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HEADLINES: Susky
Marks Sesquicentennial On Saturday, April 19, 2003, Susquehanna Depot Borough celebrated its 150th, or Sesquicentennial, birthday. American Legion Post 86’s Honor Guard began the proceedings by raising the flag in front of the boro building. After the flag raising, the ceremony continued inside, in the council room. Mary Jo Glover, Chair of the Sesquicentennial Commitee welcomed all, and introduced Rachel Ackley, who sang the Star Spangled Banner. Mrs. Glover gave a brief history of the boro, which was originally settled in the 1700’s, and known as Harmony or Pleasant Valley. When the Erie Railroad arrived in the 1800’s, the town prospered; the boro had been, she said, a very big part of railroad history. On April 19, 1853, the Borough of Susquehanna Depot was incorporated, taking its name from an Indian word meaning "crooked river." Mrs. Glover then introduced Rev. Kenneth Bitler, Pastor of the First Methodist Church of Susquehanna, who offered an opening prayer. Pictured is the American Legion Post 86 Honor Guard raising the flag in honor of Susquehanna Depot Borough’s Sesquicentennial. Pam Hennessey, Co-Chair of the committee, took the floor. It was an honor to be on the committee, she said, and "quite an experience." On behalf of herself and her husband, Richard, Mrs. Hennessey presented a time capsule to the boro, which was given to the care of Girl Scout Troop 497. Leader Kristen Potter and the troop will use the capsule in the Sesquicentennial parade, scheduled for July 19. It will be filled with present day items as well as photos and memorabilia from the planned celebration. After the parade, it will be buried in the garden at the boro building. "Hopefully," Mrs. Hennessey said, "two hundred years from now, they’ll dig it up." Susquehanna Mayor Roberta Kelly welcomed all to what she called "a proud day." And, she is proud to be part of more recent changes within the boro. "Our test of strength is that we’re still here, we’ve survived." She commended the committee members for their hard work on the Sesquicentennial project, and had the privilege of introducing Ira Reynolds, the boro’s eldest citizen at 101 years old. Mrs. Kelly gave a brief summary of Mr. Reynolds’ life; he was born January 2, 1902 in Luzerne, to Thomas and Cora Reynolds. He came to Susquehanna in 1926 to court Beatrice Smith. He worked for the Erie Railroad, and married Beatrice in 1928 in the Methodist Church. They lived together on Laurel Street, where he still resides. Mr. Reynolds joined the Boy Scouts in 1914, and is still associated with that organization (he helped found Pack 81). Over the years, he has received numerous local awards, and Mrs. Kelly was pleased to present him with a plaque on behalf of the boro. Mrs. Kelly related that a representative from the state Association of Boroughs had been scheduled to arrive from Harrisburg, to present a plaque to the boro, but as of the time of the proceedings he had not arrived. Mrs. Glover thanked the Sesquicentennial committee members; Pam Hennessey, Co-Chair; Sharon Glover, Secretary/Treasurer; Lenore Keyes, Historian; Todd Glover, Boro Council representative. Other members include Alice Evans, Toni Romanofski, Dick Hennessey, Steve Glover, Karyn Armitage, Mike Ryder, Randy Glover, Sigrid Reddon, Lou Parillo and Mary Ficarro. Entertainment was provided by Yesterday, a barbershop quartet comprised of members from Montrose, Brackney, Vestal, and Apalachin. Mrs. Glover concluded with special thanks to Lou Parrillo; his hard work and dedication soliciting ads for a Sesquicentennial memorabilia book had enabled the committee to lower the selling price. Refreshments were served, donated by the Hennesseys and Linda Schell for the occasion. Operation
Support Freedom Rally Held Several hundred Susquehanna area residents gathered on the evening of April 19, in the Shops Plaza, to show support for our military personnel, whether they be stateside or overseas. Yellow ribbons adorned the trees surrounding the Veterans Service Board as well as the clothing of many of the attendees. Items to be sent to troops serving in the Iraq war were collected, as well as monetary donations to pay for shipping. Pictured (l-r) are: Susquehanna Boro Council President Ron Whitehead, Cal Arthur (sound), Ward Stanford (singing our national anthem), St. John’s Church folk group. Ron Whitehead, president of the Susquehanna Borough Council acted as emcee. He introduced the American Legion Post 86 Honor Guard and five local students, each of whom held a flag representing each branch of our country’s armed forces. Ward Stanford sang the Star Spangled Banner, followed by St. John’s Church folk group. Guest speakers