SUNBURY - Attorney Richard Shoch, the top vote-getter in November's election for Northumberland County Commissioner, was appointed chairman of the new board Tuesday.

Shoch's selection during the reorganization meeting was preceded by Stephen Bridy's motion to nominate Vinny Clausi as chairman. Clausi, who has been at odds with Bridy on various issues since the Nov. 8 election, seemed surprised by the motion, but declined to accept the position because he made a commitment to appoint Shoch chairman since he was the top vote-getter.

"I appreciate your motion from the bottom of my heart, but I feel the top vote-getter should get it," Clausi told Bridy. "I can't accept the position at this time."

After Clausi declined the appointment, Clausi nominated Shoch as chairman. Bridy then seconded the nomination.

Clausi and Bridy were appointed vice chairman and secretary of the board, respectively.

After the meeting, Clausi admitted being surprised by Bridy's motion to appoint him chairman. "I'd love to have taken the chairmanship, but I made a commitment to Mr. Shoch after the election," Clausi said.

Asked why he nominated Clausi for the post, Bridy stated, "Sometimes experience trumps tradition. I know Rick (Shoch) was the top vote-getter, but I thought Mr. Clausi's experience in understanding government and his willingness to help people would make him a good chairman. I'm confident we can all work together."

All three commissioners appeared a little nervous in the crowded meeting room, which was only natural considering the circumstances.

As mandated by county code and the county pension law, Shoch also will now serve as chairman of the salary and retirement boards. Controller Anthony Phillips will serve as secretary of the retirement board.

Clausi was appointed chairman of the election board, while Bridy and Shoch will serve as vice chairman and secretary, respectively.

Clausi, as the incumbent commissioner, also will serve as chairman of the county board of assessment appeals.

Shoch was appointed to the Northumberland County Conservation District Board of Directors for a one-year term.

Clausi accepted a position on the Central Susquehanna Cooperative Extension Association for a one-year term after Bridy declined the appointment. Clausi has served on the board for the past four years.

Shoch and Bridy will oversee Behavioral Health and Intellectual/Development Services.

Shoch was designated to oversee the courts, adult probation, information technology, domestic relations, PFA/custody office, juvenile court, public defenders' office, special conflicts office and veterans affairs.

Bridy will oversee CCIS, adult services, assessment office, workers' compensation, planning department, public safety department/911 center, tax claims office, recycling, Northumberland County Airport and county prison.

Clausi will monitor Area Agency on Aging, Children and Youth Services, maintenance, county engineer, human resources, security, weatherization, elections, transportation garage and finance department.

'Midnight appointments'

At the end of their regular meeting, in the only sign of any tension during Tuesday's formalities, Bridy directed assistant solicitor James J. Rosini to render a legal opinion in the future on what he described as "midnight appointments" made by the previous board.

Asked by Rosini what he meant by midnight appointments, Bridy said he was referring to appointments to various boards months before their terms expired.

After the meeting, Bridy said Clausi and former commissioners Frank Sawicki and Merle Phillips made appointments between October and December to positions that expired at the end of the year, but he didn't name any of the committees, agencies or boards the appointees were named to when pressed for details.

Clausi stated, "There were no midnight appointments made. We can't wait until the new year to appoint people to positions when their terms expire Dec. 31."

He said the people who were appointed are all volunteers.

SUNBURY - Magisterial District Judge Hugh Alan Jones, who was among the officials sworn into office Tuesday, discussed the recent return of two important pieces of history to Courtroom No. 1.

Jones, a well-known local historian and attorney from Mount Carmel, discussed at the end of the inauguration ceremonies an oil painting portrait of Alexander Jordan, the first elected judge in Northumberland County, and an American eagle symbol.

Jones said the portrait was donated to the county when the courtroom opened in 1866 and remained there for many years before it was lost after being removed for renovations. He said the painting was returned to the county in 2004 by the Northumberland County Historical Society, which had acquired it from the Kauffman Library in Sunbury.

He said nobody knew who was depicted in the portrait until the historical society obtained it.

Jones said Jordan was elected the first judge in the county in 1850. Prior to that time, county judges were appointed by the governor. He said Jordan Township was named after the judge.

The portrait was recently installed on the wall in the back of the courtroom.

Jones also was instrumental in helping obtain a new American eagle symbol to replace one that hung above the judge's bench after being donated to the courthouse by Joseph Bird of Northumberland in 1867.

He said the original eagle symbol, whose wing spread measured 6 feet, stood on a shield with the stars and stripes. It was made by Earle and Son of Philadelphia at a cost of $100.

Jones explained that when the historical society filmed the trial of Peter McManus of Molly Maguire fame about seven years ago, attempts were made to obtain an eagle so the courtroom would resemble the period in 1878 when the actual trial took place.

Under the direction of Northumberland County President Judge Robert B. Sacavage, who played Judge Rockefeller in the film, Jones said a new eagle symbol was purchased in October 2011 in Rhode Island and recently installed behind the judge's bench.

Jones dedicated the American eagle symbol to deceased members of the Northumberland County Bar Association who practiced before the bench and sat behind it, while dedicating their lives to the practice of law.

Jones, who noted Courtroom No. 2 wasn't added to the courthouse until 1914 when the county population had significantly increased, said Courtroom No. 1 served as one of the largest assembly halls in the county and also was used for political conventions and public events. He said the architecture remains similar today, with the exception of a balcony that is no longer in the back of the room.

He said the courthouse has undergone many renovations through the years, the most extensive in 1914.

THARPTOWN - Three days into the formation of Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital, staff and administration gathered Tuesday to welcome the 300 employees of the Coal Township hospital to the Geisinger Health System.

Officials from Geisinger Medical Center (GMC) and Shamokin Area Community Hospital (SACH) joined with employees in the morning for a reception marking the merger of the two hospitals. The event from 7 to 9 a.m. for first- and third-shift employees was the first of two receptions. The other, from 3 to 4 p.m., accommodated second-shift employees on the first official business day at the institution since Sunday's merger.

Tom Sokola and Tom Harlow, chief administrative officers for GMC and Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital, a Campus of Geisinger Medical Center, respectively, greeted employees with refreshments and gifts of pens and I.D. badge lanyards.

"In talking with a lot of employees today, there certainly is a bit of excitement in the air," Sokola said during the afternoon reception. "There's a little bit of nervous energy as well, but everyone is excited about it."

