Dr. Adams opened the December 17th meeting of the Mountain View School Board with a moment of silence for the tragic events of the weekend.

The meeting began in the elementary gymnasium, as a number of presentations were scheduled for the beginning. There were relatively few students present to be honored. Dr. Adams stated that they were competing with a basketball game. Still, each group was called forward for recognition, a certificate or other token, and a photo opportunity. Each group had their picture taken with the superintendent and board president.

Penny Bills was acknowledged for 5 years of service. The boys’ soccer team was honored. Dr. Adams congratulated them on what he called a marvelous season. The varsity girls’ team was then called forward. Dr. Adams again congratulated the team, noting it was the first girls’ team in the region to win a state playoff. The Junior High Soccer team was congratulated as well for a great season.

The next group honored was county chorus, with district chorus and county band following. Drama club was called forward, though only the advisers were present.

Finally, the students for the month from the SCCTC had their names read aloud. None of them were in attendance.

Dr. Adams summed up the proceedings by congratulating those present, stating that a lot of good people did a lot of good things. The meeting then adjourned to the board room.

Veronica Robbins, the Student Government Liaison, gave her presentation. The band and chorus had held their winter concert on December 12th. Six students had attended the Marywood Junior Wind-Band festival. The art club had plans to make stained glass windows in the courtyard, to address the problem of birds running into the windows. The Oweus anti-bullying program had begun; she called the kick off program amazing. The drama club was in the middle of auditions for the spring musical, Fiddler on the Roof. Five members of Student Government (SGA) had attended the state conference. The school had experienced great success in Feed a Friend, having won the canned sculpture contest sponsored by Trehab. Through a dance, $500 had been raised for Hurricane Sandy relief- the money was donated to the American Red Cross. A Christmas themed blood drive was scheduled for December 21st. Two SGA students were to be presenting a workshop at the district conference at Elk Lake in the spring. The national honor society had caroled that day at the Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center. The past weekend the first annual J. William Mclaughin basketball tournament had been held, in which the boys, girls, and jr. high teams, as well as the cheerleaders, participated. The SGA assisted Mr. Presley with a recognition assembly where everyone involved in school activities was recognized.

The new business manager was present, Joseph E. Patchcoski, who it was motioned be authorized to sign checks for a variety of accounts. Dr. Adams welcomed Mr. Patchcoski.

Mr. Taylor asked if anyone had noticed anything new about the front of the High School. The words Mountain View High School were illuminated.

He spoke then about wood chips. As of the previous day the district had used 302 tons of chips, which were equivalent to over $77,000 in fuel oil. The net savings at that point was $31,076 dollars.

Upgrading the fire system had been discussed. Mr. Taylor had obtained three quotes from three different firms, quotes to write the bid specifications and then process the actual bid. The lowest quote came in at $26,500; the other two were both over $30,000 total. It was confirmed that this was only for bid specifications, project management, three on-site follow-up meetings, and another item of follow up. These quotes did not include the fire system work. Mr. Williams asked if there was an idea as to what the final price would be. Mr. Taylor had requested that they include a semi-accurate quote of what the actual cost would be in the proposal. It was also expected that there would be a variety of options available.

Dr. Adams broached the subject of snow removal, discussed at a previous meeting. Mr. Taylor had spoken with the subcontractor who did the plowing, who agreed to do the dirt lots and the circle. Maintenance would still handle the salt. There had been talk of getting a gator to replace the skidsteer, and selling the skidsteer. Mr. Taylor thought that there could be more use going the gator route. Mr. Williams said that when using the term gator, they were talking of a generic, not a brand name, item. Mr. Williams felt that it would be a good move.

Mrs. Stine thought that before putting that kind of money into a gator, they should do some updating on the security system. Mr. Williams said that this was apples to oranges, price wise.

A board member said that a skidsteer could be used for anything, and a gator could only be used for some things. She wanted to know what could be gotten for the skidsteer. Mr. Taylor had called dealers, and it had been estimated that they should be able to get 12 or 13,000 for it. Mrs. Stine said that security for the students was much more important than a gator. She and Mrs. Aherne said that before they put money into a gator, they would rather see the money put into security.

Dr. Adams asked Mr. Taylor to get them figures on what a generic gator would cost. Right now it was only an information gathering process. There was then discussion about security, and security upgrades which might be desired.

