Two Democrats, no Republicans.

Late Tuesday night, we will know which of the two Democrats - incumbent Ann Targonski or challenger Tony Matulewicz - is the party's nominee for Northumberland County district attorney.

But even though there are no Republicans running for DA, the Democratic primary will not necessarily determine who takes office in January.

There is a possibility either Matulewicz or Targonski, or even someone else, could secure the Republican nomination by write-in votes. If someone other than the Democratic nominee is successful in securing the GOP nomination, the race won't be decided Tuesday, but will be extended to Nov. 3, the general election.

DA primaries are rare, and, in fact, the 2015 Democratic DA primary is the most hotly contested intra-party battle for the office since 1983, when Robert Sacavage, seeking his first term, defeated Jeffrey Apfelbaum.

In addition to aggressively battling for the Democratic prize, both Matulewicz and Targonski are also actively seeking the Republican nomination.

Both realize the stakes are high. A Republican nomination, gained through write-ins, guarantees the victor will either have the office sewed up (if he or she is also the Democratic winner) or, at least, is able to live on to fight another day.

Targonski, with 25 years in the DA's office, took over as district attorney when her former boss, Tony Rosini, became a county judge through an interim appointment. Although she is the incumbent, this is her first campaign for election to the job in her own right. In addition to seeking support from people in her own party, she is taking full advantage of the opportunity to appeal to Republican voters as well.

Targonski has been using "word of mouth" to appeal to Republicans. She's also made phone calls and visited Republican voters while conducting door-to-door campaigning.

In addition, she has sent letters to Republicans who are likely to vote by absentee ballot, asking them to "write me in."

Targonski said she realizes, of course, many Republican voters will decide, in the end, not to vote for anyone at all. But she is hoping that enough of them will realize there is a choice and will opt to vote for her.

Matulewicz, an attorney and member of Mount Carmel Borough Council, is appealing to Republican voters through campaign flyers, word of mouth, door-to-door campaigning and advertising to write his name in. In fact, some of his campaign literature contains instruction on how to do just that on the voting machine keyboard.

Matulewicz has already had success with write-ins. He conducted a last-minute campaign and won a Democratic nomination by write-ins in 2007 for a two-year term on Mount Carmel Borough Council, and then won in the general election. In re-election campaigns in 2009 and 2013, he successfully earned Republican write-in nominations for council in addition to Democratic nominations.

To qualify for a Republican nomination, a candidate must have at least 100 write-in votes in the Republican primary. The Republican nominee, if there is one, will be determined for sure at the official count that starts the Friday after the election.

It's possible the same person could win a Democratic nomination and then also secure the Republican nomination by winning the most write-ins.

It's also possible there could be different nominees in each party. If that is the case, the campaign will go on through the general election; there could theoretically be a continuation of the Targonski-Matulewicz contest.

It's also possible that if they secure sufficient write-ins, Robert Wolfe, Democratic candidate for sheriff, could earn a Republican nomination and Kevin Gilroy, Republican candidate for treasurer, could receive a Democratic one. They are both seeking re-election to their respective positions without any opposition in either party.

MOUNT CARMEL - Mount Carmel Borough has paid its police pension debt and can continue to maintain a team of eight full-time officers into the foreseeable future, council members announced.

The borough received its annual valuation report from the state Public Employee Retirement Commission Tuesday and learned the pension plan is now just 1.2 percent shy of being fully funded.

"The significance of this cannot be understated," said Borough Council President Tony Matulewicz. "We will be able to maintain the current police staffing levels far into the future, a luxury most other local municipalities will not be able to enjoy."

Last year a realization by borough council that the police pension plan was less than 77 percent funded left members questioning the borough's financial security and ability to continue employing eight full-time police officers.

Faced with a growing unfunded liability of just under $1 million, borough council made a drastic move in 2014 to have the Mount Carmel Municipal Authority (MCMA) pre-pay rent on the borough's sewer pipes and plant - which the borough owns but leases to the authority to manage - until 2040.

The borough agreed to give a rent discount of 2 percent to MCMA for the accelerated payment. In turn, MCMA paid a rent bill of $2.2 million, which it had stocked in its coffers. Over the years of the lease, MCMA will save $384,000 from the discount.

The prepayment of rent allowed the borough to move slightly more than $2.85 million into the pension fund this year. Last year the borough put around $150,000 into the fund.

The increase in the principal amount will cause the pension fund to draw greater capital gains profits, compounding the growth rate of the fund over time.

Capital gains occur when the stocks purchased by the pension fund increase in value. While the money is not guaranteed - a total stock market collapse could, in theory, swallow the fund whole - investing in a diverse portfolio negates most individual losses and allows a pension to assume a certain growth rate.

In previous years, the borough has assumed an inflated growth rate of 7 percent - far above what is likely to be earned from stock profits each year. When the pension failed to earn this rate, the borough was still on the hook to make up the difference between earned and expected capital gains by contributing more to the principal.

As years of an inflated growth rate passed, the borough's mandatory contribution to the principal increased exponentially. Matulewicz said by 2031, the annual payment to the pension to make up these losses would have surpassed the total borough budget, effectively eliminating the borough's ability to spend money on anything other than police pensions. The borough would have had to lay off one or more of its eight full-time police officers to lessen the future pension payouts and balance the budget.

"The biggest fear is we would have to lay off a cop because of the enormous amount of responsibility they have," he said. "They have the biggest impact on our quality of life."

The City of Shamokin is facing just that dilemma as it grapples with a 61 percent funded police pension plan. Mount Carmel Township is funded only 60 percent, according to a report by the state Auditor General that estimated 44.2 percent of public pensions statewide were funded below 90 percent in 2014.

By boosting the principal amount, the borough has recalculated the expected growth rate to 3.5 percent, a realistic rate of return that may even result in a surplus.

While the change in growth rate is the biggest factor in the borough balancing the pension account, both the borough and the police have had to make sacrifices to ensure the plan's success. To make the plan work, the police department has to commit to a 1 percent salary increase for the next two years, and the borough budget will lack MCMA's rent until 2040. The long-term benefits are worth the short-term cuts, Matulewicz said.

"Ten years from now somebody's going to be sitting around saying, 'Wow, if they didn't do this we'd really be in trouble,'" he said. "We have taken the biggest threat to the borough's financial health off the table."

Shamokin-Coal Township

Monday - Poker game, 8:30 a.m.; game show, 11 a.m.; world news, noon; unlucky 7s, noon.

Tuesday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; walk-a-mile, 9 a.m.; HISM (week eight), 9:30 a.m.; game show, 11 a.m.; bridge, noon.

Wednesday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; bridge lessons, 9:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 10 a.m.; pinochle and Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; walk-a-mile, 9 a.m.; HSIM (week eight final day), 9:30 a.m.; Memorial Day picnic, 11 a.m., hot dogs, chips and pickles, side dishes and desserts needed; nickel bingo, 12:30 p.m.

