One Kwik Fill Robber Arrested

Bradford City Police have arrested a man who they say admitted to his part in a robbery at the East Main Street Kwik Fill Friday night.

Chief Chris Lucco says 18-year-old Kyle Eck approached police this morning and told them about his involvement in the planning and execution of the robbery. He also confirmed details police knew to be true, Lucco said in a news release.

Eck admitted that his involvement was to drive his co-conspirators -- 18-year-old Alex Hayes and a male juvenile – to and from the scene. Eck is charged with robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, tampering with evidence and theft.

Eck also led officers to the location of the clothing that was worn by his co-defendants during the crime and this clothing was, in fact, identified by officers as what was seen in the video surveillance obtained from the store.

An arrest warrant for Alex Hayes was issued today by District Judge Dominic Cercone for robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, theft and simple assault.

Anyone with information as to Hayes whereabouts is asked to contact the City of Bradford Police Department at 814-887-4911 or www.cityofbradfordpolice.com.

"I would like to thank the members of the public for the information they provided to our department without the assistance of concerned community members it would make our mission substantially more difficult," Lucco said. "I would also like to thank all of the officers involved in the investigation for a job well done. "

The robbery happened at just before 9 o'clock Friday night when Hayes and the male juvenile brandished a knife and told the clerk to give them the money in the cash register. They got away with nearly $400.


Pictured, Alex Hayes. Police believe Hayes has shorter hair at this time.

Murray Found Guilty

Dr. Conrad Murray has been found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson.

Murray faces up to four years in prison and the loss of his medical license when he's sentenced on November 29, according to CNN. His bail has been revoked and he is being taken to jail.

Murray was Jackson's personal physician as the pop star prepared for his comeback concerts. Murray gave Jackson the surgical anesthetic propofol to help him sleep nearly every night for the last two months of his life, according to testimony.

Deliberations by the jury of seven men and five women began Friday after a 23-day trial and lasted for about 10 hours.

Verdict in Dr. Conrad Murray Case

Verdict to be Announced at 4 p.m.

CNN reports that jurors have reached a verdict in the trial of Dr. Conrad Murray, who is charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson.

From CNN: Murray was Jackson's personal physician as the pop star prepared for his comeback concerts. Murray gave Jackson the surgical anesthetic propofol to help him sleep nearly every night for the last two months of his life, according to testimony.

Jackson's death on June 25, 2009, was caused by "acute propofol intoxication" in combination with two sedatives, the Los Angeles County coroner ruled.

Jury deliberations began Friday morning in the downtown Los Angeles County courthouse.

The seven men and five women on the jury heard 49 witnesses over 23 days, including investigators and medical experts for each side, Jackson's former employees, and Murray's girlfriends and patients.

The prosecution argued that Murray was responsible for Jackson's death because his reckless use of propofol to treat Jackson's insomnia in the singer's home wa s criminally negligent.

Defense lawyers said the matter was a negligence case that should instead be heard by the state medical board.

Jurors were left to decide whether the propofol overdose was infused into Jackson's blood by a steady intravenous drip, as the prosecution said, or whether Jackson injected himself using a syringe that Murray left near the singer's bed, as the defense argued.

Go to CNN.com for continuing coverage on this breaking story.

Asteroid Coming Relatively Close to Earth

It sounds like something out of the movies "Armageddon" or "Deep Impact," but a 1,300-foot wide asteroid will pass within 202,000 miles of Earth on Tuesday.

There's no need to call Bruce Willis, though.

NASA says the asteroid, named 2005 YU55, poses no threat of a collision with Earth. You won’t even be able to see the asteroid – which is about the size of an aircraft carrier – without a huge telescope.

The next time an object this large will be this close to Earth will be in 2028 when asteroid 2001 WN5 flies by.

http://www.nasa.gov/

Two Jailed After Salamanca Drug Bust

Two Olean residents are in jail after a drug bust in Salamanca.

22-year-old Larry Peterson and 33-year-old Adele Flores were arrested after the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force executed a search warrant in Salamanca. They did not give the address. Police found about an ounce of suspected cocaine and 50 packets of suspected heroin, as well as drug paraphernalia and marijuana.

Peterson and Flores were taken to Cattaraugus County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail each.

Findley Lake Hotel Robbed

Someone robbed the Holiday Inn Express in Findley Lake at gunpoint early this morning.

Sheriff’s deputies say at just before 5:30 a man went to the front desk of the hotel, threatened the clerk with a semi-automatic pistol and demanded money. The man drove away with an undisclosed amount of money.

The suspect is described as a white male, age 20 to 30, 5 feet 8 inches to 6 feet tall, weighing about 180 to 190 pounds, with grayish-blue eyes and light freckles over the bridge of his nose.

Info on the Scandal at Penn State

News Conference at 1 p.m. Today

HARRISBURG - Attorney General Linda Kelly and Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Frank Noonan announced that criminal charges have been filed against three Centre County men as the result of an extensive and wide-reaching grand jury investigation into reports of the sexual abuse of children.

The defendants include:

Gerald Arthur "Jerry" Sandusky, age 67, of 130 Grandview Road, State College, former Defensive Coordinator for the Penn State University football team and founder of The Second Mile, a charitable organization that operates programs for young people.








