of Joseph and Judy Brokus, Elysburg.

He also received a certificate of merit from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency for SAT scores among the 5,000 highest in Pennsylvania. On average, more than 104,000 students take SAT tests in Pennsylvania.

On Monday, a PennDOT contractor will begin a bridge preservation contract that involves deck treatments on 23 bridges spread across Northumberland County.

At each site, Eastern Industries Inc. will remove the existing blacktop, place a waterproof membrane on the concrete deck and then resurface it with new blacktop.

Work will be done at SR 3010 (Schwaben Creek Road) over Mouse Creek in Red Cross; SR 3016 (Urban Road) over a tributary to Mouse Creek in Urban; SR 3016 (Urban Road) over a tributary to Mouse Creek one-quarter mile east of Urban; SR 3024 (Mahantango Creek Road) over Deppen Run one mile east of Malta; SR 4019 (Dornsife Mountain Road) over a tributary to Little Mahanoy Creek one-half mile north of Dornsife, and SR 4020 (Hallowing Run Road) over Hallowing Run in Lower Augusta Township, one-half mile north of the intersection with SR 147.

Traffic will be restricted to a single lane.

Inclement weather will affect the schedule.

PORT CLINTON - A 28-year-old Reading man died while swimming Wednesday near a cliff known as "The Rock" in West Brunswick Township along the Schuylkill River.

State police at Schuylkill Haven said Jason Lamont Morris, 1548 Cotton St., jumped into the Schuylkill River about 5:35 p.m.

"Within five minutes after he dove off (the cliff), he was under," said Trooper Chad Smith of the Schuylkill Haven station. There is a smaller rock - about 20 feet from the water - and a larger rock - about 50 feet from the water- at the site. Morris dove off the smaller rock, Smith said.

Morris' body was found in "about 12 feet of water" at 6:53 p.m., Smith said.

Troopers said Morris was pulled from the water by the Schuylkill Haven Dive Rescue and Recovery Team about 30 yards east from where he entered the water. Support Personnel Wayne Merkel said 15 to 20 people from the team responded to the scene, and that there were about eight divers split into teams.

Hamburg Fire Chief Troy Hatt, who was in charge of the scene, said fatalities like Morris' could be avoided.

"We go through this every year. They can change that. They don't need to come here. They don't need to put their lives in jeopardy by coming here," he said. "Where there is no lifeguards, nobody there for safety, you should not be in there swimming. It's not safe. The waters are unpredictable."

Hatt said the current was moving about 3 to 4 mph, and that because of recent rainfall, the water was higher than normal.

The surface water temperature was 78 degrees and it was 72 degrees on the bottom, he said.

Kaitlyn Hostetter and Kacy Charlesworth, both of Pottsville, were swimming at the site and were told about 6 p.m. that they needed to get out of the area.

"All we heard was that someone was in the water and we needed to go," Hostetter said.

They were not near the rock when the incident occurred, but they knew something was wrong when they heard ambulance sirens. Even though Hostetter said she knew the area was dangerous, she still wanted to check it out. Wednesday was her fourth time at the Rock, and it might be her last.

"I don't know if I ever want to come back out here," she said.

Blue Mountain Road, which leads to the Rock, was blocked for hours while rescuers were at the scene.

There were eight people at the scene waiting for news about Morris. A woman hugged a man after she arrived.

Responding to scene were Union Fire Company No. 1, Hamburg, Shoemakersville Fire Company, Port Clinton Fire Company No. 1, Hamburg EMS, the Schuylkill Haven Dive Rescue and Recovery Team, the Reading City Dive Team and the Western Berks Machine Units.

Joshua Hart and Scott Clews, representatives with the Schuylkill County Coroner's Office, arrived at the scene at 8:12 p.m.

State owned, off limits

The Kernsville Dam and surrounding property is state-owned and monitored by the state Department of Environmental Protection.