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

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

Mount Carmel

Monday - Board games, 9 a.m.; 10 Keys program, 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Tuesday - Election Day. Closed. Other centers will be open.

Wednesday - Friends and family day; 10 Keys program, 10 a.m.; picnic lunch, noon; nickel bingo, 1 p.m.

Thursday - News and morning coffee, 9 a.m.; trip to Jay's Tiffany in Sunbury, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; unlucky 7s and pinochle, 12:30 a.m.

Friday - Wii games, 9:30 a.m.; exercise, 10 a.m.; guest speaker from VNA on hypertension, 12:30 p.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Kulpmont

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

Tuesday - Music, gab and hand held games in the morning; Wii bowling, 10 a.m.; cards, noon; Bible study, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Games and music in the morning; exercise, 10 a.m.; Wii bowling, 10:30 a.m.; LCR, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Coffee and gab in the morning; hand held games, 9:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 10 a.m.; open house and Memorial Day picnic for those who signed up, desserts and covered dishes appreciated, bingo will follow picnic.

Friday - Do your own thing in the morning; puzzles, 9:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 10:30 a.m.; nickel bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Centralia-Wilburton

Monday - Coffee and current events, 9 a.m.; Pokeno, 10:30 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Coffee and toast, 9 a.m.; chair exercise with Carol, 10:30 a.m.; show and tell, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Bookmobile; coffee and snacks, 9 a.m.; pinochle, 10:30 a.m.; popcorn and a movie, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Picture day; coffee and cookies, 9 a.m.; share your photos, 10:30 a.m.; trivia, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Fun Friday! Open activities.

Elysburg

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

Wednesday - Healthy Steps, 8:30 a.m.; royal rummy, 10 a.m.; Family medical checking blood pressure, 10 to 11 a.m.; VNA program on Home Safety, 11 a.m.; bingo, noon.

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

Trevorton

Monday - Members breakfast, 8:30 a.m.; Wii bowling, 9:30 a.m.; exercise, 10 a.m.; unlucky 7s, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Exercise, 10 a.m.; Rummikub, 10:30 a.m.; movie and snack, 12:30 p.m.; evening bingo, 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Exercise, 10 a.m.; Scrabble, 10:30 a.m.; Pokeno, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Exercise, 10 a.m.; Uno, 10:30 a.m.; pinochle, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Wii games, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.; blood pressure screenings, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; exercise, 10:30 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Memorial Day rites in Atlas

ATLAS - American Legion Post 804 has announced plans for Memorial Day activities Monday, May 25.

A breakfast will be held at the post home, Route 61, beginning at 8 a.m. Members of the community are invited to attend a memorial service at 10 a.m. at the monument. The ceremony will conclude with a presentation by the Mount Carmel Area High School Marching Band.

At the conclusion of the service, members will march through the village of Atlas, ending at the Atlas Fire Company memorial, where a service will be held.

Members of the post will also perform memorial services, with times to be determined, at Strong, Beaverdale, Diamondtown and Aristes.

Choral concert at MCA

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Area High School chorus will present a spring concert, appealing to all ages, at 7 p.m. Monday. in the Richard F. Beierschmitt auditorium.

The chorus, under the direction of music teacher Melinda Hoopes, will sing popular songs such as the George Harrison classic, "Here Comes the Sun," the powerful pop song and attention-getter "Radioactive" and the uplifting "Defying Gravity" from the musical "Wicked." Other traditional favorites include the Zambian song "Bonse Aba," the Quaker hymn "How Can I Keep From Singing" and the anthem "The Lord Bless You and Keep You." Accompanist is Sharon Styer. Admission is free and open to the public.

Child safety seat check

SELINSGROVE - Pennsylvania State Police, Selinsgrove Barracks, will conduct a child safety seat check from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday at the Selinsgrove Ford Dealership and from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, at the Hummels Wharf Fire Department.

Two troopers who are certified child safety seat technicians will be available to check safety and booster seats. The event is free to the public, and no appointments are necessary.

Divorces

Ahmad Williams, 1 Kelley Drive, Coal Township, from Sade Williams, 5950 S. Main St., Apt. 210, Los Angeles, Calif. Married Dec. 13, 2012.

Dorothy Gray from Angel Jovel Martinez, both of 249 S. Vine St., Shamokin. Married Sept. 3, 2005.

Dante C. Picarelli from Maria Picarelli, both of 1331 W. Mulberry St., Coal Township. Married Jan. 14, 2000.

Vanessa L. Spang, 1096 Oho Station Road, Herndon, from Levi R. Spang, 215 Herndon Bypass Road, Herndon. Married April 8, 2006.

Marriage licenses

Daniel James Sessions to Megan Elizabeth Hulsizer, both of 1672 W. Spruce St., Coal Township. Issued May 14.

Stephen Andrew Thompson to Jessie Lynn Yost, both of 173 E. Dewart St., Shamokin. Issued May 15.

Stephen Michael Hornberger to Aimee Lynn Snyder, both of 1211 Chestnut st., Kulpmont. Issued May 15.

Levi E. Riehl, of 2813 Shippendam Road, Millersburg, to Elizabeth Ann Smucker, 2404 Route 890, Paxinos. To be issued May 18.

Thomas A. Hawk to Melissa J. Twist, both of 1143 Fern St., Coal Township. To be issued May 18.

Hoss Tommy Moore to Jamie Lee Spock, both of 716 N. Franklin St., Shamokin. To be issued May 18.

Joseph Scott Jones to Jennifer Lynn Berkoski, both of 210 S. Poplar St., Mount Carmel. To be issued May 18.

Joel James Miller to Vanessa Dawn Hoover, both of 120 Mahantongo Creek Road, Dalmatia. To be issued May 18.

Lance M. Raup to Alison Joy Payne, both of 204 Second St., Wilburton. To be issued May 18.

George Max Mccready to Tammy Dee Derk, both of 53 N. Marshall St., Shamokin. To be issued May 18.

Brad David Smeltz to Jennifer Lynn Dick, both of 160 Klingerstown Road, Herndon. To be issued May 18.

Matthew Anthony Guarna, of 114 S. Market St., Mount Carmel, to Danielle Elizabeth Sypniewski, of 43 Wilburton Road, Mount Carmel. To be issued May 18.

Property transfers

Richard J. and Janice E. Fisher and Janice E. Zimmerman to Lori A. Madl, property in Shamokin, $1.

Ronald W. and Sallie Ann Nairns to Richard E. Noecker, property in Shamokin, $1.

James E. and Donna M. Long to Michael Troxell, property in Marion Heights, $14,500.

Richard, Rosanne, Thomas and Dianne Dabulis to Dana R. Catherman II and Jeffrey A. Goodman, property in Coal Township, $28,500.

Joseph J. Yermalovich (executor) and Joseph A. Yermalovich (estate) to Brittany Marie Reid, property in Shamokin, $19,900.

