The room was almost overflowing at the August 15 Mountain View School Board meeting. Hot topics of discussion included transportation matters and a certain coaching position. The meeting ran roughly three hours, and even then it was not closed but recessed until the following week.

Corinna Kinney asked about the bus contracts. Rumors were circulating she said, regarding bus 10's route and an addition onto it which would bring it onto 547 and into Harford. She stated that she was concerned that this would add a half an hour to that bus route, based on her past driving experience. The bus, she feared, might begin its run prior to people getting notified during bad weather, and that the situation would be worse at the end of the day. Sometimes, she said, the buses did not leave the school until twenty after three, and with a longer route the last child might feasibly not get home until quarter to five. There were rumors circulating in March and April about routes not being continued, she said, and she felt that they should have been notified earlier. Also, she questioned if only two routes were being replaced, of four that were retired. Mr. Zick said that the business office had been working on this. Mr. Mirabelli addressed her concerns, acknowledging that the longer run was an option but clarifying that the main criteria would be the length of time added to the route. He told her that the district did not pursue quick fixes, and would do the right thing. He clarified that while the necessary contracts were to be filled that evening, the bus 10 route would not be acted upon. Reassignment of buses could happen after the vote. One bus route was to be absorbed, and one covered by the vo-tech driver.

A visitor asked when people would find out when and at what time children would be picked up. Mr. Mirabelli replied that that week and the next week the routes were to be finished, and that the information would be disseminated as soon as possible.

Jay Bradley of Hop Bottom then spoke up about the concern regarding the boy's basketball coach vote. A lot of people were present who wanted to speak. The first to speak up was a mother who said that her son had had several different coaches, and she wished that some of their experiences would go further than the board's personal views. Her son had played AAU basketball with Corey Gesford, for three years she continued, and he had managed to bring them together to play as a team and instructed them on what it meant to be a good player. If he were appointed as coach, she said, he would be there for the long haul, instead of there being a string of replacements. She spoke against another coach option, and called not appointing Mr. Gesford a mistake. An ex-student then stood up, who had played under Mr. Gesford for four years. He felt that Mr. Gesford had a good record, and spoke highly of his passion. He said that he hoped to be a coach some day, and wanted to be like Mr. Gesford if he did. Another ex-student also spoke up in his support, saying that Gesford had given him respect and that it would be a great disservice to children and the community if he were not hired. This was followed by a former student speaking of his experience with merry-go-round coaches, and speaking highly of how well Mr. Gesford related to the students. An adult stood and encouraged the board to offer forgiveness, per the Lord's prayer which was said at the meeting's commencement. He said that the good of the children was what was important, pointing to the number of young men present to support the would-be coach. A mother said that she respected Gesford despite mistakes he had made, and argued that everyone had made mistakes. She was followed by another, who said that she was sad that her son had missed out on having him. She called him a phenomenal educator, and spoke of his love of the children. She said that the board was supposed to be representing what the community wanted, and that there were likely representatives from every region present in Gesford's defense. Other students and/or former students spoke, pointing out the fact that there were young men in the room who hadn't played in five years but still came out, and speaking of Mr. Gesford as an educator being one of the people you always remembered. Mr. Gesford himself then spoke up, saying he was humbled by the kind words, admitting he was not infallible, and stating that he wanted to live up to the expectation of those in the room. He said that he had apologized to the board, and spoken with people in the community. He said that someone could apologize all they wanted, but it was actions after that which were important. He felt that his commitment to the community was strong, and that his qualifications were the best. This item was not voted on for some time after all of these testimonies.

The hot water heater bid was motioned and approved. Dr. Chichura proposed utilizing the capital reserve fund to pay for the heater, suggesting an amendment to this effect be made. It was countered by a board member, and accepted in the end, that the money be taken from the general fund, as the funds were present.

When it came time to appoint the basketball coach, the motion was made to appoint David Bell. Mr. Griffiths and Mr. Wescott voted against this, but the other seven board members voted in its favor. At this point there was a mass exodus from the meeting. Two of the adults supporting Mr. Gesford spoke out angrily against the board as they left the meeting, talking over the board member attempting to move on to the next agenda item. One of the mothers lobbied accusations at the board members, calling them inappropriate. Mr. Zick attempted to call order to the meeting, and it was argued by one board member that the people being inappropriate were the visitors. Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan rebutted that nobody was there to speak for Mr. Bell, and stated that she had received several phone calls in favor of him for the position.

