THARPTOWN - Reports of a handgun tossed from a vehicle traveling over Veterans Memorial Bridge in Sunbury proved unfounded following a traffic stop Wednesday on Route 61 in Coal Township.

Another motorist reported seeing a handgun tossed from a Ford Freestyle and over the bridge. Both motorists were traveling into Sunbury.

State police caught up with the Ford Freestyle traveling south on Route 61 and with the cooperation of Coal Township and Ralpho Township police officers, initiated the traffic stop shortly after 3:10 p.m. just south of the Cameron Bridge.

Southbound traffic was initially put to a halt as eight police vehicles converged on the area, some stopped side-by-side and one cruiser facing north in the southbound lane. The traffic backed up beyond a traffic light at Hospital Road.

The driver and a front-seat passenger, both females, were questioned by state troopers on the side of the road. They were returning from Evangelical Hospital in Lewisburg, where a rear-seat passenger had undergone surgery on his leg, according to Trooper Dan Wilk of state police at Stonington.

Wilk said they consented to a search which turned up nothing. Other units were sent to the area of Veterans Memorial Bridge and found no signs of a handgun.

Officers were initially on high alert because of the report, Wilk said. But nothing was found, with Wilk adding that if something had been thrown from the vehicle he didn't believe it was a handgun.

About 10 minutes passed before the police vehicles were moved to the berm, allowing traffic to pass.

After speaking to the passengers and checking their identification, the driver of the Ford Freestyle was permitted to leave about 3:50 p.m. No one was arrested and no citations were issued.

'Help Hope Live' on Saturday

Help Hope Live for Gary Kehler will begin at 6 p.m. Saturday at Brady Fire Company in Ranshaw. The cost is $25 and seating is limited. Admission includes beer, buffet and entertainment from Marla and the Juniper Street Band starting at 7 p.m. Call Cheryl Slotterback at 570-527-6383 or Tammy Szuler at 570-898-0609 for tickets or for more information.

SHAMOKIN - Who knew "shopping small" could be such a big deal?

The Brush Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce is thrilled that 20 city businesses have joined in its effort to promote Small Business Saturday, the national effort at bringing smaller businesses into the holiday shopping mix on the heels of Black Friday.

In 2012, sales from Small Business Saturday nationwide generated an estimated $5.5 billion in revenue.

It's the fourth year for the national event, but the first year for an organized effort by the Shamokin-based chamber.

"Small Business Saturday was created with the premise of shopping small," said Whitney Fetterman, chamber director. "Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy and typically give back to their communities. We are honored to be able to support and promote our small businesses."

Any small business is encouraged to participate nationwide, and that can be done without the assistance of a third-party organization like the chamber. However, Fetterman noted, "the Brush Valley chamber has a solid network of people who we can spread the word to easily."

Also, she noted the advertisement in today's edition of The News-Item that's helping spread the word to thousands more through print and online editions.

Participants, which are offering specials or other promotions as part of the event, include Harry's Bar and Grill, Central Penn Physical Therapy, Bader's Furniture, AREA Services, First National Bank, H&R Block, Maurer's Dairy, Rob's Good Time Grill, M&T Bank, The Fun Shop, Beverly's Flowers, The Game Shack, Ye Olde Coin Shoppe, The WhatNot Shoppe Café, The News-Item, Susquehanna Bank, Original Italian Pizza, Shuey Jeweler's, The Center for Movement Arts and Herb's Mobile Repair Services LLC.

Also, the chamber thanks Durdach Bros Inc. for making the Small Business Saturday banner that is on display in downtown Shamokin.

Of all the early starts to Black Friday, none locally beats the Kmart at the Schuylkill Mall in Frackville, which opens at 6 a.m. today.

Not Friday. Today.

Big Lots follows at 7 a.m., but other anchors Sears and Bon-Ton and the mall itself won't open until 8 p.m. today.

Earlier each year

"Shopping is pushing more and more into Thanksgiving each year," said Elaine Maneval, general manager.

Indeed that's the case, because the Susquehanna Valley Mall and Columbia Mall join Schuylkill in having earlier hours this year.

Susquehanna Valley opens at 8 p.m. today compared to midnight last year and Columbia will open all of its anchors - JC Penney, Sears, Bon-Ton and Dunham Sports - at 8 p.m. as well. Last year, only Sears opened at that time on Thanksgiving. Also, four other stores will open at midnight tonight compared to 5 a.m. last year at the Columbia Mall.

Also, the Coal Township Walmart, which doesn't technically close, has bumped up the start time for its Black Friday sales by two hours this year to 6 p.m.

Across Route 61 at The Plaza at Coal Township, Peebles is open from 6 p.m. today to 1 a.m. Friday, then reopens from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday. Last year, the Thursday hours were 8 p.m. to midnight.

Two other plaza retailers, meanwhile, will remain dark today in observance of the holiday. Cato and Radio Shack won't open until 7 and 8 a.m. Friday, respectively.

Small businesses, too

Beyond the malls, several Shamokin businesses will be operating today, too.

Primitive Country House at 22 W. Pine St., Shamokin, will host a Christmas open house from 1 to 5 p.m. for the seventh year.

"It's a tradition that's carried over from the previous owner," said current owner Kelly Ebersole.

Free gifts will be offered to the first 25 customers. There will also be specials throughout the store, door prizes and refreshments.

Ebersole agrees with the notion that Thanksgiving marks the start of the Christmas season and has no reservations about opening on the holiday. By the time dinner is cleaned up, she said many men are plopped in front of the television watching football.

"Women like to craft, so we're out crafting," she said.

Rob's Good Time Grill, Market and Spruce streets, Shamokin, will open at 4 p.m. today. There will be a short-order menu and drink specials and the regular Thursday night feature - hot wings for $4.75 a dozen.

