COAL TOWNSHIP - Emily Manning was recently named the 2011 recipient of the Thomas J. and Rita T. Skeuse Scholarship. The $10,000 award is given on behalf of White Flyer, Coal Township, a division of Reagent Chemical and Research Inc.

Applicants compete from facilities in 24 states and are judged on a written essay, SAT scores, citizenship, high school grades and community involvement.

A committee of independent educators, college admission officers and guidance counselors review and choose the final recipient.

Manning is the daughter of Paul and Barbara Manning, Coal Township.

She is a 2011 graduate of Shamokin Area High School and will be attending Bloomsburg University in the fall to begin studies in pre-med.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Officials in Northumberland County government and at Phoenix Rehabilitation said more than 100 walkers and hikers participated in their inaugural National Trails Day Walk in celebration of the American Hiking Society's 19th annual National Trails Day.

The local event covered approximately 3.2 miles of the proposed site of the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) along Route 125 between Burnside and Gowen City in Coal Township. The event also featured local businesses and organizations showcasing goods and services.

David Hoy, Phoenix Rehabilitation facility director, and Kathy Jeremiah, grants manager and AOAA project coordinator for the Northumberland County Planning Department, said they were extremely pleased with the turnout.

"A walk such as this is an excellent example of how individuals can stay active and incorporate physical activity into their daily lives," said Hoy.

Event sponsors included Immix Wireless, Jane Gaugler, Longaberger consultant; Realty World, Molesevich Associates; Weis Markets, Geisinger Health System, Gap Racing, Service 1st Credit Union, Cathy Toland, Thirty-One Consultant. and Bressi and Martin Real Estate Inc.

AOAA is currently in the planning phase. The proposed facility on county land would touch parts of Coal, Zerbe, Mount Carmel and East and West Cameron townships.

Editor's note: Shamokin Area High School asked its graduating seniors to submit a form containing information on their high school careers and college plans. Following are those from students who submitted information to meet the school deadline. Information on those students not listed here is welcome for future publication. Send to The News-Item at 707 N. Rock St., Shamokin 17872, or to editorial@newsitem.com.

Emily Barnes, of Coal Township, a daughter of John and Rosemarie Barnes, plans to attend Lock Haven University to major in psychology. A scholar athlete and an honor roll student, she participated in girls track and field and was captain of the girls varsity soccer team. She was involved in events such as Santa's Sleigh and the Anthracite Festival as part of the interact club and was also a member of the key club. She is employed at Geisinger Medical Center as part of their interim staffing.

Casey Bradigan, a daughter of Sandy and Jeffrey Bradigan, plans to attend Millersville University to major in psychology. She was the recipient of a scholarship from the Shamokin/Coal Township alumni association. She was editor-in-chief of the yearbook, president of the National Honor Society and was involved in band and orchestra. She is employed at Ghezzi's restaurant.

Courtney Brown, of Shamokin, a daughter of Lisa Brown, plans to attend Luzerne County Community College to take general courses in preparation for nursing.

Devin Conrad, of Coal Township, a daughter of Jeffrey and Sandra Conrad, plans to attend Saint Francis University to major in physician assistant sciences. She was a distinguished honors student, a member of the cross country team for three years, a member of the National Honor Society, varsity club, yearbook staff and student council. She was class secretary. She is a volunteer at the Pregnancy Care Center and is employed by Forest Hills Fire Company, Cliff Street Tanning Salon and the National Ticket Company.

Cassidy Coveleski, of Shamokin, a daughter of Robert and Michelle Pancher, plans to attend Lycoming College to study chemistry. A distinguished honors student, she is a member of Bethel Union Chapel of West Cameron Township. Coveleski was president of interact club and Bible club, and was also a member of key club, the National Honor Society and math club. She is employed by Brewser's Sports Bar and Grill and Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Dylan Dombroski, of Coal Township, a son of Larry and Maria Dombroski, plans to attend Kutztown University of Pennsylvania to major in psychology and pre-medicine. He participated in varsity golf and varsity baseball. He was a member of student council, science club and the Indian Times.

Bethany Dressler, of Shamokin, a daughter of Dan and Jenn Dressler, plans to attend Luzerne County Community College to major in criminal justice. She is employed at Palmer's Diner.

Patrick Erickson, of Shamokin, a son of William and Cindy Erickson, plans to attend the University of Pittsburgh to study pharmacy. Erickson was the recipient of the AP Scholar Award, was a distinguished honors student and was a member of the National Honor Society. He lettered in football and track and field and received the Hillside Coaches Gentleman Scholar Athlete Award. He participated in Relay for Life and was a member of science club and student council and was vice president of Students Against Bullying. He is employed by the gift shop department at Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Tyler Ferrara, of Coal Township, a son of Anthony and Heather Ferrara, plans to attend Drexel University to study biology. Ferrara was a distinguished honors student. He lettered in baseball and swimming. He was involved in Envirothon, varsity club, chemistry club, was a member of the National Honor Society and was treasurer of FCS club.

Preston Ford, of Coal Township, a son of John and Marlene Ford, plans to attend Kutztown University as an undecided major. Ford lettered in varsity football for which he received the Ron Raker award and also lettered in varsity track. He was a member of chorale and choir and participated in the musicals. He is employed by Durdach Bros.

Brittany Hamilton, of Sunbury, a daughter of Tawnya and Anthony Hamilton, will attend Lincoln Technical Institute to major in automotive studies. She participated in Skills USA for Collision Repair.

Trey Kohan, of Coal Township, a son of Kristopher and Shannon Kohan, will attend King's College to study criminal justice. Kohan participated in football, basketball and track and field.

Kristin Kozar, of Coal Township, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Rebuck and the late Robert Kozar, will attend Lock Haven University to major in athletic training. She was a member of the National Honor Society. She participated in varsity soccer and varsity track and field. She was an 1864 Club member and was treasurer of the Students Against Bullying Club. She is employed by Masser's Chicken and Ribs.

Angelica Krieger, of Shamokin, a daughter of Maria Hendricks and John Krieger, will attend Bloomsburg University to major in computer forensics. She participated in girls soccer, football cheerleading and was captain of basketball cheerleading. She was a member of the high school orchestra and string ensemble. She is employed by the Elysburg Gun Club.

Ryan Lindenmuth, of Paxinos, a son of Kathleen James and Robert Lindenmuth, is undecided about his future plans. He was a member of the National Junior Honor Society and also participated in chorus.

Emily Manning, of Coal Township, a daughter of Paul and Barbara Manning, plans to work in the admissions office as she attends Bloomsburg University to major in physician assistant sciences. An honor roll student, she was a member of the National Honor Society. She was involved in choir and the musicals.

