BFB NEWS ARCHIVE | Current Month

Two Coudersport residents have been charged by State police with a break-in taking place on August 3, 2008 in Sharon Township. Anthony Duell, 25 and 36 year old Rand Aglira were taken to the County jail in lieu of $25,000 bail each after being arraigned before District Judge Barbara Easton on charges of burglary, theft, criminal conspiracy and criminal mischief. Authorities allege the pair forced their way int6o the Friendly Core Warehouse on Route 44 during the early morning hours two hears ago and stole a surveillance system valued at about $1000 along with a an unknown number of catalytic converters. Duell, who already has served time in jail on theft and related charges was arrested last week by state 4police making false reports to law enforcement. State police allege that Duell knowingly gave false information to Trooper James Yoder with the intent of implicating another person while being questioned on February 16, 2009. He was arraigned before District Judge Annette Easton and committed to the Potter County Jail in lieu of $5,000 bail. Police did not indicate during which investigation Duell allegedly gave the false information He also has reportedly been questioned in connection to several burglaries in the northwestern part of the county. Duell was sentenced on September 2, 2009 for two separate cases. He was ordered to spend one year on probation and pay a $200 fine for theft, receiving stolen property, criminal mischief and possessing an instrument of crime for breaking a video poker machine at the Northwoods Tavern in Coudersport. Duell admitted to state police that he had used a screwdriver to break the machine from which he stole about $30. Duell was sentenced spend 9-23-1/2 months in jail for each for theft and receiving stolen property for stealing several animal pelts last year from a Hebron Township resident. The jail terms were served consecutively. Duell also was ordered to pay a $250 fine for that crime.

Troopers locally have charged two truck drivers with violating regulations concerning commercial vehicles. Three citations totaling more than $19,000 were issued against Haas Environmental Inc. of Southampton, MJ after troopers pulled over a rig operated by Devon Beeler of Gonzales, Louisiana Thursday night at the intersection of Route 44 and 6 in Sweden Township, Potter County . Troopers allegedly found the rig which was traveling on a road posted to a 10 ton weight limit was found to be $36,000 over the legal limit. Waiter Beck, 55 of Oklahoma was stopped Friday morning on Route 6 in Sweden Township for an oversize load. Troopers allegedly found that Beck’s permit for hauling oil field equipment was inaccurate and the registration for the trailer had expired. The 2007 Kenworth tractor trailer and 2006 XL flatbed trailer were taken out of service; the oversize permit was confiscated and six citations totaling more that $8,000 were issued. The equipment is owned b KS & D Rentals of Woodward Oklahoma

Coudersport-based state police have charged Clayton Madison of Westfield with scattering rubbish for an incident occurring between August 10 and 31 along the Simonds Hill road in Hector Township. Troopers claim Clayton Madison dumped two bags of garbage on property owned by Carl Geesaman of Hummelstown.

Robert Renziehuausen, Jr. of Coudersport has been cited for speeding following a one-vehicle crassh last Thuesday afternoon on the Vader Hill Road, a half mile west of the Dutch Hill Road in Eulalia Township. Renzihausen escaped injury when his Dodge PowerRam traveled down an embankment and rolled onto its roof.

Troopers at Mansfield have cited 21 year old Rachel Gresens of Wellsboro for speeding following a one-vehicle mishap on Canoe Camp Creek Road in Richmond Township Saturday night. Gresens was headed west when her Jeep Grand Cherokee went off the road on a left hand curve, crossed to the other side, spun 180 degrees and struck a culvert before coming to rest. The driver was unhurt.

Travis Burrows, 21 of Wellsboro has been charged with DUI after his 1999 Dodge truck went off of the Shumway Hill Road when he overcorrected, causing the truck to roll over early Sunday morning.

Moderate injuries were reported a Canadian woman after the motorcycle on which she was riding hit a deer Friday afternoon on Route 449 in Genesee Township Potter County. State police said Shelley Sheppard was riding on a Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Screaming Eagle operated by Scott Weller when the whitetail bounded onto the road into their path. The bike fell onto its right side and slide several hundred feet before coming to rest. Sheppard was taken to Jones Memorial Hospital for treatment. Weller suffered minor abrasions but apparently was not transported to the hospital. Police said neither was wearing a helmet.

Both drivers and a passenger were taken to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro last Thursday following a collision on Route 287 near the Route 249 intersection in Middlebury Township. Troopers said the collision occurred when 19 year old Ciera Bennett of Tioga made a left hand turn in front of a car driven by Roger Wilson, also of Tioga. A passenger in Wilson’s car, Billie Wilson suffered moderate injuries while both drivers received minor injuries.

Rebekah Potter, 28, of Roulette escaped injury Saturday afternoon when her Ford Tempo went into a ditch and struck a tree after she overcorrected when the car went off the road. She’s being cited for careless driving.

Harassment charges have been filed against 26 year old Justin Tubbs of Harrison Valley following an argument on the morning of August 5. Troopers claim Tubbs shoved Kenneth Mesler, also of Harrison Valley during a disagreement on West Main Street in that town.

Coudersport-based state police have cited 69yer old Ray Card of Oak Lane, Roulette with failing to control/confine his dog. Authorities claim Card’s canine attacked a neighboring dog owned by Amger Lawson of Ash Lane.

Thieves took two granite headstone markers from the Germania Cemetery sometime over the past two months. The markers belonged to Milford Lovett, Jr. of Parish, NY and are valued at $2,890. A .380 CAL. Cobra semi automatic handgun belonging to Philip Tomb from his residence on Academy Street in Ulysses on August 18. The gun has silver and black handles. Thieves stole $65 from a vehicle owned by Daniel Carpenter Saturday night or Sunday morning while it was parked at his home on Second Street. Anyone with information about any of these incidents is asked to call the Coudersport Barracks at 814-274-8690.

Melissa A. Merrick, 56, of Coudersport, PA died Sunday, September 5, 2010 at Buffalo (NY) General Hospital following a brief illness.

Born on November 8, 1953 in Coudersport she was the daughter of Edwin S. “Stub” and Sally Ann Von Nieda Metzger. On August 4, 1979 in Coudersport she married John S. Merrick who survives.

Melissa was a lifelong resident of Coudersport and was a graduate of Coudersport High School. She owned and operated the Credit Bureau for many years and she was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, American Legion Potter Post 192 Ladies Auxiliary, and the Coudersport Golf Club.

In addition to her husband she is survived by her mother, Sally Metzger of Coudersport, PA, her daughter, Taylor Merrick of Coudersport, PA, one brother, Bret Metzger and his wife, Teri, of Coudersport, PA, one sister, Marty Maiuro of Coudersport, PA and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, who died on October 10, 1989 and a brother, George S. “Butch” Metzger, who died on October 31, 1989.

There will be no visitation. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service to be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at the American Legion Potter Post 192 in Coudersport. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Woodland Cemetery at Five Corners. Memorial contributions in Melissa’s memory may be made to Coudersport Sports Boosters, 698 Dwight Street, Coudersport, PA 16915, or to the Coudersport Golf Club, 839 Cherry Springs Road, PO Box 446, Coudersport, PA 16915, or to the Coudersport Public Library, 502 Park Avenue, Coudersport, PA 16915. Arrangements are under the direction of the Fickinger Funeral Home of Coudersport.

Hazel A. Bez, 86, of Coudersport, went to be with her Lord on Wednesday, September 1, 2010 in Magee Women’s Hospital of UPMC, Pittsburgh, due to complications of surgery.

Born March 23, 1924 in Coudersport, she was a daughter of Dotto and Sadie Hayes Kaple. On September 14, 1946 in St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Coudersport, she married Edward L. Bez, who survives.

Mrs. Bez was a graduate of Coudersport High School. She was a lifelong resident of Coudersport. She was employed as a quality control inspector at the former Pure Carbon Company in Coudersport until her retirement in 1989.

She was a member of the Coudersport Alliance Church where she served as a deaconess for many years. She was a member of the Coudersport Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and a member of the Susquehanna Trail Club. Mrs. Bez loved gardening, flowers, cooking, canning, and crafts. Her greatest love was her family and serving her Lord.

Surviving besides her husband are a son, Dr. Edward L. Bez of High Springs, Florida; two daughters, Joline J. (Robert) Huren of Las Vegas, Nevada and Laurie A. (James) Mitchell of Eldersburg, Maryland; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Bez was predeceased by four brothers and four sisters.

Friends may call on Thursday, September 9, 2010 from 7 to 9 p.m. and on Friday, September 10, 2010 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Coudersport Alliance Church, 1 Alliance Ave, Coudersport and on Saturday, September 11, 2010 from noon to 1:00 p.m. at which time funeral services will be held with The Rev. Bernie Knefley, pastor, and The Rev. Robert Kaple, of the Haskell Church of Cuba, NY, Mrs. Bez’s nephew, officiating. Committal services and burial will be held in the Summit Cemetery, Coudersport.

Flowers are gratefully declined and will be provided by the family. Memorials in Hazel’s memory may be made to McKee Family House, 233 McKee Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.

A cold front moving across the state will bring slightly cooler temperatures and keep Hurricane Earl from impacting Pennsylvania. However the category 2 hurricane left hundreds in North Carolina without electricity overnight and reached Virginia early this morning. Hurricane warnings are in effect for the north east as Earl makes his way up the east coast but we should not realize any effects from Earl in the Black Forest Service area.

PennDOT and the PA DUI Association Demonstrate Ignition Interlock to Kick off the Labor Day Holiday Weekend

State and local police will be out in full force this Labor Day Weekend in an effort to make it as safe as possible. They’ll be on the lookout especially for drunk and aggressive drivers and speeders and will be checking motorists for use of seatbelts and child Safety Seats. In a related note, representatives from PennDOT, the PA DUI Association, and the Clearfield County DUI Task Force, along with Clearfield County District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr., gathered Thursday at Automart in Clearfield to demonstrate an ignition interlock device. The demonstration was held in conjunction with the start of the Labor Day holiday weekend, which runs from Friday, September 3, at 6 p.m. until Monday, September 6, at midnight. According to PennDOT crash statistics, the Labor Day holiday is the fourth highest of the year for alcohol-related crashes. Ignition interlock devices like the one demonstrated yesterday are required for motorists who wish to drive after their second or subsequent driving under the influence offense in a 10-year period. The interlock requires the driver to blow into a tube before starting his or her vehicle. The interlock will not allow a vehicle to start if the driver has consumed alcohol. Additionally, the driver is tested at random intervals while the vehicle is in operation. Currently, more than 5,700 Pennsylvania residents have the interlock installed on their vehicles. In 2009,according to PennDot, more than 47,000 attempts to drive while impaired were stopped in Pennsylvania due to the interlock device. Last year 453 people were killed in Pennsylvania in drinking driver crashes. Of those fatalities, 20 occurred in the nine-county region that makes up PennDOT’s District 2.

For more information on ignition interlock and impaired driving enforcement, visit www.DriveSafePA.org.

A Covington teenager received minor injuries in a rear-end collision occurring Thursday afternoon on Route 15 in Richmond Township, Tioga County. State police said 18year old Amanda McCullough failed to stop her northbound Subaru Legacy and allowed it to run into the back of a Ford F-150 driven by Kendel Snyder of Millerton which had stopped on the highway. McCullough suffered minor injuries while Snyder was unhurt.

Mansfield-based state police have charged 25 year old Jayson Bever of Wellsboro with DUI after pulling him over early this morning on Route 15 a half mile north of the boat launch exit in Richmond Township. Troopers said they stopped Bever for various traffic violations and while talking to him determined he was driving under the influence of alcohol.

Troopers at the Coudersport barracks are continuing their investigation into a scattering of rubbish incident. Unknown persons dumped two bags of garbage on private property along Simonds Hill Road in Hector Township over the past three weeks. The land is owned by Carl Geesaman of Hummelstown, PA.

Potter County Now Has An Emergency Services Operations and Training Coordinator

The Potter County Commissioners during their August 26 meeting, hired Lucinda Weakland to fill the new position of Operations and Training Coordinator for the Department of Emergency Services, effective August 30. One-half of her $30,000 annual salary will be paid by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. Weakland, who for several years has served as executive secretary for the commissioners, was chosen from among six finalists who were interviewed by the commissioners, DES Director John Hetrick and Emergency Management Coordinator Glenn Dunn. The commissioners said Weakland has experience in project management with Hewlett Packard and a strong background in using technology to improve communications and efficiency. The commissioners tabled action on the position several months ago, citing other priorities. A job description developed by PEMA and the commissioners details more than 15 responsibilities for the operations and training coordinator, including working with about two dozen emergency service organizations to determine their needs and schedule training sessions to support them. The commissioners said they hope the new position will assist emergency service organizations who face growing challenges in recruiting and retaining volunteers. During the meeting, the board voted to hire Judy Snyder as Temporary Emergency Executive Secretary to assume Weakland’s duties until the position can be filled permanently. In other personnel action, the commissioners voted to hire Clifford Stuckey as part-time Security Guard, Class I effective September 1, 2010 at an hourly rate of $8.20 per the union contract as recommended by Sheriff Ken Sauley.
This hiring is contingent upon Garth Clark successfully completing his 10 day qualifying period in his new position as Housekeeper, Class I. The board also

Accepted the resignation of Terry Fugqua as part-time Corrections officer and voted to hire Jesse Bova to fill the vacancy as recommended the sheriff. The board was notified of the hiring of Cristol Brook Goodrich as Secretary/Clerk II, Class III, Community Service Coordinator in the Probation Office effective August 30, 2010.

Ann M. Cobado, 39, of Oswayo, formerly of Wilcox, died Wednesday, September 1, 2010 in Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport, after suffering an apparent heart attack in her home.

Born November 26, 1970 in Kane, she was a daughter of Robert R. and Patricia L. Walker Nieshe. On September 24, 2007 in Shinglehouse, she married James L. Cobado, who survives.

Mrs. Cobado was a graduate of Johnsonburg High School, class of 1988 and a graduate of Slippery Rock University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Ann was a social worker at McKean County Children and Youth Services in Smethport. Prior to that, she had been employed by Beacon Light Behavioral Services in Bradford.

Surviving besides her husband are a son, Robert J. Cobado, at home; her mother and stepfather, Pat L. and James F. Fowler of Wilcox; two sisters, Mary E. (Paul) Coward of Akron, Ohio and Jamie L. Fowler of Johnsonburg; her maternal grandfather, Allen Walker, Sr. of Clermont; a stepson, Travis L. (Morgan) Cobado of Oswayo; a stepdaughter, Michelle L. (Bryce Norton) Cobado of Oswayo; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her father, Mrs. Cobado was predeceased by her paternal grandparents, Raymond and Mary Nieshe; and her maternal grandmother, Dollie Walker.

Friends may call at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, PA on Saturday, September 4, 2010 from 10 a.m. to noon at which time funeral services will be held with the Rev. Howard R. Burnham, pastor of Hebron Union Church, Coudersport, officiating. Burial will be in St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Smethport, PA.

Flowers are gratefully declined and will be provided by the family. Memorials may be made to the McKean County Children and Youth Services Relay for Life Team, PO Box 1565, Smethport, PA 16749.

Wanda Marie Wood, 78, of Smethport, died Wednesday (September 1, 2010) in the Bradford Regional Medical Center, Bradford.
She was born Aug 31, 1932 in Crystal, PA, a daughter of Raymond W. and Brunhilda Prochnow Keyser.
Mrs. Wood was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School and had worked at Help Mates in Smethport as a health care aide.
She was a member of the Royal Neighbors of America, The Church of Latter Day Saints, and the Purple Hats of Sena Kean Manor.
She is survived by
one daughter: Denise Moody of Crosby, PA
two brothers: Clair (Fran) Keyser of Port Allegany, PA, Fred (Jo) Keyser of Wellsville, NY
step sons: Michael Wood and Larry Wood both of TX; step daughter, Nikki Wood of Port Allegany, PA.
and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Leonard Keyser.
At Mrs. Wood’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral services.
Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com

Lena D. Petruzzi, 88, of Smethport, died Thursday (September 2, 2010) in the Sena Kean Manor, Smethport.
She was born Aug 7, 1922 in Cranberry Lake, NY, a daughter of Thomas and Mary Frigo Pais. On Sept. 7, 1940, in Smethport, she married Teddy J. Hyde, who died on July 23, 1947. On April 30, 1949, in Smethport, PA, she married Raymond F. Petruzzi, who died September 3, 2008.
Mrs. Petruzzi was a homemaker. She was a member of the American Legion; Bucktail Post #138 Auxillary of Smethport, St. Elizabeth Church, Smethport, and the McKean-Cameron Salon #282 8 & 40. She is survived by
one daughter: Tina Petruzzi of Smethport, PA
one son: Ted Hyde of Smethport, PA
two sisters: Mary Cioffi of Smethport, PA, Sylvia Cappelletti of Crosby, PA
and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, 2 sisters, and a son, Thomas Petruzzi, who died on Feb. 3, 1966.
There will be no visitation. A blessing service will be held on Monday, Sept. 6, at 10 am in the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport, with the Rev. Vincent P. Cieslewicz, pastor of St. Elizabeth Church, officiating. Burial will be in St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Smethport.
Memorials may be made to the Hamlin Memorial Library, Smethport. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com

A teenage driver caused the region’s first school bus related collision Wednesday afternoon. The Four vehicle pile up on Route 120 a mile west of Old West Creek Road in Shippen Township began when 16 year old Sara Heverly of Emporium failed to stop her west bound Subaru and allowed it to run into the back of a 2004 Saturn driven by Paula Tamburlin of Kersey which was pushed into the rear of a 2002 Hyundai operated by John Major of Emporium which then shoved a 1987 Honda motorcycle operated by John Cappielo of St Marys . The cars and motorcycle had all stopped for a school bus which was releasing passengers. Heverly, Tamburlin and Carol Wilson a passenger in the Tamburlin car and June Major a passeenger in the Major auto were all taken by ambulance to St. Marys Regional Medical Center for treatment of their injuries. All of the vehicles sustained major damage and had to be towed from the scene except for the motorcycle which was driven away. . Apparently the school bus was not actually involved in the collision and no students were hurt. Summary traffic charges against Heverly are being filed in district court

Another teenage driver escaped injury in a one-vehicle crash Monday afternoon on the Cherry Flats Road in Charleston Township, Tioga County. Troopers said the 17 year old Blossburg girl lost control of her Chevy Cavalier on a left hand curve. The car drifted off the right side of the road and went into a ditch When the driver backed out of the ditch, the compact hit a mailbox.

A Port Allegany man was seriously injured Wednesday morning when his motorcycle collided with a deer on Route 46 in Norwich Township. State police said 62 year old Herb Witter Jr was headed south near Spring Run Road when the whitetail came onto the road and into his path. Troopers said Witter was unable to avoid hitting the animal. He and his Yamaha bike slid south for about 180 feet before coming to rest. Witter was taken by ambulance to Charles Cole Hospital for treatment of major injuries.

Minor injuries were reported for a Mansfield driver following an accident Wednesday afternoon on Old Mill Road in Sullivan Township, Tioga County. State police said 26 year old Shaun Thomas fell asleep at the wheel of his Plymouth Voyager at about 3:00 pm and allowed it to cross to the other side where it struck a utility pole, then another Plymouth Voyager legally parked, unattended in a yard. Thomas is being charged with careless driving.

State police at Mansfield have charged 27 year old George Howlett of Lindley, NY with hit and run and related summary traffic offenses for a collision taking place back on June 7 on Route 287 in Lawrenceville. Troopers said Howlett pulled his three-wheeler out of the Dandy Mini-Mart and struck the side of a westbound vehicle driven by Deborah Rutty of Lawrenceville causing a large dent. Howlett apparently fled the scene but was identified later and charges have been filed in District Court.

A Westfield resident has been charged with disorderly conduct for an incident taking place at around 11:30 Sunday night outside a residence on East Main Street in Harrison Valley. Coudersport-based state police say 27 year old Todd Putman yelled from the highway and yard area outside the home and then kicked and pushed on the front door of the residence.

Vandalism to three vehicles owned by Dominion Gas over the past weekend is under investigation by Coudersport-based state police. Unknown persons used a pellet or BB gun to fire rounds at the vehicles’ windshields causing an undetermined amount of damage while they were parked inside a security fence along Pleasant Valley Road in Harrison Township, Potter County.

The state police fire marshal has determined that the extent of damage to a Sylvania Township home Sunday night totals more than $133,000. The single story dwelling with attached garage was owned by Dennis and Cheryl Furman and was being renovated at the time. The cause has been traced to a fault in the wiring of the mobile home area of the structure where a utility light was plugged into a wall outlet. More information about the fire can be found in the “News Archives” section of this website.

A former resident of Rixford, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children .The two-count indictment claims Jack Lee Johnson, age 43, received, distributed and possessed computer images depicting minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation leading to the indictment. Johnson was indicted through a a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse, Project Safe Childhood. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

Road Projects will close two sections of The First Fork Road Next Week and the Southwoods Road Later

PennDot reports pipe replacement work will close two sections of the First Fork Road in Sylvania and Homer Townships on September 7 and 8

On Sept. 7, the road will be closed near the Austin/Costello Sportsman’s Club. On Sept. 8, the road will also be closed between Goodenough storage and Snowman’s Farm.

During daylight hours, Potter County Maintenance crews will be working to replace large pipes in each of the locations on the highway. Work will not begin until after school buses pass through the area and work will complete prior to 3pm. PennDOT’s official detour uses Route 872 but drivers familiar with the area may use local roads. All work is weather dependent. PennDot also says repair work will close a bridge on Southwoods Road in the village of Inez starting at 7am on September 13. Potter County PennDOT Maintenance Crews will replace the current open grate deck with a new, concrete deck. Work is expected to last until October 15, weather permitting. Placing a new deck on the bridge will allow PennDOT to remove the weight limit posting. The bridge is currently posted for a 31-ton weight limit and one truck at a time. A detour using Heth Road and State Route 872 will be in place.

PennDOT also says it has removed weight postings on the Rixford Bridge on Route 246 near the village of Rixford in Otto Township, McKean County. In 2009, PennDOT posted the bridge for a 30-ton weight limit for single vehicles and a 38-ton weight limit for combination vehicles. With bridge repairs complete, PennDOT has been able to remove the weight restriction posting. The Rixford Bridge, which spans Baker Run was built in 1925 and is 41 feet long. The bridge carries an average of 1,159 vehicles per day.

Charles H. “Charlie” Nichols, 81, of Coudersport, died Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital.

orn on September 12, 1928 in Roulette, he was the son of Ervin A. and Iona Young Nichols. In 1960 in Galeton he married Eunice Treat who survives.

Mr. Nichols was a lifelong resident of Coudersport. He had been employed with Kane Magnetics of Galeton and also with Karhan’s Contractors in Coudersport. Surviving in addition to his wife are two daughters, Cindy (Max) Gaberseck of Coudersport, Joyce Nichols of Los Angeles, CA, a son, Charles Anthony “Tony” Nichols of Coudersport, two granddaughters, Amber Gaberseck of Parker, PA and Holly Gaberseck of Coudersport, three brothers, Robert “Bill’ Nichols of Roulette, Thomas Nichols of Coudersport and Larry Nichols of Buffalo, NY, two sisters, Gladys Brent and Phyllis (Robert) Tackaberry, both of Tonawanda, NY, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Ervin Nichols, Jr., Russell Nichols, Edward Nichols, and Harold Nichols, and three sisters, Leonore Haight, Ethel Daggett, and Alice Kopplinger.

Friends may call from 6-8pm Friday, September 3, 2010 at the Fickinger Funeral Home, Coudersport, where funeral services will be held at 10:00am Saturday with the Reverend Thomas Shatto officiating. Burial will be in Sweden Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Frank L. Pesock, 71, of Lawrenceville, PA, formerly of Coudersport, PA died Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at Corning Hospital following a brief illness.

Born on May 18, 1939 in Coudersport, he was the son of Frank J. and Betty Peeler Pesock. Mr. Pesock was a graduate of Coudersport High School, Class of 1957. He had been employed with the banking industry for many years and retired from what is now Northwest Savings Bank. He was a member of St. Eulalia Catholic Church in Coudersport, but attended church in Corning, New York. Surviving are his mother, Betty Pesock of Coudersport, PA, a sister, Janet L. (Allen) Davis of Gold, PA, four nieces and three nephews. He was preceded in death by his father who died on March 18, 2002.

Friends may call from 6:00pm – 8:00pm today (Thursday), September 2, 2010 at the Fickinger Funeral Home, Coudersport. The family will also receive friends on Friday at St. Eulalia Catholic Church in Coudersport from 10:00am – 11:00am at which time a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Reverend James Campbell, pastor, as celebrant. Burial will be in St. Eulalia Catholic Cemetery, Coudersport. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Elizabeth “Betty” Campbell, 85, of Galeton, PA, died on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport, PA.
Born May 3, 1925 in Galeton, she was a daughter of the late Gus and Ella (Anderson) VanSteamburg. On July 1, 1945, in Galeton, she married Oliver “Twist” Campbell, who survives.Betty worked at Galeton Production for many years and enjoyed gardening, antiques and spending time with her family and friends. Surviving are her husband of 65 years, Oliver “Twist” Campbell, Galeton; two sons, William (Lynne) Campbell and John (Brenda) Campbell, both of Galeton; a daughter, Nancy (Clay Louden) Campbell, Galeton; 13 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and a sister, Virginia Mack, Galeton.
Friends may call at the Hess Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Collins Chapel, Galeton, on Saturday, September 4, 2010 from 1:00-4:00pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Hurricane Earl lost steam overnight and was downgraded by NOAA from a Category 4 to a Category 3 hurricane and is expected to remain over the open ocean before turning north and running parallel to the East Coast. Forecasters say it is too early to tell just how far inland Earl will come but the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is urging all Americans in East Coast states to take steps now to prepare their families and businesses for hurricanes and severe weather. While there are currently no hurricane warnings or watches in effect for the U.S. mainland, current projections from the National Hurricane Center show the storm could affect states up and down the East Coast and storm tracks can change quickly and unexpectedly. With this in mind, FEMA is coordinating through its regional offices to aggressively prepare should severe weather affect the East Coast and encouraging all Americans to visit www.ready.gov for helpful tips on preparing for hurricanes, flash flooding, and other disasters.Steps individuals and families should take to prepare for an emergency include developing a family communications plan, putting together a kit with 72 hours of food and water, and staying informed of risks in their area.It's also important to remember that hurricanes frequently bring with them heavy rains and the threat of flash flooding, which can occur hundreds of miles inland from the coast. People along the coast should also be aware of dangerous rip tides and surf. Floods are the costliest natural disaster in the United States, and so valuables and important documents should be copied and kept in a safe place. The National Weather Service remains the source of official severe weather watches and warnings, including flash flooding which can take only a few minutes to develop in the case of heavy rains.FEMA encourages all individuals in the region to listen to NOAA Weather Radio and their local news to monitor for severe weather updates, and to follow the directions provided by their local officials especially concerning any potential evacuations.

Governor Rendell Proclaims September 'National Preparedness Month'

Appropriately, Governor Edward G. Rendell Wednesday proclaimed September as national Preparedness Month and encouraged Pennsylvania residents to be better prepared for a disaster by creating emergency kits for their homes and cars, as well as creating a family emergency plan. The Governor said the Ready PA website - www.ReadyPA.org<http://www.ReadyPA.org> - offers comprehensive information on steps people can take to prepare for emergencies, what to do when disaster strikes, and tips for recovering after the event. ReadyPA encourages all Pennsylvanians to "Be Informed, Be Prepared and Be Involved."Echoing FEMA’s recommendations, the Governor said history has shown that emergency responders cannot reach everyone immediately after a disaster, so families should have enough food, water, medication and other necessities, including pet supplies, to survive without outside assistance for at least three days. Families should also prepare a plan to communicate and reunite if they are separated during an emergency.Residents also are encouraged to help their neighbors and communities prepare for and recover from an emergency by taking formal training through their local Citizens Corps council or Red Cross chapter.Downloadable materials, including home and car emergency kit checklists and emergency plan templates, are available at www.ReadyPA.org<http://www.ReadyPA.org> and also through 1-888-9-READYPA. Citizens can find information about getting involved in local emergency response efforts and other volunteer opportunities through the Web site or the toll-free line.

The Roulette Township Supervisors have asked Black Forest Broadcasting to announce that a

contractor working for the Township will be in the area over the next several weeks working on an upgrade for the primary water source located on the Snyder property up Lanninger Creek. They will also be performing upgrades to the main distribution line at the northern end of Fourth Street and western end of Brophy Avenue. There may be periodic loss of water for the customers located on Fourth Street and Brophy for short periods of time during this renovation. The supervisors apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause customers, but they say it is a necessity to improve the quality of water to these residents as well as increase the flow and pressure to them.

Several area fire departments responded to a fire at Baldwin Forest products in Bolivar early this morning. Shinglehouse volunteers were among those going to the scene while Roulette covered for Shinglehouse under the mutual aid system. Most units were back in service by 6:30 am, some five hours after the call.

Emporium based state police are investigating a burglary taking place between 1:30 am and 1:00 pm Tuesday at the home of Edward Niebouer on Bobbys Run Road in Shippen Township. Thieves forced their way into the house and removed a television set and an undetermined amount of coins.