"I just like to have a place open and available for those bored in the evening or who don't have as many family members to visit," said Pam Pesarchick, owner. "They're looking for some food or somewhere to go out and share some spirits with others."

NFL games will be on the many televisions inside Rob's, and 6-packs, 12-packs and wine coolers will be available for takeout.

"Most of the (beer) distributors won't be open, so that's another advantage to being open," Pesarchick said.

The restaurant is open Black Friday, too, featuring it's steak night specials. "Fresh cut and aged," she said, adding that Black Friday shoppers are welcome to drop in, fill up and relax.

If you've ever bought a barbecue chicken dinner that came in a Styrofoam container, an arm's length of raffle tickets at a church hall or a night's worth of food, beer and entertainment for $20, chances are, you did so for a good cause.

Benefit events are scheduled seemingly every weekend in the coal region: pig roasts, poker runs, Chinese auctions, bingos, 5K runs, gun raffles - you name it. There's a Turkey Trot 5K Walk/Run this morning to benefit Shamokin Rotary, and a dinner and music benefit Saturday at Brady Fire Company to benefit Gary Kehler, a local man suffering from multiple health issues.

The success of such events varies, but it's clear these events have become a vital way to raise cash fast, and that cash is coming from the pockets of folks from a largely depressed area.

Maybe the pockets in the local area aren't so big, but residents' hearts sure can be.

"When there are families in need, our town always seems to come together," said Tami Sessions, of Shamokin.

Her son, 16-year-old Matthew, was born with cerebral palsy and is confined to a wheelchair. Sessions and her family are working to raise money - upwards of $60,000 - toward the purchase of a handicapped van with a chair lift. Matthew has become too large for Sessions to lift in and out of a vehicle, and she says the van is now a necessity.

Sessions' sister, Tina Wilk, organized a $15 night in September at the Rescue Fire Company in Shamokin. Nearly $6,000 was raised, and a fund in Matthew's name at Susquehanna Bank, Independence Street, Shamokin, is approaching $10,000, she said.

Sessions said she was overwhelmed by the community response, both by the number of donations area businesses and others made to the Chinese auction and by the number of people who turned out for the event.

"It kind of humbled me to know that our community comes together. I didn't know a lot of the people that were there," she said. "To know people care about him, it's just amazing."

Memorial golf

Peggy Delorso's own heart was broken when her son, Michael Spade Jr., committed suicide in 2012 when he was an 18-year-old freshman at Coastal Carolina University. Michael had been abusing prescription medication and marijuana leading up to his suicide, his mother said. He was attending the university on a golf scholarship. He had a passion for the game, something Delorso credits to his father, Michael Sr. He also had a soft spot for the Shamokin and Coal Township areas, a hometown he was fond of.

When a memorial golf tournament was held in his memory in May, eight months after his death, Delorso was still too devastated to play much of a role in organizing the event.

She didn't have to. Friends and family were in full control, organizing the event at Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Course, where Michael had worked about three years. More than 200 people showed up on a rainy day to golf, some for the first time. About $8,000 was raised. To date, the Michael R. Spade Jr. Memorial Golf Fund at M&T Bank has $11,000, Delorso said.

"I was just overwhelmed with the outpouring of how much people just really cared about my son and the impact he had made. What a positive thing it is to feel that after such a tragedy," said Delorso, of Coal Township.

His father felt much the same. "It's still shocking to me now. ... Hopefully something good can come out of it," Michael Spade Sr. said.

Both Delorso and Spade hope the event will be held annually, not just to raise funds for a yet-to-be determined cause - perhaps something involving kids and sports, likely Michael's favorites of golf and basketball - but also to raise awareness of drug abuse and suicide.

"I think the drug thing right now is so overwhelming and disgusting and horrible. It's happening to such great families around here," she said.

'Awesome' people

Lower Northumberland County is no stranger to devastating fires. There are many each year.

Seth Ian Thompson lost almost everything when his home was among four properties on West Girard Street in Atlas destroyed by fire on Oct. 1. Ten days later in the Boydtown section of Coal Township, neighbors Robert Wheary and Antoinette Scicchitano saw their adjacent homes go up in flames, too.

All three had insurance to some degree.

Thompson said his insurance would cover the cleanup of the fire debris and some contents, but not much else. Friends felt he was in need and organized a trio of benefits at Jakes, Dorko's and the Elks, all in Mount Carmel.

Thompson said he was a bit apprehensive about having a benefit held for him, not to mention three benefits. "I had a hard time with it at first," he said.

He saw a lot of the same faces at the events, and each one was "awesome."

"A lot of people care. Now I know how many people actually care and would help it a bad situation," Thompson said.

He's staying with friends in Locust Gap where he'll have Thanksgiving dinner today. His experience reinforced his own desire to go out of his own way to "pay it forward."

"I'm really grateful to have a lot of good people that I know, and the ones that didn't know me who helped," he said.

Wheary was just as grateful for a joint benefit held for him and Scicchitano Nov. 23 at Shamokin's Knights of Columbus. Approximately $3,500 was raised.

"The turnout was more than I ever expected," he said. "You couldn't even move back there."

"We say this town comes together," Wheary said.

Help from 1,300 miles away

There are occasions when locals' goodwill extends beyond the borders of Northumberland County, far beyond.

Jessica Mirarchi, of Kulpmont, was 1,300 miles away when deadly tornadoes touched down in Moore, Okla. Count her among the many across the country who was shaken by the news of 23 deaths, hundreds of injuries and millions of dollars in damages.

"I have two kids, and it's like, what would I do if I lost everything?" she said.