Dr. Adams announced that the board was then going to try out doing a consent agenda. This meant that the district removed certain items for separate action. Otherwise a block of items would be approved together as a consent agenda.

During the administrators’ reports, a meeting was hosted at the district with the superintendents and District Attorney Jason Legg. The meeting was to address gaps between employees committing certain crimes, and the districts being notified in a timely fashion. Also, the district had to file paperwork with the state, and if they were relying on the staff to report there was a gap as well. DA Legg was willing to work with the superintendents and the police to address this, if a staff member was charged the district could be informed on a weekly basis. There were other gaps which DA Legg had said that he would take back to the DA association, to look at addressing legislation.

A second meeting had been held with municipal officials to work together on notification about hazardous road conditions. The group had met to discuss possible solutions; she said that it was a wonderful group to work with.

The district holiday party had been held December 7th, and Ms. Shea said that it was wonderful. A lot of fun was had.

Mr. Presley noted that they had completed the first wave of the Keystone exams. The topics covered had included Literature and Biology, and the students could opt to take it online or paper based. Progress reports had been sent home the week before. The Olweus program was in full swing. A special schedule was held on Thursdays, with each class being shortened slightly to provide a 40 minute club period. The clubs were going well. The club periods ran every other Thursday and class meetings on the other Thursdays. Mr. Presley was to hold a small assembly at the secondary school to discuss what students could do to make the school safer. The Olweus club meetings were also moved to that day, so that this could piggy back on the assembly. The building was initiating a student of the month program. This was not just an academic designation, but was to take in work ethic and character. Students were to have their pictures posted in the school and the newspaper, and Mr. Presley and Mrs. Porter were to take them out to lunch.

Craige’s had donated pictures of the soccer teams. The boys’ soccer team was the first soccer team ever in the Lackawanna League to win a state championship. Craige’s decided to make banners. The banners were to be put up in the gymnasium. The girl’s soccer team was the first girl’s team ever in the Lackawanna League to win a state soccer playoff game. (Scranton Prep had followed up a few minutes later, but Mountain View was still first.)

Dr. Adams again brought up the subject of assistant coaches. The concern was reviewed that, with policy dictating that a volunteer could not be responsible for kids, in situations where a student was injured the situation became complicated. Some of the coaches had spoken with Mr. Presley, saying that they felt this pressure. Mr. Presley had previously given the board three options: paying assistant coaches the former established salaries, offering them half of what the head coach made, or offering half of what the assistant salary would be, including as if they had never gotten rid of them, paying them half of the varsity salary, and offering half of what the assistant salary would be. Mr. Presley felt that option two was probably the best option. He said that having been a coach and being an official he was really concerned about injury and liability.

Several people said that they liked option two. Dr. Adams asked how they would handle this, volunteer assistants were in place now. It was asked if these staff be switched to paid positions, and pro rated? Mr. Stoddard asked what they would do for the fall. It was suggested that they would wait until the next year. Dr. Adams pointed out that the district had actually paid the fall coaches and not the others in the past. Mr. Presley asked what to do if there were multiple volunteers. It was suggested that the coaches split the salary.

Dr. Adams suggested a motion to do this. Mr. Williams made the motion. It passed.

Mrs. Voigt mentioned for Mr. Doster that the elementary had had its second blowout for good behavior. This involved a freeze dance.

Mrs. Voigt spoke of the 21st Century Learning Grant. The money had still not been released. The after school program would run Monday through Thursday for three hours. This was to involve not only tutoring but also enrichment. They really wanted the students to have fun, and learn through interesting activities.

Mr. Stoddard had been approached by someone wondering if the board would consider doing the same thing for support staff salaries as had been done for professional salaries, which had been put on the website. A visitor said that there had been errors on the website. Mr. Stoddard said that they had done the best they could and made it as accurate as they could. He asked the board if they ought to post support staff. It was responded by at least one board member that this seemed fair. Some members of the support staff present didn’t see a problem with it, saying that people thought they made more than they did.

