RANSHAW - The dedication of a new pavilion at the Ranshaw Civic Association (RCA) grounds Thursday evening marked two years of hard work by volunteers of the decades-old organization.

The Rev. Martin Kobos, pastor of Mother Cabrini Church, blessed the 31-by-35 foot structure, built with white ornate columns and stained yellow pine wood. It was dedicated in honor of 63-year Ranshaw resident Margaret Madden, 89, and her late husband, Albert.

Jim Madden, a son of Albert and Margaret, donated the materials. Members and non-members of RCA rolled up their sleeves and built the structure in just over a month.

"We had 20 some people of different specialties working here," said RCA president Mike Demsko. "I am so proud of these people and what they did here."

Demsko, who succeeded the late LaRue Beck as president of the organization in 2012, said it took just five days to erect the columns and the roof, which sit on a large concrete foundation.

The pavilion will be used for the first time today, when the Mother Cabrini Church, Shamokin, holds its 19th annual parish picnic, which runs from 5 to 10 p.m. today and 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Jim Madden and his siblings, Al, Mike, Barb Shamansky and Kathy Lane, donated a bronze plaque, which will be placed on the structure at a later time. It reads: "In grateful appreciation for showing us how to work, be kind and celebrate family."

"I am glad that they did this. It's a big improvement since they first took over," Margaret Madden said. "They did a lot of work and the guys really worked hard."

Greatly improved

The recreation area has been dramatically improved since the RCA reorganized in 2012. Adding to the beauty of the grounds were the addition of vintage light posts and 35 new benches and picnic tables and the complete renovation of a bathroom.

Future plans for the grounds include tearing down a deteriorating pavilion, finishing an electrical upgrade and replacing a shed, Demsko said.

He thanked the Madden family, Brady Fire Company, ID Builders Inc., which made a donation for the electrical upgrade, and the many volunteers who either donated time or money to improve the grounds.

CATAWISSA R.R. - Faculty and staff at Southern Columbia Area School District became emotional when officers from Catawissa Borough, Locust Township, Montour Township and Ralpho Township police departments swept the buildings and shot blanks as part of an active shooter demonstration and training session Thursday morning.

The session, which was the first of its kind held at Southern Columbia Area School District, allowed the administration to learn how to improve its lockdown procedure while school employees and police officers practiced securing the buildings.

As part of the training, officers fired blanks in various locations of the Southern Columbia Area Junior Senior High School so employees could learn to recognize and react to the sound of gunfire.

The day began with Locust Township Police Chief Allen Breach presenting information on active shooting procedures in the high school auditorium.

After breaking into groups and listening from various parts of the building while officers fired blanks, the faulty and staff participated in the demonstration.

Taken hostage

Jerry Michel, who was at the demonstration as a representative from the Officer Store in Coatesville and who previously served in the military, acted as an intruder. He pulled out a gun in a classroom in the high school, taking a teacher hostage and forcing her to lead him to his "daughter," whom he said was in gym class.

Police officers responded, quickly sweeping the building and "shooting" Michel in the hallway in front of the gym.

The teacher who had been taken hostage was visibly upset. She tried to return to the classroom where her coworkers were in lockdown, but they refused to open the door.

Breach commended the teachers for following protocol by awaiting official word from police to leave their hiding places.

Follow procedure

In the presentation prior to the drill, Breach emphasized the importance of following lockdown procedure. He presented information from the FBI that said the duration of the average shooting is 12 minutes; 37 percent last less than five minutes.

Because it might take longer than 15 minutes for local law enforcement to be alerted, travel to the school and find the perpetrator, faculty and staff need to be prepared to protect students, said Breach.

The district conducted lockdown drills before, but Southern Columbia Area School District Superintendent Paul Caputo said asking local law enforcement to provide additional training is helpful to his staff.

"It's important to renew school safety policies," said Caputo. "Schools often practice fire drills. It makes sense to introduce this to the schools."

Caputo said Thursday was scheduled as a teacher in-service day. He permitted teachers to opt-out if they felt uncomfortable, but none did.

Some staff members said they were concerned about being alone during the drill, so Caputo gathered them into small groups.

Even so, many were shaken.

"When you heard those first gun shots, even though you know it's a drill, it gets your heart racing," said Angela Farranato, the Southern Columbia Area Middle School principal.

An additional lockdown drill was held at the elementary school, where Michel burst into the presentation to fire blanks and startling faculty members. A discussion on procedures that allowed police responders to best capture the intruder was held afterward.

Breach said he plans to hold additional training sessions for local law enforcement, possibly in August.

KULPMONT - The third annual Great Kulpmont Cruise is set for Sunday, June 22.

If the weather cooperates, more than 200 vehicles will cruise through the borough along Route 61.

Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Holy Angels Church picnic grounds. Judging of vehicles will take place from 12:30 until 3 p.m.

At the picnic grounds, food will be available, and entertainment will be provided by a DJ, who will play 50s and 60s favorites. Plaques will be given to all participants, and there will be door prizes.

The grand marshals of this year's parade will be Mount Carmel Area High School greats. The Kulpmont Cruise Association will honor the girls basketball team, which won the District 4 championship; band members, who made district band; the Odyssey of the Mind team, which represented the local area at a national competition in Iowa, and the valedictorian and salutatorian of Mount Carmel Area's Class of 2014.

Members of the boys and girls track teams who placed in the district and state meets are to be at the Holy Angels picnic grounds by 2:30 p.m.

The Mount Carmel Area TV station WKMC, under the direction Dave McFee, will televise the cruise and interviews with vehicle owners at a later date to be announced.

Spectators are asked not to spray water onto the cruise route to encourage burnouts, which are dangerous for spectators and the other cruisers.

Cruisers come from all areas of northeastern Pennsylvania and parts of New Jersey, New York and Delaware.

In addition to the cruise, the Kulpmont Cruise Association sponsors Mahoney Brothers concerts to raise money for local youth programs, the Lions Club and a Christmas party for the disadvantaged. Money is also given to Holy Angels Church for the use of the picnic grounds. The association has also used money from the cruise and concerts to purchase items and continue maintenance for the Kulpmont playground.

For more information, call Joe Cesari 570-373-3561. Cruise shirts will be available for purchase at the Kulpmont Fuel On.

Bible school planned at Himmel's

DORNSIFE - Himmel's Church will have Bible school from 6 to 8 p.m. June 16 to 20. The theme is "Wilderness Escape - Where God Guides and Provides." Children ages preschool to fifth grade will camp-out with Moses and the Israelites from Monday to Thursday. On Friday, there will be a family picnic held in the church grove.

All children are invited to come join the fun. For more information, contact Coordinator Heather Feese at 570-758-4411.

Railroad crossing work planned

MONTOURSVILLE - The Shamokin Valley Railroad plans to replace the crossing on Route 2007 (Short Road) in Deibler in Shamokin Township starting Monday, June 23.

The railroad's contractor, Finkbeiner & Associates, will remove the existing rail seal and asphalt at-grade crossing and replace it with a new concrete surface.

A detour, using Route 4012 (Olive Road) and Route 2010 (Shamrock Road), will be in place during the project, which is expected to be completed by Thursday, June 26.

Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 680 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available by calling 5-1-1, and regional Twitter alerts are available on the 511PA website.

All Saints

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

Pastor - The Rev. Alfred J. Bashore.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Participants - Richard Kovach, lector; Marsha Karnes, altar guild; Marsha Karnes or Richard Kovach, communion assistant.

The church will be closed June 15, 22 and 29 for vacation.

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.; fourth Thursday of the month, L.I.F.E. for seniors age 55 and up, noon.

Augustaville Wesleyan

Augustaville Wesleyan Church, 2556 State Route 890, Paxinos.

Pastor - Greg Clendaniel.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, adult Bible study, children's ministry and youth Bible bowl, 7 p.m.

Bethany Bible

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

Pastor - Philip Norris.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:45 a.m. Recognition of fathers.

Message - "Are You Growing?"

Activities - Wednesday, children and youth programs and adult prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m.; June 29, Concert by the New Dawn Singers, 10:45 a.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.; free clothing closet, every first and third Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Bethel Union

Bethel Union Chapel, West Cameron Township.

Pastor - Dave Butler.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m. for all ages.

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m. with junior church.

Special music - Bethel choir.

Participants - Ruth Butler and Tami DeGennoro.

Evening worship ­- 6 p.m.

Activities - Tuesday, prayer worship, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, 6 p.m.

Calvary Bible

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

Pastor - Ferdie Madara.

Sunday school for all ages - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship service - 10:35 a.m., with praise team and message by Pastor Madara. Coal Township High Rise service - 2 p.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m. Missionary Dan Davies will be speaking.

Church of Our Lady

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

Pastor - The Rev. Francis J. Karwacki.

Deacon - The Rev. Mr. Martin McCarthy.

