Updated Birth Announcement With Photo

Tanner Owen Drake Makes His Debut At Charles Cole Hospital

Updated with photo
TANNER OWEN DRAKE made his appearance at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital on May 31, 2010.

He is the son of Darla Carpenter and Todd Drake of Galeton, PA. He weighed in at 6 lbs 13 1/2 ounces. He joins a brother, Levi Carpenter, age 7.

Maternal Grandparents are Mike and Jackie Ling, Reading, PA.

Maternal Great-Grandparents are Bill and Gerry Ling, Herford, PA; Sandra Landis, Reading, PA; and Rich Johnson, Wernersville, PA.

Paternal Grandparents are Ray and Sandra Osgood, Sabinsville, PA; and Larry and Jackie Drake, Galeton, PA.

Paternal Great-Grandparents are Cliff and Elsie McCleaft, Shinglehouse, PA.; and Fordyce Easton, Westfield, PA

Carlisle Runner Wins God's Country Marathon In Potter County

County Employee Completes 36th Marathon For A Cause

Potter County Today

An athlete and businessman from Carlisle is champion of the 36th annual God’s Country Marathon. Josh Beck (right), 32, had to hold off a hard charge by a challenger down the stretch to win the Galeton-to-Coudersport race with a time of two hours, 41 minutes. Beck is no stranger to tough competition or physical challenges and he got both on Saturday. “This race was on my radar screen for a long time, and I finally decided to go for it,” Beck said. “I knew that the hill was going to be a challenge and, yes, it was hard.” Beck operates a business, Appalachian Running Company, featuring footwear and equipment for competitive and recreational runners. He has competed in many marathons, duathlons, triathlons and other races.

Potter County Visitors Association, the county’s official tourist promotion agency, sponsors the marathon to attract attention to the county’s scenery and rural charm. PCVA Executive Director David Brooks said there were about 150 runners answering the 7 am starter’s gun in Galeton, which was on par with the turnout of recent years.

Some of the entrants were running for a cause, including Micki Boucher (shown), an employee of the Potter County Area Agency on Aging. She collected donations and per-mile pledges to compete the 26.2-mile course as a fund-raiser for the agency’s home-delivered meals program, which has been hampered by funding limitations.

Two runners who have run in every race – Paul Marraccini and Park Barner – returned.

Race Director Kim Mitchell thanked the many volunteers who turned out to set up about two dozen water stations along the route. She also thanked the runners for their tolerance of construction zones and deteriorated berms along portions of the AAU-certified course that follows Rt. 6 over Denton Hill and cuts through Coudersport on Park Avenue before reaching the courthouse square finish line.

Motorcycle Crash Reported In Oswayo

Motorcycle Crash In Oswayo
At 2:24 pm on Saturday, Shinglehouse Dept. 39 and Coudersport Dept. 48 have been dispatched to Oswayo where a motorcycle has crashed in front of the Fish Hatchery.
Coudersport was recalled by Shinglehouse Chief.

Shinglehouse units were told to respond at a reduced rate by their chief.

Near Roulette In Potter County, PA--Darry Connelly Shares This Black Bear He Photographed On This ATV Trail

Click on any photo to enlarge

Gas firm seeks to pipe water to site

Gas firm seeks to pipe water to site

Pine Creek Valley residents concerned about plans

By SCOTT JOHNSON - sjohnson@lockhaven.com

TORBERT - Landowners with the Torbert Development Association are "gravely concerned" about a natural gas drilling company's plan to pump and pipe water from Pine Creek to a nearby gas well, possibly using up to 3 million gallons of water per day.

Anadarko E&P Co. Ltd. has an application pending with the Susquehanna River Basin Commission to pump an undetermined amount of water from Pine Creek, near West Side Road across from Torbert Village, and pipe it to drilling operation up the mountain, west of the creek.

The targeted land is part of Anadarko's lease with the state in the Tiadaghton State Forest. More...

Thelma G. Dent, 88, of 23 Glenwood Ave., Bradford, PA

Thelma G. Dent, 88, of 23 Glenwood Ave. passed away Friday, June 4th, 2010 at The Pavilion at BRMC.

Born April 28, 1922, in Altoona, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Sarah (Claycomb) Wertz.

On September 27, 1945 in Bradford she married Duane R. Dent who died on May 17, 1998.

Mrs. Dent was a 1942 graduate of Altoona High School. She received an Associates Degree in Religion from Liberty Baptist University in Virginia. She had worked at Sylvania on a defense contract during World War II. She then later worked at Anderson's Supermarket, Campbell's Market, Anderson's Diner and retired as a cashier from the Market Basket grocery store.

She was a member of Sawyer Evangelical Church. She had been in charge of the prayer calendar at church. She and her husband traveled to do church mission work .

She had been a member of the Maud Rebekah Lodge # 175, Women's Life Insurance Society, and Beta Sigma Phi. For many years, she volunteered at the Salvation Army, the Literacy Program at the public library and had delivered for Meals on Wheels.

Surviving are two daughters two daughters, Linda Dent of Bradford, and Diana Dent of Alexandria, VA, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in by her parents, husband, three sisters and one brother.

Family will be receiving friends on Monday, June 7, 2010 from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9PM in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. South Ave., and again on Tuesday, June 8th from 10:00 to 11:00am in the Sawyer Evangelical Church where funeral and committal services will be held at 11:00AM with Rev. Brad Preston, pastor officiating. Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park. Members of the Maud Rebekah Lodge #175 will conduct a memorial service on Monday at 7:00pm in the funeral home.

Memorials if desired may be made to Sawyer Evangelical Church or the Parkinson's Foundation, of Western PA, 6507 Wilkins Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15217

Online condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Firefighters Dispatched For Search In Austin

Austin Firefighters Preparing For Search
At 12:08 pm on Saturday, Austin Dept. 44 is assembling a crew to initiate a search. No other details were given.

Graveside Service For Norma J. Arnold Thursday

Friends are invited to attend a graveside service for Norma J. Arnold, 78, formerly of 440 Congress Street and Abbey Apts., who passed away December 27, 2009, at the Bradford Manor.

Services will be held on Thursday, June 10, 2010, at 1:00PM in the Chapel at McKean Memorial Park Cemetery with Pastor Robbie Arnold PCUSA , step daughter in law.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes,Inc. On line condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Potter County Drug Task Force In Motion

Drug task force developing in Potter County

By RUTH BOGDAN
Era Reporter
r.bogdan@bradfordera.com

Potter County police are in the midst of developing a new drug enforcement task force under the direction of District Attorney Andy Watson.

“We are in motion,” Watson stated in an interview Thursday afternoon, explaining the officers have already completed several successful undercover operations and drug buys. More...

Fish For Free Day In Pennsylvania Is Sunday--No License Required

Harrisburg, PA - Have a little free time on your hands? Grab a friend or family member and try some free fishing. Thanks to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC), the only thing you’ll have to spend is some quality time together.

The PFBC has designated Saturday, May 22, and Sunday, June 6, as Fish For Free Days in the Commonwealth. Fish For Free Days allow anyone – not just license holders or youth under the age of 16 – to legally fish in Pennsylvania. From 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on both days, no fishing license is needed to fish in Pennsylvania's waterways.

“Fish For Free Days provide an opportunity for active anglers to introduce a friend or relative to the lifelong sport of fishing,” said PFBC Executive Director Douglas Austen. “It's also a great way for families to have fun, create new memories and spend quality time together.

However, if you venture to the Pymatuning Reservoir or Tamarack Lake in Crawford County, you'll want to remember not to eat the fish you catch.

