LOCK HAVEN - Rachel Niglio, of Kulpmont, was named to the dean's list for academic achievement at Lock Haven University for the spring semester, earning a grade-point average of 4.0.

Niglio is a health science major with a concentration in pre-physician's assistant. She is a 2010 graduate of Mount Carmel Area High School.

She is a daughter of Paul and Stephanie Niglio, of Kulpmont, and a granddaughter of Paul and Helene Niglio, of Kulpmont, and Josephine and Stephen Nemchick, of Mount Carmel.

SUNBURY - Police remain on guard after a "credible threat" was made on Sunbury officers believed to be in retaliation for the shooting of a 17-year-old male following a car pursuit early Wednesday morning.

Police chief Stephen Mazzeo reported Friday the Northumberland County 911 Center received a call at approximately 7 p.m. Wednesday from a person who claimed he was going to come to Sunbury and harm officers.

"You shot my cousin seven times," the man told a dispatcher. "Now, I will shoot seven cops."

Police said only one shot was fired at Naheem Reams, 17, after the teen allegedly drove a 1997 Saturn into two police vehicles and attempted to run over a police officer. According to an investigation by state police, the officer simultaneously jumped out of the path of the vehicle and fired a shot through the front windshield, hitting Reams.

Reams remained in critical condition as of 3 p.m. Friday, according to a Geisinger Medical Center spokesperson.

Protocol in place

While the caller who threatened police said he was coming from Los Angeles, Mazzeo said the call was traced to a known member of a Bloods gang in New York, and that the threat is being taken seriously.

"We have our threat protocols in place and the matter is under investigation, but we are not taking any chances with this," the chief said Friday morning.

The threat marked the latest tense moment for police since the shooting incident. Other derogatory remarks and promises of violence were posted by Reams' friends on Facebook, but Mazzeo said he is not as worried about those as he is about the phone call.

"I don't put much stock in Facebook, but the call will be something we will definitely look into and prepare for," Mazzeo said. "The people that have been saying those comments (online) about the police are people that have a negative view of the department anyway."

Street sweeping detail

The incident began when Sunbury Police Department was attempting to clear local streets of vehicles for weekly street cleaning at approximately 1 a.m. Wednesday. 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.

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."

The officer, who has not been identified due to the ongoing investigation, suffered a minor head injury and was treated and released from a local hospital following the incident. State police at Stonington are investigating the shooting and the three city police officers have been placed on administrative leave.

Once the investigation is complete, the findings will be handed over to the Northumberland County District Attorney's office, who will review the information and make a determination on whether the shooting was justified.

Officers surprised

According to Mazzeo, officers were surprised that Reams reacted the way he did because they only asked him to move his car.

"The officers had no idea who the individual was, or if he was wanted for anything. They were merely on sweeper detail," Mazzeo said.

William Rossnock, chief juvenile probation officer for Northumberland County, said a warrant was issued for Reams on May 20, but Russnock would not provide it's details. He also chose not to say why Reams is under the probation department's supervision because of the investigation into Wednesday's shooting.

Force is strong

Despite the administrative leave orders, Mazzeo said the police force is strong.

"We still have full-time officers working," Mazzeo said. "It's costing us some overtime, but all of the officers are handling it professionally and very well."

Mazzeo could not give details of the damage on the police vehicles, citing the investigation, but said the vehicles are usable.

"Once the state completes its investigation, we will be getting them fixed and submitting the claim to our insurance company," The chief said.

SUNBURY - It was a good day for Diane Serafin.

After retiring Friday as a teacher from the Shamokin Area School District after 33 years, she pulled the winning number to break the tie in the Republican nomination for Shamokin Area School Board.

The action puts Serafin, who broke the tie with Matthew Reed Losiewicz, on the Republican ballot in the November election with Edward M. Griffiths, Rosalie Smoogen and Richard A. Kashnoski.

Griffiths, Smoogen, Kashnoski and Losiewicz are also on the Democratic ballot.

There are five candidates for four open positions on the school board.

The tie-breaker process, which was moderated by Alisha Herb, director of the county Bureau of Elections, at the Northumberland County Administration Building, lasted less than five minutes. Each candidate randomly drew one of 16 numbered pills, and the person who drew the higher number won.

Losiewicz pulled the number one and Serafin pulled the number six, and the candidates immediately hugged and wished each other luck.

Later, Serafin said she was proud of Losiewicz, whom she taught when he was in school.

The tie-breaker process also determined that Bernard Novakoski won the Republican nomination for the mayor of Kulpmont over Nicholas Goretski, which means the race is over.

Novakoski also won the Democratic nomination in May.

Novakoski drew the number 10 and county Commissioner Stephen Bridy, who was representing Goretski, drew the number eight.

CATAWISSA RR - Southern Columbia Area High School held its annual awards day program, with the following seniors earning awards:

Elysburg Rotary Club Service above Self Award ($1,000) - Maria Scicchitano.

Jane Quinton Memorial Scholarships ($500 each) - Nursing, Abby Menefee; music, Danielle Knoeppel.

Locust Township Police Officers Association ($500) - Rachael Gleeson.

Catawissa Garden Club Rae Atherton Memorial Scholarship ($200) - Anthony Chiavaroli.

Debbie's Day Care Scholarship ($100) - Reba Broadfield.

Roaring Creek Valley Grange Awards ($100 each) - Kelly Henry and Karl Myhre.

Knoebel Brothers Hog and Grain Scholarship ($500) - Karl Myhre.

Ralpho Area Women's Club ($250) - Kayla Lavella.

Hospice Memorial Nursing Scholarship ($200) - Abby Menefee.

Stephen G. Talarovich Memorial Scholarship ($250 each) - Kayla Lavella and Jasmine Olvany.

SCEA Tiger Paw Scholarships ($1,000) - Marisa Rhodes.

National Honor Society Award ($200) - Maria Scicchitano.

American Red Cross Life Share Award ($300) - Kelly Henry.

Independent Study Student of the Year (certificate) - Design, Olivia Greene; medical, Kathy Koschoff-Rapkin; psychology, Rose-Ellen Fahringer, and criminal justice, Casey Bernhard.

Outstanding Visual Artist Awards ($200 each) - Jasmine Olvany, Kelly Henry and Erin Fitzpatrick.

Marilyn Henry Memorial Scholarships - $125, Bryce Parry, and $100, Kimberly Allen.

Catawissa American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship ($1,000) - Katie Dunkelberger.

Sons of Catawissa American Legion Post 541 Scholarship ($1,000) - Jeffrey Hall.

Catawissa American Legion Post 541 Commanders Award ($1,000) - Andrew Sassani.