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

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

Holy days of obligation - 6:30 p.m. on the eve, 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. on the holy day.

Confessions - Daily 7:30 to 7:55 a.m. including Saturday or any time by appointment; Saturday, 3 to 3:50 p.m.

Church of the Nazarene

Church of the Nazarene, Route 901, Lavelle.

Pastor - Jeremy Smallwood.

Sunday school classes for all ages - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:45 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 - 10:10 a.m.

Youth service - 6:30 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, prayer and Bible study, 6:30 p.m.

Divine Redeemer

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

Administrator - The Rev. Martin O. Moran III.

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

Confessions - Saturday, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.; after morning novena Wednesday, or any time by appointment.

Novenas - Monday, Miraculous Medal novena after morning Mass; Wednesday, 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. Andrew Knisely.

Service - 8 and 10:30 a.m. Pastor Knisely.

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

Activities - Wednesday, Collide youth group for grades 6 to 12, 6:45 to 8:15 p.m. Basic Elements VBS, July 20 to 24, 6 to 8 p.m.

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. Nursery provided.

Guest speaker - The Rev. Richard Kellett.

Message - "God As Our Father."

Scripture - John 14:8-17.

Musicians - Debbie Cecco, organist; Eileen Reigel, pianist.

Activities - Sunday, Lifetree Cafe, "Does God Play Favorites," 7 p.m.; Tuesday, trustees meeting, 7 p.m.; Friday, Breakfast with Jesus Bible study, 8:30 a.m.; June 21, work camp group returns; July 13 to 15, community vacation Bible school, "Avalanche Ranch."

Elysburg UMC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Michelle Beissel.

Morning worship - 8:30 a.m. Coffee fellowship to follow.

Adult Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

Participants - Tom Wodzak, head usher; Dick and Carol Swank, greeters; Carole Swank, scripture reader; Cooper Rouse, acolyte; Olivia Bodner, organist; Joyce Rumberger, shepherding.

Activities - Wednesday, prayer circle, 10 a.m., UMW, 10:30 a.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 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, 570-751-5101.

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, 1 p.m., prayer, praise and testimony and Bible study, 7 p.m.

First Baptist, Trevorton

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

Pastor - Dan Conklin.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:40 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Sunday, choir practice, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, 7 p.m.

­First Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church, Sunbury and Liberty streets, Shamokin.

Minister - The Rev. Jim Phillips.

Worship - 10:30 a.m., with holy communion.

Participants - Bill Persing and Morris Gard, ushers/greeters; Noriene Ladd, organist; Mary Anne Stump, assistant organist; Andrew Ladd, acolyte; Charlene Lesher, Terry Persing and Wendy Wary, Sunday school/nursery; William Milbrand, choir director; William Persing Sr., sexton; Wendy Wary, secretary,

Activities - Sunday, Christian education meeting following worship; Tuesday, Bible study, 6:30 p.m.; July 14 to 18, "Weird Animals" vacation Bible school, 6 to 8 p.m. Children 4-12 are welcome. Registration will be at 5:45 p.m.

First UMC, Mount Carmel

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

Pastor - The Rev. Susan J. Roehs.

Worship service - 9:30 a.m. Ninth Sunday of Easter.

Sunday School - 9:45 a.m.

Sermon - "No Plan B," by Pastors Roehs.

Participants - Sharon Styer, organist; J. Kevin Jones, head usher; Kevin Styer, sound technician; Bret Getty, liturgist; Rachel Maurer, acolyte; Linda Gula, counter; Barb Malick, children's time.

Activities - Monday, administrative council meeting, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Brownie troop meeting, 6 p.m., Al-Anon meeting in boardroom, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, leaders' small group, 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, New Beginnings O.A., 7 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 service - 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Mary Hollingshead, liturgist; Bill, Sahron and Emily Slanina, greeters.

Activities - Monday, Bible study, in parlor, 6 p.m. Kristie Waugh will be on nursery duty.

God's Missionary Church

God's Missionary Church in the Valley, 768 Bear Valley Ave., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Howard R. McKenzie.

Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

Sunday worship and children's church - 10:45 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Thursday, prayer meeting, 7:30 p.m.

Good News Bible Church

Good News Bible church, 221 Main St., Locustdale.

Sunday worship - 3 p.m.

Speaker - Guest speaker Danny Overkott speaking on "Godly Fathers," based on Romans 1:18-21. There will be a gift for all the men of the church in honor of Father's Day.

Participants - Shirley Brass, prayer chain coordinator; Wes Brassington, deacon; Bob Keener, church ministry coordinator, and Jill Keener, music coordinator.

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 Bible fellowship groups for all ages - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday morning worship - 10:30 a.m.

Sunday evening worship/young couples' class/youth group/discovery station - 6:30 p.m.

Nursery care is provided for all Sunday services.

Activities - Every Monday and Thursday, ladies and men's Bible studies; today, church work day; Sunday, CLD leader meeting; Friday, membership class; June 23 to 27, vacation Bible school; June 29, Missions Sunday. Call the church at (570) 648-0372 for info on activities.

Grace Evangelical

Grace Evangelical Independent Church, Locustdale.

Pastor - The Rev. Rose Marquardt.

Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 11 a.m.

Grace Lutheran, Shamokin

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

Pastor - The Rev. David M. Byerly.

Worship service - 10:15 a.m. Service of word and sacrament.

No adult Sunday school for the summer.

Participants - Ron Weller, worship assistant; Austin Joraskie, acolyte/crucifer; Willie Marsh and Susan Portzline, communion bearers; Jeanne Hoffa, altar care; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Deitz, greeters; Jeffrey Clutcher, driver, and Mr. and Mrs. Harry Deitz, Mr. and Mrs. David Hand, Mr. and Mrs. William Joraskie, Joan Lineweaver, Roger Giffin and Mr. and Mrs. Barry Schleig and Dr. and Mrs. Bruce Romanic, ushers; Walter Boyer, organist, and Charlene Pell, choir director.

Activities - Tuesday, joint stewardship/evangelism committee, fellowship hall, 7 p.m.; Thursday, Living With Grief, church parlor, 10:30 a.m.; Friday and Saturday, June 20 and 21, Upper Susquehanna Synod Assembly, Susquehanna University.

Grace Lutheran, Mount Carmel

Grace Lutheran Church, 145 W. Avenue, Mount Carmel.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Alfred Bashore.

The Sunday of Pentecost.

Service with communion - 10:45 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church.

Guest speaker - Harry Deitz.

Participants - Linda Rubendall, organist; Zachary Hunter, lector; William Brass, president and usher; Charles Barnes, bell ringer,

Note - Services for June will be at Grace Lutheran Church.

Grace UCC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Joan A. Brown.

Morning worship - 9 a.m.

Participants - Bryan Lapinski, organist; Aurora Froutz, acolyte; Albert Green and John Lawler, ushers.

Activities - June 16, Rally Day planning committee meeting, 6 p.m.; June 17, supper club will meet at Olive Garden in Buckhorn. 6 p.m.; June 18, Dorcas class covered dish dinner, 6 p.m.; Aug. 2, Sight and Sound bus trip, "Moses."

Harvest Worship

Harvest Worship Ministries, 2079 Upper Road, West Cameron Township, 570-850-4280, 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. A non-denominational Bible church.

Pastor - Gary L. Owens.

Pastor Gary can be reached by calling the office at 570-966-1330, or by cell at 570-486-3967.

Himmel's Church

Himmel's Church, 107 Covered Bridge Road, Dornsife.

Pastor - Jane H. Compton.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Communion is celebrated the first Sunday of every month.

Activities - June 15, outdoor service in the picnic grove; July 20, outdoor service in the picnic grove; Aug. 25, outdoor service in the picnic grove.

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, Holy Name Society Father's Day Communion Breakfast in the activity center, 9:30 a.m., PREP classes for Grades 6-8, 9 a.m.; Monday, Prep classes for Grades 1-5, 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday, bingo in activity center. Doors open 4:30 p.m. Games begin at 6 p.m.; Wednesday, picnic committee meeting, 7:15 p.m. in the activity center; Thursday, finance council meeting, 7:15 p.m.

Holy Trinity

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

Clergy - The Rev. Frederic G. Stevenson, rector, and Deacon Richard Hazzard.

Sunday worship - 10 a.m. with holy eucharist. Children's Sunday school during worship. Coffee hour and vestry meeting following worship.

Participants - Susan Zaner, greeter; Linda Riley, lector; Deacon Hazzard, intercessor; Ron and Mary Slovick, oblations; Frank Zaretski and Oliver Fesniak, ushers; Kyrstin Kinnaman, altar server, and Grethel Vinup, organist.

Activities - Wednesday, holy eucharist and healing, 10 a.m.

Hope Community Church

Hope Community Church, non-denominational Bible church, 551 W. Fourth St., 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.

