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HEADLINES: With summer projects moving forward, the Blue Ridge School District expects to begin classes in August with fewer than 1,000 students for the first time. Total enrollment has declined from just over 1,100 in the school year just concluded. Elementary School Principal Matthew Button said that enrollment in kindergarten for 4-year-olds will probably top 60, and that new families arrive occasionally, mostly renting, presumably related to the natural gas development. School Board member Laurie Brown-Bonner even mentioned that some Pennsylvania school districts are investigating 4-day weeks. So far, however, Blue Ridge remains on its plotted course, and at its meeting on July 25, the School Board approved some contracts to keep the momentum going. Boland Excavating of Conklin, NY was awarded a contract worth $145,000 for paving and drainage work behind the Elementary School. This should be the last of the major summer projects, which Business Manager Loren Small said would all be completed by the opening of school late next month. There may be fewer students, but they have to eat nonetheless. So the Board approved bids from Butter Krust Baking of Sunbury, PA, and DiRienzo Brothers of Binghamton, NY to supply bread products for the new school year. Hartt Dairy of Susquehanna was awarded the contract as the low bidder to supply dairy products. A list of vendors of athletic supplies was tabled for more detailed review and will be considered again at the next meeting. Among other routine personnel actions, the Board accepted the resignations of John Scavone and Elizabeth Holtzman with regret, and approved long lists of instructional substitutes, “co-curricular” positions (mostly coaching), and “Exhibit B” positions (club advisors and the like). Some of the appointments were for volunteers; others are paid positions. The Exhibit B positions are defined in the contract with the Blue Ridge Education Association and are generally filled by teachers. Following an executive session, the Board added an item to the agenda and appointed Barbara McCain as Special Education Coordinator. Ms. McCain has had the title of Acting Special Education Director since the departure of Mark Fallon. The meaning of the change from Director to Coordinator is unclear so far. Sue Graham was transferred from High School math to become a 7th-grade Middle School math teacher. The open High School math position will be posted. And Betty Cook is reassigned from Middle School office clerk to secondary life-skills paraeducator. After reviewing applications and certifications of eligibility by the Veterans Administration and the state, the Board granted 100% exemption from property taxes for 2 disabled veterans. According to Board President Alan Hall, veterans seeking such exemption may make application through the Veterans Administration. Once granted, the exemption is permanent. The Board selected Mr. Hall and Ms. Brown-Bonner as its voting delegates to the October legislative policy council session during the annual PSBA conference in Hershey. The PSBA - Pennsylvania School Boards Association - is the lobbying organization for Pennsylvania public school boards in Harrisburg. Mr. Hall is a PSBA regional board member. He told his colleagues that he will be testifying in August before a panel of the state House of Representatives studying school funding. The Board moved to send career technology students to the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County beginning with the new school year. Cosmetology students will attend the Empire Beauty School. Until now all Blue Ridge students in vocational technology programs attended the Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center (SCCTC) at Elk Lake. One parent attending the meeting pleaded with the Board to reconsider the decision. Marshalling a variety of arguments in favor of the Susquehanna County center and against the longer trip to Lackawanna County, the parent noted that her daughter has an individual education plan (IEP) which she would use to demand that she be allowed to attend SCCTC. She said that SCCTC provided the book used in her daughter’s studies, but that Empire required students to buy the $400 text. And because Blue Ridge is in a consortium that directs the SCCTC, would the district have to withdraw in order to make the change? Blue Ridge Superintendent Robert McTiernan said that, while the district is in the SCCTC “enrollment area,” Blue Ridge is not actually a member of the consortium. He also reported that the Empire school would ensure that there would be no additional cost for