MOUNT CARMEL - A 17-year-old borough male has been charged with felony offenses of robbery and aggravated assault for allegedly stealing a $400 iPod at knifepoint from a 15-year-old boy Friday morning in the 200 block of West Sixth Street.

Blake William Boyer, of 510 E. Fifth St., is charged as an adult by Police Chief Brian Shurock and Patrolman Matthew Dillman with two counts each of robbery and aggravated assault, and misdemeanors of possessing an instrument of crime, theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property and simple assault (two counts).

Boyer was arraigned Friday by Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones and committed to Northumberland County Prison in Sunbury in lieu of $50,000 bail.

According to a criminal complaint, the 15-year-old victim from Mount Carmel was walking home from school shortly after 11 a.m. when Boyer and a 16-year-old borough male approached him. The victim told police Boyer walked up to him and told him to give him his iPod. The 15-year-old said he pleaded with Boyer not to steal his iPod, but Boyer, who was brandishing a knife in his right hand, continued to demand the iPod. The teen said he relinquished the iPod to Boyer because he was afraid the defendant was going to stab him.

Shurock located Boyer and the 16-year-old male a short time later and took Boyer into custody.

The 16-year-old male, who wasn't charged in the incident, told police he was walking home from school with Boyer when Boyer found a knife. The 16-year-old male said Boyer then demanded the victim give him his iPod. The 16-year-old male and Boyer then walked to Boyer's residence, where Boyer gave the iPod to the 16-year-old.

Police said the 16-year-old gave the iPod to Shurock when the police chief located him and Boyer.

SUNBURY - Northumberland County is anticipating an award of federal funds under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the area.

The selection was made by a national board that is chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and consists of representatives from the Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Council of Jewish Federations, Catholic Charities, National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA and United Way of America which will provide the administrative staff and functions as fiscal agent.

The board was charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country.

A local board made up of representatives from county government, United Way, Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Catholic Charities and other agencies will determine how the funds awarded to Northumberland County are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service organizationsa. The local board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive these funds.

Under terms of the grant from the national board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private voluntary nonprofits or units of government, 2) have an accounting system and conduct an annual audit, 3) practice nondiscrimination, 4) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, 5) if they are a private voluntary organization, they must have a voluntary board.

Public or private voluntary qualifying organizations may apply by contacting Cheryl Beeler or Cathy Teisher at Haven Ministry 1043 S. Front St., Sunbury. The deadline for applications to be received is Tuesday.

SELINSGROVE - Completing a course of study spanning nearly two years, members of area Lutheran churches will be inducted this week as authorized lay leaders during the annual assembly of the Upper Susquehanna Synod of the Lutheran Church in America at Susquehanna University.

The candidates attended their last of 21 sessions Saturday in the course conducted and sponsored by the synod's Lay Ministry Institute (LMI). They will be recommended for induction as authorized lay worship leaders or authorized lay evangelists by the Rev. Melody Sell, dean and course coordinator, and the Rev. Wayne Muthler, chairman of the LMI Board of Directors.

SHAMOKIN - The congregations of the Seventh Street Primitive Methodist Church, Shamokin, and Zion Primitive Methodist Church, Mount Carmel, are pleased to welcome the Rev. David E. Wildoner Sr. as the new pastor. He is the husband of Sheila Wildoner.

The church reports that Pastor Wildoner teaches the Word of God in a practical manner that applies to everyday life.

"He has always said that preaching needs application," the church said in an announcement about his appointment. "He used humor to clarify important Bible points. He is sincere and has a deep reverence for the Word of God."

Wildoner has an associate degree in biblical studies from the School of Biblical and Theological Studies in Lake Charles, La., a bachelor's degree in biblical studies from Master's International School of Divinity in Evansville, Ind., and a master's certificate in biblical counseling from Master's School of Continuing Education. He is a board-certified member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.

He retired as a staff sergeant from the U.S. Army National Guard.

Before he went into full-time ministry, Wildonere had a local preacher's license from the Primitive Methodist Church of the USA and was associate pastor of Franklin Street Primitive Methodist Church in Plymouth.

His wife worked for PATHS at Mercy Hospital, both in Wilkes-Barre and Scranton. She now works for her husband in ministry and they are looking forward to their ministry in Shamokin and Mount Carmel.

DANVILLE - The accused killer of a Danville woman will be evaluated by a psychiatrist to determine whether he is competent enough to stand trial, said the Montour County district attorney Robert W. Buehner Jr.

Buehner said Dr. Richard Fischbein, of Wilkes-Barre, will examine Westley T. Wise, 32, of Danville.

Wise will stand trial for allegedly killing his girlfriend, Jessica Frederick, 25, formerly of the Shamokin area, at their 508 E. Front St. home in January.

While the county will pay for the evaluation, Columbia-Montour President Judge Thomas James Jr. capped the price at $3,000. The prosecution also has the option to hire its own psychiatrist to make a determination.

