Air Force Airman 1st Class Drew Renn graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Renn is a son of Terri Brady of Miller Road, and Douglas Renn, both of Sunbury.

He is a 2009 graduate of Shikellamy High School.

Pennies for Playground drive starts

CATAWISSA RR - A committee of Southern Columbia Area parents is helping students organize a penny drive in each classroom to raise the necessary funds to update the playground equipment at G.C. Hartman Elementary School.

Pennies for Our Playground, which is solely supported through fundraisers and donations from area businesses, hopes to raise $30,000 so the students can enjoy the equipment they have worked to build.

Donations can send it to Union National Bank, 1071 Numidia Drive, PO Box 98, Numidia 17858, Attention: Pennies for Our Playground.

Ashland ornament available

ASHLAND - Ashland Downtown Inc. has released its second limited-edition Christmas ornament. This year's ornament shows Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn wagon with bags of presents and a bag filled with coal, signifying Ashland's coal mining heritage. Each ornament is trimmed in 22-karat gold and is individually numbered.

Each ornament in a gift box is $15, with an optional display stand available for $2.

To order or for more information, call the ADI office at 875-3571.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Brent J. Fisher, son of Marlene and Joseph Fisher of Den Mar Gardens, has earned a Master of Music in choral conducting and music education degrees from Florida State University with an overall grade-point average of 4.0.

Fisher has chosen to seek advanced degrees in these areas of music because he believes that the choral conductor must be an educator as well as a performer and must have a thorough knowledge of vocal pedagogy. During the summer of 2012, he traveled to London, England, where he completed his research and presented a conducting recital consisting of choral works by Mozart, Mendelssohn, Hogan, Britten, Whitacre and Mäntyjärvi. His thesis on performance practice of 21st century choral music gained superiorrecognition from the FSU College of Music and the Royal College of Music faculties. Fisher now plans to pursue the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral conducting.

His choral experience includes working with ages of all singers through university, public school, church and community choirs. He is currently choir director with the Cumberland Valley School District in Mechanicsburg, Pa. Brent has appeared as a guest conductor and lecturer in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Florida.

A 2008 magna cum laude graduate of Pennsylvania State University, Fisher earned a Bachelor of Science in choral music education degree and the Bachelor of Music in flute performance degree. He is a 2003 graduate of Mount Carmel Area Junior-Senior High School.

SHAMOKIN - Children and parents alike are invited to a free event, An Ornamental Ordeal, Saturday at the Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library.

The event is ponsored by the nonprofit group Coal City Revitalization Inc.

Children will create handmade ornaments to decorate a pair of Christmas trees that will be donated to Mountain View: A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Coal Township Elderly High Rise for residents to enjoy.

All supplies will be provided by Coal City, as will cookies, hot cocoa and coffee.

A visit from Santa Claus himself should get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Photos with the big guy are free. Adults should bring a camera, and kids should bring their wish lists.

Volunteers will be on hand to help stoke children's creativity, providing ideas and encouraging the children while assisting with cutting and gluing and such.

All children must be accompanied by an adult. This is not a day care event.

All children will be encouraged to make at least two ornaments, one of which they can take home for their own trees.

An Ornamental Ordeal, a free event, will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the library's second floor at 210 E. Independence St. For more information, visit Coal City Revitalization on Facebook.

Happy holidays! I've been as busy an elf preparing this column to showcase December events in the Susquehanna River Valley.

Our downtowns are full of events. Milton celebrates "Downtown in December" with a tree-lighting tonight and a model train museum open weekends through Dec. 30. Lewisburg's Late Shopper's Night is also tonight, and the borough's Victorian parade is Saturday, with a free holiday movie to follow at the Campus Theatre.

Mifflinburg hosts its outdoor authentic German Christkindl Market Dec. 13 to 15.

Danville's Iron Heritage Festival hosts a holiday house tour, Dec. 15 and 16, offering ticket holders the opportunity to visit six Danville homes, including that of the founder's father, Daniel Montgomery, which features a display, "Christmas During the Civil War."

Just outside Watsontown, attend the Christmas candlelight service at the historic Warrior Run Church Saturday.

Sunbury's Zion Lutheran Church hosts the Susquehanna Valley Chorale's Winter Concert, Saturday and Sunday. The Paragon Ragtime Orchestra is live at the Campus Theatre Sunday, with performances to accompany Buster Keaton's film "The General" and an introduction of the film short, "The Night Before Christmas," a Thomas Edison studio film. The internationally renowned Vienna Boys Choir will perform at Bucknell University's Weis Performing Arts Center Tuesday.

Winter holidays are all about the kids. This December, children can make natural ornaments at R.B. Winter State Park through Saturday; make a gingerbread house at Elizabeth's An American Bistro in Lewisburg Wednesday; attend Children's Holidays with the Arts at the Slifer House Museum or the Paper Bag Players children's musical production at the Weis Performing Art Center on Dec. 15, and enjoy Thank You Day at the Children's Museum in Bloomsburg Dec. 22 with cocoa, cookies, holiday music and make-and-take crafts.

