Near the start of the Montrose School Board work session, held on November 10, Athletic Director Joe Gilhool broached the subject of varsity jackets. Mr. Gilhool explained that the Varsity Club funds were decreasing. The district charged $10 a jacket to the student, but the jackets were now over $200 a piece. While they did raise money for the jackets through the Varsity Club concession stand, they made somewhere over $3,000 and the board had given them money as well, but they had spent over $7,000. It was also confirmed that the basketball concession contributed to the fund. Mr. Gilhool showed a different jacket that cost about $100 less, which was a different design than the traditional Letterman jacket. He said it would also be less conspicuous at college. The kids he'd asked had opined that they preferred the standard design, but he had pushed them toward the cheaper option - he said he knows they wear them a few months and then put it in the closet often times. He talked about maybe having a transition year where the standard jacket could still be available but cost $100, and the other jacket could still cost $10. He said he would much rather go to a more standard jacket, as he felt it could be worth more. Mr. Wilcox asked if there was any way to send a packet to the parents explaining the cost. Ms. Smith said she would just switch rather than transitioning; otherwise it could bring up issues where one kid was considered cheap if he didn't pay for the more expensive coat. Mr. Gilhool also said that he had about $2,000 worth of jackets from the past, which hadn't been picked up. It was asked if perhaps these could be sold at a discount, with a panel put over the personalized details.

Ms. Riker's report was reviewed in her absence. It was related that the district had only one ESL student left, as the other 2 had moved out of the district.

Mr. Owens spoke of the approach of winter Keystone exams for kids who hadn't previously passed the Algebra One, Biology, or Literature tests. He said that the 10th graders needed to pass the Keystones to graduate. Some students were allowed to take a modified exam. He also related to those present that a free version of Microsoft Professional Office Suite was made available to kids in institutions contracting with the company with licensing volume. Under the licensing arrangement kids and their families could access the software on up to five devices. In the near future the educators were expected to have access to this as well.

Mr. Owens then gave an update on the stage repairs. Syracuse Stage had given a report after auditing the districts stage with one mandatory recommendation (clear the clutter from the exit/entrance of the stage), and other urgent recommendations. The school had decided to address these mandatory and urgent recommendations. One or two repairs were deemed not feasible or necessary over the short term, but they were issues which were deemed to not be safety concerns after certain measures were taken.

Mr. Boccella publicly announced during his report that he had accepted a central office administrative position at Valley View, and was resigning his position as secondary principal. He said that he loved the community of Montrose, and thanked those present for eight years. He said he truly believed Montrose was a great place, and he would miss everybody. He aspired to be a superintendent one-day and would be serving as that district's Director of Curriculum. The board clapped for him.

An executive session for personnel matters was called then, and the public adjourned to the library while the board met. The actual board meeting began at 9:01 pm, after this session and after a review of the agenda items.

The motion was made, per advice from the auditor, to rescind motion B. 9. from the October 13 board meeting regarding the depositing of gas royalties in the 22 Capital Fund. When the reasoning behind this was questioned by a reporter it was explained that the gas royalty money was considered local revenue and could not then go directly into the 22 Capital Fund. The next motion put it into the General Fund in subsequent years it would be transferred by inter-fund transfer into the Capital Improvements Fund.

A motion was made under Transportation to increase activity run mileage reimbursement rate from $2.63 to $2.67 in accordance with the state cost index, retroactive to October 1, 2014. A visitor asked if, because of turnover in administration, it might be a good idea to put the annual increase in activity runs in writing, in case a new person didn't know about it. After a brief discussion it was stated that this was a good point.

The board accepted with regret the resignation of Michael Boccella as Principal of the Junior- Senior High School effective December 23rd. This item was pulled from the consent agenda, and the motion included a waiver of repayment of course tuition.

A densely packed agenda kept Susquehanna Depot Boro Council engaged for their Wednesday, November 12 meeting at the Boro Building. Vice-President Debbie Zayas called the meeting to order promptly at 7 p.m. Present for the meeting were council members Sue Crawford, John Hendrickson, Barbara Larsen, Kaylin Lindquist, and Roy Williams, along with Mayor Nancy Hurley and Secretary/Treasurer Margaret Biegert. President Joe Varsik was absent.

Highlights of the meeting were many. Notable were two parties requesting time on the agenda. The first party consisted of Laura Nichols, Carol Carpenter, and Tom Kurosky speaking on behalf of the Susquehanna County Historical Society & Free Library Association. The trio has been conducting an outreach effort to various municipalities throughout the county during this year. Perceptive readers of this paper will recall they addressed Oakland Boro Council earlier this year.

