Potter Commissioners Consider $350,000.00 Loan

Construction Overruns Helped To Drain Budget
Photo by James Jones (c) 2008
Potter County Wireless 911 Building At Maple View

County Budget Work Winding Down

Fine-tuning continues on the 2009 county budget. Commissioners Doug Morley, Susan Kefover and Paul Heimel will be zeroing-in on budget line items in the coming week. Their goal is to maintain an acceptable level of services while avoiding a county real estate tax for the second consecutive year.

Among the challenges facing the commissioners are locked-in expenses, including pay increases dictated by labor union contracts, higher utility bills and rising health insurance premiums. Additionally, counties across Pennsylvania have been victimized by the state’s growing economic crisis.

Another factor in the budget preparation is the draining of the county’s Building Improvement Fund as a result of the Emergency Services Wireless 911 building at Maple View. That construction contract was awarded late last year and the project encountered cost overruns this year.

The commissioners are considering the option of taking out a loan of roughly $350,000 to restore the Building Improvement Fund without having to consider a tax increase for 2009.

Additional details on the 2009 budget will be discussed at the next Board of Commissioners meeting, to be held at 11 am Thursday, Dec. 4, at the F. W. Gunzburger County Office Building at Main and Water streets in Coudersport. The meeting is open to the public. Meetings are held in the first office on the left inside the front entrance. Potter County Today

Coudersport Emergency Units Dispatched For A Land Rescue

BREAKING NEWS:4:50pm-11-29-08
Coudersport Fire and Ambulance units have been dispatched to Mitchell Hollow Road where a person has been reported to have been run over by a tractor.

2 Vehicle Head-On Crash Reported On 2 Mile Road

BREAKING NEWS:4:40pm-11-29-08
Port Allegany Fire and ambulance units are responding to the report of a two-vehicle head on crash on the Two Mile Road. Photo courtesy of Star Hose Company.

UPDATE with photos

Snow, Sleet & Freezing Rain Advisory Issued

The National Weather Service in State College has issued a Winter
Weather Advisory for snow... sleet and freezing rain from 9 am
Sunday to 4 am EST Monday.

A storm system developing over the Gulf states this
afternoon... will move northward and into the eastern Great Lakes
during the day Sunday. This will bring a variety of wintry weather
to the region... starting off as rain or freezing rain along the
Maryland border counties... and snow further north.

Precipitation will
mix with sleet or freezing rain before changing to plain rain by
mid day over much of the south central mountains and Susquehanna
valley. Over the Laurel Highlands and further north... from
Interstate 80 up to the New York border... a prolonged period of
mixed precipitation is possible which will lead to slippery travel
conditions.

Snow amounts across across the area from Interstate 80 northward
will average in the 1 to 3 inch range... with a coating of ice
possible. South of the Interstate a slushy inch or two of snow is
possible before the changeover to some sleet or freezing rain. Ice
and snow accumulations in these areas will be on the light
side... but still capable of causing slippery roads.

Rescue Units Responding To Sliding Accident

BREAKING NEWS:2:00pm-11-29-08
Rescue units have been dispatched to a sliding accident at a location not accessible by vehicle.

Medic 16 is on the scene in the woods off Bordell Road in McKean County. A helicopter placed on standby has been dismissed.

Echo Lanes In Cuba Destroyed By Fire

Canisteo Valley News
There was a fire at Echo Lanes (a bowling alley/bar/restaurant) in Cuba.
There were no injuries, but the building is a total loss.

Neighboring Business, Others, Can Take Control Of Property In New PA Law To Take Effect In February

New state law helps fight blight

Old Hickory in Coudersport. Is it blight or a
historic jewel in need of repair and preservation?

Anonymous said...

I noticed your picture of the Old HIckory and wanted to let your readers know that I met with owner David Polliard on Saturday and was assured that the renovation will begin soon. He and his wife are using their own funding to restore the building and are currently looking at funding options including the National Registrar funding program which may be able to help restore what was once a main attraction in our community, Please be patient a little longer.
Shirlee Leete

Sunday, November 30, 2008 10:26:00 AM EST

BY ROBERT SWIFT
HARRISBURG BUREAU CHIEF

Times Tribune
HARRISBURG — Communities have new powers to tackle blight under a law signed this week by Gov. Ed Rendell.

The law gives court-appointed conservators a green light to fix up seriously blighted buildings. Taking effect in late February, the law enables a municipality, school district, local non-profit corporation or business within 500 feet of a property to petition county Common Pleas Court to appoint a conservator. The conservator would have authority to take control of a property and bring it up to building code requirements. More....

Interesting Comment Received Today--Was It???

genpapier has left a new comment on your post "Amish Man Hospitalized By Mountain Lion Attack":

I hesitate to post this but don't see any harm. I was driving, last night, between Wellsboro and Sylvania and saw what looked like a mountain lion.

It was definetly not a dog, deer, house cat or bob cat. It looked slightly like an elongated pit bull in that it was muscular and was greyish tan. I would think it weighed 100+ pounds. It was low with it's head lower than shoulders and it's shoulders perhaps two feet from the ground - maybe a little less maybe a little more.

It was fast and direct and what I saw was a perfect side view. In the short instant I saw it clearly I detected no tail but it's head, shoulders and back was all feline. If I drew what I saw it would be a mountain lion. I've never seen an animal move quite like this outside. It's speed was tremendous.

It has played over and over in my mind and I just can't believe what I saw completely. It's strange to see something and for my brain not to be comfortable - like being in shock when you see something over and over like in slow motion.

I came across these posts trying to find out more and could relate to both the skeptics and the folks who have said seeing is believing. I would also add to this that in the few miles before my sighting of this animal I saw several small animals moving with their own directness and speed across the road. There was enough action to make me wonder if there was a fire or an earthquake.

This as an objective description as possible for me. I wish I had it to do over again because a tail would have clinched it for me.

Trout Unlimited, Others Express Concern Over Natural Gas Drilling

Environmental, sportsmen's groups want stricter regulation of natural gas projects

By Don Hopey,
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Thirteen environmental and sportsmen's organizations have asked the state to do a better job regulating water use and disposal by deep natural gas well drillers that are rushing to tap into the potentially lucrative Marcellus Shales geologic formation.

In a Tuesday letter to the state Department of Environmental Protection, the groups said that if the deep well drilling boom continues without adequate regulation, permitting and enforcement it could "irreparably and unnecessarily harm habitat and water resources. ... in some of the most pristine parts of the state." More....

$15,000.00 Reward Offered For Information

WESB News: 11/29/08 - Family of Anderson Offers Reward

The family of 36-year-old Corrie Anderson is offering a $15,000 reward for any information on Corrie's whereabouts. Corrie was last seen leaving the Lake County Dodge Dealership in Jamestown on October 28th.

The Warren County Chapter of Crimestoppers and Western New York law enforcement are also offering rewards for information in the case. Ongoing searches for Anderson have left police agencies baffled. The family has also created a website findcorrie.com.

