Annual Marilla Winter Trek on Sunday

There’s no better way to beat the winter doldrums than to tackle the great outdoors.

That’s exactly what the Tuna Valley Trail Association members had in mind when they created the Marilla Winter Trek. In its second year, the Marilla Winter Trek provides an outlet for those who want to hit the trails.

This year’s event will be held Feb. 13 from noon to 4 p.m. on the trails surrounding the Marilla Reservoir. That’s when people can explore any of the five trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or hiking.

This year, there will also be three new activities - ice skating on the reservoir, ice fishing and a geocache contest.

There’s also plenty to do off the ice.

For the novices out there, the association will provide cross-country skiing and snowshoeing equipment plus instruction to get you started.

Event organizers wanted to provide people with an outlet to enjoy the outdoors as well as utilize the trail system.

Free refreshments and a bon fire will be provided by the trail association.

For more experienced cross-country skiers, there will be free shuttles to the top of the Marilla Springs Trail for the four-mile trip back to the reservoir.

For more information on the Marilla Winter Trek, call Gene Cornelius at 814-362-9928 or Rick Lutz at 814-362-2323.

Pictured, this family gets ready to snowshoe at last year’s inaugural Marilla Winter Trek. This year’s event, set for Feb. 13 at the Marilla Reservoir, will also include ice skating and geocaching as well as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking.

Police Called to Assault, Fight, MVAs

Bradford City Police had their hands full over the weekend. They looked into a report of an assault on East Main Street and criminal mischief on West Washington Street, according to the complaint report and request sheet faxed to WESB and The HERO by the police department.

They were also called to motor vehicle accidents on Route 219 and on Euclid Avenue and a fight on Mechanic Street. Officers got reports of blocked driveways on Park and Jefferson streets and someone who was possibly driving under the influence on West Washington Street.

Officers checked out a burglary alarm on Chautauqua Place, a suspicious person on South Avenue and a suspicious vehicle on High Street.

Horne to Address Pitt-Bradford Graduates

Internationally renowned opera legend and Bradford native Marilyn Horne will address the graduating class of 2011 at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford at the May commencement ceremony.

Horne, whose foundation sponsored a series of recitals by rising opera singers at Pitt-Bradford and who served as honorary chairwoman of the campaign to build Blaisdell Hall, will deliver the keynote address during commencement exercises at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 1, in the KOA Arena of the Sport and Fitness Center.

“Marilyn Horne’s legendary journey from rural Pennsylvania to international renown in the world of opera makes her the perfect choice to give the commencement address this year, especially as our graduates prepare to face a much more competitive and economically challenging environment,” said Dr. Livingston Alexander, Pitt-Bradford president.

“Throughout her magnificent career, Ms. Horne has inspired young men and women to discover their talents in the arts and other endeavors and to maximize their potential. I’m confident our graduates will draw inspiration from her in much the same way that thousands of other young people in this country and throughout the world have been inspired by her.”

Last year, Horne’s foundation donated its archives to Pitt-Bradford. She has agreed to donate her personal archives collection to Pitt-Bradford as well. Discussions are under way to bring the entire collection to Pitt-Bradford and the University of Pittsburgh.

Horne was born in Bradford in 1934 and has retained a soft spot in her heart for her hometown.

Since her retirement from performing in 1998, she has returned to Bradford to perform for the Bradford Creative and Performing Arts Center and to attend the opening of Blaisdell Hall, for which she helped to raise $3.4 million toward its construction.

Bradford has in turn embraced its native daughter, naming a street in her honor. Pitt-Bradford commissioned a bronze bust of Horne to grace the lobby of Blaisdell Hall, which is home to Pitt-Bradford’s programs in broadcast communications, public relations and fine and performing arts, and the Bromeley Family Theater.

In 2000, Pitt-Bradford honored Horne with its Presidential Medal of Distinction, and in 2004, she became the first person to receive an honorary degree from the University of Pittsburgh at a regional campus.

While Horne was growing up in Bradford, her father, Bentz Horne, encouraged his daughter to pursue her musical dreams. She moved with her family to Long Beach, Calif., when she was 11 and made her debut when she was 20 at the Los Angeles Guild Opera.

Following her father’s death in 1956, she traveled to Europe, performing in many productions and receiving rave reviews.

She sang professionally for more than 40 years, becoming not only a star of the opera world, but also an ambassador to pop culture through appearances on “The Odd Couple,” “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson,” “Carol Burnett and Friends” and “Sesame Street.”

In 1994, she formed the Marilyn Horne Foundation to nurture and champion not only young opera singers, but also the art of vocal recital. The foundation sponsored recitals for young singers at several locations, including Carnegie Hall and Pitt-Bradford, before becoming part of the Marilyn Horne legacy at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute.

In 2007, the Metropolitan Opera Guild chose Horne as the honoree for the inaugural presentation in its “Met Legends” tribute series. At the same time, she was battling pancreatic cancer with the help of an experimental treatment at Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center. She was declared to be cancer-free in 2008.

Pictured, Horne posing with a bronze bust of herself that was dedicated during the opening of Blaisdell Hall, Pitt-Bradford’s arts and communications program.

Scarnati, Gabler Ask PUC to Hold Meeting on Area Code in DuBois

Senator Joe Scarnati and Representative Matt Gabler announced today that they have recently been in contact with the Public Utility Commission (PUC) in regard to proposed changes to the 814 area code coverage. With the recent rise in cell phone usage, the PUC is studying options to address a potential shortage in phone numbers for the 814 area code.

