A former guard at the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh who slashed a $1.2 million painting because he didn't like it has been sentenced to house arrest for up to 23 months and ordered to pay $245,000. Twenty-eight-year-old Timur Serebrykov must also perform 500 hours of community service and will be on probation for four years. The painting – "Night Sky 2" by Latvian artist Vija Celmins – is now worth $240,000 less because of the damage.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Guard Slashed $1M Painting --
Because He Didn't Like It
A former guard at the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh who slashed a $1.2 million painting because he didn't like it has been sentenced to house arrest for up to 23 months and ordered to pay $245,000. Twenty-eight-year-old Timur Serebrykov must also perform 500 hours of community service and will be on probation for four years. The painting – "Night Sky 2" by Latvian artist Vija Celmins – is now worth $240,000 less because of the damage.
Bills Could Change 'Legal Ads'
Bills pending in the state Legislature could change the way municipalities, school districts and agencies required to give public notice of meetings give that public notice.
Newspaper advocates say online posting would hinder the public's right to know, eliminate independent verification that public notice was given and would be expensive.
Some government officials wonder if the price of print advertising outweighs the benefit, especially as readers turn to the Internet for most of their information. The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania also supports electronic advertising.
For more on this story, go to phillyburbs.com
Newspaper advocates say online posting would hinder the public's right to know, eliminate independent verification that public notice was given and would be expensive.
Some government officials wonder if the price of print advertising outweighs the benefit, especially as readers turn to the Internet for most of their information. The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania also supports electronic advertising.
For more on this story, go to phillyburbs.com
Some ANF Facilities Opening
- Some recreation facilities on the Allegheny National Forest (NF) are opening this weekend, thus they will be open for the opening day, 4/18, of trout season according to Forest Supervisor Leanne Marten. Water may not be turned on at many areas.
Recreation Areas scheduled to be open for the beginning of fishing season are:
· Primitive Campgrounds with vault restrooms: Beaver Meadows, Hearts Content, Minister Creek and Tracy Ridge;
· Improved Campgrounds with vault toilets and electric hookups; bathhouses will not be opened due to cold weather: Loleta, Red Bridge, and Twin Lakes;
· Boat-to Campgrounds: Allegheny Reservoir-Handsome Lake, Hooks Brook, Hopewell, Morrison, and Pine Grove; Tionesta Reservoir-Tionesta Lake;
· Boat Launches: Allegheny Reservoir-Elijah Run, Kiasutha, Roper Hollow, Webbs Ferry, and Willow Bay; Other Boat Launches: Beaver Meadows and Irwin Run on the Clarion River;
· Day-Use Areas: Beaver Meadows, Hearts Content, Jakes Rocks Overlook, Loleta, Rimrock Overlook, Tidioute Overlook, and Willow Bay.
A day-use fee of $5.00 per vehicle will be charged at Elijah Run, Kiasutha, Roper Hollow, Webbs Ferry, and Willow Bay Boat Launches into the Allegheny Reservoir. All docks will be installed by Memorial Day. To check the status of the docks, please contact the Bradford Ranger District at 814/362-4613.
Fees for campgrounds range from $10 to $26 per night. Each campground has sites that are first-come, first-served, and many have sites that can be reserved. Group camping areas range from $45 to $50 per night and require reservations (except at Hearts Content). Please check our website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/allegheny/ or call 814/362-4613 for various fees.
All reservations are handled through the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS) at 1-877-444-6777 or through their website at http://www.recreation.gov. Reservations may be made 240 days in advance and must be made at least 4 days before the scheduled arrival date. Reservations may be made all year, but sites can be reserved only from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The Allegheny River is home to populations of clubshell and northern riffleshell mussels. Both of these mussels are sensitive to disturbance, and are federally listed and state listed endangered species. Please do your part to protect these species by not disturbing any mussels you may encounter.
Inspect your boat for “hitchhiker” zebra mussels prior to launching into any waterway. If you are moving your watercraft from one waterway to another, always drain the water, remove any plants caught on equipment, including the trailer, and dispose of unwanted bait on land. Wash your watercraft and equipment with high-pressure hot water (a car wash works well), or rinse your watercraft and equipment with hot water (hotter than 110 degrees).
Purchase or find your firewood near your campsite. Firewood is prohibited on the Allegheny NF from outside of the four counties of Elk, Forest, McKean, and Warren. Firewood can contain insects, such as the emerald ash borer, that are dangerous to trees. All firewood should be burned before you leave your campsite to return home. Please make certain the fire ashes are cold to the touch to avoid an escaped campfire.
Recreation Areas scheduled to be open for the beginning of fishing season are:
· Primitive Campgrounds with vault restrooms: Beaver Meadows, Hearts Content, Minister Creek and Tracy Ridge;
· Improved Campgrounds with vault toilets and electric hookups; bathhouses will not be opened due to cold weather: Loleta, Red Bridge, and Twin Lakes;
· Boat-to Campgrounds: Allegheny Reservoir-Handsome Lake, Hooks Brook, Hopewell, Morrison, and Pine Grove; Tionesta Reservoir-Tionesta Lake;
· Boat Launches: Allegheny Reservoir-Elijah Run, Kiasutha, Roper Hollow, Webbs Ferry, and Willow Bay; Other Boat Launches: Beaver Meadows and Irwin Run on the Clarion River;
· Day-Use Areas: Beaver Meadows, Hearts Content, Jakes Rocks Overlook, Loleta, Rimrock Overlook, Tidioute Overlook, and Willow Bay.
A day-use fee of $5.00 per vehicle will be charged at Elijah Run, Kiasutha, Roper Hollow, Webbs Ferry, and Willow Bay Boat Launches into the Allegheny Reservoir. All docks will be installed by Memorial Day. To check the status of the docks, please contact the Bradford Ranger District at 814/362-4613.
Fees for campgrounds range from $10 to $26 per night. Each campground has sites that are first-come, first-served, and many have sites that can be reserved. Group camping areas range from $45 to $50 per night and require reservations (except at Hearts Content). Please check our website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/allegheny/ or call 814/362-4613 for various fees.
All reservations are handled through the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS) at 1-877-444-6777 or through their website at http://www.recreation.gov. Reservations may be made 240 days in advance and must be made at least 4 days before the scheduled arrival date. Reservations may be made all year, but sites can be reserved only from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The Allegheny River is home to populations of clubshell and northern riffleshell mussels. Both of these mussels are sensitive to disturbance, and are federally listed and state listed endangered species. Please do your part to protect these species by not disturbing any mussels you may encounter.
Inspect your boat for “hitchhiker” zebra mussels prior to launching into any waterway. If you are moving your watercraft from one waterway to another, always drain the water, remove any plants caught on equipment, including the trailer, and dispose of unwanted bait on land. Wash your watercraft and equipment with high-pressure hot water (a car wash works well), or rinse your watercraft and equipment with hot water (hotter than 110 degrees).
Purchase or find your firewood near your campsite. Firewood is prohibited on the Allegheny NF from outside of the four counties of Elk, Forest, McKean, and Warren. Firewood can contain insects, such as the emerald ash borer, that are dangerous to trees. All firewood should be burned before you leave your campsite to return home. Please make certain the fire ashes are cold to the touch to avoid an escaped campfire.
Dixon Named Coach of the Year
University of Pittsburgh Coach Jamie Dixon has been named the Naismith men's coach of the year after leading the Panthers to a school-record 31 wins and the NCAA tournament regional finals.
The sixth-year head coach also guided Pitt to its first-ever top seed in the tournament and the school's first No. 1 ranking in the AP Top 25.
The Panthers fell short of the Final Four after a loss to Villanova on a last-second layup by Scottie Reynolds.
The sixth-year head coach also guided Pitt to its first-ever top seed in the tournament and the school's first No. 1 ranking in the AP Top 25.
The Panthers fell short of the Final Four after a loss to Villanova on a last-second layup by Scottie Reynolds.
Altoona Subway Shooter ID'd
Police have identified the man charged in the shooting deaths of two people following a robbery at a Subway restaurant in Altoona on Monday.
28-year-old Nicholas Horner faces two counts of criminal homicide. He's in Blair County Jail without bail.
Police say Horner shot two workers at Subway, killing one. He ran from the restaurant, then shot another man who was picking up his mail.
The Subway employee killed was Scott Garlick, a senior at Hollidaysburg Area High School.
For the full story, go to the Altoona Mirror.
28-year-old Nicholas Horner faces two counts of criminal homicide. He's in Blair County Jail without bail.
Police say Horner shot two workers at Subway, killing one. He ran from the restaurant, then shot another man who was picking up his mail.
The Subway employee killed was Scott Garlick, a senior at Hollidaysburg Area High School.
For the full story, go to the Altoona Mirror.
KFC Suing Maker of Flaming Cups
KFC is suing one of its suppliers, saying cups used to hold popcorn chicken have caught fire while being reheated in microwave ovens.
The complaint says that Paris Packaging “should have reasonably foreseen that KFC customers would reheat their leftover popcorn chicken.”
For the full story, go to the Louisville Courier-Journal.
The complaint says that Paris Packaging “should have reasonably foreseen that KFC customers would reheat their leftover popcorn chicken.”
For the full story, go to the Louisville Courier-Journal.
Four Hurt in Route 770 Crash
Four people suffered minor injuries in an accident at 6:30 this morning on Route 770 near Pine Acres Country Club.
A vehicle driven by 31-year-old Patricia Whitsell of Oil Valley Road in Duke Center went out of control while rounding a curve due to snow and ice on the road, according to state police
The vehicle spun around, then hit a large rock and rolled over.
Whitsell and her passengers, a 16-year-old girl, a 14-year-old boy and a 12-year-old boy were taken to Bradford Regional Medical Center for treatment.
The vehicle was towed by Clayt's.
A vehicle driven by 31-year-old Patricia Whitsell of Oil Valley Road in Duke Center went out of control while rounding a curve due to snow and ice on the road, according to state police
The vehicle spun around, then hit a large rock and rolled over.
Whitsell and her passengers, a 16-year-old girl, a 14-year-old boy and a 12-year-old boy were taken to Bradford Regional Medical Center for treatment.
The vehicle was towed by Clayt's.
Teens Caught with Painkiller
Three Potter County girls have been charged for having a prescription drug at Northern Potter High School.
A 16-year-old from Ulysses and 17-year-olds from Genesee Township and Harrison Township allegedly had Tramadol that was not prescribed to any of them.
They've been charged by police with disorderly conduct, which is in addition to any discipline from the school.
Police say Tramadol is a non-narcotic prescription painkiller which is the reason for the disorderly conduct charge instead of a drug charge.
A 16-year-old from Ulysses and 17-year-olds from Genesee Township and Harrison Township allegedly had Tramadol that was not prescribed to any of them.
They've been charged by police with disorderly conduct, which is in addition to any discipline from the school.
Police say Tramadol is a non-narcotic prescription painkiller which is the reason for the disorderly conduct charge instead of a drug charge.
Shooter Shared Racist Views on 'Net
The man charged with killing three police officers often shared racist and anti-government views on Web sites
After the Pittsburgh Steelers won the Super Bowl, Richard Poplawski dismissed football as nothing but “negroball.” Then, instead of celebrating the victory, he went out and did reconnaissance on how the police tried to control the crowds and posted his findings.
For the full story, go to the New York Times.
After the Pittsburgh Steelers won the Super Bowl, Richard Poplawski dismissed football as nothing but “negroball.” Then, instead of celebrating the victory, he went out and did reconnaissance on how the police tried to control the crowds and posted his findings.
For the full story, go to the New York Times.
Ex-Prosecutor Going to Prison
A Bucks County judge has revoked a sentence of house arrest for a former prosecutor and is sending him to prison for 6 to 23 months for corruption of minors.Anthony Cappuccio, the former chief deputy district attorney for Bucks County, had been sentenced to 23 months of house arrest after pleading guilty to giving alcohol to three teenage boys, smoking marijuana with them and having a consensual sexual relationship with one of them.
When revoking the house arrest, the judge said he was dismayed to learn that Cappuccio was walking freely through Doylestown last week during a break in his divorce proceedings in another court.
Corbett Aims to Shut Down Fumo's Nonprofit; Seek Repayment
The state attorney general has filed legal papers seeking to shut down a nonprofit organization founded by a former state senator convicted of using its money for his personal benefit.
Attorney General Tom Corbett says the civil suit seeks to provide a complete accounting of the assets of Citizens' Alliance for Better Neighborhoods, founded by former Sen. Vincent Fumo. The suit also seeks the repayment of assets found to have been wasted, mismanaged or misappropriated.
For more information, go to the attorney general's Web site.
Attorney General Tom Corbett says the civil suit seeks to provide a complete accounting of the assets of Citizens' Alliance for Better Neighborhoods, founded by former Sen. Vincent Fumo. The suit also seeks the repayment of assets found to have been wasted, mismanaged or misappropriated.
For more information, go to the attorney general's Web site.
Town Wide Garage Sale in May
Plans are being made for the 7th annual Bradford Area Town Wide Garage Sale, which will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2009 beginning at 9 a.m.
Registration forms are now available at the Main Street Mercantile, Main Street, Bradford, for individuals and groups who wish to be a part of the event.
In the past, more that 50 locations have participated.
The deadline to register is Friday, May 8. The event is organized by the Bradford Main Street Program and the Downtown Bradford Business District Authority.
Registration forms are now available at the Main Street Mercantile, Main Street, Bradford, for individuals and groups who wish to be a part of the event.
In the past, more that 50 locations have participated.
The deadline to register is Friday, May 8. The event is organized by the Bradford Main Street Program and the Downtown Bradford Business District Authority.
Voong Sent Letter to TV Station
Binghamton gunman Jiverly Voong sent a letter to a Binghamton TV station Friday, the day he killed 13 people and himself. The station received the letter Monday.
For more, go to News 10.
For more, go to News 10.
Autistic Teen Center of Controversy
Eight months later, outrage still is evident in this Cattaraugus County community, only now it belongs to the parents of the student’s classmates. They say their children are put at risk because school administrators refuse to protect them from the autistic teenager.
