FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP - A 13-year-old Southern Columbia Area student was injured when his dirt bike struck the front of a vehicle Wednesday around noon.

The boy, who police did not identify because of his age, was taken to Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, with injuries he sustained when the dirt bike he was operating struck the front of a 2008 Kia Spectra on a dirt field road, off of South Campbell Road.

The driver of the vehicle, Pam Harvey, of Catawissa, was uninjured.

The male was riding with a 12-year-old boy on private property when the accident occurred.

Locust Township Police Chief Allen Breach said the boy, who was wearing a helmet, suffered non-life threatening injuries.

Mount Carmel Facts

Mount Carmel is in its 150th year of incorporation as a borough.

Founding: In 1800, Lawrence Lamberson built a log house near a spring at the present day borough garage at Oak and Seventh streets, becoming the first permanent settler. Lamberson turned his log house into a tavern in 1811. The first official congregation in town was Grace Lutheran Church in 1855. The First Methodist Church was the first church built in 1860. Mount Carmel was incorporated as a borough in 1862.

Area: .7 square miles

Population: 5,893 in 2010.

Borough government: Borough council: President Tony Matulewicz, Vice President Leroy "Chico" Moser, Robert Shirmer, Robert Barrett, Joseph Lapotsky, Clem Plisiewicz Jr. and Gary Hixson Jr.; Mayor J. Kevin Jones; borough manager Edward Cuff III; borough treasurer Megan Janolek; code enforcement officer Robin Williams, and Cpl. Chris Buhay, who is handling all administrative functions of the police department after the recent retirement of Brian Shurock.

PHILADELPHIA - A federal court of appeals has affirmed a lower court's decision to deny an injunction that would stop eminent domain proceedings against most of the residents of Centralia who do not want to leave their homes despite the mine fire burning underneath.

In short, the feds agree Centralia residents must move.

In an opinion handed down Tuesday, the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals denied the petition of Bonnie Hynoski, Stephen Hynoski, Christine Hynoski, Tom Hynoski, Harold Mervine, John Koschoff, Helen Hynoski and Walter Hynoski for a preliminary injunction and reconsideration and affirmed the U.S. District Court decision handed down March 11, 2011.

In 1996, the U.S. Supreme Court denied a petition by the same group, who had their properties condemned due to eminent domain proceedings. In their complaints, the residents say the Columbia County Redevelopment Authority (CCRA), the state, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and the Blaschak Coal Corporation have conspired to remove them from the properties so coal, and associated

revenues, underneath the town can be exploited. They also say the underground fire was never a threat.

The group says all the eminent domain proceedings should be stopped because CCRA and the state withdrew their petitions to take one property, the Netchel property.

On March 11, 2011, U.S. District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner denied their injunction, ruling the residents had not demonstrated a likelihood of success of their case on its merits or any risk of irreparable harm. The state has immunity against such suits and the statutes of limitations had expired.

The filing with the U.S. Court of Appeals by the residents contested those rulings and claimed the U.S. District Court abused its discretion by not having a hearing before ruling on the injunction.

In the opinion written by Judge Michael A. Chagares, the three-judge board agreed with the district court's decision that the residents' claims are time-barred because their complaint was not filed until almost four years after the Netchel settlement and the residents did not explain why there was a delay.

"There are no allegations in the (residents') brief, motion or amended complaint that attempts to explain the delay or describe any obstacles that prevented the appellants from discovering the Netchel settlement," the opinion reads. "Moreover, the (residents') do not explain how they eventually learned about the Netchel settlement."

Judges also affirmed the district court's decision the residents did not allege any imminent irreparable harm by losing their properties, denying the injunction.

Because the Centralia residents did not support their claims of harm in their filings, the U.S. District Court ruled they are not obliged to hold a hearing prior to denying the motion for the injunction to the eminent domain proceedings. The U.S. District Court affirmed that decision as well.

MOUNT CARMEL - The vibrant and busy downtown business district is often a concept of yesterday, but that doesn't mean Mount Carmel stores and restaurants can't be successful with the changes of modern society.

Borough Mayor J. Kevin Jones explained there have been many factors contributing to the empty storefronts and declining businesses on Oak Street, including malls, strip malls and big box stores, the desire of business owners to have a presence on the busier Route 61 and a snowballing popularity of online shopping.

"The downtown has changed. Some of that is our own people not using them. The businesses that are surviving are selling things online. They have a base here, but they're selling things online. It's a changing dynamic of downtown," Jones said.

In days gone by, the downtown featured every storefront filled with clothing, records, jewelry, food and entertainment - "It was all here," the mayor said.

But then people starting driving more and were more willing to travel extra miles for savings for which mom-and-pop shops couldn't compete, he said.

