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$9k raised at golf classic

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MILTON - Pennsylvania Cystic Fibrosis Inc. raised $9,000 during its 18th annual golf classic at Wynding Brook Golf Club.

"Our sponsors, donors, and players came through for us and we'll use the monies raised to help families and to fund cystic fibrosis (CF) research," said Betty Hollenbach, president of PACFI.

Ninety-six golfers representing about 60 businesses turned out for the event, and approximately 120 people attended the dinner and awards program.

First flight winner was the Montoursville team of Ted Dougherty Sr., Todd Dougherty Jr., Lew Rupert and Bob Mull with a score of 63; second flight went to the Lewisburg team of Kim Benshoff, Bob Kauffman, Larry Haire and Colbie Kauffman with a score of 68. Third flight went to the Young Industries team of Bob Flook, Levi Spring, Ed Kitzmiller and Troy Charles with a score of 75, and the Ladies flight was won by the Lycoming County team of Pat Shuck, Vonnie Sones, Donna Strein and Ann Bird with a score of 69. Closest-to-the-pin winners were Amy Schemery, Pat Shuck, Ken Roberts, Kim Benshoff and Phil Morgan. Longest drive winners were Ted Dougherty Sr. and Tammie Hartland.

PACFI is an independent, nonprofit, all volunteer 501(c)(3) organization that provides services and supports for Pennsylvania individuals and families affected by CF and funds some of the most progressive CF research in the nation. For more information, go to www.pacfi.org.


City passes franchise fee increase

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SHAMOKIN - Shamokin City Council unanimously approved an ordinance Monday night that increases the television cable franchise fee from Service Electric from 4 to 5 percent, which will generate much-needed revenue for the city.

The second reading of the ordinance, which will generate between $25,000 and $30,000 more revenue per year, was approved during a special brief meeting by Mayor George Rozinskie and Councilmen William Strausser, William Milbrand and R. Craig Rhoades. Councilman Michael Snyder was absent.

Solicitor H. Robert Mattis reported the city is allowed under the Pennsylvania Communications Act to raise the fee to a maximum of five percent. He said neighboring municipalities have already raised the fee or are planning to do so in the near future.

Council approved the first reading of the ordinance June 13.

No other business was conducted.

'Cruise for Heroes' on Saturday

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SHAMOKIN - Plans are under way for the second annual Shamokin car cruise and several other events Saturday, all to help a number of causes this year.

The theme of this year's cruise is "Cruise for Heroes" and Citizens for a Better Community has teamed up with noted event organizer Skip Rabuck for the festivities.

"He was scheduled to have a cruise in May, but rain canceled it. He asked if he could join forces with us, and we agreed. The more the merrier," said Angie Arnold, secretary of Citizens for a Better Community.

There is no entry fee to participate in the cruise, designed to show off all styles of classic cars and trucks. Participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to Manna for the Many.

Those wishing to participate will meet at the Trakks in Kulpmont at 11:30 a.m.; the cruise starts at noon. Vehicles will travel down Route 61 to Strong, turn onto Route 54, travel through Natalie and into Elysburg, turn onto Route 487 and travel through Paxinos and turn onto Route 61 into Shamokin.

Once in town, the cruise will travel down Second Street. Spruce Street, Market Street and Independence Street, where participants will park their vehicles to be on display from 1 to 4 p.m.

The theme, "Cruise for Heroes," will honor all those who serve, whether it be in the military, police officers or firefighters.

"We are asking anyone who has any military apparatus to bring it Saturday," Arnold said. "We want people along the cruise route to wear clothing in support of the military branches or fire personnel and wave their American flags."

Marines, auctions and a D.J.

In addition to the cars on display, vendors and crafters will show off their wares and U.S. Marines recruiters will set up a pull-up bar for people to try.

"We are going to have a mini-Chinese auction for some car-related prizes, Flip-It DJ will be playing music until 4 p.m. and the American Legion Auxiliary will be have gifts for the children," Arnold said.

Coal Cracker Race, fireworks

The Amazing Coal Cracker Race, a race through Shamokin and Coal Township, much like the style of the CBS reality competition, will start at 9 a.m. Saturday.

Organized by former contestant Peach Krebs, competitors will compete for a $500 first prize. The public is invited to watch the start of the race at the Fireman's Memorial, at Market and Independence streets.

Spots are still available for racers wishing to register; there is an entry fee of $20 per person for teams with two to four members.

To register, contact Krebs at 648-6171 or at the Peach and Company Salon, 17 W. Sunbury St., during business hours. Currently, six teams are registered to participate and there must be between 10 and 20 teams to hold the race.

Citizens for a Better Community will be in town, selling food and drinks. All proceeds from Saturday's events will be donated to U.S. Marine Cpl. David L. Noblit Jr.

Noblit, of Herndon, lost both legs in an IED blast Oct. 20 near Patrol Base Fulod, Afghanistan.

Arnold said that due to a prior commitment, Noblit cannot attend Saturday's events, but his parents, David Sr. and Dana Noblit, will be downtown in his absence. They hope Noblit can attend the fireworks display Sunday as the Arnolds' guest.

This year's 20 to 25-minute display, set to start at 9:40 p.m., has been paid for by last year's donations. Volunteers will be conducting roadside collections Sunday to fund the 2012 fireworks display.

335-mile ride to eradicate polio endemic ends today

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SHAMOKIN - After decades of fighting the global poliomyelitis (polio) endemic, Rotary members are attempting to "pedal out" the remaining 1 percent of cases in the world by cycling through eight local counties in exchange for donations.

"Polio is almost gone, and we are doing our part to make sure that the Rotary is a part of it," said cyclist Jeff Coup.

Sponsored by Rotary International District 7370, "Pedal Out Polio" is a four-day, 335-mile bike tour of each community in the district that has a Rotary Club, which will then donate to Rotary International and the effort to eradicate polio. The tour started with a 77-mile ride from Renovo to Hughesville on Saturday. Bicyclists rode 94 miles from Hughesville to Danville Sunday, 72 miles from Danville to Ashland Monday and 93 miles from Ashland to Tamaqua today.

The event is also a way to get avid bicyclists together for a good cause.

"I like riding, and we were looking for a big project to involve everyone," said Coup.

Coup was PolioPlus chairperson when Rotary International, the World Health Organization and UNICEF first started the global effort to eradicate poliomyelitis in 1988. Since then, the number of annual diagnosed cases dropped 99 percent.

