Anne's Arts & Activities Blog

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The commander of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard's 56th Stryker Brigade says the troops are still on target to be home in September. About 4,000 soldiers – including members of Charlie Company from the Bradford Armory – started their deployment at Camp Taji, Iraq, in February. During a conference call from Iraq, Colonel Marc Ferraro said despite an uptick in violence over the last couple of weeks, incidents are down considerably compared to a year ago. He said the Iraqi people do not support the insurgent groups and give information to the Army's tiplines. Ferraro said the U.S. soldiers have been working closely with the Iraqi Army and police, and that the army sometimes conducts operations independently of the American forces. The Iraqi police, on the other hand, still need help from the US soldiers, who are acting as police officers in many cases. He says they are teaching the Iraqis how to search vehicles, conduct traffic stops and do other police work. Among the other...

A Kane man has been charged with attempting to elude law enforcement following an incident on April 25 on the Allegheny National Forest. Forest Service law enforcement says 31-year-old Todd Rockwell was in the Kane Experimental Forest Area operating a non-street legal dirt bike. An officer attempted to stop the vehicle, but Rockwell passed a truck and fled at a high rate of speed. Rockwell stopped after about a mile. After police took him into custody, they learned his driver's license had been suspended for DUI and he was on probation in Forest County. Rockwell was turned over to Forest County Probation for violating the terms of his release and was then sent to Warren County Jail.

President Obama on Tuesday nominated a Mississippi state conservationsit as undersecretary of Agriculture, which means he would be in charge of the US Forest Service. Homer Lee Wilkes is a 28-year veteran of the federal Natural Resources Conservation Service Mike Anderson, a senior resource analyst with the Wilderness Society, says people shouldn't be concerned with Wilkes' lack of forestry experience. He says a number of undersecretaries have not had forestry backgrounds and have done an adequate job.

The latest addition to the Outpatient Services Center lobby at Bradford Regional Medical Center tells the story of nearly two years of effort, say hospital officials. On Thursday (May 7), the installation of BRMC's new Mission/Vision/Values statement was completed by Dan Stutzman (on ladder) and Shane Lather of FASTSIGNS®, Erie. Set just inside the main door, the art and words represent the Medical Center's new mission statement as adopted by BRMC's Board of Directors in 2007, along with detailed vision and values concepts, designed by a multidisciplinary hospital committee. The installation was completed during National Nurses Week, May 6-12. (Photo provided by BRMC)

On Monday, May 11, PennDOT will post weight limit restrictions on the Genesee River Bridge on Route 449 in the village of Genesee, Potter County. Effective Monday, PennDOT will post the bridge for a 30-ton weight limit for single vehicles and a 40-ton weight limit for combination vehicles. The Genesee River Bridge spans the west branch of the Genesee River along Route 449, near the New York state line. Vehicles that exceed the posting limit will need to use an alternate route. The decision to restrict the weight limit of the bridge was the result of a recent inspection. The Genesee River Bridge was built in 1924, is 71 feet long and carries an average of 2,020 vehicles per day. The posting will remain in place until repairs can be made.

Once again, Upstate New York is taking it on the chin. The Governor and legislative leaders, all from New York City, came up with this scheme that bails out the New York City subway system to the tune of billions of dollars, but fails to fund our five-year capital plan for upstate roads and bridges. These issues always were coupled together in the past to ensure equity and fairness between upstate and downstate. We need our highways and bridges fixed because of the impact on our economy and quality of life. I voted against the MTA bailout because it is another assault on our economic recovery. Like the disastrous state budget, the MTA deal was negotiated in secret by three men from New York City. Property and utility taxes are killing small businesses and the cost of living is making it unbearable for families throughout upstate communities. We need open, accountable government that will focus on revitalizing all of our state, not just one region. ~~Senator Cathy Young

Washington, D.C. – Senator Arlen Specter (D-Pa.), who has served on the Senate Judiciary Committee since he was elected in 1980, will receive the gavel to the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Drugs from Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). “I am pleased to serve as Chairman of the Crime and Drugs Subcommittee and I thank my colleagues, Assistant Majority Leader Durbin and Judiciary Chairman Leahy and Majority Leader Reid in particular, for the opportunity,” Senator Specter said. “My commitment to the issues of criminal justice, my lengthy experience on the Judiciary Committee, and my background as District Attorney of Philadelphia make me prepared for the hard work ahead on this active subcommittee. Among other things, I look forward to tackling issues of jail sentences for white collar crime like Medicare and Medicaid fraud, the crack-powder cocaine sentencing disparities, tough sentencing for career criminals and realistic rehabilitation for inmates who will be returning to soci...

