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HEADLINES: High Finance At Blue Ridge Almost 6 weeks after their last meeting, Blue Ridge School Board members had a busy evening on May 16, beginning with committee meetings. Harold Empett’s Facilities & Grounds Committee has grown somewhat with summer approaching, the season for major projects, and with the startup of the $2 million phase-one energy project. Business Manager Loren Small summarized the most important items, some of which came before the full Board at the business meeting later in the evening. Johnson Controls, the company that proposed the 2-phase energy program and got the contract to carry out phase one, had developed a list of items to work on based on a detailed analysis of the Blue Ridge facility and operations. Some of the items on the list are expected to yield energy-cost savings to the district in time. Many of them, however, are capital items that would have to be done sooner or later anyway. Johnson Controls had anticipated carrying out most of the work themselves. Mr. Small, together with the Facilities & Grounds Committee and the districts’ maintenance and information-technology (IT) staff studied the list, too, and decided that some of the items could be done less expensively by the district itself, and in some cases the quality of the equipment could be improved over what was offered by Johnson Controls. So, for example, all of the IT items will be handled in-house. And the Board at its business meeting agreed to solicit bids on its own to replace the entire antiquated fire-alarm system. Over the past several months, while the committee and the administration were developing the energy plan with Johnson Controls, various financing measures were debated. Board President Alan Hall presented a detailed 6-page financial summary involving another bond issue that he estimated would get everything done and end up saving the district over $3 million at the end of 20 years. The blizzard of figures listed expected energy savings, bond coupons, state contributions and debt service. The package shows that the current bonds, left over from the 1994 campus renovation and now costing the district nearly $1.5 million per year in debt service, would be paid off by 2018. Even with the new bonds, debt service would drop to under $500,000 by 2023, according to Mr. Hall’s projections. He didn’t include any figures covering the proposed phase 2 of the energy program: the installation of a $7 million wind turbine. In fact, when an observer asked the status of that part of the project, Mr. Hall said that data from the wind study now under way would not be available for another 6 to 8 months, after which the Board would have to analyze the results before doing anything about it. At the very end of the meeting Mr. Hall acknowledged that the financing is “very complicated.” He restated that the goal of the project is ultimately to save money by making much-needed capital upgrades that won’t need to be addressed again for another 10-15 years; and that, together with the energy savings, the program would yield about $3.2 million to the district “and not cost the taxpayers a penny.” At the business meeting, the board voted on an item in an addendum to the agenda to assign the bond purchase contract to RBC Capital Markets, which is expected to present a package to the Board at its next meeting, only a week away. Another objective for the summer involves drainage and paving work. Burkavage Design Associates will be paid $12,400 to design and oversee two projects totaling about $420,000 to repave large sections of the district’s driveways and parking lots, and to improve drainage at the main drive exit. The maintenance staff will be busy as usual. The Elementary School playground equipment will be completely replaced, with help from a grant acquired through Principal Matthew Button’s office. Mr. Empett suggested that some parts of the old wooden components might be auctioned off. And Dennis Lewis reviewed a number of smaller items around the campus, including a senior class project, some of which involve the improvement and reconfiguration of some neglected flower beds. A student asked the board to approve a National Honor Society service project to improve a swampy area. He was directed to present a plan to Mr. Empett’s Committee. With the end of the school year fast approaching, can the end of the fiscal year be far behind? The Board must formally adopt a budget for the year beginning July 1 by its June meeting on the 27th. Each of the major department heads was put in the hot seat to explain his or her budget request. Clearly the administration had been told to cut. Athletics Director Jill Hoffman’s budget went against the trend, proposing an increase of … $317 over the current year. She said the softball and baseball teams would need all new bats - at about $200 a pop for 12-15 bats at each of 3 levels - to comply with PIAA regulations. The PIAA has also decreed that soccer uniforms can’t be white with a red stripe, so all of the soccer uniforms will have to be replaced. She also increased her transportation budget, to account for higher fuel prices. For her first budget as Athletics Director, Ms. Hoffman wasn’t pressed too hard, and yielded the chair to Donna Tewes. Technology Directory Tewes presented a spending plan with “significant savings.” The district won’t be purchasing personal computers any more. Instead, computers will be replaced with “thin-client” technology which is not only cheaper, but more energy efficient. She doesn’t plan to install any new servers or other major equipment. Asked about new smartboards (interactive whiteboards), Mr. Hall responded for her, saying that the district would not install additional smartboards until the administration can show that the units currently in the inventory are being “100%” used. Barbara McCain, Acting Special Education Director, told the Board that her budget for next year represents a 47% reduction in spending. On the other hand, the Board also approved a “campus-based secondary life skills program” that will come under her guidance. Blue Ridge has been attempting to bring some of these special programs back to the campus from Elk Lake and the Intermediate Unit as a way to help control costs and increase apparent enrollment which will sustain state imbursement levels. High School Principal Matthew Nebzydoski told the Board that the Middle School budget will be down by about $28,000 next year; the High School budget will be cut by some $44,000. He said that the cost of field trips will now be shared: transportation will remain the responsibility of the district, but admission fees must now be paid by attending students. Superintendent Robert McTiernan said that the policy on field trips has now been made consistent. Mr. Button claimed a 19% decrease in his budget for next year, with general and supplies cut by about 22%. He said there will be a slight increase for the 3rd grade next year due to a (temporary) increase in enrollment. Each