SUNBURY - A former Major League Baseball pitcher's conduct toward his ex-fiancee did not place her in fear of bodily injury, a Northumberland County hearing officer ruled Friday, denying her request for a permanent protection from abuse order.

Marsha Skoff's determination was made a day after a four-hour hearing Thursday during which Steve Kline, 42, of Winfield, and Heather L. Sawyer, 36, of Sunbury, testified on each other's conduct over the past several months. A temporary PFA had been granted by the court Sept. 12.

Judge Anthony Rosini, who granted the original PFA, signed the order approving Skoff's recommendation Thursday.

Kline "never physically harmed (Sawyer) at any time during their relationship and she did not testify to threats to harm her," Skoff wrote. "As such, the plaintiff's request for a final protection order is denied.

Kline is currently on paid leave from his primary employer, the San Francisco Giants, where he coaches in the minor league system, to straighten out the issue,

Sawyer claimed in filing for the PFA that Kline was harassing and stalking her, leaving notes on the door of her mother's residence, visiting family members and following them.

Kline said he was merely looking for Sawyer because he alleges she stole from him and, in one case, to deliver a bill for which he said she was responsible.

"(Kline) did not threaten bodily harm to (Sawyer) in any of letters or verbally at any time, but did threaten legal action and criminal charges against (Sawyer) for theft if she did not repay him for the items she took," Skoff wrote.

Sawyer testified that Kline gave her permission to take whatever she needed to "move on and start a new life."

Skoff noted in her report that Sawyer did not testify to any bodily harm having been done by Kline during their five-year relationship, other than in an isolated incident in Arizona in March 2013 where he pinned her down by her wrists while he said she was in a tantrum, and gave no testimony that she was afraid Kline would physically harm her.\

'Laying it on thick'

During Thursday's hearing, Kline testified he worried about Sawyer selling his stuff to fuel a drug habit she allegedly had for years, and has spent time in prison for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance back in 2005, and that he found syringes in his home, some in packs of 100.

Skoff noted that in her report.

"The court understands (Kline) was 'laying it on thick' for the court and does not overlook this in determining capability of the witnesses," the report reads.

Under oath, Kline testified he got the address where Sawyer was staying from a friend who is a state police officer. Kline said the officer ran a license plate number of a truck owned by Michael Snyder, a man who Kline said stayed at his house with Sawyer for a month before moving to Queen Street, Northumberland. Kline spoke with Snyder Sept. 11 and found Sawyer's vehicle.

After that discussion, and a note from Kline Sept. 12, Sawyer called Sunbury police. It was the first time she called police about Kline, but said she did so only to document the contact because the temporary PFA had just been filed, according to Thursday's testimony. She said she wasn't sure if Kline had been served with the PFA.

"It is clear that (Kline) was looking for (Sawyer)," Skoff wrote. "Kline was angry (at Sawyer) for taking items from his home, and using credit cards and writing checks allegedly without his permission."

That anger, according to Skoff, was not enough to grant the final PFA order.

"Even assuming all (Sawyer's) testimony is true and taken in the light most favorable to her, (Kline's) course of conduct does not place (Sawyer) in reasonable fear of bodily injury," the officer wrote. "Even if she were afraid of (Kline) physically harming her, such fear cannot be found to be reasonable given the circumstances of the case."

On the day of the hearing, state police at Milton filed theft-related charges against Sawyer. Kline has filed a civil action against her as well, and Saywer was served with that action during Thursday's hearing.

SUNBURY - A Kulpmont man has sued Kulpmont-Marion Heights Joint Municipal Authority for failing to restore water to his property that he planned to rent.

In addition to water reconnection at his property at 1040 Chestnut St., Kulpmont, Stephen Burda, of 601 Pine St., is seeking damages calculated at $475 per month retroactive to April, punitive damages, costs, attorney fees and other relief as the court deems just and proper.

Because the authority has not restored the water, Burda has lost $3,325 in rent to date, according to the suit filed Tuesday.

The property was sold to Burda at a Jan. 30 repository sale free and clear of all tax and municipal claims, liens, mortgages, ground rents, charges and estates after failing to be purchased at previous upset and judicial sales, according to the suit. The deed was turned over to Burda Feb. 21.

Burda later entered into a lease agreement for the property with a tenant to pay a monthly rental fee of $475 and made a request to Kulpmont-Marion Heights Joint Municipal Authority to restore the water to the property to activate the lease.

But authority manager Joseph Miriello sent a letter to Burda April 25 informing him that a reconnection fee of $1,448 for the period of November 2010 through April 2014 was due before water could be restored.

The suit says the authority, despite repeated requests by Burda, his attorney, Vincent B. Makowski, of Coal Township, and the county tax claim bureau, has refused to restore the water unless the fee is paid.

According to the suit, the reconnection fee sought by the authority not only ignored the court order declaring the sale free of all taxes and liens, but also constitutes an illegal and invalid charge in clear contravention and outright violation of the sale of property in repository.

The suit claims the authority has acted with gross and reckless indifference to the financial loss incurred by Burda and has willfully persisted in its egregious conduct in total disregard for the court order and property rights of the plaintiff.

The suit also claims the authority's conduct will have an "exceedingly chilling effect" on potential tax sale purchases for properties not only in Kulpmont and Marion Heights, but throughout the county.

MOUNT CARMEL - One down, 89 more to go.

A work crew led by 15-year-old Ben McFadden was taking a project one street sign at a time in the borough Saturday. McFadden, a freshman at Mount Carmel Area Junior/Senior High School and a member of Boy Scout Troop 174, Mount Carmel, has organized the tedious project in order to fulfill requirements for his Eagle Scout and senior projects.

McFadden, his friends, fellow Scouts and students, including members of the freshman football team, fanned out from the Clover Hose Fire Company and went street to street Saturday scraping and painting white the vintage street signs that dot the borough. The crew will return next weekend to paint all the letters black.

Ironically, McFadden came up with the idea while he and his mother were driving in Mount Carmel looking for project ideas.

"She asked me what street we were on, and I told her that I couldn't read the sign," McFadden said.

McFadden attended a borough meeting to seek approval from council. Immediately following that meeting, a man who was in attendance, who McFadden did not want to identify, approached him and offered to donate all materials for the project. Lowe's Home Improvement sold additional products at cost.

McFadden had nothing but praise for the kind gentleman. He also thanked his freshman class advisors, Aaron and Kelly Domanski; his Scout mentors, Patty Huber and Jim Conbear, and Scout Master, Sam Cimino.

