Chamber job fair today

PAXINOS - A job fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at Masser's Banquet Hall, near the intersection of Routes 487 and 61.

Job seekers will be granted free admission and are asked to bring resumes. The event gives attendees the opportunity to meet with area employers, discuss job opportunities, obtain training information and learn more about the WorkKeys program.

There are 26 participating businesses and organizations ready to distribute information.

The job fair is sponsored by the Northumberland/Snyder/Union Counties PA CareerLink, Sunbury, Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce and McCann School of Business and Technology, Sunbury.

Electronic recycling delayed one week

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Coal Township Recycling Center is delaying the re-start of electronic recycling from Thursday to April 11.

Fingerprinting event set for Thursday

VALLEY VIEW - Woodmen of the World will host a free DNA/fingerprinting kit event for children at 10 a.m. Thursday at Trinity Day Care inside Trinity Church, 1220 W. Maple St.

A second event will be held at 10 a.m. April 18 at Little Blessings Day Care, 1382 W. Main St.

For more information, contact David Schreffler at 648-6255. Schreffler represents Woodmen of the World Lodges 229 in Trevorton and Lodge 433 in Pitman.

SHAMOKIN - City officials are considering funding a door-to-door census in the hope of boosting the collection of delinquent taxes.

It's estimated $150,000 in per capita and occupational taxes went unpaid to the city last year. Powell, Rogers and Speaks, a Halifax-based collections agency, recouped $21,000 in delinquent payments in 2012. When City Hall turned to the firm to come up with a different plan to increase collections from tax scofflaws, the idea of a local census was discussed.

Steve Bartos, city clerk, told city council and the mayor during Wednesday's workshop that the firm would consider a pilot program in the city's smallest ward, the 10th, where representatives would knock on each door of the estimated 400 residential units to collect information on the occupants and compare it to the latest tax rolls and list of delinquents. They would use that information in their collections efforts.

He estimated the actual cost for the pilot program including materials, postage and labor at $4,734, but said Powell, Rogers and Speaks proposed to do it for $3,000.

If the proposal is authorized by vote at Monday's regular council meeting, the pilot program would begin shortly afterward, with results anticipated as early as late July, he said. Those results could be used for a wider statistical analysis for all of Shamokin to see if the return is worth the effort.

The city treasurer collects per capita and occupational taxes from Shamokin residents on behalf of the city, Northumberland County and Shamokin Area School District. Less than half of those bills went unpaid in 2011, according to previous reports.

The estimate of unpaid taxes discussed during the Wednesday workshop applies only to the city.

Delinquent property taxes for all Northumberland County municipalities are pursued by the county tax claims office.

Councilman Mike Snyder, who was wary of the effect of the proposed pilot program, suggested the city first compare the 10th Ward's collection rate to that of other city wards to ensure it would be effective there. He also suggested the collections firm consider performing the pilot program in the city ward with the highest rate of tax delinquency.

Bartos said he would relay the suggestions to the collections firm.

Councilman Bill Milbrand supports the idea, he said, especially if it gets results.

WILLIAMSPORT - Notice was filed in federal court here late Tuesday afternoon that Kymberley Best's lawsuit against Northumberland County, a commissioner and former commissioner has been settled with the aid of a mediator.

The filing says a mediation conference was held Tuesday.

The notice provides no details, and U.S. District Court Judge Yvette Kane still must officially close the case. No further filings were made by the close of court business Wednesday.

Best filed suit in May 2011 following her termination as assistant county solicitor and chief clerk.

On Oct. 27, she filed a second amended complaint that reinstated allegations of sexual discrimination and harassment and retaliatory firing against Northumberland County Commissioner Vinny Clausi and former Commissioner Merle Phillips.

In the second amended complaint, Best reiterates her previous claims of Clausi treating her in a hostile, demeaning and intimidating manner. She claimed the commissioner deliberately and violently knocked papers off her conference table, followed her around the office, commented on her clothing and hair and ordered an employee to follow her to catch her doing something wrong.

The amended complaint claims Clausi encouraged the firing of Best at a meeting on March 15, 2011. The complaint states Best's firing by Clausi and Phillips took effect March 18, 2011.

During the meeting on March 15, Best said the county was beset with poor employer/employee relations that were resulting in costly lawsuits due to arbitrary terminations and bad press. In her capacity as a private citizen, Best said she proposed a code of civility as a way to restore the public image of county government, increase the effectiveness of local government and avoid costly lawsuits in the future.

In the lawsuit, Best said Clausi accused her of being late to work and, while standing over her desk "in an intimidating and threatening manner," said, "Go ahead and sue me. I can take care of you for 10 cents. That's the cost of a bullet."

The Democratic commissioner was also accused of making lewd sexual remarks, detailed in a 13-point complaint filed with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) at the same time as the lawsuit. They included comments about how she dressed, her hair, his sexual abilities and whether or not she looked "hot," according to the complaint.

Clausi at the time called Best a "pathological liar" and that the timing of the complaints less than a week before an election was intended to hinder his re-election.

In September 2011, Best withdrew the unlawful termination counts, citing Pennsylvania court decisions that have found county commissioners are entitled to absolute immunity from suit as "high public officials."

In December of that same year, she was forced to file an amended complaint to resolve problems cited by Kane. In the new filing, Best added allegations that Clausi repeatedly made false claims that she had sex on the job with her close friend, Attorney Timothy Bowers.

Clausi and Phillips responded a month later with a request for dismissal, citing immunity.

In July 2012, U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas M. Blewitt recommended part of Best's free speech claim, which alleged retaliation by Clausi and Phillips, remain. He said her amended complaint had provided enough facts to support her claim, something Kane had said was lacking initially. The judge also recommended part of a whistleblower claim survive along with a limited right to seek compensatory and punitive damages.

A month later, Kane adopted recommendations made by Blewitt that dismissed due process, equal pay, conspiracy, wrongful termination and state whistleblower claims. She agreed that Best had failed to prove Clausi made statements about her sexual relationship with Bowers.

Remaining in the suit were Best's free speech claims that allege retaliation and the part of the whistleblower claim that deals with her reports of deficient air quality in the register and recorder's office and danger from a glass dome.

