Saturday, September 12, 2009

Tina M. Stickles, 51, Deferiet, NY, Formerly Port Allegany, PA

DEFERIET, N.Y. — Tina M. Stickles, 51, of 34138 NYS Route 3, died Wednesday evening at Carthage Area Hospital under the care of her family following a brief illness.

Born May 3, 1958, in Carthage, the daughter of Richard F. and Rose Knapp MacCue, she attended schools in Carthage and graduated from Port Allegany High School in Pennsylvania.

A marriage to Bill Stickles ended in divorce.

She was employed by Bill Lake Realty and the Pittsburgh-Corning Corporation for several years in Port Allegany, before moving back to New York, where she worked with the former Long Falls Realty, Carthage, and Thousand Islands Realty in Clayton. She also worked at her mother’s diner, the Golden Unicorn, in Great Bend.

She enjoyed singing karaoke, and was a member of the Jefferson-Lewis Board of Realtors.

Surviving are her mother, Rose MacCue, Deferiet; a daughter and her husband, Kristen and Michael Kellogg, High Point, North Carolina; a daughter, Randi Stickles, Orlando, Fla.; her fiancée, Marvin Koenig and her longtime companion; her dog, Kibbles; a sister and her husband, Laurie and Otis Richardson, Felts Mills; and a brother and his wife, Richard & Angela MacCue, Jr., Great Bend.

Calling hours will be held 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Bossuot-Lundy Funeral Home Inc., 500 State St., Carthage. A funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, in the chapel of the funeral home with The Deacon Richard J. Staab officiating.

An additional funeral service and her burial will be held in Port Allegany at a later date.

Coudy Falcons Volleyball Team Takes First Place

“Congratulations Coudersport Falcon Volleyball Team for taking
1st place in the Williamson Tournament” on Saturday.

Unstoppable Movie Filmed In Olean, Portville Areas

Movie magic

By Kate Day Sager
Olean Times Herald

PORTVILLE - One group of neighbors stood in the front yard of a home on Maple Avenue in Portville Friday afternoon and watched as film crews from the movie “Unstoppable” did numerous takes of a train running through the community.

The 20th Century Fox film, which stars Denzel Washington, depicts a runaway train carrying a toxic load of chemicals toward a community. Film crews have been in the area for the past week filming scenes in Port Allegany, Eldred and Kane in Pennsylvania, and Olean and Portville in New York. They are expected to continue today in northwestern Pennsylvania. More...

Minor MVA Reported In Eldred Township

Traffic Control
Station 18 Fire Police have been toned out to provide traffic control for a minor MVA between the Barnum Road and the Windfall Road in Eldred Township at 10:30 Saturday night.

And You Thought You Had A Good Deal!!!!--Marcellus Shale Coalition Hits The Jackpot

Fortuna Energy agrees to pay $165 million for gas rights; 600 members of coalition to receive $5,500 per acre, plus 20% royalties

By George Basler • gbasler@gannett.com
Star Gazette

CHOCONUT, Pa. -- A Horseheads-based company is willing to pay a collective $165 million for the rights to drill for

natural gas in about 30,000 acres of the Marcellus Shale.

Fortuna Energy Inc. has closed a deal with The Friendsville Group, a coalition of about 600 property owners, to lease all of the group's acreage in Susquehanna and Bradford counties in Pennsylvania, as well as its land in Broome County, officials with the coalition said Saturday.Under the agreement, Fortuna Energy will pay all of the property owners in the coalition $5,500 an acre for a five-year lease on their property, with a company option to extend the lease for another three years. The company will also pay 20 percent royalties for producing wells. More....

Rev. James (Jim) P. Loucks, 67, of Somerset Dr. in Albany, GA, Formerly Shinglehouse, PA

James P. Loucks
ALBANY - Rev. James (Jim) P. Loucks, 67, of Somerset Dr. in Albany died August 31, 2009 at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital.

Funeral services will be Thursday 10 AM at Poplar Arbor Congregational Church in Sale City, GA. Rev. David Wood,officiating. Interment will be 4 PM at Pine Grove Church Cemetery in Alma, GA.

A native of Shinglehouse, PA, Rev. Loucks has lived in Albany 27 years where he served as a full-time minister and evangelist in South Georgia for 18 years and was retired from Georgia Department of Corrections. Rev. Loucks was a graduate of Norman Park Seminary. Rev. Loucks will always be remembered for his love of family and preaching the gospel.

Survivors include his wife, N. Jean Loucks of Albany, son, James P. Loucks, Jr. and his wife Debra of Venice, CA, daughter, Michelle Loucks of Anaheim, CA, step-son, Brian W. Granberry and his wife Lisa of Leesburg, step-daughter, R. Michelle Buckley of Albany, grandchildren, Rebekah Jean Granberry, Cailee Granberry and Brandon Couch, brother, David Jones of Denver, CO, several aunts and cousins.

The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Kimbrell-Stern.

Those desiring, please make memorials to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 1201, Albany, GA 31702.

You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts with the family of Rev. Loucks by visiting Kimbrell-Stern's website at www.kimbrellstern.com.

Kimbrell-Stern Funeral Directors

Albany 229/883-4152

6,000 Acres, 75 Miles Of Off Road Vehicle Trails

Rock Run Recreation Area to garner national attention this weekend
Saturday, September 12, 2009
The Progress News-Clearfield, PA
By Wendy B. Lynn Staff Writer

PATTON - It may be the best-kept secret in two counties. It's 6,000 acres and currently 75 miles of backwoods trails criss-crossing Clearfield and Cambria counties, and it is expanding all the time. This weekend the "secret" is going to receive national attention when 3,500 to 5,000 all-terrain enthusiasts descend on Patton and the surrounding area.

