J C Penney Exiting--Walmart Coming???

This person holds a sign Saturday on the Corner of Main Street and East Second Street in Coudersport where J.C. Penney is closing a store on Main Street. Temps were in the 20's.
J.C. Penney Store on Main Street in Coudersport, Potter County, PA slated to close soon. Penneys have been reporting slow sales nationwide. Residents are hoping this will pave the way for Walmart to build a store in Potter County. Area residents have to drive at least 35 miles to find a Walmart or similar store. Local stores do a great job in the items they specialize in but it's hard to find everything you might need locally, especially now with Penneys leaving town.

Question About Austin Dam--Can You Help?

I am Cari Spano. You found my blog after my husband and I visited Coudersport last weekend. Thank you for the new traffic you generated for my blog. I am trying to write my post about the Austin Dam and I was wondering if you or someone you know would be able to clear up a question for me.

I have photographs of the buildings downstream from the failed dam and I am not exactly sure what they are.

Initially, my husband thought they were the Bayless Mill that were damaged by the flood. I can't wrap my mind around that. It seems that mill would have been totally destroyed. Could it be the rebuilt Bayless Mill, after the flood and if so do you know what eventually happened to cause it to shut down and when that might have been?

If this is too much trouble to answer, I understand. Life is busy.

I have a couple of beautiful photos of the buildings in the snow and I just wanted to be accurate about what it is.

Cari in Ohio

If you can help Cari out with this , either post it in comments here or write me at shurfine40@gmail.com--Thanks

Car Hits Pole In Port Allegany Crash

BREAKING NEWS
Port Allegany ambulance has responded to a motor vehicle into a pole on North Main Street in Port Allegany where injuries are reported.

Area Obituaries

PORT ALLEGANY — Jewell C. Meacham, 93, of Advance, N.C., and formerly of Mill Street, Port Allegany, died Thursday (Jan. 24, 2008) in Winston-Salem, N.C., after a brief illness. Arrangements are under the direction of the Switzer Funeral Home.

ROULETTE, Pa. - Frances E. Knowlton, 90, formerly of Fishing Creek Road and Caitlin Ave., Port Allegany, died Wednesday (Jan. 23, 2008) in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport.

McGANN, Louise S. ,Age 82, of Grant Street, Wellsboro, PA, died January 24, 2008 at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital. She was the wife of the late Charles E. McGann who died April 23, 1996. Louise was born January 1, 1926 in Galeton, PA, the daughter of the late William R. and Vera Rorabaugh Snyder. She was a graduate of Ryder University, Trenton, NJ, and a retired travel agent and office manager with West Penn AAA Travel Agency in Punxsutawney. Louise was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Wellsboro. Surviving are daughter, D.L. McGann; sister, Helen S. Anderson; nieces, Mia Lisa Anderson and Lori A. Kriner; grandnephew, Chase A. Kriner; grandniece, Kathryn Leigh Kriner, all of Wellsboro, PA. There will be no visitation. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bibiana's Catholic Church, 111 Germania Street, Galeton, PA with Father Joe Daugherty officiating. Burial in West Hill Cemetery, Galeton, PA. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to the Wellsboro Fireman's Ambulance Association, 21 Pearl Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901. www@lifecelebration.com

PORT ALLEGANY — Ida Jane McQuillen, 79, of Port Allegany died Wednesday (Jan. 23, 2008) in the Lakeview Senior Care & Living Center, Smethport. The Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc., is in charge of arrangements.

MOUNT JEWETT — Louise E. Mitchell, 81, formerly of Port Allegany, and a resident of Mount Jewett for the past six years, died Tuesday (Jan. 22, 2008) in Sena-Kean Manor after a brief stay. The Cummings Funeral Home Inc. in Mount Jewett is in charge of arrangements.

5TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

Tionesta man enters House race

Wood products company CEO is eighth Republican to seek nomination

Mike Joseph

A businessman from the least populated of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties has become the eighth Republican to seek his party’s nomination for the 5th District congressional seat left up for grabs by Rep. John Peterson’s decision not to seek re-election.

Schall

Tionesta resident Richard Schall, CEO of Forest County Wood Products for more than 30 years, announced via a widely distributed e-mail late Friday that he’s in the race.

Schall could not be reached for comment but the e-mail said his business experience and work as chairman of the Forest County Industrial Development Authority give him first-hand knowledge of the importance of economic development for the region.

Forest County, which has a 2000 census population of 4,946, is one of 16 counties in the district and, as its name suggests, may be at the rural heart of the district, midway between Interstate 80 and the New York border.

Tionesta, the county seat, has a population of about 600 and is about eight miles from Peterson’s hometown of Pleasantville in Venango County.

Schall said he and his wife, Mary, are active in the United Methodist Church and have served on missions to Latin America, Eastern Europe and elsewhere. They recently founded a program in the Republic of Komi in Russia that helps to place Russian orphans into Russian families.

He has taught mass communications research at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and said in Congress he would work to reduce campaign advertising and other spending.

Other Republicans seeking the nomination include former Centre County commissioner Chris Exarchos, State College businessman Matt Shaner, Elk County Coroner Lou Radkowski, former Woodward Township (Lycoming County) Supervisor Jeff Stroehmann, Clarion Mayor John Stroup, Centre County Republican Party Chairman G.T. Thompson and Bigler financial consultant Derek Walker.

Three Democrats — State College native Bill Cahir, Clearfield County Commissioner Mark McCracken and Lock Haven Mayor Rick Vilello — are seeking their party’s nomination in the April 22 primary election.

To have his name printed on the primary ballot, each candidate must file nomination petitions signed by at least 1,000 voters by Feb. 12.

Mike Joseph can be reached at 235-3910. Republished with permission from the Centre Daily times.

Rising out of the ashes

Amish gather to help rebuild homebadly damaged by Sunday blaze

MADISONBURG — Six days ago, Melvin Fisher stood and watched as a fire ripped through the top story of his home.

He thought it possible he and his wife, Susan, had lost most of their belongings.

But Friday a new house rose in the place where the Amish couple’s old home once stood, thanks to countless volunteers who are helping the family rebuild.

“It’s amazing, overwhelming,” Fisher said looking toward the home.

About 30 Amish men worked tirelessly Friday, raising the walls and roof, and adding doors and windows to the new home in one day.

On Thursday, there was nothing but a hole and foundation; by Friday night, the house was expected to have heat, Fisher said. Read the rest of this story in the Centre Daily Times.

Group Files Appeal To Wind Farm Approval

Group files appeal to nullify wind farm approval

By CHERYL R. CLARKE - cclarke@sungazette.com

WELLSBORO — The Tioga Preservation Group has filed an appeal in Tioga County Court to try to block plans to construct a wind farm with more than 120 turbines on Armenia Mountain starting in the spring.

The appeal was filed by the group Jan. 17, asking that the judge “nullify” the preliminary conditional approval granted to AES Armenia Mountain Wind LLC, by the Tioga County Planning Commission Dec. 12, group member Frank Piccolella said.

Piccolella, a Lycoming County resident who formed the group with several other landowners in Tioga County, said his property adjoins the Tioga County line near Liberty and though he would not be directly affected by the wind farm, the Laurel Ridge project proposed by Catamount Energy project that is still tied up at the state court level, “would be right across the street from me,” he said.

So far, the court has not set a date for the case to be heard, he added.

“The preliminary conditional approval granted by the Planning Commission does not give them the right to start construction,” he said. “They still have to get several permits.”

The only permits that AES has obtained, he said, are those involving telecommunications and lighting for the Federal Aviation Administration and they have agreed to decommissioning the turbines and removing them at the end of their usable life, Piccolella said.

“The way our attorney explained it is AES has to follow the subdivision ordinance to the letter and Jim Weaver (Tioga County Planner) doesn’t have the authority to say they can only partly follow it,” he said.

According to the subdivision ordinance, he said, any commercial or industrial use construction that abuts private property has to be screened from view, he said “but they can’t screen a 400 foot tower from view,“ he said, “but the subdivision must still be followed to the letter.”

