WFRM NEWS ARCHIVE | Current Month

Coudersport Volunteer emergency services personnel responded to a call for an “odor investigation” at the Potter County Jail this morning just before 6:00 a.m. Arriving firefighters confirmed a strong smell of natural gas and inmates housed on the second floor were moved to a secure area on the first floor according to pre-determined evacuation plans. Third shift guards were detained to assist some 18 other law enforcement personnel from state police, borough police and the sheriff’s departments in maintaining security. The Coudersport volunteer ambulance crew responded along with staff from Potter County EMA, and the Roulette Volunteer Fire Department. Star Hose volunteers from Port Allegany stood by at the Roulette station under the mutual aid system. PPL Gas Utilities was notified. The situation was brought under control at 7:15 a.m. and was turned over to the warden as a maintenance issue according to Coudersport First Assistant Chief Bryan Phelps. All units were back in service a half hour later. There are currently 36 inmates residing in the jail and a contingency plan was in place for a secure evacuation if required. There were no injuries.

Kane-based state police are investigating a theft taking place over the past three months at the Verizon Wireless Tower Site located off of Route 59 west of Route 219 in Lafayette Township, McKean County. Thieves stole about 100 feet of copper/clad wire after cutting a wire fence belonging to Crown Castle USA to gain entry. The value of the wire and damages are said to be about $450.00.

The Pennsylvania Department Agriculture Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement is canvassing Coudersport borough and surrounding areas this month. State law requires that all dogs three moths or older be licensed by January 1 of each year. The fee is $6.00 for each spayed or neutered dog and $8.00 for other dogs. Senior Citizens and persons with disabilities may purchase a license for $4.00 for spayed or neutered dogs and $6.00 for others. Violators are being cited and the maximum fines are $300. Rabies vaccinations are required for all dogs and any cat that enters a human dwelling over three months of age. The maximum fine per violation of the rabies law is $300. All dogs must be under control and are not permitted to run-at-large. Dog licenses can be purchased at the Potter County Treasurer’s office in the court house. For more information, call the State Dog Warden Ronald Adams at 814.367.2641.

In regional news, 45 year old Dina Jackson of Middlebury Center has been charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, reckless endangerment, intimidation of a witness or victims, endangering the welfare of children and possession of instruments of crime in connection to an incident taking place early Wednesday morning at a residence along Route 287 in Middlebury Township. Mansfield-based state police claim Jackson stabbed 35 year old Chad Orvek in the left rear during an argument over marijuana in front of a five year old girl. They also assert Jacksons threatened an adult female witness if she told the truth of the incident to police. Orvek was taken by private vehicle to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro and then, because of the extent of his injuries, was flown by heliocopter to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre.

A couple of vehicle thefts are under investigation by area state police. A 1998 Chevy Silverado belonging to Arnold Haynes of Emporium was found early Tuesday morning after it was wrecked in McKean County. Troopers said the truck was taken from the Haynes residence on Old West Creek Road at around 3:00 a.m. and was found later along Route 46 a half mile north of the Bordell Crossroad in Keating Township McKean County. While headed north the truck went off the road and became disabled after striking an embankment. The driver took off and police investigating the crash found it had been stolen.

Brian Uber 32, of Bradford is charged with the theft of a motor vehicle and several other crimes following an incident taking place just before 4:00 a.m. Tuesday in McKean County. State police say Wade and Laura Swanson of Smethport reported their 2003 Dodge Ram truck had been stolen from their residence on Route 46 in Keating Township. When troopers located the truck, Uber allegedly took off and led troopers, Bradford City Police and Pitt/Bradford police on a high speed chase until he drove the truck through a chain link fence at Dresser Manufacturing and entered the plant in an effort to escape .He was later located with the help of information from the public. Authorities claim when they detained Uber, he was found to be in possession of a suspected illegal substance and drug paraphernalia. He was committed to the McKean County Prison in lieu of $25,000 bail after being arraigned on charges

A Roulette resident is being charged with DUI, Theft, receiving stolen property and underage drinking in connection to an incident early Sunday morning In Hebron Township. Troopers say they observed 20 year old Terry Clark of E. Carley Hill Road in possession of an alcoholic beverage. When they took Clark into custody on the Dingman Run Road at about 1:30 a.m. they allegedly found him and his 16 year old companion in possession of several stolen PennDot and Township Road signs. The road signs, valued at $450 were returned to the owners and Clark will answer charges before District Judge Barbara Easton while the teen will be prosecuted through Potter County Probation.

State police here have also charged 23 year old Paula Larson of East Mill Street, Port Allegany with possession of a controlled substance and paraphernalia following an incident Saturday afternoon at Charles Cole Hospital. Authorities claim Larson concealed a pill bottle in a private body cavity which was found by medical staff during a physical examination. Troopers say the bottle contained a Schedule IV controlled substance which Larson had no lawful authority to possess and claim she became disorderly when hospital personnel seized the pill bottle. She is also being charged with disorderly conduct

A Wellsboro man died Monday night in a motorcycle crash on Route 287 in Delmar Township. Mansfield-based state police said 63 year old Edward Lyon was traveling too fast for his ’07 Harley Davidson to negotiate a left hand curve. The bike went off the east berm and struck several mailboxes and a utility pole before stopping. Lyon was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators noted he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

An East Smethport man was committed to the McKean County Jail Firday night in lieu of $5,000 bail after being arraigned on charges of terroristic threats, criminal mischief; and harassment. Authorities claim 19 year old Jeremiah Smith threatened to kill a female victim in his home while chasing her with a large piece of metal. He’s accused of smashing three windows in a car, hitting the woman with a plastic broom and causing welts on a male victim by hitting him with a dog leash. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for May 19.

A camp burglary on Eva’s Way off of Route 872 in Grove Township, Cameron County is being probed by state police at Emporium. Sometime over the past month, thieves broke into a camp owned by John Cheselske of Hutchinson, PA and took a fishing rod and reel combo; a tool box containing various small tools, a pair of binoculars, small amount of currency, a .22 cal Harrington and Richardson 9 Shot revolver.

One of the world's most mysterious insectsis about to invade the skies over forest lands in central and eastern Pennsylvania, but an expert in Penn State's College of Agricultural
Sciences says it's not a cause for alarm.     Residents of Adams, Bedford, Berks, Blair, Centre, Clearfield,Clinton, Cumberland, Franklin, Huntingdon, Lackawanna, Lehigh, Luzerne,Lycoming, Mifflin, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Potter, Schuylkill,
Snyder, Tioga, Union and York counties soon will see an emergence of periodical cicadas, commonly but mistakenly called 17-year locusts. These insects are harmless to people, but they cause some damage to shade trees, fruit trees and high-value woody ornamental plants.In some affected areas where the ground is damp, observant
homeowners already have noticed that periodical cicada nymphs have built
small earthen turrets over their holes to protect their escape routes
from too much moisture.     Damage caused by periodical cicadas occurs during egg-laying. Usingthe blades of a saw-like device on her abdomen, a female will cut
several small pockets in the bark of a twig before depositing 400 to 600
eggs. This process can cause small limbs or seedlings to wilt and may
provide an opening for disease. Adults live only a few weeks, but the
twig injury they cause may be apparent for several years.    The periodical cicada is native to North America and exists nowhereelse in the world. There are six species of periodical cicada, three with a 17-year cycle and three with a 13-year cycle. Periodical cicada populations -- called broods -- are identified by Roman numerals. All
eight broods that occur in Pennsylvania require 17 years to reach
maturity.   The cicadas surfacing this year are members of Brood XIV, which
last was seen in 1991. The distribution of Brood XIV includes 24
counties in central and eastern Pennsylvania.     Adult cicadas are clumsy flyers, often colliding with objects in flight. Males begin their constant singing shortly after they emerge, but the females are silent. When heard from a distance, the cicadas'
chorus is a whirring monotone, sometimes described as eerie-sounding. On
rare occasions when an adult eats, it sucks fluid from small twigs but
does not feed on leaves. Ten days following emergence, mating takes
place.Adults live up to four weeks above ground. Six to seven weeks after
the eggs are laid, nymphs hatch and drop to the ground. There, they
enter the soil, not to see the light of day for 17 years.

05/06/08

Two Bradford High Seniors were killed in a fiery crash Friday night on West Washington Street near the Marilla Reservoir. Authorities said 18 year old Evan Yehl was headed east when his car went off the road, struck several trees and burst into flames. Yehl and one of his passengers, 18 year old Britt Bookhamer were killed in the crash while a second passenger Ian Clark was taken to Hamot Medical Center in Erie were he’s said to be in fair condition. A second crash took place near the same spot, seconds later. Police said 19 Jeffrey Caldwell, a friend of the other teens was following the Yehl car and when he tried to avoid the wreck, his car crossed to the other side of the road, struck an embankment and came to rest in a ditch. Caldwell and his passengers, 18 year old Joshua Hilmes and 16 year old Brenton Goldthwait were all released after being treated for minor injuries at Bradford Regional Medical Center. Bradford Township Police say their investigation is continuing and charges are pending against Caldwell.

