Roulette Winterfest Draws Lots Of Snowmobilers

West End Trailblazers Winterfest In Potter County
These sleds await their turn to compete in the radar run.

Photo by James Jones (c)2009

Click here to see all photos of this event

The West End Trailblazers Snowmobile Club's 7th Annual Winterfest in Roulette, Potter County, was well attended by snowmobilers as well as those who just wanted to bring the family out for a day of fun on the farm.

An estimate of 50 to 60 sleds sped around the many acres open to sledding at the Kaple Century Farm on Saturday. The off street parking was nearly full. Snowmobiles raced across the fields and onto the side hill up and down the snowmobile trail.

In the barn, busy workers dished out hamburgers, hot dogs, and the likes, while just outside, the chicken barbeque crew cooked up some of the tasty half chickens the club is famous for.

A large pile of snow plowed up high seemed to overshadow all the planned amusements for the kiddies, as the little ones climbed the snow hill and threw snow at each other, sometimes tumbling to the bottom.

On the other end of the farm field, snowmobilers raced time on a groomed trail, in an event called a radar run, to see who had the fastest sled.

The big difference this year, compares to the last few years, was the snow. Over a foot is left on the ground. Other years they had to settle for a few inches, and sleds don't work well with that.

Solomon's words was there and took many photos which will be posted as we get the time to upload them. Watch for a link in the near future to see all of them.

Three Vehicle Crash On I-80 Friday

Progress News
State Police-Clearfield

Andrew Nosko of Grand Valley suffered minor injuries Friday as the result of a three-vehicle accident that happened on I-80.

Mr. Nosko was unable to stop his vehicle for slow-moving traffic and struck the rear of a tractor-trailer driven by Jorge Rodriguez of New Jersey.

Upon impact, the Nosko vehicle spun into the right lane and struck a vehicle driven by Henry Gleason of Rixford.

Neither Mr. Rodriguez nor Mr. Gleason was injured.

Fully Involved Structure Fire On Gardeau Road

BREAKING NEWS:7:20pm-1-31-09
Emporium Fire Department, Station 14, is responding to a fully involved structure fire on 651 Gardeau Road in Portage Township. Photos

Austin Department 44 has been requested mutual aid with a tanker to the scene.

Sunday, 01 February 2009 Update

Last night at 19:29 Station 44 was toned out to Cameron County for a working structure fire reported fully involved. The request was for a tanker due to respond. Chief 44 (D.VanWhy) responded at time of dispatch. 2 minutes later Tanker 44-5 and Patrol 44-4 responded. Chief 44-20 (M.Bacon) and crew were standing by at Austin Red with Engine 44-2.

It has been a long standing policy that the patrol responds with our tankers due tot he fact the patrol has a portable pump and supply line. Once units arrived on scene and reported to command for orders. Tanker 44-5 would make 2 trips to water supply which was set up 7 miles from the fire. The crew from Patrol 44 assisted Station 14 with salvage and overhaul. All Station 44 units were in quarters by 22:00 Austin VFD Website

Snowmobile Fire On Stevens Street In Shinglehouse

BREAKING NEWS:6:40pm--1-31-09
Shinglehouse Fire Department has responded to a snowmobile fire on Stevens Street in the Boro of Shinglehouse.

Laura M. Brewer, 78, Shinglehouse, PA

Laura M. Brewer
“loving wife, mother, grandmother, & great-grandmother”

Shinglehouse, PA---Laura M. Brewer, 78, of Shinglehouse, PA, died Saturday, January 31, 2009 in her home surrounded by her loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born September 11, 1930 in Rathbone, NY, she was a daughter of Roy and Sybil C. Nute McKeel. On April 24, 1948 in Portville, NY, she married Robert W. Brewer, who survives.

Mrs. Brewer was a graduate of Athens High School, Athens, PA, class of 1947. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who was deeply devoted to her family. She enjoyed traveling and outdoor activities. She loved to read and embroider.

Surviving besides her husband are two daughters, Susan A. (Victor) Safford of Port Allegany, PA and Terri M. (Phil) VanWhy of Austin, PA; a son, Robert A. (Maureen) Brewer of Cuba, NY; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; three sisters; a brother; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Brewer was preceded in death by a son, Steven Brewer; a grandson; three sisters; and a brother.

Friends may call at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA on Monday, February 2, 2009 from Noon until 1:00 pm where funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Wells Cemetery, Little Genesee, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Oswayo Valley Memorial Library, PO Box 188, Shinglehouse, PA 16748; the American Cancer Society; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Emporium Man Killed In Overnite Snowmobile Crash

Snowmobiler Killed In Crash

Endeavor News Daily Dose

An Emporium man died in a snowmobile accident on a state trail early Saturday morning.

Cameron County Coroner Ted Walters identified the victim as James D. "Nick" Guisto, 41.

Guisto apparently hit an icy patch along Crooked Run Road, causing him to veer off the trail and hit a tree at about 3 am. He was wearing a helmet. More...

Austin Firemen Respond To Wharton For Land Rescue

BREAKING NEWS:11:10am-1-31-09
Austin Fire and ambulance people have been dispatched to the area of the Wharton General Store to meet a snowmobiler for a land rescue of another snowmobiler who suffered a medical emergency. The medically compromised snowmobiler is reported to be two miles from the General Store. More...

Area Obituaries

EMPORIUM — Christopher Atherton, 83, of Emporium, died Wednesday (Jan. 28, 2009), at the DuBois Regional Medical Center, DuBois. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Coppersmith-Condon Funeral Home.

Jury Could Not Agree On Colegrove Sentence

BREAKING NEWS: WENY-TV
A Bradford County jury could not come to an agreement on the sentence for convicted murderer Steven Colegrove.

Colegrove will now be sentenced at a later date, to life in prison without parole.