Area Obituaries

ELDRED — Susan R. Shay, 63, of King Street died Thursday (Nov. 27, 2008) in the Erie County Medical Center, Buffalo, N.Y., following a sudden illness. The Frame Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Craft Show At Gunzburger Building Saturday From 9:00am to 4:00pm

Curt Weinhold To Display Photos At Craft Show
Cherry Springs Vista

Denton Hill in Winter

Meet photographer Curt Weinhold Saturday at the
Festival of Lights Craft Show at the Gunzburger Building
on Main Street in Coudersport. Curt is a frequent
contributor of photos on Solomon's words. Stop in and
meet him and look over some of his beautiful photography.
If you can't make it, you can see his photos online at
http://www.pbase.com/cwphoto

Port Allegany Responding To Possible Structure Fire

BREAKING NEWS:7:35pm-11-28-08
A possible structure fire involving a chimney has been reported on the Hamilton Run Road.

Port Allegany firefighters are responding. Roulette has been sent to Port Allegany for standby.

All units returning 8:15---UPDATE with photos

Today's News From GerriMiller.com

Gerri Miller

Bringing news to the
twin tiers for 29 years

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

November 28, 2008

Thursday’s high: 43, Overnight low: 23

Breezy, overcast with a few flurries

The National Weather Service has issued a Lake Effect

Snow Warning for Cattaraugus County

A Lake Effect Snow Advisory for Allegany County until

6:00 a.m. Saturday

Car/Deer Collisions Investigated
It’s the time of year for car/deer collisions and area state police report investigating a couple recently. A Shinglehouse couple escaped injury Sunday night in on Route 44 a half mile south of the Legion Road in Sharon Township when their Dodge van struck a whitetail which had come onto the highway in their path. Troopers said both the driver, Lowell Dickerson and his wife, Celia where wearing seatbelts and escaped injury. A Port Allegany driver and her passenger also escaped injury in an encounter with a deer on Route 6 in Liberty township Thursday night. Authorities said Kari Stake was headed east near the Brooklynside road when her Ford Explorer hit a deer. The impact caused disabling damage to the SUV. Stake and her passenger Michael Backus, also of Port were also wearing seatbelts and escaped injury.

Summary Traffic Charges being Filed after Crash
Minor injuries were reported for 30 year old Timothy Bittner of Eldred following a crash around noontime Tuesday on the Kinney Road a half mile west of Route 244 in Genesee Township. State police said Bittner lost control of his Chevy S-10 while rounding a right hand curve. The pick-up traveled off the road and went over an embankment into a culvert where it came to rest.

DUI Charges Pending Against Downstate Driver
State police here say they are filing DUI charges against 44 year old Eugene Graybill II after pulling him over last Saturday night on the Bean Hill Road south of Germania when he allegedly failed to use his turn signal while making a right hand turn. Police say they determined he was driving under the influence of alcohol and took him to Charles Cole Hospital for chemical testing.

Coudersport Woman Charged with Biting
Troopers locally have also charged 29yer old Angela Elliott of North Main Street Coudersport with harassment in connection to an incident allegedly taking place Tuesday night in her home. Authorities claim Elliott bit the left collar bone and right shoulder of a 30 year old male victim during an argument.

Port Allegany Man Charged with Criminal Trespass
Kane-based state police have charged 54 year old Billy Taylor, Sr. with criminal trespass after he allegedly entered the home of Janet Taylor on Route 155 in Liberty Township Wednesday morning after being told he was not privileged to do so.

Looking for Missing Money
Coudersport-based state police say they are looking for the thief who stole cash from a dead man earlier this year. Troopers said while conducting their investigation into the death of Mark Higley which occurred during the early morning of September 5, they discovered that prior to being transported to Charles Cole Hospital, Higley had $300 in cash in his wallet but it was missing upon his arrival at the hospital. The money is apparently the property of Jane Higley of Port Allegany. The investigation is continuing.

Potter County Still Leads State in Bear Harvest
Two days of bear hunting have produced a preliminary harvest of 2,518 bears, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission reports.In 2007, 1,638 bears passed through check stations the first two days. In 2006, 2,185 bears were taken. In 2005, when the state record bear harvest was set, agency personnel processed 2,875 bears through the first two days of season; 2,262 in 2004; 2,299 in 2003; and 2,022 in 2002. After the second day, Potter County still led the state in the number of bears taken with 256 (87 in 2007), followed by Tioga, 205 (102); Lycoming, 195 (97); McKean, 126 (80); and Clearfield, 98 (70). The three-day statewide season concluded on Wednesday but there is an extended season in some WMUs.

Enhanced Traveler Information Services Coming
Starting next summer, motorists across Pennsylvania will have access to additional statewide travel information according to an announcement from PennDot.By next summer, 511 Pennsylvania will provide free traveler information services such as travel delays, road and weather conditions and regional tourism information that will be accessible via the Internet and phone. Users will be able to register for proactive travel alerts, provided through e-mail and text messaging. The 511 system will also provide transit and air travel information in metropolitan areas around the state. PennDOT plans to expand services in the future. The Federal Communications Commission designated 511 as the nationwide three-digit telephone number for traveler information. Thirty-three states have 511 services. Telvent Farradyne was recently selected as the contractor to lead the development and execution of Pennsylvania’s 511 system.
In the meantime, PennDot says travelers can access current traveler information at: www.dot.state.pa.us. Motorists will find travel conditions for all Pennsylvania interstates, as well as travel advisories, weather forecasts and traffic cameras. The travel page also includes a winter driving guide, the “Ice and Snow, Take it Slow” brochure. The guide provides winter driving tips and includes a list of what should be included in a simple emergency travel kit. PennDOT also reminds travelers that weather-related road condition information for all Pennsylvania interstates can be obtained by calling the interstate road conditions hotline at 1-888-783-6783 for in-state callers; out-of-state callers should dial 717-783-5186.

Calendar Of Events From GerriMiller.com

November 28
The Festival Lights will be held in Coudersport Prizes will be awarded in three categories of trees decorated on the court house square—Family, Business and Youth Group. The light up begins at 6:00 p.m. Santa will arrive at 6:30. There will be a craft show Saturday from 9:00 to 4:00 in the Gunzburger Annex, the former Adelphia School Building. Santa will be available for pictures in the Annex beginning at 1:00 p.m.

November 29
Sweden Valley Manor will have a craft show from 10:00 until 2:00 with over 30 vendors. The public is invited. Santa will be there at 11:30 to have lunch with the residents.

November 29
Galeton’s Christmas in a Small Town will be held from10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.There will be specials at area businesses and events throughout the town

November 29
There will be a ham and turkey raffle at the Roulette Fire Hall. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., raffle starts at 7:00. Free refreshments, raffles, door prizes, meat giveways. Must be 21 or older to attend.

November 30
The Coudersport Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary will have a pancake breakfast at the fire hall on Route 6 west from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Dine in or take out. 274-7012.

November 30
Austin Cub Scout Pack 524 will hold an All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast from 8 am to 12 noon at the Austin Firehall. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage or bacon, scrambled eggs, coffee or juice. Cost is $6.00 for adults and $4.00 for children ages 3-12. Children under 3 eat free. A 50/50 Raffle will also be held at the event.