COAL TOWNSHIP - A Girardville woman was airlifted to Geisinger Medical Center Saturday after a car operated by her boyfriend rear-ended a Jeep at the entrance to Walmart Supercenter.

Coal Township Patrolman Edward Purcell reported Jillian Yackera, 32, of 225 A St., was flown by Life Flight helicopter to the medical center, where she was listed in serious condition Saturday afternoon. Yackera was initially treated at the scene before being taken by AREA Services to the parking lot at Walmart, where the helicopter landed.

Yackera's boyfriend, John Weidensaul, 39, of the same address, also was injured and taken by ambulance to Geisinger, where he was listed in fair condition by a nursing supervisor.

Purcell said Kevin Thomas, 32, of 1439 Poplar St., Kulpmont, was driving a 2012 Jeep north on Route 61 at 10:13 a.m. before coming to a stop at a red light at the intersection. Police said Thomas' vehicle was in the left turn lane waiting to enter Walmart, when it was struck from behind by a 1999 Dodge Stratus driven north by Weidensaul.

The officer said neither Yackera nor Weidensaul was wearing a seat belt. Both air bags deployed.

Thomas was wearing a seat belt and escaped injury.

Weidensaul's auto sustained heavy damage to its front end and was towed from the scene by East End Towing. The Jeep sustained extensive damage to its rear passenger side bumper area and was towed by Dave's Auto Body.

Purcell said the accident remains under investigation.

In addition to ambulance and Life Flight personnel, assisting Purcell at the scene were Shamokin, Mount Carmel Township and Kulpmont police, fire police and members of Coal Township Fire Department.

The scene was cleared at about 11 a.m.

Divorces

Steven Broscious from Karen Broscious, both of 34 E. Dewart St., Shamokin. Married Sept. 12, 1992.

Joseph J. Daya Jr., 217 E. Water St., Mount Carmel, from Lynn Ann Daya, 1113 N. Pearl St., Shamokin. Married May 22, 2007.

Deborah L. Parrish from Howard L. Parrish, both of 127 W. Girard St., Atlas. Married June 18, 1983.

Marriage licenses

Leonard J. Socko Jr. to Colleen K. Smith, both of 1429 W. Pine St., Coal Township. Issued Sept. 25.

Ryan Lee Fultz, 1081 Schwaben Creek Road, Dornsife, to Heidi Ann Gessner, 142 Creek Road, Dornsife. Issued Sept. 25.

Colby James Schwartz to Haley Elizabeth Hogarty, both of 3124 Upper Road, Shamokin. Issued Sept. 27.

Stephen Anthony Heiser, 498 Lindy Acre Road, Elysburg, to Tricia Renee Beachel, 711 Race St., Shamokin. Issued Sept. 27.

Nicholas J. Graboski to Lori Ann Zanoline, both of 1025 W. Montgomery St., Coal Township. To be issued Sept. 29.

Property transfers

Michael J. Sledgen to Angel M. Sock, Kiley T. Sock, property in Coal Township, $1.

Jeffrey S. Lagerman, Mindy J. Lagerman, to Justin Wagner, Rebecca Wagner, property in Zerbe Township, $189,916.

JP Morgan Chase Bank NA to Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, property in Shamokin, $1.

JP Realty Enterprises LLC to John J. Bradley, Sandra A. Bradley, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

JP Realty Enterprises LLC to JP Realty Enterprises LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Carol D. Uhrin, Paul J. Uhrin, Carol D. Kreischer, to Paul J. Uhrin, Carol D. Uhrin, property in Snydertown, $1.

Constance L. Wilson, Constance L. Wilson-Smith, Garrett B. Smith, to Matthew G. Fetterman, Michelle A. Fetterman, property in Rockefeller Township, $165,825.

Northumberland County Sheriff, Tobias R. Dawson, to Federal National Mortgage Association, property in East Cameron Township, $1,049.49.

Northumberland County Sheriff, John K. Carl Jr., to Federal National Mortgage Association, property in Shamokin.

Philip P. Scicchitano, Mildred M. Scicchitano, Anthony J. Scicchitano, to Anthony J. Scicchitano, property in Coal Township, $1.

Cathleen Eltringham, four parcels N/A, to Muncy Bank and Trust Company, property in Shamokin, Upper Augusta Township, Zerbe Township and Sunbury, $1.

John E. Willis, Patricia V. Willis, to Jess Hadfield, Rebecca Hadfield, property in Coal Township, $85,000.

Tracy L. Whiteknight, Gerald A. Whiteknight, to Edward G. Faulkner, Joshua C. Wolfe, property in Coal Township, $17,200.

Joanne L. Stabinski Jr. (estate), Raymond J. Stabinski (executor), to Colleen Hess, property in Mount Carmel, $19,900.

Randy E. Kehler, Kandis R. Kehler, to Randy E. Kehler, property in Zerbe Township, $1.

Brian A. Bohr (executor), Charles W. Bohr (estate), to Bradley W. Bohr, Alexander Bohr, Barrett D. Bohr, property in Ralpho Township, $8,820.

Angela Mann to Joanne Melnick, property in Mount Carmel, $90,000.

Claire Hazel Jurasich (by agent), Ronald D. Jurasich, (agent), to Michael A. Habowski, property in Mount Carmel, $16,500.

E.L. Carter Holdings LLC to Stephanie Knorr, Ryan Winkler, property in Mount Carmel, $6,500.

Robin Yoder, Sharon Lee Yoder, Frank M. Delorso, Sandra Delorso, Jamie Delorso, to Veronica E. Witmer, property in Shamokin Township, $72,500.

Terry L. Snyder, Dawn A. Snyder, Lana L. Hoover, Dwight D. Snyder and Cami S. Bingaman, to Patrick Jacobs, property in Jackson Township, $156,000.

Deanna M. Rozinski to Barbara Wilk, property in Coal Township, $13,100.

Helen E. Bell (co-executrix), Susan M. Streisel (co-executrix), Susan M. Streifel (co-executrix), Thomas Barsh (estate), to Klinesgrove United Methodist Church, property in Upper Augusta Township and Rush Township, $2,500.

Kenneth A. Clark, Linda A. Clark, to Kimberly A. Pesarchick, property in Ralpho Township, $279,000.

Joyce A. Kerstetter, Joyce A. Cox, Gerald E. Cox, to Bowen Developments LLC, property in Zerbe Township, $14,000.

Suzanne McFadden (executor), Francis McFadden (executor), Mary Ann Eglanski (estate), to Michael D. Sopp Jr., property in Coal Township, $13,000.

ARH Properties LLC to GJS Building Services Inc., property in Mount Carmel, $2,650.