State police at Mansfield are probing the theft of lost or mislaid property from the WalMart Store in Richmond Township on the afternoon of August 19. Candice Chapman of Mansfield told authorities someone stole her cell phone while she was at the store. She called the number and an unknown person answer but never turned the phone into the store or the victim. It’s described as being a Cosmo model and is black in color.

A Covington woman has been cited for harassment for an incident allegedly occurring Sunday afternoon in the parking lot of Monroe Muffler on South Main Street Mansfield. STATE POLICE CLAIM THAT 19 yer old Kaitlin Statts slapped a 27 year old Covington man several times during a domestic dispute.

Two out of state residents have been charged with disorderly conduct for an incident taking place Monday evening in the Mansfield Wal-Mart parking lot. Troopers claim 19 year old Onan Dale Ray Turner of Maysville, Oklahoma and a 16 year old male for Forrest Hill, Texas were observed revving their engines, squealing tires and driving carelessly throughout the lot.

State investigators are looking into whether drilling for natural gas caused methane gas to show up in some water wells in Bradford County near near Towanda.Chesapeake Energy officials they became aware of the the problem almost two weeks ago when so much methane gas built up in a drinking water well that the lid blew off. The gas company is now investigating, along with state environmental crews, after the same gas was found in other wells at neighboring homes. While Chesapeake Energy has not taken responsibility for the issues, the company has hired the inspectors to find the source of methane gas. Chesapeake has even provided the homeowners with drinking water and vents for their wells.A spokesperson for the DEP says Chesapeake Energy has been sent a notice of violation. That means even though the source of the methane gas in Bradford County has not been officially determined, DEP is asking the company how it plans to fix any problems at its natural gas wells.

State Police: CRASH Enforcement Effort Removes 198 Trucks from Service
The Pennsylvania State Police placed 198 trucks out of service during a one-day enforcement last Wednesday, August 25 in an effort that focused on commercial vehicles traveling on rural roads and non-interstate highways
The Commonwealth Rural Roads and State Highways detail, or C.R.A.S.H., was conducted by state police motor carrier enforcement teams across the state.
The enforcement teams inspected 1,263 commercial vehicles during the detail. In addition to placing vehicles out of service, troopers placed 34 drivers out of service and issued 643 traffic citations and 1,502 written warnings.
The most common violations were brakes out of adjustment and inoperative exterior lights.
Troop C (Clarion, Clearfield, Forest, Elk, Jefferson and McKean counties), did 130 inspections; placed 36 vehicles out of service; and issued 67 citations; Troop F (Cameron, Clinton, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder, Union and Tioga counties), inspected 111 vehicles; took 15 vehicles out of service; and issued 104 citations;

Raymond F. MILLER, 83, of Harrison Valley, PA, died Monday, August 30, 2010 at the home of his daughter in Knoxville, TN. Born July 14, 1927, in Roulette, PA, he was the son of Foster W. and Gladys Mae Kent Miller. On July 24, 1993, in Harrison Valley, he married the former Ruth E. “Bonnie” Barnhart French Tubbs, who predeceased him on March 11, 2003. A US Army Veteran, he served honorably from December 1, 1945 until June 30, 1947. He was employed Ingersoll-Rand and Dresser-Rand in Painted Post, NY from 1954 – 1989. Surviving are: five sons, Ronald (Cathy) Miller of Harrison Valley, PA, Rodney (Kim Bogle) Miller of Westfield, PA, Kevin (Debbie) Miller of Gold, PA, Martin Miller and Kelvin (Tracy Cannon) Miller, both of Knoxville, TN; three daughters, Linda (Rodney) Kuhn, Cindy Miller, and Louise (Shawn) Miller, all of Knoxville, TN; 23 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a step-daughter, Bonnie Louise Jones of Addison, NY; and nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Bonnie, he was predeceased by two sons, Meldon C. Miller and Roger F. Miller; two brothers, Charles and Kenneth; a sister, Thelma Steadman; his first wife, Violet Miller Abbey; a granddaughter; and a great-grandson. Friends may call Thursday, September 2, 2010 from 2:00 – 4:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 PM at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Friday at 11:00 AM. Pastor Ed Collins will officiate. Burial will be in Ulysses Cemetery. Military Rites will be accorded by members of the Potter County Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Ann M. (Kelley) Thielges, 47, of Lillibridge Creek Rd.Port Allegany, went to be with her Lord, Sunday (Aug. 29, 2010) at home, with her family by her side.
Born October 6, 1962, in Port Allegany, she was a daughter of Jerry and Betty M. Peck Kelley. On May 28, 1994, in Port Allegany, she married Dale L. Thielges, Jr., who survives. Mrs Thielges was employed by Saint-Gobain Container Co., Port Allegany, before having to retire.She was a lifetime resident of the area and a graduate of the Port Allegany High School, Class of 1980. She was a member of the United Methodist Church, Port Allegany; Canoe Place Fish & Game Club, Port Allegany Womens’ Horseshoe League, and the Park Hotel Dart Team.Surviving are her mother, Betty, husband, Dale, three brothers, Jerry J. (Donna) Kelley of Eldred, Alan D. (Karen) Kelley of Port Allegany, David L. Kelley of Pittsburgh; two step-daughters, Tanya M. Brown of Bradford and Krista A. (Richard) Baumgarner of Port Allegany; five grandchildren; three aunts, Donna Cook of Richburg, NY, June Frakes and Lucille Snyder both of Port Allegany; an uncle, Eldyn Peck of Kansas; two nieces, Jennifer and Amanda; and four nephews, Dennis Dean, Eric and Brian; and close friend, Amy Sherwood of Port Allegany.She was preceded in death by her father, Jerry Kelley. Friends will be received from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday in the Switzer Funeral Home, Port Allegany, where funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday (Sept. 1, 2010) with Rev. M. Thomas Shatto, pastor of the Sweden Valley United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Grimes Cemetery, Port Allegany.
Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society or Canoe Place Fish & Game Club.

The Roulette Township Supervisors have asked Black Forest Broadcasting to announce that a

The unemployment rate in the region improved between June and July according to figures just released by the state department of Labor and Industry. Unemployment here in Potter County dropped almost a half a percent between June and July from 11.6% to 11.2%. Cameron county which still has the worst rate in the state, dropped a full percentage point from 15.0% in June to 14.% in July. Elk County also saw a drop of one full percent from 10.8 to 9.8% during the period while Tioga County which has had the best rate in the region consistently during the global economic downturn also saw a decrease from 9.1%to 8.8%. Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate meanwhile went up slightly from 9.2% to 9.3% for the period while the national figure held steady at 9.5%.

A fire which destroyed a Sylvania Township home was accidental in origin due to an electrical malfunction according to an investigation. The single story house with an attached garage was owned by Dennis and Cheryl Furman and was located near the intersection of the Crandall Road and First Fork Road. Austin, Coudersport, and Roulette fire departments responded to the scene while Port Allegany, Shinglehouse and Emporium provided mutual aid. There were no injuries. Austin First Assistant Chief Chase Cooney told Black Forest Broadcasting that the Furmans were renovating the house and had returned to Coudersport where they were staying during the project. He said the blaze was discovered by a neighbor who was watering her garden and heard an explosion, then saw flames coming from the house. Cooney said the first responders saw flames coming through the roof when they arrived. He said firefighters were able to pump water from a nearby pond so they recalled a Star Hose Company Tanker while enroute.

Coudersport-based state police have charged 34 year old Melissa Franklin of Ulysses with assault and harassment for an incident occurring on the morning of August 16 near the Potter County Waste Transfer Station in Gold. Troopers claim Franklin and a 32 year old Genesee resident became involved in an argument during which she struck him several times. During the investigation, police determined Franklin was driving a vehicle without a license.

Anthony Duell, 23, of Dividing Ridge Road, Coudersport has been charged with making false reports to law enforcement. State police allege that Duell knowingly gave false information to Trooper James Yoder with the intent of implicating another person while being questioned on February 16, 2009. He was arraigned before District Judge Annette Easton and committed to the Potter County Jail in lieu of $5,000 bail. Police did not indicate during which investigation Duell allegedly gave the false information. He was arrested in February 2009 by state police for stealing animal pelts in Hebron Township and later by Coudersport Borough Police for breaking a video machine at the Northwoods Tavern and stealing money from it. He also has reportedly been questioned in connection to several burglaries in the northwestern part of the county.

Several recent burglaries in Tioga County are under investigation by Mansfield-based state police. Thieves took 20 steaks from a freezer in the home of Steven Whittle on the Horse Thief Run Road in Delmar Township, last Thursday or Friday. They also took a 100 gallon sprayer and Stihl string trimmer from the property. Value of the stolen items is estimated to be $775, Someone took a 4hp Ingersol Rand air compressor with a blue hose from the backyard of the Chester Smith residence on East Hill Road in Covington, late last week. And, a Marlboro hammock belonging to Cheryl Smith of Prattsburg, NY was taken last week from a campsite at the Bucktail Campground in Richmond Township. The hammock is valued at $75.

Mansfield-based state police have charged 45 year old Jay Hosley of Coudersport with damage to unattended property for a accident occurring last Thursday afternoon on Hills Creek Lake Road in Charleston Township. Troopers say Hosley was trying to turn his vehicle around at the intersection of Spillway Rod when the landing gear of the towed unit hit the asphalt and damaged the road. After failing to turn around, Hosley then drove north to the Hills Creek Lake Park Boat launch ramp access road and while backing down that road, the landing gear also damaged the asphalt. Police say Hosley continued south to a gas well site before stopping.

Gloria J. hapell, 81, of Coudersport, PA died Sunday, August 29, 2010 at her home following a brief illness.
Born on July 15, 1929 in Shinglehouse, PA she was the daughter of Fred and Hazel Wheeler Osborne. On January 2, 1947 in Sweden Valley, she married Richard W. “Steve” Chapell who survives.
Mrs. Chapell had worked at the former Grubb ‘N Stuff in Sweden Valley and for the past 16 years she worked as a cashier at Valley Hardware. She was a member of the Coudersport Alliance Church and the American Legion Potter Post 192 Ladies Auxiliary. She was an avid bowler and especially enjoyed her family.Surviving in addition to her husband are two sons, Richard E. (Georgeanna) Chapell and Roger W. (Jessie) Chapell, both of Coudersport, a daughter, Jean C. (Ron) Linden of Coudersport, twelve grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, four sisters, Aylene Shaw and Goldie Meacham, both of Olean, NY, Grace Yentzer of Port Allegany, PA, and Freda Palmatier of Coudersport, and many nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Ronald E. Chapell, who died on May 31, 2007, one brother, Adelbert “Spud” Osborne, and three sisters, Bea Stephens, Ruth Gleason, and Beverly Smith.Friends are invited to attend a memorial service to be held at 11:00am Thursday, September 9, 2010 at the Sweden Valley Faith United Methodist Church with the Reverend Thomas Shatto, pastor, officiating. A luncheon will follow the service at the American Legion Potter Post 192.Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements are under the direction of the Fickinger Funeral Home of Coudersport.

May Ida Benson, 92, of Port Allegany, went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 30, 2010, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Aug 15, 1918 in Buffalo, NY, a daughter of Charles and Ida Seburn Venator. On Nov. 25, 1937, in Buffalo NY, she married John J. Benson, who died April 11, 1978.Mrs. Benson was a home maker and devoted Mother and Grandmother. She was a member of the Birch Grove Mennonite Church, Port Allegany.
She is survived by 6 children;JoAnn Ellis of East Aurora, NY; Mary Ann (Gilbert) Miller of Port Allegany, PA; John (Connie) Benson of Port Allegany; Noreen (Reginald) Coneys of Port Allegany; Daniel Benson of Port Allegany; Richard (Linda) Benson of Turtlepoint, 22 Grandchildren; 34 great Grandchildren; and 2 Great Great Grandchildren One sister: Edna Hardison of Grand Island, NY; 2 half sisters: Ramona (Bob) Burdick of WV; Patricia Venator of Buffalo, NY and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and a daughter, Carol Howard, two brothers, Robert and Edmond Venator and one sister, Catherine Young.There will be no visitation. Friends are invited to attend Funeral services on Friday, September 3, 2010 at 12 noon in the Birch Grove Mennonite Church, Two Mile Road Port Allegany with the Rev. John Lapp officiating.Burial will be in the Annin Creek Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Birch Grove Mennonite Church, Port Allegany. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany.

The state police e fire marshal is continuing his investigation into a blaze which heavily damaged the vacant Lake View Inn on Germania Street in Galeton early Friday morning. Fire Fighters were summoned just after 1:00 am and occupants of the next door residence were evacuated by the Galeton Police Department. The investigation has not determined the cause but the fire apparently started in the rear of the building. Damage is said to exceed $225,000. The building was owned by Theresa Button of Imperial, PA., Galeton borough police and members of the Goodyear hose company are assisting in the investigating and anyone who has information is asked to call the Borough police department at 814-435-2600 or fire marshal David Surra at the emporium barracks 814-486-3321.

We have not yet been able to obtain many details concerning a fire at a Sylvania township home last evening. Austin and Coudersport volunteers were called at about 6:20 pm to a home at the intersection of Crandall and First Fork Roads and first responders reported flames showing. Roulette was called for additional tankers. Port Allegany, Galeton, Emporium and Shinglehouse all provided mutual aid.

A Genesee man has been charged with terroristic threats, criminal trespass, criminal mischief and harassment for an incident allegedly taking place on the night of August 18 on Center Street in Ulysses. State police say the incident began as 22 year old Eric Hilliard of Ulysses was helping a 31 year old woman move into a new residence. As Hilliard was leaving the property, 32 year old Eric Potter of Genesee reportedly pulled up behind Hilliard’s vehicle, grabbed a 2-1/2 foot jack handle from his truck, approached Hilliard and ordered him out of his truck or he would smash the window and drag Hilliard out. Potter then allegedly entered the woman’s residence without her permission and a verbal altercation followed. Police said no physical contact was made.

Troopers here are also investigating a harassment by communications taking place Friday night. Authorities say an unknown person sent an obscene text message picture to a cell phone belonging to Frances Mattison of Genesee.

State police at Mansfield have investigated a couple of harassment incidents in their district recently. Jeffrey Terrill, 35 of Millerton has been cited for harassment after he allegedly repeatedly threatened a 24 year old neighbor late Saturday night. Both men involved in an argument early last Wednesday morning along Route 349 in Clymer Township, Tioga County have been cited for harassment. Troopers say 25 year old Steven Harig of Gaines and 43 year old Murray Johnson of Westfield were involved in an argument which escalated to physical confrontation.

A Mississippi truck driver has been cited for hauling an oversize load in Potter County without a valid oversize permit. Mark Evans, 30, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi was stopped Friday morning on the East Fork Road in Summit Township while hauling an oversize load on a flatbed trailer . Troopers found the vehicle weight was 23,000 pounds over the legal limit. The 2009 Kenworth and trailer were taken out of service; oversize permit was confiscated and six citations totaling more than $8400 in fines were issued. Evans is employed by Monster Heavy Haulers, LLC of Rayne, LA.

A Port Allegany woman escaped injury when her SUV tangled with a bear Friday afternoon on Route 155 in Liberty Township. Troopers said Mary Lashway was headed north when the bruin came onto the road and into the path of her GMC Acadia. Police did not report the fate of the bear.

A couple of camp burglaries on the South Woods Road in Homer Township are being probed by Coudersport-based state police. Sometime since the first of April, thieves forced their way into a camp owned by Richard Bush of Marion, NY and into a shed at a camp; owned by Thomas Sevco of Saint Michaels, Maryland but it’s not known if anything was taken from either location.

Several recent criminal mischief incidents in the region are being investigated by area state police. Troopers at Coudersport have charged 19yer old Travis Cardy of Galeton with criminal mischief for damaging the driveway on the Eugene Stevens property on Millheime Lane in Hector Township last Wednesday evening. Authorities say Cardy made several donuts on the gravel driveway with his ATV causing about $75 in damage. Some of the gravel was deposited onto Loucks Mills Road. Unknown vandals used firewood belonging to Christian Wild, Jr. of Roulette late Saturday night to start a fire on his Main Street property without his permission. Vandalism to a 2002 Komatsu Galion owned by PennDot will cost taxpayers $500 to fix. Someone smashed the machine’s windshield over the past couple of weeks while it was parked along the road near the intersection of Annin Creek, Two Mile Road and Doyle Hollow in Annin Township, in McKean County. Vandals scratch the paint on a 2005 Chevrolet coupe owned by Shawn Wilcox of Covington last Wednesday night while it was parked at the Triple D Trailer Court in Putnam Township, Tioga County.

DEP Sending Violators Notices; Additional Enforcement Actions May FollowMore than half of the natural gas drillers operating in the Marcellus Shale missed the deadline to report the production levels of their wells in violation of state law, according to the Department of Environmental Protection.DEP Secretary John Hanger said Friday that 41 of the 74 oil and gas companies operating in the Marcellus Shale, or 55 percent, failed to submit reports on the past 12 months of production by the Aug. 15 deadline. Hange said the department plans to follow-up with each non-compliant firm and pursue whatever enforcement action is necessary to get them to follow the law.The public can track a Marcellus operator’s compliance with Act 15 production reporting requirements online at http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/oilgas/OGRE_production/Marcellus_Report_Submissions_8-26-10.xls. The site includes a complete list of operators that did not submit production reports by Aug. 15. The list will be updated on a weekly basis as production report submissions are made. The list of the Marcellus operators that submitted production reports on time is also provided.

The new law, Act 15 of 2010, required gas companies drilling into the Marcellus formation to report production totals from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010 by Aug. 15. Subsequent to this deadline, companies will be required to report production every six months, making the next report due Feb. 15.Prior to Act 15, DEP was required by law to keep production reporting data confidential for five years.For more information or to view the production reports of companies that met the deadline, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us.

Editor’s Note: A list of companies that failed to meet the Aug. 15, reporting deadline follows. Those with asterisks submitted after the deadline:

The body of a Duke Center man was found Thursday at his camp located about a mile and half west of Route 44 on the Long Toe Road in Summit Township. Friends of 66 year old Carl Schwab discovered his body and summoned state police who determined Schwab had died last weekend after falling off the camp roof which he had been repairing. He was pronounced dead at 3:45 pm yesterday by Assistant Potter County Coroner Patty Dusenbury who determined the cause of death was due to blunt force trauma suffered in the fall from the roof.

Five people were taken to Corning Hospital for treatment of various injuries following a collision early Thursday morning on the southbound lane of Route 15 about 822 feet south of the New York State line in Lawrenceville. State police at Mansfield said the collision occurred when a Ford Ranger driven by 26 year old Stacey Tanner of New York State was traveling north in the southbound lane and struck a Plymouth Voyager driven by Mahmoud Gaballa of Pennsylvania head-on. Both drivers and their passengers, Douglas Taft of New York State riding in the truck, Amal Roweszak and Maha Gaballa both of Pennsylvania were taken by ambulance to the hospital. Authorities say alcohol was a contributing factor and charges are pending.

A Brooklyn NY driver escaped injury in a one-vehicle crash Monday afternoonon Rotue 120 in Gibson Township Cameron County. State police said 32 year old Ibrhima Bah was headed east when his Toyota 4-Runner went out of control on the wet road and struck an embankment. He’s being cited for careless driving.

Rexford Man Sentenced In Potter County For Giving Wrong ID To Police Victor Lushbaugh, 45 of Rexford, PA was sentenced recently in Potter County Court recently for False Identification to Law Enforcement (M3), Failure to Carry Registration (S), Failure to Carry License (S), Driving While Suspended (S), and Maximum Speed Limits (S). Potter Copunty Judge Steve Minor ordered Lushbaugh to spend six months on probation, a fines totaling $607.00 and perform 25 hours of community service. Potter County DA Andy Watson who prosecuted the case explained Lushbaugh was stopped by state police on December 15, 2009 for speeding and was unable to provide his identification and vehicle but gave his name and date of birth. The trooper cited Lushbaugh for speeding and gave him two written warnings for failing to produce his license and registration. A month later, the trooper received a phone call from Lushbaugh’s brother who had just received a notice from PennDot assessing him 4 points on his driver’s license. The Trooper contacted Lushbaugh with the information provided by his brother and it was discovered that Lushbaugh did in fact provide false information to the Trooper at the time of the stop by giving the officer his brother’s name and date of birth.

In Tioga County Court action, a babysitter was sentenced 15 months' special probation, plus $1,255 in fines and fees for endangering the welfare of children. April M. Burrows, 20, was arrested by Westfield Borough police following an incident April 10 after a 2-year-old boy she was watching wandered off and was missing for about 10 minutes. In other Tioga County Court news, Bruce E. Metcalf, 25, of Westfield, was fined $150 plus court costs in for retail theft. Metcalf was charged by state police following an incident June 21, 2008, at Wal-Mart, Richmond Township, during which he took an item from the store without paying for it and then returned it for a gift card in the amount of $424.

Wellsboro Man Sentenced In Federal District CourtThe United States Attorney’s office announced this week that Russell Oberther 50, of Wellsboro was sentenced Wednesday August 25^th by Senior District Court Judge James F. McClure Jr. to 36 months in federal prison and ten years of supervised release for possession of child pornography. U.S. Attorney Peter J. Smith stated that Oberther was snared by Operation Emissary “2” which was designed to investigate foreign internet sales of child pornography in April of 2008 after agents had obtained a search warrant for his residence.

Everyone Wants A Piece of The Marcellus Shale TaxPotter County Commissioner Paul Heimel represented the county at a series of meetings in Harrisburg this past week concerning the proposed Marcellus Shale Tax. Governor Rendell was in Wellsboro earlier today to outline his plans for the additional revenue. At yesterday’s regular meeting of the County Commissioners, Heimel said Potter County is prepared to wage a vigorous fight along with other rural counties to make sure that a portion of any tax collected is returned to the counties and municipalities where drilling is happening. Chairman Doug Morley asked county residents to contact lawmakers to encourage them to vote in favor of sending at least a portion of the money to local governments rather than sending it all to Harrisburg to bail out the general fund. Meanwhile, the governor said today communities in the heart of the booming Marcellus Shale drilling region are struggling to protect the environment and groundwater supplies while facing growing social service needs, Heavy truck traffic is putting pressure on local roads and bridges, leading to weight restrictions being imposed on three bridges in the past four months.Of the 1,722 miles of roads covered by bonds posted by Marcellus Shale drillers statewide, 1,067 have been damaged. More than 500 miles of roads in PennDOT’s District 3, which includes Tioga and Bradford counties, have been damaged by drilling vehicles. To date this year, 1,765 natural gas wells have been drilled in Pennsylvania. Of that total, 848 have been drilled to access gas deposits in the Marcellus Shale, with 171 of those wells being drilled in Tioga County.

The Department of Environmental Protection has also issued nearly 4,195 drilling permits this year, of which 1,915 were for Marcellus development. The department is on track to issue approximately 2,700 Marcellus permits this year — a 36-percent increase over permits issued in 2009.

The debate comes down to rural counties, where the drilling is going on, want to have at least some control on the local level of money generated from the proposed tax while the Rendell Administration is looking to have the money go to the state and then send a portion, if any, back to the local level. Heimel points out he tax base is severely limited due to the large percentage of tax-exempt state forest/game lands in Potter County. Much of the revenue that’s being diverted from the Oil and Gas Lease Fund to address the state’s budget gap is being generated from gas leases within our county’s borders, while rising taxes on privately owned real estate are crippling our economy.“At the same time, many of the major industries that provide the foundation of our economy – agriculture, tourism, forest production and manufacturing – are especially stressed by the recession and other factors. Furthermore, the absence of major highways and rail lines in Potter County make it more challenging to attract a major industry (including those that are servicing the gas industry).“We believe a strong case can be made for a local government carve-out in the distribution formula, both from the perspective of actual costs and on the principle of basic fairness. By designating a substantial share of the revenue from the severance/production tax for county and local governments where the gas production takes place, the legislature would be enabling local leaders to address their own particular needs.”

For more information about natural gas drilling in Pennsylvania, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us.

Pennsylvania Eggs Are Safer Than Most
Although a Salmonella scare and egg recall is taking place across much of the country, Pennsylvania-produced eggs are safer to eat, according to poultry experts in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. That's thanks to a program Penn State researchers helped Keystone State egg producers start almost two decades ago, which was the model for the national program to guard against egg contamination implemented just this July.Pennsylvania was the first state in the nation to institute steps to reduce the risk of Salmonella enteritidis with flock-testing and management programs in 1992. The state Department of Agriculture provides oversight, technical advice and financial assistance for the Pennsylvania Egg Quality Assurance Program, and the state Department of Health participates in an advisory capacity.

Food-safety and poultry experts from Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania also take part in the risk-reduction program, widely known as PEQAP. Although it does not guarantee eggs are free of Salmonella enteritidis, the program assures that producers implement management and monitoring practices that reduce contamination. In return, the eggs of producers that meet its standards are certified with a logo that appears on egg cartons.

The Pennsylvania program, which has dramatically reduced the incidence of During a two-year research project beginning in 1990, Penn State found that an egg-assurance program must include rodent control, Patterson noted, adding that rodents bring Salmonella to chickens. What emerged was a multi-step approach to lowering the risk of egg contamination. Measures include testing baby chicks coming onto farms for Salmonella, controlling rodents (hen houses are tightly sealed) and testing the hen-house environment repeatedly for Salmonella enteritidis (those that test positive are cleaned and disinfected, and the eggs are discarded or sent for pasteurization).

PEQAP requires third-party monitoring. If a business is not complying, they are brought before a board of advisors made up of industry and advisory personnel. They are given an opportunity to address and fix problems, but if they don't they can lose their certification In Pennsylvania, poultry flocks are continuously monitored for disease with tests conducted by the Pennsylvania Animal Diagnostic Laboratory System, with facilities at Penn State, University of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

It made sense for Pennsylvania and Penn State to take the lead in researching how The state is the biggest egg producer in the Northeast, and Penn State faculty were very instrumental in investigating the origin of Salmonella outbreaks and how they could be prevented.

"The important thing is how early Pennsylvania got started in this program," Dunn
To reduce the risk of Salmonella enteritidis -- which can cause fever, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and sometimes more serious illness or death -- Penn State scientists recommend the following:

--Keep eggs refrigerated at or below 45 degrees F.
--Discard cracked or dirty eggs.
--Wash hands, cooking utensils and food preparation surfaces with soap and water after contact with raw eggs.
--Cook eggs until both the white and the yolk are firm, and eat promptly after cooking.
--Do not keep eggs warm or at room temperature for more than two hours.
--Refrigerate unused or leftover egg-containing foods promptly.
--Don't eat raw eggs.

A motorcyclist from Picture Rocks, PA suffered moderate injuries in a crash Monday afternoon on Route 414 in Morris Township, Tioga County. State police said 28 year old John Worthington, Sr. was speeding while traveling west negotiating a left hand curve downhill causing his Honda VT750 Shadow to go out of control, roll over and slide on its right side for a short distance. Worthington was thrown off the cycle in the process. He was taken to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro by the Morris Ambulance for treatment.

State police at Kane are investigating a criminal mischief occurring Wednesday morning along Coleman Mills Road in Liberty Township, McKean County. Vandals scratched the driver’s side of a 1999 Chevy truck owned by David Herd of Port Allegany causing an undetermined amount of damage.

A 34 year old Port Allegany woman has been sentenced in Potter County Court to eight months probation for making false reports to law enforcement authorities. Cheryl Green was also ordered to pay a $150 fine. According to Potter County DA Andy Watson, Green gave a written statement to Coudersport Borough police accusing another individual of attempting to murder her husband. Upon a thorough investigation it was determined that the statement was false.

Another Port Allegany resident has waived his case into McKean County Court. Guy Spees, 21, of Gleason Hollow as arrested earlier this month on felony sexual assault charges three young girls. Authorities claim Spees had sex with three girls, ages 13 and 14 in his car between late June and mid-July at various locations in the Port Allegany area and that he gave each of the victims cigarettes and alcohol. Spees had been scheduled to appear before District Judge Bill Todd for a preliminary hearing this past Monday, but waived the case into the higher court.

PennDOT Reminds Drivers, Students of Shared Safety Concerns as New School Year Approaches

Coudersport Area students returned to classes today while most schools across the region will not start classes until this coming Monday, August 30 and with the rumble of school buses soon heralding back-to-school season in Pennsylvania, PennDOT today reminded motorists and students to watch out for one another.Pennsylvania's school bus stopping law requires motorists approaching a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended to stop at least 10 feet from the bus. Motorists approaching from all directions are required to stop. However, motorists who encounter a school bus stopping on the opposite side of a divided highway are not required to stop; lanes of a divided highway are clearly separated by a divider, such as concrete barriers or grassy medians.
Motorists convicted of violating Pennsylvania's school bus stopping law face a $250 fine, five points on their record and a 60-day license suspension.

Motorists are required to slow down to the posted speed limit of 15 miles per hour in school zones. Violations carry a fine and three points on the driver's record.