A Coudersport driver is facing DUI charges following a one-vehicle crash early last Thursday morning on Eulalia Townsihp Road 327 just east of Woodland Heights. Troopers said Zachary Pucci was traveling west on Vader Hill Road when his ’98 Mazda rotated counterclockwise, went up an embankment, overturned and struck a utility pole, splitting it into three pieces. Pucci was wearing a seatbelt and escaped injury.

State police here have charged 26 year old Levi Hunt of Wellsville with forgery, conspiracy and receiving stolen property for incidents allegedly taking place over the past six weeks. Troopers claim Hunt stole some blank checks from a truck owned by Josey Kemp of Wellsville; forged Kemp’s signature and cashed one for $300 at Reed’s Market and one for$100 at State Line One Stop, both in Genesee in return for cash. Hunt was taken into custody across the border in New York State where he is facing similar charges. He was arraigned before District Judge Barbara Easton and police say they are looking for an accomplice, described as being a woman in her early to mid ‘20s with dark hair. Anyone who can provide information as to her identity is asked to call the local barracks at 274-8690.

Two McKean County juveniles are being charged with burglary, theft, and criminal mischief for an incident occurring Friday between 4:00 and 4:30 p.m. at the Crosby baseball field in Norwich Township. The youths are accused breaking into a storage shed and stealing a variety of candy and beverages. The value of the stolen items and damage to the door frame have not yet been determined.

PennDot announces that a detour will return in Galeton this Thursday on the Route 6/144 project which resumed last month. Work underway includes roadway widening and paving; street lighting; installation of a new traffic signal; sidewalk and drainage improvements’ and landscaping. Starting Thursday, eastbound traffic will be sent off of Route 6 to Route 144; to Germania Street; to West Street and then back to Route 6. Westbound traffic will continue to move straight through town on Route 6. PennDot expects the project to be completed by September. Contractor for the $3.3 million job is A. L. Blades and Sons, Inc. of Hornell.

Long-promised tax relief for Pennsylvania Property owners is finally on the way.The State Department of Education on Thursday issued a list of figures for all school districts showing the total amount each will receive for the 2008-2009 fiscal year. Gaming revenues collected from slot machines at the state’s seven casinos will be distributed to the state’s 501 school district every year, under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 2006. Taxpayers will see a credit on their 2008-2009 tax bill and their school district will be reimbursed the amount from the gaming monies. Here in Potter County Austin residents will see a reduction of $333; Coudersport, $179; Galeton, $219; Northern Potter, $218; and Oswayo Valley, $149. McKean County property owners will receive a credit of $220 in the Port Allegany School District (Roulette and Pleasant Valley Townships of Potter County included); $173 in Otto-Eldred; and $194 in Smethport. The statewide average is $190.

The attorney for 46 year old Michael Seifert of West Seneca, NY has asked McKean County Judge John Yoder to move the trial out of McKean County or bring an outside jury in, citing pre-trial publicity. Seifert was at the controls of a North Folk Southern train on June 30, 2006 when 28 cars derailed, spilling 44,000 gallons of lye into the Sinnemahoning Creek near the village of Gardeau. Fish and acquatic life were wiped out for several miles downstream and the clean-up continues. Seifert is charged in McKean County with risking a catastrophe and reckless endangerment. Investigators found the train was moving in excess of 70 mph in a 35 mph zone. Seifert is charged by the state attorney general with two counts of unlawful conduct regarding solid waste and water pollution. Norfolk Southern has been fined more that $8.9 million by the Department of Environmental protection. There were no human casualties in the derailment.

The 42^nd Annual Potter-Tioga Maple Festival is going on today through tomorrow night in Coudersport. There are vendors on the courthouse square and a Kiddie Carnival and games from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.; a live demonstration of the “Sugar Shanty”, “Maple Products”, Displays and Sales and music in the gazebo both days. The Pet Parade will begin tonight at 6 p.m. with registration beginning at 5:30 p.m. Saturday’s attractions include a Pancake Breakfast from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Coudersport Consistory. The Fine Arts Council will have an Art Show at the Methodist Church from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; the Arden Burdick Car Display begins at 10 a.m. to Noon for registrations and judging to begin at 1 p.m There will be Tours of the C & PA Caboose and Potter County Historical Society will begin at 10 a.m.; Great American Used Book Sale will be held at the Coudersport Library on Park Avenue;” music award competition is scheduled for Saturday. The Maple Sweetheart final judging will be held at the gazebo at 1 p.m. and the Maple Festival Sweetheart Parade will begin at 3 p.m. with awards following parade. Closeout of the 2-day event will be from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the 4^th Annual Potter-Tioga “Maple Festival Idol” Karaoke Contests.

Quick thinking on the part of a passerby and responding firefighters kept damage to a minimum when fire broke out Wednesday night at the Cobb residence on East Second Street in Coudersport. According to First Assistant Chief Bryan Phelps, the homeowner had placed ashes from the wood stove in a five gallon plastic bucket on the front porch and a breeze fanned the ashes causing them to ignite. The flames spread up the siding and decking and were spotted by Steve Kelly who notified 9-1-1. Firefighters Kyle Eckert and Larry Beldin quickly arrived on the scene and began extinguishing the flames. 18 firefighters arrived on scene with four pieces of equipment and the situation was quickly brought under control. Damage has been estimated to be about $1000.

Rep. Martin Causer has announced he has secured $50,000 in state grants to be shared by 10 senior centers in Potter, Cameron and McKean Counties. The lawmaker told WFRM there are no strings attached on how the centers can use the money The centers are located in Coudersport, Galeton, Ulysses and Shinglehouse here in Potter County’ in Bradford, Smethport, Port Allegany, Eldred in McKean and Emporium and Driftwood in Cameron County.

The Coudersport Rotary Club is looking for host families for a 17 year old boy from the Dominican Republic who will be spending the next school year attending a Potter County school. Jonathan Sanchez is active in sports, particularly basketball and soccer and plans to study business administration in college. Families interested in hosting Sanchez are encouraged to contact Potter County Judge John Leete in the court house, 274-9720. The host family provides room and board; the local Rotary club provides spending money and Rotary International provides health insurance.

A Lock Haven teenager is facing DUI charges following a one-vehicle crash early this morning on the Sunny Side Road in Sharon Township. State police say 19 year old Jeremiah Asper lost control of his GMC Sierra while headed east. The vehicle ran off the road and struck a tree on the south side. Asper and one of his passengers, Travis Wackwitz of Shinglehouse were taken to Olean General Hospital for treatment. A second passenger, Adam Simpson also of Shinglehouse apparently escaped injury.

Injuries were also reported for a Genesee teenager after a one-vehicle crash Monday afternoon on Route 449 about a half mile north of the Whitney Road in Genesee Township. Troopers said 17 year old Zachery Monroe became distracted and allowed his Chevrolet Blazer to head toward some guardrails on the east side. When he jerked the wheel to the left to correct, the vehicle crossed to the other side and struck an embankment, then spun around counter clockwise and struck a tree. Monroe was taken to Charles Cole Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. He’s facing summary traffic violations.

A Northern Potter student is being prosecuted in juvenile court in connection to an incident allegedly taking place Monday evening/ Authorities claim the 17 year old Westfield boy made numerous threatening remarks toward teacher Chad Haskins of Coudersport and toward the school in front of fellow students.

The theft of a 40 ft. fiberglass ladder from a location on Cooney Hollow Road in Portage Township sometime between April 12 and this past Sunday is being investigated by troopers locally. The orange colored ladder belonged to Kevin Major and is valued at $500.

The State Agriculture Department says Mile-a-Minute, an invasive, noxious vine that can kill other plants, is being targeted for removal this summer near Sinnemahoning State Park in Potter and Cameron counties. Mile-a-Minute can kill native plants, depriving them of sunlight by rapidly growing over them. Mile-a-Minute is a state noxious weed regulated by the Pennsylvania Noxious Weed Control Law. Mile-a-Minute, or Polygonum perfoliatum, is native to Asia. The plant has a reddish stem armed with downward pointing, sharp hooks or barbs, also found on the underside of its light green triangular leaves. While not poisonous to humans, the barbs can tear clothing and cut the skin. Wearing gloves is recommended when handling the weed. The weed first was introduced to southeastern Pennsylvania in the 1940’s, where it is now widespread. The seeds were likely transported to the Sinnemahoning State Park and north to Costello, Pa., by water, migrating birds or other wildlife. Property owners can hand-pull any vines discovered this summer to help limit its spread. Hand-removal, chemical-spraying or mowing of the vines before setting fruit is critical to preventing seed dispersal by birds and water. It may take several years of treatment to eliminate the weed completely.

Last summer, the Department of Agriculture and volunteers from the other organizations conducted a “weed walk” to determine the severity of the infestation along Route 872 and the first fork of the Sinnemahoning Creek. This year, the agriculture department hired Cameron County resident Jim Zoschg to help slow the spread and eradicate the weed from private land in the Sinnemahoning Valley. From April 14 – Aug. 29, Zoschg will travel in a white Dodge truck with state tags along Route 872, beginning at the northern edge of Sinnemahoning State Park and continuing through Costello.

