State Senator Cathy Young released the following statement after Governor David Paterson's State of the State address:
“Tax relief and economic growth are our state’s most pressing needs. Our families are having a terrible time trying to afford living here, and we desperately need more jobs. Instead of new spending, we should eliminate the proposed 151 new taxes and fees that hit the middle class squarely between the eyes. And, I’m hoping for more details from the Governor about stimulating small businesses and manufacturers.
“While I agree that one element of rebuilding our economy should be developing jobs related to clean energy, I was surprised that agriculture was not mentioned even once. I also was hoping that the Governor would bring up the Jamestown BPU’s oxy-coal plant.
"We have very tough times facing us, but we can’t tax and spend our way out of this crisis."
Listen to Young's statement HERE.
(Audio courtesy of Young's office. Thanks Matt!)
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
BRMC's ED Holds Open House
More than 120 people visited Bradford Regional Medical Center’s (BRMC) expanded and redesigned Emergency Department during an open house held Wednesday. Shown speaking during a tour to visitors were (from left) Donald Human, M.D., an Emergency Department physician; Theresa Potter, LPN, the Emergency Department’s triage liaison; and Deborah Price, BRMC’s senior vice president of Patient Care Services. The $3.5 million project, completed this past summer, was Phase II of BRMC’s overall “Building the Future” campus improvement plan. The Emergency Department doubled its size to increase efficiency and patient monitoring. Along with streamlined patient admission procedures, the Emergency Department expanded to 8,500 square feet to accommodate more beds. It now has the ability to add patient beds during “surge capacity,” meaning times of disaster or a sudden influx of individuals due to the flu, for example. Other improvements include the ability to treat 15 patients, two more than before; streamlined registration procedures; centralized location of physician and nursing station for better observation; a new decontamination and an isolation room for patients with special privacy and safety needs. As part of this improvement, BRMC signed an agreement this fall with Exigence Group to oversee the management of its Emergency Department.
(Photo Courtesy of BRMC)
Causer Announces VFD Grants
Volunteer emergency response organizations in Cameron, McKean and Potter counties have been awarded more than $330,000 in grants from the state, Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) announced today.
“In these challenging economic times, it is important to ensure our fire and ambulance companies have the resources they need to continue protecting the public safety,” Causer said. “I applaud the dedicated volunteers who give so much of their time in service to our communities.”
The grants were awarded to 32 fire and ambulance companies in the 67th Legislative District that Causer represents. The funding comes from an ongoing grant program administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Office of the State Fire Commissioner.
This year’s program provided $25 million in grants statewide. Projects eligible for funding include: construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training, or reduction of existing debt.
Following is a list of local fire and ambulance companies and the amount of their grant awards:
Cameron County
Cameron County Ambulance Service Inc., Emporium – $4,916.86
Emporium Fire Department Inc., Emporium – $9,500.
Mountaineer Search and Rescue, Emporium -- $9,500.
Sinnamahoning Volunteer Fire Department, Sinnamahoning – $19,000.
McKean County
Bradford Township Volunteer Fire Department, Bradford – $11,181.22.
Clermont Volunteer Fire Department, Mt. Jewett – $7,497.
Corydon Township Volunteer Fire Department, Bradford – $9,873.43.
Derrick City Volunteer Fire Department, Derrick City – $9,500.
Eldred Borough Volunteer Fire Department Inc., Eldred – $9,500.
Eldred Township Volunteer Fire Department, Eldred – $9,686.46.
Hilltop Volunteer Fire Department Inc., Cyclone – $9,500.
Lewis Run Volunteer Fire Department, Lewis Run – $9,873.43.
Mt. Jewett Fire Department, Mt. Jewett – $9,686.46.
Otto Township Volunteer Fire Company, Duke Center – $4,916.86 for EMS operations; $9,500 for fire company operations.
Port Allegany Fire Department-Star Hose Company No. 1, Port Allegany – $11,367.68.
Port Area Ambulance Service Inc., Port Allegany – $4,818.53.
Rew Volunteer Fire Department, Rew – $9,686.46.
Smethport Fire Department Inc. – $7,580.
Potter County
Austin Volunteer Fire Department, Austin – $4,916.86 for EMS operations; $9,500 for fire company operations.
Coudersport Volunteer Ambulance Association, Coudersport – $4,916.86.
Coudersport Volunteer Fire Department, Coudersport – $9,686.46.
Gale Hose Company No. 1 Inc., Galeton – $4,916.86.
Genesee Volunteer Fire Department, Genesee – $4,916.86 for EMS operations; $9,500 for fire company operations.
Goodyear Hose Company No. 1 Inc., Galeton -- $9,500.
Harrison Township Volunteer Fire Company, Harrison Valley – $9,500.
Kettle Creek Ambulance Association, Cross Fork – $4,916.86.
Kettle Creek Hose Company No. 1, Cross Fork – $9,500.
Roulette Chemical Engine Company No. 1, Roulette – $3,832.69 for EMS operations; $9,500 for fire company operations.
Shinglehouse Ambulance Association, Shinglehouse – $4,916.86.
Shinglehouse Volunteer Fire Department, Shinglehouse – $9,873.43.
Tri-Town Fire Company, Ulysses – $9,686.46.
Tri-Town Volunteer Ambulance Association, Ulysses – $4,916.86.
“In these challenging economic times, it is important to ensure our fire and ambulance companies have the resources they need to continue protecting the public safety,” Causer said. “I applaud the dedicated volunteers who give so much of their time in service to our communities.”
The grants were awarded to 32 fire and ambulance companies in the 67th Legislative District that Causer represents. The funding comes from an ongoing grant program administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Office of the State Fire Commissioner.
This year’s program provided $25 million in grants statewide. Projects eligible for funding include: construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training, or reduction of existing debt.
Following is a list of local fire and ambulance companies and the amount of their grant awards:
Cameron County
Cameron County Ambulance Service Inc., Emporium – $4,916.86
Emporium Fire Department Inc., Emporium – $9,500.
Mountaineer Search and Rescue, Emporium -- $9,500.
Sinnamahoning Volunteer Fire Department, Sinnamahoning – $19,000.
McKean County
Bradford Township Volunteer Fire Department, Bradford – $11,181.22.
Clermont Volunteer Fire Department, Mt. Jewett – $7,497.
Corydon Township Volunteer Fire Department, Bradford – $9,873.43.
Derrick City Volunteer Fire Department, Derrick City – $9,500.
Eldred Borough Volunteer Fire Department Inc., Eldred – $9,500.
Eldred Township Volunteer Fire Department, Eldred – $9,686.46.
Hilltop Volunteer Fire Department Inc., Cyclone – $9,500.
Lewis Run Volunteer Fire Department, Lewis Run – $9,873.43.
Mt. Jewett Fire Department, Mt. Jewett – $9,686.46.
Otto Township Volunteer Fire Company, Duke Center – $4,916.86 for EMS operations; $9,500 for fire company operations.
Port Allegany Fire Department-Star Hose Company No. 1, Port Allegany – $11,367.68.
Port Area Ambulance Service Inc., Port Allegany – $4,818.53.
Rew Volunteer Fire Department, Rew – $9,686.46.
Smethport Fire Department Inc. – $7,580.
Potter County
Austin Volunteer Fire Department, Austin – $4,916.86 for EMS operations; $9,500 for fire company operations.
Coudersport Volunteer Ambulance Association, Coudersport – $4,916.86.
Coudersport Volunteer Fire Department, Coudersport – $9,686.46.
Gale Hose Company No. 1 Inc., Galeton – $4,916.86.
Genesee Volunteer Fire Department, Genesee – $4,916.86 for EMS operations; $9,500 for fire company operations.
Goodyear Hose Company No. 1 Inc., Galeton -- $9,500.
Harrison Township Volunteer Fire Company, Harrison Valley – $9,500.
Kettle Creek Ambulance Association, Cross Fork – $4,916.86.
Kettle Creek Hose Company No. 1, Cross Fork – $9,500.
Roulette Chemical Engine Company No. 1, Roulette – $3,832.69 for EMS operations; $9,500 for fire company operations.
Shinglehouse Ambulance Association, Shinglehouse – $4,916.86.
Shinglehouse Volunteer Fire Department, Shinglehouse – $9,873.43.
Tri-Town Fire Company, Ulysses – $9,686.46.
Tri-Town Volunteer Ambulance Association, Ulysses – $4,916.86.
Causer, Rapp Named to Task Forces
State representatives Marty Causer and Kathy Rapp have been named to task forces that will develop policy solutions to get Pennsylvania out of its current fiscal crisis.
Causer has been named to the Infrastructure Task Force and Rapp is on the Education and Job Training Task Force.
Other groups will tackle the budget and economic policy; health care; energy and government reform.
Republican Policy Committee Chairman Stan Saylor has asked the task forces to begin work immediately so proposals will be ready for upcoming budget discussions.
Causer has been named to the Infrastructure Task Force and Rapp is on the Education and Job Training Task Force.
Other groups will tackle the budget and economic policy; health care; energy and government reform.
Republican Policy Committee Chairman Stan Saylor has asked the task forces to begin work immediately so proposals will be ready for upcoming budget discussions.
Prof's Article Appears in Journal
An article by University of Pittsburgh at Bradford assistant professor of education Dr. Wayne Brinda appears in the winter issue of the scholarly Journal of Aesthetic Education.
“Building Literacy Bridges for Adolescents Using Holocaust Literature and Theatre” is about using Holocaust literature to engage adolescent readers and draws on Brinda’s background in both Holocaust studies and the theater.
“As literature becomes complex, adolescents tend to struggle with comprehension and may forgo the idea of discovering enjoyment,” said Brinda, assistant professor of education. “Incorporating nonfiction stories from the Holocaust with innovative theatre experiences can engage these students in literature with complex themes, characters and plots.”
As an educator, researcher, and stage director, Brinda teaches and conducts research on adolescent literacy, theater and Holocaust education. As the co-founder and artistic director of Prime Stage Theatre in Pittsburgh, he produces adaptations of literature and educational programs that “bring literature to life.”
Before coming to Pitt-Bradford, Brinda was an assistant professor in the Duquesne University School of Education, where he earned his doctorate of education in educational leadership.
Brinda also taught English and theater at The Oakland School, Sewickley Academy Senior School and was director of Playhouse Jr. A reviewer of the National Middle School Journal, Brinda also conducts research on using young adult literature and the theater to teach the Holocaust as a Museum Teaching Fellow at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C.
His articles and presentations have been published by and presented at Jagiellonian University in Poland, Seton Hill University, Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literature, The ALAN Review, the National Council of Teachers of English, The National Middle School Association, the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, and the International Reading Association.
He is the author of numerous journal articles and has conducted research into teaching classical works of literature to adolescent readers.
“Building Literacy Bridges for Adolescents Using Holocaust Literature and Theatre” is about using Holocaust literature to engage adolescent readers and draws on Brinda’s background in both Holocaust studies and the theater.
“As literature becomes complex, adolescents tend to struggle with comprehension and may forgo the idea of discovering enjoyment,” said Brinda, assistant professor of education. “Incorporating nonfiction stories from the Holocaust with innovative theatre experiences can engage these students in literature with complex themes, characters and plots.”
As an educator, researcher, and stage director, Brinda teaches and conducts research on adolescent literacy, theater and Holocaust education. As the co-founder and artistic director of Prime Stage Theatre in Pittsburgh, he produces adaptations of literature and educational programs that “bring literature to life.”
Before coming to Pitt-Bradford, Brinda was an assistant professor in the Duquesne University School of Education, where he earned his doctorate of education in educational leadership.
Brinda also taught English and theater at The Oakland School, Sewickley Academy Senior School and was director of Playhouse Jr. A reviewer of the National Middle School Journal, Brinda also conducts research on using young adult literature and the theater to teach the Holocaust as a Museum Teaching Fellow at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C.
His articles and presentations have been published by and presented at Jagiellonian University in Poland, Seton Hill University, Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literature, The ALAN Review, the National Council of Teachers of English, The National Middle School Association, the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, and the International Reading Association.
He is the author of numerous journal articles and has conducted research into teaching classical works of literature to adolescent readers.
KOA Lays Off 28 People
More bad economic news for Bradford.
KOA Speer Electronics has laid off 28 people.
Chief Financial Officer Lance Eastman tells WESB and The HERO that the layoffs are due to the current economic conditions, especially within the auto industry on which KOA heavily relies.
Eastman says they hope to call everyone back when economic conditions improve but, for now, they told employees "they know as much as we do."
KOA offered a voluntary layoff in December, expecting that business would pick up in January. Eastman says all of those people were called back before today's layoff.
KOA Speer Electronics has laid off 28 people.
Chief Financial Officer Lance Eastman tells WESB and The HERO that the layoffs are due to the current economic conditions, especially within the auto industry on which KOA heavily relies.
Eastman says they hope to call everyone back when economic conditions improve but, for now, they told employees "they know as much as we do."
KOA offered a voluntary layoff in December, expecting that business would pick up in January. Eastman says all of those people were called back before today's layoff.
Villa, Prep to Become One Entity
Bishop Donald Trautman of the Erie Dioceses has announced that Villa Maria Academy and Cathedral Prep will become one educational entity while remaining as two separate campuses.
Villa Maria will begin returning to its roots as a female-only campus starting in September.
Male students, who currently make up about 20 percent of Villa's enrollment, will be allowed to graduate, but no new male students will be accepted as of the 2009-10 school year.
Cathedral Prep will continue as an all-male school. The schools will be run by a joint board, but will maintain their existing names.
Villa Maria will begin returning to its roots as a female-only campus starting in September.
Male students, who currently make up about 20 percent of Villa's enrollment, will be allowed to graduate, but no new male students will be accepted as of the 2009-10 school year.
Cathedral Prep will continue as an all-male school. The schools will be run by a joint board, but will maintain their existing names.
Paterson: State of State is 'Perilous'
In his first State of the State address, Governor David A. Paterson outlined his plan for a stronger New York including the need to confront the current fiscal crisis head on. He laid out a progressive policy agenda to help working families during these difficult times including calling for one of the most ambitious clean energy plans in the nation, setting a “45 by 15” goal that 45 percent of New York State’s electricity needs will be met through improved energy efficiency and greater use of clean renewable energy by 2015.For the full text of Paterson's address, go to the governor's Web site.
Heroin, Other Drugs Seized in City
Bradford City Police have arrested three people after finding a large amount of prescription medication, heroin and marijuana at a Pike Street home.
Police executed a search warrant early this morning and found the drugs, paraphernalia and a large amount of tobacco cigarettes that had been stolen from a warehouse in Salamanca.