Blue Ridge students - aside from the additional travel time. Board member Christina Whitney said that, as a professional in the career development area, she is very familiar with both the SCCTC and Lackawanna County programs, and she considers the latter superior. She said that the instruction at Lackawanna County is “more intense,” “more focused,” and provides more instructional time than the Elk Lake school. She called the move “a wonderful opportunity,” and the Board agreed with her, approving the switch unanimously. Middle/High School Principal Matthew Nebzydoski reported that several students who completed summer school successfully were delighted to receive their delayed graduation diplomas. And Mr. McTiernan read a note from a student who thanked the Board for supporting attendance at a Youth Leadership Conference in Washington, DC. The next scheduled public meeting of the Blue Ridge School Board - the only meeting for the month - will be on Monday, August 15, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The July meeting was postponed for a week from its originally scheduled date to allow contract bids to be reviewed. And some committees meet before the scheduled Board meeting. So check the district’s website for the latest information. All meetings are held in the cafeteria in the Elementary School. Elk Lake To Join Montrose Football The Elk Lake and SCCTC board meetings on July 28 were fairly short. With many of the administrators absent due to other commitments, their reports were few but there were several other items of business dealt with. The Susquehanna County Farm Bureau wrote to the board, discussing policy meetings held around the area, with the policies then being voted on in the fall at the SSFB fall dinner meeting. They were also in the process of reviewing the local policies book. Policies pertaining to the school district had been sent to the district with the letter. Dr. Bush assured that organization that they were interested in the further discussion, and potential grant opportunities. Dr. Bush spoke of the elementary summer reading program, which had concluded that day. He said that it had been a very positive experience, and this was the first summer transportation had been available for some of the students. The district was looking forward to the next year's program, he said, and potentially expanding it. The motion was made and approved that the lunch prices be able to be maintained at the levels of the previous year. Dr. Bush called it a benefit to the community to keep them at their current level. There had been attempts to transfer the breakfast to the secondary level, he reported when the status of the program was queried, but there had been some time hurdles. The administration was going to try some ideas for the next year, however, including potentially packaging food, and letting students eat who had first period study halls. The substitute list was approved, for all departments The lifeguard list was approved as well. The RTI position was filled, with Jamie Kintner receiving the position. A special education position was filled as well, with Katherine Lucenti receiving that. There was some discussion regarding the substitute list, and how the positions were approved. There were quite a few candidates on it for approval. The title one budget was discussed. It was very similar to the previous year's he said, in terms of total amount, though there had been a slight reduction of about $4,000 total. The largest change was the elementary salary. The difference was because one of the instructors had been pulled out. The title one staff was reviewed as well, with Dr. Bush commending them for doing an outstanding job. They had, he said, taken on the bulk of the RTI program the previous year. The fuel storage tank out back had been taken care of. The board was happy with the project's outcome. The drug and alcohol agreement was approved, the same as it had been the year before. The second item in that section was the elementary gym floor bids. Of the two bids received, Dr. Bush recommended the board accept the low bid from Jack Devin for $12,450 total. The low bid for the pavilion paving project was Broome Bitumonous at $119,840. This project included the path around the pavilion and down to the gas road. An athletic agreement was broached, being a request for a cooperative sponsorship of a sport, looking to cosponsor football with Montrose. This would allow Elk Lake the ability to have their students play football there. The board would look to approve it that night, and Montrose would look to approve it in August. The idea would then be passed on to