Hannah Martin, of Shamokin, a daughter of Keith and Karen Martin, plans to attend Kutztown University to study human kinetics. She was treasurer of the National Honor Society and received a $1,500 scholarship from the alumni association. She was captain of the girls varsity basketball team for two years and president of the senior high orchestra.

Kendra Maschuck, of Excelsior, a daughter of Cathy Bainbridge and Paul Maschuck, plans to attend Wilkes University to study biochemistry. She was involved in the community's Amazing Race. She was a member of yearbook, National Honor Society, key club, varsity club and student council, and was president of her class.

Corinthia Mayer, of Ranshaw, a daughter of Rosie and David Mayer, will attend Misericordia University to major in health care management. She was a member of the National Honor Society and participated in dual enrollment. She is employed by Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Shanda Mensch, of Shamokin, a daughter of Kyle and Stacy Smith, plans to attend Luzerne County Community College for one semester and then continue her education at Bloomsburg University to major in social work. She participated as a speaker at a convention for children and youth and helped with VIP.

Tom Nairns, of Shamokin, a son of Brenda and Robert Bland and Robert Nairns, plans to attend Bloomsburg University to major in environmental biology. He was a member of the National Honor Society. He participated in football, wrestling, soccer, indoor track, track and field and indoor soccer. He was also president of the 1864 Club. Nairns is employed by the games department of Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Joshua Papp, of Stonington, a son of Brenda Papp, plans to attend Misericordia University to study chemistry and pre-medicine. A distinguished honor roll student, he was a member of the National Honor Society. He is employed by Ghezzi's restaurant, Knoebels Crystal Pool and Weis Markets.

Lisa Raup, of Milton, a daughter of Cheryl and Robert Donlan and Kevin Raup, plans to attend Morgan Community College to study nursing. A member of the National Honor Society, she volunteered her time with the Special Olympics and ARC. She also participated in Upward Bound.

Eric Schultz, of Shamokin, a son of James and Debra Schultz, will attend Pennsylvania State University to study journalism. Schultz placed first in the alumni association scholarship exam and was ranked in the top five of his class. He participated in cross country, swimming and track and field. He was co-editor of the Indian Times and was dually enrolled in classes at Luzerne County Community College. He is employed by Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Thomas Smallets, of Malvern. a son of Robert and Sue Smallets, plans to work at Starbucks Coffee Company while he attends Pennsylvania State University to major in meteorology. He was a member of the National Honor Society, a distinguished honor roll student and was dually enrolled at Luzerne County Community College. He was a member of student council, the high school band, secretary of the audio visual club, a TV weatherman and vice president of his class.

Alexander Startzel, of Shamokin, a son of Michelle and Brian Startzel, will attend Penn State University main campus to double-major in criminal justice and orchestra. He was on the honor roll throughout his high school career. He was a National School Orchestra Award winner and a five-time letter winner in track and field and cross country. He volunteer for Upward Bound at Bloomsburg University and at Our Lady of Hope soup kitchen. He is employed at Wendy's.

Shane Stiely, of Shamokin, a son of Dawn and Troy Stiely, has enlisted in the Marines where he will become part of the military police and will work toward NCIS. He was awarded fourth place at Skills USA, won the outstanding senior award and was named competent on the NOCTI. He participated in soccer. He also volunteered at the PSPCA in Danville. He is employed by Burger King.

Brett Taylor, of Shamokin. a son of Howard and Elizabeth Taylor, is undecided about his future plans. He received the Jake "King" Cole memorial award and an honor award in computers. He participated in football, basketball and track. He is a CCD aide for sixth grade at Mother Cabrini parish, a basketball coach for the Mother Cabrini Comets and a baseball coach for Mother Cabrini T-ball. He is employed by Dunkin' Donuts.

Wesley Tillett, of Coal Township, a son of Wes and Lisa Tillet, plans to attend Bloomsburg University to major in secondary education. He was captain of varsity football and participated in wrestling. He was the PIAA state runner-up and 2010 High School Wrestling All-American. He volunteered his time being a referee at elementary wrestling tournaments and delivering food to local churches with the football team. He was vice president of Students Against Destructive Decisions and a member of student council. He is employed by Knoebels Crystal Pool.

Samantha Weikel, of Shamokin, a daughter of Norman Weikel and the late April Kline, plans to attend Misericordia University to major in medical imaging. An honor roll student, she participated in varsity soccer. She volunteered at the Salvation Army and assisted the Rotary Club at the Heritage Festival and with the Santa's Sleigh program. She is also the recording secretary for Stella D'Italia Lodge 1271. She was involved in interact club, art club and science club. She is employed by Ghezzi's restaurant and Knoebels Amusement Resort.

WILKES-BARRE - Kristen Karpinski, of Coal Township, graduated magna cum laude from Wilkes University on May 21 and received a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies concentrating on public relations and broadcast media. She also obtained minors in English, marketing and women's studies.

While at Wilkes, Karpinski served as an executive board member of Zebra Communications, the student-run PR agency, and as the assistant arts and entertainment editor of The Beacon, the student-run newspaper. She has held internships positions at BabyAge.com Inc. in Hanover Township as a marketing communications intern and at International Paper in Mount Carmel as an accounting, customer service and HR intern.

She currently serves as the Class of 2011 representative on the recent alumni committee at Wilkes University and holds a seat on the 2011-2012 alumni association board of directors. She is also a member of the Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society for excellence in communication studies at Wilkes University and the Public Relations Student Society of America.

Karpinski is the daughter of William and Lisa Karpinski, of Coal Township, and a granddaughter of Thomas and Sylvia Pappas, of Shamokin, and Theresa Snyder and William Karpinski Sr., both of Shamokin.

Karpinski is a member of Mother Cabrini Church and a 2007 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School.

LANCASTER - An local resident was among the 163 graduates of Lancaster Bible College who received degrees or certificates at the annual commencement exercises on May 13. Jordan Christine Rickert, of Coal Township, received a Master of Education in secondary school counseling, with high honors.

The ceremony was held in the Good Shepherd Chapel on the college campus at 901 Eden Road.

Lancaster Bible College is a premier academic institution offering a full range of collegiate programming from non-credit biblical enrichment courses, to undergraduate, master's and doctoral degree-programs.

Shamokin-Coal Township

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

Monday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; cards and puzzles.

Tuesday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; Family Medical blood pressure/blood sugar screening, 10 to 11 a.m.; bridge, 12:15 p.m.

