Street sweeper coming to Kulpmont

KULPMONT - Borough residents are reminded the street sweeper will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday on the north and south sides of Pine and Scott streets, running east and west.

Free concert by swing band

SHAMOKIN - A 17-piece swing band will perform a free concert in August, in hopes of generating interest in starting a community concert series.

Dave Spotts, promoter and member of the After Hours Big Band, said the band will play between 6 and 8 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 23, at Claude Kehler Community Park. Members live throughout the region, but have not played any public performances in the Greater Shamokin area in several years, he said.

He wants to start the series next year, but said much depends on community support.

People attending the concert are asked to bring their own chairs.

ELYSBURG - Kathryn Fox, of Elysburg, has earned her doctorate of physical therapy at Misericordia University, Dallas, Pa.

She has worked at Central Penn Physical Therapy in Ashland, Shamokin and Elysburg for several years. She also holds a bachelor's degree in health sciences and a master's degree in physical therapy, both from Misericordia University.

She is a daughter of Patricia Fox, of Elysburg, and the late Joseph Fox, a niece of Joanne Fox, of Danville, and a granddaughter of Flora Hontz, of Bloomsburg.

Marriage licenses

Michael Bernard Romanoski to Shaunna Marie Bailey, both of 642 Hillside Ave., Shamokin. Issued July 24.

Chad William Rumberger to Ashley Sabo, both of 1008 W. Walnut St., Coal Township. Issued July 25.

Kyle Allen Stiely to Rebekah Mae Witmer, both of 150 Derl Road, Herndon. To be issued July 28.

Michael Ramel Barker, 709 W. Chestnut St., third floor, Shamokin, to Katricia Lee Smith, 707 W. Chestnut St., Apt. A, Shamokin. To be issued July 28.

John Vincent Shustack, 25 S. Peach St., Mount Carmel, to Mary Beth Goodlunas, 707 Pine St., Kulpmont. To be issued July 28.

Gary James Kozock, 212 N. Walnut St., Mount Carmel, to Debra Marie Kozock, 216 S. Locust St., Mount Carmel. To be issued July 28.

Chester J. Krepshaw Jr. to Stephanie Ann Benner, both of 151 S. Third St., Shamokin. To be issued July 28.

Property transfers

Thomas C. Valeiko, Margaret Valeiko, to Margaret Valeiko, Kevin P. Valeiko, property in Kulpmont, $1.

Thomas C. Valeiko, Margaret Valeiko, to Margaret Valeiko, Kevin P. Valeiko, property in Shamokin, $1.

Katy Dunaway to Richard K. Miller, property in Shamokin, $1.

U.S. Bank National Association to RVFM 11 Series LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $9,550.

Northumberland County Sheriff, Tara B. Moore, Keith W. Moore, to U.S. Bank NA, U.S. Bank National Association, property in Shamokin, $1,751.33.

Richard Daya, Mary Louise Whalen, Donald L. Whalen, to Richard Daya, property in Kulpmont, $1.

William Puketza Jr. (estate), Karen A. Katinsky (executrix), to John Koschoff, Clement J. Plisiewicz, property in Mount Carmel, $17,000.

Jessica Hoff to Jess R. Lubereski, property in Coal Township, $1.

Carol Whary to Disposal Management Services Inc., property in Zerbe Township, $1.

Rodger L. Willimas, Debra Dianne Willimas, to Joseph W. Knapick, property in Shamokin, $1.

Daniel Zlockie, Jeanine A. Zlockie, to Susan Cimino, property in Mount Carmel Township, $59,000.

Donna J. Deitrick, Donna J. Yoncuski, to Patrick James Brady Jr., property in Shamokin, $6,200.

Gu Leroy to Michael Paul Dembrosky, property in West Cameron Township, $30,000.

Beneficial Consumer Discount Company (by agent), Fact Caliber Home Loans Inc. (agent), to LSF8 Master Participation Trust, property in Coal Township, $10.

U.S. Bank Trust NA (TR), LSF8 Master Participation Trust (by trustee and by agent), Fact Caliber Home Loans Inc. (agent), to Isadore Poliniak, Nancy Poliniak, property in Coal Township, $20,000.

Blevins E. Ford III, Michelle M. Ford, Donna M. Ford, Donna M. Joseph-Ford, to Joseph R. Jeffrey, Tracey Williard, property in Coal Township, $8,000.

Robert J. Slodysko to Sean M. Slodysko, property in Coal Township, $1.