Mirarchi initiated a toy and clothing drive, and Kulpmont's East End Fire Company allowed her to store the donated goods there. Residents turned out to give what they could. A Geisinger employee brought 20 bags of toys donated by fellow hospital employees.

"I couldn't have done it without (the donors). My four bags wouldn't have been enough," Mirarchi said.

A box truck was stuffed full of donations but, ultimately, she had no way to get them to Oklahoma. Instead, the goods were sold to USAgain for $1,000, which she donated in a single check to the Danville area chapter of the American Red Cross. The money was expressly donated to assist the tornado victims.

She said the monetary donation proved more useful than the toy and clothing donations because many victims had no place to put the goods.

"$1,000 is a lot of water, a lot of food, a lot of diapers," Mirarchi said.

SHAMOKIN - City officials have roughly one month to erase a $600,000-plus deficit from the 2014 budget.

Councilmembers voted 5-0 during a special meeting Wednesday to adopt a preliminary version of next year's general fund budget with revenues projected at $2,316,506.01 and expenses projected at $2,932,587.58.

That leaves a $616,081.58 shortfall that must be accounted for before a final general fund budget is adopted before the new year.

"I have never, ever, ever seen a deficit like this in my entire life," said city Treasurer Brenda Scandle.

Several city councilmembers agreed. William Strausser, R. Craig Rhoades and Michael Snyder all said after the meeting they were shocked by the deficit figure.

The 2013 general fund budget was balanced at $2,558,538.93.

Councilman William Milbrand said he believed expenses aren't being accounted for correctly and have misrepresented potential budget figures. "I can't see how we get a true budget from this paperwork," he said, gesturing to the preliminary budget figures.

There are increases in health insurance, liability insurance, workman's compensation, police department overtime, legal expenses and other line items across most city departments. Tax revenue remains estimated about the same as in 2013.

Council adopted a resolution for solicitor H. Robert Mattis to again petition Northumberland County Court to keep real estate taxes assessed at 30 mills, 5 mills higher the maximum allowed by law.

The preliminary budget is now available for public review. A special meeting of city council will be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 30 to vote on a final version of a 2014 general fund budget.

Discussions on how to erase the deficit are expected at a council workshop slated for 6 p.m. Dec. 4. The next regular meeting, or voting session, of city council is scheduled for 7 p.m. Dec. 9.

In two other votes unrelated to the budget, councilmen fired deputy treasurer Kelly Haines, on recommendation by Scandle, and rejected a police union grievance concerning dental insurance.

A city council meeting that had been scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday has been canceled.

FORT INDIANTOWN GAP - Sgt. 1st Class Andrew M. Hardy was selected as non-commissioned officer of the year for 1st Battalion, 166th Regiment (armor) and attended the Regimental NCO of the Year Board on Nov. 16.

Hardy is the course manager and head instructor for armor advanced leader course at Fort Indiantown Gap. He several cycles of the course each year to soldiers from all over the U.S.

Hardy has been a tank commander, brigade operations NCO, platoon sergeant and acting first sergeant before becoming an instructor and course manager. He has graduated from Army basic instructors course, small group instructors course, advanced non-commissioned officers course, basic non-commissioned officers course, M1A1 tank commander certification course and primary leadership development course.

He is currently a school board director for the East Pennsboro School District and is employed by the Pennsylvania Office of Administration as the storage area network manager.

He is a 1993 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School, a 1998 graduate of Susquehanna University with a bachelor's degree in communications and 2007 graduate of Duquesne University with a master's degree in leadership and information technology.

Deer display begins today

MOUNT CARMEL - The Mount Carmel Lions Club holiday deer display begins today in town park.

Extra fencing has been installed as a result of regulations to prevent feeding of the deer by the public, as now required by the state Department of Agriculture.

The Lions intend to install a better viewing fence for next year's display.

The club appreciates the large number of donations that make the project possible. Special thanks goes to the West End Athletic Club and the Mount Carmel VFW.

COAL TOWNSHIP - At 5:30 p.m. Thanksgiving evening, there were six cars in the Peebles parking lot at The Plaza at Coal Township.

Across Route 61 at Walmart, by contrast, there were maybe six empty parking spaces.

In the end, the smaller retailer held its own, with Peebles luring shoppers in for some great "Brown Thursday" specials - including on electronics, something it doesn't typically sell.

But the doorbusters at Walmart drew the expected much larger crowd.

The local Thanksgiving day shopping experience seemed typical of what was experienced nationwide as

more large retailers opened on the holiday, or even earlier on the holiday, rather than waiting for today's Black Friday and the traditional start to the holiday shopping season.

The National Retail Foundation estimates that Thursday's big shopping day will help stores reach an estimated $602 billion in sales for the last two months of the year. 3.9 percent higher than last year.

$49 'tablet'

By the time Peebles manager Kirk Kauffman turned the key to let shoppers in, approximately 20 people had gathered inside the vestibule.

"The big deal we have tonight is a $49 Android tablet," Kauffman said. "We had four last year and they went quick, so we are hoping to do the same this year."

It was the one item Robin Tidewell, of Shamokin, was looking for.

"I hardly ever go shopping on Black Friday, but I thought the deal was too good to pass up," she said.

Marguerite Hubler, of Kulpmont, had the same assessment on a $40 pair of jeans she got for $14.99.

"I'm always here shopping, but that is just too good of a deal to pass up," she said.

Kauffman also noted the store's sales on designer fragrances, "which hardly ever go on sale," and some great deals on ladies sportswear.

"We won't try to compete with the store across the road," he said. "We are a little more high end."

The first 50 Peebles customers Thursday night got scratch-off cards for extra discounts. Forty-eight were worth $10, but one card was a $50 gift certificate and another was a $100 gift certificate.

Another 50 cards were scheduled to be given away at 6 a.m. today, and the featured item this morning is a $20 digital camera.