Toni Taylor has been charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver and possession of a controlled substance
Phillip Haight has been charged with possession of marijuana. Vincent Santiago has been charged with possession of a controlled substance.
All three have also been charged with possession of paraphernalia and receiving stolen property.
The Bradford City Street Crimes Unit, Bradford City Emergency Response Team, Bradford Township Police and University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Police executed the search warrant.
The Salamanca Police Department is assisting in the investigation into the stolen cigarettes.
Police executed a search warrant early this morning and found the drugs, paraphernalia and a large amount of tobacco cigarettes that had been stolen from a warehouse in Salamanca.
Toni Taylor has been charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver and possession of a controlled substance
Phillip Haight has been charged with possession of marijuana. Vincent Santiago has been charged with possession of a controlled substance.
All three have also been charged with possession of paraphernalia and receiving stolen property.
The Bradford City Street Crimes Unit, Bradford City Emergency Response Team, Bradford Township Police and University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Police executed the search warrant.
The Salamanca Police Department is assisting in the investigation into the stolen cigarettes.
Rep. Glenn Thompson Sworn In
Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Howard, Tuesday was sworn in as a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing Pennsylvania’s sprawling Fifth District. He will replace John Peterson who did not seek reelection after holding the seat for 12 years. Thompson issued the following statement shortly after being sworn in: “To stand on the House Floor today and take an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America is awe inspiring and in some sense a surreal moment. However, the job before me, which is to represent the citizens and interests of the Fifth District and to work with my colleagues across the aisle to get the economy back on stable ground, is a task that I am more than ready to embark upon and eager to get under way.
“As I said on the campaign trail and above all else, my motto of People above Politics will continue to guide my thinking and shape my positions in the months and years ahead. The people of the Fifth District and the Country are tired of the partisan debate that has dominated Washington for all too long and I look forward to working across the aisle on a host of issues including rural healthcare reform, a comprehensive energy plan, and providing an environment where small businesses can create new, good paying, family sustaining jobs.
“The challenges are great but the opportunity to change the way Washington operates and give the government back to the people is a challenge I willfully accept and plan on tackling in the days and years ahead.”
Thompson, who hails from the small town of Howard, Pennsylvania – off Interstate 80 in Centre County, joins 55 newly elected Members in the 111th Congress Freshman class. The House of Representatives consists of 435 voting members and 6 non-voting Members from the District of Columbia and U.S. Territories. Members of the House are elected to a two year term and must be sworn in at the beginning of each term.
Listen to Thompson's comments HERE.
(Photo and audio courtesy of Thompson's office)
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Rep. Causer Starts 4th Term
Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) joined 202 fellow House lawmakers in taking the oath of office during ceremonies at the state Capitol today. It marks the start of his fourth term representing the people of Cameron, Potter and McKean counties.
"Swearing-in day is almost like another New Year's Day," Causer said. "It's a new beginning, a time to assess past accomplishments and set goals for the new session."
Causer acknowledged that his biggest concern heading into the new year is the state's financial condition. During the first half of the current fiscal year, state revenues have come in $658 million below the administration's estimates. At his mid-year budget briefing last month, the governor indicated the state could face a shortfall of at least $1.6 billion by the time the fiscal year ends in June.
"We are going to have some very tough decisions to make as we craft a budget for next year," Causer said. "But given the financial challenges people across our state and the nation are facing, I believe we have to make those tough choices to cut spending as much as we possibly can. We need to make the state more attractive to employers to get them to come to Pennsylvania, invest in our state and provide good jobs to our citizens. We need to get back to the core functions of government."
While Causer expects the economy to take center stage for much of the next several months, other key issues on the House agenda this year include improving access to affordable health care, developing alternative energy strategies and finding the funds necessary to invest in roads, bridges and water and sewer infrastructure.
In addition to these legislative issues, Causer said he remains committed to providing the best possible constituent service to residents of the 67th Legislative District.
"Harrisburg is a long way from Cameron, Potter and McKean counties, but my office is available to serve as your link to state government," Causer said.
The lawmaker operates offices at 78 Main St., First Floor, in Bradford (telephone 814-362-4400) and at 2 Allegany Ave. in Coudersport (telephone 814-274-9769). He also maintains a Web site at RepCauser.com.
"Swearing-in day is almost like another New Year's Day," Causer said. "It's a new beginning, a time to assess past accomplishments and set goals for the new session."
Causer acknowledged that his biggest concern heading into the new year is the state's financial condition. During the first half of the current fiscal year, state revenues have come in $658 million below the administration's estimates. At his mid-year budget briefing last month, the governor indicated the state could face a shortfall of at least $1.6 billion by the time the fiscal year ends in June.
"We are going to have some very tough decisions to make as we craft a budget for next year," Causer said. "But given the financial challenges people across our state and the nation are facing, I believe we have to make those tough choices to cut spending as much as we possibly can. We need to make the state more attractive to employers to get them to come to Pennsylvania, invest in our state and provide good jobs to our citizens. We need to get back to the core functions of government."
While Causer expects the economy to take center stage for much of the next several months, other key issues on the House agenda this year include improving access to affordable health care, developing alternative energy strategies and finding the funds necessary to invest in roads, bridges and water and sewer infrastructure.
In addition to these legislative issues, Causer said he remains committed to providing the best possible constituent service to residents of the 67th Legislative District.
"Harrisburg is a long way from Cameron, Potter and McKean counties, but my office is available to serve as your link to state government," Causer said.
The lawmaker operates offices at 78 Main St., First Floor, in Bradford (telephone 814-362-4400) and at 2 Allegany Ave. in Coudersport (telephone 814-274-9769). He also maintains a Web site at RepCauser.com.
Letter to the Editor
Fuino: Enough About Me
Editor's Note: This letter concerns the conflicting opinions of Bradford Mayor Tom Riel and McKean County District Attorney John Pavlock.
I am appalled that I seem to be a "red herring" between these to "warring" public officials.
While Mr. Riel has a legitimate complaint with 1 or 2 local law officers for instigating a false complaint against him in an apparent attempt to keep Mr. Riel from office, a complaint in which I was approached to be a part of, Mr. Pavlock doesn't seem to have a legitimate complaint concerning me. Then why am I being dragged through the mud?
I don't fit any description given by any witness concerning the Crosby Mini Mart robbery of Lewis Run. I do not have gray hair. I do not and have not had a beard. I do not have an acne-scarred face. I have never confessed to anyone, especially a Pennsylvania State Trooper, of my guilt to any crime.
I find it ridiculous that I be the center of attention here. I have a past record. I never said to anyone that I didn't. I plead no contest to an F3 Felony and a misdemeanor and received a 3-6 year sentence. Why?
According to state law, if I got on the witness stand to testify on my own behalf, then my past record could be read to the jury. What jury would not be influenced by this information? What jury would or could give me the benefit of the doubt? But this is our law, and rather than face 25-50 years in prison, I agreed to a 3-6 year sentence worked out by the public defender and Ray Learn of the DA's office.
Ask yourself this: If the DA had a confession that I admitted to this crime, why not just take me to trial and put me away for life? Why give me 3 years?
But enough about me. That's the reason for this letter: Enough about me!
I hate the fact that I must write this letter in defense of myself. I hate the fact that my family (is being) embarrassed by these continuing articles. I have served my time. I am serving time now. I am not bitter or angry. You've heard it said "Sometimes life serves us lemons …" Well, this is my lemon and I'm gonna be a man and accept my fate.
And to each and every one of you who read this, know this: I deeply respect Mayor Riel and District Attorney Pavlock, but don't judge another human being until you've walked in their shoes.
Dennis Fuino
McKean County Jail
I am appalled that I seem to be a "red herring" between these to "warring" public officials.
While Mr. Riel has a legitimate complaint with 1 or 2 local law officers for instigating a false complaint against him in an apparent attempt to keep Mr. Riel from office, a complaint in which I was approached to be a part of, Mr. Pavlock doesn't seem to have a legitimate complaint concerning me. Then why am I being dragged through the mud?
I don't fit any description given by any witness concerning the Crosby Mini Mart robbery of Lewis Run. I do not have gray hair. I do not and have not had a beard. I do not have an acne-scarred face. I have never confessed to anyone, especially a Pennsylvania State Trooper, of my guilt to any crime.
I find it ridiculous that I be the center of attention here. I have a past record. I never said to anyone that I didn't. I plead no contest to an F3 Felony and a misdemeanor and received a 3-6 year sentence. Why?
According to state law, if I got on the witness stand to testify on my own behalf, then my past record could be read to the jury. What jury would not be influenced by this information? What jury would or could give me the benefit of the doubt? But this is our law, and rather than face 25-50 years in prison, I agreed to a 3-6 year sentence worked out by the public defender and Ray Learn of the DA's office.
Ask yourself this: If the DA had a confession that I admitted to this crime, why not just take me to trial and put me away for life? Why give me 3 years?
But enough about me. That's the reason for this letter: Enough about me!
I hate the fact that I must write this letter in defense of myself. I hate the fact that my family (is being) embarrassed by these continuing articles. I have served my time. I am serving time now. I am not bitter or angry. You've heard it said "Sometimes life serves us lemons …" Well, this is my lemon and I'm gonna be a man and accept my fate.
And to each and every one of you who read this, know this: I deeply respect Mayor Riel and District Attorney Pavlock, but don't judge another human being until you've walked in their shoes.
Dennis Fuino
McKean County Jail
Matt Gabler Sworn In as State Rep.
State Rep. Matt Gabler (R-Clearfield/Elk) was sworn into office today during ceremonies held on the House floor of the State Capitol. He is one of 12 Republican freshmen representatives that make up the 193rd General Assembly.
"Officially becoming a member of Pennsylvania's state Legislature was a humbling experience," said Gabler. "What transpired today featured an oath I will always uphold on a day I will always remember."
Gabler took the oath of office before a crowd that included his family, district office staff and friends from his home district.
"I am honored to be asked to serve the fine citizens of the 75th Legislative District," Gabler added. "Their vote represents an investment in me, and I promise to show them how wise a decision that is by doing my best to represent their interests in Harrisburg."
Gabler has already established district offices in DuBois and St Marys. You can find out how to contact these offices, and well as sign up to get the latest legislative information, by logging on to Gabler's Web site, RepGabler.com.
(Photo courtesy of House Republican Public Relations)
Alleged Pelt Thieves Arrested
Police have arrested two people they believe stole nearly $6,000 worth of animal pelts from an Oswayo tanning shed over the weekend.
On Sunday, police searched the Coudersport home of Anthony Duell and found all of the stolen pelts. He was charged with burglary and receiving stolen property.
Monday, they arrested Eric Pfenninger of Roulette on similar charges.
They're both in Potter County Jail on $5,000 bail each.
On Sunday, police searched the Coudersport home of Anthony Duell and found all of the stolen pelts. He was charged with burglary and receiving stolen property.
Monday, they arrested Eric Pfenninger of Roulette on similar charges.
They're both in Potter County Jail on $5,000 bail each.
UPB Gets Donations for Chapel
The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has reached $2 million of its $2.5 million goal to build a chapel on campus with the help of three major gifts.
The university has received a $250,000 gift from the estate of Agnes L. Thomas, a $50,000 gift from Richard S. and Pamela A. Johnson and a gift from Martha and Jack Campbell Jr.
“We’re in the final phase of fundraising for the critically important chapel construction project,” said Dr. Livingston Alexander, president of Pitt-Bradford. “The generous gifts from these strong and loyal supporters came at a very good time.
“We’re profoundly grateful to Rich and Pam Johnson and Jack and Martha Campbell for their generous expressions of support. And we’re pleased that a gift of that magnitude from the Thomas estate was designated for the chapel construction project.”
In November, Pitt-Bradford announced a $1million gift from Mrs. Thomas’s estate to establish the Agnes L. and Lewis Lyle Thomas Scholarship Challenge. Both the scholarship challenge and the chapel gifts were made through her will.
In appreciation of her gifts, Pitt-Bradford will name the entrance hall to the chapel in honor of the Thomases.
Agnes Thomas was born and grew up in Pitcairn, graduating from Pitcairn High School. She married Lewis Lyle Thomas in 1937.
Mrs. Thomas graduated with honors from the Pittsburgh Academy Business School and worked as an executive secretary at Dresser Manufacturing and later for Dr. Gordon Huff and Dr. Edward Roche.
She was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, the Pennhills Club and the Bradford Club and loved playing bridge.
“Mrs. Thomas was very generous with local churches and organizations,” said Alan Gordon, executor of her estate and her accountant for more than 20 years.
Lewis Lyle Thomas was an engineer for the former Bradford Motor Works who died unexpectedly in 1969.
Like Mrs. Thomas, the Campbells have been generous contributors to the university. The couple made its gift to the chapel to help complete the campus. “I don’t think it can really be a campus without a chapel,” Jack Campbell said. “The chapel is unique in that the university can’t use public funds to build it, so it has to be raised all privately. There’s still a lot of need.” The Campbells are Bradford natives and Pitt-Bradford alumni. In 2005, the Campbells lent a collection of 11 works by artist Norman Rockwell to Pitt-Bradford for an exhibition in Blaisdell Hall.
Jack Campbell enrolled at Pitt-Bradford on the GI Bill in 1967 and attended for two years, moving on to earn his four-year degree from the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh in 1971. After graduating, he went to work for Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel and went on to a career in the steel industry.
After graduating from Bradford Central Christian High School, Martha Campbell worked as a nurse at St. Francis Hospital, then attended Pitt-Bradford from 1970 to 1972 and transferred to Pitt-Oakland.
The couple has also established a scholarship at Pitt-Bradford to benefit nontraditional students, and Mr. Campbell is a member of the Pitt-Bradford Advisory Board. In October, Pitt-Bradford named a wing of Swarts Hall in honor of the Campbells as part of the rededication of that building.
Like Mr. Campbell, Richard Johnson is a member of the Pitt-Bradford Advisory Board.
Richard Johnson retired from the oil industry prior to moving to Texas, Colorado and Arizona. Pamela Johnson is a Bradford native. The Johnsons have returned to Bradford to be closer to members of their family.The couple began supporting Pitt-Bradford by donating their home in Bradford to the university before they moved west.
Upon returning, they set up a life annuity trust and established an endowed arts fund at Pitt-Bradford to support the fine and performing arts.
In December, Pitt-Bradford dedicated a wing of Blaisdell Hall, the university’s fine arts center, in honor of the couple.
Richard Johnson is an elected member of the Advisory Board and chairman of the Arts Council of the Advisory Board. He also serves on the Business Affairs Council.
He said he made the donation to the chapel in order to “bring the campus together.”