What is "it?" Rock Run Recreation Area, a park for off-road motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes and before long Jeeps, horses and hiking as well.

Nestled in the valleys and deep in the woods of the two counties, Rock Run Recreation is the biggest park of its kind in the northeast and bills itself as the premier ATV park east of the Mississippi. More...

Only Minor Injury In Rt. 46 Roll Over-Crash On Friday

Rt. 46 Crash
A Smethport man sustained only a minor injury, according to Kane based State Police, when he lost control and rolled his 1990 Buick Park Avenue on Route 46 Friday at 5:10 PM.

John W. Tanner, 18, Smethport, PA, was treated at Bradford Hospital for a minor injury. Troopers said Tanner was wearing his seat belt. He will be cited for Driving on Roadways Laned For Traffic.

State Police were assisted on scene by Otto -Eldred Regional Police Department.

Mary Ann Maley, 77, of 575 Parkside Drive, Limestone, NY

Mary Ann Maley, 77, of 575 Parkside Drive, Limestone, NY, passed away Saturday, September 12th, 2009 at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.

Born July 29, 1932, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Mervin H. and Mary Ann (Quinn) Yohe.

On July 25, 1953 in Bradford she married Harold "Ben" L. Maley who survives.

Mrs. Maley was a 1950 graduate of Bradford High School and a 1952 graduate of the Bradford Hospital's School of Nursing. She worked as a private duty nurse, an emergency room nurse at the Bradford Hospital as well as a "neighborhood nurse".

She served on the Limestone Central School's Board of Education in the late 70's. She was a member of St. Patrick's Church.

In addition to her husband she is survived by five sons, Harold "Bub" (Lisa) Maley of York, Greg (Char) Maley, Dennis (Leasa) Maley, and Joe (Tracy) Maley all of Limestone, NY, and Steven (Linda) Maley of Bradford, two sisters, Marie Speedy, and Myra (Martin) Peterson both of Bradford, and two brothers, John "Jack" (the late Shirley) Yohe, and Thomas (Susan) Yohe all of Bradford, 11 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Susan E. Higgins who died, January 11, 2009, a grandson Jeffrey Craig Higgins who died November 18, 1998, four brothers, Robert Yohe, Clair Yohe, Gerald "Jugg" Yohe, and an infant brother Mervin G. Yohe,

Family will be receiving friends on Friday, September 18, 2009 from 5:00 to 7:00PM in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc., East Main Street at which time a Memorial Service will be held with Rev. Leo J. Gallina, pastor of St. Bernard Church officiating.

Burial will be in St. Patrick Cemetery.

Memorials, if desired may be made to the Limestone Volunteer Fire Department or the charity of the donor's choice.

On line condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Harry L. Greek, 72, Limestone, NY

Harry L. Greek, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, 72, of 5341 Nichols Run, Limestone, NY, passed away Friday, September 11th, 2009 at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie, surrounded by his loving family.

Born October 16, 1936, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Alvia L. and Edna (Kline) Greek. On July 18, 1959 in Bradford he married Margaret "Marge" A. (Pinkerton) Greek who survives.

Mr. Greek attended Limestone High School. On May 10, 1955 he enlisted the United States Air Force and served at Sampson Air Force Base and also in Japan. He was honorably discharged November 18, 1958. While in the service he obtained his General Education Degree. He was self employed as a carpet installer for over 30 years.

He was a member of the Limestone American Legion Post #1560, a lifetime member of the Limestone Volunteer Fire Department, past president and member of the Limestone Booster Club, very active in the Limestone High School Alumni Association, a member of the Henry Renner Masonic Lodge in Limestone, and attended Limestone United Methodist Church. His favorite hobby was cooking, and he especially enjoyed preparing huge Sunday dinners for his family.

In addition to his wife of 50 years he is survived by two daughters: Harriet L. Pritchard, and DiAnne M. (Joe) Crowley all of Limestone, two sons: Tom G. (Marilyn) Greek of Olean, NY, and Harry L. (Linda) Greek of Salem, OR, two grandsons: Kyle A. Crowley and Kevin J. Crowley both of Limestone, twin brothers: Edward Greek of Bradford, and Edwin Greek of Rochester, NY. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and two brothers.

Family will be receiving friends Monday, September 14, 2009, from 2 to 4 & 6 to 8pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. South Ave. where funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 15th, at 11:00AM with Rev. Steven Crowell, pastor of Limestone Methodist Church officiating. Military Honors and committal services will follow in Limestone Cemetery.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to the DiVita Dialysis Center, East Main Street Bradford, PA 16701 or Limestone Volunteer Fire Department, Church Street, Limestone, NY 14753, or the charity of the donors choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Ambulance, Medic, Dispatched For ATV Crash Victim

ATV Accident
Medic 6 and Galeton Ambulance have been dispatched to the Forestry Office in Sweden Township for the victim of a ATV accident. Medic 6 is on scene.

Charlie & Jennifer Raptis Ending First Year As Restaurant Owners In Myrtle Beach

Prince Creek Diner Grew Up Fast

Myrtle Beach Restaurant News

By Becky Billingsley

Thursday, September 10, 2009, Murrells Inlet – Charlie and Jennifer Raptis are almost finished with their first year as restaurant owners, and they say the period has been a rewarding learning experience for their family of six.