Beth Collins, of Shamokin, used her $10 discount toward a pair of $19.99 boots that normally retail for $75.

"These days, with prices as they are, every little bit helps," Collins said.

Kauffman was encouraged by the turnout and is hopeful for a good holiday shopping season.

"I wasn't here last year, but this store had a great turnout, so I am anticipating doing the same, if not better, this year," he said.

$98 TV

At Walmart, parking was at a premium. When the lot filled, shoppers used the grass along the west side of the entrance road to park. Collins, the Peebles shopper, had noted she saw people from jumping the guardrail and crossing the highway on foot to get to Walmart from the plaza.

The throngs of shoppers waited in long lines to score some great discounts, including a 32-inch LCD TV for $98 and an Apple iPad mini for $299 that came with a $100 gift card.

Some sold-out items left shoppers disappointed, but others were saved by a new Walmart policy: a one-hour in-stock guarantee. Certain items on sale were given this distinction and, after the store ran out of stock on hand, if it was still within the 60 minutes, shoppers received a voucher. With it, they could purchase the item Thursday, register a code online and have it delivered to the store for pickup in time for Christmas.

Still, some shoppers had a frazzled nerve or two inside the crowded store.

"I just want to get out of here," one was overheard saying. "This is supposed to be a day when people are nice to one another."

Driver taken into custody

SHAMOKIN - A Paxinos man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence follow a traffic stop at 1:45 a.m. Thursday on Route 61 near Sixth Street in the city.

State police at Stonington said Paul Shingara, 54, of 4504 Route 61, was initially stopped for a suspected traffic violation. He was placed in custody and transported to Geisinger-Shamokin Area Community Hospital for testing.

Police said charges are pending the results.

Cell phone found

TREVORTON - A cell phone found on Nov. 24 was turned over to Zerbe Township Police. The owner may claim it by calling police at 570-797-4637.

by peter e. bortner

FOUNTAIN SPRINGS - Anyone who wants to own the former Saint Catherine Medical Center Fountain Springs will get his or her chance when it goes on the auction block at 9 a.m. today at the 101 Broad St. property.

"Anybody can show up," said William G. Schwab, the Lehighton lawyer who is serving as trustee in bankruptcy for the property's owner.

Schwab, who will be conducting the sale with the auctioneer, Houser Associates, Schnecksville, said he has advertised the property in three states, and it has not gone unnoticed.

"There has been some interest," Schwab said. "It will be offered for sale."

Schwab declined to say definitely if anyone will bid on the property, nor would he reveal the identity of any possible bidders.

Today's auction will mark another step in the labyrinthine process that has lasted more than 1 1/2 years since the hospital's last owner, Saint Catherine Hospital of Pennsylvania LLC, filed for bankruptcy April 9, 2012, in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Wilkes-Barre.

Saint Catherine Hospital of Pennsylvania asked the court to allow it to reorganize, originally filing the petition as a Chapter 11 reorganization case. However, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge John J. Thomas on April 18, 2012, converted the case to a Chapter 7 liquidation.

The state Department of Health has revoked the 107-bed hospital's license and its approximately 150 employees have been left out of work.

Founded as the State Hospital for Injured Persons of the Anthracite Coal Region at Fountain Springs by the state Legislature in 1879, the construction of the original facility began in May 1880 and was completed in 1882.

Thomas has ruled the proceeds from the sale, after certain expenses, taxes and municipal claims, must be held in Schwab's escrow account pending final determination of distribution.

Schwab said any sale will include both the 160,000-square-foot building and the 20 acres on which it sits, Schwab said.

Furthermore, any buyer must be prepared to pay on the spot, he said.

"We will take a certified check ... cash ... or a personal or business check from an approved individual, normally with a letter of credit," Schwab said.

He said there also will be a sale of personal property from the former hospital, and that could attract more people to the auction.

"Traditionally, the day after Thanksgiving has attracted a lot of men whose wives are out shopping," Schwab said.

He said there also has been progress on other fronts of the case, including a resolution of the claim filed by Capital Blue Cross and a pending distribution of $400,000, subject to approval by Thomas, to the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

"Hopefully, we'll have a distribution to the union before Christmas," Schwab said.

He also said that he is negotiating with another individual, whom he did not name, to take over the medical records from the former hospital.

Butler Township supervisors Chairman David Kessler said Monday that he, like a lot of area citizens, is looking past the auction.

"I think we're all just looking at it to see what it will turn into," Kessler said.

Kessler would like to see the new owner convert the property into a source of employment, which is badly needed in the region.

"Naturally, a nursing home probably would be a good fit," he said.

The township also is anxiously awaiting word on how much, if anything, it will receive in back taxes, according to Kessler.

"We've got to stand in line" for those, he said.

SHAMOKIN - Before the WhatNot Shoppe Cafe opened Thursday to serve a free Thanksgiving meal, owner and chief cook Cindy Carpenter heard a knock at the door.

It wasn't an anxious diner. It was another person dropping off money and food, doing their part to support the community effort.

"It's the true meaning of Thanksgiving," Carpenter said.

WhatNot offered its facility as a place to serve the meal in conjunction with God's Chuckwagon, the mobile soup kitchen that operates one day each week in Shamokin and Mount Carmel.

It was one of two free meals offered Thursday in Shamokin. Another free meal was offered in Kulpmont.

Great response

Carpenter said her restaurant filled up as soon as the doors opened.

"This is our first year doing it, and it's been such a great response," she said.

Carpenter said the best part was seeing people of all kinds come together.

"If you look back at our history, the pilgrims and Indians did not like each other, but they sat together and broke bread," she said. "On this day, it doesn't matter if you're red, white, brown - we are all the same in God's eyes."