In October, the university announced a $500,000 gift from Bradford resident Harriett B. Wick in memory of her grandson, Michael Quinn Wick, who died in a 2005 automobile accident.
Fundraising for the chapel’s construction got off to a quick start in May, when two anonymous donors made gifts totaling $1 million in honor of Harriett Wick.
Albert Filoni, president of MacLachlan, Cornelius and Filoni Architects Inc. of Pittsburgh, designed the chapel, which university officials hope to break ground on this summer. The chapel has been designed for minimum impact on the environment, and will use low-energy equipment and lighting, solar shades and recyclable materials.
Since Pitt-Bradford is a state-related university, money from the commonwealth usually pays for a large part of the construction costs for a new building. Because of the unique use of the chapel, however, private funding is the only source of money for its construction.
For more information or to make a donation, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at (814)362-5091 or e-mail Karen Niemic Buchheit, executive director of institutional advancement and managing director of the Bradford Educational Foundation, at kpb@pitt.edu.
(Photos courtesy of Pitt-Bradford)
State GOP Legal Bills Top $1 Million
HARRISBURG -- Senate Republicans' legal bills have hit more than $1 million in the grand jury investigation of legislative corruption, senators were told in a New Year's Eve memo.
For the full story, go to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
For the full story, go to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Former Exec: Fumo Sought Millions
The former president of Verizon Pennsylvania testified Monday that a powerful state lawmaker sought $50 million worth of demands during negotiations with the state over phone-industry deregulation.
For the full story, go to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
For the full story, go to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Family Suing Over Fatal Fire
A family that lost two children in a house fire last September is suing the village of Fredonia for negligence.
The McKinnon family says they yelled down at police officers from the second floor of their burning home saying that their children were trapped, and they needed help.
The suit claims that the officers told the parents to wait for the fire department, which was on its way. The suit goes on to claim that as a result of the police officers' advice to wait, 10-year-old Dawson McKinnon and his 3-year-old brother Clayton died in the fire.
The McKinnon family says they yelled down at police officers from the second floor of their burning home saying that their children were trapped, and they needed help.
The suit claims that the officers told the parents to wait for the fire department, which was on its way. The suit goes on to claim that as a result of the police officers' advice to wait, 10-year-old Dawson McKinnon and his 3-year-old brother Clayton died in the fire.
Teen Sentenced for Murder
The second of two boys convicted of brutally murdering a third teen in December of 2007 has been sentenced to 9 years to life in prison.
16 year-old Lyman Whitmore of Sinclairville received the sentence in Chautauqua County Court on Monday. Late last year he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of 18 year-old Dusty Elderkin.
Whitmore will be held in a state juvenile detention center until he's 18. A now-15 year-old accomplice was sentenced to a state juvenile center late last year.
16 year-old Lyman Whitmore of Sinclairville received the sentence in Chautauqua County Court on Monday. Late last year he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of 18 year-old Dusty Elderkin.
Whitmore will be held in a state juvenile detention center until he's 18. A now-15 year-old accomplice was sentenced to a state juvenile center late last year.
Glee Club Members Hurt in Crash
Eight people were hurt when a van carrying members of the Miami University of Ohio glee club rolled over near Erie.
A Hamot Medical Center spokeswoman says four people were treated and released for injuries such as cuts and bruises and four others are under observation. She couldn't provide their conditions.
A volunteer firefighter says all the injuries are believed to be minor.
Authorities say the van was one of five taking people to a performance in Buffalo, N.Y., when it crashed on Interstate 90 at about 10:45 this morning
A Hamot Medical Center spokeswoman says four people were treated and released for injuries such as cuts and bruises and four others are under observation. She couldn't provide their conditions.
A volunteer firefighter says all the injuries are believed to be minor.
Authorities say the van was one of five taking people to a performance in Buffalo, N.Y., when it crashed on Interstate 90 at about 10:45 this morning
Senator Scarnati Sworn In
Senator Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) was re-elected to serve his second term as President Pro Tempore of the Pennsylvania Senate during swearing-in ceremonies today at the State Capitol in Harrisburg. Scarnati is also serving as Lieutenant Governor, following the death of Lieutenant Governor Catherine Baker Knoll last November. Scarnati was sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Thomas Saylor after he was unanimously re-elected by his colleagues to the top Senate post. He was first elected to the position in January 2007.
During remarks on the Senate floor, Scarnati urged all the members of the Senate to work together on tough issues facing the state, particularly the looming economic crisis.
“Today, more than ever, Pennsylvanians want results, not stalemate,” Scarnati said. “They want family-sustaining jobs, not more unemployment benefits, and they want a vision for the future that is full of hope, and that what we do today will make tomorrow brighter.”
Since his election to the position of President Pro Tempore, Scarnati has been a leader in reforming the way business is conducted in the Senate and remains committed to making the institution more open and accessible to the citizens of the Commonwealth.
Senator Scarnati is also taking on many important issues such as reducing job-crushing taxes, eliminating benefits to illegal aliens, and cutting the cost of government in Pennsylvania.
Scarnati is a native of Brockway in Jefferson County and a lifelong resident of the 25th District.
(Pictured, Senator Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) is joined by Supreme Court Justice Thomas Saylor and his children Kelly and Michael following swearing-in ceremonies at the State Capitol. Photo courtesy of Senate Republican Communications.)
Body Found in Burned Erie House
Investigators have found a body in the debris of a home that burned on West 25th Street this morning.
They believe it's 42-year-old Robert Daniels, but haven't confirmed that yet.
Daniels had shot at police from the home shortly before the fire started. The shooting set off a manhunt for Daniels, prompting authorities to close roads and ask residents to stay in their homes.
The SWAT team and a State Police helicopter were brought in to help search for Daniels.
Police say the incident started when a woman came to the police station at 3:50 a.m. to report that Daniels had beaten her up.
They believe it's 42-year-old Robert Daniels, but haven't confirmed that yet.
Daniels had shot at police from the home shortly before the fire started. The shooting set off a manhunt for Daniels, prompting authorities to close roads and ask residents to stay in their homes.
The SWAT team and a State Police helicopter were brought in to help search for Daniels.
Police say the incident started when a woman came to the police station at 3:50 a.m. to report that Daniels had beaten her up.
Man Hurt in Cuba Lake Road Crash
A Black Creek man is hospitalized after an accident this morning on Cuba Lake Road.
Sheriff's Deputies say an SUV driven by 24-year-old Clifford Oakes traveled off the road and into a ditch, where it hit a sluice pipe and flew into the air before landing on its roof in a field.
Oakes had to be extricated by Cuba and Hinsdale firefighters.
He was taken by Mercy Flight to ECMC.
Sheriff's Deputies say an SUV driven by 24-year-old Clifford Oakes traveled off the road and into a ditch, where it hit a sluice pipe and flew into the air before landing on its roof in a field.
Oakes had to be extricated by Cuba and Hinsdale firefighters.
He was taken by Mercy Flight to ECMC.
Rubin Gave to Rendell Campaigns
A campaign donor who is the target of the federal investigation that forced New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson to withdraw from consideration for U.S. Commerce secretary also donated generously to Governor Ed Rendell's campaigns.
David Rubin gave $40,000 to Rendell's campaign committees between 2001 and 2005. His Beverly Hills, Calif.-based company also continues to hold a $45,000-a-year contract as an adviser to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Authority.
A federal grand jury is looking into state contracts in New Mexico to see whether they are related to $100,000 Rubin and his company gave to Richardson in 2003 and 2004.
Rendell spokesman Chuck Ardo says questions about the contributions to the governor are "much ado about nothing."
David Rubin gave $40,000 to Rendell's campaign committees between 2001 and 2005. His Beverly Hills, Calif.-based company also continues to hold a $45,000-a-year contract as an adviser to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Authority.
A federal grand jury is looking into state contracts in New Mexico to see whether they are related to $100,000 Rubin and his company gave to Richardson in 2003 and 2004.
Rendell spokesman Chuck Ardo says questions about the contributions to the governor are "much ado about nothing."
US Attorney Going to Private Sector
U.S. Attorney Terrance P. Flynn is resigning to become a partner with a major law firm.
Flynn will leave his federal job in Buffalo on January 16 to become a partner in the law firm of Harris Beach, which represents Fortune 500 companies and has offices in nine cities in New York state and one in New Jersey.
Flynn, who was appointed as the region's top federal prosecutor by President George W. Bush in 2006, says he fully expected to be replaced sometime after president-elect Barack Obama takes office on January 20.
The U.S. Attorney in Buffalo oversees thousands of criminal and civil cases in 17 counties of Western New York.
Flynn will leave his federal job in Buffalo on January 16 to become a partner in the law firm of Harris Beach, which represents Fortune 500 companies and has offices in nine cities in New York state and one in New Jersey.
Flynn, who was appointed as the region's top federal prosecutor by President George W. Bush in 2006, says he fully expected to be replaced sometime after president-elect Barack Obama takes office on January 20.
The U.S. Attorney in Buffalo oversees thousands of criminal and civil cases in 17 counties of Western New York.
Scarnati Re-Elected Unanimously
Senator Joe Scarnati is returning as the presiding officer of the state Senate following his unanimous election as president pro tempore.
Scarnati was re-elected today, moments after Rep. Keith McCall was elected speaker of the House.
Thirty-four freshmen lawmakers joined returning members to take the oath of office amid family members and well-wishers who thronged to the state Capitol for the ceremony.
Audio of Scarnati taking the oath of office.
Scarnati's Address to the Senate.
Thanks to Senate Republican Communications
Scarnati was re-elected today, moments after Rep. Keith McCall was elected speaker of the House.
Thirty-four freshmen lawmakers joined returning members to take the oath of office amid family members and well-wishers who thronged to the state Capitol for the ceremony.
Audio of Scarnati taking the oath of office.
Scarnati's Address to the Senate.
Thanks to Senate Republican Communications
Riel Stands by His Statements
Mayor Tom Riel says he's sticking by claims he made in a speech last week, despite statements made by District Attorney John Pavlock.
Riel's statement:
John Pavlock is a seasoned politician who regularly tries to sell his story to a jury. It's sad and unfortunate that he somehow now feels he is on trial.
In his statement, he doesn't deny that Mr. (Dennis) Fuino was originally in jail on bogus charges that were later dropped. In fact, I have a recording from the alleged victim admitting the charges were bogus.
He doesn't deny that Fuino was shown a picture of me and let out of jail to – quote – help get me. He also once again gives a description from eyewitnesses that did not match Fuino, yet they supposedly picked him out of a lineup. Hair color and fingerprints didn't even match.
No matter what the spin on the facts, I still stand by my allegations and believe that they are true.
Audio of Riel's statement.
Riel's Dec. 30, 2008, Speech
COMMENT FROM DA JOHN PAVLOCK:
Tom: I left a message for you to call me last week but still haven't heard from you. Are you ever going to call me back and set down and talk to me about this? I will be glad to go to Bradford. I want to hear and see first hand what your concerns are and share the information that I have. I would never ask a jury to reach a conclusion without having the facts first. I know you have my numbers. John Pavlock
Riel's statement:
John Pavlock is a seasoned politician who regularly tries to sell his story to a jury. It's sad and unfortunate that he somehow now feels he is on trial.
In his statement, he doesn't deny that Mr. (Dennis) Fuino was originally in jail on bogus charges that were later dropped. In fact, I have a recording from the alleged victim admitting the charges were bogus.
He doesn't deny that Fuino was shown a picture of me and let out of jail to – quote – help get me. He also once again gives a description from eyewitnesses that did not match Fuino, yet they supposedly picked him out of a lineup. Hair color and fingerprints didn't even match.
No matter what the spin on the facts, I still stand by my allegations and believe that they are true.
Audio of Riel's statement.
Riel's Dec. 30, 2008, Speech
COMMENT FROM DA JOHN PAVLOCK:
Tom: I left a message for you to call me last week but still haven't heard from you. Are you ever going to call me back and set down and talk to me about this? I will be glad to go to Bradford. I want to hear and see first hand what your concerns are and share the information that I have. I would never ask a jury to reach a conclusion without having the facts first. I know you have my numbers. John Pavlock
Group Urges Temporary Rules
From Common Cause Pennsylvania:
Amid fanfare, flowers, family, and photos Pennsylvania’s newly elected General Assembly will begin its 193rd legislative session today. While the today’s activities are generally ceremonial, one set of very high impact votes will be taken – approving chamber rules. The chamber rules will determine how the legislature will do its business for the next two years. However, while a vote on rules likely will be scheduled for today, late yesterday rank-and-file lawmaker still had not seen this set of rules, generally scores of pages in length with arcane procedures, that will determine how they must conduct nearly all of their official acts.
“The way the legislature does its business can have dramatic effect on the quality of the laws and public policies it produces”, said Common Cause/PA Executive Director, Barry Kauffman. He stated that the chamber rules determine whether power will be concentrated in a handful of caucus leaders or whether it will be distributed among all legislators. “The rules determine whether rank-and-file lawmakers can get fair hearings on issues important to their constituents, whether the can play meaningful roles, or whether they will be buried in the rewards system for the loyal foot soldiers.”
In a letter delivered to every member of the Pennsylvania General Assembly yesterday, Common Cause urged lawmakers to pass only temporary chamber rules today, so that they can have time to examine the proposed operating procedures for the 2009-10 session, consider reforms that will modernize and democratize the process (such as those considered and recommended last session by the Speakers Commission on Legislative Reform), and then act with informed judgments to upgrade the quality of the legislature’s deliberative process. The citizens lobby also urged Speaker-designate Keith McCall to re-establish the Speaker’s Commission on Legislative Reform.
Amid fanfare, flowers, family, and photos Pennsylvania’s newly elected General Assembly will begin its 193rd legislative session today. While the today’s activities are generally ceremonial, one set of very high impact votes will be taken – approving chamber rules. The chamber rules will determine how the legislature will do its business for the next two years. However, while a vote on rules likely will be scheduled for today, late yesterday rank-and-file lawmaker still had not seen this set of rules, generally scores of pages in length with arcane procedures, that will determine how they must conduct nearly all of their official acts.
“The way the legislature does its business can have dramatic effect on the quality of the laws and public policies it produces”, said Common Cause/PA Executive Director, Barry Kauffman. He stated that the chamber rules determine whether power will be concentrated in a handful of caucus leaders or whether it will be distributed among all legislators. “The rules determine whether rank-and-file lawmakers can get fair hearings on issues important to their constituents, whether the can play meaningful roles, or whether they will be buried in the rewards system for the loyal foot soldiers.”
