Susquehanna Valley gas prices went down this week, dropping seven cents to $2.602 a gallon, according to AAA East Central's Fuel Gauge report, but still above the national average of $2.424.

On the national front

The price of West Texas Intermediate crude oil reached a six-year low this past week, keeping downward pressure on the national price of gasoline. This downward pressure has, at least temporarily, offset potential price gains from robust demand, regional refinery maintenance and the seasonal transition to more expensive summer-blend gasoline.

Global crude prices continued to tumble with reports of growing supply and the strengthening U.S. dollar. The likelihood of a possible nuclear deal between the West and Iran also has the potential to bring more oil to the global market. Additionally, comments by Saudi Arabia's oil minister yesterday indicated that the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) would not cut oil production to increase global oil prices, instead electing to let the market self-correct.

The domestic oil market in the U.S is facing similar oversupply dynamics and concerns that rising U.S. production could outpace storage capacity is contributing to lower prices. WTI fell to its lowest level since the 2009 Great Recession this past week, although prices did recover some of those losses to end the week. At the close of Friday's formal trading on the NYMEX, WTI settled up $1.76 at $45.72 per barrel.

(AAA East Central is a not-for-profit association with 83 local offices in Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia serving 2.7 million members.)

DANVILLE - A district judge is mulling whether or not a Geisinger doctor is guilty of disorderly conduct for leading his two young sons on a walk across the ice-covered Susquehanna River last month.

Steven R. Bonebrake, 31, of 204 E. Front St., Danville, is fighting the charge. He testified during a hearing Monday before Magisterial District Judge Marvin Shrawder that he jumped up and down on the ice Feb. 8 to test its integrity. Nothing cracked. He kept his boys - 6 and 5 years old - in a line behind him, and crossed using the same route he used 20 to 30 times before, he said.

The walk came at the end of a 10-day stretch where temperatures hovered in the single digits. It was 42 degrees, and Bonebrake thought it was a good day to get his sons outdoors. They went sledding by the river before crossing the ice from Danville to Riverside.

He estimated the river's depth at about 1 foot judging by the shoreline that day. If the ice broke, he said the only danger was someone getting a wet boot. Minimal melting created tiny puddles on the ice's surface, giving an appearance of open water, but Bonebrake said there was no open water near them.

"I didn't feel there was any danger at all," he said.

Mahoning Township Patrolman Garon Fenstermaker said Bonebrake didn't drill the ice to measure its thickness. Drilling is the only sure way to get an accurate measurement, Leslie Young, Mahoning Township fire chief, said during testimony.

Young said the river current causes ice to be 15 percent weaker than an icy pond or lake. She said 4 inches of ice can support a 200 pound person, which is near what Bonebrake weighs.

Crowds gathered on both sides of the river when people saw Bonebrake and his two sons, Fenstermaker said. Had the ice cracked, putting the Bonebrakes in danger, he said rescue personnel would have had to risk their own safety.

But nothing happened, said Bonebrake's attorney, John L. McLaughlin. They crossed safely.

"Dr. Bonebrake made a decision that the ice was safe and obviously it bore out," he said.

During cross-examination, Young told McLaughlin she only looked at the river ice while she drove over the Danville-Riverside bridge. When firefighters were dispatched to the scene as a precaution, she was unable to respond and did not physically check the ice depth herself.

McLaughlin argued the disorderly conduct charge has no merit because Bonebrake wasn't behaving recklessly and showed no intent to break the law. Because their actions drew the attention of passersby doesn't mean Bonebrake created a hazardous situation, McLaughlin said.

"The fact that he was on the ice walking is a hazardous condition," Fenstermaker told Shrawder.

Shrawder was presented case law by both Fenstermaker and McLaughlin for review. A ruling could be issued today.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Eleven people, including a volunteer firefighter and his family, were left homeless Monday morning when fire erupted in a row home and spread to five other properties in the 1200 block of West Walnut Street.

The three-alarm, accidental blaze broke out about 10:50 a.m. in a kitchen near a stairwell at 1234 W. Walnut St. while a contractor was soldering pipes in an attempt to repair a water leak. The fire gutted the home and adjoining dwellings at 1232, 1236 and 1238 W. Walnut St., caused fire, smoke and water damage to 1230 and 1240 W. Walnut St., and minor smoke damage at 1242, 1244 and 1246 W. Walnut St.

No injuries were reported while police, firefighters and neighbors were successful in evacuating the homes that were occupied. A cat was rescued by a firefighter from 1232 W. Walnut St. and taken to St. Francis Animal Hospital.

The blaze in the congested neighborhood was battled by firefighters from multiple communities, many of whom fought a March 16 blaze in the 200 block of South Walnut Street in Mount Carmel that left 13 people homeless and damaged seven properties.

90 minutes for control

Firefighters quickly mounted an exterior attack by dousing the burning homes with water from metal stand pipes on aerial trucks from Rescue Fire Company in Shamokin and Americus Hose Company in Sunbury. They also sprayed water from the front, sides and back of the properties on Water Street after connecting hoses to hydrants a couple blocks away on West Arch Street.

Heavy smoke and flames were shooting from second-story windows at 1234 and 1232 W. Walnut St. when firefighters arrived at the scene and continued to do so for more than an hour despite valiant efforts by firefighters manned with roof hooks, axes and other equipment.

Due to the configuration of the row homes, several of which have common attics, it took firefighters more than 90 minutes to bring the blaze under control.

The fire was declared out at 12:51 p.m., but personnel remained at the scene until 5:45 p.m. to inspect the homes and monitor potential flare-ups.

First day of work

While sitting in his contractor's van after the fire, Joe Sanders, 64, of Unityville, Lycoming County, told a News-Item reporter and Coal Township Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Malukas that he was soldering pipes after a water leak occurred in an upstairs bathroom at the home of Rich Feudale, who is reportedly in a nursing home.