We urge everyone in the Susquehanna River Valley to support area and family-owned businesses throughout the upcoming holiday season. Find unique or handmade gifts at local shops, businesses, art galleries, wineries, antique shops or auctions. Dine with visiting friends or family at area coffee shops, pubs and restaurants.

For more information on these and other holiday events, go to VisitCentralPA.org; call us at 524-7234 or stop by our Visitor Information Center. Get our mobile apps for your smartphone at VisitCentralPA.org/mobile.

(Andrew Miller is executive director of the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau.)

MOUNT CARMEL - A local church will open its doors for the holiday season to share with the community the traditions of a Ukrainian Christmas Eve celebration.

SS Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church will present its first community Christmas pageant at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16 in the church.

"You can never celebrate Christmas enough, and we welcome everyone to come, learn about our traditions and celebrate with us," the very Rev. Michael Hutsko, pastor, said.

Rehearsals are currently under way with 25 young parishioners working on two different shows that will be tied together, a live nativity scene and the depiction of a traditional Ukrainian Christmas Eve dinner, with 12 meatless dishes including "kutya," a sweet grain pudding served and used in the dinner's tradition.

"In the old days, they would take a piece of the kutya and throw it on the ceiling," said pageant director Ed Cuff. "The longer it would stick would give you more good luck in the coming year."

Cuff will be assisted by the church's religious education teachers, Christine Bogner, Michelle Forti, Gene and Amy LaPoint and Ed Teevan.

Rev. Hutsko said the pageant idea started in his former parish in Minersville and became an overwhelming success.

"There was a lot of activity back then, but we would fill the hall of St. Nicholas Church in Primrose with everyone celebrating the season," Hutsko said. "After a couple of years of doing it for our parishioners here, I wanted to bring everyone together in the community for it."

With that, the plans were put in motion for the pageant with not only the children performing, but also about 12 members of the parish's choir, which will perform American and traditional Ukrainian Christmas carols.

"We will also have members of the Penn State Blue Band performing - a brass ensemble with music that will correlate with the play," Hutsko said.

Following the pageant, everyone in attendance will be invited to the church hall for a catered hot buffet meal.

"We want to make this an annual event and bring the community together to celebrate with us," the pastor said.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following hearings took place Dec. 5 before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones. Defendants ordered to appear for plea court in Northumberland County Court, Sunbury, can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Jay W. Francis, 55, of 522 Rear E. Blain St., McAdoo, and Keith R. Francis, 57, of 451 Main St., Ashland, both waived to court charges of multiple charges relating to a May 28 vehicle stop on Upper Road in East Cameron Township.

McAdoo and Francis both waived charges of possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Francis also waived charges of two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to possess a driver's license, careless driving and speeding.

The charges were filed by Cpl. George Ritchey at the Stonington Barracks of the Pennyslvania State Police.

n Derek C. Kranzel, 22, of 320 N. Oak St., Mount Carmel, waived to court charges of two counts of stalking and one count of harassment involving a Nov. 3 disturbance at 1201 Wood St., Kulpmont.

Mount Carmel Townshp Patrolman Kelly Campbell, who filed the charges, said Kranzel is accused of sending threatening and harassing messages to Kelsey Resendes.

n Vanessa A. Rhodes, 28, of 101 Alton St., Danville, waived to court charges of possession, recklessly endangering another person, theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, misbranding a controlled substance, altering a drug container with intent to defraud and possessing a controlled substance without a prescription relating to a Sept. 15 incident at 1052 Spruce St., Kulpmont.

The charges were filed by Kulpmont Patrolman Michael Pitcavage.

n A charge of simple assault against Frederick T. Holmes, 44, of 433 W. Third St., was withdrawn when he pleaded guilty to a charge of harassment relating an incident at his residence on Nov. 2. He was sentenced to pay fines and costs at a total of $492.

Mount Carmel Patrolman David Donkochik reported Holmes allegedly struck his girlfriend, Britteny O'Brien, during an argument at their shared residence, causing an injury to O'Brien's lip.

n Carol A. Fahringer, 38, of 21 E. Seventh St., Mount Carmel, waived to court charges of two felony counts of aggravated assault, two misdemeanor counts each of simple assault and recklessly endangering another person and two summary counts each of harassment and disorderly conduct relating to an incident at 11:34 p.m. Nov. 26 at her residence.

Mount Carmel Patrolman Matthew Dillman reported that Fahringer allegedly went after her boyfriend, Dennis Benjamin, with scissors following an argument.

When taken into custody, Fahringer was asked by police why she allegedly tried to stab Benjamin, and she allegedly stated, "I wanted him to stop yelling," police reported.

n Nicholas C. Elliot, 19, of 1240 Poplar St., Kulpmont, waived to court charges of corruption of minors and sale or illegal use of certain solvents relating to Aug. 13 incident in the area of 1034 Pine St.

Kulpmont Police Patrolman Cade Holden reported that Elliot was allegedly doing whippets in the street with several juveniles.