To report this vine, or for assistance in controlling it on their property, landowners should contact Zoschg at 570-417-2661 or 814-486-0705. If property owners have already signed a consent-to-spray form and Mile-a-Minute weed is on their property, Zoschg can aid with the necessary steps to destroy the weed, which may involve mowing the weed before it produces seeds. The Bucktail Watershed Association is also planning educational outreach efforts this summer relating to Mile-a-Minute. Todd Deluccia, Cameron County Watershed specialist, will work with Zoschg to remove the vine. Deluccia can be contacted at 814-486-9354.Additionally, the Sinnemahoning State Park began implementing a management plan for the infestation in the park in 2006 and will continue the effort through this year. Anyone interested in volunteering with the park should contact Lisa Bainey or Jackie Flynn at 814-647-8401.

State police at Kane are looking for a man who attempted an armed robbery this morning at the Lewis Run Crosby Mini mart. The white male was dressed in all black clothing including a long sleeve shirt or sweatshirt, black pants, and a black ski mask with a rectangular opening. He’s said to be about 5’6” tall, weighs between 130 and 140 pounds and is of thin build. He brandished a fixed blade knife demanding money from the clerk who activated the panic alarm when he went to the cash register. The would-be bandit took off on foot, empty handed, headed north on Route 219. The knife had a 4-6” blade and a camouflaged handle. It’s not known yet if the incidents are related, however, thieves broke into Mick’s Min Mart about 5 miles from the other convenience store sometime between 8:00 o’clock last night and 5:00 a.m. today. Thieves stole about $675 in cash; a black cast-iron safe containing another $1,000 to $1500; about 30 cans of Skoal Tobacco, three cartons of Marlboro Lights and numerous sunglasses. Anyone with information about either incident is asked to call the Kane Barracks at 778-5555.

Charges are pending against an Emporium driver following a one-vehicle crash Monday at around 11:00 a.m. State police said 58 year old Michael Palmerchuck was headed east on the Old West Creek Road just west of Route 120 when he became distracted and allowed his Dodge Dakota to travel off the road and damage the undercarriage. Less than two weeks ago, on April 18, Palmerchuck’s truck mirror hit a bicyclist on Old West Creek Road when he tried to pass. Michael Fiscus, 58, was treated at an area hospital for injuries he suffered when he was knocked off the bike.

The Potter County Commissioners, during their regular meeting last Thursday, formally announced that Potter County Human Services will not be moving to the Gunsburger Annex, the former Adelphia School Building on North Main Street in Coudersport. The announcement, which had been rumored for several weeks, was made by Chairman Doug Morley. During a regular meeting in late February or early March, the commissioners seemed to back away from moving Human Services to the building donated by Time-Warner, as had been planned by the previous Board. Human Services staff reportedly was told about the change late last month. Commissioner Paul Heimel noted the county owns the LL Smith Building in Roulette free and clear. When questioned by WFRM on April 14, Chairman Morley said not plans had been made and that the commissioners were waiting for a report from LaBella and Associates, the firm they had hired to review the space available and requirements. The commissioners did acknowledge that they had discussed an Alternative Education program with the county’s school superintendents and said the program might be located in the building along with county offices.

The Chamber of Commerce announces that the parking in the metered spots in
downtown Coudersport will be free while the detour on Route 6 is in effect.
The Chamber thanks the Coudersport Borough Council for considering the
request from the Chamber. The Chamber of Commerce has also contracted for billboards on the east and west sides of Coudersport encouraging motorists to visit historic downtown Coudersport. Local photographer Curt Weinhold has donated the use of one ofhis photographs of the downtown for these billboards.

Kane-based state police are looking for 32 year old Lynton Turner II of Coudersport on theft charges. Authorities claim Turner was visiting his uncle, Dale Walker in Mt. Jewett last night and when he left early this morning, he took five antique lighters with him. They are valued at $100 and anyone who knows of his whereabouts is asked to call the Kane Barracks at 778-5555.

Some 14 Coudersport firefighters responded with two pieces of equipment to a wildfire on Grom Hill Road Sunday afternoon. According to First Assistant Chief Bryan Phelps, an abandoned 12 x 60 mobile home owned by Stanley Goodwin of Coudersport was destroyed in the blaze which blackened about a quarter acre of surrounding grassland. There were no injuries and the cause remains under investigation.

A Ulysses couple escaped injury in a one-vehicle crash Friday afternoon on the North Hollow Road.. State police said Lorraine Angood lost control of her northbound Ford Explorer when she swerved to avoid a collision with an oncoming vehicle. The SUV crossed to the other side of the road then went into a ditch where it traveled for about 60 feet before striking an embankment. Troopers said both the driver and her passenger David Angood were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

A Smethport woman was released after posting bail following arraignment Friday on three separate but related cases. Authorities allege 44 year old Ella Hahn stole jewelry and a debit card from District Judge William Todd and his wife, Mary, while employed in their home between June 2007 and this past February. She is also accused of committing identity theft by using the debit card to obtain a total of some $4,000 from an ATM machine on two occasions. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for may 7 before Judge Rich Luther.

Shannon Louk, 29, of Bradford has been released after posting $5,000 bail for indecent contact and harassment. State police at Kane say Louk entered a home on route 59 early Friday morning and subjected a female victim to unwanted contact and also shoved her. A warrant was issued for his arrest but Louk surrendered Sunday at the Kane barracks.

Troopers here are probing a recent burglary and a couple of criminal mischief incidents. Thieves broke into a shed at a camp located on the Loucks Mills Road earlier this month and took a carburetor off of an ATV belonging to Earl Wells of Glen Moore, PA and Ronald Landis of New Holland, PA. Vandals smashed two side windows on a van belonging to Potter County Human Services sometime last week while it was parked at the LL Smith Building on North Street in Roulette. Damage said to be $300. And someone shot a windshield four times on a van owned by Kenneth Collins also last week while it was parked at his residence on Musto Hollow Road in Bingham Township. Damage there estimated to be $500

Coudersport-based state police have charged three Shinglehouse residents in connection to the theft of some items from a car earlier this month in that town.. Troopers say 19 year old Casey Corzier and a 17 year old boy unlawfully entered a car owned by Tosha Learn while it was parked at her home on Lyons Street during the early morning hours of April 18 and stole about $5.00 worth of coins and a Sirrus Radio valued at $100. Then, they allegedly tried to enter her home through a window and caused about $20 in damage to the screen. Crozier was taken into custody a couple of hours later and was committed to the Potter County Jail in lieu of $15,000 bail after being arraigned before District Judge Barbara Easton on charges of attempted burglary, criminal trespass, corruption of minors, theft from a motor vehicle and criminal mischief. Paul Slater, 32, was apprehended the next day and was also committed to the county lock-up in lieu of $15,000 bail after being arraigned before Judge Easton on charges of criminal conspiracy to commit burglary, to commit criminal trespass; to commit corruption of minors, to commit theft from a motor vehicle, and criminal mischief. Police allege Slater played a part in the commission of the crimes as they took place. The 17 year old boy is being processed through Potter County probation on charges of criminal conspiracy for burglary and trespass; theft from a motor vehicle and criminal mischief.In other McKean County court news, 32 year old Christopher Safford of Port Allegany was ordered to spend eight months of probation for violating state drug laws. He was arrested after spoons containing morphine residue were found in an apartment he had just vacated.

A 30 year old Ludlow man has had his probation revoked after being charged by Kane based state plice with theft and possession of drug paraphernalia. Troopers allege Raymond Eckstrom stole a drainage grate valued at $75 from Koza’s Korner in Ludlow Wednesday afternoon and while they were investigating they encountered Eckstrom at a traffic stop and allegedly found him in possession of drug paraphernalia. Authorities also claim the driver of the vehicle, 31 year old Victoria Cawthon also of Ludlow also had drug items on her person.

State Police arrested 16 people in Tioga County for allegedly distributing almost $250,000 worth of cocaine, heroin, marijuana and prescription drugs.Attorney General Tom Corbett said that this group of people was responsible for the selling of more than two kilos of cocaine, 20 bricks of heroin, 50 pounds of marijuana, and thousands of prescription pills and patches, including Percocet, OxyContin and Vicodin in the Mansfield area over the last two years.Corbett said that this investigation began early in 2007 as a continuation of Operation Failing Grade. The original Operation Failing Grade was a 16-month investigation that culminated in November of 2006 leading to the arrests of nine Mansfield University students who were allegedly involved in a drug ring that trafficked as much as $500,000 worth of cocaine, marijuana and prescription drugs.Corbett noted that the first Operation Failing Grade had a 100 percent conviction rate.
Corbett said that Jacob Houck, who was arrested in phase one of Operation Failing Grade, had bought and sold drugs with two of the people arrested this week. Three of the suspects are Mansfield University students.Corbett said the investigation utilized a grand jury and confidential informants and revealed that the defendants traveled as far as Williamsport, Philadelphia, Lancaster and Elmira, New York to buy drugs for redistribution in Tioga County and that it was a loosely knit group of students and local residents who were selling drugs to other students and residents of Tioga County

In the news this Thursday, several months of planning will come to an end today when the Potter County Commissioners announce their plans for relocation of several county departments into the Gunzburger Building on North Main Street in downtown Coudersport.
A professional space planner has studied the former Coudersport Elementary School building and met with department heads to determine their needs.
Commissioners Doug Morley, Susan Kefover and Paul Heimel will be discussing plans for the office relocations during today’s business meeting at the courthouse. It’s actually one of three consecutive meetings to be held at the commissioners’ office, starting at 11 am. In addition to the commissioners’ meeting, there will be sessions for the county’s salary board and retirement board.
Time Warner Cable donated the former elementary school to the county last year and it was named the Gunzburger Building, as a memorial to long-time Potter County public servant Ferdinand Gunzburger.
Once the massive building was secured, the previous board of commissioners announced that they were shelving their plans to borrow millions of dollars and build a new county office annex on the former Potter County Texaco lot, across from the county jail on East Second Street.

