Show and tell program planned

ASHLAND - The Ashland Area Historic Preservation Society will hold a "show and tell" at its next meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday at its headquarters, 316-318 Centre St.

Bring an item of historical interest. The meeting will also include election of officers. Light refreshments will be served. Everyone is welcome.

Wildlife presentation set for today

PAXINOS - A free presentation on wildlife, "Right Place: Right Time," will be given at 5 p.m. today at St. Peter's United Church of Christ at Blue Church and Airport roads.

Featured guest will be Ray Roth and his 188-inch Kansas whitetail, plus other trophy deer. The Rev. Paul Gurba, a triple-trophy hunter and wildlife photographer of 27 years, will present a PowerPoint display of more than 300 slides and video clips of turkey, bear and trophy buck. Ray Petro, of Monster Rack Adventures, will be on hand with his own trophy display.

A spaghetti dinner will be served at the conclusion of the program. Donations are greatly appreciated. The indoor event will be held regardless of weather.

Wednesday will be Act 80 day

COAL TOWNSHIP - Wednesday will be an Act 80 Day with early dismissal for Shamokin Area students. The elementary school will dismiss classes at 12:45 p.m. and the middle/high school will dismiss at 12:18 p.m. K-4 PM students will have classes.

HARRISBURG - Diocese of Harrisburg Bishop Joseph P. McFadden celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving for the ministry of Pope Benedict XVI on Friday, the first of a number of activities related to the resignation the pope and the election of his successor.

Throughout the Diocese of Harrisburg, priests will include special prayer intentions for the pope and his successor at all Masses.

"All during this period Catholics are being asked to say devotional prayers of every sort, especially the Holy Rosary," said a statement from the diocese. "These should be offered for Pope Benedict, the Cardinal electors and the future pope. The practice of praying the Our Father, the Hail Mary and the Glory be to the Father, outside the celebration of Mass, for the intentions of the Holy Father is encouraged, especially for his health and well-being. Prayers explicitly for the pope are also encouraged."

During the final days of Pope Benedict XVI's reign as Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Church, parishes and other institutions within the Diocese of Harrisburg are asked to set aside the three days prior to the Holy Father's time of renunciation (February 26, 27, 28) to celebrate the Mass for the pope.

All levels of educational institutions and other institutions within the Diocese of Harrisburg are being encouraged to arrange, in addition to a Mass, if possible, occasions for the Liturgy of the Hours or a Liturgy of the Word or Eucharistic Exposition or devotional prayer to pray for Pope Benedict XVI. It is hoped that this will be done in the three days prior to the Holy Father's time of renunciation.

During the Sede Vacante, or time of a vacant seat when there is no pope, the following is being planned at St. Patrick Cathedral, Harrisburg. On Tuesday, March 12, Bishop McFadden will offer the noon Mass for the election of a new pope. All are welcome to this Mass. Parishes and other institutions within the Diocese are asked to select a suitable occasion soon after March 1, other than a Sunday of Lent, to celebrate the Mass for the election of a new pope.

Canon lawyers Dr. Carol L. Houghton and Msgr. William J. King will offer a 40-minute presentation on the norms and procedures for the election of a pope at 10 a.m. Sunday at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Upper Allen Township, near Mechanicsburg. Houghton, a tribunal judge and chancellor of the diocese, and adjunct professor of canon law at Mount Saint Mary's Seminary in Emmittsburg, and King, pastor St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish and adjunct professor of canon law at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., will review the canon law norms governing the election of the Roman pontiff.

For directions, see the parish website at steas.net or call the parish office at 717-697-2614. The public is welcome.

Saint Catherine Laboure Parish, 4000 Derry St., Harrisburg, will have two large scrolls available in the narthex of the church this weekend for parishioners to sign with their greetings, support and prayers for the Holy Father. There will be two special Masses offered for the Holy Father: Wednesday, February 27 at 5:30 p.m. and Thursday, February 28 at 9:00 a.m. with the school children. The scrolls containing the signatures will be blessed at the Mass on February 28. It will then be sent to the Vatican for the Holy Father.

SHAMOKIN - A Shamokin woman has been charged with filing false reports to police following an accident involving a rental car on Feb. 16.

Jennifer Leonard, 43, of 219 S. Shamokin St., was charged Thursday by Shamokin City Police Patrolman Raymond Siko II with making false reports to incriminate another person and making false reports.

Siko said Leonard initially told police the car was stolen, even though she knew her husband, Nathan P. Leonard, 40, had taken it. The officer said Jennifer Leonard reportedly "panicked" after realizing her husband, who has a suspended license, was driving the car.

About five minutes after the car was reported stolen, Nathan Leonard crashed it along Route 2026 between Coal Run and Sagon, but was able to free himself from the wreckage despite suffering head, arm and leg injuries, police said.

A passing motorist gave Nathan Leonard a ride to Marion Heights, where he told the driver to drop him off. Upon reaching the borough, police said Leonard borrowed a cell phone from a concerned citizen and called his wife to pick him up.

He said his wife later drove him to a hospital in Harrisburg, where he underwent emergency room treatment for multiple serious injuries before returning to Shamokin, police said.

At first, Jennifer Leonard denied lying about the stolen car, but later admitted in an interview with police that her initial story was a hoax.

During an interview with Siko Wednesday morning, Nathan Leonard, who admitted using the car in the past, said he took the car at about 12:45 p.m. Saturday and stopped at M&T Bank to withdraw $200. He then drove along Route 61 before turning onto Route 2026. Leonard said he lost control of the car while attempting to throw out a cigarette. Leonard said he recalled the car hitting a pole, causing him to be thrown against the front window. Leonard said he crawled up an embankment and was offered a ride by an elderly man, who dropped him off near the Marion Heights ballfield.

Siko said an employee from State Farm Insurance Company told him Wednesday Jennifer Leonard called the insurance company and initially reported the vehicle was stolen. She called back and claimed her brother-in-law took the vehicle and wrecked it.

Siko said the true facts surrounding the incident were provided to the insurance company and EZ Rent A Car.

The charges against Jennifer Leonard were filed with Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III, of Shamokin. Coal Township Police are currently investigating the accident and are expected to file charges against Nathan Leonard in the near future.

"You brought shame to my house."

That certainly was a novel conversation starter when I picked up the phone at my desk in the newsroom. Since the caller spoke in heavily accented English, I had to ask her to repeat her opening line. Sure enough; it was the same: "You brought shame to my house."

It turned out that one of the town's ne'er-do-wells gave this poor lady's address when he was arrested and that information appeared in the Police Blotter. It was not uncommon for people being arrested to give a false address.

This knowledge did not make the caller feel any better. She had probably lived there for seven or eight decades, and no one in her family had ever been in trouble with the law. Now, her house itself bore the disgrace. We ran a correction and we changed the newspaper policy to not list the house number in a police report.

I still don't think you can bring shame to a particular address, but I can see the lady's point. What we do can reflect favorably or unfavorably on our family, as well as ourselves. It's relative. Most of us are proud of our family name and live lives that do not harm it. Others not only don't care; they go on daytime talk shows and boast of their misdeeds.

The same holds true for people who consider themselves devout followers of God. They strive very hard not to smear God's name by their actions.

They seek God's grace and not disgrace. If successful, they do not bring shame to their Father's house. They earn glory.

+++

Live to give glory to God.

All Saints

All Saints Evangelical Lutheran Church, 12th and Scott streets, Kulpmont.

Pastor - The Rev. Alfred J. Bashore.

Worship service with word and sacrament - 9 a.m.

Participants - Marsha Karnes, communion assistant, acolyte and altar guild.

Assumption BVM

Assumption BVM 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. Sorokousty services immediately following.

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., noon.

Augustaville Wesleyan

Augustaville Wesleyan Church, 2556 State Route 890, Paxinos.

Pastor - Greg Clendaniel.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:40 a.m.

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, adult Bible study, Faith Weaver Friends and youth Bible bowl, 7 p.m.

Bethany Bible

Bethany Bible Fellowship Church, 654 Wilburton Road, Mount Carmel.

Pastor - Philip Norris.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:45 a.m.

Message - "The Eternal State."

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

Message - "Fulfilled Prophecy."

Activities - Sunday, Senior Saints Lunch Out at OIP Shamokin, 1 p.m., choir practice, 7:15 p.m.; Wednesday, children and youth programs, 6:30 p.m., adult prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m.; Saturday, men's conference, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., call 339-4693 to register.

Bethany EC

Bethany EC Church, 1238 Market St., Ashland.

Pastor - Mark Brownson.