It was following the August ruling that Best filed her second amended complaint in October.

SUNBURY - Northumberland County Commissioner Vinny Clausi believes an ideal site for a new county prison would be next to the State Correctional Institution at Coal Township near the village of Tharptown.

During Wednesday's prison board meeting, Clausi reiterated his support for a new prison, stating the current 137-year-old jail is not only outdated, but is contributing to lawsuits that could cost the county millions of dollars.

He recommended constructing a new prison and also a pre-release center near SCI-Coal Township because the infrastructure is already in place in that area. He said the land, known as Brush Valley, is owned by Aqua Pennsylvania.

That area was considered for a second state prison and, around 2000, for a federal prison, but the plans drew considerable opposition because of the aesthetic value of the forested tract and the water sources located there.

None of the seven prison board members objected to the consideration of a new prison, but most said they believe a long-range plan should be developed first.

Clausi recommended building a 600-cell prison and pre-release center at a cost of approximately $60 million or a 300-cell jail and the pre-release center at a cost of approximately $30 million.

The commissioner said he and President Judge Robert B. Sacavage have met with U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta, R-11, to discuss funding sources and other ideas pertaining to a new facility.

District Attorney Tony Rosini believes the process should slow down.

"Spending $60 million is way beyond the debt you want to place on the county; I'm not in favor of building a new prison at this time," he said. "I think we need a 10-year plan."

Rosini also disagreed with Clausi's claim that once a new prison is built, it could become self-sustaining by housing prisoners from out of the county, including undocumented immigrants.

"There's not a prison in this country that is self-sustaining," Rosini said. "It's a pipe dream to think immigrants are going to pay to maintain a new prison."

As to Clausi's contention that lawsuits are being caused by the age and deteriorating conditions of the current prison, Rosini said it instead has do with "employees being accused of not treating inmates properly."

Clausi replied, "Don't play this stupid game and say we don't need a prison. It's time for a new prison to come to Northumberland County."

Plan now

Commissioner Stephen Bridy, prison board chairman, said he's against wasting taxpayers' dollars, but realizes a new prison is needed. "We need to start planning now because the current prison is at the end of its life cycle," he said.

Sacavage, Commissioner Richard Shoch and Warden Roy Johnson agreed a new prison is needed and voiced their support to move forward by developing a plan and forming a committee. But they said the proper channels must be followed and a hasty decision avoided.

Clausi, who claimed it will cost the county "double" if a decision is delayed, was satisfied by the end of the meeting that everyone at least agreed to study the issue.

Sacavage said prison board members can provide input, but the decision to build a new facility rests with the county commissioners.

Last month, Clausi said if a federal judge stepped in and closed the prison, it would cost the county more than $7 million a year to transport inmates to other facilities.

It was less than a year ago that the county settled a federal lawsuit with the Lewisburg Prison Project, a nonprofit inmate advocacy group, on behalf of inmates who complained of inadequate health care and unsafe housing conditions. Last month, a $1.6 million federal lawsuit was filed by eight inmates against administrators and correctional officers claiming inhumane conditions, but also racial discrimination, retaliation and cruel and unusual punishment.

PAXINOS - Three new vendors at Wednesday's job fair at Masser's Banquet Hall represented the wide variety of businesses looking for new employees or at least to market their brands.

Sunbury Motor Co. participated for the first time in anticipation of opening a Quick Lane service center at the former Sam Bressi Motors lot along Route 61 just east of Shamokin, said Michael DeFeo, marketing director.

DeFeo was chatting with applicants about positions in automotive repair and detailing while 260 people came through the doors.

"Being at an event like this is great exposure for Sunbury Motors, and it's a good event to support the chamber in their endeavors," DeFeo said.

He said he couldn't provide specifics on when the Quick Lane might open.

DeFeo and Harry's Grill owner Barb Kearns, another newcomer, also used Wednesday's job fair to talk and network with other businesses.

"You learn good marketing ideas and can connect with others and get your name out there," Kearns said. "It's a great event."

The third new participant, Safety Net Counseling, Mount Carmel, was searching for those with master's degrees to take therapist and behavior specialist positions.

"Right now, we have nothing in the entry-level area," said Cheryl Dressler.

She said since most of the funding for Safety Net comes from managed care outlets that are heavily regulated, staffing needs are more specialized.

'Steady stream'

At times, several people waited for an open chair to complete applications at the job fair, which was hosted by Pa. CareerLink Northumberland/Union/Snyder counties and the Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by McCann School of Business.

"It's been a steady stream today," said chamber director Sandy Winhofer. With the same number of vendors as last year, "it's another good outing," she said.

Vendors ranged from transportation companies and local warehouses to temporary staffing agencies and manufacturers.

The atmosphere among vendors was more cooperative than competitive. If someone was interested in driving trucks for Reinhart FoodService or Milton Transportation but didn't have the right training, they were sent to the table for Sage Truck Driving Schools, which offers CDL training. Sage, in turn, forwarded prospective employees to PHEAA, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, for information on education funding.

Education angle

Education, in fact, was a big part of the job fair and was represented by McCann, Triangle Tech and Luzerne County Community College (LCCC).

"In today's market, careers require some sort of degree or 60 hours of college credits," said Nicole Edmondson, director of LCCC's Northumberland Regional Higher Education Center. "That's why we are here."

"Education is the step to getting the better paying job you want and the career you are seeking," said PHEAA representative Marla Kane.

Retirement openings

Many of the employers said their staffing levels over the past few years have remained steady, but recent changes brought at least one firm to Wednesday's event.

"We've been very good about retaining our employees," said Sandra Hause, human resources specialist for International Paper's Mount Carmel facility. "Right now, we have some workers that have been there between 45 to 48 years and are now retiring, so we need to find good folks to replace them, and this has been a good event to get applications from them."

Other businesses and agencies taking part were, PA CareerLink, National Ticket Company, the U.S. Army, CSIU WATCH Program, HH Knoebels Sons Inc., PA State Civil Service Commission, Geisinger Health System, CSO Community Action Agency, Clear Channel, Strong Industries, Experience Works, Aerotek, Hope Enterprises, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Sundance Vacations, Manpower and Central Pennsylvania Workforce Development Corporation.

