COAL TOWNSHIP - Walking into the Northumberland County Career and Technology School (NCCTC) Thursday evening during its open house was like stepping back in time for Alen and Mary Straub.

The Shamokin couple haven't been in the building since graduating from the school - 1976 for Alen from the masonry program and 1977 for Mary from the textile program. The school just celebrated its 40th anniversary.

"A lot has changed, but a lot has stayed the same," Mary Straub said after an hour of touring the childcare, automotive, electrical, welding and protective services rooms.

A new program that wasn't offered 35 years ago is Mike Bradley's welding class, which provides students with training and offers students internationally recognized certification testing for free.

There's also the new Patricia C. Rosini Greenhouse in the culinary arts program, taught by Jim Schiavoni, that's maintained by the students at the school. There's also a library and a computer lab, the Straubs said.

Mary Straub said she's surprised there aren't more courses offered, but admitted the programs seem to be high quality.

What hasn't changed is some of the decor - the tiles and the lockers have remained the same, she said.

Having a vo-tech school in the county is a positive thing, the couple said.

"If you can't afford to go to college, this gives kids a good start and teaches them so many things to get into jobs," Mary Straub said.

"It's almost better than college, if you get into electrical or welding," Alen Straub said.

More than 100 people attended the open house during which instructors and aides highlighted the 10 programs, said James Monaghan, NCCTC administrative director.

As part of the night, the culinary students provided food and students took photographs of the night for the yearbook, he added.

In each classroom, instructors explained the curriculum to parents and potential students to entice them to attend the school and enroll in their programs.

Steve and Alicia Gross and their son, Derik, a sophomore at Shamokin Area, spoke with Matt Dunn, protective services instructor during the tour.

"It's interesting, and there's a shortage of young people going into these trades," said Steve Gross.

His son said he liked what he had seen during the open house.

"You can get hands on, and not just learn it from a textbook. You can get real knowledge of what to do," he said.

Jack Brown, another sophomore at Shamokin Area, said he wanted to continue the legacy of his father, the former Shamokin City Police Cpl. John Brown.

"He always does what's right, and he does what's best for the community," the younger Brown said.

The protective services program, which trains participants in police, fire and EMS capacities, would give the high school student the foundation of skills he needs for his future career goal of a military medic, said Dunn.

"I like that he's going to get his EMT training. He'll be a step ahead in the military," said John Brown.

Denise Brown, Jack's mother, said she is proud of her son and his future plans.

"Where else are you going to get the training, graduate and then be able to work?" More should come here," she said.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The bulk of interior renovation work at Shamokin Area Elementary School is expected to be completed by year's end.

Dave Petrovich, buildings and grounds supervisor, said Thursday that the administrative office should reopen after the Thanksgiving break and the cafeteria would reopen no later than after the Christmas break.

Both the administrative office and cafeteria are temporarily housed inside the school gymnasium, with office personnel set up on the gym stage, while an estimated $4 million renovation project continues.

The new kitchen equipment is on hand, but Petrovich said he will not reopen the cafeteria prematurely.

"Next week, we should open the library and be done with that," Petrovich said during a meeting Thursday of the district school board's buildings and grounds committee - Bob Getchey, committee chairman, Jeff Kashner and Brian Persing. Director Charles Shuey also attended.

Petrovich presented a slide show to committee members, explaining that work is progressing in offices and a break room, along with inside the cafeteria, where tile could be laid in about a week.

New pumps for the chillers have been installed and are operating, potable drinking water is now available in all classrooms and the temporary washing stations have been removed now that bathroom renovations have been completed.

A hot water tank recently arrived for installation; so have new interior doors.

Some cosmetic work remains on the bus loop outside the building's main entrance with vegetation to be planted Monday.

The roof replacement project that had begun but was put temporarily on hold will begin next spring. Petrovich said four to five weeks of work remains.

Petrovich said he's disputing any change order he deems unnecessary and has kept track of those he has approved and those he has turned down; a list he will present to board members.

He's happy with the project's progress, saying much of the work completed is mechanical in nature. He also credited the buildings and grounds staff for completing a significant amount of work in-house that was outside the renovation project's scope.

"For the money that we spent we got a lot of work done," he said.

Petrovich told board members that no asbestos was found anywhere in the building, such as on roof drains, pipes or boiler equipment.

Facility concerns

Committee members expressed concern and frustration over vandalism inside Kemp Memorial Stadium and alleged misuse of facility amenities.

The home locker room was renovated over the summer, with new lockers installed and fresh paint applied.

Petrovich showed photos of the home locker room where the full names or nicknames of players, some with jersey numbers, were scrawled in black marker inside bathroom stalls.

"Their names are on the walls, so we know who's doing it," Persing said.

A toilet in the visiting locker room also had a name marked on it, which Petrovich said was subsequently cleaned off.

Photos of the toilets in the home locker room showed them backed up, perhaps intentionally, but also could have been caused by continual use - a foul sight and unsanitary situation.

District staff were required to twice clean out the backed-up toilets of human waste.

Getchey said coaches must be held accountable for the actions of their players, perhaps going as far as suspending a coach if vandalism continues.

Committee members agreed that coaches must be held responsible, as did Rick Kashner, athletic director. Some said the onus for proper behavior and respect also falls on the student-athletes, especially the juniors and seniors alleged to be involved - those who are old enough to know better.

"There has to be some responsibility put on the shoulders of these kids," Shuey said.

Shuey said a district student was cited for an unrelated act of vandalism that occurred Thursday in a junior-senior high school bathroom.

Jeff Kashner said corrective action for these types of behavior must start at home.

Getchey said the district has long been too lenient on student-athletes and that he would seek punishment for those responsible for vandalism, which includes whomever may have been responsible for breaking a press box window in the hours following a recent home game.

The three-member committee and Shuey all agreed that members of the football team should be ordered to repaint the locker room in places where the walls were marked with names.

There are also issues with the number of vehicles parked inside the stadium during district football games and youth football games, along with an alleged abuse of privilege for the public address system. Getchey said music is being blared Sunday mornings and disrupting nearby residential neighborhoods.

Getchey said stadium lights have been left on for three hours on Sundays during youth games, which he said is too long. While he's unsure of the exact cost, he said the district - despite a nominal donation from the city's youth league - foots the bill.

Petrovich suggested all coaches, those from the district and those from youth leagues, meet with the athletic committee prior to each season to review rules and regulations for facility use.

All agreed that some corrective action is basic common sense.

The following Veterans Day activities will take place in and around the area in the coming days.

Annville

The Indiantown Gap National Cemetery Memorial Council will present its 30th annual Veterans Day program at 2 p.m. Sunday, rain or shine. The program is co-sponsored by AMVETS, Department of Pennsylvania.

This will be the 12th year the program is held at the PA Veterans Memorial located at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery since its dedication in October 2001.

Major General Wesley E. Craig, the adjutant general of Pennsylvania, will present the address.

Craig graduated from Temple University in 1968 and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, serving on active duty for two years with the Army Transportation Corps. He joined the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in 1971 and graduated for the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle in 1993.

His previous assignments include commander, first squadron; 104th Armored Cavalry; commander, 56th Mechanized Infantry Brigade, including its stryker brigade combat team, and, commanding general, 28th Infantry Division, which included deployments to Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. Craig became the 51st adjutant general of Pennsylvania May 3, 2011.

The 28th Infantry Division brass quintet will provide the music. Paul Hastins, past national commander of the Marine Corps League, will service as master of ceremony.

This year's color guard is from the 28th Combat Aviation Brigade. Massing of colors will be under the direction of William Foster, sergeant-at-arms, Marine Corps League of PA.

Veterans and service organizations are encouraged to bring their organizational and national colors for the massing of colors; no side arms are needed.

General Craig and Gerald F. Hawk, AMVETS executive director, Department of Pennsylvania, will carry out the wreath presentation.

The artillery salute will be rendered by Charlie Battery, first battalion, 108th Field Artillery, PA National Guard.

Shuttle bus transportation to and from designated parking areas at Fort Indiantown Gap to the cemetery will be provided. Signs will be posted indicating designated shuttle bus and parking areas. There will be limited handicapped parking on the cemetery grounds.

Due to limited seating at the PA Veterans Memorial, lawn chairs are recommended.