Students also share responsibility for remaining safe. PennDOT asks parents to discuss with students the following school bus safety tips:
*       Get to the bus stop five minutes early to avoid having to run to catch the bus;
*       If crossing the street to board the school bus, be sure to look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT to see that all cars have stopped;
*       When waiting for the school bus, stay at least five giant steps away from the curb or roadway to avoid traffic;
*       Avoid the "School Bus Danger Zone" by staying at least 10 giant steps away from the bus on all sides so the bus driver can see you. If you drop something near or under a bus, be sure to tell the driver before trying to retrieve it;
*       NEVER walk behind the school bus;
*       When getting on and off the bus, secure drawstrings and other loose objects so they cannot get caught in the handrail or door;
*       Talk quietly while on the bus so the driver is not distracted; and
*       Remain seated at all times and wait for the bus to fully stop before standing up to exit.

Student pedestrians should avoid using cell phones or wearing headphones to prevent distractions while walking near traffic.

For more tips, visit the School Bus Safety link under the Traffic Safety Information Center on PennDOT's highway safety website at www.DriveSafePA.org<http://www.DriveSafePA.org>. The website also features an animated illustration of the school bus stopping law.

Charles Cole Memorial Hospital Staff this week helped area school children. By donating 52 backpacks, over $700 and six large boxes of extra school supplies to To Fill a Backpack. The program started in 2008 and provides school supplies to elementary and high school students throughout the areaFor more information on the program, or to make a donation, visit www.tofillabackpack.org.

The northern tier will be well represented this year in the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania as Tioga County Commissioner Mark Hamilton was elected 2011 president of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania during the 124th annual conference recently in Centre County. Leaders from around the Commonwealth gathered to attend workshops and training sessions, network with their peers, discuss state and federal policies that impact counties and elect association leaders for the next year. Potter County Commissioner Chairman Doug Morley attended the convention and reported at the August 13 regular meeting of the board that the two main issues of discussion were the Marcellus Shale Drilling and transportation funding. He said more urban counties are looking for a share of a severance tax while counties where the drilling is underway are looking for some reimbursement for the additional costs they are incurring because of drilling activity, such as road repair. Morley said while urban counties think of transportation funding in terms of mass transit, rural counties think of roads and bridges. He said a new means of funding projects will have to be developed since the old system was based on collection of a gasoline tax. The former banker said, that as vehicles become more energy efficient, the revenue goes down, “you do the math. It’s not going to continue working.”

Clifford B. Carts, of Coudersport, PA went peacefully into the arms of his savior, Jesus Christ, August 24, 2010, following many courageous battles with health complications. For the past four years he resided at Sweden Valley Manor, receiving excellent healthcare and love from their staff. Having grown up in Reading, PA he was the son of Frederick and Virginia Clifford Carts. He married Florence Zimmerman on June 7, 1952. He joined the 4^th Marine Division after spending 2 years of forestry studies at Penn State. Following combat duty in the Pacific Theatre in World War II, receiving the Purple Heart and other commendations from Iwo Jima, he returned to finish his forestry degree. He founded a consulting forestry firm that includes three generations of foresters. Clifford was active with the local school board and really enjoyed advances in local school and sports endeavors. He helped encourage development of skiing in the area and was happy to see his grandson involved in Denton Hill Ski Area. He also enjoyed establishing international contacts to advance responsible forest practices in both China and Malaysia, training team tours to each as well as Australia and New Zealand. Clifford had a special bond with all his family and grandchildren and great-grandchildren and followed them in their various recreational pursuits, especially skiing and horse showing, hockey, baseball, football, soccer, basketball and volleyball. Clifford is survived by a sister, Phyllis Searle of Fearrington Village, NC, a son, Jeffrey (Carol Sue) Carts of Coudersport, three grandchildren, Scott (Jodi) Carts of Coudersport, Keri (Jon) Anderson of Coudersport, and Amanda (Tim) Johns of Lock Haven, PA. In addition he is survived by seven great-grandchildren. Clifford was predeceased by his wife of 54 years, Florence, on December 7, 2006 and also his brother-in-law, Ronald Searle, in 2009.Friends may call at the Fickinger Funeral Home of Coudersport on Sunday, August 29, 2010 from 2:00pm until 4:00pm at which time funeral services will be held with Reverend Harold Kiel officiating. Burial will be in Laureldale Cemetery in Reading, PA. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sweden Valley Manor Activities Fund, 1028 E. Second Street, Coudersport, PA 16915, or to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Ministries, 1 Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC, 28201.

U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) was Coudersport yesterday to announce his support for, and committee passage of, $100,000 for a prison recidivism prevention pilot program.

The $100,000 that Senator Casey supports has been passed by the Senate Appropriations Committee. Upon final approval, the federal funding would implement a collaborative community re-entry program that will serve Potter County Jail inmates and their family members. The program would offer coordinated case management, counseling, job training, life skills and drug and alcohol treatment to male inmates and their families for six to twelve months during incarceration. In addition, community-based services and follow-up for approximately six months after prison release would also be provided. Sex offenders would not be eligible for the program which targets 25-35 year olds jailed primarily for drug and/or alcohol related offenses, burglary and probation violation.

Following the announcement about the program, Senator Casey met with local officials to discuss how Potter County is handling the influx of drilling companies and working to secure local jobs. The discussion on natural gas drilling focused on the challenges and opportunities faced by Potter County as drilling companies arrive in the area.

Senator Casey has introduced legislation to help prepare Pennsylvania workers for jobs in the natural gas industry. The Marcellus Shale On-the-Job Training Act of 2010 (S.3720) will authorize grants to strengthen the On-the-Job Training programs to help ensure natural gas drilling jobs go to Pennsylvanians and not workers from out-of-state. He said he has also introduced the Fracturing Responsibility and Awareness of Chemicals Act (S.1215) to repeal an exemption provided for the oil and gas industry and would require the disclosure of the chemicals used in their hydraulic fracturing processes.

Senator Casey told the group he also plans to introduce legislation to improve emergency response at oil and gas wells. The Faster Action Safety Team Emergency Response (FASTER) Act of 2010 provides the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) with the ability to draft regulations that will enhance emergency response procedures at oil and gas wells. Senator Casey chaired a hearing in Pittsburgh last month to gather comments on his proposal. Specifically, Senator Casey’s proposal would provide OSHA the power to draft regulations that will require operators to:

· Have an employee, knowledgeable in responding to emergency situations, present at the well at all times during the exploration or drilling phase;

· Make available a certified response team, within one hour of ground travel time, if an emergency situation arises;

· Contact local first responders within 15 minutes of the commencement of an emergency situation;

· Contact the National Response Center within 1 hour of the commencement of an emergency situation;

· Provide communication technology at the well site (e.g.., mobile communication or satellite phone);

· Provide annual training to local first responders on the hazards of a well site and proper emergency response techniques; and

· File an annual report with OSHA that names the certified response team assigned to each well of the operator.

OSHA will have 18-months to finalize the regulations under this Act. The Act will allow OSHA to define the term ‘emergency situation.

The Senator also stopped in Warren where he toured the city’s Streetscape renovation project for which he secured $400,000 in federal funding. He also met with Zippo Manufacturing officials and employees in Bradford during his trip across the Northern Tier.

A fugitive from justice, wanted in Maryland, was picked up by Mansfield-based state police on Monday when he tried to claim a rifle at Hunter Supply in Knoxville which he had won in a raffle. David Edwards, 63, of Whitesville is wanted on felony charges of theft and bad checks in Annapolis, Maryland and was committed to the Tioga County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail after being arraigned before District Judge Brian Edgcomb pending extradition.

The Game Commission is advising hunters that nder a new structure of fines and penalties that take effect on Sept. 7, those convicted of illegal possession of a black bear would face a misdemeanor charge carrying penalties of up to $3,000 in fines and the possibility of up to six months in prison. The increase in fines and penalties are the result of Gov. Rendell signing into law House Bill 1859, which was sponsored by House Game and Fisheries Committee Chairman Edward Staback. The Commission was recently successful in its prosecution of Raymond Carl Kresge Sr., 66, of Gouldsboro, Wayne County who was found guilty of unlawfully possessing a 600-pound male black bear District Judge Bonnie L. Carney, of Hawley, fined Kresge $1,500 plus and costs of the conducting DNA analysis.

On Sept. 29, a large male black bear was found unceremoniously dumped in the State Game Land 312 parking lot on Route 507, Gouldsboro. The bear was killed by a single gun shot to the head. It is believed to have been killed a day or two prior to being found, and evidence and information was obtained from the scene.

On Oct. 30, Lehigh Township Police officers stopped Kresge on a moving violation, for which he was charged with driving without a license. After noticing what appeared to be bear hair on the bumper, Lehigh Township Police notified the Game Commission Northeast Region Office. After confirming that bear hair was on the bumper of the truck, Game Commission officers impounded the vehicle and obtained a search warrant. DNA tests confirmed that the dead bear had been in the back of Kresge’s truck.

The Coudersport Public Library will host a 5K Run on Sunday, October 3 to raise money for the building fund. The library’s trustees found that extensive renovation of the 60 year old building would cost as much as a new building so they voted, instead to build a new 21st Century modern library which will be energy efficient and fully handicapped accessible. Trophies will be awarded to the Overall First Place Finisher for men and women and medals will be presented to the first three place finishers in each sex and age division. Registration will be from 1:00 to 1:45 pm and the race will start promptly at 2:00 pm. There will be a half mile Fun Run for kids at Mitchell Park. To obtain a registration form, go to http://coudersportlibrary.org/blog. Organizers are also looking for sponsors. Sponsors who donate $100 or more will be listed on the back of tee shirts given to the first 75 runners. All others will be included in a sponsor pamphlet included in the goodie bag. The committee is also looking for donations of pens, water bottles and other small items to be included in the goodie bag. For more information, contact Krista Batterson at batterson@zitomedia.net.

Monday’s high, 67; Overnight low, 57 ; .30” of rain (.15 on Fishing Creek)

US Senator Bob Casey made a trip across the Northern Tier today. Casey toured downtown Warren’s streetscape improvements this morning Senator Casey successfully sponsored a $400,000 appropriation in FY2010 for the project. He was joined by local officials. Casey then headed east to Bradford and to tour the headquarters and factory of Zippo Manufacturing. He was joined by local officials and representatives from Zippo. Senator Casey will also met with Zippo employees to discuss foreign competition and trade issues. Then the Senator arrived in Coudersport where he met with Potter County Commissioners Doug Morley, Paul Heimel, and Susan Kefover and Sheriff Ken Sauley to discuss the county’s prison recidivism prevention pilot program. Afterwards, Senator Casey met with local officials to discuss how Potter County is handling the influx of drilling companies and working to secure local jobs.

Keystone Elk Country Alliance to Partner with DCNR to Operate the Elk Country Visitor Center
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is partnering with the Keystone Elk Country Alliance to operate the Elk Country Visitor Center in Benezette Township, Elk County, DCNR Secretary John Quigley announced yesterday. The center, a key part of the Pennsylvania Wilds initiative, is slated to open this fall.
As a non-profit wildlife conservation organization, the Keystone Elk Country Alliance, or KECA, will focus its resources on Pennsylvania's elk herd in the north central region of the state. Many of the board, staff and volunteers have numerous years of experience raising private dollars to enhance elk country. The 8,420-square-foot center will attempt Gold LEED certification, and includes
interpretive exhibits, wildlife trails and viewing blinds, year-round restrooms and parking for cars and buses. The commonwealth is providing $6 million for construction of the center. Doors are expected to open to visitors in mid-September and a grand opening is planned for October. In September 2009, DCNR entered an agreement with the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation to help the department complete the Elk Center after an initial partnership with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation was concluded .KECA also will operate the Elk Mountain Homestead on the 245-acre center property.
The center will have a variety of interactive displays about elk, birds and trees. Look for a life-sized natural history display in the center's great room portraying the interconnection of animals to their environment. Visitors also can watch real time video of the elk range on screens in the center to see the wildlife that wanders into view.The Richard King Mellon, Dominion, and Thoreson foundations; Safari Club International; Eastern Chapter Foundation for North American Wild Sheep; Grice Gun Shop; and many individual donors made contributions for the center.For more information about KECA, visit www.ExperienceElkCountry.com<http://www.ExperienceElkCountry.com>. Visit the KECA website for more information about the Elk Country Visitor Center, or visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us<http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/>, and choose "Elk Country Visitor Center" under "Quick Links."

Long-Time Potter County Grant Director Ellen Shinn Is Leaving

A long-time Potter County Human Services official will be leaving later this month. The Commissioners during the August 13 meeting, accepted the resignation of Grants and Resource Director Ellen Shinn effective November 12. She will be using up vacation and comp time and thus her last day on the job locally will be August 31. Shinn has worked for the county for over 25 years and has been responsible for securing numerous grants for the county and Human Services, one of the them for the Mobile Family Center which has been in operation now for several years. Shinn has accepted a similar position in the Harrisburg area. In response to a question from reporter Kiim Hoak, Chairman Doug Morley said the board had not really had a chance to discuss filling the vacancy. Commissioner Paul Heimel hinted the county may be looking at another way to apply for grants noting that several department heads had recently attended a grant writing workshop. Heimel indicated the county instead of replacing Shinn, may opt to have department heads apply for their own grants. In other personnel action, the board voted to hire Garth Clark as full-time Housekeeper, Class I effective August 16, 2010 subject to a 10-day qualifying period per the union contract filling the vacancy created by the retirement of long-time employee Sandy Schoonover and agreed to hire Mark A. Remy as part-time Security Guard, Class I, effective August 16, 2010 upon the recommendation of Sheriff Ken Sauley. Remy will replace Philip Seeley who was recently promoted in the Sheriff’s Office. And, the board was advised by Connie Bock that she has retired effective August 10, 2010 as PCHS County Caseworker/Supports Coordinator. Bock has served the county since August 1998.

Both Teens Charged In Frying Pan Incident
Coudersport-based state police have now charged both teenagers involved in a frying pan assault on July 27 at 318 North Main Street, Ulysses. A 17 year old girl and a 15 year old boy became involved in an argument which became physical when the girl allegedly threw a lighter at the chest of the boy, slapped him in the face, jumped on him and bit his right shoulder. After the boy pushed the girl off of him, he left the house and was chased down the street by the girl wielding a frying pan. Upon further investigation, troopers have charged the girl with one county each of simple assault and harassment and the boy with one county of harassment.

Troopers in Tioga County have filed harassment charges against two people following separate incidents. Richard Harley, 45, of Wellsboro has been cited for allegedly calling and texting 27 year old Emagene Williammee of Mansfield repeatedly all day this past Sunday after being told not to contact her. Katelyn Ling, no address given, has been cited for harassment after she allegedly hit a 23 year old woman on the head three times during an argument Friday afternoon at a residence on Route 49 in Westfield Township.

Sonya Johnston, 45, of Eldred was jailed Monday in lieu of $7500 bail after being arraigned before District Justice Bill Todd on charges making false reports to law enforcement authorities; making unsworn falsification to authorities and harassment. State police at Kane contend Johnston falsely accused her he ex-husband, Mark Johnston also of Eldred from violating a Protection From Abuse Order.

DUI charges have been filed against three area residents. State police at Coudersport arrested 23 year old James Hosley of Coudersport for DUI after stopping him for speeding early Saturday morning in the borough. Taylor Parsons, 23, of Wellsboro was arrested for DUI after being pulled over by Mansfield-based state police for speeding early Saturday morning on Route 2005 in Putnam Township. And, 31 year old Ronald Kennedy of Bradford was charged with DUI by Kane-based state police after stopping him for vehicle code violations an the Route 219 North On Ramp in the City of Bradford early Saturday morning.

State police at Coudersport are probing a couple of criminal mischief incidents. Sometime between August 13 and 15, vandals cut a wire cable securing the driveway at a camp on Ives Hollow Road in Abbott Township owned by Robert Baylor of York, PA. Unknown culprits damaged the front door at the home of Sandra Smith on Main Street in Genesee late last Wednesday night. Anyone with information about either of these incidents is asked to call the barracks at 814-274-8690.

Eva G. Mottern, 90, of Roulette, PA, died Sunday (August 22, 2010) in the Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport.She was born Aug 21, 1920 in Dunkirk, NY, a daughter of Erwin C. and Edith Workman Williams. On Oct. 28, 1939 in Johnsonburg, PA, she married Howard E. Mottern, who died July 28, 1990.Mrs. Mottern was a graduate of Johnsonburg High School and worked as clerk in several stores, including Fisher Price in East Aurora, NY, and ultimately at Pfeil’s Drug Store in Port Allegany.
She enjoyed crocheting, crafts, bird watching, and loved her dog, "Pokey".
She is survived byt wo daughters: Daris (Gerald) Drabert of Roulette, PA, Beth (Michael) Shall of Oswayo, PA one son: David (Betty) Mottern of Coudersport, PA 5 Grandchildren: Scott Drabert, Glenn (Ginette) Drabert, Wade (Denean) Mottern, Matthew (Yvonne) Shall, Amanda (Derek) Haynes.8 Great Grandchildren: Garrett, Gabrielle, Kade, Alxis, Layne, Ava, Alli, and Ana.She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.There will be no visitation. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Aug. 28, at 11:00 am from the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc, Port Allegany, with the Rev. Randall Headley, pastor of the Port Allegany United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Wells Cemetery, Oswayo, PA.
Memorials may be made to the Roulette Volunteer Fire Dept. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

Sunday’s high, 73; Overnight low, 61; .24”rain (.03 on Fishing Creek; 1.36 Overnight Saturday into Sunday)

A 13 year old Lindley, NY boy suffered minor injuries Sunday just before noon Sunday when his ATV collided with a motorcycle in Allegany Township, Potter County. State Police explained the collision occurred as the youth was traveling near the front of large group of ATVs on the shoulder of Route 49 about a quarter mile west of the Peet Brook Road. Timothy Minns, Jr. 30, of Cuba NY while headed west began passing the ATVs with his 2002 Kawasaki Vulcan motorcycle just at the ATVs began crossing the highway to enter a driveway. When the 13 year old crossed the highway, Minns was unable to avoid hitting his ATV. The impact cause the four-wheeler to roll over and eject the operator. The teen was taken to Charles Cole Hospital by ambulance. Minns and his passenger, Kathleen Green also of Cuba were unhurt. Coudersport Volunteer Emergency Services responded to the scene.

Minor injuries were reported for a Wellsboro driver following a one vehicle crash Friday afternoon on Route 362 in Shippen Township, Tioga County. State police said 21 year old Levi Hewitt lost control of his Honda Element while approaching a left hand curve. When Hewitt overcorrecte4d, the vehicle traveled to the other side of the road, went up an embankment, rolled end over end and struck the embankment a second time before coming to rest in the center of the highway. Hewitt was taken to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital by ambulance and is being charged with speeding.

Minor injuries were reported for a McKean County teenage driver and his passenger following a one-vehicle mishap Saturday morning on Route 59 in Keating Township, McKean County. Kane-based state police said 17 year old Aaron Williams of Cyclone was traveling east when his Chevrolet Classic crossed to the other side of the road, hit a ditch and rolled over once, coming to rest on its wheels. Williams and his passenger, 15 year old Tyler Miketish of Gifford were taken by ambulance to Bradford Regional Medical Center for treatment of their injuries.

Mansfield-based state police are looking for a hit and run driver following a minor collision Saturday afternoon at about 5:00pm in the parking lot at the Dollar General south of Route 49 in Nelson Township. An unknown vehicle backed into a parked unattended Subaru Legacy and the driver fled the scene without notifying the owner of the other car or police. Anyone with information is asked to call the Mansfield barracks at 570-662-2151.

Six people from two camps located off of Route 44 in Summit Township Potter County have been cited for disorderly conduct for an incident taking place at around 3:00 am Saturday. Troopers claim the suspects created a disturbance and annoyed residents of the Cherry Springs area by firing numerous rounds of ammunition over a prolonged period of time in response to each others shooting of increased intensity. Charges have been field before District Judge Annette Easton against 23 year old Anthony Ouimet, Jr of Perkasie; 24year old Travis Shaak of Quakertown, occupants of one camp; and 28 year old Brian Ruoss of Gilberstville, 28 year old Robert Youst III of Collegeville, 22 year old Isaiah Lenko of Reading and 36 year old Joseph Weinhold of Terre Hill, PA.

Mansfield-based state police are continuing their investigation into an assault allegedly taking place about 1:30 am Sunday in the parking lot of the Of Elms Tavern in Tioga Township. Jeffrey Schmidt, 36, of Lawrenceville told authorities he was assaulted b three unknown persons during an encounter in the parking lot.

A theft taking place over the past three weeks at a residence on the Odin Road, about two miles west of Route 872 in Keating Township, Potter County is under investigation by state police here. Thieves took a 1960’s baker’s bowl from the home of Clay Rinehart. It’s described as being made of ½” thick aluminum; has a 43” diameter and is 24” deep. The bowl weighs about 100 pounds and has a rolled lip around the top….Anyone with information is asked to call the Coudersport Barracks at 814-274-8690.

Troopers at Mansfield are investigating the theft of 14 f’ x 50’ rolls of bridge membrane from the construction Route 6 at the Elk Run tributary bridge in Sullivan Township last week. The membrane belonged to Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc. of Montoursville and is valued at $1400. State police are also probing the theft of about $50 worth of items, including plates, bowls, coffee mugs and wine glasses from a mobile home owned by Lewis Homes last week.

Two more people have been charged with criminal trespass after allegedly being found on property owned by Dennis Zinck in Clara Township this past Friday.. Charges have been filed against Hugo Acosta, 31 and Eliazar Vallejo, 27, both of Houston, Texas. Earlier this month, three people, all employees of Geokinetics, were charged with being on Zinck’s property without his permission. One of them, was found to be a fugitive from justice wanted in Texas.

The peregrine falcon has firmly reestablished itself in the Commonwealth 50 years after its near extinction. But the Pennsylvania Game Commission wants peregrines to occupy more of their historic nesting sites before removing them from the state’s endangered species.

This year’s 29 nests compare to the 40 or more sites they used annually in the early 1900s, because it represents substantial progress. But only four of the 2010 nests are on cliffs, which was where almost all of their nests were located prior to their dramatic decline after World War II. Biologists believe lasting peregrine population stability is directly related to reclaiming the cliffs where they’re less susceptible to the unique mortalities associated with living on manmade structures directly over large rivers and above cities.

Back in 1964, the peregrine falcon finally lost its grip on what remained of its fading existence in the eastern United States. That year, extensive fieldwork throughout the eastern United States – which once supported an estimated 350-400 nesting pairs of peregrines – failed to turn up one occupied nesting territory. The fastest animal on Earth was gone east of the Mississippi to the Atlantic. In 1975, North America’s population was 324 nesting pairs, which was 80-90 percent below historical levels.
DDT was the biggest problem peregrines and many other birds – from bluebirds to bald eagles – faced. Its widespread use began shortly after World War II and continued into the mid 1960s. Twenty-three of the 29 known active nests in Pennsylvania successfully fledged young peregrines this year. The number of total active nests and 23 nests fledging young are both records for Pennsylvania’s ongoing recovery period. This year, 62 young falcons have fledged. A record 68 peregrines fledged from Pennsylvania nests in 2009.
To learn more about this Pennsylvania endangered species and others, visit the Game Commission’s website at www.pgc.state.pa.us and select “Endangered Species.”

If your weekend plans include back to school shopping, the Potter County EMA suggests you pick up items for an emergency preparedness kit as well At a minimum, have the basic supplies listed below. Keep supplies in an easy-to-carry container that you can use at home or take with you in case you must evacuate.

No One was hurt in a three-vehicle collision Wednesday night on Route 120 in Emporium. State police there said the collision occurred when Tanya McCurley of Emporium pulled her Saturn out from a stopped position into the path of a Ford Expedition driven by Brian Kite also of Emporium. After impact, McCurley’s car struck a parked unattended Dodge Intrepid. She has been cited for improperly entering or crossing a roadway

Minor injuries were reported for another Emporium driver following a one vehicle weather related accident Sunday morning on Route 46 in Shippen Township. Troopers said Douglas Housler was headed north on Route 46 near Old North Creek road when his Pontiac Bonneville went out of control on the wet road whle making a sweeping left hand curve. The car went off the road and struck an embankment and rolled over onto its roof. Housler was wearing a seatbelt and escaped injury but he’s being cited for failing to stay within his lane.

Another Emporium resident escaped injury in a Tioga County mishap Tuesday morning. State police at Mansfield said 27 year old Ryan Snyder was headed west on Route 6 in Richmond Township when his Chevrolet Silverado went off the road and onto the berm colliding with a section on guardrails….

Troopers at Emporium say they got rid of a couple of marijuana plants earlier this week. The suspected pot was found near the Tannery Heights Road in Shippen Township Monday afternoon and the investigation is continuing.

An elderly Tioga County man was bilked out of some money recently according to state police at Mansfield. An unknown crook from the United Kingdom convinced 76 year old Lester Crumb of Covington to wire a significant amount of money to him. Troopers used the incident to remind everyone to use caution when receiving calls from unknown persons asking to have money be sent overseas.

Several recent burglaries across the region are being investigated by state police.Thieves burglarized a camp on Swing Gate Road in Deerfield Township in late July. It’s not known what was taken from the camp owned by Jackie Fisher of Milton, PA. Someone took two 2” x 8” x 14’ boards from the front lawn of the Sue Ripley residence on Round Top Road in Charleston Township this past Monday or Tuesday. The boards are valued at $25. Someone took a spool of wire from a residence on Route 49 in Deerfield Township Tioga County over the past couple of weeks. The home is owned by William Roosa of Knoxville. All of the incidents are being investigated by state police at Mansfield. Troopers at Emporium are probing the theft of a canoe and other items from outside a camp on Kephart Lane off of Route 872 in Grove Township since July 31. The camp is owned by John Galinac of Wellsboro. And, a criminal mischief at the Tom Mix Campground in Gibson Township, Cameron County is also under investigation by state police at Emporium. Sometime Tuesday or Wednesday, vandals damaged a phone and aluminum flagpole at the office building of the Tom Mix Campground owned by Kenneth Lucas, Sr. of Grassflat, PA.

PennDOT and State, Local Police Target Impaired Drivers in Crackdown
More than 600 municipal police departments and Pennsylvania State Police will target impaired drivers during the national impaired driving campaign, which starts Aug. 20 and continues through Labor Day.According to PennDOT, statewide there were more than 450 alcohol-related crashes and 16 fatalities on the weekends surrounding the Labor Day holiday last year.PennDOT reminds motorists that DUI convictions carry strong penalties that include fines, jail time and license suspension.
Repeat offenders also are required to equip their vehicles with ignition interlock systems after serving a one-year license suspension. Ignition interlock requires drivers to blow into the device in order to start the vehicle. If the device detects alcohol, it prevents the vehicle from starting. The device also tests drivers at random times during the subsequent operation of the vehicle.
Individuals are required to pay all program-related costs, which include installation, routine monitoring and maintenance of the interlock device at a service center. These costs average approximately $1,000.More than 5,700 Pennsylvania drivers currently have ignition interlock systems. Last year, these systems prevented more than 47,000 impaired driving attempts and logged more than 45-million sober miles driven.More information on ignition interlocks and impaired driving is available online at www.DriveSafePA.org<http://www.DriveSafePA.org>.

Pennsylvania Firm Working on ALS Cure
A Pittsburgh start-up company that received an early investment from one of Pennsylvania's most dynamic resources has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement to help find the cure for Lou Gehrig's disease, or ALS, Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Austin Burke announced this week.Knopp Neurosciences-a portfolio company of Innovation Works, the Ben Franklin Technology Partner of southwestern Pennsylvania-entered into a $345 million worldwide licensing agreement with Biogen Idec, making it one of the largest pharmaceutical deals in the nation this year.Under the deal, the two companies will work collaboratively to develop Knopp's experimental drug treatment, dexpramipexole.
Innovation Works invested $300,000 in Knopp in 2006-making it Knopp's first and only early-stage investor-to help the company complete its Food and Drug Administration requirements, finalize research contracts and initiate operations. This initial investment also helped the company more than double its employment, growing from seven to 16 well-paying jobs.
With the Biogen Idec agreement, Knopp operations will remain in Pittsburgh and the company is expected to expand.Michael Bozik, M.D., president and CEO of Knopp, today said his company's new deal "affirms the value of state-supported biotech investments."Under the agreement, Biogen Idec will lead the development of the drug and its potential commercialization in global markets. Biogen Idec will purchase $60 million of Knopp stock; provide an upfront payment of $20 million; make additional payments of up to $256 million based on development and sales; and pay tiered, double-digit royalties to Knopp on worldwide sales.

We pass this information along because we know of several recent ALS deaths in the Black Forest Service area and there will be a walk this Sunday in Scio, NY to benefit ALS research. Check our Calendar of Events for details

U.S. Representative Glenn `GT’ Thompson, R-Howard is reminding high school seniors that October 1, 2010, is the deadline for high school seniors to apply for nomination through the Bellefonte District Office for acceptance into one of the four military academies for the year 2011.

“Thompson’s website: www.thompson.house.gov has all the information on the application process under the title of “services,” including an on-line application.

The basic requirements for applying for a nomination are: the candidate must be at least 17 years old but not have passed his or her 23^rd birthday; must be a U.S. citizen; must be unmarried, not pregnant, and without legal obligation to support children or other dependents; must reside within the boundaries of the 5^th Congressional District of Pennsylvania; and must be able to meet the medical, physical and academic requirements of the academies.