Catawissa American Legion Post 541 Home Association Award ($1,000) - Kayla Lavella.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Catawissa Post 8306 ($1,000 each) - Kirstin Blass and Jasmine Olvany.

Catawissa VFW Voice of Democracy Essay Awards - First place ($200), McKenna Lupold; second place ($150), Matthew Lupold; third place ($100), Maddie Stabinski.

Regina Huber Scholarship VFW Post 8306 Ladies Auxiliary ($500) - Shelby Petro.

Bloomsburg Elks Past Exalted Rulers Scholarship ($300) - Morgan Fulmer.

Navy Outstanding Athletes and Scholars Awards (certificates) - Male athlete, Jacob Becker; female athlete, Kirstin Blass; male scholar, Andrew Sassani; female scholar, Maria Scicchitano.

Navy Inspirational Leader Award (certificate) - Anthony Chiavaroli.

First Columbia Bank and Trust Co. ($500) - Olivia Potter.

Tricia Shutt Memorial Scholarship - Maria Scicchitano.

FBLA Award ($250) - Bethany Adamski.

Cooperative Education Student of the Year ($250) - Abby Menefee.

Ralpho Township Business Association Award ($500) - Katie Dunkelberger.

Derek Crowl Academic Memorial Scholarships ($400 each) - Joseph Kleman and Bryce Parry.

Joseph Makowski Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) - Olivia Potter.

Ralpho Township Alumni/ Alvin Pensyl Memorial - Morgan Fidler and Megan Chaundy.

Anthony A. Abraczinskas Jr. Memorial Scholarships - $200, Katie Dunkelberger; $200, Kendra Jones; $50, Kirstin Blass; $50, Anthony Chiavaroli; $50, Marisa Rhodes, and $50, Kathryn Varano.

Elysburg Garden Club ($200) - Kayla Broom.

Eric Rhoads Mt. Zion Memorial Scholarship - Kaitlin Mowery.

Central Susquehanna Builders Association Women's Council Award ($1,000, certificate) - Dylan Swank.

Terry Stellfox Academic/Athletic Scholarship ($250) - Megan Chaundy.

Terry Stellfox Music Award ($250) - Marisa Rhodes.

The Carissa Berkheiser Memorial Scholarship ($500) - Morgan Fidler.

Stanley (Danny) Quinn Memorial Scholarships ($100 each) - Softball, Mallory Tomaschik; baseball, Tyler Behrent.

Catawissa Lumber Scholarship ($500 each) - Dylan Swank and Mallory Tomaschik.

Northumberland County Recreation Committee Scholar/Athlete ($100 each)- Maria Scicchitano and Jeffrey Hall.

Aqua PA Water Company Roaring Creek Division Science Achievement Award ($200) - Alyssa Keller.

William E. Hoffner Post Secondary Education Award ($1,000)- Celeste Valencik

The SCA Positive Role Model Award in honor of Brent Kelchner ($100) - Alec Tobaygo.

The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce Scholarship ($100) - Tasha Tasker.

Values and Character Awards - Jacob Becker and Marisa Rhodes.

12th-Grade Technology Education Achievement Award ($75) - Dylan Swank.

David Walburn Memorial Scholarship ($100) - William Wertman.

Calvin Henderson Memorial Award ($500) - Jacob Becker.

Shoup Family Scholarship ($3,000 per year for four years)- Maria Scicchitano.

Poppy Grace McCoog Memorial Scholarship ($100) - Kathryn Varano.

SCA Language Award ($400) - Amber Srednicki.

The Sandy Rarig Language Award ($100) - Jasmine Olvany.

Bryan Day Memorial Scholarship - Robbie Spotts, Dylan Swank, Anthony Chiavaroli and Shelby Petro.

Southern Columbia perfect attendance for the year- Grade 9, Gregory Delbo; Grade 10, Samantha Gregorowicz, Kyle Mostik, Adam Weissert, Cheyenne Welkom; Grade 11, John Gennaria, Cody Olson, Kc Welkom, Michael Willholt; Grade 12, Anthony Chiavaroli, Shawn Sevison

John D. Hughes Memorial Scholarship ($500)- Kelly Henry

Margaret E. Artley Memorial Scholarship ($200)- Chantal Varano

Freda Dalious Memorial Scholarships - ($300), Maria Scicchitano; ($200), Kirstin Blass

Jill Bidelspach Rouse Writing Award ($500)- Abby Menefee

SCA Music Booster Scholarships ($250 each)- Marisa Rhodes; Danielle Knoeppel; Nick Tyson; Bethany Adamski

Girls Soccer Booster Scholarship ($500)- Kelly Henry

Boys Soccer Booster Scholarship - ($200), Jeffrey Hall, and ($100), Dylan Swank.

Boys Basketball Booster Scholarships ($300 each) - Matthew Klock and Bryce Parry.

Top Notch Woodworks Athletic Acievement Awards - Kelly Henry and Bryce Parry.

Eric Barnes Memorial Scholarship ($500)- Taylor Young.

Tarik Leghlid Memorial Scholarship ($750) - Ryan Cherwinski.

Ronald Scott Kohler Memorial Scholarship ($3,300) - Jacob Becker.

The Justin DeGreen Memorial Scholarship Fund ($500) - William Wertman.

District IV Female Sportsmanship Award (plaque) - Kirstin Blass.

District IV Male Sportsmanship Award (plaque) - Jacob Becker.

District IV Outstanding Female Athlete (plaque) - Mallory Tomaschik.

District IV Outstanding Male Athlete (plaque )- Joseph Kleman.

SCA Female MVP (plaque) - Kayla Lavella.

SCA Male MVP (plaque)- Bryce Parry.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Shamokin Area High School Class of 2013 valedictorian, Darien Levi Craft, told his classmates Friday night to make sure their feet are in the right place, stand firm and follow their hearts while they move into reality and receive true freedom.

Craft's message was one of several inspiring addresses presented during commencement exercises for 148 graduates in a jam-packed high school auditorium.

Other class speakers included salutatorian Kayla Marie Hart, class president Paul Gurba, vice president Andrew Hasuga, secretary Ciana Rollman and treasurer Theodore Deptula.

Principal Chris Venna delivered his traditional, humorous, advice-filled farewell message to the graduates, and Superintendent James Zack offered brief remarks.

Never give up

Craft urged his classmates to never give up on themselves, always put forth their best effort and have no regrets as they move on to new endeavors.

"Look not at what others are doing, but look inward at one's own beliefs," he said.

Craft, who said it was important to never forget one's "true roots," talked about various experiences his class enjoyed during the past four years.

He said, "Do not take things for granted. Work towards everything you hope to achieve in life. Rise to the occasion, set yourself apart and be someone worth remembering."

