SELINSGROVE - Abriel Newton, of Elysburg, has been accepted to Susquehanna University's highly selective honors program. Newton is a freshman majoring in creative writing and French at Susquehanna.

The honors Pprogram at Susquehanna offers a challenging academic program to students interested in a more self-directed and interdisciplinary approach to learning. The curriculum comprises special courses and projects throughout all four undergraduate years. Discussion groups, lectures, off-campus visits and residential programs are all part of the honors program experience.

Students are chosen for their natural curiosity, passion for learning, high energy, leadership and academic standing in high school. Approximately 10 percent of each entering class is invited to join the honors program. To remain in the program, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.4.

Newton, a 2012 graduate of Southern Columbia Area High School, is a daughter of Mike and Lisa Newton.

ELYSBURG - Ralpho Township Recycling Center will now collect all plastics, from code Nos. 1 through 7.

Supervisor Dan Williams, representing the recycling department, told the board at its meeting Tuesday that Jeff's Recycling, Paxinos, will accept all recyclable plastics. The numbers are found in triangles on recyclable plastic containers.

Williams said all the plastics will go into one bin, and Jeff's will do the sorting. Pickups will most likely be more often, he said.

Some examples of recyclable containers are:

No. 1: soft drink, water, beer and mouthwash bottles, as well as peanut butter, salad dressing and vegetable oil containers.

No. 2: containers from milk, juice, detergent, bleach, shampoo, butter and yogurt.

No. 3: window cleaner and detergent bottles.

No. 4: squeezable bottles and dry cleaning and shopping bags (grocery bags are not accepted and should be returned to the grocery store for recycling.

No. 5: heavier yogurt containers, ketchup and syrup bottles, caps and medicine bottles.

No. 6: meat trays, egg cartons, aspirin bottles, and compact disc cases.

No. 7: three- and five-gallon water bottles, DVD cases.

For more information on recycling material, visit www.mymanatee.org

Leaf pickup

Howard Shadduck announced that leaf pickup will begin on Monday, Oct. 29, and continue through the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Nov. 21, weather permitting. Schedule for pickups: Mondays, both sides of Market Street and all streets east of Market; Tuesdays or Wednesdays, all streets west of Market; Thursdays, Overlook, Sunnyside and Windom Lane. Residents are asked to rake leaves to the edges of the roadway, not in ditches, and in wind rows no larger than 3 feet wide or 3 feet high; no piles. Leaves with sticks, rocks or yard waste or not in wind rows will not be picked up. Call 672-2040 with messages or questions.

Trick or treat early

Supervisors again announced that trick or treat will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 29, noting that the earlier start would be safer for younger trick-or-treaters, since there will still be daylight.

The board voted to hold the annual budget meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 23. Chairman Chip Wetzel said the meeting will be open to the public, but emphasized that the budget will be the only topic.

Also, the supervisors' office will be closed from Oct. 15 to 19 because of a staffing issue, although messages will be checked during that time.

Manager's, solicitor's, street, building, zoning, police, recreation and engineering department reports were submitted and approved. All supervisors were present.

STRONG - PPL employees responded immediately to an accident in which a utility pole was sheared off Monday morning in this Mount Carmel Township village. A story in Tuesday's edition construed that it took two hours to respond; rather, it took the crew two hours to get power back to the 1,069 customers.

Even after power was restored, the company was on the site all day repairing damage, said Teri MacBride, regional community relations director for PPL Susquehanna Valley. She said the operator of the vehicle that hit the pole, John S. May, 34, of 225 N. Franklin St., will be billed for the time and cost of repairs. Among the parts replaced were the pole, the cross arm on the pole, guide wire, anchor and transformer, MacBride said.

DANVILLE - Geisinger Medical Center (GMC) is one of six health care organizations from across the country selected by Walmart to participate in the company's Centers of Excellence program. As part of this unique arrangement, GMC will be providing heart surgery services for Walmart associates and their dependents.

"We are pleased to be selected by Walmart to participate in this innovative Centers of Excellence program," said Geisinger Health System president and chief executive officer Dr. Glenn Steele Jr. In addition to Geisinger, Walmart is also partnering with the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio; Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.; Mercy Medical Center in Springfield, Mo.; Scott and White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas, and Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, Wash., to offer its associates heart, spine and transplant services.

By seeking identified medical services at the partner health care organizations, Walmart associates can receive specialized care with no out-of-pocket costs. The Walmart program is the first time that a retailer is offering a comprehensive national program for heart, spine and transplant surgery.

Geisinger's ProvenCare is a best medical practice approach to caring for patients with a variety of health care needs, including cardiac disease. The program is designed to help patients recover faster, spend less time in the hospital and experience fewer complications.

It only takes a small fraction of your time and minimal effort to help carry out various projects to improve the community. The following are upcoming events in need of volunteers:

MoonShine Paul/Crew Xtra Point Pig Roast/Poker Run

A pig roast and poker run is set for Saturday. Registration for the poker run will be from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Rob's Goodtime Grill, Market and Spruce streets, Shamokin, with the run immediately following. The cost is $20 per rider and $5 per passenger.

