IRISH VALLEY - Annual services at the "old rugged cross" atop Paxinos Mountain begin Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

Attendees can follow organizers to the cross site by meeting between 1 and 1:30 p.m. at Clarks Grove United Methodist Church on Irish Valley Road.

To drive to the site directly, take Route 61 to Irish Valley Road, turn right onto School House Road, then turn right onto Fig Road and drive to the top of the hill. Volunteers will be on hand to direct vehicle parking.

The cross site is about a one-mile walk through the woods. There will also be vans shuttling between the cross and Fig Road for those who choose not to walk.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather.

Refreshments will be served after the service.

The cross site was established 52 years ago by a group of local Boy Scouts, and Scouts continue to maintain the site.

Saturday's service will mark the 27th at the cross. Last year, 376 people attended.

Dave Kyllonen, last year's guest speaker, returns with his gospel group, The Original Couriers.

Kyllonen, Duane Nicholson and Neil Enloe started as a music evangelistic team in 1955 as Bible college students. They are still true to their original message and sound, offering stability and dependability in their ministry.

The three, with more than 50 recordings, have delivered their message in song to more than 10,000 churches, concert halls and mission stations. Their rigorous travel schedules have taken them to more than 60 nations, all 50 states and all the Canadian provinces.

For more information on the event call Kevin Shervinskie at 274-0214.

DANVILLE - Ronald M. Dowd, 44, of Drums, the driver of a tri-axle truck injured in Wednesday morning's bizarre crash involving seven vehicles at Greco's Service Station along Route 61 at Atlas, was released Thursday from Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.

Dowd reportedly suffered shoulder and facial injuries in the crash and was initially listed in fair condition.

COLUMBUS, Ohio - A Shamokin native has been named a vice president in charge of human resources at Ohio State University.

Andraea Douglass, a daughter of Nancy (Yurkonis) Zarkoskie, formerly of 26 N. Pearl St., Shamokin, and the late Ray T. Zarkoskie, was named the new vice president for the Office of Talent, Culture and Human Resources, on Feb. 6. She started the job later that month.

In an emailed announcement to faculty, Ohio State University President E. Gordon Gee said Douglass has a deep understanding of OSU's priorities and opportunities.

"She has helped us to refine and accelerate our transformational One University strategy through her expertise in innovative problem-solving, process implementation, culture enhancement and management development," Gee said, according to an OSU report on the appointment.

A former student at St. Stanislaus School, Shamokin, and a 1972 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Douglass last worked for Senn Delaney, a company that focuses on shaping the culture of the workplace. She worked as a consultant with such firms as Nationwide Insurance, Merck Pharmaceuticals and the U.S. Air Force. She had been working with Ohio State for the past four years as a consultant and partner.

In her new job, she will oversee 250 staff members in the human resource office.

"I'm excited to join Ohio State," Douglass said in a media announcement. "We have very dedicated and committed people who want to be of service to the university, and in Human Resources we are positioned to help everyone do their best work every day. It will take a team of dedicated, high-performing faculty and staff to reach our goals, and in human resources, our focus is supporting our faculty and staff."

PAXINOS - Jeff Kurtz and his wife, Kathy, owners of Jeff's Auto Body & Recycling Inc., started out with an old pick-up truck, a cutting torch and a two-stall garage for body and mechanical work in 1981. More than 30 years later, the business has transformed into a sprawling 15-acre operation.

"We moved out here in 1978 in a trailer house in the woods and built out from there," said Jeff Kurtz. "I left my full-time job in 1981."

The couple, who will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary in April, still live on site.

In the early days, the body shop was the main focus of the business; they did a little recycling on the side.

"In the mid-1980s, recycling became big business and we branched off into that," Jeff said.

Now, Jeff estimates they recycle about 500,000 pounds of aluminum cans a year and 100,000 tons of scrap metal.

They recycle everything under the sun except glass and old television sets. They recently put up a building where they accept and sort plastic and electronics.

They scrap and recycle cars, steel, cooper, brass, aluminum and old appliances. They also have a selection of used tires for sale. There is a you-pull-it yard where customers can pick parts for a $3 admission price plus the cost of parts.

The recycling yard is a hub of activity with several pieces of heavy equipment, including fork lifts and excavators, moving recyclable objects or dropping cars into the car crusher and trucks dropping off and picking up items.

Jeff's has 62 roll-off containers, carried by two trucks, two rollback trucks and a wrecker for the body shop.

The recycling center includes a sweat furnace, where dirty, unrecyclable aluminum is melted down into 1,400 pound ingots shipped all over the country and the world.

Their customers come from near and far; international customers are as close as Canada and as far away as China.

"We meet a lot of people from all over the world," Jeff said.

The body shop has grown over the decades from the humble two-stall garage to a large state-of-the-art facility which was built in 2006. It is an official state inspection site. The shop has a dedicated paint booth and uses a PPG Envirobase High Performance Waterborne paint system, which is "environmentally sound," Jeff said.

Kathy said the business can do something with just about anything that comes through the door.

"If we can't fix it, we can scrap it," she said.

Jeff and Kathy's two adult sons, Steve and Todd, went into the family business and started working for them "as soon as they could pick up aluminum cans," according to Jeff. Todd manages the body shop and Steve manages the recycling center along with his wife, Dawn. When Jeff and Kathy finally decide to retire, they know the business they built from scratch will be in good hands. The couple also has five grandchildren.