"This is the first major issue that needs to be decided. We'll take it from there," said Buehner on Wednesday.

In May, Wise's attorney, Anthony J. McDonald, Berwick, filed documents in court stating that Wise is incompetent to stand trial because of serious head trauma that was a result of an accident in 1984 when he was six.

Additionally, he has depression, anxiety, paranoia and bipolar disorder, and has been under almost continuous psychological and psychiatric care since the accident. He was under such care at the time of his girlfriend's murder, according to the documents.

There were other motions filed by the defense in terms of jury selection and trial re-location, but it was determined Monday by the judge that those decisions would be made when a trial date is set, said Buehner.

According to court documents, Wise had admitted that he stabbed Frederick with a serrated steak knife in the throat and chest between 7 and 8 p.m. Jan. 24 after an argument about their relationship. He had been drinking beer prior to the incident and took various medications after the stabbing.

Wise pleaded not guilty before James. He was charged by Sgt. William Wilt III of the Danville Borough Police with the death of Frederick.

Buehner said previously that the death penalty will not be sought.

Wise remains in Montour County Prison, where he is being held without bail.

n MOUNT CARMEL - Matthew M. Zigarski, 19, of 500 W. Girard St., Atlas, pleaded guilty Wednesday to disorderly conduct and was ordered by Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones to pay a $500 fine plus costs and placed on probation for 12 months.

Additional charges of resisting arrest, underage drinking and public drunkenness were withdrawn.

Zigarski was charged by Mount Carmel Patrolman David Donkochik in connection with a May 1 disturbance in the first block of North Vine Street.

n MOUNT CARMEL - Joseph A. Scherr, 21, of 339 E. Seventh St., Mount Carmel, waived to court Wednesday charges of robbery, criminal conspiracy to commit robbery, criminal conspiracy to commit theft, theft, criminal conspiracy to commit receiving stolen property and receiving stolen property relating to a robbery at Tower Sales Mini Mart at Third and Maple streets on Dec. 13, 2009.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Patrolman David Donkochik.

Scherr was ordered by Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones to appear for arraignment July 18 at Northumberland County Courthouse in Sunbury, at which time he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

Police reported Scherr drove a vehicle and gave items to co-defendant Michael Hillsee of Philadelphia to conceal his identity, then split money stolen from the convenience store with Hillsee for drugs.

Hillsee was previously charged by borough police with robbery-related offenses.

n MOUNT CARMEL - Blake W. Boyer, 17, of 510 E. Fifth St., Mount Carmel, waived to court Wednesday two felony counts each of robbery and aggravated assault, and misdemeanors of possessing an instrument of crime, theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property and simple assault (two counts).

Boyer was charged as an adult by Mount Carmel Police Chief Brian Shurock and Patrolman Matthew Dillman with stealing a $400 iPod at knifepoint from a 15-year-old borough boy on June 10 in the 200 block of West Sixth Street.

Boyer was ordered by Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones to appear for arraignment July 18 at Northumberland County Courthouse in Sunbury, at which time he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

Register for coal cracker race

SHAMOKIN - Participants can now register for the 2011 Amazing Coal Cracker Race, sponsored by Peach and Company hair salon and run by Peach Krebs, former competitor on CBS's "The Amazing Race."

The race will kick off from the Fireman's Memorial at Independence and Market streets at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 2. A maximum of 20 teams of two to four members will compete in the race for a $500 first prize.

Registration costs $20 per person and all proceeds benefit the Citizens for a Better Community organization. Competitors can register at Peach and Company or by calling 648-6171. The first 20 teams to register and pay the entry fee will be entered.

CSIU furloughs 19 staff members

MONTANDON - As a result of proposed state cuts to education funding, the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit board of directors voted unanimously to furlough 19 staff members Wednesday.

The Daily Item reported CSIU Executive Director Robert Witten said the difficult decision was not a reflection of quality of work, but rather the impact of the pending state budget.

The furloughed positions included three in the Parent Child Home Program, eight classroom aides and five social workers, the newspaper reported.

Seventeen local school districts in Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder and Union counties, including Shamokin Area, Line Mountain, Southern Columbia and Mount Carmel Area, use services provided by the CSIU.

Special pool rates today, Father's Day

SUNBURY - To show appreciation to patrons, admission to the Sunbury pool is $2 all day today. On Sunday, Father's Day, dads will be admitted for just $2.

Call 286-1441 for more information.

Report cards available starting today

MOUNT CARMEL - Report cards will be available for Mount Carmel Area Junior/Senior High School students grades seven through 11 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the principal's office starting today.

Clerk's office closed next week

SUNBURY - The city clerk's office will be closed next week in order to move from the second floor to the first floor. During this time, the telephone will not be in service, said clerk Cheryl E. Delsite.