Johnston City UMC

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

Pastor - Dan Siddle.

Worship service - 10 a.m.

Worship leaders - 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; Pastor Siddle, speaker.

Miller's Crossroads

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

Pastor - Michelle Beissel.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Participants - Betsy Bradigan, organist.

Ministry of the Water and Spirit

Ministry of the Water and Spirit Church

Pastor - James Bowers.

Sunday service - 10 a.m., pastor's home, 829, W. Pine St., Coal Township.

God's Chuck Wagon is an outreach of the Ministry of the Water and Spirit.

Mother Cabrini

Mother Cabrini Church, North Shamokin Street, Shamokin.

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

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

Sunday 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.

Activities - Today, annual parish picnic at the RCA Picnic Grounds, 3 to 10 p.m., bake sale in the church hall after the 4 p.m. Mass; Sunday, annual parish picnic at the RCA Picnic Grounds, 2 to 10 p.m., bake sale in the church following all morning masses; Monday, picnic grounds cleanup at 9 a.m. at the RCA Picnic Grounds, bingo cancelled, games resume June 23.

Mountainside

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

Pastor - The Rev. Richard H. Earl.

Coffee and breakfast snacks for all - 9 a.m.

LIFEQuest Sunday school classes for all ages - 9:30 a.m., with nursery available.

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m. Nursery and children's church.

Youth night - bi-weekly at 5 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, adult prayer and Bible study, Royal Rangers, ages 5 to 18, and girls ministry, 6:30 p.m. Coffee served.

Monthly activities - First Sunday, communion and children's sermon, during 10:30 a.m. service; prayer burst on the first Sunday night of the month, 6 p.m.; second Tuesday, Women of Purpose meeting, 7 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 - 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Matthew 28: 16-20.

Sermon - "The Great Commission."

Participants - Philip Maue, organist.

Sacrament of holy communion is celebrated the first Sunday of every month.

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.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m. Junior church and nursery available. Handicapped accessible, wheelchair available, church side/back entrance.

Activities - Prayer room open mornings; prayer, fellowship and coffee, Saturdays, 9 a.m.; June 22, 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, Bible study, 6 p.m., at First United Methodist Church; Thursday, free karate classes at church, children ages 5 to 12, 6;30 to 7:15 p.m.; 13 and up, 7:30 p.m.; Open Arms outreach, 6 to 8 p.m., first and third Fridays of the month.

Our Lady of Hope

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

Pastor - The Rev. Steven G. Frenier, OFM 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.

Peifer's Evangelical

Peifer's Evangelical Congregational Church, Mandata Road, Herndon.

Pastor - Bradley D. Hatter.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Church, 599 W. Center St., Elysburg.

Pastor - The Rev. Alfred P. Sceski.

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

Confessions - Saturday, 4 to 4:30 p.m.

Restoration Ministries

Restoration Ministries Church, 525 W. Chestnut St., Shamokin.

Pastor - Paul K. Eby.

Pre-service prayer - 9 a.m.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m. for all ages, JoAnne Long, superintendent.

Sunday worship service - 10:30 a.m. Pastor Paul will speak. The worship team will lead praise and worship. Special prayer will be available. Nursery care will also be available.

Children's church - 11:15 a.m. for ages 4 through 11, directed by Shirley Cintron.

Student Life Ministry youth service - 6:30 p.m. for all teens ages 12 to 18.

Activities - Monday, soup kitchen, 5 to 6 p.m.; Tuesday, cross training youth disciple class, dinner at 3 p.m., class taught by Fran Jones from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.; Saturday, Soul Seekers group for ages 18 and older, 7 p.m.

St. John Lutheran

St. John Lutheran, 29 High Road Danville.

Pastor - Kris Brown.

The Holy Trinity.

Sunday school - 9:15 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Allan Schappert, lector; Connie Shulski, organist; Pastor Kris Brown, worship leader.

St. John's UCC

St. John's United Church of Christ, 117 N. Eighth St., Shamokin

Pastor - The Rev. Robert B. Peiffer.

Message - "Trinitarian Congregations."

Contemporary service - 9 a.m. in fellowship hall.

Special music - Praise team.

Coffee social hour - 10 a.m. in fellowship hall.

Traditional service - 11 a.m. in sanctuary.

Children's message - David Spotts

Participants - Margaret Morris, organist; Paul Yucha, lay reader; Xavier Lehman, acolyte.

Activities - Monday, VBS planning meeting, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, depression and bi-polar support group meeting in the church parlor, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, church picnic at Knoebels, 4:30 p.m.; Thursday, praise team practice, 6 p.m.

WISL1480.com airs "Porch Talk," a St. John's produced discussion program, every Saturday morning at 10 a.m.

St. John's UMC

St. John's United Methodist Church, 1211 W. Arch St., Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Karyn Fisher.

Lay leader - Paul Stehman.

Worship - 9 a.m. Children's church at 9:30 a.m. Recognition of graduates

Sunday school for all ages - 10:30 a.m.

Activities - Tuesday, Banner buddies, 5 p.m., men's group, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, prayer, praise and study - Letter of James, 6:30 p.m.; Friday, Narcotics Anonymous in lower level, 8 p.m.; June 23, VBS meeting, 7 p.m.; July 20-25, SonTreasure Island Vacation Bible School, 6 to 8 p.m.

Notes - The Methodists United "Praise-Praise" picnic scheduled for June 28 has been cancelled. New Member class is forming, please see Pastor Karyn for details. Manna for the Many item for June is canned meat.

St. Joseph's Church

St. Joseph's Church, 11th and Walnut streets, Ashland.

Pastor - The Rev. John W. Bambrick.

Sister Elizabeth Kealy, IHM, director of religious education.

Confessions - Saturday, 3 to 3:30 p.m. Any time by appointment.

Rosary prayed before all Masses.

Mass schedule - Today, 4 p.m. (Vigil for Sunday); Sunday, 8:30 a.m.; Monday and Tuesday, 8 a.m.; Wednesday, adoration all day from 9 a.m., concluding with night prayers, benediction and Miraculous Medal devotions at 4:45 p.m., Mass at 5 p.m.; Thursday, 8 a.m.; Friday, noon; first Fridays Sacred Heart devotions.

St. Ann's Chapel, open each day for prayer. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday, 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon; Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

St. Mark Lutheran

St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 225 N. Market St., Elysburg.

Interim pastor - Kris Brown.

The Holy Trinity.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Participants - Pastor Brown, worship leader; Connie Shulski, organist.

Activities - Monday, Wednesday and Friday, Elysburg senior center open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Wednesday, AA, 7 p.m.; Thursday, Boy Scouts, 8 p.m.

St. Matthew Lutheran

St. Matthew (Slovak) Lutheran Church, 301 W. Avenue, Mount Carmel.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Alfred Bashore.

Service with communion - 10:45 a.m.

Day of Pentecost.

Guest speaker - Harry Deitz.

Services for June are being held at Grace Lutheran Church.

St. Michael Orthodox

St. Michael's Orthodox Church, 131 N. Willow St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Very Rev. Michael H. Evans.

Divine liturgy - 9 a.m.

St. Patrick

St. Patrick Church, 331 W. Shamokin St., Trevorton.

Pastor - The Rev. Steven G. Frenier, OFM Conv.

Weekend Mass - Sunday, 9 a.m.

Weekday Mass - 8 a.m. Wednesday.

Sacrament of reconciliation - Wednesday after morning Mass or during the day.

St. Paul Lutheran

St. Paul Lutheran Church, 4663 Upper Road, Gowen City.

Pastor - The Rev. David M. Byerly.

Service of word and sacrament - 8:15 a.m.

Participants - Cindy Henninger, lector; Claire Bonshock and Stephanie Boyer, communion assistants; Steven Balonis, acolyte/crucifer; Walter Boyer, organist and choir director.

St. Paul's Reformed

St. Paul's Reformed United Church of Christ, Gowen City.

Pastor - Jerry Schlegel.

Worship time - 9 a.m. Manna for the Many donations today.

Scripture - 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13.

Message - "Portrait of a Father."

Participants - Cliff Artman, organist.

St. Pauline Visintainer

St. Pauline Visintainer Center, 1150 Chestnut St., Box 115, Kulpmont.

"Chapel of the Crucified."

Eucharistic adoration - Friday, noon to midnight, and Saturday, 6 to 7 p.m.

St. Pauline Visintainer Center, open Saturday, Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.

Relics on display of Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, spouse of Mary, and St. Peter Apostle.

St. Peter's Lutheran

St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Aristes.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Alfred Bashore

Service and sacrament of holy communion - 9 a.m.

Guest speaker - Harry Deitz.

Participants - Linda Rubendall, organist; Carol Buffington, choir director, Larry Sommers, lector.

SS Peter and Paul

SS Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, Avenue and Beech Street, Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko.

