SHAMOKIN - It was set to be the biggest order Nancy McElwee had ever received in her many years of business.

But the fact that Mac's Hoagies doesn't take credit cards may have saved the business from being scammed.

On Monday, McElwee took a phone call from a woman who said she was a member of a telecommunications relay service assisting a hearing-impaired person.

"We've gotten calls before from the service and have filled the orders, but they were something like five hoagies and the person picked them up themselves," McElwee said.

After asking several questions about menu items, the customer placed an order for 250 turkey and cheese sandwiches on kaiser rolls, each with a bag of chips and a soda for July 15. The woman said the order was for a celebration party.

McElwee asked her daughter, Shannon, to help her tally up the cost of the order.

"They were talking to her about what all is included with the sandwiches and I was working with the calculator, figuring out the total," Shannon said.

The bill came to $950.

While McElwee had never had such a large order - even though she has provided sandwiches for proms and even a wedding - she knew Mac's Hoagies could make the sandwiches by the requested date.

"All we were going to have to do was order more buns," McElwee said. "But as we got to talking more and more, it got a little more suspicious."

The customer said he would hire a truck to pick up the order, which would be shipped a "great distance," McElwee said.

After learning the price of the order, however, the customer reduced the order to 150 sandwiches and asked to pay with a credit card.

McElwee told the woman Mac's Hoagies does not accept credit cards.

"The relay assistant said the gentleman was insistent on giving the information, but I wasn't taking it, so she then said that the person hung up, and that was the end of the order."

Similar scam

A similar incident occurred in Nescopeck later that day. The Press-Enterprise reported that Franco's Pizzeria of Nescopeck received a order for 150 grilled chicken sandwiches through the relay service for a birthday party July 8.

The customer, a woman, asked Holly Burda, owner of the pizzeria, to charge her credit card for an extra $980 and wire that amount to a shipping company, which was sending a truck to pick up the sandwiches.

"The bubble burst," Burda told the Bloomsburg paper. "It was a scam. I knew it."

Laughing now

Despite the loss of the big order, Shannon McElwee said they are laughing about it now.

"We were a little happy about the big order, but then were relieved that they hung up and we didn't have to fill it," she said. "Once we learned it was a scam, we were very happy we didn't go through with it."

Common enough

The type of scam encountered by McElwee and Burda is common enough to be addressed by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). According to the bureau's website, any money wired to a supposed shipper will actually end up in the hands of the customer/scammer and the credit card number provided is stolen. Not only does the scammed business suffer the loss of the goods or services ordered by the scammer, it will also lose whatever money was wired to the phony delivery service.

The Better Business Bureau offers the following advice to business owners to help identify fraud:

- If the customer is using a TTY Relay Operator, ask the customer for his full name, address and telephone number.

- Ask the customer to provide the name of the issuing bank and its toll-free customer service number, which is printed on the back of all credit cards.

- Ask the customer for the three or four digit Card Verification Code (CVC) that is found near the account number on the back or front of a credit card.

- Tell the customer that you will check with the bank and call them back. When you do that, keep good notes. Verify all information the customer provides. If a customer objects, explain that these procedures are for their protection as well.

- If the customer still objects to providing any of the above information, hang up.

HARRISBURG - The salaries of employees at Pennsylvania's intermediate units and details of IU work contracts will be posted online for public inspection under legislation signed by Gov. Tom Corbett on Friday afternoon.

The IU sunshine requirements are tucked away in a school code bill that sets the formula for distributing $5.3 billion in state instruction aid to school districts and gives school districts more flexibility in hiring personnel.

The IU provisions are part of a broad-based policy change designed to bring IU disclosure standards up to the same level as school districts and not a specific reaction to a controversy over spending practices and resulting investigations at the Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit, said Rep. Paul Clymer, R-145, Perkasie, chairman of the House Education Committee. "It's making information available to educate the public on what the intermediate units do," he added.

The measure requires that annual financial reports of IUs - regional education service agencies - be posted on the state Department of Education's website.

The reports will include:

- A list of employees and contractors and duties provided.

- A list of all contracts, purchase orders and agreements greater than $50,000.

Reports covering the fiscal 2009-10 and fiscal 2010-11 years will be the first posted. The IUs have until Feb. 1 to file the first report with the Education Department.

Clymer said he wants to shed more light on the contracts and fees that IUs receive for services to school districts, charter schools and private schools.

Clymer said his committee had vetted the IU disclosure issue when it approved a stand-alone bill in early March, so it made sense to insert these provisions into the school code to speed passage.

Created four decades ago, the IUs were initially associated with providing special education. But their role has broadened to include back-office support, educator training and cost savings through joint health insurance and transportation contracts.

WEST CAMERON TOWNSHIP - While most children are outside enjoying the summer, the four Ramer girls are afraid to leave their house because a neighbor's steer keeps finding its way onto their property.

"I'm tired of my kids being scared of this thing," said Chris Ramer. "We are truly at our wits' end."

Chris and Jason Ramer, of West Cameron Township, have been trying for more than two years to have authorities take away their neighbor's farm animals, but everyone from state police to representatives at the ASP-

CA tell them that there's nothing they can do.

"I'm not sure where else to turn for the safety of my family and my animals, the destruction of my property and the safety of everyone else driving on this road," said Chris Ramer, "not to mention the safety of these animals as well."

Their neighbor, Dean Long, had a boar, a steer and three horses, all within the past three years. According to the Ramers, the boar ate fish from their backyard pond, and the steer has damaged their vehicles and property and charged at them on occasion.

Long said he got rid of the boar two years ago and his stepson has one horse. Long said he only has the steer, which he recently moved farther away from the houses. He added he is raising the steer for the butcher, and it will only be with him until the fall.

"The steer's castrated. He's like a puppy dog," said Long. "He's not dangerous. They're afraid of him, but he's not going to hurt anyone."

Although the Ramers caught the steer on video eating from their dog's food bowl and sipping water from their pool, they are not convinced the animal is as harmless as a puppy.

The Ramers said in addition to charging at them, the steer trapped two of the girls in a storage shed as it rammed the doors.

Jason Ramer built a fence around their property, but as recently as Tuesday the steer managed to move a picnic table across their yard.

"The steer only got out twice, and I paid for all the damages," said Long. "It's not the city. It's the country and there are farms. I'm doing the best that I can."

Chris Ramer, who grew up in the house and has lived there her whole life, said the family doesn't plan to move. Jason Ramer said he will probably have to extend the fence and build a garage for their vehicles just to prevent damages from the animal.

"If nothing happens, we're going to be forced to take legal action," said Chris Ramer. "We feel bad for the animal, but we're worried about the kids and the dogs that we keep outside."

The Ramers have three dogs, two of which are kept outside. The one remained calm as the steer ate from his food bowl, but Chris Ramer said the other one likes to run in the yard with the girls and is very protective. She fears a dog they rescued after it was thrown from a vehicle outside their house may be attacked by the steer.

Jason Ramer said that he fired warning shots at the animal before, but it didn't even move. State police said that it would be a few hundred dollar fine if he were to shoot the animal.