"In 2005, we thought we could rid the world of the disease, and we are at the point where only four countries still have it," said Coup. "Now we are just pushing to get it done."

As of today, polio only remains endemic in Nigeria, India, Pakistan and Afghanistan. If the eradication effort is successful, it would be the third time humankind has completely eradicated a disease, after smallpox in 1979 and rinderpest (cattle plague) in 2010.

Joining Coup on the four-day ride was fellow Rotarian Eric McDowell. Michelle Simon, a cycling enthusiast from Lewisburg, rode with the Rotarians for the last three days. According to Coup, "Pedal Out Polio" raised approximately $12,000 by Monday afternoon.

Also joining the cyclists on Monday was Shamokin Rotary member Margie Buriak, of Shamokin Township. Buriak and her husband, Mike, who was unable to ride due to a recently broken ankle, donated $25 each to join the cyclists from Elysburg to Shamokin.

"It was a good ride, but I'm not used to going that fast," said Buriak while resting in the municipal parking lot on Independence and Rock streets. "I wanted to do it because it was for a good cause."

The tour is open to anyone willing to make a $25 donation. The tour starts again at 9 a.m. today in Higher-Up Park on 19th and Oak streets, Ashland, and will end after 92 miles in Tamaqua. A rest stop is scheduled at Union Station, 300 Center St., Pottsville, 53 miles into the tour.

Borough to host San Marziale parade July 10

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KULPMONT - Members of the Kulpmont community are preparing to bring a religious tradition back to its streets with the return of the San Marziale parade.

The parade, last held in 1999, will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 10, and will begin at Holy Angels Church, 855 Scott St.

The event is being revived by Landscape Services, Bressi Family Foods, the Holy Name Society of Holy Angels Church, Holy Angels Church, the Kulpmont order of the Knights of Columbus and various dedicated individuals.

Marziale is the patron saint of Isca sull' Ionio, a small town in southern Italy, which was the birthplace of many Italian immigrants

who came to America, eventually settling in the coal region, for a better life.

According to legend, St. Marziale was the youngest of seven sons - known as the seven martyrs - of Saint Felicitas and is venerated as the patron saint of Isca sullo Ionio in Calabria, Italy, and Torricella Peligna in the Abruzzo region of Italy. His feast day is July 10.

During the parade, according to tradition, onlookers can pin money to the statue; the money will then be donated to Holy Angels Church.

For those who participate and march, there will be food and refreshments available at the Holy Angels picnic grounds. Those who wish to walk in the procession are asked to meet at the church at 12:30 p.m.

Back in 1927...

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- Topic "A" for the day was a mysterious shooting. Joseph Wynn had been shot in his Fifth Ward home in Shamokin. Wynn was taken to Shamokin State Hospital, but he died there without saying a word about who shot him. Police theorized the slaying might go unsolved since Wynn apparently had a lot of enemies and there were no witnesses to the murder, nor any clues concerning specific motive.

- In Atlas, two men were walking their dogs - one a collie, the other a bulldog. The dogs suddenly attacked each other. They seemed to be locked in a struggle to the death. A third man came onto the scene and tried to separate the dogs. In so doing, he kicked the bulldog. Its owner became furious and attacked the man. All three men wound up injured, as did both dogs. This was a headline story in 1927.

- State police raided what they described simply as a "place on the Trevorton-Dornsife Road." They said orgies and illegal drinking parties were held nightly at the place, and they arrested several men. The toughest fine was $25.

- In Philadelphia, the Ku Klux Klan staged what news people described as a monster rally with no major confrontations.

- Adm. Richard Byrd, the conqueror of the North Pole, was set to fly to Paris from New York with a crew of three in his huge monoplane "The America." Byrd would not make it. After 43 hours, he had to ditch the "America" in the English Channel. He and all crew members were OK.

District Court 6/29/11

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n SHAMOKIN - Susan Poltenovage, 47, and her 28-year-old daughter, Belinda Smith, both of 1440 Hemlock St., pleaded guilty Tuesday to harassment and were ordered by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III to pay a $100 fine plus costs.

An additional charge of simple assault filed against both defendants was withdrawn.

Poltenovage and Smith were charged by Coal Township Patrolman Jason Adams with assaulting each other at their residence on April 28.

n SHAMOKIN - Russell Heintzelman, 24, of 270 Gottshall's Lane, East Cameron Township, pleaded guilty Tuesday to harassment and was ordered by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III to pay a $100 fine plus costs.

Additional charges of terroristic threats and disorderly conduct were withdrawn.

Heintzelman was charged by Shamokin Patrolman Jarrod Scandle with cursing at two juveniles and pointing a black BB gun at them while sitting in a vehicle on April 23 at Commerce and Eighth streets.

n SHAMOKIN - Leon Vincent, 23, of 322 E. Sunbury St., Apt. 6, Shamokin, pleaded guilty Tuesday to charges of driving under suspension and careless driving and was ordered by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III to pay $225 in fines plus costs.

Additional charges of hit and run and driving the wrong way on a one-way street were withdrawn.

Vincent was charged by Shamokin Patrolman Jarrod Scandle in connection with a May 10 accident at Independence and Eighth streets.

n SHAMOKIN - Joseph W. Snyder, 28, of 169 N. Grant St., Shamokin, was held for court Tuesday by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III on charges of simple assault, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief and harassment relating to a March 5 disturbance at his residence.

Snyder was charged by Shamokin Patrolman Raymond Siko II with punching his ex-girlfriend, Cathy Seedor, in the head, face and jaw, choking her and smashing her $300 cell phone into several pieces.

Snyder was ordered by Gembic to appear for arraignment Aug. 1 at Northumberland County Courthouse, Sunbury, at which time he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n SHAMOKIN - Andrew Wyre, 25, of 410 N. Shamokin St., Apt. B, Shamokin, pleaded guilty Tuesday to possession of drug paraphernalia and was ordered by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III to pay a $300 fine plus costs and was placed on supervised probation for six months.

An additional charge of possession of a small amount of marijuana was withdrawn.

Wyre was charged by Shamokin Cpl. Bryan Primerano in connection with a May 12 incident at his apartment.

n SHAMOKIN - Bradley P. Carl, 18, of Bloomsburg, pleaded guilty Tuesday to disorderly conduct and corruption of minors and was ordered by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III to pay $300 in fines plus costs and placed on supervised probation for six months.