McKean County has been awarded $15,156 in federal funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). This award will supplement emergency food and shelter programs in McKean County. The selection was made by a National Board that is chaired by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency and is comprised of representatives from health and human service agencies across the country. The United States Congress appropriates funds annually to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas nationally. The local board, made up of representatives from McKean County, will determine how the additional funds will be distributed. Local agency representation includes The Salvation Army, McKean/Potter Counties Chapter of the American Red Cross, United Way of the Bradford Area, Catholic Charities, Ministerial Association and the YWCA of Bradford. Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local organizatio...

CLEARFIELD – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT/District 2) issues the following update for the Route 219, McKean County/Bradford Bypass project. This update is for the week of May 11. Contractor on the $28.1 million project is Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. The project extends from just north of the city of Bradford in Pennsylvania to the New York State line. All work is weather and schedule dependent and can be subject to change. The following work schedule is for the week of May 11: · Northbound and southbound traffic are traveling in the northbound lanes, separated by concrete barrier from Forman Street to north of Hillside Drive. · Southbound ramps at the Foster Brook interchange are closed. Traffic is to follow the posted detour. · Contractor is working on southbound reconstruction by removing existing roadway from the New York state line heading south. · Contractor is working on southbound bridges. Work includes expansion dam replacements, steel...

HARRISBURG - State Rep. Matt Gabler (R-Clearfield/Elk) has endorsed the Energize PA energy plan, a product of the House Republican Policy Committee, over Gov. Ed Rendell's proposal to add a new severance tax to natural gas drilling operations in Pennsylvania. Gabler feels a new tax would make it less attractive for natural gas drilling companies to expand their operations in the commonwealth, leading to fewer job opportunities for Pennsylvania workers. "Instead of slapping new taxes on a potential new industry and Pennsylvania consumers as the Governor proposes, the Energize PA plan promotes energy production, economic development, and lower home heating costs for Pennsylvanians," said Gabler. "It would allow the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to lease out 390,000 acres of state forest land over three years to private companies for Marcellus Shale natural gas exploration. The plan only opens state forest lands to potential drilling, not state gam...

BRADFORD, Pa. – Allegheny National Forest Bradford District Ranger Anthony Scardina will be the featured speaker at the buffet breakfast hosted by the Allegheny National Forest Vacation Bureau to commemorate National Tourism Week. The event will start at 8 a.m. May 14 at the Barrel House Restaurant & Tavern in Lantz Corners at the intersection of U.S. Route 219 and U.S. Route 6. Scardina will talk about recreation and tourism possibilities on the Allegheny National Forest. “This is a chance for all of us to celebrate what we have here and what we can offer people who travel from outside McKean County,” Executive Director Linda Devlin said. Tourism is the second largest industry in Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania is the fourth most visited state in the country. The Allegheny National Forest Vacation Bureau promotes tourism within McKean County and the Pennsylvania Wilds. In addition to the breakfast, there will be a “brochure swap” where current members, and potential members of the V...

Everything was coming up roses - and other potted plants - at Bradford Regional Medical Center Thursday during a special Mothers' Day sale. Making a selection is BRMC Respiratory Therapist Larry Barrile, with Bradford Hospital Auxiliary Executive Director Virginia Hauser. Proceeds from the annual flower sale benefit Bradford Hospital Foundation's Ruth Barrus Prince Memorial Rose Fund, a fund established in memory of the mother of Coleen Farr of BRMC's Surgical Services Department. For more information on Foundation funds, log onto www.brmc.com . (Photo provided by BRMC)

Former Pennsylvania Governor and Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge has decided he won't run for senate next year. Ridge's statement says he is enormously grateful for the confidence my party expressed in me, the encouragement and kindness of my fellow citizens in Pennsylvania and the valuable counsel I received from so many of my party colleagues." Ridge also said, "To those who believe that the Republican Party is facing challenges, they are right. To those who believe the Democratic Party is without its own difficulties, they are wrong. No one party has a monopoly on all of the answers." Quinnipiac University pollster Clay Richards recently said Ridge is probably the only Republican who could give new Democrat Arlen Specter a run for his money. To read Ridge's statement, go to pa2010.com .

Thanks to Kristina Luzzi for passing this along. And, I agree, Kelly Platko did a wonderful job organizing this exhibit.

Former Philadelphia Phillies manager Danny Ozark, who led the team to three consecutive National League East titles in the late 1970s, has died at his home in Florida. He was 85. He was named manager of the Phillies on November 1, 1972, and was named Associated Press Manager of the Year in 1976 after leading the Phillies to a 101-61 record. Ozark had a 594-510 record in seven seasons in Philadelphia. For more on this story, go to Phillies.com .

National Nurse’s Week is May 6-12 each year. It ends on May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday. Many consider Nightingale the founder of modern nursing. The theme for Nurse’s Week this year is “Nurses: Building a Healthy America.” This theme reflects the commitment nurses make every day for their patients, their communities and their country in building a healthy America for the public they serve. There are nearly 2.4 million registered nurses in the United States. According to projections released from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses will experience the largest projected job growth in the years 2002 through 2012. There are also 531 million licensed practical & vocational nurses. Often described as an art and a science, nursing is a profession that embraces dedicated people with varied interests, strengths and passions because of the many opportunities the profession offers. Pam Bray, RN, Senior Leader of Patient Care/Director of Nur...