district 2, which would make a decision and then pass it on to PIAA. If passed it would take effect in the 2012/2013 school year. Mr. Bender wanted to state publicly that the committee looking at this subject had heard nothing but positive comments about the idea. In the Blue Ridge and Susquehanna collaboration, he said, after discussion with their superintendents, they were happy with the arrangement. There was already an agreement with Montrose for swimming, and he felt it to be a good opportunity for the students. The motion passed unanimously. Mr. Tewksbury moved that Mrs. Carr be the board treasurer again, and that that Mr. Emmerich be the voting delegate. The board approved both. In response to a query by Mr. Emmerich, Dr. Bush responded that the sports physical requirements had changed to be much more time consuming. The district, then, had elected to not offer physicals at the school. No students would have to visit the family physicians. The one physical would be good for three seasons. The longer time was due to a test for a heart defect. An AYP report was reviewed. The district made AYP at both levels. The benchmarks had increased this year, and were slated to do the same. The district was in a good position to try and meet the levels the next year, Dr. Bush said, but it was getting difficult. There was then some slight discussion over the audits on school districts (not Elk Lake). The Cabot royalty payments were mentioned, and numbers provided. The October meeting was moved to the 13th, due to a PSBA even where Mr. Tewksbury may be honored. A motion was made and seconded that the board be allowed to award bids which were slated to come in between meetings. The motion was made. The vote was positive. Courthouse Report DEEDS Joseph R., Marilyn A. (AKA) Marilyn, Ralph and Dorothy L. Verrastro; Linda R. and Charles J., Jr. Bucci to Charles J., Jr. and Linda R. Bucci and Joseph R. and Marilyn Verrastro, in New Milford Township for one dollar. Patrick K. and Dawn D. Astleford to Dale Gerfin, in Lenox Township for $120,000.00. Robert A. and Kathleen Sue Borove to Patrick K. and Dawn D. Astleford, in Lenox Township for $154,900.00. Edwin H. Dipple, Jr. (estate) to Edwin H. Dipple, Jr. (estate), in Harford Township for one dollar. Elizabeth I. and Samuel Amplo to Elizabeth I. and Samuel Amplo, in Jessup Township for one dollar. Mark A. and Brenda L. Henry to Amy Peckins, in Bridgewater Township for $132,500.00. Arden L. MacGeorge to Lillian W. Jayne, in Rush Township for $50,000.00. Marianne Lukus, Karen Valentine, Marlies Gregory and Linda Andzulus to Marlies Gregory, in Lenox Township for one dollar. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to Henry J. Wesolowski, in Liberty Township for $95,000.00. Jeanette D. Ragucci and Dennis D. Donhauser to D & R Family LLC, in Liberty Township for $10.00. Shawn R. and Julie D. Burns to Lisa Y. Colwell and Jessica R. Coulombe, in Susquehanna for $5,000.00. World for Christ Crusade, Inc. to World for Christ Crusade, Inc., in Dimock Township for one dollar. George W. Belcher to Travis E. and Kim C. Mills, in Gibson Township for $18,000.00. Norman Norton, Jr. and Christopher W. Gennarelli to Andre & Son, Inc., in Hallstead Borough and Great Bend Township for $40,000.00. Norman Norton, Jr. and Christopher W. Gennarelli to Andre & Son, Inc., in Hallstead Borough for $5,500.00. Ira T. Reynolds (estate) to Thomas J. and Christine Chamberlain, in Susquehanna for $6,200.00. Stoney Creek Club, Inc. (AKA) Stony Creek Club to Stone Street Farm LLC, in Forest Lake Township for $12,015.00. Richard J. and Lisa L. Robinson to Willow Dale LLC, in Springville Township for one dollar. Joyce Amisano to James D. Lamuraglia (IRA by custodian) and Equity Trust Company, in Forest Lake Township for $32,500.00. Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr. and Donna M. Fekette to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in New Milford Township for one dollar. Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr. and Donna M. Fekette to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in New Milford Township for one dollar. Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr. to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in New Milford Township for one dollar. Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr. and Donna M. Fekette to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in Clifford Township for one dollar. Donna Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in Franklin Township for one dollar. Thomas J. Lopatofsky and Donna Fekette to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr. in Harford Township for one dollar. Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr. to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in Clifford Township for one dollar. Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr. to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in Ararat Township for one dollar. Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr. to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in Gibson Township for one dollar. Donna Fekette and Thomas Lopatofsky to Donna M. Fekette and Thomas J. Lopatofsky, Jr., in Thompson Township for one dollar. Thomas and Sara Traver to Darren T. Traver and Darcy A. Chew, in Dimock Township for one dollar. Paul M., Sr. and Sharon Augenti to Greg L. and Amanda M. Campbell, in Auburn Township for $550,000.00. Wayne J. Horvath to Wayne J. Horvath and Lei Yun Chun, in Harmony Township and Lanesboro Borough for one dollar. W. Douglas, Marcia G., Donald H. and Barbara Holdren to W. Douglas and Donald H. Holdren, in Auburn Township for one dollar. Scott Bender and Deanna Hickey to John D. and Jennifer L. Gregory, in Silver Lake Township for $210,000.00. Patricia D. and David M. Harasymczuk; Linda S. and Thomas W., Jr. Teal; Carol M. Kass and John Contro; and Steven J. Kass to David M. and Patricia Harasymczuk; Carol M. Kass and John Contro; Steven J. Kass; Linda S. and Thomas W., Jr. Teal, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Irena Gutkowski to Irena Gutkowski and Eva Olszewski, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. BHCH Mineral LTD, Fredericksburg Royalty LTD, Peacock Paradox LLC, DFP Investments LTD, FFP Investments LTD and Dawiel LLC to Prairie Mineral Company LLC, in Great Bend Township for $5.00. Robert O., Donna J. and John L. (estate) Koons to Robert O. Koons, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar. BHCH Mineral LTD, Fredericksburg Royalty LTD, Peacock Paradox LLC, DFP Investments LTD, FFP Investments LTD and Dawiel LLC to Marcellus TX Mineral Partners LTD, in Great Bend Township for $5.00. Raymond G., Jr. and Sharon A. Miller to Raymond G., Jr. (trust) and Sharon A. (trust) Miller, in Lenox and Lathrop Townships for one dollar. Margaret Welch to Jeffrey S. and Brenda Lee Marlowe, in Friendsville Borough for $42,000.00. Leonard J., Jr. and Anastasia M. Kalechitz to Leonard J., Jr. and Anastasia M. Kalechitz, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Leonard J., Jr. and Anastasia M. Kalechitz to Leonard J., Jr. and Anastasia M. Kalechitz, in Liberty Township for one dollar. Susan McDonald (by atty) to James N. Berry, in Herrick Township for $1,000.00. Christel M. Berg to Joseph J., Jr. and David B. Svecz, in Herrick Township for $3,000.00. David N. Carlson to Beckoning Acres LLC, in Silver Lake Township for $47,000.00. East Jermyn Sportsmans Club of Jermyn to LUP LLC, in Harmony Township for $235,000.00. Ronald A. Titus to Ronald A. Titus, in New Milford Township for one dollar. Herbert Barry Elsner, II to Bear Swamp Forest LLC, in New Milford Township for $99,000.00. BENCH WARRANTS The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has bench warrants for the following individuals as of 10:35 a.m. on July 29, 2011. Craig J.Anderson, Edward R.Ashman, BillieJeanBeemer, Tonya S.Birchard, DouglasBuckman, Howard A.Burns, III, Howard A.Burns, III, Bradley C.Button, DouglasCarey, Jason J.Carroll, Christopher J.Clark, Randall L.Cox, Heather R.DeBoer, Charles S.Dunn, John F.Feeley, David J.Fischer, John S.Frisbie, Jr., DustinGodfrey, DavidHaines, Jr., Shannon J.Hollister, John J. Jenisky, Jr.,Christopher J.Kingsbury, Eric C.Kohlhepp, Erik E.Krisovitch, LeeLabor, Charlie J.Legere, Carlos L.Leiser, Derrick J.Lezinsky, MichaelMaryasz, Joseph C.Mikloiche, Matthew S.Miller, DonaldPalmer, JeremyPresson, Shane M.Repsher, PerryRohan, Roy E.Rosenbaum, David J.Shiner, Peter S.Showalter, Eric J.Snell, GaryTripp, Steven G.Warner, James M.Warner, Thomas A.Whipple, Jr, 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 INDECENT DEVIATE SEXUAL INTERCOURSE WITH A CHILD James Jerauld of Nicholson was interviewed by investigators from the Gibson State Police Criminal Investigation Unit after a now 13 year old female reported that when she was 3 or 4 years old, Jerauld sexually assaulted her while they were living together in their former home on Bartholomew Rd. in Harford Township. As a result of the investigation, it was discovered that on at least one occasion, Jerauld had involuntary sexual intercourse with the victim while watching a pornographic video on television at his residence. As of the time of report, Jerauld was to turn himself in to State Police with his attorney and was to be arraigned before DJ Susanne Brainard in Clifford. Jerauld was charged with Involuntary Sexual Intercourse with a Child, Sexual Assault, and Corruptions of minors. THEFT On July 22 between 10 and 10:30 a.m. oxycodone was removed from a pill container in the kitchen area of a Lathrop Township home. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson. THEFT FROM A MOTOR VEHICLE On July 26 at 10:45 a.m. Christie Sickler of Friendsville parked her maroon 1997 Plymouth Breeze at Smoking Joe's service station in Choconut Township. As she went inside, the vehicle was entered and her purse stolen from within. Inside the purse was a diamond engagement ring. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. HARASSMENT On July 25 at 3 a.m. Randall Austin of Susquehanna is accused of shoving a female victim during an argument in Hallstead Borough. The accused was charged with harassment at MDC 34-3-02 in New Milford, and the investigation was expected to continue as of the time of report. ASSAULT-HARASSMENT On July 25 at 11:30 p.m. two 22 year old women became involved in a verbal dispute that escalated to the point of physical contact. One of the women was reported to have pushed the other; she summoned the police for response surrounding the dispute which resulted in the filing of criminal charges for all parties involved. CRASH On July 24 at 3:45 a.m. an unnamed driver was turning a Chevrolet prizm around at the intersection of SR 3001 and SR 3004 in Auburn Township. The driver misjudged the distance of the intersection and backed into a drainage ditch, causing the vehicle to become stuck. It was drivable once pulled from the ditch by Rt. 6 Auto Body. The driver was not injured. BURGLARY The residence of John Kropa of Hop Bottom was entered on July 20, and loose change and a sawed off 12 gauge shot gun removed from within. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. ASSAULT-HARASSMENT On July 23 at 3:15 a.m. a young Montrose man and woman became involved in a dispute that escalated to the point of physical contact, with the woman striking the man about the cheek and neck. The incident occurred while at a soft ball tournament being held in Bridgewater Township; it is one of several similar in nature responded to by the Pennsylvania State Police during tournament play in that township. Charges were pending for violations of PACC as of the time of report. ASSAULT-HARASSMENT On July 23 at 12:15 a.m. Erica Blanton is accused of striking a juvenile female about the head and neck during a dispute that escalated to the point of physical contact. Charges were pending a of the time of report for violations of PACC. CRASH On July 22 at 2:56 p.m. Nicholas Grover of New Milford was traveling south on SR 267 in Choconut Township when his vehicle blew a right front passenger tire causing it to leave the roadway, strike a utility pole, and proceed to travel in a southerly direction until it entered a ditch. No injures were reported. Both Grover and a passenger were utilizing seat belt. The vehicle was towed to Park's Garage as it had considerable damage to its driver side door and rear quarter panel. In addition, the rear driver side tire was off. DUI On July 9 at 10:41 p.m. Salina Halat of Pleasant Mt. was traveling east on SR 374 in Herrick Township while Laurie Bean of Uniondale was traveling west. The latter vehicle came to a stop on the road and was going to make a right turn on T-582 when Halat failed to negotiate a curve and continued straight, into its lane. Halat struck Bean's vehicle in its front left quarter panel and continued straight into a field. There were no injuries; seat belts were in use. THEFT On July 21 between 2 and 4 p.m. a 10 speed bicycle was stolen off the porch of Keith Cross of Great Bend. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. HARASSMENT On July 21 between 5:07 and 6:21 p.m., an unknown person phoned a Harford woman stating that she was the recipient of a $5,000 home grant. The victim advised the caller that they were not interested, and the caller became belligerent. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. BURGLARY On July 21 between 6:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. the residence of Joseph Mullen of Great Bend was broken into by means of an unlocked window. Once inside, approximately 26 and a gold ring valued at approximately $80 were removed. HARASSMENT On July 16 at 1 a.m. a Montrose woman reported being struck by, and knocked to the ground, by another Montrose woman. A non-traffic citation was filed against the accused at District Court 34-3-01. BURGLARY On July 15, between 7 and 7:17 a.m. Gabriel Maginley is accused of entering the residence of Jody Millard of Montrose by force. Once inside the residence Maginley removed money and an mp3 player from the residence, then departed the scene while the Millard's daughter was sleeping in the rear bedroom. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. Charges were pending as of the time of report. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF: The state police are investigating the possible intentional damage of three seismic wires located at a location in Rush Township on July 19, between 3:45 and 3:55 p.m. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. CRASH On July 19 at 3:00 p.m. Jeffery Sterling of New Milford was traveling on Rt. 11 in Hallstead Borough when he failed to stop and rear ended a vehicle driven by Richard Walworth of Hallstead, who was getting read to turn left. Sterling was charged for Safe Speed and Operating a Vehicle without Financial Responsibility. There were no known injuries; all were utilizing seatbelts except for one passenger and the improper use of a child safety seat. CRASH On July 6 at 10:50 a.m. Bryan Austin of Montrose was traveling west on SR 706 at the same time Bryan Fresquez of Flagstaff, AZ was traveling east. Austin failed to negotiate a right curve in the roadway for no apparent reason and crossed over into the eastbound lane, striking Fresquez's vehicle head on. Austin was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital for unknown injuries; use of safety equipment was unknown as of time of report. Both Frequez and a passenger were utilizing seatbelts; both sustained injuries of unknown severity as of the time of report. Austin was cited for roadways laned for traffic, operating a vehicle with an expired inspection, registration, and no insurance. CRASH On July 7 at 3:05 p.m. Sandra Seamans was traveling south on the mile marker 223 ramp to I81 in New Milford at the same time Andrew Tramontana of Edgewater Park, NJ was traveling south in the right lane of the highway. Seamans merged into the path of Tramontana, failing to yield the right of way and causing a collision. Both parties were utilizing seatbelts; Seamans sustained moderate injury. TRAFFIC CRASH-COMMERCIAL VEHICLE On July 19 at 5:25 a.m. Curvin Good of Narvon, PA was operating a truck owned by Keystone Fence Supplies of Shaefferstown, PA north along SR 81 when he briefly traveled into the median and lost control of the truck. The trailer portion of the unit struck a guardrail end, causing it to flip over. The entire load of wooden fence posts were scattered across the interstate. PSP troopers were initially assisted in opening one lane of travel with the assistance of Clifford Fire Department and numerous helpful motorists. The remaining carnage was cleaned by PennDOT and Kozlowski Towing. No one was injured in the crash. The driver was to receive citations for the traffic violations as of the time of report. THEFT On July 20 between 4 and 4:30 a.m. several solar lights were removed form the property of Conrad Owens of Harford; anyone with information is asked to call PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. CRASH On July 19 at 11:22 p.m. an unnamed driver was traveling west on State Highway 374 in Lenox Township when he or he failed to safely negotiate a curve, reportedly swerving from the path of a deer in the road. The driver was traveling at approximately 60 miles per hour, and was not injured in the crash. The operator was to receive citations for the traffic violations which led to the crash, as of the time of report. CRASH On July 17 at 5:45 a.m. an unnamed driver was traveling East along SR 1039 in Franklin Township when, while attempting to turn north onto Lake Roy Road, he or she failed to negotiate the curve due to traveling at a higher rate of speed than was prudent for a gravel surfaced roadway. The operator was not injured, and was to receive traffic citations for the contributing traffic violation. CRASH On July 19 at 5:35 a.m. Gary Rose of Fishersville, VA was traveling northbound in the passing lane of I81 in Harford Township when the left side of his vehicle left the roadway from the west shoulder. The vehicle traveled approximately 342' before entering a clockwise spin, re-entering the roadway and traveling across both northbound lanes across the shoulder and off the east berm, continuing approximately another 55', and striking a tree. The crash was the result of the driver falling asleep at the wheel. A lap and shoulder belt were in use; no injury was sustained. BURGLARY Between the 9th and 13th of July the residence of Donna Bender of Thompson was approached, and an aluminum row boat removed from the woods. Scrap metal was then taken from the victim's shed and loaded onto the boat to pick up at a later date. The boat was discovered before it could be retrieved. A Savage 20 gauge over/under 22 mag and a Marlin 22 1965 Deer Slayer gun were also removed form the closet in the shed, along with a roll of barbed wire and 2 cases of fly spray. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. BURGLARY A folding camp chair and a Timex wrist watch were stolen from a turn around point on the rails to trails system in Thompson Borough. The items belonged to Carl Albright of Honesdale; anyone with information is asked to please contact the police. BURGLARY A summer cottage belonging to Barbara Boyle of Deland, FL was entered by force, through means of a rear door. The cabin was then occupied for a night, with the couch and bed being slept in. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson. BURGLARY/THEFT A burglary was reported at the cabin of John Lech of Plymouth, wherein several items from the cabin and a shed were removed. Copper wire and pipe were also removed from the cabin, in the process of which the drywall and cabin foundation were damaged. The estimate value of the items taken is $12,600; the estimated value of property damage is $5,000. Anyone with information is asked to call PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. THEFT BY UNLAWFUL TAKING Sometime between July 6 and 7 the residence of Michael Finnan of Lathrop Township was approached, and scrap aluminum wheels, fuel, and scrap catalytic converters removed. Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. PUBLIC DRUNKENNESS On July 17 at 1:08 a.m. troopers were investigating a domestic disturbance outside a Lenox Township location when Kenny Travis of that area, who was intoxicated, became disorderly. Non-traffic citations were filed against the accused at District Court 34-3-03 for Disorderly Conduct and Public Drunkenness. If anyone has information regarding any of these incidents please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154. Commissioners Meet At the July 27 meeting of the Susquehanna County Commissioners, public attendance increased again, surpassing the last meeting - the largest I have witnessed to date. It was also one of the longest in time. Commissioner Warren called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. in the Lower Conference room in the County Office Building. Commissioners Allen and Giangrieco were also present, and they recited the "Pledge of Allegiance" along with all in attendance. They motioned (to the nearest dollar) to ratify or approve a total of $755,837.00 starting from 07/13/2011 through 07/25/2011 of which $674,427.00 is allotted to "Expenses." From this total, $496,972 for General Expenses, $177,455.00 for Payroll, and $69,979.00 for CYS. They ratified a total of $81,410.00 for "EFTPS" of which $14,955.00 is for Employee Retirement, $7,620.00 for State Withholding, and $58,835.00 for Federal Payroll taxes. They motioned to approve the following seminar requests and/or payment for seminar requests starting from July 28, 2011 until October 21, 2011. The following are at no cost to the county: John Lester, Probation, State College, Juvenile Case Management System User's Group Meeting, total cost $126.00; Lisa Vail, Probation, Wilkes-Barre, Treating Compulsive Sexual Behaviors, total cost $247.00; Jeffrey Shoemaker, Probation, State College, Annual Conference-County Chief Adult Probation & Parole Officers Association of Pennsylvania, total cost $650.00; Eric Watkins, Soil Conservation, Wilkes-Barre, Erosion & Sedimentation Pollution Control Manual Training. Kimberly Harshaw, Children & Youth, Mayfield, Sexuality of Children: Health Sexual Behaviors and Behaviors Which Cause Concern, total cost $8.00, cost to the County $1.60; Raymond Totten, Marysa Edwards-Ball and Chad Weaver, Children & Youth, Mayfield, #203 Sexual Abuse Series, total cost $168.00, cost to the County $33.60; Raebelle Taylor and Michele Jerauld, Domestic Relations, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania Child Support Enforcement Training for Administrative Staff, total cost $74.50, cost to the County $25.33; Thomas Yadlosky Jr., Veterans Affairs, Annville, Veterans Service Officer Accreditation/Recertification, cost $290.00; Cathy Benedict and Wanda Travis, Tax Claim, Pocono Manor, Tax Claim Laws and Bankruptcies, cost $1,050.00; Andrew Gordon, Corrections Officer, Elizabethtown, Cell Extraction Instructor Course, cost $200.00. They motioned to adopt Resolution 2011-09, a Resolution to declare an Emergency Situation Regarding Fire Escape Disrepair, to