FOUNTAIN SPRINGS - Just after Friday's scorching sun mercifully dipped behind the mountains west of North Schuylkill Junior-Senior High School, throwing shade on a thankfully cooled commencement crowd at Spartan Stadium, members of the school's Class of 2013 were handed diplomas.

The daytime's closing coincided nicely with the ends of the high school careers of the 146 seniors, now the newest alumni of North Schuylkill.

Gathered in the cafeteria where they lined up prior to commencement, the students' collective excitement gave way to cheers, hugs and smiles. They were dressed in caps and gowns - red for the women, blue for the men - while they marched together behind faculty and staff into the stadium and onto the football field; the graduation staple "Pomp and Circumstance" was performed by members of the school's band.

'Solve the puzzle'

Valedictorian Amanda Boyer spoke of the hard work put in by her classmates, and how the seeming insignificance pieces of varied classwork they had undertaken were important parts of their high school experience.

"Today is the day we celebrate our success," she said. "We reflect on growth not only academically, but personally, as well."

Anthony Marone, salutatorian, compared the high school experience to a Rubik's Cube. The puzzle is a difficult one when it's scrambled, much like his own experience as a seventh-grader coming to the junior-senior high school for the first time. It took some getting used to, some growing pains, some time to get the colors to begin to match up, but Marone found his way in North Schuylkill and eventually thrived.

He compared each year in school to the moments one experiences as they draw closer to solving the Rubik's Cube. Graduation night was it; the cube's colors were all aligned.

"Thanks to a 3-by-3-by-3 cube, we all have been taught a life lesson and we now face ourselves with yet another cube, whether it be college, trade school, the military or the work force. The only difference is we already know what we have to do to solve the puzzle," he said.

'Look forward'

This year's guest speaker was Chas Kutchinsky, a member of North Schuylkill's Class of 1973 who is now a television advertising and marketing executive and managing partner of iBOX Films.

Kutchinsky shared the advice of a friend and said simply that people must pursue their own ideas, set goals and meet them and feed off inspiration provided by personal creativity.

To the graduates, Kutchinsky said, "Always look forward. Keep moving forward. The only time to look back is to connect the dots."

Other speakers included Joshua Howard, National Honor Society president; Jordan Shinkus, student council president; Matthew Gownley, senior class president, and Brett Ennis, junior class president, as well as Dr. Andrew Smarkanic and Christian Temchatin, superintendent and high school principal, respectively.

Grads

The 2013 graduates of North Schuylkill Junior-Senior High School are Hayley Anderson, Dennis James Ansbach, Cody Lewis Antalosky, Marlet Antalosky, Elizabeth Antanavage, Amanda Marie Anthony, Brandon Tyler Artz, Demi Nicole Bainbridge, Ryan Michael Bainbridge, Christopher James Barrett, Marissa Lynn Beane, Jeffrey John Blanchek, Stephen Bloschichak, Kayla Jo Bolinsky, Amanda Elizabeth Boyer, Jordanne Noelle Brouse, Taylor Lynn Budwash, Jacqulyn Marie Burda, Tyler Michael Burns, Vanessa Danielle Burns, Alison Elizabeth Cantwell, Jenna Marie Caso, Michael John Conti, Maggie Renee Cooney, Kevin Robert Cope, Zackary William Coward, Tanner Paul Dean, Briona Lynn Deeter, Jon Donald Deeter, David Leonard Deeter Jr., Daniel Jacob Demansky, Daniel Louis Deromedi-Kimmel, Jason Lee Dijanni, Danielle Lea Detweiler, Brian Scott Dixon and Sarah Marie Dziczek.

Brooke Elizabeth Ennis, Courtney Ann Evans, Shannon Nicole Evans, Staci Lynn Fetterman, Michaela Ann Fetterolf, Steven Tyler Fey, Zachary John Filozof, Zachary Ryan Fritz, Matthew Gownley, Rachel Lynn Gozditis, Dominique Rose Grasso, Brandon Edward Green, Courtney Michele Gregas, Linda Maria Haller, Michael David Halsey, Chelsie Chiane Hartz, Nolan Robert Heiber, Blair Leigh Hetherington, Felicia Marie Holderman, Tasha Lynn Holmes, Amanda Marie Howard, Joshua Aaron Howard, Zachary Thomas Huber, Drew Thomas Hughes and Kayla Elizabeth Huss.

Ralph James Jacavage, Joseph Anthony Kankowski, Chloe Elizabeth Karlonis, Shayne Justin Kerner, Jeffery Vincent Klemer, Kayla Louise Klinger, Anthony Bryant Kodack, Emily Marlene Kramer, Anthony Kurdilla III, Arielle Elizabeth Lapinsky, Bethany Anne Lightstone, Nicole Marie Lloyd, Anthony Robert Marone, Ryan James Maurer, Joshua Andrew McCabe, Justin Ryan McCabe, Damian Michael McCormick, Brandon Michael McDemus, Kendra Leigh McElhenny, Cole Ryan McGinley, Daniel Joseph McSurdy, Christopher George Mekosh, Scarlett Anne Mendinsky, Damon Victor Meyer, Steven Joshua Molina, Ashley Nicole Morgan, Cody Raymond Morgans, Ethan Andrew Motsney, Kyle William O'Connor, Shannon Patricia O'Donnell, John Francis O'Keefe, Devanshi Bhartkumar Pandya, Michael Robert Parry, Marisa Rebekah Pennington, Tara Lynn Pennypacker, Mallorree Savilla Peters, Elliot John Phillips, Jason Mark Pinciotti, Richard Gary Powis, Casey Anne Prosick, Elizabeth Rose Reichwein, Dominique Nicole Reinoehl, Morgan Tereasa Reinoehl, Larissa Elizabeth Ressler, Tira Marie Rice, Alexis Kathleen Roberts, Kendra Rochelle Rockwell and Kyrsten Joanna Runkle.

Nicholas Sanayka, Randall John Sausser, Kristina Grace Schreck, Jeffrey Adam Shade, Jason Matthew Sharp, Justin David Sharp, Ryan Matthew Shatalsky, Brendan Patrick Shearn, Jordan Matthew Shinkus, Crystal Marie Sincavage, Ariel Virginia Smarowsky, Alyson Ann Smith, Jacklyn Marie Smolock, Allyson Walker Snyder, Brittany Ann Speidel, John Stefan Spotts, Sarah Elizabeth Stepanchick, William Donald Stokes III, James Joseph Swantek, Blaire Suzanne Thomas, David Edward Thomas III, William Joseph Thomas, Jessica Victoria Thompson, Jordan Thomas Darrell Troutman, Haley Jane Louise Torres, Josiah Levi Vasquez, Nicholas James Vivacqua, Patrick Michael Walsh, Adam Michael Warcola, David Joseph Weikel, Loni Jade Weikel, Eugene Donald Weitz, Hannah Lauren Whitecavage, Kimber Lynn Wolfgang, Katrina Nicole Wysochansky, Joshua Edward Yutko and Raymond Calderson Zamudio.North Schuylkill valedictorian Amanda Boyer.

COLUMBIA, S.C. - Aubrey Lynne Stover, a daughter of Denise Stover, of Shamokin, and Joel Stover, of Mifflinburg, has been accepted to The University of South Carolina for the counselor education and supervision Ph.D. program, where she was offered a full scholarship to serve as a graduate assistant.

She is a credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor (CASAC) and a licensed master social worker (LMSW) in New York.