Preview Of This Week's Endeavor News

Here's what you'll find in this week's Endeavor News:
By Alex Davis

--Winter recreation has been booming across the region, bringing much needed income to many area businesses.

--School districts, counties and townships could see a boost in revenue if the state legislature restores the real estate tax on gas and oil rights.

--The Game Commission is offering a $100 prize to hunters who harvest specially tagged deer in sections of Potter, McKean and Cameron counties.

--A new three-year labor agreement has been ratified by the Potter County Commissioners and a union representing employees at Potter County Human Services.

--There's also coverage of the great outdoors, local sports and much more in Endeavor News, available today at businesses all around the Coudersport and Austin areas.

Gas Explosion Blows House Apart--WNEP TV

Chimney Fire Reported On Interstate Parkway

Bradford Township firefighters responded to a chimney fire reported to be at 470 Interstate Parkway in Bradford Township at 5:21 pm on Friday.

UPDATE from Bradford Township Fire Dept. website:This evening at 5:30 PM, firefighters were dispatched to a chimney fire, flames showing, at 470 Interstate Parkway. Engine 151 and Engine 153 responded along with Chief Burkhouse and Assistant Chief Wright.

The fire was contained to the chimney with no damage to the structure. Firefighters removed the fire from the wood stove and assisted the home owner with initial cleaning of the chimney.

14 firefighters were on scene for 1 hour 10 minutes. A crew with Engine 155 stood by at West Branch and Lewis Run, Station 6, also stood by at their station. Photos....

Roulette--The Place To Go For Winter Fun Sat.

7th Annual Winterfest Saturday

File photo from 2008 Winterfest Photo by James Jones

Roulette, on the western end of Potter County, in North Central Pennsylvania, is the place to go for winter fun on Saturday, January 31, 2009.

The West End Trailblazers Snowmobile Club is putting on their 7th annual Winterfest that starts at 10:00 am and runs until 4:00 pm.

They will have radar runs for the snowmobiles, hay rides for the kiddies, food and refreshments. There will be games, a money pit for the kids to dig for money, a clown, raffles & ripoffs, games and door prizes. Music will be provided by DJ Bill.

The event is held each year whether there is snow or not. The last few years, there wasn't much snow.

This year there is more than a foot of it out there. The snowmobile trails are marked to nearby communities if you want to ride your sled to the Winterfest.

If you have a sled to sell or are a dealer wanting to bring a display or demos, get up early and find your way to Roulette.

The event is held across the street from my home on the Kaple Century Farm. There's many acres to ride your sleds on, and a large area is plowed out for off street parking. In fact they are out there now making it bigger as a large attendance is expected.

The members of this club maintain several trails in the area which tie into trails maintained by other clubs in other areas.

One thing we want to caution you about is that there is no gasoline available in Roulette so fill your tank before you start. For more information go to the West End Trailblazers web site or call one of the people listed there.

It is suggested that you dress warm as the weather is forecast to be windy with a chilly high of only 16 degrees. Some of the activities are in the barn, out of the wind.

Hope to see you there, we'll be taking pictures.

Hymn Sing & Pork & Sauerkraut Dinner

When you are done at the Winterfest, ride on over to the Riverside United Methodist Church, on River Street, in Roulette.

They are having a Hymn Sing starting at 4:00 pm followed by a Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner that is open to the public.

Cost is $7 for adults, and $4 for kids under 10.

WESB-WBRR Crew Reviews The Week's Buzz

W.R. Case Has Laid Off 31 Employees

BREAKING NEWS:
W.R. CASE LAYS OFF 31
Bradford manufacturer W.R. Case is reported to have laid off 31 workers on Thursday night, according to an employee there.

Two Car Crash Reported North Of Port Allegany

Star Hose Co. No. 1 photo (c)2009

BREAKING NEWS:4:16pm-1-30-09
Port Allegany fire and Ambulance with Medic 16 are responding to a 2 car vehicle accident near the Daily Bread Restaurant on Route 155 north of Port Allegany. Occupants were apparently not injured as they reportedly refused treatment.

UPDATE: Star Hose Co.#1--Yet another snow storm brought more action to the PAFD Friday afternoon when Station 3 was dispatched to Route 155 in the area of the Daily Bread Café for a motor vehicle crash (MVC) with minor injuries at 1614hrs.

Chief 3 (Ernst) and Chief 320 (F. Roys) responded at the time of dispatch followed moments later by Rescue 38 (Capt. T. Roys) and Engine 32 (Capt. M. Johnson) with 8 firefighters.

Chief 3 arrived and established "Route 155 Command", reporting "2 vehicles with severe damage and 1 person still inside one of the vehicles." Chief 320, as well as the Rescue and the Engine arrived together.

The crew from Rescue 38 quickly stabilized the vehicle that was still occupied as Engine 32's crew completed hazard control by disconnecting the batteries and deploying a fire extinguisher.

Once all persons involved in the accident refused treatment from EMS, the PAFD crews picked up and were back in service at 1639hrs More photos....

Grief Program Tuesday At Charles Cole Wellness Center

Dickinson Mental Health Center will be offering a presentation and audience discussion on
HELPING YOUR CHILD COPE WITH GRIEF.

This presentation is sponsored by Dickinson MH Center and Potter County Yellow Ribbon and is slated for Tuesday, February 3, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. at the Charles Cole Memorial Hospital Wellness Center. Parents with children of all ages are encouraged to join this community presentation to talk about childhood and adolescent grieving.

Seneca Nation Wins Buffalo Legal Battle

WESB News: 01/30/09 - Judge Says Casino Can Stay Open

The Seneca Nation has won another legal battle. US District Judge William Skretny has denied a motion to close the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino, citing a new National Indian Gaming Commission ordinance that now authorizes gaming on the site.

Citizens Against Casino Gambling in Erie County had argued a previous gaming ordinance approved in July, 2007, was illegal. The Senecas have operated a temporary casino off Michigan Avenue since July 2007.