included County Commissioner Lee Smith; Susquehanna Borough Mayor Roberta Kelly; Legion Post 86 Commander Peter Janicelli, who presented a plaque of appreciation, on behalf of local communities, to CE1 Michael C. Fields (Seabees); Jesse Gow, American Legion Post 86; Richard Norris, American Legion Post 86 SAL; Linda Norris, American Legion Post 86 Auxiliary; Rev. Kenneth Bitler, Susquehanna United Methodist Church; Ron Beavan, Oakland Borough Council President; Matt Roll, Lanesboro Community Church. Mr. Stanford, accompanied by Carol Jackson on guitar, sang "I’m Proud to be an American." Mr. Whitehead thanked the Susquehanna Fire Department and the Thompson Hose Company for participation, and commended the rally’s organizers, Candy Kuiper and Chris Davis. The rally closed with a candlelight ceremony. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Someone damaged the aluminum siding of Robert Smith's trailer at Montrose Terrace Park, Bridgewater Township, sometime between 7:00 a.m. on April 19 and 12:30 p.m. on April 22. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the State Police - Gibson, at 570-465-3154. CRASH - HIT & RUN An investigation revealed that Joseph Towner, 41, Susquehanna, struck a parked car at Schneider's Market, Susquehanna Depot, on April 17 at 3:10 p.m.. According to the police report, Towner faces charges in this crash. TRAFFIC CRASH Kimberly Miller, 20, Montrose, failed to yield at a stop sign while attempting to cross State Route 29 from State Route 2053 to Meshoppen Creek Rd., Bridgewater Township, and was struck by Sharon Bergman, 54, Montrose. The incident occurred on April 8 at 3:50, and there were no reported injuries. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On April 18 at an undetermined time, someone egged Shirley Pabst's Ford Probe and Toyota Highlander, at her residence on State Route 29, Franklin Township. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police--Gibson at 570-465-3154. TRAFFIC COLLISION Christian Hayes, 17, Kingsley, failed to negotiate a right curve on State Route 2022, Lenox Township, on April 17 at 1:30 p.m., and he and five passengers received minor injuries when Christian's vehicle rolled over. ASSAULT – DOMESTIC Roger Williams, 25, Susquehanna Depot, and a juvenile were involved in a domestic altercation on Grand Ave. in Susquehanna Depot, on April 16 at 11:00 p.m. Both parties face assault charges, according to the police report. No serious injuries were reported. TRAFFIC COLLISION On April 17 at 9:50 a.m. Billy Williams, 33, S. Boston, VA, was traveling north on State Route 171, Thompson Township, while Brand Law, 19, no address given, was traveling south on the same road. Williams' 2003 Freightliner traveled into Law's path and struck Law's 1987 Nissan Pathfinder. Both operators and an infant passenger in Law's vehicle received minor injuries. THEFT Sometime between 11:00 p.m. on April 17 and 7:00 a.m. the next morning, someone removed a green glass ornamental ball, 12 inches in diameter, and a grey, black and white plastic goose decoy from the property of Steven T. Winnie, State Route 1010 (Harmony Rd.), Great Bend Township. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police – Gibson at 570-465-3154. RETAIL THEFT A black SUV with New Jersey registration pulled into the Pump & Pantry, Great Bend Township, on April 18 at 9:05 a.m., and pumped $13.00 in gas, then drove from the scene in a northerly direction on Interstate 81. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police - Gibson at 570-465-3154. TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Matt Sacco, Lanesboro, lost control of his 1996 Toyota Camry on April 16 on State Route 706, Rush Township. His vehicle struck an enbankment and rolled over on its roof. Sacco was not injured. TRAFFIC ACCIDENT James Kulsicavage, Nicholson, lost control of his 1979 Ford pickup while traveling north on State Route 3023 on April 16. His vehicle struck a utility pole. Kulsicavage was not injured. TRAFFIC COLLISION Jeremy Scott Stone, 20, Thompson, made a left turn onto State Route 1001 from Township Rd. 747 (Ridge Rd.), Thompson Township, with a 2000 Freightliner dump truck. Paul E. Zipprich, 32, Hop Bottom, was traveling east on State Route 1001 and Stone apparently pulled in front of Zipprich causing a collision. No injuries occurred in this April 17 incident at 7:50 a.m. TRAFFIC ACCIDENT On April 17 at 5:00 p.m., Courtney Ann Kerr, 20, New Milford, was traveling north on State Route 11 in a 1990 Pontiac behind a 2003 Dodge pickup, driven by Dennis L. Seelenbrandt, 56, Thompson. Seelenbrandt slowed to make a left hand turn onto Depot Street, and Kerr drove into the rear of Seelenbrandt's vehicle. Kerr was taken to Barnes-Kasson Hospital complaining of pain in the back. TWO-CAR CRASH Nancy Houck, S. Montrose, pulled from a stop sign on State Route 3029 into the path on oncoming Jason Winans, RR 3, Montrose, who was traveling on State Route 706, Jessup Township. Winans received minor injuries in this April 16 incident. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Someone smashed out the windows of a pick up truck belonging to Louis Sparks, State Route 11, New Milford, on April 15. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State police - Gibson at 570-465-3154. BURGLARY An investigation continues into a break in at Burman's Collision Center, State Route 92, Gibson Township, on April 2 at 2:20 a.m. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police - Gibson at 570-465-3154 and refer to RO5-0498381. PRESS RELEASE PENNDOT advises drivers that the temporary roadway at the site of the bridge project along PA Route 267 near Lawton in Rush Township is to be open starting Tuesday 4/22 or Wed. 4/23. It will maintain two lanes of traffice with a speed limit of 25 MPH. The $471,000 project is expected to be completed in June. MARRIAGES Robert M. Burnett Sr., 46, Great Bend Township, and Noreen L. Conrad, 37, Rush Township. DEEDS Michael Garrahan and Susan Garrahan and Donald Gacha and Carol Gacha and Carlton D. Bell and Enid C. Ball to Paula A. Pardoe in Springville Township for $145,000. Julia A. Nucci to James Thomas and Barbara Thomas in Silver Lake Township for $36,500. Werdon J. Allen aka Werdon Allen and Betty Allen to Nathan E. Councilman and Angie M. Councilman in Bridgewater Township for $1 ogvc. Frank F. Mittman and Anne L. Mittman to Tonia L. Newhart in Bridgewater Township for $15,000. Joseph N. Ballner and Nancy R. Ballner to Richard M. Jordan and Maureen R. Brown in Montrose Borough for $83,500. Terry Lee Braun to Citifinancial Mortgage Co, Inc. fka Associates CDC in Susquehanna County Depot for $1. Julia M. Fagan to Citifinancial Mortgage Co., Inc., fka Associates CDC in Susquehanna Depot Borough for $1. Citifinancial Mortgage Company, Inc, fka Associates Consumer Discount Company to Darrin R. Stanford and Kristin L. Stanford in Susquehanna Borough for $26,500. Alaska Seaborad Partners Limited Partnership to Mario Munoz in Susquehanna Depot for $10. Bank of New York to James Caldwell and Brenda Caldwell in New Milford Township for $28,000. Lloyd R. Shaw and Jackie Shaw to Lloyd R. Shaw and Jackie Shaw in Springville Township for $1. Gary Allen Goff and Donna M. Goff and Richard A. Goff to Gary Allen Goff in Jessup Township for $1 ogvc. Charles W. Kovalefsky to Keith A. Kovalefsky in New Milford Township for $1 ogvc. David A. Brassard and Michelle Samuels, fka Michelle Brassard to David A. Brassard and Addison J. Brassard, Alannah C. Brassard, Alexander H. Brassard in Great Bend Township for $1 ogvc. Annette E. Barron, nbm Annette E. Applegate and Joseph A. Applegate to Joseph A. Applegate and Annette E. Applegate in Jackson Township for $1. Mildred Graham to James J. Swedrek in Auburn Township for $12,000. Francine E. Black nbm Francine E. Schoer to David W. Schroer and Francine E. Schroer in Apolacon Township for $1. Andrew Shamro to Joshua P. Harvatine in Herrick Township for $177,000. Richard A. Gary to Craig R. Reeves in Rush Township for bluestone mining operation. Francis J. Pinkowski and Melba L. Cutler to James H. Murray and Madonna C. Murray in Auburn Township for $115,000. Delbert G. Hall and Bessie F. Hall to Bradley R. Hall in Great Bend Township for $1. Timothy W. Ross and Crystle A. Ross to Barbara Upright in Oakland Borough for $35,000. Beverly Y. Bancroft aka Beverly Y. Cook to Daisy V. Litchmore in Auburn Township for $40,000. Byron C. White and Patricia Ann White to Robyn M. Dahm in Oakland Borough for $79,000. Vicki Rhoads to Robert E. Rhoads in Herrick Township for $1. Dennis P. States to Dennis P. States in Bridgewater Township for $1. Jolynn Erkfitz aka Jolynn Erfitz to Marquetta Wheeler in Harmony Township for $1 ogvc (transfer tax paid on fair market value of $108,405). Tina M. Marciano and Walter Singer and Ruth A. Hodgson to Tina M. Marciano and Walter Singer in Lenox Township for $1. Larry E. Seeley aka Larry Edward Seeley and Carol J. Seeley to David Hesse in Franklin Township for $1 ogvc. Albert C. Nassan to Eric M. Brown and Jennifer J. Brown in Harmony Township for $130,000. Justine H. Pearis and Stuart M. Pearis to Michael J. McCarthy and Catherine A. McCarthy in Silver Lake Township for $250,000. Harold E. Morrison to Gregory W. Hempstead in Bridgewater Township for $81,900. Commissioners