Carpenter thanked Salem United Church of Christ for providing pies and rolls, members of Our Lady of Hope Church for their assistance - and God's Chuckwagon founders Jim and Janet Bowers for the inspiration.

"I watched them Tuesday serve meals in the blustery wind, and so and my heart was just touched," Carpenter said. "All I could do was call them angels for what they do."

Real mashed potatoes

Thursday marked the third annual community Thanksgiving dinner at Restoration Ministries. It wasn't simply the amount of food that was served that impressed Pastor Paul Eby; it was the number of people who came out to help.

"We had people here taking care of every little facet of the dinner," Eby said. "Everything got done in no time.

"We even had enough help here to peel 90 pounds of potatoes to make real mashed potatoes, not instant," he added.

Francine Jones, head cook, said the church hosts a soup kitchen each week, but she looks forward to the Thanksgiving meal.

"I will have my big Thanksgiving meal with my family this weekend, but I love preparing for this and serving everyone," Jones said.

Eby and Jones wish more people would come to the dinner.

"The important thing for them to know is that someone cares about them and there is a place for them to enjoy the holiday," Jones said.

Fellowship for all

At Holy Angels Church, Kulpmont, a crew of volunteers was busy roasting turkeys on Tuesday and preparing side dishes Wednesday, said Paul Niglio.

"When we came in this morning, it was just setting the place up and heating the food," he said

Between takeout meals and people sitting to eat, Niglio estimated 150 meals were served.

"It's great to see people coming together for this time of fellowship," he said. "No one needs to be alone on this day."

MOUNT CARMEL -The MCA Junior High Pride award winners for October have been announced. The seventh-grade winner is Ava McGee, a daughter of John and Elizabeth McGee, of Mount Carmel. Ava loves working with art and participates in Odyssey of the Mind. She is on the cross country and junior high basketball teams. Ava is a previous winner of the Merit Award and Elks Junior Teen of the Month and is on the Distinguished Honor Roll.

The eighth-grade winner is Tyler Golazeski, a son of Ross and Tammy Golazeski, of Locust Gap. Tyler is on the honor roll and enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with his friends and family. His love for music led him to become part of the symphonic and marching bands at Mount Carmel.

MOUNT CARMEL - Donations to the Mount Carmel Area Public Library makes a difference in the lives of children and families in local communities. The last day for donations to qualify for a 2013 tax deduction is Dec. 31.

Gifts can be noted "In honor" or "In memory" of a love one.

Donations are the most basic and important source of funds to the Mount Carmel Area Public Library, which is grateful for the following donations:

In honor of

Francis and Millie Callahan for your 70th anniversary from Joyce Yodis.

Birthday memorial

Mark Elgin from Uncle Carl and Aunt Rainy.

Joseph Guzevich from daughter, Irene Casari.

Anniversary memorial

Dorothy and Joseph Guzevich from daughter, Irene Casari.

In memory of

Marilyn Barella from Dan, Ruth Skonecki and family.

Joseph Berry from Joy Berry.

Franceschina Calabretta from Francis Filardo.

Phyllis Erdman from Mike and Joyce Mychak.

Mollie Harrison from James, Faith, Ann, James Jr. and Kayla Johns.

Catherine Hoskie from Bill and Marie Joraskie.

Joanne Kornacki from Pat Bartos family.

Dorothy A. Kratovich from Mary M. Rudisill.

SPC 4 Thomas Olearnick from sister and family.

Anna May Owens from Charles and Marian Muldowney; Alice O'Donnell; Mary M. Rudisill.

William Puketza from Mount Carmel Disabled Veterans Chapter 129.

Joe Purcell from Mount Carmel Catholic High School Class of 1954.

Victor Radzewicz Jr. from Joseph Hanna Jr.

Suzanne Reed from Helene and Jim Boylan.

Charles Rehnert from Lisa D'Amico and Bill McAndrew.

Enez L. Stetz from Jim and Gingie Britton, Clara Shuda.

Frances and Michael Sinshack from daughter, Rita.

Walter J. Wydra Jr. from wife and children Rita and Sharon and Tuckit.

Joseph Zukus from Cindy Drucis; Mount Carmel Disabled Veterans Chapter 129.

A special "thank you" is extended to members of the "I Grew Up In Mount Carmel" Facebook group: Margaret Cowles, Nancy Froutz, Diane DiFrancesco, Jane Cassel, Trisha Christopher, Judith Deplero and John Stockalis.

FOUNTAIN SPRINGS - There is no buyer for Saint Catherine Medical Center following a public auction Friday morning; however, there is an interested party.

Only one bid was placed on the 101 Broad St. property, which included the 160,000-square-foot building and 20 acres of land.

Steve J. Pitiak, New Jersey, matched the reserve price, or the lowest acceptable bid, of $250,000. Because it was a reserve sale, the property did not have to be sold to the highest bidder Friday.

"We now have a person who expressed interest in buying it and negotiations will continue," bankruptcy trustee William G. Schwab, said. "My job is to get the most amount of money I can for the creditors."

Schwab is a Lehighton lawyer.

Pitiak would not say Friday if he was representing a company nor would he comment on possible plans for the building.

Bankruptcy

The former owner of the building, Saint Catherine Hospital of Pennsylvania LLC, filed for bankruptcy on April 9, 2012, in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Wilkes-Barre. The hospital filed a petition to reorganize, but U.S. Bankruptcy Judge John J. Thomas ordered the liquidation of assets on April 18, 2012. On June 28, Schwab was authorized to sell the building and land.

Founded as the State Hospital for Injured Persons of the Anthracite Coal Region at Fountain Springs by the state Legislature in 1879, the construction of the original facility began in May 1880 and was completed in 1882.

Its closure left about 150 employees out of work.