Jones mentioned Academy Sports Center and The Shop at Oak and Avenue as stores that have been successful while developing a large online presence.

"Businesses need to take a new direction; they have to be a lot of more innovative," he said.

While some see vacant buildings, others - like Ed Fegley, secretary of Mount Carmel Downtown Inc. (MCDI) - see a potential for life to be brought back to the borough.

"It's convenient to have a downtown. If you don't support the local businesses, what happens if you can't get to Walmart or your car is in the shop?" Fegley said.

Members of MCDI have taken it upon themselves to beautify both used and unused buildings and host a variety of events to attract people to the borough and its business district.

"The challenge is we're an older community. People sometimes have to look at renovations. That costs money, and you can't be sure if you'll make it," Fegley said. "Maybe you need to rewire. Maybe you need to add a second exit. That's what we do. We come in and try to make it happen."

Furthermore, MCDI has been communicating with building owners with empty storefronts and asking them to allow new businesses a trial period of three months.

"It will be like an incubator. If it doesn't work, no one is really losing anything," Fegley said.

Like all small downtowns, Mount Carmel businesses must diversify into niche markets, while customers should consider local options before traveling to a larger chain store, he said.

"Can it be bought locally? If it's a couple pennies more, think about it and buy it at a local store," Fegley said.

Despite the decline, Fegley and Jones are quick to note the businesses in the downtown still thriving. There's Hollywood Pizza, Scicchitano Ace Hardware, Matlow's Clothing, Community Pharmacy, MC Coney - among others.

Outside the immediate downtown, Jones said Mattucci's Willow Street Cafe and The Dollar General are noteworthy as well.

"There's always going to be something there (in the downtown), because of its central location," Jones said, "but you have to have the right business."

MOUNT CARMEL - A celebration of the borough's 150th anniversary will be held Saturday, and organizers are crediting another event for making the sesquicentennial festivities a possibility.

The Six-County Firemen's Association Convention, a three-day event, begins today in Mount Carmel. The borough had hosted it in 2007, and not long afterward, organizers applied to again host the convention to bolster plans for an anniversary celebration.

"I don't think we could have done it without that going on at the same time," said J. Kevin Jones, borough mayor and a member of the 150th celebration committee.

While fundraising began in earnest several years ago with a string of Chinese auctions, committee members revved up their efforts this year. Tickets were sold for a bus trip tonight to see the Philadelphia Phillies, a 5K run was held and anniversary banners to be hung above borough streets were sold, along with commemorative T-shirts.

All told, the committee raised more than $20,000 for the celebration, a significant amount of that rolling in recently.

The prospect for a celebration didn't look so good earlier this year.

"We were thinking that we'd need at least $10,000 or more, say between $10,000 and $20,000 to run the parade, and you only have $4,000 in the bank and you don't know where you're going to be getting this other amount of money," said David J. Berezovske, committee member.

"Dave and I weren't sure if we were going to be marching down Oak (Street) together," Jones said.

Berezovske said the amount of money raised, while seemingly substantial, pales to that raised in years past.

When activities for the 125th anniversary drew to a close in 1987, between $50,000 and $80,000 was raised, he said. The remaining funds were used to build the gazebo in Town Park.

These days there are fewer residents living in the borough, especially those Jones and Berezovske described as "legacy families." There's less businesses in Mount Carmel, too, and public involvement in a community celebration has waned.

"We could only do so much with so many people without burning everybody out," Berezovske said.

'Wedding Crasher' leads parade

The convention and the celebration come together Saturday when a joint parade will be held, beginning at 2 p.m. Emergency apparatus will be grouped in eight divisions, with marching bands, antique cars, Victorian High Wheelers and members of Motor Maids Inc., a women's motorcycling organization.

Ellen Albertini Dow, the 98-year-old actress from "Wedding Crashers," among many other films, and a borough native, is grand marshal.

The parade will start at Sixth and Willow streets and proceed east to Oak Street, north to Second Street, east to Market, south to Fifth and east to the soccer field complex. The judging station will be set up at Anthracite Fire Company on North Market Street.

Party in the Park, with 15 food vendors and a DJ, will run from noon to 7 p.m. in Town Park. A party for the convention will continue after the parade at the soccer fields.

Berezovske and Jones expect many people will show up at both parties.

A fireworks display will begin at dusk from the mountain behind the Little League Baseball complex.

'Company' coming

Mount Carmel Downtown Inc. volunteers and borough workers, along with Northwestern Academy cadets, continue to clean up around the borough.

Jones asks that borough residents do the same - tidy up their properties ahead of Saturday's festivities and hang American flags or bunting. If there are weeds in the sidewalk, pull them out, he said. If there is trash laying about, pick it up, the mayor urged.