Potter County has a new assistant district attorney. She is Jessica Songster, a Coudersport High School graduate. Jessica, the daughter of Jerry and Gretchen Songster, has been hired for the part-time assistant DA position by Potter County District Attorney Dawn Fink. She will also continue part-time in private practice, affiliated with the Coudersport law firm of Acker and Larsen. Songster fills a vacancy created when former Assistant DA Mary Morris resigned late last year.

Plans are in place for the annual Potter-Tioga Maple Festival, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 2nd and 3rd, in downtown Coudersport. All of the traditional activities will return, including the Maple Sweetheart Parade that Saturday afternoon at 3 o’clock. The Maple Festival is a project of the Coudersport Area Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the Potter-Tioga Maple Producers Association.

A state community development official was in Potter County earlier this week for a first-hand look at the Austin Dam Memorial Park and surrounding property. Kim Wheeler from the State Department of Community and Economic Development visited the site on Tuesday. Her department has been contacted for possible financial support as local officials put together a plan to expand the park into a section south of the massive Austin Dam ruins. One version of the plan calls for development of a walking or bicycling trail leading from the dam site southward to Austin Borough. Another state agency, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, has also taken an interest in the plan. Among the organizations involved in this developing plan are Austin Borough Council, the Austin Dam Memorial Association, the Potter County Commissioners, Potter County Redevelopment Authority and the Potter County Visitors Association.

Potter County’s celebrated leek will be in the spotlight on Saturday at Fezz’s Diner, near Sweden Valley, during the third annual Leek Fezz-tival. It’s more than a clever promotion for a business; it’s a community celebration of spring with a tip of the cap to the timeless tradition of harvesting those wild, but smelly onions that grow throughout much of the region. Activities start with a Best Leek Dish contest at noon. At 2 pm, the children will have their own lighthearted Leek Hunt, using artificial leeks. Oldies music will be featured from 4 to 8 pm in the style of a ‘50s and ‘60s sock hop. Those attending are encouraged to dress the part and take a step back in time.

U.S. Route 6 will be the site of a national cleanup on Saturday. Pennsylvania Route 6 Heritage Corp. is joining the campaign, encouraging volunteers and organizations to help clean litter from sections of the 400-mile stretch of road that passes through the state.
A five-mile stretch in Potter County will be taken care in cooperation with the Potter County Probation Office, the Boyd family and Galeton Rotary Club. For more information, contact Terri Dennison or Autumn Harter at 435-7706.

A study of contaminants in the Allegheny River is moving upstream, with research expected to reach McKean County by June. Dr. Conrad Volz from the University of Pittsburgh is heading the study, which has found contaminants in downstream sections that could harm humans and wildlife. Volz’s team will set up in the Eldred area, working with Penn State Cooperative Extension. Dr. Volz said there are reasons for concern, based on the identification of contaminants linked to everything from birth defects to Alzheimer’s disease in the Allegheny. His study has found arsenic, mercury and estrogen likely linked to pharmaceuticals and household products. Additional information on the Allegheny River study is available from Jim Clark at the Cooperative Extension office in Smethport.

In local sports, Coudersport High School football coach Paul Simcoe has been chosen for the highest honor in Pennsylvania scholastic sports. Simcoe, who recently retired, will be inducted into the Pennsylvania Football Coaches Hall of Fame during ceremonies to be held on June 13 in Hershey. He leaves Coudersport as the all-time winningest football coach in PIAA District 9 history, compiling an overall record of 204-77-9 over 29 seasons. Simcoe led the Falcons to four District 9 Class A titles. He is also stepping down as a health and physical education and driver education instructor at Coudersport. Assistant coach Brendan Hathaway, who came aboard in 2006, will take over as head coach.

Potter County Democrats gave Hillary Clinton almost a two to one margin over Barack Obama in yesterday’s Presidential Primary. The unofficial vote total was 1047 to 567. Potter County Elections Director Sandy Lewis told WFRM 43% of registered voters turned out with more than 4400 casting ballots. While Glenn Thompson Jr. won the Republican nomination in the 5^th congressional district race, Potter County Republicans chose DerekWalker with 708 unofficial votes. He was followed by Jeff Stroehmann with 553, Matt Shaner with 457.Thompson came in fourth out of nine here in Potter County with 372 votes. Potter County Democrats chose Mark McCracken to represent the party in a bid for congress with 581 votes followed by Richard Vilello Jr with 430 and Bill Cahir with 361. McCracken, a Clearfield County Commissioner will face Thompson, the Centre County GOP chairman in the November election to fill a seat being vacated by John Peterson who endorsed Thompson a couple of weeks before the Primary after interviewing all 12 candidates. The vote totals are unofficial until the Canvassing and Computing board certifies the results later this week.

In other news, Coudersport Borough police say both drivers escaped injury in a collision Wednesday morning at a borough intersection. Police say Lester Goss was headed north on Borie and failed to stop at the newly posted temporary stop sign and drove into the side of a vehicle driven by Jerald Blotza of Bradford which was traveling east on Oak Street. Authorities noted this is the second collision to occur at that location since the Route 6 detour was put into place a few weeks ago and remind residents, especially of the traffic flow changes in place while the Route 6/Mike Franklin Bridge near the Consistory is being replaced.

All three Austin residents involved in a fight at a Keating Township residence late April 15 are facing charges in district court. State police say 21 year old Gregory Rees, 35 year old Ronald Stuckey jr. and 47 year old Ronald l Burgett argued while in Burgett’s residence. The disagreement escalated into a physical altercation in which all three were suffered minor injuries. Stuckey is accused of damaging a kitchen cabinet door and the wooden landing on an outside porch was also damaged. Both Rees and Burgett are charged with harassment while Stuckey is charged with criminal mischief.

A burglary at a Galeton home overnight Sunday into Monday is being investigated by state police here. Thieves took an XBox, Playstation Portable, about 50 Xbox games, an XM radio and silver watch from the residence of Vaugh Kenny on West School Street. The stolen items are valued at $2450.

It’s finally here. Primary election day in Pennsylvania and “all eyes are focused” on the Democratic Presidential primary which could be pivotal in deciding whether Hilliary Clinton or Barack Obama will face off with Republican John McCain in November. While the presidential primary has generated a lot of interest, here in the WFRM listening area the congressional primaries have also piqued the interest of voters. Earlier this year, Congressman John Peterson, a Republican, announced he is retiring and would not seek re-election. That set the stage for a wide-open primary. Nine Republicans are competing for their party’s nomination while three Democrats are competing for theirs. With so many candidates, it could come down to money spent, endorsements, geography or whim. Republicans Derek Walker and Matt Shaner have thrown the most mud and money. Jeff Stroehmann contributed an amount of personal money and is likely banking on his well-known family name. Voters have been bombarded with radio and tv advertisng, newspaper ads and direct mail pieces. Walker is from Clearfield County, Shaner and Glen Thompson Jr. and Chris Exarchos are all from Centre County. Stroehmann is from Lycoming County. Lou Radkowski is from Elk County. Keith Richardson and John Stroup are from Clarion, and John Krupa is from Pine Township near Lock Haven. On the Democratic side, Bill Cahir is from Bellefonte, Mark McCracken is from Clearfield County and Richard Vilello is from Lock Haven. Peterson has tapped Thompson as the candidate he would like to see replace him in Washington. Senator Joe Scarnati has endorsed Walker and Potter County Commissioners Doug Morley and Paul Heimel have endorsed Stroehmann. On the Democratic side, Gov. Ed Rendell is among officials endorsing Vilello. So, with such a large field of candidates, it’s all up for grabs. The district is the second largest east of the Mississipi. There are other races. Statewide, three Democrats are seeking nomination for state treasurer while the Republican candidate is unopposed. Polls are open until 8:00 tonight.

State police at Kane say a Hazel Hurst driver is being cited for following too closely after a rear-end collision Saturday afternoon on Route 6 in Wetmore Township. Authorities say Lisa Luff failed to see that Shelly Maybury of Mt. Jewett had stopped for a turning vehicle and allowed her Ford Escort to run into the back of Maybury’s Dodge Stratus while both were headed East. Maybury was taken to Kane Community Hospital for treatment.

The state police fire marshal is investigating a blaze which destroyed two houses in Oswayo Saturday morning and damaged another across the street. Some 50 volunteers from Shinglehouse, Coudersport, Whitesville, Genesee and Portville battled the blaze at the home of Joe and Pat Miller for several hours. A vacant house next door also owned by the Millers was leveled by the blaze and a house across the street was damaged by heat and burning debris fanned by stiff winds. There were no injuries.

Meanwhile a wildfire blackened some 3200 acres this past weekend in Tioga and Lycoming Counties. Most of the fire was in Tioga County. No injuries have been reported. The fire was first reported Saturday morning near Cedar Run. the blaze was brought under control Sunday afternoon after rain soaked the region. A cause is still under investigation.

