randy stuff - 2009 Red Raiders 2

Some shots from the 2009 Red Raider football season. Turn up
your speakers and enjoy

Merry Christmas...and THANK YOU

I just wanted to take a moment to thank our local PennDot, Emporium Borough, and Township road crews. As everyone knows, the roads were very slippery on Christmas day, and these guys gave up their precious time to go out and make the roads safer for all of us Christmas travelers. Things would be a lot tougher without these guys on the job!
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Mountain Lines by Nelson Haas

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Megans Law Violation

An Emporium man was jailed Friday for failing to register his employment within the Megan's Law requirements.Ralph Edward Bennett, 56, of 404 West Allegany Avenue, Apt. 2B, Emporium, PA, was charges with Failure To Comply with Registration of Sexual Offenders Requirements by Emporium State Police.Bennett was arraigned in District Court and committed to the Potter County Jail after he was unable to post bail.

Legislators object to 'sweetheart deal' for PMI

RIDGWAY - Local legislators are speaking out about a "sweetheart deal" the North Central Regional Planning and Development Commission is proposing to offer PMI to lease its ITEC training center.A meeting was held at state Sen. and Lt. Gov. Joe Scarnati's office in December with North Central board Chairman and Jefferson County Commissioner Paul Corbin and Executive Director Eric Bridges. All the state House members in the six-county area - Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, Cameron, McKean and Potter - were invited, and Reps. Martin Causer, Sam Smith and Matt Gabler attended."The issue at hand was that North Central has been moving forward with a plan to broker with PMI to go into a lease agreement with them in their ITEC building for a technical training school," Scarnati said Thursday. "After about a year and a half of my requesting the financials" and other information, "sometime back in July, I finally received what they deemed the financial plan. I just finally had a meeting with the executive director and several things troubled me in the whole process.".............MORE
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Mountain Lines by Nelson Haas

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Governor Rendell Announces $24.5 Million Rail Investment in 31 Counties

HARRISBURG, Pa., Dec. 11 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Thirty-nine freight rail companies and users can make upgrades and expand capacity with a $24.5 million state investment from PennDOT's Rail Freight Capital Budget/Transportation Assistance and Rail Freight Assistance Programs, Governor Edward G. Rendell announced today.
"Upgrading and expanding our freight rail lines helps maintain service and also opens the door to greater business opportunities," Governor Rendell said. "These investments will help meet growing demand for freight rail service and also help ease highway congestion by reducing the number of trucks on our roadways."
The state will invest $15 million from the capital budget program and an additional $9.5 million from the Rail Freight Assistance Program.
The capital budget program is funded through state capital bond dollars repaid through General Fund revenues. The Rail Freight Assistance Program is provided through the state's General Fund. The grants, which are authorized by the General Assembly, are administered by PennDOT's Bureau of Rail Freight.
For more information, visit www.dot.state.pa.us or call (717) 783-8800.

Cameron, Luzerne, McKean, Tioga counties: D & I Silica -- $700,000 to construct two new transloading facilities and improve the functionality of two existing facilities for transloading of silica sand from rail cars to trucks for local gas-well production......MORE

local pizzeria conducts OFFICIAL PIZZA business in china

David Smith of Smith's Pizza Palace Plus returns from food show in Shanghai .
Oxford, Miss. (December 4, 2009) - David Smith II, owner of Smith's Pizza Palace Plus (pizzapalaceplus.com) in Emporium, Pennsylvania, just returned from participating in the PMQ Pizza Pavilion at the FHC Food Show (fhcchina.com), home to China's first National Pizza Championship in Shanghai. PMQ China sponsored the Pizza Pavilion in order to bring recognition to pizza related products while building information bridges between China and the rest of the world. Joining Smith was Steve Green, publisher of PMQ Pizza Magazine, and Stephen Millar, senior consultant in the industry from Australia.
While at the FHC Food Show, Smith exhibited his dough-making and tossing skills, acted as lead judge for the Chinese culinary pizza and acrobatic contests, and delighted the crowds with his Cajun pizza.
Green says, "As a member of the United States Pizza Team, Dave was the ideal candidate to perform dough-making demonstrations and showcase his dough tossing skills."
Smith was able to tour Shanghai when he was not working the PMQ Pizza Pavilion. Once home, several employees and customers asked Smith about his trip. "That's a hard question to answer," says Smith, "I had a fantastic time even though talking to my family in Emporium was a little hard. There is a 13-hour time difference between Shanghai and Pennsylvania so they were often asleep when I was awake and vice-versa."
The city of Shanghai houses over 20 million people and is the largest city in China. Smith tells others how incredible traffic can be in a city that size. "For starters, the traffic in China would push a New York taxi driver's skills to the breaking point. You have so many pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooters competing for the right of way, horns sounding almost nonstop, and red lights frequently ignored. I had to admire how close an automobile could squeeze between two other autos. I searched for crumpled bumpers and fenders, but was surprised when I couldn't find any."
Of course, to someone in the restaurant industry the most important thing about visiting a new area is the food. It took a few days, but Smith finally learned how to use chopsticks. With those chopsticks, Smith ate some exotic food. "I had never had frog legs before, but once I got over the sight, I had to laugh when they actually did taste like chicken. We also got to eat the hoofs and spine of a goat. Sounds gross, but the food was really good. For the taste of home, we once ate breakfast at a McDonald's," recalled Smith.
Smith will not be bringing food quite that exotic to Smith's Pizza Palace Plus, but he is working on learning how to make the hand stretched noodles he enjoyed at a small restaurant in Shanghai and experimenting with forming the extra dough on top of calzones into shapes like dragons and crabs like the FHC featured chef, Francesco Sanna.
For interview requests, contact Dave Smith directly at (814) 486-1819 or mhtml:%7B318F3060-5205-4465-85E5-448061B5521C%7Dmid://00000065/!x-usc:mailto:pizzapalace@zitomedia.net. For more information about the U.S. Pizza Team, visit USPizzaTeam.com.

About PMQ Pizza Magazine
In publication for 12 years, PMQ Pizza Magazine reaches 40,000 owner/operators of America's 70,000 pizzerias. In the 36 billion dollar pizza industry, PMQ is the business monthly with the busiest website, hosting 5,000 Web visitors each day at www.pmq.com, and 10,000 newsletter subscribers each week. PMQ Pizza Magazine also has publications in China and Australia.