Those who need to contact the clerk's office can call the treasurer's office at 286-4588. Swimming lesson registrations can also be dropped at the treasurer's office.

HARRISBURG ­- Lawmakers could use another $27 a day for lodging during June, July and August because of a boost in per diem rates by the federal government.

While some have criticized the change, it's uncertain how many state lawmakers can even take the seasonal rate bump.

State Rep. Sid Michaels Kavulich, D-114, Taylor, Lackawanna County, said an increase in the lodging rate can affect what some state lawmakers collect while on business in Harrisburg. He said it's unfair for Washington to increase the lodging per diem during a time of economic troubles for many people.

Earlier this spring, the U.S. General Services Administration announced the lodging per diem in Harrisburg will increase from $107 a day to $134 a day for June, July and August. The lodging per diem will revert to $107 in September.

The per diem to cover the cost of meals will stay at $51.

This is apparently the first time a seasonal rate increase is being applied by the federal General Services Administration to stays in Harrisburg, the business location for state lawmakers. Starting in 2005, the GSA created a seasonal rate for per diems to cover higher hotel rates in areas that see an upsurge in tourism. The GSA uses lodging data to set rates. The agency sets a regular per diem rate for public officials to use each Oct. 1.

The GSA this year merged Harrisburg and Hershey, a nearby resort town, into the same area for seasonal rate calculation purposes, said House Comptroller Alexis Brown.

Brown said most lawmakers aren't eligible for the seasonal rate. That's because they calculate per diems by a method approved by the federal Internal Revenue Service that is different from the rate set by GSA regulations. This is the so-called "high-low method" that reflects per diems based on the destination of business travel - one for designated high-cost areas and another for all areas.

There's usually only a few dollars difference between per diems calculated under the two methods.

Many lawmakers aren't eligible for the seasonal bump either because they submit expenses for reimbursement and don't take legislative per diems or use the IRS method if they collect per diems. Reps. Kurt Masser (R-107) and Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-108), along with Sen. John Gordner (R-27), have said previously they are submitting verified receipts of actual spending rather than collecting the automatic per diem.

SUNBURY - A state appeals court has upheld a Northumberland County judge's decision to reduce the property tax assessment of the Weis Markets Distribution Center in Milton Industrial Park that angered Northumberland County Commissioner Vinny Clausi.

When Saylor heard the case last year, he ruled the property was worth $23 million - a $5 million drop that Clausi said would hurt the county, Milton Borough and Milton Area School District.

The county claimed the fair market value of the property is worth nearly $30 million, while company officials said it's worth $17 million.

At the time of the ruling, Clausi accused Saylor of "taking $4 million from the working people" and showing favoritism toward a rich company.

Saylor took offense at Clausi's criticism and blasted the commissioner in a press release in November. The judge stated, "To suggest that I have acted out of an improper motive in the decision reached in the recent Weis Markets tax assessment appeal is blatantly false. These slanderous comments by Mr. Clausi reflect a total ignorance of the judicial process."

Saylor said his decision was based solely upon the law and the proper evidence presented in the courtroom, regardless of the status of any of the litigants appearing before him.

Saylor said both the county and the company presented credible evidence to support their claims, but since there was an approximate $14 million difference, Saylor did not feel comfortable adopting either claim.

Saylor used a former case decision, approved by the state Supreme Court, in which the fair market value was determined to be somewhere in the middle of the claims. He also compared several other Weis properties in the state that were sold.

The court found the market value to be $23,936,000 and the assessment to be $5,409,536.

When contacted Thursday for comment about the appeals court upholding Saylor's ruling, Clausi stated, "It's a sad day in Northumberland County because the borough of Milton will lose a lot of money. In my opinion, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. In my opinion, the original assessment was correct and I don't know why it was lowered."

The commissioner added, "If that is the ruling, then we must honor it. But I can't believe a multi-billion dollar corporation like Weis Markets is trying to take money from the county, Milton Borough and Milton Area School District."

Saylor was unavailable for comment Thursday.

HARRISBURG - The topic of abortion hasn't been discussed in Harrisburg for quite some time, but the latest legislation is bringing the controversy back into public discussion.

Legislation awaiting approval in the House of Representatives would hold abortion providers to the same standards as outpatient surgical clinics that perform procedures ranging from colonoscopies to laser surgery.

The discussion arises after a grand jury report earlier this year regarding unsanitary and allegedly criminal conditions at

Dr. Kermit Gosnell's abortion clinic in West Philadelphia, resulting in the death of a woman and seven infants.

State Rep. Kurt Masser was one of the members of the House to sign the legislation, which passed 38-12 on Tuesday.

"Whether or not abortion is allowed by law, patients should expect a certain degree of safety," he said when asked about the issue Thursday.

Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-18, a self-described reluctant "yes," said moments before the vote, "We are women and we are strong and I guarantee you that you have ticked someone off with this," according to a McClatchy News Service story.