Sanders said the leak reportedly had existed for some time since there was significant water damage in the home. As he was soldering, Sanders said a wall caught on fire between the first and second floors near a stairwell.

Sanders said, "It was my first day remodeling the home. The fire just took off into the ceiling between the first and second floors and up the walls. I called 911 to report the fire, gathered my tools, ran outside and began knocking on doors to warn neighbors."

Firefighter displaced

One of those neighbors was John Seiler Jr., 41, of 1236 W. Walnut St., who has served as a volunteer firefighter with Trevorton and Klingerstown fire companies for approximately 25 years.

Seiler, his fiance, Jennifer Mendoza, 38, and their three children, John Seiler III, 10, Sierra Seiler, 13, and Laticia Mendoza, 10, were among those left homeless.

Seiler said he was working at Strong Industries in Point Township when his friend, Rich Wright, texted him about the fire.

Seiler's fiance was not home and their children were attending school at Shamokin Area when the fire occurred.

"I am in shock right now," Seiler said. "I'm used to fighting fires, but when it's your own home, it really makes you upset. I'm just happy nobody got hurt."

Seiler said his mother, Pamela Rachel, of Wayne, Ohio, owns the home and has insurance. But he doesn't possess insurance for the contents he lost in the fire.

'There goes everything'

Seiler's neighbor, George Persing, 42, of 1238 W. Walnut St., who was left homeless, was lying in bed when he smelled something weird and heard someone knocking on his front door. When asked what he was thinking watching the fire ravage the homes, Persing replied, "There goes everything."

Persing said he was in the process of remodeling his home, which is not insured.

Also left at least temporarily homeless were Travis Byers and Jan Witmer, of 1230 W. Walnut St.; Charles Furdalewicz, 54, of 1232 W. Walnut St., and Chas Britton, of 1240 W. Walnut St.

Furdalewicz's sister, Linda Murphy, of Shamokin, who was at the fire scene, said her brother has been hospitalized for 10 days. When he's released from Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Furdalewicz will reside with his sister.

All the other fire victims left homeless will be staying with relatives or friends.

The homes of William Shepperson, of 1242 W. Walnut St.; Esther Mensch and her daughter, Janine Mensch, of 1244 W. Walnut St., and Mr. and Mrs. John Bland, of 1246 W. Walnut St., sustained minor smoke damage, but are livable.

Esther Mensch said, "This is scary. I'm glad nobody got injured or killed. The firefighters did a terrific job."

Blue flames

Herb Timco, a member of Maine Fire Company and former township fire chief who has been battling blazes for 51 years, said he could see blue in the flames while on the steps inside 1234 W. Walnut St. He said blue flames often indicate "flashover" or intense heat.

Timco said the fire, which caused three roofs to collapse, was bad, but not the worst he's witnessed in his long career.

Coal Township Fire Chief Russ Feese, who was assisted at the scene by Malukas, Coal Township Assistant Fire Chief Michael Timco, Shamokin fire chiefs Bruce Rogers, Jason Zimmerman and Steve Jeffery, who also serves as Northumberland County public safety director, commended all the firefighters who responded to the mutual aid call and prevented the entire block of row homes from burning.

An accident

Feese said the fire has been ruled accidental.

Fire police from Coal Township, Shamokin, Kulpmont and Mount Carmel initially cordoned off traffic on West Walnut Street between Locust and Cedar streets before closing down additional streets in the vicinity of the fire.

American Red Cross employees were at the scene to offer aid and shelter to the fire victims.

PPL, Aqua Pa. and UGI Gas Service personnel also responded to cut power, water and gas to the heavily damaged homes.

Coal Township Street Department workers dumped anti-skid material on the sidewalk and streets to help with the icy conditions caused by the large volume of water used in battling the fire. At times, water was pouring out of the first floor of 1232 and 1234 W. Walnut St.

AREA Services Ambulance personnel, who were prepared to treat any injured individuals and transport them to the hospital if necessary, provided firefighters and fire victims with water, coffee, pizza and other food donated by local businesses.

Fire units from Coal Township, Shamokin, Sunbury, Elysburg, Overlook, Upper Augusta Township, Mount Carmel and Atlas were summoned to the blaze.

EAST CAMERON TOWNSHIP - Two toddlers escaped injury when the vehicle in which they were riding rolled over late Monday morning.

According to Pennsylvania State Trooper Jim Nestico of the Stonington barracks, Jackie Rupert was driving north on a curvy section of Route 125 when she lost control of her Jeep Grand Cherokee and struck a bank alongside the road, causing her SUV to roll over. The right rear wheel was sheered off at the axle, and the SUV was extensively damaged. Rupert was treated and taken from the scene by AREA Services.

According to Trooper Nestico, excessive speed may have been the cause of the accident. The SUV was towed from the scene by Tom Herb's Garage.

SHAMOKIN - The Friendly Choice Food Mart lost a fight with a black Saturn when a driver mistakenly pressed the gas instead of the brake.

Melissa Ford, 44, of 3740 Upper Road, Shamokin, struck the building near its entrance shortly before 5 p.m. Monday. She complained of chest pain and was treated at the scene.

The building suffered structural damage. The impact pushed in a brick wall, bending the metal and glass front door and moving the lottery machine several feet.

Pushpa Patel, who co-owns the convenience store with her brother, said she was working behind the front counter when the car struck the building.

"I was so scared and the noise was so crazy," said Patel.

Ford's vehicle suffered minor damage to the front bumper.

SASD meetings Thursday

COAL TOWNSHIP - There will be a Shamokin Area School District Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, followed by a special meeting for contract and personnel reasons at 5:45 p.m. in the board conference room.

Street sweeping begins

KULPMONT - Residents are reminded that the scheduled street sweeping will begin this week and are asked to abide by the signs. Parking is restricted from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on the day of scheduled street sweeping; violators will be ticketed. The street sweeper will be in operation until 3 p.m., making several passes on each street.