For the full story, go to the Buffalo News.
For the full story, go to the Buffalo News.
Some National City Branches Sold
First Niagara Financial Group of Lockport, New York, is buying 57 branches of National City Bank in Erie, Pittsburgh and Warren.
PNC Financial Services Group was ordered by the federal government to sell 61 branches before its purchase of the financially troubled bank could be approved late last year.
Marquette Savings Bank will buy three National City branches in Crawford County. No information has been released yet on who will buy the remaining branch.
The Bradford branch is not being sold.
PNC Financial Services Group was ordered by the federal government to sell 61 branches before its purchase of the financially troubled bank could be approved late last year.
Marquette Savings Bank will buy three National City branches in Crawford County. No information has been released yet on who will buy the remaining branch.
The Bradford branch is not being sold.
Doctor's Children Die in Car Crash
A 4-year-old boy and his 6-year-old sister are the latest victims in a series of fatal vehicle accidents in Chautauqua County.
Monday evening, a car driven by Dr. Steven Ambrusko of Buffalo was on the New York State Thruway in Portland when it went off the road, down an embankment and flipped over.
Peter and Katherine Ambrusko were pronounced dead at the scene. Their father is in the Intensive Care Unit at ECMC.
Police say the children were riding in the back seat and were in properly restrained booster seats. The cause of the accident is under investigation, but police say weather does not appear to be a factor.
Ambrusko is the director of the Hemoglobinopathy Center at Women and Childrens Hospital in Buffalo.
Man Accused of Assaulting Baby
A Genesee man is jailed after being charged with beating a six month-old infant over a six month period.
State Police say 21-year-old Robert Fiske is facing numerous charges, including aggravated assault, reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of a child.
Police say the infant was sent to Pittsburgh’s Children’s Hospital with a fractured skull and multiple fractures of his arm. Fiske is in Potter County jail on $100,000 bail
State Police say 21-year-old Robert Fiske is facing numerous charges, including aggravated assault, reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of a child.
Police say the infant was sent to Pittsburgh’s Children’s Hospital with a fractured skull and multiple fractures of his arm. Fiske is in Potter County jail on $100,000 bail
Teacher Surrenders Certificate
A substitute teacher for the Ridgway Area School District has surrendered her teaching certificate because of inappropriate contact with a student.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education Web site, Amy M. Renaud surrendered her certificate on February 1 in lieu of discipline.
The Web site says the allegations are that Renaud "engaged in inappropriate physical contact and communication with a student that included kissing the student on two occasions and sending inappropriate text messages.”
She can re-apply to the Professional Standards Commission for a teaching certificate after a five-year waiting period.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education Web site, Amy M. Renaud surrendered her certificate on February 1 in lieu of discipline.
The Web site says the allegations are that Renaud "engaged in inappropriate physical contact and communication with a student that included kissing the student on two occasions and sending inappropriate text messages.”
She can re-apply to the Professional Standards Commission for a teaching certificate after a five-year waiting period.
Elk County Inmate Missing
An inmate at the Elk County Prison has been missing since Friday.Douglas Eugene Green had been issued a furlough to attend a funeral in Clarion, and was supposed to return to Elk County by 3 o'clock Friday afternoon. He didn't show up.
Green had been sentenced to 180 days in jail for domestic relations contempt.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Foster Township Bidding
Process Questioned Again
By ANNE HOLLIDAY
WESB/WBRR News Director
The issue of Foster Township employees – including supervisor Cary Kaber – doing work on a project that wasn't put out for bid was a topic of discussion again at Monday's supervisors' meeting.
Contractor Bob Baker said it violates the Second Class Township Code because a township supervisor is using his position for monetary gain.
"I don't want Cary Kaber lining his pockets at the taxpayers' expense because he wants to circumvent the process and not be fair and bid it like he's supposed to," Baker said.
Supervisor Bob Slike said, from now on, they'll bid out even the smallest of projects even if it would cost less to have Kaber do them.
Baker said that's not the point.
"Now you're kind of turning this into me wanting to cost the taxpayers more money and it ain't about that," Baker said. "I want to keep the system honest. That's what I want to do. And if that requires that you do your job, Mr. Slike, Mr. Kaber and Mr. (Chris) Wolcott, and make sure we get bids if we require bids, that's my goal."
Supervisors and Baker agreed to have their lawyers look into the situation.
Supervisors said part of their rental agreement with the county for District Judge Rich Luther's offices includes the renovation work being done by township employees.
Also during Monday's two-hour meeting, supervisors gave their OK to designating about 14 acres on Bolivar Drive as a Keystone Opportunity Zone for American Refining Group's proposed "green coal" plant.
The Bradford Area School Board and McKean County Commissioners gave their stamps of approval during their last meetings. The state Department of Community and Economic Development still has to approve the project, but ARG has already gotten a $1 million grant from the state.
During last month's school board meeting, ARG CEO Harvey Golubock said they expect to start construction next year and will employee 20 to 30 people full time.
Monday night, township resident Jim Connolly mentioned the recent seminar by Jack Schultz of the Boomtown Institute in which he mentioned the "incredible" economic affect 25 good-paying jobs can have on an area.
Wolcott said the township currently receives only $341.65 a year in property taxes from the parcels. He said for the amount of taxes they'd be losing, and what they'll gain, it's worth it. He added that the property would only be off the tax rolls for 10 years, then would go back on at the full amount.
"It's a wonderful opportunity for us," Slike said.
They also agreed to extend the KOZ designation for the Lafferty Hollow Industrial Park.
Betty Cochran of the OECD said PennDOT has been reviewing bids for the access road and she hopes they'll be breaking ground soon.
"We'vebeen waiting a long time," Cochran said.
Also Monday, supervisors agreed to allow Police Lieutenant Tom Munn to submit a request to the US Department of Justice for a new full-time police officer.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act includes money for municipalities to hire police officers who would be paid with federal stimulus money.
On the subject of police officers, township residents Dave Gomes and Joe Piganelli brought up former officer Todd McClain.
Wolcott reiterated what he said in January, as part of the $5,000 settlement with McClain, all the parties have agreed to not discuss the matter any further.
In May, a jury found McClain not guilty of taking money from the township police station.
Gomes also asked about a statement Kaber made concerning the township not having job descriptions for its employees.
"You can't discipline (employees) if you have no job description," Gomes said.
Wolcott said they have been working on job descriptions, but have gotten bogged down.
WESB/WBRR News Director
The issue of Foster Township employees – including supervisor Cary Kaber – doing work on a project that wasn't put out for bid was a topic of discussion again at Monday's supervisors' meeting.
Contractor Bob Baker said it violates the Second Class Township Code because a township supervisor is using his position for monetary gain.
"I don't want Cary Kaber lining his pockets at the taxpayers' expense because he wants to circumvent the process and not be fair and bid it like he's supposed to," Baker said.
Supervisor Bob Slike said, from now on, they'll bid out even the smallest of projects even if it would cost less to have Kaber do them.
Baker said that's not the point.
"Now you're kind of turning this into me wanting to cost the taxpayers more money and it ain't about that," Baker said. "I want to keep the system honest. That's what I want to do. And if that requires that you do your job, Mr. Slike, Mr. Kaber and Mr. (Chris) Wolcott, and make sure we get bids if we require bids, that's my goal."
Supervisors and Baker agreed to have their lawyers look into the situation.
Supervisors said part of their rental agreement with the county for District Judge Rich Luther's offices includes the renovation work being done by township employees.
Also during Monday's two-hour meeting, supervisors gave their OK to designating about 14 acres on Bolivar Drive as a Keystone Opportunity Zone for American Refining Group's proposed "green coal" plant.
The Bradford Area School Board and McKean County Commissioners gave their stamps of approval during their last meetings. The state Department of Community and Economic Development still has to approve the project, but ARG has already gotten a $1 million grant from the state.
During last month's school board meeting, ARG CEO Harvey Golubock said they expect to start construction next year and will employee 20 to 30 people full time.
Monday night, township resident Jim Connolly mentioned the recent seminar by Jack Schultz of the Boomtown Institute in which he mentioned the "incredible" economic affect 25 good-paying jobs can have on an area.
Wolcott said the township currently receives only $341.65 a year in property taxes from the parcels. He said for the amount of taxes they'd be losing, and what they'll gain, it's worth it. He added that the property would only be off the tax rolls for 10 years, then would go back on at the full amount.
"It's a wonderful opportunity for us," Slike said.
They also agreed to extend the KOZ designation for the Lafferty Hollow Industrial Park.
Betty Cochran of the OECD said PennDOT has been reviewing bids for the access road and she hopes they'll be breaking ground soon.
"We'vebeen waiting a long time," Cochran said.
Also Monday, supervisors agreed to allow Police Lieutenant Tom Munn to submit a request to the US Department of Justice for a new full-time police officer.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act includes money for municipalities to hire police officers who would be paid with federal stimulus money.
On the subject of police officers, township residents Dave Gomes and Joe Piganelli brought up former officer Todd McClain.
Wolcott reiterated what he said in January, as part of the $5,000 settlement with McClain, all the parties have agreed to not discuss the matter any further.
In May, a jury found McClain not guilty of taking money from the township police station.
Gomes also asked about a statement Kaber made concerning the township not having job descriptions for its employees.
"You can't discipline (employees) if you have no job description," Gomes said.
Wolcott said they have been working on job descriptions, but have gotten bogged down.
Kopp Appeal Rejected
A New York appeals court has upheld the life sentence of a militant abortion opponent who admitted killing a Buffalo-area doctor.
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said today all of the issues raised by James Kopp on appeal were without merit.
Kopp was sentenced in June 2007 for the sniper-style shooting of Dr. Barnett Slepian in the kitchen of his Amherst home.
Kopp's lawyers claimed a trial judge erred by preventing him from asserting that he was saving children's lives by preventing abortions. The appeals court disagreed
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said today all of the issues raised by James Kopp on appeal were without merit.
Kopp was sentenced in June 2007 for the sniper-style shooting of Dr. Barnett Slepian in the kitchen of his Amherst home.
Kopp's lawyers claimed a trial judge erred by preventing him from asserting that he was saving children's lives by preventing abortions. The appeals court disagreed
Lecture About Suez Canal at UPB
Dr. Marvin Thomas, professor of history at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, will speak on the 150th anniversary of the opening of the Suez Canal, one of the world’s major waterways, on April 14. The lecture, “Nothing so Successful as Success: The Suez Canal,” begins at 8 p.m. in Rice Auditorium in Fisher Hall. A part of the university’s Spectrum Series, this is the 33rd year Thomas has presented his popular historical talk.
Located in northeastern Egypt, the 101-mile long artificial waterway joins the Mediterranean and Red seas. Ships from America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania heavily use the mostly single-laned Suez Canal to trade goods, bypassing a voyage around Africa.
In the 13th century B.C., an Egyptian pharaoh ordered the site to be dug between the Nile River delta and the Red Sea. After years of neglect, the ancient Suez Canal ceased to function in the 8th century A.D.
French-owned Suez Canal Co. excavated the site on April 25, 1859, a project that totaled approximately $1 million. More than a decade later, on Nov. 17, 1869, ships began using the canal.
Last year’s talk on The Sepoy Mutiny that erupted in 1857 in India prompted Thomas to choose this year’s topic.
“The British government had been indifferent to the building of the canal,” Thomas said, “however, as a result of the sepoy crisis, it was evident that a shorter route to India was absolutely essential.”
Thomas has been teaching at Pitt-Bradford since 1969. In 1997, he was chosen as the recipient of the Pitt-Bradford Alumni Association’s Teaching Excellence Award. He teaches survey courses across the entire spectrum of European history from the ancient, medieval and renaissance periods through modern history.
He holds a doctorate in history from Penn State University and earned a master of arts degree in history from Columbia University and a bachelor of arts degree in history from Long Island University.
Rapp Re-Schools Ed. Secretary
HARRISBURG-Rep. Kathy Rapp (R-Warren/Forest/McKean) again raised several concerns regarding the governor's proposed implementation of a new $210 million system of high school Graduation Competency Assessments (GCAs) during a joint House Republican Education and Policy committee hearing last Wednesday featuring testimony presented by State Education Secretary Gerald Zahorchak.
Broadcast to a statewide audience on the Pennsylvania Cable Network, Rapp opened her blunt, straightforward questioning of Zahorchak by once again stressing that:
"I agree with you that Pennsylvania's public school system is failing to teach far too many students how to read. Rather than providing the solution, the graduation competency test is a method of punishing our children for an educational system that has repeatedly failed them."
If adopted, all Pennsylvania high school students would be required to pass a GCA test demonstrating their proficiency in English, math, science and social studies in order to receive their diplomas. At a time when Pennsylvania is already facing a $3 billion deficit, the governor's proposed 2009-10 budget proposal includes more than $23 million to continue the development of these unnecessary tests and certain support services.
Additional studies show that 96 percent of the implementation costs will be borne by local school districts. Zahorchak also revealed during Wednesday's hearing that this new system would ultimately cost Pennsylvania approximately $210 million over the next seven years before the first test is even given.
Rapp reinforced her initial comments by citing an independent Feb. 25, 2009 Penn State College of Education survey which revealed that only 18 of Pennsylvania's 501 public school districts, or less than 3 percent of total statewide enrollment, appropriately measure whether their students can read and do math at the l1th grade level.
"Mr. Secretary, what this research clearly shows is that we should be focusing on making sure that 'Johnny Knows How to Read' at a much earlier age," said Rapp. "No matter how much taxpayer money is thrown at the educational system, too many students are continuing to fall through the cracks."
Rapp and other participating lawmakers also noted that the Rendell administration's push for GCAs contradicts current law. Act 61 of 2008 prohibits the establishment of high school graduation requirements during the 2008-09 fiscal year.