Employees and others have already been abbreviating the lengthy new hospital name - a name created not only by the merger, but also by the necessity of state regulations - as Geisinger-SACH, or "G-SACH."

The first official day of the merger, which required approval by two state agencies, was marked with every employee working at midnight Sunday receiving a small bottle of sparkling apple cider and logo-branded cookies as the merger took effect.

SACH, which marks its 100th anniversary in 2012, and Geisinger, which is just three years younger, are nonprofit entities, and they'll remain that way. A ceremony to mark SACH's centennial and also the merger is set for 9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, at G-SACH.

300 join 14,000

The approximately 300 employees of SACH became Geisinger employees as of Sunday, and no layoffs are planned because of the merger, officials said previously. The employee count throughout the expansive Geisinger Health System is 14,000.

After some 18 months of talks, the merger was first announced on Nov. 23, 2010, representing the most significant change in local health care since the state divestiture of hospitals two decades ago. That divestiture almost spelled the end of the former Shamokin General Hospital, but a strong board of directors and community support were credited for its survival, and over the next two decades the campus underwent significant renovations while a collaboration with Geisinger grew, too.

Attitudes 'remarkable'

Geisinger President and CEO Glenn Steele Jr., M.D., along with Sokola and Harlow, addressed the future in a news release issued by GMC.

"Geisinger is committed to the traditions of quality and service that characterize Shamokin," Steele said. "We are just beginning to consider the extraordinary possibilities this merger represents for the people of Coal Township. As we bring this talented group of individuals together, we're certain a much stronger, more dynamic health care community will emerge."

"Over the past several months, numerous staff members from both Geisinger and Shamokin partnered tirelessly to make this merger a reality," Sokola was quoted in the release. "We thank the clinicians, technicians, support staff and everyone involved in making sure that this was a seamless transition for both patients and employees."

"This is an exciting time," Harlow said. "We are proud of our history of caring here in Coal Township, and confident that our new relationship with Geisinger will enable us to build on a century of service to this community."

At the afternoon reception, Harlow and Sokola talked further about the transition. "There are some new processes and programs to learn, and the staff and physicians have been working with that," Harlow said. "The attitude of everyone at both campuses has been remarkable."

"Throughout the transition, there have been minor problems, but everything is going as well as can be expected," Sokola said. "The timing with it happening over the weekend, when the hospital wasn't fully functioning, was a big help."

Records in one system

Linda Musser, director of information technology, said all medical records were added to the Geisinger database ahead of time so that when 12:01 a.m. Sunday hit, all patient records were accessible in one system.

"Patients who have access to the MyGeisinger website will now see information from Shamokin hospital visits as well," Musser said. "It's all on one record that any doctor, even from a laptop at home or office, can access on as-needed basis."

Approvals for the merger, including regulatory approval by the state Attorney General and the Department of Health, were granted last summer.

Patients will continue to access all existing services and eventually additional services at G-SACH, including 24/7 emergency services.

Better future

"The main thing that is coming from all this, is that the exceptional care that comes from the employees of Geisinger, whether in Shamokin or anywhere throughout the system, will not change," said Susan Hallack, chief nursing officer for the Geisinger Health System.

"The merger is good news for the hospital, our patients and employees, and the Shamokin community," Harlow was quoted in the news release. "Serving the area as a campus of Geisinger Medical Center will better enable us to promote quality, cost-effective care and enhanced access to services, as well as ensure future access to health care in Shamokin."

 Merger notes

Founded: GMC, 1915; SACH, 1912.

Service area: Geisinger Health System, based in Danville, serves more than 2.6 million residents throughout 44 counties in central and northeastern Pennsylvania; SACH, located in Tharptown, Coal Township, serves central, eastern and southern Northumberland County and surrounding communities in Columbia, Schuylkill and other counties.

Beds: At GMC in Danville, 495, plus 40 in joint venture with Health South Rehab hospital on the campus; at Shamokin, 70 (45 acute care; 15 skilled nursing; 10 in-patient geriatric-psychiatry).

Employees: Geisinger Health System, 14,000; G-SACH, 300.

Unions: GMC does not recognize unions. SACH had two unions representing about 80 percent of its workforce; one union has already decertified the other union and its contract are no longer recognized by the hospital as of Sunday's merger.

Pay and benefits: Rates for SACH employees will remain mostly unchanged, although some could see raises. G-SACH employees now receive GMC's benefits plan.

Insurances/services: The same services remain for patients at SACH, and it will accept the same insurance providers as before. The state required that G-SACH continue to accept the same Medicare Advantage plans for three years, even though there are four that Geisinger doesn't currently accept.

SUNBURY - Tuesday's inauguration ceremonies at Northumberland County Courthouse ushered in a new and historic era in county politics, with the challenges of another tough fiscal year ahead not lost amid the festive atmosphere.

Sworn into office were Judge Charles H. Saylor, Commissioners Vinny Clausi, Attorney Richard Shoch and Stephen Bridy, Sheriff Chad Reiner, District Attorney Anthony Rosini, Controller Anthony Phillips, Treasurer Kevin Gilroy and Magisterial District Judges Robert Bolton, John Gembic III, Hugh Alan Jones and Benjamin Apfelbaum.

For the first time in the history of the county, the three commissioners represent three different political parties - incumbent Clausi a Democrat and newcomers Bridy and Shoch Independent and Republican, respectively. They showed unity later Tuesday, however, when they voted unanimously to reopen the 2012 budget to address a projected shortfall of more than $1 million. (See separate story.)

The hour-long festivities included brief remarks by each of the new and incumbent officeholders, welcoming and closing comments by President Judge Robert B. Sacavage, re-dedication of a painting of the county's first elected judge and dedication of a replacement of the American eagle symbol in Courtroom No. 1.

Each of the officeholders said they were honored and humbled to serve and vowed to work hard for Northumberland County. They also thanked families, staff and friends for their support throughout the campaign.

"This is an auspicious occasion. Today is a celebration of American democracy," Sacavage said in opening the 11 a.m. ceremony. "The words administered in the oaths of office have meaning and consequences. Each of these officerholders will swear to be faithful to the laws of the United States."

'Best days ahead'

Clausi, 58, who was elected to his second four-year term, is a Coal Township businessman. Shoch, 45, a political newcomer who was the high vote-getter in the Nov. 8 general election, is an attorney from Sunbury. Bridy, 40, a resident of Elysburg who has had a career as a financial adviser, was the first Independent candidate to be elected county commissioner in his initial bid for political office.