For more information, contact Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at (717) 865-5254 or William J. McEllroy Jr., public affairs chairman, Indiantown Gap National Cemetery Council at (717) 228-2071.

Gowen City

St. Paul's Lutheran Church is hosting the fifth annual veterans recognition dinner Sunday to celebrate the achievement and to honor the dedication veterans gave to the country.

All veterans in East Cameron Township or who attend either of the St. Paul churches in Gowen City are encouraged to attend as well as all community veterans, their spouses, relatives and close friends.

A home-cooked dinner will be served at 3 p.m. in the church social hall. A recognition program will follow. The guest speaker will be State Rep. Kurt Masser. Masser grew up in the Pitman Valley.

Parking will be provided behind the hall and on Upper Road.

Dress is casual.

Mount Carmel

MOUNT CARMEL - The following activities are planned to mark Veterans Day in the Mount Carmel area:

- Mount Carmel Area Elementary School will hold its Veterans Day program in the high school auditorium at 9:30 a.m. today. All area veterans are invited. Meet at the auditorium at 9:15 a.m.

- Mount Carmel Area Joint Veterans Committee will holds its Veterans Day service at 11 a.m. Sunday at United Presbyterian Church, 100 E. Fifth St. Veterans attending should meet at the church at 10:45 a.m. The public is invited.

- Mount Carmel Area Joint Veterans Committee will begin its Veterans Day observance at 9 a.m. Monday at American Legion Post 91, Avenue and Maple Street. The Mount Carmel Area High School program will be held in the high school auditorium at 9:30 a.m. Services at Third and Oak streets and Second and Oak streets will be held after the program. All area veterans and the public are invited to attend.

MOUNT CARMEL - Ongoing concerns about water pressure in the east end of the borough have been heightened by the fire that damaged or destroyed six homes on the 200 block of East Second Street on Wednesday.

Six leaks were reportedly located and at least five of them fixed two weeks ago, following complaints of sporadic water pressure, but borough council Vice President Leroy "Chico" Moser said he lost all water service at his house - at the corner of Market and Seventh streets, about 5 1/2 blocks from the fire scene - while firefighters were battling Wednesday's blaze.

Moser said he's convinced there would not be enough water pressure to adequately battle two fires at different locations in the borough.

"We're kind of screwed with this nonsense going on," he said Thursday afternoon. "We never had high water pressure. I've lived here four years now, and it's never been good."

The latest concerns prompted an emergency meeting among officials from the borough and Aqua Pennsylvania, Roaring Creek Division, at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. Moser said the company will continue to monitor the situation and check for additional problems in the houses.

Clayton Hubler, Mount Carmel Rescue Squad, incident commander at Wednesday's fire, referenced a "hydrant problem" in which he said too many fire trucks were pulling water from three different hydrants in too small of an area, causing a limited water supply. He said, however, that it did not affect suppression of the fire.

Still sporadic

Joseph Kripplebauer, of 204 E. Seventh St., who presented a petition signed by 29 Seventh Street residents to council last month, and also filed a complaint with the Public Utility Commission (PUC) about the problem, said water pressure has been sporadic all week despite the leaks reportedly being fixed.

"It's a little better today, but not a whole lot," he said at 4:30 p.m. Thursday.

He said if he flushes the toilet and at the same time tries to fill a container of water from his sink, it takes at least five minutes.

He said water pressure is worse at different times of the day.

"In the late hours or early morning, you can get a decent shower," he acknowledged. "It's hit and miss, but it stays slow," he said.

Leaks fixed

Tate Hunsinger, Roaring Creek Division manager, sent an email dated Oct. 25 to borough manager Edward T. Cuff III in response to a request to attend a public meeting concerning water service in the east end of the borough. In the letter, provided to The News-Item by borough President Tony Matulewicz, Hunsinger said he was not against meeting with the borough, but he told Cuff Aqua had located a number of problems.

Their search for leaks came after The News-Item published an article from the Oct. 18 council meeting at which Kripplebauer complained.

Here's what Hunsinger reported:

- A leak in Aqua's lines at 309 W. Fifth St. and a customer leak at 212 S. Oak St. were found Oct. 22. The Fifth Street leak was fixed and the customer was notified.

- An Aqua leak at 423 Center St. and a customer leak at 206 E. Avenue were found Oct. 24. The Center Street leak was fixed and the customer on the Avenue was notified, Hunsinger said.

- On Oct. 25, an Aqua main break was discovered at the intersection of Sixth and Willow streets, and was fixed Oct. 26.

- A main break on the Locust Gap Highway in Dooleyville, near the intersection with Dooley Street, was fixed Oct. 15. It was causing low pressure on Seventh Street, he said.

"We believe that when the leak detection is complete and all the leaks fixed, this should return Seventh Street to a normal operating pressure," Hunsinger wrote to Cuff.

Hunsinger and Donna Alston, Aqua's director of communications, said Monday they have heard of no additional complaints since they addressed the leaks. They said they were aware that one of the two customers with a leak had made repairs.

The section of Mount Carmel being addressed is higher than the other sections, Hunsinger said, so whenever there's a problem, the residents living there would be the first to see a decrease in water pressure and flow.

"You would see more competition for water there," Alston said.

Moser said all residents deserve the same water service in the borough.

"I won't be letting this go," Moser said.

Firefighters concerned

Anthracite Steam and Fire Company Chief Jack Williams Jr. and several fire fighters tested the static pressure (pounds per square inch, or psi) and flow (gallons per minute) at a fire hydrant on the corner of Seventh and Market streets at 8 p.m. Oct. 24 by using one engine and a ladder truck, which is equipped with a flow meter.

The static pressure was recorded at 29 psi, and it decreased to 25 psi after water was allowed to flow to the ladder truck, but not through it, Williams said.

The initial flow pressure dropped to 9 psi when water was allowed to flow through the ladder truck, and then dropped to zero within a few seconds without increasing the pressure with the engines, he said.

The engine was idling for the duration of the test with a discharge pressure of 50 psi and the flow meter on the ladder truck showed 388 gallons per minute (gpm), he said.

The Insurance Services Office recommends 1,500 gpm to adequately fight a dwelling fire, Williams said.

If the fire truck started pumping water from the hydrant, Williams said they "would be sucking water out of toilets" from the nearby houses.

"There's not enough water to fight a fire in that section of town," he said.

When Aqua finishes their inspection of the water lines, Matulewicz said another test of the hydrant will be done.

Otherwise, he is satisfied with the direction Aqua has taken.

"They're telling us they're on it. We will let them take this course, and if it's still low pressure, we'll have to get on them," he said last week.

Matulewicz, contacted Thursday, said he hadn't talked to anyone about the issue this week, and he wasn't able to attend Thursday night's meeting.

If the situation does not improve, Moser said another meeting will be held with Aqua, but this time the residents will be invited.

There are 98 hydrants in the borough, which pays Aqua $2,156 a month for water service to them.

It only takes a small fraction of your time and minimal effort to help carry out various projects to improve the community. The following are upcoming events in need of volunteers:

Hurricane relief

Many people with local ties have lost everything in the flooding brought on by Hurricane Sandy.

Local ties

One of the many in need is the niece of a local man who lost her home, car, clothes, toys for her daughter and more. They are seeking 3t girls clothes, jackets, pajamas, extra diapers, toys etc. A stroller and pack-n-play and some toys have been collected for her daughter, but much more is needed. All donations must be received by Monday. Contact Shamokin Coal Township Community Cares Project on Facebook, email coalregionpride@yahoo.com or call 898-5229 for more information.

General collection

Stacy Huber, Loni Aiello and Devin Hartman have collected blankets, clothing, coats, baby formula, gift cards, food, money and more for general hurricane relief. They will be taking a truckload of donations to New Jersey Saturday. Once they near the damaged area, they will be escorted to several churches in the area where they will distribute items. To donate, people can contact Huber by phone at 850-7114 or message her on Facebook at Facebook.com/stacyhutnick.

Local team helps out

Eight workers from the Coal Region will be travelling to Long Island, N.Y. from Nov. 13 to 16. They will assist with cleanup efforts and bring a van load of urgently needed supplies, including flashlights, batteries, underwear, blankets, cases of water, hats, rubber gloves, cloth gloves, cleaning supplies, large garbage bags, storage tubs, diapers, toilet paper, paper towels and toiletries.