The four academies that accept nominations through U.S. government representatives are: the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York. The remaining U.S. Coast Guard Academy at New London, Connecticut accepts candidates based on its own testing criteria.

If there are questions not answered on the Thompson website, applicants can call (814) 353-0215 and ask for the Academy Coordinator, Susan Gurekovich.

Coudersport-based state police are investigating a couple of recent burglaries.Thieves entered two buildings on the property of James and Linda Lane along the West Branch of Dingman Run Road in Eulalia Township over the past weekend. The thieves entered one building by cutting a padlock and the second by break in a small window. Burglars threw two rocks through two windows at a camp on the Bark Shanty Road over the weekend. After gaining entry, they left the camp, owned by Norman Castagnari of Pittsburgh a back door. Police did not say if anything was taken from either location but anyone with information is asked to call the Coudersport barracks at 814-274-8690.

Troopers at two barracks in the Black Forest Service area have enlisted the help of Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers to solve a couple of cases. The Pennsylvania State Police, Troop F, Mansfield, continue their investigation of a theft of a motor vehicle, receiving stolen property, criminal mischief, and arson. On August 9, 2010, an unknown suspect(s) stole the victim’s Ford F-250, extended cab pickup truck which was later located with its wheels and tires removed and the vehicle was burned. There have been several vehicles from the Mansfield area that have been stolen and later recovered, some of which have been set fire. The Pennsylvania State Police, Troop C, Ridgeway, continue their investigation of Arson that occurred at a residence located on First Avenue in Johnsonburg Borough, Elk County, Pennsylvania.

On July 23, 2010, at 3:45 a.m., an unknown suspect(s) ignited an old mattress that was against the outside of the residence. The damage was to the exterior wall of the residence. At the time of the incident the residence was occupied by adults and children.

PENNSYLVANIA CRIME STOPPERS IS OFFERING A CASH REWARD FOR INFORMATION LEADING TO AN ARREST IN These CASE OF THEFT OF A MOTOR VEHICLE, RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY, CRIMINAL MISCHIEF, AND ARSON.

WHAT YOU CAN DO: If you have information on this incident or any serious crime or wanted person, call Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers Toll Free at 1-800-4PA-TIPS. All callers remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.

Attorney General Tom Corbett y announced this that the Attorney General’s Health Care Section has reached a $250,000 consumer protection settlement with the CVS Pharmacy chain addressing complaints that expired over the counter drugs, infant formula, baby food, dairy products and other food items were sold at stores in Pennsylvania.Corbett said the agreement with Pennsylvania CVS Pharmacy and White Cross Stores Inc. No 14, known as an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance, requires the pharmacy chain to take a number of steps to prevent items from being sold after their listed “sell by” or “expiration dates.”Corbett said CVS is required to provide coupons for $2.00 off any future purchase to any consumers who find expired products offered for sale at a CVS store in Pennsylvania. Those consumers must notify a CVS employee about the expired product and present the expired item to a store employee or cashier.

Additionally, Corbett said the settlement includes a $150,000 payment from CVS, which will be distributed by the Attorney General’s Office to organizations that provide assistance to Pennsylvania families by distributing baby food, infant formula, dairy products and over the counter drugs. The AVC also includes $100,000 that will be used by the Attorney General’s Office for future consumer protection and education activities.

Corbett said the settlement requires CVS to institute a system to ensure that expired products are not sold, including:

-       Daily inspection of all dairy products at CVS stores.
-       Regular inspections of other products and removal of items that are within 60 days of their expiration dates (This includes all items related to allergy treatment, baby feeding, children’s remedies, cold remedies, oral hygiene products, pain relievers, stomach remedies and all other over the counter drugs that contain expiration dates).
-       Prominent notices in all stores reminding customers to check the “sell by” and “expiration” dates, and to notify CVS employees immediately if customers find expired products.
-       Automatic prompts in store cash register systems requiring cashiers to verify expiration dates before items can be sold (expired products may not be sold).
-       Training and certification for all store managers and employees involved in stocking baby food, infant formula, dairy products and over the counter drugs.
-       Regular audits of CVS stores to verify compliance with the settlement.

Corbett said consumers with questions or complaints concerning expired products at CVS stores should contact the Attorney General’s Health Care Section at 1-877-888-4877 or file an online complaint using the Attorney General’s website, at www.attorneygeneral.gov<http://www.attorneygeneral.gov> (Click on the “Complaints” button on the front page of the website and select the “Health Care Complaint Form”).

The Assurance of Voluntary Compliance was filed today in Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas by Deputy Attorney General Timothy E. Gates, of the Attorney General’s Health Care Section.

You no doubt have heard about the recall of some 380 million eggs. While the salmonella outbreak has been associated with eggs from Wright County Egg in Galt Iowa, illness has been centered in only three states—California, Colorado and Minnesota. The eggs are packaged under the names Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph's, Boomsma's, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms and Kemp and were distributed all over the country. Hillandale brand eggs are distributed in the Black Forest Service area.

A fugitive from justice, wanted in Texas, was apprehended last Friday morning by Coudersport Based state police at the Mill Stream Inn on East Second Street in Coudersport while they were conducting an investigation into another incident. 33 year old Jorge Posadas was taken into custody without incident and is being charged locally with Arrest prior to requisition. The charge has been filed before District Judge Annette Easton. Troopers were interviewing Posadas in connection to a gas drilling related criminal trespass in Clara Township on the morning of August 9. Posadas, 40 year old Celestina Amaya Chavez, and 31 year old Edgar Otero, all of Texas, as employees of Geokinetics allegedly placed a line on property owned by Dennis Zinck of Shinglehouse without his permission. Criminal trespass and burglary charges against the survey team have been filed before District Judge Barbara Easton.

Criminal trespass charges have also been filed against 21 year old Kyle Bonneau of Roulette for an incident allegedly taking place Saturday afternoon on Main Street tin that village. Sate police allege Bonneau drove an ATV and large wheeled motorcycle on property owned by Jonathan Huff without his permission. Bonneau has been charged with trespassing by motor vehicle, and violating laws concerning liability insurance, registration of snowmobile or ATV, safe operation of a vehicle and driving while operating privilege suspended, driving without a license.

Troopers locally are looking for the thief or thieves who took money from at least three people last weekend during the Community Yard Sale being held at the Genesee fire hall. Thieves took $191 from Wanda Wight, $40 from Kimberly Inzana of Genesee and $130 from the Genesee Firemen’s Ladies Auxiliary…..Anyone with information is asked to call Coudersport Barracks at 814-274-8690.

Potter County Commissioner Paul Heimel will be among three county commissioners participating in a free web-based Marcellus Shale Webinar. Heimel will be joined byMark Smith of Bradford County, Pamela Tokar-Ickes of Somerset County during the program entitled "Local Natural Gas Task ForceInitiatives," which will air at 1 p.m. on Aug. 19. Sponsored by Penn State Cooperative Extension, the "webinar" will provide an overview of how county task forces are responding to the ramp-up of shale-gas exploration in their respective
counties. Information about how to register for the webinar is available athttp://extension.psu.edu/naturalgas/webinars. Online participants will have the opportunity to ask the speakers questions
during the session.While so far this year Somerset County has fewer than 10 active wells and the state
has issued 28 permits for new wells in the county, Bradford County by contrast has
more than 350 active wells and 1,083 newly-issued well permits in 2010, according to
Commissioner Mark Smith. He said his county also holds more than 300 well-pad sites
containing 1,000 proposed wells, and gas companies already have installed
approximately 85 miles of large transport lines and 300 miles of gathering lines for
natural gas. He said the industry also has put in 21 miles of water lines, 21 water
withdrawal sites and 35 water impoundment ponds.
Potter County falls somewhere in the middle, picking up more momentum as Marcellus
activity moves westward,
although the intensity of exploration is still similar to
that in Somerset County. Commissioner Paul Heimel said his county had only a dozen
working wells at the beginning of 2010, but 17 more wells have been drilled since
then, bringing the total to 29. Industry leaders, according to Heimel have said
many more are coming.

Previous webinars, which covered topics such as water use and quality, zoning, and
gas-leasing considerations for landowners and implications for local communities,
can be viewed at http://extension.psu.edu/naturalgas/webinars.

For more information, contact Joann Kowalski, extension educator in Susquehanna
County, at (570) 278-1158 or by e-mail at jmk20@psu.edu<mailto:jmk20@psu.edu>.

Monday’s high, 49; Overnight low, 49; no precip. (.06” on Fishing Creek)

Kane-based state police have charged 37 year old Ralph Strouse, Jr. of Dover, PA with speeding and hit and run offenses following a one-vehicle crash early Sunday morning on Route 321 in Wetmore Township. Troopers said Strouse was speeding when his Volkswagen Jetta went out of control on a right hand curve, crossed to the other side of the road, struck a curb and flipped onto its side. Authorities claim Strouse fled the scene and failed to notify authorities.

A teenage driver is being cited for having bald tires on his car following a weather-related crash Sunday morning on Route 14 in Union Township, Tioga County. State police said the 16year old boy from Grantville, PA was headed south when he drove through a puddle of standing water and his Ford Focus hydroplaned off the road and struck an embankment. The driver and his 15 year old passenger from Canton were wearing seatbelts and escaped injury.

Another teen driver is being cited for careless driving for a collision Saturday morning on Route 249 in Brookfield Township, Tioga County. State police said the 17 year old boy from Woodull, NY turned his eastbound Hyundai Elantra onto Route 249 in front of a Toyota Raval driven by Sandra Jarvis of Rochester, NY causing the vehicles to collide at the intersection. Jarvis and her passengers, Victoria Simpson and Luke Hammond, both of Rochester, NY escaped injury. Police said both drives and the passengers were wearing seatbelts.

Metal thefts are in the news today. Kane based state police are continuing their investigation into a theft taking place between July 26 and August 6 at Norton Electric on Looker Mountain Trail in Rixford. Thieves entered Terry Norton’s shop through a window and stole four five gallon buckets of scrap copper valued at $520. And, State police at Mansfield are probing the theft of a catalytic converter from a 1999 Ford Truck owned by Nickerson Construction of Blossburg last week. Thieves removed the unit sometime between 6:00 pm Sunday, August 8 and 8:00 am the next day while the truck was parked on Bloss Mountain Road. No value was given.

Agency Establishes Thermal Limits on Cooling Water Discharge to West Branch Susquehanna River

The Department of Environmental Protection has announced that it has renewed the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit for RRI Energy Mid-Atlantic Power Holdings LLC’s Shawville Power Plant in Bradford Township, Clearfield County. For the first time, the permit establishes thermal limits on RRI Energy’s discharge of 426 million gallons per day of non-contact cooling water to the West Branch Susquehanna River and includes a compliance schedule for meeting those limits. “DEP received several dozen comments during the past year from environmental and conservation organizations, as well as individuals, requesting that thermal limits be placed on RRI Energy’s non-contact cooling water discharge because it threatened the health of aquatic life in the West Branch Susquehanna River,” said DEP North-central Regional Director Nels Taber.

DEP determined that thermal limits were necessary based on in-stream water quality criteria in Pennsylvania’s Water Quality Standards (Chapter 93) regulations.

The discharge permit, which is valid for five years, establishes daily maximum thermal limits that vary by month or twice monthly. The limits range from a low of 8,279 million British thermal units per day in December to 35,186 million Btu per day during the last two weeks of May.

A British thermal unit is the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit.

The compliance schedule included in the permit requires RRI Energy to submit its selected alternative for meeting the thermal limits to DEP in two months. The company’s discharge may not exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit at any point of the river accessible to the general public by June 1, 2011, and may not change the temperature of the river by more than two degrees Fahrenheit in any one-hour period within three years of the permit’s issuance. The specific monthly thermal limits in the permit must be met within three years.

The NPDES permit establishes effluent limitations for other parameters such as dissolved metals, pH and total suspended solids. It also includes monitoring, record-keeping and reporting requirements for six additional discharge points, and five internal monitoring points at the Shawville Power Plant.

Lawmakers seek public input on ag research, Chesapeake Bay at Ag Progress Days
Three members of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee from Pennsylvania will hold a public forum at 2 p.m. on Aug. 17 at Penn State's Ag Progress Days.
Reps. Tim Holden, Kathy Dahlkemper and Glenn Thompson will be on hand to hear comments from university and agriculture officials about issues surrounding research on energy, specialty crops, conservation and hardwoods.
The forum will take place in the "Red Barn" near the top of Main Street on the Ag Progress Days site at Rock Springs. Although the forum is not a formal committee hearing, testimony will be entered into the Congressional Record.
State lawmakers also will solicit public comments at Ag Progress Days. The Agriculture and Rural Affairs committees of the Pennsylvania House and Senate will hold a joint public hearing at 10 a.m. on Aug. 18 in the College of Agricultural Sciences Exhibits Building Theater, also on Main Street. The hearing will focus on restoration of the Chesapeake Bay and efforts to improve water quality in the bay's watershed, which includes much of Pennsylvania.
Sponsored by the College of Agricultural Sciences, Penn State's Ag Progress Days is held at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, nine miles southwest of State College on Route 45. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 17; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 18; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Aug. 19. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit the Ag Progress Days Web site at http://apd.psu.edu.

Twitter users can find and share information about the event by using the hashtag #agprogress.

Frances V. Williams Knapp, 84, of 5441 Route 957, Russell, Pa., went to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at Golden Living Center-Kinzua.

Frances was born in Sayre, Pa., on August 2, 1926, a daughter of the late Irma (Hall) and Gilbert Valentine. She was the wife of the Late Robert C. Knapp.

She was a member of the Lander United Methodist Church, and worked for the Warren County School District as an aid, at Slagle and Almendinger Construction and for Barrett's Garage.

She was a member of the Russell Knitting Club, loved spending her time with her family, gardening and reading and was known for her love of cooking.

Frances is survived by two daughters: Jane (Samuel) Crossley of Coudersport, Pa. and Jean (John) Olsen of Russell, Pa.; two sons: Edwin (Peggy) Williams of Indiana, Pa. and Daniel (Jennifer) Williams of Pflugerville, Texas; a stepdaughter, Connie (Scottie) Jenkinson, of Warren, Pa.; a stepson, Dennis (and his female partner Jo Singhas) Knapp of Youngsville, Pa., a sister, Hilkka Valentine, of New Mexico; and a brother, James (Connie) Valentine of Maryland. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, three stepgreat-grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother William Valentine and her ex-husband Theodore Williams.

Friends are invited to a time of remembrance on Wednesday, August 18, 2010, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Lander United Methodist Church. A memorial service will be held at the church at 11 am. Burial will be private in Youngsville Cemetery. McKinney Funeral Homes and Cremation Services Inc, of Sugar Grove, have been entrusted with arrangements. Those wishing make a memorial contribution may do so to the Bear Lake Methodist Church or the Lander United Methodist Church.

Those wishing to sign the online guest book or leave an e-condolence may do so at www.mckinneyfuneral.com.

Richard D. Beckham, 41, of Windfall Road, Eldred, died Friday (Aug. 13, 2010) of injuries sustained in a fourwheeler accident.
Born Nov. 19, 1968, in Fort Pierce, FL, he was a son of George W. and Linda K. Hahn Beckham. On July 13, 1991, at the Eldred United Methodist Church he married Kelly Booth, who survives.
Mr. Beckham was a 1988 graduate of Otto-Eldred High School and was a lifetime resident of the Eldred area. He had been employed by Elliott Lumber Co. in Roulette as a supervisor. He was later employed by Olean Sun Inc. in Olean, NY, as an installation technician.
He enjoyed trap shooting, fourwheeling and welding and fabrication.
Surviving in addition to his wife are his father of Eldred; two sons, Nathan Booth and Justin Beckham, both at home; one daughter, Lindsee Beckham, at home; one brother, Griff (Nichole) Beckham of Eldred; and one niece and one nephew.
He was predeceased by his mother June 18, 2001.
Friends are invited to attend a memorial service to be held at 5 p.m., Tuesday (Aug. 17, 2010) at the Eldred United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Jay Tennies, officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Frame Funeral Home, Eldred.

Sunday’s high, 72; Overnight low, 70; .59” rain (1.93” weekend total on Fishing Creek)

Mansfield-based state police are looking for the driver of a truck or tractor trailer which lost a five gallon can of Universal Tractor Fluid causing the death of a Michigan motorcyclists Saturday afternoon. Troopers said 47 year old Richard Mariles of Taylor Michigan was killed when he was thrown off of his BMW K1200LT after it encountered the fluid on Route 362 just north of Forest Road in Shippen Township at about 3:00 pm. The cycle rotated clockwise and rolled causing Mariles to be ejected. He was taken to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro where he was pronounced dead. State police are asking anyone who may have seen the vehicle or who may have additional information to contact them at 570-662-2151.

An Emporium woman is being charged with speeding following a crash last Thursday afternoon on Route 120 in Driftwood. Emporium based state police released details overnight saying Beverly Jones was traveling east when her Honda CRV went out of control on a left hand curve, and struck an embankment. Both Jones and her passenger, Joseph Jones escaped injury.

Minor injuries were reported for an Emporium man following a weather-related crash Sunday morning on Route 46 in Shippen Township, Cameron County. State police said Douglas Housler was headed north when his vehicle went out of control on a sweeping left hand curve, went off the rain –slicked road and rolled onto its roof. Housler was wearing a seatbelt at the time, police said.

A Shinglehouse man escaped injury when his pick up truck caught fire on the Herring Road in Sharon Township last Thursday afternoon. State police said Douglas Bluavelt was going west when his Dodge Ram 1500 caught fire, resulting in extensive damage.

No one was hurt in a vehicle fire in a Shinglehouse garage Sunday afternoon. Shinglehouse Fire Chief Doug Estes told Black Forest Broadcasting that firefighters were called to the Don Hunt residence on South Stevens Street for a garage fire at about 3:30 pm. Chief Estes said Hunt was working on his truck when sparks from his welding torch ignited the truck .Hunt was able to move the truck outside and douse the fire before firefighters arrived. Damage to the truck and some items inside the garage amounted to about $1000 his pick up when a blaze.

The state police fire marshal has determined that a fire which destroyed a two-story steel frame camp off of Route 770 West in Bradford Township Saturday was intentionally set. The camp was owned by Cline Oil of Bradford. Damage is estimated to be $50,000.

Mansfield-based state police have charged 36 year old Michael Payne of Marietta, Oklahoma with DUI, fleeing or attempting to eluded police, reckless endangerment and 14 other traffic violations after stopping him early Saturday morning in Putnam Township. Troopers alleged they followed Payne for about six miles to the Arnot Road in Bloss Township, clocking him at 100 miles per hour at times.

Troopers at Kane are investigating the theft of a pair of Alpen brand 8.5 x 50 green binoculars Friday night or Saturday morning from a vehicle parked along Main Street in Mt. Jewett. The binoculars belonged to Derek Carlson and are valued at $400.00.

A Coudersport woman was released on $20,.000 unsecured bail after being arraigned yesterday before District Judge Richard Luther in McKean County on charges that she defrauded Medicaid. The state attorney General alleges 27 year old Karie Lynn Kohlmyer of Dividing Ridge Road committed Medicaid fraud and theft by fraud last summer by billing some $4600 for services not rendered while she was employed by Sagewood Counseling and Psychological services. Kohlmeyer is being represented by Coudersport attorney George Stenhach and waived her case into court.

Coudersport-based state police are looking for a tractor-trailer which knocked over a stop sign Thursday morning at an intersection in Ulysses Township. Troopers said the rig had a black cab and was hauling a large dump trailer when it ran into the sign while turning off of Route 449 onto Fox Hill Road at about 10:45 am. The driver failed to notify authorities as required by law.

Mansfield-based state police are investigating the theft of some items from a Jeep parked at the Lambs Creek Boat Launch parking area between 3:00 and 8:00 pm Tuesday. Cash, a Nikon camera and wallet were taken from the vehicle owned by Kyle Atkinson and Rachel Carlson of Blossburg.

Timothy P. Graves, 53, of Harrison Valley, was sentenced Monday in Tioga County Court to 12 months' supervision for unsworn falsification to authorities. Graves was charged by state police after an incident April 2, 2009, at the Hunter's Supply, Knoxville, during which he attempted to purchase a firearm by making two false statements on the purchase application.

Brian K. Kline, 39, of Knoxville, has been sentenced to county prison Monday in Tioga County Court for stalking. Kline was charged with stalking twice by Elkland Borough police on July 17, 2009, and Nov. 14, 2009.On the first charge, he was reported by a co-worker at K and W Medplast, in Westfield, for making inappropriate comments about her, following her around and constantly staring at her.On the second stalking charge, police said he followed a victim in his vehicle in November 2009, called her on the phone and followed her after a movie in town let out.Kline was sentenced to Tioga County Prison for seven to 23 months and fined $200.After being charged, he was found to be drinking alcohol July 22 at the Knoxville VFW, so Kline's bail of $10,000 was revoked.

Website Features Affordable, Family-Friendly Agritourism Roadtrips in PA
There's still enough summer remaining for Pennsylvanians to plan a fun road trip to agricultural destinations statewide through Keystone Country, an interactive website at www.visitPA.com/KeystoneCountry<http://www.visitpa.com/KeystoneCountry>, Governor Edward G. Rendell has declared August as "Agritourism Month" in Pennsylvania, citing Pennsylvania's two leading industries - the $61 billion agriculture industry and $27 billion tourism industry.
Agritourism connects the public to the state's 115 county and community fairs; six horse and harness race tracks; 1,200 farm markets, farm stands and pick-your-own operations; 120 wineries and wine trails; and 50 farm-stays and bed and breakfasts that have ties to agriculture.Consumers can also visit local restaurants that use PA Preferred products, tour some of the state's renowned arboretums and botanical gardens, visit a historic barn, explore a corn maze and pumpkin patch, or cut a fresh Christmas tree.In addition to road trips, Keystone Country features interactive maps with links to farm stays, farmers markets, fairs and wineries, and a personal roadtrip planner.For more information about Pennsylvania agriculture, visit www.agriculture.state.pa.us<http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/>.

Jane D. Sevinsky, 96, of Coudersport, PA died Thursday, August 12, 2010 at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport.Born on June 24, 1914 in Pittsburgh, PA she was the daughter of John and Antionette Osika Mroczka. On May 14, 1940 in Pittsburgh, she married Steven “Jack” Sevinsky, who died on August 9, 1998.Mrs. Sevinsky had lived in Coudersport for the past 40 years, coming to the area from Pittsburgh. While in Pittsburgh she was employed as a dietician and cook in the area schools and had also worked in a dress shop. She had fostered many children. She was a member of St. Eulalia Catholic Church and Court Doyle 932 Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Surviving are her sister, Emily Milanek of Florida, many nieces and nephews including Connie Keay and her husband, Gary, of Pittsburgh, PA, and Damien Milanek of W. Palm Beach, FL., and special friends Lou and Linda Karija of Coudersport. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother, Joe Mroczka and one sister, Helen Peszko.Friends may call from 2-4pm and 6-8pm Sunday, August 15, 2010 at the Fickinger Funeral Home in Coudersport. Friends may also call on Monday from 12Noon until 1:00pm at which time a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with the Reverend James Campbell, pastor, as celebrant. Burial will be in St. Eulalia Catholic Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Eulalia Catholic Church, 6 E. Maple Street, Coudersport, PA 16915.

A 67 year old Roulette man has been sentenced a total of 13 to 36 years in prison after pleading guilty to numerous sexual assault charges involving two young victims. Potter County Judge Stephen Minor also ordered 67 year old Eugene Meacham to pay $3500 in fines after he pleaded guilty to aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault, and corruption of minors. Meacham admitted to state police that during the summer of 2008, he sexually assaulted a 12 year old victim at his residence on two separate occasions for the first case; and that on August 1, 2009, he sexually assaulted a young girl in his home. During the attack, the girl was able to lock herself in Meacham’s bathroom and call for help. The cases were prosecuted by Potter County District Attorney Andy Watson.

Mansfield-based state police are advising residents in the Mansfield/Blossburg area to lock their vehicles and remove any valuable items from them as there have been a number of vehicle thefts recently. Police say some cars have been recovered and some of those have been damaged or burned. One such vehicle was a 2000 Ford F-250 extended cab pick up belonging to Ronald Wood of Mansfield which was taken early Tuesday morning from his home along Gorwood Road in Mansfield. The truck was later found along the Pazzaglia Road in Rutland Township and almost all of the combustible materal inside the truck had burned. Police say due to the extensive damage, no determination can be made as to the cause or origin of the blaze. Anyone with information is asked to call the Mansfield Barracks at 570-662-2151.

A fire which totally destroyed a Knoxville mobile home Sunday evening is also being probed by state police at Mansfield. A neighbor noticed flames at the home of Mildred Davenport on Route 49 at about 7:15 pm and called 911. Knoxville Volunteer Fire Fighters responded to the call and extinguished the blaze. Authorities say even though the shell remains standing, the home and its contents are a total loss and the cause remains under investigation.

Rep. Martin Causer's (R-Turtlepoint) district offices in Bradford and Coudersport will be closed on Friday, Aug. 13, for his annual senior expo to be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Sports and Fitness Building gymnasium. Causer said his staff will have a table set up at the expo to answer questions about the many state assistance programs available to older Pennsylvanians. Dozens of other businesses and organizations will also offer valuable information at the expo, and a free lunch will be served. Causer's district offices will be closed all day on Aug. 13, but people in need of immediate assistance may call the Harrisburg office at 717-787-5075. The district offices will reopen for regular hours on Monday, Aug. 16. The offices are located at 78 Main Street, 1^st floor, in Bradford, and 107 South Main Street in Coudersport.

The Potter County Planning passes along information from Michael Wennin the Executive Director of the Lumber Heritage Region that the 12 county Pennsylvania WILDS initiative is beginning to see results. Wennin says hotel rooms (this does not take into account campsites, cabins and lodges) sold in the PA WILDS was up in 2008 6.5% (954,000 total rooms) with a 12% increase in revenue ($71.3 M) from these rooms. This is significant in that some of the state’s traditional vacation destinations saw a decline. All of the festivals and events in the region experienced increased or sustained visitation last year during a time of high gas prices. In spite of the economy, this year has seen some incredible increases so far in attendance and participation in area events. Groundhog Day 2009 saw 13,500 visitors. The Chapman State Park Winterfest had 12,800 participants- up 2000 from 2008. The Chain Saw Carving Rendezvous saw 20,150 visitors and raised $45,900 at their closing day auction. The Kinzua Outdoor Show saw over 6000 attendees, an increase of some 1200 people. The Cameron County Canoe and Kayak Classic had close to 200 boats in the water up from 124 last year. In Clinton County applications were closed early for the Hyner Run Challenge as more than 770 people had signed up for the event- up 150 from last year. Maple Syrup Weekend in Potter and Tioga Counties saw double the number of visitors at some of the open Sugar Shacks with several hundred people from as far away as Maryland participating in the event. Various cabin rental locations in the region are already booked for the season and Interstate 80 hotels are holding their own which is significant in that other destination hotels are experiencing a decrease in overnight stays.

One of the regions many success stories is the opening of the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce and Artisan Center that has seen sales of upwards of $20,000 since it opened last July. The Center was created by the Chamber to participate in the PA WILDS Artisan Trail and represents over 50 local artisans. For more information visit the website at www.pawilds.com

Michael Wennin is the Executive Director of the Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) The LHR is one of the Commonwealth’s 12 Heritage Areas dedicated to preserving, relating, and enhancing the history and heritage of the people and their relationship with Pennsylvania’s forests. The LHR office is located in the Cameron County Courthouse in Emporium. For more information visit their website at www.lumberheritage.org

Elvin S. “Corky” Burdick, 74, of Roulette, PA died Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport. Born on September 24, 1935 in Coudersport, he was the son of Arden Randolph and Leta M. Hancock Burdick. On June 5, 1954 on Crandall Hill he married Dorothy Springer who survives. Mr. Burdick was a 1952 graduate of Coudersport High School. He had lived in Coudersport for many years where he owned and operated Corky’s Collision. He was an avid bowler and was a former member of the Seventh Day Baptist Church of Hebron. He had lived in Roulette since 1998.Surviving in addition to his wife are three sons, Rick (Denise) Burdick of Bristol, VA, Randall Burdick of Piney Flats, TN, and Daniel (Betty) Burdick of Bristol, TN, one daughter, Tammy (Ronald) Gaines of Roulette, PA, seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, James Burdick, who died in January of 2005, one brother, Arden J. Burdick, and a sister, Shirley Miller.