One plan being reviewed would create a new 582 area code for use in some parts of Northwestern Pennsylvania. Another option would be an “overlay” plan which would allow those now using a phone number with an 814 area code to keep their current number, while assigning the new 582 area code to new phones throughout the region.

Both men have asked the PUC to hold a public hearing on the issue in DuBois within the next few months. The PUC has agreed to hold such a hearing and is currently coordinating the logistics.

“This is an issue of vital importance to residents and businesses located within the 25th Senatorial District,” said Scarnati. “I am glad the PUC has agreed to listen to the voice of the people potentially affected by this situation before making a decision on the matter.”

"I am very glad that the PUC has agreed to take another look at their plan for the future of the 814 area code” said Gabler. “The ability of people to communicate efficiently and effectively is of vital importance to the quality of life and economy of our region.” He continued, “We must make every effort to consider the potential consequences any plan may have on jobs, commerce, and the ability of local citizens to find and access the essential services and businesses in our communities as well as their families, friends and neighbors."

Scarnati and Gabler both said they would inform the public when the PUC has set a date and location for the hearing. Both men plan to attend the hearing to hear their constituents’ thoughts and ideas on the issue.

The Polite Robber

SBU Students, Faculty Member Attend Kennedy Center College Theatre Festival

Nine St. Bonaventure students and a faculty member spent five days immersed in theater productions and workshops during the 43rd annual Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (Region II) at Towson University in Maryland Jan. 11-15, 2011.

They joined 1,200 college students and faculty from across Ohio, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and New York at the festival, where they saw student work in acting, directing, dramaturgy, playwriting and design; had the opportunity to audition to rehearse and perform in new 10-minute plays and student directing institute scenes; and participated in various competitions.

They saw student work in acting, directing, dramaturgy, playwriting and design; had the opportunity to audition to rehearse and perform in new 10-minute plays and student directing institute scenes; and participated in various competitions.

Becky Misenheimer, assistant professor of theater in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts and a theater designer, attended the festival with the following students:

· Mary Best, a freshman journalism/mass communication major from Alden;

· Cameron DeOrdio, a senior journalism/mass communication major from Nedrow, N.Y.;

· Mike Dlugosz, a junior English major and theater minor from Orchard Park;

· Monica Edwards, a junior English major from Binghamton;

· Tara Gillis, a freshman theater major from Gowanda;

· Erin Lowry, a senior theater and journalism/mass communication major from Shanghai, China;

· Brooke Perkins, a freshman theater major from Utica, Ohio;

· Ashley Waterman, a senior theater and English major from Dunkirk;

· and Emily West, a sophomore journalism/mass communication major and theater minor from Vestal, N.Y.

DeOrdio, Waterman and West also attended last year’s festival, hosted by Indiana University of Pennsylvania.


Misenheimer, a member of the regional festival’s Design, Tech and Management (DTM) task force, was invited to present a workshop at the festival titled “Dying for the Art: Health and Safety in the Theater.” She is also a regional respondent for Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) and served on the play selection committee, which chose the productions presented at the festival.

As a result of their work in the fall SBU Theater production “Dracula,” several of the St. Bonaventure students were invited to compete in various ways at the festival:

· Erin Lowry and Tara Gillis were invited to compete in the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship competition. They chose Mike Dlugosz and Ashley Waterman, respectively, to compete with them as their scene partners.

· Emily West entered her costume design for “Dracula” in the Regional Costume Design competition, and Monica Edwards entered her stage management materials in the regional Stage Management competition. Both students’ materials were on display in the Design/Tech Exhibits for the length of the festival, and both students received personalized feedback from a panel of professional theater designers and technicians.

“Dracula” was presented on campus in October as a KCACTF Associate Production.


“It was wonderful to be surrounded by theater workshops and shows for five straight days, especially from other universities because it showed the other types of talent and styles of (theater) programs in our region have,” said Lowry.

Freshman Mary Best agreed.

“My favorite part about the festival was the opportunity to see a multitude of high-quality student productions. I saw six plays and an original musical, all of which were performed by talented actors and actresses. I learned more about acting in theater simply by observing their performances. Interacting with them offstage provided a great chance to share stories and indulge in camaraderie,” said Best.

“... My experience at the festival was one I will never forget,” added student Ashley Waterman. “The opportunity to go to shows, workshops, and meet other people who are involved in theatre is amazing. In the time we spent there, I was able to attend acting workshops and see more plays then I've been able to see in a long time. I also feel like we're a closer group of students now. The time spent there really let us get to know each other pretty well.”

Several of the students participated in a cattle call audition held on the first full day of the festival. As a result of these auditions, Emily West and Brooke Perkins were cast in Student Directing Institute (SDI) scenes. Throughout the week of the festival, West and Perkins participated in daily rehearsals with SDI student directors, culminating in a performance of their scenes on the final day of the festival.

Perkins played the role of Steph in a scene from Neil LaBute’s “Reasons to Be Pretty,” directed by Kelly Weatherald of James Madison University. West played the role of Sonya in a scene from Anton Chekhov’s “Uncle Vanya,” directed by Chris van Patten from the University at Buffalo.

The St. Bonaventure students attended a variety of workshops, including Accents and Dialects, Cold-Reading Auditioning Techniques, and Special Effect and Fantasy Make-up Techniques for Stage and Film.

Each student also had the opportunity to see as many as nine fully produced plays presented from schools from across the region, including a brilliantly hilarious production of Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off,” performed by an entirely deaf cast from Gallaudet University.

More information about the festival is available on the Region II website at www.kcactf2.org.

