SUNBURY - Northumberland County commissioners adopted an $82.3 million preliminary budget for 2013 Thursday morning on a split vote, but not before more dissension arose, despite a plea by Vinny Clausi to make peace and move forward.

Clausi was joined by Stephen Bridy in voting in favor of the spending plan, which is projected to include a 2.5-mill increase. Commissioner Richard Shoch opposed it, and later voted against adopting next year's schedule of county meetings because he believes four

meetings rather than two should be held in the evening to better accommodate the public. The schedule of meetings was approved by Bridy and Clausi.

Shoch said his reasons for voting against the budget remain the same as what he presented last week. He said he can't "in good conscience" vote for a budget that increases taxes and debt burden until Clausi reimburses the taxpayers or puts in escrow a combined $6.7 million for what he described as his "excessive and unnecessary costs associated with the secretive, belligerent and self-absorbed style of governance."

911 adds $10M

The budget includes $10 million for a capital improvement project involving federal-mandated upgrades to the county 911 communications center that must be completed by Dec. 31, 2013.

The projected 11 percent property tax increase is expected to generate $1.85 million since one mill is equivalent to $740,000. But commissioners noted the collection rate for each mill usually comes out to $700,000 because some people don't pay their taxes.

Total millage would rise from 20.318 to 22.818, which will remain the same for at least the next three years under a financial plan outlined in June by Clausi. He said, at the time, if the county did not raise taxes and borrow money, it would have a $40 million deficit by 2022 because health care, pension contributions, salaries and other costs continue to rise.

The county raised taxes by 1.95 mills in this year's budget and, by state code, cannot exceed 25 mills.

County budget director Jeff McClintock said the proposed millage increase is subject to change, because the county is still exploring options to increase revenue.

The budget must be advertised and made available for public inspection for 20 days in compliance with county code. The final spending plan must be approved by Dec. 31.

'Make peace'

Prior to voting on the budget, Clausi told Shoch, "I want to make peace so we can function better. We must stop this bickering. The allegations are over and done with. It's time to move forward."

Clausi said he was willing to change the dates of two commissioners' meetings in April and July at the administration center so Shoch could attend them. On Tuesday, Shoch failed to second Bridy's motion to pass the budget and adopt the schedule of meetings, prompting Thursday's special meeting.

Shoch said Tuesday he voted against the schedule of meetings because the dates in April and July conflicted with meetings he had in Point Township, where he serves as solicitor for the board of supervisors. He claimed Clausi purposely changed the meeting dates to cause a conflict with his schedule.

When asked by citizen Jeff Robol, of Milton, if he is committed to having more commissioners' meetings in the evening if they are well attended, Bridy said, "Definitely."

Clausi said evening meetings may cost the county more money, but Shoch and Robol both said that wouldn't be the case because many of the county workers who attend the meetings are salaried employees who don't qualify for overtime.

Shoch recommended holding some evening meetings in buildings like the Northumberland County Career and Arts Center in Shamokin to accommodate the public. He said the costs would be minimal.

Clausi also said he is willing to re-establish regular staff meetings, which he reportedly discontinued upon becoming chairman of the board.

'Not going to cry'

Shoch, who noted he is always willing to meet with his fellow commissioners to discuss issues, said, "Honesty is the first thing that needs to happen. Mr. Clausi claims he wants to bury the hatchet even though he continued to make disparaging remarks about me at his press conference Wednesday and also tried to tarnish the image of Point Township again. This kind of nonsense has to stop, but I will continue to do things for the betterment of the county and present the facts to the citizens to show how Mr. Clausi misrepresents the public. He doesn't want things to come out that he has to explain himself on."

He added, "I will call people out when they aren't being truthful, but I'm not going to scream or cry."

Shoch's comment about not screaming or crying was in reference to Clausi's past actions, which included him crying at Wednesday's press conference upon claiming he couldn't take "mental abuse" from Shoch anymore. Shoch later referred to the press conference as a "theatrical dog and pony show" and "more smoke and mirrors to cloud the issues."

Bridy asked his fellow commissioners to "think long and hard" before voting on the budget and reminded them that county operations that affect many lives could be shut down if the budget isn't passed in time. He said only time will tell if decisions made by the commissioners will turn out to be right or wrong.

Heated exchange

Clausi, who is recovering from surgery, urged Shoch and Bridy to take a vote on the budget because he was getting sick and had to go home. At one point, Clausi left the meeting room for about five minutes before returning to eventually vote on the budget and schedule of meetings.

After the meeting was adjourned, Clausi rushed out of the room before briefly returning with Bridy to make a comment about Shoch.

Once Clausi left again, Shoch said Clausi was acting like a child.

"He couldn't sit there and listen to the facts," he said.

Bridy and Shoch then got into a heated verbal exchange after Bridy accused Shoch of threatening to fire chief clerk Gary Steffen after Tuesday's meeting.

Shoch denied threatening to fire Steffen, but admitted confronting the chief clerk. He said Steffen knew a week ahead of time about a meeting with DCED regarding grant money the county has to pay back, but failed to notify the commissioner about the session until the afternoon it was being held. Shoch was still able to attend the meeting because he received notification from another source.

"I told Gary that this wasn't the first time we had a conversation about him not forwarding information on to me," Shoch said. "I told him I understood that he could get fired by them guys (Bridy and Clausi) if he didn't do what they wanted. I also told him I couldn't fire him, but I could call him out on these things."

Steffen reserved comment about the issue.

Bridy said, "Everything is a conspiracy with this guy (Shoch). You must have a twisted mind because you try to manipulate things. All I'm asking for is professionalism."

Shoch then told Bridy, "I'll put my record, documentation and credibility against yours any time. And I would be willing to take a polygraph test to show who is telling the truth. Whoever is lying, can turn in their resignation."

Clothing Giveaway

SHAMOKIN - There will be a clothing giveaway from 9 a.m. to noon Friday at Grace Chapel, 126 Airport Rd., 648-0372.

Free Christmas dinner

TREVORTON - Trevorton Community Ambulance will host its fifth annual Christmas dinner, free to all Zerbe Township residents Saturday. Serving begins at noon. Home delivery is available to the elderly and disabled residents of Zerbe, East and West Cameron and Little Mahanoy townships. The menu includes baked ham, potatoes, vegetables, macaroni and cheese, fresh baked bread, apple or peach crisp. Food is available to eat in or take out. For home delivery, call 797-4951.