Listen now: WESB News Review for May 6, 2009

The Tuna Valley Trail Association hopes to have another trail added to the system by the end of the summer. Rick Esch of the Trail Association was on Wednesday's LiveLine talking about the South Trail that runs from Owens Way to Lewis Run. He says the trail will use the abandoned Erie Railroad grade that was "kindly provided by to the Trail Association by Minard Run Oil." The association received a grant to build the trail and it should go to for bid shortly. They hope to have it finished this summer. Esch said, complimentary to that will be a trailhead at the Penn Brad Oil Museum on South Avenue. That project is getting ready to out to bid, he said. The association hopes the trailhead will be under construction by late summer or early fall. If you haven't trekked all the trails yet – you can do that and help the local chapter of the Red Cross at the same time. Trekking the Tuna Trails starts May 15 and runs through August 15. For more information on that, go to mparc...

More than 250 athletes competed in the 34th annual McKean County Zippo/Special Olympics Track Meet Wednesday at Kane Area High School. This event is the qualifier for the state games being held June 4, 5 and 6 in State College. The athletes will learn later this month who will participate in the state competition. To listen to a report from Correspondent Mike Walter, click HERE .

The House today approved a welfare reform bill sponsored by Rep. Dave Reed (R-Indiana) that would prohibit the use of welfare and child support payments to purchase alcohol. “Welfare dollars should not be used to purchase alcohol,” Reed said. “We always have to remember, one person’s welfare dollar started out as another person’s tax dollar. That taxpayer deserves to know that they didn’t go to work and pay their taxes so that a welfare recipient could go out and buy a bottle of alcohol.” Reed’s legislation – House Bill 74 – would prevent state liquor stores and beer distributorships from accepting electronic benefit cards (EBTs), which are part of the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare’s (DPW) cash assistance and food stamp programs. “Every welfare dollar that is used to purchase alcohol is another dollar that isn’t available to help someone truly in need,” Reed said. “Welfare programs should be aimed at providing basic necessities, such as food and clothing, for people who a...

U.S. Representative Glenn `GT’ Thompson on Tuesday joined his colleagues in the American Energy Solutions Group in a public summit to oppose what he called "the Democrat’s misguided national energy tax," called Cap and Trade. “The truth behind the cap and tax plan is that it will lead to more taxes, fewer jobs, and more government intrusion,” said Thompson. “It won’t just raise the price of gas at the pumps and increase our home heating and cooling bills—but it will increase the cost of every product and service on which we rely.” Testifying at the summit, Dr. Gabriel Calzada Alvarez of King Juan Carlos University in Madrid, Spain, denied that green jobs in his country had been a success story as President Obama has suggested. Calzada said that 2.2 jobs were lost for every one green job created. The price of energy in his country has gone up 31 percent and the system has been unreliable with blackouts leading some producers to move their plants to other countries. Spain’...

HARRISBURG -- The State Senate today approved a fiscally responsible budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2009-10 that cuts spending and includes no new taxes, according to Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Senator Jake Corman (R-34). Corman said Senate Bill 850, which now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration, reflects the serious economic challenges Pennsylvania faces – rather than putting off difficult decisions that could only further exacerbate the fiscal crisis. "As we work to adopt a state budget, we must do the very same thing that families and businesses do during tough economic times – prioritize our spending and make difficult but necessary cuts," Corman said. "With revenues expected to come in nearly $3 billion below projections for this year, the prudent course is to plan for similar conditions next year. We all certainly hope the economy will turn around, but it is fiscally irresponsible to consider any spending plan that relies on unreal...

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today briefed members of the General Assembly on the state’s response to the outbreak of 2009 Novel A/H1N1 flu and emphasized the need for the public to continue to take steps to prevent its spread. “In addition to the state’s first confirmed case that was reported on Sunday, there are now 18 probable cases in 11 Pennsylvania counties – a number that is certain to change,” said Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Everette James. “While this is not cause for alarm, it is a reminder that we must continue to be watchful and prepared.” James noted that the Department of Health is being equipped to perform the same tests that are run by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which will enhance the state’s ability to more quickly confirm new cases. The department has also received its portion of the national anti-viral strategic stockpile, but it will be kept in reserve until it is needed, James added. “The stockpile will be di...

The deadline to register for the Bradford Area Town Wide Garage Sale is Friday, May 8th. Registration forms for the event are available at the Main Street Mercantile, Main Street, Bradford, for individuals and groups who wish to be a part of the event. There is a fee to participate. Participants will receive a yard sign and will be included in the map that will be distributed throughout the area during the week 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.

