HARRISBURG - As the new school year gets underway, motorists need to be vigilant in order to avoid potentially tragic crashes and strong penalties as school buses return to the roads to pick up students waiting for a ride.

"Our lives are filled with distractions, but we simply must put them aside and focus on the road ahead when we get behind the wheel," said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. "Even a momentary distraction - especially around school buses and in school zones - can lead to tragedy."

Motorists approaching a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended are required to stop in all directions at least 10 feet from the bus. The only exception to the law is when a school bus is stopped on the opposite side of a highway clearly separated by a divider, such as concrete barriers or grass medians. Even in this situation, motorists should remain watchful of students trying to cross the road to catch the bus.

If convicted of violating Pennsylvania's school bus stopping law, drivers face a $250 fine, five points on their driving record and a 60-day license suspension.

Students are also exposed to traffic while waiting for buses or walking to the bus stop or school. Motorists are reminded to be cautious and alert when approaching a school bus stop and to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.

In addition to watching for school buses, motorists should be alert in school zones, which become hubs of vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Motorists are required to slow down to the posted speed limit of 15 mph in school zones. If convicted, violators face a fine and three points on their driving record.

For more information on Pennsylvania's school bus stopping law, school bus safety tips and programs, visit PennDOT's highway safety website, www.JustDrivePa.org, and select the "School Bus Safety" link under the Traffic Safety Information Center.

The constellation Lyra is faint, but it contains one of the brightest stars in the sky, Vega. As soon as it gets dark enough after sunset, look for the brightest star you can see, nearly overhead in the high southeastern sky. That's Vega, the third brightest star in our night sky. Vega is more than 25 light-years away, or about 146 trillion miles distant. The light that we see from Vega tonight left that star when George Bush Sr. was president.

Vega is also a celestial sign post in the heavens. It marks the direction that the Sun and our entire solar system are headed as we journey around the center of the Milky Way Galaxy. We're ripping along at more than 43,000 mph. Despite that breakneck speed, it would still take nearly 500 million years to reach Vega, but that's not going to happen because Vega is racing around the Milky Way as well. It's an endless chase.

Vega serves as the brightest star in the small constellation Lyra the Harp. It's fairly easy to see in a reasonably dark sky. About all there is to Lyra is the bright star Vega, and a small parallelogram of much fainter stars just below Vega. If you can make a harp out of that, more power to you. According to Greek and Roman legend, Lyra is supposed to be a lyre, or harp, given by the god Apollo to the famous poet and musician Orpheus. That isn't the only story about Lyra, however. Different ancient cultures have different stories. I really like the Chinese story about Lyra. I hope you will, too.

It goes like this: Once upon a time there was a young man named Tung Yung who was born into a wealthy family. Tung Yung's early years were carefree, growing up in a castle with a huge backyard. When he reached his teens, though, hard times hit his family, big time. There were severe droughts. Crops failed year after year and soon the family fortune had dwindled considerably. On top of that, a disease spread over the countryside and took the lives of all of his siblings, and his father also took ill. Tung Yung was the only one left who was physically able to bring home money for what was left of his family: his mother and his ailing father. But there was no work, no jobs. Out of desperation, he hung a sign over his head at the market place and sold himself off as a slave. When he was bought, he sent the money to his folks and Tung Yung was off to a grueling life of slavery.

He was forced to work in the fields from sunrise to sunset, and when he returned home to his one-room hut, he was often too exhausted to fix himself dinner. Day after day after day, he went through this ordeal and soon his own health started to fail.

The Chinese god of the sun saw all of this from his perch in heaven and took great pity on Tung Yung. He sent his daughter Chih Nu, the goddess of weaving, to Tung Yung's side in his hut to nurse him back to good health. She gave him some heavenly TLC. Soon his health returned and eventually Tung Yung married Chih Nu. They even had a son together.

While he was away at work, she stayed in the hut and used her godly talents to weave absolutely wonderful tapestries with her magic loom. She would then sell them for a handsome price at the market. She soon raised enough money to buy Tung Yung out of slavery. As her tapestry business grew, more and more money was coming into the family and soon Tung Yung and Chih Nu had their own farm.

A few years later when they were living the good life, Chih Nu realized that her mission was done and she was to return to heaven. After a tearful farewell, she climbed back into heaven and as she did, all the stars brightened and one brand new, very bright star appeared. The star we now call Vega was the new light created by Chih Nu. Next to Vega are four stars shaped like a parallelogram, which makes up Chih Nu's magic loom. Now there's a well-woven tale.

(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.)

Fall festival and parade

TREVORTON - Organizers of the Zerbe Township Fall Festival are looking for floats, custom cars, hot rods, fire companies, business vehicles and walkers of all ages to join in a parade through town preceding the festival at 11 a.m. Oct. 3.

The parade will begin at the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Trevorton and end at the athletic field at the Trevorton Foundry where the festival will begin at noon.

More than 40 food, game and craft vendors are already slated to attend the festival, with more spaces available.

To host a vendor table or sign up for the parade, call the Zerbe Township municipal office at 570-797-1974.

Community service to be held

COAL TOWNSHIP - Those participating in District Justice John Gembic's community service project should meet no later than 9 a.m. Wednesday at the Coal Bowl.

Tornado facts

· Tornadoes are found mostly in the United States, east of the Rocky Mountains.

· With 47 per year, Oklahoma has the highest average number of tornadoes.

· Sixty-nine percent of tornadoes have winds of less than 100 mph, although they can be far stronger. Violent tornadoes, with winds greater than 205 mph, account for just 2 percent of all tornadoes, yet cause 70 percent of all tornado deaths.

· Most tornadoes are less than 1/4 of a mile wide on the ground, but can also exceed 1 mile in width.

· The average speed of a tornado is about 35 mph. However, they can remain almost stationary or move as fast as 70 mph.

· The average tornado moves from southwest to northeast, although they can move in any direction and even change direction.

· In the southern United States, peak occurrence of tornadoes is March through May, but they can occur anytime.

Source: National Weather Service

Joe Gatelli is the kind of guy who keeps six portable weather radios in various spots of his house, loves nothing more than checking out radar patterns on his nifty iPad app and who once won a trivia contest hosted by the public television show, "Weather World."

Those who know the South Scranton man know his love of weather runs deep. For years, the now-retired teacher got to share that passion with students in his physics class at Scranton Central and West Scranton high schools.

No doubt, his enthusiasm rubbed off on a great number of people, including his daughter, Jeana Gatelli.