Pictured, Emily West’s “Dracula” Costume Design Display at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (Region II) at Towson University in Maryland

Allegany-Limestone Earns Top Honors

Allegany-Limestone students earned top individual and team honors in the regional MATHCOUNTS competition, hosted by St. Bonaventure University on Saturday, Feb. 5.

MATHCOUNTS is a national contest for sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students. Contestants worked both individually and in four-person school teams on questions designed by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), the main sponsoring organization.

The three schools competing, along with their coaches, were: Allegany-Limestone Middle School (Kathy Stamets), Cheektowaga Central School (David Guzzino), and Tapestry Charter School from Buffalo (Garett Farrugia).

Other organizations providing financial support for the contest at the national level include CNA Foundation, National Defense Education Program, Northrup Grumman Foundation, Raytheon Company, Texas Instruments, 3M Foundation, ThinkFun, and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Locally, the contest was financially supported by St. Bonaventure University and an anonymous grant. The top school teams and the top individuals received trophies. The top three teams have been invited to the New York state competition, to be held March 19 at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute campus in Troy, N.Y. The top individuals from the state contest will advance to the national competition May 5-8 in Washington, D.C.

Top Individuals:

1st — TJ McMullen (Allegany-Limestone Middle School)

2nd — Zachary Darrow (Allegany-Limestone Middle School)

3rd — Ryan Dukarm (Tapestry Charter School, Buffalo)

Top Schools:

1st — Allegany-Limestone (Zach Darrow, TJ McMullen, Garrett Johnson, Rajiv Thandla)

2nd – Cheektowaga (Kaitlyn Fedele, Curtis Stuart, Anthony Fazzino, Jessie Cecere)

3rd — Tapestry Charter (Ryan Dukarm, Madeleine Callanan, Maggie Gelen, Matt Dukarm)

Tortugas Binge Bowl 2011

Saturday was the first-ever Tortugas Binge Bowl presented by 100.1 The HERO. Igor took on challenger Zach Ruth to see who could eat the most tacos in 15 minutes.

Here, Igor gets pumped up before the contest.

Igor greets a young fan.

Zach gives Igor the evil eye.

Zach flexes his muscles as Tortugas owner Jeremy Callinan looks on. Jeremy was a judge, too.

Zach, holding his Binge Bowl trophy, gets congratulations from a fan. Yes, he beat Igor by eating 10 tacos to Igor's 7.

Video to follow ... and you won't want to miss it!

Photos by Amanda Kleps and Anne Holliday

First FDA-Approved Cancer Treatment Vaccine Available at Roswell Park

BUFFALO, NY — The nation’s first FDA-approved cancer treatment vaccine, Provenge (sipuleucel-T), is being offered for the first time in Western New York at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI). The vaccine is designed for men with advanced prostate cancer who have limited treatment options and who meet eligibility requirements. “It’s the first time we are able to offer immunotherapy with an FDA-approved product,” says Roberto Pili, MD, Chief of the Genitourinary Section in RPCI’s Department of Medicine.

Provenge represents a new approach to cancer treatment — using vaccines to trigger the patient’s own immune system to attack cancer cells. RPCI patients who receive Provenge will have immune cells purified from their blood; this process will take place at the American Red Cross headquarters in Buffalo. The immune cells will then be shipped to a central lab, where they will be combined with a specific protein (an antigen) that stimulates the immune cells to recognize and kill prostate cancer cells.

The resulting vaccine, custom-created for each patient, will be shipped to RPCI to be administered intravenously, in three doses, approximately two weeks apart. Because the vaccine uses the patient’s own immune cells, “there are no serious allergic reactions,” notes Dr. Pili. Potential reactions include fever and flu-like symptoms, “but these are rare. This is a generally well-tolerated procedure.”

Dr. Pili says patients will be evaluated at RPCI to ensure that they meet the eligibility requirements. These include: a diagnosis of prostate cancer that has spread to the bones or other areas outside the prostate; few or minimal symptoms of the disease; and disease that has recurred despite treatments to reduce levels of male hormones, or androgens, which help fuel the growth of prostate cancer. A study published in the July 29, 2010, issue of The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that Provenge significantly extended overall survival for men in this category, whose disease is incurable.

Dr. Pili says RPCI researchers hope to conduct clinical trials that will combine Provenge with other types of treatment, with the goal of improving the effectiveness of the vaccine therapy. “This is just the beginning,” he says. Pamela Germain, MBA, Vice President for Managed Care and Outreach, says RPCI will work closely with healthcare payers to ensure that treatment costs will be preauthorized for eligible patients.

Provenge is the first FDA-approved vaccine for the treatment of cancer. For more information about Provenge eligibility and other treatment options available at Roswell Park, call 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724).

Call 1-800-FIX-ROAD to Report Potholes

Number is for state roads only, not local

Harrisburg – With the freeze-thaw cycle taking its annual toll on pavement, PennDOT urges motorists to call 1-800-FIX-ROAD (1-800-349-7623) to report the location of potholes on state roads.

Callers are asked to be as specific as possible when reporting pothole locations. For state routes, callers must report the county, municipality, street name, or preferably the state route (SR) number found on small, black-and-white signs posted along state roadways. Callers should also offer a description of any familiar landmarks that will help PennDOT find the problem area.
The hotline may be used to report any maintenance concern on state roads such as potholes, deer removal or signage issues.

Once notified, PennDOT will work expeditiously to address concerns when weather permits; however, winter services remain the primary focus of maintenance crews at this time of year.To report potholes on local roads, motorists should contact the municipality in which the pothole is located.

