MOUNT CARMEL - A new store in the heart of downtown is offering a wide selection of new and gently used clothing. Michelle Zarko, who co-owns The Closet Door, Resale and Consignment Boutique, at 10 S. Oak St., with her husband, Paul, said the store carries brand name, new and gently used affordable clothing for males and females of all ages and sizes, including formal dresses, scrubs and shoes.

Miscellaneous items for sale include household items, such as used appliances, crafts, small electronics and children's toys. Items made locally are Reed Wreaths, Peachys Patch Jewelry, all-natural soaps and "Diaper Tricycles." Zarko said she will soon start selling helium balloons, with delivery service possible.

Zarko started her career selling goods via Ebay, but decided to branch out after a disagreement with the online auction site. She opened the store on March 14 at the former Jaimee's Bridal store. A rack with dozens of wedding dresses from the former store are for sale. They are all priced at $200 or under, she said.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Consignment by appointment only. The phone number is 570-274-4449.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Organizers of the second annual Salvation Army Benefit Duck Drop announced during a recent meeting of the Salvation Army Advisory Board that $3,000 was raised by the race to assist needy families in the area.

An official list of winners was released for the event held earlier this month at the Giant Flume at Knoebels Amusement Resort.

Ron (Buddy) Knoebel, co-owner of the amusement park and a member of the advisory board, initiated the idea for the first duck drop last year and served as event chairman. The duck drops benefit needy families in the Shamokin, Mount Carmel, Trevorton, Elysburg, Kulpmont and surrounding areas.

Maj. Tina Streck, commanding officer, Henry Linton, advisory board chairman, and other members of the board praised Knoebel, Judy Orner, social services director, all who sold tickets or assisted with the event and the many individuals and groups who donated prizes.

Jack Murdock, board member, led the group in a discussion of ideas to make the race even bigger and better in future years. He suggested more promotion of the event and more sponsors. Brian Persing, board member, said it is important to have help from all active board members. Linton suggested starting to plan earlier.

The grand prize winner was Jeannie Reedy, who won a Knoebels vacation package valued at $200. Second-place winner was Roxie Murdock, who won gift certificates from Burger King, Subway and Lowe's. Third place went to Gabby, Ava and Gavin Carnuccio, who won certificates to Weis, Red Robin and Domino's.

Winners for the A race and their certificates: Marie McCollum, Weis; Jalen Linton, Walmart; Clare Tiberia, Burger King; Dick Kashner Giant; Lacie Zehner, Applebees; Margaret Knoebel, OIP; Knoebels Guest Relations, Old Forge Brewery; Dick Knoebel, Giant; Dave Donmoyer, Olive Garden, and Maj. Tina Streck, Brewsers.

B Race winners: Guest Relations, Applebees; Donna R, Giant; Trevor, Mary, Ethan and Alex Knoebel, Turkey Hill; Tammy Glowatski, Olive Garden; Jodi Berry, Old Forge Brewery; Mary Lee Crowl, Cracker Barrel; John Brown, Weis; Makayla Hanley, Walmart; Delores Splane, Starbucks, and the Carnuccios, Red Robin.

C Race winners; Carnuccios, Red Robin; Barbara Noll, A Piece of Cake; Guest Relations 1, Subway; Elaine Baksi, Cracker Barrel; Roxie Murdock, Olive Garden; Andy Heintzelman, Weis; Brenda Walburn, Brewsers; Dennis Wisloskie, Old Forge Brewery; Jeannie Reedy, Giant, and Karl Beagle, Old Forge.

Volunteers helping to prepare the race site and assist during the function were Mike Slotterback, James Cecco, Nate Leighow, Aaron Adams, Steve Wywadis and Dennis Paczkowski. In charge of the starting gate were Trevor Knoebel and sons, Ethan and Alex. Jan Diorio was in charge of the finish line, and Drew Kanaskie and Jesse James handled the sound.

Attending the meeting in addition to Knoebel, Linton, Murdock, Streck, Orner, Persing, were Janice Kotwica, Paul Metrocavage and Gerry Knapp.

MOUNT CARMEL - A borough man faces multiple charges after he allegedly assaulted his live-in girlfriend last month at their home, restrained her in a vehicle while traveling to Halifax and threatened to kill her, claiming he had no problem driving into a tree at 120 miles per hour.

Matt Lee Vallati, 33, of 522 W. Olive St., is in Dauphin County Prison after being charged by Patrolman Justin Stelma with misdemeanors of unlawful restraint, terroristic threats, simple assault and harassment relating to June 8 incidents.

Vallati's girlfriend, Shalea Hackenburg, told police Vallati initially ransacked their home, including smashing two jewelry boxes and throwing clothes all over the floor. Hackenburg said her boyfriend later "got in her face" and told her he wouldn't think twice about killing her.

After Hackenburg agreed to go for a ride with Vallati, the defendant walked out the front door. Hackenburg said she then locked the door and dialed 911 for police assistance, but her boyfriend kicked in the door. Hackenburg then ran upstairs to a bedroom with Vallati in pursuit. She said her boyfriend pushed in the bedroom door, punched her in the head and face and grabbed her phone before hanging it up.

Police said a 911 dispatcher then called Hackenburg back and kept her on the phone despite Vallati's attempt to get her to hang up.

After going downstairs, Hackenburg said her boyfriend pushed her through the front door and forced her into her Durango, which they traveled in through the borough. Hackenburg said Vallati made her hang up the phone while they were still riding in Mount Carmel and wouldn't leave her side.

She said the couple stopped for gas at a Turkey Hill Minit Market in Shamokin.

She said they then drove to Halifax. During their trip, Hackenburg said Vallati told her he had no problem running the Durango into the tree doing 120 miles per hour. Vallati also took Hackenburg's SIM card out of her phone while driving before placing it back in the phone just before arriving at his friend's home in Halifax.

As Vallati exited the Durango and walked up the driveway to his friend's home, Hackenburg said she jumped into the driver's seat and fled the scene. Just outside of Halifax, Hackenburg said a Mount Carmel police officer, who reportedly was informed about the alleged assault by a 911 dispatcher, called her.

Hackenburg then dropped off Vallati's belongings at his brother's home before going to Mount Carmel Police Station to report the incidents.

SLIPPERY ROCK - The following area students earned dean's list recognition at Slippery Rock University for the spring semester:

Miranda R. Jurgill, of 426 Poor House Road, Catawissa.

Karissa Cichon, of 122 High St., Mount Carmel.

SLIPPERY ROCK - Two area students graduated from Slippery Rock University during spring commencement exercises.

Juliana Smeltz, of 543 Smeltz Road, Dornsife, earned a Bachelor of Science in athletic training.

Molly McCabe, of 1262 Poplar St., Kulpmont, earned a Master of Education in special education, birth to eighth-grade.

SHAMOKIN - A resident plans to boost civic engagement with City Hall by creating a citizens advisory board, and a council member says it's a great idea.

Rich Fowler, who helped organized the Shamokin Crime Watch, drafted a proposed constitution for the creation of the Shamokin Citizens Commission. A member's task is to simply communicate with their neighbors and ultimately report concerns and ideas to city council.

Attendance at city council meetings is almost always low. At times, there is no one in the audience. Residents, though, have strong opinions about Shamokin and its current state. That's evident to Fowler through conversations he's had in person and online. However, for any number of reasons, these conversations by and large don't occur at council meetings.

"I'm not convinced it's as impactful as it could be," Fowler said of the citizens comment period granted at each council meeting. "I think with power in force with the whole community taking part in this, it's saying in one voice that we want to be heard."

Fowler sees a commission of nine: eight members elected by popular vote, one from each of Shamokin's wards, along with a liaison for city council. They would serve two-year terms. Eligible members would be adults who have lived in the city for at least one year. City employees and elected city officials are not eligible.

Keep politics at home

Nonpartisanship is a must, and politics should be kept out of the commission, Fowler said. It's function is to express citizen concerns and share ideas to improve neighborhoods and the city as a whole. Elections, Fowler said, would not be held on traditional dates for the primary and general votes, and the county's voter rolls wouldn't be used. Anyone with a photo ID or proof of citizenship is eligible to cast a vote.