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

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Bethany Bible club, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., kindergarten through sixth grade, prayer meeting, weekly, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; free clothing closet, every first and third Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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 - Ted and Arlene Erdman.

Nursery - Jen Christian and Lindsay Schaffer. (10:30 a.m.).

Junior church - Opal Lenig and Audrey Ditty (10:30 a.m.).

Evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Tuesday, prayer worship, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, 6 p.m., King's Kids, 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, ladies Bible study, 6:30 p.m.

Calvary Bible

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

Pastor - Ferdie Madara.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship service - 10:35 a.m. Message by Pastor Madara. Praise team service.

AWANA children's group and youth group - 5:45 p.m.

Evening prayer service - 6 p.m.

­Christ's Reformed UCC

Christ's Reformed UCC, Helfenstein.

Pastor - Jerry Schlegel.

Worship - 10:15 a.m.

Second Sunday in Lent.

Scripture - John 2:1-11.

Message - "The Road to Cana."

Participant - Jeff Haas, organist; Dorene Choffel, worship assistant.

Church of Our Lady

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

Pastor - The Rev. Francis J. Karwacki.

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

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

Confessions - Daily before 8 a.m. Mass; Saturday, 3 to 4 p.m.

Church of Nazarene

Church of the Nazarene, Route 901, Lavelle.

Sunday - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday school classes for all ages - 11 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.

Praise singing - 10:10 a.m.

Worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Divine Redeemer

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

Pastor - The Rev. John A. Szada Jr.

Weekday Masses - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 7 a.m.; Saturday at 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).

Holy hour - First Friday of the month, 3 to 4 p.m.

Confessions - Saturday, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.; after morning novena Thursday, during First Friday Holy Hour or any time by appointment.

Novenas - Monday, Miraculous Medal novena after morning Mass; Thursday, 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. Chad Froelich.

Morning worship services - 8 and 10:30 a.m. The Rev. Stan Sanger.

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

Kids' Konnection - 6 to 7:30 p.m. Ages 4 to 11.

Activities ­- Wednesday, Collide youth group with Pastor Froelich, 6:45 to 8:15 p.m., adult Bible study/prayer, 7 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., with nursery provided.

Pastor Young will preach part five of an eight-part "Winter Series on Stewardship." Sunday's title, "Spiritual Gifts."

Scripture - I Corinthians 12: 4-11.

Message - "God Meets Our Needs in All Circumstances."

Musicians - Debbie Cecco, organist; Eileen Reigel, pianist; contemporary praise group.

Activities - Sunday, junior high youth group, 4 to 6 p.m., senior high youth group, 6 to 8 p.m.; Wednesday, choir practice, 6:30 p.m., bell choir practice, 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, women's prayer group, 6:30 p.m., sessions meeting, 6:30 p.m.; Friday, Breakfast with Jesus, 8:30 a.m.

Elysburg UMC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Michelle Beissel.

Morning worship - 9 a.m. Nursery care provided for children up to four years of age. Children's Sunday school during worship. Coffee fellowship following worship; adult Sunday School, 10:15 a.m.

Participants - Richard Swank, head usher; Carole Swank, scripture reader; George and Nancy Nesbitt, greeters; Greg Rishel, acolyte; Lynne Homiak, pianist; Marilyn Crowl, shepherding; Nan Weller, choir director.

Activities - Monday, PPRC meeting, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Circle of Prayer, 10 a.m., Rotary, 6 p.m.; Wednesday. Lenten service at Trevorton UMC, 7 p.m.

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 the 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, 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 worship - 6 p.m.

Organist - Judith Pensyl.

Activities - Wednesday, choir rehearsal, 6 p.m., prayer, praise and testimony, Bible study, 7 p.m.

First Baptist, Trevorton

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

Pastor - Dan Conklin.

Associate pastor - Andy York.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:40 a.m.

Evening worship - 6 p.m.

Activities - Sunday, youth group, 5:45 p.m., choir practice, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, AWANA, 6:30 p.m., prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m.

First Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church, Sunbury and Liberty streets, Shamokin.

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Guest speaker - Ron Marcheskie.

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

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, Mt. Carmel

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

Pastor - The Rev. Susan J. Roehs.

Worship service - 9:45 a.m.

Sunday school - 10 a.m.

Sermon - "A Message from the Gideons," by Timothy Kniss.

Participants - Sharon Styer, organist; Jim Weissinger, head usher; Kevin Styer, sound technician; Linda Gula, liturgist; Olivia Bellve, acolyte; Pastor Susan, children's time; Sherry Brosius, counter.

Activities - Today, youth group will meet for fun, food and fellowship, 6 p.m. "Sundaes on Saturday Night." All youth welcome, bring a friend; Monday, finance committee, 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Brownie troop, 6:30 p.m., Al-Anon, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, mid-Lenten service at Our Lady's Church, 6 p.m., in social hall, refreshments before the service.

First UMC, Shamokin

First United Methodist Church, Sunbury Street, Shamokin.

Pastor - Zachary Hopple.

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

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Susan Shoop, liturgist; Maude Harrhy and Arlene Seedor, greeters.

Activities - Monday, Bible study in the parlor, 6 p.m.

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 school, adult Bible study and fellowship - 9:30 a.m.

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m.

Evening worship, youth group and Discovery Kids - 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Bible study and prayer - 6:45 p.m.

Nursery child care is provided for all Sunday services.

Participants - Judd Seger, Tim Blue, Bill Swank and Jim Zimmerman, ushers; Bill Swank, Bible reading and prayer; praise team; Cathy Klinger, music director, pianist and vocalist; Rob Klinger, drums; Marcy Donmoyer, flute; Emma Donmoyer, keyboard; Edwin Karns, Donna Blue, Diane Seger, Karen Graboski, Lori Langelli, Sandy Thomas and Ed Begis, vocalists; Gary Spotts, sound system; Joe Long, camera; Steve Carpenter, computer system.

Activities - Sunday. Easter choir rehearsal begins; March 7, men's Bible study; March 10, guest speaker Mitch Triestman; March 12, business meeting; March 13, ladies fellowship; March 14, men's prayer breakfast.

Grace Evangelical

Grace Evangelical Independent Church, Locustdale.

Pastor - The Rev. Rose M. Marquardt.

Sunday school - 9:45 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Children's Sunday school - 11 a.m.

Grace Lutheran

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

Pastor - The Rev. David M. Byerly.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Service of the Word and Sacrament - 10:15 a.m.

Participants - Shelley Faust, worship assistant; Ethan Tharp, acolyte; Eric Joraskie, crucifer; Mr. and Mrs. William Hoffa, communion bearers; Judy Shade and Jeanne Romanic, altar care; Paula Hardin, nursery; Jeannie Hoffa, Tonia Adams, Beverly Deitz, Fran Hand, Nancy Joraskie, Trev Madison, Jeanne Romanic and Kimberly Tharp, ushers; Walter Boyer, organist; Charlene Pell, choir director, and Shelley Faust, cantor.

Activities - Monday, Brownies, 5 p.m.; Tuesday, property committee, 7 p.m.; Wednesday, community Lenten soup and sandwich, Grace Lutheran Church, 6 p.m.

Grace Lutheran

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

Interim pastor - The Rev. Joan Brown.

Service with Communion - 10:45 a.m. The Second Sunday in Lent.

Guest speaker - Jodi Ellis.

Participants, Linda Rubendall, organist; Zachary Hunter, lector; Robert and William Brass, ushers; Charles Barnes, bell ringer and sexton; Judy Barnes, secretary.

Services for February will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, Mount Carmel.

Next Sunday's services will be held at St. Matthew's Slovak Lutheran Church, and it will be Food Pantry Sunday.

Grace UCC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Joan A. Brown.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Participants - Bryan Lapinski, organist; Aurora Froutz, acolyte; Don Hildenbrand and Carol Tarlecki, ushers.

Activities - Monday, confirmation class, 3:30 p.m.

Harvest Worship

Harvest Worship Ministries, 2079 Upper Road, West Cameron Township, 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.

Worship service, 10 a.m., clubhouse. Casual dress welcome.

Himmel's Church

Himmel's Church, 1941 Schwaben Creek Road, Rebuck, 425-2200.

Pastor - Pastor Jane H. Compton.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:15 a.m.

Communion is celebrated the first Sunday of every month.

Holy Angels

Holy Angels Church, 855 Scott St., Kulpmont.

Pastor - The Rev. Andrew Stahmer.

Confessions - Saturday, 4 to 5 p.m.

Weekday Masses - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m., Thursday, 6:30 p.m.