Suzanne Valerio (executrix), Emily A. Sherrick (estate) and Susan aka Suzanne Valerio to David M. and Sherry A. Schaeffer, property in Shamokin, $3,210.

Bret Allen Brosious and Riffany Raker-Brosious to Bret Allen Brosious, property in Lower Augusta Township, $1.

Adam A. and Jordin R. Bednar to Adam A. Bednar, property in Upper Augusta Township, $1.

(Deed correction) Samuel P. and Sherry Ann Ferster to Shane M. and Tiffany N. Spriggle, property in Upper Augusta Township, $1.

Jeremiah R. and Jamie A. Long to Michael J. and Anne M. Gibbs, property in Jackson Township, $1.

Dennis E. and Carol G. Reitz to Joseph R. and Gail E. Weigley, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $1.

John H. and Marcella C. Krissinger to John H. and Marcella C. Krissinger and the John & Marcella Krissinger Irrevocable Residential and Income Trust, property in Jordan Township, $1.

BWH Properties LLC to Fantasy Ruby Corp, property in Mount Carmel Borough, $2,650.

Janice E. Fisher, Janice E. Rehnert and Richard J. Fisher to Janice E. and Richard J. Fisher, property in Shamokin, $1.

Wells Fargo Financial Pennsylvania Inc. (by agent) to Dawn Paczkowski, property in Shamokin, $500.

Michael J. and Kelly A. Snyder to Ryan J. and Megan K. Bird, property in Ralpho Township, $215,000.

Catherine C. Surak (executrix) and Mildred M. aka Mildred Surak (estate) to Catherine C. Surak, property in Shamokin, $1.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Dakota Maneval has been named valedictorian of the 2015 graduating class at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School.

Grace Kathryn Rompolski earned salutatorian honors.

Jessica DeLong is the third-ranked student, while Mikayla Persing and Caitlin Funk are the fourth and fifth-ranked students, respectively.

Graduation ceremonies are scheduled for Thursday.

Dakota Maneval

Maneval is a son of Jonathan and Sherri Maneval, of 486 Second St., Northumberland. He is a grandson of Elwood and June Maneval, Nancy Rocuba and the late Jerome Senoski.

He is a member of St. Monica Parish, Sunbury, where he is an altar server and volunteers for parish fundraising events.

Maneval will attend Saint Francis University, Loretto, where he intends to earn a doctorate in physical therapy.

His high school activities include National Honor Society, student council, of which he is president, and French National Honor Society. He is also a Student Ambassador and a member of respect life club, boys service club, Students Against Destructive Decisions, School Counts! and the varsity basketball team, of which he was captain. He participated in the Degenstein Community Library Book Drive his sophomore and junior years.

He is employed at Subway in Northumberland.

Grace Kathryn Rompolski

Rompolski is a daughter of David and Ann Marie Rompolski, of 510 Balsam St., Coal Township. She is a granddaughter of John and Mary Ann Lyash, Sandra Rompolski and the late Anthony Rompolski.

She is a member of Our Lady of Hope Church, Coal Township, where she volunteered at the parish block party.

Rompolski will attend Drexel University, Philadelphia, to major in mechanical and systems engineering.

Her high school activities include being elected class president. She participated in varsity soccer and cheerleading along with varsity cheerleading for Mount Carmel Area. She was a student aAmbassador and vice president of National Honor Society, and belonged to the French National Honor Society, Students Against Destructive Decisions, girls action league and the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Alumni. She volunteered with the Salvation Army.

Rompolski is employed at Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Jessica DeLong

DeLong is a daughter of Melody DeLong, of 924 N. Shamokin St., Shamokin, and a granddaughter of Marie DeLong and the late Richard DeLong.

She is a member of Mother Cabrini Church, Shamokin.

DeLong will attend Saint Vincent College, Latrobe, and will major in politics.

Her high school activities include Students Against Destructive Decisions, girls action league, student ambassador, varsity soccer, National Honor Society, of which she was president, Spanish National Honor Society, respect life club and yearbook.

She is employed as a babysitter.

Mikayla Persing

Persing is a daughter of Scott and Karen Persing, of 346 Melrose St., Marion Heights, and a granddaughter of Mary Nestico and the late James "Chick" Nestico, and the late George and Loretta Persing.

She is a member of Holy Angels Church, Kulpmont, where she was a member of the youth choir.

Persing will attend Immaculata University, Immaculata, and major in fashion merchandising.

Her high school activities include National Honor Society, of which she was treasurer, Spanish National Honor Society, student ambassador, Students Against Destructive Decisions, girls action league, respect life club, chorus and Lourdes Singers. She was captain of the Lourdes and Mount Carmel Area varsity cheerleading squads. She participated in the Danville Relay for Life and Geisinger's Cancer Survivors Day.

She is employed at Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Caitlin Funk

Funk is a daughter of Mary Louise and Clay Funk, of 1672 Route 890, Paxinos, and a granddaughter of Mary Lou Semicek and the late John Semicek, and June and George Funk.

She is a member of Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Church, Elysburg, where she volunteered for the parish yard sale and Easter egg sale.

Funk will attend Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, and will major in biology.

Her high school activities include being elected student council vice president her senior year. She was class vice president freshman through junior years. She also was a student ambassador and belonged to the National Honor Society, of which she was secretary, and French National Honor Society. She was president of French club, vice president of Students Against Destructive Decisions and president of respect life club. She belonged to girls action league and art club, was captain of the varsity volleyball, basketball and softball teams, was an honor roll student and was homecoming queen. She is an after-school care volunteer and an in-school tutor.

She is employed at the Dairy Queen Grill and Chill, Shamokin Dam.

TREVORTON - The last all-volunteer ambulance company in Northumberland County commemorated its 75th anniversary with a look back at the past and celebration of the future.

The Trevorton Community Ambulance hosted its anniversary observance Saturday at its new building - also marking one year since the ribbon-cutting at that location. The celebration included food, music by the Codi and Joe Show and demonstrations of ambulance equipment.

Charlie Paul, ambulance member, credited strong community support for the ambulance's longevity. He said the company has 25 to 30 people involved in all types of activities including fundraising. Six to eight committed members race out on calls around the clock, he said.

"We can rely on them daily," Paul said.

While other companies have faced dwindling volunteer support, resulting in their demise as all-volunteer organizations, Paul said he hopes Trevorton Community Ambulance will continue on for another 75 years. Three or four more people are signed up for the fall emergency medical technician (EMT) training, he said. Their help is essential in ensuring the small town continues to host its own ambulance service, which will keep response times brief because ambulances won't be traveling in from bigger communities.

"The more volunteers we can get, the longer we can keep our doors open," he said. "And the shorter you wait for an ambulance."

Al Hoffman, assistant chief of the company, paused the celebration around 3 p.m. to remark on the loss of Harry Swinehart, a volunteer with the ambulance for 66 years who still had his radio in his pocket when he passed away two weeks ago at age 85.