The departments of Environmental Protection and Health, and the Fish and Boat Commission have announced that the “Do Not Eat” consumption advisory for all species of fish taken from Pymatuning Reservoir and Tamarack Lake in Crawford County will remain in effect while officials continue to probe the cause of large fish kills in the two water bodies.

The commonwealth’s Interagency Fish Consumption Advisory Technical Workgroup has received and verified the majority of all results from tests on fish tissue and water quality samples collected from the two lakes.

Preliminary results indicate that the fish kills were the result of naturally-occurring bacteria that was triggered by several stressors including rapidly warming waters during the spawning season.

The remaining sample results are expected to be available next week, at which time a decision will be made on whether to lift or adjust the consumption advisory. Water samples are being analyzed at the DEP laboratory in Harrisburg, and fish samples are being tested by the Fish and Boat Commission and at Cornell University.

Pymatuning State Park remains open and there are no fishing, swimming or boating restrictions in place. Tamarack Lake also remains open with no restrictions.

Bradford Man Charged In Sobriety Checkpoint

On Rt. 219 In Bradford Township
Kane Troopers report that on May 28, 2010 at 11:15 pm, Donald Joseph Munday, 46, of Bradford, PA, operating a 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo entered a DUI Sobriety Checkpoint conducted by Pennsylvania State Police.

Munday was under the influence of alcohol. Charges are pending in District Court 48-3-03.

Check Now Or Never Club At Cafe Olga Saturday Nite

The Tea Party Is Coming To Coudersport June 15th

Jim,

I tried to post a comment on the article about the Commissioners press conference but was not able so I thought I would email you and send a copy of the tea party poster.

I believe the government is way out of line with all the regulations and paper work they require that cause more work and cost the local governments .

I thought this is the perfect time to announce that the Mckean County and possibly Elk County TEA PARTY organizers have agreed to come to Coudersport to share the TEA PARTY 'S message at the courthouse square on June 15th. Anyone who is fed up with big government, out of control spending and ignoring the constitution should attend .

WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE WE CAN SEND A MESSAGE TO ALL POLITICIANS "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH "

LOU KARIJA

H. Diane Stein, 63, of 10667 Montrose Rd. Apt 201 Bethesda, MD, formerly of Bradford,

H. Diane Stein, 63, of 10667 Montrose Rd. Apt 201 Bethesda, MD, formerly of Bradford, passed away on Thursday, June 3rd, 2010 at her residence after a lengthy illness.

Born May 19, 1947 in Bradford she was a daughter of the late William and Adele (Friedman) Stein.

She was a 1965 graduate of Bradford High School, and later received her BA and MA in Education from American University in Washington DC.

Diane was a beloved elementary school teacher in Bethesda MD for over 30 years. After her retirement she enjoyed teaching ESL to new Americans in the Washington area and teaching writing to students at Montgomery County Community College.

Diane is survived by a sister, Dr. Nancy Elman of Pittsburgh, two uncles: Bennett Friedman of Bradford, and Harry Stein of Rochester, she was the loving aunt to Deborah (Daniel Bunker) Elman, and William (Shawn) Elman, and great aunt to Marissa Elman, Andrew Elman, and Lindsey Bunker.

Friend are invited to attend a Graveside Services on Monday June 7th, at 1:00pm in Willow Dale Cemetery with Larry Lawson officiating. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to the a charity of the donors choice.

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

Bill Prevents Citing Of Community Groups For Bake Sales

'Pie Bill' Signed into Law

Governor Ed Rendell has signed Senator Elder Vogel's legislation barring the state from citing community groups for selling home-made baked goods.

Senate Bill 828, also known as the "Pie Bill", eliminates the ability of the Department of Agriculture to cite non-profit community groups such as volunteer fire companies, churches, and school booster clubs for selling non-hazardous home-baked food at fundraisers. It is Senator Vogel's first bill to be signed into law.

"This is a good day for community organizations and groups all across Pennsylvania that rely on selling donated baked goods for fundraising," Vogel said.

Senator Vogel introduced the bill after a local church in his district came under state scrutiny for selling homemade pies prepared by ladies of the church at a Lenten fish fry.

"I am pleased that we have completed this process, and appreciate the support that I received from my colleagues and the Governor," Vogel said. "The groundswell of support from folks all across Pennsylvania on this issue was outstanding, and just shows that people believe we need to restore a little common sense to government," Senator Vogel said.

http://www.governor.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=18&objID=838028&mode=2

Posted by Anne at 1490 NewsBlog

Open Arms Newsletter

Hey everyone!

Most kids are saying, "June is finally here! School's out! Yay!!"
Speaking of, we will be honoring Graduates this Sunday!
Congratulations graduates!!

The Bait of satan: Starting this Sunday, June 6th. Live free from
the deadly trap of offense and a victim mentality. This series will
expose one of the most deceptive snares satan uses to get us out of
the will of God.

Growth Group sign ups this weekend! Use the sheet in your packet or
sign up in the lobby. If you have never signed up for a growth group,
I encourage you to do so. This is a great way to stay connected to
your church family and to grow in your relationship with Jesus!

Gift of Fun & Fellowship from Open Arms to you! Free Bowling every
Friday in June from 8pm to 10pm. You Must sign up on sheet on
bulleting board to secure your slot. First come, first serve. Total
of 10 people per night.

Soldiers Prayer Wall: If you have family or a friend serving in the
military, you may submit their picture, name and information to Shawn
Murphy or Chris Stavish to be posted on the Soldiers Prayer Wall.

Prayer and Fasting week will be June 21st - 25th.

Prayer and Praise Service will be June 25th from 7pm - 9pm. Join us
for music, prayer, communion, and connecting.

Have a wonderful weekend and hope to see you out at the benefit!! God
Bless!!


Open Arms Community Church
http://www.openarmsbradford.org
1289 East Main Street
Bradford, PA 16701
openarms@openarmsbradford.org

Car/Deer Crash West of Port Allegany

Car/Deer Crash with Injury
At 5:30 pm on Friday, Port Allegany Dept. 3, and Ambulance 3, responded to a car-deer accident on Route 6 on the second hill west of Port Allegany near Freer Hollow.

Carrin R. Potocek, 24, of Port Allegany, PA, the driver, suffered a minor injury. She was treated at the scene.

Her passenger, Donja M. Allen, 21, of Port Allegany, PA was not injured.

Both women were wearing seat belts.

Troopers said the crash occurred as Potocek's car was traveling west on Route 6 near Freer Hollow Road, when a deer entered the highway and was struck by the car's left front, in the westbound lane.

The car was driven from the scene. Troopers were assisted by Port Allegany EMS and Fire Dept.

Lawrence L. 'Larry' Munn, 62, of 878 High Street, Bradford, PA

Lawrence L. 'Larry' Munn, 62, of 878 High Street, passed away Thursday, June 3rd, 2010 at his residence.

Born September 13, 1947, in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Francis L. and Grace (Ormsby) Munn.

On March 2, 1974 in Ocala Fl, married Rosoline J. (Gee) Munn who survives.

He was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School, and also attended the University of Buffalo.

He was employed for the Sparkle Ice Company in Tampa, Fl., and he also worked for Allegheny-Bradford Corporation.

A lifetime member of the N.R.A., he was also a member of the McKean County Rifle Club. Prior to his accident he was an avid hunter and fisherman.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Lorie (Bernard) Henning of Lewis Run, Angela Munn of Niagara Falls, NY and Trisha Kemp of Belfast, NY, three sons Keith McDaniel of Chester, S.C., John Munn of Wisconsin and Steven Kemp of Chester, SC, and two grandchildren, Ceegan Danielson and Tanner Danielson.

