At 9:52 PM on Saturday, Roulette Ambulance & Medic 6 dispatched to Cow Hollow Road for a person choking.
RECALLED
Fire Hall Rental Update
3 hours ago
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Roulette Ambulance To Cow Hollow Road
Vehicle-Pedestrian Accident In Elkland
| 12/21/2013 | 4:53 PM | MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT | S BUFFALO ST | ELKLAND BORO |
Radio communications were scratchy, but it sounds like a woman was dragged under her own car in this incident. The victim, reported to be a 70 year old woman, was transported to Arnot Ogden Hospital by ambulance.
The Silver Creek Disaster Team advises to be aware creek levels are close to flood stage. Prepare for possible evacuation.
...This is an ACTUAL FLASH FLOOD WATCH ALERT...
Issued By: Chautauqua County Emergency Management
Affected Jurisdictions: Chautauqua County
The Silver Creek Disaster Team advises to be aware creek levels are close to flood stage. Prepare for possible evacuation. We will post updates as they become available.
Safely monitor the situation.
Coudersport Ambulance And Med 6 Dispatched To Sweden Valley Manor
At 3:40 PM on Saturday Coudersport Ambulance and Med 6 dispatched to Sweden Valley Manor for a medical emergency.
Kevin J. McAndrew, 61, of Bradford, PA
Kevin J. McAndrew, 61, of Bradford, PA passed away, December 20, 2013, at the Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Born September 23, 1952, in Bradford, he was son of the late Vincent and Myrtle (Showers) McAndrew.
On October 23, 1984 in Bradford, he married Bonnie Sue (Pascarella) McAndrew, who died on July 12, 2009.
Mr. McAndrew was a 1971 graduate of Bradford High School. He was a Truck driver for many years.
Surviving are two daughters, Gina Knowlton, and Shawna Baker, and one son, Sean Powers, three sisters, Sandra Spehar, Colleen Burton, and Kathy Mangus, three brothers, Terry McAndrew, Brian McAndrew, and Colin McAndrew, seven grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
At the request of the family there will be no visitation. Arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
BINGO AT ROULETTE FIREHALL HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22
BINGO AT ROULETTE FIREHALL HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22.
BINGO WILL RESUME SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THE YEAR AND MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
BINGO WILL RESUME SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THE YEAR AND MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
Debunking the Myth of LGBT Discrimination
The Salvation Army
For years, Facebook posts, forwarded emails and rumors have been leading some people to believe that The Salvation Army does not serve members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community. These accusations simply aren't true.
Since its founding nearly 150 years ago, The Salvation Army has lived out its mission: To meet human needs in His name, without discrimination. People who come to the Army for assistance will be served according to their need and our capacity to help - regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation.
Some Internet postings originate in remarks made in a radio interview by Australian Major Andrew Craibe reported by the Truth Wins Out organization. It is emphatically noted that Major Craibe's comments do not reflect the views, policies, beliefs, or teachings of The Salvation Army anywhere in the world at any time in history.
We acknowledge that because of our size and scope, occasionally one of our millions of employees and volunteers might say or do something that does not reflect our values. We address these incidents as soon as they arise.
The Salvation Army believes that all people are equal, regardless of sexual orientation or any other factor, including race, gender and ethnicity.
The People We Serve
Each year, thanks to generous donations, The Salvation Army serves nearly 30 million Americans - or one person every second - from a variety of backgrounds. People who come to us for assistance will be served according to their need and our capacity to help - regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation.
Read more...
...FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT THROUGH SUNDAY AFTERNOON...
WARREN-MCKEAN-ELK-
1121 AM EST SAT DEC 21 2013
...FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT THROUGH SUNDAY AFTERNOON...
THE FLOOD WATCH CONTINUES FOR
* A PORTION OF NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA...INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING
AREAS...ELK...MCKEAN AND WARREN COUNTIES.
* THROUGH SUNDAY AFTERNOON.
* FORECAST HEAVY RAINFALL IN EXCESS OF 2 INCHES...COMBINED WITH
SNOW MELT WILL SUPPORT THE POTENTIAL FOR FLOODING ACROSS
NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA AND THE ALLEGHENY BASIN. THE HEAVIEST
RAINFALL IS PROJECTED FROM LATE TONIGHT INTO EARLY SUNDAY.
* CONFIDENCE IS INCREASING FOR SOME RIVER AND STREAM LEVELS TO
EXCEED FLOOD STAGE IN THE ALLEGHENY BASIN...APPROACHING
MODERATE TO EVEN MAJOR FLOOD LEVELS. FLOODING MAY CAUSE ROAD
CLOSURES ESPECIALLY IN LOW-LYING AND POOR DRAINAGE AREAS....
The National Weather Service in State College has expanded the
* Flood Watch to include a portion of northern Pennsylvania...
including the following areas... Cameron... Potter and Tioga
counties.
* Through Sunday afternoon.
* Forecast heavy rainfall in excess of 2 inches... combined with
snow melt will support the potential for flooding across the
area. The heaviest rainfall is projected from late tonight into
early Sunday.
* The potential exists for some river and stream levels to exceed
flood stage. Flooding may cause Road closures especially in low-
lying and poor drainage areas.
READ MORE...
PA Gas Drilling Permit Issued
PA Gas Drilling Permit Issued in Jones Twp Township
Gas permit issued on 2013-12-16 00:00:00 to SENECA RESOURCES CORP for site SRC WT 2329 16H 50694 in Jones Twp township, Elk countyTags: PADEP, frack, permit, drilling, Gas
Modification Of Regulations To Remove Scrutiny Of Pipeline Permits Is In Comment Period
A Year End Present to the Fracking Industry?
Quite Likely.
A message from Stephen Kunz, Senior Ecologist at Schmid & Company, Inc.