Confessions - Saturday, 3:15 p.m., and Sunday, 8:15 a.m.

Weekday divine liturgies - 8 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Weekend divine liturgies - 4 p.m. Saturday and 9:15 a.m. Sunday.

Religious education classes - 6 to 7:15 p.m. Monday.

St. Peter's UCC

St. Peter's United Church of Christ, Overlook.

Pastor - Paul T. Gurba Jr.

Morning worship - 8:30 a.m.

Sermon title - "Being the Father God Wants You to Be."

Verse of the day - Genesis 6:18 - "But with thee I will establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou and thy sons, and thy wife and thy sons wives with thee."

Organist - Virginia Nefsky.

St. Stephen's

St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Fourth and Maple streets, Mount Carmel.

Clergy - The Rev. Frederic Stevenson.

Service 8:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist.

Handicapped accessible.

Second Saturday, 5 p.m., Holy Eucharist at the St. Stephen Center.

Salem UCC

Salem United Church of Christ, 1300 W. Pine St., Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Jean Eckrod.

Morning worship - 10 a.m.

Participants - Sadie Komara, acolyte; Brian Williams, lay leader; Julie Updegrove and JudyLynn Weaver, beginners class; Barbara Skrivanek, junior class; Carolyn Weaver, organist; Dwayne Scicchitano, lighting/sound.

Special ministry - Pennies for Sergio will be received this Sunday. Members are asked to bring pennies to support the sponsored child from Guatemala.

A quiet room for young infants and nursery care for infants and toddlers is available during the morning worship hour at 10 a.m. Christian education is provided for children ages 3 to 12 immediately after children's time at the beginning of the worship service.

Activities - Wednesday, Senior Day at A Taste of Italy in Berwick. Leaving the church at 11 a.m. After lunch, the seniors will be going to Big Lots. Council meeting.

Salvation Army

Christian Enrichment Center, 1300 W. Spruce St., Coal Township.

Commanding officer - Maj. Tina Streck.

Holiness meeting (worship) - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday school - 10:45 a.m.

Seibert Evangelical

Seibert Evangelical Congregational Church, Route 147, Herndon.

Pastor - Bradley D. Hatter.

Worship - 9 a.m.

Sunday school - 10:15 a.m.

Seventh Street

Seventh Street Primitive Methodist Church, 34 N. Seventh St., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. David Wildoner.

Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Morning worship and children's church - 11 a.m.

A nursery is available for children birth of age 5 during morning worship service and children's church is available for children over 5 with focus on lessons from the Bible.

Shamokin Alliance

Shamokin Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, Second and Arch streets, Shamokin.

Pastor - Samuel Bellavia.

Sunday school - 9:45 a.m. Classes available for all ages.

Worship services - 8:30 and 10:50 a.m.

Wednesday ministries - 6 to 7:30 p.m. Age range is four to high school senior.

Evening service - 7 p.m.

Offered are small groups and cottage prayer meetings for adults. Contact church at 570-644-1718 for information.

Shamokin Seventh-Day Adventist

Shamokin Seventh Day Adventist Church, 7 E. Sunbury St., Shamokin (former Jewish synagogue), 570-648-7770.

Pastor - John Peters.

Saturday sabbath school - 9:30 a.m., with classes for children and adults.

Saturday worship - 11 a.m.

Tuesday, Bible studies, 5 p.m.

Stonington Baptist

Stonington Baptist Church, Hosta Road, Paxinos.

Pastor - The Rev. J. Douglas Hallman.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Morning worship - 10 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, AWANA clubs for children in kindergarten through sixth grade and Word of Life clubs for grades 7 to 12, 6:30 p.m., prayer service, 7 p.m.

Trevorton UMC

Trevorton United Methodist Church, Shamokin Street, Trevorton,

Pastor - The Rev. Al Schell Jr.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:45 a.m.

Nancy Korenkiewicz, pianist, organist and choir director.

Activities - Thursdays, Bible study taught by Roxanne Klinger, 7 p.m.; second Tuesday of month, United Methodist Women, 7 p.m.

Trinity Evangelical

Trinity Evangelical Congregational Church, 28 W. Arch St., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Brian C. Betsworth.

Sunday school - 9:50 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Activities - Wednesday, prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m. Recovery in Christ, a new Bible-based 12-step support group, 6 p.m., Wednesdays. For more information, call Betsworth at 570-648-1682.

Trinity Lutheran

Trinity Lutheran Church, 65 E. Sunbury St., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. David Hauck.

Worship service - 10 a.m.

Participants - Darian Jones, lector; Mary Tharp, communion assistant; Corey Levi, cantor; Jan Morrison, organist; Jared Jones, acolyte; Don and Sue Ponatoski, altar guild; Carol Eidam, counter.

True Grace

True Grace Bible Ministry, 950 W. Arch St., Coal Township.

Pastor/teacher - Michael Marcheskie.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday service - 10:30 a.m., with children's study time.

United Presbyterian

United Presbyterian Church, 100 E. Fifth St., Mount Carmel.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Message - "The Unsung Hero"

Scripture - Matthew 1:18-24.

Participants - Dale Schimpf, organist; Deb Wydra, acolyte; Ellsworth George, Andrew Mekosh and Robert Shaw, ushers; Dorothy Snyder, greeter.

Victory Bible Church

Victory Bible Church, Snydertown Highway, three miles from Elysburg.

Pastor - Kevin Kline.

Worship - 10 a.m., with Sunday school for youth at the same time.

Evening worship - 7 p.m.

Wilburton UMC

Wilburton United Methodist Church, Wilburton.

Pastor - Rose M. Marquardt.

Worship service - 8:45 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Zion UMC

Zion United Methodist Church, Aristes.

Pastor - The Rev. Rose M. Marquardt.

Worship service - 9:50 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Zion Methodist

Zion United Methodist Church, Trevorton Road, Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Betty Ford.

Sunday school - 10:30 a.m.

Worship - 11 a.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Bible study, 1 p.n., first Tuesday of month, United Methodist Women, 7 p.m.

Summer food program starts Monday

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Area School District is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge. Acceptance and participation requirements for the program are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, age or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service.

Meals will be provided from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Mount Carmel Area Junior Senior High School, 600 W. Fifth St., weekdays beginning Monday through July 25. In observance of Independence Day, summer food service will be closed July 3 and 4.

Flag retirement ceremony today

TREVORTON - The Trevorton VFW Post 7813 and Post 92 Trevorton American Legion will hold a flag burning ceremony at 6 p.m. today at the Trevorton Foundry War Memorial. All are welcome to attend.

MC Elks Students of the Year

MOUNT CARMEL - The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of Mount Carmel Lodge 356 recently announced the Mount Carmel Area Elks Students of the Year for the 2013-14 school year.

Student of the Year

Student of the Year is senior Luke Duceman, a son of Chris and Dot Blase, of Mount Carmel, and Rich Duceman, of Aristes.

Luke is the president and drum major of the marching band and is in the symphonic, jazz and pep bands. He is the vice president of the chorus and takes part in the spring musical. He is an anchor, reporter and assistant editor of the news reporting class at school. Luke is president of the Spanish Club and was Haunted High student advisor.

Outside of school, Luke works as a waiter at May's Drive-In in Ashland, and is a musician at Knoebels Amusement Resort. His honors and awards include PMEA District Eight Band, PMEA Region Four Band and the PMEA District Eight Jazz Band. He also participated in the Susquehanna University Honors Band. Duceman was awarded the Mount Carmel Area Marching Band Rookie of the Year and Outstanding Musician awards in past years, and was awarded the Outstanding Musician Award and the Robert Sowa Dedication Award this year. He was a previous Elks Junior Student of the Year and is in the National Honor Society.

In his free time, Luke enjoys listening to, playing and writing music, singing, reading, writing and spending time with family and friends. His future plans are to attend Susquehanna University to major in music education.

Junior Student of the Year

Junior Student of the Year is sophomore Luke Darrup, a son of Julie Darrup, of Kulpmont, and Joseph Darrup, of Mount Carmel.

Luke is on the distinguished honor roll, is in the National Honor Society, and is president of the sophomore class. He is a past winner of the Junior High Pride Award and both Elks Teen of the Month and Elks Junior Student of the Month awards. He also has the distinction of placing first at the post level and second at the district level in the VFW's Voice of Democracy writing contest, and third place in the Patriot's Pen contest in past years.

Luke plays the saxophone in marching, symphonic, jazz and pep bands and is a band librarian. He is also part of the Interact Club, senior high chorus, competes in Odyssey of the Mind, and both altar serves and lectors at Divine Redeemer Church in Mount Carmel. Luke is an anchor and reporter for the school's morning news, MCALIVE, and participates in the school musicals, this year, portraying leading male Emmett Forrest in "Legally Blonde."