Timothy Mark Curley, age 57, of 201 Meadowlark Lane, Boalsburg, the Director of Athletics for Penn State University.












Gary Charles Schultz, age 62, of 636 Rosslyn Road, Boalsburg, Senior Vice President for Finance and Business at Penn State University, a position that includes oversight of the Penn State University Police Department.








"This is a case about a sexual predator who used his position within the university and community to repeatedly prey on young boys," Kelly said. "It is also a case about high-ranking university officials who allegedly failed to report the sexual assault of a young boy after the information was brought to their attention, and later made false statements to a grand jury that was investigating a series of assaults on young boys.

"I hope people will understand that any suspicion of sexual abuse should be reported to the police," Commissioner Noonan said. "Sexual abuse is a serious issue and children are often scared to tell anyone about the abuse - many cases are hidden for years - but by informing the police they can stop it."

Kelly and Noonan said that evidence was presented to an investigating grand jury, which recommended the criminal charges that were filed today. Testimony was heard from numerous victims and others who observed or reported suspicious activities, along with the submission of local and state records from the University Police, Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare and Children and Youth Services offices.

Kelly said the investigation by Pennsylvania State Police and the Attorney General's Office was initiated by a referral from then Centre County District Attorney Michael Madeira. Originally, the case focused on the claims of "Victim 1," a young boy who reported that Sandusky had indecently assaulted him and engaged in various sex acts while the boy was a house guest at Sandusky's home in College Township, Centre County.

Kelly said the victim first encountered Sandusky through the Second Mile program, when he was 11 or 12 years old, attending a Second Mile camp on the Penn State University campus. Sandusky also allegedly used expensive gifts to maintain contact with the boy, including trips to professional and college sporting events, golf clubs, a computer, clothing and money.

According to the grand jury, Sandusky used overnight visits at his home to make physical contact with the boy, typically at bed time. The victim testified that Sandusky's advances began with "back cracking" and rubbing, later progressing to Sandusky performing sex acts on the boy and having the boy engage in similar activity with him.

Kelly said that Sandusky also allegedly used his position as a volunteer coach at a high school in Clinton County in order to continue contacting the victim, often calling the boy from study hall to have unsupervised "meetings" with Sandusky.

The grand jury also heard testimony from a wrestling coach at the high school about an unusual evening encounter at the school, where Sandusky was discovered lying face-to-face with the boy in a secluded weight room. Other high school officials testified that Sandusky was "clingy" and "needy" in his reaction to situations where boys he was supposedly mentoring would break-off their relationships, describing the behavior as "suspicious."

The grand jury noted that Sandusky was barred from the school district attended by the victim in 2009, after the boy's mother reported allegations of sexual assault to the school. That matter was promptly reported to authorities, as required by Pennsylvania law - a report that marked the start of an extensive investigation by Pennsylvania State Police and the Attorney General's Office.

The quick action by high school staff members in Clinton County in response to reports of a possible sexual assault by Sandusky is in marked contrast to the reaction of top officials at Penn State University, who had actually received a first-hand report of a sexual attack by Sandusky seven years earlier.

"One of the most compelling and disturbing pieces of testimony in this investigation came from an eyewitness to a late-night sexual assault that allegedly occurred in March of 2002, in the locker room of the Lasch Football Building on the University Park Campus," Kelly said. "Hearing what sounded like sexual activity in the showers of a building that was supposed to be empty, a graduate assistant reportedly observed Sandusky sexually assaulting a naked boy who appeared to be about 10 years old."

According to the grand jury, the graduate assistant had returned to the football building that evening to put a new pair of sneakers in his locker and to retrieve some recruiting films, only to be surprised that the lights were on in the locker room and showers were running. The assistant immediately recognized Sandusky.

Kelly said the assistant, who was extremely upset about what he had seen, immediately called his father to relate what he had discovered. Together, the two decided that the assistant should promptly report the incident to head football coach Joe Paterno.

The next morning, the assistant telephoned Paterno and then went to Paterno's home to explain what he had seen. Paterno testified that he then called Penn State Athletic Director Tim Curley and met with Curley the following day, explaining that a graduate assistant had reported seeing Sandusky involved in sexual activity with a young boy in the showers at the Lasch Building.

Kelly said that approximately one and a half weeks later, the graduate assistant was called to a meeting with Curley and Gary Schultz, who was Senior Vice President for Finance and Business at the University. At that time, the assistant again recounted what he had witnessed Sandusky doing to a young boy in the showers of the football locker room.

"Despite a powerful eyewitness statement about the sexual assault of a child, this incident was not reported to any law enforcement or child protective agency, as required by Pennsylvania law," Kelly said. "Additionally, there is no indication that anyone from the university ever attempted to learn the identity of the child who was sexually assaulted on their campus or made any follow-up effort to obtain more information from the person who witnessed the attack first-hand."

Kelly said that rather than reporting the matter to law enforcement, Curley and Schultz agreed that Sandusky would be told he could not bring any Second Mile children into the football building. That message was also reportedly related to Dr. John Raykovitz at the Second Mile (Past Executive Director and Executive Vice-President and currently the President and CEO of the Second Mile).

