WELLSBORO - The Wellsboro community is again inviting the public to join in the week-long Pennsylvania State Laurel Festival celebration beginning Saturday. This family-friendly event includes the Pennsylvania State Laurel Queen competition.

This year, Lisa Darrup will represent Mount Carmel Area Junior-Senior High School and her community as a candidate for the title of Laurel Queen.

Darrup, a daughter of Jim and Ann Darrup, has been a cheerleader for football and wrestling. She has participated in Odyssey of the Mind, Interact Club, Envirothon, Haunted High, Chemistry Club, Spanish club, pep club and peer mediation. She was on the yearbook staff, has earned the school board merit award and placement on the National Honor Society. She was named Rotary Student of the Month and Elks Teenager of the Year. She plans to attend Misericordia University to major in speech-language pathology.

The queen candidates gather at noon Friday, June 14, on the steps of the Tioga County Courthouse for the official welcome. That evening, the queen's preview and concert at the Wellsboro High School auditorium will feature musical entertainment by the Brothers Callahan.

Saturday afternoon, the young ladies will ride on professionally designed floats during the Laurel Festival parade which features the theme, "What Dreams Are Made Of." At 7:30 p.m. Saturday, the candidates return to the high school for the coronation.

The 72nd Pennsylvania State Laurel Festival kicks off Saturday with Family Day on the Green in downtown Wellsboro and continues throughout the week with a pet parade, music, a juried arts and crafts fair, the International Street of Foods and a carnival.

The eagerly-anticipated Laurel Festival parade starts at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 15, and features high school bands, bagpipers, firetrucks, horses, floats and more. The festival concludes Sunday morning with a Union Church service on The Green.

For more information about the Pennsylvania State Laurel Festival, contact the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce by calling 724-1926 or visit www.wellsboropa.com.

Public welcome at JJUSA signup today

SHAMOKIN - The public is welcome to Claude Kehler Community Park today for the Jeep Jamboree USA registration.

JJUSA is in town for the Pirate Coal Mountain Jeep Jamboree trail ride Friday and Saturday at the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA). Registration is being held downtown as a way to bring the AOAA visitors into the city.

A portion of West Arch Street at the park will be closed to traffic, allowing an estimated 60 Jeeps to park there.

The public is encouraged to walk through the park area between 4 and 7 p.m. for the block party-like event. There will be food, and local band RATL will perform. The Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce will distribute maps of local attractions and businesses to Jeep riders.

JJUSA will be back to the AOAA for the Coal Mountain Jeep Jamboree Aug. 1 to 3. That event sold out quickly, with 90 registrants, prompting JJUSA to arrange this weekend's ride, also.

Participants already booked with JJUSA for the weekend will formally register, have their vehicles inspected and get instructions for the weekend at tonight's event.

Last day for SASD is Friday

COAL TOWNSHIP - Friday is the last day of the 2012-'13 school year and an Act 80 Day early dismissal for Shamokin Area students. The middle/high school will dismiss at 12:18 p.m. and the elementary will dismiss at 12:45 p.m. K-4 p.m. students will have class.

Auction Saturday at Meadowview

PAXINOS - Meadowview Christian Academy will hold its 16th annual auction from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The event at 216 Tulip Road will also feature a community yard sale, a basket raffle, food and live entertainment.

For more information, call 644-1573.

Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library

SHAMOKIN - Memorials for the period of April 28 to May 29 have been presented to Shamokin Coal Township Public Library for the following persons:

Renee Apichell by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Erma Lorenz.

Joseph Baranoskie by Shamokin High School Class of 1950.

Daniel Baskin by Shamokin Area Class of 1970.

Stephen Bednar Sr. by Danny and Sandee Ciesluk.

Helen Bickert by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Edwin Bielski by Carl Bielski.

Rennie Bishop by Shamokin Area Class of 1970.

Anthony J. Bixler by Pat and Jim Bressi, Bill Dudeck, Kathy and Abby James and Marian Edmondson.

Joseph R. Bradley by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Margaret and Frank Konopka, Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Makowski and family.

Dorothy (Kelly) Buffington by Shamokin Catholic Class of 1958.

Jonathan J.R. Christ by Lorrie Logic and family, Roseanne and Robert Nolan.

Matthew Crowl by Emily Parker and family.

Bertha Dietrick by Steve and Bernadette Miller, Ron Slaby, Chris Petrovich and Sue Burns.

Hilda Dilliplane by Diane and Ron Fessler, Marie and Greg Yucha.

Dick Drumheiser by Rich and Susie Barrett and sons.

Nancy Weimer Edmunds by Shamokin High School Class of 1950.

Calvin J. Fertig by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Kathy and Abby James.

Florence Gratti by Loretta Brown, Nancy Derk, Dottie Weaver, Mary Buczeskie and Bunny Fabian, Catherine Gratti Reed, Chris, Dave, Kyle and Kasey Williams.

Roy Greager by Jim, Nancy and Abby Rodman.

Robert Herb by James and Nancy Williams.

Leonard Hojnacki by Carl Bielski.

John "Cab" Kallaway by Ronald Kuhns, Shamokin High School Class of 1944.

Clara Kerstetter by Audrey and Gerry Mroz.

James Kline by Rose and Bill Broscius.

Bishop Joseph McFadden by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Margaret McManiman by Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gedman.

Patsy Malett by Barbara Ammerman and Linda Latsha.

Frederick J. Markle Sr. by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Pat and Jim Bressi, Kathy and Abby James.

Alma A. Martin by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Joseph Moroski by Tom Adams and Sue Burns and family, Mable Wilinski.

Missy Mazzatesta by Rose Marie Jones.

Clara Tyler Peipher by Ray and Colleen Lauer.

Ida Lorraine Rebilas by Federal Reserve Bank: Law Enforcement Unit.

Daniel "Dixie" Richardson by Pat and Lum Bradley, Kathy Gonsar, Therese and Margie Kleinschmidt, Margaret and Frank Konopka, Ray and Colleen Lauer, Bob and Caran Mattis, Joseph A. Rocuskie, Shamokin Street Department, Jane Ann and Mark Sosnoskie, Chet and Marion Stesney, William Strausser, Nancy Suchanick, Mary and Jeff Thew, Edward V. Twiggar II.

Marion Rozinski by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Jeanne Shaffer.

Elizabeth R. Rupp by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Ray and Colleen Lauer, Arlene and Rol Morgan, Pepper, Chip and Janet Shurock, Charles Yoder and JoAnn Shotko.

Theresa M. Scicchitano by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Jeffrey Scheuren by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Barbara Schoenberger by Overlook Ridge friends and the staff of Mountain View.

Laurie Hoy Tamkus by aunt Corrine Thomas.

Tom Tidey by Jean and Mike Maliniak.

Marna M. Victoriano by Bruce Victoriano.

Carmen Vitacco by Coal Township High School Class of 1949.

Nancy Zarkoski by Carl Bielski.