"Adapting and modifying student performance so they can pass yet another unnecessary assessment exam before they can graduate, should never ever replace fundamental reading instruction and remediation during the elementary years where there is a much greater chance to make a meaningful difference," said Rapp. "Mr. Secretary, again why are we not spending more time making sure our students know how to read at an earlier age, rather than punishing them at the end of their academic careers for an educational system that continues to fail them?"
Despite this legislative moratorium, the governor is pushing ahead with GCAs and his administration issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) last August seeking a company to begin development of the GCA exam. Zahorchak also confirmed that a contract could soon be awarded. Similar legislation has been introduced this session in both the House and Senate to extend the moratorium as well as to prohibit any funds from being used for this purpose.
In case you didn't see the related story, click HERE.
Broadcast to a statewide audience on the Pennsylvania Cable Network, Rapp opened her blunt, straightforward questioning of Zahorchak by once again stressing that:
"I agree with you that Pennsylvania's public school system is failing to teach far too many students how to read. Rather than providing the solution, the graduation competency test is a method of punishing our children for an educational system that has repeatedly failed them."
If adopted, all Pennsylvania high school students would be required to pass a GCA test demonstrating their proficiency in English, math, science and social studies in order to receive their diplomas. At a time when Pennsylvania is already facing a $3 billion deficit, the governor's proposed 2009-10 budget proposal includes more than $23 million to continue the development of these unnecessary tests and certain support services.
Additional studies show that 96 percent of the implementation costs will be borne by local school districts. Zahorchak also revealed during Wednesday's hearing that this new system would ultimately cost Pennsylvania approximately $210 million over the next seven years before the first test is even given.
Rapp reinforced her initial comments by citing an independent Feb. 25, 2009 Penn State College of Education survey which revealed that only 18 of Pennsylvania's 501 public school districts, or less than 3 percent of total statewide enrollment, appropriately measure whether their students can read and do math at the l1th grade level.
"Mr. Secretary, what this research clearly shows is that we should be focusing on making sure that 'Johnny Knows How to Read' at a much earlier age," said Rapp. "No matter how much taxpayer money is thrown at the educational system, too many students are continuing to fall through the cracks."
Rapp and other participating lawmakers also noted that the Rendell administration's push for GCAs contradicts current law. Act 61 of 2008 prohibits the establishment of high school graduation requirements during the 2008-09 fiscal year.
"Adapting and modifying student performance so they can pass yet another unnecessary assessment exam before they can graduate, should never ever replace fundamental reading instruction and remediation during the elementary years where there is a much greater chance to make a meaningful difference," said Rapp. "Mr. Secretary, again why are we not spending more time making sure our students know how to read at an earlier age, rather than punishing them at the end of their academic careers for an educational system that continues to fail them?"
Despite this legislative moratorium, the governor is pushing ahead with GCAs and his administration issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) last August seeking a company to begin development of the GCA exam. Zahorchak also confirmed that a contract could soon be awarded. Similar legislation has been introduced this session in both the House and Senate to extend the moratorium as well as to prohibit any funds from being used for this purpose.
In case you didn't see the related story, click HERE.
Teacher Pleads Guilty to Sodomy
A Salamanca teacher who had sex with two teenagers and showed indecent material on a computer to two other minors has pleaded guilty to sodomy and disseminating indecent material to minors.
43-year-old Michael DuPont was a seventh grade teacher in Salamanca when the incidents happened. As a condition of the plea, he is required to surrender his teaching license to the New York State Education Department.
He had sex with the teenagers in February and May of 2002. He showed the minors the material on the computers in January of 2007.
DuPont will be sentenced on June 15.
43-year-old Michael DuPont was a seventh grade teacher in Salamanca when the incidents happened. As a condition of the plea, he is required to surrender his teaching license to the New York State Education Department.
He had sex with the teenagers in February and May of 2002. He showed the minors the material on the computers in January of 2007.
DuPont will be sentenced on June 15.
A Group of GEMS
Kristin Asinger, a visiting professor of sports medicine at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, shows girls a model of a human eye at the GEMS (Girls in Engineering, Math and Science) Squad workshop sponsored by the Pitt-Bradford Saturday. About 40 middle school girls from Floyd C. Fretz, St. Bernard, Ridgway, Smethport, St. Marys and Cameron County middle schools attended a day of hands-on sessions conducted by Pitt-Bradford faculty and the Science in Motion staff. In addition to learning about the human body, the girls could take workshops in nursing, math and more.(Photo courtesy of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford)
PA, NY Flags at Half Staff
Governor Ed Rendell today ordered all Pennsylvania flags at commonwealth facilities throughout the state to be flown at half staff through and including Saturday, April 11, to honor three Pittsburgh city police officers who were killed in the line of duty on Saturday, April 4.
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Governor David Paterson has directed that flags on State government buildings across New York be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, April 8, 2009, in honor of the victims of the tragedy at Binghamton’s American Civic Association on Friday, April 3, 2009.
Governor Paterson said:
“On behalf of all New Yorkers, I wish to extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to the families, loved ones and friends of the victims of this terrible tragedy. While we may never understand this senseless act of violence, our arms and our hearts must be opened to comfort those whose lives were forever changed.
“In the months that follow, our responsibility as citizens is to not only console those who are suffering, but to devote ourselves to the greater effort of stemming senseless violence and hatred that we witness far too often.
“Only by joining together and working as one community will we find the solutions necessary to prevent tragedies such as this from recurring, and ensure a safer future for our children. They deserve our most diligent efforts to make that safer future a reality.
“I urge residents across the State to join us as we honor the innocent victims whose lives were taken too soon. I hope their families, loved ones and friends are able to find peace and resolution.”
~~~~~
Governor David Paterson has directed that flags on State government buildings across New York be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, April 8, 2009, in honor of the victims of the tragedy at Binghamton’s American Civic Association on Friday, April 3, 2009.
Governor Paterson said:
“On behalf of all New Yorkers, I wish to extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to the families, loved ones and friends of the victims of this terrible tragedy. While we may never understand this senseless act of violence, our arms and our hearts must be opened to comfort those whose lives were forever changed.
“In the months that follow, our responsibility as citizens is to not only console those who are suffering, but to devote ourselves to the greater effort of stemming senseless violence and hatred that we witness far too often.
“Only by joining together and working as one community will we find the solutions necessary to prevent tragedies such as this from recurring, and ensure a safer future for our children. They deserve our most diligent efforts to make that safer future a reality.
“I urge residents across the State to join us as we honor the innocent victims whose lives were taken too soon. I hope their families, loved ones and friends are able to find peace and resolution.”
Guess Who'll be Back Tuesday?
Mike Cejka.
While WESB and HERO listeners have been able to hear Mike for the last couple of months, WIVB viewers haven't been able to see him. He hasn't been on Channel 4 since he fell on some ice and broke his ankle on February 1.
He tells us he expects to be ready for "Wake Up!" at 5 a.m. Tuesday -- just in time for an April snowstorm.
While WESB and HERO listeners have been able to hear Mike for the last couple of months, WIVB viewers haven't been able to see him. He hasn't been on Channel 4 since he fell on some ice and broke his ankle on February 1.
He tells us he expects to be ready for "Wake Up!" at 5 a.m. Tuesday -- just in time for an April snowstorm.
Syracuse Symphony at Quick Center
Syracuse Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Samuel Wong and featuring violinist Philippe Quint, will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 17, at St. Bonaventure University’s Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. The concert is being presented by Friends of Good music in association with The Quick Center.
The program promises to be a “crowd pleaser,” said Joseph A. LoSchiavo, executive director of The Quick Center, noting Quint will perform the rhapsodic Violin Concerto in D-Major by Erich Wolfgang Korngold. The evening will also feature the popular symphony “From the New World” by Dvořák.
“The Czech composer Antonin Dvořák’s ‘Symphony from the New World’ has become one of the most popular pieces of classical music among American audiences,” said LoSchiavo. “And we are fortunate to hear the dynamic Philippe Quint’s rendition of Korngold’s Violin Concerto before he records it for Naxos Records later this year. The Syracuse Symphony Orchestra’s concerts at The Quick Center are firmly established as audience favorites and we are grateful for the symphony’s continued support in touring to communities in Western New York.”
Syracuse Symphony Orchestra began in 1961 as a community orchestra and quickly evolved into a fully professional resident orchestra serving central and northern New York state. An ensemble of national acclaim, the symphony boasts 79 musicians and a conducting staff of international caliber. It performs 193 full-orchestra and chamber ensemble concerts throughout central and northern New York, reaching more than 225,000 audience members during its 39-week season.
Guest conductor Wong first came to international attention with his New York Philharmonic debut. in 1990. In addition to having held music directorships with the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra and the New York Youth Symphony, Wong has appeared as guest conductor with the major orchestras of Toronto, Montreal, New York, Seattle, Houston, London (Royal Philharmonic), Brussels, Prague, Tel Aviv, Tokyo (Japan Philharmonic), Italy (Milan, Palermo, Rome) and Spain (Valencia, Bilbao). He made his operatic debut conducting Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville” with the Canadian Opera Company. In 1997, he led performances of Verdi’s “Rigoletto” in Beijing as part of the Hennessey Opera Series.
Violinist Quint was born of a rich musical heritage in St. Petersburg, Russia. He left the former Soviet Union in 1991 and is now an American citizen. He studied at Juilliard with the legendary Dorothy Delay and amassed top prizes at many international competitions. Coming concert highlights include a debut with the Weimar Staatskapelle, as well as a series of recitals in London, Edinburgh, Boston, Atlanta, Nancy (France) and Carnegie Hall in New York. He will also release two CDs on the Naxos label: John Corigliano’s world premiere recording of “The Red Violin Caprices,” as well as the Korngold Violin Concerto with Carlos Miguel Prieto conducting the Orchestra de Mineria. His debut album including William Schuman’s Violin Concerto earned him two Grammy Award nominations.
This performance is supported in part by the New York State Council on the Arts. For tickets and information please call the QCA at (716) 375-2494. Season ticket holders who are not able to attend the concert are asked to let the box office know so the tickets can be given to students.
This performance concludes Friends of Good Music’s Classical Music Series. Its World Music Series concludes Wednesday, May 6, with “Music From India,” featuring sarod player Aditya Verma, a performance rescheduled from earlier this year.
For each Friends of Good Music performance, The Quick Center galleries open an hour before the performance and remain open throughout intermission. Regular gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The museum is open to the public year round at no cost.
Photos courtesy of St. Bonaventure University
Four Charged for Hiding Tubbs
Four people have been charged with hindering police while they were looking for Charles Tubbs.
Tubbs was wanted on a warrant for assaulting his girlfriend when he was shot and killed by police after a chase last Wednesday night in Warren.
Tubbs' girlfriend Lawanda Collins-Haines, along with Fred Kearney Jr., Brian Emerson and Jason Baribeau were charged today with hindering apprehension for concealing Tubbs' whereabouts.
Kearney was also charged with making false reports to police. He is accused of driving Tubbs to Cleveland after the assault and later telling police that his vehicle and a weapon had been stolen.
Tubbs was wanted on a warrant for assaulting his girlfriend when he was shot and killed by police after a chase last Wednesday night in Warren.
Tubbs' girlfriend Lawanda Collins-Haines, along with Fred Kearney Jr., Brian Emerson and Jason Baribeau were charged today with hindering apprehension for concealing Tubbs' whereabouts.
Kearney was also charged with making false reports to police. He is accused of driving Tubbs to Cleveland after the assault and later telling police that his vehicle and a weapon had been stolen.
Hard at Work
A crew from C.A. Norris works on the new fuel island at the Foster Brook Crosby's Monday afternoon. During Thursday's Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting, Doug Galli, vice president and general manager of Reid Stores Inc., said the store should start selling gasoline again in a couple of weeks. Crosby's is the chamber's large business of the year.
McKean County Sheriff's Dept.
Featured in National Publication
Brad Mason and the McKean County Sheriff's Department were featured in a recent edition of the National Rifle Association's "The Eagle Eye."The article featured Mason's gun safety programs presented to McKean County school children, with the help of Eddie Eagle.
The GunSafe programs have also been presented at the Kinzua Outdoor and Travel Show, McKean County Fair and LEAF Day at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
Pictured, Eddie Eagle with Smokey Bear at the Kinzua Outdoor and Travel Show.
DEP Takes Over Permitting Duties from Conservation Districts
Pennsylvania's conservation districts will no longer have sole authority in monitoring Marcellus Shale drilling.
The Department of Environmental Protection has issued a memo to the 66 county conservation districts across the state saying some of the responsibilities for reviewing erosion and sedimentation control permits for construction of well pads, pipe lines, and access roads for Marcellus Shale gas wells will be handed over to the DEP regional offices.
The memo says the change was an effort to streamline the process needed to get the wells up and running and to maximize efficiency.
Previously, the conservation districts had been reviewing the erosion and sedimentation control permits for sites that would have more than 5 acres of land disturbed by construction of the wells.
The Department of Environmental Protection has issued a memo to the 66 county conservation districts across the state saying some of the responsibilities for reviewing erosion and sedimentation control permits for construction of well pads, pipe lines, and access roads for Marcellus Shale gas wells will be handed over to the DEP regional offices.
The memo says the change was an effort to streamline the process needed to get the wells up and running and to maximize efficiency.
Previously, the conservation districts had been reviewing the erosion and sedimentation control permits for sites that would have more than 5 acres of land disturbed by construction of the wells.
Records Contradict DeWeese Claims
Documents show that in 2006, facing a stiff challenge in an election that (State Rep. Bill) DeWeese nearly lost, his campaign tapped a state-paid computer consultant - a key figure in the Bonusgate probe - to perform a long list of political tasks.
Among other duties, that consultant crafted fund-raising invitations and sent out blast e-mails to constituents in DeWeese's district in the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania.
For the full story, go to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Among other duties, that consultant crafted fund-raising invitations and sent out blast e-mails to constituents in DeWeese's district in the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania.
For the full story, go to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Maybee Sentencing Set for Today
UPDATE: Sentencing has been postponed so Judge Larry Himelein can review a defense motion to set aside the guilty plea.