"Because this is a bankruptcy, I am working here literally for the workers who have not been paid yet," Schwab said. "They are the first people who will get paid out of the money for the sale."

Houser Auctioneers, Schnecksville, conducted the sale. Proceeds from the sale will also go towards: Schwab's out-of-pocket expenses and 3 percent commission; notarization and recording fees and transfer taxes; a 3 percent commission for Houser Auctioneers; and unpaid real-estate taxes and other municipal claims.

The property is clear of all liens, claims, interests and encumbrances.

Lots of potential

Schwab said he was not surprised someone expressed interest in buying the property Friday.

"This building has a lot of potential," he said.

Moveable property was also auctioned off, with about 30 people in attendance. Items included office supplies, clocks, printers, furniture, filing cabinets, paintings, kitchen items among other things.

Schwab said he has a court order to shred the medical records from the former hospital.

"However, at this point in time I am negotiating with a third party to take them over and move them so they would not have to be destroyed," Schwab said.

He would not identify that potential buyer.

Not everyone at the auction Friday was looking to buy the building. Some were just wondering what will become of the former hospital.

Ed Kieski, of Paxinos, said a family member was at the hospital for a short time and had many friends who worked there.

"It was a heartbreak to see it go under," Kieski said Friday. "I'd love to see someone buy it and reopen it."

CENTRALIA - The stories of the current and former residents of Centralia affected by the mine fire and its impact will be part of a new documentary.

A few houses still dot the landscape in Centralia, but most of the land has been filled with high grass, weeds and trees. The only other signs of what was once a typical anthracite coal region town in Columbia County is a municipal building, a few family dwellings with garages and sheds, a cemetery, a time capsule to be opened in 2016 and side streets that go nowhere.

Bethlehem native Lys Sparrow, 35, came to Centralia in Columbia County earlier this year as a film student in broadcast journalism at The New York Film Academy to produce a short news story, but found much more than she expected.

"I came to Centralia to do a 10-minute news clip, but quickly realized there was a much bigger story to tell," Sparrow said. "Many people know about Centralia because of a technological disaster that happened in the '60s and still plagues the town today. I found the entire history about the city equally as fascinating, from a curse put upon the town by a priest dating back to the 19th century, to a group of Irish immigrants who were using terrorist acts in an attempt to control the commerce of the time, to a gruesome murder-suicide, or having the largest plane crash in aviation history before the 1950s, to name just a few of the happenings to befall Centralia."

Sparrow has been working for six months with cameraman Felix Anthony Jimenez on the 90-minute documentary entitled "ZIP Code 00000: What Happened in Centralia?" She plans to return to the borough today and Sunday to conduct additional interviews.

Open call

"I have an open call to residents and ex-residents so I can talk with them and hear their stories," said Sparrow, who hopes to get permission to use the municipal building for that purpose.

Anyone interested in speaking with Sparrow about Centralia can contact her at lyssparrow@gmail.com or at the website at www.zipcode00000.com.

"After I did my research, which I thought was just going to be about the coal fire and mining, I kept hearing all of these interesting thing that were just fascinating," Sparrow said. "I have about four interviews left, and then I'll start on post-production."

Getting interviews with Centralia residents past and present has been a challenge, Sparrow said.

"I think I was naïve about the sensibilities of the people when I came here because I thought everyone was going to want to talk," she said. "I found they weren't interested. They had spoken about the situation many times before and a lot of them thought that the story was never portrayed the right way. What I say to them is that's why I'm here. I'd like to hear your perspective in the documentary. Whatever you say is what you say. I can't change that."

More than a mine fire

The mine fire began in 1962 when a deliberately-set trash fire ignited a coal seam in a stripping pit, and after many attempts to extinguish the blaze with no effect, the federal government decided to buy out the residents to evacuate the town.

After a lengthy battle against state officials in federal court where the remaining residents fought eviction through eminent domain, a settlement was reached in U.S. District Court in late October that allows last eight residents to remain in their homes as long as they live. The settlement also included a cash payout totalling $349,500.

Sparrow said the story about Centralia is more than the mine fire.

"When I started researching, I found that Centralia is so fascinating, not just because of the mine fire, but also of the Molly Maguires," Sparrow said. "You say Molly Maguires' to people on the West Coast and they ask who are they. But if you've grown up on the East Coast, it's like embedded in you. Everybody knows who they are."

A major local contact who has assisted in the documentary process is Pattersonville resident David Briggs, an official with the United Mine Workers of America in its Hazleton office. Sparrow said Briggs, 50, became a pivotal resource in locating experts to provide accurate information about historical events. Sparrow also interviewed Briggs for the project.

"I love stuff like this," Briggs said. "I was at the union office in Hazleton when we got the call. I live only 10 miles from here and I know about coal mining and coal miner safety. I knew I could help here in getting certain contacts."

Briggs said the documentary is being produced the right way.

"What she is doing is covering the whole town, not just the mine fire. I think she's doing a great job," Briggs said.

Plenty of help

Sparrow received a lot of input from Girardville resident Tom Dempsey, a local historian and former Centralia postmaster, and Harrisburg resident David DeKok, author of "Fire Underground: The Ongoing Tragedy of the Centralia Mine Fire" and "Unseen Danger: A Tragedy of People, Government, and the Centralia Mine Fire."

"I'm applying for a documentary film grant with the San Francisco Film Fund, and I will also apply for a grant in the new year from the Sundance Institute for post-production and sound," Sparrow said. "I'm also considering bringing some other producers on who would fund editors - one is in Miami and another is in Australia."

When completed, the documentary should cost less than $100,000.