Carol Carpenter recognized Susquehanna Depot’s Branch Library as the nicest in the whole system, and she explained many of the services available, including books-by-mail for those who are unable to physically access the library. Branch Head Librarian Laura Nichols recounted the history of Susquehanna Depot’s library since 1974 and its move into the new boro building in 2002. She went on to explain the wide variety of services available, including the two services for which there is a small charge, fax and copying services. Because of the library’s inter-library loan system the library is able to obtain virtually any book in the Commonwealth for no charge to library patrons. Because of a grant from the Constitution Pipeline the library has new computers available for public use, and staff who can assist patrons who are high-tech challenged.

Tom Kurosky, President of the Board of Trustees, provided detailed hand-outs to council members and Mayor Hurley. Using them as tools he explained the ongoing budget shortfall, that it would take $86,070 to return the county library system’s level of service to that which it had prior to the 2009 budget cuts imposed by state government. Mr. Kurosky commended boro residents for their high level of support and library usage. He noted that 1255 Susquehanna Depot residents hold library cards. Bottom line for residents, please support your library if you value their services. The library offers free computer classes, children’s programs, summer reading programs, a variety of online databases, and access to local/regional newspapers. Mayor Hurley commended the three for their hard work and their presentation before council.

The second party requesting time on the agenda was Mike Fabrizi, representing Oakland Township. Mr. Fabrizi explained that Oakland Township wished to propose to Susquehanna Depot a mutual aid or exchange of services agreement, the key feature of which would be the Township’s ability to count on Susquehanna for plowing/winter road services on its two miles of paved roads which are located on disparate edges of Susquehanna. Mr. Fabrizi noted that Oakland Township has small bits of paved roadway on Columbus Avenue, Jackson Avenue, Turnpike Street, and several other places. Councilman Williams, speaking for Susquehanna, voiced immediate interest and stated that the borough could draw up a written agreement to take care of the township’s need in this area. Mr. Williams’ Good Neighbor Policy found unanimous nods of approval on Susquehanna’s side and the Borough will move to formalize their commitment to the Township.

Highest on Council’s agenda for the evening was the proposed budget for 2015. Council took some time to silently study the proposed budget which balances revenues and expenses at $422,461. They noted that Susquehanna Depot, of almost comparable size to Montrose Boro and Forest City, takes in and spends less than half of what those municipalities do. With Secretary/Treasurer Biegert providing a brief overview of the budget’s details and why some changes had been made, council members took a few minutes to silently study the numbers. In short order council passed two motions: (1) to adopt the proposed budget, and (2) to advertise the proposed budget. The vote on both motions was unanimous in approval. Final action on the budget will be taken at December’s meeting. Until then interested parties, residents and taxpayers, can review the proposed budget at the boro office during regular hours.

Mayor Hurley provided the Police Report for the month of October. It showed a wide range of incidents to which police responded. Here’s a sampling from the 45 recorded incidents: traffic stop (11), other suspected motor vehicle violations, including accident investigations (6), criminal mischief (3), violent crime (2), burglary (2), burglary alarm (2), and larceny/theft (2). Also recorded was one incident in each of the following categories: unconscious/fainting, domestic dispute, fraud, 911 hang-up call, harassment, med call, welfare check, structure fire alarm, and mental problems.

Mayor Hurley followed up with her Mayor’s Report. She highlighted “A Walk Back in Time,” a photographic exhibition to be held at the United Methodist Church on Friday, December 19 at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served and the public is warmly welcomed. Mrs. Hurley explained that Jon “Chuck” Burdick will be exhibiting many photos of Susquehanna, Oakland, and Lanesboro as the public is invited to step back in time to fond memories of the way things used to be. The photos, available for purchase, are matted and ready to frame. The event, co-sponsored by the Susquehanna Community Awareness Committee and the United Methodist Church, is already prepared with a “snow-date” of Friday, January 23, 2015 should inclement weather strike.

Emergency Management Coordinator John Hendrickson provided his monthly report to council. It read, in part, “. . . I have received further training from the county by the national weather service at our quarterly session. As you may know I was assigned to check on first aid kits for the police and DPW. In doing so it was found that much of this equipment is in need of replacement mostly due to its age. Some of the equipment (gloves, etc., consumables) are not restocked and should be. New items such as biohazard clean-up kits, etc., are proposed. I await council’s decision.” Council thanked him for his diligent work and accepted his report, but council took no immediate action on his recommendations for procurement.

