MOUNT CARMEL - Christine Mrozek, president of the Mount Carmel Area Future Nurses of America Club, collected children's toys to assemble Jared Boxes for chronically ill children. More than 30 boxes were assembled with the generous donations of the Holy Angels Parish in Kulpmont. All the toys will be transported to the tornado victims in Missouri through the generosity of Repeat After Me and Princess Fancy Pants, both businesses in Danville.

SHAMOKIN DAM - A Bucknell University professor working on a book based on 270 manuscript pages of Moravian diaries during the early colonial days with the Native Americans in the Sunbury area was the special guest speaker at the first Northumberland County Historical Society Heritage Dinner.

"This is important because it shows a different side of history," said Dr. Katherine Faull following the three-hour presentation and dinner June 2 at Tedd's on the Hill, which overlooks the confluence of the Susquehanna River, where much of the history she presented took place.

"I like to uncover unheard voices and allow those voices to be heard again. Some of these voices were never heard before," she said.

One of these voices, written in the pages, was of a group of children heard by the Delaware tribe, who settled on Packer Island. The natives heard the children crying and found they were crowded around their deceased mother on the shore of the Susquehanna. They took the children in and cared for them as if they were their own.

Faull started working on the project five years ago and started writing the book in 2009 about what she called the foundation stories of American history.

She presented the information to the 70 diners in three parts: negotiators, Moravian and Native Americans. She spoke about lesser known figures from history and the more prominent ones, such as Chief Shikellamy.

In her research, she said one can see the daily life of the Moravian people, who rarely were allowed to stay single. Men had to teach the Bible to men and women had to teach it to women. The missionaries adopted the native exchange of goods by using gifts instead of currency.

The diaries depicts various small-scale stories as well as larger scale, including the Penn's Creek Massacre, where 14 settlers were killed and 11 were taken captive by the natives.

Society Director Cindy Inkrote said the dinner and presentation gave people an opportunity to experience history a little more in depth while socializing.

She considered the event a success, and the society will be planning another dinner in the fall, which will feature an expert on Thomas Edison.

Jonathan Pineno, a Native American flutist and composer, also attended the dinner and presented his work.

All centers will be closed on Tuesday in observance of Flag Day, and will attend the Area Agency on Aging picnic at Knoebels Amusement Resort, Pavilion A on Wednesday. The VNA Health Fair will be held at Pavilion Q the same day.

Shamokin-Coal Township

Sunday - Wii bowling and cards, 2 p.m.

Monday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; lunch at Olive Garden, van leaves at 11 a.m., cost $2; cards and puzzles.

Thursday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; nickel bingo, noon.

Saturday - Wii bowling and cards, 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Mount Carmel

Monday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; Exercise HSIM, 11 to 11:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; bean bag, 12:30 p.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Thursday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Kulpmont

Monday - Bean bag with Wii to follow, 10:30 a.m.; Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Wii in the morning; bingo, 12:30 p.m.; evening cards, 5 p.m.

Friday - Wii in the morning; pizza party, noon, must be signed up; nickel bingo with cards to follow party.

Activity winners - Wii bowling: First match winners were Harry Shankweiler, Gloria Magagna, Linda Shankweiler, and Jean Dallatore. Second match winners were Harry Shankweiler, Anna Mae Piascezny, Tony Kaminsky and Gloria Magagna.

Bean bag toss: Winners were Celestine McGann, Mary Else, Tony Kaminsky, Gloria Magagna, Nick Bruno, John Woytowich, Rita Stewart and Anna Mae Piaseczny.

500 rummie: First game winners were Diane McAndrew, Patricia Pipp, Marie Canerino and Mary Else. Second game winners were Marie Canerino, Mary Else, Diane McAndrew and Patricia Pipp.

Pinochle: Tuesday winners were Harry Shankweiler, Mary R. Socoloski, Len Sahonick, Jackie Wanzie, Betty Menapace, Betty Jarosewicz, Anna Mae Piaseczny and Linda Shankweiler. Thursday winners were Helene Niglio, Paul Niglio, Sis Thiroway, Charles Saweikis, Anna Mae Piaseczny, Alice Zyskoski, Anna Bartko, Helen Whyne, Betty Jarosewicz, Jackie Wanzie, Tish Shikinski, Roger Wolfgang, Celia Ayers, Ellie Romanoski, Harry Shankweiler, Linda Shankweiler, Betty Menapace, Len Sahonick, Mary K. Socoloski and Tony Deromedi.

Centralia-Wilburton

Monday - After lunch, movie with treats.

Thursday - Celebrating our June birthdays.

Friday - Center closed for a day trip to Green's in Lavelle to honor our fathers with dinner, 12:30 p.m.

Elysburg

Monday - Pokeno, noon.

Thursday - Healthy Steps, 9:30 a.m.; line dancing, 11 a.m.; trip to Cracker Barrel at Buckhorn.

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

Trevorton

Monday - Games on the Wii, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Unlucky 7s, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Sunbury SAC visiting for Wii bowling, 9 p.m.; sing-A-Long, 12:15 p.m.; evening bingo, 6 p.m.

Friday - Wii games, 8:30 to 11 a.m.; birthday party, 5 p.m., please bring a covered dish.

STONINGTON - It's been a long time coming, but Shamokin Township's Adams Park Road sewer project is finally going to become a reality.

Solicitor James Bathgate presented supervisors with a duly advertised ordinance at their meeting Wednesday night to allow the township to enter into an agreement with the SEDA Council of Governments for the establishment of a Uniformed Construction Code appeals board, and engineer Ken Young told supervisors construction is about to begin.

The budget for the project is approximately $4,000 short. Residents were aware of this and had agreed to make up the difference. Supervisors discussed at last month's meeting the possibility of borrowing from the general fund and having residents pay back the loan over a period of time. The board unanimously voted to set up a separate fund, which will be considered a loan. Residents of Adams Park Road will pay back the loan over a period of five years.

In other business:

- Supervisors voted to change telephone companies from Verizon to Service Electric, which secretary Stephanie McKinney said will save the township $53 a month.

- Chairman Tom Carl gave a brief report in roadmaster Jon Clemens' absence. Carl said road crews are beginning to catch up on repairs. Although supervisors occasionally receive calls about specific problems, instead of sending a crew out to "Band-Aid fix" something and then later having the problem properly repaired, the crew will continue to stick to its schedule and get all the jobs done right, Carl said.

Supervisors Greg Rachau and John Klinger were also in attendance and voted on all motions.

n William N. White, 48, of 231 W. Center St., Elysburg, waived two separate cases to Northumberland County Court during his preliminary hearing Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh A. Jones, of Mount Carmel.

In the first case, White was charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia after being found with approximately eight to 10 pounds of marijuana in his home on May 4. White was also charged with two counts of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of a communication facility following a controlled buy on May 4 at his residence. Both sets of charges were filed by Officer Christopher Grow of the Ralpho Township Police.

White was ordered to appear for court arraignment at the Northumberland County Courthouse on Monday, July 11, at which time he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Daniel B. Johnson, 23, of 347 Third St., Wilburton, pleaded guilty to a charge of disorderly conduct during his preliminary hearing Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh A. Jones, of Mount Carmel. He was sentenced to six months probation and ordered to pay a $500 fine plus court costs.

Johnson was charged by Mount Carmel Borough Police Patrolman Jason Drumheller following a April 14 incident on South Hickory Street.

Charges of loitering and prowling at night, and public drunkenness were withdrawn in the case.

n Pamela A. Mack, 35, of 218 Cherry St., St. Clair, and Patricia A. Shutt, 24, of 228 S. Pear St., Mount Carmel, each pleaded guilty to a charge of disorderly conduct during their preliminary hearings Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh A. Jones, of Mount Carmel and were ordered to pay fines and costs totaling $353.50 each.

Both individuals were charged by Patrolman William Adamski of the Mount Carmel Borough Police following an altercation between the two at Shutt's residence on April 24.

Charges of simple assault and harassment were withdrawn in the case.

n Charges of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and criminal conspiracy to commit delivery of a controlled substance were ordered bound to court against Bruce Zigarski, 35, of 508 E. Spurzheim St., Shamokin, following a preliminary hearing before Magisterial District Judge Hugh A. Jones of Mount Carmel, on Wednesday.

He was charged by Coal Township Police officer Joshua Wynn following an undercover operation in conjunction with the state Attorney General's office, on Feb. 22.

Zigarski was ordered to appear for a July 11 arraignment at the Northumberland County Courthouse, Sunbury, at which time he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Daniel J. Grohowski, 20, of 614 E. Fourth St., Mount Carmel, waived charges of unauthorized use of an automobile, criminal trespass, driving with a suspended license and trespass by motor vehicle, during his preliminary hearing Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh A. Jones, of Mount Carmel.

Grohowski was charged by Mount Carmel Township Police Patrolman Kelly Campbell following an April 9 incident when Grohowski took a vehicle owned by Kathleen R. Daniels and commonly operated by Kylee Wargo and left it in the wooded area known as the "Black Desert," privately owned by Susquehanna Coal Company. Wargo said in the court document that Grohowski had taken the vehicle from her after the two engaged in an argument.

He was ordered to appear for a court arraignment on Monday, July 11, at the Northumberland County Courthouse, at which time he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

GMC garage closed for cleaning

DANVILLE - The Geisinger Medical Center parking garage will be closed from 6 p.m. today until 6 p.m. Sunday for seasonal cleaning to remove road salt residue.

All surface parking lots will available for patient and visitor parking. The garage will re-open at 6 p.m. Sunday.