of the school budget included an addendum, which distributes the old activities budget among the various schools. With all revenue sources expected to be lower next year by some $1.1 million overall, Mr. Small was still able to project a budget shortfall of under $500,000, similar to the current year. He said that staff reductions and other cutbacks also tend to decrease reimbursements from the state. While there is some hope that the state will find more money to send to the schools for next year, no one is betting on it. There was other more routine business to handle at the meeting, including a number of personnel actions, among which were the appointments of Janice Johnson, Margo Parsons, Michelle Allen, Jane McNamara and Gail Wnorowski to teach the summer sessions. Margaret Glezen will be paid $1,500 for services as Title I Coordinator for the current year. Upon inquiry, Administrative Assistant Penny Greene said that Ms. Glezen has been acting as coordinator all year; this action would simply pay her for the service. The Board approved a “letter of agreement” with NHS of Northeastern Pennsylvania for the Student Assistance Program for next year, as required by the state Department of Education. The agreement provides for supplementary mental-health counseling and related services for referred at-risk students. The Board chose Northeast Exposure Photography for photographic services for next year at rates equivalent to those for the current year. They also added Paul Sieben, Jr. to the pool of students requesting help attending outside programs. Mr. Sieben will attend the National Youth Leadership Forum in Washington in the Fall. The Board sets aside a sum of money to help with these requests. Recently it has been $500, but there have been suggestions that it be doubled. The Board seemed to agree to boost it if the number applicants rises further. And the Board voted to appoint Harold Empett its Treasurer for the coming fiscal year, succeeding Joel Whitehead. Mr. Empett will be paid $1,500 for his services, and will be bonded at $15,000. The Board chose Peoples Neighborhood Bank, PennStar Bank, Salomon Smith Barney, PA Invest, PLGIT, First Liberty Bank and Trust and First National Bank as depositories. First Liberty was a new addition. First National is the new name of Community Bank. Without hesitation, the Board also approved the Summer Food Service program that has been so popular and successful at Blue Ridge for so long. Paid for by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the state Department of Education, the program provides a free lunch to virtually anyone who shows up for a program on campus during the summer. Board member Laurie Brown-Bonner and Mr. Hall both urged their colleagues - and the community - to contact legislators, particularly about the voucher program now making its way through the legislature. Mr. Hall declared again that the program would be a “disaster,” and “will destroy public education in Pennsylvania.” Nevertheless, he wound up the meeting claiming that Blue Ridge is “remarkable” for continuing virtually all of its existing programs despite difficult financial times, comparing Blue Ridge favorably with many other districts around the region and the state that are being forced to cut even more staff and programs. Education continues, nonetheless. Mr. Nebzydoski introduced Emily Guinan, a senior who will attend Temple University in the Fall to study psychology. Chris Zawiski, his other senior-of-the-month, was playing baseball that evening. Ben Hepler inadvertently stood in for him. Mr. Hepler will attend Unity College in Maine next year to study environmental science. And Alan Wilmarth and Tom Chamberlain visited to report on the 6th grade trip to Washington, once more remarking on the comments they received from many along the way about the behavior of the 3 busloads that visited the state capital along the way where they were judged the “best-behaved group of the year.” One of the highlights was an encounter between the students and a group of World War II veterans. Blue Ridge 6th graders have been trekking to Washington since the early 1960’s; Mr. Wilmarth made his 28th trip this year. He and Mr. Chamberlain represent C.A.F.E. (Creative Adventures For Education), a local group that organizes the trip each year and now has a website, cafe4kids.org. They presented a book to the Middle School library, and thanked local supporters, including Peoples Neighborhood Bank and the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion and affiliates. And Mr. Nebzydoski asked listeners to watch for billboards featuring artwork by senior Jillena Bennett to bring attention to the importance of suicide awareness and prevention. You may be able to see the billboard on the way to the next meeting, the following Monday, May 23. Or, since you won’t see this until after that, perhaps the next one, June 13. All public meetings begin at 7:00 p.m., except some that begin early with committee meetings, and all are held in the cafeteria in the Elementary School. MVSD Continues Money Talk Student liaison Ryan Walsh opened the May 16 meeting of the Mt. View school board, as was habit. Briefly, he highlighted some of the events in the district over the last month. The student government held its officer elections, the FBLA had its annual banquet, the welcome over dance was to be held for sixth graders moving up to 7th grade, and the Envirothon team had won the county competition and qualified for the state competition. The reading competition was held May 3 at Western Wayne High School, and the students won their three rounds. It was planned to start a high school team the following year. At a math competition at Marywood University two students received medals, Malachi Philips and Stephanie Oster. The students were on teams with students from different schools. The high school challenge team had performed well. Though they had not won their competition in Cortland, NY they came within 15 points going into the last round. The 7th and 8th grade students had participated in the St. Jude's Math Counts, and raised over $1400 between the two grades. Mr. Walsh was thanked for his work, as he was to be graduating. Roy Twining from Clifford Township asked questions regarding labor relations. He wondered if there were any changes made to the act 93 agreement, with personnel. It was responded that there were a few changes, and, when pressed about this, Dr. Chichura and Mr. Zick responded that these changes hadn't been voted on yet but would be available under right to know guidelines. Mr. Twining then mentioned that Dr. Chichura had stated the administration opted out of a pay increase for the 2011-2012 school year, wishing apparently to confirm this. Dr. Chichura confirmed that they had volunteered for a wage freeze. Mr. Twining thanked the administrators for taking that stand. He then spoke about how the community members weren't getting raises, and some were even losing their jobs. He didn't feel it to be a right that administration