ELYSBURG - Tyler James, of 728 Bear Hollow Road, Elysburg, a sophomore at Bloomsburg University, has earned dean's list honors for the spring semester with a 3.6 grade-point average. James is majoring in accounting.
He is a son of Mike and Denise Slotterback and Mark James, and a grandson of Don and Tanka Shuey, Rich and Barb Wormald, Lois Herman and Flo and Kathy James.
James is employed part time at Brewsers Sports Grille, Coal Township.
MOUNT CARMEL - Eric M. Jepko, a son of David and Kathy Jepko, of Mount Carmel, graduated from Pennsylvania College of Technology, Williamsport, May 12, with an associate of applied science degree in heating, ventilation and air conditioning technology. After completing additional courses in welding, basic construction and industrial plumbing, he also earned a certificate in plumbing.
While at Penn College, Jepko studied to become certified by the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) and achieved bronze certification. With continuing education courses through NORA, he will work his way to silver and finally gold certification, ensuring that his skills are up to date.
Jepko will continue his education this fall at Pennsylvania College of Technology to pursue a bachelor of applied science degree in building automation technology.
Jepko is a grandson of Elaine Jepko, of Mount Carmel, and the late Zachary Jepko, and Rita Kowaleski and the late Frank Kowaleski, and a great-grandson of Lillian Mathias and the late Joseph Mathias.
ELYSBURG - The following memorials were received at the Ralpho Township Public Library.
Birthday memorial
Florence and Theodore Backes from daughters Bertha and Grace.
Joanne Crowl Reber from Paul and Deanna Edmunds.
In honor of:
Linda and Tom Wodzak from Ruth Wiehe.
In memory of:
Jerry Angle from Sankey and Juanita Brumley.
Gloria Bohr from Eleanor Blackwell; Phyllis Boyer and Cheery Cherry Chicks.
Joseph P. Burak from Diane and Bob Ambrose.
Connie Crawford from Sherry Humphrey.
Kenneth S. Crowl from Ted and Pam Yeager.
Billy E. George from Dick and Joyce Farnsworth; Bob and Cindy Francis; Roberta G. Klock; Carl Sokoloskie and sons Bryan and Carl Jr.
Delores "Dolly" Whitney Grinaway from Ralpho Township Class of 1957.
Wayne E. Grow Sr. from Bob and Cindy Francis.
Anita Gurski from Ken and Rita Gurba.
Hillary from Karen Blackway.
Judith Horne from Joe, John and Maria Bressi; Juanita and Sankey Brumley; Ralpho Fish and Game Association; Ralpho Township Supervisors and staff and Dick and Jane Spotts.
Iggy from Diane and Bob Ambrose.
Clark Kase from Ralpho Township High School Class of 1957.
Jean Kersey from Burch Drug Store.
Deborah A. Korbich from Diane and Bob Ambrose.
Dorothy LaCross from Marty and Elaine Eichen.
Joseph Lizzul from Diane and Bob Ambrose,
Richard E. Martini from Len, Connie, Lana and Morgan; Ralpho Township Supervisors and staff.
Peg McDermott from Phyllis Boyer; Sankey and Juanita Brumley.
Joseph J. Motyka from Louise and Howard Howal.
Mary Pisani from Eleanor and Tom Shervinskie.
Roy Sanders from Phyllis Boyer; Dean and Mary Lee Crowl; Beth. Dave, David and Brad Fegley; Rich and Joyce Farnsworth; Helene Hoffman; Joe and Betty Lyons; Joey and Angie; Rich and Cheri; Terry and Cindy; Beryl and Lamar Richie; Jo and Johnny Sheptock; Southern High School Class of 1961; Mike Terrizzi and Melanie Wengrenovich.
Jeanne L. Sandri from Diane and Bob Ambrose.
Peggy Schindler from Mick and Susie Fleming.
Roy Schlesinger from Deno and Judy Langis; Dolores Miller and family; The Municipal Authority of Ralpho Township, board and staff; Ralpho Readers; Marilyn and Lenny Robel; George and Mary Schrader and John and Grace Yost.
Paul D. Scisly Jr. from Joe, Maria and John Bressi.
Cheryl Sincavage from Eddie and Judy Gappa, and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Shervinskie.
Patricia M. Sokoloskie from Carl S. Sokoloskie and sons, Bryan and Carl Jr.
Stanley Stankiewicz from Sherry and Jeff.
Carter Tafner from Burch Drug Store.
John (Red) Thompson from Joe, John and Maria Bressi; Sankey and Juanita Brumley and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Shervinskie.
Rose Wasilewski from Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Shervinskie.
Bobbie Weikel from Dean and Mary Lee Crowl.
Bill Wysock from Mom and Dad.
Lee C. Yeager from Ted and Pam Yeager.
Rose memorials:
Rosaria Calabretta from Brunie and Mike Reilly.
Father Gabriel O.F.M. from Dotty.
Florence Rosetti Petroski from Dotty.
Michael Yastishak from Andy and Sandy Bubnis.
William Haney Sr. from Judy and Eddie Gappa.
Mary Haney from Judy and Eddie Gappa.
Lawrence Gappa from Eddie and Judy.
Helen Gappa from Eddie and Judy.
Debi Gappa from Eddie and Judy.
Edward Kazar from Mary and Brian Major.
Gloria Bohr from Mary and Brian Major.
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Fedorko from their family.
Joseph Chekanski from Beverly.
Billy E. George from Alice and John Parker.
John and Nellie Gilbert from Jean Swank.
George Graden from Jean Swank.
Beverly Swank from Jean Swank.
Lola Trythall from Jean Swank.
Margaret Camp from Ellen Bloom.
Anna Buccanear from Ellen Bloom.
Donald and Jane Lindenmuth from Ellen Bloom.
Carissa Berkheiser from the Otto and Mychak family.
Eric Barnes from the Otto and Mychak family.
Sarah and Norman Reed from Sharon and Bob Reed.
Jackson Reed from Sharon and Bob Reed.
Eric Blodgett and Krena Blodgett from Lynn and Branden Blodgett.
George and Hettie Richard from Dan and Jean Honaberger.
George Honaberger from Dan and Jean Honaberger.
Barbara Knoebel from sons Rick and Brian.
Paul, Vernon, Blaine and Mervyn Cook and Eugene Reidinger from Joe and Mavis Reidinger.
Joan Haas from Bertha Backes.
Gerald R. Lutz from nephews.
Russell J. Lutz from grandsons.
Samantha and Zachary Lutz from grandparents.
Anna Sorochka from grandsons.
Dimitri Sorochka from grandsons.
In honor of Joseph V. Reidinger from Mavis, Joey and Gary Reidinger.
Online now:
If given the warning that you were not to, would you still proceed to audibly cheer for your child at graduation?
Last week's question:
Do you agree with NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg's proposal to ban large servings of soda and other sugary drinks at restaurants, delis and movie theaters in an effort to fight obesity?