"Despite this so-called 'ban', which was reviewed and approved by University President Graham Spanier without any further inquiry on his part, there was no effective change in Sandusky's status with the school and no limits on his access to the campus," Kelly said. "Sandusky's 'emeritus' position, alleged negotiated as part of his 1999 retirement, provided him with an office in the Lasch Football Building; unlimited access to all football facilities, including the locker room; access to all recreational facilities; a parking pass; a university Internet account; listing in the faculty directory and numerous other privileges - he had remained a regular presence on campus."

During testimony before the grand jury, Schultz acknowledged that he was aware of a 1998 University Police investigation that also involved allegations of sexually inappropriate behavior involving Sandusky and young boys in the football showers, but did not pursue the matter further and did not seek any additional review in light of the new report in 2002.

The grand jury also noted that the 1998 report involving Sandusky and boys in the showers was reviewed by University Police and Child Protective Services, with the blessing of Wendell Courtney, who at the time served as University Counsel and was (and remains) counsel to The Second Mile - though no criminal charges were ever pursued.

Kelly said the grand jury determined that Curley and Schultz had provided false testimony while discussing their response to the 2002 report of a child sexual assault in the football showers.

Specifically, the grand jury found that Curley committed perjury in repeatedly denying that he had ever been told that Sandusky had engaged in sexual misconduct with a child.

Additionally, assertions by Schultz that the allegations concerning Sandusky were "not that serious" and that he and Curley "had no indication that a crime had occurred" were in direct contradiction to other testimony and constituted perjury.

The grand jury found that portions of the testimony provided by both Curley and Schultz were not credible.

"The failure of top university officials to act on reports of Sandusky's alleged sexual misconduct, even after it was reported to them in graphic detail by an eyewitness, allowed a predator to walk free for years - continuing to target new victims," Kelly said. "Equally disturbing is the lack of action and apparent lack of concern among those same officials, and others who received information about this case, who either avoided asking difficult questions or chose to look the other way."

Kelly said that despite the false testimony and "uncooperative atmosphere" encompassing some Penn State University and Second Mile officials, investigators from the Attorney General's Office and State Police gradually uncovered a pattern of other potential sexual assaults by Sandusky.

The grand jury eventually identified a total of eight young men who were the targets of similar sexual advances or assaults by Sandusky, starting in 1994 and continuing through 2009. All of the victims first encountered Sandusky through Second Mile activities.

Kelly and Noonan explained that the search continues for additional victims and this case remains an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators from the Office of Attorney General at 814-863-1053 or Pennsylvania State Police at 814-470-2238.

Sandusky is charged with the following offenses:

Seven counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, all first-degree felonies which are each punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
One count of aggravated indecent assault, a second-degree felony punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
Four counts of unlawful contact with a minor, all first-degree felonies which are each punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
Four counts of unlawful contact with a minor, all third-degree felonies which are each punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Four counts of endangering the welfare of a child, all third-degree felonies which are each punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Four counts of endangering the welfare of a child, all first-degree misdemeanors which are each punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Eight counts of corruption of minors, all first-degree misdemeanors which are each punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
One count of indecent assault, a third-degree felony punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Four counts of indecent assault, all second-degree misdemeanors which are each punishable by up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Two counts of indecent assault, all first-degree misdemeanors which are each punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
One count of attempt to commit indecent assault, a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Sandusky was taken into custody today in Centre County and preliminarily arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Leslie A. Dutchcot, who released him on $100,000 unsecured bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for November 9th.

Curley and Schultz are each charged with one count of perjury, a third-degree felony punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine, along with one count each of failure to report (under the Child Protective Services Law), a summary offense punishable by up to 90 days in prison and a $200 fine.

Curley and Schultz are scheduled to surrender on Monday, November 7th, before Harrisburg Magisterial District Judge Marsha Stewart.

Sandusky will be prosecuted in Centre County, while Curley and Schultz will be prosecuted in Dauphin County, all by Senior Deputy Attorney General Jonelle Harter Eshbach of the Attorney General's Criminal Prosecutions Section.

Kelly thanked the Pennsylvania State Police for their extensive assistance with this joint investigation.

Cookbook Author John SchlimmTries His Hand at Fiction

By SANDRA RHODES

A St. Marys man known for his cookbooks using beer brewed up a book in a whole different genre – fiction.

John Schlimm released his book “Twang” as an e-book. “Twang,” which delves into the world of country music, is not that different from the cookbooks he’s written to date, Schlimm said.

“I think the very core of who I am is that I am a storyteller,” he said. “Even a cookbook tells a story. It tells a story of a great party.”

Schlimm said it was just a natural progression that would lead him to eventually tell the story of country music since he knows the industry intimately have being a publicist in Nashville for two years.

“It’s an incredible, magical place. Rarely do people think how incredible Nasville is, especially behind the scenes.”

And, Schlimm said, it’s never been written before.

“Twang” tells the story of a sister duo, who aren’t what they seem, as well as a husband and wife duo, who also are not what they seem. There’s a reporter who presents himself as a friend to the stars, but in reality, is ready to write a book that will shoot the stars right off the stage. And, of course, there’s a publicist who has to deal with the problems that crop up.