Wednesday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; shopping at Lewisburg Farm Market, van leaves at 9 a.m., cost is $7.80; Wii bowling, 10 a.m.; pinochle and Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; puzzles and 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.

Tuesday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle, 12:30 p.m.; Unlucky 7s, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Wii bowling, 9 to 10 a.m.; Exercise HSIM, 11 to 11:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:30 a.m.; members birthday party followed by bingo, 1 p.m.

Thursday and Friday - Center closed for a parish function.

Kulpmont

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

Tuesday - Wii tournament banquet at Masser's, van leaves at 11 a.m., cost $2; Pinochle-cards, noon.

Wednesday - Wii in the morning; nickel bingo with cards to follow, 12:30 p.m.

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

Friday - Wii in the morning; shopping at KMart, van leaves center at 11 a.m., cost $2; nickel bingo with cards to follow, 12:30 p.m.

Centralia-Wilburton

Monday - Breakfast, 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.

Tuesday - First day of summer with a program on "25 Healthy Ways to lose weight and keep it off."

Wednesday - Tammy Stackhouse to play "Clean Bingo," 10:30 a.m. and open to the public.

Thursday - Center closed for a day trip to The Pioneer Tunnel in Ashland.

Friday - Center closed.

Elysburg

Monday - Pokeno, noon.

Tuesday - Healthy Steps, 9:30 a.m.; line dancing, 11 a.m.

Wednesday - PPL at the center with a program on Energy Efficiency Awareness, 11 a.m.; bingo, noon.

Thursday - Healthy Steps, 9:30 a.m.; line dancing, 11 a.m..

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.

Tuesday - Wii bowling, 8:30 to 11 a.m.; Chair Dancing through the Decades, 11 a.m.; shopping at Weis Markets, 12:30 p.m., $2 co-pay; evening bingo, 6 p.m.

Wednesday - Shopping and eating in downtown Danville, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; center Wii tournament, 9 to 11 a.m.

Thursday - Bean bag toss, 10:30 a.m.; Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.; evening bingo, 6 p.m.

Friday - Games on the Wii, 8:30 to 11 a.m.; nickel bingo, noon.

SUNBURY - Northumberland County Judge Charles Saylor describes county Commissioner Vinny Clausi's claim that he is taking $4 million from the working people "false and unfounded."

The judge's response came via a statement about Tuesday's decision by a state appeals court to uphold his ruling on July 2, 2010, to reduce the property tax assessment of the Weis Markets Distribution Center in Milton Industrial Park.

Clausi again for a story in Friday's edition criticized Saylor's decision.

In the statement e-mailed to The News-Item Friday morning, Saylor responded, "With the appellate court ruling affirming my decision in the Weis Markets tax assessment appeal, I am now ethically permitted to respond to the false and unfounded claims made by a county commissioner that the ruling somehow is taking $4 million from the working people."

Saylor, in describing what he called "the true facts," said the warehouse was originally assessed at $5,652,800 for 2010. Believing this amount was excessive, Weis appealed to the county board of assessment, which consists of the commissioners. The board increased the assessed value of the property to $6,522,630. Weis Markets then appealed this determination to the court.

"Upon due consideration of all the testimony presented, including the conflicting testimony of the experts presented by both parties, I determined the proper assessed value for that property was $5,409,536, varying from the original assessment made by the county by $243,264," Saylor said. "Of course, the actual tax liability to any municipality is much less, as it is a percentage of the assessed value."

He said Clausi "cannot recklessly impugn another's reputation and integrity by suggesting that there is any favoritism shown to any litigant, by a false distortion of the factual realities of the present case. Actually, the commissioner has wasted significant taxpayer dollars by pursuing a frivolous appeal, expending funds on experts and outside counsel, Timothy Bowers, who charged the county $150 per hour."

Saylor also took exception to a note in Friday's article about the decision that he wasn't available for comment. A News-Item reporter attempted to reach Saylor at the courthouse after normal business hours Thursday.

"Contrary to what is indicated in the article, I was available at all times at the courthouse for comment on Thursday, or even after hours at home," the judge said. "Somehow the commissioner is always reached to make his uninformed comments, but no one else is allowed an opportunity to respond."

Divorces

Wendy R. Laiso, 453 Front St., Northumberland, from Gennaro F. Laiso, 76 Dogwood Road, Drums. Married June 7, 1986.

Tina M. Slavinsky from Walter J. Slavinsky, both of 11 River Hill Drive, Danville. Married Nov. 15, 1978.

Kathleen Ann Gautsch from Maurice J. Gautsch, both of 209 Pheasant Run Road, Sunbury. Married May 19, 1973.

Frank Garn, 7330 State Route 54, Watsontown, from Karlena Garn, 1297 Pine Bark Lane, Mifflinburg. Married May 28, 2004.

Property transfers

George K. Schenawolf (estate) and Douglas L. Hatzel (executor) to Douglas L. Hatzel, property in Shamokin Township, $1.

Ryan Seroski to Shiela A. Bobet and Gabriel Ruiz, property in Coal Township, $2,000.

GMAC Mortgage LLC to Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, property in Watsontown Borough, $1.

Daniel B. Fetter to Jesse E. Moore and Tessa K. Moore, property in Sunbury, $79,900.

Earl P. Zartman and Carolyn A. Zartman to Allen R. King and Amanda J. King, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $200,000.

Michael D. Ludwig and Stella M. Ludwig to Corey Adam Collier, property in East Cameron Township, $500.

Willard E. Hoover Sr. (by agent), Lee Hover (agent) and Mary E. Hoover to Lee Hoover, property in Milton Borough, $1.

Lee Hoover and Jacque Hoover to Willard Hoover Jr., Lee Hoover, Grace Hubler, Carol Sheets, and William Hoover, property in Milton Borough, $1.

Herald D. Keiser Jr. and Mary C. Keiser to Keiser Irrevocable Grantor Trust, Christopher H. Keiser (trustee) and Mary Louise Deck (trustee), property in Milton Borough, $1.

Kelly I. Wells (AKA) and Kelly I. Long to Kelly I. Long, property in Sunbury, $1.

Lois E. Bordner, Kim R. Bordner and Ryan N. Bordner to Michael J. Carson and Rosanne K. Carson, property in Herndon Borough, $72,500.

Lynett L. Hoffman (AKA), Lynett L. Hunter, and Lynn A. Hunter Sr. to Joel A. Dresse, property in Sunbury, $62,400.

Bryan D. Cotner, Andrea M. Cotner (NKA) and Andrea L. Marks to Alison M. Rasper, property in Riverside Borough, $210,000.

