INDIANA, Pa. - Matthew Charles Altomare, a 2011 graduate of Mount Carmel Area High School, was named to the dean's list at Indiana University of Pennsylvania for the fall semester with a 3.58 grade-point average.
He is a son of Carol Altomare and the late James Altomare, and a grandson of Antoinette Niglio and the late Charles Niglio, all of Mount Carmel.
Altomare is majoring in music education with a minor in piano.
The WVIA Artists of the Week representing Mount Carmel Area have been announced. Senior Jessica Pachuski was chosen in the performing arts category, and senior Sierra Nolter in visual arts. The Artist of the Week campaign is designed to bring attention to high school students who have excelled in the visual and performing arts.
Pachuski is a member of the National Honor Society and participates in chorus. After being raised on Rodgers & Hammerstein musicals, Pachuski seized the lead roles of the annual spring operetta this year and last. In 2014 and in previous years, she qualified for the PMEA District 8 Jazz, District Chorus and Region 4 Chorus. She plans to pursue a career in speech pathology.
Nolter loves mixed media artwork and her favorite artist is impressionist, Salvador Dali. A student of both MCA art teachers, Jenn Stahr and Theresa Madison, she is a prominent member of the art club, and has won many awards at the past two art shows at MCA. She plans to enter the workforce after high school and to pursue a lifetime of happiness. Nolter stated, "Whatever I do in life, art will always be a huge part of my life. Ever since I was a little girl, I was intrigued by how things look when put together."
Watch for both Pachuski and Nolter and their one-minute spotlight featured the week of Feb. 2 to 8 on the WVIA national public television network and on WVIA.org. Both artists will also now be in the running to compete for WVIA Artist of the Year.
DANVILLE - Brady Funeral Home was hired by the Sisters of Christian Charity to relocate 289 graves at Holy Family Convent.
The burials at the convent date from 1927 to 1947, as reported in Thursday's edition of The Daily Item.
The graves will be relocated to St. Joseph Cemetery, Danville.
Geisinger System Services purchased the 19-acre convent at 1 Montour St.
Built in 1969, it had been for sale for one year. The sisters have owned the land for 115 years.
Between 300 and 400 employees are expected to work at the building, mostly from information technology.
The 60 retired nuns have three years to relocate. There are plans for a retirement building to be constructed for them in New Jersey.
LOCUST GAP - Postal officials announced Monday the Locust Gap Post Office will be temporarily closed because of a weather-related emergency.
It's believed water pipes in the building froze and may have burst, damaging the post office.
Until the situation is resolved, Locust Gap customers can pick up their mail at the Mount Carmel Post Office, 1 S. Hickory St., Mount Carmel from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday. Mail delivery isn't affected.
"Locust Gap customers can be assured we'll continue to provide the same level of service at the Mount Carmel Post Office while we work to resolve the emergency situation," said Mount Carmel Postmaster Curt Evert.
Locust Gap customers can call the Mount Carmel Post Office at 570-339-1300, with any questions.
HAZLETON - U.S Rep. Lou Barletta (R-11) kicked off his re-election campaign Thursday.
The former Hazleton mayor was first elected to the seat in 2010 after defeating 13-term incumbent Paul Kanjorski. In 2012, Barletta, defeated Democratic activist Gene Stlip in the November election.
He said in a press release that he wants to "continue my fight for the people" he represents.
"As someone who sees the world through the eyes of a mayor, my priorities are always local," he said. "But we have also made progress on important national issues like cutting Washington's wasteful spending and protecting my constituents from the harmful impact of Obamacare."
He said that through his chairmanship of the Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee, he has been able to save more than $700 million in taxpayer funds by applying "the common sense principles I learned as a small-business owner and as a mayor to how Washington does business."
He said he'll continue to defend American workers and small towns across this country by opposing any attempt to grant amnesty to those that are in the country illegally.
"And, judging from the letters and phone calls I receive, the concerns people share with me when I am touring their town or meeting with community leaders, it is clear that the people of my district are deeply concerned about the negative effects of Obamacare. Just recently, the pressure I and many of my colleagues put on the Internal Revenue Service prevented the agency from treating volunteer firefighters as employees for federal tax purposes," he noted.
As a result, volunteer fire and rescue companies will not have to face crushing Obamacare costs for their volunteers. "I will still be pursuing legislation to write the protection of volunteer firefighters into law, so that this issue will not be subject to the whims of IRS policy makers," he said.
He said his legislative efforts have included the Disaster Loan Fairness Act of 2013, something he said he did in response to the federal government not doing enough to help families and businesses rebuild after Tropical Storm Lee in 2011.