A charge of interfering with the custody of children was withdrawn.

Carl was charged by Shamokin Patrolman William Miner in connection with a May 10 incident at 165 E. Cameron St.

n SHAMOKIN - Linda L. Depena, 32, of 5 Raspberry Hill, Shamokin, pleaded guilty Tuesday to possession of drug paraphernalia and was ordered by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III to pay a $100 fine plus costs and placed on supervised probation for one month.

An additional charge of hindering apprehension or concealing the whereabouts of another person was withdrawn.

Depena was charged by Shamokin Patrolman Jarrod Scandle in connection with a May 4 incident at her residence.

n SHAMOKIN - Kenny V. Bunch, 28, of 21 W. Church St., Shamokin, waived to court Tuesday charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia in connection with a Feb. 1 incident at his home.

Bunch was charged by Shamokin Cpl. John Brown with possessing a bag containing approximately 90 grams of marijuana and an electronic scale for weighing marijuana.

Gembic ordered Bunch to appear for arraignment Aug. 1 at Northumberland County Courthouse in Sunbury, at which time he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n SHAMOKIN - Ariel Parker, 24, of 1504 W. Lynn St., Coal Township, waived to court Tuesday two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to drive in a single lane, careless driving and failure to wear a seat belt in connection with an April 17 incident along Route 225 in Coal Township near Mountain View: A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

The charges were filed by Trooper Thomas Leib of state police at Stonington.

Parker was ordered by Gembic to appear for arraignment Aug. 1 at Northumberland County Courthouse in Sunbury, at which time he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n SHAMOKIN - Tabitha Eltringham, 27, of 519 N. Coal St., Shamokin, waived to court Tuesday charges of delivery of alprazolam, possession with intent to deliver alprazolam and criminal use of a communication facility.

The charges filed by Shamokin Cpl. Bryan Primerano relate to a May 2 incident at Eltringham's home.

Eltringham was ordered by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III to appear for arraignment Aug. 1 at Northumberland County Courthouse in Sunbury, at which time she can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

Noteworthy 6/28/11

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Community service

COAL TOWNSHIP - Participants in a community service program coordinated by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III are requested to meet at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Coal Bowl on Tioga Street.


Library Memorials

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Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library

SHAMOKIN - The Shamokin Coal Township Public Library has announced that Memorials for the following period of April 21 to June 14 have been presented for the following persons:

Gilbert "Gib" Adams by Sharon, Joe, Joey, Jenn, Jeff and Sam Krushinskie and families, Margaret Myers, James, Michelle (Myers), Logan and Jacob Reynolds, Mary and Jeff Thew and family.

Mildred Balon by Ray and Colleen Lauer.

Tony Benedetto by Michael and Lisa and sons, Sonny and Phyllis Benedetto, Vikki Benedetto, Karen and Steve Heiber, Mary and Bob Kaminski.

Henry "Hank" Biedrzycki by Tom Kondisko, Whitey Vetovich.

Virginia Bradigan by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, John and Diane Frabrizio, Eleanor Shebelski.

Rimalda Bridy by Ray and Colleen Lauer.

Rosemary Britton by daughter Linda and granddaughter Amber, husband Walter and Mr. Peanuts.

James Broscious by American Legion Auxiliary Unit No. 73, Frank, Jeannie, Courtney and Wes, Bobbie Long.

Kerry Burkins by Dorothy Hawk and family.

William Carey by Bob and Joan McAllister.

Evelyn M. Clements by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Anthony Chiavaroli by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, brother James and wife Mary Chiavaroli, Carmella and Bob Fallon.

Janet Deitrick by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Joseph W. Kleinschmidt, Therese and Margie Kleinschmidt, Jack and Janet Watcher, Greg and Donna Wisloski.

W. Earl Delbaugh by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Jeff and Kathleen Clutcher, Kathy Gonsar, Linda Latsha and Tracy and Bob McIntyre, Vince Mirack, Steve and Betty (Adams) Scott, Carolyn Weaver.

Calvin L. Derck by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Robert and Dolores Dupnack by daughters.

Warren Ebersole by George Dorko and Gere Bonchak.

Cecelia Faust by Laura Bressi and Bob Hughes.

Harry Ferster by Coal Township High School Class of 1948, Lorraine Crawford, Paul Hooper, Richard Hooper, Dolores and Pat Kosmer, Diane and Joe Mushinski, Trisha Sponenberg and family, Margaret Wagner and family.

James Gehris by Carolyn Weaver.

Helen Getty by Ray and Colleen Lauer.

Katherine Glavich by Sharon, Barbara, Joann and families.

Jeane D. Gotshall by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Carmeline Bradley Greagor by Gloria Catino.

Marlin Heitzman by Sharon, Scott, Jarrett and Tricia.

David Hoffman by Charlie Abromitis and Sharon, Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Pat and Jim Bressi, Coal Township High School Class of 1957, Peggy and Mike Ferrari, Ronnie, Patty and Kelly Geist, Linda Latsha and Family, Ruth Peck, Rita Rovito, Ann Marie Pogozelski, Janet Bartholomew and Judy Fenix, Ken and Anne Marie Pogozelski, Bob Probert and Corrine Thomas, Edward Twiggar II, G. Richard Weimer, Greg and Donna Wisloski and Roxie Tobias.

Marian Hoffman by Whitey and Joan Vetovich.

Mary Holshue by Ray and Colleen Lauer.

Russell L. Hummel by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

JoAnn Kalloway by Nicholas and Leocadia Spock.

Richard L. Kerstetter by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Ray and Colleen Lauer.

Robert W. Klock by Darrel and Maureen Dudeck.

Lena Konyar by Ronald Kuhns.

Dorothy Kramer by Norma Moyer and family.

Alda Mae Krebs by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Jeffrey and Kathleen Clutcher, Sharon, Scott and Jarrett Heitzman, Mary Anne Leskusky.

Emma Krieger by Carol and Mike Krushinski and family.

Angeline Kruzick by Coal Township High School Class of 1948.

Raymond Kruzick and Angie Kruzick by Regina Kelley.

Todd Latsha by Linda Latsha, Tracy and Bob McIntyre.

Jacob Lachenmayer by Scouts and Leaders of Boy Scout Troop 250.

Edward Lehman by Shamokin High School Class of 1950.

Warren Lineweaver by Shamokin Area Middle School and High School Faculity.