In a letter delivered to every member of the Pennsylvania General Assembly yesterday, Common Cause urged lawmakers to pass only temporary chamber rules today, so that they can have time to examine the proposed operating procedures for the 2009-10 session, consider reforms that will modernize and democratize the process (such as those considered and recommended last session by the Speakers Commission on Legislative Reform), and then act with informed judgments to upgrade the quality of the legislature’s deliberative process. The citizens lobby also urged Speaker-designate Keith McCall to re-establish the Speaker’s Commission on Legislative Reform.
New Year's Baby at CCMH
Charles Cole Memorial Hospital welcomed the first baby of the New Year on January 3. Hunter James Gross was born at 1:51 p.m. and weighed 7 pounds, 2.5 ounces. He was 19 inches long. Hunter’s parents are Christopher and Jessica Austin Gross of Shinglehouse. He has a sister, Dakota, 11, and Charlie, 3. Maternal grandparents are Chuck and Lori Austin of Eldred. Paternal grandparents are Jean and the late Herbert Gross of Shinglehouse. Maternal great-grandparents are Alton and Dawn Spencer of Port Allegany and Nancy and the late Leroy Austin of Eldred. Pictured are Chris Gross, Charlie Gross (seated), Jessica Gross, Hunter Gross, Dr. Celso Backes. In back are nurses Sara Keck and Laura Patterson.
(Photo Courtesy of Charles Cole Memorial Hospital)
SBU Prof Co-Pens Civil War Article
Chris Mackowski, an associate professor of journalism and mass communication at St. Bonaventure University, has published an article in a Civil War history journal. “From Foxcroft to Fredericksburg: Captain Sewell Gray of the Sixth Maine Infantry” appears in this year’s volume of Fredericksburg History & Biography, an annual journal published by the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust. This year’s volume — volume seven — was released in mid-December.
Mackowski co-authored the article with Kristopher D. White, a historian who works at Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, which encompasses four major Civil War battlefields in central Virginia. Mackowski works at the park one weekend a month as a battlefield guide and interpreter.
Their article focuses on an officer, Sewell Gray of Foxcroft, Maine, who served with the Sixth Maine Infantry. Mackowski and White based their article on Gray’s diary, which recently came to light.
“Sabbath and a lovelier day never overtook a soldier,” Gray wrote in his diary on May 3, 1863. Hours later, he was killed while his regiment stormed a heavily fortified Confederate position known as Marye’s Heights in Fredericksburg. However, Gray’s unit, the Sixth Maine, successfully captured the position, although their success was short-lived. The Federal advance was halted just a few hours later after the Battle at Salem Church. The action was one of several engagements related to the Battle of Chancellorsville.
“After Gray’s death, his diary had been recovered by someone in his regiment, and it was passed down through his family. His great-great-grandnephew has it today,” Mackowski says. “He was kind enough to provide a transcript, which Kris and I then used as the basis for the article. We did additional research to flesh out Gray’s story even further. He was an interesting guy to get to know.”
Mackowski’s father lives in the area in Maine where members of Gray’s regiment were recruited into service.
“I spent part of my life growing up and going to school in the same towns where some of Gray’s comrades came from,” Mackowski says. “It was important to me to do justice to Captain Gray’s story because of that connection.”
The article by Mackowski and White appears alongside articles by noted Civil War historians Eric Mink, Donald Pfanz, Noel Harrison and Russell P. Smith.
SBU Students Get Look at Politics
Earlier this fall when 14 St. Bonaventure students signed up for a special Washington, D.C., academic seminar about the new presidential administration, they didn’t even know who the 44th president of the United States was going to be. It didn’t matter; they knew it was going to be an opportunity of a lifetime.
For 10 days in January, the students will participate in a unique course that will examine the issues and implications of the Obama administration and study the role the media plays in the political process – all under the backdrop of the nation’s capital.
The seminar starts Jan. 10 and ends Jan. 20, Inauguration Day.
“This is one of the most historic elections in American history and in a time with so many troubles, Barack Obama has promised us so much, so I would like to be a part of this history,” said SBU junior Dan Volkosh of Middleport, N.Y.
The St. Bonaventure students and professor Dr. Danette Brickman, who will serve as a faculty leader and instructor for the course, will join college students from across the country for The Presidential Inauguration program sponsored by The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars.
The seminar program is taught as a course and will examine the issues and implications of the Obama administration. The students’ days will be split between small seminars in the morning and afternoon speakers and visits to sites including embassies, news agencies CNN and Fox, the Brookings Institute, Pew Research Center, Amnesty International and the Democratic and Republican national committees.
Tentative speakers include ABC News anchor Sam Donaldson, the Discovery Channel’s Ted Koppel and U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey.
Volkosh, who is president of the College Democrats, is looking forward to being “in an optimistic atmosphere for 10 days with millions of other Americans and to experience living history in our country’s capital.”
The Presidential Inauguration program will host more than 700 college students from institutions such as Ball State, Loyola Marymount, Miami Dade and the University of Florida.
“I think it’s going to be a great experience for our students because they’re going to be interacting with students from all over the country,” Brickman said.
As part of the course, the students will have the opportunity to visit the Newseum, the new Capitol Visitors Center, attend a U.S. Chamber of Commerce cocktail party/social, and enjoy a special performance by satirist Mark Russell at George Washington University.
Although they don’t have tickets to the inauguration of president-elect Obama, Brickman said the Bona’s contingent “will be trying to get as close as possible” to the inauguration festivities on Jan. 20.
With estimates ranging from 1 million to 5 million people descending on Washington, D.C., to mark the inauguration, Brickman said, “this is going to be the biggest thing we’ve seen in years. The students are beside themselves. I think it’s going to be a great experience. Most have never been to D.C. before.”
As part of their coursework, the students will be videotaping and photographing their experiences for presentations to the university community and local high schools when they return.
For 10 days in January, the students will participate in a unique course that will examine the issues and implications of the Obama administration and study the role the media plays in the political process – all under the backdrop of the nation’s capital.
The seminar starts Jan. 10 and ends Jan. 20, Inauguration Day.
“This is one of the most historic elections in American history and in a time with so many troubles, Barack Obama has promised us so much, so I would like to be a part of this history,” said SBU junior Dan Volkosh of Middleport, N.Y.
The St. Bonaventure students and professor Dr. Danette Brickman, who will serve as a faculty leader and instructor for the course, will join college students from across the country for The Presidential Inauguration program sponsored by The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars.
The seminar program is taught as a course and will examine the issues and implications of the Obama administration. The students’ days will be split between small seminars in the morning and afternoon speakers and visits to sites including embassies, news agencies CNN and Fox, the Brookings Institute, Pew Research Center, Amnesty International and the Democratic and Republican national committees.
Tentative speakers include ABC News anchor Sam Donaldson, the Discovery Channel’s Ted Koppel and U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey.
Volkosh, who is president of the College Democrats, is looking forward to being “in an optimistic atmosphere for 10 days with millions of other Americans and to experience living history in our country’s capital.”
The Presidential Inauguration program will host more than 700 college students from institutions such as Ball State, Loyola Marymount, Miami Dade and the University of Florida.
“I think it’s going to be a great experience for our students because they’re going to be interacting with students from all over the country,” Brickman said.
As part of the course, the students will have the opportunity to visit the Newseum, the new Capitol Visitors Center, attend a U.S. Chamber of Commerce cocktail party/social, and enjoy a special performance by satirist Mark Russell at George Washington University.
Although they don’t have tickets to the inauguration of president-elect Obama, Brickman said the Bona’s contingent “will be trying to get as close as possible” to the inauguration festivities on Jan. 20.
With estimates ranging from 1 million to 5 million people descending on Washington, D.C., to mark the inauguration, Brickman said, “this is going to be the biggest thing we’ve seen in years. The students are beside themselves. I think it’s going to be a great experience. Most have never been to D.C. before.”
As part of their coursework, the students will be videotaping and photographing their experiences for presentations to the university community and local high schools when they return.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Township Settles with McClain
By ANNE HOLLIDAY
WESB/WBRR News Director
Foster Township Supervisors have agreed to a settlement with former police officer Todd McClain.
As part of the $5,000 settlement, all the parties have agreed to not discuss the matter any further, according to township supervisor Chris Wolcott.
In May, a jury found McClain not guilty of taking money from the township police station.
Also during Monday night's meeting, supervisors continued their discussion on the Derrick City and Rew volunteer fire departments.
Derrick Road resident Jim Connolly asked if there's anything township residents can do to help the departments. He suggested a "recruitment day" to make residents more aware of things they could do to help the departments.
"Maybe somebody doesn't want to go into a burning building," Connolly said, "but they could collect money (to help them)."
Other suggestions for people who don't necessarily want to fight fires include working at bingo and cleaning the fire halls.
"We have good volunteers," said Supervisor Chairman Bob Slike. "There just aren't enough of them."
The supervisors said they have been meeting with the departments to come up with ideas to bolster enrollment. Wolcott agreed that a recruitment day is a good idea.
In other matters, supervisors passed a resolution that would add several roads to the state Liquid Fuels System.
The roads are Mark Lane, Best Avenue, Skaggs Drive, Smith Drive, Riley Road and Fosterview Drive. Road Supervisor Joe Sweet said the additions add up to about one mile.
Also, township engineer Roy Pedersen said the wetlands delineation report for the sewer extension project should be ready to submit to the state Department of Environmental Protection by the end of the month.
"It seems like it's making some progress," Pedersen said.
Wolcott noted that the census bureau is looking for temporary employees for next year's census.
He said it's important to have local people doing the census to make sure the township gets its share of Community Development Block Grant funding.
Anyone interested in the job should contact the township office.
Slike officially welcomed Tim Hortons in the new Crosby's to the township.
Supervisor Cary Kaber applauded the township employees for helping supervisors hold the line on taxes.
"That was a nice Christmas present for the taxpayers of Foster Township," Connolly said. "I don't know how you did it, but you did it and that's all that matters. ... This is a nice township to live in."
WESB/WBRR News Director
Foster Township Supervisors have agreed to a settlement with former police officer Todd McClain.
As part of the $5,000 settlement, all the parties have agreed to not discuss the matter any further, according to township supervisor Chris Wolcott.
In May, a jury found McClain not guilty of taking money from the township police station.
Also during Monday night's meeting, supervisors continued their discussion on the Derrick City and Rew volunteer fire departments.
Derrick Road resident Jim Connolly asked if there's anything township residents can do to help the departments. He suggested a "recruitment day" to make residents more aware of things they could do to help the departments.
"Maybe somebody doesn't want to go into a burning building," Connolly said, "but they could collect money (to help them)."
Other suggestions for people who don't necessarily want to fight fires include working at bingo and cleaning the fire halls.
"We have good volunteers," said Supervisor Chairman Bob Slike. "There just aren't enough of them."
The supervisors said they have been meeting with the departments to come up with ideas to bolster enrollment. Wolcott agreed that a recruitment day is a good idea.
In other matters, supervisors passed a resolution that would add several roads to the state Liquid Fuels System.
The roads are Mark Lane, Best Avenue, Skaggs Drive, Smith Drive, Riley Road and Fosterview Drive. Road Supervisor Joe Sweet said the additions add up to about one mile.
Also, township engineer Roy Pedersen said the wetlands delineation report for the sewer extension project should be ready to submit to the state Department of Environmental Protection by the end of the month.
"It seems like it's making some progress," Pedersen said.
Wolcott noted that the census bureau is looking for temporary employees for next year's census.
He said it's important to have local people doing the census to make sure the township gets its share of Community Development Block Grant funding.
Anyone interested in the job should contact the township office.
Slike officially welcomed Tim Hortons in the new Crosby's to the township.
Supervisor Cary Kaber applauded the township employees for helping supervisors hold the line on taxes.
"That was a nice Christmas present for the taxpayers of Foster Township," Connolly said. "I don't know how you did it, but you did it and that's all that matters. ... This is a nice township to live in."
Skiing Accident Victim ID'd
The victim of Saturday’s fatal skiing accident at Ski Denton has been identified as 13-year-old Patrick Shire of Haymarket, Virginia.
Potter County Coroner Kevin Dusenbury said today that Shire died when he went off the trail and hit a tree. The cause of death was blunt force trauma.
The accident happened at about 2:45 p.m. Saturday. Dusenbury pronounced Shire dead at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital.
Potter County Coroner Kevin Dusenbury said today that Shire died when he went off the trail and hit a tree. The cause of death was blunt force trauma.
The accident happened at about 2:45 p.m. Saturday. Dusenbury pronounced Shire dead at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital.
Auxiliary, Club Touching Hearts
George Nianiatus, senior writer
Communications Department
If supporting two worthy community causes while getting a chance to dance and have your plate piled high with delectable food sounds appealing, the “Touching Hearts, Changing Lives” fundraiser will be a must-attend event in early February.
The fundraiser, slated for Saturday, Feb. 7, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the Grace Lutheran Church Community Life Center, 79 Mechanic St., partners Bradford Hospital Auxiliary and the AKtion Club as event co-sponsors.
Proceeds from the Valentine’s Day-type dance will benefit the Auxiliary, whose goal is to support Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC), and also the AKtion Club, a Kiwanis-sponsored organization for adults with disabilities.
The Auxiliary made its largest pledge in history of $300,000 to support BRMC’s Capital Campaign. A $60,000 donation by the Auxiliary was made last year toward its five-year pledge amount.
Meanwhile, the AKtion Club is Bradford’s newest community service club that’s already made an impact by helping with Hanley Park renovation work and assisting The Salvation Army with its Kettle Drive.
The upcoming dance, which includes music by EJ the DJ and a large video screen for added visual effects, is intended to have wide community interest, say organizers. A large hors d’oeuvres buffet will be catered by the Kennedy Street Café.
The cost to attend is $50, which provides a ticket for the purchaser and also sponsors an adult with a disability to attend. For each ticket purchased, $25 is tax-deductible, say organizers.
Corporate and community sponsorships are available to support the event as well. Those interested can contact Virginia Hauser, the Auxiliary’s executive director, at her office at 362-8582.
“This dance brings an exciting twist to the community,” says Mrs. Hauser. “It will be one of the most fun-filled events of the year.” What’s more, “By attending, you’ll be helping to financially support the Auxiliary and its fundraising mission, including healthcare scholarships, as well as enable the AKtion Club to pursue its community-service interests,” Mrs. Hauser explains.
When the possibility arose for the Auxiliary and the AKtion Club to work together in organizing a dual-purpose fundraiser, there was little hesitation by either group.
“It was a resounding yes. That was our response when the Auxiliary was approached with the idea of partnering with the newly formed AKtion Club for this year’s event,” says Vonda Reese, the Auxiliary’s vice president.