"There's still a great deal of work to be done in Washington and I humbly and sincerely ask for the support of the people of the 11th District," Barletta said. "Together, with their help, support and prayers we will put America back on the right track and guarantee a better opportunity for our children and our grandchildren."
COAL TOWNSHIP - The Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) Authority members will be petitioning the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for funding to hire a park operations manager.
During the first regular meeting in the new trailhead welcome center on the AOAA property Monday night, the members voted to apply for a circuit grant and advertise for the petition contingent upon securing the funding.
If awarded the grant, the position will be fully funded in the first year and then funded 75 percent in the second year, 50 percent in the third and 25 percent in the fourth, said authority Chairman Jim Backes.
The authority would have to pick up the health care and pension benefits though, he added.
The salary and benefits will be determined once the grant is awarded, Backes said.
According to the position description, the operations manager "will take the lead role in management of the daily operations of the facility, events, maintenance, security and marketing of the AOAA."
Tasks would include hiring and training staff members, coordinating events, developing new trails, marketing the facility and maintaining the property, among other listed responsibilities.
They plan to advertise via newspapers, the AOAA website and CareerLink.
"The broader we advertise, the better the candidates," said Backes.
The tentative grand opening date this year is May 17.
Goals
The authority also adopted its 2014 goals.
For operations and management, the authority members want to open the facility to riders on weekends first and then add days when possible, hire the manager and part-time employees as income allows, encourage volunteerism, hold two full-size vehicle events and one community event, hold ATV youth training courses, develop an advanced hunting policy and develop an advanced committee process with more communication.
For property and asset management, the authority members want to have maps of trails on facility; mark intersections, property boundaries, dangerous areas and private property; acquire easements across properties to connect the east and west properties and work with adjoining land owners to either block existing trails or allow us to use trails and provide them with liability insurance; tie dead end trails together; hire a security firm to maintain rules and stop illegal users; stop or limit illegal dumping and clean up existing dump sites; apply for more grants, and complete the enclosed planting areas on the current site.
For financial management, the authority members want to be financially stable, set up Quickbooks to enable authority to manage financial operations efficiently, purchase insurance, generate enough income to pay all expenses, secure funding for working capital have fundraisers and events to generate revenue and create a process for advertisers.
In other business, the authority approved a motion to host the Brush Valley Chamber of Commerce luncheon Feb. 18.
HARRISBURG - State Sen. John R. Gordner (R-27) on Monday was unanimously elected majority caucus chair for the remainder of the 2013-14 session by Senate Republicans. Gordner replaces former Sen. Mike Waugh (R-28), who recently resigned to accept a position as executive director of the Pennsylvania Farm Show.
As caucus chair, Gordner will assist the majority leader and majority whip in formulation of the Senate's daily legislative calendar. He will also preside over the Republican caucus meetings.
Gordner previously served as majority caucus administrator. He is also chairman of the Senate Labor and Industry Committee.
He has been a member of the Senate since 2003 and previously served five terms in the House of Representatives from the 109th Legislative District.
"I look forward to my increased responsibilities and I appreciate the confidence of the members of my caucus as they elected me to this position," he was quoted in a press release from his office.
"The Senate Majority Caucus Chair plays an integral role in the day-to-day operation of Senate, especially on session days," Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati (R-25) was quoted in the release. "Sen. Gordner's diligent work ethic and strong organizational skills will be a tremendous asset to the Republican Caucus as he takes on this position."
"Sen. Gordner has earned a reputation for being one of the most hard-working and thorough members of the Senate," said Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi (R-9). "His colleagues in the Senate Republican Caucus know that the thoughtful, balanced approach he takes to representing the 27th District will serve him well in this key leadership role."
With yet another wave of extreme cold weather predicted this week, UGI recommends the following tips to help ensure the safe and reliable use of home heating equipment:
- Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors and the batteries powering them are fresh.
- Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can result from a malfunctioning heating unit or another fuel-burning appliance, as well as from a blocked chimney. CO poisoning is more common during cold weather, when heating units are functioning and home windows and doors are closed tightly. CO is a colorless, odorless, gas. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. Signs that an appliance may be producing CO include condensation on walls and windows, house pets becoming sluggish, plants dying and residents in the home suffering flu-like symptoms or feeling unusually tired. Individuals who believe they may be experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning should immediately seek fresh air and prompt medical attention.
- Never use a generator, grill, stove or other fossil fuel burning device inside a home, garage of other enclosed area. Never heat a home with an oven if your electricity goes out.