Cash donations are also needed. Checks can be made out to Mountainside Church. Gift cards also welcome.

Drop all supplies and donations at Mountainside Church, 1900 Trevorton Road, Coal Township, Monday from 1:30 to 7 p.m.

Call 847-6696 for more information.

Parishes of the Diocese of Harrisburg donate

In the wake of the devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy, the Catholic Church of the Diocese of Harrisburg will take up a special collection in all of their parishes Saturday and Sunday. Checks may be made payable to your parish with a notation in the memo line "Hurricane Sandy." The funds that will be collected for will be administered by Catholic Charities and Catholic Relief Services.

God's Chuck Wagon bus conversion

Shamokin Coal Township Community Cares Project is looking to get a few extra monetary donations to convert a bus into a mobile soup kitchen for God's Chuck Wagon so they can continue to serve food to the homeless and needy throughout the winter. Contact Matt Reidinger at 898-5229, Pastor James Bowers at 492-3902 or Janet Bowers at 274-5736. They would like to complete the project this weekend. Donations must be made by Saturday so the bus is completed and ready for Thanksgiving. If you can not make a monetary donation, please feel free to spread the word of this worthy project.

Keep the needy warm

Our Lady of Mount Carmel church hall, 47 S. Market St. (senior action center) will be giving away coats, hats, scarves and gloves to the needy from 8:30 to 1:30 p.m. Monday.

LARRC seeks volunteers

Members of Lower Anthracite Regional Recreation Committee (LARRC) are working toward constructing a recreation area near Mountain View: A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, including two soccer fields, batting cages, a walking track and a playground. The group is hoping to break ground this fall. Volunteers are needed to donate time, machines, craftsmanship and any other services. For more information, contact George Zarick at 850-3087, Jerry Waugh at 394-4327 or Coal Township manager Rob Slaby at 644-0395.

(The News-Item is looking to highlight some of the things to which you can contribute time in the area. We will provide that information weekly in Friday's edition. We invite you to submit ideas and existing projects to living@newsitem.com or give us a call.)

SUNBURY - Weis Markets has announced the launch of its second annual Believe in Heroes promotion to benefit Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), an organization that raises awareness and enlists public support for the needs of injured service members. Weis has set a goal to raise more than its inaugural $100,000 donation, made in 2011. The program will run in all 162 Weis stores through December.

"Weis customers are always incredibly generous, especially when we ask them to help us assist the men and women who've honorably served our country," said Kurt Schertle, executive vice president of Weis Markets. "We're confident that together we can make an impact for the Wounded Warrior Project and help to raise much-needed funds to support these servicemen and women for having sacrificed so much for our country."

Weis customers may contribute to the Believe in Heroes program by purchasing select products from brand names including Ore-Ida, Dannon, Gerber, Sargento and many more with the special Wounded Warrior Project label. Customers may also purchase WWP bracelets or magnets selling for $1 each, and reusable tote bags for $2.99.

Believe in Heroes calls on Americans to recognize the enormous sacrifices made by the newest generation of veterans, and to honor the service of these individuals. The campaign aims to provide the American public with an opportunity to show its support and appreciation of veterans in their communities and across the nation.

BURNSIDE - "Wow."

That was the first word out of the mouth of Richard D. Allan when asked about his first visit to the proposed Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA).

"It's amazing. Absolutely amazing," said Allan, secretary of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), after his tour - via a Hummer - Friday morning. "I've never done anything like this before and it was very exciting. I can see why it's going to be a draw for people to enjoy. This is a tourist destination."

Allan was in the area with state Sen. John Gordner (R-27) and Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107), who toured with The Hummer Club Inc.

"That was the biggest surprise to me, how well these vehicles handle this terrain," Allan said about the Hummers, noting they were at times nearly perpendicular with the ground. "That's why they come here for that enjoyment to be able to ride on such steep inclines."

Allan said he is impressed with the way that Northumberland County has planned out the AOAA, an off-road and recreational park being developed on 6,500 acres of county-owned forest and coal lands in Coal, East Cameron, Mount Carmel, West Cameron and Zerbe townships.

DCNR has been very helpful in the creation of the park, Allan said, being on board since day one.

"They've got a very good business model worked out here," he said. "We've helped them out with the initial feasibility study, but, locally, there are people that have been involved with getting this off the ground for a dozen years."

Citing the example of Rock Run Recreational Area in Clearfield and Cambria counties, Allan feels that just such a park can succeed in Northumberland County.

"The fact that Rock Run is self-sufficient shows there's a demand for that type of recreation," Allan said. "This could be just as good or better. These trails could bring out those that want a little more excitement."

Trouble acknowledged

The secretary acknowledged there has been opposition to the park. Many complaints involve those who have ridden on the land for free for decades, and will now have to pay for access. Others are concerned about hunting being restricted.

Allan, however, hopes local residents recognize the amount of work that has gone into the project.

"Everything has been very well thought-out with a lot of people involved, cross sections of the community were involved. Everything has been done the right way to do to get to this point today," he said.

He declined to comment about accusations that trails have been cut illegally, or about the issue of hunting on the land. He said those matters are for the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

One of the park's most vocal opponents, former Habitat for Wildlife president David Kaleta, Shamokin, said he had no comment about Allan's visit when contacted Friday.

Another 'Christmas surprise?'

Allan laughed and said "no comment" when asked if there was another "Christmas surprise" on the way for the park, after Northumberland County received $1.5 million in grant money from DCNR in December 2011.

Gordner echoed Allan's sentiments on the day's activities, saying how the AOAA can be a complete day out for many recreation enthusiasts.

"This facility has it all, from the Hummers plowing around, to horseback riding, mountain biking. Because of the amount of terrain and acerage, it can appeal to everyone," Gordner said. "The Hummers came today from New Jersey, New York, Virginia. Our host today talked about doing this with his 5-year old son, and he doesn't like to camp; he stays in a hotel and eats locally."

It's what AOAA officials are hoping for when the park comes to fruition.

"This administration has rethought where we invest our money for economic development. There is a lot of recreation here that we don't do in our state parks and forest lands," Allan added.

"I'm excited about the secretary's visit here and DCNR's commitment to the park," Masser said. "I'm excited about the opening of the park and getting it up and running. I've heard the concerns and the authority will be addressing those concerns. We have it here and for everyone."

The Hummer Club Inc. featured the AOAA in a two-page color article in the October 2012 issue of their club magazine, Azimuth.

Asked how close the AOAA might be to formally opening, all three state officials referred the question to the newly formed authority board.

The county last month named five people to the authority board, which begins operation in the new year.

SHAMOKIN - The Rev. Joachim Anthony Giermek, former minister general of the Order of Friars Minor Conventual, will serve as the guest speaker at 40-hour devotions Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at Mother Cabrini Church.

The devotions will begin after the 11 a.m. Mass Sunday. Giermek will preach to the congregation at 7 p.m. services Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. The Rev. Martin Kobos, pastor of Mother Cabrini Church, and the Rev. Adam Ziolkowski, parochial vicar, also will participate.

The 69-year-old friar, a native of Buffalo, N.Y., entered the Roman Catholic Order of Friars Minor Conventual (which was founded by St. Francis of Assisi in 1209) at Ellicott City, Md., in 1960.

Following liberal arts studies in Massachusetts and presbyterial ordination in Rome Dec. 23, 1969, he returned to the United States in 1970 to pursue graduate studies in philosophy at Georgetown University and Franciscan spirituality at St. Bonaventure University.

After years as a university professor and director of continuing formation, he was recalled to Rome in 1983 to represent the order's North American and English/Irish Conference.

In 2001, Giermek was elected the 118th successor of St. Francis with the title of minister general (superior general) of the order's 4,500 members, which is spread throughout 77 countries.

He traveled extensively in his role as the leader of his order. During his time in Rome as minister general, Giermek developed a relationship with Pope John Paul II.

Giermek returned to the United States in July 2007.

Following a one-year sabbatical, he began assisting regularly at the Shrine of St. Anthony in Ellicott City, Md., and the parish of St. Francis of Assisi, Fulton, Md., where the Rev. Dennis Diehl serves as pastor.

Since September 2010, he also has provided ministerial assistance at the parish of St. Louis, Clarksville, Md., where the Msgr. Joseph Luca is the pastor.

All Saints

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

Pastor - The Rev. Alfred J. Bashore.