With her serving as his faithful sidekick, Gatelli recently had the opportunity to check off one of the major items on his bucket list when the two spent a week chasing tornadoes out on the Great Plains.

Three days into their trip, they hit pay dirt in Simla, Colorado. They watched five Enhanced Fujita-1-scale tornadoes over an hour span. During that period, they were witness to the extremely rare sight of two tornadoes hitting the ground at once - the fabled "double tornado."

Their guide, renowned tornado chaser Warren Faidley, kept them at a safe five-mile distance from the action.

"It wasn't like 'Twister,' " Jeana said, referring to the popular 1996 film about storm chasers. "We would have liked to have gotten closer."

They couldn't quibble about much else, though, given Faidley told them afterward, "You guys saw more than anyone I ever took."

After all, some don't see any at all.

"We were very lucky to see what we got to see," Joe said.

Finding a guide

Joe had been pondering a storm-chasing trip for years, well before the phenomenon came into vogue thanks to "Twister" and TV shows like "Storm Chasers."

"If you're a weather junkie, it's one thing that's on your list," he said.

Gatelli's wife, former Scranton City Councilwoman Judy Gatelli, thought the idea was bonkers, and told him so. His daughter, however, was intrigued.

"Because of my dad, I've always been interested in weather and science," Jeana said, before adding with a laugh, "Nobody else had the cajones."

Finally, they committed, and began planning for the trip about a year ago.

After researching tour guides, they went with Faidley, a photojournalist whom many consider the first person to pursue a full-time career as a storm chaser. Joe had been highly impressed with Faidley since seeing him speak at Penn State Worthington Scranton campus many years ago.

Faidley's expertise doesn't come cheap. A tour with him runs about $10,000.

"But what we liked about his (tour) was that it was only Jeana and me, and not some big bus tour," Joe said.

He and Jeana set off on their trip on May 31. They flew into Amarillo, Texas, then drove up through the Texas Panhandle into Oklahoma, then Colorado.

"It's flat as a pancake," Jeana said of the terrain.

"But we were actually 5,200 feet above sea level," Joe said. "It's the front range of the Rockies."

'Hotbed of activity'

They arrived to what Jeana called "a hotbed of activity." They and Faidley met up with a number of other storm chasers, most of them well seasoned.

The group included Stan Rose of the National Weather Service, and a guy who had built his own storm-chasing tank.

"They all seemed to congregate in the same places," Jeana said.

The next couple days were spent traveling to different locales with conditions ripe for a tornado. Excursions didn't start until early afternoon, given the storms typically build off of the Rockies between the hours of 2 and 4 p.m., Joe said.

These locations weren't big population centers by any stretch. The scenery mostly consisted of cattle farms and wind turbines, Joe said. Because of heavy rains, the ground was a lush green.

"We could see Pikes Peak from where we were," Jeana added.

Faidley's gadget-filled SUV featured state-of-the-art GPS mapping and two radars for up-to-the-minute storm tracking.

"The Weather Bureau info would come in and every minute or two you'd have a new picture," Joe said. "It's as close to live as you can get."

Faidley was "very careful" throughout, Joe said. While radar has helped significantly in the tracking of storms, tornadoes often don't "go by an exact set of rules," said Joe, mentioning three noted tornado researchers who were killed not long ago due to a tornado that took an unexpected path.

Showtime

For all the moving around, the Gatellis and Faidley didn't see much at first. They'd set up at a good spot, and tornadoes would be in the vicinity, but they weren't visible on account of the high precipitation producing what chasers call a "rain wrap."

"We saw them, but we didn't see them," Joe said. "Low precipitation is what you want."

That's what they got on their third afternoon out, when the skies quickly turned ominous, and the temperatures went from warm to jacket-chilly in an instant. Some storm chasers went off to another spot around the Nebraska-Kansas border, but Faidley had "a good gut feeling" that the tornadoes would come down in Simla instead, Joe said.

His intuition proved correct as a "caterpillar line" of vehicles formed to watch the first tornado drop from its wall cloud and develop into a swirling funnel.

An exhilarating rush of adrenaline washed over the Gatellis as they took in the multiple-tornado show over the next hour. At several points, Joe found himself yelling out, "C'mon, baby!"

When it was over, the other chasers cheered on the two newbies.

"We were tearing up," Jeana said.

"It's like when a rookie hits his first home run, and everyone else is happy for him," said Joe, who was wearing a "PSU storm chaser" T-shirt that he got through the university's celebrated meteorology department.

Like the veteran storm chasers he met on the trip, Joe said he's now completely hooked on the experience.

"I can't wait to go back," he said.

The summer may be winding down, but there's still plenty of family-fun events to do in Schuylkill County.

The Schuylkill Haven Island Park festival will be held Saturday. Enjoy non-stop amusement, family fun, food, horse-drawn rides, bingo, magic, climbing wall, Kids Korner entertainment, tons of live music and more.

Heritage Day and the Parade of Nations is slated for Saturday in downtown Shenandoah. Parade starts at 10 a.m., followed by festivities at Girard Park. Enjoy the 21 nations represented at the parade and ethnic foods, crafts, games and live music.

The Schuylkill Master Gardeners present Field to Fork at 10 a.m. Saturday at Hope Hill Lavender Farm. Learn container vegetable growing and sample fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits. Hope Hill lavender products, cut flowers, fresh produce, potted plants and baked goods available for purchase.

A Faerie FanFaire! Festival will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday at Stonehedge Gardens. Music, dance, theatre, crafts, games, unicorns, trolls, contests and prizes and food. Rain or shine.

A hike to the Lebanon Reservoir is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Meet at the Swatara State parking lot to carpool to the dog-friendly, easy five-mile hike. Bring a bagged lunch to this Schuylkill on the Move walk. Call 570-622-4124 for details.

Your single blood donation can save the lives of up to three people. Premature babies and cancer and surgical patients sometimes need blood during treatment. There is no replacement for fresh blood, and it expires too quickly so maintaining a steady supply is vital. There will be blood drives at the Bethesda EC Church in Schuylkill Haven Monday, at the Friedensburg Fire Company Thursday and at the Schuylkill Mall Aug. 29.

Schuylkill Make A Difference Day will take place the week of Saturday, Oct. 24. Join thousands of your neighbors during Schuylkill County's largest volunteer event to help improve the quality of life in our communities. No project is too small and every effort helps someone. If you or your group or business need a registration from, are looking for project suggestions, or have questions, contact this office at 570-628-1426 or jjohnston@co.schuylkill.pa.us.