After spending six years in the U.S. Army Reserves and three years in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard as an intelligence analyst, with a deployment to Iraq and an honorable discharge, Stover earned an associate degree in letters, arts and sciences at Penn State University. She later earned her bachelor's degrees in sociology and history with a minor in information systems-statistical analysis and a master's degree in education in teaching and curriculum with a certificate of advanced study in diversity and community relations from Penn State.

In 2012, she graduated from Syracuse University with a master's in social work and a certificate of advanced study in women and gender studies. While at Syracuse University, Aubrey earned the NASW-CNY Division's MSW Student of the Year Award, as well as various scholarships.

Stover serves as president of the Syracuse Chapter of Phi Mu women's fraternity and on the new member committee of the Junior League of Syracuse. She is also a member of the Preceptor Kappa Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi.

Recently, she was honored as one of Central New York's "Forty under 40" for her work in the substance abuse field. Stover works for Central New York Services Inc. as a therapist specializing in addictions with juveniles living in a residential facility.

She will conduct research on high school dropout rates and educational attainment of students in both rural and urban communities.

MOUNT CARMEL - Raises and contributions to health care costs are at the center of the ongoing teacher contract negotiations in the Mount Carmel Area School District.

The district's 109 teachers have been operating under a three-year contract that expired June 30, 2012 and, despite eight negotiating sessions and use of a state mediator, an impasse remained earlier this year.

With that, the teachers' union requested a Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board (PLRB) fact finder intervene, and a hearing was held May 9.

The fact finder's report was accepted by the district, but rejected by the Mount Carmel Area Education Association.

Report made public

Act 88 of 1992 provides for publication of the report within 10 days if one or both of the parties reject it, and the report was issued Thursday, providing 14 pages of detail about the ongoing negotiations.

Fact finder Rochelle K. Kaplan said the union proposes a step increase for those moving through the salary schedule and a stipend of $1,500 to those at the top of the salary schedule for the first year of the new contract, which would be the current school year that's about to end. In the second and third years, the union proposes a 2 percent increase to the salary, plus step increases.

"The association points out that the salaries of the teachers have been the lowest in the county for decades and the increases it proposes will raise the salaries to a more competitive range," Kaplan wrote.

The school district, meanwhile, proposes a freeze of salary and step increases for the first year. In the two subsequent years, it wants to keep the step movement freeze and allow a 2 percent increase to the salary scale each year.

Mediator's recommendation

Kaplan seems to fall in the middle in her recommendation: a step increase retroactive to Jan. 1, 2013, and a $1,500 stipend to the employees at the top step of the salary schedule for the 2012-13 school year. In the 2013-14 school year, she recommends a step increase plus a .5 percent on-scale increase and, for 2014-15, a step increase plus 1 percent on-scale increase.

Steps, numbering 1 through 20, increase teachers' salaries about $1,500 each year. The amount depends on whether the teacher has a bachelor or master's degree. Steps alone can take a salary from $30,215 in the first year to $59,912 by year 20 for a teacher holding a bachelor's degree, according to information in Kaplan's report.

Kaplan said it's possible to find middle ground.

"The uncertain times do not make arriving at a settlement any easier. That being said, there is no reason the parties cannot bridge whatever gaps still remain to reach an equitable resolution for all," Kaplan wrote. "Approving a new contract between the association and the school district is in the best interest of all the stakeholders - students, professional employees, school board members school administrators, parents and community members."

The district also proposed increasing the amount bargaining unit members contribute to the cost of health care premium from 1 percent of salary to 7 and 8 percent of the premium in the second and third years of the contract. The association, noting the district has saved $100,000 in costs merely from moving to a tiered plan, wants the 1 percent contribution to remain.

Kaplan recommended the district retain the current premium share at 1 percent of salary in the 2012-13 school year, but increase it to 5 percent in the second and third contract years.

The district has also proposed increasing the number of workdays from 185 to 186, while the union wants to make no change. Kaplan's recommendation is to "maintain the current language."

Other issues

There are eight other unresolved issues, including compensation for college credits; personal and emergency leave, and medical, dental and vision insurance payments upon retirement.

A vote to accept the report didn't necessarily constitute agreement or endorsement of the report, but rather represents an agreement to resolve the disputed issues by adopting the recommendations, Kaplan said.

She said she was impressed with the professionalism of the parties and their candor in presenting their positions before, during and after the fact-finding hearing.

Charges are not expected to be filed against the brother of former policeman Anthony J. Galla, who was killed by a U.S. Marshals Task Force Tuesday night in a hotel room in Upper Darby after shooting a man in the foot in Mount Carmel earlier in the day.

Upper Darby Police Superintendent Michael Chitwood said Friday he doesn't anticipate Galla's brother or his girlfriend will be charged. Chitwood, who did not identify either of the individuals with Galla at the Summit Hill Hotel when the shooting occurred, described them as "cooperative witnesses."

Police reported Galla's brother, who is in his 30s, attempted to convince his sibling to turn himself over to authorities and alerted Galla after spotting U.S. marshals setting up surveillance at the hotel. The 23-year-old girlfriend of Galla's brother hid inside a bathroom in the hotel room where the fugitive was shot, police said.

Galla, 31, of Cleona, was a former policeman who previously worked part time with Kulpmont, Mount Carmel, Mount Carmel Township and Butler Township (Schuylkill County) police departments.

An autopsy on Galla was conducted Friday afternoon by Dr. Frederic Hellman of the Delaware County Medical Examiner's Office. A report could not be obtained Friday.

Weapons in room, car

Chitwood said a bulletproof vest, 500 rounds of live ammunition, shotgun shells, ammunition for an AR-15 rifle, a .40-caliber Glock handgun that Galla reportedly pointed at law enforcement authorities before being shot, a pepper spray grenade, a mask, hatchets and knives were found inside the hotel room.

Another search warrant revealed an AR-15 rifle with a 30-round magazine fully loaded, four additional .30-caliber magazines and 150 rounds of ammunition were discovered in the trunk of a Honda Accent rented by Galla that was parked outside the hotel.

Chitwood believes U.S. Marshals Task Force members were justified in firing 52 shots at Galla because he pointed a loaded handgun at them and gave several indications of wanting to commit suicide or get into a shootout with police. Police previously reported Galla did not fire a shot.

Although he could not provide the number of shots that actually struck Galla, Chitwood said, "He was shot numerous times."

"It's important to remember that this was a federal case involving U.S. marshals whose job is to hunt down fugitives," Chitwood said. "This was a man charged with attempted murder who fired seven shots in a room trying to kill his ex-girlfriend's boyfriend in Mount Carmel. He had law enforcement and military experience and was known to be in possession of an AR-15 rifle, a .40-caliber Glock and two other firearms."

'Fired until safe'

Chitwood said three U.S. marshals and one state trooper armed with weapons approached the hotel room. He said three of them came through the door with their guns drawn and confronted Galla, while the fourth remained outside.

"They had a gun pointed at them," he said. "They weren't going to wait for him to shoot them. It took about five to 10 seconds to fire the rounds."

Asked if 52 shots were necessary, Chitwood replied, "They fired until they felt they were safe and the situation was resolved. I don't have a problem with how many shots they fired. If they fired 150 shots I wouldn't have a problem. They were in fear of their lives."

Chitwood said the situation would have been much worse if Galla had opened fire with the weapons he had at his disposal.

Although he doesn't believe the task force did anything wrong in the shooting, he said that determination will be made by the Delaware County District Attorney's Office.

Brother's account

Chitwood told the Delaware County Times that Galla's brother gave the following account of what happened:

"(Galla) came down and says, 'I want a room, I shot a guy,'" Chitwood recounted, adding that Galla's brother responded, "Turn yourself in."