Other athletic items were addressed when the situation defused. A district sponsored wrestling club was authorized. The motion passed unanimously. James Wescott was approved as a golf volunteer.

When Mrs. Yarrish asked what was revised about the revised visitation policy, Dr. Chichura explained that a section on student observation had been revised. At times outside observations could be disruptive, he said, and this policy would establish a set procedure and give the administration the power to regulate observation practices.

The revised policy dealing with booster organizations was reviewed next. Dr. Chichura asked the board if it wanted to get involved at all with giving guidance to booster organizations. Currently it was a complete hands off situation, and he wished to have direction regarding whether he ought to follow up on it more. A visitor spoke up about this subject, in favor of oversight. Mr. Wescott disagreed. Mr. Griffiths said that legally the school had no oversight over booster organizations. It was suggested that one important thing would be to ensure that the coach was not involved in a booster club. Mr. Bradley spoke up again, saying that if the board wanted to get involved, he felt that they should have bylaws. Mr. Wescott had concerns that this would be opening a can of worms. Mr. Griffiths said that the only thing the board could do was regulate how large a project was being pursued. When someone asked why the board would want to do this, Mr. Griffiths spoke about the need for the district to equalize a situation, if a booster club did something to benefit the school. For instance if the baseball boosters obtained special equipment for that team, the district might be required to also provide it for the softball team out of district funds. Dr. Chichura said that, if he was reading the board correctly, they were in favor of adding regulations, requiring bylaws, and stipulating that the coach not serve on a booster club, but of otherwise not having much control. This seemed to be the agreed upon preference.

Dr. Chichura gave a presentation regarding looking at the one-call system, which would allow him to make one call in the mornings, after which students and staff would receive calls within ten minutes. This would replace a paper snow chain. The cost was reasonable, he felt. The projection would be to not do some bulk mailings, and to provide the information with a telephone call instead. This would allow the district, for instance, in case of an outbreak, to contact parents and refer them to the website for information. It would only take the elimination of three mailings, he said, to pay for the system, which would have no limit to the number of calls which could be made. It would also, it was said, make it easier to notify parents if a student was late, and would allow for messages to only be sent to specific groups of students. Other schools had been spoken with, which were happy with the system. Cafeteria balances could also be included, as could student attendance (if say a child did not come to school).

Dr. Chichura also commended the custodians and maintenance people on their work in the building. Despite having two fewer workers, he spoke highly of how nicely the school was prepared.

The elementary principal kindergarten registration was scheduled for August 30 at 2 p.m. The class lists would be posted on the doors of the elementary school on August 22, and once the system was rolled over parents would be able to get homeroom lists off of skyward. Kindergarten enrollment was sitting at 77, and at least one more was expected to come in.

Mrs. Voigt spoke about summer school for credit recovery, which ended on the fifth of August. About half of the classes students passed and received credit for. Edison learning online was piloted, which system was quite structured and contained a pacing chart. Some students had done very well with this.

The accountability block grant application had been submitted. The district received $94,211, over $84,000 of which was being used for educator salaries, and about $8800 was being used, upon a waiver, for the accelerated reader and accelerated math programs at the secondary level. Results of the Keystone exams, which the high schoolers had taken the previous year, were expected to come in on September seventh. The district also planned on participating in the Mobile Ag Lab this year, which it hoped to integrate into the science modules.

During the building and grounds report, Mr. Taylor said that he felt the school might be ready for the students by the following week or the week after. A lot of painting had been completed at the secondary building. The goal was to universalize the color blues.

It was also reported that the one way mirror had been completed, along with the high jump and pole vault pit, and one new office. The reading recovery trainer spoke up, saying that of all the schools she had traveled too, Mountain View had the nicest reading recovery behind the glass set up she had seen. She felt that the crew ought to be commended.

A motion was made and seconded to allow Bluestone Pipeline Company to use school land for the purposes of pipeline surveying. This motion passed unanimously.

Two bus contracts were granted. Four had been retired, but one was being absorbed and the other given to the vo-tech driver as the SCCTC was going to provide transportation to Mountain View students for free. One of the contracts was given to a bus company, and a visitor warned the board about troubles which could come from this. Dr. Chichura said that the decisions were made based on the most efficient proposals, and that the routes were all completed prior to the proposals being looked at. When someone asked about prior district policy regarding hiring district residents, Mr. Mirabelli mentioned the problems another district had run into regarding giving favors. In order to avoid this, he had documented searching for the most efficient proposal. He also said that all of the companies had stated a desire to hire a local driver. The motion passed.