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. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/schuylkillcountycommunityvolunteersinaction.

Road to Recovery drivers

Times: Flexible. Choose own availability or location.

Responsibility: Drive patients to and from treatments. Use own vehicle or agency vehicle if available.

Skills: Must have valid PA driver's license, good driving record, a reliable vehicle and vehicle insurance. Background checks and orientation required.

Location: In and out of county.

Contact: Dee Mathis, American Cancer Society, 570-874-1458

Homework helpers

Times: One hour per week after school during the school term and daytime during the summer.

Responsibility: Help students to reach their full potential by assisting them with homework in science, technology, engineering, math, reading, language arts, artistic and cultural enrichment. Assignments are given in advance. Teacher support provided.

Skills: Age 55 and above, high school education, clearance fees reimbursed. Apply now so you're ready for the school year in September.

Location: At several school districts.

Contact: Carol Bowen, RSVP of Schuylkill County, 570-622-3103.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Rainbow Club met Aug. 9, in the church hall with 22 people in attendance.

Ruth Romanoski, president, opened the meeting with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Over Fifty song. August birthdays were announced and celebrated with song. The July minutes were read by Donna Mordan, then approved and filed.

Florence Verano, treasurer, gave her report. Mass cards were sent out to family members of the deceased. A thank you card was received by the Sandri family.

Verano announced upcoming trips: Thursday, Allenberry to see "South Pacific"; Oct. 1, "A Mighty Fortress at Dutch Apple," and Nov. 5, Christmas show at Dutch Apple. Members can contact Florence at 570-648-0949 for information.

The health report was given, and prayers were asked for club member, family and friends.

The club will donate a health and beauty basket for a church fundraiser. Donations for the basket are being accepted. Lib Reiprish gave a monetary donation.

Cakes were donated by Ann Koshinski, Gloria Shawda, Catherine Reed, Pat Kroh, Stephanie Losiewicz and Tony Billas. Snacks were donated by Barbara Zuricich, Florence Verano, Ruth Romanoski and Pat Redd. Kathy Fenix won the attendance award. The 50/50's were won by Shawda and Tina Blessing. Verano, Yuricich and Shawda won the cake raffles.

Snacks were served and bingo was played. The next meeting will be Sept. 13.

ELYSBURG - It turned out to be "couples' night" at the Ralpho Township Public Library Bridge Club.

Winners were:

First place, husband-and-wife couple of Ferne and Dale Krothe, of Berwick; second, partner team of Bud Breech and Ruth Wiehe; third, husband-and-wife team of Paul and Joyce Bartholomew; fourth, husband and wife, Diane and Dave McKinley; fifth, partner team of Alex Jacoski and Rick Hock; sixth, partner team of Sandy Gardner and Judi Gori; seventh, Mina and Dave McCormick, and eighth, partner team of Eleanor Blackwell and Nancy Booth.

All levels of players are invited to play bridge from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at the library. Bob Reed, leader of the group, provides some instruction before or during play for those interested in improving their skills. Call the library to sign up at 570-672-9449. There is no cost to join the group, just bring yourself and maybe a friend.

RIVERSIDE - When workers of Merck Cherokee parked their cars in the employees parking lot Saturday, their minds were not on their jobs, but on a fun day out with their families.

With bounce houses, games, a photo booth, bathtub and toilet bowl scooters, an employee raffle, and more, the annual Merck Family Fun Day was a big hit.

Normally, the family festivities take place at a local amusement park, but in celebration of the plant's anniversary, manager Brian Killen and his staff did something a little different.

"We held it here at Cherokee Park to give our employees the chance to bring their families in and give tours to show them where they work every day and what exactly we do here," Killen said.

For Killen, a native of Ireland who has been the manager at Cherokee for two years, he used the day to speak with retirees.

"I'm learning so many great stories of the past," Killen told the crowd. "This day is great because it's for all of you who have sacrificed for us and your efforts for Merck all these years."

The event celebrated the 65th anniversary of Merck and Co. establishment in Riverside and the 30th anniversary of the creation of the principal drug made there, the antibiotic Primaxin.

From harm to help

Merck and Co's Cherokee Pharmaceuticals Riverside site was first operational in the 1940s. Ironically, the plant was built to create something that harmed people instead of help them.

The site was first chosen by Heyden Chemical Company for the production of hexamine, an intermediate in the manufacture of an explosive for World War II.

Originally, the plant was targeted for Tennessee and named "Cherokee" for the Indian reservations of the Great Smoky Mountains, but the U.S. government intervened and selected the site in Riverside because of its proximity to a plentiful fuel supply - Pennsylvania's anthracite coal fields.

After the war ended, the Riverside plant was put on standby until, after two years of negotiations, Merck and Co., leased the plant Aug. 1, 1950, from the U.S. Government, but retained the Cherokee name.

Merck purchased the plant outright in 1965, and since then, the plant has been at the forefront of medical manufacturing.

Lifesaving work

With the exception of the years 2008 to 2010, the Cherokee plant has been under Merck control. Inside, 280 employees and 50 contractors make the active ingredients of two well-known antibiotics - Invanz and Primaxin.

The Riverside plant is the only location in the world where the ingredient is made.

"The ingredient is then shipped off to other factories, which formulates it into the IV solution or pill form. We say that if you are familiar with our drugs, you are very sick," Killen said.

Andrew Stefanowicz, a process engineer at Merck, knows very well how well the medicine works.

"My mother was septic and the medicine they gave her was Primaxin, and it did wonders for her," Stefanowicz said.

The amazing thing about Merck Cherokee's success is the patent for the two drugs expired 15 years ago, but the Riverside plant remains at the forefront of its production.

"We sell about $900 million of product a year. We take great pride in the fact that we have this skilled work staff that can create this complex product that no one else in the world can do," Killen said.

The plant and its employees take pride in the good that is done there.

"We work very hard to reduce our environmental footprint for our process," the manager said. "We recently completed a $7 million upgrade in our infrastructure that reduces environmental concerns by 60 percent."

The Environmental Protection Agency and Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection visit monthly to test the plant's infrastructure.

"We haven't had any problems. We like being invisible in that aspect because then we are being good neighbors to the safety of everyone around us, but also good neighbors with the employment we provide to the area, and helping organizations through our community grants program," Killen said.

When asked what the future holds for Merck Cherokee, Killen said there is another antibiotic medicine in the works.

"We are currently in the clinical trials for that medication, but our main focus is - how do we stay at the forefront of antibiotic medication?" Killen said.