Line Mountain School District to Jeremy A. Strohecker, Sara L. Strohecker, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $25,100.

Shawn Adams, Jodi Lee Adams, to Anthony Anderson, property in Zerbe Township, $3,000.

Brian E. Long, Dolores E. Long, to Brian E. Long, Dolores E. Long, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $1.

Gerald G. Swinehart (estate), Jeffrey A. Swinehart (co-executor), Jane Taylor (co-executor), to William Dale Bender III, Dorothy Brown, property in Herndon, $48,000.

Jeffrey D. Sock, Crystal E. Sock, to Daniel P. Sodergreen, Roberta A. Sodergreen, property in Ralpho Township, $187,000.

Robert C. Ensinger, Susan R. Ensinger, to Giuseppe Gallina, Candy J. Gallina, property in Ralpho Township, $68,750.

Ellen C. Dormuth, Steven Dormuth, Susan R. Ensinger, Robert C. Ensinger, Jane M. Cropf, Thomas F. Cropf Jr., to Giuseppe Gallina, Candy J. Gallina, property in Ralpho Township, $106,250.

Eric J. Blackwell, Michelle M. Blackwell, Michelle M. Henderson, to Eric J. Blackwell, Michelle M. Blackwell, property in Shamokin, $1.

Kyle J. Mirolli to Jack L. Brenner, property in Marion Heights, $3,000.

Timothy P. Katona to William Barrett, Patricia Barrett, property in Ralpho Township, $220,000.

Rosemarie P. Troutman to Lisa Harrison, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Josephine Escanez Troutman to Debra Ann Troutman, Rodney J. Troutman, R. James Troutman, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Donna J. Deitrick, Donna J. Yoncuski, to Jonas Reigle, Margaret Elliott, property in Lower Augusta Township, $87,500.

Julio A. Spallone to Henry G. Catino, Enrico G. Catino, property in Mount Carmel Township, $300.

Northumberland County Sheriff, Beth Ann Shoener, to Wells Fargo Financial Pennsylvania Inc., property in Shamokin, $3,049.78.

NORTHUMBERLAND - The first public forum of the Susquehanna Valley Progressives was held Tuesday evening at the Unitarian Church in Northumberland. Barry Kauffman, executive director of Common Cause Pennsylvania, addressed an audience of about 50 people for about an hour before opening the forum up for discussion.

Kauffman provided the group with a background on Common Cause and then covered a wide variety of topics related to government and elections, including transparency, campaign finance reform, electronic campaign filing and use of ballot referenda. He also spent a great deal of time talking about the Citizens United decision, which opened the floodgates for campaign contributions. He also shared his thoughts on what citizens can do to improve the election process and transparency of government in Pennsylvania.

Kauffman said he was encouraged by the number of attendees for the group's first public forum. "Sometimes you come out and there are only eight to 10 people," he said.

Nicole Faraguna, co-founder of the group and organizer of the event, was pleased with the attendance and thoughtful discussion. "Barry is extremely knowledgeable on issues related to open government and fair elections," he said. "He provided not only a comprehensive summary of the problems that exist in Pennsylvania but ways Common Cause PA is working to solve them and what we as citizens can do."

Attendees came from throughout the Susquehanna Valley, including Northumberland, Union, Dauphin, Lycoming and Snyder counties.

The Susquehanna Valley Progressives will host a free public forum on medical marijuana Oct. 27 at the Front Street Station. The group will welcome a panel of individuals with various backgrounds to share their perspectives on the value and drawbacks of medical marijuana. Guests will include medical experts who can discuss the health aspects as well as patients and parents of children who would benefit from the legalization of medical marijuana.

Susquehanna Valley Progressives recently formed. In October, the group appointed its first set of steering committee members who will lead and guide the organization forward.

Susquehanna Valley Progressives is a nonpartisan organization united for the betterment of the whole community. We envision a community that empowers individuals to be engaged in and educated on the democratic process; promotes equality and appreciation of diversity; improves the living and working standards of all that live in Susquehanna Valley and actively protects our natural world.

Learn more at SVprogress.org.

Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library

SHAMOKIN - The Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library announced memorials received between Aug. 13 and Sept. 15 have been presented for the following people:

Corrine Assiff by Marlene Kaseman and Tom and Margie Donlan.

Anna Laura Belber by Michael, Susan, Erika and Brooke Strausser.

Catherine "Kitty" Brennan by Ken and Anne Marie Pogozelski, Catherine Reed.

Helen Lenker Clark by Barb and Dave Ammerman and Carol Ebersole and family, Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Shamokin-Coal Township Senior Action Center, Shirley Diorio, Catherine Fenix, Bob and Mary Ann Hartman, Tom and Sarann Keyack, Eleanor Kissel, Lou Morris, Chet Purcell, Catherine Reed, Shamokin American Legion Auxiliary Unit No. 73.

Colleen de Manicor by Loretta Brown, Joe and Kandy Dascani and family, Molly Dormer, Frank and Joyce Koczur and family, JoAnn Rodman Long and Robert Long, Dr. and Mrs. Jamie Singzon, Mr. and Mrs. Greg Sutton, Joe Rodman, Nancy, Jim and Abby Jo Rodman, Mary Ann Williams, Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Zarick.

Joseph "Jazz" Diminick by Ed and Nancy Binkoski.

Helen Whytena-Fisher by Gary and Nancy Culton and Marilyn and Carl Dick.

Edward Fitzpatrick by Danny and Sandee Ciesluk and family, William and Shirley (Coleman) Golden.

William J. Forbes by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Frank Fullmer by Marian Buraczeski, Joe and Kandy Dascani and Family, Shamokin Area High School Class of 1972, Janet, Jake and Justin Wachter.

Stanley Graboski by Aaron, Gregory, Jolene, Todd, Jackie and Tom, Danny and Sandee Ciesluk and family, Len and Laney, Mary and Jeff Thew and family, Tom, Lisa, Tommy and Laura Thew.

Edward G. (Bear) Gargilla by Sylvia (Antonelli) Shappell.

Allen "Judy" Grow by Ed and Nancy Binkoski, George Norge A. Dorko and Gere Bonchak, Catherine Fenix, Patty and Ronnie Geist, Kathy Gonsar, Mary Jane Grow and family, Lorraine Halcovich, Dave and Sue Hoffman, Margaret and Frank Konopka and family, Bill and Helen Kuzmick, Attorney and Mrs. Vincent Makowski, Mike, Sue, Erika and Brooke, Don and Shannon Myers, Jim and Janet Povish, Bob Probert and family, Shamokin Area Lions Club, Charmaine and Barry Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Talisesky.