"It might just be worth the fine to keep the family safe," said Jason Ramer. "We don't know what else to do."

Cpl. Curtis Cooke of state police at Stonington said it is a civil matter and other than having an individual pay for damages, which Long has done, the police have no further jurisdiction.

A spokesman for The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) said the organization only has the authority to enforce anti-cruelty laws, and this particular case would fall under nuisance control, which is beyond its jurisdiction.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission said that it has no authority concerning farm animals, and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture didn't return a reporter's call.

SHAMOKIN - Teamwork, pride in America and respect for the military personnel who protect our freedoms were prominently on display Saturday in the Shamokin area as Citizens for a Better Community joined forces with "Amazing Coal Cracker Race" coordinator Peach Krebs and long-time car cruise organizer John "Skip" Rabuck to raise more than $1,600 for Cpl. David A. Noblit Jr. of Herndon, who lost both his legs in an IED blast in Afghanistan in October.

"Phenomenal" was the word used by Krebs in

describing the seventh annual "Amazing Coal Cracker Race" that began at 9 a.m. at the Fireman's Memorial at Independence and Market streets. The approximate three-hour race covered an estimated seven miles and included 13 teams running through the community while searching for clues at local businesses and landmarks.

Krebs said this year's race focused more on challenging roadblocks and detours, rather than the actual distance involved in running the race.

Krebs and her sister, Mary Lenig, participated in "The Amazing Race" reality show on CBS in 2001 and designed the local race based on their experiences on the show.

The team of Tyler James, Cortlyn Appel, Matt Schell and Abby James sponsored by James' Pizza won the race for the second consecutive year and received $500 donated by Peach and Company Salon, Shamokin. "It was harder this year than last year," Tyler James commented after the race. "Our strategy was to have the whole team stick together and figure the clues out before we started running."

The second-place team known as "Double Dorks" consisted of Janessa Kosmer and Marissa Herb, who were awarded $100 donated by Earl Sheriff, owner of Irish Isle Provision Co.

Krebs said the race itself earned $600, while an anonymous racer donated another $600, bringing the total donation for Noblit to $1,200. The money from the race along with more than $400 raised by Citizens for a Better Community during Saturday's festivities was presented to Noblit's parents.

"It was a really good race," Krebs said. "I was happy to give the participants the same type of experience Mary (Lenig) and I had on the show. I want to thank all the participants and volunteers who helped me organize the race, especially my husband, Terry Krebs, Amy Barnes and Larry Strausser (aquatic facility operator at the Lawton Shroyer Memorial Swimming Pool)."

Krebs also praised the efforts of personnel at the Coal Township Recycling Center and Gloria Zielinskie and other local business owners for helping develop clues about the race.

Richard Jilinski and John Arnold, president and vice president, respectively, of Citizens for a Better Community (CBC), were pleased with the turnout in the downtown district, where vendors sold merchandise, food and drinks, firefighters displayed an aerial truck and other equipment, a disc jockey played music and spectators walked between Liberty and Eighth streets admiring approximately 70 classic cars and trucks and one lawn tractor.

"Everybody worked together toward a common goal," Arnold said. "The race went very well and we were able to raise a good amount of money for Cpl. Noblit," Jilinski added.

Rabuck organized the "Cruise for Heroes" that started at Trakks in Kulpmont at noon and traveled through Strong, Natalie, Bear Gap, Elysburg, Paxinos and Coal Township before ending on Independence Street in Shamokin, where they were displayed from 1 to 4 p.m.

"We had great weather and cooperation from everyone involved in the cruise," Rabuck said. "I want to especially thank members of the Citizens for a Better Community and all the police departments. We had a great turnout."

Rabuck said a significant amount of canned goods also were collected in conjunction with the cruise that will be donated to Manna for Many and the Salvation Army. Rabuck particularly praised the efforts of teachers and students at Shamokin Area Elementary School and Shamokin Area Annex for collecting the canned goods.

Rabuck said all the cruise participants and members of CBC were invited by Ernie Delbo, owner of Trakks, to hear a band play at his Kulpmont business from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday.

In addition to the food and refreshments offered during the cruise, free gifts from the American Legion Auxiliary were available and a special Chinese auction was held with gifts for car enthusiasts.

CBC will be holding roadside collections today on Route 61 at Pool World and Len's Automotive, and Second and Independence streets in preparation for the annual city fireworks display presented by Citizens Fireworks Inc. at 9:40 p.m. today.

The donations will benefit the 2012 display. This year's 25-minute display is paid in full.

MANDATA - The honor roll for the fourth marking period at Line Mountain Junior-Senior High School has been announced.

Distinguished honor roll

12th grade - Andrew Adams, Dana Brown, Jacob Carta, Schylar Cook, Adam Deeben, Jonathan Derck, Jena Dittus, Margaret Fessler, Michelle Giordani, Kramer Hovenstine, Kelsey Lagerman, Tyler Lahr, Jacob Land, Sophie Lansberry, Bridget Laudenslager, Brittany Laudenslager, Mitchell Martz, Virginia Moyer, Laura Novinger, Casey Renninger, Courtney Scott, Micaela Shervinskie, Charles Shrawder, Spenser Snyder, Samantha Strohecker, Paige Swineford, Jordan Welker, Benjamin Williard, Christina Witmer, Tiffany Wolfe, Courtney Woodward and Jessica Yost.

11th grade - Daniel Adams, Macy Bethge, Alex Bobb, Joshua Carl, Maggie Coleman, Luke Erdman, Nathan Erdman, Chase Hogarty, Matthew Howerter, Wyatt Kerstetter, Chelsea Lahr, Kasey Long, Rebecca Long, Michelle Menko, Amy Percoskie, Taylor Reed, Elizabeth Reichenbach, Brady Renn, Anne Scheve, Nathan Shaffer, Taylor Shepley, Adam Snyder, Alexis Snyder, Benjamin Strohecker, Alexis Wasko, Wade Wetzel, Jenna Wheary and Joseph Whitehead.

10th grade - Colton Bowman, Kaitlyn Boyer, William Breinich, Kalia Carl, Rebecca Carta, Savannah Copson, Heidi Gessner, William Grove, Lucas Hoffman, Tia Kissinger, Ciera Lahr, Cally Lenig, Alyssa Letterman, Nathan Levan, Kyle Mace, Dillan Michael, Kerri Pickett, Carl Pollard, Jeremy Renn, Zain Retherford, Samantha Schlegel, Abbie Shervinskie, Erik Smeltz, Olivia Souder, Autumn Wehry, Joseph Weiler and Kyle Zimmerman.

Ninth grade - Paige Adams, Megan Bordner, Rayce Boyer, Hallie Brownawell, Hannah Campbell, Kaitlyn Erdman, Lauren Giordani, Kylee Heintzelman, Caleb Keefer, Kaitlyn Kembel, Janessa Kosmer, Madison Lagerman, Janelle Lahr, Shandi Lenker, Dillon London, Brooke Long, Olivia Poltonavage, Kaleb Portzline, Madeline Reed, Cheyenne Reitz, Jared Specht, Courtlyn Trautman, Colleen Troutman, Briana Wagner, Falconer Walshaw-Wertz, Cory Warford, Stephen Whitehead, Allison Wolfe, Colton Zimmerman and Jessica Zimmerman.