As Posted by Responsible Drilling Alliance
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) is proposing to modify and reissue Chapter 105 General Permit 8, as published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin on November 2, 2013. Public comments on this proposal are being accepted until January 10, 2014.
This one is really important, so please take the time to submit comments.
The proposed GP-8 would allow, without technical review, virtually unlimited impacts to wetlands and streams from "temporary" activities, defined as up to two years, that currently need an Individual Permit, things like large-capacity (24-inch inside diameter) pipelines carrying "pollutional materials," which is undefined, but presumably includes fracking and flowback fluids.
As you may know, projects relying on Chapter 105 General Permits like this receive virtually no review by the PADEP. Indeed, it actually is a "registration" process rather than an approval process. If a project sponsor believes his proposed work meets the requirements of a General Permit, he simply registers to use it--on the "honor system"--and the PADEP returns a simple "acknowledgment" that the registration was received. No oversight, no public review, and GP registrations are no longer published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
The proposed modification of GP-8 seems to be a veiled attempt to create an umbrella General Permit that can authorize virtually unlimited impacts to wetlands and streams from a wide range of activities primarily associated with oil and gas operations, although of course it is not framed that way.
I have already prepared and submitted my comments which I shared with the Citizens Advisory Council at their meeting in Harrisburg last month. I am encouraging others to prepare comments, too. Feel free to modify or tailor my comments for your own use, and to circulate them as widely as possible.
Given the timing of the public comment period for this GP-8 rule change--at the end of the year when most people are busy with Holiday activities--I assume PADEP is doing its best to keep this one under the radar, and to give a nice present to the folks in the fracking industry.
Remember, you have until January 10, 2014 to submit your comments.
Comments can be emailed to: RA-GP8Comments@pa.gov
or mailed to:
Kenneth Murin, Chief
Division of Wetlands, Encroachments, and Training
PADEP Bureau of Waterways Engineering and Wetlands
P.O. Box 8460
Harrisburg, PA 17105-8460
Editor's note: Mr. Kunz's message was edited for for this article.
Rogue Agency Ruining the Roost
Rogue Agency Ruining the Roost
by Bill Belitskus
Allegheny Defense Project Board President
The Allegheny Forest Service continues to operate as a rogue forest within the National Forest System, subservient to the oil and gas and timber industries and their congressional and PA state legislature cronies. While the Allegheny National Forest is under assault from conventional oil and gas drilling and unconventional shale gas extraction, the Forest Service is ramping up its commercial "even age" clearcut logging projects, continuing to promote black cherry tree farming for its high monetary “value” without considering the cumulative impacts with oil and gas drilling and industrial logging on climate, air quality, water quality, soils, species, wildlife habitat and remote recreation. Outdoor tourism and recreation is second only to agriculture in providing meaningful employment in PA, jobs that will last as long as the forest remains standing and the streams flow clean and free.
The Forest Service is operating under the unfinished, illegal, 2007 forest plan:
• The Forest Service is relying on old monitoring and evaluation reports from as far back as 1998. Even more egregious is the Forest Service’s reliance on oil and gas industry produced reports that deny any damage is taking place and have never been released to the public for comment. The Forest Service is refusing to complete the yearly monitoring and evaluation reports required by the 2007 plan, intended to “ensure that long-term productivity of the land is maintained or improved.”
• The Forest Service has not “produced and distributed to the public” any monitoring and evaluation reports on implementation of the 2007 Forest Plan on time. The Fiscal Year 2008 report was not produced and distributed to the public until April, 2013, approximately four years late and only after the Allegheny Defense Project filed a Freedom of Information Request (FOIA) demanding the completed reports. The Forest Service, saying that it “intends” to produce additional monitoring and evaluation reports that it was required to produce years ago, satisfies neither the law nor the Forest Plan. Moreover, we have no assurance that the Forest Service will produce the additional reports in a timely fashion.
• The Forest Service has yet to identify, inventory and protect habitat for the synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) while at the same time ignoring oil and gas drilling development and proposing commercial logging projects in known areas of their habitat. In 2011, Allegheny Defense Project discovered and documented synchronous fireflies in the Allegheny, a rare species found only in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. One other species of firefly that displays synchronous characteristics can be found in the remote mountain forests of Southeast Asia (Pteroptyx malaccae). These amazing creatures are a significant tourist attraction in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and we are working with researchers, local communities, and businesses to bring this sustainable eco-tourism opportunity to the Allegheny region.
• The Forest Service did not recognize oil and gas drilling as a significant issue in the 2007 Forest Plan and failed to create the necessary standards and guidelines required to mitigate the cumulative impacts of industrial logging, oil and gas drilling and unconventional shale gas extraction.
• The 2007 Forest Plan did not consider the wide-ranging impacts of shale gas development on newly listed endangered mussel species. Nor did it consider the impacts of shale gas development on the species that were listed as threatened and endangered at the time the plan was signed. In 2012, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) added three additional mussel species (the rayed bean, snuffbox, and sheepnose) to the endangered species list in addition to the already listed clubshell and northern riffleshell. All five species have existing populations in the Allegheny River. The USFWS recently stated that one of the threats to these species is the recent increase in unconventional shale gas development.
• The Forest Service must amend or revise the current Forest Plan to protect the lands along the Allegheny River corridor from new road and pipeline construction, well site development, and other impacts associated with oil and gas drilling that fragment forested habitats and increase erosion and sedimentation of streams and rivers.
• The Forest Service needs to recognize the dramatic increase in Marcellus shale gas drilling and reasonably foreseeable gas drilling into the Utica and other shale formations as a significant change in the conditions or demands in the area covered by the Forest Plan.