SHAMOKIN - City council adopted a resolution Wednesday that would allow Shamokin to receive any potential state or federal reimbursement of demolition costs stemming from the tear-down of a partially collapsed building on North Shamokin Street.

The resolution was a procedural move in the event the city would opt to take out a loan to pay an estimated $125,000 in expenses for the demolition and debris removal at 709-715 N. Shamokin St. A loan was not voted on or approved as part of the resolution.

Steve Bartos, city clerk, said during the special meeting held prior to the council's monthly workshop that the city is working with federal Housing and Urban Development and state Department of Community and Economic Development toward obtaining some type of reimbursement for the project.

No guarantees have been made by either agency, and bill collectors have regularly been calling City Hall for payment.

The city ordered the emergency demolition of the former Shamokin Health Spa after it partially collapsed in mid-June. Work was completed in December after multiple delays.

Invoices nearing $102,000 were approved by council in January, an approval said to be contingent on the receipt of state grant funding, but the resolution approved Wednesday anticipates the total cost to exceed $125,000.

Also unsettled is a pending lawsuit in county court between the city and the initial contractor on the job, Robert Gusick Demolition, which is seeking payment of its $98,500 invoice plus interest.

Gusick began demolishing the building and hauling away debris in mid-June but was off the job by month's end after a dispute began with city officials over the project's scope.

Grant application

City council voted to approve a $250,000 grant application to the state for the second phase of renovations in and around Claude Kehler Community Park.

If approved, the city must match the entire award. Bartos said the work could be stretched out over two years, and that matching funding could come from annual Community Development Block Grant money and the city's recreation tax account.

The city's proposal seeks to develop the plot of land off Walnut Street behind the former Coal Hole building, across the Shamokin Creek channel from Kehler Park.

Trees and grass would be planted in that section, and walking paths with lighting and benches would be installed. Other vegetation would be planned throughout the existing park. A pair of foot bridges are proposed linking the proposed public park expansion both to Kehler Park on Arch Street, near the bandstand, and to a parking area along Third Street. Permeable paved parking sections are planned for the expansion and for Third Street.

Councilman Bill Milbrand noted that the plot of land across from Kehler Park, on which the former city warehouse once stood, had been deemed contaminated. Testing by state Department of Environmental Protection had found gasoline in the groundwater.

According to Bartos, DEP ruled that an environmental remediation at the site would only be necessary if a permanent structure were built there. The proposed park project, even with planned pavilions, would not require remediation.

Tom Grbenick, of SEDA-COG, was contracted Wednesday at a cost of no more than $4,000 to write the grant for the project. That funding will come from the recreation tax account.

Grbenick said the proposal remains just that for now. There are no guarantees that the project will become reality as the application for limited grant funding from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will be highly competitive.

DCNR had initially awarded Shamokin an approximate $200,000 grant for the initial upgrades at Kehler Park, completed last year.

In other business, city council approved 144 E. Lincoln St. as tax-exempt. The building was donated to Northumberland County Council for the Arts and Humanities and is now known as known as the Kallaway Center for the Arts, named after its donor.

SUNBURY - Members of Northumberland County Prison Board said they are satisfied with a report submitted Wednesday by top officials from PrimeCare Medical Inc. that addresses various concerns with their service, including allegations by two former employees of not properly treating inmates at the prison.

The internal investigation report was discussed during a 75-minute executive session in the law library at the 137-year-old prison, but specifics were not revealed when the prison board meeting reconvened.

When questioned after the two-hour meeting, Thomas J. Weber, an attorney representing PrimeCare, said allegations made against the correctional healthcare company are "baseless." He said healthcare improvements have been made at the prison since the company was hired. He also said PrimeCare has passed all its inspections, including those conducted by the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare.

MRSA

Dr. Carl Hoffman, president and corporate medical director with PrimeCare, said there was no discussion by prison board members during the executive session over retaining or curtailing their healthcare services at the prison.

Hoffman and Todd W. Hastings, vice president of operations with PrimeCare, confirmed that there have been cases of MRSA at Northumberland County Prison, which are common in prisons, hospitals and nursing homes. They said the number of cases found in the Sunbury prison are slightly lower than other institutions.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an infection with a specific type of bacteria. MRSA is different from a regular staph infection in that the bacteria are impervious to the effects of antibiotics like penicillin and methicillin. Thus, once a diagnosis has been confirmed, additional tests are needed to determine what antibiotics may be useful in treating the disease.

MRSA was once primarily confined to healthcare settings, like hospitals and nursing homes. However, it is now quite common in the community at large, making the disease a serious concern for public health officials.

Hoffman added, "There's always been MRSA in prisons and healthcare settings. There's MRSA at Geisinger Medical Center and schools. But it's no worse than before."

PrimeCare officials, who totaled 10 at the meeting, agreed to make county sheriff department employees aware of any prisoners afflicted with MRSA so they can take necessary precautions when transporting them to and from the prison.

Outside agency

Hastings said PrimeCare officials addressed various concerns with prison board members during the executive session. He said county officials were satisfied with their response to the allegations and other findings contained in their report.

Commissioner Stephen Bridy, chairman of the prison board, said, "PrimeCare addressed every issue we had in its report, including the allegations made against it by former employees."

Although he failed to gain a second on his motion at the beginning of the meeting to discuss some of the issues in the report in public, Commissioner Vinny Clausi said he was OK with the responses offered by PrimeCare, but warned that if any of their findings are proved to be untrue, "there will be problems."

Commissioner Richard Shoch said he was satisfied with PrimeCare's findings at this point.

Julie Miller, who claims a relative's health was adversely affected by PrimeCare when he was in the county prison, urged the prison board to hire an outside agency to conduct an investigation into PrimeCare.

Miller said she has documentation supporting her claims against PrimeCare.

The Sunbury woman, who started crying toward the end of her comments, said she has complained to the county commissioners and PrimeCare employees in the past about how her relative was treated, but received no satisfaction.