Access vs. safety

The legislation was sponsored by Sen. Patricia Vance, a Republican from Cumberland County and a former nurse. In its original form, her bill codified the Department of Health's inspection process for abortion clinics.

An amendment sponsored by Sen. Bob Mensch, R-24, and incorporated into Vance's bill requires clinics to become "ambulatory surgical clinics" if they offer abortion services after the ninth week of pregnancy.

Democratic lawmakers said the changes would force some clinics to add staff or undergo costly renovations. Women's health advocates and civil libertarians argued that lax state oversight, not an absence of effective law, led to the deaths at Gosnell's clinic. But Michael Geer, president of the Pennsylvania Family Institute, said if the outpatient standards had been in place earlier, what happened in the Gosnell clinic would have been avoided or "come to light much sooner," McClatchy reported.

"If the issue is denying access, that's certainly not the case with the bill that I've signed," Masser said. "We are just looking at the safety of the women."

Although against abortion, the Rev. Richard Earl, pastor of the Mountain Assembly of God Church, Coal Township, said he agrees with the legislation.

"It concerns basic medical care," he said. "Why wouldn't we want to provide the same care as other procedures, especially when it is as serious and potentially dangerous as abortion?"

Margaret Conrad, executive director of the Catholic-based Pregnancy Care Center in Shamokin, disagrees with the argument that the legislation will limit women's access to an abortion.

"Will it mean less accessibility for women who want abortions? I don't believe so," said Conrad. "It is a very lucrative business and will not allow many closures or restrict patients from receiving abortions."

Conrad said the Pregnancy Center stresses education to the women they help.

"We want women to think of their health when making a decision," she said. "They should realize who they're entrusting their bodies to."

Not on public radar

Earl believes the legislative developments regarding abortion haven't made much news locally because of a natural anti-abortion stance among a conservative population.

"The prime candidates to receive an abortion are 18- to 35-year-old women who are in college or early in their careers," he said. "There are less people like that here than the larger cities."

Another key factor in the abortion issue is the recent advancements in technology, like a 3D ultrasound that provides a detailed image of the fetus.

"There's no question that something like a sonogram has a dramatic impact on a woman's decision to receive an abortion," said Earl. "It shows them that the fetus is not just a piece of tissue, but a baby. It's hard for them to go through with the procedure."

Conrad said those at the Pregnancy Center can only hope and pray that legislation ensures better education on all three options: birth, abortion and adoption.

"It's interesting to note that statistics show that the numbers of people who want a child are almost identical to the number that receive abortions each year," said Conrad. "They do have a choice."

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Borough Council is giving the West End Fire Company and the American Hose Chemical and Fire Company an ultimatum - merge or else.

This was the decision made Thursday night at the monthly meeting after a recommendation from Mayor J. Kevin Jones.

"I'm tired of it. This is the time to make a decision. You're either the borough council and you'll make a decision or you're just a bunch of guys hanging out," he said to the borough.

Jones, while the mayor of the borough, does not have any votes on council.

Talk of the proposed merger began more than a year ago, but members of the borough council have made it clear they feel neither company is attempting to move forward with the venture.

The talks stalled amid problems, including fluctuating membership, extensive damage to buildings and equipment, lawsuits and other legal issues, such as the sentencing of former American Hose ambulance committee chairperson Thea Tafner for federal charges of embezzling up to $1.8 million from the company over a 10-year period.

Members of council, including Robert Shirmer and President Tony Matulewicz, said they think American is purposefully holding out in order to "suffocate" West End, forcing a shut down so members would have no other choice but to join American Hose or other fire companies in town.

Two struggling companies, instead of one larger, stronger one, could affect the townspeople, according to Jones.

"I don't like to be the bad guy, but I'm concerned about the town's safety," he said.

Shirmer, also the president of American Hose, agreed that something needed to be done, but noted West End would have to merge with American and not the other way around, because of the extensive damages to the West End building.

The borough spent $24,000 to fix the roof and water damage at the West End building and will keep insurance money to cover that cost. The building still has some damage.

"The logical thing is (West End) to go to the Americans. It's a better and bigger building," said Vice President Leroy "Chico" Moser.

Councilmen Robert Barrett and Joseph Lapotsky made and seconded the motion to order the two fire companies to have a completed merger agreement by the July 18 workshop meeting. It passed 6-0. Shirmer abstained from the vote because of a conflict of interest.

If the fire companies do not have an agreement by July 18, the council will hammer out the details for them. The borough cannot force the companies to merge, but they can shut down one or both buildings since they are borough-owned, effectively giving the companies no choice logistically.

Lapotsky and Barrett made and seconded the motion to order the American Hose to vacate the three ambulance bays and social quarters, and to remove all property from those areas. The motion passed 7-0. The council will use the extra space for storage and equipment because the borough garage is uninsurable due to roof damage.