Sparrow also interviewed and consulted with Dr. George A. Turner, emeritus history professor at Bloomsburg University; Dr. Stephen R. Couch, department chair of sociology and professor of sociology at Penn State University, Schuylkill Haven; Dr. Harold Aurand Jr., historian and author of "Coal in the Region" who teaches at Penn State University, Schuylkill Haven; Dr. Jennifer Mary Elick, associate Professor of Earth and Environmental Science at Susquehanna University; Dr. Kenneth C. Wolensky, professional historian, author and biographer who teaches at Lebanon Valley College, Lebanon Valley, and president of Pennsylvania Historical Association; Thomas E. White, folklore historian at Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, and Stu Richards, historian, retired aviation electronics technician and author.

ZIP code

"The idea for the title of the documentary came after interviewing retired Centralia postmaster, Tom Dempsey, who now volunteers at the Schuylkill Historical Society," Sparrow said. "Tom tells us that in 2002 with less than 10 people left in the area, the neighboring town of Ashland took over the postal duties of Centralia and post office revoked the town's ZIP code."

Sparrow's last documentary, "Running with Arnold," was theatrically released in 2007 and was narrated by Alec Baldwin. For "ZIP CODE 00000," Sparrow hopes to get a Pennsylvania-born celebrity to narrate the project. She is considering Kevin Bacon, Richard Gere or Bradley Cooper, all originally from Philadelphia.

As for the future of Centralia, Sparrow said, "I think what's going to happen is that the people will just leave and that will be the end of the story."

For more information about the project, go to www.zipcode00000.com.

SHAMOKIN - City police have issued summary warrants on two property owners who have allowed their properties to fall into disrepair.

Cpl. Bryan Primerano issued the warrants to Jhoel Leonardo, of 13201 95th Ave., South Richmond Hill, Queens, N.Y., and Ola A, Adedeji, no known permanent address, Monday, after they were cited a fifth time each by police for creating a public nuisance due to the conditions of properties they own in the city.

"This isn't about having them pay the fines or putting them in jail," Primerano said Friday. "It's about getting them in court to address the problem."

Both property owners have been cited five times by police after first being cited three times by city code enforcement officer Rick Bozza.

"In the past year, when Rick came into the office, we are really working together to crack down on these properties," Primerano said.

If no action is taken, officials will take their case to Magisterial District Judge John Gembic to upgrade the summary offenses to a misdemeanor charge of creating a public nuisance.

It is the same charge that Allentown landlord George Atiyeh faces because he failed to bring two Shamokin properties up to code. After a preliminary hearing, at which Atiyeh failed to appear, Gembic issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

In April, Atiyeh was given 60 days to bring properties at 506 Bear Valley Ave. and 549 S. Seventh St. up to code, but failed to do so.

In Leonardo's case, the warrant deals with a property at 625 E. Commerce St., which Bozza said is collapsing from the inside out.

Debris has fallen from the top floor to the first floor. Support beams are bending and a staircase has completely collapsed.

Looking from Pearl Street, a hole in the building has opened almost floor to ceiling.

Adedeji's property is located at 204-206 W, Mulberry St., between Market and Coal streets. According to Bozza, a side porch is in danger of collapsing, and the interior floors have already fallen. There is also four feet of standing water in the basement.

"These are some of the worst of the 20 properties we are working together to fix up," Primerano said. "We know that these owners are interested because the taxes are paid up to this year on them."

While police officers are always issuing warrants for criminals, Primerano said its the first time he can remember putting out a warrant on a property owner.

"These properties are among the most dangerous ones, and the potential is there to hurt someone or damage other properties," Primerano said. "It's time these problems are addressed."

Anyone with information on Leonardo's or Adedeji's whereabouts or how to contact them is urged to contact Shamokin City Police 570-648-5708.

MOUNT CARMEL - The following memorials were presented to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church:

Edward Chapman from wife, Mary.

Shirley and Walter Sadusky from Shirley and Barry Gilbert.

Rita and Guy Gilbert from Barry and Shirley Gilbert.

Nicky Bogush from Patsy.

Raymond from wife, Rita and daughters.

Mildred and Anna Krehel from Steve and Carole Krehel.

Joan (Boyle) Gergen from Steve and Carole Krehel.

Bob and Mae Boyle from Steve and Carole Krehel.

Edward Fleming Jr. from Helen Fleming.

John Rogutski (birthday) from Joan Owens.

William Chapman Sr. from daughter, Eileen.

Eddie Marshalek from mother, Sophie.

Sister Mary Paula Beierschmitt from Jeanne and Bob Zavatski.

Thomas Sebastian (birthday) from wife.

Mr. and Mrs. George Fetchick from Mary and Blair Ruths.

Andrew Mushalko (35th anniversary) from Millie Mushalko and family.

A person's character is defined as the qualities or features that distinguish themselves from everyone else. Some of the quali- ties are instilled at birth, while others are learned from the sit- uations a person encounters in life.

For Robert Scifo, he has transformed his hardships into a budding music career with a vision to entertain and provide support to the community he calls home.

Scifo, who performs under the stage name Casper, has been making hip-hop music since his teens. A native of New Jersey, he has been living in Pottsville for about 12 years after moving to be closer to his family. He has set up shop in the city, establishing his own record label, Max Out Entertainment, with a studio on East Norwegian Street. Through this label, he released his debut album, "The Untold Story," earlier this year.

"I feel music can change the world. Music is a powerful tool," Scifo, 30, said.

He speaks from personal experience. In 2001, Scifo ran into trouble with the law and was sentenced to prison. It was during this time that he rekindled his love of music. It began a journey of self discovery for the promising artist.

His music reflects on the struggles of that time and working his way back into life's good graces. He sees his music as a way to send a message that life is what you make it and you can make it anything you want.

"I use my music to uplift people," he said.

