FAW Highlighted in New Book

WARREN --­ In The Way of the Woods: Journeys Through American Forests, Linda Underhill explores some of America¹s most extraordinary forests, from proposed wilderness in the Allegheny National Forest (ANF), to the old-growth groves of Cook Forest State Park, to the ancient rainforests of Washington¹s Olympic Peninsula.

Pittsburgh native Underhill, a resident of Wellsville, New York and currently a visiting professor of English at Gettysburg College, spent several years visiting important forest areas from coast to coast in preparation for writing The Way of the Woods, recently published by Oregon State University Press.

For her chapter on the ANF, titled "Going Wild," Underhill augmented her research with a hiking trip with Kirk Johnson, executive director for Friends of Allegheny Wilderness (FAW) into the proposed addition to the Hickory Creek Wilderness Area in southern Warren County. FAW is a Warren-based non-profit organization seeking permanent protection for select portions of the ANF.

The proposed addition to the Hickory Creek Wilderness is a 1,780-acre area that encompasses the headwaters of East Hickory Creek, a state-designated Wilderness Trout Stream, and it contains a two-mile segment of the popular Tanbark Trail. It was first proposed for wilderness designation as part of the Eastern Wilderness Areas Act in 1974 by former Pennsylvania Senators Hugh Scott and Richard Schweiker.

In total, FAW has proposed that 54,460 acres of the ANF be designated as wilderness under the Wilderness Act of 1964 in their Citizens¹ Wilderness Proposal for Pennsylvania¹s Allegheny National Forest, published in 2003. During the U.S. Forest Service¹s recently completed Forest Plan revision, more than 6,800 of a total of 8,200 public comments specifically advocated for the Citizens¹ Wilderness Proposal.

"Skillfully weaving together scientific fact and philosophical reflection on the value of forests to the human spirit, The Way of the Woods is an eloquent plea for the protection of forests," said Lorraine Anderson, editor of Sisters of the Earth: Women¹s Prose and Poetry About Nature.

"Underhill¹s writing is clear, crisp literary journalism, moving with an understated grace as she covers specific types of forests, from rainforests to urban woodlands to the threatened hemlocks of Appalachia," said Keith Goetzman, senior editor at the Utne Reader.

The Way of the Woods is available through the publisher, via online booksellers such as Amazon.com and BN.com, and at bookstores. Underhill is also the author of The Unequal Hours: Moments of Being in the Natural World, published in 1999 by University of Georgia Press.

Pictured, a group of hikers from Friends of Allegheny Wilderness in the proposed Clarion River Wilderness Area in Elk County in the fall of 2005. The Way of the Woods author Linda Underhill is second from the right.
(Photo courtesy of Friends of Allegheny Wilderness)

Truck Traffic Concerns FT Resident

By ANNE HOLLIDAY
WESB/WBRR News Director

Truck traffic on Interstate Parkway is horrible, according to one area resident.

Deb Piganelli told Foster Township Supervisors during their meeting Monday night that the drivers don't seem to care about the other drivers on the road, or people walking along the road.

She said people walk along the road "all the time" and, now that summer's here, more children are out and people are driving to Allegany State Park by way of Interstate Parkway.

"This isn't just one incident," she said. "This is non-stop day and night. Two and 3 o'clock in the morning they are flying up there – six, eight trucks at a time."

Piganelli said she and her husband walk every night and "there are some nights we actually have to jump off into the side of the road, way into the grass, just to let them get by. And they don't seem to want to slow down whether you're walking or not. They don't even try to slow down."

Police Chief Jeff Wolbert said he has talked with representatives from the companies that own the trucks, and he will talk to them again.

Open burning was another topic.

Bill Moore asked again about the township's board of health, and whether the board will be addressing the issue of open burning.

Supervisor Chairman Bob Slike said three doctors -- Jill Owens, Richard Freeman and Anita Herbert -- are in the process of forming the board and a resolution may be put before the supervisors as early as next month to officially form the board of health.

Slike said open burning will be one of the issues put before the board once it's officially formed.

East Main Street resident Don Pistner told supervisors to be careful about adopting a burning ban ordinance.

His concern is that people would be more inclined to illegal dumping if there's a burning ban.

Meanwhile, Wolbert and Supervisor Chris Wolcott talked about some of the things that can – and can't -- be burned in a burn barrel or closed container. Wood, cardboard, paper products and brush and other non-toxic material may be burned.

Burning brush in an open area is allowed if the person has a permit. They are available at the township municipal building for free.

Supervisors also talked about recent water problems in some areas of the township.

Slike and Wolcott explained that the Department of Environmental Protection told them that supervisors can't do anything besides act as a liaison between residents, the drilling companies and DEP.

Residents can, however, contact DEP service representative Kim Yeakle at (814) 362-6839 with their concerns.

DEP said the companies are responsible for testing water wells before drilling. If they don't test, "they're completely responsible for supplying the same quality and quantity the residents previously had," Wolcott said.

Also Monday night, supervisors awarded a contract to Graham Landscaping for landscaping work in front of the municipal building. Ben Graham submitted the winning bid of $1,475. Other bidders were Kane Lawn & Garden at $1,580 and Hoffman Landscaping at $1,650.

'I Can Cope' at CCMH

The American Cancer Society and Patterson Cancer Care Center will co-sponsor a program for people with cancer and their family and friends. The program Nutrition and Cancer will be offered on Tuesday, July 14th from 11-1 PM at the Patterson Cancer Care Center located on the Charles Cole Memorial Hospital campus. Program Facilitator will be Jill Connelly, RD, LDN, Regional Dietitian - PA, Sweden Valley Manor, HCF Management, Inc.

The “I Can Cope” program offers people who are facing cancer, including patients, families and friends, an opportunity to interact with others having similar experiences and learn ways to cope with the challenges that arise from a cancer diagnosis in a supportive and caring environment.

The American Cancer Society I Can Cope program is a component of the American Cancer Society Cancer Resource Network – a free, comprehensive resource to help patients and their caregivers manage the impact of cancer on their lives through up-to-date cancer information.

For more information contact Patterson Cancer Care Center at 814.260.5555 or your local American Cancer Society at 1-888-227-5445 option 3. Registration is requested to ensure adequate class materials. This program is provided free of charge. Lunch provided.

For up-to-date cancer information twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

Prayer, Worship Services

A prayer and worship service is being held at 8 p.m. Monday through the summer at the mini-park on Fourth and Chestnut streets in Emporium.

The session includes prayers for Cameron County, local, state and national governments, as well as several social justice issues. Other requests are welcome.

More Money to Fight EAB in NY

The US Department of Agriculture has doubled the amount of funding it will provide to New York State to battle the spread of the emerald ash borer.

Senator Chuck Schumer says the funding has been boosted to $200,000.

The destructive beetle was found last month in Randolph, New York, and has already destroyed dozens of trees.

With the extra money, New York's Department of Environmental Conservation will be able to survey the state to determine the extent of the infestation, and create and enact a plan to fight the spread of the beetle.

Fireman Died of Natural Causes

A 28-year-old volunteer firefighter in Clarion County who collapsed and died at the scene of a fire early Monday morning apparently died of natural causes, and the fire is being considered suspicious.

Ryan Wingard of Strattanville collapsed at the scene of a rubbish fire and other firefighters' attempts at CPR were unsuccessful.

Strattanville fire chief Bill Stroup sasy Wingard complained to another firefighter of a headache right before he collapsed. He was pronounced dead at Clarion Hospital.

Clarion County District Attorney Mark T. Aaron says the fire is suspicious.

Sabinsville Man Dies in Crash

A Sabinsville man is dead following a crash in Tioga County Monday night.

Police say 31-year-old William Kurtz was a passenger in a pickup truck being driven by 28-year-old Laura Kio, also of Sabinsville.

Two girls, ages 6 and 9, were also in the car.

Troopers say Kio's vehicle went off the road and hit a parked flatbed truck.

They say Kurtz suffered severe head trauma and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Kio and the 6-year-old passenger are being treated for moderate injuries, and the 9-year-old is being treated for major injuries. Kio is being treated at Robert Packer Hospital and the children are being treated at Geisinger Medical Center.

Mickelson's Mom Has Cancer, Too

Six weeks after Phil Mickelson announced his wife had breast cancer, his mother was diagnosed with the disease and is scheduled for surgery Friday.

His wife, Amy, had surgery last Wednesday.

After the US Open, Mickelson said it was "highly unlikely" he would play the British Open, and said his schedule the rest of the year depended on his wife's battle with cancer.

Reminder:Kane Relay for Life on Friday

The Kane Relay for Life gets underway at noon Friday at Kane Area High School.

The survivor ceremony is at 7 p.m. The luminaria ceremony, sponsored by Zook Motors, is at 9 p.m.

The annual parade kicks off Relay Weekend at 6 p.m. Thursday on Fraley Street. Be sure to look for Scott Douglas and me in the Twin Tiers Action Van!

