SELINSGROVE - Joshua Druckenmiller, of Paxinos, toured this month with the Susquehanna University Choir, the flagship choral ensemble of the university's Department of Music.

Druckenmiller, a sophomore majoring in music, is a 2010 graduate of Shamokin Area Middle/High School and a son of Robert and Diana Druckenmiller.

The group, which toured from March 3 to 18, performs in service of the institution on and off campus, presenting several concerts each year and touring annually. The choir prepares and performs religious and secular choral literature and the major monuments of the choral/orchestral repertoire.

Over the years, the choir has performed at the Salzburger Dom, Coventry Cathedral, Notre Dame de Paris, Chartres Cathedral, Palazzo dei Congressi di Firenze, Basilica di San Marco a Venezia and the ancient Cathedral de Cuernavaca in Mexico City. The choir has recorded 19 volumes and has been featured nationwide on the "Lutheran Series of the Protestant Hour," as well as on National Public Radio, the Satellite Radio Network and the worldwide Armed Forces Network.

SELINSGROVE - Kyle Stavinski, of Elysburg, was one of 16 Susquehanna University students to present research at the annual Eastern Psychological Association Meeting.

Stavinski's research titled "Comparing Volunteerism in Students to Learning Styles and Personality" was presented during the March conference held in Pittsburgh. In keeping with Susquehanna's tradition of faculty-student collaboration, he was advised by Barbara Lewis, associate professor of psychology at Susquehanna.

Stavinski, a senior majoring in psychology, is a graduate of Southern Columbia Area High School. He is a son of Corey and Greg Stavinski.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following hearings took place Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones. Defendants who waived their cases or were held for court were ordered to appear for arraignment at Northumberland County Courthouse, Sunbury, at which time they can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Harry N. Bendas, 54, of 1 Main St., P.O. Box 45, Locustdale, waived to court charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, driving on the wrong side of the road, driving under suspension, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of an adulterated or misbranded controlled substance relating to a March 1 incident along Route 901 near Locust Gap.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Kelly Campbell.

n Corey R. Yentsch, 27, of 237 E. Avenue, Mount Carmel, pleaded guilty to harassment and criminal mischief and was ordered to pay a $600 fine plus costs and make restitution totaling $395.

Additional charges of resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness were withdrawn.

Yentsch was charged by Mount Carmel Cpl. Christopher Buhay in connection with a March 24 disturbance at Park and Market streets.

n Doris M. Machuzak, 66, of 476 W. Girard St., Atlas, formerly of Marion Heights, pleaded guilty to harassment and was ordered to pay a fine and costs totaling $454. Additional charges of simple assault and disorderly conduct were withdrawn.

Machuzak was charged by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Matthew Filarski with assaulting her husband, Joseph Machuzak, on March 21 at 138 E. Melrose St., Marion Heights.

n A charge of possession of drug paraphernalia filed by Mount Carmel Township Police Chief Brian Hollenbush against Edward K. Davis, 33, of 456 E. Columbia Ave., Atlas, was withdrawn.

The charge was filed in connection with an Oct. 11 incident in the 300 block of East Columbia Avenue in Atlas.

n Shawn W. Johnson, 42, of 148 Steelers Lane, Shamokin, and Kevin Eric Eltringham, 28, of 1423 W. Arch St., Coal Township, waived to court charges of theft and receiving stolen property.

Johnson and Eltringham were charged by Trooper Mark Adams of state police at Stonington with stealing $1,000 worth of scrap metal from Barry L. Libby, of 3220 Upper Road, West Cameron Township, on Jan. 31 and selling it at Stoneroad's Recycling.

Reading Anthracite event postponed

Community Day for the Reading Anthracite Company and West Spring LLC scheduled for today has been postponed to April 14 due to inclement weather. The event will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the new Saint Nicholas Plant, 46 W. Mt. Laffee Road, Pottsville, and at the West Spring Mine near Locust Gap. Call 624-4722 or 624-4724 if interested in attending the free event. Limited seating is available. Visitors can see the new hydraulic shovel and tour an operating coal mine. Light refreshments will be served.

Street sweep schedule set

COAL TOWNSHIP - The township has released the following schedule for week two of street sweeping:

Monday morning: North side of Lynn Street and Park Avenue from Ash to Jackson and South Side of Wabash Street from Howard to Meade.

Monday afternoon: South side of Lynn Street and Park Avenue from Ash to Jackson and north side of Wabash Street from Howard to Meade.

Tuesday morning: Both sides of Chestnut Street from First to Maple and south side of Mohawk Street from Sherman to Thomas.

Tuesday afternoon: Both sides of Oak Street from Arch to Spruce and north side of Mohawk Street from Sherman to Thomas.

Wednesday morning: North side of Spruce Street from First to Ash and both sides of Chemung Street from Howard to Hunter.

Wednesday afternoon: South side of Spruce Street from First to Ash.

Thursday morning: North side of Mulberry Street from First to Locust and both sides of Webster Street from Hunter to Tioga.

