SHAMOKIN - "D-Day" is how City Clerk Dave Kinder described the month of June during a special meeting Tuesday evening to discuss the town's financial crisis.

Kinder, who announced earlier this month he would resign in May because of stress and long hours experienced with his job, pleaded with Mayor George Rozinskie and Councilmen William Milbrand, R. Craig Rhoades, William Strausser and Michael Snyder to take immediate action or else the city will not have enough money to meet payroll and pay bills.

"Come every September and October, we hold bills for six months and that's part of why I resigned," he told them. "Come September, I refuse to sit here and pretend everything is alright. If council and mayor think things are fine, they are mistaken. It's not because the treasurer or the controller

or myself haven't told council, it's because council hasn't taken any action."

Controller Gary Haddock reported that on March 31, the city had $83,000 in outstanding bills. That total was knocked down Friday to $22,000 when several of those bills were paid.

"It will just keep on ballooning," he told council.

Treasurer Brenda Scandle presented a bleak report that says the city will be $18,931 short of making payroll in June. Things could get worse, she added, as the city would need $100,000 by the end of the year just to make it back to "zero."

Council discussed asking the Shamokin Youth Basketball League (SYBL) to help offset expenses at the American Legion Building on Independence Street. The majority of the upkeep costs come from the city's general fund, while heating bills are paid through the recreational fund.

Scandle reported that although SYBL does not pay rent, it frequently donates money towards heat bills, including a recent donation of $2,000. Rhoades said he would talk to Legion members for assistance.

"No one is talking about making cuts. We can talk about revenue until midnight," a frustrated Kinder said. "When it comes to making payroll or paying for the American Legion, what do we do? Gary (Haddock), Brenda (Scandle) and I don't have a vote. Somebody needs to do something."

Milbrand recommended the city renegotiate lower insurance rates for the police and street departments.

"I say it all the time, we pay the best of the best insurance. What's wrong with second best?" he said. "We can't afford that Cadillac. We might have to drive a Subaru."

Milbrand also suggested the city bring someone or something into the city to attract new business and boost economic development. Scandle interrupted and sarcastically said a new business would have to be established by June to avoid not meeting payroll.

In the only bright moment of the meeting, Scandle reported that compared to this time last year, $50,000 more in taxes has been collected. She attributed the increase to the recent press reports that said the city would soon be broke. She cautioned, however, that the amount of taxes collected will fluctuate and council should not count on the same amount of cash flow.

"We are maxed out on millage. There's no place else to get the money from," Snyder said. "Where do we get it from?"

After the hour-long meeting, council went into an executive session to discuss two personnel matters.

PITMAN - A 45-year-old truck driver from Maine was killed Tuesday morning when his rig transporting a load of potatoes failed to negotiate a turn along curvy Route 125 between Pitman and Hegins, collided with a truck hauling hay, tore through a section of guard rail and overturned onto its driver's side, pinning the operator under the wreckage.

The accident took place in Eldred Township approximately three-quarters of a mile south of Creek Road and three miles south of Jack's Spot bar during a steady rain.

State police at Schuylkill Haven reported Norman L. Tuttle, of Presque Isle, Maine, was pronounced dead at the scene of the 9:20 a.m. crash by Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner Wallace Hodgson.

Carl E. Adams, 52, of Klingerstown, the driver of a 1999 International 4700 truck hauling hay, suffered a minor injury and was able to free himself from the wreckage before being transported by Hegins Ambulance to Schuylkill Medical Center South Jackson Street in Pottsville. Adams underwent emergency room treatment before being released.

Police said neither Tuttle nor Adams was wearing a seat belt.

The highway from Shamokin to Hegins Township is marked with signs warning truck drivers of steep grades and sharp turns, which have resulted in many serious accidents over the years.

Couldn't make turn

According to an accident report filed by Trooper Mark F. Baron, Tuttle was driving a 2006 Peterbilt tractor-trailer north on Rout 125 toward Pitman when his rig traveled downhill at a speed too fast for road conditions while hauling a fully-loaded trailer of potatoes. As the tractor-trailer approached a hard right-hand curve in the road, Tuttle was unable to properly negotiate the turn.

Police said the right side tires of the rig lifted off the highway before the rear section of the trailer struck the driver's side cargo area of the truck transporting 215 bales of hay, which was traveling south toward Hegins. After the initial impact, police said the truck was knocked over and came to rest on its passenger side off the highway.

The tractor-trailer traveled approximately 60 feet before falling onto its driver's side. The rig then slid on its side for approximately 140 feet before crossing into the southbound lane and exiting the paved portion of the road. The rig, which tore through a section of guard rail, slid down an embankment, spilling a portion of its load of potatoes onto the ground in a wooded area below.

Tuttle was ejected from the rig and trapped underneath the trailer. The cab of the truck came to rest against a small utility pole.

Both rigs towed

Both vehicles sustained extensive damage and were towed from the scene with heavy-duty trucks from Hammer's Towing in Minersville.

Assisting at the scene were several troopers, Hodgson, firefighters from Hegins, Klingerstown, Mahantongo, Sacramento and Gratz fire companies, and personnel from Hegins Ambulance.

Fire police directed southbound traffic away from the accident scene at the intersection of Route 125 and Walnut Hollow Road, while northbound traffic traveling over the mountain from Hegins to Pitman also was redirected.

Road closed into night

Firefighters spread anti-skid material at the accident scene during the morning hours to prevent police and emergency personnel from sliding while descending the mountain from Hegins. Personnel cleared the scene at 5:43 p.m., but PennDOT still had a section of the highway closed as of 8:30 p.m. and was expected to keep it shut down until this morning.

SUNBURY - Full-time employees covered under a new contract approved by AFSCME Residual 86 and Northumberland County will receive a $1 per hour pay increase this year, but they will also contribute considerably more toward their health care insurance over the next two years.

Paying more for health care coverage has been a sticking point in several county union negotiations.

In the case of Residual 86, which covers 77 transportation, maintenance, weatherization and clerical employees, the union approved the contract April 8 and county commissioners ratified it at their meeting Tuesday.

The contract is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2010, but no wage or insurance contribution changes were instituted for that first year.

For this year, in addition to the $1 per hour raise for full-time employees, which was effective April 8, part-time workers received a 50-cent per hour increase. In 2012, full-time and part-time will be granted 50-cent and 25-cent per hour pay increases, respectively.