“Recognizing the economic challenges that many organizations face today, we accepted the offer of the AKtion Club to assist with our fundraising efforts this year,” Mrs. Reese says.
“Touching Hearts, Changing Lives is exactly what we hope to achieve the weekend before Valentine’s Day. The impact on our committee’s hearts has already been felt. The level of enthusiasm Mike Walter and Chelsea Albright (the AKtion Club’s president and vice president, respectively) bring as officers of their new club is incredible. From menu planning to music selection, their level of participation and
commitment to the success of this project is evident,” Mrs. Reese adds.
“We are really looking forward to helping out with this project,” says Mr. Walter. “It’s a good project for the AKtion Club because there are a lot of things we can do to help out. We have been meeting with the Auxiliary to help with the planning.”
Referring to the event that will ultimately help support BRMC and also the AKtion Club, Mr. Walter says, “It’s a good cause that’s important for everyone. Every time that I hear a helicopter come and go, I think about how important BRMC is to Bradford.”
He notes, “I think the dance will be a lot of fun for everyone who attends. You’ll be able see a lot of your friends and help out the hospital.”
Tickets are available at HeartStrings Gift Shop, located in the Outpatient Services Center lobby of BRMC, Northwest Savings Bank offices, or by calling HeartStrings at 362-8582.
(In the photo, courtesy of BRMC, Mike Walter, AKtion Club president, and Virginia Hauser, Bradford Hospital Auxiliary’s executive director, display a poster which publicizes the upcoming fundraiser, ‘Touching Hearts, Changing Lives,’ slated for Feb. 7 at the Grace Lutheran Church Community Life Center.)
Letter From DA John Pavlock
on Mayor Tom Riel's Speech
I am writing to you to address several recent statements made by Bradford City Mayor Tom Riel regarding the handling of a McKean County criminal case that I believe are misleading, inaccurate and incomplete. However, before I do that I want to make it clear that I am making this statement because I believe that the public is entitled to have correct facts and information about their criminal justice system. I am not doing this because of any animosity toward Mayor Riel. I have worked with Mayor Riel and Chief Close regarding several important issues since the Mayor took office. I believe that, despite our clear disagreement regarding this one issue, overall we have had a productive working relationship with the Mayor’s Office. Although I strongly disagree with several of the Mayor’s recent assertions, because I believe the public needs solutions from its elected officials and not squabbles, I will continue to try and productively work with the Mayor and I hope he will continue to do the same with our office.
I recently read the article in the Bradford Era regarding statements made by Mayor Tom Riel about: 1) a “clumsy plot” against him by a “few rogue members of law enforcement;” and, 2) an assertion, implied or otherwise, that the case against Dennis Fuino was affected by this “clumsy plot.” Since it specifically deals with operations in my office, I first want to address the Mayor’s assertion regarding Mr. Fuino’s cases. I have thoroughly reviewed all aspects of our handling of Mr. Fuino’s cases and, again so that the public will have correct information, am releasing the following outline of facts.
Attached hereto is a Memo that I had Assistant District Attorney Raymond Learn prepare for me. I had Mr. Learn prepare this Memo because he is the prosecutor who prepared to handle this case at trial and, therefore, is very familiar with it and its procedural history. As this Memo reflects, there was both direct eyewitness testimony that Mr. Fuino was the individual who robbed the Crosby Mini-Mart and strong circumstantial evidence. In addition to the evidence outlined in Assistant District Attorney Learn’s Memo, I recently received another statement regarding this case. After the Bradford Era ran a story about the Mayor’s claims on December 31, 2008, Trooper Theodore Race of the Pennsylvania State Police, who was at the District Attorney’s Office regarding another matter, advised me that Mr. Fuino, while being transported by him to a court proceeding, admitted to being the individual who robbed the Lewis Run Mini-Mart. Mr. Fuino told Trooper Race that he was sorry he committed the robbery and he only did it because of drug dependency issues. Since this information came to light after Mr. Fuino already plead no contest, it was not previously provided to defense counsel. However, I have now asked Trooper Race to prepare a formal report regarding his conversation with Mr. Fuino and will provide a copy of that report to Mr. Fuino’s defense attorney as soon as I receive a copy of it.
Also, there is no summary in the attached Memo of specific conversations that I had with Attorney Dennis Luttenauer and Attorney Ronald Langella who represented the defendant. Very early in the case when Attorney Langella was appointed as defense counsel, I advised him that there was an issue involving Mr. Fuino that I had referred to the Attorney General’s Office. I explained that, since the matter that was referred did not involve Mr. Fuino as a defendant and I did not see any connection between it and the current case, I did not believe that our office had any conflict with prosecuting the Lewis Run Mini-Mart robbery case. I specifically indicated that I would not speak about any matters that the Attorney General’s Office was handling and the Attorney General’s Office should be contacted if there was any question about their investigation. When Attorney Lutttenauer took over this case I had a similar conversation with him. Up until the Mayor’s December 30, 2008 speech, no one has ever indicated that they believed our office had a conflict with this case or asked that I refer the robbery at the Lewis Run Mini-Mart over to the Attorney General’s Office. Also, based on the numerous times that they spoke with me and my office about this case, their testing of the strength of our case and the hard fought nature of their plea negotiations, I have to strongly disagree with the Mayor’s third party assertion that Mr. Fuino’s defense attorneys did not care and/or neglected his case.
I am also troubled over the Mayor’s apparent refusal to speak to me about his concerns regarding my office’s handling of the Fuino case. The first time that I was aware of Mayor Riel’s concerns was Tuesday, December 30, 2008 when the Mayor expressed concerns about the handling of the Fuino case in a public speech. He had never expressed concerns to me about how our office handled this case prior to making this speech. The Mayor certainly has had opportunity to express any concerns if he had them. I would have gladly either spoken to the Mayor if I was available or returned a call if he left a message for me. Also, I did have two brief conversations with the Mayor about Mr. Fuino prior to the Mayor making his speech and he could have told me what was on his mind then. However, he not only didn’t express concern but specifically indicated that he did not believe that our office had done anything inappropriately. The first conversation occurred shortly after the Mayor took Office. Since there had been a change in administration, the County Detective and I, at our request, met with the Mayor and Chief Close. During that meeting to our surprise the Mayor indicated that he was aware that allegations had been made about him and he was going to get to the bottom of it. This surprised me because, as I explain below, I had referred a claim of this nature to the Attorney General’s Office and I was concerned that, since the Mayor already knew that Mr. Fuino was involved, someone had leaked information to the Mayor. I advised the Mayor that, if there was an investigation or even an allegation regarding him, I would refer it to the Attorney General’s Office because I clearly would have a conflict with the case. The next time I heard anything from the Mayor was in a very short telephone call which, to the best of my recollection, occurred in August 2008. My office received a call from staff at the McKean County Jail and was advised that Mayor Riel had shown up at the Jail on a non visiting day, demanded to speak with Mr. Fuino and was “causing a scene.” Apparently, when he was told that he would have to come back on a regular scheduled visiting day, the Mayor became very angry and demanded to speak with Mr. Fuino immediately. He then told the staff at the Jail that he knew that this was “all a cover up.”
He indicated that he would get Chief Close to the Jail if that was what it took and then left. When I was advised about this incident, I first contacted Chief Close to see what this was about. When Chief Close indicated that he was not involved in an investigation regarding Fuino and did not know why his name was mentioned, I contacted the Mayor directly. I explained what I heard and specifically asked him if he had concerns about how my office was handling the Fuino case. He said that he had concerns about allegations made regarding him but that he was not claiming that we had done anything inappropriate. I made it clear that I did not care how much he talked to Fuino and had nothing to do with the Jail’s policy. He said he understood and that was the end of the conversation. On December 30, 2008 when I read a story on the internet about the Mayor’s allegations, I attempted to contact the Mayor and schedule a time to meet with him to discuss this matter. I wanted to set up this meeting so that I could provide the Mayor with the facts that I have and look into any concerns that he has. I left a message for the Mayor to call me either that evening or first thing the next day. Although I have received confirmation that the Mayor received my message on December 30, 2008, he has yet to return my call. I am still willing to meet with the Mayor and will set up such a meeting if he ever returns my call.
Regarding Mayor Riel’s second assertion, which again is an assertion that there was a “clumsy plot” by a “few rogue members of law enforcement,” I can confirm several things. First, I confirm that I referred two separate but related matters to the Attorney General’s Office regarding the Mayor. Initially and before he was sworn in as Mayor, I referred an allegation regarding drug use by the Mayor to the Attorney General’s Office. I referred the matter to the Attorney General’s Office within an hour of hearing about it. After that initial referral and after Mayor Riel took office, Mayor Riel approached me and told me that he was aware that an investigation was under taken involving him and the claims were “bogus” and “illegal.” I then immediately referred the Mayor’s claims of wrongdoing to the Attorney General’s Office. In accordance with the law, I am obligated to refer a case to the Attorney General’s Office when I believe that my office has a conflict of interest or a possible perceived conflict of interest regarding a case or investigation. Of course, since: A) the Mayor oversees the operations of the Bradford City Police Department; B) the Mayor and City Council set the budget of the Bradford City Police Department; and, C) my office works closely with the Bradford City Police Department, it was clear that I had a conflict with both of these matters. The referral of a case is in no way a reflection on the strength of the underlying allegations. If I believe our office has a conflict of interest I don’t even get into the underlying facts. Therefore, no one should draw any conclusions regarding the merit of these underlying allegations simply because I referred them to the Attorney General’s Office. I also note that it is my decision and my decision alone regarding referral of a McKean County case to the Attorney General’s Office. Therefore, Mayor Riel’s assertion that he initiated an investigation by the Attorney General’s Office into any matter is incorrect.
I can also confirm that, on December 29, 2008, I received a letter dated December 5, 2008 from the Attorney General’s Office. This letter states that the Attorney General’s Office’s investigation is complete and there was no finding of criminal activity by anyone. It is set forth in the letter that, although the single officer involved could have been more critical of the initial claim made by an informant regarding Mayor Riel, this officer did not act criminally. Since I referred these matters to the Attorney General’s Office, I cannot comment further regarding their investigation. Any additional questions regarding their investigation should be addressed to them. Also, I do not know when or if Mayor Riel was advised of the Attorney General’s office of their findings.
Although it would be inappropriate for me to comment further about the Attorney General’s investigation(s), I do have some general concerns about the effect that the Mayor’s comments may have on overall police morale. I would have relayed these concerns directly to the Mayor had he been willing to speak with me. However, as I discuss above, he is apparently declining to speak to me. Therefore, I feel compelled to express them here. I noticed that several of the blog responses to the Mayor’s comments on line are negative to the entire police force. I take great issue with these type of conclusions and statements. I know that there are many fine and extremely dedicated Officers at Bradford City. Although the Mayor has raised concerns, concerns that have now been found not to be criminal, I think that, if he was willing to talk to me, even the Mayor would indicate that he was only talking about one or two officers. In the midst of their numbers being reduced, I don’t want the Bradford City Police Department to have even more grief added to their plate. I want Chief Close, all Bradford City Police Officers and the public to know that I appreciate and thank them for their dedication and hard work. I also don’t understand why the Mayor ignores the fact that it was the State Police who investigated the Lewis Run Mini-Mart robbery and filed charges. I truly hope that he is not trying to say that all of these agencies, the Bradford City Police, the Pennsylvania State Police, the District Attorney’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office are all involved in some sort of broad plot to sweep things under the rug because, since he has provided no credible evidence to support these claims, that clearly would border on the bizarre and absurd.
Sincerely,
John H. Pavlock
John Pavlock's Letter( doc)
Pavlock Memo (doc)
I recently read the article in the Bradford Era regarding statements made by Mayor Tom Riel about: 1) a “clumsy plot” against him by a “few rogue members of law enforcement;” and, 2) an assertion, implied or otherwise, that the case against Dennis Fuino was affected by this “clumsy plot.” Since it specifically deals with operations in my office, I first want to address the Mayor’s assertion regarding Mr. Fuino’s cases. I have thoroughly reviewed all aspects of our handling of Mr. Fuino’s cases and, again so that the public will have correct information, am releasing the following outline of facts.
Attached hereto is a Memo that I had Assistant District Attorney Raymond Learn prepare for me. I had Mr. Learn prepare this Memo because he is the prosecutor who prepared to handle this case at trial and, therefore, is very familiar with it and its procedural history. As this Memo reflects, there was both direct eyewitness testimony that Mr. Fuino was the individual who robbed the Crosby Mini-Mart and strong circumstantial evidence. In addition to the evidence outlined in Assistant District Attorney Learn’s Memo, I recently received another statement regarding this case. After the Bradford Era ran a story about the Mayor’s claims on December 31, 2008, Trooper Theodore Race of the Pennsylvania State Police, who was at the District Attorney’s Office regarding another matter, advised me that Mr. Fuino, while being transported by him to a court proceeding, admitted to being the individual who robbed the Lewis Run Mini-Mart. Mr. Fuino told Trooper Race that he was sorry he committed the robbery and he only did it because of drug dependency issues. Since this information came to light after Mr. Fuino already plead no contest, it was not previously provided to defense counsel. However, I have now asked Trooper Race to prepare a formal report regarding his conversation with Mr. Fuino and will provide a copy of that report to Mr. Fuino’s defense attorney as soon as I receive a copy of it.
Also, there is no summary in the attached Memo of specific conversations that I had with Attorney Dennis Luttenauer and Attorney Ronald Langella who represented the defendant. Very early in the case when Attorney Langella was appointed as defense counsel, I advised him that there was an issue involving Mr. Fuino that I had referred to the Attorney General’s Office. I explained that, since the matter that was referred did not involve Mr. Fuino as a defendant and I did not see any connection between it and the current case, I did not believe that our office had any conflict with prosecuting the Lewis Run Mini-Mart robbery case. I specifically indicated that I would not speak about any matters that the Attorney General’s Office was handling and the Attorney General’s Office should be contacted if there was any question about their investigation. When Attorney Lutttenauer took over this case I had a similar conversation with him. Up until the Mayor’s December 30, 2008 speech, no one has ever indicated that they believed our office had a conflict with this case or asked that I refer the robbery at the Lewis Run Mini-Mart over to the Attorney General’s Office. Also, based on the numerous times that they spoke with me and my office about this case, their testing of the strength of our case and the hard fought nature of their plea negotiations, I have to strongly disagree with the Mayor’s third party assertion that Mr. Fuino’s defense attorneys did not care and/or neglected his case.