The board had reduced professional staff. A grievance had been filed by the educator's association relating the furloughs. An agreement was voted on that night, stating that all grievances related to the furloughs would be withdrawn, based on two provisions. These stated that any professional employee furloughed at the end of the 2010-2011 school year would be allowed recall rights, and that all temporary professional employees that had completed their three years of satisfactory service would be afforded tenure status so long as they were satisfactory in every way. Letters would be given saying that they had met all of the requirements for tenure, although they would not actually receive tenure. The recall rights would apply to both professional and temporary professional employees. When someone asked if anything was being done for those laid off in 09-10 school year, it was responded that this was an agreement only in response to the grievances this year with no retroactivity and no precedent for the future. There were five votes to the affirmative regarding this agreement, and three against.

It was decided that the meeting was to be continued the following week at seven. This was in response to continued concerns regarding transportation matters.

Mr. Twining said that he had the opportunity to go in and look at the extended school year program. He thanked the district for looking into a visitor's policy, and complimented the extended school year program.

Mr. Gesford asked if the athletics recommendations for the extracurricular positions of athletic nature were the recommendations of the athletic director. It was responded that not all of them were. It was said that for the one in question the athletic director had not made a recommendation.

Mr. Gesford then asked Mrs. Stine how long she had been on the personnel committee, wondering if she was on in the 2004 year. It was answered that she did not think she had been. He also asked if there was to be a state of the union speech, so to speak. Dr. Chichura responded that this was generally done on the first in-service day. When it was asked how the public found out, he responded that they learned from the reports on the board meetings and from contacting their board members.

It was confirmed that shuttle buses had been eliminated. Also, it was stated that fuel escalations might be considered, and that transportation to SCCTC buses had been put back into place. This last was due to IEP provisions, since in the past the precedent of doing so had been established.

It seems like every year about this time, Blue Ridge Food Service Director Linda Cole-Koloski comes to the school board reporting even better results than the year before. At the meeting on August 18, she handed Board President Alan Hall a check for $50,000, the other half of the cost of renovating the cafeteria serving area that was completed a year ago. That project was the culmination of an effort to completely refurbish the food-service facility that started with new kitchen equipment, and continued with all-new tables and chairs in the dining room. She said that food service at Blue Ridge is “financially sound,” ending the 2010-2011 school year with just $36 in uncollected debt.

All of this from lunch money. And all without an increase in meal prices, which will continue for yet another year. Not to mention the free breakfasts that have been provided to all elementary students for 4 years now. Ms. Cole-Koloski said that her operation again served 50,000 free breakfasts during the school year just past. It also served 350 free breakfasts to Middle and High School students to give them a boost on testing days.

Under a program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Blue Ridge kitchen provided 2,000 free meals to participants in 4 programs at the campus this summer, the 7th year for the “Hunger Doesn’t Take a Break” program at the school - at no cost to the district.

Ms. Cole-Koloski said that she is able to achieve these results by working closely with USDA to take full advantage of its commodity programs. A fair portion of food service costs are covered by government subsidy, particularly for the large number of Blue Ridge students who qualify for low-income support.

She did warn the board of changes on the horizon. The new “Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010” signed by president Obama last December requires “that schools provide the same level of support for lunches served to students paying for lunch as for lunches served to students eligible for free lunch. This provision is effective July 1, 2011, for school year 2011-2012 and applies to student lunch prices…. School food authorities must compare the price for paid lunches to the difference between the per meal federal reimbursement for free and paid lunches. For school year 2011-2012, this value is $2.46.” The implication in this bureaucratese for Blue Ridge is that meal prices will increase substantially, although Ms. Cole-Koloski has found a way to impose the increases incrementally, a “step at a time.” As Mr. Hall said, Blue Ridge will be penalized by the federal government for keeping costs down.

Ms. Cole-Koloski said her menus take longer to prepare from raw food, but the outcome is higher nutritional value. She also warmly thanked the Maintenance and IT Departments for their support keeping the food service functioning smoothly. She encouraged board members to view the framed mosaics produced by 5th-grade art students that decorate the brightly-lit serving area, complementing the murals placed in the dining room 2 years ago.

Her report was welcomed with hearty applause from all present - twice.

There was other business at the meeting. Among other routine personnel matters, the board welcomed Vincent LoRusso as the new secondary-school band teacher. Mr. LoRusso will receive additional compensation as band director under Schedule B of the new teachers’ contract. He accepted the board’s welcome in person.