Contributions to the Memorial Fund:

Hilda Dilliplane by Marian Edmondson, Pete, Stacy, Zakary and Emily Zanella.

Josephine A. Garrigan by Francis and Joyce Koczur.

Clara Kerstetter by Suzanne and Bob Starke.

Clara Peipher by Jim and Rhonda Tyler.

David S. Reed by Albina Primerano.

Elizabeth Rupp by Jane Madara.

Charley Tamkus by Mom, Dad, Randy and Dalton.

Elaine Tanis by Loretta Brown.

In honor of:

Lourdes Regional High School Class of 2013 by Mr. and Mrs. Edward Madden.

Florence Verano by Rosanne and Robert Nolan.

Honor a loved one and place a permanent memorial in the Library Century Club.

SHAMOKIN - The city has been approved for more than $3.4 million in grant funding for restoration projects on a pair of high-profile landmarks, according to the city clerk.

Shamokin will receive $3,402,111 in federal grant funding to make repairs to the channels of Shamokin Creek and Carbon Run, which includes the historic preservation of a portion of the former's stone channel behind the city's downtown.

Another $25,000 was awarded by the Pennsylvania Historic Museum Commission to be used on the "99 Steps," the stone staircase at Lincoln and Liberty streets. That grant must be matched with $35,000 from the city. City council plans to meet the match by using funds from its annual Community Development Block Grant allocations.

There is no matching amount required for the creek channel project.

Steve Bartos, city clerk, made the funding announcements during a special city council meeting Wednesday that preceded council's monthly workshop session.

City council and the mayor voted to accept the PHMC grant.

Loan sought

Since funding from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the creek channel project will be released incrementally, they also voted to seek out the best possible terms to finance a construction loan for the total amount in order to begin that project.

Bartos likened the financing sought to a line of credit, and said it's necessary because it will take six to eight weeks for FEMA to approve reimbursements for project invoices.

Interest on the loan could be paid with administrative fees included in the federal grant, he said.

A full restoration of the "99 Steps," long closed to the public due to safety concerns, will likely be pursued in stages. The work had been estimated by a contractor in March 2012 to cost $175,000.

Bartos said if associated paperwork is returned immediately to PHMC notifying the state agency of the city's acceptance of the grant, the funding could be turned over as soon as Aug. 31.

Shamokin had applied for $500,000 in state grant funding last year that would have been used to help establish the start of a regional walking trail and would have included the restoration of the "99 Steps." It was rejected.

Bartos and city officials again pursued funding for the project, this time limiting the scope and the award amount, and were successful.

Topic of conversation

Talk of the creek project inside City Hall has been frequent since Tropical Storm Lee caused historic flooding in the Shamokin area in September 2011.

Believed to have been one of several projects of the Works Progress Administration, construction on the Shamokin Creek channel began in 1935 and is believed to have carried into the early 1940s. It's interlocking stone creek bed and stone walls are one of the fewest examples of stone-lined creek channels in the state, and is significant in terms both of quality of work and, at 1.2 miles in the city, its size.

FEMA originally allocated nearly $1.8 million to repair the creek channel. An engineering survey performed one year after the flooding drove up the costs to an estimated $2.7 million. Bartos has said FEMA added to that amount, awarding the city more than $3.4 million.

Engineers and regional historians had worked closely with the city to convince FEMA of the merits of the restoration project.

SUNBURY - Three Sunbury police officers involved in Wednesday's chase that ended with a police officer shooting a 17-year-old have been placed on administrative leave, Chief Stephen Mazzeo said.

"The officers met with a counselor today, and will also meet with a police psychologist," he said Wednesday.

The officers involved have not been identified. Also, state police, who issued a report on the incident, did not identify what officer fired the shot, but it is believed it could be one of the city officers.

Mazzeo said state police are handling the investigation.

"We requested them come in and take over," he said. "That way, there can be no accusation of improprieties."

Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Rosini said having a different agency investigate a shooting incident involving police is standard procedure.

Those investigating will conduct interviews, review medical reports and analyze scene reconstructions. Once a report is complete, it will be turned over to Rosini and his staff.

"After that, we will review the report and make the determination on whether the force taken was appropriate," Rosini said.

Based on preliminary information, the district attorney said it appeared appropriate action was taken, but he would not make an official comment because the incident is still under investigation.

Mazzeo said the three officers involved were checked out at a local hospital, and one was treated and released for a minor head injury.

He said they'll remain on leave until further notice.

"Once the police and the D.A.'s office get done with their investigation, we will go from there, based on their determination," he said.

Questions about the use of force by police were raised last week when, on May 28, members of a U.S. Marshals Task Force shot 52 rounds at fugitive ex-police officer Anthony Galla at a motel room near Philadelphia. Galla, who was pointing a semi-automatic pistol at police, was killed. He was sought by police after an incident at his ex-girlfriend's home in Mount Carmel earlier in the day in which police said he fired seven shots from about six feet away at her new boyfriend, striking him once in the foot, as he lay beside a bed.

The Delaware County district attorney's office is investigating that police shooting.

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Area School District announced Wednesday the top five students who will graduate with their classmates at 7 p.m. today in the high school gym.

Lisa Darrup has been named the valedictorian of the class of 2013. Rachel Toter is salutatorian. Ranked third is Cathy Fletcher; fourth, Tyler Kwiatkowski, and fifth, Alex McLeod.

Lisa Darrup

Throughout her high school career, Darrup was a member of the varsity football and wrestling cheerleading teams, peer mediation, haunted high school, the yearbook, and the Interact, chemistry, science, Spanish and pep clubs. Darrup also competed in several scholastic competitions, including Odyssey of the Mind, Pennsylvania Envirothon and science Olympiad.

Darrup is a daughter of Anne and Jim Darrup, of Mount Carmel. In addition to her school-based activities, she dances at Karen Gronsky School of Dance in Danville, is an altar server at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and volunteers at the Mount Carmel Area Public Library.

Darrup will attend Misericordia University in Dallas, Pa., to major in speech-language pathology.

Rachel Toter

Toter was a member of the track and field team, powder puff team, SADD, and the Interact, ski, tech ed, and Spanish clubs. She was a distinguished honors student, a member of Quill and Scroll honor society and vice president of the National Honor Society. She was also involved in a School Counts! program and a junior volunteer program with Geisinger Health System and helped to design homecoming floats. She was awarded the Rotary Club and the School Board Merit Award this year.

Rachel Toter is a daughter of Anthony and Edie Toter, of Shady Acres. She likes to spend time with her family and loves the outdoors. She plans to attend Bloomsburg University to major in nursing.

Cathy Fletcher

In high school, Fletcher was a distinguished honors student and member of SAT 1300 club, the Odyssey of the Mind, homecoming float committee, powder puff team and chemistry and Spanish clubs. She served as vice president of the senior class, student council homeroom representative, secretary of National Honor Society and president of National Athletic Honor Society.  