Phyllis D. Deppen to Joseph R. Quinn, property in Coal Township, $1.

Roger P. Grattan to Lori Jacobs, property in Shamokin, $48,000.

Gregory F. Worhacz, Diane M. Worhacz, to Nicole M. Scicchitano, Kelly A. Stankiewicz, property in Shamokin, $1.

Spickler Farms Inc. to Kevin S. Spickler, Denise M. Spickler, property in Upper Mahanoy Township, $1.

Shawn A. Swartz to Thomas R. Biscoe, Kathleen A. Biscoe, property in Ralpho Township, $227,200.

SHAMOKIN - Two buildings destroyed by separate fires almost 18 months ago and one home on the brink of total collapse have yet to be torn down, despite efforts by city officials to have the owners raze them.

Code officer Rick Bozza said the situation is complicated because one owner has since died, one said he does not have money to raze his building, and another lives in New York and has not responded to certified letters.

Burda properties

One of the buildings destroyed by fire is 717-719 N. Shamokin St., owned by Larry Burda, who died earlier this year. Police charged James L. Neidlinger Jr., Shamokin, with starting that and other fires in the city, and he was sentenced to time in state prison after pleading no contest in connection with the arsons.

Burda left behind not only the partially demolished building, but at least 10 others in the Shamokin area, many of which have been, or are, in violation of city code.

One is 701-703 N. Shamokin St., a three-story brick building in the same block as 717-719. Before his death, Burda was found guilty of 36 code and nuisance ordinance violations involving the property.

Bozza said he is unsure who owns the buildings now because Burda did not have a will, and there are conflicting statements from a relative of Burda's, who lives out of state, and a holding company.

Hardshell Cafe

Two other buildings destroyed in the Neidlinger arson cases were the former Hardshell Cafe, 422 N. Shamokin St., owned by Stephen Bednar, of Shamokin, and an adjoining building owned by his son, Jarrod.

In February, Bozza gave them two weeks to start demolition or face citations. Jarrod Bednar had his building torn down and is in the process of backfilling the ground, but the Hardshell is still standing.

Stephen Bednar was cited three times in June because of the condition of the property. A summary trial before Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III scheduled this past Monday was continued when Bednar was granted time to create a plan to raze the building.

"He said he doesn't have the funds to tear it down to the ground," Bozza said. "We need this thing down ASAP."

Warrant issued

Regarded as one of the most dangerous properties in Shamokin is 625-627 E. Commerce St., which has already partially collapsed. Jhoel Leonardo, of 13201 95th St., South Richmond Hill, Queens, N.Y., has been cited more than a dozen times.

Cpl. Bryan Primerano issued a summary warrant for Leonardo Oct. 31 after he was cited a fifth time for creating a public nuisance due to the condition of the property. If no action is taken, officials will take their case to Gembic to upgrade the summary offenses to a misdemeanor charge of creating a public nuisance.

"We never heard from this guy," Bozza said. "There are more citations pending. We need to get him in the court system."

More in violation

The properties are just a few of the 51 in Shamokin that Bozza said are in violation of at least one city or state code. To combat the blight, several cases that involve more than three code tickets have been passed to Primerano, who charges such owners with misdemeanors.

More recent properties to catch Bozza's eyes are 314 and 316-318 E. Independence St., site of the former David Distributing Company and Sports Center.

Photos recently taken by Bozza show holes in sections of the roof and numerous unsecured buckets and tarps covering the roof.

A view inside from the store fronts show moldy merchandise, a sagging ceiling with dirt and debris throughout the building.

Lee Doncheski, of Elysburg, was given paperwork notifying him that he is in violation of a city ordinance and has 30 days to either demolish or bring the buildings up to code.

"There is debris, including glass, on the awning," Bozza said. "If this falls on the sidewalk, it could hurt someone."

No money

One way officials could rid the city of a hazardous property is to raze it themselves; however, Bozza said the city doesn't have the funds and is unlikely to recover the costs from a lien placed on the property.

Typically, municipalities purchase dilapidated properties for a nominal price at a Northumberland County repository sale, then use Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money to tear them down.

"The city can't use CDBG money to tear down the buildings unless they own them," Bozza said. "The city doesn't have the funds to tear down these buildings."

Shamokin was accepted in June into the Act 47 program after the state agreed it met the standards for a financially distressed community. Its application for a $1,163,500 interest-free loan is still pending. Shamokin is predicted to run out of money by mid-August, and more than $811,000 in bills from 2013 is outstanding.