The Salamanca man accused of killing his 3-year-old daughter will be sentenced today in Cattaraugus County Court.
27-year old Guy Maybee admitted causing injuries that led to the death of Ianna Maybee in March of 2008.
She suffered broken bones, internal injuries and bleeding in her brain before she died.
Maybee could be sentenced to 20 years in prison.
The Salamanca man accused of killing his 3-year-old daughter will be sentenced today in Cattaraugus County Court.
27-year old Guy Maybee admitted causing injuries that led to the death of Ianna Maybee in March of 2008.
She suffered broken bones, internal injuries and bleeding in her brain before she died.
Maybee could be sentenced to 20 years in prison.
No Parole for Nushawn Williams
The man serving a 12-year sentence for knowingly infecting at least 13 women with HIV in the late 1990s will not be let out on parole.Nushawn Williams, who now goes by the name Shyteek Johnson was eligible for parole today but the New York State Department of Corrections Web site lists his earliest release date as April 13, 2010.
The women he infected were in the Jamestown area. One of them has full-blown AIDS.
He claims he doesn't remember being told by the state Health Department that he was HIV positive.
Kartesz Banned From Any Kind of
Mortgage-Related Work
The former Bradford landlord who's in prison for his part in a mortgage fraud scheme has been banned from ever working in Pennsylvania's mortgage industry.
The state Department of Banking filed "orders of prohibition" against 41-year-old Frank Kartesz II, meaning that he can't work with mortgages in any capacity whatsoever.
Kartesz and his business partners bought run-down houses and sold them at inflated prices. They scammed the victims out of more than $1 million.
Kartesz pleaded guilty to fraud and conspiracy and was sentenced in September to three-year and seven months in federal prison. He's is serving that sentence at the federal prison in Morgantown, W.Va.
The state Department of Banking filed "orders of prohibition" against 41-year-old Frank Kartesz II, meaning that he can't work with mortgages in any capacity whatsoever.
Kartesz and his business partners bought run-down houses and sold them at inflated prices. They scammed the victims out of more than $1 million.
Kartesz pleaded guilty to fraud and conspiracy and was sentenced in September to three-year and seven months in federal prison. He's is serving that sentence at the federal prison in Morgantown, W.Va.
Brockway Company Has Answer to
Marcellus Shale Water Problem
"First, you have to understand what the problem is with Marcellus water. For discharge, it has high dissolved solids and it's got one constituent which is very toxic, which is barium," chief chemist and co-owner Timothy Keister said. "Those are the two things that stop you from just being able to dump it into the creek."
ProChemTech's process removes the toxic barium from the flowback water, and also removes most of the scale forming minerals, allowing the water to be reused in the hydrofracturing process.
For the full story, go to the Courier-Express.
ProChemTech's process removes the toxic barium from the flowback water, and also removes most of the scale forming minerals, allowing the water to be reused in the hydrofracturing process.
For the full story, go to the Courier-Express.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Genealogy Club Hike
A dozen area residents hiked into the remains of the Smokeless Powder plant and Aetna Picric plant Saturday near Route 46 outside of Emporium. Inez Jordan of Emporium looks at what is left of one of the structures. With the onset of World War I, explosives had been in great demand in Europe, giving Emporium the opportunity for growth and the nickname “Powder City." The Cameron County Genealogy Club sponsored the trek.
A dozen area residents hiked into the remains of the Smokeless Powder plant and Aetna Picric plant Saturday near Route 46 outside of Emporium. Cameron County Genealogy Club leader Wendy Davis takes a picture of one of the structures. With the onset of World War I, explosives had been in great demand in Europe, giving Emporium the opportunity for growth and the nickname “Powder City." The genealogy club sponsored the trek.(Photos provided by Alex Davis)
This Week's Big 30 Selections
Pennsylvania
Ross Nicholson, Kane Area High School
6’2” 220lbs. Fullback, Defensive End
Ross will attend Indiana University of Pennsylvania to study Secondary Education and play football. Ross’s honors include; Selected to the All-State team 3 times, 3 time AML All-Star, 2 time D-9 Defensive Player of the Year, 2 time Big 30 All-Star, 2008 Big 30 Defensive Player of the Year, 2007 All State Defensive Player of the year in Class A. Ross was asked why he would like to play in the Big 30 Classic and he said, “for the chance to play High School football one more time with teammates and competitors that I have played with and against since I started playing at age 9 years old.” Ross’s biggest thrill came was playing in the state semifinals his junior year.
Dillan Holden, Sheffield Area High School
5’11” 200lbs. Tight End, Middle Linebacker
Dillan’s future is undecided at that time but would like to pursue a career in motorcycle mechanics. Dillan is an Honor Roll student and was a team captain for his football team. Dillan stated’ “I want to play in the Big 30 game because I love football, and the Big 30 gives me one more chance to play ball. Dillan continues on about his biggest thrill, “My biggest thrill was making big plays, whether it was making a big stuff in the middle or catching the game winning two point conversions.
Josh Catalano, Elk County Catholic High School
5’8” 180lbs. Fullback, Middle Linebacker
Josh will attend college to major in Secondary Education. Josh’s honors include; Big 30 All-Star, AML All-Star, Who’s Who among American High School Students, National Honor Society, USAA International Foreign Language Award, National Achievement Academy. Josh was asked why he wants to play in the game and he stated, “I love the game of football as well as earning money for charity.” Josh’s biggest thrill came when winning the first playoff game for his school in fifteen years.
New York
Christian Worth, Allegany-Limestone Central School
5’9” 160lbs. Running back/Wide Receiver, Cornerback
Christian plans to attend St. Bonaventure University to major in business. Christian’s honors include; Special Teams Player of the Year, and was a High Honor Roll student. Christian was asked why he wants to play in the Big 30 game he stated; “Having been a spectator for several years it comes with great pride and honor to be selected for such a prestigious event, it has always been one of my goals since playing.” Christian commented about his biggest thrill, “After a disappointing 0-9 football season my junior season, starting my senior year 4-0 and competing against eventual Class C State Champion Southwestern.”
Daniel Shaw, Randolph Central School
6’1” 180lbs. Wide Receiver, Linebacker/Strong Safety
Daniel is currently undecided but has had offers to play football at Brockport, Buffalo State, and Alfred University. Daniels honors include being named to the All-Conference Team, Big 30 Defensive All-Star. Daniel commented why he would like to play in the big 30 game and he stated, “I would like to play in the Big 30 game because I love to play football, it’s a chance to represent my school and home town, and is a great honor to be recognized for that type of athletic achievement.” Daniels biggest thrill came playing at Ralph Wilson stadium in 2007.
Adam Jacobs, Salamanca Central School
6’1” 190lbs. Running Back, Outside Linebacker
Adam is hoping to attend either Brockport or Elmira to study Sports Medicine. Adam talked about playing in the Big 30 game and he said, “I have watched the game since I was a young toddler and it’s been a dream to play in it.” Adams biggest thrill came in his junior year returning a punt 77 yards for a touchdown.
Ross Nicholson, Kane Area High School
6’2” 220lbs. Fullback, Defensive End
Ross will attend Indiana University of Pennsylvania to study Secondary Education and play football. Ross’s honors include; Selected to the All-State team 3 times, 3 time AML All-Star, 2 time D-9 Defensive Player of the Year, 2 time Big 30 All-Star, 2008 Big 30 Defensive Player of the Year, 2007 All State Defensive Player of the year in Class A. Ross was asked why he would like to play in the Big 30 Classic and he said, “for the chance to play High School football one more time with teammates and competitors that I have played with and against since I started playing at age 9 years old.” Ross’s biggest thrill came was playing in the state semifinals his junior year.
Dillan Holden, Sheffield Area High School
5’11” 200lbs. Tight End, Middle Linebacker
Dillan’s future is undecided at that time but would like to pursue a career in motorcycle mechanics. Dillan is an Honor Roll student and was a team captain for his football team. Dillan stated’ “I want to play in the Big 30 game because I love football, and the Big 30 gives me one more chance to play ball. Dillan continues on about his biggest thrill, “My biggest thrill was making big plays, whether it was making a big stuff in the middle or catching the game winning two point conversions.
Josh Catalano, Elk County Catholic High School
5’8” 180lbs. Fullback, Middle Linebacker
Josh will attend college to major in Secondary Education. Josh’s honors include; Big 30 All-Star, AML All-Star, Who’s Who among American High School Students, National Honor Society, USAA International Foreign Language Award, National Achievement Academy. Josh was asked why he wants to play in the game and he stated, “I love the game of football as well as earning money for charity.” Josh’s biggest thrill came when winning the first playoff game for his school in fifteen years.
New York
Christian Worth, Allegany-Limestone Central School
5’9” 160lbs. Running back/Wide Receiver, Cornerback
Christian plans to attend St. Bonaventure University to major in business. Christian’s honors include; Special Teams Player of the Year, and was a High Honor Roll student. Christian was asked why he wants to play in the Big 30 game he stated; “Having been a spectator for several years it comes with great pride and honor to be selected for such a prestigious event, it has always been one of my goals since playing.” Christian commented about his biggest thrill, “After a disappointing 0-9 football season my junior season, starting my senior year 4-0 and competing against eventual Class C State Champion Southwestern.”
Daniel Shaw, Randolph Central School
6’1” 180lbs. Wide Receiver, Linebacker/Strong Safety
Daniel is currently undecided but has had offers to play football at Brockport, Buffalo State, and Alfred University. Daniels honors include being named to the All-Conference Team, Big 30 Defensive All-Star. Daniel commented why he would like to play in the big 30 game and he stated, “I would like to play in the Big 30 game because I love to play football, it’s a chance to represent my school and home town, and is a great honor to be recognized for that type of athletic achievement.” Daniels biggest thrill came playing at Ralph Wilson stadium in 2007.
Adam Jacobs, Salamanca Central School
6’1” 190lbs. Running Back, Outside Linebacker
Adam is hoping to attend either Brockport or Elmira to study Sports Medicine. Adam talked about playing in the Big 30 game and he said, “I have watched the game since I was a young toddler and it’s been a dream to play in it.” Adams biggest thrill came in his junior year returning a punt 77 yards for a touchdown.
Fire Destroys Eldred Barber Shop
A fire destroyed Dale's Barber Shop in Eldred Sunday morning.
A state police fire marshal says the fire started in a rear bedroom on the first floor of the two-story building at 157 Main Street.
The fire was caused by an electrical malfunction.
Dale Southard owned the building.
Damage is estimated at $100,000.
For more information, and photos, go to the Star Hose Company or the Austin Volunteer Fire Department.
A state police fire marshal says the fire started in a rear bedroom on the first floor of the two-story building at 157 Main Street.
The fire was caused by an electrical malfunction.
Dale Southard owned the building.
Damage is estimated at $100,000.
For more information, and photos, go to the Star Hose Company or the Austin Volunteer Fire Department.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Man Accused of Destroying Home
A Westline man is accused of helping to destroy the inside of a home whose owner is in a nursing home.
Last week, 20-year-old Douglas Hepfner was with two juveniles who smashed china, spray painted walls and broke light fixtures, among other things.
Hepfner and the juveniles also climbed onto the roof of the house on El Day Drive, where Hepfner defecated and cleaned himself with his T-shirts. He left the T-shirts behind, and police recovered them.
He's in jail on $20,000 bail.
Last week, 20-year-old Douglas Hepfner was with two juveniles who smashed china, spray painted walls and broke light fixtures, among other things.
Hepfner and the juveniles also climbed onto the roof of the house on El Day Drive, where Hepfner defecated and cleaned himself with his T-shirts. He left the T-shirts behind, and police recovered them.
He's in jail on $20,000 bail.
PA Forests Could Provide Energy
Nearly 500 million tons of low-use wood, poor quality or damaged wood are estimated to exist in Pennsylvania's forests. The portion of this resource that is available economically could be used more extensively in an environmentally friendly way as an alternative energy resource.
"Pennsylvania has an exceptional opportunity to look at homegrown alternatives to meet our energy needs," said (Agriculture Secretary Dennis) Wolff. "Using renewable materials like low-use wood as fuel sources will reduce our dependence on foreign oil, keeping more of our hard-earned money at home benefiting our local communities rather than sending those dollars abroad."
For more information, click HERE.
"Pennsylvania has an exceptional opportunity to look at homegrown alternatives to meet our energy needs," said (Agriculture Secretary Dennis) Wolff. "Using renewable materials like low-use wood as fuel sources will reduce our dependence on foreign oil, keeping more of our hard-earned money at home benefiting our local communities rather than sending those dollars abroad."
For more information, click HERE.
UPDATE on Police Shooting:
3 Pittsburgh Officers Dead
Three police officers were killed and two others were injured in a shooting in Pittsburgh's Stanton Heights neighborhood Saturday morning, where as many as 70 to 80 rounds may have been fired.
For continuing coverage, including live reports from the scene, go to WTAE-TV.
For continuing coverage, including live reports from the scene, go to WTAE-TV.
Missing Dog in Olean
A black lab named Barley has been missing for 2 days. He was last seen in the South Union Street area of Olean near Reid's Food Barn. He was wearing a blue color and he's very friendly. If you see him, call Tricia at 598-2121.
Early Mickey Mouse Drawings at
Buffalo International Film Festival
“These are the rarest and most valuable pieces of Walt Disney art in existence,” said Ed Summer, founder and president of the Buffalo International Film Festival, which is presenting the daylong celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of Mickey Mouse. “They represent the first known drawings of Mickey Mouse as a fully defined character.
For more information, go to the Buffalo News.
For more information, go to the Buffalo News.
Route 219 in Elk County Re-Opened
Part of Route 219 near Brockport in Horton Township was closed for about two hours because of a motor vehicle accident.
The accident happened at 8:50 a.m. The road was re-opened at around 11 a.m.
The investigating state trooper will release more information on the accident as soon as possible.
The accident happened at 8:50 a.m. The road was re-opened at around 11 a.m.
The investigating state trooper will release more information on the accident as soon as possible.