Potholes develop when water seeps below the road through small cracks in the pavement surface. As the water repeatedly freezes and thaws, a cavity below the road is formed and larger cracks develop, causing the pavement to crumble. The 1-800-FIX-ROAD hotline should not be used to report traffic accidents, disabled vehicles or other emergencies. Motorists should continue to call 911 to report those types of incidents. Follow PennDOT on Twitter at www.twitter.com/PennDOTNews.

Boarding for Breast Cancer on February 12

Holiday Valley Resort announces the third annual Boarding for Breast Cancer event on February 12, 2011.

Boarding for Breast Cancer is a non-profit fundraising foundation that focuses on education, especially in the areas of early detection and the value of an active lifestyle. The B4BC foundation seeks to engage youths by partnering with snow communities like Holiday Valley to raise awareness about breast cancer among young people. The Boardroom Board Shop in Ellicottville is Holiday Valley’s partner in presenting this event, and sponsors are Holiday Valley Realty/ Rental Management and Buffalo MRI.

Events during the day include women’s only snowboard clinics on learning to snowboard, riding the parks, or freeriding, a ‘Breast Trick’ rail park event open to men and women, a silent auction (featuring a Danny Kass autographed snowboard), Chinese auction, music and bar specials. Participants may register for the event between 11 AM and noon in the Overlook rooms at upstairs in the Clubhouse Chalet. The registration fee for any and all events is $40, and participants may purchase a specially priced lift ticket for $30. Participants are also invited to demo equipment from local shops. The goal of the event is to raise awareness about breast cancer and early detection by focusing on what women can do to keep themselves healthy.

In addition to the on-snow events, Holiday Valley is offering many more ways to show your support for Boarding for Breast Cancer. Through February 12, guest may purchase a “Pink Lift Ticket” and donate a dollar to B4BC. Supporters will get a pink ribbon sticker for their ticket or season pass. Buy a B4BC heart at the Holiday Valley Bars or Customer Service for $1. Pink lawn flamingoes will be cropping up at lift bases where you can vote for your favorite lift: the lift with the most flamingoes wins a pizza party for the lift attendants. Raffle tickets for gift baskets will be available on February 13th in the Clubhouse and John Harvard’s Bars. The Boardroom is decorating their shop with paper bras. Customers can “purchase” a bra for a donation. The higher the donation, the larger the size!

Proceeds from the Holiday Valley Boarding for Breast Cancer event will benefit the Women’s Oncology Program at Camp Good Days on Keuka Lake in Branchport, NY as well as the Boarding for Breast Cancer Awareness Programs. The Women’s Oncology Program is a residential camping experience, which was begun in 1996 in order to bring together women who have gone through or are going through cancer to share their experiences and to strengthen and rebuild their physical and emotional well being. Through donations from its supporters, the Women’s Oncology Program is able to offer its camping sessions free of charge to its participants.

For more information about Boarding For Breast Cancer at Holiday Valley, please contact Kristen Sciara at 716-699-3905 or email ksciara@holidayvalley.com.

Boy Behind 'Darth Vader' Unmasked

Super Bowl XLV Zippo Lighters Available

Zippo celebrates the Green Bay Packers with the release of two limited edition, NFL Super Bowl XLV Champions lighters.

Commemorating the Packers' historic win at the new Cowboys Stadium in North Texas, the Zippo Super Bowl XLV Champions windproof pocket lighters will be available in high-polish chrome with either a color imaged or luster etched design. Both lighters will feature the logos of the Packers and Super Bowl XLV.

"We're proud of our longstanding partnership with the National Football League and to have the opportunity to offer football fans around the world these limited edition Super Bowl XLV Champions lighters," said Gregory Booth, CEO and President, Zippo Manufacturing Company. "With Zippo's superior craftsmanship, and designs which are sure to impress, these are a must have for any Green Bay Packers fan looking to celebrate with their team on last night's win."

The color imaged and luster etched NFL Super Bowl XLV Champions Zippo windproof pocket lighters are available now at www.zippo.com and will retail for $32.95 and $35.95 respectively.

One Book BradfordActivities Start with Open Book Club Talk

By Sandra Rhodes

The suspense is over – or perhaps just beginning – as the activities for this year’s One Book Bradford season have been set

“Still Life” by Louise Penny of Quebec, Canada, was chosen for this One Book Bradford season. In its fourth year, One Book Bradford is a community-wide reading initiative in which a book is picked and the community is encouraged to read it. Several activities are held throughout the season, which culminates with a visit from the author.

“We sought activities that would interest people as well as encourage local residents to read our One Book Bradford selection,” said chairperson Pat Shinaberger.

The first One Book Bradford activity for this year is book club meeting open to the public, which will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, in the community room at the Bradford Area Public Library.

Dr. Anita Herbert will lead the discussion. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Bradford Area Public Library. Admission is free.

The next event for One Book Bradford — Murders in our Valley — is a two-part event set for 2 p.m. Saturday, March 19, in the community room at the Bradford Area Public Library.

A representative from the McKean County Historical Society will give a presentation on local murders titled tales of Murders in the Bradford Area.

Dr. Tony Gaskew, a professor of criminal justice at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, will talk of Insights to Modern Day Sleuthing Techniques drawing inspiration from “Still Life.”

Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Bradford Area Public Library.

From 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 10, the committee will host a Three Pines Mystery Tea at the First Presbyterian Church.

An enticing murder mystery will be served along with an array of sweet and savory refreshments.

Tickets will be $10 a piece and will be available for purchase in advance at Grandma’s House Teas & Gifts on Congress Street.

As with each One Book Bradford season, the culminating event will be a visit by Penny at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 3, in the Mukaiyama University Room at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.

