POTTSVILLE - Derrick M. Donchak and Brandon J. Piekarsky must stay in federal prison for their hate-crime convictions stemming from the fatal beating of an illegal Mexican immigrant in July 2008 in Shenandoah, a three-judge panel decided Monday.

In a 34-page opinion, the panel ruled there was no basis to overturn the convictions of either Donchak, 22, of Shenandoah, or Piekarsky, 20, of Shenandoah Heights, for their roles in the death of Luis Eduardo Ramirez Zavala.

"We therefore affirm the final conviction, judgment and sentence," U.S. Circuit Judge Julio M. Fuentes wrote in the court's opinion, which was joined by the other panel members, U.S. Chief Circuit Judge Theodore A. McKee and U.S. Circuit Judge Kent A. Jordan.

As a result, Donchak and Piekarsky each must serve nine years in a federal correctional institution, the sentence imposed on each Feb. 23, 2011, by Senior U.S. District Judge A. Richard Caputo, the judge who presided over their trial. Donchak is serving his sentence at FCI/Otisville in New York, while Piekarsky is serving his at FCI/Beckley in West Virginia.

Federal prosecutors charged Donchak and Piekarsky with participating in the beating of Ramirez, 25, of Shenandoah, about 11:30 p.m. July 12, 2008, on West Lloyd Street near the Vine Street Park in Shenandoah.

Ramirez died of head injuries two days after the beating at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. His case attracted national and international attention due to issues of race, ethnicity and illegal immigration.

After an eight-day trial, a jury in Scranton convicted each man Oct. 14, 2010, of violating Ramirez's rights under the federal Fair Housing Act, and also convicted Donchak of obstruction of justice.

Fuentes wrote that Caputo properly instructed the jury that race needed to be one of the motivations behind the assault on Ramirez, but that it did not need to be the only one. While the 3rd Circuit had not considered that issue, Fuentes adopted the reasoning of other circuits that upheld that jury instruction.

"A conviction based on 'mixed motives' falls well within the reach of" the relevant section of the Fair Housing Act, Fuentes wrote.

Furthermore, the use of the word "because" in the act does not mean that race must be the sole motivation of a defendant charged with violating the act, since that would impermissibly limit the law's reach, Fuentes wrote.

"Something can be done 'because of' multiple reasons," he wrote. "Our holding here - which merely limits the word 'because' to what we take to be its plain, ordinary, congressionally intended meaning - has not so 'diluted' the language of that statute so as to render that evaluation meaningless."

Fuentes also wrote that the act does not apply only to citizens, since the word "citizen" is not used in the part under which Donchak and Piekarsky were charged but is in another section. Also, prosecutors did not have to prove that they knew Ramirez lived in Shenandoah, because a general attempt to intimidate Hispanics was enough under the law, he wrote.

"A reasonable juror could rationally conclude that the nature of the beating of Luis Ramirez, the extent of the violence involved in this case, and the gratuitous nature of the racial epithets flung about during the beating ... were, taken together, indicative that Donchak and Piekarsky intended to injure Ramirez with the purpose of intimidating him, or other Hispanic or Latino individuals, from residing in Shenandoah," Fuentes wrote. "We see no basis to upset that finding."

The panel also rejected the defendants' claim that their trial violated the constitutional protection against double jeopardy, ruling that the doctrine of dual sovereignty is an exception to that protection. There was no evidence that the state prosecution, which resulted in Donchak and Piekarsky being convicted May 1, 2009, in Schuylkill County Court of simple assault and alcohol-related offenses, but acquitted of more serious crimes, was not merely a sham and a cover for the federal one, according to Fuentes.

"A state prosecution does not bar a subsequent federal prosecution for the same conduct," Fuentes wrote. "The states and the federal government are separate sovereigns, with distinct interests in criminalizing and prosecuting certain conduct."

SUNBURY - The late James J. Rosini was described as a model of "personal and professional excellence" during a 45-minute memorial ceremony Monday coordinated by the Northumberland County Bar Association.

Approximately 80 people, including family members, friends, attorneys, judges, county officials and court personnel, attended the program in Courtroom No. 1 at Northumberland County Courthouse that paid tribute to Rosini's distinguished career as a judge, district attorney, lawyer and community leader.

His life was cut tragically short when he was killed in a two-vehicle crash Feb. 8 in Everglades, Fla. Rosini's wife, Patricia, who served as deputy director for 20 years for the county Area Agency on Aging, his brother, William Rosini, and William's companion, Deborah Korbich, also died in the accident.

James Rosini, 66, of Coal Township, served as assistant solicitor for the county and had a private law practice at the time of his death. He also operated a private business known as Commonwealth Guardianship Services.

The ceremony featured a resolution read by Attorney Michael Kaar and remarks by other members of the bar association, of which James Rosini was former president, and county judges.

'Tempered with compassion'

President Judge Robert B. Sacavage, who succeeded Rosini as district attorney before being elected to the bench, presented a welcoming address outlining Rosini's accomplishments. Sacavage said members of the memorial committee included Kaar, as chairman, and attorneys Tom Boop, Guy W. Schlesinger, Frank Morrison and Frank Konopka, who all served as assistant district attorneys under Rosini.