“The $1 million question one everyone’s mind is if these characters are based on anyone in particular or a figment of Schlimm’s imagination. He said many in the industry, including Page Six” have had fun trying to figure out who’s who.

Schlimm coyly says “Twang” is a work of fiction.

“This is not a hatchet job,” he said. “It’s actually a love letter to the country music industry.”

He said that he does not work from an outline, but his writing starts from a theme or word.

“I don’t know where the story is going and that’s scary. I just hope it goes somewhere.”

By why “Twang” as a title?

“It says so much about the book. That one word is what the book is all about.”

Or, perhaps, is something subliminal for the descendant of Peter Straub, founder of Straub Brewery, to name his book something that also has a beer connection. Twang beer salt is used to enhance Mexican beer.

The book is available only as an e-book any place e-books are available. Schlimm said this is fitting since e-books are on the cutting edge of the publishing world and “country music is always on the cutting edge.”

Also, this makes the book available instantly to readers worldwide at a relatively inexpensive price.

“I love that idea – not a not of money for a great read.”

Schlimm’s favorite character is the heroine, Salome Field, who “redefines the concept of over the top.”

But as Schlimm points out, many of the starts are over the top and have not been in the real world for quite some time.

“It’s a publicist’s job to make sure they never have to be in the real world again.”

In Schlimm’s real world, work continues on a new book where he goes back to his roots – a cook book. “The Tipsy Vegan: 75 Boozy Recipes to Turn Every Bite into Happy Hour” is set to come out later this month.

“I like to create a party in a book. I hope everyone likes it.”

Deadly Weekend on Area Roads

A two-year-old boy is dead after the Amish buggy he was riding in was hit by an SUV on Route 62 in Leon.

Sheriff’s deputies say the SUV driven by 59-year-old Susan Culver of Frewsburg hit the buggy from behind. Dan Wengerd was pronounced dead at the scene.

31-year-old Edna Wengerd of Leon was operating the buggy. She along with her daughters, 6-year-old Sarah and 1-year-old Rebecca, were taken to Women and Children’s Hospital in Buffalo. Two boys, 3-year-old Andy and 3-month-old Roy, were taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital in Dunkirk. 9-year-old Johnny was not hurt.

Culver was not hurt. Deputies are continuing their investigation.

~~~~

A James City man is dead following a motorcycle crash Sunday on Route 66 in James City.

Police say 61-year-old David Newpher lost control of his bike, which hit a guide rail. Newpher, who was not wearing a helmet, was thrown from the bike.

He was flown to UPMC Hamot, where he later died from his injuries.

~~~

A Crosby man is dead after a one-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon on Christian Hollow Road in Norwich Township.

State Police say a flatbed farm truck driven by 54-year-old Richard Bucholz went off the road and crashed. Bucholz was thrown from the truck and pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger, 33-year-old Michael Taylor of Smethport suffered unspecified injuries.

Police are continuing their investigation.

Change Your Clocks

Comments by ZingerBug.com

Sunday Book Talk with Philippa Gregory

I recently had the pleasure of welcoming best-selling author Philippa Gregory back to the show. We talked about two of her new books, "The Lady of the Rivers" and "The Women of the Cousin's War."

One of the many things I love about Philippa's books is that they are filled with history, and I learn so much and enjoy a great story while doing it.

You can listen to our chat here.

To learn more about Philippa and her books go to PhilippaGregory.com.

Saturday Stylewith Hannah Keeley

Last winter put words like "snowpocalypse" and "snowmageddon" in our vocabulary and, according to AccuWeather.com's winter forecast, this winter could be just as harsh.

Hannah Keeley, host of the PBS series "Hannah Help Me," says you and your kids can still be stylish while staying warm this winter.

Listen here.

To learn more about Hannah, and get more of her tips, go to HannahKeeley.com.

Book Talk ExtraBring Me Home for Christmas

I'm posting an extra "Book Talk" this week because best-selling author Robyn Carr is hosting an extra special contest.

Here's what Robyn says:

In response to my desire to honor our men and women who serve and their families, Harlequin Enterprises is hosting a wonderful contest. Between now and December 15 we are asking military families to submit their own homecoming stories for a chance to win amazing prizes. The first place prize will be a family vacation for up to four people, anywhere in North America or the Caribbean, courtesy of Armed Forces Vacation Club; a $500 gift card from Wal-Mart, a family photo session and a signed copy of Bring Me Home for Christmas. The entry form and rules are at www.HoldOutForAHero.com. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges at Harlequin.

You can listen to my conversation with Robyn here.

Look for tomorrow's "Book Talk" with best-selling author Philippa Gregory.

Andy Rooney Dead at 92

Andy Rooney, the "60 Minutes" commentator known to generations for his wry, humorous and contentious television essays died today, according to CBS News.

He was 92.

From CNN:

He had been hospitalized after suffering "serious complications" following minor surgery last month.

Rooney got his start in journalism during World War II, when he wrote for the Stars and Stripes, and he joined CBS in 1949 as a writer for Arthur Godfrey's radio and television entertainment show.

He went on to collaborate between 1962 and 1968 on a series of essays with his friend, the late newsman Harry Reasoner.