Dave Sprout, a paralegal with the Lewisburg Prison Project, a nonprofit inmate advocacy group, told The News-Item his group has sent letters to the state Department of Health and Department of Corrections requesting an independent agency to conduct an investigation into PrimeCare to determine if any of the allegations leveled against it are true.

Somerset County

PrimeCare, which is based in Harrisburg, is no stranger to the allegations being made in Northumberland County.

They are similar to what Somerset County Commissioner Joe Betta claims has been happening at the county jail in that southwestern Pennsylvania county, where an investigation is taking place.

Also, in 2006, The Morning Call of Allentown published an extensive investigative article entitled "Is Quality of Prison Health Care in Jeopardy?" that includes details of a number of lawsuits involving PrimeCare, including 16 in Northampton County alone.

In Northumberland County, the commissioners and PrimeCare administration acknowledged last month the company would be investigating the allegations, which were initially made anonymously by two former employees to The Daily Item. The News-Item confirmed the names of the two workers; one had been fired and one resigned citing the allegations.

They claimed in their interview with The Daily Item that inmates were not treated in a timely manner; that medicines would run out and inmates would have to wait up to a week for refills; that medical records and charges included untrue statements to make the provider look more professional than it was, and that documented reports of inadequate treatment or misconduct by supervisors were ignored.

PrimeCare, which has defended its reputation, has been providing medical services to Somerset County since 2004. The latest three-year $500,000 annual contract ended Dec. 31, and the commissioners and PrimeCare agreed to operate on a month-to-month contract until the investigation ends.

Somerset County Jail has capacity for approximately 100 inmates and has at least 40 employees. PrimeCare employs four full-time nurses, a supervisor and several nurses at the prison.

Betta, who has been approached by former and current prison employees and former and current employees of PrimeCare who worked at the jail, was instructed by his own board of commissioners, district attorney and president judge to turn over the testimonies to Somerset Borough Police.

Betta said he was first approached by a former PrimeCare employee in October about the alleged mistreatment of inmates, but he was not satisfied with the results of an internal investigation by PrimeCare that turned up "no significant findings."

He started taking statements from several inmates, five correctional officers and four former nurses about the mistreatment of inmates, a hostile work environment, sexual harassment and falsified records and time sheets.

"I am convinced these are not former disgruntled employees, but they left on their own because they did not want to partake in the falsification of the records and mishandling of narcotics," Betta said.

Employees told him that they were too scared to talk for fear of losing their jobs, he said.

A former PrimeCare nurse at Somerset County Jail contacted The News-Item last month and agreed to provide comments on the condition of anonymity. Her former employment status was confirmed by Betta.

"They say we are disgruntled workers. No, we are not. We are honest, caring nurses," she said. "The truth needs to come out. People's lives are at stake."

She agreed with Betta, saying the alleged treatment of Northumberland County inmates sounds like the experiences she witnessed.

She cited a lawsuit filed last year by inmate Ronald D. Sever, 48, as an example.

Sever is seeking $50 million in damages for cruel and unusual punishment for being refused treatment after a noxious spider bite. While Dan Rullo, the Somerset County solicitor, has called Sever's claims "fantasy" in the media, the unidentified nurse said the inmate isn't lying. She said her frequent requests for the man to be taken to the hospital to be treated by a doctor were ignored.

She was told by several prison guards that she was the only one who would do her job at the prison, and that many inmates were shocked when she treated them.

PrimeCare has "total indifference" to inmates' needs, she said.

Last month, the prison board gave Betta notice to cease and desist his investigation, and the president judge of the county told him he was a "security risk" and could no longer meet with anyone inside the jail. He could, however, meet with anyone outside the facility.

PrimeCare is described on its website as a privately owned, nationally accredited, correctional health care company that provides medical services to approximately 18,000 inmates in juvenile correctional facilities, jails and prisons throughout the northeastern U.S., including at least half of Pennsylvania's 67 counties.

Food pantry distribution is Saturday

ATLAS - The Mount Carmel Township Food Pantry will hold its monthly distribution from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the township complex. Residents in Atlas, Diamondtown, Strong, Locust Gap, Connorsville, Dooleyville and Beaverdale who signed up previously are eligible.

Culver announces outreach events

Rep. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-108) will host satellite office hours at the Herndon Borough Municipal Building, 278 N. Main St., Herndon, from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 11. Culver or a member of her staff will be on hand to answer any state-related questions.

The representative will also host a senior forum at 5:30 p.m. April 11 in the ground floor conference room of the Sunbury Community Hospital. Speakers at this year's forum include Barbara Aucker from Sunbury Community Hospital, Williamsport elder law attorney Eric Ladley, Patricia Rumberger from the Northumberland County Area Agency on Aging and Matt Burrows from the Pennsylvania State Police.

A representative from the Bucknell Small Business Development Center will be at Culver's Sunbury office from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 12. Individuals interested in setting up an appointment should www.bucknell.edu/SBDC and click on the "Request our Services today" link in the upper right corner, or call 577-1249 and indicate they are making an appointment in Culver's office for April 12.

SHAMOKIN DAM - There is an exit sign at last on the long highway to the Central Susquehanna Valley Thruway.

State Sen. John R. Gordner (R-27), with state Department of Transportation (PennDOT) officials and state legislators, announced Wednesday morning at the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce office that the state government is expected to commit $558 million toward the massive project as part of the Corbett administration's "Decade of Investment" plan that targets $1.8 billion within five years toward highways, bridges and mass transit.

The area will "finally, finally, finally" see the project constructed, Gordner said, with a goal of alleviating congestion on the Routes 11-15 "strip" north of Selinsgrove.

As the largest single project in the "Decade of Investment," the thruway will be funded through $150 million from the federal Appalachian Regional Commission, and the remaining $408 million will come from the Motor License Fund, which gets its money from the state gasoline tax, motor vehicle license and registration fees and other fees. The governor would increase the revenue by gradually lifting the cap on the state Oil Company Franchise Tax over five years.

However, said Gordner, there may be other funding streams before the plan is finalized.