Craft was joined by his classmates in giving the traditional gesture of moving the tassels from the right to the left side of their caps, said, "Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow."

He added, "In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years. Live life to the fullest, take advantage of every opportunity available and always take time to relax and enjoy life for what it is."

'Be happy!'

Hart thanked parents, other family members, faculty, coaches, administrators and school board members for their support, knowledge, talents and guidance in providing students a great education and fun-filled high school experience.

She stated, "Throughout high school, we not only grew as individuals, discovering aspects about ourselves and maturing, but also as a group, creating bonds and friendships. As we move on to the next chapter of our lives, we will look back on the times and memories spent at Shamokin Area with each other."

Hart concluded, "Cherish and embrace each moment and whatever you do in life, be happy! I hope you had the time of your life and continue to do so in the future. We are coal region proud with Indian pride."

Gurba, Hasuga and Rollman talked about the past, present and future, respectively.

Gurba reminisced about the experiences members of his class have been part of during the past 13 years, starting with kindergarten.

The class president said, "All of us have dreamt of this day for so long. Take a moment to think of that dream that you once had. Did you accomplish your dream? For those that did, you are to be commended for your efforts and should have an abundant feeling of satisfaction. However, for those that did not, do not give up. Learn from your mistakes, establish a new goal and realize that you are receiving a second chance to make yourself a better person. What will you do with that second chance?"

"Congratulations not only to us as graduates, but also congratulations to our parents, friends, families and teachers," commented Hasuga. "Our success is your success, for you have given us the freedom to dare, the courage to excel and the belief that we can achieve our best."

He told his classmates, "Look around you. We are about to say goodbye to the place that we've called home for the past six years. The place that has given us the knowledge and wisdom to take on the world as adults. I ask you to cherish these final moments because whether we know it or not, our lives are about to change tremendously."

Rollman, who praised class advisers Stephen Keller and Shannon Anderson for their dedication and guidance through the years, stated, "We have come tonight as students, but we are leaving as young adults entering a whole new world. So, remember all the things high school taught you and never take anything for granted. I wish the best of luck in the future you wish to pursue."

Deptula presented Venna with the class gift - commemorative Shamokin Area banners that will hang from light posts on the school campus.

"Our class gift, like last year, is one of school spirit," Deptula said. "The gift represents the pride that we have in our school and our community. Our gift reminds us of where we came from and to whom we will always be loyal and true."

Lucky 13

Venna, who told class members they were a pleasure to work with through the years, made several references about how the number 13 can be lucky and unlucky while donning a large leprechaun hat to illustrate his point.

He said the Class of 2013 was lucky in many ways, but also made its own luck. Venna noted the graduates began their educational careers in the year 2000, which marked a new millennium. He said the class experienced many advances in technology in social media.

But the high school principal said the class also has lived through some tough times including the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and the Flood of 2011 that damaged many properties in the Shamokin area.

While comparing luck to being good, Venna drew cheers and jeers from the capacity crowd when he said the Philadelphia Phillies were "lucky" when they won the World Series in 2008, while the New York Yankees beat the Phillies in the 2009 World Series because they were "good."

Venna said he doesn't buy into luck, but adheres to the words of President Thomas Jefferson who stated, "The harder I work, the more I have of it (luck)."

Venna said the Class of 2013 was probably the best he's had since serving as principal. He commended class members for attaining success in many areas through discipline, focus, commitment, enthusiasm and a positive attitude. "You carried yourselves with dignity and pride," he said.

Venna then presented the graduates to Zack, who recognized and congratulated the class.

Zack told the class, "I'm confident you will meet the challenges ahead."

School board president Brian Persing distributed diplomas while assistant high school principal Tony Carnuccio read the names of the graduates.

Members of the high school chorale sang "For Good" and "Irish Blessing" during the program.

After the singing of the alma mater, graduates recessed from the auditorium and received hugs, kisses and handshakes from family members and friends.

Graduates

Graduates include Brendan Xavier Anderson, Kenneth Lee Anderson, Sarina Rose Angstadt, Anthony Santino Salvator Anonia, Austin G. Baker, David Michael Bernsteel, Mariah Lynn Bielski, Coby Kyle Billhime, Savannah Rae Black, Destiny Marie Bowers, Dylan Ronald Bowers, Kortney Irene Bozza, Emily Michelle Bridy, Sarah Elizabeth Britton, Carmine William Brogna Jr., Rosa Ayanna Brown, Miranda Suzanne Canouse, Jacob Robert Carey, Jonathan Scott Carl, Kevin Stanley Carsto and John Rudolpho Thomas Castillo.

Michaela Quinn Caulder, Jaime Ken Charowsky, Angelica Robin Clymer, Alexandria Jayne Comly, Michelle Lynn Cover, Darien Levi Craft, Desiree Ann Dannheimer, Jonathan Jordan Deitrick, Julian Christian Deitrick, Theodore David Deptula, Karrah Nicole Derk, Daniel Joseph DiMauro, Rebekak Hope Dietterick, Jacob Vincent Domanski, Adella Marie Doncheski, Stephanie Marie Dressler, Amber Lynn Erdman, Michelle Elizabeth Etzel, Briar Samuel Forbes, Marlena Ann Ford and Kiesha Lynn Foulds.

Austin Todd Fry, Erica Lee Gammon, Matthew Christopher Gass, Jordan Walter Glosek, Paul Thomas Gurba III, Kathleen Marie Gusick, Abbygail Grace Halderman, Ian Michael Hancock, Kayla Marie Hart, Nikole Chantal Hartman, Andrew Daniel Hasuga, Molly Rose Hasuga, Sarajane Healey, Siera Faith Hornberger, Brad Michael James, Kaitlyn Marie Jurewicz, Tiffany Ann Kachurka, Brittanie Diana Kahle, Amber Linn Kehler, Ashley Marie Keiser and Amber Noel Kelly.

Veronica Frances Kiefer, Angela Victoria Silvano Kinder, Michael Patrick Kindle, Brandi Nicole Kleman, Nicholas Joseph Kleman, Falynn Marie Kroh, Alicia Leann Lahr, Stephen Francis Latsha, Kristen Lynn Lebo, Andrew Joseph Leeman, Marissa Kate Leshock, Shannon Michelle Levi, Joshua Robert Linn, Kyle Timothy Maguire, Nathan Jacob Malett, Victoria Lynn Mangiaruga, Todd James Markhorst, Amber Lynn Martin, Kyla Nicole Martin, Luis Enriques Martinez, Molly Kathryn McDevitt, Ashley Lynn McElhone and Courtney Nikole McGrath.

