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Showing posts from August 1, 2010

Accused Vandal Falls Asleep in School

A Kane resident picked the wrong place to sleep it off this morning. Police say they found 18-year-old Jonathan Card sleeping inside the cafeteria at Kane Area High School at 6:14 a.m. They later determined that Card had thrown a cement block through the glass portion of a back door, reached through the broken part of the door and opened it from the inside. Card was arraigned by District Judge Dominic Cercone on charges of criminal trespass, institutional vandalism, criminal mischief and underage drinking. He was sent to McKean County Jail on $5,000 bail.

Big 30 Parade at 2 p.m.

Main Street. Bradford

ATV Accident Injures Two

Two Ohio residents were hurt in an ATV accident early this morning in Cherry Creek. Sheriff’s deputies say the accident happened at 1:10 a.m. in the backyard of a Park Terrace home when the ATV hit a tree. The driver 51-year-old Mark Ashbrook of Cleveland is being treated for head and chest injuries at ECMC. He’s listed in serious condition. His passenger, 37-year-old Tonia Dimare of Bayvillage was taken to WCA Hospital in Jamestown for treatment of a minor head injury. No charges have been filed. Update: At around 1:23 a.m. Dimare was picked up for driving while intoxicated for driving a car into a ditch.

Driftwood Woman Hurt in Crash

A Driftwood woman suffered major injuries in an accident Friday afternoon on Route 120 in Gibson Township. State Police say 31-year-old Danielle Mason riding her motorcycle and rounding a curve when the bike went out of control, crossed the road and hit a set of guide rails. Mason was thrown from the bike, hit the guide rails and landed in a wooded area along the road. She was taken from the scene by Sinnemahoning Ambulance, then taken to Altoona Hospital for treatment of her injuries.

'Unstoppable' Trailer

Video: Exclusive: 'Unstoppable' Trailer

Fun with Oobleck

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Rainbow Corner Preschool teacher Kimberly Engstrom (center) helps a group of Summer Fun Camp participants make Oobleck during their final morning’s activities Friday. Thirteen children took part in the camp, which ran Tuesday through Friday and was held at the CARE for Children offices at 20 Russell Boulevard. Throughout the week, they were able to enjoy fun activities provided by the Penn State Cooperative Extension and CARE for Children staff. Activities included arts and crafts, animal tracking and water fun. Registration is now being accepted for Rainbow Corner Preschool’s fall session, which is scheduled to begin Tuesday, September 7. There are openings in both the morning and afternoon sessions. Please contact CARE for Children for more information. Photo provided by CARE for Chidren

Men Indicted on Burglary Charges

Two men have been indicted on burglary and larceny charges. 20-year-old William Perkins of Olean and 28-year-old Cody Havens of Hinsdale are accused of breaking into a house in Hinsdale in early February and taking a roll of quarters, jewelry a chain saw and 18 bottles of wine. They’ll be arraigned on August 16.

Cops Called About Unwanted Person, Bear

Bradford City Police had a variety of complaints to keep them busy on Thursday, according to the complaint report and request sheet faxed to WESB and The HERO by the police department. Officers received calls reporting harassment on Blaisdell Avenue, disturbances on West Washington and West Corydon streets and an assault on St. Francis Drive. They also went to the scene of a motor vehicle accident at Congress and Elm streets and a custody dispute on Orchard Place. They got reports of abandoned vehicles on Fields Court and East Main Street and noise on Congress and Bushnell streets, and were asked to remove an unwanted person from Mechanic Street. Police also received a few complaints about animals. The complaints form Osbourne Place and Hobson Place weren’t specified. The complaint from Summer Street was about a bear.

Pitt-Bradford Names Geary as Executive
Director of Division of Continuing
Education and Regional Development

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The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has named Raymond R. Geary executive director of Pitt-Bradford’s Division of Continuing Education and Regional Development. Geary comes to Pitt-Bradford from Elmira (N.Y.) College, where he was the dean of continuing education and graduate studies. He will begin his new position on Aug. 11 and will report to Pitt-Bradford’s President, Dr. Livingston Alexander. Geary will also serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet. “Ray Geary impressed us immensely as he competed for this position as part of a national pool of applicants,” Alexander said. “He brings a wealth of knowledge to the position, as well as a proven track record of success at several institutions of higher education.” Geary said, “I am excited to be joining the Pitt-Bradford team. I look forward to developing relationships, partnerships and collaborations in our community and the region and also strengthening the quality programs that already