Terms detailed

Terms of the new union contract, passed by Commissioners Vinny Clausi, Merle Phillips and Frank Sawicki without discussion, were released by Human Resources Director Joseph Picarelli.

Beginning April 8, employees are paying 15 percent of the monthly premium toward hospital and medical insurance. The former contract required all employees to pay $20 per month for health care.

Beginning January 2012, employees will pay the lesser of 20 percent (depending on the premium cost) toward their elected coverages or the cap listed below per month:

- Single coverage - $73.71 per month in 2011 and $88.45 per month cap in 2012.

- Two-party coverage - $146.98 per month in 2011 and $176.37 per month cap in 2012.

- Family coverage - $183.62 per month in 2011 and $220.34 per month cap in 2012.

Each employee who attains retirement status will receive $15 per day for each day of unused accumulated sick leave. The former contract paid $10 per day for unused accumulated sick leave for employees who reached retirement.

Part-time employees will earn three days of sick leave after having completed one year of employment. Sick leave must be used in the subsequent year of employment and the days do not accrue. Part-time employees will earn three days of sick leave for each subsequent year of employment, but at no time will those days accrue. Upon receiving full-time employment, any sick days not used will be lost.

The county may change insurance companies during the term of the agreement provided the insurance coverage remains comparable to the current plan, according to language in the contract. The contract requires union and management officials to meet prior to any changes being imposed.

Based upon the Federal Family Medical Leave Act, an eligible employee is entitled to a total of 12 work weeks of family unpaid leave during any 12-month period for one or more of the following reasons:

- The birth of a son or daughter and in order to care for the child within the first 12 months of life.

- Placement of a son or daughter with him or her for adoption or foster care within the first 12 months of placement.

- In order to care for his or her spouse, son, daughter or parent, if this person has a serious health condition.

- His or her own health condition that makes him or her unable to perform the functions of his or her position.

Rejected in October

The union members, who had been working under a three-year contract that expired Dec. 31, 2009, had rejected the county's offer on a 38-2 vote on Oct. 28.

Three other union contracts involving county workers are expired and negotiations ongoing.

Forty-four county employees who are members of Teamsters Local 764, which includes adult and juvenile probation departments and domestic relations office, began paying more for health insurance coverage through a contract approved last fall. Costs rose 14.3 percent for single coverage (from $35 to $40 per month), 71.4 percent for two-party coverage ($35 to $60 per month) and 100 percent for family coverage ($35 to $70 per month) in 2010 and increase an additional $100 per month for 2011 and 2012.

Rates for non-union county employees approved in 2010 include $108 for a single person, $175 for two-party coverage, and $241 for family.

Parking lease OK'd

In other business at Tuesday's meeting, commissioners: - Approved a lease agreement with Mertz Real Estate for 60 additional parking spaces at the Human Services Complex, 231 Reagan St., Sunbury. The county will pay $25 for each parking spot or a total of $1,500 per month under the lease agreement.

- Made an annual contribution of $4,774 to the Lower Anthracite Transportation System.

Easter egg hunts slated Saturday

- OVERLOOK - Oak Grove United Methodist Church will hold an Easter egg hunt for children between the ages of 1 and 12 at 11 a.m. Saturday. Prizes will be given to all participants and refreshments will be served.

- MOUNT CARMEL - Union Evangelical Free Church, 601 W. Fifth St., will have an egg hunt at 11 a.m. for children of all ages.

For more information, call Pastor Larry Coutlee at 933-1151.

Election News

Democratic Women to host candidates

SHAMOKIN - Shamokin Area Democrat Women will be holding a "Meet the Candidates" evening at the Shamokin Knights of Columbus, Independence and Rock streets, Shamokin, at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 3.

Candidates for county, city, townships and school board offices are welcome to present their credentials and mingle with the public. Light refreshments will be served by members of the club following the presentations.

Any questions, contact club President Peggy Ferrari at 648-4724.

Jones endorsed by DAs, sheriff

RIVERSIDE - Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones of Mount Carmel has been endorsed in his bid for election to a full term by Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Rosini, Montour County District Attorney Bob Buehner and Montour County Sheriff Ray Gerringer.

The endorsement took place at a news conference April 15 outside Riverside Borough Hall.

Jones' magisterial district now encompasses Riverside, Rush Township and West Cameron Township, in addition to Mount Carmel, Mount Carmel Township, East Cameron Township, Marion Heights, Kulpmont and Ralpho Township.

"I am humbled by the endorsement of these fine law enforcement officials who have served with distinction in their respective jurisdictions," Jones said.

Jones' opponent in the election is Kulpmont Police Chief Richard L. Wilson III.

No political signs on borough property

ASHLAND - Political signs are not allowed on borough property, according to Borough Manager Thomas Joyce. Any signs found in parks and other locations owned by the borough will be removed, Joyce said.

SHAMOKIN - A groundskeeper for Shamokin Area School District, who lost his job three years ago for allegedly threatening his supervisor, may be re-instated after a state appeals court recently ruled in his favor.

Commonwealth Court reversed Northumberland County Judge Charles Saylor's ruling upholding Shamokin Area School Board's decision to fire groundskeeper Joseph Weaver, 65, of Shamokin, who had worked for the district for 21 years. The appeals court said Weaver's comments did not suggest he intended to harm students and his statements did not constitute terroristic threats, as alleged by district officials.

Contacted Wednesday, Shamokin Area School Board President Charles Carpenter reserved comment about the ruling by the state appeals court. Neither Shamokin Area Superintendent James Zack nor board solicitor Frank Garrigan were available for comment.

The school district has 30 days to file an appeal.

On Feb. 26, 2008, Weaver said he became upset with one of his supervisors, William Karpinski, who told him to stop performing a task and complete another job. Weaver said he called another supervisor, Daniel Richardson, to tell him to get Karpinski "off his back," but failed to properly hang up his cell phone and was overheard yelling to a co-worker about Karpinski, who has since retired from the school district.

According to court records, Weaver screamed, "I wish I could punch him right in the ... mouth. I can't do it so I'm just gonna pay somebody. I'll say, 'Here's a hundred dollars. Put a ... dusting on him.'"