"If people will just straighten everything up, because it's just like we're getting company here in town," Jones said.

Commemorative T-shirts featuring Homiak's, a legendary Diamondtown bar, Kramer's Beverages, Langis' luncheonette and the celebration are all still available. Visit www.mountcarmel150.info or contact Academy Sports for information on prices and sizing. The shirts will also be sold at Party in the Park, as will 75-plus page commemorative booklets.

There are dozens of historic photographs of Mount Carmel and its residents for public perusal in the windows of the borough's public library on Oak Street.

Events surrounding the borough's 150th anniversary will continue throughout the year. Thus far, a concert at the Town Park gazebo by Life Your Spirits is set for 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 8, and plans are being made for an event in November to commemorate the borough's incorporation.

BLOOMSBURG - The integration of Bloomsburg Hospital and its affiliates into Geisinger Health System has received final approval from the Pennsylvania Attorney General's antitrust division and the federal court.

The official transition to the new Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital and Geisinger-Bloomsburg Health Care Center will take place Sunday. Bloomsburg Physician Services will integrate into Geisinger Clinic this autumn, and Columbia Montour Home Health will integrate in a number of months.

"We are pleased to complete the regulatory review process and turn our attention to developing and growing services in Bloomsburg," said Geisinger President and CEO Dr. Glenn Steele. "Geisinger has a long history of working with Bloomsburg Hospital to meet the health care needs of the community, and we look forward to this next step in our evolution."

"This is excellent news for Bloomsburg Health System, our patients and the community," said Bloomsburg Health System President and Chief Executive Officer Regis P. Cabonor. "It is extremely difficult in today's environment for small, independent hospitals to invest in the facilities, technology and staff necessary to provide services. Becoming part of Geisinger Health System will help ensure the continuation and enhancement of quality, not-for-profit care in Bloomsburg."

Yearlong process

The merger had been in the works since September 2011, but was delayed earlier this month when the Attorney General's office filed an antitrust complaint. The complaint claimed Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital, along with the other entities, and recent acquisitions of Shamokin Area Community Hospital, would create a monopoly, forcing patients who could not visit Geisinger to travel to Berwick or further for their health care.

In a final order that was approved by U.S. District Judge Christopher Conner, both sides agreed the new health facility, Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital, will have a new board of directors, which will maintain the facility as a hospital for eight years after the merger. Once the eight years has elapsed, Geisinger has the sole discretion to either maintain Bloomsburg Hospital as a treatment facility, or use the campus for other purposes.

Geisinger officials said the health system will also honor all health plans that have contracts with Bloomsburg Hospital through their existing terms.

Soon after the transition, Geisinger will begin work on information technology projects to address infrastructure needs on the Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital campus, including voice and data networks and other operating systems. The project is expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete and require an investment of approximately $10 million.

Steele said Geisinger is committed to employing the Bloomsburg workforce, and employees in good standing at Bloomsburg Health System will become Geisinger employees.

The hospital will continue to provide acute care services including 24/7 emergency care, and the Bloomsburg Hospital Board of Directors will become an Advisory Council for the new Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital, he added.

Kulpmont offices closed

KULPMONT - The Kulpmont Borough offices and street department will be closed Wednesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.

Resurfacing to start next week

HARRISBURG - Preparatory work on a project to repair and resurface a 3.7-mile section of Route 225 will begin Monday, according to PennDOT District 8.

The $1,988,306 contract was awarded on May 24 to New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc., of New Enterprise, Bedford County, and includes roadway base replacement, shoulder reconstruction, inlet and drainage pipe work, cross pipe replacement, milling and resurfacing, guiderail installation and new traffic lines.

The work will be done from the intersection with Route 25 in Berrysburg to the Dauphin/Northumberland County Line in Pillow.

Motorists may encounter single-lane restrictions with flaggers directing traffic through the work zone during the project, which is scheduled to be completed in November.

MOUNT CARMEL - More than a dozen members of the oldest, continuously run women's motorcycle riding organization in North America will once again ride into the coal region to participate in the Six-County Firemen Association's Convention-Mount Carmel 150th Anniversary parade Saturday.

The Motor Maids Inc. riders parade in uniform wearing white gloves. The tradition began in 1941 when the group was asked by Howard Foley of Columbus, Ohio, to parade at the historical Charity Newsies motorcycle race. It was then the group was dubbed, "ladies of the white gloves," which soon became a permanent part of their uniform. The Motor Maids paraded annually at Charity Newsies up to their final year in 1979. Over the years, they have been asked to participate in numerous races and parades across the country and in Canada.