Worship service with word and sacrament - 9 a.m.

Participants - Marsha Karnes, communion assistant and altar guild.

Assumption BVM

Assumption BVM Ukrainian Catholic Church, Paxton Street, Centralia.

Pastor - The Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko.

Confessions - Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Divine liturgy - Sunday, 11 a.m.

Augusta Baptist

Augusta Baptist Church, 1371 Boyles Run Road, Sunbury.

Pastor - Robert S. Commerford.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:15 a.m.

Evening service - 6:30 p.m.

Activities - Sunday, youth group, 6 p.m., Kids Club, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Bible study and prayer meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Augustaville Wesleyan

Augustaville Wesleyan Church, 2556 State Route 890, Paxinos.

Pastor - Greg Clendaniel.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:40 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

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

Bethany Bible Fellowship

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

Pastor - Philip Norris.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:45 a.m.

Message - "Evangelistic Mission of the Church."

Special music - Melissa Miller.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Message - "God Humbles the Proud."

Activities - Sunday, Senior Saints lunch out, 12:45 p.m., choir practice, 7:10 p.m.; Tuesday, Senior Saints fellowship, 10 a.m.; Wednesday, children's program, 6:30 p.m., adult prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m.

Bethany EC

Bethany EC Church, 1238 Market St., Ashland.

Pastor - Mark Brownson.

Sunday school, 9:15 a.m. (adults and children).

Worship service, 10:30 a.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Bethany Bible club, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., kindergarten through sixth grade, prayer meeting, weekly, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. For information, call 875-3000.

Bethel Union

Bethel Union Chapel, West Cameron Township.

Pastor - Dave Butler.

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

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m.

Special music - MaKayla Brouse.

Nursery - Kristin Knock and Kerry Segar, 10:30 a.m.

Junior church - Opal Lenig and Audrey Ditty, 10:30 a.m.

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

Activities - Monday, ladies fellowship, 6 p.m.; Tuesday, prayer worship, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, 6 p.m., King's Kids, 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, ladies Bible study, 6:30 p.m.

Calvary Bible

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

Pastor - Ferdie Madara.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship, 10:35 a.m. Praise team. Message by Pastor Madara. Children's church, AWANA children's program and youth group for grades 7 to 12, 5:45 p.m.; evening prayer service - 6 p.m.

­Christ's Reformed UCC

Christ's Reformed UCC, Helfenstein.

Pastor - Jerry Schlegel.

Worship - 10:15 a.m.

Scripture - Psalm 144: 1-11.

Message - "The Soldier's Psalm."

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

Church of Our Lady

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

Pastor - The Rev. Francis J. Karwacki.

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

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

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

Church of Nazarene

Church of the Nazarene, Route 901, Lavelle.

Sunday - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday school classes for all ages - 11 a.m.

Clark's Grove UMC

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

Pastor - Billy Frick.

Sunday school for all ages - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Fall sermon series on "Emotionally Healthy Spiritually."

Activities - Sunday, youth group for grade 6 and up. 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday, guided prayer time, 6:30 p.m., mid-week worship with studying in depth, "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality," 6:45 p.m.

Divine Redeemer

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

Pastor - The Rev. John A. Szada Jr.

Weekday Masses - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 7 a.m.; Saturday at 8 a.m.

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

Holy Day Masses - 6 p.m. eve of holy days. 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. (Holy Day).

Holy Hour - First Friday of the month, 3 to 4 p.m.

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

Novenas - Monday, Miraculous Medal novena after morning Mass; Thursday, St. Jude Thaddeus novena after morning Mass; Saturday, St. Francis novena after morning Mass.

Elysburg Alliance

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

Pastor - The Rev. Chad Froelich.

Morning worship services - 8 and 10:30 a.m. The Rev. Stan Sanger.

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

Children's church - 10:30 a.m. Ages 4 to 12.

Kids Konnection (grades pre-K to 5), 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Activities ­- Wednesday, Collide youth group, 6:45 to 8:15 p.m., Pastor Froelich; adult Bible study, prayer. 7 p.m.

Second and fourth Saturdays of the month, contemporary service, 6:30 p.m. Rev. Froelich.

Elysburg Presbyterian

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

Pastor - Matthew Young.

Sunday school for all ages, 9 a.m.

Worship service, 10:30 a.m., with nursery provided.

Pastor Young will be preaching from Hebrews 10: 19-25. Message: "Draw Near to God."

New members will be taken in.

Musicians - Debbie Cecco, organist; Eileen Reigel, pianist, and contemporary praise group.

Activities - Sunday, jr.-sr. high youth group at Veterans' Memorial, 1 p.m.; Tuesday, Hebrew Bible study, 11 a.m., deacons meeting, 6:30 p.m., Southern Columbia Gospel Choir, 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, choir practice, 6:30 p.m., bell choir practice, 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, women's prayer Ggoup, 5 p.m.; Friday, Breakfast with Jesus, 8:30 a.m., 5th Quarter, 9 p.m.

Elysburg UMC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Michelle Beissel.

Morning worship - 9 a.m., with children's Sunday school. Coffee fellowship following worship. Nursery care provided for those up to 4 years old; adult Sunday school, 10:15 a.m.

Participants - Steve Appel, head usher; Marilyn and Duane Crowl, greeters; Linda Wodzak, scripture reader; Cassidy Roadarmel, acolyte; John Romanoski, organist; Lynne Homiak, pianist; Lucy Bidelspach, shepherding; Nan Weller, choir director.

Activities - Tuesday, Circle of Prayer, 10 a.m.; Thursday, choir rehearsal, 7 p.m.

Emmanuel UMC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Betty Ford.

Coffee fellowship - 8 to 9 a.m.

Worship - 9:30 a.m., with children's Sunday school.

Activities - Tuesday and Thursday, exercise class, 6:30 p.m.; third Wednesday of the month, cookie ministry, 5 p.m.; second Saturday of the month, health screening, 8 to 10 a.m.; fourth Sunday of the month, movie night, 5 p.m.

Faith Bible

Faith Bible Church, Burnside.

Pastor - Perry Ross.

Pianist - Robert Witmer III.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Evening service - 7 p.m.

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

Faith Community Church

Pastor - Dale Hill, 751-5101.

Sunday worship - 10:30 a.m.

First Baptist, Shamokin

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

Pastor - The Rev. Samuel Derr.

Church school - 9:45 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:45 a.m.

Choir organist - Judith Pensyl.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Pianist - Redelia Shoffler.

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

First Baptist, Trevorton

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

Pastor - Dan Conklin.

Associate pastor - Andy York.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:40 a.m.

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

Activities - Sunday, youth group, 5:45 p.m., choir practice, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, AWANA, 6:30 p.m., prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m.

First Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church, Sunbury and Liberty streets, Shamokin.

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Noriene Ladd, organist; Mary Ann Stump, assistant organist; Andrew Ladd, acolyte; William Milbrand, choir director; Charlene Lesher, Terry Persing and Wendy Wary, Sunday school; Wendy Wary, secretary; William Persing Sr., sexton.

First UMC, Kulpmont

First United Methodist Church, Ninth Street, Kulpmont.

Pastor - Beverly Petrovich.

Worship - 9:30 a.m., with children's Sunday school.

Activities - Second Saturday of the month, Angels Table luncheon, 11 a.m. All welcome.

First UMC, Mt. Carmel

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

Pastor - The Rev. Susan J. Roehs.

Worship service - 9:45 a.m.

Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Sermon - "Sacrificial Living, Sacrificial Giving," by Pastor Roehs.

Participants - Sharon Styer, organist; Rick Schnee, head usher; Bob Welker, sound director; Joann Johnson, greeter; Eileen Ramage, liturgist; Jonas Bettleyon, acolyte; Pastor Susan, children's time; Rick Schnee, counter.

Activities - Tuesday, Brownie troop, 6;30 p.m., Al-Anon meeting, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 17, Annual Charge Conference with district superintendent, 12:30 p.m.

First UMC, Shamokin

First United Methodist Church, Sunbury Street, Shamokin.

Pastor - Zachary Hopple.

Adult and children's Sunday school - 9:15 a.m.

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Cookie Schlader, liturgist; Betty Edwards and Linda Pita, greeters.