They have learned the ins and outs of staff changes and adapted their menu once they figured out what customers like best. The two older of their four children are also learning the business. Seventeen-year-old James graduated from table bussing and now helps at the cash register, runs the fryer station on Fridays and is “Toast Boy during the Sunday morning slam.” Lucy, 11, busses tables and also runs the cash register on occasion.

Their parents have learned their customer base is comprised of hyper-locals who live in the immediate area, retirees from a generally local radius, and snow birds, whom the Raptises are eagerly anticipating greeting with warm welcomes when they soon return for the season. More...

Mary Kelley spotted this story and passed it on to us. Thanks Mary.

Tax Collector Gets 4 Months Jail Time For Taking $295,000.

Duke Center woman sentenced to jail time for stealing funds from wage tax accounts

By MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER
Era Reporter
marcie@bradfordera.com

A Duke Center woman was sentenced Friday in McKean County Court to serve time in jail for stealing funds from the wage tax accounts of Otto Township and Eldred Borough.

Sharon Littlefield, 62, of 451 Main St., was sentenced to 8 to 23 1/2 months of incarceration by President Judge John Yoder. The first four months of the sentence will be served in the McKean County Jail, while the second four months of the sentence will be served on house arrest, according to Interim District Attorney Christa Schott. More...

56th Stryker Brigade Soldiers Coming Home Sunday

National Guard soldiers set to make final leg home

By JOELLEN CHESNUT
Era Reporter
joellen@bradfordera.com

The Charlie Co. 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment, 56th Stryker Brigade soldiers are headed home.

Soldiers from the Ridgway and Bradford armories are expected home between noon and 4 p.m. Sunday. The soldiers will leave Fort Dix, N.J. — where they have been since Sept. 7 — at 7 a.m. Sunday and will travel to the new Bradford National Guard Family Readiness Center at Bradford Regional Airport. More...

Final Rabies Clinic Saturday At Shinglehouse Park

dogshots Potter County/Penn State Cooperative Extension has been sponsoring rabies clinics at sites throughout the county. Cost is $5.00 per animal. Dr. Ronnie Schenkein from Coudersport Animal Health Center administers the vaccine. She is assisted by 4-H members.

Final clinic of 2009 will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 1-4 pm at the Shinglehouse Community Park. Dogs, cats and ferrets that are at least 12 weeks old can be vaccinated against the rabies virus. A first-time shot is good for one year. Subsequent vaccinations are good for three years. All animals must be on a leash or in a container.

Is America Blessing God? Dr. Charles Stanley

Is America Blessing God?

As citizens of a democratic nation, we are blessed with many privileges. But along with those freedoms come accountability. We must live the kind of life that strengthens our country and helps preserve the "inalienable rights" given to us by our Creator. Click here to read an online article from Dr. Stanley which answers the question, "Is America Blessing God?"

Child Safety Seat Check Point Today In Coudersport

On Saturday, September 12th, Coudersport PSP will be holding a child safety seat check point in conjunction with the Coudersport Ambulance Association. The goal of the campaign is to increase the use of safety belts as well as Child Safety Seat use rates throughout the Commonwealth.

That Checkpoint will be held an September 12th from 10 am to 2 pm at the Coudersport Volunteer Ambulance station, located at 122 East Second Street, in Coudersport Boro. Please bring your child safety seat, vehicle manual, and child safety seat instructions. The check should take 20 to 30 minutes per seat. If you need directions, or can not make it to the check point, call 814-274-8690.

Local College Students To Open A Capella Show At Ohio Northern University

Rockapella to open season at Freed Center
The Ada Herald
Rockapella, the world-renowned contemporary a capella group, will perform at Ohio Northern University's Freed Center for the Performing Arts at 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26.

Rockapella is an original, five-man powerhouse of vocal talent. They blend soul, rock, rhythm and blues as one of the most accomplished contemporary a cappella groups in the world.

Since 2003, Rockapella has traveled across the country with their annual "A Rockapella Holiday" tour. They also have collaborated with the Boston Pops orchestra in sold-out venues throughout the US. The group is currently touring the globe and laying the foundation for their next recording.

Ohio Northern's own Northernaire ensemble will open the show.

Northernaire members include Molly Howard, a senior music education major from Coudersport, Pa.; Sydney Kuhlman, a senior communication arts major from Ada, Ohio; Virginia Harrod, a senior music education major from Fairfax, Va.; Brianna Bizzaro, a sophomore music education major from Port Allegany, Pa.; Eric Smith, a junior music performance major from Toledo, Ohio; Kyle Roby, a senior social studies major from Bluffton, Ohio; Michael Bizzaro, a senior music education major from Port Allegany, Pa.; and Tim Smith, a senior music education major from Westerville, Ohio. More...

Tree Down On Route 872 Near Austin

Tree Down
Austin Station 44 has been toned out for a tree in the roadway on Route 872 at 12:30 AM on Saturday.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Structure Fire Reported Off Route 46 On Holly Drive

Structure Fire Reported
Rew Station 8, Smethport Station 2, and Otto Township Station 9, and Priority ambulance have been dispatched to a structure fire on Holly Drive, off Route 46.
11:57 PM All units recalled on orders of Chief 8. This was found to be a controlled burn.

Can you find the Dragonfly In This Picture?

Dragonfly waiting for meal to fly by......

Photo by Reuben Gibson

Horse Shoe Tournament At Austin Fall Festival

Arboretum News

Connie Brown edgeing grass at the Arboretum.Connie helps to maintain the Arboretum.
Larry Gibble donated his time to paint the caboose at the Arboretum this summer.

Charlotte Alma Tronetti, 73, of Smethport, PA.