Ann Marie Haddock by Cherie, Bruce and Billy Anskis.

Robert W. Hime by Joe, John and Maria Bressi.

Donald Johns by Phyllis Duzick.

Luke Jones by Shamokin-Coal Township Senior Action Center, Kathy Gonsar, Carol Meisberger, Pepper, William and Terry Persing and family.

Lowell Kahler by Janet Wahosky.

Stanley Kalejta by Joan Brown, John A. Dorko and Family, Alice Dorkoski, Kenneth and Pena Gaydon, Rose Hughes, Frank and Joyce Koczur, Anita and Jim Miller, Steve, Kathy and Daria, Trevorton Patsies, Michael and Joyce Varzally.

Colleen Lauer by Rose Dorko.

Helen Lazor by Nancy McBride.

Russell Lynn Nicodemus by Aqua Pa. Employees.

George P. Pellowski Sr. by Jerome and Mary Jane Barcavage and family.

Justine "Tootie" Picarelli by Theresa and Ron Ramp.

John "Jack" P. Scholl by Pat and Jim Bressi, Bernadette and Steve Miller and family, Eva Rodman.

Mildred Schuck by the Foura family.

Daniel J. Seroski by Mt. Carmel Disabled Veterans Chapter No. 129.

Peggy Smink by Joan Brown, Larry and Joann Diorio, Alice Dorkoski, Rosann and Tom Hall, Frank and Joyce Koczur and family, Harry and Andrea Reed and Jordan, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Talisesky.

John F. Smith by Bill, Sheila and Shirley Pavelko, Pepper, Denise Yermalovich, Ron and Kathy Zyla.

Eugenia A. "Jean" Sopp by Kathy and Abby James, Shamokin High School Class of 1945, Darve Jr., Sheri and Christopher Tobias, Darwin III and Krisa Tobias, Johnathan and Erica Tobias and Family, Greg and Donna Wisloski and Darwin "Yut" Tobias and Roxy Tobias.

Gus Veach by George Dorko and Gere Bonchak, Catherine Fenix.

Esther Wesoloski by Shamokin High School Class of 1944.

John Wilson by Mary Ann Bixler, Don Manley Sr. and Brenda Martin and Family, Kathy Gonsar, the Wilson girls: Arlene and Nancy.

Joseph Yermalovich Sr. by Carol Meisberger.

Memorial fund

John Beecroft by Mr. and Mrs. Edward Madden.

Rick Casterline by Dave, Tina and Veronica Moore.

Edward Fitzpatrick by Theresa Egick.

Allen "Judy" Grow by Bob and Suzanne Starke.

Luke Jones by Joyce Koczur.

Stanley Kalejta by Diane "Cookie" Ciocco.

Sandra Nestico by V.C.D.

Justine Picarelli by Dorothy Doncheski.

Mildred Pochakilo by Maria Edmondson, Ben Frank.

Charlie Tamkus by Mom, Dad and family.

In honor of

Irvin Liachowitz by Michael and Linda Dormer, Joanne and Sandra Fishman, Dorothy Goodman, the Martini family.

Honor a loved one and place a permanent memorial in the Library Century Club.

Shamokin-Coal Township

Tickets are on sale until Oct. 10 for the Harvest Dinner Dance at Masser's Banquet Hall Oct. 22. Cost is $15, transportation is free.

Membership dues for 2014 is $8 and can be paid 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays at the center or through the mail.

Monday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; poker, 9:30 a.m.; executive board meeting, 10:30 a.m.; unlucky 7's, noon.

Tuesday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; walk-a-mile, 9:30 a.m.; game show, 11 a.m.; bridge, noon; last day to get farmers market voucher checks.

Wednesday - Morning cards and games, 8:30 a.m.; bridge lessons, 9:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 9:30 a.m.; pinochle and Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; VNA flu shots, 9 to 11 a.m.; walk-a-mile, 9:30 a.m.; members meeting, 10:30 a.m.; nickel bingo, noon.

Friday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; yoga, 9:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 10:30 a.m.; game show, 11 a.m.; nickel bingo, noon.

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

Mount Carmel

Monday - Coffee and gab, 10 a.m.; VNA flu shots, 9 to 11 a.m.; exercise/games, 10:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; bean bag toss, 12:30 p.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Tuesday - Coffee, 9:30 a.m.; Wii, 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle and unlucky 7s, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Morning cup of coffee, 9:30 a.m.; officers meeting, 10 a.m.; exercise/games, 10:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; members meeting with bingo following, 1 p.m.

Thursday - Morning coffee and the news, 9:30 a.m.; Wii Wheel of Fortune; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle, 12:30 p.m.; unlucky 7's.

Friday - Coffee and gab, 9:30 a.m.; Jennifer from VNA speaking on "Breast cancer awareness," 10:30 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Kulpmont

Monday - Coffee and gab in the morning; bean bag, 10:30 a.m.; Wii, 11 a.m.; Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Music, gab and coffee in the morning; Wii and cards, noon.

Wednesday - Exercise and gab in the morning; Wii, 10 a.m.; LCR, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Music and coffee in the morning; members meeting with bingo following, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Bean bag in the morning; Wii, 10 a.m.; Tara Venna from Family Home speaking on "Bullying," noon; nickel bingo after talk.

Centralia-Wilburton

Monday - Coffee and snacks, 9 a.m.; current event, 10:30 a.m.; trivia, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Exercise with Carol, 10 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Panera Bread day; advisory board meeting, 10:30 a.m.; jackpot bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Center closed; Knoebels Covered Bridge Festival.

Friday - Center closed.

Elysburg

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

Wednesday - Healthy steps, 8:30 a.m.; royal rummy, 10:30 a.m.; bingo, noon.

Friday - Crafts, 9:30 a.m.; line dancing, 9:30 a.m.; pinochle, noon.

Trevorton

Monday - Breakfast, 8:30 a.m.; NCAAA Protective Services, 9 a.m.; Wii bowling, 9:30 a.m.; exercise, 10 a.m.; Walmart, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; unlucky 7's, 12:30 p.m.; evening card party, 7 p.m.

Tuesday - Family Home Medical blood sugar/blood pressure screening, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.; Scrabble, 10:30 a.m.; pinochle, 12;30 p.m.; evening bingo, 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Exercise, 9:30 a.m.; members meeting, 10 a.m.; CSFP box distribution, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 10 Keys class, "Combat depression," 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Exercise, 10 a.m.; pinochle, 10:30 a.m.; trip.

Friday - Wii games, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.; exercise, 10:30 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

SHAMOKIN - Saturday's beautiful weather matched the warmth in the hearts of those who organized and attended an all-day concert for a local soldier recovering from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.