The day will continue with a pig roast, including food, drinks, entertainment, a bake sale, 50/50 drawing and basket raffle, at the Fairview Gun Club in Coal Township. Cost for the roast is $15. DJ Boppin' with the Big Guys is on tap from 3 to 6 p.m., followed by a performance by the band, Dying to Live, which will continue until 11 p.m.

For more information, contact MoonShine Paul at 271-1852, Matt Renn at 975-9543, Bill Krebs at 259-3127 or Jamie Smith at 898-2594. All proceeds benefit the Shamokin youth football league.

Chinese auction/$20 night for Brian 'Pudge' Christiana

A Chinese auction and $20 night will be held Saturday at the Redman Club in Shamokin to help defray medical costs for Brian "Pudge" Christiana who recently suffered a spinal cord injury.

The Chinese auction is from 3 to 6 p.m. Prizes, including theme baskets, a recliner, pictures, a weatherization package and much more, will be drawn at 7 p.m. It is not necessary to be present to win your prize.

The $20 night will follow from 6 to 11 p.m. Food wil include barbecue, hot sausage, chicken fingers, hot dogs, ziti, haluski, pigeons and salad. Beverages and desserts will also be available and music will be provided by Tim Barret (Rock-Republik Djz). There will be raffles, 50/50 drawings and freebies.

Tickets can be purchased at the following locations: Knockers, Market Street, Shamokin; Redman Club, Market Street, Shamokin; Masser's Restaurant, Route 61, Paxinos, or by calling Rich and Sue at 259-1734, or Joan at 259-6566.

Volunteers are needed to set up tables, arrange auction items or volunteer their time during the benefit. Donations of supplies, flood and monetery gifts are also appreciated.

Cleanups scheduled at proposed AOAA land

In conjunction with the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Program, the Northumberland County Planning Department will conduct a cleanup at the proposed Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AAOA) Saturday and Sunday. Participants are to meet at 9 a.m. each day in the area of the trail head located at Route 125 outside Burnside. The cleanup will focus on the eastern portion of the property, specifically the location of the proposed non-motorized trail head. All local people, especially those interested in hiking, walking, running, mountain biking and horseback riding, are invited to help. Gloves and garbage bags will be provided. For more information, contact the Northumberland County Planning Department at 988-4220.

Other upcoming events:

Grave Robbers Run

A Halloween/Shamokin-themed version of the amazing race coined "The Grave Robbers Run" will start at noon Oct. 20. Teams of four are encouraged to pre-register by calling 205-3572. All ages are welcome. Regular registration is at 11 a.m. the day of the event at the bandstand at Third and Arch streets in Shamokin. Cost is $40 per team. Prizes include $200 for first place, $100 for second and a mystery prize for third. A Grave Robbers Ball costume party will be held following the race at 5 p.m. Independence Fire Company hall (upstairs) in Shamokin. Food and beverages (including adult beverages) are included with race fee. Those not participating in the race can pay $10 at the door. The ball will include a 50/50 drawing and basket raffle.

The event is being held by Coal City Revitaliztion Inc., and all proceeds will be donated to local community projects.

LARRC seeks volunteers

Members of Lower Anthracite Regional Recreation Committee (LARRC) are working toward constructing a recreation area near Mountain View: A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, including two soccer fields, batting cages, a walking track and a playground. The group is hoping to break ground this fall. Volunteers are needed to donate time, machines, craftsmanship and any other services. For more information, contact George Zarick at 850-3087, Jerry Waugh at 394-4327 or Coal Township manager Rob Slaby at 644-0395.

Arch St. Playground Cleanup

A cleanup will be held at the Arch Street Playground in Coal Township at noon Sunday. For information, contact coalregionpride@yahoo.com.

$10 night for Ava Mae

There will be a $10 night at 8 p.m. to midnight Oct. 20 at the Redman Club (upstairs) on Market Street, Shamokin. Proceeds benefit the family of Ava Mae Hauer to cover medical costs.

Ava was born with Joubert Syndrome, a rare brain malformation characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination. The most common features include abnormally rapid breathing, decreased muscle tone, jerky eye movements, intellectual and developmental disability, an inability to coordinate voluntary muscle movements and various physical deformities.

Zombie Run

Coal City Revitalization Inc. will hold a 2.7 mile "Zombie Run" at 1 p.m. Oct. 27. Participants are to meet in the Shamokin Post Office parking lot for registration at 11 a.m. The cost is $20 per person and the proceeds will be donated to local projects to better the community. There will also be activities for kids in the lot.

Community cleanup slated for Nov. 4

A community cleanup organized by Shamokin Elementary fourth-grade student Rosalind Kane will take place from 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4. Participants are to meet at the bandstand at Third and Arch streets. Rosalind organized a Labor Day cleanup in which 35 area residents donated an hour to spruce up various areas around town.

(The News-Item is looking to highlight some of the things to which you can contribute time in the area. We will provide that information weekly in Friday's edition. We invite you to submit ideas and existing projects to living@newsitem.com or give us a call and let us know what's going on in the move toward a better community.)

COAL TOWNSHIP - A zoning amendment approved by Coal Township commissioners Thursday will allow a group home for pregnant women to be established in the township's west end - and perhaps others in any other end, for that matter - despite opposition from several residents.

The amendment adds to the definition of a group home, allowing for homes for pregnant women or new mothers along with the already established allowances of homes for the elderly and mentally and physically handicapped.