Keith P. Schrode and Donna M. Schrode to Linda L. Breneisen, property in Milton Borough, $127,000.

Thomas Valeiko and Margaret Valeiko to Michael Anthony McKenna and Katie Ann Toolen, property in Mount Carmel Borough, $5,000.

Barry A. Stettler to John R. Simeone and Karen L. Simeone, property in Sunbury, $77,568.

Jennifer L. Grosser to Joseph Robert Hawkins, property in Mount Carmel Borough, $17,500.

Raynell E. Paul, Raynell E. Koppenhaver and Lloyd S. Koppenhaver to Raynell E. Koppenhaver and Lloyd S. Koppenhaver, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $1.

Fannie Mae (by agent), Federal National Mortgage Association (by agent) and Phelan Halligan & Schmieg LLP (agent) to Jacqueline N. Schulz, property in Watsontown Borough, $36,500.

Watsontown Foundry, Somerset Foundry and Manufacturing Company, Somerset Foundry and Machine Company, and Somerset Consolidaded Industries Inc, to James H. Collett, property in Watsontown Borough, $30,000.

Paul T. Brintzenhofe to Gary L. Britzenhofe and Linda K. Britzenhofe, property in West Chillisquaque Township, $1.

Virginia M. Hulsizer (estate) and Susan AKA Susan A. Bennage (individually and executrix) to Susan A. Bennage, property in East Chillisquaque Townsship and Turbot Township.

Nathan R. Wesner, Julie A. Wesner, Aaron C. Vatter, Megan M. Maerten, Megan M, Vatter, and Scott R. Maerten to Nathan R. Wesner and Julie A. Wesner, property in Watsontown Borough, $1.

Jon K. Hoey, Wendi S. Hoey, and Wendi S. Kauffman to Jon K. Hoey, property in Mount Carmel Borough, $1.

Michael A. Habowski and Megan M. Habowski to James A. Seker, property in Kulpmont Borough, $135,000.

Viola C. Pultynovich and Viola C. Duncavage to Dennis J. Feudale and Colene A. Feudale, property in Coal Township, $19,400.

Sarah B. Holsue to Donna M. Wilkinson, Ray J. Knapp and Sally A. Ross, property in Ralpho Township, $1.

Helen Kitt (estates), Peter J. Kitt (individually and executor), Karen E. Kitt, Patrick J. Kitt and Cruz C. Kitt to Patrick J. Kitt and Cruz C. Kitt, property in Kulpmont Borough, $1.

Michael R. Gildea and Roberta J. Brown to Douglas D. Hagerman and Randal B. Kessler, property in Turbot Township, $145,000.

Donna E. Milbrand to Beneficial Consumer Discount Company (DBA) and Beneficial Mortgage Company of Pennsylvania, property in Zerbe Township, $1.

Northumberland National Park to Ideal Associates LLC, property in Sunbury, $19,000.

John T. Magill Jr. and Gladys Y. Magill to Russell S. Cotner and Allison K. Cotner, property in Riverside Borough, $192,900.

William B. Porto to Michelle Donscheski, property in Shamokin, $1.

Ernest L. Dreibelbis (estate), Linda L. Gutkowski (admistratrix) and Cinda S. Crissinger (admistratrix) to Jeffrey D. Zartman and Amy L. Zartman, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $1.

John L. Habecker and Frances W. Habecker to Anna M. Swartz, property in Milton Borough, $1.

Milton Savings Bank to Melody Realty LLC, property in Watsontown Borough, $70,000.

Blanche M. AKA Blanche N. Ritchie (by agent) and Kay E. Ross to John T. Edwards and Cheryl A. Edwards, property in Rockefeller Township, $101,000.

Joan E. Latsha to Joan E. Latsha, property in Ralpho Township, $1.

Joan M. Stauffer, Michael A. Stauffer, Maryann E. Choyka and Gary P. Choyka to Dian Fitzpatrick, property in Mount Carmel Borough, $38,500.

Stephen R. Dannelley and Nikole C. Dannelley to Ruth G. Seal (estate), Linda L. Metzger (executrix) and Christine C. Young (executrix), property in Sunbury, $1.

Gerdau Ameristeel US Inc and Ameristell Corporation to Cole Properties, property in Milton Borough, $85,000.

Patricia Ann Dewalt to Randy E. James, property in Riverside Borough, $83,750. Justin M. Fern and Avery N. Fern to Charles M. V. Guttendorf and Lynn C. Pierson, property in Milton Borough, $127,000.

Sally Ann Ellis (estate) and Marlene L. Reitz (admistratrix) to Marlene L. Reitz and Gary Miller, property in Coal Township, $8,700.

MILTON - Two Rotarians from the Milton Rotary Club, Jeffrey Coup and Eric McDowell, will ride their bicycles for a total of 335 miles through eight counties visiting each of the central Pennsylvania towns that are home to thirty-four District 7370 Rotary clubs to raise funds for The Rotary Foundation's campaign to end polio worldwide.

The Rotary clubs of Danville, Bloomsburg and Berwick are joining forces to seek local cyclists and virtual riders to join Coup and McDowell as they ride from Danville to Berwick, on the third day of the four-day planned ride.

"We're hoping that experienced and novice bikers will join us to "Pedal Out Polio" and ride portions of the way or stay with us for the whole ride. Individuals who do not ride bikes can make a minimum donation of $25 as "virtual riders" to lend their support to our cause of eradicating polio from the face of the planet," said Coup, an avid cyclist who has served on the District 7370 PolioPlus Committee since its inception.

Riders will be required to wear helmets, sign an entry/waiver form, make a minimum $25 donation to the Rotary Foundation for each day they plan to ride, be responsible for any overnight lodging and for making return transportation arrangements back to their starting point. To ride with the tour, a separate registration form and donation will be required for each day. Riders may join the tour at any departure point and leave when they choose. Signatures of parents or guardians are required for participants under 16 years of age.

The ride will depart at 9 a.m. each day, beginning Saturday in Renovo, with the ride ending in Hughesville (71 miles); day two, Sunday, begins in Hughesville and ends in Danville (94 miles); day three, Monday, starts in Danville and ends in Ashland (67 miles); and day four, Tuesday, departure is from Ashland and ends in Tamaqua (91 miles).

For information about ride details including planned stops, route maps, and to download registration and donation forms, visit www.rotary7370.org.

Riders can also register on-site Monday prior to the 9 a.m. departure time in Danville, from Stetler Insurance, 1217 Bloom Road; in Bloomsburg, at the Rotary Pavilion, Bloomsburg Park before the 9:55 a.m. departure; and in Berwick, prior to the 11:05 a.m. departure from the Central Susquehanna Community Foundation, 725 W. Front St.