On December 19th the New Milford Township supervisors motioned and accepted their 2013 budget. It was explained that the revenue appeared to be high, as they had been told that the impact fees should be included. This however was a guesstimate as they did not yet have the funds. A reporter asked if there was any change in the taxes. Mr. Hunter responded that, if anything, they might be lowered. If they were it wouldn’t be by much, but they definitely wouldn’t be raised.

In the past, Mr. Hunter said, someone had asked what they would do with the impact money, and it had been responded that one thing they would do would be to upgrade equipment. One of the greatest needs, Mr. Hunter explained, was a grader. The township had found that they could sell their current grader to Gibson Township via the Intergovernmental Cooperation Act, for $100,000 in total. They had then looked about for a new grader; through the Costars program there was no need to put it out to bid. There had been two options, the Case and the John Deere. The supervisors had driven the Case and were happy with it; the motion was made and approved to purchase that piece of equipment.

Susquehanna Gathering had applied for an ESCGP-1 permit for the CDP-2 project, up off the East Lake Road. This would include the construction of .23 miles of 20 foot wide new gravel access road. It was for a compressor station planned to be located on East Lake, across from the swamp.

Also, that company had applied for an ESCGP permit for PAD 21 on Carey Road, to install one 16” pipeline (initially for water, later for gas), and one 8” pipeline (for gas), to run approximately 555 feet. This pad wasn’t in place yet.

Meshoppen Stone had applied for and authorized to crush stone on well pad 11 up in the highlands. Permission had been granted.

FEMA had closed out the township’s funding process in response to last year’s September flooding.

Mr. Bondurant, Emergency Management Coordinator, gave an informational notice that 911 and Emergency Management had been merged into one department. They were still looking at the emergency call notification system. It was suggested that perhaps they could use the county’s system, and promote use of it to township residents. They had looked into the one call system that the school had, but it would require them maintaining the database, and people would still have to sign up for it. There was municipal capability with the county system. Mr. Bondurant said they hadn’t precluded ever signing up for their own system.

Solicitor Briechle and Mr. Bondurant had spoken with DCED and PSATS and had come up with a flood ordinance they were happy with. They were to present it to the supervisors.

The meeting then adjourned.

The Susquehanna County DOMESTIC RELATIONS Section has outstanding BENCH WARRANT’S for the following individuals as of 10:03 a.m. on December 21, 2012: Elbert G. Allen, Jeremy E. Anderson, Sr, Sharon Baker, Charles R. Biesecker, Christopher R. Brenner, Sarah A. Briggs, Daniel M. Brown, Jason J. Carroll, William J. Casey, Thomas D. Earley, Jonathan Fathi, David J. Fischer, Keith R. Hurd, John J. Jenisky, Jr, Richard E. Kalinowski, James Karhnak, Kay L. Knolles, Lee Labor, Todd J. Layton, Charlie J. Legere, Derrick J. Lezinsky, Tabitha McGrade, Ricahrd A. Murphy III, Anastacia V. Poff, Perry Rohan, Bruce A. Schurr, Desiree L. Shifler, David J. Shiner, Jerome W. Slick, Eric J. Snell, Stephen Sorensen, Jennifer L. Thatcher, Tessa E. Thomas, Justin S. Thompson, Earl H. Thompson, Jr, Steven G. Warner, Roger Williams, Jamie L. Williams, Sr., Dina C. Wilson, Kelly Lynn Yarbrough. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.

At a very brief December meeting on the 20th, a bare quorum of four members of the Hallstead Borough Council closed out 2012 by formally adopting a budget for 2013 and approving some renovations to the Borough Building at Franklin and Lackawanna Avenues.

Overall expenses in 2013 are projected at $255,948, an increase of about 24% over the total projected for 2012. During 2012 the borough received grant funds for the park, plus about $50,000 from the natural gas impact fee distribution. Council projects only about $35,000 from impact fees next year to be on the safe side. They also expect about $4,500 in additional revenue from renting part of the borough building for a hair salon. The budget also projects a hefty increase of about $34,000 from the state liquid fuel subsidy. Otherwise the budget looks pretty much the same, with no increase in property taxes.

Council also decided to purchase new windows for the new second-floor kitchen, and two new outside doors ? with deadbolt locks for greater security.

Having accomplished what they set out to do on a raw evening five days before Christmas, they wished each other a happy holiday and adjourned less than 5 minutes after they began.

The same to you, everyone.