Mary Ann Linnet by Ray and Colleen Lauer.

Russell M. Long by June Schleig, Kay and Ann Nowaskie, Joanne Scotko.

Thomas L. Manney by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Mary L. Martin by Dianne and Tom Dabulis and family, Jacque Robel.

Martha L. Martini by John Barr family, Jean Clews, John and Sue (Gerhardt) Golumbfskie, Cindy, Dan and Colin Klebon, Irvin Liachowitz, Marie Maue, Shamokin High School Class of 1942, Cathy and Michael Somerday.

Catherine Ambicki Moore and Marlin G. Moore by Carol Moore.

Richard "Dick" Morgan by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Bob Leader, John and Jean Miller, Shamokin High School Class of 1942.

Douglas Munson by Kyran and Frances Butkey, Lorraine Crawford, Joanne Scotko, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Sosnoskie and family, Susan and Ken Staner.

Esther Noll by kids and grandkids, Glen and Mary Lou Witmer.

Larry E. Novack by Carolyn Weaver.

Edward Oshinskie by Ray and Colleen Lauer.

Dennis C. Paczkowski by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Pat and Jim Bressi, Jarred Dabulis, Thomas, Diane, Jenna and Carley Dabulis, Ronnie, Patty and Kelly Geist, Kathy Gonsar, Narins Family, Steve and Betty Scott, Jerry, June and Charmaine Tetkoskie, Greg and Donna Wisloski and Yut Tobias.

John Parks by wife Linda.

Daniel P. Pennell by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Esther Pensyl by Gerry Moran, Leon and Alice Radzinowicz.

Barbara Phillipine by Shamokin Area Education Association.

Thomas Reiprich by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Albert, Eleanor and Nick Amato, Matt Sabo and Debbi Williams, Jim and Nancy Williams.

Marsha L. Richie by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Robert Sabo by Marissa Moyer, Whitey and Joan Vetovich.

Donald A. Schell by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Robert R. Siek by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Debra Ann Shicora by Doris Kodack, Joe and Deb Schiccatano, Rescue-Sump Pumpers, Amy, Chad, Allison and Trent Walters.

Donald J. Siddle by Northumberland County Children and Youth.

Robert Snyder by Margaret Pensyl, Judith Pensyl, Nancy Barber and family, Susan and Dan Tetkoskie.

Terry Soskloski by Diane and Marlene Fedorczak, Kathy Gonsar, Bob Leader, Glen and Mary Lou Witmer.

Jean Marie Stank by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Dorothy Stankiewicz by Shamokin Area Education Association, The Sunshine Club at the Annex.

Patricia Stankunas by Marian Edmondson, Flo, Kathy and Abby James.

Mary Stansfield by Mary Kanaski, Sandy Moore, Ann Weikel.

Louise E. Straub by American Legion Auxiliary Unit No. 73, Shirley and Bill Golden, Kathy Gonsar, Pepper, Shamokin High School Class of 1944.

Ronald B. Staubs Sr. by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Ronald M. Surak by Paul and Melanie Patrinicola.

Charley Tamkus by Mom, Dad, Alyssa, Randy and Trevor.

Alma Thomas by Emily Anderson, Donna and Scott Appel, Danna Appel, Sabrina and Joe Girolami, Rudy and Gail Persing.

Walter Toploski by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Albert, Janet Wahosky and family, Jim and Ann Weidenhamer.

Mary G. Troxell by SCI-Coal Township Employee Recreation Association.

Madeline Vastine by Carolyn Weaver.

Elizabeth A. Weist by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Steve and Betty (Adams) Scott.

Dorothy Welker by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Donna and Barry Lentz, Barbara and Carol Jones, Shamokin Area Retired Educators, Pepper, Evelyn, Richard and Babe Shelly.

Louise Weller by Caroline Weaver.

Don Wilson by Dick and JoAnn Patry.

Joseph Zajac by Linda Latsha and Tracy and Bob McIntyre.

Albert Zigarski by Michael and Lisa Benedetto, Sonny and Phyllis Benedetto, Vikki Benedetto, Karen and Steve Heiber.

Agnes Zyla by Craig and Jean Fetterman, Bill and Chris Rickert, Matt and Lori Schiccatano.

Contributions to the Memorial Fund:

Helen Ackerson by Connie Kulick, Greg and Maria Yucha and family.

James Broscious by Joannie and Don Yuricich.

James Clouser by Shirley and Bob Starke, Suzanne and Bob Starke.

Douglas Munson by Suzanne and Bob Starke.

Dennis Paczkowski by The Deitricks.

Louise Straub by Joannie (Ala) Yuricich.

Louise Weller by Allen and Sue Slotterback.

In Honor Of

Our Lady of Lourdes High School Class of 2011 by Mr. and Mrs. Edward Madden.

Honor a loved one and place a permanent memorial in the library's Century Club.

Heritage Days coming to Trevorton

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TREVORTON - Mindy Shingara and the Heritage Days Committee want the August event they're planning for Zerbe Township to be the first of many to come.

"We want to involve everyone. There's not much to do in town. We're trying to get everyone young and old together in this town," the event organizer said at her business, Mindy's Luncheonette, 830 W. Shamokin St.

Trevorton Heritage Days is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 20, and Sunday, Aug. 21. A parade will start at noon Saturday with a parade followed by the festival until 8 p.m. at the Trevorton Foundry and Pool House. The festival will pick up at noon Sunday with a talent show at 2 p.m.

The idea started a few months ago, said Shingara. She would often discuss with customers about how the village used to be. With the older generation dying out and the younger generation forgetting their heritage, the group wanted to do something to preserve the village's history. The group initially considered finding a building where they could display photographs and memorabilia, and eventually set their sights on a festival.

The most significant part, said Shingara, is the committee collecting the history of Trevorton in a "first-of-its-kind unique way" and asking residents for memorabilia, photographs or copies of photographs from Trevorton's first days through the present. Interested locations include the Market Street School, the North Franklin Colliery, the Strevens Colliery, the Trevorton High School, the Doodlebug Park, the Trolley, the foundry and any business, old or new.

The photos and items collected will be displayed inside the Trevorton Pool House during the event. They will be framed and donated to Zerbe Township for display after the festival.

For the parade, the committee is looking for antique cars, classic trucks, horse and buggies, military vehicles, trolleys, floats - such as a mine car, old wagons and children willing to dress in old-fashioned attire.