Pittsburgh Police Officers Shot
(CNN) -- Three police officers were shot in Pittsburgh on Saturday, as they responded to a domestic call, Allegheny County police said.
A gunman is apparently holed up inside a home in the Stanton Heights neighborhood of the western Pennsylvania city.
The conditions of the officers were not known.
Police couldn't say whether the officers struck were from the city, the county or other departments. City, county and state police officers were at the scene.
CNN affiliate WTAE reported that as many as 80 shots have been fired between people in the house and officers
Get more, including live coverage, from WTAE-TV.
A gunman is apparently holed up inside a home in the Stanton Heights neighborhood of the western Pennsylvania city.
The conditions of the officers were not known.
Police couldn't say whether the officers struck were from the city, the county or other departments. City, county and state police officers were at the scene.
CNN affiliate WTAE reported that as many as 80 shots have been fired between people in the house and officers
Get more, including live coverage, from WTAE-TV.
Pass the Tortilla Chips
A truck driver hit a disabled trailer on Interstate 90 near Erie on Friday, dumping 43,000 pounds of salsa onto the highway.
State police say a 1998 Freightliner hit part of a box trailer that had bent and stopped, partially blocking the right westbound lane of Interstate 90. The crash scattered boxes of salsa across the road near Route 20.
No one was hurt.
The right lane was partially blocked. It took a crew of eight men several hours to move the salsa to the side of the highway.
No word on if anyone brought tortilla chips to the scene.
State police say a 1998 Freightliner hit part of a box trailer that had bent and stopped, partially blocking the right westbound lane of Interstate 90. The crash scattered boxes of salsa across the road near Route 20.
No one was hurt.
The right lane was partially blocked. It took a crew of eight men several hours to move the salsa to the side of the highway.
No word on if anyone brought tortilla chips to the scene.
Arson Suspect Has Alibi:
He Was Buying Drugs
The former firefighter accused of setting two fires in the arson-plagued community of Coatesville says he has an alibi: He was buying drugs.
During a preliminary hearing for 37-year-old Robert Tracey Jr., an investigator testified that Tracey told police he wasn't at the scenes on the night of the blazes because he had gone to buy cocaine.
For the full story, go to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
During a preliminary hearing for 37-year-old Robert Tracey Jr., an investigator testified that Tracey told police he wasn't at the scenes on the night of the blazes because he had gone to buy cocaine.
For the full story, go to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Wind Advisory in Effect
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the entire region until 4 o'clock this afternoon. Some areas can expect sustained winds of 20 to 30 miles an hour with gusts up to 50 miles an hour.
Winds this strong can cause minor property damage.
Winds this strong can cause minor property damage.
NY Senate Passes Budget
The state Senate put the final okay on New York's $132 billion budget Friday - three days past the deadline.
The state budget increases spending by $10.5 billion, or 8.7%, and imposes $8 billion in new fees and taxes while closing a record $17.7 billion deficit.
It also repeals much of the tough Rockefeller-era drug laws, adds bottled water to the 5-cent bottle deposit law, and eliminates a property tax rebate check.
State Senator Cathy Young is unhappy with the budget, and voted "no" on all the bills. She says she hopes Governor David Paterson vetoes the bill. He is expected to sign the budget bill.
The state budget increases spending by $10.5 billion, or 8.7%, and imposes $8 billion in new fees and taxes while closing a record $17.7 billion deficit.
It also repeals much of the tough Rockefeller-era drug laws, adds bottled water to the 5-cent bottle deposit law, and eliminates a property tax rebate check.
State Senator Cathy Young is unhappy with the budget, and voted "no" on all the bills. She says she hopes Governor David Paterson vetoes the bill. He is expected to sign the budget bill.
AWOL Soldier Jailed in Catt County
A Hinsdale man considered AWOL from the US Army is being held without bail in Cattaraugus County Jail.
Sheriff's deputies arrested 27-year-old Nathan Michael Joy in Hinsdale about 7:30 last night on a warrant from the Army.
He was arraigned in the Town of Olean and sent to jail.
Sheriff's deputies arrested 27-year-old Nathan Michael Joy in Hinsdale about 7:30 last night on a warrant from the Army.
He was arraigned in the Town of Olean and sent to jail.
Statement from Gov. Paterson
On Binghamton Shootings
“Earlier today (Friday), I spoke with Vice President Joe Biden, who wished to extend his, President Obama’s and First Lady Michelle Obama’s condolences and prayers to the families of those who were affected by today’s shooting, and all citizens of Binghamton, the Southern Tier and New York State.
“On behalf of all New Yorkers, I would like to express our profound outrage at this senseless act of violence, where innocent people were killed, injured and traumatized. This is the worst tragedy in the history of this great city. It is time for all of us to come together and end this cycle of senseless violence.
“The American Civic Association was established for those who wanted to become citizens of the United States of America. This place was a haven for those who wanted to be part of the American Dream. Today, that dream was tragically thwarted. But there still is an American Dream, and all of us who are Americans, or who want to become Americans, will now try to heal the very deep wounds in the city of Binghamton.
“I am hopeful that this case will be brought to immediate resolution and the citizens of Binghamton will feel safe tonight. But we all have a profound sadness and sorrow over what our neighbors have had to go through today.
“I want to thank the Binghamton Police Department, the Broome County Sheriff’s Department, the New York State Police, the State Office of Emergency Management, the Office of Mental Health, the Crime Victims Board, the Office of Temporary Disability Assistance, Catholic Charities of Broome County and all the other agencies of Binghamton and the State that coordinated so effectively today. We will continue to provide any and all assistance that is needed.
“I ask all New Yorkers to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts. I ask all New Yorkers to pray for those who are recovering.”
“On behalf of all New Yorkers, I would like to express our profound outrage at this senseless act of violence, where innocent people were killed, injured and traumatized. This is the worst tragedy in the history of this great city. It is time for all of us to come together and end this cycle of senseless violence.
“The American Civic Association was established for those who wanted to become citizens of the United States of America. This place was a haven for those who wanted to be part of the American Dream. Today, that dream was tragically thwarted. But there still is an American Dream, and all of us who are Americans, or who want to become Americans, will now try to heal the very deep wounds in the city of Binghamton.
“I am hopeful that this case will be brought to immediate resolution and the citizens of Binghamton will feel safe tonight. But we all have a profound sadness and sorrow over what our neighbors have had to go through today.
“I want to thank the Binghamton Police Department, the Broome County Sheriff’s Department, the New York State Police, the State Office of Emergency Management, the Office of Mental Health, the Crime Victims Board, the Office of Temporary Disability Assistance, Catholic Charities of Broome County and all the other agencies of Binghamton and the State that coordinated so effectively today. We will continue to provide any and all assistance that is needed.
“I ask all New Yorkers to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts. I ask all New Yorkers to pray for those who are recovering.”
Friday, April 3, 2009
PA Soldiers First to Respond
Pennsylvania soldiers were first to respond to a coalition air strike that killed one alleged insurgent and injured two more Thursday night near Taji, Iraq.
Four armed Iraqi men were spotted placing an improvised explosive near an important intersection, according to the Multi-National Division in Iraq. The division called an air strike to the location.
Soldiers with the Pennsylvania National Guard's 56th Stryker Brigade Combat team were first to respond after the strike. The soldiers administered first aid to the two wounded Iraqis and took them for medical treatment and interrogation.
The man killed in the strike was turned over to local authorities for identification.
Soldiers didn't find the fourth alleged insurgent in the area.
National Guard troops from the Bradford Armory are members of the team.
Four armed Iraqi men were spotted placing an improvised explosive near an important intersection, according to the Multi-National Division in Iraq. The division called an air strike to the location.
Soldiers with the Pennsylvania National Guard's 56th Stryker Brigade Combat team were first to respond after the strike. The soldiers administered first aid to the two wounded Iraqis and took them for medical treatment and interrogation.
The man killed in the strike was turned over to local authorities for identification.
Soldiers didn't find the fourth alleged insurgent in the area.
National Guard troops from the Bradford Armory are members of the team.
UPDATE on Binghamton Shooting:
14 Dead, Including Gunman
(CNN) -- A lone gunman killed at least 13 people and himself Friday in an immigration services center in Binghamton, New York, in what officials are calling the "most tragic day in Binghamton's history."
The gunman drove a car to the back of American Civic Association building to block the exit and entered the front of the building, where he shot two receptionists, Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski said.
More from CNN.
The gunman drove a car to the back of American Civic Association building to block the exit and entered the front of the building, where he shot two receptionists, Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski said.
More from CNN.
KCH Introduces
In-House Rehabilition Team
By Ruth Gentilman Peterson
Director of Communications
Last week CEO J. Gary Rhodes announced that KCH is bringing Rehabilitation Services back in-house with a highly skilled team headed by Joseph Sorg, PT, Ph.D.
New equipment has arrived and the new KCH Rehab Services is open for business with the full spectrum of services.
This week, Senior Leader of Patient Care Services and Director of Nursing Pam Bray, RN has announced the following members of the team:
Jim Bell, OTR/L, Ph.D., Occupational Therapist received his Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Denver, his MS in Occupational Therapy from D’Youville College, Buffalo and Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy, Healthcare Administration from Brentwick University in London, England.
Deanna Gardner, Physical Therapy Assistant, received her Associate Degree in Science from The Pennsylvania State University.
Don Zilkofski, Physical Therapy Aide, has been a part of the rehabilitation team at KCH for nearly twenty years.
Ann Kane, PT, Physical Therapist, for KCH Home Health received her B.S. in Physical Therapy from Ithaca College. She has been with KCH for many years.
Trisha Wright, AT, RN, Athletic Trainer, works with the Kane Area School District. She received her BS in Health Services (Athletic Training) from Slippery Rock, her Associate RN degree from the University of Pittsburgh (Bradford) and her BSN (Nursing) at Slippery Rock. In addition to her Athletic Training position, she is a nurse in the KCH Emergency Room.
Speech Therapy services are contracted through Genesis Rehabilitation.
Sorg’s Experience
Joseph Sorg, PT, Ph.D. leads the new rehabilitation program. Dr. Sorg was born and raised in St. Marys. He received his BS in Biology from Niagra University, his certificate in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University, Programs in Physical Therapy.
His first physical therapy position was at Hamot Medical Center. While there he participated in a number of seminars in Orthopedics, Manual Medicine, and Electromyography. After leaving Hamot he worked in DuBois and Indiana, Pennsylvania before returning to graduate school at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical College of Virginia where he received his Ph.D. in Anatomy.
At West Virginia University (WVU) he taught anatomy to physical therapy and first year medical students and also taught electrotherapy and research.
While at WVU he worked with the Chronic Pain Management Service doing PT assessments and treatments and collaborated with clinical psychologists on issues dealing with pain, fear and anxiety and helped train anesthesiology residents on musculo/skeletal assessments of patients.
Dr. Sorg left WVU for an academic position at the University of Scranton, where he taught neuroscience and advanced orthopedics.
Two years later he returned to the clinical world of physical therapy in the hospital setting and in 1999, he moved to Crown Point, New Mexico for a year-long position working with the Navajo Area Indian Health Service as chief physical therapist, where the health concerns of the Native American population were diabetes, obesity and alcoholism.
Dr. Sorg returned to West Virginia University Hospital to start a new program with neuro and orthopedic surgery. He developed the neuro monitoring service that measured and followed motor and sensory nerve action potentials during brain (tumor and aneurysm), spinal cord (tumor and trauma) and cranial nerve surgeries.
Cranial nerve surgeries included facial assessment during parotid surgery and assessment of the nerve to the vocal cords during thyroid surgery.
Dr. Sorg participated in numerous grand rounds in neurosurgery, orthopedics, has spoken at the state and national levels giving lectures, and had an abstract accepted at a neuromonitoring meeting.
Open for Business
When a patient gets a order or script from their physician or healthcare provider for physical, occupational or speech therapy, it’s the choice of the patient where to receive that care. By bringing rehab services backing-house, that choice becomes much easier for patients in the region.
KCH’s newly assembled team offers the full spectrum of patient rehabilitation and recovery for a wide range of conditions such as joint replacement, stroke, accident, neurological disorders, arthritis, accidents, and amputations.
Even if immediate care for trauma or surgery is provided by another facility, KCH can continue follow-up care close to home.
Offering the full complement of rehabilitation services with a highly experienced team is one more way Kane Community Hospital is making the hometown choice, the best and most convenient choice for individuals and families.
Bray noted that “KCH wants to be recognized by residents of the tri-county area as the healthcare provider of choice for inpatient, diagnostic and ambulatory care. The return of Rehab Services in-house was one area for enhancing our vision. An in-house program allows the continuity of care and the ability for KCH to manage a patient’s experience from diagnosis, to treatment to full recovery.”
Call KCH Rehabilitation Services at 837-4735 or 1-800-595-9200 and ask for extension 4735 to schedule an evaluation or appointment or ask your physician’s office to give KCH Rehabilitation Services a call.
Pictured, from left, are embers of the new KCH Rehabilitation Services Team led by Joseph Sorg, PT, Ph.D. include: Jim Bell, OTR/L, Ph.D., Don Zilkofski, Physical Therapy Aide. Standing Deanna Gardner, PTA; Trisha Wright, AT, RN; Ann Kane, PT
(Photo courtesy of Kane Community Hospital)
Director of Communications
Last week CEO J. Gary Rhodes announced that KCH is bringing Rehabilitation Services back in-house with a highly skilled team headed by Joseph Sorg, PT, Ph.D.
New equipment has arrived and the new KCH Rehab Services is open for business with the full spectrum of services.
This week, Senior Leader of Patient Care Services and Director of Nursing Pam Bray, RN has announced the following members of the team:
Jim Bell, OTR/L, Ph.D., Occupational Therapist received his Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Denver, his MS in Occupational Therapy from D’Youville College, Buffalo and Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy, Healthcare Administration from Brentwick University in London, England.
Deanna Gardner, Physical Therapy Assistant, received her Associate Degree in Science from The Pennsylvania State University.