Diane Rumbel, executive publicity director for the organization, is a communications teacher at Mount Carmel Area Jr./Sr. High School. Rumbel encourages women riders to contact her or PA District director Pat DeSpirito for more information about the club. Members are coming from as far as Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New York, New Jersey and Maryland.

The group holds a yearly convention throughout the U.S. and Canada and club rules state members must ride their motorcycles to convention to participate.

For more information, go to www.pamotormaids.com or www.motormaids.org.

MOUNT CARMEL - Nate's Mates - an organization formed to raise money to help fight cancer in tribute to 12-year-old Nate W. McFadden, a Mount Carmel Township boy who died Dec. 2, 2005, after battling the disease - is looking to gather all Nate's Mates to march in the Mount Carmel's parade on Saturday.

Celebrating eight years of giving back to the community, members will be collecting donations for the Children's Memorial Playground while they walk.

Participants are asked to meet at Mount Carmel Area High School at 1:30 p.m. and wear Nate's Mates or Mount Carmel Children's Memorial T-shirts. Those who need a T-shirt or hat can purchase one at the Mount Carmel Area Public Library.

Also, anyone who would like can send a donation to Nate's Mates, c/o Cheryl Kwiatkowski, 121 S. Beech St., Mount Carmel 17851.

Correct number for dog warden

SUNBURY - The county treasurer's office has corrected a phone number it issued earlier this week for dog warden Alan Fegley. The correct number is 286-0424.

Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement agents will search the county to locate unlicensed dogs beginning the week of July 23. State law requires all dogs 3 months of age or older be licensed by Jan. 1 of each year. Violators could pay as much as $300 per violation, plus costs.

Driver safety class offered

TREVORTON - Trevorton Senior Action Center will host an AARP Drivers Safety Class on Tuesday, July 24.

Formerly called "55 Alive," the course is for drivers age 50 and over. Participants do not need to be AARP members to attend. The eight-hour event will begin at 9 a.m. and is taught by a trained volunteer. There will be no test to pass, and attendees will receive a certificate.

There is a fee of $12 per person for AARP members and $14 per person for non-AARP members. Class size is limited.

The Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging will pay 50 percent of the registration fee for Northumberland County residents who register before July 19.

Light refreshments will be served and lunch will be provided for those who sign up for the meal in advance.

Call Diana at 797-1996 to register.

HARRISBURG - Older Pennsylvanians, widows and widowers, and people with disabilities who are expecting a state property tax or rent rebate should receive that payment next week, according to state Treasurer Rob McCord, who said the Treasury Department will issue more than half a million of those payments on July 2. The payments total nearly $238 million, he added.

McCord said of the 505,000 property tax and rent rebates to be issued Monday, more than 365,000 will be in the form of a mailed check, while nearly 140,000 payments will be made electronically. Typically Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program payments are issued July 1, but that day falls on a Sunday this year.

Earlier this year, the state Department of Revenue extended the application deadline until Dec. 31, 2012, for rebates on property taxes or rent paid in 2011. Those rebates will be issued as applications are reviewed and processed. Citizens may obtain claim form PA-1000 at www.revenue.state.pa.us or by calling 1-888-222-9190.

McCord encouraged those who have yet to apply - or who expect to apply next year - to choose the direct deposit option. He said recipients get their rebate sooner and in the form of a secure electronic transfer. Direct deposits are also cheaper for the state to process, which saves tax dollars.

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program benefits Pennsylvania residents who are 65 and older; a widow or widower age 50 and older, and those who are disabled age 18 or older. The annual income limit is $35,000 for homeowners and $15,000 for renters. Half of Social Security income is excluded.

Applicants may check the status of their rebate claims by clicking on the Property Tax/Rent Rebate graphic at www.patreasury.gov or by calling 1-888-PATAXES.

SHAMOKIN - Lower Anthracite Region United Way has received $8,000 of a $200,000 contribution from Shell Oil Co. to the state United Way to address long-term and unmet recovery needs involving flooding from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee last year.

The back-to-back storms killed 18 people and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has reported payments to commonwealth families, businesses and communities in excess of $550 million.

"We appreciate the generosity Shell has shown toward Pennsylvanians impacted by flooding disasters, and also thank them for entrusting United Way with the means to help them," noted state United Way President Tony Ross.

The Lower Anthracite contribution will go to the Northumberland County Long Term Recovery Group and Unmet Needs Committee. It will be used to provide disaster stricken residents with case management, volunteer labor assistance and advocacy. Those who know someone who has been impacted by the flood and needs assistance with the cleaning or repair of their home is asked to contact Central Susquehanna Opportunities at 644-6575, ext. 180.

"Successful disaster recovery requires time, resources, commitment and thinking outside the box," said Whitney Fetterman, executive director of the local chapter. "The Shell investment is a big help in ensuring flood impacted Pennsylvania communities recover and become even more resilient into the future."