The group homes are eligible to be established in all residential neighborhoods zoned R-2, which solicitor Vince Rovito estimates makes up 90 percent of Coal Township.

The ordinance still prohibits treatment centers for substance abuse and for the treatment of anyone considered a threat to the physical safety of others.

Residents opposed to the home in the 1600 block of West Lynn Street were concerned with how such a home would change the atmosphere of the quiet, residential neighborhood.

Pete Long, of 1636 W. Lynn St., spoke of a petition that had more than 100 signatures opposed to such a home. Many of those who signed were unaware such a home was even being given consideration, he said.

"If there are people in our neighborhood who wanted this, they would be here to support it. Everyone that's here doesn't want it," he said. "As taxpayers, I would hope that we have some say in what goes on in our neighborhood."

Central Susquehanna Opportunities Inc. and Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit have jointly applied for a federal grant to fund operations of the home, which has already been purchased by CSO and is under renovation. That grant application is still pending.

Pinnacle Place is intended to house up to four pregnant women between 18 and 22 years of age, along with their newborns, for a limited period of time in an environment described by administrators as strictly monitored. Counseling services in parenthood and career training would be provided on site.

There would be four full-time employees on site, including a "house mother" who would live in the home, and five part-time employees.

Conflicts

The vote, which passed 3-0 with two abstentions, was complicated by existing conflicts among three township commissioners - conflicts that did not go unnoticed by the residents opposed to the move.

Gene Welsh and Jerry Waugh abstained as both are members of the board of directors for the nonprofit group which will operate the group home, CSO.

The nonprofit happens to employ the daughter of Craig Fetterman, board chairman. Fetterman acknowledged his daughter's employment with CSO, which began in November 2011, in a letter read aloud by Township Manager Rob Slaby at the meeting's outset.

His daughter is grown and no longer lives in his home. Her employment, he said, began months before the issue with the group home came to surface. He added that his family should not be punished for being functioning members of society.

"The function of my daughter within the CSO is neither enhanced nor jeopardized by the vote I make this evening," his letter stated. "I will be voting on the CSO issue."

That a conflict was acknowledged allows Fetterman to cast a vote, according to Rovito.

"The law specifically allows a disclosure to be made and a vote to be had," he said of law governing ethical standards and financial disclosure.

Long asked George Zalar to explain his relationship with Gale Zalar, CSO's community action director. George Zalar replied that their relationship is through marriage and that is not a conflict according to law.

In opposition

Approximately 10 residents attended the meeting in opposition, expressing their desire to uphold the zoning ordinance rather than amend it, and prevent the home from being opened in the 1600 block of West Lynn Street.

A petition with 120 signatures was presented, 66 of whom live in the area of the home, according to George Zalar, township commissioner.

Residents spoke of concerns that such a home would attract a clientele that could engage in criminal behavior. Since the home is staffed around the clock and is to be inhabited by four mothers, either new or expectant, there were also concerns over parking.

Altogether, the combination of all concerns appeared to lead to a concern of potential negative impact on property values and, deeper than that, how such a home would change a quiet, residential neighborhood.

Township commissioners acknowledged the immediate area of the home is a great neighborhood with well-kept houses. The residents agreed, of course, arguing that such an environment shouldn't be tampered with.

"What you are doing is a good thing," Rick Marcinek, of 1610 W. Arch St., told administrators of the nonprofit groups, "but we really, really, really don't want it in our neighborhood."

"That house is not a suitable place for a pregnancy center," said Steve Minker, of 1630 W. Lynn St.

No problems

William Carpenter, township police chief, said he spoke to police departments in Reading, Bucks County, and Sauderton, Montgomery County.

There are two similar homes for pregnant women in both municipalities that are larger than that planned in Coal Township, he said. In the combined 33 years the two homes have been opened, the police departments reported not a single complaint was filed associated with either home.

Carpenter said what he learned from the police didn't jive with the fears of crime expressed by some residents, saying the generalizations aren't based of fact.

"I don't think it's fair to place fear into people," he said.

While acknowledging Carpenter's research, Long criticized the commissioners for not visiting a group home firsthand to see what it's like.

Kim Eroh, of CSIU, who helped write the pending grant application, stressed that the home would be monitored around the clock and would include counseling services for motherhood and job training.

The potential tenants are already clients of CSO, some of whom who have been kicked out of their home because of their pregnancies and have nowhere else to turn.

They must abide by strict rules and regulations to not only gain admittance but to stay in the home, she said, adding that the tenants would be working or going to school to be able to support themselves and their children.

As for concerns of significant others, she said in many cases the fathers are out of the picture. If they are in the picture, they'll have to abide by certain rules, too.

"You don't have to worry about any dad giving anybody any problems," she said, an assertion respectfully dismissed by the concerned residents.

Detour continues

RALPHO TOWNSHIP - A crew working on a drainage improvement project on Airport Road has run into some unforeseen issues. As a result, a detour will remain in effect through the weekend and the road will reopen to traffic Monday afternoon.

This will be an around-the-clock closure for Airport Road. The detour route will be Mountain Road to Reading Turnpike Road. The detour route is relatively short and should only add on few extra minutes to travel.