Friends will be recieved from 6 to 7 PM on Tuesday, June 8, 2010 in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. South Ave., at which time a memorial service will be held with Rev. Max Miller, Pastor of the Bradford Area Parish officiating.

Memorials can be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Change for Route 219/Bradford Bypass

Change for Route 219/Bradford Bypass Project Update for Week of June 7

Clearfield – PennDOT issues the following change to the travel update for the Route 219/Bradford Bypass project in McKean County. This change is for the week of June 7. All work is weather and schedule dependent. Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. of State College is the contractor on this $28 million job.

• Work on the Route 219 southbound ON-ramp at Elm Street continues. Traffic is using the existing shoulder. Contractor crew will be working close to the roadway, placing concrete for a new barrier wall. Expect delays during work hours.
• Northbound traffic is sharing a lane with southbound traffic, separated by temporary concrete barrier from Mill Street to north of Hillside Drive.
• Northbound ramps at Foster Brook Interchange are closed. Traffic is to follow the posted detours.
• The Tuna Valley Trail access at Bolivar Drive is closed due to bridgework. Trail access is still available at Crook Farms and Seward Avenue side of Tuna Crossroads.
• Northbound access at Kendall Avenue remains open.
• Access at Hillside Drive is restricted from Route 219 south to Hillside Drive and from Hillside Drive to Route 219 south. Traffic is to follow the posted detours.
• The travel pattern for Bolivar Drive/State Route 346 has been changed. Work will continue with flaggers present. Drivers should expect alternating traffic pattern and travel-time delays.
• The contractor continues to excavate existing roadway, place sub-base, and perform bridge repairs.
• Drivers should use extra caution while entering the construction area from the on-ramp areas. Watch for slow moving and stopped vehicles through the entire work zone and obey posted speed limits.

Land Rescue At Roulette

Roulette Responding To ATV Crash
At 4:22 PM on Friday, Roulette Dept. 46 rescue and ambulance crews are responding to the scene of an ATV accident off of Laninger Creek Road, in Roulette Township.

Rescue crews have met with an individual who is to take them to the scene of an ATV crash in a remote location. One person was reported to be injured.

Operations have been moved to the PGE well site off the Reed Run Road.

The helicopter is on scene and is going to land in a field near a small pond at the head of Card Creek. It was reported to be going to Guthrie in Sayre.

PITT-BRADFORD STUDENT AWARDED SEMESTER AT SEA SCHOLARSHIP

PITT-BRADFORD STUDENT AWARDED SEMESTER AT SEA SCHOLARSHIP

BRADFORD, Pa. – University of Pittsburgh at Bradford student Romainne Harrod has been awarded a $7,000 scholarship to assist her in covering the expenses of taking part in “Semester at Sea” in the fall.

Harrod, an English major from Peoria, Ariz., received the scholarship from the Institute for Shipboard Education at the University of Virginia.

In addition to Harrod, two other Pitt-Bradford students will be taking part in the Fall 2010 voyage, Thomas Gibbons, a sophomore economics major from Lebanon, N.J., and Thomas Skelton, a sophomore economics major from Corry.

Harrod, Gibbons and Skelton plus 700 student shipmates and a cohort of faculty, staff, dependents and crew will depart Halifax, Nova Scotia, on M.V. Explorer Aug. 27.

While at sea, students will take classes and earn 12 course credits from the University of Virginia. Stops on the voyage include Spain, Morocco, Ghana, South Africa, Mauritius, India, Singapore, Vietnam, China (including Hong Kong, Shanghai and optional travel to Beijing), Japan, Hawaii and San Diego, where the ship will dock Dec. 13.

Nobel Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu will be among those sailing on the voyage. Tutu is the retired bishop of Cape Town and is known for his role in dismantling the apartheid system in South Africa. He has sailed on other voyages in 2007, 2005 and 1984.

The Institute for Shipboard Education makes available one scholarship to a Pitt-Bradford student for each fall and spring voyage. Interested students can find out how to apply by contacting Dr. K. James Evans, vice president and dean of student affairs, at kje2@pitt.edu or (814)362-7650.

Miguel Alberto "Mike" Martinez, 76, of 126 South Ave. Bradford, formerly of Burnside Ave.

Miguel Alberto "Mike" Martinez, 76, of 126 South Ave. Bradford, formerly of Burnside Ave. passed away Wednesday, May 19th, 2010 at The Bradford Regional Medical Center.

Born July 10, 1933, in Orocovis, Puerto Rico he was a son of the late Alberto and Esperanza (Morciglio) Martinez. On February 5th in 1985 he married Maria Dolores "Lola" (Jacquez) Martinez who died March 24, 2004.

In 1973 he graduated from the Catholic University of Puerto Rico with additional studies at Perdue University. He was employed for the Commonwealth Oil Refinery in Penuelas, Puerto Rico. After moving to California he was employed as a Social worker at Los Angeles County Welfare Department in Los Angeles, until his retirement. He enjoyed making paper sculpture airplanes, singing, excelled as a sharpshooter, was an avid reader and historian.

Surviving are two daughters: Margarita Martinez-Keyzer-Andre, of Dayton OH, and Mildred Martinez-Caballer of FLA, a one son, Miguel A. Martinez of El Paso TX, three sisters: Alcira Martinez of Pasadena CA, Nora L. Kearns of Bradford, and Ines Thacker of Jamestown, NY nine grandchildren (Vanessa, Alexandra, Kathiria, Mori, Michael, Adrian, Michael, Jennifer and David) and nine great grandchildren (Timmy, Jordan, Natalie, Elizabeth, Anthony, Benjamin, Ava, Mason and Noah), and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one brother, and one sister.

Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am on Tuesday, June 8th in St. Bernard Church with Rev. Leo Gallina, pastor, as Celebrant. Burial will be in Angelus Rosedale Cemetery in Los Angeles CA. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc. Memorial contributions if desired may be made to American Heart Association 823 Filmore Ave. Erie, PA 16505.

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

Gas Well Blowout Under Control-DEP PromisesThorough Investigation

Marcellus Shale Well Blowout in Clearfield County Controlled

EOG Resources Well Released Fracking Fluid, Natural Gas for 16 Hours

HARRISBURG -- Department of Environmental Protection Secretary John Hanger said today that his agency intends to investigate aggressively the circumstances surrounding a blowout at a Marcellus Shale natural gas well in Lawrence Township, Clearfield County, and take the appropriate enforcement action.

At approximately 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 3, the operators of the well, which is owned by EOG Resources, Inc., lost control of it while preparing to extract gas after hydrofracturing the shale. As a result, the well released natural gas and flowback frack fluid onto the ground and 75 feet into the air. The well was eventually capped around noon on June 4.

“The event at the well site could have been a catastrophic incident that endangered life and property,” said Hanger. “This was not a minor accident, but a serious incident that will be fully investigated by this agency with the appropriate and necessary actions taken quickly.

“When we arrived on scene, natural gas and frack fluid was flowing off the well pad and heading toward tributaries to Little Laurel Run and gas was shooting into the sky, creating a significant fire hazard. That’s why emergency responders acted quickly to cut off electric service to the area.

“Right now, we’re focused on limiting any further environmental damage, but once that work is complete, we plan to aggressively look at this situation and see where things went wrong and what enforcement action is necessary. If mistakes were made, we will be certain to take steps to prevent similar errors from happening again.”