Thursday afternoon: South side of Mulberry Street from First to Locust.

DANVILLE - Two teens injured in Wednesday night's hit-and-run accident involving an alleged drunk driver near Mount Carmel Area Elementary School were discharged Thursday from Geisinger Medical Center, while a third remained in serious condition.

Tyler Wondoloski, 18, of 802 W. Fifth St., Mount Carmel, and Seanna Zimmerman, 13, of 449 E. Seventh St., Mount Carmel, were discharged after being admitted in fair condition, according to a hospital spokeswoman. Andrew Campbell, 16, of 411 N. Maple St., Diamondtown, remained in serious condition Friday at Geisinger.

Campbell and Zimmerman were flown to the medical center by Life Flight helicopter following the 8:30 p.m. accident, while Wondoloski was transported by ambulance to Geisinger.

Two other teens involved in the accident, Chelsea Troutman, 14, of 242 S. Peach St., Mount Carmel, and Jarret Schultz, 17, of 236 S. Poplar St., Mount Carmel, were taken by ambulance to Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital, where they underwent emergency room treatment before being released.

All five teens are students at Mount Carmel Area Junior-Senior High School.

Mount Carmel Township police reported Victor Edward Swaboski III, 38, of 320 S. Beech St., Mount Carmel, a teacher at Shamokin Area Elementary School, was driving east on Beaverdale Highway near Mount Carmel Area Elementary School when his blue Jeep Liberty traveled onto the berm of the road and struck Wondoloski, who was riding a bicycle in the same direction in a grassy area off the highway.

Police said Wondoloski and the Jeep Liberty then crashed into Zimmerman, who was walking. The Jeep, Wondoloski and Zimmerman then reportedly struck Campbell, who was either riding his bike or walking alongside the bicycle, police said.

Police said they were unsure at this point if Troutman and Schultz, who were walking with their friends, were struck by the Jeep or by other victims and debris.

Swaboski, who fled from the scene but was apprehended a short time later hiding in a wooded area in Mount Carmel, was charged by Mount Carmel Township Chief of Police Brian Hollenbush and Patrolman Daniel Politza with multiple offenses including aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under the influence of alcohol, hit and run and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Swaboski, who remained incarcerated at Northumberland County Prison in Sunbury on Friday in lieu of $100,000 cash bail, has been suspended without pay from his teaching position until at least the remainder of the school year.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School remembered one of its own Friday with "Click for Nick Day."

Nicholas Girolami was on his way to school for his first day as a junior at Lourdes in 1998 when he was killed in a one-car accident. He was not wearing his seat belt and was ejected from the vehicle.

Nick would have turned 31 years old on Friday.

High school students gathered in the school's gymnatorium at 1 p.m. for the program. Two small tables, each with a lit candle, were set up on the gym floor. On one was a photo of Girolami and on the other a proclamation from Northumberland County Commissioners declaring Friday "Click for Nick Day" in Northumberland County.

Coal Township Patrolman Chris Lapotsky presented "Survival 101" to the students, which showed a variety of crashes and their effects on the human body. He also relayed several personal experiences when responding to fatal accidents. The slides depicted in graphic detail real accident scenes, most of which happened locally. He talked of the importance of wearing a seat belt and the dangers of driving drunk, fatigued, distracted and speeding.

"It is very important you stay in your seat belt," Lapotsky said." It is your best chance for survival."

Lapotsky also spoke of the devastating social aspect that being in an accident has on family and friends.

"One bad decision can destroy a household. We all want you to be with us for a long, long time," he said.

Northumberland County commissioners Rick Shoch and Stephen Bridy presented to Girolami's parents, Sabrina and Joseph Girolami, with the county's proclamation. Shoch read the text of the proclamation, and Nick's mother then addressed the students.

"When you lose a child, the most fearful thing is that people forget," Sabrina said. "We never saw our son in a tux, never saw him graduate, never saw him go to college, never saw him walk down the aisle and we'll never have grandchildren from Nick. Fourteen years and there isn't a moment we don't think of him and have him in our hearts."

She also reminded the student body that what happened to her family can happen to anyone.

"One bad decision can become a lifetime of pain for everyone," she said. "My son was not invincible."

Northumberland County Coroner James Kelley also spoke at the program. He talked of the countless number of death notifications has had to make since being coroner.

"Something as simple as putting on a seat belt can save your life," Kelley said. "It only takes a couple of seconds to put it on."

He encouraged everyone to not only wear their seat belts, but to make sure everyone in the vehicle is wearing theirs as well.

Lourdes Senior Lauryn Leach, president of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), presented Sabrina Girolami with a bouquet of flowers in honor of her late son on his birthday. She accepted, fighting back tears.

Leach, who was the driving force behind "Click for Nick Day," with the assistance of the SADD officers, hopes the program helped her fellow students understand the very real dangers of being in a car accident.

"I thought it was a great way to remember one of our own students and raise awareness so this doesn't happen," Leach said.