Other events include a coal bucket guessing game, in which participants will pay to make guesses at how many pieces of coal are in a bucket; historic trolley rides, and a bonfire, during which speakers will talk about old Trevorton memories.

Since it's the festival's first year, food and game stands will be offered free to all non-profit organizations, groups, teams, churches and clubs.

The committee is starting this festival with no money, so Shingara and others will be visiting local businesses and patrons to solicit funds. Anyone willing to donate items or money is asked to drop them off at Mindy's Luncheonette, Angie's Market, the Trevorton VFW, the Trevorton Legion or the Zerbe Township Municipal building by July 31. For more information, contact Shingara at 850-5784. The money raised at the festival will benefit future festivals.

18 teens cited for underage drinking

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MOUNT CARMEL - Borough police cited 18 teenagers and are filing charges against several adults following an underage drinking party on West Second Street Friday night.

Police were called at approximately 10 p.m. to the home of Laura Sorrentino, 36, of 216 W. Second St., Mount Carmel, on a tip that an underage drinking party was going on inside the home. According to Mount Carmel Borough Police Chief Brian Shurock, Sorrentino was uncooperative with Patrolman David Donkochik when he arrived at the home to investigate.

As a result, Donkochik believed that the information on the party was credible and applied for a search warrant, signed by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III, of Shamokin. Within a few hours, the warrant was served on the home, where police seized more than 200 containers of alcohol, illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

Among those cited for underage drinking were Nico Tovey, 19, of Shamokin; Zachery Whitmer, 19, of Shamokin; Robert Kaminski, 19, of Mount Carmel; Courtney Briel, 18, of Wilburton; Mitchell Shields, 18, of Mount Carmel; Keith Kisela, 20, of Mount Carmel; a 15-year-old female from Wilburton,

a 15-year-old female from Mount Carmel, two 16-year-old males for Coal Township, two 17-year-old males from Mount Carmel, a 16-year-old female from Girardville, a 17-year-old male from Shamokin, a 16-year-old male from Shamokin, a 16-year-old male from Locust Gap, a 16-year-old male from Mount Carmel and a 13-year-old male from Shamokin.

Shurock said criminal charges of corruption of minors and reckless endangerment are pending against Sorrentino because a three-year-old child in Sorrentino's care was in the home at the time of the party.

Three other adults - a 19-year-old male from Mount Carmel, a 19-year-old female from Mount Carmel and a 25-year-old male from Coal Township - may also face charges of resisting arrest and narcotics offenses. Their names have not been released by police, Shurock said, because the incident is still under investigation.

Assisting Donkochik in the investigation were Mount Carmel Borough officers Sgt. Todd Owens and patrolmen William Adamski, Matt Dillman and Shane Reamer and officers from Mount Carmel Township, Kulpmont and Ralpho Township police departments, Northumberland County Juvenile Probation and Northumberland County Children and Youth Services.

Judge: Grohowski not guilty due to ineffective counsel

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SUNBURY - Kazimir Craig Grohowski, a former Northumberland County Prison guard convicted by a jury of felony drug-related charges in 2006, has been acquitted of all offenses due to ineffective counsel at his trial and a prejudicial remark by the prosecuting attorney during his closing argument in the case.

Northumberland County President Judge Robert B. Sacavage issued an order Thursday granting Grohowski's motion for a judgment of acquittal.

Sacavage's ruling came three months after he heard arguments by defense attorney Edward E. Kopko, of Ithaca, N.Y., and Deputy Attorney General David Gorman regarding a post-sentence motion filed by Kopko requesting the judge to acquit his client or grant a new trial.

The judge had the option of overturning Grohowski's 2006 conviction, upholding the conviction or granting him a new trial.

Sacavage's order filed with the county prothonotary's office states, "The court finds that trial counsel (Attorney Richard Feudale) was ineffective by failing to object or make a request for either a curative instruction or a new trial during the commonwealth's closing argument when the prosecutor (Gorman)

utilized language asking the jury to consider 'sending that message.'"

Sacavage ruled the 39-year-old Grohowski, of Mount Carmel, was prejudiced by the "sending that message" remark and found that the evidence supporting the guilty verdict was insufficient.

The judge denied the commonwealth's motion to deny Kopko's post-sentence motion.

When contacted for comment Tuesday night about his client's acquittal, Kopko stated, "This case from the very beginning has been a miscarriage of justice. Mr. Grohowski was initially represented by Attorney Richard Feudale, who was ineffective and failed to properly protect his client from an overzealous and inept prosecutor (Gorman) from the attorney general's office. If the case had properly been defended, Mr. Grohowski would have been acquitted years ago due to a total failure by the prosecutor to present sufficient evidence."

Kopko added, "The prosecutor's failure was compounded by his attempt to make up for a lack of evidence by tainting the jury with inappropriate comments about illegal behavior that had nothing to do with Mr. Grohowski.

"We are fortunate to have courageous judges like Judge Sacavage, who are willing to follow the law and acquit an innocent man like Mr. Grohowski."

Kopko said he expects the commonwealth to appeal Sacavage's ruling to the state Superior Court.

Grohowski, who was informed of his acquittal by Kopko on Tuesday night, said, "I feel like I just had a giant weight lifted off me. I want to thank Mr. Kopko for all his hard work and tireless efforts. I also want to thank God, and Judge Sacavage for recognizing the problems that existed at my trial and allowing me to have my day in court. I want to thank everyone who has been there for me through this whole ordeal, especially my wife, Corinne, and family."

In his five-page opinion on the case, Sacavage pointed out that Gorman was prejudicial during his closing argument to the jury in which he urged them to send a message for change at the prison.

The judge said the Supreme Court in 1997 condemned closing arguments that urge the jury to "send a message" to the community with their verdict.

Evidence only

Sacavage said a jury's determination must be based solely on the evidence and not a prosecutor's emotional appeal or crusading incitation to make a statement to the judicial system or to convince the jury that a certain verdict is necessary as a form of retribution for the ills inflicted on society by a certain class of people.

He stated, "Although the commonwealth attempts to make a plausible argument against a finding of prejudicial effect, in the end, the court finds that, particularly in light of remarks made to the media by a juror the day of the verdict specifically referencing the impact of the language employed by the prosecutor during closing remarks, the prejudicial effect of the language on the outcome of the defendant's proceedings cannot be ignored. It is clear that the commonwealth appealed to sentiment rather than relying on the facts of the case and the evidence presented. The commonwealth crossed the line by sending a message to the community. While the commonwealth attempted to cure the misstatement, the damage was already done."