The board hired Christopher Clark as secondary-school math teacher for the new year.

Sam Folk and Carolyn Clark were taken on as cross-country coaches.

Adele Kryger was appointed Middle-School/High-School Life Skills teacher for the new school year. Janice Johnson has been transferred from that position to become a 3rd-grade teacher in the Elementary School.

Mandy Miller will become a part-time SAT preparation teacher and “assessment coordinator.”

The board approved a service agreement with Eleanor Conroy to review Individual Education Plans during the next school year at a rate of $50 per hour. These “ACCESS Medical Practitioner Authorization” reviews are required by state regulation in order for the district to receive partial reimbursement of the cost of the special education program.

Margaret Glezen was named Title I coordinator for the new school year. Title I covers educational programs for “disadvantaged” students.

The board approved agreements with Trehab for 2 substance-abuse programs. Under the Student Assistance agreement, Trehab will provide outpatient drug and alcohol treatment as needed in cooperation with and as a contractor for the county office of drug and alcohol programs. Trehab will also offer drug and alcohol prevention presentations in the Elementary School under the “Too Good for Drugs” rubric.

The board approved a list of suppliers of custodial supplies (Sanico of Binghamton, PA Paper and Supply of Scranton and Central Poly of Linden, NJ) for a total of $9,978; and athletic supplies (Bataglia’s, Collins, BSN, Medco) for a total of $16,513.

Tacked on almost at the end, the board authorized the solicitation of bids to replace all of the cafeteria doors, as well as the Middle School entrance. As if he didn’t have enough to do in the last week before school (and Fair week at that) to complete a large helping of projects around the campus, Business Manager Loren Small said that all of the doors had “deteriorated along the base,” were leaking, and sometimes didn’t close … or even open.

Ms. Cole-Koloski and the new teachers weren’t the only ones to receive applause at the meeting. Superintendent Robert McTiernan presented plaques honoring their unpaid service on the School Board to Harold Empett for 12 years, and to Joel Whitehead for 28 years. The awards are sponsored by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (the lobbying group for local public school districts) and recognize service at 4-year intervals beginning at 8 years “for the future of our public schools.”

It doesn’t hurt that Ms. Cole-Koloski often provides some goodies at these board meetings. This time it was apple crumb pie, with dollops of whipped cream. Some are hoping for soup as the weather gets cooler. Come for a treat, usually the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month, beginning at 7:30 p.m. All meetings are held (appropriately) in the cafeteria in the Elementary School. Check the district’s home page on the web for the latest details (the menu is always a surprise).

DEEDS

Juanita G. and Jeanette Smith to Harold R. and Carol A. Smith, in Bridgewater Township for one dollar.

Nancy K. (AKA) Nancy (estate), Albert, Mary Ellen, Warren D. and Joan Price; Linda Ann and Daniel Kilpatrick to Albert L. and Warren D. Price and Linda Ann Kilpatrick, in Harmony Township for one dollar.

School District of Forest Lake Township to Clayton and Betsy Small, in Forest Lake Township for $530.00.

Nicholas, Jr. (by POA) and Mary Ann Sabuacak to Joseph Shevchuk, Jr., in Lathrop Township for $31,000.00.

Joan S. Wackernagel (estate) to Kim J. Wackernagel and Ann M. W. Fergione, in Dimock Township for one dollar.

Dorothy M. Demer to Demer Family Irrevocable Trust, in Great Bend Township for one dollar.

Charles and Nancy L. (AKA) Nancy Kritch to Dandy 32 Rushboro LLC, in Auburn Township for $40,000.00.

William J. and Denise Humber to Philip L. Hogan, Jr., in Bridgewater Township for $100,000.00.

Tonya L. Horn to Rene Mercon and Carrie Passerini-Mercon (AKA) Carrie Passerini, in Rush Township for $225,000.00.

Ronald G., Jr. and Christine M. Brown to Ronald G. Brown, Jr., in Forest Lake Township for one dollar.

Leon, Marsha, Lee and Denise M. Burts to Lee and Denise M. Burts, in Forest Lake Township for one dollar.

Fannie Mae (AKA) Federal National Mortgage Association to John T. Karakash, in Harford Township for $47,775.00.

Paul, Jr., Dawn M. and Stephen Borick; Dawn and Daryl Jaget to Dawn and Daryl Jaget, in Herrick Township for one dollar.

Pearl M. Warner to Rosalie A. and James T. Atkinson, in Liberty Township for one dollar.