• The Forest Service needs to amend the Allegheny Forest Plan or scrap the entire flawed plan. The Forest Service is held captive by its task masters, the oil and gas and timber industries and their congressional and PA state legislature cronies. It acquiesced its duty and authority to protect the Allegheny’s forested watersheds from extractive industries when it stated in the 2007 Forest Plan that,
“As a result [of oil and gas drilling], those seeking a more remote and less developed recreation experience could be displaced to other state or national forests where remote, semi-primitive settings and experiences are more readily available.” (Allegheny Forest Plan FEIS 2007)
Grant workshops for recreation and conservation projects slated for February
Grant workshops for recreation and conservation projects slated for February
These workshops will provide information to potential applicants on DCNR grants available for public recreation and conservation projects. The next grant period opens January 15, 2014 and ends on April 16, 2014. Locations and dates are:
Feb. 5, Camp Hill (Prosser Hall, Camp Hill Borough Building)
Feb. 6, Conshohocken (Fire Academy, Montgomery County Public Safety Training Campus)
Feb. 19, Nanticoke (Educational Conference Center, Luzerne County Community College)
Feb. 20, Boalsburg (Pennsylvania Military Museum)
Feb. 25, Wexford (Pine Township Recreation Center)
Feb. 26, Clarion (Clarion Holiday Inn)
The workshops will provide in-depth information on projects eligible for DCNR’s grant funds, how to develop a competitive “ready-to-go” application, eligible applicants, and matching fund requirements. Participants will also receive guidance and updates on the eGrants application process and have an opportunity to interact with Bureau staff. Community leaders, municipal officials, consultants, land trusts, board members, trail managers, and park and recreation professionals are encouraged to attend.
Preregistration is required. Click on the individual workshop event that you would like to attend and then scroll down to the bottom of the page to register. For additional information, email BRC's Linda Manning.
The Best kind of Christmas
The Best kind of Christmas
Lacy Kitelinger surprised her father Friday morning Dec. 20th as he worked in the maintenance department at Kane Hardwood.Lacy is home on a 10 leave, she is an E3 base in Monterey Ca. and is studying at the defensive institute majoring in the Farsi language.
Photos and information by Phil Williams
Early Morning Genesee Accident Victim Lifeflighted
| 12/21/2013 | 8:08 AM | MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT | ROUTE 244/ 449 |
The accident victim was transported by Genesee ambulance and Wellsville 700 Medic to a landing zone in Wellsville. Life Net 7-7 transported to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA. Further information pending information release by Pennsylvania State Police.
Shinglehouse Responds To Overnight Structure Fire
12/21/2013 1:10 AM FIRE / STRUCTURE 1019 E HONEOYE ST SHINGLEHOUSE BORO
Shinglehouse Fire Dept. responded to a report of a structure fire in a mobile home at 1:10 AM on Saturday morning. Shinglehouse chief arrived on scene and held response to one engine with the fire reported out at 1:59 AM and everyone returning to the hall at 2:12 AM.
* FLOOD WARNING FOR THE CONEWANGO CREEK AT RUSSELL, PA
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN STATE COLLEGE, PA HAS ISSUED A
* FLOOD WARNING FOR
THE CONEWANGO CREEK AT RUSSELL, PA BETWEEN WARREN & JAMESTOWN
* FROM LATE SUNDAY NIGHT UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
* AT 4 AM SATURDAY THE STAGE WAS...5.7 FEET.
* FLOOD STAGE IS 9.0 FEET.
* MINOR FLOODING IS FORECAST.
* THE CONEWANGO CREEK AT RUSSELL IS FORECAST TO RISE ABOVE FLOOD
STAGE BY MONDAY MORNING AND APPROACH MODERATE TO MAJOR FLOOD STAGE
BETWEEN 10.0 AND 10.5 FEET BY EARLY TUESDAY MORNING.
* AT 10.0 FEET...A NUMBER OF HOMES ON THE RIGHT, OR WEST BANK ARE
AFFECTED. THE ROADWAY ON THE LEFT BANK IS ALSO AFFECTED.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for McKean, Elk, and Warren County.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Roulette Ambulance To Lyman Road
At 11:13 PM on Friday, Roulette Ambulance & Medic 6 have been dispatched to Lyman Road for a medical emergency.
Toomey Endorses Corbett
Toomey Endorses Corbett
Erie Times-News
U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey has endorsed Gov. Tom Corbett and Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley for a second term.
The Corbett-Cawley team announced the endorsement today. All three are Republicans.
In a statement about his endorsement, Toomey, R-Pa., said they ”recognize the importance of preserving the fiscal health of our commonwealth for future generations. Read more...
Homestead Exemption Reduces School Taxes
Homestead Exemption Reduces School Taxes
December 19th, 2013
Potter
County homeowners who qualify for the “homestead exemption” receive a
credit on their school taxes, reflecting a discount for
owner-occupied homes. School districts are reimbursed from money the
state receives from licensed gambling establishments.Austin Area School District homeowners had a reduction of $314 in 2013. In Coudersport, the tax cut was $174. Tax credits in Galeton were $212; Oswayo Valley, $139, Northern Potter, $197; and Port Allegany, $203; Keystone, $224.
Many homeowners in local school districts have not applied for the homestead exemption since the program was introduced. Those who may qualify and are not enrolled may receive another notice/application by mail early next year. They have until March 1, 2014, to apply for the reduction on their 2014-15 school tax bills. An application form is available on the county website, pottercountypa.net (click on Departments and Assessment/Tax). Those who are already registered do not need to reapply. Future tax reductions will fluctuate, based on the amount of revenue the state derives from gambling operations.
School tax bills are mailed out in July. Taxpayers will receive a two-percent discount if they pay their bill by Sept. 30. A penalty is applied to payments made after Nov. 30.
Recalls
Hawaii Firm Recalls Frozen, Raw Chicken Products Due To Possible Temperature Abuse
Palama
Holdings, LLC, a Kapolei, HI establishment, is recalling approximately
3,600 pounds of raw, frozen marinated chicken products because they may
have experienced temperature abuse in the distribution chain.