Emily Elizabeth McHale, Mary Ann McKimm, Michael Merena, Donna Ann Miller, Joseph Peter Miscavage, Matthew Scott Montgomery, Chelsea Lynn Moroskie, Ashley Rachelle Mulkins, Tyler Quinton Mummey, Christie Tiona Munson, Faith Alexandra Neiter, Christopher James Orner, Autumn Lee Peck, Angelina Marie Perocier, Derrick Michael Persing, Alaina Nicole Petrovich, Angela Leah Piaggio, Christopher Charles Pierce, Sarah Lynn Purcell, Bunnie Lou Radel, Jessica Ellen Ramer, Matthew Evan Reichner and Michael Charles Rodarmel.

Ciana Marie Rollman, Ryan Anthony Rompolski, Brandon Lee Rook, Deanna Rae Rosini, Dominick Michael Rudy, Rebecca Lynn Rummel, Brittany Micheala Samms, Zachari Francis Santey, Samantha Rose Schiccatano, Samantha Rose Schnee, Collin James Scicchitano, Brandi Cheyenne Segura, Megan Elizabeth Sheriff, Rheanna Marie Shingara, Matthew James Shultz, Samantha Keigh Spishock, Zachary James Straub, Erika Nicole Strausser, Samantha Jo Strausser, Devon John Sullivan, Jerome Steven Tanner Jr., Katlin Elizabeth Trifiletti and Kylie Lynn Troutman.

Michael Richard Ulrich, Nicholas Joseph Vernitsky, Sean Douglas Wagner, Cailin Ann Wilson, Elizabeth Rose Evelyn Witkowski, Shiloh Marie Witmer, Brent Thomas Wondoloski, John Wondoloski Jr., Kelsey Rachele Yacko, Edward Wilbert Yoder, Kirsten Breauna Yoder, Brody Schuyler Young, Michael Leslie Yucha Jr., Alex Joseph Zalar, Collin Ray Zalar and Matthew Gerald Zosh.

Mayor plans walking tours

MOUNT CARMEL - Mayor J. Kevin Jones will conduct walking tours of the borough next week to look for code violations.

The tour schedule is as follows: Monday, first ward; Tuesday, second ward; Thursday, third ward, and Friday, fourth ward.

Forest Hill scholarship available

COAL TOWNSHIP - Forest Hill Fire Company scholarships are available to graduating seniors of area high schools. Each applicant must meet all of the requirements to be considered and the applicant must be a child or grandchild of an active "A" fire company member.

For complete details, apply at the fire company during business hours. No phone calls please.

MOUNT CARMEL - Five members of Court Our Lady of Victory No. 588, of Mount Carmel, attended the 50th biennial Catholic Daughters convention in State College from April 26 to 29. They were, Mary Catherine Wydra, regent; Judith Hooper, vice regent; Rosemarie Koronkiewicz, financial secretary; Nora Avellino, treasurer, and Mary Snyder, color guard.

At the opening Mass celebrated by Bishop Mark Bartchak of the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese, Hooper and Snyder took the formal CDA pledge administered by the Rev. D. Timothy Grimme, state chaplain and Margaret Novak, state regent. Snyder was also selected to serve as color guard and escort for the first vice state regent.

The theme for the Friday evening banquet was "Somewhere Over The Rainbow." Pat Gildea, state parliamentarian, gave an explanation of how the rainbow is connected with God and our faith. Her presentation was followed with a talent contest of each diocese performing a five-minute rainbow-theme skit. Court Our Lady of Victory, representing the Harrisburg Diocese, won first place for its skit pertaining to colors and attitudes.

State officers were nominated at the business meeting Saturday, and an election was held Sunday. Circle of Love reports were given by each chairperson. The state court will continue to move ahead with the proposal to host the 2016 national CDA convention in Pittsburgh.

Court Our Lady of Victory won the following awards: Second place, newsletter; third place, membership, and third place, education/art contest with the art work submitted by Mary Frances Komara from Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School. The women also attended a memorial Mass Saturday, an installation of new state officers Mass Sunday and a patriotic and safe travel Mass Monday.

Avellino, Hooper, Snyder and Wydra also became charter members of the first state CDA choir.

A tailgate party was held to roast Novak, the outgoing state regent. Court Our Lady of Vistory presented Novak with a signed copy of the Rev. Frank Karwacki's book, "Science Through the Eyes of Faith," and a statue of St. Pauline Visintainer.

One hundred fifty-seven Catholic Daughters attended the convention, representing 50 courts and each of the state's eight dioceses.

BLOOMSBURG - Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania has released its list of students named to the dean's list for the spring semester. To qualify for the dean's list, a student must earn a quality-point average of 3.5 or higher (based on 4.0) during the semester.

Ashland - April E. Brennan, Kimberly R. McIntyre, Kayla A. Oxenrider, Sharon Pitcavage.

Atlas - Cassandra Mace.

Catawissa - Ralph Beishline, Desirae Buxton, Nicholas Diak, Montana Drumheller, Cady L. Faust, Zachary M. Hampton, Kurt Henrie, Ryan D. Keefer, Krista L. Kobbe, Kayla M. McCloskey, Janelle M. Pratt, Taylor Rhodes, Megan Rose, Lynn M. Shannon, Charles H. Sienkiewicz.

Coal Township - Kimberly M. Bills, Preston Ford, Abby E. Kulenguskey, Kallie Liendo, Allison E. Milbrand, Kaitlyn P. Sienkiewicz.

Dalmatia - Kyle E. Long, Alexis Wasko.

Elysburg - Alyssa R. Bobber, Aaron Brophy, Elizabeth C. Dorkoski. David L. Fegley. Kristen M. Klock, Hannah R. Mitchell, Stefanie A. Morris, Marissa C. Noll, Alexandra Oley, Stephen R. Roth, Kyle A. Snarski, Tessa R. Varias.

Herndon - Lauren A. Erdman, Christina L. Lahr, Chad D. Levan, Betsy K. Renn, Lindi S. Snyder.

Kulpmont - Brooke E. Bartol, Kimberly A. Brennan, Amanda M. Feudale, Amanda Gidaro. Carissa Pupo, Kirsten Sinopoli, Samantha Spieller.

Locust Gap - Janeen E. Nahodil.

Marion Heights - Casey N. Smink.

Mount Carmel - Mary Campbell, Abbi Grabowski, Raymond A. Heromin, Kyle J. Higgins, Megan R. Minnig, Jared R. Morgan, Jonathan Thomas, Robert M. Varano, Amanda Yuschock.

Paxinos - Nicholas Gallinot, Rachel M. Rebuck, Kayla Jo Kaminskie, Kevin J. Mostik, Jordan B. Shiko, David L. Shoop, Kayla Sommers, Donald R. Wilson, Aaron Yoder.