He joined "60 Minutes" in 1978, according to CBS, beginning decades of show-ending essays on topics as varied as looking for a job ("We need people who can actually do things. We have too many bosses and too few workers. More college graduates ought to become plumbers or electricians, then go home at night and read Shakespeare."); his bushy eyebrows ("I try to look nice. I comb my hair, I tie my tie, I put on a jac ket, but I draw the line when it comes to trimming my eyebrows. You work with what you got."); the "shock and awe" campaign that started the Iraq War in 2003 (the phrase "makes us look like foolish braggarts.")

Rooney announced on October 2, 2011, in his 1,097th essay for "60 Minutes" that he would no longer appear regularly.

For more on this story go to CNN.com.

Guns Taken in Austin Break-Ins

Police in Potter County are investigating two burglaries in Austin where guns were stolen.

Someone entered the home of LouAnn McNally sometime between September 30 and last Friday and took two rifles and a shotgun.

Sometime last weekend someone entered the home of Linda Yaras through an unlocked window and stole a handgun and prescription medication.

Anyone with information on either of these incidents is asked to contact Coudersport-based state police at 274-8690.

Bradford Kwik Fill Robbed

The Kwik Fill on East Main Street in Bradford was robbed Friday night.

At just before 9 o’clock two young white males entered the store and told the cashier to give them all the money in the register, and threatened her with what is believed to be a knife.

They got away with an undetermined amount of cash.

Anyone with information about this incident should call Bradford City Police or use the confidential tipline at City of Bradford Police.com.

Man's Skull Fractured in Assault

A Sherman, New York, man is accused of hitting another man in the head with a glass jar, which fractured his skull and broke a bone in his neck.

22-year-old Kyle Langer and a 21-year-old man were arguing over money on October 19 when the assault happened. The victim had to be taken to UPMC Hamot, where a plate had to be put in his head.

Sheriff’s deputies say they have been investigating for the past two weeks and arrested Langer at 9 o’clock this morning, when he allegedly admitted to the assault. He’s in Chautauqua County Jail on $5,000 cash bail.

PA Medical Society:State Made Right Decision on Texting Bill

The following is a statement from Marilyn Heine, MD, president of the Pennsylvania Medical Society, regarding Pennsylvania Senate Bill 314, a bill that bans texting while driving. Dr. Heine is an internal medicine specialist who practices both hematology oncology and emergency medicine.


The Pennsylvania Medical Society applauds the state legislature for recently passing a bill that would ban drivers from texting while driving. The bill, sponsored by Senator Robert Tomlinson R-Bucks, will help make the roads safer for all of us.

Earlier this year, The Patient Poll, a survey of Pennsylvania adults age 21 and older sponsored by the Pennsylvania Medical Society, showed overwhelming public support for a texting ban while driving. Nearly 86 percent of those participating in the poll believed that Pennsylvania should pass a law to make texting while driving a violation for which police can stop a driver and issue a ticket.

We’ve all seen stories in the news of horrible automobile accidents caused by an inattentive driver too busy texting than keeping eyes on the road. As an emergency room physician, let me tell you that I’ve seen the sad result of such accidents.

Many anticipate Governor Corbett signing SB 314, and the Pennsylvania Medical Society encourages him to do so.

Sunshine Report for Septemter

Township Association Applauds Corbett for Signing Bid-Limit Legislation into Law

Townships in Pennsylvania will finally see a change in long-outdated bid limit laws thanks to a bill signed today by Gov. Tom Corbett.

Act 84 of 2011, effective January 1, will increase the minimum dollar amount that requires townships to advertise and seek bids for purchases and contracts. By upping the current threshold from $10,000 to $18,500, the law means that fewer local purchases will fall under the state’s cumbersome and bureaucratic bidding procedures. It will also mean that more local tax dollars will be invested where they would do the most good: in local services and projects.

“PSATS applauds the governor’s swift action in signing this legislation,” PSATS Executive Director David M. Sanko says. “For more than a decade, the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors has been urging lawmakers to pass common-sense legislation that would save municipalities statewide hundreds of thousands of tax dollars a year – money that could be put to better use in Pennsylvania’s communities.

“The last time the bidding provisions were amended was in 1990, and they have been frozen in time since then, not allowing for inflation and thus eroding the purchasing power of township government. Increasing the bidding threshold will make procurement more cost-effective and, as a result, will provide more choices that are advantageous to townships and their taxpayers.”

In addition to increasing the current municipal bid threshold, Act 84 will require townships to seek telephone quotes for purchases and contracts between $10,000 and $18,500. Any purchase a township makes that costs less than $10,000 will not be subject to the state’s bidding and advertising requirements. Also, the minimum bid amounts will be adjusted annually based on changes in the Consumer Price Index.

The Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors represents Pennsylvania’s 1,455 townships of the second class and for the past 90 years has been committed to preserving and strengthening township government and securing greater visibility and involvement for townships in the state and federal political arenas. Townships of the second class represent more residents — 5.5 million Pennsylvanians — than any other type of political subdivision in the commonwealth.

Provided by the Pa. State Association of Township Supervisors

Log Truck Hits Utility Pole

No one was hurt when a log truck hit a utility pole at about 4 o’clock this afternoon on Route 20 in the Town of Portland.