Bradford Bypass Work Update

PennDOT issues the following travel update for the Route 219 Bradford Bypass project in McKean County. This update is for the week of August 9. All work is weather and schedule dependent. Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. of State College is the contractor on this $28 million job. · Work on the Route 219 southbound ON-ramp at Elm Street continues. Traffic is using the existing shoulder. Contractor crew will be working close to the roadway placing bituminous pavement for a new barrier wall. Expect delays during work hours. · Northbound traffic is sharing a lane with southbound traffic, separated by temporary concrete barrier from Mill Street to north of Hillside Drive. · Northbound ramps at Foster Brook Interchange are closed. Traffic is to follow the posted detours. · No construction activity is expected on Bolivar Drive/State Route 346. Bridge painting at this location will take place later in August. · The contractor expects to place overhead sign structures between Kendall Avenue and Foster B

Big 30 Player Hurt in Cameron Co. Crash

A player on the Pennsylvania Big 30 team was hurt in an accident at about 11 o’clock Thursday night on Sizerville Road near the ball field in Portage Township. Emporium-based state police say 18-year-old James Donald Nellis of Port Allegany was traveling south on Route 155 when he lost control of his vehicle, crossed both lanes of travel, went over a small embankment and hit a tree. The vehicle kept going through a wooded area and hit another large tree. He had to be extricated by the Emporium Fire Department. He was first taken to Elk Regional Health Center, then to a trauma center treatment of his injuries.

Woman Indicted for Scissors Attack

A Bradford woman has been indicted by a Cattaraugus County grand jury for stabbing an Allegany woman in the neck with a pair of scissors. 20-year-old Samantha Jo Connor was charged with assault and criminal possession of a weapon following the April 15 incident at the Lantern Motel in Allegany. She'll be arraigned August 16.

Pennsylvania Team to Present Case for
'Race to the Top' Funds in Washington, DC

A team from Pennsylvania will present the commonwealth's vision for education reform to the reviewers scoring its Race to the Top application on Aug. 11 in Washington, D.C., acting Education Secretary Thomas E. Gluck said today. Pennsylvania was named on July 27 as one of 19 finalists for a Race to the Top grant of up to $400 million. Each of the state finalists will make a team presentation to the reviewers scoring its application, and reviewers will have the opportunity to ask questions. The reviewers can adjust their scores based on the presentations. Race to the Top grant winners are expected to be announced in early September. "Pennsylvania's emergence as a finalist was based upon the strong foundation of reforms already well under way in our state, as well as the potential shown in our application for accelerating our rate of student success," said Gluck. "Our application is strong, and we are optimistic about receiving a grant that will help advance our e

Casey Introduces Bill That Promotes
Fracking Jobs for Pennsylvanians

WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) today introduced legislation to help prepare Pennsylvania workers for jobs in the natural gas industry. The Marcellus Shale On-the-Job Training Act of 2010 will authorize grants to strengthen the On-the-Job Training programs to help ensure natural gas drilling jobs go to Pennsylvanians and not workers from out-of-state. “Natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale, if done properly, can create economic benefits for the Commonwealth and for Pennsylvanians,” said Senator Casey. “Unfortunately, many of these jobs are not going to Pennsylvanians. The companies are bringing in workers with prior experience from out-of-state. That is why I am introducing a bill to help increase on-the-job training so that these jobs will go to Pennsylvanians.” One recent report by the Allegheny Conference on Community Development suggested that 70% of workers employed at Marcellus Shale drillings sites are not residents of Pennsylvania. As the number of Marc

Philly to Potter Co. Drug Ring Broken Up

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Agents from the Attorney General’s office today filed criminal charges against 11 individuals connected with two separate, but similar, drug operations allegedly responsible for distributing nearly $600,000 worth of cocaine in Philadelphia, its suburban counties and across central Pennsylvania. Attorney General Tom Corbett said that these charges are a result of two separate cocaine trafficking investigations. Evidence and testimony regarding the case was presented to a statewide investigating grand jury, which recommended the criminal charges being filed today. According to the grand jury, the first organization was headed by Philadelphia resident Nicholas Fatiga. This organization was allegedly responsible for distributing more than three and a half kilos of cocaine in Philadelphia, Montgomery, Mifflin and Potter counties over a 14 month period. One of the people arrested is 22-year-old Thomas Shadle of Westfield . He’s charged with four counts of criminal conspiracy, three counts of

Theobald Gets Two Life Sentences

As expected, Greggory Theobald has been given 2 life sentences without the possibility of parole for killing Megan Konopka and her unborn son last September at the Riddell House. Theobald was sentenced this afternoon in McKean County Court. The sentences are to be served consecutively. District Attorney Ray Learn tells WESB and The HERO that he’s satisfied. “This is a good outcome for everybody involved,” he said, adding that it’s an outcome Konopka’s parents are satisfied with as well. “It’s a resolution that will take the threat of (Theobald) off the street and see that he dies in jail and never sees the light of day as a free man,” Learn said. Learn added that even if Theobald went to trial, was convicted and got the death penalty, the case would be tied up in the court system, possibly for decades, in the appeal process. The case of Thomas Haggie, who is also charged with killing Konopka and the baby, hasn't been resolved yet.