Big Woods Whitetail Classic Buck Contest

Hunters who bag bucks in the upcoming deer season are invited to enter them into the Big Woods Whitetail Classic buck contest, being held at the Laurelwood Inn Motel and Steak House, located on Route 6 East, just outside of Coudersport.

Hunters can enter their deer between 8 am and 8 pm the first three days, and after 4 pm the remainder of the season.

Prizes will be awarded to the hunters who enter the top two bucks in two categories: antler division and weight division.

Prizes are being supplied by contest sponsor Gore-Tex. As an added bonus, the Sweden Feedin' Club will also be holding its popular smallest buck and heaviest coyote contest.

Prizes will be awarded for each during the first three days of the contest only.

Antler score will be tabulated by adding the number of antler points to size of the antler's outside spread at its widest point (in inches).

The winner of the antler and weight divisions will receive a full Gore-Tex hunting outfit, including boots. Winners will be able to select his or her outerwear directly through Gore-Tex after the hunt and have it customized.

Prizes will also be awarded to the second place winner in each division. To enter the contest, hunters must harvest their deer in either Potter or Cameron counties.

To be eligible for prizes, successful hunters must register their buck and sign the Big Woods Whitetail Classic Roster Board. All hunters who enter the contest will receive their official Big Woods Whitetail Classic registration photo free.

They will also have the opportunity to order additional prints and other photo products.

Expert Sought To Assess Courthouse Exterior

The Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission (PHMC) is being asked to assign an expert to study the exterior of the courthouse and weigh the choices of either repainting the building or stripping the many coats of paint to expose the brick masonry. An application for technical assistance is being submitted by the Potter County Commissioners and Potter County Historical Society. If it’s approved, there will be no cost to Potter County.

The courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings and is the centerpiece of the Coudersport Historic District. It was built in 1851-53 of Victorian architecture. The Greek Revival style, blended with later Victorian elements, and the setting of the courthouse in the open town square, create a stately appearance.

On several occasions over time, the county has opted to apply new coats of paint in order to improve the building’s appearance and preserve, to the extent possible, the integrity of the brick exterior.

For most of the courthouse’s life, technology did not exist to adequately clean and preserve masonry. Owners assumed that the best way to prevent water from penetrating masonry was to seal it with paint. However, studies show that paint has limited ability to allow water vapor to move through a material.

As a result, moisture becomes trapped in the masonry behind the paint. It’s then subject to the natural expansive forces of the freeze-thaw cycle. Over time, this deteriorates the masonry. Trapped moisture also contributes to the crystallization of soluble salts, which can cause masonry to deteriorate.

Restoration of the masonry on the Potter County Courthouse has the potential not only to beautify the county seat, but also to preserve the structural integrity of this historic and appealing property for future generations. Potter County Today

Louise S. Catlin, 93, Formerly Of Port Allegany, PA

PORT ALLEGANY- Louise S. Catlin, 93, formerly of Mill St., died Tuesday (Nov. 25, 2008) in the Otterbein Retirement Community, Lebanon, OH.

Born October 27, 1915, in Norwich, Pa, she was a daughter of Henry and Luella M. Knarr Smith. On June 30, 1942, she married Charles H. Catlin, who died Nov. 4, 1979.

Mrs. Catlin was an elementary teacher in Port Allegany, for many years, before retiring.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Port Allegany; Past Matron of the former Myrtle Chapter of O.E.S., Port Allegany; member of the Fine Arts Committee, Friends of the Library, and the McKean County Chapter of Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees.

Surviving are a son, Philip E. (Laureen) Catlin of Mason, OH; three grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Charles, and a brother, James E. Smith.

Friends will be received from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 29, 2008) in the Switzer Funeral Home, Port Allegany. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. in the United Methodist Church, Port Allegany, with the Rev. Randall Headley, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Port Allegany.

Memorials can be made to the United Methodist Church or the S.W. Smith Library.

Robert A. Buck, 73, Raymond, PA

Robert A. Buck, 73, of Raymond, PA, died Thursday, November 27, 2008 in the Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport, PA.

Born March 1, 1935, in Coudersport, PA, he was the son of Lawrence E. and Mabel Evans Buck.

A 1954 graduate of Ulysses High School, he served honorably with the US Army from 1955 – 1957.

On April 4, 1959, in Gold, PA, he married the former Jeannette Morley, who survives.

Bob was employed as the first bulk milk hauler in Potter county by Sunnydale Farms and its successors for 17 years. He was employed by Willis Conable hauling chips and logs and then by Witter Oil from 1986 until his retirement in 1994. He attended the Gold Baptist Church and was a charter member of the Allegheny Mountain Engine and Implement Association.

Surviving besides his wife, Jeannette, are: two sons, Eric (Rhonda) Buck and Erin (Dina) Buck, both of Gold; five grandchildren, Rheanna Buck, Brian R. Buck, Jesse Buck, Jenna Buck, and Brandon Buck; a foster son Curt (Brenda) Silsby of Sparta, WI and his children, Rick, Christopher, and Michelle; three sisters, Grace Kear of Ulysses, PA, Jean Howe of Walnut Creek, CA, and Dorothy Erway of Coudersport; a brother, Raymond (Sylvia) Buck of Ulysses; and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son, Evan R. Buck in 1994; three sisters, Lois Wilson, Gladys Angood, and Louise Miller; and a brother, Roger L. Buck.

Friends may call Sunday, November 30, 2008 from 3:00 – 5:00 PM at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Monday at 11:00 AM. The Rev. Rev. Ralph O. Wagner will officiate. Burial will be in Raymond Cemetery, Allegany Township.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1128 State Street, Suite 301, Erie, PA 16501.

Grace M. Truax, 101, Harrison Valley, Formerly North Fork, PA

Grace M. Truax, 101, of Harrison Valley, Pa., formerly of North Fork, PA, passed away peacefully Thursday, November 27, 2008 in Joanne's House at Hope Hospice, Bonita Springs, FL

Born June 2, 1907 on the Statham Farm near North Fork, she was a daughter of Carlos "Carl" and Ida Smith Statham.

A 1924 graduate of the Harrison Valley High School, she attended three summer sessions at Mansfield Normal School and taught two years in one room schools at Brookfield and Sunderlinville.

On May 10, 1935, in Saunders, NY, she married Benjamin E. "Bennie" Truax, who predeceased her on June 12, 1994.

Mrs. Truax and her husband owned and operated the North Fork Store for 52 years. She was a member of the former North Fork United Methodist Church, Victoria Grange, life member of the order of the Eastern Star #33 Cowanesque Chaper, and attended the Harrison Valley Federated Church. She had served as Harrison Township Republican Committee woman.

Surviving are: a son, Dr. Bennie S. (Gail) Truax of Bonita Springs, FL; grandsons, Todd Truax of Eglin AFB, FL and Tim (Anita) Truax of York, PA; six great-grandchildren, Chelsea Marie, Kirsten, Ashley, Chelsi Gia, Chad and Eli and nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by two brothers, Rev. Clair Statham and Edwin Statham; and two sisters, Ethel Scarcel and Alice Mascho.