A PennDOT maintenance crew has been working to replace a large pipe beneath Route 2018 (Airport Road) between Route 2020 (Mountain Road) and Route 2016 (Reading Turnpike Road). This work is being done to upgrade a deep 30-inch metal pipe and replace it with a plastic pipe, which has a longer life cycle and will improve drainage beneath the roadway surface.

Shamokin Area board meeting

COAL TOWNSHIP - The regular monthly meeting of the Shamokin Area School Board will be held Tuesday. The work session begins at 7 p.m. in the board conference room, followed immediately by the voting meeting.

Progress reports to be distributed

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Shamokin Area Middle/High School will be distributing progress reports to students Wednesday. All students in grades seven to 12 will receive a progress report to update parents with their child's academic status.

COAL TOWNSHIP - For what is believed to be the first time in its history, Northumberland County Career and Technology Center (NCCTC) will provide instruction to a student from a non-participating school district.

During a meeting Wednesday night, the school's operating agency approved the enrollment of a junior from Southern Columbia Area High School into the automotive technology program. The student will attend the school on a half-day basis.

James Monaghan, administrative director at the school, said the student will attend the Coal Township facility because enrollment was full in the automotive technology program at Columbia-Montour Vocational Technical School, where Southern Columbia Area students normally attend vocational classes.

Shamokin Area, Mount Carmel Area and Line Mountain are the sending school districts for NCCTC.

In other business, the operating agency granted approval to reinstitute a student council organization for the 2012-2013 school year. Electrical instructor Richard Roughton will serve as student council adviser.

The board approved changes to the school's curriculum guide to incorporate procedures for adult students enrolling in programs during the traditional school day.

Students, faculty and staff were granted permission to participate in Halloween parades in Shamokin (Oct. 24), Kulpmont (Oct. 25) and Mount Carmel (Oct. 27) to promote programs at the school. Welding instructor Michael Bradley will drive the school's 2.5-ton truck in the parades.

The Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with area school districts, was granted permission to hold its annual career symposium at the vo-tech school May 2, 2013, beginning at 9 a.m.

Students in the protective services program were granted approval to participate in the "Safe Trick or Treat Night" on Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Plaza at Coal Township. Matthew Dunn, protective services instructor, and his students will assist event organizers with parking, logistics and safety procedures.

Monaghan reported the school was the recipient of a blue ribbon and $200 cash prize in the outstanding industrial arts exhibit at the Gratz Fair.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following hearings took place Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones. Defendants ordered to appear for plea court Nov. 26 in Northumberland County Courthouse, Sunbury, can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Jeremy P. Fisher, 31, of 908 Chestnut St., Apt. 1, Kulpmont, waived to court two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol, driving under suspension and a red light violation involving a July 1 incident at Sixth and Chestnut streets in Kulpmont.

The charges were filed by Kulpmont Patrolman Cade Holden.

n Stephen Paul Miller, 26, of 243 W. Fifth St., Mount Carmel, pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct and was ordered to pay a $100 fine plus costs. Charges of theft, receiving stolen property, driving under suspension and unauthorized use of a vehicle were withdrawn.

Miller was charged by Mount Carmel Patrolman Justin Stelma with stealing a car owned by Heather Heim from the 200 block of West Avenue on Aug. 24.

n Robert A, Broadt, 42, of Atlas, waived to court two counts of criminal trespass and one count of harassment involving an Oct. 3 disturbance at his former residence.

Police reported Broadt trespassed at 302 E. Columbia Ave., Atlas, and harassed Cindy Berkoski.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Township Police Chief Brian Hollenbush.

n Seandavid C. Gould, 29, of Saint Clair, waived to court two counts of altering or forging documents and plates, violating the use of an inspection certificate, operating a vehicle without proper inspection, failure to sign his name on his registration card and careless driving.

The charges filed by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Matthew Filarski relate to a July 2 incident on Route 901 between Boylan's Garage and Excelsior.

State Sen. John Gordner (R-27) of Berwick believes the authority that operates and maintains the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) should be comprised of outdoor enthusiasts, marketing or tourism officials and people in the business profession capable of sustaining the park for many years.

Although he doesn't have a preference on how many people should be appointed to the authority, the senator stated, "In my opinion, it's up to the county to put together the authority. My advice is to choose people involved in outdoor activities like the ones already held at the park, individuals with marketing or tourism experience and people who have business experience. First and foremost, we need to have a park that becomes fully operational and sustainable over the long haul."

Gordner said there could be a need for advisory boards to assist the authority and county commissioners with the development of the AOAA. "I don't have a set municipality representation for the authority, but I believe the advisory councils should be set up with municipality representation," he said.

The senator said the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) fully supports the AOAA and doesn't believe controversy surrounding the park will affect the project in terms of securing funding in the future.

"From a state and DCNR perspective, I don't think the controversy will have any impact," he said. "I have a good relationship with DCNR Secretary Richard J. Allan and other DCNR officials and I know they are committed to the project. They see nothing but great things for the park."

Gordner said Allan plans to visit the AOAA in early November.

The senator concluded, "I'm very happy with the events that have been held at the park and the outreach by county officials to the different groups and organizations that participated in the activities. I hope that continues."

A county issue

A spokeswoman for DCNR said the appointment of the AOAA authority is a county issue.

Chris Novak, DCNR press secretary, said, "The AOAA is a county matter. There was fairly robust participation by the public in the planning process of the park, but the issues must be dealt with at the county level."