SUNBURY - Northumberland County commissioners adopted an $82.3 million preliminary budget for 2013 Thursday morning on a split vote, but not before more dissension arose, despite a plea by Vinny Clausi to make peace and move forward.

Clausi was joined by Stephen Bridy in voting in favor of the spending plan, which is projected to include a 2.5-mill increase. Commissioner Richard Shoch opposed it, and later voted against adopting next year's schedule of county meetings because he believes four

meetings rather than two should be held in the evening to better accommodate the public. The schedule of meetings was approved by Bridy and Clausi.

Shoch said his reasons for voting against the budget remain the same as what he presented last week. He said he can't "in good conscience" vote for a budget that increases taxes and debt burden until Clausi reimburses the taxpayers or puts in escrow a combined $6.7 million for what he described as his "excessive and unnecessary costs associated with the secretive, belligerent and self-absorbed style of governance."

911 adds $10M

The budget includes $10 million for a capital improvement project involving federal-mandated upgrades to the county 911 communications center that must be completed by Dec. 31, 2013.

The projected 11 percent property tax increase is expected to generate $1.85 million since one mill is equivalent to $740,000. But commissioners noted the collection rate for each mill usually comes out to $700,000 because some people don't pay their taxes.

Total millage would rise from 20.318 to 22.818, which will remain the same for at least the next three years under a financial plan outlined in June by Clausi. He said, at the time, if the county did not raise taxes and borrow money, it would have a $40 million deficit by 2022 because health care, pension contributions, salaries and other costs continue to rise.

The county raised taxes by 1.95 mills in this year's budget and, by state code, cannot exceed 25 mills.

County budget director Jeff McClintock said the proposed millage increase is subject to change, because the county is still exploring options to increase revenue.

The budget must be advertised and made available for public inspection for 20 days in compliance with county code. The final spending plan must be approved by Dec. 31.

'Make peace'

Prior to voting on the budget, Clausi told Shoch, "I want to make peace so we can function better. We must stop this bickering. The allegations are over and done with. It's time to move forward."

Clausi said he was willing to change the dates of two commissioners' meetings in April and July at the administration center so Shoch could attend them. On Tuesday, Shoch failed to second Bridy's motion to pass the budget and adopt the schedule of meetings, prompting Thursday's special meeting.

Shoch said Tuesday he voted against the schedule of meetings because the dates in April and July conflicted with meetings he had in Point Township, where he serves as solicitor for the board of supervisors. He claimed Clausi purposely changed the meeting dates to cause a conflict with his schedule.

When asked by citizen Jeff Robol, of Milton, if he is committed to having more commissioners' meetings in the evening if they are well attended, Bridy said, "Definitely."

Clausi said evening meetings may cost the county more money, but Shoch and Robol both said that wouldn't be the case because many of the county workers who attend the meetings are salaried employees who don't qualify for overtime.

Shoch recommended holding some evening meetings in buildings like the Northumberland County Career and Arts Center in Shamokin to accommodate the public. He said the costs would be minimal.

Clausi also said he is willing to re-establish regular staff meetings, which he reportedly discontinued upon becoming chairman of the board.

'Not going to cry'

Shoch, who noted he is always willing to meet with his fellow commissioners to discuss issues, said, "Honesty is the first thing that needs to happen. Mr. Clausi claims he wants to bury the hatchet even though he continued to make disparaging remarks about me at his press conference Wednesday and also tried to tarnish the image of Point Township again. This kind of nonsense has to stop, but I will continue to do things for the betterment of the county and present the facts to the citizens to show how Mr. Clausi misrepresents the public. He doesn't want things to come out that he has to explain himself on."

He added, "I will call people out when they aren't being truthful, but I'm not going to scream or cry."

Shoch's comment about not screaming or crying was in reference to Clausi's past actions, which included him crying at Wednesday's press conference upon claiming he couldn't take "mental abuse" from Shoch anymore. Shoch later referred to the press conference as a "theatrical dog and pony show" and "more smoke and mirrors to cloud the issues."

Bridy asked his fellow commissioners to "think long and hard" before voting on the budget and reminded them that county operations that affect many lives could be shut down if the budget isn't passed in time. He said only time will tell if decisions made by the commissioners will turn out to be right or wrong.

Heated exchange

Clausi, who is recovering from surgery, urged Shoch and Bridy to take a vote on the budget because he was getting sick and had to go home. At one point, Clausi left the meeting room for about five minutes before returning to eventually vote on the budget and schedule of meetings.

After the meeting was adjourned, Clausi rushed out of the room before briefly returning with Bridy to make a comment about Shoch.

Once Clausi left again, Shoch said Clausi was acting like a child.

"He couldn't sit there and listen to the facts," he said.

Bridy and Shoch then got into a heated verbal exchange after Bridy accused Shoch of threatening to fire chief clerk Gary Steffen after Tuesday's meeting.