Allegheny Motorcycle Show & Dice Run
This Weekend to Benefit Red Cross

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The McKean-Potter Counties American Red Cross will be holding its second annual Allegheny Motorcycle Show & Dice Run this weekend August 7th & 8th at Evergreen Park in Kane, PA. A new feature, the dice run, was added this year to showcase the scenic drives throughout McKean County. Registration for the dice run, which will be held on Saturday, is from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Evergreen Park. The run will start at 11:00 a.m. with a parade through Kane, PA and then travel 95 miles throughout the county making stops at the Warehouse, the New City Line, Tack’s Inn, and the Smethport Fire Hall before heading back to Evergreen Park in Kane. Participants will roll dice at each stop and various food items will be sold as well. Vendors will be set up in the park throughout the weekend featuring merchandise, food, tattoo artists, and other local vendors. The band for Saturday afternoon will be “October Rose” and Sunday will feature “Dressed to Kill”. The Kane Elks Club will be hosting

Alfred State Closes Admissions for Fall;
Anticpates Largest Class in Decades

ALFRED, NY -- Alfred State College has announced that it has closed admissions for fall 2010, meaning that no additional applications will be considered for the upcoming semester. The College anticipates its largest enrollment in decades with many programs already on waiting lists. The growth is attributed to the fact that Alfred State College is an excellent value with quality programs and graduates enjoy a placement and transfer rate of 99 percent. According to College President Dr. John M. Anderson, the College made this decision because of the on-going reduction of State support as well as the failure of the New York State Legislature to pass the Public Higher Education Empowerment and Innovation Act (PHEEIA). “After receiving significant state budget cuts in recent years and failing to obtain the flexibility through PHEEIA that would allow us to control our growing enrollment, we felt the prudent move would be to manage our current growth and evaluate our options for next fall

Willow Creek Trialthlon Update

Participants and spectators trying to get to Quaker Lake for the start of the Willow Creek Triathlon from Interstate Parkway will have to find an alternate route. The Fifth Annual Willow Creek Triathlon, which is set for Saturday, starts with the opening ceremony and the swimming event at Quaker Lake in Allegany State Park, N.Y. The access point from Interstate Parkway, Bradford, is closed due to bridge replacement. Those attending and participating in the triathlon should take Route 346 West, also known as West Washington Street, 16 miles to New York State at which point the route changes to Route 280. Turn right into Allegany State Park and drive around the lake to the swimming area. Those traveling on Interstate 86 in New York should take Exit 18 to Quaker Lake and continue straight into the state park. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m.; rules meeting at 9 a.m. and shotgun start at 9:30 a.m. The triathlon, which also includes bicycling and running, benefits the Disabled American Vet

Paving Work to Start Monday on Route 219
From Lewis Run to Custer City

Drivers in McKean County will encounter a lane restriction beginning Monday, August 9 on Route 219 between the villages of Lewis Run and Custer City. The restriction is necessary for paving to begin across a three-mile section of Route 219 in this area. Motorists should expect traffic delays and be alert for flaggers and stopped or slow-moving traffic. Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. of State College is the contractor on the $2.9 million project. Lane restrictions are expected to be lifted by Friday, August 20. To date, other project work has included guide rail upgrades, drainage, and shoulder upgrades. PennDOT reminds motorists they can log on to 511pa.com or call 511 from any phone to check traffic conditions before heading out.

Man Dies in Construction Accident

A Brookville man is dead after a steel forming wall fell on him while he was working at the water treatment construction site in Pine Creek Township. State Police say 23-year-old Cody Fyock died Wedenesday morning. The accident is still under investigation.

Bradford Man Escapes from Elk Co. Jail

A Bradford man is facing charges after he didn’t return to the Elk County Jail after being let out on work release. William Umstead Jr. was serving 90 days in jail for not paying child support. Police say they believe Umstead may be with Mary Skaggs who is currently wanted in connection with a stolen U-Haul truck out of McKean County.