Kaar then read a resolution honoring Rosini.

He recalled Rosini as an attorney of many talents and interests who exhibited outstanding administrative and trial adversary skills.

"Jim took his position seriously," he said. "He exhibited strictness tempered with compassion without losing sight of the best interests of the court, the county citizens and the rule of law."

He said Rosini "loved to cook, and perhaps more, he loved to eat. He was very social, cordial, politically involved, and he had a great sense of humor."

Kaar also talked about Rosini's devotion to his wife, the former Patricia Dormer, whom he described as "the love of his life."

He concluded the resolution by stating, "The court has lost a colleague. The county has lost a wise counsel. The community has lost a productive citizen. The bar has lost a friend and colleague. And his family has lost a guiding and loving parent. We, of the Northumberland County Bar, are better for having known and worked with Jim, and we offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to his family."

'He was special'

Attorney Joseph DeChristopher, who opposed Rosini in many cases through the years, said his colleague was a talented lawyer with a great sense of humor.

"He taught me how to dress and project my voice," added county First Assistant District Attorney Ann Targonski. "But most importantly, Jim taught me the importance of family and community. He was special."

Boop said Rosini possessed great maturity and a quiet confidence when practicing law. "He never got rattled," Boop said. "He was a great administrator who had a very enviable record as a district attorney."

Morrison described his eight years as an assistant district attorney under Rosini as the "best years of his professional life." He said, "Jim made it all happen."

Morrison said he felt privileged that Rosini selected him as an assistant district attorney even though he was a Democrat and Rosini was a Republican. "He let us try cases while he handled the political nonsense," Morrison said.

Northumberland County Judge William H. Wiest, who was friends with the Rosinis for about 40 years, said, "The memories and bonding that occurred with Jim and Pat will last forever. Their devotion was exemplary and immeasurable and they will be sorely missed."

The judge told family members, "May your faith continue to comfort you."

Sacavage read brief remarks from county Judge Charles Saylor and Senior Judge Barry Feudale, who were unable to attend the ceremony. They each described Jim and Pat Rosini as "great people."

Sacavage said, "One cannot talk about Jim without paying homage to his wife, Pat. They were an extraordinary team. Pat was a champion to our senior citizens and was one of the nicest people I have ever met."

He concluded, "All members of the bar will recognize that a giant has lived among us. If any of our young attorneys seek to follow a path of personal and professional excellence, they need to look no further than the life of Jim Rosini."

3 children present

Rosini's three children, Attorney Paige Rosini, of Shamokin; Marianne Taylor, of Lancaster, and Attorney Matthew Rosini, of Arlington, Va., were among approximately 15 family members in attendance. They preferred not to offer remarks during the ceremony.

Jim Rosini was a 1963 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School. He graduated in 1967 from Bloomsburg State College and in 1971 from Dickinson School of Law.

He served as an assistant district attorney in Northumberland County from 1974 to 1976 under Samuel C. Ranck, who was elected judge in 1976, the same year Rosini was elected district attorney. Rosini successfully prosecuted nine murder cases during his two terms as district attorney.

He was appointed in 1986 by Gov. Dick Thornburgh to fill a vacancy on the Northumberland County bench and served as a county judge until 1988 before returning to private practice.

Rosini held various solicitor positions and was very involved in the community.

CATAWISSA RR - Three Southern Columbia Area School District employees were furloughed as a result of the 2012-13 budget, which was approved in the amount of $17,537,041 with a tax increase for property owners.

The resolution to furlough Cheyenne Coladonato, an elementary teacher, and Ranae Marshalek and Catarina Scicchitano, instructional aides, was accepted unanimously by the school board Monday night.

Last month, the board announced they were considering cutting at least 16 positions and four programs to help offset a $900,000 budget hole.

With the approved budget, there will also be no demotions for any positions.

Property taxes in Northumberland County will increase from 47.9 mills to 49.95 mills. An average property owner with an assessed property at $23,930 will pay an additional $50 a year.

In Columbia County, it will increase from 29.53 mills to 34.20 mills. An average property owner with an assessed property at $32,000 will pay an additional $150 a year.

The tax increase is expected to bring in $438,000 in revenue.

However, the budget itself with its tax increases was not unanimously approved.

Vice President Charlie Porter made a motion to instead increase the millage rates to 48.92 mills for Northumberland County and 31.67 mills for Columbia County, and use $300,000 leftover over from the capital projects fund to pay the interest of a bond payment.

Solicitor Rich Roberts said the use of the leftover money was one of three acceptable options, but the majority of the board was not in favor of amending the budget and tax increases in the prepared budget.

Director Rich Steele agreed in theory with Porter's motion, but said it would leave them scrambling next year for $600,000.

"It's a way to manipulate this year's budget only," he said.

Superintendent Charlie Reh said there is $500,000 left in the capital projects fund, but the project is not completed yet and more money could be needed.

He recommended rejecting the amendment.

Director Eric Stahley seconded Porter's motion, but only Stahley and Porter voted in favor of the proposal.

A motion to approve the budget was made and seconded by Directors Steele and Tim Vought. It passed 6-2 with Stahley and Porter voting against it.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Up to 12 Shamokin Area School District employees expected to be furloughed next school year may not lose their jobs after all, according to two school board directors.