Swinehart had joined the ambulance in 1949, nine years after its Feb. 21, 1940 founding. In 1975, he became the company's first certified EMT, long before the training became mandatory for volunteers.

"An EMT gave better care," Hoffman said. "That's what Harry was about."

A pink dogwood tree will be planted in the ambulance's yard in remembrance of Swinehart, said Hoffman.

Memorial Day 1945 in Mahanoy City was anything but a typical day to honor military men and women as a fire ripped through the downtown and destroyed whole blocks and left a smoking ruin.

Referred to as the Great Memorial Day Fire of 1945, it began during the early morning hours of May 30 due to the actions of borough resident Joseph Michael Giblin, who confessed on the same day he set a fire that led to the destruction.

"On the morning after the fire, Chief of Police A.P. McLaughlin and another officer are standing in the vicinity of the burned-out buildings and Giblin is seen walking down the street," said Mahanoy Area Historical Society webmaster and archivist Paul Coombe. "The chief calls to Joe and Joe tries to walk away. He's called again and Giblin comes over and basically says, 'I did it."

Coombe said Giblin was arrested, taken to the police station and confessed. A digital copy of Giblin's five-page confession is in the society's records.

"He's taken to Schuylkill County Courthouse on May 31, and on June 1 he's on his way to Eastern State Penitentiary."

The fire will be featured in a special presentation at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the Mahanoy Area School District auditorium as part of a PowerPoint program showing many rare photos of the fire and its aftermath.

The program will be narrated by Schuylkill Historical Fire Society President Michael J. Kitsock and Michael Glore, a lieutenant at Rescue Company No. 1 in Reading and a Pottsville firefighter. The program is sponsored by the fire society, Mahanoy Area and Schuylkill County historical societies.

Coombe, who is also the room manager at the society's museum, spoke about the history of the fire and showed photos taken by local photographer Bill Kates and others in the society's museum room. Also on hand was former society president Thomas Ward Sr., Joseph "Rocky" Holland, who witnessed the fire, and retired newspaper reporter Edward Conrad.

"Sometime close to 3 o'clock, a watchman at the Reading Station saw a glow in the sky and apparently called the police," Coombe said. "At that time, they had policemen walking the streets on duty. The policeman turned in the alarm at Catawissa Street."

Coombe said the weather that evening was conducive in helping to spread the fire.

"It was a very, very windy night, and Rocky said he remembers snow flurries, and this was May 30," Coombe said. "It was so windy that some of the embers from the burning buildings ended up in the cemeteries up on the hill. People who went to put flowers on the graves the next day were picking embers off the graves. The location where the fire started with all that combustible material, and the wind and the breaking of the fire hydrant initially was just a recipe for disaster."

Coombe surmised that fire companies also operated with many of their experienced volunteers not being available.

"Nothing was ever said about this, but you have to wonder that there had to be a lot of firemen who weren't there because they were in the service," Coombe said, to which Holland and Ward agreed. On the day of the fire, Ward was 18 and serving in the Army.

"The more experienced people probably weren't around, although I never read anything about that, but it seems logical," Coombe said.

"That's true," Ward said.

Coombe said the firefighters did a great job fighting the fire under horrendous conditions.

The society also has a copy of the notebook of fire marshal Wassel Govera with detailed information about all of the fires during his one-year term in office, which includes the May 30 fire. The notebook has information about insurance companies that covered the losses for each business and information about the five previous fires that Giblin also confessed to have set, Coombe said.

"One of the most interesting things about this fire, and it's amazing to me, is that the fire was set by this guy at 3 o'clock in the morning on May 30, and on June 1 he's sitting in Eastern State Penitentiary (in Philadelphia)," Coombe said. "Confession, conviction, sentencing in 48 hours. Can you imagine that today?"

In his confession, Giblin, who identified himself as Joseph Mullahey, but "known around Mahanoy City as Joseph Giblin," admitted to setting fires on April 23 and 29, May 14, 18 and 19. In his confession on the May 30 fire, he said:

"On May 30, 1945, about 3:10 a.m., I went to a (train) car on the Reading Railroad and took two hands full of waste from the journal box and took this waste to a garage at 124-126 W. Railroad St., Mahanoy City. I placed the waste through a cat hole on the inside of the building and lit it with a match and left after I saw the building catch fire."

Coombe said Giblin died in the state prison in Dallas in 1973.

Holland, 84, was 15 at the time of the fire and lived about a block away on West Pine Street.

He said he heard the alarm go off and could smell smoke so he jumped out of bed, got dressed, ran downstairs and opened the door.

"The sky was red and pieces of wood were flying over. The fire was about a block away and you could see it," Holland said. "Everything was burning and flames were shooting up. Debris was flying all over and people were worried about the roofs on their houses. People had buckets and were throwing water on their roofs. It was very windy. Everything was flying because of the wind and you didn't know where it was going to land."

Holland said that it was chaos with so many building burning at the same time.

"Everybody was screaming and hollering. They (firefighters) didn't know what to do because they weren't trained for something that big," Holland said. "Like Tommy (Ward) said, most of the young guys were in the service, so it was mostly young kids and old guys trying to fight the fire. Then you heard the alarm from Shenandoah and Frackville and trucks coming in. Trucks were coming in from the whole county."

Conrad told a story he heard from a reliable source about the fire.

"Someone who is a good source, older than me, who was at the fire said the firemen were pumping water from the (Mahanoy) creek, and McLaren's store that had gas pumps. The owner got so scared of an explosion because the fire was moving down to his place," Conrad said. "He rigged the pipes so he could send the gasoline into the creek. The firemen had no idea."

In one of the front page articles in the May 31 edition of The Record-American, writer Joseph H. Davis wrote:

"Today, the smoldering ruins, a grim reminder of the worst conflagration ever to occur in the borough, was still being deluged with water by firemen. Thirty business buildings were either totally destroyed, extensively damaged or seriously affected by smoke and water, as were four homes and a row of garages extending along Railroad Street from Locust Street to below Linden Street.

"Seven business places were also affected by the fire to a lesser degree, the principal damage being occasioned by smoke and water. Thirty-eight families residing in apartments in the business area were made homeless and 21 business firms were either wiped out or suffered almost complete loss. Four others suffered heavy losses and 11 were affected to a lesser degree."

The firefighters had problems right from the time they arrived. Coombe said that when the firemen got to the scene, the first fire hydrant they went to broke, so it took them awhile to start fighting this.

"The fire was set in the back of a wallpaper store, so you can imagine the fire having a 20- to 30-minute headstart. And on that block was a paint store and a place with roofing supplies. It was like a tinderbox," he said.

Conrad added that as bad as the 1945 fire was, Shenandoah has the distinction of a larger conflagration.