Local Rotary club contacts for additional information about the "Rotary Pedals Out Polio" event are, for Danville, club president Susanne Norton at 784-8174; for Bloomsburg, Mary Beth Shade at 784-3654; and for Berwick, club president Nick Pajovich at 752-5981.

Donations to help eradicate polio will also be accepted at on-site locations or by mail using the on-line form on the district website. All donations are fully tax deductible and should be made payable to "The Rotary Foundation" with PolioPlus on the memo line of the check. Any gift of $1,000 or more will receive a special recognition from The Rotary Foundation.

HARRISBURG - A Coal Township man took home $100,000 on an instant game during the month of May, according to the Pennsylvania Lottery's website.

Daniel Polyniak, of Coal Township, won the month's top price on the $5 scratch-off ticket "20X The Money." All total, lottery players took home $135,000 in the month of May.

The top numbers game winner in May was Gina Miriello, of Mount Carmel, winning $2,500 twice in the Big 4 evening drawings. Other winners, by town name, include:

Ashland

- Lois F. Blyler, $1,000, $100 Million Cash Extravaganza, $20 ticket.

- Richard Shoup, $1,000, $100 Million Cash Extravaganza, $20.

Catawissa

- Wanda E. Shadle, $1,000, $100 Million Cash Extravaganza, $20.

- Tyler S. Servose, $1,000, Money Money Money, $10.

Coal Township

- Daniel Polyniak, $100,000, 20X the Money, $5.

- Chad M. Brokenshire, $1,000, $100 Million Cash Extravaganza. $20.

- Eugene A. Pancoski, $1,000, $50,000 Birthday Cash, $5.

- Anna Garancheski, $1,000, Third Edition Goldbar Crossword, $3.

- Joan M. Dusick, $1,000, All That Glitters, $2.

- Debra A. Dusick, $1,000, Diamonds and 7s, $10.

- Frances Kuminski, $1,000, Million Dollar Mega Multiplier, $20.

- Wendy Woikel, $1,000, Money Money Money, $10.

Dalmatia

- Steve Troutman, 2 wins of $1,000, $100 Million Cash Extravaganza, $20 and 20X the Money, $5.

Danville

- Christine Freeman, $1,000, $250,000 A Year for Life, $10.

- Ardell Zeigenfuse, $1,000, Second Edition $100,000 Bingo, $5.

- Dawn A. Gill, $1,000, Diamonds and 7s, $10.

- Edward S. Kelly, $1,000, Money Money Money, $10.

- Robert Miller, $1,000, Pure Gold, $10.

Elysburg

- Robert P. Medon, $1,000, Platinum Cro$$word, $5.

- Jennifer Havay, $1,000, Pure Gold, $10.

Kulpmont

- Pauline M. Falton, $1,000, $1 Million Platinum Payout, $20.

- Michael J. Habowski, $1,000, Money Money Money, $10.

Herndon

- Sandra L. Murray, $1,000, Million Dollar Mega Multiplier, $20.

Mount Carmel

- Pamela L. Davis, $1,000, Electric 8s, $2.

- Eric D. Heslop, $1,000, Million Dollar Mega Multiplier, $20.

Paxinos

- Eric J. Boughner, $1,000, Million Dollar Cash Fever, $20.

Shamokin

- Jamie J. Miller, $1,000, 5X the Money, $1.

- Carl E. Miller, $1,000, Million Dollar Mega Multiplier, $20.

- Barbara A. Sager, $1,000, Pure Gold, $10.

Trevorton

- Timothy A. Derk, $1,000, Diamonds and 7s, $10.

SHAMOKIN - Steve Bartos believes the city's financial crisis is exaggerated, and he's spent much of his time in the first six weeks as the new city clerk addressing budget issues.

In fact, Bartos doesn't believe the city will have to cut jobs to balance its books, as some have suggested.

"We have to tighten our belts financially, but I don't believe we have to cut any jobs at this point," he said. "We are certainly living in bad economic times locally and nationally, but I believe the city's revenues will improve as the economy improves and puts us in better shape."

The city clerk job is Bartos' fourth in government, others having been at the federal, state and county levels. Despite his high-profile firings from the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) - over which he sued, and recently received encouraging news (see accompanying story) - and Northumberland County, as well as his fallout with now-retired state Rep. Robert E. Belfanti Jr., his expertise has been welcome at City Hall.

"I think Steve is doing a

great for us so far," said Mayor George Rozinskie, who strongly recommended Bartos for the clerk's position. "He's saved us money on our street lighting through an agreement with PPL Energy Plus Pool and has made sure all our bills are paid on time. I think his experience in grant writing will help the city tremendously."

Rozinskie said Bartos has met with a financial adviser from Lancaster in hopes of improving the city's financial situation.

"It's been going great so far," is how Bartos described the new job during an interview in his office Friday afternoon. "Mayor Rozinskie and council members have been working together to improve the overall financial situation of the city and quality of life for the citizens of the community, which is what government is all about."

Finding revenue

Bartos, 49, of Mount Carmel, was hired May 3 at an annual salary of $35,000, replacing Dave Kinder, who resigned after serving in the post since October 2008.

He said he's taking a different approach to analyzing the city's financial numbers.

"Only last year's numbers were used to project this year's numbers. I think we need to take a weighted average over the past five years to get a better overall picture of how the economy is performing and what the city revenues will look like," he said.

Bartos said he and Solicitor H. Robert Mattis have identified a way to increase revenue by increasing the television cable franchise fee from Service Electric from to 4 to 5 percent, which will generate between $25,000 and $30,000 more revenue per year for the city. Under the Pennsylvania Communications Act, a municipality is allowed to raise the fee to a maximum of 5 percent, he said.

He also expects the city to save approximately $20,000 in street lighting through the agreement with the energy pool, which offers municipalities better energy rates. Bartos said the city currently pays approximately $150,000 per year for street lights, but that would fall to approximately $130,000 by getting electricity at 6.923 cents per kilowatt hour versus the current 8.98.

"We are also working on other cost-saving and revenue-generating measures," he said. "I've been meeting with a financial adviser to repackage or refinance our annual debt service that totals $230,000 and lower our interest rate."

Filling properties

Bartos said Rozinskie and council members also hope to fill as many city-owned properties as possible. The clerk said the city is continuing to negotiate leases for two vacant properties at Mill Road Square in the 500 block of North Franklin Street.

"We hope to fill both properties by the fall," Bartos said.