Weaver, who denies threatening anyone, said Richardson, who is still employed with the district, reported his comments to Zack.

Weaver was suspended indefinitely on March 3, 2008, for allegedly threatening Karpinski. The suspension followed a pre-disciplinary hearing. Eight days later, Shamokin Area School Board fired Weaver for improper conduct.

Weaver then filed a grievance through his union, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, District Council 86, claiming he was wrongfully terminated. On Aug. 4, 2009, an arbitrator ruled that Weaver was guilty of disregarding instructions, but had been fired without just cause.

The arbitrator ruled that Weaver should receive a four-week suspension, attend anger management classes and be placed on probationary status for one year.

The school district petitioned for a review of the decision to the county court. Saylor vacated the arbitrator's award after determining Weaver's actions violated the public policy against violence in schools.

The union then appealed Saylor's ruling to Commonwealth Court.

In reversing the county court's ruling, the state appeals court found that Weaver did not violate the zero-tolerance policy against violence in schools because at no time were students at risk and though "highly inappropriate," his statements didn't rise to the level of terroristic threats.

During an interview Wednesday, Weaver said his remarks were made in frustration toward Karpinski, and at a time when Weaver was battling prostate cancer and caring for his ill mother, Helen Weaver, who passed away in 2009.

"I never made terroristic threats against anyone," Weaver said. "I didn't do anything wrong. I was just blowing off steam because I was undergoing cancer treatments and my mother was very ill. I was going through a bad time."

Weaver, who is still undergoing cancer treatment, said he lost his insurance upon being terminated. "I had no job and no insurance," he said. "I was cut to nothing. I went through six months of pure hell. I had to fight to get my job back and my retirement benefits."

Weaver, who is being represented by union attorney Amy Rosenberg of Philadelphia, claimed the district offered him $1,000 to retire after the arbitrator ruled in his favor. "They wanted me to just take the money and walk away," Weaver said. "But my attorney and I said no way. It's been a three-year battle, but I'm hoping to finally get my job back, receive back pay and eventually retire from the district."

Weaver, who also has served as a bus driver for the district, said he appreciated everyone who has supported him through his legal proceedings.

SHAMOKIN - A 50-year-old Shamokin man broke bones in both his feet and suffered a back injury after jumping out a second-story window late Monday while allegedly under the influence of bath salts.

Misdemeanor offenses of causing false alarms to public safety agencies and disorderly conduct were filed by Patrolman Jarrod Scandle against Robert W. Stevens, who resides in a second-floor apartment at 717 E. Race St. The charges relate to incidents that occurred at Stevens' apartment between 9:30 and 10:30 p.m.

According to a criminal complaint, Stevens called police twice for a report of a person who had broken into his house or was attempting to break in. Police said Stevens also made a false report that a person was trying to steal his "girl."

Police said Stevens later jumped out his second-story window in an attempt to catch the people whom he claimed had broken into his residence.

Chemicals found in bath salts, a designer drug that many municipalities have banned and is the subject of legislation expected to be signed soon by Gov. Tom Corbett, cause effects similar to those experienced with cocaine and methamphetamines, including hallucinations, paranoia and suicidal thoughts. A number of incidents have occurred in the region related to those suffering from bath salts-induced hallucinations, and a death in Coal Township in February was tied to the drug.

Chasing with a hammer

Upon being dispatched to Stevens' apartment, Scandle and Patrolman Scott Weaver observed Stevens charging at the back door with a hammer in an attempt to hit something. Stevens then told the officers that three males had fled the area down a fire escape. Upon checking the roof area of the apartment building where the fire escape led, police did not find any males. Scandle then requested assistance from Coal Township Patrolmen David Sage and Matthew Henrich.

After not finding anyone inside Stevens' apartment, police began talking with Stevens, who continually claimed he could see the males in different areas and was pointing at them. When Scandle asked Stevens about the alleged "girl" the males were attempting to steal, he responded, "What girl?"

Stevens said a similar incident occurred Sunday night in which officers responded to his apartment and couldn't find the imagined males.

Stevens told police he was not diabetic and didn't have any medical issues. Stevens also refused to have ambulance personnel assess his condition, police said.

Scandle told Stevens his actions were similar to a person suffering the effects of ingesting bath salts, but Stevens became defensive at Scandle's assumption. Stevens told police he would never use bath salts.

Sage showed Stevens with his flashlight that there were no males in the area.

After being advised his house was clear, Stevens told police he hoped the males wouldn't come back.

Sound of breaking glass

At 9:50 p.m., Scandle called state parole officer Robert Belfanti to seek advice about the situation because Stevens was on state parole. Belfanti advised police to detain Stevens and place him in a correctional institution for violating his parole.

Police were later dispatched to Stevens' apartment again for a report of three males at his residence. Stevens told a dispatcher at Northumberland County Communications Center that one of the males was wearing a green Army jacket in his living room, while the other two were out back.

A dispatcher reported that a rustling noise and glass breaking in the background could be heard before the phone line went dead.

The dispatcher also told police that several calls had been received about a male (Stevens) who jumped out a second-story window and was lying on the ground.

Upon arriving at Stevens' apartment, police saw Stevens lying in front of 717 E. Race St. with a large amount of glass around him. Police said it appeared Stevens had broken through his second-story window and fell to the ground. Police spotted a large hammer lying next to Stevens.

Stevens, who was conscious and alert, told Scandle, "I was chasing the males and jumped out of the window after them."

Mouth, back bleeding

Police said Stevens was lying on the sidewalk complaining of pain in both his ankles and back. He also was bleeding from his mouth and back. While still lying on the ground, Stevens continually told police to tell the imagined males to stop throwing glass at him and even covered his eyes with his hands to protect himself.

Witnesses told police Stevens had been acting abnormal for the past three days and had made comments about seeing bears near his home.

Stevens was treated at the scene by personnel from AREA Services and transported to Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, where he underwent emergency treatment before being admitted. Stevens was listed in fair condition Wednesday, according to a hospital spokeswoman.

MOUNT CARMEL - KETEC's campaign to collect approximately $2.5 million to boost industrial development met early success with the announcement of over $260,000 in contributions.

The news was discussed during the nonprofit organization's "capital campaign kickoff" Wednesday evening at the American Legion.