The high temperatures in the 90s today are expected to be repeated Saturday, and the National Weather Service (NWS) advises everyone - including those participating in the 2 p.m. parade during the 150th anniversary celebration and Six-County Firemen's Association Convention in Mount Carmel - to take precautions.

NWS Meteorologist Tony Mach said Saturday will be mostly sunny with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon.

However, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., temperatures are expected to soar into the mid 90s.

Mach offered the following tips to beat the heat:

- Schedule strenuous activities in the morning or evening, avoiding the afternoon when temperatures are the highest.

- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing.

- Drink plenty of water, limiting alcoholic beverages.

- Stay out of the direct sunlight.

- Seek shelter in the coolest places, preferably those with air conditioning.

- Eat less and eat light.

- The elderly, infants, small children, invalids and those with medical problems are most susceptible to heat and should take extra precautions to stay cool.

- Don't forget about your pets and livestock. Provide them with plenty of water and shade.

MOUNT CARMEL - The Six-County Firemen's Association Convention that kicked off Thursday in Mount Carmel is all about networking: learning more about state legislation concerning firefighting, comparing notes with neighboring companies and experiencing the camaraderie among firefighters.

"You get to meet fire personnel from all six counties. You get to find out what they've been doing and what works and what they like," said Dave Berezovske, Anthracite Steam and Fire Company's recording secretary and second vice president of the association.

Berezovske was among about 70 people attending the opening session for the 109th annual convention at the American Legion Post 91 on the Avenue.

State Fire Commissioner Edward Mann, who was Thursday's first guest speaker, said the event is an "opportunity to see one another and network."

"It gives people an opportunity to talk about problems," he told a reporter. "Tell me what's wrong and see if we can fix it," he said.

Some of the best ideas come out of conventions like this, he said.

'Relief' and friendship

The association, which includes Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Schuylkill, Montour and Northumberland counties, was formed in 1904. Its goal, as described in the convention handbook, is as follows:

"To "afford relief, support and burial of firemen and those dependent on them through legislative enactments, to open discussion upon the best manner and means of fighting fires and their prevention, to promote the organization of fire companies and fire departments in cities, boroughs, first call townships and villages now with or without such protection and to encourage a fraternal friendship among firemen."

The three-day event, which is sponsored by Mount Carmel's Anthracite Steam Fire Company and Park Row Hose Company of Wallington, N.J., is being held in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of Mount Carmel. It continues today and Saturday.

Good legislative news

Mann informed the group attending Thursday morning's session about the passage of Senate Bill 866, which provides $30 million in grant programs for 2,400 fire companies across the state.

The bill, which stays in effect for the next four years, added $5 million and allows "employed" fire departments the eligibility to apply for grants.

With the grant programs, every fire department in the state has the opportunity for $2,000 to $3,000 in funding.

"It took a lot of work, a lot of phone calls, but we got it done," Mann said. "Call your local legislators and thank them for their support."

Fire companies must register and start reporting data by 2014 to be eligible for grants, he said.

Lacking manpower

Mann, who has been commissioner for 12 years, said the biggest change in firefighting has been the number of people willing to volunteer.

"When the garden club doesn't get volunteers, flowers don't get planted. When fire departments don't get volunteers, it has a major influence on public safety," he said.

When a fire starts in today's society, more second and third alarms are sent out because more manpower is needed, he said.

"There's no one thing that will solve this problem. There has to be cooperation between the local and state government and the fire service to turn it around," Mann said.

Deanna Force, president of the association since 2011, said attendance at the convention fluctuates year to year. She estimated Thursday night's banquet would bring in about 150 to 200 guests.

Berezovske said many of the guests are staying in Frackville motels, The Wayside Inn in Weigh Scales or Pine Burr Inn in Atlas.

Special presentation

Following the morning meeting, Berezovske presented George Bortnichak Sr., 99, formerly of Atlas, with memorabilia from the convention at the Mount Carmel Senior Living Community.

Bortnichak, who was chief of the Atlas Fire Company from 1942 to 1952, has been a member of the association for 66 years and is one of the oldest living members.

Berezovske gave him a delegate ribbon, a program, a cup cozy and T-shirt.

Convention activities continue today with session at 10 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11:15 a.m. at Zion Primitive Methodist Church, 33 W. Market St., and an afternoon session at 2 p.m. that includes installation of officers and presentation of the six-county flag from Mount Carmel officials to those representing Schuylkill Haven, host of the 2013 convention.

Culminates with parade

The convention and the 150th celebration come together Saturday with a joint parade at 2 p.m. Ninety-eight-year-old Ellen Albertini Dow, a Mount Carmel native who had a memorable role in the Adam Sandler film, "The Wedding Singer," among many other films, is grand marshal.