FOUNTAIN SPRINGS - Emergency and outpatient procedures are not permitted at Saint Catherine Medical Center Fountain Springs, the state Department of Health announced Friday.

Also, no patients remain at the hospital, according to a press release from the department.

"The ban was issued to protect the health and safety of patients. The department determined the medical center does not have the means to obtain the proper equipment and supplies for surgical, outpatient and emergency services," the release states.

Holli Senior, deputy press secretary for the department, would not explain what "having the means" referred to.

"I can't elaborate at this time, given that it's an ongoing situation," Senior said Friday.

The department has been working with the hospital to "continue to monitor operations and take whatever corrective actions may be necessary," the release states.

The press release also states the Department of Health has contacted the state Department of Labor & Industry to assist employees who may be affected.

When asked if the hospital would close, Senior said, "It would be premature to say that."

The ban does not include operations at the hospital's long-term care facility, the release states. About 30 patients remain there. According to the medical center's website at www.stchc.com, the hospital is home to 67 beds for those with acute illness and has 40 beds for those needing long-term care.

"It is a sad day for our employees and our community," Jennifer M. Pisarchick, administrative director of Strategic Planning and Marketing for Saint Catherine, said in an email Friday. "Saint Catherine Medical Center is no longer accepting new admissions or providing outpatient testing or emergency department services. At this time, I am not able to respond to any specific issues and ask for your patience and understanding."

Friday's announcement is the latest in a round of actions taken by the Department of Health concerning Saint Catherine.

A ban on new admissions and surgeries was instituted March 23 as a result of an investigation to determine adherence to state licensure and federal Medicare and Medicaid regulations.

The investigation determined there were serious deficiencies and violations at the hospital, according to the letter to Merlyn Knapp, president/CEO of Saint Catherine, from the Department of Health.

An appeal by the hospital to the Health Policy Board has not yet been received, Senior said.

The department may lift the ban on new admissions if it finds an "acceptable plan of correction and the conditions of the facility have improved to where serious violations of the laws and regulations cited above no longer exist and no significant threat to the health and safety of residents at the facility is present," the letter to Knapp states.

The letter also states that future action to the hospital and its license is not ruled out. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services may also take action, according to the letter.

On Monday, the hospital's board of directors held a meeting but did not comment afterward.

Also Monday, PPL Electric Utilities filed a lawsuit against Saint Catherine and five affiliate entities in county court. The document PPL filed to start the lawsuit, a praecipe for summons, contained no details about the claim but did have a demand for a jury trial.

MOUNT CARMEL - Emily Homanick's voice cracked when she said "thank you" to state Sen. John Gordner and Rep. Kurt Masser.

Her neighbors dried their tears, too, when they realized the public funds the politicians brought to Mount Carmel Friday will keep their homes from being flooded.

Gordner, R-27, and Masser, R-107, presented the borough with a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to fund the Shamokin Creek Flood Control project in a ceremony witnessed by affected residents Friday afternoon.

"The borough has fought for this project for 20 to 30 years," Gordner said in the borough council meeting room. "It is something that we have really fought to help with and never gave up on, and now it will be a reality."

'Waited and waited'

The $16 million project will alleviate flooding from Shamokin Creek that has repeatedly damaged several homes, including Homanick's, who lost the contents and appliances of her basement in the Flood of 2011.

"For 20 years, we have waited and waited, and you wonder if it will ever be done. We are all very grateful for the work you have done for us," Homanick said. "If you need us with shovels out there, we will do that, too."

Council president Tony Matulewicz beamed with happiness as he was handed the award letter from Gordner.

"This is a long time coming, but this will alleviate a big financial burden from the borough," he said.

With the grant, the borough has amassed $816,972.83 for its share of the project. The rest coming from borough CDBG grant monies from 2008-2011, according to minutes from council's Oct. 26 meeting. Northumberland County has also pledged $253,390 toward the effort, for a total of $1,070,362.83.

The borough must pay a $787,000 reimbursement agreement to the state, allocate $100,000 for the relocation of utilities, spend $20,000 to acquire coal company land along the creek, and another $160,000 for admistration, legal and engineering costs and contingency funding.

Gordner and Masser gave credit to others who helped, including C. Champ Holman, acting deputy secretary for community affairs for the state Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).

"There were a number of times that I couldn't have a conversation with Kurt or John without the flood project coming up," Holman said. "This is a very competitive grant and its wonderful to see it go through and finally be done."

"I know that John has been working longer on this project than I have, but ever since I came into office, he has guided me through it," Masser said. "He was the one who kept informing me as to who I needed to talk to in order to keep this going."

Also receiving credit was SEDA-COG representatives David R. Grey and William Siegel.

"They have been working the phone with the borough, our offices and state offices constantly, keeping everything on track," Masser said.

Agreement signed

Last week, the borough announced that the Department of General Services issued a letter saying the borough's requirements in property attainment have been met, allowing the project to proceed.