I am also troubled over the Mayor’s apparent refusal to speak to me about his concerns regarding my office’s handling of the Fuino case. The first time that I was aware of Mayor Riel’s concerns was Tuesday, December 30, 2008 when the Mayor expressed concerns about the handling of the Fuino case in a public speech. He had never expressed concerns to me about how our office handled this case prior to making this speech. The Mayor certainly has had opportunity to express any concerns if he had them. I would have gladly either spoken to the Mayor if I was available or returned a call if he left a message for me. Also, I did have two brief conversations with the Mayor about Mr. Fuino prior to the Mayor making his speech and he could have told me what was on his mind then. However, he not only didn’t express concern but specifically indicated that he did not believe that our office had done anything inappropriately. The first conversation occurred shortly after the Mayor took Office. Since there had been a change in administration, the County Detective and I, at our request, met with the Mayor and Chief Close. During that meeting to our surprise the Mayor indicated that he was aware that allegations had been made about him and he was going to get to the bottom of it. This surprised me because, as I explain below, I had referred a claim of this nature to the Attorney General’s Office and I was concerned that, since the Mayor already knew that Mr. Fuino was involved, someone had leaked information to the Mayor. I advised the Mayor that, if there was an investigation or even an allegation regarding him, I would refer it to the Attorney General’s Office because I clearly would have a conflict with the case. The next time I heard anything from the Mayor was in a very short telephone call which, to the best of my recollection, occurred in August 2008. My office received a call from staff at the McKean County Jail and was advised that Mayor Riel had shown up at the Jail on a non visiting day, demanded to speak with Mr. Fuino and was “causing a scene.” Apparently, when he was told that he would have to come back on a regular scheduled visiting day, the Mayor became very angry and demanded to speak with Mr. Fuino immediately. He then told the staff at the Jail that he knew that this was “all a cover up.”
He indicated that he would get Chief Close to the Jail if that was what it took and then left. When I was advised about this incident, I first contacted Chief Close to see what this was about. When Chief Close indicated that he was not involved in an investigation regarding Fuino and did not know why his name was mentioned, I contacted the Mayor directly. I explained what I heard and specifically asked him if he had concerns about how my office was handling the Fuino case. He said that he had concerns about allegations made regarding him but that he was not claiming that we had done anything inappropriate. I made it clear that I did not care how much he talked to Fuino and had nothing to do with the Jail’s policy. He said he understood and that was the end of the conversation. On December 30, 2008 when I read a story on the internet about the Mayor’s allegations, I attempted to contact the Mayor and schedule a time to meet with him to discuss this matter. I wanted to set up this meeting so that I could provide the Mayor with the facts that I have and look into any concerns that he has. I left a message for the Mayor to call me either that evening or first thing the next day. Although I have received confirmation that the Mayor received my message on December 30, 2008, he has yet to return my call. I am still willing to meet with the Mayor and will set up such a meeting if he ever returns my call.
Regarding Mayor Riel’s second assertion, which again is an assertion that there was a “clumsy plot” by a “few rogue members of law enforcement,” I can confirm several things. First, I confirm that I referred two separate but related matters to the Attorney General’s Office regarding the Mayor. Initially and before he was sworn in as Mayor, I referred an allegation regarding drug use by the Mayor to the Attorney General’s Office. I referred the matter to the Attorney General’s Office within an hour of hearing about it. After that initial referral and after Mayor Riel took office, Mayor Riel approached me and told me that he was aware that an investigation was under taken involving him and the claims were “bogus” and “illegal.” I then immediately referred the Mayor’s claims of wrongdoing to the Attorney General’s Office. In accordance with the law, I am obligated to refer a case to the Attorney General’s Office when I believe that my office has a conflict of interest or a possible perceived conflict of interest regarding a case or investigation. Of course, since: A) the Mayor oversees the operations of the Bradford City Police Department; B) the Mayor and City Council set the budget of the Bradford City Police Department; and, C) my office works closely with the Bradford City Police Department, it was clear that I had a conflict with both of these matters. The referral of a case is in no way a reflection on the strength of the underlying allegations. If I believe our office has a conflict of interest I don’t even get into the underlying facts. Therefore, no one should draw any conclusions regarding the merit of these underlying allegations simply because I referred them to the Attorney General’s Office. I also note that it is my decision and my decision alone regarding referral of a McKean County case to the Attorney General’s Office. Therefore, Mayor Riel’s assertion that he initiated an investigation by the Attorney General’s Office into any matter is incorrect.
I can also confirm that, on December 29, 2008, I received a letter dated December 5, 2008 from the Attorney General’s Office. This letter states that the Attorney General’s Office’s investigation is complete and there was no finding of criminal activity by anyone. It is set forth in the letter that, although the single officer involved could have been more critical of the initial claim made by an informant regarding Mayor Riel, this officer did not act criminally. Since I referred these matters to the Attorney General’s Office, I cannot comment further regarding their investigation. Any additional questions regarding their investigation should be addressed to them. Also, I do not know when or if Mayor Riel was advised of the Attorney General’s office of their findings.
Although it would be inappropriate for me to comment further about the Attorney General’s investigation(s), I do have some general concerns about the effect that the Mayor’s comments may have on overall police morale. I would have relayed these concerns directly to the Mayor had he been willing to speak with me. However, as I discuss above, he is apparently declining to speak to me. Therefore, I feel compelled to express them here. I noticed that several of the blog responses to the Mayor’s comments on line are negative to the entire police force. I take great issue with these type of conclusions and statements. I know that there are many fine and extremely dedicated Officers at Bradford City. Although the Mayor has raised concerns, concerns that have now been found not to be criminal, I think that, if he was willing to talk to me, even the Mayor would indicate that he was only talking about one or two officers. In the midst of their numbers being reduced, I don’t want the Bradford City Police Department to have even more grief added to their plate. I want Chief Close, all Bradford City Police Officers and the public to know that I appreciate and thank them for their dedication and hard work. I also don’t understand why the Mayor ignores the fact that it was the State Police who investigated the Lewis Run Mini-Mart robbery and filed charges. I truly hope that he is not trying to say that all of these agencies, the Bradford City Police, the Pennsylvania State Police, the District Attorney’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office are all involved in some sort of broad plot to sweep things under the rug because, since he has provided no credible evidence to support these claims, that clearly would border on the bizarre and absurd.
Sincerely,
John H. Pavlock
John Pavlock's Letter( doc)
Pavlock Memo (doc)
1st College Zombie Squad at UPB
Students at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford have formed the first official college chapter of Zombie Squad, a nationwide organization dedicated to disaster preparedness with a twist of fun.
The Zombie Squad at Pitt-Bradford has been recognized as the first official college chapter by Zombie Squad headquarters in St. Louis, Mo.
Zombie Squad focuses its efforts toward educating members and their communities about the importance of disaster preparation and self reliance in the face of disasters such as earthquakes, floods, fires and even terrorism.
The group is also committed to hosting food, blood and canned food drives, disaster relief charity fundraisers and disaster preparation seminars, and members volunteer their time toward emergency response agencies such as the American Red Cross.
There are currently eight chapters and almost 800 official Zombie Squad members. Pitt-Bradford is the home of the organization’s newest chapter.
But the organization is not all work and no play – in addition to performing community service, members are united in appreciation for the zombie movies that provide a fun theme for much of the group’s disaster preparation training.
“It has really taken our enthusiasm for zombie movies and turned it into something educational,” said Mike Sheets, an English major from Mountain Top who is president of the new club. “We look forward to recruiting more students and participating in more community service projects this semester.”
During the fall semester, Zombie Squad at Pitt-Bradford participated in the Panther Pride Day of Service by collecting canned goods for the Salvation Army, helped coordinate “The World’s a Scary Place” educational Halloween program in collaboration with the Office of Residential Life and Housing, hosted “Night of the Living Dead” movie night and also coordinated a chili cook-off fundraiser.
For more information about the national organization go to www.zombiehunters.org.
The Zombie Squad at Pitt-Bradford has been recognized as the first official college chapter by Zombie Squad headquarters in St. Louis, Mo.
Zombie Squad focuses its efforts toward educating members and their communities about the importance of disaster preparation and self reliance in the face of disasters such as earthquakes, floods, fires and even terrorism.
The group is also committed to hosting food, blood and canned food drives, disaster relief charity fundraisers and disaster preparation seminars, and members volunteer their time toward emergency response agencies such as the American Red Cross.
There are currently eight chapters and almost 800 official Zombie Squad members. Pitt-Bradford is the home of the organization’s newest chapter.
But the organization is not all work and no play – in addition to performing community service, members are united in appreciation for the zombie movies that provide a fun theme for much of the group’s disaster preparation training.
“It has really taken our enthusiasm for zombie movies and turned it into something educational,” said Mike Sheets, an English major from Mountain Top who is president of the new club. “We look forward to recruiting more students and participating in more community service projects this semester.”
During the fall semester, Zombie Squad at Pitt-Bradford participated in the Panther Pride Day of Service by collecting canned goods for the Salvation Army, helped coordinate “The World’s a Scary Place” educational Halloween program in collaboration with the Office of Residential Life and Housing, hosted “Night of the Living Dead” movie night and also coordinated a chili cook-off fundraiser.
For more information about the national organization go to www.zombiehunters.org.
Age Lower for 'Independent Study'
Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe today announced that the agency is lowering the minimum age required for its “independent study” Hunter-Trapper Education Class to 11 years of age.
When first initiated in 2006, the Game Commission joined a nationwide trend among conservation agencies to provide quality hunter education on-line, but limited participating in the course to first-time hunters at least 17-years-of-age. On Sept. 1, the agency lowered the minimum age to 14.
“The concept of obtaining a license for first-time hunters by foregoing the traditional two-day or three-day course recognizes the time constraints of today’s world,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “Distance learning meets the need of today’s changing world by accommodating busy lifestyles, and many young people are already demonstrating that they are able to learn course materials online.
“While hunting is recognized as an opportunity for families to spend quality time together, the actual process of obtaining a first-time hunting license is often the main impediment to people wanting to start out. Distance learning allows students to conveniently study at their own speed with a minimum amount of classroom time.”
Registration is available on-line at the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) by clicking on the “Hunter Education Classes” icon in the center of the homepage. After reading the instructions on how to register, click on the “Go to Calendar” button at the top of the page, and then scroll down and select an “Independent Study” class meeting your scheduling needs.
Once registered, the student is given the option of studying course material online or requesting a copy of a printed manual. Then, on a given date and time, students who completed the home-study portion of the course will spend time with a District Wildlife Conservation Officer to learn about the Game and Wildlife Code, hunting ethics and landowner relations. Students then take the certification test.
“Most students spend about eight to 10 hours completing the home-study portion of the course,” said Keith Snyder, Hunter-Trapper Education Division chief. “Independent study is an established concept used by many universities and other institutions of higher learning. The Game Commission believes our distance learning program provides a needed convenience to busy students.”
When first initiated in 2006, the Game Commission joined a nationwide trend among conservation agencies to provide quality hunter education on-line, but limited participating in the course to first-time hunters at least 17-years-of-age. On Sept. 1, the agency lowered the minimum age to 14.
“The concept of obtaining a license for first-time hunters by foregoing the traditional two-day or three-day course recognizes the time constraints of today’s world,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “Distance learning meets the need of today’s changing world by accommodating busy lifestyles, and many young people are already demonstrating that they are able to learn course materials online.
“While hunting is recognized as an opportunity for families to spend quality time together, the actual process of obtaining a first-time hunting license is often the main impediment to people wanting to start out. Distance learning allows students to conveniently study at their own speed with a minimum amount of classroom time.”
Registration is available on-line at the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) by clicking on the “Hunter Education Classes” icon in the center of the homepage. After reading the instructions on how to register, click on the “Go to Calendar” button at the top of the page, and then scroll down and select an “Independent Study” class meeting your scheduling needs.
Once registered, the student is given the option of studying course material online or requesting a copy of a printed manual. Then, on a given date and time, students who completed the home-study portion of the course will spend time with a District Wildlife Conservation Officer to learn about the Game and Wildlife Code, hunting ethics and landowner relations. Students then take the certification test.
“Most students spend about eight to 10 hours completing the home-study portion of the course,” said Keith Snyder, Hunter-Trapper Education Division chief. “Independent study is an established concept used by many universities and other institutions of higher learning. The Game Commission believes our distance learning program provides a needed convenience to busy students.”
Could It Get Any Trashier?
I guess I wasn't the only person wondering if the "Rock of Love" producers said "Ya know, this show just isn't sleazy enough. Let's cast some trashier girls this season."
From Roger Catlin of the Hartford Courant:
I say this because each season of "Rock of Love" seems to have one or maybe two such women who seem so cartoonish and out there they give bimbos a bad name.
For the rest of the column, go to Courant.com.
BTW ... I'll be watching next week anyway.
From Roger Catlin of the Hartford Courant:
I say this because each season of "Rock of Love" seems to have one or maybe two such women who seem so cartoonish and out there they give bimbos a bad name.
For the rest of the column, go to Courant.com.
BTW ... I'll be watching next week anyway.
Fatal Crash in Town of Poland
A Falconer man is dead after an accident this morning in the Town of Poland.
Sheriff's deputies say 58-year-old Donald Hilgenberg was driving on Route 62 at 9:25 this morning when his vehicle went off the road. They say he over-corrected when he tried to get back on the road and the vehicle rolled over.
Hilgenberg was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff's deputies say 58-year-old Donald Hilgenberg was driving on Route 62 at 9:25 this morning when his vehicle went off the road. They say he over-corrected when he tried to get back on the road and the vehicle rolled over.
Hilgenberg was pronounced dead at the scene.
Senecas Looking at Catskills Casino
The Seneca Nation of Indians has agreed to develop and operate a casino and resort in the Catskills that could raise $160 million in annual revenue for state and local governments.
The casino complex would be built in Monticello, about 80 miles north of New York City.
Seneca President Barry Snyder Sr. says the annual estimated revenue for government could be more than the total from all of the Nation’s three casinos operating in Niagara Falls, Buffalo and Salamanca.
The Nation hasn't approached Governor David Paterson about the proposal yet.
The casino complex would be built in Monticello, about 80 miles north of New York City.
Seneca President Barry Snyder Sr. says the annual estimated revenue for government could be more than the total from all of the Nation’s three casinos operating in Niagara Falls, Buffalo and Salamanca.
The Nation hasn't approached Governor David Paterson about the proposal yet.
Another Attempt to Reduce
Size of PA Legislature
In an effort to reduce the cost of state government, Senator Michael O’Pake plans to once again introduce legislation to cut the size of the legislature.