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

Good Shepherd

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

Pastor - The Rev. Dana Heckman-Beil.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Grace Chapel

Grace Chapel, 126 Airport Road, Shamokin.

Pastor - Alan Langelli.

Sunday school, adult Bible study and fellowship, 9:30 a.m.; mrning worship, 10:30; evening worship, youth group and Discovery Kids, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Bible study and prayer, 6:45 p.m. Nursery provided for all Sunday services.

Participants - Judd Seger, Ray Petro, Billy Swank and Jim Zimmerman, ushers; Ed Begis, Bible reading and prayer; praise team; Cathy Klinger, music director, pianist and vocalist; Rob Klinger, drums; Marcy Donmoyer, flute; Emma Donmoyer, keyboard; Edwin Karns, Donna Blue, Diane Seger, Karen Graboski, Lori Langelli, Sandy Thomas and Ed Begis, vocalists; Robbie Spotts, sound system; Joe Long, camera, and Shawn Hine, computer system.

Upcoming events - Sunday, evening service, "Strengthening the Family," speaker, John Radke; Monday, ladies fellowship; Tuesday, business meeting; Wednesday, men's prayer breakfast; Nov. 17, Shepherd's meeting at the parsonage; Nov. 18, Harvest Home supper, 5 p.m. and Strengthening the Family, 6:30 p.m. service, speaker, Bruce Weatherly.

Grace Evangelical

Grace Evangelical Independent Church, Locustdale.

Pastor - The Rev. Rose M. Marquardt.

Sunday school, 9:45 a.m.

Worship service, 11 a.m.

Children's Sunday school, 11 a.m.

Grace Lutheran

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

Pastor - The Rev. David M. Byerly.

Sunday school, 9 a.m.

Service of the Word and Sacrament, 10:15 a.m.

Participants - Harry Deitz, worship assistant; Eric Joraskie, acolyte; John Wondoloski, crucifer; Mr. and Mrs. Terry Keefer, communion bearers; Debbie Keefer and Karena Weikel, altar care; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Deitz, greeters; Rebecca Romanic, nursery; Adam Swift Jr., Lamar Grow, Ron Kerstetter, Bruce Romanic, John Strausser and Frank Yost, ushers; Walter Boyer, organist; Charlene Pell, acting choir director and Shelley Faust, cantor.

Activities - Monday, Brownies, fellowship hall, 5 p.m.; Tuesday, Tulpehocken Pastors' Conference, 10 a.m., Joint Council, fellowship hall, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Daisies/Brownies, primary room, 6 p.m., Thursday, Living with Grief, church parlor, 10:30 a.m., Girl Scouts, fellowship hall, 7 p.m.

Grace Lutheran

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

Interim pastor - The Rev. Joan Brown.

Service with Communion, 10:45 a.m. 24th Sunday after Pentecost.

Services for Grace Lutheran will be held at St. Matthew's (Slovak) Lutheran Church, Mount Carmel, in November.

Grace UCC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Joan A. Brown.

Worship service, 9 a.m.

Sunday school, 9 a.m.

Participants - Bryan Lapinski, organist; Trevor Shuder, acolyte; Rich Mauray and Ray Rothermel, ushers.

Activities - Monday, confirmation class, 4:45 p.m., consistory meeting, 7 p.m.; Nov. 18, Harvest Home Sunday, Community Thanksgiving service at Church of Our Lady, 7 p.m..

Harvest Worship

Harvest Worship Ministries, 2079 Upper Road, West Cameron Township, 850-4280, harvestworshipministries.com

Pastor - Sandy Wary.

Sunday school, 9:30 a.m.

Worship service, 10:30 a.m.

Hidden Valley

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

Pastor - Gary L. Owens.

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

Himmel's Church

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

Pastor - Pastor Jane H. Compton.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Holy Angels

Holy Angels Church, 855 Scott St., Kulpmont.

Pastor - The Rev. Andrew Stahmer.

Confessions - Saturday, 4 to 5 p.m.

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

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

Activities - Sunday, PREP grades 6, 7 and 8, 9 a.m., veterans' memorial Mass at 8:30 a.m. Mass; Monday, PREP grades 1 to 5; Tuesday, bingo in Holy Angels Activity Center, doors open at 4:30 p.m., games begin at 6:15 p.m.; Wednesday, youth choir practice, 4:15 p.m., adult choir practice, 7 p.m.; Thursday, finance council meeting, 7:15 p.m.

Holy Trinity

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

Interim rector - The Rev. Father Kimberly Brooks.

Celebrant - The Rev. Deacon Richard A. Hazzard.

Worship - 10 a.m.

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

Hope Community Church

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

Pastor - Dan Renno.

Christian education for all ages, 9 a.m.

Fellowship time, 9:45 a.m.

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

Irish Valley UMC

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

Pastor - Beverly Petrovich.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Johnston City UMC

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

Pastor - Dan Siddle.

Worship service, 9 a.m.

Participants - Barbara Cummings and Janette Nute, greeters; Rena Keegan and Jane Klembara, acolytes; June Ramer, Rena Keegan and Janette Nute, ushers; June Ramer, Jane Klembara, Rena Keegan and Myra Golden, liturgists; Jane Klembara, musician.

Miller's Crossroads

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

Pastor - Michelle Beissel.

Worship, 9:30 a.m.; Sunday school, 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Betsy Bradigan, organist.

Ministry of the Water and Spirit

Ministry of the Water and Spirit Church, 110 Church St., Locust Gap.

Pastor - James Bowers.

Sunday Service - 10:30 a.m.

Mother Cabrini

Mother Cabrini Church, North Shamokin Street, Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Martin Kobos, O.F.M. Conv.

Parochial vicar - The Rev. Adam Ziolkowski, O.F.M. Conv.

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

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

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

Activities - Sunday, religious education classes, 10:15 a.m., Shamokin Street religious education building, eucharistic devotions begin after 11 a.m. Mass, eucharistic devotions, 7 p.m.; Monday, bingo, church hall, 6:15 p.m., eucharistic devotions, 7 p.m.; Tuesday, Feast of Mother Cabrini, closing of eucharistic services, 7 p.m., altar servers, lectors, and eucharistic ministers to meet at church at 5:45 p.m. Social with light refreshments to follow in church hall; Wednesday, RCIA at the Pauline Center, 6:30 p.m. Mother Cabrini novena continues Saturday through Monday following 8 a.m. Mass, Sunday through Saturday.

Mountainside

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

Pastor - The Rev. Richard H. Earl.

LIFEQuest breakfast for all, 9 a.m.

LIFEQuest classes for all ages, 9:30 a.m. Nursery.

Morning worship, 10:30 a.m.

Evening activities, 6 p.m.

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

Mount Zion

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

Pastor - Gerald Lloyd Jr.

Worship service, 10:30 a.m.

Scripture - Psalm 127 and Mark 12: 38-44; sermon - "Widow Gives All She Has."

Participants - Philip Maue, organist.

New Life Church

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

Interim pastor - The Rev. John D. Ashbaugh.

Sunday school, 9:30 a.m.

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

Worship service, 10:30 a.m.; junior church, nursery available. Handicap accessible, wheelchair available, church side/back entrance.

Activities - Prayer room open mornings; Saturday, prayer, fellowship and coffee. Nov. 25, Sunday evening praise and worship service, 7 p.m.

Oak Grove UMC

Oak Grove United Methodist Church, Marley Road, Overlook.

Pastor - The Rev. Zachary Hopple.

Worship, 9 a.m.

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

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

Our Lady of Fatima

Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church of the East, 110 E. Avenue and Hickory Street, Mount Carmel.

Pastor - Most Rev. Ramzi R. Musallam, Bishop.

Confessions - Before Mass and upon request.

Rosary, 2:30 p.m.

Holy Mass, 3 p.m.

Activities - Thrift shop open, Thursday, noon to 5 p.m., Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Our Lady of Hope

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

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

Daily Masses - Monday through Friday, 7 a.m., Holy Spirit chapel.

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

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

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

MILTON - The son of a Milton woman reportedly found dead in a bathroom shower at her home Sunday afternoon was released Thursday after being located and interviewed by police.

Police found Mark Boyles, 55, who has been described as a "person of interest" in the death of his mother, Vennie Boyles, 80, of 8 Park Lane, Milton, at Dunkin' Donuts on Route 15 in Lewisburg and questioned him before allowing him to leave. Police stressed that Boyles was only interviewed and never officially in police custody.

