Anne's Arts & Activities Blog

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! )

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; s...

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 i...

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.

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 Pitt...

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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 ...

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 ch...

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 sai...

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 sig...

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.

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 Sc...

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 .

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 .

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 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.

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

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 ...

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.

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.

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."

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.

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

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 ...

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 di...

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 )

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 overt...

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,...

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 ...

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.

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 tha...

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...

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 pla...

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 tim...

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.

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.

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.

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,” t...

WESB's Week in Review for December 28, 2008 to January 3, 2009

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.

A Tennessee woman found a bullet in her baby's diaper believed to be from New Year's celebrations: Embedded video from CNN Video

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.

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 .

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.

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

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 .

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 .

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.

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 .

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 .

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 .

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 .

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 .

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.

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

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 .

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 .

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 me...

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 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.

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 .

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...

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, ...

Happy Birthday to the Lieutenant Governor!

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 .

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 .