Pictured are The Harrisburg contingent of, from left, Tom Yoniski of Senator Baker's staff, Ashely White and Hannah Barrick of the PSBA, Laurie Brown-Bonner, chair of the Blue Ridge School Board, state Representative Sandra Major, Bill Goldsworthy of the governor's Scranton office, and Aaron Shenck, representing the state Department of Education.

Six people representing a spectrum of views from Harrisburg faced another 20 or so representing public education in Susquehanna County in the Blue Ridge cafeteria for a couple of hours on the evening of March 26th for the annual county “legislative conference.” There wasn’t much controversy among the participants, unless you count the exasperation of the school directors and administrators with what appeared to them to be indifference toward public schools in the state legislature and government.

At the invitation of Blue Ridge School Board chair Laurie Brown-Bonner, Hannah Barrick, Government Relations Director at the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA), the lobbying organization for public schools led off with a fast-paced and detailed run-down of legislation currently in the works that would affect schools across the state. Others on the panel included Ms. Barrick’s colleague from the PSBA, Ashley White; Tom Yoniski, a field representative for State Senator Lisa Baker; Bill Goldsworthy, Deputy Director of the governor’s Scranton office; Sandra Major, General Assembly Representative for the 111th district; and Aaron Shenck, Director of the state Department of Education’s Government Relations office.

Governor Corbett has offered his budget for the fiscal year that begins in July and, according to Ms. Barrick and Mr. Shenck, overall funding for public schools would increase slightly – if the governor’s budget passes as proposed, which it never does. The complexity of school funding in Pennsylvania was amply illustrated by the blizzard of figures for cuts here, increases there, changes in programs that would add demands or relieve the stress somewhere else in the budget. Everyone else deferred to Ms. Barrick’s comprehensive understanding of budget detail. No one, of course, offered figures in constant dollars.

Four topics are of major concern to public schools across the state, no less to schools in Susquehanna County:

Charter schools – particularly the so-called “cyber-charter” schools – cost the public schools dearly because they often aren’t aware of students enrolled in them until they are presented with a bill at the end of a school year. And the state reimbursement to the school districts for these payments is computed on a formula that returns barely more than half of what the local districts have to pay out. Montrose Superintendent Mike Ogonsky said that cyber-charter enrollments in his district will cost his district’s taxpayers as much as $700,000 this year. Some said they didn’t discount the value of charter schools. In fact, many districts are developing their own cyberschool programs. Families should be given the option of using the public school programs where available before choosing a private alternative. Christina Whitney of Blue Ridge said that families sending children to anything but public schools should be fully responsible for paying the cost in any case.

The state pension program threatens to bankrupt some schools with hefty increases in contributions required of local schools to bolster the retirement fund that covers retired teachers. The PSERS fund suffered heavily in the economy’s crash in 2008 and following, and is still seriously underfunded. The governor’s budget proposes to shift new employees into a 401(a)-type retirement system, and away from the defined-benefits plan that still serves the thousands of retired teachers in Pennsylvania.

Blue Ridge Superintendent Robert McTiernan complained about the new teacher evaluation system offered by the state Department of Education. He said that the way it works it has no value to the schools because it has no teeth in it: the evaluations cannot be used to discipline or terminate an underperforming teacher. Francine Shea, Superintendent at Mountain View, became nearly apoplectic about the weakness of a system that “observes” teachers only once a year. Public school districts want a better way to “furlough” ineffective faculty for “economic” reasons. Currently furloughs (layoffs) must adhere to a complex set of requirements that include seniority, tenure, union contracts and only marginally involve performance evaluations and cost.

Some school districts – notably Elk Lake – are involved in construction projects that are tangled in the state’s PlanCon system that provides state subsidies for major projects, but that has been in limbo for several years because of state budget shortfalls. Mr. Shenck said that the logjam remains in place awaiting the results of a study before legislation can be offered to provide more funding.

The latest proposal that many hope may relieve some of the financial stress is the privatization of the state liquor stores. Various estimates place the value of the sale at about $1 billion. The governor has suggested that the entire amount be directed to the schools. Mr. Shenck said that Elk Lake, for example, might receive as much as $470,000 out of the sale. A bill has already passed the house, but could easily be modified in the senate.

Several participants bemoaned the typical way such new sources of revenue are handled in Harrisburg, where the money is placed in a fund and districts must either compete for the money, or the dollars are designated only for specific purposes. They would like to be trusted more with local control. Mr. Yonisky, noted however, that not all school districts are as honest or well-managed as those in Susquehanna County. State-wide regulation can provide better oversight, yet often stifles local initiative and leads to conflict between the urban centers of Philadelphia, Pittsburg and Scranton and the rural districts like the six in Susquehanna County whose needs are dramatically different. Mr. Ogonsky noted as just one example, that 50 students attending cyber-charter schools would get lost in the details in the budget of Philadelphia, but in the Montrose School District those payments become much more significant.

A related issue concerns the so-called “mandate waiver” program, which expired with the Education Empowerment Act 2 years ago. The program allowed districts to apply for relief from certain mandated requirements that either wouldn’t apply to a particular district, or would be too costly or burdensome. There is apparently little enthusiasm in Harrisburg for resurrecting that legislation.

Ms. Brown-Bonner asked why the state (or somebody) could not impose a small tax on the natural gas industry to benefit the schools. Ms. Major said that “gas drilling is not a school issue.” Saying she was proud of her efforts on behalf of the successful “impact fee” legislation known as Act 13, she said that “Susquehanna County has done very well” by the impact fee. Mr. Goldsworthy noted that the gas companies are the largest corporate taxpayers in the state, responsible for over $500 million last year in income taxes and impact fees. Local taxing authorities also benefit indirectly through higher property tax revenues, and personal income tax revenue from leases and royalties.

In general, as she always does, Ms. Major reminded listeners that the General Assembly has 253 members, 50 in the senate and 203 in the house of representatives. It takes a majority in each house – and the signature of the governor – to enact legislation. And, while geographically Pennsylvania is largely rural, population – and votes – are concentrated in the urban centers. Moreover, any single piece of legislation will have boosters on both (or many) sides.

Some questioned why legislation always ends up so complicated. Why not start with a simple bill that solves one problem? The answer, of course, is that to pass a bill requires 126 votes, and each of those votes may have to be bought with a compromise, or an amendment or two. Ms. Major reminded listeners that once a bill becomes law, legislators move on to something else, and that particular issue may not come up again for a long time.

Certainly nothing was solved at the meeting. The legislators and their representatives said they were there to listen to the views and concerns of school directors and officials. They probably didn’t hear anything they didn’t know or hadn’t heard about many times before. And there surely weren’t any promises of action on any of the burning issues brought to the table. There was some chagrin that only one actual legislator was present. Maybe they’ll do better next year, when Elk Lake hosts the conference.

This is NOT your grandmother’s school. For better AND for worse, the only constant is change. And that truism applies to Susquehanna Community School District (SCSD) as much as to any other institution.

At their Wednesday, March 20 meeting, School Board President Steven Stanford, Vice-President Clay Weaver, and board members Lori Canfield, Jason Chamberlain, Amanda Cook, Carol Jackson, Holly Kubus, and Martha Stanford gathered to recognize and ratify policies for a future brighter. Unfortunately, to secure that brighter future, ominous and threatening forces will have to be confronted and conquered first. Business Manager Gary Kiernan took notes - in the absence of Board Secretary and board member Evelyn Cottrell.

The forty-minute meeting covered a broad range of topics, including school funding/revenues & expenses, safety solutions, curricula, personnel actions, and student recognition for excellence. That recognition of student excellence came early on in the evening’s meeting.

First honored by the school board were sophomores Susie Chamberlain and Tiara Leonard for their second-place finish in the Graphic Design category at the 10th Annual NEIU Computer Fair, held at Keystone College. Their innovative design of menu, centerpiece, and red-velvet cupcakes were remarkable for their imagination and eye-appeal. Although Miss Leonard was not able to be present, Miss Chamberlain was present to accept the kudos of the school board and H.S. Principal Mark Gerchman.