Shamokin - Jennifer Corcoran, Derek P. Degennaro, Tyler Dirienzo, Diana Haas, Drew A. Hoffman, John M. Katona, Tyann V. McGinn, Brandon Noll, Alexandria Reed, Sarah E. Reed, Brittany Reid.

Sunbury - Amanda Benfer, Jennifer G. Carpenter, Gary G. Daddario, David T. Evans, Victoria E. Evans, Abraham Freet, Michael P. Gimino, McKensie J. Haines, Shanne K. Hoffman, Lindsay B. Johnson. Tad Kalcich, Kory Kramer, Kyle T. Nicholas, Michael Sokalzuk, Amy M. Thomas, Lita R. White, Kevin Williams.

Trevorton - Rachel E. Fisher.

SHAMOKIN - Mother Cabrini Church of Shamokin has finalized plans for its 18th annual parish picnic at the Ranshaw Civic Association (RCA) grounds Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The picnic is one of the biggest events sponsored by the parish and gives every member of the church an opportunity to gather and work together as a family and build a community of spirit.

Times for the picnic are 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, 3 to 10 p.m. Saturday, and 2 to 10 p.m. Sunday. The picnic will be held rain or shine.

Soundwave will provide music from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, 3 to 9 p.m. Saturday, and 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday. The Shoreliners will perform from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday.

The festivities began with a pre-picnic pierogie sale held last week at the Mother Cabrini Shed on Webster Street as well as the sale of church lottery calendars for June. A bake sale will be held at Mother Cabrini Church Hall after the 4 p.m. Mass Saturday and after all Masses Sunday.

The picnic committee said no outside food or beverages will be allowed on the grounds. Pets also are prohibited from the picnic unless they are service animals that are properly identified.

A variety of delicious homemade ethnic food and specialties will be available including hamburgers, potato pierogies, potato cakes, Polish pigeons, haluski, sausage hoagies, funnel cakes, french fries, hot dogs, ice cream, sno-cones, James' Pizza and more.

There will be plenty of refreshments for all ages, games for adults and a variety of kiddie games.

A raffle stand, a seasonal lottery stand/decoration and a prizes galore/theme basket tent also will be available.

The public is invited to attend the picnic.

SUNBURY - A 49-year-old Mount Carmel woman charged with injuring a pedestrian with a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and drugs pleaded guilty to a felony offense Tuesday morning and was sentenced to 5 years of intermediate punishment, including 90 days on house arrest.

Cheryl Twiggs, of 250 S. Poplar St., pleaded guilty to aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI and was sentenced by Judge Charles Saylor. In addition to intermediate punishment, Twiggs must complete the county's DUI court program. She will begin house arrest upon being paroled from Northumberland County Prison in Sunbury and was given credit for 119 days previously served in jail.

Twiggs also was ordered to make fines and costs and make restitution.

Additional charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, careless driving and driving at an unsafe speed were not prosecuted.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Townshop Patrolman Daniel Politza.

Police said the charges relate to a Feb. 8 two-vehicle accident in the 800 block of West Fifth Street that injured pedestrian Gerard Koveleskie, of Mount Carmel.

Police reported Twiggs had a blood-alcohol content of .145 percent and also was driving under the influence of Cotinine, Nicotine, Theobromine, Delta-9 Carboxy THC, Oxycodone and Paroxetine.

SHAMOKIN - A woman who went to Shamokin Police Station Monday evening to report her 15-year-old daughter missing has been charged with stealing a patrolman's cell phone and causing damage to its components.

Robin Krych, 37, of 308 W. Mulberry St., Apt. 3, is in Northumberland County Prison after being arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III on misdemeanors of theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, theft of lost or mislaid property, criminal mischief and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Krych was committed to prison after failing to post $15,000 cash bail at her 10:50 p.m. Monday arraignment.

She is charged by Cpl. Bryan Primerano with stealing a Samsung Galaxy S4 cell phone owned by Patrolman William Miner and valued at $600. Miner dropped the phone at about 5:30 p.m. while talking to the defendant about her missing teen outside the police station at 511 N. Franklin St. He said he didn't realize he dropped the phone until a short time later.

Police said Krych initially denied taking the phone, but officers were later informed by an associate of Krych that she had possession of it. When police confronted Krych at her apartment, she admitted to the theft and granted permission to police to enter her residence, where the phone was found partially dismantled.

Police said components of the phone were being installed and downloaded to a computer. Police reported the "sim" card on the phone was damaged and the memory had been cleared.

At 9 p.m., Primerano, Miner, Cpl. Jarrod Scandle and Police Chief Edward Griffiths served a search warrant obtained from Gembic at Krych's apartment. In addition to recovering Miner's phone, police confiscated the computer, its accessories and memory devices. Police also discovered a plastic marijuana smoking pipe that said belongs to Krych.

When asked why she stole Miner's cell phone, Krych told police she wanted to clear out the memory and reuse it.

As for the missing teen, Miner said she was located and returned home.

Boyfriend charged

On Tuesday, Primerano also charged Krych's live-in boyfriend, Miguel Martinez, 36, with possession of drug paraphernalia in connection with the search of the home.

Martinez was arraigned at about 4 p.m. by Gembic and committed to the county prison in lieu of $10,000 cash bail.

The corporal said Krych and Martinez previously lived in Florida, where Martinez has outstanding warrants pending.

SHAMOKIN - Sanctions against the Shamokin Housing Authority (SHA) are possible over its refusal to provide federal housing subsidies to a tenant, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) said in a letter last month.

The tenant, Brenda Everett, of Shamokin, meanwhile, on Thursday sued the authority and its executive director, Ronald Miller, in U.S. Middle District Court in Williamsport over the issue.

She claims SHA has withheld subsidies for the apartment she lives in with her two disabled daughters for the past nine months. She's asking the court for an injunction to process a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher she transferred from Harrisburg to Shamokin. She's also asking that her participation in the assistance program not be terminated prior to a hearing and due process consideration.

Everett also wants the authority to reimburse her for the subsidized portion of the rent to which she said she's entitled, as well as costs and attorney fees and any further relief the court sees fit.

Court documents show Everett lives with an adult disabled daughter and a minor disabled child.

She was a participant in the voucher program through the Harrisburg Housing Authority (HHA), but said she moved out of the city because of a high incidence of criminal activity near her residence.

The Harrisburg authority helped Everett transfer the voucher to Shamokin, which issued a voucher to her on Aug. 24, That same day, Everett made a request for SHA to inspect her apartment. She said that did not occur.

Two weeks later, SHA sent a letter to Everett saying the agency was revoking the subsidy based on a report from the U.S. Postal Service that her adult son, Khaalid Muhammad, was living with her. Simultaneously, SHA issued a notice to Everett's adult daughter, saying her subsidy was also ending for the same reason.