"It was in 1883 when 14 blocks went down," Conrad said. "That is the worst fire in the history of the coal region. There was one fatality, who was a businessman from Tamaqua who lived in Shenandoah. He heard about the fire and took the train to Shenandoah, was dropped off and ran to his house, there was nothing left and he had a heart attack."

Ward, 88, of Mahanoy City, said he learned about the fire through letters from home. Coombe said a fire story was published in the military newspaper Stars and Stripes.

"I was in Germany when the war ended," said World War II Army veteran Francis Chesko, Mahanoy City, who walked in during the interview. "I learned about it a few days later."

Primary election voters Tuesday will nominate candidates for two seats on the Northumberland County Court of Common Pleas, and Democrats and Republicans have exactly the same choices.

Three judge candidates - Hugh Alan Jones, Paige Rosini and H. Robert Mattis Jr. - cross-filed in both primaries, so all three, regardless of their individual party affiliation, are battling for both Democratic and Republican nominations.

Since voters are picking two and there are three in the race, it is a certainty that one of the candidates will secure the nominations of both parties. There are two - and only two - scenarios otherwise for what will happen Tuesday:

- A second candidate could also be nominated in both the Democratic and Republican primaries. If that occurs, the two candidates with double nominations will be virtually assured of election in November because theirs will be the only two names on the general election ballot.

- One candidate could receive a Democratic nomination, and another could gain the Republican nod. That being the case, with the third having secured nominations in both parties, the judicial campaign will continue through the fall campaign with the same trio of candidates on the ballot in the general election.

If the three candidates remain in the judicial race in November, the one who has secured the dual nominations is not necessarily assured of election. That candidate would enjoy some advantage owing to the fact that he or she would be guaranteed a vote for every straight ticket cast in the general election. However, it is still possible that the two candidates with single nominations could poll higher.

If all three judicial candidates stay alive past the primary, their campaigns and political observers will be looking closely at the total votes each receives overall in the primary election. The candidate with the most votes overall (the total of Democratic and Republican votes) might not necessarily be the candidate with the dual nomination, but that candidate could logically be perceived as being "strongest," at least as of May 19. Independents and minor party members who could not vote in the primary will also have a voice in picking the judges in November.

Jones, 64, of Elysburg and a native of Mount Carmel, has been the magisterial district judge for the Mount Carmel area since 2009. He is also a practicing attorney in the Sunbury law firm of Diehl, Dluge, Jones and Michetti. Prior to becoming an attorney, Jones served as Northumberland County chief clerk in the late 1970s and later worked for the state Department of Revenue.

Mattis, 64, of Shamokin, is a partner with his wife, Caran Cress Mattis, in the Shamokin law firm of Mattis & Mattis. Much of his focus as an attorney has been in the practice of family law as well as real property, probate and trust law. In his early days as an attorney, he was a law clerk for President Judge Peter Krehel and, more recently, served as Shamokin city solicitor from 2008 to 2013.

Rosini, 47, of Coal Township, started her legal career in 1995 in the law firm of her late father, James J. Rosini. She has served as an assistant public defender of Northumberland County. Her law practice also handles family law, guardianship, estate planning and real estate.

Retirement age no factor

The mandatory retirement age for judges in Pennsylvania is now 70. That means that although his 10-year term would not normally expire until the end of 2017, President Judge William H. Wiest, who turns 70 in July, will not be able to serve past the end of this year. That is why there are two seats on the ballot. The other judge leaving office at year's end is Tony Rosini, who is serving an interim term to fill a vacancy that resulted from the resignation of Robert B. Sacavage at the beginning of 2014.

There is a serious move in Pennsylvania to increase the mandatory retirement age for county and state judges from 70 to 75 years, but state Rep. Kate Harper, who sponsors the bill, confirmed Friday that it will not be enacted in time to affect judicial races this year. After legislative passage, the constitutional amendment effecting the change would have to pass a voter referendum.

Wiest had previously said that if he was constitutionally able to do so, he might have decided to complete the balance of his term.

Tuesday is Election Day. Your vote is your voice. Too many people don't use their voice, then they complain about the outcome. Cast your vote - it's only your future we're talking about.

Now that it's getting warmer, we look for outdoor adventures. Luckily, Schuylkill County comes alive with spring activities. If you ever find yourself with nothing to do and wondering what's going on, the Schuylkill Visitors Bureau is a great resource. In addition to information on local events and destinations, including an event calendar, their website also features dining, things to do, shopping, camping, road trip information, access to the 2015 Visitors Guide and more. Check them out at www.schuylkill.org.

Sweet Arrow Lake invites you to their Introduction to Canoeing and Kayaking Class at 2 p.m. May 25. Learn the basics of water safety, paddling and control. The event is suitable for teens and adults, and it is free, but registration is required by calling 570 345-8952.

The fourth annual Care Net Golf Scramble will take place May 29 at the Schuylkill Country Club. Registration is from 11 a.m. to noon with a noon shotgun start. Participation fee includes lunch, golf and steak dinner. Hassle-free golf on the course with no solicitations. Limit of 22 teams. Call 570-624-7244 to register or for details.

The Penn State Master Gardeners invite you to a walking workshop from 10 a.m. to noon May 30 at Tuscarora State Park. Learn native plants and plant lore during the one-mile easy walk. Registration and fee is required by calling 570-622-4225.

The Schuylkill County Council for the Arts is proud to announce their summer art camp, including nine exciting art courses with experienced instructors for age groups of 3 to 5, 6 to 14 and teen/adult. Sessions include a variety of music and visual and performing arts. Session I will be held from June 15 to 18 and June 22 to 25. Sessions II and III will take place in July. Call 570-622-2788, extension 24 to register or for details.

You know your favorite animal shelter is in constant need of monetary and animal food donations, but it takes so much more to run their facility. The Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA has a wish list that includes cat litter, stainless steel cages, pet toys, blankets, postage stamps, laundry detergent and cleaning supplies, 13-gallon trash bags, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, small paper plates, storage tubs, energy efficient bulbs, duct tape, and zip ties. You can find the entire list on their website at www.rsmspca.org.

Your blood is one of them most precious gifts you can give someone. Blood and its components are used to treat cancer patients, premature babies and surgical patients in addition to those facing a medical emergency. You never know if you'll need a transfusion and you probably know someone who has already used these services at some time.

There is no substitute for blood and because it has a relatively short shelf life, ongoing blood drives are vital. There are three local drives this week. The Pine Grove Ambulance Building will host May 19, Good Shepherd Building in Minersville May 21, and DG Yuengling Inc. May 22. It's a quick, simple process that can help someone in dire need; take the time to donate. Anyone who weighs at least 110 pounds and is in general good health is encouraged to donate.

Community Volunteers in Action is the volunteer center for Schuylkill County. Use the preceding contact info for those specific opportunities and find other listings on our website at www.schuylkill.us/cvia. Call us at 570-628-1426 or e-mail to jjohnston@co.schuylkill.pa.us. Check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/communityvolunteersinaction.