Mr. Gerchman also recognized senior Andrzej Zenon Tomczyk, who has been offered admission to the United States Military Academy Preparatory School at West Point, New York. Superintendent Bronson Stone noted that Mr. Tomczyk is the first Susky student in 30 years to be offered admission to a military service academy. In his remarks to the board Mr. Tomczyk thanked the school for their presentation to him of the game basketball when he scored his 1500th career during a basketball game a couple of weeks ago. That presentation had taken place at an awards ceremony earlier in the day. With the ball presentation and board recognition of West Point’s admission offer on his 18th birthday, “a perfect end to a perfect day” characterized Mr. Tomczyk’s unbounded felicity.

Superintendent Stone provided board members with an overview of the budgetary constraints under which they would be working for this next school year. While Governor Corbett’s budgetary proposal provides SCSD with a $61,000 increase, the increase is contingent on the legislature accepting his plan for pension reform. In that context, neither Mr. Stone nor Mr. Kiernan is planning on the $61K increase, especially in light of the $1.4 million in reductions over the last two years.

Other budgetary considerations on the board’s radar include prospective reductions in IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and Federal Title I funding by at least 10%; PSERS (Retirement System) increased cost by nearly 37%, thereby consuming 17% of the school district’s revenue; and a local property tax increased by 2.5%. The aforementioned financial trends contribute to a negative outlook and form the basis for the board’s previously approved decision to not replace retiring/resigning employees at a full-time level. District officials are keeping finances on an even keel, even as the State tries to figure out its budget and pension plans, and the Federal Government evokes faux convulsions under the guise of Sequester.

Beyond the gloomy financial outlook, police responses have been required on SCSD’s campus twice since the start of this year. Those incidents, on top of the Sandy Hook mass murders of last December, culminated in the board’s unanimous approval of an addition to the District’s Policy #705, “The school district campus will be closed for public use between 8 a.m. and 3:25 p.m. during the 180 instructional days each school year. On regularly scheduled early dismissal dates, public use will be permitted beginning at 12:30 p.m.”

Superintendent Stone added that he will present to the board next month a proposal for an armed police officer on campus full-time from 7:45 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. for those 180 instructional days, as well as a proposed contract for police services. It appears virtually certain that a level of security, once unimaginable as necessary in these rural surroundings, will soon be the norm. In our brave new world gun-free zones upgraded to high-tech fortresses in “no-go” zones will be patrolled by armed force in anticipation of an unspeakable evil that could be unleashed on innocents at any moment. This is not a criticism of these security measures; merely sadness and sorrow for an innocence lost, no matter that innocence was grounded more in myth than fact.

Still, behind those locked doors on a now-quarantined campus, learning proceeds. On Superintendent Stone’s recommendation, the board unanimously approved the district’s graduations requirements for the class of 2016 and beyond as follows: “In addition to other state mandated graduation requirement (Keystone Exams and senior project), students must earn 25 credits from the following content areas to graduate from the Susquehanna Community Jr./Sr. High School: four English credits, four math credits, four social studies credits, four science credits, two units of arts and/or humanities, one unit of health and physical education, one unit of techno, and four elective credits. Students who attend the Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center full-time their senior year must earn at least three credits in each of he following content areas: English, math, social studies and science.”

And even with passage of the above requirements, Superintendent Stone conceded that graduation standards will continue to evolve on a regular basis. In as little as six months the currently mandated senior project will become voluntary. Keystone Exams will number three for the class of 2017, four for the class of 2019, and five for the class of 2020. Details are available at the District’s website.

Superintendent Stone was pleased to announce that the high school’s stage area was now up to code: new pulleys installed; curtains cleaned and fireproofed and hung correctly; lighting dependable and modern. Elementary Principal Bob Keyes reported that 36 students were signed up already for next year’s K-4/K-5; make-up registration day is May 1 for others still planning to sign-up. Union Representative Kathy Hinkley reported that some 50 to 60 elementary children enjoyed “Bowl with Your Favorite Teacher” recently; their next fun fundraiser is Bingo at the school on Sunday, May 5.

Among the wide-ranging 22 approvals the board granted under new business was these:

- Exonerated the District Tax Collectors from the collection of unpaid school taxes for the year 2012. This puts the muscle of the County Treasurer into the arena to persuade non-payers that payment might be in their best interest.

- Approved the school calendar for the 2013/14 school year.

- Approved a modified summer work schedule for 235-260 day employees. This allows designated employees to begin work as early as 5 a.m., and benefits the district with energy savings of 20% while simultaneously improving productivity.

- Approved the Duel Enrollment Agreement with Lackawanna College for the 2013-14 school year. This program essentially saves participating SCSD students a full semester’s college tuition as they complete commensurate course-work.

- Approved a fall night football game, tentatively scheduled for October 11, 2013. Past night games have been extremely successful and the district will soon begin seeking corporate and community sponsorship to bring this to fruition.

- Approved a 15 cent rise in student and adult lunches for the 2013-14 school year. This will increase the price of a student lunch from the current $1.60 to $1.75. (Susky alumnae of a certain age may recall that a student lunch carried a cost 35 cents 40 years ago during the 1973-74 school year.)

- Approved numerous and varied requests for use of school facilities; field trips ranging from Vestal to Gettysburg; fundraisers; and assorted contracted ancillary services.

School Directors wrapped up at 7:40 p.m., and then partook of brownies and cupcakes (Cupcakes courtesy of Misses Chamberlain and Leonard.) as conversations turned to matters casual and light-hearted. Matters light-hearted and casual, for business manager Kiernan and me,  meant discussion of the Cyprus financial crisis, and its implications for Europe and beyond. There’s a brave new world out there and not even Susky schools are immune to its repercussions.

Next meeting of SCSD Directors is Wednesday, April 17.

At the beginning of the March 21st Elk Lake school board meeting (the SCCTC meeting was held earlier in the month), there were several members of the public present.

A visitor asked about the Williams Pipeline during the first hearing of visitors. Mrs. Teel stated that the board was scheduled to meet with their attorney at 7:30 in executive session for legal purposes. Visitors would then be given the opportunity to ask questions.

The visitor then asked if the flag in the room could be moved over the bookcases, as it was currently located over the bathroom door. She spoke of respect for the flag.

Mrs. Staats reported that the elementary students would be going to the Shriner’s circus.

Mr. Pironne spoke of pre-registration and registration for the following year’s kindergarten class. They had completed the data for the incoming kindergarten students. There was parent training occurring, addressing how to get ready for school and strategies to use when their kids were deficient in math and reading. A mandatory bus evacuation was scheduled for the following day. The 5th grade writing PSSA’s had been completed. The preliminary kindergarten enrollment was the same as it had been the previous year, anywhere from 90 to around 100 children.

Dr. Cuomo spoke about the student council. The district had hosted the 38th District 9 Student Leadership conference, with about 700 students from northeastern Pennsylvania descending on the district. It was the school’s first time hosting it. He commended the students and staff who pitched in, thanking them, and saying that there had been tremendous praise for the facility. The environment made the rural nature of the district shine, he opined. Dr. Bush added that the student council program was so successful that the district was requested to host the state student council convention in two years. The district had not yet committed to do this.

Three of the forensics team students had qualified to attend a national Forensics competition, and one of these would also be attending another national competition. This student, Austin Cohen, had a debate record of 71 and 3, he explained, and had surpassed over 300 wins. The latter made him number one in the state for wins, in state history. Dr. Cuomo related that what he felt was this students most important quality was that despite his success he was a very humble and respectful student. If you didn’t know about his achievements, he would never tell you.