Having waited the required 20 days or more since proposing a budget for 2013, and not hearing any objections from the public, the Harford Township Supervisors met in a special session on December 18th to give it formal approval before adjourning for the year.

The new budget doesn’t require any new property taxes, but properties on the sewer system will be assessed an additional $3 per month per household (actually, per Equivalent Dwelling Unit, or EDU). Billed quarterly, beginning with the 2nd quarter of 2013, sewer subscribers’ bills will be $123 per EDU, up from the previous $114. Supervisor Garry Foltz wasn’t sure that was enough.

With the sewer budget seriously in deficit, particularly considering the loan that was required to pay for a recent upgrade at the sewage plant, the Supervisors unanimously agreed to balance it with a contribution from the $128,246.76 received from the “impact fee” imposed by the state on natural gas drilling operations under last year’s Act 13. Mr. Foltz said that the impact fee money should be to the benefit of all Harford’s residents, not just those few on the sewer system.

Supervisor Doug Phelps agreed, but argued that the township “can’t raise sewer fees that much in one year” to cover the accumulated deficit. While the $3 per month increase yields only about $11,000 per year, he proposed that the fees be increased each year until the budget balances against its own revenue. He also hopes to see some savings from more efficient plant operation after the upgrade. The Supervisors also adopted a measure that recognizes the debt obligation with the bank.

The Supervisors adopted a resolution “to amend the 2012 budget” that describes a new bank account for the “impact fee” money.

As a result of discussions at the regular December meeting the week before, the Supervisors appointed Conrad Owen, Josephine Geer and Jacob Rosen to 5-year terms on something called the “Harford Municipal Authority.” The Authority, created under a 1973 ordinance, oversees the Harford Water Association, that in turn manages the domestic water supply to Harford village. The appointments will allow the Authority to pursue some legal avenues that they hope will provide more stability for the water system and straighten out some property titles that have recently come to light.

The Supervisors took the opportunity to authorize the purchase of half of the cinder allotment for the season, in preparation for the inevitable snowstorms.

And Supervisor and Township Secretary Sue Furney reported that the Bluestone Pipeline company had “adopted” 20 county children to receive Christmas presents. All of the Supervisors agreed that the township’s experience with the pipeline project and the companies involved has been very positive.

The Harford Township Supervisors will next meet in public session on Monday, January 7, 2013 to organize themselves and to transact business. The normal schedule of meetings on the 2nd Tuesday of each month will resume in February.

At the December 20th meeting of the New Milford Borough council, a question was raised regarding the burned out house on Peck Hill. It was stated that the secretary had spoken with COG about the house. The COG representative pointed out that the borough ordinance regarding burned houses was passed after the house burned. However, there was a nuisance ordinance which might be able to be used, if council sent the Codes Enforcement Officer to ask the property owner to take away the visual nuisance. Also, there were no permits through COG for another house at the end of Montrose Street. They had put a stop order on it, and no more work was being done. It was stated that these properties could be a safety hazard. Mr. Ainey said that the nuisance ordinance had been used for burned buildings before. It was decided that council would send the CEO to the properties.

Mrs. Drake spoke about the park grant. The money had come back in for the grant. All of the grant money for the borough had been spent.

She then spoke about pool upgrades, stating that the pool could not open up as it was. There was good news regarding funding for these upgrades. She had received a letter from the Constitution Pipeline, and the borough had received $25,000 from their grant program. The Community Foundation had also been spoken with, and for a small fee they would administer a fund raising process for projects like this. She planned, too, to apply for a few more grants. The pool needed a handicapped lift and steps, and they had the money to do so with the grant. However, there were other pipe improvements which could be made. There was some brief discussions regarding what should be done, and what could be done.

Ms. Gulick asked how often the stairs needed to be redone. Mrs. Drake responded that maybe every five or six years they were being replaced.

Ms. Gulick called it a fabulous park. When asked, Mrs. Drake estimated that over 4,000 kids had used the pool during the last year (including repeats).

There was some discussion regarding making the Parks Association into a formal Parks Board, appointed by the borough council.

DEP had announced the opening of the natural gas vehicle program, it was said.