Jeff admits some may see his recycling center as an eyesore, but he stresses its environmental program is second to none and any water that makes its way into the ground is chemical free.

"We keep a green facility and believe that everyday should be Earth Day," He added.

In keeping with their attitude about the environment the Kurtz' own 75 acres of undeveloped land behind their operation they keep as a "little getaway" complete with feeders for deer, turkey and other wild animals. They offer by-appointment tours of the land and facility for special interest groups such as the Boy Scouts.

In reflecting on their long term success, Kathy said shares the family's motto: Treat people the way you want to be treated.

"It has worked for us," she said.

For his part, Jeff gives much credit to his 40-year marriage to Kathy and his employees.

"Behind every successful man is a good woman, and behind every successful business are good employees," he said.

Jeff's Auto Body & Recycling Inc., 5446 Snydertown Road, is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The body shop is closed Saturday and Sunday, but the recycling center is open from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday and closed Sunday. For more information, call 672-9690.

SELINSGROVE - Two local students were recently chosen to serve as officers for their Greek organizations at Susquehanna University. The officers work toward improving life at Susquehanna through community building events and social activities.

Skyler Deitrick, of Coal Township, was chosen to serve as vice president of service of Phi Mu Delta fraternity. Deitrick is a junior psychology major. A 2010 graduate of Shamokin Area High School, he is a son of Lon Deitrick and Tracy Moore.

Hunter Hoffman, of Dornsife, was chosen to serve as vice president of membership of Phi Mu Delta fraternity. Hoffman is a junior biochemistry major. A 2010 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School, he is a son of Kenneth R. and Diane Hoffman.

Susquehanna University is home to six national fraternities for men that comprise the Interfraternity Council: Phi Mu Alpha (Lambda Beta chapter), Phi Mu Delta (Mu Alpha chapter), Pi Kappa Phi (Iota Epsilon chapter), Phi Beta Sigma (Gamma Beta Alpha chapter), Tau Kappa Epsilon (Iota Beta chapter) and Theta Chi (Beta Omega chapter).

PAXINOS - The length of the driver's side of an SUV was mostly sheared away after it side-swiped an oncoming dump truck near Stahl's roadside stand in Shamokin Township.

Jonathan L. Morgante, 28, of Mount Carmel, was rushed to Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital, Coal Township, for emergency treatment following the collision at 10:50 a.m. along Route 61 near Juniper Road. He was wearing a seatbelt, police said.

Trooper David Townsend, state police at Stonington, said Morgante's injuries were moderate. A nursing supervisor said Thursday night Morgante was treated and released.

The highway was closed in both directions from the time of the crash until about 4 p.m.

Morgante was driving a 2004 GMC Envoy north when, according to a public information report from Townsend, he swerved for unknown reasons into the path of a southbound 1994 Mack CL-700 driven by Terry L. Shade, 61, of Milton.

Shade was wearing a seatbelt and was not injured.

The dump truck is owned by Unico Sealing Inc., Lewisburg.

The impact shredded the Envoy's exterior and sent it careening into a stone retaining wall, coming to rest on its driver's side. Pieces of the SUV were scattered on the road. A spring from its suspension was laying at the side of the road as was a rear wheel still attached to a piece of the rear axle.

The dump truck hit a guide rail and blew at least two tires, and it leaked a large amount of diesel fuel onto the road.

According to witnesses, a dog was in the Envoy at the time of the crash and ran away after impact. The dog was later found by a bus driver and returned safely to its family.

Assisting at the scene were fire and rescue personnel from Stonington, Elysburg and Shamokin, Northumberland County Emergency Management, Elysburg and AREA Services ambulances.

Tax office closed

SHAMOKIN - The city tax office will be closed today in observance of Good Friday.

No candidates withdraw

SUNBURY - The deadline for candidates to withdraw their nomination petitions came and went Wednesday without any candidates exiting the primary, Alisha Herb, Northumberland County director of elections, reported late Wednesday.

Donations wanted for flower wall

THARPTOWN - "The Flower Crew" is looking for some donations to become part of the Route 61 Wall Project by the Cameron Bridge.

The public can drop off at the wall their old Easter flowers and any other donated flowers that the volunteer crew will do their best to plant. The group thanks everyone who have encouraged them with their support, honks, flowers, Miracle-Gro products, dirt and words of appreciation.

Borough no longer picks up yard waste

MOUNT CARMEL - Residents are reminded that the borough does not pick up bags of yard waste or any other bags. Residents will be cited for leaving bags streetside. Also, officials ask that residents refrain from making dirt piles in the street. The sweeper is more efficient if the dirt is spread out rather than on piles.

INDIANA - The following area students from Northumberland County completed requirements for graduation from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in December:

Tyson Robert Milbrand, of East Chestnut Street, Shamokin, Bachelor of Science in geology/environmental.

Kyla Isabel Groat, Catawissa Avenue, Sunbury, Bachelor of Fine Arts in art studio.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Coal Township Vietnam War veteran Sol Bidding announced that the Vietnam Memorial Moving Wall will be displayed in the playground in Tharptown from May 29, 2014, to June 2, 2014.

Bidding said seven local Vietnam War veterans will be welcomed home for the first time during a special ceremony at the Wall.

He said the wall honors 58,226 soldiers killed in the war and approximately 2,000 veterans listed as missing in action and prisoners of war.