"My record speaks for itself," said Clausi, who was sworn in by Sacavage. "I will continue to do my job and I ask the people of Northumberland County to have faith in me, because I will protect you for the next four years."

Ombudsman/administrative secretary Karen Collier and administrative assistant Janet Povish from the county commissioners' office served as witnesses for Clausi.

Northumberland County Judge William H. Wiest administered the oath of office to Shoch and Bridy.

"I want to thank the citizens of Northumberland County for having faith in me," Shoch said. "I will endeavor to fulfill my duties to the best of my ability and will work hard for Northumberland County. We are facing some challenges, but I believe Northumberland County's best days are ahead."

Bridy thanked the voters who supported him and the other candidates.

"I want to thank everyone who voted on Nov. 8," he said. "I plan to work the hardest I can to help the people of Northumberland County. Thank you and God bless."

Shoch's wife, Paula, and their four children, Natalie, Lily, Eric and Brady, served as witnesses, as did Bridy's wife, Kimberly, and their four children, Phoebe Victoria, Hannah Isabella, Stephen Victor and Thomas Angelo.

Saylor starts term

Saylor, a Republican who was retained for his second 10-year term as judge, was sworn into office by Sacavage.

"I am honored and humbled to continue as judge," he said. "I have many roles and wear different hats as judge and face difficult decisions on a regular basis. I hope everyone works together for the good of the county, particularly the children. I look forward to the next term in office."

Reiner, a Democrat, was sworn into office for his third four-year term by Sacavage. His wife, Stephanie, and their son, Josh, served as witnesses.

Rosini, a Democrat elected to his fifth four-year term in November, was administered the oath of office by Sacavage, who preceded him as district attorney. Rosini's wife, Melinda, his mother, Margaret Rosini, and his sister, Rose Zawalick, served as witnesses.

Rosini, whose office caseload has increased from 900 to 1,500 per year, stated, "Our job is to seek justice in Northumberland County and I pledge to continue to keep people safe."

Phillips, a Republican appointed to the position last year, was elected to his first four-year term. He was sworn into office by Wiest while his grandfather, Fred Phillips, held the Bible.

"The job has been challenging and rewarding and I will continue to be the watchdog for county finances," he said. "We must all work together and I thank the voters for putting their trust in me. I believe the county has a bright future."

Gilroy, a Republican elected to his first four-year term also after previously being appointed, was sworn into office by Wiest. Gilroy's wife, Carolyn, held the Bible for her husband.

Magistrates installed

Bolton, a Republican sworn into office by Saylor for his fourth six-year term, chose state constable Harold "Butch" Showers to serve as his witness. Bolton, whose office is located in Milton, presides over cases in the northern end of the county.

Gembic, a Democrat whose office covers the Shamokin area, had his daughter, Elizabeth, hold the Bible while Sacavage administered the oath of office. He was elected to his third six-year term in November.

Jones, a Democrat whose office covers the Mount Carmel area, was sworn into office by Sacavage. He was elected to his first six-year term. His wife, Yvonne, held the Bible during the swearing-in ceremony.

Apfelbaum, a Republican sworn into office by Wiest, begins his first six-year term. His office covers the Sunbury area. Serving as witnesses were his parents, Attorney Jeffrey and Susan Apfelbaum; his wife, Stephanie, and their son, Rudy.

Wiest presented Apfelbaum with his first gavel, which was purchased by the new magistrate's parents.

The courtroom was packed for the inauguration ceremonies. Various county and state officials were in attendance, including outgoing two-term county commissioner Frank Sawicki, state Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107) and Lynda Schlegel Culver, register and recorder Mary Zimmerman, prothonotary Kathleen Wolfe Strausser, chief clerk Gary Steffen, court administrator Brandy Yasenchak, deputy court administrator Kevin O'Hearn and assistant solicitor James J. Rosini, who is also a former county judge and district attorney.

SUNBURY - The newly installed Northumberland County Board of Commissioners unanimously agreed Tuesday to reopen the 2012 budget one week after it was approved by the former board on a split vote.

Commissioners Vinny Clausi, Richard Shoch and Stephen Bridy passed a motion to reopen the $68.2 million spending plan and make proper revisions before Feb. 15, which is the deadline for final adoption of the budget.

Controller Anthony Phillips applauded the commissioners' decision.

"The last four years there have been stagnant revenues and rising expenses," he said. "The prior board kept it off the taxpayers' backs by cutting costs, liquidating assets (particularly the sale of the former Mountain View Manor), divesting the county of underperforming departments (transportation) and refinancing of bonds."

He added, "It's important to reopen the budget so we can get a solid grip on what needs to happen in 2012. ... We want to make sure we get this one right because it could be devastating if we don't."

Phillips said the county ended 2010 with a $1 million cash balance, but predicted the county ended 2011 with a deficit in excess of $1 million due to pension contribution increases and decreases in state funding for Children and Youth programs.

He commended Clausi for voting against the budget at last week's meeting when it was approved by outgoing Commissioners Frank Sawicki and Merle Phillips.

"It's necessary to do what's right with the budget," Clausi said. "We don't have the money and some cuts are coming, but we can't lay off any more people."

Last week, Bridy claimed Clausi's vote against the 2012 budget and suggestion to reopen it in the new year was a political move to make the incoming board look bad.

But on Tuesday, Bridy agreed to reopen the budget, without going into any detail.

At the end of the meeting, Clausi announced eight employees have agreed to forgo their 2 1/2 percent pay increase in 2012, which will save the county $10,649.09.

Not taking the increase are chief clerk Gary Steffen (current salary $48,572.94), budget director Jeff McClintock ($71,483.88), human resources director Joseph Picarelli ($59,471.88), ombudsman/administrative secretary Karen Collier ($28,890.94), administrative assistant Janet Povish ($34,126.82), assistant solicitor James J. Rosini ($34,126.82), solicitor Frank Garrigan ($41,520.96) and tax assessment director Al Bressi ($50,126.96).

The commissioners commended the employees for their sacrifice.

"We have to tighten our belts," Shoch said, "and I appreciate the sacrifices those employees are making."

STONINGTON - The same officials were reappointed to all positions during the reorganization of the Shamokin Township Board of Supervisors Tuesday night.

Tom Carl was re-elected chairman and Greg Rachau was appointed vice chairman. Stephanie McKinney was appointed secretary and treasurer with a $25 increase in pay per month.