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

Activities - Sunday, PREP Classes, grade 6, 7 and 8, at 9 a.m.; Monday, PREP classes for grades 1 to 5 at 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday, bingo at Holy Angels Activity Center, doors open at 4:30 p.m., games begin at 6:15 p.m.; Wednesday, adult choir practice, 7 p.m.; Thursday, First Penance for students of the First Communion Class, 7:15 p.m.; Friday, Stations of the Cross, 2 and 7 p.m. fish dinner at Holy Angels Activity Center, 4 to 6 p.m.

Holy Trinity

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

Interim rector - The Rev. Father Kimberly Brooks.

Celebrant - The Rev. Deacon Richard A. Hazzard.

Worship - 10 a.m.

Handicapped accessible. Church school and nursery care.

Hope Community Church

Hope Community Church, non-denominational Bible church, 551 W. Fourth St. (formerly Lazarski's Banquet Hall), 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.

Irish Valley UMC

Irish Valley United Methodist Church, Irish Valley Road, Paxinos.

Pastor - Beverly Petrovich.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Johnston City UMC

Johnston City United Methodist Church, 200 Main St., Ranshaw.

Pastor - Dan Siddle.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Fellowship - 10 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Worship leaders - Barbara Cummings and Janette Nute, greeters; Rena Keegan and Jane Klembara, acolytes; June Ramer, Rena Keegan and Janette Nute, ushers; June Ramer, Jane Klembara, Rena Keegan and Myra Golden, liturgists; Jane Klembara, musician; Pastor Siddle, speaker.

Miller's Crossroads

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

Pastor - Michelle Beissel.

Sunday school - 9:30 a.m.

Worship service - 10:45 a.m.

Participants - Betsy Bradigan, organist.

Ministry of the Water and Spirit

Ministry of the Water and Spirit Church, 110 Church St., Locust Gap.

Pastor - James Bowers.

Sunday service - 10:30 a.m.

Mother Cabrini

Mother Cabrini Church, North Shamokin Street, Shamokin.

Pastor - The Rev. Martin Kobos, O.F.M. Conv.

Parochial vicar - The Rev. Adam Ziolkowski, O.F.M. Conv.

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.

Recitation of the Rosary - Monday through Friday, 5 p.m., in the church.

Activities - Sunday, Second Sunday in Lent, religious education classes, 10:15 a.m., Shamokin Street religious education building; Monday, Bingo in the church hall at 6:15 p.m., First Penance practice at 6 p.m. for all parish second-graders; Tuesday, Palm Sunday youth choir practice at 5:15 p.m., choir at 6 p.m.; Wednesday, RCIA at Pauline Center, 6:30 p.m.; Friday, First Friday visits to the scheduled homebound after 9 a.m., Stations of the Cross, 7 p.m.

Mountainside

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

Pastor - The Rev. Richard H. Earl.

LIFEQuest breakfast for all - 9 a.m.

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

Morning worship - 10:30 a.m.

Evening activities - 6 p.m.

Activities - Wednesday, SUPERKids for ages 5 to 11 and adult discipleship, 6:30 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 - Philippians 3: 17 - 4:1,, Luke 13: 31-35.

Sermon - "Citizens of Heaven."

Participants - Philip Maue, organist.

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.

Prelude - 10 to 10:30 a.m., flute solo.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m., with junior church and nursery available.

Evening praise and worship service - 7 p.m.

Handicap accessible, wheelchair available.

Activities - Prayer room open mornings; prayer, fellowship and coffee, Saturday mornings, 9 a.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., at First United Methodist Church; Thursday, free karate classes at church, children ages 5 to 12, 6:30 to 7:15 p.m.; 13 and up, 7:30 p.m.; Open Arms outreach, 6 to 8 p.m., first and third Fridays of the month.

Our Lady of Fatima

Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church of the East, 110 E. Avenue and Hickory Street, Mount Carmel.

Pastor - Most Rev. Ramzi R. Musallam, bishop.

Confessions - Before Mass and upon request.

Rosary - 2:30 p.m.

Holy Mass - 3 p.m.

Activities - Thrift shop open, Thursday, noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Our Lady of Hope

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

Pastor - The Rev. Adrian Gallagher, O.F.M. 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.

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. Alfred P. Sceski.

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, God's Grub for the community, 5 to 7 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, High Road Danville.

Interim pastor - Bruce Amme.

Sunday school - 9 a.m.

Worship service - 10:30 a.m.

Participants - Irene Rife, lector.

St. John's UCC

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

Pastor - The Rev. Dr. Robert B. Peiffer.

Sermon - "Strong and Tender."

Contemporary service - 9 a.m., Fellowship Hall. Special music by the worship band.

Coffee social hour - 10 a.m.

Sunday school - 10:10 a.m., with classes for children, teens and adults.

Traditional service - 11 a.m., Lark Chapel. Special music by the adult choir.

Participants - Margaret Morris, adult choir director and organist; Casey Henninger, pianist; Maggie Jasper, lay reader; Chloe Frost, acolyte.

Activities - Sunday, R2V team to meet following the 11 a.m. service, confirmation class, 1 p.m., pastor's study; Monday, Cub Scouts Blue and Gold banquet, 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday, prayer group, 1 p.m., church parlor, coupon swap, 6 p.m.; Wednesday, Boy Scouts, 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, Bible study group, 1 and 7 p.m., youth choir rehearsal, 4:30 p.m., worship band rehearsal, 6 p.m., Girl Scouts, 6:30 p.m., adult choir rehearsal, 7 p.m.; Saturday, prayer group, 9 a.m.

St. John's UMC

St. John's United Methodist Church, 1218 W. Arch St., Coal Township.

Pastor - The Rev. Karyn Fisher.

Lay leader - Paul Stehman.

Worship - 9 a.m. (nursery up to age 4).

Nursery available during worship for infants and toddlers. Children's church available during worship following the children's message for ages 4 to 11.

Sunday school for all ages - 10:15 a.m.

First Sundays, holy communion; Sundays, confirmation class, 10:30 a.m., junior choir practice, 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Bible study, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, choir practice, 8 a.m., women's book club, 9:15 a.m.; prayer chain, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

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.

Interim pastor - Bruce Amme.

Worship service - 9 a.m.

Participants - Judy Wary, lector.

St. Matthew Lutheran

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

Interim pastor - The Rev. Joan Brown.

Service with communion - 10:45 a.m. First Sunday in Lent.

Guest speaker - Jodi Ellis.

Services for February are held at Grace Lutheran Church.

Next Sunday's services will be held at St. Matthew's Slovak Lutheran Church. It will be Food Pantry Sunday.

St. Michael Orthodox

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

Pastor - The Very Rev. Michael H. Evans.

Divine Liturgy - 9 a.m.

St. Patrick

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

Pastor - The Rev. Adrian Gallagher, O.F.M., Conv.

Weekend Masses - 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 Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4663 Upper Road, Gowen City.

Pastor - The Rev. David Byerly.

Service of Word and Sacrament - 8:15 a.m.

Participants - Carol Shinskie, lector; Claire Bonshock and Stephanie Boyer, communion assistants; Steven Balonis, acolyte/crucifer; Walter Boyer, organist and choir director.

Activities - Wednesday, community Lenten soup and sandwich at Grace Lutheran Church, 6 p.m.

St. Paul's Reformed

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

Pastor - Jerry Schlegel.

Worship time - 9 a.m.

Second Sunday in Lent.

Scripture - John 2:1-11.

Message - "The Road to Cana."

Participants - Cliff Artman, organist.

Manna for the Many donations Sunday.

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 a.m. 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 Church, Aristes.

Interim pastor - The Rev. Joan Brown.

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

Guest speaker - Jodi Ellis.

Participants - Linda Rubendall, organist; Carol Buffington, choir director; Diane Wetzel, 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 Liturgy - 8 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

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

Lenten hours - 8 a.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Religious education classes are held Mondays from 6 to 7:15 p.m.

Activities - Monday, Stations of the Cross, 6 p.m., religious education classes, 6 to 7:15 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday, Divine Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 6 p.m.; Saturday, Sorokousty service immediately following 8 a.m. liturgy.

St. Peter's UCC

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

Pastor - Paul T. Gurba Jr.

Morning worship - 8:30 a.m.

Sermon - "Reacting to Temptation II."

Scripture - Mark 8:11-12a - "And the Pharisees came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign of heaven, tempting him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit and saith..."

Organist - Virginia Nefsky.

Activities - Today, special wildlife presentation and spaghetti dinner with featured speakers Ray Roth and Paul Gurba, 5 p.m.; Wednesday, Lenten service, 7 p.m.

St. Stephen's

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

Clergy - Rev. Frederic Stevenson.

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

Handicapped accessible.