Other business

Lapotsky was sworn in as the newest member of council at the beginning of the meeting. The position was vacated when Ronald Tanney resigned in April for health reasons.

Lapotsky was a business education teacher at Tamaqua for 34 years and served as an adjunct instructor for both Reading and Luzerne community colleges, teaching a variety of business administration courses. In addition to his educational endeavors, Lapotsky said he has knowledge and experience in construction and vocational areas. Lapotsky also served on the Conyngham Township Board of Supervisors from 1982 to 1986.

"I am very proud to have him here," said Jones, noting his education, business and construction experience. "He's a great community leader."

Laptosky said he looks forward to working with every member of council.

In related business, Laptosky's resignation from the Mount Carmel Borough Zoning Board was unanimously accepted.

COAL TOWNSHIP - It was a "thumbs-up" project that attracted the attention of hundreds of motorists early this week on the short stretch of Route 61 between Tharptown and the western approach to the municipal limits of Shamokin and Coal Township.

Wednesday, a long planter, no more than two feet wide extending along the base of a stone wall on the southern side of the highway was not only cleared of weeds, but has become a colorful garden of flowers serving as a picturesque welcome to residents and visitors alike.

"We thought it would make a difference," said Janet Pearson, of Trevorton Road, who along with a friend, neighbor and co-worker in the nursing profession, Natalie Baskin, enlisted the help of their young children.

The families weeded, cultivated and planted the flowers along the busy highway for three days this week, working six to eight hours a day. Also joining in the project were Pearson's mother, Angela Spotts, of Trevorton Road and a passerby, Jodi Britton. She was so impressed when driving in the area on Tuesday, she parked and put in about four hours of work on the project without hesitation.

"Natalie and I wanted to do something to make our area better," Pearson said. "So each time we passed that section we thought planting flowers, over a hundred of them, would be ideal for making a difference. We talked it over with my mom, Angela, and she jumped on the idea and offered her help."

Other participants of the families involved were Sophia, Alaina, Nadia and Wolfgang Pearson, children of Andreas and Janet Pearson, and Peyton and Emily Baskin, children of Carl and Natalie Baskin, all of Trevorton Road.

The families planned for weeks and, according to Janet Pearson, the project was inspired by Charlie Neese, of Shamokin, who conducted a similar project in the area last year. Neese continues his volunteer effort by placing small American flags in the same section as a patriotic gesture during national holidays.

Township's blessing

Calls were placed to the township code enforcement officer for permission and he gave approval "with his blessings."

Stahl's Greenhouse at Meadowview donated approximately 20 flats of colorful plants.

"They were more than willing to assist," Pearson said.

Three adults and six children working with shovels, hoes and other gardening tools between the concrete barriers and the mountain stone wall apparently also met the approval of passing motorists.

"Many of them gave us thumbs up and beeped their horns," Pearson said. "We want to thank everyone, particularly Stahl's for their support and all the passersby for their encouragement."

WILLIAMSPORT - The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) arrested Jeffrey Boop, 50, of the Milton area, in a remote, wooded location south of Montandon on Wednesday.

On April 27, the United States Attorney's Office in the Middle District of Pennsylvania filed criminal charges against Boop. He was charged with possession of child pornography. Boop also has a prior conviction in Florida relating to sexual abuse and abusive sexual conduct involving a minor.

The charge arose out of a nationwide operation targeting individuals possessing and trading child pornography. If convicted of the offense, Boop faces a maximum penalty of 20 years federal imprisonment, and a fine of $250,000. The investigation was conducted by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Philadelphia.

On June 14, Boop was scheduled to appear before U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones in federal court in Williamsport for his initial appearance, and to enter a guilty plea to the criminal charge. Boop failed to appear and an arrest warrant was issued.

"Cases which involve the exploitation and abuse of children are given the highest priority," acting U.S. Marshal Martin J. Pane said. "Individuals who fail to appear for federal court proceedings show their total disregard for the criminal justice system. They must be brought to justice."

U.S. Marshals in Williamsport initiated a fugitive investigation. Campsites and river lots in and around Sunbury, Northumberland, Lewisburg, Montandon and Milton and wooded locations in western Montour County were searched.

On Wednesday evening, U.S. Marshals located Boop in a heavily wooded area approximately one mile south of Montandon, between Route 405 and Route 147. At the location, U.S. Marshals found a generator and seized a rifle, a machete, several knives, an axe, a saw, ammunition, two laptop computers, a 30-day supply of foodstuffs, five 5-gallon water containers and a large amount of alcohol.

Boop, who is incarcerated at Lycoming County Prison in Williamsport, will be arraigned by Jones in federal court in Williamsport at 2 p.m. today.

U.S. Marshals were assisted by several agencies that comprise its Middle District of Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force, including the Lycoming County Sheriff's Office, the Union County Sheriff's Office and the Northumberland County Adult Probation Office.