DEP learned of the leak at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Friday after it was informed by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. DEP immediately dispatched its Emergency Response and Oil and Gas program staff to the site.

PEMA, which elevated its activation level to coordinate resources among multiple state agencies, also worked with PennDOT to initiate an airspace restriction above the well, which the Federal Aviation Administration authorized on a temporary basis earlier today. The restriction prohibits flights at and below 1,000 feet of ground level within a three nautical mile radius of the well site. The restriction is in effect until further notice.

The EOG well pad is located in a rural area near the Penfield/Route 153 exit of Interstate 80 in northwestern Clearfield County. Three other wells on the same pad that have been drilled and fractured remain plugged and are not in danger.

EOG Resources, formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Co., operates approximately 265 active wells in Pennsylvania, 117 of which are in the Marcellus Shale formation.

For more information, call visit www.depweb.state.pa.us.

Area Agency on Aging will again administer the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

Potter County Human Services Area Agency on Aging will again administer the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program which is through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program provides eligible senior citizens with checks to use at approved farmers markets to purchase qualifying fresh fruits and vegetables through November 30, 2010. The checks will be distributed June 14th through September 30, 2010, at Potter County Senior Centers and the Potter County Human Services AAA.

Select fruits and vegetables approved for purchase must be grown or growable in Pennsylvania. Some of the produce that qualifies under the program includes beans, berries, corn, cucumbers, peppers, squash, tomatoes, watermelon, apples, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, grapes, onions, potatoes, pumpkins and zucchini. No citrus fruits or tropical fruits are eligible under the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. Processed foods, such as jam, honey, cider and baked goods are also ineligible to be purchased through this program.

Potter County senior citizens, age sixty or older, whose income is $20,036 or less for a single person or $26,955 or less for a couple, or $33,874 or less for 3 people or $40,793 or less for four people are eligible for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. Income is based on the total income for 2009. These guidelines are subject to change. The federal guidelines that are in place the day of distribution will be those that are used. Proof of income is not required. However, the senior citizen must sign a register verifying that their income meets the income guidelines. You must show proof of age and address. Driver’s license will work for proof of both. They will be issued four (4), $5.00 checks.

IN ORDER FOR AN INDIVIDUAL TO PICKUP CHECKS FOR ANOTHER INDIVIDUAL, YOU MUST PICKUP A PROXY FORM THAT IS TO BE COMPLETED BY BOTH INDIVIDUALS AND THEN RETURNED TO THE DISTRIBUTION SPOT. THIS IS ALSO THE PROCEDURE FOR HUSBAND/WIFE AND WIFE/HUSBAND. ALL DISTRIBUTION SITES HAVE THESE FORMS AVAILABLE NOW.

Seniors who reside in nursing homes, personal care homes or other residential facilities where meals are provided are not eligible for this program.

Vendors that are approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for this program display a sign indicating that the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program checks are accepted. A list of local farmers markets can be obtained at check distribution sites.



According to the Potter County Area Agency on Aging, this is a very beneficial program that will benefit eligible seniors in Potter County by providing fresh, nutritious home grown produce. This program also benefits the farmers who raise these items. It is hoped that seniors will take full advantage of this program.” If you know anyone who is eligible, please have them contact us at the numbers below.

Senior citizens will be able to sign up for the Farmers Market Nutrition Program checks at the following locations:

ULYSSES SENIOR CENTER MON - WED
ULYSSES COMM. BLDG 9 A.M. – 2 P.M
MAIN STREET
ULYSSES, PA 16948
848-9880

OSWAYO VALLEY SENIOR CENTER MON - WED
OSWAYO STREET 1 P.M. – 3 P.M.
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA 16748
697-7178

GALETON SENIOR CENTER WED - FRI
ST. BIBIANA PARISH HALL 9 A.M. – 1 P.M.
111 GERMANIA STREET
GALETON, PA 16922
435-2864

COUDERSPORT SENIOR CENTER WED - FRI
1004 SOUTH MAIN STREET 10 A.M. – 2 P.M.
COUDERSPORT, PA 16915
274-7887


POTTER COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES AAA
62 NORTH STREET
ROULETTE, PA 16746
814-544-7315 or 1-800-800-2560
ASK FOR BARB KIEL – APPT. ONLY

For more information, please contact Barb Kiel, Potter County Area Agency on Aging, at 544-7315 or 1-800-800-2560.

The deadline to apply for a Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) project grant approaching

Have a public art project that needs funding?

The deadline to apply for a Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts (PPA) project grant is fast approaching.

PPA project grants are open to non-profit organizations and individuals conducting public arts projects between September 1, 2010 and August 31, 2011. Past projects have included songwriter series, festivals, summer concert series, art camps and public art installations. The grants are for up to $3000. Applications must be post-marked no later than June 18.

To read or download the PPA grant guidelines please visit: www.pacouncilonthearts.org/project_stream.cfm.

Window Broken In Wharton Township Building

Criminal Mischief
Unknown actor(s) broke a second floor window on a building owned by Michael T. Thierfelder, of 33 W. Indian Lane, Norristown, PA, located on Cemetery Road in Wharton Township between May 10 and May 31, 2010.

The building is the former East Fork Township building. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Coudersport at 814-274-8690. Trooper James Culvey is the investigator.

Galeton Woman Has Insufficient Funds

Theft-Bad Checks
Troopers charged Colleen Marie Kibbe, 22, of Galeton, PA with Theft -- Bad Checks. She issued a check with insufficient funds for a purchase from a business owned by Penny Polz in Ulysses, PA.

Charges are pending in District Court 55-4-03.

Fish & Boat Commission Seeks Nominees for Awards

Fish & Boat Commission Seeks Nominees for Awards

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is seeking nominees for three awards through June 18, 2010.

The Ralph W. Abele Conservation Heritage Award is the highest recognition the Commission can confer on persons who distinguish themselves in the cause of conservation. The Commission established the Abele Award to recognize citizens of Pennsylvania who have made outstanding contributions to the protection, conservation, and enhancement of the aquatic resources of the Commonwealth. The award serves as a memorial to Ralph Abele for his steadfast and courageous work in protecting and conserving our natural resources.

The Commissioner Paul J. Mahon Access for All Award recognizes the efforts of Mr. Mahon to ensure accessibility to the Commonwealth’s waterways for all individuals interested in fishing and boating, regardless of physical ability. The award is intended to acknowledge Pennsylvania citizens or organizations who have made outstanding contributions, above and beyond legal requirements, to improving fishing and boat access for the disabled.

The Stanley Long Outstanding Volunteer Service Award Program was created in 2003 to publicize and recognize the contributions made to Pennsylvania anglers and boaters by Commission volunteers. The program identifies and honors the Commission’s most exemplary and inspiring volunteer. Although volunteers are best characterized as unsung heroes, their tireless efforts and voluminous contributions augment and ensure public safety and provide services to countless Commonwealth anglers and boaters. The award serves as a memorial to long-time volunteer Stanley Long.

To learn more about the awards and to nominate deserving individuals, please visit http://fishandboat.com/award.htm. For more information about fishing and boating in Pennsylvania, please visit www.fishandboat.com.

Troopers Say Edinboro Woman Was DUI

An Edinboro, PA woman was not hurt last Sunday in Portage Township when she backed her 2001 Oldsmobile into a ditch and hit an embankment on Route 872 at it's intersection with State Street.

Jan G. Abramoski, 24, of Edinboro, PA, became stuck in the ditch, but was pulled out prior to arrival of State Police. Her car sustained minor damage.