Eight bands performed between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. at Claude Kehler Memorial Community Park on Arch Street, while vendors sold various food, beverages, craft items and commemorative T-shirts, decals and wristbands. Gift baskets and certificates donated by individuals and local businesses were chanced off and games of chance, kids' games and bounce houses also were available.

Adult admission to the concert was $10.

All proceeds from the event went toward medical costs for Cory Thompson, 29, a staff sergeant who served four tours of duty in the Middle East and is a member of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and The Villains Motorcycle Club.

He suffered critical injuries July 13 in a motorcycle-Jeep accident on Route 61 near the Wayside Inn.

Thompson made two appearances at the concert and also found time in between to visit the Bloomsburg Fair to attend the Sunset Ice Cream PA State Championship Demolition Derby. Thompson's friend, Kevin Mains, of Mount Carmel, competed in the derby in a 2000 Dodge Neon and pledged his winnings to the soldier. Mains' car contains dozens of signatures from Thompson well-wishers and the insignia of staff sergeant.

Mains' standing was was not available at press time.

Overwhelmed

Thompson's family members and friends were overwhelmed at the support and donations provided at Saturday's concert and previous fund-raising events.

His mother, Andrea Rollman, stated, "I can't thank people enough for their love and support for Cory. It's been overwhelming. It just goes to show that Shamokin is a nice community to live in and its residents really care about each other."

Thompson's sister, Kiera Zarick, added, "We got just about everything donated for today's event and our family is forever grateful to everyone who has supported Cory since the accident. We've received gifts and monetary donations from people we don't even know. It's been amazing."

Other immediate family members assisting at the fundraiser were Thompson's sister, Ciana Rollman; his brother, Quinn Rollman; stepfather, John Rollman, and brother-in-law, Ryan Zarick.

Forrest Curran, one of the chief organizers of the concert, thanked everyone for their assistance and particularly praised the efforts of committee members Mike Kreski, Wendy Kleman, Rhonda Shepard and Brandy Dobson, Coal City Revitalization, all the band members and city officials for donating the use of the park.

Bands donating their time were Haunted By Insanity, Victoria Sherman, Bush Pounders, 4 Car Pile-Up, Red Halo, U.N. Leashed, Rock Street Park and Deuce.

Support

Thompson's cousin, Brian Knarr, of Shamokin, said, "I came here to support not only a family member, but a man who was proud to serve his country. There are a lot of good people here today."

Tom Kane, of Coal Township, said "I came to support my good friend Cory and to listen to live music."

His wife, Marla Kane, added, "It's good to see a small community come together to support one of their own. It shows that people in the Shamokin area have a true and pure heart."

Terry O'Shea, owner-operator of O'Shea's Pub on East Independence Street, was happy to support his friend who patronized his bar before the accident. "It's good to see an event like this," he said. "I held an event at my bar a couple weeks ago to benefit Cory. He knows we love him. Everybody in town seems to love him."

Motorcyclist William Krebs, of Burnside, added, "I came here to support a local veteran who was in a bad accident."

Fellow motorcyclist John Feese, of Ranshaw, stated, "I support Cory 100 percent and I hope he gets better. This is one way we can pay him back for serving his country."

Krebs' mother, Dorothy Krebs, of Burnside, commented, "I wanted to help out Cory so money can be raised to help defray some of his medical bills. He keeps getting better and he must stay strong."

Surgeries

Thompson was injured when the motorcycle he was riding was rear ended by a Jeep driven by a 17-year-old Shamokin female, who was not identified by police because of her age. He was originally in critical condition, and his family was told by doctors early on there was "nothing they could do" about his injuries, which included a badly damaged liver and internal bleeding.

But Thompson survived through multiple surgeries and procedures. He spent more than seven weeks at the Geisinger HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, Danville, before returning home Sept. 4.

SUNBURY - Two days of property assessment appeals that could impact school districts throughout Northumberland County begin Monday in county court.

While appeals are common, county chief assessor Al Bressi said these appeals are unprecedented in his 16 years in the job in that they're being sought, not by the property owners, but by a taxing body: Warrior Run School District.

The district wants 61 properties reassessed based on their recent selling prices.

Seeking an assessment that's based on current market value may sound logical, Bressi said, but the problem is the properties selected all have been sold in the last three years, while the last county property reassessment was in 1972.

Also, the properties involved were chosen, he said, because they are all assessed at less than 10 percent of their recent sale prices.

He said he's not questioning the district's right to appeal, but his concern is the narrowed selection.

"It's uniformly wrong," he said. "To make it right, you'd have to reassess all properties" in the county.

That's a suggestion that's often made but quickly passed over because of the cost and the dramatic impact it would have on taxes.

If the appeals are granted and certain property owners pay three or four times what most of the other county property owners are paying, it's simply not fair, Bressi said.

But if Warrior Run is successful? "I see a multitude of appeals from all the other taxing (bodies)" in the county, he said.

"My job is to continue to keep uniformity with an assessment that's too old," he added.

Disparity of value

The fact that Warrior Run reaches into three counties impacts the situation, said Superintendent Dr. John Kurelja. There is a great disparity with the fair market values currently being calculated.

"In the three counties we serve, Northumberland, Union and Montour counties, Northumberland is the only one that hasn't done a reassessment recently," Kurelja said. "The other counties did theirs in 2006, and those properties are much closer to the market values."

Since the district does not have the authority to ask for reassessment, they are going the route of the reverse appeal - a move Kurelja said could be more prevalent in coming years.

"I'm sure that more districts will be doing this, given the tough financial times school districts are facing," he said.

An example

Bressi gave an example from a Delaware Township property involved in the Warrior Run appeal.

The property is currently assessed at $9,450. The assessed value is divided by the "common level ratio" of .303 to produce a fair market value of $31,188.

But that property recently sold for $129,000, which, when multiplied by the common level ratio, would put its assessed value at $39,087, a difference of $29,637. That's what the school district is seeking.

Paying the combined 89 mills in Warrior Run, Delaware Township and county real estate taxes at the current assessed value of $9,450 produces a tax bill of $841.05 ($9,450 divided by 1,000 times 89). But using the $39,087 assessed value ($39,087 divided by 1,000 times 89) raises the tax bill to $3,478.74 - more than four times the original amount.

"That's a pretty big difference," Kurelja acknowledges. "If you build a home in the district, those tax rates are much more accurate than someone that just buys a home for the lower price and renovates it."

Some might call the reverse appeal "reassessment on the go," but Kurelja would rather see a full reassessment undertaken.