Happiness solutions offered

SHAMOKIN - Practical tips for living a happier life will be revealed at 7 p.m. Thursday at Lifetree Café at Antioch Place, 531 N. Market St.

The program, titled "Be Happy," features a filmed interview with Gretchin Rubin, author of the New York Times bestselling book "The Happiness Project."

"Happiness isn't a finish line; it's a process," says Rubin, who shares a dozen specific suggestions for moving people toward greater happiness at home, at work, and in relationships.

Admission to the 60-minute event is free. Snacks and beverages are available. For more information, contact Kathy Vetovich at 570-672-9346 or kvetovich@gmail.com.

SUNBURY - A criminal charge has been filed against a Schuylkill County attorney accused of faking a judge's signature on a bogus settlement order.

Stephen P. Ellwood, 62, of Orwigsburg, allegedly signed the name of Northumberland County Judge Charles H. Saylor to a false order dated April 18, 2013, indicating his client would be awarded $250,000 and Ellwood himself would get $25,000. Ellwood confessed during grand jury testimony Dec. 10, according to the resulting presentment.

The state Attorney General's Office charged Ellwood with one felony count of forgery Feb. 19. He is free on $40,000 bail.

The case will be transferred to Snyder County Court because of Saylor's involvement in Northumberland County Court.

Injury case

Ellwood was representing Robert Bechtel and his wife, June McIntyre, formerly of Kulpmont, in a personal injury case against their former landlords, Thomas and Margaret Valeiko. The attorney was working for Krasno, Krasno & Onwudinjo at the time.

Bechtel received the order from Ellwood. When a year passed and he hadn't been paid, Bechtel retained a second attorney, Tom Waffenschmidt, of Williamsport, who discovered the document was a fake. Saylor has said the signature is not his.

Ellwood did not return a message Monday seeking comment.

Bechtel, now living in Locust Gap, said Monday he has mixed emotions over news of the charges. He's angered by how long it took to begin holding Ellwood accountable, believing it may have been "swept under the rug," but he's pleased that it's underway.

The entire ordeal has left him bitter toward the legal system.

"I hate the legal profession. It's pretty evident why. This is how they think; this is how they operate," Bechtel said. "This just proves my point all along, what everybody says about the legal profession - right there's the evidence."

"My daughter suffered for six years because of this idiot. My family suffered because of him," he said. "I'm just glad that it's out there, that he can never do this again."

BURNSIDE - The Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) Authority wants the public to take a hike.

On their property, that is.

At Monday's meeting, the authority voted 4-0 to adopt changes to its land use policy to allow non-motorized access to the property anytime the park is not open for motorized use.

Authority chairman Jim Backes was absent from the meeting. Operations Director Dave Porzi, who does not vote at meetings, was absent due to a family emergency.

Under the policy changes, when the park is closed to motorized use anyone wishing to walk, hike, jog, bike or do any other non-motorized activity can do so from 30 minutes after sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset by walking onto the property.

Porzi said at the March 10 work session the park would be five days per week during the summer months, including weekends. The park has typically been open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with hours changing through the seasons to align with daylight.

The park charges no fee for walk-on activities. Users would have to abide by the same rules as motorized users, including those prohibiting alcohol use, campfires and camping.

Non-motorized use is also now permitted on designated non-motorized only trails. Although no such trails have been established, Backes indicated at the work session that the Elysburg Boy Scouts may be helping to establish a hiking trail leading to an old Boy Scout camp and at least one smaller trail close to the trailhead.

The policy only applies to land owned by Northumberland County, and not to lands leased by the AOAA due to language in the contracts.

The policy only permits access of any type on the park's Eastern Reserve, which is the land east of Route 125. Authority members have previously stated a goal of opening the Western Reserve, or land west of Route 125, during this summer.

In other news:

- Authority members accepted a sales proposal from B.S. & B. Repair Inc., of Mifflinburg, to purchase a Bobcat T590 T4 Bobcat Compact Track Loader for $44,870.44. The sale is contingent upon approval from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

MOUNT CARMEL - Borough council President Tony Matulewicz said his position on the borough's rules of order as detailed in a story in Sunday's edition and reiterated in an editorial on Monday were misleading.

The story said Matulewicz ordered the topic of a uniform policy to a committee before a conversation could take place at the regular borough council meeting. He clarified that he did so only because the topic was raised during the council comment portion of the meeting, and yet a 2012 unanimous vote by council says no official action can be taken without inclusion of the given topic at the committee of the whole meeting, which is help the prior Monday, "in order that the public be apprised of all action prior to the meeting."

Matulewicz said the rules about topic discussion were put into place "because some council members would hold one-on-one discussions with a department head about a specific issue that could have taken place by a simple phone call. A council member should not wait an entire month to discuss a simple matter which does not require action by the council while all others present wait through such discussion," Matulewicz said.

The story said that if borough council members have questions on agenda items, they are to ask them prior to the meeting in one-on-one or small group conversations. That's not true, Matulewicz said. "The rules provide that all agenda items are to be fully discussed, deliberated and debated at the committee of the whole meeting before placement on the agenda," he said. "At the regular meeting, any council member may debate the issue before a vote."

Matulewicz reiterated that the rules of order apply to the committee of the whole meeting and not the regular meeting.

"The rules were designed to place the burden of new official action on individual council members rather than simply waiting until a meeting to bring up items that can be more efficiently and effective discussed by a relevant committee," he said.

Overall, he said the intent is not to discuss items behind closed doors, but quite the opposite.

"The purpose of the rules are to fully flesh out all relevant issues, have them fully discussed, deliberated and debated by the relevant committee, then have them fully discussed, deliberated and debated by the committee of the whole, then voted upon by the full council with any opportunity to discuss the rationale for their vote," he said. "All of the rules are designed to have each and every issue discussed, deliberated, and debated on a longer time line rather than simply being brought up and voted on spur of the moment."