The annual North Tier League Championships in Track & Field will be held Friday at Smethport High School. The event starts at 4 p.m. and will go until about 9:30 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for students. Schools competing will be Smethport, Port Allegany, Otto-Eldred, Coudersport, Cameron County, Northern Potter, Oswayo Valley and Sheffield.

The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) received a four-star rating (out of a possible four stars) for sound fiscal management from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent evaluator of charities. This rating, the second four-star rating in a row for WPC, was based on the Conservancy’s demonstrated ability to efficiently manage and grow its finances. “Only 19% of the charities we rate have received at least two consecutive four-star evaluations, indicating that the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way, and outperforms most other charities in America,” said Ken Berger, President and Chief Executive Officer of Charity Navigator. “This ‘exceptional’ designation from Charity Navigator differentiates the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust,” Berger said. Charity Navigator applies data-driven analysis to the charitable sector, using a method that has b...

Washington, D.C. – Senator Arlen Specter today issued the following statement regarding Committee Assignments: “Senator Reid assured me that I would keep my committee assignments and that I would have the same seniority as if I had been elected as a Democrat in 1980. It was understood that the issue of subcommittee chairmanships would not be decided until after the 2010 election. Some members of the caucus have raised concerns about my seniority, so the caucus will vote on my seniority at the same time subcommittee chairmanships are confirmed after the 2010 election. I am confident my seniority will be maintained under the arrangement I worked out with Senator Reid. I am eager to continue my work with my colleagues on the various committees on which I serve and will continue to be a staunch and effective advocate for Pennsylvania’s and the Nation’s priorities.”

A Ripley, New York, man is accused of threatening his neighbors with a loaded shotgun, which prompted the lockdown of Ripley Central School. Chautauqua County Sheriff's Deputies say 52-year-old George Bazzle was working outside at his home and got angry because of ongoing disputes with neighbors. His wife brought him his loaded gun then he allegedly walked around the sidewalk with the gun screaming profanities. Bazzle was arrested without incident and taken to Chautauqua County Jail on $1,000 bond.

State Attorney General Tom Corbett has filed a consumer protection lawsuit against an Erie man whose business allegedly deceived consumers about guaranteed credit card offers that would help people who have bad credit. Richard Wood, doing business as New Card Services placed ads in newspapers across the state offering credit cards with a $7,500 limit, adding that approval was guaranteed and bad credit was OK. According to the lawsuit, consumers who sent order forms to the company did not receive credit cards. They were sent a list of banks and businesses that issue cards. They were also told that no refunds would be issued unless all the companies on the list rejected them. But the refund requests had to be submitted within 30 days, which gave consumers little chance of qualifying for the refund. For more information, go to the attorney's general Web site .

A Bradford man has pleaded guilty to robbing the Sugar Creek store in Olean in September of last year. Kyle Grandinetti supplied an unloaded .357 Magnum to a co-defendant who displayed the weapon during the robbery. Grandinetti will be sentenced July 20. His co-defendants are James Baribeau, and Benjamen Trumbull

A Chautauqua County man accused of killing his stepfather has pleaded not guilty. 20-year-old Daniel Hyers is charged with second-degree murder for allegedly killing 51-year-old Dean Nagel on September 9 in Nagel's home. Nagel was shot in the head multiple times. After a day-long search in Chautauqua and Erie counties, Sheriff Joe Gerace spotted Hyers walking down the street and arrested him. Hyers is in Chautauqua County Jail in lieu of $250,000 bail.

A Johnstown man has died from injuries he suffered in a crash Saturday night in Sheffield. Russ Gore was a passenger in a pickup truck driven by Ronald Gore of Belleville. The vehicle was hit by an SUV driven by a 17-year-old boy from Warren. The truck spun around, hit a utility pole and flipped onto his side. Russ Gore was trapped inside the truck and had to be freed using the Jaws of Life. He was taken to Hamot Medical Center, where he died. Neither driver was hurt. Police did not release the name of the 17-year-old. An investigation is continuing.

The economic situation in Elk County keeps getting worse. C.G. Electrodes has temporarily shut down. The plant closed in late April, but is expected to reopen in July. The company makes electrodes used during the steel-making process. Elk County's unemployment rate is nearly 14 percent. Only Cameron County's unemployment rate is higher in the state. The downturn in the auto industry has hit the counties hard because the powdered metal and steel industries -- prevalent in Elk County -- are closely related to the auto industry.

From left is Kristina Luzzi of American Refining Group, Shane Oschman, president of the Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce, and Kelly Platko of Roseart look over one of the pieces that are part of the Oil 150 display at KOA Speer art gallery at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Tuesday. Luzzi and Platko, who organized the show which was comprised of oil memorabilia, are members of Bradford's Oil 150 committee. This was one of the first major events to kick off the 150th anniversary of the discovery of oil. This was also the Business After Hours event sponsored by the Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce. Luzzi and Platko will be on the LiveLine on May 12 to talk about this and other Oil 150 events. ( Photo by Sandra Rhodes, ANFVB )

Listen now: WESB News Review for May 5, 2009 .