The Agriculture department’s Emerald Ash Borer survey crews on May 21. began hanging nearly 6,000 purple panel traps from ash trees in 21 counties designed to attract flying adult beetles to help detect further spread and apparently the survey is working because the department this week expanded a quarantine intended to prevent the spread of the invasive, tree-killing Emerald Ash Borer. The national survey is conducted in cooperation with U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, the United States Forest Service, and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Bureau of Forestry. The pest has been found in two additional counties. Cumberland County at the Pennsylvania Turnpike mile marker 226 near Carlisle, and in Gregg Township, Union County. The Emerald Ash Borer has now been found in 17 counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Butler, Centre, Cumberland, Fulton, Indiana, Juniata, Lawrence, Mercer, Mifflin, Somerset, Union, Washington and Westmoreland. The Agriculture Department has expanded its quarantine to include 31 counties, including the six where the beetle has been found this year and others that are contiguous. Those counties are: Blair, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Columbia, Crawford, Cumberland, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Jefferson, Lycoming, McKean, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Potter, Snyder, Somerset, Tioga, Union, Venango and Warren.Campers and travelers are reminded to follow the quarantine within the 43 counties and across the state to help limit the further spread of the beetle by not hauling firewood between counties.The quarantine is intended to restrict the movement of ash nursery, green lumber, and any other ash material, including logs, stumps, roots and branches, from the quarantine area. Because it is difficult to distinguish between species of hardwood firewood, all hardwood firewood and wood chips—including ash, oak, maple and hickory—are considered quarantined. The Emerald Ash Borer poses a serious threat to Pennsylvania’s nation-leading hardwoods industry, which contributes nearly $25 billion to the economy.The wood-boring beetle is native to China and eastern Asia. The pest likely arrived in North America in wooden shipping crates. It was first detected in July 2002 in southeastern Michigan and neighboring Windsor, Ontario, Canada. In addition to Pennsylvania, the beetle is attacking ash trees in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Typically, the Emerald Ash Borer beetles will kill an ash tree within three years of the initial infestation. Adults are dark green, one-half inch in length and one-eighth inch wide, and fly only from early May until September. Larvae spend the rest of the year beneath the bark of ash trees. When they emerge as adults, they leave D-shaped holes in the bark about one-eighth inch wide.People who suspect they have seen Emerald Ash Borer should call the department’s toll-free pest hotline at 1-866-253-7189. For more information about the quarantine, contact Walt Blosser at 717-772-5205, and for more information about Emerald Ash Borer, contact Sven-Erik Spichiger at 717-772-5229. Information is also available at www.agriculture.state.pa.us by searching “Emerald Ash Borer.”

Hunters interested in learning the age of the bear they harvested during the 2009 seasons can log onto the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us). To access the database, click on “Hunt/Trap” in the menu bar at the top of the page, click on “Hunting,” scroll down and click on “Black Bear” in the “Big Game” listing, and then scroll down and click on “Black Bear Age Data” in the “Reference” listing.As a cost-cutting measure, the Game Commission no longer mails a certificate and letter to successful bear hunters notifying them of their bear’s age however, the commission now provides hunters with a certificate at the check station when their bear is processed, and information about how and when they can find the age data, which is determined by examining a tooth from the bear that is extracted as part of the check station processing, on our website.”
Ages are available only for bears from which a tooth was pulled. To access the data and learn the age of their bear, a hunter will need to have their legal seal number from the check station certificate. If the hunter no longer has the seal number, age data also is provided in charts broken down by county of harvest. In 2009, of the nearly 148,000 licensed bear hunters, 3,512 bears were harvested and taken to check stations, which is the second highest harvest recorded in Pennsylvania. The record bear harvest of 4,164 was set in 2005. Instructions on the back of the certificates distributed at check stations to access this data on the agency’s website presently is incorrect. The certificates issued in 2009 were printed and distributed prior to the agency’s transition to a new website format, which has significantly changed the navigation features of the new website.

Agnes McGlinchey, 42, of Niles Hill Road, Coudersport has been committed to the Tioga County Jail on a bench warrant issued for her arrest in Philadelphia. McGlinchey was stopped just after 2:00 am Saturday at the intersection of Route 6 and Water Street in Coudersport by State Police for a traffic violation and allegedly found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. While processing McGlinchey, troopers found she was wanted in Philadelphia on a bench warrant A Coudersport woman is being charged with speeding after her Ford F-150 wrecked McGlinchey was arrested on July 14 for speeding after her northbound her pick up went off the road on a sharp right hand curve on Route 872, struck an embankment and rolled onto the drives side. She was wearing a seatbelt and escaped injury. Earlier this summer, McGlinchey pleaded guilty to public drunkenness and disorderly conduct for fighting before District Judge Annette Easton. Those charges were brought by Coudersport Borough Police.

James Dynda, Jr.,44, of Austin escaped injury Monday night when his pick up truck wrecked on Gas Well Road in Keating Township, Potter County. State police said Dynda overcorrected when the truck went off the road causing it to go to the other side, travele over an embankment and hit a downed tree.

Coudersport-based state police are continuing their investigation into a case of theft by deception taking place over the past few weeks. Ashley Ford of Shinglehouse told authorities he had responded to an ad posted in the “Dollar Saver” for a 2008 Harley Davidson softail Fat Boy motorcycle but never received the machine despite wiring money to pay for it.

Mansfield-based state police are continuing their investigation in a break-in at a camp on Boatman Road in Deerfield Township sometime since Memorial Day. Thieves kicked in the front door at the cabin owned by Russell Lesher of Port Clinton, PA . Once inside, thieves stole a gas powered generator; three Coleman propane lanterns and two Coleman coolers. Anyone with information about the burglary is asked to call state police at 570-662-2151.

A New Castle resident was hurt Saturday afternoon when his motorcycle collided with a passenger car on Route 120 in Shippen Township, Cameron County. State police said 59 year old Philip Lasky failed to stop for a posted stop sign at the intersection of Route 120 and 155 and as a consequence his Kawaskai ZG1000 struck the side of an eastbound car driven by Eugene House of Emporium. Lasky was thrown off the bike upon impact and landed on the road, suffering minor injures. House and his passenger Judy Clark of Downington, PA were unhurt.

No injuries were reported for an Emporium woman whose car wrecked on Route 120 just east of Helrue Drive in Gibson Township early Sunday morning after she swerved to the right to avoid a deer. Troopers said Kristina Grove was going wet when she swerved to avoid the whitetail which came onto the road into the path of her Chevrolet Impala. The car struck a small culvert pipe parallel to the road before coming to rest.

Mansfield-based state police say a Florida driver received minor injuries in a crash Sunday afternoon on the Ladd Road near the Clymer/Westfield Township Lie. Anna Potter of Lake Wales was going south when her Saturn Coupe went out of control on a right hand turn. The car turned sideways and struck an embankment on the east side of the road, then spun counter-clockwise , striking an embankment and wooden fence before rolling over onto its roof. Potter was taken to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital for treatment and is being charged with speeding.

DEP Says Specialized Natural Gas Emergency Responders Locating in PA, Improving Response Times
Recent high-profile accidents at natural gas wells in Pennsylvania have prompted the Department of Environmental Protection to arrange emergency response services with a leading company that is opening a new operation in the state according to an announcement yesterday from DEP Secretary John Hanger. CUDD Well Control will locate a new facility in Canton Township, Bradford County, which means a highly specialized, well-equipped emergency response crew will be approximately five hours from any natural gas well in Pennsylvania according to the announcement.
By comparison, officials say, it took 16 hours for out-of-state crews to address a June 3 blowout in Clearfield County and 11 hours to extinguish a July 23 fire in Allegheny County. In both cases, well operators had to wait for response crews to fly in from Texas.Hanger said "CUDD Well Control's Pennsylvania presence will ensure fast and expert response to emergency situations at well sites adding that recent accidents here e have shown that the natural gas industry lacks the training and equipment to respond quickly to accidents. This creates a tremendous danger to the public and the environment. Hanger says ten hours are more is too long to wait for a crew to fly in from halfway across the country to deal with an accident.
CUDD's new operation will give Pennsylvania 16 specially trained well-control responders and a senior well-control responder in the state at all times according to company officials. Senior responders can provide an initial assessment of emergency situations, advise local first responders, and coordinate emergency response measures with other well control specialists.

Equipment at CUDD's new Bradford County facility also will include:
*       A 2,000-gallon-per-minute pump;
*       Heat shields, which will protect responders as they work near a well fire;
*       Pneumatic cutting devices that clamp onto damaged pipe to allow responders to cut it at a safe distance; and
*       A "hot tap," which will drill a hole into damaged pipe to either relieve the pressure or allow responders to pump material into the well to kill it.

The commonwealth will employ CUDD's services as needed through emergency contracts on a case-by-case basis, meaning there is no cost to taxpayers until CUDD personnel are mobilized. If that happens, the state will work aggressively to recoup those costs from the well operator.

DEP plans to enter into a formal contract with a well control specialty company through a competitive bid process by Oct. 15.

Hanger added that taxpayers and local emergency departments should not bear the costs of responding to an accident and said that is one reason why a severance tax needs to be imposed.

While finalizing the 2010-11 state budget, lawmakers agreed to vote on a severance tax by Oct. 1 with an effective date of Jan. 1, 2011.

For more information, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us<http://www.depweb.state.pa.us>.

Organizers say the Second Annual Poker Run to benefit Northern Tier Camp Cadet this past Saturday was very successful, raising a net sum of $1400. Forty eight bikes participated in the ride which followed Route 6 to Sweden Valley, Route 44 south to Cherry Springs, Carter Camp, Cross Fork then back through Germania into Galeton and then to West Pike. Trooper Brian Harmon and Robin Freeman coordinated the event.

Pennsylvania State Police are reminding motorists of the “Steer Clear” law which requires drivers to move over or slow down when they encounter an emergency scene, traffic stop or disabled vehicle. The law requires motorists to pas in a lane not adjacent to that of the emergency response area, if possible or if passing in a nonadjacent lane is impossible, illegal or unsafe, pass the emergency response area at a careful and prudent reduced speed reasonable for safely passing the emergency response area. The law applies any time an emergency vehicle has its lights flashing and where road crews or emergency personnel have lighted flares or posted signs to warn motorists. Failure to move over or slow down can result in a summary offense tht carries a fie of up to $250. In additional, fines will be doubled for traffic violations occurring in areas designated as “work zones.” If that violation leads to a worker being injured, a 90 day license suspension could result. In cases where law enforcement may not be present, the law allows road workers and emergency responders to report violations by motorists. Law enforcement can issue citations based on those reports.

Shirley B. Miller, 84, of Coudersport, formerly of Bolivar, NY and Fishing Creek, Roulette, died Sunday, August 8, 2010, in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport, after a long illness. Born March 15, 1926 in Coudersport, she was a daughter of A. Randolph and Leta Hancock Burdick. On June 23, 1945 on Crandall Hill, Hebron Township, she married Merritt M. Miller, who died on April 23, 2003. Mrs. Miller was a graduate of Coudersport High School, class of 1942. She was employed by the former Abbott Dairies in Coudersport and by the former Cameo Doll Factory in Port Allegany. She later was employed as a telephone operator for Bell Telephone Company in Coudersport for several years. She was also employed for a time for Farad Corporation in Coudersport. She was then employed by Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport when it first opened as a switchboard operator and as an outpatient secretary, retiring after 15 years of service. Mrs. Miller was a member of the Ceres United Methodist Church and had formerly been a member of the Fishing Creek United Methodist Church, the Riverside United Methodist Church in Roulette, and the Hebron Seventh Day Baptist Church. She had served as a church lay speaker in the United Methodist Church. She was a member of the Pennsylvania State Grange and a seventh degree member of the Patrons of Husbandry of the National Grange. She was a member and former secretary of the former Hebron Grange #1251 where she also served as lecturer. She was a member of the Central Grange #1216 in Sweden Valley, a member of the Potter County Pomona Grange #52, and, along with her husband, responsible for the Pomona Youth Program. Mrs. Miller and her husband were honored for 60 years of Grange service to the Potter County Granges in 2002. Mrs. Miller lived most of her life on Fishing Creek in Roulette.

Surviving are two daughters, Geraldine R. “Gerri” Miller of Fishing Creek and Teresa L. “Terry” (James) Pratt of Bolivar, NY; an adopted daughter, Jayne E. James of Fishing Creek; eight grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Elvin S. “Corky” (Dorothy) Burdick of Roulette; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Miller was predeceased by two sons, Wesley Don Miller and Stephen Randolph Miller; two grandchildren; and a brother, Arden J. Burdick. Friends may call on Tuesday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA where funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at noon with the Rev. Randall W. Headley, pastor of the Port Allegany United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Hebron Cemetery, Hebron.

Flowers are gratefully declined and will be provided by the family. Memorials may be made to the Sweden Valley Manor Patient Activity Fund, 1028 East Second Street, Coudersport, PA 16915; the Alzheimer’s Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011; or to a church of the donor’s choice.

Thursday’s high, 81; Overnight low, 57; .10” rain (.07 on Fishing Creek)

Agents from the Attorney General’s office Thursday filed criminal charges against 11 individuals connected with two separate, but similar, drug operations allegedly responsible for distributing nearly $600,000 worth of cocaine in Philadelphia, its suburban counties and across central Pennsylvania. Attorney General Tom Corbett said that these charges are a result of two separate cocaine trafficking investigations. Evidence and testimony regarding the case was presented to a statewide investigating grand jury, which recommended the criminal charges filed Thursday. Thomas Shadle, 32, 225 North St., Westfield, formerly of Galeton, is charged with four counts of criminal conspiracy, three counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, three counts of dealing in unlawful proceeds, one count of corrupt organizations and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.
According to the grand jury, the first organization was headed by Philadelphia resident Nicholas Fatiga. This organization was allegedly responsible for distributing more than three and a half kilos of cocaine in Philadelphia, Montgomery, Mifflin and Potter counties over a 14 month period. On May 4, 2010, agents executed a search warrant at Fatiga’s residence and two of his garages. As a result of these searches, agents seized nearly 240 grams of cocaine, 200 Ecstasy pills, two scales, cutting agents, numerous syringes and other drug paraphernalia. Corbett said that eight people were charged in connection with this organization, including Fatiga’s alleged cocaine supplier, Andre Serrano of Philadelphia. Fatiga allegedly bought four and a half ounces of cocaine each month to supply his network.According to the grand jury, Fatiga regularly sold quantities of cocaine to Michael Riff, Brian Brown, Christopher Cole, William McMonigle, Jr., Charles Stoner and Thomas Shadle for redistribution in their areas.On June 10, 2010, a confidential informant testified that Thomas Shadle, Potter County, was a cocaine customer of Nicholas Fatiga. Through testimony and investigation, the Grand Jurylearned that Shadle purchased multi-ounce quantities of cocaine from Fatiga and paid $1000 per ounce. Investigation showed that Shadle travelled from Potter County, Pennsylvania to 1216 Day Street in Philadelphia to obtain the cocaine from Fatiga on three separate occasions .Agent Eklund further testified that an analysis of Nicholas Fatiga’s cellular telephone recordsindicates telephone contacts between Fatiga and Shadle. C/I#2 indicated that most of these telephonecalls between Fatiga and Shadle were to arrange the cocaine transactions and check the availability ofthe drugs. More overthe informant testified that the approximate three ounces of cocaine seized by agentsfrom 1216 Day Street on April 2, 2010 was ordered by Shadle.On June 10, 2010, Agent Eklund opined that based upon the amount of cocaine and the frequency of the purchases of cocaine that Shadle possessed the cocaine he purchased from Fatiga withthe intent to deliver it to others. Investigation revealed that Shadle obtained approximately 5 ounces ofcocaine from Fatiga from February 2009 through April 2010.Additionally, Corbett said three people were charged in connection with a second organization, allegedly headed by Matthew Bertagni of Feasterville, Bucks County.Corbett said that the Bertagni organization was allegedly responsible for the distribution and sale of more than two kilos of cocaine into Philadelphia, Bucks and Montgomery counties over the last year.
Corbett said that agents executed a search warrant at Bertagni’s residence and seized a handgun, two fully-loaded magazines and drug paraphernalia.Agents also executed a search warrant at Bertagni’s mother’s residence and seized 383 grams of cocaine, two digital scales, cutting agents, other drug paraphernalia and $18,735.According to the grand jury, John Dzizera and his wife, Victoria Salisbury traveled from Levittown, Bucks County, to Philadelphia to buy cocaine from Bertagni on multiple occasions. bett said that, allegedly, the cocaine purchased by Dzizera and Salisbury was taken back to Bucks County and provided to their friends in local bars.Corbett noted that this is part of an ongoing investigation.The defendants will be preliminarily arraigned Thnursday morning before Montgomery County Magisterial District Judge Deborah Lukens. The case will be prosecuted in Montgomery County by Deputy Attorney General Andrew M. Rongaus of the Attorney General's Drug Strike Force Section.
Below is a list of the defendants and the charges against them:
Nicholas Fatiga, 30, 1217 Shackamaxon St., Philadelphia, is charged with 157 counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, 157 counts of Criminal conspiracy, 157 counts of dealing in unlawful proceeds, one count of corrupt organizations and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.Andre Serrano, 37, 3514 N. 8th St., Philadelphia, is charged with 14 counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, 14 counts of criminal conspiracy, 14 counts of dealing in unlawful proceeds, one count of corrupt organizations and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.Michael Riff, 30, 33 W. Montgomery Ave., Floor 2, Hatboro, is charged with 56 counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, 56 counts of criminal conspiracy, 56 counts of dealing in unlawful proceeds, one count of corrupt organizations and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.Brian Brown, 33, 402 Easton Road, Horsham, is charged with 28 counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, 28 counts of criminal conspiracy, 28 counts of dealing in unlawful proceeds, one count of corrupt organizations and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.Christopher Cole, 30, 446 Manor Road, Hatboro, is charged with 10 counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act and 10 counts of criminal conspiracy.William McMonigle, Jr., 39, 4610 Silverwood St., 2nd Floor, Philadelphia, is charged with 52 counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, 52 counts of criminal conspiracy, 52 counts of dealing in unlawful proceeds, one count of corrupt organizations and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.Charles Stoner, 29, 1826 Valleyview Ave., Lewistown, is charged with two counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, two counts of criminal conspiracy, one count of dealing in unlawful proceeds, one count of corrupt organizations and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.Matthew Bertagni, 32, 115 Ruth St., Feasterville, is charged with eight counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, eightcounts of criminal conspiracy, eight counts of dealing in unlawful proceeds, one count of corrupt organizations and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.
John Dzizera, 37, 105 Twin Oak St., Levittown, is charged with three counts of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act, and three counts of criminal conspiracy.
Victoria Salisbury, 30, 105 Twin Oak St., Levittown, is charged with one count of violations of the controlled substance, drug, device and cosmetic act and one count of criminal conspiracy.

Both drivers were hurt in a collision Tuesday afternoon on Route 6 in Delmar Township, Tioga County. State police said Timothy Maben Jr., 26, of Roulette was headed east when his Fford Focus went off the road, rotated counter clockwise and crossed to the other lane where it struck the front passenger side of a Dodge Neon being driven by William Coon, 63, of Gaines. Coon had to be extricated from the wreckage with volunteers using the Jaws of Life. Both drivers were flown by helicopter to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre for treatment of moderate injuries. Maben has been cited for failing to stay within his traffic lane.

Minor injuries were reported for one driver following a hit and run collision Tuesday night on Canada Road in Covington Township, Tioga County involving two Covington resident. Troopers said that collision occurred Thomas Spencer, 25, swerved his northbound ford ranger into the opposite lane where it hit a Ford F-150 operated by Michelle Glover. After striking the Glover truck, the ranger lost its drivers side front wheel but Spencer continued northbound towards the intersection with West Hill Road. After impact, Glover’s truck continued south and struck a bridge rail and became disabled when the front wheel came off. Spencer was able to come to a stop at the intersection but subsequently lost control of the pick up which went over an embankment. Police say Spencer got out of the truck and began to flee the scene running back to the initial point of impact but was stopped by a number of bystanders who had witnessed the first and second collisions. Spencer was taken into custody and transported to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital for chemical testing. He is facing a myriad of summary traffic offenses in district court. Spencer was not wearing a seatbelt but escaped injury. Glover, who was wearing a seatbelt was transported to Soldiers and Sailors hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

James Nellis, 18, of Port Allegany was taken to Elk Regional Medical Center by Emporium ambulance following a one vehicle crash just before 11:00 pm Thursday on Roptue 155 in Portage Township, Cameron County. State police said nells was going south when his Jeep Station Wagon crossed to the other side of the road, went over a small embankment, struck a large tree, continued traveling through a wooded area and struck another large tree before coming to rest.

Kane based state police have charged 50 year old Allison Nupp of Smethport after pulling her over at about 4:30 this morning on Route 46 at the Dugout Road in Keating Township. State police claim they stopped Nupp when their observed various vehicle code violations.

An Addison, NY man is being charged in Tioga County for DUI for an incident allegedly taking place during the early morning hours of July 18. Mansfield based state police claim 29 year old Cory Wheatcraft came up behind an unmarked state police cruiser at a high rate of speed and continued tailgating the cruiser until they both pulled into the Acorn Market parking lot. The officer says when he approached Weatcraft, he was visibly intoxicated and failed the field sobriety tests. Wheatcraft was then transported to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital for chemical testing.

Couderspot-based stae plice have charged Carl Hackett of Bolivar and his employer, Wayne Gravel of Shinglehouse for failing to have a permit for an oversize load. Hackett was pulled over at about 7:00 pm Thursday on Route 6 in Pike Township while hauling a John Deere Excavator, a marked oversized load. But when troopers inspected the load they found there was no oversize permit from PennDot, took the rig out of service and issued fines totaling $4500.

An 18 year old Elkland resident has been charged with underage drinking and public drunkenness. Michael Wheeler was arrested early Thursday morning after he was found passed out on the back porch of a home on East Main Street in that town.

Emporium-based state police are investigating the theft of a push lawn mower over the past couple of weeks. The mower belonged to Nancy McLeod of Emporium and was taken from an area along Sizerville Road in Shippen Township.

Mae E. “Betty” Rounsville, 84, of Smethport, died early Saturday morning (July 31, 2010) at her residence in Smethport.She was born Aug. 24, 1925 in Olean, a daughter of William and Alice L. Mansfield O'Brien. On August 24, 1946, in the United Methodist Church of Smethport, she married Richard C. Rounsville, who survives.Mrs. Rounsville was a 1943 graduate of Bradford High School and worked at Backus Company during WWII. She later worked as a cook at the Colonial Hotel in Smethport, retiring in 1987, when she turned 62.She was a member of United Methodist Church of Smethport, the Smethport Fire Dept. Women's Auxiliary, the American Legion; Bucktail Post #138 Auxiliary of Smethport, and the VFW Post #2497 Auxiliary of Smethport. She loved to spend time with her family, camping, cooking, and playing with her grandchildren. She loved to read and do crossword puzzles.In addition to her husband, she is survived byone daughter: Karen Rounsville of Smethport, PA
three sons: David (Margaret) Rounsville of Crosby, PA, Gary (Joann) Rounsville of Smethport, PA, Donald (Diane) Rounsville of Bradford, PA
13 Grandchildren; 2 Step Grandchildren; 29 Great Grandchildren; 1 Step Great Grandchild; 11 Great Great Grandchildrenone sister: Freida June Scanlon of Olean, NYone brother: William (Roma June) O'Brien of Seattle, WA, and many nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents.Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport. Funeral and committal services will be held on Wednesday, at 11am, from the funeral home, with the Rev. Dr. Bob George, pastor of the United Methodist Church of Smethport, officiating. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Smethport.
Memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd. St., New York, NY 10016. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

David E. GALLEY, 72, of Genesee, PA, formerly of Westmoreland County, died Monday, August 2, 2010 in his home. Born March 1, 1938, in Scottdale, PA, he was the son of David W. and Blanche Viola Lint Galley. He was a graduate of Scottdale High School. On April 23, 1975, in the city of Gibraltar, he married the former Deborah Dicken, who survives. A United States Marine Corps Veteran, he served honorably from March 13, 1958 to September 27, 1977, retiring as a Gunnery Sergeant. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam. Dave was employed as a counselor by the CETA program for several years and the PA Fish and Boat Commission for 16 years. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, enjoyed gardening, and was a Civil War buff. He had traveled throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. Surviving besides his wife, Deborah, are: a son, Grant D. (Rebecca) Galley of Bowling Green, OH; two grandchildren, Ava and Kaylee; a sister-in-law, Betty Hogan Galley of Scottdale, PA; and nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by Harry E. Galley in 1985 and Warren L. Galley in 2006. Friends may call at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA on Thursday, August 5, 2010 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM, with Funeral Services following at 6:00 PM. The Rev. M. Thomas Shatto will officiate. Military Rites will be accorded by members of the Potter County Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carl E. Hyde American Legion Post #963, P.O. Box 236, Ulysses, PA 16948.

Wednesday’s high 83, Overnight low, 66; .10” rain overnight (.28” on Fishing Creek)

The 2010 Potter County Fair Queen will be crowned during a ceremony at 8:00 o’clock tonight in the pavilion. Three candidates are vying for the title; Lindsay Weichart a student at Oswayo Valley and Stacey Lentz and Sarah Brodhun both students Port Allegany High. The new queen will represent Potter County in the state contest to be held this coming January in Hershey. The candidates are judged an essay about “What My Fair Means to My Community;” personal interview; a speech on “Why You Should Come to My Fair” and evening gown/introduction. Tammy Slater of Shinglehouse was the 2009 queen.

A Smethport driver escaped injury in a one vehicle accident Wednesday afternoon on the Open Brook Road near Port Allegany. State police said Wendy Sarginger was headed north when her Pontiac Grand Prix went off the road and struck a bridge guardrail with the front end, and spun around counterclockwise coming to rest against the guard rail.

No one was hurt in a work zone collision involving a teenage driver Monday afternoon on Route 414 in Liberty Township, Tioga County. Troopers said the teen driver failed to notice that Mimi Williams of Wellsboro had stopped at the direction of a flagger in a work zone and allowed his or her Chevrolet Malibu to run into the back of the Williams Blazer. The youth is being charged for speeding.

A Troupsburg, NY teen suffered minor injuries in a car/deer accident Sunday afternoon on Route 249 in Deerfield Township, Tioga County. State police said the 17year old boy was making a left hand curve while headed north when he swerved to avoid a deer which ran onto the road. His Buick Century went off the road, struck an embankment and rolled onto its roof before coming to rest along the western berm.

Coudersport based state police overnight released details about a one-vehicle crash taking place early last Thursday morning on Route 244 in Genesee and say numerous charges are pending against the driver. Authorities say 26 year old Robert Crittenden of Whitesville, NY allowed his Chevrolet Impala to go off the road just past the Commercial Street intersection cross to the other side and strike some guardrails. Police claim Crittenden and his passengers Nikki Ost of Whitesville and Ren Folts of Wellsville left the scene of the 2:40 am crash. Crittenden and his passengers escaped injury but he is now charged with failing to stay on the right side of the road….failing to stay in his lane, speed, careless driving, accidents involving unattended property and failure to give immediate notice to police.

A 19 year old Millerton resident has been charged with underage drinking following a traffic stop on Route 49 in Knoxville early Saturday morning. Jacob Stidfole was a passenger in a car stopped by police and was allegedly found to have consumed alcohol.

State Police at Mansfield have charged Clayton R. Pratt, 30, of Lawrenceville, with possession a small amount of marijuana, use/possession of drug paraphernalia, terroristic threats, simple assault, disorderly conduct, recklessly endangering another person and harassment. The charges stem from a domestic violence incident at his home on July 1.

Authorities claim Pratt punched his wife several times, causing facial and arm injuries, after threatening to do so at their residence. Pratt also allegedly overturned a couch on which the couple's two-year-old daughter was sitting at the time and was found with a glass pipe and marijuana when he was arrested on July 11. He was initially committed to the Tioga County Prison in lieu of $10,000 bail but was later released on modified unsecured bail and is awaiting a preliminary hearing on September 23.

The commercial side of agriculture will be on display at Penn State's Ag Progress Days, Aug. 17-19 at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs. Ag Progress Days will feature more than 400 exhibitors, giving farmers and others involved with production agriculture a chance to talk with vendors and find out about crop-production machinery, dairy equipment, animal housing, feed, seed, fertilizer, banking, insurance, crop consulting services and many other types of products.

Weather permitting, some of the latest models of farm equipment will be featured in daily field machinery demonstrations, which will showcase alfalfa hay mowing (10:30 a.m.), field sprayers (new for this year at 11:30 a.m.), cover-crop planting (new, 1:15 p.m.), hay rakes and tedders (1:30 p.m.), hay baling (2 p.m.) and bale-handling equipment (3 p.m.).

Another new demonstration, taking place at 12:30 p.m., will highlight horse-drawn no-till planting equipment, including drills, corn planters and transplanters.

Visitors also will learn about the hazards of manure pits at the Farm Safety Demonstration Area, where safety specialists will demonstrate manure-pit ventilation and other safety practices. The Farm Safety Area also is the place to see farm accident rescue simulations involving agricultural equipment, including emergency scene stabilization and patient extrication techniques.

In addition to goods and services, producers can see exhibits and talk to Penn State faculty and extension educators about issues, research and practices related to dairy, livestock and crop production; animal health; soil conservation; water quality; and sources of ag renewable energy such as biogas, bio-diesel and ethanol.

Horse enthusiasts and owners also can get the latest information on tack and equipment, training, handling, health and business practices at the Ag Progress Days Equine Experience.

Sponsored by the College of Agricultural Sciences, Penn State's Ag Progress Days is held at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, nine miles southwest of State College on Route 45. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 17; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 18; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Aug. 19. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit the Ag Progress Days Web site at http://apd.psu.edu.

Twitter users can find and share information about the event by using the hashtag #agprogress.