Last year, they started building a larger facility that they planned to open next year. But in August, they stopped construction because of economic difficulties. They haven't said when construction will resume.

National Gas Cutting Customers A Break

WESB News: 01/30/09 - National Fuel Lowering Rates

National Fuel Gas is lowering its rates for Pennsylvania customers effective Monday.

This 8.2 percent decrease will lower the monthly bill of a typical residential customer from $138.48 to $127.13.

Nancy Taylor of National Fuel says continued decreases in the market price make the adjustment possible.

Potter County Farm Seeking $$ From First Industries Fund

Changes to ethics guidelines could pose challenges for North Central
Courier Express
RIDGWAY - Changes to ethics guidelines for those providing economic development administration will present a challenge to the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission.

During Tuesday's executive board meeting, Loan Program Director Pat Brennen said the ethics regulations for the EDA program are becoming more stringent.

The guidelines, which will go into effect in 2010, say a person on the staff or board of North Central (or the organization distributing the money) cannot directly or indirectly benefit from the grant or loan.

Kar-Dal Acres, Potter County, is seeking $200,000 through the First Industries Fund to buy and renovate an adjacent dairy farm.

More....

Blood Analysis Saturday At Port High School

Port Allegany Rotary & Charles Cole Hospital

Port Allegany Rotary, Charles Cole to Host Comprehensive Blood Analysis

Comprehensive Blood Analysis

The Port Allegany Rotary Club and Charles Cole Memorial Hospital will hold a comprehensive blood analysis from 6 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 31 at the Port Allegany High School, 20 Oak St.

Screening will include over 30 commonly requested blood tests including CBC, comprehensive, coronary risk, and liver function profiles. The cost for the screening is $40. Optional tests include prostate specific antigen (PSA), $26, and thyroid specific hormone (TSH), $9. A 12-hour fast is recommended.

Appointments are required and can be made by calling CCMH’s centralized scheduling at 1-877-274-8200 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Recalls

Cropwell Bishop Creamery Limited Recalls Cheese Products Because of Possible Health Risk (January 26)

Meijer Announces Voluntary Recall for Some Meijer Brand Peanuts and Ice Cream Novelties Citing Possible Health Risk (January 30)

Hy-Vee Inc. recalls two bakery products with peanuts distributed in seven states due to possible health risk (January 29)

Country Maid Expands Upon Previous Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Classic Breaks Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Due to Possible Health Risk (January 29)

Galliker Dairy Announces Voluntary Recall of Rocky Road Ice Cream and Sundae Nut Cones Because of Possible Health Risk (January 30)

Arico Natural Foods Company Announces US and Canadian Recall of Arico Peanut Butter Cookies and Cookie Bars Because of Possible Health Risk (January 29)

Voluntary Recall Alert: Chef Pierre Chocolate Peanut Butter Silk Pie (January 30)

Select Simbree Energy Foods Products Recalled Because of Possible Health Risk (January 30)
Rain Creek Baking Corporation Announces An Expanded Voluntary Withdrawal of Peanut Butter

Turtles, Peanut Butter Baskets and Peanut Butter Princesses Due to Possible Health Risk (January 30)

Orchard Valley Harvest Announces Urgent Nationwide Voluntary Recall for Peanuts Because of Possible Health Risk (January 29)

NutriSystem Expands Voluntary United States Recall of Peanut Butter Granola Breakfast Bar to Include Canada Due to Possible Peanut Corporation Of America (PCA) Contamination and Potential Health Risk (January 30)

Turkey Hill Dairy Announces Voluntary Recall of Select Ice Cream Flavors Following Expanded FDA Investigation of Peanut Corporation of America (January 30)

House of Flavors Issues Voluntary Recall in Eastern United States Due to Possible Health Risk (January 30)

Lesserevil Brand Snack Co. Issues a Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Lesserevil Brand Peanut Butter and Choco Kettle Corn (January 30)

Wells' Dairy Expands Voluntary Recall of Select Blue Bunny Products (January 30)

Clif Bar and Company Expands Its Voluntary Nationwide Recall Of CLIF and LUNA Branded Bars Containing Peanut Butter (January 30)

Perry's Ice Cream Company Adds Products to Voluntary Recall of Select Peanut Butter Ice Cream Products as a result of PCA Expanded Recall (January 30)

Kroger Recalls Nut Topping Due to Possible Health Risk (January 30)

Harry and David Recalls Olympia Delight Trail Mix Because of Possible Health Risk (January 29)

Weis Markets Announces Voluntary Recall of Seven Ice Cream Products Due to Possible Health Risk (January 30)

Bear Naked Announces Recall of Appalachian Trail Mixes Due to Possible Peanut Corporation of America Contamination and Potential Health Risk (January 31)

HP Hood LLC Recalls Ice Cream Products (January 30)

Ice Cream Specialties Announces Nationwide Recall of Ice Cream Novelties Because of Possible Health Risk (January 31)

Nature's Path Announces an Expanded Recall of Peanut Butter Optimum Energy Bars Nationwide Due to Possible Health Risk (January 31)

Pierre's Ice Cream Company Issues Voluntary Recall on its Pierre's Brand Sundae-Cone Style Products Due to Expanded Peanut Recall by Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) (January 30)

Salix, LLC Recalls 6" Peanut Butter Filled Shank Bone Because Of Possible Salmonella Health Risk (January 30)

Publix Issues Voluntary Recall on Produce Snacks (January 30)

Kemps LLC Recalls Ice Cream Products (January 30)

Best Brands Corp. Expands Voluntary Recall of Peanut Butter Frozen Cookie Dough (January 30)

Zachary Confections, Inc. Announces Nationwide Recall of Double Dipped Peanuts, Chocolate Peanuts, Bridge Mix, Caramel Nut Clusters, and Peanut Clusters due to Possible Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) Contamination and Possible Health Risk (January 31)