An oversized load on Route 6 pulled live power lines onto a house and the road between Port Allegany and Smethport at around 3:40 this afternoon. The house is near the Jehovah's Witness Hall. Traffic in the area was being re-routed.

$2.5 million dollars of federal stimulus money will go toward fixing I-86 between Randolph and Cold Spring. Another $1.4 million dollars will go toward resurfacing Route 219 from Seneca Junction to the Salamanca City line, and Broad and Clinton streets in Salamanca from Route 353 to Wildwood Avenue. The projects are expected to be finished this summer.

Schools in the Bemus Point district reopened today after being closed Friday and Monday because a male student at the junior-senior high school had swine flu. The Centers for Disease Control did confirm that the boy had swine flu. The schools and all the school buses in the district have been disinfected. One of the student's parents was also tested for swine flu, but the test came back negative. Eleven other people who had contact with the family did not get sick.

PA CleanWays will hold the first Unwanted Medication Collection Program at the Bradford Regional Medical Center on Saturday, May 16th, 2009 from 8AM to Noon. Residents of McKean and neighboring counties are asked to empty their medicine cabinets and submit all their unwanted medications to the North Bennett Street or the new entrance of the Bradford Hospital. This is an excellent opportunity to dispose of these materials safely, protecting our water resources and our young people. Volunteers are also still needed to help out with this event. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Heather McKean at the McKean County Conservation District at 814-887-4003 or Jim Clark at the Penn State Extension Office at 814-887-5613 to sign up. Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce.

Albany is telegraphing a message to potential investors that Upstate New York is now closed for business. We’ve kept and added thousands of new jobs in my Senate district through the Empire Zones program. Now is not the time to use our employers as pawns to fill budget loopholes. This budget plan is the worst fiscal disaster in our state’s history and does nothing to stimulate the economy or grow more jobs in upstate New York. We need to invest and build upon the success of the Empire Zone program which has generated billions of dollars in new investment and created thousands of new jobs for our region. I urge the Governor and lawmakers to do the right thing and rectify this problem before it is too late and businesses close up shop for good. You can read a letter to Governor David Paterson from Young and other Senate Republicans HERE . (PDF)

The Senate Appropriations Committee today approved Senate Bill 850, a $27.3 billion state budget for Fiscal Year 2009-10, according to Committee Chairman Senator Jake Corman (R-34). "Senate Bill 850 reflects and responds to Pennsylvania's tough economic climate. The fact that state revenues came in nearly $1 billion below estimate in April shows that Pennsylvania's economy hasn't improved and that we are facing a potential total shortfall of $2.9 billion or higher by the end of the current fiscal year," Senator Corman said. "Taking that into account, we developed a budget for Fiscal Year 2009-10 that looks to the long-term future of Pennsylvania and considers the Commonwealth's economic vitality in 2015 and 2020, not just 2010." During a milder recession in the early 1990s, Pennsylvania experienced a similar catastrophic revenue shortfall when the Commonwealth amassed a billion dollar deficit and, in response, raised taxes by $3 billion. That respons...

New York Governor David Paterson has issued an executive order banning state agencies from buying bottled water. Speaking to a group of environmentalists in Albany, Paterson said while the water in the bottles is pure, the bottles are no friend to the environment. The ban applies only to single-serve water bottles used by agencies within the executive branch of government. Employees in the legislative and judicial branches and the state university system can still drink water out of anything they want to. Read Paterson's executive order HERE .

A judge has set bond for the Erie woman in prison for swinging her infant at her boyfriend during a fight in 2006. 29-year-old Chytoria Graham was sentenced in 2007 to 5 to 10 years in state prison. Today, the judge set bond at $20,000. Her family says they will try to raise the money so Graham will be free while she appeals her conviction and sentence to state superior court. The bond request came after the judge's decision on bond in the case of Teri Rhodes, the former Mercyhurst College student sentenced to 9 to 18 years in state prison for suffocating her newborn daughter. She's free on $25,000 cash bond as she appeals her sentence.

A Chautauqua County man is in jail after taking sheriff's deputies on a chase and threatening them early this morning. 23-year-old Christopher Perina of Forestville had been threatening to harm himself when police found him at around 4:15 a.m. They talked with him by way of cell phone until around 8 a.m., during which time he threatened to harm officers and himself if anyone got near him. He then drove his vehicle through a field and a yard to get around a police perimeter and led police on a 10-minute chase through area roads. The chase ended in a grape vineyard. He was charged with unlawful fleeing a police officer, reckless endangerment and numerous other charges. He was arraigned on these and unanswered charges from a prior similar incident and sent to jail on $50,000 bail.