Futures Receives Highest Rating

Futures Rehabilitation Center’s vocational and activity programs have once again received the highest possible rating in a review by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare (DPW.)

Inspectors from the DPW’s western office spent two days reviewing the operation of the Center’s programs and found them to be in 100% compliance with various regulations, including provision of service, fire and safety practices and staffing.

The inspectors praised the dedication and professionalism of staff, the quality and variety of programs, satisfaction of participants and recent building improvements.

Futures’ president/CEO Bill Leven said, “Credit for such an outstanding licensing review belongs with the staff of Futures for their commitment and dedication to our mission and goals."

Futures programs undergo state licensing reviews each year. Compliance with regulations is required to qualify for funding through DPW.

Futures provides services to over 170 adults and students with disabilities. Vocational training, activity services and extended employment are offered at Futures’ Bradford facilities. Supported employment, community habilitation and school-to-work transition services are offered at community based sites.

Shriners Hospital Open for Now

The Erie Shriners Hospital and 5 others across the country will stay open for now.

Delegates at the national Shriners convention voted to keep all 22 Shriners Hospitals for Children open, but no decision on the hospitals' future is final until the convention ends Thursday.

Secret deliberations are conducted by the fraternal order and members are allowed to take up new proposals between now and the end of the convention. Delegates will now consider proposals to save the hospital system without closing facilities.

Shriners hospitals have offered free care since the first facility opened 87 years ago. Shriners say their endowment has fallen below $5 billion.

The operating budget for Erie Shriners' is about $14 million.

Bear in Ken-Mar Acres

A bear and her 5 babies made their way to Ken-Mar Acres Sunday night, and the mama bear injured a dog who got in between her and one of her cubs.

Foster Township Police Chief Jeff Wwolbert says the bears were in a dog kennel -- probably looking for food -- when the dog got too close to one of the cubs. He says the mother bear swiped at, and cut, the dog, who was taken to a veterinarian to be checked out.

He says the bears apparently made their way back to the woods.

Five Hurt, Horse Dies in Crash

Five members of an Amish family were hurt and their horse died when a suspected drunk driver hit their buggy last night near Knox.

An SUV driven by 20-year-old Brandon Breghenti hit the buggy as it was turning into a driveway. Three children – ages 2, 3 and 4 – and their parents were thrown from the buggy.

Police say Breghenti stopped at the scene and briefly stepped out of the SUV before getting back in and driving away.

He's in Clarion County Jail on $75,000 bail.

41-year-old Ruth Burkholder and the 2-year-old were seriously injured. 42-year-old Mark Burkholder and the other children suffered minor injuries.

Clarion Co. Fireman Collapses, Dies

A Clarion County firefighter is dead after collapsing while battling a small fire in Stattanville early this morning.

A pile of rubbish had been burning outside a house at around 4 a.m.

Fire Chief Bill Stroup says the 28-year-old volunteer firefighter was among a small crew that had been dispatched to put out the fire.

Stroup says the firefighter, who had been with the department for 8 months, said he wasn't feeling well, then he collapsed.

An autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death.

Blood Supply Critically Low

The Fourth of July weekend is usually one of the three worst weekends of the year for blood usage, and this year that was certainly true with extremely heavy blood usage by local patients in the last 3 days. The blood supply is just about depleted with type O Positive being extremely critically low. The situation is critical for local patients needing blood.

Community Blood Bank lab staff was called back from vacation early to test the last few units of blood that came in Thursday night, so there would be something to send to the hospitals.

"It will be tough to recover from," Says Dan Desrochers Director of Marketing at the Community Blood Bank, "It will take those donors who haven't been in since last summer's blood shortage to end this one."

Everyone is encouraged to attend the blood drive at ERHC in Saint Marys on Tuesday July 7th from 10-4p.m. behind the hospital in the Rehab center. No appointment is needed to save a life.

The Community Blood Bank is open at Union Square in Bradford, Thursday from 3:30 to 7:30pm and Saturday 9-1pm. No appointment is needed to save a life.

Lunch in the Square

Lunch in the Square will be held on Wednesday, July 8 at Veterans’ Square, Downtown Bradford from 11:30 am until 1:30 pm. Entertainment will be provided by the favorites “Toucan Jam.”

Participating restaurants include Chu Lee Gardens, The Grocery Stretcher, John Williams European Pastry Shop, The New Broaster, The Lighter Side, Cin Cin Biscotti, Dairy Queen and Dawgonit.

The ‘Lunch in the Square’ program is sponsored by The Downtown Bradford Business District Authority.

Scott Douglas and I will be there live, too. Stop by and say "hello!"

SPCA Lemon-Aid Update

From Kimberly Weinberg:

Thanks to everyone who supported the Lemon-Aid for the SPCA fundraiser by my daughter, Maddy (7 – in the middle), son, Preston (9 ½) and neighbor, Alex Safran (6 ½).

The children raised an amazing $728 to benefit the SPCA. And while the SPCA animals were visiting the stand, one of them was adopted!

The kids had a great time and are looking forward to delivering their money to the shelter.

Good job everyone!

Robert McNamara Dies at 93

Former Defense Secretary Robert McNamara, architect of U.S. war in Vietnam, has died at 93, according to his family, CNN reports. He was the eighth United States Secretary of Defense. McNamara served as Defense Secretary for Presidents Kennedy and Johnson during the Vietnam War from 1961 to 1968.

More from CNN.com.

Wikipedia

PACT Act Concerns Senecas

Seneca Nation officials are concerned about a bill making its way through Congress that they say would affect private cigarette retailers from mailing orders of cigarettes.

The PACT – or Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking – Act has passed the U.S. House of Representatives, is now in the Judicial Committee of the Senate, and is expected to pass this summer.

Richard Nephew, chairman the Seneca Tribal Council, says if it passes it could affect hundreds of employees, both Seneca and non-Seneca, if businesses lose sales that are currently handled by mail.

Numerous privately owned Seneca businesses take cigarette orders on the phone and Internet and mail them to customers.

More on the State Budget Battle

I couldn't resist showing you this quote from a story about the state budget that appears in the Philadelphia Inquirer: "My 8-year-old son will be relieved that his allowance is safe," said Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati (R., Jefferson), who compared Rendell to a snake-oil salesman.

For the full story, go HERE.

Michael Scarnati is the animal-petter at Scarnati's 2007 Kid Fest at Pitt-Bradford.

NY Senate Meets Briefly

The New York State Senate met Sunday – for three minutes.

The Senate has been at a standstill since June 8 when Republicans and two Democrats staged a coup against the Democratic conference. After one of the Democrats went back to his conference, the sides were split at 31 and can't decide who's in charge.

Governor David Paterson has said he will call the senators into session every day until they work out a power-sharing agreement.

Man's Death Ruled Homicide

The death of a 79-year-old Union Township man has been ruled homicide.

Raymond Goodwill Jr. was found dead on a couch Saturday morning. Erie County Deputy Coroner Korac Timon says Goodwill was hit in the head with a blunt instrument of some sort.

Investigators haven't determined what he was hit with, but Timon says a number of tools were scattered around the house and property and police removed some of them for processing.

He said there were no signs of forced entry into the home.

Shriners' Decision This Week

This is the week the Shriners decide whether they're going to close several hospitals, including the one in Erie.

The 135th Imperial Council Session began Sunday. The Shriners say they're forced to make a decision on closing the Erie hospital and five others because of increasing costs and a drop in donations.

A decision is expected to be announced Thursday.

Obituary:Dawn P. Campbell

Dawn P. Campbell, 84, formerly of 1253 East Main St., died Friday, July 3, 2009, in the Bradford Ecumenical Home.

Born August 14, 1924, in Bradford, she was a daughter of Able and Helen Jones Myers. On March 3, 1944, in Bradford, she married Jack Campbell, who died on May 27, 1991.

Mrs. Campbell and her husband owned and operated Capitol Meat Market on Mechanic Street for many years and, later, the Butcher Block in South Bradford.

She is survived by three sons Jack (Martha) Campbell of Houston, Texas, Bruce (Marcia) Campbell of Palm Bay, Florida, and Richard (Judy) Campbell of Lewis Run; seven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Family will be receiving friends today (July 6) in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc., South Avenue, from 5 to 7 p.m., at which time a prayer will be offered by the Rev. Leo Gallina, pastor of St. Bernard Church.

Burial will be in Willow Dale Cemetery.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to the McKean County SPCA, PO Box 113, Bradford, Pa., 16701, or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences may be made at hollenbeckcahill.com.

Man Facing More Charges

A Salamanca man arrested last week on drug charges is now facing weapons and child endangerment charges.

27-year-old Donald Watson is accused of smashing two television, a fish tank and other items in the house of a person police did not identify.

Police say Watson also sent pictures of a 7-year-old child displaying a firearm.