Pool won't open Saturday

SHAMOKIN - Mayor George Rozinskie and other members of city council reported the Lawton Shroyer Memorial Swimming Pool on North Rock Street will not open as scheduled on Saturday due to a mechanical problem with the pool's recirculating pump.

Work is being conducted to rectify the problem so the pool can open as soon as possible. No new opening date has been established.

Council members apologizes for any inconvenience.

Streets closed for Relay this weekend

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Borough Police Department will limit traffic for this weekend's Relay for Life event at the MCA Silver Bowl beginning today.

Birch Street will be closed to traffic between Second and Third streets and Second and Olive streets will be limited to local traffic only from Willow to Birch streets.

Community service Saturday

COAL TOWNSHIP - Participants in Magisterial District Judge John Gembic's community service program are asked to meet at the Coal Bowl parking lot at 9 a.m. Saturday. All those on the detail are requested to attend.

WILKES-BARRE - Dr. Nicholas A. Holodick, vice president for academic affairs at King's College, recently announced the following students have qualified for the spring dean's list:

Elysburg - Tyler James, Emily Snyder and Gabrielle Sabo.

Mount Carmel - Christopher Becker.

Coal Township - Jordan Haddock and Paige McWilliams.

Shamokin - Keziah Block, Diana Pierce and Teyah Stiely.

Trevorton - Katlyn Lytle.

UNIVERSITY PARK - Several area students were named to the dean's list for the spring semester at Penn State University.

Students, their hometowns and the campuses they attend are:

Ahmad M. Abuomar, Mount Carmel, University Park; Sarah E. Andreychik, Catawissa, University Park; Coby A. Bamford, Coal Township, University Park; Samuel D. Borowik, Ashland, Berks; Gabriel S. Boyer, Riverside, University Park; Adriana M. Brokus, Elysburg, University Park.

Alyssa R. Carl, Catawissa, University Park; Marina M. Catizone, Girardville, Hazleton; Hannah E. Clendaniel, Paxinos, Hazleton; Jessica E. Dascani, Shamokin, University Park; Roman A. Deibert, Sunbury, Schuylkill; Hannah E. Derr, Sunbury, Hazleton; Samantha L. Dinger, Ashland, Hazleton.

Michael A. Disori, Shamokin, University Park; Travis R. Dunkelberger, Sunbury, Hazleton; Amanda B. Ebersole, Sunbury, Altoona; Aaron M. Farnsworth, Elysburg, University Park; Timothy T. Furr, Sunbury, University Park; Tyler M. Gidaro, Kulpmont, University Park; Nicholas R. Gober. Ashland, University Park.

Lake E. Graboski, Shamokin, University Park; Brandon K. Hall, Elysburg, Mont Alto; Tyler C. Hassinger, Sunbury, University Park; Ruth Ann Helfrick, Elysburg, University Park; Justin T. Jordan, Gordon, Schuylkill; Michael C. Joseph, Elysburg, University Park; Brian K. Kothe, Ashland, University Park.

Christopher Kozlowski, Mount Carmel, Hazleton; Matthew A. Kroh, Ashland, Schuylkill; Kristen E. Lenig, Sunbury, University Park; Timothy L. Lindemann, Riverside University Park; Sarah H. Lucas, Paxinos, University Park; Steven M. Lukashunas, Kulpmont, World Campus; Kati E. Marquardt, Ashland, Hazleton.

Kelli A. Martz, Paxinos, University Park; Alicia C. Maurer, Elysburg, University Park; Tyler J. Mendinsky, Ashland, Schuylkill; Cody L. Minnick, Catawissa, University Park; Maria B. Montellano, Mount Carmel, Schuylkill; Kyle P. Myhre, Catawissa, Altoona; Shane B. Prep, Girardville, Hazleton.

Philip T. Rathosky, Mount Carmel, University Park; Jennifer K. Reitz, Sunbury, University Park; Anthony P. Rossi, Mount Carmel, Schuylkill; Linda L. Scholl, Sunbury, World Campus; Chelsea E. Shervinskie, Sunbury, Hazleton; Mark. J. Shultz, Shamokin, University Park; Gabrielle Singh, Elysburg, Altoona.

Jachin T. Spotts, Shamokin, University Park; Samuel J. Springer, Elysburg, University Park; Richard S. Trautman, Ashland, Schuylkill; Eric J. Turofski, Catawissa, University Park; Roxann D. Ulceski, Mount Carmel, Hazleton; Andrew M. Wagner, Shamokin, University Park; Samantha M. Wascavage, Ashland, Hazleton.

Brittany M. Wertman, Catawissa, University Park; Marcin Wrobel, Mount Carmel, Hazleton; Rachel L. Zanella, Mount Carmel, Schuylkill; Alexander D. Zartman, Sunbury, University Park; Daniel W. Zartman, Sunbury, University Park, and Charles J. Zendrosky, Ashland, University Park.

Friday

2 p.m. - Opening ceremonies.

2 to 5:30 p.m. - DJ music.

2:30 to 10 p.m. - Food stand is open, along with a plant sale, jewelry sale and readings from fortune teller Stareena.

4 p.m. - Survivor registration begins.

5 p.m. - Luminaria sales begin.

5:45 p.m. - National anthem, followed by blessing by the Very Rev. Francis Karwacki and speeches by Northumberland County Commissioner Frank Sawicki and Mount Carmel Borough Mayor J. Kevin Jones.

6 to 7 p.m. - Survivor ceremony and lap. Dinner sponsored by Vine Street Sandwich Shop and Family Medical Home Health Agency.

6:30 to 7:30 p.m. - Performance by Lift Your Spirits group, directed by Dan Thomas.

7:30 to 9:30 p.m. - Performance by The Shannon Marsyada Trio.

8 p.m. - Site decorating judging.

8:30 p.m. - Luminaria sales close.

9:30 to 10:30 p.m. - Luminaria ceremony featuring Bret Getty.

10:30 p.m. to midnight - Performance by Slow Motion Catastrophe.

Saturday

Midnight -Movie night and pizza party for team members.

1 to 2 a.m. - Walking backwards lap.

2 to 3 a.m. - Lady Gaga lap.

4 to 5 a.m. - Three-legged foot race.

6 to 7 a.m. - Minute to Win It games.

7 a.m. - Bed head lap and the concession stand opens.

8 a.m. - Zumba.

9 a.m. - Penny Walk registeration begins.

10 a.m. - Penny Walk and children's activities.

10 a.m. - Performance by the Mount Carmel Area cheerleaders.

Noon to 1:45 p.m. - Performance by The Mollywogs.

2 p.m - Closing ceremonies.

MOUNT CARMEL - Kevin Kayda, a son of Kevin and Laura Kayda of Carlisle, has been assigned by Bishop Joseph McFadden to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church for his summer ministerial program.

Kayda is entering his third year of Theology at Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg, Md., in the fall.

Before entering the seminary to study for the priesthood he attended West Virginia University to study pharmaceutical science.

Kayda will assist the pastor, the Very Rev. Francis J. Karwacki in ministry in a variety of ways such as helping with the liturgies, hospital visits, communion calls to the home-bound and adult education.

HARRISBURG - The state Superior Court has ruled that the 1988 mortgages for Center City Apartments that were acquired in 2009 by the Shamokin Housing Authority are valid, a key legal victory in the authority's ongoing dispute with Red Gold Enterprises Inc.

The ruling could result in a new effort by the authority to foreclose on the five-story, 34-unit complex and have it sold at a sheriff's sale, although it's unclear at this point if Red Gold will appeal.

The opinion affirmed a ruling made in Northumberland County Court on Jan. 15, 2010, that determined the validity of more than $1 million in primary and support mortgages.

Red Gold acknowledges that a foreclosure action was filed in 2000 on the Center City mortgage by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) because Red Gold had not made a mortgage payment since February 1998.

However, that case was dismissed "with prejudice" in 2004 after four years of inactivity, which, according to Red Gold, rendered the promissory notes on the mortgages invalid. Even though the authority acquired the notes from PHFA in 2009, it doesn't give the authority ownership, according to Red Gold.

In its May 27 decision, the justices cited a Florida Supreme Court ruling based on Red Gold's argument that the case falls under the doctrine of "res judicata," or that the court's dismissal "with prejudice" is a final judgment and not subject to appeal.

Language in that ruling states, "The doctrine of res judicata does not necessarily bar successive foreclosure suits, regardless of whether or not the mortgagee sought to accelerate payments on the note in the first suit. The subsequent and separate alleged default created a new and independent right in the mortgagee to accelerate payment on the note in a subsequent foreclosure action."

With that, Red Gold's action to quiet title was dismissed, as the court said it was without merit. And because the dismissal of the 2004 case was not res judicata, the housing authority can now petition the court to exercise its discretion to proceed in a foreclosure action.

The appeal had held up a county sheriff's sale that had been scheduled for the property.

Attorney Clayton Davidson, Harrisburg, who has been representing the authority, did not comment Wednesday on the advice he's offered his client, saying only, "We're moving forward."

Calls to attorney Robert Cravitz, Selinsgrove, counsel for Red Gold, were not returned Wednesday. A person answering the phone Thursday said Cravitz was out until Monday.

Second appeal

A second appeal involving Red Gold and the authority remains before the state Superior Court.

Red Gold has appealed Saylor's May 19, 2010, ruling that said because both parties had a claim for the building, they should share the cost of expenses. Red Gold was ordered to pay 76 percent of all heat, water, sewer, electric, trash, maintenance, real estates taxes and a $500 management fee, and the authority the rest.