With the staff currently in place, the plant manager doesn't think it will be a problem.

"We have fathers and sons working together here and generations of families working throughout out history here in Riverside," Killen said. "We have tremendous people with exceptional skills making life better for people around the world every day. That's what it's all about."

UNIVERSITY PARK - Cara F. Sinopoli graduated with distinction from The Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences with a degree in veterinary and biomedical sciences at commencement ceremonies held May 10 at Bryce Jordan Center.

While at University Park, Sinopoli was a member of the reproduction research team and pre-vet club, and served as secretary of the small and exotic animal club. She also spent a term studying abroad in Belize, and was a member of the Penn State Club Track squad.

Sinopoli will continue her studies toward becoming a doctor of veterinary medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, where she is enrolled in the four-year program at the School of Veterinary Medicine.

A 2011 graduate of Mount Carmel Area High School, she is a daughter of David and Cindy Sinopoli.

COAL TOWNSHIP - The following memorials for April, May and June have been presented to Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School.

Ashley Albert by Mr. and Mrs. Tom Keyack.

Julius "Jules" Ardan by Margaret and Thomas Harmon, Libbie Reiprish.

Kitty Arterbridge by Margaret and Lon Brankovich.

Britt Bartol by Mr. and Mrs. Martin P. McCarthy.

Charles Bartol by Mr. and Mrs. James Curran, Mr. and Mrs. John Dabulis, Connie Fabrizio, Mr. and Mrs. John Fabrizio, Gene and Marge Garancheski, Bob and Mary Ann Hartman, Michael and Jane Klembara, Mr. and Mrs. William Korbich, Mr. and Mrs. J. Edward Ludes, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Metrocavage, Mr. and Mrs. Leo Mulhall, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Slodysko, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wurster Sr.

Anna Bergamo by Margaret and Lon Brankovich.

Steven Billas by Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Billas.

Carol Bogush by Daniel and Nancy Kerris.

Mae Louise Bressi by Gloria Catino, Christopher Reiprish.

Jean Brokus by Mr. and Mrs. J. Edward Ludes.

Andrew J. Brown by Andrew Brown.

Stanley and Mary Cicheskie by Karen Dutchess.

Louis Dallago by Judith Polites.

Karen Dallabrida by Lorelei Duke.

Steve Darrup by Knights of Columbus Council 628.

John Devecchio by Mr. and Mrs. John McKay.

Irene Dirienzo by Margaret and Lon Brankovich.

Robert Eckman by Phyllis Barrett, Brian T. Derk, Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Dondero and family, Mr. and Mrs. John Fabrizio, Lee Konjura, Mr. and Mrs. William Korbich, Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Krebs, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Levins, Mr. and Mrs. John McKay, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Reiprish, Mr. and Mrs. Gary Timco, Julie Ann Weber, Barbara Yuricich, Stephen Zarick.

Charles Finn by Mr. and Mrs. Earl Peckne Sr.

Elizabeth Foley by Margaret and Lon Brankovich.

Josh Fredick by Ken and Tiziana Albert.

Barry Getchey by Elizabeth Gilger and family, Dr. and Mrs. Sudhir Khanna and family, Michael and Jane Klembara, Mr. and Mrs. John McKay.

Joseph "Joey" Getchey by Elizabeth Gilger and family, Dr. and Mrs. Sudhir Khanna and family, Michael and Jane Klembara, Mr. and Mrs. John McKay.

Albert and Monica Ghezzi by Mr. and Mrs. Malcom C. Farrow.

Carolyn Giacomini by Alice O'Donnell.

James Glennon by Judy and Bruce Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Norman Hazell, Dominic Olcese, Marvin and Betty Rohrs.

Troy Griffiths by Connie Fabrizio, Gene and Marge Garancheski.

Lorraine Halcovich by Gene and Marge Garancheski,

Mrs. James R. Holland by Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kilkenny.

John Hollis by Julie Griffiths, Daniel and Nancy Kerris, Knights of Columbus Council 628.

Edward Jacoski by Edward Jacoski.

Rita M. Johnson by Ann and John Benedict.

Kathy Karycki by Margaret and Lon Brankovich.

Dr. Anne Kelley by Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Willette.

Joseph Klebon Sr. by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Dabulis, James Flanagan Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish.

Vince Kleman by Margaret and Lon Brankovich.

Michael Klembara by Michael and Jane Klembara.

Michael Klokis by Julie Griffiths.

Jacqueline Kolody by Mr. and Mrs. Tom Keyack.

Joseph Korn by Helen Winhofer.

Leonard, Helen and Rose Marie Krepshaw by Leonard Krepshaw Jr.

Mary Kurtz by Joseph Miller III.

Frances Luberecki by Elizabeth Reiprish and family.

Gerry Luberecki by Elizabeth Reiprish and family.

Constance Martini by James Flanagan, Mr. and Mrs. William Korbich, Barbara Lizzul, Atty. and Mrs. Vincent Makowski, Mr. and Mrs. John McKay, Mr. and Mrs. Leo Muhall, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish, Harry Roberts, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kidron, Michael and Jane Klembara, Mr. and Mrs. John Klinger.

Mary Ellen Murray by Thomas and Assunta Lavelle.

Adele Ososkie by Margaret and Lon Brankovich.

Jeanne Patrick by Dorothy Morata.

Mr. and Mrs. Rudy Persing by Mr. and Mrs. John McKay

Edward Polites by Judith Polites.

Joseph and Helen Popson by Joseph Miller III,

Peggy Rovito by Gene and Marge Garancheski, Mr. and Mrs. Rocco Roma.