Traffic Crash On Broad Street In Ridgway
TRAFFIC ACCIDENT/INJURIES
Address: 102 N BROAD ST
City: RIDGWAY_B
Cross Streets: ALLENHURST AVE * ERIE AVE
Agency: RIDGWAY AMBULANCE
12/20/2013 6:30:51 PM
Fully Involved Vehicle Fire With Injuries In Johnsonburg
VEHICLE FIRE-VEHICLE
Address: 214 HICKORY ST
City: JOHNSBURG
Cross Streets: CUSHING AVE * WILLOW ST
Vehicle reported inside a structure. Possibly 3 burned patients.
Agency: ELK COMPANY 2 FD; ST. MARYS AMBULANCE
12/20/2013 6:12:25 PM
6:26 pm--REQUEST HELICOPTER AIRBORNE TO HOSPITAL LZ
RIDGWAY AMBULANCE DISPATCHED TO SCENE
Helicopters were unable to fly due to weather, victims were initially taken to St. Marys Medical Center and then transported to West Penn Burn Center by St. Marys Ambulances.
LIVE SCANNER
C&N Donates To Christmas House
C&N Donates To Christmas House
 |
| Volunteers from The Christmas House receive a donation from the C&N Coudersport Office and C&N Trust and Financial Management Group. From left, Billie Jo Hilfiger and Joe Kilmer from Trust; Nola Gross, Coudersport Community Office Manager; Justin Krellner, Trust and Jane Metzger, Judy Mottershead and Georgia Merrick, Christmas House Volunteers. |
The Christmas House serves residents of Potter County. The charity provides toys for needy children, shoes and clothing and helps pay utility bills for families in need. The Christmas House operates a food pantry and helps families whose homes have been damaged or destroyed by fire.
The C&N Coudersport office collects funds for The Christmas House each year. The C&N Trust and Financial Management Group’s contribution was one of five made by the Group as its holiday gift to its clients. Contributions are made to non-profit organizations in each region the Group serves.
Citizens & Northern Bank is a local, independent community bank providing complete financial, investment and insurance services through 26 full service offices throughout Cameron, Potter, McKean, Tioga, Bradford, Sullivan and Lycoming counties in Pennsylvania and in Canisteo and Hornell, NY in Steuben County. C&N can be found on the worldwide web at www.cnbankpa.com. The Company’s stock is listed on NASDAQ Capital Market Securities under the symbol CZNC.
Alice J. Kenealy, 94, of Coudersport, PA
Alice J. Kenealy, 94, of Coudersport, PA died Thursday, December19, 2013 at Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport.
Born September 15, 1919 in Coudersport, she was the daughter of Harold and Joyce Matteson Jones. Alice first married Milton Fayette Dates on April 4, 1938 in Wellsville, NY and he preceded her in death December 23, 1957, she later married Lawrence C. Kenealy on February 4, 1967 in Coudersport, he preceded her in death June 6, 1994.
Alice was a lifetime resident of Coudersport area and a Coudersport High School graduate, class of 1937. She had worked for many local businesses, Brownhill-Kramer Hosiery Mill, Coudersport Market Basket, the former First National Bank of Coudersport and L.H. Lincoln and Sons.
She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Coudersport and member of Presbyterian women where she served as President and Treasurer. Alice was also a member of the Central Grange of Sweden Valley and the Potter County Historical Society.
Surviving are her daughters, Patricia (Larry “Corky”) St. Clair of Olean, NY, Jacqueline Brewer of Coneville, PA, Joyce (William) Gerhartz of Penfield, NY and Marietta Raybuck of Dubois, PA, step-daughter, Karla (Dave) Groat of Sunbury, PA step-son, Lawrence Clark (Caroline) Kenealy of Spearman, TX, 21 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, 9 great-great-grandchildren, brother, Jack Jones and sister Jean Tate both of Coudersport.
She was preceded in death by her parents and husbands, step-daughter, Karen Kenealy Green and great-grandson Dana Debot.
Alice’s life celebration will be held Monday, December 23, 2013 with a receiving of friends from 12-1pm at the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 North East St., Coudersport, PA. Funeral services to follow at 1pm with Rev. Evon Lloyd officiating. Burial will be in the Woodland Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 402 North Main St., Coudersport, PA 16915 or Potter County Historical Society, P.O. Box 605, Coudersport, PA.
Arrangements by Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, Ltd., a “Life Celebration Home”.
To share your fondest memories of Alice visit www.lifecelebration.com.
Coudersport Mayor Wick Furman Retiring After 16 Years On The Job
Mayor Fredrick "Wick" Furman left and incoming Mayor Brenda Whitman.
Outgoing Mayor "Wick" Furman serves incoming Mayor Brenda Whitman a slice
of his retiring cake, that was presented to him at his last Borough
Council meeting. "Wick" wished Whitman the best and told the Borough
Council and all in attendance that it was an honor and a privilege to
serve as Mayor for the past 16 years.
Officer Bill Wenzel left and Chief Lee Gross Right presented the Mayor
with a chiming clock at the Mayors last Council meeting on Dec. 18th 2013.
Mayor Furman spoke of some of the accomplishments of his career and
thanked all the Police, Council, and Solicitor Dan Glassmire for their
help over the years.
Katie McGinty Calls For Real Medicaid Expansion, Says CorbettCare is a Present for Private Insurers
#PAGov: Katie McGinty Calls For Real Medicaid Expansion, Says CorbettCare is a Present for Private Insurers
From my inbox:
Katie McGinty, Democratic candidate for Governor of Pennsylvania, today called Tom Corbett’s HealthyPA plan a present for private insurance companies and a poison pill for the state’s neediest residents, especially those living in Allegheny County.