ZERBE TOWNSHIP - The cleanup started early Saturday, and by noon the 30-yard roll-off Dumpster was filled to the brim with construction debris, mattresses, burned-out sofas, swimming pool liners, carpeting, beer cans, bottles, old shoes and just about anything else you could think of that was discarded at "The Flats."

Forty volunteers showed up at the cleanup, which was hosted by Reading Anthracite Company and local ATV riders. Volunteers came from as far east as Staten Island, N.Y., and as far south as Philadelphia.

"You would be surprised," Brian Dasch said of what was found. "You couldn't walk four feet without running into garbage."

Dasch was one of the cleanup organizers, along with Dennis Felty, recording secretary of the Anthracite Trail Riders organization.

The group also cleared out more than 20 fire pits across approximately 15 to 20 acres. Dasch said that volunteers removed the ready-made fire pits in hopes of discouraging people from burning on the property.

Felty said the garbage that was strewn about the property represented "years of abuse."

"We are trying to take accountability for our off-road community." Felty said, adding that the day's ground effort was "phenomenal."

Felty's son, Jonathan, owner and operator of Felty Property Maintenance, was contracted by the Reading Anthracite Company to provide two dump trucks and a skid loader that were used in the cleanup.

Felty hopes this will be a "once and done" cleanup and that with periodic security from Reading they will only have to maintain "The Flats," which is a designated parking area for riders.

"We don't want to have to do this again," he said.

Felty and Dasch expressed appreciation for the cooperation they received from Zerbe Township, the community and local businesses that contributed in one way or another to the cleanup, including Dal's Pizza, Sunoco, Dollar General, DeSantis Distributor and Dunkin Donuts in Shamokin, among others.

After the cleanup, volunteers were given a free ATV tour of Coal Hill and the surrounding Reading property.

MOUNT CARMEL - Everybody loves a parade, especially when firefighters earn their deserved turn in the spotlight.

Saturday's parade celebrating the 18th annual Picnic in the Park festivities featured firefighters, emergency medical services personnel and police from a three-county area. The emergency responders and the apparatus in which they were riding delighted a large crowd as they traveled through borough streets.

The two-mile parade and spectacular fireworks display later in the evening were among the highlights of the three-day celebration sponsored by Mount Carmel Volunteer Emergency Services Association Inc. (MCVESA) that raises funds for the borough's fire companies and local charitable organizations.

Firefighters, community officials and residents also had another reason to cheer as a housing ceremony for a new ladder truck and building rededication were held at Anthracite Steam Fire Company No. 1, located at the front of Town Park at Market and Third streets.

After the parade, an 11-foot, 8-inch 2011 KME Arielcat, which has a ladder that can extend 100 feet, was officially christened and the fire

company was blessed during a 30-minute program. The ceremony included remarks by various fire officials about Anthracite's history that dates to 1882 and the laborious process involved with housing the truck in its rightful home.

Anthracite Fire Company Secretary David Berezovske, who served as master of ceremonies, opened the program by stating, "There's been many ups and downs, twists and turns, good times and bad with this project. But it's finally all done."

In his invocation, the Rev. Frank Karwacki, pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, blessed volunteer firefighters for their dedicated service to the community.

Jim Williams Sr., captain and president of Anthracite Fire Company, and his brother, Jack Williams Jr., assistant fire chief with Anthracite, discussed the history of the company, renovations to the historic fire house and the persevering efforts of everyone involved in securing and housing the new engine.

Ashland Fire Chief Phil Groody, who has 43 years of firefighting experience, talked about the great mutual aid relationship Mount Carmel and Ashland firefighters have enjoyed over the years.

Groody compared the truck housing ceremony to welcoming a new family member.

He said the planning process and staying within budget for the new engine were difficult endeavors, but commended fire company members for overcoming setbacks in attaining their goal. Groody proudly stated, "Firefighters are the most creative people on earth. They can overcome all obstacles."

Jack Williams Jr. presented plaques of appreciation to Joseph J. Stutz III, Mount Carmel Area Rescue Squad, Mount Carmel Borough Council and Francis Latovich, a local machine shop operator, for their outstanding support with the project.

Karwacki, who was assisted by seminarian Matthew Cannon, blessed the engine and building before Anthracite Fire Company Lt. Sean Williams performed the christening ritual of smashing a bottle of champagne on the truck.

Fire company members then pushed the new engine into its quarters with company captain and MCVESA president Eric Troutman manning the wheel.