Luke works at Knoebels and enjoys music, video games and learning new things. His favorite sports teams are the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Dodgers. Besides the saxophone, he also plays piano and drums. After high school Luke plans on attending college to enter the medical field.

Teen of the Year

Teen of the Year is Carl Darrup, a son of Jim and Anne Darrup, of Mount Carmel.

Carl's activities include marching, symphonic, jazz and pep band. He is president of the freshman class and is in the Interact Club and Odyssey of the Mind. He is also an altar server at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Mount Carmel.

Carl is a former Elks Student of the Month and Junior High Pride Award Winner, and is a distinguished honor roll student in addition to being a part of the National Honor Society.

Carl likes to listen to music, read, play the baritone and guitar, and support the girls' soccer and basketball teams. His future plans are to attend a four-year college.

Junior Teen of the Year

Junior Teen of the Year is seventh-grade student Ava McGee, a daughter of John and Elizabeth McGee, of Mount Carmel.

Ava is on the junior high cross country and basketball teams, plays AYSO soccer and participates in gymnastics and Odyssey of the Mind. She is a previous Merit Award winner and is on the distinguished honor roll.

Ava's interests include art and spending time with her friends and family. She intends to pursue a career in the medical field in the future.

SHAMOKIN TOWNSHIP - A problem with a state purchasing program is threatening to set back Shamokin Township's roadwork for the upcoming months.

Roadmaster Jon Clements reported at the township's board of supervisors meeting Wednesday that they are not able to buy materials, such as pavement preservation material Fibermat and road chippings, under the Costars contract. Costars is the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's cooperative purchasing program administered by the Department of General Services (DGS) Bureau of Procurement.

"At this point, we have to join up with Upper Augusta Township and put our projects out on bid now to get any roadwork done this year," Clements said.

In the past, the township has purchased the materials and done the work themselves. Clements asked that the township ask PennDOT to prepare a bid package and put it out for bid. If the issue with Costars is resolved, the bids will be rejected and business will continue as usual.

Greg Rachau, board chairman, made the motion to open bids at a tentative special meeting July 23; Paul Rapp seconded. The motion was approved on a 2-0 vote with supervisor John Klinger absent.

Moths

Former supervisor Tom Carl said the township's trees are infested with gypsy moth caterpillars.

"We already have an issue with defoliating trees this year, so we have to get on track for next year or else the trees will die," Carl said.

Carl said this is the first time Shamokin Township has seen an infestation of the gypsy moth since 2001, and because of that, the township has not been on a spraying schedule. Sprayings can only be done from mid-April to mid-May.

Supervisors made a motion to direct the township's solicitor, Jim Bathgate, to write a letter to various county and state agencies to get back on the spraying list.

Shamokin-Coal Township

Monday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; poker, 9:30 a.m.; game show, 11 a.m.; world news, noon; crafts, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; walk-a-mile 9 a.m.; tai chi class with Barry Hallman, instructor, 9:30 a.m.; blood pressure and blood screening by Family Medical, 10 to 11 a.m.; lunch at Hannah's, 11:30 a.m.; bridge, noon.

Wednesday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; bridge lessons, 9:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 10 a.m.; Attorney Varano will speak on the topic "Legal Matters," noon; pinochle and Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; walk-a-mile, 9:30 a.m.; picnic, 11 a.m., cost $5, desserts and side dishes needed; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Morning cards, puzzles and board games, 8:30 a.m.; yoga, 9:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 10:15 a.m.; bingo, noon.

Saturday - Cards, 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Mount Carmel

Monday - Coffee and gab, 10 a.m.; exercise/games, 10:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; bean bag, 12:30 p.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Tuesday - Morning coffee and the news, 9:30 a.m.; favorite game show, 11 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle, 12:15 p.m.; Unlucky 7s, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Center closed for church function. Mount Carmel members are invited to the Elysburg Center for nickel bingo, transportation available.

Thursday - Center closed for church function. Mount Carmel members are invited to the Kulpmont Center for quarter bingo and "make your own sundae," transportation available.

Friday - Center closed for church function. Mount Carmel members are invited to the Shamokin/Coal Township center for nickel bingo, transportation available.

Kulpmont

Monday - Coffee and gab in the morning; bean bag, 10:30 a.m.; Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Music and hand held games in the morning; pinochle-cards, noon; Wii, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Coffee and do your own thing in the morning; LCR, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Music and gab in the morning; bean bag, 9:30 a.m.; Wii, 10:30 a.m.; Kulpmont Borough public safety presentation by Chief Pitcavage; bingo, 12:30 p.m; computer lessons with Brea, 12:30 p.m.; make your own sundae at break time, $2.

Friday - Chair exercises in the morning; Wii, 10 a.m.; Attorney Varano question and answer session, noon; nickel bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Centralia-Wilburton

Monday - Current events, 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday - Exercise with Carol Burton, 10 a.m.; Father's Day dinner.

Wednesday - Trip to Hometown Farmer's Market.

Thursday - Picnic at Ashland Park.

Friday - Open activities.

Elysburg

Monday - Healthy Steps, 8:30 a.m.; royal rummy, 10 a.m.; Pokeno, 11:30 a.m.

Wednesday - Healthy Steps, 8:30 a.m.; royal rummy, 10 a.m.; bingo, noon; center birthday party; VNA blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Friday - Crafts, 9:30 a.m.; line dancing, 9:30 a.m.; pinochle, noon; trip to Olive Garden.

Trevorton

Monday - Exercise, 10:30 a.m.; card games, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Exercise, 10 a.m.; Scrabble, 10:30 a.m.; evening bingo, 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday - VNA blood sugar and pressure screening, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.; exercise, 10:30 a.m.; Father's Day lunch, 11:30 a.m.

Thursday - Exercise, 9:30 a.m.; shopping at Lycoming Mall, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; pinochle, 10:30 a.m.

Friday - Wii games, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.; fire safety program by the American Red Cross 10:30 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Working together toward a common goal.

That's the mission of the inaugural Coal Region Relay for Life featuring 21 teams and more than 200 participants that kicked off Friday morning and concludes at 10 a.m. today at Kemp Memorial Stadium.

Judging by the turnout of walkers, an increase in volunteer workers and money raised, the mission was accomplished.

Joe Phillips, co-chair of the relay that brought together teams from Shamokin, Mount Carmel and surrounding communities, said he was pleased with the overall success of the event that had raised $19,000 by noon Friday. The goal of the relay is $48,000.

All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society in its ongoing fight against cancer.

The theme for this year's relay is "Mining for a Cure."

Linda Reed, of Trevorton Road, was the honorary cancer survivor.

Phillips said the 21 teams represent the largest participation at the relay in many years.

"We've had a lot more help and support organizing the relay this year due to the decision to merge with Mount Carmel," Phillips said. "There was a core group of only five or six people who put together the relay in recent years, but this year, we've had many more volunteers step forward, which has allowed us to have many separate committees."

Phillips, who noted organizing the event is a year-round project, urged everyone to continue to support the local relay. "You don't have to have cancer or have a relative or friend with cancer to participate," Phillips said, "Everyone is welcome to support the fight against cancer."

In addition to walking laps and raising money, Phillips and his co-chair, Heather Fernandez, said the relay brings people from neighboring communities together to have fun while raising awareness about the deadly disease.

Phillips and Fernandez thanked everyone who participated or contributed to the relay and especially praised Shamokin Area School District for allowing the event to once again be held at the spacious, well-maintained stadium.

This year's relay featured four live bands, radio broadcasts, disc jockeys, food stands, a performance by Motivation Station, a luminaria service, an opening lap for all teams, survivors and caregivers lap and dinner, Zumba, free oral screenings by Shamokin dentist Dr. J.C. Owens, kids' games, a Ms. Relay contest, a butterfly release honoring the memory of loved ones, and closing ceremony in which participants take their final lap.

The annual Bark for Life event that raises money for the relay will be held in Mount Carmel Town Park at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21.

Relay teams include Helen's High Rollers, Mighty Masser's, Linda's Crew, John's Building Blocks, Patsy's Petunias, Notary Shop, Eric's Brew Crew, Shamokin LCCC Trailblazers, Mountain View of Hope, Bubbie's Boobies, Johnney's Angels, Owens Dentistry, LCCC Kulpmont Nursing Class of 2015, Cancer Slayers, Veterans Against Cancer, MCA Cops for a Cure, Karen's Crew, The Curesaders, Lemongrass Spa, Northwestern Academy and Breast Friends.

Committee members include Phillips, Fernandez, Earl Reed, Lisa Phillips, Jeff Hampton, Norie Kealey, Tina Katalinas, Our Town Radio, Kathy Masser, D.J. Arbogast, Melissa Katch, Tammy Leach, Missy Dressler, Shirl Malett, Cierra Eby, Tommy Eby, Val Malett, Terry Faust and Ilyse Hampton.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The "Berkheiser Boys," who have operated K&S Distributors along Trevorton Road for more than four decades, are retiring and looking to sell the business that has been a local staple for appliances, televisions, stoves and plumbing and electrical supplies.