Yes: (90 votes) 31.58%
No: (192 votes) 67.37%
Not Sure: (1 votes) 0.35%
Total Votes: 285
Elysburg
What's next? Ban the large pizza and only serve a small 6-inch pie?
Mount Carmel
Mr. Bloomberg is the mayor. It is NOT the job of government to dictate to us. I rarely drink soda, but if I choose to have one, as big as I can lift, why is he butting in? Prohibition has never worked. In fact, now I want a soda! Go figure.
Kulpmont
No. They tell us when we are pregnant to use diet this and that. Then an article is published that there can be adverse effects to a fetus. Just recently our school district has taken all salt shakers out of the cafeteria and uses only wheat bread even for hot dog buns - yuck. When I recently went to the school, there was a Coca-Cola delivery truck in front of the school. Personally, I quit adding salt to 90 percent of my food and use very little sugar, ever since I was 19 and am now in my 50s. More education is needed about nutritional eating habits. Start teaching this in the elementary schools, but continue requiring nutrition and exercise classes all the way to 12th grade. Even offer night classes to parents.
Coal Township
If we allow this, then what next? How much toilet paper we can use? How about the types of toothpaste we use?
Shamokin
I agree with Bloomberg that things like too much soda and junk/fast food are making American's more at risk for health problems and obesity. I do not think it is up to him to ban such behavior, however. I believe that people who engage in overdoing of this lifestyle, as well as smoking, excessive alcohol use and drugs, should be charged higher insurance premiums. If they do not change behavior, let them pay for it. But, don't tell me I can't buy an occasional soda if I choose.
Mount Carmel
When does personal responsibility end and big brother take over? So you can't buy a large soda? Buy three smaller. What about the candy, popcorn and other snacks? Can he control what's eaten at home? It's your responsibility to take care of yourself, not the government or anyone else. I'm fat because of my actions and no one else's. McDonald's doesn't ram that food down my throat. If you are a drug addict, alcoholic, food addict or have any other "obsession," it's your choice and no one else's. It's still a free country and we don't need "big brother" making our personal choices. Work on solving the real problems in our country - homelessness, teen pregnancy, no jobs and on and on.
Coal Township
What Mr. Bloomberg needs to stop doing is trying to attract attention on the national stage to promote his political agenda for a run at the presidency in 2016. Bloomberg has a past history of jumping on the bandwagon of all sorts of topics that are politically correct, He thinks by doing so he will be viewed as a champion to the people who are supporting these views. It seems that everything he has been against has come back to bite him in one way or another. He has promoted the doing away with the private ownership of handguns only to find out that statistics prove that law-abiding people with guns are a deterrent to crime. I could go on and on, but he is just another bum in a suit.
Shamokin
Morons who will not solve real problems that they were elected to do are abusing power they possess. Fix the roads, middle class tax problems, health care and school woes, to name just a few.
Coal Township
Absolutely not! Bloomberg is a blooming idiot to begin with, and he is a national leader to abolish the Second Amendment. He is one of those politicians who wants it done his way and nothing else matters. If a person wants a large soda, so what? Maybe the person is the type who drinks a lot with a meal or just enjoys a large cold drink. This is starting to skate into the area of a person's rights, and is just another step by government to control people. What's next? An attempt to tell you how long you can stay in church? It's just like Mrs. Obama leading a charge against child obesity. Where are the results for this? This was nothing more than a move to help Obama get re-elected.
Coal Township
Bloomberg is an idiot! People will eat a bucket of chicken and buy three small sodas. Liberals always want to dictate what others should do.
Mount Carmel
What will be next? Is Bloomberg going to come into our homes and monitor what we eat? Do we not have freedom of choice? Who does this guy think he is? This lad better not put on one pound of weight for the remainder of his term. This is the epitome of what's wrong with government today, they can find nothing more important to do. If I want to drink a soda while watching a movie and I'm not harming anyone, why would you want to stop me?
COAL TOWNSHIP - Shamokin Area Business Manager Steve Curran reported Al Varano, Frank Varano, Pat Morrison and Linda Yanick are retired teachers from the district, while Carol Boyce resigned. The salaries and benefits of each of the teachers were listed in Wednesday's paper, indicating they were current employees of the district. Curran also explained that the list of salaries and benefits for district employees were for the 2011-2012 school year. Curran also said that although their salaries are not paid in 2011-2012, the district must still account for their unused sick day payment, which varies, and all other retirement incentives they were entitled to such as the $16,000 payment to the HRA, and the $6,000 per year paid to the HRA to age 65. All information regarding the employees, positions, salaries and benefits was provided to The News-Item by the school district.
COAL TOWNSHIP - Coal Township Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 317 will hold its flag retirement ceremony on Flag Day Thursday beginning at 6 p.m. at the Coal Township Municipal Building.
The ceremony is open to the public, who are encouraged to attend and bring any old or tattered flags to be properly retired. The public is welcome to bring lawn chairs because there is no seating available.
In July 2003, the Coal Township VFW dedicated a flag drop-off box in front of the township's municipal building on Lynn Street, giving the public a place to drop off flags for a proper disposal. Each week, a member of the post collects the flags and stores them until a retirement ceremony is held.
The post has collected more than 100,000 flags.
Members of the Shamokin American Legion Post 73 and the Ladies Auxiliary will help with the ceremony, which will end with the playing of patriotic music.
The Coal Township VFW would like to express its gratitude to the Coal Township Board of Commissioners and the Maine Fire Company for their help with this ceremony.
SHAMOKIN - The Shamokin Housing Authority is close to an agreement that will once again contract the Shamokin Police Department to provide security details for the Raspberry Hill complex.
At a special meeting Thursday evening, authority board chairman Raymond G. Splane said the paperwork involved only required a few changes.
"We just have to change some wording in the contract, adding clauses that they will provide daily reports and documented times that they check on the property," Splane said. "We hope to have the contract in place by July 1."
The police had provided patrols at the complex in the past, but stopped in 2010 when the the authority and police department failed to reach a contractual agreement. The authority had hired a private firm, used their own personnel for security and planned to install cameras at the complex.
In other business
The board voted to spend $2,000 on attorney fees to join a class-action lawsuit with other housing authorities to restore more than $400,000 in operating reserve offset funds cut by the federal government.
By a 3-0 vote, with Splane, Joseph A. Rocuskie and James Picarelli voting for the measure, the board decided to reduce the time period of eviction for "other causes" from 30 to 15 days in lease agreements with public housing tenants.
Authority officials were not available Friday to define "other causes."
Shamokin Housing Authority also accepted a free and clear donation of the properties at 42-44 E. Independence St., currently the home of Weekend Furniture. The board did not announce any plans Thursday for the locations.
Pipe to be replaced on Mile Post Road
UPPER AUGUSTA TOWNSHIP - A PennDOT maintenance crew will close a section of Route 4004 (Mile Post Road) to replace a large pipe and improve drainage. The work will be performed between Route 4008 (Shikellamy Avenue) and Mount Pleasant Road.