Saylor's ruling also put a $5,066 monthly payment on Red Gold to help pay on the mortgage, but the judge amended that ruling a few months later to $2,000 a month.

The two sides met in court April 26, where the authority argued that Red Gold was in arrears $5,777.12 in its payments in part because it had claimed expenses that included $2,000 in legal fees and $500 for health insurance for company owner Eugene Picarella.

Saylor suggested Red Gold cut its payments for legal bills to $1,000 a month, and that it pay an extra $500 to the authority until the arrears are erased.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Coal Township commissioners are initiating a "Wall of Shame" in an effort to embarrass owners of blighted properties, hoping the shame will prompt them to clean up their houses or pay to have them torn down.

At Thursday night's meeting, Commissioner Craig Fetterman said properties are falling part in various sections of the township and steps need to be taken to have them cleaned up or razed. He said the commissioners have granted approval to township manager Robert Slaby to place the names, telephone numbers and current addresses of blighted property owners on the township's website: coaltownship.org.

In addition to having their names, phone numbers and addresses listed on the website, signs will be posted by the township on the properties themselves listing the same information, if available. Fetterman and fellow Commissioners Gerard Waugh, George Zalar, Paul Petrovoch and president Gene Welsh urged neighbors to call the property owners as much as possible to complain about the eyesores.

Fetterman said Coal Township Code Enforcement Officer Chris Petrovich has been a "one-man band" in trying to keep up with the numerous complaints he has received about blighted properties, but needs assistance in rectifying the problems.

Fetterman said a citizens committee to fight blight also will be appointed.

Solicitor Vincent Rovito said if property owners are cited for ordinance violations and found guilty, they will be ordered to pay fines and costs and make restitution to either have the property cleaned up or razed.

The commissioners pointed out that the owner of a blighted property at 1008 W. Lynn St. has been cited 30 times for ordinance violations, but refuses to do anything to rectify the problems. The owner of that property, which has been vacant for at least six years, is HOMEQ Servicing of Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif., which faces outstanding warrants on violations for failing to pay previous fines.

"We are passionate about getting rid of blighted properties in the township," Fetterman said.

Homes causing health hazard

In a related matter, Tom Eby, of 1325 W. Walnut St., and Charles Snyder, of 1329 W. Walnut St., complained about a property at 1335 W. Walnut St. that is strewn with garbage. Eby said the garbage has attracted rats, which has created a health hazard.

Eby said the garbage problem has existed for about five years. He said the property also has a cracked sewer line, which has caused other problems.

Eby and Snyder said the owners of the home, Chris and Erica Kern, recently moved out, but the problems persist.

Eby commended Chris Petrovich for previously citing Chris Kern for ordinance violations, but said the problems continued.

Welsh and Rovito told Eby and Snyder that the commissioners will do whatever possible to eliminate the health hazard.

After the meeting, Chris Petrovich and Police Chief William Carpenter told a News-Item reporter that they took Larry Yeager, of 1710 Pulaski Ave., into custody Thursday on a warrant for failing to pay fines on previous violations for excessive garbage at his home. Petrovich said the garbage issue has existed at Yeager's home for at least four years.

Other business

Robert Gusick of Shamokin was awarded contracts to demolish properties at 1672 through 1678 Webster St. ($23,812), 1126 Chemung St. ($16,729) and 1422 W. Nelson St. ($18,719).

Northeast Industrial of Mount Carmel was awarded contracts to demolish properties at 1119 W. Holly St. ($5,900) and 1208 W. Pine St. ($10,900).

Gusick and Northeast Industrial were the low bidders for the respective properties.

The commissioners approved the execution of all necessary documents for a $45,610 USDA RHS Community Facilities Grant the township recently received that was used toward the purchase of a new police cruiser and small dump truck for the street department.

Welsh presented Erica Kuzmick with a certificate of appreciation for volunteering to plant trees and bushes at the Springfield Memorial Park to beautify the area around the gazebo and war memorial.

Paul Petrovich said he is looking into hooking up power and water lines at Springfield Memorial Park.

The commissioners approved a request from Salem United Church of Christ to hold its annual peach festival in the 1300 block of West Pine Street on Aug. 19, if Claude Kehler Community Park in Shamokin is not available in time because of repairs.

COAL TOWNSHIP - For the last 13 years, there has been a clearly laid path for the Shamokin Area Class of 2011, but when the graduating ceremony ended Thursday night, the valedictorian said they will no longer have a "yellow brick road" to follow.

"There is no path. There isn't even one that is overgrown that we can kind of make out. There is no path, simply because we have not made it yet," said Christina Coller to the other 158 members of her graduating class during her speech in the high school auditorium.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, she said, once wrote, "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and make a trail."

When the class walked out the doors after the ceremony, they started making choices that will lead them into a new direction. The new path holds "immeasurable promise of success, love and happiness," but it will also have plenty of tough times, she said.

Conquer adversity

She quoted a portion of "Invictus" by William Ernest Heley, who wrote, "It matters not how straight the gate, how charged with punishments the scroll. I am the master of my fate. I am the captain of my soul."

"'Invictus' is Latin for unconquered, and that is how we should remain - unconquered by this adversity we are to encounter," she said. "We should instead conquer the adversity. I truly believe that everyone of us has the ability to do so."

Devin Conrad, class secretary, understands that dealing with the unknown - heading into the future after high school - is a scary concept.

"But it leaves us with the possibility of changing," she said. "After tonight, we will all be different. We will no longer be high school students, but adults with the new and important responsibilities we must take on to start this fresh chapter of our lives."

Although this is the end of high school, she said, it doesn't have to be the end - period.

"Take chances and don't be afraid to have fun. We only live once," she said. "We don't have to be perfect, just learn from the many mistakes that are bound to be made, and have no regrets throughout the long journey we are setting out on."

High school Principal Chris Venna expressed the trouble he had coming up with lasting words that the class would remember years from now. He said he called several alumni and all said they couldn't remember what was said at their graduation. In fact, Venna admitted he couldn't remember his own commencement.

"That made me feel pretty comfortable," he said, as his cell phone rang to interrupt his address. He answered it, told the caller he was giving a speech and hung up.

"You have many distractions," he continued, listing the "uncertainty of life, the excitement of future, Facebook and cell phones" as several.

Life, he said, is also filled with distractions.

He listed six quick points of advice: Play the game of life to win, trust your preparation, remember that the first five minutes of the game never determine the outcome, attack life with integrity, give back to the community and continue to dream.

Before the seniors received their diplomas, Superintendent James Zach asked the students to stand. The young men and women all turned around and said, in unison, "Thank you" to the parents, teachers, friends and family who helped them get where they are.

The graduating members of the Shamokin Area Class of 2011 are Mark Anonia, Sara Antalosky, Jordan Backes, Joseph Bailey, Angela Bainbridge, Emily Barnes, Erin Barnett, Abigail Beach, Jesse Alexander, Kristin Bielski, Chad Bohner, Ryan Bourinski, Gwendolynn Bowers, Casey Bradigan, Derek Brokenshire, Jennifer Broscious, Courtney Brown, Melissa Buonconsiglio, Stephen Chamberlain, Katelyne Chaundy, Chelsea Clark, Karin Clark, Christina Coller, Caitlyn Collens, Devin Conrad, Andres Coronel, Cassidy Coveleski, Courtney Dilliplane, Kevin Dillon, Dylan Dombroski, Lacey Dorkoski, Matthew Drachler, Bethany Dressler, Graydon Dunkelberger, Patrick Erickson, Lindsay Fanella, Haley Faust, Danielle Favinger, Tyler Ferrara, Preston Ford, Kendra Fry, Jenson Goodrich, Jonathan Grybos, Jared Haddock, Brittany Hamilton, Saraia Hanko, Chesney Haupt, Megan Hensel, Chanel Hetrick, James Hoffman, Daniel Hollick, Natasha Hornberger, Timothy Huxta, Desiree Ignazweski, Matthew Kalinowski, Shawn Keegan, Clorissa Kehler, Logan Kehres, Mary Kelley, Drew Kelly, Victoria Kiefer, Patrick Kleman, Trey Kohan, Rachel Koons, James Kosmer, Kristin Kozar, Angelica Krieger, Joshua Lahr, Roland Lamonica, Jaime Levi, Ryan Lindenmuth, Joseph Lolla, Donald Long, John Long, Teresa Lopez, Wesley Madara, Emily Manning, Ned Marcinik, Hannah Martin, Kendra Maschuck, Janessa Maurer, Corinthia Mayer, Brittany Mayton, Kassandra Medina, Shanda Mensch, Brandon Mikulak, Jonathan Miller, Pablo Monsalve, Jared Montgomery, Randy Moore, Veronica Moore, Thomas Narins, Glen Noble, Joshua Papp, Christopher Pauzer, Daniel Pawelcyzk, Brandon Pesarchick, Ashley Petraskie, Amanda Pheasant, Jacobs Phillips, Nathan Polan, Brianne Ramer, Danricia Ramsay, Lisa Raup, Brooke Reed, David Reed, Summer Reigle, Gregory Renner, Nicholas Renner, Anthony Reynolds, Jeremy Rickert, Kasi Ristine, Christina Roden, Christopher Rowe, Stacy Rudy, Melinda Ruiz, Tara Sabotchick, Blake Sandri, Jarrod Savidge, Roman Scicchitano, Andrew Sebasovich, Tiffany Sejuit, Madeline Shappell, Caitlin Sherman, Cory Shoffler, Eric Shultz, Glen Shurock, Michael Slodysko, Thomas Smallets, Jessica Smith, Cody Snyder, Russel Snyder, Tyler Spears, Jamie Spock, Joseph Stewart, Shane Stiely, Samantha Stoud, Samuel Strausser, Leon Supsic, William Szido, Randy Tamkus, Brett Taylor, Wesley Tillett, Bryant Tomcavage, Corey Tosloskie, Tabitha Vernitsky, Joseph Villar, Colin Wasilewski, Ashley Weikel, Samantha Weikel, Alexander Wolf, Persephanie Wywadis, Brayden Yacko, Phillip Zalar, Aaron Zimmerman, Stephany Zimmerman and Samatha Zlotorzynski.