Everett said in the complaint that for months prior and at that time, Muhammad was renting from the same landlord, Junior Fairweather, but at a different Shamokin apartment.

Everett had a grievance meeting with Miller on Oct. 9 and SHA sent a letter confirming that the information provided by the post office on Khaalid Muhammad's residence was erroneous, but the subsidy was not reinstated, according to court documents.

Among the exhibits in the complaint presented by Everett are three letters sent to SHA by HUD, copies of which went to Everett's attorney, Joseph DeCristopher, of North Penn Legal Services, Sunbury.

In each letter, Dennis G. Bellingtier, director of the Office of Public Housing in HUD's Philadelphia Regional Office, disputed many of SHA's reasons as to why the vouchers were denied, such as a claim that her income is over the limit and that she received a large cash award for the Special Needs Education Trust for her younger daughter.

In each letter, the agency directed SHA to reissue the voucher from September to the present.

In the last letter, dated May 10, HUD threatened action if the matter is not resolved.

"In light of SHA's persistent refusal to comply with the program regulations, this office is reviewing its options, including the possibility of imposing sanctions against SHA if it continues to operate in violation of its contractual obligations with HUD," it reads.

On Monday, the court granted a in "forma pauperis motion" to Everett, allowing the case to proceed without filing fees or court costs to her, due to her limited income, since she is forced to pay a full rent payment and care for her two disabled daughters, the court said.

SHAMOKIN - The following hearings took place Tuesday before Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III. Defendants ordered to appear for plea court July 29 in Northumberland County Court, Sunbury, can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Charges of theft and receiving stolen property filed by Zerbe Township Chief of Police Robert John against Floyd E. Hulsizer III, 35, of Trevorton, were dismissed due to insufficient evidence presented at a preliminary hearing.

Hulsizer, who was represented by Attorney Kymberley Best, was charged with stealing an antique Crissy doll in a box, a framed arrow head display and Chamilia charm bracelet valued at $420 from Alyssa Marquette-Hulsizer, of 901 Pleasant View St., Trevorton, between April 10 and April 11.

n James F. Barnes, 18, of Glen Lyons, waived to court four counts each of aggravated assault. simple assault and harassment involving a March 10 disturbance in the VCORE multi-purpose room at Northwestern Academy, where he was a student at the time.

Barnes was charged by Coal Township Patrolman Matthew Hashuga with assaulting academy employees Noel Ibarra, Rachel Sahutsky, Sarah Benner and Michael Runkle, who all suffered injuries. Police said the four employees were punched in the face by Barnes.

n Tina Marie Hoskins-Knight, 30, of Philadelphia, waived to court charges of contraband and possession of Suboxone involving a Dec. 16 incident in the visitor's parking lot at SCI-Coal Township.

Trooper Brian Ronk of state police at Stonington filed the charges.

n Aleksey Zokhrabekov, 37, of 34 W. Willow St., Shamokin, waived to court charges of possessing a firearm without a license, recklessly endangering another person, terroristic threats, aggravated assault, simple assault and disorderly conduct.

Zokhrabekov was charged by Shamokin Patrolman Nathan Rhodes with pointing a loaded handgun at a neighbor during an April 13 fight at his residence.

n Quincy Bryant, 18, of 210 Main St., Ranshaw, waived to court charges of burglary, criminal trespass and loitering and prowling at night.

Bryant is charged by Coal Township Patrolman Edward Purcell with breaking into the residence of Melissa Vettenberg and her daughter, Deana, of 537 Main St., Ranshaw, on May 23.

UNIVERSITY PARK - The following area students were awarded degrees at Penn State University commencement exercises:

- Michelle Balsavage, Ashland, Hazleton Campus, with distinction, Associate of Science, two-year medical laboratory technology.

- Jonathan M. Benkovic, Riverside, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, computer science.

- Timothy A. Betz, Mount Carmel, University Park Campus, Master of Arts, art history.

- Anna M. Bogetti, Shamokin, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, biological anthropology.

- Gabriel S. Boyer, Riverside, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Arts, French and francophone studies.

- Matthew R. Clayberger, Sunbury, Dickinson School of Law (Carlisle), with distinction, Juris Doctor, law.

- Travis R. Dunkelberger, Sunbury, University Park Campus, with high distinction, Bachelor of Arts, crime, law and justice.

- Nathan D. Ford, Coal Township, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Arts, telecommunications.

- Shane P. Green, Ashland, Schuylkill Campus, Associate of Science, two-year business administration.

- Seoan P. Henderson, Ashland, Hazleton Campus, Associate of Science, two-year medical laboratory technology.

- Kelsey H. Kenney, Ashland, Schuylkill Campus, Bachelor of Science, psychology.

- Nicholas F. Kerstetter, Sunbury, Harrisburg Campus, Master of Arts, criminal justice.

- Christopher Kozlowski, Mount Carmel, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, biochemistry and molecular biology.

- Adam T. Krushinskie, Shamokin, Harrisburg Campus, Master of Public Administration, public administration.

- Brian M. Lenig, Sunbury, Altoona Campus, Bachelor of Science, criminal justice.

- Timothy L. Lindemann, Riverside, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, science.

- Matthew J. Mcguire, Shamokin, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, biochemistry and molecular biology.

- Holly M. Moncavage, Elysburg, University Park Campus, Juris Doctor, law.

- Jared E. Moroskie, Shamokin, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, wildlife and fisheries service.

- Erin N. Pastuszek, Sunbury, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, elementary and kindergarten education.

- Christopher E. Polchin, Mount Carmel, University Park Campus, with highest distinction, Juris Doctor, law.

- Ryan A. Potts, Dornsife, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Arts in history and Bachelor of Arts in classics and ancient Mediterranean studies.

- Anthony P. Rossi, Mount Carmel, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, civil engineering.

- Kyle M. Schmid, Riverside, University Park Campus, Doctor of Philosophy, chemistry.

- Ashley A. Shamus, Mount Carmel, World Campus, Bachelor of Science, psychology.

- Jachin T. Spotts, Shamokin, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, energy engineering.

- Samuel J. Springer, Elysburg, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, electrical engineering.

- Michael L. Tomashefski, Catawissa, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, industrial engineering.

- Erin R. Williams, Paxinos, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Arts, anthropology.

- Stephanie F. Williams, Sunbury, University Park, Master of Professional Studies, forensic science.

- Lawrence L. Wolfgang, Ashland, College of Medicine - Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Master of Science, physiology.

- Adam L. Yuskoski, Atlas, Schuylkill Campus, Bachelor of Science, administration of justice.

- Charles J. Zendrosky, Ashland, University Park Campus, Bachelor of Science, aerospace engineering.