The question was raised regarding whether or not there was anything the borough could do to help the drainage on Peck Hill, even if the obstacles at the top of the hill were not fixed. There was FEMA/PEMA money to work on it, and it was hoped that this could still be used.

The safety risk regarding Johnson Street was noted. The borough was still waiting on this project.

There had been a gentleman who had left a note at the borough building, with concerns about lowering the speed limit on Main Street. It was stated that there had not been other public feedback. Some council members said that if people were speeding at 35 miles an hour, they would still speed even where the limit lowered to 25 mph.

Ms. Hine had spoken with PennDot regarding shrubs on Main Street. PennDot had replied that the state went curb to curb. Whoever owned the nearest intersecting street was responsible, then, for sight control. Mr. White suggested that a letter be sent to the property owner pointing out that someone had brought to councils’ attention that there was a safety concern there due to visual obstruction.

Mr. White said that a couple of residents had come to him to ask about Summit Street again, asking for another stop sign. He had come up with an idea. If that street were one way, it might help with the problem. Ms. Gulick pointed out that if a tractor trailer was hung up by Vogel’s again, that was the only means of accessing 848.

The driveway ordinance was also brought up. Mr. Taylor said that he thought the driveway ordinance should be passed, but he felt that someone ought to document the existing driveways first. It was decided to send the ordinance on to the solicitor. There was still no news on the brake retarder ordinance.

Ms. Cosmello had spoken with DCED regarding a traffic light and sidewalks. The DCED representative had stated that he would like to come meet with council members to start discussing a plan. It was decided that he be asked to come and speak with the Economic Development committee.

An Earned Income Tax meeting with employers was to be scheduled for the 9th and/or the 23rd, for informational purposes. The meeting was to be public, and advertised around town. It was felt that there was some misinformation out there.

The 2013 budget was adopted. An ordinance was also approved fixing the tax rate for 2013, with no tax increase.

A zoning hearing board was scheduled to meet the day after the meeting, to consider a hearing for a variance. This was a public meeting. The question was raised regarding whether or not the borough council was going to take a position, and whether council members were attending as council members or residents. Mr. Taylor said that his concern was the can of worms the variance could be opening. The business in question was pursuing business purposes in a residential zone. Ms. Gulick stated that if a person drove around town she would see a lot of commercial vehicles parked in driveways. Ms. James said that the root issue was whether he was in or out of violation. The question, Mr. White said, was whether council was going to back them granting a variance. His opinion, he continued, was that no visitor had come before council to complain of it. He would be in favor of the variance, personally.

Ms. Gulick said that there were so many people in the town that had the same thing. Mr. Tayor said however, rebutted that no other person had eight trucks parked in their driveway.

Mr. White said that people had come to him asking if the borough council was against the business. The owner planned on moving out of the area. If there was a stipulation in the variance which said that he had a certain amount of time to move out, Mr. White continued, he would back it. The owner, Ms. Gulick said, had spoken with her some time ago, stating that he did plan to move to an area outside of town. Mr. Taylor and Ms. James agreed that bringing a person’s own truck home would not be a problem. Mr. Taylor again pointed out that this was not one vehicle.

The property was not owned by the business owner; he leased it. He had not applied for the variance, the property owner had. A visitor asked, then, if the variance would remain, even were the property sold. It was thought that the variance went with the property.

Mr. Ainey made a motion that the borough council not take a stand at the zoning hearing board. The motion was made, and carried. It was clarified, however, that council members could come and speak as residents. It was suggested that they make this very clear.

Mr. Ainey said that he would like to see a barrier erected, were the variance granted, between the business and the borough park. It was thought that perhaps this could be suggested at the next night’s hearing.

Mr. Ainey asked what was being done with Leatherstocking. They had expressed a wish to meet with the council. It was suggested that the meeting be scheduled at the next public meeting.

Mr. Ainey had spoken with the leaders of NEP Telephone. They had drilled the holes for the scoreboard sign, and Mr. Ainey asked if they had been thanked. The Triplets had sent them a thank you, it was responded. It was suggested that the borough send one as too. The company planned to hang up the score board as well.

Mr. and Mrs. Lempke had donated all of the candy for the goodie bags for the Santa in the park. Mr. and Mrs. Burns, Mr. and Mrs. James, and Ms. Cosmello had donated all of the ink for the cards. The New Milford Men’s Club had donated the lunch. It was stated that there was a good turnout, and the event was spoken of very highly.