The school board is also expected to vote on, or at least discuss, approving a contract for renovations to the elementary building, privatizing cafeteria services and hiring a head basketball coach for the girls and boys programs.

The board is also expected to vote tonight on a balanced budget of $28.8 million for 2012-13, according to several school board directors.

Ron McElwee said late Monday that a dozen employees, the far majority of whom are elementary teachers, would be reinstated at tonight's school board meeting.

Ed Griffiths, also reached late Monday, put the total at 11.

The reinstatements do not include any of the art, music or physical education teachers laid off, McElwee said.

Those programs are expected to be taught by homeroom teachers at the elementary level and are to be worked into the core curriculum at the middle school level.

While McElwee did not wish to provide names of those no longer facing furlough because details of the decision have not been finalized, he said the entirety of the nine member board is thrilled with the impending return of the furloughed employees.

The school board voted in April to lay off 21 employees, 19 of whom were teachers, while the district worked to erase a deficit that had once topped $5.6 million.

News of the once massive budget deficit spread last spring, even before the 2011-12 budget was adopted. It loomed as five new directors were elected to the board and began their terms in office in January - less than six months ahead of a June 30 deadline to adopt a budget for next school year.

Since then, directors worked this year to finalize the elimination of spending on equipment and materials, enter a controversial employment contract with Northwestern Academy, seek donations from alumni and slash its athletic budget by 35 percent.

They also offered early retirement incentives to district employees, and it appears retirements and resignations played a large part in potentially preserving some jobs.

McElwee and Director Brian Persing each said Monday the district is expected to use more than $1 million from its reserve funding to make up the final deficit number.

Directors won't have long to relax. Next year's budget deficit is predicted at just under $3 million.

Food service debate

A vote on the privatization of the school cafeteria could affect exactly how the deficit is zeroed out, and also the future employment of its cafeteria employees.

A district consultant, The Nutrition Group, has submitted a proposal at the board's request to take over the food service program in its entirety.

According to school board directors, the consultant claimed it can save more than $175,000 next school year, assuming the staff is provided by The Nutrition Group.

Approximately $32,000 could be saved if district retains its own staff.

There are 27 employees in the cafeteria, according to district salary information. However, its expected that several resignations will be accepted at tonight's meeting.

Director Charlie Shuey and McElwee are opposed to the plan. Both say the savings come at the expense of the employees, adding the company would likely lay them off.

Griffiths favors a move toward privatization. He said the district has little choice, citing the savings and saying he believes the company will keep the employees.

If the board does not approve privatization, Griffiths said the district would likely have to lay off a Pennsylvania System of School Assessment mathematics teacher.

Shuey and McElwee, in separate interviews, were firm about district cafeteria workers being in danger of furloughs.

Each said The Nutrition Group's pair of proposals are identical - except labor costs. That, they said, is proof cuts to staff would be imminent.

Other business

The front-runner for the boys basketball job is Chris Zimmerman, long considered the heir apparent for the job.

Joe Klebon, longtime head coach and guidance counselor, announced last week he'd resign, expected to be approved tonight.

Persing said Monday the position was advertised in-house and that Zimmerman was the lone applicant.

Bill Callahan, who resigned as girls coach earlier this year, is expected to be asked back, several directors said Monday.

The proposed elementary renovations include a new roof, concrete work in the cafeteria and on exterior walls and new chillers, directors said. That could come at a cost of $4 million. Bids for the work were opened Wednesday.

SHAMOKIN - The following hearings took place Tuesday before Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III. Defendants who waived their cases or were held for court were ordered to appear for plea court Aug. 13 at Northumberland County Courthouse, Sunbury, at which time they can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Charges of simple assault, harassment, criminal trespass and disorderly conduct filed by Shamokin Patrolman Raymond Siko II against Thomas Smith, 33, of 249 S. Franklin St., Shamokin, were withdrawn when the alleged victim, Anna Alvord, failed to testify against him.

Smith was charged with assaulting Alvord at 59 Raspberry Hill on April 3, 2010.

n Stacy L. Kays, 32, of 1224 Pulaski Ave., Coal Township, pleaded guilty to possession of drug paraphernalia and was ordered to pay a $300 fine plus costs and placed on supervised probation for six months. A charge of possession of a small amount of marijuana was withdrawn.

Kays was charged by Coal Township Patrolman Matthew Hashuga in connection with a May 7 incident at her residence.

n Richard P. Ferri, 58, of 137 N. Oak St., Mount Carmel, was held for court on charges of endangering the welfare of a child and corruption of minors relating to a Jan. 14 underage drinking party at his residence.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Patrolman David Donkochik.

Ferri's preliminary hearing was held before Gembic because Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones of Mount Carmel recused himself due to a conflict of interest.

n Norman J. Bohner Jr., 33, of 406 W. Chestnut St., Shamokin, pleaded guilty to harassment and was ordered to pay a $100 fine plus costs. An additional charge of simple assault was withdrawn.

Bohner was charged by Shamokin Cpl. Darwin Tobias in connection with an April 29 disturbance in which he allegedly assaulted his live-in girlfriend, Angela Hopper, and smashed various items in their residence.