HERNDON - Line Mountain High School Principal Jeffrey Roadcap described the 2011 graduation class with a quote by Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf: "Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without the strategy."

"This class was sometimes without strategy, but it certainly had character," he added.

The class of 71 students was always something special to Roadcap. It was the freshmen class when he began as principal. "This was a unique group," said Roadcap. "Small, tight, and loyal to one another.

"That made them survivors. They can count on one another as they go into life. They all had an incredible sense of humor and made a difficult year enjoyable."

Roadcap then quoted President Dwight D. Eisenhower: "A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done."

He said that out of the 71 graduates, 24 were honor students for all four periods their senior year, and 40 were awarded the Presidential Educational Award for achieving an overall 90 percent or better grade point average.

The success wasn't limited to academics either. Roadcap cited the musicals, art, and many accomplishments in athletics this year as the graduating class "leaving an indelible mark on the school."

In closing, Roadcap quoted Robert Townsend: "True leadership must be for the benefit of the followers, not the enrichment of the leaders." "This class embodies that statement," he said.

'Don't tickle the dragon'

Valediction Courtney Scott kept in character with her speech that was "short, sweet, and to the point." Scott said that she had a long speech intended for Thursday's ceremony, but decided to change it at the last minute to save her class from the sweltering heat that evening.

"Eventually, we will adapt to the heat and the pressure, and we will be able to fulfill our dreams," she said. "The only inspirational quote that I could find on Google today involving heat was: 'If you can't take the heat, don't tickle the dragon.' I'll let you figure out how to apply that to your life."

The guest speaker for the graduation was a 1996 graduate of Line Mountain High School, Brandon Carson.

"I'm not a man of great wisdom, just a man who once sat in the same seat that you're in right now," he said. "I'm not going to lecture you with life lessons, just the lessons that I've learned from the decisions that I've made."

He said in a world as unpredictable as it is today, you can only control certain things. Make the most of life and treat others how you would want to be treated. Always acknowledge the positives, and learn from the mistakes.

"Understand that life is hard, but we are all in this together," he said.

The graduating members of the Line Mountain Area Class of 2011 are Andrew Allen Adams, Jeremy Allen Aurand, Heather Nicole Bachert, Zachary John Barker, Matthew Hunter Bitting, Timothy Allen Botkin, Dana Kristine Brown, Kyle James Byers, Tasha Le-Ann Campbell, Victoria Lynn Candelora, Jacob Benjamin Carta, Timothy Lee Clouser, Schylar Joanna Cook, Jonathan Frank Davis, Adam John Deeben, Jonathan George Derck, Jena Marie Dittus, Kyle Joseph Dyer, Margaret Mae Fessler, Dylan Michael Forry, Andrew Phillip Foulds, Michelle Giordani, Coral Skye Goodrich, Benjamin Anthony Harner, Nathan Donald Hatzel, Brandi Lynn Heim, Michael Warren Hinkley, Kramer E. Hovenstine, Joseph Michael Hukill, Alexandra Marie Johnston, Kelsey Lyn Lagerman, Tyler Lee Lahr, Jacob Andrew Land, Sophie Lynn Lansberry, Bridget Mae Laudenslager, Brittany Mae Laudenslager, Kelsey Christine Lenig, Michael Robert Marciniak, Bryce William Martz, Mitchell Robert Martz, Virginia Mae Moyer, Laura Ann Novinger, Joshua John Pickett, Courtney Renee Reaser, Casey Loren Renninger, Trent Garrick Roach, Colton Louis Sadowski, Tyler James Sandefer, Courtney Paige Scott, Cody Gavin Selig, Micaela Jean Shervinskie, Coal Jay Shingara, Octavia Leigh Shingara, Amber Elizabeth Shrawder, Charles Stacy Shrawder II, Spenser Robert Snyder, Samantha Jo Strohecker, Sean Allen Strohecker, Paige Sarah Swineford, Callie Lane Umholtz, Amanda Marie Updegrave, Jordan Eugene Welker, Dillon Lee Whitcomb, Logan Scott White, Sara Elizabeth Whitsel, Benjamin Ryan Williard, Christina Denise Witmer, Tiffany Elizabeth Wolfe, Courtney Lynn Woodward, Trae Alexander Wren, and Jessica Cheryl Yost.

MOUNT CARMEL - When looking for inspiration for her valedictory speech, Christine Mrozek turned to duct tape.

Standing Thursday night before her fellow graduates, school officials and a packed Mount Carmel Area High School gymnasium, Mrozek said a roll of duct tape can be just like life because it comes in so many different varieties and colors, and has two sides.

"The smooth side lets everything slide by and the sticky side attaches onto just about everything," Mrozek said. "In our lives, this is like our free will. You have the opportunity to let your mind remain rolled away, or you could expose the sticky side of your brain and open yourself to the possibility of experiencing or learning something. After all, knowledge is power."

Another duct tape lesson Mrozek relayed to the class is to give in order to receive.

"You experience nothing worthwhile if you only think of yourself. However, by taking the time to be involved with others, a piece of you will remain with them and you will be attached to them as well. While not all bonds last forever, you will find that if you truly put forth the effort, you can create a connection that will withstand the test of time," she said.

In her welcoming address, senior class President Brigid Demko inspired her fellow graduates by reading a quote from the movie "Rocky Balboa."

In the first part of the quote, Rocky called the world a mean and nasty place that would beat a man to his knees and keep him there if he let it.

But Demko focused on the hope portrayed in the last part.

"'You, me, or nobody is going to hit as hard as life. But it isn't how hard you hit, it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done, Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you've got to be willing to take the hit,'" Demko quoted.

Admitting she is scared about this time in her life, Demko said one thought comforts her - home.

"Mount Carmel will always be here for me. It isn't going anywhere, and any time for the rest of my life I need to feel welcome or need to just be encompassed by a sense of home, this town is just a car, bus, train or plane ride away," she said.

Home was the theme relayed to the graduates by Gregory Doviak, a 1967 graduate of Mount Carmel Area who went on to great heights on the football field - he was the first quarterback in Pennsylvania high school history to rush more than 1,000 yards and pass more than 1,500 yards in a season - and in the classroom, serving as principal for Lower Moreland High School and mentored new principals in retirement.

"There will be many that will leave this area, but whether you take the road less-traveled or well-traveled, have all of your hopes and dreams in place before you go," he said. "Whatever path you choose, make sure you have respect for yourself, sensitivity for others and the personality that reflects the values that you have been taught here in Mount Carmel."

Salutorian Kelsey Kraynak used part of her speech to praise her fellow classmates.

"There is so much potential in this gym right now, it's almost overwhelming. I look out right now and see all-star athletes. I see five-star musicians and actors. I see the elite of intelligence. I see people who are dedicated, talented and passionate about their goals," Kraynak said.

She ended her address with words of thanks for her classmates.

"Thank you for making the past four years unforgettable. I wish you the best of luck in the future, whatever path you are choosing to follow," she said.

The 137 students earning diplomas at Thursday's ceremony were Hasan Abuomar, Brandon Alderson, Samantha Allen, Matthew Altomare, Rachel Amarose, Paul Artman, John Ballinger Jr., Nicholas Barr, Brittany Bartol, Brooke Bartol, Jesse Barwicki, Mariah Beaver, James Becker, Kelsey Bennett, Robert Bergeron Jr., Danielle Bernini, Amy Besser, John Boonstra, Erin Bowers, David Bozza Jr., Tiffany Bray, Kayla Bressi, Kyle Brown, Dylan Cavada, Karissa Cichon, Solana Cruz, John Curley, Joseph Currie, Joseph D'Andrea, Melissa Daywalt, Brigid Demko, Joseph Derr and Sabrina Dillon.

Andrew Dormer, Timothy Duceman, Bryonna Dusendschine, Nicholas Dusendschine, Jacquelyn Eckley, Stephanie Evans, Matthew Fletcher, Rachel Fletcher, Frederick Fruet, Diane Gidaro, Abbi Grabowski, Nikolas Gratti, Bridget Greco, Leah Green, Grayce Griffiths, Jacob Guss, Eric Halcovich, Samantha Harper, Brieanna Hine, Nathan Hinkle, Shaun Holmes, Jacob Horan, Dylan Hornberger, David Horsfield, Nicole Horsfield, Felicia Hughes, Kaitlynn Hughes, Andrew J. Huhn, Amanda Hurlburt, Chelsea James, Sarah James, Shelby Jeffrey and Sara Johnson.

Samantha Joseph, Ian Kanezo, Nicholas Karlaza, Tyler Karycki, Kristen Klusman, Tianna Kobilis, James Kofskie, Ashley Koschoff, Brett Krah, Devon Krah, Kelsey Kraynak, Shawna Kuzma, Eric L. Leonowicz, Shaine Mychal Lepley, Tyler Leschinsky, Brittany Maclaren, Cassandra Mace, Joshua Maloney, Hollie C. McAndrew, Michael McAndrew, Andrew Megosh, Aaron Melfi, Kathleen Merena, Cody Minnig, Mark Minnig, Christopher Monahan, Christine Mrozek, Tiffany Mulvehill, Cassandra Niglio, Corey Nolter, Hoyt Norris, Alyssa Palewicz, Jared Pollack, Carissa Pupo and Tara Reed.