Mount Carmel Borough food pantry

MOUNT CARMEL - Mount Carmel Borough Food Pantry distribution will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Notary Shop for residents who have already signed up. Midrise residents who get this are asked to meet in the lobby at 11 a.m.

Christmas village

PAXINOS - Oak Grove will present its annual Christmas Village from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday at 133 Oak Grove Road. Rain date is Dec. 16. The event will include pony rides, a petting zoo, horse-drawn wagon rides, campfires, a fiddler, free food and drinks, cookies, a gift for each family and music by the Robatins. This event is free to the public. Donations of non-perishable food will be accepted for Bountiful Blessings Ministry and Open Arms Outreach Ministry. For directions or information, call 648-6034 or Pastor Zachary Hopple at 648-8450.

Holiday concert

MOUNT CARMEL - A "Christmas Spirits" concert including more than 20 vocalists and six musicians from Lift Your Spirits Performing Arts will be held at 6 p.m. Sunday at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 47 S. Market St., next to Town Park. Admission is free, but a good-will offering is appreciated. A variety of Christmas music focusing on the nativity will be part of the performance.

Vera Bradley and Scarf Auction

MOUNT CARMEL - The second annual Vera Bradley and Scarf Auction at SS Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church Hall, 131 N. Beech St., will benefit the SS Peter and Paul maintenance and repair fund. Doors open Sunday at noon, auction begins at 2 p.m. There will be specials and door prizes and refreshments available. For more information, call 339-0650.

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.

2013 Anthracite Coalympics

The "2013 Anthracite Coalympics" is a fundraiser set for May 4 in Shamokin. Admission is free. Event registration is $15. Adult events include a 2K race, horseshoes, ultimate frisbee, obstacle course, homerun derby, hot dog-eating conest, beer pong and tug-of-war. Children's events are free, but donations are welcome. They include a race, scavenger hunt, beanbag toss, long jump and obstacle course. There will be entertainment for children as well as live music and adult beverages for those of age. Vendors and volunteers are needed. Anyone interested in helping out should contact Shamokin Coal Township Community Cares Project on Facebook, email coalregionpride@yahoo.com or call 898-5229.

(The News-Item is looking to highlight some of the things to which people can contribute time in the area. We provide the information weekly in Friday's edition. We invite you to submit ideas and existing projects to living@newsitem.com or give us a call.)

WASHINGTON — A team of former NASA executives is launching a private venture to send people to the moon for a price that is definitely out of this world.

SUNBURY - Northumberland County continues to cooperate with the state Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) in regards to paying back what will likely be at least $200,000 in grant money, and an appeal seems unlikely.

Northumberland County Commissioner Richard Shoch and county planning director Pat Mack said Friday they have not been made aware of any plans by county officials to appeal the findings of DCED auditors over the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) program, which has been the subject of much debate this week between Shoch and Commissioner Chairman Vinny Clausi.

"We have not had any discussion about that," Shoch said. "Through my experience, I don't know if there's a way to appeal, because you signed a contract. I wouldn't want to spend a lot of money going down that road if it wasn't going to be fruitful."

Mack agreed, saying he has heard no one talking about fighting DCED.

"They've been talking to us, and guiding us, and working with our grants manager. I don't know if there even is an appeal process, but we've been working with them," he said.

While DCED auditors were looking over county records in July, Mack said he and other county employees were gathering information on more than 100 clients and landlords who benefited from the program.

There was "so much" criteria, Mack said, plus some clients or landlords moved, so the county was required to find them to validate whether the files documented the proper information.

DCED mum on payment

Meanwhile, Edward Jordan, press aide for DCED, said the department is aware of the issue and is working with the county, but said DCED would make no comment regarding if, how much and when the county would have to repay.

Shoch said he was told a letter to the county has been sitting in the DCED offices since Thanksgiving, detailing the exact amount owed and what inefficiencies existed in the grant process.

He said it's possible the letter hasn't been sent yet because DCED is giving the county extra time to review files and provide further documentation.

However, Shoch was told the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), to which the grant money is owed, has been demanding money from DCED since a Nov. 11 deadline.

Shoch said a 30-day time clock starts as soon as the letter reaches the county.

Jordan said the HPRP program is designed to provide financial assistance, housing relocation and stabilization services, data collection and evaluation and administrative costs. The purpose of funding is to provide homelessness prevention assistance to households who would otherwise become homeless - many due to economic crisis - and to provide assistance to rapidly re-house persons who are homeless, as defined by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.

The payback

The county was eligible for $365,000 in funding, and county Adult Social Services and the planning department received $291,829.47 between 2010 and 2012 to distribute to low-income families, according to Mack.

Of that $291,829.47, the county used $170,254.14 - $102,468.96 in 2010, $60,945.18 in 2011, and $4,840 in 2012, he said.

From conversations with DCED, Shoch believes the county is responsible for paying back between $200,000 and $250,000 of that $291,829.47.

"They (DCED officials) wouldn't commit to a number," he said.

The problem, said Shoch, includes not having the proper documentation to prove recipients of the money were eligible and distributing money to ineligible individuals.

He has been critical of Clausi not alerting him to the problem soon enough, but Clausi denied Shoch's allegation. Clausi said during a press conference Wednesday he wasn't in favor of the grant program from the beginning, and presented a timeline surrounding the issue. On Oct. 20, 2009, he did not vote for the program and said he had no oversight of it following that date. On Feb. 2, 2012, he said he was informed by Mack that the county had problems with the grant, and he began the process to stop the program. (See the complete timeline in "Reviewing Shoch vs. Clausi," Page 4.)

From April to July, staff worked to close the program, and in July, the severity of the deficient files became known, he said.

Shoch said figuring out "how things fell through the cracks" should be addressed, but after the money is paid back.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Brewser's Sports Grille has once again partnered with Central Susquehanna Opportunities Inc., Community Action Agency, to sponsor "Keep Our Kids Warm" program, which provides outerwear and blankets to kids in need in the Shamokin and Mount Carmel areas. Brewser's will donate $1 from every check over $20 from Monday through Sunday, Dec. 16. Families in need are asked to complete a "wish list" form, which can be obtained by visiting CSO's Community Action Agency, 2 E. Arch St., Room 307, Shamokin, or by calling 644-6575 ext. 171.

COAL TOWNSHIP -The honor roll has been announced for the first marking period at Shamokin Area Middle/High School.