Sheriff’s deputies say the truck driven by 23-year-old Shane Newton of Ripley, New York, went off the road to avoid hitting an oncoming vehicle. The truck then hit a utility pole and a few trees.

Newton did not complain of any injuries but was taken to Westfield Hospital as a precaution. No charges are pending.

EPA Overreach with Chesapeake Bay Program Outlined During Hearing

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (R-PA), Chairman of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Energy, and Forestry today held a public hearing to review Phase II of the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Watershed Implementation Plans and their impact on rural communities.

Among the hearing panelists were Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Secretary, Michael Krancer, and Pennsylvania Farm Bureau President, Carl Shaffer.

The implementation of the TMDL is complex and far-reaching, affecting communities in six states and the District of Columbia. States are now in the second phase of a three-part process to limit discharge into the Bay and several of them have raised concerns about the cost and the regulatory burden they face in meeting the new limits. Witnesses testified that the process is being driven by flawed scientific modeling, arbitrary deadlines from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) instead of economic and scientific assessments. This creates major difficulties for states, municipalities, and Pennsylvania’s farmers attempting to meet EPA’s requirements.

Under the Rendell Administration, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection estimated that the cost of the TMDL, under the best case scenario, would cost the Commonwealth alone upwards of $8.7 billion.

“Because the Chesapeake Watershed TMDL is such a broad effort, and because of the costs imposed upon local communities, it is imperative for members of this subcommittee to understand what is being asked of the counties, towns and municipalities,” said Subcommittee Chairman Glenn 'GT' Thompson. “We all want to implement a plan that furthers restoration of the Chesapeake Bay, however, it must be equitable. It’s problematic that we still do not have a cost-benefit analysis of this process from EPA nor a sound model for a baseline measurement under the current plan. Ultimately, we must be certain that the federal government is not executing the facets of this plan in a heavy-handed manner, which will place undue burden upon states and localities, during a time when we need fewer hindrances to economic growth and job creation, not more.”

“Over the years significant progress has been made to reduce nitrogen and phosphorous pollution of local waters in Pennsylvania's watersheds,” said Secretary Michael Krancer, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. “It should be noted that EPA’s watershed model can be a useful tool to help guide management actions and project their results. It is not, however, sufficiently precise to measure actual progress or lack thereof. It should not be used in a regulatory context to determine whether an enforcement action or other penalty is appropriate.”

Secretary Krancer also wrote in his testimony: “We all share the core desire to keep up the progress on making the Bay even cleaner than it is now. While doing so, we do need to be mindful of how we are going to pay for this progress and what it is we are paying for. We need to be mindful of using available funds in an efficient and cost-effective manner so that we get the most ‘bang for the buck’ that we can and avoid spending a lot of “bucks” for very little “bang”. We also believe that it is important that the federal government “put its money where its mouth is” and if it is going to prioritize the Chesapeake Bay program, to appropriately also prioritize it among the competing voices for the pool of federal funding that is available to bring to the effort.”

“The demands that EPA is putting on Bay states in Phase II is further crippling states ability to devise a program that will encourage meaningful and effective long-term benefits, already hampered by the demands that EPA has already placed so far through EPA’s excessive TMDL regulation,” said Carl Shaffer, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau President. “EPA’s questionable modeling has not given taxpayers in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed reasonable assurance that the practices the model is directing the states to implement and the millions of dollars the states will need to spend to implement these practices will get it even close to the reduction goals EPA is demanding states to meet.”

Under Chairman Thompson’s leadership, this is the Subcommittee’s second hearing focusing on implementation of the Chesapeake Bay TMDL. The Subcommittee’s first hearing, "To review the Chesapeake Bay TMDL, agricultural conservation practices, and their implications on national watersheds," was held on March 16, 2011.

Impact Study of Fracking on Drinking Water Moves Ahead

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Chairman of the Joint Economic Committee, today released the following statement in response to the EPA’s announcement of a final plan to study fracking:

“This study will go a long way to reassure residents and establish safe practices that will help the industry expand and produce jobs,” said Senator Casey. “There is no doubt that natural gas drilling offers Pennsylvania a critical opportunity to fuel its economy and create jobs. It is imperative that we get this right so that we don’t jeopardize our chances for an economic boom.”

EPA previously identified seven case studies to help inform the assessment of potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing on drinking water resources. Two of the seven sites were selected as prospective case studies where EPA will monitor key aspects of the hydraulic fracturing process throughout the lifecycle of a well. These areas are located in:

Haynesville Shale - DeSoto Parish, La.
Marcellus Shale - Washington County, Pa.

Five retrospective case studies were selected and will examine areas where hydraulic fracturing has occurred for any impact on drinking water resources. These are located in:

Bakken Shale - Kildeer, and Dunn Counties, N.D.
Barnett Shale - Wise and Denton Counties, Texas
Marcellus Shale - Bradford and Susquehanna Counties, Pa.
Marcellus Shale - Washington County, Pa.
Raton Basin - Las Animas County, Colo.

One Book Bradford:An Enlightening Selection for This Year

The fifth season of One Book Bradford is the age of enlightenment, so to speak.

“Clara and Mr. Tiffany,” written by California-based author Susan Vreeland, invites readers to take a look inside the world where Tiffany leaded-glass lamps were created – and not by whom you may think.