Mr. Mallery spoke about the number of officials at basketball games, which had been spoken of at a previous board meeting. Recently LIAA representatives had met to discuss this subject, evaluation, etc. There was to be a proposal at an upcoming meeting to suggest that three officials be present at games and scrimmages, for both boys and girls. The total cost of this would be $1300 to $1500, estimated. Dr. Bush said that in the past the desire of the board and administration to have two officials rather than three officials had been shared, and that they would vote thus against the measure.

There were to be two presentations that evening, Dr. Bush explained, by the principals (though only one actually occurred). Dr. Cuomo gave an educator effectiveness presentation, saying that he was going to review the process for the instructor evaluation system expected to become effective the following year. He was to address 50% of the new system, and Mr. Mallery was to address the other portion.

Dr. Cuomo said that he had been doing observations for 21 years, and the new system would be nothing like what had been done in the past. In regards his 50%, the Danielson framework, it was broken down into four different domains. Those four domains were also located on the current educator evaluation instruments, which was about the only way the two were similar. He reiterated that this was only 50% of the evaluation procedure. There were additional evaluations tools in place for specialists, such as psychologists and nurses. Within these four domains there were 22 components, each of which were evaluated. These domains could be separated into on-stage and off-stage areas. Off-stage represented planning and preparation, professional development, and involvement in teams and committees. On-stage involved what happened in the classroom.

The third stage broke down to a four step process. The educators completed a document for domains 1 and 4 on their own at the beginning of the process. There was a preconference, an observation, and a post conference. It was instructor driven, instructor initiated, and instruction centered. In the past he had just gone into classes unannounced, and met with the instructor in a post observation conference. The new system was very heavy in educator involvement.

There were to be no qualitative statements, observers in the classroom were to be making strictly evidence based observations. An evaluation rubric was provided, against which the evidence was assessed. It was an evidence based evaluation, very little bias and very little subjectivity.

Dr. Cuomo explained that the process was evolving as it was moving forward, stating that in some ways the state was building the plane while flying it. He said that he liked the system for professional purposes. It left no stone unturned and was educator and student focused. It was a lengthy and detailed process, and a significant game changing process. He reiterated yet once again that this was only 50% of the evaluation. For the following year, however, it would be 85%, as the state hadn’t completely figured everything out yet. Eventually it was to return to 50% of the overall evaluation.

Mr. Tewksbury asked what was done with the documents, and what was the reward or punishment for scores. Dr. Cuomo said that the purpose of the Danielson model was instructor performance and student learning. It had never been developed to be an evaluative tool, despite the state using it as such. When Mr. Tewksbury pressed for repercussions, Dr. Cuomo explained that if an instructor received two needs improvements over ten years it amounted to a failure. When Mr. Tewksbury asked what that meant, Dr. Cuomo explained that it would lead to a corrective action plan and perhaps movement toward termination. Mr. Tewksbury asked if the educators would still have time for instruction.

Mrs. Teel asked about what information was sent to the state. She was wondering if it would be by instructor name, and it was confirmed that it would be.

Mr. Curley asked if Dr. Cuomo had a sense where the state might be heading with this. Dr. Cuomo explained that this was the one component which hadn’t changed much. This 50% was research based and was one of the top instructor effectiveness tools in the state. Mrs. Teel asked if this would be used to evaluate the school. Dr. Bush responded that it would be. Dr. Cuomo explained that the school had been working with curriculum mapping for the last several years, and if they had mapped appropriately domain one was primarily done.

Mr. Curley opined that if they were going to pick a tool to evaluate with, at least it was a tool that was effective. Dr. Bush said that he thought that the benefit to this change was that prior to this when observation had been pretty much subjective to what was observed in the classroom. Under this system, with the self-evaluation, the instructor was involved in deciding if they had met the criteria. Dr. Bush opined that this would be great for students in the future and for professional development.

At that point the board’s attorney had arrived, and an executive session was called. A visitor had a letter from Williams which he wished to give the board and attorney to take with them.

When the meeting reconvened, Mr. Abrahamson (the solicitor) gave a statement regarding the current status of the negotiations with Williams regarding the proposed pipeline across the district’s land. The negotiations were ongoing, he said, and he had been in touch with Williams’ lawyer. The purpose of the executive session had been to get some direction from the board. It was his direction to move expeditiously on the board’s behalf with the negotiations, in order to move the process forward. He would not say anything publicly, he asserted, due to the sensitive nature of the negotiations.

Mrs. Teel then did give the public the floor for their questions or comments, but explained that per the solicitor’s advice they might not answer.

A visitor asked if the one pipe was the only issue. She had heard that the district was trying to get the company to renegotiate regarding the existing pipe. The lawyer said that this was something he would prefer the board to leave to him as part of the negotiations. He said that negotiations were like playing poker, and he was afraid he wouldn’t be able to do a good job for the district if he discussed it in a public meeting.

Someone asked if anyone had made contact with a Williams representative to say that there was a public meeting that evening. Mrs. Teel said that they had not, but the board’s meetings were advertised. He then asked if there was a sense, knowing how long litigation could be drawn out, of when it might be resolved.

Mr. Abrahamson explained that there was no litigation, that the district had hired him with a direction to avoid litigation. There had been a hint that Williams might pursue litigation, but it was only a hint. Mr. Curley said that they had hired Mr. Abrahamson for sound legal advice. There were some points which they wished to negotiate. The reality was, he continued, that as a board they were eager to get this worked out, that they didn’t want to be a bad neighbor to anybody, but they wanted to be smart about it. They were representing the same people that they were hurting, he said. The same people hurting by waiting for the pipeline to be hooked up were the people who had a stake in the school. He said that he kind of wished that they had council enlisted from the beginning. He spoke of how in the beginning they had not known things, and all they were trying to do was not continue that pattern. He believed the course they were on was the right course. He felt the purpose of the letter the visitor had brought was just to ratchet things up and spin rhetoric. It seemed like the board members weren’t willing to talk, because they were looking out for people. He asked for trust, saying that they were doing their best to work things out.

The visitor said that he had heard the school’s side and Williams’ side, and that there had to be some point in the middle where it made sense. Mr. Curley replied that that was the point they were trying to get to, and that was when the papers would be signed.

The visitor said that they were there looking for truth. Mr. Place said that when the papers were signed they hoped to tell more. He said that the truth was, with all due respect to those present, their interest represented minimal acreage compared to what the board represented across the entire school district, and that was what the board was looking out for.

Another visitor asked what the turning point was which had changed their thinking process from the well and the Grosvenor line to the current situation. Mrs. Teel replied that she did not think there was a change in their mind; that had been an easement with Cabot and had been written differently. Mr. Curley said in that process there had been a certain level of naivety, and the board hadn’t known what they hadn’t known. As they moved through the process they were more aware of what they didn’t know, and they did not want to make the same mistakes. Dr. Bush added that when the original pipeline had come in, he had felt that the pad out there took in more than the school district. There had been a desire to be good neighbors and benefit others. However, as things developed they had become more aware.

Mr. Abrahamson spoke of a previous meeting, where it had been explained that the district had originally negotiated 1 ten inch line, and the paperwork said that the company could put multiple lines in of a varying size. This was what got the whole thing moving. The board had received an e-mail from Williams that they were coming in to start construction, and nothing had been resolved. A lot had been happening, he maintained. The board’s direction to him was to work as expeditiously as he could to try and come to an agreement, keeping in mind the interest of the school district.

A visitor said that there was so much talk in the neighborhood, and when they attended a meeting minds started building thoughts. It was admitted that this was frustrating. Mr. Place said that the board was also frustrated, as they had information which they could not talk about. Mr. Abrahamson opined that it would be best for the long run if they let him do the talking.

A visitor asked if the board had signed the agreement. The solicitor said that there was an agreement signed with the understanding from the landman of one ten inch pipe. That was when the solicitor was involved. No easement agreement was finally binding on the school district unless it was voted upon by the board, and was voted upon by 5 members of the 9 member board. This had not been done, and thus the agreement was not legally binding.