"The problem with reverse appeal is that it targets the properties that were recently sold, but there are a lot of properties that we cannot touch because they haven't been on the market," he said. "With reassessment, we could say with confidence that this is the fair market value of the property."

The appeals will be heard by the county assessment appeal board, which is comprised of the three county commissioners.

Normally, decisions are made fairly quickly, in five to eight days, but Bressi isn't sure for this high-profile case if it might be longer.

The school district or the property owner can appeal the decision to common pleas court within 30 days.

The properties involve a mix of agricultural, commercial, residential and vacant properties, Bressi said. Ten minutes of testimony, which can include comments from the property owners, is granted for each appeal.

When contacted Friday, Commissioner Stephen Bridy said, "We will listen to all the evidence and make a decision to the best of our abilities."

At the Sept. 16 commissioners' meeting, Bridy opposed countywide reassessment because he believes it would be too costly and there would be no way of "getting it right."

Bridy, who estimated the cost at $3 million, said the county doesn't have the ability to assess a fee on every taxpayer for reassessment purposes. Although he agreed that most properties in the county are under assessed, he said interest rates and inflation costs would skyrocket.

Rock slide repair begins Monday

MONTOURSVILLE - Work on an $889,411 rock slide fence repair project on Route 147 and Route 4012 will resume Monday, and a detour for Route 4012 will be implemented.

No work was performed during the week of Sept. 22 due to the Bloomsburg Fair.

The detour, which uses Route 61 and Route 4009 (Black Mill Road) will be in effect about a month.

A width restriction of 10 feet will start at that time on Route 147 but both lanes will remain open to traffic. Use caution while traveling through the work zones and expect delays.

The work includes rock slide fence repair, inlets, cross pipe, new barrier, shoulder widening and rock removal. The work on Route 147 will take place south of the intersection with Route 61 and continue to the intersection with Route 4018. The work on Route 4012 will take place between Reagan Street and Black Mill Road.

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 700 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website.

Free developmental screening at SCA

CATAWISSA RR - A free developmental screening for three- and four-year-old children who are residents of the Southern Columbia Area School District is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Oct. 29 at the G.C. Hartman Elementary Center.

The screening will cover hearing, speech, vision, gross and fine motor skills, personal and social skills, adaptive behavior, cognitive skills and height and weight.

For an appointment or more information, contact the school district at 570-356-3503.

This month, I had the chance to make the very best kind of Pottsville-Paris connection.

I paid a visit to my sister, Jane Graup, who, for a month, left Schuylkill County to take up residence in southwest France. She is living in Soreze, a village located between Toulouse and Albi, in a region rich in wine, good food, beauty and history.

Soreze sits at the foot of Montagne noire - Black Mountain - whose crest and slopes were inhabited from prehistoric times until the 13th century. The Romans, who settled in the region, recognized the strategic importance of the mountain and established on its crest an oppidum, an enclosed mountaintop fortress offering protection and a 360-degree view over the surrounding countryside.

Early in the 13th century, the fortress was destroyed and the remaining population moved to the foot of the mountain to the small village of Soreze, clustered around a Benedictine Abbey founded in the eighth century.

All that happened long ago. Today, Soreze is a sleepy place where shutters are closed at dusk and the village streets turned over to a pack of wild cats that insolently stare down the rare passer-by from atop municipal garbage cans.

The village also has an elegant hotel with a vast park, housed in what was once a royal military academy. There is an elementary school, a pharmacy, three doctors, a very well-stocked supermarket, restaurants, cafes and, of course, bakeries where crusty baguettes are baked daily for the village's 2,700 inhabitants.

On the whole, Soreze seems a very pleasant place to live if you like to turn in early and rise at dawn, which, based on street noises, is what most people do.

Early in the morning, they hurry alongside the imposing stone buildings of the royal academy and past the half-timbered facades of houses lining the narrow streets, stone and wood invested with hundreds of years of history.

Tourists with time to linger can stop to read commemorative plaques dedicated to village notables, a quaint version of local history. Or they can climb to the top of Black Mountain, where events eight-centuries old still resonate today.

There they'll find the ruins of the oppidum destroyed at the beginning of the 13th century. At that time, southwest France was in turmoil, the explosive mix of religion and politics having led to war.

Divided in two, France had a king in the north and, in the south in a region known as Languedoc many powerful and independent lords ruled over wealthy city-states. In the north, the king managed to subdue his vassals; in Languedoc, the aristocracy escaped his control. Embracing heretical beliefs, they also escaped the control of the Catholic church.

One of those lords, the Count of Toulouse, refused to obey an emissary of the pope sent to demand obedience to the church's teachings. The count was excommunicated. The papal emissary was murdered.

In 1208, in response, Pope Innocent III called for a crusade against this new kind of "infidel," men and women who claimed to be Christian but who rejected the sacraments and the pomp of the Catholic church. Once they became victims of persecution, residents of the rich cities of the South sought refuge in a string of mountain fortresses stretching across Languedoc, from the Rhone River west to the Pyrenees Mountains.

The crusaders sent to fight them received the same favors from the pope as those who had fought in the Holy Land. This time, they did not cross the sea to Jerusalem but set about destroying the mountain citadels, joining forces with powerful local bishops and archbishops, more warrior than priest.

In that way, the mountaintop fortress above Soreze was reduced to rubble. With its high walls and panoramic view, it had the potential to become a refuge for heretics seeking to flee the marauding crusaders, mostly barons from northern France.

While traveling with my sister, I was constantly reminded of this long ago conflict between the Catholic church and a group of heretics desirous to return to a purer form of Christianity.

Although today they are known as "Cathars," a term derived from the Greek word for purity, they called themselves "good men" and "good women," sometimes they simply called themselves "friends." They had no churches or sacraments outside of the laying on of hands. And as they considered dying a liberation from the evils of this world, they resisted, literally, to the death.

Many Cathars were members of the aristocracy, many were protected by powerful lords and although the pretext for fighting was religion, politics played an equally important role.

In 1226, the French King Louis VIII undertook a second crusade against the seemingly unconquerable heretics, meeting with partial success: the powerful cities of Languedoc fell under royal control.

In the end, the church and the king were victorious and this is still reflected in architecture and in the lay of the land. The city of Albi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, became a stronghold of an aggressive and triumphant church. Both its massive archbishop's palace and its cathedral, more fortress than church, attest to this. Nearby in the Pyrenees Mountains, many rocky peaks are crowned by the ruins of a fortress, once home to defiant heretics.