Anthony P. and Elizabeth S. Mallozzi to Patrick K. and Arleta L. Kipar, in Auburn Township for $162,000.00.

Michele L. Heeman to Richard P. and Mary F. Niederberger and Michele L. Heeman, in Franklin Township for $35,000.00.

Isabelle S. Levene (by atty) to Louis S. and Stephen M. Levene, in Silver Lake Township for $10.00.

Christine E. Benjamin to James R. Zahora, in Liberty Township for $245,000.00.

Mary McAllister to Mary McAllister and Deborah Ann Cieszkowski, in Clifford Township for one dollar.

Tony R. (by sheriff) and Amanda M. (by sheriff) Weaver to Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, in Hallstead Borough for $3,209.76.

David A. and Susan L. Petersen to James and Connie M. Ziemski, in Silver Lake Township for $210,000.00.

David W. Pritchard to David W. Pritchard (trust), in Harford Township for one dollar.

David W. Pritchard to David W. Pritchard (trust), in Gibson Township for one dollar.

Maurice and Anna T. Fisco Aubree to Mark Foster Lake Associates LP (AKA) Mark Forest Lake Associates LP, in Forest Lake Township for $152,500.00.

Bernita J. Thatcher to Harry Thatcher, Dawn Meagher and Marjorie Sebring, in Gibson Township for one dollar.

David and Kathy Hiznay; Jasper and Karen Hiznay Rizzo to Paul, Jr. and Dawn Borick, in Forest City for $65,000.00.

Paul, Jr., Dawn M. and Stephen Borick; Dawn and Daryl Jaget to Paul, Jr. and Dawn M. Borick, in Herrick Township for one dollar.

Paul, Jr. and Dawn M. Borick to Domenick and Kimberly Braccia, in Herrick Township for $224,000.00.

Arlin H. and Diana A. White to Diana A. White, in Gibson Township for one dollar.

Karen C. Richards and Coburn F. Christensen to Bremer Hof Owners, Inc., in Herrick Township for $100.00.

Bremer Hof Owners to Cecil, Brian, Kevin and Craig Pitcher, Nancy Sayre and Debbie Harbak, in Herrick Township for $100.00.

Robert Caragol to Bremer Hof Owners, Inc., in Herrick Township for $100.00.

George and Brenda Loubet to William H. and Joanne Parkins, in Springville Township for $179,900.00.

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County Domestic Relations Section has outstanding bench warrants for the following individuals as of August 19, 2011 at 10:15 a.m.

Duane M. Aldrich, Craig J. Anderson, Edward R. Ashman, BillieJean Beemer, Tonya S. Birchard, Brent V. Birtch, Christopher Brenner, Douglas Buckman, Howard A. Burns, III, Bradley C. Button, Douglas Carey, Jason J. Carroll, Randall L. Cox, Heather R. DeBoer, John F. Feeley, David J. Fischer, John S. Frisbie, Jr., David Haines, Jr., Shannon J. Hollister, Christopher J. Kingsbury, Eric C. Kohlhepp, Erik E. Krisovitch, Lee Labor, Joshua S. Lee, Charlie J. Legere, Carlos L. Leiser, Michael Maryasz, Donald Palmer, Jeremy Presson, Shane M. Repsher, Perry Rohan, Roy E. Rosenbaum, David J. Shiner, Eric J. Snell, Gary Tripp, Kurtis L. Vogler, Steven G. Warner, James M. Warner, Jamie L. Williams, Sr., Steven G. Wormuth, Patrick L. Yachymiak.

Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.

Jon Alan Dockens has now been identified as the suspect in a robbery that took place on August 19 at Penn Star Bank located on Main Street in Susquehanna Depot. At the time of the report, his whereabouts were not known and an arrest warrant had been issued for Dockens for Robbery and Theft. Formerly of Susquehanna, it is said that Dockens has ties to the Allentown area.

The suspect got away with an undisclosed amount of money and was believed to leave the scene in a maroon Subaru station wagon. The registration on the vehicle was unknown, but the car was believed to be a 2001 or 2002 Subaru. At this time the investigation is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police at Gibson at 570-465-3154.