proceed immediately with proper corrective measures. According to Commissioner Warren, this problem was accidentally discovered when a person broke it. This person was not hurt. They motioned to authorize the Commissioners to sign the Purchase of Service Agreement between Susquehanna County Services for Children & Youth and Cornell Abraxas Group, South Mountain, inclusive for the following program only: Leadership Development Program, Certificate per diem $151.65. They motioned to exonerate the Tax Claim Bureau from collecting delinquent taxes regarding the following per the request of Catherine Benedict, Tax Claim Director: Apolacon Twp., name of Anthony Lombardo, consisting of a trailer in Brookside Trailer Park, assessed at $500.00. The trailer was exonerated from the rolls by Assessment at a total tax to be exonerated of $83.29. They motioned to authorize the Commissioners to sign the agreements between the Lackawanna-Susquehanna Counties Behavioral Health/Intellectual Disabilities and Early Intervention Programs and between 50 and 55 other entities, dollars allocated to Early Intervention in the amount of $1,697,200.00, Behavioral Health $7,604,600, Intellectual Disabilities $4,193,200, total $13,495,000 Federal, State, and Local monies, with the Local Match for $112,300. They motioned to accept the bid from Independent Tabulation, Mebane, NC, the lowest qualified bidder, for handicap accessible equipment for various polling locations for $3,204.00. The equipment has been approved by the Department of State, and they will reimburse the County under the HAVA Grant in the amount of $3,199.44. They motioned to authorize the Commissioners to sign a lease agreement with Neopost (Postage Pros Plus) for the lease of a dynamic scale digital mailing system, for sixty- three (63) months for a total cost of $19,141.95. They motioned to authorize the Commissioners to accept the bid for the domestic water pump for repairs at the Susquehanna County Prison. A bid came from the lowest qualified bidder, United Heating & Air Conditioning, Pittston Township, for $5,997.00. They motioned to authorize the Commissioners to sign Recycling Sustainability Fee Agreements with the following facilities: Clinton County Solid Waste Authority, and Taylor Garbage Service, Inc. The facilities have agreed to collect $4.00 per ton of municipal waste received from Susquehanna County. These funds will be remitted to the County quarterly and help assist the County recycling program. They motioned to hire Jennifer Henry, Hallstead, to the open, full-time position of Head Real Estate Clerk, Range 11, Rate $10.35 per hour, 7.5 hours per day, 37.5 hours per week with a six-month probation period and benefits per the Residual Bargaining Unit Contract, per the recommendation of Thomas Button, Chief Assessor. They motioned to terminate Jeanne Davis, 911 effective July 26, 2011, per the recommendation of Art Donato, 911 Coordinator. They asked for public comments and there were several. During the meeting, the Commissioners were asked: Do you discuss the "agendas" days before the meetings? Commissioner Giangrieco responded, "they do not." Another comment was concern about the motions to be read aloud. A comment was mentioned concerning general education funding. There needs to be an increase to meet the needs of the county and prisoners. The meeting adjourned at 9:21 a.m. Solicitor Michael Gathany called the Susquehanna County Board of Elections meeting to order at 9:24 a.m. Richard L. Ainey, Thomas R. Charles, Gary W. Marcho and Silvia Beamer were present. They motioned to nominate Ainey as Chairman of the Board of Elections, and to nominate Gary Marcho as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Elections. They approved the minutes of the February 9, 2011 meeting. It was mentioned that the town of Great Bend did not submit a letter concerning positions such as supervisor on a ballot. This has never been done before. The Township has responsibility to do this. The board members are still waiting for a reply. The motioned to approve two polling place changes commencing with the November 8, 2011 election. The first, Jackson Township will relocate from the North Jackson Methodist Church to the Jackson Township Building at 310 Old Mill Road, Jackson, PA. The second, the Borough of Montrose, 2nd Ward, previously at the Rectory at Holy Name of Mary Church, on South Main Street, will now be at 89 Cherry Street in the conference room. The Chief Clerk read the minutes of this meeting, and it was motioned to approve them. At 9:31 a.m., the meeting was closed and adjourned.
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