A visitor asked if when those concerned walked away they could be assured that the board would reach out to Williams. It was responded that they would. The visitor said that it was her understanding that Williams had walked away and were desperate and approaching surrounding landowners asking to tear up their land to get at the gas from that well.

A visitor said that she had a newspaper article from September that a contract regarding a pipeline was approved. She had also received a letter from Williams stating that they were okay with a single 10” line. Mr. Abrahamson said that this was an issue but not the only issue.

Mr. Place stated that regarding what was in the newspaper, this was not the minutes. The board approved the minutes, but the board had not approved the pipeline and that article was inaccurate.

Mr. Curley said that they couldn’t talk because they were obligated to take care of their constituents as best they could, while Williams could talk.

The visitor asked how far of a disturbance Williams was asking to make. No one present had the figures before them, but it was estimated to be in the 1,000 foot realm.

A visitor said that it was her understanding that the board did not want more money. Mr. Abrahamson recommended that the board not tie his hands.

Nick Sracic of Johnson Controls was present for an energy discussion. Mrs. Guiton introduced him, speaking to the Guaranteed Energy Savings Act. She reviewed what the district had done to increase energy efficiency. They had modified their behavior, chose new suppliers, investigated alternative energy, reverted to a 4 day work week at times, and maintained tightened heating and a/c schedules.

She had read about the Bradford County GESA Project, and then had met with them. All of their expenditures for this 3 million dollar project were funded by savings. Mr. Sracic had contacted the district, and she had requested him to discuss how the process worked and could help them complete some projects. There were wants, she said, but also needs. One of the needs was to replace secondary steam boilers and steam room systems. The steam boilers used up to 2.5 times as much fuel as hot water and did not respond to weather changes. There was also a lack of zone control.

Another need was the inevitable conversion to natural gas. At that time natural gas cost 35% less than propane and 50% less than fuel oil to heat the same space.

She then handed the floor over to Mr. Sracic, an engineer and account executive for K-12 schools.

He said that his company had completed some of the statistical work. There were infrastructure issues existing currently. He said that there was money which might be available through rebates with Act 129. These rebates were to be renewed the coming summer. That would be for some of the work already done, and there were to be additional funds available for future work. In addition to this the interest rates were very low and there was a moratorium on the PlanCon process.

PA Act 39 legislation was then reviewed. The savings had to exceed the costs. There was a 20 year payback criteria, but this was the maximum time period, and it could be less. Any claimed savings had to be verified and proven. The selection process had to be via a sealed proposal, and the district determined the selection criteria. There were no PDE requirements such as PlanCon, and the district could choose to accept or reject contractors subjectively rather than by price exclusively.

He said that the energy and natural gas savings could fund an infrastructure renewal project between $3-$4.5 million, representing a substantial portion of the necessary upgrades, and that they could cut the district’s annual operating costs for energy in half. If the savings were short, his company issued a check for the difference to the district.

He said that they moved slowly with school districts. They had run a statistical analysis, and would propose to do a cursory walk through. This would be done before asking the board to take any action which was a financial obligation. The company requested a memorandum of understanding, asking if the district was interested. This had no legal requirement to choose his company.

Dr. Bush felt that the board needed a little bit of time to digest the information, and it was tabled until at least the next meeting.

Dr. Bush then broached the subject of the 2013-2014 school calendar. It was very similar to the current year’s calendar he said. Mrs. Ives asked if there was a reason why the district had to have snow days in the calendar. She said that she knew families scheduled vacations, and asked if the district couldn’t just put snow days at the end of the year rather than choosing days during the year which would be used as snow days. Dr. Bush said that this was a good point, but that what he kept in mind was that there were winters in the past where the year went into the second and third weeks of June.

Mr. Curley said that if they were doing it that way he felt that they should at least be marked differently on the calendar. He said that his kids wanted to make their days up now, and didn’t want them at the end of the year. Mrs. McGee brought up the idea of seniors and college time schedules being crunched as well. Mr. Place said that they would also have to consider the sending schools.

Dr. Bush reviewed a portion of the district budget. At that time the district had a deficit of $585,633.80. There were some positions which the district would cut, in regards to not replacing retired staff. These cuts were in the budget, and even with that the deficit existed. They were looking at other ways to cut, though Dr. Bush said that to be honest there had been so many cuts the previous year regarding equipment and supplies that there was not much room to cut anymore.

Cuts would be looked at, however the retirement commitments were a barrier. There was to be a 2.3% increase in salary proposed for the following year, but an 11% increase regarding benefits (including retirement). It was hoped that for the April 18th meeting there would be a full budget available for review.

The numbers did not include an increase in tax millage, Dr. Bush stated in response to a question by Mr. Tewksbury. Dr. Bush wished to share with the board the unofficial figure that between the two previous budgets and this budget, they were looking at probably 30 positions which were not replaced.

Elk Lake was to host the Scholar of the Year dinner. In the past the IU had taken care of the banquet somewhere in Scranton. The year previous they had asked the district to host, and the request had been repeated for this year. It was to be held in the gym. The IU reimbursed the district a set amount for the catering.

The district had some resolutions to take action on, Dr. Bush then explained. PSBA did a good job of getting information out to the legislators. The first resolution was regarding cyber charter funding. The district had paid over 1.2 million dollars since 2009 for this. They had been reimbursed over $100,000, and it was for a little over 100 students. This was money he said that districts could use.

The next item regarded state funding for construction. There had been a push for some relief regarding this topic.

The final resolution regarded pension reform. This was quite alarming to look at, the employer contribution rate was expected to increase, topping 30% for several years, and double digits for a time after.

Dr. Bush asked Dr. Cuomo to confirm the maximum distance a student could be expected to walk to a bus. It was responded that this would be 1.5 miles for elementary students and 2 miles for secondary.

Mr. Place said that there had been an induction for 11 students into the National Honor Societies. There had been 27 people in the audience, and he wished to compliment the program and those involved. Dr. Cuomo had taken a snippet of each student’s essays and put them together. Mrs. Carr had also attended the National Junior Honor Society induction.

Mr. Place wished to acknowledge the business office employee who had passed away. He referred to her as a “real peach of a gal”.

As spring struggles to make its presence felt the county commissioners joined 8 members of the public in their March 27th meeting. With April quickly approaching the commissioners proclaimed Environmental awareness month to run its duration. April 22nd has been known as Earth day for over 40 years and the opportunity was taken to remind all the populace of Susquehanna County that we should be kind to the planet we all inhabit.

Seminar approvals as usual were a passing topic; this session made light work with only five training opportunities having been requested and combined would cost less than $500. Under open expenses the commissioners approved $934.52 for Jury expenses. General expenses drew over a quarter of a million dollars again over the month of march. Child Youth services required $58,279.60. Employees would be glad to hear that the retirement contribution of nearly $15,000 was made as well as $163,692 to keep the office paychecks on time. Taxes drew over $67,800 from the county funds.

Independent drug and Alcohol testing was awarded a contract to administer testing to the staff at the penitentiary. This would expend a meager $45 for each test issued and would fulfill the compliance portion of the prison contract. The commissioners also took a step to comply with the Americans with Disability Act by granting a contract to Greenman-Pederson to design a new access ramp for the rear of the courthouse. The previous ramp is in disrepair and a total replacement seemed the best option.

Nine members of the Solid Waste Advisory Committee have been reappointed for a 24 month term. Adam Diaz, Bill Bayne, Sam Cosmello, Jennifer Hibbard, Ruth Wilmarth and Commissioner MaryAnn Warren will return to work with Kevin Pascoe, Barbara James, and Marvin Small. The term will expire March 24, 2015. At 9:08 the session was closed and the Salary board convened.