The August 28 SCCTC board meeting began with an Energy Education presentation. Mr. Ross Kelly, representing the eastern division of Energy Education, was present to present an award. He said that he wanted to put some context around the presentation Kim Guiton was about to make. Three years ago the district embarked on the energy saving campaign, and at that time there was a proposition that perhaps the district could reduce energy consumption by 20% off of audits, walk throughs, education, and the rallying of district members. The district had yet to complete the third year of the program, and it had already surpassed all of the projected milestones. This was the second award presented to the district, one having been given after the school passed it's first set of milestones. A plaque was presented to Dr. Bush and Mr. Place, with Mr. Kelly saying that it represented leadership status not only in Pennsylvania but across the country. There were fewer than 800 districts, he continued, which were approaching what Elk Lake was achieving. Ms. Guiton then took over, thanking the administration, the board, and staff member who had worked with her on saving energy. This included the pool director, who had volunteered to help test a liquid pool cover which could save a considerable amount of money (if it worked). She also acknowledged the work of the maintenance and custodial staff, who ensured that lights were out and heat was modulated.

The update she gave ran from the beginning of the program to a recent date. The total savings equaled 24%, over $33,000 in practical terms. The district had realized, in savings, a 97% return on investment. The projected return for coming year was 110%, due to a projected reduction in expenses. As of March the district had become an Energy Star partner. To become an Energy Star partner the district had to track energy use, implement energy efficient upgrades, plan for improvements, and apply for label, leader, and top performer recognition. Energy Education had assisted her with these steps. Thus far she had applied for label status. She thought that the elementary building would qualify for leader recognition, as would the new building.

The year prior the district had chosen a new electric supplier, and Ms. Giuton reviewed the repercussions of this decision. Penelec's price had increased from 6.33 cents per kwh to 7.81 cents per kwh, and was to increase further in September, whereas Allegheny, would keep the price steady at 6.79 cents per kwh through September 2013, per their agreement with the district. She estimated that in the past year the district had saved around $18,000 by this action. Mr. place thanked her for her efforts, and opined that this energy savings was coming at a great time, with the cuts to education. Dr. Bush also thanked her for her efforts, stating that she did an outstanding job.

She recommended to the board that when the program came to an end the district renew its relationship with Energy Education. Mr. Kelly stood up and announced that after the four year contractual phase, which would end in a little over a year, Energy Education would like to provide ongoing support for no additional fees. By sustaining the program then, and keeping Ms. Guiton in place, he said, the district’s savings would increase even further.

Someone asked about an area school which had decided not to send students to the vo-tech during the coming year. Dr. Bush said that they were looking forward to Blue Ridge returning whenever they made the decision. It was unknown for how long that decision would stand.

During the director's report, Dr. Davis announced that the Community Foundation had given $1,300 for the FBLA. Also, on the website all of the current programs and the new programs for next year were listed. The school, she said, would be ready when the new year began on the thirtieth. Mr. Place acknowledged the Community Foundation for their assistance.

A number of items were reviewed under the budget section, including transportation salaries. The district was having a difficult time finding CDL drivers for bus routes. It was proposed that rates be increased by $1.50 for CDL drivers and .50 for non-CDL. Also, that payment for substitutes be increased from $7.70 to $8.0 for non CDL drivers, and from $11 to $13 for CDL drivers. It was hoped that this would better allow the district to attract more drivers. The district had tried to shape this to what contractors were paying their drivers. Various benefits to working for the school were mentioned, including the potential for the district to assist with licensure and renewal.

Mr. Tewksbury asked for an update on the new building. Dr. Bush said that the district hoped to be in the new facility for the beginning of the 2012-2013 school year, with completion in July of the following summer. With the renovations in the current facility the district planned on being able to begin school on time. The district hoped to switch over to gas power for the facility, at some time down the road.

A visitor stated that she had walked around the site that evening, and asked where the electric trench was headed. Dr. Bush explained that this line entered into the electric unit at the elementary. Upon further questioning, it was clarified that the new building would have a separate meter, just as the current career center had a separate meter.

Dr. Bush had a discussion with the superintendent of Mountain View, Dr. Chichura, and in discussing some of their needs Elk Lake had made an offer to transport their students. Mr. Place explained that in ordinary transportation the district gets reimbursed from the Department of Education the following year. A few years ago the percentage was 90% of reimbursement, though he wasn't certain what it was at that time. Elk Lake was trying to help the other district out with its offer.

During the Elk Lake meeting, Mary Coleman's retirement was accepted with regret. Dr. Bush spoke highly of her, as did a visitor. Mrs. Hollister read a letter the second grade educator had written regarding how much she had enjoyed her time at the district.

During the principal's reports, Mr. Pirone called the look of the elementary building great. The paving was to be done for the new parking situation. Mrs. Staats said that her department was also looking forward to the students coming in. Mr. Mallery provided board members with the fall sports schedule, though there was still some work to be finalized. Training had begun.