Party in the Park, with 15 food vendors and a DJ, will run from noon to 7 p.m. Saturday in Town Park. A party for the convention will continue after the parade at the soccer fields. A fireworks display will begin at dusk from the mountain behind the Little League Baseball complex.Dave Berezovske, Anthracite Steam Fire Company recording secretary, addresses the members of the Six-County Firemen's Association at the Mount Carmel Legion during the opening meeting of the three-day convention. State Fire Commissioner Edward Mann was the special guest speak Thursday morning at Mount Carmel American Legion during the annual Six-County Firemen's Association convention.

Not surprisingly, the two men who will seek election from the 11th Congressional District in November had different reactions to Thursday's decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold the heart of President Barack Obama's health care law.

"I am deeply concerned that this overreach of federal authority will dramatically impact the health care choices my constituents will be able to make on their own," U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta, R-11, said in a statement, calling the court's support of the controversial individual mandate, requiring most Americans to buy health insurance, "a victory for big government and a defeat for individual freedom."

His opponent, Harrisburg-area Democrat Gene Stilp, meanwhile, said the Supreme Court made a good decision regarding the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

"There are a lot of people in the 11th Congressional District who have pre-existing conditions who couldn't receive health care before and will now be covered," said Stilp, also noting the law's provision allowing children to stay on their parents' health care plans until age 26 and its focus on preventative medicine.

Thursday's ruling proved to be a polarizing event.

More political reaction

Stilp, interviewed by phone, said the law isn't perfect and some work still needs to be done. He hopes there can be a bipartisan effort to do so.

"We have to stay away from the campaign rhetoric and work together," he said.

U.S. Rep. Tom Marino (R-10) offered criticism in a statement.

"Instead of making health care more affordable, it increases health care costs for families and small businesses. Instead of making quality health care more accessible, it threatens an individual's ability to keep employer-supported insurance coverage," he said.

The Williamsport-area congressman said he would continue to work to repeal the law and then "initiate a fact-based national conversation about finding a better approach" that empowers patients and doctors "not insurance companies and bureaucrats" to make decisions about care.

Diocese opposed

Bishop Joseph P. McFadden of the Diocese of Harrisburg, in a press statement, called the decision a "disappointment."

"It does not address the three main reasons why the U.S. Catholic Bishops ultimately opposed final passage of the act," McFadden said. He said he's disappointed because the act allows federal funds to pay for elective abortions and for plans that cover abortions, is unfair to immigrant workers and their families by not allowing them to purchase health care coverage and does not provide conscience protection.

"People of faith will now be forced to either violate deeply held religious beliefs or pay crippling fines because of the HHS mandate that forces religious and other employers to cover sterilization and contraception, including abortifacient drugs," McFadden said.

Geisinger weighs in

Representatives of several branches of Geisinger Health System weighed in.

"Our position has always been that change must occur because health care spending across the country is not sustainable," said Dr. Thomas Graf, associate chief medical officer for Population Health, and chairman of the Community Practice Service line.

Dr. Duane Davis, chief executive officer of Geisinger Health Plan, said he was pleased to see the individual mandate remain.

"History has proven that insurance works best when there are more individuals in the insurance pool," he said. "In addition, the cost associated with treating uninsured individuals has been a driving factor in the rising cost of insurance and one of the biggest drains on the health care system."

Dr. Glenn Steele Jr., president and CEO of Geisinger Health System, also issued a statement.

"With this decision, we can all work together toward affordable coverage for all, payment for value in the health care delivery rather than for quantity, commitment to best-practice coordinated care, and patients taking an active role in their good health and treatment."

Other voices

Following are portions of statements from others around the state:

- U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA): "The fact that this law was upheld means that Pennsylvanians will not lose their coverage due to preexisting conditions, young adults will be allowed coverage under a parent's plan and older Americans will not have to face dramatic increases in prescription drug costs. I will continue to work with other senators to make improvements to the legislation."

- Dr. Marilyn J. Heine, president of the Pennsylvania Medical Society: "Just prior to Congress passing the ACA, the Pennsylvania Medical Society adopted eight essential principles of health system reform, among them that health care coverage should be available to all American citizens. We are pleased that this decision will make health care insurance available to most Americans. However, it continues not to address two important issues, including medical liability reform and Medicare payment reform. ... By ignoring these two elements, the ACA is only a partial fix for what ails health care access."

- Neil Bisno, president of the Service Employees International Union Healthcare Pennsylvania: "(The act) expands coverage to millions of Americans and eliminates some of the worst insurance company abuses. ... This is a resounding victory for working families who struggle every day to figure out how they will be able to afford quality health care. Insurance companies have been allowed to put profits over people for far too long."