Other appointments were: Jon Clements, roadmaster and council of governments (COG) representative; Jeff Murphy, assistant roadmaster and COG alternate; Jim Bathgate, legal counsel; Bob Swank, vacancy board chairman; Northumberland National Bank and Pennsylvania Local Government Investment Trust, depositories; Dr. Ken Young, sewage officer, driveway and building permit officer, township code officer, township engineer and flood plain management administrator; Berkheimer Tax Associates, delinquent tax collector and Act 50 Tax Hearing Officer; Stephanie McKinney, representative to the Northumberland County Tax Collection Committee, with John Klinger as alternate; George Wolfe, emergency management coordinator; Jack Epler, agriculture security board, and the supervisors as Right-to-Know liaisons.

The board also approved a 5 percent wage increase for the township's two road crew workers, Clements and Murphy, and a $120 uniform allowance per quarter, There was no change made in the vacation policy and paid holidays for workers. Terry Krebs was appointed to another term on the municipal authority board.

Following the reorganization meeting, the board held its regular meeting for January. In his report, solicitor Bathgate discussed an agreement by PennDOT involving the township and a private landowner to allow a contractor to come onto their properties to clean underneath a bridge along Route 61. Bathgate did not see anything wrong with the agreement, and noted that there was a clause for each party to retain property rights.

Wolfe, president of Stonington Fire Company, thanked the township for its contribution of $10,000 for the company's new brush truck. He then asked the board to approve its $2,000 fuel allowance for 2012. The board unanimously approved it and also picked up the $350.14 cost for fuel incurred during the Flood of 2011.

It was announced that Berkheimer will be printing the township tax bills for 2012, which will be received on time.

HERNDON - Two new members, Judith Deppen and Alexis Schaffner, joined borough council here Tuesday night following their Nov. 8 election.

Joel Wetzel will remain council president, with Barry Hughes as vice president. Kurvin Badorf is the fifth member of council. Richard Sweppenhiser is the mayor.

Meetings will continue to be held at 7 p.m. the first Monday of each month.

In other business, the borough passed an ordinance approving Berkheimer Tax Administrator, Bangor, as the township's tax collection agency.

HERNDON - Jackson Township Board of Supervisors reorganized Tuesday, but there was no change to the board structure.

LaVerne "Vern" Foreman will serve again as chairman and assistant roadmaster. Paul Witmer remains vice chairman and municipal records officer and Lester Neitz will serve again as roadmaster.

Audrey Maurer was renamed secretary-treasurer at an annual salary of $9,000, up from $8,500, and she will also serve as local services tax collector.

Hourly compensation for supervisors when doing work for the township beyond their supervisor duties was set at $14 per hour, up from $13. The positions previously differentiated between "manual laborer" and "equipment operator" were consolidated into "employee" and work will be compensated at the rate of $12 per hour. Mileage reimbursement will remain at 50 cents per mile.

Terry Snyder was named vacancy board member and Dennis Williard building permit officer. The elected tax collector is Janice Weikel, while auditors will be Arletta Ney, Dawn Derk and Rebekah Witmer. Mike Brown was named sewage enforcement officer with Brian McFeaters as alternate. Emergency management coordinator is Tony Gilligan.

Meetings will continue to be 7:30 p.m. the first Monday of each month.

Tax collection motions

Two motions were passed during the regular meeting, which followed the reorganization meeting, both centering on tax collection. The first was a resolution to approve Berkheimer Tax Administrator, Bangor, as the township's tax collection agency. The second was to accept its collection rates.

Conversation prior to passing the resolutions centered around the notion that there was not much choice in the matter due to litigation involving the Northumberland County Tax Collection Committee, which was ordered by the court to contract with Berkheimer for the collection of countywide earned income taxes after the committee failed to agree on a firm. Foreman said he attended a recent committee meeting representing Jackson and Washington townships and Herndon Borough and was the only one present representing local municipalities.

"You are just filling a spot, so why go?" Witmer commented.

Thirty-eight mostly smaller municipalities lost their bid to reject weighted voting by the committee, which played a role in the selection of Berkheimer.

DALMATIA - Lower Mahanoy Township Board of Supervisors reorganized Tuesday night. Larry Adams remains chairman and roadmaster, and Ken Schlegel is vice chairman. The third supervisor is Cyril Shaffer.

Carol J. Witmer is the board secretary-treasurer, Mike Brown is sewage enforcement officer, Wiest, Muolo, Noon and Swinehart is the township solicitor and Code Inspections Inc., Montgomery, oversees building permits.

Township police will continue to be operated by Randall Wynn.

Meetings will continue to be held at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month.

In other business, the board passed an ordinance approving Berkheimer Tax Administrator, Bangor, as the township's tax collection agency.

TREVORTON - There were no change in the officers among the Zerbe Township Board of Supervisors following a reorganization meeting Tuesday night.

Michael Schwartz was retained as chairman while Mike Mazer remains secretary/treasurer and Harry Rebuck roadmaster. All appointments were approved by a 2-0 vote with the person nominated abstaining.

Other reappointments made were Wiest, Muolo, Noon and Swinehart law firm as solicitor, Union Bank and Trust as depository, William F. Hill and Associates Inc. as engineers, Douglas Parker, CPA, as auditor, Ellen Troutman as township clerk and open records officers, Jerome Bulchie in maintenance, Edwin Reed as sewer operator, Steven Stiely and William Breinich as laborers, Robert John as police chief and George Renn on the vacancy board.

New appointments made were Berkheimer Tax Administrator as earned-income tax collector, Joshua Moyer as a part-time police officer, Craig Scott, David Miller, Angela Wilkinson and Melissa Tharp as members of the recreation committee, and Dean Sampsell, David Miller and Larry Coutlee as the township's board of appeals.

Raises, flooding, ATVs

The board also held its January monthly meeting Tuesday night with a number of issues discussed, including the approval of a 3-percent raise for all township employees by a unanimous vote. Employees and their new pay rates are as follows: street workers Jerome Bulchie, $15.55 an hour, and William Breining, $9.81 an hour; sewer workers Edwin Reed, $16.24 an hour, and Steven Stiely, $10.14 an hour, and township secretary Ellen Township, $11.94 an hour.

On Dec. 20, Schwartz and Rebuck met with representatives of the federal and Pennsylvania emergency management agencies for a tour where flooding had severely affected Zerbe Township, including areas of Zerbe Run. The next step, Schwartz said, is to get documentation and apply for funding.