MOUNT CARMEL - Members of the Mount Carmel Area School Board had hoped to have its 2011-2012 spending plan ready for its workshop Thursday, but they asked for more time before making tough decisions.

Ninety minutes into the session, district solicitor Edward Greco informed administrators - who were sitting outside the meeting room, in case the board had questions for them - that they were no longer needed and could go home for the night. He then informed the press that he had no information to release, and that the board hoped to hold one more work session before its regular meeting June 22, when the final budget is scheduled to be passed.

The board approved a $17,702,743.44 proposed final budget on May 19, which included the administration's recommendation for a 5-mill increase for residents in Northumberland County and a 2.54-mill increase in Columbia County. At the time, the board said they hoped to either eliminate or reduce the tax increase if state funding increased when Pennsylvania's budget is passed.

The tax increase would raise $350,000, but the district is facing a $2 million deficit, brought on by a $1.4 million dollar decrease in funding from the state. After the first couple meetings, the board was optimistic that they could balance the budget without raising taxes.

Since passing the preliminary budget, the board has met for weekly work sessions.

"We are looking at every possible way we can to cut the budget and we hope to do so with the least amount of impact to our students," board President Rose Marquardt said two weeks ago.

"We will be looking at cutting programs, furloughing teachers and checking into the contract of every service that is provided to the district," Superintendent Cheryl Latorre said June 2. "We will be in contact in the near future with the state Department of Education seeking approval to close some programs."

During the first half-hour, members of the public raised concerns over programs rumored to be cut.

Several parents and coaches spoke in support of the girls volleyball team.

"We have had signups with 30 girls that want to participate and we held our first fundraiser," said parent Anne Frasch. "We have girls who will be attending volleyball camps in July and we don't want that to be wasted. Some of the senior girls are being looked at by collegiate programs, but if the program is taken away, they have no shot."

The parents said many of the players have developed self-esteem and a sense of teamwork playing the organized sport.

The coaches said it costs about $3,500 a year to run the program, and they hope to produce more revenue for the district in 2012 with more home games. The team had only five games last year, when the high school gymnasium floor was being refurbished; they have scheduled nine this year.

Barbara Bettleyon, teacher for the Pre-K Counts program, spoke in support of the program and how its $146,000 cost is being paid exclusively by grant money, not the district.

"The students who come through the program benefit greatly and we have worked to be frugal with the money we have to help the district. This year's grant is for salaries and benefits alone for the teacher and aides, and snacks for the students," Bettleyon said.

In fact, Bettleyon has been able to use part of the money to help purchase gym equipment and supplies, including picnic tables and a pavilion at the elementary school.

The board thanked both groups for their input before continuing the session.

The board met with athletic director Greg Sacavage and head football coach Carmen DeFrancesco in an executive session to discuss personnel issues.

Banquet hall open house

RANSHAW - An open house will be held at the Brady Fire Company Banquet Hall from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 26.

Hookah lounge opening soon

BLOOMSBURG - Mike Pasquini, 27, a Bloomsburg businessman, plans to open the Crimson Lion Bloomsburg, a late-night hookah lounge and coffee shop by the fall semester at Bloomsburg University.

The Press Enterprise reported that Pasquini and two partners want to open the Middle Eastern-style establishment at 37 E. Main St., next to the Capitol restaurant.

It would cost between $9 and $20 to rent a hookah, which is a water pipe used to heat tobacco so people can inhale the vapors without burning it, Pasquini told the Bloomsburg newspaper.

He expects to be open from noon to 1 a.m. Monday through Saturday and thinks the space can accommodate between 60 and 80 people and live music.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The operator of the Bunker Hill Field Complex hopes his efforts to give local folks something to do will, in the long run, keep youth involved in local sports.

Rick Kashner's organization is sponsoring a visit by the Walker Bros. Circus Tuesday at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. at the Shamokin Area High School football practice field. Each show is 90 minutes long.

Kashner said he wanted to provide entertainment for local residents at an affordable price, and hopes people will take advantage of the opportunity.

"People are always saying that Shamokin is a retirement town and there is nothing for the young people to do in this area," he said. "A family of three can go to the circus for $12."

Tickets for additional children under 15 are $5. Advanced ticket sales are available at Spangenberg's and Mac's Hoagies. Tickets at the gate are $14.

Walker Bros. Circus, of Florida, has been providing family entertainment for more than 60 years. Acts include aerialists, contortionists, horses, juggling and more. If the circus doesn't make any money, it will not come back, Kashner noted.

The Shamokin Area School Board gave permission to use the football practice field. There is plenty of parking. For more information, call 606-4436.

MOUNT CARMEL - All parties are once again in agreement to settle a lawsuit brought by a family who says their disabled 6-year-old son was mistreated on a school bus.

Five days after accusing Mount Carmel Area School District of holding up the settlement, Charles E. Haddick Jr., attorney for Marvin E. Klinger Jr. bus company, Dornsife, told federal court in Williamsport that progress was once again being made.