Activities - Second and fourth Saturdays, 6:15 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.

Participants - Taylor Kashner, acolyte; Judie Zabawsky, lay leader; Carolyn Weaver, organist; Julie Updegrove, beginners class; Barbara Skrivanek, junior class; Dwayne Scicchitano, lighting/sound; Alice Elliott, John Foltz, Andrea Koch and Allison Wetzel, ushers; Mary Lou Sacona, greeters.

This is Food Pantry Sunday, Members are asked to bring non-perishable food items or household goods to be given to Manna for the Many, our local food pantry.

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

Activities - Today, gift card bingo, doors open at 12:30 p.m. Bingo starts at 2 p.m.; Sunday, making Easter eggs starting at 2 p.m.

Salvation Army

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.

Worship service - 11 a.m., with communion.

Bible study - 7 p.m.

Participants - Kathy Albright, station steward; Joseph Rodman, head usher; Benjamin Brudnicki and Alaina Glowatski, acolytes; Bryan Lapinski, organist; Jennifer Brudnicki and Kathy Albright, greeters of the month; Dr. Richard Albright, servant of the month; Linda Yost, nursery worker; Tammy Glowatski, children's church teacher.

A nursery is available for children birth to age five during the morning worship service. Children's church is provided for children over age five with a focus on lessons from the Bible.

Manna for the Many for the month is rice.

Activities - Wednesday, Lenten service at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, soup and sandwich at 6 p.m. with service to follow; March 4, trustee board meeting, 7 p.m.; March 6, Lenten service at St. John's UCC, soup and sandwich at 6 p.m. with service to follow; March 13, Lenten service here, soup and sandwich at 6 p.m. with service to follow; March 28, Maundy Thursday service with communion, 7 p.m.

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.

Evening service - 7 p.m.

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

Shamokin Seventh-Day Adventist

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

Pastor - John Peters.

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

Saturday worship - 11 a.m.

Activities - Tuesday, family Bible studies, 7 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 - 7 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.

Participant - Nancy Korenkiewicz, pianist, organist and choir director.

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

Trinity Evangelical

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

Pastor - Brian Betsworth.

Sunday school - 9:50 a.m.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Trinity Lutheran

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

Pastor - The Rev. David Hauck.

Worship service - 10 a.m.

Participants - Jon Hoover, lector and communion assistant; Mindy Deppen, supply organist; Mary and Syd Tharp, altar guild; Don Ponatoski, counter.

True Grace Bible Ministry

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.

Activities - Tuesday morning, Bible study and prayer service, 10:30 a.m. For information, call 648-9776.

Union Evangelical

Union Evangelical Free Church, Ashland/Locustdale.

Pastor - The Rev. Larry Coutlee.

Sunday school - 10 a.m. for all ages.`

Junior church available for ages 12 and under.

Morning worship - 11 a.m.

Informal evening service - 6 p.m.

Activities - Tuesday, Crossfire Youth meeting for boys and girls at Gordon Youth Center, 6 to 9 p.m.; third Tuesday of each month, community hot dog night, 6 to 8 p.m., all welcome, free hot dogs, chips, soda, coffee and juice; Wednesday, devotional and prayer meeting, 6:30 p.m.; Thursday, Fit for the Kingdom, 5:45 p.m., Crossfire Youth meeting for boys and girls at Ashland Youth Center, 6 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Crossfire youth meeting for boys and girls at Ashland Youth Center, 2 to 5 p.m.

United Presbyterian

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

Minister - The Rev. Ted Plott.

Worship service - 11 a.m.

Scripture - Psalm 27:4.

Message - "Our One Desire"

Participants - Dale Schimpf, organist; Deb Wydra, acolyte; Ellsworth George and Andrew Mekosh, ushers; Dorothy Snyder, 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 Primitive

Zion Primitive Methodist Church, 33 N. Market St., Mount Carmel.

Pastor - The Rev. David E. Wildoner.

Worship service - 9:30 a.m. with communion.

Participants - Elizabeth Broda, Stan Broda, Ken Angeli, Cy Kufu and Gene Leatherman.

All of February will be Souper Sundays. Bring a can of soup or other groceries for food pantry.

Activities - Today, Bible study, 10 a.m.; Wednesday, Lenten service at Our Lady of Mount Carmel church, 6 p.m.; March 24, Palm Sunday; March 28, Maundy Thursday service with communion, 5 p.m.; March 31, Easter Sunday.

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 - Rev. Betty Ford.

Sunday school - 10:30 a.m.

Worship - 11 a.m.

Activities - Wednesday, Bible study, 1 p.m.; first Tuesday of the month, United Methodist Women, 7 p.m.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following hearings took place Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh A. Jones. Defendants ordered to appear for plea court on Monday, March 25, in Northumberland County Court, Sunbury, can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Rochelle M. Stief, 48, of 117 E. Fourth St., Mount Carmel, waived charges of driving under the influence.

She was charged by Mount Carmel Borough Police Patrolman Jason Drumheller following a traffic stop at Avenue and Poplar Street at 4:33 a.m. Jan. 9.

n Charges of forgery, theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property were waived to court by Stacy Lynn Malkoski, 38, of 39 N. Locust St., Mount Carmel.

She was charged by Mount Carmel Township Police Patrolman Kelly Campbell following the investigation into a Nov. 19 theft of a check from a vehicle at Boyer's Food Market.

n Michael A. Filipczak, 49, of 147 Oak Lane, Mount Carmel, pleaded guilty to a charge of harassment, and was sentenced to pay fines and court costs totaling $455.50 by Jones.

He was charged by Mount Carmel Township Police Patrolman David Stamets Jr. following an incident at his residence on Feb. 15.

Charges of simple assault and disorderly conduct were withdrawn.

n Shawn A. Lutz, 25, of 240 S. Chestnut St., Shenandoah, waived charges of aggravated assault, simple assault, harassment and resisting arrest.

He was charged by Ralpho Township Police Patrolman Chris Dailey following an incident with police at Sheetz at 5:18 p.m. Feb. 17.

n Charges of possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia were waived to court by David J. Slaby, 21, of 1229 Poplar St., Kulpmont.

Mount Carmel Township Police Patrolman David Stamets Jr. filed the charges following a traffic stop on Oct. 27 in the area of Route 61 near the Strong Connector.

n Joshua M. Barwicki, 22, of 1138 Poplar St., Kulpmont, waived charges of driving under the influence, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and general lighting requirements.

He was charged by Mount Carmel Township Police Patrolman David Stamets Jr. following a traffic stop on Oct. 27 in the area of Route 61 near the Strong Connector.

HARRISBURG - State Growing Greener grants will allow the Northumberland and Montour County conservation districts to undertake five projects to abate stream bank erosion and control manure runoff at local farms, according to state Sen. John Gordner, R-27.

"As a continuing commitment to meet the objectives of the Chesapeake Bay strategy, these projects will improve water quality by preventing erosion as well as farm runoff into area streams," Gordner was quoted in a statement issued by his office Wednesday.

The Northumberland County Conservation District (NCCD) will receive $356,000 for projects along Schwaben Creek, in the Rebuck-Leck Kill Area, and Hallowing Run, which feeds into the Susquehanna River midway between Sunbury and Herndon. The Montour County Conservation District, meanwhile, has targeted three projects along the Chillisquaque Creek with the $288,000 it will receive.

All projects involve stream bank fencing to prevent farms animals from entering the streams, as well as physical improvements to the farms' manure collection systems. The individual farms will also contribute to the projects.

Judy Becker, district manager at the NCCD, said she's excited about the announcement of the funding, and that the district got nearly all of the $371,000 for which it applied.

She provided more details on the county projects.

One involves a livestock operation, and the funds will be used to install a roofed concrete barnyard with a manure storage, roof gutters and downspouts to prevent clean water from contacting manure and installation of a watering system. The farm operation is also going to contribute by fencing out the stream and installing crossings to limit access to a Schwaben Creek tributary, she said.

The second project, involving a dairy operation, will involve implementing a roofed concrete barnyard with manure storage, installing roof gutters and downspouts to prevent clean water from contacting manure and putting in a collection tank with a manifold pipe system to discharge all milkhouse waste and any silage leachate into a designated vegetated area.

"Just these two projects alone will have a significant impact," Becker said, noting estimates of a combined reduction of approximately 15,318.8 pounds of nitrogen per year, 5,633.1 pounds of phosphorus per year and 2,131 tons of sediment per year.

The district anticipates having both projects complete by the summer 2015.

Growing Greener is the state's largest environmental fund and has provided assistance for watershed restoration and protection, farmland preservation, and abandoned mine reclamation since its inception in 1999. The program is currently funded through dedication of municipal waste disposal fees.