Steve Bartos, president of board of directors, said in addition to the $10,000 received Tuesday by Wells Fargo, $250,000 in pre-campaign donations was dedicated by Dr. Richard Caruso, whose company owns SEEDCO Park. Several local residents also contributed funds, including $1,000 from Bernie Rumberger, owner of AREA Services.

"These are the kind of people we need to have as ambassadors," Bartos said. "To have someone to say here's a $1,000 for your organization and say, 'Let me help you.'"

Money collected will be used to construct a new manufacturing building, or "shell," inside the SEEDCO Park, Coal Township, purchase and remodel a commercial building for KETEC headquarters and "incubating" companies, pay for two years of operating costs and obtain matching government funds for developing, writing and implementing a comprehensive plan that would serve as a blueprint for the set of projects.

The campaign is modeled after an industrial fund drive in 1958 that raised more than $300,000 in three years from individuals, organizations and small and large businesses.

"With those contributions they built the industrial park in Mount Carmel Township that today still employs 250 people," Bartos said. "It was all because of private funding."

After the meeting, Bartos explained that those who contribute a certain amount will be given the option to become stock holders once the $2.5 million is collected, a bond is raised and the organization turns "for profit."

In addition to letters and phone calls, KETEC is taking advantage of 21st century technology to contact 1958 "alumni."

"We are taking a play out of their playbook and putting a 21st century twist on it by using Facebook and e-mail to contact potential contributors," he explained. "We are reaching out to people we can target that we know have done well that still have some coal dust in their veins. What we are doing differently is we are reaching across the nation."

KETEC is using several platforms to attract contributors, including factors such as the organization's headquarters at the former General Cigar Factory building in Mount Carmel, near-by downtown centers, plentiful recreational activities, workforce development, world class health care, and the attractiveness of the SEEDCO industrial park.

Bartos said the installation of utilities, ample water and sewer capacity, short and long railway service and close proximity to Interstates 80 and 81 make the park a prime location for economic improvement.

"It's built. It's operating. It puts us in the game," he said. "Few (industrial) parks can take-up new industries."

COAL TOWNSHIP - Habitat for Wildlife (HFW) Wednesday afternoon released 1,000 small Brook Trout into Carbon Run, a small stream that flows into Shamokin Creek at Shamokin.

Yes, you read that right. Trout were released into a tributary of Shamokin Creek, which for decades has run orange because of acid-mine discharge.

The 2- to 3-inch trout were placed into the stream approximately one-half mile from the Third Patch of Bear Valley in Coal Township.

The fish were purchased from Zion Grove Trout Hatchery, Zion, with money that was originally slated to be spent at the Alaska Site in Excelsor. HFW abanonded plans at the site when county commissioners did not renew the lease at the end of 2010.

Dave Kaleta, president of HFW, said the pH levels in Carbon Run have been reduced by two passive treatment systems installed by Shamokin Creek Restoration Alliance.

"We checked the insect levels here, and there are plenty for the trout to eat," he said. "The fish will not be ready for fishing for about two years. Hopes are high that they will take (to the water) and reproduce."

Kaleta said brook trout will not migrate far and should not make their way into Shamokin Creek, where fish aren't able to survive until further down stream.

SUNBURY - Republicans maintain a lead of 1,403 in voter registrations, according to statistics provided by the Northumberland County Elections office. Monday was the deadline for registering to vote or changing party affiliation prior to the May 17 primary election.

There are currently 54,245 registered voters in the county, including 25,010 Republicans, 23,607 Democrats and 5,628 voters who are affiliated with other parties or are unaffiliated.

During the post-2010 general election period, running from Nob. 4, 2010, to April 18, 2011, the elections office received 426 new registrations. These included, 165 who registered Democrat, 193 Republican, with the remainder registering with minor parties.

The office also reported 249 party changes in the same period, including 90 voters who changed their affiliation to the Democratic Party, 103 who switched to the Republican Party and 56 who switched to minor parties.

A breakdown of voter registration figures by municipality is on Page 7.

Municipality Republican Democrat Others Total

Coal Township 1,678 3,160 364 5,202

Delaware Township 1,410 763 256 2,429

East Cameron Township 165 191 22 378

East Chillisquaque Township 241 83 46 370

Herndon 101 54 27 182

Jackson Township 328 147 50 525

Jordan Township 311 113 38 462

Kulpmont 455 1,361 123 1,939

Lewis Township 595 367 95 1,057

Little Mahanoy Township 138 68 22 228

Lower Augusta Township 397 199 66 662

Lower Mahanoy Township 626 240 101 967

Marion Heights 136 294 31 461

McEwensville 104 67 27 198

Milton 1,762 1,313 506 3,581

Mount Carmel Borough 1,044 2,382 332 3,758

Mount Carmel Township 382 1,371 119 1,872

Northumberland 1,290 839 274 2,403

Point Township 1,414 769 282 2,465

Ralpho Township 1,437 1,112 290 2,839

Riverside 605 521 195 1,321

Rockefeller Township 936 385 133 1,454

Rush Township 399 224 73 696

Shamokin City 1,402 2,272 377 4,051

Shamokin Township 814 534 109 1,457

Snydertown 113 58 17 188

Sunbury 2,331 1,968 757 5,056

Turbot Township 636 336 159 1,131

Turbotville 234 182 49 465

Upper Augusta Township 993 548 179 1,720

Upper Mahanoy Township 223 130 24 377

Washington Township 234 131 36 401

Watsontown 690 438 137 1,265

West Cameron Township 163 82 17 262

West Chillisquaque Township 756 446 188 1,390

Zerbe Township 467 459 107 1.033

TOTALS 25,010 23,607 5,628 54,245

Shamokin-Coal Township

Monday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; pinochle, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; shopping at Boscov's, van leaves at 9 a.m., cost is $2; bridge, 12:15 p.m.

Wednesday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 10 a.m.; Marc Varano, from Penn State Extension, will speak on "Maintaining your Independence," with pinochle and Pokeno to follow, noon.

Thursday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; nickel bingo, noon.

Saturday - Wii bowling and cards, 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Mount Carmel

Monday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; Exercise HSIM, 11 to 11:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; bean bag, 12:30 p.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Tuesday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; Exercise HSIM, 11 to 11:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; guest speaker Kelley A. Morrison from Shamokin Area Community Hospital on "Friends and Family First Aid and CPR," 2 p.m.