Athletically, she earned 11 varsity letters in cross country, swimming and track and field. She was recognized as "Female Scholar Athlete" by the Ed Romance Chapter of the Pa. Sports Hall of Fame and Schuylkill County Women's Athletic Association, in addition to being named "Outstanding Female Athlete" by PIAA District 4.

Fletcher also participated in a developmental studies program, Advanced College Experience (ACE) program at Bloomsburg University, Young Scholar Program at Luzerne County Community College and University of Pittsburgh's Health Career Scholars Academy. She represented the school at a national economics challenge, WVIA scholastic scrimmage, Lycoming College math competition and Bucknell University gold exam.

Fletcher is a daughter of Michael and Susan Fletcher, of Kulpmont. Outside of school, she has served as an altar server and picnic volunteer at Holy Angels Church, Kulpmont, and collected more than 700 books in support of the Kulpmont Lending Library. She was employed at Knoebels Amusement Resort the past three seasons. She plans to attend Lehigh University in Bethlehem to major in biomedical engineering.

Tyler Kwiatkowski

Kwiatkowski was a captain of the varsity football and basketball teams, and competed in track and field. He was a member of Future Teachers of America, and the Interact and Spanish clubs. Kwiatkowski was an Elementary Merit Award winner, a 2013 Russ and Joanne Cesari Scholar Athlete, the vice president of the National Athletic Honor Society and treasurer of the National Honor Society.  

Kwiatkowski is a son of Kevin and Cheryl Kwiatkowski, of Mount Carmel. He volunteers at the Relay For Life and Celebration of Special Athletes and is an altar server at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. He enjoys golf and traveling. He plans to attend Columbia University in New York, N.Y., where he plans to play football for the Columbia Lions.

Alex McLeod

McLeod's activities in high school included soccer, musicals,and symphonic, jazz and marching bands, in which she was a drum major and librarian. She was a member of student council, peer mediation, news reporting and the Interact, SADD, science, Spanish and pep clubs. She was also the secretary for the senior class and art club and vice president of chorus. She is a member of the National Honor Society and previously received the Junior High Pride Award.

McLeod is a daughter of Tony and Tracy McLeod, of Kulpmont. She enjoys music, theater and reading. Her future plans are to attend Duquesne University in Pittsburgh to major in speech-language pathology.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Coal Township High School Alumni Association celebrated its 77th anniversary with a banquet at Brady Fire Company Banquet Hall on May 25. It was attended by 217 classmates.

The opening invocation and the blessing were provided by President Sam Weaver.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by the singing of the "Star Spangled Banner" led by Weaver, class of 1964.

Following dinner, a military presentation was given by Walter Summers, class of 1948, honoring 47 veterans in attendance. A moment of silence was observed in memory of all departed veterans. The playing of "Taps" and a salute concluded the program.

Theresa Targonski Sandri, class of 1943, nominating committee chairperson, presented the recommendation for the slate of officers. They were: President, Weaver, class of 1964; vice president, James Gresavage, class of 1946; secretary, Doris Olley Ziemba, class of 1964; treasurer, Diane Grego Kerstetter, class of 1964. With the office of historian being open, Sharon Diettrick Criniti was nominated from the floor. The officers were then elected.

Nineteen members of the class of 1963 celebrating their 50th year anniversary were awarded a pen and pencil set from the alumni by Tom and Sarann Keyack, class of 1957.

Forty-four Shamokin Area High School seniors took a competitive test for five Coal Township scholarships. The 2013 Coal Township scholarship recipients are:

- Darien Craft, George Nagle Scholarship, $3,000 per year. Craft will be attend Bucknell University with a major in biomedical engineering.

- Theodore Deptula, Frank Marcinek Scholarship, $2,500 per year. Deptula will attend Penn State University with a major in engineering.

- Andrew Hasuga, George Lytle Scholarship, $2,000 per year. Hasuga will attend Wilkes University with a major in biology.

Marlena Ford, Coal Township Alumni Scholarship, $2,000 per year. Ford will attend Penn State University, undeclared.

Christie Munson, Coal Township Alumni Scholarship, $2,000 per year. Munson will attend Wilson University with a major in psychology.

Faculty and administration from the Northumberland County Career and Technology Center made the recommendation for Keisha Foulds to receive a $2,500 per year scholarship from the alumni. Foulds will attend Bloomsburg University with a major in nursing.

Coal Township Class of 1951 presented a one-time award of $625 to Chelsea Moroski.

The Shamokin and Coal Township scholarship winners were presented, introduced themselves, talked about their majors and their school of choice.

Weaver reported the Coal Township Alumni Association continues to serve the community and young people of Shamokin Area. In the last year, 33 high school graduates received $64,000 in Coal Township Alumni Scholarship monies. The monies, received from class and individual donations to the scholarship fund and the generosity of the Andrew C. Long Foundation, will continue to finance the CTHS scholarships well into the future.

Robert Shuey, Class of 1943, presented to the alumni $300 to the Century Club and $2,193 to the general fund.

Aldine Lashay, class of 1936, was recognized as a 77-year alumnus.

Weaver thanked the banquet committee members, Diane Kerstetter, Doris Ziemba, Sarann and Thomas Keyack, Theresa Sandi and Genevieve Daniels for the planning and decorating. Classes were recognized and thanked for their continued support. All members are encouraged to become active with the alumni association.

The business meeting closed with the singing of the Coal Township alma mater, led by Weaver.

Anniversary class pictures were taken by Harry Deitz.

During the after glow, The Shoreliners entertained the assembly. Refreshments were included.

Class members donating $100 or more to the scholarship fund become members of the Coal Township Alumni Century Club. The previous year's Century Club donors are listed in the annual alumni newsletter.

Vetovich to hold book signings

SHAMOKIN - Paxinos author Kristalyn Vetovich will be signing copies of her new book "Pure Fyre" at two events in the area.

She will be signing copies and reading an excerpt from her novel at a book release party from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the Northumberland County Fine Arts Gallery, in the Career and Arts Center, Arch and Eighth streets. She will also be signing copies at Saturday's Bunker Hill yard sale, at the Bunker Hill complex.

These will be two of the last opportunities to get an advance copy of the book before it goes on sale nationally on Tuesday. More information on "Pure Fyre" can be found at www.kristalyn.biz.

Food pantry distribution Saturday

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Food Pantry will hold its monthly distribution from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Notary Shop, 215 S. Oak St. for borough residents who have signed up in the past.

Residents at the Midrise are asked to meet in the lobby at 11 a.m.

Prayer discussed Sunday

ELYSBURG - The effectiveness of prayer will be explored at Lifetree Cafe from 7 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Elysburg Presbyterian Church, 320 W. Valley Ave.

The program, titled "Prayer: Could a Conversation With God Change Your Life?" features an exclusive filmed interview with former PGA golf pro Wally Armstrong, who found an unusual way to make his prayers more meaningful.

Armstrong, who is also the author of "The Mulligan: A Parable of Second Chances," said, "There's a new level. I was a believer in prayer but I found there's a big difference between believing something is true, and experiencing something is real."