Penny will give a talk – “Three Pines” and Beyond - and will be available for a book signing. Refreshments will follow. Admission to the author visit is free.

“Still Life” is the first book in Penny’s Three Pines Trilogy.

This year, the committee also wanted to challenge the readers and encourage them to read each book in the Three Pines Trilogy, which include “A Fatal Grace” and The Cruelest Month.”

Penny is an award-winning author, who recently won the Anthony Award for Best Crime Novel for “The Brutal Telling.” The Anthony Awards honor the best in mystery writing. The book also won the Agatha award for Best Crime Novel. This is the third year in a row Penny won, the first time an author has won three years in a row.

The American Library Association named “Bury Your Dead” the Best Mystery of 2010.

Sunday Book TalkPamela Callow's 'Indefensible'

Listen here.

Find more information at Pamela Callow.com

Anderson Cooper Reports from Egypt

The Second City to Perform at UPB

Not many will be left out from being made fun of during The Second City’s show later this month at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.

At least not politicians, celebrities and significant others.

The Second City’s Fair & Unbalanced show will start at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18, in the Bromeley Family Theater in Blaisdell Hall. Cost is $20 to $24 for the public and $8 to $10 for students. The world’s premier comedy club’s performance is part of the university’s Prism series.

“No one knows what the performance will be like exactly, but it will be witty, fun, entertaining and never the same way twice,” said Randy Mayes, director of arts programming at Pitt-Bradford. “Many skits are where the framework of the plot is set, but the ultimate resolution is improvised. Seeing where the cast takes it is always exciting. There will also be some audience participation in each show, so people should realize there will probably be calls for volunteers at some point.”

The approximate two-hour show’s lineup includes a medley of classic scenes, songs and improvisational. Some scenes were written by the troupe’s famous alumni, including Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, Stephen Colbert and Tina Fey.

Five cast members will take to the stage in the performance. Sandy Marshall, a director with The Second City, said the performance focuses on political and social satire.

“You are really looking at tomorrow’s stars today,” Marshall said.

Mayes said, “Every generation of The Second City ensembles launches some of its cast into stardom, and I am sure this group will be the same. People should come to the show and take note of who is in it so they can tell people they knew so-and-so before they became a superstar. I guarantee it will happen. We just don’t know who it will be yet, but it will be fun to speculate after we watch the show.”

The New York Times hailed The Second City as “a temple of satire.” Vanity Fair magazine called it “Improv’s Harvard.”

“They are the absolute tops in their field,” Mayes said. “Everyone else tries to copy them, but the rest are just vying for the runner-up slot. The Second City is simply the top comedy ensemble in North America, and they have the alumni to prove it.”

The Second City has taken to the stage for more than a half a century. The troupe performs in Chicago, Toronto, Hollywood and across the country. Other famous alumni include John and Jim Belushi, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Mike Myers, John Candy, Chris Farley, Joan Rivers, Alan Arkin, Eugene Levy, Dan Akroyd, Ed Asner, Rick Moranis, Amy Poehler and Martin Short.

For more information, visit www.secondcity.com.

Tickets are available by leaving a message at the Box Office at (814) 362-5113.

District Judge Luther to Seek Re-Election

Richard W. Luther, Jr. will seek nomination for re-election as Magisterial District Judge for District 48-3-03 in the May 2011 Primary Election. Luther will seek representation on both the Republican and Democratic ballot. District 48-3-03 includes Bradford, Foster, Corydon and Otto townships and the borough of Lewis Run. The position has a six-year term that begins in 2012.

Luther is a lifelong resident of Bradford and began his career in law enforcement in 1982 when he attended the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Institute for Criminal Justice Training Center and graduated from the regional police academy and began working part time for the Foster Township Police Department.

Luther was hired in January 1984 as a full time officer for the Bradford Township Police Department. At the time of his retirement in 2006, Luther had attained the rank of lieutenant.

Additional law enforcement experience includes employment with Corydon Township as well as the Campus Police Department of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. He also served as a member of the North Central/McKean County Drug Task Force and was a deputy sheriff of McKean County.

A graduate of Bradford Area High School, Luther has received extensive training and continuing education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Mercyhurst College and the Attorney General’s Office of PA.

Luther has also had the opportunity to work with representatives of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation and representatives from Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York State Police Departments.

Since elected to the position of Magisterial District Judge, Luther has successfully met all mandatory requirements for annual re-certification as a district judge. In addition to mandatory training Luther has also participated in voluntary continuing education programs offered through the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.

Luther is a member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #67, National Rifle Association, Exchange Club of Bradford, Bradford Township Lions, Pennsylvania Special Court Judges Association, and was a former republican committee member for district #3 of Bradford Township.

Luther has volunteered for the United Way of the Bradford Area and other worthwhile community projects.

The son of Richard Sr. and Bettie Luther, Luther lives in Bradford Township with his wife, Kristen, and their two children.

Marilla Winter Trek Next Sunday

The second annual Marilla Winter Trek at the Marilla Reservoir is next Sunday (February 13) from noon to 4 p.m.

You can cross country ski, snowshoe, ice skate, geocache or walk the Marilla Trails.

It also includes shuttles to the top of Marilla Springs Trail, guided snowshoe hikes to the White Pines, lessons in showshoeing and cross country skiing.

The Tuna Valley Trails Association is also providing free refreshments -- hot dogs, hamburgers, hot chocolate and mulled cider.

The entire event is free and open to the public.

For more information you can listen to Monday's LiveLine with Rick Lutz and Gene Cornelius on 1490 WESB or online at WESB.com at 12:35 p.m.