SUNBURY - Two drivers were injured in a three-vehicle crash Tuesday morning on Route 147 on the Edison Bridge, Upper Augusta Township.

State police at Stonington report that a 1993 Chevrolet Astro van, driven by Jay S. Kessler Jr., 21, of Sunbury, was traveling south on Route 147 on the Edison Bridge when the van crossed into the northbound lane.

The van then crashed into a 2003 Subaru Forester, driven by Mary L. Bailets, 53, of Sunbury, head on, and then was struck from behind by a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan, driven by Amy J. Leeser, 40, of Sunbury.

Kessler suffered moderate injuries in the crash. Bailets was also injured in the crash, but police did not reveal how severe her injuries were.

State police say that Kessler will be cited for the crash.

Soldier identified in photo

The unnamed Army Air Force captain seated next to General James Gavin in Monday's Community Milestones photo has been identified as Capt. Michael Pivarnik, formerly of Mount Carmel and currently living in Centerville, Ohio. He retired from the Army Air Force with the rank of colonel.

Parade route announced

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Sesquicentennial Celebration parade, held in conjunction with the Six-County Firemen's Convention, will start at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 30.

Mount Carmel Area High School is the staging area for the parade. The parade route is: Sixth Street to Oak Street, north on Oak to Second Street, east on Second to Market, south on Market to Fifth Street, than east on Fifth to Chestnut.

Party in the Park on June 30

MOUNT CARMEL - The Party in the Park, held to celebrate the Mount Carmel Sesquicentennial, will be held from noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 30, in Mount Carmel Town Park.

The event includes food, games and music, with fireworks at dusk.

For more information on the Party in the Park, contact Melissa at 610-842-7348, or go to MC150th@gmail.com.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - After the urging of a Pennsylvania senator, Senate and House leaders negotiating a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reauthorization bill have agreed to include language to place a national ban on synthetic drugs like bath salts and synthetic marijuana.

The agreement would control 26 synthetic substances under the Controlled Substances Act and also double the length of time the DEA can temporarily ban substances to allow a permanent ban to take effect.

"For Pennsylvania communities that have faced violence and crimes as a result of synthetic drugs like bath salts, this agreement is very welcome news," said U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA). "I pushed legislation to get these substances off our streets and prevent the horrible acts of violence synthetic drugs induce, so it is a relief that a ban appears to finally be close to becoming law."

Casey has been a leader in the effort to ban the harmful substances in bath salts and other synthetic drugs by pushing comprehensive legislation to deal with the problem. He also repeatedly urged the DEA to use its authority to get the drugs out of Pennsylvania communities.

Casey helped to secure a ban as part of the Senate FDA reauthorization bill, but the House-passed version of the FDA bill did not include the anti-drug provision. In a letter to Senate and House negotiators earlier this month, Casey urged them to include the synthetic drugs provisions in the final bill.

STONINGTON - Three people were injured when their vehicles each rolled multiple times during a traffic accident in a steady rain at approximately 5:43 a.m. Tuesday on Route 61 near Holly Road in Shamokin Township.

Robert L. Faust Jr., 43, of Shamokin, was trapped for about 30 minutes after his 2004 Ford F-150 truck hit a 2004 Mazda SUV, driven by Brandon M. Fox, 29, of Shamokin, and then went out of control, hit a large tree, traveled through heavy brush and came to rest on its side. Elysburg and Stonington firefighters extricated Faust.

A second occupant in the pickup, Randy D. Long, 29, of Coal Township, was also transported for treatment.

Police said Faust, Long and Fox all suffered moderate injuries. According to a Geisinger spokesperson Tuesday evening, Faust is listed in serious condition, Long in fair condition and Fox was treated and released.

State police at Stonington report Faust was passing vehicles on Route 61 near Holly Road; when he attempted to re-enter the northbound lane, his vehicle struck Fox's Mazda in the rear, causing the SUV to roll over multiple times.

The truck continued north, struck a mail box and then also rolled multiple times before coming to rest.

Police said speed was a factor in the crash, and that Faust will be cited for driving at an unsafe speed.

Assisting police were members of the Stonington Fire Department, Elysburg Fire and Ambulance and AREA Services.

SHAMOKIN - Services provided by local health care agencies were the focus of the Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce Mini Health Care Breakfast held Tuesday.

Hosted by Rob's Good Time Grill, a new chamber member, and sponsored by Mountain View: A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, the breakfast featured speakers from four local businesses and organizations: LIFE Geisinger, Kulpmont; VNA Health System, Shamokin; Family Medical Home Health Agency, Mount Carmel, and Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging.

Marc A. Varano, outreach coordinator for LIFE Geisinger, said the program, in operation since January 2008, has proven a popular alternative to nursing home placement for local seniors who need daily care. Participants come to the LIFE center for a full day of activities, but return home in the evening.

A person must be deemed eligible for the program by the Area Agency on Aging, and services are covered financially for those who are eligible for Medicare or Medical Assistance.

Chamber director Sandy Winhofer noted how LIFE Geisinger, in combination with the Northumberland County Housing Authority and Luzerne County Community College, not only provide services for the elderly, but they saved an old building - a former elementary school - by establishing their businesses in the Spruce Street facility.