Eighth grade - Zachery Bobb, Breanna Boyer, Logan Carl, Kristen Erdman, Mary Erdman, Rachel Harner, Sabrina Hertz, Samantha Hertz, Isabel Kissinger, Olivia Kleman, Amanda Klinger, Ashley Lehman, Christian Lerch, Deidre Long, Meredith Long, Alexis Martina, Candis Mattern, Hannah Retherford, Kortnee Schwartz, Kelsey Shaffer, Logan Snyder and Sherylyn Wilkinson.

Seventh grade - Maddison Adams, Michaela Bensinger, Britney Bidding, April Brooks, Katelyn Campbell, Maddy Carl, Rachel Clark, Amanda Deeben, Christopher Deppen, Mikayla Derck, Olivia Elia, Laine Hackenberg, Austin Harris, Caitlin Heim, Kourtney Heintzelman, Wade Houseman, Morgan Hunsberger, Quentin Kaleta, Tommy Kittle, Dylan Latsha, Jonathan Lenker, Makayla Lorenz, Kiana Lukoskie, Kury Mace, Rebecca Masser, Kaleb Moore, Lauren Scheib, Briana Shervinskie, Abriana Smink, Cheyenne Weiser, Raiden Wiest and Alison Wolfe.

Honor roll

12th grade - Zachary Barker, Timothy Botkin, Tasha Campbell, Victoria Candelora, Brandi Heim, Alexandra Johnston, Kelsey Lenig, Courtney Reaser, Cody Selig, Coal Shingara, Tyler Smith, Sean Strohecker, Logan White, Sara Whitsel and Trae Wren.

11th grade - Martin Beninsky, Eric Bortz, Danielle Clouser, Alexis Glosek, Kyle Houseman, Alexander Karlovich, Blaine Klinger, Courtney Klinger, Adam Kritzer, Kimberly Krumbine, Ashley Lauver, Patrick Milks, Kyra Noblit, Courtney Rebuck, Kaleb Schlegel, Gabrielle Sprenkle, Jeffrey Stamm, Christine Tyson, Mikhail Whitcomb, Chelsea Witmer, Nathan Witmer, Jared Wood, Dillon Yeager, Rachel Zeiders and Mason Zimmerman.

10th grade - Dylan Brosius, Robert Cook, Kelsey Derrick, Amanda Feger, Katrina Heim, Troy Hoffman, Corey Hummel, Seth Lansberry, Alexis Lee, Jade London, Casey Masser, Ryan Paczkoskie, Ryan Shaffer, Austin Snyder, Cody Snyder, Nicholas Strohecker and Tysha Wilhour.

Ninth grade - Alyssa Johnston, Casey Klinger, Shannon Koperna, Ethan Marquette, Haley Moyer, Stephany Reader, Kelsea Rebuck, Samuel Scretching, Chase Selig, Braxton Strohecker, Jessica Wittig, Steven Yost and Indigo Zerby.

Eighth grade - Alexandra Balavage, Kirkland Bingaman, Courtney Bonawitz, Keyla Brill, Brianna Buffington, Blake Carl, Christopher Erdman, Corina Finlan, Colton Gaw, Amber Glace, Garrett Hepner, Hunter Hojnacki, Skyler Hoover, Emilia Johns, Shania Kerstetter, Matthew Kirk, Balir-Anne Kiinger, Caitlin Koperna, Kaela Laudenslager, James Lenker, Tabitha Lesher, Jayce London, Matthew Long, Heather Lutz, Chad Mace, Hunter Masser, Kellan Masser, Brady Michael, Morgan Moore, Tina Rebuck, Madison Reed, Beau Rothermel, Caitlin Scott, Brittany Shrawder, Tanner Spatzer, Austin Spotts, Patrick Temple, Natasha Wetzel, John Yerger and Elijah Zablosky.

Seventh grade - Kristin Erdman, Mairah Franke, Hayley Gessner, Nathaniel Gessner, Benjamin Reader, Jeffrey Rebuck, Brendan Renn, Emily Riehl, Elijah Scretching, Kadence Selig, Elizabeth Teitter, Madison Trautman, Abagail Wilkinson, Abby Witmer, Vaughn Witmer, Cassidy Yeager, Gabrielle Yerger, Daniel Zerbe and Matthew Zimmerman.

Rising temperatures are enough to encourage most of us to drink more on a hot day. It's a simple concept, yet most older adults remain at risk for dehydration - a lack of body fluids. Adequate hydration is critical to most body functions. A lack of fluids causes the body to become starved for oxygen and much-needed nutrients, the effects ranging from weakness and confusion to difficulty breathing. Commonly known effects are heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Any or all of the above can put older adults in a dangerous or even life-threatening position.

Most heat advisories target senior citizens because they are most at risk to become dehydrated. As a general rule, older adults already have less body fluid than younger adults (50 percent of their weight versus 60 percent). Changes in one's physical condition as we age, such as the ability to get up and get a drink of water or difficulty in reaching for a glass, may discourage an older adult from accessing fluids more frequently. Older adults have a decreased thirst sensation, so they may not recognize when they are thirsty. Keeping hydrated can also be a challenge for someone with a decline in cognitive skills, such as confusion or a loss of memory. Certain medications can result in fluid loss, particularly those prescribed for hypertension. It's important to check your prescriptions for any alerts.

Symptoms that may identify dehydration are weight loss, an increased heart rate, low blood pressure, nausea, increased skin turgor (elasticity), sunken eyeballs and a decreased functional ability. In some cases, weakness, trembling, lethargy and even confusion can be attributed to dehydration. Watch your ankles for swelling or decreased trips to the bathroom.

When the atmosphere is humid, we tend to perspire more, resulting in additional loss of body fluid. Being outdoors for even 20 minutes can produce redness, rash or blisters. When going outside, apply sunscreen and Chapstick (or similar product) frequently.

One or more of the following methods can be used to stimulate hydration:

- Encourage drinking a favorite beverage between meals and with meals. Coffee is not a good source of fluids. The caffeine makes it a diuretic, so you may lose even more fluid.

- Serve cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot.

- Eat fruit that has a high water content, especially watermelon.

- If a drink of water is unappealing, eat ice pops. Look for sugar free if you're monitoring your sugar intake.

- Keep fluids nearby for easier access.

It's always a good idea to drop in on an elderly neighbor, friend or relative during periods of extreme heat and remind them to drink. If they're exhibiting any symptoms of dehydration, encourage them to seek medical attention.

How much fluid a person needs every day depends on their body size and medical history. Not everyone needs eight 8-ounce glasses of water. Consult your health care provider for your fluid intake needs and don't hesitate to ask any questions you have on your mind.

(Provided by Mountain View: A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Coal Township, "Sensible Seniors" appears on the Health and Fitness page on the first Monday of each month.)