Shoch denied threatening to fire Steffen, but admitted confronting the chief clerk. He said Steffen knew a week ahead of time about a meeting with DCED regarding grant money the county has to pay back, but failed to notify the commissioner about the session until the afternoon it was being held. Shoch was still able to attend the meeting because he received notification from another source.

"I told Gary that this wasn't the first time we had a conversation about him not forwarding information on to me," Shoch said. "I told him I understood that he could get fired by them guys (Bridy and Clausi) if he didn't do what they wanted. I also told him I couldn't fire him, but I could call him out on these things."

Steffen reserved comment about the issue.

Bridy said, "Everything is a conspiracy with this guy (Shoch). You must have a twisted mind because you try to manipulate things. All I'm asking for is professionalism."

Shoch then told Bridy, "I'll put my record, documentation and credibility against yours any time. And I would be willing to take a polygraph test to show who is telling the truth. Whoever is lying, can turn in their resignation."

Clothing Giveaway

SHAMOKIN - There will be a clothing giveaway from 9 a.m. to noon Friday at Grace Chapel, 126 Airport Rd., 648-0372.

Free Christmas dinner

TREVORTON - Trevorton Community Ambulance will host its fifth annual Christmas dinner, free to all Zerbe Township residents Saturday. Serving begins at noon. Home delivery is available to the elderly and disabled residents of Zerbe, East and West Cameron and Little Mahanoy townships. The menu includes baked ham, potatoes, vegetables, macaroni and cheese, fresh baked bread, apple or peach crisp. Food is available to eat in or take out. For home delivery, call 797-4951.

Mount Carmel Borough food pantry

MOUNT CARMEL - Mount Carmel Borough Food Pantry distribution will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Notary Shop for residents who have already signed up. Midrise residents who get this are asked to meet in the lobby at 11 a.m.

Christmas village

PAXINOS - Oak Grove will present its annual Christmas Village from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday at 133 Oak Grove Road. Rain date is Dec. 16. The event will include pony rides, a petting zoo, horse-drawn wagon rides, campfires, a fiddler, free food and drinks, cookies, a gift for each family and music by the Robatins. This event is free to the public. Donations of non-perishable food will be accepted for Bountiful Blessings Ministry and Open Arms Outreach Ministry. For directions or information, call 648-6034 or Pastor Zachary Hopple at 648-8450.

Holiday concert

MOUNT CARMEL - A "Christmas Spirits" concert including more than 20 vocalists and six musicians from Lift Your Spirits Performing Arts will be held at 6 p.m. Sunday at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 47 S. Market St., next to Town Park. Admission is free, but a good-will offering is appreciated. A variety of Christmas music focusing on the nativity will be part of the performance.

Vera Bradley and Scarf Auction

MOUNT CARMEL - The second annual Vera Bradley and Scarf Auction at SS Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church Hall, 131 N. Beech St., will benefit the SS Peter and Paul maintenance and repair fund. Doors open Sunday at noon, auction begins at 2 p.m. There will be specials and door prizes and refreshments available. For more information, call 339-0650.

LARRC seeks volunteers

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

2013 Anthracite Coalympics

The "2013 Anthracite Coalympics" is a fundraiser set for May 4 in Shamokin. Admission is free. Event registration is $15. Adult events include a 2K race, horseshoes, ultimate frisbee, obstacle course, homerun derby, hot dog-eating conest, beer pong and tug-of-war. Children's events are free, but donations are welcome. They include a race, scavenger hunt, beanbag toss, long jump and obstacle course. There will be entertainment for children as well as live music and adult beverages for those of age. Vendors and volunteers are needed. Anyone interested in helping out should contact Shamokin Coal Township Community Cares Project on Facebook, email coalregionpride@yahoo.com or call 898-5229.

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

WASHINGTON — A team of former NASA executives is launching a private venture to send people to the moon for a price that is definitely out of this world.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Four people escaped serious injury Saturday morning after the vehicle in which they were riding was hit by a deer that is thought to have been spooked by hunters.

John Reidinger, of Trevorton, said he was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee east toward Shamokin on Route 225 (Trevorton Road) near Odd Fellows Cemetery when the deer leaped from a stone retaining wall, behind which is a wooded area. The deer hit the Jeep, shattering the windshield and door windows on both the driver and passenger sides. Following the incident, Reidinger was able to drive the vehicle to a nearby parking lot. The deer was killed.

Reidinger, his two children and a female companion were not injured, but were treated at the scene for minor cuts and scrapes.

"We were lucky," Reidinger said while inspecting the scene.

He said the deer seemed to "come out of nowhere."

Patrolman Chris Lapatski of Coal Township Police Department investigated the incident. AREA Ambulance and Coal Township firefighters, chiefs and fire police also responded.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Through the generosity of area residents, some local children will find a few extra gifts under their tree Christmas morning.

At Walmart stores across the country, Saturday became "Fill the Truck" day and donated items were given to their local The Salvation Army chapters.

Maj. Tina Streck and office manager Judy Orner, of the Shamokin chapter of The Salvation Army, watched while store patrons left the Coal Township retailer with an extra toy, game or item of children's winter clothing and placed it on the truck.