Caring center

Cheryl Donlan, an LPN with VNA, focused on the company's caring center at 2 E. Arch St. Similar to LIFE Geisinger, the center provides a place for adults with functional impairment, thereby providing respite for caregivers and a community-based alternative to long-term care. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Participants do not have to be nursing home eligible, Donlan said.

Games and public outings are part of the family atmosphere promoted at VNA Caring Center, she said.

Family Medical Chief Operating Officer Kathleen Hoffman told about the company's 20-plus years of providing home health care, private-duty nursing and, as of last year, hospice services. She also noted that Family Medical uses "tele-health" services that help provide care on days when nurses don't visit an in-home patient.

Hoffman said Family Medical is excited about introducing a new nursing home alternative that will be just the second of its kind in the country. "Our Family Homes" involves three seniors sharing a private, single-family home in an average neighborhood, while Family Home Medical provides home care services around-the-clock.

Hoffman said the company has its first house ready and will soon implement the program.

AAA

Tuesday's final speaker was Karen Leonovich from Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging, and she said it was appropriate that she went last because the agency represents a "clearinghouse" of information for those seeking health care services. Leonovich said she is honored to hold the deputy administrator position with the agency, having been hired in the wake of the death of Patricia Rosini earlier this year. Leonovich previously worked for Columbia-Montour Area Agency on Aging.

Beyond providing referrals, operating Meals on Wheels and setting up in-home services and care management programs, a key facet of the Area Agency on Aging's work is protective services. The agency steps in where needed to remove elderly from situations of abuse or neglect, or cases where they are being exploited financially.

Leonovich also noted the LINK program, a collaborative effort among social services providers. The goal of the initiative is to cross-train workers from various agencies so they can better assist clients and not allow anyone to fall through the cracks.

Winhofer noted how, beyond the services they provide, health care agencies employ large numbers of people. Those participating in the breakfast reported employment numbers ranging from 40 to 110.

This was the chamber's lone breakfast of the year; other membership meetings are lunches.

The chamber will not have a July luncheon, but it's popular duck drop and railroad motor cars visit is set for Sunday, July 29. For tickets, call the chamber office 648-4675.

STRONG - A local family, appreciative of the help it has received in dealing with a health crisis, is looking to return the favor and help others.

The inaugural Bobby's Open golf tournament, which will honor Robert E. Else III and benefit the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF), will be held Friday, June 29, at Frosty Valley Country Club, Bloom Road, Danville.

Presented by King Coal Tours and its owners, the Else family, the event will raise money for research to find a cure for multiple myeloma.

Robert Else, 62, was diagnosed with the disease in November 2002.

"He was having a stress test, a routine examination, when they found some elevated levels in his blood," said tournament organizer and son Jonathan Else. "They did more tests and found the multiple myeloma."

According to the MMRF, multiple myeloma is a blood cancer in which plasma cells in the bone marrow grow out of control. These cells can damage the bone, causing pain. Myeloma may also cause infection, anemia, problems with bruising and bleeding, and damage to organs, particularly the kidneys.

Still fighting

The cancer is incurable, but treatable, and has a five-year survival rate of 38 percent, one of the lowest of all cancers. The Else family, however, credits the foundation and its research for helping Robert survive.

"As you know," the family writes in a letter announcing the tournament, "Bob has already beaten the normal rate thanks to the treatment already on the market. The MMRF has helped accelerate the development of four new treatments that are extending the lives of multiple myeloma patients and are being explored as treatments for more than 30 other cancers."

Ten years after the diagnosis, and following radiation therapy, two stem cell transplants and years of chemotherapy, Else is still "fighting the good fight" and continues to work and be productive each day.

A way to help

The MMRF was founded in 1998 by twin sisters Kathy Giusti and Karen Andrews after Giusti, a former pharmaceutical executive and Harvard Business School graduate, was diagnosed with the disease. The foundation's mission is to relentlessly pursue innovative means that accelerate the development of next-generation multiple myeloma treatments to extend the lives of patients and lead to a cure.

Grateful for the help the MMRF gave to the family in educating and informing them of all that has been done and is being accomplished, the Else family starting making plans for Bobby's Open.

"When we informed the foundation that we will be holding this golf tournament, they were absolutely thrilled," Else said. "Everyone who has worked with my father through King Coal has been very supportive as well. We wanted to help and try to find a cure. If you just sit around, stuff doesn't get done."

Major prizes

The tournament will feature a four-person scramble format with registration and lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m. with a 1 p.m. start. Through Else's friends in the travel community, major prizes have been donated for things such as the longest drive, hole-in-one and the closest-to-the-pin contests. They include a weekend stay at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, courtesy of Art Henry Tours, of Nashville, and a trip to Cape Cod from Northeast Tours, according to Jonathan Else.

"We will also be having silent auctions, drawings and door prizes with 100 percent of the money raised going toward the foundation," he said.

Else stressed this effort is to honor his father and the fight he has undertaken.

"We wanted to do something with him here so that he can enjoy it and see the support he has from all his friends," he said.

Cost of the tournament is $125 per person or $500 for a foursome, which includes greens fee with cart, range balls, lunch, a post-tournament dinner and door prizes. Those interested in participating can call Else at 814-6501.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Shamokin Area School Board adopted a balanced budget Tuesday night and announced the return of a dozen employees who had been marked for furlough.