Mile Post Road will be closed from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday. There will be a red-arrow detour in place, using Route 4004 (Fourth Street), Route 4006 (Mile Hill Road) and Mount Pleasant Road.
This work will be performed pending favorable weather.
Shamokin School board to meet
COAL TOWNSHIP - The Shamokin Area School District board of directors will meet for a regular monthly meeting on Tuesday. The work session begins at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium, followed immediately by the voting meeting.
LOCUST TOWNSHIP - Quick action by firefighters from four communities prevented flames from spreading through a two-story duplex dwelling in a rural section of this Columbia County township late Friday afternoon.
"It could have been worse," said Numidia fire chief Jack Mack while he and other firefighters investigated the damage caused by a blaze that climbed an outside wall and entered the walls of the home of Dan McCloskey, 47, West Lake Glory Road, and his family. The dwelling is located about one-quarter of a mile off Route 42, known as Numidia Drive.
No injuries were reported, but several firefighters were treated at the scene for heat exhaustion.
It was unknown at press time if the occupants, a family of three, have been displaced as a result of the fire.
The McCloskey's and their 16-year-old grandson, Christopher, were not at home when the fire started.
Flames and smoke were seen by a neighbor identified as Adam Wojtowski, whose home is approximately 500 yards from the McCloskey residence.
Wojtowski said he saw smoke and flames and ran through an open field toward the residence, noticing fire on the east sidewalk at the rear of the duplex.
When he arrived, Wojtowski attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose, but was not successful. Wojtowski's wife, Karen, called the Columbia County communications center to report the fire. The alert was relayed to emergency officials in Northumberland County, summonding additional units from Ralpho Township.
Fire units from Numidia, Catawissa, Montour Township and Elysburg responded along with Locust Township police and fire police.
Despite being in a remote section, firefighters from Numidia and Catawissa were, who were the first to arrive, successfully confined the flames to the outside and roof on the rear section of the duplex. They attacked the fire in the upper portion and walls of the structure, using water from booster tanks and from a supply pool set up some distance down a driveway.
"We're thankful no one was hurt," McCloskey said. "What we lost can always be replaced."
The home and contents are insured, according to the couple. McCloskey said the modern two-story home was constructed in the late 1990s.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by Mack.
MOUNT CARMEL - Red Tornado pride filled the packed gymnasium at Mount Carmel Area High School Friday night, when 111 graduates were honored for their various talents during commencement ceremonies, featuring addresses by a 1965 alumnus and the class valedictorian, salutatorian and president.
Members of the talented Class of 2012 were challenged to exceed their expectations, establish meaningful relationships that will help them succeed in life and always be faithful and loyal to their alma mater, friends and family.
After the graduates and faculty entered the gymnasium, class president Dylan Matukaitis delivered a welcoming address.
"Twelve years ago, we began a journey - a long, extensive expedition - that led us to this moment," he said. "Our journey is something like a novel, so unique, epic and memorable. It seems like just yesterday we walked into kindergarten with our heads held high, ready to learn our fundamental golden rules. This was our exposition and introduction to our life's novel. It was where we set up the setting and met our heartwarming cast of characters."
He added, "In the 12 years that have passed between that day and this, I think we can all declare proudly that we have been through a lot. We have experienced a whirlwind of emotions. And here we are at the forefront of the next chapter of our lives. We did it."
Matukaitis thanked administrators, faculty, parents, classmates and community members for their support throughout the 12-year journey.
He concluded, "Begin a novel for your life that you can one day look back on and proudly proclaim - I was here. We were here. We lived. We loved. We've done everything we wanted and it was more than we thought it could be. We left our mark."
Mount Carmel Area Acting Superintendent Bernard Stellar described the class as "impressive." He said the graduates excelled in the arts, music, academics and athletics.
Stellar, who noted there were 46 honor students in the class, told the graduates, "You were special and if you work hard, I'm sure you will be successful."
'Such an honor'
Stellar then introduced the commencement speaker, Dick Bridy, a 1965 graduate of Mount Carmel Area High School who resides with his wife, Ginny, in Cardiff-by-the Sea, Calif.
Bridy is the chief executive officer of DBI Group, a boutique real estate firm that specializes in the development and redevelopment of commercial retail centers and single tenant properties.
He has more than 34 years of commercial and real estate development, brokerage and asset management experience.
Bridy said he cried after being asked by Stellar to serve as the guest speaker because it was such an honor.
"I am very proud to be a Red Tornado," Bridy said.
After encouraging the graduates to display their pride, Bridy discussed the importance of establishing relationships.
"Relationships mean everything in life," he said. "The key to establishing relationships is creating dialogue. If you have mutual benefit and mutual respect in your relationships, there is no limit on what you can achieve in life."
Bridy also said it was vital to find mentors in life who are trustworthy and very supportive.
He recalled the advice given to him by his high school freshman football coach who stated, "You got to live life with reckless abandon."
"You have to live life with passion," Bridy said. "That's a key to being successful."
Bridy told the Class of 2012 to "take little steps at a time" when meeting tough challenges.
"Life is about having hope," he said. "As a proud Marine, I always try to live by the slogan, 'Semper Fidelis,' which means - always faithful, always loyal. That is more than a phrase. It's a way of life."
Bridy has supervised the redevelopment of 14 shopping centers with more than 3.5 million square feet of leasable area. He also has brokered the purchase and leasing of over $375 million of commercial properties for clients and partners, and negotiated over 1,630 leases.
He earned letters in football, track and baseball and was a member of the 1965 Mount Carmel Area High School baseball championship team.
Following high school, he attended the University of Pennsylvania and received a bachelor of science degree from the Wharton School Class of 1969. He served in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and several bases in the continental U.S. with all three Marine Corps divisions.
He attended San Diego State University Graduate School of Business, where he earned an MBA in 1975 while majoring in finance.
In May 2008, he graduated from the EMBA program at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business while majoring in executive management.
He is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Phoenix, where he will complete his dissertation by the end of the year.
Bridy also has been selected to act in 21 operas during the past 12 years.
He was presented with a special gift by Stellar after his address.
Bittersweet
Salutatorian Kirsten Sinopoli opened her address by thanking everyone for the roles they played in the development of their high school careers.
"Since our very first day of kindergarten, we have been blessed with outstanding educators who have filled our minds with the knowledge we have today," she said. "We could not have done it without your overwhelming support and encouragement."
She added, "As a senior on the brink of graduating, I can honestly say that I do not want it to come to an end. We've adjusted to each other in such a way that we know one another as more than just a name. It's almost as if we're more than friends, as if we've become a family. It's such a bittersweet moment in all of our lives that we'll certainly remember forever."
Sinopoli challenged her classmates to be different and more than ordinary.
"Go where no person has ever gone before and leave your own footprints," she said. "Instead of following in the path that previous graduates have taken, make your own. I hope that all of you walk out of this gymnasium tonight with no regrets. I love all of you like brothers and sisters and wish everyone the best of luck in your future endeavors."