Board members talked about the $1.5 million grant received by Northumberland County for the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA), which includes property in Zerbe and four other townships. The supervisors hope Reading Anthracite will meet with the township to discuss using the "Flats" as a second welcoming area for the AOAA, and to discuss issues of ATV riding at Coal Hill. It is their hope that if the company won't meet with the township directly, the county would discuss the matter on the township's behalf and that the county will continue to contact Reading on the township's behalf.

A resolution was passed to submit an application for Pennsylvania Infrastructure and Investment Authority (PennVEST) funding for refurbishing the township's sewer plant.

The township was informed it was awarded a $2,041 grant for its recycling efforts from the state Department of Environmental Protection, but denied a grant from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to resurface tennis courts.

Christmas trees will be picked up by township employees until Friday, Jan. 13.

Paving in Northumberland today

MONTOURSVILLE - A PennDOT maintenance crew is scheduled to perform pavement patching on Route 11 southbound (Front Street) between A Street and Sheets Avenue in Northumberland Borough today and Friday.

The public is advised that there will be no parking on either side of the street from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

Northumberland Borough has been notified and will place "No Parking" signs in the work area, as well.

'Keep Kids Warm' drive

SHAMOKIN - Anyone in need of winter clothing, such as coats, hats and gloves, for children may contact Central Susquehanna Opportunities, Inc. at 644-6575 ext. 171. between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. This program is sponsored by Brewser's SportsGrille, Coal Township.

Culver announces Herndon office hours

SUNBURY - To bring state government services to the people of Northumberland County, Rep. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-Northumberland/Snyder) will hold office hours from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Jackson Township Municipal Building, 145 Jackson Township Road, Herndon.

"I realize that with the winter weather in full force, not all residents are able to make it to our Sunbury office, and that is why I want to make my office available to everyone in the 108th District, regardless of where they live," Culver said. "I invite anyone who has questions, or is in need of information on state programs and services, to come and see me during these office hours."

This visiting office is part of an ongoing effort by Culver to bring constituent services to various portions of Northumberland and Snyder counties.

ELYSBURG - Daniel Williams was sworn in as the newest member of the Ralpho Township Board of Supervisors at the reorganization meeting Tuesday evening.

William "Chip" Wetzel was also sworn in after being re-elected for another term.

By unanimous vote, Wetzel was named the new chairman, with Stephen Major accepting the roll of vice chairman.

The former chairman was Ed Payeski, who did not seek re-election and is no longer on the board.

As his first order of business, Wetzel conducted motions to reappointment of township positions: Joseph Springer, manager; Debra Olson, secretary/treasurer; Schlesinger and Kerstetter, solicitor; Larson Design Group, engineer; Forgett and Kerstetter, certified public accountant; Pligit and M&T Bank, designate depositories; Charlene Ziegler, real estate tax certifier, Act 511 tax collector and delinquent tax collector; Berkheimer Tax Administrator, tax collector for LST taxes; Central Tax Bureau of Pennsylvania Inc., tax collector for earned income taxes; Statewide Recovery, delinquent tax collector for township per capita and occupational taxes; Howard Howal, code enforcement officer, uniform construction code officer and building code officer; Howard Shadduck, roadmaster; Bill Brior, primary sewage enforcement officer, and Bruce Dobash, alternate sewage enforcement officer.

Reappointments were also approved by the board for John Yost to a one-year term on the vacancy board; Donald J. Spotts to a one-year term as emergency management coordinator; Francis Berger to a three-year term on the zoning hearing board; Robert L. Dluge Jr. to a one-year term as solicitor to the zoning hearing board; Major to a five-year term on the township municipal authority; Harvey Boyer, Brent Rhoades and Dan Yost to four-year terms on the planning commission; and Dave Noll and Cathy Kessler to two-year appointments as auditors.

Two positions remain unfilled, a five-year term on the authority and a two-year appointment as auditor for the Sunnyside/Overlook area.

Wetzel told supervisors that at the time of the meeting he was not yet prepared to appoint committee and department heads.

In other business:

- Supervisors voted to make a donation to the Ralpho Township Library in memory of Judith Horne, who died Dec. 24. Judith was the wife of township employee Doyle Horne.

- Previous month's minutes, treasurer's report and bills list were accepted as presented. Department reports were presented for streets, zoning, police and public safety, and recreation. Manager's, solicitor's and engineers reports were also submitted.

SUNBURY - The house arrest/electronic monitoring program conducted by the Northumberland County Probation/Parole Department saved the county $492,120 in incarceration costs last year.

During his monthly report to the county prison board Wednesday, chief adult probation officer Dave Wondoloski said there were 528 participants in the program last year, which resulted in 12,303 inmate days being saved and an overall savings of $492,120.

Wondoloski, who noted the program expanded last year with the hiring of a second officer, said the self-funded, offender-paid program is working well and thanked the prison board for their support. He said participants pay $450 per month.

In December, Wondoloski said there were 50 participants, which resulted in 1,117 inmate days being saved and $44,680 in savings to the county.

Currently, there are 40 participants in the program.

District Attorney Tony Rosini and President Judge Robert B. Sacavage said the house arrest/electronic monitoring program has been very successful in reducing the prison population and commended Wondoloski and his staff for coordinating the self-sufficient program.

'Central booking' update

Rosini updated the board on a proposal to establish a central booking center in the remodeled basement area of the prison.

He said efforts are being made to acquire grants that would pay for the necessary equipment to operate the central booking center.

"There is space available in the basement for the countywide operation that would involve defendants being kept at the prison overnight until they can be arraigned the next day," Rosini said.

The district attorney said the self-funded center also would provide fingerprinting and video arraignments that would free up police to handle other calls.

Rosini, who noted cost estimates are still being sought for equipment, stated, "The center would be a win-win situation for public safety, the community and police departments."

Warden Roy Johnson said the current prison population is 214, including 181 males and 33 females. He said one male inmate is being housed outside the county.

Johnson said Northumberland County Prison is currently housing four inmates from Union County, 11 from Montour County and one from Columbia County. He said the county generated approximately $100,000 in 2011 by housing inmates from other counties.

He said renovations conducted by in-house laborers at the prison during the past couple years has increased the maximum population to 302. He said the highest prison population last month was 228 on Dec. 4, with the lowest being 203 on Dec. 22.

Rosini commended Johnson for significantly reducing overtime at the prison last year.