Seventh-grade distinguished honors - Abagail Blass, Kiara Bonshock, Michael Breslin, Randall Brosius, Jocelynne Calabro, Alexandra Campbell, Jacob Carpenter, Emma Clark, Madison Clauser, Madison Daya, Anna Delbaugh, Emily Demartino, Matthew Dimmick, Gloria Drayer, Kelsee Dunn, Colby Edmondson, Katlyn Ehman, Maryssa Erdman, Warren Eveland, Summer Finkelstein, Nicholas Furca, Kira Golden, Kiera Griffiths, Mackenzie Hasuga, Brooke Hovenstine, Jacob Jeremiah, Nicholas Kirkner, Jennifer Kozlowski, Ethan Lawton, Emma Mangiaruga, McKenna Markowski, Sadie Miller, Kamilyah Nazih, Jospeh Olah, Madison Pancher, Colton Pollock, Kali Rebuck, Bryan Sakalosky, Cameron Scandle, Scott Schleig, Ciara Tharp, Alyssa Wisniewski, Daniel Zaborny, George Zalar and Dakota Zimmerman.

Eighth-grade distinguished honors - Zachary Anascavage, Kayla Baney, Alex Black, Madison Blackwell, Patrick Bradigan, Cheyenne Burasz, Robert Carapellucci, Samuel Deptula, Zachary Druckenmiller, Cierra Eby, Thomas Eby, Aleea Faus, Amy Frasch, Tiffany Gordon, Brandi Hatzel, Cameron Jacoby, Mackenzie Koharski, Lindsey Miller, Abigale Mummey, Anne Richardson, Madison Rodarmel, Anthony Roughton, Jaden Schlagle, Kaitlyn Schrader, Ellen Spotts, Samantha Startzel, Matthew Vrona, Aleksandr Washuta, David Wolfe, Page Wormald and Sydney Zartman.

Ninth-grade distinguished honors - Thomas Campbell, Patricia Clark, Claudia Collins, Jeannette Costa, Justin Deutsch, Jacob Direnzo, Nicole Faust, Lillie Fidelman, Brady Haupt, Russell Henz, Andrew Jones, Evelyn Madrak, Emily McDevitt, Brayson Pawelczyk, Brett Rebuck, Ivy Savidge, Kayla Schell, Paige Sherman, Nicole Thompson, Christina Troutman, Rebecca Wargo and Cameron Wayne.

10th-grade distinguished honors - Tara Blom, Hunter Bloom, Alek Bonshock, Michelle Bressi, Jill Britton, Tyler Candelora, Samantha Carpenter, Jasmine Coleman, Joseph Deptula, Megan Dimmick, Heather Elliott, Draven Faus, Devvon Gallie, Tevin Gonzalez, Darian Jones, Elizabeth Kapushinski, Megan Kerstetter, Zachary Koharski, Brett Long, Kayla Marchetti, Brianna Martin, Brianna Moore, Graeme Shappell, Jacob Snyder, Taylor Tobias, Casey Wilson, Tucker Yost and Cierra Zimmerman.

11th-grade distinguished honors - Batool Alvi, Catherine Augustitus, Elizabeth Bednar, Brianna Bonshock, Olivia Bonshock, Logan Carpenter, Joseph Colangelo, Nicole Cullen, Brendan Drachler, Justin Forbes, Kayla Gordon, Katelyn Green, Nathaniel Haggerty, Dana Madl, Mariah Mong, Laryah Moyle, Catelin Pancher, Kevin Searls, Anthony Shalamanda, Alyssa Shuey, Kaitlyn Shultz, Melissa Smallets and Erik Taylor.

12th-grade distinguished honors - Anthony Anonia, David Bernsteel, Mariah Bielski, Dylan Bowers, Kortney Bozza, Darien Craft, Theodore Deptula, Stephanie Dressler, Marlena Ford, Kiesha Foulds, Austin Fry, Erica Gammon, Matthew Gass, Abbygail Halderman, Kayla Hart, Andrew Hasuga, Ashley Keiser, Angela Kinder, Kyla Martin, Christie Munson, Ciana Rollman, Megan Sheriff, Cailin Wilson, Kelsey Yacko, Michael Yucha and Alex Zalar.

Seventh-grade honors - Amber Ambrocio, Abigail Aurand, Daizy Barrett, Peyton Baskin, Kalei Bogetti, Kasey Brown, Haley Burd, Justin Caufield, Brady Collins, Taylor Cullen, Trent Curcie, Charles Diehl, John Fantigrossi, Abbi Fiorey, Brooke Forbes, Samantha Howell, Gaige Johns, Olivia Kaleta, Patrick Latsha, Jordan Leiby, Kayla Martins, Cameron McGuire, Victoria Nicola, Aaron Pancher, Kaile Pancher, Cameron Popiel, Madison Primerano, Brent Scholl, Cheyanne Smith, Stephen Smith, Elizabeth Stevens, Wanda Sulouff, Brianna Wary, Lorraine Whary, Tessa Wheary and Mackenzie Young.

Eighth-grade honors - Jacob Bartol, Madyson Bateman, Scarlett Brown, Nicolas Christiana, Desiree Cohoon, Brittany Dascani, Katelynn Dewitt, Rachel Drumheiser, Briana Erdman, Eric Fairlamb, Alexis Herb, Zachary Hillis, Carollyn Hine, Faith Hornberger, Kirsten Hynoski, Jarred Jones, Alicia Kapushinski, Jenna Keisling, Rachelle Klinger, Tiffany Klinger, Eli Kolvic, Joshua Kratzer, Dustin Kroh, Megan Krumbine, Sarah Long, Noah Mangiaruga, Patrick McGuinn, Jenai McKeen, Kiara Moore, Bradley Morgan, Marcella Nahodil, Sara Popewczak, Vincent Quincy, Carson Quinn, Jarred Rachau, Gregory Rishel, Andrew Shalamanda, Dylan Smith, Aubrey Snyder, Lauren Stanchick, Kelsie Stewart, Cody Strausser, Gabrielle Velez, Scotty Villari, Jacob Wolfe, Brittany Wondoloski, Saphire Yeager and Tobias Zerbe.