His complaint on June 9 had prompted Judge John E. Jones III to arrange a teleconference involving the parties for Wednesday. But Haddick informed the court a day earlier by letter that all parties had agreed to terms and the teleconference was no longer necessary. He thanked the court for its assistance.

The bus company, school district and Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, Montandon, were defendants in a suit filed by Mason M. and his mother Stephanie M., as they are identified in court documents. The family claimed the student was emotionally, verbally and physically abused by a bus driver as he was transported to and from school in the 2008-2009 school year.

The suit, originally filed in October, named the district and the CSIU as co-defendants; an amended complaint in December added the bus company.

The parties originally agreed to settle in April, but Haddick last week had complained to the court that the district was stalling in an effort to put further responsibility on the bus company.

Calls to Haddick and the family's attorney, Dennis McAndrews, in an attempt to determine the amount of the settlement, were not returned.

The four candidates who won their respective primaries for Northumberland County commissioner were the top campaign spenders, according to reports filed with the county board of elections.

Incumbent Commissioner Vinny Clausi, who finished first in the Democratic primary, spent more than any other candidate. In fact, he is the only candidate whose total primary campaign expenditures, as listed for two separate reporting periods, exceeded the five-figure mark. Clausi reported spending $8,971 in a pre-primary expense statement and $9,987 in the latest post-primary report. In all, Clausi, who self-funds all his campaigns, spent close to $19,000. Clausi's expenses in the most recent report were for campaign flyers, cost of mailings and election night expenses.

Post-primary reports, which were due Thursday, reflect campaign finance information from May 3 through June 6. The pre-primary reports, due May 6, showed contributions and expenses as of May 2.

The campaign committee of the other Democratic nominee, Commissioner Frank Sawicki, reported expenses in the latest report totaling $570 and a cash balance of $991. Sawicki reported spending $753 in the earlier expense reporting period.

Commissioner Merle Phillips, Republican nominee, reported expenses totaling $4,240, which was for a direct mailing. This is in addition to the $1,180 listed in an earlier report that he spent prior to May 2.

Citizens for Rick Shoch, formed on behalf of the other Republican nominee, reported contributions totaling $4,810 and expenses amounting to $1,728 for the period running from May 3 to June 6. Shoch's committee has a cash balance of $5,443. Most of Shoch's expenses were for advertising. Up to May 2, Shoch's committee had spent $3,548.

According to financial reports filed for other commissioner candidates for the period from May 3 to June 6:

- Friends of Myron Turlis, formed on behalf of Democrat Myron Turlis, reported spending $1,067 for newspaper advertising.

- Democratic candidate Dodie Rippon Lovett reported her campaign expenses did not exceed $250.

- Republican Samuel Schiccatano's campaign organization, Committee to Elect Schiccatano, reported expenses totaling $663.

- Republican Larry Wary reported $434 in expenditures.

- Republican Thomas Aber reported an ending cash balance of $1,243.

- Republican Charles P. Horvath reported expenses of $909.

- Republican Terry Curran did not spend any money during this period.

County row, DJ

Candidates for county row offices had no opposition in the primary election.

- Friends of Tony Phillips, Republican candidate for county controller, reported expenses of $474 and a cash balance of $922.

- Friends of Kevin P. Gilroy, Republican candidate for treasurer, reported $3,527 in contributions, most of which was in small donations of between $50 and $250; expenses of $1,113 and a cash balance of $3,466.

- Friends of Winhofer, formed on behalf of Sandy Winhofer, Democratic candidate for treasurer, reported expenses of $670 and a cash balance of $1,827.

- The Committee to Keep Reiner Sheriff, the campaign committee of incumbent Democratic Sheriff Chad Reiner, reported $3,551 in contributions, $200 in expenses, $1,526 in in-kind contributions and a cash balance of $4,751.

- Democratic District Attorney Tony Rosini reported his campaign expenses did not exceed $250.

In the contested race for district justice in the Mount Carmel area, Hugh A. Jones, the incumbent who won both Democratic and Republican nominations, reported campaign contributions totaling $1,872 and expenses in the same amount for the period from May 3 to June 6. Jones spent an additional $6,496 in the campaign, as listed in the first financial statement filed before the primary.

The Committee to Elect Rick Wilson, formed on behalf of Wilson, Jones' opponent, reported expenditures of $952.

HARRISBURG - A new Marcellus drilling impact fee bill in the House is generating a buzz and drawing support from several Republican lawmakers representing Northeast Pennsylvania as well as environmental groups.

The measure introduced this week by Rep. Marguerite Quinn, R-143, Doylestown, would levy an annual graduated per-well fee starting at $50,000 during a well's first two years of production and eventually drop to $10,000 for an operating well more than 20 years old.

The fee would expire when production drops under a threshold.