They say when Watson was arrested Wednesday they found an airline ticket he bought for a flight that was scheduled to depart Thursday morning.

He's jailed on $10,000 bail.

More Wildlife at the Station

With all the wildlife we see around here (or barely see through the fog) you'd think we're way out in the country or something. I wish I could have gotten closer to this bunny, but I didn't want to scare him off. Rabbits usually aren't as cooperative as ducks when posing for pictures.

Man's Death Considered Suspicious

The death of a Corry-area man is being considered suspicious.

Police say an acquaintance found 79-year-old Raymond Goodwill Jr. dead in his Union Township home Saturday morning.

Police didn't release the cause of death, but did say an autopsy will be done today.

Erie County Deputy Coroner Korac Timon says the death is highly suspicious.

Senators Still in Albany

New York State senators are spending this Independence Day weekend in Albany – still unable to reach a power sharing agreement following a shakeup in the chamber nearly a month ago.

They were in session yesterday, but didn't accomplish anything. They will also be in sesion today.

Governor David Paterson is ordering Senators continue to meet even if nothing gets done.

State compltroller Tom DiNapoli will be headed to court Tuesday to ask permission to stop the senators' pay.

Unruly Patient at CCMH

An unruly patient at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital has been charged with disorderly conduct.

Police say 45-year-old Richard Allen of Shinglehouse was not satisfied with the emergency room and started yelling and making unreasonable noise.

A summary citation was filed in district court.

2 ATV Crashes in Chautauqua Co.

An 11-year-old had to be flown to Children's Hospital in Buffalo following an ATV accident at 11:30 Saturday night in Cherry Creek.

Sheriff's deputies say 27-year-old Shaun Laughlin of Tonawanda lost control of the ATV and hit a guardrail. The girl was thrown from the vehicle and suffered a possible broken leg.

Laughlin was treated at Lakeshore hospital for a severe cut on his leg.