Set EMS Week According to Brent Meadows, Executive Director of the Bradford/Susquehanna EMS Council, Susquehanna County is "blessed" to have so many EMS personnel who give their personal time to respond to emergencies. He made this statement in response to the commissioners proclaiming the week of May 18-24 as Emergency Medical Services Week. Meadows also noted that in this hectic time, the county is lucky to have dedicated people, including EMT's, firemen, an education training coordinator and Emergency Management Agency personnel. The rest of the commissioners' meeting was pretty mundane, with the exception of a resignation by Derek Bouse, 9-1-1 dispatcher, and the hiring of Gerald Rettburg as a trainee for that position. Also, reappointments were made to the Susquehanna County Tourism Committee for another one-year term, including Michele Suchnick, Kim Ross, Lee Brown, Sue Fitch, Alan Aronowitz, Willard Docktor and Elizabeth Janoski. This committee recommends ways that 25 percent of county's room tax should be used specifically for Susquehanna County projects. After 3 percent is taken by the county for administering the monies, the other 75 percent goes to the Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, which has been the subject of criticism for its priorities for spending that money. During Salary Board, Rettburg's salary as a 9-1-1 dispatcher trainee was set at $7.48 an hour per the union contract. Denise Sellers, Intake Officer for Domestic Relations, will get a salary of $8.36, also per union contract. Her appointment was made by the Judge. A Retirement Board meeting followed the other two. David Scales spoke for his wife Carol regarding a retirement issue that has been ongoing since November, 1999. At that time she was no longer able to work, and received Workers Compensation to cover medical expenses. In November 2002, the retirement board approved her retirement effective then, and Scales was asking that they reconsider going back to November, 1999. The reason it was never given at the onset was that there appeared to be a paperwork snafu, according to Scales. He said the appropriate paperwork was submitted at the proper time, but that it got lost in the system. It was later found, he said, in Carol's boss' files, not in the commissioner's office or in her personnel file. "The reason you didn't make the decision (to give her retirement) earlier is because you didn't have the information." Now that they have the information, and made a decision to give her retirement as of November, 2002, David reasoned, if they had the same information on November, 1999 they would have made the same decision then. He said that they have been trying to bring it to the retirement board's attention, and it took Treasurer Cathy Benedict and Chief Clerk Suzanne Brainard to go looking for the paperwork to finally find it. Lee Smith, who was acting Chairman since Gary Marcho was absent again on Special Olympics business, said they'd talk with Solicitor Michael Giangrieco and have a decision at the next meeting. It was unfortunate that Marcho was absent, as the Steve Flanders Consulting Group presented the quarterly statement of the retirement account. Flanders is the relatively new group that advises on management for the retirement funds. As of April 21, assets are worth a little more than $5.4 million. They had lost a little ground in the first quarter (down to $5.2 million, but nothing compared with the loss over the last couple of years, when the value was more like $12 million at its peak. Some see the reason for the steep decline in the market, yet it was also partly because the former investment advisors kept over 90 percent in stocks or risky investments, and the commissioners never keep track of the advisors. Currently 65 percent of the funds are in stocks, as part of the re-balancing begun by Flanders on October 1, 2002. Steve Flanders explained why there was additional loss in the first quarter, citing the war as well as rising oil prices. Many corporations spent down inventory which them resulted in layoffs. Consumer confidence dropped sharply. Positives included housing which held its value, and with the re-financing boom, it put some money back into people's pockets. Delinquency rates on credit cards dropped. Flanders then spoke about treasury bonds, and how their high value is present while interest rates are low, but when things begin to turn to normal, interests rates will rise and it will not be good for bond holders. Also discussed were alternative investments, focusing on hedge funds, which is something the commissioners didn't seemed interested in pursuing. Hallstead