Nearly 100,000 residents lack health insurance in Allegheny County, which ranks second in the state for the number of uninsured.
The Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare was in Pittsburgh on Friday for the second in its series of statewide hearings seeking public comment on Corbett’s plan. By rejecting Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act and instead pursuing his own costly, complicated HealthyPA plan, Corbett has delayed coverage for 500,000 low-income working Pennsylvanians for at least a year.
“Tom Corbett’s HealthyPA plan not only demonstrates his poor leadership, but it also shows just how out of touch he is with regular Pennsylvanians and the struggles they face daily,” McGinty said.
“Tom Corbett opposes the Affordable Care Act as a federal intrusion that unnecessarily expands the role of government. Yet, he proposes a plan that includes more waiver requests than any other state in the nation. Those waivers would create a bureaucratic nightmare for the state agency that must administer his plan.
“Tom Corbett wants to deny health-care coverage to uninsured Pennsylvanians who are unemployed or struggling in low-wage jobs that don’t provide benefits. Maybe he forgets there are few jobs to be had in a state economy that he has driven into the ground. Pennsylvania ranks 43rd in the nation in job creation under Tom Corbett’s failed leadership.
“Tom Corbett wants poor people to pay copayments and premiums to big, private insurance companies — the only ones who really stand to gain anything from HealthyPA. The same people he wants to charge for insurance are the same people right now who are trying to decide whether to pay for heat or buy prescriptions. In other words, there will be times when they will have to decide between paying for health insurance and paying for rent or putting put food on the tables. That’s not quality, accessible care.”
Expanding Medicaid would bring billions of dollars into Pennsylvania. Numerous studies have shown the federal aid would not only cover hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians, but it would also boost economic activity, support job creation and generate real savings for state government.
McGinty said no one should be fooled by Corbett’s claim that HealthyPA is a serious attempt to expand health care. Even as other governors acted, Corbett has stood fast to rigid ideology. As attorney general, Corbett worked aggressively to overturn the Affordable Care Act, trying hard to deny Pennsylvanians the chance to get insurance even if they have a pre-existing condition, or from having peace of mind that they won’t lose insurance if an illness worsens.
Katie McGinty, Democratic candidate for Governor of Pennsylvania, today called Tom Corbett’s HealthyPA plan a present for private insurance companies and a poison pill for the state’s neediest residents, especially those living in Allegheny County.
Nearly 100,000 residents lack health insurance in Allegheny County, which ranks second in the state for the number of uninsured.
The Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare was in Pittsburgh on Friday for the second in its series of statewide hearings seeking public comment on Corbett’s plan. By rejecting Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act and instead pursuing his own costly, complicated HealthyPA plan, Corbett has delayed coverage for 500,000 low-income working Pennsylvanians for at least a year.
“Tom Corbett’s HealthyPA plan not only demonstrates his poor leadership, but it also shows just how out of touch he is with regular Pennsylvanians and the struggles they face daily,” McGinty said.
“Tom Corbett opposes the Affordable Care Act as a federal intrusion that unnecessarily expands the role of government. Yet, he proposes a plan that includes more waiver requests than any other state in the nation. Those waivers would create a bureaucratic nightmare for the state agency that must administer his plan.
“Tom Corbett wants to deny health-care coverage to uninsured Pennsylvanians who are unemployed or struggling in low-wage jobs that don’t provide benefits. Maybe he forgets there are few jobs to be had in a state economy that he has driven into the ground. Pennsylvania ranks 43rd in the nation in job creation under Tom Corbett’s failed leadership.
“Tom Corbett wants poor people to pay copayments and premiums to big, private insurance companies — the only ones who really stand to gain anything from HealthyPA. The same people he wants to charge for insurance are the same people right now who are trying to decide whether to pay for heat or buy prescriptions. In other words, there will be times when they will have to decide between paying for health insurance and paying for rent or putting put food on the tables. That’s not quality, accessible care.”
Expanding Medicaid would bring billions of dollars into Pennsylvania. Numerous studies have shown the federal aid would not only cover hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians, but it would also boost economic activity, support job creation and generate real savings for state government.
McGinty said no one should be fooled by Corbett’s claim that HealthyPA is a serious attempt to expand health care. Even as other governors acted, Corbett has stood fast to rigid ideology. As attorney general, Corbett worked aggressively to overturn the Affordable Care Act, trying hard to deny Pennsylvanians the chance to get insurance even if they have a pre-existing condition, or from having peace of mind that they won’t lose insurance if an illness worsens.
Josh Kuleck the Big Winner
Josh Kuleck the Big Winner
Emporium Garden Club announces Cameron County resident Josh Kuleck took home the tailgate package! The drawing was held in conjunction with Christmas in the Wilds and included a Penn State corn hole game plus snacks and other goodies.
The Emporium Garden Club would like to thank John and Pat English for donating the game, Jan Winemiller that donated a glass blown Penn State plate, and the following businesses that donated items including Dollar General, East End Beverage, Fox’s Pizza in Emporium, Olivett’s Shur Fine, Pizza Palace Plus and Sheetz.
HILLARY STITT NAMED NEW PROGRAM MANAGER OF PITT-BRADFORD TRiO PROGRAM
HILLARY STITT NAMED NEW PROGRAM MANAGER OF PITT-BRADFORD TRiO PROGRAM
BRADFORD, Pa. -- Hillary Stitt has been promoted from retention specialist to program manager of the TRiO Student Support Services program at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
TRiO SSS is a federally funded program that supports students who may have a difficult time succeeding in college, specifically those who are first-generation students, have a disability, or meet income-eligibility guidelines.
The program provides individual academic support through one-on-one guidance, leadership development, financial literacy education, and career and graduate school planning assistance.