A preliminary hearing for a Roulette man accused of firing a shot gun and threatening victims last week has been continued at the request of defense counsel. Randy Cornelius, 60, is charged with three counts each of simple assault, and reckless endangerment and two counts each of terroristic threats, and harassment for a domestic violence incident at his home on the Fishing Creek Road during the evening of July 26. State police claim Cornelius discharged two rounds from a gun and pointed it toward 35 year old Faith Cornelius of Emporium telling her he was going to kill her. His young granddaughter and and her friend were inside the vehicle when he pointed the weapon toward Faith Cornelius according to police. Then the suspect reportedly told his son, 41 year old Robert Cornelius of Roulette that he was going to kill him and his wife and was going to do physical harm to him. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for August 3 before District Judge Barbara Easton by was continued at the request of Philadelphia attorney Sam Stretton. Cornelius was initially committed to the Potter County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail but has since been released after posting bail.

A Philadelphia driver is being charged with DUI following a one vehicle crash last Thursday afternoon on Route 44 at Rock Ridge Road in Summit Township. State police say 26 year old John Cush was driving too fast when his Honda Civil went off the road and struck a tree. He’s being charged with DUI, driving too fast for conditions, driving with suspended license, failure to wear a seatbelt and various other summary traffic violations. Cush escaped injury in the crash.

A Roulette woman is facing charges for a domestic violence incident taking place Tuesday evening at her residence on Third Street in the village.. State police say 35 year old Denise Watt slapped a male victim in the face after he allegedly made rude remarks toward her and threw a cordless phone at him as he left the residence. Police say the investigation is continuing.

The theft of a log splitter from a location in Homer Township is being probed by Coudersport based state police. Troopers say the bright red Huskee log splitter belonged to Erick Duzick of Coudersport and was taken sometime between last Friday and yesterday from a spot near 658 Grum Hill Road. Anyone with information is asked to call the Coudersport barracks at 814-274-8690.

A PennDOT maintenance crew in Potter County will begin work later this month to replace a bridge in Pike Township, Potter County. The project, near the village of Sunderlinville, will require Route 1005 (Phoenix Run Road) to be closed.Work will begin 6 am Monday, August 16, to replace a bridge that spans Little Phoenix Run. A Potter County bridge crew will remove the bridge and install a precast box culvert. The project will last through Tuesday, August 24, however the roadway could re-open earlier depending upon the weather.Although area drivers can use local roads around the closure, PennDOT’s official detour is 42 miles in length and directs motorists to use Route 49, Route 1003 and U.S. Route 6.

Officials say The Little Phoenix Run Bridge is one example of a cost-effective bridge improvement program at work in PennDOT District 2 because PennDOT’s county maintenance crews use precast box culverts or planks to replace selected, small bridges (eight to 20 feet in length) that are structurally deficient.

Beverly R. James, 76, of Sweden Valley, Coudersport, PA, died Monday, August 2, 2010 in the Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport. Beverly Ruth Majot Hoak was born June 14, 1934, in Port Allegany, PA. On January 6, 1952, in Coudersport, she married Marvin L. James, who predeceased her on May 17, 1970. She was employed by Potato City, Sam’s Motel, manager of the PDQ store in Sweden Valley, and as a program residential worker with Potter County and Cole Memorial Hospital. She was a member of the Sweden Valley Faith Community United Methodist Church and the Sweden Valley Grange. Surviving are: four children, Marvin Edward James of Alta Loma, CA, Penny (Leroy) Baker, Mary (Jeff) Davis, and Shon (Angel) James, all of Coudersport; a daughter-in-law, Vivian James of Coudersport; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Everoe “Buck” (Norma) Duell of New Burn, NC; and nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her parents, Everoe and Marian Hoak Duell; two sons, Ronald L. James and Donald E. James; a sister, Georgia Lehman; an infant brother, Howard Duell; and a daughter-in-law, Talsha Kitty James. A Memorial Service will be held 1:00 PM, Thursday, August 5, 2010 in the Sweden Valley Faith Community United Methodist Church. The Rev. M. Thomas Shatto will officiate. Burial will be in Sweden Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Potter County Hospice, the Patterson Cancer Center, c/o Cole Memorial Hospital, or the Sweden Valley Faith Community UMC Building Fund, all of Coudersport, PA 16915. Arrangements are entrusted to the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA 16948.

The state police fire marshal is investigating a blaze which caused about $20,000 in damage to an addition attached to a garage on Shin Hollow Road in Gaines Township, Tioga County early Sunday morning. Volunteers from Galeton’s Good Year Hose Company responded to the 2:45 am call on property owned by Joseph Willcox and were able to keep the flames from spreading to the main structure. Willcox suffered smoke inhalation while battling the fire prior to the arrival of the fire department. He was taken to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital by Galeton Ambulance, treated and released. The investigation revealed the fire started in the east side of the addition but the cause remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Fire Marshal, Trooper David Surra at the Emporium Barracks 814-486-3321.

Mansfield-Based State Police have charged 22 year old Thomas Minder Jr. with criminal mischief claiming he intentionally “keyed” a car belonging to 21 year old Cherise Gatto of Lawrenceville while the car was parked on Mechanic Street in that town Saturday morning. The extent of damage was not reported.

Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of Michael Edward Akerly, 49, in this case of rape, aggravated assault, criminal attempt, and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. The United States Marshals Service, Western Fugitive Task Force, in Erie, Pennsylvania, continues their search for Michael Edward Akerly. Michael Edward Akerly is wanted on a federal arrest warrant for Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution. Michael Akerly is also wanted on an Erie County Warrant for Rape.On February 4, 1998, Michael Edward Akerly encountered the female victim at a tavern located in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Michael Akerly asked the victim to return to his residence located in an old warehouse in the 1900 block of Plum Street, in the City of Erie, Pennsylvania. Once they were at his residence, Michael Akerly became violent with the victim, beating her in the head, face, and body during the attack. He was arrested and charged with Rape, Aggravated Assault, and Aggravated Indecent Assault. Michael Akerly failed to appear for court.He is described as being 6’4” tall; weighs 190 pounds; has brown hair, blue eyes and a scar on his right leg.The suspects last known address was located in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Michael Akerly is also known to frequent Wattsburg, Erie County, Pennsylvania; Chautauqua, New York (possibly hiding in Amish Community); and North Carolina. Michael Akerly may possibly frequent music stores and recording studios.

New York State Firm Fined For Spilling Natural Gas Drilling Fluids In Bradford County

The Department of Environmental Protection has fined Talisman Energy USA Inc., of Horseheads, N.Y., $15,506 for a spill of used natural gas drilling fluids last November at its Klein gas well pad in Armenia Township, Bradford County that polluted a small, unnamed waterway.

The spill involved hydraulic fracturing flowback fluid, which is the substance that returns to the surface after a company injects the pressurized fluid underground to fracture, or “frack,” a geologic formation and extract natural gas.

DEP’s investigation in late November 2009 determined that Talisman spilled between 4,200 to 6,300 gallons of fracking flowback fluids when a pump failed and sand collected in a valve. The fluids flowed off the well pad and toward a wetland, and a small amount ultimately discharged to an unnamed tributary to Webier Creek, which drains into the upper reaches of the Tioga River, a cold water fishery.

Talisman successfully completed DEP’s Act 2 process for spill cleanup activities.

The fine will be deposited into the fund that supports DEP’s oil and gas permitting and enforcement programs.

The Potter County Department of Aging announces it is planning a series of “ Extra Help” workshops to help Seniors who are interested in applying for Medicare Part D and Part B Premiums.

You are single and your monthly income is less than $1354.00 and you have less than $12,510.00 in resources, then you may be eligible.

You are married and have total monthly income of less than $1821.00 and less than $25,010.00 in resources, then you may be eligible.

If you currently have Medicare due to age or disability and would like to complete an application, please attend one of the “Extra Help Events” at your local Senior Center.

A Potter County Human Services Area Agency on Aging Apprise Coordinator will be at the following locations:

Monday, August 16, 2010 at Austin United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. until 1 pm

Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at Coudersport Senior Center from 10am until 2pm

Wednesday, August 25, 2010 at Oswayo Valley Senior Center from 10am until 2pm

Seniors are advised to take their Medicare card, Social Security statement, and proof of any other income. Income includes Social Security, Railroad Retirement, Veterans Benefits, Pensions, Annuities, Workers Compensation, Wages, Alimony or Rental income.

Resources include bank accounts (checking, savings, and CDs), stocks, bonds, any real estate other than home you live in.

For further information, please call Darcy Shutt, Apprise Coordinator, at the Potter County Area Agency on Aging at 544-7315 or 1-800-800-2560.

Jeff Davidek, Investment Manager with C.S. McKee, the firm which handles Potter County’s retirement fund reported during the Retirement Board’s meeting last Thursday that the fund lost about $700,000 in value between April 1 and June 30. However, a rally in July erased most of that loss.As of Thursday, the fund had a value of $9.3 million. Tha’s up by 11 percent since July 2009. Despite the roller-coaster market of the past several years, the fund shows appreciation of 2.5 percent since 2005. Davidek said C. S. McKee continues to invest heavily in the energy and health care sectors. He is cautiously optimistic that the second half of 2010 will see a rebound. He said some economists have predicted a “double dip” global recession by his company will be prepared to handle a downturn in the market should one occur. Members of the Retirement Board include Commissioners Doug Morley, Susan Kefover and Paul Heimel, County Treasurer Krista Miller and Chief Commissioners Clerk Todd Brown.

Damon L. Nelson, 33, of Coudersport, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 1, 2010, unexpectedly in his home.

Born May 19, 1977 in Coudersport, he was a son of Raymond A. and Loretta M. Young Nelson. On November 19, 2009 in Bradenton, Florida, he married Patricia M. “Patti” Corsi, who survives.

Mr. Nelson was a graduate of Coudersport High School. He was employed as the manager of dorm counselors at I.M.G. Academy in Bradenton.

In his youth, Damon attended the Coudersport Alliance Church and since returning to Coudersport, attended the Gospel Tabernacle Church in Coudersport. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, shooting silhouette pistols, and riding motorcycles. He especially loved taking long walks with his wife.

Surviving besides his wife, are his parents of Coudersport; three brothers, Patrick A. (Karen) Nelson and Gene W. Glasgow, both of Coudersport, and Tim (Amy) McCratic of Dayton, Ohio; a sister, Rosie M. (Rick) Johnston of Bradenton; a niece, Loren C. Johnston; his paternal grandmother, Arlene M. Nelson of Kersey; an aunt; two uncles; and several cousins.

Mr. Nelson was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Francis H. and Eileen E. Young; and his paternal grandfather, John W. Nelson.

Friends may call at the Gospel Tabernacle Church, Coudersport on Thursday, August 5, 2010 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at which time funeral services will be held with the Rev. David Minor, Sr., pastor, and Pastor Frank Mickle of the Gold Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Woodland Cemetery, Coudersport.

Flowers are gratefully declined and will be provided by the family. Memorials may be made to the Coudersport Alliance Church Food Bank, Alliance Avenue, Coudersport, PA 16915.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

David E. GALLEY, 72, of Genesee, PA, formerly of Westmoreland County, died Monday, August 2, 2010 in his home. Born March 1, 1938, in Scottdale, PA, he was the son of David W. and Blanche Viola Lint Galley. He was a graduate of Scottdale High School. On April 23, 1975, in the city of Gibraltar, he married the former Deborah Dicken, who survives. A United States Marine Corps Veteran, he served honorably from March 13, 1958 to September 27, 1977, retiring as a Gunnery Sergeant. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam. Dave was employed as a counselor by the CETA program for several years and the PA Fish and Boat Commission for 16 years. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, enjoyed gardening, and was a Civil War buff. He had traveled throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. Surviving besides his wife, Deborah, are: a son, Grant D. (Rebecca) Galley of Bowling Green, OH; two grandchildren, Ava and Kaylee; a sister-in-law, Betty Hogan Galley of Scottdale, PA; and nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers, Harry E. Galley in 1985 and Warren L. Galley in 2006. Friends may call at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA on Thursday, August 5, 2010 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM, with Funeral Services following at 6:00 PM. The Rev. M. Thomas Shatto will officiate. Military Rites will be accorded by members of the Potter County Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carl E. Hyde American Legion Post #963, P.O. Box 236, Ulysses, PA 16948.

Virginia H. “Ginny” Reed, 88, of Shinglehouse, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 31, 2010 in her home surrounded by her loving family after a long illness.

Born January 22, 1922 in Shinglehouse, she was a daughter of Clair E. and Leta Bosworth Howard. On August 17, 1940 in Friendship, NY, she married F. Kenyon Reed, who died August 16, 1995.

Mrs. Reed attended Shinglehouse High School. She was employed by and retired from McGraw Edison in Olean, NY.

She was a member of the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church and a former member and past matron of Eureka Chapter #52 O.E.S. in Shinglehouse. Mrs. Reed was a den mother for cub scouts in Shinglehouse. She belonged to a bridge and pinochle club. She very much enjoyed boating and traveling, playing card and board games. Her most treasured times were the hours spent with her family and friends. She had so much joy nurturing and caring for her five boys, but most of all, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Surviving are four sons, Michael H. (Cheryl) Reed of Bolivar, NY, Leonard A. (Donna) Reed of Portville, NY, Richard P. Reed of Shinglehouse, and Joel S. (Cindy) Reed of Mulberry, Florida; a daughter-in-law, Sharon Reed of Shinglehouse; twelve grandchildren, Jeffrey (Nancy) Reed, Daniel K. Reed, Pamela (Gair) Terrette, Miranda (Mike) Mesler, Christina (Todd Price) Reed, Waltrip Elliott Reed, Andrew (Heather) Reed, Valerie (Dan) Weber, Nevan (Ashley) Reed, Casey Reed, Katie Reed, and Kori Reed; fourteen great-grandchildren, Christina Renko, Jessica Giebel, Samantha Reed, Sierra Reed, Logan Capito, Mira Terrette, Adrianna Mesler, Dawson Mesler, Baby Boy Mesler, Christopher Carpenter, Paiden Price, Troy Price, soon to be Baby Boy Reed, and Aliza Pearl Reed; two great-great-grandchildren, Hunter Giebel and Madyson Giebel; a brother, Dewey (Pat) Howard of Shinglehouse; a sister, Marjorie Hopewell of Eagle, Idaho; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Reed was predeceased by a son, Dennis K. Reed; a grandson, Christopher Reed; a great-grandson, Nathan H. Terrette; and two brothers, Homer Howard and Gary Howard.

At Mrs. Reed’s request, there will be no public visitation. Friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Sunday, August 8, 2010 at 5 p.m. at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA. The Rev. Randall W. Headley, pastor of the Port Allegany United Methodist Church, will officiate.

Flowers are gratefully declined and will be provided by the family. Memorials may be made to the Oswayo Valley Memorial Library, PO Box 188, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.

A downstate man died in a one-vehicle crash Sunday at about 2:00 pm on Jerry Run Road in Gibson Township, Cameron County. Chaunacey Kleintop, 38 of Sweet Valley was pronounced dead at the scene a couple of hours after the crash by Cameron County Deputy Coroner William Pennington. Troopers said Kleintop’s southbound Mercury Mountaineer went out of control on the single lane dirt road while negotiating a right turn. The SUV struck an embankment and rolled onto the drivers side coming to rest onto of Kleintop. His wife, Julie,32 suffered a minor back injury while one young girl suffered a minor head injury and a second child was unhurt. The children were in booster seats and Mrs.Kleintop was wearing a seatbelt according to police.

The body of an elderly Tioga county man who had been missing for about 24 hors was found Saturday afternoon in his pick up truck about 600 feet off of Cherry Flats Road just west of Fish Road in Charleston Township. Richard Johnston, 89, was returning home Friday afternoon after going to a welding shopping in Wellsboro when his truck drifted off the road and traveled through a failed into a small sand of trees. The truck was not visible from the road and a search was initiated Saturday with family members discovering the pick up at about 12:30 pm. The Tioga County Coroner ruled Johnston’s death the result of natural causes. It was the second time within a couple of weeks that a body was found several hours later in a vehicle obscured by trees and distance from a road. The body 24 year old Matthew Wood of Knoxville was found on July 23 after he had missing for about a day and a half along Route 249 a quarter of a mile south of Davis Hill Road in Chatham Township, Tioga County. Mansfield based state police believe Matthew Wood died at about 11:00 pm July 21 when his 2000 Audi Sedan went off the road on a right hand curve, crossed both lanes of the highway; traveled over a guardrail; became airborne for about 200 feet while dropping down a steep 100 foot embankment landing in a creek below. Wood was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected upon impact with the creek bed. Family and friends began looking for Wood when he failed to return home but the wreck was not visible from the road.

A Mohnton, PA motorcyclist was hurt when the left side of her bike was struck by a deer running across Route 49 in Harrison Township Saturday afternoon. State police said 53 year old Ann Lutz was headed west when the whitetail collided with her Harley Davidson Hugger. She was wearing a helmet at the time but was taken to Charles Cole Hospital for observation due to the damage her helmet received when it hit the pavement.

Emporium-based state police have charged an Austin man with fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer following a chase Friday evening on Route 155 in Shippen Township, Cameron County….Troopers say the chase began when a patrol officer tried to pull John Oliver over at around 6:00 pm after he was clocked doing 96 mph in a 55 mph zone. Authorities say Oliver voluntarily stopped his vehicle after he failed to lose the patrol car. He’s being charged with fleeting or eluding police, speeding and a host of other traffic violations.

A Port Allegany man has been charged with simple assault following a fight last Saturday morning in a driveway near 1545 Fishing Creek Road in roulette Township. State police claim 38 year old Jason Saltsman injured 52 year old Scott Manning of Eldred by punching him in the head.

A 46 year old Mount Jewett man was jailed over the weekend in violation of a protection from abuse order. State police at Kane say Jerome Schneider tried to contact a female victim through a third part I violation of a PFA. He was committed to the McKean County Jail in lieu of $5,000 bail after being arraigned before District Judge Luther.

Troopers at Mansfield have charged both Wellsboro residents involved in a fight with harassment. Authorities say 28 year old Kirsten Tellgren and 40 year old Keith Tellgren became involved in a disagreement Saturday night which turned physical.

A Knoxville man is being charged with receiving stolen property in connection to a theft taking place last fall from a New York State residence.. Authorities claim 38 year old Andrew Walters has been in possession of a Browning Compound Bow stolen from a Troupsburg, NY residence last October and has been in possession of the weapon since that time.

Bureau of Forestry Announces Record Funding for Rural Firefighters
A record $666,553 will be awarded to help Pennsylvania's rural communities guard against the threat of fires in forests and other undeveloped areas, according to an announcement by Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary John Quigley. Local firefighting forces in rural areas or communities with fewer than 10,000 residents qualify for the aid. Last year, the grant program awarded $604,710 to 162 fire companies across the state. Grants awarded in the Black Forest Broadcasting Service area include:

McKean: Bradford Township Volunteer Fire Department, Bradford, $5,938;
Derrick City Volunteer Fire Department, Derrick City, $2,500; Eldred Township Volunteer Fire Department of McKean County, Eldred, $7,500; Kane Volunteer Fire Department Inc., Kane, $5,925;

Tioga: Blossburg Volunteer Fire Department Inc., Blossburg, $3,750; Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Co., Little Marsh, $7,500; Knoxville-Deerfield Volunteer Fire Co., Knoxville, $1,500; Mansfield Hose Co., Mansfield, $3,578; Middlebury Township Volunteer Fire Department Inc., Middlebury Center, $3,750;

Grant recipients were named following review of fire company applications that met a May 2010 deadline. Grants and other assistance are provided through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Bureau of Forestry, with funding supplied by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service through the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978.

Grant recipients are selected based on vulnerability and adequacy of existing fire protection.

In reviewing applications, the bureau placed priority on applications seeking funds for projects that included purchasing wildfire-suppression equipment and protective clothing.

Grants were also awarded for mobile or portable radios, dry hydrant installations, wildfire prevention and mitigation, wildfire fighting training, and to convert and maintain federal excess vehicles received the bureau receives and uses for fire suppression.

Grants for any project during a fiscal year cannot exceed 50 percent of the actual expenditures. The maximum grant awarded was $7,500.

Aid is granted on a cost-share basis, with recipients supplying matching funds. The bureau will begin accepting 2011 applications next spring.

To expedite the application and decision-making processes, the bureau is accepting only online applications. Potential applicants should visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us<http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us> and click on "Apply for Grants," then "Online Grant Applications" and "DCNR Volunteer Fire Assistance."

Grant information can be obtained from the Bureau of Forestry Division of Forest Fire Protection in Harrisburg. Call 717-787-2925 or visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us<http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us> and click on "State Forests."

SmartWood, an organization accredited to offer independent, third-party certification of environmentally responsible forest-management practices, is inviting the public to submit comments in August during its review of Pennsylvania’s 2.2 million-acre state forest system. The assessment will evaluate the ecological, economic and social performance of the Bureau of Forestry according to forest management guidelines established by the Forest Stewardship Council. The council was formed in 1993 by environmental, social and forest-products industry representatives to establish guidelines for sound forest-management practices.A SmartWood project team of foresters and forest ecologists will visit Sproul, Susquehannock and Tioga state forests this week, meeting with DCNR officials and stakeholders. The team will score woodlands on timber-resource sustainability, forest-ecosystem maintenance, financial and socioeconomic considerations and other categories. As a part of the process, certification auditors invite stakeholders to offer comments either publicly or confidentially, and provide feedback on DCNR’s forest management. To schedule a meeting with auditors or provide feedback, stakeholders should contact Steve Grado with SmartWood at sgrado@hotmail.com or 662-617-3691. For additional information, visit www.smartwood.org.

Justin L. Kosa, 35, of Ulysses, PA, died Friday, July 30, 2010 in the Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport, PA. Born September 3, 1974, in Coudersport, he was the son of E. Gene and Nancy Goodwin Kosa. A 1992 graduate of Northern Potter High School, he served honorably with the US Army from 1992 – 1995. On November 15, 1997, in Westfield, PA, he married the former Carrine A. Rounds, who survives. He was employed by Bill Walters Construction. Justin was a member of Carl E. Hyde American Legion Post #963 in Ulysses, the Potter County Honor Guard, and the Ulysses Borough Council. He served as a coach and umpire for Ulysses Youth Baseball and as manager of Kosa Racing. Surviving besides his wife, Carrine, are: three sons, Austin L. Kosa, Tucker S. Kosa, and Foster G. Kosa; his parents, Gene and Nancy Kosa of Ulysses; two brothers, E. Kevin (Julie) Kosa and M. Joel (Darla) Kosa, both of Ulysses; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Paul and Laleen Rounds of Harrison Valley; grandparents, Edward and Helen Kosa of Ulysses, Vera Rounds of Harrison Valley, Fred and Patricia Allen of Westfield, PA; niece, Kourtnee Kosa; nephew, Wyatt Kosa; brother-in-law, Ryan (Emily) Rounds of Harrison Valley; sisters-in-law, Brittany Rounds of Wellsville, NY and Tristin Rounds of Harrison Valley; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, George and Gene Elizabeth Goodwin. Friends may call at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA on Tuesday, August 3, 2010 from 2:00 – 4:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 PM. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM, Wednesday in the Ulysses First Baptist Church. The Rev. Jason K. Reed will officiate. Burial will be in Ulysses Cemetery. Military Rites will be accorded by members of the Potter County Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to “FCNB for the benefit of Kosa children” c/o First Citizens National Bank, 502 Main St., Ulysses, PA 16948.

Virginia H. “Ginny” Reed, 88, of Shinglehouse, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 31, 2010 in her home surrounded by her loving family after a long illness.

Born January 22, 1922 in Shinglehouse, she was a daughter of Clair E. and Leta Bosworth Howard. On August 17, 1940 in Friendship, NY, she married F. Kenyon Reed, who died August 16, 1995.

Mrs. Reed attended Shinglehouse High School. She was employed by and retired from McGraw Edison in Olean, NY.

Surviving are four sons, Michael H. (Cheryl) Reed of Bolivar, NY, Leonard A. (Donna) Reed of Portville, NY, Richard P. Reed of Shinglehouse, and Joel S. (Cindy) Reed of Mulberry, Florida; a daughter-in-law, Sharon Reed of Shinglehouse; twelve grandchildren, Jeffrey (Nancy) Reed, Daniel K. Reed, Pamela (Gair) Terrette, Miranda (Mike) Mesler, Christina (Todd Price) Reed, Waltrip Elliott Reed, Andrew (Heather) Reed, Valerie (Dan) Weber, Nevan (Ashley) Reed, Casey Reed, Katie Reed, and Kori Reed; fourteen great-grandchildren, Christina Renko, Jessica Giebel, Samantha Reed, Sierra Reed, Logan Capito, Mira Terrette, Adrianna Mesler, Dawson Mesler, Baby Boy Mesler, Christopher Carpenter, Paiden Price, Troy Price, soon to be Baby Boy Reed, and Aliza Pearl Reed; two great-great-grandchildren, Hunter Giebel and Madyson Giebel; a brother, Dewey (Pat) Howard of Shinglehouse; a sister, Marjorie Hopewell of Eagle, Idaho; and several nieces and nephews.

Flowers are gratefully declined and will be provided by the family. Memorials may be made to the Oswayo Valley Memorial Library, PO Box 188, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.

Mae E. “Betty” Rounsville, 84, of Smethport, died early Saturday morning (July 31, 2010) at her residence in Smethport.
She was born Aug. 24, 1925 in Olean, a daughter of William and Alice L. Mansfield O'Brien. On August 24, 1946, in the United Methodist Church of Smethport, she married Richard C. Rounsville, who survives.
Mrs. Rounsville was a 1943 graduate of Bradford High School and worked at Backus Company during WWII. She later worked as a cook at the Colonial Hotel in Smethport, retiring in 1987, when she turned 62.
She was a member of United Methodist Church of Smethport, the Smethport Fire Dept. Women's Auxiliary, the American Legion; Bucktail Post #138 Auxiliary of Smethport, and the VFW Post #2497 Auxiliary of Smethport. She loved to spend time with her family, camping, cooking, and playing with her grandchildren. She loved to read and do crossword puzzles.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by
one daughter: Karen Rounsville of Smethport, PA
three sons: David (Margaret) Rounsville of Crosby, PA, Gary (Joann) Rounsville of Smethport, PA, Donald (Diane) Rounsville of Bradford, PA
13 Grandchildren; 2 Step Grandchildren; 29 Great Grandchildren; 1 Step Great Grandchild; 11 Great Great Grandchildren
one sister: Freida June Scanlon of Olean, NY
one brother: William (Roma June) O'Brien of Seattle, WA, and many nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport. Funeral and committal services will be held on Wednesday, at 11am, from the funeral home, with the Rev. Dr. Bob George, pastor of the United Methodist Church of Smethport, officiating. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Smethport.
Memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd. St., New York, NY 10016. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

A Bedford, PA man was committed to the Tioga County Prison Tuesday in lieu of $35,000 bail after being arraigned before District Judge James Carlson on charges of rape, aggravated indecent assault, simple assault and false imprisonment. Authorities allege the crime was committed near the Stephenhouse Picnic Shelter at the Ives Run Recreational Area in Middlebury Township early Tuesday morning. State police say a 36 year old woman was taking 30 year old Leon Tice home from Fred’s Lobster Garden and pulled into the Ives Run Recreational Area so he could use the public restrooms. When Tice returned to the car, he and the victim began talking however the situation reportedly escalated into a physical confrontation and police claim Tice then raped the victim in the front seat of the car.

Moderate injuries were reported for a Bradford driver following a one-vehicle crash early this morning on Route 346 in Otto Township. State police said 45 year old Donald Nies was headed west when his Ford Focus went off the road and down an embankment before hitting a culvert.

A 19 year old Tioga County woman and two teenage boys are being charged with burglary and other crimes following an incident allegedly taking place Wednesday afternoon at a home on Spencer Road in Richmond Township. When Jodie Weible returned home at about 3:30 pm she noticed someone inside the house. The intruders ran into the woods when they saw Weible. She chased them and all eventually came onto Spencer Road where Weible detained them until troopers arrived. She later discovered $200 in cash was missing from her home. Shelby Errico was committed to the Tioga County Prison after being arraigned on charges of burglary and conspiracy to commit criminal trespass. Two boys, ages 14 and 14 were released on Thursday after being committed to the Tioga County Juvenile Detention Center on charges of burglary, criminal trespass and theft.

Troopers a Kane are investigating the theft of a 25 foot 2005 GMC Box U-Haul box truck which was not returned Thursday morning to the Lewis Run U-Hal as per the rental agreement. Authorities say a known female rented the truck which is white and orange and bears U-Haul Graphics but failed to show up by 9:30 am. Police believe she may be traveling with William Umpstead, Jr. who is a “walk away” from the Elk County Jail.

Two Tioga County teens are charged with retail theft after they allegedly stole 11 cans of whipped cream from Weiss Markets in Charleston Township Monday night. Charges against Devon Greeley and Daniel Adams, both 18 and both of Wellsboro have been filed in District Court.

A burglary at a home on Bobby’s Run Road in Shippen Township Cameron County last week is being investigated by Emporium-based state police. Thieves took a handgun and an undetermined amount of money after forcing their way into the home of Edward Niebauer Between July 23 and 28.