Hospital volunteers

Times: Times vary per assignment. Four-hour shifts available.

Responsibility: Greeters to direct patients and visitors in Emergency room, gift shop clerk to help customers, information desk greeter to guide visitors.

Skills: Friendly, courteous, and maintain a high level of professionalism. Emergency room greeter must be able to work under pressure.

Location: Schuylkill Medical Center East and South.

Contact: Mary Bardell, 570-621-4193

Road to Recovery drivers

Time: As needed and available. Choose own assignment.

Responsibility: Drive cancer patients to treatment appointments.

Skills: Valid driver's license, reliable vehicle with insurance, minimal age of 18, clear background check and driver check, and complete brief orientation program online.

Location: Drive from patient's home to in or out of county treatment facility.

Contact: Jennifer Washney, American Cancer Society, 570-562-9749.

Voters participating in Tuesday's primary election will be nominating state Supreme Court justices for November's ballot, but it's three county-level races that will likely generate the biggest headlines come Wednesday morning.

Northumberland County's premiere races include those for district attorney, judge of the court of common pleas and commissioner.

Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.

There are 53,262 registered voters in the county heading into Tuesday, but because of Pennsylvania's closed primary system, 6,692 of them are not eligible to vote Tuesday. The primary is open only to those voters who are affiliated with one of the major political parties. Currently there are 24,665 Republicans and 21,905 Democrats.

County lineup

Ann Targonski and Tony Matulewicz are running for the Democratic nomination for district attorney. Targonski was appointed to the position last July following the resignation of Tony Rosini, who was named to fill a vacancy on the county court. There are no Republican candidates on the ballot for DA.

There are three candidates for two judgeships. Hugh A. Jones, H. Robert Mattis Jr. and Paige Rosini cross-filed in both parties.

Kevin P. Gilroy, incumbent county treasurer, is running unopposed in the Republican primary and there are no Democratic candidates on the ballot. Similarly, Sheriff Robert Wolfe is unopposed for the Democratic nomination with no Republicans running.

Eight candidates are running in the primary for county commissioner - five Democrats and three Republicans, with two to be nominated in each party. Candidates, in the order they appear on the ballot, are Kym Best, George Zalar, Tom Aber, Myron Turlis and Nathan Savidge, Democrats, and Samuel Schiccatano, Rick Shoch and Michael Millett, Republicans.

State judgeships

At the top of the ballot are wide-open races for state judgeships.

Justice of the Supreme Court (three seats): Democrats, David Wecht (Allegheny County), Christine Donohue (Allegheny County), Kevin P. Dougherty (Philadelphia County), John Henry Foradora (Jefferson County), Anne E. Lazarus (Philadelphia County) and Dwayne D. Woodruff (Allegheny County), and Republicans, Correale Stevens (Montgomery County), Anne Covey (Bucks County), Rebecca Warren (Montour County); Mike George (Adams County), Cheryl Allen (Allegheny County) and Judy Olson (Allegheny County).

Judge of the Superior County (one seat), Alice Beck Dubow (Philadelphia County) and Robert Colville (Allegheny County), and Republican, Emil Giordino (Northampton County).

Judge of the Commonwealth Court (vote for one): Democrats, Todd Eagen (Lackawanna County) and Michael Wojcik (Allegheny County), and Republican, Paul Lalley (Allegheny County).

Contested municipal races

There are contested races in just a handful of municipalities in eastern Northumberland County and for the Mount Carmel Area School Board:

Coal Township commissioner: Four Democrats are on the ballot, but three will be nominated. The candidates are George Zalar, Gene A. Welsh Jr., Bernie Rumberger, all incumbents, and Peter J. Long.

Mount Carmel Borough Council: Only Democrat Leroy "Chico" Moser is on the ballot for three open seats in Mount Carmel, but three residents have come forward as write-in candidates. Robert Barrett, Charmagne Cimino and Joseph J. Kripplebauer Jr. are all Democrats. It's worth noting that voters do not have to stay along party lines when casting a write-in vote. In this example, a Republican could vote for any of the Democratic write-ins. At the same time, a Republican could also write in Moser's name, too, since he's not on the Republican ballot.

Mount Carmel Township supervisor: Two Democrats, Bruce Facer and Aaron Domanski, are on the ballot, with just one to be nominated to be on the general election ballot. Neither is an incumbent. In November, township voters will elect a candidate to fill a seat on the board formerly held by Joseph A. Zanella, who died March 20. Democratic and Republican parties have until Sept. 4 to pick candidates for the four-year term, which is separate from the full six-year term on the board that is being contested in the primary. The losing candidate from the Domanski-Facer race is not eligible to be nominated by certificate as a candidate for the four-year position. The person who is elected to fill Zanella's position will serve the balance of his term, which runs until January 2019.

Mount Carmel Area School Board: Because school board candidates are eligible to cross-file, the same six candidates are on both the Democratic and Republican tickets in a race for five seats. The candidates are James P. Britt, Jessica M. Delaney, Robert E. Muldowney Jr., Brian Shurock, Michael Scott Venna and John Laughlin. Laughlin's death on April 15 came too late to have his name taken off the ballot. In the event Laughlin wins the primary, a substitute nomination certificate will be sent to the respective political party inviting the party to nominate a substitute to fill the ballot vacancy.

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

John Gembic III, Shamokin

Shr-Jing Chen against Shane and Stacey Drumheller, all of Coal Township, for $956, filed May 14. No hearing date has been scheduled.

Shamokin Housing Authority against Samantha Santey, both of Shamokin, for $1,388, filed May 11. A hearing has been scheduled for May 28.

Shamokin Housing Authortiy against Vanesa Lehman, both of Shamokin, for $130, filed May 11. A hearing has been scheduled for May 28.

Fred Hummel, of Elysburg, awarded $4,288.75 in rent and costs May 11 from Fred Scott, of Coal Township.

Leonard and Cindy Popewczak, of Shamokin, awarded $1,108.75 in rent and costs May 4 from Tiffany Haddock and Brandon Brown, both of Shamokin.

JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT

(Vote for not more than Three)

David WECHT (D)

(Allegheny County)

Christine DONOHUE (D)

(Allegheny County)

Kevin M. DOUGHERTY (D)

(Philadelphia County)

John Henry FORADORA (D)

(Jefferson County)

Anne E. LAZARUS (D)

(Philadelphia County)

Dwayne D. WOODRUFF (D)

(Allegheny County)

Correale STEVENS (R)

(Montgomery County)

Anne COVEY (R)

(Bucks County)

Rebecca WARREN (R)

(Montour County)

Mike GEORGE (R)

(Adams County)

Cheryl ALLEN (R)

(Allegheny County)

Judy OLSON (R)

(Allegheny County)

Sewer office to move to Shamokin

SHAMOKIN - Starting today, the offices of the Shamokin-Coal Township Joint Sewer Authority will temporarily move to 520 N. Shamokin Street, Shamokin, until further notice. Office hours will remain the same, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Bills can be paid on the Independence Street side of the building, where a walk-up window will be established.