Deputies say charges are pending against Laughlin.


~~~

A Jamestown teenager suffered head and arm injuries during an ATV accident Saturday in the Town of Ellington.

Sheriff's deputies say 16-year-old Cody Taylor was operating the ATV on private property when it went out of control and hit a large tree.

He was taken to WCA Hospital in Jamestown for treatment of his injuries.

Children Rescued from Lake Erie

Five children – ages 6 to 12 – had to be rescued from the Sunset Bay area of Lake Erie Saturday afternoon.

The crew of a sheriff's department Lake Erie Patrol Boat heard people calling from the water at about 4:30, then saw the children clinging to an overturned windsurfer about 200 yards offshore.

The crew of the patrol boat plucked the children out of the water and took all but one of them to shore. The fifth child was taken to shore by a person on a Jet-ski.

Ambulances were waiting on shore, but none of the children was hurt.

Sheriff's deputies say they were all wearing properly fitted personal floatation devices.

Steve "Air" McNair Shot and Killed

Former NFL quarterback Steve McNair is dead after being shot multiple times, including once in the head, in a Nashville, Tennessee, condominium.

Police say they found McNair and a woman identified as Sahel Kazemi shot to death after receiving a phone call about an injured person. Police say a pistol was found near Kazemi's body.

Autopsies are scheduled for today.

Wikipedia

Dr. Laurore Joins OB/GYN Practice

Charles Cole Memorial Hospital has announced the addition of Max Laurore, MD who joins the obstetrics/gynecology practice of Dr. Celso Backes.

Dr. Laurore earned a medical degree at the State University of Haiti and completed a residency at Synergy Medical Education Alliance in Saginaw, Mich. He also worked as a clinical instructor at Michigan State University and is an American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology junior fellow.

Drs. Backes and Laurore and their staff will move their practice to the ground level of the Irwin Medical Arts Center in August. They also plan to see patients at some of Charles Cole’s Rural Health Centers starting this fall.

New and returning patients can schedule an appointment by calling 274-7101.

Thanks for the Flower Baskets!

The Main Street hanging basket program has again had a successful fundraising year with the help and support of the Bradford community.

The following individuals, businesses and merchants have participated in the program: The Betty Jane Monjar Garden Society, the Philo and Sarah Blaisdell Foundation, The Jack Graham Family, Bill and Terri Leven, Rev. Leo J. Gallina, Zippo/Case Visitors Center, Tin Ceiling Gift Shoppe, Ott & McHenry Pharmacy, Hailie and Art Cox, Jan Caruso, Jen Eakin, David and Linda Newman, Triple A Nail, Just Riding Along, Futures Rehabilitation Center, and Stanley E. Pecora Jr., Attorney-At-Law.

“We really couldn’t do this program without the support of these individuals and organizations,” said Main Street Manager, Anita Dolan. “Their help is really appreciated and the baskets look beautiful,” Dolan added.

Signs recognizing the supporters are in the process of being made and will be placed with each basket.

Helping Hands Retreat for Kids

By George Nianiatus, senior writer
Communications Department

Children between the ages of 7 and 12 who’ve suffered any kind of loss are being urged to attend the free Helping Hands Retreat at Camp Penuel in Eldred on Aug. 14-16.

To enable a child to attend the camp, call Bradford Regional Medical Center’s (BRMC’s) McKean County VNA & Hospice office at 814-362-7466 by Aug. 1.

“If you know of a child who has experienced the loss of someone close to them, encourage their family to call the VNA,” said Martha Dibble, RN-C, hospice coordinator for VNA & Hospice. “We can accommodate 20 to 25 children at the fifth annual camp that’s filled with fun and meaningful activities,” said Mrs.
Dibble. “In case more children register than what’s expected, we’ll be able to accommodate them by bringing more counselors,” she noted. Children can be from anywhere, not just McKean County. Also, “Children who’ve attended before are welcome to come again,” Mrs. Dibble said.

The camp is staffed by full-time VNA staff, a registered nurse, a social worker with a master’s degree, a lay minister and multiple hospice volunteers. “This camp is geared for children who’ve experienced any kind of a loss of a loved one, pet or friend through separation, divorce or death in their young lives,” Mrs. Dibble explained.

The camp offers an opportunity for children to interact with peers, helping them to know they are not alone in their grief. It also provides friendship, counseling and learning about the normalcy of grief, she said.

Two new activities include swimming and paddle boats, which are supervised by a certified lifeguard and other staff members. There also will be a variety of fun and therapeutic games, craft activities, fishing, a scavenger hunt, a bonfire and more.

Although the children may be somewhat reserved or quiet when first arriving, “They begin to open up. They feel safe to express their feelings because they are reluctant to do so when at home for fear of upsetting someone,” Mrs. Dibble said.

As time progresses at the camp, “You begin to see a lot of healing. During the second day you can tell the children begin to trust us and are able to relate to the others with them,” she said. One of the therapeutic activities Saturday is actually a fun game. “The children throw raw eggs at a hanging sheet that’s called the Egg Wall. You can see the children quickly release their pent-up emotions,” Mrs. Dibble said.

Later that evening a memorial service and bon-fire will be held.

“This gives them a chance to remember their loved ones and say goodbye to get some closure. The children also write a letter to their loved one that is burned in the bonfire. The smoke from the fire symbolizes the children’s messages are going to their loved ones,” she stated.

To attend the camp, children only need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow, clothes for the weekend and a bathroom bag.

“If anyone forgets something, though, we’ll have extras to supply the children,” she noted.

Gifts to the Melissa A. Price McKean County VNA Children’s Bereavement Camp Named Fund are used to support the Helping Hands Retreat. To give to the Fund or others, contact Bradford Hospital Foundation at 20 School St., call 814-362-3200 or go online at www.brmc.com.

BRMC Begins Cardiac MRIs

To supplement the cardiac imaging capabilities for The Heart Center at BRMC, Bradford Regional Medical Center is now performing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the region’s cardiac patients.

“The cardiac MRI is the gold standard for evaluation of heart volumes, valvular heart disease, and myocardial viability,” said Steven C. Herrmann, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.C., F.A.S.E., medical director of Cardiovascular Services at The Heart Center at BRMC. “This level of imaging expertise is usually reserved for university and academic programs, and we are the only place for over 100 miles to offer this expertise,” noted Dr. Herrmann.

“The cardiac MRI program will be used in conjunction with the echocardiography, nuclear, and catheterization labs to offer the absolute finest cardiac imaging in the region. The spatial and temporal resolution is amazing,” the cardiologist explained.

To date, BRMC has performed four cardiac MRIs on local patients, and is now collecting preliminary data on correlations between the echocardiography and nuclear labs.

Dr. Mark Welch, BRMC’s lead radiologist in the Department of Diagnostic Imaging, will be interpreting the MRI scans for The Heart Center at BRMC. “Cardiac MRI provides incredible detail and clinical information about the heart to aide in diagnosis and therapeutic decisions,” he said. “We can now see areas of the heart and make calculations on blood flow and volumes like never before. This is cutting-edge technology for the patients of our region,” Dr. Welch said.

It takes little time to complete this highly accurate test. “A cardiac MRI is non-invasive and takes about 20 minutes to perform,” said Tim Brown, BRMC’s administrative director of Imaging and Cardiovascular Service. “Patients receive no radiation for the exam or contrast dye that can result in kidney failure or allergic reactions. As a result, this is a very safe test for patients to have,” Mr. Brown said.

However, patients with pacemakers or defibrillators are not candidates for a cardiac MRI.

In order to have a cardiac MRI, patients must have a physician referral, Mr. Brown added. The first step to perform cardiac MRIs began in March when BRMC installed a new Open-Bore MAGNETOM Espree MRI unit from Siemens Medical Solutions USA Inc. for $1.7 million. Following intensive staff training, BRMC started conducting MRIs for patients in mid-April. With further training, cardiac MRIs began being performed.

Some CCMH Offices Relocating

Several offices at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital are relocating this summer. Charles Cole will make every effort to minimize any disruption and inconvenience to its patients and visitors.

• Dr. Meller moved from the Patterson Cancer Care Center to the first floor of the Irwin Medical Arts Center, in the space previously occupied by Dr. Bhat. The office can be contacted at its new number, 274-8036.

• Mammography/DEXA will move to the ground floor of the IMAC July 8. For information, call 274-5470.

• Dr. Neerukonda will move July 21 to the first floor of the IMAC. For information, call 274-4837.

• Champion Orthopedics & Sports Medicine will move from the IMAC to the space previously occupied by Women’s Health the week of August 9. For information, call 274-0900.

• Dr. Backes and Dr. Laurore will move to the ground level of the IMAC, previously occupied by Champion Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, the week of August 23. For information, call 274-7101.

Eagles Nesting in 49 PA Counties

HARRISBURG – Just 20 years after the last eaglets were brought into Pennsylvania from Canada, bald eagles have recorded remarkable nesting successes here, according to Pennsylvania Game Commission officials. And, with the Fourth of July just around the corner, the opportunity for Pennsylvanians to see a bald eagle in the wild continues to increase, thanks to the recent completion of a bald eagle nest viewing platform on State Game Land 180 in Pike County.

“The story of the bald eagle’s recovery is living proof that responsible natural resource management and conservation make Pennsylvania a better place to live and ensure wildlife will be around for future generations to enjoy,” explained Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe. “As our nation’s symbol, the bald eagle’s presence is essential in America’s outdoors. They immediately add a touch of true wilderness to any area they inhabit, whether it’s on the shoreline of Philadelphia or a remote stretch of one of the Commonwealth’s river systems.

“With the banning of DDT in 1972, as well as the ensuing environmental clean up efforts launched in the 1970s, the stage was set for bald eagles to recover on their own. However, there is no doubt that the Game Commission’s reintroduction efforts from 1983 through 1989 helped the bald eagle population grow exponentially, from just three known nests in Crawford County in 1983, to nearly 180 nests in 49 of the state’s 67 counties this year.”

At the present time, there are at least 170 known nests, including 36 new nests statewide. Also, for the first time in the agency’s annual survey, Clinton and Mifflin counties were added to the list of counties hosting bald eagle nests. In June of 2008, Game Commission biologists estimated Pennsylvania had 140 known nests in 47 counties. The final nest count turned out to be 156.

“We have realistic expectations of a similar pattern of increase in 2009,” said Doug Gross, Game Commission biologist. “Some pairs that successfully nested in 2008 do not seem to be nesting this year because of storm damage to their nests. Most of these pairs remain in their territories and may rejoin the active nesting population next year.”