The truck was built to 2010 National Fire Protection Agency standards and, as a result, was too tall for Anthracite's original station. Anthracite officials went ahead with the purchase, knowing they would have lost $500,000 in grant money had they not purchased the $700,000 truck when they did.

After considerable debate between borough councilmen and fire company members, which included opposition to altering the unique look of the Anthracite building, Mid-Penn Engineering, Lewisburg, devised a plan to fill in the basement area below the Anthracite two-bay truck room and lower the floor by two feet.

The project, which was finally approved by council and fire company members, was delayed while workers painted and installed trim and garage doors. It also took time for the concrete to harden.

The truck, which replaced a 1980 Seagrave, went into service in November 2010 and was housed in the Mount Carmel Area Rescue Squad truck room free of charge until Oct. 26, 2013, when it was moved into the fire company.

During renovations that started July 8, 2013, Anthracite's pumper truck was housed free of charge in a garage owned by Joseph J. Stutz III at Fourth and Orange streets.

The location of the trucks in two different areas caused confusion among members at times.

In January 2013, borough council approved a resolution to loan the fire company $188,000. The 10-year loan at an annual interest rate of 1 percent helped pay off another $101,000 loan for the ladder truck, and the rest is being put toward the renovation work, which was estimated at $137,000. Anthracite put up the rest of the money for the project.

Anthracite is paying $19,780 a year on the $188,000 loan.

Kristina Baluta, treasurer of MCVESA, who organized the Picnic in the Park festivities with Troutman, was very pleased with the great weather and outstanding turnout for the event.

"It was one of our bigger crowds in recent years," Baluta said Saturday night. "The fire engine housing ceremony and rededication of the building definitely attracted more people for us and fit right into the festivities."

Baluta and Troutman thanked all the volunteers, sponsors and customers and especially commended Caterina (Scicchitano) and Gilbert Dobak and the Scicchitano family for donating the fireworks that were set off at about 10 p.m. on the Mid Valley Mountain overlooking Mount Carmel.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas - Air Force Airman Mario J. Forte graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Forte earned distinction as an honor graduate.

He is a son of John and Iris Forte, of Pomona, N.Y., and Dawn Mcfee, of Shamokin; a brother of Danielle and Frank Procida, of Brooklyn, N.Y., and Joshua, Giovanni and Janet Tebar, all of Sunbury, and a cousin of Christian Procida, of Brookyln, N.Y.

The airman is a 2008 graduate of Susan E. Wagner High School, Staten Island, N.Y.

A look at area projects in Northumberland and Columbia counties currently being planned by PennDOT District 3-0 for fiscal year 2014-15, listed by route, municipality, local reference, type of work, estimated or actual bid date and mileage.

Northumberland County

Route 54 from Riverside Borough and Rush Township, Riverside to Boyd Station, surface treatment, April 2014, 2.24 miles.

Route 54 from Ralpho to Rush Township, Boyd Station to Elysburg, resurfacing, April 2015, 5.02 miles.

Route 61, Mount Carmel Borough, Route 61 over Shamokin Creek, bridge preservation, Sept. 2014, .01 miles.

Route 61, Coal Township, Route 61 over Shamokin Creek, bridge preservation, Sept. 2014, .51 miles.

Route 61, Ralpho and Shamokin townships, Weigh Scales to Paxinos, resurfacing, April 2015, 4.53 miles.

Route 61, Mount Carmel, Fifth Street to the Columbia County line, seal coat roadway, July 2014, no mileage given.

Route 147, Upper Augusta Township, Route 147 soil slide repair, slides correction, July 2014, .04 miles.

Route 147, Jackson and Lower Mahanoy townships and Herndon Borough, State Route 3012 to Chestnut Street, resurfacing, July 2014, 1.91 miles.

Route 487, Ralpho Township, Route 487 over Shamokin Creek, bridge preservation activities, September 2014, .03 miles.

State Route 2013, Shamokin and Ralpho townships, Irish Valley Road (State Route 4026) to Route 61, resurfacing, May 2014, .87 miles.

Route 61, Mount Carmel, Route 61 to the Columbia County line, seal coat roadway, May 2014, 1.32 miles.

State Route 3003, Washington, Jordan and Jackson townships, Klingerstown Road (State Route 3016) to Route 225, seal coat roadway, May 2014, 1.53 miles.