Today, Scifo is looking to help the people in his community. It's something he feels he needs and wants to do.

"That's the main thing. The main reason to do this is to give back to the community," Scifo said.

Scifo is a family man. He lives in Pottsville with his wife, Jennifer, and three children. His philanthropic endeavors reflect his life as a father.

He struck a deal with Burlington Coat Factory to provide 500 coats to underprivileged youth in the area. He said they are still finalizing the details but the drive should be held in December or January in Pottsville.

On Feb. 14, his entertainment group is hosting a concert at Penn State Schuylkill, in which 50 percent of the proceeds will be donated to THON. The largest student-run philanthropy in the world, THON is a two-day dance marathon at Penn State's main campus to raise money to combat pediatric cancer.

"It's about giving back no matter where you are in your career," Scifo said.

Recently, Scifo and his wife began organizing a charity collection for the Philippines. The island nation was struck by a powerful typhoon in November, killing 5,500 and leaving many in need of aid.

The drive is scheduled for today and Monday at Giant Food Store in Pottsville. Fanelli Trucking, Pottsville, is donating a truck and will deliver the goods to a United Nations dropoff.

While performing his duty to the community, Scifo is hoping to break the public's view of the hip-hop genre. It is one of the more scruntized genres for its views on life, money, sex and violence. However, Scifo said not all hip-hop is created to send those messages.

"I want people to realize that hip-hop is not always about the streets," he said.

He believes his work in the community can help shape a more positive image for his genre; however, that's not the only thing he hopes to change in Pottsville and Schuylkill County.

Like most cities in the U.S., Pottsville has a music scene but it lacks prevalence. He is looking to establish a more vibrant scene in the city with his music and label.

"We want to let people know that Pottsville does have talent. We are a city and cities have music scenes," Scifo said.

He said that at one time, the city did have a good scene, but it took a hit with the lack of resources, especially venues.

"Music is never going to die. It's the scene that dies," Scifo said.

To help establish a new scene, Scifo and Max Out Entertainment will be kicking off its Rep Your University tour Saturday with the 570 Bash at JT's Pub in Port Carbon.

"It's going to be a pretty good party," Scifo said, adding that JT's is looking to be a destination in the county for music acts.

The tour is scheduled to run until March, with stops at Penn State Schuylkill in February and in Bethlehem on March 1. Scifo said the tour's end date is not finalized and could extend into May. A portion of the proceeds from the tour will be donated to THON.

On the homefront, Scifo continues to expand Max Out Entertainment, recently signing a rock band from his home state of New Jersey. He is also always scouting local talent to add to his brand.

"We have two which we are working with from Schuylkill County. It's just a waiting process," he said.

As an artist, Casper is set to launch his second album, "Redemption," in 2014. He signed a deal with Dynasty Records to distribute in retail stores around the U.S. and the world. He said his music will be available in outlets such as Wal-Mart and Kmart, and a pre-order was opened in 12 states.

Also, Casper has his own page on MTV's website. In June, he shot a video for the music station on West Market Street in Pottsville. The video was released in July.

As he continues his climb in the music world, Scifo plans to continue giving back to his community. He said he wants to remember where he is from and help out as much as possible.

"I'm for the people. I am them," he said.

Marriage licenses

Keith J. Kulenguskey, of 1150 Pulaski Ave., Coal Township, to Rosyln Nairns, of 1011 W. Pine St., Coal Township. Issued Nov. 29, 2012.

Property transfers

US Bank NA (trustee) and Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (by trustee) to Brittany A. Mayton, property in Coal Township, $63,000.

Tilanga J. Fernandez to Robert Cloutier, property in Shamokin, $7.359.69.

Karen Sweet to Karen A. Long, property in Mount Carmel Township, $1.

Christine M. Hart and Steven Pollock to Alyssa B. Hart, property in Shamokin, $5,000.

REI Partners Inc. to Brian K. Schreffler and Sandra L. Mallatratt, property in Jackson Township, $1.

Albert A. Yurkiewicz (executor) and Mary Taylor (estate) to Albert A. Yurkiewicz, property in Coal Township, $5,000.

Victor E. Concini (estate), Lois J. Clark, Priscilla I. Kobelis to Randall J. Zigarski and Deneen E. Zigarski, property in Mount Carmel Township, $161,000.

Chris L. Long to Gratz Bank, property in Zerbe Township, $1.

Charles K. Smith and Carol L. Smith to Jill S. Bahner, property in Point Township, $1.

Emanuel A. Fisher and Amanda B. Fisher to Jason M. Schauer and Tera A. Schauer, property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

Emanuel A. Fisher and Amanda B. Fisher to David A. Fisher and Esther Mae Fisher, property in Rockefeller Township, $1.

Michael A. Tetkoskie and Patricia A. Tetkoskie and Anthony J. Tetkoskie, property in Coal Township, $1.

Donna M. Wilkison, Maurice E. Wilkison, Kay J. Knapp, Gerry E. Knapp, Sally A. Ross and Harvey L. Ross to Randall L. Ross, property in Ralpho T ownship, $75,000.

BKEP Materials LLC to Koch Materials LLC, property in Point Township, $10.

William Stankunas and Mary Ann Stankunas to Robert C. Dewitt III, property in Shamokin, $30,500.

Lynne M. Knock and Lynne M. Roscoe to Leslie Stanczyk, property in Mount Carmel, $28,000.

Scott J. Binsack Living Trust and Scott J. Binsack (trustee) to Vincent Tyrone Martz, property in Shamokin, $19,000.

James W. Snyder and Ronald L. Oxenrider to Gerald D. Deppen and Joette E. Deppen, property in Jackson Township, $1.

Martin J. Zablosky to Stephen A. Thompson and Jessie L. Yost, property in Shamokin, $39,900.