Kendra Reppert, Jeremy Sala, Brian Santelli, Allison Sarisky, Elizabeth Sassani, Andrea Joan Sentkoski, Matthew D. Shearn, Justin M. Shoppy, Robert Shustack, Cara Sinopoli, David Slotterback Jr., Paul Snyder, Teresa Snyder, Katherine Sowa, Samantha Spieller, Sage A. Stablewski, Joseph Staskiel, Edward Stewart, Michael James Stutzcavage, Joseph Anthony Swatsky, Jonathan Thomas, Ryan Tloczynski, James Tomedi, Tirus Twyne, Jacob Vellner, Brett Venna, Bridget Wagner, Nathan Wagner, Dominic Weikel, Sabrina Wills, Raymond Wywadis III, Brittany Yeager, Ashley Yorks, Cassandra Zarick and Richard Zigarski.

All Saints, Kulpmont

All Saints Evangelical Lutheran, 12th and Scott streets, Kulpmont.

Pastor - The Rev. Alfred J. Bashore.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Participants - Perry Adams or Marsha Karnes, communion assistant; Shirley Tomtishen and Marsha Karnes, altar guild.

Assumption BVM

Assumption BVM Ukrainian Catholic Church, Paxton Street, Centralia.

Pastor - The Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko.

Confessions - Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Divine liturgy - Sunday, 11 a.m.

Augusta Baptist

Augusta Baptist Church, 1371 Boyles Run Road, Sunbury.

Pastor - Robert S. Commerford.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Augustaville Wesleyan

Augustaville Wesleyan Church, 2556 State Route 890, Paxinos.

Pastor - Greg Clendaniel.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:40 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, adult Bible study, Faith Weaver Friends and youth Bible bowl, 7 p.m.

Bethany Bible

Bethany Bible Fellowship Church, 654 Wilburton Road (across from Mount Carmel Estates), Mount Carmel.

Pastor - Philip Norris.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:45 a.m. with reception of new members.

Message - "In God's Boot Camp."

Evening service - 6 p.m. in the pavilion.

Activities - Tuesday, Senior Saints Fellowship at Pine Burr, 10 a.m.; Wednesday, King's Kids, adult prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m.

Bethel Union

Bethel Union Chapel, West Cameron Township.

Pastor - Dave Butler.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m. (all ages)

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m. Graduation Sunday honoring Danny Rebuck and Cassida Coveleski

Special music - Caleb Keefer.

Participants - Sherri Keefer and Barbara Foura, nursery; Alicia Varney and Darlene Derck, junior church.

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

Activities - Monday, ladies meeting, 6 p.m.; Tuesday, prayer worship, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, 6 p.m.; Thursday, Bible school meeting, 6 p.m.

Calvary Bible

Calvary Bible Fellowship Church, 35 S. Second St., Shamokin.

Pastor - Ferdie Madara.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship service - 10:35 a.m. praise team. Message by Pastor Madara.

Evening prayer service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Monday through Friday, Vacation Bible School for ages 4 through Grade 12, 6:30 to 9 p.m. with Bible stories, crafts, snacks, videos and games.

Catawissa Circuit

Pastor - Anna Fyock.

Bethel United Methodist, 168 Bethel Road, Catawissa.

Worship - 8:15 a.m.

Sunday school - 9:15 a.m.

Fisherdale, 268 Fisherdale Road, Elysburg.

Worship - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday school - 10:30 a.m.

St. Paul's (Easter Furnace UMC), 83 Easter Furnace Road, Catawissa.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship - 10:45 a.m.

Christ's Reformed UCC

Christ's Reformed UCC, Helfenstein.

Pastor - Jerry Schlegel.

Worship time - 10:15 a.m.

Scriptures - Acts 16:9-15.

Message - "Going With Goodspeed."

Participants - Dorene Choffel, worship assistant; Jeff Haas, organist.

Church of Our Lady

Church of Our Lady, 47 S. Market St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Very Rev. Francis J. Karwacki.

Weekday Masses - 8 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

Weekend Masses - Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday, 8:30 and 11 a.m.

Confessions - Daily before 8 a.m. Mass; Saturday, 3 to 4 p.m.

Church of Nazarene

Church of the Nazarene, Route 901, Lavelle.

Pastor - Rick Newman.

Worship service - 9:30 a.m. with Sunday school for all ages. Communion will be served.

Activities - Wednesday, adult Bible study, "Ashes to Fire." for Lent, 10 a.m.; Children's Teen Activities, 6:30 p.m.

Clark's Grove UMC

Clark's Grove United Methodist Church, Irish Valley Road, Paxinos. Handicapped accessible.

Pastor - Susan J. Roehs.

Prayer time - 8:30 a.m.

Sunday school for all ages - 9 a.m.

Worship service with nursery care - 10:10 a.m.

Youth group for grades three and up - 6 p.m.

Divine Redeemer

Divine Redeemer Church, West Avenue and Poplar Street, Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Rev. Robert A. Yohe Jr.

Weekday Masses - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 7 a.m.

Weekend Masses - Saturday, 4 p.m. (Sunday obligation); Sunday, 8 and 10:30 a.m.

Confession - Saturday, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.; after morning novena Thursday, during First Friday Holy Hour or any time by appointment.

Novenas - Tuesday, Miraculous Medal novena after morning Mass; Thursday, St. Jude Thaddeus novena after morning Mass; first Saturday of month, St. Francis novena after morning Mass.

Elysburg Alliance

Elysburg Alliance Church, 113 W. Alpha Ave., Elysburg.

Pastor - The Rev. Guy R. Thompson.

Assistant pastor - The Rev. Chad Froelich.

Sunday services - 8 and 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Froelich.

Sunday school for all ages - 9:15 a.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Collide Youth Group (junior and senior high), from 6:45 to 8:15 p.m.; adult Bible study prayer, Sanctuary, and Kids Konnection (grades 3 to 5), both 7 p.m.; Saturday, July 2, Contemporary celebration service with Rev. Froelich, 6:30 p.m.

Elysburg Presbyterian

Elysburg Presbyterian Church, 320 W. Valley Ave. (Route 487), Elysburg.

Pastor - Matthew Young.

Early worship - 8 a.m.

Sunday school for all ages - 9 a.m.

Formal worship - 10:30 a.m. with nursery.

Scripture - Acts 2:1-21.

Participants - Debbie Cecco, organist; Eileen Reigal, pianist; contemporary praise group.

Activities - Sunday, Mission Committee meeting, 11:45 a.m.; Wednesday, grief support group at the Young's, 7 p.m.; Thursday, women's prayer group, 5 p.m., Young Guys Discipleship Group, 8 p.m.; Friday, Breakfast with Jesus Bible study, 8:30 a.m.

Elysburg UMC

Elysburg United Methodist Church, 171 W. Center St., Elysburg.

Pastor - The Rev. Ivan Alberts.

Morning worship - 9 a.m. liturgy. Confirmation Sunday with a coffee fellowship to follow.

Participants - Tom Wodzak, head usher; Dean and Judy George, greeters; Lisa Shappell, scripture reader; Stephanie Myers, acolyte; John Romanoski, organist; Lynne Homiak and Jeanie Crowl, pianists; Marie George and Evelyn Vought, shepherding, and Nan Weller, choir director.

Activities - Tuesday, Circle of Prayer, 10 a.m.

Emmanuel UMC

Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 328 Center St., Coal Township.

Co-pastors - The Revs. Al Schell Jr. and Betty Ford.

Worship - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Adult Sunday school - 10:30 a.m.

Activities - Tuesday and Thursday, exercise class, 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, 1 p.m.; cookie ministry, third Wednesday, 5 p.m.; movie night, fourth Sunday, 5 p.m.

Faith Bible

Faith Bible Church, Burnside.

Pastor - Perry Ross.

Pianist - Robert Witmer III.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Evening service - 7 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Kids Club, Bible study and prayer, 7 p.m.

Faith Community Church

Pastor - Dale Hill, 751-5101.

Sunday worship - 10:30 a.m.

First Baptist

First Baptist Church, 10 E. Lincoln St., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Samuel Derr.

Church School - 9:45 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:45.

Organist - Judith Pensyl.

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

Pianist - Redelia Shoffler.

Activities - Wednesday, choir rehearsal, 6 p.m., prayer, praise and testimony, Bible study, led by Ron Evans, 7 p.m.

First Baptist

First Baptist Church, 510 S. Ninth St., Trevorton.

Pastor - Dan Conklin.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday morning worship - 10:40 a.m.

Sunday evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, choir practice, 6 p.m.; prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m.

First Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church, Sunbury and Liberty streets, Shamokin.

Pastor - Rev. Dr. Carrie L. Stine.

Adult Sunday school - 9:15 a.m.

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

First UMC

First United Methodist Church, 46 N. Hickory St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Rev. Daniel Siddle.

Worship service - 10 a.m. We will honor our high school graduates: Amy Besser, Kaitlinn Hughes, Kristen Klusman and Matthew Shearn.

Sermon - "What's That Noise?"

Sunday school - 10:15 a.m.

Participants - Sharon Styer, organist; Jim Weissinger, head usher; Ken Purcell family, greeters; Bob Welker, sound director; Linda Gula, liturgist; Rachael Williams, acolyte; Barbara Malick, children's time; Dolores Klusman, counter.