Don Zilkofski, Physical Therapy Aide, has been a part of the rehabilitation team at KCH for nearly twenty years.
Ann Kane, PT, Physical Therapist, for KCH Home Health received her B.S. in Physical Therapy from Ithaca College. She has been with KCH for many years.
Trisha Wright, AT, RN, Athletic Trainer, works with the Kane Area School District. She received her BS in Health Services (Athletic Training) from Slippery Rock, her Associate RN degree from the University of Pittsburgh (Bradford) and her BSN (Nursing) at Slippery Rock. In addition to her Athletic Training position, she is a nurse in the KCH Emergency Room.
Speech Therapy services are contracted through Genesis Rehabilitation.
Sorg’s Experience
Joseph Sorg, PT, Ph.D. leads the new rehabilitation program. Dr. Sorg was born and raised in St. Marys. He received his BS in Biology from Niagra University, his certificate in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University, Programs in Physical Therapy. His first physical therapy position was at Hamot Medical Center. While there he participated in a number of seminars in Orthopedics, Manual Medicine, and Electromyography. After leaving Hamot he worked in DuBois and Indiana, Pennsylvania before returning to graduate school at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical College of Virginia where he received his Ph.D. in Anatomy.
At West Virginia University (WVU) he taught anatomy to physical therapy and first year medical students and also taught electrotherapy and research.
While at WVU he worked with the Chronic Pain Management Service doing PT assessments and treatments and collaborated with clinical psychologists on issues dealing with pain, fear and anxiety and helped train anesthesiology residents on musculo/skeletal assessments of patients.
Dr. Sorg left WVU for an academic position at the University of Scranton, where he taught neuroscience and advanced orthopedics.
Two years later he returned to the clinical world of physical therapy in the hospital setting and in 1999, he moved to Crown Point, New Mexico for a year-long position working with the Navajo Area Indian Health Service as chief physical therapist, where the health concerns of the Native American population were diabetes, obesity and alcoholism.
Dr. Sorg returned to West Virginia University Hospital to start a new program with neuro and orthopedic surgery. He developed the neuro monitoring service that measured and followed motor and sensory nerve action potentials during brain (tumor and aneurysm), spinal cord (tumor and trauma) and cranial nerve surgeries.
Cranial nerve surgeries included facial assessment during parotid surgery and assessment of the nerve to the vocal cords during thyroid surgery.
Dr. Sorg participated in numerous grand rounds in neurosurgery, orthopedics, has spoken at the state and national levels giving lectures, and had an abstract accepted at a neuromonitoring meeting.
Open for Business
When a patient gets a order or script from their physician or healthcare provider for physical, occupational or speech therapy, it’s the choice of the patient where to receive that care. By bringing rehab services backing-house, that choice becomes much easier for patients in the region.
KCH’s newly assembled team offers the full spectrum of patient rehabilitation and recovery for a wide range of conditions such as joint replacement, stroke, accident, neurological disorders, arthritis, accidents, and amputations.
Even if immediate care for trauma or surgery is provided by another facility, KCH can continue follow-up care close to home.
Offering the full complement of rehabilitation services with a highly experienced team is one more way Kane Community Hospital is making the hometown choice, the best and most convenient choice for individuals and families.
Bray noted that “KCH wants to be recognized by residents of the tri-county area as the healthcare provider of choice for inpatient, diagnostic and ambulatory care. The return of Rehab Services in-house was one area for enhancing our vision. An in-house program allows the continuity of care and the ability for KCH to manage a patient’s experience from diagnosis, to treatment to full recovery.”
Call KCH Rehabilitation Services at 837-4735 or 1-800-595-9200 and ask for extension 4735 to schedule an evaluation or appointment or ask your physician’s office to give KCH Rehabilitation Services a call.
Pictured, from left, are embers of the new KCH Rehabilitation Services Team led by Joseph Sorg, PT, Ph.D. include: Jim Bell, OTR/L, Ph.D., Don Zilkofski, Physical Therapy Aide. Standing Deanna Gardner, PTA; Trisha Wright, AT, RN; Ann Kane, PT
(Photo courtesy of Kane Community Hospital)
Young Fights for STAR Rebates
Senator Cathy Young (R,I,C-Olean) today fought to restore STAR rebate checks to homeowners through an amendment that was voted down by the Senate Democrats.“Our property taxpayers need and deserve relief. This budget was put together in secret by three men in a room from New York City who don’t seem to care about the huge tax burden our homeowners are forced to shoulder.
“Every fall, households across the state have come to rely on those checks for things like school clothes, groceries and other necessities,” said Senator Young. “What was once offered as needed property tax relief gets turned into yet another property tax burden that many families in upstate New York simply cannot afford.”
Senate Republicans initiated the STAR rebate check program, which provide a yearly check mailed directly to homeowners to help ease the burden of skyrocketing property taxes, in 2006.
Sen. Young said the amendment proposed today would have provided an additional $4.2 million in relief for homeowners in Allegany County; $6.1 million in Cattaraugus County; $11.3 million in Chautauqua; and $5.5 million for Livingston County.
“This budget is an unbelievable explosion of spending that in one fell swoop will wreak havoc on the upstate economy. It simply taxes too much, spends too much and has no initiatives for job creation.”
Listen to Young's comments HERE.
Article on Why People Dance
Dr. Helene Lawson, professor of sociology at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford who has taken tap dance lessons for five years, wrote a paper about her experience and those of other dancers, which has been published in an arts journal from England.Lawson’s paper, “Why Dance? The Motivations of an Unlikely Group of Dancers,” was published in the Winter 2008/2009 edition of Music and Arts in Action, which is published by the University of Exeter.
In her paper, Lawson explains that she undertook the study because she wanted to know why amateur dancers dance. She interviewed 75 adult dance students, including the dancers in her tap dance group in Bradford, and also visited private dance studios across the country, including studios in Redondo Beach, Calif., Nashville, Tenn., and Chicago, Ill.
In addition to addressing why people dance, Lawson also writes about how dancers are affected by recitals, which she said are emotional roller coasters, and why some of them eventually dropped out of class despite the benefits they originally claimed to receive from dancing.
“There is something about the feeling dancing evokes that cannot be explained,” Lawson writes, “but which needs to be addressed because it is essential to understanding why amateurs of this caliber want to dance.”
She discovered that the reasons people dance could be grouped into six categories: keeping fit, seeking stability, seeking a sense of community, seeking to capture life, seeking to free one’s spirit, and seeking a new identity.
Ellen, a health care work in Pennsylvania, told Lawson she was having trouble remembering, and in her job she was concerned about that. Dancing “would make me use my brain to think and remember,” she said.
Other dancers, Lawson discovered, danced to seek stability and relieve stress. According to Andrea, a mother of two from New York, “Family and work pressures are common sources of stress that motivate my dancing.”
For most dancers, Lawson writes, the dance class is a kind of community. Mary, a 45-year-old student from California told Lawson, “We’re a strange family of different social classes, ages and lifestyles, yet somehow the same.”
For Renita, an administrative secretary at a Pennsylvania hospital, dancing gives her freedom. “I dance because the passion of music moves me almost as needing to breathe,” she told Lawson. “I almost feel a freedom when I dance because of the cleansing of my soul from the ability to let my natural inclination to music rule.”
Several dancers, including Janis, a 55-year-old preschool teacher in Pennsylvania, said dancing gave them a new identity. Janis told Lawson she was depressed and was finding herself through dance. “I feel like I have a whole new identity. I am someone else.”
According to Lawson, “Re-examining the dancers’ motivations, I see that they experience a documented exhilaration from dancing together and especially from public performance as a troupe.”
Lawson, who has been teaching at Pitt-Bradford since 1991, is the program director of sociology and coordinator of the gender studies minor. She is the author of “Ladies on the Lot: Women, Car Sales and the Pursuit of the American Dream.” She has also published many journal articles on hair workers, conservation officers, Internet dating and is currently working on an article describing survival methods of small dairy farmers.
Police Officer Exonerated
Warren Police Officer Brian Gulnac has been exonerated in connection to the shooting death of a man Wednesday night.
Police were attempting to pick up Charles Tubbs on a warrant for simple assault and reckless endangerment when he led them on a chase from West Fifth Avenue to Beech Street, where he crashed his vehicle.
During a news conference this afternoon, District Attorney Ross McKierman said a police video captured part of the incident.
McKiernan says after the crash Tubbs immediately began firing at Gulnac with a .22-caliber rifle and hit his police cruiser twice. Gulnac returned fire, and hit Tubbs in the chest and head.
McKeirnan says Tubbs had 49 rounds of live ammunition in his pockets.
Police were attempting to pick up Charles Tubbs on a warrant for simple assault and reckless endangerment when he led them on a chase from West Fifth Avenue to Beech Street, where he crashed his vehicle.
During a news conference this afternoon, District Attorney Ross McKierman said a police video captured part of the incident.
McKiernan says after the crash Tubbs immediately began firing at Gulnac with a .22-caliber rifle and hit his police cruiser twice. Gulnac returned fire, and hit Tubbs in the chest and head.
McKeirnan says Tubbs had 49 rounds of live ammunition in his pockets.
AG: Nonprofit Head Stole
$400K from PA Taxpayers
The head of a Philadelphia nonprofit organization is accused of using more than $400,000 in state taxpayer money intended for poor children and the elderly s to finance his lavish lifestyle.Tyron B. Ali is charged with more than 2,000 counts of forgery, theft, tampering, deception and other crimes. A grand jury recommended the charges after hearing testimony that Ali spent the money on Caribbean travel, fancy clothes and more.
For more information, go to the attorney general's Web site.
It's Leek Time
From the US Forest Service:
Snow banks are receding, the afternoon sun warms the air, and the green leaves of leeks are peeking from the earth where the snow just melted. The arrival of leeks (Allium sp.), or “ramps” as they are sometimes called, signal spring.
“Is it legal or not to dig leeks on the Allegheny National Forest (NF)?” This is one of the questions frequently asked by the public in the springtime. According to Forest Service Law Enforcement, leeks may be legally picked without a permit for personal consumption on most lands within the Allegheny NF. Personal consumption means picking what you will use for yourself and your family. “…legally picked without a permit” is called ‘Incidental Free Use Without a Permit’.
Persons picking leeks for personal consumption may not sell or exchange any portion of the leek plant. If you pick leeks under ‘Use Without a Permit’, then exercise reasonable care to sustain leeks into the future for your grandchildren to pick. You can help do this by:
· Prevent damage to other plants or the soil;
· Only harvest leeks in season – early spring;
· Never harvest more than 1/3 of leeks in an area;
· Use the smallest tool to harvest the leeks so as to minimize soil disturbance or uprooting of other plants;
· Place rocks, soil, leaves, back in the place you found them.
You are not allowed to pick leeks, even for personal consumption, on a few areas of the Allegheny NF. These areas include the Hickory Creek and Allegheny River Island Wilderness, the two wilderness study areas surrounding Minister Creek in Warren County and Indian Run in McKean County, the Buckaloons Heritage Area in Warren County, the Hearts Content National Scenic Area in Warren County, and the Tionesta Research Natural Area and Tionesta National Scenic Area in McKean and Warren Counties. Collection is prohibited in these management areas to conserve the resource values for which they were designated under the Allegheny NF Land and Resource Management Plan.
Leeks are found in wet woods and stream banks in early spring. The leaves, stems, and bulbs of the leek plant are all edible, and many people find their robust, onion-like flavor a marvelous addition to cheese, soups, stews, pies, and dips. It has even been suggested that they can be used for medicinal purposes as a tonic to fight colds. Chop leaves into chicken soup to make an old fashioned remedy even more potent.
Leek Dip
One 16 ounce container of sour cream
One package of cream cheese, softened at room temperature
One teaspoon of garlic (if desired)
Ten to twelve leeks, chopped fine
Parsley, to suit taste
Mix all ingredients well and let refrigerate over night.
Snow banks are receding, the afternoon sun warms the air, and the green leaves of leeks are peeking from the earth where the snow just melted. The arrival of leeks (Allium sp.), or “ramps” as they are sometimes called, signal spring. “Is it legal or not to dig leeks on the Allegheny National Forest (NF)?” This is one of the questions frequently asked by the public in the springtime. According to Forest Service Law Enforcement, leeks may be legally picked without a permit for personal consumption on most lands within the Allegheny NF. Personal consumption means picking what you will use for yourself and your family. “…legally picked without a permit” is called ‘Incidental Free Use Without a Permit’.
Persons picking leeks for personal consumption may not sell or exchange any portion of the leek plant. If you pick leeks under ‘Use Without a Permit’, then exercise reasonable care to sustain leeks into the future for your grandchildren to pick. You can help do this by:
· Prevent damage to other plants or the soil;
· Only harvest leeks in season – early spring;
· Never harvest more than 1/3 of leeks in an area;
· Use the smallest tool to harvest the leeks so as to minimize soil disturbance or uprooting of other plants;
· Place rocks, soil, leaves, back in the place you found them.
You are not allowed to pick leeks, even for personal consumption, on a few areas of the Allegheny NF. These areas include the Hickory Creek and Allegheny River Island Wilderness, the two wilderness study areas surrounding Minister Creek in Warren County and Indian Run in McKean County, the Buckaloons Heritage Area in Warren County, the Hearts Content National Scenic Area in Warren County, and the Tionesta Research Natural Area and Tionesta National Scenic Area in McKean and Warren Counties. Collection is prohibited in these management areas to conserve the resource values for which they were designated under the Allegheny NF Land and Resource Management Plan.
Leeks are found in wet woods and stream banks in early spring. The leaves, stems, and bulbs of the leek plant are all edible, and many people find their robust, onion-like flavor a marvelous addition to cheese, soups, stews, pies, and dips. It has even been suggested that they can be used for medicinal purposes as a tonic to fight colds. Chop leaves into chicken soup to make an old fashioned remedy even more potent.