Pennsylvania Wilds Tourism Appoints BCA Marketing Communications

BROOKVILLE, Pa., Dec. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- The PA Wilds Tourism Marketing Corp., a tourism coalition of twelve counties in North-Central Pennsylvania, has hired top tourism marketing agency BCA to create an innovative strategy for promoting the vast visitor experiences available in this sizable region of over two million acres.
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091210/NY23925LOGO )
The scope of BCA's assignment, which is across creative and media, includes social media and the development of an online marketing strategy to build traffic to the tourism authority's website..
Dave Morris, PA Wilds president, said: "The appointment of BCA is the next stage in the young life of this growing tourism region. BCA's tourism experience will be a big asset in the selling of one of the country's finest outdoor adventure recreation areas."
Jim Cronin, agency president, said: "BCA is thrilled to land the opportunity to promote the PA Wilds. We look forward to launching a comprehensive plan that will introduce potential visitors to the destination's unknown wonders and countless retreats from the daily grind."
PENNSYLVANIA WILDS TOURISM MARKETING CORPORATIONThe Pennsylvania Wilds Tourism Marketing Corporation was created in 2003 to promote the growth of tourism and related-businesses in the 12-counties located in north central Pennsylvania. The corporation is comprised of eight Tourist Promotion Agencies (TPAs) responsible for marketing the Pennsylvania Wilds and their respective regions. The Pennsylvania Wilds Tourism Marketing Corporation was established through a regional marketing grant from the Pennsylvania Tourism Office. The primary goal of the Pennsylvania Wilds Tourism Marketing Corporation is to establish a strong coalition of public and private partners with the goal of branding the Pennsylvania Wilds as the premier destination for outdoor experiences in the eastern United States. http://www.pawilds.com
BCA MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS INC.BCA is a New York-based marketing communications firm established in 1984. The agency offers creative, media and interactive services to clients primarily in the tourism (including South African Airways, Half Moon resort, bmi, Fitzpatrick Hotel Group) and b-t-b (including IDA Ireland) marketplaces. http://www.bcany.com
Contact:
Erin Leitten
Graphic Designer
BCA Marketing Communications
50 East 42nd St., Suite 702
New York, NY 10017
P: 212.286.9300
F: 212.286.9736
bca.travel

Christmas funny

I received this in my e-mail today.





THE GREATEST CHRISTMAS DECORATION EVER!

"Good news is that I truly out did myself this year with my Christmas decorations. The bad news is that I had to take him down after 2 days. I had more people come screaming up to my house than ever.

Great stories. But two things made me take it down. First, the cops advised me that it would cause traffic accidents as they almost wrecked when they drove by. Second, a 55 year old lady grabbed the 75 pound ladder almost killed herself putting it against my house and didn't realize it was fake until she climbed to the top (she was not happy). By the way, she was one of many people who attempted to do that. My yard couldn't take it either. I have more than a few tire tracks where people literally drove up my yard."

MERRY CHRISTMAS

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Local Girls compete at Johnstown

The Donachy Gymnatics girls team recently competed at the TNT Gymnastics in Johnstown. The girls did an amazing job for their first competition. Emporium girls competing on the team were Kacie Aversa and Cassie Frey. Kacie, a level 5 gymnast, placed 3rd in the all around as well as 3rd on the vault in the 11-13 age group.
Team members front row: Olivia Kinney, Angelina Steffan, Madelyn Kinney
back row, Coach Micki Steffan, Brianna Blankenship, Morgan Lorenzo, Cassie Frey, Jenna Minard, Mackenzie Kinney, Shyanne Blankenship, Lindsey Meyer, Kacie Aversa, and Coach Toni Williamson

Top bear areas show not necessarily biggest producers

We all have our favorite place to hunt and fish. For some it is because of an abundance of game. For others it may be a place of convenience or nostalgia.
None of the various reasons are wrong and a case can be made for each. With all of that in mind three of us sat in Orndoff's Sporting Goods Store in Graysville discussing the merits of various bear hunting hot spots.
Looking at the harvest figures compiled by the Pennsylvania Game Commission gives one an idea of what place is best. But taking things a step further helps a bit....................................
................................

I haven't mentioned the Eastern counties for they have longer bear seasons than we do here in the west. Also note I didn't forget Cameron County, which is the heart of bear country.
The reason I left it out until now is that it comes out way on top of the list with its kill of 217 bears. While that doesn't top the state in total numbers one has to remember it is a small county and its harvest comes out to one bear for every 1.9 square miles of land. Compared to the other counties, it is far and away the best and the numbers show this to be true.
If I could identify the townships in each county the bear harvest could be pinned down a bit more. If I were a betting man I would bet, for example, that many of Elk County's bears were taken near Benezette or near the border of Cameron County.
Again, I would bet if one placed a point at Emporium and drew a circle of say 20 miles around the town you would encircle the state's best bear country. ........................
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New Head For Hardwood Mills

New Head For Hardwood Mills:Private equity firm H.I.G. Capital, Miami, Fl., has partnered with management to acquire Rossi American Hardwoods, Cromwell, Ct., and Hardwood Lumber Manufacturing, Charlotte,
N.C.H.I.G. has formed American Hardwood Industries Inc., Cromwell, Ct., to parent the two vertically integrated suppliers.Rossi American consists of milling complexes Blue Triangle Hardwoods, Everett, Pa.; Scotland Hardwoods, Scotland, Ct.; Graham Lumber Co., West Linden, Tn., and Emory River, Oak Ridge, Tn.; sales offices Cross Creek Sales, Augusta, Ga., and Legacy Lumber, Erie, Pa., and dry kilns in Shelby, N.C., and Edgefield and Saluda, S.C. The company is led by Ted Rossi, who will serve as chairman and c.e.o. of AHI.Hardwood Lumber Manufacturing, including offices in Charlotte and mills Emporium Hardwoods, Emporium, Pa., and Northern Hardwoods, South Range, Mi., is headed by David Marshall, who will be president and c.o.o. of AHI.GÇ£We are very excited about partnering with one of the top management teams in the sector,GÇ¥ said H.I.G. managing director Brian Schwartz. GÇ£Rossi American Hardwoods has developed a reputation as a top quality supplier in international markets. HLM offers a sophisticated, metrics-oriented and disciplined management approach that is unique in the industry.GÇ¥H.I.G. first invested in the forest products sector 11 months ago with Augusta Lumber, Waynesboro, Va.
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Mountain Lines by Nelson Haas

You can see this, and many more, artwork HERE

1 dead, 1 shot in dispute over bear hunting

SUMMERVILLE — Police say a landowner was shot and killed and a member of a bear hunting party wounded after an argument over trespassing in rural northern Pennsylvania.
State Trooper Bruce Morris said Tuesday that investigators are trying to sort out who fired first and other details related to the confrontation that broke out around 11 a.m.
The scene of the shooting is Summerville, about 60 miles northeast of Pittsburgh.
Morris says a co-owner of the property, 63-year-old Frank Shaffer of Red Lion, is dead from a gunshot wound.
The injured man is identified as 23-year-old Paul Plyler of Summerville, a member of the hunting party. He was taken to a Pittsburgh hospital but Morris says his wounds aren’t considered life-threatening.
Morris says he expects charges to be filed in the case.Read more: http://www.centredaily.com/news/breaking_news/story/1643905.html#ixzz0Xp5bJF80
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Mountain Lines by Nelson Haas