Both drivers were hurt in a rear-end collision Friday afternoon on Route 6 a half mile west of Coudersport Borough. State police said the collision occurred when David Burrows of Eldred became distracted and allowed his Ford Van to run into the back of a pick up truck driven by John Wilson of Coudersport as they were traveling west. Both drivers were taken to Charles Cole hospital for treatment of moderate injuries for Wilson and minor injuries for Burrows. Charges of careless driving are being filed against Burrows. That section of Route 6 was closed to traffic for a period of time following the crash.

Injuries were reported for a Bradford driver following a one-vehicle mishap Friday evening. Troopers at Kane say Matthew Anthony lost control of his Jeep Liberty Sport 4 x 4 when he swerved to avoid a deer. The SUV slid on dirt and gravel, crossed to the other side of the road and rolled onto its side after striking an embankment. Anthony was flown by helicopter to Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo for treatment of his injuries.

An Emporium man was hurt Friday afternoon when his bicycle was hit by a pick up truck on Old West Creek Road. State police said the accident occurred when 58 year old Michael Palmarchuck tried to pass 58 year old Michael Fiscus and the mirror on his Dodge Dakota struck the bicycle. Fiscus was taken to a nearby hospital by Emporium ambulance. Police said he was wearing a helmet at the time. Summary traffic violations are pending against Palmarchuck.

A Port Allegany motorcyclist is facing numerous charges after causing a high speed chase on Route 6 in Roulette and Liberty Townships Saturday afternoon. State police say 34 year old Joseph Avilez was clocked doing more than 130 miles per hour before being stopped, safely, at the intersection of Routes 6 and 155 in Port Allegany. He’s being charged with fleeing and eluding police, reckless endangerment and a variety of summary traffic violation,

Harassment charges have been filed against 19 year old Paul Bethlehem of Harrison Valley following a domestic violence incident allegedly taking place last Thursday afternoon. Troopers claim Bethlehem twisted the arm of his sister, Virginia Doucette and bent back the fingers of his mother Anne Chaffee during an argument at their home on the Harrison Fox Hill Road.

State police here are investigating a criminal trespass, scattering of rubbish, and dangerous burning incident taking place sometime Friday in a Grassy area between Dennis Hill and Dodge Hollow Roads in Harrison township. Unknown persons dumped several items of household waste and land owned by Marlin Cady and set fire to it causing damage to the grassy area surrounding the dump site.

State police locally have charged 24 year old Jessica Williams of Galeton with harassment and disorderly conduct for an incident allegedly taking place Tuesday night at the Perma Stone Inn in Pike Township. Authorities claim that a fight broke out between Williams and 38 year old Tracy Crawford during which Williams shoved and punched Crawford causing minor injuries. She’s also accused of damaging his vehicle to the tune of $450.00.

Troopers at Emporium have charged Eric Gavalock of that town with disorderly conduct in connection to an incident allegedly taking place Monday afternoon on Old West Creek Road. He’s accused of yelling obscenities toward Ellen Griffith.

State police at Mansfield are looking for a car stolen from along Elmer’s Lane in Shippen Township earlier this month. The 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 belonged to Richard Borden of Middlebury Center. It’s described as being teal green in color with a pinkish-purple pinstripe on the side. It has no license plate attached, has a cracked windshield, minor damage to the rear spoiler and mismatched tires. Anyone who sees the car is asked to call state police at 570-662-2151.

The Rendell Administration yesterday announced the awarding of $12 million in grantsto protect natural resources and open space. The funding comes from DCNR’s Natural Resources Keystone ’93 and Growing Greener I and II programs and includes $150,000 to Potter County to support the Pennsylvania Wilds Planning Team and $100,000 for the North Central Greenways and Open Space Plan in the Pennsylvania Wilds.

The National Weather Service is advising that dry conditions are expected to continue through the weekend, creating a danger for wildfires even though winds are not expected to reach the criteria at this time, the danger will increase until a good soaking occurs. Meanwhile, area fire departments are asking residents and visitors alike to be careful with outdoor fires until the danger passes.

The arrival of spring has brought about increased activity at the Coudersport Arboretum. Dick Buchanan, a member of the committee reported at Tuesday’s meeting of the Coudersport Area Chamber of Commerce that many projects are already underway or will begin within a few days. County Commissioner Susan Kefover worked with the Redevelopment Authority to obtain a $10,000 Community Development Block Grant through Sen. Joe Scarnati and Rep. Marty Causer to be used at the park. Sheetz Corporation recently donated $2,000 toward the arboretum. Buchanan said Names will be placed on a memorial wall soon, shrubs will be added and a path will be put into place following foot flow. Buchanan invited interested persons to attend the next Arboretum Committee meeting to be held at 5:30 p.m. April 23 at the Depot. He told the group, the project is designed to be on-going with improvements being made each season.

The warmer weather also brings out the potential for dog attacks on letter carriers. Coudersport Postmaster Steve Sevinsky has asked WFRM to remind dog owners that they can be held liable for all medical expenses and other costs when a dog attacks a letter carrier. Sevinsky says more than 3,000 letter carriers sustained OSHA –recordable dog bites while delivering mail last year, adding that the Postal Service is not anti-dog, but rather pro-responsibility.

The Potter County Commissioners were expected to receive a final report today from LaBella and Associates, the architectural firm they hired to examine the space available in the Gunzburger Annex, the former Adelphia School Building. After closing it’s Coudersport operations, Time-Warner deeded the building to Potter County prior to the current board of commissioners taking office. The previous board had accepted the building with the apparent intention of locating county and human services offices in the Main Street location. However, when questioned by WFRM at some meetings earlier this year, the new board seemed to back away from the plan but said they would wait for a report from the architects. Chairman Doug Morley told WFRM earlier this week, that despite rumors, no plans had been made about usage until the board had a chance to review the recommendations.

A resolution directing the state House Budget and Finance Committee to examine the existing white-tailed deer management program in Pennsylvania was unanimously adopted last week. Rep. Martin Causer who represents Potter, Cameron and McKean Counties was among those lawmakers expressing pleasure that the state is taking the health of such an important natural resource seriously. Causer says an out-of state firm will be brought in to study the Pennsylvania deer herd.

Speaking of the Game Commission, candidates interested in representing the north central counties in District 3 on the Game Commission’s board of directors are invited to submit their applications. District 3 includes Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, Potter and counties. Russell E. Schleiden, of Centre Hall, Centre County, currently represents District 3. His term expires in November.Commissioners serve eight-year terms without compensation. They receive travel reimbursement and are not eligible for reappointment. Individuals interested in applying should send a résumé and detailed cover letter explaining their desire to serve to Robb Miller, Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and Conservation, Rachel Carson State Office Building, 400 Market St., 7^th Floor, P.O. Box 8767, Harrisburg, Pa 17105-8767. Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, May 14.

An Emporium driver reportedly left the scene of a one-vehicle crash Monday night without notifying authorities. State police say 48 year old Dennis Weber was located at his home sometime after his Toyota truck went off of Route 46 near Betula in Norwich township and struck a brick embankment. The truck had to be towed from the scene and the Crosby Volunteer Fire Department assisted state police.

Coudersport-based state police are investigating an apparent cruelty to animals incident last week in Eulalia Township. A pony owned by Kimberlyn Kightlinger died a couple of days after becoming ill and authorities believe the animal’s food may have been poisoned. The pony was valued at $2,000 and anyone with information is asked to contact the local barracks at 274-8690.

Joseph Mahoney, 47 of Galeton is being charged with hit and run following a crash taking place at about 8:00 o’clock last Thursday morning. Troopers said Mahoney’s westbound Subaru Outback went off the south berm on the West Branch road, traveled down a 35 foot embankment and struck a tree where it came to rest. Mahoney allegedly fled the scene without notifying authorities. Galeton Fire and Ambulance and Germania Fire Department assisted state police at the scene.

A couple of other hit and runs remain under investigation. Sometime between 1:00 and 10:00 a.m. Sunday, a northbound vehicle went off of the First Fork Road in Sylvania Township and stuck two steel posts with reflectors and a pine tree on property owned by Blaine Miller of Austin. And an unknown vehicle damaged the drivers side rear quarter panel and taillight on a 2004 Pewter-colored Chevy Silverado owned by James Czepiel of Austin while it was parked in the lot of the Old Tannery Inn in Sylvania Township.

A Port Allegany man, wanted in North Carolina, was taken into custody early Sunday morning by state police here. Troopers say they stopped 28 year old Thomas Sherwood on Route 6 near Erway’s Farm in Eulalia Township for suspected DUI when they observed him making several moving violations. While processing Sherwood, officers discovered he is wanted in North Carolina for “absconding probation and parole.” After being arraigned before District Judge Annette Easton, Sherwood was committed to the Potter County jail in lieu of $52,000 bail.

DUI and drug law violation charges are being filed against 47year old Douglas Phillips of Olean after troopers locally came upon his truck early Sunday morning on Route 6 a half mile west of West Main Street in Roulette Township. Troopers said Phillips was behind the wheel of his Chevy Silverado when it got stuck in the mud along the south berm. He was taken to Charles Cole Hospital for chemical testing and authorities allegedly found suspected marijuana in his jacket.