State Route 3007, Washington, Upper Mahanoy and Jordan townships, Klingerstown Road (State Route 3016) to Schwaben Creek Road, (State Route 3010) seal coat roadway, May 2014, 2.92 miles.

State Route 4006, Upper Augusta and Rush townships, Mount Pleasant Road (T-842) to Mile Post Road, (State Route 4004), resurfacing, July 2014, 3.33 miles.

State Route 4009, Upper Augusta Township, Route 61 to State Route 4012, resurfacing, April 2015, .95 miles.

State Route 4019, Rockefeller, Lower Augusta and Little Mahanoy townships, Route 225 to Hallowing Run Road (State Route 4020), seal coat roadway, July 2014, 5.30 miles.

State Route 4020, Rockefeller and Lower Augusta Township, Route 147 to Route 890, seal coat roadway, July 2014, 5.57 miles.

State Route 4026, Rockefeller and Shamokin townships, Route 890 to Route 61, resurfacing, April 2014, 7.88 miles.

Columbia County

State Route 42, Locust Township, T-323 to Gaswell Road, resurfacing, April 2014, 1.22 miles.

State Route 2008, Locust Township, Numidia Drive (State Route 42) to Ringtown Mountain Road (State Route 2010), seal coat roadway, July 2014, 2.38 miles.

State Route 2010, Locust and Roaring Creek Township, Numidia Drive (Route 42) to Ringtown Mountain Road (State Route 2010), seal coat roadway, May 2015, 2.80 miles.

State Route 3001, Locust and Cleveland townships, Bear Gap Road (State Route 3008) to Numidia Drive (State Route 42), seal coat roadway, May 2015, 4.14 miles.

BUTLER TOWNSHIP - A couple from Cincinnati, Ohio, suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash Sunday afternoon on I-81 at the Highridge Road exit in this Schuylkill County township.

State police at Frackville reported William Danford, 35, and his passenger, Holly Danford, 36, suffered minor and moderate injuries, respectively, in the 1:25 p.m. accident near the southbound construction zone where the two lanes merge into the left lane.

Police said William Danford and a white male operating a black Acura sport utility vehicle with Pennsylvania plates became involved in a dispute. Police said Danford was in front of the SUV when its driver drove around the motorcycle to enter the exit ramp for Highridge Road. While the SUV was passing the motorcycle on the right, Danford lost control of the cycle, which fell onto its left side, causing injuries to the driver and passenger.

Police said the driver of the Acura stopped momentarily before continuing onto the off ramp and exiting the area.

Holly Danford was transported by Shenandoah Ambulance to Schuylkill Medical Center South in Pottsville. William Danford was able to drive his 2012 Harley Davidson to the hospital.

The cycle sustained minor damage.

Minersville emergency medical services personnel assisted at the scene.

State police are asking anyone who witnessed the accident or knows the identity of the male driving the Acura to contact them at 570-874-5300.

The following landlord/tenant complaints were made in magisterial district court:

Judge John Gembic III, Shamokin

n Kenneth P. Yoder Sr., of Shamokin, against Jim Boris, of Coal Township, for $4,800, filed July 23. A hearing is scheduled for Aug. 4.

n T&V Partners, of Sunbury, against Shelby Kopp and David Miller, both of Shamokin, for $1,595, filed July 23. A hearing is scheduled for Aug. 4.

n T&V Partners, of Sunbury, against Samantha Costello, of Shamokin, for $450, filed July 23. A hearing is scheduled for Aug. 4.

n David and Maria Grimes, of Danville, awarded $7,345.10 from Amber Moyle and Leonard J. Kreski, both of Coal Township, July 24 for rent and court costs.

SHAMOKIN - Plastic ducks floating down Shamokin Creek Sunday afternoon helped generate $1,600 for the Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The annual Duck Drop fundraiser and a visit by 21 "speeders" and "putt-putt" cars from the North American Railcar Operators Association (NARCOA) in the downtown district once again proved popular with young and old alike.

Whitney Fetterman, executive director for the chamber, said 400 tickets at $5 each were purchased for a chance to win prize money in the Duck Drop race. She said donations also were received.

Fetterman, Coal Township Manager Rob Slaby and Jodi Berry of M&T Bank had the honor of dropping the plastic ducks from three boxes into the Shamokin Creek from a bridge at Water and Liberty streets behind Original Italian Pizza. Most of the ducks landed safely and floated east toward Independence Fire Company, where they were rounded up in the creek by members of Shamokin Creek Restoration Alliance and other volunteers.