- Use extra caution when using space heaters. Place a space heater on a level, hard surface and keep anything flammable (such as paper, clothing, bedding, curtains or rugs) at least three feet away from the unit.
- If you are using a fireplace, use a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.
- Turn off space heaters and make sure fireplace embers are out before leaving the room or going to bed. Using secondary heating sources, such as space heaters, can increase the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning
- In extreme cold weather, your heating unit may have difficulty maintaining the temperature set on your thermostat based on the system capacity and other factors. However, if your equipment is not functioning properly, you may need to contact your heating contractor.
- On days when snow or ice fall, clear any accumulation from the outside vents of your furnace or other natural gas appliances. This allows air the flow necessary for safe operation. Blocked vents can lead to a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide.
- If the snow is deep, you should clear the area around the gas meter, providing a path for UGI personnel who may require access. Please work carefully around your gas meter. Keep snow blowers and plows away from the gas meter.
- Remember that an electric power outage will affect blowers and newer heaters with electronic ignitions. If your gas heater does not relight when the power returns, turn the unit off for a moment, then back on. If it still does not light, call a heating professional for service.
- Be aware that UGI adds an odorant, which smells like rotten eggs, to natural gas to help you detect a gas leak. The odorant is added in small concentrations and is harmless. If you smell an odor of rotten eggs, leave the building immediately, taking everyone with you. Do not use the phone, light a match or switch anything on or off. Leave the door open, and once clear of the area, call UGI from a cell phone or neighbor's home. UGI's emergency response number is 1-800-276-2722. UGI will send a service technician to investigate the odor immediately. UGI emergency responders are available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.
UGI says it has increased staffing in both its call center and operations centers to respond to emergency situations during the extreme cold weather.
On the Net: www.ugi.com
Soupie contest to be held at Maine
COAL TOWNSHIP - Maine Fire Company will hold its annual soupie contest at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 1, at the fire company.
Food surplus distribution set
KULPMONT - Surplus food will be distributed from 8 a.m. to noon Thursday at the borough garage. Residents are reminded to bring their bags.
Historical society to meet
MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Area Historical Society will meet at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, in the Mount Carmel Area Public Library.
Casey McCracken will speak on early Mount Carmel area land warrants. All area residents are invited.
Changing of the Colors Feb. 23
MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Area Joint Veterans Committee will holds its Changing of the Colors flag ceremony at 1 p.m. Sunday, Fev. 23, at Second and Oak streets.
The flag will be raised in memory and honor of Francis V. Kwiatkowski, who served in the U.S. Navy.
Prince's Birthday banquet planned
MOUNT CARMEL - The Anthracite Steam Fire Company will hold its 81st annual Prince's Birthday banquet at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15.
The event is held in memory and honor of the company's first two fire horses.
Guest speaker will be Bruce Kovach, a former member of the West End Fire Company and a Mount Carmel Borough assistant fire chief.
The Anthracite will present its annual George Hancock Memorial Award to one of its members. Music will be provided by Powerhouse Sound.
Those interested in attending the banquet can contact the company at 570-339-1770 during business hours.
SUNBURY - Northumberland County Commissioner Chairman Vinny Clausi relented Tuesday and said he will schedule a salary board meeting to discuss benefits for the county's two deputy coroners.
Coroner James F. Kelley addressed the commissioners at their meeting, imploring them to convene the salary board to discuss Clausi and Commissioner Stephen Bridy's Dec. 27 vote to enforce a salary board policy that prohibits part-time employees from receiving full-time benefits.
Kelley argues that his chief deputy, James Gotlob, of Sunbury, is full time and should be able to receive health care insurance at the same rate paid by other county employees rather than 50 percent of the county's premium.
The change in premium will be in effective as of Saturday, raising the rate for Gotlob, who has a two-party plan, from $175 to $694 a month, or from $2,100 to $8,328 a year, if he chooses to keep the county coverage. The new annual rate would represent more than 56 percent of his $14,762 salary.
The deputy coroners are not eligible for other full-time benefits such as vacation time, holiday pay or pensions.
Clausi scheduled the salary board meeting for Feb. 25. The board consists of the three commissioners, the controller and the department head requesting a salary change, in this case Kelley.
'Compromise' by Kelley
At Tuesday's meeting, Kelley said he'd compromise in considering deputy Barry Leisenring is part-time, but maintained Gotlob has been his full-time chief deputy since 2002 when the coroner's office was restructured.
The coroner has previously said his deputies' 24/7 on-call status gives them full-time status, and that they deserve to keep full-time benefits because of the health risks inherent in their jobs. He has said that they might resign due to the change.