Council members have had to make a lot of difficult decisions of late, Fowler said, alluding to the city's financial condition and its enrollment in the state's Act 47 fiscal recovery program. They definitely address citizens' concerns, but he sees ample room for improvement on both sides - raising awareness of an issue and properly addressing it. If a citizen believes an issue has been unaddressed or ignored, the commission would make a non-binding recommendation to council.

"They are doing a good job and they're working their way out of the hole," Fowler said of council members.

"But there are other things that need to be addressed other than getting out of the financial hole," he added, referring to ordinances restricting residency to convicted drug felons as well as inspections of rental properties. Both have been proposed but haven't resurfaced at council's regular monthly meetings.

Will there be interest?

As to public involvement, Fowler wonders if residents will be motivated enough to sacrifice time to seek a spot on the commission. He wants to find out.

"Maybe this can be a litmus test to see what's gonna happen in this town," he said. "If people don't want to stand up and speak out for their neighborhood, I think the city is really doomed."

Councilman Dave Kinder received a copy of the proposal. Copies were given to each council member at Wednesday's workshop. The topic was put on hold until the proposal could be reviewed by each member.

"I'm totally excited about that. I think it's an excellent idea, and I'm so happy (Fowler's) ready to spearhead that. It's only a plus for the town," Kinder said.

Council will have to do its own due diligence, he said, including checking to see if there are any potential legal liabilities.

Kinder's term, to which he was appointed in January 2014, ends in December. He said he'd like to get a spot on the commission himself.

Learn about bats today

BARNESVILLE - Susan Gallagher, chief naturalist at the Carbon County Environmental Education Center, will present "Bats: Fact and Fiction" at the Locust Lake State Park amphitheater at 6:30 p.m. today.

Gallagher will have a live bat to share facts and dispel myths surrounding our only flying mammal. She will discuss their unique anatomy and the habits and diet of our local bats. There will also be a discussion about White Nose Syndrome and how it is affecting the bat population.

After the program, she will use a bat detector to listen to and identify bats in the park.

Mattern reunion planned

HALIFAX - Descendants of Peter Mattern will hold their 21st annual reunion Sunday, July 26, at St. Peter's Church Grove Pavilion, Route 225, east of Halifax. Registration will begin at 11 a.m. followed by the meal at noon. A meeting will take place at 1 p.m. Those attending should bring a covered dish, and meat will be provided.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Army Col. Michael W. Richardson, a native of Shamokin, retired with honors after a 26-year military career during a prestigious ceremony May 29 in the Patriot Room at the Pentagon.

Richardson is a son of Betsy Richardson, of Shamokin, and the late Daniel "Dixie" Richardson.

Lt. Gen. William T. Grisoli, director of Army Staff, was the guest speaker and presenter at the ceremony.

Richardson is a 1989 graduate of the University of Scranton with degrees in business management and political science and was commissioned through ROTC as a distinguished military graduate. His military education includes infantry officer basic and advanced courses, Combined Arms Staff Services School and U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.

The colonel also holds a master's degree in military science from the Command and General Staff College.

His previous assignments include rifle and support leader, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry, 2nd Infantry Division; company executive officer and assistant battalion S-3, 2nd Battalion, 187th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division; assistant professor of military science at Bucknell University; commander, Company D, 3rd Battalion, 327th Infantry; commander, HHC, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division; threat doctrine writer, Combined Arms Center, Fort Leavenworth; 82nd Airborne Division G3 training officer; S-3, 3rd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry; brigade S-3, 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, infantry colonels assignment officer, Washington, D.C., and commander of 1st Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division.

His most recent assignment was regimental tactical officer for the 1st Regiment, United States Corps of Cadets, and executive officer to the superintendent of West Point in West Point, N.Y.

He is currently a senior strategist in the Office of the Army Chief of Staff.

Richardson has served four combat deployments in support of the War on Terrorism in Afghanistan and Iraq, all at or below brigade level.

His awards and badges include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Naval Achievement Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman's Badge, Expert Infantryman's Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Ranger Tab, Air Assault Badge and German Parachutist Badge.

The colonel and his wife of 20 years, Mary Beth, are the parents of three children, Abigail, 18, Hannah, 16, and Shawn, 10.

SHAMOKIN - A local motorcycle club will sponsor a poker run and benefit to help the wife of one of their members battle breast cancer.

The Christie's Run event, hosted by the Sinister Kings motorcycle club, will begin at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 11, at the Wayside Inn, Route 61, Weigh Scales, with a poker run winding through the area and ending at the Wilburton Fire Company No. 1 Picnic Grove.

A benefit will be held at the picnic grove, and all proceeds from the day will help Christie Feese, wife of member John Feese, who is battling breast cancer.

According to a member of the organization, Feese is in her last stage of chemotherapy, but cannot work during treatment.

There will be food and drinks available at the benefit in Wilburton, along with raffles, games and 50/50 drawings. There will be entertainment by DJ Howard Klinger and bands Hour of Judgement and We the Assembly. There will also be a vendor's area with items for sale.

Cost of the event is $20 per rider, which includes the benefit in Wilburton and one hand of poker during the run. Passengers can ride for $5 to attend the benefit or for an additional hand of poker. Those wishing to attend the benefit but not the run can pay $10 at the gate.

For more information, contact the Sinister Kings through their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sinisterkings.

SUNBURY - Northumberland County District Attorney Ann Targonski recently received a report of an elaborate scam in which suspects are communicating with potential victims using carefully crafted government documents, letterhead, personal identification cards and U.S. Treasury checks.

The government offices from which these fraudulent notices originate include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, General Accounting Office, Internal Revenue Services and U.S. Treasury.

The scammers claim the victim won a drawing from "Gold Rush International Senior Citizens Sweepstakes" and promise a payment of several million dollars via a check from the U.S. Treasury.

"The documents presented to my office look authentic," said Targonski. "The check, the letterhead and the signature which I viewed all look like they are the real deal."

The intended victim is asked to pay taxes in the amount of several thousand dollars before the check is released. The victim is also told an "IRS agent" will deliver the winnings or will wire the funds to an account of the victim's choosing, Targonski said. She warned citizens to keep their credit card, bank account numbers and personal information to themselves because scam artists often ask for them during an unsolicited sales pitch.

Residents are urged to report scams to their state or local police. Those subjected to or victimized by Internet crimes are strongly encouraged to report their experience at www.IC3.gov. The website collects nationwide data related to Internet crime and makes referrals to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for investigation.

Targonski said the victim who reported the recent scam to her office lost $2,000 as a result and is concerned it has happened to others.

"I am not sure how many more people were fooled by these realistic looking documents that come with envelopes and letters that appear to be from legitimate government agencies," she said. "Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always check with someone you trust - a family member, banker, police or your personal attorney - to help authenticate when people ask you for money in order to receive a windfall of money."

SHAMOKIN - The Shamokin-Coal Township Public Library has announced that memorials for the following period of April 15 to June 2 have been presented for the following persons:

In honor of

Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School Class of 2015 by Mr. and Mrs. Edward Madden.

Anniversary memorials

Kathryn and Robert Glavich by JoAnn, Barbara, Sharon and families.

Marlin Heitzman by Scott, Sharon, Jarrett and Tricia.

Todd "T.J." Latsha by mother Linda, sister Tracy and brother-in-law Bob.

Birthday memorials

William Anskis by Bruce, Cherie and Billy Anskis.

Ann Marie Haddock by Cherie, Bruce and Billy Anskis.

Sarah Zanella by sister Arlene Letcavage.

Father's Day memorial

Acacio Victoriano by Ralph.

Century Club

Francis P. Sobotor by Iron Workers Local 404.

Pamela Jaeger by WXPI Independent Radio and C. Brooke Gruenberg.

Doris Yost by Bednar, Schlesenger and Pryzie families.

Memorials

Irvin Adams by daughter Brandy and son-in-law Jeff, Northumberland County Sheriff's Department, Shamokin High School Class of 1964, Edward V. Twiggar II, Mary Worobel.

Mary Lou Bailey by Pat and Lum Bradley, Chico and Lori, Kyran and Fran Butkey, Michael and Shaunna Romanoski, John and Mary Stello and family, Mary and Jeff Thew and family.