The Susquehanna County Commissioners announce the Courthouse will be closed on Tuesday, January 1, 2013 in observance of the New Year’s Holiday. All court related offices will be available.

Joshua Bennett, 25, of Montrose, PA to 5 days to 6 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $300 fine, pay $100 CAT Surcharge, pay $10 EMS fee, pay $100 Act 198 fee, attend safe driving school program, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation, pay restitution to the victims in this case for Driving Under the Influence in Rush Township on June 2, 2012.

Michael H Seeley, 53, of Meshoppen, PA to 5 days to 6 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $300 fine, pay $100 Act 198 fee, pay $10 EMS, pay $100 CAT Surcharge, attend safe driving school program, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation for Driving Under the Influence in Rush Township on June 10, 2012.

Sandy M Theobald, 33, of Susquehanna, PA to 15 months probation, pay $150 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to the victim in this case, continue with drug and alcohol counseling for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Great Bend on March 22, 2012.

Scott Arthur Evans, 28, of Forest City, PA to 5 years probation, pay $150 fine, pay restitution to the victim in this case for Burglary in Forest City Borough on June 7, 2010. Mr. Evans also received 5 years probation to run concurrent to the above sentence, pay $150 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to the victim in this case for Burglary in Uniondale on June 29, 2010. Mr. Evans also received 5 years probation to run concurrent to the above sentences, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, pay $150 fine, pay restitution to the victim in this case for Burglary in Franklin Township on May 27, 2010. Finally, Mr. Evans received 5 years probation to run concurrent to the above sentences, pay $150 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to the victim in this case for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Clifford Township on June 28, 2010.

Crash: On December 20th at 9:05 pm Alexander Pagliaro of Plainview, Ny was traveling south on SR 81 in Lenox Township when, while passing Dean Aikans of Norwich, NY, he lost control of his vehicle, which spun out and was struck by Aikans' vehicle. It then impacted a guide rail.

Burglary: PSP Gibson is investigating an incident in which a Thompson home was forcefully entered, and a cd player stolen from within. Anyone with information is asked to please call PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

Receiving Stolen Property/Recovered Stolen Vehicle: On December 17th a trooper recovered the 1998 Green Subaru Legacy, which was reported stolen from the Oakdale Mall in Johnson City on December 15th. The vehicle was recovered from a Liberty Township property. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson or the Johnson City Village Police Department.

Criminal Mischief: Kyle Spencer of Windsor, NY is accused of kicking out the window on a Montrose woman's 1999 Ford F-150 truck on December 17th at 6:21 pm, causing over $400 in damage. Charges were filed at District Court 34-3-01.

Retail Theft: Daniel Vonfricken of Wynantskill, NY is cited for a theft of gas incident, which occurred on November 30th at 7 pm.

Disorderly Conduct: On November 2nd at 9 pm Ricardo Alvarez, Michael Shiner, Codey Cobb, a juvenile girl, and a juvenile boy, both of New Milford were cited for Disorderly Conduct. Shiner was also cited for under age drinking.

Theft of a Motor Vehicle: Between the 17th and 23rd of November, an ATV belonging to a Herrick Township man was stolen, while parked outside his residence. The vehicle is described as a 1984 Yamaha 3 wheeler, black and yellow in color with a silver skull on the handle bars.

Scattering Rubbish: The police are investigating the dumping of approximately 30 used tires at a Harford Township location, on December 18th between noon and four pm. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Theft by Unlawful Taking: Sometime between November 28th and December 17th, two bottles of Morphine Liquid Sulfate were stolen from Gracious Living Estates in Bridgewater Township. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Burglary: Sometime between December 10th and 16th the residence of a Susquehanna man was entered, and a television and an old HP computer stolen from within. Anyone with information is asked to contact the police.