Clausi said minutes of previous salary board meetings do not say anything about paying benefits for the deputy coroners or that the chief deputy is considered full time. He said the receipt of benefits by part-time employees over the past decade or more has cost taxpayers some $500,000, and he suggests it amounts to "fraud."
Kelley acknowledged he received health care benefits while he was a deputy coroner, but that he did so because the county offered the coverage.
Clausi has said before that new Controller Chris Grayson has said he'll support Kelley, as will Commissioner Rick Shoch, meaning the salary board vote is a foregone conclusion, 3-2 in Kelley's favor. That's why he has resisted a meeting. Clausi and Bridy have previously said such a vote could prompt more of the county's 113 part-time workers to demand cheaper health care rates.
Shoch told Clausi a department head has a legal right to call a salary board meeting, and the commissioners can either avoid embarrassment by granting it or take the expensive way by having Kelley force them to meet.
Clausi said other than Feb. 25, no more salary board meetings would be scheduled the rest of the year. Shoch said commissioners cannot legally prevent the meetings from being held.
The county has estimated annual savings by eliminating full-time benefits for the deputies and a part-time assessor, as well as those paid to the two now-defunct jury commissioner positions, at $52,000.
Clausi said after the meeting that if the county continues to "waste" money by paying benefits for deputy coroners, it will find itself in the same situation as Shamokin. He was critical of a practice, recently stopped, whereby part-time elected officials received health care coverage paid mostly by the city.
"I worked so hard to save money; now we're going to give it away," he said.
Employee salute and dispute
The naming of solicitor Frank Garrigan as employee of the month prompted an argument between Clausi and Shoch, and Garrigan eventually declined the recognition.
Shoch said he respected Garrigan as an employee, but suggested the honor was a political reward for agreeing with Clausi and Bridy. He said Garrigan's nomination did not go through the normal process involving all three commissioners and because of that it lacked meaning.
Clausi, who said he took responsibility for nominating Garrigan, said Shoch was a "disgrace" for not wanting to recognize the solicitor for his role in securing $1 million from the Degenstein Foundation toward preserving county historical records.
Garrigan said all recognition should be given to the foundation.
Clausi said after the meeting that Shoch having any role in the situation was misrepresented by his comments as reported in The News-Item. Shoch said in a Jan. 18 article that he reached out to the foundation three weeks ago, and that Garrigan followed up after a meeting with Shoch, Clausi, Bridy, planning director Pat Mack, grants manager Kathy Jeremiah and solicitor John Muncer, and secured the pledge.
Shoch said later Tuesday he did make contact with the foundation.
"If anyone has any questions as to what my role was, or lack therefore, they should contact Michael Apfelbaum (representing the foundation) and he will tell you I reached out to them," he said.
A message left at Apfelbaum attorney's office late Tuesday afternoon was not returned.
COAL TOWNSHIP - A woman faces theft charges after she defrauded a friend in a gift card sale in December.
Nicole A. Seidel, 26, of 905 W. Pine St., was charged by Coal Township Police with theft by deception following an investigation showed she sold what appeared to be a $100 gift card for half the price, but the card only had a small amount of money on it.
Police patrolman Matthew Henrich reported in court documents that the victim, Denise Sweeney, was contacted on Facebook by Seidel Dec. 3, asking Sweeney if she wanted to buy a $100 Walmart gift card for $60.
Sweeney told Seidel that she only had $50 and asked Seidel if that was okay, and Seidel said it was fine.
Later that day, the two women met in the area of Pine and Market streets where Seidel gave her a piece of paper from the website with the gift card number and then Sweeney called a phone number to check, there was $100 on the card.
The next day, Sweeney went to Walmart to use the gift card for a law away purchase for Christmas gifts, but it only had $6.72 on it.
Sweeney went outside the store and called Seidel and informed her about the amount and that she wanted her money back. Seidel told her she would give her the money back by 7 p.m., but failed to do so.
When Sweeney informed the police about the incident, Henrich called Seidel who claimed she didn't have the money right now. She was given 48 hours to produce the cash or she would be arrested.
Seidel did not return the money by Dec. 6, and said she still didn't have the money Dec. 10 when police spoke to her again. Seidel told police she didn't want to get jail time or probation, but she did not have the money.
The charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III, of Shamokin. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 25.
Make-up days
The school board revised the 2013-14 school calendar to make up for snow days. Class will be in session on Feb. 3, Feb. 17, March 21 and June 3 to make up for four days that were canceled in December and January. The last day of school is now June 4, which will be an Act 80 day.
COAL TOWNSHIP - The Shamokin Area School Board must erase a $3 million-plus deficit for next year's budget without a significant property tax increase.