During the investigation by troopers, it was determined that Anramoski was operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. She ws arrested for DUI. Charges will be filed in District Court 55-3-01.

Smith Gets $1,000. Scholarship

* Pictured is Galeton BPW President Alison Welfling (left) presenting Emily Smith (right) with Scholarship Award

GALETON BPW AWARDS SCHOLARSHIP

A banquet was held Thursday, May 27th to honor Galeton Business and Professional Women's Club Scholarship winner Emily Smith who will be attending Mansfield University and plans to be an English and Literature major.

The scholarship of $1000.00 is from the Galeton BPW Elinor A. Martin Education Fund which has several fundraisers each year including the Garden Tour /Plant Sale and Holly Trail Christmas House Tour.

This year's Garden Tour/Plant Sale will be held on Sunday, June 27 from 1 - 5 pm. Advance ticket prices are $8.00, $10.00 on the day of the event.

Tickets will be on sale at Galeton Drug, Hearts Desire, or by calling Barbara Welfling at (814) 435-6616.

Story & photo by Maxine Harrison

PITT-BRADFORD OFFERS 10-HOUR OSHA GENERAL INDUSTRY TRAINING COURSE

PITT-BRADFORD OFFERS 10-HOUR OSHA GENERAL INDUSTRY TRAINING COURSE

BRADFORD, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s Outreach Services will hold a 10-hour general industry training course on recognizing and preventing hazards for entry-level industry workers in the oil and gas industry scheduled for June 24 and 25.

The course will be held on the Pitt-Bradford campus in Swarts Hall Room 162 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. each day. The cost is $99 per person and includes handouts and a light lunch.

This in-depth, two-day Occupational Safety and Health Administration training seminar will cover various safety and health hazards that a worker may encounter. After successfully completing the course, students will receive OSHA completion cards. Many oil and gas companies require workers to have this minimum level of certification.

“OSHA General Industry Certification is a valuable tool for anyone’s resume,” said Mike Hackett, Pitt-Bradford workforce training coordinator. “Most oil and gas companies require a safety certification and this fits many of their requirements. This certification is also important for many other industries.”

For more information or reservations, contact Outreach Services at (814)362-5078 or reach@pitt.edu.

Gas Well Ruptured In Frack Process--Out Of Control

Marcellus Shale Gas Well Rupture Forces Evacuation

Pa. Officials Say Water, Gas Leaking From Clearfield Co. Well

Pittsburgh Channel

CLEARFIELD, Pa. -- Natural gas and drilling fluids are spewing from an out-of-control well in Clearfield County.Emergency officials said a mile-wide area has been evacuated after an operation drilling into the Marcellus Shale ruptured on Friday.The FAA has issued a flight restriction in the immediate area.According to a news release from the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, a well which was in the frack process ruptured in Clearfield, spilling frack water and unignited wet gas. More...

http://www.wjactv.com/tu/5QePVugpB.html Breaking News From WJACTV

Bradford Man Indicted For Theft Of Smokes

Man Accused of Stealing Cigarettes

A Bradford man accused of breaking into a truck loaded with cigarettes has been indicted by a Cattaraugus County Grand Jury.

27-year-old Phillip Haight is accused of using bolt cutters to break into a truck owned by Al Harris Associates in Salamanca. The value of the cigarettes is more than $4,100, according to the District Attorney's office.

Haight is charged with third-degree burglary, third-degree grand larceny and possession of burglar’s tools.

Posted by Anne at 1490 NewsBlog

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL!

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL!

Children ages 4-12 are invited to enjoy Fellowship, Friends, Fun on THE JESUS EXPEDITION - Exploring the Miracles of Jesus!

June 13-16th -- 6:30-8pm. at the SPOT, 3 Miles East of Coudersport, on Rte. 6

Sponsored by Coudersport Free Methodist Church.

Contact info: Church 814.274.7350, or Rhonda Morley 814.274.8566

Former Bradford Police Chief Gets ARD

WESB NEWSRADIO--Close Accepted into ARD Program

Former Bradford City Police chief Mike Close was accepted into the ARD program Thursday in McKean County Court after being charged with assaulting his girlfriend back on March 14. State Deputy Attorney General Todd Goodwin says that Close's girlfriend Amy Baker suffered only minor injuries, and the state okayed the judges move to put Close in the ARD program. Close retired as city police chief on March 17.

Joseph A. Tanner Sr., 82, of Biggins Road, Eldred, PA

ELDRED — Joseph A. Tanner Sr., 82, of Biggins Road, died Thursday (June 3, 2010) at Hamot Medical Center in Erie following a brief illness. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Frame Funeral Home, Eldred.

Beverly S. Bryant, 74, of 238 Elm Street, Westfield, PA

Beverly S. Bryant, 74, of 238 Elm Street, Westfield, PA, passed away Tuesday, June 1, 2010, at Broad Acres Nursing Home, Wellsboro, PA.

She was born May 23, 1936 in Corning, NY, the daughter of Harold and Agnes Nelson Swayne.

She owned and operated a grocery store in Westfield, PA with her husband, Charles, for many years. Beverly was a member of the Eastern Star, the Westfield United Methodist Church and Wellsboro Moose Lodge #1147.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Charles; daughters, Debra (Louis) Pascale of Middlebury Center, PA, Lisa (Martin) Wood of Little Marsh, PA; grandchildren, Matthew Pascale of Winter Spring, FL, Angelina Pascale of Denver, CO, Martina Wood of Little Marsh, PA; sister, Dorothy (Drexel) Earl of Westfield, PA; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to call at the Kenyon Funeral Home Inc., 222 West Main Street, Westfield, PA, Saturday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., where funeral services will be conducted Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Certified Lay Minister Ellen Bartholomew will officiate. Burial in Middlebury Union Cemetery, Middlebury Twp., PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Westfield Public Library, the Westfield United Methodist Church Youth Center and the Keeneyville United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall fund.

Fatal Truck Crash In Mansfield

Beech Creek Trucker Dies In Crash At Mansfield
Lock Haven Express

MANSFIELD - David J. Wian, 54, of Beech Creek, died early Thursday morning in a Tioga County crash.

Wian was the driver of a rig hauling sand used in the hydrofracturing process for the natural gas industry when the accident occurred at about 12:20 a.m. on Route 15.

The northbound rig traveled across the median, both southbound lanes and the Route 6 on-ramp before going down at embankment and landing upright, Mansfield Borough police said. More...

Weeikend Programs At Sinnemahoning State Park

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Interpretive Pontoon Boat Tours

Join the park naturalist for a relaxing and informative 45 minute tour of the George B. Stevenson Reservoir. This program focuses on the plants and wildlife of wetlands habitats. The pontoon boat has 18 available seats. Advance reservations are recommended and may be made by calling the park office at 814-647-8401. You may also sign up until noon at the park office or at the Eagle Watch Station near boat launch area up until the time of departure. Rides begin at noon, 1:30p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Meet at the Boat Launch Area.

For more information on this and other programs, contact the park office at 814-647-8401
.
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks: (888) PA-PARKS (voice), (888) 537-7294 (TTY), (717) 558-2711 (local or international TTY), (800) 654-5984 (PA AT&T Relay Service). With at least three days notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs. For more information visit our web site at www.dcnr.state.pa.us

Little League Softball Double Header

Little League Softball Double Header

Monday, June 7th

In Austin

Port II vs Coudy II

Game 1 Begins at 5:30 pm

Game 2 immediately afterwards "under the lights"

ABA Concession Stand will be open

McDonald's Recalls Movie Themed Drinking Glasses Due to Potential Cadmium Risk

McDonald's Recalls Movie Themed Drinking Glasses Due to Potential Cadmium Risk (Fri, 04 Jun 2010 12:30:00 GMT) The designs on the glasses contain cadmium. Long term exposure to cadmium can cause adverse health effects.