Bridy new chairman

The board also held a brief reorganization meeting in which Commissioner Stephen Bridy was elected chairman. Bridy was nominated for the post by Commissioner Vinny Clausi, whose motion was seconded by Sacavage.

Sacavage and Controller Tony Phillips were elected vice chairman and secretary, respectively.

Other prison board members in attendance were Commissioner Rick Shoch and Sheriff Chad Reiner.

Johnson invited the new commissioners to take a tour of the prison any time.

KULPMONT - A dump truck hauling 23 tons of fine coal flipped and spilled its load at the entrance of a convenience store on Chestnut Street late Wednesday morning.

Rudolph Vorndran Jr., of Altoona, was driving a Peterbilt north on Chestnut Street (Route 61) at about 9:40 a.m. after picking up a load of coal - 46,480 pounds, according to his receipt from Harmony Mine outside of Mount Carmel.

Vorndran said he had crossed the intersection with Sixth Street when northbound traffic abruptly stopped. He didn't have enough time to come to a full stop and avoid a chain-reaction crash, he said, and he couldn't drive into the southbound lane as a heating oil truck was stopped there, as well.

"I would have crunched the back of a white van and then he would have hit someone else," Vorndran said at the scene. "I didn't want to drive into traffic.

"Rather than do that, I whipped it into the lot."

Vorndran made a sharp right turn into the parking lot of the Fuel On Convenience Store, as evidenced by the skid marks left on the road. His load shifted and the truck tipped over, coming to rest at the edge of the lot and just feet from crashing into a residential trailer at 618 Chestnut St. and a vehicle parked in front - not to mention the gas pumps a short distance away.

The coal spilled mostly onto the sidewalk in front of the trailer, some of it spilling into the yard and some onto the street.

Carl Marchetti was watching TV inside his home at 620 Chestnut St. when the accident occurred and was startled by the noise of the crash.

"I thought the gas station exploded. That's what it sounded like," he said while stepping just far enough outside his front door and into the frigid cold to have a look.

"It's lucky no one was walking there."

Police Chief Richard Wilson confirmed that no one was injured, adding that Vorndran was cited for careless driving.

Chestnut Street was initially closed to traffic from passenger vehicles between Sixth and Seventh streets, while large commercial vehicles and school busses were allowed to pass through instead of attempting to navigate the borough's narrow back streets.

A wrecker from Sunbury Motors was expected to arrive on scene to set the Peterbilt upright. The company was also expected to send a crew to clean up the coal.

The scene was cleared and normal traffic flow resumed at 1:50 p.m.

The truck is owned by Black Hawk Trucking Inc., Cresson.

Assisting Wilson at the scene were volunteers of Kulpmont Fire Department and Mount Carmel Fire Police.

by justin strawser

SHAMOKIN - The director positions of public safety and parks/recreation for the city of Shamokin were the only two changes during the reorganization meeting Wednesday night.

The former public safety director William Milbrand and the former parks/recreation director R. Craig Rhoades switched positions by a unanimous vote of 5-0.

"It's time for a change," Mayor George Rozinskie said following the meeting.

Neither Milbrand nor Rhoades - who were both sworn in again as councilmen at the beginning of the meeting - offered any comment concerning the decision.

Otherwise, Councilman William Strausser was reappointed the director of accounts and finances, and Councilman Michael Snyder was reappointed the director of public works.

During the workshop meeting, Solicitor H. Robert Mattis Jr. informed the board that any decision regarding the Shamokin-Coal Township Joint Sewer Authority would have to wait until the February meeting.

The authority is looking to city council and the Coal Township Board of Commissioners to guarantee a $17.6 million, low-interest USDA loan that would help with funding the sewer plant expansion and upgrade project.

If there is no guarantee, the loan offer will be rescinded, forcing the authority to fund the project by bond issued at a higher interest rate. With the USDA loan, a rate hike likely wouldn't be needed; without it, rates could rise $4 to $6 a month, which would come on top of a $19.50 monthly rate hike that took effect in October.

Mattis said the authority will not have the necessary information available by their regular meeting Monday, so the first reading of any potential resolution supporting the authority's request will have to wait until the second Monday of February.

In other business, Council:

- Renewed their union contract with the street department. Additionally, they hired Samuel Madara to the department full-time at a starting rate of $9.50, and benefits once the 90-day probation period is completed.

- Will be seeking Requests For Proposals (RFPs) from Brinkash and Associates, Ashland, Catino Michael PE, Shamokin, and any other interested companies to be the city's engineer. They had been hiring Larson Design, Harrisburg, as needed, but want a full-time engineer.

- Will also be advertising for new members of the planning commission.

By Eric Scicchitano

The impact Jean Louise Stellfox had on her former students continues to prove a lasting one.

So highly regarded, the former Shamokin Area literature teacher has become a folk hero of sorts - stories of her passionate, cultured and disciplined approach to education passed along to those who never studied in her classroom.

"I never met Miss Stellfox, but I knew who she was all my life," said Amy Shadle, an English teacher at Shamokin Area. "I grew up listening to my dad talk about her. My dad, a man who appears to have no real interest in classic literature, would talk about what he learned in her class. He would even talk about Shakespeare.

"In fact, whenever I bring up her name to former students of hers, I get the same reaction," she continued. "They tell me about what they learned in her class 15, 30 and 40 years ago."

Stellfox's legend has also inspired action in her own name.

One group of former students is working to finalize the Jean Stellfox Memorial Award, an annual scholarship to be presented to a Shamokin Area graduate.

Another former student helped make reality an official visit to Stellfox's alma mater, Dickinson College, made by current Shamokin Area students and one that could become a yearly trip.

"We just loved her. I knew even in seventh grade she was going to be the best teacher I'd ever have," said Debbie (Johnson) Noonan, Shamokin Area Class of 1970, who along with classmates Cindy (Sarge) Poboy, John Taby and others, helped in the creation of the memorial award.

"Every year when I'd get my schedule I hoped it would be her, but it never was after the seventh grade."

Taby said it was Stellfox who taught him to read beyond the printed word, to interpret the meaning an author was trying to convey, when he took her literature course, Religious Literature of the Western World, as an elective his senior year.

"She affected my life forever," he said.

Stellfox award

Stellfox was killed more than eight years ago by a hit-and-run driver while crossing West Third Street in Mount Carmel. It's a case that remains unsolved.

In the wake of her death, many were stunned to learn she had amassed a savings of $1.5 million, probably less so that she left the majority of it to her beloved Dickinson.