The board adopted a resolution Tuesday that prevents a tax hike beyond the 3.2 percent inflation index, a figure calculated by the state for each public school district.
That caps a potential tax increase at 0.84 mills, according to information provided by Karen Colangelo, district business manager.
The estimated deficit for 2014-15 stands at $3,094,339, a figure that must be erased before a final budget is adopted before the June 30 deadline.
At the moment there are no plans for staff furloughs to balance the budget, he said.
"We're not projecting any at this point," board President Ron McElwee said after Tuesday's monthly meeting.
He said a preliminary budget could be adopted as early as next month.
McElwee said he's hopeful that since Gov. Tom Corbett and other state legislators are up for re-election, additional state money will be made available toward public education.
Apart from holding out hopes for increases in state subsidies, McElwee cited attempts to renegotiate tuition reimbursements and health benefits for all union employees to shave the deficit figure. He also cited ongoing attempts to lower the terms of an expired lease agreement with Northwestern Academy where the district oversees both regular education and special education.
A one-year, $1.3 million lease agreement between Shamokin Area and Northwestern Academy expired in June. They are currently operating under the terms of the expired deal.
Calling the approximate $130,000 monthly rental fee "Manhattan prices," McElwee said district officials are exploring options toward educating the adjudicated youth remanded to Northwestern Academy at an off-site facility.
The district has paid the rent through January, according to Colangelo, something McElwee said was necessary to continue negotiations.
HVAC concerns
Dave Petrovich, supervisor of buildings and grounds, asked the school board to consider replacing the HVAC equipment in the middle/high school building.
Petrovich said much of the equipment was installed in 1994, calling it a "cheaper system." The system is inefficient, is costly to repair and leaves little control over comfort zones, he said, adding that the manufacturer is now out of business.
"I know we have to spend a little money to save a lot of money," he said. "With the technology today we're kind of wasting money."
The systems at the elementary and annex are solid, he said.
Petrovich was unable to provide a potential savings estimate, but said he is exploring potential grant options. He acknowledged that the initial cost will be the "big question" for school directors to consider.
School directors did not indicate if they supported the idea.
In other business, the school board voted to:
- Accept a bid of $26,378 from Great Eastern Seating Co. to replace seat backs in the auditorium balcony. Many of the seat backs are broken, creating sharp edges and posing a potential safety risk, Petrovich said. Director Ed Griffiths was initially reluctant given Petrovich's presentation on the middle/high school's HVAC system but reconsidered when told of a potential safety hazard;
- Create a groundskeeper/maintenance position and hire Michael Slodysko at a $15 hourly rate for 260 days, a move approved on a 5-1 vote with Director Rosalie Smoogen in opposition;
- Revise the position of technology technician and recall furloughed employee Rob Jones to work part-time for 200 days at an hourly rate of $12.50;
- Regrade Judy Marose to a Grade 3, which includes a $0.34 hourly rate increase, raising her wage to $18.94, a move opposed by Smoogen;
- Set the mileage reimbursement rate at $0.56 a mile per federal regulations;
- Approve a three-year measurement, administrative, stability period related to the district's responsibility to the Affordable Care Act;
- Pay Klacik and Associates no more than $5,500 to audit district tax collectors;
- Lease 183 square feet of the elementary building to Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit for $3,660 retroactive to the 2012-13 school year;
- Appoint Berkheiser Associates as delinquent tax collector, and for Berkheiser OneSource to perform an Act 80 records comparison for $735;
- Set the substitute nurse rate a $20 hourly retroactive to Dec. 9, a move opposed by Smoogen;
- Issue professional contracts and grant tenure to Rachel Gittens and Inga Maciejewski;
- Allow Colangelo to attend the Pennsylvania School Business Officers Annual Conference from March 11 to March 14 at a cost of $750.25;
- Appoint the following as elementary tutors through May 9, one hour per week at $18.50 per hour: Stephanie Boyer, Angelic Christian, Wendi Lynch, Kandy Miller, Donna Nahodil, Dana Rutkowski, Donna Talisesky and Collete Long (substitute);
- Add Nicole Bozza to the event security list at $8.15 hourly, $25 minimum per event.
LEWISBURG - As part of Geisinger's Autism and Developmental Medicine Institute's (ADMI) Community Outreach and Family Support initiative, ADMI and The Campus Theatre will offer children with special developmental needs and their families a chance to experience the joy of seeing a movie on the big screen.
The series begins Sunday with "Happy Feet" at the Campus Theatre, 413 Market St. Doors open at 1 p.m. with planned activities for children and parents. The movie begins at 2 p.m.