In "Good Shape" During the visitors and guests comment portion of the April 21 Hallstead Borough Council meeting, resident Elinor Fitzgerald addressed council to inquire whether a permit was required for a partial demolition of her house; a permit would not be needed for the demolition, but one will be needed when any rebuilding is done. Mrs. Fitzgerald then asked about the Franklin St. Park, whether there were any plans to put topsoil and re-seed the area where the water company had had cinders stored. Council president Franks responded that the water company had always been allowed to use the area for storing cinders, and in exchange had allowed the boro’s use of the material when necessary. He said that the water company would need to be contacted, to see if they still planned to use the area. Mrs. Fitzgerald asked if council planned to have the park surveyed, or to put a fence around the area. She gave council the deed to the property, as well as a map, showing its boundaries. She then asked if macadam from an adjacent parking lot is extending into park, because a private business is using it as a private thoroughfare. Mr. Franks said that council had discussed fencing the area in, but that was not a consideration if the water company is using it, and if they choose to keep using it. Mrs. Fitzgerald stated that it would be nice to have that part restored as park so that kids could use it. Mrs. Fitzgerald asked about the Rte. 11 park, particularly brush and trees near the fence; they are not taken care of and tree roots are going to uproot the fence. Mr. Franks said that some maintenance had been done last year; if more is needed, it will be taken care of. Mrs. Fitzgerald then asked about the Chase Ave. Park picnic area; would the roof there be replaced? Mr. Franks said that the roof had been a nice idea, but it didn’t work out. It was removed due to its being a liability; it was vandalized too many times and would not be replaced. Mrs. Fitzgerald thanked council for displaying a photograph of her husband, the late Mayor John Fitzgerald, in the council room. She has been trying to get a photo of Mr. Fitzgerald’s uncle, who had been a burgess in the boro for 20 years, to display as well. It would be nice, she said, to have all mayors, past and present represented. Mr. Franks agreed, but asked if perhaps the library would be a better spot, where more people could see it. Mrs. Fitzgerald said that she would consider it. In other business, two building permits were approved; a shed for the Dorunda property, and a swimming pool for the Hadlick property. Under petitions/complaints by citizens, Mayor Canfield asked about a pothole under the viaduct on Pine Hill. Mr. Franks took this opportunity to thank maintenance supervisor John Gordon for effectively taking care of the ice in that area. Council member Martin Brown commented that the lack of complaints to discuss speaks for the good work Mr. Gordon is doing. Mayor Canfield asked if there is any cleanup planned for the accumulation of anti-skid on the boro’s streets. Some intersections, he said are particularly bad. It was agreed that boro residents could facilitate cleanup by sweeping in front of their homes. Mr. Gordon will modify the boro truck to pick up the debris; most of it will be reused. Under streets/sidewalks/buildings, council discussed maintenance scheduled for the pavilion at the Rte. 11 park; Mr. Gordon was authorized to purchase materials to paint the roof. In response to complaints about the electric service at the pavilion, he will also install additional outlets. A motion carried to approve blacktopping the area between the sidewalk and the road, alongside the library/boro building. Bid prices had been received earlier, and the work is included in this year’s budget. Council member Martin Brown reported that he has received several inquiries about when the nets will be put up at the tennis courts; they were scheduled to be put up later that week. Mr. Brown added that several teens had been recruited to help clean the courts of litter (soda bottles, etc.). Mayor Canfield asked if the Christmas lights on the trees near the riverbank were going to be taken down or left up. Mr. Franks said that it has been the practice to remove them, as they are vandalized if they are left up. Mr. Gordon added that they had not been removed yet due to activity at the site. Under unfinished business, a motion carried to accept an agreement for management of the softball field, with Blue Ridge High School and the Over 35 Men’s League. Some changes recommended by the boro’s solicitor had been added to the original agreement. Returning to the subject of the viaduct, Mayor Canfield asked who is responsible for it, particularly with the accumulation of water; PENNDOT is responsible for the road itself and the railroad is responsible for the walkway. Mr. Canfield commented that PENNDOT needs to address drainage in that area, as water is building up in the road. In particular, there