Ninth-grade honors - Michael Britton, Kyran Brown, Logan Bulchie, Preston Burns, Bradley Carpenter, Cheyenne Collier, Sierra Colross, Dilin DeCample, Gabrielle Erb, Kathryn Faust, Ryan Gass, Megan Grinaway, Kaylan Haight, Quintin Herb, Jessica James, Cassandra Kulish, Douglas McCullough, Maxwell Morrison, Travis Nelson, Christopher Petraskie, Kasey Puchalski, Kalen Purcell, Kelsey Rogers, Nathan Shurock, James Snyder, Amanda Stanchick, Dakota Sutsko, Chase Tillett, Alissa Troutman, Jakob Weaver, Danielle Wilk, Kayla Witkowski, Garrett Zalar and Callie Zimmerman.

10th-grade honors - Jacquelyn Augustitus, John Brown, Richard Brown, Ryan Charowsky, Summer Feather, Cole Fegley, Shana Fite, Derek Gross, Bridgette Hine, Carson Houser, Aaron Kalinowski, Stephen Latsha, Kathryn Madara, Brittany Madison, Mitchell McGinn, Rhiannon McKinney, Carley Nash, Darian Paul, Sean Reichner, Ronald Rhoads, Jessica Schleig, Michaela Snyder, Kiersten Stasko, Feliph Taylor, Jenna Wasarhelyi, Dylan Williams and Jarret Willis.

11th-grade honors - James Adams, Jacob Arnold, Zachary Biddiscombe, Alisha Black, Rosa Brown, Kelsey Bryant, Cearra Chipolla, Kylie Christiana, Andrew Claycomb, Jordan Collins, Eryn Cook, Daniel Delbaugh, Cody Derr, Breanna Dowling, Noelle Erickson, Caitlin Fellin, Megan Goodrich, Kenya Graham, Alyssa Green, Mitchell Haupt, Molly Haupt, Stefanie Hile, Jennifer Hornberger, Austin Huntington, Richard Jones, Robert Kulish, William Leon, Corey Levi, Sean McLaughlin, Caroline McSurdy, Marielle Miller, William Moll, Danielle Polidario, Cheyenne Popewczak, Noah Rachau, Scott Reed, Adam Richardson, Lea Richardson, Melissa Rishel, Elizabeth Roberts, Levi Rosini, Trisha Rosini, William Ruch, Lydia Sandri, Joshua Scheuren, Jodi Smith, Caleb Stahl, Austin Stine, Helana Supsic, Corinne Weikel, Brianna Wengrenovich, Ryan Wilk, Shane Williams and Natalie Wolfe.

12th-grade honors - Destiny Bowers, Emily Bridy, Sarah Britton, Jacob Carey, Michaela Caulder, Jonathan Deitrick, Julian Deitrick, Rebekah Dietterick, Adella Doncheski, Amber Erdman, Michelle Etzel, Jordan Glosek, Paul Gurba, Ian Hancock, Nikole Hartman, Molly Hasuga, Kaitlyn Jurewicz, Brittanie Kahle, Amber Kehler, Amber Kelly, Veronica Kiefer, Falynn Kroh, Alicia Lahr, Stephen Latsha, Kristen Lebo, Andrew Leeman, Shannon Levi, Victoria Mangiaruga, Todd Markhorst, Amber Martin, Molly McDevitt, Courtney McGrath, Michael Merena, Chelsea Moroskie, Ashley Mulkins, Faith Neiter, Angelina Perocier, Derrick Persing, Alaina Petrovich, Angela Piaggio, Sarah Purcell, Jessica Ramer, Matthew Reichner, Ryan Rompolski, Deanna Rosini, Rebecca Rummel, Brittany Samms, Zachari Santey, Samantha Schiccatano, Brandi Segura, Erika Strausser, Samantha Strausser, Devon Sullivan, Michael Ulrich, Nicholas Vernitsky, Elizabeth Witkowski, Shiloh Witmer, John Wondoloski, Brody Young and Collin Zalar.

SUNBURY - A Kulpmont couple and Northumberland County's prothonotary are entangled in a legal dispute over the filing of a slip-and-fall lawsuit.

An attorney for Robert and Allison Starr, Brian J. Urban, of Pottsville, claims the lawsuit was received by office personnel in July, and that receipt was confirmed with county office personnel by a paralegal from his staff.

Roger V. Wiest II, of Sunbury, representing Prothonotary Kathleen Strausser, says no such filing was ever received in July and that office personnel recall no such confirmation.

The couple are seeking to file suit against another Kulpmont couple for an incident alleged to have occurred July 28, 2010. Timely filing within two years is crucial to the suit's success, Urban says in the Starrs' complaint against Strausser.

Both parties agree an electronic search of county records in September for the disputed filing came up empty, and that Urban filed a legal writ on the Starrs' behalf during that fall visit to the prothonotary's office.

The Starrs' complaint against Strausser maintains their filing was received in July and that office personnel failed to process it in a timely fashion. They're asking a county judge to order Strausser to date their writ to reflect a timely filing.

Strausser's answer denies the lawsuit was ever received in July, and that proof of such be presented at trial.

If it was sent by mail and subsequently lost, the plaintiffs assumed the risk of such delivery, Strausser said.

Urban countered that the U.S. Postal Service is an acceptable means to file legal papers, using the appellate courts as an example, and cites the "mailbox rule" in case law that proof of mailing - in the Starrs' case, dated envelope and receipt from USPS - "raises rebuttable presumption the mailed item was received."

SHAMOKIN - More than 4,000 Northumberland County residents eligible for a tax/rent rebate program had yet to apply for state money as of early last month.

A spokeswoman for Department of Revenue said an estimated 4,693 eligible county residents hadn't applied for the annual Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program as of Nov. 5; 3,033 had applied.

Rebates of up to $975 are paid out annually to seniors over 65 years old as well as widowers over 50 years old and adults of all ages with a disability in order to offset the cost of taxes or rent.

The Commonwealth paid out $284.1 million in rebates in 2011, including a combined $2,773,710 to 6,908 Northumberland County residents, according to state Department of Revenue.

Those rebates were supplemented by an additional $95,923 for 367 of those residents.

Rebate applications received by Department of Revenue by Nov. 5 and the number of eligible residents who had not applied as of that date in neighboring counties are: Columbia, 1,742, 2,865; Schuylkill, 4,092, 8,321; Snyder, 339, 1,627; Union, 680, 1,278.

Deadline to apply for the program is Dec. 31. There is no cost to apply and filing assistance is available.

The annual income limit is $35,000 for homeowners. Renters who earn less than $15,000 annually are eligible.