Mountain Man Nut and Fruit Co. Announces Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Select Products Due to Possible Health Risk (January 30)

Zachary Confections, Inc. Announces a Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Market Pantry Chocolate Covered Peanuts (January 31)

East Side Entrees Voluntarily Recalls Peanut Butter and Jelly Meal Breaks Because of Possible Health Risk (January 31)

Standard Candy announces Voluntary Recall of Goo Goo Cluster and Goo Goo Peanut Butter because of possible Health Risk (January 31)

Schwan Voluntarily Recalls Ice Cream Citing Possible Health Risk (January 31)

Bass Pro Shops Announces Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Uncle Bucks Burnt Peanut Candy, No Sugar Added Chocolate Peanuts and No Sugar Added Peanut Clusters Due to Possible Health Risk (January 31)

Publix Issues Voluntary Recall on Round Top Sundae Cones (January 29)

Hain Celestial Voluntarily Issues Nationwide Recall of Certain Ethnic Gourmet Pad Thai And Kung Pao Frozen Food Products, and Certain Gluten Free Cafe Asian Curry Products, Because of Possible Health Risk (January 31)

Kroger Recalls Peanut Butter Bakery Cookies and Select Cakes Due to Possible Health Risk (January 31)

Rucker's Candy Announces Voluntary Recall for Customer Private Labeled Products Including The Family Choice Labeled Brand (January 31)

Velvet Ice Cream Pulling Cone Products (January 30)

Pecan Deluxe Candy Company Announces Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Certain Peanut Containing Products (February 2)

Walgreens Recalls Walgreens Brand Candy Containing Peanuts Sold From Jan. 1, 2007 To Jan. 29, 2009 (February 1)

Wrecks Reported On Rt. 417 East Of Bolivar

BREAKING NEWS:10:50am-1-30-09
Bolivar Fire and Ambulance has been dispatched to 2 vehicle accidents on Route 417 near the Allentown town line.
UPDATE:

SLIDE SHOW: Weather causing accidents Friday in Allegany County

By Kathryn Ross

Daily Reporter

Bolivar, Richburg and Allentown rescue and ambulance squads were called out to two accidents only few feet apart on state route 417 near the town of Alma line late Friday morning.

State police at the scene said Kay Hackett, of Wellsville, was taken to Jones Memorial Hospital by Richburg ambulance when she complained off neck pain. More with Photos.....

Two Jailed From Port Allegany

WESB News: 01/30/09 - Pair Charged After Accident

Two Port Allegany residents have been charged after an accident on January 14 in Eldred.

21 year-old LaDiamond Cotto and 18 year-old Karen Saenz were driving a stolen vehicle which was in an accident on January 14.

The pair were charged with receiving stolen property, unlicensed operation and unauthorized transfer of registration. Both were sent to McKean County jail on $10,000 bail apiece.

Bradford Man Pleads Guilty

WESB News: 01/30/09 - Bfd Man Pleads to Sex With 9 Year-old

A Bradford man has pleaded guilty to a charge of improper contact with a child.

McKean County Court records show that 27 year-old Michael Fanning had been charged with involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a nine year-old female. Fanning will be sentenced on April 16.

Open House Saturday At Port Vets Memorial Home

Port Allegany Veterans Memorial Home

shown under construction last summer.

New version of Port Allegany Veterans Memorial Home to host open house

By MARTHA KNIGHT
Era Correspondent
Drymar@gmail.com

PORT ALLEGANY — There are not many who can recall just how the “original” Veterans Memorial Home came to be built.

As the sponsoring groups look forward to welcoming the public in Saturday to see the new facility, though, a few reminisce about those early days, and the effort it took to achieve the goal.

Unlike many VFW Clubs and American Legion halls around the country, the local “memorial home” represents the combined efforts of both major veteran organizations and their auxiliaries.

How they came to join forces is a story some old timers chuckle about. More...

Possible Structure Fire In Smethport

BREAKING NEWS:11:15pm-1-29-09
Smethport Fire and Ambulance are responding to a possible structure fire on Main Street in Smethport at the Keppel Stone Works at 515 East Main.

A passerby says it appears the building is filled with smoke.

Chief on scene ordered all units to remain in quarters with one exception.

Leo's Fan Club

Hickory Run Rest Area To Close--WNEP TV

MINING PROJECT WILL RECLAIM ABANDONED MINE LANDS, ELIMINATE DISCHARGE TO MOSHANNON CREEK

Safety Hazard to be Eliminated at No Cost to Taxpayers
HARRISBURG – Dangerous abandoned mine lands with threatening, 115-foot high cliffs and 15 acres of acidic spoil that pollute the Moshannon Creek in Clearfield County will be reclaimed as part of a re-mining project that significantly reduces the reclamation cost while providing at least 10 mining jobs.

The Department of Environmental Protection will issue a surface mining permit to Junior Coal Contracting of Osceola Mills, Clearfield County, that enables the company to add alkaline material to neutralize acid mine drainage from abandoned deep mine workings beneath the site.

“Under Governor Edward G. Rendell’s leadership, we have made significant progress reclaiming abandoned mine lands that endanger lives, pollute our waterways, and put the state at an economic disadvantage,” said DEP acting Secretary John Hanger. “This is one of many mine reclamation projects DEP is managing and developing that will have an immediate and positive impact on the environment and the quality of life for area residents.”

The site, the Vought operation in Decatur Township, was extensively surface mined by Power Operating Co. before the company went bankrupt in 2000, leaving several coal mines in the bituminous region unreclaimed and forfeiting mine reclamation bonds at those sites.

The 27-acre abandoned surface mine contains 1,700 linear feet of highwall with cliffs as high as 115 feet and approximately 15 acres of mine spoil and disturbed earth.