Smethport- Charlotte Alma Tronetti, 73, of Smethport, died Friday (September 11, 2009), at her home in Smethport.

She was born Sept. 6, 1936, in Smethport, a daughter of Patrick and Lillian Kinney Foley. On Oct. 25, 1958, in St. Elizabeth Church, Smethport, she married Robert J. Tronetti, Sr., who survives.

Mrs. Tronetti was a 1954 graduate of Smethport High School and was a Nurse Aide, employed by Stone’s Manor, Smethport, now Lakeview Senior Care and Living Center, for over 25 years before retiring.

She was a member of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, Smethport.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by
three sons: Kirk (Linda) Tronetti and Christopher Tronetti, both of Smethport, PA; Robert (Lora) Tronetti, Jr. of Gibsonia, PA
4 granddaughters, Lisa Foltz; Kirklyn Tronetti; Erica Tronetti; Hannah Tronetti; 1 grandson, Derek Tronetti.
one sister: Mary Johnson of Spartansburg, PA
one brother: Jim Foley of Tucson, AZ

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by 3 brothers and 1 sister.

Honoring Mrs. Tronetti’s wishes, visitation will be held privately with family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, Sept. 14, 2009, at 10:00 am from St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, Smethport, with the Rev. Vincent P. Cieslewicz, pastor, as Celebrant. Committal will be in the St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Smethport.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Hamlin Memorial Library, Smethport, or St. Elizabeth Church, Smethport. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

One Car MVA Reported On South Kendall Avenue

One Car MVA
Station 8 and Bradford ambulance were dispatched to a one car accident near 1490 South Kendall Avenue in Foster Township where 1 minor injury was reported from a car going into a ditch shortly before 9:00 pm on Friday nite.

Fezz's Car Show & Swap Meet Saturday At Sweden Valley

A couple of people have sent us posters of Fezz's Car Show and Swap Meet
at Sweden Valley, but no matter how we try, we can't get it to come out
readable when we post it. We tried..........

Recap Of Today's News From Gerri Miller.com

Now Available On Zito Media Cable Channel 450

Hear the local news first on Black Forest Broadcasting starting at 7:00am

Contact: gerrimiller@pennswoods.net

Copyright: 2008 G.R. Miller. All Rights Reserved.

DETAILS STILL MISSING REGARDING HUNT FOR ROULETTE MAN

Coudersport-based state police have yet to confirm they are looking for 27 year old Eric Lamont of Roulette.

According to unconfirmed reports, State police at Coudersport, Kane and Emporium and Port Allegany Borough Police began searching for Lamont when he took off on foot into a wooded area Tuesday night when troopers stopped his pick up truck.

JUVENILES CHARGED WITH THROWING ROCKS AT VEHICLES
Five juveniles from Westfield, Knoxville, and Elkland have been charged with criminal mischief in connection to incidents taking place in mid-August along Route 49 near the Westfield Area School.

Authorities claim the youths caused more than $4,000 in damage when they threw large rocks at four vehicles as they drove by. The vehicles are owned by Kenneth Schoonover, Christine Laurie, Gail Smith and John Hoge, all of Westfield. More news...

Rendell Vows Veto To Budget Agreement

GOV: NO DEAL!

Virginia M. Cady, 87, of Ulysses, PA

Ulysses, PA--Virginia M. Cady, 87, of Ulysses, PA, died Thursday, September 10, 2009 in the Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport, PA. She was born June 11, 1922, in Ulysses, PA. On June 28, 1941, in Ulysses, she married Edmund A. Cady, who predeceased her in 1994.

She was employed as a secretary by Sherwood Enterprises, Inc. and Larry's Sports Center. She also was a self-employed tax preparer and notary. Virginia was a member of the Ulysses First Baptist Church and the Order of the Eastern Star #95 in Ulysses.

Surviving are: a daughter, Jeannette (William) Butler of Ulysses; a son, Arnold (Melvianne) Cady of Sugarloaf Key, FL; five grandchildren, William (Shelly) Butler, Jr. of Wellsville, NY, Edward (Amanda) Butler of Ulysses, Daniel (Lisa) Butler of Butler, PA, Valerie (David) Harding of Odessa, FL, and Vicki (Allen) Roberts of Winder, GA; ten great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandsons. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her parents, Burr and Julia Chestnut Cowburn.

Friends may call Sunday, September 13, 2009 from 3:00 -- 5:00 PM at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Monday at 11:00 AM. The Rev. Frank Mickle will officiate. Burial will be in Ulysses Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Tri-Town Volunteer Ambulance or the Tri-Town Volunteer Fire Company, Ulysses, PA 16948.

Area Obituaries

Harry L. Greek, 72, of 5341 Nichols Run, Limestone, NY, passed away, Friday, September 11, 2009, at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.