Charles Bartol by Gene and Nancy Boughner, Viola Duncavage, Charlotte Laskoskie, Roseann and Al Varano.

Marilyn Deibler Bindus by Gene and Nancy Boughner, Anne and Tom Gates, Shamokin High School Class of 1957 classmates, Corrine Thomas, Frank and Pat Troxell.

Betty Davis Blair by Kyran and Fran Butkey.

Lynne Boehmer by Sheridan Staff.

Kathleen Brennan by Richard and Doris.

Mae Bressi by Agnes Adams, Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Pat and Jim Bressi, Jeanette Burba, Kathleen and Justin Kleskie and family, Audrey and Gerry Mroz, MVM third shift employees, Dave and Sandy Navrocki, Emily Parker, Jack and Janet Wachter.

George Brosious by JoAnn Shurock.

Robert Cooper by Shamokin High School Class of 1964.

Deceased members of Shamokin High School Class of 1964 by Jan Price.

John DelVecchio by Marion Grybowski, Mike and June Vitacco.

Albert G. Desousa by Kathy Gonsar.

Robert Dick by Richard and Doris.

Alice Dorkoski by sister Joan Brown and the Dorkoski family.

Robert D. Eckman by Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Doris, Tracey and Jim, Scott and Penny and Heather Bamford, Meg Bartol, Pat and Jim Bressi, Gloria and Rick Catino, Danville Collision and Destroyers soccer teams, Kathy Gonsar, Tom and Mary Harmon, Bob and Mary Ann Hartman, Sharon and Scott Heitzman, Margaret and Frank Konopka, Barbara and John Lamb, Bob and Caran Mattis, Don and Marion Myers, Don and Shannon Myers, Pete and Valerie Pachuski, John Paul, Kevin and Gina Pedro, Tony Rosini, Walter Sanders, Dave and LeeAnna Talisesky, Gloria Treese, Michael and Mary Witkowskie, Ron Zyla, Maureen and Steve Zarick.

Verna Fetterman by Ralph Victoriano.

Raymond Garancosky by Jeanette Burba and Charles Breining, Shamokin High School Class of 1964.

Martha Kaminskie Gayle by Coal Township High School Class of 1957.

Barry and Joe Getchey by Bobby, Susan and Maria Getchey, Tommy, Lisa and Joshua Pappas, Ruby, Karen, Tonya and Jim.

Lorraine Greager by the Tysons: Frances, Cindy, Diane and Joe.

Troy Madison Keolaokalani Lee Griffiths by Bob, Debbie, Bernie and Lori, Pat and Lum Bradley, Joe, John and Maria Bressi, Marian Edmondson, Cindy Heins and George Gratti, Dorothy Hawk, Bob and Caran Mattis, Naiad and Justin, Emily Parker, Mary and Jeff Thew and Family, Greg and Donna Wisloski and Roxy Tobias.

Dorothy Mae Grow by Joanne Dobeck, Mr. and Mrs. John Jones, Debra and Terry Kiefer, Margaret and Frank Konopka and family, Donna and Barry Lentz, Ann Nowaskie, Shamokin Area Retired Educators.

Lorraine Halcovich by Elaine Bressi, Card Club: Eleanor, Rae, Nancy, Carol, Anita and Linda, Carol and Lampert Haupt and family, Corrine Thomas.

Ronald "Gunner" Hauer by Barb and John Lamb.

Stephen Horoshak by Shamokin High School Class of 1944, Jack Startzel.

Kathleen A. Hull by Cindy and Matt Heins and Melissa and Mike Smith.

Shirley James by Marion Ramer, Cathy Stauffer and Jacquelin Witmer.

Connie Jones by Joan D'Avanti.

Luther Jones by Mary Anne and Joe Bixler, Tina and Mark Krieger, Jacque Robel.

Carl Keener by Danny and Sandee Ciesluk and family.

Tina Sutsko Kelly by Coal Township High School Class of 1964.

James Kessler by Carol Meisberger.

Joseph Klebon Sr. by Ann Fidler and family, Rita M. Ginitz and family, Bill and Shirley Golden and family, Mr. and Mrs. John E. Jones, Marlin and Judy Marose, Don and Marion Myers, Walter Sanders, Corrine Thomas and family, Janet, Janine and Joe Wahosky, Greg and Donna Wisloski.

Ada Knarr by Bruce Victoriano.

Joann Kreisher by Greg and Donna Wisloski and Roxy Tobias.

John "Jack" Lally by Toni Brown and family.

Elizabeth "Betty" Lauer by Esther Ardan, Shamokin-Coal Township Senior Center, Wes, Teresa and Tatum Tillett.

Dolores Joyce Leonowicz by Phyllis Duzick, Carol Meisberger, Sister Connie, the families of: Corrine, Charlene and Jeff, Jack and Jonah Tamkus.

Kenneth Long by Rich and Suzie Barrett.

James Maurer by Rosie Fullmer.

Beverly Ostroski by James and Nancy Williams and family.

Walter Pasternak by Joe and Eleanor Bluge.

M. Lee Paul by Shamokin High School Class of 1964.

Dorothy Perles by Nancy McBride.

Margaret "Peggy" Rovito by Tom and Mary Harmon.

Loretta Sabotchick by Bill and Shirley Golden and family, Donna Gotlob Beauty Salon.

James Sacona Jr. by Tommy, Lisa and Joshua Pappas.

Ronald "Zeke" Schoch by Audrey Schoch and family, Frank and Pat Troxell.

Betty Seger by Greg and Donna Wisloski.

Esther Shoop by Linda Latsha and family, Don and Marion Myers, Gary, Kathy and Nathan Rothermel, Carolyn Weaver.

Mary Siddle by Emily Anderson, the Hopta family.

Shirley Smith by Pat and Jim Bressi.

Francis "Pete" Sobotor by JoAnn Shurock, Mary and Jeff Thew and family, Patricia Crone Zalinski.

Marian Spear by Shepherds Table kitchen.

Mary Teats by Jacqueline Witmer and Marilyn Ramer.

Jarrod Tehansky by Pat and Jim Bressi, Tony and Heather Ferrara, William and Shirley Golden.

Della Victoriano by Bruce Victoriano.

Marna M. Victoriano by Bruce Victoriano.

Della Victoriano by Ralph Victoriano.

Marna Victoriano by Ralph Victoriano.

Molly Victoriano by Ralph Victoriano.

Doris Yost by Rick, Sue, Lisa and Bubba Burns, Tommy, Lisa and Joshua Pappas, Roxann Seroski and William Weaver.

Mary E. Young by Ronald Kuhns.

Marjorie Zimmerman by Shamokin High School Class of 1964.

Kathleen Zyla by Lori Novack and Chico.

Contributions to the memorial fund

Mary Lou Bailey by Ethan and Jessica.

Mary C. Schenewenk Campbell by Bob and Suzanne Starke.

Robert Eckman by Bob and Suzanne Starke.

Barry and Joseph Getchey by Kathy and Abby James.

Carolyn Giacomini by Marian Edmondson, Bob and Suzanne Starke.

Troy Madison Keolaokalani Lee Griffiths by Kathy and Abby James.

Lorraine Halcovich by Jeanette and Charlie Verano.

Ronnie Huler by Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Joseph J. Karn by Kathy and Sheyna.

Joseph Klebon Sr. by Ann Louise Diminick, Bob and Suzanne Starke.

Joann Kreisher by Kathy and Abby James.

Lois Madden by Joannie and Don Yuricich.

Brian Mariano by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Albert.

Walter Pasternak by Theresa Egick and family.

Sandra Politza by Kathy and Abby James.

Loretta Sabotchick by Loretta Brown.

Shirley Smith by Melanie Wengrenovich.

Jarrod Tehansky by Gig and Diane Thomas and family.

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

Assumption BVM

Assumption B.V.M. Ukrainian Catholic Church, Paxton Street, Centralia.

Pastor - The Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko.

Confessions - Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Divine Liturgy - Sunday, 11 a.m.

Augusta Baptist

Augusta Baptist Church, 1371 Boyles Run Road, Sunbury.