SHAMOKIN - A city man already charged with an arson fire that destroyed a triple home on Sunbury Street in January has now been charged with setting two fires that destroyed several other buildings in Shamokin in the past five months.

James L. Neidlinger, 21, who is in prison on $200,000 bail, is now the suspect in three of four arson fires in the city since September. As for the fourth case, police said Friday an arrest is imminent - but the suspect in that case is not Neidlinger.

Patrolman Ray Siko II charged Neidlinger, whose last known address is 203 E. Dewart St., with arson and related charges stemming from blazes at 717 N. Shamokin St. on Sept. 5 and at the former Hardshell Cafe and an adjacent building in the 400 block of North Shamokin Street on the evening of Jan. 24.

Neidlinger has been in prison since Jan. 29 on charges he set a fire Jan. 28 that destroyed a three-story apartment building in the 600 block of Sunbury Street (Route 61), the third two-alarm fire that day after earlier, non-suspicious fires in Kulpmont and Coal Township.

The new charges were filed Thursday.

Witness comes forward

Fire broke out inside the rear of 717 N. Shamokin St. on Sept. 5, and quickly spread to other abandoned structures at 719, 721, 721-A, 723 and 725 N. Shamokin St. The buildings at 717 and 719 N. Shamokin St. sustained the most damage, but all the damaged properties were condemned.

According to court documents filed by Siko, the investigation into September's fire was dormant until Jan. 31, after Neidlinger was arraigned for the Sunbury Street blaze.

A witness, Russ Dindorf, told police he saw Neidlinger several hours before the Sept. 5 fire trying to enter the front door at 717 N. Shamokin St.

Siko said he visited Neidlinger in prison on Feb. 6 and asked if he understood why he wanted to talk to him again. Neidlinger replied, "It's about the other fires," Siko said.

Asked what other fires, Neidlinger replied, "the fires by Lee's garage and the yellow house near the gas station on Shamokin Street."

Neidlinger told Siko he went to the "yellow house" at 717 N. Shamokin St. to see if there was anything of value inside. He attempted to enter through the front door, but couldn't. He told Siko he found a partially open door around back and went inside. He told Siko he found nothing worth taking, the officer reported, but he gathered some papers in a middle room and lit them. He left the building when the blaze started to grow.

Neidlinger described for Siko a similar situation on Jan. 24, when he entered the former Hardshell Cafe at Shamokin and Shakespeare streets, across from David's Distributing, or "Lee's garage," as Neidlinger said. He entered through a rear door, found nothing of value to take, gathered papers together in the basement, lit them and left, Siko said he was told.

That fire not only damaged the former cafe, but also the adjacent structure at 420 N. Shamokin St., keeping emergency crews on the scene for approximately three hours.

'Don't want to lie'

In both cases, Neidlinger was able to provide specific information about the interior of the buildings, including where doorways led, items inside, where steps were located and other details, Siko said.

At the end of the interview, Siko asked Neidlinger why he wanted to come clean about the fires. "I know you caught me and I don't want to lie to you," was his response, the officer reported.

Siko told the prisoner he appreciated his honesty and thanked him. Neidlinger thanked Siko for treating him "like a human."

Concerning the Jan. 28 blaze, Neidlinger had told police he set it after walking around the city contemplating suicide. He said he was angry and frustrated over fights with his girlfriend.

Arraignment Tuesday

In both new cases, Neidlinger was charged with felony counts of arson and related offenses endangering persons; arson and related offenses endangering a building; arson of an uninhabited or unoccupied building; arson of an uninhabited or unoccupied building causing more than $5,000 damage; burglary; criminal trespass-entering a structure; risking a catastrophe and criminal mischief-damaging tangible property.

He is expected to be arraigned Tuesday before Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III, Shamokin. He remains in Northumberland County Prison on a probation detainer and the $200,000 bail for the Sunbury Street fire charges.

As for the fire earlier on Jan. 24, which damaged a vacant three-story brick apartment building at 725 N. Shamokin St. Siko reported the "imminent" arrest Friday afternoon.

MOUNT CARMEL - The rescue of a litter of puppies and their mother from the Silver Bowl was a group effort.

Some involved in the rescue contacted The News-Item on Friday to share more of the story.

The pregnant dog was spotted in the area of the Silver Bowl over the course of several weeks, and food was put out for her to eat. She was again spotted earlier this week inside the stadium, charging at a woman from beneath a set of bleachers.

"Thanks to (Melissa Ann Mekosh) we had an idea where pups were probably located," Ann Swartz, of Mount Carmel, wrote on a Facebook posting that she later shared with The News-Item.

It was a school district maintenance man, Sam Ryan, who went to the stadium to open its gates the night of the rescue, and not Dave Fegley, maintenance director, which was reported in Friday's edition.

Swartz said Tony Matulewicz, Mount Carmel borough council president, crawled under the bleachers and found the pups.

"Ronda Hawk Balonis of Mostly Mutts was there immediately when it was known pups were under bleachers. Ronda Hawk Balonis assessed the age of pups and made (the) decision to take pups to shelter," Swartz wrote.

Ryan and another man picked up a humane trap from Mostly Mutts to catch the mother. Joan Jeffery Ryan, Michelle Pauzer, Debbie Davis, Tommy Ditchey and Dave Donkochik were at the stadium for hours trying to catch the mom, to no avail.

The next day, Joan Jeffery Ryan, Sam Ryan, Balonis and Frankie Brosh helped capture her, she said.

Brosh drove her to Mostly Mutts, "where she was reunited with her puppies."

"Without all you guys this would have never happened!" Swartz wrote.

Greg Sacavage, an administrator at Mount Carmel Area School District, relayed what he knew of the story to The News-Item on Thursday night. His niece did come across the rescue at the Silver Bowl, but it was incorrectly reported that she had discovered the canine family.

6 boys, 3 girls

Cheryl Hill, of Mostly Mutts, a no-kill dog shelter in the rural Sunbury area, said Friday the 3-week-old puppies are healthy. There are six males and three females. The mother is on antibiotics for a breast infection. When the 10 dogs are ready, they'll be put up for adoption.

The puppies have generated a lot of interest.

"The phone has been ringing off the hook," Hill said Friday morning.

Two adoption applications have been submitted. She expects many more will follow in the coming days. Those looking to adopt can expect at least a five-week wait.

Students at Mount Carmel Area will be asked to name the puppies, she said, using monikers related to the stadium or the history of the Mount Carmel area. Sacavage had previously said a school fundraiser would help raise money for supplies for the puppies and their mother.

Both Hill and Sacavage credited all involved in the rescue.

"I don't want any credit. I just want the dogs taken care of," Sacavage said, apologizing for any potential hard feelings some may have had with his original account of what he was told occurred. "My intention of the whole thing is to make sure the dogs get adopted."

SHAMOKIN - Smoking will be forbidden inside the Harold Thomas Highrise effective March 1.

The Shamokin Housing Authority board voted 5-0 Thursday night to adopt a no-smoking policy after presenting the policy to residents last month and allowing a comment period.

"I received no written comments," said Ronald Miller, executive director for the authority, which owns and manages the building. "I've gotten a few verbal ones, but I don't want to repeat them at a public meeting."

The idea for a smoking ban gained momentum after a Dec. 13 trash compactor fire at Harold Thomas, an 11-story building at the corner of Sunbury (Route 61) and Dewart streets. Authorities said the fire started when a lit cigarette made its way down a garbage chute and into the compactor, where it smoldered and caused some damage. The fire was doused with a garden hose, but city firefighters did respond.

Under the new policy, smoking is banned in the apartments and common areas of the highrise. Residents can smoke outside, but must be at least 10 feet away from the building. A gazebo on the grounds facing Sunbury Street has been designated as a smoking area.

Those disobeying the policy will be given a verbal warning on a first offense, then a written warning. If there's a third offense, the tenant will be evicted, the policy states.

"We realize that this is an addictive habit, and that people will open up their window and smoke or find other methods," said authority Chairman Raymond G. "Jerry" Splane.

Nonetheless, he said he visited the building recently and found most people in favor of the ban.

Some tenants may want to move Madison Court, the former Center City Apartments building at Shamokin and Commerce streets that the authority recently acquired. The authority will continue to allow smoking at that building, Splane said.

Pamala S. Rhoades made the motion for the policy. It was seconded by Robert Wolfe and approved with yes votes from James Picarelli, Splane and Suzanne Kopitsky.

Averting threats

The authority adopted a second policy Thursday night to counter occasional threats to employees and board members from landlords or tenants with whom the authority has agreements, or others.