SHAMOKIN - A 46-year-old city man who allegedly attempted to punch and bite police officers and emergency medical personnel last week apologized to Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III after waiving to court multiple charges Tuesday morning.

Donald Wayne Jessie, of 512 Bear Valley Ave., told Gembic, "I want to apologize your honor for taking up your time."

Jessie, who was handcuffed and wearing leg shackles, told the judge he understood the ramifications of forfeiting his right to a preliminary hearing on two criminal complaints filed by Shamokin Patrolman Shane Mowery in connection with disturbances on June 3.

Jessie was ordered by Gembic to appear for plea court July 29 at Northumberland County Courthouse, where he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

Gembic wished the defendant luck prior to him being recommitted to Northumberland County Prison in Sunbury.

Despite his unruly behavior last week which resulted in multiple charges, Jessie was well behaved in court and during his transports to and from prison by Coal Township Patrolmen Terry Ketchem and Edward Purcell.

Jessie waived to court a felony of aggravated assault, misdemeanors of terroristic threats and resisting arrest, and a summary of disorderly conduct.

According to a criminal complaint, police initially went to Jessie's home shortly before 10 p.m. to check on his welfare after being contacted by a caseworker from Northumberland County Behavioral Health and Intellectual/Developmental Services. Cpl. Darwin Tobias III and Patrolman Mark Costa were able to settle Jessie down at that time, but were called back to his residence at about 11:20 p.m. after receiving a call from a caseworker who reported Jessie was making threats to harm himself and others.

Jessie was then transported to Shamokin Police Station to await a mental health evaluation because of his threatening behavior toward himself and others. Jessie, who told police he did not want to be committed to a medical facility for an evaluation, exited the rear door of the police station at 511 N. Franklin St. and walked west on Independence Street before becoming combative and screaming and cursing. He was eventually handcuffed by officers and returned to the police station.

While being detained, Jessie became more combative and began dragging a desk from an interview room toward police, causing damage to the walls. Police said Jessie started threatening to punch officers in the face before swinging at them.

It took three police officers to hold Jessie down until AREA Services Ambulance personnel arrived at the station with a restraint system that prevented the defendant from punching and charging at police. While police and four ambulance personnel attempted to restrain Jessie with handcuffs, a transport belt, leg shackles and the restraint system for transport to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, he attempted to bite the officers and emergency medical personnel. It took more than 10 minutes before police and ambulance personnel were able to secure Jessie for transport.

Jessie also waived to court charges of disorderly conduct and public drunkenness relating to a 3 a.m. incident outside his home in which he allegedly repeatedly screamed, disturbing neighbors. According to police, Jessie yelled, "It's my God-given right to go outside and scream my lungs out, and I don't care who I disturb."

SHAMOKIN - What was a steady light rain for most of Monday quickly turned into a torrential downpour, causing headaches for residents living in low-drainage areas.

Calls for pump details, water rescues and flooded roads began pouring into the Northumberland County Communications Center as a swath of heavy rain embedded with thunderstorms moved through the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) in State College estimated around 2 to 3 inches of rain fell during the day - but most of it in a two-hour time period - in Northumberland, upper Dauphin and western Schuylkill counties.

Shamokin Deputy Fire Chief Jason Zimmerman said a drainage ditch that runs beside railroad tracks along Fifth Street filled with water, culm and debris, causing drains near the Fifth Street playground to become blocked. The black water was forced down Fifth Street toward Mulberry Street, bypassing several additional drains.

"It just overflowed. By the time we were aware of the situation it was too late," Zimmerman said. "It caused minor residential flooding, but we were not called to any homes for assistance."

By Tuesday morning the street department had unclogged the drains and firefighters from the Independence and West End fire companies cleared the streets of debris.

Family rescued

Three members of a family were OK after their Chevrolet Equinox became stranded in several feet of water on State Street in front of the Shamokin Area Middle/Senior High School in Coal Township. Drains also became blocked by debris, causing a miniature lake in front of the school that caught Heather Lytle off-guard.

Lytle, her husband, David, and 14-year-old son were attempting to reach Venn Access Road when the engine stalled in water that reached the bottom of the doors. They were uninjured in the ordeal.

More rain

The forecast for today calls for mostly sunny skies with a high near 81 degrees. The nice weather will be short lived, as unsettled weather moves in again Thursday.

According to NWS, showers and thunderstorms are "likely" then, with some producing gusty winds and heavy rain accumulating between 1.5 to 3 inches. Drier and cooler air will move into the region for the remainder of the week.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Margie Cwalina has experienced flooding before.

As in the Flood of 2011.

But Monday night, she and her family say, it was worse.

Her trailer home at 1443 W. Wood St. was flooded during a heavy downpour that dropped 2 to 3 inches of rain, forcing rescue personnel to evacuate her from her home at 9:30 p.m.

"The guys carried me out and they had water up to their waists" she said.

They toted her up to Chestnut Street, where neighbors gave her towels to dry off.

Cwalina, 77, initially refused to leave as she scrambled to retrieve family photo albums that were stored on lower shelves in her home.

Tuesday afternoon, friends and family were still busy cleaning up the property, trying to salvage what they could. All the carpet in her home had to be ripped out and the side skirting on the trailer removed to air it out underneath.

Her kitchen and living room were ruined. There was even "mud in my cupboards," she said.

Clifton Hart, married to Cwalina's granddaughter, Alison, was one of the family members who had been working all day on the cleanup.

"It was definitely worse than the storms that came through (in 2011) by far. She had water coming up through the heating registers in the floor," he said.

'Wood Street falls'

To the rear of her home is a small creek that runs along Wood Street, and there is a steep cliff where water comes pouring down off the mountain directly into the creek. She calls it the "Wood Street falls."

"She has been on the township about issues with debris in the creek and she went to them several times," Hart said.

Cwalina believes the problem is caused by the blockage at a nearby drain.

"It will flood again in heavy rain," she predicted.

Rob Slaby, Coal Township manager, said Tuesday that sections of a large tree that had been cut down washed downstream and blocked the underground channel the creek flows into. That caused it to overflow Monday night, he said.

"There are two pipes that keep debris out of the channel, which eventually empties into the Shamokin Creek," he said. "If they (the sections of tree) didn't get caught up in there, there wouldn't have been as large a problem."

Hoping for best

Cwalina's granddaughter, Katie Gilger, said she tried calling the Red Cross for her grandmother, but couldn't get through to them. She kept getting transferred on the phone as of early Monday afternoon.

Cwalina, who is not insured, expressed her gratitude for her family who turned out to help her with her home.

"I don't know what I would do without them" she said. "I am just praying to God that they won't tell me it is condemned."