Quinn's bill would split impact fee revenue four ways: 50 percent to local municipalities and counties with producing Marcellus wells; 25 percent to the state Growing Greener environmental program and a hazardous site cleanup fund; 20 percent for road and bridge work, and 5 percent to county conservation districts.

Quinn created a stir by suggesting she may try to amend her bill into the fiscal code bill - a necessary part of the state budget package - when it comes up for a vote later this month. If the move is successful, it could create problems for GOP legislative leaders trying to approve a budget by the June 30 deadline.

Gov. Tom Corbett wants to hold off on impact fee action until his Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission issues recommendations next month. Senate GOP leader Joseph Scarnati, R-25, Jefferson County, has warned that amending impact fee provisions in a main budget bill could draw a veto from the governor. Scarnati has sponsored his own impact fee bill and is urging lawmakers to deal with the issue separately before they recess for the summer. Reps. Mike Tobash, R-125, Pottsville; Mario Scavello, R-176, Mount Pocono; Mike Peifer, R-139, Honesdale, and Rosemary Brown, R-189, Middle Smithfield Twp., are co-sponsoring Quinn's bill.

"The time to assess an impact fee is now," said Tobash.

"Our constituents support an impact fee that stays locally and is used to monitor and remediate any issues that arise from Marcellus Shale wells," said Peifer.

Penn Future, a statewide environmental group, said Quinn's bill is preferable to Scarnati's bill, which was approved this week by the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.

"It (House bill) raises more revenue, directs that revenue to proper use and does not include a provision that would take away local government zoning power to limit the harm caused by drilling in communities," said Penn Future CEO Jan Jarrett.

A coalition of groups pushing to replenish funding for Growing Greener supports the bill too.

Quinn's bill would generate $238 million in the first full year compared to $106 million for Scarnati's bill, according to an analysis by the Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center, a Harrisburg think tank that advocates state levies on drilling.

Scarnati's bill is retroactive to cover natural gas production in 2010.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Twelve-year-old Cheyanne Greager just might have the magic touch.

At least, that's what people have been telling her when they find out she raised more than $7,000 in 12 days for the 2011 Shamokin Area Relay for Life.

"I'm really excited about this and happy we raised the money. I want to show people that kids don't have to be bad and they can do things when they put their minds to it. We can do anything," said the Coal Township girl at the Kemp Memorial Stadium Friday evening.

Less than two months ago, her godfather and uncle, Alberto Padrone, of New York, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was given between three and six months to live. The cancer has since spread to other organs.

She formed Team Padrone's Warriors on June 5 with three of her friends.

"I want to put a stop to it," she said.

Her strategy? A simple message e-mailed to everyone she knows asking for donations. Twelve days later, the team raised more than $7,000.

Her effort was praised by several key relay organizers.

"For a child to put all this above other things, it's amazing, especially for a 12-year-old," said event Chairperson Kathy Masser. "It's not about her. Other kids need to look at that."

Linda Leach, senior community income development specialist for the American Cancer Society, gave Greager similar positive words.

"It's the most touching thing," she said. "I'm hoping it's an example for other kids."

Padrone was not able to attend Friday, said Greager, but he is planning to to visit the relay today.

Her stand at the relay, located near the scoreboard, featured baskets, which will be raffled today, and free foot massages from employees of New Beginnings, of Shamokin.

'Stay strong'

The honorary chair this year Donna Milbrand, who is currently fighting inoperable lung cancer. Diagnosed in 2009, the cancer is treatable and has been shrinking. She will receive chemotherapy every three weeks for the rest of her life.

"Stay strong. You have to fight. Don't give up," she told participants moments before the survivor lap.

In tears, she asked for a moment of silence for everyone who lost their battles with cancer.

'Pretty confident'

The theme this year is "Rocking Around the Relay," for which teams decorated tents and stands with CDs, records and jukeboxes.

Masser said the theme was chosen to give relay participants a chance to raise their voice.

"It only takes one voice. Together we are one," she said.

Masser was inspired to participate in the relay by her husband, John, who passed away in 2008 from cancer of the spinal cord. She has her own team and her daughter also has a team.

Masser, in her first year as chair, expressed her excitement only six hours into the 24-hour event. With 24 teams participating and $16,000 raised in online donations Friday evening - not to mention other donations, she said she's "pretty confident" the group will exceed its goal of $55,000.

Masser expressed her gratitude to everyone who has helped her and donated to the event.

Leach also praised the hard work of committees and participants.

Three other area relays - Selinsgrove, Line Mountain and Mount Carmel Area - have raised $145,000 for the American Cancer Society, according to Leach, who atticipates the Shamokin Area relay will put the region over its $200,000 goal.

The relay continues today until 1 p.m.

At 10 a.m., the Penny Walk begins.

From 11 a.m. to noon, current school board members Tracey Witmer and Mark Anonia and board candidates Bernie Sosnoskie and Ron McElwee will take turns in the water balloon chair.