The department added on an obligation of signing a reimbursement agreement with the borough. Council approved the agreement and signed seven copies of it.

"We presented the agreements to Sen. Gordner's aide, who will hand deliver them to the DGS," Matulewicz said.

Siegel said DGS is currently drawing up the specifications for the bid package, which is expected to be awarded in August at the earliest.

SUNBURY - Northumberland County Commissioner Vinny Clausi has threatened to sue SEDA-Council of Governments over its decision Wednesday to reject the nomination of county planning director Pat Mack to the board of the public development organization.

Clausi said every county has two seats and are permitted to fill them as they see fit. The commissioner said he and fellow commissioners Rick Shoch and Stephen Bridy voted to appoint Mack to succeed Clausi on the board after the commissioner decided to resign two weeks ago because he was serving on too many boards.

Meanwhile, Bridy's nomination to the 22-member SEDA-COG board was approved Wednesday. He will succeed former commissioner Merle Phillips.

Clausi said SEDA-COG also challenged his own appointment to the board two months ago.

Each county normally appoints one commissioner and one member of the private sector to the board. Mack said he was told by SEDA-COG board president and Clinton County Commissioner Joel Long that he wasn't going to be appointed because it represented a conflict of interest since he is a county employee.

Bridy said board members told him if Mack was appointed that he could influence his vote.

Mack said SEDA-COG officials plan to review the bylaws closer to determine if he is eligible to serve on the board.

"The bylaws have a lot of gray area to them in terms of who can serve on the board," Mack said Friday.

Attempts were unsuccessful to reach Steve Kusheloff from SEDA-COG's public relations office to further explain the bylaws in terms of who is eligible to serve on the board or if any other the other member counties - there are eight total - have both a county employee and a superior represented.

Clausi said he was furious when he found out Mack's appointment to the board was likely being rejected. Bridy claims there is nothing in the board's bylaws that prohibits Mack from serving even though he works for the county.

Bridy, who said he wouldn't influence Mack's votes on issues, believes the planning director would be a perfect fit for the SEDA-COG board because he is always talking to people in an effort to attract industry and recreation to the county. Also, Mack has a business background that included working with rail customers.

Also, Clausi on Thursday filed a right-to-know request seeking records, correspondence and information pertaining to payroll and benefits paid to SEDA-COG employees, company vehicle use, operating expenses and detailed lists of all current employees and any laid off, terminated or furloughed workers.

Clausi was instrumental in having the former Northumberland County Board of Commissioners pass a resolution in December requesting the state attorney general's opinion on whether the SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority (JRA) should be dissolved in favor of privatizing the local railroad. The attorney general's office has since informed the commissioners that it will not get involved in the issue.

PAXINOS - Employers and educational institutions have registered their companies for the region's premier job fair, set for Wednesday.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Masser's Banquet Hall, routes 61 and 487.

Sponsored by Michael Foods Egg Products, in partnership with partnership with the Pennsylvania CareerLink Northumberland/Snyder/Union counties and the Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, the following businesses will be represented: Aerotek, CSUI Watch Program, Strong Industries, JP Donmoyer Trucking, Michael Foods Egg Products Co., Commonwealth of PA, State Civil Service Commission, Milton Transportation Inc., McCann School of Business and Technology, National Ticket, Triangle Technical School, Empire Beauty School, Primerica, SUN Area Technical Institute, Luzerne County Community College (LCCC), Mountain View: A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Family Home Medical Support Services, Central Susquehanna Opportunities Inc./Community Action Agency, Geisinger Health System, PHEAA (Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency), FNB Bank/Swinford National Bank, Immix Wireless, Professional Drivers Academy, Clear Channel Radio, Pennsylvania CareerLink Northumberland/Snyder/Union counties and the Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce.

CareerLink job fair

The Pennsylvania CareerLink Northumberland/Snyder/Union counties will also be sponsoring a job fair from noon to 3 p.m. Monday, April 9, at the Shikellamy High School, 600 Walnut St., Sunbury.

Job seekers or employers can access all CareerLink services at no cost by visiting their nearest CareerLink location. Admission at both fairs is free.

COAL TOWNSHIP - During the month of March, Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School taught students the value of adding vegetables to their diet as part of National Nutrition Monday.

This year's slogan is "Get Your Plate in Shape," which encourages everyone to remember to add a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and dairy to their plates every day.

During March, school-wide activities at Lourdes were planned to promote better health and nutrition. Action Health presented a "My Plate" program for first through third grades and "Building Strong Bones/Preventing Osteoporosis" for fourth grade. Penn State Nutrition Extension presented a program "Think Your Drink" for fifth through 12th grades. Geisinger Nutrition Education Department will present an interactive program on the importance of nutrition and activity for kindergarten through eighth grades. The pre-school children were involved in a "Try it, you might like it" activity in their classrooms highlighting uncommon fruits and vegetables.