As recently as 1983, there were only three eagle nests remaining in Pennsylvania. That year, the Game Commission began a seven-year bald eagle reintroduction program in which the agency sent employees to Saskatchewan to obtain eaglets from wilderness nests. The Richard King Mellon Foundation of Pittsburgh and the federal Endangered Species Fund provided financial assistance for this effort. In all, 88 Canadian bald eagles were released from sites located at Dauphin County’s Haldeman Island and Pike County’s Shohola Falls.

Since 1983, Pennsylvania’s eagle nests have produced more than 1,200 eaglets, and the population has increased by about 15 percent annually. But, while this growth and expansion is to be celebrated, there has been some “crowding” reported in some areas.

“We are hearing of more eagle-to-eagle conflicts at or near nests with a ‘rogue eagle’ interfering with an established pair,” Gross said. “Some of these rogues are beaten back by the established nesting pairs, but others do interfere with nesting and cause some nest failures. This is typical of a population that is reaching saturation in parts of its range, such as the northwestern counties and in the Upper Delaware River watershed.

“There’s still plenty of new or sparsely-used territory for nesting pairs in the Commonwealth. Some of the best remaining eagle nesting habitat includes the Susquehanna’s north and west branches, the Monongahela River, the Youghiogheny River and the Lake Erie shoreline. There also are many large lakes and impoundments scattered across the state with more than adequate fisheries and no eagles.”

Despite the competition for elbow room, there continue to be reports about nesting eagles that astound biologists. One of the more unusual nesting stories from this year comes from Northampton County, where four eaglets were found in one nest.

“This is extremely unusual for eagles, as they generally lay from one to three eggs,” Gross said. “News of this nest has attracted the attention of many eagle advocates and researchers who have never heard of this many eaglets in a nest.”

“What’s so exciting about the bald eagle’s return is that each year they’re nesting in more counties, strengthening their population in Pennsylvania and giving more people the chance to enjoy these magnificent birds here,” Roe said. “Their presence is stronger than ever and it doesn’t appear that they’re close to being done claiming new nesting territories in the Commonwealth.”

To improve bald eagle viewing from a safe location, the Game Commission has built a nest viewing station on SGL 180, in Pike County, that will help folks get a closer, unobstructed view of nesting activities.

John C. Shutkufski, who serves as the Land Management Group Supervisor for the agency in Wayne, Pike, Lackawanna and Susquehanna counties, said that his Pike County Food and Cover Corps crew built a viewing platform that overlooks a bald eagle nest at the Shohola Falls Waterfowl Management Area impoundment on SGL180. This platform is near the Game Commission’s hacking tower site that was part of the agency’s original eagle restoration project in the 1980s.

The entrance to the viewing platform is near the end of Spring Brook Road, off of Route 6, Shohola Falls, and a large wooden sign is visible on site stating “PA Game Commission Eagle Viewing Station.”

“The public may park and view the eagles from start to finish as they mate and rear their young, and eagles sail by the viewing platform regularly,” Shutkufski said. “The viewing deck is a substantial distance from the nest, so a good pair of binoculars, a spotting scope and /or telescopic camera will be a necessity. Also, the deck is wheelchair accessible, and is portable so it can be moved to a better location in the future if needed.”

Bald eagles have symbolized America’s greatness for centuries and now they’ve become one of America’s latest success stories in wildlife management and environmental reform.

The Game Commission currently classifies the bald eagle as a threatened species in Pennsylvania. They are no longer protected by the federal Endangered Species Act – delisted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2007 – because delisting goals had been achieved. However, bald eagles continue to receive federal protection under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which safeguard the birds and their nests from disturbances and destruction.

Today, bald eagles are nesting in every state but Hawaii, which they never inhabited. The lower 48 states have a nesting population that is approaching 10,000 pairs, up from the little more than 400 America had in 1963.

The Game Commission is always interested in reports from the public about new nests and news about bald eagle nests. The status of many nests are difficult to obtain because they are obscured by leaves. The public often provides valuable information about the number of eaglets produced by each nest, and other important information that otherwise might not be known.

“The increased use of rivers and lakes at this time of year by the boating public has yielded new nests to our inventory in recent years,” Gross noted. “If you encounter a nest, give the birds some elbow room, take some notes on the location and the eagles’ behavior, and drop us an email about the specifics. Remember, we cannot protect a nest unless we know about it.”

Emails can be sent to biologists via: pgccomments@state.pa.us. Use the words “Eagle Nest Information” in the subject field.

Eagle Growth Chart (from the game commission): This chart demonstrates how the Game Commission’s eagle reintroduction program helped launch the exponential growth of the state’s nesting bald eagle population.

Nesting eagles: Hal Korber/PGC Photo
Perched eagle: Joe Kosack/PGC Photo
Flying eagle: Jake Dingel/PGC Photo

Game Commission Urges Proper Bald Eagle Viewing Etiquette

While viewing nesting bald eagles is a thrilling experience, Pennsylvania Game Commission officials encourage caution because human disturbances can cause adult eagles to abandon their nests and young. Also, anyone charged with disturbing a bald eagle nest can be charged by federal and state wildlife officials.

“Even though some eagles have built nests near urban and suburban settings, it remains critically important for people to stay a considerable distance away, preferably at least 1,000 feet,” said Brenda Peebles, Game Commission biologist aide, who recently was called to testify as an expert witness in a case involving the disturbance of a bald eagle nest in Springboro, Crawford County.

“A landowner gave permission to another individual to cut down trees near a newly constructed bald eagle nest,” Peebles said. “This person then agreed to allow a second individual to cut the tops up for firewood. As this second person was cutting the tree tops, a volunteer helper, who watches this nest out her kitchen window, saw that the eagles were in a panic. She called me, I then called Crawford County Wildlife Conservation Officer Mario Piccirilli, who investigated the situation and filed a citation. Fortunately, the birds are fine and the young are about ready to fledge.”

As a result of the disturbance, on May 22, in the hearing held before District Judge Rita Marwood, Leroy W. Chupp, of Springboro, was ordered to pay fines and court costs of $558.50.

“While it may seem bald eagles have become more tolerant of people when selecting nest locations, it doesn’t mean they’re comfortable with people approaching their nests,” Peebles said. “It’s also against the law to disturb nesting eagles,” Peebles said. “Get a good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope to watch the nest or observe them in flight. Just please stay back and give them some room. Avoid making loud noises or approaching the nest directly or from above.”

Pictured From left to right, LMGS John Shutkufski, along with Game Land Maintenance Workers Charles L. Campfield, Joseph P Loughney, Leonard C. Boyer Jr. and Ronald Schuman, stand in front of the recently completed eagle viewing platform on SGL 180 in Pike County.
(PGC Photo/Linda McCroddan )

Case Lays Off 45 More

W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co has laid off another 45 employees, cutting the production crew down to one shift.

In a news release, Case CEO Tom Arrowsmith said the reduction of the workforce is due to the current economic environment.

He said the company will continue to evaluate staffing needs until the economy regains strength. He said in the meantime they are focused on improving their internal process and outperforming their competition.

Marketing director John Sullivan says “Case consumers are some of the most loyal enthusiasts of any brand, and the company is confident their new knife offerings planned for fall will spur demand and stimulate sales.

My Opinion:Yes We Can, Bradford

Even before a practically unknown guy from Chicago started saying, "Yes we can" and making people believe it, some people in Bradford were saying it, believing it and making things happen.

A few people are starting to get the old Bradford negative attitude again and I think it's time to nip that in the bud before it infiltrates to other segments of the population.

Several years ago I was covering a meeting at which former Bradford City Clerk Peggy Comilla said people in Bradford are always coming up with excuses as to why projects can't be done in Bradford. She said it was about time to start thinking of reasons projects can be done in Bradford.

The meeting was regarding the restoration and renovation of Old City Hall.

Not long after that, a small group of people made similar comments about a brand new project. That meeting led to the formation of the Tuna Valley Trail Association.

At about the same time, the community learned that the refinery was going to close. But then a couple of guys from out of the area came in and thought they could make a go of it. In case you don't remember, many people thought there was no way anyone could make the refinery successful again.

But Harry Halloran and Harvey Golubock said, "Yes we can."

Remember when Onofrio Street used to be one of the most blighted areas of the city? Sara Andrews said, "Yes we can" make it one of the most beautiful areas of the city.

Remember when Case Cutlery was in danger of closing and Zippo stepped in to say "Yes we can" keep the company going?

In a recent letter to the editor, Mark Luciano suggested that we try to buy items from the Zippo/Case Visitors Center when we can. Is that going to help Zippo make a turnaround from the position the dismal economy has put them in? Probably not. But, can we give them moral support and show the company we appreciate all the support they've given the community for all these years? Yes we can. And we should.

In a LiveLine interview last month, BRMC's Dr. Steven Hermann said, "I think it's really important for a small community to bond together with a common goal, and that common goal should be to support the industry that's in the community whether that's Zippo, Case or Bradford Regional Medical Center."

And, a community is more than big business and government agencies.

It's the people in the Project Pride area believing they can make a difference in their neighborhoods.

It's the people who participate in Relay for Life believing they can help find a cure for cancer.

It's people like Sam Sylvester, John Kohler, Steve Cavallaro, Kelly Platko and all the other private investors who see a brighter future for Bradford and say they can be a part of it.

It's the people at the United Way, and their agencies, who know they can make a difference in other people's lives.

The United Way's campaign slogan this year is "Back to Basics." It seems to me there's nothing more basic than a community pulling together and saying, "Yes we can."

Happy Independence Day!

And ... happy birthday to Bob Onuffer!

Paranormal Activity at Kinzua?

With all of the trauma and desecration one is not surprised to find out that there have been paranormal happenings along the Kinzua Dam and Lake Perfidy. But one would be amazed at the cornucopia of high strangeness that has manifest itself along the shores and beneath the waves of this cursed lake. But finding out these nuggets of Fortean happenings is not an easy task. Most of the campers and fishermen who spend their days and nights along the site are not the kind to openly share their incredible stories of the unexplained. But once in a while you get some who are willing to share their stories, and sometimes they are in the strangest places.

For the full story, go to Examiner.com.

Could You Balance the Budget?

Think you could balance the state budget?