Pastor - Robert S. Commerford.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:15 a.m.

Evening service - 6:30 p.m.

Activities - Sunday, youth group, 6 p.m., kids club, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Bible study and prayer meeting, 6:30 p.m.; fourth Thursday of the month, L.I.F.E. for seniors age 55 and up, noon.

Augustaville Wesleyan

Augustaville Wesleyan Church, 2556 State Route 890, Paxinos.

Pastor - Greg Clendaniel.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

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

Bethany Bible

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

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:45 a.m.

Evening service in fellowship hall - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, children and youth programs and adult prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m.

Bethany EC

Bethany EC Church, 1238 Market St., Ashland.

Interim pastor - Marlin Lafferty.

Sunday school - 9:15 a.m. (adults and children).

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Activities - Wednesday, weekly Bible study, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; free clothing closet, every first and third Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to noon.

Bethel Union

Bethel Union Chapel, West Cameron Township.

Pastor - Dave Butler.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m. (all ages).

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m.

Special music - Audrey Ditty.

Nursery - 10:30 a.m.

Junior church - 10:30 a.m.

No evening service.

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

Calvary Bible

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

Pastor - Ferd Madara.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:35 a.m.

Message by Pastor Madara.

Special music - Praise team.

Communion.

Activities - No evening service.

Church of the Nazarene

Church of the Nazarene, Route 901, Lavelle.

Pastor - Jeremy Smallwood.

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

Worship service - 10:45 a.m.

Clark's Grove UMC

Clark's Grove United Methodist Church, Irish Valley Road, Paxinos. Handicapped accessible.

Pastor - Billy Frick.

Sunday school for all ages - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:10 a.m.

Youth service - 6:30 p.m.

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

­Divine Redeemer

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

Pastor - The Rev. Martin O. Moran III.

Weekday Masses - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 7:30 a.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.

Weekend Masses - Saturday, 4 p.m. (Sunday obligation); Sunday, 8 and 10:30 a.m.

Holy day Masses - 6 p.m., eve of holy days. 7 a.m. and 6 p.m., holy day.

Confessions - Saturday, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.; after morning novena Wednesday.

Novenas - Monday, Miraculous Medal novena after morning Mass; Wednesday, St. Jude Thaddeus novena after morning Mass; Saturday, St. Francis novena after morning Mass.

Elysburg Alliance

Elysburg Alliance Church, 113 W. Alpha Ave., Elysburg.

Pastor - The Rev. Andrew Knisely.

Service - 8 and 10:30 a.m., with a message from Pastor Knisely.

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

Activities - Sunday, AWANA for children age 4 to fifth grade, 6 to 7:30 p.m., junior high youth for grades 6 to 8, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m.; Wednesday, prayer ministry, 7 to 8 p.m., youth group for grades 9 to 12, 7 to 8 p.m.

Elysburg Presbyterian

Elysburg Presbyterian Church, 320 W. Valley Ave. (Route 487), Elysburg.

Pastor - Matthew Young.

Sunday school for all ages - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Message - "Wait." Summer series on the book of Acts.

Scripture - Acts 1:1-11.

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

Activities - Sunday, Lifetree Cafe, 7 p.m.; Monday, yard sale drop off, noon to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, Bible study at McDonald's, 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., yard sale drop off, noon to 5 p.m., Daniel Plan meeting, 1 p.m.; Wednesday, yard sale drop off, noon to 5 p.m.; Thursday, yard sale drop off, noon to 5 p.m., shepherding meeting, 5 p.m.; Friday, Breakfast with Jesus Bible study, 8:30 a.m.; July 11, yard sale, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with proceeds benefitting the deacon's fund.; July 26, church family picnic, noon to 4 p.m.

Elysburg UMC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Michelle Beissel.

Morning worship - 8:30 a.m. Children's Sunday school during worship.

Participants - Chuck Yoder, head usher; Dave and Joyce Kichman, greeters; Joshua Yoder, acolyte; Pam Yeager, scripture reader; Sue Manney and Arlene Gutekkunst, shepherding; Olivia Bodner, organist.

Activities - Wednesday, prayer circle; Thursday, Elysburg food pantry, 10 a.m. to noon.

Emmanuel UMC

Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 328 Center St., Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Betty Ford.

Coffee fellowship - 8 to 9 a.m.

Worship - 9:30 a.m., with children's Sunday school.

Activities - Tuesday and Thursday, exercise class, 6:30 p.m.; third Wednesday of month, cookie ministry, 5 p.m.; second Saturday of the month, health screening, 8 to 10 a.m.; fourth Sunday of the month, movie night, 5 p.m.

Faith Bible

Faith Bible Church, Burnside.

Pastor - Perry Ross.

Pianist - Robert Witmer III.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Evening service - 7 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Kids Club, Bible study and prayer, 7 p.m.

Faith Community Church

Pastor - Dale Hill, 570-751-5101.

Sunday worship - 10:30 a.m.

First Baptist, Shamokin

First Baptist Church, 10 E. Lincoln St., Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Samuel Derr.

Church school - 9:45 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:45 a.m.

Choir organist - Judith Pensyl.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Organist - Judith Pensyl.

Activities - Wednesday, choir rehearsal, 1 p.m., prayer, praise and testimony and Bible study, 7 p.m.

First Baptist, Trevorton

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

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:40 a.m.

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

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

First Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church, Sunbury and Liberty streets, Shamokin.

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Guest speaker - The Rev. Douglas Orbaker

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

First UMC, Kulpmont

First United Methodist Church, Ninth Street, Kulpmont.

Pastor - Beverly Petrovich.

Worship - 9:30 a.m., with children's Sunday school.

Activities - Second Saturday of the month, Angels Table luncheon, 11 a.m. All are welcome.

First UMC, Mount Carmel

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

Pastor - The Rev. Susan J. Roehs.

Worship service - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday school - 10:30 a.m.

Sermon - "Who Do You Answer To?"

Participants - Sharon Styer, organist; Jim Weissinger, head usher; Bret Getty, sound technician; Barb Malick, liturgist; Rachel Maurer, acolyte; Jim and Sherry, counting team; Pastor Susan, children's time.

Activities - Thursday, Overeaters Anonymous, 1 p.m.; Friday, Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

First UMC, Shamokin

First United Methodist Church, Sunbury Street, Shamokin.

Pastor - Zachary Hopple.

Adult and children's Sunday school - 9:15 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Carol Ellis, liturgist; Red and Chris Griffith, greeters.

Activities - Monday, Bible study in the parlor, 6 p.m. Ad Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, July 20.

God's Missionary

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

Pastor - The Rev. Howard R. McKenzie.

Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

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

Evening service - 6 p.m.

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

Good News Bible

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

Sunday worship - 3 p.m.

Guest speaker - Pastor Keith McCarthy on "The Heavenly-Minded Father." Scriptural focus is on Malachi 4:6.

Participants - Shirley Brass, prayer chain coordinator; Bob Keener, church ministry coordinator; Jill Keener, music coordinator; Angie Ratzlaff, coordinator of Blessings to You.

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

Blessings to You, a free clothing ministry, distributes free clothing from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursdays and noon to 3 p.m. Friday on the second and fourth weeks of the month.; July 27 to 31, vacation Bible school with a closing program and church picnic at 3 p.m. Aug. 2.

Good Shepherd

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 35 N. Ninth St., Ashland.

Pastor - The Rev. Dana Heckman-Beil.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Grace Chapel

Grace Chapel, 126 Airport Road, Shamokin.

Pastor - Alan Langelli.

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

Sunday morning worship - 10:30 a.m.

Nursery child care is provided for all Sunday services.

Evening worship - 6:30 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, ladies' fellowship; Thursday, men's prayer breakfast; July 12, outdoor service/hot dog roast; July 14, business meeting; July 15, congregation meeting; July 18, shepherd's meeting; July 26, guest speaker Jozef Gabor; every Thursday, ladies' Bible study.

Grace Evangelical

Grace Evangelical Independent Church, Locustdale.

Pastor - The Rev. Rose Marquardt.

Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 11 a.m.

Grace Lutheran, Shamokin

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

Pastor - The Rev. David M. Byerly.