The first duck to reach the finish line belonged to Pat Reilley, who won $300. Eveann Shamus, whose duck came in second, was awarded $200. The third-place winning duck was purchased by Chris and Tara Venna, who received $100.

'Putt putt' cars

Prior to the 12:30 p.m. duck drop, the track cars were on display on East Independence Street from the municipal parking to the Shamokin Post Office before their private owners and other railroad buffs rode them up to "Yellow Hill" near the intersection of Routes 901 and 54 in Mount Carmel Township before returning through Shamokin on their way to Sunbury.

NARCOA sponsors similar excursions year round throughout the Susquehanna Valley and other locations.

Fetterman thanked all the volunteers who helped with the fund-raising event and especially commended prize sponsors including M&T Bank, Family Home Medical, Northumberland County Housing Authority, Olvany Insurance Agency, VNA Health System, Pam Burns and Leanne Bjorklund.

PennDOT will be undertaking some major projects locally over the next year, including bridge work on the Mount Carmel Viaduct and the resurfacing of Route 61 from Weigh Scales to Paxinos.

In their annual visit to The News-Item, District 3-0 executives discussed 50 maintenance projects they have planned for Northumberland County and 36 in Columbia County.

One of the biggest undertakings will be the Route 61 resurfacing, which will cover 4.5 miles.

"In the past, when we put the new deck on the bridge, we resurfaced the road from the hospital to Weigh Scales, and now we are just continuing the project," said Sandra Tosca, District 3-0 executive.

Bids are expected to be opened for the contract in April 2015, but the estimated cost is $2.1 million.

Bridge work

The area will also see some bridge preservation work coming on the Viaduct in Mount Carmel and near Route 61 in the Uniontown section of Coal Township and on Route 487 in Ralpho Township.

"Most of the bridge contracts that we are doing will either be epoxy overlays, which would be putting down liquid epoxy, followed by a high skid-resistant aggregate, similar to a seal coat, and that seals the bridge deck," Tosca said.

A few of the other bridges will be having some joints replacements if they are leaking, and there are a few bridge painting contracts as well, she said.

The PennDOT crew was worried about funding for this year's projects; $21 million was used this winter to help treat and clear the roads, including $2.5 million spent in Northumberland County.

Thanks to good planning and Act 89 of 2013, the transportation funding bill, assistant district executive Eric E. High breathed a little easier over the cost, since PennDOT budgeted only $13 million for this past winter.

Because the fiscal year starts in July, High said it allows the county maintenance departments to have two "summer work periods" - the first running from July to September and the second from April to June.

"We don't do all of our major work in the first period, because we wait to see if we need extra money to take care of our winter needs," High said.

Because of the extra Act 89 money, coming from raised drivers fees and the gas tax, PennDOT didn't have any worries about missing any projects in the second summer work period.

"Not only did Act 89 get us through the winter, but it helped us maintain our summer program," High said. "We are also ramping up for the coming year's projects because of the extra funding."

One project that county maintenance manager Bernie Klusman said his department will undertake will be a resurfacing of Irish Valley Road from Route 61 in Shamokin Township and Route 890 in Rockefeller Township, all 7.8 miles of it.

"We will be putting about three inches of binder on that road which will be a nice rejuvenation of the surface," Klusman said.

"This is a project that has been deferred for a number of years since we have been trying to find the funding for it," Tosca said.

County maintenance works have also started a bridge replacement project on Little Roaring Creek Road in Mayberry Township near Elysburg.

"We are replacing that bridge with a rigid box culvert, so we don't have to do anything with the stream bed," Klusman said.

When not improving roads in Northumberland County, the department is busy precasting bridge beams for other maintenance districts.

"We are about ready to cast about seven beams for District 4, Luzerne County, and just finished eight beams for Clinton County and District 2," Klusman said.

Miracles discussed at Lifetree

SHAMOKIN - The question of whether miracles are real and happening today will be discussed at Lifetree Cafe.

The program, titled "Miracles or Mere Coincidences? Does Everything Happen for a Reason?" features the filmed story of Robin Alm, a woman who believes a miracle occurred in her life. This program will provide an opportunity for those who believe they've experienced a miracle to share and explore their stories.

Admission to the 60-minute event is free. Snacks and beverages will be available.

The program will be presented from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday at 531 N. Market St.

For more information, contact Kathy Vetovich at 570-672-9346 or kvetovich@gmail.com.

HARRISBURG - State lawmakers will consider regulating the use of aerial drones to monitor hunting activities and help hunters pursue game.