Click on the image to see it full screen

Marcellus shale drilling is biggest threat to Pennsylvania wilds

By Patriot-News Op-Ed
November 14, 2009, 8:00AM
by Robert Pennell
They call it the “Pennsylvania Wilds,” more than 6 million acres of relatively unspoiled forests and mountains in 12 northern Pennsylvania counties. Logo for the Pennsylvania WildsThe area has long been known for its remnants of virgin forests, pristine mountain streams, abundant wildlife and magnificent vistas. More than 2 million of those acres are public land, an area equivalent to the acreage occupied by Yellowstone National Park.
Today, however, if you were to visit this part of our commonwealth, you would be greeted by a different environment. You would find a proliferation of new roads being cut into the forests, with semis and tanker trucks hauling tons of heavy equipment and water to remote destinations.
Not since the heyday of heavy timbering has there been such an assault on our northern forests.
This is all about the natural gas being extracted from a widespread geological formation known as Marcellus Shale. .......................
"This year, DEP made the decision to dismiss the county conservation districts as the watchdogs over local construction activities, and then instituted a fast-track permitting rule whereby construction plans would no longer be subjected to scrutiny by DEP, as long as the plans are certified by a registered engineer. " .............read MORE
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Malarie Campbell to set sail on historic Navy vessel

By JOELLEN CHESNUT
Era Reporterjoellen@bradfordera.com
An Emporium native and servicewoman in the United States Navy has

a unique experience with her next duty station — the honor of being

among the first crew to serve on the warship built as a tribute to those

who survived the attacks on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.

Malarie Campbell, the daughter of Annette and the late Mark Campbell

of Emporium and a 2005 graduate of Cameron County High School, is a

medical technician on the USS New York. The USS New York, which

contains seven-and-a-half tons of steel salvaged from Ground Zero

of the World Trade Center, was commissioned Nov. 7 at the Intrepid

Museum Pier in New York City. More...
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GE Transportation workers won't be eligible for trade assistance

Those laid off won't get money
By JIM MARTIN
jim.martin@timesnews.com
Federal Trade Adjustment Assistance helped soften the blow for many of the 700-plus local International Paper Co. workers who lost their jobs in 2002.

Early indications suggest, however, that those government benefits won't be available to 1,480 GE Transportation workers expected to lose their jobs in November as part of one of the biggest layoffs in recent memory.
TAA, available to workers who lose their jobs because of foreign competition, extends unemployment benefits and provides money for retraining and relocation. The program has been used locally by workers from Bush Industries, Van de Kamp's, Steris Corp., American Meter, EMI, and Owens-Illinois Closure, among others.
Stephan Koller, a spokesman for GE Transportation, said the U.S. Department of Labor approached the company to collect information for the TAA application....READ MORE
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Causer Hosting Town Meetings

Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) is inviting area residents to two upcoming town hall meetings in Emporium and Smethport.
The Emporium Town Hall Meeting will be held on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 5:30 p.m. at the Emporium Fire Hall, 418 North Broad Street.
The Smethport Town Hall Meeting will be held on Thursday, Nov. 19, at 5:30 p.m. at the McKean County 911 Building, 17175 Route 6."Town hall meetings are a great way to share information about what's happening in Harrisburg and learn more about how that is impacting the people in Cameron, Potter and McKean counties," Causer said. "While I get constant feedback from people stopping by or calling the office, through e-mail, and at various community events, I always appreciate the conversation generated at town hall meetings."Causer said the meetings are open to anyone in the 67th Legislative District, and no reservations are necessary.People who cannot attend one of the town hall meetings may want to mark their calendars for Thursday, Dec. 10, when Causer will host an open house at his new Coudersport Office location, 107 S. Main St., Room 1. The open house is scheduled for 3-6 p.m.For additional information, visit RepCauser.com or contact Causer's offices in Bradford at 814-362-4400, or in Coudersport at 814-274-9769. The toll-free number is 1-866-437-8181.

Fenelton, PA Man Caught After Hit & Run Crash That Injured Two Pedestrians In Sinnemahoning

A Fenelton, PA man was apprehended by troopers on Interstate 80 after striking 2 pedestrians, the front door of a Sinnemahoning Restaurant, and two parked vehicles in the parking lot, before fleeing the scene on Saturday at 5:30 PM.
The restaurant is located along Route 12o in Grove Township, Cameron County.Darin Robert Shay, 39, of 106 Irwin Road, Fenelton, PA, drove a 2001 Ford Focus onto the sidewalk of the Willows Restaurant and Bar, striking Adam Motchenbaugh, 27, of Noddingham, MD and Joel Papcunik, 26, of Mineral Point, PA, who were standing on the sidewalk. Both men suffered minor injuries and were transported to Elk Regional Medical Center for treatment by Sinnemahoning ambulance.
Shay then continued along the sidewalk and struck a 2009 Ford F-150 owned by John Zimath of Coatesville, PA, which was parked in the parking lot, the front door of the Willows Restaurant, and a 2007 Chevrolet Silverado owned by David Sheaffer of Ford City, PA, also parked in the parking lot. The vehicles sustained minor damages.Shay then fled the scene on Route 120. He was subsequently located on Interstate 80 traveling to his residence. Fenelton is located between Butler and Kittaning.He faces charges in District Court of: Accidents Involving Death or Personal Injury (M1); Accidents Involving Damage to Unattended Property (M3); Reckless Driving; Careless Driving; Accidents Involving Damage to Unattended Vehicle (S); and Failure to Notify Police.
Emporium troopers were assisted by Sinnemahoning Ambulance, Emporium Ambulance, and PSP Ridgway.

Bill Moscato (right)celebrated his retirement from GE Transportation/ Motor Coils last week. Bill worked there for 31 years. IUE-CWA Local 88607 President Harry Mansfield presented Bill with a watch acknowledging his years of service to the company and the union.