Friends may call Friday, December, 5th from 7 to 9 PM at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, December 6th at 10 AM. The Rev. James Truax will officiate assisted by Rev. Ed Collins. Burial will be in Mills Cemetery in her beloved Potter County.

To honor Bennie and Grace's life long love of music through their son ,Ben, memorials may be made to the Shippensburg University Foundation, c/o Dr. Bennie S. Truax Scholarship Fund (Outstanding Student Leadership in the SU Marching Band), 1871 Old Main Drive, Shippensburg, PA 17257.

Accident on Coudersport Main Street

BREAKING NEWS:11:20 am-11-28-08
A two car accident has been reported in front of the Maple Tree Restaurant on Main Street in Coudersport. Emergency services have been dispatched.

Tractor-Trailer Head-on Crash Reported

BREAKING NEWS:10:23am-11-28-08
Kane Fire and Ambulance has just been dispatched to a head-on accident at Rt. 66 and Route 948 south of Kane. The report indicates 2 tractor trailers have collided head-on, leaving both vehicles on their sides.

Bolivar NY Police Chief To Be Recognized

WESB News: 11/28/08 - Bolivar Police Chief to Get Medal of Honor

Bolivar Police Chief Ricky Whitney is one of five police officers who will be presented with a Medal of Honor from the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police next Wednesday.

Whitney apprehend a suspect after an armed robbery back in November of 2007. Whitney exchanged gunfire with the robber and apprehended him after a chase in Wellsville.

They Sound Like A Huge Jet Hovering Above Our Home

To the editor:

I live in Somerset County, one and one-half miles off the main road between two ridgelines.

On the west side of our home is an 18-turbine wind facility with six turbines located 1,390 to 1,500 feet from our back door.

Don't let any one tell you that they are not loud! They sound like a huge jet hovering above our home. I have been getting readings anywhere from 55 to 70 decibels late at night.

Some people in our area are complaining about the noise a mile away. We checked and, yes, you can hear them that far away.

Now there is another wind company planning to put a wind facility on the ridge 1,800 feet from our front door on the east side of our home. The wind power company did a noise study after we asked them. We are still waiting for the results. The man who did the study told me that we will never be able to live with the noise.

As I write this letter, I am getting shadow flickering from the turbines. The flickering passes through my kitchen this time of day. It makes you dizzy. The only way to avoid it is to pull your blinds and drapes shut. I don't like living like a bat!

We were not totally against wind turbines when they put them there, but since they began running in September our feelings have changed. They ruined the mountain and the peace and quiet we once loved is gone.

We were told that the turbines would not cause any problems; in fact we would not even know they were there. They lied.

I would be glad to talk to anyone who would want more information on them. We love Cameron County and own land there; I only hope they never put any on those mountains.
Ginny Deeter
ginrn@wpia.net
Berlin, Pa.

Daughter Of Man Who Found Baby Charged

Breaking News: Police charge Berwick mother with abandoning newborn

Citizen Voice
The 23-year-old mother of a newborn was charged early Thursday by Berwick police with abandoning her baby outside a bathroom window in a plastic bag in 17-degree temperatures with the umbilical cord wrapped around the infant's neck to hide the birth from her parents. The infant was treated at Berwick Hospital and Geisinger Medical Center and was placed in protective custody. More....

WNEP-TV Video

Area Obituaries

Grace M. Truax, 101, of Harrison Valley, PA, formerly of North Fork, died Thursday, November 27, 2008 in the Hope Hospice, Bonita Springs, FL. Arrangements (1-800-942-2258) will be announced by the OLNEY Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA.

Robert A. Buck, 73, of Genesee, PA, died Thursday, November 27, 2008 in the Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport, PA. Arrangements (1-800-942-2258) will be announced by the OLNEY Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA.

PORT ALLEGANY, Pa. - Louise S. Catlin, 93, formerly of Mill St., died Tuesday (Nov. 25, 2008) in the Otterbein Retirement Community, Lebanon, Ohio.

Dr. Douglas F. Bowman, 62, Smethport, PA

Smethport –Dr. Douglas F. Bowman, 62, of Smethport, died Tuesday (November 25, 2008).

He was born Aug 23, 1946 in Chestertown, MD, a son of Franklin and Irene Mench Bowman. On August 14, 1971, in Lilly, PA, he married Barbara Klayko, who survives. He was a caring and loving husband and father.

Dr. Bowman was a 1964 graduate of Aberdeen High School, Aberdeen, Maryland and attended the University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, where he received his B.A. He received his B.S. from Washington College, Chestertown, Maryland, in 1976, and received his M.D. in 1978 from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland. From 1979 to the present, he continued his medical education through AMA and AAFP.

Prior to being a physician, Dr. Douglas Bowman was a high school teacher at the Kent County High School in Chestertown, Maryland. From 1978 to 1981, he was Lieutenant of the U.S. Public Health Service Corps. In 1979, he came to Smethport, as part of the public health service corps, and practiced medicine in Smethport for the last 29 years, previously with the Bowman Health Center, presently with Misty Valley Health Center. He also served as School Physician for the Smethport Area School District from 1985 to 2003. Over the years, he held many medical positions, the majority affiliated with the Charles Cole Memorial Hospital.

He was a member of the McKean County Medical Society, Pennsylvania Medical Society, American Medical Association, American Academy of Family Practitioners, and the American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians. He held past board member status in many local medical related organizations.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters: Rebecca (Scott) MacLeod of Greensboro, NC, Laura (Mark) Aimonetti of Anchorage, AL and one son: Adam Bowman of Chesilhurst, NJ

Visitation will be held on Friday, 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at St. Gabriel's Roman Catholic Church, Port Allegany, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am Saturday in St. Gabriel's Roman Catholic Church, Port Allegany, with the Rev. John Murphy, pastor, as celebrant, and the Reverends Vincent P. Cieslewicz and Charles Schmitt, as concelebrants.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Gabriel's Roman Catholic Church, Port Allegany, S.W. Smith Library, Port Allegany, or the Hamlin Memorial Library, Smethport.

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

Day After Bear Season

Picture taken right outside my back door this morning.
(The bird feeders still have an enemy)

- leo szczesny

Money Missing From Wallet In Roulette Death

WESB News: 11/27/08 - Police Looking for Dead Man's Money

State Police are investigating a theft of money from a man who died in Charles Cole Memorial Hospital on September 3rd.

Police say that when Mark Higley arrived at the hospital the $300 which was in his wallet was discovered missing. The money had been in Higley's wallet when investigators arrived on the scene.

findcorrie.com Website Set For Missing Mom

WESB News: 11/27/08 - Website Setup for Missing Woman

The family of Corrie Anderson is changing their strategy in the search for the missing 37 year-old and mother of three, who has been missing since October.

The family has set up a website called findcorrie.com, they hope people will log on and help in the search for Corrie. The family is asking all hunters to be on the lookout for anyone or anything suspicious.
Police have not commented on whether there are any people of interest.

Minor Injuries Reported In Kinney Road Crash

WESB News: 11/27/08 - Eldred Man in One Vehicle Accident

An Eldred man suffered minor injuries Tuesday afternoon in a one vehicle accident on Kinney Road in Genesee Township.