Theresa Sandri by Rita Albert, Mr. and Mrs. Esther Ardan, Robert and Kimberly Ball, Mary Ann Balonis, Ann and John Benedict, Cecilia and Richard Bertini, Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Billas, Black Diamond Sports, Joseph and Judith Brokus, Edward Jr. and Loretta Brown, Geraldine Bushick, Joanne Chesney, Community Action Agency, Mr. and Mrs. John Dabulis, Mr. and Mrs. John Demsko, Regina Dorrell, Cynthia M. Drucis, Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Dunleavy, Connie Fabrizio, Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Fabrizio, Mr. and Mrs. Saverio V. Feudale, Bernadette Foulds, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Girolami and daughter, Girolami Memorial Golf Benefit, Elva Gresavage, Irene Grow, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Harmon, Virginia Hedges, Helene Hoffman, Jessica Hubler, Roberta Jasper, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Kalinowski, Jan Kanaskie, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Katchick,, Robert and Lenore Kealey, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Keyack, Keystone Tax Associates LLC, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kidron, Michael and Jane Klembara, Mr. and Mrs. John Klinger, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Klinger, Shirley Klock, Lee Konjura, Atty. and Mrs. Frank J. Konopka and family, Mr. and Mrs. William Korbich, Olga Kuzniar, Catherine Labosky Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Lauer, Matt and Hollie Leavens, Robert and Mary Ann Levins, Mr. and Mrs. J. Edward Ludes, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Mack, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Madden, Mr. and Mrs. James Mains, Brian Major and family, Atty. and Mrs. Vincent Makowski. Mr. and Mrs. John McKay, Meadowbrook Manor, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Metrocavage, Mr. and Mrs. David Mills, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Mirarchi, Mr. and Mrs. David Motto and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Leo Mulhall, Margaret A. Neary, Alice O'Donnell, OLOL junior high basketball team, Vincent Poplaski. Queen of Most Holy Rosary Parish Council of Catholic Women, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Reiprish, Roth family, James and Jennifer Sandri and family, Mr. and Mrs. David Sandri, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Sandri, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth F. Sandri, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Sandri, Anne Schlagle, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Schultz, Shamokin/Mount Carmel Little League Inc., George J. Shervanick, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Shervinskie, Mr. and Mrs. David Shinskie, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Slodysko, Barry and Charmaine Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sowash, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Swartz, Mrs. Margaret M. Thomas, Grey Towers, Gloria Treese, Grethel Vinup, Eleanor Waraksa, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Weikel, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wesloskie, Dr. and Mrs. Robert Wislock, Bernadine Witowski, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wurster Sr., Florence Yodzio, Ceil Zaneski, Ronald Zyla.

Joseph Schoppy by Daniel and Nancy Kerris.

Mr. and Mrs. Albert Sebes by Mr. and Mrs. Martin P. McCarthy.

Margaret Shannon by Julie Griffiths, Mr. and Mrs. Martin P. McCarthy.

Joseph Shuder by Julie Griffiths, Mr. and Mrs. Kevin M. Hauer, Judith Polites.

Francis P. Sobotor by Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Garancheski.

Julia Staniszewski by Florence Rosini.

Anne Stonik by Barbara Kelley.

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Welker by Dr. Mary Ray.

Francis Whalen by Margaret and Lon Brankovich.

Laura Whalen by Mr. and Mrs. John Benedict.

Diane White by Michael J. White.

Mr. and Mrs. John Woytowich by Mr. and Mrs. J. Edward Ludes.

Marian Wydra by Rita Albert, Lorelei Duke.

Josephine Yeager by Mr. and Mrs. Steve Drochak, Lady Islanders Golf, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Olcese, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Pinamonti and family, Mary Jane Toccket.

Sarah (Sally) Zanella by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Metrocavage.

Mary Zebertavage by Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Billas.

Theresa Zukus by Margaret and Lon Brankovich, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Rood, Mr. and Mrs. David Shinskie, Charles A. Zukus.

Kathleen Zyla by Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sowash, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Zyla.

HARRISBURG - State Attorney General Kathleen Kane's ouster from office could come suddenly and with no advance public warning if the Supreme Court takes emergency action to suspend her law license.

It's not known whether the court or its arm, the disciplinary board, is even considering such an unusual move because of confidentiality rules.

The first word would come with a court order posted on the court's website and Twitter feed. If the court decided against taking action, it would not be made public, said James Koval, a spokesman for the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.

With Kane vowing not to resign in the face of criminal charges, action by the court to suspend her law license is an avenue for those seeking her removal from office. Kane cannot remain as attorney general under the state Constitution if she is not a member of the bar of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

Kane is charged with obstruction, lying to a grand jury and conspiracy in connection with a grand jury leak case.

The 13 members of the disciplinary board are appointed by the Supreme Court. The board in turn appoints the disciplinary counsel who investigates complaints. Dunmore attorney Brian J. Cali and Wilkes-Barre attorney David Schwager are board members.

The handling of complaints and investigations against attorneys is confidential to protect reputations, said Koval.

Veteran Capitol activist Gene Stilp disclosed last week that he filed a citizen's complaint with the board to lift Kane's law license. Stilp based his complaint on a recent grand jury report recommending charges against Kane. He said her actions violate the ethical standards for Pennsylvania attorneys.

Kane has called on the disciplinary board to suspend any activity against her license until she gets authorization to publicly release pornographic emails tied to an earlier scandal in the attorney general's office. She said the release of those emails is key to her defense against the charges.

A Montgomery County judge involved with the case said he hasn't received a formal request from Kane to allow her to release the emails. Judge William Carpenter said the emails Kane referred to weren't introduced before his grand jury.

The disciplinary board won't be swayed by Kane's request, said William Costopoulos, a prominent Harrisburg defense attorney.

"I do not believe the Pennsylvania Disciplinary Board is going to act or not act based on anything she said or did (Wednesday)," he said.

Emergency action to suspend an attorney's license is unusual.

It would begin with the disciplinary counsel and at least one board member petitioning the court for license suspension in a case where an attorney is causing substantial public or private harm because of "egregious conduct."

Kane would have 10 days to respond to a petition, said spokesman Chuck Ardo.

More typically, the court and disciplinary board waits for the criminal justice process to end.

For example, the court suspended the law license of former Sen. Jane Orie, R-Allegheny County, after her conviction on campaign corruption charges. Orie later agreed to be disbarred after she was released from a state prison. "The unknown is whether they (disciplinary board) will recommend a suspension under an emergency petition or just let the criminal justice system run its own course," Costopoulos said.

NORTHUMBERLAND - A Jew, a Muslim and a Christian walk into a house of worship.

Although this sounds like the beginning of a joke, it happens every Sunday at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Susquehanna Valley.

The "UUs," as they like to call themselves, invite people of all backgrounds to come together in their chapel to share their beliefs, even if their fellow parishioners disagree.

Ann Evans, minister, said attendees at services include Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Jews, agnostics, Faithists, Deists and other types of believers across the religious spectrum.

Lenore Askew, a founding member, described a UU's faith as based on "covenant, not creed."

"We make an agreement to support each other in our search for truth," she said.

Despite the convergence of many religious beliefs, Sunday morning services with the UUs is remarkably similar to a conventional church service. The congregation gathers before an altar to sing songs, share readings and hear sermons.

Unlike a conventional church service, the readings come from a variety of texts. A passage from the Bible may accompany the Sutras or the Vedas. Often the readings come from nontypical religious books that parishioners have found spiritually enlightening.