The theft of some fishing equipment from a SUV parked at the Cross Fork Inn parking lot in Stewardson Township Friday night is under investigation by state police here. Thieves forced open the rear hatch on a Mercury Mountaineer owned by David Kephpart of Portage, PA and made off with five Orvis 8 ft. fly rods with Orvis Reels attached, an All Star medium action spin reel synergy reel, and four Bass Pro-shop rods and reels valued at a total of $2,6663. Damage to the vehicle is estimated to be $800.

And, a theft from an Abbott Township residence last week is also under investigation. Thieves took two Masonic rings valued at $800 and two guns valued at $1500 from the home of Edward Balch on the Ridge Road.

A Coudersport woman was taken to Charles Cole Hospital Saturday morning following a collision at the intersection of Oak and Borie Street. According to Coudersport Borough Police Chief Lee Gross, Debra Snyder was traveling north on Borie when she failed to stop at the posted intersection and allowed her car to collide with a car driven by Gary Duell also of Coudersport. The intersection has a temporary stop sign due to the detour now in place while the Mike Franklin/Route 6 Bridge near the Consistory is being replaced. Coudersport Volunteer Emergency Services responded to the scene.

Four Kane-area teenagers received minor injuries in a one-vehicle crash Saturday night on Spring Street in Wetmore Township. State police said a 2000 Oldsmobile Alero driven by 18 year old Angela Salerno went off the road while negotiating a left curve, and struck a yellow railroad crossing sign and a large pipe causing disabling damage. Authorities said none of the four was wearing a seatbelt but their injuries did not require transportation to a hospital. Salerno is being cited for failing to drive at a safe speed and seatbelt violations.

State police at Kane have charged two New York State residents with theft by unlawful taking for allegedly stealing about 40 pounds of copper wire from the railroad tracks off of the Gardeau Road about two miles south of the Potter County line in Norwich Township McKean County just before 1:00 p.m. Friday. Authorities say 26 year old Nicholas Wilber of Olean and 24 year old Travis Mabee of Hinsdale were observed by a witness cutting small sections of wire belonging to the Western NY and PA Railroad and rolling it into small bundles. The witness contacted state police at Emporium and provided a description of the suspect’s and their vehicle. When troopers arrived on the scene, they allegedly found the suspects in Wilber’s car with numerous sections of copper wire and tools in the back seat. They were arraigned before on-call District Judge William Todd on charges of conspiracy, receiving stolen property and criminal mischief as well as theft.

In recent Potter County Court action, 21 year old Jeff Myers of Coudersport was sentenced for DUI, possession of marijuana with intent to deliver, and speeding. Judge John Leete ordered Myers to spend three to 23-/2 months in jail; perform 50 hours of community service and pay a $525 fine. According to Potter County DA Dawn Fink, Myers was arrested last May 17 who heard a loud crash on South Main as they were leaving the police station. Arriving on the scene, officers found Myers was behind the wheel of a vehicle which had struck a utility pole. He exhibited signs of being under the influence and they found a gun, a large plastic bag containing a substantial amount of marijuana, pill bottle containing $259 in cash, a plastic baggie containing 12 live rounds for the gun, a box of sandwich bags, pipe cleaner, a screen for a pipe, roach clip and loose marijuana stems and seeds.

The Great PA Clean-up campaign will be held statewide this coming Saturday. Volunteers are needed to help pick up litter along state highways throughout the Clearfield District. Anyone interested in helping in Potter or Cameron Counties is asked to call the Potter County PennDot office at 274-9181.

Coudersport-based state police have begun to release bits of information regarding the death Sunday night of 50 year Patricia Blouse of Cross Fork. Authorities say following an autopsy conducted by the Erie County Coroner’s office, the preliminary cause of death was due to hypothermia which developed by being immersed in Cross Fork Creek and was likely worsened because of acute alcohol intoxication. Toxicology testing is still pending and no Blood Alcohol Content has been determined until the screening has been completed. Potter County Coroner Kevin Dusenbury told WFRM yesterday that it might be several weeks before those results are known. In their most recent news release, troopers said Blouse’s boyfriend, 55 year old James Gelzenlichter was also taken from the scene and transported by ambulance to the Bucktail Medical Center in Renovo where he was treated for hypothermic-like conditions. The first two news releases, one advising media not to call the barracks about the investigation, made no mention of another person being involved. There has also been no confirmation by authorities that an ATV was involved although that report surfaced Monday. It is believed that Blouse “entered” the water between 8:00 and 11:15 p.m. Sunday. She was pronounced dead a couple of hours later by Coroner Dusenbury. A Coudersport man has been jailed in lieu of $15,000 bail on numerous charges following an alleged domestic violence incident Sunday morning at his home on Dwight Street. State police claim 21 year old Dennis Leber choked 20 year old Felecia Stevens on multiple occasions and made life threatening statements toward her and her family. When police were taking him into custody, they found him to be in possession of prohibited metal knuckles. He was arraigned before on-call District Judge Delores Bristol on charges of terroristic threats, simple assault and prohibited offensive weapons. While investigating the incident, troopers recovered a tobacco grinder novelty item which they say Leber admitted stealing from the Acorn Market in Galeton late last month.

A Roulette driver escaped injury in a one-vehicle mishap late Monday night on the Gardeau Road in Shippen township, Cameron County. Troopers said Adam Sallade was headed south when his 2000 Saturn went off the road and the right front tire got caught on a railroad track causing the car to slide sideways before coming to rest on the west side of the road. Sallade was wearing a seatbelt at the time, according to police.

Emporium-based have charged 54 year old Michele Myers of that town with scattering rubbish. Authorities say late Tuesday night, Myers deposited two garbage bags full of trash at a dirt pull off area along Route 120 about four miles east of Emporium in Lumber Township.

Coudersport Volunteer firefighters were summoned this afternoon to quell a wildfire near the intersection OF Dutch Hill Road and Route 872 south of town. No further information was available at news time.

State police here have charged 19 year old Christopher Bice with violating state drug laws and corrupting the morals of a minor. Troopers say they got a tip that controlled substances and drug paraphernalia were in Bice’s 1997 Silverado. After obtaining a search warrant, police allegedly found four baggies containing marijuana, a marijuana pipe and related paraphernalia in the truck. And, they say A 17 year old boy made a statement that Bice had supplied him with pot this past March 9 and 10 .

The theft of some 400 feet of copper tubing and wiring from a warehouse on Main Street, across from the Genesee Post Office is under investigation by state police here. The stolen property is valued at about $4,000 and belonged to Adam Chapman of Wellsville. The theft took place sometime since the first of the year.

Capt. David Neal, Troop Commander of Troop C based in Punxsutawney says the troop has investigated 17 traffic fatalities already this year and 12 of the 17 victims were not wearing seatbelts. Capt. Neal says evidence was found at the crashes which lead investigators to believe that use of a seat belt would have prevented death in many of those cases. He adds that it has been a long-standing challenge to increase the use of seat belts but officers continuing to see crash after crash where motorists fail to buckle up. He says it has been proven the safest place to be if you are involved in A crash is inside your vehicle, secured to the seat. If you are not secured in the vehicle you will be in danger of hitting hard areas inside or being ejected partially or completely from the vehicle. Troop C includes McKean and Elk Counties.

Mansfield-based state police are charging a Stony Fork motorcyclist with DUI. Troopers say Eugene Storley lost control of his westbound cycle Tuesday night on Route 6 near the Marsh Creek Baptist Church when it hit gravel. The machine laid down on its left side, after going off the road, and ejected Storley and a passenger. The passenger was flown by helicopter to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre but police did not release the name. Storley was treated at Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro.

Coudersport-based state police still have not released any more information about the death of 50 year old Patricia Blouse of Cross Fork Sunday night. Monday afternoon troopers released a statement that Blouse had entered the Cross Fork Creek Sunday night but the cause of death was pending completion of an autopsy. Authorities also instructed area media to refrain from contacting the barracks, saying that more details would be released when they become available. As of late Wednesday afternoon, no further details were forthcoming.

Troopers, however did release overnight, details about a collision taking place last Wednesday on Route 6 in Pike Township. Police say both Galeton drivers involved are being charged with summary traffic offenses. The collision occurred when 85 year old Helen Lazorchak stopped her westbound Mitsubishi Galant on the double yellow line, preparing to make a left turn. An eastbound Mitsubishi Eclipse driven by Travis Main struck the Lazorchak SUV. Neither driver was hurt but their vehicles had to be towed from the scene. Lazorchak is being charged with failing to obey traffic laws regarding left turns and Main is being charged with failing to drive at a safe speed.

A burglary at a Kane-area home Tuesday between 5:15 a.m. and 4:10 p.m. is being probed by state police there. Thieves broke a window at the rear of the Todd Bray residence on Walnut Street in Wetmore township and made off with eight Play Station 2 Video Games and three audio cd’s while causing $300 in damage.

State police here have charged 24 year old Jacob Woodard of Coudersport with scattering rubbish. Authorities claim Woodard, over the winter months, deposited various items of household waste, several of which contained his name and address over an embankment in a wooded area along a pull-off on Dutch Hill Road in Eulalia township. The land is owned by R. T. McCaigue of Coudersport. The trash was discovered earlier this week by a curious pedestrian who reported it to police.