Thousands have tried it at www.youbudgetpa.org, where people can play the online state budget game.

Keystone Progress launched the Web site, which actually lets people forward their plan to lawmakers, but executive director Michael Morrill says few have done that.

The actual state budget talks resume Monday.

NY Senate Remains Gridlocked

New York State Senate leaders, and would-be leaders, met with Governor David Paterson this afternoon in an attempt to come to a power-sharing agreement.

After a one-hour closed door meeting there's no agreement and the senate remains gridlocked.

The Senate has been evenly split following a June 8 coup by Republicans and two dissident Democrats, and then the defection of one of the Democrats back to his own party.

Leaders say there's no power-sharing deal in sight. Meanwhile, hundreds of pieces of legislation that affect the finances of municipalities across the state remain untouched.

Sarah Palin Resigning

Sarah Palin says she will step down as governor of Alaska in a "few weeks" -- before the end of her term, CNN reports. Her last day is expected to be July 26. Speculation is that she is clearing the way for a run at the presidency in 2012.

More from CNN.

Cops: Man Threatened Specter

A North Dakota man is accused of making a phone call threatening the life of Senator Arlen Specter.

The man, whose identity was not released, was interviewed earlier this week in North Dakota at the request of the US Capitol Police.

The telephone message indicated that he would travel to Washington, DC, and assassinate Specter. During the police interview he told authorities he was drunk and making the call was stupid. He didn't give a motive for making the call.

Capitol Police haven't said how they're going to proceed regarding the incident.

Lemon-Aid for the SPCA

Alex Safran, Maddy Weinberg and Preston Weinberg get ready to sell lemonade (and other beverages) as a fundraiser for the McKean County SPCA. They're also selling chances to win a Zippo Fashion Italia handbag filled with lots (and I mean lots) of Zippo gift items. They're holding their sale until 2 p.m. today in front of Tops Market. Please support them and the SPCA.

Mylous Hairston Hospitalized

WIVB-TV reporter and anchor Mylous Hairston suffered a mild heart attack over the weekend and had to have two surgeries to open an artery.

He is now recuperating, and expects to be released from the hospital tomorrow or Saturday, and back on the air in a couple of weeks.

WIVB-TV

I met him during the Holy Family "Virgin Mary Sighting" days. Very nice man.

NY GOP Senators: Democrats Have Hit a New Low

Democratic Senators Bill Stachowski of Lake View and Antoine Thompson, who represents part of Erie and Niagara counties, sent a letter to Republican senators in Western New York calling on them to lay aside political self interest and support the Power for Jobs legislation.

The Republican senators, including Cathy Young, say they are pleased that Senate Democrats have finally decided that the Power for Jobs program is important to Western New York.

The program, which provides low-cost power to hundreds of businesses in exchange for a commitment to create and retain jobs, was initiated by Senate Republicans in 1997.

The Republicans say that by seeking to make the Power for Jobs program a political football in the dispute over Senate leadership, Senate Democrats have hit a new low.

They say if the Democrats were serious about protecting jobs in Western New York they would not have swept hundreds of millions of dollars from the program earlier this year to pay for additional State spending, and most importantly, they would have ensured the program was renewed or made permanent months ago.

More Weather ...

... Or, What Anne Does When She Has an Intern





Actually, it's what Anne does when she has an intern, doesn't feel well and it's the day before a holiday weekend.

SACC Allegany River Fest

The Salamanca Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us for our First Allegany River Fest, July 10-12, 2009. Our new festival showcases two of Salamanca’s greatest assets, the Allegheny River and Veteran’s Memorial Park. Saturday afternoon events will showcase the performance of several great country music groups, including superstars Heartland, Sean Patrick McGraw and The Bobby Hartle Band. This is sure to be the summer’s ultimate place for country-western fun and entertainment the whole family will enjoy!

The Bobby Hartle Band performs Country to Bluegrass and Country Rock. This band presents a fast-paced country show offering solos, three part harmonies and instrumentals that are tailored to meet the interests of a variety of audiences. They have performed with acts such as Travis Tritt, Willie Nelson, Mark Chestnut, Jack Green, Alen Jackson, Blake Shelton and most recently The Marshall Tucker Band and Black Foot! Bob Hartle started playing guitar at the age of eight but did not take it seriously until he was about 14 years old. Bob played in his first band with his stepfather and brother at the age of 16 with his first performance happening at the Antler Hotel in Hazlehurst, Pennsylvania. A few years and a few bands later, he auditioned and starting playing with Keystone at 25. He toured all over the East Coast with Keystone for several years. In 1990, he had the honor to play at the Knoxville Theater in Tennessee for the Independent Music Label awards. The following year he played lead guitar for David Frazell. Bob settled back home at the end of 1991 and reformed a local band with his brother Steve, known as the Hartle Brothers Band. Now having his own band “The Bob Hartle Band”, with a CD titled “Unemployed Cowboy”, he pursues his own career in songwriting and performing in Northern Pennsylvania and Southern New York.

The weekend will be filled with entertainment for everyone in the family to enjoy! Friday night is the kick-off to major Softball and Lacrosse Tournaments, which will be played at local area ball fields, and runs through Saturday afternoon. The children are sure to love the adorable animals at the petting zoo or taking a pony ride while the adults can attempt to defeat the mechanical bull or conquer the western obstacle course. And do not forget to grab all your relatives for a fantastic western style photo. There will plenty of hayrides, line dancing, wonderful country western-style food and music provided by Sam Turek Sound. Entrance to Veteran’s Memorial Park on Sunday and all these fantastic activities are FREE.

Sunday will be filled with awe and laughter as participants in The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta®, a copyrighted program of TIPS Foundation, Inc., try to get their creative cardboard boats to run a 200-yard course in the Allegheny River. The entrance fee for the race is $20 per boat with registration starting at 10:00am. Races will be held at the Front Avenue boat ramp, which is located across from the Salamanca Middle/High School, at 12:00pm with the starting gun being shot by Senator Cathy Young. Numerous trophies will be awarded including the Vogue Award, Pride of the Regatta, Best-Dressed Team, Team Spirit Award, and Titanic Award, along with the fastest boats in Class I and Class II categories. Immediately following the regatta, the Salamanca Youth Bureau will sponsor a Rubber Duck Race.

PRE-SALE TICKETS ARE AVAILABE NOW! Admission is $15 for adults and $8 for children under 12 during pre-sale; $20 for adults and $10 for children under 12 on the day of the event. For more information and a complete schedule of events for the weekend, please contact the Salamanca Area Chamber of Commerce at 716-945-2034 or visit us on-line at www.salamancachamber.org. Come one and all to enjoy all the wonderful festivities!

ANF's Timberline Trail Reopened

Forest Service employees have completed the repairs on a key bridge crossing a stream on the southern portion of the Timberline ATV/Bike Trail.

A pipeline fire early Friday morning, June 26, burnt the bridge. The section of trail from the Play Pit on Forest Road 339 to the Buehler Corners Trailhead on the Timberline ATV/Bike Trail has now been reopened.

Jodie Vanselow, Marienville Deputy District Ranger, said, “Our crews worked hard all week knowing the big weekend of the 4th was coming. We wanted to have this section of trail open so riders could enjoy all of the Timberline ATV/Bike Trail. We’re proud to say the bridge is repaired and the trail is open in its entirety. Enjoy the weekend and ride safely!”

Potter Co. Schools Get Grant Money

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Representative Glenn `GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today announced a $292,706 Department of Education Grant to four area school districts: Oswayo Valley, Austin, Galeton and Northern Potter.

“These funds come under the Improving Literacy through School Libraries program,” said Thompson. “It is a highly competitive program and it says a lot for these school systems that they collaborated to obtain this grant and achieve their goal of helping 1727 rural, underserved students in kindergarten through 12th grade.”

C. Robert Wicker, superintendent of the the Oswayo Valley Area School District, said, “This federal funding will improve student performance on federal/commonwealth assessments; make possible the enriched delivery of family literacy programs; and enable our districts to increase community access to and employment of library text/technology resources.”

Superintendents Matthew Hutcheson, Austin, David Wishard, Galeton, and Scott Graham, Northern Potter said the funds will address child/adult illiteracy, train librarians and teachers, and teach both students and adults to access the Internet. They said it will help mothers and fathers learn to read to their children and help update library collections.

PA Fireworks Laws, Safety Tips

HARRISBURG – State safety and law enforcement officials reminded residents today about the laws governing fireworks usage and safety tips.

“It’s tragic that every year, we hear about deaths and injuries caused by careless use of fireworks,” said State Fire Commissioner Ed Mann. “These tragedies are avoidable by not using illegal devices, or by simply leaving the fireworks to the professionals.”

Pennsylvania state law specifically permits the use of sparklers, trick noise makers, and other such novelties, and is one of only a handful of states that permits the use of “novelty” fireworks. These fireworks can be sold and used in Pennsylvania.

“Fireworks are an Independence Day tradition that, when purchased and used legally, can provide much enjoyment,” said Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff. “Before buying fireworks, help keep yourself and your family safe by checking that they are legal and from a reputable in-state dealer.”

Consumer fireworks, including firecrackers, roman candles and mortars, are prohibited, unless a buyer is granted a permit from his or her local municipality and purchases them from a Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture licensed dealer.

All display fireworks are prohibited.

“A happy 4th of July celebration can quickly turn tragic if fireworks are used without taking the proper precautions,” said Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Frank E. Pawlowski. “We encourage citizens to remember that even sparklers and small fireworks that are legal for Pennsylvanians to use are capable of causing serious injury.”

Mann shared the following safety tips from The National Council on Fireworks Safety:

Sparklers should ALWAYS be used under close adult supervision.
Always remain standing while using sparklers.
Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.
Sparklers and bare feet can be a painful combination. Always wear closed-toe shoes when using sparklers.
Stand at least six feet from other people while using sparklers.
Show children how to hold sparklers away from their body and at arm’s length.
Teach children not to wave sparklers, especially wooden stick sparklers, and not to run while holding burning sparklers.
Never hand a lighted sparkler to another person.
Never hold, or light more than one sparkler at a time.
Sparkler wires and sticks remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop the spent sparkler directly into a bucket of water.


For more information on Pennsylvania laws regarding fireworks, visit the “FAQs about Fireworks” at www.psp.state.pa.us.