One of the last to fall was Montsegur. In 1244, after a 10-month siege, 10,000 royal troops could finally claim victory against the 100 warriors and several hundred heretics who inhabited the citadel. Those who renounced their faith were spared. The more than 200 who did not were burned to death. Legend has it they willingly mounted their funeral pyre.

A century later, another crusade traversed France. This one, known as "the Shepherd's Crusade," was led by shepherds and vagrants who, in the name of their god, went on a rampage, killing Jews and destroying more than 100 Jewish communities in the South of France. Religious turmoil also marked the second half of the 16th century, when bloody conflicts divided French Catholics and Protestants during a series of eight religious wars.

While with my sister, checking the news, I read about modern warriors killing and destroying in the name of yet another god. Now as then, religion and politics do not mix. History has shown us, over and over again, what lethal partners they make. Meanwhile, I have the joy of my sister's company as we eat, drink, and be merry, for we never know what tomorrow may hold.

(Honicker can be reached at honicker.republican herald@gmail.com)

RUSH TOWNSHIP - A 48-year-old Mount Carmel man suffered multiple injuries Saturday night when his sport utility vehicle crashed through a fence, descended an embankment and overturned into a pasture at the Neiswender farm along Route 54 between Elysburg and Riverside.

State police at Stonington reported Robert Todisco, of 452 W. Third St., was injured in the 10 p.m. crash and transported by ambulance to Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. A nursing supervisor said a condition was not available for Todisco Sunday night.

According to Trooper Mark Adams, Todisco was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Equinox east when his vehicle traveled onto rumble strips along the edge of the road. Adams said Todisco then pulled his vehicle back onto the travel lane, but lost control.

Police said the Equinox traveled across Route 54 before crashing through a fence, descending a 75-foot embankment and coming to rest in a pasture.

Todisco was trapped in the vehicle for more than 45 minutes, forcing rescue personnel from Elysburg and Riverside to cut open the roof to extricate the victim. Rescue personnel carried Todisco up a steep embankment to an awaiting ambulance.

Police said Todisco, who was wearing a seat belt, was cited for failure to drive in a single lane.

The following landlord/tenant claims or judgments were filed in magisterial district court:

Judge John Gembic III, Shamokin

David Bango, of Kulpmont, against Patrick Shinskie, Michael Shinskie and Jeanette Kitchin, all of Shamokin, for $4,400, filed Sept. 25. A hearing is scheduled for Oct. 9.

Brenda Pomponio, of Shamokin, against Thomas Quinn, of Shamokin, no judgment awarded Sept. 22.

Judge Hugh Jones, Mount Carmel

Janet Schoppy, of Danville, awarded $912.45 on Sept. 25 from Anthony Ceisnolewvicz, of Mount Carmel, for rent in arrears.

Robert Varano and Wendy Cole, of Mount Carmel, against Jocelyn Nicole Wywadis, of Mount Carmel, for $4,850, filed Sept. 24. A hearing is scheduled for Oct. 9.

Kerry Blum, of Martins Creek, against Allyson Arnold, of Mount Carmel, for $1,300, filed Sept. 22. A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 30.

Kerry Blum, of Martins Creek, against Patricia Desrosiers and Eric Desrosiers, of Mount Carmel, for $1,400, filed Sept. 22. A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 30.

Tracy McLeod, of Kulpmont, against Robert L. Miller Jr., of Kulpmont, no claim amount, filed Sept. 22. A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 30.

Apartments and Acquisitions, of Mount Carmel, against Cynthia Hayes, of Mount Carmel, for $2,000, filed Sept. 22. A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 30.

Turkey Trot at three locations

DANVILLE - The fifth annual Geisinger Turkey Trot 5K Walk and Fun Run will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22 at three locations.

The races will begin at Geisinger Medical Center Hospital for Advanced Medicine (HfAM) in Danville; Nay Aug Park in Scranton and Geisinger-Gray's Woods in Port Matilda.

The cost is $20 for pre-registered runners by Nov. 12. Runners will receive a race T-shirt. Proceeds from the Turkey Trot benefit Children's Miracle Network at Geisinger.

Register online at events.geisinger.org or by calling 1.800.322.5437.

MAHANOY TOWNSHIP - A 37-year-old Sheppton woman has been charged by state police at Frackville with homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence relating to a March 29 accident that claimed the life of a 62-year-old Shenandoah man.

Shirl Marie Mumie was arrested Friday at her residence and committed to Schuylkill County Prison in Pottsville in lieu of $100,000 cash bail set by on-call Magisterial District Judge James K. Reilly of Pottsville.

In addition to the homicide by vehicle offense, Mumie is charged with aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI, involuntary manslaughter, drug possession offenses and summary traffic violations.

Mumie was charged in connection with the death of James Hossler.

Police said Mumie was driving a 1997 Chevrolet C/K 1500 pickup truck east on Route 54 in Mahanoy Township at 12:31 a.m. when she lost control of her vehicle, which crossed the center line and hit Hossler's 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier head-on.

Mumie was flown by Life Flight helicopter to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville after suffering non-life threatening injuries in the crash.

SCOTT TOWNSHIP - A pursuit by state police of a Bloomsburg man early Saturday morning along Interstate 80 came to a wild end when the defendant attempted to assault a trooper whose firearm was discharged, causing a bullet to strike the accused in the wrist.

State police at Bloomsburg said William Anthony Tyler, 20, of 419 E. Anthony Ave., faces multiple charges including aggravated assault in connection with incidents that began shortly after 1:30 a.m. in Dennison Township in Luzerne County and culminated at the Lightstreet exit in Columbia County.

Troopers from the Hazleton barracks were monitoring traffic on Interstate 80 westbound when they observed a vehicle operated by Tyler with an equipment violation. The troopers then pulled onto the highway and traveled west behind Tyler's vehicle before initiating a traffic stop.

Tyler pulled his vehicle onto the right berm and slowed down, but never came to a complete stop before pulling back onto the highway and accelerating at a high rate of speed.

Ahead of the pursuit, a patrol unit was summoned to deploy stop-sticks across the highway in anticipation of Tyler's vehicle passing through the area. Tyler's vehicle ran over the stop sticks, but continued west before exiting the interstate at the Lightstreet exit to travel south on Route 487.

Police said at the beginning section of the off-ramp, the lead patrol unit initiated a PIT (precision immobilization technique maneuver, which caused Tyler's vehicle to fishtail and crash into a concrete barrier.

Tyler then exited his vehicle and defied verbal commands by troopers to stop. He fled on foot toward Route 487, prompting troopers to deploy Taser devices in Tyler's direction, but they had no affect on him.