Two area entities have contributed to a new truck which will haul the Pennsylvania Forest Products Association WoodMobile, a traveling classroom that helps to educate elementary and middle school students about Pennsylvania’s $17 billion hardwoods activities by using hands-on activities. The WoodMobile began it’s sixth season yesterday and expects to reach one million visitors next year. Ram Forest Products in Ceres, McKean County and the Penn York Lumbermen’s Club in Cameron County were among a handful of businesses and groups making a donation.

Voters who are confused about which candidate to support in the upcoming 5^th Congressional District Primary have help from two sources .Pennsylvania Cable Network will begin its political coverage with a LIVE airing of the 5th Congressional District Republican Forum from the Rocky Grove Fire Hall in Franklin beginning at 7:30 p.m. All nine candidates vying for the congressional seat that is now held by Rep. John Peterson (R-PA) are expected to be in attendance. The event, which is sponsored by the Venango County Republican Committee, will feature a moderated question-and-answer format. PCN will re-air the forum on Saturday, April 12 at 2:00 p.m.

The 5th Congressional District Democratic Forum will air on PCN at 9:00 p.m. following the live event in Franklin. The Democratic Forum taped April 10 at the DuBois campus of Penn State University will feature all three democratic candidates. Representatives from three local DuBois news media services will act as moderators for the event and will author the questions of the candidates. The event is sponsored by the City of DuBois Democratic Committee. PCN will re-air the forum beginning at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 12.

All 12 candidates are running to represent the state's 5^th Congressional District which encompasses a 17-county area. The district is the second largest Congressional District east of the Mississippi. PCN is found on Channel 22 locally. Those voters who don’t have cable, but have internet access can go to wpsu.org. Scroll down to the right corner of the home page. Click on “Vote ’08 – Race for the 5^th” to go to the site for information about each candidate.

State police here are continuing their investigation into the death of 50 year old Patricia Blouse of Cross Fork Sunday night. In a brief news release issued yesterday afternoon, troopers said 50 year old Patricia blouse went inot the cross Fork Creek about a half mile north of Route 144 near Cross Fork between 8:00 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. The cause of death has not been determined pending an autopsy to be conducted today in Erie. Police instructed media to refrain from calling them promising to release more information as it becomes available. However, they did not indicate if the death was related to a report of an ATV fatality in the Cross fork area Sunday night with a female victim. A Shinglehouse teenager was hurt Sunday night in a one-vehicle crash on Route 44 about a half mouth south of the Clara Road in Hebron Township. State police said Matthew Duell was headed home just before midnight when he nodded off causing his Mitsubishi Montero to go off the road, strike an embankment and overturn. Duell was transported by Mercy Flight to Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo where he was kept overnight for treatment of minor injuries.

DUI charges are pending against 53 year old John Sandrovich of Emporium following a one-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon on Route 46 in Shippen Township, Cameron County. State police said Sandrovich was headed south when his Buick sedan failed to negotiate a left hand curve, drifted off the road and traveled into a ditch for about 300 feet before it struck a cement culvert. The car continued on for another 180 feet before coming to rest in the ditch.

Coudersport Borough Police Chief Lee Gross has asked WFRM to let listeners know there is another phone scam going on in the area targeting social security recipients. Chief Gross reminds residents to not give out your personal information, such as a social security number, bank account number or other personal information over the phone. He says, “Remember, normally, if it’s free, it will usually cost you in the end.”

In regional news, 28 year old Christopher Koch of Liberty pleaded not guility in a preliminary hearing in Tioga County yesterday to a charge of attempted robbery and possession of an instrument of a crime. State police at Mansfield say Koch arrived at the Citizens and Northern Bank on Main Street in Liberty, March 13 at about 11:40 a.m .and waited inside his vehicle. At 12:01 p.m., a minute after the bank closed for the day, Koch got out of his vehicle wearing an orange ski mask and carrying a shotgun. When he could not get inside, he took off in his vehicle, but bank employees were able to copy down the registration number and summoned police. The vehicle was located at Koch’s residence on Mountain Top Road and the gun, ski mask and gloves were also found there by police who took the suspect into custody. Unable to post $50,000 bail Koch was returned to the Tioga County Jail after the hearing.

The former Adelphia headquarters on South Main Street here in Coudersport has apparently been sold for a second time. Published reports indicate Klek Development of Lincolnshire, Illinois was the successful bidder in the latest online auction conducted by LFC. The real estate development company bid $3.6 million for the 72,000 square foot building dubbed the “Mauseoleum” or “Taj Mahal” by locals. The building was put back on the auction block after the successful bidder defaulted.

Kane-based state police are looking for a tan Winnebago involved in a hit and run Friday afternoon on Route 219 near Meade Run Road in Hamlin Township. Authorities say the just after entering a no-passing zone at the end of a three-lane highway, the1985 Winnebago sideswiped a tractor-trailer driven by James Pruder of Brantford, on and continued south without stopping. Troopers believe it may have had New York State plates with a registration number of ARW9462 and would have damage to the to the passenger side.

A Roulette man escaped injury last Tuesday in a one-vehicle crash on Route 6 in Roulette Township. State police said Paul Gerhart lost control of his westbound Pontiac Sunbird when he swerved to avoid a low-flying turkey which took off from the southern berm. The compact crossed to the other side of the road and hit four metal fence posts and had to be towed from the scene. Gerhart is being charged for failing to drive at a safe speed.

An 18 year old Ulysses resident has been committed to the Potter County jail in lieu of $75,000 bail after being picked up Friday on a warrant from New York State. Douglas Reid is wanted by Wellsville, NY based state police on charges of endangering the welfare of a child and is now awaiting extradition.

A 17 year old Ulysses boy and a 17 old Coudersport girl are being charged in juvenile court for theft, forgery, receiving stolen property and criminal conspiracy. Troopers allege that when they pulled a car over for DUI earlier this mot\nth, they found the pair to be in possession of a check book belonging to Kathleen Sturdevant of Ulysses and a forged check made out to the boy in the amount of $752.00. Sturdevant did not suffer a financial loss because the check was not cashed.

A burglary at a Genesee residence is being investigated by state police here. Thieves took some prescription medicine and about $70 in assorted change and currency from the home of Ashley Aldrich on Academy Street between 7:00 and 11:00 p.m. last Friday.

Emporium District Justice Alvin Brown last week dismissed second degree murder charges against 28 year old Shawna Coffman of Sinnemahoning. She and her husband, 32 year old Michael Coffman were arrested in connection with the New Year’s death 0f 38 year old Melissa Marshall of Emporium. The Coffmans attended a party at Marshall’s home and witnesses told police that Shawna Coffman crushed up several narcotic pills and gave them to Marashall who then snorted the drugs. She was found the next day unresponsive. Judge Brown ordered Shawna Coffman held on charges of drug delivery resulting in death, possession, manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance and theft by unlawful talking. Unable to post $100,000 bail, Coffman was returned to the Tioga County Prison. Her husband, was waived his case into court and was released after his bail was reduced from $100,000 to $10,000

A Bradford woman, just hours after being released from jail died in a fiery crash early Thursday morning on Route 59 in Keating Township outside of Smethport. State police said 20 year old Amanda Palmer was about two miles east of Route 646 when her ’97 Buick Skylark crossed to the other side of the road and struck a large bolder. Palmer was partially ejected from the car which burst into flames shortly after impact. She was pronounced dead at the scene by McKean County Coroner Mike Cahill. Several emergency departments responded to the scene. Route 59 near Ormsby was closed to traffic for a couple of hours. Palmer had been jailed Wednesday on charge of reckless endangerment when police found her four month old son locked in her car while she shopped at the Bradford Wal-Mart. Palmer was born in Coudersport and her parents formerly resided here.

The investigation is continuing into a fire in Brockway Thursday which claimed the lives of ten people. State police say the investigation so far indicates the fire family dwelling to be suspicious in nature and is not related to any utilities connected to the single family dwelling. Two people were able to escape the burning structure. Authorities say additional information will be released once the investigation is completed.

Meanwhile, Coudersport Fire Chief Andy Dubots is asking residents and visitors alike to exercise caution when burning outdoors on dry and windy days following a wildfire in the borough Thursday afternoon. A spokesman for the local department said the blaze on Peet Street started when a trash fire got away from a local resident and quickly spread to a nearby grassy field. Even though several houses were threatened, firefighters were able to contain flames to the field itself. All units were back in service about a half hour after the 3:10 p.m. call. There were no injuries.

State police here are continuing their probe of a burglary taking place early yesterday in Rohrer’s Trailer Court on Railroad Avenue in the village of Roulette. An unknown male entered the home of Cheryl Card through an unlocked door. When confronted by Card, the intruder left, and got into the passenger side of a dark blue or black pick-up which was driven away by an accomplice. Anyone with information is asked to contact the local barracks at 274-8690.

PennDot says the second construction season for the Galeton project will begin on Monday. Work last year included the demolition of seven buildings, drainage improvements, construction of retaining walls, sidewalk improvements and landscaping. This season’s work will include roadway widening and paving, street lighting, installation of a new traffic signal, sidewalk improvements, and landscaping. Detours will be in effect until the project is completed. A. L. Blades & Sons, Inc. of Hornell is the contractor for the $3.8 million job.