"Those of us who survived Vietnam will find the wall heart-breaking," Bidding said. "While those of us who fought in Vietnam find it hard to visit the Wall in Washington, D.C., I'm hoping our local veterans may find closure by visiting the wall in Tharptown and by touching the very names of those they served with."

Bidding said Vietnam War veterans were treated terribly and disrespected upon returning home from serving their country.

He stated, "All gave some, while others gave all. Come and say in person, 'welcome home' to those on the long, black, cold wall."

Bidding, who serves as sergeant of the wall guard and recording secretary for the Soldiers Circle Veterans Association, said it will cost $5,000 to bring the wall to Tharptown plus another $1,500 to build a form and handicap walkway and purchase flags and flagpoles.

He said monetary donations may be sent to the Northumberland County Council for the Arts and Humanities, c/o Garth Hall, 1113 N. Franklin St., Shamokin 17872. Any businesses wishing to place ads in a program for the event can call Shamokin American Legion Commander Roger Alleman at 648-6034.

Bidding said veterans wishing to serve as honor guards at the wall can contact him at 274-5298.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following hearings took place Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones. Defendants ordered to appear for plea court April 29 in Northumberland County Court, Sunbury, can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Kathrina P. Hutchinson, 28, of Harrisburg, was held for court on all charges after she failed to appear for her hearing.

Hutchinson was charged by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman David Stamets with two counts of driving under the influence of a controlled substance or combination of drugs, possession of a controlled substance and failure to drive in a single lane relating to a Nov. 24 incident on the Merriam Highway.

n Dennis J. Cousentino Jr., 44, of 1435 Chestnut St., Kulpmont, waived to court two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol, driving an unregistered vehicle and failure to exhibit a registration card.

The charges filed by Kulpmont Patrolman Joshua Pastucka relate to a Feb. 4 incident in the 1400 block of Chestnut Street.

n James Dougherty, 40, of 335 W. Sixth St., Mount Carmel, waived to court two counts of driving under the influence of a controlled substance or combination of drugs and driving under suspension involving a Jan. 23 accident in the 400 block of West Sixth Street.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Patrolman Jason Drumheller.

n Nicholas J. Dusendschine, 19, of 716 Spruce St., Kulpmont, waived to court two counts of driving under the influence of a controlled substance or combination of drugs, accidents involving damage to attended property, possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to give information and render aid and restrictions on a driver's license.

The charges filed by Kulpmont Police Chief Richard Wilson III relate to a Jan. 31 hit-and-run accident at Eighth and Chestnut streets.

n Cindy Ann Santore, 45, of 217 Third St., Ranshaw, waived to court two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to drive in a single lane and careless driving.

The charges filed by Kulpmont Patrolman Shane Reamer involve a Jan. 27 vehicle stop in the 1400 block of Chestnut Street.

n Jill M. Donkochik, 33, of 1411 Chestnut St., Kulpmont, waived to court two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol and careless driving relating to a Jan. 24 accident at 15th Street and Route 61.

Kulpmont Patrolman Shane Reamer filed the charges.

n Justin C. Hendricks, 26, of 1018 W. Walnut St., Coal Township; Gerald Lee Bojanac, 25, of Edinburg, and David J. Kondisko, 25, of 341 W. Avenue, Mount Carmel, waived charges to court in connection with a Nov. 26 incident at the intersection of Hickory Street and Route 487 in Elysburg.

Hendrick and Kondisko were charged with possession of a small amount of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Bojanac was charged with two counts of possession of Vicodin and possession of drug paraphernalia.

All the charges were filed by Ralpho Township Patrolman Chris Grow.

n Barry Thomas Adams, 30, of 111 N. Market St., Mount Carmel, waived to court charges of access device fraud, identity theft, theft by unlawful taking and receiving stolen property.

Adams was charged by Mount Carmel Patrolman Matt Dillman with stealing a credit card owned by David Urbanowicz and using it to make various purchases and cash withdrawals between Jan. 1 and March 2.

n Edward Miller III, 28, of 863 W. Spruce St., Apt. 2, Coal Township, waived to court charges of delivery of Ecstasy, possession with intent to deliver Ecstasy, delivery of Suboxone, possession with intent to deliver Suboxone and criminal use of a communication facility.

The charges filed by Shamokin Cpl. Bryan Primerano relate to a May 13, 2011, incident in Kulpmont. Primerano is a member of the Northumberland-Montour Drug Task Force.

n Kelsey Ann Janolek, 18, of 140 N. Walnut St., Mount Carmel, waived to court driving under the influence of alcohol, driving with alcohol in her system while being a minor, a lighting violation and underage drinking involving a Dec. 30 vehicle stop on Beaverdale Highway.

The charges were filed by Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Daniel Politza.

n Anthony W. McGinley, 30, of Williamsport, waived to court charges of flight to avoid apprehension and loitering and prowling at night relating to incidents that occurred between Sept. 22 and Sept. 23 on Route 61.

Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Kelly Campbell filed the charges.

SHAMOKIN - A 50-year-old Kulpmont man who allegedly struck a Mount Carmel resident with his van Wednesday night when fleeing the scene of a theft has been arrested on multiple charges, including a felony of aggravated assault.

Kenneth S. Ross, of 733 Pine St., was arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge Benjamin Apfelbaum of Sunbury on two counts of aggravated assault and misdemeanors of simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, theft, receiving stolen property and disorderly conduct.