With a quick motion to approve the minutes of the former meeting only one item sat before the board. Normally this would have little if any comment however the motion to hire a non union System database Administrator/Technical Administrative Assistant in the Commissioners’ office would not pass quietly. The original draft called for a salary of $30,000. However Commissioner Giangrieco had concerns that such a rigid fee might be to strict. He requested to amend the motion to a range of $25,000-35,000, to enable the hiring of an individual who not only had the training but also the experience which might offer a comparable amount at their current employment. The board agreed that continuing to hire the best and brightest is better served with some ability to offer a competitive rate. The motion was carried and the board closed at 911.

The Blue Ridge School Board workshop on March 25th started early with a session of the Fundraising Committee devoted to preparations for the upcoming golf tournament scheduled for Saturday, April 27. Board chair Laurie Brown-Bonner encouraged her colleagues to find more sponsors; her goal is at least 36 individuals or businesses to sponsor holes.

The golf tournament and the raffle for a grill that will be awarded at the event are the first efforts of the committee to raise funds to support projects and scholarships at the school during difficult financial times. They wanted some insight into managing whatever money they are able to collect, so they brought Peter Quigg to the table to describe the services of the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains. Mr. Quigg sat patiently through the discussion of the golf tournament, then, at Ms. Brown-Bonner’s invitation, presented an outline of what the Foundation does.

According to Mr. Quigg, the Community Foundation now manages assets of about $7 million in some 140 different funds established by individuals and businesses for a wide variety of charitable purposes. Some 20 of those funds already benefit Blue Ridge and its students, some in the form of scholarships.

The Foundation requires a minimum of $5,000 to create a fund. By Foundation Board policy and IRS guidelines, no more than 5% of a fund’s value may be paid out in any year, ensuring the perpetual solvency of the fund. The Foundation assesses an administrative fee of 1% (2% for scholarships, because of the additional work involved).

According to Mr. Quigg, the Community Foundation does not get involved in fundraising. It provides management and investment services. The Foundation strives for an average return on investment of between 8% and 10% per year. Mr. Quigg said that in 2008 the Foundation lost about 28% on its investments, but the next year gained 29% through their relationship with the Vanguard Group. He assured listeners that the investment policy of the Foundation is “steady as you go.”

Of course everyone wants to know how to tap the natural gas industry that is becoming so prominent in the county. Mr. Quigg said that gas company representatives can get 6 calls for donations before lunch; at lunch there may be 6 more. He said that the gas companies and ancillary businesses seem to prefer to organize their community investments on a regional basis, rather than making individual donations for specific causes. He told the Board to approach first the company with whom the District already has a lease. That would be Southwestern Energy.

On the other hand, Mr. Quigg said repeatedly, “alumni, alumni, alumni.” He described the effort of the Elk Lake Class of ’58 Fund. Originally they wanted to create a scholarship. But he said that small scholarships aren’t of much value these days when college can cost so many thousands per year. He urged them instead to consider donating to unfunded projects at the school.

Since the Blue Ridge Fundraising Committee doesn’t yet have even the first $5,000 to invest, they thanked Mr. Quigg for his time and wondered about the next step.

Once the full Board’s workshop got under way, Superintendent Robert McTiernan said that at next week’s business meeting he would offer a resolution declaring the District’s willingness to act as an “anchor” for the project that would supply natural gas to the campus as well as to the surrounding communities. Although the District heats its buildings primarily with wood chips, Mr. McTiernan said that natural gas would represent a significant savings over oil as a secondary fuel. More important, he said, the action would be a “big benefit to the community” by attracting the supply of natural gas to homes and businesses in the Route 11 corridor.

Harold Empett, chair of the Facilities & Grounds Committee, noted that the Board already knew what needed to be done: a new gym floor and bleachers, and a new track. The only problem was finding the money. The track was laid in about 1994, restriped in 2009, and needs some serious work that Business Manager Loren Small estimated might cost about $200,000.

Mr. Small reminded the Board that the next budget meeting will take place on Monday, April 8 beginning at 6:30pm. Mr. McTiernan reported some grants available for staff development, reading and ESL (English as a Second Language). He said that the ESL program now has under 10 students.

Ms. Brown-Bonner asked the Superintendent and High School Principal Matthew Nebzydoski to offer proposals for better student representation at Board meetings. This year two students shared the duty, but only one ever showed up, and then seldom. She also asked if Mr. Nebzydoski thought it worthwhile to take students along to the next conference of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association, as they did last year. Mr. McTiernan suggested that the cost be considered first, including travel, hotels, meals, etc.

As the Board’s representative at the Intermediate Unit, Mr. Empett reported that Fred Rosetti, former Director of the IU, has been sentenced to the “big house” for fraud and theft. “Restitution” payments are expected to total over $130,000, but decisions have yet to be made about what to do with it. One suggestion might be to return it to the constituent school districts.

And Mr. McTiernan reported that a member of the maintenance crew has resigned. He said that since the man hadn’t worked in some months, the District would try to get along without a replacement.

The Board will gather again a week hence (before you read this) for a business meeting. They are also scheduled for a gathering of area school representatives and their politicians for a “legislative” meeting. Stay tuned.

At the commencement of the March 25th meeting of the Mountain View school board, the new board president Elwood Williams opened the proceedings in the auditorium.

The meeting commenced by recognizing some of the achievements of the high school students. The first group recognized was the cast and crew of Fiddler on the Roof. Mr. Williams related that he had attended the performance, and spoke highly of it. The students and directors were called forward and presented with certificates. The members present were asked to bow prior to returning to their seats. There was also a certificate for the art instructor and Art Club members, but none were present. Peter Maloney was recognized as a representative for Region 4 Chorus.

Boys Varsity basketball was the next team recognized, with Junior Varsity Basketball following. The coaches, managers, and players came forward, with some of the boys’ accomplishments read aloud.

County Commissioner Alan Hall, Representative Sandra Major, and Senator Lisa Baker were introduced. Representative Major opened the presentation, relating the fact that she was a Mountain View alumnus. She said that it was her pleasure to be there with her colleagues to present citations to the boys’ soccer team. She extended her sincere congratulations prior to doing so to those involved in the play. She also congratulated the boys’ basketball team. The boys’ soccer team and coaches, along with Mrs. Price, were then invited down. Representative Major had a citation for the school from the House of Representatives, one for the coach, and one for each player. She read this aloud, noting that the students had captured the 2012 PIAA State Class A boys’ soccer state championship and had finished the season undefeated with 18 wins. She presented the citation to Coach Thomas. It commended the players and supporters.

Senator Baker also offered her warm congratulations to the play cast and the basketball team. She spoke about how the soccer team had demonstrated their skill both in the classroom and on the playing field. She spoke of the dedication, hard work and commitment it took to have an undefeated season, and noted how the lessons learned translated to real life. She also had a citation to give to the team, and for the players.

Commissioner Hall was the last legislator to speak. He again congratulated the cast and crew of the play, and the boys’ basketball team. He congratulated the soccer team, and brought a commendation from the Commissioners for each player.

The boys’ names were called and they came forward to collect their citations and shake the hands of the distinguished guests. Mr. Thomas spoke about some of the achievements of individual players as he called their names. Mr. Thomas said that he had also gotten a letter for the team from Senator Bob Casey.

The recognitions then continued. The boys Junior Varsity team members were called forward, followed by the girls’ basketball team. The Cheerleaders followed. Finally, the Jr. High boys and girls basketball teams were acknowledged.

At this point there was a brief meeting while those who wished to stay to the regular meeting went into the board meeting.

Mr. Williams, after an executive session, wished to make a comment on the behavior at the meetings. He said that the meeting prior had been his first meeting as president, and he was rusty at how the meetings proceeded. He read portions of meeting policy aloud. The purpose of the policy, and the purpose of his saying what he did, he stated, was that he would like to maintain better order in the meetings. He asked those present to please direct all statements to the presiding officer. He said that he hated to use the word president; he didn’t think it was as effective as chairman. He asked those present to please wait to be recognized before speaking. He said that it wasn’t his purpose to limit or stifle conversation, but that he just wanted to keep order.