Pre-K registration at Shamokin Area

COAL TOWNSHIP - Shamokin Area School District is taking appointments for registration for the 2015-16 Pre-K program for 4-year-olds. Registration is set for April 7 and 8 at the Shamokin Area Elementary School.

Call the elementary school office at 570-648-5721 ext. 2900 to make an appointment.

Children must be 4 years old by the first day of school, tentatively set for Aug. 31, to qualify.

Trek of the Cross in Gordon

GORDON - The 37th annual Trek of the Cross in Gordon will begin at noon on Good Friday, April 3.

The trek will begin at Simpson United Methodist Church, Biddle Street. It will move east on Biddle, turn left onto Hobart Street, move to McKnight Street and back to Biddle. It will stop at the Methodist church for a Good Friday service.

The public is invited to walk along the route.

New times for Strong Women

SUNBURY - New times have been established for the Elysburg location of the Strong Women strength training program that will be offered locally by Penn State Extension in collaboration with renowned researchers at Tufts University.

Organizers have changed the times to be 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from April 14 to June 4 with a free informational session at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 7 at Elysburg Alliance Church, 113 Alpha Ave. Instructor is Barbara Griffiths.

Women 40 years of age and older who have been active or relatively sedentary for the past few years and are interested in improving their health, vitality and well-being are welcome.

Classes are now open for registration. Cost for the eight-week program is $50 before April 15 and $75 afterward.

MANDATA - The absence of three members led the Line Mountain School Board to table a move to eliminate Sunday events at district facilities.

Board president Troy Laudenslager and board members David Scott Bartholomew and Ronald Neidig were absent from Tuesday's meeting. Solicitor Rich Roberts was also absent.

Superintendent David M. Campbell said he added a motion to approve no use of facilities on Sundays beginning July 1 to foster an open discussion of the topic.

Several board members brought up the subject multiple times since August. Campbell said the issue originated from the middle school field hockey team requesting use of fields for around a dozen consecutive Sundays. The board approved the use, but has since eyed requests for Sunday use more closely.

The attending board members decided unanimously to table the vote to ban Sunday use altogether, citing a desire to hear the opinions of those not present.

Board members Lauren Hackenburg and Lawrence Neidig also debated the language of the existing board policy, and ultimately decided to seek the input of Roberts on if the current policy is worded to include school activities or just outside organizations asking for use of the facilities.

In other news:

- Campbell noted the next arbitration session between the board and the teachers union is scheduled for April 7. During the current period, both parties have released their last best offers and made them available at the school offices and on the district's website for review. Campbell said several letters have been received from citizens and are awaiting Arbitrator William Caldwell's review.

- The district is still seeking proposed contracts from realtors in selling land connected to the former Dalmatia Elementary School. Campbell said the board would likely vote on a contract at the next meeting.

- The board approved next year's food service prices with no changes to existing prices.

- The board approved for the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble to present two performances of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the elementary school and one performance followed by a workshop for the middle school at no cost to the district. The Line Mountain Arts Council is covering the cost.

SHAMOKIN - Police say a Girardville man was high on drugs when he slammed his sedan into the back of a sport-utility vehicle last September at the traffic light near the Coal Township Walmart Supercenter.

John Weidensaul, 39, of 225 A St., tested positive for methamphetamine and Xanax, according to a criminal complaint last month by township Patrolman Edward Purcell Jr.

Purcell said Weidensaul appeared high at Geisinger Medical Center - glossy eyes, slurred speech, raspy voice - where he was driven by ambulance. At points he was restless and repeatedly scratched at his skin, Purcell said, and at other points he drifted off into other subjects during conversation about the crash.

"He appeared to be out of it," Purcell wrote in the complaint.

Weidensaul is charged with driving under the influence of a controlled substance, driving with a suspended license, reckless driving and careless driving.

Weidensaul was behind the wheel of a 1999 Dodge Stratus driving north on Route 61 about 10:10 a.m. Sept. 27 when he rammed a 2012 Jeep driven by Kevin Thomas, 32, of 1439 Poplar St., Kulpmont. Thomas was stopped in the turning lane to make a left into Walmart. A witness said the turning arrow just turned green when the crash occurred.

Jillian Yackera, 32, also of 225 A St., Girardville, was flown by Life Flight helicopter to the medical center. Police said neither Yackera nor Weidensaul were wearing a seat belt. Thomas was wearing a seat belt and escaped injury.

According to police, Weidensaul estimated he was traveling at between 45 and 50 mph. A witness said he was all over the road, that he had passed a vehicle by crossing the double-yellow line in Kulpmont, and that he almost crashed into the woods just north of Walmart.

SHAMOKIN - Trespass citations were withdrawn Tuesday against nine people stemming from a November mountain party on property owned by the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA).

A 10th person pleaded guilty to defiant trespass.

The party was held Nov. 15 on land leased for a mining operation, and citations were issued to 13 people in all.

However, there were discrepancies about property boundaries and permission to access the leased area. In turn, township police Chief William Carpenter said citations for nine people were reduced to $25 code tickets for burning violations.

Summary trials had been scheduled for Tuesday before Magisterial District Judge John Gembic.

"Usually it's all or nothing for trespassing," Carpenter said about resulting punishment.

Additional signs have been added to the disputed area, Carpenter said, and citations will be issued to anyone caught trespassing there in the future.

Dale Allen Sherman, 30, of 1515 Greenbrier Road, Rebuck, pleaded to defiant trespass and was ordered to pay a $100 fine plus court costs. Counts of criminal trespass and false identification to police were withdrawn.

Stephen Allen Dangler, 32, of 181 N. Main St., Herndon, and Michael T. Cotner, 21, of 292 Riverside Lane, Herndon, each pleaded guilty to defiant trespass in December and were ordered to pay a $200 fine plus court costs.