Ross, who was committed to Northumberland County Prison in Sunbury in lieu of $1,000 cash bail, is accused of hitting Destry Cavada, 26, of Mount Carmel, with a white 1993 Ford van after allegedly helping Carlos Perez steal three guitars and an amplifier valued at $600 from Perez's brother, Shane Perez, in the first block of East Church Street shortly before 9 p.m.

Cavada suffered injuries to his right hand, right elbow and backside and was transported by AREA Services to Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital.

Ross was released from prison Thursday after posting bail.

According to a criminal complaint filed by Cpl. Darwin Tobias III, Ross and Carlos Perez had removed the guitars and amplifier and were attempting to flee the area when Shane Perez yelled to his cousin, Cavada, to come outside while threatening to call police to sort out the issue.

Shane Perez said Ross was operating the white Ford van and Carlos Perez was a passenger in the front seat. Shane Perez told police he was able to jump out of the way of the van, but Cavada, who was standing on the sidewalk, was struck by the vehicle, thrown onto the hood and knocked to the ground.

Cavada said he struck the passenger side mirror while falling onto the ground.

Police recovered the guitars and amplifier at Ross' residence.

Ross told police Shane Perez grabbed a windshield wiper while he and Carlos Perez were leaving. Ross said it was possible Cavada struck the van, but he denied hitting anyone.

Police said theft-related charges are pending against Carlos Perez.

PAXINOS - A job fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday at Masser's Banquet Hall near the intersection of Route 487 and Route 61.

Job seekers will be granted free admission and are asked to bring copies of resumes. The event gives job seekers a chance to meet with area employers, discuss job opportunities, obtain training information and learn more about the WorkKeys program.

The job fair is sponsored by the the Northumberland/Snyder/Union Counties PA CareerLink, Sunbury, The Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce and McCann School of Business and Technology in Sunbury.

Businesses that will be present include McCann, PA CareerLink, National Ticket Company, International Paper, Triangle Tech, the U.S. Army, CSIU WATCH Program, HH Knoebels Sons Inc., PA State Civil Service Commission, Geisinger Health System, CSO Community Action Agency, Clear Channel, Luzerne County Community College, Strong Industries, Milton Transportation, Safety Net Counseling Inc., Sunbury Motors, Experience Works, Aerotek, PHEAA, Hope Enterprises, Reinhart Foods, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Harry's Grill, Sundance Vacations and Manpower.

E-recycling to start in April

COAL TOWNSHIP - The Coal Township Recycling Center will resume electronic recycling Thursday and will continue each Thursday until further notice.

Veggie 101 workshop scheduled

SUNBURY - Penn State Master Gardeners of Northumberland and Snyder counties will present "Veggie 101" workshop at the Degenstein Library, 40 S. Fifth St. at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 6. Topics include planting guidelines, preparing soil, types of gardening, cool and warm crops, seeds or transplants and extenders.

Call the Penn State Extension Office at 988-3950 to register.

Bridge work planned

GOWEN CITY - Rehabilitation of a 130-foot-long bridge over Mahanoy Creek will begin Monday, April 8, PennDOT reported.

HRI Construction Co. LLC is the prime contractor for the work. One lane will be closed while the contractor replaces a strip-seal dam, patches the deteriorated concrete and coats of the bridge deck with epoxy.

Work is scheduled to be completed by May 24.

Other bridges under the contract are on Route 339 in Columbia County, Route 54 at the Northumberland-Montour County line, Route 44 in Northumberland County and Route 61 in Northumberland County.

All work under this five-bridge contract should be completed by Aug. 9.

Dog wardens to police Shamokin

HARRISBURG - During the week of April 8, dog wardens will canvass Shamokin to ensure dog owners have current licenses and rabies vaccinations for their dogs.

All dogs three months or older must be licensed by Jan. 1 of each year. The fee is $6.45 for each spayed or neutered dog and $8.45 for other dogs. Older adults and persons with disabilities may purchase a license for $4.45 for spayed or neutered dogs and $6.45 for others.

Additionally, all dogs and non-feral cats three months and older must be vaccinated against rabies. Booster vaccinations must be administered periodically to maintain lifelong immunity. Violators can be cited with a maximum fine of $300 per violation plus court costs.

Licenses may be purchased through the Northumberland County treasurer by calling 988-4161 or going to www.padoglicense.com.

COAL TOWNSHIP - To say Laurie and Dan Krebs have been through a lot the past 16 months would be putting it mildly.

The couple grieved the loss of their newborn son Landon, who - with his twin sister Kyleigh - was born three months premature, and devoted sleepless nights caring for Kyleigh, who lived her first two months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Janet Weis Children's Hospital in Danville.

Overcoming the struggle of losing one child and watching another battle through a barrage of medical issues would not have been possible without the support of March of Dimes, the Krebs said.

The couple from the Edgewood section of Coal Township are now giving back to the organization by forming Kyleigh's Krawlers, a team led by Laurie Krebs that will participate May 5 in March for Babies at Geisinger Medical Center.

"Throughout our stay, they were there every day for us," Laurie said. "They brought us literature to read and had larger events for the families in the NICU, including a pizza party and organized family portraits."

Teams find sponsors to raise money prior to the 3-mile walking event around Geisinger. People can donate any amount of money to the cause. Laurie hopes to raise $1,300, which will go towards continuing programs at the NICU.

A long road

Kyleigh and Landon were born 14 minutes apart on Nov. 2, 2011. Landon weighed 2 pounds 5 ounces; Kyleigh 2 pounds even.