Half of Social Security income is excluded when calculating the rebate, according to the department.

The maximum standard rebate is $650; however, supplemental rebates can increase the payout.

For more information call 1-888-222-9190 during normal business hours weekdays or visit www.revenue.state.pa.us.

'Fill the Truck' campaign today

COAL TOWNSHIP - The local Salvation Army chapter is hoping to "Fill the Truck" today at Walmart Supercenter.

Shoppers are encouraged to purchase new toys and coats for children and help the Salvation Army fill a cube truck that will be parked outside the store from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The truck is being donated for the day's use by Knoebels.

The items will be distributed to needy local families this holiday season.

League looking for b-ball players

MANDATA - The Line Mountain Girls Fifth and Sixth Grade Basketball League is searching for teams from the area to register for the league by Dec. 16. Students in fifth or sixth grade from any school in the area are eligible to sign up. Contact Abby Derck at 847-2638 for more information or to sign up.

CATAWISSA RR - Earlier this year, parents, students and taxpayers of Southern Columbia Area School District packed public meetings and influenced the school board not to cut any programs or teachers from the music department.

Now, there's a new battle to fight to keep the arts funded.

The SCA music department, which has 350 students this year, is a finalist to win $50,000 from Clorox "Power A Bright Future" grant program, and they need the same kind of passionate support from the community shown months ago.

"The fight is going to have to continue," Lori Kriebel, fundraising chairwoman for the music boosters, said Wednesday.

"We want, whether we win or lose, to give people an opportunity to support the arts," said Letha Stone, who teaches fifth- through 12th-grade choir and organizes the school musical.

In other words, said Stone, "We need people to vote."

Vote daily

The competition started Nov. 12 and ends at 11:59 p.m. Dec. 19. Adults and children 13 years and older can vote online or via text once a day.

The program with the most votes will be awarded a $50,000 grant. The next top vote-getters in the three categories of Play, Create and Explore will each be awarded a $25,000 grant. Clorox's judging panel will select three additional schools from each category to win an additional $25,000 grant.

More than 5,000 schools applied for the grant, and SCA was one of 2,500 schools chosen as a finalist.

Any time the music department can get a grant, the money can be used to supplement what the school gives them, Stone said.

Furloughs, 'fight'

Business Manager Mike Sokoloski said the four music teachers are paid approximately $360,000 in salaries and benefits, and there is $25,000 dedicated to the fine arts, which include the music department and technical education, to spend on instrumental repair, general classroom, festival fees and equipment upkeep.

Superintendent Charlie Reh said $163,000 was spent in 2005 to upgrade the sound system, sound board and lighting in the auditorium, and $28,000 was spent in 2009 for new band uniforms.

When the school board was attempting to balance the $17 million 2012-13 budget in the first half of 2012, there were two music teaching positions among at least 16 employees being considered for furloughs, including Stone's position.

Stone, however, would have remained employed because she is also certified to teach elementary students.

In February, nearly 180 students, alumni, teachers, parents, booster representatives and concerned citizens piled into the high school library where public meetings are held to rally in favor of the music department. The students even sang "We Will Fight" by Charles Master in the hallways before the meeting.

Most of the positions, the music department's included, were eventually saved, but taxes for property owners in Northumberland County increased by 2.08 mills, and by 4.67 mills for Columbia County property owners.

SCA wish list

If Southern wins the $50,000, Stone said there are plenty of large or expensive instruments that could be purchased or repaired with the money.

Kriebel said some of the instruments are "starting to show their age," but the grant would not be enough to replace every instrument.

She said it's possible the department would likely be used to replace the timpani and two choral risers.

The timpanis, or kettledrums, have pedals that no longer tune, and the risers, which the students stand on during performances, are worn out, Kriebel said.

Furthermore, music is an important part of the curriculum to students, she added.

"It's a good teaching tool and they get discipline. It makes them better students and better people in life," she said.

It would be a "real advantage" to be the recipient of this grant, band director Joel Thomas said.

"Everybody should vote. Hopefully, we'll win," he said.

At this point, Kriebel said there aren't many contingency plans if the school doesn't win the money, including planning more fundraisers and applying for other grants.

"We're doing what we can to stay afloat," she said.

In order to vote for SCA via cell phone, text 1114pbf to 95248 once a day until Dec. 19. To vote online, visit and register at https://powerabrightfuture.clorox.com/nominees/detail/?nid=1144.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Four people escaped serious injury Saturday morning after the vehicle in which they were riding was hit by a deer that is thought to have been spooked by hunters.

John Reidinger, of Trevorton, said he was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee east toward Shamokin on Route 225 (Trevorton Road) near Odd Fellows Cemetery when the deer leaped from a stone retaining wall, behind which is a wooded area. The deer hit the Jeep, shattering the windshield and door windows on both the driver and passenger sides. Following the incident, Reidinger was able to drive the vehicle to a nearby parking lot. The deer was killed.

Reidinger, his two children and a female companion were not injured, but were treated at the scene for minor cuts and scrapes.

"We were lucky," Reidinger said while inspecting the scene.

He said the deer seemed to "come out of nowhere."

Patrolman Chris Lapatski of Coal Township Police Department investigated the incident. AREA Ambulance and Coal Township firefighters, chiefs and fire police also responded.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Through the generosity of area residents, some local children will find a few extra gifts under their tree Christmas morning.

At Walmart stores across the country, Saturday became "Fill the Truck" day and donated items were given to their local The Salvation Army chapters.

Maj. Tina Streck and office manager Judy Orner, of the Shamokin chapter of The Salvation Army, watched while store patrons left the Coal Township retailer with an extra toy, game or item of children's winter clothing and placed it on the truck.

"We had a good jump in the morning, but it has leveled off a little," Streck said Saturday afternoon. "We are grateful though for all the support the area is giving us."

Streck said there are about 600 families who have submitted applications for Christmas assistance this year, with 100 more on the chapter's waiting list.

"Hopefully, we will be able to help everyone," Streck said.

This is the first year The Salvation Army and Wal-Mart Stores Inc. have paired for the "Fill the Truck" event. According to a Wal-Mart press release, collections are expected to provide gifts to more than 10,000 children nationwide. Walmart Foundation also made a $1 million donation to The Salvation Army's national Red Kettle Campaign.