A copy of an article regarding two of the district's softball players was provided to the board as well. Brooke Darling, one of the two, had held a 456 batting average as a pitcher, and had thrown over 1,000 strikeouts over her career. One the other end, Gabby Baltzley had ended her season with a 397 batting average and been a stellar catcher.

As the administrative reports continued, various other items were mentioned. The seventh grade orientation was scheduled for the following Thursday. The maintenance staff was thanked for preparation of the school and the fields by both secondary principals. All of the classrooms now had smart boards, Dr. Cuomo reported. There were 613 students registered for grades 7-12, as of that day.

The student assistance program agreement with Trehab was reviewed, being the same as it had been the year before.

It was announced that the state had not provided money for dual enrollment that year. The program would still be run, and students would be encouraged to take part in it. Two of the schools had reduced their tuition; one had not but it had already been offering low rates. Of those reducing, one reduced tuition significantly and the other eliminated fees. Anyway you looked at it, Dr. Cuomo said, students would not be able to take these courses on campus for anywhere near the price of the program, especially with the price of books.

The retention policy revision was reviewed. Several years ago, in trying to raise the standards for students, a requirement was instituted which stated that any student owning two or more credits would be retained. There was concern that perhaps the district had tightened things a little too far, as it was not possible for a student to have enough credits to graduate but still be required to come back. The number of credit recovery option made this feasible.

The crisis counselor contract was to be changed in two areas. The first was the company name, which would be changed to the name of the counselor. The hourly rate was to increase from $40/hr. to $45/hr. The counselor would also be providing counseling services for elementary students.

Payments for the capital project were reviewed. Bills for work on the parking lot expansion and driveway were reviewed as well.

A new unit for the pool was discussed. The unit heated the pool and environment. Due to its age, the old unit had taken in some water. Originally Dr. Bush had wanted to keep the current unit through that school year, but he felt it needed to be ordered sooner (and it had been). The hope was to have the new system up and running for the start of the swim system.

Mrs. Hollister spoke of the original debate regarding whether or not the pool would be used and was worth the taxpayer's money. She spoke of how often the facility had been used by the whole community this past summer. One of the benefits, Dr. Bush explained, involved a local camp which used the pool. A life guarding program had been put together for those children who had difficulty swimming, giving the lifeguards experience.

Several athletic positions were renewed, and two filled. Mr. Place commended Mr. Brosious for his work and awards.

Finally, a quick update was given regarding the joint football endeavor. Montrose had approved the proposed agreement, it would then have to go to district twelve and then the PIAA. The hope would be for students to participate in football, then, in the 2012-2013 school year. A visitor thanked the administration and the board for taking the time to look into providing this opportunity for the kids.

Southwest was going full guns in the township, Mr. Hunter said near the beginning of the New Milford Township meeting on August 17, pointing to a map on the building's wall. Red dots marked areas where the company was either planning to place pads, or where they already existed.

The township had looked into information regarding an earned income tax. The attorney was continuing to research it and had spoken to people from other townships. Gibson for instance, it was stated, took in between $60,000 and $80,000 a year from theirs. Bridgewater took in anywhere from $250,000 up. When a visitor asked about the size of these townships, it was responded that Bridgewater was the largest township in Susquehanna County, but Gibson probably had probably fewer people than New Milford. It was clarified that this tax would be collected on people who either lived in the township or worked there, if their town of residence did not collect one. Mr. Hunter explained that the reason they were looking into the topic was because the township was always falling short on money. The price of fuel had risen. The last few years Lopke had come in and crushed material, but had informed the supervisors that they would not do so this year. Mr. Hunter delineated some of the other expenses the township faced as well. He said that their back was against the wall all the time, and they were trying to make things better. If the township were to generate enough revenue, there was the possibility that they could cut real estate taxes.

A contract was mentioned which had been under discussion for around three years, regarding the road out by McDonald’s. Only the gravel portion of the road, about 400 feet in length, belonged to the township, the rest belonged to the state. Businesses had been put on the road, and there was the desire to have it blacktopped. The county had put in a grant to that effect. Mr. Briechle had done research on the contract, and had worked until they were willing to sign it. First, however, a resolution needed to be made to appoint Mr. Hunter as the signing entity. This was made and passed. The contract just stipulated the township would maintain the road after the project was completed.

Julene Graham, the township supervisor, wanted to remind the public that if there was any confusion regarding whether a project required a permit they should call and ask.

