Anne's Arts & Activities Blog

A Wilcox woman was hurt in an accident in Ridgway Township. State police say an SUV driven 70-year-old Donna Hansey was on Water Street Extension, about three-tenths of a mile east of Long Level Road, when it went off the road, back onto the road, off the road again and hit a ditch. The SUV then spun around and rolled over. Hansey was taken to Elk Regional Health Center for treatment of minor injuries and was cited for driving at an unsafe speed. Faxed from Ridgway-based state police

PA CleanWays of McKean County have secured a PA DEP Grant to operate a tire recycling program on August 1, 2009, from 8AM to Noon, at the Edmond Chevrolet Car Dealership on South Avenue in Bradford. There is still room for more tires to be accepted into the program. Residents must pre-register and pre-pay at the Penn State Extension Office in Smethport or by contacting Extension Educator, Jim Clark, at jac20@psu.edu . Emailed from Jim Clark Extension Educator Penn State Cooperative Extension Office, Cameron-McKean-Potter Unit

A history of the Bradford oil fields and how they have affected the wealth, attitudes and livelihood of the region will be presented at 7 p.m. July 29 at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. The presentation, which will take place in the Mukaiyama University Room in the Frame-Westerberg Commons, is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Hanley Library, the McKean County Historical Society and the Old Jail Museum. A team of researchers and storytellers from the Historical Society will provide an overview of the Bradford area oil fields and share stories and information about the industry’s past and present, booms and busts. The presentation is free and open to the public. Emailed from Pitt-Bradford

Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe has announced that agency is planning to webcast its public drawings for the 2009 elk hunting licenses and the 2009-10 bobcat season permits. To view the drawing, a special icon will be posted online on Sept. 11, the day of the public drawing, for people to click on and watch the drawing. “Each year, tens of thousands of individuals apply for an elk license or bobcat permit,” Roe said. “Unfortunately, not all of them can make it to the public drawings and we are unable – due to financial limitations – to send everyone who applied a letter to let them know whether they were drawn. “By webcasting the drawings, we hope to allow more people to view these events without having to travel.” Roe also noted that those who have submitted applications can check the status of their applications for the elk and bobcat drawings, as well as their antlerless deer license applications, thanks to the new Pennsylvania Automated License System ...

The Department of Environmental Protection is holding a meeting Tuesday in Erie so people can hear about, and comment on, a restoration plan for the Great Lakes. A proposed investment of $475 million for Great Lakes restoration projects is in the 2010 federal budget. “Lake Erie defines the identity and character of the Erie area, as well as being a major contributor to its economic vitality,” said DEP Chief of the Office of the Great Lakes Lori Boughton. “The financial commitment proposed in the 2010 federal budget will help communities solve the many environmental challenges that exist throughout the Great Lakes.” The $475 million Great Lakes Restoration Initiative proposed by President Obama puts EPA in charge of leading the effort that will target the most significant environmental problems in the Great Lakes basin. The meeting will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 28, at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, Room 112, 301 Peninsula Drive, Erie. From the PA DEP

HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania must properly use federal recovery funding to continue its targeted investments in student achievement and to avoid local property tax increases, Education Secretary Gerald L. Zahorchak said. How Pennsylvania spends its initial share of federal recovery funds will determine whether the commonwealth will be able to compete for $5 billion in “Race to the Top” funds announced today by President Obama, the secretary added. Zahorchak cautioned that a budget plan offered and approved by Senate Republicans would squander the opportunity to use stimulus funds to improve Pennsylvania’s schools and result in a $728 million hole in the state’s basic education subsidy when stimulus funds expire in two years. The Senate plan would set the stage for local tax hikes and school program cuts, ultimately putting Pennsylvania $1.2 billion behind the goals established in law last year as part of a six-year school funding formula. “President Obama and Congress intended for states...

HARRISBURG – Governor Ed Rendell has announced that more than 9,200 young people across the state are working this summer in jobs funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act — exceeding the original goal of 8,600. “Because of funding from the Recovery Act, this year we have more than four times the 2,205 youth who were able to participate last year,” Governor Rendell said. “Being able to help more than 9,200 young people secure jobs in the midst of a recession is a prime example of how our economic recovery efforts are working. We are getting the money out, putting people to work and providing them with work experience opportunities they wouldn’t have without this funding.” Governor Rendell was joined at the announcement by 20 Summer Youth Employment Program participants from the Harrisburg and York areas. The statewide program, funded by $34.5 million awarded to local workforce investment areas according to a federal formula, will provide job training and education services f...