The local chapter was also helped out Saturday by Knoebel Lumber, which donated the truck for Saturday's collection and provided a special appearance by Knoebels Amusement Resort's mascot Kozmo.

At the start of the event, Shamokin's Liberty Fire Company brought Santa and Mrs. Claus to the store to collect toys and donations for The Salvation Army. Fire company members also volunteered their time to ring bells, drawing attention to the signature red kettles throughout the day.

"Every little bit helps," Streck said. "I know that the Lord will provide and help us reach our goals."

Auction

In addition to kettle collections and the toy drive, a special auction was held at Energy Liquidators, Coal Township, from which 100 percent of the proceeds was given to The Salvation Army. While the turnout wasn't as big as expected, Streck said the bidding went well.

"They didn't have the crowd that they were hoping for, but those who came were generous with their bidding," she said. "I also have to thank all the merchants and citizens who donated items."

Streck said The Salvation Army will begin work on the other needs for this year's Christmas baskets.

"We want to make sure that there are meats in the Christmas baskets: the hams and the turkeys. That is our next project," she said.

Marriage licenses

Ronald-Joseph Gane Sr., of 315 State Route 2026, Coal Township, and Joan M. Lehman, of 4315 State Route 2026, Coal Township. Issued Dec. 6.

Eric David Holtzapple, of 127 Poppy Rd., Paxinos, and Ashley Marie Novakoski, of 205 1/2 Water St., Northumberland. To be issued Dec. 10.

Divorces

Lori B. Earl, 24 S. Third St., Shamokin, from Micah N. Earl, 1109-1113 W. Spruce St., Coal Township. Married Aug. 27, 2011.

Jeffrey M. Greco, 158 Main St., Paxinos, from Martha M. Greco, 111 Laurel Lane, Oak Ridge Estates, Mount Carmel Township. Married June 10, 1972.

Madeline M. Nebrotski, 117 First St., Danville, from Chester J. Nebrotski, 1 Highland Drive, Riverside. Married April 22, 1989.

Sean D. Brady, 24 Highland Drive, Danville, from Stephanie M. Brady, 4470 S. Lemay Ave., No. 105, Fort Collins, Colo. Married July 24, 2004.

Patrick J. Burns, 936 Chestnut St., Kulpmont, from Nicole J. Baker, 136 E. Arch St., Shamokin. Married July 21, 2007.

Samantha N. Fetterolf, 134 Arizona Drive, Kulpmont, from Richard Allen Fetterolf Jr., 634 Scott St., Kulpmont. Married Aug. 28, 2010.

Derrick James Guthrie, 107 W. 10th St., Watsontown, from Kimberly Ann Guthrie, 3206 Neel Court, Killeen, Texas. Married Sept. 23, 2009.

Joan Marie Konopski-Helt from Randy C. Helt, both of 27 First St., Locust Gap. Married Aug. 28, 1997.

Property transfers

Daniel F. Karpinski Jr. to Doogie's Pizzeria LLC, property in Shamokin, $55,000.

Paul R. Vincenzes to Joseph J. Kripplebauer Jr. and James Galbraith IV, property in Mount Carmel, $5,000.

Joseph M. Bucharski, Margaret Bucharski, Lambert John Paul and Christine Paul to Matthew W. Renn and Kristy R. Renn, property in Coal Township, $45,000.

Henry Waskiewicz (by agent), agent Donna Shuder to Donna Shuder, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Wendy A. Reigel to Peter N. Spadotto, property in Coal Township, $108,000.

Ryan R. Price to Dennis A. Kodack Jr., property in Shamokin, $1,000.

Prean Family Trust (by trustee) and Elizabeth Anne Nolan (individually and trustee) to Margaret L. Cowles, property in Mount Carmel Township, $157,000.

Marilyn J. Baskin and Robert R. Baskin to Sheryl L. Kline and Robert B. Kline, property in Coal Township, $1.

Russell A. Goretsky and Lorri A. Goretsky to Nathan E. Neidig and Alaina C. Mays, property in Ralpho Township, $110,000.

William R. Shepperson, Kristin L. Shepperson and Brian L. Shepperson, to Neil A. Ebert Jr. and Maryann K. Ebert.

Robert C. York Sr. (trustee), Kathleen M. York (trustee), Robert C. York Sr. Revocable Living Trust (by trustee) and Kathleen M. York Revocable Living Trust (by trustee) to BKP, Inc., property in West Cameron Township, $67,900.

Charlene Y. Bloom Revocable Living Trust Agreement (by trustee), trustees Cheryl L. Walter, Cheryl L. Kuster, Elden N. Bloom II and Glenn A. Bloom to Cheryl L. Walter, Cheryl L. Kuster, Elden N. Bloom II and Glenn A. Bloom, property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

Cheryl L. Walter, Cheryl L. Kuster, Eric A. Kuster, Elden N. Bloom II, Joanne E. Bloom and Glenn A. Bloom to Glenn A. Bloom, property in Rockefeller Township, $107,000.

Kenneth L. Cook estate, Heather M. Kirby (executrix) to Heather M. Kirby, property in Shamokin Township, $1.

Mary Lou Bednarczyk (individually and executrix) and Irene Andrulevich estate to Northeast Apartments LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $11,000.

Peggy Ann Derk and Salathiel D. Derk to Linda R. Bauman, property in Shamokin, $41,000.

Robert J. Gresavage Sr. and Susan L. Gresavage to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, property in Jordan Township, $1.

Philip C. Zawatski and Blanche F. Zawatski to Colin P. Zawatski (trustee) and the Zawatski Irrevocable Intro Vivos Trust, property in Coal Township, $1.

John R, Sandri III (executor) and Jeanne M. Sandri estate to Richard M. McSurdy and Gina V. McSurdy, property in Shamokin Township, $7,500.

Alma M. Stahl to Stahl Farms LLC, property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Louis Dondero to Arthur J. Catino Jr. and Maria Catino, property in Mount Carmel, $4,500.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau, Timothy J. Mattera and Connie E, Mattera to Valerie Revinski, property in Mount Carmel, $1,426.11

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau, Francis Tanney Sr. and Elizabeth Tanney to Apical Properties Inc. property in Mount Carmel, $1,556.54.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Marietta Tafner to Henry G. Catino, property in Mount Carmel, $1,468.88.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Lori Knopp to Lawrence Santiago and Sonia Santiago, property in Mount Carmel, $2,324.30.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Shawn J. Wondoloski to Lawrence Santiago and Sonia Santiago, property in Shamokin, $1,751.61.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Barry A. Strausser to Kelly M. Wilson and Shawn F. Hartman, property in Coal Township, $4,100.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau, Samuel B. Moyer and Esther A. Moyer to Edward M. Wilson and Kelly M. Wilson, property in Coal Township, $1,675.64.