get a raise every year, and asked the board to take this into consideration and pass the vote accordingly. Corrina Kinney then broached a question regarding transportation, wondering if anyone could explain the difference in the car and bus contracts regarding the option to pay either mileage or a layover rate, whichever is cheaper. She understood the car layover rate to be $4 less than the buses. She wondered if this was taken into consideration with buses as well, as to whether a layover might be cheaper than taking mileage back and forth. Mr. Mirabelli explained that bus contracts were set. This was based off of a state rate, and the routes were set in advance. The cars and van contractors were paid a set amount established by the board, which was based off of what they drove on a particular day. Ms. Kinney then spoke about the discrepancy between bus and car layovers, wondering if the board had taken this into consideration and feeling that no person's time was more valuable than any other persons. Mr. Mirabelli replied that this would have to be something the board would consider, and Mr. Zick pointed out that they were not acting on three of the transportation items anyway. Tom Stoddard then had a question regarding the presentation Mr. Mirabelli had made the week prior. The business manager had said that the PSERS rate had increased by 3%, and Mr. Stoddard asked if he could know how much that represented. He said that when it was stated in the meeting it sounded very innocuous, but he reckoned that this was probably a significant amount of money. Mr. Mirabelli confirmed this, explaining that while 5% to 8% was only a 3 point increase, it represented roughly a 60% increase in expense to the district. Mr. Stoddard then asked how much was taken from the general fund to balance the budget. Mr. Mirabelli replied that they had not taken any out; the district had actually spent less than was projected to spend. The budget had projected a $270,000 deficit, but the district had actually had a $100,000 surplus. This was what he was projecting after a year of watching spending; it could change by the end of the year. If this projection was correct then, he said, there would be no money taken from the general fund. Dr. Chichura explained that in the coming year the district was expecting a 1.1 million dollar discrepancy between revenues and expenditures, which meant that the district would have to budget a significant amount of money to come out of the general fund. Several service providers were approved during the fiscal portion of the meeting. Gina Yarrish was approved to be the district treasurer, to represent the district. Raymond Ronaldi was appointed to be the school solicitor. Sweets, Stevens, Katz, and Williams, LLP was approved as the special counsel. Barnes-Kasson was appointed the school medical facility. This was a change from the previous year with the closing of the Lenox office and the recommendation from the school nurse and administration. The home golf course was established to be Rock Creek, and Northeast Exposure was awarded the photography bid. The tentative general fund budget was set at $16,874,151, based on 34.3 mills real estate tax, $5 per capita tax under Act 511, $5 per capita tax under Section 679 of the Public School Code, occupational assessment tax at 100 mills, 1 percent earned income tax under act 511, and 1 percent real estate transfer tax. The budget represented, Mr. Griffiths explained, 6 tenths of a mill increase in taxes, just below what was allowed. Mr. Mirabelli expanded on this, stating that it would be a 1.78% increase, the district could only have as high as a 1.9% increase. Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan clarified that as things were at that point, there was a $1,153,466 deficit. Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan was the only board member to vote against the tentative budget. The act 93 benefits package for the second line administrators was motioned and voted upon. Dr. Chichura was asked if he had any recommendation, and he responded that this was not something the superintendent recommended, but something which they went straight to the administration for. That vote passed unanimously, save for Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan, as did the benefit plan for administrators not covered by Act 93 for the year. She also voted against the administrative office secretaries benefit package, the non-represented salaries, and the administrative salaries. When it came time for the white sheet, someone requested that the term white sheet be defined. Mr. Zick explained that this covered a lot of the people not covered by unions, such as substitutes, security, ticket takers, trip organizers, and so on. It is printed on a white sheet, he said, and the name stuck; there were no changes to these salaries save for the athletic director position. The elimination of the assistant coach positions was approved, to begin with the winter season. The reason it did not begin with the fall season, it was explained, was because they were already appointed. The plan was to go with volunteers for these positions. This passed unanimously. Jan Price was appointed to be the Athletic Director for the following year, at a rate of $6,000 total. This was also passed unanimously. The resignation of Lois Howell was accepted, for retirement. Dr. Chichura explained that this would take the place of the planned clerical position elimination, and there would not need to be a cut. Dr. Chichura reported that Mountain View had not received the fruit and vegetable grant it had applied for. The rejection letter stated that there had been more needy schools. Final exams were to begin on Wednesday, June 1, Mr. Doster reported, and would conclude June 7, and the seniors were to leave for their senior trip. Out of the 102 seniors, 59 were to be going. Mrs. Voigt spoke about Title 2 allocations, which were decreased 15% from last year. Districts were told to look for a 0 to 20% reduction, but were guaranteed 80% of what they had received the year prior. This could be used for class reduction, staff development, Title 1 assistance, and so on. Because the district's poverty rate was over 15% this year, they may, having a concentration grant, not see as much of a reduction as some other districts. Staff summer academy was to be held, where they could receive Act 48 credits. This year, however, there would be no remuneration involved on the part of the school. There is a summer language camp online, she said, through v-linc, for students looking for a summer camp. Students would be provided with a free i-pod touch, and would cost $150 overall. Chinese, Japanese, and Russian were the classes offered. She then thanked the PTO and those involved in the science showcase at the elementary. The event was spoken of very highly. Three students had placed with their stories in an elementary level competition, and the first place student would be able to see his story performed at a Story Pirates performance