State Rep. Lawrence Curry, D-Montgomery/Phila., welcomes fourth graders from Glenside Elementary School and their teachers to the state Capitol May 5 to witness the House of Representatives pass H.B. 621, which would designate the Eastern Box Turtle as Pennsylvania's official reptile. The students originally proposed the legislation as a class project aimed at saving the species, whose numbers are declining in Pennsylvania. The bill now moves on to the state senate. ( Photo provided by House Democratic Communications )

HARRISBURG-Two days before co-chairing a House Republican Policy Committee hearing focusing on protecting private property rights of oil producers and other job-creating industries located in Allegheny National Forest, Rep. Kathy Rapp (R-Warren/Forest/McKean) successfully amended legislation (House Bill 689), which provides incentives for school districts to construct cleaner and more energy-efficient buildings, to ensure that all Pennsylvania wood products are eligible for tax credits and other exemptions under the Green Building Standard. "It is counter-productive for government to adopt any rating system promoting environmentally friendly building that openly discriminates against Pennsylvania wood products, which are arguably the greenest, least environmentally harmful and most renewable natural resources available," said Rapp. "Without this amendment, wood products produced by Pennsylvania timber companies independently certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiati...

BRADFORD, Pa. – Two students from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford have received the James D. Guelfi Award in Communications for their work in broadcast communication and public relations. This year’s recipients are Alex Davis, a sophomore public relations major from Emporium, and Stephanie Petchel, a senior broadcast communication major from Beaver Meadows. They were honored at a reception held last month Davis was nominated for the public relations award by Tim Ziaukas, associate professor of public relations, for his work with The Source as editor. “Alex has brought a professionalism and a commitment to his work on the school newspaper that has begun a transformation of The Source. He is a great editor, a leader and a worthy Guelfi scholar,” Ziaukas said. Jeff Guterman, chairman of the Division of Communication and the Arts and director of the broadcast communications program, selected Petchel for her excellent senior leadersh...

Aside from honoring this year's Red Feather recipients, the United Way of the Bradford Area also introduced its new executive director this morning.Board president Dan Manion made the announcement that longtime United Way volunteer, and former Red Feather recipient Kelly Case will take over on June 1. Current executive director Kris Luther announced her resignation earlier this year. Bob and Mary Galey, and the associates of the Bradford Tops Market received Red Feather awards during this morning's breakfast. United Way to Go awards were presented to Jerry Johnson Jr. and, well, me. Pictured, former United Way board president Bob Marasco accepts the Red Feather Award on behalf of his stepfather and mother, Bob and Mary Galey, while Kelly Case looks on. In the photo provided by the United Way of the Bradford Area (L-R) are Joy Brocious (Tops), Michele Gangloff (Tops), Mandi Davis (United Way), Bob Marasco (Galey family), Mike Kearns (Tops) and Mark Davis (Tops).

Christopher Horton has pleaded guilty to opening valves on oil tanks and allowing more than 42,000 gallons of oil spill onto the Allegheny National Forest. In McKean County Court on Monday Horton said his father Andrew dropped him off near Snyder Brothers leases last August. He rode an ATV to the leases, where he opened the valves and smashed equipment. Thousands of fish and other aquatic life died because of the spill. About half a million dollars worth of damage was done to Snyder Brothers property. No sentencing date has been set for Christopher Horton. Andrew Horton will be sentenced July 1. The U.S. Attorney’s office is preparing to file charges against Christopher Horton in federal court.

By ANNE HOLLIDAY WESB/WBRR News Director The Bradford Mall, swine flu and the Derrick City reunion were among the topics discussed during a lengthy Foster Township supervisors meeting Monday night. Seaward Avenue resident Tom Perry asked if anything could be done with the mall to push the owners into doing something. Township solicitor Dick Mutzabaugh said if codes are being violated the owners could be cited, and he could give further advice when and if that happens. Township resident Jim Connolly mentioned the Bradford Master Plan, which calls for "cutting the building, more or less, in half" with the stream running between the two halves of the building. He said if the Office of Economic and Community Development could come up with grant money, and go to the owners saying they and the township want to work with them "and hand them some free money, maybe it would give them some incentive to get the mall … going." "Isn't the Bradford Mall the most valuabl...

Foster Township Supervisor Cary Kaber gave a few township residents a tour of District Judge Rich Luther's new offices and courtroom in the township municipal building. For the past several months – including Monday night – the bid process for the work has been the topic of heated discussions during supervisors' meetings. On Monday, township solicitor Dick Mutzabaugh gave his opinion, which was reinforced by attorney George Atman III, that the renovations and improvements performed by township employees (including Kaber) are not subject to the competitive bidding requirement under the township code. Mutzabaugh said anyone who doesn't agree can have his/her lawyer contact him. The new offices are on the opposite side of the building from Luther's current offices and courtroom. Part of the township's rental agreement with the county for the offices includes the renovation work.

Listen now: WESB News Review for May 4, 2009 .