Gov. Ed Rendell has mandated that a percentage of energy generated in Pennsylvania must come from renewable energy sources by the next decade, but “that doesn’t mean we have to do it in Tioga County. He just said you have to come up with a percentage of energy from renewable sources state wide,” Piccolella said.

“On the federal level they did away with that mandate a couple months ago because it is not attainable, I am wondering if they will do the same on the state level,” he said.

“You’d have to put them on every hilltop in Pennsylvania to attain that,” he added.

Though AES cannot start construction at the site with the preliminary conditional approval, it can survey the site, and according to a neighbor whose property adjoins the project site, “they are up there doing that, and they can continue working on getting their permits.”

AES project engineer Bob White declined to comment on ongoing litigation.

Tioga County Planner Jim Weaver could not be reached for comment Friday.
From Sun Gazette

McKean Has Saturday Morning Accidents

BREAKING NEWS:

The day started off early for car accidents in McKean County this morning. Eldred Twp. and Boro Ambulance were called out at 4:40 am to the West Eldred Road where a car had hit a house. Medics were cancelled as the woman occupant was reportedly not injured.

Around 8:00 am, emergency services were notified of a car into the guard rails on Minard Run near Bradford. Again no injuries were reported.

Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. Recognized With 3 Awards

From the Lock Haven Express

STATE COLLEGE — Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc., a State College based paving contractor has received three significant awards for their performance in paving our roads and highways.

These awards from the National Asphalt Paving Association— an 1100 member organization — and the Pennsylvania Asphalt Pavers Association recognize Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc. for exemplary performance in the design and construction of road surfaces utilizing hot-mix asphalt to provide motorists with quiet, smooth and safe pavement to travel on.

The three projects involved distinct regions of company operations across the state.

Eight miles of I-80 in Venango County were paved with Stone Matrix Asphalt working in cooperation PennDOT on material specifications to achieve superior quality results garnering the national award.

In Centre County 5 miles of I-80 were paved and in Tioga County 4.5 miles of Route 6 were paved by GOH after partnering with Penn DOT.

These projects represent 475,612 tons of asphalt paving material.

The awards result from the Department of Transportation engineers scoring paving jobs across the state with these jobs receiving some of the highest scores possible. Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc. can be reached at 814-237-1444.

Hawbaker operates a plant in Turtlepoint, Mc Kean County, PA that provides stone and blacktop to the area and a gravel plant in Shinglehouse, Potter County, PA.

Larry Cook Cuts Up At Potter County Century Farm

Photo by James Jones
Larry Cook, farm manager at Kaple's Century Farm in Roulette, cuts up wood for the outside wood boiler that heats the farmhouse. Click on picture to enlarge.



This boiler doesn't make much smoke to maintain the heat on a cold day.

911 County Survey Continues

Potter County EMA reports that the field verification process for the Enhanced 911 emergency response system continues and notes that residents will continue to see field crews until all areas are completed, a process that will be done in stages over the next few months.

All field vehicles are identified with “911 County Survey” signs.

Persons with questions about the project are invited to call the EMA office at 274-8900.
From WFRM News

WFRM Reports County Commissioners

During the January 7 organizational meeting, Potter County Commissioner Paul Heimel said he was hopeful that the gym in the former Adelphia school building, now the Gunzburger annex would soon be available to the public. But at the commissioners regular meeting on Janaury 17, Heimel said the gym is like a lot of garages and basements, full of stuff.

Meanwhile Chairman Doug Morley has his eye on the gym for a staging area when the big move takes place.

The Commissioners told WFRM recently that they are hoping PCHS and other county offices will be able to move into the building sometime this coming spring.

A couple of county offices have already set up shop there, the Probation Department; Public Defender and Register of Wills/Recorder of Deeds.

Galeton Teen Cited After Car Crash

A Galeton teenager has been cited for failing to drive at a safe speed following one-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon on Route 144 just north of the Button Hollow Road in West Branch Township.

State police said the teen was traveling too fast for conditions when her southbound burgundy 2003 Subaru went off the road on a right hand curve, traveled off the eastern edge of the road, went down a 12 foot embankment and struck a tree with the left rear quarter panel then a second tree with the right front fender before coming lodged between the trees.

The sedan had to be towed from the scene. From WFRM News

Car Crash Reported On RT. 872 & Dutch Hill

BREAKING NEWS:
Coudersport Ambulance has been dispatched to the intersection of Rt. 872 and Dutch Hill Road to transport the victim of a motor vehicle accident at 5:26 pm on Friday, January 25, 2008.

Traders Take A Profit From Yesterday's Rise

Market summary - hide

Dow	12,207.17	-171.44	(-1.38%)
Nasdaq	2,326.20	-34.72	(-1.47%)
S&P 500	1,330.61	-21.46	(-1.59%)

Sunny Weather Brings Out The Traffic Cops

Photo by Solomon's Words
A Pennsylvania State Trooper makes a traffic stop on Route 6 in front of Close's Lumber Co. in Roulette this afternoon. Bright sunshine and clear roads gave Potter County troopers a break to do some traffic patrol. Recent slippery roads have had them running lately to investigate all the crashes.

Great Weather For Winterfest In Roulette

The weather service is predicting lows in the teens tonight followed by temps in the twenties on Saturday. On top of that, they are calling for light snow, in the neighborhood of an inch or so.

That has the makings of a great day for the West End Trailblazer's sixth annual Winterfest at the Ted and Diane Kaple Century Farm on the west end of Main Street in the Village of Roulette in Potter County, PA.

Trailblazers president Paul Althouse says "Bring the whole family for a fun filled day". The club will host the event from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturday, January 26, 2008. There's games for the kids, food at the barn, and lots of room to ride your snowmobiles. There is a radar run from noon to 2:00 pm where you can test the speed of your snowmobile or compete with other snowmobiles.

Even if you don't have a snowmobile, its a fun day just to watch the brightly colored snowmobiles and their riders cruise around the large farm fields. There will be a clown doing face painting, and old fashioned hayrides.

The club sponsors chicken barbeques to raise funds to maintain trails in the West end of Potter County that tie into other trails that can take you all the way to the Grand Canyon and beyond.

Club secretary Tillie Hinkle says to remember to bring your own gasoline for your sled as the Roulette area does not have gas available this year.

Snowmobilers with sleds for sale can bring them for display and dealers are invited too.

Bucks County Fireman Pulls Driver From Flaming Car

By DAN GOLDEN

Bucks County Courier Times

BUCKINGHAM - Lucky for Arlene Brag that Chas McHenry carries a small pocketknife when he goes to work.

On Thursday just after 8 a.m., McHenry used that knife to cut the seat belt in Brag's car after the Northampton woman struck a tree in a one-vehicle accident on Swamp Road between Smith and Dark Hollow roads in Buckingham.

With the seat belt free, McHenry, who lives in Buckingham and was on his way to work as a carpenter, and an unidentified bystander were able to pull Brag from the driver's seat as flames climbed up the windshield of the vehicle. Within minutes, the vehicle was fully involved.

“It didn't smell like anti-freeze,” said McHenry, who drove his truck into the field and up to the scene of the accident. “It smelled like burning plastic.”

McHenry, 37, a member of the Lingohocken Fire Co., saw smoke coming from under the crumpled hood, which increased his sense of urgency in getting the woman out of the car.

A female bystander called 911 and McHenry urged her to tell the dispatcher that a rescue was needed. He peeked under the hood and saw a few flames that were extinguished when another bystander threw some water on the vehicle. The flames did not stay extinguished for long.

“The fire flared,” said McHenry, adding no one had a fire extinguisher.

As flames were coming out from under the hood and up the windshield of the car, the unidentified bystander held the door open as McHenry got behind the woman, lifted her and managed to get the upper part of her body nearly out of the car, but her legs were stuck beneath the dashboard.

McHenry, who stands about 6 feet tall and weighs about 250 pounds, pulled on the woman from the back to free her, but the woman screamed. He pulled the woman once again, and again she complained of the extreme pain. McHenry, with the flames rising from the front of the car, pulled once more and the woman came free.

“We were passed the point of being gentle,” McHenry said.