MOUNT CARMEL - Three brothers have been charged with simple assault after allegedly beating up a fourth brother during a confrontation June 25 at a South Market Street apartment.

Borough Police Cpl. Christopher Buhay charged John W. Derr, 22; Matthew E. Derr, 19, and Mark J. Derr, 18, all of 349 S. Market St., Apt. 2A, with criminal conspiracy to commit simple assault, simple assault and harassment following the assault of Joshua Derr at the residence of their mother.

Buhay said Joshua Derr was discussing with the family an unreported assault of his mother and name calling by other family members when a juvenile sister began striking Joshua. The sister was stopped by a brother, Dan Williams, and John, Matthew and Mark Derr began to punch Joshua, knocking him to the ground several times, police said. Matthew jumped from the stairs onto Joshua and began to punch and kick him repeatedly, according to police.

Eventually, the mother stopped the fight and Joshua left the residence, calling police from his home.

The victim suffered swollen areas all around his head and torso, including a swollen lip, police said.

The three brothers who were charged are scheduled for a preliminary hearing Wednesday, Aug. 10, before Magisterial District Judge Hugh A. Jones, Mount Carmel.

DUI checkpoint

SELINSGROVE - Troopers from the state police stations at Selinsgrove, Milton and Stonington will conduct a DUI sobriety checkpoint and DUI roving patrols this month in Snyder County.

Motorists are reminded not to drink and drive, and if they are drinking, they should choose a designated driver.

Fight at picnic

PRIMROSE - State police at Frackville will cite four people for disorderly conduct relating to a fight at 11:15 p.m. Saturday at the St. Nicholas Picnic along Route 901 in this Schuylkill County village.

Police said Kerri Wesler, 36, of Minersville; Tara Williams, 46, of Pottsville; Thomas Penberth Jr., 45, of Pottsville, and Tara Kuzio, 41, of Llewellyn, will be cited in connection with the disturbance.

Conditions same

DANVILLE - Roger Miller, 30, of 313 E. Sunbury St., Shamokin, who reportedly fell approximately 40 feet from the roof of his apartment building early Saturday morning, remained in serious condition Sunday night at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, according to a hospital spokeswoman.

Henry Prado, 41, of Selinsgrove, who was injured in a motorcycle-car accident Saturday morning along Route 11 near Cole's Hardware in Point Township, remained in critical condition Sunday at Geisinger.

Marino backs Life at Conception Act

WASHINGTON - The National Pro-Life Alliance announced that U.S. Rep. Tom Marino (R-10) has cosponsored the Life at Conception Act, a bill that would legislatively end the right to have an abortion.

The pro-life legislation, H.R. 374/S.91, is cosponsored by Marino and 91 other members of Congress.

The alliance says the legislation takes advantage of the fact that "the Supreme Court never declared abortion itself to be a Constitutional right."

A simple majority vote is all that is needed to pass a Life at Conception Act to establish personhood beginning at conception, according to the alliance.

"I commend Congressman Marino for taking a firm stand on protecting the unborn," said Martin Fox, president. "Rather than tiptoe around Roe v. Wade, the Life at Conception Act eliminates the High Court's impenetrable wall by giving Congress and state legislatures the power to end rather than merely regulate abortion-on-demand."

The National Pro-Life Alliance is a lobbying organization.

On the Net: www.prolifealliance.com

Sunbury church to remember 9/11

SUNBURY - Faith United Methodist Church, Arch and Second streets, will recognize the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, particularly the loss of first responders on that day.

With help from the city police department, the church will have concerts of patriotic music at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, and 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 11, at the church.

All first responders in fire, EMS, law enforcement, government and private-sector organizations are invited to attend in uniform.

Any questions should be directed to the Rev. Ron Ray at 473-7450 or Chief of Police Stephen Mazzeo at 286-4584, ext. 108.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging presented Pennsylvania Empowered Expert Residents (PEER) group at Mountain View: A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, with a $1,000 donation that PEER will use toward projects for facility residents.

The PEER program is designed to educate residents on their facility rights and appropriate quality of care. It also provides self-advocacy training, empowers residents to respond to dignity issues and allows individuals to have a sense of control in their lives. PEER residents also have an opportunity to stay productive and involved, Mountain View reports.

PEER training is open to all residents of the facility. The training and monitoring is conducted by the Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging ombudsman staff and volunteers.

The project's goal is to train residents and facility staff to work together to solve concerns before they become more intense problems, and to train residents as advocates to work within facilities to enhance the quality of care and the quality of life for their peers throughout the state.

The PEER project was initiated by the state ombudsman office to have residents in long-term care, who have volunteered their time and expertise, to self-advocate for issues that will resonate with their peers.

Mountain View is the first initiated PEER group in the county. It was formed in 2010 and meets monthly. Its members provide the local and state ombudsman offices with regular reports of status and activities.

Today in 1776, the delegates in the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, which listed many grievances against King George III, including the ability to tax the 13 colonies without representation in Parliament.

It is now 235 years later and taxation with representation brings about many discussions on what should be taxed, by how much and how much those taxes are a two-edged sword in providing important governmental services on one side of the blade, with the other side being the burdens they can place on individuals and businesses when they become excessive.

Ronald L. Boltz, Pine Grove, a member of Schuylkill County Conservatives, said that while taxes are necessary, they are a major burden to taxpayers nationwide.

"Unfortunately, fewer and fewer people are bearing that burden and more and more people seem to be benefiting from those taxes that other people are forced to pay," said Boltz. "A perfect example is the property tax, with the overwhelming largest portion being the school property tax. It is also the largest revenue for the school districts. There are people who have no children and are paying the school property tax, while there are others who are not paying school property taxes who have children in the schools."

Boltz said school districts have federal and state mandates to provide programs with no corresponding funding, which requires them to get the funding from local taxpayers directly.

"Other taxes pose the same problems. It seems everywhere you turn there's tax after tax after tax, which I don't think our Founding Fathers really wanted for this country," Boltz said. "In fact, there wasn't an income tax in the country until 1913."

The federal income tax was authorized by the Sixteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Congress had enacted a flat income tax in 1894, but it was ruled to be unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

Small, but ...

Boltz said that some elected officials look at new taxes or increases in current ones as not having much of an effect, especially when the increases are small.

"It doesn't seem as though government ever puts its own brakes on itself. I believe that really needs to start, and, in fact, I think we need to reverse this trend," said Boltz.

Peter R. Grahame, Ph.D., assistant professor of sociology at Penn State Schuylkill Campus, said taxes are a necessary part of a modern society, and as part of that society, people have a responsibility to others in that society.

"Living in a civilized society requires a variety of public goods that are not best bought and sold by individuals in the marketplace," said Grahame. " Think of roads and schools. Living in a modern society like the U.S. involves an incredible range of such public goods."

Short-sighted attitude?

Grahame said people do have an interest in helping at a local level, but not all look to assist others at a distance as a responsibility.