State Police say that a truck driven by 30 year-old Timothy Bittner went out of control on a curve, hit an embankment and then a culvert.

Bittner suffered minor injuries and was cited in the crash.

Northern Potter student raises funds for hospice

Sun Gazette

Felicia Houghtaling from Northern Potter High School felt driven to give back to Laurel Home Health/Hospice in Wellsboro for the excellent care they provided to two of her grandparents, deciding to raise money for the service as her senior project. More...

Area Obituaries

SMETHPORT — Dr. Douglas F. Bowman, 62, of Smethport, died Tuesday (Nov. 25, 2008). Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc., Smethport.

COUDERSPORT — Timothy B. Geffers, 49, of Coudersport, formerly of Wellsville, N.Y., passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday (Nov. 25, 2008) at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse. Tim's complete obituary was previously published here.

"We Want The Noise To Stop"

Portage Couple Awaiting Court Decision On Turbine Lawsuit
Carol Han
WJAC-TV

CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa -- While President-elect Barack Obama is looking to renewable energy to help get our economy back on track, our area is divided over whether that's a good idea.

Jill Stull from Portage says her life and farm have turned upside down ever since some unwelcome neighbors moved in 2006.

"We want the noise to stop. I want my husband to be able to sleep in our home," Stull said. More...

County Offices Closed Thursday, Friday

All Potter County offices are closed on Thursday and Friday in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. This includes the courthouse and related offices, the F. W. Gunzburger County Office Building, and the Potter County Human Services office in Roulette.

County offices will re-open at their regular time on Monday morning. We wish everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving weekend.

Getting Ready For Coudersport's Festival This Weekend

Astronomers On The Square For Festival

(left to right) Maxine Harrison, Director of the Cherry Springs Dark Sky Fund and Association, and astronomers Pam Karhan and Stash Nawrocki, with the Dark Sky tree they decorated for the upcoming Coudersport Festival of Lights.

The decorated tree is one of many to be found surrounding the Potter County Courthouse in downtown Coudersport.

To further their message on preserving the night sky through the use of wise lighting practices, two of the spotlights used to illuminate the large maple trees on the court house square, will be using "PAR" shields which narrow spotlight beams to focus on what they are intended to illuminate, and all of the spotlights will be turned off at a given time each night when traffic in town will be minimal.

PITT-BRADFORD’S STAFF ASSOCIATION TO HELP ELF FUND WITH ‘SHOEBOX DRIVE’

BRADFORD, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s Staff Association is helping out the ELF (Era’s Less Fortunate) Fund this year with a shoebox drive to provide needy children and senior citizens with a box of holiday cheer.

To take part, take a shoe box and fill it with new items for an infant up to 12 months old, a toddler (1-3 years), child 4 to 5 years old, 6 to 8 years old or 9 to 12 years old, teenager or for a senior citizen.

Items can include toys, school supplies, coloring books and crayons, personal care supplies, etc. Wrap the shoebox and label and return to the information desk in the Frame-Westerberg Commons by Dec. 5, 2008.

The public is invited to participate.

The idea came about when Karen Strotman, a member of the staff association’s events committee, saw the shoebox idea used to gather supplies as part of a national gift drive for children.

With applications to the ELF Fund up this year, the committee wanted to help families in the Bradford area.

“The ELF Fund was real responsive to the idea,” said Denise Perkins, another member of the committee. “It’s really limited only to where your imagination will take you.”

Perkins said that some ideas for boxes were to fill one with toiletries for a senior citizen or baby or create a theme such as movie night for teens or cars for a young boy.

For more information, contact Strotman at 362-7662 or klb1@pitt.edu or Perkins at 362-7630 or ddp7@pitt.edu.

Potter County Leads State With 256 Bears Killed

BEAR HUNTERS CONTINUE TO HAVE GREAT SUCCESS AFIELD

Bear exceeding 700 pounds taken in Monroe County on second day

HARRISBURG - Two days of bear hunting have produced a preliminary harvest of 2,518 bears, according to Pennsylvania Game Commission reports.

In 2007, 1,638 bears passed through check stations the first two days. In 2006, 2,185 bears were taken. In 2005, when the state record bear harvest was set, agency personnel processed 2,875 bears through the first two days of season; 2,262 in 2004; 2,299 in 2003; and 2,022 in 2002.

The top bear harvest county in the state after the first two days was Potter with 256 (87 in 2007), followed by Tioga, 205 (102); Lycoming, 195 (97); McKean, 126 (80); and Clearfield, 98 (70). More...

Sometimes You Get The Bear, Sometimes The Bear Gets You!!

Man mauled by bear
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
By Jeff Corcino Staff Writer
The Progress
A man was mauled by a bear yesterday afternoon while hunting in Lawrence Township, according to officials in the Lawrence Township Police Department.

The man suffered wounds to his head, neck and arms and was taken by private vehicle to Clearfield Hospital. More...

Christmas Concert, “Sing Joy!”

Choral Christmas Concert

The North Country Voices, a Coudersport based choral organization, will be presenting its annual Christmas Concert, “Sing Joy!”, on Sunday December 7 at 3PM at the Christian & Missionary Alliance Church, Route 49 in Coudersport .

The program will offer a diversity of choral literature, including the ever popular “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson, “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”, “Masters In This Hall” and other seasonal classics . There will an opportunity for audience members to join in singing the final verses of the closing Christmas songs. Featured soloists will include twelve year old Joel Doyle, singing “Suo-gan” and instrumentalist Kim Updegraff , playing the flute.

Members of the North Country Voices include:

Sopranos- Anne Acker, Barbara Busch, Roz Connor, Angela Kellert, Dee Krone, Gretchen Songster, Linda Swift, and Betty Wallace. Altos- Marcy Barnett, Julie Grossman, Debbie Haley, Jean-Marie Kauffman, Valerie Robbins, Linda Todd , Lucinda Weakland, Rosemary Wells, and Martha Young. Tenors- Brian Bradley, Tom Gordiner, and John Sherer. Basses- Don Busch, Bob Johnson, Jack Krone, and Byron McCleary . The piano accompanist is Anne McCleary and the choral director is Gloria Richardson.

Quoting from some ever popular Christmas lyrics, “let your heart be light,” and “Christmas is come, and no folk should be sad”. Come in out of the cold, lift your spirits and warm your hearts as we celebrate in song this joyous time of year.

Everyone is cordially invited to attend and light refreshments will be offered after the performance. There will be a free will offering and the proceeds will be used to support the efforts of the North Country Voices.

Austin Volunteer Fire Dept. Offers Scholarship/Award

Austin Volunteer Fire Dept. website
The Austin Vol. Fire Department, Ambulance, and Junior members have put together a scholarship award for a student at Austin Area School that is a current Jr. Member in the AVFD.

This award/scholarship is in memory of Mr. Nathan S. Setzer and Mr. Jason R. Glover who were both either family to members on the department, or really close friends to members on the department.

With the help of family, friends, and us here at AVFD we have put together a minimum award of two, two hundred and fifty dollars ($250) for two recipients who are current members of AVFD, and currently is running, or pursuing his or her EMT classification.