The Senate weighed in on the emerging national issue last month when it unanimously approved legislation to ban use of drones to disturb and harass hunters, anglers and boaters.

But a pending House bill puts a different spin on the issue by proposing to ban hunters from using drones to spot or hunt wildlife during any big game season.

The Senate legislation is spurred by an animal rights group which announced plans last year to use drones, or remote-controlled aircraft, to record footage of hunters breaking game laws and terrorizing animals. While there are no official reports of drones being used for these purposes in Pennsylvania, bill supporters don't want to wait until hunters report harassment by drones.

Rep. Gerald Mullery (D-119) has sponsored similar legislation in the House. He thinks Pennsylvania should get ahead of the issue by banning anti-hunting drones before they appear in the skies.

The drones are noisy and can spoil recreational opportunities for law-abiding citizens by scaring away wildlife, said Mullery.

Following the Senate action, the drone issue moves to the House where Rep. Marc Gergely (D-35) drafts legislation to prohibit hunters from using drones.

"That's not hunting," said Gergely.

The catalyst for this debate, which is taking place in other states as well, is technology that's becoming more affordable.

Drones are being marketed to the hunting community.

The activist group, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), touts the use of small remote-controlled helicopters outfitted with a video camera as "hunter watchers" with the intent of recording illegal or cruel hunting practices.

PETA's action prompted several states to enact drone bans where hunter harassment is the objective.

The Senate-approved bill defines a drone as an "aircraft that is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft."

Those using unmanned aircraft to interfere with someone's lawful taking of game or wildlife would be charged with a summary offense in a first case conviction and misdemeanor for subsequent cases under the legislation sponsored by Sen. Richard Kasunic (D-32).

His measure would exempt U.S. Fish and Wildlife officers, law enforcement and military personnel from the provisions.

Using a drone to interfere with legal boating and fishing would be a summary offense in Mullery's bill. Interfering with legal hunting would be a second-degree misdemeanor under the bill.

Gergely suggested that using aerial drones violates a hunting tradition that gives an animal a fair or sporting chance to escape. Most of Pennsylvania's hunting laws are based on this tradition, he said.

"It (drones) gives hunters an unfair advantage in using modern technology in a way it was never intended to be used," said Heidi Prescott, an official with The Humane Society of the United States. The society supports the intent of Gergely's proposal and is waiting to see how the introduced bill looks.

Mullery is also interested in Gergely's bill.

Pennsylvania laws make it illegal to harass hunters, said Travis Lau, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The Senate bill would provide some more clarity, he added.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas -Air Force Airman Kyle T. Maguire graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Maguire is the son of Debra and Timothy Maguire, of Paxinos.

He is a 2013 graduate of Shamokin Area High School, Coal Township.

RIVERSIDE - Motorists are advised that a 2.2-mile micro-surfacing project on Route 54 from Riverside to Boyd Station in Northumberland County will begin this afternoon.

The contractor will work on the east end of the project today, then move to Riverside and begin working east. Work will be performed through Friday and possibly Saturday.

Beginning Thursday, work will start after 8:30 a.m. to lessen the impact on morning traffic. Work should be finished each day by late afternoon.

The road will be reduced to a single lane with flagging operations for traffic control while work is being performed. Motorists should expect delays.

Volunteers sought today

MOUNT CARMEL - Volunteers are needed to help at the Mount Carmel bike park today at 4:30 p.m. Anyone interested in lending a hand is to meet at 4:30 p.m. at the east end of Fifth Street along Route 61. If possible, bring tools to clear brush. For updates on the project, visit the Office of the Borough of Mount Carmel Mayor on Facebook.

Seminarian to speak on Mary tonight

MOUNT CARMEL - Seminarian Matthew Cannon will speak on "Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as the Perfect Disciple" at 6:30 p.m. today in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Hall, 41 S. Market St.

He will demonstrate how people can become "better disciples of Jesus by reflecting on her discipleship."

Refreshments will be served and the public is welcome.

Pool rates reduced starting Friday

SHAMOKIN - Starting Friday, admission rates at the Lawton W. Shroyer Memorial Swimming Pool will be reduced to $3 for adults, $2 for students, $1.50 for toddlers (ages 2 to 4), $2 for senior citizens and $1.50 for spectators.

OLOL class of '74 reservations

COAL TOWNSHIP - The deadline for reservations to attend the 40th year reunion of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School class of 1974 has been extended to Friday.