Service of the word and sacrament - 10:15 a.m. Harry Deitz, authorized lay worship leader of the Upper Susquehanna Synod, will preach and preside.

No adult Sunday school for the summer.

Participants - Bruce Romanic, worship assistant; Tyler Keisear, acolyte/crucifer; Bob and Kathy Linn, communion bearers; Pam Blusius, Judith Shady and Cincy Williams, altar care; Mr. and Mrs. William Hoffa, greeters; Ron Weller, driver; Jeffrey Clutcher, William Hoffa, James Karnes,Richard Kovach, James Shingara, John Strausser and Ron Weller, ushers; Walter Boyer, organist, Charlene Pell, choir director and cantor.

Grace Lutheran, Mount Carmel

Grace Lutheran Church, 146 W. Avenue, Mount Carmel.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Alfred Bashore.

Sixth Sunday after Pentecost.

Participants - Linda Rubendall, organist; Diann Marie Repko, lector, William Brass, president; Charles Barnes, secretary and sexton.

Services will be at Grace Lutheran Church in the social room downstairs. It is Food Pantry Sunday.

Grace UCC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Joan A. Brown.

Morning worship - 9 a.m.

Participants - Bryan Lapinski, organist; Logan Wills, acolyte; Beverly Cooper and Dennis Stone, ushers.

Activities - July 12, picnic at Ponduce, 10:30 a.m.; Aug. 9, picnic at Green's Farm.

Harvest Worship

Harvest Worship Ministries, 2079 Upper Road, West Cameron Township, 570-850-4280, harvestworshipministries.com.

Pastor - Sandy Wary.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Hidden Valley

Hidden Valley Community Church, 162 Hidden Valley Lane, Mifflinburg. A non-denominational Bible church.

Pastor - Gary L. Owens.

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

Himmel's Church

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

Pastor - Jane H. Compton.

Worship service - 9 a.m., with communion the first Sunday of every month.

Activities - Aug. 9, outdoor service in the picnic grove with guest speaker Kay Wagner, 9 a.m.; Aug. 23, outdoor service in the picnic grove with the group Re-Creation, 10 a.m. and covered dish lunch to follow: Sept. 14, Rally Day service and "God's Work, Our Hands" Day of Service.

Holy Angels

Holy Angels Church, 855 Scott St., Kulpmont.

Pastor - The Rev. Andrew Stahmer.

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

Confessions - Saturday, 4 to 5 p.m.

Weekday Masses - Monday, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m.; Tuesday, bingo in the Holy Angels activity center, doors open at 4:30 p.m., and games begin at 6 p.m.

Holy Trinity

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

Clergy - The Rev. Sarah L. Weedon.

Sunday worship - 10 a.m. with Holy Eucharist. Children's Sunday school during worship. Coffee hour following the service to welcome the new rector.

Participants - Susan Zaner, greeter; Frank Zaretski, intercessor; Esther Bashore, lector; Ron and Mary Slovick, oblations; Oliver Fesniak and Frank Zaretski, ushers; Joshua Bashore, Hannah Bashore and Kirstin Kinnaman, altar servers; Grethel Vinup, organist.

Activities - Wednesday, Holy Eucharist and healing, 10 a.m.

Hope Community

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

Pastor - Dan Renno.

Christian education for all ages - 9 a.m.

Fellowship time - 9:45 a.m.

Praise and worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Living Power

Living Power Ministries, 45 E. Fourth St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor/teacher - Walt Kriskie.

Pre-service prayer - 10 a.m.

Praise and worship - 10:30 a.m., followed by celebration service.

Sunday evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, mid-week Bible study, 7 p.m., refreshments served.

Miller's Crossroads

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

Pastor - Michelle Beissel.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Participants - Betsy Bradigan, organist.

Ministry of the Water and Spirit

Ministry of the Water and Spirit Church, 915 High Road, Helfenstein.

Pastor - James Bowers.

Sunday service - 10 a.m.

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

Mother Cabrini

Mother Cabrini Church, North Shamokin Street, Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Martin Kobos.

Parochial vicar - The Rev. Adam Ziolkowski.

Sunday Masses - Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday, 7, 9 and 11 a.m.

Confessions - Daily, 7:30 to 7:50 a.m.; Saturday, 3 to 3:45 p.m.

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Activities - Monday, bingo cancelled. will resume July 13; Tuesday and Wednesday, communion calls to the scheduled parish homebound. Calls will be made by a eucharist minister.

Mountainside

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

Pastor - The Rev. Richard H. Earl.

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

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

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

Youth night - 5 p.m. every other Sunday.

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

Monthly activities - First Sunday, communion and children's sermon, during 10:30 a.m. service; second Tuesday, Women of Purpose meeting, 7 p.m.

Mount Zion

Mount Zion Welsh Congregational United Church of Christ, Grant and Church streets, Shamokin.

Pastor - Gerald Lloyd Jr.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Scripture - Psalm 46; Mark 6: 1-13.

Sermon - "Sent with Power."

Organist - Philip Maue.

Sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated the first Sunday of every month.

New Life Church

New Life Church of God, 129 W. Second St., Mount Carmel.

Interim pastor - The Rev. John D. Ashbaugh.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship church - 10:30 a.m. Junior church and nursery available. Handicapped accessible, wheelchair available.

Activities - Prayer room open mornings; prayer, fellowship and coffee, Saturdays, 9 a.m.; Sunday, evening praise and worship service, 7 p.m.

Oak Grove UMC

Oak Grove United Methodist Church, Marley Road, Overlook.

Pastor - The Rev. Zachary Hopple.

Worship - 9 a.m.

Sunday school for all ages - 10:35 a.m.

Activities - Monday, Bible study, 6 p.m., First United Methodist Church; First and third Fridays, Open Arms outreach, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Our Lady of Hope

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

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

Daily Masses - Monday through Friday, 7 a.m., Holy Spirit Chapel.

Weekend Masses - Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday, 7 and 11 a.m.

Holy day of obligation Mass - 5:30 p.m. Vigil Mass and 7 a.m. morning of the holy day.

Sacrament of reconciliation - Saturday, 3 to 3:45 p.m.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel

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

Pastor - The Rev. Francis J. Karwacki.

Deacon - The Rev. Mr. Martin McCarthy.

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

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

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

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

Peifer's Evangelical

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

Pastor - Bradley D. Hatter.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary

Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Church, 599 W.

Center St., Elysburg.

Pastor - The Rev. Joseph Scanlin.

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

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

Restoration Ministries

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

Pastor - Paul K. Eby.

Pre-service prayer - 9 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

St. John Lutheran

St. John Lutheran, 29 High Road Danville.

Pastor - Kris Brown.

Sunday school - 9:15 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

St. John's UCC

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

Lay leader - David L. Spotts.

Speaker - The Rev. Lynn Wetzel.

Coffee hour and fellowship time - 9:15 a.m., parlor.

Sunday school will resume on Sept. 13.

Blended worship service - 10:30 a.m., sanctuary. The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost.

Participants - Sherry Romanoskie, children's message; Geof Levan, guitarist/soloist; soloist Jerry Sherman, ministry of music; Margaret Morris, organist/choir director; David L. Spotts, lay reader; Brianna Bendas, acolyte.

Activities - Saturday, prayer group in the parlor, 10:30 a.m.; July 12 to 16, "G-Force! vacation Bible school," 6 to 8 p.m.

St. John's UMC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Karyn Fisher.

Worship - 9 a.m.

Children's church and nursery - 9:20 a.m.

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

Remember to bring in your random everyday objects for the "Brown Paper Bag" summer sermon series.

Activities - Wednesday, Northumberland County Early Intervention playgroup, 10 to 11:30 a.m., mid-week prayer and Bible study, 1 Peter 3-4, 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, Narcotics Anonymous meeting, 7 p.m.; Friday, Narcotics Anonymous meeting, 8 p.m.; July 19, guest speaker Rachel Nicholson will share her experiences as a teaching missionary in Germany; July 26 to 31, vacation Bible school, "SonSpark Labs," 6 to 8 p.m.

St. Joseph's Church

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

Pastor - The Rev. John W. Bambrick.