St. Anthony of Ranshaw LLC to John L. Willis and Christina M. Willis, property in Coal Township, $69,000.

Jodi aka Jodie R. Merow and Scott B. Merow to Frank P. Bergonia and Elizabeth Anne Bergonia, property in Kulpmont, $22,000.

Joanne G. Hockenbroch to Kerry L. Hockenbroch II and Lindsay J. Hockenbroch, property in Shamokin Township, $1.

Jonathan Powell to Joseph R. Bobeck, property in Shamokin, $25,000.

Richard Morris and Amy Morris, to Marissa D. Fisher and Lee Ann Lori Long, property in Shamokin, $1,700.

Donald M. Burd (co-executor), David L. Burd Sr. (executor) and Emma Burd estate to Donald M. Burd, property in Coal Township, $40,000.

Ann M. aka Ann Milo estate, Ann Ference Milo estate and Vida Saylor (executrix) to James R. Miller Jr., property in Mount Carmel, $44,000.

SHAMOKIN - As a project develops to restore the stone channel of Shamokin Creek in the city's downtown, historians are working to piece together its history - and they're seeking the public's help.

Tom Grbenick and Tom Deans have been pouring over the city archives in the basement of City Hall, paging through decades-old minutes of city council meetings, resolutions and maps. Local newspaper archives at Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library were also scrutinized.

For a blue collar town whose residents mostly worked in factories, mills and mines, Grbenick was struck by the dignity and beauty and society-atmosphere that existed in Shamokin in the 1930s.

"This was a proud place, I think," he said. "I would think it would be inspirational to a whole new generation of people if they can get past (how) they view (Shamokin) today."

Grbenick and Deans have taken to the online state and national archives as well, but for all their time spent, they've come up with little in the way of a complete history.

Few details

They know the project began in 1935, one of several of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), and that it carried on into the early 1940s. Anywhere from 200 to 500 people were working on WPA projects - sidewalk repairs, firehouse construction, sewing projects - throughout the Shamokin area at the time, they say.

The creek bed project started with the removal of a buildup of culm in the dirt-bottom stretch of creek throughout the city, they surmise.

"All of this led to the idea of putting stone walls in the creek," Grbenick said, with Deans adding, "And the floor."

Key to the project is information about the stones and where they were quarried, but the holy grail for their quest would be finding the original design specs or blueprints, if they still exist.

Harry Reinhardt was Shamokin's engineer at the time, and likely in charge to some degree. A few cold calls placed to people sharing that same spelling of his last name listed in a local phone book turned up nothing.

Grbenick and Deans hope a relative or perhaps an engineer or architect who may have somehow inherited Reinhardt's files, or that of WPA projects in the city, is alive and well and able to fill in some gaps about the Shamokin Creek channel.

Shamokin Creek's stone channel is one of the fewest examples of rock-lined stream channels in the state, and it's significant in terms of quality of work and, at 1.2 miles in the city, its size, they say.

"The intent here is to restore the stone masonry construction," said Deans, who had been project coordinator for the Sunbury Riverfront project.

The original plans would be very helpful to the current engineers, said Grbenick, director of SEDA-COG.

Flood damage

The channel was badly damaged during the September 2011 flooding, and the city received nearly $1.8 million from Federal Emergency Management Agency for repairs.

An engineering survey in September drove up the estimated construction costs from nearly $1.2 million to nearly $2.7 million, and the city has asked for an additional $1 million.

Grbenick said the latest survey is more accurate. The original estimates came when water levels were higher. September's survey was performed when the levels were lower, allowing discovery of a expanded scope of repairs including some that were not observed previously.

Putting together the history of the channel is critical because the restoration plans must be reviewed by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission; the city's downtown has been identified as a potential nationally registered historic district.

Anytime a federal project is approved within a historic district - even one deemed a potential historic district - historic preservation rules must be followed, Grbenick said.

Steve Bartos, city clerk, hopes the project could kickstart economic revitalization in the downtown, and by perhaps being added to the National Register of Historic Places, create leverage for public and private grant funding sources.

The revised project estimates and additional funding request are under FEMA review. Agency officials visited Shamokin Oct. 19 and were presented the project update. Recommendations from the officials were added to the revised plan and final approval is expected by year's end.

"Once we get final approval, we can start the work," Bartos said, referencing opening the bidding for the project and beginning construction.

Much damage

There are 18 project areas - two more than the first estimate - that contain 50 items targeted for repair.

The majority are in the Shamokin Creek channel between Franklin and Mulberry streets in the city's southern end to an area behind Claude Kehler Community Park. Damage has also been identified and marked for repair in the stone channel of Carbon Run between near Sixth and Willow streets north to near Chestnut and Fourth streets.

Repairs for wall washouts and damage, base scouring and replacement and debris removal make up a majority of the work.

Basic flood prevention will be the focus on the project's northern and southern ends.

Particular detail to historic preservation and restoration - fixing the stone and returning it to its previous state - will be paid to the city's downtown district, between where Shamokin Creek and Coal Run meet near Washington and Water streets and the Independence Fire Association on Market Street.

Landscaping and walking trails along the creek channel in the downtown will be focused on as well.

Memories welcome

Finding the original specs is a long shot, Grbenick and Deans admit. What should be easier to come by are memories.

Anyone who may have been alive and old enough to have a memory of the WPA project - even as simple as observations while they walked past the creek channel during construction - is asked to contact Grbenick and Deans.

Tales from descendants of those employed by WPA would also be helpful.

Photos of the work or of the Shamokin Creek area during construction, no matter how old or faded, would be useful.

The duo are working on a tight deadline, with a self-imposed deadline of Dec. 31.

Anyone wishing to share information or photos should call Grbenick at 522-7214 or Bartos at 644-0876.

The Mount Carmel Area Board of Education Merit Award winner for October 2012 at the elementary level is fifth-grade student, Makenzie Pyle, daughter of Bruce and Lori Pyle of Mount Carmel. Makenzie excels academically, is on the distinguished honor roll, and receives outstand scores on the PSSA's.