The state senator was joined by PennDOT Secretary Barry Schoch, PennDOT District 3-0 District Executive Sandra Tosca and a thruway delegation consisting of Gene Yaw (R-23) and state Reps. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-108), Garth Everett (R-84), Fred Keller (R-85) and Kurt Masser (R-107).

Gordner compared the process of reaching this "historic" announcement to participating in the Berwick Run For The Diamonds marathon, which is known for having a 1.2-mile hill with its final apex hidden to runners by a series of curves.

"Sometimes when you set off on an activity or you set off on a project, it is like a long course. It may be a 40-year course," Gordner said. "There are lots of turns and zigs and zags, and it seems like you're always, always, always going up hill."

The project has seen many "turns and movements and stops and hibernations," he said, referencing a term used in July 2008 when PennDOT indefinitely put the project on hold.

Approval still needed

While the plan must be approved as part of the 2013-14 state budget by July, Gordner said he wouldn't have called a press conference to make the announcement without the confidence that it will be approved.

The "Decade of Investment" PennDOT budget bill must make its way through the legislative committees, through the House and Senate and onto the governor's desk to be signed, Schoch said.

"When we do, we will move aggressively," he said.

Tosca explained she would be assembling a team to develop a financial plan in anticipation of approval in July, which will need also federal approval from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) because of the federal funds from the Appalachian Regional Commission.

After FHWA approval, which is expected by October, Tosca said the next step is to obtain permits, acquire rights-of-way, relocate utilities and prepare for construction.

The first contract, for which bids could be accepted by April 2015, would be for the $160 million bridge across the west branch of the Susquehanna River linking Route 15 in Winfield with Route 147 north of Northumberland, she said.

The next phase of the project would be to construct the 6-mile northern section where the four lanes end on Route 147. On the other side of the river, the project will continue through West Chillisquaque Township into Shamokin Dam, where it will connect with Routes 11-15.

Once the northern section is complete, it will be opened for use, she said.

Once the northern section of the project is built, the next phase of the project would be to complete the 7-mile southern portion. The southern portion runs parallel to the current Routes 11-15 toward Selinsgrove and connects to Route 11-15 again at what is now the northern terminus of the Selinsgrove bypass.

The last phase of the project is to connect Route 61 from Sunbury to the thruway in Shamokin Dam.

While this is a 10-year project, Tosca said officials are working to expedite the schedule.

The plan is not only about revenue, but also about ensuring that every dollar spent is used wisely and efficiently, Schoch said.

PennDOT will soon release a list of other projects that are part of the "Decade of Investment" on its website, which will include details and video about each project, Schoch said.

"What you care about is delivering projects like this as quickly as we can," he said.

'Important'

Schoch said the project is important to the economy, safety and lifestyle of the area surrounding Routes 11-15 and Pennsylvania as a whole.

"When you're sitting in traffic on a daily basis and congestion, that's not supporting your lifestyle. When you're waiting and you don't know how long it's going to take to get home, that's not supporting your lifestyle," he said.

A project like this provides dependable travel times and prevents the loss of businesses that relocate because of the difficulty getting in and out of the region, Schoch said.

Shamokin Dam Mayor Joe McGranaghan, who has also served as the thruway project task force chairman, said it's been a "long and somewhat tortured" path to arrive here.

He said the business communities are in a "state of panic" due to the amount of time - sometimes an hour - it takes for people to travel between Northumberland and Shamokin Dam.

Although spending money in today's economic climate is tough, McGranaghan said it's a move that has to be made.

"The long range implications of doing nothing are far too horrendous," he said.

'Exciting'

Following the press conference, Culver said the announcement is exciting after years of being part of the process.

"We're not finished, though. There's a lot to be considered between now and the budget," she said. "First and foremost, it will deal with the safety of our residents, and the economic development we will receive is much needed for this area."

Masser said his constituents use Routes 11-15 frequently to travel to work as far away as Harrisburg.

"It's exciting to see it finally getting across the finish line and to see light at the end of the tunnel," he said.

LEWISBURG - Donald E. Pease, 82, of Gorham, N.Y., was identified Wednesday as the driver accused of causing a fatal accident Sunday on Route 15.

He was misidentified as 81-year-old Edward Peace in a police report previously issued by state police at Milton.

Ellen Marie Kear, 35, of Turbotville, was pronounced dead at the scene by Union County Coroner Wanda Walters. Kear was thrown from her vehicle after Peace's car struck it head-on and ultimately landed on top of her.

Police say Pease was driving a 2009 Cadillac DTS on the wrong side of the road about 9 p.m. in Kelly Township, Union County, when the crash occurred at the intersection with AJK Boulevard, about three miles north of Lewisburg.

Pease reportedly ran a red light and sideswiped a 2004 Pontiac Vibe driven by Jeffrey M. DiChristopher, 30, of Cheektowaga, N.Y., then collided head-on with Kear's vehicle, pushing it into the front a 2007 Subaru Outback driven by Amy A. Gallant, 55, of Wellsboro.

Police said the victims' vehicles were stopped for a red light at the intersection.

Terry P. Neuhard, 74, of Milton, who was driving a 2009 Ford Edge, tried to avoid the wreck but was struck by the Outback, police said.

Pease was treated and released from Evangelical Community Hospital. No other drivers or passengers were injured.

It remains unclear if charges will be filed.

BLOOMSBURG - Two former members of the Bloomsburg University field hockey team were sentenced in Columbia County Court to serve short prison sentences for beating another woman in the street during the university's 2011 homecoming.

According to the Press Enterprise, President Judge Thomas James Jr. sentenced Lauren McGinley, 22, of Wilkes-Barre, to serve 10 days in jail, and Nicole Bruce, 21, of Clifford, Susquehanna County, to serve three days. They were convicted of assault and harassment in a jury trial in January.

The victim was Ashley Ann Carsia, now 25 and a kindergarten teacher, who was a graduate student at the time of the assault. She had been seen dancing in a bar with a wrestler who was dating Bruce.