The ordinance tickets were issued Tuesday to Sara E. Reed, 21, of 238A W. Shamokin St., Trevorton; Brian K. Fisher, 41, of 436 Little Mountain Road, Sunbury; Kenda Sue Jones, 49, of 145 Bordell Alley, Locust Gap; Kaila A. Wynn, 20, of 858 Creek Road, Dornsife; Joshua D. Feger, 27, of 129 W. Shamokin St., Trevorton; Shelly A. Lenker, 21, of 199 Hickory Road, Dalmatia; Stefanie Erin Fisher, 38, of 436 Little Mountain Road, Sunbury; Randy Carl, 42, of 6 Berry St., Coal Township; Paul J. Jones, 50, of 145 Bordell Alley, Locust Gap; James A. Reed, 34, of 225 S. 11th St., Trevorton.

All citations were issued by Coal Township Cpl. Terry Ketchem Jr. Police were summoned to the area last fall by the AOAA's operations director, Dave Porzi.

SUNBURY - Former county correctional officer Kazimir Craig "KC" Grohowski, who was convicted by a jury in 2006 of delivering drugs to an inmate but has avoided jail through an ongoing appeal process, is grateful for his current freedom, but would like to see his 11-year-old case resolved.

"It's been a nightmare," Grohowski said Tuesday during a telephone interview. "There was no evidence presented in court that I was guilty of any of the offenses filed against me. I was not properly advised by my former attorney and there was prosecutorial misconduct. It's ridiculous that this case has gone on for 11 years."

Grohowski, of Mount Carmel, said he's been unable to work since August after suffering an injury to his left shoulder while working construction. He says he needs replacement surgery.

"I can't collect unemployment and I'm ineligible for workers' compensation," he said.

Despite his physical and financial setbacks, Grohowski is confident that he will win his appeal and be exonerated.

"I have 100-percent faith in my attorney (Edward Kopko). He has been amazing and I would lay my life in his hands," he said.

On March 4, Northumberland County President Judge William H. Wiest filed an opinion in the case that states the defendant's post conviction relief act (PCRA) petition should be denied because Grohowski is ineligible since he's not in prison or on probation or parole. But Wiest concluded that the remaining issues presented in the appeal should "undoubtedly prevail" on their merits.

Wiest said, "This court was not the presiding judge over the defendant's trial and the prior judge's formal opinion and order of June 23, 2011, substantially sets forth adequate reasoning to support the claims of insufficient evidence at trial, ineffectiveness of trial counsel and prosecutorial misconduct claims. The court hereby adopts the opinion of the prior judge and incorporates the same with this opinion."

Wiest's opinion will be reviewed by the state Superior Court, which can affirm or reject it. If it's affirmed, Grohowski would be ordered to begin his jail sentence unless he files an appeal with the state Supreme Court. If the Superior Court rejects Wiest's opinion, the case will be remanded back to Wiest to hear the issues presented by Grohowski in his PCRA petition.

Senior Deputy Attorney General Dave Gorman, who prosecuted the case, said appeals in the higher courts can take months to years to be ruled on.

On Sept. 4, Kopko filed a motion for a stay of execution of sentence and a petition for post-conviction collateral relief.

On Sept. 12, Wiest granted Grohowski a stay of execution of sentence, meaning he would not have to report to a state correctional institution as ordered by Wiest on Aug. 1.

On Oct. 7, Kopko filed a timely appeal that prevented his client from going to jail.

According to Wiest's order, Grohowski's direct appeal rights were reinstated because he was never served a notice of the state Superior Court's denial of his appeal May 26, 2011, on a post-trial motion.

The order says Grohowski has indicated a meritorious claim on appeal, which he has taken substantial steps to initiate.

In his petition for post-conviction collateral relief, Kopko argued that the commonwealth failed to introduce evidence on each of the charges filed against Grohowski, including any proof that he possessed a controlled substance.

Kopko accuses Gorman of engaging in prosecutorial misconduct that deprived Grohowski of a fair trial. He claims the Commonwealth was complicit with the defendant's former counsel, Richard Feudale, of Mount Carmel, in denying Grohowski's right to a speedy trial.

The attorney also accuses Feudale of being ineffective at trial.

Grohowski's legal saga began April 14, 2004, when he and seven other current or former prison guards were charged in connection with a two-year grand jury investigation into offenses allegedly committed between 2000 and 2002 at the prison.

Charges against one of the other guards were eventually withdrawn. Another guard was acquitted of drug charges during a 2005 trial and allowed to return to work at the prison. The other four guards entered guilty pleas and received various sentences, but avoided spending time in prison. Grohowski would be the first from the group to spend any time behind bars.

In September 2006, Grohowski was convicted by a jury of three counts of delivery of contraband - cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana - to an inmate at the jail. He was acquitted of aggravated assault against an inmate.

In August 2007, then President Judge Robert B. Sacavage granted Grohowski a new trial, citing a need for "extraordinary relief." Among the key issues was that Feudale didn't object to Gorman in his closing argument, asking the jury to consider sending a "message" by finding Grohowski guilty. Sacavage, who has since retired and become a senior judge, said Grohowski's case was prejudiced by that remark.

He also said physical evidence supporting the guilty verdict was insufficient and that the prosecution relied on circumstantial evidence presented in the testimony of three inmates. He said that testimony amounted "to little more than vague assertions that they had received drugs from the defendant."

Gorman said the "message" statement had no bearing on the jury's verdict, and he defended Feudale by pointing out that he filed pre-trial motions in the case and attacked the credibility of witnesses, including inmates.

Gorman appealed Sacavage's ruling to the state Superior Court, which in the summer of 2009 ruled in a 3-2 decision that extraordinary relief was not justified because the appeals process shouldn't occur until after sentencing.

With Sacavage's ruling for a new trial overturned, the case proceeded to sentencing based on the original conviction. In October 2009, Sacavage sentenced Grohowski to two to four years in state prison.