Someone stole nearly $500 worth of property from the Oswayo Valley Apartments in Shinglehouse sometime between July 16 and 19. State police say someone got into the building's bottom floor common area and removed a wooden glider rocker with cushions; two tabletop lamps; and a 5-pound fire extinguisher. The value of the stolen items is about $475. Faxed from Coudersport-based state police.

Western New York is getting another $4 million of federal stimulus money for transportation-related projects. $1.4 million will go toward paving about 2 miles of Wildwood Avenue in Salamanca from Linwood Avenue to the city line. The Chautauqua County Children's Safety Education Village in North Harmony will receive $1.8 million to build a two-classroom building for traffic and personal safety instruction. The project will provide hands-on safety education for children from kindergarten through fourth grade. $200,000 will go toward installing signs for Bike Route 517 in Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara counties. Governor David Paterson says these, along with several other Western New York projects, are expected to create about 100 jobs. governor's web site

New York State is implementing a quarantine to prevent the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer, a beetle that destroys ash trees. The beetle has been found in Randolph, New York. About 30 trees have been damaged so far. The quarantine restricts the movement of ash trees, ash products and all firewood in Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal Plant Health Inspection Service will issue a parallel quarantine. Currently, federal EAB quarantine areas restricting the interstate movement of regulated articles are in 12 states, including Pennsylvania. News release from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Sgt. Ryan H. Lane, 25, of Pittsburgh, Pa., died July 23 of wounds suffered while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

From the Harrisburg Patriot-News "Saying he is emotionally, physically and spiritually spent, Chuck Ardo said he has made the decision to leave his job after seven years at the Capitol." To read the full story go here: Harrisburg Patriot-News

OLEAN, NY -- Entries are still being accepted for the Olean Gus Macker Basketball Tournament. The Olean High School Sports Boosters and the Olean City School District Foundation are calling for visitors, students and community members to sign up for the August 14-16 Gus Macker three-on-three basketball tournament. Entry deadline for teams interested in this year’s tournament are Friday, July 31 for applications that are submitted by mail AND for internet entries. To register on-line, go to www.macker.com or mail an application to Gus Macker Application, P.O. Box 70, Greenville, Mich. 48838. GOACC will be mailing many completed registration forms by the end of the day, Tuesday, July 28th. Include yours by the deadline with form and payment. No faxed application forms will be accepted. The entry fee must accompany the team application, and can be paid by check or credit card. The entry fee for four player teams is $124. The two groups anticipate having over 300 teams and 10,000 spe...

Veterans who have served active duty in the military since Sept. 11, 2001, may be able to attend the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford for free or greatly reduced cost thanks to the new Department of Veterans Affairs Post-9/11 GI Bill, which takes effect Aug. 1. “For those veterans who are eligible, it will allow them to come to Pitt-Bradford and have all their tuition and fees paid for plus a $1,000 book allowance and a generous housing allowance,” said James Baldwin, assistant dean of academic affairs and director of enrollment services. “They will not have to borrow money to finance their education.” Tim Lawson, for example, is an incoming freshman who served six years in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve, including two tours in Iraq finding and detonating improvised explosive devices. He can now attend Pitt-Bradford tuition free, working toward a degree in elementary education, using his housing stipend to cover his mortgage and utilities and a $1,000 annual...

Earlier this week, new traffic signals were installed at the intersection of East Main Street and Kendall Avenue.