"We've had a pretty good run," said Jake Berkheiser, 68, of Trevorton Road, who with his brothers, Ron, 75, and Tom, 70, both of Paxinos, have worked at the business for 42 years and owned it since 1980. "We never pressured anyone into buying our products and we sold them what they needed. We did it all here and always lived by the motto - If we don't have it, you don't need it."

Ron added, "We had a lot of good customers over the years who were also our friends, and we'll definitely miss serving them. But it's time to retire. Like Jake said, we've had a good run, but we can't run anymore. That's why we are quitting."

Who are 'K' and 'S'?

The Berkheisers began working at K&S Distributors in 1972 when it was owned by Fred Renn, who passed away in 1979. The brothers purchased the business in 1980 from Renn's widow, Cleta.

"We basically decided to buy the business because we were out of a job when Fred died," Jake said.

He said the business, which opened in the early 1960s, was named after its original owners, Howard Krebs and Frank "Red" Sanzotto.

"Howard and Red sold barometric coal stokers when they started the business and we've expanded the products over the years to appliances, TVs, electrical and plumbing supplies, furnaces and more," Jake said. "We've served three generations of families."

K&S Distributors, which a few years ago still had the largest selection of General Electric and Hotpoint appliances in the area, has sold, delivered and installed dishwashers, water heaters, garbage disposals, cooktops, built-in ovens, an assortment of televisions, Reading and Keystone stoker stoves, coal boilers, oil boilers, hot air furnaces, water softeners, STA-RITE pumps, pump tankers, oil nozzles and filters, Argo baseboard copper, plastic pipes, fittings and other accessories at discount prices.

Ed Kotwica, who operates Ed's Appliances in Shamokin, has done the service work for K&S Distributors for many years.

"We not only sold a wide variety of products, but we also gave our customers a lot of free advice over the years," Ron said. "We're old school when it comes to operating a business and our customers have appreciated that approach for many years."

Selling off inventory

Ron said many customers have come into the store recently and wished the brothers good luck in their retirement. "They're happy for us, but they don't want to see us go," Ron said.

Jake and Ron, who talked about several of their loyal customers and recalled some entertaining moments throughout the business' successful history, said they still have a few appliances, electrical and plumbing supplies and furnace controls for sale.

"We're trying to sell all our inventory before we close," Jake said. "We don't have an exact date for going out of business, but it will definitely be in the summer."

The Berkheisers have sold their warehouse across Route 225 from K&S Distributors, which has always been at its current location, and are accepting offers for the business or property. Anyone interested in purchasing the store can call 570-648-6801.

The Berkheiser brothers have worked well with Peter's Home Appliances on Market Street in Sunbury over the years and refer customers to that business.

"This business has been good to us over the years," Jake said. "We've always offered personalized service because we care about our customers. If they had a problem, we always tried our best to solve it."

In addition to being well known for operating K&S Distributors, Jake, Ron and Tom have played in several musical groups for many years with their 62-year-old brother, Dave, who operates K&S Music in Paxinos.

As for their future plans, the Berkheiser brothers plan to play more golf and do some traveling.

Family get-togethers are not only fun; they are also educational. That was the case a few weeks ago when relatives got together to celebrate the high school graduation of my cousins' granddaughter. I learned how my cousin Alex chose his college and I was reminded about something about my Dad.

Alex recalled that when he was a high school student, he was asked where he planned to go to college. "Well, where did Uncle Joe go to school," he asked. "Uncle Joe was the smartest guy I knew." Alex's brothers Bobby and Chris echoed the same opinion. That's how Alex ended up at Bloomsburg State College (now Bloomsburg University).

It's been many years since I had to figure out algebra or the angles of geometry, but whenever I think about them I can't help think about Dad's love of and aptitude for learning.

The mathematical part of his brain functioned at a whole other level than mine. For goodness sake, he would do calculus problems and read physics books for fun. I even gave up asking him for help with my algebra homework. He would show me three or four ways to solve a problem and my math teacher only knew one.

Decades after he ended his career as a high school teacher and administrator, his former students tell me how smart a guy Dad was. It took Alzheimer's to diminish that intelligence.

However, as much as Dad loved education, teaching and learning, he loved God even more. He was a regular attendee at daily Mass for decades. Even more importantly, though, he lived his faith. He and Mother did not have to preach sermons. They demonstrated what they believed by how they lived their lives.

Dad was indeed the smartest guy I knew, but I think the smartest thing he did was to give top priority to loving God, loving his family and loving others.

I'm not nearly as smart as Dad was, but I am smart enough to try to follow Dad's example in making sure that my life is centered on God and family.

+++

The Father's greatest lesson is love.

King's College

WILKES-BARRE - Anthony S. Anonia, of Paxinos, was named to the dean's list at King's College for the spring semester with a 3.9 GPA. He is a freshman enrolled in the 3+2 engineering dual degree program with the University of Notre Dame.

He recently completed his freshman year majoring in both chemistry and chemical engineering. He has earned dean's list honors for both semesters, with a cumulative 3.9 GPA.

Anonia is a 2013 graduate of Shamokin Area Middle/High School, and is a son of Mark and Christine Anonia, of Paxinos, and a grandson of Dr. Francis and Barbara (Quinn) Anonia and the late Albert and Virginia (Moore) Scicchitano.

SHAMOKIN - The license of a Shamokin dentist is temporarily suspended after state officials found that he may have put patients at risk of infection by not properly sterilizing his dental tools.

It's unclear how many patients of Dr. Vincent J. Paczkoskie, 74, who practices at 315 N. Shamokin St., could be at risk, or for how long. Originally issued in June 1965, his license was renewed in April 2013. An inspection is required with each renewal.

According to the state Department of Health, there have been no reports of disease transmission or illness to date. However, all current or former patients are recommended to be tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

"We strongly encourage patients who have concerns to get tested to help ensure their safety and well-being," Secretary of Health Michael Wolf said in a press release posted Friday to the department's website.

The temporary suspension was issued Friday by the State Board of Dentistry, a result of a joint investigation by the departments of health and state.

A home phone number listed for Paczkoskie, of Snydertown, was not in service, and there was no one at his office Saturday.

Dental examiner at SASD

Paczkoskie is a longtime dental examiner for the Shamokin Area School District. His appointment was last renewed in August. Ron McElwee, school board director, was unaware of the state investigation when contacted Saturday. He immediately spoke with Superintendent James Zack, who said not all students receive dental exams through the school district, which are offered at $1.50 each.

The district would research which students may have been examined by Paczkoskie and contact them accordingly, McElwee said.

Patients with health insurance are urged to contact their primary care physician or their insurance provider. Those with ACCESS/Medicaid should call the Department of Public Welfare at 800-440-3989.

Call 1-877-PA-HEALTH and select 9 for information and assistance in finding testing options, between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Any patients of Paczkoskie's seeking their medical records should contact his office.

Schools

House Bill 2124 would revamp the system for state financial reimbursement for school construction projects. The House approved the measure 109-86 and sent it to the Senate. A yes vote supported the measure.

Voting yes: Reps. Matt Baker, R-68, Wellsboro; Karen Boback, R-117, Harveys Lake; Rosemary Brown, R-189, Middle Smithfield Twp.; Lynda Schlegel Culver, R-108, Rockefeller Twp.; Doyle Heffley, R-122, Lower Towamensing Twp.; Jerry Knowles, R-124, Tamaqua; Sandra Major, R-111, Bridgewater Twp.; Kurt Masser, R-107, Ralpho Twp.; Mike Peifer, R-139, Greene Twp.; Tina Pickett, R-110, Towanda; Mike Tobash, R-125, Pottsville; Tarah Toohil, R-116, Butler Twp.

Voting no: Reps. Mike Carroll, D-118, Avoca; Frank Farina, D-115, Jessup; Marty Flynn, D-113, Scranton; Neal Goodman, D-123, Mahanoy City; Sid Michaels Kavulich, D-114, Taylor; Gerald Mullery, D-119, Newport Twp.; Phyllis Mundy, D-120, Kingston; Eddie Day Pashinski, D-121, Wilkes-Barre; Mario Scavello, R-176, Mount Pocono.

Did not vote: Rep. Kevin Haggerty, D-112, Dunmore.

Revenge

House Bill 2107 would make it a crime to disseminate an intimate sexual image intended to cause distress or so-called `revenge porn' of another person. The House approved the measure 195-0 and sent it to the Senate. A yes vote supported the bill.

Voting yes: Reps. Baker, Boback, Brown, Carroll, Culver, Farina, Flynn, Goodman, Heffley, Kavulich, Knowles, Major, Masser, Mullery, Mundy, Pashinski, Peifer, Pickett, Scavello, Tobash, Toohil.