Sacavage also said in his opinion that there was no physical evidence presented by the commonwealth during the trial linking Grohowski to the crimes. He said the commonwealth relied heavily on circumstantial evidence presented in the testimony of three inmates housed at the prison at the time of the alleged incidents. The judge said the inmates' testimony amounted to little more than vague assertions that they had received drugs from the defendant.

"There was no physical evidence, either in the form of substances purported to be the drugs received, or any other nature," Sacavage said. "The commonwealth in fact presented nothing to establish that the defendant had delivered, transmitted or furnished any substance to the witnesses. The evidence here is so weak and inconclusive that a jury of reasonable persons would not have been satisfied as to the accused's guilt."

Grohowski has been free on $50,000 bail awaiting the outcome of his case that started in 2004 when he and six other county correctional officers were charged in a grand jury investigation involving alleged abuse at the archaic jail.

At a March 22 legal proceeding before Sacavage, Kopko stated, "My client was deprived of a fair trial. There was no evidence presented during the trial identifying scheduled drugs. The commonwealth didn't prove beyond a reasonable doubt any of the charges against Mr. Grohowski."

Kopko also argued that his client was "ineffectively represented" by his former trial defense attorney, Richard Feudale, of Mount Carmel, and that Gorman, who prosecuted the case, committed prosecutorial misconduct throughout the trial.

"My client has been hounded, shadowed and humiliated by this case since 2004," Kopko said. "He is an innocent man who was wrongfully convicted."

Gorman requested the judge to dismiss Kopko's post-sentence motion because it wasn't filed within 150 days of Grohowski's sentencing. But Sacavage, who initially didn't think the legal brief involving the post-sentence motion was filed by Kopko by the deadline, agreed to hear Kopko's motion after learning that the attorney had filed the motion on Dec. 4, 2009.

Gorman argued that a statement made by a juror after the trial about "wanting to send a message" had no bearing on the jury's verdict.

He also defended Feudale by pointing out that he filed pre-trial motions in the case and attacked the creditability of various witnesses at the trial, including various inmates.

'Extraordinary relief'

In October 2009, Grohowski was sentenced by Sacavage to two to four years in a state correctional institution on three counts of delivery of contraband - cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana - to an inmate at the jail, where he was employed as a correctional officer.

Grohowski was found guilty of the charges during a jury trial in September 2006, but hasn't spent any time in jail since his conviction because of various appeals filed in the case. He was found not guilty during the trial of another felony offense - aggravated assault against an inmate.

Following his conviction and prior to being sentenced, Grohowski, through Kopko, filed a motion for a new trial, citing ineffective counsel by Feudale.

In August 2007, Sacavage granted Grohowski a new trial, citing a need for "extraordinary relief," because Gorman made an improper argument to jurors when he asked them to "send a message" about alleged abuse of power at the prison by convicting Grohowski.

The judge also said Feudale provided ineffective counsel by not objecting to Gorman's remarks and requesting a mistrial.

Sacavage's decision to grant a new trial was appealed by the commonwealth to the state Superior Court, which in the summer of 2009 ruled in a 3-2 decision that extraordinary relief was not justified because the appeals process shouldn't occur until after sentencing.

Before being sentenced in 2009, Grohowski asked Sacavage to allow him to remain free on bail pending the appeal so he could continue to take care of his kids. The judge granted the request, noting that Grohowski, who works in construction, had appeared for every court hearing during the course of the case.

Grohowski was among seven current or former county prison guards charged on April 14, 2004, as the result of a two-year grand jury investigation into offenses allegedly committed between 2000 and 2002 at the prison. Charges against one of the other guards were withdrawn. Another guard was acquitted of drug charges during a 2005 trial and allowed to return to work at the prison. The other four guards entered guilty pleas and received various sentences, but avoided spending time in prison.

Line Mountain taxes increase

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MANDATA - It took three attempts, but the Line Mountain School Board finally agreed on a property tax increase as part of the 2011-12 budget.

"This area cannot afford to keep raising taxes. It'll drive people out of the district," said Director Charles Sample, who remained the lone hold-out on the increase at Tuesday night's board meeting.

Sample, as well as Directors Lawrence Neidig and Lamont Masser, voted against a tax increase of 8 mills and 7.42 mills. In order to pass the budget, five directors had to vote in its favor.

"My limit is six (mills). That's what I'm sticking with. It's been a horrible budget year for the business manager," said Neidig, who eventually voted in favor of 7 mills.

Director Dennis Erdman scolded the board members who complained Tuesday about raising taxes, yet voted several years ago against consolidating the elementary

schools in Dalmatia, Leck Kill and Trevorton, which would have saved the district money.

"It irritates me. Emotion superseded what reality was," he said.

With the increase, the district's total millage is 71 mills, which equals $7.10 for every $100 of assessed real estate value. Superintendent Dave Campbell said the district website has a millage calculator for homeowners to determine the impact on each of their assessed values.

Neidig and Masser made and seconded the motion to accept the tax increase as well as the budget. It passed 6-1. Directors Bryan Buddock and David Scott Bartholomew were absent.

The budget was approved with revenue of $16,697,257 and a cut of seven non-renewable teacher contracts, which eliminates four elementary classroom positions, a high school social studies position, a music position and a physical education position, the assistant principal position, the AD/coordinator of student activities and a high school English position. It also includes the resignation of one employee and the retirements of three others. The teachers also took a pay freeze.

The board faced, with massive state cuts and no 3 percent annual increase, a state funding deficit of $1,219,821. They also had additional expenses of $147,000 for the Trevorton and high school construction projects and $227,000 for the Dalmatia project.

Other business

The board approved Koppy's Propane Inc., Williamstown, to provide propane at a fixed price of $1.9850 per gallon, effective July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2012.

Church members arrive at sanctuary to find landlord had changed its locks

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MOUNT CARMEL - A local church is exploring its legal options after the organization that owns the building locked the doors and is not allowing members access to church property and personal items still inside.

Members of the Union Evangelical Free Church say they were surprised to find the locks changed at the building at 601 W. Fifth St. Friday night, following a dispute over construction issues with the building's owners.

According to church officials, the building's owner is Twilight Beginnings, a charity on West Avenue, and Joan Cicchello is landlord.