Sister Elizabeth Kealy, IHM, director of religious education.

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

Rosary prayed before all Masses.

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

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

St. Mark Lutheran

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

Worship leader - Pastor Kris Brown.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

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

St. Matthew Lutheran

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

Interim pastor - The Rev. Alfred Bashore.

The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, and Food Pantry Sunday.

Services for the month of July will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in the social room downstairs.

St. Michael Orthodox

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

Pastor - The Rev. Theophan Marckey.

Divine Liturgy - 9 a.m.

St. Patrick

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

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

Weekend Mass - Sunday, 9 a.m.

Weekday Mass - 8 a.m. Wednesday.

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

St. Paul Lutheran

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

Pastor - The Rev. David M. Byerly.

Service of Word and Sacrament - 8:15 a.m. Harry Deitz, Authorized Lay Worship Leader for the Upper Susquehanna Synod, will preach and preside.

Participants - Stephanie Boyer, lector; Stephania Boyer and Cindy Henninger, communion assistants; Jack Tobias, acolyte/crucifer; Walter Boyer, organist and choir director.

St. Paul's Reformed

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

Pastor - Jerry Schlegel.

Worship time - 9 a.m.

Scriptures - 1 Timothy 2:1-8.

Message - "God Bless the USA."

Participants - Cliff Artman, organist; Virginia McWilliams and Esther Whary.

St. Pauline Visintainer

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

"Chapel of the Crucified."

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

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

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

St. Peter's Lutheran

St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Aristes.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Alfred Bashore.

Service and Sacrament of Holy Communion - 9 a.m.

Participants - Linda Rubendall, organist; Carol Buffington, choir director, and Carol Snyder, lector.

SS Peter and Paul

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

Pastor - The Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko.

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

Weekday Divine Liturgies - 8 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Weekend Divine Liturgies - 4 p.m. Saturday and 9:15 a.m. Sunday.

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

St. Peter's UCC

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

Pastor - Paul T. Gurba.

Morning worship - 8:30 a.m.

Sermon - "Examining the Desires of Our Hearts."

Verse - Psalms 37:4: "Deligh thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

St. Stephen's

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

Clergy - The Rev. Frederic Stevenson.

Service - 8:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist.

Handicapped accessible.

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

Salem UCC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Jean Eckrod.

Morning worship - 10 a.m. Sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated at the 10 a.m. service.

Participants - Eric Zalar, acolyte; Grace Stank, lay leader; Julie Updegrove and JudyLynn Weaver, beginners class; Barbara Skrivanek, junior class; Judie Zabawsky, organist; Lori and Earl Foura, Communion assistants; Kate and Lindsey Glosek, gifts of the people; Helen Martin and Suzzette Steinhart, greeters; Lori and Earl Foura, Grace Stank and Gerry Woland, ushers; Frank Garrigan, lighting/sound.

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

Activities - Monday, making pigeons and taco meat, starting at 8 a.m.; Wednesday, Senior Day traveling to Pier 87 in Williamsport, leaving the church at 10:30 a.m.

Salvation Army

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

Commanding officer - Maj. Tina Streck.

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

Sunday school - 10:45 a.m.

Seibert Evangelical

Seibert Evangelical Congregational Church, Route 147, Herndon.

Pastor - Bradley D. Hatter.

Worship - 9 a.m.

Sunday school - 10:15 a.m.

Seventh Street

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

Pastor - The Rev. David Wildoner.

Sunday school - 10 a.m.

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

Message - "Temptations Americans Face."

Participants - Kathy Albright, station steward; Joseph Rodman, head usher; Benjamin Brudnicki, Alaina Glowatski and Jordon McDowell; Bryan Lapinski, organist; Kathy Jeremiah and Audrey Schoch, greeters for June; Dr. Richard Albright, servant of the month; Sheila Wildoner, children's message; Kathy Albright, Children's Church teacher; Sandy Linton, nursery worker.

A nursery is available for children up to age 5. Children's church is available for children over 5 with a focus on lessons from the Bible.

Manna for the Many for July is Jell-0, puddings and cake mixes.

Activities - Monday, no trustee board meeting, 7 p.m.; July 15, church picnic at Knoebels Pavilion H.

Shamokin Alliance

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

Pastor - Samuel Bellavia.

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

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

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

Evening service - 7 p.m.

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

Shamokin Seventh Day Adventist

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

Pastor - John Peters.

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

Saturday worship - 11 a.m.

Tuesday, Bible studies, 5 p.m.

Stonington Baptist

Stonington Baptist Church, Hosta Road, Paxinos.

Pastor - The Rev. J. Douglas Hallman.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Morning worship - 10 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

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

Trevorton UMC

Trevorton United Methodist Church, Shamokin Street, Trevorton,

Pastor - The Rev. Al Schell Jr.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:45 a.m.

Nancy Korenkiewicz, pianist, organist and choir director.

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

Trinity Evangelical

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

Pastor - The Rev. Brian C. Betsworth.

Worship service - 10:45 a.m. at Antioch Place.

Activities - Wednesday, Recovery in Christ, a new Bible-based 12-step support group, 5:30 p.m., prayer and Bible study at Antioch Place, 7 p.m.

Trinity Lutheran

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

Pastor - The Rev. David Hauck.

Worship service - 10 a.m.

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

True Grace

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

Pastor/teacher - Michael Marcheskie.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

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

United Presbyterian

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

Minister - The Rev. Ted Plott

Worship service - 11 a.m. with Communion.

Message - "Ours to Reason Why?"

Scripture - Acts 5:17-32.

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

Victory Bible Church

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

Pastor - Kevin Kline.

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

Evening worship - 7 p.m.

Wilburton UMC

Wilburton United Methodist Church, Wilburton.

Pastor - Rose M. Marquardt.

Worship service - 8:45 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Zion UMC

Zion United Methodist Church, Aristes.

Pastor - The Rev. Rose M. Marquardt.

Worship service - 9:50 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Zion Methodist

Zion United Methodist Church, Trevorton Road, Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Betty Ford.

Sunday school - 10:30 a.m.

Worship - 11 a.m.

Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" is often judged an all-time great love story. But if Jo Ann and I had a vote, it would go to Ron and Elinor Moyer.

When the former Elinor Hirsch and Ronald Moyer met as freshmen at Mount Carmel Catholic High School, they were relatively close in age to the title characters in Shakespeare's play. Elinor was 14, slightly older than Juliet, while 14-year-old Ron was a few years younger than Romeo. That's where the similarities end.

It might not have been love at first sight, but Ron and Elinor only had eyes for each other since that first meeting nearly 67 years ago. They couple marked their golden wedding anniversary in 2005 and would have celebrated their 60th Aug. 13.

Sadly, that was not to be. Ron passed away last week, which demonstrates that in the case of a devoted husband, father and grandfather, 80 years are not nearly enough.

He left behind a priceless inheritance for his four daughters, their spouses and seven grandchildren. Ron did not have to lecture about the value of hard work. He worked for the same company for 50 years and then took a part-time job after his retirement.

As important as the work ethic is, it is not nearly as valuable of a legacy as the way Ron and Elinor lived throughout their long marriage. Faith in God has been their top priority. The sorrows of life have been eased and the joys enhanced living as they believed.

Family was a close second. Whatever was going on with a child or grandchild was a family occasion, whether it was receiving a sacrament, playing sports, or being prom royalty.

St. Paul wrote that the essentials of life are faith, hope and love, and love is the greatest of the three. As the grieving slowly gives way to priceless memories, Elinor and her family will realize that their separation from Ron is only temporary.

As novelist Jan Karon put it, "Until heaven; then forever." There, the love story of Ron and Elinor will never end.

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God-given love is a circle that does not end.

This month marks the 20th anniversary of CVIA promoting and providing volunteer and non-profit information to the public. In the past two decades, we've grown by leaps and bounds. New programs were developed and old programs were tweaked and expanded.

Since our humble beginnings, we've added a user-friendly website database where volunteers can find their perfect assignment, a quarterly newsletter, and we're now on Facebook. Of course, you can always reach us by phone or email for a personal touch.