Tweet & Twirl 'Twerrible Towel'

Motorists Keep Bradford Police Busy

Motorists – on the road and parked – kept Bradford City Police busy on Thursday. They investigated motor vehicles accidents at Oxford Street and Oakwood Avenue, and at Bolivar Drive and Seaward Avenue. They also got a traffic/road complaint on North Kendall Avenue and parking complaints from Avenue B, Elm Street, Merrow Avenue, Interstate Parkway and East Main Street, and a report of an erratic driver on Mechanic Street.

Also according to the complaint report and request sheet faxed to WESB and The HERO by the police department, officers got reports of a dispute on South Avenue, harassment on High Street and criminal mischief on Davis Street. They were also called to a couple of domestic disputes and received several requests to speak with an officer.

Paula Deen Coming to Shea's in Buffalo

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. – Tops Friendly Markets and its long-standing partner, Smithfield, are proud to bring Paula Deen Live! to Buffalo, NY on April 20, 2011. Paula Deen will host a two-hour interactive cooking show, live on-stage at Shea’s Performing Arts Center.

From February 6 through March 5, Tops shoppers can register their BonusCards at www.topsmarkets.com, and every time they check out at any Tops store they’re automatically entered for a chance to win a Paula Deen Live! VIP package, including a meet-and-greet with Paula Deen, an autographed cookbook and two tickets to see Paula Deen Live! on April 20, 2011. Each time Tops shoppers purchase any Smithfield product using their registered Tops BonusCard, they are automatically given 10 extra chances to win.

“We’re very excited to be part of the team that’s bringing Paula Deen to Buffalo,” said Frank Curci, Tops’ president and CEO. “I’d like to thank our partners at Smithfield for presenting this opportunity to Tops, and for helping us offer Tops shoppers the unique opportunity to meet Paula personally.”

The two-hour show will be Paula Deen’s first appearance in Buffalo and is part of the successful restaurateur, best-selling cookbook author, Food Network superstar, and multi-media personality’s new touring production. She is known for being warm, engaging, charming and full of sage advice, tart observations, sweet recollections and spicy humor. And yes, she cooks, too.

Deen will be joined on-stage by her husband Michael Groover as they interact with audience members, answer questions, and entertain while preparing Deen’s famous southern, country cuisine.

“We’re so happy to partner with Tops for this event and with our spokesperson, Paula Deen,” said Dennis Pittman, Smithfield’s Director of Corporate Communications. “The show is sure to bring a little Southern flare to blustery Buffalo.”

Tickets will go on sale to the general public beginning on February 11. Available prices are $44.75 for reserved seating and $100.00 for VIP tickets that include an opportunity to meet Paula Deen before the show. Tickets may be purchased at Shea’s Box Office, 650 Main Street (Mon-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-2), and participating Ticketmaster outlets, including Macy’s stores, by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

Prayer Service Planned for Fr. Gerald McCaffrey

The St. Bonaventure University community is mourning the death of the Rev. Gerald McCaffrey, OFM, a professed Franciscan for 58 years and a priest for 52, who died Jan. 31 at St. Anthony Friary.

The 79-year-old friar spent more than 25 years in various positions at the University, serving as a chaplain, professor, moderator of athletics and vice president for student affairs. He also ministered at Western New York high schools Archbishop Walsh and Bishop Timon.

A viewing at 9 a.m. and a 10 a.m. prayer service are planned for Saturday, Feb. 5, at the St. Bonaventure University Chapel, Doyle Hall.

For more information, go to SBU.edu.

'Pug Attack' & Other Super Bowls Ads

The Key to a Steelers Win?

Little Baby Cheeseheads

Moscato Named to Gaming Control Board

Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati announced today that Tony Moscato of Cameron County will be named to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Moscato will serve a two-year term beginning February 14, 2011.

“I am pleased to announce that Tony will serve in this capacity, and I fully expect him to oversee the operations of gaming in the Commonwealth in an honorable, diligent manner,” Scarnati said. “Given Tony’s experience in balancing the demands of public office with the understanding of true oversight was critical in the decision-making process.”

According to Scarnati, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is made up of seven Commissioners who oversee the regulatory framework of the gaming industry in Pennsylvania. As President Pro Tempore, Scarnati is responsible for naming one of those members. Members of the board appointed by legislative leaders are only eligible to serve three two-year terms. Recently, the position was held by Mr. Ken McCabe.

“Ken served on the board admirably, and I sincerely thank him for his service,” Scarnati added. “Certainly, Ken has seen the board through many challenging times, and I wish him nothing but success in his future endeavors.”

Scarnati also mentioned that Tony Moscato has served in public office as a Commissioner in Cameron County for four terms and recently held a top staff position in the Lieutenant Governor’s office. Moscato is a graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

“In knowing Tony, I have always found him to be energetic in serving the needs of his constituency, and he will provide a level of trust that is vital in overseeing this essential industry,” Scarnati stated. “I am sure that Tony will prove to be an effective communicator and voice for a more open, transparent board.”

“I am honored and humbled that Senator Scarnati has named me to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board,” Moscato stated. “It goes without saying that my
Moscato Press Release Page 2

decisions on this board will reflect an understanding of what is in the best interest of the citizens in Pennsylvania. In addition, I will continue to look for other avenues which can further enhance the gaming industry; thereby benefitting the taxpayers of the Commonwealth.”

In addition to Senator Scarnati, Senator Jane Earll and Senator Robert Tomlinson also were pleased with the selection of Moscato.

“It is my belief that Senator Scarnati made the right choice in naming Tony to the Gaming Control Board,” Tomlinson stated. “Tony’s experience in both local and state government will assist the board in resolving the complex issues that arise between facilities and their surrounding host and non-host municipalities.”