When the weather warms up, the quiet spot turns into a beach destination for those seeking a free spot to swim and party, DEP spokesman Tom Rathbun said previously, according to Republican-Herald archives.

DEP posted an emergency access gate and "no swimming" signs after a 2006 drowning at the site; those who are caught swimming could be cited for criminal trespass, which can mean penalties and fines of up to $250, according to the archives.

The area, located in West Brunswick Township, falls under the law enforcement jurisdiction of state police at Schuylkill Haven, and troopers routinely patrol the area.

But according to state police, it is a problem to cover because it is isolated and difficult to enforce.

In August 2009, Raphael Montiro, 32, of Reading, drowned while swimming in the area.

On July 10, 2006, Fabio Enrique Sanchez-Paulino, 23, of Reading, drowned after jumping off the Rock into the river.

Two days later, rescue personnel were again called to the same location when a woman injured her back while diving off the cliff.

State police, DEP and Pennsylvania Fish and Game officials periodically collaborate on full-scale undercover operations at the Rock.

Street to be closed for celebration

MOUNT CARMEL - Borough police have announced several streets will be closed for Saturday's Celebration of Special Athletes at the MCA Silver Bowl stadium.

Due to stadium construction, the stadium's east gate will be used. Birch Street from Second to Third streets will be closed to traffic, along with Second Street and Olive Street from Willow to Birch. Local traffic only will be permitted.

Paving schedule announced

COAL TOWNSHIP - Doli Construction has announced its blacktopping schedule for next week as part of the Shamokin-Coal Township Joint Sewer Authority project.

On Monday, paving will be done on Wabash Street from Howard to Meade Street, with no parking on either side. On Tuesday, Hemlock Street will be paved from Howard to Meade Street, with no parking on either side. On Wednesday and Thursday, Pulaski Avenue from Chemung to Thomas streets will be paved, with no parking on either side.

SAT tests at Shamokin Area

COAL TOWNSHIP - The SAT Reasoning and the SAT Subject Tests will be administered to pre-registered candidates Saturday at the Shamokin Area Middle/High School. Check-in and room assignment will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the auditorium lobby for individuals who bring all required admissions documents and materials. All candidates must present photo/signature identification or an official letter of identification on school letterhead signed by either the school's principal or school's counselor.

Students should consult their Registration Bulletin or www.collegeboard.com for additional information regarding test-day procedures.

The doors to the test center will close at 8 a.m. Candidates are reminded to park their vehicles in either of the side parking lots. Travel arrangements should be confirmed prior to the test date, and candidates are reminded that cell phones are not permitted in the test center.

PAXINOS - The Shamokin Area High School Alumni Association met Saturday, May 28, for the 128th annual reunion at Masser's Banquet Hall.

Charmaine Tetkoskie, '82, president, welcomed those in attendance and called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Invocation was by Shirley Fisher Jackson, '51. Pledge of Allegiance and "God Bless America" were led by Irvin Liachowitz, '42, accompanist.

The Shamokin Area High School students presented numbers from the musical "Little House of Horrors," directed by Rachel F.W. Ulsh, while alumni dined.

Officers and guests introduced at the business meeting by Tetkoskie. A moment of silent prayer was held in memory of deceased alumni members.

Secretary's report by Jackson was moved for approval by Jim Latshaw, '56, seconded by John Shankweiler, '53, and was unanimous. Treasurer's report by William Korbich, '54, was moved for approval by Bob Karr, '54, seconded by Joe Haddock, '74, and was unanimous.

Tetkoskie recognized the class of 2011 and received the banner from class president, Kendra Maschuck.

Prize drawings were held with the students assisting Mary Anne Pitorak Miller, '74, in delivering gifts to the winners.

H. Robert Mattis, '68, vice president, recognized the anniversary classes and their donations as follows:

- Five Year: Class of 2006.

- 10 Year: Class of 2001.