"No," Galla said, according to Chitwood. "I'm not turning myself in. I don't want to go to jail."

Chitwood said they then had some food from McDonald's and Galla's brother continued to try to cajole him to turn himself into authorities.

To which, Galla, allegedly repeated, "I'm not going to prison."

Around 1 p.m., Galla got a room at the Summit Inn Hotel and shortly after 5 p.m., the U.S. Marshals Task Force was setting up surveillance and Galla's brother saw them, according to Chitwood.

"He then made a quick approach to the second floor in the hotel and as he was running toward Room 207, he was hollering in a loud voice, 'I'm not Anthony, I'm not Anthony,' alerting Anthony who was inside the room," Chitwood said, according to the Delaware County Times story.

"As (the task force members) kicked the door in inside the hotel room, by the bed, by the window, is Galla pointing a fully loaded, .40-caliber Glock at them," Chitwood said. "The marshals then fired."

"He was ready to go," Chitwood said. "He was locked and loaded."

Started in Mount Carmel

The tragic tale started at 12:55 a.m. Tuesday at the home of Marlene Lloyd, 244 S. Walnut St., on the east side of Mount Carmel. Borough police said Galla knew the location of a hidden key when he left himself into the house, where he once resided with Lloyd, and woke her by shining a flashlight in her face.

Galla and Lloyd went into the hallway, but when her new boyfriend, Daniel McNally, 48, of Hegins, went to check on them, he said Galla pointed a semi-automatic handgun at him.

McNally retreated, saying 'I will leave' several times and got on the floor beside the bed," police wrote in a criminal complaint they filed that day against Galla.

At that point, McNally said Galla entered the room, stood approximately six feet from him and fired one round, missing him. Police said Galla paused and looked at Lloyd before turning his attention back to McNally. He fired the gun again several times, hitting him once in the foot. Galla left the residence when Lloyd went to check on McNally, police said.

McNally, who was later transported to Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, for treatment, was upgraded from serious condition Tuesday to fair condition on Wednesday. He has since been discharged, a nursing supervisor said Friday.

MANDATA - The valedictorian of Line Mountain's Class of 2013 took a page from pop culture, and quantum mechanics, while preparing his speech for Friday's graduation ceremony.

Valedictorian and class president Kyle Mace compared the futures of the 86 members of his class to Schrodinger's cat, a thought experiment proposed by Austrian physicist Erwin Schrodinger in 1935.

The concept was a central theme of an episode of "Big Bang Theory" in 2008.

In this theoretical experiment to explain quantum mechanics, the scientist said it would be impossible to discern if a cat in a box with poison is alive or dead until the box is opened; therefore, the cat could be considered both alive and dead at the same time.

Mace said his classmates' choices will provide the same paradox.

"The decisions you are faced with may have an equal chance of being both good and bad - dead and alive - but it's only by opening the box that the real answer presents itself," Mace said.

The graduating seniors may be able to make a difference in the world, but they will never know until they open the box and try, he said.

"As we go our separate ways in the future, make sure that when the time comes, you like what you see when you open the box," Mace said.

'New renovations class'

Mace noted the class of 2013 entered the district through four elementary schools - Trevorton, Leck Kill, Dalmatia and West Cameron Township - but Friday night, those schools were consolidated.

Less than a year after they started kindergarten, West Cameron closed.

Renovations and additions were a major part of the last decade, and Leck Kill and Dalmatia elementary schools closed their doors for the last time earlier this month.

High School Principal Jeffrey Roadcap called them the "new renovation class."

"You know what change means," Roadcap told the class.

The principal advised the class to treat people like people, to use education to educate themselves and to never forget where they came from. He urged them to humble themselves, involve themselves with their passions, look for ways to help others and to always mind their own thoughts.

Maj. Jeremy L. Peiffer of the U.S. Army Reserves, who was the special guest speaker, challenged the class to make good decisions.

No matter what they were - from an athlete to a brainiac - he said their fight is just beginning.

"This is the first day of your destiny. Step out of here as an informed American," he said.

The processional, national anthem, alma mater and recessional were performed by the high school concert band. Salutatorian Katia Carl introduced Peiffer.

The class presentation and tassel ceremony was conducted by Roadcap and the class acceptance was conducted by Superintendent Dave Campbell.

School board president Troy Laudenslager presented the diplomas.

Class officers are Mace, president; Carl Pollard, vice president; Savannah Copson, historian; Abbie Shervinskie, secretary, and Colton Bowman, treasurer.

Graduates

The members of the Class of 2013 are Jesse Lee Anderson, Brittany Nicole Arbogast, Michael Edward Benner Jr., Colton Matthew Bowman, Kaitlyn Rose Boyer, William Raymond Breinich III, Walter James Britton III, Dylan Joseph Brosius, Dylan Buddock, Paul Andrew Byers, Katia Marie Carl, Rebecca Rose Carta, Robert Allen Cook II, Savannah Lee Copson, Shawn Aaron DeLong, Kelsey Megan Derrick, Kevin Shawn Dewald Jr., Dylon Lee Failor, Amanda Mae Feger, Danielle Desiree Flynn, Brandon Leigh Foulds and Dalton Scott Frits.

Heidi Ann Gessner, William Charles Grove, Erika Christine Hauck, Britton Scott Heim, Katrina Ann Heim, Charles Arthur Hoffman, Lucas Richard Hoffman, Coltin Robert Hunsberger, Joseph Michael Katalinas, Zachery Albert Kemberling, Tia Briann Kissinger, Ciera Nicole Lahr, Garret Daniel Lahr, Sarah Elizabeth Lahr, Seth Daniel Lansberry, Kimberly Marie Latsha, Dani Alan Lebo Jr., Alexis Marie Lee, Cally Christine Lenig, Alyssa Lynn Letterman, Nathan Asher Levan, Kyle Raymond Lippincott, Jade Ashlee London, James Earl Long, Michael Steven Lorenz and Brandon Quinton Lee Lucas.

Kyle Scott Mace, Kevin Michael Madison, Katherine Alma Mako, Brooklyn Anne Marquette-Hulsizer, Casey Lee Masser, Dillan Lee Michael, Shyanne Elizabeth Minnier, Codi John Morris, Tyler Ray Moyer, Ryan Matthew Paczkoskie, Kerri Ann Pickett, Carl William Pollard, Jeremy Alan Renn, Cole William I. Rickert, Kenneth Daniel Rothermel Jr., Dustin Matthew Sandefer, Samantha Lynn Schlegel, Nicholas Andrew Seybert, Jamie Lyn Shaffer, Ryan Mark Shaffer, Steven Kenneth Shepperson, Abbie Carol Shervinskie, Erik James Smeltz, Austin Allen Snyder, Cody Lamar Snyder, Olivia Janae Souder, Brittany Lynn Straub, Nicholas Frank Strohecker, Breanna Elaine Stuck, MaKenzie Chyanne NikoleTran, Autumn Rose Wehry, Joseph Scott Weiler, Courtney Lei Whary, Cody Lee Whitcomb, Tysha Kyana Wilhour, Victoria Lynn Wolfe, James Austin Yocum and Kyle Robert Zimmerman.

Illegal immigration discussion planned

ELYSBURG - How to respond to illegal immigration will be discussed at Lifetree Cafe from 7 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Elysburg Presbyterian Church, 320 W. Valley Ave.

The program, titled "Kids Without a Country: An Illegal Immigrant's Story," features the filmed story of Reyna Grande, who crossed the border with her family illegally when she was 9 years old. The Lifetree program explores the challenges facing immigration reform, including issues surrounding children of illegal immigrants.