He also said Bressi & Martin Real Estate is continuing to market a lease agreement for the basement area in the American Legion Building below the Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library that formerly housed the local senior action center.

"We are being very active in trying to attract potential renters in the city," Bartos said.

He is confident his grant writing experience and years working for the federal government will prove beneficial.

Enduring 'nonsense'

Bartos worked approximately eight years for the U.S. Department of Energy in Washington, D.C., before taking his job with DEP. He was praised by the state and locally for his efforts in starting the COALS (Cleanup Our Anthracite Land and Streams) and other environmental improvement efforts.

But Bartos was fired by DEP in 2007 for allegedly making a racial slur, an accusation he still claims is false and was brought on by his questioning of top-level DEP employees about department procedures and spending.

He took a job as county planning director in February 2008. In that role, he created and promoted FUTURES, an economic development project that is supposed to bring clean energy jobs to the region. Lack of progress on that front has earned public criticism for Bartos, but he maintains such projects will come to fruition in time.

The FUTURES project also spun off a new energy business incubator, Keystone Energy Technology Enterprise Center (KETEC), based in Mount Carmel. Bartos is present of the board of directors of the nonprofit group.

After less than a year in the county job, however, Bartos was fired for insubordination in January 2009. He defended his actions, saying the commissioners simply didn't want their thinking or actions challenged, and that led to tension that boiled over.

His next job was with Belfanti and the state Democratic caucus, for which he served as alternative/green energy coordinator for the Lower Anthracite Region. But against the retiring legislator's wishes, he ran for state representative to replace Belfanti in the 107th District, and the decision led to a nasty split and Bartos' eventual resignation.

Through all this, Bartos said he has made progress nonetheless.

"My family and I have endured despite all the negativism. We've been able to achieve a lot of things in spite of the nonsense said about me," he said. "I want to thank the people in Mount Carmel and Shamokin who have supported my family and me through some tough times. They didn't believe all the nonsense that was put out there."

Working hard

What Rozinskie especially likes is Bartos' effort to find revenue.

"I believe Steve is a great asset for the city," he said. "Despite his past working relationships with people and what some people have said about him, he has been working hard for the city since taking the position."

Council R. Craig Rhoades said that Bartos' hiring was a wise choice, and isn't worried at all about his past.

"We hope we can help this city move in a positive direction," said Rhoades. "I think his experience and contacts at the state level can help us do that."

Former council member Betsy Richardson, who is running again for council in November, said only time will tell how well Bartos does in his latest position.

"I think it's too early on to predict the positives and negatives, but Mr. Bartos deserves a chance to prove himself," she said.

(News-Item staff writer Mark Gilger Jr. contributed to this story.)

HARRISBURG - Shamokin City Clerk Steve Bartos, who was fired several years ago from the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for allegedly making a racial slur, received some good news Thursday that makes him more confident his three-year-old civil rights lawsuit filed against DEP will go to trial or be settled.

Yvette Kane, chief judge for the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg, ordered the court to adopt a report and recommendation made about two weeks ago by U.S. Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson that orders at least part of Bartos' suit to move forward.

Kane's order, which was issued Thursday, states that disputed issues of material fact preclude summary judgment on

Bartos' First Amendment retaliation claim against defendant Kenneth R. Reisinger, acting deputy secretary for waste, air and radiation management and former director of the Bureau of Waste Management, and Bartos' state whistle-blower statute claims against Reisinger and DEP.

The order grants summary judgment in favor of former DEP Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty and Patrick McConnell, who was DEP director of administration at the time Bartos was fired. The ruling dismisses McGinty and McConnell as defendants in the case.

The order grants summary judgment in favor of Reisinger on Bartos' procedural due process claims, racist behavior, civil rights conspiracy and fair labor standards.

Kane's order also states that the clerk of courts shall defer entering judgment until all claims have been adjudicated and remands the case to Carlson for further pre-trial management.

On Friday, Bartos said, "This is positive news for my case. DEP retaliated against me because of information I found out. They tried to shut me up or chill me. But I didn't back down. The judges ruled there are enough disputed facts in the case to continue the litigation. We will either settle the case or it will go to trial, where all the facts will come out."

Bartos said two witnesses in the case have lied and been fined for their actions.

In his report, Carlson said the suit presents an array of questions concerning the nature of a public employee's right to a government job and the limitations the First Amendment may place on state officials when discharging and disciplining workers.

The report stated Bartos became involved in two concurrent controversies at DEP in 2007. He was fired Dec. 14, 2007, as environmental group manager.

One of the controversies stemmed from his concern about $950,000 that was diverted to the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful program from competitive state grants for municipal recycling. At the time, Bartos was DEP's proxy on the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Board.

Bartos said he communicated his concerns to Reisinger and in a 360-page report to McGinty.

The other controversy stemmed from an allegation that Bartos made racial slurs about another DEP official, which he denied.

In his ruling, Carlson recommended McGinty and McDonnell be dismissed from the suit. The judge also recommended Reisinger not be granted immunity.

ELYSBURG - Knoebels Amusement Resort has seen its fair share of reunions, but one held Saturday was one of a different "breed." Cocker spaniels bred by Stonebroke Gardens Cockers and Quilts, of Westfield, gathered with their owners for the first reunion at the park.

"We're like a family. We're here for each other. It's something really special," said "Nanny" Janice Brooks, who delivered many of the cocker spaniels to their owners when they were old enough to leave their mothers.

Brooks first met the owner of Stonebroke Gardens Cockers and Quilts (SGC), Mary Breidenstein, more than 10 years ago when she was looking for a cocker spaniel, and the two became fast friends.

"Once you meet Mary, she hugs you right into the family," said Brooks. "She would do anything in the world for you and the dogs."

Breidenstein, now known as "Grandma" to all the cocker spaniels' owners, first started breeding the dogs 11 years ago after her friends fell in love with her first cocker spaniel and kept ask-

ing if she was planning to allow the dog to have puppies. More friends asked, and the house became full of little cocker spaniels. She soon became a reputable breeder known nationwide through the Internet.

"Most breeders, all they care about is the money," said Breidenstein. "Money doesn't get you one of my dogs. We have interviews and go through references to give them the loving home that we expect. They have to have the same ideals and treat them as children. They need to have good morals, and be fun."

Perfect homes

From the three "Firedogs," to Abby the future therapist and the blogging Mr. H,, all of the SGC dogs at the reunion seemed to be in their perfect homes.

"Every dog ended up in the right home," said Kim Grimm, who came from Madison, Wis., to attend the reunion. "There's a story here with every person and their dog."