Miller spoke of a situation during which an out-of-town landlord said he is coming to town to dispute an authority decision and that he is going to "punch" someone.

"If there is even the littlest threat of that happening, 911 will be called and the person will be terminated from our programs," Miller said.

A motion to add the abuse clause was made by Kopitsky and seconded by Picarelli, and passed 5-0.

Madison Court

Also Thursday, Miller gave an update on Madison Court Apartments, noting new locks have been being placed on all exterior doors and residents have been given new keys.

"There were keys to the building floating all around Shamokin," Miller said. "That has changed."

He said security cameras and monitoring equipment will have to be installed to replace the previous system, which was removed, possibly by the former owners. Repair or replacement of the intercom system is planned, too.

Meanwhile, there is a new laundry system and repairs have been made to the hot water heaters and the furnace, Miller said.

"The biggest problem we have is the fire response and sprinkler system. It is passable for 1989 standards, so we will have to bring it up to code," he said.

Blueprints for the building are in the hands of the authority architect, and recommendations will be made to see how much is needed and what it will cost to bring the building up to code and make it more energy-efficient.

"After that, we will be going to PHFA (Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency) to see how much funding we can get from them" for such work, Miller said. It was the PHFA that gave the authority the mortgage on the building, part of a 3 1/2-year legal battle the authroity waged with the building's former owner, Red Gold Enterprise. That battle ended late last year when Red Gold owner Eugene Picarella filed for bankruptcy and opened the door for the authority's takeover.

SUNBURY - The Greater Susquehanna Valley United Way Board announced Friday it will be placing discretionary funding for the Susquehanna Council of Boy Scouts of America on "pause" while the national Boy Scouts of America organization concludes its review of a policy of "not granting membership to open or avowed homosexuals."

The action, which was unanimously approved Tuesday by the board, was taken in response to recent discussion at the national level of

the Boy Scouts of America and the withdrawal of support for the Boy Scouts of America by large corporations that have a long history of working with the United Way.

The decision also follows inquiries and discussion with both donors and regional Scout executives regarding the United Way's requirement that funded agencies have non-discrimination policies which disavow discrimination on the basis of several characteristics, including sexual orientation.

"I'm very hopeful the policy will change," Keri Albright, president and CEO of Greater Susquehanna Valley United Way, said Friday. "Once upon a time, slavery was the rule of the day, women couldn't vote and 'separate but equal' was okay. There comes a day when we have to change our policies that are exclusionary."

The board decided it was appropriate to set aside any additional funding pending the internal review by the Scouts at this time, she said.

Susquehanna Scouts executive Jon Brennan said Friday the local Boy Scouts chapter and the United Way have always had a strong relationship and he looks forward to continuing to have that relationship in the future.

Brennan said that since the local chapter is part of the national organization, it will adhere to whatever decision is made by the BSA's National Council at the annual meeting in May.

"I applaud that they're reviewing it. They're being forward thinking and progressive," said Brennan, who reserved further comment.

Decision in May

Last year, The United Way allocated $25,200 to local Scouts. Of that total, $8,200 came from private individuals donating to the Scouts through the United Way, which the organization will still deliver if specifically designated for the Boy Scouts, as they would for any other agency, Albright said.

However, the 2013 amount, which will not be made public until March 15, was placed in escrow until a decision is made.

Albright said the board has not made a decision on what to do with the funds if the national Boy Scouts organization continues to ban the membership of homosexuals. That decision will be discussed during a meeting in June, if necessary.

"That review is supposed to be concluded in early summer. If it goes the way most people in our region expect, United Way and Boy Scout policies should be fully aligned and all the funds will be shared," she said.

Based on long associations and personal affiliations with local Scouting, several members of the United Way board expressed appreciation for the leadership of the Susquehanna Council of the Boy Scouts of America and confidence that the local Boy Scouts council was completely inclusive.

'Do what's right'

Based on conversations Albright has had with local Boy Scouts leadership, she said the private policy of the Susquahanna Council is not to ask about or guess a person's sexual orientation, but she noted they still follow the national discriminatory practices publicly.

Not publicly welcoming gay adults and children is the same as not welcoming them, she said.

She said she understands there may be some criticism from those who support the current policies of the Boy Scouts, but she insisted the United Way must stand firm.

"We have to do what's right. I think it's wrong fundamentally and deeply insulting," Albright said.

She also noted that they will gain support if the Boy Scouts openly accept homosexuals; there are organizations and individuals who will not support the United Way because of the Boy Scouts current policy.

Your opinion counts

In the meantime, the national Boy Scouts of America organization is accepting and analyzing public input during the policy review through email at feedback@scouting.org.

Brennan said he has not heard any similar announcements from Lower Anthracite Regional United Way or Clinton County United Way, both of which provide support like Great Susquehanna Valley does.

Also, he said, "I haven't had anyone reach out to us to say 'yea' or 'nay.' We haven't had an outpouring of the community one way or another. Most people recognize it is a nationally-based organization and it will be a national decision."

Local input

Of the 1,400 voting members of BSA's National Council that will decide on a resolution regarding "membership standards," three of those members will be from the Susquehanna Council.

Brennan would not provide their names, but their vote will be based upon the feedback they receive from the local area.

There is no pressure or official policy from the leaders of the local chapter to vote any certain way, he said.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Jeep Jamboree USA's event at the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) was so popular last year, the group is returning in 2013.

Twice.

The early August Coal Mountain trail ride sold out in less than one hour, so the California-based organization booked a second event for early June.

The Coal Mountain ride is one of six sellouts among JJUSA's 31 rides planned nationwide. With upward of 500 people on a waiting list leftover from the sellouts, it's expected the June event at AOAA will fill up fast, too.

"I could guarantee it with my best pair of shoes," Glenda Gau, a Jamboree official, said this week of the potential for a second AOAA sellout.

Registrations in city

Jamboree officials are working with Shamokin's City Hall to host the public at registration for both events at Claude Kehler Community Park, Arch and Third streets. City Clerk Steve Bartos has spoken of the initiative, describing a block party-style atmosphere with vendors and entertainment.

Barry Yorwarth, one of five members of the AOAA Authority board, said JJUSA returning for a second visit within one summer speaks for itself. The group is roughly four-decades old, is nationally known, and is a partner with the Jeep brand.

"When you get a company of their stature to come to your area and have just one event, it's quite a task," he said.

The two Jamboree events are among four rides planned so far for this summer at the 6,500-acre park, which is hosting events while it remains under development by Northumberland County. The Valley Forge Trail Riders Hare Scramble will return in May and the Hummer Club Northeast Nationals will be there in late June. A Land Rover club is also considering visiting AOAA.

Ninety vehicles are registered for the Aug. 1 to 3 Jamboree. Eighty-one vehicles drove the coal hills south of Shamokin during the Jeep event last summer, attracting some 210 participants and guides, Gau said.

She expects similar numbers for the June 6 to 8 event, dubbed the Pirate Coal Mountain Jeep Jamboree.

The fact that the AOAA, still in its infancy - with plans for a welcome center only formally announced this week - is being sought out is a positive, said Yorwarth. The key is that AOAA has the one thing off-roaders want: great riding trails.

"That was just unbelievable that they came when that's all we have to offer them (so far)," Yorwarth said.

JJUSA describes the AOAA as offering trails from a range of 3 to 9 in difficulty. That means everything from moderately demanding trails thought to be a challenge for beginners, to demanding trails with deeper-steeper-larger obstacles, to very demanding trails where, as the group's website puts it in tribute, "the likelihood of getting stuck is high."

All the better for off-road enthusiasts, to which the local riders can attest.

Where to stay?

When the Jeep Jamboree returns, its participants will be staying at a hotel in Frackville. Of all the positive reviews AOAA got last year, the drawbacks for the visitors was a lack of local lodging. Gau said she's been seeking out local campgrounds as possibilities for interested participants. Some of last year's participants reportedly stayed at Knoebels Amusement Resort.

If the park is fully developed and becomes an attraction, there's long been speculation it would spur service-sector development.

"They want to do more things than just come here, play on the mountain and go home," Yorwarth said.

Gau sees the potential for economic development, calling the opportunity at AOAA a "huge" one. She's fielded phone calls from supporters and local entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on the development.

At Tuesday night's authority meeting, local Realtor Joe Bressi discussed his development of a campground on land between Trevorton and Gowen City, a project spurred by the AOAA.

Gau also acknowledged the undercurrent of opposition among some area residents. That was clear by a smattering of signs displayed last summer protesting the park, including one that said, "Riders go home."

"People resist change. I think we're comfortable with what we know," she said. "A lot of residents in that area are used to going out and riding the terrain without having to ride with permit fees and regulations."