DEP partnered with Junior Coal Contracting to resume mining at the site, remove the remaining coal reserves, and reclaim the site to eliminate safety hazards at no cost to the taxpayers.

Without this arrangement, the reclamation could cost to taxpayers could have been as much as $1.6 million based on estimates to backfill, grade and vegetate the site. At least another $600,000 would have been necessary to ensure the long-term operation and replacement costs associated with treating the acid discharge.

Using $500,000 in funding from the state’s Growing Greener II program, DEP will provide 62,500 tons of lime that will be added to the reclaimed earth at four times the normal rate to permanently neutralize the acidity of surface water entering the abandoned Roslyn deep mine. This alkaline addition will eliminate the acidic discharge from the Roslyn mine into the Moshannon Creek, which is badly degraded from past unregulated mining practices.

“The Moshannon Creek is one of the most polluted streams in the state and is a significant contributor of mine drainage into the West Branch Susquehanna River,” Hanger said. “By addressing this discharge through a re-mining permit we are taking one more step toward bringing this waterway back to life, restoring lost recreational and economic opportunities for the entire region, and freeing up much-needed abandoned mine funds to address other abandoned sites.”

Work on the Vought site is expected to begin in June.

DEP’s Bureau of District Mining Operations oversees approximately 3,500 active mining permits, as well as the reclamation of mining sites that have been abandoned since passage of modern regulations in 1977. Through the commonwealth’s innovative re-mining program, which encourages modern coal mine operators to complete the mining and reclamation of abandoned sites, DEP reclaimed 315 acres of abandoned mine lands on 29 sites at no cost to the taxpayers in 2008. The total estimated value of this reclamation was $1.9 million.

In addition, under the Government Financed Construction Contract program, DEP staff will review and process reclamation proposals and issue no-cost contracts for mining companies to encourage them to mine abandoned sites that contain recoverable coal reserves and complete reclamation at no cost to the taxpayers. During 2008, 39 contracts were completed at an estimated reclamation value to the commonwealth of $2.8 million.

DEP FINES JOHNSON QUARRIES INC. FOR INDUSTRIAL WASTE DISCHARGE

Rock Cuttings, Sludge Degraded Rockwell Creek

WILLIAMSPORT – The Department of Environmental Protection has fined Johnson Quarries Inc. of Wyalusing Township, Bradford County, more than $4,000 after the company illegally discharged rock cuttings and sludge last September that degraded the quality of Rockwell Creek.

“DEP investigated a complaint that Rockwell Creek was flowing white in color and found that stormwater had mixed with rock cuttings and sludge from Johnson’s bluestone quarry to create a fine sludge material,” said DEP Northcentral Regional Director Robert Yowell. “This material had flowed over a hillside and into Rockwell Creek.”

DEP collected samples of the creek downstream of the discharge point and found total suspended solids of 242 parts per million, while those upstream were only 8 parts per million.

Suspended solids are tiny pieces of pollutants that cloud the water and require special treatment to remove. High levels of suspended solids can be harmful to many different types of aquatic life.

Johnson Quarries is working to stabilize the remaining rock cuttings on-site.

The discharge was a violation of the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law, which prohibits unauthorized discharges of industrial waste to the waters of the commonwealth.

The $4,079 fine was paid to the Clean Water Fund, which is used to help pay for cleanups across the commonwealth.

SPCA Closes Abruptly--WNEP TV Video

Animal Shelter Closed Abruptly By PA SPCA

Monroe County SPCA Closes
By Trish Hartman WNEP TV

Monroe County's SPCA shelter closed for good Thursday with little notice.

It was an emotional day at the shelter in Stroud Township.

Officials with the SPCA in Philadelphia said lack of funds, lack of leadership and little community support led to the last-minute decision to close the shelter.

Volunteers are taking some of the animals at the Monroe County SPCA. Others will be taken to another shelter.

Jeremy Murcelo is a volunteer at the Monroe County SPCA near Stroudsburg. Now that the shelter is closing, he's decided to temporarily foster Bettis until he can find a permanent home.

"It's a horrible situation. The county needs this shelter. There's a lot of unwanted animals and this is the only place to actually bring them," Murcelo said.

Volunteers said they found out hours ago. More of this story...

More on SPCA in the Pocono Record

Calendar Of Events From GerriMiller.com

January 29
Members of the public are welcome to participate in the planning of programs for children in Potter County by attending the next meeting of the Integrated Children’s Services Planning Committee which will be held on at 10 am in the Potter County Human Services Building in Roulette. Committee members, parents and grandparents are particularly encouraged to attend. One of the committee’s success stories has been the Family Fun Fair at the Potter County Fairgrounds. Plans are being made for the fourth annual Fun Fair this summer. More information is available by calling 544-7315 or 1-800-800-2560.

The McKean County Conservation District and Penn State Cooperative Extension are co-sponsoring an Equine Informational Seminar and Crop Production and Pesticide Update Meeting at the Gethsemane Lutheran Church Hall on Arnold Avenue in Port Allegany. A free luncheon will be provided. The morning session is also free and is targeted at area horse owners. There is a fee for the afternoon session targeted at individuals needing pesticide update credits. The meeting will begin at 9:00 AM. Participants are asked to contact the McKean County Conservation District Office at 814-887-4001 or the Penn State Cooperative Extension Office of McKean at 814-887-5613 The meeting will be worth two core and two category pesticide update credits for private applicators to maintain their certification. Participants are welcome to attend the morning, afternoon, or whole day session.