Thursday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle, 12:30 p.m.; last day CSO representative will be at the center to complete property tax/rent rebates.

Friday - Center closed for a parish function.

Kulpmont

Monday - Bean bag with Wii to follow, 10:30 a.m.; Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Traveling to Dewart SAC to bowl, van leaves at 9 a.m.; pinochle-cards, noon.

Wednesday - Wii in the morning; nickel bingo with cards to follow, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Wii in the morning; trip to Mohegan Sun, bus leaves center at 9 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Wii in the morning; nickel bingo with cards to follow, 12:30 p.m.

Activity winners - 500 Rummie: First game winners were Diane McAndrew, Mary Else, Patricia Worhoch and Patricia Pipp. Second game winners were Anna Bartko, Mary Else, Patricia Worhoch and Patricia Pipp.

Bean Bag Toss: Tony Kaminsky, Anna Bartko, Gloria Magagna, Catherine McGann, Mary Else, Patricia Pipp, Jean Dallatore, Anna Mae Piacezny and Patricia Worhoch.

Pinochle: Tuesday winners were Dixie Richardson, Jackie Wanzie, Paul Niglio, Helene Niglio, Charles Saweikis, Anna Bartko, Tony Deromedi, Len Sahonick, Mary Socoloski, Ellie Romanoski, Betty Jarosewicz and Alice Zyskoski. Thursday winners were Len Sahonick, Linda Shankweiler, Tish Shihinski, Anna Bartko, Dixie Richardson, Cecelia Ayers, Adeline Tolyznski, Jackie Wanzie, Mary K. Polites, Anna Mae Piacezny, Betty Jarosewicz, Harry Shankweiler, Roger Wolfgang, Paul Niglio, Gertrude Snyder and Sis Thiroway.

Centralia-Wilburton

Monday - Discussion on current events.

Tuesday - After lunch, playing "STRESS" bingo with ice cream social.

Wednesday - Bring a friend day.

Thursday - Please bring in the tabs from the soda or beer cans so we can take them up to the Ronald McDonald House in Danville.

Friday - Center closed for a day trip to "The Ronald McDonald House" in Danville to make lunch for those staying there.

Saturday - Renaissance Jamboree in Bloomsburg, great fund-raiser for the Aging office.

Elysburg

Monday - Pokeno, noon.

Tuesday - Healthy Steps, 9:30 a.m.; line dancing, noon.

Wednesday - Bingo, noon.

Thursday - Healthy Steps, 9:30 a.m.; line dancing, noon.

Friday - Crafts, 9:30 a.m.; pinochle, 10 a.m.

Trevorton

Monday - Free members breakfast, 8:30 a.m.; games on the Wii, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.; guest speaker Clarence Dietrick of the Northumberland County Transportation Department, 10 a.m.; Unlucky 7s, 12:30 p.m.; evening card party, 7 p.m.

Tuesday - Wii bowling, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Chair Dancing through the Decades, 11 a.m.; shopping at Weis Markets, 12:30 p.m., $2 co-pay; evening bingo, 6 p.m.

Wednesday - Wii Fit exercise, 8:30 to 11 a.m.; afternoon card party, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Bean bag toss, 10:30 a.m.; Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.; evening bingo, 6 p.m.

Friday - Royal Wedding: we will be doing different activities throughout the day; Wii bowling, 8:30 to 11 a.m.; nickel bingo, noon.

Northumberland County Career and Technology Center

COAL TOWNSHIP - The honor roll for the third marking period at the Northumberland County Career and Technology Center was announced by Robert K. Beierschmitt, principal.

To be named to the first honor roll list, a student must maintain an average of 95 or better and must have a good citizenship and attendance record.

To be named to the second honor roll list, a student must maintain an average between 90 through 94 and must have a good citizenship and attendance record.

First honors

Shamokin Area

10th grade - Nathan Rothermel, protective services.

11th grade - Charles Black, computer technology; William Curran, computer technology; Amber Ebbecke, health occupations careers; Jacob Eveland, computer technology; Zachary Jacobs, carpentry; Kristi Morris, health occupations careers; Erik Orner, protective services; Ashley Strouse, occupational child care; Britany Strouse, protective services, and Alyssa Vittorio, protective services.

12th grade - Angela Bainbridge, health occupations careers; Stephen Chamberlain, computer technology; Kevin Dillon, protective services; Chesney Haupt, protective services; Alexandra Johnston, occupational child care; Clorissa Kehler, protective services; Janessa Maurer, protective services; Brandon Mikulak, computer technology; Nathan Polan, protective services; Jeremy Rickert, computer technology; Randy Tamkus, electrical construction, and Brayden Yacko, computer technology.

Line Mountain

10th grade - Michael Lorenz, welding.

11th grade - Michael Cotner, welding; Joshua Martz, protective services; Codie Schaffner, protective services, and Gabrielle Sprenkle, occupational child care.

12th grade - Tasha Campbell, health occupations careers; Octavia Shingara, protective services, and Charles Shrawder, computer technology.

Mount Carmel Area

12th grade - Nathan Hinkle, welding, and Jacob Vellner, electrical construction.

Second honors

Shamokin Area

11th grade - Peyton Autry, health occupations careers; Shanna Endy, computer technology; Andreena Forbes, health occupations careers; Alina Hensel, culinary arts; Andrew Hepler, welding; James Houlihan, welding; Evan Jamison, protective services; Skyelar Moore, culinary arts; Tyler Pincoskie, automotive technology; Megan Ramp, computer technology; Blaise Reichenbach, protective services; Jared Ruch, protective services; Garrett Rupp, protective services; Michael Shingara, computer technology; Emily Shuman, computer technology; Cody Stine, carpentry, and Timothy Wasko, electrical construction.

12th grade - Caitlyn Colllins, occupational child care; Bethany Dressler, protective services; Danielle Favinger, health occupations careers; Saraia Hanko, culinary arts; Rachel Koons, protective services; Randy Moore, computer technology; Brianne Ramer, culinary arts; Danricia Ramsay, culinary arts; Christina Roden, computer technology; Jarrod Savidge, automotive technology; Roman Scicchitano, computer technology; Tiffany Sejuit, health occupations careers; Shane Stiely, computer technology; Brett Taylor, computer technology, and Rebecka Thompson, culinary arts.