Dr. Thomas Challman, medical director for ADMI said this film series gives children with special needs a chance to see a movie in a theatre without experiencing sensory overload.
"Most film-goers can attest to the intensity of many of today's films - loud music, vivid special effects, explosions, fast scene changes and multiple dimensions," he said. "Imagine, then, the impact on a child with special needs who may be eager to experience the joy of seeing a movie on the big screen, but is unable to withstand the sensory overload."
The film series provides a comfortable and accepting environment for those who want to get up, move around or make noise; features family friendly movies in 2D; begins on-time, with no previews or trailers; lowers the volume of music and special effects; provides low-level lighting, instead of total darkness, and allows those with special dietary needs to bring snacks.
The event is free of charge and donations will be accepted by the theatre to fund future screenings.
Those wishing to attend must RSVP to Megan Epler at 570-522-6281 or meepler@geisinger.edu.
Future screenings are scheduled for March 16 and April 13. Doors will open at 1 p.m. for family support activities prior to each movie. Movies will begin promptly at 2 p.m.
MANDATA - The rift between Line Mountain School Board and the district's teachers continues to widen following statements made Tuesday, when each group accused the other of misleading the public and bargaining in bad faith.
Meanwhile, the school district released each teacher's current salary on its website, what they would make at the end of the district's proposed contract and what teachers are proposing for their salary schedule. District officials also plan to release more of the union's proposal today.
Teachers have been working on an expired contract since June 2012, which was a one-year extension of a five-year contract that ended June 30, 2011, that guaranteed educators a 3-percent raise each year.
In a statement released by Pennsylvania State Education Association, representative Mark McDade said the union is committed to settling a fair and equitable contract, but the school board continues to ignore state labor laws and bargain in the public eye.
"The school board had not bargained with or provided LMEA (Line Mountain Education Association) with a contract proposal in months. Instead, they practiced an unlawful tactic called "surface bargaining" where they schedule and attend meetings only for sake of it. The school board has no intention of bargaining in good faith," McDade said.
The district and the union met Jan. 23 for a contract negotiating meeting, the first in three months, but no progress was made.
The two negotiation teams never came face to face as planned that night, board President Troy Laudenslager said.
Solicitor Rich Roberts acted as a liaison between two rooms for approximately an hour, and provided the teachers with a new details in the district's proposal, but the teachers' negotiation team left without warning and failed to reschedule a meeting, he said.
"We're puzzled by their response," Laudenslager said.
The district's negotiation team consists of directors Laudenslager, Lamont Masser, David Scott Bartholomew and Lauren Hackenburg.
Response to proposal
The district also has yet to receive a complete response to the district's Aug. 21 proposal, which was also released to the public Oct. 7. (See sidebar for summary)
Asked if the move to continue releasing sensitive information was wise, Laudenslager said the district was only responding to the teachers claiming the school board was stalling and not negotiating in good faith.
"It's to persuade the public as to what the facts are. We have to let people know that they're unwilling to bargain and meet. They just want to offer a false perception to the public," he said.
Shearer said the union would be willing to work with the district in exploring more savings and settling a contract that is equitable to everyone "if the school board would meet with us more often to negotiate."
However, Laudenslager said, "They picked all the dates. They're in the driver's seat. We told them we could meet whenever they schedule meetings."
What's on the table
Under the district's proposal, the lowest paid teacher at $32,838 would make $42,378 by 2016-17 and the highest paid teacher at $63,582 would make $65,182. Under the teachers' proposal, the lowest paid teacher would make $47,757 by 2016-17 and the highest paid teacher would made $74,463.
In the district's statement online, it said teachers previously negotiated to get teachers to the maximum career salary as fast as possible in order to have money up front to pay off school loans.
"In return, they would not ask for as much money after they got to the maximum career salary. As you can see in the proposals, the LMEA is no longer following that rational," said the district.
Due to dramatically increasing costs in teacher benefit packages, the district argues it put forth a reasonable offer compared to the "extreme demands" of the union.
Even if no teacher would get a raise in the first three years of the contract, the District would still have to come up with an additional $1,186,240 to contribute to their retirement, the district said.
"Unfortunately, the retirement contribution rate is projected to escalate to 32.08 percent in the upcoming years. This is a major financial issue for the district. Funds typically paid directly to teachers for salary increases are being taken by the state to ensure the teachers' pension plans are maintained," said the district.
A PPO Highmark Blue Shield plan is offered to teachers with a $100/$200 deductible. and they also have prescription drug, dental and vision plans. The family plan costs $17,622.54 of which a teacher would contribute $90 per month.