Click on the umage to see it, and more of Nelson's work, in full size

Governor Rendell Appoints PA Wilds Adviser to Serve as Liaison to Council on

Dan Surra to Continue Advising DCNR Secretary on PA Wilds Issues
HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --
Governor Edward G. Rendell announced today that he has named Dan Surra to serve as his primarysportsmen's adviser and to lead the Governor's Council on Fishing, Hunting and Conservation.
In January, Surra joined DCNR as a senior adviser on the Pennsylvania Wilds.He will continue to serve in that role, but expand his responsibilities toinclude fishing, hunting and conservation issues."The nature of Dan's current role and his love of hunting and the outdoorsmake this appointment a natural fit," said Governor Rendell. "Hunting andfishing are an important part of life for millions of Pennsylvanians and,oftentimes, are treasured pastimes and traditions shared by multiplegenerations in a family. These sportsmen are also fantastic stewards of ournatural resources because they understand how precious our environment is."The sports also represent big business for communities across the state,particularly in the northern tier and PA Wilds region. Each year, hunting andfishing activities bring in billions of dollars to rural areas--not just fromPennsylvania residents, but from sportsmen visiting from out-of-state.
"Having someone like Dan, with his qualifications and interests, serve in thisrole and maintain a positive working relationship and dialogue with thissegment of our population is good news that offers promising continuedopportunities for this important segment of our economy and will help ensureeveryone is working together to preserve our God-given natural resources."Born and raised in Pennsylvania's northern tier, Surra is a lifelongoutdoorsman and possesses an intimate knowledge of state regulations andeconomic development. His efforts during 18 years in the General Assemblyhelped shape the PA Wilds initiative starting with the early promotion of elkwatching in the region. As a senior adviser to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resourcessecretary, Surra works with hunting and fishing organizations towards thestewardship and conservation goals embodied in the PA Wilds initiative andassists DCNR in addressing the balance between growing the region as a naturetourism destination and developing Marcellus Shale natural gas resources.In his additional role as an adviser to the Governor on fishing, hunting andconservation matters, Surra will oversee matters affecting sportsmen and themanagement of Pennsylvania's natural resources by state agencies. The adviseracts as the state government's advocate for sportsmen and develops andimplements, with the Governor's approval, policies and programs to supportthis mission. As a liaison between the Sportsmen's Advisory Council and theGovernor, Surra will convey council recommendations to Governor Rendell. All agencies under the Governor's jurisdiction cooperate with the council andprovide staff assistance and information as needed to carry out itsresponsibilities effectively. The council is administered under the Departmentof Conservation of Natural Resources."It's a real honor for me to be able to serve Governor Rendell and thesportsmen and women of Pennsylvania in this role, which is certainly importantto me personally as a lifelong outdoorsman, and to the Pennsylvania Wildsregion that I currently serve," Surra said. "I think these responsibilitieswill blend nicely with my focus on growing the Pennsylvania Wilds as a naturetourism destination."Surra will take on the expanded role under his current salary. The positionwas previously held by Robert Miller Jr., who resigned on Friday, Oct. 23.For more information on the PA Wilds initiative, visit www.pawilds.com.Media contacts: Gary Tuma, 717-783-1116SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the GovernorGary Tuma of Pennsylvania Office of the Governor, +1-717-783-1116

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Retirement

Dale Griffith (left) retired after 30 years of employment with Motor Coils Manufacturing. IUE-CWA Local 88607 President Harry Mansfield (right) presented Dale with a watch commemorating his years of service to MCM and the union. Dale was employed as an electrician, and also served as a union officer in the past. Dale plans to relax and spend time with his grandchildren

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PA Milk Prices Going Up

The Pennsylvania Milk Marketing Board is temporarily raising the minimum price of milk across the state to help struggling dairy farmers.That means that from November 1 through December 31 consumers will pay about 4 cents more a gallon for milk.Farmers get an extra 50 cents, or $2.65 per 100 pounds of milk (11.6 gallons).“Farmers have been struggling with lower than expected prices for the milk they produce. By increasing the premium, the PMMB recognized that quick action needed to be taken to account for the extended period of low milk prices,” said Pennsylvania Farm Bureau President Carl T. Shaffer.Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.
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Red Raiders clinch AML North Title

The Cameron County Red Raiders won their third consecutive AML North tile today, with a 14-7 win over the Port Allegany Gators. Read the game recap at CC Sportscenter with BlutoPSU

game photos posted at http://camconative.dotphoto.com

October snow!

Several inches of the wet sticky stuff fell in the Emporium area Thursday night. Fallen branches and heavy power lines left Emporium without power for several hours on Friday, prompting the closure of many businesses and factories. Forecast is for more snow into Saturday, but warming temps beginning next week.

The early snow created a very scenic view, mixed with the colorful Autumn foliage, but most of us can wait a bit longer for snow and would rather enjoy a nice Indian summer!

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“Unstoppable” scene heats up Emporium

By Amy Cherry
St. Marys Daily Press
The much talked about “Unstoppable” train action movie, currently being filmed throughout Cameron County, recently had one of its biggest production days during a scene involving a massive explosion.Crowds gathered throughout the day in anticipation of catching a glimpse of the live scene involving a train passing by two overturned rail cars, all the while two helicopters hovered above the scene.The scene was filmed off of state Route 120, next to the Rite Aid Pharmacy and Portage Street. More with photo....
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On the move

The eerie sound of a bull elk’s bugle echoes up a forested hollow in Cameron County. Another bull answers from a distance.

It’s breeding season — that time of year when bull elk gather their harems close and attempt to ward off challenging males. Bugling and posturing
resolve many of the confrontations, but others are only settled after a clashing of antlers.
The elk are putting on a show with the backdrop of autumn’s splendor. This does not go unnoticed by tourists who flock to Pennsylvania’s elk range — including all of Cameron County and surrounding portions of Elk, Clearfield, Potter, Clinton and Centre counties.
According to Pennsylvania Game Commission estimates, between 700 and 800 wild elk are currently living in northcentral Pennsylvania. It is the Read more: http://www.centredaily.com/sports/story/1559643.html#ixzz0TggrhIZ7
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Elk Foundation members to start new group

Pennsylvania's biggest fans of elk are moving on.
Many of the people who previously worked as volunteers for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and even the organization's paid front-man in the state, have left the group, angry and frustrated with the organization's decision to pull out of its commitment to the Elk Country Visitor Center.
They're now creating a new organization — expected to be named in a few weeks — to run the center for years to come.
"The important thing is we're still going to have an elk center," said Rawley Cogan, who was the Elk Foundation's land programs manager in Pennsylvania until submitting his resignation over the pullout. He's now working as the project manager overseeing completion of the center.
"It's still going to be here in Elk County. It's still going to do the things we said it was going to do in terms of educating the public about conservation. It's still going to do what we said it would do for economic development. It's just not going to be the Elk Foundation there greeting people."
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GE Transportation employees line up to take early retirement

By JIM MARTIN
jim.martin@timesnews.com
Hundreds of layoffs at GE Transportation might be avoided as the company's older and more experienced employees line up for early retirement.


More than 500 out of about 750 eligible employees have filed paperwork to be considered for the company's special retirement program, said Shaun Francis, the company's senior executive for human resources.
This is just what the company and its main union were hoping would happen when GE Transportation announced Sept. 15 that it will lay off 1,480 employees by the end of November.
Jim Pifer, president of Local 506 of the United Electrical Radio and Machine Workers of America, said at the time he was hopeful that hundreds would elect to take early retirement, effectively sparing noneligible employees from losing their jobs.
........read more
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Sizerville AutumnFest a Success

Despite a bit of wet weather, thousands turned out for the annual AutumnFest at Sizerville Park today. There were lots of rustic crafts, pumpkin painting, lots of great food, and some great music.