A state trooper in Ridgway has been promoted to the rank of corporal. Dennis McFadden of Kersey was one of 47 members of the state police to be promoted to corporal today during ceremonies held at the State Police Academy in Hershey. McFadden has been with the state police since 1991 and will remain with Troop C in Ridgway. Also promoted today was Ronald Schupp of Mercer. He has been with the state police since 1990 and had previously been stationed with Troop C in Kane. Faxed from Pennsylvania State Police

Access to the Irwin Run Canoe Launch will be extremely limited the week of August 3 as work continues on the Irwin Run Bridge, so boaters are encouraged to use alternate launches. On August 3, the contractor will set the second half of the pre-cast, reinforced concrete bridge. This involves 12 wide loads carrying sections of the bridge traveling from Ridgway to the bridge site. This is scheduled to start at 6 a.m. and will continue until late evening. Flaggers will control traffic and motorists will be stopped as each section is unloaded. Delays may occur along routes 219, 948 and 3002. Traffic will be stopped on Route 3002 as each section arrives at the bridge site. All work is weather dependent. PennDOT expects the project to be finished in September. This work had been set to start on Wednesday, but is being changed because of scheduling conflicts. From PennDOT

I'm not commenting on this, I'm just sending you to GrassrootsPA.com .

A St. Marys man has been arrested for fleeing from police following an accident in which he was injured this morning. Police say 28-year-old Donald Cameroni committed traffic violations on the Hospital Curve area of Johnsonburg Road at about 2:15. He then allegedly fled the area on Route 255 when police tried to stop him. Cameroni's vehicle went out of control while it was traveling at a high rate of speed around a curve, and hit a tree. Cameroni was taken to Elk Regional Health Center, where he was treated and released. He was arraigned on charges of fleeing from law enforcement, DUI and summary traffic violations, then sent to jail pending further court action. Faxed from St. Marys City Police Department

By Joel Keefer Executive Assistant to Greg Edwards Dunkirk, NY: -- The familiar sights and sounds of the Chautauqua County Fair will soon be in the air, and County Executive Gregory J. Edwards is encouraging everyone to come out and take part in the 128th edition of the event. The Chautauqua County Fair runs July 27 to August 2 at the Dunkirk fairgrounds, and will feature great shows, rides and food. "I look forward to the County Fair each and every year," Edwards said. "Not only is it a great time to get out and have some fun, but it's also an opportunity for people to learn more about our agricultural community." Farming is a critical part of the County's economy, and Edwards has always made it a point to take part in the Annual 4-H Meat Animal Sale and visits the 4-H animal barns each year. In addition to all of the traditional aspects of the Chautauqua County Fair, Edwards said there will also be a strong County Government presence this year. "Growi...

AC/DC is bringing it's "Black Ice" world tour to Buffalo on October 28. Tickets for the concert at HSBC Arena go on sale at 11 a.m. Saturday at the HSBC arena box office and at all Tickets.com outlets. All tickets are $92. AC/DC

Do you have a quilt that you have made or holds special meaning to you and your family? A quilt show is being planned for the Gale Fest in Galeton September 4 & 5. Last year’s show was a great success and we are hoping to make it bigger and better this year. We are looking to form a planning committee. If you are interested in being on this committee or would like to display a quilt, please call Deanna Sherman at the Potter County Education Council’s Galeton Office at 814-435-9490. We are looking forward to seeing a wonderful array of hand made quilts. From: Deanna Sherman Potter County Education Council

WASHINGTON – On the heels of their testimony to the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, four members of President Obama’s Cabinet have published op-ed columns in regional newspapers throughout the country. Energy Secretary Steven Chu, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack each draw on their respective areas of expertise to make the case for a comprehensive energy plan that will free America from the grip of foreign oil while creating millions of jobs and reducing harmful pollution. Excerpts from and links to the op-eds are below: Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu Richmond Times-Dispatch “Cleaning Up: Energy and Climate Bill Will Boost the Economy” (7/22) http://www.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/opinion/op_ed/article/ED-CHU22_20090721-173805/281278/ Over the next few months, Congress will decide on historic energy legislation that would create a generation of clean-energy jobs here in America, reduce...

Statement from Former President George H.W. Bush on the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act: “I congratulate President Obama for taking some time today to remember the 19th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. There is no place in our society for prejudice of any kind, yet it was not that long ago when Americans with disabilities were often not given equal rights and opportunities. Whether the cause was ignorance or indifference, it was not acceptable. We can all take pride in how much the ADA has accomplished, which is evident every time you attend a sporting event, ride the subway, or go to work. Yet, there is always more to be done, which is why it’s good not only to celebrate our successes, but to look forward at what still must be done. As long as we never forget that every life is a miracle and each person has something to contribute, we will finish the job.” From: THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary

Governor David A. Paterson has directed that flags on New York State government buildings be flown at half-staff on Monday, July 27, 2009, in honor of four Fort Drum soldiers who were killed in an ambush in Warduk Province, Afghanistan, on July 20, 2009. Sergeant Gregory Owens, of Garland, Texas; Specialist Anthony Lightfoot, of Riverdale, Georgia; Specialist Andrew J. Roughton, of Houston, Texas; and Private 1st Class Dennis J. Pratt, of Duncan, Oklahoma, died of wounds received when their vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device, followed by an attack with small arms and rocket propelled grenades. The four men were all members of the 4th Battalion, 25th Field Artillery, which is part of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team of the 10th Mountain Division. "It is with deep regret that we lower the flags on our State buildings to commemorate the passing of these four fine soldiers," Governor Paterson said. "While none of these men came from New York originally, they wer...

Earlier this week, Emporium-based state police celebrated their 100th anniversary of providing state police service in Cameron County. People who attended the celebration included Troop F commanding officer Captain Donald Peters, current PSP personnel, Trooper Rex Johnson with his restored 1938 Pennsylvania Motor Police Vehicle, several retired Emporium-based troopers and various law enforcement dignitaries from Cameron County. Sgt. Eric Wolfang says about 50 people attended a short ceremony, and were then treated to a wide variety of state police memorabilia. News release sent by Sgt. Eric Wolfgang

An employee of an alcohol and drug treatment center has been arrested for dealing heroin. Attorney General Tom Corbett says 46-year-old Louann Uber of Indiana was a mid-level dealer capable of moving multiple-brick quantities of heroin. A brick of heroin contains 50 bags and one bag has a street value of about $25. Corbett says that in a series of controlled buys, his agents bought heroin that had a street value of more than $8,600. She was sent to jail in lieu of $60,000.

A soldier from western Pennsylvania has been killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. The Defense Department says 24-year-old Sgt. Joshua Rimer of New Sewickley Township was killed Wednesday in the blast near his vehicle in Zabul Province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 4th Engineer Battalion at Fort Carson, Colo.

The Area Transportation Authority of North Central Pennsylvania is in line to receive $360,000 to buy four transit vehicles. The money has been included in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill for fiscal year 2010. Congressman Glenn Thompson says the appropriations bill passed last night in the House, but must also pass in the U.S. Senate before it can be signed into law and the money can be made available. The ATA service area includes McKean, Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson and Potter counties. Headquarters for the authority is in Johnsonburg. From Congressman Glenn Thompson's office

Area fire departments were busy this morning with two house fires. The first was called in at 12:34 a.m. at Carpenter Creek Road in Eldred Township. Eldred Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief Dave Crowe tells WESB and The HERO that the building was fully engulfed in flames when they arrived, and the roof had already caved in. The owner of the seasonal residence is from Lancaster, Pa., and he is on his way to the area to speak with Crowe about the fire. Crowe says the building was a total loss. A state police fire marshal was on the scene at 6 a.m. He hasn't determined a cause yet, but is still investigating. No one was hurt. A dispatcher at the McKean County 911 Center tells WESB and The HERO that the second fire was at 422 Chase Street in Kane. It was called in at 4:25 a.m.. We'll have more information as it becomes available.

The Oil Region Alliance and Oil 150 will offer a “First Day Cover” featuring a specially designed combination of the Oil 150 logo and “Celebrating the Story- Progress from Petroleum” slogan in full color. The design will be produced on a high quality # 10 white linen (70 #) envelope with a vanity stamp depicting Colonel Edwin Drake at the first commercial oil well and the August 27, 1859 date. The cancellation will be a special USPS cancellation featuring the Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad Post Office which is affiliated with the Oil City Post office. The cancellation features a line drawing of a Densmore tank car and the August 27, 2009 date. Anyone wishing to have other mail cancelled with the postmark may do that by following regular USPS procedures only at the Main Oil City Post Office, 302 East Second Street, Oil City, PA. The cancellation will not be available for other mail at the Perry Street Railway Post Office. Randy Seitz, CEO of the ORA said: “This First Day Cover” will...