Any class member who has not registered can contact Jeff Hager at jhager@ptd.net or call 570-850-5496.

SCA Class of '89 reminder

Members of Southern Columbia Area High School Class of 1989 are reminded that the deadline to RSVP for the Sept. 13 class reunion is Friday, Aug. 29.

Anyone who wants to RSVP or needs more information can contact Anita (Breech) Rose at 570-356-2166.

COAL TOWNSHIP - A $500,000 bequest is being used to make some much-needed improvements to the building and grounds at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School this summer.

New energy-efficient windows have been installed in 30 classrooms, replacing those from the original construction in 1959, and the parking lot has had potholes filled and the surface double-sealed.

Joseph C. Leopold, a devout member of Our Lady of Hope Parish who attended St. Joseph's School, a former elementary feeder school for Lourdes, required that his gift be used for building improvements. Although he never had any children of his own, he supported the Catholic education of his nieces and nephews and was a strong supporter of family values.

Leopold died in 2006, and Lourdes received his bequest in 2010.

"We are going to have an estimated $20,000 savings in heating costs this winter" because of the new windows, Deacon Martin McCarthy, principal, said Tuesday.

He said the school may study the addition of air conditioning next year, but will wait to see how much the new windows help.

The windows have been installed and work is completed outside, but framing and drywall work continues inside.

Zartman Construction is doing the window installation.

As for the parking lot, the sealing work was done by Collier Paving Company.

"Let's face it, it was horrible. Now everything is looking sharp," said Jacqueline Kerris, director of development.

More work scheduled

Work won't end with the summer, McCarthy said.

"In the fall we are going to put together a committee of alumni and interested professionals to raise money to completely redo the chemistry and biology labs into modern classrooms," he said.

Anyone interested should call the school at 570-644-0375.

Lourdes will also be taking part in a Middle States accreditation review in December to start a three-year process to turn the library into a media/technology center.

McCarthy also noted that the curtains on the stage in the gymnatorium will be replaced in September and Lourdes is looking to tear down two sections of bleachers at the athletic field at the rear of the school that are falling into disrepair and are not needed.

"That would open that area up again," McCarthy said.

Also new at the school is a Community Aid drop box for used clothing and small household items. Community Aid, which has a large thrift store in Hummels Wharf, gives the school four cents for every pound of clothing placed in the drop box. The money is given back to the school in the form of gifts cards to be distributed to needy Lourdes families and students.

The school's faculty room has also seen improvements with a donation of furniture, carpeting and tables from John Shimock of Shimock's Furniture, Kulpmont.

Our Lady of Lourdes is gearing up for its annual Raiderfest Aug. 16 and the Raiderfest 5K run Aug. 23.

The public is welcome to see the improvements on those days.

WASHINGTON - The House Tuesday passed bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Tom Marino (R-10) to fight prescription drug abuse.

The Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act (H.R. 4709) will enhance collaboration between drug suppliers and regulators ensuring a more secure supply chain that protects the legitimate medication needs of patients, Marino's office reported in a press release.

"Ultimately, greater collaboration and understanding will improve efforts to combat the prescription drug abuse epidemic we know is affecting the communities we represent," Marino was quoted in the release.

Marino said a pharmacist from Pennsylvania told him last year about problems he had in accessing necessary prescriptions for cancer patients dealing with chronic pain. It raised serious concerns about problems in the prescription drug supply chain that threatened access and effective enforcement, Marino said.

The new bill would clarify current law and create more opportunities to "identify bad actors in the supply chain while making certain that prescriptions are accessible to patients in need."

It would give prescription drug suppliers and dispensers clear compliance instructions from the Drug Enforcement Agency. It would also requires much greater collaboration and communication between drug suppliers and federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies, so that they can better respond to this ever-evolving problem.

SELINSGROVE - A LEGO building contest will be held from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday at the Susquehanna Mall during the 94KX Cares for Kids Radiothon.

Contestants can register online prior to the contest or register at the event from 11 a.m. to noon. Visit events.geisinger.org to register online. Judging will take place from 1 to 2 p.m.

Entries can be created at the mall or created before and brought to the mall for display and judging. There will be multiple age divisions and prizes will be awarded to winners in each division based on public voting.

Registration is $10 for each entry. The contest and the radiothon benefit Children's Miracle Network at Geisinger..The funds will help to provide pediatric equipment, programs and services at Janet Weis Children's Hospital and throughout Geisinger Health System.