"We had a good jump in the morning, but it has leveled off a little," Streck said Saturday afternoon. "We are grateful though for all the support the area is giving us."

Streck said there are about 600 families who have submitted applications for Christmas assistance this year, with 100 more on the chapter's waiting list.

"Hopefully, we will be able to help everyone," Streck said.

This is the first year The Salvation Army and Wal-Mart Stores Inc. have paired for the "Fill the Truck" event. According to a Wal-Mart press release, collections are expected to provide gifts to more than 10,000 children nationwide. Walmart Foundation also made a $1 million donation to The Salvation Army's national Red Kettle Campaign.

The local chapter was also helped out Saturday by Knoebel Lumber, which donated the truck for Saturday's collection and provided a special appearance by Knoebels Amusement Resort's mascot Kozmo.

At the start of the event, Shamokin's Liberty Fire Company brought Santa and Mrs. Claus to the store to collect toys and donations for The Salvation Army. Fire company members also volunteered their time to ring bells, drawing attention to the signature red kettles throughout the day.

"Every little bit helps," Streck said. "I know that the Lord will provide and help us reach our goals."

Auction

In addition to kettle collections and the toy drive, a special auction was held at Energy Liquidators, Coal Township, from which 100 percent of the proceeds was given to The Salvation Army. While the turnout wasn't as big as expected, Streck said the bidding went well.

"They didn't have the crowd that they were hoping for, but those who came were generous with their bidding," she said. "I also have to thank all the merchants and citizens who donated items."

Streck said The Salvation Army will begin work on the other needs for this year's Christmas baskets.

"We want to make sure that there are meats in the Christmas baskets: the hams and the turkeys. That is our next project," she said.

Marriage licenses

Ronald-Joseph Gane Sr., of 315 State Route 2026, Coal Township, and Joan M. Lehman, of 4315 State Route 2026, Coal Township. Issued Dec. 6.

Eric David Holtzapple, of 127 Poppy Rd., Paxinos, and Ashley Marie Novakoski, of 205 1/2 Water St., Northumberland. To be issued Dec. 10.

Divorces

Lori B. Earl, 24 S. Third St., Shamokin, from Micah N. Earl, 1109-1113 W. Spruce St., Coal Township. Married Aug. 27, 2011.

Jeffrey M. Greco, 158 Main St., Paxinos, from Martha M. Greco, 111 Laurel Lane, Oak Ridge Estates, Mount Carmel Township. Married June 10, 1972.

Madeline M. Nebrotski, 117 First St., Danville, from Chester J. Nebrotski, 1 Highland Drive, Riverside. Married April 22, 1989.

Sean D. Brady, 24 Highland Drive, Danville, from Stephanie M. Brady, 4470 S. Lemay Ave., No. 105, Fort Collins, Colo. Married July 24, 2004.

Patrick J. Burns, 936 Chestnut St., Kulpmont, from Nicole J. Baker, 136 E. Arch St., Shamokin. Married July 21, 2007.

Samantha N. Fetterolf, 134 Arizona Drive, Kulpmont, from Richard Allen Fetterolf Jr., 634 Scott St., Kulpmont. Married Aug. 28, 2010.

Derrick James Guthrie, 107 W. 10th St., Watsontown, from Kimberly Ann Guthrie, 3206 Neel Court, Killeen, Texas. Married Sept. 23, 2009.

Joan Marie Konopski-Helt from Randy C. Helt, both of 27 First St., Locust Gap. Married Aug. 28, 1997.

Property transfers

Daniel F. Karpinski Jr. to Doogie's Pizzeria LLC, property in Shamokin, $55,000.

Paul R. Vincenzes to Joseph J. Kripplebauer Jr. and James Galbraith IV, property in Mount Carmel, $5,000.

Joseph M. Bucharski, Margaret Bucharski, Lambert John Paul and Christine Paul to Matthew W. Renn and Kristy R. Renn, property in Coal Township, $45,000.

Henry Waskiewicz (by agent), agent Donna Shuder to Donna Shuder, property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Wendy A. Reigel to Peter N. Spadotto, property in Coal Township, $108,000.

Ryan R. Price to Dennis A. Kodack Jr., property in Shamokin, $1,000.

Prean Family Trust (by trustee) and Elizabeth Anne Nolan (individually and trustee) to Margaret L. Cowles, property in Mount Carmel Township, $157,000.

Marilyn J. Baskin and Robert R. Baskin to Sheryl L. Kline and Robert B. Kline, property in Coal Township, $1.

Russell A. Goretsky and Lorri A. Goretsky to Nathan E. Neidig and Alaina C. Mays, property in Ralpho Township, $110,000.

William R. Shepperson, Kristin L. Shepperson and Brian L. Shepperson, to Neil A. Ebert Jr. and Maryann K. Ebert.

Robert C. York Sr. (trustee), Kathleen M. York (trustee), Robert C. York Sr. Revocable Living Trust (by trustee) and Kathleen M. York Revocable Living Trust (by trustee) to BKP, Inc., property in West Cameron Township, $67,900.