Today's Recalls

Chulada, Inc. Announces Recall of Saladitos c/ Chile (Salted Plum w/ Chile Powder)

Penumbra Neuron 5F Select Catheter Recall

Smiths Medical Issues Urgent Device Recall Of Portex® Pediatric-Sized Tracheal Tubes

Voluntary Product Recall: Steinbeck Country Green Onions

CONMED Corporation Announces Voluntary Recall of Certain Powered Surgical Instrument Products

PREMIER ORGANICS Issues Nation Wide Recall For ARTISANA RAW TAHINI Because of Possible Health Risk

Arbonne International, LLC Announces Voluntary Recall of One Lot of Seasource Detox Spa® Foaming Sea Salt Scrub'

Kilwin's Quality Confections, Inc. Conducted Nationwide Recall of Chocolate-Covered Peanuts Because of Possible Health Risk

Coudersport Fire Dept. Dispatched For Land Rescue

Land Rescue
At about 3:00 pm on Friday, Coudersport Dept. 48 dispatched for a land rescue. The dispatch asked for firefighters to respond to the station and call for information.
UPDATE: A woman is reported to be injured, down an embankment, at a location on a hill the south of the Morgan Plant. Units on scene have called for a stokes basket to transport her up the embankment.
3:58--UPDATE: Command reports a possible broken leg with Charles Cole Hospital alerted that they will be transporting to that location.
5:00 PM--All units returning & Available

Divers Searching The Schuylkill River For Missing Nurse---On Scene Blogger Reports

BREAKING: PHILADELPHIA 76ers WILLIE GREEN QUESTIONED IN DISAPPEARANCE OF TONI LEE SHARPLESS

TONI LEE SHARPLESS — MISSING 17 DAYS; WHY NO ANSWERS?

More on TODAY'S SEARCH by Texas Equisearch

PPL Pays $450,000.00 After Improper Shutoff May Have Caused Woman's Death

PPL pays settlement in shut-off

PUC: Utility wronged fire victim

By TIM MEKEEL, Staff Writer

Lancaster Online

Behind on her electric bill last year, the sick woman did what PPL Electric Utilities told her.

The company instructed Cynthia Glassman, 64, to begin whittling down her old debt by paying her current bill, plus a little extra. She paid exactly what she was told to pay.

A few weeks later, PPL told her to do the same. Again she complied, paying exactly what PPL said it wanted, the state Public Utility Commission maintains.

But the PPL customer service representative failed to inform Glassman that she owed a $7 late fee, too, the PUC claims.

And after not receiving the fee, PPL concluded that Glassman had defaulted on her repayment plan and started the procedure to terminate her service.

So one Friday morning in August 2008, the PUC contends, PPL "erroneously" cut off service to the Manheim Township woman, who had Parkinson's disease.

Shortly after midnight, 17 hours after her service was ended, her Wythe Circle home went up in flames, killing her and razing the structure. More...

BREAKING NEWS--Break in Budget Impasse

Budget
It appears there is a break in the budget impasse in Pennsylvania, 73 days after a budget was due.

State lawmakers announced Friday in Harrisburg that House Democrats and both parties in the Senate have reached a tentative, $28 billion budget agreement. More....

Route 15 To Be Made Safer--WNEP Video

911 Remembered......... Who Will Answer The Call?

A National Day of Service

Friday, 11 September 2009

Potter County Fire News

As I begin writing this, at this time 8 years ago today a plane hit the North tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. At that moment our world as we knew it changed forever. Less than 10 minutes later a second plane would hit the South tower. It didn’t take long for anyone watching these events unfold to realize that our nation was under attack. Within a matter of just over an hour both towers would fall resulting in a catastrophic loss of life including that of 343 of our brother firefighters. To the south of NYC another plane would hit the Pentagon, a symbol of America’s military might, and a fourth plane would crash into a field in South Central Pennsylvania after the innocent passengers on board took matters into their own hands in an attempt to prevent further catastrophe on the nation’s capital.

Our world, our country, our fire service would be changed forever.

Most of us will never forget what we were doing that day, at the moment we first heard the news, as we watched the events unfold in front of us on our televisions and our computer screens. I recall being in the “Tennis Center” in Coudersport and having someone tell me that a plane had hit the WTC in NYC. One of my co-workers had received a call from their spouse alerting them to what was unfolding to our east. As he pulled up CNN’s live feed on his computer screen a crowd quickly gathered around in disbelief.

I remember trying for more than an hour to reach my parents in Elk County to alert them to what was happening. When I finally reached them they had no idea what had been happening and quickly turned on the TV. I told them that our country appeared to be under attack. I recall telling my father that I knew then how he had felt on that dark day of December 7th 1941. For this was my generation’s Pearl Harbor.

In the days, weeks and months that followed, as our brothers of FDNY worked to find the remains of our 343 brothers that we lost when the tower fell, the flags flew across our nation as a symbol that our country had pulled together to overcome the aggression that had been brought to our doorstep. Some people joined the military, some became firefighters, and others police officers. There was a feeling that we all HAD to do something.

In the eight years that have passed since that fateful day that feeling has waned for many and the numbers of those that serve our county here at home have dropped. The federal money to hire more police and firefighters and the equipment to support them has been harder to come by in recent years. Some groups have even fought to stop the funding all together. The number of people that volunteer for the fire service continues to drop putting communities and their citizens at risk.

On this National Day of Service on the 8th anniversary of that dark day in our country’s history its time for us to renew that sense of service to our communities. That sense that we HAVE to do SOMETHING.

Our local emergency services are in dire need of volunteers. The average age of our volunteer fire and emergency medical service continues to increase as the number of volunteers continues to drop. Many of the local EMS organizations are having trouble getting a rig on the road when there is a call for help. The number of members that are available to respond to fire calls continues to drop to the point were several departments must be called in order to have enough manpower to quell a blaze. These organizations can not continue to protect the public if the citizens of the communities they serve don’t take an active part in their operations.

So on this day of service make a commitment, to yourself and your community. Become a member of your local fire department or ambulance service. Yes it takes many hours of training and hard work but the rewards are well worth the cost. For if you are not willing to help your community, who will? When the call for help goes out, who will answer that call? If not you, then who? Become part of the solution today. WE WILL NEVER FORGET!