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Emporium Fire victim wants to counsel children hospitalized with burns

Freshman at Kutztown University wants to counsel children hospitalized with burns
Francisco Betancourt was badly burned in a fire in his family's apartment when he was 3 that also killed his younger brother.
By Greta Cuyler
Reading Eagle
Francisco Betancourt doesn't recall accidentally setting his family's apartment on fire when he was 3 years old.And he doesn't remember his 2-year-old brother Alonzo, who died of smoke inhalation less than 24 hours later.But the Kutztown University freshman can't forget the stares and comments from those who see the burns and skin grafts that run the length of his arms and upper back.Since the fire in 1994, Francisco has undergone at least 15 surgeries. His skin in discolored and uneven in places. He's self-conscious and says he rarely takes his shirt off in public.But the 18-year-old from Enola, Cumberland County, isn't shy about his future plans. He chose Kutztown University for its undergraduate clinical counseling psychology program.Francisco hopes to someday counsel children hospitalized with burns and their families. A typical hospital stay for a skin-graft surgery can last two weeks, he said."I think it's important to have people (on staff) who have suffered," Francisco said. "People who have suffered through it will be more likely to share tears with you."I want to do it, but it feels like maybe I also need to do it."Growing up, Francisco's mother emphasized the importance of a good education. And Francisco followed her advice: pick a school that feels like home. A graduate of Trinity High School in Camp Hill, Francisco already has a jump start on his career goal.He's a counselor-in-training at a camp for child burn victims, which he has attended since he was 5. He's also trained to counsel child burn victims at Shriners Hospital for Children in Cincinnati, where he received free surgery and treatment for years.Francisco believes everything happens for a reason. "Once I thought about it, I thought maybe that's why the accident happened," he said. "If I would not have been burned, I would not be as emotionally grounded as I am or as spiritually open."Francisco has heard varying accounts of what happened in his family's apartment in Emporium, Cameron County, on Jan. 18, 1994.......READ MORE
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“Unstoppable” to go out with a bang

By PATRICK CONNOLLYEra Reporter
p.connolly@bradfordera.com
In typical Hollywood fashion, crews of the movie “Unstoppable,” who are wrapping up filming in the local area over the next couple of weeks, plan to go out with a bang.A source who requested anonymity, but who recently met with film officials, said there will be a wreck and an explosion in Emporium sometime after 7 a.m. either Saturday or Sunday. More...
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A very timely work by Mr. Nelson Haas. Click on the image to see it in full size

Road Delays for the filming of "Unstoppable".

Our safety committee developed the attached News Release --- regarding Road Delays for the filming of "Unstoppable".
Please NOTE --- there are NO long term road closures and NO re-routing of traffic --- they anticipate the longest delay to be approx 15 minutes
Thank you,Stretch
NEWS RELEASE:
ROAD DELAYSFriday October 2nd – 7:30 am until 12:00pm Noon – Route 120 & Portage Street –Expect Minor Delays - NO Re- routing will take place but roads will be closed periodically.12:00 pm Noon until Dusk – Route 120 Cameron Area – Traffic will be slowed to one lane.
Expect minor DelaysSaturday October 3rd & Sunday October 4th – Rain Date. No road closings Scheduled.
Monday October 5th & Wednesday October 7th – 7:00 am to Dusk - Route 120 & Portage Street – Expect Minor Delays - NO Re- routing will take place but road will be closed periodically.
Expect minor delaysTuesday October 6th – Film Crews will be in the Cameron County Area Filmingno road closings are scheduled at this time.Please use caution and restraint in these areas. Also this schedule is subject to chance without notice.
Safety Committee:
Cameron County Commissioners
Emporium Borough
Emporium Volunteer Fire Department
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Locomotive production to plummet in 2010, GE says

Next year will be a bleak one for freight locomotive builders, according to GE Transportation.The company expects locomotive production at its Erie, Pa., manufacturing plant to drop about 44 percent this year to 485 units, then fall another 50 percent or more in 2010 as the builder primarily works off its order backlog, GE Transportation officials recently told Dow Jones Newswire."There are no [U.S.] customers who are actively purchasing right now," said GE Transportation President and Chief Executive Officer Lorenzo Simonelli. "North America, from the standpoint of purchasing locomotives, is not moving."Several Class Is have begun to bring stored locomotives back into service. Although that’s a positive trend, it won’t impact new orders until no locomotives are in storage, said Simonelli.In addition, freight volumes “going from negative 20 percent to negative 16 percent don't do much for a manufacturer," he said. Despite the near-term economic environment, GE Transportation is optimistic about the long-term transportation sector and rail industry because of global transportation infrastructure needs and rail’s standing as one of the most fuel-efficient modes, said Simonelli.
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Pizza Palace Dave competes in Orlando!

By Sara Eddy OkerlundOlean Times Herald
Dave Smith, owner of Pizza Palace Plus in Emporium, Pa., competes in the dough-stretching competition in a pizza show held recently in Orlando, Fla. Photo submitted

More News
This guy knows how to stretch his dough
EMPORIUM, Pa. - Yes, the United States has a pizza team - and one area resident is a member of it.David Smith, who with his wife Marlene has co-owned the Pizza Palace Plus restaurant in Emporium since August 2001, has actually been a member of the team since 2007 when his cajun chicken pizza was tagged best in the nation.
Mr. Smith once again traveled to the Orlando (Fla.) Pizza Show where the U.S. Pizza Team recently held its tryouts, and bolstered his standing among the best of the nation’s pizza industry. For this year’s culinary contest Mr. Smith submitted a stuffed-mushroom pizza, which was judged to be the ninth best pie this time.Mr. Smith reasoned, “The judges were looking for thin crust and simplicity, and mine was a thicker crust loaded with toppings.
.........MORE
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Red Raiders down Brockway 28-20

BROCKWAY – Two fourth-quarter touchdowns, including a go-ahead 27-yard run by quarterback Jason Blose with 3:40 left in regulation gave the Cameron County Red Raiders a come-from-behind 28-20 win over the Brockway Rovers Friday night.
The Red Raiders (3-0) intercepted Brockway quarterback Derek Buganza three times. The final one, by Blose himself, set up his own TD run. Ryan Grimm caught a two-point conversion pass from Vince Summers to put the Red Raiders up

22-20 with 3:40 remaining. Cameron County added another Blose TD run with 2:42 to set the final score....MORE

photo: Hunter Bardo avoids the defense while returning a Brockway punt more photos at http://camconative.dotphoto.com/

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GE Transportation cuts more than 1,500 Pa. jobs