Activities - Sunday, youth group, 6 p.m.; Monday, quilting, 10 a.m., trustee meeting, 7:15 p.m.; Tuesday, Al-Anon meets at 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Bible study in the board room, 7 p.m.; Thursday, NA woman's group meets, 6 to 7 p.m.

First UMC

First United Methodist Church, Sunbury Street, Shamokin.

Pastor - Zachary Hopple.

Adult Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship - 10 a.m.

Participants - Bill Slanina, liturgist; Sharon, Bill and Emily Slanina, greeters.

Activities - Monday, Bible study in parlor, 6 p.m.

Good Shepherd

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 35 N. Ninth St., Ashland.

Pastor - The Rev. Dana Heckman-Beil.

Worship service - 9 a.m. with Holy Communion. Pentecost Sunday.

Sunday school - 10:15 a.m.

Participants - Donald Lahr, worship assistant and lay reader; George White and Wilmer Quick, ushers; Kaeli Quick, acolyte; Kelsey Burns, crucifer; Dot and Wilmer Quick, greeters; Leah Briggs, nursery.

Grace Chapel

Grace Chapel, 126 Airport Road, Shamokin.

Pastor - Alan Langelli.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship _ 10:30 a.m.

Evening worship - 6:30.

Wednesday prayer - 6:45 p.m.

Upcoming events - Today, new member class; Tuesday, business meeting; Thursday, Anniversary Committee meeting; June 26, communion and baby dedication.

Grace Evangelical

Grace Evangelical Independent Church, Locustdale.

Pastor - The Rev. Rose M. Marquardt.

Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 11 a.m.

Grace Lutheran

Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10 S. Seventh St., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. David M. Byerly.

Service of Word and Sacrament - 10:15 a.m.

There will be no Sunday School classes until September.

Participants - Ron Weller, worship assistant; Charlene Pell, cantor; Brett Przekop, acolyte; Diane Schrader and Diana Cheunes, communion bearers and altar care; Bruce and Jeanne Romanic, Nancy and Bill Joraskie, Joan Lineweaver and Roger Giffin, Elgie and Barry Schleig and Beverly and Harry Deitz, ushers; Diane Calhoun, organist; Charlene Pell, choir director.

Activities - Sunday, Joint Stewardship/Confirmation Dinner in fellowship hall, noon; Monday, final Girl Scout meeting in fellowship hall, 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Mary Martha Dinner at Brewser's, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Joint Worship and Music Committee in church parlor, 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, Upper Susquehanna Synod Assembly at Susquehanna University.

Grace Lutheran

Grace Lutheran Church, 146 W. Avenue, Mount Carmel.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Joan Brown.

Service and Eucharist - 10:45 a.m. The Day of Pentecost.

Guest speaker - The Rev. Robert Logan.

Participants - Linda Rubendall, organist, Diann Marie Repko, lector; William Brass, usher; James Reiner, bell ringer and usher; Judith Barnes, secretary and altar preparer.

Church services for St. Matthew's (Slovak) Lutheran Church, 301 West Avenue, Mount Carmel, will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 146 West Avenue, Mount Carmel, during the month of June.

Grace UCC

Grace United Church of Christ, Third and Market streets, Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Rev. Joan A. Brown.

Morning worship - 9 a.m. with Holy Communion

Participants - Bryan Lapinski, organist; Aurora Froutz, acolyte; Sandra Beaver and Alverna Moleski, choir directors; Renee Apichell and Mary Sebastian, ushers.

Activities - Thursday, choir rehearsal, 6:30 p.m.

Harvest Worship

Harvest Worship Ministries, Upper Road, West Cameron Township, rear of the old elementary building.

Pastor - Sandy Whary.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

For information, call 850-4280.

Hidden Valley

Hidden Valley Community Church, 162 Hidden Valley Lane, Mifflinburg. A non-denominational Bible church.

Pastor - Gary L. Owens.

Worship service, 10 a.m. in clubhouse. Casual dress welcome.

Himmel's Church

Himmel's Church, 1941 Schwaben Creek Road, Rebuck, 425-2200.

Pastor - Pastor Jane H. Compton.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Communion is celebrated the first Sunday of every month.

Activities - June 19, Homecoming in the church grove at 10 a.m. with Holy Communion followed by a covered dish lunch.

Holy Angels

Holy Angels Church, 855 Scott St., Kulpmont.

Pastor - The Rev. Andrew Stahmer.

Confessions - Saturday, 4 to 5 p.m.

Weekday Masses - Monday and Thursday, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m.

Weekend Masses of Obligation - Saturday, 5:30 p.m., Sunday, 8:30 and 10:30 a.m.

Activities - Tuesday, bingo at the activity center, doors open 4:30 p.m., games begin 6:15 p.m.

Holy Trinity

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 150 E. Lincoln St., Shamokin.

Celebrants - The Rev. Ronald R. Lausch, rector, and the Rev. Richard A. Hazzard, deacon.

Worship - 10 a.m.

Handicapped accessible. Church school for children. Nursery care available.

Hope Community Church

Hope Community Church, non-denominational Bible church, 551 W. Fourth St. (formerly Lazarski's Banquet Hall), Mount Carmel.

Pastor - Dan Renno.

Christian education for all ages - 9 a.m.

Fellowship time - 9:45 a.m.

Praise and worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Irish Valley UMC

Irish Valley United Methodist Church, Irish Valley Road, Paxinos.

Pastor - Beverly Petrovich.

Sunday school - 9:15 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Johnston City UMC

Johnston City United Methodist Church, 200 Main St., Ranshaw.

Pastor - Beverly Petrovich.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Participants - Barbara Cummings, greeter; Daniel Petrovich, ushers; Janet Fellin, pianist.

Living Power Ministries

Living Power Ministries, 45 E. Fourth St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor - Walter Kriskie.

Praise and worship - 10:30 a.m., children's church.

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Bible study, 7 p.m. Children and teens welcome.

Miller's Crossroads

Miller's Crossroads UMC, 1929 Plum Creek Road, Stonington, Sunbury RR 4.

Pastor - John Parker.

Worship - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday school - 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Betsy Bradigan, organist.

Ministry of the Water and Spirit

Ministry of the Water and Spirit Church, 324 E. Sunbury St., Shamokin.

Pastor - James Bowers.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Bible study and hymn praise song, 6 p.m.

Mother Cabrini

Mother Cabrini Church, North Shamokin Street, Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Martin Kobos.

Parochial vicar - The Rev. Adam Ziolkowski.

Pentecost Sunday

Sunday Masses - Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday, 7, 9 and 11 a.m.

Confession - Daily, 7:30 to 7:50 a.m.; Saturday, 3 to 3:45 p.m.

Recitation of the Rosary - Monday through Friday, 5 p.m., in the church.

Activities - Monday, Feast of St. Anthony of Padua, bingo at church hall, 6:15 p.m.; Wednesday, Picnic Grounds set-up at 9 a.m. at the RCA picnic grounds, RCIA at St. Pauline Center, 6:30 p.m;

Picnic Grounds set-up, Wednesday through Friday, at 9 a.m. at the RCA Picnic Grounds.

Picnic food prep, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. at the Vine Street kitchen and Monday evening at 6:30 p.m.

Mountainside

Mountainside Assembly of God, 1900 Trevorton Road, Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Richard H. Earl.

LIFEQuest breakfast for all - 9 a.m.

LifeQuest classes for all ages - 9:30 a.m. with nursery available.

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m.

Evening activities - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, SUPERKids for ages 5 to 11 and adult discipleship, 6:30 p.m.

Mount Zion

Mount Zion Welsh Congregational United Church of Christ, Grant and Church streets, Shamokin.

Pastor - Gerald Lloyd Jr.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Scripture - I Corinthians 12:3b-13; John 7:37-39.

Sermon - "Living Water Flows."

Participants - Phil Maue, organist.

New Life Church

New Life Church of God, 129 W. Second St., Mount Carmel.

Interim pastor - The Rev. John D. Ashbaugh.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Prelude - 10 to 10:30 a.m., flute solo.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m., with junior church and nursery available.

Handicap accessible, wheelchair available.

Prayer room open every day, 8 a.m. to noon, church side/back entrance.

Oak Grove UMC

Oak Grove United Methodist Church, Marley Road, Overlook.

Pastor - The Rev. Kay Painter.

Worship - 9 a.m.

Sunday school for all ages - 10:35 a.m.

Activities - Monday, women's Bible study, 7 p.m.; Thursday, free karate classes at church, children 5 to 12, 6:30 to 7:15 p.m.; 13 and up, 7:30 p.m.; Bountiful Blessings outreach, 6 to 8 p.m., first and third Fridays of the month.

Our Lady of Hope

Our Lady of Hope Parish, Chestnut and First streets, Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Adrian Gallagher, O.F.M. Conv.

Daily Masses - Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 7 a.m. in the parish center chapel, except on days when a funeral Mass is celebrated.

Weekend Masses - Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday, 7 and 11 a.m.

Holy Day of Obligation Mass - 5:30 p.m. Vigil Mass and 7 a.m. morning of the Holy Day.

Sacrament of Reconciliation - Saturday, 3 to 3:45 p.m.

Parish office hours - Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Activities - Sunday, Rainbow Club meeting in parish hall, 3 p.m.; Monday, pierogie order pick up in parish hall, noon to 4 p.m.; Tuesday, pierogie order pickup in parish hall, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesday, Bible study at Mrs. Zyla's, 2 p.m.

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Church, 599 W. Center St., Elysburg.

Pastor - The Rev. Alfred P. Sceski.