The week concluded with "Go for the Greens" on March 16. In honor of St. Patrick's Day and "Go for the Greens," students were asked to accent their school uniform with green socks, a green tie or a green sweater. Prizes were awarded to the best dressed.

Thank you to the elementary parent organization of Lourdes for helping to provide the surprise treats for the students.

FISHING CREEK TOWNSHIP - A Bloomsburg driver was killed and his two passengers injured in a one-vehicle crash in this Columbia County township Friday evening.

State police at Bloomsburg reported Christopher Stabler, 19, of Bloomsburg, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on Winding Road, a half-mile west of Asbury Road.

Police say Stabler was driving a 2002 Mercury Cougar west on Winding Road and attempting to negotiate a sweeping right curve. For an unknown reason, the Cougar crossed the oncoming lane and traveled onto the dirt berm, where Stabler lost control.

The vehicle traveled approximately 500 feet west on Winding Road, crossed both lanes of travel and then went onto a grassy area north of the right berm, where the Cougar rolled onto the driver side and struck a utility pole with its roof directly above the front seat.

Rachel Bowman, 18, of Benton, a passenger, suffered moderate injuries and was treated and released from Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. No condition could be given for an unidentified 17-year-old from Bloomsburg, who was also a passenger, but officers said he suffered severe injuries.

Divorces

Christa M. Wright, 8873 Route 25, Spring Glen, from Kyle G. Wright, 356 Hollow Road, Dornsife. Married July 4, 1998.

Timothy A. Derk, 118 Academy St., Shamokin, from Jo Waugh-Derk, Box 875, Coal Township RD 2. Married Oct. 16, 1999.

Donald H. Beachel, 37 Hauck Lane, Montandon, from Sabine M. Beachel, 217 Filbert St., Milton. Married Feb. 9, 2008.

Marriage licenses

Nicholas David Menapace and Margarita Ann Manning, both of 108 Mulberry St., Apt. B, Mount Carmel. Issued March 30.

Seth David Lasko and Michele Ann Hoover, both of 2574 Schwaben Creek Road, Rebuck. Issued March 30.

Bryan Polifka and Shauna L. Kwiatkowski, both of 536 Pine St., Kulpmont. Issued March 31.

Property transfers

PNC Mortgage to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, property in Coal Township, $1.

Carmen Fierrio to Charles G. Klischer and Donna L. Klischer, property in Kulpmont, $123,000.

Gene K. Hepner (individually and agent) and Marcie V. Hepner (by agent) to Kathy J. Wolfe and Douglas J. Wolfe, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $47,000.

Debbie J. Klinger and Tamie N. Scherbik to Justin D. Fralick, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $185,000.

Joel W. Haupt, Yvette A. Dressler and Yvette A. Haupt to Joel W. Haupt, property in East Cameron Township.

Lisa M. Lindemuth, Lisa M. Strum and Kenneth Strum to Lisa M. Strum and Kenneth Strum, property in Mount Carmel Township, $1.

Paul K. Sheesley to William J. Dubb and Linda M. Swinehart, property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

Kim R. Bordner and Ryan N. Bordner to Jessica Renard, property in Lower Augusta Township, $124,900.

Kathryn Tinari estate and John Michael Tinari Jr. (executor) to Ellen L. Olimpo, property in Mount Carmel Township, $1.

Mark D. Powlus (co-executor), Doris J. Vellner estate, and Michael D. Vellner (both individually and executor) to Brian E. Snyder, property in Ralpho Township, $105,025.

Todd W. Olvany to Willie M. Marsh Jr., property in Shamokin, $35,000.

Frank P. Bergonia and Elizabeth Anne Bergonia to Eugene J. Eister, property in Kulpmont, $14,000.

Robert F. Renn Living Trust, Betty Jane Renn Living Trust, Betty Jane Renn (trustee) and Roger M. Renn (trustee) to Robert F. Renn Living Trust, Betty Jane Renn Living Trust, Betty Jane Renn (trustee and individually) and Roger M. Renn (trustee and individually), property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

Connie L. Phillips and Fred R. Phillips to Angela M. Shingara and Connie L. Phillips, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $153,900.

Percy R. Troutman and Pauline E. Troutman to Percy R. Troutman, Pauline E. Troutman and the Troutman Irrevocable Residential and Income Trust, property in Washington Township, $1.

Catherine M. Yagodzinskie to Catherine M. Yagodzinskie and Thomas J. Yagodzinskie, property in Kulpmont, $1.

Joan Puketza and William Puketza to Suzanne Edwards, property in Shamokin Township, $1.

Donna J. aka Donna Powell, Lisa Zakashefski and Lisa Skopatz to Donna J. Powell, property in Mount Carmel, $5,000.

William Puketza and Joan Puketza to William Puketza III and Karen A. Katinsky, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Helen Kuzo to Lorraine M. Kandra, John M. Kuzo, Joseph G. Kuzo, Ronald S. Kuzo and Debra K. Siccardi, property in Mount Carmel Township, $1.

Susquehanna Bank to Northeast Apartments LLC, property in Coal Township, $4,667.