Charlene Y. Bloom Revocable Living Trust Agreement (by trustee), trustees Cheryl L. Walter, Cheryl L. Kuster, Elden N. Bloom II and Glenn A. Bloom to Cheryl L. Walter, Cheryl L. Kuster, Elden N. Bloom II and Glenn A. Bloom, property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

Cheryl L. Walter, Cheryl L. Kuster, Eric A. Kuster, Elden N. Bloom II, Joanne E. Bloom and Glenn A. Bloom to Glenn A. Bloom, property in Rockefeller Township, $107,000.

Kenneth L. Cook estate, Heather M. Kirby (executrix) to Heather M. Kirby, property in Shamokin Township, $1.

Mary Lou Bednarczyk (individually and executrix) and Irene Andrulevich estate to Northeast Apartments LLC, property in Mount Carmel, $11,000.

Peggy Ann Derk and Salathiel D. Derk to Linda R. Bauman, property in Shamokin, $41,000.

Robert J. Gresavage Sr. and Susan L. Gresavage to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, property in Jordan Township, $1.

Philip C. Zawatski and Blanche F. Zawatski to Colin P. Zawatski (trustee) and the Zawatski Irrevocable Intro Vivos Trust, property in Coal Township, $1.

John R, Sandri III (executor) and Jeanne M. Sandri estate to Richard M. McSurdy and Gina V. McSurdy, property in Shamokin Township, $7,500.

Alma M. Stahl to Stahl Farms LLC, property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Louis Dondero to Arthur J. Catino Jr. and Maria Catino, property in Mount Carmel, $4,500.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau, Timothy J. Mattera and Connie E, Mattera to Valerie Revinski, property in Mount Carmel, $1,426.11

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau, Francis Tanney Sr. and Elizabeth Tanney to Apical Properties Inc. property in Mount Carmel, $1,556.54.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Marietta Tafner to Henry G. Catino, property in Mount Carmel, $1,468.88.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Lori Knopp to Lawrence Santiago and Sonia Santiago, property in Mount Carmel, $2,324.30.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Shawn J. Wondoloski to Lawrence Santiago and Sonia Santiago, property in Shamokin, $1,751.61.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Barry A. Strausser to Kelly M. Wilson and Shawn F. Hartman, property in Coal Township, $4,100.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau, Samuel B. Moyer and Esther A. Moyer to Edward M. Wilson and Kelly M. Wilson, property in Coal Township, $1,675.64.

St. Anthony of Ranshaw LLC to John L. Willis and Christina M. Willis, property in Coal Township, $69,000.

Jodi aka Jodie R. Merow and Scott B. Merow to Frank P. Bergonia and Elizabeth Anne Bergonia, property in Kulpmont, $22,000.

Joanne G. Hockenbroch to Kerry L. Hockenbroch II and Lindsay J. Hockenbroch, property in Shamokin Township, $1.

Jonathan Powell to Joseph R. Bobeck, property in Shamokin, $25,000.

Richard Morris and Amy Morris, to Marissa D. Fisher and Lee Ann Lori Long, property in Shamokin, $1,700.

Donald M. Burd (co-executor), David L. Burd Sr. (executor) and Emma Burd estate to Donald M. Burd, property in Coal Township, $40,000.

Ann M. aka Ann Milo estate, Ann Ference Milo estate and Vida Saylor (executrix) to James R. Miller Jr., property in Mount Carmel, $44,000.

SHAMOKIN - As a project develops to restore the stone channel of Shamokin Creek in the city's downtown, historians are working to piece together its history - and they're seeking the public's help.

Tom Grbenick and Tom Deans have been pouring over the city archives in the basement of City Hall, paging through decades-old minutes of city council meetings, resolutions and maps. Local newspaper archives at Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library were also scrutinized.

For a blue collar town whose residents mostly worked in factories, mills and mines, Grbenick was struck by the dignity and beauty and society-atmosphere that existed in Shamokin in the 1930s.

"This was a proud place, I think," he said. "I would think it would be inspirational to a whole new generation of people if they can get past (how) they view (Shamokin) today."

Grbenick and Deans have taken to the online state and national archives as well, but for all their time spent, they've come up with little in the way of a complete history.

Few details

They know the project began in 1935, one of several of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), and that it carried on into the early 1940s. Anywhere from 200 to 500 people were working on WPA projects - sidewalk repairs, firehouse construction, sewing projects - throughout the Shamokin area at the time, they say.

The creek bed project started with the removal of a buildup of culm in the dirt-bottom stretch of creek throughout the city, they surmise.

"All of this led to the idea of putting stone walls in the creek," Grbenick said, with Deans adding, "And the floor."

Key to the project is information about the stones and where they were quarried, but the holy grail for their quest would be finding the original design specs or blueprints, if they still exist.

Harry Reinhardt was Shamokin's engineer at the time, and likely in charge to some degree. A few cold calls placed to people sharing that same spelling of his last name listed in a local phone book turned up nothing.