“I have had the opportunity to interview Mr. Moscato and I believe his intellectual curiosity, thoughtful counsel and diverse life experience will bring a unique perspective to the Board,” Earll added.

Man Indicted for Assaulting FBI Agents

A Clarion County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly assaulting two FBI agents last month.

21-year-old Emerson Begolly of Mayport is accused of biting both of the agents, and drawing blood, while they were attempting to question him as part of an ongoing investigation.

Begolly also had a loaded 9mm semi-automatic handgun during the assault.

Begolly has posted jihadist songs and poetry online including an original song on YouTube that pays tribute to Osama Bin Laden.

He is charged with three counts of violating federal firearms laws and could face up to life in prison.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/paw/pr/2011_february/2011_02_02_01.html


The photo is from his MySpace page.

Casey Statement on January Jobs Report

WASHINGTON, D.C - U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Chairman of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC), released the following statement after the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ January jobs report showing that the unemployment rate declined to 9.0 percent and 36,000 total nonfarm jobs were added:

“Today’s jobs numbers show some encouraging signs. The number of unemployed Americans dropped by 600,000 and the unemployment rate declined. In the past 12 months, we’ve added more than 1.2 million private sector jobs. The January growth in manufacturing employment reinforced positive news we received earlier in the week, when the ISM Manufacturing Index reached its highest level since May 2004.

“These numbers also remind us, however, that we have a long way to go to get back to pre-recession employment levels. While the unemployment rate declined, 13.9 million people were unemployed in January and another 8.4 million were working part time although they would prefer full-time work. The construction sector, which had been hit even before the Great Recession began, continues to be a drag on employment growth.

“It is clear that we must do more to boost job creation and strengthen our economy. As Chairman of the JEC, I look forward to hearing from a broad range of business leaders and economists about what more can be done to spur innovation, encourage startups and foster additional job growth.”

Thompson Calls For Comprehensive Energy Plan After Obama Visits Penn State

Today, President Obama traveled to the 5th District of Pennsylvania to deliver remarks on America’s energy policy and the work being done at Penn State University through the Energy Innovation Hub. After greeting the President on the tarmac at the University Park Airport and attending his remarks, Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (PA-5) issued the following statement:

“It was an honor to have President Obama visit the Commonwealth to highlight Pennsylvania’s Energy Innovation Hub and the tremendous research being done at Penn State University on energy efficiency. Unfortunately, without a comprehensive plan that also includes making better use of existing resources and expanding our domestic production, situations like that in Egypt will continue to underscore the need to cease America’s reliance on foreign energy. Our prosperity as a nation is dependent upon access to sustainable, low-cost energy, and l will continue to push for a comprehensive energy plan that meets these demands, promotes American energy, and builds a foundation for long-term economic growth and security.” – Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson

Thompson currently serves on the House Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Education & Workforce Committees. In addition to these committee assignments, Thompson was recently appointed Chairman of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Energy & Forestry, with jurisdiction over soil, water, and resource conservation, energy and bio-based energy production, rural electrification and forestry.

Senator Casey Fighting to Keep EAS Alive

Senator Bob Casey is fighting against an amendment to eliminate the Essential Air Service program, which subsidizes air service to small airports, including Bradford Regional.

Casey and three other senators sent a letter to Senator John McCain, who introduced the amendment, and asked him to give up his attempt to kill the program.

Last year, about $8.8 million in federal funding was provided to ensure air service in Bradford, DuBois, Oil City, Altoona, Johnstown and Lancaster.

Casey says EAS helps lure businesses and boost tourism and eliminating it would cripple economies.

For more, including the letter sent to McCain, go to Casey's website.

Vandals Damage Signs in Forest

United States Forest Service Law Enforcement is offering a reward of up to $250 for credible information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for vandalism to three signs in the Marienville area of Forest County.

During the months of December 2010 and January 2011 an unknown actor(s) cut down two large signs and shot fifteen bullet holes in a third. The signs are all located in the Marienville area of Forest County and intended to advise the public about roadways that are open to travel in the Allegheny National Forest. It is believed that all three incidents are related.

If you have any information regarding these criminal acts please contact United States Forest Service Law Enforcement at 814-927-5797 or 814-927-5700. All information will remain confidential.

Virgin Mary Statue at Ohio Lending Library Reportedly Sheds Tears

Anderson Cooper Attacked in Egypt

Corbett, Walker Wager on Super Bowl

Harrisburg – Governor Tom Corbett and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker have announced a good-natured wager on the outcome of Sunday’s Super Bowl™ matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Green Bay Packers in Dallas.

The governors agreed to a two-part wager that will be fun and help charity at the same time. Both governors will participate in the “Coke Cheers” promotion that will donate $25,000 to the Boys and Girls Clubs in Green Bay and in Pittsburgh.

“Coke Cheers” is a nationwide promotion aimed at supporting the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The public can visit www.cokecheers.com to vote for their favorite team. Each vote – or cheer – equals a $1 donation by Coca-Cola to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. The governors are challenging each other to get their fans out to generate the 10,000 cheers needed to qualify for the $25,000 in each city.

If the Steelers lose, Governor Corbett will attend the check presentation in Pittsburgh wearing Packers’ gear. Should the Packers lose, Governor Walker will attend the check presentation in Green Bay wearing Steelers’ gear.