Masses - Weekdays, 8 a.m.; Saturday, 5 p.m.; Sunday, 8 and 10:30 a.m.

Confession - Saturday, 4 to 4:30 p.m.

Restoration Ministries

Restoration Ministries Church, 525 W. Chestnut St., Shamokin.

Pastor - Paul K. Eby.

Pre-service prayer - 9 a.m.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m. for all ages, JoAnne Long, superintendent.

Sunday worship service - 10:30 a.m. Pastor Paul will speak. The worship team will lead praise and worship. Special prayer will be available. Nursery care will also be available.

Children's church - 11:15 a.m. for ages 4 through 11 in the social room, directed by Shirley Cintron.

Student Life Ministry Youth Service - 6:30 p.m. in the Youth Life Center for all teens ages 12 to 18.

Activities - Monday, God's Grub in church social hall for the community, 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, Cross Training Youth Disciple Class, dinner at 3 p.m., class taught by Fran Jones from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.; Saturday, Soul Seekers group for ages 18 and older in prayer room, 7 p.m.

St. John Lutheran

St. John Lutheran Church, 29 High Road, (3 miles from red light in Elysburg, on Route 54, turn right on High Road), Danville.

Pastor - The Rev. Christoph Teille.

Sunday school - 9:15 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

St. John's UCC

St. John's United Church of Christ, 117 N. Eighth St., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. John W. Silliman.

Contemporary service - 9 a.m., fellowship hall.

Participants - Worship band, music; Margaret Morris, organist; Casey Henninger, pianist; David Spotts, lay reader.

Sunday school/Coffee hour - 10:10 a.m.

Traditional service - 11 a.m., sanctuary.

Participants - Youth Choir, music; Margaret Morris, organist; Casey Henninger, pianist; David Spotts, lay reader.

St. John's UMC

St. John's United Methodist Church, 1218 W. Arch St., Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Navin Satyavrata.

Lay leader - Paul Stehman.

Worship - 9 a.m. (Nursery up to age 4).

Sunday School for all ages - 10:15 a.m.

First Sunday: Holy Communion.

First Sundays, Holy Communion, prayer walk, 10:30 a.m. (April to November); Sundays, youth fellowship, (October to May), 5:30 p.m.; First and Third Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Healing Service, parish hall; Wednesday, Bible study, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, choir practice, 8 a.m. (September to May).

Prayer chain, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Upcoming events - Sunday, Community Prayer Gathering (Shamokin Alliance Church), Theme: Repentance; July 3, Prayer Walk, 10:30 a.m.; July 17, Methodist United Meeting (Miller's Crossroads UMC), 1 p.m.; July 18, United Methodist Men's meeting (Clark's Grove UMC), 6 p.m.; July 24 to 29, Vacation Bible School, 6 p.m.; Aug. 7, Prayer Walk, 10:30 a.m.: Sept. 3, choir practice resumes after summer, 8 a.m.

St. Joseph's Church

St. Joseph's Church, 11th and Walnut streets, Ashland.

Pastor - The Rev. John W. Bambrick.

Sister Elizabeth Kealy, IHM, director of religious education.

Confessions - Saturday, 3 to 3:30 p.m. Any time by appointment.

Rosary prayed before all Masses.

Mass schedule - Today, 4 p.m. (Vigil for Sunday); Sunday, 8:30 a.m.; Monday and Tuesday, 8 a.m.; Wednesday, adoration all day from 9 a.m., concluding with night prayers, benediction and miraculous medal devotions at 4:45 p.m., Mass at 5 p.m.; Thursday, 8 a.m.; Friday, noon; First Fridays Sacred Heart devotions.

St. Ann's Chapel, open each day for prayer. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday, 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon; Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

St. Mark Lutheran

St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 225 N. Market St., Elysburg.

Pastor - The Rev. Christoph Teille.

Worship service - 9 a.m. CCC (coffee, church and conversation) every third Sunday of the month.

St. Matthew Lutheran

St. Matthew (Slovak) Lutheran Church, 301 W. Avenue, Mount Carmel.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Joan Brown.

Church services for St. Matthew's will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 146 W. Avenue, Mount Carmel, during the month of June.

St. Michael Orthodox

St. Michael's Orthodox Church, 131 N. Willow St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Very Rev. Michael H. Evans.

Divine liturgy - 9 a.m.

St. Patrick's

St. Patrick's Church, 331 W. Shamokin St., Trevorton.

Pastor - The Rev. Adrian Gallagher, O.F.M., Conv.

Weekend Masses - Sunday, 9 a.m.

Weekday Masses - 8 a.m., Wednesday.

Sacrament of reconciliation - Wednesday after morning Mass or during the day.

St. Paul Lutheran

St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4663 Upper Road, Gowen City.

Pastor - The Rev. David Byerly.

Service of Word and Sacrament - 8:15 a.m.

Participants - Carol Shinskie, lector; Stephen Wengrenovich, acolyte/crucifer; Claire Bonshock and Carol Shinskie, communion assistants; Walter Boyer, organist and choir director.

Activities - Sunday, Joint Stewardship/Confirmation Dinner, Grace Lutheran Fellowship Hall, noon; Wednesday, Joint Worship and Music committeee meeting at Grace Church Parlor, 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, Upper Susquehanna Synod Assembly at Susquehanna University.

St. Paul's Reformed

St. Paul's Reformed United Church of Christ, Gowen City.

Pastor - Jerry Schlegel.

Worship time - 9 a.m..

Scriptures - Acts 16:9-15.

Message - "Going With Godspeed."

Participants - Cliff Artman, organist.

St. Pauline Visintainer

St. Pauline Visintainer Center, 1150 Chestnut St., Box 115, Kulpmont.

"Chapel of the Crucified."

Eucharistic adoration - Friday 6 p.m. to Saturday 7 p.m.

St. Pauline Visintainer Center, open Saturday, Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.

St. Peter's Lutheran

St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran, Aristes.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Joan Brown.

Service and Sacrament of Holy Communion - 9 a.m.

SS Peter and Paul

SS Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, Avenue and Beech Street, Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko.

Confessions - Saturday, 3:15 p.m. and Sunday, 8:15 a.m.

Weekday Divine Liturgy - 8 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Weekend Divine Liturgies - 4 p.m. Saturday and 9:15 a.m., Sunday.

Religious education classes will resume in the fall.

St. Peter's UCC

St. Peter's United Church of Christ, Overlook.

Pastor - Paul T. Gurba Jr.

Morning worship - 8:30 a.m.

Sermon Title - "Evil Intended: The Ascension of Jesus Christ."

Verse of the Day - Luke 24:51. "And it came to pass, while he (Jesus) blessed him, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven."

Organist - Virginia Nefsky.

St. Stephen's

St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Fourth and Maple streets, Mount Carmel.

Celebrants - The Rev. Ronald R. Lausch, rector, and the Rev. Richard A. Hazzard, deacon.

Lectors - Faith Kirchhoff and Donald Phillps.

Service - 8:30 a.m., Holy Eucharist.

Handicapped accessible.

Activities - Wednesday, 8:45 a.m., Holy Eucharist and healing service; second and fourth Saturdays, 6:15 p.m., Holy Eucharist at the St. Stephen Center.

Salem UCC

Salem United Church of Christ, 1300 W. Pine St., Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Jean Eckrod.

Morning worship - 9 a.m. Sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated on this Pentecost Sunday.

Assisting - Taylor Kashner, acolyte; Grace Stank, lay leader; Judie Zabawsky, organist; Brian Williams and council, communion assistants; Helen Martin and Suzzette Steinhart, gifts of the people; Salem Choir, anthem; Judie Zabawsky, choir director and accompanist Larry Diorio, lighting/sound; Julie Updegrove, beginners class; Mary Lou Sacona and Peggy Taylor, greeters; Alice Elliott, Mary Ann Klembara, John Klembara and Brian Williams, ushers.

Special note - A quiet room for young infants and nursery care for infants and toddlers is available during the morning worship hour at 9 a.m. Christian Education is provided for children 3-12 years old immediately after Children's times at the beginning of morning worship.

Activities - Tuesday, meat pie preparation starting at 8 a.m.; Wednesday, meat pie dinner, 4 p.m. till ?

Seventh Street

Seventh Street Primitive Methodist Church, 34 N. Seventh St., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. David Wildoner.

Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Sermon - "Backsliding"

Participants - Benjamin Brudnicki, acolyte; Bryan Lapinski, organist; Kathy Albright and Audrew Schoch, greeter; Dr. Albright, servant of the month; Jennifer Brudnicki, nursery workers; Kathy Albright, Children's Church Teacher.

A nursery is available for children birth to age 5 during the morning worship service. Children's church is provided for children over age five with a focus on lessons from the Bible.

The water jug is back and we will be again raising funds for the school in Guatemala. There is a need at the school for computers.

Manna for the Many this month is canned vegetables.

Activities - June 24, Welcome reception for Pastor Dave Wildoner and his wife, Sheila, in the church at 6 p.m. with sandwiches and desserts provided. The New Life Gospel Singers will provide the entertainment.

Shamokin Alliance

Shamokin Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, Second and Arch streets, Shamokin.

Pastor - Samuel Bellavia.

Worship services - 8:30 and 10:50 a.m.

Baby and toddler nurseries and children's church available.

Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

Sunday worship service - 7 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Kidz Klub for Jesus, Alliance Boys for Christ and teen ministries, 6:45 to 8:15 p.m., transportation for ages 5 and up, call for pickup; small groups and cottage prayer meetings available, contact church at 644-1718 for days, locations and times.