"Americans are highly individualistic, and not inclined to be interested in the needs of others living at some distance from them," said Grahame. "Thus they feel they don't want to help pay for schools in the poor city next to their affluent suburb. They don't want to help pay for a bridge they never use, and so on. Recall also that a lot of taxes are collected locally. For example, cities have seen their tax base decline as industries left and populations shrank."

Grahame said the support through taxes in distant communities and regions does have an impact at a local level.

"This short-sighted attitude towards public responsibility ignores the fact that poor schools, roads, and other public goods create a range of social problems that affect everyone, regardless of where they are living. The consequences are not local," said Grahame. "It is also my understanding that Americans pay lower taxes overall than people in most other developed countries. Finally, the wealthiest Americans are not paying their share and are able to manipulate the political process to avoid making a contribution in proportion to the enormous benefits they derive from the society."

Within the past few days, Pennsylvania has a new budget that includes no increase in taxes. and cutting government spending by more than $1 billion. State Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, said balancing taxing and spending is a intricate process. For him, it is the input he receives from the public, which pays the taxes and receives the benefits, that helps in the decision process.

"I really value the input I get at my town hall breakfast meetings. We do those across the district I represent. In the last year, people have been very clear at those meetings that they do not want state government to raise their taxes," said Argall. "This has been a terrible recession and would have been the worst time to raise the state income tax."

Argall brought up the school property tax issue, saying that it is something that must be dealt with.

"We need to make the system more fair and more modern. The way we fund our public schools is stuck in the mid-19th century," said Argall.

MOUNT CARMEL - Being locked out of their church since June 24 hasn't stopped members of Union Evangelical Free Church from practicing their faith and finding a new home to worship.

During a 10 a.m. service Sunday in the lawn outside the church at 601 W. Fifth St., the Rev. Larry Coutlee, pastor, told approximately 25 church members that a dispute over construction issues

with the building's owners "remains in the hands of the court system and attorneys." Although some of the activities held at the church have been temporarily discontinued, Coutlee made it clear to his parishioners that the church will continue to carry on its ministries while securing a new home in Locustdale.

"We've encountered a hiccup, a mild bump in the road, but this hasn't stopped our ministry," Coutlee said. "We need to dissolve the walls of the church and get outside the building, where we can talk and walk with people. This is the beginning of a new era. It's not the end of the church."

More than a week ago, landlord Joan Cicchello reportedly had the locks changed at the building, which is owned by Twilight Beginnings, a charity on West Avenue in Mount Carmel.

Union Evangelical Free Church moved to the building 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.

Church records and various possessions, including furniture and hymnal books, remain locked in the building, which also served as a meeting area for a Girl Scout troop affiliated with the church.

Despite the inconveniences presented by the lockout, Coutlee and his congregation have persevered and expressed gratitude to God and church elder Bob Keener of Fountain Springs for answering their prayers in regard to finding a new church building.

Coutlee said Keener, who also serves as a Sunday School teacher, has agreed to transfer ownership of his property at 221 Main St., Locustdale, to Union Evangelical Free Church for $1. Keener said his building has served as the County Corner Market since 1999 and was the former home of St. Joseph Catholic Church for many years prior to the consolidation process involving Catholic churches in the Diocese of Harrisburg in 1995.

The first service at the new location is scheduled for Aug. 7, Coutlee said.

Coutlee expressed his appreciation to officials at Hope Community Church in Mount Carmel and Bethany Bible Fellowship Church near Wilburton for allowing his congregation to conduct services in their churches since the lockout.

"They have been very kind in allowing us to share their facilities," he said.

When asked about the lockout, Keener replied, "We're very disappointed by the landlord's behavior. We're not happy about it, but we are still a church and we are praying for her. We are thankful to God for leading us through this difficult time. This is a goodbye service to this building, which was a blessing to have. But the Lord has other plans for us now."

Keener's wife, Jill, who plays the keyboard at church services and also serves as a Sunday School instructor, added, "We are still a church even if we don't have all our possessions."

Randy and Kathy Rearick, who live next door at 529 W. Fifth St. and allowed the church to use their electrical outlets for the service, are sorry to see the church being forced to relocate.

Mr. Rearick stated, "I hate to see them go. They have been great neighbors."

Coutlee commended the Rearicks for their friendship and hospitality during the past 16 months.

During his homily Sunday, Coutlee stated, "The church isn't the building. It's not the bricks and mortar, but the people who make the church. We have about 25 churches here today. Each person is the church and it's our mission to go on and continue our ministries. God shows us the path of life."

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

Coutlee said Cicchello informed him 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.

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

Cicchello previously reserved comment about the issue, hanging up twice when contacted by The News-Item.

SHAMOKIN - Quick response by local firefighters Sunday afternoon prevented an entire block of row homes in the 400 block of West Pine Street from being destroyed by flames. They also saved the life of a dog.

Five people were left temporarily homeless in the fire.

The 5:21 p.m. incident, which has been ruled accidental, started in the first-floor kitchen at the three-story residence of Bill Forbes, 410 W. Pine St., who was not home at the time. Flames were shooting out windows and eaves when firefighters arrived.

The fire quickly spread to other sections of the Forbes' residence and gutted the second floor. Smoke, water and fire damage was reported in other areas of the structure as well.

"The fire started in the kitchen and was electrical in nature," said Shamokin Deputy Fire Chief John Klembara, who directed firefighting efforts.

Minor fire damage was reported to 408 W. Pine St., inhabited by Joe and Breeanne Fisher, who also were not home at the time. Minor fire damage was reported to the rear of the third floor at 412 W. Pine St., inhabited by Janice Schroyer, and the third floor of 406 W. Pine St., home to Barbara Snyder.

Forbes' home also sustained extensive smoke and water damage, while the other three houses sustained minimal smoke and water damage, Klembara said.

He said all the fire victims, who were staying with relatives, are insured.

Klembara said PPL employees had to cut power only to Forbes' home.

He said the residence of Dr. Edward and Ann Marie Schetroma, 414 W. Pine St., was not damaged.

Dog saved; cats perish

No injuries were reported, but two cats belonging to the Fishers perished in the blaze.

Firefighters and emergency personnel were able to revive a 3-year-old male German Shepherd owned by the Fishers that was rescued from the home by Coal Township Assistant Fire Chief Michael Timco.

The Coal Township fire official, Friendship Fire Company member Amber Wheary and AREA Services Ambulance EMT Jim Vetovich provided the dog with oxygen and water outside the home before it was wrapped in a blanket and carried to an air-conditioned ambulance belonging to East End Fire Company in Kulpmont. The dog underwent further treatment in the ambulance before being transported to Sunbury Animal Hospital.

Flames 'like crazy'

While being evacuated from her home of 35 years, Schroyer told a News-Item reporter that she was ready to go to the store when she heard "crackling" coming from Forbes' home.

"I think the fire probably started in the back because when I looked out, I could see flames shooting out the windows like crazy," said Schroyer.

George Bettick, of 212 S. Fifth St., Shamokin, whose backyard is located directly behind the block of row homes, stated, "I was waxing my car and heard a crackling noise. I said to myself, what was that? After I saw the flames shooting out, I started yelling for someone to call 911."