More Layoffs For Tioga County Employees

Tioga County lays off 11 employees

By BRYAN G. ROBINSON Sun-Gazette Correspondent

WELLSBORO - The Tioga County Commissioners laid off 11 employees Tuesday morning, including seven in the county Department of Human Services, with an effective date of Aug. 28 for most of them.

"We are driven to make this decision based on revenue to position the county for this year and for the year coming," said commissioner Erick Coolidge about the layoffs. "It has nothing to do with performance and everything to do with the economy."

The commissioners also approved a line of credit for up to $3.8 million with Citizens & Northern Bank to be paid back with revenues from the Department of Human Services. Samuel A. Greene III, administrator for the department, said the line of credit was for the human service system, which funds programs through providers such as Laurel Health System and Partners in Progress.

Derek Williams, chief clerk, said finances have stopped coming in from the state, so he and the commissioners are working closely with the department heads to keep the costs down.

"We're looking at programs we can reduce without causing services to be affected," he said. "It's very difficult and we're working extra hard to figure this out."

Normally, he said the county would be preparing for next year's budget at this point, but that the lack of a state budget has made that difficult.

Altogether 27 to 29 people have been laid off thus far, with 40 positions reduced, Williams said. More...

“Unstoppable” Filming Continues In Area

Elementary students in Eldred get roles in “Unstoppable”

By SUE FREER
Era Correspondent
O_Eera@yahoo.com

ELDRED — From pre-school to sixth grade, students at Otto-Eldred Elementary School are star-struck.

Filming of the movie “Unstoppable” has the whole town turned upside down. Children look out their classroom window and see directors walking by, cars parked on the playground and tents in the parking lots. Who could concentrate on reading and writing with everything going on around them? At lunchtime, second graders are sharing rumors of seeing Denzel Washington on the playground. More...

Franklin F. "Ted" Bryant Sr., 82, of Galeton, PA, formerly of Mansfield, PA

Franklin F. "Ted" Bryant Sr., 82, of Galeton, PA, formerly of Mansfield, PA, moved on to God's care on Tuesday, September 8, 2009, at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hospital, Wellsboro, PA. A son of the late Frank and Mildred (Bailey) Bryant, he was born on March 6, 1927 in Mansfield, PA.

On October 31, 1994, he married the former Marilyn T. Barnes, who survives.

Frank was a Roving Manager for Armco Steel and was also a self-employed logger and farmer. In addition to being a member of the Sunderlinville Baptist Church, he enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors and had a special love for his animals, including his horses, cows and goats.

Surviving besides his wife are sons, Franklin Bryant Jr., Galeton, Gary (Sue) Bryant, Wisconsin, Doug Bryant, Galeton, Donald Bryant, Galeton, and Frankie Bryant, Scranton, PA; stepchildren, Richard (Le Ann) Bryant, Missouri, Ricky (Diane), Randy, Holly and Terri Bryant, all of Galeton; a sister, Rachelle Kirkland, Florida; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Frank was predeceased by two brothers and three sisters.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled Veterans Association or to the Feed the Children Fund.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hess Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Collins Chapel, Galeton, PA.

Leaking Gasoline Tanks Approved For Removal

Three underground storage tanks that pose environmental risks in Potter County have been approved for cleanup with federal funds. Pennsylvania has tapped into the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help pay for removal of leaking gas tanks at the Costello General Store in Portage Township, Faith’s Country Store in Roulette, and Mills Country Store in Harrison Township.

Identified sites include those where the responsible party is unknown or the owner is unable or unwilling to remove the tanks and remediate the site. In the latter instance, the state may take actions to recover cleanup costs.

There have been more than 14,700 known releases from underground storage tanks in Pennsylvania since 1989. Remediation has been completed for 11,500 sites, and corrective actions are under way at nearly all the remaining sites. Cleanup can range from as little as $5,000 up to multi-million dollar projects that involve long-term treatment of contaminated groundwater. The state’s Underground Storage Tank Indemnification Fund, supported by a tax on gasoline sold in the state, has paid for thousands of tank cleanups.

State law now requires that all underground storage tanks be registered and permitted. New tanks must be double-walled and have corrosion protection and leak detection. Potter County Today

Coudersport Main Street Committee Meeting Open To Public

mainstreet Next meeting of the Coudersport Main Street Committee will be held today (Friday, Sept. 11) at 10:00 AM, at the F. W. Gunzburger County Office Building in Coudersport. The public is welcome. Meeting location is the commissioners’ conference room. Enter on Main Street and bear left at the end of the main hall.

Guest speaker will be John Bry, a former Pennsylvania Downtown Center director, who will discuss ways to tie in downtown revitalization efforts with regional, state and national programs and stimulate business in downtown Coudersport.

The group was formed earlier this year to develop a comprehensive strategy to revitalize Coudersport’s business district. Mission of the Coudersport Main Street Committee is to bring together business leaders, borough officials and the Potter County Board of Commissioners and Redevelopment Authority for the purpose of attracting businesses to occupy the downtown area, primarily Main and Second streets.

Representing the business community are Christie Keglovits, Donald Gilliland and Walter Baker. Coudersport Borough representatives are Mayor Wick Furman, Borough Manager Marlin Moore, Councilman George Hults and Public Works Director Lou Karija. Potter County Today

Free Cancer Screenings At Charles Cole Hospital

WIVB Streaming Live Event From 911 Site

LIVE Webcast @ 8:40am - September 11th Commemoration Ceremony in New York

Watch now »

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Manheim Man's Pike Township Camp Forcibly Entered

Camp Break In
Sometime between June 14 and September 10, unknown actors(s) forcibly entered a seasonal dwelling in an area behind EF Dean, Inc. on Route 6 in Pike Township.