The obvious reference of enlightenment lends itself to Tiffany lamps themselves. However, a little known fact is that the concept and design of the masterpieces were that of glass studio manager Clara Driscoll, not Louis Comfort Tiffany.

Vreeland delves into a world where Tiffany employs only single females in an effort to shield his business from strikes by an all-male union. These “Tiffany Girls” create the works that he is well known for.

In its fifth 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, including a visit from the author in the spring.

Vreeland is pleased that one of her works was chosen for Bradford’s community-wide read.

“I was thrilled to learn that Bradford had selected ‘Clara and Mr. Tiffany,’” Vreeland said. “It's a wonderful opportunity for me to reach all ages. That's what I like about community reads. The books selected become a platform for strangers to interact, often people of different age groups if the book is promoted in the public schools. In this way, a bagger at the grocery store and a woman in her upper years can have spontaneous, stimulating conversation, a teen baseball player introduced to the novel in his English class can relate to his coach in an entirely different dimension, a teen reading it for an English class can interact with that teen’s parent’s book club.”

Vreeland was drawn to the story of “Clara and Mr. Tiffany” after attending an exhibit at the New York Historical Society.

“I was enraptured by the lamps on display and intrigued by the story of this highly talented, vibrant New Woman of the turn of the century and her vital role at Tiffany Studios. Reading the catalog of that exhibition, I saw photos of the Tiffany Girls and longed to make them live as individual personalities in the reader's mind. I was impressed with Clara's level-headedness and her socially forward thinking.”
Vreeland creates a world that is a mixture of fact and fiction.

“By far the majority is fact, drawn from that catalog, biographies of Louis Comfort Tiffany, and Clara's extensive correspondence to her family,” Vreeland said, adding some characters were invented where others were developed further from what she had read about them.

Vreeland would like the reader to take away a love of the stained glass, but also for them to admire Clara and the other Tiffany Girls “who paved the way for women working in the decorative arts. I would like them to acknowledge her compassion … as a role model for social concerns of (her) own time. I'd like them to see that people of different persuasions and backgrounds can live together harmoniously.”

And don’t forget one of the greatest contributions Clara had – the lamps themselves.

“I don't believe the delicate, highly refined work of the floral lamps would have been done,” Vreeland said. “Since it is speculated that Clara conceived of leaded-glass lamps, I wonder whether they would every have come to be made at all.”
Vreeland said she writes about historical events because loves “dipping into the past.”

“There are so many rich narratives that can teach us through examples of strong yet sensitive individuals how to be better ourselves. An appreciation of the past enriches our present. Find out where we've come from in terms of social, religious, cultural, and political milieus helps us to understand our own time,” she said. “Historical fiction stimulates the imagination in ways of substance and depth, not frivolity. The imagination helps us to step into the shoes of others, which stimulates compassion. Without compassion, then community, human understanding, acceptance of differences, loving, kindness dies before it can thrive. In such cases, human beings begin to fear others different than themselves, and cruelty in the domestic sphere as well as national is allowed to reign. Historical fiction is an antidote to that.

Vreeland will come to Bradford for the last OBB event of this season. Until then, the OBB committee is gearing up for a season of activities to appeal to the masses.

“We are delighted to have someone of Susan’s caliber as a One Book Bradford author,” said Pat Shinaberger, chairwoman of the One Book Bradford committee. “We are working diligently on getting activities planned that will appeal to many, many people in our area. And we are having a lot of fun in the process.”

Shinaberger teased that one activity may be a trip out of state. Details on this and other OBB activities will follow. Past OBB books are “City of Lights,” “Children’s Blizzard,” “Becky,” and “Still Life.”

“Clara and Mr. Tiffany” was released earlier this year. Other books written by Vreeland include “Girl in Hyacinth Blue” and “Luncheon of the Boating Party.”

While she can’t pinpoint one favorite, she listed the attributes of “Clara and Mr. Tiffany” that she enjoyed.

“The variety of characters in the studio and in the boardinghouse gave me delightful possibilities,” she said.

As for herself, Vreeland, who was an English teacher for 30 years, owns a reproduction Tiffany-inspired lamp. She emphasized reproduction.

Couple Charged with Welfare Fraud

A Salamanca couple has been charged with welfare fraud for not reporting each other’s incomes on their applications to the Cattaraugus County Department of Social Services.

53-year-old Kathleen Baker and 43-year-old David Bander are also charged with grand larceny for offering the false reports from April to September. They each received more than $1,700 in food stamps they were not entitled to.

They are both scheduled to appear in City of Olean Court on November 22.

Senate Approves Bill EstablishingIndependent Nursing Home Appeals

The Senate approved legislation Tuesday sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati establishing an independent and objective process for nursing homes to appeal cited deficiencies.

Currently, the state Department of Health conducts its own informal dispute resolution (IDR) process for long-term care facilities, as required by federal law. Senate Bill 1095 would provide an option for long-term care facilities to either use the department’s IDR process or have a Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) hear the appeal. The QIO would need to be approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and be under contract with the state in order to conduct the IDR.