Admission to the 60-minute event is free. Snacks and beverages are available.

Lifetree Cafe is a place where people gather for conversation about life and faith in a casual coffeehouse-type setting.

For more information, call 672-2873 or go to www.facebook.com/LifetreeCafeAtEPC.

Frank, Mary and I, Bill, wish to thank all the people of Shamokin and surrounding areas for the cheerful and heart-warming welcome for our trip back to Shamokin for the Anthracite Heritage Festival.

We had a great time.

Actually, that is an understatement.

We had an absolutely fabulous, fantastic time! It was great seeing many friends and places that brought back wonderful, fond memories. All three of us are proud to be from Shamokin, and it is the people that make it such a great place.

Special thanks to Garth Hall as our host, Jeanne Shaffer (SHS Class of 1965!) for terrific management of the festival as executive director of The Northumberland County Council for the Arts and Humanities, The News-Item for its professional coverage of F&S History and all the events of the festival including our homecoming, Tom Kutza for the "live" coverage of the event, and a big thank you to the people of Shamokin for making it a joyous event!

If we ever start making F&S again, Shamokin will be the first place to receive the inaugural brew. We may have enough orders already.

Thanks again!

Best wishes to all,

Bill, Mary and Frank Schmidt

COAL TOWNSHIP - Shamokin Area Athletic Director Rick Kashner was authorized Thursday by members of the district's athletic committee to research options to implement a random drug testing policy for all students.

Kashner said North Schuylkill School District has a policy in place that Shamokin Area could use as a model. Athletic committee chairman Robert Getchey, members Charles Shuey, Jeff Kashner, Brian Persing and Bernie Sosnoskie, and Superintendent James Zack endorsed implementing such a policy.

In other committee business, Getchey recommended moving the high school wrestling matches from the Annex back to the high school gymnasium, primarily for parking purposes. None of the committee members opposed the suggestion, but said a decision must be made in the near future because schedules for next season need to be finalized.

Getchey complained about baseballs being used at clinics and other practices at the Annex. He said one window was accidentally broken and a door was damaged with a baseball.

"I don't think real baseballs should be used in a confined area like that," Getchey said. "Somebody is going to get their head knocked off."

Rick Kashner said softer balls in the shape of baseballs should be used in the gym and agreed to warn coaches and clinic coordinators about not using regular hard balls.

Committee members agreed to keep port-a-potties at the softball and baseball fields throughout the summer to accommodate walkers and others at a cost of approximately $500.

The committee agreed to establish limits on the use of vans and buses during the summer months by athletic teams.

Kashner informed the committee that approximately $2,500 was spent on the junior high baseball program this past season. He said the team, which is comprised of approximately 15 players, only plays games against two area squads (Mifflinburg and Shikellamy) and Milton Hershey.

The committee agreed to maintain all junior high sports and set starting times for junior high girls and junior high boys home basketball games at 5:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., respectively.

Getchey said he plans to resign as chairman of the athletic committee due to other commitments, but will remain as chairman of the building and grounds committee.

Building and grounds director Dave Petrovich outlined summer work projects in the district, including macadam repairs throughout the campus that are estimated at $100,000.

Petrovich said one of the priority projects is the high school heating/ventilation and air conditioning system. He said three compressors will be replaced while a new gasket will be installed on another compressor. Petrovich said there are a total of 33 compressors on the high school roof that operate the system.

He said roof work on the elementary school is scheduled to be completed by the end of July.

Petrovich said upgrades will be made to the fire alarm system at the elementary school.

Petrovich said the high school and Annex gym floors will be refinished at a cost of $8,500 between July 8 to 12 and will not be available until July 22.

He said approximately 10 teens chosen by the Pa. Career Link will be assisting maintenance personnel in the summer.

Getchey said two college students will be hired for the summer. He said only current college students or juniors and seniors at the high school are eligible for the work program.

Another notable summer project is the replacement of 306 seat backs in the high school auditorium. Getchey complained about various seats in the auditorium balcony being broken and recommended they be replaced by soft plastic instead of cushion seats.

Other summer projects include erecting a playground at the elementary school ($1,200), cutting down 14 dead pine trees on the campus, installing a rubber roof above lockers in the high school stadium ($3,100), roadway wiring ($2,100), a makeover of the nature trail ($1,800), installing accordion security gates at the high school, elementary school and Annex ($4,500) and re-upholstering a soft wall in the elementary school gym ($1,400).

SHAMOKIN - A portion of West Arch Street at Claude Kehler Community Park Thursday was filled with dozens of Jeeps with license plates from California, Texas, North Carolina and all over the east coast.

The crowd, surrounded by the sound of rock music and aroma of burgers and pierogies, gathered in the late afternoon for the kickoff registration event for the Pirate Coal Mountain Jeep Jamboree, which is being held Friday and Saturday at the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA).

It's the Gecinger family's first time riding in Pennsylvania.

"We're looking forward to this. We see a lot of familiar faces here, so we know we're in for a good time," Jodi Gecinger said about herself, her husband, Blake, and their 7-year-old daughter, Autumn.

She said they don't have a place like the AOAA in their home state of North Carolina, and they are excited about finally riding in the park.

"I love the terrain and the rocks. And it (Shamokin) is old. I like old towns," Gecinger said.

While the Gecinger family traveled nearly eight hours north to attend the event, a group of five friends traveled the same amount of time from the opposite direction - the city of Montreal in Quebec, Canada.

Patrick Chamberlain said he and his friends attempted to register for the larger event in August, which sold out in 85 minutes, but were not successful.

They were placed on what they called a "wish list" and eventually were contacted about this weekend's event, Chamberlain said.

Both the Gecinger family and the Canadian friends are staying at motels in Frackville.

Popular event

The visiting group, Jeep Jamboree USA, is a partner of the famed Jeep manufacturing company. It's based in California but attracts Jeep enthusiasts nationwide. Group members made their first visit to the 6,500-acre AOAA last year, bringing with them 81 Jeeps and 210 participants and guides.

The local ride was a popular one among JJUSA members, and the first scheduled ride at AOAA in 2013, the Coal Mountain Jeep Jamboree planned for Aug. 1 to 3, attracted 90 Jeeps and sold out in less than one hour.

The organizers of the soft opening Thursday called the block-party-like event a success for the riders, but the weather kept the public away from checking out the Jeeps parked in the closed street.

Although the rain may affect the city residents, AOAA Authority member Barry Yorwarth said it would prove interesting for the riders over the weekend.

"The guides will have new issues. Last year, they had a lot of dust. This year, it looks like it will be slick rocks and mud," he said.

It will be a different experience than last year's event, he said.

Yorwarth said he envisions hooking up different promoters with different municipalities in the future and holding more soft openings like the one Thursday.

Other registration and inspections could be held at the RCA Grounds in Ranshaw or the Foundry recreation area in Trevorton, he said.