Senator O’Pake’s proposal, which he first introduced in 1997 and reintroduced in every session thereafter, would reduce the number of Senators to 40 and representatives to 121. With 50 Senators and 203 Representatives, Pennsylvania now has the second-largest legislature in the country.
The Democratic Whip says his proposal to reduce the number of legislative districts will be his first item of business in the 2009-2010 legislative session.
“I’ll be reintroducing my proposal as soon as bills can be filed in the Senate,” Senator O’Pake said. “Whatever need existed in the 1870s for 253 legislators, it doesn’t exist today, and taxpayers shouldn’t be paying for government they don’t need. It’s time to do this.
“Cost effectiveness is a critical issue now more than ever with the state having to look for savings wherever they can be found,” the Reading Democrat said. “The savings in legislative salaries and benefits alone from my legislation would be more than $12 million.”
The state Constitution would need to be amended, requiring the proposal to be passed in two consecutive legislative sessions and win approval from the voters in a referendum.
State lawmakers who were elected or re-elected in the November 4th Election will be sworn into office on Tuesday, January 6, at the State Capitol. They’ll return to Harrisburg two weeks later to begin the new legislative session.
Senator O’Pake’s proposal, which he first introduced in 1997 and reintroduced in every session thereafter, would reduce the number of Senators to 40 and representatives to 121. With 50 Senators and 203 Representatives, Pennsylvania now has the second-largest legislature in the country.
The Democratic Whip says his proposal to reduce the number of legislative districts will be his first item of business in the 2009-2010 legislative session.
“I’ll be reintroducing my proposal as soon as bills can be filed in the Senate,” Senator O’Pake said. “Whatever need existed in the 1870s for 253 legislators, it doesn’t exist today, and taxpayers shouldn’t be paying for government they don’t need. It’s time to do this.
“Cost effectiveness is a critical issue now more than ever with the state having to look for savings wherever they can be found,” the Reading Democrat said. “The savings in legislative salaries and benefits alone from my legislation would be more than $12 million.”
The state Constitution would need to be amended, requiring the proposal to be passed in two consecutive legislative sessions and win approval from the voters in a referendum.
State lawmakers who were elected or re-elected in the November 4th Election will be sworn into office on Tuesday, January 6, at the State Capitol. They’ll return to Harrisburg two weeks later to begin the new legislative session.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Man Accused of Shooting Dog
A South Dayton man is facing charges after allegedly shooting a dog in his home.
Sheriff's Deputies say they responded to 133 Oak Street after receiving a call that a dog had been shot downstairs in the home while the man's wife and four children were upstairs.
38-year-old Harry Smeal was charged with criminal possession of a weapon and four counts of endangering children. Deputies say their investigation is continuing and additional charges may be filed.
Smeal was released on his own recognizance.
Sheriff's Deputies say they responded to 133 Oak Street after receiving a call that a dog had been shot downstairs in the home while the man's wife and four children were upstairs.
38-year-old Harry Smeal was charged with criminal possession of a weapon and four counts of endangering children. Deputies say their investigation is continuing and additional charges may be filed.
Smeal was released on his own recognizance.
Mom Finds Bullet in Baby's Diaper
A Tennessee woman found a bullet in her baby's diaper believed to be from New Year's celebrations:
Beattie Sentenced to Life in Prison
A Warren County man found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of his roommate will spend the rest of his life in prison.
46-year-old David Beattie was found guilty December 16 of shooting his roommate Andrew Balog, who was found lying on his bed, dead, of a single gunshot wound to the head by State Police in February 2008.
Warren County District Attorney Ross McKeirnan referred to the house as a drug-dealing den, and called Balog's death part of the fallout of drug activity.
Beattie is still claiming he's innocent.
46-year-old David Beattie was found guilty December 16 of shooting his roommate Andrew Balog, who was found lying on his bed, dead, of a single gunshot wound to the head by State Police in February 2008.
Warren County District Attorney Ross McKeirnan referred to the house as a drug-dealing den, and called Balog's death part of the fallout of drug activity.
Beattie is still claiming he's innocent.
Penn Gets Gotham's Books
About 200,000 items from the Gotham Book Mart, which closed in 2007 after 87 years as a New York literary haven of international stature, have been donated to the University of Pennsylvania.
An anonymous donor purchased the store’s inventory and donated it to the university.
There are books from the personal libraries of Truman Capote and Anaïs Nin, as well as items signed by Arthur Miller, Tennessee Williams, Robinson Jeffers, Woody Allen, Wallace Stevens and John Updike.
The Gotham Book Mart was founded on West 45th Street in 1920 by Frances Steloff. Its customers included George and Ira Gershwin, Charlie Chaplin, Woody Allen, Katharine Hepburn and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.
For the full story, go to The New York Times.
An anonymous donor purchased the store’s inventory and donated it to the university.
There are books from the personal libraries of Truman Capote and Anaïs Nin, as well as items signed by Arthur Miller, Tennessee Williams, Robinson Jeffers, Woody Allen, Wallace Stevens and John Updike.
The Gotham Book Mart was founded on West 45th Street in 1920 by Frances Steloff. Its customers included George and Ira Gershwin, Charlie Chaplin, Woody Allen, Katharine Hepburn and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.
For the full story, go to The New York Times.
Carucci: Best Days Lie Ahead
Olean Mayor David Carucci says the city is moving in the right direction.
In his State of the City address last night, Carucci also said he's confident that the city's best days lie ahead.
He pointed to several positive changes in the city over the past year, including Park Center Development's multi-tenant and retail complexes, and Dresser-Rand's $4 million test facility and $12 million office complex expansion.
Also last night, Common Council voted to return Alderman Ray Wangelin to the president’s position. He follows Rick Smith, who decided not to seek another term as president.
In his State of the City address last night, Carucci also said he's confident that the city's best days lie ahead.
He pointed to several positive changes in the city over the past year, including Park Center Development's multi-tenant and retail complexes, and Dresser-Rand's $4 million test facility and $12 million office complex expansion.
Also last night, Common Council voted to return Alderman Ray Wangelin to the president’s position. He follows Rick Smith, who decided not to seek another term as president.
Increase in SUNY Tuition
Students attending State University of New York schools will be paying more this semester.
Undergraduate students who live in New York will pay over $300 more in tuition, while out-of-state students will pay about $1,000 more.
The tuition hike is part of Governor David Paterson's attempt to fix the state's financial crisis. This is SUNY’s first tuition increase in more than 5 years
Undergraduate students who live in New York will pay over $300 more in tuition, while out-of-state students will pay about $1,000 more.
The tuition hike is part of Governor David Paterson's attempt to fix the state's financial crisis. This is SUNY’s first tuition increase in more than 5 years
Gene Found in Amish Community
Could Help Fight Heart Disease
Researchers have identified a gene variant that may make people more likely to develop high blood pressure.
Although the variant was found in members of the genetically homogeneous Old Order Amish community in Pennsylvania, it is carried by about one of every five white Americans, said Yen-Pei Christy Chang, assistant professor of medicine, epidemiology and preventive medicine at the University of Maryland. Chang is a leader of the research group reporting the new finding in the current issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
For the full story, go to The Washington Post.
Although the variant was found in members of the genetically homogeneous Old Order Amish community in Pennsylvania, it is carried by about one of every five white Americans, said Yen-Pei Christy Chang, assistant professor of medicine, epidemiology and preventive medicine at the University of Maryland. Chang is a leader of the research group reporting the new finding in the current issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
For the full story, go to The Washington Post.
Attic-Dweller Becomes 'Infamous'
By Edward Lewis elewis@timesleader.com
Staff Writer
Just Google his name and it becomes quite clear.
Stanley Carter, 21, has become infamous around the world despite his failed attempt to remain quiet while allegedly staying in the attic of a Plains Township residence without the homeowner’s knowledge for a week.
For the full story, go to Times Leader.com.
Staff Writer
Just Google his name and it becomes quite clear.
Stanley Carter, 21, has become infamous around the world despite his failed attempt to remain quiet while allegedly staying in the attic of a Plains Township residence without the homeowner’s knowledge for a week.
For the full story, go to Times Leader.com.
To Our WESB Listeners:
It's not our decision to replace Bill O'Reilly. O'Reilly is leaving radio to concentrate on his television show.
"NEW YORK, Dec. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Westwood One is pleased to announce the debut of The Fred Thompson Show on March 2, 2009. The show will replace The Radio Factor with Bill O'Reilly when the program ends its successful six-year run on February 27, 2009."
Read the story HERE.
We have not decided yet whether to run The Fred Thompson Show, or something else. But, no matter how many e-mails you send us telling us not to drop O'Reilly, we have no choice.
"NEW YORK, Dec. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Westwood One is pleased to announce the debut of The Fred Thompson Show on March 2, 2009. The show will replace The Radio Factor with Bill O'Reilly when the program ends its successful six-year run on February 27, 2009."
Read the story HERE.
We have not decided yet whether to run The Fred Thompson Show, or something else. But, no matter how many e-mails you send us telling us not to drop O'Reilly, we have no choice.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Travolta's Son Dies in Bahamas
Police in the Bahamas say John Travolta's teenage son has died after injuring himself at the actor's vacation home.
Police spokeswoman Loretta Mackey says 16-year-old Jett Travolta hit his head in a bathtub Friday morning. She said he was declared dead at Rand Memorial Hospital on Grand Bahama Island.
Jett was the oldest child of Travolta and his wife, actress Kelly Preston, who also have an 8-year-old daughter.
A spokeswoman for the hospital in Freeport said she could not release any information because of privacy concerns.
For more, go to CNN.com.
Police spokeswoman Loretta Mackey says 16-year-old Jett Travolta hit his head in a bathtub Friday morning. She said he was declared dead at Rand Memorial Hospital on Grand Bahama Island.
Jett was the oldest child of Travolta and his wife, actress Kelly Preston, who also have an 8-year-old daughter.
A spokeswoman for the hospital in Freeport said she could not release any information because of privacy concerns.
For more, go to CNN.com.
It's That Time of Year Again
Lake Superior State University "maverick" word-watchers, fresh from the holiday "staycation" but without an economic "bailout" even after a "desperate search," have issued their 34th annual List of Words to Be Banished from the Queen's English for Mis-use, Over-use and General Uselessness.
On the list:
"It's that time of year again!"
"Green"
"Carbon Footprint"
"First Dude"
For the list, and more, go to the LSSU Web site.
On the list:
"It's that time of year again!"
"Green"
"Carbon Footprint"
"First Dude"
For the list, and more, go to the LSSU Web site.
The Boss, The Super Bowl and You!
You may have heard Dan talking about this:
On February 1, 2009 Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will perform in the Bridgestone Super Bowl XLIII Halftime Show in Tampa Bay at Raymond James Stadium. We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to be part of the on-field audience for the show.
For more information, go to Super Bowl Cast.com.
On February 1, 2009 Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will perform in the Bridgestone Super Bowl XLIII Halftime Show in Tampa Bay at Raymond James Stadium. We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to be part of the on-field audience for the show.
For more information, go to Super Bowl Cast.com.
Another Earthquake in PA
2008 went out with a bang in the Dillsburg area. Authorities say a small earthquake jarred the York County area just after the midnight on New Year's Eve.
The U.S. Geological Survey says the tremor measured a 2.1 magnitude on the Richter scale. It was centered near Dillsburg and struck about 12:30 a.m. Dec. 31.
For the full story, go to pennlive.com.
The U.S. Geological Survey says the tremor measured a 2.1 magnitude on the Richter scale. It was centered near Dillsburg and struck about 12:30 a.m. Dec. 31.
For the full story, go to pennlive.com.
Philly Mummers Parade Struts On
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Musicians dressed as Wild West gunslingers and comics dressed as bullfighters, knights and Mexican wrestlers strutted through downtown Thursday during the annual Mummers Parade, celebrating New Year's Day and, perhaps, the fact the beloved tradition did not fall victim to the city's budget ax.
Thousands braved sunny but frigid temperatures that rose to 30 degrees to ring in 2009 Philadelphia-style, watching the parade of comics, musicians and others dressed in elaborate costumes of satin, sequins and feathers.
For the full story, go to pennlive.com.
To learn more about the Mummers (and to see some great pictures!) go to Philly Mummers.com.
Thousands braved sunny but frigid temperatures that rose to 30 degrees to ring in 2009 Philadelphia-style, watching the parade of comics, musicians and others dressed in elaborate costumes of satin, sequins and feathers.
For the full story, go to pennlive.com.
To learn more about the Mummers (and to see some great pictures!) go to Philly Mummers.com.
Tough Year Already for Corry Cops
Corry Police have had a tough year already.
At 1:40 a.m. Thursday they were called to a home for a noise complaint and, after they got there, they say 20-year-old Michael Smith began fighting with them, and 41-year-old Penny Smith repeatedly hit one of them.
About an hour later, they were called to a report of a burglary in progress.
When they arrived, they said they found 31-year-old Jeremy Meerhoff and 31-year-old Carol Bane. Bane allegedly pushed and struck an officer. She and the Smiths were charged with aggravated assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. Meerhoff was charged with disorderly conduct.
The officers involved in the incidents were not hurt.
At 1:40 a.m. Thursday they were called to a home for a noise complaint and, after they got there, they say 20-year-old Michael Smith began fighting with them, and 41-year-old Penny Smith repeatedly hit one of them.
About an hour later, they were called to a report of a burglary in progress.
When they arrived, they said they found 31-year-old Jeremy Meerhoff and 31-year-old Carol Bane. Bane allegedly pushed and struck an officer. She and the Smiths were charged with aggravated assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. Meerhoff was charged with disorderly conduct.
The officers involved in the incidents were not hurt.
Paterson Leaning Toward Kennedy?
ALBANY, N.Y. - Officials say the daughter of the late President John F. Kennedy will be the governor's choice to fill the New York Senate seat being vacated by Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Two people close to Gov. David Paterson tell The Associated Press they believe Caroline Kennedy will be his choice, but the governor cautions he's still looking.
For the full story, go to MSNBC.com
Two people close to Gov. David Paterson tell The Associated Press they believe Caroline Kennedy will be his choice, but the governor cautions he's still looking.
For the full story, go to MSNBC.com
New Fire-Safe Cigarette Law
FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Laws mandating stores only sell cigarettes that are slow-burning and fire-safe went into effect in five states on New Year's Day.
Delaware, Iowa, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Texas on Thursday joined 17 other states in mandating the fire-safe cigarettes. Fifteen other states have laws that will take effect this year or next, according to the Coalition for Fire-Safe Cigarettes.
For the full story, go to pennlive.com.
Delaware, Iowa, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Texas on Thursday joined 17 other states in mandating the fire-safe cigarettes. Fifteen other states have laws that will take effect this year or next, according to the Coalition for Fire-Safe Cigarettes.