These indviduals will have to run calls when available just like our regular members, as well as complete twenty-five (25) additonal community service hours quarterly (Every 3 Months) outside of running emergency and non emergency calls. More....

Timothy B. Geffers, 49, Coudersport, PA, Formerly of Wellsville, NY

Coudersport, PA---Timothy B. Geffers, 49, of Coudersport, PA, formerly of Wellsville, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, Coudersport, PA.

Born May 15, 1959 in Wellsville, NY, he was a son of Donald T. and Grace J. Pero Geffers.

On July 7, 2007 at the Coudersport Gospel Tabernacle Church, he married Sallie J. Parker, who survives.

He was a graduate of Belmont High School in Belmont, NY. For 29 years, Mr. Geffers was employed by Giant Food Mart in Wellsville, NY. At the time of his death, he was the head of the Maintenance Department at the Coudersport Gospel Tabernacle Church.

He was a member of the Coudersport Gospel Tabernacle Church and a former member of the Yorks Corners Mennonite Church, Yorks Corners, NY.

He was a member and vice-president of the Twin Tier Christian Riders of the C.M.A. (Christian Motorcyclists Association). He loved to ride his motorcycle.

Surviving besides his wife are his parents of Belmont, NY; three children: Christina Geffers of Syracuse, NY, James (Tina) Geffers of Lockport, NY, and John Geffers of Wellsville, NY; one grandson; four brothers and sisters: Sharon (Dennis) Snyder of Westfield, PA, Mark Geffers of Northfield, Minnesota, Linda (Tom) Cook of Liverpool, NY, and Andy (Holly) Geffers of Foxboro, Massachusetts; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call on Friday, November 28, 2008 at the Coudersport Gospel Tabernacle Church, Route 6, Coudersport, PA from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at which time funeral services will be held in the church. The Rev. David J. Minor, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in the Eulalia Cemetery, Coudersport, PA.

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

Luzerne County To Lay Off 100 County Workers

Luzerne County Budget Means Job Cuts

WNEP-TV

Luzerne County commissioners have approved a new budget but it comes with a cost.

Commissioners approved the $130 million budget two to one. They managed to cut the budget by 11.5 percent. To do that, 100 county workers will lose their jobs.

The county still has to make up a multi-million shortfall in the budget.

Road OPENED North Of Eldred

ROAD IS OPEN---10:02 AM
State Route 446 North of Eldred is open. Fire Police had been dispatched to divert traffic from the road. A tractor-trailer was jackknifed across the road preventing drivers from getting through. The tractor-trailer has been removed.

2 Car Head-on Crash On Rt.417 East Of Bolivar

BREAKING NEWS:8:50am-11-26-08
Shinglehouse ambulance has been placed on standby at their hall about 9:00am this morning to cover for Bolivar.

Bolivar, Richburg, and Wellsville ambulances are responding to a two car head-on accident on Route 417, about 3 miles East of Bolivar. Three people are reported injured in this accident.

Paul S. Pansero, 78, Galeton, PA

PANSERO, Paul S.,78, of Galeton, PA, died on Monday, November 24, 2008, at his home.

Born March 26, 1930 in Galeton, PA, he was a son of the late Santo C. and Rose (Chiarolonza) Pansero.

Surviving is a niece, Lori Cannizzaro, East Aurora, NY.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 26, 2008, at 11 a.m. at St. Bibiana's Catholic Church in Galeton. The Rev. Joseph Dougherty will be the Celebrant.

Dr. Bowman Dead In Tractor Accident At His Home

WESB News: 11/26/08 - Smethport Man Dies in Plowing Accident

A Smethport man died Tuesday night when the tractor he was driving while snow plowing tipped off a bridge and into a small creek.

State Police say that the tractor driven by 61 year-old Dr. Douglas Bowman came to rest on top of him. Bowman was pronounced dead at the scene.

The accident happened on a private road off Pumphouse Road in Liberty township.

2 Car Crash Reported On Rt. 6 Past Lantz Corners

BREAKING NEWS:11:02pm-11-25-08
A two car accident on Route 6 on the Kane side of Lantz Corners has been reported. A paramedic on scene is reporting possible minor injuries. Emergency services have been dispatched.

Olean Town Wind Law Would Benefit All Residents

Board enacts wind-energy regulations

By John T. Eberth
Olean Times Herald

OLEAN - Fearing wind-energy developers will soon buy up land in its town, the Olean Town Board has adopted a local law that ensures wind-energy projects will benefit all town residents. More...

Accident Reported In Duke Center

BREAKING NEWS:7:25pm-11-25-08
Otto Township emergency services is responding to a one car accident on Main Street in Duke Center where a car is reported on its roof.

Accident Reported On Rt.446 Near Moody Hollow

BREAKING NEWS:7:20pm-11-25-08
Smethport emergency responders are responding to a vehicle accident on Rt.446 South of Moody Hollow. On scene report indicates a non-reportable. Car slid off the road.

Accident On Rt. 446 Near Slack Hollow--Eldred

BREAKING NEWS:6:40pm-11-25-08
Eldred area emergency services are responding to a vehicle accident on Rt. 446 near Slack Hollow in Eldred Township where a car is upside down in the ditch with reported entrapment. EMTs are on scene.

State Can't Pay DA's Salary But Rendell Buys Sod

Pa. taxpayers paying $1.3 million for ballpark field

State grant will fix drainage system, replace grass surface

By Phil Ray, pray@altoonamirror.com

The sod situation at the Blair County Ballpark hit a new low in mid-May when two games could not be played because of a wet infield.

It wasn't long afterward when Gov. Ed Rendell was at the ballpark for a game when it again started to rain. Altoona Curve President Chuck Greenberg took the opportunity to ask if there was state money available for a new playing surface, since the Pirates-affiliated franchise was experiencing problems with its decade-old turf.

The result was a $1.3 million grant, which Greenberg said State Sen. John H. Eichelberger Jr., R-Blair, and State Rep. Rick Geist, R-Altoona, worked with Rendell in the spring to secure.

The paperwork for the state grant still was being signed Friday morning as a bulldozer from Sports Construction Group LLC of Cleveland began plowing the field into a massive pile of grass to be carried away. More...

Golda V. Tubbs, 91, Ulysses, PA

Golda V. Tubbs, 91, of Ulysses, PA, died Monday, November 24, 2008 in her home.

Born August 21, 1917, in Portland Mills, PA, she was the daughter of Lawrence and Elva McCracken Hillyard.

On February 9, 1946, in Covington, PA, she married Winford B. Tubbs, who predeceased her in 1982.

A homemaker and lifelong area resident, she was a member of the West Pike Baptist Church.

Surviving are: two sons, Stanley J. (Barbara) Tubbs of Dover, PA and Dale R. Tubbs of Ulysses; five daughters, Mary (Lloyd) Prouty of Ulysses, Charlene (Jerry) Earle of Brookings, SD, Carolyn (Stanley) Prouty of Ulysses, Eloise Hughes of Charleston, WV, and Rose (Timothy) Foust of Coudersport, PA; 15 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by two sisters, Virginia Frost and Blanche Kshir; and a brother, Emerson Hillyard.