She reserved comment when asked if DCNR believes a five-member AOAA authority proposed by Northumberland County Commissioner Vinny Clausi would be sufficient and if the agency thinks municipalities that will be affected by the AOAA have been left out of the process of forming an authority that will operate and maintain the park.

Shamokin Mayor George Rozinskie Jr. is asking DCNR for help in the city's effort to have representation on the AOAA authority, while at the same time blaming the state agency in part for creating controversy about the park.

Novak said DCNR plans to respond to Rozinskie's concerns in the near future.

Letters from mayor

In a three-page letter to DCNR Secretary Richard J. Allan dated Oct. 5, Rozinskie said county Commissioners Clausi and Stephen Bridy are ignoring municipal representation while they "push blindly forward" to create a "hand-picked" five-member board. Such actions are "very distressing, clearly showing the lack of oversight by the commonwealth."

The mayor, who had sent a letter to the county on Sept. 12 requesting a seat on the authority, says there has been no response from the board majority, and therefore is asking DCNR to intervene in arranging a meeting. It would involve city council, the commissioners, Gordner and state Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107), Rozinskie suggests.

If that can't be arranged, the city's "only alternative would be to proceed with legal actions," he wrote.

DCNR has worked closely with the county on development of the park and its 300-plus page master plan, which was adopted by resolution in December. Last December, the state agency awarded a $1.5 million grant for the AOAA, an off-road and recreational park being developed on 6,500 acres of county-owned forest and coal lands.

Despite the city's objections, Clausi said Monday's special meeting at which five authority members will be named is on schedule. The county has a deadline the next day to file articles of incorporation with the state as part of the authority formation process.

"We need to appoint those who are capable of running the park and managing money," Clausi said Wednesday, reiterating earlier statements that the county wants business people with expertise related to the park's varied functions, not merely geographical representation, on the board, and that keeping the number of members at five will help it make decisions separate of politics.

BLOOMSBURG - Two brothers who want to see children smile have donated a special collector's item to the Wheelchair Engineers model-train program at the Columbia Mall.

Francis Hall, of Montour Township, and Russell Hall, of Williamsport, added a limited-edition electric train made in the 1990s for Dillon Floral Corp. to commemorate the company's 125th anniversary. Dillon numbered railroad cars for the train and issued them as collector's items.

"We bought two of these trains and added cars over the years," Francis Hall said. "I worked at Dillon's for a while. At this point in our lives, we'd like to make sure that the train continues to make people happy, and we've given it to Wheelchair Engineers."

The brothers are retired.

The O-Gauge train will run every Monday afternoon from 3 to 5 p.m. among the dozens of O-Gauge, American Flyer, and HO trains that children and adults can play with on the free Wheelchair Engineers display, now in its fourth year at the mall.

"We're glad to get this beautiful train, with its significance as a collector's item and its connection to the Dillon company," said Bob Bomboy, who operates two free public model-train programs with his volunteer partners at the mall and on Saturdays in Danville. "Everything we have is donated."

Francis Hall pointed out that the train's green cars were made by Weaver Quality Craft Models in Northumberland. "They have pictures of Dillon facilities on them," he added.

The handsome MTH locomotive puffing smoke has a pink Dillon rose on its tender. The train also has a boxcar, a tank car and a caboose.

The Wheelchair Engineers model-train layout is handicapped-accessible. On the main layout, two trains run past animated accessories such as milk, cattle and log-unloading cars. Visitors can use push-buttons to make a helicopter take off and see beacon lights, crossing gates and a watchman with a lantern.

SUNBURY - The attorney representing Northumberland County Commissioners Vinny Clausi and Stephen Bridy and the county in a lawsuit filed against them by David F. Kaleta, of Shamokin, is seeking the dismissal of the complaint with prejudice in federal court.

Attorney Robert G. Hanna Jr. of the law firm Lavery Faherty Patterson, Harrisburg, filed a motion Wednesday in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania requesting the suit be dismissed because Kaleta doesn't state a viable First Amendment retaliation claim in the complaint. Hanna also claims in his motion that Northumberland County Judge Charles Saylor erred by granting a preliminary injunction that allows Kaleta access to the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA), while also ruling that Bridy and Clausi violated the Sunshine Act by taking action to ban him from the property.

Hanna is requesting Judge John E. Jones and Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson to hear the defendants' claims in federal court.

"We are asking the federal court to take a look at the transcript from the hearing because we think Judge Saylor made a mistake," Hanna said. "We are asking the judges to review our motion and make a recommendation, which becomes final unless one of the parties opposes it and requests a hearing. After that, we have two weeks to file a supporting brief and then the other side has 15 days to respond to our motion."

'No violation'

Kaleta's two-count complaint was filed in the Northumberland County Court of Common Pleas on Sept. 17 and removed to federal court Oct. 3.

In the five-page motion to dismiss the plaintiff's complaint, Hanna states, "A review of the record shows conclusively that no Sunshine Act violation occurred and that a letter by Patrick A. Mack (county planning and industrial development director) attached to the plaintiff's complaint, and the subsequent newspaper report were issued in error."

He adds, "A Sunshine Act violation does not in and of itself establish a violation of federal law."