Grande, now a teacher and author, describes the border crossing and her subsequent life as an illegal immigrant. She's the author of "The Distance Between Us." Admission to the 60-minute event is free. Snacks and beverages are available.

Lifetree Cafe is a place where people gather for conversation about life and faith in a casual coffeehouse-type setting. For more information, call 672-2873 or go to www.facebook.com/LifetreeCafeAtEPC.

Bridge projects rescheduled

MONTOURSVILLE - Due to the weather forecast, each of the three bridge-deck preservation projects planned by PennDOT will be moved back one day next week.

The Route 901 project is now scheduled for Tuesday.

The Shamrock Road project is now scheduled for Wednesday.

The Route 147 project is now set for Thursday and Friday.

Soroptimist meeting set

NORTHUMBERLAND - The Soroptimist International Club of the Snyder, Union and Northumberland Counties, Inc. will hold it's regular monthly dinner meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Front Street Station.

Tammy Clinger will be providing a presentation about the By Grace Homeless Shelter in Middleburg. Additionally, the SUN Soroptimists will hold their annual new member induction ceremony.

The SUN Soroptimist Club is an international volunteer service organization for business and professional women who work to improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world. We encourage anyone who is interested in volunteering and becoming a member to contact any club member or call Diane Savidge at 837-2532.

WILLIAMSPORT - Last month's recommendation by a federal judge to continue a lawsuit against Northumberland County Commissioners Vinny Clausi and Stephen Bridy and the county on a Sunshine Law violation has been adopted by United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann.

On May 6, Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson issued a 20-page opinion that denied a motion by Clausi and Bridy to dismiss an amended complaint by plaintiff David Kaleta, of Shamokin, who filed a lawsuit over issues related to the county's Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA).

In their motion to dismiss, the county's attorneys said that although a state court has already found that Kaleta is likely to prevail on the merits of his claims, the amended complaint "nevertheless actually fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted."

Carlson disagreed and found that Kaleta has adequately pleaded claims for relief under both the Sunshine Act and the First Amendment.

In an order issued May 24, Brann said the defendants' motion for summary judgment does not comply with Local Rule 56.1, which requires a "separate, short and concise statement of the material facts, in numbered paragraphs, as to which moving party contends there is no genuine issue to be tried."

Banned from land

Kaleta, who has been critical of the county plans to build the 6,500-acre recreational area on forest and abandoned coal lands in Coal, East Cameron, Mount Carmel, West Cameron and Zerbe townships, was informed in a Sept. 10 letter from county planning director Pat Mack that his request to use the land for hunting and walking his dog had been denied after consideration by "two of three members of the board of commissioners," later determined to be Bridy and Clausi.

Kaleta, claiming the discussion to deny his permit is a violation of the Sunshine Act, won a preliminary injunction in Northumberland County Court.

With Kaleta alleging a violation of his First Amendment rights, the case was moved to federal court.

Last month, Carlson denied a motion by Clausi and Bridy that sought to have Kaleta's attorneys, Kymberley Best and Timothy Bowers, disqualified because they dealt with administration and legal issues related to the AOAA during their time as Northumberland County employees. Carlson said Best and Bowers' prior representation of the county had little to do with issues in Kaleta's suit.

The judge also threw out a protective order asked for by Kaleta to keep audio recordings of past Northumberland County commissioners' meetings, after the plaintiff had been directed to file a brief in support of his motion by April 18. Since the time to file the court documents passed, Carlson withdrew and dismissed the motion.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The owner of a Rottweiler that bit a Kulpmont man last week was committed to Northumberland County Prison Thursday morning after turning herself over to authorities. She later posted bail.

Cindy Santore, 45, of 217 Third St., Ranshaw, was arraigned by video by Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III on a misdemeanor of recklessly endangering another person and a summary of allowing her dog to run at large, which violates a township ordinance.

Gembic set bail at $10,000 cash, which Santore initially was unable to post. After being committed to the county jail, Santore posted bail Thursday night and was released.

She is scheduled to face a preliminary hearing on the charges at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday before Gembic.

Coal Township Police Chief William Carpenter, who filed the charges, said Santore turned herself in at Coal Township Police Station. He said Santore told him that her Rottweiler named Junior was quarantined since biting Joseph Drost, 23, of 1025 Chestnut St., Kulpmont, in the forehead at about 11:45 a.m. May 24 on Route 61 near Palmer's Diner. Drost suffered two deep puncture wounds.

Carpenter said he doesn't know the whereabouts of the Rottweiler and referred questions about the status of the canine to state dog enforcement officer Allen Fegley, who couldn't be reached for comment Friday.

Helping dog

Carpenter previously said the attack occurred after Drost stopped his Jeep in an attempt to prevent the canine and another Rottweiler from running onto the busy highway.

Santore's daughter, Cynthia Hippenstiel, 22, of 211 Third St., Ranshaw, who owns the other Rottweiler found along Route 61, was cited for allowing her dog to run loose through the east end of the township at 10:44 a.m. May 24. She was cited for the same offense Nov. 5.

In his criminal complaint filed against Santore, Carpenter said both women have been warned multiple times about their dogs' aggressive behavior, which poses a threat to residents. But the chief said Santore and Hippenstiel have ignored the warnings.

He said the dogs have attacked other canines and one of the Rottweilers previously bit a Ranshaw man and hung onto him while the man attempted to get inside his home. That victim refused to press charges against Santore or Hippenstiel, Carpenter said.

SUNBURY - The Sunbury Fire Department is conducting its sixth annual Mustang Raffle to raise money for the department.

This year's raffle continues with the Mustang Club of America styling for the car, a 2014 model that comes in "Gotta-Have-It-Green" metallic tri-coat and charcoal black leather interior.

Tickets are $100 each, and only 500 tickets will be sold. There were 157 tickets left as of Wednesday.

Checks or money orders can be sent to Sunbury Firemen's Fair, c/o Daniel Saxton, treasurer, 1003 Edison Ave., Sunbury 17801. Call 274-5010 or e-mail SFDMustangRaffle@aol.com for more information. Tickets and receipt will be mailed via first-class mail. Be sure to include full name, complete address, telephone number and, where applicable, an e-mail address.

Previous winners have come from Scranton, Shamokin, East Stroudsburg, Hawley and Sunbury.

The premium coupe Mustang has a 305-horsepower VC, an automatic transmission. Features include remote engine start, heated front seats, heated side-view mirrors with "Pony" projection lights, Shaker 500-watt audio and 18-inch sterling gray metallic-painted aluminum wheels.

Child found

SHAMOKIN - A 7-year-old girl who wandered from her home at 236 S. Sixth St. on Friday was found unharmed in the city's Fifth Ward about 30 minutes after she was reported missing.

Patrolman Mark Costa found Mary Reinard with a group of other children near Pearl and Spruce streets at 7:52 p.m. Police say the child tried to duck behind a garbage can and hide when she saw the patrol vehicle, but then stood upright and waved as the vehicle moved closer.

She told the officer she left home to walk to Sunbury and meet with her "Mammie," according to police.

The child was returned to her mother, Angela Reinard, and promised not to run away again.

Reinard first reported her daughter missing at 7:24 p.m., some 20 minutes after the child went outdoors to play.

Assisting Costa and Cpl. Bryan Primerano were officers from Coal Township and Ralpho Township police departments, Shamokin Fire Bureau and its fire chiefs and concerned neighbors.

Chainsaw stolen

RUSHTOWN - William Robert Meng, 75, of Danville, reported someone stole a red 16-inch Husqvarna chainsaw bar bearing serial No. 20043200839, Model No. 141 LE, and a "Crock Pot" pottery jug from a property at 300 Rushtown Road in Rush Township sometime between 8 p.m. May 1 and 11 a.m. Saturday.