Funeral Services will be held 2:00 PM, Saturday, November 29, 2008 in the West Pike Baptist Church. The Rev. John Prouty will officiate. Burial will be in Ulysses Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the West Pike Baptist Church, c/o Carolyn Prouty, 3439 Loucks Mills Road, Ulysses, PA 16948.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA.

Commissioner Heimel Reports From Hershey

Local Governments Must Open Records

Terry Mutchler

On Jan. 1, local governments across Pennsylvania must comply with the state’s Right to Know Law/Open Records Rules, including the appointment of an Open Records Officer.

Responsibilities under the new law were detailed this week in Hershey when Terry Mutchler, executive director of the state’s new Office of Open Records, spoke to the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania.

The law changes the presumption and burden of proof on open records and includes an appeals process. Most local governments that currently have sound records access practices will need only to update existing policies and appoint the required officer, Mutchler said.

Her office oversees state and local practices, including establishment of guidelines, duplication fees (generally at no more than 25 cents per page), mediation and first-level appeals. Mutchler is a former journalist with Associated Press. Potter County Today

False Fire Alarm At Austin School

Fire alarm at Austin School was a false activation. Fire units from Austin and Coudersport have been recalled at 3:28 pm.

152 Bears Harvested In First Day In Potter County

WESB News: 11/25/08 - Potter County Leads 1st Day Bear Harvest

The top bear harvest in the state on the first day of the season was in Potter County with 152. The other top counties were Lycoming with 135; Tioga with 124; McKean with 95; and Clearfield and Huntington with 67.

Ray Barrick, of McAlisterville, harvested the largest bear – a male that weighed in at 691 pounds. It was taken in Huntingdon County, at 1 p.m.

The game commission says the top 10 bears processed at check stations on Monday all had estimated live weights that exceeded 580 pounds.

For more information on the first day of bear season, you can go to the 1490 News Blog.

Port Allegany Artist Shows Latest Oil Painting

Divinely Inspired Rendition Of Famous Painting

Photo by James Jones (c)2008

Ardelle Herzing, from Port Allegany, shows Pastor Lynn Geiser
her latest oil painting. The painting is Ardelle's own rendition of
Thomas Blackshear's famous painting "Forgiven." Ardelle says
the work is divinely inspired. It took her three weeks to paint.

PITT-BRADFORD INTERDISCIPLINARY ARTS MAJOR PRESENTS CAMPUS’S FIRST SENIOR EXHIBITION

Photo provided by Pitt-Bradford

BRADFORD, Pa. – “A.J.” Laganosky, a senior at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, will break new ground next week when he becomes the campus’s first interdisciplinary arts major to present a solo multimedia exhibition in the KOA Art Gallery in Blaisdell Hall.

Laganosky’s exhibition, “Battle of the Brutes,” will integrate the worlds of baseball and music through music and original compositions performed by Laganosky, computer graphics, multimedia and traditional art forms.

The exhibit will open with a live music performance at noon Monday, Dec. 1, in the gallery, followed by a reception at 12:20 p.m. in the KOA Speer Electronics Lobby that is free and open to the public. The exhibit will run through Dec. 5 and is part of the Pitt-Bradford Spectrum Series.

“Working on this exhibit has been a great learning experience for me,” Laganosky said. “Getting to work with Kong Ho, associate professor of art, and Dr. Lee Spear, associate professor of music, has been a great honor, and nothing is better than hearing them say ‘it looks/sounds great.’”

As part of his senior capstone requirements, Laganosky also had to write an artist’s statement about his work.

“My interests in baseball, music and art have influenced my life almost every year in one form or another,” he wrote. “‘Battle of the Brutes’ encompasses the struggle between baseball, music and art in my life.”

Laganosky hails from Carlisle, where he grew up playing music. He didn’t take his first art class until he was a sophomore at Pitt-Bradford. In addition to studying music and composition with Spear and art and design with Ho, Laganosky has studied ceramics with Dr. Martie Geiger Ho, visiting assistant professor of art, and Japanese art and basket weaving with Isabelle Champlin, assistant professor of anthropology.

In creating his exhibit, Laganosky used many multimedia computer programs, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign; IMovie, GarageBand, Finale Notepad and iDVD.

Ho, who is also director of the interdisciplinary arts program, said that Laganosky’s exhibition is the first senior capstone exhibition for the major, which was first offered in 2006. The interdisciplinary arts major requires students to complete 52 credits in three disciplines, art, music and theater.

“His multimedia exhibition truly integrates the areas of art and music and will set a good example for the future interdisciplinary arts students,” Ho said.

Spear said that, “A.J.’s project goes far beyond being interdisciplinary. He has developed artistic hybrids by integrating elements of his training. No one of our courses in music prepares a student to compose at the scope that AJ has accomplished. He has pulled together melodic and harmonic concepts, arranged them according to classical models, and used his music technology skills to turn them into an underscore for a video presentation of his project. This work sets a very high bar for future capstone projects. It is an ideal accomplishment.”

Potter Commissioner Reports From Conference

Preparing For Coming Gas ‘Boom’

(c) Solomon's Words

County officials from across the state are learning more about the implications of Marcellus shale natural gas exploration and development today as the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) convenes in Hershey.

Potter County Commissioner Paul Heimel is a member of the CCAP Natural Gas Task Force, which is meeting this morning to develop strategies counties can use to maximize the economic benefits of the coming gas boom while protecting water resources, roads and other community resources.

At 8:30, Tim Kelsey, professor of agricultural economics at Penn State, and Thomas Murphy, Cooperative Extension educator, will lead a workshop on the challenges and opportunities of Marcellus shale gas production, drawing parallels to a similar phenomenon involving deeply buried natural gas resources discovered in northern Texas.

Later this morning, representatives of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission and Pa. Dept. of Environmental Protection will discuss gas drilling regulations and potential environmental impacts of gas development.

Lake Effect Snow Warning For McKean, Cattaraugus

The National Weather Service in State College has issued a lake
effect snow warning... which is in effect from 3 PM this afternoon
to 1 am EST Thursday. The Winter Weather Advisory has been
cancelled. The lake effect snow watch is no longer in effect.

Lake effect snow bands will develop this afternoon as an upper
level disturbance slides across central Pennsylvania. Snow will
increase in intensity and coverage Tuesday evening and persist
through Wednesday evening. While only 1 to 2 inches of snow is
expected by early this evening... some of the snow will be on
the heavy side this afternoon. The bulk of the snow will fall
later tonight and early Wednesday. By Wednesday afternoon
snowfall totals of 6 to 9 inches are likely... with locally higher
amounts occurring across the highest elevations.

111 Bears Counted At Mt. Jewett Fire Hall Monday

WESB News: 11/25/08 - Bears Taken on Opening Day in Pa

Hunters had a good day Monday on the opening day of bear season in the commonwealth.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission says 111 bear were checked at the Mount Jewett Fire hall Monday.

The commission says they usually average 112 bruins for the three day season. 93 bears were taken in McKean County and a 529 pounder was shot in Sergeant Township..