Thanks to Solomon's Words for reminding me about The Dam Show! He also tells me last year's show was "super!" Here's the schedule: FRIDAY, July 24th 5:00 P.M. Red Headed Stepchild 5:30 P.M. Vinegar Creek Constituency 6:15 P.M. Hickory Project 7:00 P.M. Skiffle Minstrels 8:00 P.M. Moira Smiley and Voco 9:30 P.M. Hickory Project 10:00 P.M. Lumpy Gravy 11:00 P.M. Campfire Music with Free Grass Union SATURDAY, July 25th 7:00 A.M. Sunrise Yoga with Brenna Francis 10:00 A.M. Yoga Workshop with Brenna Francis 12:30 P.M. Buddhahood Drumming Workshop 12:30 P.M. Square Dance Workshop & Old Time Music with Natalie Phelps & Free Grass Union (Natalie is an artist in the PA Council on the Arts folk arts roster) 2:00 P.M. Tom Martin 2:30 P.M. Free Grass Union 3:00 P.M. Buddhahood 4:15 P.M. Red Headed Stepchild 5:00 P.M. Vinegar Creek Constituency 5:45 P.M. Glass Onion (featuring Larry Herbstritt's Students) 6:15 ...

if I really do have a garden (because I talk about it on Saturday mornings) ... I do. And, as evidenced by the yellow blossom (and several more that I didn't photograph), I'll have tomatoes soon. If you have questions about your tomaotes, or anything else you're growing, call Master Gardner Bob Harris during "Around the Home" at 8:30 a.m. Saturday on 1490 WESB. Or, you can send us an instant message (from WESB.com ) and I'll ask him for you.

Thanks so much to Capt. Cory Angell! Members of Co. C, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, patrol a main road in the town of Zorba, Iraq, before returning to their Joint Security Station in Hor Al Bosh. Staff Sgt. Thomas Bleem, Bradford Pa., takes a knee to pull security during a vehicle stop while on patrol in the farming town of Zorba, Iraq, with Co. C, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. Staff Sgt. Steven Jones, Bradford Pa., leads a patrol in the Taji Market with Co. C, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. Sgt. Mike Gallo, Pittsburgh, talks with the Soldiers mounted in the Stryker vehicles by radio as they conduct a patrol in Taji Market. The Soldiers are members of Co. C, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Multi-National Division – B...

HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe has announced that the agency has posted its Draft Strategic Plan for 2009-2014 on its website for a 30-day public comment period. To view the document, go to the Game Commission's Web site . “Once finalized, this draft strategic plan will be use it to guide the agency and its operations for the next five years,” Roe said. “We developed this plan to clearly define the agency’s priorities; how that work will be carried out; and how we intend to monitor our progress. “This plan also will enable us to develop our annual budgets to reflect the priorities established to manage Pennsylvania’s wild birds, wild mammals, and their habitats for current and future generations.” Roe noted that this draft strategic plan will replace the one developed to cover 2003-2008. “In past reviews by the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee, focused on the agency’s compliance with its strategic plan, it was made clear to the Gen...

Tuna Crossroads will be closed starting Monday for bridge beam placement. PennDOT is asking motorists to follow the posted detour. Also next week on the Route 219 Bradford Bypass project, Kendall Avenue northbound will remain closed for reconstruction. Kendall Avenue is restricted to one lane for southbound traffic only. Southbound traffic is to follow the posted detour. Crews will be removing curbs and sidewalks and doing drainage work. From PennDOT .

St. Bonaventure University has teamed up with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to help post-9/11 veterans attend SBU tuition free through the new Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program. St. Bonaventure is among a sizeable number of private colleges and universities in New York state participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program, designed to help students pay for education programs not covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill tuition benefit. The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act, for veterans who were considered active duty during or after Sept. 11, 2001, caps educational benefits at the highest public in-state college or university undergraduate tuition rate. Under the Yellow Ribbon Program, the difference between that in-state rate and the tuition cost at a private college or university is split between the school and the VA. If, for instance, the tuition bill at a participating university is $20,000 and the Post-9/11 GI Bill can pay only $15,000, the university and the...