Allegany Man Arrested for Olean Murder

An Allegany man is charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of 27-year-old James Williams of Olean early Tuesday morning. 33-year-old Martez Johnson was arrested Tuesday on a parole violation, and was charged Wednesday in connection to the murder. He’s in Cattaraugus County Jail without bail. He’s scheduled to be in Olean City Court August 10. Williams was found dead in a South Second Street home just before 1 a.m. Tuesday after police received reports of gunshots. A state police dive team recovered a long gun from the Allegheny River that they believe is the murder weapon. The man who jumped out a second floor window the morning of the shooting has been identified as Eric Blair of Buffalo. He was visiting Williams at the time of the shooting. Blair is being treated at ECMC for injuries related to the jump.

'Miss Tuning' Visits PA for Photo Shoot

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By Sandra Rhodes Visitor & Member Services Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau Start your engines! Sites within the Allegheny National Forest region have been selected as the stunning backdrops for a calendar photo shoot that includes a variety of modified vehicles and the German model “Miss Tuning”. Kristin Zippel was crowned Miss Tuning 2010 during the Tuning World Bodensee event in Germany. Part of becoming Miss Tuning includes an exclusive photo shoot for a 2011 calendar. This year, organizers selected the Great Lakes region to photograph iconic sites as backdrops for the calendar. Last year’s photo shoot was in the British Virgin Islands. During a photo scouting trip last month, representatives from Messe Friedrichshafen, the Great Lakes of North of America, and the ANF Visitors Bureau toured the area visiting locations as possible sites to be featured in the upcoming calendar. Toby McCarrick, executive director of the Great Lakes of North America (GLNA) - a marketing

Sen. Young Statement on NY Budget

“This budget fiasco shows exactly why we need to regain the Senate Majority. State government is desperately in need of checks and balances, and out-of-control taxes and spending need to be stopped. The people of this state have had enough of Albany's destructive shenanigans. Unfortunately for taxpayers, the New York City-controlled politicians who currently dominate Albany have struck again. I opposed their budget mess because it hurts families and economic recovery. Over the last two years, this leadership have raised taxes on the average New York family by about $5,500 at a time that they can least afford it. Higher taxes, more spending, no job creation initiatives, and an extremely late budget -- all negotiated in secret by three men in a room from New York City -- there is nothing good about this budget. It raises taxes on clothing, does nothing to correct suffocating property taxes, doesn't reform Medicaid, and steals tax credits that create j

St. Marys Women Hurt in Collision

Two St. Marys women were hurt when their car collided with a tractor trailer at 1 o’clock this afternoon on Route 255 near Elk Regional Health Center. St. Marys Police say 64-year-old Garvase Flutur of Ontario, Canada, was driving the tractor-trailer north when a southbound car driven by 41-year-old Melissa Salter entered the northbound lane and the vehicles collided. Salter was flown by STAT Medivac helicopter to Hamot Medical Center. Her passenger, 40-year-old Amy Courteau was taken to Elk Regional. Flutur was not hurt. Police are continuing their investigation.

Fugitive Picked Up in Cattaraugus County

A Nebraska man is in jail in Little Valley on a warrant out of Minnesota. Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s deputies say they assisted the US Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force in arresting 36-year-old Cory Dieteman of Elkhorn, Nebraska, at 9:40 this morning. Dieteman is wanted in Minnesota on a charge of criminal sexual misconduct. He’s being held in Cattaraugus County Jail awaiting extradition.

Police Loooking for Stolen Car Filled with Drugs, Cash

Police in the Twin Tiers are on the lookout for a Pontiac Grand Prix that was stolen at 3:10 this afternoon. They believe the vehicle is headed toward Buffalo and has drugs and cash in it. The license plate is NY EXK 9804.

Custer City Man Facing Nearly 300
Charges for Allegedly Raping Children

A Custer City man charged with nearly 300 counts relating to raping two children is in McKean County Jail on $1 million bail. 51-year-old Glenn Vincent was arrested Tuesday night after the mother of the children reported the rapes. He was arraigned by District Judge Rich Luther and sent to jail. According to paper’s filed in Luther’s office the girls were 10 years and 12 years old when the assaults began in July of 2007. The assaults continued until Tuesday. Besides charges of rape, sexual assault and indecent assault Vincent is charged with illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Man Takes Police on Foot Chase

A Bradford man wanted by the McKean County Probation Department took police on an extended foot chase through downtown Bradford this morning. 20-year-old Clifford Hatch III is charged with flight to avoid apprehension and disorderly conduct. Papers filed in District Judge Dominic Cercone’s office say Hatch ran from police and attempted to conceal himself several times, know he was wanted by the probation department. Hatch was also arraigned on forgery and theft charges stemming from alleged incidents in June, when he’s accused of taking a woman’s blank checks and using them at the Foster Brook Walmart. Hatch is in McKean County Jail.