Interim high school principal and curriculum coordinator Lisa Varano presented numerous awards to the graduates, including one given in memory of Nathan McFadden, who would have graduated this year but died from cancer several years ago. McFadden's brother, Bryan William McFadden, received this year's award.
Interim junior high school principal and athletic director Gregory Sacavage recognized the numerous graduates who earned more than $870,000 in scholarships.
Closing a chapter
Following musical selections by the Mount Carmel Area Chorus, valedictorian Alyssa Buggy presented her address.
In quoting author and lecturer Marianne Williamson, Buggy stated, "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?"
Buggy told her classmates that they have the potential deep within to transform into the desired role they want to achieve. She said their expectations are raised to the standards they believe they can reach.
Buggy, who thanked classmates, mentors and family members for challenging the graduates to exceed their expectations, stated, "Thanks to their help, you are seated here before me at our commencement, closing a chapter in our life, yet just beginning the start of another."
She added, "The Red Tornado pride installed within our hearts is evident in our character and will guide us toward our aspirations.
"Our diplomas are not just an indication of the accomplishments we attained, but they are memoirs of all the days, all the friends, all the memories, and all the laughs we will never forget and will always withhold. We can carry these credentials in our hearts wherever life may take us. Given the fundamentals from our curriculum and extracurricular activities, we gained the ability to learn not only from our triumphs, but also our mistakes. We received the aptitude to become successful in our studies and in our lifestyle. We were given the right tools to enhance our creativity and our drive to make a difference. Our arms are wide open to the endless possibilities we may choose in our future. So be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous."
'Do I make you proud?'
School board vice president Donna James accepted the graduating class and presented diplomas.
The graduates expressed tears, smiles and laughs while leaving the gym during the playing of the alma mater.
The 2012 class song was "Do I Make You Proud" by Taylor Hicks.
The class motto was "Together we have experienced life, separately we will pursue our dreams, and forever, our memories will remain."
The class colors are red and white.
The class flower is fire and ice rose.
In addition to Matukaitis, class officers are David Meyrick Lamb Jr., vice president; Buggy, secretary, and Maura Frasch, treasurer. Class advisers are Lisa Harner and Matthew Cuttic.
Graduates are Ranotta Cierra Ahrensfield, Stephanie Allen, Amanda Jane Amarose, Lucas Charles Amarose, Kimberly A. Andruscavage, Danelle Nicole Avellino, Shayn D. Balonis, Gregory M. Barkus, Reid Joseph Bergeron, Jordan Drew Bettleyon, Mattthew David Bird, Heather Ann Bolick, Blake W. Boyer, Rebeka Marie Buczeskie, Alyssa Buggy, Randy Lee Campell Jr., Victoria Lynn Chapman, Skyler M. Combs, Kyle A. Correa, Jocelyn Marie Darrup, Brandie Dietrich, Angelina Justine Duda, William O. Dutter, Gabrielle Anne Engelke, Nicole Marie Fiamoncini, Kelly Ann Flynn, Maura Kathleen Frasch, Tyler Joseph Gasperetti and Angelica Ann George.
Brittany Ann Gerth, Taylor Leigh Getty, Ryan C. Gidaro, Patrick Joseph Glanzmann, Levi L. Gray, Sean Michael Hamilton, Stephanie Harrison, Cody Lee Haupt, Mikael Stephen Hause, Justin Michael Hine, Tyler James Hodge, Thomas W. Hynoski, Jordin Alexis Jarzinko, Mary Elizabeth Johnson, Trevor Edward Johnson, Cody J. Kehler, Jonathan D. Kerner, Alexandra Kristine Kessler, Jacob Kleman, Cortney Ann Koschoff, Brooke Jean Ann Kruskie, Amanda Nicole Kuzo, David Meyrick Lamb Jr., Nathan Ronald Lahr, Emily Ann Laskowski, Rachel Marie Levengood, Joseph W. Linn Jr. and Justin Michael MacKenzie.
Dylan Thomas Matukaitis, Gabriel M. Matukaitis, HaleyRae Mazur, Jonathan Michael Mazurkevich, Bryan William McFadden, Aaron David McFee, Amanda Michelle McIntyre, Kevin Brian Mekosh II, Mark "Buddee" Merlo Jr., Amber Lynn Miscavage, Chris Charles Molnar, Stephanie Anne Nicola, Samantha Rose Nolan, Maggie Lynn Nolter, William Okronglis Jr., Angelina M. Peters, Tyler James Petro, Marcus D. Pitcavage, Alison Marie Plisiewicz, Brett Joseph Prezkop, Nicole Elizabeth Pyle, Kelsey Ann Resendes, John Joseph Rimokaitis III, Kaleb A. Roney, Gabrielle Nadine Rosko, Jazon Rusk and Michael Steven Saukaitis.
Jeremy Robert Schmoyer, Alyssa Marie Sessions, Kayla Eve Shamus, Mitchell E. Shields, Cody John Shustack, Andrwew Tomasi Sickora, Kirsten Anne Sinopoli, Edward Paul Smerlick, Shawn Alexander Spotts, Angela Marie Stutzcavage, Kyler S. Swatsky, Joseph Allen Szido, Jakob Anthony Taylor, Joshua David Tomedi, Chelsea Leigh Troutman, Kimberly Ann Turlis, Derek J. Urbanavage, Megan Lynn VanDoren, Justin Nguyen Vu, Dante James Weikel, Michael Richard Wisnoskie, Dane Andrew York Jr., Samantha Morgan Yuschock, Tiffany Marie Yuskoski, Brandon Zarko, Kristin Amber Zimmerman and Alec Zsido.
SUNBURY - Ninety-eight properties will be available for sale at the Northumberland County Tax Claims Bureau Judicial Sale at 10 a.m. Wednesday in the public meeting room at the county administration center, 399 S. Fifth St.
Jan Nestico, tax claims bureau director, said opening bids for the properties total $158,245, but noted that number will change depending on how many properties sell and at what price.
She said the registration desk will be open at 9 a.m. Pre-registration is recommended, but not mandatory this year. A complete list of the properties, along with a list of the necessary forms to complete, can be found on the county website at northumberlandco.org. The tax office is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, and from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.
Nestico said all sales are final and payment in full is due the day of the sale at least one hour before the close of the day. All sales are "buyer beware," she said.
Anyone with questions regarding the sale can contact the tax claims office at 988-4116.
Nestico said another judicial sale involving 100 properties will be held in November.
Cleaning up backlog
Prior to 2009, no judicial sales had been conducted in the county since 2001.
In 2009, Nestico said 165 properties were sold among the 230 available for sale, generating $492,231. In 2010, 55 properties were sold among 89 available for sale, generating $186,500. Last year, 47 properties were sold among 85 available for sale, generating $150,392.