As program manager, Stitt will oversee the work of a retention specialist and academic advisor, both of whom are in the process of being hired following the departure of Margot Myers, former program manager, and Laura Bierbower, academic advisor.
Stitt earned her Bachelor of Science in rehabilitation services from Pennsylvania State University in 2001, and a Master of Science degree in school counseling from the University of Scranton in 2005, when she joined the Pitt-Bradford TRiO program at its inception after a successful grant application. She lives in Bradford.
“My main goal is to make sure that my students have unconditional support and know they can come to somebody for help,” she said.
TRiO serves 160 students at Pitt-Bradford.
Stitt explained that during their time in the program, students take a series of one-credit courses that help tackle subjects appropriate to their standing, such as making the transition to college, exploring majors and understanding curriculum for freshmen.
For more information on TRiO, contact Stitt at (814)362-7563 or hbh3@pitt.edu.
Holiday Open House Saturday at Sinnemahoning State Park
Holiday Open House Saturday at Sinnemahoning State Park
On Saturday, December 21, 2013 Sinnemahoning State Park will host a Holiday Open House from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Park Office and Wildlife Center located at 4843 Park Drive, just off Route 872.
The Holiday Open House presents an opportunity for the community to view the Wildlife Center all decked out in its winter splendor. Visitors can enjoy the eye-catching holiday displays created by volunteer, Pat Martin of Emporium, Grandpa Hank’s winter village donated by Debbie Calkins of Mansfield, and of course, the wildlife exhibits, completed this year. In addition, park staff will offer guided tours of the entire ground floor to highlight the energy-saving features that earned the Wildlife Center a Silver LEED rating.
Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or mulled cider while chatting with friends by the cozy fire. Light refreshments will be offered throughout the afternoon. The gift shop will be open for your last-minute gift buying needs.
All ages are welcome to attend this free event. Please join us for the festivities!
For more information about programs and events at Sinnemahoning State Park, contact Kim Lott, Environmental Education Specialist, at 814-647-8401 ext. 106 or by email at SinnemahoningSP@pa.gov. Online, visit Sinnemahoning-State-Park on Facebook or view the PA State Park calendar of events at www.visitPAparks.com .
If you need an accommodation to participate in PA State Park activities due to a disability, please contact the park you plan to visit. With at least three days notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs.
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| Park volunteer, Pat Martin of Emporium, adds a finishing touch to the 9 foot holiday tree in the Sinnemahoning State Park Office and Wildlife Center. (Photo by Sinnemahoning State Park staff) |
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| The Wildlife Center holiday décor features a nature theme with just a touch glitter and shine, a perfect complement to the state-of-the-art wildlife exhibits. (Photo by Sinnemahoning State Park staff) |
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| The Sinnemahoning State Park Office and Wildlife Center celebrates the official start of winter with a Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 21, from 1-4 p.m. (Photo by Sinnemahoning State Park staff) |
New 2014 Officers Listed For Tri-Town Fire And Ambulance Companies
Officers for 2014 for TRI-TOWN - Ulysses
AMBULANCE
President-Alicia Freeman
Vice President-Robin Freeman
Secretary-Diane Erway
Treasurer- Mary Jane Haskins
Delegate for Potter County EMS Council-Cliff Wood
Chief 47-60-Krystle Newhard
FIRE DEPARTMENT
President-Cliff Wood
Vice President-Robin Freeman
Secretary-Krystle Newhard
Treasurer-Fay Wood
Chief 47-Michael Hager
Chief 47-10 - Roy Hunt
Chief 47-20- Luke Lampman
Chief 47-30 - Ken Wingo
Fire Police Chief- Fay Wood
Delegate for Potter County EMS Council- Michael Hager
Alternate for Potter County EMS Council-Robin Freeman
3 year trustee-John Freeman
CHOLERA CANCELS SOME PHEASANT RELEASES
Quarantined birds will not be released.
The 2,400 pheasants placed under quarantine following detection of avian cholera at a Pennsylvania game farm will not be released for late-season hunting.
Arrangements are being made to humanely depopulate and dispose of the affected flock at the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Loyalsock Game Farm.
Avian cholera is an infectious bacterial disease affecting domestic and wild birds, and is the most significant infectious disease of wild waterfowl in North America.
As noted in the Wildlife Disease Reference Library available at the Game Commission’s website, an avian cholera outbreak in Pennsylvania’s wild bird populations has never been documented. Avian cholera is diagnosed annually at about a dozen poultry and game-bird production facilities in the commonwealth, but this is the first occurrence at a Game Commission game farm in nearly a decade.
The strain diagnosed at Loyalsock Game Farm last week is considered by veterinarians to be a mild strain with relatively low levels of daily mortality. Following detection, Game Commission staff consulted animal and wildlife health experts at Penn State and elsewhere, who advised treating the infected flock with antibiotics prior to a subsequent release.
The antibiotic treatments have proven effective and daily mortality of birds has decreased to baseline levels in the flock, but given the risk that some surviving birds could remain carriers of the bacteria causing the disease, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has reconsidered its earlier decision and chosen to abandon plans to release the pheasants.
Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe said the decision was not made lightly.
The commission raises pheasants for the sole purpose of releasing them, and providing a valued small-game hunting opportunity for hunters, Roe said.
Propagation is a significant investment, funded in large part by revenues from the sale of hunting and furtaker licenses, he said. And it’s frustrating when that end product can’t be given back to hunters, he said.
“In this case, however, we felt we had to cut our losses and minimize the risk to wildlife populations,” Roe said.
Roe said even the slight chance a released bird could continue to carry the disease is a risk Game Commission staff currently is unwilling to take.
The quarantined flock will be euthanized using carbon-dioxide chambers and disposed of by deep burial on the farm.
“As always, we will be taking the appropriate biosecurity steps to ensure a clean facility,” he said.