Kopko again began the appeal process. He filed post-sentence motions requesting acquittal or a new trial, and arguments were heard by Sacavage. The judge later acquitted Grohowski due to what he ruled was ineffective counsel and the "message" remark by Gorman.

But Gorman appealed again. On May 22, 2013, the Superior Court vacated the acquittal ruling. It said Sacavage's ruling on post-sentence motions, made June 23, 2011, came after the 120 days allotted for post-sentence motions, which were made by Kopko on Jan. 26, 2011. It made the motions legally null, the court said.

The Superior Court ruling was appealed by Kopko, but when the state Supreme Court upheld it Dec. 3, Gorman took action to initiate the sentencing.

SELINSGROVE - Steve Leason and Heather McNabb learned the art of brewing at the iconic New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, Colo., during the craft beer boom of the early 1990s. They decided to open their own brew pub shortly thereafter and moved to Selinsgrove.

The concept of a brew pub was new to the area; lots of people didn't get it. The borough council had misgivings. Some citizens were skeptical. A nearby church could have blocked the pub altogether. Even the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms was befuddled. Their agent had previously only inspected businesses that manufactured explosives.

But others knew exactly what Steve and Heather were up to; they were excited. It also didn't hurt that the couple lived in Selinsgrove for a year before opening, allowing them to bond with their new neighbors - especially during the flood of 1996 - and thus allay the community's fears.

They chose the historic Governor Snyder Mansion as their brew pub's home. The mansion - owned by Heather's parents - was built in the early 1800s and was the home of Gov. Simon Snyder, Pennsylvania's only three-term governor. In late 1996, Selinsgrove Brewing opened on the ground floor, which used to house the governor's kitchen.

Steve and Heather had definite ideas about what they wanted their brew pub to be - a place where one could savor high-quality handcrafted beer and a place where the community could gather and support the art of conversation. To that effect, they were adamant about no smoking or televisions.

That vision still exists today. The rustic, yet cozy, brew pub is reminiscent of a 19th century tavern, where a loyal clientele goes to forget about the outside world and relax over a pint or two. It's a regular destination on lists of "Best Places to Have a Beer Before You Die." Karol and I visit as often as we can. One of the things we love most about it is that once there, we never know whom we're likely to meet. It's the place Cheers wishes it could be.

Steve and Heather personally brew every batch. Their brewery has expanded twice, from a self-built "Franken-brewery" rig to a much larger 8.5-barrel (264-gallon) system, which is located in a nearby garage. The expansion made brewing fun again, plus Heather also believed the moisture generated from the original system in the basement couldn't have been good for a house built in 1816.

Even though their capacity has expanded, everything is still brewed with the same care as their first batch of Scottish Ale. They believe being a small, on-premise-only operation puts them in a unique position to experiment and get personal feedback from their customers. Selin's Grove Brewing is small by choice, comfortable in its own skin. There are no plans to expand seating or package brew.

But the brew pub isn't only about beer. Their food is exquisite, emphasizing freshness and locally produced breads, cheeses and desserts. The lineup of sandwiches and wraps is varied and delicious. A weekly special rotates between regular and vegetarian fare, which is one of their specialties. Even a confirmed carnivore like me must admit the nachos with vegetarian chili are outstanding.

Selin's Grove Brewing is open Wednesday through Sunday. Checking Facebook or calling is the best way to find out what's on tap. Enjoy the selections and remember, you'll never know whom you're going to meet there. Cheers!

Scottish Ale: Scottish Ales are about subtlety, a low-alcohol style that's meant to be slowly enjoyed by the pint. It pours clear amber with a medium head. Aromas of bready malt segue to flavors of caramel and biscuit. The hop presence is minimal, and the finish is clean, with a touch of sweetness. This is one of their flagship brews and is almost always on tap.

Solstice Dubbel: Dubbel goes on tap in late December to commemorate the brew pub's anniversary and to celebrate the winter solstice. This style is one of my favorites. It has a little bit of everything Belgian brews are famous for. It pours tawny brown with red highlights reflecting in the goblet. Aromas of bready malt mingle with spicy yeast. The body is medium, while the flavors are a complex array of rich malt, toffee, and fruit - apple and pear - rather than the dark fruit flavors traditionally found in a Dubbel. There's a hint of spiciness. (I'm not sure if it's from the yeast or a secret spice additive.) The finish is wonderfully dry. This beer is an excellent accompaniment for dessert.

Priestley Pale Ale: In a world dominated by American pale ales, English Pale Ale is a rarity. This beer honors Joseph Priestley, a scientist and free-thinker who left England to escape persecution and settled in nearby Northumberland. The style is sublime on the hand-pulled beer engine, so always check to see if this option is available. Priestley's hand-pulled pour has a huge head. Its aromas are a tantalizing blend of malt and floral East Kent Goldings hops. The silky hand-pulled carbonation caresses the tongue with flavors of malt and biscuit, harmoniously balancing the spiciness of the hops. One sip of Priestley, and you'll swear you've been transported to a rural English pub.

Snake Drive Stout: Snake Drive pours dark, almost pitch black, with light carbonation. The flavor is dominated by roasted barley. The huge hop presence isn't exactly to style, but it works nicely. The finish is dry, as an Irish stout should be. It was also the perfect complement for corned beef and cabbage on our last visit.

Dinkel Wit: Dinkel is Pennsylvania Dutch for spelt, a close relative of wheat. The spelt was micro-malted in Milroy for a local touch. The beer is straw-colored and cloudy. Aromas of bready malt mix with those of citrus and spicy yeast. The mouthfeel is creamy, with flavors of wheat and spices: bitter and sweet orange peel, coriander, and lemongrass, plus an undivulged secret spice. Overall, it's a nice interpretation of the Belgian style.