on the stage of the Scranton Cultural Center and sit in the presidential box to watch it. The winner, Jacob Demento, was in the early elementary grades. The 7th and 8th grade course of study was accepted. The changes had been presented the week prior, and involved a reduction in certain exploratory courses. A motion was made to approve an affidavit of possession and ratification of oil and gas lease. This was voted through unanimously. Mrs. Aherne proposed an idea to save money. If Mr. Mirabelli could come up with a number of how much paper had been used this year, she suggested, a goal could be set for the following year to use 80% less. Someone else suggested that Mr. Doster's idea from the week prior could be followed - give staff a paper allotment at the beginning of the year and that would be all they could use. A community group was going to be forming to put together summer lunchboxes for students in the community who may benefit from extra nutrition over the summer. They requested that the board allow flyers to be distributed at the elementary school to make parents aware of the availability. The group, it was reported, was taking volunteers and non-perishable donations. A parent could pick up a week's supply of food at a time. Dr. Chichura said that the dissemination of flyers had not been approved, per prior administrative practices, due to the involvement of religious organizations. Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan said that the organization was not attached to a religious group itself. Dr. Chichura asserted that he felt it to be a great program, but there was a church and state issue. The board could direct him otherwise, however. All that would be required would be the handing out of the flyers. There was a discussion then about the board's preference. There was no church listed on the flyer, just contact names. Dr. Chichura said that the original request had church affiliation, but it was reiterated by a board member that the current flyer simply stated the program was run was by community volunteers. In the end, it was agreed that the flyer could be distributed per what appeared to be the preference of a majority of the board. When a reporter asked about the vaccination changes, it was responded that the school nurse had been contacting families for some time. There could be some flexibility in allowing students to attend the next year, though whether they could if they did not comply would be at the discretion of the school nurse. Mr. Twining asked about crisis management training. Mr. Doster explained that they were looking to go through the intermediate unit at this point. It was confirmed when asked, that it was believed there were people trained in crisis management at this point.
Courthouse Report DEEDS Frank (AKA) Frank A. and Susan (AKA) Susan L. Nardone to Jon W. Zerfoss, in Forest City, Hop Bottom Borough and Lenox Township for one dollar. Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church (by trustees) to Little White Community Church, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Lillie Delsordo (by atty) to Felix, Jr. (trust), Joanne (trust) and Caroline Delsordo (AKA) Caroline Crescente, and Robert Crescente, in Franklin Township for $170,000.00. Joseph Mackachinis to MAC PROP Partners, in Lenox Township for $173,400.00. Louise F. (estate) and Eugene Baldwin, Cheryl Keisling and Connie Brown to Michael Paul Fissler, in Rush Township for $85,000.00. Frank C., Jr. (AKA) Frank (AKA) Frank, Jr. Grick to Kenneth C. and Linda Matthews, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Richard D., Jr., Tracy L. and Stephen F. Holgash to Rosalind Hammer, in Silver Lake Township for $7,700.00. Anne L. Simpson (estate) to Anne L. Simpson (trust), in Springville Township for one dollar. Anne L. Simpson (by trustee), Gaye Simpson and Dale Robert Dorsey to George and Brenda Loubet, in Springville Township for $105,000.00. Duane L. Schell (estate) to William Allen and Lisa Martin, in Forest Lake Township for one dollar. Turn One Minerals LP to Marcellus Minerals Appraisers, Inc., in Liberty and Silver Lake Townships for one dollar. Raymond Charles and Jeanine Marie Warriner to Raymond Charles Warriner, in Dimock Township for $124,300.00. Lois Rundell to Jeneane Fugel, in Rush Township for one dollar. Diane C. and Mark W. Smith to Tobias C. Percario and Amy Newhart Percario, in Hallstead Borough for one dollar. Barbara E. Wheeler to Christine J. and David M. Hall, in New Milford Township for one dollar. Jeffrey L. and Barbara J. Hollister to Daniel J. and Nicole L. Zaleski, in Montrose for $150,000.00. Connie Lee Goff to Herbert J. and Mary E. Waterman and Agnes E. Bordner, in Bridgewater Township for $164,000.00. Justin J. and Hillary Bishop to Elizabeth Ann Hall, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Elizabeth Ann Hall to Justin J. Bishop, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Elizabeth Ann Hall to Elizabeth Ann Hall, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Elizabeth Ann Hall to Elizabeth Ann Hall, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Sally Ann and Stanton E. Carvin to James E. and Leslie J. Henry, in New Milford Borough for $85,000.00. Jeremy D. Harris to Charles and Susan Zellner, in Silver Lake Township for $135,000.00. Michael A. and Rodrica T. Poster (AKA) Rodrica Tilley to Diaz Family Limited Partnership, in Bridgewater Township for $350,000.00. Charles W., Jr. and Martha G. Scott to Scottland Farm Limited Partnership, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. Richard C. Higgins (trust by trustee) to Richard C. Higgins (trust), in Harford Township for one dollar. Lawrence (by sheriff) and Mary E. (by sheriff) Rudock to Interstate Advisors LLC, in Hallstead Borough for $5,068.11. Daniel Francis Vinsko, Jr. and Dale Wirkus to Sara Verboys, in Oakland Borough for $64,000.00. Donald H. Adams to Donald R. Adams, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Howard I. Smith to Kevin R. Moeller and Janet M. Weiss, in Harford Township for $90,000.00. Karen M. Grubb to Karen M. Grubb, in New Milford Township for one dollar. Todd C. Lane to Todd C. Lane, in New Milford Township for $10.00. BENCH WARRANTS The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has bench warrants for the following individuals as of 10:50 a.m. on May 20, 2011. Douglas Buckman, Howard A. Burns, III, James J. Corridoni, Randall L. Cox, John C. Creps, Heather R. DeBoer, Charles S. Dunn, John F. Feeley, David J. Fischer, David Haines, Jr., William Neil Hendrickson, Melinda Holbrook, Shannon J. Hollister, Steven L. Jones, Christopher J. Kingsbury, Eric C. Kohlhepp, Erik E. Krisovitch, Lee Labor, Casey J. Lawton, Charlie J. Legere, Carlos L. Leiser, Jason Lindquist, Michael Maryasz, Mark C. McCarey, Jennifer M. Miller, Matthew S. Miller, Donald Palmer, Jeremy Presson, Arthur D. Quick, David J. Shiner, Jerome Slick, Eric J. Snell, Justin Thompson, Robert J. Twilley, Steven G. Warner, Steven G. Wormuth. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.