Shamokin God's Missionary

Shamokin God's Missionary Church, 768 Bear Valley Ave., Shamokin.

Pastor - Jim Richards.

Adult Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

Children's church - 10:45 a.m.

Sunday worship - 10:45 a.m.

Sunday evening worship - 6 p.m.

Van available to pick up church-goers.

Parsonage phone - 644-1156. Pastor's cell - 541-2768.

Activities - Wednesday, Bible study, 7 p.m.

Stonington Baptist

Stonington Baptist Church, Hosta Road, Paxinos.

Pastor - The Rev. J. Douglas Hallman.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Morning worship - 10 a.m.

Evening service - 7 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, prayer service, 7 p.m.

Stonington Wesleyan

Stonington Wesleyan Church, 2113 Hosta Road, Route 61, Stonington.

Pastor - The Rev. Robert A. Jones Jr.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m. Junior church available.

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

Children's ministry - 6 p.m., all ages welcome.

Activities - Wednesday, adult prayer and Bible study, 6:30 p.m.

Three Angels

Three Angels Message Outreach, 7 E. Sunbury St., Shamokin (former Jewish synagogue).

Pastor - John Peters.

Saturday sabbath school - 9:30 a.m., with classes for children and adults.

Saturday worship - 11 a.m.

Activities - Wednesday, family Bible studies, 7 p.m.

Trevorton UMC

Trevorton United Methodist Church, Shamokin Street, Trevorton.

Pastor - The Rev. Kay Painter.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:40 a.m.

Participant - Nancy Korenkiewicz, pianist, organist and choir director.

Trinity Evangelical

Trinity Evangelical Congregational Church, Arch and Anthracite streets, Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Mark Brownson.

Sunday school - 9:20 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m., held in regular church.

Worship - 7 p.m.

Activities - Tuesday, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Trinity Bible club; Wednesday, prayer meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Trinity Lutheran

Trinity Lutheran Church, 65 E. Sunbury St., Shamokin.

Worship service - 10 a.m. with a fellowship hour following to honor high school graduate Jamie Levi

Interim pastor - The Rev. David Hauck.

Assisting minister - Ron Manney.

Participants - Jan Morrison, organist; Hugh Morrison, acolyte; Carol Eidem, altar guild; Don Ponatoski and Ron Manney, counters.

Activities - Friday and Saturday, UCC assembly at Susquehanna University.

Union Evangelical

Union Evangelical Free Church, 601 W. Fifth St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor - Larry Coutlee.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Morning worship - 10 a.m.

Informal Evening Service, 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, prayer meeting at the church, 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, Fit for the Kingdom will be held at the home of Jill Keener, 100 Broad St., Ashland (across from hospital), 6:45 p.m.

Those needing transportation to any of the services, call 339-4043.

United Presbyterian

United Presbyterian Church, 100 E. Fifth St., Mount Carmel.

Lay Minister - Wm. Ronald Dixon.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Message - "The Work of the Spirit."

Scripture - Acts 2:1-4 and 12-21.

Participants - Dale Schimpf, organist; Jennifer Evans, acolyte; Ellsworth George and Andrew Mekosh, ushers; Ginny Snyder, greeter.

Victory Bible Church

Victory Bible Church, Snydertown Highway, three miles from Elysburg.

Pastor - Kevin Kline.

Worship - 10 a.m., with Sunday school for youth at the same time.

Evening worship - 7 p.m.

Wilburton UMC

Wilburton United Methodist Church, Wilburton.

Pastor - Rose M. Marquardt.

Worship service - 8:45 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Participants - Laurie Steinhilber, organist; Synice Lindenmuth, children's Sunday school; Brylee Walter, acolyte; Tim Brosius, Keith Brosius and Jacqueline Kobilis, ushers.

Zion Primitive

Zion Primitive Methodist Church, 33 N. Market St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Rev. Robert F. Smith.

Worship service - 9:30 a.m.

Participants - Elizabeth Broda, Stan Broda, Ken Angeli, Cy Kufu, Gene Leatherman and Beverly Cooper.

Activities - Saturday, Bible class, 10 a.m., studying the Book of I Samuel. Everyone welcome.

Zion UMC

Zion United Methodist Church, Aristes.

Pastor - The Rev. Rose M. Marquardt.

Worship service - 9:50 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Zion Methodist

Zion United Methodist Church, Trevorton Road, Coal Township.

Co-pastors - The Revs. Al Schell Jr. and Betty Ford.

Sunday school - 10:30 a.m.

Worship - 11:15 a.m.

As years go by, the special occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, holidays - that prompt us to send greeting cards do not change. However, the people on our mailing list do. Births and new friendships add names to the list, while faded friendships and deaths remove names.

This week, on June 9, my mother and dad would have marked their 63rd wedding anniversary. My dad died two years short of their 50th anniversary and my mother passed away two years ago, so there was no need to send a card.

Instead, an old, black-and-white snapshot from Easter 1955 tells their story - if you know what to look for. The photo is of my folks posing with a baby carriage containing their first born (me), who had been around for about 6 months.

My dad looked sharp in a suit and fedora and my mother was stylish in a mink stole, a gift from my dad. If you look closely enough, you will see my dad is wearing a ruby ring, a gift from my mom.

My dad taught school in the days when teachers earned much more respect than money, so I don't know how they managed to scrimp and save to buy each other such pricey gifts in their first six years of marriage.

I do know that they never gave each other gifts as monetarily extravagant after that. I don't think they had much money left after supporting my two brothers, sister and me.

Yet that is the story of the marriage. The sacrifices they made for us out of love live on in each of us, our spouses and the next generation.

Likewise, the story of Jesus' sacrifice out of love lives on in all of us.

+++

God give us His all - His love.

Two grads missed, name changed

Ashley Fodor is a member of the 2011 graduating class at Shamokin Area High School. In a listing of the graduates in the report of the commencement in Friday's edition, she was listed as Ashley Weikel. Her name was recently legally changed to Ashley Fodor.

Also, graduates Alexander Startzel and Brianna Picarelli were inavertently left out of the Shamokin Area High School Class of 2011 graduation list.

The News-Item apologizes for any inconvenience.

Drug and alcohol meeting

SUNBURY - The Northumberland County Drug and Alcohol Program Advisory Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 16, at the Northumberland County Drug and Alcohol Program, 217 N. Center St. There will be a presentation of the training program.

Coal Crackers Club meeting

ELYSBURG - The Coal Crackers Club's annual picnic at Knoebel's Resort will be held on Wednesday, July 27. Mail and e-mail notices were sent out to all members of the club June 9. Make reservations early. Anyone else interested in attending the picnic is asked to call 898-6920. New members are welcome.

SHAMOKIN - The city, Northumberland County and Shamokin Area School District are close to an agreement to split the cost of razing a dilapidated structure along Market Street that has been an eyesore and potential safety hazard for several years.

The building was featured in a story in the June 4 edition of The News-Item. On Tuesday, County Commissioner Vinny Clausi met with city officials at the site, and by Friday, plans were being discussed, he said.

Clausi said he had the support of fellow commissioners Merle H. Phillips and Frank Sawicki in helping to fund the work.

"The city is working with the other taxing bodies to get the building down as soon as possible," said city clerk Steve Bartos.

Bartos said that some funding is available through a Community Development Block Grant.

"We want this to happen as soon as possible because of safety concerns," he said.

Although a decision couldn't be confirmed Friday, city solicitor H. Robert Mattis was confident that a decision will be reached during the Monday city council meeting.

"We are all in agreement this needs to be done, but there are procedural loops that still need to be taken care of as soon as possible," said Mattis. "There's a lot that has to be done yet, especially when using public funds."

Clausi said Friday he could not disclose information about a potential agreement, but was confident that the issue will be resolved Monday.

"We were working really hard the last two days, and we will resolve this one way or the other," he said. "We want to do what's right for the safety of the people, and I appreciate all the cooperation during the last few days."

Owner not responsible

The owner of the partially collapsed apartment building at 28-32 N. Market St. was found guilty on 21 counts for failing to repair the building last year, and is no longer responsible for it. City code enforcement officer Barry Stoud said he can no longer cite Orlando Development Inc., or its owner, Orlando Mirarchi, for violating the Building Official Code Administrators (BOCA) code because the building was offered at Northumberland County's upset sale in September due to $9,718.43 in unpaid taxes. Orlando Development owned the building since 1987. No one had lived in it since 2000.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Father J. Quinlan, secretary for education of the Diocese of Harrisburg, announced that Deacon Martin McCarthy was appointed by Bishop P. McFadden as the executive director and secondary principal of Lourdes Regional Catholic School. The appointment is effective for the 2011-2012 school year.

A 20-year education veteran, McCarthy is currently serving as dean of students for the secondary program at the school. He has been associated with Catholic education in Northumberland County since 1991, when he was a social studies teacher at Lourdes Regional High School. From 2001 to 2007, he was principal of St. Monica's School in Sunbury.

McCarthy received his undergraduate degree in political science from Temple University, a master's degree in public administration from Shippensburg University and his teaching and principal certification from Susquehanna University and Bucknell University, respectively. He was ordained a deacon for the Diocese of Harrisburg in May 2010.

"I always wanted to be the principal of Lourdes and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the students and families of Our Lady of Lourdes school community," said McCarthy.

Sister Margaret McCullough, IHM, served as elementary school principal at Lourdes since 2006 and has been transferred to a school in northern Virginia by her religious community. David Becker, secondary principal at Our Lady of Lourdes, is retiring from his position at the end of the current school year. Sister Margaret Ann Quinn, IHM, will return to the diocese to take over McCullough's duties.