Grimm, who travels the country as a truck driver, found Breidenstein and her cocker spaniels through the Internet after she lost her traveling companion, also a cocker spaniel, about a year ago. Today, Grimm travels the country with her new cocker spaniel, Mr. H,, and writes a blog as if it were her companion telling the story. Mr. H's blog is mrhreportsfromtheroad.blogspot.com.

"There's nothing like their company," said Grimm. "You can see the love in all the dogs' faces here. We traveled 770 miles, and it was worth every penny."

Grimm and Angie Lucas, of Hegins, helped organize the first reunion through their blogs and Facebook.

"It means a lot, getting everyone together like this," she said. "We're already planning for next year."

Lucas and her husband Doug were devastated when they had to put their dog to sleep in 2009, and couldn't decide if they should get another dog. The couple fell in love with Abby when they saw her picture on the SGC website.

Lucas also keeps a blog, maintaining Abbby's point of view as she trains to be a therapy dog at abbyspotlight.blogspot.com.

"She has the perfect personality and attitude," said Lucas. "We want to make a difference and give hope to people. If we can get one smile - it's a job well done."

The "Firedogs" are almost always at the fire house with their owner, Kevin Ernst, and his wife Marsha, of Port Allegany. Brinkley, Jasper and Matty go around to local schools during Fire Prevention Week, and occasionally go on fire calls.

"It's funny because we recognize everyone through their dogs on the blogs," said Kevin Ernst, who was talked into having a dog by Lucas and Grimm. His blog is thefiredogs.blogspot.com.

"It's the first time we're meeting everybody, but it's like they're family," said Marsha Ernst.

Extended family

Those at the reunion referred to themselves as an "extended family." From the moment they met Breidenstein, they became a part of the SBG family.

"It was like meeting someone you know for 20 years when you met her," said Grimm.

Since the cocker spaniels were brothers and sisters, Breidenstein became "Grandma," Brooks was their "Nanny," and the owners were aunts and uncles.

"They're our kids with fur," said Lucas.

"They're closer than kids. They don't ask for money," joked Grimm.

Last SCG puppy

Shortly after her husband suffered a heart attack in October, Breidenstein was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had no choice but to close the SGC.

"I'm so proud of how well they are all taken care of, that's all that I can ask," said Breidenstein. "Some people live their whole lives never knowing how much they've accomplished. I see how happy these people are and I know."

The last puppy from the SGC was Captain Sparky, and he recently joined Ernst and the other "Firedogs."

Although she was unable to attend the reunion because of her illness, she will be able to see her family through the blogs and Facebook that brought them all to Knoebels.

"I already sent her pictures of the dogs here," said Grimm Saturday. "I think they help her with her progress."

Ever hopeful, "Grandma" Breidenstein will continue to have the support of the family that she created.

"There's so much love and friendship, it makes me feel great," she said. "And to hear how close they've become, it's really humbling. It really is a heartwarming story."

NOXEN TWP. - Noxen has played host to a rattlesnake roundup since 1972, and on Saturday hunters brought 16 rattlers in to the fascination of area residents.

"It's by far our biggest fundraiser of the year," Noxen Fire Chief Lew

Hackling said regarding the event the fire company took over in 1986.

While the snake looking is free, the money is raised by food concessions, carnival rides, a flea market and a softball tourney.

But the fire company also uses the event to teach people about snakes.

"Rattlesnakes are not aggressive at all," Bill Wheeler announced to a Saturday afternoon crowd of around 100 visitors.

"That's why we're walking around here," he added as he pointed to the seven or eight snakes that curled along the fence line separating the snakes and their handlers from the onlookers.

Wheeler, president of the Keystone Reptile Club, took it upon himself today to answer questions posed by the young, the old and the slightly queasy.

Hackling said as many as 5,000 to 10,000 can be expected for the four-day fire carnival - if the weather holds out.

The last two days are reserved for bringing in snakes, and in addition to the rattlers brought in Saturday - with the largest a 53-incher tagged by Keith Mock of Noxen - Hackling said 22 other non-poisonous snakes were brought in between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday.

More will be brought in Sunday.

Wheeler's objective, he said, was to get people to understand that the rattlesnake, and its villainous counterpart, the copperhead, are simply not as dangerous as people thinks they are.

"They'll bite if you hurt them or if you surprise them," Wheeler said. "But the only snakes you hear about are the bad snakes."

In order to dispel some of the myths, Wheeler pointed out that it just isn't true that if you hear a rattle the snake is going to bite.

"I've been bitten five times and not once did they rattle first," he said.

But they are poisonous, he said. So it's important for people who hike through the woods to be on alert. That's particularly true for those hiking up mountains.

"Never stop paying attention," he told his audience. "Never go over a log before taking a gander at what's on the other side."

Mr. Wheeler also advised that any snake with a "big fat head" should be treated as if it were a poisonous snake.

He said that 36 hunters were involved in Saturday's roundup.

"But this isn't a 'kill em and grill em because somebody's going to get bit' kind of thing," he said. "We're pro snake."

The law requires that every snake caught must be returned to the precise location where it was caught by dusk Sunday evening.

The rattlesnake, he said, is a candidate for inclusion on the national-endangered species list.

Wheeler said that rattlesnake hunting season runs from the second week of June until July 31. Licenses for Pennsylvania residents cost $25. For out-of-state hunters, the price is $50.

Last year, there were only around 600 licenses issued, and only 80 of those rattlers were caught for consumption.

"The rest," he said, "were caught and released by sportsmen."

MOUNT CARMEL - Mount Carmel Area School District is participating in the 2011 Summer Food Services Program, which provides funds to provide meals for children from low income families. The organization operates a lunch program daily, Monday through Friday, starting today and ending July 29, with bus transportation provided to and from the site from all communities in the Mount Carmel Area School District.

Meals are available for all children eligible for the Summer Food Service Program free of charge. The meals will be available for all eligible children from the Mount Carmel Area School District from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Mount Carmel Area Elementary School.

Children who are members of food stamp households or Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF) assistance units are automatically eligible to receive free meal benefits at eligible program sites.

All eligible children are afforded equal access to the benefits of the Summer Food Service Program. In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (202) 72005964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

For additional information about the Summer Food Service Program, please contact the superintendent's office at (570) 339-1500 extension 3121.

Mosquito spraying in Kulpmont

KULPMONT - DEP will be spraying Kulpmont Borough for mosquitoes on Tuesday, June 21 starting at dusk and continuing for approximately two hours. Per DEP, no precautionary measures need to be taken.