Hanna said the case was removed to federal court because Kaleta alleges a First Amendment retaliation claim, but doesn't state a viable claim.

In order to state a First Amendment claim, Hanna said the complaint must allege a specific activity, including dates and times, and the precise nature of the speech that Kaleta claims was protected.

Hanna said, "The complaint doesn't detail any of the circumstances that demonstrate notice to any of the defendants of the specifics of the claimed protected First Amendment activity such that they can properly detach themselves in this matter.

"None of the basic pleading requirements for a First Amendment retaliation claim have been pled. Moreover, the plaintiff cannot recover punitive damages against the county or commissioners acting in their official capacity as a matter of law. As to the individual capacity claims, Clausi and Bridy raise qualified immunity as a defense."

Criticized Saylor

Bridy and Clausi have publicly criticized Saylor for his ruling and believe the judge should have recused himself from the case.

Clausi previously said he knew Saylor would rule against the county because commissioners denied raises for court secretaries and removed the Court Appointed Special Advocates program from the courthouse.

Clausi also was critical of Commissioner Richard Shoch for speaking with Kaleta and his attorneys, Kymberley Best and Timothy Bowers, a few days before Kaleta filed his lawsuit.

Shoch admitted to Clausi he spoke with Kaleta and his attorneys and had a suspicion that a lawsuit would be filed.

Shoch is not a defendant in the suit because he didn't approve of the letter sent to Kaleta banning him from the AOAA.

When asked to comment Thursday about Hanna's motion to dismiss the lawsuit, Best said, "We will be filing an amended complaint either tomorrow (Friday) or Monday in response to the latest filing by the defense. I'm more than confident that Honorable Judge Saylor's ruling regarding the Sunshine Act will be upheld in federal court."

In a six-page order issued Sept. 28 after a preliminary injunction hearing two days earlier, Saylor said a decision by the county that banned Kaleta from the property should not be enforced, pending any further order of the court. Also, he said the county's decision represents a violation of the Sunshine Act that requires county business be deliberated at a publicly advertised meeting.

Kaleta's suit claims the action against him represents First Amendment retaliation because he has been critical of the off-highway vehicle park's development.

"Do you really think I look like that?"

That was a question posed by a councilwoman whose picture had just appeared with a story in the newspaper. Actually, I thought the picture was a flattering one. I told her so.

This prompted a glare and the question about her resemblance to her photo. Wisely, I did not comment. I just directed her to the office of the managing editor. He was good at answering such questions.

Of course, the councilwoman was not alone in the belief that she looked much better than her photo portrayed her. Many of us feel same way about our images captured by a camera. Of course, there are many others who think of the camera as a friend and are greatly pleased to look at themselves smiling back at them from a 4-by-6 photograph.

The same sort of reaction is present when we really look at ourselves and how we live. Quite a few think their soul is much more beautiful than it is. Those possessing more humility tend to see their soul as flawed.

Cameras can lie and we can lie to ourselves, but no matter how well we pose, God sees us as we really are.

He loves us and He wants to see love for Him and others adorning our soul.

"Do you really think my soul looks like that?"

+++

Is God visible in our image?

TREVORTON - The monthly meeting of the Trevorton Senior Action Center was held Oct. 4. The meeting was opened with prayer and Pledge of Allegiance. Thirteen members were present, including Theresa McCabe, representing the Area Agency on Aging.

Betty Jane Bohner, a member of the advisory board, gave a report concerning transportation issues, finances and topics of interest, and all three commissioners were available at this meeting. Members were informed that issues are slowly being resolved for senior citizens' transportation.

Mary Ellen Hoffman read the secretary's report on the last meeting, in the absence of Wanda Heath, and Judie Urick gave a treasurer's report of the center's finances and a travel report in the absence of Joyce Koppen, a member of the travel committee.

Trips to Christmas shows are planned Nov. 1 to the American Music Theatre and Dec. 1 to the Christian Life Assembly Church in Camp Hill. Contact Joyce at 797-3695 or Judie at 648-0105 for more information. The audit report of the travel committee books has been completed and an audit of the center's books will be finished soon. Members discussed plans for a haluski sale Oct. 5 and a hoagie sale Oct. 9. The Chinese auction at the Octoberfest at the Foundry has been canceled; it will be reschedule in December at the center.

A members' birthday party, which will be a covered dish social, is planned for Oct. 19. Pierogies are being made Oct. 22 for $7 a dozen; call the center to order. The Area Agency on Aging dinner dance will be held at 5:45 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Front Street Station in Northumberland. Tickets are $13. Costumes can be worn and prizes will be awarded. Transportation will be provided; contact the center for more information.

A free members breakfast will be held at 8:30 a.m. Oct. 29,with french toast and sausage being served; sign-up sheets are available. A Halloween party on Oct. 31 will include food and games. The center's anniversary dinner on Nov. 11 will be held at the Lutheran Church, with the meal catered by Hannah's Restaurant. The dinner includes roast pork and all the trimmings, plus dessert. Entertainment to be announced at a later date. Price for the dinner is $13.50 inclusive.

Wii bowling schedules are available from Diana. Trips are planned in November to Port Trevorton to Hilchers Market, Goodwill Restaurant and Surplus Liquidators for grocery shopping. The manager went over the upcoming events for November and also talked to the seniors about transportation issues they are facing.