Mann also suggested people with children watch this video:

New Contractor Law Now in Effect

PITTSBURGH – Attorney General Tom Corbett today announced that consumers can now contact the Attorney General’s Office to check on the registration status of any home improvement contractor in Pennsylvania by visiting www.attorneygeneral.gov or by calling 1-888-520-6680.

Corbett said that the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, which requires all contractors who perform $5,000 or more in home improvements in a year to register with the attorney general’s office, went into effect July 1.

“We strongly encourage consumers to contact our office before selecting a contractor,” Corbett said. “And we encourage consumers to use only contractors who are registered with our office.

Corbett explained that the intent of the act is to protect consumers from unscrupulous contractors, to provide new protection for consumers who hire home improvement contractors and to authorize criminal penalties for home improvement fraud.

Corbett said that complaints involving home improvement or repair projects are one of the top subjects of calls to the attorney general's bureau of consumer protection. In 2008, the Attorney General’s Office received more than 2,100 complaints from consumers struggling with problems involving home improvement projects.

Corbett said that the office filed numerous legal actions last year against "no show" contractors and others doing substandard work, seeking more than $2 million in consumer refunds, fines and civil penalties.

“This legislation gives us new tools to identify and prosecute problem contractors,” Corbett said. “It will also help consumers avoid frustrating and potentially expensive problems in the future.”

Almost 32,000 Pennsylvania contractors have registered since the beginning of registration on March 23.

Corbett explained that checking with the Attorney General’s office to see if a contractor is registered is important for a few reasons:

· It shows that the contractor is complying with the law.

· It shows the contractor’s insurance information.

· It shows whether or not a contractor has a criminal record or if there were any civil judgments (including bankruptcy) against them.

“We have worked very hard to ensure that our new Web site is informative and easy to use for both consumers and contractors,” Corbett said. “This Web site offers a wealth of valuable information for the consumers in Pennsylvania.”

Corbett said that the Web site includes information for each registered contractor, including:

· Contact and insurance information;

· A description of the company;

· Information on any prior home improvement businesses;

· Names of anyone with an interest in the business;

· Any contractor licenses;

· Bankruptcy, criminal plea and conviction history;

· A map showing where the business is located;

Corbett said that along with checking with the Attorney General’s office when choosing a home improvement contractor, consumers should also contact the Better Business Bureau, check the contractors’ references and obtain multiple estimates.

Corbett emphasized that the Attorney General’s office is not endorsing any particular contractor’s quality of work or honesty.

“Being listed on our search page means only that the contractor is complying with the registration requirement of the home improvement consumer protection act and meeting the insurance requirements,” Corbett said.

All registered contractors are required to have at least $50,000 of personal injury liability coverage and $50,000 of property damage coverage.

ANF Recreation Facilities Open

Warren, Pa. – Forest Supervisor Leanne Marten said that all recreation facilities on the Allegheny National Forest (NF) were opened and have been fully operational since Memorial Day weekend. The recreation sites will remain open for the summer recreation season.

Fees: Fees for campgrounds range from $10 to $28. Each campground has sites that are first-come, first-served, and many have sites that can be reserved. Group camping areas require reservations, except at Hearts Content, and fees range from $45 to $50 per night. Six rustic cabins are available at Willow Bay Campground for a fee of $45 per night. Please check our website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/allegheny/recreation/camping or call 814-362-4613 for fee information.

Double Sites: In response to many requests for adjacent family campsites, some double sites that can accommodate up to 14 people per night have been identified at Buckaloons and Twin Lakes Campgrounds. The double sites are listed with the National Recreation Reservation Service.

Reservations: All reservations are handled through the National Recreation Reservation Service 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 in advance of the scheduled arrival date. Reservations may be made all year, but sites are reservable only from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Annual, Senior and Access Passes: These passports are available at the Forest Supervisor and Marienville Ranger District Offices. The Senior and Access passports entitle the holder to a 50% discount on single-family campsites (utilities not included) at Allegheny NF campgrounds and boat launches. The Annual Pass is not accepted at any site on the Allegheny NF.

Summer hours beginning Friday, May 22, with the exception of federal holidays: The Marienville Ranger District is open seven days a week. The Forest Supervisor’s Office is open Monday through Friday. Both offices will be closed on July 4 and September 7. The Bradford Office is temporarily closed this summer.

Protecting Bald Eagles and Osprey: The Allegheny NF is home to the bald eagle. Fishing line, discarded along the shoreline of the Allegheny National Forest waterways, is a potential hazard to foraging bald eagles. Anglers can help ensure bald eagle safety by not discarding unwanted fishing line or lures on the shoreline. Anglers can take an additional step and pick up lines and lures left behind by anglers using the area before them. Anglers are urged to dispose of unwanted line and lures in proper receptacles to keep the shores and waterways safe and clean for both people and wildlife. To avoid disturbing young nestlings, boaters and canoeists should not approach too closely to eagle nests. If an eagle flies off the nest or is vocalizing (screaming), you are too close. Ospreys are nesting on the Allegheny Reservoir. To avoid nest abandonment, boaters should not approach these nesting birds.

Zebra Mussels: Inspect your boat for “hitchhiker” zebra mussels prior to launching into the Allegheny Reservoir or River. 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). In the absence of hot water, cold pressured water will dislodge mussels or air drying of watercraft for at least five days will kill the mussels.

Firewood: Please do not move firewood into the Allegheny NF because of the danger of bringing in a tree-killing insect! Non-native invasive insects, such as the Emerald Ash Borer and the Asian Longhorned Beetle, live inside the wood until they become adults, and then exit the wood and fly away to start their life cycle anew. The Allegheny NF has a closure order restricting the use of firewood from outside the four counties of Elk, Forest, McKean, and Warren. The movement of firewood by campers is the number one reason insects are moved to new areas. Buy your firewood near your campsite or pick it up from the ground near your campsite. BURN all firewood before you leave your campsite. The campfire ashes should be cold to the touch of your hand before it is considered safe to leave your campsite.

4th of July Tips From the SPCA

The McKean County SPCA offers holiday safety tips for pets this Independence Day.

“The celebrations that come with the 4th of July can cause some serious stress for pets,” says shelter manager Heidi Mackowski. “The loud noises, bright lights, and parties and cook-outs that are so much fun for humans are scary for many pets.”

In order to reduce stress for pets, Mackowski offers the following tips:

· Keep pets at home during fireworks celebrations. Public fireworks displays mean big crowds and scary noises for pets, so it’s best to leave them at home.

· Don't share holiday food and drinks with your pets. Alcohol and a lot of human foods are poisonous for animals. In addition, any changes in an animal's diet can cause digestive problems.

· Pets should be left indoors in a quiet, safe place. Frightened pets are more likely to run away from loud noises, even if it means running away from home. Carriers, crates, or quiet rooms are good choices for all pets to temporarily keep them contained during fireworks displays or loud gatherings.

· Make sure that pets have current identification tags on their collars. It’s more likely that a runaway animal can be reunited with its owners if it’s properly fitted with a tag.

· If you must take a pet outside during the fireworks or party, be sure to have a secure collar and leash on the animal, and be prepared for some nervousness.

· For smaller home fireworks displays and bonfires or campfires, practice good safety techniques and leave pets inside and away from the fire and smoke. Pets are curious and may try to sniff or eat fireworks or logs thrown into fires and can easily be burned.

· If your pet does escape during the festivities, remember to check all local shelters. Even if the pet isn’t there when you call, leave your information and a picture if you have one, because pets can be on the run for days.

The McKean County SPCA is a not-for-profit organization that is committed to providing care to abandoned animals and to alleviating suffering of animals in McKean County. The SPCA will make every attempt to place animals in an appropriate living environment.

Located at 80 Glenwood Avenue in Braford, the McKean County SPCA is open seven days a week. The shelter will be closed to the public on Independence Day.

Woman Jailed After Crash

Four people were hurt and one person is in jail following a two-vehicle crash Wednesday on Routes 5 and 20 in the Town of Hanover.

Chautauqua County Sheriff's Deputies say a vehicle driven by 64-year-old Inez Jimerson of Collins pulled into the path of a vehicle driven by 65-year-old Alice Reed of Dunkirk and the vehicles collided, causing extensive damage to both of them.
Reed and a passenger in Jimerson's vehicle, Loreen Spruce of Irving, were taken to ECMC in Buffalo for treatment.

Jimerson was treated at Lakeshore Hospital for her injuries. She was then arraigned on charges of Felony Vehicular Assault, DWI and related offenses. She's in the county jail on $15,000 cash bail.

Possible Traffic Tie-Ups in J'Burg

Traffic may be backed up on Route 219 in Johnsonburg next week as work continues on the Route 219 Elk County Bypass project there.

The contractor will be placing reinforced concrete beams on the substructures of the new bridge at the south end of the project near Grant Street.

The beams will be delivered Monday in over-sized loads and could cause slow or stopped traffic on Route 219.

The beams will be put up Tuesday through Friday.

Andrew Horton Sentenced

Andrew Horton will spend the next two to 10 years in state prison for conspiring with his son to cause an oil spill in the Allegheny National Forest because he was upset with his former employer.

Horton pleaded guilty in April to charges that he dropped off his son, 22-year-old Christopher Horton, to vandalize Snyder Brothers oil storage tanks in August.

Christopher Horton opened valves spilling 46,000 gallons of oil onto the forest and into a stream, killing thousands of fish and other aquatic life as well as several small mammals.

Christopher Horton is serving three to six years in prison for state and federal convictions.

The Hortons have also been ordered to pay more than $600,000 in restitution.

BRMC's Lab Earns Accreditation

Bradford Regional Medical Center’s (BRMC’s) clinical laboratory has earned another two-year accreditation with an overall score of 96 percent following an inspection by COLA, the accrediting agency.

COLA of Columbia, M.D., is a physician-directed organization whose purpose is to promote excellence in laboratory medicine and patient care through a program of voluntary education, consultation and accreditation.