Block party

At Thursday's event, the Jeeps were inspected, and each rider registered between 5 and 7 p.m. and chose their desired trail while local band RATL provided the entertainment.

Members of Forest Hill Fire Company grilled and sold hamburgers and hot dogs, and Fisher's Boston Pierogies sold its signature product.

The Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce handed out maps to Jeep riders to let them know what the area has to offer.

During the ride today and Saturday, there will be 50 registered Jeeps and 14 vehicles with trail guides, and there are 127 people from 18 different states signed up to ride, explained Glenda Gau, the adventure consultant with Jeep Jamboree.

Steve Risk, the local coordinator, said hosting the kickoff event at Claude Kehler was a good idea for many reasons, including providing business for local restaurants.

Other people were asking where the local grocery stores were located.

The riders met for lunch Thursday at Coney Island on Independence Street, and will have breakfast at Masser Banquet Hall in Elysburg today and Saturday.

"So far, this is going pretty well. Everyone is loud, noisy and excited," Risk said.

Deb Yeager, branch manager of Susquehanna Bank on Independence Street, and Steve Bartos, city clerk, helped organize the registration event.

BLOOMSBURG - Cassandra Mace, a sophomore early childhood education/special education dual major at Bloomsburg University, has been named to the dean's list with a 4.0 grade-point average for the spring semester.

A resident of Atlas, she is a daughter of Suzanne and David Mace.

MOUNT CARMEL - In all her time living in the coal region and studying in the Mount Carmel Area School District, valedictorian Lisa Darrup said two important qualities were instilled in her and her classmates.

Dedication and pride, she said.

"Not only do the sports and arts here at Mount Carmel Area showcase our dedication and pride," Darrup said in her valedictory address Thursday, "every club and organization in this school does, too."

Darrup was among 138 students graduating from Mount Carmel Area High School during its ceremony in the high school gymnasium, and said that dedication and pride could be found in every member of this year's graduating class.

"Whether someone is involved in 10 school-based activities or none at all, these characteristics can be found in everyone. They are what makes us so unique," Darrup said. "We all embody these coal region qualities to such a great extent that no matter where life takes us, they will always shine through in our individual personalities."

While welcoming everyone to the ceremony, class president Robert Varano discussed the journey the students have taken to get to graduation day, and how many of them may be afraid of their own success.

"Every step that takes us further away from our accomplishment, our happiness begins to fade. To me, just the opposite should be true. With every step across the top of this mountain, our happiness should grow because we have done what we set out to do, we proved those wrong that thought we wouldn't make it," Varano said.

'Never stop learning'

Superintendent Bernard Stellar introduced this year's special speaker, former Mount Carmel Area superintendent and 1966 graduate Richard Beierschmitt, who discussed how the world and education has changed over the years.

"There were no smartboards, virtual field trips or even computers," Beierschmitt told the graduates of his high school days. "It's a very different world then the last time I saw you in this setting, walking across the auditorium during your kindergarten graduation."

One thing Beierschmitt hoped would never change is the graduates' thirst for knowledge.

"The key to success is learning, whether it be in college or trade school, or just reading something for fun. Be confident, set goals for your future and never stop learning," he said.

The ceremony also featured a number of musical selections from the school chorus, the presentation of awards by high school principal Lisa Varano, and the awarding of diplomas by Mount Carmel Area School Board president Donna James. Middle school principal Gregory Sacavage announced class members had earned nearly $1.3 million in scholarship money.

"Anyone who says that education doesn't pay, there is your proof (that it does)," Sacavage said.

Remembering Leso

A special page in the program was dedicated to classmate Gregory J. Leso, who passed away one day before the start of the his senior year.

"As we spend this final day at Mount Carmel Area High School together, remember that classmate Greg Leso is also here with us in spirit and in our hearts," salutatorian Rachel Toter said in her address.

With the graduates moving on to their separate lives and futures, Toter reminded her classmates that the future is a big blank slate and right in front of them, and to never forget who they are.

"We are writers, athletes, artists, and scientists... winners achievers, district champions and survivors," she said. "We are Tornadoes."

Graduates

The members of Mount Carmel Area's Class of 2013 are Brianna Leigh Bailey, Marcelle Renee Barber, Robert Karl Beierschmitt Jr., Keri Elizabeth Bennett, Kelsea Elizabeth Bergeron, Melissa Brianne Bidelspach, Alyssa Danielle Bielski, Joseph Mathew Woodstock Bishop, Daniel Lee Blevins, Michael Vincent Bonner, Jenna K. Bray, Anthony Vincent John Candelora, Stacia Melanie Carpenter, Abigail Eleanor Rose Chapman, Michael James Chapman, Crystal Marie Chatterton, Stefanie Nicole Cimino, Richard Louis Coffman Jr., Douglas William Cole, Anthony Michael D'Agostino, Forrest Lee Dalpiaz, Ashley Marie D'Andrea, Alexandria Gabriel Danilowicz, Lisa Anne Darrup, Noel Christina Dauber. Kelsey Leigh Deitz, Christopher John Delbo, Cassidy Danielle DeMarco, Tara Marguerite Demko, Samanatha Michelle DeWald, Kolby Marshall Dillon, Ashley Nicole Docherty, Shuying Dong, Edward J. Dormer, Kristen Nicole Duceman, Nicholas Arthur Duceman, Bridget Elizabeth Dunkel and Elijah M. Duran.

Jesse Allen Edleblute, Shannon Mary Elizabeth Edmondson, Ashley Lynn Evans, Thomas E. Farley, Kathryn Marie Fest, Eric Galen Filipczak, Catherine Nicole Fletcher, Daniel Robert Fletcher, Lisa Marie Flickinger, Savanna Lee Ford, Forrest James Galitski, Dondre Kishshawn Glasper, Gary Michael Grayeski, Miranda Green, Luke J. Haladay, Jordan Ihtasham Haq, Raymond Alexander Heromin, Robert John Hertzog, Tyler Brandon Hill, Daniel John Horan, Cristen Paul Howerter, Jordan A. Hudick, Callie Ann Hummel, Katlyn Marie Jackson, Kelsey Ann Janolek, Eric Michael Joraskie, Brittany G. Joseph, Douglas Katalinas, Kayleen Elizabeth Klemas, Marissa Lynn Klinger, Lucas John Klingerman, Amanda Lee Knopp, Amber Lynn Knopp, Tyler James Kwiatkowski, Corey F. Langton and Mary Rose Latorre.

Brianna Mary Latovich, Daniel James Lesko, Ronald James Lutes, Casey M. Lynott, Rachelle Lynn MacLaren, Jared Anthony Maciejewski, Sabrina C. Maisey, Niracha Marchetti, Jillian Brei Mazurkevich, Sean P. McDonnell, Alexandria Brittany McLeod, Michael R. Miller, Travis M. Minnig, Marisa Ann Montgomery, Ellese Mae Nestico, Samantha Marie Nevius, Seth Michael Nicola, Michelle Autumn Ortiz, Ashley L. Orzechowski, Brianna Jo Pancher, Christian Adrienne Perles, Justin M. Petro, Bryson J. Purcell, Nicole Rose Purcell, Heather M. Rosetta, Kristen Lynn Ruskuski and Tiffany Renee Rutledge.