Her donation established the college's Harold and Ethel L. Stellfox Visiting Scholars and Writers Program, allowing the tiny Cumberland County school to bring in some of literature's most acclaimed writers for residency, during which they hold seminars, host readings, sit in on classes and even have lunch with students.

The award was inspired by Stellfox's own brush with American literature royalty when, in 1959, famed poet Robert Frost came to the Dickinson campus, a visit that moved Stellfox to become a literature teacher.

British author Ian McEwan, author of "Atonement" and winner of the Man Booker Prize for Fiction in 1998 for "Amsterdam," was the inaugural recipient of the Stellfox Award in 2005. Other winners include Edward Albee, a three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, including for "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?," and Richard Russo, who won a Pulitzer for "Empire Falls."

All of the recipients pose for a photo on the steps of Old West at Dickinson, the writers surrounded by staff and students mimicking a photo from Frost's visit.

In that photo, to Frost's right, sits Stellfox.

Campus visit

This year's recipient was Margaret Atwood, who won the Booker Prize in 2000 for "The Blind Assassin."

It was Taby's daughter, Sarah, a 1997 graduate of Shamokin Area, who helped set up the visit to Dickinson made by Shamokin Area students during Atwood's visit in November.

A Dickinson senior, Mary Kate Skehan, an English major researching the Stellfox Award, was put in touch with Sarah Taby by her friend and Dickinson's associate director of admissions, Molly Boegel.

"'She's life changing. She's amazing. She was one of the first people to really help me see myself as a learner, to give me that kind of acknowledgement,'" Boegel recalled Sarah Taby's impression of Stellfox.

In speaking to Skehan about Stellfox, Sarah Taby said she wished students of Shamokin Area could benefit from the Stellfox Award project. Skehan and Boegel then brainstormed to pitch the idea to Dickinson brass, who gave the November visit the go-ahead.

Shadle, her colleague, Patty Rhoads, and five Shamokin Area juniors - all girls with high interest in literature - made the trip.

"It was very exciting to learn about Miss Stellfox and the influence she had on other people," said student Courtney McGrath. "It was also pretty cool that because of her generosity, Dickinson has a famous author come to the school each year."

"I think this is exactly what she'd want to see happen," Boegel said of Stellfox, adding she thought the visits would carry on. "She gave her life to Shamokin, to the students, and then her life savings to Dickinson.

"To see those two things come together in this event ... I think this is exactly what she would have hoped to happen."

Don't forget

Final details on the annual scholarship in Stellfox's name have yet to be hashed out, and important ones at that: to whom it will be awarded and just how much. That said, the group behind the project seems determined to make the scholarship reality.

"We want to make sure her name's not forgotten. Her death was so untimely and there's no justice to that yet. It's an open-ended thing and we don't want anybody to forget about her," said John Taby.

For information on the Stellfox scholarship project, email Noonan at booknazi22@yahoo.com or Poboy at obxdreams1@gmail.com, or search Jean Stellfox Memorial Award on Facebook.

For more on the Harold and Ethel L. Stellfox Visiting Scholars and Writers Program, visit http://bit.ly/wN1GkT.

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a holiday filled with family, friends, love and laughter. What I like most about the New Year is what it brings - hope, possibilities and discoveries, a clean slate. For all backyard tourists, seasoned or brand new, I want you to look at the Susquehanna River Valley as a clean slate to discover and enjoy.

What a better place to start than getting outside and enjoying all that Mother Nature has to offer. Since the region isn't widely known as a winter destination, we often overlook the opportunities for outdoor fun that are nearby. R.B. Winter State Park offers five miles of park trails that provide easy skiing and showshoeing, with connecting trails and roads on surrounding state forest land. Registered snowmobiles are permitted on designated park roads which lead to more than 300 miles of roads and trails in the Bald Eagle State Forest. Be sure to read February's column to learn more about next month's SnowFest at R.B. Winter State Park.

The Linn Conservancy is hosting a free afternoon of cross-country skiing and showshoeing beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Dale/Engle/Walker property. Snowshoes are provided, but skiers must bring their own skis. Participants will end their outdoor excursion with a bonfire and hot chocolate.

Birds of a feather flock together Saturday with Seven Mountains Audubon, the area's local Audubon chapter, heading out for a local field trip starting at 7:30 a.m,

We can't talk about winter recreation without mentioning ice skating. The Sunbury and Lewisburg ice skating rinks are open for fun and exercise.

January offers a wide variety of options for music and theater lovers. The Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art hosts chili, corn bread and the blues at the Wooden Nickel Annex in Millersburg on Jan. 27, with HotWingJones as the featured entertainment. Also on Jan. 27, Bucknell University's Weis Performing Arts Center offers the Jupiter String Quartet with Jon Nakamatsu on the piano. On Feb. 3, Bucknell's Weis Performing Arts Center also hosts Tiempo Libre, one of the hottest young Latin bands today. Tiempo Libre's music is filled with high-voltage Latin jazz and seductive rhythms.

Nine-time Grammy winner and philanthropist John Legend will speak and perform on Jan. 24 at Bucknell University. Legend's contributions to the arts and organizations that support the arts resulted in his being named by Time magazine as one of the top 100 most influential people.

If you like theatrical productions filled with music, you won't want to miss the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players' "Pirates of Penzance" Jan. 26 at Susquehanna University or the Jan. 27 performance of the Tony-nominated "The Color Purple" at the Community Arts Center in Williamsport.

For a weekend filled with good music, good wine and relaxation, book the weekend of Jan. 20 at Lewisburg's Copper Beech Bed & Breakfast for the "Music at the Manor" getaway package.

If history fascinates you, be sure to attend the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble's production of "Julius Caesar" Jan. 27 and 28. Local history buffs will want to be sure to attend the Twelfth Day at Joseph Priestley house Museum Sunday for a day filled with games, prizes and demonstrations by Joseph Priestley himself.

Believe it or not, it's not too soon to be thinking about June weddings. Brides-to-be will want to attend the Bridal Show at the Lewisburg Hotel Sunday and Monday. After you say "yes" to the dress, be sure to check out the event planning section on our website to find where to have candles and wine labels customized for your event, family or wedding party, to find a horse-drawn carriage ride, or the perfect venue to make your celebration unique and memorable.

Be sure to mark your calendar for early February events, such as the Lewisburg Ice Festival, Polar Bear Plunge and Chocolate Lover's Festival Feb. 3 to 5.