is a question about the location of a manhole that seems to have been paved over. Mr. Brown said that he could obtain use of a "locator" to find where it is, so that the source of the water can be determined. Council member Michele Giangrieco asked Mr. Gordon if there were any projects that need to be done. Mr. Gordon said that other than drainage, putting up signs and the usual maintenance, he did not see anything major, and the boro building is "in pretty good shape." Under new business, council has learned that Eric Foote has resigned from the Sewer Authority board. Council will keep a look out for volunteers to serve in that capacity. A motion carried to approve a yearly $200 donation to Blue Ridge Recreation. Information regarding a county tire recycling program was reviewed. Registration forms will be available at the boro office as well as in local publications. The next meeting will be on Monday, May 19, 7:00 p.m. in the boro building. Harford
Schedules Cleanup The Harford Township Supervisors, two of them anyway, conducted a straightforward, orderly meeting on April 22 that had a beginning, and a middle, and that ended in about half and hour with all scheduled business cleaned up, so to say. There were a couple of routine permits to approve, but the major item on the agenda proved to be the annual "cleanup" program, scheduled this year for the week of June 9 through June 13. After considering three sets of minutes from prior meetings, a two-week-old bill list and a treasurer's report, the Supervisors learned that they are required by law to register the sewer system with the PA One Call system. At a prior meeting they couldn't come to a conclusion as to whether the registration would be worth the effort. But according to PA Act 287, enforced by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, "facility owners" are required to become members of the Pennsylvania One Call System (POCS). Harford Township, as the owner and operator of the Harford sewer system, must register its underground sewer lines with POCS, so that contractors and others who need to dig can find out where the lines are. The POCS is run by a non-profit corporation that monitors the telephone access number 1-800-242-1776, sometimes known as 1-800-Dig or, in other areas, as Miss Utility. The cost of registration shouldn't be too much of a problem. According to the treasurer's report, the Township has over $141,000 in its own accounts, and just under $200,000 in state-designated funds. Most of this money is intended for the maintenance of township roads. The sewer accounts, from which the cost of POCS registration would come, now total slightly under $100,000. According to Supervisor Rick Pisasik, the hefty sums available in the township and state accounts are awaiting the real road work that is only just now beginning for the season. A report submitted by Roadmaster Bob Simons told the Supervisors that the crews are beginning to grade roads in the North Harford area. Mr. Simons reported that (so far) some 750 tons of various grades of stone have been used to try to improve conditions on roads damaged by the severe and prolonged winter weather. He said that 75% of the stone has been used on Lower Podunk Road and Tingley Street. A month or so ago, the Supervisors announced receipt of a letter from the attorney for the person who now owns the old Chamberlain property in the village. The content of the letter was not revealed. Asked now about the matter, Mr. Pisasik said, "At this point I don't think it's a problem for the Township... But I don't know." The letter had been forwarded to the Township's solicitor, but Mr. Pisasik would not discuss details further. The annual Spring cleanup program is scheduled this year for the week of June 9-13, one week later than usual to allow for more publicity. This year the Township will operate the program itself, and attempt to sell the collected materials, instead of hiring a contractor. Originally the program cost residents $40 per load. Last year the fee went up to $45. (A load is defined as whatever will fit into a full-size pickup bed fitted with high staked sides.) Because the township thinks it can operate the program more efficiently itself, the Supervisors decided to drop the fee this year to only $35 per load. Under the rules of the program, for that price the township will pick up almost anything, including appliances, building materials, furniture, miscellaneous scrap - anything but household garbage. There will be an additional fee for tires, so far determined to be $3 for each passenger-car tire. The purpose of the program, of course, is to give residents an opportunity to help keep Harford Township clean and tidy at a reasonable cost. It has been