Boyles lived with his mother and his current whereabouts are unknown.

An autopsy was conducted Tuesday by Dr. Samuel Land on the victim at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown. Northumberland County Coroner James F. Kelley said Friday he is awaiting toxicology results and findings from other tests before revealing the cause and manner of the woman's death.

Kelley continues to assist Milton police, state police at Milton and the Northumberland County District Attorney's Office in the investigation.

What to give and where

A suggested list of donations compiled from online sources and volunteers: cash, gas cards, gift cards, gasoline, blankets, bottled water, food, flashlights, batteries of all sizes, cleaning supplies, brooms, rakes, large garbage bags, storage tubs, buckets, diapers and other baby items, toilet paper, paper towels, toiletries, first aid supplies, pet supplies, rubber and cloth gloves, tarps, wet wipes.

American Red Cross is also seeking blood donations along with cash.

Local donation drives will be held at:

- Mountainside Assembly of God, Trevorton Road, Coal Township, 1:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday;

- Former Cornerstone building, 22 E. Fourth St., Mount Carmel, noon to 3 p.m. today, 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday;

- Beiter's Home Center parking lot, North Fourth Street, Sunbury, noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, where winter clothing is also being collected.

MAHANOY CITY - A Girardville man died when the pickup truck he was driving crashed on I-81 sometime late Thursday or early Friday.

James Kelly, 70, of Duck Street, was pronounced dead at the scene at 7:45 a.m. Friday by Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner Andrew Szczlglak, Shenandoah. Szczlglak said an autopsy will be performed at 8 a.m. today at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest to determine how Kelly died.

State police Trooper Vincent Laselva of the Schuylkill Haven station said the crash occurred between 7:30 p.m. Thursday and 6:40 a.m. Friday in the southbound lanes of the interstate near mile marker 130 in Mahanoy Township.

Laselva said Kelly was driving a 2001 Ford Ranger south when he went off the highway into a construction zone.

The truck struck a generator and then a bridge abutment, causing it to become airborne and travel over the side of the bridge, Laselva said.

The truck then spun clockwise in the air and came to a stop facing west with its left front tire resting on the bridge, the trooper said.

Kelly's body was found about 50 feet down an embankment alongside a concrete bridge pillar off the Burma Road that goes under the interstate, Laselva said.

Mahanoy City EMS was initially called to the scene initially for a report of a man in cardiac arrest, but later learned Kelly was the victim of the crash.

Personnel at the scene said Kelly's body was discovered by a construction worker who reported for work at the site Friday morning.

The pickup truck hung with the tire on the bridge and back bumper embedded in the dirt of the embankment that connects I-81 and Burma Road.

Assisting Laselva at the scene were state police troopers from the Frackville station.

SHAMOKIN - Three donation collections will be held this weekend to assist victims of Hurricane Sandy in New York and New Jersey.

In two cases, the collections were spurred by local residents with ties to the East Coast states. In the third, it's a follow-up effort to a similar collection and delivery from earlier this week.

Money and goods will be collected from 1:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Mountainside Assembly of God Church along Trevorton Road, Coal Township, with donations to be delivered to residents of Long Island, N.Y.

A collection will be held from noon to 3 p.m. today and 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at 22 E. Fourth St., Mount Carmel, with donations going to Ship Bottom, N.J., and surrounding areas.

There also is a collection from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday at the Beiter's Home Center parking lot on North Fourth Street in Sunbury, with donations going to Gerritsen Beach, Brooklyn, N.Y.

Mountainside's pastor, Rich Earl, was raised in Long Island's Valley Stream.

He hasn't yet visited his hometown since Hurricane Sandy made landfall in the Mid-Atlantic nearly two weeks ago, but has heard from friends and relatives about the devastation.

"The biggest thing is they can't get gas and they don't have electricity, which means they don't have heat," Earl said Friday.

When Earl and others deliver donations to Long Island, he said it will be in an area where one mile inland, water rose as high as 12 feet. Homes and cars are destroyed, and clean places to stay are at a minimum.

"They can't just shack up with a friend or make plans. There's no place for people to stay," he said.

"They're very tapped into the grid and very dependent for everything to work normally. They don't have water, they don't have anything," he said.

Grateful

Michelle Suhovsky, of Sunbury, had just returned home Friday afternoon after she and several others made a three-plus day relief mission to Gerritsen Beach in Brooklyn.

She was a part of a group of citizens from the Sunbury area who worked together to collect donations last weekend. The community heeded their call, with businesses and citizens donating gasoline, clothing, cleaning supplies and more - four carloads worth of items that Suhovsky and company delivered this week.

"I can't tell you how grateful the people of Gerritsen Beach were. They were hugging us and in tears," she said.

As a resident of Sunbury, Suhovsky recalled instances when the Susquehanna River flooded her town. She and others who shared that experience felt compelled to help the New Yorkers whose own towns suffered mass amounts of damage to property and infrastructure.

The town of about 10,000 people is working class, she said. When evacuations of communities in New York City were ordered, Gerritsen Beach was not among them.

The aftermath, as Suhovsky and online news accounts have described, is nothing short of devastating.

"The entirety of the bay area of the city is completely demolished," she said. "Every single solitary car was destroyed.

"I have never in my life seen anything like it," she continued. "It looks like a little kid got mad and threw his Matchboxes around. It's the most amazing thing I ever saw. Their cars are everywhere."

Suhovsky and fellow volunteers left for New York in the early morning hours Tuesday and spent much time assisting residents remove flood-ravaged debris from their homes, everything from tossing away carpet and furniture to ripping out damaged drywall to prevent mold from growing. Even in the current climate where snow is falling and temperatures have dropped, she said mold has oddly managed to spread.

The Sunbury group lived in the community during their stay, experiencing the suffering the citizens have endured - no electricity, rationing of gasoline, no clean drinking water, no heat.

People are freezing, Suhovsky said, and they're hungry for a warm meal.

Of potential donations local residents can make, she said, "In all honesty, as much gas as any human being can give because they're trying to live off generators."

The Sunbury group is planning to return to the Gerritsen Beach area Thursday with all supplies collected locally Sunday.

She mentioned that there is a group of volunteer firefighters from Northumberland County, including Shamokin and Sunbury, who are now in Gerritsen Beach volunteering at the community's fire department. They're doing so, she said, to allow that community's volunteers - the only volunteer firefighters in Brooklyn - a chance to take care of their own homes.

Living faith

Barbara Rizzo, of Atlas, is a New Jersey native. She grew up going to Wildwood Beach and Long Beach Island, and has an aunt living in Egg Harbor, N.J.

Moved to help the area she once called home, she and friend Helene Tomedi, of Wilburton, organized a donation drive.

"We both believe in living out our faith and that of course means loving our neighbors and taking care of others," Tomedi said.

"We'll take whatever we can," Rizzo said of donations.

Whatever is collected at the Mount Carmel collection will be delivered late next week to Ship Bottom, N.J., and surrounding areas, Rizzo said.

MOUNT CARMEL - It's only a small truck-load, but it will go a long way to help others affected by a recent disaster, thanks to the concern of a borough woman and members of an organization for which she serves as a color guard.

The non-perishible food, toiletries and other necessities are on the way to the East Coast today as the result of a humanitarian effort by Mary Snyder, of 219 S. Beech St., and members of the Catholic Daughters of America Court 588 of Mount Carmel, an organization dedicated to helping others in a time of need.

The impulse to provide needed supplies to victims of the flood-stricken area along the East Coast came to Snyder when she visited a relative in an area hospital this week. In a conversation with a tearful nurse's aide whose own relative is one of the many victims of the floods, rain and high winds of Hurricane Sandy, Snyder heard a first-hand account of the devastation.

Thousands were left homeless and without electrical power in the aftermath of the superstorm, dubbed the worst in America' history.

"I just couldn't stop thinking that I wanted to do something," Snyder said while sorting through a large number of donated items on the sidewalk in front of her home.

The Mount Carmel woman said her compassion intensified on the way home from the hospital.

"'OK God,' I said, 'I'm ready to go to work,'" Snyder recalled.

Deciding to collect food and other necessities for the victims, she contacted members of the Catholic Daughter of America to enlist their help.