Ann Corbin of Brookyln Township spoke up, reiterating a portion of the policy he had just read. She wished it noted that she had not addressed any board member directly, but had addressed employees of the board. Mr. Williams responded that the superintendent and other administrators were ex officio board members and requested that comments to them still be directed through him.

Veronica Robbins, the Student Government Liaison was then brought forward for her report. Student Government was holding a Pennies for Patients benefit for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. As the fundraiser was still going on, it was unknown how much would be raised. The National Honor Society had raised $750 for the American Cancer Society through Daffodil Days. The Scholastic Team qualified for nationals, which were to be held in Chicago, Il June 8th - 10th. The Art Club had finished one mural in the cafeteria, and another was in process. The Olweus program had separated by age level. Grades 7-9 were learning about ethical use of technology; grades 10-12 were learning about using technology appropriately and not letting it take over one’s life. Students could sign a no texting and driving pledge; WBNG from Binghamton had covered the story. The Science Club had attended the Science Olympiad, had a great time and learned a lot. Thirteen students from the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science had attended a competition. All placed in the top three and nine students placed first.

The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) had held an Easter egg hunt for the kindergarten class. Three students were attending the State Leadership Conference on April 14th in Hershey.

During the first hearing of visitors, Jane Mack asked the board regarding 2012’s leftover class funds. She asked what the money was from, as it seemed like a large amount of money ($3,918.14). Mr. Doster explained that each graduating class had to designate where their funds, leftover from money raised through fundraising, would go. The vote had to be by a majority vote. That particular class had elected to donate the funds to the Life Skills activity account. The visitor said that two of those motions had been made previously.

Another visitor said that her daughter was an officer of that 2012 class, saying that she was not aware of the amount of funds leftover. She said those students had been told the trip wouldn’t go through if they didn’t have 50 students going. They had wanted to go to Florida, and they could have afforded it. That class’s trip had been cut by a day due to a previous class’s behavior. Every trip was being waylaid. She said that some money should go to the life skills class, but she also felt that some of the money should be put in a separate account for their reunion funds; they had worked hard for it. That was a significant amount of money that the students had not known about. She wanted the money to go where they could use it. She said that it was a shame that they had those funds and were not able to take advantage of it. Mr. Williams said that the board would pull that item, for consideration.

A resolution had been received from PSBA encouraging the people in Harrisburg to do something regarding the PSERS situation. Mrs. Rinehart-Cowann summed up the resolution by stating that their contribution was going up to over 16% meaning that the district’s contribution for the retirement alone was 1.2 million dollars, the next year it was to go up to 1.5 million dollars, then to climb to 1.6 million and 1.7 million. In 17-18 they were close to 1.8 million dollars just for the educators’ retirement. The resolution was to ask the general assembly to look at ways to reduce the contribution.

Mr. Taylor had found two additional companies to provide quotes for the fire and security system. He was going to have the companies come back in and provide a rough draft, so that he could compare them and ensure that it was a pretty comparable quote between the three before bringing it to the board.

The district had exceeded the wood they burnt last year by over 100 tons, Mr. Taylor reported, representing a savings of 93,000 gallons of fuel and a $263,000 net savings.

He had been asked to mention radios. There were portable versions where the gps could be used in the portable, and there was a panic button in these units. Mr. Twining said that he felt that the board needed to discuss those issues further before giving Mr. Taylor further input.

Mr. Williams asked Mr. Twinins about the radios. He said that he had heard that this vendor was the only one who could accurately service that area. Mr. Twining replied that as far as he knew that was correct, but he did not feel there had been sufficient discussion to really deal with the matter. Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan felt that the radio discussion ought to be discussed at a school bus meeting. A visitor responded that it had discussed at a meeting.

Mrs. Shea had been at that meeting, and when asked related that for the most part the contractors desired the radios. Some of them already had them. A visitor then spoke up saying that there were a lot of the contractors who were not in favor of them. Mrs. Shea asked why he was not in favor of them. He said that they did not need another radio. Another visitor said that they already had two forms of communication, and that she personally felt that it was money the district did not have to spend. Mr. Twining opined that he didn’t feel the survey was very clear or decisive regarding whether the drivers wanted it or not. He agreed with Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan; there was a meeting scheduled with the drivers and he felt that it should be brought up again. Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan asked if it was an all or nothing situation, or if some drivers who already had two forms of communication could opt out of it. Mr. Stoddard spoke again about only purchasing radios for those who truly needed them.

Another visitor asked about a large pile of dirt behind the high school, which prompted a climbing temptation for summer sports players. She said that it was top heavy and looked unstable, and worried that it would collapse. Mr. Taylor responded that they were in the process of addressing it, and could plan to continue to do so once it thawed.

A visitor asked about the purpose of the radios. It was responded that it would allow the drivers to contact the school and the administrators to contact the drivers.

Another visitor asked about the pile of dirt, wondering if the dirt could maybe be used to create a road that cars could drive out on for those having difficulty walking, and then return to park in the appropriate locations. She referred to a relative she had who she would like to drive to the field. Mr. Taylor said that he didn’t see why she couldn’t drive the relative she was speaking of to the field, and he didn’t know whose rule that was. However, he said that it was not his decision. Mr. Stoddard confirmed that there was a gravel based road there as was, but that the no driving out rule was not his. Another visitor suggested finding out who could grant the permission to drive on the existing path, rather than changing the road.

There was then some further discussion regarding the Mountain View class of 2012 account. Mr. Williams asked when the class voted, if they had known the amount of funds there. Mr. Doster confirmed that the class had voted by paper ballot where the money had gone. The class had requested a trip to Florida, which the board had declined. Restrictions had also been put on the Virginia trip, and it had been shortened by a day at the direction of the board. The trip was less expensive, explaining the amount of money left over. To do anything else with the money would require another majority vote by the class of 2012, and to have their officers sign off on it. Mr. Twining then asked to confirm that even if the class of 2012 reconvened, the school district could not hold funds for a reunion committee. The class would have to hold those funds themselves. It was also explained that the vote had been required to take place prior to graduation or the money was to revert automatically to the Student Government Association. Mr. Twining explained that in the past such money had remained in the class’s account. So there had been the direction that the classes have a say where the money would go. It was suggested that the fiscal policy be reviewed. A motion was made to table it for further discussion.

Mr. Patchoski related that it was PDE governed what occurred with such money. The funds which were raised by the classes had to be willed back into a different club still in the school. They could not carry it forward. The visitor parent said that she understood this, but she felt it was a shame on the board for not letting the class have their senior trip because they had the money. Mr. Williams said that they could not change the past.

Mrs. Shea had attended the E2 Summit conference, she related during the administrators’ report section of the meeting. There had been a discussion regarding providing funding to school districts to beef up their career readiness resources and to guidance counselors to develop career plans.

The Safire Sis program was being reviewed. The district was looking at possibly replacing Skyward for a more user friendly program which would better meet the district’s needs. This was the last of the programs which would probably be reviewed.

Someone asked how long the district had been using Skyward, and spoke of the money spent to procure it. Mrs. Shea stated that the district had spent a lot of money, but not enough money. To save money the district had not purchased certain modules. Also, she continued that portions they were using were not working for the district. She said that it was not keeping up to date with PDE and called it cumbersome. Mr. Williams commented, seeming to think that a lot could change within four years of having a program.

The district had received recognition that day from PDE for its test administration being satisfactory. A monitor had come in January from PDE during the test administration of the Keystone exams. She commended Mrs. Voigt for her work toward this. She had also sent the congratulations to the staff.

Mrs. Shea had provided the board with the sample letter that the school resource officer would entail. Mr. Williams said that since a lot of this had to deal with security he was uncertain if a public forum was the place for it. There had been discussions with the police. It would be expensive if they decided to proceed. How they did it was still to be seen.