Homicide Victim ID'd

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Olean Police have identified the victim of Tuesday's homicide. Investigators say 27-year-old James Williams was found dead at just before 1 a.m. inside an apartment on South 2nd Street. Another man jumped from a second-story window, and is being treated at ECMC. Police have not released the name of the second person. Investigators are now looking for the gunman.

Frank Williams Sports Blog: Congrats to Bradford Drillers

Frank Williams Sports Blog: Congrats to Bradford Drillers : "Congratulations to the Bradford Drillers. They finished the round robin part of the Cooperstown, New York baseball 11 and 12 year-old toura..."

Konopka's Family Wants Granddaughter

"Bradford has taken our daughter -- OK? -- by her murder. Now, CYS wants to take our granddaughter from us, too, and I don't think that's right," said Konopka's father, Dennis. See/read the story at The Pittsburgh Channel.com . Gregory Theobald, one of two men charged with murdering Konopka and her unborn son, is scheduled to be sentenced in McKean County Court on Thursday. He's expected to get two life sentences after making a plea deal that took the death penalty off the table.

New York Has a State Budget

New York State finally has a budget. Senate Democrats approved their revenue bill Tuesday night during a special session called for by Governor David Paterson. The Assembly passed its budget bills in June. Part of the holdup in the Senate had to do allowing schools in the State University of New York system to increase tuition without Legislative approval. Tuesday night, they agreed to continue negotiations with the tuition proposal, for the sake of passing the budget, which was due in April.

More Info on Kinzua Dam Incident

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At about 3 o'clock Tuesday afternoon a man in a black Chevy or GMC truck approached a man and woman having lunch at the Kinzua Point Information Center on Route 59 in Mead Township, according to a fax sent to WESB and The HERO by Warren-based state police. At gunpoint, he forced both of them to the ground and tied the man with rope and duct tape. He forced the woman into the truck and left the scene with her. The man was able to free himself and alert people in the area, who contacted police. The suspect took the woman to the Red Bridge area of McKean County, sexually assaulted her and released her. State Police who were canvassing the area in search of her found her near Route 321. The man is described as white, 5' 9" tall with a thin build, a scruffy beard and short hair, possibly balding. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Warren-based state police at 728-3600. Police were assisted by Warren City Police, the US Forest Service and the Franklin-b

National Night Out/Taste of Bradford '10

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This young man tries to dunk Bradford City Police Chief Chris Lucoo (with a little help from Elm Street Manager Lisa Keck). Lucco and Mayor Tom Riel raised $105 for the McKean County SPCA by volunteering to be dunked. The second annual NNO Pet Parade.

Still Waiting for More Info on Homicide

Olean Police had expected to release more information about this morning’s homicide this afternoon, but they haven’t given us any more details yet. They have said the victim is a man in his 20s or 30s. He was found dead in his South Second Street home after neighbors reported hearing gunshots at just before 1 a.m. Another man jumped out of a second story window of the building and is undergoing surgery at ECMC. Police have not said if the second man is another victim, or a suspect. We’ll have more information as soon as police release it.

Drillers Win Another One

The Bradford Drillers beat a team from Illinois 18-9 this afternoon and are now 5-2. They find out tmorrow where they are seeded in the Cooperstown Tournament. Way to go Drillers!

Gabler is 'Young Conservative of the Year'

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State Rep. Matt Gabler (R-Clearfield/Elk) has been named "Young Conservative of the Year" by the Phillips Foundation. The freshman legislator will travel to Washington, D.C. Wednesday night to accept the award. "A few years ago, one of The Phillips Foundation's trustees suggested there be an award to an outstanding young conservative leader in politics, public affairs, and other fields," said Assistant Secretary Jeff Hollingsworth of the Phillips Foundation. "The idea is to help motivate and inspire our scholarship winners by enabling them to meet and hear from a young leader who is a rising star in his or her field - someone who can be a role model for them. "That is why Matt Gabler is a perfect choice for this year's award. He had a stellar undergraduate career in both high school and at Bucknell University, where he was a leader-activist and received a merit-based scholarship from our Ronald Reagan College Leaders Scholarship Program. He ha

4 More to Go!

Last week the Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce issued a challenge saying they wanted 1,000 Facebook fans by today. They only have 4 more to go! What are you waiting for? Go "like" them now! http://www.facebook.com/BradfordPAChamber P.S. I'm not sure if there's any truth to the rumor that Becky and Kara are not allowed to go home until they get 1,000 fans -- but let's not take any chances. They do have families, after all.