Buckingham police Sgt. J.R. Landis said Brag was taken to St. Mary Medical Center in Middletown. The hospital did not have any information on her condition Thursday night.

As for McHenry, a married father of two girls, he wanted to thank the man who helped pull Brag to safety.

McHenry never made it to work on Thursday. He hurt his back in the course of the rescue. To see more fire service stories from the local area, go to Potter County Fire News.

Pictures from NBC 10-See Carpenter pulls woman from burning car.

Skinny Started A New Blog Today

What do you think?

I just called the drug store for a print out of all the prescriptions for the year for the whole family. They informed me that my wife was not allowed to pick up my print out. And you had to have photo Id to pick it up. However they will mail it to you. But my wife or even my mom can go and pick up my prescription for me. You would think that prescription drug would be more important then a piece of paper. That is a very stupid law. What do you think?

My friend , Danny Skinner just started a new blog today called "I Want Your Opinion". The question above is from his blog this morning. He'd like your opinion on this and other subjects. Click on the links above to see Danny's new blog. I think you'll like it. Editor

911---Was It An Inside Job?

"The Minneapolis FBI agents who responded to the tips were unable to persuade their superiors in Washington to seek a national security warrant to search Moussaoui's belongings and laptop computer."

The above statement is included in a story today in the Star Gazette about how the Bush administration paid a former Wellsboro man 5 million dollars for information resulting in the conviction of a man who was to have flown one of the planes in the 911 attacks on the world trade center and the pentagon.

It certainly would make a person wonder why the FBI superiors in Washington weren't interested in searching this potential terrorist's belongings and laptop.

We Have Mail-"Big Oil Is Raping Us"

Anonymous said...

This is how it works. The Rich get richer.
Instead of giving the taxpayers a rebate how about this.

Energy Transmission companies like Williams, Dominion, Tenneco, National Fuel, Electrical companies and
Many others are regulated by the US Government on how much they can charge the general public. This regulation is called
“FERC Regulated” (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission).

When ever these companies want to raise their prices they have to show FERC reasons why they need to raise the public’s cost.

This is called a “Rate Case”. FYI, this doesn’t happen daily, monthly or even yearly. These companies sometimes will go years without
Having a “Rate Case”.

On the other hand “Big Oil” The companies that produce our gasoline & oil products can change their prices
When ever they want! In fact, in the time it has taken me to type this and the time it takes you to read it you can bet the gas & oil
Prices have changed.

Don’t get me wrong, I think we pay too much for all energy services but “Big Oil” is raping us!

Why isn’t the government regulating these companies on price gouging like they do to the other energy providers?

This remains a mystery…………hmmmmmmmmmm the plain fact is when the oil companies are making money so isn’t the
Good old US Government!

Friday, January 25, 2008 9:08:00 AM EST

Real ID deadline extended for Pa.

Law would require greater proof for driver's licenses.

By RICHARD FELLINGER
Harrisburg bureau

Article Last Updated: 01/24/2008 09:11:10 AM EST

At bottom: · ABOUT REAL ID

Jan 24, 2008 — Pennsylvania has been granted a 20-month extension to decide if it wants to comply with the Real ID Act, a controversial federal law setting national standards for driver's licenses.

The 2005 law gives states until May 11 to comply, but Pennsylvania officials learned Wednesday morning that federal officials approved their request for an extension until Dec. 31, 2009, said Deputy Transportation Secretary Kurt Myers.

States that don't comply would have driver's licenses that couldn't be used for boarding an airplane or entering a federal building. The law allows states to seek additional extensions, if they meet certain standards, before it begins to take effect in 2014.

Myers informed the House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee of the extension at a three-hour hearing at which lawmakers grilled federal and state officials about the law.

The law will force all license holders to visit their Department of Transportation with four documents, including a birth certificate and proof of residence, to get a compliant license. States will also be required to maintain a database that can be accessed electronically by other states.

Read more in the York Daily Record.

Area Obituaries

PORT ALLEGANY — Jewell C. Meacham, 93, of Advance, N.C., and formerly of Mill Street, Port Allegany, died Thursday (Jan. 24, 2008) in Winston-Salem, N.C., after a brief illness. Arrangements are under the direction of the Switzer Funeral Home.

ROULETTE, Pa. - Frances E. Knowlton, 90, formerly of Fishing Creek Road and Caitlin Ave., Port Allegany, died Wednesday (Jan. 23, 2008) in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport.

McGANN, Louise S. ,Age 82, of Grant Street, Wellsboro, PA, died January 24, 2008 at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital. She was the wife of the late Charles E. McGann who died April 23, 1996. Louise was born January 1, 1926 in Galeton, PA, the daughter of the late William R. and Vera Rorabaugh Snyder. She was a graduate of Ryder University, Trenton, NJ, and a retired travel agent and office manager with West Penn AAA Travel Agency in Punxsutawney. Louise was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Wellsboro. Surviving are daughter, D.L. McGann; sister, Helen S. Anderson; nieces, Mia Lisa Anderson and Lori A. Kriner; grandnephew, Chase A. Kriner; grandniece, Kathryn Leigh Kriner, all of Wellsboro, PA. There will be no visitation. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bibiana's Catholic Church, 111 Germania Street, Galeton, PA with Father Joe Daugherty officiating. Burial in West Hill Cemetery, Galeton, PA. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to the Wellsboro Fireman's Ambulance Association, 21 Pearl Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901. www@lifecelebration.com

PORT ALLEGANY — Ida Jane McQuillen, 79, of Port Allegany died Wednesday (Jan. 23, 2008) in the Lakeview Senior Care & Living Center, Smethport. The Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc., is in charge of arrangements.

MOUNT JEWETT — Louise E. Mitchell, 81, formerly of Port Allegany, and a resident of Mount Jewett for the past six years, died Tuesday (Jan. 22, 2008) in Sena-Kean Manor after a brief stay. The Cummings Funeral Home Inc. in Mount Jewett is in charge of arrangements.

Lock Haven Hotel Project On Schedule

By WENDY STIVER - wstiver@lockhaven.com

LOCK HAVEN — “The project’s moving along right on schedule,” said Matt Shaner of the proposed development at the former Painter Stadium.

Shaner was in town this week for an informal meet-and-greet session at Eyer’s Cafe, where he answered questions about the $15 million development project and his bid for Congress.

A Republican, Shaner has joined the field of candidates for U.S. Rep. John Peterson’s seat, now that the incumbent has announced he will retire.

Shaner has been a familiar face at local municipal meetings representing the stadium site developer, Shaner Investments L.P. of State College, a company his father, Lance Shaner, co-founded.

The deal to develop the 5.4 acres on Spring Street involved Keystone Central School District’s sale of the property to the city and using the funds toward its new football stadium at Central Mountain High School.

The sale gave the city control over the site, which links Lock Haven University to the downtown, and City Council chose Shaner’s proposal as the best. The developer wants to build a Fairfield Inn of suites, an upscale condominium building and two restaurants.

Now that the details of the ‘‘Tax Incremental Financing’’ plan has been worked out, Shaner said, the closing between the developer and the city should come at the end of February and the contractor, Poole Anderson of State College, could break ground as early as March or April.

The hotel and the first phase of the condos should open in early 2009, Shaner said, with the restaurants to follow “shortly thereafter.”

He will continue to have charge of the project during his campaign, but Patrick Joliet, the company’s executive director, and other staff members also will lead it. From the Sun Gazette.

Fatal Crash On I-86

WESB News: 01/25/08 - Olean Womans Dies in Car Accident

An Olean woman died in a one car accident Wednesday night on I-86 between exits 23 and 24 in the Town of Carrolton.

New York State Police say a car driven by 34 year-old Michelle Robinson went off the interstate on the eastbound lane and struck a tree.

Robinson was pronounced dead at the scene by Cattaraugus County Coroner Brad Spink.

Human Bones Found In Bald Eagle State Park

By Sara Ganim

The skeletal remains of a human were found Wednesday in Bald Eagle State Park.

State police at Rockview said the bones were found in Howard Township around 3:25 p.m. Wednesday. A forensic anthropologist determined the bones were human remains.