ERIE, Pa. - GE Transportation is cutting more than 1,500 jobs in northwestern Pennsylvania.
The company announced Tuesday that it would make permanent 1,200 temporary layoffs that were announced in February at its factory near Erie, which makes electric locomotives. In addition, 230 hourly jobs and 50 salaried jobs are being cut there. Another 200 people are losing their jobs at an engine plant in Grove City.
Human resources manager Shaun Francis says the company was hoping that orders would improve but cut the jobs when that didn't happen. Francis says employees losing their jobs will get a week's pay for every year of service and paid health care for one year.
The company will have fewer than 4,000 workers in northwestern Pennsylvania after the layoffs, which take effect in 60 days.
,,,
Information from: Erie Times-News, http://www.goerie.com

ed note: GE Transportation announced a reduction of 20 jobs in the Emporium facility. 18 hourly workers, and two salaried workers, will be layed off. Some employees could take an early retirement option
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Rendell Expected To Announce Budget At 8:00 PM

Legislative leaders, Rendell reach agreement on state budgetBy Brad BumstedSTATE CAPITOL REPORTERFriday, September 18, 2009Pittsburgh Live.com
HARRISBURG — Legislative leaders and Gov. Ed Rendell today reached agreement on a 2009-2010 budget that avoids a major state tax hike and may end the longest budget impasse in at least four decades.
Rendell is expected to announce the deal at an 8 p.m. news conference.
Under the deal, the planned phase-out of a business tax would be halted, table games at casinos would be legalized and taxes would be levied on small games of chance at firehouses and clubs. More...

Unstoppable Movie Experience Not So Good For Some Residents

By GRETCHEN ROKOSKYEra CorrespondentGretchen316@yahoo.com
EMPORIUM — What should have been the most exciting day of their lives turned out to be the most disappointing for a group of high school yearbook students from Cameron County High School on Friday.The students had been promised a behind-the-scenes look at the filming of the feature film “Unstoppable,” but the publicist never appeared and the students were left standing in a hot parking lot for hours. Even taking out a small cell phone camera brought down the wrath of security. The students were told to put it away immediately. More...
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GE's Workers Await Fate

Source: Erie Times-News)By Jim Martin, Erie Times-News, Pa.
Sep. 17--GE Transportation announced plans Tuesday to eliminate 1,480 jobs, but the task of sorting out who stays and who doesn't is just beginning.
What is clear is that the 1,200 temporary lack-of-work layoffs the company announced in February will in no way serve as a blueprint for determining who receives a pink slip now.
Of the 50 salaried positions that will be cut, about half already have been identified and notified, said Shaun Francis, the company's general manager of human resources. The rest will be identified over the next two weeks, he said.
On the hourly side of the business, where 1,430 jobs will be eliminated, the company must first determine the number of cuts it wants to make from each job category.
From that number, the company will subtract any employees in that category who elect to retire.
Under a special early-retirement plan that's available to the company's union employees during a work-force reduction, workers who are between the ages of 55 and 60 and have 25 or more years service are eligible for early retirement. ......read MORE
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ROAD CLOSURE AND TRAFFIC DELAYS FRIDAY IN EMPORIUM

Travel Alert from PennDOT
Unstoppable Movie Filming To Stop Traffic In Emporium
The Route 120/155 intersection in Emporium will be closed Friday, September 18 from 9am to 3pm, as filming takes place for the movie Unstoppable.Motorists should choose alternate routes around this closure. Drivers can follow PennDOT’s official detour that uses Routes 155, 120, 555 and 255 or they can choose alternate roads they prefer. Emergency response vehicles will be allowed to travel through the intersection closure. Drivers may also encounter intermittent traffic delays on Friday along Route 120 between East Allegheny Avenue and Britten Hill Road in Emporium. Closures and traffic delays will continue on area roads through October, as filming requires. PennDOT will issue travel advisories on those restrictions as necessary.
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GAME COMMISSION TO HOLD DRAWING FOR BOBCAT/ELK LICENSES

Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe reminded those interested in watching the agency’s public drawings for the 2009 elk hunting licenses and the 2009-10 bobcat season permits to check-out the agency’s live webcast beginning at 10 a.m. on Sept. 11. To view the drawing, a “Watch Drawings Live” icon has been posted on the agency’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) for individuals to click on and watch the drawing.
In order to watch the live feed, you will need to have Flash Player installed on your computer. If you do not have Flash Player installed on your computer, please go to this link: http://www.adobe.com/software/flash/about/. Once Flash Player has been installed, you will be able to properly view the live feed of the drawing.
BOBCAT/ELK GUIDE PERMIT APPLICATION DEADLINE IS OCT. 16Anyone interested in applying to be a bobcat or elk guide for the upcoming seasons should submit a completed application to the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Bureau of Wildlife Protection by Friday, Oct. 16. Guide permits cost $25 for residents and $50 for nonresidents, per species. For those who wish to serve as guides for both bobcat and elk, permit fees are $50 for residents, $100 for nonresidents.
For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission - State Wildlife Management Agency website: http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/pgc/cwp/view.asp?a=11&Q=177110

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Electronic Items Found In Gibson Township

Electronic Items FoundEmporium State Police have announced that they recovered a quantity of electronic items on Thursday in Gibson Township.The found items are in custody of PSP. Anyone wishing to claim these items can contact Emporium PSP at 814-486-3321 with a proper description of the items.

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Unstoppable Getting Ready To Start Production In Area

Films production will boost Cameron Co. businesses
By PATRICK CONNOLLYEra Reporterp.connolly@bradfordera.com

Cameron County, with the state’s highest rate of unemployment, will get an economic shot in the arm from the production of the motion picture “Unstoppable” in coming weeks.“We are really starting to see things pick up,” said Tina Lorson, executive director of the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce. “Already, we are seeing a dramatic increase in traffic.” More...
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New signage grant program announced for PA Wilds

A new grant program designed to improve signage and encourage use of the PA Wilds Design Guide will soon be available to communities and businesses in the PA Wilds region.
The grant program involves up to $1000 for business signs and up to $3000 for community signs. The business signs have a dollar-for-dollar cash match requirement (you put in $1000, they put in $1000). The community signs require only an in-kind contribution (that you install the sign and maintain it after it is installed).
Other requirements include demonstrating how your sign aligns with the spirit of the PA Wilds Design Guide, an award-winning planning document that promotes the use of materials and designs that fit in with the character of our region’s communities (for example, the use of wood, stone and other natural elements). Many communities are already using the Design Guide; its recommendations are all voluntary.
Guidelines and applications for the grant program will be posted on the PA Wilds Resource Center homepage (www.pawildsresources.org) under “Hot Topics” by Fri., Sept. 4. Deadline for applications is Nov. 2, 2009.