Gibson Barracks Report BURGLARY Between the 13th and 14th of May, between 1:30 p.m. and 1:00 a.m., the garage of Robert Watson of South Gibson was broken into, and cash stolen from within it. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154 and reference incident number R05-0806905. THEFT On May 17, sometime between 7:45 and 8:30 a.m., an Apple i-pod touch was stolen from a female student at the Blue Ridge Middle School. The incident occurred during her first period class. The i-pod was painted green and white on the back. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. HARASSMENT On May 16 at approximately 9:45 p.m., John Turner of Montrose was drinking beer with a Montrose woman at the Montrose Terrace Trailer Park in Bridgewater Township when he struck the woman in the head, fleeing the scene prior to PSP arrival. Summary charges of harassment were filed through district court 34-2-01 as of the time of report. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Sometime between September 26 and May 9 two tires belonging to Michael Carkin of Zephar Hills, FL were punctured while his golf cart was parked on Creek Road in New Milford Township. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. DUI On May 16 at 1:11 a.m. Anthea Fulkerson of Clifford Township displayed signs of intoxication while in physical control of a motor vehicle. The incident occurred on SR 106 in Clifford Township. Charges were pending for violations of PAVC as of the time of report. CRASH On May 7 at 4:53 p.m. Evan Sommers of Kensington, MD was traveling in the passing lane of Interstate 81 in Great Bend Township when, while passing John Vansteenburg of Greene, NY he applied the brakes and began to lose control of his vehicle. This in turn veered into the right lane and struck the other vehicle. Both units began to slide clockwise, the offending vehicle coming to a rest facing south in the middle of both lanes and the other impacting a guide rail before coming to rest facing a north direction against that rail. No injuries were reported to the trooper at the scene; all involved were utilizing seat belts. Assistance was provided at the scene by Great Bend/Hallstead Fire Company and Ambulance. Sommers was to have charges filed in district court 34-3-02. CRASH On May 15 at 2:53 p.m. Terry White of North Richland Hills, TX was traveling on SR 0706 in Bridgewater Township when, while slowing and pulling to the side of the roadway to allow traffic to pass, the ground gave way. The truck rolled over and came to rest on the driver's side facing east. No injuries were reported to the trooper; a seat belt was in use. Assistance was provided at the scene by United Fire Company. A citation was issued to White at the scene. COMMERCIAL VEHICLE On May 13 at 2:54 p.m. William Wylie of Wilkes Barre was traveling north on SR 29 in Bridgewater Township when he failed to negotiate a curve, traveling off the east berm and impacting a fence, utility wires, and several trees. Wylie was operating a International Harvester 4400 at the time. He was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash; he sustained moderate injury. A citation was to be given as a result of this investigation, as of the time of report. THEFT - RETAIL On may 13 at 12:45 a.m. a drive-off occurred at the Liberty Truck Plaza in Harford Township in the amount of $46.70; the investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. THEFT - UNAUTHORIZED USE OF MOTOR VEHICLE On May 9 between 11:30 and 12:30 a.m. Todd Slater of the Hop Bottom area removed and utilized a 1989, red, Chevrolet Cavalier displaying PA registration plate of HRB0052 from in front of a location on SR 2009 in Lathrop Township. This was done without authorization from the vehicle's owner. The perpetrator, whose name was withheld due to the ongoing investigation, returned the vehicle, damaged, to GJ&S Salvage, owned by Gary Underhill, whereat it was recovered. THEFT BY UNLAWFUL TAKING OR DISPOSITION Sometime between April 28 and May 10, six steel guide rail posts were removed form Church Hill Road near the dam in Harmony Township. The posts were placed in the ground to hold steel i-beams. The posts were used on the bridge section of the roadway. POSSESSION OF A SMALL AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA On May 5 at 12:10 Mary Mctiernan of Binghamton, NY was operating a 2004 black Mercedes-Benz and was stopped for a motor vehicle violation. The incident occurred in Great Bend Township, on Interstate 81. Indicators of criminal activity were present. Consent to search was requested and granted. The search yielded a clear plastic bag containing marijuana. The accused was processed and released; charges were filed at district court 34-3-02. CRASH On May 10 at 6:10 a.m. Brandon Noldy of Hop Bottom was traveling southbound on SR 4007 in Bridgewater Township when he failed to negotiate a right hand curve, exited the roadway off the east berm, and struck a tree. The vehicle came to a rest at that location. Damage was to the front of the vehicle. A seatbelt was in use; Noldy was not injured. CRASH On May 5 at 10:10 p.m. Ramon Paredes-Johnson of New Brunswick, NJ was traveling north on SR 81 in New Milford Borough when, while trying to avoid a pothole in the roadway, he lost control of his vehicle. The Toyota traveled across the grass median and struck a ditch, then continued across both lanes of southbound 81, continued down an embankment on the west side, and came to a rest facing north on the embankment. A seatbelt was in use; a minor injury was sustained. THEFT On May 4, between midnight and 10:30 a.m., Douglas Vandandt of Windsor, NY reported his prescription medication was taken without his authorization. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF Between May 4 and May 9, symbols were spray painted on the side of a Tingley Lake Road victim's house and mailbox post. THEFT Between April 23 and 24, a black mailbox belonging to William Jenkins of Kingsley was stolen from a post at the end of his driveway. THEFT On May 1 between 1 a.m. and 4 p.m. a hose attached to a sub pump belonging to Rosemary Phillips of Nicholson was stolen from a location in Lathrop Township. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. RAPE Michael Mead of Montrose is accused of having intercourse with a juvenile female. THEFT Between May 7 and 9 the batteries were removed out of 5 water trucks parked at a location on SR 11 in Great Bend Township, prior to the scene being fled. The trucks belonged to Suit-Kote corporation of Hallstead, PA. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF On May 6 an egg was thrown at the 2011 Dodge truck of Jeffrey Ciraula of Montrose. The truck at the time was traveling on SR 29 in Bridgewater Township. The egg chipped the paint. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. If you have information regarding any of these incidents please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.
NM Twp. Talks Landfills, Sheds At the May 18 New Milford Township meeting, the topics covered ran the gamut from a cinder shed grant to landfill concerns. Various other items of note occurred as well. In regards to the natural gas influx, Mr. Hunter said that he thought the seismic testing was already out of the area, finishing off lower Montrose Road. The solicitors had also received notification that DEP had given Southwest permission to start on Pad 30, off of Houlihan Road. That was the only pad which DEP had granted permission for thus far, in that area. Near the end of the meeting, a visitor spoke about these pads, which the company was trying to put up near the Lyncott landfill. A visitor expressed his concern regarding this, and the traffic this may bring. Mr. Hunter said that this topic had already been addressed, which is why there were 19 of them up on that hill for a meeting one day. The visitor asked what DEP had to say about the subject, asking if they weren't concerned. Mr. Hunter replied that DEP did have concerns. He thought that there was a chance that they would not allow pad 19 to even happen where it was planned, so that they would not even need to be on Lyncott property. Pad 18 was the only pad which was planned to be on the landfill, but even that had been right by the fence at the end of the road. Mr. Conroy stated that they had been talking, and they stated that they did not want to disturb any dirt. This raised the question as to how they could participate in the work they did and not disturb dirt. Mr. Hunter reported that there had been a meeting with the Bluestone pipe company, and they were given all of the water readouts and warned that this was a problem area. In other news, the S10 pickup was sold for $400. Also, “bids” were opened for liquid calcium, mc30, and edp. As the bid from Suit-Kote was the only one received, it was accepted. Several years ago the supervisors had applied for a $300,000 grant to put up a cinder shed and a garage. The township had recently been notified that it was awarded a $150,000 grant instead, and was planning to put out to bid for the buildings. The specifications stipulated a 65 ft. x 100 ft. cinder shed, while the maintenance garage would take the place of the old cinder building and be 50 ft. x 80 ft. The latter should have four bays in it for parking. A visitor asked if the supervisors thought they could put up both buildings with that amount of money. It was responded that they did not think it could, but the cinder shed would take preference and then a shell would be put up for the maintenance building with the leftover money, to be finished as additional funds were procured. There was to be a pre-bid meeting on May 31. The supervisors said that they had the dimensions, but didn't want to put out their own specs because everyone has their own way of doing things to save money. Since the money was granted through DCED, the supervisors had to put out for a CPA to check the process. The dimensions, however, were set by the grant and could not be deviated from. It was stated that the contract with DCED stipulated that if they deviated from the contract they risked the forfeiture and potential repayment of the funds. The bids would be opened at the meeting, but would not be accepted until one o'clock the next day. This would provide time for the bids to be considered, and for the codes worker to examine the documents. A road agreement was drafted by Mr. Briechle, which Pioneer Drilling had signed. They have one piece of equipment which they use on the township road. When the supervisors were at PSATS, it had been suggested that if a company comes into the township they ought to have a road agreement with them. The supervisors said that they were working on one with Southwestern as well. DEP permitted a small non-coal mining permit for Lacey quarry operation, off of Cudo Road. This was just notification. The supervisors announced their intention to pass a resolution for administrative UCC fees. The township secretary read the resolution aloud, stating that they sought to impose an administrative fee equal to an additional 10% of total fees charged for ucc permits. The purpose was to recoup the township's costs for faxing, copying, and so on. Every time someone called and asked for a permit, she explained, it cost the township five dollars to send it priority mail. Mr. Hunter said the township wasn't trying to get rich off of it, just to recover costs.