The Mount Carmel Area Board of Education Merit Award winner for October 2012 at the high school level is senior student MaryRose Latorre, daughter of Steve and Cheryl Latorre, Denmar Gardens. MaryRose is a member of the National Honor Society, is captain of the cheerleading squad and is an editor for both the yearbook and MCA-Live news reporting staff. MaryRose is actively involved in Interact, Spanish Club and SADD and has previously won the Elks Junior Student of the Month award. She has also represented MCA in Odyssey of the Mind, competing at both the state and world levels.

Phoenix Rehab to host holiday event

SHAMOKIN - Phoenix Rehabilitation and Health Services invites the public to its free holiday event, Milk and Cookies with Santa.

The event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Phoenix Rehabilitation's city location in Mill Road Square on North Franklin Street, near the Shamokin Police Department.

Children will be able to have their photo taken with Santa Claus. There also will be children's games, live reindeer and free refreshments.

Each guest is asked to bring as a donation new winter hats, mittens, gloves or scarves to benefit those in need locally. All collected items will be donated to Hope Ministries.

MOUNT CARMEL - Mount Carmel Mayor J. Kevin Jones has proclaimed Monday as Bruno John Leonardi Day in the borough.

Leonardi was born Dec. 9, 1912, in a small town in Austria called Tuenno in the Trento region, which is now part of Italy. He came to America in 1933 to join his parents, who had arrived in the early 1930s.

After working in various local jobs and becoming a U.S. citizen, he entered the U.S. Army in 1942. Leonardi served in Europe and Africa and received various medals, including three bronze stars.

In 1946, he met Theresa Pupo, and later that year, they married. They had three children and a grandson.

In 1951, he and his brother, Ezio, opened Mount Carmel Dry Cleaners, which operated in various locations until 1989.

Today, Bruno lives with his daughter and son-in-law, Ray and Theresa Hornberger. His wife passed away in 2003.

On behalf of council and borough citizens, the mayor congratulates Bruno John Leonardi on reaching his 100th birthday.

Jones said Leonardi is a great example of the many immigrants who came to this country for a better life. He raised a good family, served his country and became a productive part of the areas business community.

Happy 100th birthday.

DANVILLE - A Geisinger Health System administrator says the company is studying the potential for a business partnership to create a natural gas fueling station.

Al Neuner, vice president of facilities operations, said in an e-mail through a spokesperson that the review is part of a continuing evaluation of a state grant program providing incentives for using natural gas to fuel fleet vehicles like large trucks and, in Geisinger's case, shuttle buses.

"Although this grant is somewhat attractive for vehicle purchase, the high cost item is the fueling station, which currently has no funding available," Neuner said in the e-mail. "We are evaluating whether there is a way to make this work by partnership with others.

"I suspect this will be a study item over the next several months."

Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is offering $20 million over the next three years through its Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program - $10 million in 2013, $7.5 million in 2014 and $2.5 million in 2015.

The funding covers about half the incremental costs to convert or purchase a fleet of at least five vehicles. Vehicles must weigh more than 14,000 pounds to qualify. The maximum award per vehicle is $25,000.

None of the funding, however, is eligible for infrastructure development for fueling stations, and access to such a facility or a plan to build at least one in Pennsylvania is a grant requirement.

Geisinger has been researching the use of natural gas vehicles over the past year, Neuner said, adding that it is too early to speculate where a potential fueling station would be constructed if the project were to become reality.

The cost to either convert or purchase new a natural gas vehicle compared to one fueled by diesel is significant. So, too, is the price of diesel fuel above natural gas, and over time, it's the fuel costs where savings potentially could be realized.

Diesel averaged $4.02 a gallon this week, and regular unleaded gasoline $3.39 a gallon, a federal agency reported. That's compared to the $2.16 average for the equivalent of one gallon of compressed natural gas, according to an industry website.

The application period for the first round of funding through the Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program opened Dec. 1 and closes Feb. 1.

A transportation firm that operates shared-ride routes in Northumberland County, Rabbittransit, is also exploring the potential the grant presents, an company official said Tuesday.

SYRACUSE, N.Y. - Aubrey Lynne Stover, daughter of Denise A. Stover, of Shamokin, and Joel R. Stover, of Mifflinburg, was recently awarded the Forty Under Forty Award, which is sponsored by Syracuse University's Whitman School of Business and the Central New York Business Journal.

Forty Under Forty recognizes 40 ambitious, hard-working, civic-minded individuals, who are age 39 and under. These individuals have excelled in the workplace and in the community, and come from diverse backgrounds, experiences and skills. They also thrive on active community involvement and appreciate the importance of their role in advancing public good.

Stover is a graduate of Syracuse University, with a master's degree in social work, and Penn State University with an associate degree in letters, arts, and sciences, a B.A. in both history and sociology, and a Master of Education in teaching and curriculum.

She is a licensed master social worker in New York and she earned her credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor certification while she worked as a chemical dependency therapist for Crouse Hospital-Chemical Dependency Treatment Services. She currently works with adolescents in the "Choices" program for Central New York Services Inc., as a chemical dependency therapist stationed at Elmcrest Residential Treatment Facility.

St. Pauline Christmas luminary event

KULPMONT - The St. Pauline Center in Kulpmont will hold its 10th annual Christmas Luminary Event and Christmas worship concert Saturday, Dec. 15, starting at 6 p.m.

Music at the concert will be provided by the Lift Your Spirit Performing Arts Group. Luminaries will be available starting at noon Friday, Dec. 14, and until the time of the event. Complimentary cookies and hot chocolate will be served.

Those that can make it to the center can still purchase a luminary by sending their petition with $5 to the St. Pauline Visintainer Center, P.O. Box 115, Kulpmont 17834. At the event, St. Pauline statues and other religious items will be available.

'Coalympics' new contact information

The "2013 Anthracite Coalympics" is a fundraiser set for May 4 in Shamokin. Admission is free. Event registration is $15. Adult events include a 2K race, horseshoes, ultimate frisbee, obstacle course, homerun derby, hot dog-eating contest, beer pong and tug-of-war. Children's events are free, but donations are welcome. They include a race, scavenger hunt, beanbag toss, long jump and obstacle course. There will be entertainment for children as well as live music and adult beverages for those of age. Vendors and volunteers are needed. Anyone interested in helping out should call Matt Reidinger at 495-1776, Kathy Klase at 509-2632 or email coalregionpride@yahoo.com.