State mandates assailed

One member of a regional planning agency says alternatives to municipal sewage treatment plants should be looked at for rural areas.Bill Bogart, industrial representative for Cameron County on the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission, said he is concerned about the state Department of Environmental Protection forcing small communities to put in expensive sewage systems they can't afford. The board has the opportunity to review projects in the region and submit any concerns it has. ............................................read MORE
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Litter Bug Caught By Photo Bug

By Jerry Feaser
PA Game Commission
Sometimes a Pennsylvania Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Officer (WCO) will be forced to spend days or weeks digging through trash illegally dumped on State Game Lands in attempt to apprehend the person or persons responsible. Sometimes it is the information about a case that can be, literally, dumped in a WCO’s lap that helps solve the crime.
Such was the case recently for Blair County WCO Steve Hanczar, who was presented with a series of photographs clearly showing the faces of those dumping trash on State Game Land 158, just below the Tipton Reservoir, as well as the license plates of the vehicles involved in the incident, earlier this spring.Based on the information and photographs, WCO Hanczar charged Roger Lee Lonsinger Sr., 49, of Tyrone, for littering.
On July 28, he pled guilty, and was ordered to pay a fine and court costs of $259.50. Also charged was Samuel Howard Brisbin, 59, of Tyrone, for assisting in the littering incident. Brisban also pled guilty on July 28, and was assessed a fine and court costs of $134.50. On July 11, prior to the guilty plea, Lonsinger and Brisban cleaned up the dump site on July 11, and Lonsinger incurred the cost of the clean up.While it took WCO Hanczar some time to coordinate a meeting with the two individuals, once he did they were presented the photographic evidence along with the prospect of an eyewitness willing to testify, if necessary.
Confronted with this information, Lonsinger and Brisban were cooperative and also cleaned up the site and disposed of the trash properly.“I have always been thankful for the great amount of public lands we have been blessed with here in Pennsylvania and have spent countless hours enjoying the many spectacular outdoor recreational opportunities they provide,” said the concerned sportsman.
“I was glad to be able to play a small part in helping to protect those resources. Wish more folks would do the same.”WCO Hanczar agreed on the need for information from the public in order to initiate or solve crimes on State Game Lands or crimes involving wildlife.
“Our State Game Lands are remote and consist of thousands of acres,” WCO Hanczar said. “We need the support and information of concerned, law-abiding citizens in order to be able to properly patrol State Game Lands. Some of these ‘convenient’ illegal dump sites are near waterways and are potential pollution sources to public water supplies for Tyrone and Altoona.
“We encourage residents to contact us as soon as they find something that warrants an investigation. We also need people to be willing to testify about what they see or find to successfully prosecute cases against those who should no regard for our wildlife or their habitats.”

National Fuel Gas Supply to expand capacity

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. - A unit of National Fuel Gas Co. said Wednesday it is starting a binding open season to expand transportation capacity in the Marcellus Shale fairway in central Pennsylvania.
The National Fuel Gas Supply Corp., which is part of the pipeline and storage segment of the company, will construct new pipeline and compression facilities largely along its existing infrastructure and will serve key northeast markets.
Phase one of construction will be designed to transport about 200,000 dekatherms per day (dth/d) from the Marcellus producing area through a new 32-mile pipeline to be constructed through Elk, Cameron and Clinton Counties, Pa., to the Leidy hub. The company expects an in-service date of November 2011.
Phase two facilities will be designed to provide additional transportation capacity for at least 300,000 dth/d, and will consist of approximately 50 miles of new pipeline and compression, extending the Phase I facilities through Clearfield and Jefferson Counties, Pa., to Supply Corp.'s Line K in western Elk County, for an anticipated in-service date of November 2012.
Shares of National Fuel Gas Co. fell 1 cent to close at $45.98.

Elk Deaths Caused by Illegal Feeding

HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania Game Commission officials recently reported that there have been four cases involving elk that have died or rumen acidosis, which is directly related to artificial feeding that causes an abrupt change in an elk’s diet that wreaks havoc with its digestive system. Feeding elk is illegal, as it causes problems by habituating elk to find food around homes and can be dangerous to those who attempt to feed elk by hand.“So far, we have been able to document four cases of such deaths,” said Dr. Walter Cottrell, Game Commission wildlife veterinarian. “There have been other deaths that we believed may have been caused by such feeding, but, in those cases the animal was either decomposed or other circumstances prevented it from obtaining the carcass in time for laboratory analysis to take place.” Dr. Cottrell explained that elk, as well as white-tailed deer, adapt to a winter diet of primarily woody vegetation and they will die of acidosis caused by a build up of lactic acid in the rumen, chambers of its four-part stomach that is responsible for fermentation of food. If they consume too much high-fermentable grain, such as corn, which is the most common artificial feed put out by local residents, the pH level falls quickly and a shock-like syndrome can occur.Local residents have been issued citations for the illegal feeding. In one case, an elk was found lying dead on a pile of corn. In another case, a resident dragged the carcass of a dead elk into the woods in an attempt to conceal the situation.“We need to have local residents and district justices understand that the well-intentioned individuals are actually killing elk,” Dr. Cottrell said. “For those who truly enjoy seeing elk it is best for them to stop artificially feeding elk and other wildlife. It would be far more beneficial if they were to implement some form of habitat improvement producing cover to reduce weather-related stress or food in the form of digestible native plants on their property.”

Emporium greets Sen. Specter

Tri-County Sunday

U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter's brief visit in Emporium Tuesday evening starkly contrasted with a recent round of heated town hall meetings.Dozens of area residents applauded Specter's stance on reforming health care, which includes allowing citizens to keep their current insurance. No one protested the private meeting hosted by the Cameron County Democratic Committee. The best choice, he said, could be the "public option," where many citizens would be covered under the federal government. That would give people a choice of selecting a carrier at low rates, with it operating like Medicare. "I think we need to fight it out," said Specter, who is serving his fifth term. "Everything (the benefits for veterans, etc.,) is going to stay the same."Meanwhile, Democratic Committee member Von Hause questioned whether Cameron County will see any of the $16 billion federal stimulus money......read MORE

Weed out under-performing teachers with value-added pay plan

YORK DISPATCH

The Pennsylvania State Education Association opposes paying teachers on performance and school choice, preferring to pay teachers on longevity and degrees earned so that poor teachers can earn the same as good teachers. Also, the PSEA does not want to allow parents to place their child in a better school.
These two positions have resulted in hurting public education and making school taxes increase each year three times faster than inflation. In a nutshell, we are spending more to learn less. Consequently, our public schools are not competitive in student achievement and cost per student.
Why do we citizens put up with such outrageous positions? It must be because we haven't taken the time to get involved and understand two proven facts. Choice improves student achievement in all public schools. Paying teachers more based on longevity and degrees has not improved student achievement -- it has actually declined.............MORE
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Pennsylvania State Employees Face No Pay