Did not vote: Rep. Haggerty.

Military

Senate Bill 803 would reinstate an exemption from paying the local income tax for active-duty military pay. The Senate approved the measure 49-0 and sent it to the House. A yes vote supported the bill.

Voting yes: Sens. David Argall, R-29, Tamaqua; Lisa Baker, R-20, Lehman Twp.; the bill sponsor; John Blake, D-22, Archbald; Lisa Boscola, D-18, Bethlehem Twp.; Pat Browne, R-16, Allentown; John Gordner, R-27, Berwick; Gene Yaw, R-23, Williamsport; John Yudichak, D-14, Plymouth Twp.

Compiled by The Times-Shamrock Harrisburg Bureau

Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School

COAL TOWNSHIP - The following memorials were presented to Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School for March and April.

Thomas Albert from Mary Ann Balonis.

Antoinette Bach from Mary Jean Wolf, Eleanor Witt, Anthony Varano, Frank J. Varano, Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Timco, Dorothy Starego, Lawrence Splitt, Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Rosini, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Nolan, Judith Polites, Carmine J. Picarelli, Mark J. Padula, James and Kathleen Nolan, Mr. and Mrs. John McKay, Kathy Masser and Angelica, Stephen J. Maciejewski, Mr. and Mrs. John S. Maciejewski, Joseph M. Litchko, Walter Kozlowski, Mr. and Mrs. David J. Komara, Daniel and Jacqueline Kerris and family, Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Hauer, Julie Griffiths, Anna Gentile, Joseph Galitski, Dr. and Mrs. William Forti, Mary A. Fetterolf, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Ecker, Eileen Coyle, Mr. and Mrs. Edward P. Christiano, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Christiana, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Choplick, Joanne Chesney, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Chervanick, Mr. and Mrs. William Bradley, Rose Bechtel, Mary Teresa Komara and family, James Bach, Christine Anonia, Helen Winhofer, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Zyskoski, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bergonia, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Proctor, Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Sitko, Jill and William Swank, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Prusch, Corey Proctor, Jennifer M. Madden, Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Mirarchi, Mary Ann Dudeck, James F. Kealy, Anne K. Pizzoli, Dr. and Mrs. Sudhir Khanna and family, Mr. and Mrs. John Ryniak, Lisa Angelo, Mary Ann Glowaski, Rose Witrosky, Connie Fabrizio, August and Bernadine Witowski, Teresa and David Hasuga, Kyle and Beth Snyder, Peter Lentini, Alice O'Donnell, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Drumheiser, Ann Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Trell and family, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Politi, Mr. and Mrs. Martin Zarkoski, Mr. and Mrs. Jason Dampman, Mr. and Mrs. John Hladun, Ken and Tizianna Albert, John and Pam Bucanelli, Kenneth J. and Patricia Splitt, Anthony R. Bressi, Marlin and Donna Hodge, Linda Latsha, LeeAnna Talisesky, Patricia Janovich, Sister Teresa Vincent, IHM, Anna Flynn, Mary Kay Bartol, Denise and Eugene Welsh Jr., Ann S. Martino, Lorelei Duke, Diane and Paul Boyle, Lisa Marie Coyne, Lentini Family, David and Jennifer Forti, Tina Johnson, Nan Weller, Christopher and Karen Leonard, Marcy Reidinger, Theresa Kraynak, Bernie Zack, Maria Dombroski, Stefan Adamcik, Helen Daniels, Stanley and Theresa Rusesky, John and Holly Barrett, Mildred Smith, Laurie Hartman and family, Charles and Lucille Kaminsky, Janice and Joey Parker, Joseph and Marsha Codispot, Joe Tomedi, Hillside, Bernice and John Petock, James and Christine Goodwin, Leonard and Patricia Miller Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Richard Carroll, Larry A. Rohland, Kathryn and Steven Mertz, Donna Rusinko, Mary Wagner, Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Bolick, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Pecaitis, Michael J. Fantanarosa.

Victoria Bednar from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Helen Brennan from Barbara A. Yuricich.

Tanya Scandle Broscious from Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Fleming, Theresa Fleming.

Antoinette "Nettie" Clifford from Adeline and Ed Zyla, Mike and Linda Sowash and family.

Anna Marie Corcoran from Mr. and Mrs. Bob Griffiths and Anna Flynn.

Stephen J. Dormer from Mr. and Mrs. Gene Garancheski, John and Diane Fabrizio.

Eugene Fleming from Joan Kelley, Joannie and Don Yuricich, Mr. and Mrs. Jason McCarthy, Vince and Sue Yurick, Gary and Ann Hynoski, Mr. and Mrs. Rocco Roma, Maureen and Steve Zarick, J.D.. Shelly and Jared Shutt, Dante and Jeanette Mirarchi, Antoinette Mirarchi, Joseph and Barbara Varano, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Fleming, Pat and Paul Metrocavage, Chris, Karen and Kayla Leonard, Mr. and Mrs. Bogutski, Jim, Kathy, Carla and Laura Nolan, Kathy and Angelica Masser, Grace and Ken Piaseczny, AFSCME Local 2151, Mr. and Mrs. James Wasakoski, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish, Mr. and Mrs. John McKay, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Brokus and family, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Pawelczyk, Mr. and Mrs. John Brennan Sr., Leo and Mary Mulhall, Theresa Fleming, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Weikel and family, Leonard and Gloria Strenkoskie, Vincent Mirack, Mr. and Mrs. Greg Fabrizio, Mountain View Rehab, Mrs. Irene Mirack, Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Dunleavy, Gregory Maresca, Atty. and Mrs. Frank Konopka, Atty. and Mrs. Vincent Makowski, Charles and Irene Mirack, Susan and Dale Bird, Mr. and Mrs. Reynold Elliott Sr., Connie Fabrizio, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Wurster Sr. and family, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Wurster Jr. and family.

Ronald Garancheski from Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Garancheski.

Francis "Motto" Gurski from Connie Fabrizio, Joe, Judy, Adriana and Christopher Brokus, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wurster, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Reiprish, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish, Mr. and Mrs. Wurster, Leo and Mary Mulhall, John and Joanne McKay, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Madden, Klacik and Associates, PC, Mr. and Mrs. Leon Krushinski, Kathy and Angelica Masser.

Leonard Hackenburg from Mary Ann Balonis.

Michael Haverty from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Jim Heins from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

William Holland from Chris and Karen Dutchess.

Leonard "Hooter" Huxta from Mary Ann Balonis.

Mary Jarvis from Jeffrey Beaver.

Cecilia Kieski from Arlete Letcavage, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Phillips, Rita Albert and family, Susie Pufnak, Pat and Paul Metrocavage, Mr. and Mrs. Ken Albert and family, Phyllis Barrett, LeeAnn Smith and family, Gale and John Everett, Jane Marie Yocum, Carol Ann Myrter, Barbara Reiprish, Sewalk family, Margaret Bilder, Kathy and Angelica Masser, William and Virginia Korbich, Shumacher Engineering, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Maycott, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Gilger and family, Alice O'Donnell, Joseph Litchko, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Bradley and family, the Komara family, the Holleran family, Ann and Jim Mains, Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Bucanelli, Chris and Karen Dutchess, Ann E. Jones, Claire Bucanelli and Chuck, Mr. and Mrs. Bud Rolko and Mr. and Mrs. William Rickert.

D.J. Lux from Mrs. Betty Gilger and family.

Robert E. Marinelli from Knights of Columbis 628.

Joseph McBride from Kathryn McBride.

Elizabeth "Betty" Morgan from Violette Feudale, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Wurster Sr. and family, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Wurster Jr. and family, Jim Flanagan, and Marion and Chet Stesney.

Alfred Nezerski Sr. from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Alfred Nezerski Jr. from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Nellie Nezerski from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Stanley Olszewski from Connie Fabrizio.

Mary C. Pochekailo from Mrs. Edward Sickora, Mary Sickora and Howard and Theresa Sandri.

Kyle Joseph Prezlomski from Kathy and Angelica Masser.

Joseph Rado from Mr. and Mrs. John McKay.

Mary Roma from Theresa Fleming, Connie Fabrizio.

Josephine Rosini from Mr. and Mrs. Bob Griffiths.

Elizabeth Scicchitano from Howard and Theresa Sandri.

Mary Sedlock from Barbara A. Yuricich, Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Harry Shuman from Kathy and Angelica Masser.

Marjorie Sinkovich from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Mary Ann Slaby from Howard and Theresa Sandri, Mr. and Mrs. Gene Garancheski and Christine Hudson.

Kevin W. Spade from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Elizabeth "Betty" Stauffenberg from Ann Weikel, Theresa Fleming, Connie Fabrizio.