Line Mountain

11th grade - Christian Dawson, computer technology; Ashley Geiswhite, culinary arts; Terry LaForme, computer technology; Shelly Lenker, cosmetology; Jared Wood, computer technology, and Kirsten Wynn, health occupations careers.

12th grade - Heather Bachert, cosmetology; Nathan Hatzel, carpentry; Tyler Smith, computer technology, and Jessica Yost, health occupations careers.

Mount Carmel Area

11th grade - Brittany Gerth, culinary arts, and Justin Mackenzie, computer technology.

12th grade - Kelsey Bennett, automotive technology; John Boonstra, computer technology; Samantha Harper, culinary arts; Shaun Holmes, culinary arts; Tiffany Mulvehill, culinary arts; Paul Snyder, welding, and Ryan Tloczynski, computer technology.

ATLAS - When the floor was opened to the public at Wednesday's Mount Carmel supervisors meeting, Joseph Chimel asked supervisors and solicitor Vince Rovito how he would go about proposing an ordinance. Rovito explained the processes.

Chimel told the board his proposal was actually in three parts: changing road restrictions, increasing the amount of supervisors to five and regulating the hours of operation for D. Molesevich and Sons Construction Co., which has been the subject of repeated complaints as the company follows DEP orders to clean up a former breaker site that Molesevich purchased and hopes to renovate and reopen.

Supervisors told Chimel that increasing the amount of supervisors would need to go through the election bureau, not the supervisors, and it could take years. Just a few years ago, the township went through the process of reducing the board from five to three, which was approved by township voters.

Discussion then turned to the problems Chimel has had with the breaker. He said that if he proposes ordinances, the board will just knock them down.

"And if they knock them down, fine. I could use it against them," he said, saying that he will definitely propose the ordinance.

Rovito told Chimel that if that's how he feels, he should "go ahead and do it."

Rovito said Chimel would need to present the body of the ordinance, explain what it is he is asking the board to do, and explain why it is in the best interest of township residents. Chimel said he would make his presentation at next month's meeting.

Rovito went on to explain that hours of operation for a business could be a zoning matter. Making a change in a zoning ordinance could effectively put new hours of operation into place, but it may not affect Molesevich, because he was a non-conforming user on a zoning matter before the changes were made, Rovito said.

In other business:

Street cleaning is set to begin Tuesday. Chairman Reynold Scicchitano stressed that with this will take place only if the weather cooperates. Supervisors said that they will do their best to have it started on schedule. If the date changes, it will be advertised in the newspaper.

Scicchitano, along with other board members, expressed congratulations to the three Mount Carmel Odyssey of the Mind teams for conquering the state level and advancing to world competition.

The board had advertised for sealed bids for a new trash compactor/truck. The only bid received was from Mid-Atlantic Waste Systems, which was for a 2007 truck at the cost of $80,095. Supervisors decided this is more than the township can afford, so it was tabled.

Randy Sigarsky suggested the possibility of purchasing a new truck body and transferring the compactor onto it, saving the township a significant amount of money. Scicchitano thought it was a good suggestion and thanked Sigarsky.

Road problems were also discussed. Supervisors told residents they are starting to do some cold patching. Gasperetti said that they are also looking into alternative means of road repair. He said they are exploring different processes that work better and could last longer.

"This winter has been atrocious," he said, and pointed out that the weather has taken a toll on surrounding area roads as well.

Minutes and the treasurer's report were approved and all motions carried. Supervisor Joseph Zanella was not present at the meeting.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Last weekend's Salvation Army Adult Basketball Tournament raised $2,756.50 for the local Salvation Army chapter, one of the highest amounts raised in the eight-year history of the event.

Games were played Friday evening and all day Saturday and Sunday at the Shamokin Area Middle/High School gymnasium.

The tournament, which this year involved 14 teams, is the largest fundraiser for the Shamokin-Coal Township chapter, which, in addition to other charity work throughout the year, assisted 614 families this past Christmas.

Tournament organizers gave special thanks to all referees who volunteered their time for the games, especially to Justin Rickert, Cory Houser, Brad Nahodil, Derek Lapotsky and Steve Lapotsky, but also to Mike Slodysko, Dwayne Scicchitano, Rich Weikel, Steve Jacoby, Jim Fiamoncini, Rick Miller, Ed Griffiths, Paul Niglio, Ray Shimko, Jeremy Haddock, Rick Wilson and Jesse Butler.

Their free work is what allows the tournament to make such a respectable profit, which comes from team entry fees, concession sales and individual donations. The collections included those dropped into the Salvation Army's well-recognized red kettle, which was set up at the entrance of the gym for the weekend.

Student workers from Shamokin Area completed their senior projects by manning the clock and scorebook and helping to clean up. They included Cameron Bradley, Stephen Bressi, Danielle Favinger, Nate Mallett, Aaron Zimmerman, Kime Newborn, Dylan Kosmer, Jarrod Haddock, Jamie Shaffer, Veronica Strohecker, Deanne Rosini, Keisha Foulds and Rachel Trelinskie.

Bill Spotts, a custodian at the school, volunteered much of his time for set up and clean up. Organizers also thank Paul Metrocavage, former president of the Shamokin Youth Basketball League, a Salvation Army board member and a retired editor at The News-Item, who helped compile story coverage for the newspaper each day of the tournament.

Also recognized were private donations from Janis Kotwica, Brian Persing, Mark Anonia, Henry Linton, Harry Deitz, Metrocavage, Ned Sodrick, Lois McCormick, Dave Hoffman and Greg Zyla.

Business donations were provided by Earl Sheriff at Irish Isle Provisions and Flo and Kathy James at James Pizza.

The Shamokin Area School Board was also thanked for allowing use of district facilities.

DUI charge

STONINGTON - John Raji Salim Kozock, 24, of 1888 Irish Valley Road, Paxinos, has been charged by Trooper Nicholas Berger of state police at Stonington with two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to drive in a single lane, reckless driving, careless driving and driving at an unsafe speed relating to a March 25 accident on Irish Valley Road near Route 61 in Shamokin Township.

Police reported Kozock had a blood-alcohol content of .170 percent.

Theft charge

COAL TOWNSHIP - Patricia A. Maurer, 56, of 155 Bear Hollow Road, Elysburg, was charged by Patrolman Matthew Henrich with theft and possession of a controlled substance.