Grbenick and Deans hope a relative or perhaps an engineer or architect who may have somehow inherited Reinhardt's files, or that of WPA projects in the city, is alive and well and able to fill in some gaps about the Shamokin Creek channel.

Shamokin Creek's stone channel is one of the fewest examples of rock-lined stream channels in the state, and it's significant in terms of quality of work and, at 1.2 miles in the city, its size, they say.

"The intent here is to restore the stone masonry construction," said Deans, who had been project coordinator for the Sunbury Riverfront project.

The original plans would be very helpful to the current engineers, said Grbenick, director of SEDA-COG.

Flood damage

The channel was badly damaged during the September 2011 flooding, and the city received nearly $1.8 million from Federal Emergency Management Agency for repairs.

An engineering survey in September drove up the estimated construction costs from nearly $1.2 million to nearly $2.7 million, and the city has asked for an additional $1 million.

Grbenick said the latest survey is more accurate. The original estimates came when water levels were higher. September's survey was performed when the levels were lower, allowing discovery of a expanded scope of repairs including some that were not observed previously.

Putting together the history of the channel is critical because the restoration plans must be reviewed by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission; the city's downtown has been identified as a potential nationally registered historic district.

Anytime a federal project is approved within a historic district - even one deemed a potential historic district - historic preservation rules must be followed, Grbenick said.

Steve Bartos, city clerk, hopes the project could kickstart economic revitalization in the downtown, and by perhaps being added to the National Register of Historic Places, create leverage for public and private grant funding sources.

The revised project estimates and additional funding request are under FEMA review. Agency officials visited Shamokin Oct. 19 and were presented the project update. Recommendations from the officials were added to the revised plan and final approval is expected by year's end.

"Once we get final approval, we can start the work," Bartos said, referencing opening the bidding for the project and beginning construction.

Much damage

There are 18 project areas - two more than the first estimate - that contain 50 items targeted for repair.

The majority are in the Shamokin Creek channel between Franklin and Mulberry streets in the city's southern end to an area behind Claude Kehler Community Park. Damage has also been identified and marked for repair in the stone channel of Carbon Run between near Sixth and Willow streets north to near Chestnut and Fourth streets.

Repairs for wall washouts and damage, base scouring and replacement and debris removal make up a majority of the work.

Basic flood prevention will be the focus on the project's northern and southern ends.

Particular detail to historic preservation and restoration - fixing the stone and returning it to its previous state - will be paid to the city's downtown district, between where Shamokin Creek and Coal Run meet near Washington and Water streets and the Independence Fire Association on Market Street.

Landscaping and walking trails along the creek channel in the downtown will be focused on as well.

Memories welcome

Finding the original specs is a long shot, Grbenick and Deans admit. What should be easier to come by are memories.

Anyone who may have been alive and old enough to have a memory of the WPA project - even as simple as observations while they walked past the creek channel during construction - is asked to contact Grbenick and Deans.

Tales from descendants of those employed by WPA would also be helpful.

Photos of the work or of the Shamokin Creek area during construction, no matter how old or faded, would be useful.

The duo are working on a tight deadline, with a self-imposed deadline of Dec. 31.

Anyone wishing to share information or photos should call Grbenick at 522-7214 or Bartos at 644-0876.

The Mount Carmel Area Board of Education Merit Award winner for October 2012 at the elementary level is fifth-grade student, Makenzie Pyle, daughter of Bruce and Lori Pyle of Mount Carmel. Makenzie excels academically, is on the distinguished honor roll, and receives outstand scores on the PSSA's.

The Mount Carmel Area Board of Education Merit Award winner for October 2012 at the high school level is senior student MaryRose Latorre, daughter of Steve and Cheryl Latorre, Denmar Gardens. MaryRose is a member of the National Honor Society, is captain of the cheerleading squad and is an editor for both the yearbook and MCA-Live news reporting staff. MaryRose is actively involved in Interact, Spanish Club and SADD and has previously won the Elks Junior Student of the Month award. She has also represented MCA in Odyssey of the Mind, competing at both the state and world levels.

Phoenix Rehab to host holiday event

SHAMOKIN - Phoenix Rehabilitation and Health Services invites the public to its free holiday event, Milk and Cookies with Santa.

The event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Phoenix Rehabilitation's city location in Mill Road Square on North Franklin Street, near the Shamokin Police Department.

Children will be able to have their photo taken with Santa Claus. There also will be children's games, live reindeer and free refreshments.

Each guest is asked to bring as a donation new winter hats, mittens, gloves or scarves to benefit those in need locally. All collected items will be donated to Hope Ministries.

MOUNT CARMEL - Mount Carmel Mayor J. Kevin Jones has proclaimed Monday as Bruno John Leonardi Day in the borough.

Leonardi was born Dec. 9, 1912, in a small town in Austria called Tuenno in the Trento region, which is now part of Italy. He came to America in 1933 to join his parents, who had arrived in the early 1930s.