Read more of this story in the Centre Daily times.

Calendar Of Events From WFRM

January 26

The Mainsburg United Methodist Church in Tioga County have a roast beef dinner from 4:30- 6:30 p.m. Adults, $8.00; children 5-12, $4.00 The Youth Group will also have a bake sale. Proceeds will benefit the church which is located five miles east of Mansfield on Route 6.

January 26 and 27

The Bradford Little Theatre’s production of “Disney’s High School Musical.” the stage version of the popular Disney Channel movie will premiere on the Bradford High School Auditorium stage with a matinee performance on Saturday, January 26 at 2:00 p.m. A second performance will follow on the same day at 7:30 p.m., followed by a matinee on Sunday, January 27 at 2 p.m. Tickets may be obtained from the following outlets in Bradford: Brauser’s, Graham Florist, Ott & McHenry Pharmacy, Smith’s, and Tina’s Hallmark. Ticket prices are $8.00 in advance or $9.00 at the door. Inquiries about group rates are directed to BLT Treasurer Dick Marcott at 362-2942.“High School Musical” tickets may be used at any of the three performances. There is no reserved seating. About three dozen teenagers from nine different schools in Pennsylvania and southern New York have been rehearsing the musical since late October.

January 26

The West End Trailblazers Snowmobile Club will have their 6^th annual Winter Fest from 10:00 to 4:00 on Main Street in Roulette. There will be food and beverages, wagon rides, a money pit, clown, games and music by a dj snow or no snow.

January 26

The Grace Lutheran Church on Mechanic Street in Bradford will have a Money Map Simulcast from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lunch is included in the $10 ticket which is available by calling Kathy at 362-3909 or call the church office at 362-3244. Topics to be covered include how to get out of debt and save for the future; how to invest wisely; budget effectively etc.

Genessee Couple Injured In Harrison Valley Crash

A Genesee woman has been cited for failing to drive at a safe speed after her SUV collided with three parked unattended vehicles Tuesday morning in Harrison Valley.

State police say Kathleen Bogsch lost control of her eastbound Chevy Suburban on a curve. The unit crossed to the other side of the road and entered the parking lot of the Dandy Mini Mart where it hit three other vehicles.

The front bumper of the Suburban hit the rear panel of a Dodge Durango, then ran into a Kia Sportage head-on and pushed it backwards. The drivers side of the Bogsch vehicle the struck the right corner of a GMC pick-up while continuing to push the Kia SUV backwards, striking the Durango a second time and catching its front bumper.

The driver and her husband, William, were taken to Charles Cole Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. From WFRM News

OOPS! Sorry About Your E-Mail......

Charter Communications has just fessed up to permanently deleting the e-mail files of 14,000 of their customers. Subscribers were notified of the goof and have been offered a $50. credit in place of these irreplaceable files, photos and addresses.

In Coudersport, nearly 100 agents, working for Empereon Marketing, are currently selling Charter's cable, internet, and phone services across the country from the former Adelphia and Time Warner call center.

US To Give Away Money--Big Oil Wants It

By James Jones
Newspapers around the country are reporting that the US is preparing to give taxpayers $600. to $1200. and even more if you have kids, to help stimulate the economy.

In the meantime, BIG OIL, that had dropped $20.00 a barrel came up $2.00 today and will probably continue to rise so they can get their share of the rebate.

They are the reason for the slowdown in the economy in the first place, as people have had to spend 3 times as much to get to work or to town to buy groceries, as they did a couple of years ago.

It doesn't take too much smarts to figure out why people can't buy. The price of oil and gas has increased the cost of everything we buy. I mean like doubled the price of groceries, and the cost to heat the house. It's ever raised the price of wood for the wood stove.

But somehow social security figured the cost of living only increased 2.3% this year. I don't know how they figure this. Medicare prescriptions and supplement ate that up, and more, for less coverage this year.

Winter Fest 08 At Roulette This Saturday

By James Jones
This sign on Route 6 in Roulette, Potter County, PA tells travelers about the 2008 Winter Fest to be held in the field in the background this Saturday, January 26, 2008, put on by the West End Trailblazers snowmobile club.

The hours for the event are 10:00 am 'till 4:00 pm. Radar runs are scheduled from noon to 2:00 pm where snowmobilers compete for the fastest speeds measured by radar.

The event is the 6th time for the snowmobile club, who hold this event annually at the Ted and Diane Kaple Century Farm on West Main Street in the little Village of Roulette in Potter County, which straddles headwaters of the Allegheny River (which incidentally is an excellent trout stream.)

On Thursday, there are a few inches of snow and the weather is very cold, with occasional heavy snow squalls, assuring that there will be snow on Saturday. Regardless of the amount of snow, the event goes ahead anyway. Besides riding snowmobiles, there are a lot of things to do.

There will be old fashioned hayrides; a money pit for the kids, broken up by ages; Kari The Clown will be there to do some creative pace painting; door prizes and raffles. There will be music throughout the day by deejay Bill Emerson.

There will be plenty of food available in the barn including homemade chili, hot dogs, and sloppy joes. Coffee, hot cocoa, and sodas will be available, as well as a fire barrel to warm your hands.

Although there are no dealers signed up to display their wares this year, dealers and individuals are invited to set up and sell or demonstrate snowmobiles for sale. Several individuals will be offering snowmobiles for sale.

This event traditionally draws a large crowd and the farm fields are alive with snowmobiles and their riders. The West End Trailblazers invite you to come for a fun filled day.

Participants are reminded that there is no gasoline available in Roulette this year, so if you need gas, bring it with you.

Friendship, NY Man Charged In NC Murder

Three Western New York residents, including one from Allegany County, are in custody in connection with a murder in North Carolina.

New York State Police say when they stopped a car Wednesday in Batavia, they discovered the car belonged to Dana Davis, of Morgantown, North Carolina. Meanwhile, police in North Carolina had found Davis' body in his home.

The two occupants of the car, John Brant, of Friendship, and Daniel Wolff, of Batavia, have been charged with murder. Police believe robbery may have been the motive for the killing. The third suspect, Malinda Falk, of Batavia, has been charged as being a fugitive from justice.

All three have been arraigned in Genesee County, and are expected to be turned over to authorities in North Carolina. From Canisteo Valley News

Man Hurt In Logging Accident

WESB News: 01/24/08 - Logging Accident Near Route 321

A 20-year-old man suffered a head injury Thursday morning in a logging accident off of Route 321 about 2 miles from the Bradford Ranger Station.

At about 10:30 the man was hit in the head by a falling tree, and was unconscious for a short period of time.

No medical helicopters were available because of weather.

A Visit To Coudersport--Potter County--PA

Squirrel's Holler

This past weekend, my hubby and I set out on an adventure to North Central, Pennsylvania, and a little town along the Allegheny River named Coudersport. Twice a year, my hubby and a group of his friends go trout fishing in a town a little more than three hours away. A town almost lost to time, save for the McDonald's and Sheetz. I nicknamed the place Squirrel's Holler, as Coudersport just does not do the town justice.

The entire point of our journey was to pick up a large brook trout that my hubby caught back in the fall. The trout has spent the last few months in the hands of a taxidermist, being mounted and spray painted. I don't know much about taxidermy. I'm glad. When we went to pick up the trout, my husband, the man who has loved me for 27 years thought I needed to go in and see all the dead animals. I didn't have the heart to refuse him, he was so excited. That my friends, is an image I will never be able to get out of my head again! Bear, bear cubs, raccoons peeping out of trees, a little teeny tiny spotted fawn curled up to look as if it were sitting in the grass...DEAD, something in the wolf/coyote/fox family...I don't know which, after the baby deer, (I was trying to blur my eyes so my brain could not totally register this nightmare) and big-huge creatures with wings (again, the blurred eyes). The things we do for love! See the rest of this blog.