"We're fond of poets," said Evans.

Sharing

In contrast to a typical church, Evans only gives a sermon periodically. Instead, congregation members are encouraged to take the pulpit and describe their beliefs.

"We take advantage of the people in our congregation to share traditions," said Carl Askew, president of the congregation.

Congregation members are encouraged to join in conversations and classes to help uncover their own belief systems. The sharing of ideas spills over to church services, where the room is filled with conversation.

"We ring a bell to shut everyone up," said parishioner Marie Clark.

The UUs were adamant the different viewpoints didn't create conflicts between members.

"In my church experience, this is the least confrontational church I've ever been in," said Evans.

The exposure to other viewpoints makes UUs more open-minded, she said. "You say, 'Wow, I don't believe that,' but you like that person."

"Sometimes my husband and I go home and we'll say, 'I really don't agree with this,'" said Clark. "You might not agree with it, but it gets you thinking."

Same-sex marriage

One viewpoint that is welcomed at the church but not universally shared in other religions is same-sex marriage. Because UUs accept believers of all types, they reject the idea of preventing two people from marrying.

Evans received news coverage last summer when she officiated at the first same-sex marriage in Northumberland County. She credited the open-mindedness of UUs to allowing her to step up and perform the services when other religious leaders refused.

"Because we are a welcoming and affirming church, I didn't have to call anyone and ask for permission," she said. "These were congregational weddings where everyone was there and excited."

Started locally with Priestley

Even though the idea of all belief systems worshipping together may seem radical, Unitarian Universalism isn't a new concept. Joseph Priestley brought Unitarian Universalism to Northumberland County and constructed the Priestley Chapel, which still stands at 380 Front St.. The original parish declined until ceasing worship altogether in the early 1900s.

A parish re-formed in 1989 under the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Susquehanna Valley, meeting with just 12 people in the home of a member. That number increased steadily, and the parish moved back into the Priestley Chapel in 1992.

Membership kept growing, and soon the parish needed to find a new location. Today, the UUs occupy space in a commercial building at 265 Point Township Drive. The Priestley Chapel Group takes care of the chapel and the Priestley House.

Helping others

The parish boasts more than 125 members, with 55 children registered for Sunday school.

"We have some people who were looking for a religious community but they weren't necessarily traditional believers," said Carl Askew. The Sunday school class is especially popular because it welcomes children of a variety of backgrounds. Parents who come from conflicting religious backgrounds have said they found the Sunday school class a good compromise, said Clark.

"The marriage of two different religious - that's a big draw," she said.

By bringing people together, Evans said the congregation has been able to make great contributions to charity. In 2012, the parish sent more than $25,000 in supplies to Hurricane Sandy victims. They also choose one charity each quarter to receive the loose money from the collection plate.

"Working together on these projects is when they really get to know each other," said Evans.

The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Susquehanna Valley meets at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. All are welcome to attend.

LUKE FIDLER - Officers from several police departments conducted a DUI checkpoint on Route 61 Friday night in Coal Township, leading to the arrest of at least one driver suspected of being intoxicated.

Citations for driving with a suspended driver's license and for expired registration were issued to several drivers during the checkpoint on both the north and south lanes at the former Sam Bressi Motors, just east of the Shamokin-Coal Township line.

The North Central Highway Safety Network's Regional DUI Enforcement Group and the Coal Township Police Department announced they were planing to conduct roving patrols and sobriety checkpoints this weekend as a way to deter drunk driving.

Flares and signs that warned drivers of a checkpoint were placed ahead of where officers from Coal Township, Shamokin, Mount Carmel Township, Danville, Riverside, Ralpho Township and Mahoning Township were stopping vehicles in an illuminated area of the highway. An officer on the driver's side of the highway asked for a driver's licenses, and another officer on the passenger side would peer into the windows and look at the license plates.

Drivers suspected of being intoxicated were ordered out of their vehicle and escorted by another officer to a gravel lot next to the checkpoint. Drivers would undergo a field sobriety test, which is a series of tests used to obtain indicators of impairment and to establish probable cause for arrest. Drivers who appeared to fail the tests were then administrated a breathalyzer.

One female, who was under the age of 21, was arrested on suspicion of DUI after undergoing a field sobriety test and blowing into a breathalyzer. Following her arrest, several of her passengers were also administered a breathalyzer.

Dave Everly, a regional coordinator for the North Central Highway Safety Network's Regional DUI Enforcement Group, said a 240-pound man needs only one serving of alcohol to have a blood alcohol content of .02, the legal limit for drivers under the age of 21.

"There have been 40 DUI arrests on Route 61 in Coal Township since 2011," said Coal Township Cpl. Terry Ketchem.

The roving patrols and checkpoints are funded through PennDOT and the National Highway Safety Administration.

Travelers are reminded to report drunk drivers by dialing 911. To report underage drinking, call 1-888-under-21.

Marriage licenses

Eric Francis Rebuck to Christina Marie Livering, both of 227 Dogwood Road, Shamokin. Issued Aug. 13.

Ryan Michael Campbell to Brittany Alexandra Mayton, both of 1418 W. Lynn St., Coal Township. Issued Aug. 14.

Korey Anthony Yost to Beth A. Troup, both of 1264 Chestnut St., Kulpmont. To be issued Aug. 17.

David Allen Savitski Jr. to Roxann Debra Ulceski, both of 42 N. Walnut St., Mount Carmel. To be issued Aug. 17.

Danny Lamar Rebuck Jr., of 3668 Upper Road, Shamokin, to Kimberly Ann Ulrich, of 912 W. Willow St., Coal Township. To be issued Aug. 17.

Barry Paul Rohrer to Jennifer Kay Keller, both of 142 S. Lily Road, Paxinos. To be issued Aug. 17.

Marshall Lee Koppenhaver to Carolyn Susan Hepworth, both of 473 State Route 225, Dalmatia. To be issued Aug. 17.

Divorces

Katrina Pavelko from Thomas A. Pavelko, both of 218 E. Cameron St., Shamokin. Married May 2, 2000.

Kenneth R. Daubert, 322 E. Sunbury St., Apt. 1, Shamokin, from Bridget M. Daubert, 651 Scott St., Kulpmont. Married Feb. 26, 1991.

Crystal J. Guss, 322 E. Sunbury St., Apt. 1, Shamokin, from Kenneth J. Guss, 1143 Pulaski Ave., Coal Township. Married Oct. 29, 2010.