SHAMOKIN - Old was new at the Shamokin Knights of Columbus Sunday afternoon as families joined together to swap gently used children's toys and clothing.

The event, which drew 114 registrants, was the first of its kind by Marty Sinopoli Ministries. Founder Marty Sinopoli said she anticipated hosting more swaps twice a year in spring and fall.

Sinopoli said the board decided to give swapping clothing and toys a go instead of just collecting and distributing donations after realizing many parents had a stockpile of gently used items but needed other things for different-aged children.

Participants were asked to bring 20 items, which were inspected to insure they were stain-free and in working order. Items donated to the ministry were mixed in and added to the stacks of clothing organized in neat piles by size. A collection of toys, which included favorites like Duplo blocks, a rocking horse and Barbie Dreamhouse, drew the eyes of children who eagerly tested them out before the swap began.

"Almost everything is name brand," said Sinopoli. "We got a lot of donations of just beautiful things."

Participants took turns selecting items from the swap. At 4 p.m., after everyone had selected the same number of items brought to the swap, participants were allowed to fill bags with the leftovers for $5.

The event also featured refreshments and a basket raffle. All money raised went back to the ministry for future events.

SUNBURY - The Northumberland County Coroner Office is requesting the assistance of the general public in locating living blood relatives of 75-year-old Rose M. Temple, of Vine Street, Sunbury, who passed away Saturday, May 16, 2015, in Sunbury. She was last employed in the deli department at Weis Market and was the widow of Ted Temple, who died in 2004. Those with information should contact Coroner James F. Kelley via the County Communication Center at 570-988-4539.

SUNBURY - Photos and identifying information of persons wanted in Northumberland County are popping up on the newly created Facebook page for the sheriff's office.

Names, last known addresses, physical descriptions and brief warrant information was posted Monday for 12 individuals, with photos for eight. Unpaid child support and court costs along with skipped sentencing hearings were cited. Posts included men and women, and people from the Milton, Sunbury, Shamokin and Mount Carmel areas.

The Facebook initiative and a soon-to-be-launched billboard campaign are the latest efforts of the Cost Collections Task Force of Northumberland County. Publicized reports alone have led 16 people to turn themselves in Monday, according to Prothonotary Justin Dunkelberger. He said there was a theme: none wanted to see their photos posted online or along a highway.

Billboards will cost $750 each annually, Dunkelberger said, while a Facebook site is free.

More than $800,000 in unpaid costs and fines has been collected this year, up 30 percent over last year's pace. The committee's goal is to top $2 million in collections in 2015, besting the $1.6 million collected a year ago.

Jim Cortelyou, chief adult probation officer, Sheriff Robert Wolfe, President Judge William H. Wiest and Dunkelberger serve on the committee. Their respective staffs all play a large role in the efforts to recover as much as possible of the nearly $23 million in unpaid court costs that mounted since 1965.

Probation officers and sheriff's deputies have gone door to door seeking payments. Public notices circulated urging offenders to pay up or establish payment plans. A private collections agency was contracted to concentrate on 1,800 dockets between 1970 and 2000 with nearly $2 million outstanding. A list of delinquents is also on the Northumberland County website, www.northumberlandco.org.

SUNBURY - These statewide, county and local municipal races will be on today's ballots in Northumberland County, according to the bureau of elections. Listings follow the ballot order (except in cases where candidates are cross-filed, in which only one of the two listings is provided).

Statewide

Justice of the Supreme Court

(Vote for not more than three)

Democratic: David Wecht, Allegheny County; Christine Donohue, Allegheny County; Kevin M. Dougherty, Philadelphia County; John Henry Foradora, Jefferson County; Anne E. Lazarus, of Philadelphia County; Dwayne D. Woodruff, Allegheny County.

Republican: Correale Stevens, Montgomery County; Anne Covey, Bucks County; Rebecca Warren, Montour County; Mike George, Adams County; Cheryl Allen, Allegheny County; Judy Olson, Allegheny County.

Judge of the Superior Court

(Vote for one)

Democrat: Alice Beck Dubow, Philadelphia County; Robert Colville, Allegheny County.

Republican: Emil Giordino, Northampton County.

Judge of the Commonwealth Court

(Vote for one)

Democrat: Todd Eagen, Lackawanna County; Michael Wojcik, Allegheny County.

Republican: Paul Lalley, Allegheny County.

Countywide

Judge of the Court of Common Pleas

(Vote for not more than two)

Crossfiled candidates: Paige Rosini, Coal Township; Hugh Alan Jones, Ralpho Township; H. Robert Mattis Jr., Shamokin.

County Commissioner

(Vote for not more than two)

Democratic: Kym Best, George L. Zalar, Tom Aber, Myron F. Turlis, Nathan R. Savidge.

Republican: Samuel Schiccitano, Michael Millett, Rick Shoch.

County Treasurer

(Vote for one)

Republican: Kevin P. Gilroy.

District Attorney

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Tony Matulewicz, Ann Targonski.

Sheriff

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Robert Wolfe.

Local races

Coal Township

Township Commissioner

(Vote for not more than three.)

Democratic: George L. Zalar, Gene A. Welsh Jr., Peter J. Long, Bernie Rumberger.

Republican: Jamie Saleski, Walter Quade.

Constable

(Vote for not more than two)

Democratic: Richard Dale Wright Jr., John D. Seiler Jr.

Republican: George Jones.

East Cameron Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Republican: Norman A. Foura

Kulpmont

Member of Council

(Vote for not more than three)

Republican: Walt Lutz

Democratic: George M. Malakoski.

Auditor

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Donna M. Rompallo.

Constable

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Lawrence J. Rompallo.

Marion Heights

Member of Council

(Vote for not more than two)

Republican: Frank J. Sheptock.

Mount Carmel

Member of council

(Vote for not more than three)

Democratic: Leroy Chico Moser.

Mount Carmel Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Bruce Facer, Aaron Domanski.

Constable

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Marilyn K. Simmons.

Ralpho Township

Tax Collector - two-year term.

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Amy Snyder.

Supervisor

(Vote for not more than two)

Democratic: Vincent P. Daubert, Stephen A. Major.

Shamokin

Member of Council

(Vote for not more than two)

Republican: Dan McGaw, John J. Brown.

Constable (Wards 4-8)

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Kevin S. Mains Sr.

West Cameron Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Republican: Michael M. Moore.

Constable

(Vote for one)

Republican: Floyd Maurer.

Zerbe Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Mike Schwartz.

Herndon

No candidates listed on ballot. Offices open: two-year term for mayor, two seats on council, two-year term on council, three auditors and constable.

Jackson Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Lester S. Neitz Jr.

Jordan Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Republican: Gary L. Sitlinger, Fritz Snyder.

Little Mahanoy Township

No candidates listed for: supervisor, four-year term supervisor, auditor, auditor for a four-year term, and constable.