a very popular program, since the beginning. Last year between 65 and 70 residents enrolled for pickups. Harford Township residents are asked to call the Township office for more information, and to sign up so that the crews will know where to make their pickups. The Harford Township Supervisors meet twice a month, on the second Wednesday and the fourth Tuesday, beginning at 7:30 p.m., at the Township office on Route 547, half a mile from I-81. On Medical Leave Due to the number of inquiries we have received at our offices, the County Transcript would like to let readers know that P. Jay Amadio is presently taking a medical leave. He will be returning to his "beat" as soon as he is able. In the meantime, any who wish to send get well wishes may send them to the County Transcript office, 212-216 Exchange St., Susquehanna, PA 18847. We will be happy to forward them to him. Starrucca
Borough Council Minutes Starrucca Borough Council met on April 7 at the Starrucca Community Hall. The following members were present: Pete Downton, Andrew Bennett, Ruth Lunt, and Paul Everett. Lou Gurske, Paul Downton, Helen Haynes, and Mayor Wendell Swartz were absent. Council President Pete Downton presided. Motion to accept the previous minutes carried unanimously. Motion to approve the treasurer’s report and pay the bills carried unanimously. Kristin Potter suggested the council consider eliminating some of their bank accounts. Ruth Lunt suggested the council look for better insurance rates in the next year. Correspondence was read. A motion to reimburse Pastor John Grove for mileage to an emergency management seminar in Wilkes-Barre at the cost of $0.38 per mile carried unanimously. It was suggested that the council secretary not put personnel matters in the minutes. In order to avoid this situation in the future, it was decided that personnel matters should be discussed in executive session. Persons to be heard: a motion to grant Gale Williams the use of 20 chairs from the hall on April 12 carried unanimously. The Starrucca Civic Association requested the council coordinate the 150th Anniversary plaque with the Memorial Day celebration. Mayor Wendell Swartz will work with the SCA in these efforts. Building permits: a permit was issued to the Shadigee Hunting Club for construction of a storage shed on their property on Shadigee Creek Road. Old business: additional work still needs to be done to complete the ball field. Ruth Lunt noted that the Agricultural Security Plan needs to be updated. The council will follow up. New business: president Pete Downton gave a discussion on professionalism. Ruth Lunt noted that Penn Hill Road is in need of work. The flags in the memorial park need to be replaced. Kristin Potter stated the Starrucca Civic Association usually replaces the flags and she will follow up. Community hall: the outside kitchen vent is in need of repair. The council will look into repainting the hall. A motion carried to approve the use of the hall for voting on May 20, 2003. Roads: a motion to accept the bid for summer road maintenance submitted by Frank Zaczek carried unanimously. There being no further business, meeting adjourned at 8:37. County
Sentencings The following sentencings were released by the Susquehanna County District Attorney's office. Thomas Gerald Merritt, 20, Laceyville, was sentenced to 30 days to 18 months of home confinement, prosecution costs, a $500 fine, and restitution to the victim for Criminal Conspiracy/Criminal Trespass. Merritt and a co-defendant broke into the South Auburn Store on October 25, 2001. Linda Ann Bailey, 40, Susquehanna, received a sentence of 5 to 23.5 months in the Susquehanna County Jail, which was suspended, 23 months of state probation, plus cost of prosecution, $250 fine, evaluation for drug and alcohol abuse, and 25 hours of community service. He was also ordered not to transport, consume or possess any alcoholic beverages, and pay $100 for substance abuse education fund due to a charge of Manufacture of a Controlled Substance on June 13, 2002. James P. Jones, 50, Dimock, got 30 days to 12 months in the Susquehanna County Jail, which was suspended, with 12 months state probation, cost of prosecution, $150 fine, $10 EMS and $50 CAT Surcharge. The charge was Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officers in Dimock Township on October 14, 2002. Douglas Matthew Davison, 25, Hallstead, received 15 months probation, cost of prosecution, $150 fine, evaluation for drug and alcohol abuse, restitution to the victim and no contact with anyone on probation or parole or on any supervision. He must also continue to be employed. This was the result of the charge of Theft by Unlawful Taking in Great Bend on August 14, 2002. Leatson D. Lanes, 