For the full story, go to pennlive.com.
Suicides in National Parks Increase
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Freshly unemployed, former business executive Bruce J. Colburn flew to the far northwest corner of Montana in search of a place to die.
In early October, he paid a hotel clerk to drive him into Glacier National Park. He spent the night in a campground and then made his way on foot to a valley between two deep glacial lakes. On a forested slope not far from the trail, he shot himself in the chest with a handgun, according to park officials.
For the full story, go to pennlive.com.
In early October, he paid a hotel clerk to drive him into Glacier National Park. He spent the night in a campground and then made his way on foot to a valley between two deep glacial lakes. On a forested slope not far from the trail, he shot himself in the chest with a handgun, according to park officials.
For the full story, go to pennlive.com.
Radiology Accreditation at CCMH
Charles Cole Memorial Hospital has been awarded a three-year accreditation as a result of a recent survey by the American College of Radiology.
“We are very proud to have earned ACR accreditation,” said Keith Hartjen, director of radiology services at CCMH. “This accreditation demonstrates our commitment to quality patient-centered care and I thank Scott Brewer and Dee Taylor for all of their hard work and help in achieving this certification.”
ACR awards accreditation to facilities for the achievement of high practice standards after a peer-reviewed evaluation which is conducted by board certified physicians and medial physicists. They assess the qualifications of the personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment. The surveyors report their finds to the ACR’s committee on accreditation, which provides the practice with a comprehensive report. The ACR is a national organization serving more than 32,000 diagnostic and interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, and nuclear medicine and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.
For more information on CCMH’s imaging services, visit http://www.charlescolehospital.com/services_imaging.shtml.
“We are very proud to have earned ACR accreditation,” said Keith Hartjen, director of radiology services at CCMH. “This accreditation demonstrates our commitment to quality patient-centered care and I thank Scott Brewer and Dee Taylor for all of their hard work and help in achieving this certification.”
ACR awards accreditation to facilities for the achievement of high practice standards after a peer-reviewed evaluation which is conducted by board certified physicians and medial physicists. They assess the qualifications of the personnel and the adequacy of facility equipment. The surveyors report their finds to the ACR’s committee on accreditation, which provides the practice with a comprehensive report. The ACR is a national organization serving more than 32,000 diagnostic and interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, and nuclear medicine and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.
For more information on CCMH’s imaging services, visit http://www.charlescolehospital.com/services_imaging.shtml.
Metcalfe to Run for Speaker
A Butler County Republican says he'll be running for speaker of the state House of Representatives when the chamber meets for the first time this year on Tuesday.Daryl Metcalfe is considered a long shot to defeat the Democratic nominee, Keith McCall of Carbon County, because the Democrats have a five-seat majority in the House.
Metcalfe emphasized fiscal restraint by state government in his announcement today. He says his candidacy will end what he describes as McCall's "fiscally irresponsible coronation process."
Metcalfe has been among the Legislature's most devoted pro-gun figures and has also taken a strong position against illegal immigration.
(Pictured, Metcalfe with RadioPA's Matt Paul)
National Fuel Projects Decrease
National Fuel is projecting a 17 percent decrease in prices for later this year.
In its annual filing to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, National Fuel is projecting a decrease in overall gas cost expense.
If approved as filed, in August the bill for a typical residential customer would decrease from $138 to $115 a month.
Nancy Taylor of National Fuel says the forecast for gas costs will be reviewed again in the coming months and may be adjusted further to reflect actual market prices during the winter.
In its annual filing to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, National Fuel is projecting a decrease in overall gas cost expense.
If approved as filed, in August the bill for a typical residential customer would decrease from $138 to $115 a month.
Nancy Taylor of National Fuel says the forecast for gas costs will be reviewed again in the coming months and may be adjusted further to reflect actual market prices during the winter.
Fumo Secretary Accused of Stealing
An East Pennsboro Twp. woman and executive secretary to indicted former state Sen. Vincent J. Fumo, D-Philadelphia, is accused of using her job to steal more than $60,000 from the state.
Susan Skotnicki, 52, who resigned her $103,169-a-year state Senate post Dec. 17, is to plead guilty to a single count of mail fraud on Jan. 9 in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia, a court spokesman said.
According to court records, Skotnicki is accused of submitting false expense vouchers to the Senate in Fumo's name over at least four years for meals at La Veranda, a restaurant at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia.
For the full story go to The Patriot-News.
Susan Skotnicki, 52, who resigned her $103,169-a-year state Senate post Dec. 17, is to plead guilty to a single count of mail fraud on Jan. 9 in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia, a court spokesman said.
According to court records, Skotnicki is accused of submitting false expense vouchers to the Senate in Fumo's name over at least four years for meals at La Veranda, a restaurant at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia.
For the full story go to The Patriot-News.
Kane Area Relay for Life Kickoff
On Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at 6 p.m. at the St. Callistus Hall, the Kane Area Relay will have their formal Kickoff for the 2009 Kane Area Relay for Life.
The public is invited to attend the festivities to learn more about Relay, the goals and opportunities. Food and beverages will be served up as well as plans for the 2009 event in July.
Who should attend? Marianne Rook, Chair of the Kane Area Relay answers the question, "Everyone….all team leaders and members, people considering forming a team, organizers, people living with cancer, caregivers, family, friends, interested community residents -- anyone who might like to be a part of the event which is a fight for a cure for cancer."
Teams have been forming and fundraising, but Tuesday is the official public KICKOFF. With an American Cancer Society set goal for the Kane Area Relay of $65K, fundraising officially began right after the close of the 2008 event.
For more information call Marianne Rook at 837-7115 or Co-Chair Shirley Morgan at 837-9696.
"We look forward to seeing everyone Tuesday night," encouraged Rook. "If you resolved to get involved in a worthy cause this year, we HOPE you will consider Relay. If you have been touched by cancer, we HOPE to see you on Tuesday. One thing you should know up front is that we set goals, we work hard, we play hard, we laugh, we cry, we are inspired, we support those engaged in personal fights, we are hopeful. Thoughout the year, we remember, we celebrate and we fight back against cancer with action and hope. We invite you to join us on this incredible journey."
The public is invited to attend the festivities to learn more about Relay, the goals and opportunities. Food and beverages will be served up as well as plans for the 2009 event in July.
Who should attend? Marianne Rook, Chair of the Kane Area Relay answers the question, "Everyone….all team leaders and members, people considering forming a team, organizers, people living with cancer, caregivers, family, friends, interested community residents -- anyone who might like to be a part of the event which is a fight for a cure for cancer."
Teams have been forming and fundraising, but Tuesday is the official public KICKOFF. With an American Cancer Society set goal for the Kane Area Relay of $65K, fundraising officially began right after the close of the 2008 event.
For more information call Marianne Rook at 837-7115 or Co-Chair Shirley Morgan at 837-9696.
"We look forward to seeing everyone Tuesday night," encouraged Rook. "If you resolved to get involved in a worthy cause this year, we HOPE you will consider Relay. If you have been touched by cancer, we HOPE to see you on Tuesday. One thing you should know up front is that we set goals, we work hard, we play hard, we laugh, we cry, we are inspired, we support those engaged in personal fights, we are hopeful. Thoughout the year, we remember, we celebrate and we fight back against cancer with action and hope. We invite you to join us on this incredible journey."
Zerbian Named Alumnus of Year
Tina Zerbian has been named the 2008 Leadership Cattaraugus Alumnus of the Year.The annual award is presented to an alumnus who best represents the mission and vision of the LC program. Zerbian, chief executive officer, Cattaraugus Community Action, was selected because she is a leader and helps to make Cattaraugus County a better place to live, according to LC administrator Jesse Gugino.
Zerbian is past president of the New York State Community Action Association. She was also named Woman of the Year by the Enchanted Mountain Business and Professional Women’s Club. She serves on numerous state and area boards.
“She brings an air of integrity to everything she touches,” said LC alumna Sharon Mathe.
Past recipients include Wendy Bourgeois, Cattaraugus County Department of Social Services, and Len Riker, formerly of Cytec Corp.
Leadership Cattaraugus was established in November 2003 as a joint effort of Jamestown Community College’s Cattaraugus County Campus, The ReHabilitation Center, Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce, and St. Bonaventure University. The founding partners include: Alcas Corporation, Cattaraugus Empire Zone Corp., Cooper Power Systems, Cytec Industries, Dresser-Rand, Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce, The Iroquois Group, Jamestown Community College, Olean Advanced Products/AVX, Olean General Hospital, The ReHabilitation Center, and St. Bonaventure University.
An inaugural class of 21 members completed the program in 2004, with a second class of 20 participants in 2005, 20 participants in 2006, and 18 in 2007 and 2008. All graduates participated in sessions on economic development, education, tourism, media, government, health and medical issues, human services and a full day of board member development.
For more information, visit the Leadership Cattaraugus website at www.leadershipcattaraugus.org or call 716-376-7572.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Museum Honors Weapons Plant
During World War II, Americans launched a variety of volunteer efforts.
Children participated in competitive scrap metal drives and helped their parents plant victory gardens while motorists planned errands to conserve the rationed gasoline. But some of the weapons fueling the Allies' military might came from a north-central Pennsylvania valley near the New York border, 3 miles north of a town called Eldred.
For the full story, go to Go San Angelo.com.
Children participated in competitive scrap metal drives and helped their parents plant victory gardens while motorists planned errands to conserve the rationed gasoline. But some of the weapons fueling the Allies' military might came from a north-central Pennsylvania valley near the New York border, 3 miles north of a town called Eldred.
For the full story, go to Go San Angelo.com.
PA House Members Going to Iraq
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Two members of the state House of Representatives will be in Iraq on active duty with the Pennsylvania National Guard next year.
Rep. Scott Perry, R-York, and newly elected freshman Nick Miccarelli, R-Delaware, will serve together in a helicopter combat brigade while their colleagues vote on legislation and their staffs deal with constituents' questions and problems.
For the full story, to to pennlive.com.
Rep. Scott Perry, R-York, and newly elected freshman Nick Miccarelli, R-Delaware, will serve together in a helicopter combat brigade while their colleagues vote on legislation and their staffs deal with constituents' questions and problems.
For the full story, to to pennlive.com.
Joshua Seitz Remembered
A private burial is expected to be held Tuesday in Genesee, Pa. at the family farm for Navy Seaman Apprentice Joshua Seitz, 19, who died Christmas day in Bahrain.
For the full story, go to the Wellsville Daily Reporter.
For the full story, go to the Wellsville Daily Reporter.
Thompson Heads to Washington
It is with the sense of community, willingness to lend a helping hand and the rural values of a lifetime living, learning, working and caring for his family in Centre and Clinton counties that Glenn Thompson will assume the role as U.S. Representative. Having grown up in these areas, Thompson attests to the rural values influencing his life.
For the full story, go to The (Lock Haven) Express.
For the full story, go to The (Lock Haven) Express.
Brookville Woman Dies in Crash
A Brookville woman died Wednesday after a vehicle spun into the path of a pickup truck in Crawford County.
Authorities say 35-year-old Gena Renae Brumbaugh was pronounced dead at Meadville Medical Center, where she was taken after the 4:30 p.m. crash.
She was a passenger in the vehicle driven by 33-year-old Eric Weaver of DuBois that went out of control on a snow-covered road and spun into the path of the truck driven by 29-year-old Matthew Haught of Meadville.
Haught was treated for a minor injury at the scene. Weaver was taken to Meadville Medical Center, where is condition is not being released.
Authorities say 35-year-old Gena Renae Brumbaugh was pronounced dead at Meadville Medical Center, where she was taken after the 4:30 p.m. crash.
She was a passenger in the vehicle driven by 33-year-old Eric Weaver of DuBois that went out of control on a snow-covered road and spun into the path of the truck driven by 29-year-old Matthew Haught of Meadville.
Haught was treated for a minor injury at the scene. Weaver was taken to Meadville Medical Center, where is condition is not being released.
Winners and Losers of 2008
PolitickerPA.com looks back at the biggest winners and losers of 2008.
Joe Scarnati: Senate Republicans, along with Corbett, are the lone bright spots for the Pennsylvania GOP. Scarnati led an effort that, depending on a pending special election in the 29th District, could see the GOP increase its already vast majority in the Senate despite a horrible year for Republicans across the country. His ascension to lieutenant governor, while tragic in its circumstances, also launched talk of a possible gubernatorial bid in 2010.
For the rest of the story, go to PolitickerPA.com.
Joe Scarnati: Senate Republicans, along with Corbett, are the lone bright spots for the Pennsylvania GOP. Scarnati led an effort that, depending on a pending special election in the 29th District, could see the GOP increase its already vast majority in the Senate despite a horrible year for Republicans across the country. His ascension to lieutenant governor, while tragic in its circumstances, also launched talk of a possible gubernatorial bid in 2010.
For the rest of the story, go to PolitickerPA.com.
Rigas Family Asking for
Commutation of Sentence
Thanks to Solomon's Words for passing this on:
Due to the considerable number of persons, who have contacted the Rigas family, urging an effort to request a commutation of John Rigas's sentence, the family has proceeded to have the necessary papers filed on Monday. Anyone who would like to write a letter to President Bush to recommend John's commutation, may send them as below.
The time remaining for President Bush to act is extremely limited, so time is of essence in this effort. A few minutes of your time and your prayers may have a profound effect on the life of this man who tried to do so much for the people of Potter County and the surrounding area.
People wanting to support the Commutation request of John Rigas should send their letters to the following address:
Lizette Benedi
Bancroft Associate PLLC
1919 M Street, NW
Suite 470
Washington, DC 20036
However, the letters should be addressed to the President as follows:
The Honorable George W. Bush
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036
The Bancroft Associate group will assemble the letters and send them as a group. Thank you.
Due to the considerable number of persons, who have contacted the Rigas family, urging an effort to request a commutation of John Rigas's sentence, the family has proceeded to have the necessary papers filed on Monday. Anyone who would like to write a letter to President Bush to recommend John's commutation, may send them as below.The time remaining for President Bush to act is extremely limited, so time is of essence in this effort. A few minutes of your time and your prayers may have a profound effect on the life of this man who tried to do so much for the people of Potter County and the surrounding area.
People wanting to support the Commutation request of John Rigas should send their letters to the following address:
Lizette Benedi
Bancroft Associate PLLC
1919 M Street, NW
Suite 470
Washington, DC 20036
However, the letters should be addressed to the President as follows:
The Honorable George W. Bush
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036
The Bancroft Associate group will assemble the letters and send them as a group. Thank you.
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