Thomas Fijalkovich Dies In Airplane Accident

Thomas Fijalkovich, age 68, of Ravenna, Ohio, passed away at 7:30 p.m. Wed. Jan.16, 2008, due to an airplane accident. Tom was born on December 16, 1939 in Smock, PA, the son of Joseph Andrew & Angelica Nellie (Drozeck) Fijalkovich. Tom has lived in Shalersville since 1975 formerly of Cleveland, OH and Smock, PA. He served in the US Army and spent most of his time in Japan. Tom was a highly experienced pilot. He took his first flight lesson in May of 1966 and obtained his instrument instructors license in fixed wing aircraft and helicopters as well as a Transport Pilot Rating. He was one of a very few in Ohio that also had a float plane instructors rating. Tom has donated many hours of his time and his own helicopter to give rides to kids at Camp Cheerful, OH, the VFW, and many fairs and car shows around the area. Tom taught hundreds of people to fly both in airplanes and helicopters. He even flew Santa into Ravenna for Christmas. Tom was a tool design maker for the Ford Motor Company in Cleveland until the 70's when he became partners in the company Super Finishers with John Bucar and then later Frank Bucar. Tom retired in 2001 after working with Frank for over 25 years. He loved to travel--especially to Florida, the Bahamas, and Cancun, Mexico. He has flown to many parts of the world including Brazil, Mexico and flying over Cuba on the way. Tom loved to ride his Harley with his sons, Jimmy, David and his many friends. Tom was a member of Eagles and the VFW in Ravenna. Tom is survived by his son, James R. Fijalkovich of Shalersville, Ohio, son & daughter-in-law David & Stacie Fijalkovich of Broadview Heights, OH, 5 brothers, Joe Fijalkovich of Mantua, Richard (Jerry) Fijalkovich of Carolton, OH, brothers & sisters-in-law, Frank & Kathy Fijalkovich of Strongsville, Ohio and Andy & Judy Fijalkovich of Garfield Heights, OH, John Robert & Kathy Fijalkovich of Seven Hills, PA; 3 grandchildren: grandson, Jesse Fijalkovich of Coudersport, PA; grandson, Jacob Fijalkovich, and granddaughter, Sarah Fijalkovich of Ravenna, OH.

Tioga Commissioners Approve Security Cameras

By Cherlyl Clarke Sun Gazette

STONY FORK — Visitors to Tioga County commissioners’ meetings soon will find themselves being watched — by a security camera.

Commissioners took action Tuesday at their monthly “on the road” meeting at the Delmar Township building to approve four extra cameras for “blind spots,” including the meeting room and parking lot, commissioner Sue Vogler said. The commissioners’ security team recommended the additional security measure.

The extra four cameras will add $7,052 to the $118,000 project for 35 total cameras in and around the courthouse.

Area Obituaries

PORT ALLEGANY — Ida Jane McQuillen, 79, of Port Allegany died Wednesday (Jan. 23, 2008) in the Lakeview Senior Care & Living Center, Smethport. The Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc., is in charge of arrangements.

MOUNT JEWETT — Louise E. Mitchell, 81, formerly of Port Allegany, and a resident of Mount Jewett for the past six years, died Tuesday (Jan. 22, 2008) in Sena-Kean Manor after a brief stay. The Cummings Funeral Home Inc. in Mount Jewett is in charge of arrangements.

Market Slides/ Then Closes Up 300 points

The market slid down 300 points today and then recovered and gained 300 more points in the last hour of trading today, proving once again that there is no common sense to what the market does.

Police Reports Via WFRM News

State police locally overnight released details about a car/deer crash on the Phoenix Run Road in Hector Township Sunday night. Bobbie Smith of Westfield escaped injury when she swerved her 2000 Chrysler to avoid a deer which bounded into her path. The sedan went off the road and struck a culvert before coming to rest.

The theft of a car in Smethport Tuesday night is being investigated by borough and state police. The red 1995 Corsica has spray paint on its front and a clown sticker on the back. Apparently the owner had left the keys in the car.

State police here are probing a scattering of rubbish incident on Route 49 East in Allegany Township Saturday. Sometime between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. unknown persons left five bags of trash along a private drive at the Nancy Long residence.

James Mink of Coudersport escaped injury at around 11:00 when his 2005 Chevy Truck wrecked on the Long Road in Allegany Township. Troopers said the truck slid out of control while approaching a sharp 90 degree downhill curve near the intersection with the North Hollow Road…skidded off the road and struck a telephone pole.

Tionesta CEO Enters Congressional Race

WESB News: 01/23/08 - One More Enters Race for Congress

Add one more name to the list of candidates running for the 5th District Congressional seat currently held by Representative John Peterson, who is retiring.

Richard Schall of Tionesta has announced that he's running as a Republican.

Schall has served as C-E-O of Forest County Wood Products for more than 30 years, and is chairman of the Forest County Industrial Development Authority.

Clearfield Commissioner To Run For Congress

From the DuBois Courier Express

CLEARFIELD - Clearfield County Commissioner Mark B. McCracken has thrown his hat in the ring for the 5th Congressional District seat to be vacated by retiring U.S. Rep. John Peterson. He will be seeking the Democratic nomination.

McCracken's announcement brings the number of candidates for the position to 11.

McCracken, 44, a Clearfield resident, is a lifelong resident of Clearfield County. He is currently serving his second term as Clearfield County Commissioner. Prior to being elected county commissioner, he served 10 years on the Clearfield Area School District Board of Directors.

Before entering politics, McCracken worked in the computer and information technology field from 1983-88 with North American Refractories Engineering Department in Curwensville and served as director of information technology for Clearfield County government from 1988-2004.
"I believe I have the experience necessary to serve this vast rural district in north central Pennsylvania," McCracken said. "As county commissioner, everyday I deal directly with important issues facing all counties in the district including economic development and job creation, balancing budgets, controlling health care costs and dealing with constituent issues. I also work on a regular basis with officials from all levels of government including the state and federal."

McCracken is a member of the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission Board of Directors, Clearfield County Recreation and Tourism Authority Board of Directors Central Pennsylvania Community Action Board of Directors, County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania Executive Board and Technology Committee chairman, Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging Board of Directors and Penn-Ag Democrats Executive Board.
McCracken also serves as chairman of the Northern Counties Heath Insurance Purchasing Cooperative Board. McCracken said this board was organized in 2005 through his efforts working with commissioners in Clinton and McKean counties to form a multi-county health insurance purchasing co-op and create a self-insured pool account. He said participation in the co-op is up to nine county governments and member counties are bringing health insurance costs under control which is saving tax dollars.

Commenting on what he feels is the biggest problem confronting the nation, McCracken said, "The problem Congress must confront is the growing financial crisis and stalled economy. The federal government's debt is at an all time high, big-name banking institutions are on the verge of default and are being bailed out by China, Saudi Arabia and other foreign interests. My greatest fear is that the security of our nation won't be breached by terrorism but through economic and financial collapse brought on by the uncontrolled debt of the federal government.
"It is time that the president and members of Congress, regardless party affiliation, start showing fiscal responsibility by balancing the federal budget and paying down the national debt," he said. "This will make us stronger, more secure and allow us to address important domestic issues like health care, tax reform and keeping social security solvent."

On issues specific to the 5th district, McCracken said he opposed the tolling of Interstate 80. "I oppose the tolling of Interstate 80 and as a county commissioner have been very active working in opposition to tolling," he said. "I have a strong record in opposition of landfill development and the import of out of state trash to the region. I fully support the rights guaranteed to law abiding citizens by the Second Amendment."

McCracken said this will be a tough battle for a Democratic candidate to win. "As a lifelong resident of the region, I know the political layout of the 5th district and the north central region. I trust that voters from all parties will look closely at the candidates and will elect the person to best represent them in Washington. The one belief that I hold firm is to remember who put me in office and who I work for," he said. "It's not the lobbyists, the party leaders, the big money contributors or the special interests. My commitment is, and will always be, to the individual voters and citizens that elect me."

McCracken lives in the Clearfield area with his wife Kelly and daughter Amanda.
"My wife Kelly and I both work full time jobs in order to make ends meet," he said. "Like the majority of people living in the 5th district we struggle to pay our mortgage, car payments, utility bills, child care expenses, rising gas prices, heating costs and to put food on the table. Unlike others already in this race, I know firsthand the problems that working families face everyday, and Washington isn't helping us."