Cicchello reserved comment, hanging up twice when contacted by phone.

Pastor Larry Coutlee said the lockout has caused several inconveniences for parishioners.

"Church records and possessions and some of our members' personal possessions are locked in there and we can't get them out because of this," Coutlee said. "Also, the Girl Scout troop meets in the building and their possessions are also there and they can't access them."

The dispute, according to Coutlee, started approximately two weeks ago when the church was informed of the business's plans to turn the building into a gathering place for elderly members of the community.

"It is our understanding that they are looking to turn the building into a senior day care center, and they need to make renovations. Among those renovations is a new metal roof for the structure," the pastor said.

Coutlee said Cicchello informed him the contractors would be installing a metal roof and would "appreciate not having anyone in the building while the construction was going on."

Unfortunately, the church was told the process could take months because the contractor can only work Saturdays and Sundays. Construction on the roof began June 18, according to Coutlee, however, Cicchello had not told the pastor or other church members when construction was slated to begin. Church members found out while preparing for a Father's Day event.

The pastor said cleaning ladies arrived at the building June 18 and found the contractor working on the roof. The next day, Father's Day, church members arrived and found construction materials blocking the front door and foyer, and found workmen on the roof.

"When we asked them to stop, they got on the phone with Mrs. Cicchello, who informed the workers to hang up the phone and ignore the church members, just to stay on the job," the pastor said.

The next day, church officials found a note on the door stating that no church members are allowed in the building until the roof is completed. Church members were advised by the note to contact Twilight Beginnings' attorney if there were any problems.

The Girl Scout troop canceled its meeting June 22. When the church treasurer arrived at the church Friday to balance the books, she found the locks had been changed by Cicchello. As of Tuesday, no one associated with the church has been able to get inside the building to access computers and other material necessary to operate.

Coutlee finds the lockout troubling.

"All they had to do was give us a 30-day notice to vacate, but they have illegally locked us out," the pastor said.

Union Evangelical Church moved to the building in Mount Carmel from the former St. Joseph Catholic Church in Locust Gap in February 2010 to save money in heating expenses. Coutlee said the church and Twilight Beginnings do not have a written lease, but the church's rent has been paid up to date.

"With our rent paid, we should have free and unfettered access to the building," he said.

Parishioners were thankful that Hope Community Church allowed them to hold Sunday services there, but that does not solve the problem of how to retrieve their property.

"We are a bit at our wits end, because it seems like we don't have any recourse in the matter," said parishioner Jill Keener. Her husband, Robert, an elder at the church, has been researching the church's legal options.

"We just want to get our property back. The Girl Scouts should have access for their property. It's only fair," Coutlee said.

Fireworks schedule

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Today

Mount Carmel - dusk, during the Picnic in the Park.

Saturday

- Sunbury - dusk, N. Fourth St. Recreation Area.

- Numidia - dusk, Numidia Dragway.

Sunday

- Ashland - dusk, Memorial Field.

- Allentown - 9 p.m., Dorney Park.

- Shamokin - dusk.

Monday

- Bloomsburg - dusk, Town Park

- Williamsport - 9:45 p.m., downtown.

- Berwick - after the Jackson Mansion concert, Crispen Field.

- State College - dusk, adjacent to Beaver Stadium.

- Moosic - after the baseball game, PNC Field.

- Harrisburg - City Island, at the conclusion of the Harrisburg Senators baseball game.

- New Berlin - 10 p.m.


The coal region celebrates America's birthday

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SHAMOKIN - In showing their pride for America and the people that serve our country, members of Citizens for a Better Community hope that this year's celebration will top last year's inaugural success.

The Fourth of July celebration weekend will feature a competition of skill and logic, a car cruise and a spectacular fireworks display that has become a staple in the area.

The CBC celebration begins at 9 a.m. Saturday with the "The Amazing Coal Cracker Race," designed by former CBS reality show competitor Peach Krebs.

The race will send competitors running through the Shamokin-Coal Township area, looking for clues at businesses and landmarks.

Krebs said this year's race will focus more on the challenging roadblocks and detours, rather than the actual distance running of the race. The winning team will receive a $500 cash prize, courtesy of Peach and Company Salon, Shamokin. As of Tuesday evening, nine teams had signed up to participate, but Krebs said that 10 teams are needed by today in order to run the race. A maximum of 20 teams can participate.

At noon, the "Cruise for Heroes" will take place starting at The Trakks, Kulpmont, and winding through Strong, Natalie, Bear Gap, Elysburg, Paxinos, and Coal Township before vehicles park on display on Independence Street, in Shamokin, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Those taking part in the cruise are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to the Manna for the Many food pantry.

Organizers are asking those who have military appartus and vehicles as well as local fire engines available to come and take part in the cruise, or put them on display.

Those along the cruise route are asked to wear clothing in support of the military branches and wave American flags.

Food and refreshments, along with free gifts from the American Legion Auxiliary and a number of vendors and crafters will be available downtown. There will also be a special Chinese auction with gifts for car enthusiasts.

Among the items up for grabs in the auction include two Bistro Club tickets with a pit pass for the Pennsylvania 500 on Aug. 7 at Pocono Raceway, a car care kit from AutoZone, a socket wrench kit and bits from Advanced Auto Parts, gift certificate for a free tire alignment at Independence Street Sunoco, certificates for a free state inspection and a free oil change and much more.

All proceeds from the race and downtown activities will be donated to Cpl. David A. Noblit Jr., of Herndon, a U.S. Marine who lost his legs in a IED blast in Afghanistan in October.

CBC will be holding roadside collections Sunday in preparation for the annual city fireworks display, scheduled for dusk by Citizens Fireworks Inc. The donations collected Sunday will go to benefit the 2012 display. This year's 20-to-25 minute display is paid in full.

Shamokin Fire Bureau urges fireworks safety

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The American traditions of parades, cookouts and fireworks help us celebrate the summer season, especially our nation's birthday on the Fourth of July. However, fireworks can turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory when children and adults are injured while using fireworks.

The Shamokin Fire Bureau has offered some safety tips to keep you safe during the Fourth of July holiday, and some clarification as to which fireworks are legal and which aren't.

Although legal consumer fireworks that comply with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations can be relatively safe, all fireworks are hazardous and can cause injury. Fireworks are classified as hazardous substances under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act. Some fireworks, such as illegal firecracker type devices (M-80's, quarter sticks) and professional display fireworks should never be used or handled by consumers due to the risk of serious injuries and deaths that can and do occur.

