Probe continues in man’s death

COAL TOWNSHIP — The death of a 44-year-old Coal Township man was from “other than natural causes,” Northumberland County Coroner James F. Kelley said Monday.

The body of Robert Powell was found Nov. 1 in a vacant lot at Owl and Wood streets.

Kelley made the determination following an autopsy and toxicology tests on Nov. 2. After the findings, Kelley said he discussed the death and circumstances with Powell’s son, Chris Powell.

The cause and manner of Robert Powell’s death is not being released due to an ongoing investigation by Kelley, Coal Township police Detective Jeffrey Brennan and the Northumberland County district attorney’s office.

Sunbury Shrine Club makes donations

SUNBURY —The Sunbury Shrine Club made a number of donations during 2008.

At a recent meeting, the board of directors donated $2,000 to the Irem Transportation Fund, $750 to the Philadelphia Hospital and $250 to the Boston Burns Center.

Through parade participation, the club’s motor corps was able to donate $600 to the Irem Transportation Fund, $200 to the Philadelphia Hospital and $200 to the burns center. Motor corps meetings are held following the club’s board meetings.

The club recently held a Christmas dinner ladies night at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Selinsgrove. Eighty people attended. After the dinner, officers and directors elected to serve for 2009 were introduced and installed.

The club transported 26 patients to the children’s hospital in Philadelphia in 2008.

The club’s fundraisers and trips for 2009 were announced.

Sunbury Shrine Club officers for 2009 are as follows: William L. Bryan, president; Maurice E. Clouser, vice president; Al Deans, secretary; and Malcom Delsite Jr., treasurer.