Two others will be seeking the Democratic nomination, Lock Haven Mayor Richard Vilello is expected to face Iraq war veteran Bill Cahir.

The Republican contenders include Clearfield County businessman Derek Walker, former Centre County Commissioner Chris Exarchos (ek-ZAR'-kos), Centre County businessman Matt Shaner, Clarion Mayor John Stroup, Elk County Coroner Lou Radkowski, Centre County Republican Party Chairman Glenn Thompson and Lycoming County businessman Jeff Stroehmann.
Donald Wilson is running on the Green Party ticket.

Governor Rendell Endorses Hillary Clinton

WESB News: 01/23/08 - Governor Rendell Endorses Hillary Clinton

Gov. Ed Rendell says he is backing Hillary Clinton for president, a key endorsement in a delegate-rich state that could be critical if the race remains unresolved after Super Tuesday.

Rendell says he likes Clinton's health care plans and thinks she has developed well as a senator. A formal announcement is planned for an event later today in Philadelphia with Mayor Michael Nutter, who earlier had endorsed Clinton. Pennsylvania's primary is April 22.

Rendell's ties to the Clintons include having served in 2000 as general chairman of the Democratic National Committee, a position made possible by then-President Bill Clinton. Sen. Clinton endorsed Rendell's re-election at a June 2006 "Women for Rendell" event near Philadelphia.

Bellefonte Bans Outdoor Furnaces

By Gail Franklin For the Centre Daily Times

BELLEFONTE — The Borough Council on Monday decided to ban outdoor furnaces.

External fuel burning devices are no longer permitted within the borough under an ordinance approved unanimously by the council. The new law allows any existing furnaces to remain under a grandfather clause but includes a $300 fine or 90 days in jail for any future structures.

External fuel burning devices are self-contained furnaces located outside of a home used to slow-burn wood or other fuel to heat water that is pumped into a residence for heat.

“There’s definitely some concerns about air quality given the nature of our community,” said Borough Manager Ralph Stewart. “A smokestack could be level with a neighbor’s house because of all the hills and we’re trying to provide as good air quality as we can.”

There is only one known furnace in the borough, but the Planning Commission began to investigate them last year when it received two requests to install the devices.

Bellefonte joins several other Pennsylvania municipalities that have banned them for health and safety reasons.

Child Molester Gets 7 To 15 Years

WESB News: 01/23/08 - Michael Batcha Sentenced to State Prison

A Custer City man has been sentenced to 7 to 15 years in state prison for sexually assaulting seven children between the ages of 10 And 12 over a course of 15 years.

52 year-old Michael Batcha also received 20 years of probation following his prison term for actions which happened between 1992 and 2007.

The court found Batcha to be a sexually violent predator and subject to the Megan’s Law guidlines for the rest of his life.

Up To $650. Rebate On Taxes If You Are Eligible

Rep. Martin Causer is advising area residents that applications for the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program for 2007 are now available in his Coudersport and Bradford offices.

Eligible participants can receive a rebate of up to $650 based on their rent or property taxes paid last year. Income eligibility requirements apply.

The lawmaker reminds everyone who applies to provide all necessary income, property tax or rental information required to process claims quickly and accurately.

For more information call his office at 274-9769 or 362-4400.

Forms can be downloaded at http://www.RepCauser.com. From WFRM News

Potter County Offices Won't Move Until Spring

While some Potter County offices have moved into the Gunsburger Annex, formerly the Adelphia gym, it will likely be spring before the “big move” takes place according to the new board of commissioners.

During the January 17^th meeting, commissioner Susan Kefover told WFRM that the board is waiting for the completion of a study by LaBella and Associates which looking at the space needs of each department in comparison to what is available.

The study will take at least six weeks to be completed.

Chairman Doug Morley added that officials want to have an orderly move without compromising county services so a lot of planning will be done before anything is transferred to the building.

The Probation Department, Public Defender, and Register of Wills/Recorder of Deeds have already moved into the annex. From WFRM News.

I-80 Closed As 3 Tractor-Trailers Crash

I-80 was closed for a time today between the on and off ramps at the Corsica Interchange when three tractor trailers crashed.

Traffic was directed off the off ramp and back on the on ramp.

A quick snowstorm with temperatures near the freezing mark made Central Pennsylvania roads a skating rink today until crews were able to get out and apply antiskid materials.

Shooter Takes Out 911 Center Radios

A shooter knocked out radio service to the Clearfield and Jefferson county's 9-1-1 center.

State Police say someone shot a microwave dish in Clearfield county sometime between January 17th and 21st.

The suspect shot a Clover Run tower microwave dish and radio tower cable. Police say it disrupted radio service to parts of Clearfield and Jefferson counties.

Viet Nam Wall Coming To Area In May

WESB News: 01/22/08 - 'Moving Wall' Coming to Wellsville, NY

The Vietnam Moving Wall is coming back to the region.

On May 7, the half-size replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. will arrive in Wellsville.

The names of several area soliders are listed on the wall.

They include Daniel Cappello of Kane; John Godfrey of Olean; Arnold Robbins of Salamanca; and Edwin Tubbs of Coudersport.

Mardi Gras Party To Benefit Habitat For Humanity

It's mighty chilly outside, but down in New Orleans they're fixing to warm up with the Mardi Gras.

Can't make it to New Orleans? Not to worry......

The Potter county fine arts council is bringing a bit of New Orleans to Potter County on Friday, February 8th, as they host a Mardi Gras Party to benefit Habitat For Humanity at the Coudersport Golf Club at 7:00pm.

There's live music, and a New Orleans style dinner including Chicken/Sausage Gumbo, mini crab cakes, jambalaya (sp.) red beans and rice, cajun cat fish, King cake, and more. Brother Deitz will bring his Dixie Boys in for some Dixieland, I'll be laying some New Orleans style blues on you and Anne Acker will be mixing up a whole Jambalaya of songs for your listening pleasure, so bring out the beads and feathers, this ought to be a wild one!

Tickets are $20, and includes dinner and the show, and must be purchased or reserved ahead of time, only reserve tickets will be available at the door.

Tickets may be purchased at the Potter County Ed Council and The 2nd Street Roost, or you may reserve your tickets to be held at the Golf Club, by phoning Mitch at 814-698-2799 or by responding to this email. details below:

Event: MARDI GRAS PARTY
Venue: Coudersport Golf Club http://www.coudersportgolfclub.com
To Benefit: Habitat For Humanity
Hosted by: PCFAC
Tickets: $20 includes live music and dinner, reserve or pre-purchase only
Reserve tickets: phone 814-698-2799, or email steve@stevequelet.com
Advance tickets: PCEC, or 2nd Street Roost

Market Didn't Drop As Expected

The Dow closed down a little over 100 points for the day after hemoraging 400 points at the start of trading today.

Investors had expected a tremendous slide today when the market opened, but in true stock market form, it unexpectedly rebounded to everyone's surprise.

International markets had slipped yesterday to record levels on expectation of a recession in the United States.

The fed cut the interest rates to banks by 3/4 of a percent in an effort to prop up the sagging economy.

President Bush is also pushing for tax cuts to stimulate the economy.

Winterfest Saturday--Snow or No Snow

New Snow Makes Roads Extremely Slippery

The inch of new snow this morning contributed to several auto accidents in the Potter County area. Besides the crashes previously reported, there was a report of a crash on RT. 44 and a report of wires down from a crash in Allegany Township. Shinglehouse has just dispatched for traffic control for a crash 1 mile south of Bells Run on State Route 44.

Motorists should be very cautious until road crews are able to get all these roads salted and sanded.

Car On Roof Near Erways Farm

BREAKING NEWS:
Coudersport Emergency crews have just been sent to a report of a car on its roof near Erway's farm on State Route 6 at noon.
UPDATE:
WESB News: 01/23/08 - Eldred Woman Hurt in One Car Crash An Eldred woman was injured in a one vehicle accident late Tuesday morning on Route 6 in Eulalia Township in Potter County.