It also voted to eliminate the district's K-4 program.

The 2012-13 budget totals $28,812,428.

Gone is the $5.6 million deficit that had loomed large over board meetings since last year.

That deficit was erased with staff furloughs and coupled by retirements and resignations along with cuts in spending on equipment and materials and the approval of a controversial employment contract with Northwestern Academy, among other measures.

Shamokin Area had reduced the deficit to an estimated $1.4 million last week. That gap was made up with unexpected increases in grant funding coupled with the use of about $1 million in reserve funding.

The return of 12 furloughed staff members means of the 21 tabbed to be laid off next school year, nine continue to face the prospect of finding new work.

Those brought back, the majority of whom are teachers, are Inga Hinterliter, Cara Burns, Nancy Shuey, Sarah Krieger, Joelle Reed, Nina Varney, Shawn McGugan, Lindsay Venn, Jessica Wolfgang, Jennifer Neary, Kristy Hoffman and Lindsey Davies.

James Zack, superintendent, said that list could change if a staff member with more seniority and who also is facing furlough would decide to "bump" those with less seniority, or with the result of legal issues, alluding to a lawsuit between the district and Ruby Michetti.

Michetti was demoted from curriculum coordinator to middle school English teacher but is fighting in court to keep an administrative position.

The new budget brings a slight tax increase of 0.6695 mills. The proposed new rate would be 26.4195 mills and create $63,920 in new revenue.

Real estate taxes are levied against a property's fully assessed value. Each mill equals $1 for every $1,000 of the assessment.

A property within Shamokin Area assessed at $20,000 would be taxed $528.39 under the new rate.

K-4 cut

The move to eliminate K-4 marks two straight school years in which the program was cut.

However, prior to the start of the 2011-12 school year, the board shifted that program's budget from the district's general fund into a budget for Title 1 federal funding.

The same move was made in April for the district's kindergarten program.

It remains to be seen if the board will work to save K-4 again ahead of next school year.

'Step down'

The meeting may have settled the matter of the 2012-13 spending plan, but not without the contention, accusations and labored decisions that often accompanied the run-up to Tuesday's final decision.

Joe Dudeck, a social studies teacher employed 21 years at Shamokin Area, called for the resignations of two board members.

"I believe if they really want to do good for our district, Mr. (Brian) Persing and Mr. (Bob) Getchey should step down," he said during the public comment period at the meeting's start. His comment was met with some applause from audience members.

About 70 people attended the meeting, held in the high school auditorium. It was a lighter crowd than what had been drawn to the meetings since March.

Dudeck railed against Persing and Getchey, accusing each of having a vendetta and preventing him from getting the position of head coach of the varsity and junior high girls basketball programs.

He demanded an answer publicly as to why he didn't get the coaching job but was not given one.

William Callahan was tabbed to return as head girls coach despite having submitted a resignation in March. His resignation was rescinded Tuesday and the board installed him as head coach.

Chris Zimmerman was subsequently hired to succeed Joe Klebon as head coach of the boys basketball program. (For more on the moves, see Page 11.)

Dudeck also claimed Persing colluded to furlough more staff members than necessary in order to force the teachers union to accept a pay freeze.

"It's a tactic that messes with people's lives. ... It hurts," Dudeck said, adding that the threats, lies and insults spread about have done nothing but to damage Shamokin Area.

Of Dudeck's qualms with the matter of the coaching positions, board President Tracey Witmer grew frustrated.

"I really wish there was this much fighting and bickering over education. I'm sick of athletics. ... Why not fight for education? Why not fight for our kids?" She said.

A rebuttal

Persing stayed out of the fray during the meeting. Getchey relented too, at least at first.

While he remained silent as Dudeck spoke, on one occasion hanging his head in his hand in frustration with the accusations, Getchey spoke his mind at meeting's end when members provide board reports.

He passionately denied having ever spoken to Callahan or Zimmerman to take their positions as coaches, saying that he also never sought to block Dudeck from getting the job.

Further, Getchey denied Dudeck's assertion that he sought to be a volunteer coach on his staff.

"I put in for that job because two Mount Carmel guys put in for it. I wasn't gonna let a Mount Carmel guy take over the program," Getchey said.

Also, he said he sought the position because he coached many of the players in youth leagues and he wished to continue on in high school.

Cafeteria services

Board members struggled to decide whether or not to privatize district cafeteria services.

An initial vote on the matter failed and was followed by an executive session. When the board adjourned, a split vote was cast approving a plan that several in the crowd audibly panned as the wrong decision.

The board voted 5-4 to allow a district consultant, The Nutrition Group, to take over management of its food services.

The one-year plan approved by the board is for the private company to retain any current employee seeking to stay put at their current wages, according board President Tracey Witmer. They'd also be eligible to file for unemployment in the summer months, which they currently can not do as district employees.

In turn, Nutrition Group will provide $175,000 savings to the district.

That plan trumped a move favored by the minority to keep the cafeteria employees on the district payroll. The savings estimated by the company, in turn, would drop to $32,290 but, according to McElwee and Shuey, provide job security to the workers.