The accreditation through June of 2011 means BRMC’s clinical laboratory is operating in full compliance with the regulations set forth by Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments and also the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, said Ron Truax, BRMC’s laboratory technical director.

“They looked at our policies and procedures, quality control, proficiency testing, and educational requirements of our staff,” Mr. Truax said. “The study was not just a look at the work of a few people over three days. It was a rigorous review of what has been done over the past two years since the last inspection,” he noted.

COLA reviewed pathology, chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology, immuno-hematology, cytology, coagulation, urinalysis, and blood transfusion services, Mr. Truax said.

The laboratory has a staff of 43 employees.

“The dedicated lab staff strives to provide the most accurate and timely test results possible,” Mr. Truax said.

“This accreditation by COLA is a credit to the laboratory’s leadership and the exceptional work provided by the staff,” added Tim Brown, administrative director of BRMC’s Imaging and Cardiovascular Services.

This is nice to know when you've had, and are scheduled for, lots of tests.

Little Miss Street Dreams Contest

The Street Dreams Car Club is now taking registrations for its annual Little Miss Street Dreams contest.

The contest is available to any girl ages six to ten years old. Contestants must be six years old by September 13, 2009, and not turn 11 years old before September 13, 2009.

Contestants will be introduced at the Summer Daze event that will be held in Downtown Bradford on Friday, July 17. The contest will end with the Autumn Daze event that will be held on Sunday, September 13.

Money raised throughout the contest will benefit local programs. Each participant will receive a tiara and sash and the opportunity to participate in many downtown events and parades. Collection containers bearing a picture of each contestant will be available at area businesses throughout the contest.

For more information contact Main Street Manager, Anita Dolan at 598-3865.

Kane Relay for Life Lights the Way for a Cure

Are you Ready? Get ready, because here it comes – the 9th Annual Kane Area Relay For Life (RFL).

RFL posters popped up around town last week. A banner now hangs in uptown Kane. Twenty Relay teams are making their final fundraising push toward their goals.

The 24-hour culminating event after a year of "raising Kane" begins at the Kane Area High School Track at 12 noon on Friday, July 10 and ends at noon on Saturday, July 11. We invite and encourage everyone to be there for all or part of this extraordinary event.

Relay Reminders
While you can obtain luminaria up until a few moments prior to the 9 p.m. Luminary Ceremony on Friday, July 10, the deadline for having a luminary in honor or memory of a loved one published in the program book is this Friday, July 3.

If you wish your donation published then Luminaria sell sites in Kane include Zook Motors, Erie Insurance, It’s Judi’s Place, and the KCH Hospital Gift Shop and in Mt. Jewett Sure Save and Kafe’ Sol.

Otherwise, arrive early the night of the ceremony to obtain your luminaria.

Luminaries are also available for a love donation by sending the names in whose memory or honor the donation is made along with your name, address, phone and a check payable to the American Cancer Society (ACS), to ACS, P.O. Box 67, Bradford, PA 16701.

What is Relay?
Relay For Life (RFL) is a community gathering where everyone can participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path, each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event --- because cancer never sleeps. Relays are an overnight event, up to 24 hours in length.

RFL brings together millions of people across the nation to raise money to help prevent cancer, save lives and diminish suffering from the disease. Forty percent of the money raised goes for cancer research, the other 60% raised, stays in the area for education and care and services for those with cancer. And that's the reason so many participate in Relay. Because the majority of the money stays local.

Teaming up for the fight
Last year’s Kane Area effort yielded $62K and the goal this year for the Kane Area, set by the American Cancer Society, is $65K. With 20 teams this year and an average of 15 members per team, the Kane Area Relay is an army of 300 people raising money for a year in group, team and individual events, one dime and one dollar at a time. It's a lot of events, lots of bake sales, yard sales, dime/change jars, raffles, 50/50s, spaghetti and rigatoni dinners, product sales, and so much more.

While raising money, team members are learning the facts and raising awareness of cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, while building a network for patient support and building community. Relay brings people together from all walks of life with the common goal of eliminating cancer.

One in three Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life gives everyone the opportunity to fight back and make a difference in the battle against cancer.

Teams come from businesses, clubs, families, friends, hospitals, churches, schools and service organizations.

No matter who you are, there’s a place for you at Relay.

Honoring Survivors

At 7 p.m. on Friday, July 10, the Kane Area Relay will honor cancer survivors. A survivor is anyone who has heard the words “you have cancer”.

If you are a survivor, please join us as our honorary guest at the survivors’ reception and for a ceremonial lap. There will be a tent where you can register prior to the event.

Your strength and courage help the community see that cancer survivorship is real or that living with cancer is possible and that progress in the battle against cancer is taking place.

Hope Lights the Way
Zook Motors of Kane will again be the sponsor of the Relay for Life Luminaria Ceremony that will take place on Friday, July 10 at 9 p.m. at the high school track.

When the sun goes down, hundreds of luminaria light the way under the stars to remember those lost to cancer, those fighting cancer, and those who have fought cancer and won. This ceremony of light symbolizes the hope and perseverance with which we all continue to fight.

The names of all for whom luminaria were donated will be read during the moving ceremony.

Through this tradition of giving a gift to the American Cancer Society in memory or in honor of someone lost to cancer, someone fighting cancer, or in special recognition for someone who has beaten this disease we keep the fire of hope burning.

2nd Annual “Lighted Memories”
Following the luminaria ceremony there will be a music video in honor or memory of loved ones.

To have your loved one included please submit a photo and a 10 word message to ALR1385@hotmail.com or contact Marianne Rook at 837-7115. There is no cost to honor or memorialize a loved one in the “Lighted Memories” presentation.

Everyone loves a parade
To introduce the community to this year’s Relay teams and members and the upcoming 9th Annual Kane Area Relay for Life there will be a parade in uptown Kane at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 9.

This is a great event for the whole family. Come and support local cancer survivors and remember family and friends at this year's parade. Enjoy band, floats, fire trucks, Miss Relay contestants, members of our 20 teams distributing candy and much more.

Let's make sure we fill the streets of Fraley Street. Make it a family night with a pre-parade or post parade meal at one of our great restaurants.

Then, join us on Friday, July 10th at the Kane Area High School Track as we begin our 24 hour Relay Wrap-up for 2009. Come cheer on survivors, help us choose the 2009 Miss Relay, stay for the moving luminary ceremony and lighted memories presentation.

The Sports Boosters will have the concession stand open for an evening meal Friday from 4-11 p.m. and 6-9 a.m. on Saturday for breakfast. Many teams will have sweet treats to sell, raffles, 50/50s, or games for kids (all 24 hours) while team members take to the track to walk or run for a cure for cancer.

It will be a weekend you’ll never forget.

Ducks in Row

These are just three of the feathered and/or furry creatures we see every day outside the station. They were nice enough to pose for me when I left last night.

Tip to Robbers: Fill the Gas Tank

State police say two men accused of robbing a gas station might have gotten away if they'd done something before robbing the place – put gas in their car.

The two men from the Carbondale area are accused of using a knife to rob a clerk at a stpre near the New York-Pennsylvania border, then driving away.

But their getaway car ran out of gas a mile down the road, where New York state troopers found them.

The clerk wasn't hurt. The men are in jail without bail.

ANF: Leave Firewood Home

New signs are now in place across the Allegheny National Forest as a reminder to visitors – burn it where you buy it!

The purple panel trap in the upper right is one of many across the forest. These traps are monitored throughout the summer to detect emerald ash borer.

The emerald ash borer continues on its relentless move across the United States, but only with the help of people moving firewood. A weak flyer, the emerald ash borer, can normally only expand its range less than ½ miles per year on its own. But, this disastrous critter has been hopping from state to state in firewood being transported from home to camps, or vice-versa. It has recently been found in Randolph, New York, near Allegany State Park.

Please leave your firewood at home over the Fourth of July weekend if you plan to come to the Allegheny NF. If you do buy or collect firewood once you arrive on the forest, burn it where you buy it. Protect your forest.

Physician Change in Smethport

Due to the relocation of its primary medical staff physician, administration officials at Smethport Family Practice are announcing a change in staff.

Rhonda Chilson, Practice Management Director for Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC), said recruitment efforts are under way to fill a full-time position at the practice.

Family practitioner Ferdinand Magno, M.D., who joined in December 1998, is relocating with his family to Texas.

"The staff at the practice and his patients wish him the best and appreciate the quality care he has provided as part of the BRMC family," Mrs. Chilson said. Starting at Smethport Family Practice on July 1 is Robert C. Guadagno, M.D., who served previously at the BRMC satellite. "We're pleased to have Dr. Guadagno return to the Smethport practice for continuity of care for our patients during this recruitment phase," Mrs. Chilson said. "He'll be joining a well-known office staff and longtime family nurse practitioner Bonnie Scanlan who has an established following as primary care provider."

New patients are being accepted at the Franklin Street medical practice and patients can call for appointments at 814-887-5655.

Dr. Guadagno obtained his medical degree from Albany Medical College, Albany, N.Y., and completed a residency in Family Practice at The Medical Center in Beaver, Pa. He holds diplomate status with the American Board of Family Practice and is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Prior to returning to Smethport, Dr. Guadagno provided patient care in Family Practice at Family Health Associates, Lewistown, Pa., and served as an active member of the Department of Medicine, Division of Family Practice at Lewistown Hospital. He provided service at BRMC's Department of Family Practice in 2005 and 2006. Dr. Guadagno also served as a staff physician in family practice at locations in Pennsylvania, including Geisinger Medical Group, Sunbury, and Lock Haven Hospital and at medical facilities in New York State, Utah and Texas.

Mrs. Scanlan, a certified family nurse practitioner, joined Smethport Family Practice in March 1999. She received her bachelor and master of science degrees in nursing from Rush University in Chicago, Ill. Mrs. Scanlan is certified in family practice nursing by the American Nurses' Association and in primary care by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Smethport Family Practice opened in 1987, serving newborns through senior citizens. Affiliated with BRMC, the practice provides services including comprehensive family care, laboratory services, sports physicals, child immunizations, women's health and assists patients with the management of chronic conditions.