Seth Hart, Margie's 10 year old great grandson removes, a piece of skirting from her home on Tuesday afternoon. Cwalina's home was

flooded and she had to be evacuated on Monday night during the heavy downpours that hit our area.

TREVORTON - The Trevorton Senior Action Center held its regular monthly meeting June 7. There were eight members present.

The meeting was opened with prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.

The secretary's report was read by Wanda Heath and approved as read.

The treasurer's report was read by Bob Sager and approved as read.

The travel committee financial report was given by Joyce Koppen and up-coming trips for the senior center were announced. More information may be obtained by contacting Joyce at 797-3695 or Nina at 648-0545.

A review of recent fundraisers was given, and a discussion about not making potato cake batter in June and making perogies, and possibly hoagies, in July followed.

Manager Diana Smeal is working on trips with transportation for July and August. A few places the group would like to go are Gratz Auction, Millersburg, Wooden Nickel Restaurant and Elizabethville.

A trip to Red Lobster on June 27 planned and a sign-up sheet is available.

The center's monthly birthday party will be on June 21 with a picnic theme. A members breakfast will be on Monday, June 24, and everyone is welcome.

The meeting was adjourned and lunch was served. The group gathered for the fifth session on chronic disease management presented by Family Medical Group of Mount Carmel.

Susquehanna area motorists will be saving a bit more at the pump this week, while gas prices drop almost 2 cents to $3.453 a gallon.

Nationally

Today's national average price for regular unleaded gasoline is $3.63 per gallon. This is a penny more expensive than one week ago, six cents more than one month ago and nine cents more than the same date last year.

The national average has increased just one cent in the past week; however this obscures divergent gas price storylines at the state level. Drivers in 25 states have seen prices fall during this period. At the same time, drivers in 25 states and Washington D.C. have seen prices increase over the past week. This group is led by sharply higher prices in several Great Lakes states, including jumps of at least 8 cents per gallon in Ohio (+9 cents), Wisc. (+11 cents), Mich. (+12 cents), Ill. (+16 cents) and Ind. (+19 cents).

The near record high prices being paid by drivers in these states are the product of continued low supplies and transportation challenges for wholesale gasoline in the Chicago market, particularly because of maintenance at the ExxonMobil refinery in Joliet, Ill. and the BP refinery in Whiting, Ind. Confirmation yesterday that the Joliet refinery was back online after more than two months will increase supply to the market and likely mean lower prices in the days ahead, however the Whiting refinery continues to operate at less than full capacity.

As noted in last week's Fuel Gauge Report, national gasoline markets have been driven by regional supply and production issues and not by West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil prices, which have traded within a narrow $5 range. At the close of today's formal trading on the NYMEX, WTI settled down 26 cents at $95.77 per barrel.

(AAA East Central is a not-for-profit association with 82 local offices in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, New York and Kentucky servicing 2.7 million members.)

MOUNT CARMEL - On May 30, 1993, the five memorials erected on the lot of the Susquehanna Bank at Second and Oak streets were dedicated by VFW Post 2110. At that time, the first flag raised over the monuments was in honor and memory of U.S. Army veteran Sgt. Phillip A. Cimino.

Twenty years later, on Sunday, May 26, the 442nd flag was raised in honor and memory of a veteran of the civil war, George P. Parry, who was born Aug. 8, 1839.

A blacksmith by trade, he enrolled in Company E, 55th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry (The Ringgold Rifle Company) at Minersville and was mustered into service at Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, Aug. 28, 1861, as a private.

He reenlisted Jan. 1, 1864, at Beaufort, S.C., and transferred to Company C on April 27, 1864.

He was promoted to sergeant on Sept. 27, 1864 and to second lieutenant on May 15, 1865.

Among the battles he participated in were Edisto Island, S.C.; Cold Harbor, the Petersburg Campaign, Chaffins Farms, and the Appomattox campaign, all in Virgina. He was mustered out with his company on Aug. 30, 1865, at Petersburg.

Following the war, Parry moved to Mount Carmel. He was employed by the Reading Railroad for 24 years, and was the engineer for 11 years of the peewee passenger train, which ran from the station at Fifth and Market streets to Mount Carmel Junction. He was a member of Burnside Post No.92, Grand Army of the Republic.

Parry died April 6, 1895, and is buried in Mount Carmel Cemetery, Mount Carmel Township. A widower at the time of his death, he was survived by a son and two daughters.

The flag that was flown for the past month was in honor and memory of Walter V. Wanzie, who served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II.

"Taps" was sounded on the bugle by Larry Latsko as the flag was lowered by Anthony Candelora. The flag was folded by William Begis, James Kealy and Candelora, and was presented to Wanzie's wife, Jacqueline, by Walter Summers.

Charles Nostoviak carried the American flag and the rifle escort was provided by Norman Nye and Candelora. Kealy provided traffic control. Also participating was Mount Carmel Mayor J.Kevin Jones, past commander of James A. Garfield Camp No.34, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War.

The flag that was flown for the ceremony was donated by Robert Parker, a member of the Garfield Camp, in memory of his great, great-grandfather Lambert Ruffing, private in Company B, 5th Pennsylvania Cavalry, and his great-great-uncle Lancelot Parker, a private in Company 1, 48th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry.

The Susquehanna Bank was thanked for displaying Parry's name on its message board.

The next flag ceremony will be at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 23, at the flag pole of the Susquehanna Bank. Area veterans and the public are invited to attend.

SUNBURY - Northumberland County President Judge Robert B. Sacavage rejected a plea agreement Friday for a 28-year-old Sunbury woman charged with physically abusing her former boyfriend's 2-year-old son in January 2012.

April Baker, who entered a plea agreement May 8 that called for her to serve six to 23 months in county prison, had the deal rejected and was ordered to appear for a pre-trial conference at 1:15 p.m. Aug. 9.

Baker, who is free on bail, was represented by Northumberland County Chief Public Defender Edward Greco, while First Assistant District Attorney Ann Targonski represented the commonwealth.

Baker is facing felonies of aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of children, and misdemeanors of simple assault and recklessly endangering another person.

The defendant and her former boyfriend, Jason Philhower, 27, of Sunbury, were charged by Sunbury Sgt. Christopher Blase in connection with Jan. 12, 2012, incidents at their former apartment at 634 Susquehanna Ave.

Baker is accused of holding Philhower's 2-year-old son upside down by the ankle and throwing him onto a couch, breaking his leg.

The accusations against Philhower and Baker also included reports of putting the child in "timeouts," where he had to face a wall.

In March 2012, Philhower pleaded guilty to a felony of endangering the welfare of children and was sentenced by Sacavage to 6 to 23 1/2 months in county prison. An additional felony charge of aggravated assault and two misdemeanors of simple assault and recklessly endangering another person were not prosecuted.