The Krebs said Landon seemed typical for a preemie until results for lab work and an ultrasound came back.

Doctors found a grade 4 brain bleed - the most severe of its type. Later that day, Laurie and Dan had to decide whether to keep him on life support. Landon past away Nov. 3, 26 hours after his birth.

Kyleigh suffered from respirator distress, jaundice, anemia of prematurity and ductus patent arteriosus, a heart problem that affects some babies soon after birth.

She was released from the hospital Jan. 1, 2012. Today, Kyleigh has fully recovered and weighs 18 pounds.

"She has had a long road with weight," Dan Krebs said while Kyleigh crawled around their living room. "We're just happy she's here."

During Kyleigh's stay, a March of Dimes representative offering support approached Laurie and Dan.

Phoebe Beckley, March of Dimes family support specialist for the NICU, was especially kind, the Krebs said.

"She would ask how we were doing as parents," Dan Krebs said. "You hear about it on TV, but (you) don't know what they are about until they are there for you."

Touched by the kindness of people like Beckley, Laurie formed the team and also joined a March of Dimes advisor committee that strives to help improve the NICU for patients and their families.

To help meet the Krebs' goal of $1,300, a benefit night fundraiser will be held from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. April 9 at Brewser's SportsGrille in Coal Township. Brewser's will donate 20 percent of sales from guests that present tickets. Tickets are available by contacting the Krebs at lakrebs@ptd.net or by going to the team's Facebook page at http://on.fb.me/YOOcDy.

To make a donation, go to www.marchforbabies.org/lakrebs12.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following hearings took place Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Hugh Jones. Defendants ordered to appear for plea court April 29 in Northumberland County Court, Sunbury, can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.

n Kenneth Shustack, 42, of 227 W. Saylor St., Atlas, waived to court charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, two red light violations, driving on the wrong side of the road and careless driving relating to a Feb. 5 vehicle stop in the area of the Strong Connector.

Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Daniel Politza filed the charges.

n Stephen P. Miller, 27, of 243 W. Fifth St., Mount Carmel, waived to court charges of delivery of heroin, possession with intent to deliver heroin, possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal use of a communication facility.

The charges filed by Mount Carmel Police Chief Todd Owens and Patrolman Matt Dillman relate to a June 27 incident at Seventh and Market streets.

GORDON - The "Trek of the Cross" took to the streets of Gordon for the 35th time on Good Friday, bringing the portrayal of Jesus Christ carrying His cross to Calvary to those in their homes and as an outward devotional of faith.

For the fourth year in a row, Jeffrey Nemeth, of Frackville, donned the white robe, purple sash and crown of thorns and carried the large cross through the borough.

The trek began at 12:15 p.m. at Simpson United Methodist Church, where it has begun since the beginning. The parsonage next to the church was used as the dressing room for Nemeth and the two centurions - Keegan Hubler, of Lavelle, and Brandon Herling, of Hazleton - who provided the Roman guard during the walk. Others walked behind Jesus dressed in period costume or wore modern clothing.

While Nemeth waited to begin the trek, he said, "This was intended only to be 12 treks, but it's been going a long time. When it first started, it was just to get the message out to the homebound, and we still do it for the people who can't get out. I see people take pictures and videos. It's means a lot to them. I'm going to keep it going as long as possible."

As has been the tradition for those who have portrayed Jesus, Nemeth walked barefoot. There have been two years that there was inclement weather during the trek's history, but Friday's weather cooperated again with no precipitation and with moderately chilly temperatures.

Before the trek began, Len Zarko, of Fountain Springs, stood near the parsonage with his camera. He came to Gordon with his friend, John Ballinger Jr., of Mount Carmel, and said it was the first time to see the trek.

"I've known about the Trek of the Cross, but I just didn't get over here to see it," said Zarko. "I've been watching 'The Bible' series on History, and I remembered that they were going to have this here in Gordon, so I wanted to come over and see it this time."

The trek began with a prayer from the Rev. John Wallace, pastor of Simpson UMC.

"Dear God, thank you for this of all days. We pray that what we will do today will bring honor and glory to your Son, Jesus Christ, Our Lord, in whose name we march and remember with thanksgiving."

Sharing the message

The tradition began in 1979 when Elmer Yost, of Allentown, picked up a large cross and walked through the streets portraying Jesus Christ to bring the salvation message of Good Friday to Gordon's homebound. The first year, Yost did the trek by himself. The second year, he had a friend come from Allentown as a soldier. On the third year, he rented two soldier costumes.

When he started the trek, Yost was an Allentown resident, but made regular visits to the borough and was a member of Simpson United Methodist Church, as well as with a church in Allentown. The pastor at the time was interested in re-enactments and supported Yost in his idea.

Yost had planned to do the trek for 12 years - a year for each Apostle, with the hope that it would continue beyond that time. Shortly after the 10th trek, Yost passed away. In order to complete the intended 12 years of treks, Yost's nephew, Edward Labie, of Girardville, picked up the cross in 1989 for the two remaining years. Those two treks became 21 treks, his last in 2009. In 2010, Nemeth, who is Labie's nephew, picked up the cross.

Nemeth doesn't know how long he will continue the family tradition, but he hopes that his four-year-old son, Jeffrey, will do so when he grows up.

"My little guy right there doesn't know it, but he will be the next one," said Nemeth.