The camp's owner is Donald Kopp of Manheim, PA

Troopers said items were moved around inside the camp but nothing was reported stolen. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Trooper James Culvey at PSP Coudersport 814-274-8690.

Potter County Tax Sale Scheduled For Monday In Courtroom

auction Potter County Tax Claim Bureau (TCB) will hold its annual Upset Sale on Monday (Sept. 14) at 9 am in the courtroom. Dozens of property owners who would otherwise stand to lose their holdings in Monday’s sale have been reporting to the TCB office at the Gunzburger Building to make payment and avoid that outcome. TCB Director Todd Brown reports that, as of noon today (Thursday, Sept. 10), there were just over 100 properties on the list for sale.

“If past trends hold true, that number will be greatly reduced by the time the sale convenes on Monday,” Brown said. He cited the 2008 Upset Sale, during which seven properties were sold by auction, while another two dozen attracted no bidders and were designated for a judicial sale or for the county repository. Traditionally, many properties attract no bids due to liens and other factors that would encumber the buyer. Properties are sold caveat emptor (”buyer beware”), with no guarantee of clear title.

The TCB has met a series of deadlines for sending notifications and manually posting hundreds of properties across Potter County. Brown reported that more than $200,000 has come into the TCB during this week. That money will be distributed to school districts, municipalities and the county treasury.

This year, the TCB offered a new payment plan for taxpayers who were having trouble meeting their obligations: monthly installment payments. If they miss a payment, however, they are subject to having their property listed and ultimately sold through the annual Upset Sale. Potter County Today

Steve Erway Recognized By Lions Club

Lou Karija Photo

Lions club president Ron Angood presents past president Steve Erway with the Master key award for successfully opening the door of Lionism to at least two individuals. The presentation took place during the last Lions club meeting held at the Crittenden Hotel on Wed. Sept. 9th. The Lions Club International joins Lions worldwide in expressing sincere congragulations to the recipents for demonstrating active commitment to growth and strength of the association. Steve invites anyone who wishes to become involved in this great organization to contact him , Ron or any Lions Club member. Donations are still needed for the Lions Arboretum train car.

Recap Of Today's News From Gerri Miller.com

Now Available On Zito Media Cable Channel 450

Hear the local news first on Black Forest Broadcasting starting at 7:00am

Contact: gerrimiller@pennswoods.net

Copyright: 2008 G.R. Miller. All Rights Reserved.

ROULETTE RESIDENT SENTENCED TO JAIL FOR DRUGS
Jeffrey Jones,37 of Roulette has been sentenced to a jail term of 21-60 months after being found guilty, by jury trial, of Possession with Intent to Deliver (F), Possession of Marijuana (M), Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Deliver (F) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (M)

According to Potter County DA Dawn FinkOn State Polcie were called on May 2, 2008 to North Street in Roulette after Potter County Probation Officers performed a random check at the defendant’s home, which he shared with a co-defendant Jennifer Sission.

Inside the home Probation Officers found marijuana and paraphernalia. A search warrant was prepared and executed at the address. Inside the home numerous items of drug contraband were seized. More News...

2 Vehicle Head-On Crash On Willow Street In Smethport

Head-On Crash
At 6:00 pm, on Thursday, Smethport Fire Department and Smethport ambulance were dispatched to a two car head-on accident on Willow Street in Smethport. One person is reported possibly injured. The crash is in the vicinity of the swimming pool.

4H Garden Goodies On Sale At Court House Square

Buy fresh, buy local from the 4-H Potter County Community Garden where
the crops were grown by 4th. through 6th. graders at the Coudersport
Farmer's Market (located at the Court House Square) on Friday from
5pm-7pm and Saturday from 10am to 12pm.

Stihl Chainsaw Stolen Last Month On Bell Run

Chainsaw Stolen On Bell Run
A Stihl MS440 chainsaw was stolen sometime between August 15th and August 22nd from a vehicle located inside of a barn on the Bell Run Road in Ceres Township.

Troopers said the chainsaw was the property of a 40 year old white, non hispanic female with a Shinglehouse address.

Kane State Police are asking if anyone has information on who the unknown actor(s) are who stole the known chainsaw from the known victim to contact them at PSP Kane 814-778-5555. Trooper Kramer is the investigating officer.

Mt. Jewett Man Faces Charges In Clearfield County

Defendants waive preliminary hearings
Thursday, September 10, 2009

By Liza Matia Staff Writer
The Progress News, Clearfield

A Mount Jewett man who allegedly stole a motorcycle, gas and a coal truck waived his right to a preliminary hearing. Bradley Mix, 34, faces charges of theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, retail theft and driving under suspension.

According the affidavit of probable cause, Mix's spree began on July 15 when he pumped $9.15 of gas into a Harley Davidson motorcycle at Kwik-Fill in Lawrence Township.

Mix attempted to drive off without paying, but accelerated the bike too rapidly, which caused a belt to snap. He pushed the disabled motorcycle to the end of the lot and went next door to Clearfield Imports to inquire about parts to fix it.

When the gas station attendant approached Mix, he fled on foot.

Police could not locate him, but learned the bike belonged to another Mount Jewett man.

On July 16, police received a report of a stolen tri-axle dump truck from Waroquier Coal Company. The truck had been loaded when it was removed. Officers found tire tracks leading from the truck's former position to the driveway and onto the Clearfield-Curwensville High- way.