State Police say 42 year-old Kimberly Miller lost control of her car, hit an embankment and rolled onto it’s side.

Miller was taken to Charles Cole Memorial Hospital for treatment of unknown injuries.

Three Vehicle Crash In Harrison Valley

BREAKING NEWS:

A three vehicle crash has been reported at the Dandy Mart in Harrison Valley. No further information is available at this time.

Business owner throws hat in ring

5TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT: Seven seeking Republican nomination; two drop out
By Mike Joseph

Jeff Stroehmann, the great-great grandson of the founder of Stroehmann Bakeries, said Monday he will run for the Republican nomination for the 5th Congressional District seat. Read more in this article from the Centre Daily Times Online.

Area Obituaries

ROULETTE— Timothy L. Fillhart Sr., 46, of 47 River St., died unexpectedly Monday (Jan. 21, 2008) in the Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport, after an apparent heart attack. The Switzer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

TUCSON, Ariz. - Thomas V. Slavin, 84, of Tucson passed away Thursday (Jan. 17. 2008).

EMPORIUM — Mildred M. “Millie” Griffith, 87, of 315 E. Fourth St., died Monday night (Jan. 21, 2008) at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport. Barnett Funeral Home Inc. is in charge of arrangements.

SMETHPORT — Anna Belle Murphy, 65, of Smethport, died Tuesday (Jan. 22, 2008) in the Bradford Regional Medical Center, Bradford. Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc. is in charge of arrangements.

Wellsville Man Jailed After Stabbing

WESB News: 01/21/08 - Wellsville Man Charged After Stabbing

A Wellsville man is accused of stabbing another man early Saturday morning.

Police say 25-year-old Larry Baker stabbed Vincent Sands with a knife.

Baker also allegedly hit his wife three times, cutting her lip.

Baker was charged with assault and criminal possession of a weapon. He was sent to Allegany County Jail in lieu of 500 dollars bail.

Up To No Good On Creekside Drive In Roulette

Troopers are seeking information in connection to a criminal mischief taking place at about 2:30 a.m. Sunday on Creekside Drive in Roulette.

Natasha Miles told authorities she was awakened when she her a car door slam. She looked outside and saw what appeared to be a lighter flame inside her car.

She observed one person inside and two outside her car and when questioned them, the three males took off on foot.

They were all wearing dark clothes and stood about 5’ 6”. Anyone with information about the suspects or the incident is asked to call the local barracks at 274-8690. From WFRM

Man Steals Siding From Trailer

Adam Sykora,of Mills has been committed to the Potter County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail after being arraigned before District Judge Delores Bristol on charges of theft and criminal mischief.

State police allege earlier this month, Sykora removed 200 pounds of aluminum siding from a trailer on Whitman Road in Harrison Township causing $4,000 in damage.

The camp is owned by Walter Wroblewski of Hatfield, PA

From WFRM News.

Selinsgrove Man Charged In Hit And Run

From WFRM:

Various summary traffic violations have been filed against 32 year old Ross Stephens of Selinsgrove following a hit and run taking place late last Thursday night on the Paul Hollow Road in West Branch Township.

Authorities claim a Dodge Ram driven by Stephens failed to negotiate a left hand turn, traveled off the road, struck an embankment and became airborne for about 50 feet before hitting a tree on property owned by Jeffrey McCrabb.

The truck continued in a northerly direction on the McCrabb property; struck a fence several times, then turned westward, traveled around McCrabb’s house and garage and continued through his yard before entering a wooded area where it came to rest against a tree.

Stephens allegedly left the scene on foot was later located later at a camp on Schaar road. His passenger, Michael Latsha walked to the McCrabb residence. Both suffered minor injuries in the crash.

RT. 6 Closed When Car its Gas Main

WFRM Reports

Route 6, a mile north of Route 287 in Delmar Township, Tioga County was closed to traffic for awhile late Saturday night following a one-vehicle crash.

Troopers said Jennifer Hoyles of Galeton was headed west when her car went out of control while negotiating a left hand curve, slid off the road and hit a gas main.

Both Hoyles and her husband, Robert, escaped injury and apparently there was no fire or explosion either

Near Head-on Crash Injures Three

WFRM Reports:

A near head-on crash at about 10:30 Friday morning on the West Branch of Fishing Creek in Clara Township, north of Roulette sent three people to Charles Cole hospital for treatment of their injuries.

State police said the collision occurred when Tonya Finster of West Branch Fishing Creek applied the brakes to her southbound Ford Escort Station Wagon as she approached a northbound Chevy Trailblazers driven by Catherine Snyder of Coudersport.

The compact slid on the icy road into the path of the SUV, then bounced of the east side of the road down a seven foot embankment into a small creek where it came to rest.

Finster and her passenger, Amber Moritz, also of West Branch Fishing Creek suffered moderate injuries while Snyder received minor injuries.

All were wearing seatbelts and were taken by ambulance to Charles Cole Hospital.

PA Jobs Up--But So Is Unemployment

Pennsylvania residents received mixed news Thursday.

On one hand, the state added 2,800 jobs in December.

And while the unemployment rate rose to 4.7 percent, it's still below the nation's rate of 5 percent.

Potter County's rate in Nov. 2007 is 5.6%

Three Injured In Fishing Creek Crash

WESB News: 01/21/08 - Three Treated After Crash in Potter County

Two people were sent to area hospitals after a two vehicle accident on West Branch Fishing Creek Road in Clara Township.

State Police say a car driven by 47 year-old Tonya Finster of Roulette slid into the path of an SUV driven by 56 year-old Catherine Snyder of Coudersport.

Finster and a passenger in her car were taken to the hospital with moderate injuries.

Synder was treated too, but for minor injuries.

BRRRRRRRRRRRR

WESB News: 01/21/08 - Coldest Weather of the Season

The coldest temperatures of the winter are gripping the twin tiers .

It felt like 30 below zero overnight in may parts of the twin tiers over night.

Some sections of Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties are reporting up to 20 inches of snow.

There's Smoke In The Hills

Bellefonte May Ban Outside Wood Boilers

Bellefonte, PA, was reported to be considering banning outside wood boilers this week. Council said there are only a few in the boro but they want to anticipate problems in advance. A local newspaper stated that the planning commission had looked into regulating them, but council is inclined instead to ban them entirely. Read more.

Reduced For Quick Sale

9 Acre Farm For Sale In Roulette Township, $119.000./Reduced To $94,000.

Check out this 9 acre farm right on Main Street in Roulette, PA. Lots of room for horses or your choice of farm animals. Two barns, with horse stalls, blacktop driveway, new 200 amp electric, new plumbing, new roof, new forced air furnace, large lot for parking. Great retirement community priced at less than half the price of an apartment in the city. Located in Potter County, God's Country. Roulette has a population of 1500. Click on the title to go to the realtor's complete listing of this property.

Area Obituaries

SHINGLEHOUSE, Pa. - Lyle M. Bennett, formerly of 2591 11 Mile Road, most recently of Bradford Manor, passed away Friday (Jan. 18, 2008) at the Bradford Regional Medical Center in Bradford.

PORT ALLEGANY — Michael F. “Mickey” Lambert, 58, of Port Allegany, formerly of Coudersport, died Wednesday (Jan. 16, 2008) in Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport. Arrangements are under the direction of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home in Shinglehouse.

Victory Is Sweet For Ulysses Man

By Christine V. Sulat
csulat@stargazette.com
Star-Gazette

Larry Hamilton of Ulysses got "the best birthday present I could have gotten" this year.

Hamilton, who with his wife, Phyllis, owns Hamilton's Maple Products in Ulysses, was named "Premier Exhibitor" in the maple syrup contest at the Pennsylvania Farm Show.

That's the top prize, and it's the third time the Hamiltons have won it.

"It's the coveted award we all go down and compete for," said Larry Hamilton, who won Premier Exhibitor in 1998 and 2002.

His business also won best syrup of show at the Farm Show in 1998 and 2006.

"Wining the Premier Exhibitor title is even better than the monetary prize," said Hamilton, a 20-year veteran of the Farm Show competition. "It's such a great honor."