Jason D. Leiser and Faith M. Leiser to Michael Ashline and Roxanne Ashline, property in Coal Township, $23,000.

Robert T. Tloczynski and Sharon L. Tloczynski to Sandra F. Smith and Angela Bernetski, property in Mount Carmel, $28,500.

John J. Shuda, Stella Shuda, Donna M. Costello, Lawrence J. Costello, Virginia A. Varano and Frank D. Varano to Michael J. Paulson and Sara E. Paulson, property in Mount Carmel Township, $150,000.

Jacqueline Meredith to Route 901 Development LLC, property in Coal Township, $58,000.

John F. Thomas III and Beverly E. Thomas to Daniel O. Smucker and Lydia K, Smucker, property in Upper Mahanoy Township, $269,000.

Keith F. Dye to Charlotte Dye, Kenneth Dye and Keith F. Die, property in Upper Augusta Township, $1.

James Fetter and Lois Fetter to David E. Fetter, property in Mount Carmel Township, $1.

Gloria J. Azinger and Gloria J. Persing to Charles C. Paul, property in Zerbe Township, $75,000.

Gloria J. Gomez, Gloria Mitcheltree and Juan Gomez to Nathan L. Cooper and Heidi Cooper, property in Upper Augusta Township, $1,

Julia Yastishak to Peter Yastishak, property in Mount Carmel Township, $1.

Curbside recycling planned

GIRARDVILLE - Curbside recycling will be held in Girardville on Wednesday, April 25, and Thursday, April 26. Residents are asked to put all materials out both days.

Items accepted include newspapers, bundled or tied or in brown paper bags; cardboard that is flattened, with no plastic bags; clear, brown and green glass and tin or aluminum cans, glass in one container and cans in another; and plastics No. 1 and No. 2.

Drop off recycling is also available in the borough, but residents are asked not to leave things outside the gates if they are locked. Residents are also asked to not litter or leave non-recyclable goods and to place all items in the correct section of the Dumpster, removing all glass and cans from plastic bags first.

Easter vacation set for Shamokin Area

COAL TOWNSHIP - Shamokin Area schools will be closed from Thursday to Monday, April 9, for Easter vacation. Classes will resume on Tuesday, April 10.

Hope's Haven looking for volunteers

HALIFAX - Hope's Haven, a nondemoninational Christian camp for abused and neglected kids, is seeking camp staff ages 16 and older for its 2012 summer camps from June 11 to 15, June 18 to 22 and Aug. 17 to 19.

The camp needs volunteers who have a desire to share Christ's love with hurting children.

For more information or an application, visit www.hopeshavencamp.org, call 850-9443, or e-mail info@hopeshavencamp.org. Volunteers are asked to respond by Friday, May 4.

Motorcycles courses offered

HARRISBURG - With the arrival of spring, Rep. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-108) and Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107) urge residents who have a motorcycle license or permit to enroll in the 2012 Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program, a free course to enhance riding skills.

These courses are free to Pennsylvania residents who have a motorcycle learner's permit or motorcycle license. All training courses are conducted on a riding range, under the management of certified rider coaches. Permit holders who successfully complete a course will be issued a motorcycle license. The program offers courses for both new and experienced riders at approximately 69 locations across the state from now through October.

A variety of courses are offered, combining classroom and practical riding experience. New for the 2012 riding season is the Advanced Rider Course, a one-day training session modeled after a military training course for licensed motorcyclists who wish to enhance their safety skills through attitude and enhanced awareness. Participants in this course are required to use their own motorcycle.

For more information, visit www.LyndaCulver.com or www.RepMasser.com.

SHAMOKIN - The cost to repair seven condemned flood-damaged homes is five times the price of demolition, acccording to numbers crunched by a local realtor.

Total project costs to knock down six homes on South Rock Street and a seventh on North Third Street are estimated at $203,120.

That's compared to combined estimated repair costs of $1,029,340 for six of the structures, according to appraisals prepared for the city by local realtor Bressi and Martin.

Repair costs for a seventh structure were unavailable.

The combined pre-flood market value of the homes is $78,790, which is less even than the estimated $86,450 - the lowest of the six estimates - it would take to repair just one of the homes.

All were condemned after being ravaged by historic flooding caused by back-to-back storms last September.

The city is targeting the acquisition of the properties through sale in order to undertake the demolition project.

That hinges on approval of an application for $203,120 from the Hazardous Mitigation Grant Program through Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Needs assistance

Without financial assistance from the federal and state government, the project is impossible, given the Shamokin's meager budget.

It won't be until August or September that City Hall finds out the fate of the application - along with a separate application for $1.2 million to make repairs to Shamokin Creek's stone channel.

It remains unclear exactly what property owners would be offered for their homes.

"FEMA hasn't communicated with us very well on that," said city Clerk Steve Bartos. "They will get some kind of compensation for the demolition of their homes. We're buying them out and then we pay for the demolition."