WYSOX - Right now thousands of state workers, like these Penndot employees, are receiving partial paychecks.
But if Keystone state Democrats and Republicans can't figure out a budget by the end of the month, employees face no money at all.
Logan Kinch says if they don't get paid, Penndot is helping to get them money in other ways.
“Things are getting a little tight. They do have some things that we can get loans and stuff. Hopefully I don't have to use them”, said Kinch.
He says, some workers are saying they might not show up to work until a budget's passed.
“You have both ends of the spectrum. You have people who are dedicated and will be here. But you also have people who will get really mad, and who also need to get other work to supplement their income”, said Kinch.
Earlier this month, republican controlled state senate passed a budget that called for no tax increases.
But the democratically controlled house turned that budget down saying that not raising taxes could cost more than 4 thousand state employees their jobs.
Republican State Senator Gene Yaw, who represents Bradford County, says both the house and the senate will be working on a budget throughout next week.
“We agree with them they should get paid. The governor should be paying them. We are really not sure there is any restriction that they can't be paid”, said Yaw.
If the budget doesn't get passed by Friday, employees have been told they will get their missing pay retroactively.
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Mountain Lines by Nelson Haas

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"Economic Summit" Set Friday In Cameron County

Public officials, community leaders, business operators and all those who are interested in the northcentral Pennsylvania economy are welcome to attend an Economic Summit to be held on Friday at Memorial Hall in Emporium, starting at 9:30 am. Cameron County Chamber of Commerce is hosting the session, during which U.S. Congressman Glenn Thompson will discuss federal policies and field questions.
Cameron County, which has the highest unemployment rate in Pennsylvania, faces economic challenges due in large part to the downturn in the domestic automobile manufacturing and wood products industries. Similar factors have affected the economies in Potter and McKean counties. Congressman Thompson will discuss federal economic development programs and welcome suggestions. Potter County Today
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Great American Trails blog post/ PA Wilds

PA WILDS Bugle Boys

A few minutes ago I checked the outdoor thermometer - 102 degrees. This is the point in summer when I feel like a deflated tire with barely enough pressure to wobble home. The Texas Hill Country is accommodating in winter (not to mention spring and fall), but who wants to wait for winter? I need a respite, a break from this Austin blast furnace.
I could head west, to the Rockies. But with this insufferable Texas drought I am ready to see something green, verdant. There is simply too much desert between me and those mountains. My compass is pointing east, toward the Appalachian Divide. The Blue Ridge will be jammed, and I would prefer an area with more birds than people. The Adirondacks will be packed as well, and New Jersey? No offense, but I have never caught the Wildswoods fever. No, my bags are packed for Pennsylvania.

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Local Kids perform at Altoona Curve game

Some members of the Donachy Gymnastics team were invited to perform for the fans at the Altoona Curve game last night. The kids were taken onto the field to show there skills, and stayed for the game and fireworks afterwards. Several of the children, on the team, are from Emporium.

814 Area Code Running Out of Phone Numbers

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission is studying plans to deal with the state's 814 area code, which is quickly running out of phone numbers.The PUC projects the area code will run out of numbers sometime in 2012. One option the PUC is considering is assigning a new area code to all new phone numbers added in the area after a certain date. Another option is splitting the area that 814 covers and assigning a new area code for part of the region.Anyone interested in commenting on the changes must contact the PUC by September 8.from the PUC

Local Tourism Growing During Recession

A Bright Spot: Amid hard times, some PA Wilds tourism businesses, events thrive
By Tataboline Brant
Hundreds of thousands of new visitors have come to the Pennsylvania Wilds since the state started working with local authorities six years ago to brand and market the region and upgrade its visitor infrastructure.
But just as the Pennsylvania Wilds initiative was getting real traction in the region’s business community, the nation’s economy went to pot. As bad news mounted, many wondered how tourism businesses in our region were faring.
Like most places in America, the Pennsylvania Wilds region has been hit by layoffs and job losses. But amid the hard times, several tourism-related businesses and events in the region say they are growing.
The Pennsylvania Wilds has long been a place for nature lovers and for families looking to get away on a budget,..........read MORE
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CC FAIR ROYALTY

Congratulations to these young fair winners!!Prince: Blaine Farren,Princess: Zoey Kossman,Jr. Miss: Marissa Umble, Miss Cameron County: Amanda Pries

Rendell Signs 'Bridge' Measure

Governor Ed Rendell has signed legislation that provides a mechanism for state employees to be paid, but does not provide a complete and final budget for the 2009-10 fiscal year. “What I am signing today is not a budget,” Rendell said. “I am signing legislation that will simply allow us to pay state employees who provide for immediate critical public health and safety services, and that will send negotiators back to the table to communicate, compromise and get real about delivering a true budget agreement for Pennsylvania.” Rendell signed Senate Bill 850 after he vetoed all program funding line items except those pertaining to payroll and essential public protection. The measure is an incomplete budget of roughly $11 billion.For more information, go to the governor's web site.

Celebrating a life of scouting

A local physician who works as a family practitioner for Guthrie in Canton, Pa. and is a Troy resident, has recently decided to step down as Scoutmaster after providing 20 years in this capacity for Troop #47 in Troy, Pa.
Sixty-one year old Dr. John Weis, who was born and raised in Emporium, Pa. and located to Troy, Pa. 31 years ago, has spent his life not only helping people through his work, but by cultivating leadership among young men in the community.
When Weis was growing up in Emporium, Pa., he belonged to a scout troop that collapsed by the time he turned 16. When this happened, according to Weis, he was very disappointed. "I had advanced in scouting at that point, and when they folded I couldn’t go any further," he said.

.........read MORE

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More goofyness from the Guv'na

Gov. Ed Rendell says state will help Harley-Davidson stay in Pa.

Monday August 03, 2009, 10:04 AM

YORK, Pa. -- Gov. Ed Rendell says the state will not let a Harley-Davidson plant in central Pennsylvania leave without a fight.
At a rally Sunday inside Sovereign Bank Stadium in York, Rendell told a crowd of plant workers and motorcycle enthusiasts that officials are designing a plan to help the company stay. The package includes help with job training and infrastructure, low-interest loans and $15 million for upgrades.
Harley-Davidson said in May its facility in Springettsbury Township is not cost-effective and that it might move its operations. More than 2,000 local jobs are at stake.
The rally Sunday followed a 50-mile ride of support by hundreds of bikers through York and Adams counties.

The state can't even get a budget passed to pay the state employees, yet can find money to bail out an outdated, overbloated private manufacturer? Outrageous. The average Harley costs almost $20,000 and yet they need state subsidies to upgrade their plant? I say let them take their junk back to Milwaukee.

Its Fair Time!

more photos at http://camconative.dotphoto.com