On an initial vote, Directors LaRue Beck, Ed Griffiths, Jeff Kashner and Persing voted in favor of the former plan. Directors Ron McElwee, Charlie Shuey, Bernie Sosnoskie and Witmer were in favor of the latter. Getchey abstained, saying he didn't know enough on the matter to cast a vote.

That meant that the vote on both plans failed.

A 10-minute private powwow was held among the board members. When they returned, Getchey changed his mind and opted to vote in favor of the plan that would save the district an estimated $175,000, at least according to Nutrition Group, and fully privatize the cafeteria. That meant the vote was swung 5-4.

"I am going to give you my word," Getchey told the crowd prior to the passing of the second vote, "If it doesn't work out, I won't vote for it again."

That comment was met with much derision from the audience, many of whom hemmed and hawed about the board member's promise. Shuey, too, mocked Getchey's statement, nodding his head skyward and saying "blah, blah, blah," as Getchey defended his vote, saying he'd "watch" over the company.

McElwee responded by saying that the move eventually passed would neuter the board powerless, preventing the district from having any say regarding what Nutrition Group would do with respect to the employees since they would no longer be employed by the district.

Shuey and McElwee both believe the move to fully privatize cafeteria services would put the now former district employees in jeopardy of losing their jobs, despite the company's promise to keep any on who seeks employment.

The plan passed by the board was one used when calculating the outcome of the final budget. When it wasn't passed initially, that threw the budget in flux. It also presented the possibility of laying off a mathematics teacher who prepares students for state assessment testing. The layoff was avoided with the second vote.

The contract with Nutrition Group expires June 30, at which time the board will be tasked to readdress the matter.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory in effect until 8 p.m. Thursday.

Temperature will be in the lower to middle 90's Wednesday afternoon, and the combination of heat and humidity will create heat indices near or just above 100 degrees, especially in the city and valley areas. 

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.  Heat stroke is an emergency- call 911.

Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles, expecially in hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures. Provide pets with adequate water and shelter.  Check up on elderly relatives and neighbors.

IRISH VALLEY - This Saturday, prepare for mud.

That was the warning from Brandon Putt, founder of this weekend's Filthy Mud Run at Irish Valley Motocross Park.

The race series will make its first stop at the park along Irish Valley Road. Approximately 1100 adults and children have signed up to get down and dirty in either a 5K mud run or two separate "Little 'n' Filthy" runs for children four- to 13 years-old.

There will be plenty of obstacles, Putt said, including tunnels to crawl through, nets to maneuver on and, of course, mud pits to travel through.

"It's a great atmosphere," Putt said. "There are people of all different types of backgrounds coming together to have some thrills."

Putt, originally from Hamburg, created the race after participating in similar events with his wife. He enjoyed them so much that he decided to create his own.

"Once I saw how popular they are, I wanted to bring more runs to the area," Putt said. "(And) just participating gave me great interest."

A donation from each event will go to Cradles to Crayons, an organization that provides children basic necessities, such as clothing, school supplies and toys.

The youth races are sold out, however, registration for the 5K race will be held before the race from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Individuals and teams of mud runners will leave the start line at a previously arranged time. The number of waves and time delay increments will vary. 

For people who like to stay a little cleaner, spectators can watch the mud fly from the sidelines. A $5 gate fee will be charged to everyone entering the grounds, including spectators, who will have clean clothes at the end of the day, and race participants, who will need a lot of laundry detergent.

For more information, visit www.filthyfunevents.com or their Facebook page.

LANSDALE - Leah Carey, a daughter of Timothy and Kathleen Carey, of Lansdale, graduated June 13 from North Penn High School.

Carey will attend Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, Ga., where she will major in architecture.

Her parents are formerly of Shamokin.

She is a granddaughter of the late Edward and Victoria Kishela, who were lifelong residents of Shamokin, and the late Floyd and Selma Carey, formerly of Paxinos.

BRADFORD - Jasmine Rebecca Iddings, a broadcast communications major from Locust Gap, graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford on April 29.

Iddings minored in theatre and graduated Cum Laude.

She was the new member orientation leader and rush chair of Zeta Alpha Chi, vice- president of programming for the Student Activities Council, a TRiO Student Support Services mentor, a student ambassador and an orientation leader.

She received many awards while enrolled, including Senator of the Year, Programmer of the Year, the Chapter Loyalty Award for Zeta Alpha Chi, the Outstanding Television Producer Award in Broadcast Communications, and was named to this year's Who's Who Among American College's and Universities.

She is currently working at 100.1 FM The Hero.

EAST STROUDSBURG - Matthew Gilger earned dean's list honors at East Stroudsburg University during the spring semester.

Gilger, who will be entering his junior year in the fall, attained a 3.57 grade point average. He is majoring in physical education and health.

The 2010 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School is a son of Mark and Paula Gilger, of Shamokin. He is a grandson of Betty Gilger, Shamokin, and Rose Polifka, Wilburton No. 1, and the late William J. Gilger Sr. and Paul Polifka.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Rainbow Club met at Our Lady of Hope Hall June 10 with 30 members attending.