Leek Dip
One 16 ounce container of sour cream
One package of cream cheese, softened at room temperature
One teaspoon of garlic (if desired)
Ten to twelve leeks, chopped fine
Parsley, to suit taste
Mix all ingredients well and let refrigerate over night.
Obama Fried Chicken?
“It’s exploitative,” said Councilman Charles Barron (D-Brooklyn), who is planning a protest outside Obama Fried Chicken restaurant Monday if its green awning is not removed. “It's like saying Obama is a watermelon lover.”
For the full story, go to amNewYork.
For the full story, go to amNewYork.
14 Dead in Binghamton Shooting
The gunman, a 42-year-old from Upstate New York, is among the dead. Authorities will hold a news conference soon. MSNBC has identifed the shooter has Jiverly Voong.
Statement from New York Governor David Paterson:
“This is a tragic day for New York. While the situation is still developing and details are being gathered, we do know that a gunman entered the American Civic Association in Binghamton this morning and that there are fatalities. We are monitoring the situation and I have directed the State Police to assist the Binghamton Police Department in any way they can. “I speak for all of New York when I offer my prayers for the victims and families of this tragedy.”
For more information, go to CNN.
Authorities say at least 12 people may be dead in a shooting in Binghamton, New York. That's according to Bob Joseph of radio station WNBF, which is located just a few blocks from the American Civic Association building where the incident is taking place. The suspect is described as an Asian male. Joseph said the suspect apparently blocked the building's rear exit when he arrived.
Four dead, more than a dozen wounded in Binghamton, New York, shootings, law enforcement official tells CNN.
Statement from New York Governor David Paterson:
“This is a tragic day for New York. While the situation is still developing and details are being gathered, we do know that a gunman entered the American Civic Association in Binghamton this morning and that there are fatalities. We are monitoring the situation and I have directed the State Police to assist the Binghamton Police Department in any way they can. “I speak for all of New York when I offer my prayers for the victims and families of this tragedy.”
For more information, go to CNN.
Authorities say at least 12 people may be dead in a shooting in Binghamton, New York. That's according to Bob Joseph of radio station WNBF, which is located just a few blocks from the American Civic Association building where the incident is taking place. The suspect is described as an Asian male. Joseph said the suspect apparently blocked the building's rear exit when he arrived.
Four dead, more than a dozen wounded in Binghamton, New York, shootings, law enforcement official tells CNN.
IUP Student Shot, Hospitalized
An Indiana University of Pennsylvania student was shot in the stomach outside an off-campus Indiana bar this morning and was taken into surgery several hours ago.
Justin D. McCoy, 21, of Springfield, Va., is in fair condition at Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown.
For the full story, go to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Justin D. McCoy, 21, of Springfield, Va., is in fair condition at Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown.
For the full story, go to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
No Answers a Year Later
It was one year ago today that 10 members of one family, and a family friend, died in a house fire in Brockway – and investigators still don't know what caused the blaze.
Brockway Fire Chief Kris Benson told Brockway Borough Council Thursday night that he met with the fire marshal last week and there is still no answer.
Benson told council members that everyone may have to come to the realization that they may never get a definitive answer.
Brockway Fire Chief Kris Benson told Brockway Borough Council Thursday night that he met with the fire marshal last week and there is still no answer.
Benson told council members that everyone may have to come to the realization that they may never get a definitive answer.
Dad to Plead Guilty in Connection
to Teen Drinking Party
The attorney for a father accused of hosting a teen drinking party that included a high school cheerleader dancing – in uniform – on a stripper pole says his client will plead guilty to some of the charges.
36-year-old Steven Russo of Bethlehem has agreed to plead guilty to selling or furnishing alcohol to minors, endangering the welfare of children and corruption of minors.
As part of the deal, prosecutors dropped charges of intimidation of a witness and criminal conspiracy.
Court documents say that a photo surfaced on Facebook showing a 16-year-old Freedom cheerleader drinking and pole dancing while another shows two underage girls kissing Russo.
For more on this story, go to the Allentown Morning Call.
36-year-old Steven Russo of Bethlehem has agreed to plead guilty to selling or furnishing alcohol to minors, endangering the welfare of children and corruption of minors.
As part of the deal, prosecutors dropped charges of intimidation of a witness and criminal conspiracy.
Court documents say that a photo surfaced on Facebook showing a 16-year-old Freedom cheerleader drinking and pole dancing while another shows two underage girls kissing Russo.
For more on this story, go to the Allentown Morning Call.
Easter Egg Hunt Postponed
The Bradford City Firefighters annual Easter Egg Hunt scheduled for Saturday has been postponed until April 11 because of the weather.
It will be at 11 a.m. at Callahan Park next Saturday.
It will be at 11 a.m. at Callahan Park next Saturday.
Police Say Man Didn't Like Sandwich, Attacked Fiancée
A Philadelphia-area man is being held on charges that he bit and slashed his fiancée in a rage over the way she made his meatball sandwich.
Superintendent John Reilly Jr. of the George W. Hill Correctional Facility says, "Wait until he gets a load of the prison food."
For the full story, go to the Philadelphia Daily News
Superintendent John Reilly Jr. of the George W. Hill Correctional Facility says, "Wait until he gets a load of the prison food."
For the full story, go to the Philadelphia Daily News
That's One Big Burger!
The West Michigan Whitecaps minor league baseball team is offering a 4,800-calorie cheeseburger on its ballpark menu that has been branded a "dietary disaster."
The four pound meal has five beef patties, five slices of cheese, nearly a cup of chili, Fritos, salsa, nacho cheese, sour cream and lettuce and tomato all on an eight inch sesame-seed bun.
For the full story, go to KVAL-TV.
The four pound meal has five beef patties, five slices of cheese, nearly a cup of chili, Fritos, salsa, nacho cheese, sour cream and lettuce and tomato all on an eight inch sesame-seed bun.
For the full story, go to KVAL-TV.
Bradford's Oil Industry on CNN
BRADFORD, Pa. (CNNMoney.com) -- Six months ago this oil town in Western Pennsylvania was booming. You couldn't find a worker to paint a house, let alone man a drill rig. The nearby oil fields buzzed with activity as high prices drove a production frenzy.
Now this boomtown's bustle is as quiet as the surrounding late-winter forest.
For the full story, including comments from Shawn Keane and Willard Cline, go to CNN.com.
Thanks to Pat Creighton!
Now this boomtown's bustle is as quiet as the surrounding late-winter forest.
For the full story, including comments from Shawn Keane and Willard Cline, go to CNN.com.
Thanks to Pat Creighton!
Zombies Getting Closer
Ten days ago we told you about the "Zombies Ahead" warning sign in suburban Philadelphia. Now Buffalo-area motorists are being warned. The "warning" on a construction sign outside of Canisius College on Main Street appeared Thursday morning.
Watch the video from WIVB-TV or read the story HERE.
Watch the video from WIVB-TV or read the story HERE.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Scarnati Aims to Restore Trust
"Without out doubt, there is no issue more important today. The No. 1 issue we have is restoring respect and trust back into the Legislature that we once had," said Scarnati, who is the Senate's president pro tempore and the state's lieutenant governor.
For the story, go to the Lancaster New Era.
For the story, go to the Lancaster New Era.
Creating a Better Community
By ANNE HOLLIDAY
WESB/WBRR News Director
The Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year says when you're trying to make changes, it doesn't matter how big you are. What matters is how dedicated you are.
American Refining Group CEO Harvey Golubock asked everyone at the chamber's annual meeting Thursday night to step back to 1997 – the year Harry Halloran bought the refinery from Witco.
"It was a frightening time," Golubock said. "The community was afraid and downtrodden. Closure of the refinery meant the loss of many high-paying jobs. Repercussions throughout the community would be felt far and wide."
But, he said, because small group of concerned businessmen was determined to not sit back and watch Bradford die – "That was then and this is now."
Since then, ARG has invested $50 million into the refinery and has bought three trucking companies and an oil production business.
"All this from a company that most of the industry thought would be closed in six months," Golubock said.
He said one well-respected consultant told him recently "he failed to consider when he predicted our demise that this was our only business -- that we had no choice but to fight for survival."
He says the creation of a sustainable business is due to the hard work and dedication of more than 325 employees and the support of the community."
"But that's not all that's been created in 12 years" in a "rural community faced with many challenges."
Golubock said that small group "chose not to dwell on these negative aspects but rather they focused on creating a community of which we can not only be proud, but one that's economically self-sustaining."
He pointed to the recent creation of the broadband loop by Zito Media, the successful operation of the Bradford Regional Airport, the new Army National Guard armory that will be the center of an industrial park and the continued work on Continental 1 (US Route 219).
Golubock also talked about the Bradford Master Plan that's "well underway;" the renovations of Old City Hall and the Seneca, Pennzoil and Hooker-Fulton buildings; Sam Sylvester's Option House; Jim McFarlane's flatiron building; and the buildings John Kohler has renovated.
He also noted the progress on Boylston Street and the third Leadership McKean class under the guidance of Dr. Livingston Alexander and Mike Glesk.
He added that the Tuna Valley Trails Association, under the direction of Rick Esch, has been described as a "model program for trails development in the state of Pennsylvania."
Golubock also talked about the changes at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford over the last 12 years, including the Sport & Fitness Center, Blaisdell Hall, the expanded Frame-Westerberg Commons, new dorms and classrooms and the chapel that's expected to be built this year.
He also talked about Bradford Regional Medical Center, the Allegheny-Bradford family of companies, the Bradford-Olean YMCA and the Zippo/Case Visitors Center.
"So there you have it – literally from A to Z," Golubock said. "And this is not all that's been accomplished."
He told the gathering that the next time someone asks "What has this community done for me?", paraphrase John F. Kennedy: What have you done for your community?
"Am I proud of Bradford? You bet I am," he said. "And I'm grateful for whatever small part I've been able to play in making this a better place for all of us
Even before Golubock began speaking about all the changes in the community, chamber executive director Diane Sheeley asked people to think about this: "Change is what you get when you give more than what is required."
Roseart Company received the small business of the year award. Kelly Platko thanked her late grandfather for starting the business and her parents – Ralph and Judy Rose – and her husband Mark for working to keep the business successful.
Crosby's is the large business of the year. Doug Galli, vice president and general manager of Reid Stores Inc., thanked all of the Crosby's employees. The managers of the Bradford and Lewis Run stores were at the event, and he said they are instrumental in the company's continued success.
Galli also thanked Jim O'Mara and Gayle Bauer who sold the company to Reid's. O'Mara still visits the stores every day.*
Mark Adams of State Senator Joe Scarnati's office and Brenda Dunn of State Representative Marty Causer's office presented the recipients with citations from the senate and house. Chamber vice president John Sullivan presented Roseart and Crosby's with commemorative knives from W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company.
*I can attest to that because I see him at the Jackson Avenue store often. (And I also like that he calls me "kiddo.")
WESB/WBRR News Director
The Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year says when you're trying to make changes, it doesn't matter how big you are. What matters is how dedicated you are.
American Refining Group CEO Harvey Golubock asked everyone at the chamber's annual meeting Thursday night to step back to 1997 – the year Harry Halloran bought the refinery from Witco.
"It was a frightening time," Golubock said. "The community was afraid and downtrodden. Closure of the refinery meant the loss of many high-paying jobs. Repercussions throughout the community would be felt far and wide."
But, he said, because small group of concerned businessmen was determined to not sit back and watch Bradford die – "That was then and this is now."
Since then, ARG has invested $50 million into the refinery and has bought three trucking companies and an oil production business.
"All this from a company that most of the industry thought would be closed in six months," Golubock said.
He said one well-respected consultant told him recently "he failed to consider when he predicted our demise that this was our only business -- that we had no choice but to fight for survival."
He says the creation of a sustainable business is due to the hard work and dedication of more than 325 employees and the support of the community."
"But that's not all that's been created in 12 years" in a "rural community faced with many challenges."
Golubock said that small group "chose not to dwell on these negative aspects but rather they focused on creating a community of which we can not only be proud, but one that's economically self-sustaining."
He pointed to the recent creation of the broadband loop by Zito Media, the successful operation of the Bradford Regional Airport, the new Army National Guard armory that will be the center of an industrial park and the continued work on Continental 1 (US Route 219).
Golubock also talked about the Bradford Master Plan that's "well underway;" the renovations of Old City Hall and the Seneca, Pennzoil and Hooker-Fulton buildings; Sam Sylvester's Option House; Jim McFarlane's flatiron building; and the buildings John Kohler has renovated.
He also noted the progress on Boylston Street and the third Leadership McKean class under the guidance of Dr. Livingston Alexander and Mike Glesk.
He added that the Tuna Valley Trails Association, under the direction of Rick Esch, has been described as a "model program for trails development in the state of Pennsylvania."
Golubock also talked about the changes at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford over the last 12 years, including the Sport & Fitness Center, Blaisdell Hall, the expanded Frame-Westerberg Commons, new dorms and classrooms and the chapel that's expected to be built this year.
He also talked about Bradford Regional Medical Center, the Allegheny-Bradford family of companies, the Bradford-Olean YMCA and the Zippo/Case Visitors Center.
"So there you have it – literally from A to Z," Golubock said. "And this is not all that's been accomplished."
He told the gathering that the next time someone asks "What has this community done for me?", paraphrase John F. Kennedy: What have you done for your community?
"Am I proud of Bradford? You bet I am," he said. "And I'm grateful for whatever small part I've been able to play in making this a better place for all of us
Even before Golubock began speaking about all the changes in the community, chamber executive director Diane Sheeley asked people to think about this: "Change is what you get when you give more than what is required."
Roseart Company received the small business of the year award. Kelly Platko thanked her late grandfather for starting the business and her parents – Ralph and Judy Rose – and her husband Mark for working to keep the business successful.
Crosby's is the large business of the year. Doug Galli, vice president and general manager of Reid Stores Inc., thanked all of the Crosby's employees. The managers of the Bradford and Lewis Run stores were at the event, and he said they are instrumental in the company's continued success.