Hamilton, a fifth-generation maple syrup producer, is starting his fourth year as president of the Pennsylvania Maple Producers' Council, one of five maple syrup associations across the state.

Hamilton's birthday was Jan. 6, just days before he was named Premier Exhibitor.

"It was the ultimate gift," he said.

Contestants must enter a minimum of six classes in 14 categories to contend for Premier Exhibitor honors.

Points are given for each placing, then weighed out at the end of the show.

Those with the most points can win cash prizes from $8 to $212, according to the Farm Show.

"We go down to the Farm Show to set the bar high," Hamilton said. "I guess we did that this year."

To read the rest of this story in the Star Gazette.

Eleven Running For Peterson Seat In Congress

From the DuBois Courier Express

Less than a week after area state legislators said they weren't interested in running for retiring U.S. Rep. John Peterson's seat in Congress, a slew of candidates have emerged.

As of Friday, 11 candidates have declared their candidacy for the 5th Congressional District seat which Peterson will vacate at the end of his term this year. The candidates range from a 25-year-old maintenance worker to a longtime funeral director.

The latest among those candidates to announce their intentions are Elk County Coroner Lou Radkowski, who owns and operates a funeral home in St. Marys, Clarion Mayor John Stroup, Clearfield businessman Derek Walker and Glenn "G.T." Thompson Jr., chairman of the Republican Party in Centre County. All four are seeking the Republican nomination.

Those four join four others in a crowded GOP field so far that includes former Centre County Commissioner Chris Exarchos, Centre County businessman Matt Shaner, College Township (Centre County) Councilman John Klees and Craig Lucas of Union Township near Bellefonte in Centre County, who recently graduated from the Pennsylvania State University and has been doing maintenance work at an apartment complex.

Two candidates are seeking the Democratic nomination, Iraq war veteran Bill Cahir, who recently resigned as an Express-Times of Easton correspondent and plans to move to Bellefonte, and Lock Haven Mayor Richard Vilello.

A third-party candidate has emerged as well in Donald Wilson of Philipsburg who plans to run on the Green Party ticket.

The sudden interest in the position didn't surprise Peterson, who announced his plans to retire Jan. 3.

"I knew that once all the senators and representative said they weren't interested, we'd get some new people. That's good. The people will get some choices," Peterson said.
Peterson did say he was surprised that none of the area state legislators were interested in running.

"I thought one or two of them might, so it was a surprise," he said.
Peterson acknowledged that the size of the district could have played a role for some.
"This is a very intense job and a very big district," he said.

The district includes all or parts of 17 rural counties in northwest and central Pennsylvania, stretching from as far west as Crawford County to as far east as Lycoming County. Peterson said the district may get even bigger the next time it is reapportioned after the 2010 census.
As for his plans, Peterson gave no indication of being a "lame duck" in his final year.

"We're not going to coast our final year," he said. "We're going out with a blaze. We'll be as outspoken as ever."

Some of the issues Peterson said he will continue to push for is the opposition to tolling Interstate 80, affordable energy for America and rural health care.

Candidates for Peterson's seat, and other offices up for election this year, can begin to circulate nominating petitions Tuesday and have until Feb. 12 to do so.

Coudersport's Zito Media To Build Fiber Optic Loop

From the DuBois Courier Express

KANE - Big city technology will soon be available in a rural area.

A fiber optic telecommunication redundant infrastructure that will soon be put in place will increase the capabilities of businesses, hospitals and schools in Kane, McKean County.

For a little more than a year, elected officials in McKean, Warren and Erie counties, as well as economic development agencies and businesses, have been working to bring fiber optic transport to the region, according to Steve Zwerin, regional next generation telecommunications consultant.

The availability of an advanced fiber optical telecommunication redundant infrastructure to Kane will enable companies to expand and provide incredible Internet speed and digital telephone services and high speed data connections.

Zwerin said it will provide Internet speeds tens of thousands of times faster than standard DSL or cable based Internet services. He said it's something that at this point can only be found in major cities.

It will enable existing companies and future companies to expand and allow new companies to move to the region. He said just as water, sewage and highways are needed, this advanced technology is part of the infrastructure today's companies need.

Towns with the railroad running through them 135 years ago were the ones that prospered. In the 1950s it was the interstate and in the 21st century it's telecommunication abilities, Zwerin said.

He said there was a need to educate and convince leaders of the need to bring this technology to the region. It wasn't something businesses in the region, he said, could afford to do on their own and a corporation isn't going to build this type of infrastructure unless there is a guarantee of increased revenue.

The Kane Community Hospital, the Kane Area School District, local small businesses, as well as elected officials, all worked together to get enough contracts in place with Zito Media. The contracts provided enough revenue that Zito agreed to build the infrastructure in the region.
"We are excited to provide Kane with this next-generation solution," James Rigas, president of Zito Media in a Kane Area Development Center, said in a press release.

"In addition to Kane, this will enable us to complete a regional optical system that will allow carrier class commercial products and services to be delivered to businesses in St. Marys, Ridgway and Johnsonburg."

There will also be fiber optic strands in place that will be available for municipal/government use, the release said.

McKean County is the first county to trigger a series of events that will hopefully eventually lead to the expansion of capabilities in Johnsonburg, Ridgway, St. Marys, Brockway and DuBois, Zwerin said. This will be the first redundant optical in the region.

An optical ring is similar to a hula hoop. A laser light goes around the ring.
Traditionally, if a copper wire is damaged by a tree or something else, service would be interrupted. This is not what happens with optical ring. He said if there is damage to the ring, the light will travel around it and service will not be interrupted.

It will provide ultra high speed connections. For instance, with a typical system, it would take one to two hours to download a cat scan from one hospital to another; with this type of system, it would take 20 seconds.

When it is completed, Kane Hospital will have the most advance telecommunication network in the northern tier of any hospital, Zwerin said.

Optical fiber will be provided to all seven hospitals associated with Kane Community Hospitals.
Zwerin said the hospitals will be able to pull up radiological records at speeds unavailable today. "It will be revolutionary for the northern tier," Zwerin said.

"New technologies, such as real-time beating heart image transmissions, live emergency room patient telemetry with high resolution video monitoring and consultations will enable remote medical specialists at advanced trauma facilities such as Hamot to assist our doctors in providing team expert medical evaluations of our patients," Gary Rhodes, chief executive officer of Kane Community Hospital, said.

Zwerin said the costs to businesses will probably be less than what they pay today. The goal is to make it affordable for all businesses not just large ones.

The technology is expected to be in place in April or May.

Those in Kane won't actually see this infrastructure since it will be underground.

Port Allegany Man Injured In Rt. 15 Crash

The victim in a tractor-trailer crash early Friday morning that resulted in an oil spill on Route 15 just south of Trout Run has been identified.

State police said Elisha M. Campbell, 59, of Port Allegany was the driver of a 1996 Peterbilt tractor trailer that overturned at about 12:30 a.m. on the highway.

According to a police report, Campbell was traveling southbound on Route 15 in the left lane and was passing another vehicle when he lost control of his truck on the snow-covered road in Lewis Township.

Police said his truck struck a guiderail on the east berm and overturned, traveling down an embankment before coming to rest in the northbound lanes of the highway on the driver’s side, with the cab facing south and the trailer separated, spilling heating and motor oils.

Campbell was taken by ambulance to Williamsport Hospital, where officials said he was treated for his injuries and released.

Only about 50 gallons of the motor oil spilled, forcing a cleanup that closed down both northbound lanes of the highway for a time. One lane was reopened by 1 p.m., while cleanup continued.

Soil contaminated by the oil was removed from the crash site. From the Sun Gazette

17 Year Old Busted On Brooklynside

WESB News: 01/20/08 - Juvenile Faces DUI and Drug Charges

A 17 year old juvenile from Port Allegany was stopped on Brooklynside Road in Liberty Township for a summary traffic violation by Pennsylvania State Police.

Upon investigation by troopers, the juvenile was discovered to be DUI, and also in posession of a pipe and marijuana.

Charges will be filed in district court, the name of the juvenile was not released due to his age.