"We would like to have two sales this year and two again next year to clean up the backlog of properties that have been sitting out there for many years," Nestico said. "The November sale will bring us up to 2010 and once we get those cleaned up, we can concentrate on what is left over each year from the upset sale. That should also clean up some of the blight that we have so much of and give potential buyers a better property selection. It will also make it easier to find lien holders and banks because there won't be as much of a time lapse between the upset sale and judicial sale."
Nestico explained how the properties become eligible for a judicial sale.
"There is a tremendous amount of work involved in preparing for a judicial sale, not only for the tax claims staff, but for the sheriff's department as well," she said. "Each property must first be exposed to an upset sale. If it does not sell at an upset sale, it is then prepared for a judicial sale."
The director added, "We need to do deed searches on each property first and then must file a petition with the court to set a date for the rule returnable hearing. From there, we must locate anyone having any interest in the property and have them personally served. This includes banks, lien holders, reputed owners or their heirs if they are deceased and have no estate filed. Some of them have as many as 10 heirs that need to be located and served. This is not always an easy task."
Nestico said Northumberland County residents are served by the sheriff's department. Residents from out of the county are served by a sheriff who has been deputized by the Northumberland County Sheriff's Department, and out-of-state residents are served by certified, restricted delivery mail.
She said, "There is a time line for this service, so it keeps the sheriff's department hopping. All interested parties must be served within 90 days of the day the petition is signed by the judge. Sometimes there are several hundred parties to serve. After everyone is served, the interested parties have an opportunity to appear at the hearing to state their case as to why they feel the property should not be sold. If no one shows, the property is included in the sale. The date of the sale is then set by the judge and then we may advertise the sale.
"We do the best we can to locate everyone having any interest in the property, but we also recommend that any potential purchaser do his or her homework and have their own title search done as all tax sales are 'buyer beware,'" Nestico said.
SUNBURY - A lieutenant at Northumberland County Prison, who lost his bid for county sheriff in last year's election, resigned Thursday after allegations he was caught kissing a female inmate prompted an investigation.
Timothy Zerbe, 44, of Sunbury, walked into the county commissioners' office at about 2:30 p.m. and submitted his letter of resignation for health reasons.
But in a written statement Zerbe gave to investigators and obtained by The Daily Item in Sunbury, Zerbe described kissing a female inmate he identified as Courtney Lynn, in a closet at the prison.
Lynn reportedly had been housed at the prison until she was transferred to Snyder County Jail. She returned to Northumberland County Prison on Thursday.
Warden Roy Johnson suspended Zerbe on Monday with pay from his $33,316 position pending an investigation. The issue was brought before the prison board in an executive session Wednesday and the board then agreed to hire D.H. Stark Investigations of Sunbury as a private investigator.
In the same statement that he admitted to kissing Lynn twice inside a closet, Zerbe also admitted to starting a mutual relationship with the inmate in which they said "I love you" in passing, according to reports in The Daily Item.
Zerbe admitted the actions were wrong and he did nothing to stop it.
Zerbe, a Republican, lost to Democrat incumbent Chad Reiner by approximately 4,000 votes in the Nov. 4 general election.
County commissioner and prison board chairman Stephen Bridy stated, "The investigation was conducted by D.H. Stark Investigations and it was handled quickly and brought to a close. I can't get into specifics of this case, but I will say we hope that we have no other incidents inside our prison."
Bridy thanked the prison board, Johnson, prison staff and investigator Degg Stark for handling the case in an expeditious manner and at little expense to the taxpayers.
Bridy said it has not been determined if criminal charges will be filed against Zerbe.
Commissioners Rick Shoch and Vinny Clausi declined comment because of the delicacy of the personnel matter.
WILKES-BARRE - Jordan Haddock, of Coal Township, graduated Summa Cum Laude from King's College with a Bachelor of Science in biology and a minor in neuroscience. He was the recipient of the "Regina Award," presented to the biology student with the highest GPA.
He received the "Best in Science" award for the 2011-12 academic school year and was a member of the Aquinas Society Honor Roll.
Haddock was a three-year member of the King's College Football team and two-year starter at fullback. He was named the 2012 Scholar Athlete of the Year for both King's College and the Middle Atlantic Conference for his achievements on the football field and in the classroom.
He is a son of Joseph and Mary Lee Haddock, of Coal Township.
Nicole A. Slater, of Ashland, received her Doctorate of Pharmacy from the Bernard J Dunn School of Pharmacy in Winchester, Va., in May 2012.
Slater is a 2006 graduate of Tri-Valley High School and was accepted into the accelerated pharmacy program at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va.
Slater was the president of her professional pharmacy fraternity, Kappa Epsilon, Alpha Chi chapter and held leadership positions in numerous organizations including Phi Lambda Sigma and the Alpha Chi Honor Society.
She also received the "Outstanding Graduate of the Year" award from the Shenandoah University Alumni Association and was also awarded a scholarship through the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy to attend a teaching seminar in Kissimmee, Fla., in July. Nicole will continue to specialize in ambulatory care through a post-graduate year one residency program with Amherst Family Practice in Winchester, Va. During her residency, Slater will also complete a teaching certification to become a clinical educator and pharmacy practice faculty member.
Slater is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Slater, of Ashland, and a granddaughter of Harvey and Betty Green, of Lavelle, Gloria Slater, of Mount Carmel, and John and Nanette Slater, Elizabethtown.
The Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library will present its summer reading program beginning Wednesday, June 27.
The program, held on consecutive Wednesdays, will start at 10:30 a.m. and continue on July 11, 18 and 25, Aug. 1 and 8. The theme for this year's program is "Dream Big - READ."
All children are welcome and must be accompanied by an adult. Programs include stories, crafts and snacks, and guest shows.
Planned events
The program will begin with "Songs and Stories Around the Campfire" presented by Matthew Dodd.
On July 11, Eddie Ray will present "Magic Tales."
ZooAmerica will visit on July 18, bringing some of their resident "Creatures of the Night."
On July 25, Tom Yurasits will entertain with "Dream Big - READ."
On Aug. 1, John Andrews will perform "Summer Fun Family Magic Show."
The end of summer reading party will be held Aug. 8. Participants may share their experiences of what they learned, prizes and certificates will be given out.
A concurrent summer reading program will be held for children with advanced reading skills. Participants will receive suggested reading titles in a folder and will receive a stamp for each book read.
Registration begins immediately. Call the library at 648-3202 to register.
Divorces
Janet Mincemoyer, no address listed, from Delbert Mincemoyer, 355 Stoney Batter Road, Watsontown. Married June 25, 1966.
Marriage Licenses
David M. Slotterback, 326 S. Beech St., Mount Carmel, to Elizabeth A. Atchley, 324 S. Beech St., Mount Carmel. Issued June 7, 2012.
William James Davis to Brenda A. Hockenberry, both of 501 Walnut St., Sunbury. Issued June 7, 2012.
Matthew William Ridner to Janelle N. Grexon, both of 154 Butternut Lane, Elysburg. To be issued June 11, 2012.