Rita (Kirsic) Varano from Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Donna Van Shura from Mr. and Mrs. Ron Zyla, Mr. and Mrs. Bernard McAllister, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Zarick, Kathy and Angelica Masser, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Picarelli, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Kalinowski and family, Mr. and Mrs. John Fabrizio, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Waugh, Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Laughlin and family, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ozga, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wurster, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Albert, Mr. and Mrs. James Yurick, Judith (Zukowski) Urick '68, Dennis and Michael Delorso, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Reiprish, Gene and Karen Yablonski, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Komara and family, Howard and Theresa Sandri, Christopher Reiprish, The Nguyen family, Friends of the Independence Fire Association, J.F. Holland, Mr. and Mrs. James Catino and family, Independence Over 40 Pool Team, John and Mary Stello and family, Mr. and Mrs. Rocco Roma, Baksi and Reuter families, May Esther Van Shura, Mr. and Mrs. David Ross and staff, the Housing Authority of the City of Shamokin Board of Commissioners and staff, Joannie and Don Yuricich, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Madden, Constance Fabrizio, Uncle Raymond Nesler, Rita E. Patynski and Norman Suchomajcz, Mr. and Mrs. Jay Dampman and family, Christine, William and Elizabeth Hudson, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Meyer, Anne H. Fulton, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Mirarchi and sons, Studio 207 Wine Club, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Barber, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Moreno and Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Dunleavy.

James "Jimmie" Wasakoski from Mr. and Mrs. John Golumbfskie and the Wasakoski family.

Catherine Yuricich from Barbara A. Yuricich and Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Dominic Yuricich from Barbara A. Yuricich and Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Mariann T. Zarkowski from Steph Weikel, Kathleen Seid family, Kathy and Angelica Masser, Phyllis Barrett, Mary Sickora, Barbara Reiprish, Roseann Chesney and Donna Wywadis.

Mary Zuech from Mary Altomare.

My last name is Italian. Unfortunately, that's all I really knew about the Italian side of my family.

Most of my Italian ancestors died a long time ago, and my family wasn't in touch with those still living. My father once tried to research our family tree, but reached a dead end with my great-grandparents, who both died before 1950.

This past semester, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy, which made me want to learn more about my Italian heritage.

So, I decided to search the Internet for any information on my ancestry. On Ellisisland.org, an online database with records of those entering the United States at New York's Ellis Island, I discovered my great-grandfather Ralph's real name was Raffaele.

However, the manuscripts on the site vary in quality from good to bad. Some have little to no information or are almost impossible to read, so it made the search a little more difficult. For Raffaele Bressi, I was able to find the name of his parents, where he was going and where he was from. Raffaele's first trip to the United States was in 1912, at the age of 8. He was going to Shamokin to live with his parents, Giuseppe and Marianna.

I was also able to find listings for his parents and siblings. Every relative I found came from the same town in Italy - Isca Sullo Ionio, Calabria, a region in southern Italy.

With that knowledge in hand, I wanted to find out more about my genealogy in the town's records, so I decided to book a flight. I was nervous about my trip, because I couldn't verify my research. The dates, names and locations seemed to fit, but I wasn't certain. Was I chasing someone else's ancestors, rather than my own? I just didn't know how much I would find, but I was going.

On April 10, I arrived in Calabria and took the only bus available in the morning - at 5 a.m. - to Isca, where, upon my arrival, I met a Bressi! I don't believe we were related, but I figured it was a good sign. Everywhere I went, I met friendly people who offered to help, whether I needed a ride, information or even just a cup of coffee.

Immediately, I made friends in Isca who helped me navigate the Civil State offices and its record books, some of which were more than 200 years old. I was able to find birth records, death records and marriage records of my ancestors. I was able to track my Italian ancestry to the late 1700s. Unfortunately, the record books in Isca don't go back any further.

I didn't find everything I wanted; I simply didn't have enough time. Yet, I had the most amazing experience. I gained insight into my ancestry and Italian heritage. I even met a distant relative who moved from the United States to Badolato. She showed me a picture of my great-great-grandfather, Giuseppe Bressi. She also cooked a delicious pasta carbonara.

I felt strangely at home despite trying to understand Calabrese, the Calabrian dialect. Isca and Badolato are little, hilltop towns that overlook the ocean. They were quaint and small, but beautiful, and I found myself imagining what life might have been like a century ago for my ancestors. It was definitely an adventure of a lifetime.

(Bressi, Mount Carmel, is a journalism student at Syracuse University.)

Kutztown University

ENOLA - Nick Rumberger, a son of Scott and Lou Rumberger, of Enorla, will be attending Kutztown University to study accounting. Nick is a graduate of Pennsboro Area High School and was a member of the National Honor Society, football and tennis teams. He was awarded a Kutztown University Academic Scholarship. Rumberger is a grandson of Tom and Gail Rumberger, of Gowen City.

Shippensburg University

SHIPPENSBURG - Kaitlyn M. Schultz, of Shamokin, received the Ivin S. and Virginia D. Bear Scholarship and the STEM Scholarship at Shippensburg University. She recently graduated from Shamokin Area Middle/High School and will major in mathematics.

Marriage licenses

James Charles Nestico and Jena Ann Oley, both of 323 W. Center St., Elysburg. Issued June 13.

David Schaeffer and Sherry Ann Stank, both of 608 N. Second St., Shamokin. Issued June 14.

Jacob A. Bowman and Kimberly A. Weinreich, both of 651 Pine St., Kulpmont. To be issued June 16.

Bryan William Gushen and Marie Rosalie Ziegler, both of 123 Montana Drive, Kulpmont. To be issued June 16.

Amy Jo Mudry and Joseph Francis Varano, both of 321 W. Fifth St., Mount Carmel. To be issued June 16.

Divorce filings

Debbra A. Rosa, of 419 McCarty St., Sunbury, from Robert Rosa Jr., of 1759 Mohawk St., Coal Township. Married June 10, 2003.

Property transfers

J. Robert and Patricia M. Snyder to Ashleigh Thomas, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $122,000.

Boyd E. Pick to Colby W. Rothermel, property in Rush Township, $140,000.

Francis Devizia to Joel E. Contreras, property in Shamokin, $1,500.

John K. and Lucinda J. Siegrist to John K. and Lucinda J. Siegrist, property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

David A. and Elaine M. Baksi to David S. Baksi, Alison E. Reuter and Adrienne E. Baksi, property in Marion Heights, $1.

Ann Louise and Forrest J. Curran to Regina E. Wachowski, property in Shamokin Township, $2,000.

Robert Gusick II to Robert W. Evely and Sharon Snyder, property in Rush Township, $15,500.

Kyle A. and Matthew R. Hickey to Brandon M. and Emily J. Fordham, property in Riverside, $165,000.

Earl V. Comfort to Earl V. Comfort Jr. and Sheila E. Leitzel, property in Shamokin Township, $1.

James W., Sandra J., Sandra I. Bohner to James W. and Sandra I. Bohner, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $1.

Percival Properties Group LLC to Robin Lynn Yiaski and Alan Johnson, property in Shamokin, $14,000.

Patrick M. McGinn, Adrienne C. Karon to Mark Costa, property in Kulpmont, $25,000.

Joshua T. and Katarzyna A. Hampton to Nicole J. Bressler, property in Riverside, $169,500.

Vaughn E. and Alice E. Wintersteen to Kevin L. and Marcie C. Wintersteen, property in Rush Township, $1.

Kathleen M. and Jonathan R. Else to Kathleen M. and Jonathan R. Else, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Jason P. Mills to Leon R. Schriver, property in Mount Carmel, $19,000.

Lawrence R. and Vickie A. Hare to Lawrence R. and Vickie A. Hare, property in Rush Township, $1.

James Yost, Lori Yost, Lori A. Yost to James and Lori A. Yost, property in Coal Township, $1.

Elwood and Margaret Swank to Margaret Swank, properties in Shamokin Township, $1 each.

Northumberland County Sheriff, Amanda J. Thorpe to US Bank NA, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, property in Coal Township, $1,102.94.

Linda J. Shoop to Matthew D. Walcott, property in Ralpho Township, $110,000.

Joseph I. and Rachel Baker to Christopher M. Breen, property in Riverside, $159,000.

John T. and Marilyn L. Blessing to Charles R. and Glendeane M. Almond, property in Sunbury, $150,000.

Judith A. and Craig E. Inns to Jeremy Cale and Pami Jo Clark, property in Sunbury, $115,000.

Thomas Q. Jr. and Kay E. Bordner to John R. Graybill, property in Lower Augusta Township, $20,000.

Randy L. and Cynthia A. Eby to Jonathan M. Dupnock, Joanna M. Bowers, property in Shamokin Township, $199,000.

Gertrude O. Gano estate, Joseph A. and Peter W. Gano, Joyce A. Bartholomew, executors, to Arlene F. Geise, property in Sunbury, $1.

S&S International Property Group LLC to Gina M. Nejedly, property in Coal Township, $11,000.