January 30
The Potter County Pandemic Planning Committee will meet at 2:00 pm February 6 at the Charles Cole Memorial Hospital Wellness Center. Fred Peterson from the Hospital Council of Western PA will be the Guest Speaker. The Committee continues to work on the development of a Pandemic Plan for Potter County and is asking for input from community organizations & businesses. A representative from local businesses, ministries, emergency services, schools, county officials, county department heads, fuel suppliers, veterans, postal services, industries, senior citizen centers, news media, Department of Health, Department of Transportation, transportation services, contractors, food suppliers, area Chamber of Commerce, banks, hotels/motels, and other community organizations are encouraged to attend. Please contact the Potter County EMA office at 274-8900 before the close of business today to confirm your attendance.

The Tri-Town Fire and Ambulance Co. will be holding a Fish Fry tonight
at the fire hall on route 49 in Ulysses, PA from 5-7PM.
Cost is $8.50 for adults, $6.50 for seniors and children 12 & under.
Take outs are available by calling the station at 814-848-7611.

January 31
The Port Allegany Rotary Club and Charles Cole Hospital will have a Comprehensive Blood Analysis at the Port Allegany High School from 6:00 am to 10:00 am. A variety of screenings will be available Call the hospital’s centralized scheduling office for your appointment, 1-877-274-8200 anytime from 8:00am to 5:00pm.

The West End Trailblazers Snowmobile Club’s 7th Annual Winterfest to be held on saturday Jan. 31. It will be held at Kaple's Farm, Main St. in the village of Roulette. The time is 10:00am to 4 pm. This event will be held Snow or No Snow. We have money pits for the kids, games, Kari the Clown, hay ride, radar run, door prizes, chinese auction, good food and music by DJ Bill. Also free admission and fun for all ages.

There will be a pork and sauerkraut dinner and hymn sing at the Riverside United Methodist Church in Roulette beginning at 4:00 pm.

Gerri Miller.Com News

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Copyright: 2008 G.R. Miller. All Rights Reserved.
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Ulysses Man Charged with Hit and Run
Coudersport-based state police have charged 55 year old Michael Guryn of Ulysses with hit and run for an incident taking place Tuesday afternoon at Marion’s Restaurant, route 49 in Harrison Township. Troopers claim Guryn’s tractor trailer struck the left side of a Mazda owned by Brian Neiswender, also Ulysses while backing out of the parking lot and that Guryn fled the scene without notifying Neiswender or authorities but was later located.

Smethport Residents Involved in Separate Altercations
Steven Hartzell, 28 of Smethport has been charged with assault for an incident at the Corner Bar on West Main Street in that town early this morning. State police claim Hartzell punched 26 year old Mark Burlingame, also of Smethport in the face several times.

Harassment charges are pending against 37 year old Wendy Sarginger of Smethport for an incident allegedly taking place Wednesday morning at a residence off of the West Eldred Road. Authorities say Sarginger verbally threatened a victim during a verbal argument. And charges are pending in District Court. Read more news.....

Memorial Service For Merlyn Hoxsie Corey

Memorial Service Scheduled
Merlyn Hoxsie Corey, 82, of Coudersport, died Saturday, January 17, 2009 at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, in Coudersport.

Friends are invited to attend a memorial service to be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at Park United Methodist Church in Coudersport with the Reverend Scott Ogden, pastor, officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service for a time of fellowship and remembrance. Arrangements are under direction of Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 North East Street, Coudersport.

BACKPACK TO BRIEFCASE TO PREPARE PITT-BRADFORD STUDENTS FOR JOB SEARCH

Mark Benton To Speak Sat.
BRADFORD, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford will hold a career development seminar from 10:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, in the Frame-Westerberg Commons.

Organizers chose the theme “Lead with Your Strengths” to help students understand the importance of identifying and taking advantage of their best qualities as they contend with the challenges of the current economy.

The keynote speaker for the event is alumnus Mark P. Benton ’74-’75, a speaker, writer and founder, owner and president of Tri-County Events Inc., a company that delivers a wide range of sporting events, including camps, clinics, leagues and banquets. He has worked in both radio and television as a color commentator for high school and college football and basketball games. He serves on the education faculty at Medaille College in Buffalo.

In addition to Benton’s talk, alumni will present a variety of workshops and offer mock interviews.

Lindsay Hilton Retchless ’98, director of alumni relations, said that the workshop “Who’s Hiring Who?” will specifically address fields that are currently hiring and provide specific tips and strategies on finding employment during tough economic times.

“What helps make From Backpack to Briefcase so special is the large number of talented alumni who come to campus to lead workshops, serve on panels or conduct mock interviews,” Retchless said. “Our students are energized and motivated when they have a chance to talk one-on-one with someone who was in their shoes not so long ago.”

Workshops on planning for graduate school and making the most of the first year on the job were also added this year based on student interest and timeliness of the topics.

“If you aren’t having success in the job market, it can be a good way to go,” Retchless said. “If you’re even thinking about going to grad school, you need to know what the process is.”

From Backpack to Briefcase is presented by the Pitt-Bradford Alumni Association, Career Services Office and Entrepreneurship Program and sponsored by Northwest Savings Bank.

The day of workshops includes a luncheon with entertainment by the Pitt-Bradford Improvers comedy improvisation group, which will take a humorous look at the unexpected situations job seekers face.

PA County Governments Talking To Harrisburg

County Priorities Presented To Assembly

County governments from across the state are banding together to lobby the Pa. General Assembly on several legislative issues. Top priorities are tax equity and cost savings that can be achieved by county and local governments.

Jim Kennedy (Butler County), president of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP), said laws must be changed so that counties, townships and school districts are not so dependent on the real estate tax.

“We continue to call on the Assembly to authorize optional local tax bases, such as the sales tax or the personal income tax, in return for a dollar-for-dollar reduction in property taxes,” Kennedy said.

“But tax fairness also includes measures that affect the tax base and how services are funded, and this is why we are advocating the ability to assess oil and gas interests.” (See related story below). Pennsylvania remains one of the few states with significant oil and gas production that does not permit property taxes.

Assuring adequate funding for human services, as well as other important county-related programs such as conservation districts and cooperative extension, is the second priority, Kennedy said.