Rodney Franklin Knock Jr. to Kristin Nicole Newman, both of 814 Mahantango Creek Road, Dalamtia. To be issued June 11, 2012.
Michael W. Mahnke to Stefanie Lynn Miller, both of 119 E. Avenue, Mount Carmel. To be issued June 11, 2012.
Gary A. Weikel, 500 Main St., Ranshaw, to Rachel K. Englerth, 964 Chestnut St., Kulpmont.
Property Transfers
William F. Polites, Jade C. Polites, to Kylee Raybuck, Joshua Kleha, property in Mount Carmel Township, $50,000.
Northumberland County Tax Claims Bureau, Betty R. Giddens, to Jennifer Andino, property in Zerbe Township, $3,949.98.
Equity Trust Co. (custodian), Roger P. Grattan (by custodian), to Ann M. Willis, Joseph Lewandowski, property in Kulpmont, $8,000.
Rose M. Maschal, (executrix), Thelma A. Peters (estate), to Amanda L. Rusesky, property in Marion Heights, $31,000.
Timothy Ryan to Timothy Ryan, Leah Jane Ryan, property in Coal Township, $1.
William Butaitis, Jeanette Butaitis, to Stephen Butaitis, Vincent Butaitis, property in Ralpho Township, $1.
Delphine L. Brown to Kurt F. Brown, property in Upper Mahanoy Township, $1.
Clark's Grove Church, Clark's Grove Evangelical United Brethren Church, Clark's Grove Church of the United Brethren in Christ, Clark's Grove United Methodist Church, to Clark's Grove United Methodist Church, property in Shamokin Township, $1.
Thomas Valeiko, Margaret Valeiko, to Michael McKenna, property in Mount Carmel, $1.
Dina M. Kraynak to Marcin Wrobel, Alexis Matelevich, property in Shamokin, $2,000.
Glenn M. Cunningham, Diana J. Cunningham, to Ryan P. Booney, Tracey J. Booney, property in Upper Augusta Township, $1.
Budget Boo Inc. to Maralyn L. Campbell, property in Kulpmont, $4,500.
Robert L. Greager to Brenda Lee Kosmer, property in Coal Township, $5,000.
Joseph A. Hile III, Tracey L. Hile, to Tanya Marchetti, Thomas J. Rumberger, property in Shamokin, $63,000.
Kristin L. Karpinsky, Kristin L. Matzura, Stephen J. Matzura, to Erin E. Blevins, property in Ralpho Township, $107,000.
John M. Lawler, Deborah E. Vogel, James F. Vogel, to Deborah E. Vogel, Jack W. Lawler, property in Mount Carmel, $1.
William R. Shade Jr., Susan J. Shade, to Ronald P. Weaver, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $75,000.
Chad D. Pensyl to CPensyl Holdings LLC, property in Shamokin, $1.
Robert E. Milbrand, Sandra A. Milbrand, Martha S. Milbrand, to Jared S. Bednar, property in Shamokin, $2,000.
Stephen S. MacIntyre, Annette H. MacIntyre, to Alfred E. Bailey, Barbara G. Bailey, property in Kulpmont, $62,500.
Donna M. Vinske (estate), Patricia A. Moyer (administrator), to Christopher Fallat, property in Kulpmont, $25,000.
Rotary meeting set
KULPMONT - The next planning meeting of the Kulpmont Rotary will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 21, at the LIFE Geisinger Center, 1100 Spruce St. Community service projects will be discussed.
Rotary is a worldwide organization of more than 1.2 million business, professional, and community leaders.
The meeting is open to aynone interested in joining Rotary. Light refreshments will be served. Please R.S.V.P. by June 19 to Alice Erdly or Marc Varano at 373-2100.
Vespers service planned
MOUNT CARMEL - Clergy will be offering a community vesper service in Mount Carmel Town Park at Third and Market streets at 6 p.m. Sunday, June 17. Bring lawn chairs for this celebration in honor of Mount Carmel's 150th anniversary.
MOUNT CARMEL - The following awards and honors were handed out to Mount Carmel Area High School seniors during their Class Night awards ceremony on Tuesday, June 6.
Class of 2012 officers: Dylan Matukaitis, president; Meyrick Lamb, vice president; Alyssa Buggy, secretary; Maura Frasch, treasurer.
Mount Carmel Eagles Aerie 464 Award - Cortney Koschoff and Michael Saukaitis.
Anthracite Area Penn State Club's Edward M. Griffiths II Memorial Scholarship Awards: Cody Shustack and Tiffany Yuskoski.
Aqua PA Award - Nicole Fiamoncini.
Cohen Memorial Award - Cody Shustack.
The Wiest-Wehry Friendship Memorial Scholarship - Victoria Chapman.
Burger King Scholars Award - Kirsten Sinopoli.
Wrestling Boosters Award in memory of Randy Zigarski - Brett Przekop.
Class of 1956 Award - Gabrielle Rosko and Stephanie Nicola.
Babe Ruth Foundation Award - Mikael Hause and Heather Bolick.
District IV Sportsmanship Award Plaque - Bryan McFadden and Ranotta Ahrensfield.
District IV Most Valuable Athlete Plaque - Cody Shustack and Heather Bolick.
Perserverance Award - Bryan McFadden and Taylor Getty.
Tornado Pride Award - Michael Saukaitis.
Principal's Award - Tyler Hodge and Amanda Kuzo.
The Superintendent's Award - Kevin Mekosh.
Kulpmont Lions Club Award - Kimberly Turlis.
Kulpmont Lions Ladies Award - Kristin Zimmerman.
Anthracite Citizens Theater Award - Aaron McFee.
Kulpmont Centennial Committee Award - Alyssa Buggy.
VFW Post 2110 of Mount Carmel Voice of Democracy Essay Contest - Cortney Koschoff, Aaron McFee, Jazon Rusk, Joshua Tomedi.
Perfect Attendance Awards - Heather Bolick, Maura Frasch, Mikael Hause, Cortney Koschoff, Jeremy Schmoyer, Tiffany Yuskoski.
Senior members of the following organizations were honored:
Interact Club - Ranotta Ahrensfield, Amanda Amarose, Danelle Avellino, Jordan Bettleyon, Alyssa Buggy, Heather Bolick, Victoria Chapman, Nicole Fiamoncini, Maura Frasch, Taylor Getty, Brooke Kruskie, Amanda Kuzo, Dylan Matukaitis, Stephanie Nicola, Nicole Pyle, Kirsten Sinopoli, Kimberly Turlis, Tiffany Yuskoski, Kristen Zimmerman.
Rotary Students of the Month - Samanatha Yuschock, September; Aaron McFee, October; Mikael Hause, November; Alyssa Buggy, December; Bryan McFadden, January; Kayla Shamus, February; Kirsten Sinopoli, March; Maura Frasch, April; Michael Saukaitis, May.