CCMH, Hospice Host Lifetimes Retreat

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Charles Cole Memorial Hospital and Potter County Hospice hosted a retreat at the Patterson Cancer Care Center for children who have dealt with grief due to death, divorce or other loss. The second annual Lifetimes Retreat featured activities for the children as a means to express their feelings and work through the grieving process. Children played a spider web game, made age-appropriate bereavement packets, wrote letters to loved ones and “sent them to heaven” via helium balloons, and drew pictures of what makes them sad and “erased their sadness” with water balloons. “Hospice decided to start Lifetimes Retreat because kids grieve too but they grieve differently than adults,” said Bonnie Kratzer, director, home health and hospice. “Through the retreat we give the kids an avenue to allow grieving and talking with other kids going through the same losses. We hope that kids feel that it’s OK to grieve for their loved ones and know that others have the same feelings that they have.” Pict

Abduction at Gunpoint Near Kinzua Dam

Police agencies in the Twin Tiers are looking for a woman who was abducted at gunpoint from the Kinzua Dam area at 3 o’clock this afternoon. The man who kidnapped the woman is described as white, 5’ 9” inches tall with a beard. He was driving a 1990s-model black Chevy truck. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Warren-based state police.

Reading, PA, Mayor Starts Online
'Wall of Shame' of Blighted Properties

Reading Mayor Tom McMahon on Monday announced a new online "Wall of Shame" featuring blighted properties in the community. McMahon says the property owners' names will be posted along with pictures and addresses. He says he's serving notice to property owners who fail to take action on properties considered eyesores. For more on this story, go to the Reading Eagle

GOP Group Hosting Happy Hour in Kane

Kane — The McKean County Young Republicans will host a Happy Hour at Pepe’s Pizzeria, 127 Fraley Street in Kane on Wednesday, August 4th from 6PM-8PM. State Representative Kathy Rapp will be the special guest. “I am thrilled to announce the McKean County Young Republicans Happy Hour with State Representative Kathy Rapp. This is not only the first Happy Hour event for our group, it is also our first event in Kane. I would like to welcome all McKean County residents, especially those in the Kane area to come meet the Young Republicans and discuss current issues with our members and with Representative Rapp,” said Andrew Johnson, Chairman of the McKean County Young Republicans. The McKean County Young Republicans were founded to develop and maintain a county-wide Young Republican Organization to bring young people into the Republican Party and to provide an opportunity to them for political expression and recognition. The organization works to promote social activities and political aware

Warren State Hospital's Forensic
Psychiatric Unit Slated to Close October 31

WARREN- Reemphasizing her unwavering commitment to protecting the many jobs and community services provided on the campus of Warren State Hospital, Rep. Kathy Rapp (R-Warren/Forest/McKean) today harshly criticized the governor's and the Department of Public Welfare's (DPW) decision to consolidate and close the facility's Regional Forensic Psychiatric Unit effective Oct. 31. "Given the Commonwealth's more than $40 billion in interest-accruing state debt that is the direct result of eight consecutive years of unsustainable and unrestrained government spending, there is no doubt that one of the biggest legacies of the outgoing Rendell administration will be blatant fiscal irresponsibility," said Rapp. "However, the governor's most recent decision to close one of our state's most cost-efficient and effective forensics units in order to preserve hundreds of millions of dollars in newly borrowed, special interest discretionary funding or WAMS, including

Report: More Than 1,400 Drilling
Violations in Two-and-a-Half Years

The Pennsylvania Land Trust Association has issued a report saying companies drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale have racked up more than 1,400 violations of state rules since January 2008. The report says the state Department of Environmental Protection has recorded 100 violations of Pennsylvania's Clean Stream Law, 268 violations related to waste water reservoirs and 154 violations for discharging industrial waste. The report is based on a right-to-know request filed by the group for DEP enforcement records. Drilling advocates say the report shows state oversight of the industry is working. http://blog.conserveland.org/2010/08/02/marcellus-shale-drillers-in-pennsylvania-amass-1435-violations-in-2-5-years/

Motorcycle Events Abound in McKean Co.