Gray Tabby Cat Missing In Shinglehouse

Good Morning Jim,

I'm missing my male tabby cat. I live in Shinglehouse in the apartments on West Academy Street. He got out of my Apartment last night around 6:30 pm. He is a gray tabby and his name is Thomas. Please help me find my cat, my number is 697-7372.

Thank-You,
Marsha Ostrander

Fraudulent Purchase Made On Man's Credit Card

State Police are investigating a case of identity theft.

Jamie VanHorn, 32, of 5976 Gardeau Road, Port Allegany, PA, reported that on 5-30-10 at 9:11 pm, a fraudulent purchase was made on his credit card account at a store in Great Britain, UK.

Eulalia Township Couple Act Out --Get Charges

In a Domestic Violence/Harassment Incident on Wednesday at 11:30pm, a 48 year old female poured alcohol on a 52 year old male and the male pushed her to the ground and poured soda on the woman at an undisclosed location in Eulalia Township.

Troopers are charging both individuals with Harassment.

Roulette Woman To Be Charged With DUI After Traffic Stop

A Roulette woman was stopped early Thursday morning by troopers at the intersection of Route 6 and Rt. 44 in the Boro of Coudersport when they noted multiple traffic violations.

After stopping April Marie Stuckey, 44, of 9 Creekside Drive, Roulette, PA, in a 1999 Ford Explorer, at 2:06 am, State Police determined that she was driving under the influence of alcohol.

She was arrested for DUI and transported to Charles Cole Memorial Hospital for chemical blood testing. Stuckey will be charged with Driving Under The Influence and numerous summary traffic violations in District Judge Annette L. Easton's courtroom.

Earthquake Rattles York, Cumberland Counties

4,200 Gallons Of Fracking Brine Was Headed Toward Creek

Brine Tanker Hazmat Crash Updated

Coudersport Assistant Chief Phelps IC has updated the story on the brine tanker rollover.

Coudersport Vol. Fire Department was dispatched @ 11:19 am with first units arriving on scene @ 11:31 am. The ten wheel tanker truck was on it's passenger side in the Northbound ditch leaking it's contents of 4,200 gallons of fracking brine.

Firefighters went to work diking and damming of the ditch and small wet area off of Peet Brook Rd. prior to Peet Brook Creek, a tributary to the Allegany River.

The driver of the tanker refused treatment at the scene.

Due to the amount of product being spilled more man power was requested from, 37 Genesee, 20 Harrison Twp, 47 Ulysses and the following: Coudersport Vol Amb., DEP, PSP Cdspt., Potter Co. DES, Allegany Twp Supervisors., PennDot., Pa Fish/Boat along with personnel from EAST Resources and their cleanup Haz Mat Crew and Portville Truck/hazmat clean up crews.

At just after 1300 hrs the spill was full contained and EAST Resources had a vacuum truck and excavating equipment on scene for clean up. DEP evaluated the containment and clean up and remained on scene.

Command released all other fire, EMS, Hazmat crews at 1430 hrs. with a rescue unit and patrol from 48 Cdspt. remaining on scene throughout the cleanup for safety/precautionary measure, and traffic control.

All units were placed in quarters @ 1830 hrs. with approx. 55-60 personnel on scene with no injuries. All agencies worked very well together in making a successful outcome. Traffic was detoured or delayed for short periods of time while putting the truck back on it's wheels.

Potter County Commissioners Meet Thursday, June 3, 2010

The Potter County Commissioners met on June 3, 2010.
Click on the links below to see the complete reports.

• Minutes Of Potter County Commissioners Meeting--May 20, 2010...
• Agenda--Potter CountyCommissioners--June 3, 2010

Route 219/Bradford Bypass Project Update for Week of June 7

Route 219/Bradford Bypass Project Update for Week of June 7

Clearfield – PennDOT issues the following travel update for the Route 219/Bradford Bypass project in McKean County. This update is for the week of June 7. All work is weather and schedule dependent. Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. of State College is the contractor on this $28 million job.

• Work on the Route 219 southbound ON-ramp at Elm Street continues. Traffic is using the existing shoulder. Contractor crew will be working close to the roadway, placing concrete for a new barrier wall. Expect delays during work hours.
• Northbound traffic is sharing a lane with southbound traffic, separated by temporary concrete barrier from Mill Street to north of Hillside Drive.
• Northbound ramps at Foster Brook Interchange are closed. Traffic is to follow the posted detours.
• The Tuna Valley Trail access at Bolivar Drive is closed due to bridgework. Trail access is still available at Crook Farms and Seward Avenue side of Tuna Crossroads.
• Northbound access at Kendall Avenue remains open.
• Access at Hillside Drive is restricted from Route 219 south to Hillside Drive and from Hillside Drive to Route 219 south. Traffic is to follow the posted detours.
• Bolivar Drive/State Route 346 is restricted to eastbound traffic only. Route 346 westbound under Route 219 is closed. Westbound traffic is to follow the posted detour.
• The contractor continues to excavate existing roadway, place sub-base, and perform bridge repairs.
• Drivers should use extra caution while entering the construction area from the on-ramp areas. Watch for slow moving and stopped vehicles through the entire work zone and obey posted speed limits.

Coudy Searches For Coach

MELARO: Coudy back searching for another coach

Olean Times Herald

Two years ago, when long-time Coudersport High School football coach Paul Simcoe decided to step down, Falcon fans had to wonder what life would be like with the Big 30’s all-time winningest coach no longer calling the shots from the sideline. More...

NEW SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

NEW SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM BENEFITS CHILDREN OF ACTIVE DUTY MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES WHO DIED IN THE LINE OF DUTY

BRADFORD, Pa. – A new law has expanded the benefits of the Post-9/11 GI Bill to include children of active duty members of the Armed Forces who have died in the line of duty.

To qualify, students must be at least 18 years old.

“The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship extends the benefits of the GI Bill to the children of those active duty soldiers, sailors and airmen who gave their lives in the line of duty after Sept. 11, 2001,” said James Baldwin, assistant dean of academic affairs and director of enrollment services at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. “It honors those brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.”

Eligible children attending post-secondary institutions may receive up to the highest public, in-state undergraduate tuition and fees, plus a monthly living stipend and book allowance.

Eligible children are entitled to 36 months of benefits and have 15 years to use the benefits following their 18th birthdays. The benefits can be applied to either undergraduate or graduate coursework.

The Veterans Administration began accepting applications for the benefit May 1 and will begin issuing payments to eligible children by Aug. 1.

In addition, Baldwin noted that the law is retroactive to the beginning of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which became effective Aug. 1, 2009. That means that students whose parent died in the line of duty can apply to receive the benefit for the 2009-10 school year as well as the 2010-11 school year.

Pitt-Bradford was named to the G.I. Jobs’ 2010 list of Military Friendly Schools and is a participant in the Yellow Ribbon program, which fills the gap between an out-of-state veteran’s tuition and the in-state amount, which is covered by the G.I. Bill.

For more information on any of these programs, call the toll-free number 1-888-442-4551, visit the VA GI Bill website at www.gibill.va.gov or contact Baldwin at jlb20@pitt.edu or (814)362-7602.