President Ruth Romanoski opened the meeting with the senior adult ministry prayer, the Pledge of Allegience and the Over 50 song. A new member, Marcy Rudinger, was introduced.

Romanoski said sympathy cards were sent to the families of three departed members - Dolores Van Shura, Irene Forbes and Eileen Janaskie.

The secretary's report was given by Dolly Yocum. Romanoski approved it and the report was filed.

Florence Verano gave the club's financial report and the travel club report. The next trip will be to Hunterdon Hills July 12. The bus will leave the church parking lot at 8 a.m.

The mass and dinner for the senior adult ministry will be held at the Keeler Center, Harrisburg Oct. 14. A bus will be provided.

The attendance award was won by Linda Yanick. 50/50 winners were Florence Verano, Irene Curran and Jenny McCabe. Sellers were Ann Koshinskie and Margaret Defacis

A motion to adjourn was made by Dolly Yocum and Catherine Reed. Romanoski closed the meeting with the Our Father prayer. A buffet was then served with tables of food enjoyed by all. Bingo was played with sellers Pat Pellman and Ann Shirmer. The caller was Dolly Yocum.

The next meeting will be Sunday, July 8 at 3 p.m. July birthday celebrants are asked to bring refreshments.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Graduating seniors were recognized for their achievements at an annual recognition ceremony held May 21 at Northumberland County Career and Technology Center (NCCTC).

The following awards were presented:

Coal Township Alumni Association Scholarship of $2,500/per year, $10,000 maximum, scholarship award given to a deserving student - Charles Francis Black.

The Dean Carl Memorial Scholarship of $1,000 in memory of Dean Carl, presented to a deserving senior student furthering his or her education - Ashley Lynn Strouse.

Jeremy James Dinklocker Scholarship of $500 in memory of Jeremy James Dinklocker, presented to a deserving senior student furthering his or her education - Tyler Stephen Pincoskie.

James J. and Patricia C. Rosini Culinary Arts Scholarship of $2,500 given to a deserving student in culinary arts - Alina M. Hensel.

Shamokin Area Rotary Club Student of the Year award of $200 presented to a deserving Rotary student of the year - Charles Francis Black.

Triangle Tech's Carpentry and Construction Technology Scholarship of $7,643, given to a deserving student who will be attending Triangle Tech in the fall - Cody M. Stine.

Family Home Medical Award of $100 to an outstanding health occupation careers student - Amber Leah Ebbecke.

Mark A. Serafin Memorial Award given to a deserving student in culinary arts - Alina M. Hensel.

Mark A. Serafin Memorial Award given to a deserving student in automotive technology - Samuel R. McVicker.

Sylvia Buriak Memorial Award of $100 in memory of Sylvia Buriak, presented to a deserving student - Alina M. Hensel.

Elmer "Tim" Shuey Memorial Award of $250 presented to an outstanding senior carpentry student - Zachary Tyler Jacobs.

Jim Reiner Memorial Award of $250 to a deserving Mount Carmel Area carpentry student - Greg M. Barkus.

Northumberland County Career and Technology Center Student Achievement Award of $200 each to deserving students continuing their education - Gabrielle Sprenkle. Kristi May Morris. Brittany M. Nye, Alexis Mae Straub and Peyton Elizabeth Autry.

Principal's Awards of $50 to deserving students Sara Elizabeth Reed and Shelby Lynn McCloskey.

Lions Club Award of $100 to a deserving senior who is civic-minded - Brittany Lynn Vogel.

Life Skills Award of $100to an outstanding welding student - Andrew Lee Hepler.

Life Skills Award of $100 to an outstanding carpentry student - Zachary Tyler Jacobs.

A & F Automotive Award of $100 to a deserving Mount Carmel student in automotive technology - Christopher C. Molnar.

Nicole Bramhall Memorial Award of $100 to a deserving student - Kaleb Michael Bowers.

IBEW Local 607 Award of $250 to a deserving student in electrical construction - Timothy Joseph Wasko.

T.J. Schrader Memorial Scholarship of $250, presented to a deserving senior student furthering his or her education - Megan E. Ramp.

PSEA Local No. 603 Award of $50 to a deserving senior - Brooke Alyssa Fetterhoff.

The Mount Carmel Area and Shamokin Area Pre-K Counts programs, funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, are registering students for the 2012-13 school year.

In order to service more children, the programs are offering two half-day sessions at both districts. Children must be 4 years old by Sept. 1 and meet federal guidelines of the Pre-K Counts grant to be eligible

Pre-K Counts features highly-qualified teachers and staff who provide opportunities for hands-on and inquiry-based lessons covering all areas of learning. Students partake in small- and large-group activities, as well as cooperative play and individualized instruction. Social and individual needs are addressed, as well as academic readiness.

Both programs use state-approved curriculums and Works Sampling assessment. They meet strict Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale guidelines and follow Pennsylvania's Early Childhood Standards. Pre-K Counts students participate in community field trips, PTA and other parent involvement, county coalitions, and activities in their individual school districts.

In the past, both Mount Carmel and Shamokin Areas' programs have scored high in audits and inspections.

Families can pick up a registration packet at either district's elementary office or call the offices at 648-5721 or 339-1500. The program is limited to 19 students in each of the four classes. Parents are urged to register as soon as possible.