Anyone with information is asked to call Trooper Daniel J. Wilk of state police at Stonington at 286-5601.

BEAR GAP - Joel and Sarah Knoebel want the 57 residents who have appealed their plan to build two large chicken barns in Cleveland Township to post a $151,100 bond, money they'd receive if Columbia County Court finds the appeal frivolous.

They have delayed the zoning process, and that has cost the Knoebels income and the ability to expand their agricultural business, the couple argues in court documents.

A hearing to determine whether the bond will be included in a zoning appeal hearing will be held at 2:30 p.m. Monday in courtroom 2 of the county courthouse.

The Knoebels, of 110 Center School Road, are the owners of Cleveland Pork, a five-year-old pork producing operation contracted with Country View Family

Farms, Middletown.

They said in a court filing that residents are thwarting their legitimate and lawful agricultural business use of the property, which is in a R2 Residential Medium Density District zone, and ultimately hindering the process of building the chicken houses. The land in question is northeast of Bear Gap, a few miles from Route 54.

The neighbors' appeal is frivolous, because agriculture and horticulture are permitted uses within the R2 district, the Knoebels' court filing says.

They come to the six-figure total by citing that poultry barns of similar size and types earn approximately $2,600 a week, meaning the Knoebels could potentially lose $67,600 over a 26-week appeal period. They will also lose $15,000 they could earn from selling chicken manure as fertilizer, and estimate they'll pay $32,000 in attorney fees and lose $5,000 through miscellaneous and incidental costs, including lost interest.

It is also reasonable to believe that building costs will increase 7 percent since the barns were not constructed in spring, adding $31,500, they've told the court.

The Knoebels wants the bond as a pre-condition to continuing the zoning appeal. If the zoning appeal is denied by the courts, it would become immediately payable to them.

Joel Knoebel did not return a request for additional comment Friday.

'We're stuck'

Residents have been pushing for the Cleveland Township supervisors to pass an amendment to the zoning ordinance that would limit large-scale animal farms in a residential district. It would ban against a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) from exceeding 100 livestock animals within 500 yards of a residential dwelling in the R2 district.

Johanna Lucid, of 24 Wynn School Road, who has been leading the charge with her husband, Tom, to prevent any CAFOs in the district, said they would be in a bind if the Knoebels win and a large-scale animal facility is built near their house. They'd want to sell the home, but would that work, she asks.

"We won't be able to sell it; the value of our home will go down," she said Friday. "We're retired. We don't have the benefit of being able to recoup our losses. We're stuck."

The battle began in April 2012 when the Knoebels spread manure on farmland surrounding Wynn School, Middle and Polk roads. Residents complained about the "overwhelming" stench and expressed concerns about their health.

In July, Knoebel applied for permits to construct two 43-by-500-foot poultry barns along Wynn School Road on part of a 76-acre tract of land, and it was appealed by the Lucids. In October, Knoebel was denied permits by the Cleveland Township Zoning Hearing Board for the barns because the proposed operation violated an existing township ordinance that states buildings housing livestock, including dog kennels, poultry or mushroom culture, shall be no closer than 100 feet to any public right of way or 300 feet from a residential district or existing residential property owned by others than the applicant.

Once Knoebel amended his plans, the permits were issued in February, but the 57 residents appealed in March.

They said building such a large-scale farming operation near residential areas would be detrimental to their health, quality of life and property values.

Thirty-nine individuals live around the property where Knoebel has proposed creating the CAFO, while an additional 54 residents live within a half-mile of the property. Nineteen other residents live within a mile of the property.

The Lucids, who are members of Concerned Residents Against Factor Farms (CRAFF), said there are no CAFOs in the state located in what is zoned a residential area.

The Knoebels already operate two CAFOs on their 600 acres of property in the region: a 4,500-pig farm located on their home property, approximately three miles east of the R2 District, which is operated under Cleveland Pork; and a 2,200-pig farm located in Irish Valley, operated under the name RK Farms Inc.

Joseph C. Michetti, Trevorton, is representing the residents while Lloyd Hampton, Ashland, is representing the Knoebels.

In addition to the Lucids, other defendants are William and Barbara Freeman, of 74 Wynn School Road; John and Barbara Colella, of 82 Wynn School Road; John and Colleen Brent, of 34 Wynn School Road; Adam and Michelle McBride, of 38 Wynn School Road; Mike and Patricia Bressi, of 70 Wynn School Road; John and Mary Ann Lynn, of 155 Wynn School Road; Kimber Weise, of 150 Wynn School Road; Nancy Weise, of 150 Wynn School Road; Tony and Kathryn Matulewicz, of 176 Monroe Drive; Daniel and Linda Anderson, of 124 Wynn School Road; Steve and Alice Matukaitis, of 54 Wynn School Road; Brian and Amanda Evans, of 980a Middle Road; Jim and Linda Edwards, of 91 Jackson Road; Sue Parks, of 541 Jackson Road; John and Michelle Schwartz, of 147 Wynn School Road; Virginia Dall, of 78 Ridge Acres Road; David and Christine Yordy, of 121 Ridge Acres Road; Francis and Gloria Gerrity, of 113 Ridge Acres Road; Bill and Jodi Henry, of 105 Ridge Acres Road; Rhoda Saldukas, of 105 Ridge Acres Road; Joseph and Ann Marie Leavens, of 55 Ridge Acres Road; Dennis Sosh, of 95 Ridge Acres Road; Robert Smith, of 95 Ridge Acres Road; Victoria Homicz, of 95 Ridge Acres Road; Scott Weaver, of 112 Monroe Drive; Sherry Stankiewicz, of 63 Manor Drive; Mark and Marianne Zenyuch, of 89 Monroe Drive; John and Sherry Karpinski, of 81 Monroe Drive; Christine Smink, of 44 Polk Lane; Doreen Miller, of 44 Polk Lane; James and Jacquelyn Ervin, of 52 Polk Lane; Leroy and Grace Gish, of 35 Polk Lane; Betty Minnick, of 35 Polk Lane; and David and Melanie Karpinski, of 81 Monroe Drive.

Marriage licenses

Fard Karriem to Melinda J. Hassinger, both of 930 Chestnut St., P.O. Box 1, Shamokin. Issued Friday.

Randy Allen Swavely, 819 W. Sixth St., Mount Carmel, to Diane E. Sala, 312 W. Fourth St., Mount Carmel. Issued Friday.

Brent J. Tharp to Sarah E. Shuder, both of 281 Archery Club Road, Sunbury. To be issued Monday.

Divorces

Maria Del Pilar Gonzalez, 202 W. Snyder St., Selinsgrove, from Jose Manuel Arango, P.O. Box 019001, Atwater, Calif. Married July 6, 2001.

Brian J. Burke, 1130 Tharp St., Coal Township, from Christine L. Burke, 33 Spring St., Tremont. Married Aug. 31, 2002.

Hannah Elisabeth Derr, 119 Chestnut St., Sunbury, from Richardson Rosius, New Jersey. Married Oct. 5, 2002.

Patricia M. Faust, 562 Locust St., Northumberland, from Michael B. Faust, 23 Sun Valley Drive, Sunbury. Married April 6, 2002.

John B. Harris Jr., 2794 Ridge Road, Northumberland, from Kimberly E. Harris, 501 Water St., Northumberland. Married Sept. 9, 2000.

Joan Marie Herrold, 1483 Hosta Road, Paxinos, from Jeffrey Herrold, 809 N. Sixth St., Sunbury. Married Sept. 14, 1998.