Donald 'Butch' Barner Wilt Jr., 62, of Bradford, PA

Donald 'Butch' Barner Wilt Jr., 62, of Bradford, passed away Thursday, May 27th, 2010 at his residence.

Born April 15, 1948 in Muncy, he was a son of the late Donald B. and Frances Dolores (Maietta) Wilt.

He graduated with honors from St. Bonaventure University in 1994.

He enlisted in the U.S. Marines in 1966 and served in the Vietnam Conflict. He was a career military man, and was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1992.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Gideons, The McKean County Rifle Club and The National Rifle Association. He was an amateur photographer and a member of the Olean Photography Club.

He is survived by a daughter, Andrea Dawn Wilt of Gaithersburg, MD and four sisters.

Friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 4 PM Sunday, June 6, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Dennis Swineford, Pastor, officiating. Private burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

Memorials, if desired, can be made to the Disabled American Veterans, or to the charity of the donor's choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.

Online condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

William O. Burdick, 88, of Smethport, PA

Smethport - William O. Burdick, 88, of Smethport, died Thursday (June 3, 2010) at his home in Smethport.

He was born June 19, 1921 in Smethport, a son of Luey and Edna Arnold Burdick. On July 28, 1946, in Smethport, PA, he married Alva Bernard, who survives.

Mr. Burdick was a graduate of Smethport High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and served as a Sgt. with Co. A 551st Engineer Battlalion in the European Theater, spanning Germany, France, and Belgium. Mr. Burdick was awarded a Purple Heart for his injuries in service. He had served from 1942 to 1945.

Mr. Burdick had worked as an electrician for the Smethport Borough for 20 years, was a self employed electrician for 8 years, and he and his wife owned and operated the Smethport Motel from 1975 to 1993, at which time, they retired.

He was a member of St Luke's Episcopal Church, Smethport, a lifetime member of the Smethport Fire Dept., the Smethport Country Club, the American Legion Bucktail Post #138, Smethport, and the VFW Post #2497 of Smethport. More than anything, Mr. Burdick loved his family, friends, and country. He loved playing golf, watching the Buffalo Bills, NASCAR, and greeting his friends and family with the phrase,”Glad to have you aboard-let’s have a noggin”

In addition to his wife, he is survived by
two daughters: Nancy (Walt) Mackey of Bradford, PA, Rebecca (Robert) Funk of Smethport, PA
one son: Robert (Donna) Burdick of Smethport, PA
6 Grandchildren: Sr. Mst. Sgt. David (Kristin) Mackey of Beaver Creek, OH; Joseph Mackey, Bradford; Jennifer (Michael) Vercillo, McKean, PA; James (Heather) Funk, Smethport; Jill (Branden) Labecki, Lower Burrell, PA and Pamela Burdick, Smethport; 5 great grandchildren
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Margaret Boswick.

Visitation will be held on Friday from 6-8 P.M. at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport, PA, where funeral and committal services will be held on Saturday, June 5, at 10 A.M., with the Rev. Max Simms, pastor of the Hilltop Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Smethport. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion; Bucktail Post #138, Smethport, at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the American Legion Bucktail Post #138, or a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

Proliferation Of State & Federal Regulations Cheats Residents Of Smaller Counties

Potter County Commissioners Want Changes

By James Jones
Editor-Publisher
Solomon's words

Potter County Commissioners Susan Kefover and Paul Heimel held a news conference on Wednesday at Potter County Human Services in Roulette, gathering members of the press, the commissioners, and the heads of the Human Services Departments, in an effort to bring attention to the mountains of regulations and paperwork involved in delivering services to Potter County residents.

Potter County Human Services Director, Jim Kockler, described how many funding streams have to be returned to the state unused because of the list of requirements that must be met for their use. The regulations are "one size fits all" and certainly not tailored to smaller counties like Potter. While one set of funds must be returned because we can't meet the requirements, other programs that we need funds for go begging for money to provide needed services.

Kockler said the counties are better able to decide where funds should be used to provide the programs locally.

Commissioner Kefover, sat at a desk with piles of regulations towering over her, while she described the problems and suggested solutions they'd like our legislators and state and federal officials to implement, or at least consider.

Commissioner Heimel argued that in a small county like Potter, just reading and understanding the regulations takes 50% of the administrator's time, where in larger counties the regulations are spread out to more administrators, who may only have to spend 5% of their time to read the regs for the areas they direct.

Heads of each of the Human Services Departments also spoke on how the flood of regulations affects the time that their departments are able to devote to providing actual services to the county's residents.

Counties are mandated to provide services, but the quantity and quality of those services is restricted by overzealous regulation from Harrisburg and Washington, effective cheating county residents of intended benefits.

The Commissioners stressed that if something is not done, taxes will have to be raised in small counties to hire more employees just to do the paperwork and keep current on the regulations that continue to be propagated from the state and federal sources.

Here is the statement issued by the Potter County Commissioners:

Webster's Dictionary describes bureaucracy as a "system of administration marked by officialism, red tape, and proliferation." Very few people would disagree that some form of oversight and regulatory compliance is needed in the distribution of funding and programs from the federal and state government.

Legislators already handle an avalanche of bills and rarely see the final product of the law after the "regs" are added.

But we do.

The local agencies, organizations, and governments are drowning in red tape. The banks of common sense have been removed, and bureaucracy is flooding the land.

Local government agencies are in a crisis because of the bureaucratic overflow of regulation and paperwork. The goal of providing services to constituents has been derailed by the time and money required to learn the ever-changing regulatory processes.

Staff are traveling, taking on line seminars, and learning of the growing addendum to their workload. The Human Services Administrator estimates one half of his time is spent with regulations.

Before you are piled regulations governing the deliver of human services programs. This is one facet of county government.. .. one stream of help. It is difficult to provide assistance carrying this much of a load on one's back. This mountain of reporting requires additional staff and time, less efficiency in the delivery of services, and help that is delivered with restrictions that can suffocate a provider.

Staff become discouraged.

Many people who work in social service and health care entered the fields to make a difference in the well-being of others. It is grievous to discover that a significant amount of one's time is spent filing reports, learning new regs, and trying to stay out of trouble with the bureaucrats, not interacting with people who need care.

Shouldn't the goal be simple, clear, concise, straight-forward language?

The opposite is the norm. Regulations are wordy, vague, and a maze of instructions. Staff become paralyzed in making decisions. Afraid of breaking some reg, permission to act is requested from higher levels. But everyone is faced with the same challenge of facing accountability to a mountain of regs, so nothing happens.

Experts in each funding stream only know their specific field. A three-inch binder of regs may seem manageable. But when ten other funding streams are added with their policies, the stack is overwhelming.

Do we dare mention the 63,000 pages of IRS code, the binders of Medicare regulations, the stringent building codes, environmental checklists, archaeological surveys, labor guidelines, food and drug laws, occupancy permits, rules for small business, health care providers, commerce, banking, etc. that govern our society.

All started as good ideas.

But after regulatory requirements were added, the good intentions are lost in detailed and "what if' wordiness that scramble the best of minds. To try to regulate every situation which may occur between now and eternity cannot be done.

To react to every local crisis by adopting policies that now cover the nation seems like the wrong response.

A few simple solutions are proposed:

• Streamline and simplify regulatory language.
• Give more local discretion and flexibility in decision making.
• Invite legislators and federal and state bureaucrats to the front lines to see how their policies actually appear on the desks of those who must enact them.
• Allow a differentiation between city and rural needs.

The job of providing services will be done quicker, cheaper, and more appropriately fitting the need.