By Sandra Rhodes Visitor & Member Services Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau The roar of motorcycles will descend upon McKean County, Pennsylvania, this month with a motorcycle shows and a dice run. Kane, Pennsylvania, will be high on the “Hog” – as well as other motorcycles - this weekend with the Allegheny Motorcycle Show & Dice Run. The two-day, two-part event is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 7, and Sunday, Aug. 8, at Evergreen Park. The dice run will be held Saturday, Aug. 7, with registration from 9 to 11 a.m. After registration closes at 11 a.m., dice run participants will then proceed through one of the most beautiful spots on earth – the Allegheny National Forest. A beer garden, bands and vendors – selling merchandise as well as food - will be on hand from 3 to 8 p.m. Make sure to stick around for Sunday with the motorcycle show at Evergreen Park. Bike show registration will be from 10 a.m. to noon; the bike show will be from noon to 3 p.m. Meander around the par

Homicide in Olean

Olean City Police remain on the scene of a homicide on South 2nd Street in Olean. Sources tell WESB/The Hero that one man was fatally shot early this morning. Police agencies are looking for a light colored Mercury Sable. A fax sent to WESB and The HERO by Olean Police Lt. Robert Blovsky says they and New York State Police "are in the initial stages of the investigation and information at this time will be limited." You can see the neighborhood by going to Google .

Reports of Stolen License Plates

Bradford City Police on Monday looked into reports of stolen license plates form Vista Circle and Stone Avenue. They also went to a motor vehicle accident on East Main Street, a parking complaint on Bushnell Street and a traffic complaint on West Washington Street, according to the complaint report and request sheet faxed to WESB and The HERO by the police department. Police also received a couple of noise complaints from Bushnell Street and a report of a disturbance on Welch Avenue. They were also asked to remove a person from East Corydon Street and look into a juvenile disturbance on School Street.

More Code Enforcement Woes in FT

By ANNE HOLLIDAY WESB/WBRR News Director Different municipality. Same question. Why is code enforcement complaint driven? South Kendall Avenue resident Barb Price again on Monday asked Foster Township supervisors what’s being done about the “deplorable” conditions on her road and other areas in the township. Supervisors said letters have been sent out to several property owners about the problems. But Price still had a question. “Why is it that the citizens have to be the ones to complain about these conditions in the township when we have the township workers that are up and down the roads? The police can see them,” she said. “I don’t think that I have to be a watchdog for the township.” Supervisor Jim Connelly, who took a drive with Price to see some of the problem properties, asked Police Chief Jeff Wolbert and Road Supervisor Joe Sweet to report abandoned cars, junk and other problems. He said if they report the problems, the supervisors will make sure code enforcement officer John

New Store at Bradford Mall

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Yes, work on the former CVS store at the Bradford Mall means a new store is moving in. During Monday’s Foster Township Supervisors meeting, supervisor Jim Connelly formally announced that the new store is moving in, which means new jobs. After the meeting, he said the store is LabelShopper . The store’s website says it sells "bargain, name-brand clothing at amazing prices." The closest LabelShopper to Bradford right now is in St. Marys. Connelly said he is happy that the company is uisng a local contractor to do work on the new store. “They didn’t outsource everything and bring their own crew in,” he said. He said it’s been his experience in his time as supervisor that the owners and manager of the mall are “more than willing to work with (Foster) Township and I think they’re showing a significant change – that they do care about our community. They do care about our economic base.” “It looks like things are moving up,” he said, adding that he’s not going to let up on the own

Fatal Crash in St. Marys

A St. Marys man is dead after an accident at noon Monday on West Theresia Road. St. Marys Police say 40-year-old Richard Sarnoski was riding his motorcycle when he entered a right, uphill curve and crossed the center line. He left the road, hit an embankment and a mailbox. Sarnoski was pronounced dead at the scene by Elk County Deputy Coroner Burt Sorg. Police say Sarnoski was not wearing a helmet.

Fatal Crash Victim ID'd

State Police have now identified the man killed Saturday morning in Cattaraugus County. They say 20-year-old Kevin Stafford of Cherry Creek was westbound on Route 322 at about 7 a.m. when his vehicle went off the road and hit a tree. Troopers say he had just gotten off work at Crosby's in Little Valley, and was near South Dayton when the crash happened. Stafford was pronounced dead at the scene.

Drillers Beat #1 Team in Tourny

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The Bradford Drillers baseball team today beat the Number One team in the Cooperstown, New York, tournament. They beat the team from Houston, Texas, 5-4 in eight innings. A double play by Andrew Bacha and Andrew Peterson ended the game. The Drillers are 3-1 in the tournament.