(The Brew Dude is published every other week on the Food and Drink Page. For comments, suggestions, or questions, email Mark Pasquinelli at thebrewdude@newsitem.com.)

ELYSBURG - Lift Your Spirits Performing Arts (LYSPA) will present "Born for This" at 6 p.m. Palm Sunday at Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Church.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door.

This presentation is a way to experience the journey of Jesus to the Cross as never before. Visually, musically and spiritually, this is an event for the whole family. With its full band, chorus and actors, participants join in walking the journey They experience love, pain, doubt and anguish with Jesus, Mary, Veronica, Pilate, Simon and the Apostles, and sing with joy in the hope of the resurrection.

"Born for This," the original work of CJM Music, has been performed in cathedrals throughout England. The play has overwhelmingly beautiful music written by Mike Stanley and Joann Boyce interweaved with dramatic and moving prose from Jude Martin. LYSPA is the only group licensed to perform "Born for This" in the United States.

SUNBURY - President Judge William H. Wiest will rule today if a 15-year-old boy charged with attempted homicide will remain in a juvenile detention facility until an adjudication that might not occur for nine months.

Gage Hertzog was 14 years old on Dec. 9 when police said he and his grandmother, Carol Whary, shot at Whary's stepson and neighbor, Dean Whary. He faces charges in juvenile court that include felony attempted homicide.

Hertzog appeared before Wiest Tuesday alongside his parents, who testified at a March 4 hearing that their home was safe and they would supervise Hertzog while he awaited his adjudicated.

At the time, Wiest refused to order his release because a hearing was scheduled the following week. But that hearing was continued due to a delay in the defense obtaining evidence.

Ballistics delay

Hertzog's representation, Kate Lincoln, told Wiest she re-filed a request to have her client released into the care of his parents after she spoke with Trooper Kevin Kearney following the March 4 hearing. He told her the forensic evidence would not be available for six to nine months because of delays at the ballistics lab.

Lincoln feels it was unfair to continue to hold Hertzog in a juvenile facility for that duration of time when he has not been convicted of a crime. She asked Wiest to allow Hertzog out on house arrest, and said he could wear an ankle monitor to show he was staying at his parents' house in Atlas.

She also made a motion to compel discovery, asking Wiest to require the district attorney's office to turn over evidence for her review within 30 to 45 days. She cited video surveillance footage that Kearney had told her he had on a thumb drive but was having difficulty copying. She had offered to pick up a copy at the district attorney's office, but it hasn't arrived yet.

Assistant District Attorney Julia Skinner said the district attorney's office had not yet received the surveillance footage, but someone would contact Lincoln when it arrived.

House arrest recommended

Wiest asked Northumberland County Juvenile Probation Officer Shawn Kalman for his opinion on granting Hertzog house arrest. Kalman, who was the officer on duty the night of the alleged shooting, recommended house arrest with monitoring but stipulated Hertzog have no contact with Carol or Dean Whary.

Carol Hertzog told Wiest she had cut off contact with her mother, Carol Whary, since the family vehicle was repaired three weeks ago. At the previous hearing, she testified the family was borrowing Whary's vehicle about once a week to go to the grocery store. With the vehicle fixed, nobody in her family was contacting her mother, she said.

But Skinner pointed out that Carol Hertzog's 21-year-old daughter had picked up Carol Whary and transported her to her house March 5 when Judge Charles H. Saylor lifted a ban on her returning to her home on Trevorton Road. She had previously been forbidden from going to the residence because it is adjacent to Dean Whary's home.

Victim in fear

Carol Whary, charged as an adult with attempted homicide, was approved by Judge Charles Saylor for release from SCI-Muncy Jan. 22 on $20,000 unsecured bail. Dean Whary testified Tuesday he has been in constant fear since Carol Whary was released.

"I have to look over my shoulder all the time," he said.

He also claimed Carol Whary has been antagonizing him since she returned to the Trevorton Road house.

"I'm being provoked in order for me to do something," he said.

Lincoln pointed out that as part of the release, Gage Hertzog would remain at his parents' house and would not be permitted to have contact with or visit Carol Whary.

After hearing the testimony, Wiest said he needed to think the issue over and would make a decision by this afternoon.

LEWISBURG - The Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau (SRVVB), the tourism promotion agency for Northumberland, Snyder and Union counties, has unveiled its 2015 official guide, the theme of which is "Find Your Fun Here!"

The guide emphasizes the many thriving downtowns in the region. The towns are featured in two-page spreads that include a map, a list of things to do and a brief history about the towns and their offerings.

Northumberland County featured towns are Mount Carmel, Shamokin, Sunbury, Northumberland, Milton and Watsontown.

The inside contains an extensive calendar of events and sections on history and heritage, outdoor recreation, shopping, dining, lodging and area resources. The SRVVB's more than 300 members are represented in the guide.

The 80-page guide is the bureau's key promotional piece for the year. Eighty thousand copies will be mailed and distributed to prospective tourists and visitors. The guide is distributed at state welcome centers, local universities, hotels and restaurants, county government offices and many other locations.

Community members can pick up additional copies of the new guide free at the visitors bureau, Route 15 and Hafer Road, next to Country Cupboard. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Residents and visitors can also call 1-800-525-7320 to request that a free copy be mailed to them. The guide can also be viewed, downloaded and printed from VisitCentralPA.org.

Call 570-524-7234 for more information.

SHAMOKIN - The Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library has announced memorials for the period of Feb. 25 to March 16 have been presented for the following persons:

Century Club

Pamela Jaeger by Janis Hoagland.

Kathleen Zyla by Shamokin High School Class of 1965.

Memorials

William Anskis by Elaine and Art Christ.

Julius "Jules" Ardan by Morris and Linda Gard, Dick and Merle Kashner, Mary Masinos.