Since 1996, the program has promoted almost 1,400 different volunteer opportunities, almost all on multiple occasions, published 2,025 volunteer columns in three local newspapers, advertised more nonprofit events and news announcements than we can count, coordinated the annual Make A Difference Day, developed a community resource program, hosted food donations, written topic-related articles for local magazines, guest lectured for various non-profits and government entities, sat on agency boards, contracted to provide volunteer marketing and PR, had a presence at fairs and expos, appeared on various radio and television talk shows, and sponsored informational seminars for the public, to name a few.

Through the years, we've been honored with several awards. We were the recipient of the Pocono Northeast Community Awards Human Services Honorable Mention Award in 1998, the RSVP Station of the Year Award in 1999, the Points of Life Volunteer Center Communications Excellence Award in 1999, the Make A Difference Day Outstanding State Project in 1999, the Make A Difference day Outstanding National Project in 2000, the National Association of Counties Acts of Caring Award in 2001, the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce Organization of the Year Award in 2007, the Ted G. Daniels Community Development Runner UP Award in 2012. Additionally, CVIA was the recipient of several county proclamations and certificates of special recognition from various local legislators.

In addition, this director won the National Association of Volunteer Programs in Local Government Outstanding New Volunteer Administrator Award in 2011, and the Schuylkill County Conservation District Conservation Volunteer of the Year Award (for media promotion) in 2012.

Looking toward the future, we'll continue to grow and adapt with changing community needs and social climates.

It has been an honor to work with the countless number of dedicated volunteers and hundreds of organizations for the past two decades. We look forward to the future. We're here to help you find your ideal volunteer opportunity. Contact us.

This October will also mark the 20th year that Schuylkill County has been participating in Make A Difference Day, the largest national day of giving. If you or your group would like to participate in this Schuylkill County signature event, contact this office for project ideas, registration forms, or simply for cheerleading. MADDay will be featured in this column in more detail later in the summer.

The Tamaqua Chamber of Commerce announces that its summer concert series is in full swing - pun intended. All shows will take place at the railroad station, weather permitting. Oldies band, It Takes Two, will perform Thursday and blues band, BC Combo, is slated for July 23. Reserve your table on the platform or bring your lawn chair or blanket for a relaxing evening of free musical entertainment.

Schuylkill on the Move invites you to join them for their Mystical Red Hole Ramble at 1 p.m. July 12. Discover the historic site from the 1750's French and Indian War that was an American Indian encampment. Meet at the parking lot of the Schuylkill County Ag Center on the Gordon-Nagle Trail to carpool to the site. The 3- to 4-mile hike is of moderate difficulty. Call 570-622-4124 for details.

Sweet Arrow Lake will be the site of a water adventure at 10 a.m. Saturday. Porcupine Pat will lead you in search of mayflies, crayfish, water pennies and more critters that call the Upper Little Swatara Creek home. The event is recommended for ages 6 and above, and participants are asked to meet at the Waterfall Road parking lot. Call 570-345-8952 for info.

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.

WINCHESTER, Va. - Lauryn Nicole Leach, a 2012 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School, has achieved academic honors at Shenandoah University by making the dean's list for the 2015 spring semester. Leach will be a senior at Shenandoah with a double major in kinesiology/physical therapy and public health with a minor in biology. She is a distinguished member of the Phi Epsilon Kappa Chapter, a national professional fraternity, for those studying kinesiology. The Phi Epsilon Kappa Chapter was founded as an honor fraternity and requires academic excellence as demonstrated by her cumulative grade-point average. She will be serving as secretary of the chapter for the 2015-16 fall and spring semesters.

Leach also serves as a member of the Alpha Lamda Delta National Honor Society at Shenandoah. She has been chosen to serve as head resident assistant for the 2015-16 academic year and will work with the director of residential life to live out the mission, vision and core values of the university.

Leach is employed by the university's institutional computer department and is doing a summer internship at Phoenix Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in Danville under the supervision of physical therapist John Foster.

She is a daughter of John and Linda Leach, of Paxinos, and granddaughter of Thomas and Joann Mudry, of Kulpmont, and John and Susan Leach, of Shamokin.

We have evolved into a nation of spenders, far beyond the basic essentials of food, clothing and shelter. Advertising is huge business which taunts us with a desire to acquire stuff, and lots of it. Unfortunately, a subculture of compulsive shoppers has arisen. The shelf life of enjoyment obtained from excessive shopping is short-lived and falls in the category of addiction. The best bang for our buck seems to be in spending our hard-earned cash on enjoyable activities with others that provide lasting memories.

A significant component of conspicuous sonsumption is the "Look at Me" factor. This can be applied to super-expensive cars, boats, clothes, diamonds and just about any worldly goods that will gain the attention and perhaps the admiration of others. For those who are into super-showy, the 88th edition of the Neiman Marcus features outrageously expensive and fantastic items. For sale is an ATV vehicle which operates on land and sea; price tag. $50,000. How about a made-to-order slot car racetrack for $300,000. Watches are a hot item with the Piaget Catalog, featuring the Limelight Gala watch for $32,000. As far as the purchase of super-expensive watches, move over ladies. A lot of men are into this status symbol.

A wonderful lazy, rainy or snowy evening's activity is the perusal of expensive catalogs. This vicarious entertainment can be enjoyed online, but the best way is to have the paper variety. One of my favorite is the Hammacher Schlemmer Catalog which proudly promotes itself as "America's Longest Running Catalog - Offering the Best, the Only and the Unexpected for 167 Years." One can purchase an eight-foot-tall bright yellow inflatable duckie. The description is "bouncing buoyancy that compels wanton water play. The duckie accepts all playmates with (its) voluminous pupiled eyes." It's yours for only $229.95 plus a hefty shipping fee. Move on and you will see a photo of the longest backyard water slide, designed to bring aquatic joy to children and adults alike. The price is $2,800. One of my favorite items is the transparent canoe, with transparent paddles, which has comfortable seating for two. The photo depicts two beautiful people invisibly skimming along blue waters. Hard to resist at $2,500 plus $350 shipping.

Take note while reviewing this catalog of all the positive power words that are used and frequently repeated. Almost on every page, "The Best" will be attached to a product. Other power words used are: the Only, the Perfect, the Superior, the Genuine, the Award Winning, the Authentic and more. It's important to be aware how words, positive and negative, both written and spoken, can significantly impact and influence our emotions and beliefs.

There are less expensive items for the less affluent, items like the Fish Catching RC Boat which is a remote-controlled 17½-inch boat, with pre-rigged tackle. This is for the more relaxed fisherman who wishes to sit leisurely on the shore while the RC vessel trolls for the fish. The ad states that the boat can catch up to a five-pound fish. It doesn't mention what happens if a larger fish is caught. Not bad for $69.98.

For those fans of "Star Wars," there is the Darth Vader toaster. This appliance is made in the scary likeness of the head of that villain, complete with flashing red eyes. Innocent pieces of toast are transformed into "sinister tokens of evil" with "Star Wars" imprinted on each slice. Begin the day with a Galactic Empire breakfast! The price tag is a mere $49.95. I must admit, in a moment of weakness, I did buy one for my son's birthday. He loved it!

(Dr. Donna Pinter is the founder and director of Psychological Services, of Bloomsburg, Danville and Sunbury. "Slice of Life" appears on this page the first Sunday of every month.)

BLOOMSBURG - Abby E. Kulenguskey graduated cum laude from Bloomsburg University May 9 with a degree in early childhood education with a minor in the hearing impaired.

While at Bloomsburg, Kulenguskey participated in the BU Husky Marching Band and Maroon and Gold Concert Band, in which she played flute. She is a member of Tau Beta Sigma national music sorority, serving as chapter president. She is a member of the Trio Upward Bound Alumni Association, in which she served in a variety of capacities.

She is a daughter of Deb Kulenguskey, Samuel Dascani and Todd Kulenguskey. She is a granddaughter of Linda and Bernie Romanoski and the late Pat and Clement Kulenguskey, and a great-granddaughter of Ruth Romanoski and the late Bernie Romanoski Sr.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The honor roll for the fourth marking period has been announced for Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School.

Distinguished honors

Seniors - Jessica Delong, Dakota Maneval and Grace Rompolski.