The trek began at Simpson United Methodist Church on Biddle Street and proceeded east to Hobart Street, where it turned right. The participants walked the entire length of the street, moved west to McKnight Street, then moved to Biddle Street, where the trek turned left to end at Simpson UMC. Participants and onlookers entered the church for the 1 p.m. Good Friday service by Pastor Wallace.

Gordon Fire Police provided traffic control.

The latest grand jury indictment in a tri-county drug case ties three accused dealers who allegedly operated in Shamokin, Mount Carmel and beyond to a criminal street gang.

A grand jury says Renard Durant, 26, of Bloomsburg, Shelton Cochrane II, 35, of Mount Carmel, and Gilberto Lanzot Jr., 31, of Mount Carmel and Wilkes-Barre, each held leadership positions within the Pennsylvania branch of the Almighty Renegade Gangsta Bloods.

The trio and a co-conspirator, Jeffrey Tripp, 27, of Kulpmont, are all accused of dealing heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine and marijuana. Cash and guns were traded to buy the drugs in the Hazleton area of Luzerne County as well as New York and New Jersey, prosecutors say. They then sold the drugs in Northumberland and Columbia counties beginning around July 2011 through their arrest in June 2012.

Some of the profits were kicked into two kitties, one for the local gang and another for a "national treasury," court records say, and the defendants recruited others as members to further their enterprise.

Drugs, guns, cash and gang literature - writings on oaths, bylaws, alliances and gang hierarchy - were all stored at various locations, including at unidentified homes in Shamokin and Mount Carmel as well as at Tripp's former residence at 943 Chestnut St., Kulpmont, and Durant's at 567 W. Main St., Bloomsburg, according to court records.

Cochrane is accused of buying a brick of heroin in August 2011, while Durant is accused of selling 174 bags of heroin on three occasions in Northumberland and Columbia counties. Other sales of marijuana and cocaine are also alleged, along with the trade of a .22 caliber revolver with an obliterated serial number.

The gang affiliations were alleged in the second superseding indictment issued in the case. The original indictment naming only Durant and Tripp came in June. Cochrane and Lanzot were identified in the first superseding indictment in December.

Tripp initially pleaded not guilty to federal charges. He has since changed his plea to guilty and is cooperating with prosecutors of U.S. Attorney's Office of the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

Durant, Cochrane and Lanzot have all pleaded not guilty. A trial that had been continued more than once is presently scheduled to begin May 8.

Mount Carmel Police Chief Todd Owens, a member of the Northumberland-Montour Drug Task Force, is a deputized task force member for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He signed the original complaints against Durant and Tripp.

Owens wouldn't talk Friday about the case since it's a pending matter, but he spoke in general about gang activity in the local drug trade.

"Big city" gang activity is ongoing in this and other rural areas throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania, he said. But to put it in context, he said, their presence varies. "We don't want to create a sense of hysteria where there doesn't have to be any," he said.

Gangs sell drugs locally because the demand exists and the markup is significant. Owens said a small bag of heroin that sells for $5 or $6 in New York City can fetch between $25 and $30 locally. "It pretty much boils down to money," he said.

Local police work with state troopers, district attorneys and the FBI to monitor any suspected gang activity, seeking to dismantle the organizations before they can gain a "real strong foothold" locally.

COAL TOWNSHIP - Street sweeping will begin in the township Monday. The first week's schedule is:

West end

Monday: north side of Walnut Street from First Street to Locust Street in the morning; south side of Walnut Street from First Street to Locust Street in the afternoon.

Tuesday: north side of Walnut Street from Locust Street to Woodlawn Avenue in the morning; south side of Walnut Street from Locust Street to Woodlawn Avenue in the afternoon.

Wednesday: north side of Arch Street from First Street to Locust Street in the morning; south side of Arch Street from First Street to Locust Street in the afternoon.

Thursday: north side of Arch Street from Locust Street to Woodlawn Avenue in the morning; south side of Arch Street from Locust Street to Woodlawn Avenue in the afternoon.

Friday: both sides of Water Street and Clinton Avenue from Woodlawn Avenue to Jackson Street in the morning; both sides of Woodlawn Avenue from Independence Street to Lynn Street in the afternoon; both sides of Jackson Street from Clinton Avenue to Park Avenue in the afternoon.

East end

Monday: south side of Tioga Street from Hakes Street to Thomas Street in the morning; north side of Tioga Street from Hakes Street to Thomas Street in the afternoon.

Tuesday: south side of Pulaski Avenue from Lombard Street to Chemung Street in the morning; north side of Pulaski Avenue from Lombard Street to Chemung Street in the afternoon.

Wednesday: south side of Pulaski Avenue from Chemung Street to Meade Street in the morning; north side of Pulaski Avenue from Chemung Street to Meade Street in the afternoon.

Thursday: south side of Hemlock Street from Emory Street to Sherman Street in the morning; north side of Hemlock Street from Emory Street to Sherman Street in the afternoon.

Friday: south side of Hemlock Street from Sherman Street to Meade Street in the morning; north side of Hemlock Street from Sherman Street to Meade Street in the afternoon.

Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School

COAL TOWNSHIP - The following memorials have been made to Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School for January and February 2013.