Galli also thanked Jim O'Mara and Gayle Bauer who sold the company to Reid's. O'Mara still visits the stores every day.*
Mark Adams of State Senator Joe Scarnati's office and Brenda Dunn of State Representative Marty Causer's office presented the recipients with citations from the senate and house. Chamber vice president John Sullivan presented Roseart and Crosby's with commemorative knives from W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company.
*I can attest to that because I see him at the Jackson Avenue store often. (And I also like that he calls me "kiddo.")
What is Change?
Change is what you get when you give more than what is required.
~~Diane Sheeley
Executive Director, Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce
Think about it -- and think about the people you know who are giving more than required.
~~Diane Sheeley
Executive Director, Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce
Think about it -- and think about the people you know who are giving more than required.
Police Investigation Near Wilcox
Police have been investigating the Lockes Hill area of Wilcox for a week, but haven't said yet exactly what they're looking into.
State Police Information Officer Bruce Morris says there is nothing to report while they are still in the investigation stage, but they will release some information soon because of the "buzz" and rumors caused by the police presence.
Local, state and federal officials, including a state police forensics van, have been spotted in the area.
Along with marked state police cruisers, a truck with government plates and US Forest Service Department of Agriculture vehicles have been parked along Lockes Hill.
State Police Information Officer Bruce Morris says there is nothing to report while they are still in the investigation stage, but they will release some information soon because of the "buzz" and rumors caused by the police presence.
Local, state and federal officials, including a state police forensics van, have been spotted in the area.
Along with marked state police cruisers, a truck with government plates and US Forest Service Department of Agriculture vehicles have been parked along Lockes Hill.
Thompson Bill Would Help
Small Businesses, Distance Ed
Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, introduced legislation this week that will amend the Small Business Act by allowing third parties the opportunity to provide high-quality distance training and education to potential and existing entrepreneurs through the use of technology.
The Educating Entrepreneurs through Today’s Technology Act of 2009 (H.R. 1807), will particularly benefit rural communities, by enabling access through technology, the ability to utilize the resources of the Small Business Administration and the sixty-three Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) throughout the country.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and our rural communities,” said Thompson, a Member of the House Small Business Committee. “So while the Governor zeroed out funding in the state budget for the Community Education Councils, who supply critical services to both small businesses and distance education in areas of need, this legislation will allow access to federal resources by providing web based educational and training materials.”
At a Small Business Committee hearing this afternoon, Donna Kilhoffer, the Program Manager for the Community Education Council (CEC) of Elk and Cameron Counties testified to the need of additional resources to fulfill the council’s mission.
“Congressman Thompson’s legislation certainly has the potential to fill this void,” said Kilhoffer. “In Elk and Cameron Counties, we have small businesses and entrepreneurs who would greatly benefit, if able to access the resources of the Small Business Administration."
Continued Kilhoffer, “The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in our area. What is lacking is the opportunity and ability to tap into ‘the experts’. The resources of SBA, married with distance education technology appear to be the most logical, timely, and cost effective ways to bridge the gap between the need we have, and the extensive knowledge and resources at SBA’s disposal.”
The Community Education Council of Elk and Cameron Counties through partnership with industry, systems of higher education, and community institution is dedicated to the development and provision of affordable, accessible and quality advanced educational training and awareness programs for the citizens of Elk and Cameron Counties.
The Educating Entrepreneurs through Today’s Technology Act of 2009 (H.R. 1807), will particularly benefit rural communities, by enabling access through technology, the ability to utilize the resources of the Small Business Administration and the sixty-three Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) throughout the country.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and our rural communities,” said Thompson, a Member of the House Small Business Committee. “So while the Governor zeroed out funding in the state budget for the Community Education Councils, who supply critical services to both small businesses and distance education in areas of need, this legislation will allow access to federal resources by providing web based educational and training materials.”
At a Small Business Committee hearing this afternoon, Donna Kilhoffer, the Program Manager for the Community Education Council (CEC) of Elk and Cameron Counties testified to the need of additional resources to fulfill the council’s mission.
“Congressman Thompson’s legislation certainly has the potential to fill this void,” said Kilhoffer. “In Elk and Cameron Counties, we have small businesses and entrepreneurs who would greatly benefit, if able to access the resources of the Small Business Administration."
Continued Kilhoffer, “The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in our area. What is lacking is the opportunity and ability to tap into ‘the experts’. The resources of SBA, married with distance education technology appear to be the most logical, timely, and cost effective ways to bridge the gap between the need we have, and the extensive knowledge and resources at SBA’s disposal.”
The Community Education Council of Elk and Cameron Counties through partnership with industry, systems of higher education, and community institution is dedicated to the development and provision of affordable, accessible and quality advanced educational training and awareness programs for the citizens of Elk and Cameron Counties.
200th Alleged Child Predator
Arrested by AG's Office
HARRISBURG - Attorney General Tom Corbett today announced the arrest of more than 200 Internet predators since the creation of the Attorney General's Child Predator Unit in January 2005, including recent arrests in Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Altoona, Chambersburg, the Harrisburg area and New Jersey.
Corbett identified the defendants as:
Carlos Ramon Harrison, 35, 4660 Sycamore Grove Road, Chambersburg.
Timothy Edward Weidinger, 31, 416 Bach Ave., Greensburg.
William L. Marcus, 46, 5904 Coventry Way, Mount Laurel, NJ.
Timothy W. Senich, 61, 1112 Muldowney Ave., Pittsburgh.
Abraham Sarver, 22, 308 Pine Ave., Altoona.
Charles Aurelio Giuliani, 33, 79 Harvestview, Elizabethville.
Robert A. Barner, 46, 569 Chesterfield Court, Harrisburg
"The most recent arrests by the Child Predator Unit stretch from one end of Pennsylvania to the other," Corbett said. "They include men accused of traveling to meet children for sex, sending nude photos or videos to what they believed were young teens, and even allegedly purchasing a digital camera for a child - so that the girl could send nude photos of herself and friends."
Corbett said that in each of these cases, the predators believed they were communicating with 13- or 14-year old girls, though they were actually in contact with undercover agents from the Child Predator Unit who were using the online profiles of teens.
Corbett noted that the number of Internet predator arrests in Pennsylvania has escalated dramatically since the creation of the Child Predator Unit in 2005.
For more information, go to the attorney general's Web site.
Corbett identified the defendants as:
Carlos Ramon Harrison, 35, 4660 Sycamore Grove Road, Chambersburg.
Timothy Edward Weidinger, 31, 416 Bach Ave., Greensburg.
William L. Marcus, 46, 5904 Coventry Way, Mount Laurel, NJ.
Timothy W. Senich, 61, 1112 Muldowney Ave., Pittsburgh.
Abraham Sarver, 22, 308 Pine Ave., Altoona.
Charles Aurelio Giuliani, 33, 79 Harvestview, Elizabethville.
Robert A. Barner, 46, 569 Chesterfield Court, Harrisburg
"The most recent arrests by the Child Predator Unit stretch from one end of Pennsylvania to the other," Corbett said. "They include men accused of traveling to meet children for sex, sending nude photos or videos to what they believed were young teens, and even allegedly purchasing a digital camera for a child - so that the girl could send nude photos of herself and friends."
Corbett said that in each of these cases, the predators believed they were communicating with 13- or 14-year old girls, though they were actually in contact with undercover agents from the Child Predator Unit who were using the online profiles of teens.
Corbett noted that the number of Internet predator arrests in Pennsylvania has escalated dramatically since the creation of the Child Predator Unit in 2005.
For more information, go to the attorney general's Web site.
Merton Center Re-Dedicated
Paying tribute to its namesake, the Thomas Merton Center at St. Bonaventure University was rededicated during a special ceremony Wednesday. The Merton Center is home to the campus ministry team and offices for Mt. Irenaeus, Bona Buddies, the Warming House, the Franciscan Center for Social Concern, and the Journey Project. Located at the center of campus, it is a place where students gather for relaxing, cooking, socializing, mentoring and spiritual counseling.
“The beauty of what goes on here and flows out of here is a blessing,” said Robert Donius, vice president for University Ministries.
In a 1966 letter to a St. Bonaventure alumnus, Thomas Merton noted that, “St. Bonaventure represented one of the happiest times of my life.”
Merton, considered one of the most distinguished spiritual masters of the 20th century, taught English at what was then St. Bonaventure College in 1940 and 1941. As he revealed in “The Seven Storey Mountain,” Merton discerned his monastic vocation while he worked at St. Bonaventure.
Merton (1915-1968), a Catholic writer and Trappist monk, authored dozens of books that include poetry, personal journals, collections of letters, social criticism and writings on peace, justice and ecumenism.
During the rededication ceremony, Fr. Robert “Bob” Struzynski, O.F.M, a member of the Franciscan community at Mt. Irenaeus, gave the reflection “A Self-Reflection by the Thomas Merton Ministry Center.”
“His ideas of education and Saint Bonaventure’s ideas of education come together so beautifully,” Fr. Bob said.
Also as part of the rededication, a permanent photo display of Thomas Merton was installed in the center.
The structure was originally a maintenance building from its construction in the 1950s until 1972, when it began to be utilized by the campus ministry team.
To read Fr. Bob Struzynski's reflections, click HERE. (PDF)
(Photo provided by St. Bonaventure University)
New Bill Would Protect
Baked Food Sale Volunteers
Reacting to recent news reports that inspectors have cited churches and volunteer groups for selling baked goods that are not prepared on site, Senator Richard Kasunic (D-Fayette County) plans to introduce a bill that would exempt churches, volunteer fire companies and veterans’ organizations from the law.
Senator Kasunic says the controversy in western Pennsylvania has pitted families who have donated baked goods and other items at charitable events for generations against state Agriculture Department inspectors going strictly by the letter of the law.
He says the state inspectors recently cited a church organization in nearby Beaver County because parishioners baked pies at home rather than on-site.
In addition, a local city health officer recently stated at a public meeting that local churches or organizations serving food to the general public would need to comply with the law by obtaining a business license and submitting to surprise inspections.
Senator Kasunic says it’s important to fix the law because he does not want to discourage churches, volunteer fire and veterans’ groups from continuing to bake and prepare foods for events at their church or volunteer organization’s events.
“My bill protects a positive and worthwhile social and charitable function that is part of the fabric of Pennsylvania communities,” Senator Kasunic said. “I will work to rectify this law (Public Eating and Drinking Place Law of 1945) as soon as possible.”
The legislation is being drafted and should be introduced in the state Senate in the very near future.
Senator Kasunic says the controversy in western Pennsylvania has pitted families who have donated baked goods and other items at charitable events for generations against state Agriculture Department inspectors going strictly by the letter of the law.
He says the state inspectors recently cited a church organization in nearby Beaver County because parishioners baked pies at home rather than on-site.
In addition, a local city health officer recently stated at a public meeting that local churches or organizations serving food to the general public would need to comply with the law by obtaining a business license and submitting to surprise inspections.
Senator Kasunic says it’s important to fix the law because he does not want to discourage churches, volunteer fire and veterans’ groups from continuing to bake and prepare foods for events at their church or volunteer organization’s events.
“My bill protects a positive and worthwhile social and charitable function that is part of the fabric of Pennsylvania communities,” Senator Kasunic said. “I will work to rectify this law (Public Eating and Drinking Place Law of 1945) as soon as possible.”
The legislation is being drafted and should be introduced in the state Senate in the very near future.
Rendell, Unions Reach Agreement
Rolling furloughs for thousands of state workers would be avoided under a tentative agreement announced today between Governor Ed Rendell and the three largest Pennsylvania government employee unions.
For more information, go to the governor's Web site.
For more information, go to the governor's Web site.
Thompson Praises DiBerardinis
Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today, praised Secretary of Conservation and Natural Resources Mike DiBerardinis, on the House Floor for his six years of service to the Commonwealth, and his dedication to Rural Pennsylvania. Tomorrow is the Secretary’s last day at DNCR.
Transcript
Madam Speaker, I come to the floor today to honor a man that exemplifies public service.
A man that hails from the big city of Philadelphia, but who has had a profound impact on my rural district.
Secretary Mike DiBerardinis, has served the Rendell Administration and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with distinction for the past six years as the head of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, or DCNR.
And while I have only had limited interaction with the Secretary personally, his work on the Pennsylvania Wilds Initiative – a nature tourism program that encompasses my district – speaks volumes of his character and his dedication to rural Pennsylvania.
Under the Secretary’s leadership, DCNR has taken the PA Wilds from a concept to a budding program – highlighting the beautiful landscape and many attractions of central and northwestern Pennsylvania.
From hiking, to biking, backpacking, and skiing, the PA Wilds has it all.
In fact, this past summer, the Secretary was in my home town, breaking ground on the state’s first Nature Inn, in Bald Eagle State Park – adding yet another component to an already robust State Park System.
So while tomorrow is the Secretary’s last day at the helm, I want to say thank you.
Thank you for your service to rural Pennsylvania – your leadership and vision has made a lasting impression.
Thank you, Madam Speaker.
Transcript
Madam Speaker, I come to the floor today to honor a man that exemplifies public service.
A man that hails from the big city of Philadelphia, but who has had a profound impact on my rural district.
Secretary Mike DiBerardinis, has served the Rendell Administration and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with distinction for the past six years as the head of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, or DCNR.
And while I have only had limited interaction with the Secretary personally, his work on the Pennsylvania Wilds Initiative – a nature tourism program that encompasses my district – speaks volumes of his character and his dedication to rural Pennsylvania.
Under the Secretary’s leadership, DCNR has taken the PA Wilds from a concept to a budding program – highlighting the beautiful landscape and many attractions of central and northwestern Pennsylvania.
From hiking, to biking, backpacking, and skiing, the PA Wilds has it all.
In fact, this past summer, the Secretary was in my home town, breaking ground on the state’s first Nature Inn, in Bald Eagle State Park – adding yet another component to an already robust State Park System.
So while tomorrow is the Secretary’s last day at the helm, I want to say thank you.
Thank you for your service to rural Pennsylvania – your leadership and vision has made a lasting impression.
Thank you, Madam Speaker.
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