"It spread like wildfire," she declared. With the assistance of Judy Hooper, vice president, and other members of the CDA, along with friends, neighbors and other residents of Mount Carmel, a consolidated effort was launched. The response was instantaneous. Within 24 hours, the number of items collected was sufficient to fill a pickup truck beyond capacity.

On Friday morning, the front sidewalk at Snyder's home looked like a small grocery store after many residents of the community dropped off donations augmenting the collecting my CDA members.

"It was worth the effort," she commented, expressing thanks and appreciation to everyone who participated. "It shows our community will respond to help others when there is a need."

The truck-load of supplies will be taken to a distribution center in New York or New Jersey.

Sonya Hamulla would have been the most surprised of all to find herself as the subject of a spiritual column on the religion page. Sadly, this column could only be written after her death last week at the relatively young age of 59.

Frankly, I may have been a bit leery about writing this a month or two ago. Part of the reason was the fact she was one, tough lady. The other part was that she didn't let many people know she was also a tender lady.

The toughness was a necessary part of her job as a special education/learning support teacher who dealt with some of the toughest students at Mount Carmel Area and the other schools where she worked before returning to her alma mater.

Sonya was more than a match for even the worst of the students, who usually had learning disabilities in addition to emotional problems. She would speak to them in their own language - no matter how rough that language got. She let her students get away with very little.

But Sonya's tender side was rarely revealed. Some of her students came from the worst possible home environment. For some, she was the closest they would get to having a mother. She was not above quietly slipping needy students some much-needed cash.

What Sonya meant to her students was revealed in her final illness. Some went to visit her in the hospital. One, who had a problem reputation before becoming one of her students, helped feed her and spent quiet hours with her.

Seeking a fitting analogy for Sonya, the geode came to mind. A geode is mineral matter deposited within rock formations. The outer shell is often hard and rough, while the mineral formation within is something of breathtaking beauty.

In Sonya Hamulla's life, her rare inner beauty was glimpsed only by relatively few students, colleagues, friends and family members.

Now, the beauty of her soul is fully revealed.

+++

Trevorton Senior Adult Ministry

TREVORTON - The Trevorton Senior Adult Ministry met at St. Patrick Church hall Oct. 15 for its monthly meeting and Octoberfest covered dish social. There were 29 members present.

The meeting opened with the senior adult ministry prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Prayer before the meal of foods and desserts was given by Robert Sager in thanks to all who contributed to the vast variety of covered dishes.

After the meal, the regular meeting continued with the treasurer's report given by Mary Ellen Hoffman, approved as read, and the secretary's report by Edwina Savidge, also approved as read.

The group's October birthday celebrants include Kenneth Gurba, Faye Herb, Ruth Klock, Barbara Leah, JoAnn Pitfido, Mary Ryan and Joyce Thomas. Birthday donations were offered by Ben and Celeste Blascovich, Dixie Heath, Anita Lagerman, Naomi Mielke, Teena and Jim Blessing and Faye Herb. A greeting card was sent to Mielke.

The Dec. 17 meeting, which is also the Christmas banquet, will be catered by Hannah's Restaurant in Trevorton. The meal will consist of roast pork and all the trimmings, plus coffee and dessert. The cost of the dinner for registered members is $13. A sign-up sheet will be available at the November meeting. Contact Rose Marie at 648-3035 for further information.

The 50/25/25 winners were Lavon Swank and Kay McBride. A thank you was offered to everyone present that contributed to the Octoberfest's foods and desserts.

The next regular meeting will be held Nov. 19. Everyone is encouraged to bring friends and neighbors to join the senior ministry group.

After the meeting was adjourned, cards and bingo were played.

Applebee's offering free lunches

Applebee's in Selinsgrove and Bloomsburg are among those participating in the chain restaurant's annual promotion to thank veterans and active-duty military personnel with a free meal on Veterans Day.

The free meal is available from 11 a.m. to closing time Sunday.

This is the fourth year of Thank You Movement, which gives Applebee's "the chance to treat veterans and active duty military from across generations with great food, as they share stories from their time serving our country," the company reports.

Last year, Applebee's restaurants nationwide served more than one million meals.

Judges' offices closed

MOUNT CARMEL - The offices of Magisterial District Judges Hugh Jones in Mount Carmel and John Gembic III in Shamokin will be closed Monday in observance of Veterans Day.

LEWISBURG - The Bucknell University Concert Chorale will present its annual fall concert at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18, in the Weis Center for the Performing Arts at Bucknell.

The concert, which is free and open to the public, is conducted by William Payn, professor of music at Bucknell, with David Cover as accompanist.

"Celebrations" includes a selection of works in honor of life and good health, commitment, human discovery and fulfillment, the Nativity and American tradition.

The program begins with two works by Franz Schubert: "An die Sonne (To the Sun)," with poetry by Johann Peter Uz, and "Der Tanz (The Dance)," with poetry by Kolumban Schnitzer von Meerau. The chorale will then perform Daniel Pinkham's "Wedding Cantata," a four-movement work that features the exotic, sensual poetry from "Song of Songs."

In celebration of The Nativity, the chorale will perform "Lux Aurumque," by Eric Whitacre, with poetry by Edward Esch; "Ave Maria," by Franz Biebl, sung by the men of the Concert Chorale and the Rooke Chapel Choir, and "O Magnum Mysterium," by Morten Lauridsen. Poetry by Walt Whitman is part of the work celebrating human discovery in "Toward the Unknown Region," by Ralph Vaughan Williams.

The concert will close with a selection of works celebrating the American tradition, beginning with "Leander," from Southern Harmony by William Duckworth, professor of music at Bucknell for 38 years and an internationally renowned composer/teacher.

"This piece is being sung to commemorate and honor his Bucknell work and his impressive achievements world-wide," said Payn, of his colleague Duckworth who died earlier this year.

The Duckworth piece will be followed by the early American folk song "O Shenandoah," and three traditional African-American spirituals - "I'm Goin' Home on a Cloud," "In Dat Great Gittin' Up Mornin'" and "Elijah Rock."

The Bucknell University Concert Chorale is a mixed chorus of students from various fields of study at Bucknell. Formed in 1964 by Allen Flock, the chorale presents annual programs of secular and sacred music. In addition to its public concerts on campus, the ensemble has traveled extensively throughout the United States.

In recent years, the ensemble has sung with the Washington National Symphony Orchestra, the Chorale of Simon Bolivar of Caracas, the Pennsylvania Ballet, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and for the Music Educators' National Conference in Atlantic City.

The next Bucknell performance will take place at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 7, 2013.

SUNBURY - Four veterans charged with breaking the law made amends - and history - by becoming the first graduates of the Northumberland County Veterans Treatment Court.

Charles Oushick, 64, of Mount Carmel; Jason McGinn, 33, of Shamokin; Chuck Lloyd, 45, of Coal Township; and Roy Snyder, 40, of Shamokin Dam, formerly of Mount Carmel, completed a rigorous one-year treatment court presided over by Northumberland County Judge Charles H. Saylor in cooperation with county treatment court coordinator Noel Jones and other members of the veterans treatment court team.

A 35-minute ceremony Friday morning at the courthouse featured an inspirational talk by award-winning veterans advocate and writer John Deppen, Northumberland, and the presentation of certificates and commemorative coins to the graduates. On the front of the coins were logos from the five military branches, while the back contained the message, "Leave no veteran behind. Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right."

'Tunnel rat'

Ouschick, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1969 to 1971 and was an 18-year member of the U.S. Army Reserves, spoke to The News-Item after the program.

The Mount Carmel resident, who retired in 2008 after serving 28 years as a heavy equipment mechanic at Fort Indiantown Gap, stated, "I was a tunnel rat during the Vietnam War. I also ran recognizance missions and served as an Amtrak driver. It was tough over there in Vietnam."

He said he took a couple years off after his Marine service before joining the U.S. Army Reserves in Schuylkill Haven, where he was a member of the 6-68th Armor.

Born and raised in Frackville, Ouschick said he was proud to be part of the first veterans treatment court class.

"We really had to earn our way here by completing the program," he said. "You had to abide by all the requirements set forth by the court and stay out of trouble."

Oushick, who said suffers from a nervous condition and stress from serving in Vietnam and still gets flashbacks from the war, said he was arrested a few years ago for "punching a cop" in Mount Carmel while he had been drinking. "I just snapped out and I spent a week in Northumberland County Prison," he said.