- 15 Year: Class of 1996 ($25 to educational fund).

- 20 Year: Class of 1991.

- 30 Year: Class of 1981 ($300 to general fund; $250 to educational fund).

- 35 Year: Class of 1976.

- 40 Year: Class of 1971 ($200 to educational fund).

- 45 Year: Class of 1966 (previous donations).

- 55 Year: Class of 1956 (previous donations).

- 60 Year: Class of 1951 ($2,500 to general fund; $2,500 to educational fund).

- 65 Year: Class of 1946 ($831 to general fund; $255 to educational fund).

- 70 Year: Class of 1941 ($500 to scholarship fund)

- 75 Year: Class of 1936 ($l,956 to be used at treasurer's discretion).

- 80 Year: Class of 1931 (previous donations).

- Silver Anniversary: Class of 1986 (previous donations).

- Golden Anniversary: Class of 1961 ($12,000 to scholarship fund).

- Diamond Anniversary: Class of 1936 ($618 to general fund; $610 to scholarship fund).

Mattis also acknowledged the presence of Millie Bixler Sharp, '31, and gave her the class flowers in colors from her class. She had been his second grade teacher. Mention was also made that Sara Neidig Zerby, who had attended 68 consecutive alumni association gatherings, had planned to attend this one but had fallen and was in the hospital.

Tetkoskie reminded the Golden Anniversary Class that they would receive a gift from the SAHS Alumni Association. She also recognized the past presidents of the Alumni Association as well as those present who were veterans.

Mattis also named the distance award winner as Joseph J. Shecora, '49, from San Diago, Calif.

Liachowitz presented the Alumni Scholarship Awards. Thirty-four students took the test. Congratulations were extended to all. Recipients and awards are presented from both Shamokin Area Alumni Association and Coal Township Alumni Association. Recipients of the Coal Townships awards were invited to attend the Coal Township Banquet in the same location Sunday evening.

- Coal Township, $3,000, Eric Shultz, Penn State University, Broadcast Journalism.

- Shamokin Area, $2,700, Patrick Erickson, University of Pittsburgh, Pharmacy.

- Coal Township, $2,500, Christina Coller, Shippensburg University, Forensic Psychology.

- Shamokin Area, $2,200, Blake Sandri, Bloomsburg University, Accounting.

- Coal Township, $2,000, Dylan Dombroski, Kutztown University, Psychology.

- Coal Township, $2,000, Timothy Huxta, Misericordia, Psychology.

- Coal Township, $2,000, Madeline Shappell, Messiah College, Broadcasting.

- Shamokin Area, $1,900, Kasi Ristine, West Chester University, Music Education.

- Shamokin Area, $1,700, Cassidy Coveleski, Lycoming University, Chemistry.

- Shamokin Area, $1,500, Hannah Martin, Kutztown University, Human Kinetics.

- Shamokin Area, $1,200, Kristin Kozar, Lock Haven University, Athletic Training.

- Coal Township, $900, Casey Bradigan, Millersville University, Psychology.

Principal Chris J. Venna gave a report on the SAHS and included information on academics, athletics, music and computer technology. Congratulations on a job well done by administration, teachers, students and parents.

John Schankweiler, '53, presented for ratification three directors to the Education (Scholarship) Committee: Tom Olcese, '48, and Myron Moskowitz, '42, for five year terms and James Backes for a one year term to fill Jim Booth's, '48, term. Backes has resigned due to illness.

Ratification of officers who were nominated by the Executive Committee were Mattis, who will become president of the 129th Reunion and Maxine Howerter-Harvey, '83, who will become vice president.

Led by the senior class the school alma mater was sung by those present.

Benediction by Jackson concluded the meeting at 8:20 p.m.

After Glow followed the general meeting with music by the Vic Boris Trio. Liachowitz and Dorothy Goodman, '44, encouraged dancing and musical chairs as they judged and awarded prizes. Snacks were provided.