Joan Todisco from Ted and Jackie Matlow; Isabell Amarose; John Parry; Vince and Lisa Rawa and family; Linda Harvan and William G. Reese, Jr.; Loretta Quinn; Michael and Jane Klembara; Diane Elgin; Joann Wallauer; the John Reiprish family; Joyce Kealey; Daniel and Nancy Kerris; Dorothy Tomtishen; Gloria Tresca; Joe and Floss Ecker; Mr. and Mrs. Francis Bach; Mary Altomare; Roseann and Trip McGarvey; Andy and Ann Marie Slodysko; Dennis and Barb Reiprish; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wurster; John and Joanne McKay; Dennis and Kathy Holleran and family; Jack and Catherine Maciejewski; Stephen and John Maciejewski; Judy Polites; LeeAnna Talisesky; Daniel and Jacqueline Kerris and family; Mary Ann Balonis; Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Christiana; Mr. and Mrs. James Shutt; Jared Shutt; Mr. and Mrs. Faisal and Susan Imam; Gloria Catino.

Irene Maurer from Ken Albert and Karen, Pam, Marie, Brenda, Carolyn, Michelle and Sue.

Carole Eckman from Mr. and Mrs. Barry Lentz.

Mrs. George Miller from Rosalie Jindale, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Shaw, Jr.

William Janovich from Gloria Fresca; Michael and Jane Klembara; Peggy and Richard Thomas; Pat and Paul Metrocavage; Mary Jane Toccket; Mrs. Antoinette Bach and family; Mr. and Mrs. Donald Yuricich; Mary Altomare; Lorraine A. Gusick; Francis and Mary Bach; Walter and Jim Kozlowski; Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Purcell; Mr. and Mrs. Michael Timco; Mrs. Mary Ann Balonis.

Albert Scicchitano from Pat Janovich; Michelle McMurtrie; Mr. and Mrs. Ken Albert and family; Mr. and Mrs. Nguyen; Kathy and Angelica Masser; Diana and Robert Bradley; Mr. and Mrs. Michael Long; Mr. and Mrs. William Gilger and family; Athena M. Reed; New Beginnings Hair Salon; Mrs. Elizabeth Gilger and family; Mr. and Mrs. Shawn Scicchitano and family; Mr. and Mrs. Michael Timco; Mrs. Theresa M. Brousseau; SCI Coal Twp. Employees Rec. Association; Merritt J. McAlinden.

Nellie Nezerski from Mary Jane Toccket.

Alfred Nezerski Jr. from Mary Jane Toccket.

Edward Brown from Ann and John Benedict.

William T. Coates from Barbara and Brian Coates.

John and Margaret Barber from Mr. and Mrs. Donald VanShura.

James and Delores VanShura from Mr. and Mrs. Donald VanShura.

Lawrence Bartol from American Heritage Federal Credit Union; Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Christiana; LeeAnne Kaminsi; Jim and Pattie Kelley and family; Mr. and Mrs. John McKay; Ronald and Christine Anderson; Mrs. Elizabeth Gilger and family; Bill and Virginia Korbich; Mike and Jane Klembara; Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Bradley; Robert and Diane DiDomizio; Rich and Christine DiDomizio; Curt and Tina DiDomizio; Mary DiDomizio; Simone McCaffrey; Gloria Bechtel.

Agnes Dixon from Ann and John Benedict; Howard and Theresa Sandri.

A. Theresa Bucanelli from Mr. and Mrs. Barry Smith; Joann Higgins; Carol Krajewski's BPS Co-workers; Gloria Allen; Heidi Bradbury; Peaches Francis; Jim Luciandri; Eugenra Tucker; Sharon Vincent; Mount Carmel Municipal Authority; Ann Jones; Kathy and Angelica Masser; John and Donna Molesevich; Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Fleming; Ann and Richard Weikel; Don and Joannie Yuricich; Dennis and Kathy Holleran and family; Bill and Virginia Korbich; Mary Ann Balonis; Rose and Laura Lee Spatzer and family; Donna Yanick; Beverly Cooper; Elizabeth O'Neill-Eiding.

Boris Maksmuk from Knights of Columbus Council 628.

Lorraine T. Kushner from Joann Higgins

Thomas H. Tidey from Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wurster; Donna and Barry Lentz.

Rosaire Miller from Michael and Jane Klembara; Juls and Esther Ardan; Dave and LeeAnna Talisesky; Mr. and Mrs. Tony Billas.

Frank Navrocki from Ed and Rosemary Pawelczyk; Mr. and Mrs. Jack Strausser; Joe and Anna Marie Leavens; Tracey J. Wilson.

Mary Miller from Barbara Reiprish; Bill and Virginia Korbich; Arlene and Joseph Letcavage.

Grace Getchey from Bob and Diane (Garancheski) Bradley; Mr. and Mrs. Gene Garancheski; John and Joanne McKay.

Florence Sewalk from Bill and Virginia Korbich

Paul Hepler Sr. from Richard and Ann Weikel.

Christy A. Mirack from George Miller.

Geraldine Mirack from George Miller.

Frank Maresca from Steph and Ann Weikel.

Robert Mackey from Kathy and Angelica Masser; Leo and Mary Mulhall

Barbara Lucia Knarr from Christine Hudson; Daniel and Jacqueline Kerris; Mr. and Mrs. Donald VanShura; Mr. and Mrs. Donald Yuricich; Eugene and Theresa Fleming; Richard and Ann Weikel; Mr. and Mrs. Don VanShura.

"Pay" Chiavaroli from Mr. and Mrs. Barry Lentz.

Linda Schill Makowski from Michael and Jane Klembara; Ann and Richard Weikel; Bill and Betty Ann Corrigan.

Daniel Bamford from Mr. and Mrs. Barry Lentz.