Bettick's wife, Beth, said she spotted heavy flames and smoke coming from the back of Forbes' home after hearing her husband yelling outside.

John Dombrowski, of 241 S. Fourth St., Shamokin, and a member of West End Fire Company, said he was upstairs in his home when he heard a "bang that sounded like fireworks." He said he then looked out the bathroom window and saw heavy smoke.

Firefighters from Shamokin, Coal Township, Kulpmont and the Mount Carmel endured hot and humid conditions while battling the blaze. They scaled rooftops to battle the fire from the back, front and side, and had it under control in about 30 minutes.

"It was a good stop," Klembara said. "Everyone did a fine job and our mutual aid was great."

Second fire call

Shortly after arriving on scene, some firefighters responded to a second structure fire call at the home of Syl and Carol Kulonda, 20 S. Second St. Fortunately, that call only involved an overheated electrical outlet used for an air conditioner that caused smoky conditions.

Firefighters were at the Second Street call for only several minutes before returning to the Pine Street fire.

Ammunition 'pops'?

At about 5:35 p.m., loud pops that sounded like firecrackers could be heard coming from the Forbes' residence. Neighbors said Forbes has several guns and ammunition in his home, which may have caused the firecracker-like noises. Klembara said he couldn't confirm what made the loud pops.

Assisting Klembara were city battalion chief Jason Zimmerman, Timco and Coal Township Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Malukas.

Firefighters remained at the scene until shortly after 8 p.m.

SHAMOKIN - Spectacular, awesome, amazing.

Those were some of the adjectives used by spectators to describe the 25-minute fireworks display Sunday night sponsored by Citizens for a Better Community (CBC) and Citizens Fireworks Inc. (CFI).

The annual pyrotechnics show once again entertained a large and appreciative audience with its bright colors, designs and seemingly never-ending grand finale.

A minor mishap was reported at the Cameron Coal Bank launch site, with one of the shell loaders suffering minor burns, according to unofficial reports from the scene. The man was transported by a medic unit off the mountain and taken to Shamokin Area Community Hospital.

The fireworks began lighting up the night sky at 9:40 p.m. and could be heard miles away as large shells detonated hundreds of feet in the air, while smaller ones blasted off closer to the ignition spot.

Spectators marveled at the beautiful colors and shapes while volunteers from CFI wasted no time in setting off the charges

with lightning rapidity. At one point of the show, three-tiers of fireworks dotted the sky.

After the grand finale, applause could be heard coming from the municipal parking lot on Independence Street, which offers a great vantage point to view the display. Vehicles filled the Water Street parking lot, and crowds gathered at numerous vantage points in and around the downtown and surrounding Coal Township.

The fireworks impressed people of all ages, including many who have viewed numerous displays in the Shamokin area over the years.

John Matichak, 64, of Shamokin, stated, "I thought the grand finale was awesome."

"That was one of the nicest displays I've ever seen," commented 64-year-old lifelong Shamokin resident Mick Wolfe.

Tom Nowroski, 58, of Atlas, who has been watching the show from Rock Street near the municipal lot for many years, said, "I thought the fireworks were better this year than other years. They were awesome and it was a great night to watch them."

Boyd Lahr, 30, of Dalmatia, described the display as the "best ever." He said, "I liked them all."

Garrett Sassani, 10, of Winfield, said, "My favorite was the grand finale. It was amazing."

Sassani's 9-year-old sister, Savannah Sassani, said, "They were all so pretty, especially the grand finale."

Volunteers from CBC conducted roadside collections for the fireworks Sunday on Route 61 at Pool World and Len's Automotive, and Second and Independence streets in Shamokin. The donations will be used to help pay for next's year show. This year's display was paid in full. A total from this year's collection will be reported soon.

SELINSGROVE - Courtney Conrad, a sophomore at Susquehanna University, was recently inducted into the Lamda Sigma Chapter of Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society. TriBeta is a society for students dedicated to improving the understanding and appreciation of biological study and extending the boundaries of human knowledge through scientific research.

Conrad, a biology major with a minor in health care studies, is on the dean's list with a 3.75 grade-point average, and she was also on the dean's list for the fall semester.

She is a daughter of Jeffrey and Sandra Conrad, of Coal Township, and a granddaughter of Steven and Margaret Conrad, of Shamokin, Dorothea Yancoski, of Kulpmont, and the late Eugene Yancoski.

She is working as a biology summer research assistant for Susquehanna University.

SHIPPENSBURG - Michael Rowe, of Shamokin, graduated magna cum laude from Shippensburg University on May 7, 2011. A 2007 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School, he received a Bachelor of Science in computer science with a minor in technical/professional communications. He is a son of Dan and Ruth Rowe and a grandson of the late Joseph and Anna Rowe and the late David and Arabella McCormick, of Shamokin.

While attending Shippensburg University, he was vice-president of the student Senate and served as chairperson of the IT committee, extracurricular activities committee and student group services committee. He was also a member of the university technology council and web content advisory committee. During the spring 2010 semester, he was nominated by faculty and inducted into Upsilon Pi Epsilon, the international computing honor society. He also was a recipient of the Shippensburg University Foundation Scholarship for the four years he attended.

Rowe was employed as a student desktop support technician at Shippensburg University since the spring 2009 semester. He was the website manager for Catholic Campus Ministry at Shippensburg since 2010. He also worked as an intern at the Geisinger Center for Health Research since summer 2010 and has recently accepted a full-time position there as a technical analyst.

The following memorials and special intentions were dedicated at the Saint Pauline Center:

Elizabeth Breskiewicz by Michael and Maryanne Woytowich.

Dominic Dominijanni by Jack and Rita Laukaitas, Rick and Deb Perles family, Donna Greco family, Bob Greco and family, Atty. Edward Greco and family and by the Dominic Dominijanni family.

Vincenzo Mannello by Rose Dominijanni.

Romaldo Greco by Rose Dominijanni.

Charles Gidaro by Rose Dominijanni.

Mimmmo Dominijanni by Rose Dominijanni.

Walter Topolski by Gerry and Marty Zarkoski.

Romilda F. Bridy by Cynthia Kleban, Jean Clews, Dolores Honecker and Rosemary Karycki and by Jack and Rita Laukaitas.

Eleanor G. Orloski by Dolores Staskiel, Vinny Clausi, Rick and Deb Perles family, Bob Greco and family, Vincent Guarna, Pat Novakoski, Atty. Edward Greco and family, Mrs. Elizabeth Katona, Victor and Pearl Martello, Albert and Henrietta Visintainer, Jack and Rita Laukaitas, Cathy and Maria Lacroce, Anna Timm, Mary L. Altmire, Henry Sgro, Delfina Gidaro and family, Gerry and Marty Zarkoski, Geri Shimko, Carol Patton, Peggy Yancheski and family, St. Pauline Healing Heart Of Jesus Society, Nick and Shirley Gard, Rose Schell and by Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Thomas J. Gross by Donna and Louis Greco.

Ralph Owens by Geri Shimko.