Nearly sixty volunteers came out to pick up litter and participate in the third annual Project Pride Clean up. Neighborhood residents, members of Bradford City police, fire and public works departments, the Parks Department and City Council all worked side by side cleaning up Bradford’s Project Pride Neighborhood and the Historic District. A citywide tire collection was also part of this year’s event. The tire crew was able to collect one thousand tires, saving residents $5,000.00. Enough tires were collected to fill an entire tractor trailer supplied by Buffalo Fuel Corp in conjunction with Lakin Tire and Firestone. This is the third year that tires have been disposed of free of charge and it proved to be the largest net to date. This service is provided by national sponsors of Keep America Beautiful in an ongoing effort to remove and recycle discarded tires in communities across the country. “Each year we find more and more tires as part of our effort. It is amazing to see the n...

From the Potter County Education Council: The Executive Director from the Potter County Education Council and other Community Education Council Directors received a warm reception from their legislators in Harrisburg April 28-29, but the state’s revenue shortfall continues to cast concern over CEC funding for 2009-10. “Our legislators firmly believe in the need to continue delivering education and training opportunities to rural Pennsylvania, but it remains to be seen whether that need will carry the day when the final budget decisions are being made,” said Helene Nawrocki, executive director of the Potter County Education Council. The CEC executive directors first met collectively with 10 state representatives, including Rep. Paul Clymer of Bucks County, minority Republican chairman of the House Education Committee who chaired the meeting. The CEC directors then met with eight state senators and staff members for two additional senators, in a meeting coordinated by Senator Joe Scarnat...

A Dunkirk man is accused of setting two picnic tables on fire in front of his house. 26-year-old Walter Lanneaux V also allegedly set a wooden storage unit on fire. The destroyed property belonged to the South Shores Motor Lodge on Route 5 in Dunkirk. Lanneaux is in Chautauqua County Jail awaiting further court action.

Coudersport state police are investigating a reported rape that happened on April 26. An 18-year-old woman told them two people drove her to a camp along Route 872 in Wharton Township at 2:30 in the afternoon, raped her and drove her home. Police did not identify the suspects.

MEADVILLE – The Department of Environmental Protection has determined that Schreiner Oil and Gas Company has affected at least seven water supplies along Hedgehog Lane in Bradford Township, McKean County, and has notified the company of its responsibilities to those residents. Two of the water supplies were affected by methane and five supplies have iron and manganese above established drinking water standards. Schreiner has been actively drilling combination oil and gas wells in the area since last fall and did not establish background water quality in the area prior to drilling. Therefore, Schreiner is presumed responsible for restoring water supplies within 1,000 feet of the drill sites. Last week DEP also issued a notice of violation to Schreiner for failure to submit well records in a timely manner, the second notice of violation that the company has received regarding this issue. “On Thursday, we notified the affected residents that Schreiner will be taking measures to restor...

“Last night, we learned of the passing of Jack Kemp, who dedicated his life to public service, including nine terms representing Western New York in Congress. “Whether it was quarterbacking the Buffalo Bills to two American Football League Championships in the mid-sixties, serving as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President George H.W. Bush, or running for vice president in 1996, Mr. Kemp was a leader who passionately participated in our national debate. He epitomized Theodore Roosevelt’s ‘Man in the Arena,’ providing ideas and taking action on issues important to the Buffalo area, New York State and nation. “On behalf of all New Yorkers, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jack Kemp. Mr. Kemp will be forever linked to Western New York and we will remember his many years of dedicated service.”

HARRISBURG – Governor Edward G. Rendell today issued the following statement in response to the death of former Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Ralph Cappy: “I am shocked and saddened by the sudden death of Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Ralph Cappy. The Commonwealth has lost one of its finest public servants. “Justice Cappy led the Supreme Court in deciding issues that have had a significant impact on the lives of every citizen. It is not an exaggeration to say that actions taken under Ralph Cappy's leadership led directly to resolving Pennsylvania's medical malpractice crisis. Our system of justice and our entire Commonwealth are better due to his service. “He will be missed.” ~~~ HARRISBURG - Attorney General Tom Corbett issued the following statement on the death of former Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Ralph J. Cappy: "The sudden death of former Chief Justice Cappy is a terrible loss to his family, friends and colleagues, along with th...

Listen now: Midday News for May 5, 2009 .

Animal lovers, take note! The McKean County S.P.C.A. is offering something for everyone at its Rabies Clinic and Open House set for Saturday, May 9. Lots of activities will take place outside at the Glenwood Avenue Shelter, beginning at noon. Food will be plentiful, with sales of baked goods, along with hot dogs, chips, pop, and bottled water at tables outside the building. Other tables will house a silent auction, with numerous items of interest donated by local individuals and businesses. A 50-50 raffle will be held. “Buddy,” the Shelter mascot, is expected to put in an appearance. Lori Burkhouse, an SPCA Board member who is chairing the Open House, promises goodies for all age groups. “We have lots of food, a large array of sale and auction items, and even face-painting for the kids.” Pet items for sale will include homemade dog treats, toys, animal clothing, leashes and collars. People items available for purchase will in...