Hallstead Ball Field Project Progressing It was reported at the May 19 Hallstead Boro Council meeting that work on the ball field improvement project is progressing. Permits for the new building have been applied for and are expected to be approved shortly. There was one other item discussed regarding the ball field. In the interest of good community relations, the boro has allowed a business adjacent to the ball field to use some of the property for parking. But, at a recent ball game, a school bus from another school district parked alongside the field on what is thought to be the boro’s property. A representative of the business was not so friendly, and demanded that the bus be moved. After discussion, council agreed that it would be necessary to have the property surveyed to determine just where the boundary line is. A motion carried to approve. In other business, a motion carried to approve digging test holes to determine where the drain pipes is located near a Fourth Ave. property that has been experiencing flooding whenever it rains. It was agreed to contact PennDOT about some road issues at several sites. And, a motion carried to approve purchase of eight speed limit signs, for Pine Hill, Fourth Ave., Chase Ave., and New York Ave. Correspondence included a letter from Montrose Boro requesting use of Hallstead’s fire police for their annual parade, and a letter from the Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau requesting a per capita donation of ten cents. And, a motion carried to contribute $200 to the Blue Ridge Recreation summer program, as the boro does every year. The next meeting will be on Thursday, June 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Following is the Susquehanna County sentencing report for May 2011 as submitted by the county District Attorney’s office. Michael Alan Disinger, 40, of Montrose, to 4 1/4 months to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $750 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act Fee, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, not to have contact with children, schools or parks for Failure to Comply with Registration of Sexual Offender Requirements in Gibson Township on March 31, 2011. David Clark Pickering, 37, of Susquehanna, to 30 days to 6 months in 30 days to 6 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $750 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198 fee, pay $100 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, complete safe driving school program, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation for Driving Under the Influence in Oakland Township on August 15, 2010. Kristopher William Shimer, 24, of Montrose, to 30 days to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, receive drug and alcohol counseling, pay restitution to the victims in the case, not to have contact with the victim in the case, pay $300 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay cost of prosecution for Terroristic Threats in Susquehanna Borough on January 6, 2011. Mr. Shimer also received 15 days to 30 days in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility to run concurrent to the above sentence, pay $100 fine, pay $100 Act 198 fee, pay cost of prosecution, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation for Possession of a Controlled Substance in New Milford Township on January 7, 2011. Randy Steven Lawrence, 23, of Montrose, to 5 years to 10 years in a state correctional facility, followed by 7 years probation, receive a Sexual Offenders Evaluation and Treatment, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, not to have contact with the victim, pay $1,000 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay cost of prosecution, for Criminal Attempt/Rape in Bridgewater Township on July 5, 2010. Christopher Sabatell, 44, of Montrose, to 3 months to 15 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $350 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, continue with psychiatric care, pay restitution to the victim, not to have contact with the victim’s business for Retail Theft in Susquehanna Borough on August 26, 2010. William Robert Deacon, Jr., 32, of Montrose, to 12 months to 36 months in a state correctional facility to run concurrent with other cases, pay $300 Act 198 fee, pay $200 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay $2,500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages, not to enter any establishment whose sole purpose is the sale of alcohol for Driving Under the Influence in Harford Township on June 17, 2010. Mr. Deacon also received 12 months to 36 months in a state correctional facility to run concurrent with other cases, pay $300 Act 198 fee, pay $200 CAT surcharge, pay $10 EMS, pay $2,500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, not to possess, transport or consume alcoholic beverages, not to enter any establishment whose sole purpose is the sale of alcohol for Driving Under the Influence in Dimock Township on July 23, 2010.
Elk Lake Audits Reviewed The May 19 Elk Lake and Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center board meetings opened with a presentation by Paul Murphy of Murphy Dougherty and Company, the district's auditors. He began with the career center's report. They received a clean opinion, meaning that the statements were an accurate representation of the financial situation. The district had budgeted just over 3 million dollars revenues, and had received around $389,250 less than this. Tuition had been budgeted to come in at $1.9 million, but had come in instead at just over $1.6. This was an increase from the year prior, just not as large as expected. Not all of this money was lost however, as the district had held expenditures to the line, and saved $2,000,000 overall. The fund balance then was expected to be left at $199,000, which represented 7%, which he felt to be alright. The goal was generally 8%, but 7 wasn't bad. The district did decrease, but he said it wasn't too scary. Elk Lake also had a clean opinion. Revenues had been anticipated to come in at $18.3 million, and had come in at $18.2, down $128,550 overall. Current real estate taxes and delinquent taxes had come in better than anticipated - people paid them. State sources were down $1.4 million dollars, but this was misleading because the state had mixed some federal money in to offset its difficulties. The auditors had to separate this out, however. The district only spent $16.2 million, lower than budgeted. Toward this end it saved $1.5 million. The general fund was up $1,417,899 then, and had a balance of $3.2 million. Mr. Murphy spoke about the boards decision some years ago to save money to offset the looming PSERS retirement crisis, and had $1.8 million set aside. He called the board very prudent in saving for the future. He recommended, though, that it pass a GASB 54 resolution. The Government Accounting Standards Board had just changed its regulations, to alter terminology. The money which was set aside had been “designated,” that term was no longer valid. He suggested changing it to “committed.” This would mean the money had to be used for that purpose, though the board could change it with another resolution. If they did nothing, he stated, the money would have to go back into the fund balance, and the district then would