To up the ante, the governors also are wagering a traditional basket of products made in their states. If the Packers win, Governor Corbett will send Governor Walker a basket filled with made-in-PA products that will include:

· Eat’N Park Smiley Face Cookies; Black and Gold Steelers Colors
· Penn Pilsner Beer
· Sarris Candies
· Asher’s Chocolates
· Seltzer’s Double Smoked Meat
· Bachman’s Snacks
· PA Mushrooms, Apples, Honey and Maple Syrup
· Hammond’s Hard Pretzels
· Miller’s Mustard
· Wolfgang Chocolate
· Maser Pantry Jelly & Jam
· Kelchner’s Hot Mustard
· PA Wine
· Boyd and Blair Vodka
· Heinz Ketchup

Many of the products in the wager basket are PA Preferred Products. PA Preferred is the Department of Agriculture’s branding program that helps consumers easily identify Pennsylvania-made products through the program’s logo, which is a gold checkmark in a blue keystone. For more information about PA Preferred, visit http://www.papreferred.com/.

If the Steelers prevail, Governor Walker will send Governor Corbett:
· Extra Aged Pleasant Ridge Reserve Cheese
· Rehorst Premium Milwaukee Vodka
· Roaring Dan’s Maple Flavored Rum
· Frozen Tundra Wine
· Tundra Red Wine
· 3-pound chocolate football, hollowed out and filled with handmade chocolates
· One pair of Koss headphones
· Beer ‘n Brat Horseradish Mustard.
· Whole Grain Mustard
· Sassy Horseradish Sauce Prepared Cocktail Sauce
· Bottle of Peninsula Red Wine
· Bottle of Peninsula White Wine

Governor Corbett -- a lifelong Steelers fan -- is predicting the Steelers will win the big game by a score of 31-28.

“I’m looking forward to a great game and watching my team take home the Vince
Lombardi trophy for the seventh time,” said Corbett.

Mayor Bloomberg Hoists 'Terrible Towel'

Towel-Hoisting Video

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg followed through with his end of the wager with Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl on the AFC Championship game between the Steelers and the Jets.

Bloomberg placed a Terrible Towel on the New York Public Library this morning. He then put on a Steelers jersey while putting together care packages for members of the military returning to Pittsburgh.

Route 6 Near Warren Closed

Route 6 is closed in both directions from Nelson Hill Road to Miles
Run Road in Pittsfield Township, Warren County, due to a two-vehicle crash.

PennDOT says road is expected to reopen by 12:30 p.m.

Police Look into Report of Burglary

Bradford City Police are investigating a burglary on Mill Street, according to the complaint report and request sheet faxed to WESB and The HERO by the police department.

Officers also looked into disturbances on Main Street and Homestead Avenue, a vehicle complaint on Route 219 and a parking problem on Pleasant Street.

They went to motor vehicle accidents on Pleasant Street and Route 219 and assisted Bradford Township Police with an alarm at a South Avenue business.

Senator Casey: Stop Billing Victims of Sexual Assault for Rape Kits

WASHINGTON, DC— U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) joined a bipartisan group of Senators in introducing the Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act of 2011 to ensure that survivors of sexual assault are never billed or forced to pay for their own rape kits. Under current law, states and localities can bill victims for their rape kits so long as those individuals are subsequently reimbursed. Victims billed under this provision are then forced to navigate the maze of insurance companies and state crime victims’ funds to get reimbursed. The bill, introduced by Senators Al Franken (D-MN) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA), is also cosponsored by Sens. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Burr (R-NC) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT).

“The Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act will make it easier for rape victims to seek justice by removing red tape that forces victims to pay for rape kits and helping local law enforcement reduce their backlog of untested rape kits,” said Senator Casey. “By requiring reporting of backlogs, we will create more transparency and accountability in the process and hopefully allow victims to begin healing more quickly.”

"Survivors of sexual assault should not suffer the indignity of paying for their own rape kits,” said Sen. Franken. "This legislation will stop this practice once and for all, and will ensure that assailants are brought to justice.”

“There’s a problem when rape kits sit on shelves for years at a time, while perpetrators roam the streets potentially harming others. The delays we’re seeing are unacceptable, so we’re working to end the backlog and help victims of sexual assault find justice in a timely manner," Sen. Grassley said.

“Thousands of rape kits sit untested in police storage facilities nationwide,” said Sen. Feinstein. “This is lost justice for rape victims. Testing DNA evidence in rape kits is a crucial tool to help law enforcement arrest and prosecute rapists. The Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act will make sure that victims are no longer denied the necessary tools for justice.”

“The least we can do for victims of sexual assault is ensure that law enforcement does everything in its power to promote the cause of justice and make the reporting process for victims and their families as painless as possible,” said Sen. Bennet. “Too often rape kits are not processed, are backlogged or become contaminated over time. This bill will help ensure that never happens.”

“There is no legislation we can introduce that would erase the trauma of what a rape victim has gone through, but we should at least be able to ensure that we don’t add unnecessary burdens on top of that trauma,” said Sen. Burr. “This legislation takes positive steps by tackling the backlog of rape kits awaiting DNA testing and addressing billing hassles these victims should not have to face.”

The bill will also help clear the backlog of untested rape kits around the country. In 2004, Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) teamed up with then-Senator Joe Biden (D-DE) and others to enact the Debbie Smith Act, named after a rape survivor whose backlogged rape kit went untested for six years after her assault. That act provided federal funding for the testing of backlogged DNA evidence.

The Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act of 2011 would prohibit the current practice—permitted by federal law—that allows jurisdictions to bill rape victims and then force victims to seek reimbursement from state crime victims’ funds. It would also require jurisdictions receiving Debbie Smith funds to report backlog levels to the Department of Justice and specify how much of their Debbie Smith grant funds have been used to analyze DNA from sexual assault cases.