Inez Johnson by Rosary Group (St. Casimir's).

Brian Cesari by Gerry and Marty Zarkoski.

Rose Zuber by Carol Patton.

Anna Baksi by Gerry and Marty Zarkoski.

Norbert Ososkie by Rita and Gus Veach and by Joseph Scicchitano.

Edward Oshinskie by Rita and Gus Veach.

Anna Dietrick by Rita and Gus Veach.

Krista Mazurkevich Fracalossi by Rita and Gus Veach.

Albert Verano by Donna Greco, St. Pauline Healing Heart Of Jesus Society, Bob Greco family, Rick and Deb Perles family and by Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Dorothy Lorraine Teufel by Walter Janusky and Donna Greco.

Anthony Miscavage by Donna Louis Greco, Walter Janusky and by Jack and Rita Laukaitas.

Father's Day memorial

Joseph Serovich by Jerry Zarkoski.

Diabetic intentions

Riba Wilcox, Marilyn Smith, Mary Reynolds, Joseph Pavilik, Elsa Plummer, Patrick Foley, Thomas Wenner, Arcadio Tinio, Alicia Charvet, George O'Toole, Adelina Ulibarri, Carlo Munizza, Robert Carlyle, Judy Doland, Mary Murphy, Clara Green, Ella Bernard, Theresa Madonna, Patricia Hauber, Annie Gaytan, Linda Lee and Maria Corona.

Summer has finally arrived, as evidenced by the holiday weekend heat and one other little factor: The men on the street have their shirts off. Oh yes. Take a spin through town and you'll be surrounded by them: Man nipples. Staring you in the face. Whoa, wait. Did I just say nipples in the newspaper? Yes, I think I did, and I believe it's OK, because apparently, man nipples are as acceptable on the streets as is donning pajama pants at Wal-Mart.

On second thought, out of respect for our readers, although they are what I'll be focusing on, I won't use the word "nipples" anymore in this column. In fact, I'll replace it with the word "noodles" to cushion the blow of such vulgar jargon.

So, back to guys with no shirts. Am I complaining? For the most part, no, not at all.

I like to look at guys. I like broad shoulders and nice man-arms; I don't mind if they aren't Shamokin Adonises, either, because, as I've said before, I find a beer gut on man endearing. I'd rather a man have a good personality and a good head - with good teeth in it - and a nice face on the front over a gym rat with a rock-hard body any day. So, guys with their shirts off - not a negative thing. Don't get me wrong, once in a while, there is an utterly terrifying rendition of "guy with his shirt off" that makes me pray for momentary blindness, but for the most part, it's fine.

Am I salivating over the ones I find attractive? I wouldn't go as far to say I'm literally drooling, but my eyes have been grateful and I've done some double-takes; you can't blame a girl for looking, right? It's fine. I almost applaud it, but, for the most part, I'm pretty unfazed by it.

And do you know why I'm unfazed?

Because guys have their shirts off all the time, we see their noodles all the time: At the playground for some "shirts" versus "skins" basketball, at the beach, at the pool, running public streets for exercise, working on rooftops and wherever else they please as long as there isn't a "No shirt, no shoes, no business" policy.

As much as I don't mind it, and I'm not wanting to walk around town with my shirt off, I still don't get why it is OK for a guy, but not a girl to expose their noodles. And before you douse me with holy water, I should be clear that I'm not trying to reverse the rule. I'm all for decency - I think the rules of exposure should stay the way they are - I would just like to know why things are the way they are.

Because, really, doesn't it all come down to the noodles?

Pennsylvania law says that a person commits the crime of public indecency when he exposes his "stuff" (no need to say it) in any public place or in any place where others are present and the exposure of the person's "stuff" would likely offend, affront or cause alarm. Pennsylvania recognizes the exposure of "stuff" to be the "you know," the "you know" and the "you know." In addition, the noodle area of a woman's breasts also constitutes indecent exposure. One exception to the law: Men are exempted from violation of decency laws when the noodles and chest are bared in public places such as swimming pools, beaches and so on.

What is the big deal with women's noodles in contrast to men's noodles? We all have them. It all starts in the womb. They are leftovers from early fetal development. We were once just fetuses with undetermined genders until hormones told us whether we were going to be a girl or a boy. Noodles are a leftover from that time because we initially develop as females.

Still, they are barely different. Women have more going on there, you say? Really? The majority of the time, yes, but have you ever seen a set of "moobs," or man boobs, on a guy? They are occasionally indecent and bra-worthy. And again, I get that, aside from clothing-optional beaches, it is the rule and I'm not saying that rule should be overturned - believe me, with some of the sights you see in this town, the last thing I would want to encourage is more exposure - I just don't get where all this came from.

And it must be the noodles' fault. The noodles are surely the guilty party.

No one seems to care when a girl wears a bikini that could double as a kite for a tiny little doll house, but, she goes into the ocean, and one of her noodles slips out and the universe doesn't even know what to do with itself. A celebrity slips a noodle and it's literally all over the news. It's a headline. Khloe Kardashian was recently on one of the morning shows wearing a sheer blouse unknowingly showing noodle and it was literally the top news on every pop culture/humor site I visit. Where were my stories about cats watching Iron Maiden videos or kangaroos wearing pajamas? Nowhere. There was no room because of one stupid noodle.

Why do we care so much about them? My big deal is that people make them a big deal, and all I'd like to know is what is the big deal? Where did all of this come from? Why does that small area of skin matter so much, and why does it only matter on a girl? If you got a big lump on your forehead from a nasty fall and you drew a noodle on it, would that be obscene? If you stuck a noodle on your kneecap, would you be destined for a lifetime of pants? Because this column has a bunch of noodles mentioned and I'm a girl, does that make this obscene? Will this even go to print?

I'm dumbfounded.

I think it should be added to the "Wonders of the World" list. It should be number eight: The great noodle controversy.

So guys, my advice to you is this: Take advantage of the fact that you are free to show your noodles to the world. Toss your shirts all summer long and let your noodles sway in the wind and soak up the warm sun - if for no other reason, just because you can.

(Wasakoski, a News-Item editor, is a graduate of Von Lee School of Aesthetics and is certified as a professional makeup artist.)

CDBG presentation scheduled

LEWISBURG - A comprehensive overview of the commonwealth's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program will be presented at Tools for Compliance, a two-day training session in Lewisburg, July 19 and 20. It is being offered by SEDA-COG, which has nearly 30 years of CDBG experience.

"County and municipal officials know how complex the CDBG program can be," said Bill Seigel, who heads SEDA-COG's community development program. "There are monitoring requirements, compliance issues and a number of related concerns. At Tools for Compliance, we'll look at every aspect of the CDBG program, and respond to questions about specific, local situations," he said.

The agenda for the first day includes:

- Program history and regulations.

- Eligibility and fundability.

- Grant administration and citizen participation.

- Environmental review.

Topics on the second day are:

- Minority and women's business enterprises.

- Section 3.

- Procurement.

- Davis-Bacon and related acts.