A former Kersey woman has been charged with arson in connection with a house fire nearly two years ago. 26-year-old Diane McCracken of Big Run has been charged with criminal solicitation to commit arson, insurance fraud and corruption of minors following a fire that was set at Donald McCracken's house on July 30, 2007. The house was originally damaged by fire on April 30, 2007, by Gerald McCracken. He was convicted of arson and is serving a state prison sentence of 7 to 19 years. Police say Diane McCracken set the second fire in an attempt to mislead investigators. She's also accused of involving a child from Meadville in the commission of the alleged crime. She's in Elk County Prison in lieu of $25,000 cash bond. Faxed from Ridgway-based State Police

Mayville, NY -- Chautauqua County Executive Gregory J. Edwards announced today the receipt of a $1.3 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration to fund a major road improvement project in northern Chautauqua County. "This money will allow the county to complete a critical road improvement project. Progress Drive serves major employers in the Chadwick Bay Industrial Park including Nestle Purina, Lorenzo International Inc., Captive Plastics/Grafco Industries, Allegany-Erie, Inc., Stericycle and Cliffstar Corporation," said Edwards. "This public investment will leverage additional private investment monies of $48 million and is expected to create 146 jobs as well as retain 1,981 existing jobs among these employers." According to Chautauqua County Public Facilities Director George Spanos, the road project involves the reconstruction of 1.2 miles of Progress Drive between Middle Road and Werle Road, and safety improvements on the intersection of Pr...

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger says he did not assault a woman while he was attending a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe. This is part of his statement: “I did not sexually assault Andrea McNulty. ... The allegations against me are reckless and false ..." You can read the rest at Pittsburgh Steelers.com .

An interview with Eric Reeves, author of "A Long Day's Dying: Critical Moments in the Darfur Genocide" : WESB's LiveLine 7/22/09 .

A detour will be in place for traffic on Route 255 South and exiting to Route 120 East to Emporium while work is done on the railroad crossing on the Route 120 East ramp in St. Marys. PennDOT says motorists should watch for the appropriate roadway signing to direct traffic onto Washington Avenue. The detour will be in place July 28-30. Crews will remove the existing rubberized crossing and replace it with a bituminous rail seal crossing. Some work will also be done on the road to create a smooth transition through the crossing. During both phases on this project, Route 255 will be restricted to one lane. The City of St. Marys will be closing parking along St. Marys Street in the Diamond Area and the parking lot near the work area to allow for proper traffic control. From PennDOT .

The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed right-handed pitcher Trent Stevenson, the clubs seventh round selection in the 2009 First Year Player Draft. Stevenson went 7-2 with a 3.91 ERA this past season for Brophy Jesuit Prep School in Phoenix, Arizona. He pitched two complete games – one was a shutout – and had 59 strikeouts. The Pirates also signed left-handed pitcher Zac Fuesser, the 34th selection in the 2009 draft. Fuesser went 5-2 with four saves and a 4.35 ERA in 19 games as a freshman at Walters State Community College in Morristown, Tennessee. He also recorded 60 strikeouts and limited opposing hitters to a .222 batting average. The Pirates have signed 17 of their 51 selections from this year's draft. Pictured, Trent Stevenson signing his contact. Trent’s father Jim Stevenson is also pictured. ( Photo courtesy of the Pittsburgh Pirates )

Washington, D.C.— This week, in an effort led by Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (PA-05), members of the Congressional Western Caucus called on U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to address their concerns regarding the manner in which a settlement was reached on the lawsuit filed by the Allegheny Defense Project of Portland, Oregon, the Sierra Club, and the Forest Service Employees for Environmental Ethics in November, 2008, against the Forest Service and the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Association. Specifically, the lawsuit demanded that the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) be applied to the permitting process for privately owned subsurface rights despite the fact that permitting is already regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. "The Forest Service decision to ignore the state permitting process for privately owned subsurface rights is a dangerous precedent for public lands and private property rights countrywide,” said Congr...