Two Jailed For Burglary In Duke Center

WESB News: 11/25/08 - Two Arrested for Incident in Duke Center

Two men were arrested Saturday and charged with burglary and driving on the lawn at Otto Eldred High School.

Court records indicate that 18 year-old Glenn Crum of Duke Center and Seth Hamilton of Goshen, Indiana burglarized the former convenience store in Duke Center and went for a “joy ride” on Otto Eldred school property.

Hamilton and Crum are facing numerous charges and both were sent to the McKean County jail on $25,000 bail.

Former Bradford Mayor Dies

WESB News: 11/25/08 - Former Bfd Mayor Rossi Dies

Former Bradford mayor and councilman Mark Rossi passed away Saturday at BRMC. Rossi was 87. Rossi was a longtime banker, and head of the Bradford division of Pennbank.

He served one term as mayor of Bradford and 12 years as a city councilman. There will be no visitation or service.

Area Obituaries

Mark F. Rossi of 8 Louette Drive, a former Bradford City Councilman and mayor of Bradford, passed away Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008, at the Bradford Regional Medical Center. He was 87. Arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

RIXFORD — Nancy L. Milliron, 73, of Rixford, died Monday (Nov. 24, 2008) in the Hamot Medical Center, Erie, following a brief illness. Arrangements are under the direction of the Frame Funeral Home.

ELDRED — James R. Meiers, 88, of Eldred, died Wednesday (Nov. 19, 2008) at his winter residence in Weekiwachee North, Brooksville, Fla., following an apparent heart attack. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Frame Funeral Home.

MOUNT JEWETT — Joanne Auriemmo, 65, of 15 High St., died Sunday (Nov. 23, 2008) at her residence. Cummings Funeral Home Inc. is in charge of arrangements.

Tuesday Morning Accidents Reported

Morning accidents in the area include a non-reportable on Route 155 in Eldred Township and a crash into the guard rails just dispatched on Route 219 North of Tacks Inn. First responder on scene reported no one around the vehicle.

Bear Season Opens--WNEP-TV

Extensive Interior Damage In Pizza Hut Fire

Fire at Pizza Hut closes restaurant

By John T. Eberth
Olean Times Herald

OLEAN - An electrical fire damaged the interior of Pizza Hut at 610 N. Union St. in Olean, closing the popular downtown restaurant.

Firefighters said the damage could have been worse if it weren’t for Andy Hall, owner of A.C. Hall Landscaping.

Mr. Hall had just finished plowing the Pizza Hut driveway Sunday around 5:50 a.m. when he noticed thick black smoke coming from the restaurant. More...

Tack's Inn Hit In $1400 Burglary

WESB News: 11/25/08 - Money, Beer Taken From Tack's Inn

Money and possibly beer have been stolen from Tack's Inn.

Police say sometime between Sunday night and Monday morning someone entered the bar and stole about $1400. The person may have also taken cases of Coor's Light.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Kane-based state police.

Slippin' An' Slidin' Report

WESB News: 11/24/08 - Accidents All Over the Twin Tiers

Emergency crews have been called to several weather-related accidents in the Twin Tiers on I-86, Route 219, Rew Hill, Red Rock Hill, Jackson Avenue, the intersection of Jackson and Seaward avenues, Bolivar Drive, Minard Run Road.

Motorists are being advised to use caution.

Roads Treacherous--Many Accidents

Today's snow has made area roads treacherous. Multiple accidents, vehicles slid off the road, tractor-trailers stuck on hills, have been too numerous to report.

Anyone who doesn't need to travel should avoid getting on the roads tonight.

News From GerriMiller.com

Gerri Miller
Bringing news to the
twin tiers for 29 years
GerriMiller.com
Black Forest Broadcasting
Downstate Man Charged with DUI after Crash
DUI Charges are being filed against 43 year old Ronald Fero of East Pittsburgh following a one vehicle crash early Saturday morning on Route 146 in Sergeant Township, McKean County. Kane based state police say Fero was headed south and as he approached the intersection with the Clermon/Wilcox Road he tried to turn left to stay on 146 but did not slow down enough on the snow covered road and drove off the west side of the highway where his Chevy truck hit a tree and small shurbs. While investigating, troopers alleged determined he was drive under the influence of alcohol while traveling too fast for conditions. Fero was taken to Bradford regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries. His passenger Todd Sawicky of Monongahela, PA also suffered minor injuries.

Toxicology Test Results Pending in Teen’s Death
The investigation is continuing into the apparent accidental death late last week of 18 year old Douglas Reid of Ulysses. His body was found in his vehicle last Thursday afternoon in a wooded area off of Hillcrest Road in Bingham Township. Reid was pronounced dead at the scene by Potter County Coroner Kevin Duesenbury. In their news release, state police indicated they believe the death may have been caused by an accidental drug overdose but Coroner Dusenbury told Black Forest Broadcasting that the cause of death will not be known until the toxicology tests are completed which might be some 4-5 weeks.

The Game Commission is hoping that the snow cover over much of the state will aid bear hunters during the three-day statewide season which began earlier today. Weather impacted the opening day of last year’s traditional three-day November bear season, but hunters still took 2,360 bears by the time the state’s slate of bear seasons closed. The opening day is almost always the best day of any season, because hunter participation is generally the highest. The 2007 bear harvest compares with 3,122 in 2006, and 4,164 in 2005, the state’s best bear kill. Already in this decade, which still is not completed, hunters have taken more black bears than in any other decade since the Game Commission began keeping bear harvest records in 1915. . Hunters who harvest a bear during the three-day statewide (Nov. 24-26) or extended (Dec. 1-Dec. 6 or Dec. 3-6, depending on the WMU) bear seasons must take it to one of the Pennsylvania Game Commission's check stations within 24 hours. Check stations will be open from noon to 8 p.m. on Nov. 24 and 25; and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 26. After 6 p.m. on Nov. 26, hunters with bears to be checked should contact any of the Game Commission's region offices for assistance. Office telephone numbers are listed on page 3 of the 2008-09 Hunting and Trapping Digest, issued with hunting licenses.

Hunters this fall also have expanded opportunities with new or enlarged extended season areas in WMUs 4C, 4D, 4E, and WMU 2G which includes the area south of Route 6 in Potter and McKean Counties. More news....

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

Community Events From GerriMiller.com

November 25

Potter County Human Services, in conjunction with the 21^st Century grant is sponsoring one-night Parent Educational Workshops in area school districts. Presentations will be made this afternoon from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. at the Oswayo Valley Middle School Planning Room. The classes focus on reducing family conflict and communication strategies, educational issues such as absenteeism and assisting your child with homework and tips for good grades. Pre-registration is preferred. Call 544-7315 or 800-800-2560.

November 27 & 28

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation today said all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Thursday, Nov. 27, and Friday, Nov. 28, for the Thanksgiving holiday.Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services online through PennDOT’s driver and vehicle services Web site, www.dmv.state.pa.us. Driver and vehicle online services are available 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week and include driver’s license and photo ID renewals, vehicle registration renewal, driver history services, change of address