National Night Out on Tuesday

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Bradford City Police Chief Christopher Lucco, Lisa Keck and the Bradford National Night Out Committee members encourage residents to spend the evening of August 3, 2010 out and about with your fellow neighbors in recognition of the 27th annual National Night Out. Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW), National Night Out (NNO) was conceived with the aim of empowering community residents, and as a unique tool against criminal and drug activity. Along with traditional displays of outdoor lights and front porch vigils celebrations of National Night Out also features activities such as block parties, cookouts, parades, flashlight walks, exhibits, contests, youth programs and visits from local police departments. Goals of National Night Out include creating a heightened awareness of crime and drug prevention efforts, as well strengthening neighborhood spirit. NNO 2009 involved over 36 million people in 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cit

Frank Williams Sports Blog: Notes on the Bills and Steelers

Frank Williams Sports Blog: Notes on the Bills and Steelers : "New Bills Coach Chan Gailey is making all of his offensive linemen wear knee braces during training camp practices. This is a great idea. ..."

DEP Fines Talisman for Polluting Water

WILLIAMSPORT -- The Department of Environmental Protection has fined Talisman Energy USA Inc., of Horseheads, N.Y., $15,506 for a spill of used natural gas drilling fluids last November at its Klein gas well pad in Armenia Township, Bradford County that polluted a small, unnamed waterway. The spill involved hydraulic fracturing flowback fluid, which is the substance that returns to the surface after a company injects the pressurized fluid underground to fracture, or “frack,” a geologic formation and extract natural gas. “DEP’s investigation in late November 2009 determined that Talisman spilled between 4,200 to 6,300 gallons of fracking flowback fluids when a pump failed and sand collected in a valve,” said DEP North-Central Oil and Gas Program Manager Jennifer Means. The fluids flowed off the well pad and toward a wetland, and a small amount ultimately discharged to an unnamed tributary to Webier Creek, which drains into the upper reaches of the Tioga River, a cold water fishery. Tali

Borland Receives $4,000 Scholarship

As college students everywhere prepare to start a new semester, the National Association for the Self-Employed has made the tuition bill easier to pay for Alex R. Borland, a graduate of Bradford Area High School, with a $4,000 college scholarship. The scholarship award can be used to defray the cost of tuition, which has risen to an average of $7,020 per year for four-year public colleges, and $26,273 per year for private schools, according to the College Board. Alex will enter studies at the University of Pittsburgh this fall. Alex is the son of Robin Borland, a member of the National Association for the Self-Employed. The NASE is an association dedicated to bringing educational resources, consolidated buying power and legislative advocacy to the self-employed. The NASE awarded 20 scholarships worth $4,000 each this year as part of its scholarship program. In addition, because of the NASE’s mission of supporting entrepreneurs, the flagship award of the association’s Scholarship Pro

From WESB.com

(posted by Frank Williams) August 02, 2010 08:08AM Woman Combative With Salamanca Police A Latrobe, Pennsylvania woman was arrested early Saturday morning and charged with DWI under Leandra's Law, because her 9-year old son was in her vehicle. Salamanca police say that after they arrested 48 year-old Katherine Kappel she became combative and injured an officer. Police say Kappel also smeared blood in a city jail cell. She was sent to the Cattaraugus County Jail on $3,000 bail. August 02, 2010 08:08AM Salamanca Man Charged After Domestic Incident A Salamanca man was arrested late Saturday night after a domestic incident on Hancock Street in Salamanca. Police say 32 year-old William Henry was charged with harassment and criminal mischief. Henry was jailed on bail. August 02, 2010 08:08AM Portland Man Punches and Kicks Deputies Chautauqua County sheriff?s deputies had to use pepper spray Sunday on a Portland man who punched and kicked them after an accident in Brocton. Six deputies we

August is Book Giveaway Month

If you're a fan of WESB's on Facebook you'll have a chance to win copies of books written by best-selling authors including Janet Evanovich, Diana Palmer, Emilie Richards and Philippa Gregory. What do you have to do to win? 1.Be a Facebook fan 2.Be the first to answer when I ask if you a copy of the book. Simple as that! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bradford-PA/WESB/179146704098

Sunday Book Talk
Janet Evanovich 'Sizzling Sixteen'

It was my pleasure to speak with best-selling author Janet Evanovich about the newest book in her Stephanie Plum series, "Sizzling Sixteen." Listen here . For more information go here .

This Week's JAMA Report

Bariatric surgery complications associated with low volume hospital and surgeon procedure rates: Listen here . And here's last week's report: Opt-out rapid HIV screening identifies only slight increase of new cases in emergency department settings: Listen here . The JAMA Report is a weekly medical news service from the Journal of the American Medical Association.