COAL TOWNSHIP - As many as 450 quad and dirt-bike enthusiasts are expected to descend upon the mountainside near Burnside this weekend when the Valley Forge Trail Riders host "Anthracite Hare Scrambles" at the site of the proposed Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA).

Attracting such a large group of riders is indicative of the appeal of the AOAA, said Pat Mack, planning director for Northumberland County, despite concerns from critics who don't believe the county should be in the off-road business.

Other than the county providing the waivers and the land, however, it will take a back seat when it comes to how the event will run, Mack said.

Members of Valley Forge Trail Riders have visited the AOAA land on several occasions since November to prepare for the event. Most of that time was spent creating and marking trails.

"We don't cut trees down. We go and find a way around the trees," said Rick Kivela, president.

"The group has been cutting downed trees and face-slappers," he added. "Ninety-five percent of the work is oriented in the woods making trails."

After getting the opportunity to view the AOAA during the past few months, Kivela said the land has a lot of potential.

"Anything you want to do, it can be done here," Kivela said. "It has a lot of stuff for Jeeps and quads; however, motorcycles are limited. It was easy terrain to work with. The trail system went in easily."

'Anybody can do it'

In "scrambles," riders complete as many laps on a course as possible in a certain time frame. There are 47 classes involving various bike sizes and rider ages.

The Valley Forge group, chartered in 1972 with the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), is dedicated to the preservation of off-road motorcycling. Membership includes men and women of all ages and ability levels from Pennsylvania and several neighboring states. The group has held at least two races every year for more than 30 years.

This is the first time the group will hold an event in the Shamokin area.

"It's 100 percent public. Anybody can come and do it," Kivela said of the event this weekend. "There are certain requisitions, such as proper riding gear, plus you have to join the AMA."

Kivela said the $39 AMA fee is required because the group sanctions the event.

Otherwise, entry fees vary from $25 to $40, depending on the class. Spectators, who may walk around any area of the course, will be charged a $5 gate fee.

The Friendship Fire Company, Shamokin, will provide food and beverages.

Beginning at 11:30 a.m. Saturday and lasting throughout the day, youth riders take the course. Adult races start at 8 a.m. Sunday with "C" class, which Kivela described as beginning-adult classes.

In one-minute intervals, riders depart from a common start line onto a primary course. Riders then branch out into one or more of the seven additional courses that vary in skill level. Times and locations of the riders are recorded by a transponder attached to a rider's quad or dirt bike.

"The courses are designed so a beginner is in one spot and not another where he will get hurt," Kivela said. "People have a better time and don't get beat up."

County preparation

The AOAA is designed to cover more than 6,596 acres of county-owned land spread across Coal, Mount Carmel, East and West Cameron and Zerbe townships.

Although the park has yet to officially open, the county has already hosted several private and public events, including a trailgating walk and equipment demonstrations by major riding manufacturers. This weekend's event, however, is likely the largest hosted thus far.

Mack said discussions between county officials and the Valley Forge Trail Riders began nearly a year ago. Topics included insurances, waivers and identifying resources.

"We cleared the event with the Pennsylvania Game Commission and environmental agencies to make sure it was copacetic," Mack said.

At the county's urging, Valley Forge Trail Riders also contracted Coal Township Police Department to provide an officer.

With the AOAA area starting to lure large groups, Mack is optimistic for a future grand opening of the park. Although he could not provide an exact amount, approximately $5 from each registrant will flow to the county from this weekend's event.

"We are very accessible, and we are an attraction," Mack said. "It's affirming what we saw in the master plan and projections."

Grant money

In mid-December, Gov. Tom Corbett announced Northumberland County will receive $1.5 million in state money to further develop the park, the largest amount awarded by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for conservation and recreation projects in that round of funding.

Additionally, the county received $300,000 in last year from the federal Appalachian Regional Commission to construct a 1,280-foot paved road from Route 125 south of Burnside to AOAA's welcome center and educational facility on the east side of the highway, as well as a $20,000 Yamaha Off-Highway Vehicle Access Initiative Grant for trail development, mapping and signage; a $10,000 Polaris TRAILS Program grant for trail design and development, and $400,000 in 2010 from DCNR snowmobile and ATV fund.

MOUNT CARMEL - Nearly 30 awards were given to civilians and firefighters at the Six-County Firemen's Association Delegates' Banquet Thursday evening.

The banquet was held at the American Legion Post 91. Guest speaker was William Werner, past fire chief of Wallington, N.J., who discussed the emotional impact he felt while assisting at the scene of the World Trade Center in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001.