Police reported Maurer stole a Fentanyl patch from the residence of John Shiko along Route 2026 between Feb. 14 and March 3.

Drug charges

MOUNT CARMEL TOWNSHIP - Ashley M. Knopp, 22, of 333 W. Seventh St., Mount Carmel, has been charged by Patrolman Matthew Filarski with possession of a controlled substance, tampering with or fabricating physical evidence, theft and receiving stolen property relating to a Jan. 21 incident on the Locust Gap Highway.

Police reported Knopp stole her sister's medications, including clonidine, risperidone and focalin.

DUI charges

MOUNT CARMEL - Robert W. Beury Jr., 23, of 126 W. Girard St., Atlas, has been charged by Patrolman Jason Drumheller with two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol involving a March 13 incident at the Avenue and Locust Street.

Police reported Beury had a blood-alcohol content of .147 percent.

Bad check

MOUNT CARMEL TOWNSHIP - Jessica L. Steel, 23, of 220 Pennsylvania Ave., Mount Carmel, was charged by Mount Carmel Township Police Chief Brian Hollenbush with issuing a bad check in the amount of $200 to Tyler Geary of Shady Acres on April 8.

Drug paraphernalia

MOUNT CARMEL - Jeffrey J. Tomashefski, 22, of 250 S. Hickory St., Mount Carmel, was charged by Patrolman Justin Stelma with possession of drug paraphernalia involving a March 25 incident at his residence.

DUI charge

RALPHO TOWNSHIP - Roger L. Herb, 54, of Hegins, has been charged by Patrolman Chris Dailey with two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol and failure to drive in a single lane relating to a Feb. 27 vehicle stop along Route 54 between Catman Hollow Road and All Saints Cemetery in Bear Gap.

Police reported Herb had a blood-alcohol content of .196 percent.

Waives case

MOUNT CARMEL - Barbara J. Hall, 23, of 32 E. Cherry St., Mount Carmel, waived to court Wednesday a charge of endangering the welfare of a child and was ordered by Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones to appear in Northumberland County Court.

Hall was charged by Mount Carmel Patrolman Kevin Katch with allowing two young children to stand naked on a second-story porch at her home on March 31.

Hall can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty in the Court of Common Pleas.

Waived to court

MOUNT CARMEL - Tyler M. Wondoloski, 18, of 802 W. Fifth St., Mount Carmel, waived to court Wednesday charges of theft and receiving stolen property and was ordered by Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones to appear in Northumberland County Court.

Wondoloski was charged by Mount Carmel Patrolman Matt Dillman with stealing a Yamaha all-terrain vehicle owned by David Urbanowicz. Police said the theft occurred between April 14 and April 15 in the 100 block of East Water Street.

Wondoloski can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty in the Court of Common Pleas.

Held for court

MOUNT CARMEL - Christopher M. Elsayed, 35, of 201 E. Sunbury St., Shamokin, was held for court Wednesday by Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones on charges of causing a public nuisance and disorderly conduct involving an Oct. 25 incident at a property he owns at 489 W. Girard St., Atlas.

Elsayed was charged by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman David Stamets Jr. with failing to address issues with his condemned and rodent-infested property that has become a danger to the public.

Elsayed can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty in the Court of Common Pleas.

Disorderly conduct

COAL TOWNSHIP - A 15-year-old male from Coal Township has been charged by Patrolman Christopher Lapotsky with disorderly conduct in connection with an April 13 disturbance at Shamokin Area Middle/High School.

Police said the teen used obscene language and was being unruly in a classroom.

SCRANTON - Law enforcement and public officials from Lackawanna and Luzerne counties met with U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and federal officials Thursday to discuss the need for federal aid in fighting drug and gang-related crime in Northeast Pennsylvania.

"I come before the people of Northeast Pennsylvania to talk about this report with a lot of humility," Casey said. "Each of these individuals fights these battles every day. They're in the trenches every day."

A recently released report by the National Drug Intelligence Center in Johnstown concluded that federal aid would be necessary to effectively combat the rising tide of drug and gang-related crime funneled into the area from neighboring states and different regions of Pennsylvania.

Casey asked U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder to have the NDIC compile its report in January following the murder of Michael Jackson, a 24-year-old Yonkers, N.Y., man who came to the area to sell drugs.

In addition to Mayor Chris Doherty, Scranton Police Chief Dan Duffy, Lackawanna County District Attorney Andy Jarbola, Hazleton Mayor Joseph Yannuzzi, Bob Maguire, captain of intelligence and security threat groups at the Lackawanna County Prison and representatives from the Luzerne County district attorney's office and Hazleton Police Department were at the meeting.

Doherty, Casey and Jarbola all stressed the need for federal grant funding to be more proactive in combatting the type of crime the report analyzed, and they hope the report will aid in securing the necessary dollars.

"It's better to go to a federal agency with a current and comprehensive report" when pursuing grant funding, Casey said.

Heroin's growing popularity and availability in Northeast Pennsylvania stood out in the report as one of the most glaring issues facing law enforcement's efforts against drug and gang crime in the area, Casey said.

In 2007, the report found, only about 39 kilograms of heroin were seized in Northeast Pennsylvania, according to the report. But, by 2010, that number grew to over 263 kilograms.

"My job is to do everything I can ... to get more federal dollars," Casey said.

After a press conference in his Scranton office Thursday, Casey met with the officials to discuss uses for funding.

For Maguire, the area's gang expert, the most immediate need for local law enforcement is a comprehensive intelligence database to not only record individuals' gang affiliations, but, among other things, their aliases.

"(Law enforcement) may know somebody as 'Pee-wee' but we know them as John Smith" at the county prison, Maguire said.

The first tool local law enforcement will need, though, is money.

"It all comes down to dollars and cents. There's no two ways about it," Jarbola said.

Lodge reaches out to Anthracite FOP

ASHLAND - Adam Bernodin, Ashland chief of police, invites members of the former Anthracite Lodge 6 Fraternal Order of Police to join the FOP's North Schuylkill Lodge 205.

The North Schuylkill lodge welcome members from the area once covered by the former Anthracite lodge, which comprised Shamokin, Coal Township, Kulpmont, Mount Carmel, Mount Carmel Township and Ralpho Township. These communities are now within the North Schuylkill lodge's geographical area.