No one was hurt after vandals rolled three bales of hay onto the Lake Road at the intersection of Bear Creek Road in Jackson Township, Tioga County between 1:20 AND 1:30 am July 21. The bales belonging to a Millerton farmer were undamaged and were returned to the field.

Potter County Human Services Area Agency on Aging still has Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program checks to be distributed to Potter County senior citizens. These checks are through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Each senior citizen receives one set of (4) $5 checks per year.

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 issued 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.

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.

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.

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:

Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) is inviting area senior citizens and their families to his Eighth Annual Senior Citizens Expo on Friday, Aug. 13, at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Sports and Fitness Building gymnasium. The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and lunch will be provided. State, county and local vendors will be on hand to distribute information and answer questions. Information about health care, insurance, nutrition and exercise, fire safety, financial planning, fraud protection, government services, hunting/fishing and personal safety will be available. Health screenings will also be offered, and door prizes will be awarded.People who cannot attend the expo in Bradford will have another chance when Causer hosts his second event on Friday, Oct. 8, at the Roulette Fire Hall in Roulette.

For more information on the senior expo in Bradford, contact Causer's Bradford district office at (814) 362-4400. Information on the later event in Roulette is available by calling Causer's Coudersport office at (814) 274-9769. Causer also advises he

) will offer information on a variety of state programs and services during this year's Potter County Fair.Causer will have a table set up at the fair from Monday, Aug. 2, through Friday, Aug. 6. The table will include state maps, as well as brochures and booklets on state programs and services.The table will be staffed from 4-9 p.m. each night

Fifty teenagers from 34 Pennsylvania counties have been invited to learn about state police operations at the Commissioner’s Honor Camp next week at the State Police Academy in Hershey. The cadets, ages 13-18, were selected from among more than 1,500 boys and girls who participated in 26 local Camp Cadet programs last year. The Honor Camp was created in 1998 as a reward for the top two cadets from each local program. Troopers teach Honor Camp cadets about criminal investigations, police skills, use of force and other related topics. The camp includes team problem-solving activities and sports. Visits to the Capitol, Governor’s Residence, state police headquarters, and Hershey’s Chocolate World also are included in the week’s itinerary.the program begins Sunday, Aug. 1. A graduation ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 7, at the State Police Academy. Elizabeth Burd of Coudersport and Nathan Bonham of Westfield are among those invited.

Kathryn M. Press, 102, formerly of Shinglehouse, died Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, PA. Born January 12, 1908 in Wharton, PA, she was a daughter of Charles “C.O.” and Julia Dicke Miller. On June 10, 1930 in Olean, NY, she married William Lyon Press, who died on October 13, 1959 Mrs. Press was educated in the local one room school in Wharton and graduated from Austin High School in 1927. She continued her education by attending Mansfield State Teacher’s College that summer which enabled her to teach school that fall. Her first teaching position was in a one room school at Seven Bridges, teaching all eight grades in addition to being janitor. She then taught in Hulls, PA in another one room school. Mrs. Press then married her husband and did not teach for a while. She worked for North Penn Gas Company for a short time. In 1953 she returned to teaching in Shinglehouse having taught departmental reading and math for the 5^th and 6^th grades until retiring in 1974. A strict disciplinarian, she enjoyed working with children and had their best interests at heart. Mrs. Press was a very active member of the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church and the Mary Martha Class of the church. She was a 77 years member and past matron of Eureka Chapter #52 O.E.S. in Shinglehouse, a member of Olean Court #19 Order of the Amaranth, and a member of the White Shrine of Jerusalem in Olean. She was also a member of the Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees, the Potter/Tioga Chapter of Pennsylvania of School Retirees, AARP, and a member of the former Shinglehouse Volunteer Firemen’s Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a former member of the board of directors of the Maple Grove Cemetery Association and was active with the Oswayo Valley Memorial Library. She enjoyed doing crafts. Her greatest love was her family. Surviving are a daughter, Marilyn J. Anderson of Port Allegany, PA; two grandsons, James L. (Pamela) Anderson and Joel L. (Dannielle) Anderson, both of Port Allegany; three great-grandchildren, Ashley, Jacob and Kaitlyn; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Press was predeceased by a brother, Charles H. Miller; three sisters, Emma Miller, Anna Moore, and Viola Alden; and two infant brothers and an infant sister. Friends may call on Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA where funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 31, 2010 at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Daniel P. Grimes, pastor of the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church, and the Rev. Randall W. Headley, pastor of the Port Allegany United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Shinglehouse. Members of Eureka Chapter #52 O.E.S. will conduct a memorial service at 8:45 p.m. on Friday in the funeral home. Flowers are respectfully declined and will be furnished by the family. Memorials may be made to the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church, PO Box 296, Shinglehouse, PA 16748; the Oswayo Valley Memorial Library, PO Box 188, Shinglehouse, PA 16748; or to the Shinglehouse Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 475, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.

Gertrude I. Reese, 100, of Whitehouse Road, Portville, and formerly a longtime resident of Port Allegany, Pa., passed away Wednesday (July 28, 2010) at Olean General Hospital.Born Dec. 31, 1909, in Pleasant Valley Township, Pa., she was a daughter of George and Agnes Reid Meacham. On June 24, 1936, she married Donald E. Reese, who died April 7, 2000. They were married 64 years.Mrs. Reese was a graduate of Port Allegany High School’s class of 1929, which included 43 students. She also graduated from Westbrook Academy of Olean.She was employed with Meacham Hardware for 65 years and later Johnston Tools Inc., both in Port Allegany.She was a member of Sartwell Creek Union Church, Burtville, Pa. She was a 50-year member of Keystone Chapter 2, Order of Eastern Star, Duke Center; 68-year member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Port Allegany; and a former sheriff’s deputy for William Reese. She was an avid Buffalo Bills and Sabres fan. She enjoyed embroidery and gave many of her projects as gifts.
Mrs. Reese is survived by a daughter, Jo Ann Reese-Parsons of Portville; four grandchildren, Jay (Carolyn) Little and Judi (Gary Brady) Franke, both of Florida, Jill (Robin) Robinson Jr., of Portville and Jackie (Ken) Pickett Jr., of Eldred, Pa.; seven great-grandchildren: Airman Josh Yanetsko, Tyler Robinson, Harley Robinson, Audra Frair, Ryan Friar, Branden Logsdon and Kaleb Franke; and a sister, Thelma Swift, of Coudersport, Pa.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald; four brothers, Lynn Meacham, Lawrence Meacham, Glenn Meacham and Guy Meacham; and nine sisters, Mabel Prindle, Alta Clark, Celestia Meacham, Laura Stearns, Mildred Dingman, Leona Criss, Margaret Shisler, Pauline Meacham and an infant girl.Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday (July 30, 2010) at Switzer Funeral Home, Port Allegany. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday (July 31, 2010) at Sartwell Creek Union Church, with the Rev. LaVerne Howard, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Sartwell Creek Cemetery, Burtville.Memorials may be made to Sartwell Creek Union Church or to the Eldred (Pa.) World War II Museum.

Amy M. Empson, 69, of West Bingham, Genesee, PA, died Thursday, July 29, 2010 in her home. Born January 29, 1941, at home in Bingham Township, PA, she was the daughter of Frank and Beatrice French Moe. On March 25, 1961, in Hickox, PA, she married Gary L. Empson, who survives. She was employed by Galeton Production, Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport, and Highland Manor in Wellsville, NY. She was a member of the Bingham Center Bible Church and the Harrison-Ulysses-Genesee senior center. Surviving besides her husband, Gary, are: two sons, Frank Empson of West Bingham and Donald (Janet) Empson of Goochland, VA; two daughters, Doreen (Kris) Weiss of Ulysses, PA and Nola (Carl) Jonsson of Elma, WA; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; five sisters, Linda Alawine of Elma, WA, Pauline Shutt of Shinglehouse, PA, Margaret Torok of Ulysses, Maryann Williams of Elma, WA, and Nola Gear of Gilbert, AZ; and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents. A private graveside service will be held in Ulysses Cemetery. Pastor Harold Kiel will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Patterson Cancer Center, c/o Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport, PA 16915. Arrangements are entrusted to the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA.

Wednesday’s high, 81; Overnight low, 66; 1.55” rain (.83 on Fishing Creek)

Coudersport Borough police are investigating a break-in at the China Garden Restaurant on South Main Street Monday night. Thieves stole some cash and electronic cash register after forcing their way into the building. Police Chief Lee Gross told Black Forest Broadcasting News that the money was not inside the locked cash register and theorizes the thieves took the register to try to open it somewhere else. Anyone who has information about the theft is asked to call Borough Policed at 274-8970.

A domestic violence incident involving teenagers at a home on North Main Street in Ulysses late Tuesday night remains under investigation by Coudersport-based state police. Troopers say a 17year old girl and a 15 year old boy became involved in an argument which escalated to the point where the girl is accused of throwing a lighter at the boy, slapping him in the face, jumping on him and biting his right shoulder. The victim pushed the girl off of him and left the house. She’s accused of chasing him down the street with a frying pan before leaving the scene in an unknown direction.

Numerous charges are being filed against a Roulette teenager following a recent traffic stop. Troopers say when they interviewed 19 year old Shelby Gleason they found a small amount of pot and related paraphernalia in her vehicle. She is also being charged with underage possession or transportation of alcoholic beverages and various traffic violations. Charges are being filed before District Judge Barbara Easton. The stop took place on Burleson Avenue in Roulette on February 22, 2010. Police gave no reason for the delay in filing charges.

Troopers at Coudersport have also charged a 15 year old Roulette Township boy with criinal mischief for an incident allegedly occurring at about 7:30 Monday morning at the home of Gerhardus and Barbara Houwer on Kim Hill Road. The youth is accused of destroying six windows at the residence and is now facing charges before District Judge Barbara Easton.

An 18 year old Lawrenceville motorcyclist was life- flighted to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre for treatment of serious injuries she suffered in a crash Wednesday evening on Route 15 in Richmond Township, Tioga County. State police said Tasha Lynne Elwood was headed south at a high rate of speed when the front tire on her 2002 Kawasaki Ninja blew out causing the bike to go off the road, onto the east berm and slide through the median for about 165 feet before coming to rest. Authorities say Elwood who was not wearing a helmet is facing multiple traffic violations.

UGI Central Penn Gas Customers received some good news in their most recent bills. The utility submitted its annual filing with the PUC on June 1 to establish gas rates effective this coming December 1 and has proejced a decrease in rates. If the company’s rates are approved, officials say the typical residential customer who uses about 6.7 dekatherms of natural gas per month will decrease from $100.00 per now to $93.17 on June 1 and then decrease again on December 1, 2011 to $88.66. Customers are invited to call toll Free 1-800-652-0550 for more information.

County Treasurers across Pennsylvania continue to process doe license applications which were opened up to out of state hunters this past Monday. There are still some 9,000 plus licenses available in WMU 3-A, covering the area north of Route 6 in Potter, McKean and Tioga Counties while WMU 2F and 2G also in the Black Forest Service Area sold out quickly. More than 25,000 licenses were allocated to WMU3.

Meanwhile, the Game Commission remindsHunters looking to participate in this year’s Pennsylvania elk season have until Aug. 27 to submit an application through the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Pennsylvania Automated License System (PALS). This can be done at any issuing agent or through the “2010 Elk Hunt” icon in the center of the agency’s homepage (www.pgc.state.pa.us). Applicants must pay a $10.70 non-refundable application fee to be included in the drawing. Details on the elk season and drawing are available on pages 89-91 of the 2010-11 Pennsylvania Digest of Hunting and Trapping Regulations, which is provided to license buyers. On Sept. 10, the Game Commission will hold a public, computerized drawing in the auditorium of its Harrisburg headquarters. At that time, the agency will award the 50 elk licenses, the first 17 drawn will receive an antlered license and the next 33 drawn will receive an antlerless license. By law, only one application is permitted per person per year, and PALS will prohibit an individual from submitting more than one application. Individuals are not required to purchase a resident or nonresident general hunting license to apply for the drawing. However, if they are drawn for one of the elk licenses, hunters then will be required to purchase the appropriate resident or nonresident general hunting license and view the elk hunt orientation video produced by the Game Commission before being permitted to purchase the elk license. The elk license fees are $25 for residents and $250 for nonresidents.

There is no cap, or limit, for the number of licenses that may be awarded to nonresidents. Individuals who applied but were not awarded an elk license in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 have seven preference points heading into this year’s drawing if they submit an application this year, and will have their name entered into the drawing eight times (seven preference points plus the point for this year’s application).

As part of the preference point system established by the agency in 2003, consecutive applications are not required to maintain previously earned preference points, but those points can be activated only in years that a hunter submits an application. For instance, if a hunter has six preference points, but does not enter the 2010 drawing, he/she will not have any chances in the upcoming drawing. However, their preference points will remain on hold until they apply again. Once a hunter is awarded an elk license – either an antlered or antlerless elk license – the hunter’s preference points will revert to zero.

Additionally, hunters who want to earn a preference point for this year, but know that they would not be able to participate in the elk hunting season if drawn, have the option of simply purchasing a preference point for $10.70. While they will not be included in the drawing for the 2010 elk licenses, they will continue to build their preference points.

Those applying for an elk license can choose either an antlered or antlerless elk license, or they may select both categories on their application. For those who select “antlered only,” if they are drawn after the antlered licenses are allocated, they will not receive an elk license. For those who do receive an antlered elk license, they will not be permitted to re-apply for future elk hunting opportunities for five years. However, those who received an antlerless elk license in any of the previous hunts may submit an application this year.

Applicants also have the opportunity to identify their elk hunt zone preference, or they may select “any.” If drawn and their preferred hunt zone is filled, applicants will be assigned a specific area by the Game Commission. To assist applicants in making this decision, information about the elk hunt zones, as well as an elk harvest map depicting the locations of every elk taken by hunters since 2001, are posted on the agency’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), and can be viewed by clicking on the “2010 Elk Hunt” icon in the center of the homepage.

The agency is planning to webcast the public drawings for the 2010 elk hunting licenses on Sept. 10. To view the drawing, a special icon will be posted online the morning of the public drawing for individuals to click on and watch the drawing.

“Each year, tens of thousands of individuals apply for an elk license,” Roe said. “Unfortunately, not all of them can make it to the public drawings and we are unable – due to financial limitations – to send everyone who applied a letter to let them know whether they were drawn. By webcasting the drawings, we hope to allow more people to view these events without having to travel.”

Roe also noted that those who have submitted applications can check the status of their applications for the elk drawing, as well as their antlerless deer license applications, thanks to the Pennsylvania Automated License System (PALS).

To access this information, go to the Game Commission website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), and click on the blue box in the upper right-hand corner of the homepage. Click on the “Purchase License Permit and or Application/Replace License and or Permit” option, which includes the ability to “Check on the status of any Lottery Application,” scroll down and click on the “Start Here” button at the bottom of the page. At this page, choose one of the identification options below to check your records, fill in the necessary information and click on the “Continue” button. Click on the appropriate residency status, which will display your current personal information. At the bottom of the page, choose the “Check on the status of any Lottery Application” button, and then hit “Continue.”

“While this may seem like a lot of clicking and box checking to get to the information, the system is designed to protect an individual’s personal information, while at the same time enabling that person to check on the status of his or her applications,” Roe said. “In the past, the only way to know for sure that you were awarded an elk license was to attend the public drawings, wait for a letter in the mail or to call the Game Commission.

“Thanks to PALS, we will be able to update the data files shortly after the elk drawing is completed so that license buyers will be able to see for themselves if they were drawn for one of the 50 elk licenses.”

A Roulette man has been jailed in lieu of $50,000 bail after being arraigned Monday night before District Judge Barbara Easton on three counts each of simple assault, and reckless endangerment and two counts each of terroristic threats, and harassment for a domestic violence incident at his home on the Fishing Creek Road. State police claim 60 year old Randy Cornelius discharged two rounds from a gun and pointed it toward a 35 year old Emporium woman telling her he was going to kill her. An 8 year old girl and 10 year old girl were reportedly in the vehicle when he pointed the weapon toward the victim. Then Cornelius reportedly told a 41 year old Roulette man that he was going to kill him and his wife and was going to do physical harm to him. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for August 3 before District Judge Barbara Easton.

Mansfield-based state police have charged two Tioga County residents with harassment for domestic violence incidents taking place recently. Jeffrey Terrill ,35, of Millerton was arrested after he allegedly threatened to blow a 25 year old neighbor’s brains out Monday night. And, Travis Maley, 23, of Wellsboro was charged after he pushed a 23 year old Wellsboro woman during an argument on the afternoon of July 14 at a home on Route 6 in Charleston township.

The driver of a car which hit a pedestrian Tuesday night in Keating Township is being sought by Kane-based state police. Troopers say a Silver Dodge Intrepid, while backing out of a side road, hit 21 year old Matthew Braund of Smethport while he was walking south on the Bordell Road. The car had three young men inside, possibly in their teens or early 20’s. The car fled the scene headed south toward Smethport. Anyone with information is asked to call the Kane Barracks at 778-5555.

Minor injuries were reported for an elderly driver and his passenger following a collision Saturday afternoon on Route 328 in Jackson Township, Tioga County. State police released details overnight saying that the collision occurred when 20 year old Dustin Robbins of Tioga, PA allowed his westbound Dodge Stratus to drift into the opposite lane where it collided with a Jeep Cherokee driven by 71 year old Robert Bird of Gillette, PA. Bird and his passenger, 92 year old Vernice Bird of Waverly, NY suffered minor injuries while Robbins was unhurt.

William Cannon, 53 of Sandyville, WV was charged by Emporium based state police following a non-reportable crash early Saturday morning on Route 46 in Shippen Township, Cameron County….Edward Robison Jr. of Emporium was arrested for DUI after he was pulled over Sunday afternoon on Route 120near the Hercules Road Shippen Township fro alleged traffic violations…and, Troopers at Mansfield have charged 79 year old Wallace Keck o Wellsboro after stopping him Saturday night at the intersection of Route 6 and Shumway Hill Road in Charleston Township. Charges against all of the drivers have been filed in district court….

During their July 15 meeting, the Potter County Commissioners announced they are applying for a grant from to help county governments archive records and historical documents. If the Potter County Commissioners’ application is approved, a professional archivist/records manager will be assigned to work with elected officials, department heads and administrative personnel on archiving, backing up and purging county records. Commissioner Paul Heimel said that if local matching grants are required, the county could probably use money from the county’s record improvement fund. A staff member of the commissioners’ office recently attended a training session on archiving and records retention.

Joy E. Williams, 52, of, Port Allegany, died Tuesday (July 27, 2010) in her home surrounded by her family.
She was born Sep 26, 1957 in Olean, a daughter of Donald G. and Joyce L. Hurd Bickford, On August 17, 1978 in Port Allegany, PA, she married Dennis R. Williams, who survives.Mrs. Williams was a 1975 graduate of Port Allegany High School. After graduation she worked for Pierce Glass Co of Port Allegany. She then left Pierce Glass to operate a day care out of her home caring for many local children. She then worked for Port Allegany High School as a Cafeteria Server.She was a member of Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Port Allegany and was member of the ELCA of the Church.In addition to her husband, she is survived by four sisters: Jane (David) Harrier of Port Allegany, PA, Linda (Donald) Beeley of Rochester, NY, Joan (Steve) Bartas of Smethport, PA and Tina Safford of Port Allegany, PA
Two brothers: Thomas (Sue) Bickford of Port Allegany, PA, Donald (Sandra) Bickford of Emporium, PA
2 step daughters, Penny (Gary) Brown of Duke Center, PA; Denise (Randy) King of Bradford, PA.
6 Step grandchildren
She was preceded in death by her parents
Visitation will be held on Thursday July 29, 2010 from 2 - 4 and 6-8 PM in the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc, 105 N Main St, Port Allegany, PA. Funeral and committal service will be held Friday, July 30, 2010 at 11:00 am from the Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 205 Arnold Ave. Port Allegany, with the Rev Thomas J. Beam, Pastor Officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Port Allegany.
Memorials may be made to Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 205 Arnold Ave, Port Allegany, PA 16743 or the S.W. Smith Library, Church St., Port Allegany, PA 16743
Online Condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc, Port Allegany.

Food left cooking on a kitchen stove caused only slight smoke damage to a Shinglehouse home this morning. Shinglehouse volunteer firefighters were summoned to the Bob Brewer residence on Route 44 north at about 10:00 am when an alarm company notified 911 Dispatch there was smoke inside the home. About 20 Shinglehouse volunteers responded but Chief Chief Doug Estes told Black Forest Broadcasting that since the department was having trouble rounding up enough volunteers he asked for a full company response from Portville and a tanker from Bolivar. Both departments sent tankers to the scene while Portville personnel stood by at the Shinglehouse station. All units were back in service about 90 minutes later. There were no injuries.

Several area fire departments were dispatched last night about 9:19 pm to a reported barn fire in Allegany Township. Turns out someone was burning trash in an incinerator behind a barn at the Carl Erway farm near gold and there was no cause for concern. All units were back in service a short time later.

The unemployment picture in the region was a mixed bag last month, with rates dropping slightly in some counties…and going back up in others. Potter County’s jobless rate went back up from 11.1% in May to 11.7 in June. The jobless rate also increased in Cameron County from 14.8 to 15.0%.Cameron County continues to have the worst jobless percentage in the state. Unemployment dropped in McKean County from 10.l9% in May to 10.6% in June; from 11.1 percent in Elk County to 10.8% and from 9.2 percent in Tioga to 9.1%. Tioga continues to enjoy the best rate in the Black Forest Service Area. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate was 9.2% for the period, better than the national rate of 9.5%.

A Shamokin Dam woman was hurt in a motorcycle crash Sunday morning on Route 44 in Stewardson Township, Potter County. Troopers said 52 year old Maryrose Keller was headed north when her 2002 Kawasaki Vulcan went off the east side of the road and tipped over onto its life slide. The bike slid about 30 feet before coming to rest along the east side. Keller came to rest beside the motorcycle on the highway.

Coudersport based state police are looking for a hit and run vehicle damaging several mailboxes about 11:00 pm Sunday night on North Genesee Street. Authorities say the unknown vehicle was headed west on Route 449 when it went off the north side of the road and hit the mailboxes which were mounted on a single wooden post. The driver fled the scene without notifying state police or property owners.

Troopers here overnight released details about a one-vehicle crash occurring last Thursday on Route 144 in West Branch Township. Police say 70 year old John Malaczewski was going north just north of the intersection with Pigeon Hill Road when his Yukon failed to negotiate a left-hand turn and traveled onto the shoulder were it struck a tree. Malaczewski who was not wearing a seatbelt suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro. He is being charged with failing to stay within highway lanes and various other summer charges.

Nathan Harpster, 25 of Lewis Run was committed to the McKean County Jail early Monday morning after being arraigned on charges of simple assault, resisting arrest, harassment and disorderly conduct. State police claim during an argument with a 34 year old woman at his residence, Harpster kicked the woman to the ground, choked her while she was down and then punched her in the face with a closed fist.

Coudersport-based state police have charged 19 year old Jonathon Linde with terroristic threats. Authorities claim Linde, whose address is unknown, sent threatening instant messages to a 23 year old Harrison Township woman last Wednesday afternoon.

A camp burglary taking place sometime last weekend in Sinnemahoning is being investigated by Emporium-based state police. Thieves stole a yellow and white lawn tractor by cutting a cable lock securing it. The tractor has a black seat, was missing a headlamp assembly and had a flat rear tire. The camp is owned by Barry Hogentogler of Columbia PA and is located on Hemlock Lane about three miles south of Wycoff Run.

Coudersport-based state police are probing a few recent incidents of criminal mischief. Sometime last Thursday or Friday, vandals used a knife to puncture all four tires on a Chrysler sedan owned by Crystal Carpenter while it was parked at her home on Schalard Lane in Hebron Township. Someone kicked in the driver’s side door on a Honda Civic owned by Shirleen Vancocker while it was parked at her home on Route 6 in Ulysses Township over the past weekend and an explosive device was used to damage a mailbox on Dodge Hollow Road in Harrison Township early Sunday morning.

Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, has announced that the Federal Transit Administration under the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a $634,000 grant to the Area Transportation Authority of North Central Pennsylvania (ATA) to replace ten older vehicles with accessible large passenger vans and small buses, and will also fund spare parts. Mike Imbrogno, chief executive officer at ATA, said a small amount of the funding will go to purchase spare parts and associated equipment such as communications and mobile data computers, which are installed in the vehicles after they are manufactured. The vehicles will be put into service throughout the ATA’s region soon after they at which time the old vehicles that are being replaced will be taken out of service and disposed of.

Sunday’s high, 73; Overnight low, 48; .97” rain (.89 of Fishing Creek, Friday night; .86 Saturday night and 1.00” Sunday).

It was another wild weekend in the Black Forest….at least weather-wise. Severe thunderstorms were posted Friday night for many counties in our service area and .89” of rain fell during the period on Fishing Creek….Then late Saturday afternoon the national weather service began issuing severe thunderstorms and watches and then tornado warnings from several counties as a storm system moved west to east for several hours prompting more warnings which came fast and furious, almost too rapidly to post. Doppler radar detected rotating winds above several communities including Myrtle, Shinglehouse and Galeton in Potter County. The National Weather
Services has confirmed An F1 Tornado touched down at about 6:40 pm Saturday in West Branch Township about two and a half miles south of Galeton. It stayed on the ground for about a mile and a half. According to Glenn Dunn, Potter County EMA Coordinator, some residential property was damaged, numerous camps and seasonal structures were also damaged. Power was restored to most residences in the area, by Sunday evening however the power in the Wetmore hollow area (Pump House Road) is still out today and will remain out until Tri – County power can rebuild the power lines in that area as they were destroyed by the tornado.

Dunn says This area primarily serves camps and seasonal homes. However the Galeton water reservoir is in this area and currently is operating with generators. The road into that area had to be cleared of trees and debris Sunday allowing for crews to begin rebuilding lines. A touch down was also reported in Mayville, Chautauqua County in New York State as the system began its trek across the twin tiers and damage was also reported about four miles South of Bradford. We have no reports of injuries, however Roulette volunteer emergency services personnel were called at 9”50 pm Saturday to look for a 57 year old Philadelphia resident who had left a camp on Fisk Hollow Road to go for a walk after the storm. Some 20 volunteers from Roulette were assisted by six to 8 personnel from Shinglehouse. Port Allegany emergency services personnel stood by under the mutual aid system and Coudersport Volunteers responding with a rescue ATV were turned back in route. Roulette Fire chief Ray Kulp told Black Forest Broadcasting News, the man was located by some gas well workers at the top of Weimer Hollow who reported to 911 they had seen him walking in the area. The workers found the hiker and took him to safety at the head of Weimer Hollow where the command post had been set up. All units were back in service by 12:30 am Sunday. The hiker told Chief Kulp this was his first visit to the area and he would not try the stunt ever again.

A 60year old Delevan, NY man died in a collision Saturday just after 4:00 pm in Eldred Township, McKean county. State police said Millard Keesler was headed east on Route 346 a half mile west of Route 446when for unknown reasons, his Ford Ranger crossed the center lane and struck a Pontiac Envoy driven by Richard Mulaski of Port Allegany head on. Keesler was pronounced dead the scene by McKean county coroner Mike Cahil. Mulaski and his wife, Sheila were taken to Olean General hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

Coudersp;ort-based state police are asking anyone who has information about a one-vehicle crash last Thursday night on the Butter Creek Road in Oswayo Townsihp to contact them t 814-274-8690. Troopers say 49 yer old David Cavagna of Wellsville was driving a Dodge Ram westbound went it went off the road and rolled onto the passenger side. Cavagna was ejected and found on the ground by passing motorists. He was flown by helicopter from the scene to an out of the area hospital.

Mansfield-based state police have charged 21 year old Eric Chapman of Mansfield and 28 year old Teresa Hiller of Columbia Crossroads, PA in connection to a hold-up Friday night at the Kwik Fill on South Main Street in Richmond Township. Troopers claim that Chapman approached Kwik-Fill employee Timothy Murray, Jr. of Mansfield while he was checking the level of fuel in the station’s tanks with a knife and demanded money. Murray gave him all of the money he had on him from recent gasoline sales. Police say Chapman then ran to Costy’s and got into a vehicle. Murray telephoned police and gave them a description of Chapman and the car. Police located the car at the Mansfield Subway and found both Chapman and Hiller inside along with $147.00 taken in the hold-up. Both were committed to the Tioga County Prison to await arraignment.

Harry C. Palmatier, Jr., 89, a lifelong resident of Coudersport, PA, died unexpectedly in his home in Orange Park, Florida on Thursday, July 22, 2010.

Born April 12, 1921 in Coudersport, he was a son of Harry C. Sr. and Sophia Mosch Palmatier. On May 24, 1945, he married Virginia Taillon. On September 1, 1975 in Portville, NY, he married Eugenia H. Monroe, who died on February 17, 2009.