Of the $203,120 sought, the city could be on the hook for $6,093.60, according to its grant application.

The federal share of the grant would be 75 percent, or $152,340. The remaining funds would come from the state.

Apart from property acquisition and demolition - the two largest expenses - other costs include engineering, labor and land stabilization and restoration.

Six of the seven homeowners signed off in December to apply for the grant. The seventh property owner is deceased and city officials will look to purchase the environmentally hazardous property in a May judicial sale.

The signatures were a necessity for the application.

"We couldn't have submitted an application without them," Bartos said.

The program is completely voluntary and despite the condemnations, a property owner could decide against demolition.

Targeted for demolition are a row of homes from 10-16 S. Rock St. as well as 44 and 48 S. Rock St. and 606 N. Third St. All were condemned by the city after the Flood of 2011.

If knocked down, deed restrictions would be put in place to keep the area off-limits to any kind of development. The land would be stabilized in the event of future flooding and remain simply a grassy area.

An alternative to demolition would be a stream channelization project and the installation of a small levee or flood wall to protect the homes, according to the grant application.

That project would far exceed the initial $500,000 cost estimated made by various government officials, engineers and contractors, the grant application says.

Shamokin has received $41,120 from FEMA for emergency costs incurred during the September flooding.

Of that sum, $37,620.47 was deposited to a city bank account Friday. The remainder had previously been received.

That money is reimbursement for, among other expenses, debris removal and disposal and emergency services, Bartos said.

TREVORTON - When the Trevorton Ambulance squad purchases a new vehicle, they see it as a chance to help someone else. It's become tradition to donate the older vehicle to another squad.

That's exactly what members did Saturday, when squad president Gene Geise handed over the keys to a 1994 ambulance to the Lower Augusta Township Fire Company.

"We have our new ambulance in service, so we want to make sure the old one keeps doing some good," Geise said.

Rodger Babnew, president of the Lower Augusta Township Fire Company, said the company is considering adding a second quick response unit, so the donation comes at a perfect time.

"When Gene called us, I was so surprised," Babnew said. "We are very appreciative of their generosity."

Assistant chief Mark Minnier said the donation from Trevorton will help the company be more of a help to their neighbors.

"A second unit will give us the opportunity to have a better response in different areas of the township," he said.

Third such donation

The gift marks the third time Trevorton Ambulance has donated an old vehicle to another organization.

"The first time, we gave it Mountain View Manor to help them transport patients," Geise said. "The second time, the ambulance went to Shamokin Area Community Hospital when they were starting up their Medic 9 Quick Response units."

The new Trevorton Ambulance, a 2011 Ford, cost approximately $58,000 and was purchased with funds raised over 16 years.

"Every penny spent on the ambulance comes from either public donations or through grants," the president said.

The new model features many state-of-the-art items that affect function and safety.

Secretary Sharon Hoffman pointed out six-point harness seat belts that will allow emergency personnel to work on patients but not be "whipped around" while the ambulance is in motion.

The squad will also save money on fuel because the new rig runs on gasoline and not diesel fuel like the old one.

Trevorton's new vehicle was put into service March 12 thanks to volunteer Sue Houser, who affixed the proper decals. Officials have been pretty pleased with the new ambulance.

"(It) runs so much smoother and quieter. It is a much improved ride than the other one," Geise said.

Officials hope the new ambulance will attract people who would like to help others.

"We are always looking for volunteers to help with the ambulance service," Geise said. "We need more people in our ranks."

MOUNT CARMEL - Mount Carmel Area Rescue Squad's annual fund drive kicked off April 1, with donation requests mailed to residents of its primary coverage area.

Rescue squad officers stress that no solicitations will be sought either by telephone or door-to-door.

Donations can be mailed to Mount Carmel Area Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 372, Mount Carmel 17851.

"The cost of running your household goes up every year. The costs of keeping our rescue units operational and paying utility costs have also increased dramatically," Jason Godin, rescue squad president, said in a press release. "The continued operation of the rescue squad is solely dependent on residents' response to this annual appeal for donations."

The annual fund drive is the rescue squad's primary source of revenue.

Godin said no direct municipal tax dollars have ever been used for vehicle and equipment purchases and toward building construction costs.

Mount Carmel area residents are asked yearly to contribute $20 per household to help the rescue squad continue its vital emergency service.

"The rescue squad is finding it increasingly difficult to meet the spiraling costs of providing our services to the community," he said. "We rely on the support of area residents because without it we will not be able to continue operation.

"The members of the Rescue Squad ask that our citizens contribute as generously as possible to this year's drive so that we can continue to provide vital emergency services."

The rescue squad has provided emergency assistance to area residents since 1976, having been recognized among the best emergency service organizations around, he said.

"We hope that you will answer our call for help so the Mount Carmel Area Rescue Squad will be able to be there to answer your call if you ever need emergency help," Godin said.

Motorcycle courses offered

HARRISBURG - With the arrival of spring, Rep. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-108) and Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107) urge residents who have a motorcycle license or permit to enroll in the 2012 Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program, a free course to enhance riding skills.

