Anne's Arts & Activities Blog

Whether you think it’s necessary or not, Pennsylvania is one step closer to having an official state firearm. The House on Wednesday voted 173 to 24 to designate the long rifle as the state’s official firearm because of its historical significance. The gun was manufactured in southeastern Pennsylvania in the 18th and 19th centuries and valued by early settlers for its light weight and accuracy. Several lawmakers objected to the measure, citing concerns about gun violence and saying it would be an insult to victims. He also said, historically, commercial products have not been recognized by lawmakers as an official symbol for the state. The long rifle designation was actually an amendment to a bill that would make the J3 Cub the state’s official aircraft. The single-engine J3 Cub, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, was manufactured in Lock Haven between 1937 and 1947. Originally intended for flight training, it went on to become one of the most popular planes of all ti...

Although there is still a moratorium on fracking in New York State, the Department of Environmental Conservation has updated the list of drilling companies it may issue permits to if and when the ban is lifted. In Cattaraugus County, Vertical Resources of Sugar Grove intends to drill a Marcellus Shale well in Knapp Creek. Pan Energy Company of Orchard Park intends to drill a Marcellus well in Cherry Creek in the Town of Dayton. DEC says these notices pertain to well spacing requirements only and do not necessarily mean that permits are ready to be issued. The news leader of the Twin Tiers ... since 1947

On Monday, June 28, PennDOT will close the Knapp Creek Bridge on Route 346 in the village of Prentisvale. A detour will be in place through the 2010 construction season. The detour will direct drivers to use State Route 1017 (R.L. Sweitzer Drive) and State Route 246. Project work also includes approach and roadway paving, drainage items, guide rail installation, pavement markings and miscellaneous construction. A.L. Blades of Hornell, New York is the contractor on this $2.3 million job. The Knapp Creek Bridge is located on Route 346 in Prentisvale, Otto Township, McKean County. PennDOT expects to open the new bridge to traffic by late fall.