Pennsylvania veterans who served in the Persian Gulf War in 1990-91 are encouraged to apply for a $75 a month bonus up to $525 made possible by the general assembly and Potter County Director of Veterans Affairs, Joe Becker, has received
applications for the bonus payment for members and former members of the
Armed Forces who served in the Persian Gulf Conflict, (August 15, 1990
through August 30, 1991) and were Pennsylvania residents at the time of
service. Applications must be submitted with certified copies of the Veterans DD214. Becker is an accredited representative of the Pennsylvania Department of
Military and Veteran Affairs and has received training to assist veterans in
applying for benefits. He is in the Potter County Courthouse and Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 AM-3 PM, no appointment is necessary. Individuals that are not available duringthose periods may call and make appointments for times more suitable to
them. The telephone number is 274 8290 ext 210.

A Derrick City driver was hurt Wednesday morning in a crash on at the intersection of Route 59 and 219 in Lafayette Township, McKean county. State police said 58 year old James Bogdan apparently suffered a medical condition which caused him to lose control of oh his westbound 2004 Nissan X-Terra. The SUV traveled off the road, struck a traffic sign, came back onto the highway continuing west, on Route 59, then crossed Route 219 and crashed into Mick’s Mart. Flying debris from the collision damaged a 1992 Oldsmobile sedan owned by Crystal Eschrick of Lewis Run. Bogdan was flown to Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo for treatment of unknown injuries.

Troopers here are probing a couple of recent hit and runs. At about 1:30 Sunday morning, an unknown northbound vehicle went off of Route 872 about 300 feet north of the Old Tannery Inn in Sylvania Township and struck a 2006 Pontiac GT owned by Angela Jeffers of Ridgway and a wooden pole holding four mailboxes. Then, at about 3:00 a.m. Tuesday, an eastbound car struck a wooden mailbox post belonging to Dale Davis at the intersection of Main Street and Fishing Creek Road extension in the village of Roulette. The car is believed to be a silver passenger car with minor damage to the passenger side and mirror. Both drivers left the scene without notifying property owners or police. Anyone with information about either incident is asked to call state police at 274-8690.

Coudersport based state police overnight released details about a collision taking place Sunday afternoon on the Phoenix Road in Pike Township. Authorities say 20 year old Alexander Bailey made a left turn, after stopping at a stop sign, to travel south onto Phoenix Road failing to yield to an approaching Chevy Lumina driven by Courtney Gill of Galeton. Apparently both drivers escaped injury however Bailey is being cited for failing to obey stop and yield signs.

Both people involved in a fight Sunday afternoon at 319 West Branch Dingman Run Road in Eulalia Township are being cited by state police for disorderly conduct. Police explain that the altercation erupted when 34 year old Benjamin Keech of Port Allegany accompanied his girlfriend to the home of Ray Pelchy to pick up her children from her ex-husband. Upon their arrival, Keech and Pelchy became involved in a physical altercation.

In recent Potter County Court action, 30 year old Denise Windsor of Smethport was sentenced to a jail term of two to 23-1/2 months; ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and perform 50 hours of community service for criminal use of communication facility and corruption of minors. According to Potter County District Attorney Dawn Fink, during the spring and summer of 2006, Windsor emailed obscene pictures of herself to a 16 year old Shinglehouse boy while the two were involved in chat room conversations discussing graphic details of sexual act. The boy’s mother notified authorities when she became aware of the relationship.

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Michael DiBerardinis this week announced that the department is issuing a position on natural gas development on state forestlands that favors deep and medium drilling for future lease sales.
Later this year, DCNR intends to accept competitive bids for leases
totaling 75,000 acres, less than 4 percent, of state forestlands for gas
extraction to respond to the increased interest in the Marcellus Shale
formation and the natural gas reserves many believe it contains.
The department's position would allow limited shallow drilling if gas is
found during the development of deeper gas fields, or on a case-by-case
basis. The Marcellus Shale formation is a deep resource thought to contain
large quantities of natural gas, stretching from New York through
Pennsylvania and into West Virginia. In Pennsylvania, the formation
reaches the northern tier as far east as the Scranton area and as far
south and west as Somerset County and the Pittsburgh area. New
technology has made it possible to recover the hard-to-reach fuel. There has been gas drilling activity on state forestlands since 1947.
Currently, about 207,000 acres of the 2.1-million-acre state forest are
being leased for gas production, with about 650 wells in place. Natural gas drilling is currently underway on private property in several locations in the WFRM listening area.

After seven years of demolition, construction and intensive testing and permitting procedures, the new dam at Lyman Run State Park will begin retaining water, refilling the lake and clearing the way for its reemergence as Potter County's leading tourist
attraction.” Filling of the new dam will begin on Monday," Conservation and Natural
Resources Secretary Michael DiBerardinis said yesterday. Visitors totaled more than 130,000 in1999 when Lyman Run's beach, lake and fishing opportunities made itPotter County's largest tourist destination. Water retention and the eventual filling of the lake basin must follow a closely regulated dam refilling plan, which was submitted by DCNR and approved by the Department of Environmental Protection. The schedule
provides for the lake to be filled to pre-defined depths every 10-days,
which will allow dam conditions to stabilize.Built in the early 1950s, the old dam at the 595-acre state park near Galeton had experienced seeps and leakage that required close monitoring almost since its construction. Safety concerns forced breaching and draining of the lake in April 2000.In April 2004, Allan A. Myers Inc. of Worcester began the nearly $17 million project to remove the old dam and spillway and construct the
new, 50-foot-high, 1,000-foot-long earthen dam and spillway. Hairline cracking in the concrete spillway required sealing before dam construction completion certification could be submitted and approved by DEP in December, at which time a fill permit was issued

The Department of Environmental Protection has fined the Ulysses Municipal Authority in Potter County $3,450 after the authority's certified sewage treatment plant operator was found to have improperly measured the chlorine levels discharged from the facility in September.According to DEP's Northcentral Regional Director Robert Yowell, the
error, which caused significant harm to downstream aquatic life, was
avoidable. Yowell said the pollution would never have occurred if the sewage treatment plant operator had been more aware of his improper actions. During a DEP inspection in September, the chlorine levels found in the treatment plant's discharge were nine times the level allowed by the facility's permit. The effluent enters a tributary to the Genesee River. Further investigation by the department found that the operator had been
using a free chlorine test instead of measuring the total amount of chlorine in the plant's discharge. Standard sampling protocol requires that a total chlorine test be used. Measuring free chlorine, as the operator was found to have done, only
provides a fractional account of how much chlorine is contained in the
effluent. Total chlorine is always greater than free chlorine. Because the free chlorine test was used, the operator added significantly more chlorine to the treatment plant's discharge than needed, causing pollution in the stream and causing the authority
greater expense than necessary. A study of the tributary done by a DEP biologist more than a month after the incident revealed significant damage to all aquatic life for a stretch of about 250 yards downstream of the plant's discharge. The fine will be paid to the Pennsylvania Clean Water Fund, which is used to help pay for cleanups across the state.

An Eldred driver received minor injuries in a crash Tuesday morning on King Street in that town. State police said James Hurrle was traveling west when he moved to the right to allow another vehicle to pass in the opposite direction. When he attempted to return to his lane, his Ford 150 struck a Jeep Wrangler parked to the north of the street.

An Austin man has been charged with harassment, public drunkenness, and disorderly conduct for an incident allegedly taking place Saturday night at the Two Mile Restaurant in Liberty Township, outside of Port Allegany. Troopers allege 38 year old Andrew Kuhn grabbed a victim’s hand and attempted to bend it to cause pain to the victim. While investigating, police say they found that Kuhn was disorderly and caused a disturbance while being publicly intoxicated which resulted in him being thrown out of the bar.

Christopher Johnson, 36, of Mt. Jewett has been committed to the McKean County Jail in lieu of $5,000 cash bail after being arraigned on charges of simple assault and harassment for a domestic violence incident allegedly taking place on King Road in Sergeant Township Sunday evening. Authorities claim Christopher Johnson threw computer components striking Shannon Johnson in the left knee with one of them during an argument. Christopher told police that Shannon had struck him in the head with a telephone but he declined to prosecute her.

A Port Allegany man is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on April 7 on charges of committing worker’s compensation fraud and theft by deception. Authorities assert that during April of 2006, 50 year old Charles Michael was receiving worker’s compensation benefits from Keystone Powdered Metals Co. for a work-related injury and went to work as a subcontractor for Keppel Stone Works without either business knowing about the other.

A criminal mischief at the UPS Building on Route 6 in Kane overnight Sunday is under investigation by state police there. Vandals damaged a metal UPS sign at the entrance to the parking lot between 11:00 p.m. Sunday and 3:00 a.m. Monday.

Reading a prepared statement at last week’s meeting, Potter County Commissioner Paul Heimel said the board continues to review and study the issue of wind turbines. Heimel said it is by far the most controversial issue facing the new board and an untold amount of hours have gone into research. He said, that’s why the board has not yet taken any action on the Planning Commission’s recommendations. Heimel added he will be going to the southern part of the state in the next few weeks on other county business and will do some first hand research on the subject while there.