After working in various local jobs and becoming a U.S. citizen, he entered the U.S. Army in 1942. Leonardi served in Europe and Africa and received various medals, including three bronze stars.

In 1946, he met Theresa Pupo, and later that year, they married. They had three children and a grandson.

In 1951, he and his brother, Ezio, opened Mount Carmel Dry Cleaners, which operated in various locations until 1989.

Today, Bruno lives with his daughter and son-in-law, Ray and Theresa Hornberger. His wife passed away in 2003.

On behalf of council and borough citizens, the mayor congratulates Bruno John Leonardi on reaching his 100th birthday.

Jones said Leonardi is a great example of the many immigrants who came to this country for a better life. He raised a good family, served his country and became a productive part of the areas business community.

Happy 100th birthday.

DANVILLE - A Geisinger Health System administrator says the company is studying the potential for a business partnership to create a natural gas fueling station.

Al Neuner, vice president of facilities operations, said in an e-mail through a spokesperson that the review is part of a continuing evaluation of a state grant program providing incentives for using natural gas to fuel fleet vehicles like large trucks and, in Geisinger's case, shuttle buses.

"Although this grant is somewhat attractive for vehicle purchase, the high cost item is the fueling station, which currently has no funding available," Neuner said in the e-mail. "We are evaluating whether there is a way to make this work by partnership with others.

"I suspect this will be a study item over the next several months."

Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is offering $20 million over the next three years through its Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program - $10 million in 2013, $7.5 million in 2014 and $2.5 million in 2015.

The funding covers about half the incremental costs to convert or purchase a fleet of at least five vehicles. Vehicles must weigh more than 14,000 pounds to qualify. The maximum award per vehicle is $25,000.

None of the funding, however, is eligible for infrastructure development for fueling stations, and access to such a facility or a plan to build at least one in Pennsylvania is a grant requirement.

Geisinger has been researching the use of natural gas vehicles over the past year, Neuner said, adding that it is too early to speculate where a potential fueling station would be constructed if the project were to become reality.

The cost to either convert or purchase new a natural gas vehicle compared to one fueled by diesel is significant. So, too, is the price of diesel fuel above natural gas, and over time, it's the fuel costs where savings potentially could be realized.

Diesel averaged $4.02 a gallon this week, and regular unleaded gasoline $3.39 a gallon, a federal agency reported. That's compared to the $2.16 average for the equivalent of one gallon of compressed natural gas, according to an industry website.

The application period for the first round of funding through the Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program opened Dec. 1 and closes Feb. 1.

A transportation firm that operates shared-ride routes in Northumberland County, Rabbittransit, is also exploring the potential the grant presents, an company official said Tuesday.

SYRACUSE, N.Y. - Aubrey Lynne Stover, daughter of Denise A. Stover, of Shamokin, and Joel R. Stover, of Mifflinburg, was recently awarded the Forty Under Forty Award, which is sponsored by Syracuse University's Whitman School of Business and the Central New York Business Journal.

Forty Under Forty recognizes 40 ambitious, hard-working, civic-minded individuals, who are age 39 and under. These individuals have excelled in the workplace and in the community, and come from diverse backgrounds, experiences and skills. They also thrive on active community involvement and appreciate the importance of their role in advancing public good.

Stover is a graduate of Syracuse University, with a master's degree in social work, and Penn State University with an associate degree in letters, arts, and sciences, a B.A. in both history and sociology, and a Master of Education in teaching and curriculum.

She is a licensed master social worker in New York and she earned her credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor certification while she worked as a chemical dependency therapist for Crouse Hospital-Chemical Dependency Treatment Services. She currently works with adolescents in the "Choices" program for Central New York Services Inc., as a chemical dependency therapist stationed at Elmcrest Residential Treatment Facility.

St. Pauline Christmas luminary event

KULPMONT - The St. Pauline Center in Kulpmont will hold its 10th annual Christmas Luminary Event and Christmas worship concert Saturday, Dec. 15, starting at 6 p.m.

Music at the concert will be provided by the Lift Your Spirit Performing Arts Group. Luminaries will be available starting at noon Friday, Dec. 14, and until the time of the event. Complimentary cookies and hot chocolate will be served.

Those that can make it to the center can still purchase a luminary by sending their petition with $5 to the St. Pauline Visintainer Center, P.O. Box 115, Kulpmont 17834. At the event, St. Pauline statues and other religious items will be available.

'Coalympics' new contact information

The "2013 Anthracite Coalympics" is a fundraiser set for May 4 in Shamokin. Admission is free. Event registration is $15. Adult events include a 2K race, horseshoes, ultimate frisbee, obstacle course, homerun derby, hot dog-eating contest, beer pong and tug-of-war. Children's events are free, but donations are welcome. They include a race, scavenger hunt, beanbag toss, long jump and obstacle course. There will be entertainment for children as well as live music and adult beverages for those of age. Vendors and volunteers are needed. Anyone interested in helping out should call Matt Reidinger at 495-1776, Kathy Klase at 509-2632 or email coalregionpride@yahoo.com.