A visitor asked if any of the boroughs had agreed to pay a fee to pay for a school resource officer. She felt that it was a lot of money to ask from each township and borough. She asked if the school had checked into the sheriff’s department. Mr. Williams said that if it came out of the township it came out of his pocket, and if it came out of the school district it came out of his pocket. The visitor confirmed that the school was receiving royalties. The townships may not be. Mr. Williams just said that it was under discussion. Mrs. Rinehart-Cowan asked if the audience was aware of what was being looked at, putting a state police officer in the school. They would be present during the day and potentially at some night events. Mr. Williams said that as he understood it approximately 30% of the schools in Pennsylvania have an SRO. He had not yet formed an opinion personally of their overall value but the district was looking into their options.

Mr. Patchcoski said that, as regarded the student information system discussion, Pennsylvania had some requirements, which the federal government did not.

Mr. Doster spoke of PSSA testing. He wished to recognize the effort that the elementary students, families, and communities had put into this. Mr. Doster wished to comment that after ? of a year in the elementary he had been impressed by the effort put in by the instructors and staff. Mrs. Stine said that she felt Mr. Doster was doing a good job, and she thanked him. Mr. Williams felt it was too rare that they did recognize the effort which the educators put in.

Mrs. Voigt related that the Northeast Pennsylvania High School challenge had been hosted by the district on March 16th. Every time there were parents, students, etc. in the high school building they all commented on how clean and beautiful the school was. The nutrition group put on a nice brunch. She felt it was wonderful to see people from outside the district say what a wonderful place the district must be.

Mrs. Voigt also spoke highly of the instructors’ work in administering the state tests.

A visitor spoke up, saying that she was the secretary of the elementary wrestling booster club. She was there to ask that the wrestling program be reinstated at the high school. She said that they needed to know what needed to be done in order to get the high school wrestling program back.

Mr. Williams asked if they had a prospective coach. The woman responded that they had a lot of people willing to help out. Mr. Dosster was asked for more details. The direction at the time, he said, was to look at the numbers or the prospective numbers. The board would have to make the motion to bring back the program, and then the district would have to make application to the PIAA and the Lackawanna League to reinstate the program and be accepted, then a coach’s salary would have to be decided upon and the matts would likely have to be replaced. He said that he believed they had worked very hard to bring the numbers up, and that the numbers justified the program. In his opinion it was something which would benefit the students and allow for another winter sport option.

Mrs. Shea asked why the program was stopped. Mr. Doster responded that when they hit the level of crisis at the board level, the wrestling team had finished the district tournament that year with only three varsity students and two at the junior high level. The numbers had dwindled. The decision had been made to cut the program.

The visitor explained that between the booster club and some private donors they were looking at maybe being able to help give funds to procure the mats. They needed a high school level for their program, as there was nowhere for children to go after leaving the elementary level.

Mr. Stoddard asked if there had been any connection with Kenny Decker and the program he wanted to start the previous year. It was responded that he had wanted to start a junior high, but they now had a broader range because they had students who were getting older.

Mr. Doster said that in the grand scheme of sports it was a relatively inexpensive program to operate, that the community had a rich history in the sport and that the board was in a position where they could reinstate it without it impacting the district in a negative manner financially.

Mr. Twining asked about the practice room. Mr. Doster said that the last year of the program a room had been designed in the basement for the students to practice. It was a padded room. A former wrestler said that there had been a club for a couple of years after the team was gone. There was a decent number that came weekly, but it was hard to keep the kids without recognition. He believed that if they had a true program they would have enough numbers, the majority of a full team, and he felt it would grow. He believed there were enough kids. If need be some of those currently working with the boosters could donate their time, he stated.

Mr. Stoddard asked if they would prefer a junior high or a high school program if they had to make a choice. It was responded that it was a fifty-fifty, as there were several students now in tenth grade and several had been graduated to 7th grade. A visitor said that to maintain a varsity program they had to have a junior varsity program. Another visitor said that as with any sport it was a stepping stone. They built on their skills and abilities. It wouldn’t work to have an elementary program, then skip three grades and start it over again.

Ivy Simons asked if the PSERS resolution was to be posted online. Mr. Williams thought it would be a good idea, and Mrs. Shea said that she could post it online. M. Sinons asked if they still received half of the contribution back as a subsidy. Thus the 1.2 million dollars could be misleading.

She also asked what the SGA account was, where the money went and how it was used. Mr. Doster explained that those funds were expended by the SGA for events throughout the building. This included spirit games and other student funded activities.

The booster secretary asked how to follow up on the wrestling issue. Mr. Doster felt that the next step might be for the elementary principal to contact the Lackawanna League to assess the next steps. Mrs. Shea was to get back to her, and Mr. Presley was to look into it.

Theft: Price Gregory International of Houston, Tx reported that on March 23rd between 8:30 am and 2 pm a Miller Pipe Pro XMT 304 welder with serial # LJ006072 was stolen from a storage yard on Sr 492 in Jackson Township.

Criminal Mischief: An unknown person damaged the rear door of a residence on Sr 367 in Auburn, causing approximately $30 in damage.

Commercial Vehicle Crash: On March 26th at 5:13 pm Avery Yarn of North Syracuse, Ny was stopped at the stop sign located at the intersection of Sr 8007 and Sr 848 in New Milford, Twp. At that time Laura Brooks of New Milford was traveling east on Sr 848. Impact occurred as Yarn attempted to make a left turn after being stopped, and was struck by Brooks’ vehicle in its travel lane. After impact both units traveled to an area of safety. Yarn’s Freightliner had minor front passenger side bumper damage. Brooks’ Volvo had considerable passenger side damage on the vehicle. A passenger from Brooks’ vehicle was taken to Montrose Hospital for further medical evaluation. No one else involved in the crash sustained injury; all involved were utilizing seat belts (including the injured passenger). Yarn was cited at District Court 34-3-02.

Criminal Mischief: PSP is investigating an incident in which the front tires on a vehicle belonging to a Kingsley man were cut between the 25th and 26th of March. The incident occurred along Sr 11 in Harford Township.

Criminal Mischief: On March 25th at 5:30 am a rock was thrown at a 2013 Peterbilt truck belonging to Ace Robbins Inc. of Tunkhannock, causing a chip in the windshield. The incident occurred on Three Lakes Rd. in New Milford Township.

Possession with Intent to Deliver, Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia: On March 24th at approximately 4:35 pm a trooper observed a traffic violation on Interstate 81 northbound in Great Bend township, and initiated a traffic stop on a blue Ford Taurus bearing a Ny registration, for following too closely. The vehicle was determined to be a Hertz rental vehicle. Indicators of criminal activity were present during the traffic stop. Consent was obtained. A search of the vehicle revealed a duffel bag in the trunk that contained ten large, zip type food storage bags that each contained approximately one pound of marijuana. The right front passenger of the vehicle, the accused, a Lawrence Jocelyn of Uniondale, Ny, claimed sole responsibility and ownership of the marijuana. The accused was processed and arraigned before Magisterial District Court Judge, Jodie Cordner. Bail was set at $100,000. The accused was committed to the Susquehanna County Correctional Facility. A preliminary hearing was slated for April 1, 2013 at District Court 34-3-02.

Commercial Vehicle Crash: On March 23rd at 12:30 am Jeremy Charles of Clarion, Pa was traveling west on State Route 706 in Bridgewater Township. As the Peterbilt 379 was traveling west through a moderate curve, it lost control on the dry roadway surface, causing it to roll on its drivers’ side. The impact caused major drivers’ side damage to the truck at maximum engagement. Charles was restrained in the drivers’ seat by a safety belt and received no injuries. After impact the truck came to a rest partially off the roadway, the front facing northwest.

Crash: On March 22nd at 6:34 pm Roman Drab of Friendsville, Pa was traveling in a northern direction on North road in Forest Lake township. Upon negotiating a curve in the roadway, the Ford Mustang Shelby lost control and traveled off the west shoulder of the highway. It impacted a tree just behind the driver-side door. It then impacted a tree with the front end, which caused it to become airborne and rotate counter clock-wise. It then impacted a tree causing intrusion just behind the passenger door, reaching a rest wrapped around a tree facing a southerly direction. Drab sustained major injury.