The truck was found July 17 at a repair shop on Philadelphia Street in Indiana. A CB radio was missing from the cab. Officers later learned that the bike had been reported stolen from the Kane area.

They contacted the owner who suspected Mix removed the bike from his garage on July 14. More...

‘Pennsylvania Wilds’ Planners Meet With Commissioners

sammcdonald Two officials from the “Pennsylvania Wilds” planning organization met with the Potter County Board of Commissioners on Thursday to explain the group’s mission and seek support from county officials and the public. Outreach Specialist Sam McDonald (right) and Senior Advisor Dan Surra pointed out that the key to effective tourist promotion, economic development and heritage preservation on a regional basis is local planning and coordination. McDonald and Surra serve on the Pennsylvania Wilds Planning Team. Another team member, Potter County Planning Director Charlotte Dietrich, also attended Thursday’s meeting.

McDonald said community leaders and business operators across the region have recognized the value in a multi-county approach. He hastened to add that the Pennsylvania Wilds initiatives, including a design guide for architecture, landscaping, signs and lighting, are voluntary. McDonald noted that a competitive grant program administered by the Planning Team will provide funds for community and business signs that match the design standards.

dansurra Surra (left), an Elk County resident and former member of the Pa. House of Representatives, said the Pennsylvania Wilds concept has strong support by the state, but that could change as political winds shift. “As residents and stakeholders in the 12 counties of the Pennsylvania Wilds, we are responsible to be sure that it’s a priority with the people we elect,” Surra said.

Based on trends in the tourism industry, Surra added, northcentral Pennsylvania is poised for growth based on its outdoor recreation potential, scenery, heritage and special attractions. “We have about two million acres of public land here,” he noted. “We’re sitting on a gold mine.”

Single- or multi-county tourist promotion organizations, such as a the Potter County Visitors Association, work with the Pennsylvania Wilds Planning Team to coordinate promotional activities. Establishing of the Pennsylvania Wilds program is part of a strategy by the state to support regional, rather than county-by-county, marketing to tourists.

Potter County Today

BRADFORD BYPASS PROJECT UPDATE, WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 14

BRADFORD BYPASS PROJECT UPDATE, WEEK OF
SEPTEMBER 14

CLEARFIELD – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT/District 2) issues the following update for the Route 219, McKean County/Bradford Bypass project. This update is for the week of September 14. Contractor on the $28.1 million project is Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. The project extends from just north of the city of Bradford in Pennsylvania to the New York State line.

All work is weather/schedule dependent and can be subject to change. The following work schedule is for the week of September 14:

• Kendall Avenue will remain open to two- way traffic. Work will include curb and sidewalk placement and will continue with daytime flagging.
• The contractor continues to work on southbound reconstruction by placing sub-base and bituminous pavement.
• Northbound and southbound traffic are traveling in the northbound lanes, separated by concrete barrier from Forman Street to north of Hillside Drive.
• Southbound ramps at the Foster Brook interchange remain closed. Traffic is to follow the posted detour.
• The contractor continues to work on southbound bridges. Work includes expansion dam replacements, steel retrofits, deck repairs, approach slabs and painting.
• Tuna Valley Trail access at Bolivar Drive remains closed due to bridgework. Trail access is still available at Crook Farms and the Seaward Avenue side of Tuna Crossroads (Township Route 369).
• Access at Hillside Drive remains restricted from Route 219 north to Hillside Drive and from Hillside Drive to Route 219 south. Traffic is to follow the posted detour.
• Drivers should use extra caution while entering the construction area from the on-ramp areas. Be aware of approaching traffic speeds and restricted lanes at ramps.
• Motorists need to watch for slow moving and stopped vehicles through the entire work zone.
• Lane width in the construction zone is 10 feet.
• Please obey posted speed limits and remember to always buckle up.

For more information on roadway construction and maintenance operations, visit PennDOT’s website at www.dot.state.pa.us.

Potter County Commissioners Meet-9/10/09

POTTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING

September 10, 2009

NEW BUSINESS

· SPEAKERS – PA Wilds - Dan Surra and Sam MacDonald

CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS

· AGREEMENT – Between Potter County and Digital Solutions, Inc. for licensed software for managing data relating to Probation Management Systems at an annual cost not to exceed $14,035.00 for support and maintenance after the first year, excluding additional fees for supplemental services, travel and living expenses.

· AGREEMENT – Between Potter County and Zehr.net for the creation of a basic county website at a cost of $500.00 for setup, $125.00 for yearly hosting and $35.00 per hour for ongoing site support.

· PCHS CONTRACT

CHILDREN AND YOUTH 07/08 08/09

Penn State Cooperative Extension

Providing Penn State Family Fitness Program

Curriculum for after school program (Coudersport

And Austin) N/A $8,784

9/11/08 to 8/30/09

TRAINING REQUESTS

· Debbie Lincoln, Keegan Treat (PCHS) – Pelican, September 24, 2009, Harrisburg, Pa. Request for meals, mileage and lodging ($83.25) expenses. There is no registration fee.

Purpose: Required training for Pelican

· Donna Foust, Darcy Shutt (PCHS) – Apprise Regional Update for Open Enrollment, October 28, 2009, Clarion, Pa. Request for mileage expenses only.

Purpose: Mandatory training to provide updates on Medicare and Medicare Part D prescription plans to prepare for Medicare open enrollment.

· Donna Foust, Darcy Shutt (PCHS) – MIPPA Grant Training, October 26, 2009, Clarion, Pa. Request for mileage expenses only.

Purpose: Mandatory training to learn requirements of MIPPA Grant and Low Income Subsidy enrollment.