McGinley and Bruce, previously expelled from Bloomsburg following their arrests, have transferred to other state universities, McGinley to West Chester University and Bruce to Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following hearings took place Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones. Defendants ordered to appear for plea court May 13 in Northumberland County Court, Sunbury, can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Richard W. Kramer, 35, of 231 S. Walnut St., Mount Carmel, waived to court charges of theft and receiving stolen property.

Kramer was charged by Mount Carmel Patrolman William Adamski with stealing copper tubing, oil and wire valued at $297.82 from Visintainer's Motel at 50 W. Fourth St. between July 1 and Feb. 8.

n Peter A. Plum III, 44, of 143 E. Avenue, Mount Carmel, waived to court charges of recklessly endangering another person and corruption of minors relating to a March 7 incident in the 100 block of West Fourth Street.

Mount Carmel Patrolman Justin Stelma, who filed the charges, reported Plum provided marijuana to a 14-year-old female who became sick and confused and experienced extreme headaches. The teen underwent emergency room treatment at Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital.

n Justin W. Cressinger, 25, of Berwick, waived to court charges of burglary, criminal trespass, theft and receiving stolen property.

According to a criminal complaint filed by Ralpho Township Patrolman Christopher Grow, Cressinger allegedly entered the residence of Art Hower, of 66 Circle View Drive, Elysburg, and stole a sweatshirt, a pair of Wolverine boots, a flashlight and a pair of camouflage pants. Police said the burglary occurred between Nov. 1 and 3.

n Cassie N. Beers, 19, of New Columbia, waived to court charges of theft, receiving stolen property and possession of Oxycontin.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Matthew Filarski.

Police reported Beers stole approximately 20 Oxycontin pills belonging to Randy Swavely from his residence at 819 W. Sixth St. on March 26.

INDIANA, Pa. - Corrine Filipczak, of Marion Heights, a criminology major at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, served as a volunteer for the 2013 National History Day regional competition at IUP.

Close to 200 students from Indiana County and five neighboring counties displayed their research, including historical papers, documentaries, websites and performances, to be judged by faculty members and students at IUP.

Filipczak is a daughter of Melinda and Pat Filipczak and a 2009 graduate of Mount Carmel Area Junior-Senior High School.

Shamokin banner deadline today

SHAMOKIN - Today is the deadline for those wanting to purchase a banner as part of the Citizens for a Better Community (CBC) Hometown Heroes Banners project.

Call Angie Arnold at 648-6294 to order.

CBC plans to have the 2-by-4-foot banners on light poles in time for Memorial Day.

They can be purchased by family members or businesses and will include the name and photo of the person, their rank and branch of service, any foreign wars they fought in, and the name of the person or business who purchased the banner. Cost is $200.

The banners will fly until around Thanksgiving. After they are taken down, owners can take possession or have them flown again in successive years for $50 each time.

Safety project starts Monday

DANVILLE - A $644,850 safety improvement project along a section of Route 54 is set to start next week.

The safety improvements will extend the acceleration and turning lanes along Route 54 from just north of Montour Street to Route 11. The work will also include placing new drainage inlets, new concrete median and resurfacing of the existing roadway.

Prime contractor, HRI, Inc. will implement lane closures, one in each direction, on Monday. Use caution when entering the construction zone. Traffic patterns will change as the work progresses. This area has heavy traffic volumes; expect delays throughout the project.

The work under this project is scheduled to be completed and all lanes open to unrestricted traffic by July 17.

Drainage improvement scheduled

SHAMOKIN TOWNSHIP - A PennDOT maintenance crew is scheduled to replace a large cross pipe beneath Hollow Road starting in two weeks.

The work will take place between Route 61 and Schoolhouse Road to replace an older metal pipe with new pipe, which will improve drainage beneath the roadway surface.

Hollow Road will be closed daily from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. starting on Wednesday, April 17. This work will take two to three days to complete. A red-arrow detour will be in effect using Route 61, Irish Valley Road and School House Road. School buses will be accommodated, if possible, while the work zone is active.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Below is the street sweeping schedule for the week of April 8.

West End

Monday: North side of Lynn Street from Ash Street to Jackson Street, in the morning; south side of Lynn Street from Ash Street to Jackson Street in the afternoon.

Tuesday: Both sides of Chestnut Street from First Street to Maple Street in the morning; both sides of Oak Street from Arch Street to Spruce Street in the afternoon.

Wednesday: North side of Spruce Street from First Street to Ash Street in the morning; south side of Spruce Street from First Street to Ash Street in the afternoon.

Thursday: North side of Mulberry Street from First Street to Locust Street in the morning; south side of Mulberry Street from First Street to Locust Street in the afternoon.

Friday: North side of Mulberry Street from Locust Street to Jackson Street in the morning; south side of Mulberry Street from Locust Street to Jackson Street in the afternoon.

East End

Monday: South side of Wabash Street from Howard Street to Meade Street in the morning; north side of Wabash Street from Howard Street to Meade Street in the afternoon.

Tuesday: South side of Mohawk Street from Sherman Street to Thomas Street in the morning; north side of Mohawk Street from Sherman Street to Thomas Street in the afternoon.

Wednesday: Both sides of Chemung Street from Howard Street to Hunter Street in the morning.

Thursday: Both sides of Webster Street from Hunter Street to Tioga Street in the morning.

Friday: Both sides of Main Street in Brady in the morning and afternoon.

KULPMONT - Nicholas P. Goretski III is a candidate for Kulpmont Borough mayor.

Goretski, 59, is married to the former Cynthia Rossi for 35 years this August. He has three adult children, Nicholas IV, Rachel and Julia.

His son, Nicholas, is married to Tara Kozel, an elementary school teacher in Hazleton. Julia is married to Robert Bogutskie, and Rachel will be wed to Carl Starkoski this August. Both Robert and Carl are members of the Heavy and Highway Construction Workers Labor Local Union 158.

Nick worked 15 years in construction for Plumbers, Pipefitters and Welding Local Union 520. He was injured on the job and became disabled. Instead of staying on disability, he worked as state Rep. Robert Belfanti's adminstrative assistant for 22 years.

Goretski previously served three terms on Kulpmont Borough Council and was elected mayor in 1994.