Paving schedule announced

COAL TOWNSHIP - Doli Construction announced the following paving work schedule for Monday through Wednesday in Coal Township:

Monday

- Webster Street from Maple to the dead end.

- Meade Street from Maple to Wabash.

Tuesday

- Meade Street from Maple to Wabash.

- Tioga Street from Logan to Thomas.

Wednesday

- Tioga from Logan to Thomas.

- Thomas from Pulaski to Tioga.

Parking is restricted on both sides of the street.

Auxiliary to host movie in park

ATLAS - The Atlas Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary is hosting a Movie in the Park at 8:30 p.m. Saturday at the Atlas Fire Company Community Park. Everyone is welcome and asked to bring chairs or blankets.

Admission is free and refreshments will be available, including hot dogs, candy, drinks and popcorn. Rain date is July 9. Anyone wishing to make donations may call auxiliary President Betty Jean Bush at 339-2144.

TREVORTON - Zerbe Township Police Chief Robert John and township supervisors have been critical of Reading Anthracite for not posting "no trespassing" signs at Coal Hill, the former coal colliery property at the west end of the village where huge, steep culm piles attract off-road riders.

John has been taking it upon himself to alert ATV riders that they may be trespassing. For the past few weekends, he has been marking down license plates and informing riders in person that riding is not permitted at Coal Hill, but that's a tedious task, John said.

Reading Anthracite, Pottsville, sells permits for legal access to its coal lands in the township, but Coal Hill is supposed to be off-limits. Problem is, most riders - particularly those from out of the area - don't know that. Plus, the Coal Hill property is where many riders park their pickups and trailers, so they naturally expect they can ride there.

Cory Horne, of Reading, spent Sunday with his family riding their off-road vehicles in the area. Only his second time in the area, Horne wasn't aware of the riding systems or the permits, but said he would consider getting one.

"With all the flats around here, the area is very kid-friendly and a nice area to boot, the people are friendly here," Horne said. "There are not many places like that left."

Josh Musselman, of Philadelphia, traveled 2 1/2 hours to ride his dirt bike in the area with a friend of his, who has one of the Reading Anthracite permits.

"It's my third time here, and I like coming here," he said. "We see the signs about the local traffic only in that area, but with not a lot of places around to do this, the permit is worth it."

Coal Hill wasn't originally off-limits, but, after several residents complained about air quality issues because of dust, Reading Anthracite and the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) came to a verbal agreement to ban riding in that area, according to the supervisors.

That knowledge may spread by word of mouth and the Internet, but the township believes Reading Anthracite needs to do more to curtail riding at Coal Hill.

"It's a Catch-22," John said. "People are paying $125 a year for a permit to ride on Reading Anthracite property, and that (once) included Coal Hill."

Zerbe police do have authorization from Reading Anthracite to enforce trespassing laws, and written notices on the restrictions have appeared in local newspapers. Still, some have not gotten the message.

"We have a number of riders that come from out of the area, some permitted and some not," John said. "If they don't have the permit, they don't know that you can park there but not ride there."

While both riders interviewed did not know that Coal Hill was off-limits, it didn't appear to concern them, as they were safety-conscious.

"I'm not one for climbing and jumping when I ride," Musselman said. "I would much rather ride on the old coal roads, there in the flats."

Riding with youngsters, Horne talked about the difficulties riding in areas such as Coal Hill and Zerbe Township.

"The only problem with the coal region riding, is you have to worry about dropoffs. One time you could be here and everything is fine, the next time, there's a drop off that wasn't there before, you have to really plan the route," he said.

Coal Hill is not the only area that is a problem in Zerbe Township. Recently, township supervisors posted signage on Sunshine Road for local traffic only with no off-road vehicles allowed. However, Sunshine Road sits between two parcels of Reading Anthracite property where riding is permitted.

The township is asking for the public's help in getting the signage placed. Residents are asked to contact Reading Anthracite in a courteous manner, but to let their opinions be known. The contact person is Debbie Fehr at 622-5150.

Fehr was contacted Friday by The News-Item, but she said she could not discuss the issue and referred questions to company president Brian Rich, who she said was not available Friday.

Meanwhile, John said he would try to work through the situation.

"I want to do what's best for everyone," he said. "If I cite someone for trespassing, there's a good chance that it could be thrown out of court because there are no signs out there.

"We are not trying to get rid of the ATV riders," he added, "just to help them understand where they are allowed to ride and park."

BUTLER TOWNSHIP - A Shamokin man was apprehended Friday after he allegedly led police on a high-speed chase through Butler Township, Luzerne County, crashed his vehicle and fled on foot.

According to state police at Hazleton, troopers attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Shawn Latshaw, 26, after he traveled 63 m.p.h. in a 45 m.p.h. zone on Route 309 near St. Johns Road around 9 p.m. Friday. Police said Latshaw refused to stop and drove on Foothills Drive and Freedom Road at speeds ranging from 90 to 100 mph.

Just before Latshaw reached Freeland Mountain Road, police said he failed to negotiate a left turn and crashed into a guide cable. Police said he ran into the woods but was located 10 minutes later by officers. Assisting at the scene were other state police units and Freeland and Butler Township police.

Police said Latshaw fled because he had a suspended license and a charge of suspicion of driving under the influence of cocaine.

He will be charged with driving under the influence of a controlled substance, fleeing and attempting to elude police, reckless endangerment and numerous summary traffic violations, police said. He was committed to the Luzerne County prison in lieu of $3,000 straight cash bail.

Friday's incident was not the first time that Latshaw was involved in a chase with police. In July 2008, Latshaw led Mount Carmel Township Police on a chase after he and a relative stole scrap metal from the Kerris and Helfrick property in Diamondtown, and then led police in a case through the streets of Mount Carmel and then into a wooded area off of Seventh Street in the borough. He later pled guilty to a charge of loitering and prowling at night and sentenced to 3 to 12 months in prison.

MIFFLINVILLE -

Prime contractor New Enterprise Stone and Lime Co. Inc. is closing the eastbound driving and westbound passing lanes of Interstate 80 between Exits 241 (Lime Ridge/Berwick) and 242 (Mifflinville) from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Wednesday.

No lane closures are anticipated on Thursday and Friday, PennDOT reported.

BARNESVILLE - Conservation volunteer Dave McSurdy will present a free program, "Indians of Pennsylvania," at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at Locust Lake Amphitheater.

He'll present the artifacts and the story of Pennsylvania's original inhabitants. The artifacts are made of stone, bark and clay and include the skins of animals.

In case of rain, the program will be held in the pavilion. If there is lightning, it will be canceled.