Maureen Shepard from John Shepard, both of 51 Winding Way, Catawissa. Married Sept. 28, 1985.

Property transfers

Margaret Valeiko (individually and trustee), Thomas C. Valeiko, Michaelle Valeiko, Michelle Legrand (individually and trustee) and Richard Legrand to Margaret Valeiko, property in Kulpmont, $1.

Margaret Valeiko, Thomas C. Valeiko and Kevin P. Valeiko to Margaret Valeiko, property in Kulpmont, $1.

Henry Thomas Jones to Wayne B. Jones, property in Kulpmont, $1.

Arthur Rick Harner and Patricia A. Harner to Timothy E. Geiswite, property in Shamokin, $35,000.

Margaret Valeiko (by agent) to Thomas aka Thomas C. Valeiko (agent) to John C. Mattis and Colleen M. Inacio, property in Kulpmont, $35,000.

Diane Sosnoski and John Sosnoski to Matthew Lauro and Taylor Jeremiah, property in Coal Township, $15,000.

Bradley S. Derr and Debra M. Derr to Bradley S. Derr and Debra M. Derr, property in Rush Township, $1.

Carole Smith, Carole Lubeskie and Gregory Lubeskie to Joseph A. Bozza and Alexandria M. Bozza, property in Mount Carmel, $25,000.

John J. Lasko and Nancy A. Lasko to Jason J. Lasko, property in Mount Carmel, $1.,

William J. Schultz Sr. to Ronald E. Ryan and Joan A. Ryan, property in Mount Carmel, $1,400.

William J. Schultz Sr. to William J. Schultz Jr., property in Mount Carmel, $1.

Denise Wheary to James S. Lesko and Kelly Ann Lesko, property in Kulpmont, $53,500.

Loretta Bodnar, Daniel G. Bodnar, Daniel M. Bodnar and Sara Bodnar to Oliver Y. Fesniak, property in Mount Carmel, $24,000.

Diane M. Dallabrida (executrix) and Irene Theresa aka Irene T. Mirarchi estate to Jeremy R. Berkheiser and Heidi S. Segura, property in Kulpmont, $28,000.

Franklin J. Beaver estate to Perry F. Beaver, property in Lower Mahanoy Township, $10,000.

Julie Bednar to Patricia A. Bednar, property in Coal Township, $1.

Jack L. Thorton to Dolores E. Jeffries and Brian E. Leyba, property in Kulpmont, $8,000.

Northumberland County Tax Claim Bureau and Bruce Opra to Mount Carmel Township, property in Mount Carmel Township, $1.

Christine M. Holda, Christie M. Smink and Wade J. Smink to Christine M. Smink, property in Kulpmont, $1.

Quisqueya Reynoso to Rafat A. Nizami, property in Shamokin, $1,680.

Quisqueya Reynoso to Berl Steinberg, property in Coal Township, $1,575.

Gail A. Ossman and Thoams E. Ossman to Troy Walter, property in Coal Township, $800.

Jessica M. Trader to Anna Shingara, property in Zerbe Township, $55,500.

SUNBURY - This time of year makes Matt Reader a little giddy, or as he calls it, "like a kid at Christmas."

"It's my favorite time of the year," Reeder says of the Northumberland County Fair. "I love coming and doing everything here, seeing the kids laugh and carry on and have fun."

It is a little hard to believe that 2015 marks the 16th year for the Northumberland County Fair, first held at the All Home Days grounds in Elysburg before eventually moving to the Sunbury Armory and finally at their current home at the Tall Cedars Grove, Sunbury.

Reader, the fair's president for the second year, says the move has been beneficial for them.

"We were constrained with what we could do at the armory, but here we have the freedom to do more," Reeder said.

Last year, a concessionaire brought a selection of games to the fair and will be bringing many more this time around.

"We have a great amount of foot traffic during the week, and then everyone comes back on Saturday for the fireworks display," Reader said, noting the move had brought them a surge in attendance.

"The fireworks bring people back to the fair."

Of course, one thing that hasn't changed is the traditional events at the fair. In addition to entrants having their fruits, vegetables, crafts and baked goods judged, the annual farmers triathlon will return. This consists of three events, the pedal tractor pull, the hay bale stacking and throwing competitions. This year, there are two divisions for the triathlon, youth under 14 and the open division.

"We will actually have an adult pedal tractor this year. Someone volunteered and specially built one for the fair, along with the sled," the president said.

The fair will open with a garden tractor pull competition, starting at 7 p.m. Wednesday.

"The competition will be heated for that one, so we welcome everyone to check that out," the president said.

With entertainment every night and tons of things to see and do, Reader hopes that everyone will come to check out the fair.

"That is our biggest problem," he said. "There are so many people that don't even know that there is a Northumberland County Fair, but we provide a place for Northumberland County 4-H'ers to show off their livestock and produce they've grown."

With their new location, and an extra day, Reader and the rest of the staff of the Northumberland County Fair are ready to welcome everyone to a "Harvest of Fun," the theme of this year's fair.

"Here at the Tall Cedars Grove, we have the room to have the animals here all week. We are the only county fair with free parking and free admission. People come here every day to socialize and relax and enjoy themselves, so come and do just that," Reader said.

The fair runs from 3 to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, from 3 to 10 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday. More information on the fair can be found at its website at www.northumberlandcountyfair.com, or through its Facebook page. 2015 Northumberland County Fair

Wednesday, Aug. 19

Fair open 3 to 9 p.m.

3 to 5 p.m. - Performance by Jim the Singing Mailman.

7 p.m. - Garden tractor pull.

6 to 8 p.m. - Performance by Van Wagner.

Thursday, Aug. 20

Fair open 3 to 9 p.m.

1 p.m. - Judging of fruit, flowers, vegetables and baked goods.

3 p.m. - Farm animal educational exhibit opens for the duration of the fair.

3 to 5 p.m. - Performance by Jay Smar.

6 to 7 p.m. and 8 to 9 p.m. - Performance by Randall-Ginley Band.

7 p.m. - Sale of baked goods.

7 to 8 p.m. - Speech demonstrations, illustrated talks and public speaking by youth under 19.

Friday Aug. 21

Fair open 3 to 10 p.m.

1 p.m. - Judging of remainder of entries.

3 to 5 p.m. - Performance by K.J. Reimensnyder-Wagner.

5 p.m. - Beef cattle show.

6 p.m. - Pet parade registration.

6 to 7 p.m. and 8 to 9 p.m. - Performances by the Mid-Life Cowboys Band.

6:30 p.m. - Pet costume contest and parade.