While the commissioners realize that their efforts are like a stone thrown into a large lake, they feel that they are obligated to Potter County residents to attempt to bring attention to the problem in Harrisburg and Washington, and hope someone there is willing to listen.

2 Car Accident Reported In Coudersport Boro

2 Cars--No Injuries
At 11:47 am on Thursday, a 2 vehicle accident was reported in front of Northwest Bank in Coudersport Boro. There are no injuries there.

Tanker Truck Rolled On Peet Brook Road

Tanker Rolled On It's Side--Drilling Brine Spills
At 11:20 am on Thursday, Coudersport Dept. 48 was dispatched to a report of a tanker truck on it's side just off Route 49 on Peet Brook Road in Allegany Township.

According to a report from Pennsylvania State Police, Timothy M. Hewitt, 41 of 314 Bolivar Drive in Bradford, PA, was driving a tanker hauling drilling brine waste east on Route 49 when he turned left into Peet Brook Road. A combination of the tanker's speed and the shifting load caused the vehicle to tip over, coming to rest on the passenger side of the vehicle, on Peet Brook Road, Just north of Rt. 49. Hewitt was apparently not injured and refused treatment.

Coudersport Volunteer Fire Dept. responded to the scene, along with Coudersport Volunteer Ambulance. They assisted with traffic control and containing and cleaning the brine that spilled from the tanker.

East Resources, Inc, the drilling company that Hewitt was driving for also had a clean up crew respond to the scene.

Portville Truck was dispatched to this scene with towing equipment.

Ulysses Dept. 47 was dispatched mutual aid to the scene of this accident with an engine & crew and fire police.

Harrison Valley Dept. 20 was dispatched to the scene of the crash for a Hazmat incident. Roulette was dispatched to cover Coudersport Station.

Man Lifeflighted After Car Crash On Sartwell Creek Road

Photo shows emergency personnel loading patient from car crash into a medical helicopter at Charles Cole Hospital's helicopter pad at noon on Thursday.

Car Crash On Sartwell Creek Injures Man

A Coudersport man was seriously injured in a 10:00 am crash on Sartwell Creek Road in Roulette Township.

Dennis M. Pesock, 49, of 26 Spruce Street, Coudersport, PA, was traveling south on Sartwell Creek Road when he traveled off the roadway along the western edge of the road, leaving about 70 feet of tire tracks in the grass before impacting a tree at the 12 O'clock position.

At 10:10 am on Thursday, Roulette Dept. 46 was dispatched for an accident, 2 miles up Sartwell Creek Road from Route 6. The male driver was entrapped in the vehicle, with the vehicle hanging in a precarious position according to a State Police dispatch.

A Roulette Fire Policeman reported one person injured with the vehicle down over an embankment, and requested a medical helicopter be airborne.

Port Allegany Chief 3 arrived on scene. Dept 3 was also dispatched to this crash. Ambulance 46-7 arrived on scene at 10:23. Tioga County advised that they were unable to find a helicopter to fly due to weather.

At 10:40, Smethport Dept. 2 was dispatched for rescue, Station 3 for manpower to help extricate a male patient from the wreckage. Station 2 was subsequently diverted to Port Allegany Station for standby.

At 10:45, Tioga dispatch reported they have found a helicopter to go airborne to Charles Cole Hospital.

At 10:48, Pesock was extricated from the vehicle through the passenger side window and transported by ambulance to Charles Cole Memorial Hospital and the waiting medical helicopter. Troopers said he was flown to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA. The Sartwell Creek Command was terminated at 11:43 am.

Family has left an injury report in comments and asks for your prayers.

Gustin's Auto & Truck Service Does PA Inspections For Cars & Trucks

Class A CDL Driver Wanted--40 Hour Week--Home At Night

Cherry Springs State Park To Be Recognized Today In 2 PM Ceremony

Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation Visits Cherry Springs State Parks Today

Harrisburg, PA- The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF) will be visiting Cherry Springs State Park Thursday, June 3, 2010 to celebrate the park system being nationally recognized with a Gold Medal Award as well-managed, innovative and for its leadership in connecting people to nature.

The highest honor for a park system, the award comes from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association. The parks will be recognized in a ceremony at Cherry Springs State Park on Thursday, June 3, 2010, at 2:00 pm. More...

Man Fired Shotgun Through Wall As Troopers Entered Trailer

Lafayette Township Man Jailed After Shooting

Kane State Police have released details of a domestic situation that escalated into a shooting incident at the Tack's Inn Trailer Court on Route 59 in Lafayette Township, McKean County on Monday between 4:00 pm and 5:17 pm.

Troopers responded to the Tack's Inn Trailer Park for a report of a DOMESTIC IN PROGRESS.

The victims, Stacey Byerly, 37, and James Fries, 18, of Lewis Run, PA had gone to a neighboring trailer to report the incident. Byerly had received a minor injury in an altercation with Michael Blair prior to reporting the incident. Fries was not injured.

The defendant, Michael Blair, Jr., 39, of Lewis Run, PA, fled the scene in a truck prior to police arrival.

While interviewing Byerly and Fries at the neighboring trailer, Michael Blair, Jr. returned to the scene and telephoned Byerly's cell phone and threatened to shoot himself.

Kane Troopers Scott Nelson and Daniel Woods proceeded to Blair's trailer and upon entering the door, Blair fired a shot into the bedroom wall from a 20 gauge shotgun.

The shot penetrated the wall into the living room, but was stopped by a computer monitor.

The two troopers took Michael Blair, Jr. into custody immediately after the shot was fired.

Blair was charged with 4 counts of SIMPLE ASSAULT; 3 counts of RECKLESSLY ENDANGERING ANOTHER PERSON; UNAUTHORIZED USE OF AN AUTOMOBILE; HARASSMENT; DUI; and summary traffic violations of CARELESS DRIVING; and DRIVING WHILE LICENSE WAS DUI SUSPENDED.

Blair was arraigned by on call District Judge Cercone and was remanded to McKean County Jail in lieu of bail.

Tanner Owen Drake Makes His Debut At Charles Cole Hospital

TANNER OWEN DRAKE made his appearance at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital on May 31, 2010.

He is the son of Darla Carpenter and Todd Drake of Galeton, PA. He weighed in at 6 lbs 13 1/2 ounces. He joins a brother, Levi Carpenter, age 7.

Maternal Grandparents are Mike and Jackie Ling, Reading, PA.

Maternal Great-Grandparents are Bill and Gerry Ling, Herford, PA; Sandra Landis, Reading, PA; and Rich Johnson, Wernersville, PA.

Paternal Grandparents are Ray and Sandra Osgood, Sabinsville, PA; and Larry and Jackie Drake, Galeton, PA.

Paternal Great-Grandparents are Cliff and Elsie McCleaft, Shinglehouse, PA.; and Fordyce Easton, Westfield, PA

Cops: Annin Township Woman Made False Reports

As a result of an incident on March 9, 2010, State Police have charged an Annin Township woman with making False Reports To Law Enforcement Authorities.

Catlin Ann Miles, 19, of 454 Dolly Brook Road, Port Allegany, PA, made claims to the Pennsylvania State Police that a known subject was stalking her, and stole her camera, taking several pictures of her on it.

She claimed that he then entered her home with out her knowledge, took pictures of her there, and left the camera on her bed.

The allegations were proven false.

A criminal complaint was filed before District Judge William Todd, charging Miles with 2 counts of FALSE REPORTS TO LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES and one count of FALSE ALARM TO AGENCIES OF PUBLIC SAFETY.