Mary Jane Hand, center, takes over as president of the Allegheny National Forest Vacation Bureau’s board of directors Thursday. Hand replaces Tom Frungillo, left. Also pictured is Linda Devlin, executive director of the Allegheny National Forest Vacation Bureau. The slate of officers is Hand as president, Stacey Ackley, vice president; Wayne Pearson, associate vice president; Kevin Kost, secretary; and Steve Cottillion, treasurer. The bureau is the official tourist promotion agency of McKean County. ( Photo courtesy of Sandra Rhodes, ANFVB )

HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe today praised the House of Representatives, including House Game and Fisheries Committee Chairman Edward G. Staback (D-Lackawanna), for the near unanimous approval of House Bill 1859, which would increase penalties and fines for poaching. The bill, which was sponsored by Rep. Staback, and is similar to House Bill 97, passed the House on July 21 by a vote of 196-3. “Increasing penalties for serious violations is one of the operational objectives within the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Strategic Plan, and we welcome the House’s approval of this measure,” Roe said. “This bill recognizes poaching for the crime that it is; the stealing of natural resources from all Pennsylvanians. “There is widespread public support for this legislation as indicated by surveys that showed 96 percent of Pennsylvania’s citizens feel that wildlife protection is a vitally important function.” Roe said that the causes of poaching vary, ...

Harrisburg – State Senator Joe Scarnati (R-25) today announced the approval of $12.5 million in grants for water and sewer system improvement projects in Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson and McKean counties. The funds are made available through Act 63 of 2008 -- H2O PA -- legislation co-sponsored by Senator Scarnati to fund water and sewer projects, as well as storm water projects, flood control projects, and high-hazard dam repairs. H20 PA is funded through an $800 million bond financed by five percent of gaming revenue deposited in the Pennsylvania Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund. “Proper sewage treatment and access to drinking water are fundamental necessities for healthy communities, but it can be very expensive, especially for small, rural communities trying to meet the various state requirements,” said Scarnati. “This is why we enacted the H2O PA program, to help communities like those across the 25th Senatorial District. I am pleased that these worthy projects were awarde...

Richard Ravitch is New York's Lieutenant Governor again – for now. An appeals court judge has stopped a restraining order issued by another judge who ruled that Governor David Paterson's appointment of Ravitch was illegal. Paterson's office issued a statement saying they are confident that the courts will ultimately confirm that the appointment was valid and legally correct. The case is expected to go all the way to the state court of appeals. Paterson appointed Ravitch during the month-long senate power struggle in hopes of breaking 31-31 tie votes in the chamber. NY Governor's Web Site .

Guests at the 2nd Annual Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce enjoy themselves on the front deck at Heritage Suites on Minard Run Road Wednesday evening. Heritage Suites co-owner Gino Auteri mugs for the camera in the kitchenette of one of the rooms while giving a tour. An anxious crowd waits to hear who's won the prizes ... ... as Heritage Suites manager Danielle DeLong pulls numbers from the hopper. BACC Intern Marley, BACC Events Coordinate Maria King and BACC President Shane Oschman help Danielle with the number calling. Jazzabilly -- always a crowd-pleaser -- entertained as people ate delectable food catered by Mascioni Catering, drank ice cold beverages from City Beers and relaxed under tents provided by Bisett Building Center/Just Ask Rental. WESB/WBRR Sales Director Peggy Austin and Heritage Suites co-owner Joe Auteri take a moment to smile for the camera as Shane Oschman thanks everyone for making the event a huge success.

Story & Photo by Kimberly Marcott Weinberg Assistant Director of Communications and Marketing Forty-two high school students from McKean, Elk, Cameron and Potter counties are getting a taste of college this week at the Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9 Summer Academy at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. Now in its 24th year, Summer Academy is co-sponsored by the IU and Pitt-Bradford and is free for students. Students were able to choose one of three tracks: drama and communications, entrepreneurial science and technology or -- new this year -- criminal justice and forensics. Students in drama and communications are taught by Dr. Kevin Ewert, associate professor of theater, and Jeff Guterman, associate professor of communications. Students study drama and the basics of radio and television production, creating commercials and newscasts. They will also take a field trip to visit WNED public broadcasting and Shea’s Performing Arts Center ...

Representatives from United Way-funded agencies gained insight into their new roles as chairs of the 2009 campaign during a training session held Tuesday. Executive Director Kelly Case and Assistant Director Mandi Wilton Davis provided information regarding responsibilities and time lines for the coming appeal, noting that the effort will be one that is supported heavily by the United Way staff and Board of Directors. “Although we’re expecting something different from these individuals as our campaign chairs,” says Case, “we’re still aware that they have to continue operations at their respective agencies. “We’re going to do whatever we can to work with them to ensure success.” For their part, the agency personnel, representing the Community Building- and Community Essential-funded organizations, are looking forward to the task at hand. “We’re honored to serve the United Way and the Bradford community in this capacity,” says John Sheehan, Executive Branch Manager for the local Olean-Br...