35, Hallstead, was sentenced to 48 hours to 1 year in Susquehanna County Jail, with credit for time served, cost of prosecution, $300 fine, $10 EMS, $50 CAT Surcharge and evaluation for drug and alcohol abuse. He must attend alcohol safe driving school and is not to transport, consume, or possess any alcoholic beverages and pay $100 for substance abuse education fund, for DUI in Great Bend on October 10, 2002. Joseph Paul Paulauskas, 21, Roselle Park, NJ, received 48 hours to 1 year in Susquehanna County Jail, with credit for time served. He must pay cost of prosecution, $300 fine, $10 EMS, $50 CAT Surcharge, have a drug and alcohol evaluation, do 50 hours of community service, attend alcohol safe driving school and pay $100 for Substance Abuse Education fund, for a DUI in Montrose on October 26, 2002. Joseph Angerson, 48, Susquehanna, was sentenced to pay $500 fine, $10 EMS, $50 CAT Surcharge relating to an accident involving damage to attended vehicle property in Lenox Township on October 5, 2002. David Charles Scheffer, 46, Brackney, was given 6 years to 12 years in State Correctional Facility. He must also pay costs of prosecution, $2500 fine, restitution to the victim, $250 for DNA fee and a DNA sample, for Involuntary Deviate Sexual intercourse. He also received 5 years to 10 years, suspended, with 5 years probation to run consecutive with the above charge, pay cost of prosecution, $100 fine, for Aggravated Indecent Assault. He received 12 months to 24 months to run concurrent, pay cost of prosecution, $100 fine, $250 fee for DNA costs and DNA sample for Corruption of Minors. All sentences were results of an incident in Bridgewater Township on July 1, 1999. Michael Cox, 24, Honesdale, to 4 months to 15 months in Susquehanna County Jail to run concurrent to any current sentence, pay cost of prosecution, $500 fine, drug and alcohol evaluation, restitution and 11 p.m. curfew, for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Forest City on September 14, 2002. Cox and co-defendant stole items from Forest City Beverage. Shannon Cullen, 19, Harwich, MA, was sentenced to 2 to 15 months in Susquehanna County Jail, with credit for time served, $500 fine, cost of prosecution, mental health evaluation, $677 restitution, no contact with anyone on probation or parole or any supervision, upon parole become and stay employed, pay $250 cost for and give DNA sample, for Criminal Conspiracy/Burglary of French's Garage in Susquehanna on February 6, 2002. Sara Betsy Schlegel, 52, Carbondale, received 1 to 15 months in Susquehanna County Jail, suspended, 15 months probation, cost of prosecution, $500 fine, evaluation for drug and alcohol abuse and 50 hours of community service, for Criminal Attempt/Theft by Unlawful Taking from the Endless Mountain Pharmacy in Clifford on September 24, 2002. Justin Charles Stone, 19, Laceyville, got 4 to 18 months in the Susquehanna County Jail, cost of prosecution, $500 fine, drug and alcohol evaluation, 50 hours of community service, restitution, no contact with co-defendant, 10 p.m. curfew, DNA sample and $250 cost, for Burglary in Auburn Township on October 25, 2001 of the South Auburn Store. David D. Hine, 33, Waymart, was sentenced to 30 days to 18 months in the Susquehanna County Jail, with credit for time served, $500 fine, $10 EMS, $100 CAT Surcharge, 50 hours of community service, attend alcohol safe driving school. He must also not transport, consume, or possess any alcoholic beverages, have no contact with anyone on probation or parole or any supervision, pay $100 for controlled substance education fund, continue with outpatient program, be on intense supervision for the first 6 months and is not to enter any establishments whose sole purpose is the sale of alcohol, for a DUI. He also received 45 days to 18 months in the Susquehanna County Jail, with credit for time served, cost of prosecution, $500 fine, $10 EMS, $30 CAT Surcharge, and is not to transport, consume, or possess any alcoholic beverages. He is to be on intense supervision for the first 6 months, continue with AA and be evaluated for drug and alcohol abuse, for an Accident Involving Death or Personal Injury while not properly Licenced. Both sentences are the result of an accident in Great Bend on October 1, 2002. Craig James Anderson, 22, Hallstead, received 6 to 23.5 months in Susquehanna County Jail, with credit for time served, cost of prosecution, $500 fine, 25 hours of community service and no contact with anyone on probation or parole or on any supervision. He has 45 days to become employed. The sentence is the result of charges of Flight to Avoid Apprehension, Trial, or Punishment in Hallstead on August 15, 2002.
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