Barbara A. Hause, 111 Walnut St., Milton, from Richard E. Hause, 347 Wall St., Milton. Married Dec. 2, 1972.

Carol A. Kerstetter from Duane K. Kerstetter, both of 357 Clemens Drive, Milton. Married Dec. 1, 1986.

Mindy L. Klinger, 530 Radel Road, Dalmatia, from Chris C. Klinger, 268 River Road, Dalmatia. Married June 2, 2007.

Elaine Klingler, 511 Broadway Estates, Turbotville, from Jackson Klingler, 1435 Church Road, Watsontown. Married Feb. 27, 1988.

Roger H. Long II, 179 Penn Ave., Elysburg, from Nina R. Wright, 728 Oak St., Kulpmont. Married Feb. 14, 2001.

Holly Noel Lynott from Thomas Joseph Lynott, both of 340 W. Seventh St., Mount Carmel. Married Sept. 21, 1989.

John Motyka, 619 Scott St., Kulpmont, from Amanda Motyka, 403 Pine Swamp Road, Catawissa. Married Aug. 20, 2011.

Marilyn M. Kline-Perna, 708 Priestly Townhouse Court, Northumberland, from Daniel M. Perna, 493 King St., Northumberland. Married May 31, 1991.

Marcus A. Porter, 3535 State Route 890, Sunbury, from Angela A. Porter, 326 Chillisquaque St., Montandon. Married Sept. 17, 1994.

Ronda M. Seger, 921 W. Mulberry St., Coal Township, from Job E. Seger Jr., 934 W. Willow St., Coal Township. Married May 4, 1990.

John D. Seiler Jr., 1236 W. Walnut St., Coal Township, from Susan D. Seiler, 1238 W. Walnut St., Coal Township. Married July 29, 2000.

Bethel Shambach, 126 1/2 N. Sixth St., Sunbury, from William Shambach, 304 Orange St., Northumberland. Married Nov. 20, 1970.

Jennifer L. Smith, 66 Orange St., Northumberland, from Kenneth L. Smith, 108 Queen St., Northumberland. Married June 9, 1990.

Stanley A. Stefanski, 1332 Fulton St., Harrisburg, from Joanne Stefanski, 315 E. Saylor St., Atlas. Married July 22, 1972.

Property transfers

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Hector Sola to Debra and Thomas Heim, two properties in Shamokin, $200 each.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Franklin I. and Joy A. Bartholomew to James Quick, property in Shamokin, $100.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Jeffrey L. Deppen to BWH Properties LLC, property in Shamokin, $255.

Jarrett S. and Tricia M. Heitzman and Tricia M. Higgins to Jarrett S. and Tricia M. Heitzman, property in Ralpho Township, $1.

Mary J. and Lewis C. Snyder and Patricia A. Shutt to Catherine R. and David S. Fantini, property in Mount Carmel, $8,500.

Mary Kuzo estate, Maureen and William Kuzo, executors, to Corey Kent, property in Mount Carmel Township, $100,000.

Susan M. and Michael D. Fluck to Marcus B. Fluck, property in Riverside, $1.

Troy A. and Olivia A. Zellers to Debora M. Bordner, property in Sunbury, $1.

Steven R. Sprenkle to Lee J. Jr. and Rachel G. Phillips, property in Jackson Township, $135,000.

BWH Properties LLC to KMC Advisors LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $3,550.

Thomas E. Jr. and Karen L. Newman to Thomas E. Jr. and Karen L. Newman, property in Little Mahanoy Township, $1.

Northumberland County Sheriff, Chad M. and Tinsle L. Betts and Tinsle L. Buck to Emily M. Kerstetter and Christopher J. Reis, property in Sunbury, $57,001.

James H. Steigerwalt estate, Suzanne L. Roshoe and Kenneth A. Steigerwalt, executors, to Joshua D. Derk and Shannon R. Brosious, property in Lower Augusta Township, $1.

Bernice A. Marshall estate, June L. Thomas, executrix, Edra C. Williams, executrix and individually, and Harry W. Williams Jr. and Michael A. and June L. Thomas to Edra C. and Harry W. Williams Jr., property in Sunbury, $1.

Brian D. and Melisa Lamberton to Jamey Shade, property in Riverside, $131,500.

Ronald M. and Terri A. Seiler to Ronald M. and Terri A. Seiler and Seiler Irrevocable Residential and Income Trust, property in Jordan Township, $1.

Patrick W. Madden to Joshua M. Kalinowski, property in Shamokin, $20,000.

Jeffrey L. and Debra L. Potteiger to Jeffrey L. Potteiger, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Frank R. Sabol estate, Frank R. Sabol Jr., executor, to Frank R. Jr. and Dawnette M. Sabol, property in Rush Township, $240,000.

Andrew C. and Sandra L. Moore to Jackson Township, property in Jackson Township, $67,700.

Alecia R. Malick, Diane C. Totten, Ray C. and Vicky E. Malick and April M. and James L. Brophy to Alecia R. Malick, property in Shamokin Township, $74,400.

Wendy Ross-Mahne and John Mahne to Ryan A. Boyer, property in Lower Augusta Township, $20,000.

Forrest William Jr. and Debra A. Shoop to Jerry K. and Joyce M. Troup, property in Upper Augusta Township, $93,802.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau, Virginia E. Bradigan and Helen Herb to Francis Devizia, property in Shamokin, $100.

Michael E. and Brenda L. Shevitski to Ralph M. Koch, property in Shamokin, $25,000.

Richard L. and Linda M. Hornberger to Joseph R. Hornberger, property in Coal Township, $1.

Peggy A. Updegrove to Anne R. and Thomas R. Poploskie, Amber M. and Thomas C. Einsig and Jeffrey R. and Julie A. Updegrove, properties in Ralpho and Shamokin townships, $1.

Joan M. Yost to Joan M. Yost, property in Riverside, $1.

Bernice A. Marshall estate, Edra C. Williams, executrix and individually, June L. Thomas, co-executrix and June L. Williams, Harry W. Williams Jr. and Michael A. Williams to June L. and Michael A. Thomas, property in Sunbury, $1.

Agnes L. Kerdock estate, Judith Gustus, executrix, to Du-Rite LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $13,000.

Kim A. Konyar to Jade D. Nelson and Ashley M. Smith, property in Zerbe Township, $69,000.

Randi M. and Sherrianne M. Cox to Aaron Adams, property in Ralpho Township, $100,000.

Philip R. Losiewicz, Jennifer M. Van Doren and Jennifer M. Losiewicz to Melissa L. Curran, property in Coal Township, $68,500.

Gordon P. Shuler, Debra A. and Michael W. Funkhouser and Margaret L. Foust to Gordon P. Shuler and Sandra M. Braden, property in Riverside, $1.

Richard P. Lesher to Terry E. Jeffries, property in Jordan Township, $21,000.

Nicholas J. Shebelsky estate, Robert A. Shebelsky, executor, to Sherri Clark Shebelsky, property in Coal Township, $1.

Nicholas J. Shebelsky estate, Robert A. Shebelsky, executor, to John A. and Melissa Marie Hovenstine, property in Coal Township, $150,000.

Ivy Grissell Venegas Mitidieri to BWH Properties LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $1,000.

SHAMOKIN - The flip of a switch later this week will determine whether or not the Lawton W. Shroyer Memorial Swimming Pool will open on time.

The 400,000-gallon pool on South Rock Street will be filled Thursday into Friday, at least halfway. At that point, the recirculating pump will be turned on.