CCAP is also calling on the legislature to more fully fund county court expenses, including district attorney salaries.

Other CCAP priorities call on the state to:

• address funding for local roads, bridges and mass transit;
• reauthorize fees that support the 911 emergency response;
• restore fees to be used specifically for recycling efforts;
• clarify how changes of use involving land enrolled in the Clean and Green preferential assessment program can impact eligibility. Potter County Today
  

American Cancer Society & Patterson Cancer Care Center offer "Keeping Well in Mind and Body"

Cancer Program Offered

The American Cancer Society and Patterson Cancer Care Center
are offering a program for people with cancer, their family and
friends.

The program Keeping Well in Mind and Body will be offered on
February 24, 2009 at 6 PM at the Patterson Cancer Care Center
located on the Charles Cole Memorial Hospital campus. Program
Facilitator will be Tammy Huey, CRNP, Oncology Nurse
Practitioner at Patterson Cancer Care Center.

This program offers people who are facing cancer, including
patients, families and friends, an opportunity to interact with
others having similar experiences and learn ways to cope with
the challenges that arise from a cancer diagnosis in a supportive
and caring environment.

The American Cancer Society I Can Cope program is a component
of the American Cancer Society Cancer Resource Network - a free
comprehensive resource to help patients and their caregivers
manage the impact of cancer on their lives through up-to-date
cancer information.

For more information contact Patterson Cancer Care Center at
814.260.5555 or your local American Cancer Society at
1-888-227-5445 option 3.

Registration is requested to ensure adequate class materials.
This program is provided free of charge.

For up-to-date cancer information twenty-four hours a day,
seven days a week, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

Anne Holliday Interview With Governor Ed Rendell

LiveLine with Gov. Ed Rendell

Topics we discussed are:
~~ possible furloughs of state workers
~~ local grant money
~~ Dan Surra/Pennsylvania Wilds
~~ Lt. Gov. Joe Scarnati
~~ Super Bowl score prediction

Listen HERE.

Posted by Anne at 1:30:00 PM
1490 NewsBlog

Coudersport Ambulance Schedules Fundraiser

Coudersport Volunteer Ambulance
is having a
Chicken & Biscuit Dinner
on Sunday, February 8th
from 11:30 until 2:00 at
the ambulance hall.
Children - $4.50 (under 6 free),
regular - $6.50, Hungry Man - $7.50.

UGI Central Penn Gas Wants Rate Hike

UGI Central Penn Gas seeks rate increases

16% Increase In Residential Rates
Lock Haven Express

LOCK HAVEN- UGI Central Penn Gas has filed a request with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to increase its base rates for natural gas delivery service.

Officials say the increased rates would "fund system improvements and operations necessary to maintain safe and reliable natural gas service." The increase would also fund "additional energy assistance for low income customers, as well as conservation programs for all customers," the firm said in a press release.

"We are working hard to manage costs while continuing UGI CPG's strong legacy of safe and reliable natural gas delivery service," Peter G. Terranova, UGI vice president of marketing, rates and supply, stated. "By the time these new base rates are effective, it will have been nearly two and a half years since UGI CPG last raised base rates.

"We recognize a rate increase is never popular and we are very sensitive to the difficult economic times faced by households and businesses," he continued. "For these reasons, we are committed to providing and expanding programs and services that will help our customers better manage and afford their energy services."

If UGI CPG's request is approved in full, the bill for a typical residential customer who uses about 78.1 dekatherms (781 therms) of gas per year will increase $18, or 15.8 percent from $115 to $133 per month. The bill for a typical commercial customer who uses 349.2 dekatherms per year will increase $38, or 8.7 percent, from $433 to $471 per month. The bill for a typical industrial customer who uses 2,048.3 dekatherms per year will increase $206, or 8.8 percent, from $2,353 to $2,559 per month. More...

St. Paul's To Have "Souper Bowl" Luncheon

Sunday--11 to 1

St Paul's Lutheran Church Youth Group is having a "Souper Bowl" luncheon
on Sunday, February 1, 2009 from 11 am to 1 pm at the church parish center
on the corner of Allegany Ave and Borie Street in Coudersport. All you
can eat homemade soups, bread and dessert. Take outs available.

Proceeds will benefit the youth group mission trip to the youth conference
in New Orleans in July

Pain Killers Stolen From Bingham Township

Pa. police investigating theft of prescription pills

Star Gazette
Pennsylvania state police are searching for whoever took prescription pills from a Bingham Township home.

Police say that sometime between 11 p.m. Monday and 12 p.m. Tuesday 90 Percocet pills, eight fentanyl patches, 30 MS Contin pills and 30 Ibuprofen pills were taken from a home on Northern Potter Road. More...

Colegrove Guilty--WNEP TV Video Report

Matthew J. Wolfinger, 15, Coudersport, PA

Matthew J. Wolfinger, 15, of Coudersport, PA died Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at his home.

Born on September 15, 1993 in Coudersport, he was the son of Shawn D. and Karen A. Thorndill Wolfinger.

Matt was a ninth grade student at Coudersport High School where he participated in football, basketball, baseball and junior high track. He was a member of St. Eulalia Catholic Church where he served as an altar server. He loved to travel, ski, play his guitar, and make people laugh.

Surviving are his parents, Shawn and Karen Wolfinger, of Coudersport, his two brothers, Kevin and Aaron Wolfinger, at home, his paternal grandparents, Gladys Wolfinger, of Coudersport, Sandy and Connie Wolfinger of Portville, NY, his paternal aunt, Kelly Green and her husband, Brian, of Coudersport, and their children. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Ben and Dee Thorndill.

Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass to be celebrated at 11:00am Saturday, January 31, 2009 at St. Eulalia Catholic Church with the Reverend Joseph Czarkowski, pastor, as celebrant. Memorial contributions may be made to the Coudersport Sports Boosters, 698 Dwight Street, Coudersport, PA 16915. Arrangements are under the direction of the Fickinger Funeral Home of Coudersport.

Streamlining PA Earned Income Tax Collection

Law could save municipalities, districts millions

Rule streamlines ineffective earned-income tax collection

By DAVID THOMPSON dthompson@sungazette.com
Sun Gazette

Pennsylvania municipalities and school districts could save millions of dollars, thanks to a new law aimed at streamlining an inefficient earned-income tax collection system.

The law's goal is to centralize the collection of earned-income taxes by reducing the number of taxing authorities that collect them.

Under the current system, 560 collecting authorities collect almost $1.9 billion in earned income taxes from more than 2,900 taxing jurisdictions.

The system is "a hodgepodge of inefficient and uncoordinated systems," according to the

state Department of Community and Economic Development.

The system is so inefficient that an estimated $237 million is lost every year. This money could be used for other things such as road maintenance, water and sewer upgrades and education, according to the agency. More...

Area Obituaries

COUDERSPORT — Matthew J. Wolfinger, 15, of Coudersport, died Tuesday (Jan. 27, 2009) at his home. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Fickinger Funeral Home of Coudersport.

Port Allegany Woman Seriously Injured In Rt. 6 Crash

WESB News: 01/29/09 - Port Allegany Woman Hurt in Accident

A Port Allegany woman suffered major injuries in a two vehicle accident Wednesday afternoon on Route 6 in Roulette Township.

A car driven by 74 year-old Dorothy Hammond spun out of control and was struck by a car driven by 57 year-old Gretchen Songster of Coudersport.

Hammond was hospitalized with serious injuries. Songster wasn't injured.

Anne Holliday To Interview Governor Ed Rendell Today On WESB's Live Line

Anne To Interview Governor Today

On Thursday, Anne Holliday, News Director at WESB and WBRR in Bradford will be interviewing Governor Ed Rendell by telephone on Live Line.

Anne, who is becoming known as "the political authority" for this part of the state says: " I'll be talking with Governor Ed Rendell about what the budget crisis means for McKean County" and "I'll be asking him why he hasn't been up here for a while."

The LiveLine can be heard Monday through Thursday at 12:40pm on WESB Radio in Bradford.

This call-in talk show offers a place where WESB listeners can voice their opinions concerning local and national issues. We are hoping Anne will put the interview up on a podcast for those of us who are out of range of the station. Listen HERE

Anne interviewed Lt. Governor/Senator Joe Scarnati on Live Line on January 13, 2009. In that interview, Scarnati was asked if he planned to run for Governor in 2010? You can read about his answer in that interview here.

If you are a student of politics, Anne maintains the best political reporting in Northwest Pennsylvania, with her 1490 NewsBlog

Morgan AM&T Announces Layoffs At Coudersport

Morgan AM & T To Lay Off 47

Morgan AM&T workers got bad news Wednesday.

The Coudersport plant is going to lay off at least 47 employees as of Monday, February 1, 2009.

The layoff is reported to only be for one month, but the company did not set a definite return date.

The company will attempt to solicit volunteers for the layoff, but if they don't get enough, they will start from the bottom with mandatory layoffs.

Colegrove Guilty Of Murders Of Parents & Brother

Guilty Verdict in Colegrove Case

By Jim Hamill
WNEP-TV

The man accused of killing his parents and brother in Bradford County has been convicted of first-degree murder.

A jury in Towanda reached its verdict Wednesday evening after more than six hours of deliberation. Jurors found Steven Colegrove guilty on three counts each of first-degree murder and third-degree murder.

Closing arguments were heard Wednesday morning in the case. During closing arguments, Colegrove's defense team told jurors the case against the man from New York is circumstantial and that the prosecution wants the jury to "jump to conclusions."

Defense attorney William Miele tried to raise some doubt in jurors' minds, never actually claiming it was Colegrove's brother, Robert, who killed his parents and brother but said, "I don't know if Robert and Heather (his wife) committed the murders and neither do you."

Steven Colegrove, of Deposit, New York, is accused in the shooting deaths of his mother, Marlene, father, Joseph and brother, Michael. Their bodies were found at their home near Laceyville in August, 2007.

Bradford County District Attorney Daniel Barrett claimed the evidence against Steven Colegrove is "rock solid."

"It was my view whoever would do it would be someone who only thought of themselves because it's the most inconsiderate thing you could do to other people in human existence, to take away their lives," Barrett said.

The prosecution pointed to a bruise on Steven's right shoulder, suggesting he fired a shotgun during the time frame of the murders.

Also, blood from Michael Colegrove was found on a shotgun in upstate New York where Steven Colegrove lived.

"There is no room to challenge the DNA. The blood up there in Deposit, New York, there's only one connection between Deposit and Laceyville. That's Steven Colegrove," Barrett added.

A motive, according to prosecutors was that Steven Colegrove was having money problems and wanted to inherit money from his parents.

"The defense attempts to blame it on other people who had much more normal lives and normal values and something to lose, shouldn't be persuasive. Of course, it's up to the jury to decide," the district attorney said.

Steven Colegrove now faces the possibility of the death penalty. That phase of the trial is expected to begin Friday in Bradford County.

Peanut Product Recall Expanded

Peanut Corporation of America Expands Nationwide Recall of Peanut Products (January 28)

Uncle Eddies Vegan Cookies Announces Recall of Uncle Eddies Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate-Chip Cookies Because of Possible Health Risk (January 28)

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Recalls Three Bakery Products with Peanuts (January 29)

Wells' Dairy Announces Voluntary Recall of Select Blue Bunny Products Because of Possible Health Risk (January 29)

Fieldbrook Foods Corp. Announces Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Select Ice Cream Novelty Products Due to Possible Health Risk (January 29)