Hit and Run: On March 20th at 7:50 pm Lisa Visavati of Nicholson was traveling south on Sr 11 in Lathrop township when she failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway. The vehicle traveled off the east shoulder of the highway, crossed a ditch and struck a concrete post. It then came to a rest facing a southern direction. Visavati fled the scene.

Crash: On March 21st at 11:12 am Alysia Arbruster of Scranton was traveling west on Sr 0374 at the same time as Robert Genevich of Clifford was traveling east. For unknown reasons Arbruster lost control while negotiating a curve. The vehicle went off the road, struck a guiderail, re-entered the roadway, crossed into the eastbound lane, and struck Genevich’s vehicle. Arbruster sustained injury of unknown severity; she was utilizing a seat belt. Genevich was not injured; he was utilizing a seat belt.

Hit and Run: On March 16th at 8 pm Bridget Stone of Tunkhannock, Pa was traveling east on Sr 3004 in Auburn Township when she lost control, went off the edge of the road, and rolled over. Both injury and use of safety equipment were listed as unknown.

Simple Assault: On March 20th Patrick Hannon of Clifford is accused of striking an unnamed woman in the mouth during an argument. The victim required medical attention. Hannon was arrested and charged with Simple Assault and Harassment.

Crash: On March 18th at 5:45 am Dennis Abbot tof Susquehanna was traveling in a westerly direction on Sr 171 in Great Bend Township at the same time as Arthur Trynoski was traveling east. While negotiating the curve, Abbott crossed into the oncoming lane and struck Trynoski. Abbott then proceeded to travel in a westerly direction, leaving the right side of the roadway. The vehicle then proceeded to come back onto the roadway and continued approximately ¼ of a mile west, striking the guide rail in the right side of the roadway. It then continued approximately another 2/10th of a mile, crossing the oncoming lane and going through a parking lot, striking signs and a utility pole. Finally, it came to a rest after hitting the embankment for the exit ramp facing a westerly direction. Abbott sustained major injury; seat belt use was listed as none used/not applicable. Trynoski sustained moderate injury; he was utilizing a seat belt. Abbott was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital. Trynoski was transported to Barnes-Kasson Hospital. Police were assisted at the scene by the Great Bend- Hallstead Volunteer Fire Company and PennDot.

Retail Theft: On March 20th at 11 pm, Liberty Truck Plaza of Harford reported, a purple tractor with a semi-trailer drove off without paying for $596.77 worth of diesel fuel.

Hit and Run: On March 18th at 12:17 pm Thomas McMillen of Johnstown, Pa was parked in the parking lot of the Liberty Truck Plaza in Harford Township. An unnamed driver was attempting to drive around the right side of the truck when the left side of the trailer of the moving vehicle collided with the right rear corner of the trailer of the parked truck. The offending vehicle then fled the scene traveling north on Sr 0081.

Crash: On March 19th at 12:47 am Michael Spencer of Montrose was traveling south on Sr 29 in Liberty Township. At the time the roadway was slushy with a snow weather event occurring. Spencer’s vehicle, while traveling south on Sr 29, traveled west out of the southbound lane and exited the roadway, impacting an embankment. The vehicle overturned and came to a rest upon its roof off the roadway. It suffered front end, drivers’ and passenger’s side, and roof damage, requiring towing from the scene. Spencer was utilizing a seat belt; he sustained no injury.

Theft: The victim, Rado Enterprises of Bloomsburg, was a sub-contractor constructing the new hospital. The victim reported that during the overnight hours of March 14th-15th approximately 15 pieces of copper pipe tubing were stolen. There were approximately 10 lengths of ¾”, 2 lengths of 1 ¼”, and 2 lengths of 1 ½” pipe removed. Anyone with knowledge of this crime may contact the police.

Crash: On March 13th at 5:19 pm Kevin Donahue of Springville was traveling in a north-eastern direction on Sr 3001 in Auburn when he lost control of his vehicle for unknown reasons and traveled off the highway to the left shoulder. The Ram 3500 dual struck a tree approximately eight feet west of the edge of the roadway. Donahue sustained major injury; safety equipment was listed as unknown.

Lost and Found: On March 10th at 1:10 pm a resident living on Post Pond road in Bridgewater Township discovered property along the roadway that appeared to have fallen off a vehicle. Property of value consisted of a lap top computer and computer bag. Other property was damaged and disposed of accordingly. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Criminal Mischief: On March 17th between 3 and 7:30 pm an incident occurred in which the telephone box belonging to a Susquehanna Depot woman was opened and the connection tampered with.

Theft: Between the 15th and 16th of March, between the hours of 11 pm and 2 am, the wallet belonging to a Susquehanna borough man was stolen from his residence. The investigation was continuing as of the time of report.

Burglary/theft: Sometime between January 10th and March 16th, a male’s black onyx gold ring with 4 diamonds and a gold chain style necklace were taken from within a Great Bend township residence without the owners’ authorization. The investigation was ongoing as of the time of report.

Crash: On March 10th at 10:20 pm Danielle Callas of Meshoppen was traveling south on Sr 4015 in Rush Township when, while traveling too fast for conditions, she lost control of her vehicle, while attempting to navigate a left curve in the roadway. The vehicle crossed over the oncoming lane of travel and left the roadway. It then went into a ditch and flipped onto its roof. It was facing south alongside the northbound travel lanes, on its roof, upon the trooper’s arrival. Both Callas and a passenger sustained minor injury; both were utilizing seat belts.

Hit and Run: On March 17th at 2 am an unknown driver was traveling east bound on Hill Top road at its intersection with Lake View Drive (Lake Walter) in Springville Township. The vehicle failed to negotiate a curve, crossing over Lake View Drive and entering a yard. It then struck a fence and wooden curb, and damaged a lawn. The driver then fled the scene. The vehicle is described as a rear wheel truck, possibly a Chevrolet/GMC and it may have front end damage/ be missing a driving light and lower bumper pieces. Anyone with information is asked to call the state police.

Burglary: On March 15th between 2 and 5 pm a Franklin township residence was entered, and perpetrator(s) went into an unfinished cinderblock room, removing DVDs from a shelf behind the door. Perpetrator(s) then proceeded to the living room that had been converted into a bedroom and removed a ring from a shelf in the corner after climbing over various household items. The perpetrator(s) then proceeded to the garage. The garage had the door blocked off from the inside and contained an area rug, bed, and couch. A wallet was removed from a table, an x-box from the television, and more DVDs and x-box games from under the bed.

Burglary: Perpetrator(s) gained entry to a residence on Sr 2001 by means of forcing the back entry door. The burglar(s) removed two small jewelry boxes from the first floor bedroom. The perpetrator(s) also removed five ladies wristwatches from the first floor bathroom drawer. The burglar(s) rummaged through other rooms of the residence opening drawers. The perpetrator(s) then left the residence and fled in an unknown direction.

Burglary: On March 7th a residence on Sr 2003 was entered by unknown means, into the kitchen. A laptop was removed from the kitchen.

Retail Theft: on March 13th at 8:45 pm a white male, 6’2” tall, in his late twenties, wearing a denim jacket and tan baseball cap, arrived at Label Shopper in the Montrose plaza. The thief took a pair of American Eagle jeans, six American Eagle t-shirts, and ran out the front door. He fled in a white pick-up truck and went toward New Milford on State Route 706.

Retail Theft: An incident occurred on March 6th between the hours of 1:20 and 1:25 pm in which a white male described as being approximately 25-30 years old with a heavy build, brown hair, and blue eyes, took possession of approximately $400 worth of meats and miscellaneous groceries from Rob’s Market without paying for them. If you have information regarding any of these incidents please contact PSP Gibson at (570) 354-3154.