Michelle I. Sandoval, Rosemary Sandoval, Michael Scicchitano, Shelby Loren Scott, Zachary Michael Sebastian, Kimberly Lynn Shicowich, Daniel J. Shields, Justin Raymond Skavery, Kristyn Nicole Smeal, Rebecca Nicole Snyder, Tiana Lamae Snyder, Branden Edward Sosnoski, Seth Ryan Stablewski, Teodor Staykov, Nicholas Michael Steffanick, Jayson J. Stellar, Thomas Frederick Stief, Jason Aarron Strausser, Alec Michael Suchoski, Michael Richard Swatski Jr., Kaylee Marie Sweda, Ashley Nicole Taggart, Derek Michael Thomas, Rachel E. Toter, Karissa Katherine Trent, Cassandra Renee Troutman, Nicholas Michael Troutman, Quentin James Troutman, Robert Michael Varano, Brittany Nicole Venna, Nathan Levi Wagner, Tori Ann Wariki, Tyler Joseph Wariki, Joshua R. Wright, Joseph Edward Zanella and Kirsten Lynn Zarski.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following memorials were presented to Divine Redeemer Church in May.

Helen M. Nolter from Liz Robbins family, Ann DiFrancesco, Frank and Mary Sawicki.

Saverio V. and Raffaela Miriello from daughters.

Joanne Stabinski from Bill and MaryAnn Pollock.

Eleanor Mattucci from Diane Ciocco, Frank and Mary Sawicki.

Ignatius and Helen Grochowski from family.

Bruno J. Leonardi from Nolter family, Martha Meredith, Myron Zuech; Sam and Ann Spears; Marietta and Gina Miriello, Dave and Roslyn (Sassani) Udris and family, Paul A. and Joann Zacharski Sr. and family, MaryLou and Clinton Macsherry III.

Mary E. Hertzog from Mr. and Mrs. Ronald James and daughters, Karen Jureviczand daughters, John Bartos and family, Mary M. Rudisill, Margaret Almeida and family, Dan and Phyllis Ficca, David and Anne Pizzoli, Elaine Jurgill, Frank and Mary Sawicki, Basil and MaryAnn Hashuga, Francine and William Ayres, Anonymous.

SUNBURY - State police are still working to determine the details of a Wednesday morning chase that ended when, according to police, a city officer shot the teen driver after the teen drove into two squad cars and attempted to hit the officer.

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Matt Burrows, a community service officer for Troop F, said Thursday the investigation by officers from the state police barracks in Stonington is "continuing and ongoing."

According to Burrows, three officers from Sunbury City Police were involved in the pursuit and an officer from that department shot Naheem Reams, 17, through the windshield of the 1997 Saturn the teen was driving.

Reams remained in critical condition as of 9:15 p.m. Thursday at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville.

One of the officers suffered a minor head injury in the incident, and was treated and released from a local hospital.

A search warrant for the vehicle was issued Wednesday by Magisterial District Judge Benjamin Apfelbaum, of Sunbury, and determined the vehicle is registered to Jessica C. Walter. The vehicle is being held at the Stonington barracks while the investigation continues.

A receipt of seized property from the Saturn shows police removed fabric containing a bullet hole from the driver's seat, one round of ammunition from the driver's seat and a cash register, which was found in pieces in a box in the trunk.

When the investigation is complete, the findings will be given to the Northumberland County district attorney's office, which will review the evidence and then make a determination on whether officers were justified in their actions.

Street sweeper day

Police said the incident began when Sunbury Police Department was attempting to clear local streets of vehicles for weekly street cleaning. Officers encountered a vehicle parked along Fifth Street near Brennan's Farm Road that was occupied by the suspect, the state police report said. Brennan's Farm Road is a short street connecting Fifth and Sixth streets, just south of Reagan Street near Goodwill Hose Company.

Police said they "attempted to request" the suspect move his vehicle, but he took off "in a reckless manner." He refused to pull over when police tried to initiate a traffic stop and committed multiple traffic violations while he traveled through the city at a high rate of speed, according to police.

It could not be determined Thursday if police had spoken to Reams before he drove away.

In the area of Chestnut Street (Route 61 south) and Front Street (Route 147), the suspect's vehicle struck two Sunbury Police Department vehicles and the suspect attempted to strike a city officer with his car, police said.

According to a probable cause affidavit obtained through the Northumberland County Prothonotary's office Thursday, "the police officer, simultaneously while taking evasive action from being hit, shot into the car's windshield."

Reams' car came to rest in a park not far from the intersection of Front and Market streets.

It appeared the right front tire of the suspect's vehicle was flat or low on air, and there was damage to the rear bumper.

It could not be determined Thursday how bad the damage was to the police cars.

Front Street was closed while police investigated. It didn't reopen until 7:50 a.m. Wednesday, according to PennDOT.

Admin leave

City Police Chief Stephen Mazzeo said Wednesday all three officers have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure in such an incident.

Attempts to contact a man who identified himself at Reams' father in a phone call to The News-Item Wednesday evening were unsuccessful Thursday.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Shamokin Area High School announced Thursday the top five students who will graduate with their classmates at 7 p.m. today in the high school gym.

Darien Craft has been named the valedictorian of the class of 2013. Kayla Hart is salutatorian. Third in ranking is Anthony Anonia; fourth, Theodore Deptula, and fifth, Samantha Schiccatano.

Darien Craft

Craft was involved in varsity baseball, varsity swimming, varsity club, Key Club, chemistry club (vice-president), the works club, National Honor Society, math club, science olympiad (secretary), students against bullying club, environmental club, Bible club (president) and dual enrollment. Craft will be attending Bucknell University to major in neuroscience and biomedical engineering with a minor in Spanish and Latin.

He is a son of Iris and Mark Chowka, of Coal Township.

Kayla Hart

Hart's activities throughout her high school career include band, orchestra, science olympiad, National Honor Society, chemistry club (president), key club, Interact club, students against bullying club and dual enrollment. Hart will be attending Wilkes University to pursue a doctorate in pharmacy.

Hart is a daughter of Clifton and Alison Hart, of Coal Township.

Anthony Anonia

Anonia's high school activities included chorus (vice-president), musical, student council, varsity club, SATV (president), Indian Times, National Honor Society, the works club, Students Against Bullying club, SADD club, prom committee, powder puff football, varsity football (captain), varsity wrestling (captain and AA South sectional champion), indoor track, varsity track and field, PHAC all-star (football), Gentlemen Scholar-Athlete Award recipient, Black Diamond Sports "Diamond in the Rough Award" recipient, most-improved athlete (football), wrestling team leadership award and chorale. Anonia will attend King's College (presidential scholarship recipient) to major in chemistry and is included in the "3+2" Dual Degree Program with the University of Notre Dame for chemical engineering.