Werner said he "couldn't believe" the devastation, but was carried through the situation by the outpouring support from the public and from fellow firefighters who responded from all around the country.

Members of the Hanover Township and Sunbury water rescue teams were honored for their efforts during flooding in late August and early September.

Sunbury Water Rescue saved 32 people during flooding between Sept. 8 and Sept. 10. Honored with Courage Awards were Paul Brown, William Brown Sr., Dan Lehman, Vickie Lehman, Tara McKenna, Brian Rudy, Rod Rupp, Eric Saxton, Scott Saxton, Rick Sinko, Ren Sinko, Brandon Succi, Dustin Weirick and Carl Yoder Jr.

Hanover Township Water Rescue saved numerous people stranded in homes along Nescopeck Creek in Butler Township. Also honored with Courage Awards were Dave Lewis, Kyle McCann, Bill McDaniels, Gabe Metric, Joe Nealon Jr., David Shipula, Chuck Romanowski, Jeff Tudgay, Chris Weaver, Dan Wegrzynowicz and Bob Williams.

Brothers Kyle and Jonathan Kaschak, both 14 and of West Hazleton, were also awarded the Courage Award for their actions following a pool chemical spill in their home. Kyle and Jonathan used a water hose to douse their mother and sister after they came in contact with the chemicals. The brothers are credited with saving their lives.

A Valor Award was presented to 17-year-old Alejandro Soto, of Jermyn, who saved a 79-year-old who caught fire after falling onto a space heater. Soto extinguished the fire and stayed with the man until emergency medical technicians arrived.

Hazleton Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Shawn Jones and firefighter Jose Melo were honored with the Walter Sawchak Fire prevention Award for traveling to the Dominican Republic to educate residents in fire prevention. Jones and Melo not only provided life-saving methods on how to extinguish a fire, but also donated equipment.

GED test to be given in July

MONTANDON - The General Educational Development (GED) Test, which enables adults to earn a Commonwealth Secondary Diploma, will be given in July at the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit (CSIU) main office.

Persons taking the test must be 18 years of age and must have withdrawn from school.

It is recommended that applicants attend a free GED screening at one of the sites (in Lewisburg, Milton, Selinsgrove, Shamokin or Sunbury) to determine test readiness.

GED testers must attend one of three orientation sessions at the CSIU on Monday, July 9. Call the CSIU between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays at 523-1155, ext. 2327 or 2326 to register. Bring a government photo identification and a second proof of address to the orientation session.

Testers must mail both registration forms, which can be found at www.GED123.org, and a money order ($75 for complete test, $15 for single test) made out to "CSIU" to CSIU/GED, PO Box 213, Lewisburg 17837.

Trash collection in M.C. Twp.

MOUNT CARMEL TOWNSHIP - Mount Carmel Township refuse customers are advised that trash will be collected Wednesday, despite the holiday. Bags must be at the curb by 8 a.m. The municipal office will be closed Wednesday in observance of Independence Day.

Sweeper scheduled for Locust Gap

LOCUST GAP - A street sweeper will clean streets on the playground side of the village Tuesday and the "spring" side of the village Thursday. Residents are asked to move their vehicles to allow the street sweeper to get through.

COAL TOWNSHIP - A meeting of the Our Lady of Hope Crafters Club was held in June. Crafts were worked on and supplies sorted.

Plans were made for the July covered dish. Those attending should bring a covered dish; drinks will be provided.

The July meeting will be held from 9:30 a.m. to noon July 10 in the hall. Crazy bingo will be played. Those attending should bring a dollar gift (wrapped). Door prizes will be awarded. Guests are welcome, as well as anyone who enjoys crafts.

The hall, which is handicapped accessible, is located at Oak and Chestnut streets.

Contact Phyllisdlene Kline at 648-1278 for any additional information.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Our Lady of Hope Council of Catholic Women held its June meeting, which was conducted by Margaret Forbes, president. The meeting was opened with the Prayer of Our Lady of Good Counsel and the Pledge of Allegiance.

The minutes were read by Dolly Yocum, secretary, and they were approved on a motion by Lorraine Schenewerk and Phyllisdlene Kline and placed on file.

Violette Feudale gave the financial report. It was reported that the Father's Day prayer cards were a huge success.

A hymnal for Dolores Van Shura, who was a council member, will be presented in her name. She died recently in Pittsburgh.

A thank-you card was read from Michael Feudale, who won the council award for graduation from Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School. He will attend college in the fall.

Mass for the 25th and 50th anniversary celebrants will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 2 at Our Lady of Hope Church. A dinner will follow.

The priests' appreciation dinner will be held Oct. 10 at the Wayside Inn.

The August deanery meeting will be held in Lykens.

Violette Feudale will be the hostess for the next meeting, which will be held July 17.