OVERLOOK - Police officers responded to a report of a gunshot fired late Friday along a rural road in Ralpho Township.

According to emergency communications, a call was placed to 911 at 10:15 p.m. to report a single shot was fired from a black pickup truck along Moore Road, between Blue Church and Airport roads.

The shot was reportedly not fired in the direction of a person or a home.

Ralpho Township police were assisted by officers from Shamokin and Coal Township while they searched for a black pickup, possibly a 2010 Ford.

Officers were posted near Wayside Inn on Route 61 and further south on Reading Turnpike Road while others patrolled the area of Moore Road.

No suspect was found.

Ralpho Township police lifted priority on the incident at 10:38 p.m. A visit was paid to the reporting person before officers cleared the scene about 10:50 p.m.

SUNBURY - Businesses throughout Northumberland County can help fight blight while earning a 75 percent state tax credit by participating in the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP).

The program was explained to prospective contributors Friday at The Hotel Edison during an information session coordinated by Edward Christiano, executive director of the Northumberland County Housing Authority, and consultant Christopher Gulotta of the Gulotta Group, Carlisle.

Christiano and Gulotta have worked with Louis D. Colón, central regional director for community affairs and development with the state Department of

Community and Economic Development (DCED), on their efforts to remediate blight, which Colón said doesn't stop with assistance to municipalities.

"We want to help embellish your current plan by offering tax credits to businesses," he said. "We will tackle it together.

"The key for businesses is getting a return on their investment, and I think this program will be well received," Colón said.

$250,000 sought

NAP, established in 1967, provides for a state tax credit to companies that contribute to nonprofit organizations in distressed areas. It has $18 million available this fiscal year. Money, goods or services may be contributed in exchange for the tax credit.

Gulotta said the balance of a company's contribution can be written off as a charitable contribution.

Christiano said the goal for the county is to raise $250,000 in 2013.

Realizing the process of obtaining funding is competitive, approximately 15 business representatives, county and state officials in attendance agreed with a recommendation by Teri MacBride, regional community relations director for PPL Electric, to "keep politics" out of the selection process.

Colón suggested posting billboards in communities that would acknowledge contributions made by businesses to fight blight.

He said the goal of next year's program is to offer an 80 percent state tax credit.

"That's a good incentive to participate," he said. "The timing is right and I hope you take the opportunity to be part of the team to fight blight."

"This program requires perseverance and patience, but it can work," Gulotta said, reiterating the task force's "aggressive" goal of reducing blight in the county by 50 percent in five years and 30 percent in three years.

"This is the first program in the state in which a county has entered into a partnership with its municipalities to fight blight," he added, "and I think it has gone quite well thus far."

Deadline Nov. 1

Gulotta said an application to obtain tax credits must be submitted to DCED by Nov. 1, but he said commitment letters and contributions from businesses can be accepted after that deadline. If tax credits are approved by DCED, contributions need to be made by June 30, 2013.

Gulotta said contributions will be used to acquire and rehabilitate blighted properties or demolish them.

The application, which is prepared by the nonprofit organization receiving the contribution from the business, is more likely to be approved if the application is accompanied by a commitment letter.

Tax credits may be applied against corporate net income tax, bank and trust company shares tax, mutual thrift institutions tax, capital stock-franchise tax, insurance premiums tax and title insurance companies share tax.

When the nonprofit organization receives an approval letter from the state, the business firm will need to apply for the tax credits by Dec. 31 in the year the contribution is made.

Tax credits may be carried forward for up to five years.

Effort continues

The county housing authority convened its blight task force in the spring. A meeting with local governments was held recently, where there is a commitment on the part of county and local governments to ratchet up their efforts to address blight.

Christiano said Shamokin, Coal Township, Mount Carmel, Ralpho Township and Sunbury have made commitments to use 30 percent of their community development block grant (CDBG) money to attack blight while receiving supplemental state or federal funding. Milton and Delaware Township, the other two CDBG entitlement communities in the county, have not committed CDBG funds to the strategy, but can still refer blighted properties to the county planning commission, as can non-entitlement municipalities.

Christiano said municipal officials will determine which blighted properties are targeted. He believes a review board should be established for CDBG non-entitlement communities to help identity priority projects.

Since a number of recommendations will require funding, a plan has been developed to pursue $3 million in public and private funding to acquire, rehabilitate or demolish blighted properties.

Others in attendance Friday were state Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107), county Commissioners Stephen Bridy, Vinny Clausi and Richard Shoch, county planning and industrial development director Pat Mack, Frank Morrison and Bill Kuzo of Union National Bank in Mount Carmel, Mount Carmel Mayor J. Kevin Jones, who was a guest of Union National Bank, Kristin R. McVicar, controller for Cherokee Pharmaceuticals in Riverside, Tom Rall of Swineford/Fulton Bank, and Jim Minniti of M&T Bank.

Cavalcade tonight at Kemp Memorial

COAL TOWNSHIP - The public is welcome to tonight's 46th annual Black Diamond Cavalcade of Bands, 6 p.m. at Kemp Memorial Stadium, hosted by Shamokin Area High School Competition Band.