He is a son of Mark and Christine Anonia, of Paxinos.

Theodore Deptula

Deptula's activities included senior class treasurer, varsity soccer, varsity wrestling, varsity baseball, Bible club (president), SAT Math 700 Club, prom committee, baccalaureate planning committee, student council, National Honor Society, science olympiad, math club, cafeteria focus committee, musical and chorus. Deptula will be attending Penn State University to major in mechanical engineering.

He is a son of Ted and Becky Deptula, of Shamokin.

Samantha Schiccatano

Schiccatano participated in varsity basketball (captain) and was involved in varsity club, National Honor Society, National Honor Society of High School Scholars, student council, the works club, chemistry club, environmental club, Students Against Bullying club and dual enrollment. Schiccatano will attend the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown to pursue a doctorate in pharmacy.

She is a daughter of Matthew and Lori Schiccatano, of Coal Township.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Northumberland County Career and Technology Center (NCCTC) presented the following end-of-year awards at a recent ceremony:

Coal Township Alumni Association Scholarship: $2,500 scholarship award presented by Coal Township Alumni Association to a deserving student - Kiesha Foulds

The Dean Carl Memorial Scholarship: $1,000 scholarship in memory of Dean Carl presented by the Carl familyto a deserving senior student furthering his or her education - Faith Neiter.

Jeremy James Erdman Scholarship: $500 scholarship in memory of Jeremy James Erdman presented by the Erdman family to a deserving senior student furthering his or her education - Austin Baker.

Ohio Technical College Instructor's Scholarship: $2,500 award presented by Daniel Shuman to student attending Ohio Technical College - Austin Baker.

Triangle Tech's Electrical Technology Scholarship: $8,000 award presented by Ronald McElwee to a deserving student who attend Triangle Tech in the fall - Todd Markhorst.

James J. and Patricia C. Rosini Culinary Arts Scholarship: $2,500 scholarship award presented by Patricia Rumberger to a deserving student in culinary arts - Alina Henkle.

Coal Township Alumni Class of 1951: Monetary award presented by Sam Weaver to a Shamokin Area student furthering their education - Chelsea Moroskie.

Shamokin Area Rotary Club Student of the Year: $200 award presented by Judy Drumheller, Rotary president, to a deserving Rotary student of the year - Dalton Frits.

Family Home Medical Award: $100 award presented by Warren D. Altomare to an outstanding health occupation careers student - Samantha Schnee.

Mark A. Serafin Memorial Award: Award presented by Dr. Diane Serafin to a deserving student in culinary arts - John Wondoloski.

Mark A. Serafin Memorial Award: Award presented by Dr. Diane Serafin to a deserving student in automotive technology - Austin Baker.

Sylvia Buriak Memorial Award: $100 award presented by Barry M. Buriak in memory of Sylvia Buriak to a deserving student - Mary McKimm.

Elmer "Tim" Shuey Memorial Award: $250 award presented by Charles Shuey to an outstanding senior student - Michael Merena.

AREA Services Inc. Award: Monetary award for top performance in emergency medical technician class - Joseph Katalinas.

Shamokin Housing Association Lincoln Towers High-Rise Award: $100 award presented by Darrel Dudeck to two welding students - Michael Merena and Sean McDonnell.

Shamokin Area Lions Club Award: $100 award presented by Traci Beck to a deserving senior - Nathan Malett

T.J. Schrader Arcos Award: $250 award presented by Traci Beck to a senior in welding going on to higher education - Michael Merena/

Northumberland County Career and Technology Center Student Achievement Award: $100 award presented by Traci Beck to six deserving students - Destiny Bowers, Dylan Bowers, Crystal Chatterton, Desiree Dannheimer, Miranda Green and Nicholas Vernitsky.

Robert Beierschmitt Award: $50 award presented by Traci Beck to two deserving students - Zachary Straub and Sean McDonnell.

Nicole Bramhall Memorial Award: $100 award presented by Traci Beck to a deserving student - Joseph Katalinas.

IBEW Local 607 Award: $250 award presented to a deserving student in electrical construction - Michael Rodarmel.

PSEA Local 603 Award: $50 award to a deserving senior - Joseph Katalinas.

Dave Barvitskie Award: $25 award presented by Michael Barvitskie to two deserving seniors - Carmine Brogna and Todd Markhorst.

Student Council Award: $50 award presented by Richard Roughton to an outstanding member of student council - Michael Ulrich.

Program Director's Perfect Attendance Award: $25 gift card presented by Traci Beck to the students with perfect attendance - Collin Zalar and Ryan Paczkoskie.

Dressel Award: Presented by Mike Boris to Sean McDonnell.

I almost decided to skip the annual mammogram last year. The results always read the same and last summer's print articles argued against an annual exam after a certain age. The written word is gospel, so I happily allowed myself to be swept along the latest road to medical enlightenment - obviously, I didn't need a mammogram. I got one anyway, only because I had gotten into the habit.

It's fortunate that old habits die hard, because this one saved my life.

From the time you're notified that a second look is needed, you pretty much coast along, convinced that all tests, from the first ultra sound to the final biopsy will confirm that everything's normal, even while the technicians are communing with their diagnostic equipment in a series of beeps that translate into medical jargon. It doesn't become real until the word "cancer" is uttered and then, as you catch your breath from the first blow, they add the words "stage three."

What started out as a non-aggressive cancer had penetrated into my skin, automatically pushing me to a level I wasn't ready to comprehend, let alone deal with. Bless my no-nonsense surgeon.

I was given two options: a lumpectomy, followed by five weeks of radiation, and no guarantee that the cancer wouldn't come back, or a mastectomy. Visions of Sharon danced in my head, and my surgery was scheduled for the end of November.

How do you tell people that you have breast cancer? My family had to know, of course, but only a limited few at work would be informed. First, I didn't want anyone to feel sorry for me. The choice of treatment was all mine and no one else's.

Second, I didn't want people looking at me with puppy dog eyes and telling me how brave I was. Believe me, I wasn't.

Lastly, I needed to focus my attention on the fight ahead of me. I didn't have the time or the energy to make someone else feel better about me. There are few times in life that being selfish is perfectly OK. This was one of them.

Eventually, word got around and my family, co-workers and friends began a prayer list that extended into several zip codes. Words of encouragement filtered through, but I'm afraid they didn't sink in at the time. "God never gives you anything you can't handle." I, at least, had the decency to wait until the person walked away before muttering, "I beg to differ." And when I was reminded that God did this because "He loves you," I'm afraid I countered with the argument that "it sounded like domestic abuse to me." I'm sure by this time, I've been forgiven for my less-than-reverent responses. I'm equally sure there will come a time when God will explain it all to me and I'll be able to confirm what I've suspected all along - He does have a sense of humor.