For complete details, times, prices and information on these and other events in the Susquehanna River Valley, log on to VisitCentralPA.org or call 1-800-525-7320. Don't let "cabin fever" get the best of you. There's too much to do, right here at home.

(Miller is the executive director of the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau.)

MOUNT CARMEL - The following hearings took place Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones. Defendants who waive their cases to court or are held for court can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty Feb. 27 at Northumberland County Courthouse, Sunbury.

n Romuald Gawryjolek, 56, of 206 S. Oak St., Mount Carmel, waived to court charges of luring a child into a vehicle, corruption of minors, criminal attempt to sell or furnish alcohol to a minor and public drunkenness relating to a June 4 incident near his residence.

Gawryjolek was charged by Mount Carmel Patrolman David Donkochik with attempting to lure two 16-year-old girls to his apartment to drink alcohol.

n Michael J. Patrick, 60, of 146 E. Ave., Apt. 1, Mount Carmel, waived to court a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia filed by Mount Carmel Patrolman David Donkochik in connection with a Sept. 28 incident in the 400 block of East Avenue.

He also waived to court charges of manufacturing, delivering or possessing with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of bath salts, possession of hydrocodone bitartrate, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a license.

The charges were filed by Donkochik in connection with a June 23 incident at Market and Center streets.

n Lacey N. McDonald, 21, of 112 W. Melrose St., Marion Heights, waived to court charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of a misbranded or adulterated substance and possession of drug paraphernalia involving a Nov. 21 incident at her residence.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Township Police Chief Brian Hollenbush.

n Eric M. Carl, 27, of Elysburg, and Brian J. Troup, 27, of Orangeville, waived to court theft-related offenses relating to vehicle break-ins and theft of money along Circle View Drive in Elysburg on July 21 and July 22.

Carl was charged by Ralpho Township Cpl. Bryon Chowka with one count of theft and two counts of receiving stolen property.

Troup was charged by Chowka with two counts of theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property, and one count of theft from a motor vehicle.

n Mary K. O'Donnell, 51, of 129 W. Third St., Mount Carmel, waived to court charges of unsworn falsification to authorities and tampering with or fabricating physical evidence involving incidents that occurred at 129 W. Third St., Mount Carmel, and 31 Eleanor Ave., West Mahanoy Township, between Sept. 18 and Sept. 19.

The charges were filed by Trooper John Powis of state police at Frackville.

n Robert T. Malia, 43, of 17 Center St., Tharptown, waived to court charges of hindering apprehension or prosecution, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of an adulterated or misbranded controlled substance relating to incidents that occurred between Nov. 23 and Nov. 24 on Marshall Street and Route 901 in Locust Gap.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Matthew Filarski.

n Debra Ann Freese, 58, of Riverside, waived to court two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol and one count of careless driving relating to a Nov. 20 one-vehicle accident at Sunbury Road and Avenue I in Riverside.

The charges were filed by Riverside Sgt. Steven E. Watkins.

n Kara Henninger, 32, of 302 S. Coal St., Shamokin, waived to court charges of burglary, criminal trespass, theft and receiving stolen property.

Henninger was charged by Ralpho Township Patrolman Christopher Grow with entering a residence at 457 Lindy Acre Road and stealing $100 in pennies, a .44-caliber gun, holster and belt on Nov. 11.

n Cheryl L. Twiggs, 47, of 250 S. Poplar St., Apt. 7, Mount Carmel, pleaded guilty to criminal mischief and was ordered to pay a $500 fine plus costs. An additional charge of disorderly conduct was withdrawn.

Twiggs was charged by Mount Carmel Patrolman Justin Stelma in connection with an Oct. 29 incident in the 200 block of South Oak Street.

n John Pellish, 50, of Pottsville, pleaded guilty to criminal trespass and was ordered to pay a fine and costs totaling $453.50. Additional charges of criminal mischief and railroad vandalism and interference with transportation facilities were withdrawn.

The charges were filed by Matthew A. Johnson of the Reading and Northern Railroad Police with criminal mischief and criminal trespass in connection with an Oct. 19 incident on the railroad's M&S Branch between Locust Gap and Locust Summit.

Police reported Pellish was accused of driving a Michigan loader across three sets of railroad tracks, where no crossing was present. He also allegedly drove the loader 1.2 miles along Reading and Northern Railroad right-of-way, crossing the rail two more times where no crossing was present before getting stuck.

A criminal complaint stated that 33 railroad ties were damaged, causing the track to be taken out of service.

Trees picked up through Monday

MOUNT CARMEL - Christmas trees will be picked up in the borough until Monday. After Monday, residents will be responsible for proper disposal.

SASB work session set

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Shamokin Area School Board will hold a work session at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the board conference room of the middle/high school. The public is welcome to attend.

Area Agency on Aging to meet

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging, in conjunction with the Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital, A Campus of Geisinger Medical Center (G-SACH), will have its January meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in the hospital cafeteria.

The speaker for the meeting will be Marc Varano, the outreach coordinator for the LIFE/Geisinger Adult Day Program in Kulpmont. Varano will provide information on the medical and financial criteria for admission to the program and will share a slideshow featuring a day in the life of a program participant.

Anyone interested in obtaining information about Alzheimer's disease, other related topics or caregiving is welcome. For more information, call Pat Rosini at 495-2395. The Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging is a member of the South Central Pennsylvania Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.

Northumberland County's unemployment rate rose two-tenths of a percentage point from October (8.6 percent) to November (8.8 percent), according to information released by the state Department of Labor and Industry (DLI).

The county unemployment rate is above both the seasonally adjusted national and state levels, which are 8.6 percent (down from 9 percent) and 7.9 percent (down from 8.1 percent), respectively.

The most recent Northumberland County rate is lower than it was a year ago at 9.8 percent and two years ago when it was 10 percent.

Jobless rates in neighboring counties are Montour, 5.4 percent; Juniata, 7.1 percent; Union, 7.4 percent; Perry, 7.5 percent; Lycoming, 7.6 percent; Snyder, 7.6 percent; Dauphin, 7.7 percent; Columbia, 8.3 percent; and Schuylkill, 9.4 percent.

Of those nine counties, Columbia had the largest change, rising .4 percent. All but Juniata and Schuylkill counties, which remained the same, increased.

Centre County, at 5.3 percent, has the lowest jobless rate in Pennsylvania. Cameron County, at 11.4 percent, has the highest.

There are only four counties in the state at or above a rate of 10 percent.