Lower Augusta Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Paul L. Troup III

Auditor

(Vote for one)

Republican: Stacey L. Brown.

Lower Mahanoy Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Republican: Earl A. Wolfgang Jr., Larry L. Adams.

Auditor

(Vote for one)

Republican: Karen L. Paul

Constable

(Vote for one)

Republican: Robert P. Spotts.

Rockefeller Township

Auditor

(Vote for one)

Republican: Melody Hayner

Rush Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Ferdinand A. Diminick

Republican: Leon Woodruff, Scott L. Beagle.

Shamokin Township

No candidates listed for supervisor.

Snydertown

Member of Council

(Vote for not more than three)

Democratic: Paul E. Shaw.

Upper Augusta Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Republican: Rebecca Ray.

Upper Mahanoy Township

Supervisor

(Vote for one)

Democratic: Brett A. Kahler, Zachary J. Kahler

Republican: Eric Klinger.

Supervisor, two-year term

(Vote for one)

Republican: Jonathan E. Kahler.

Constable

(Vote for one)

Republican: Glenn E. Masser.

Shamokin Area School District

School director

(Vote for not more than five)

Cross-filed candidates: Jeff Kashner, Robert C. Getchey, Charles H. Shuey, Bernard M. Sosnoskie, Ronald McElwee.

Mount Carmel Area School District

School director

(Vote for not more than five)

Cross-filed candidates: John Laughlin, Jessica M. Delaney, James P. Britt, Brian Shurock, Robert E. Muldowney, Michael Scott Venna.

Southern Columbia Area School District

School director

(Vote for not more than four)

School director-two year term

(Vote for one)

Cross filed candidates: Thomas Reich, Kaye Keller, Gail Zambor Schuerch, Gary Wilson

Republican: John Yocum.

Line Mountain School District

Region 1 (Herndon, Little Mahanoy Township, Lower Augusta Township, Washington Township, Upper Mahanoy Township)

School director

(Vote for one)

Region 2 (Jackson Township, Jordan Township, Lower Mahanoy Township)

School director

(Vote for two)

Crossfiled candidate: Lauren Hackenburg

Republican: Troy Laudenslager

Region 3 (West Cameron Township, Zerbe Township)

School director

(Vote for two)

Crossfiled candidates: David Scott Bartholomew and Marlin F. Yeager Jr.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Plans were finalized for the Second annual Duck Drop for benefit of the Salvation Army during a meeting of the Advisory Board held Thursday at the army headquarters, 1300 W. Spruce St.

Ron (Buddy) Knoebel, a member of the advisory board and chairman of the Duck Drop, announced the "drop" will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, at the Giant Flume at Knoebels Amusement Resort, Elysburg.

Co-owner of the popular amusement park, Knoebel initiated plans for the first "drop" last year to raise extra funds for the Salvation Army to be used to help the large number of needy families in the Shamokin-Coal Township, Mount Carmel and surrounding areas assisted by the army.

Grand prize for the event is a $200 Knoebels Vacation Package. There will be 30 additional prizes.

Knoebel said there will be three races and purchase of a $10 ticket will give the participant a duck in each of the three races. The top 10 winners in each race will receive a gift card with those top finishers vying in a final race for the grand prize.

The event chairman said the ducks are currently "in training" and will be ready for the big race on June 6. "Buddy" said those purchasing a ticket need not be present, but all are welcome to view the race and cheer on their entry.

All winners will be contacted via telephone within a few days after the race.

Tickets may be purchased at the Salvation Army Thrift Store, Independence Street, at the Salvation Army headquarters or from any member of the advisory board. A limited number of tickets will be sold.

Maj. Tina Streck, commanding officer, and fellow members of the advisory board commended Knoebel for his organizational efforts during the inaugural race last year and were assured by Knoebel that this year's event will be bigger and better and even more financially successful.

Knoebel initiated the event last year during to the increased need to help regional families not only during the Christmas holiday, but throughout the entire year.

Judy Orner, social services director for the Salvation Army. said 285 individuals were assisted during the previous month. She said many new items and more fresh produce is available for clients.

Brian Persing, a member of the advisory board and co-chairman of the benefit adult basketball tournament, along with Chris Venna, also a board member and Shamokin Area High School principal, gave a final report and termed the event a "huge success" with the Salvation Army receiving $3,500 to be used to assist needy families.

Persing said there was plenty of help from board members and other volunteers and gifts from indivuduals and business people were very generous. "It was a great job," Henry Linton, board president. said of Persing and Venna.

Persing said his hopes for future tournaments would be to add a few more teams in the womens' division. This year's event included three-point competition and a youth league game.

Maj. Streck gave a report on the state's child abuse law and sail all volunteers at the thrift store will fill out the necessary paper work. Linton added that the new abuse law is a "serious thing."

The major said work will begin shortly on improvements to the exterior wall of the gymnasium to alleviate a flooding problem along with a potential mold issue. A wall will be replaced at the rear entrance to the gym along with new entrance doors. Streck said once the improvements are completed she would hope to see more use of the gym.

A discussion was held concerning the thrift store building and a continuing problem with garbage being dropped off in the rear of the store.

Attending the advisory meeting in addition to Maj. Streck, Orner, Knoebel, Linton and Persing, were Janice Kotwica, Harry Deitz, Jan Diorio and Paul Metrocavage.

Next meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 11.

BURNSIDE - The Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) is looking for three rangers to rove its trails.

The AOAA authority approved advertising the new ranger position on a 3-0 vote at Monday's meeting. Authority members Barry Yorwarth and David Crowl were absent.

The job description lists the position as 20 to 30 hours per week including weekends and holidays at a pay rate of $9 to $15.

Authority Chairman Jim Backes said the rangers would serve as the equivalent of National Park rangers and would perform duties like directing parking, guiding guests and towing disabled vehicles.

"The primary focus of an AOAA ranger is to be out on the trails ensuring our riders have a good time," said Backes. "It's more about giving out information and helping our users."

"They're there to get folks in the right direction," said authority member Pat Mack.

Anyone interested in the position can apply at the AOAA trailhead or online at www.indeed.com.

In other news:

- Attending authority members unanimously elected to make a $100 donation to the Shamokin Area High School football team for new uniforms.

Players and parents raised nearly $600 for the same purpose Saturday and Sunday by hosting a food stand at the trailhead. A total of $6,000 is needed to purchase new home team uniforms.

- Rob Feldman, general manager of Rausch Creek Powersports, thanked the AOAA authority and staff for hosting a "field trip" for members of the Rausch Creek Trailriders. Feldman said 10 off-road vehicles participated in the event, which included a tour of the property by Operations Director David Porzi.

Feldman invited Porzi to bring AOAA members down to Rausch Creek, located near Valley View, for a similar event. He thanked the park for "supporting this vision of the area becoming a destination" for off-road riding.

"Let's keep doing that," he said.