The surgery and recovery processes are not worth detailing, save for the fact that I met some pretty amazing people on my journey. To mention just a few, there was my visiting nurse, who had been through the same surgical procedure and recovery. Upon discharging me from her care, she handed me her home phone number with the words, "If you have to have chemo and need to talk or need encouragement to get through the day, call me."

I note a newly hired co-worker, who informed me that she was cancer free for 10 years. "If I can help, call me," she said, as she walked away reminding me that we were now sisters.

I can't leave out another co-worker who was diagnosed with cancer a few months earlier. Immediately after my diagnosis, I informed him that he and I would be walking the survivor lap in the next Relay for Life. It's a promise I mean to keep. A lot of people told me that attitude was the key to dealing with cancer, and if anyone can cop an attitude, it would be me.

After the mastectomy, I compared my new look to that of a unicorn, a rare and unusual creature. If anyone stared at me, they'd probably stare at a unicorn, too. I was soon ready to take up the fight and win. And then came chemotherapy.

It's important to mention that right before my treatments, my oncologist gave me the good news that my cancer was not stage three, but had been down graded to stage two. We were still going to go with aggressive treatment, but the bigger picture had just shifted. I was handed a miracle. Chemotherapy's side effects differ with each person, and since no two people are alike, I won't bore anyone with the details. I will say that, after the first treatment, I literally had my hand on the phone to call my doctor and tell him he needed to find a better way. Other days were better and I felt like myself. I projected my thoughts to the date of my last chemo treatment, then set up my screensaver to checkoff the treatments remaining until the final one. One more in February, one in March, two in April. I could do this.

Nothing prepares you for the hair loss. Not even an adorable wig from Raquel Welch's line. The night I shaved off the rest of my hair, looking in the mirror, it is the first time since this began that I feel like a cancer victim. Because I feel different, I think I'll be stared at and treated differently. Vanity, thy name is Mary Ann.

To cheer myself up, I came up with a list of five reasons why being hairless is good. The best one came as I lay my newly shorn head upon my pillow to sleep. I also set two goals for myself. One was a shopping trip to Victoria's Secret and the other was to walk in the Relay for Life. Victoria's Secret may have to wait awhile longer, but in my mind's eye I saw myself walking on that track. I may be a little lopsided, but my hair is coming back in curls. The best part is that I'm walking valiantly with all the others who have been stricken or affected by cancer and made their way out of the dark. I am one of them now - I am a survivor.

If you've every watched "The Actor's Studio," you know that the guest is asked 10 questions devised by a famous French host many years ago. The last question is, "If Heaven exists, what would you like God to say to you when you arrive at the Pearly Gates." That's an easy one. Many people think life is a series of tests that either make you or break you. I want God to greet me with a big smile, a small wink, and say, "You passed!"

WEIKERT - A Coal Township man who reportedly fell and was submerged in Penns Creek for at least 20 minutes while fishing Wednesday afternoon passed away later in the day at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.

Thomas Patrick, who reportedly was in his late 40s, was pronounced dead Wednesday night at the medical center, according to a hospital spokeswoman.

Patrick was initially transported to Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg before being flown by Life Flight helicopter to Geisinger following the incident that occurred at approximately 3 p.m.

According to reports in The Daily Item of Sunbury, Patrick's friend, Jerome Barcavage, of Coal Township, said both men were fishing for about 35 minutes on Penns Creek near the end of Pardee Road, just east of the Union County Sportsman Club and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Patrick, who was wearing jeans and a T-shirt but no waders, was in the creek and went to reach for something when he slipped, said Barcavage, who was about 25 feet away on the creek bank.

Underwater at least 20 minutes

The incident happened in a remote location where cell phone reception is spotty at best.

Barcavage's screams caught the attention of a nearby mother and three teens who had just arrived to swim and fish in Penns Creek.

Jennifer Horne, of Glen Iron, drove off to call 911 and summon assistance.

The Daily Item reported Alex Horne, 18, of Glen Iron, and Dana Roberts, 17, of Millmont, immediately jumped in the water to search for Patrick, while Edward Aikey, 17, of Millmont, kept watch on the creek bank for signs of Patrick.

The first ambulance arrived in about 15 minutes, Roberts said. Several other medical and fire units responded to the scene and members of West End Fire Company eventually found Patrick, who was pulled from the creek by emergency personnel from Mifflinburg.

Emergency medical technicians worked on Patrick for about 20 minutes, Barcavage said, and were able to get a pulse before transporting him to Evangelical Community Hospital.

The spot where Patrick fell varies in depth from 6 to 12 feet. The temperature in the creek was approximately 50 degrees.

Witnessses told The Daily Item that Patrick was under water between 20 and 40 minutes.

All centers will be closed on Friday, June 14 in observance of Flag Day.

Shamokin-Coal Township

Monday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; yoga, 9:30 a.m.; aerobics, 10 a.m.; crafts, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; bridge, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; bridge lessons, 9:30 a.m.; AAA picnic at Knoebels, van leaves at 9 a.m.

Thursday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; yoga, 9:30 a.m.; aerobics, 10 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Saturday - Cards, 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Mount Carmel

Monday - Wii bowling, 10 a.m.; HSIM exercise, 11 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; bean bag, 12:30 p.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Tuesday - Coffee and the news, 10 a.m.; Chit chat, 10:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; Unlucky 7s, 12:30 p.m.; CSFP re-registration, 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. and 12:45 to 2 p.m.

Wednesday - Chit chat, 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; Knoebels picnic.

Thursday - Current events, 9 a.m.; favorite TV show, 11 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle, 12:15 p.m.

Kulpmont

Monday - Wii in the morning; bean bag, 10:30 a.m.; Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Wii, knitting and noodle balloon in the morning; pinochle-cards, noon; Bible study, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - AAA picnic at Knoebels Pavilion F, center will be closed in the afternoon.

Thursday - Noodle balloon in the morning; Wii, 10 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Centralia-Wilburton

Monday - Bring a Friend Day.

Tuesday - Pain management at Hood facility, Geisinger.

Wednesday - Center closed for Senior Day at Knoebels.

Thursday - Cards and bingo.

Elysburg

Monday - Healthy Steps, 8:30 a.m.; Rummy Royal, 10:30 a.m.; Pokeno, noon.

Wednesday - Healthy Steps, 8:30 a.m.; VNA blood pressure/blood sugar screening, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.; Rummy Royal, 10:30 a.m.; bingo, noon. AAA picnic at Knoebels.

Thursday - Crafts, 9:30 a.m.; pinochle, noon.

Trevorton

Monday - Wii games, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.; exercise, 10:30 a.m.; Games, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Exercise, 9:30 a.m.; movie and snack, 12:30 p.m.; evening bingo, 6 p.m.

Wednesday - AAA picnic at Knoebels; Bingo 1 to 4 p.m.

Thursday - Exercise, 9:30 a.m.; Scrabble, 10:30 a.m.; Session 6 of Chronic Disease Management, 1 to 3:30 p.m.