As mayor, he pushed to restore Roosevelt Court, which has receved several awards from state and federal governments for its use as a senior citizen complex to cover the cost of a nursing school and other medical programs, at no cost to the taxpayers. It is now also the home of Geisinger Medical Center's LIFE program.

Goretski said that as a result of the years spent working with Belfanti, he was able to acquire state and federal grants, including $60,000 plus for the borough's police force and two new buildings for the Mike Terry and Ralph Miriello sports complex - a concession stand and a field house. He also worked on getting housing grants jointly with other neighboring communities, for residents to refurbish their homes.

Goretski has served as a member and chairman of the Northumberland County Housing Authority. During Gov. Ed Rendell's term, he was appointed to the Governor's Advisory Board for Fish, Game and Conservation. As vice president of the Easten Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandonded Mine Reclamation, he was one of the founders of the Shamokin Creek Restoration Alliance, which is cleaning local streams and waterways.

He has also served on the joint sewer authority, is a life member of the East End Fire Company and the Jan Sobieski Club, and is a Fourth Degree knight in the Knights of Columbus.

Most recently, Goretsko was appointed to SEDA-COG, a public organization which deals with issues related to economic development, community life and the environment.

"Our country in general is at a tough time in its history," Goretski said. "Wars, terrorists, natural disasters, but worst of all, our young being gunned down. These children are our assets of the future. Even our faiths have been challenged by the corruption of our children by their peers. Now is the time we need to bring our community together, working with one another. Each step we take is a step forward to improve our quality of life. No one person can do it, but together we can succeed. No false promises just cooperation and action. As public leaders, we must listen to those who put us in office. If you support me, I will listen and work to make Kulpmont a community you can be proud of and dedicate my time to all its residents," he said.

MOUNT CARMEL - Philip "Bing" Cimino has announced his candidacy for mayor of Mount Carmel Borough. A registered Democrat, Philip is also asking for the support of Republicans through write-in votes.

Cimino previously served on Mount Carmel Borough Council for two terms, including as vice president and president.

Cimino's said his commitment to the community helped in advancing recreational improvements, beginning with volunteerism to help construct the Sixth Street Tot Lot, which saved the borough money.

Cimino said when people describe being mayor as a "thankless job," his response is, "If you need to be thanked for everything you do, you are in it for the wrong reasons."

If elected, Cimino said he work with the citizens, code enforcement, council and fire and police departments to provide a cleaner and safer environment. He promised to walk throughout the borough and provide an open door policy to discuss problems and work together to solve them.

A lifelong resident of Mount Carmel, Cimino graduated from Mount Carmel Area High School and Northumberland County Vocational-Technical School. Serving more than 8 1/2 years in the U.S. Air Force, he was honorably discharged with the rank of staff sergeant. During his military service, he worked on aircraft armament systems and later working with wideband communications/security systems. While in the Air Force, he received two associate degrees, one for electronic technology and the other for aircraft armament systems.

Cimino has been employed as an electromechanical instructor at Schuylkill Technology Center in Frackville for 23 years. He teaches high school and adult students a trade for their future and life skills.

Cimino earned his electromechanical teaching certification and master's equivalency from Temple University. As valedictorian of his class, he received his bachelor's degree from Penn State University in workforce education and development and certifications in cooperative education and electronics.

A life member of the Clover Hose Company, Cimino serves as a house committee member, and is actively involved in annual Clover Hose holiday and community events. For the past 11 years, he has helped arrange the 9/11 memorial service sponsored by the company. He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans.

He serves as lieutenant for the Clover Hose Company, vice president of the Mount Carmel Fire Department, member and liaison with the fire police and a delegate to the Anthracite Firemen's Relief Association.

Previously, he served on the Mount Carmel Recreation Board, volunteered as an assistant coach for the Mount Carmel Jets football team and has served as a mentor with high school students for F.I.R.S.T. Robotic Competition Teams for designing, building and competing with robots at regional and national events. He is an assistant coach for the Clover Hose Junior Baseball team.

His hobbies include model railroading, working on classic and antique vehicles and attending car shows.

Cimino, who attends the Church of Our Lady in Mount Carmel, is a son of Mary and the late Samuel Cimino Sr. He is married to Charmange Cimino. He has two daughters, Florida and Phylicia, two stepchildren, Zachariah and Sarah Shuder, and three grandsons, Trevor, Chase and Dylan Shuder.

Cimino said he strives to show everyone "CPR," something he read on an New York City police cruiser and instills this in his students - courtesy, professionalism and respect.

LORETTO - Joseph Klebon of Paxinos has attained dean's list honors for the fall semester at Saint Francis University.

Klebon, a junior who is majoring in physical therapy, earned a 3.75 grade-point average.

Klebon, a 2010 graduate of Southern Columbia Area High School, is a son of Joseph and Barbara Klebon, 156 Butler Road, Paxinos, and a grandson of Joseph Klebon, Tharptown, and Francis and Gloria Kwiatkowski, Atlas.

SUNBURY - Funding for state conservation districts is expected to increase by more than $2 million over the next three years, state Sen. John R. Gordner (R-27) told those attending the Northumberland County Conservation District (NCCD) Legislative Luncheon Thursday.

Gov. Tom Corbett's proposed budget and the impact on conservation efforts was the focus of much of the annual gathering, held at the district headquarters along Plum Creek Road in Rockefeller Township and attended by about 25 people.

The budget calls for the elimination of this fiscal year's $2.8 million allocation to state conservation districts, which concerned many people, including Judy Becker, NCCD manager.

While Gordner said he is not "optimistic" the districts' separate line item funding would return due to negative projections for the second half of the fiscal year, he said there would be an additional $2.6 million by fiscal year 2015-16 from Act 13 natural gas drilling impact fees.

Furthermore, he said, each district would be eligible for additional funding based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which means they would be compensated for changes in the price of consumer goods and services purchased by the district.

State Rep. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-108) noted later in the meeting that such a move shows the state "has great faith in you."

"We don't do that for very many people," she said.

Becker thanked the three legislators - Gordner, Culver and state Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107) - for supporting the conservation districts.

"We greatly appreciate you. We realize funding is limited," she said.