“This legislation will provide an important tool for long-term care facilities by ensuring an independent and objective process is in place in order for them to appeal cited deficiencies,” Scarnati said. “Nursing homes will then be able to utilize the findings and recommendations to improve the quality of services it provides, benefiting their current and future residents.”

The change will not result in additional taxpayer costs. Any recommendations made by the independent IDR would be subject to final review and approval of the Department of Health. Senate Bill 1095 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Man Accused of Pointing Loaded Gun,Threatening to Kill Another Man

A 71-year-old Bradford Township man is accused of threatening to kill another man with a shotgun at his home and outside Marsh’s Bar Wednesday night.

Paul Smead is accused of going to the Gates Hollow home of Donald Stoddard at around 8 p.m., pointing a loaded shotgun out of the window of his pickup truck and yelling, “I’ll kill you.”

According to papers filed in District Judge Rich Luther’s office, Smead then backed out of the driveway and drove to the parking lot of Marsh’s Bar, and Stoddard followed him. In the parking lot, Stoddard got out of his truck and crouched beside it so Smead couldn’t see him. As Smead continued along the side of Stoddard’s truck with his shotgun, Stoddard was able to tackle him and knock the gun out of his hands.

Stoddard held Smead to the ground and secured the gun with his foot. Smead kept yelling that Stoddard was a coward and he would kill him. He also yelled at witnesses, telling them to “shut the **** up” while they attempted to calm him down.

Bradford City Police took Smead to BRMC, where a lab test showed his blood alcohol content was .23 percent. While he was at the hospital he allegedly told police several times that when he got out of jail he would kill Stoddard.

According to the court papers Smead told officers that he knew he was drunk and shouldn’t have driven but that Stoddard has been harassing and stalking his daughter for a long time and something had to be done about it. Officers asked what he intended to do Wednesday and he said, “I was going to kill him.”

Smead is charged with aggravated assault, a felony, as well as misdemeanor counts of terroristic threats, recklessly endangering another person, simple assault, disorderly conduct, harassment and DUI.

Smead’s bail is set at $100,000 and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for November 10 in Luther’s office.

Man Allegedly Smashed Beer Can on Sherrif's Patrol Car, Damaged Radio

A Chautauqua County man is in jail after smashing a beer can on the hood of a sheriff’s patrol car.

55-year-old Randall Lawergen was found early this morning in the middle of Button Valley Road in Harmony, where he was playing loud music, yelling and swearing.

Besides smashing the beer can he also allegedly damaged a portable radio and spit on and kicked the windows of the patrol car while he was being taken to jail, where he’s being held without bail.

Holley, Jose's, Roadhouse Cited

The Hotel Holley in Bradford and Jose’s and the LR Roadhouse in Lewis Run have all been cited for liquor law violations.

State police say employees at the Holley sold more than the legal amount of malt or brewed beverages to a person to consume off the property on August 12. On August 18 they allegedly served alcohol to two people who were visibly intoxicated.

On August 13 Jose’s allegedly let people stay in the bar more than half an hour after last call and allowed them to have alcohol after 2:30 a.m.

On April 24 and July 2 the Roadhouse allegedly let people stay in the bar more than half an hour after last call, and allowed them to have alcohol after 2:30 a.m. on those days and on July 30. They also allegedly furnished alcohol between 2 and 7 a.m. on July 2 and July 30.

All the charges will be brought before an administrative law judge.

ARG to Sponsor News Review

Evening Report Moving to 5 P.M.

Remember when the Kendall News Review was the community’s major news of the day?

The Bradford refinery sponsored the Kendall News Review for 54 years from its inception on April 5, 1947. The program actually made its debut April 6 as Bradford experienced a major flood April 5 that knocked out power to the entire city, including the new radio station.

The final Kendall News Review aired Oct. 21, 2001. At the time it was believed to be the longest continually sponsored radio program in the country. "Because American Refining Group is committed to our community, we will pick up the program’s sponsorship once again," according to a company news release.

Remember when, on March 3, 1997, Harry Halloran agreed to buy the Bradford facility?

In so doing, he preserved a crucial economic partner and community steward in Northwestern Pennsylvania. American Refining Group, Inc., is pleased to resume sponsorship of the program that delivers the area’s news to you beginning on Nov. 14.

Tune in to 1490 WESB on weekdays for the ARG News Review sponsored by American Refining Group at its new time of 5 p.m. starting November 14.

Marcellus Shale Bill Moves Out of House Committee; Corbett 'Pleased'

Harrisburg – Governor Tom Corbett is pleased to see legislative movement on the Marcellus Shale bill, House Bill 1950, and commends the House Finance Committee on today’s 15-to-10 vote that sent it to the full House of Representatives.

“I applaud House Finance Committee members for moving this important measure,’’ Corbett said. “This bill contains many of the provisions contained in our proposal, and I am pleased to see the legislature working toward a final bill.”

In early October, Corbett outlined his plans to implement numerous recommendations of the Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission, including changes to enhance environmental standards, an impact fee, and a plan to help move Pennsylvania toward energy independence.

Today’s action by the House panel is an important step in the process, Corbett said, adding that he looks forward to continued discussions with the General Assembly that will lead to a strong and sensible Marcellus Shale package.

Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati expects a vote on a Marcellus Shale bill in the Senate during the week of November 14.