Nine bands from throughout the region will compete in this Tournament of Bands-sanctioned event. The host band will offer an exhibition performance.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Adult admission is $6 and student admission is $4. The Shamokin Area Band and Orchestra Boosters concession stand will be open.

Alumni meeting canceled

COAL TOWNSHIP - The planned meeting of Coal Township Alumni Association on Tuesday has been canceled.

The next meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Coal Township Municipal Building, 805 W. Lynn St. All anniversary and general representatives of classes are asked to attend.

MOUNT CARMEL - The New Life Church Of God, Mount Carmel, 129 W. Second St., will celebrate its 129th anniversary Sunday with a special service at 10:30 a.m.

Interim Pastor John David Ashbaugh will officiate the service. Ashley Donn, New Life Church music director, will sing several spiritual songs. The New Life Church Of God Praising Team Trio, consisting of Ashley Donn, music director, Barbara Donn, youth center director, and the Rev. Rodger Young, maintenance supervisor, will perform several praise and worship songs in harmony.

There will be a luncheon following the service in the church basement entertainment hall. Everyone present is invited to attend the service and the luncheon.

The New Life Church of God originated in 1883 at the east side of town on North Chestnut Street, and later relocated to its present location at 129 W. Second St. in 1897. From 1923 to 1925, an exquisitely crafted, large extension was added to the church building to facilitate the church's rapid growth over the years.

During the church building's Second Street construction, and later extension addition, extreme care was given to architectural design and detailed craftsmanship, making their church building one of the most beautiful centers for prayer, worship and music in the area. The church also has a large, fully equipped cooking and dining fellowship hall in the basement, including classrooms/offices, complete separate rest rooms and an elegant raised stage for formal presentations and entertainment.

By far, the most outstanding quality of the New Life Church of God has always been the spirit of its intensely dedicated and hard-working staff. The current staff, though small in number, is massively large in giving. And in times of need they are there for the needy, even when and where others are not.

The church's history is one of ardent and continuous service to the community. During World War II, the church basement was a designated safe air raid shelter, complete with well-planned periodic air raid practice drills. The Girl Scouts and other international, national, and local well-known organizations have been and are currently using the basement and church facility rooms for their meetings and functions.

The church members and staff look forward to meeting and greeting the public who will visit and attend the special anniversary celebration and luncheon Sunday morning.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Coal Township 175th Anniversary book has been delayed because of a lack of volunteers.

Rob Slaby, township manager and committee member, said last week the 256-page book is expected to be completed by Nov. 1 and delivered the first or second week of December.

Committee members initially planned to have the book done in time for the Anthracite Heritage Festival of the Arts in May, but the book was delayed because of a lack of committee members to collect the information.

"We have very few volunteers," Slaby said. "A lot of people were busy doing personal stuff, and it was hard to get volunteers to work on it."

According to Slaby, about six people worked on the book, including local historian Garth Hall, who provided much of the information.

The hardcover book contains a wealth of information about the township, including photos and a complete history, he said. Also, sports, schools, parks and recreation are addressed.

The book will be published by Jostens Printing and Publishing, based in State College, and will cost $30 per book.

Currently, there are 25 pages of business and family-type advertisements. Slaby said the price is not bad, but he would have liked to see more people advertise to offset the cost of the book. He noted there is still time for businesses and families to reserve a space in the book. The deadline to be included in the book is Nov. 1.

Information about Coal Township 175th anniversary committee memorable items and ad sales can be obtained by calling the township municipal building at 644-0395.

SUNBURY - A Mount Carmel Area School Board director's driver's license has not been revoked while he appeals a civil penalty for refusing chemical testing during a drunk driving arrest.

Dr. Raymond J. Kraynak Jr., 55, of Kulpmont, is also fighting a single criminal count of driving under the influence of alcohol in

Northumberland County Court, having formally pleaded not guilty earlier this month.

"Of course he entered a plea of not guilty because he is the victim," said his criminal defense attorney, James Zurick. "This is a good samaritan who gets snagged to satisfy a road block quota. It's not right and it's not fair."

A civil appeal to the automatic one-year driver's license suspension was filed Aug. 2 on Kraynak's behalf by attorney Francis P. Bach. The suspension was to begin Aug. 10.

An order was issued Wednesday in county court allowing the hearing on the civil matter to be delayed six months until April 23, 2013, providing time for proceedings in his criminal case to unfold.

The prosecution, according to Bach's court filing, does not object to the delay.

The one-year suspension is a civil penalty that is applied to anyone who refuses chemical testing in a DUI arrest, regardless of the outcome of the criminal case. An appeal to the penalty is allowed under the state vehicle code.

Kraynak, a physician, was arrested May 26 and charged with one count of drunk driving after he stopped at a sobriety checkpoint on Route 61 just east of Shamokin, telling police he thought he had driven upon an accident scene and wished to render aid.

Police officers claim his speech was slurred, that he was staggering at the scene and that he failed field sobriety testing. He was placed under arrest and subsequently refused to have blood drawn for chemical testing.

His criminal case was bound to Northumberland County Court on Aug. 21 during a hearing before Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III.

Gembic said at the hearing that he was accustomed to DUI cases with "a lot more evidence" while acknowledging the prosecution only had to prove enough evidence exists to have a case bound to commonwealth court. When it reaches trial, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

A pre-trial conference in the criminal case is scheduled for Nov. 2.