If it primes, the pool will be good to go. If not, it will remain closed until a replacement pump already on order is delivered.

As of yet, there is no date of delivery for the pump.

"Every year there's a problem. We've met, and as far as I know, it's going to open on time," Councilman Bill Milbrand, in charge of parks and recreation, said Saturday. "It depends on whether or not the pump will work,"

"You can't just go to the shelf of a hardware store and buy a pump like that. They're specially built," he said.

Larry Strausser, city technician, is fairly confident the pump will work, but admitted no one will know until they turn it on.

One thing working in the city's favor this week is the weather. While temperatures maxed out at a tick above 90 degrees Saturday, current forecasts have them in the low- to mid-70s this week and approaching 80 degrees this weekend - good weather, no doubt, but not a heat wave.

Worthy, or too costly?

The facility, which opened in 1970, can be a headache for elected officials and the city employees tasked to keep it open. Many believe, however, that it is a worthy headache.

The pool opened late in 2007 because of mechanical issues and again in 2009 due to weather and because of debate among the former council about its financial impact on the city. In 2010, modifications costing more than $80,000 were undertaken to meet federal safety standards. The pump malfunctioned again in 2011 and delayed the start of the season by nearly one month. Another malfunction closed the pool temporarily last July.

When it's open and when the weather cooperates, it's a strong draw for area children and parents - 350 on average and 600 on a busy day.

Detractors criticize the pool's mechanical issues, and there have been many over the years, and that it operates at an annual loss of thousands of dollars. Supporters hold it up as one of few recreational offerings in Shamokin, and say that alone makes it worth the cost, even if it does lose money.

Pump 15 years old

The mechanical issue at the swimming pool is caused by a failing recirculating pump, which is the primary component of the pool's workings. It draws water out of the pool, filters it and returns it as it's chemically treated.

Current law requires the entire volume of a public swimming pool be turned over at least once every eight hours in an effort to prevent recreational water illnesses, Strausser said.

Estimated at more than 15 years old, the pump has passed its life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. It has actually been rebuilt three times rather than replaced. The latest and final rebuild came last summer after it malfunctioned in July, temporarily closing the facility.

Cost estimates for a new pump were reportedly sought in January, and council voted in February to advertise its intent to seek bids for a new one. A purchase was approved during a special meeting April 15, with council voting to accept the low bid of $55,700 from Stoneridge Inc., of Feasterville. That price holds if it's installed on a three-day schedule and rises to $59,300 if it's chosen to be installed in two days.

A back-and-forth on the schematics for the pump and the availability of equipment has slowed the process.

At the time the purchase was made, council members spoke of the possibility that the new pump may not arrive before the Shroyer pool's season was to begin, which comes after Shamokin Area School District closes for summer break. That scenario has played out as the last day of school is Friday and there's no date yet for the new pump's arrival and installation.

Prices to be set

City employees have been working on touching up and cleaning the pool's shell. That work slowed last week as focus switched to preparations for the annual Anthracite Heritage Festival of the Arts.

City council hasn't yet set the cost for admission and season passes for 2013. They are expected to do that during a special meeting Wednesday prior to the monthly council workshop session. It's not expected that the prices will rise, Milbrand said.

He added that while most of the staffing for the pool remains in place, some lifeguards will be needed.

Ribbon-cutting set at playground

KULPMONT - A ribbon-cutting and celebration for the new playground at the Terry-Miriello Field is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 12.

Anyone who donated time, money, food or labor is welcome to attend. For more information, contact Joe Cesari at 373-3561.

The playground was funded by a grant of more than $40,000 from the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, $5,000 from the Degenstein Foundation, $2,500 from the Northumberland County Recreation Board and more than $10,000 that was raised through local concerts by the Mahoney Brothers, the Kulpmont Cruise and other community events.

Help available at Masser's office

ELYSBURG - State Rep. Kurt Masser, R-107, announced that Pat Gorman from the Northumberland County Veterans Affairs Office and a representative from U.S. Rep. Barletta's office will again be available in his Elysburg district office, 467 Industrial Park Road, to assist area residents.

A member of Barletta's staff will be present from 2 to 4 p.m. Monday to assist with federal issues. A staff member from the congressman's office is scheduled to be in Masser's office on the first Monday of every month.

Gorman will be at the office from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, June 19. A county veterans affairs representative is scheduled to be in Masser's district office the third Wednesday of each month to assist area veterans.

Family Fun Fair is Thursday

NORTHUMBERLAND - State Rep. Lynda Schlegel Culver, R-108, invites residents of the 108th District to her third annual Family Fun Fair to be held from 4 to 9 p.m. Thursday at Liberty Splashland, 178 Prince St.

Admission is free. Activities for kids and refreshments will be available. At 9 p.m. there will be an outdoor movie on the lawn, so Culver reminds attendees to bring dry clothes, along with a blanket or lawn chairs.

For more information, contact her district office at 106 Arch St., Sunbury, call 286-5885 or visit lyndaculver.com or facebook.com/repculver.

HARRISBURG - Four men were ordained into the priesthood for the Diocese of Harrisburg at St. Patrick Cathedral Saturday.

Kevin Lee Kayda, Stephen Philip Kelley, Daniel Kevin Richards and Mark Thomas Wilke were ordained into the priesthood of Jesus Christ through the imposition of hands by the Most Rev. William J. Waltersheid, auxiliary bishop of Pittsburgh and an Ashland native.

Waltersheid was the principal celebrant and performed the rite of ordination during the Mass.

Kayda, 27, of Lancaster, graduated seminary at Mount St. Mary, Emmittsburg, Md. He is a member of St. Patrick parish, Carlisle.

Kelley, 40, of Chambersburg, graduated from St. Vincent Seminary, Latrobe. He is a member of St. Patrick parish, York.

Richards, 27, of Lebanon, completed his Masters of Divinity degree at Mount St. Mary Seminary. He is a member of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary parish, Lebanon.

Wilke, 30, of Dallastown, graduated from Mount St. Mary. He is a member of St. Joseph Parish, Dallastown.

Waltersheid was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Harrisburg in 1992 by then Bishop Nicholas C. Dattilo. He was ordained an auxiliary bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh in April 2011.

A video of the ordination is planned and will be available on the diocesan website at www.hbgdiocese.org/live.

DANVILLE - The National Business Group on Health, a nonprofit association of large U.S. employers, recognized Geisinger Health System (GHS) with its Gold Award for ongoing commitment and dedication to promoting a healthy workplace and encouraging employees and families to pursue and maintain healthy lifestyles.

Geisinger, among 65 U.S. employers that received the 2013 Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles award, received the Gold Award for the second time for its "robust" employee wellness program. Geisinger joins Campbell Soup Co., Capital One Financial Corp., Chrysler Group LLC, Fidelity Investments, General Mills, State Farm, Target and Walgreens in the Gold category.

"We are committed to continued investment in the health and well-being of our Geisinger family and delivering innovative ways for our employees to engage in healthy lifestyles," said Amy Brayford, GHS chief human resource officer.

Geisinger began cultivating a culture of wellness among employees in 2006 with the implementation of the employee wellness program. The program aims to motivate Geisinger family members to be active partners in achieving a healthy lifestyle. This is year two of the organization's expanded focus on employee population health management, including the incentive-based MyHealth Rewards program, which moves employees toward a healthy lifestyle through education, awareness and health/wellness coaching.

"Geisinger is among an elite group of organizations that are leading the way to promoting healthy workplaces and lifestyles," said Helen Darling, president and CEO of the National Business Group on Health.