Rodents and mammalian predators are suspected bacterium sources in this outbreak and we will be reviewing and upgrading our disease vector control protocols, as well as our other biosecurity protocols and standards.
Located northeast of Williamsport, the Loyalsock Game Farm provides pheasants for release in Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) open to either-sex pheasant hunting. The 2,400 birds placed under quarantine had been slated for release Dec. 20 in Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Clearfield, Cumberland, Franklin, Lehigh, Monroe and Montgomery counties.
Even without those pheasants, the Game Commission has surpassed its goal of releasing 200,000 pheasants statewide this year. About 218,000 birds have been released this year.
Late-season pheasant hunting opened statewide Dec. 16. Only males may be harvested in some WMUs, while other WMUs are open to hunting of male or female pheasants. For local regulations, consult the 2013-14 Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest.
Pheasant season is closed Christmas Day, but otherwise runs until Feb. 22.
For more information on wildlife diseases, visit the Wildlife Disease Reference Library at the Game Commission’s website, www.pgc.state.pa.us.
Welcoming Sadie Mae Moag Born At Cole Memorial Hospital
It’s a Girl!
Sarah Elizabeth Wahl from Whitesville, NY and Michael A. Moag from Ellisburg/Genesee, PA are pleased to announce the arrival of Sadie Mae Moag who was born on December 18th at Cole Memorial. Sadie weighed 9 lbs. and 4.3 ounces.
Maternal Grandparents: Kitrina Haskins of Whitesville, NY; William Wahl Jr. of Whitesville, NY.
Maternal
Great-Grandparents: Gerald VanCise (deceased); Lisa and Jerry Smith of
Whitesville, NY; William Wahl (deceased); Leah and Lloyd Potter of
Whitesville, NY.
Paternal Grandparents: Mike and Barb Moag of Ellisburg, PA.
DICKINSON CENTER, INC. EMPLOYEES PRESENT CHECK TO THE CHRISTMAS HOUSE
DICKINSON CENTER, INC. EMPLOYEES PRESENT CHECK TO THE CHRISTMAS HOUSE
Ridgway- Employees at Dickinson Center give back to the community through their Employee Giving Program – Helping Hands. This year, DCI employees donate to CAPSEA in Ridgway and the Christmas House in Coudersport.
Helping Hands represents the employees of Dickinson Center, Inc., working together for the future of health and human services in our community. Helping Hands is a club organized by employees to support our community and Dickinson Center’s future.
Any Dickinson employee can become a member of the Helping Hands Club. Employees determine the biweekly deduction, and decide how they would like the donation to be distributed between the three funds established with the Helping Hands Giving Club. The three funds are: Sustaining our Future Fund, Project Fund, and the Community Connection Fund.
The Sustaining our Future Fund provides funds for Dickinson Center’s sustainability investment portfolio. The Project Fund provides monetary assistance for designated projects chosen by the Project Fund committee members. Projects under this fund are broad reaching and serve the purpose of enriching the lives of our employees, consumers, and their families. This year, the Project Fund committee will be purchasing an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) for Dickinson Center’s 43 Servidea Drive location. The Community Connection Fund provides monetary and in-kind assistance for community outreach projects, services, educational programs, or other venues that promote health and well being throughout the community.
Dickinson Center, Inc. is a P.A.N.O. certified organization. It was awarded certification under the Standards for Excellence program, which is bestowed only on the most well managed and responsibly governed nonprofit organizations. To earn this distinction and status, Dickinson was required to demonstrate compliance with 55 specific Standards for Excellence based on honesty, integrity, fairness, respect, trust, responsibility and accountability. Dickinson has met, complied with, and integrated the Standards of Excellence into all its processes to successfully complete this voluntary certification.
PA Drilling Permit Violations Issued
PA Permit Violation Issued to Eqt Production Co in Horton Twp, Elk County
Environmental Health & Safety violation issued on 2013-12-12 to Eqt Production Co in Horton Twp, Elk county. OGA 3220(A) - Failure to plug the well upon abandoning it.Tags: PADEP, frack, violation, drilling
PA Permit Violation Issued to Eqt Production Co in Horton Twp, Elk County
Environmental Health & Safety violation issued on 2013-12-12 to Eqt Production Co in Horton Twp, Elk county. OGA 3220(A) - Failure to plug the well upon abandoning it.Tags: PADEP, frack, violation, drilling
Cooking for Crowds
Cooking for Crowds
Non-profit, volunteer-run groups that prepare food to be served or sold to the public must be sure that the food is safe and of high quality. Participants in this workshop will learn up-to-date methods for safely handling and preparing food for large groups. The workshop is appropriate
for non-profit food providers such as churches, fire companies, schools, and civic groups.
This class is being held on Thursday, September 12, 2013 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the PCEC’s Port Allegany office. For more information or to register, call 814-545-1333 or visit our website at www.pottercountyedcouncil.org.
Capitol Update by Rep. Martin Causer
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A flood watch is in effect in area counties
A flood watch is in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon in McKean, Warren and Elk counties in Pennsylvania, and through Sunday night in Cattaraugus, Chautauqua and Allegany counties in New York.
The National Weather Service says heavy rain, along with snow melt, will contribute to potential flooding, with excessive runoff leading to significant rises on rivers, streams and creeks across the Allegheny Basin.
In Pennsylvania the flood watch is from noon Saturday to 6 o’clock Sunday night. In New York, it’s from 4 o’clock Saturday afternoon until 10 o’clock Sunday night.
The National Weather Service says heavy rain, along with snow melt, will contribute to potential flooding, with excessive runoff leading to significant rises on rivers, streams and creeks across the Allegheny Basin.
In Pennsylvania the flood watch is from noon Saturday to 6 o’clock Sunday night. In New York, it’s from 4 o’clock Saturday afternoon until 10 o’clock Sunday night.