These courses are free to Pennsylvania residents who have a motorcycle learner's permit or motorcycle license. All training courses are conducted on a riding range, under the management of certified rider coaches. Permit holders who successfully complete a course will be issued a motorcycle license. The program offers courses for both new and experienced riders at approximately 69 locations across the state from now through October.

A variety of courses are offered, combining classroom and practical riding experience. New for the 2012 riding season is the Advanced Rider Course, a one-day training session modeled after a military training course for licensed motorcyclists who wish to enhance their safety skills through attitude and enhanced awareness. Participants in this course are required to use their own motorcycle.

For more information, visit www.LyndaCulver.com or www.RepMasser.com.

Trevorton Senior Action Center

TREVORTON - The regular monthly meeting of the Trevorton Senior Action Center was held March 2, with 15 members present.

The meeting was opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.

Secretary Wanda Heath read the minutes of the last meeting. A motion was made to approve the minutes by Shirley Treon and Robert Sager.

The treasurer's report, read by Sager in the absence of the treasurer, was approved as read by Betty Jane Bohner and seconded by Patricia Kaminskie. Members voted to pay any outstanding bills that were due.

The travel committee report, given by Joyce Koppen, included the following trips: "Jonah," on April 12 at Sights and Sound, which includes bus, lunch and show; "A Salute to Veterans," at Ehrharts Waterfront Banquet Center on May 24 for $65, which includes bus, lunch and show; Wildwood, N.J., June 3 to 7, includes evening entertainment, a day in Atlantic City and a guided trolley tour in Cape May, $375 all-inclusive, reservations and $75 deposit due, balance due on May 1; Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre to see "Church Basement Ladies Part II," on Sept. 27, includes lunch, bus and show, $64; Hollywood Casino trip on April 10, $20 with $25 rebate and $5 lunch voucher, and Christmas show on Nov. 1 at the American Music theatre, $68, includes bus, lunch at Shady Maple Buffet and show. Contact Koppen at 797-3695 or Judie at 648-0105.

A scholarship program is being set up by the Area Agency on Aging with three-month calendars being sold through all the centers to offer a $2,500 scholarship to a student in the culinary arts department of the Northumberland County Career and Technology Center (NCCTC) to further their education in that field. This is a memorial scholarship honoring the late James and Pat Rosini. Calendars can be obtained at all the centers.

The Trevorton center will also contribute to the American Heart Association from a bakeless bake sale and will choose a memorial to honor Pat Rosini, who was such a huge part of all the centers in Northumberland County.

"Words cannot describe what a beautiful individual this lady was and how much time and dedication she provided to everyone she knew. It was a great honor knowing and working with her," said Nina Savidge.

The meeting was adjourned at 2:15 p.m. The next meeting will be held at 12:30 p.m. Thursday.

Most often, older adults find themselves on the receiving end of attempted scams and get-quick-rich schemes. Linked with today's technology, the reasons for being security conscious and Internet savvy increases.

As the number of older adults logging on to the Internet continues to grow, seniors who suddenly find themselves alone are opting for on-line socialization. Unlike meeting someone in person, you don't know who you're communicating with and should be cautious about volunteering personal information at the onset.

There are a lot of fake websites out there, so research the site until you're comfortable that it's legitimate. Whether you're socializing, shopping or just browsing, some sites will ask for a phone number, street address, e-mail address and even your social security number before allowing you access. Protect yourself by entering fake information unless you're sure you're entering a legitimate site. As long as the entries are filled in, you'll be allowed access. Use the same caution with your e-mail account. If you don't recognize the sender, delete the e-mail, without opening it. Solicitations can contain headers like "Your bank statement is ready."

Many department stores do random surveys by asking for your phone number and e-mail address at the checkout. This is information you may not want to share, especially if there's a line of people behind you. It's not rude to say "I prefer not to give that information" and the salesperson will understand.

Security at home will cost you the price of a small shredder. Throwing away papers showing personal information can provide accessibility to your address, social security number, birth date, etc. Include labels from prescription bottles and solicitation letters from banks, insurance companies, credit card companies, etc. in your pile of shreds.

Residents in nursing homes are not immune from attempts to con them. Not too long ago, a young woman called a resident in the nursing home. Claiming to be her granddaughter, she said her car had broken down in another state; please forward money to get home. After investigating on the resident's behalf, we were able to determine that the call was not from a family member, but was an attempt to get money. Our next step was to contact the district attorney's office. While this was a rare occurrence, nursing homes should have safeguards in place to protect the resident. Asking questions during the admission process will help you determine how far the facility's security measures extend.

Remember, if it sounds too good to be true or sounds unusual, it is. Never send money anywhere based on a phone call and always verify by calling your friends and family first.

"Sensible Seniors" is a monthly column for and about older adults. The information in "Sensible Seniors" is provided by the staff of Mountain View: A Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Coal Township.