'County still supports us'

Gordner explained that fiscal year 2012-13 is the only budget that will include both the line item funding and the impact fees, which allowed a total of $6.3 million to go to conservation districts across the state.

Last fall, $2.5 million in Act 13 monies was available. Of that amount, $1.25 million was divided equally between the 66 county conservation districts in the amount of $18,939 and $1.25 million was directed to the State Conservation Commission, which used 50 percent of the money to divide equally to the districts in the amount of $9,469.

It is expected for the upcoming 2013-14 budget, which will be the first budget without the line item, that the total funding from the impact fees will be less than the previous year, at a total of $5 million. If the distribution follows the previous year, each districts will receive $38,000 each by July 1, 2013, from the PUC and $19,000 from the commission.

The statewide distribution is expected to increase to $7.5 million in 2014-15 and $7.6 million by 2015-16, Gordner said.

Becker said NCCD's 2012-13 budget consisted of $539,488 from the state, impact fees and various grants; $108,244 from Northumberland County and $50,345 in revenue generated by the district through an annual membership drive and tree sale, permitting and construction activities.

Becker said that for every dollar the county contributes to conservation, the county receives $6.45 in return.

"Our county still supports us. We're seeing other counties stopping their support of the conservation districts," she said.

Process not easy

Gordner, who has already visited conservation districts in Columbia County and Snyder County, told NCCD employees and board members that he appreciates what they do.

Culver also said she recognized the amount of good the conservation districts do for their counties, but noted the budget process is not easy.

The legislators will continue to fight, she said.

Masser said he feels a special bond with the conservation district since he was frequently involved during his time as county commissioner and often identifies the state funding for the district once the state budget is proposed.

"You're important. What you do, you do in a conservative way. The money is spent wisely," he said.

Other individuals who provided comment included Northumberland County Commissioner Richard Shoch, Northumberland County Planning Department Director Pat Mack and Pennsylvania Conservation District Executive Director Robert Maiden.

Dave Crowl, NCCD Board chairman, was the master of ceremonies for the lunch.

The state legislators also presented a $365,000 Growing Greener Grant to the district at the end of the meeting. The grant was announced in late February.

Growing Greener is the single largest investment of state funds in Pennsylvania's history to address the critical existing environmental concerns of the 21st century. DEP is authorized to allocate funds in grants for watershed restoration and protection, abandoned mine reclamation and abandoned oil and gas well plugging projects.MIKE STAUGAITIS/Staff Photo

WILLIAMSPORT - Vinny Clausi and Merle Phillips said they were unaware the lawsuit filed against them by fired Northumberland County employee Kymberley Best was settled, and both said they wouldn't have agreed to a settlement because they don't believe they did anything wrong.

But the county's liability policy with ACE Westchester Fire Insurance Company allows the firm to settle without the county's consent, something county solicitor Frank Garrigan described as somewhat typical for liability coverage.

Barry Kronthal, of Camp Hill, the attorney who represented the county for ACE, was unavailable for comment Thursday regarding the settlement, but Garrigan said a confidentiality agreement that's part of the settlement will prevent any details from being disclosed.

Reached Thursday afternoon, Best said she couldn't comment.

Notice was filed in federal court in Williamsport Tuesday that Best's lawsuit against the county, Clausi, who is county commissioner chairman, and Phillips, a former commissioner, has been settled with the aid of a mediator. The filing says a mediation conference was held Tuesday.

On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Matthew W. Brann signed the order to dismiss the case without costs and prejudice to either party. The action can be reinstated within 60 days if the settlement is not consummated.

'I don't understand'

Clausi stressed Thursday that the settlement, whatever dollar amount it might involve, will be paid by the insurance company and cost taxpayers nothing. The only cost to the county to have ACE represent it was a $25,000 deductible paid soon after the suit was filed.

Clausi said the notion of a "settlement" suggests he admits to wrongdoing when he says that's not the case.

Phillips agreed with Clausi and was shocked to learn about the settlement through the media.

"There's no way I would agree to settle it because I didn't do anything wrong," Phillips said Thursday. "I didn't even do a deposition."

Best filed the suit in May 2011 claiming wrongful termination and defamation after she was fired March 18 of that year from her dual role as assistant county solicitor and chief clerk. She was paid a $70,762 annually.

She would later file an amended complaint, but five of her initial claims, including due process, equal pay, conspiracy, wrongful termination and state whistleblower violations, were dismissed by Kane in August 2012.

Clausi and Phillips had also filed motions requesting the suit be dismissed, citing immunity as public officials.

On Oct. 27, 2012, Best filed a second amended complaint. Remaining in the suit were free speech claims that allege retaliation and a part of the whistleblower claim that dealt with her reports of deficient air quality in the register and recorder's office in the county courthouse related to mold from a leaking roof and a related danger from a glass dome on the roof.

At the time she filed her lawsuit, Best also filed a 13-point complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) accusing Clausi of sexual harassment.

The lawsuit and PHRC complaint were in part tied to an incident that occurred 10 days before Best's firing at a meeting in which Clausi acknowledged he "flipped out" on Best. But Clausi said he felt vindicated when state police and the state Office of the Attorney General closed their investigation into the incident without filing any charges.

County's rights

Garrigan said Thursday he was contacted recently by Kronthal and was told ACE, which has offices nationwide, was going to entertain an offer for settlement. Garrigan said he mentioned that none of the defendants was ready to consent, but he was reminded that the firm did not need the defendants' permission to settle, per terms of the policy.

Garrigan said he received a phone call Tuesday informing him a settlement had been reached.

Clausi and Garrigan said there are other liability policies for various departments or personnel where the county has more leeway. But even where the county has a right to consent to or refuse a settlement, the county takes a chance it can be responsible for financial payouts well beyond the deductible.

"We like the ability to consent, but at the same time, you're rolling the dice every time," Garrigan said. Taxpayers are put at risk for footing the bill should the county lose the case or have to pay part or all of a large settlement.

The settlement of a lawsuit filed by former county prison deputy warden John Conrad and his wife, Lisa, speaks to the differences in policies and settlements. In that case, the settlement amount, $87,500, was disclosed.