Deadline Friday For Homeland Security Exercise
Deadline Friday For Homeland Security Exercise
December 19th, 2013
Potter
County Department of Emergency Services is sponsoring a certified
Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program on Jan. 10 through
Jan. 12 at the Charles Cole Memorial Hospital Wellness Center. To register, contact Lucinda Greene at 274-8900, extension 506, no later than Friday, Dec. 20.
The course is being provided by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management
Agency and is free of charge to township/borough and county officials,
school district representatives, and private industry. Hours are 8 am to
5 pm. This intermediate-level training course incorporates exercise
guidance and best practices.
John Hanger praises PA Supreme Court Act 13 decision
John Hanger praises PA Supreme Court Act 13 decision
Decision restores balance between protecting communities and gas drilling
Harrisburg – John Hanger today praised the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s decision striking down some key provisions of Act 13, the law that regulates gas drilling. Hanger said that the Court’s ruling that local governments do have the ability to manage the impacts of drilling in their communities is the right ruling.
“The Court’s decision simply reaffirms that local governments can use their zoning powers to separate residential uses from industrial uses as was the case before the passage of Act 13,” said Hanger. “Now local governments can protect the health, safety and property values of their residents who reasonably expected that they would not find themselves living next to an intensely industrial activity when they purchased property in a residential zone.”
“This decision is also a direct rejection of Governor Corbett’s policy of turning over the Commonwealth to the control of the gas drillers,” said Hanger. “This governor has shown no leadership in guiding gas drilling policies because he has no independence from the gas industry. The Corbett Administration was bought and paid for by the gas industry, and the Supreme Court has now restored some balance between the drillers and the people who must live with drilling in their communities.”
“This decision helps to establish better regulation of the gas industry,” said Hanger. “But we need to restore full oversight of the industry and strengthen enforcement of our laws. In addition Pennsylvanians living in the gas fields need a Citizens Drilling Complaint Office to function as an autonomous and independent bureau with responsibility to investigate complaints related to drilling activities in the state.”
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Democratic candidate for Governor of Pennsylvania John Hanger is widely regarded as one of the most insightful and best informed progressive public policy experts in the state. Formerly a public-interest lawyer advocating on behalf of low-income families, John is nationally recognized as a leading authority on clean energy development and environmental protection. He served both Governors Casey and Rendell in key positions: first for Bob Casey as Commissioner of the Public Utilities Commission, where he successfully fought to cap electric rates to save Pennsylvania ratepayers billions and for two years as Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection in the Rendell Administration. Throughout his career in public service, John has embodied the essence of his campaign slogan "Policy first, politics second."
Company Expanding Cellphone Coverage In Potter County
Company Expanding Cellphone Coverage In Potter County
Verizon
Wireless is moving forward on its plan to erect a series of towers in
Potter County, expanding its cellphone coverage. Four more tower sites were approved at this month’s Potter County Planning Commission meeting. The one-acre lots are in Roulette Township, Germania (Abbott Township), Sunderlinville (Hector Township), and a parcel that’s split between Ulysses and Pike townships.
Verizon officials continue to assess how many towers are needed and where they should be placed for maximum coverage. Despite the challenging terrain, they believe as much as 90 percent of Potter County will have cellphone coverage when the project is completed.
Sites have already approved in Harrison, Allegany Township and Bingham townships. Each site will be a 200’ x 200’ plot upon which a lattice tower will be built, as well as a small pre-cast concrete equipment shed. Each of the sites is being leased from private landowners.
Structure Fire Reported In Johnsonburg Residence
Address: 204 BLAINE AVE
City: JOHNSBURG
Cross Streets: GRANT ST * HAYES ST
CALLER REPORTS SMOKE SHOWING IN ONE ROOM
Agency: ST MARYS AMB; ELK COMPANY 2 FD
12/20/2013 12:33:35 AM
12:39 AM--ON SCENE REPORTS SMOKE & FLAMES FROM 2ND FLOOR
12:43 AM--MUTUAL AID ENGINE FROM COMPANY 1, 4, AND 6
1:13 AM--KANE ONE ENGINE & CREW TO COVER WILCOX STATION
1:46 AM--REPORT FIRE UNDER CONTROL
LIVE SCANNER
Think About It
Making Sense in a Senseless World
by Pastor B.J. Knefley
One might wonder what kind of God would allow suffering. Or, how could a loving and merciful God allow bad things to happen to good people? While you are considering that thought, remember that it was His Son who experienced a very cruel and shameful death on a cross, at the hands of some very religious people. Even though God could have stopped this, He choose not to.
Man is made in the image of God according to the creation account of Genesis. Built into creation is a little thing called freedom and this freedom, as precious as it may be, has spoiled that image and corrupted it. This freedom was behind Adam and Eve’s choice to disobey the command of God. Sin or disobedience is, and ever will be, the parent of human misery.
Each person has three basic needs of belonging, significance and security. If anyone of these is missing, we will attempt to have them met. In our society, there are many messages that come at us through various forms of media that tell us that we are lacking in one of these three areas. Additionally, the behaviors of others can also add to the feelings of insignificance, rejection, and abandonment. Words meant or not meant, can take root in a person’s mind and when left unchecked, can develop into full-blown belief systems that do not have their basis in reality, but rather one’s perception of reality.
Dr. William Sadler, a noted psychiatrist stated, “If we truly lived a Christ centered life, half the diseases of the people in America would drop off and we would stand as a healthy nation.” I believe that means not only our physical diseases but our moral and mental ones as well. So why don’t we live Christ centered lives? The simple reason is self-will or more simply put, we choose not to. We would rather live in the “freedom” of self-pleasure and fulfillment. Sadly, as history has already shown us, freedom unrestrained leads to anarchy and lawlessness. When individuals change, society will change. Think about it.
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