Estimated increases for this coming 2014-15 year are approximately 21 percent; this would be another $3,700.73 per teacher with a family health insurance plan.
The district said based on these numbers and assuming no raises occur for any teachers in 2014-2015, the district will be expected to come up with an average increase over this year of $2,165 per employee for pensions and another $3,700 for a family health insurance plan, which is a total average increase of $5,865 per employee with a family health insurance plan.
"The district might be able to negotiate a smaller increase in health insurance premiums. These increases, combined with the demands of the LMEA would be devastating to the district and you as taxpayers," the district said.
"They ask for the universe and expect the world," Laudenslager said.
'Playing politics'
McDade said the majority of contracts are settled through amicable and respectful negotiations in which several proposals are exchanged and both sides listen to others' needs before finding middle ground.
"The students, parents and taxpayers derive to be represented by a school board who respects their teachers and the law, not hold them in contempt," he said.
In the statement, LMEA President Mark Shearer, a teacher, said it's unfortunate that some school board members have been "playing politics" by putting out misinformation and bad facts to the general public.
"Our teachers do pay into health care, we have taken a salary freeze, and we have always contributed into our pension unlike the state and school districts who did not contribute into the pension system for almost thirteen-years, which is causing the pension spikes," he said.
Laudenslager said the district has always contributed to pension, and the contributions have increased in recent years.
'To the rule'
The teachers there have been working to the rule since Sept. 30 to draw attention to the stalled contract negotiations. They will not volunteer their time for duties not described in their contract and will only work during contracted 7 1/2 hours.
This currently includes the after school tutoring program for which they would be paid an additional $22 per hour. Based on this decision by the LMEA and to ensure struggling students get the help they need, the school board voted to hire Melanie Fowler, Jennifer Kerstetter and Adam Menko at $22 an hour for after-school tutoring and detention at the school board meeting Tuesday night.
Shearer said the district is academically successful and everyone needs to be held accountable for student success. "That is why we are asking the school board to invest in classroom priorities that help our students pave their way for bright futures," he said.
A summary of the Line Mountain School District's Aug. 21 teacher contract proposal was released on the district's website Oct. 7. The details are as follows:
- An additional $1,204 per year is given to anyone who gets a master's degree. For every 15 credits earned beyond a master's degree up to 60 credits, teachers will receive an additional $940, $941, $940 and $1,000 per year. Also, each step will be $1,000 higher than the corresponding step for a teacher with a doctorate degree.
- The starting salary in the first year of the contract would be $32,838. By the fifth year, it would be $34,438. The top salary in the first year of the contract would be $63,582; by the fifth year, it would be $66,182.
- Any work beyond the normal work day would increase from $22 an hour to $25 an hour, and the teachers would be required to attend four meetings with 10 days notice without additional pay instead of three meetings with 30 days notice.
- As for health coverage, the district wants all employees to enroll in the Highmark Health Savings Account in which the district would supply $2,500 for a single household and $5,000 for a family starting Jan. 1, 2013. In subsequent years of 2015, 2016 and 2017, the district would deposit $1,700 into the employees's account for single household and $3,400 for families.
- Employees would be required to pay a flat rate depending on the coverage plan or 8 percent of the premium, whichever is smaller.
- Furthermore, the district is paying to the State Retirement Systems (PSERS) for each employee, and costs have dramatically increased over the past three years from 5.64 percent in 2010-11 to 16.93 percent in 2013-14.
- Based on those numbers, the district said, an employee at the top of the current salary matrix being paid $63,582 is getting an addition $10,764 paid into their retirement account. If that teacher has family health insurance, that's another $16,542.54. Therefore, the district is paying $90,889 per year for one teacher.
- The proposal also includes increased work time, additional personal days and health care waivers.
WILLIAMSPORT - A motion filed on behalf of the parents of a Line Mountain seventh-grader who have fought in court to keep their daughter in the district's all-male wrestling program asks that a federal judge award a combined $140,681.89 in legal fees.
A 170-page legal filing was made Monday by attorneys for Brian and Angie Beattie asking that $85,227.50 in fees and $1,198 in costs be paid to the Flaster/Greenberg law firm and $53,918 and $338.11 to the Women's Law Project.
Audriana Beattie had wrestled for the district's elementary program, but last school year her parents were told of the district's gender-specific policy that would prevent her from competing on the junior-senior high levels.
The issue came to a head in April when the Beatties confronted the school board about the matter. With no resolution, they filed for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction, citing equal rights discrimination violating both the state and federal constitution.