The cinder shed project was waiting for drawings, which it was hoped would arrive soon. Then the process could continue and it was hoped it might be done by September.

The historical committee was not involved this time, but there was to be another cruise-in car show at the Green Gables. It was sponsored by the men's club and the Endless Mountains Cruisers. It was to be an all day event, scheduled for September 11. The Endless Mountain cruisers, it was said, donate a lot of money to the Ronald McDonald House.

There was a concert in the park held in July. It was a good two hour event. It was hoped that it could be continued every year. There had been a nice turnout. It was estimated that perhaps there were fifty people.

Barney and Dick had contacted the borough to state that they could not provide the township with the cinder blocks they originally bid on. The supervisors then had to reject the bid and accept Masters' bid.

Following is the Susquehanna County sentencing report for August 2011 as submitted by the county District Attorney’s office.

Leland James Goble, 22, of Endicott, NY to 9 months to 23 1/2 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, followed by 3 years probation, pay $350 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act Fee for Corruption of Minors in Franklin Township on July 31, 2010.

Eugene Edward Parrish, 33, of Montrose, PA to 9 months to 23 1/2 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, followed by 3 years probation, pay $300 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act Fee, receive a sexual offenders evaluation and treatment, take prescribed medication, not to have contact with the victim or children under the age of 18, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample for Indecent Assault in Dimock Township on April 12, 2010.

Roy William Camp, 69, of Montrose, PA to 78 months to 20 years in a state correctional facility, not to have contact with the victim, pay $500 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to possess weapons, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, receive a sexual offenders evaluation and treatment, not to have contact with children under the age of 18 without adult supervision for Rape in Jessup Township on August 1, 2002.

Following is the list of names drawn to serve as Petit and Traverse jurors to appear in the Court of Common Pleas, Susquehanna County Courthouse, Montrose, on the 6th day of September at 9:00 a.m.

Ararat Twp.: Ivan Burman, Patricia Milos, Matthew J. Stone.

Auburn Twp.: Stephen Anderson, Robert Clayton, Timothy Newhart, Daniel Siracuse, Jr.

Bridgewater Twp.: Nancy Blaisure, Rose Clough, Richard Pelicci, Lorraine Reynolds, John Siedlecki.

Brooklyn Twp.: James Alden, Alvin Miller.

Choconut Twp.: Frederick Capotosto, Kathleen Mordovancey, Gary Shockey.

Clifford Twp.: Janice Edmumds, Michelle Lukens, Patricia Moro, Tammy A. Swetter, Trent Turner.

Dimock Twp.: Mary Berg, Christina Decker, Joyce Jennings, Terry Way, Laurie Woolcock.

Forest City, 2W: Henry Carter, Joseph Pavlovich.

Forest Lake Twp.: Robert Collumb, Jane Conboy, Frederick Swingle.

Franklin Twp.: Esther Darrow.

Gibson Twp.: Michael Fifth, Thomas M. Fontana, Robert Walker.

Great Bend Boro: Carol Kowalewski, Michael Lonzinski.

Great Bend Twp.: Ian Gelinger, Lillian Hornish, Marjorie Marvin, Sharon Scheideler, Ronald Schoner.

Hallstead Boro: Lee Bonner, Lisa Fisher.

Harford Twp.: Rebecca Henderson, Robert Schultz.

Harmony Twp.: Paul Downton.

Herrick Twp.: Susan Stoklosa.

Jackson Twp.: Richard Henry, Lillian Jainnini.

Lanesboro Boro: Carol Baka.

Lathrop Twp.: Dawnielle Newhart, Karin Wellings.

Lenox Twp.: Kevin Bialy, Ray Henke, Rita Keifer, Adam Manzer, Ordie Price, William Strickland.

Liberty Twp.: Scott Carter.

Little Meadows Boro: Frederick Pitcher.

Middletown Twp.: Deborah Purtell.

New Milford Boro: Christopher Bronson, Michael Hanvey, Ali Khudhair.

New Milford Twp.: Tonya Gennarelli.

Oakland Twp.: Mary Butler.

Rush Twp.: Tracy Bennett, Susan Kamarauskas.

Silver Lake Twp.: Charlotte Birchard, Marlon Gibson, Judith Hackett, Kenneth Knapp, Douglas Lattner, Judith Ripic.

Springville Twp.: Richard Breese, Raymond Coolbaugh.

Susquehanna Boro, 1W: Robert Wayman.

Unknown: Barbara Moriarity.