Anthracite lodge members are invited to contact Bernodin at the Ashland Police Department, 875-2600, or the non-emergency dispatch number, 462-1991, or Matt Dillman of the Mount Carmel Borough Police Department with any questions.

Masser's staff to be in Danville

DANVILLE - Staff from the office of state Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107) will hold office hours from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Montour County Courthouse, 29 Mill St.

Masser said he will be in Harrisburg for legislative sessions.

The staff will be set up in an office at the end of the main hall to the left.

Masser's district office is at 467 Industrial Park Road, off Route 487 near Paxinos. The district office hours are from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The office phone number is 648-8017.

SHAMOKIN - An election billboard is the latest source of tension among members of the Shamokin Area School Board, but those behind the campaign say they were trying to be fair, not cause trouble.

The billboard near the Cameron Bridge says "Why Change!" and has red arrows indicating test scores have gone up and taxes down. It includes a photo of all nine members of the school board but urges the re-election of Charles Carpenter, Todd Hockenbrock, Barry Rebuck and Dan Venn. A disclaimer says it's paid for by the Committee for Quality Education.

Member Tracey Witmer believes the billboard is misleading in that it suggests she supports those members' re-election, and said she never agreed to use of the photo, which she said was taken for the yearbook.

"The billboard say's 'Why change!' Oh, I can give you several reasons for change," she said. "I really am not happy at all about this. I don't want my picture on their billboards pretending to support them and persuade votes their way."

Carpenter, board president, doesn't think the message is misleading, and that it fairly credits the entire board.

"Most of the time the board is together (on decisions)," he said. "I think it's fine."

Venn said the entire board has created the success, and so it was decided to use a picture of all nine members.

"She'd have been mad if her picture wasn't on," he said about Witmer. "There was no malice intended."

He said someone had suggested not using Witmer's photo.

"We're trying not to fight," he said, but added, "It's hard to get along with her."

Does use of a group photo suggest he'd like all of the board members who are seeking re-election (terms for Witmer, LaRue Beck, Ed Griffiths and Brian Persing do not expire this year) to win?

"No, I don't necessarily mean that," Venn said. "I mean these nine have been the ones to accomplish these things."

Rebuck also doesn't see the billboard as misleading.

"We've done a lot of positive things out there and it's not one person" that deserves the credit, he said.

"I don't have anything bad to say about any one of them," he added. "There are nine people with nine different ways of thinking, and that's a good thing for a board."

But Mark Anonia, the fifth current board member who is up for re-election this year, agrees with Witmer.

"The billboard is a political ad for four candidates, not for myself, and should not have included me or others due to that fact," he said. "It shows all members, but only supports four, and it was paid for by a political committee that I am not affiliated with."

He said he was never asked about having his picture included in someone else's paid advertisement.

Witmer, who has been at odds with the board majority and administrators over various issues, said her concerns go beyond the billboard.

"If these guys make it in May, I will be resigning," she said. "What is the point of sticking around? Every time I question something with an administrator involved, I get nasty grams from attorneys. There is a lot of bitterness that is not portrayed in that billboard."

Others running for school board include Sol Bidding, Robert Getchey, Jeff Kashner, Charles Shuey, Ronald McElwee, Bernard Sosnoskie, Nedra Templar and JoAnn Weikel.

MOUNT CARMEL - Borough council unanimously accepted the resignation of Councilman Ronald Tanney at its monthly meeting Thursday night.

"We'll miss the guy; he was certainly for the public," said Councilman Robert Barrett.

Tanney wrote in a letter of resignation submitted Monday that he regretted his inability to continue his obligations as a member of the council, but would resign due to personal reasons.

"It has been an honor and a privilege to work with all of you and serve the people of Mount Carmel," he wrote.

Tanney was in his last year of a four-year term and chose not to run for re-election. He also served a term in the 1990s. He has been involved in the Celebration of Special Athletes and food pantries in the borough.

Councilmen Clem Plisiewicz and Barrett made and seconded the motion to accept his resignation. It passed unanimously 6-0.

Council has 30 days to fill the vacancy. If it is not filled within that time period, the decision rests with the vacancy board, which is comprised of the six members of council plus a vacancy board member. The vacancy board has an additional 15 days to fill the position. If the seven-member board does not appoint a new member in that time, a county judge can appoint someone.

At this point, said President Tony Matulewicz, there have been no formal interest in the position except for the individuals running for council in the

primary election. Non-incumbents running are Heather Artman, Joseph Lapotsky and Vincent Ulceski.

Matulewicz said he is hesitant to appoint anyone running for council because he didn't want it to appear as if council was stacking the deck ahead of the election.

Easement frustration

In other news, council is still waiting for an land easement issue to be settled with Reading Anthracite Co; it is the last property needed before the Shamokin Creek flood control project can begin along Water Street. Reading Anthracite is one of 67 entities that needed to sign off on the project.

Once an agreement is reached, council can bid the project within 60 days. Construction of the project is expected to take two years.

There is $120,000 worth of CBDG money being allocated toward the project, which involves the construction of flood walls to keep the water from rising into the streets and flooding homes. Council is also seeking grants.

Mayor J. Kevin Jones expressed frustration with the situation.

"As the national government crashes, we are worried about our money. We've hit roadblock after roadblock and our own citizens have held this up," he said.

HARRISBURG - Pennsylvania homeowners should receive an average $200 in slots-funded property tax relief this year, according to estimates released by state Budget Secretary Charles Zogby.

Zogby certified that $776 million in slots revenue will be available in the state Property Tax Relief Fund for distribution. Under state law, the budget secretary certifies the amount of revenue in the fund each April 15.

Last year, some 2.6 million homeowners were approved for property tax cuts averaging in the $200 range.

However, the actual amount of property tax relief will vary by school district. The state Education Department will notify each school district of the specific level early next month.

The annual tax relief is based on a share of slots revenue generated by casinos.

The relief involves a cut in school taxes only and is not a rebate. It will show up as an amount subtracted from the tax bills that school districts mail out in early summer.

Homeowners receive the tax cut for a primary residence only if they are registered with the state's homestead exclusion program through their county tax assessment office. The application period for this year ended March 1.

rswift@timesshamrock.com