be unable to raise taxes the next year because it would have over 8% in that account. Later, in the Elk Lake meeting, the board took his advice, and passed the resolution. There was some discussion as to how long that money could insulate the district. Mr. Murphy said that the district could theoretically hold the budget as was with PSERS contributions, and be alright until 2015 if it so desired. However, this was generally not considered something wise to do, but it was felt that to increase the retirement allotment gradually would be preferable. Dr. Davis in her report reported that graduation would be June 9, and that at the awards ceremony over $10,000 of awards had been given. Mr. Place then mentioned an award which Dr. Davis herself had received, and congratulated her on it. Both the school calendar and the adult tuition rates were approved. There was no change in the tuition. During the Elk Lake meeting, various items of administrative business were dealt with first. A letter was read from Child Evangelism Fellowship thanking the board for allowing that organization to hold religious instruction classes at the school. There were more than 20 students in each of the two sections, grades 1-2 and 3-6 respectively. The group was requesting permission to offer them again, and received it. Mrs. McGee spoke up in favor of the decision, calling it a wonderful program. The Elk Lake Educational Support Personnel Association had sent a letter as well, stating its intention to use part of this year's scholarship money to offset dual enrollment costs for seniors. The board thanked Mrs. Heed, who was present at the meeting, for this gesture. Priscilla Carey had asked Dr. Bush to hand in her retirement letter in person. She had, she said, walked through the library doors 34 years ago, and reviewed the various positions she had held since. Eventually she had settled as the elementary office secretary, and spoke of the times she had seen former students bring their own children to kindergarten registration, and seen former kindergarten students return to work at the school. With audible emotion, she called the school her second home and second family, and thanked those present for the honor and privilege of working there. Dr. Bush and Mr. Place hugged her when she handed the letter over, and she stated that she did not plan on leaving completely but would volunteer in classes and chaperone school trips. It was said that the school and Mr. Pironne would miss her, and it was jokingly wondered if she would have to stay were they not to accept the resignation. In the end this is what they did, with regret. A visitor spoke up then, pointing out the compliment Mrs. Carey had given when she referred to the office door as “my elementary door,” feeling an ownership and part of the school. The administrative reports then followed. Mr. Mallery spoke of events coming up, including a motorcycle safety program and talent show. The track team had received 5 medals, and some were to continue on to states. Mr. Blaisure was to attend a seeding meeting for baseball and softball, to plan out the schedule for the rest of the season after weather concerns. Mrs. Staats said that the life skills class had helped with summer plantings at Felix's Garden Center, and that Felix's had appreciated the help. She also reported that she had been required to survey special education seniors the year prior, and then to check on them this year. Of the 16 surveyed, 4 were continuing their education, 8 were working, and 4 she hadn't been able to get in contact with. Dr. Cumo said that approximately $69,000 had been given out at senior awards night in scholarship money. Commencement was scheduled for June 11, and would include four students planning on entering the military. Mr. Pirone spoke of the success of the grandparent program. Next year, he said, it was hoped that the district could start early, and have a parent program. Great thanks, he said, were to be given to the cafeteria and others for their support. In total, 150 grandparents had participated. They had complimented the school food and seemed to really enjoy the program. The number one comment he received, he said, was that they couldn't believe what the students were ready, the second that they hadn't done that level of math until two years later. The district had information on its Title 1 allotment for the next year, with only about a $4000 difference (from $344,409 to $399, 577). He gave credit to the PARS organization for its work in lobbying. The House Representatives, it was explained, had introduced a budget themselves which looked to restore much of the block grants to the school. These are important to kindergarten and pre-kindergarten programs. An update was given on the traffic situation, discussed at a prior meeting. She felt it would be safer in. Mr. Place had sat and watched the morning drop off the other day, and had seen children being dropped out of both sides of vehicles, and vehicles being double parked, both of which represented dangers. Dr. Bush announced that they had looked at wrapping the driveway around the playground, and had talked to Mr. Krapcho about it. It was felt that they might be able to solve the problem by paving parents come in as they currently do, but then continue down to the gas and oil road, and use that as an exit. It was planned that Cabot would be spoke with regarding this idea. A visitor asked if perhaps this could be reversed, so that cars came in that road. This would allow them to have the students exit on the building side, and eliminate the danger of the Cabot road being around a blind curve on the exit side. Dr. Cuomo pointed out that by exiting via this road there would only be one way traffic, which Mr. Place agreed would be beneficial. Mrs. Staats mentioned the fact that the special education vans have to unload one at a time, and visitors wouldn't want to wait behind them. When someone asked about the problems with gas and oil vehicles, it was suggested that they would restrict the times they traveled. The company had worked with the district already. It was clarified that this was a PennDOT approved road. The NEIU, it was reported, had chosen an executive director. Dr. Clarence Lamanna had been acting as the executive director, and would continue in the role. He had spent years as the director of special education. Mrs. Teel spoke very highly of the county band concert. A reporter concurred with this assessment, and spoke of Mr. Cooper.
State Police Arrest Jason Aronowitz At approximately 1:20 a.m. on May 20, Michael Reid, Hallstead, PA was shot in the abdomen with a handgun. Through the Pennsylvania State Police at Gibson investigation it was learned that Jason Aronowitz, 42, New Milford, shot Reid with a .45 caliber handgun. An altercation started with Aronowitz and other patrons of the Parkview Hotel, which led to the shooting. Reid was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital, Binghamton, NY for treatment. An arrest warrant for Criminal Attempt Homicide, Aggravated Assault and Possessing Instruments of Crime was obtained for Aronowitz. Aronowitz was arrested by members of PSP Gibson and was taken into custody without incident. He was remanded to the Susquehanna County Correctional Facility. Bail was denied.
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