From The Eldred Borough Fire Department : "THANK YOU! Our friends in Emporium, Cameron County, PA, for loaning Eldred an ambulance to service our community and townships. And THANK YOU all the fire departments and ambulance services for offering help in our time of need. The Officiers and Members Eldred Boro Fire Department" The Eldred FD site has pictures of the Sunday's fire that destroyed their ambulances and building. I meant to get this posted earlier today, but I haven't quite figured out yet how to fit an hour-and-a-half's worth of work into an hour, so I've been behind all day.

The Pittsburgh Pirates today announced that they have acquired shortstop Argenis Diaz and right-handed pitcher Hunter Strickland from the Boston Red Sox organization in exchange for first baseman Adam LaRoche. The announcement was made by Pirates Senior Vice President, General Manager Neal Huntington. Argenis Diaz, who has attended spring training as a member of the 40-man roster in each of the last two years, hit .253 (70-for-277) with 14 doubles, 24 RBI and 21 runs scored with Double-A Portland this year. The 22-year-old shortstop entered the season rated by Baseball America as the “Best Defensive Infielder” in the Red Sox minor league system. Diaz was originally signed by the Red Sox as a non-drafted free agent on July 22, 2003. He has been rated as the organization’s “Best Defensive Infielder” by Baseball America since 2006 when he joined the Gulf Coast League Red Sox after playing in the Venezuelan Summer League the previous two years. Last year the native of Guatire, Venezue...

Breaking News From CNN: Police search the office of Michael Jackson's doctor, Conrad Murray, for evidence of manslaughter, Murray's lawyer said. Get more from CNN.com .

A Bradford man is in Cattaraugus County Jail for allegedly having hypodermic needles in his vehicle. Salamanca Police say they stopped 25-year-old Patrick Carpenter for a traffic violation at about 3:50 Tuesday afternoon, and found 10 hypodermic needles. He was charged with possession of a hypodermic instrument.

US Energy is thinking about drilling exploratory oil wells in Allegany State Park. The company has presented its plan to the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. US Energy says it would drill dozens of wells on 3,000 acres in the southeast corner of the park if enough oil is found. Us Energy owns the mineral rights on those acres. Park officials say they will look at the plan very closely.

Washington, D.C.—Frustrated over the Forest Service decision on the Allegheny National Forest (ANF), U.S. Representative Glenn `GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, which was signed by 21 of his House colleagues from 14 different states. The letter recounted a settlement that was, “agreed to behind closed doors, with no industry representation at the table, and appears to have been agreed to in advance.” Thompson refers to the lawsuit filed by the Allegheny Defense Project of Portland, Oregon, the Sierra Club of San Francisco, California, and the Forest Service Employees for Environmental Ethics of Eugene, Oregon, in November, 2008, against the Forest Service and the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Association. The lawsuit demanded the 1970 NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) be applied to the permitting process for production of privately owned oil and natural gas in the ANF—even though it had not been used previously, and permitting is ...

A person riding a bicycle was hit by a car this afternoon at the Mohawk Avenue interchange of US Route 6 in Warren. A Lifestar helicopter has been called to the scene. We'll have more information as it becomes available.

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. – You can share your breakfast with a football star this summer with limited edition T.O.’s honey nut frosted oat cereal, now on store shelves exclusively at Tops Friendly Markets . The cereal is a partnership between Tops, Buffalo Bills wide receiver Terrell Owens and PLB Sports. “We are thrilled to be able to partner with Terrell and PLB Sports to have T.O.’s on store shelves exclusively at Tops Friendly Markets,” said Frank Curci, CEO of Tops. “Terrell’s signing with the Buffalo Bills has been a wildly popular move locally and we expect fans in Western New York, Central New York and Northwest Pennsylvania will be eager to have a box of T.O.’s on their breakfast table.” The cereal is now available for a limited time only at all 76 Tops locations. Tops Friendly Markets is the official grocery sponsor of the Buffalo Bills and the proud sponsor of the Bills 50th anniversary season celebration. PLB Sports has worked with previous Bills stars Jim Kelly and Doug Flutie ...