Juniors - Cage Crissman, Kendal Krebs, Maya Khanna and Emily Troutman.

Sophomores - Carmella Bickel, Olivia Giles, Tanner Maneval and Angelica Masser.

Freshmen - Emma Gownley, John-Daniel Kerris, Maria Nguyen, Carmine Picarelli, Nora Rompolski and Dawson Williams.

Eighth-grade - Frances Czeponis, Charles Keer, Madison Munson, Christopher Stewart and Hailey Swaldi.

Seventh-grade - Alison Barvitskie, Mackenzie Catino, Abigail Doss, Anna Gownley, Kolbi Krebs, Caitlin Shulski and Ethan Sten.

First honors

Seniors - William Allen, Caitlin Funk, Erich Meloy, Regina Perez, Mikayla Persing and Bailey Trell.

Juniors - Nicholas Adams, Taylor Bozza, Kristen Komara, Tommy Nguyen, Kayleigh Shovlin and Maya Yoder.

Sophomores - Elizabeth Alexander, Kelsey Conner, Brooke Korkuch, Shaylee Miller, John Nguyen and Zackary Zarkowski.

Freshmen - Selina Albert, Alesha Rutledge and Zackery Smith.

Eighth-grade - Giavanna Candelora, Emily DeManicor, Ty Klembara, Olivia McGinley, Mary Richardson, Elizabeth Ross, Thomas Schultz, Jared Stewart and Lillian Yuschock.

Seventh-grade - Hanna Bozza, Krystof Lapotsky and Leanna Nguyen.

Second honors

Juniors - Celine Jones, Erika Kapushinski, Nicole Komara and Brittney Lahr.

Sophomores - Michael Anzulavich, Charles Aurand, Lawrence Czeponis, Cherisse Kulik and Jarrid Todd.

Freshmen - Stephen Gresh, Amanda Horan, Phillip Hutnick-Kenenitz and Karen Martinez.

Eighth-grade - Lilyauna Bickel, Sierra Coleman, Cydney Crissman, Michael Czarnecki, Connor Fenix, Jenna Jerdon, Riley Kieffer, Channing Maneval, Ryan Mirarchi, Elizabeth Nguyen, Gianna Picarelli, Cassidy Shovlin and Behret Steinbauer.

Seventh-grade - Peter Long and Briana Tamborelli.

Firework shows in Shamokin and Mount Carmel Saturday evening featured an assortment of shells that exploded into a variety of colors and shapes, much to the

satisfaction of thousands of spectators who look forward to the annual events.

As usual, "oohs" and "ahhs" were the common responses after viewing fireworks shot from culm banks high above Shamokin and Mount Carmel. Most people watched the shows from sidewalks and public places, while some of the most adventurous located high vantage points in the mountains and hills overlooking the towns.

In Shamokin, the annual display shot from the Glen Burn Bank was sponsored by Citizens for a Better Community and Citizens Fireworks Inc. It featured more than 1,200 shells of varying size, ranging from 2½ to 10 inches in diameter. Applause followed the end of the display, which was capped off with an "atomic bomb fireball" and a barrage of more than 750 shells.

Rachel Kerstetter and Rhaeghan Henz, members of the Shamokin Area junior high football cheerleading squad, were two of the many volunteers who made Shamokin's show possible. Kerstetter and Hent, along with other members of the squad, took one-hour shifts collecting donations on Second Street. Other volunteers manned collection sites on Route 61 near the Cameron Bridge and Pool World.

In Mount Carmel, several 10-inch shells illuminated the night sky during the display, which was sponsored by Clover Hose Company. The fireworks were shot from Wilburton Mountain, north of Mount Carmel.

Earlier in day, volunteers from Clover Hose were busy cooking food and manning concession stands at a block party next to the station. Meanwhile, members from Pa. Pyro Artists and High Volume Pyro worked through a light mist to prepare for the show.

Workers placing mortar tubes said they were initially concerned about the rain that moved through the morning, but knew the show would go on once the moderate rain turned to showers.

"We have done displays in the rain before," one worker said. "This mist won't affect anything."

The Venus-Jupiter conjunction show continues in the low western sky in the early evening, and I sure hope you've enjoyed it. The best planet celestial hugging has started its slow parting of the ways, but the two worlds will still be within shouting distance of each other the rest of the month.

Meanwhile, another planet is visible in the southern skies, and in my opinion, is one of the best sites you can see through a telescope, even a smaller scope. As I told you last month, these are the good times and the bad times for observing Saturn. At just over 850 million miles away, it's still fairly close to its minimum distance from Earth for 2015.

Another thing in Saturn's favor is the tilt of Saturn's ring system. It's nearly at its maximum angle to our line of sight, making it really visible to us. In fact, most of the light that you see when you glance at Saturn with the naked eye is sunlight reflecting off all the ice in Saturn's rings that, by the way, are only about 50 feet thick.

The downer about telescoping Saturn this year is that because of where it is among the backdrop of stars it never gets all that far above the horizon. When evening twilight is over, look for the brightest star-like object you can see in low southern sky and that will be Saturn. Unfortunately, that's about as high as it gets. At that height above the horizon, Earth's atmosphere is thicker and has a definite blurring effect, especially with the higher humidity of summertime and strong upper atmosphere winds. The ringed wonder of our solar system is still a great telescope destination.

The best advice I can give you for viewing Saturn through a telescope is to take long continuous views and hope that you'll catch a more transparent patch of sky coming through. Long looks also give your eye more time to adjust to the light level in your eyepiece field of view and allow you to see more detail. Along with details on Saturn itself, you should be able to see some of it's many moons that resemble tiny stars.

Saturn doesn't have another planet near it in the low southern heavens, but it does have some very intriguing company. It's in the faint constellation Libra the Scales. The constellation is supposed to depict the scales of Roman justice, a symbol of justice still used today. Like most constellations, though, it's a tremendous stretch turning that collection of mainly faint stars into a Roman scale. Libra does have a couple of brighter stars that are most interesting for their names. They are Zubenelgenubi, pronounced zoo-ben-el-je-new-bee, and Zubeneschamali, pronounced zuba-nesh-a-molly. These two mouthful-for-a-name stars are the next brightest shiners to the right of Saturn.

These tough tongue-twisting names are Arabic and translate in English to the south claw and northern claw, respectively. What do "claw" stars have to do with a Roman scale? Absolutely nothing. As it turns out the constellation Libra was invented by the Roman Emperor Julius Caesar. Originally, the stars that make up Libra were once upon a time part of the neighboring constellation to the left, Scorpius the Scorpion. Zubenelgenubi and Zubeneschamali used to mark the claws of the great constellation Scorpius the Scorpion. One day, Caesar just decided to hack the claws off Scorpius and made the "Z" stars and few others around them into the new constellation Libra the Scales. Caesar had that kind of power. That's why I say that this summer, Saturn is in the clutches of a giant celestial scorpion.

Unlike Libra, Scorpius is one of the few constellations that truly resembles what its supposed to be. Its brightest star Antares is the next brightest object to the lower left of Saturn and marks the heart of the Scorpion. If you have an unobstructed view of the southern horizon, you can really see the tail of Scorpius. Incidentally, you can't help but notice Antares has a ruddy appearance to it. That's because it's what astronomers call a super red giant star, or a swelled-up older star. One day, it will explode into a colossal supernova explosion. Antares is possibly well over 600 million miles in diameter. By comparison, our sun is less than a million miles in diameter. In fact, this behemoth star is so large that if you were to put Antares in our solar system in place of our sun, the planets Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars and even Jupiter would lie inside of it. Our world would experience the ultimate in global warming.

In that case, Saturn would be the closest planet to Antares, but it wouldn't look the same. The ice in the rings would be gone, as well most of the gas hydrogen and helium gas of the planet.

Let's keep our humble little sun just where it is.

Celestial hugging

Venus and Jupiter are starting to separate in the western skies, but they're still hanging close together. At the start of this week, they're less than three degrees apart. They're the brightest star like object in the early evening sky.

(Lynch is an amateur astronomer and author of the book, "Stars, a Month by Month Tour of the Constellations." Contact him at mikewlynch@comcast.net.)