To help prevent incidents like these, the federal government, under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, prohibits the sale of the most dangerous types of fireworks to consumers. These banned fireworks include large reloadable mortar shells, cherry bombs, aerial bombs, M-80 salutes and larger firecrackers containing more than two grains of powder. Also banned are mail-order kits designed to build these fireworks.

In a regulation that went into effect Dec. 6, 1976, the CPSC lowered the permissible charge in firecrackers to no more than 50 milligrams of powder. In addition, these amended regulations provide performance specifications for fireworks other than firecrackers intended for consumer use, including a requirement that fuses burn at least 3 seconds, but no longer than 9 seconds. All fireworks must carry a warning label describing necessary safety precautions and instructions for safe use.

CPSC estimates that in 2009 about 8,800 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks. More than half the injuries were burns and most of the injuries involved the head (including face, eyes and ears) hands, fingers and legs. Children and young adults under the age of 20 accounted for more than 50 percent of the estimated injuries. Fireworks should be used only with extreme caution. Older children should be closely supervised, and younger children should not be allowed to play with fireworks, including sparklers.

Before using fireworks, make sure they are permitted in your state or local area. Many states and local governments prohibit or limit consumer fireworks, formerly known as class C fireworks, which are common fireworks, and firecrackers sold for consumer use. Consumer fireworks include shells and mortars, multiple tube devices, Roman candles, rockets, sparklers, firecrackers with no more than 50 milligrams of powder and novelty items such as snakes, airplanes, ground spinners, helicopters, fountains and party poppers.

To help consumers use fireworks more safely, the CPSC offers these recommendations:

- Do not allow young children to play with fire-works under any circumstances. Sparklers, considered by many the ideal "safe" firework for the young, burn at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing. Children cannot understand the danger involved and cannot act appropriately in case of emergency.

- Older children should only be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision. Do not allow any running or horseplay.

- Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from houses, dry leaves or grass and other flammable materials.

- Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on fireworks that fail to ignite or explode.

- Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Douse and soak them with water and throw them away.

- Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.

- Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.

- Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.

- Store fireworks in a dry, cool place. Check instructions for special storage directions.

- Observe local laws.

- Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.

- Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.

Housing authority teaches attendees life saving skills

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ELYSBURG - The Housing Authority of Northumberland County sponsored a first aid and life saving technique training for its board members and employees and college students who work in the clerical and maintenance departments at the housing authority under its summer youth program June 22 at Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Barb Thomas, registered nurse and clinic nurse specialist; Irene Mallick, registered nurse and home care coordinator, and Marc Varano, marketing and outreach specialist from Life Geisinger in Kulpmont, provided a presentation on basic first aid and life saving training.

On a daily basis, all housing authority staff members are involved in face-to-face interaction with potential clients and current residents of one of seven family and elderly complexes. The training session provided basic knowledge and skills that will help each employee deal with real life situations.

Edward Christiano, executive director of the county housing authority, said, "Basic first aid training provides people the knowledge, skills and confidence to respond effectively in an emergency situation until emergency medical services personnel arrive. Generally, there is a lack of awareness for the need for this type of training within the community at large, whether it is in public areas or in the workplace, or even at home. Being able to recognize signs and symptoms of a heart attack or a stroke, or how to manage choking in a responsive victim can save lives."

Make a wish, honor a loved one at VNA Butterfly Release

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SHAMOKIN -VNA Health System Crossings Hospice will hold 12th annual Butterfly Release and Service of Remembrance at 2 p.m., Sunday, July 17 at Market Street near Independence Street.

A handed down Indian legend tells the story of a butterfly.

"If anyone desires a wish to come true they must first capture a butterfly and whisper that wish to it. Since a butterfly can make no sound, the butterfly cannot reveal the wish to anyone but the great spirit who hears and sees all. In gratitude for giving the beautiful butterfly its freedom, the great spirit always grants a wish.

So, according to legend, by making a wish and giving the butterfly its freedom, the wish will be taken to the heavens and granted."

At this year's release, you may honor the memory of friends and family members who have succumbed to terminal illness.

This event will combine a symbolic release of a bouquet of butterflies and reverent service of prayer and remembrance. The service is free and open to anyone who wishes to memorialize the loss of a loved one.

For a sponsorship fee, participants will receive a butterfly bush to take with them and a butterfly to release at the ceremony commemorating their loved ones. All sponsorship monies help support the local VNA Health System Crossings Hospice program and the services it provides. Anyone who would like to purchase a butterfly in memory of a loved one but cannot attend the ceremony, may have a VNA staff member release the butterfly in your loved one's name.

VNA Health System Crossings Hospice has been providing services to terminally ill patients since 1993 in your community. VNAHS Crossings Hospice strives to help terminally ill patients to be able to live life as full as possible. The hospice concept addresses the needs of patients, their families and caregiver.

For more information about sponsoring a butterfly, please contact VNA Health System at 648-8989.

Wilburton man charged for hitting police cruiser

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MOUNT CARMEL TOWNSHIP - A 21-year-old Wilburton man has been charged with numerous offenses relating to a May 7 chase in which he rammed the side of a Mount Carmel Township police cruiser before losing control and crashing into a tree.

Jeramy Allen Deeter, of 18 First St., who has been in Northumberland County Prison in Sunbury on a probation violation since the incident, is charged by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Kelly Campbell with aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under the influence, fleeing or attempting to elude police, flight to avoid apprehension, simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, driving under suspension, a lighting violation, driving without insurance, criminal mischief and restrictions on alcoholic beverages.

Deeter was apprehended following the vehicle chase and ensuing foot pursuit that began at about 2:10 a.m. after Campbell observed Deeter driving erratically on the Locust Gap Highway.

Officer injured

Campbell, who suffered minor injuries after his police car was struck by the Jeep Cherokee operated by Deeter, underwent emergency room treatment at Shamokin Area Community Hospital before being released.

Deeter and three passengers in the Jeep Cherokee escaped injury.

The police car, which is a 2010 Dodge Charger, sustained extensive damage and was towed to Joe's Auto Body in Natalie. The vehicle, which was recently purchased by Mount Carmel Township supervisors for the police department, had been in use since January and only had 14,000 miles on it.

The Jeep Cherokee sustained severe damage and was towed by Zlocki's Auto Body in Marion Heights.

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