Susquehanna University

SELINSGROVE - Thirteen local students were named to Susquehanna University's dean's list for the fall 2012 semester.

The dean's list recognizes students who achieve a grade point average of 3.4 or higher out of a possible 4.0 for the semester. To qualify, students must complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.

Students named to the list are:

Gwendolyn Bodner, of Elysburg, a freshman English and secondary education major. She is a 2012 graduate of Southern Columbia Area High School and a daughter of Benjamin and Victoria Bodner.

Danielle Boyd, of Coal Township, a freshman creative writing major. She is a 2012 graduate of Shamokin Area High School and a daughter of Jim and Sandy Boyd.

Bryon Chowka, of Coal Township, a senior political science major. He is a 2009 graduate of Shamokin Area High School and a son of Bryon and Stacy Chowka.

Courtney Conrad, of Coal Township, a senior biology major. She is a 2009 graduate of Shamokin Area High School and a daughter of Jeffrey and Sandra Conrad.

Joshua Druckenmiller, of Paxinos, a junior music major. He is a 2010 graduate of Shamokin Area High School and a son of Robert and Diana Druckenmiller.

Brad Fegley, of Elysburg, a freshman business administration major. He is a 2012 graduate of Southern Columbia Area High School and a son of Dave and Beth Fegley.

Maria Getchey, of Coal Township, a junior early childhood education major. She is a 2010 graduate of Lourdes Regional High School and a daughter of Robert and Susan Getchey,

Casey Henninger, of Coal Township, a senior music and psychology major. She is a 2009 graduate of Shamokin Area High School and a daughter of David and Annmarie Henninger.

Hunter Hoffman, of Dornsife, a junior biochemistry major. He is a 2010 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School and a son of Kenneth R. and Diane Hoffman.

Rebecca Krieger, of Elysburg, a senior history major. She is a 2009 graduate of Southern Columbia Area High School and a daughter of William and Martha Krieger.

Abriel Newton, of Elysburg, a freshman creative writing and French major. She is a 2012 graduate of Southern Columbia Area High School and a daughter of Mike and Lisa Newton.

Kenneth Schetroma, of Elysburg, a senior elementary education major. He is a 2009 graduate of Southern Columbia Area High School and a son of Kenneth and Ameila Schetroma.

John Slater, of Ashland, a sophomore biology major. He is a 2011 graduate of Tri-Valley High School and a son of John and Donna Slater.

TV group president to speak at BU

BLOOMSBURG - A Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania alumna, now president of the ABC-Owned Television Group, will share her observations on "The Future of TV," at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27, in BU's Carver Hall, Kenneth S. Gross Auditorium.

Rebecca Funk Campbell, class of 1983, was appointed president of the ABC-Owned Television Stations Group in May 2010 and is responsible for the company's local TV stations in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Houston, Raleigh-Durham and Fresno. Based in Burbank, Calif., she also oversees other businesses within the group, including ABC National Television Sales, The Live Well Network and the syndicated series, "Live with Kelly and Michael."

In addition to her lecture, Campbell will meet with mass communications students and faculty and tour the campus. For information, contact BU's College of Liberal Arts, (570) 389-4410. The event is free and open to the public.

Tribal convictions

Recently, 22 Republican Senators voted against the "Violence Against Women Act," including Sen. Chuck Grassley, (R-IA). His fear: If a non-Indian violates a Native American woman and they are not prosecuted they could then be tried by a tribal court on a reservation. He comments that Native American juries are incapable of trying white people fairly! Does he think the Indians are still trying to seek revenge for what happened hundreds of years ago? Perhaps he should read the Sixth Amendment to the Constitution.

Investigate

This is in reply to the person that wants the names of the people who received grants published in the paper. Well, I would also like to see what each recipient got and how much grant money is left, if any. Then, I would like to see the FBI or Attorney General called in to investigate if the money was awarded lawfully. They could also investigate the grant identified by DCED as a conflict of interest. If it is found to be a conflict of interest, I hope the taxpayers will not have to bear the cost.

Set your goals

Congratulations to Aleah Alderson, who will be heading to Harrisburg to the spelling bee. She is the first student in 10 years to achieve this. It should have been front page coverage, but the dogs took that spot. We need to encourage our young people when they reach such a goal.

Omega supreme

It is so true, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What one sees as nature's work of art may be repulsive to another. For example, I once saw an albino spider. Most people would shudder, but I saw it as one of God's rare and unique creations. I was awed by it as I am at times when I see a white caterpillar. These are proof of the existence of a grand creator and master of the universe. As the Bible says, the alpha and omega.

Place for vets

It would be wonderful if St. Catherine's could become a veterans hospital. As a veteran, I would go for treatment and as a nurse I would love to work there.

Off the payroll

Reading the opinion piece on revolving door to legislators includes jail cells was very good. It tells how our government leaders waste money and keep politicians on the payroll. Our governor needs money for highways and bridges. Why doesn't he start with this waste, having these people off the state payroll?

Ready for spring

When is the church, fire hall or somebody going to have an all-you-can-eat potato cakes, pierogies and all that good Polish food? I can't wait for spring. This winter is getting to me.

Out of office

I agree with your opinion piece concerning lawmakers with prison records who are reassigned to public office by their friends. They should be ineligible to hold an office for at least five years, then be required to run for an office, not be reassigned.

Something worthy

Instead of being quoted in local newspapers, the unrepentant "thief" who ransacked St. Catherine's Hospital should be disseminating his lies from a jail cell. That self-styled successful businessman should have no claim to a hospital he financially drained. Hopefully in the future we will get a buyer to develop that hospital into something worthy of our community.

Wonderful shop

There is a wonderful bike shop in downtown Sunbury called Runners Roost. My husband goes there all the time.

Make room

Good news, Shamokin. You are getting the coal bucket back next year. Start cleaning up and making room for it.

Trim the fat

I would like to commend Dr. Kraynak and Thomas Ditchey for their "no" vote. They understand that you have to trim the fat first before you take money from the reserves. They are the only two school board members who are looking out for the taxpayers' dollars.

Grow up

It is a shame that Congress is still acting like a bunch of little school kids. It is about time that they start thinking of the people that put them in office.

One of the first places Americans will see the impact of sequestration is in fulfilling their civic duty of paying federal taxes.

The across-the-board cuts of federal spending will fall on the Internal Revenue Service at the its busiest time - tax season.

Slowing down the tax collector may not seem like a bad thing, but consider that 70 percent of tax filers are receiving a refund and that most tax returns haven't been filed. By March 1, just one-third of the anticipated 149 million federal tax returns will have been processed and seven out of 10 filers is due a refund, said IRS spokesman David Stewart.

The IRS is formulating a plan should sequestration occur. All IRS activities at the 110,000-employee agency are on the table, but nothing has been decided, Stewart said.

"We are working on a plan," he said. "We aren't sure what the impact will be yet."

He added that it's too early to conclude that sequestration will slow return processing.

Tax professionals have little doubt that should sequestration happen, the processing of a good portion of tax returns will slow.

"Rest assured, there will be a curtailment of service and it will all be negative," said Jackson Hewitt chief tax officer Mark Steber.

Much uncertainty exists around the sequestration, but it most likely to slow things down for certain filers. Those who can expect delays are filers who have a change from prior-year taxes, such as a new address or dependent.

Those whose forms are complete with all supporting documents may not see much of a delay, because those are largely automated.

The working poor, who typically overpay their tax liability through payroll deduction throughout the year and count on their tax refunds to make ends meet and pay for essentials, could find themselves unable to get caught up on accumulated bills or put heating oil in the tank, said Michael Hanley, executive director of United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

"Tax refunds come at a crucial time," Hanley said. "Delaying that money for a few months would be a huge burden. I can easily see it in a worst-case scenario ending up in an eviction."

There's also an impact on the broader economy. With 70 percent of tax filers receiving a refund, the delay could mean a stall in the return of billions of dollars to the economy.

The IRS's Stewart said it's always a good idea to file early, particularly if the filer believes he or she is entitled to a refund. The process can be significantly sped up by doing two things: Filing electronically and designating a bank account for direct deposit of the refund.

E-filers with direct deposit and no issues with their taxes can get their refunds in about 21 days, Stewart said.

BLOOMSBURG - Federal officials were in town Wednesday to announce a $15 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant that will keep two local manufacturing plants high and dry when the Susquehanna River rises.

Rep. Lou Barletta, who worked with the Pennsylvania Congressional delegation to support the grant, attended the event at Autoneum, a car carpet manufacturing plant damaged by Tropical Storm Lee in 2011, said in a press release natural disasters take a toll on "human lives and personal devastation" and noted economic impact as well.