Hit and Run: On December 14th at 12:30 pm an unknown driver was traveling east on SR 492. The top of his load contacted a telephone wire which was strung from a telephone pole across the road connecting the house at 5087 to 492. The wire fell to the ground. The operator of the truck stopped and pulled the wire from the road, then got back into the truck and fled the scene traveling east on SR 492. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Crash: On December 15th at 11:55 pm Alan Saravitz of Meshoppen was traveling east on SR 3023 when he lost control of his vehicle as he was attempting to negotiate a left curve, the Ford Ranger entered a counter-clockwise slide. It traveled from the eastbound lane and across the westbound lane. The vehicle traveled off the roadway and struck an embankment with the left front end. The Ranger continued along the embankment approximately 78' before it rolled over. It then traveled approximately 22', coming to rest on its roof. Saravitz was utilizing a seat belt; he was not injured.

Theft: On November 27th, between 7 am and 2 pm a Kingsley man reported, items were stolen from his residence, belonging to three different victims. Items taken included money, clothes, personal documents, and a gun. Anyone with information is asked to please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

Crash: On December 14th at 5:04 pm Mary Kinsey of New Milford was traveling north on SR 547 in that town when, while negotiating a right curve in the roadway, the vehicle crossed the oncoming lane and exited the left side of the roadway. After leaving the roadway, it slid across the grass and made impact with a tree, coming to rest facing a northerly direction. The driver was transported to the hospital by her boyfriend. A citation was issued for roadways laned for traffic. Kinsey was utilizing a seat belt; she sustained minor injury.

Possession of Small Amount of Marijuana: On December 12th at 9:08 pm Anthony Stento of Binghamton was stopped for speeding. A search of the vehicle revealed a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia concealed inside the vehicle. Stento was to be charged with Possession of Small Amount of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia via summons.

Crash: On December 13th at 7:50 pm a Susquehanna man was traveling west on Main Street when he lost control of his Ford F-150 and struck a parked Jeep Grand Cherokee on the north shoulder of the road. Upon impact the Jeep was pushed forward, at which time it struck two mail boxes. The driver was utilizing a seat belt; he was not injured.

Simple Assault: PSP Gibson is investigating an incident in which Howard Walter Jr. allegedly struck a juvenile female in the face with a closed fist, resulting in injuries. The accused was charged with simple assault.

Crash: On December 12th at 5:25 pm an unnamed driver was stopped in an unknown vehicle on SR 706 in Bridgewater Township, waiting to turn left onto SR 1026 (School Road), while a Nissan Titan (driver also unnamed) was stopped behind it. David Lema-Loja of Susquehanna failed to stop behind the traffic, and struck the Titan, pushing it into the unknown vehicle. The driver of the unknown vehicle left the scene for unknown reasons. The other two drivers were both transported to Endless Mountain Health care as a precaution. Lema-Loja was cited for careless driving, driving without required insurance, and driving without a driver's license. He sustained minor injury; seatbelt use was listed as unknown.

Hit and Run: On December 10th at 4 am an unknown vehicle with dual rear wheels backed off of SR 848 in New Milford Township and struck an NEP telephone pole, doing damage to a cross connector box. The driver fled the scene.

Crash: On December 10th at 12:40 Stephanie Belcher of Clifford Township was traveling north on SR 2069 when her vehicle traveled off of the roadway and struck a drainage culvert and rolled onto its roof. A seat belt and child safety seats were in use; neither the driver nor two passengers were injured.

Crash: On December 11th at 5:04 am Lauren Brown of Mechanicsburg, PA was traveling north bound on I-81 in New Milford Township when she lost control of her vehicle, which began a clockwise rotation and exited the roadway to the east of the travel lanes. The vehicle impacted an embankment and roadway sign off the travel lanes. It began a rolling maneuver toward the driver's side, impacted a series of trees, and rolled, coming to a rest up right and in contact with a tree. Brown was transported from the scene by New Milford Ambulance to Barnes and Kasson Hospital for injuries obtained during the collision; she was utilizing a seat belt.

Theft and Criminal Mischief: Between the 9th and 10th of December a vending machine at the Welcome Center in Great Bend Township was broken into. Approximately $150 in cash was stolen. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

DUI: On November 27th at 9:49 pm Thomas Deangelo of Binghamton, NY was operating a 2007 Chrysler Sebring and crashed on State Route 11 in New Milford Township. While investigating the crash, the accused displayed signs of intoxication and was subsequently arrested on suspicion of DUI. Charges were filed at District Court 34-3-02.