Mr. Palmatier was a graduate of Coudersport High School, class of 1939. During high school, he attended aviation school on Long Island, NY. Following graduation, Mr. Palmatier completed his Master Airplane and Engine Mechanics degree. He then went to work for Spartan School of Aeronautics in Tulsa, Oklahoma as a ground school instructor in aircraft maintenance for two years. On September 2, 1942, he joined the U.S. Navy. Mr. Palmatier completed the pilot training course and graduated as an Ensign in the United States Naval Reserve. He was a naval aviator during World War II serving as a fighter pilot serving in the Pacific on the aircraft carriers Saratoga, Midway, Ticonderoga, and Bonn Hom Richard.

Mr. Palmatier returned to Coudersport for a short period of time. He then returned to work for the Spartan School of Aeronautics as head of the airplane maintenance school as an instructor. After a short time he again returned to Coudersport and started the Potato City Airport with his brother, Philip, of which they owned and operated for several years.

Mr. Palmatier returned to active duty serving during the Korean War as a jet fighter pilot. After serving in Korea, he was transferred to the Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida where he served as a Phase Coordinator in the Navy Airmen’s School from 1953 to 1954. His Naval career continued with his attending Ordinance School at various locations. Mr. Palmatier was the G-Division Ordinance Officer aboard the USS Midway in charge of all munitions. He completed his active duty military career in 1959 as a Lieutenant. During the next years, while serving in the Naval Reserves, he returned to Coudersport and worked for Pure Carbon Company for four years. He continued his military service with the Navy Reserves unit in Willow Grove, PA, and retired as a Navy Captain, with accumulated service of over 40 years. While serving in Willow Grove he was instrumental in starting an air/sea rescue helicopter squadron. Mr. Palmatier rescued a man with his helicopter who nearly went over Niagara Falls.

In 1964, Mr. Palmatier was elected to the office of Register and Recorder of Deeds and Wills of Potter County, an office he held until retiring after 24 years of service in 1986.

He was a member of the Coudersport Alliance Church, a member of Potter Post 192 American Legion, Coudersport, a member of the VFW, a member of Eulalia Lodge #342 F & AM, Coudersport, and a member of the Shrine.

Mr. Palmatier loved to fly, having taught each of children to fly. He owned many airplanes throughout his lifetime. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and playing his fiddle. He enjoyed doing yard work and gardening. He was very proud of his home.

Surviving are four children: Harry C. (Sachiko Kogure) Palmatier III of Atlanta, GA, Robert J. (Sharon) Palmatier of Orange Park, FL, Timothy J. (Nancy) Palmatier of Atlanta, GA, and Jeannie L. (Terry) Plummer of Fayetteville, NC; a stepson, Earle S. (Marcia) Monroe of Montgomery, Alabama; many grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; a sister, Irene M. (Almon) Freeman of Ulysses; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Mr. Palmatier was preceded in death by three sisters, infant Dorothy Palmatier, Betty A. (Milton) Freeman and Eleanor H. (Isaac) Dingman; and a brother, Philip F. (Alfreda) Palmatier.

Friends may call at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, PA on Thursday, July 29, 2010 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at which time funeral services will be held with Pastor Samuel M. Crossley, Care Minister of the Coudersport Alliance Church, officiating. Committal services and burial will be in the Eulalia Cemetery, Coudersport, PA.

Members of Eulalia Lodge #342 F & AM, Coudersport, will conduct a memorial service at 12:45 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Members of the Potter County Honor Guard will accord full military honors on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations being made to the Christmas House, 1 Water Street, Coudersport, PA 16915.

Orville L. Ford, 77, of Ceres, NY, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, July 22, 2010 in his home after suffering an apparent heart attack. Born January 28, 1933 in Ceres, PA, he was a son of Orville G. and Ava L. Sherwood Ford. On November 27, 1953 in Olean, NY, he married Delores J. Miller, who survives.

Mr. Ford was a graduate of Shinglehouse High School and served his country in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968. He was employed by Cooper Power Systems as a tool and die maker in Olean for 19 years retiring on May 31, 1996. Previously he had been employed by Keystone Tool & Die Company in Westons Mills and by Alcas Cutlery in Olean.

Mr. Ford attended the Ceres United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association. He was a volunteer at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport. He was an avid beekeeper, owning Or-Dels Apiary for many years. He enjoyed gardening, riding his motorcycle, and being with his family. His first and greatest love was serving the Lord.

Surviving besides his wife, are a son, Gordon D. Ford of Olean; a daughter, Kimberly S. Ford of Montclair, NJ; four brothers, Jack U. (Della) Ford of Shinglehouse, PA, Roland L. (Carol) Ford of Hoffmeister, NY, and Kenneth A. (Teresa) Ford and Dennis A. “Sam” (Sandy) Ford, both of Shinglehouse, PA; a sister, Jessie J. (Skip) Schoonover of Eldred, PA; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Ford was predeceased by three sisters, Lorena Pratt, Loretta McCaffrey and Agnes Pratt.

Friends may call on Sunday, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union St., Shinglehouse, PA, where funeral services will be held on Monday, July 26, 2010 at 11 a.m. The Rev. Daniel P. Grimes, pastor of the Ceres United Methodist Church, will officiate. Burial will be in the Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Portville.

Members of the Potter County Honor Guard will accord military honors on Monday at the funeral home.

Flowers are respectfully declined and will be furnished by the family. Memorials may be made to the Ceres United Methodist Church, 9289 School Street, Shinglehouse, PA 16748 or the Christian Motorcyclists Association, PO Box 9, Hatfield, AR 71945.

Thursday’s high, 79; Overnight low, 62; .64” rain before 7:00 am (.65 on Fishing Creek); an additional .72” fell during the morning and mid-day today on Fishing Creek, an estimated .25 within a 10 minute torrential downpour).

The body of a 24 year old Knoxville resident missing for about a day and a half was found this morning along Route 249 a quarter of a mile south of Davis Hill Road in Chatham Township, Tioga County. Mansfield based state police believe Matthew Wood died at about 11:00 pm Wednesday night when his 2000 Audi Sedan went off the road on a right hand curve, crossed both lanes of the highway; traveled over a guardrail; became airborne for about 200 feet while dropping down a steep 100 foot embankment landing in a creek below. Wood was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected upon impact with the creek bed. Police believe he was speeding at the time of the crash but do not know if he fell asleep or simply lost control of the sedan. Family and friends had been looking for him for him but the wrecked car could not be seen from the roadway. Anyone who may have information, is asked to call the Mansfield Barracks at 570-724-1490.

A Shinglehouse man is scheduled for a preliminary hearing next Thursday before District Judge Barbara Easton on charges of terroristic threats, disorderly conduct, providing alcohol to minors, possession of a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Shinglehouse borough police filed the charges against 26 year old Sean Thompson after being called to a domestic violence incident and hang up call June 19 at a house on Lincoln Street. Shinglehouse police Chief Bradley Bucholz was accompanied to the house by two state police troopers. As they approached the residence, the officers were told by Thompson that he had had a fight with his girlfriend, 20 year old Felicia Houghtaling of Westfield. Police questioned resident Ryan Bodecker and obtained permission from him, the owner of the house Paula Thompson and Sean Thompson to conduct a search after smelling what they considered to be burned marijuana. A pipe, containing burned vegetable material was found in the bathroom garbage can. The material tested field positive for pot. During the investigation, Sean Thompson stayed on the front porch and allegedly hollered obscenities and threats specifically stating he hated all police offers and would blow their heads off with a deer rifle. Meanwhile, Houghtaling reportedly admitted to police she had been drinking and allegedly failed the field sobriety test. She has been charged with underage consumption and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing August 2 before Judge Easton.

No Details are available yet from Coudersport-based state police regarding a crash last night on Butter Creek Road near Shinglehouse. The driver reportedly was found lying in the road some two hours after the crash and was airlifted from near the scene to an out of the area hospital.

A camp burglary occurring between 3:00 pm July 11 and 8:30 pm this past Tuesday in Wharton is being investigated by state police locally. Thieves cut a padlock to gain entry to the rear door at the camp owned by Richard Austin of North Huntingdon, PA and made off with about 20 DVDs a half case of beer and a full bottle of liquor. The thieves also cut a padlock on a shed but apparently did not take anything from the outbuilding.. This is the latest in a series of camp burglaries to be discovered in Southern Potter County in the recent weeks.

As we previously reported, the Potter County Commissioners have taken steps to divide the work in the assessment office. During the July 1 meeting, the commissioners hired Joe Lewis as Deputy I, Class V in the assessment office, effective July 6. Lewis, had been running the office but told the commissioners being responsible for day to day operations and field assessment work were too much for one person. The state eliminated the position of Township Assessor effective this past January, requiring a certified assessor to do the field work. Lewis saw a slight reduction in salary to take on the “outside” which he told the board he much prefers. During the July 15 meeting, the commissioners promoted Deanna Johnston to Director of Assessment at an annual salary of $28,500.00. She will remain in the union during this qualifying 60 day period. She will supervise the department and handle the “inside” duties. The board also promoted Linda Gambino to full-time Tax Claim Deputy Director, Class IV at an hourly rate of $10.16 with benefits for a qualifying period of 60 days. Both promotions were effective, Monday July 19. The position of The Tax Claim Secretary/Clerk, Class II position will be posted in the near future. In other personnel action, the commissioners granted a request from Domestic Relations Director Nancy Hurt to hire Dee Walters as a full-time temporary emergency Secretary/Clerk at an hourly wage of $8.20 for the period beginning July 19, 2010 through August 27, 2010. Two DRO employees are currently on medical leave. Ms. Walters is a retired DRO employee and is available to fill this position immediately. The union has approved this temporary hire. The Commissioners also accepted the resignation of Shannon Kurtz as 1^st Deputy Treasurer effective July 27, 2010.Kurtz has served the county since January 2000 and has accepted a position in the Northern Potter School District. The board also agreed to the temporary Emergency hire of Carrie Fanning as Housekeeper, Class I at an hourly rate of $8.20 effective July 19, 2010 to temporarily fill the vacancy left by the retirement of Sandy Schoonover. The hire was at the request of David Knowles, Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds.

Water Grants And Loans Awarded
Governor Ed Rendell announced this week, the investment of $129million in 41 drinking water and wastewater projects serving communities in 33 counties.
Of the $129 million total, $101 million is for low-interest loans and $28 million is offered as grants from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, known as PENNVEST.The awards range from a $213,000 loan to construct a manure storage facility in Lancaster County that will reduce nutrient runoff into the Chesapeake Bay watershed, to a $13 million loan that will be used to construct water collection and retention facilities that will eliminate the overloading of a wastewater treatment plant in Butler County that results in raw sewage running into nearby creeks. Foster Township in McKean County, is the only municipality in the Black Forest Service are to receive funding. The township received a $917,000 loan under the PennVest Wastewater program to construct more than two miles of sewage collection lines to serve portions of the township where malfunctioning on-lot septic systems are discharging untreated sewage into Kendall Creek and other publicly accessible areas.
For more information about PENNVEST, visit www.pennvest.state.pa.us<http://www.pennvest.state.pa.us/>.

Pennsylvania Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Office David Stewart, from the northwestern district of Clearfield County, has announced that a reward of up to $2,500 is available for information leading to the successful prosecution of the individual responsible for hunting-related shooting of a DuBois-area hunter and his 9-year-old son. The incident took place on the DuBois Beagle Club property off State Route 119 in Sandy Township, Clearfield County, on May 1, which was the opening day of the 2010 spring gobbler season.According to WCO Stewart, Orlando W. Prosper Jr., the victim, and his son, Garrett, were walking along a logging road. As the two crested a rise, the victim noticed a hunter set up about 50 yards away, so he and his son turned to leave the area. When they began to walk away, the pair was struck in the face, back and side with shotgun pellets. As the victim got back up on his feet, he saw the unidentified shooter leaving in a northerly direction, toward State Route 322.Prosper and his family contributed $1,000 toward the reward fund. Additionally, contributions of $500 each have been made to the reward fund by: Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF); the Susquehanna Chapter of the NWTF; and Pennsylvania Wildlife Habitat Unlimited. Those interested in contributing toward the reward fund are encouraged to send checks or commitment letters to the Pennsylvania Wildlife Habitat Unlimited, which is handling all reward money offers, at: P.O. Box 851, DuBois, PA 15801. Contacts for PWHU relative to this matter are Marty Hrin at 814-583-5979 or Don Brown 814-375-7429.In order to qualify for the reward Information relative to this investigation must be processed through the Game Commission’s “Turn-In-A-Poacher” (TIP) toll-free hotline, which is 1-888-PGC-8001. Information provided must be instrumental in leading to the successful prosecution of the individual responsible.

Sarah E. “Billie” Hendryx, 87, formerly of Coudersport, PA died Thursday, July 22, 2010 at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport.

Born on December 3, 1922 in Galeton, PA she was the daughter of Horatio Eugene and Ethel Mae Aley Bentley. She had been married to Frank E. Hendryx, who died in August of 1996.Mrs. Hendryx was a graduate of Galeton High School. She and her husband had lived in Coudersport for many years, moving to Florida in 1979. She recently returned to Pennsylvania to live with her daughters. While living in Coudersport she and her husband owned and operated Hendryx Trucking, where she was the bookkeeper. Later they had owned and operated The Old Hickory Tavern. After moving to Florida, she was employed at Walmart in Fort Myers. She was a life member of the American Legion Potter Post 192 Auxiliary. Surviving are two daughters, Gloria (John) Kelley of Port Allegany, PA, Roberta “Bobbie” (Jeff) Tucker of Coudersport, PA, two sons, Wayne “Jugger” (Vonda) Hendryx of Punta Gorda, FL, Steven Hendryx of Fort Myers, FL, twelve grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, one brother, John J. (Leslie) Kelley of Galeton, PA and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and a brother, Richard Bentley.There will be no visitation and services will be at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in Eulalia Cemetery in Coudersport. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of the Fickinger Funeral Home, Coudersport.

Wednesday’s high, 81; Overnight low, 66; .16” rain (.05 on Fishing Creek)

Coudersport based state police have charged 21 year old Travis Conklin with Theft for a crime taking place on May 10^th of this year at the home of George Poulopoulos in Keating Township. Authorities claim Conklin took an envelope from the victim which contained $865.00 in cash. One count each of theft and receiving stolen property have been filed against Conklin before District Judge Annette Easton.

Harassment charges have been filed against two defendants by Mansfield based state police following separate incidents. Michael Eyler, Jr. 40, of Mickleton, NJ was arrested after he allegedly grabbed a 40 year old woman from the same town by the neck and pushed her against a wall during an argument Saturday night at a residence on Mt. Zion Road Extension in Charleston Township. John Marengo, 31 of Westfield is charged with harassment for an incident occurring at about the same time Saturday night at a home on Route 249 in Westfield township. Troopers claim Marengo shoved a 25 year old woman during a domestic violence incident causing her to fall to the ground. Charges against both have been filed in District Court.

Troopers at Coudersport are continuing their investigation into a scattering of rubbish incident occurring Monday or Tuesday on Dodge Hollow Road in Harrison Township just east of the intersection of Cole Branch Road. Someone left 8 bags of garbage along the roadside. Anyone with information is asked to call the barracks at 814.274.8690.

More than 186,000 volunteers cleaned 19,373 miles of roads, trails and shorelines in Pennsylvania during the Great American Cleanup of PA, which ran from March 1 to May 31, according to PennDot. During the cleanup, 12 million pounds of trash was collected, with 3.7 million pounds collected by PennDOT’s Adopt-A-Highway program volunteers. There were 4,822 reported cleanup events statewide. Of the total miles cleaned, Adopt-A-Highway groups cleaned a record 12,340 miles of roadways, with the help of nearly 104,000 volunteers. Over the past three years, the Great American Cleanup of Pennsylvania has yielded more than 29.5 million pounds of collected trash, involved 533,627 volunteers and resulted in 54,940 miles of roadways cleaned. As part of those efforts, 284,838 Adopt-A-Highway volunteers collected more than 10.9 million pounds of litter on 32,678 miles of highway in that same period. PennDOT requires that Adopt-A-Highway volunteers complete four cleanups per year, and the groups were encouraged to join in the Great American Cleanup of PA. The 7,156 groups in the Adopt-A-Highway program have two-year commitments and have adopted 16,562 roadway miles. PennDOT provides gloves and safety vests for Adopt-A-Highway and Great American Cleanup of PA groups. The department typically spends approximately $11 million annually for litter pickup with department staff.

If you think you are seeing pink, around Coudersport you’re not alone. Several area residents are reporting an uncanny spotting of pink flamingos in the area this summer.Newly elected Coudersport Rotary President, Karen Cahilly tells Black Forest Broadcasting that the flamingo phenomenon was way overdue and much needed in the area. Cahilly says the local Rotary Cub is dedicated to continuing the local beautification and humanity projects and the flamingo campaign is a perfect fundraiser because it gives residents a chance to recognize others that have contributed something positive to their lives while at the same time raising money so that the Coudersport Rotary can continue to contribute to the Coudersport community as a whole. For a $25.00 donation, local rotary volunteers creep into the nighttime hours to strategically place 50 flamingos and a recognition banner in the yards of those loved ones and friends deserving to be recognized or merely in need of a smile. They can even leave a scroll on the door of the person being flamingoed containing a poem of recognition and praise. The money raised by the Coudersport Rotary is slated to fund the repainting of the area’s local parks’ equipment and the creation of visitors’ sitting areas throughout Coudersport. The campaign is scheduled to continue through September when the Coudersport Rotary kicks off its annual Dinner Auction. Coudersport residents wishing to “flamingo” a valued friend or loved one can place their order by calling the Coudersport Rotary Flamingo Hotline at 203-3933.

Herman E. (Jack) Close, Jr., 84, of Maple St.,Roulette, passed away Tuesday (July 20, 2010) at home with his family by his side.
Born Sept. 16, 1925, in Emporium, PA, he was a son of Herman E. and Lettie Craven Close. On January 19, 1959, in Buffalo, NY, he married Beverly J. Smith, who survives.Mr. Close was owner and operator of Close's Feed & Supply Store, Roulette, before retirement.He was a veteran of WWII, having served in the Merchant Marines from 1944-45.He was a member of the Chestnut Street Baptist Church of Port Allegany, life member of the Roulette Fire Department, former Roulette Township secretary, and former head of Potter County Fair Association. He enjoyed fishing trips to Canada, collecting Moon & Star glass, and singing.Surviving in addition to his wife, Beverly, is a daughter, Rhonda K. (Dave) Turner and a grandson, Chad Turner both of Atlanta, GA; three brothers, Edwin Close of New Port Richey, FL, Alvin (Martha) Close of Roanoke, VA, Donald (Helen) Close of Eldred; and several nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Grace Anderson and Aletha Slottje.There will be no visitation. Friends are invited to attend a memorial service at a later time and place to be announced.
Memorials can be made to the Chestnut Street Baptist Church, Roulette Fire Department, or American Cancer Society.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Switzer Funeral Home, Port Allegany.

Tuesday’s high, 77; Overnight low, 64; (no precip. except for a few sprinkles on Fishing Creek)

The National Weather Service has posted a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Potter and Tioga Counties until 8:00 o’clock tonight.

A Leighton, PA driver is being charged with careless driving following a one-vehicle crash just b before 5:00 am Monday on Route 6 near Eulalia Street in Coudersport Borough. State police said a Ford-F-350 driven by Carl Metz, 57, failed to negotiate a curve while headed west, went off the road and struck an embankment. Both Metz and his passenger, Paul Frable, 58, also of Leighton were wearing seatbelts and escaped injury.

State police here are looking for a commercial vehicle which tore down some phone lines at about 4:00pm Monday on Route 44 near Cherry Springs State Park. Troopers say an unknown commercial vehicle with an oversize load pulled down a Verizon wire causing the road to be temporarily closed. Anyone with information is asked to call the Coudersport Barracks at 814-274-8690.

An Emporium man was picked up by Coudersport-based state police Monday afternoon near the Friendly Inn on Main Street in Roulette on a warrant from Cameron County. Caleb Smith, 19, was wanted by Cameron County authorities for violating a probation requirement concerning his whereabouts. While taking Smith into custody, troopers allegedly found miscellaneous drug paraphernalia on his person. He was taken to the Potter County jail on the warrant but now faces charges in Potter County District Court for possessing drug paraphernalia.

The theft of several catalytic converters from a Hebron Township business is being probed by Coudersport based state police. Thieves took the items from Hanchett Auto on Dry Run Road between 6:00 pm July 9 and 8:15 am July 10. No value was provided by authorities but anyone with information is asked to call the Coudersport barracks.

In recent Potter County Court action, 19 year old Jennifer Micale of St. Marys was ordered to spend 12 months on probation; pay a $500 fine; perform 30 hours of community service and pay restitution of $1612.00 for making false reports. Micale was also ordered to spend six more months on probation, consecutive to the first charge and pay a $300 fine for making a statement under penalty. According to Potter County District Attorney Andy Watson, Micale told state police in May 2009 she had been raped by two known males but after an “extensive investigation,” authorities found that while sexual intercourse had taken place, it was consensual.

An Austin woman was ordered to spend 20 days to six months in jail and perform 30 hours of community service for DUI. Tanya Popielarczyk. 25, was also ordered to attend the DUI Safe Driving School and participate in the Potter County DUI Victim Impact Panel. According to DA Watson, Popielarczyk was arrested on November 8, 2008 after state police pulled her over in Coudersport Borough for a non-functioning tail-light on her vehicle. Troopers detected a strong odor of alcohol coming from Popielarczyk and slurred speech. She admitted to drinking two beers and when asked to do the field sobriety test, she told officers, “Just arrest me for DUI, I am drunk.” She was taken to Charles Cole Hospital for chemical testing which showed an alcohol level of .20%, confirming her assertion. The legal limit in Pennsylvania is .08%.

Denise S. Leonard, 43, of Port Allegany, died Monday (July 19, 2010) at her residence in Port Allegany.She was born May 31, 1967 in Port Allegany, a daughter of Leland T. and Margaret Moyer Stalhman. On April 12, 2003, in Hawaii, she married David R. Leonard, who survives.Mrs. Leonard was a 1985 graduate of Port Allegany High School and attended St. Joseph School of Nursing, Elmira, NY, where she received her registered nursing degree.Mrs. Leonard was the RN supervisor employed by Sena Kean Manor, Smethport. She had worked prior at Lakeview Senior Care and Living Center, Smethport, and at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport.She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Port Allegany. She enjoyed gardening, loved all animals, and walking. In addition to her husband and parents she is survived by two daughters: Rachel A. Edgreen and Jillian N. Edgreen, both of Port Allegany, PA two sisters: Diane (Sam) Dynda of Port Allegany, PA, Debbie (Tony) Gamboa of Woodbridge, VA
one brother: David (Nikki) Stalhman of Port Allegany, PA
Step-son, Beau M. (Stephanie) Leonard of Sierra Vista, AZ; step daughter, Brittany N. (Michael) Greenman of Port Allegany, PA; step grandchildren, Emma J. Leonard, Braiden M. Greenman, Blaine A. Greenman.Visitation will be held on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc, 105 N Main St, Port Allegany, PA. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, from the First Presbyterian Church, Port Allegany, with Garen Smith, Commissioned Lay Pastor, officiating. Memorials may be made to McKean County SPCA, 80 Glennwood Ave., Bradford, PA 16701. Online condolences can be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.comArrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany.

Numerous citations are pending against a 23 year old Osceola driver following a crash Saturday morning on Soules Road in Farmington Township, Tioga County “State police at Mansfield overnight released details saying a Ford Explorer driven by Crystal Stone went out of control on a left curve, went off the road, struck a tree and spun 180 degrees backward down a 10 feet embankment before coming to rest at about 7:30 am. Stone , who was not wearing a seatbelt was taken to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro by private vehicle.

A Westfield driver is being cited for multiple traffic violations following a one-vehicle crash a couple of hours earlier Saturday morning in Deerfield Township. While troopers were at the scene of a fatal crash on Route 49, they were summoned to a wreck non Baker Hill Road. Michael Yawger, 22, was traveling West when his Chevrolet Silverado crossed the road and struck a tree. Yawger was wearing a seatbelt and escaped injury

Kane-based state police are probing a burglary taking place this past weekend at a home on Route 59 in Keating Township. Thieves entered the home of a 65 year old woman through an unlocked door and removed several household items between 6:00 pm Sunday and 3:00 pm Monday. Stolen items included pictures, blankets, rugs, an end table, curtains and a stereo. Before leaving the residence, the criminals dug up and removed several flowers from the lawn.

Several camp in Summit and West Branch Township Potter County is being investigated by Coudersport-based state police Sometime last week, Thieves forcibly entered four camps along the Sunken Branch Road. It’s unknown at this time what, if anything was taken but authorities they will release more details should they become available.

The theft of a couple of bicycles from the Nine Mile Hotel in Ulysses Township is under investigation by state police at Coudersport. Thieves took a man’s red bike with black carrier on the back, steel fenders and a metal basket on the front and a woman’s blue bike which had steel fenders. No value for the bikes was given. They were taken between July 8 and 17.

Troopers at Mansfield are looking for the thief who took some money from a residence along Horse Thief Road in Delmar Township last Friday or Saturday. Steven Whittle told authorities someone stole a $100 bill from his wallet while it was unattended at his home.

As we reported yesterday, Wildlife management Units in the Black Forest Service area, 2F and 3G have exhausted their doe license applications. WMU 3A covering the area north of Route 6 in Potter ,McKean and Tioga Counties has a little more than 16,000 licenses still available. Hunters can find out the status of their application by going to the game commission’s website www. pgc.state.pa. us and following the prompts.

Thompson Announces Disaster Designations for Clarion, Venango, Warren Counties

U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, says he was notified Monday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack has agreed that there were sufficient production losses in Clarion, Venango, and Warren Counties to warrant a disaster designation. The designation was based on losses that occurred due to a late season frost in the second week of May, 2010.The designation makes farm operators eligible for assistance from the Farm Service Agency, including emergency loans and the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments Program (SURE). Farmers have eight months from July 16, 2010--when the Secretary made the designation, to apply for assistance.The contiguous counties of Armstrong, Butler, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, McKean and Mercer also qualify for emergency loans.Contact the FSA office in Clarion at 814-226-8160 and in DuBois at 814-375-1297.

The following website will take farmers to the Pennsylvania site for the Farm Service Agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture:

Potter County Habitat for Humanity tells Black Forest Broadcasting News that they are looking for someone to move the house from the Port Allegany Seneca Highlands Vo-Tech to the lot in Galeton. If you know of anyone who has the equipment and would be willing to move it for the organization, please call Jim and Charlotte Blain Volunteer Coordinators (814) 558-3282 (cell)

Organizers of the Dam Show have a special treat for this year’s
audience, in preparation for next year’s Austin flood centennial –
free admission. They’ve also announced another major change for this year’s show,scheduled for July 23-24. To emphasize the growing connection between Austin Dam Memorial Park and the town itself, their eighth annual Dam Show is moving to the town square. Friday’s show will open with the traditional “Dam Jam,” featuring a cavalcade of talented local and regional performers at 5 pm. The eclectic Freakish Owl Boy will follow. Friday night’s finale is RawDough of Columbus, Ohio, a versatile jam band with rock and jazz influences and a style similar to Phish.On Saturday, the Dam Show opens with a children’s sing-along program at 11 am, followed at 1 pm by local musicians at 2, and then a trio of headline performers in Saturday’s prime time slots: Fellswoop (5:30), Billy Branch with the
Sons of Blues Band (7:30), and The Feast.All three of the headliners are national recording artists who have their own following on the concert and festival circuit. Fellswoop, which hails from Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, blends traditional bluegrass with speedy picking and unexpected twists.
Billy Branch is one of Chicago’s most in-demand blues musicians,
sometimes called “The Harmonica Man.”
The Feast, from Buffalo, N.Y., will close out Dam Show VIII with a
lively progressive rock finale, full of tight guitar work and
locked-in vocal harmonies. An updated website at dam show.com includes links to some of the performers’ websites, complete with music samples, to help attendees plan their weekend. Free parking will be available in town and at the Austin School. Those attending are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for seating. The Dam Show has evolved into one of the region’s most eclectic and fastest-growing summertime celebrations, complete with quality music vendors, and fun for all ages. Austin Dam Memorial Association hosts the Dam Show, with support from
the Potter County Fine Arts Council, Dominion Resources Inc., Penn
Virginia Corporation and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts- PA
Partners in the Arts program. Partners in the Arts program. In preparation for next year’s Austin Dam Disaster Centennial, admission to this year’s show is free of charge.

Sunday’s high, 81; Overnight low, 63; (.03” precip. before 7:00 am).08” on Fishing Creek: .90” fell overnight Saturday into Sunday morning on Fishing Creek)

Alcohol is believed to have been a factor in a fatal collision early Saturday morning on Route 49 just west of Crance Brook Road in Westfield Township, Tioga County. State police say 22 year old Shane Burke of Knoxville was headed east in a 2003 Chrysler Sebring which crossed into the opposite lane and collided with a 2000 White Farm Tractor towing a feed mixer driven by 68 year old Stanley Brubaker of Westfield at about 4:30 am. Burke, who was not wearing a seatbelt was thrown out of his car up impact. He was pronounced dead at the scene by Deputy Tioga County Coroner Robert Gee at 5:45 am. Death was attributed to multiple blunt force trauma. Brubaker was unhurt. Troopers said he had tried unsuccessfully to get completely off the road to avoid impact.