"This flood wall is an enormous protection for Bloomsburg, not only protecting nearly 1,000 jobs, but also safeguarding the community. I saw the devastation in person, and I know that local leaders have been waiting for assistance for many years. For this to finally be happening is a great thing for our community," he said.

Autoneum and nearby Windsor Foods will pay $3 million to build walls around their sites, and the state will kick in $12 million, according to The Press Enterprise, Bloomsburg. The $30 million project will allow the companies to continue operation during floods, according to the newspaper.

The grant announcement was also applauded by U.S. Senators Pat Toomey and Bob Casey.

"Since being sworn into office, I've been meeting and talking with local officials in Columbia County to address the town's flood concerns," Toomey said. "This grant will go a long way toward keeping jobs in Pennsylvania and protecting the citizens of Columbia County."

Casey said the grant "should ensure that good paying jobs remain in Columbia County."

"Bloomsburg has a critical need for flood protection and I'm pleased that this investment will help safeguard key businesses in Bloomsburg from the risks of flooding," he said.

Work at the first site includes construction of a 5,300-foot flood wall, relocation of about 2,100 feet of Snyder Run, installation of a new pump station and a construction of a stormwater and groundwater conveyance and collection system.

Work at the second site includes construction of a 3,000-foot flood wall and a sewage pump station and relocation of utilities. The project will support the retention of 900 jobs, according to grantee estimates.

This project is part of a $200 million appropriation made by Congress to EDA to help communities that received a major disaster designation in fiscal year 2011 with long-term economic recovery and infrastructure support. Within the context of the administration's National Disaster Recovery Framework (NDRF), EDA serves as the Coordinating Agency on behalf of the Department of Commerce for the Economic Recovery Support Function (RSF) to coordinate the activities of a diverse group of partner agencies supporting recovery in disaster-impacted communities. The activities consist primarily of leveraging existing resources and authorities to make a positive impact for communities affected by disasters.

Tropical Storm Lee caused a record crest of 32.7 feet on the Susquehanna River, leaving approximately one-third of Bloomsburg underwater in 2011.

SUNBURY - Commissioner Stephen Bridy believes Northumberland County can save more than $1 million dollars and make government more efficient by replacing the computer system and allowing field workers in certain departments to work at home or from the road.

Bridy said an initial investment of $350,000 to $500,000 to install a virtualized private network of computers and purchase or lease laptops or iPads for field workers could save the county approximately $1.3 million annually.

He said state funding currently provided to certain departments, along with grants and general fund dollars, would be used to pay for the new software and Telework program.

"Our current computer system, including most of the servers is antiquated," he said this week. "The equipment should have been replaced eight years ago."

He said certain areas of county government have been identified as being inefficient.

"I believe there is a lot of wasted space and unnecessary equipment in some of our offices," he said.

Accountability of the work being done by employees outside the office would also increase. Telework software would track employees' work flow and their location so county officials know their workers are doing their jobs.

Bridy said he has been studying the computer system issue since attending the National Association of Counties Conference in Pittsburgh in July 2012.

"I've been looking for a software solution to move the county from the 20th century into the 21st century," he said.

He said Tyler Technologies has submitted a proposal to the county to reduce its current annual computer licensing fee of $30,000 and payroll software cost of $30,000 to a total of $10,000 per year.

To illustrate his claim of wasted space and equipment, Bridy said there are 43 employees at the county administration center, which encompasses 19,100 square feet. He said the county has 184 field workers in various departments including Children and Youth Services, adult and juvenile probation, Area Agency on Aging and Behavioral Health and Intellectual Services (formerly Mental Health/Mental Retardation).

He said it currently costs the county approximately $2,500 per field worker to provide them with a flat-screen computer monitor, cubicle or office space, telephone service, heat, air conditioning and lighting.

"The new digital imaging system would be paperless, seamless and secure, and would be used countywide for the budget, payroll, human resources and other departments," Bridy said. "Combined with establishing the Telework system, it would save us a lot of money in terms of paper, time, mileage, sick days and other ways, while increasing efficiency."

Bridy said Tyler Technologies, which has worked with many municipalities and Fortune 500 companies, gave a demonstration on the virtualized private network of computers to county officials last month.

The commissioner said he also plans to seek proposals from Microsoft, Apple and Blue River Technology.

Bridy said support from his fellow Commissioners Vinny Clausi and Richard Shoch, department heads, information technology director Jeff Fetterman and other employees is paramount in making his recommendation come to fruition.

"I've briefly mentioned my ideas to Mr. Clausi and Mr. Shoch and they seem to support them," he said. "Obviously, this is only a recommendation that needs to be studied further before a vote can be taken. I hope we can make a decision by August."

SHAMOKIN - The Cecilian Club held its February meeting at the Grace Lutheran Church.

Nan Weller, president, conducted the open meeting, which was well attended by members and guests.

Marily Stasney shared a devotional reading, "Reach Out and Taste Life," by Debbie Macomber, from the book Daily Guideposts. Macomber said most of us like to taste all sorts of good food, so we should "reach out and taste life" by being willing to try doing something new and different.

The evening's concert theme, "I Love a Parade," featured a variety of patriotic music. The opening number was a vocal solo by Charlene Pell, who sang "Say a Prayer for the Boys over There" by McHugh. Philip Maue accompanied her on piano. This was followed by an organ solo as Margaret Morris played "America the Beautiful," arranged by Decou.

Carol Ellis sang "An American Celebration," arranged by Lojeski. She was accompanied by Weller. A saxophone solo was next as Bonny Klinger, accompanied by Noriene Ladd, played "Beautiful Colorado" by DeLuca. A vocal trio followed with "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" by Raye and Price, sung by Charlene Pell, Stasney and Kathi Christ, accompanied by Maue.

Weller, accompanied by Klinger, favored the audience with a flute solo, "Patriotic Medley," arranged by Olstead. Margaret Morris then sang "I Am an American," by Schuster, Cunningham and Whitcup. She was accompanied by Ladd on piano.

"America, My Wondrous Land," by Peery was sung by Ellis, Grethel Vinup and Linda Latsha, accompanied by Irvin Liachowitz. The concert concluded with Klinger playing a medley of Sousa marches on piano.

Members and guests then sang "Eternal Father, Strong to Save," also known as the Navy hymn, accompanied by Klinger.

The business meeting followed. Members were asked to remember several colleagues who are sick or recuperating from injuries.

Scholarship applications are ready to go out to area schools. This year's scholarship will be for $500. Any area high school senior who will be attending college next year with a major in music is eligible to apply. Instructions are with the application forms which will be available from music teachers at area schools.

Provided by the IRS

Protecting taxpayers and their tax refunds from identity theft is a top priority for the IRS. This year the IRS expanded its efforts to better protect taxpayers and help victims dealing with this difficult issue.

When your personal information is lost or stolen, it can lead to identity theft. Identity thieves sometimes use your personal information to file a tax return to claim a tax refund. Then, when you file your own tax return, the IRS will not accept it and will notify you that a return was already filed using your name and social security number. Often, learning that your return was not accepted or receiving a contact from the IRS about a problem with your tax return is the first time you become aware that you're a victim of identity theft.

1. How to avoid becoming an identity theft victim.

Guard your personal information. Identity thieves can get your personal information in many ways. This includes stealing your wallet or purse, posing as someone who needs information about you, looking through your trash, or stealing information you provide to an unsecured website or in an unencrypted email.

2. Watch out for IRS impersonators.

Be aware that the IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email or social media channels to request personal or financial information or notify people of an audit, refund or investigation. Scammers may also use phone calls, faxes, websites or even in-person contacts. If you're suspicious that it's not really the IRS contacting you, don't respond. Visit our Report Phishing web page to see what to do.

3. Protect information on your computer.

While preparing your tax return, protect it with a strong password. Once you e-file the return, take it off your hard drive and store it on a CD or flash drive in a safe place, like a lock box or safe. If you use a tax preparer, ask how he or she will protect your information.

4. How to know if you are, or might be, a victim of identity theft.

Your identity may have been stolen if the IRS notifies you that:

- You filed more than one tax return or someone has already filed using your information; 

- You owe taxes for a year when you were not legally required to file and did not file; or

- You were paid wages from an employer where you did not work.

Respond quickly using the contact information in the letter you received from the IRS so that we can begin to correct and secure your tax account.

If you think you may be at risk for identity theft due to a lost or stolen purse or wallet, questionable credit card activity, an unexpected bad credit report or any other way, contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit toll-free at 1-800-908-4490.