Crash: On December 7th at 8 am Mahmoud Abdelfattah of Orleans, was traveling south in the right lane of SR 81 when, after traveling over an ice covered bridge, he lost control of his vehicle and traveled onto the left shoulder, striking a guardrail with its front end. The vehicle spun counterclockwise, coming to a rest in the northwest in the middle of both southbound lanes. He was utilizing a seat belt; he was not injured.

Crash: On December 7th at 8:01 am Richard Lindstrom of Vestal, NY was traveling south in the left lane of SR 81 when he observed a disabled vehicle in the roadway. It lost control on an ice covered roadway traveling into the right shoulder, striking a guardrail with its front end. It spun clockwise, coming to a final rest facing south in the right lane. A second vehicle, driven by Brian Aikins of Leonardsville, NY struck the first vehicle in the left side with its right front end. Both drivers were utilizing seat belts; neither sustained injury.

Anyone with information regarding any of these incidents please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 465-3154.

BURGLARY - On 11/01/2012, SLTPD responded to a call for a burglary in Silver Lake Township. An investigation at the scene showed that thousands of dollars worth of furniture may have been taken from the residence. A suspect has been arrested in this case and court prosecution has begun.

ASSIST OTHER AGENCY - On 11/01/2012, SLTPD was requested to assist PSP with a 911 hang-up call in Franklin Township.

THEFT/ CRIMINAL MISCHIEF - On 11/05/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident was under investigation for theft of services and criminal mischief for his actions involving unpaid bills for services to his residence which were not paid.

SUSP VEHICLE - On 11/05/2012, a suspicious vehicle was seen in Forest Lake Township which may have been involved with poaching deer which were found shot.

THEFT (CIVIL MATTER) - On 11/14/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident alleged that money was being stolen from his father’s bank account by family members. After an initial investigation it was determined that no money was taken and that the situation was a civil matter.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE - On 12/09/2012, a suspicious vehicle was reported driving back and forth on Hamlin Road in Forest Lake Township and appeared to be surveying the area.

ANIMAL COMPLAINT - On 11/10/2012, SLTPD was en route to Forest Lake Township and encountered an injured deer to which the PA Game Commission responded to the scene. A yellow lab dog was also seen walking dangerously in the middle of the North Road and had to be moved to a nearby area.

TREES DOWN - On 11/13/2012, SLTPD responded to the Quaker Lake Road for trees down blocking the roadway. Silver Lake Fire personnel responded and cut up the tree hazard.

MISC INVESTIGATION - On 11/14/2012, SLTPD was called for cattle blocking the roadway on Brinton Road, Silver Lake Township.

ASSIST OTHER AGENCY (MVA) - On 11/14/2012, a Forest Lake Township resident crashed his vehicle in Liberty Township. PSP requested SLTPD to handle the crash. There were no injuries and the vehicle was towed by High Tech.

PFA VIOLATION - On 11/15/2012, a PFA violation was reported in Silver Lake Township involving individuals in N.Y. State and PA and with multiple violations and agencies involved. The agencies are working together and this activity is still under investigation.

DOMESTIC DISPUTE - On 11/15/2012, SLTPD was called to a residence in Silver Lake Township for an active domestic. PSP and Montrose assisted and this case is being handled in the courts.

THEFT - On 11/23/2012, it was reported that old farm equipment had been taken out of a field in Silver Lake Township. A hay tender and plow which had been on the property for many years was missing.

MVA/ NON-REPORTABLE - On 11/27/2012, a report of a 2-vehicle MVA turned out to be vehicles stuck on icy roads due to the icy road conditions. They all had to wait for Penndot to work and clear the roads.

DISABLED VEHICLE - On 11/27/2012, a vehicle was stuck in the middle of the North Road in Forest Lake Township due to the icy roadway. Forest Lake Fire had to assist with traffic control until the situation was rectified.

HARASSMENT - On 11/27/2012, an on-going domestic situation flared up in Silver Lake Township involving individuals who have been making allegations back and forth. This is a situation which is being handled in civil court.

Any information or questions for Silver Lake Township Police, please call 570-278-6818 or e-mail at silverlaketwppd@epix.net. All information will be held strictly confidential. You can look at the Silver Lake Township Website at silverlaketwp.org, to see all of Silver Lake Townships’ news, profiles and resources, including the police reports.