KULPMONT - The Saint Mother Pauline Foundation held its first auction Saturday, with proceeds benefiting its children's charities.

The foundation hosts Camp Pauline, a diabetes camp, as well as an annual circus at the Veterans Sports Complex and a children's Christmas event at the Mount Carmel Area Junior-Senior High School.

Many businesses and citizens donated gift certificates, furniture, sports memorabilia, purses, jewelry and knickknacks put up for auction by Ray Moncavage Auctions, which donated its services

Organizers were disappointed at the turnout, with less than 20 people participating in the auction midway through the afternoon event. It was obvious some were bidding on and winning items not out of want, but simply to help out the charity.

Most in attendance, however, enjoyed the outdoor auction due in large part to the welcoming shade of the large trees on the grounds of the Mother Pauline Center.

The low attendance meant good deals.

Gift certificates worth $20 to $30 were selling for between $5 and $10. A landscaping service worth $100 sold for $30, a steam cleaner which retails at $130 sold for $10 and a patio set valued above $2,200 sold for $180.

Reggie Poplaski, of Shamokin, and her friend Carol Patton, of Danville, are members of the Healing Heart of Jesus Society at the Mother Pauline Center and sat together at the auction.

Poplaski scooped up some Exxon trucks for her grandson, along with some collectible $2 notes. "And a walker for my legs," she said with a laugh, speaking of a pink rolling walker. "It's that time of my life."

Patton bought the walker for Poplaski. She also bought an angel light to use at a cemetery and four sets of coin proofs. Her good deed for Poplaski may have pushed some good fortune in her favor as another friend at the auction, Vince Guarna, gave her a Keurig coffee maker they were both bidding on.

Poplaski and Patton were happy to spend money on the charities they both support.

"Sometimes these kids fall through the cracks. When they come here they're taught to be more independent with their disease," Poplaski said of the children who attend Camp Pauline.

Guarna was piling up auction items - tools, some furniture and living room accent pieces, sports cards - even a giant teddy bear he seemed to buy just to get a reaction from his girlfriend, Colleen Castetter Fessler.

"It's all for charity," he said, implying that he didn't necessarily have a whole lot of use for what he purchased, doing so to bolster the Mother Pauline Center's charity coffers.

Fessler herself walked away with what she saw as the prizes of the auction, an autographed football and New York Giants helmet from the team's quarterback, Eli Manning.

She knew what would come of those two items - she'd hold on to them and eventually pass them on to a nephew. As for the rest of it, she looked down at the stuff laying around she and Guarna and simply said, "I just don't know."

SHAMOKIN - An 8-year-old girl suffered multiple injuries Monday afternoon when she was hit by a car driven by a woman who left the scene.

Patrolman Jarrod Scandle said Destiny Rubio, of 40 S. Anthracite St., suffered arm, leg and facial injuries in the 3:20 p.m. accident at Anthracite and Arch streets near her home.

Scandle said Rubio was standing on a sidewalk on the north side of Arch Street when she walked in between two school buses onto Arch Street, where she was struck by the front of a dark colored car traveling west on Arch Street.

Rubio was transported by AREA Services Ambulance to Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital, where she underwent emergency room treatment before being released.

Witnesses told police the driver initially stopped at the scene and asked about the condition of the girl before getting back into her car and leaving the area. The driver was described by witnesses as a tall white female with dark or red hair. She was wearing a dark red shirt and black shorts.

Anyone with information about the accident or driver is urged to call Scandle at 648-5708.

BLOOMSBURG - A Columbia County judge ordered the attorneys in a Cleveland Township appeals case to transcribe testimony at the next zoning board hearing before deciding whether residents fighting against proposed chicken barns must post a $151,100 bond.

Judge Gary E. Norton addressed more than 50 people in courtroom 1 in the county courthouse Monday afternoon after meeting privately with Atty. Joseph C. Michetti, who is representing the residents, and Atty. Lloyd Hampton, who is representing Joel and Sarah Knoebel, the couple hoping to build the chicken barns.

He said it would be redundant for the parties involved to provide testimony for hours in his courtroom when they were already in the process of doing so during the zoning hearing board meetings.

Last week, there was nearly four hours of testimony concerning the residents' appeal, and they will be meeting again at 7 p.m. Monday at the Cleveland Township Municipal building, at which time there will likely be another four hours of testimony.

Norton instructed the attorneys to have that meeting, type up a transcript and submit it and briefs to the court for review by July 8.

At that time, another hearing will be scheduled to determine whether the residents must post the bond for the appeal process.

While the decision of the zoning board is appealable - and whichever side loses will likely appeal to the higher court in front of Norton - the bond is not appealable.

'Frivolous' case?

The Knoebels, of 110 Center School Road, are the owners of Cleveland Pork, a five-year-old pork producing operation contracted with County View Family Farms, Middletown.

They were given permits to build two 43-by-500-foot poultry barns along Wynn School Road on part of a 76-acre tract of land in February, but the residents appealed their permits in March, saying building a Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) would be detrimental to their health, quality of life and property value.

However, the Knoebels say the zoning process has cost them income and the ability to expand their agriculture business, and call the residents' case "frivolous," because the property is in a R2 Residential Medium District zone, which allows for conditional use of agriculture and horticulture.

Lost revenue

The six-figure bond was determined by how much the barns could make Knoebel, how much he is losing in selling chicken manure, increased costs, attorney fees and miscellaneous and incidental costs, including lost interest.

If the residents lose their case, the bond would be made payable immediately to the Knoebels if the judge determines whether there should be a bond in the appeal process.

Johanna Lucid, of 24 Wynn School Road; Barbara Freeman, of 74 Wynn School Road, and Marianne Zenyuch, of 89 Monroe Drive, sat with Michetti in the front of the courtroom. Joel Knoebel and his wife sat in the front with Hampton.

Last week, Lucid said she and her husband Tom would be stuck if the barns were built, saying they don't have the money to move.

Knoebel and Hampton both declined comment after the court hearing Monday.

The Knoebels already operate two CAFOs on their 600 acres of property in the region: a 4,500-pig farm located on their home property, approximately three miles east of the R2 District, which is operated under Cleveland Pork; and a 2,200-pig farm located in Irish Valley, operated under the name RK Farms Inc.

Since last year

The battle began in April 2012 when the Knoebels spread manure on farmland surrounding Wynn School, Middle and Polk roads. Residents complained about the "overwhelming" stench and expressed concerns about their health.

Residents have been pushing for the Cleveland Township supervisors to pass an amendment to the zoning ordinance that would limit large-scale animal farms in a residential district. It would ban against a CAFO from exceeding 100 livestock animals within 500 yards of a residential dwelling in the R2 district.

Two grandsons of a Mount Carmel man recently graduated from universities while another grandson completed his sophomore year of college.

James Philip Mortensen, a son of Susan and Glenn Mortensen, of Laurel, Md., graduated with a degree in computer science from the University of Maryland Baltimore Campus, an honors university. He has accepted a position teaching undergraduate students in the computer and engineering labs at the university.

Briton Sean Gergen, a son of Robert and Laura Gergen, of Ambler, graduated magna cum laude from the College of Engineering at Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y. He has accepted a position with Oracle Corporation in Red Wood City, Calif., a multi-national computer technology corporation that ranks third in the world to Microsoft and IBM.

Trevor Gergen, a son of Robert and Laura Gergen, has completed his sophomore year at Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Mass., with a 4.0 grade point average and will be studying at the London School of Economics in London, England, from October to June 2014. He will then return to Boston College for his senior year.

Mortensen and the Gergen brothers are grandsons of Philip Gergen, of Mount Carmel, and the late Joan Gergen.