7 p.m. - Pedal tractor pull (part of farmer's triathlon).

Running until dark - Bale throwing and bale stacking (part of farmer's triathlon).

Saturday, Aug. 22

Fair open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Rabbit and guinea pig show, horse show riding demonstration and competitions all day.

10 a.m. - Sheep and market goat show.

Noon - ADGA sanctioned dairy goat show with adult showmanship following.

Noon to 2 p.m. - Performance by Tim Latshaw.

2 to 5 p.m. - Area high school band competition.

5 p.m. - Bale throwing and bale stacking (part of farmer's triathlon.)

6 to 9 p.m. - Performance by The Frank Wicher Band.

9 p.m. approximately - Fireworks display.

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

John Gembic III, Shamokin

- Brett N. Russell, of Sunbury, to Emily Kirby and Derrick Yohe, of Shamokin, for $4,989.73, filed Aug. 14. No date scheduled for hearing

- Beatrice Gruneberg, against Louis Baez and Andrea Baez, all of Coal Township, for $1,829.87, filed Aug. 10. Hearing scheduled for Aug. 24.

- David J. Fisher, of Middleburg, awarded $4,838.75 in rent and court costs Aug. 10 from Caleb and Susan Robinson, of Shamokin.

Hugh A. Jones, Mount Carmel

- Janet Schoppy, of Danville, against Claire Lichty, of Mount Carmel, for $950, filed Aug. 11. Hearing scheduled for Aug. 25.

- Costello Realty, Inc. against Barbara Miller, both of Mount Carmel, for $1,117, filed Aug. 25.

- Kerry Blum, of Martins Creek, against Aaron Wegrzynowicz, of Mount Carmel, for $1,700, filed Aug. 14. Hearing scheduled for Aug. 27.

- Kristan N. Kessler, of Elysburg, awarded $3,132.32 in rent and court costs Aug. 11 from Michelle L. Revinski, of Mount Carmel.

- Eugene Eister, of Kulpmont, awarded $680 in rent and court costs Aug. 11, from Idalis Sandoval, of Kulpmont.

SHAMOKIN - The Rev. Ed Costello recalled his mother telling him that he was going to be an altar server for a visiting Franciscan friar at a 5:30 a.m. Mass.

"Only later did I realize that it must have been an act of God that was showing his sense of humor," Costello said.

In 1955, Costello, a native of Mahanoy City, took his vows to join the Franciscan order. On Sunday, the "senior friar of residence" at Mother Cabrini Church renewed his vows during a liturgy at the church.

Dressed in his brown robe with vestments over the top, Costello stood with the church's pastor, The Rev. Martin Kobos, to conduct the vows.

"Father Ed vowed his life for the call of God," Kobos said during his homily. "There have been good times and bad, no doubt, in his ministry, but the Eucharist always nourished him, like it nourishes us today and every day we accept the living bread."

Costello has been stationed at the Mother Cabrini Friary for the last two years and has been an ordained priest for 54 of those 60 years. During his time of service, he has served in a variety of ministries, including parish work, hospital and senior residence chaplaincies, being an instructor in high school and at the Franciscan seminary, and as a pilgrim guide at the basilica in Assisi, Italy, where St. Francis is buried.

In a writing included in Sunday's church bulletin, Costello told of that chance meeting at the 5:30 a.m. Mass and how it changed him.

"I became really impressed by the priest, his obvious love for God in his celebration of the Mass, and his kindness and gentleness to all who approached him," the reverend wrote. "It was my association with him that sparked my vocation to the Franciscan way of life."

Recent health challenges have kept Costello from being able to celebrate weekend Masses at Mother Cabrini more frequently, but he is happy to be a "Coal Cracker" once again and in Shamokin, serving the Lord.

"The 60 years have been filled with service to God and his people as a student, teacher, hospital chaplain and parish priest," Costello wrote. "It has been an active and satisfying life."

Members of the Knights Columbus Fourth Degree honor guard led the priests into the church for Sunday's services and Kobos remarked that Costello's four sisters came to Shamokin to help him celebrate the occasion.

Following the service, refreshments were served in the church hall.

Costello wasn't the only one to renew his vows during the Sunday service at Mother Cabrini, as Tom and June O'Brien celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary by renewing their wedding vows as part of the Mass.

MOUNT CARMEL - Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church announced their July memorials.

Frances Angelo from Mr. and Mrs. Richard Di Rienzo.

Mary Rita Socoloski from Jum and Mary Rowland.

John Sonoski (fourth anniversary) from Patsy Kline and friend "Dot."

Margaret McGinley (birthday) from a friend.

Helen Nolter (birthday) from a friend.

Frank Hynoski Sr. from Frank Hynoski Jr.

Frank Rogutski from Sylvia Hynoski.

Anna Ruginis from Steve and Carol Krehel and Mary Rudisill.

Melania and Anna Krehel from George and Mary Kroutch.

Diane White and Sis Zuech from George and Mary Kroutch.

Aloysius Callahan (godfather's birthday) from Anna Marie Devine and family.

Joseph, Catherine, Len, Dot, Bob and Day Bresadola from Patricia Bresadola.

Robert Glowatski from Dan and Nancy Glowatski.

In honor of St. Matha Feast for Favor from Anon.

John Hartenstein from Anon.

John "Jack" Callahan from Rita Bierowski.

BERWICK - A man was shot by police Saturday night in Berwick after he allegedly failed to drop a knife with which he was chasing another man.

The victim, Edwin Ramos Ramirez, underwent surgery overnight and is listed in critical condition at Geisinger Medical Center Sunday afternoon.

State police at Bloomsburg say a Berwick police patrolman was the officer that fired the shot, hitting Ramirez in the shoulder in the 11 p.m. shooting. The investigation into the incident is continuing.

According to state police, the Berwick officer responded to a report of a fight involving a weapon at 1335 Spring Garden Avenue, Berwick. When local officers arrived on scene they observed a male on the porch with a stick and another male, Ramirez, in the doorway with a knife.

The officer, not identified by police, gave verbal commands for the combatants to drop their weapons. The male with the stick did while Ramirez did not, and began to chase the other male off the porch with the knife raised, coming within a few feet of the other person.

The patrolman continued to command Ramirez to drop the knife, and when the suspect refused, the officer discharged his weapon, shooting Ramirez in the shoulder.

State police say two additional Berwick Police officers arrived on the scene as the shooting took place and were witness to it.

The suspect was given medical attention and transported to Berwick Hospital first before being taken to Geisinger for surgery.