Margaret Avellino by Carol and Clifford Artman, Gloria Catino, Karen and Jerry Diehl, JoAnn Dobeck, Deb and Tom Golumbfskie, Kathy Gonsar, Irene Grow, Carol and Lambert Haupt, Marge and Frank Konopka, Marie Lahr, Sherri Lahr and Mark Loeper, Linda Latsha and family, Donna and Barry Lentz, Joan and Bob McAllister, Mary Masinos, Jan Morrison, Rosanne and Robert Nolan, Patricia Segedy, Lisa, Wes, Wesley, Zachary, Chase, Max and Summer Tillett, Wes and Teresa Tillett, Roseann and Al Varano.

Arlene Baran by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Peggy Ferrari, Kathy Gonsar, Bob and Mary Ann Hartman, Emily Parker, Janet and Al Sabol.

Judy Berkheiser by Jake and Karen Berkheiser, Tony Rosini.

Mary Lou Bottiger by Coal Township High School Class of 1946.

Kay Breining by Charles Breining and Jeanette Burba, Pearl Snyder.

Walter "Walt" Britton by Joe and Linda Bielski.

George Broscious by Esther Wilk and Darlene Bressi, Tom and Cindy Carl, Ann Dombroski, Janet and Al Sabol, Loretta Sabotchick, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Talisesky, Frances Tyson and family.

Florence Cooper by Arthur Martin.

Ann Deptula by Tony Rosini.

Richard Foulds by Cindy Heins and George Gratti.

Teresa Groody by Tony Rosini.

George Robert Hoffman by Mildred Blair, Kathy Gonsar and Joe Rocuskie, Audrey and Gerry Mroz and Lorraine and Gary Krebs, Robert's Styling Salon.

Debra Kranzel Horan by Maryanna Swartz.

Leon Jacobs by Coal Township Fire Department.

Pamela Jaeger by Kathy Arndt.

Daniel "Doogie" Karpinskie by Sylvia McCormick and Jacque Robel.

Dorothy Kern by Shamokin-Coal Township Senior Action Center, Robert Shaw, Ralph and Sandy Moore and Jenna Schickley, Chris, Kelly and Hope Apichell.

Joseph Klemanski by Danny and Sandee Ciesluk and family.

Tom Labusky by Morris and Linda Gard.

Dorothy Lamey by Coal Township High School Class of 1946.

Linda Laite by Natalie, Dave, Jack and Jonah Tamkus.

Christian Lebo by Betty Edwards.

Mary Libby by Danny and Sandee Ciesluk and family.

Donald Manley by Tony Rosini.

Barbara A. Rysz by Bob and Joan McAllister.

Ida Salada by Joann, Barbara and Sharon.

Ronald Shaffer by Mom and Dad: Anna Mae and Al and sons.

Julia Staniszewski by Sally Sobotor.

John Straub by Katherine Bogetti.

Joseph Weaver by Frances Tyson and Cindy Heins and family.

Mary and Guy Yocum by Dick and Mary Kashner and Kathy Vetovich.

Charles Young by sisters Anna Mae Shaffer and family and Linda James and family.

Kathleen Zyla by Ron and Christine Anderson, Chris, Kelly and Hope Apichell, Danny and Carol Arnold, Phyllis Barrett, sister Mary Ann Bixler and Joey, Claire, Greg and Brianna Bonshock, Jim and Pat Bressi, Buriaks, Fran and Bud Butkey, Elaine and Art Christ, Danny and Sandee Ciesluk and family, Mr. and Mrs. Steve Dunleavy, Patty, Ronnie and Kelly Geist, Kathy Gonsar, Tony and Mary Harmon, Phyllis and Steve Hile, Bob and Mary Ann Hartman, Cal and Roseanne Harris, Steve and Mary Kanaskie, Lee and Barbara Konjura, Aaron and Erica Kuzmick and family, Bill and Helen Kuzmick and family, the Maher family, John Miller, Vince Mirack, Dave and Christine Molosky, Ralph and Sandy Moore and Bob and Jenna Schickley, Ken and Ann Marie Pogozelski, Dennis and Kathy Richie, Jacque Robel, Walter Sanders, the Seedor family: Kristen, Joshua, Colin and Carly, Shamokin Democratic Women, Robert Shaw, Joann Shurock, Mary Ann and Stephanie Spatzer, Joann Spears, Ron and Diane Stasick, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Talisesky, Corrine Thomas and John, Stesha, Halle and Leah, Greg and Donna Wisloski, Donna and John Yanick, Ruth and John Young, George and Amy Zalar and family, Tico and Sandy Zarick, Pete, Stacy, Emily and Zakary Zanella.

Memorial fund

Margaret Avellino by Mike and Jennifer Karlovich, Ed and Bernie Smink, Ed and Cathy Smith and Sue and Bob Starke.

Kay Breining by Mary Purcell Novack.

Walter "Walt" Britton by Grace Shaffer.

Richard Foulds by Marian Edmondson, Boots and Flash Ramp.

Kathleen Zyla by Cory, Megan, Chloe and Conner Brown, Bruce, Diane and Brianne Graff, Tom and Joyce Hasuga, Edward and Tracey Madden and Bob and Suzanne Starke.

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

Street sweeping changed

SHAMOKIN - Due to the Good Friday holiday, the Shamokin street sweeper will begin Friday, March 27, instead of Monday, March 30.

Clover Hose egg hunt Sunday

MOUNT CARMEL - The Clover Hose Fire Company annual Easter egg hunt, open to all local children up to 10 years of age, is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday at the Mount Carmel baseball fields, Railroad and Hickory streets.

The event is a way for the fire company and emergency personnel to thank those from the community who support their efforts.

Included is a visit from the Easter Bunny and the Clover's mascot, the "Green Gator."

In addition to grabbing eggs, every child who attends will receive a gift.

Those driving into the complex are asked to use the Market Street entrance near the swimming pool. Please watch for children and park in such a way that allows for passage of the fire apparatus.