Ed Romance Hall of Fame Athletes of the Month - Cody Shustack, September; Mikael Hause, October; Edward Smerlick, November; Kimberly Andruscavage, December; Ranotta Ahrensfield, January; Brett Przekop, February; Meyrick Lamb, March; Heather Bolick, April; Maura Frasch, May; Megan Van Doren, June.
Armed Forces recognition for those entering the Armed Forces - Army, Stephanie Allen, Matthew Bird, Joseph Linn and Justin Vu; Army Reserve, Skyler Combs and Andrew Sickora; Coast Guard, Cody Kehler; Navy, Samantha Nolan. Odyssey of the Mind - Kyle Correa, Jonathan Mazurkevich, Joshua Tomedi and Kevin Mekosh.
Cheerleading - Rebeka Buczeskie, Haley Rae Mazur, Amanda McIntyre and Gabrielle Rosko.
Band - Danelle Avellino, Jordan Bettleyon, Angelina Duda, Tyler Gasperetti, Angelica George, Patrick Glanzmann, Mark Buddee Merlo, Amber Miscavage, Stephanie Nicola, Brett Przekop, Michael Saukaitis, Jakob Taylor, Dante Weikel, Samantha Yuschock, Kristen Zimmerman.
Jazz Band - Tyler Gasperetti, Angelica George, Dante Weikel, Samantha Yuschock and Kristen Zimmerman.
Color Guard - Kyle Correa.
News Reporting - Jordan Bettleyon and Kristen Zimmerman.
Chorus - Kyle Correa, Maura Frasch, Taylor Getty, Brooke Kruskie, Haley Rae Mazur, Kevin Mekosh, Mark Buddee Merlo, Maggie Nolter, Gabrielle Rosko, Justin Vu, Samantha Yuschock.
Music/Drama and the spring musical "Godspell" - Alyssa Buggy, Maura Frasch, Taylor Getty, Gabrielle Rosko, Justin Vu, Samantha Yuschock.
Student Council members - Kimberly Andruscavage, Alyssa Buggy, Victoria Chapman, Maura Frasch, Cody Haupt, Cortney Koschoff, Brooke Kruskie, Amanda Kuzo, Meyrick Lamb, Dylan Matukaitis, Haley Rae Mazur, Jonathan Mazurkevich, Marcus Pitcavage, Michael Saukaitis, Kimberly Turlis and Alec Zsido.
Art Club - Amanda Amarose, Alyssa Buggy, Victoria Chapman, Brandi Dietrick, Nicole Fiamoncini, Kelly Flynn, Maura Frasch, Alexandra Kessler, Dylan Matukaitis, Alison Plisiewicz, Nicole Pyle, Gabrielle Rosko, Jazon Rusk, Jeremy Schmoyer, Kayla Shamus, Kirsten Sinopoli, Joseph Szido, Chelsea Troutman, Dante Weikel.
Top three outstanding Art Club achievements - Dylan Matukaitis, gold; Kelly Flynn, silver; Alexandra Kessler, bronze.
Spanish Club - Amanda Amarose, Danelle Avellino, Reid Bergeron, Jordan Bettleyon, Heather Bolick, Alyssa Buggy, Victoria Chapman, Angelina Duda, Nicole Fiamoncini, Maura Frasch, Tyler Gasperetti, Taylor Getty, Ryan Gidaro, Patrick Glanzmann, Jordan Jarzinko, Jacob Kleman, Brooke Kruskie, Amanda Kuzo, Dylan Matukaitis, Gabrielle Matukaitis, Haley Rae Mazur, Jonathan Mazurkevich, Bryan McFadden, Amanda McIntyre, Samantha Nolan, Maggie Nolter, Marcus Pitcavage, Brett Przekop, Nicole Pyle, Jazon Rusk, Jeremy Schmoyer, Cody Shustack, Andrew Sickora, Kirsten Sinopoli, Kimberly Turlis, Megan Van Doren, Justin Vu, Dante Weikel, Tiffany Yuskoski and Kristin Zimmerman.
Latin Club - Rebeka Buczeskie, Kyle Correa, Jocelyn Darrup, Kelly Flynn, Mikael Hause, Meyrick Lamb, Kevin Mekosh, Stephanie Nicola, Alison Plisiewicz, Michael Saukaitis, Dane York, Samantha Yuschock and Alec Zsido.
Peer Mediators - Alyssa Buggy, Dylan Matukaitis, Amanda McIntyre, Jeremy Schmoyer and Samantha Yushock.
Future Teachers of America - Ranotta Ahrensfield, president; Jazon Rusk, vice-president; Gabrielle Roski, secretary; Rebeka Buczeskie, treasurer.
Science Club - Amanda Amarose, Lucas Amarose, Alyssa Buggy, Gabrielle Engelke, Kelly Flynn, Maura Frasch, Nicole Fiamoncini, Taylor Getty, Dylan Matukaitis, Gabriel Matukaitis, Jonathan Mazurkevich, Amanda McIntyre, Samantha Nolan, Maggie Nolter, Marcus Pitcavage, Nicole Pyle, Jeremy Schmoyer, Kayla Shamus, Kirsten Sinopoli, Jakob Taylor, Megan Van Doren, Samantha Yuschock and Tiffany Yuskoski.
SADD Officers - Amanda Ambrose, Amanda McIntyre and Gabrielle Rosko.
Yearbook Photography - Alyssa Buggy and Kirsten Sinopoli.
Studio - Alyssa Buggy, Aaron McFee, Kirsten Sinopoli and Joshua Tomedi.
Stage Crew - Alyssa Buggy, Aaron McFee, Marcus Pitcavage, Kirsten Sinopoli and Joshua Tomedi.
2012 class officers:
President - Dylan Matukaitis, three years; Meyrick Lamb, one year.
Vice president - Meyrick Lamb, two years; Kelly Flynn and Justin Mackenzie, one year each.
Secretary - Alyssa Buggy, two years; Samantha Yuschock and Victoria Chapman, one year each.
Treasurer - Maura Frasch, two years; Jazon Rusk and Kimberly Andruscavage, one year each.