PennDOT posted a weight limit restriction today on the Phoenix Creek Bridge on Route 1005 (Phoenix Run Road) in Pike Township, Potter County. Effective today, May 4, PennDOT posted the bridge for a 5-ton weight limit. The Phoenix Creek Bridge is located on Route 1005, near the village of Sunderlinville. Vehicles that exceed the posting limit will need to use an alternate route. The decision to restrict the weight limit of the bridge was the result of a recent inspection. The Phoenix Creek Bridge was built in 1932, is 10 feet long and carries an average of 187 vehicles per day. The posting will remain in place until repairs can be made. PennDOT plans to begin repairs to the bridge in June.

Bemus Point schools are closed again today as a precaution while authorities continue to investigate the one remaining probable case of swine flu in the Chautauqua County area. The schools are expected to reopen Tuesday. In a news release, Christine Schuyler, Chautauqua County public health director, said swine flu has an incubation period of seven days when others can contract the illness. She said the last day the student was in school was April 27, so they feel confident that other students can be allowed back in school on Tuesday.

A 19-year-old from Tioga County is dead after falling into the spillway at Cowanesque Lake. Scott Beckett of Lawrenceville fell 50 feet from a rock ledge late Friday night or early Saturday morning. State police believe he climbed over a six-foot fence to get to a restricted area of the dam. They say the incident appears to be an accident, but they are continuing their investigation.

Pennsylvania Jarek Holjencin, Cameron County High School 6’ 170lbs. Wide Receiver, Safety Jarek plans to attend a four year college, either Mansfield University to play football or University of Pittsburgh Bradford. Jarek’s honors include: Defensive Player of the Year in Basketball, AML All-Star in football, District 9 Champions in Football and Baseball, Defensive Player of the Year, and is a Honor Roll Student. Jarek was asked why he would like to play in the Big 30 game and he said “To be part of a 35 year tradition that helps raise money for many charities throughout the communities of the Big 30.” Jareks biggest thrill came by winning the District 9 Championship and beating Coudersport twice in the same season. Matt Buck, Otto-Eldred high School 5’10” 160lbs. Split End, Strong Safety Matt plans to attend Slippery Rock University to Major in Physical Therapy. Matt’s honors include: Winning the Homecoming MVP, and is a honor Roll Student. Matt was asked why he would like...

By Josh Hatcher Bradford's "Biggest Loser" is 22 year old Justin Willoughby, who has reached an enormous milestone in his weight loss this week. Willoughby has lost 550 pounds. Forty-five of those pounds have been shed in the past year. "I made a resolution on January 1st to start a journey to lose 100 pounds by the end of the year, which will take me down to my goal," said Willoughby, who tipped the scale six years ago at 799 pounds. Within the first two years, Justin lost more than 200 pounds. "I have been working very hard, but to lose that initial amount of weight that I lost was only a miracle. You can't lose that kind of weight without some kind of hope and strength," Willoughby credits that source of hope to his faith, "I made a commitment to follow Jesus, and to trust Him to help me through this journey. Since that day, I've had a hope and a source of strength, and comfort, to get me through the times I want to indulge and over-eat...

The grand re-opening of the Olean Family YMCA Teen Center was on Saturday from 1-6 PM with over 100 area teens stopping by to check it out. Pizza was provided by Tasta Pizza, Dominos, 501 Café and Napoli. Abbott Welding, Community Bank, N.A., Olean Federal Credit Union, Café Grind and the Sports Locker provided prizes and balloons for the festivities. The Teen Center is located in the YMCA building on Wayne Street and will be open Mon – Fri from 3-9 PM for Y members and from 7-9 PM for the public. Pictured are members of the Teen Advisory Committee: L-R: Erin Zlockie, Leah Sitter, Sadie Bebko, Jeff Tang, Ahmad Munir and Andrew Moore. ( Photo courtesy of the Olean-Bradford Area YMCA )

By Sandra Rhodes Visitor & Member Services Allegheny National Forest Vacation Bureau Ca-chung, ca-chung, ca-chung … clang, clang, clang. The rhythmic sounds of a train pulling into station; the whoosh of a railcar speeding by. Those were the welcomed reunion of sounds that echoed through the Kinzua Bridge State Park. This time, instead of steam locomotives pulling up to the Kinzua Viaduct, it was a line of railroad motorcars – called speeders - that rolled in as rail traffic at the Viaduct increased dramatically Sunday morning. That was when members of the North American Railcar Operators Association continued the second part of a two-day excursion on the Knox & Kane Railroad. “We get to ride railroads we wouldn’t be able to otherwise,” said organizer Gary Shrey of New Freedom. The group also came to the Kinzua Bridge State Park in the fall. “It is beautiful. I like this area.” The group of 34 railcars took off from Kane at about 9 a.m. and arrived at the part before 11. On Sat...