A federal judge granted both - a temporary order on Nov. 1 and the preliminary injunction on Jan. 13. The orders have allowed Beattie to continue wrestling with the district program until the case is resolved, either by settlement or by trial.
A case management conference is scheduled for Feb. 11 which would establish case deadlines. Should the matter go to trial, it wouldn't happen before December.
SHAMOKIN - Parishioners attending services in area churches Sunday will take on the challenge of fighting hunger by participating in a national event called "Souper Bowl of Caring," an annual food and financial drive coordinated with pro football's Super Bowl.
The event, sponsored locally by the Shamokin Area Ministerium of Churches, will benefit Manna for the Many, the Shamokin area's food pantry.
Donated can goods will help maintain a sufficient inventory of food supplies for Manna in its quest to continue feeding area families in need.
Any cash donations will purchase food from local suppliers for Manna's inventory.
Manna's board members have affirmed that the vision behind the Souper Bowl of Caring is to transform the occasion of the Super Bowl into a day of caring and unity.
More than 20 years ago, the Souper Bowl of Caring began with a single prayer from a single youth group in a North Carolina church. The prayer, "Lord, as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us to be mindful of those without even a bowl of soup to eat," is again used to emphasize the need for providing food to the hungry. Since that day, more than $81 million has been raised for local charities throughout the country. It has become a powerful movement that is transforming Super Bowl weekend into the nation's largest youth-led weekend of giving and serving.
As in past years, parishioners attending services in churches of their choice are asked to donate one dollar in cash and/or a can of soup. Youth are urged to get involved in collecting monetary and food donations. All donations collected remain in this area to purchase food supplies and maintain an inventory of commodies for distribution to clients registered at Manna.
Thrivent grant
In an added benefit this year, Manna has been chosen to receive a challenge grant from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, through the Trinity Lutheran Church, Sunbury Street. Thrivent will donate 50 cents for every dollar donated to Manna for the Many up to $5,000 for all donations received between Dec. 1 and March 31. Manna for the Many and Trinity Lutheran Church invite area churches to work together to meet or exceed this challenge grant.
Representatives of participating churches are asked to report the amount of money and food donations by calling the Grace Lutheran Church office 570-648-7534 between 1 and 3 p.m. Sunday and leaving a message. Last year, parishioners donated more than $1,200 and 1,700 cans of soup. The Souper Bowl donations for the past few years provided enough soup for clients for the remainder of the winter months. Manna for the Many has emphasized the need for soup donations again this year.
Manna for the Many, 144 E. Independence St., is observing its 14th year as a local food pantry. Food distribution to registered clients is held three days each week: 9 to 11 a.m., Tuesday; 1 to 3 p.m., Wednesday, and 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday. In order to receive food, clients must provide photo ID and proof of residency (current utility bill, for example) each time they come to the pantry. Manna also asks that clients bring their own bags.
The pantry is staffed entirely by volunteers, and the Manna board has stressed that without the time freely given by volunteers and the donations of cash and food from individuals, schools and other groups, the program would not be possible.
SUNBURY - Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Rosini announced today that his office has been provided with a new version of the lottery scam.
In this mailing, the individual received a letter indicating it was from the "Heritage Financial Group" stating the individual had won a large sum of money in the "International Shoppers Lotto Powerball." Rosini noted that no such lotto exists.
A check in the amount of $3,875 was enclosed with the letter which is stated to be for paying the "applicable government taxes." The recipient is requested to call and is then instructed to send a portion of the check amount to the "government agent" to cover the taxes.
In reality, the check, when deposited, will be returned with no account from the listed bank and the money withdrawn by the victim will be their responsibility to repay. They will be stuck with repaying the bank, not receiving their supposed winnings.
Rosini cautioned everyone, especially senior citizens who have been the target of this and other mailings, to be wary of any correspondence indicating they have won a lottery.
"If you didn't buy a ticket and don't have it in your possession, you can't win any lottery - especially one that does not exist," Rosini said.
The district attorney said that scam artists prey on senior citizens and have been successful because people believe they have won something. The scam artists have the age-old desire, Rosini said, to get something for nothing that they use to rip off seniors.
"I urge all senior citizens and anyone who receives this type of mailing to turn it over to their local police department," Rosini said. "No one should send out any money based on a check they receive in the mail from a company they have not dealt with in the past to claim a lottery prize for which they never bought a ticket."
Rosini said if someone thinks they have a valid check, take the check to the bank and let them determine if it is valid before withdrawing any money and sending it to an unknown party.
"The depositor may receive a return check fee, but that is better than losing out on more than $1,000," Rosini said.