During the ceremony, Oushick and the other three veterans said they were grateful for the assistance they received during the treatment court, which helped turned their lives around in a positive direction.

McGinn and Snyder, who served in the U.S. Army, and Lloyd, a U.S. Air Force veteran, are employed at local businesses.

Model for state

Deppen said the veterans treatment court started 13 months ago.

"We should be proud of what this court and these veterans have accomplished. And these veterans should be proud of themselves. Everyone makes regrettable choices and this was no easy program to complete," he said.

He commended the graduates and veterans treatment court team, and especially praised Saylor for his firmness and fairness in leading the court.

Deppen, who is employed by the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, said the veterans treatment court, which is operated at no cost to the county, will one day serve as a model for other treatment courts in the state. Only 13 counties have a special treatment court for veterans.

"Veterans have paid the price and are continuing to suffer after returning from combat and facing many issues, including being homeless and contemplating suicide," he said.

Deppen said there have been more suicides by veterans in 2012 than combat fatalities suffered in Afghanistan.

He said there are approximately one million veterans living in Pennsylvania, the fifth highest population of veterans in the nation. There are slightly less than 9,000 veterans in Northumberland County, approximately 10 percent of the county's total population.

The court demands accountability of all veterans who participate, while at the same time recognizing that many factors influencing their behavior.

"We need more initiatives like veterans treatment court and we must all do our part by making sure no veteran is left behind. That's our mission statement and the mission is ongoing," Deppen concluded.

Special consideration

Saylor, who presented a welcoming and closing address, said veterans must attend weekly court sessions and abide by the conditions of their probation while being monitored. The court helps veterans who have broken the law become goal oriented and productive members of society, he said.

The judge noted veterans have a high risk of becoming involved in the criminal justice system because of the dangers and illnesses they encounter from serving their country.

"They deserve special consideration as they adapt to civilian life after fighting for our freedoms," he said.

Ted Andrewlevich of Sunbury, a Mount Carmel native and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, sang a splendid rendition of the national anthem.

The costs of the graduation ceremony were covered by a donation from Mount Carmel Veterans of Foreign Wars, and grant funds.

Many help court

Members of the veterans treatment court team include Saylor, Jones, Deppen, President Judge Robert B. Sacavage, Attorney Erin E. Odell, veteran outreach coordinator Kimberly Sapolis, Assistant District Attorney Melissa Norton, Public Defender Paige Rosini, adult probation treatment court supervisor Michael Barvitskie, adult probation veterans court officer Marc Weir, county veteran affairs director Belinda Albright, county director of drug and alcohol Glenda Bonetti, and Attorney Michael Balducci, who serves as mentor coordinator.

Also assisting are Judge William H. Wiest; Karen Blackburn, program administrator for the problem solving courts program under the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts; April J. Billet-Barclay, assistant problem solving court administrator; Congressman Tom Marino, and state Reps. Kurt Masser (R-107) and Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-108).

Veteran treatment court mentors are Jim Kealy, Phil Rosko and Stacy Stancavage, all of Mount Carmel, Paul Leshinskie, of Coal Township, and Buzz Meachum, of Sunbury.

Marriage license

Eric R. McAndrew and Kaitlyn M. Schauer, both of 1241 Poplar St., Kulpmont. To be issued Nov. 12.

Divorces

Sharon M. Carl from Mark D. Carl, both of 1046 W. Willow St., Coal Township. Married June 21, 1986.

Garth R. Watson, 144 McEwensville Road, Watsontown, from Shannon L. Watson, 1241 Memorial Ave., Williamsport. Married Aug. 6, 2005.

Tracie L. Ebert, 1982 George St., P.O. Box 201, Dalmatia, from Joseph A. Ebert, 493 Second St., Highspire. Married May 15, 2004.

Andrea Deitrick Taylor, 94 BSB, 2050 Glory Loop, Box 1607, Fort Polk, La., from Dakota Lee Taylor, 1210 Cherry St., Paxinos. Married Jan. 6, 2009.

Property transfers

James R. Inch Sr. to Jeremiah D. Schreffler, property in Jackson Township, $1.

Ronald L. Chamberlain and Eileen K. Chamberlain to John C. Witkowski and Jean M. Witkowski, property in Shamokin, $4,000.

Lenette Corona, Lenette Corona-Schoffler, Gregory J. Corona-Schoffler and Joshua Corona to Cynthia Madden, property in Mount Carmel Township, $1.

Joseph B. Martin to JP Realty Enterprises LLC, property in Kulpmont, $23,000.

Mary R. Kovach estate and executrix Susan Petro to JP Realty Enterprises LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $15,500.

Mary C. Pochekailo, Joyce A. Sickora, Joseph Sickora, Gerald Malasheskie and Phyllis Malasheskie to Claude W. Raudenbush and Sharon L. Raudenbush, property in Shamokin, $16,000.

John L. aka John Beck (by agent) and agent Barbara Matteller to Robert J. Beck and Traci Y. Beck, property in Coal Township, $6,000.

Allen J. Cwalina to Vanessa Marie Dudeck, property in Shamokin, $23,000.

Vincent Bianchi, John Bianchi and Catherine Weiser to Ronda Pollock, property in Mount Carmel, $23,000.

Sophie's World LLC and Triple D Properties LLC to Zeuss Rentals LLC, property in Shamokin, $40,000.

Kevin L. Moyer and Judith L. Moyer to MME Real Estate Holdings LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $22,000.

Carolyn aka Caroline E. Schcchitano (by agent) and agent Dianne B. Adzema to Michael Habowski, property in Mount Carmel Township, $11,500.

Michael T. Karlovich to Michael T. Karlovich and Jennifer D. Karlovich, property in Shamokin Township, $1.

Carol Ann Sebastian, Melissa A. Katch, Melissa A. Sebastian and Kevin A. Katch to Corey Yeager and Marisa Betz, property in Mount Carmel, $44,000.

BWH Properties LLC to Paul Oprea, property of Mount Carmel, $2,808.

Jennifer Catherine Orr to Paul J. Gadomski and Lois A. Gadomski, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Jeffrey W. Appel, Jill L. Appel, David R. Appel and Denise Appel to Herbert Wayne Knoebel and Louella M. Knoebel, property in Ralpho Township, $155,000.

Robert S. Pancher and Michelle L. Pancher to Robert F. Pesarchick and Pamela L. Pesarchick, property in Shamokin, $1.

James M. McElwee and Kathleen McElwee to James M. McElwee and Kathleen McElwee, property in Coal Township, $1.

Fawn E. Dorkoski to Kip Darrell Dorkoski, property in Coal Township, $1.

Carl J. Froutz III and Nancy A. Froutz to Carl J. Froutz III and Nancy A. Froutz, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Rose Marie Latsha estate and Anthony T. Curran (individually and administrator) to David T. Reed, property in Shamokin, $92,500.

Edward A. Baluta, Joseph A. aka Joseph D. Winhofer and Sandra A. Winhofer to Stephen J. Matzura and Martha K. Matzura, property in Mount Carmel, $10,000.

Doris L. Brosius estate, Doris L. Newman estate and executrix Loretta M. Botts to Vernon E. Zerby, property in Little Mahanoy Township, $1.

Marian Kozak to Joan P. Dershem, property in Ralpho Township, $1.

William D. Marquardt and Michelle R. Marquardt to the Federal National Mortgage Association, property of Mount Carmel.

James L. Haupt and Naomi B. Haupt, to Wilford J. Haupt, properties in Shamokin Township and Rockefeller Township, $1.

Jessica A. Sherman, Jessica A. Deimler, Russell W. Deimler Jr. and Kenneth Vincent Bogutskie to Jessica A. Deimler and Russell W. Deimler Jr., property in Coal Township.

Ahmad F. Wardeh and Mouna A. Wardeh to Jenna M. Sejuit, property in Ralpho Township, $225,000.

Christopher A. Yucha and Carolyn A. Yucha to Michael P. Dembrosky and Sharon A. Scott, property in Mount Carmel, $26,000.

George E. Hoy and Patricia A. Hoy to Walter A. Schindler, property in Ralpho Township, $114,900.

Jesse L. Weaver and Maureen P. Weaver to Jared R. Bingaman, property in Coal Township, $170,000.