Police said Tyler continued to resist commands to stop and engaged in a struggle with a trooper, who discharged his firearm, causing a bullet to strike Tyler in the wrist.

But Tyler still did not surrender to police and attempted to run away before falling forward and being apprehended.

Police said approximately four pounds of marijuana and five pints of liquid codeine syrup were found in Tyler's vehicle.

In addition to aggravated assault, Tyler, who is incarcerated at Columbia County Prison in Bloomsburg, has been charged with fleeing and eluding police, resisting arrest, drug violations and other offenses.

ELYSBURG - Starting next season, visitors to Knoebels Amusement Resort will be greeted by the "Impulse" when they enter the park from the main parking lot.

The Knoebels family welcomed the public to an official groundbreaking ceremony Monday morning for what is billed as a "tower speed coaster." It is the first major project of the fourth generation of the Knoebels family.

Approximately 50 people, including news media, Knoebels staff and employees and mascots Cosmo and Dexter, gathered near the construction site which once was once the home of the Bumper Boats and the Boat Tag game.

Those attractions have already been removed. In their place, at least temporarily, is a fenced-in, backfilled area that is the future home of the new thrill ride.

The steel roller coaster is expected to be open at the start of the 2015 season. It features more than 2,000 feet of track, a 98-foot high chain-lift hill, a 90-degree free-fall drop, several inversions and speeds topping 55 miles per hour. Impulse will have three eight-passenger roller coaster cars.

When Dick Knoebel welcomed all to the 10 a.m. event, he was surrounded by his brother, Buddy, and the fourth generation of Knoebels who spearheaded the project - Dick's sons, Brian and Rick, and Buddy's son, Trevor.

Both Dick and Buddy Knoebel praised the fourth generation for "electing to take this project and run with it."

Buddy said the family feels blessed that the fourth generation is carrying on the park tradition. He also commended Knoebels' dedicated staff and employees.

Brian Knoebel noted that both the Bumper Boats and Boat Tag, though having served the park well, have experienced a decline in ridership over the years.

"Guests have asked for an exciting steel coaster to complement the well-known wooden coasters," Brian said.

The Knoebels family heard the request loud and clear.

"We are going to roll you, twist you and turn you upside down," Brian said.

Bill Anskis Company Inc., of Elysburg, has been awarded the contract to build the foundation and erect the steel ride. Anskis is scheduled to start work on the foundation next month. This first phase of the project is expected to be finished by January.

Starting in December, shipping containers from Zierer Karusell Coaster Design and Fabrication, of Germany, will arrive with pieces of the coaster.

The construction of the coaster itself will be a "collective effort between Anskis and the Knoebels in-house staff," Trevor said.

Trevor Knoebel, on behalf of himself and his cousins Brian and Rick, thanked "our dads and aunt (Leanna Muscato) for their guidance, faith and trust in our generation."

After the groundbreaking and photo ops, the three Knoebel cousins handed out tickets for the Impulse. The tickets are good for one ride.

To receive updates on the Impulse through its various stages of construction, visit the Knoebels website, Facebook page and Twitter.

In addition to Bill Anskis Co. Inc. and Zierer Karusell Coaster Design and Fabrication, Knoebels Amusement Resort expressed appreciation to Advanced Engineers, Baer Wolfe Architects, KPI Technology, Michael Catino, First Columbia Bank & Trust Co., Ingenieurbuero Stengel and subcontractors Richard C. Parsons & Associates, A.R. Sokol and Sons Excavating, McCrossin Foundations and C&D Rigging Inc. Other businesses include Apallo Fence Co., Reidinger's Trucking, Friedman Electric and Knoebel Lumber.

SUNBURY - A former teacher and member of Shamokin Area School Board pleaded guilty Monday to possession of cocaine and was placed on probation for one year.

Daniel K. Venn, 64, of 1545 W. Nelson St., Coal Township, was sentenced on the misdemeanor offense by Judge Charles Saylor after entering a plea agreement with the attorney general's office.

In addition to probation, Venn was ordered to pay a $250 fine plus costs and undergo a drug and alcohol evaluation.

An additional misdemeanor of criminal conspiracy was not prosecuted.

Venn was represented by Shamokin attorney Vincent V. Rovito Jr., who told the judge his client was under stress from paying his kids' college tuition when the offenses were committed.

Assistant district attorney Michael Toomey represented the commonwealth.

Venn was charged in March by Shamokin Cpl. Bryan Primerano and Ageny David Jordan of the state Attorney General's Office. He was accused of obtaining cocaine at various times between the summer of 2008 and June 2013 and of conspiring with others to purchase or obtain cocaine from Darryl Kashner, of Coal Township, and several other people apprehended in a September 2013 drug raid stemming from a statewide grand jury investigation.

In November 2012, a grand jury brought charges against several individuals for trafficking cocaine and heroin in Northumberland County between January 2010 and July 2013. In the investigation, several witnesses testified that Kashner was a supplier and distributor. Court documents show Venn was one of the people who testified in front of the grand jury.

A lifetime resident of Coal Township, Venn was employed by Shamokin Area School District as an industrial arts teacher.

During his tenure, he served as a department chairperson for the technical education department and a class adviser. He retired from the district in 2006 after 34 years of employment.

He was also a wrestling coach for many years at all levels, from elementary to varsity, and the proprietor of a successful carpet cleaning business for 19 years.

In 2007, Venn became a candidate for the Shamokin Area School Board with four other individuals, running as a slate called the "Committee for Quality Education." Venn and three of the four other candidates successfully won their campaigns and sat on the board from 2007 to 2011.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Ruth Romanoski, president, opened the September meeting of the Rainbow Club of Our Lady of Hope Church. The ministry prayer was recited, and the Over 50 song was sung.

Secretary Dolly Yocum reported on the previous month's meeting. The minutes were approved and filed. Because Florence Verano was absent, there was no treasurer's report.

Plans are under way for a trip Nov. 13 to the Dutch Apple. Members were told payment for the trip is due. On Sept. 18, members saw "Mame" at the Allenberry Playhouse.

The health report was given by Romanoski. The club asked for prayers for Joe Dobson, Theresa and Howie Sandri and Catherine Fenix.

Romanoski read a letter from the Harrisburg ministry about club changes. A representative will attend a future meeting. There will be no Mass at Harrisburg this year.

There will be no meeting in October because of the planned Chinese auction. Money for the Christmas trip is now due.

The Christmas party will be held Sunday, Dec. 14 at Original Italian Pizza restaurant in Shamokin. There will be a $5 gift exchange.

The attendance award was won by Barbara Yuricich.

Romanoski closed the meeting with prayers.

Bingo was played.