"The agenda has primarily been designed for elected officials, CDBG grant administrators and CDBG grant recipients," Seigel said. "Participants will also receive a bound desk reference and a CD containing hundreds of pages of model documents, guidelines and procedures developed through the experience of SEDA-COG's community development program."

Tools for Compliance will be held at the Union County Government Center, 155 N. 15th St. Registration is $275, for which the deadline is Tuesday, July 12. The registration form can be found at http://www.seda-cog.org/pages/communitydevelopment.aspx. Individuals may also contract SEDA-COG directly at 524-4491.

Mount Carmel Public Library

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Area Public Library is grateful for the following donations, which have been its most basic and important source of support.

In Honor Of

J. Kevin Jones from Nancy Schu.

Father's Day memorial

Reno Purin from daughters.

Anniversary memorial

Harold Anthony from Joe Blass.

In memory of

Thomas Alekseyko from Dolores Lutz.

Anna B. Baksi from Megan Allen and sons, Kimberly and Steve Pesarchick and sons; Thomas and Lisa Allen; Ray, MaryAnn and Amanda Bartosic; CarolAnn and Thomas Bator; Jim and Gingie Britton; Irene Casari; Jim Darrup; Albert and Olive Green; Marilyn Kanezo; Ray and Marianne Kornacki; Gloria Klemas; Dian Ondo; Reynold and Patty Scicchitano; Bill Wagner; Melanie Wengrenovich; Melanie Williams.

John and Julia Baranco from daughter Eileen Jean Baranco-Andes, granddaughter Lisa Andes, grandson Greg Pancher, great-grandchildren Brendan and Brianna Pancher.

John R. Belfonti from Michael and Ida Balichik; Gilly Elgin; Walter Kirchhoff; Joseph May; Ann Wenrich.

Romilda Bridy from Michael and Ida Balichik; Ray, MaryAnn and Amanda Bartosic.

Dianne Brownlee from Timberwood staff.

Jean N. Bush from Bill and Ann Bush; Frank and Marie Crawford; Daniel J. and Diane J Dobek; Henry and Pat Fadrowski; Paul and Dorothy Gaughan; Mary Gondal; Donna and Phil Klaus; Ray and Marianne Kornacki; Peter and Judy Lentini; Mr. and Mrs. David McAnnaney and son; Dean J. and Lynn Martinis; Allen and Nancy Miller; Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Mirarchi Jr.; Linda M. and Arthur Partin; Richard R. Santer; Robert and Brenda Taylor.

Betty Butela from Karen and Brian Yeager and sons.

Catherine Coakley from Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Damico; Phil and Elaine Gergen; the Kanezo family; Jeff Kanezo; Ray and Marianne Kornacki; Peter Pachuski; Tom and Gayle Pivarnik and family; David and Anne Pizzoli; Annabel Skonecki; Amy Watkins family; Melanie Wengrenovich.

Deceased Members Mount Carmel Area Joint High School Class of 1956 from Mount Carmel Area Class of 1956.

William Ditchey from Marie.

Alice B. Emmons from Jerry Criniti; Joanne Kogut; Robert and Brenda Taylor; Kitty Treese; Matty, Peggy and Melissa Treese.

Maci Ferrari from Bruin Matulewicz.

LeeAnn Getty from Michael and Ida Balichik.

Mary Ellen Haggerty from cousins, Corinne Cannon and Ann Cannon Wenrich.

Edward Hixson from Tara Kimsal.

John "Jack" Joraskie from Bill and Marie Joraskie; Ray and Kathy Joraskie and family; Tom and MaryJane Joraskie; Gloria Klemas; Janet Piccarella and family.

Joseph Katchick from Art and Maria Catino; Sylvia Hynoski; Joan Owens and sons.

Harry and Anna Kautter from Kenneth and Richard Kautter.

Francis Mekailek from Mr. and Mrs. Jack Williams and family.

John E. Miller from Kathy and Bob Else; Bob and Barbara Kozlowski; Fred and Dolores Lutz.

Josephine J. Miller from Jeff Kanezo.

Anthony "Red" Miscavige from Frank and Marie Alba; Mary Altomare; Miriam Berezovske; Jeanne Bergal; Perino and Mary Bevivino; Joe, John and Maria Bressi; Theresa Brokenshire and William J Schultz; Theresa and Bill Brown; John and Donna Buhay; Art and Maria Catino; Bonnie Refford Cawthon; James and Loretta Coyle; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph D'Amico; Jim Darrup; Nancy and Joe DiFrancesco; Jazz and Ann Louise Diminick; Marie Ditchey; Alice Dorkoski; Ed and Janice Smith Dudginski; Jackie Dunham; Gilly Elgin; Anna Flynn; Kristen and Keith Fourspring; Phil and Elaine Gergen; Mildred Greco; Albert and Olive Green; Don and MaryAnn Green; Julie and Bob Griffiths; Jim and Mary Heverling; Donald and Joan Hildebrand; Ray and Vicki Hodrick; Barbara and Joe Iwanski; David and Kathy Jepko and family; Randy and Laurie Johnson; John and Jane Kaminski; Elizabeth Katona; the Kanezo family; Francis Koncewicz; JoAnn and Walt Kozlowski; Steve and Carole Krehel; Robert Lapinski and sons; John and Lynne Lawler; Fred and Dolores Lutz; Joe and Millie McDonnell; Nancy Marshalick; Wendy Marshalick; Lillian Mathias; Ted and Jackie Matlow; Deb Matulewicz; Don and Marian Myers; Fritz and Eleanor O'Hearn; Joan and Gene Owens; Mr. and Mrs. Michael Pitcavage; David and Anne Pizzoli; Irene Powis; Mary M. Rudisill; Agnes and Cindy Saukaitis; Frank and Mary Sawicki; Nancy Schu; Jerry Scisly; Clara Shuda and family; Rita and Ziggy Sienkiewicz; Cal and Pearl Swank; Joe and Lucille Swatski; Bill Wagner; Amy Watkins family; Melanie Williams; Virginia Woznicki; Theresa Zukas; Aaron's Oil Co. Inc; Academy Sports Center; The Department of General Internal Medicine, Geisinger Medical Center; The Farmers Fire Insurance Company; The Weatherly Area School Districk and Weatherly Board of Directors; Friends from the Mount Carmel Area Public Library

Charles Moncavage from Barbara and Joe Iwanski; Frank and Mary Sawicki; Peggy Scicchitano and family; Timberwood Staff.

William D. Morris from Melanie Wengrenovich.

Jackie Butts Templin from Mount Carmel Class of 1957.

George John Palovick from Tom and Gayle Pivarnik and family; Kathy Ruchko; Robert and Brenda Taylor; Class of 1957.

D. Lorain Teufel from Thomas and Lisa Allen; Megan Allen and son and Kimberly and Steve Pesarchik; Ted and Jackie Matlow; Frank and Mary Sawicki; Mount Carmel Township Class of 1944.

Dr. Francis J. Viozzi from Michael and Ida Balichik.

Mary Ann Wray from Melanie Wengrenovich.

Sarah Yeager from Irene Powis.