Rose Bakowicz from Mr. and Mrs. Barry Lentz.

Jim and Pat Rosini from Richard Knoebel.

William Rosini from Richard Knoebel.

Emily Rosini from Richard Knoebel.

Debbie Korbich from Richard Knoebel.

Phyllis Holland from Mary Anne, George, Elise and Jillian Randall; James Holland.

Alice Shiffer from Ann and John Benedict; Howard and Theresa Sandri.

Hannah M. Honabach from Don and Joanne Yuricich; Bill and Virginia Korbich; Rita Albert.

Edward "Red" Brown from Don and Joanne Yuricich.

Delores Bickelman from Howard and Theresa Sandri.

Geraldine Mannix from Andy and Ann Marie Slodysko.

Allen Emerick from Jane Konyar; Bob S. Troutman.

Rosemary Dougherty from Forchy and Rocco Roma.

June Eby from Mary Jane Toccket.

William Burk Sr. from Mary Jane Toccket.

Mary Rosini from Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Bunde.

Carman J. Minniti from Robert J. and Mary Ellen Landy.

Edward Polites Sr. from Judith Polites.

Pat Pellman from Joanne Scotko.

Elizabeth Lukonis from Mr. and Mrs. John Reiprish.

Joseph Nacinovich from Mr. and Mrs. John Reiprish.

Tommy Povleski from Laura Mertz.

Alma Haile Donath from Alexis A. Kieski; Rose and Al Zawalick and family; Terri (Moran) Shipe; Maria and Jeff Pancher and family; Kevin and Bridget Metrocavage and family; Howard and Theresa Sandri; Paul Metrocavage and Anne; Catherine, Bill, Jason, Tricia and Jeremy Haile; Betty A. Shimko; Paul and Pat Metrocavage.

Walter Kosmer from Mr. and Mrs. Donald Yuricich.

Margaret C. Klembara from Robert A. and Diane Sieklicki; Frank and Mary Bach; Michael and Anita Klembara; Andrew Klembara; Melissa Klembara; Joseph and Jennifer Gubernot; Daniel and Jacqueline Kerris and family; Michael and Jane Klembara.

Michael G. Klembara from Michael and Jane Klembara.

Francis Mike Devlin from Richard and Ann Weikel and family; Judy and Eileen Weikel.

William Dando from Knights of Columbus Council 628.

Stanley R. Rebilas from Howard and Theresa Sandri; Ann and John Benedict.

Victoria Zarko from Mr. and Mrs. John Reiprish; Dennis and Barbara Reiprish.

Doris L. Tyler from Mary Ann Balonis.

Adolph Ciborowski from Leo and Mary Mulhall.

Joseph M. Shamansky from Mr. and Mrs. Gene Garancheski.

In honor of:

Mr. and Mrs. Howard Sandri by Mr. and Mrs. Barry Lentz.

Shamokin-Coal Township

Monday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; yoga, 9:30 a.m.; Walk A Mile, 10:30 a.m.; nickel bingo, noon; executive board meeting, noon; members meeting, 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; shopping at Boscov's, arrive at destination at 10 a.m., depart for home at 1 p.m., cost $2; bridge lessons, 9:30 a.m.; bridge, noon; aquacize, 2:30 p.m.

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

Thursday - Morning cards, 8:30 a.m.; Linda Walker from Focus Health speaking on laughter, noon; bingo, 12:30 p.m.; aquacize, 1:30 p.m.

Friday - Morning cards and puzzles, 8:30 a.m.; nickel bingo, noon.

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

Mount Carmel

Monday - HSIM, 11 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; bean bag, 12:30 p.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Tuesday - Chit chat, 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; Unlucky 7s, 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday - Springtime Jingo, 10:30 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; lunch, 11:30 a.m.; members meeting with bingo to follow, 1 p.m.

Thursday - Wii bowling, 9:30 a.m.; puzzle time, 10 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; pinochle, 12:15 p.m.

Friday - Chit Chat, 10 a.m.; sing a long, 10:30 a.m.; favorite TV game shows, 11 a.m.; lunch, 11:45 a.m.; Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Kulpmont

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

Tuesday - Wii, knitting and noodle balloon in the morning; Family Medical blood pressure screening; pinochle-cards, noon.

Wednesday - Wii, knitting and noodle balloon in the morning; bunco and LCR, 12:30 p.m.

Thursday - Wii competition between members, 10 a.m,; trip to the Vo-Tech; members meeting with bingo to follow, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Wii, knitting and noodle balloon in the morning; nickel bingo, 12:30 p.m.

Elysburg

Monday - Healthy Steps, 8:30 a.m.; Pokeno, noon.

Wednesday - Healthy Steps, 8:30 a.m.; bingo, noon.

Friday - Last day for volunteers to be at the center for state and federal taxes, 9 a.m. to noon. Service is free for seniors and by appointment only; crafts, 9:30 a.m.; pinochle, noon. Members meeting, noon. This will also be Donut Day.

Trevorton

Monday - Exercise, 10 a.m.; Easter party, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday - VNA blood sugar and blood pressure screening, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.; Wii bowling practice, 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday - Wii bowling match with Northumberland SAC team 1, 9:30 a.m., followed by Unlucky 7's.

Thursday - Scrabble, 9;30 a.m.; members meeting, 12:30 p.m.

Friday - Exercise with Amy, 10:30 a.m.; bingo, 12:30 p.m.