Honor students - Kimberly Andruscavage, 46th-ranked; Andrew Sickora, 45th-ranked; Brett Przekop, 44th-ranked; Joseph Szido, 43rd-ranked; Tyler Hodge, 42nd-ranked; Tyler Gasperetti, 41st-ranked; Stephanie Nicola, 40th-ranked; Jordan Bettleyon, 39th-ranked; Aaron Mcfee, 38th-ranked; Jocelyn Darrup, 37th-ranked; Kayla Shamus, 36th-ranked; Ranotta Ahrensfield, 35th-ranked; Danelle Avellino 34th-ranked; Samantha Nolan, 33rd-ranked; Jazon Rusk, 32nd-ranked; Mikael Hause, 31st-ranked; Angelina Duda, 30th-ranked; Angelica George, 29th-ranked; Cortney Koschoff, 28th-ranked; Michael Saukaitis, 27th-ranked; Victoria Chapman, 26th-ranked; Rebeka Buczeskie, 25th-ranked; Kristen Zimmerman, 24th-ranked; Tiffany Yuskoski, 23rd-ranked; Samantha Yuschock, 22nd-ranked; Bryan McFadden, 21st-ranked; Cody Haupt, 20th-ranked; Alec Zsido, 19th-ranked; Joshua Tomedi, 18th-ranked; Nicole Pyle, 17th-ranked; Amanda Amarose, 16th-ranked; Heather Bolick, 15th-ranked; Kimberly Turlis, 14th-ranked; Megan Van Doren, 13th-ranked; Marcus Pitcavage, 12th-ranked; Amanda Kuzao, 11th-ranked; Amanda McIntyre, 10th-ranked; Dylan Matukaitis, ninth-ranked; Maura Frasch, eighth-ranked; Jonathan Mazurkevich, seventh-ranked; Nicole Fiamoncini, sixth-ranked; Jeremy Schmoyer, fifth-ranked; Cody Shustack, fourth-ranked and highest average in mathematics; Taylor Getty, third-ranked; Kirsten Sinopoli, salutorian; Alyssa Buggy, valedictorian, highest average in English, science and social studies.
Senior Superlatives - Most handsome and prettiest, Jacob Kleman and Taylor Getty; most athletic, Mikael Hause and Heather Bolick; most school spirit, Michael Saukaitis and Megan Van Doren; most likely to brighten your day, Brett Przekop and Kayla Shamus; most artistic, Dante Weikel and Kelly Flynn; most musical, Tyler Gasperetti and Samantha Yuschock; best friends, Ryan Gidaro/Tyler Hodge and Mary Johnson/Jordin Jarzinko; best smile, Cody Shustack and Victoria Chapman; most likely to be famous, Dylan Matukaitis and Alison Plisiewicz; most likely to succeed, Marcus Pitcavage and Alyssa Buggy; cutest, Ryan Gidaro and Kelsey Resendes; funniest, Alec Zsido and Jazon Rusk; most talkative, Thomas Hynoski and Gabrielle Rosko; most studious, Jeremy Schmoyer and Kirsten Sinopoli; friendliest, Bryan McFadden and Angela Stutzcavage.
KULPMONT - A recent surge in canine parvovirus in Kulpmont has several local experts blaming the tough economic times.
Due to financial difficulty, veterinarian clinics are reporting more and more pet owners forgoing vet visits and vaccinations, but the potentially fatal and highly contagious parvovirus or "parvo," the most common infectious disorder in dogs in the United States, should not be ignored, said Dr. Lloyd Reitz, of Alpine Animal Clinic, Danville, and St. Francis Animal Clinic, Coal Township.
"We've been seeing people cutting back on the veterinary services since the recession started. This (parvo) is one area where that is not a good idea. The long-term cost is more than the short-term. The vaccine is a few dollars compared to hundreds spent in the hospital," he said.
Jean Zepd, assistant at the Elysburg Animal Clinic, has seen the same trend.
"If it comes to putting food on the table or getting dogs vaccinated, families are going to put food on the table," she said.
Reitz said that since the beginning of the year, 20 pets were tested for parvo, an increase in previous years. Three of seven confirmed cases have ended in death.
Many of those cases were in Kulpmont in the last two months, he added.
Within the last month, Zepd said there have been at least 20 calls concerning the disease, with at least 15 of those calls coming from Kulpmont.
"That's a real hot area right now. It seems to be worst," she said.
91 percent mortality rate
Initial symptoms of parvo are vomiting and diarrhea that contain blood. Infected dogs become lethargic and appear to be sick, gradually becoming weaker the longer the virus is in their system.
Parvo is spread through fecal matter and cannot be killed by using most household disinfectants. It can also be easily be picked up from shoes, clothing or infected soil, Reitz said.
Reitz said the virus does a number on a dog's gastrointestinal system.
"It's like taking a lawn mower to the intestine tract," he said.
If an animal exhibits parvo symptoms, Reitz recommends owners take the dog to a veternarian immediately. Without treatment, the mortality rate is 91 percent. With treatment, the dog has an 80 percent of suviving.
Reitz said parvo affects dogs quickly, and there's little time to delay.
"They become dehydrated rapidly. The bacteria spreads through the entire body and they die very quickly," he said.
Veterinaries can re-hydrate the animal and provide medicine to keep the bacteria from entering the bloodstream.
Prevention is best
The best practice, however, is prevention, Reitz said.
Puppies should be given a series of four vaccines up to 16 weeks of age. Adult dogs that have not had shots should be given two vaccines and an annual booster. Dogs that have been treated for parvo in the past should not come in contact with a new puppy until two months after the bacteria is considered gone.
To prevent spreading the virus, dogs should be kept away from houses or yards where infected animals spend time, Reitz said.
Robert Bechtel, of Kulpmont, has been a dog owner for 25 years. He keeps his two dogs - a 9-year-old Doberman Pinscher named Blue Belle and a 6-year-old Russian Wolfhound named Leanna - up to date with their vaccinations and veterinary visits, but he worries about his Doberman since older dogs are more susceptible to parvo.
"I have not had the displeasure of dealing with this particular problem. Times are tough, but corners are being cut where they shouldn't be," he said.
Bechtel, his wife, June, take their responsibility as owners seriously.
"Uninformed dog owners are putting me in this situation. When your choices are starting to affect me, that's not right," he said.
Bechtel said he has heard about six infected dogs with two deaths near his Scott Street home.
It may have started with an infected litter of puppies being sold, and spread through yards full of dog feces, he said.
Discounts available
Most of the parvo cases the Elysburg clinic has seen lately have been dogs that were never vaccinated or never finished their series of puppy shots, Zepd said.
"It's very expensive and very deadly" to not vaccinate dogs, she said.
A discount exam is offered at their Selinsgrove location, 401 Bridge St., for patients in financial trouble. Dogs receive rabies and distemper combination vaccines that include parvo protection for $34.
"A lot of people have it tough, and they have to make hard choices. We're trying to make it affordable as we can," Zepd said.
DEVON - Matthew David Swatski graduated as valedictorian of the Class of 2012 of Devon Preparatory School.
He was an advanced placement scholar with distinction and has enrolled in the Schreyer Honors College of Penn State University with advanced academic standing.
In addition to his academic achievements, Swatski has twice been to Kentucky as a member of Christian Action Program, has collected more than 1,600 books for children in Camden, N.J., founded the Devon Environmental Society, which has planted 25 trees in New Ardmore Park, Broomall, and contributed to Devon Dialogue, the school newspaper.
He played soccer for all of his seven years spent at the preparatory school, along with three years of lacrosse.
Swatski is a son of Drs. Michael and Karla (Nicholas) Swatski, of Narberth, a grandson of Joseph and Lucille Swatski, and a great-grandson of Lucy Pulaski, all of Mount Carmel.