Councilman Williams took the bull by the horns as he covered reporting on DPW and Codes. He provided an overview of the Main Street Project, including details of the many underground problems recently discovered. The borough has already replaced 500 feet of new drainage pipe where needed. He noted that Phase I would be ending when PAWC reached Center Lane; Phase II will begin on Monday, November 17. Mr. Williams reminded all that rock salt usage on sidewalks is illegal in the borough; calcium chloride should be used instead. The borough, he noted, had just received its most recent shipment of road salt on Tuesday, the 11th. Also he reiterated that the borough’s snow ordinance would be going into effect imminently. Finally, he discussed the status of the borough’s tree trimming program. It has NOT been done on downtown Main Street. Contractors thought to be interested in the job have never returned phone calls to the borough.

Finally, in all matters Christmas, the annual tree-lighting is scheduled for Friday, December 5, at 7 p.m. near the War Memorial Wall. Santa will be arriving Saturday morning for breakfast with the children at the borough Fire Station. Borough Secretary Biegert is printing and distributing flyers for the Annual Christmas Decorating Contest. The theme for this year’s contest, sponsored by the borough and SCDA, is “Working with Good Neighbors.” And lastly, the borough government is sponsoring their Christmas Party with neighboring municipal governments, at the boro building on Friday, December 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The party’s purpose is to foster closer personal relationships and understanding with decision-makers in municipalities proximate to Susquehanna Depot.

At 7:55 p.m. borough council went into Executive Session to discuss two items: a legal/zoning issue at 165 Depot Street, and a personnel issue. No official action, according to Secretary Biegert, was taken on either issue when council returned to regular order for adjournment. Council’s December monthly meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 10th at 7 p.m.

As a side-note, Vice-President Debbie Zayas announced at meeting’s start President Joe Varsik is “out for indefinite period.” Those readers who are of a mind may wish to keep him in their prayers for his restoration to health and return to duty.

For the first time in its long history, Harford Township is proposing a budget that expects total spending to reach the one million dollar mark -- $1,047,250, to be exact.  At their November meeting on the 11th the Township Supervisors voted to give taxpayers a month to examine what they have wrought.  They will vote to formally adopt the new budget for 2015 at their December meeting, a month hence.

The new budget does not require a property tax rate increase (the current rate is 4.69 mills, plus 1 mill for the fire company); sewer fees will increase by $2 per quarter beginning in March 2015.  The township also collects a $5 “per capita” tax on all residents over the age of 18, and it shares an earned income tax of 1% with the Mountain View School District.  The largest infusion of additional revenue comes, of course, from the Act 13 “impact fee” imposed by the state on shale gas exploration and extraction. The new budget projects another impact fee payment of $350,000.

The new spending plan is about 43% higher than called for in the budget for 2014.  However, the township spent considerably more than budgeted in the year just ending, almost all of the additional money coming from accumulated impact fee revenue.  The Supervisors actually added a 4th section to the budget for 2015 specifically to account for spending from impact fee revenue.  One large chunk of the spending increase for 2015 will fund 2 or 3 large road renovation projects which will be reimbursable in part from state “dirt & gravel grant” funds.  The Township will also donate $15,000 to the Harford Lenox Baseball Association for the development of a new softball field on the township property behind the Harford Village Apartments.

The Supervisors worked out the new budget in a pair of workshops in October devoted to the plan.

The November meeting was relatively brief for Harford, barely more than a half hour.  In addition to the budget, the Supervisors accepted the request of Roadmaster Jim Phelps to purchase an additional 50 tons of DSA (“driving surface aggregate”), a relatively new material developed at Penn State.  The crew will use it to fill some potholes as an experiment to see if the more expensive DSA holds up much better for the purpose than just stone.  Although the annual roadwork is now considered complete and the equipment is being prepared for winter operations, Mr. Phelps will be using the crew as necessary to maintain the roads as weather and conditions permit.

The Supervisors also accepted the Roadmaster’s request to replace the furnace in the garage.  Mr. Phelps said the firebox in the 21-year-old furnace was completely burned out.  The cost is expected to be about $3,500.  There was some discussion of replacing the oil-fired furnace with a propane unit to match the other propane unit used for supplemental heat in the garage.  However, the Supervisors decided that a replacement oil furnace would work better to thaw frozen materials in the trucks using the ducting already in place.

Asked for the status of the legal tangle on Tyler Lake Road, Supervisor Doug Phelps replied that the matter was in the hands of the lawyers.  He did, however, read from a document that released Harford Township from further action related to injuries associated with some bulls running rampant at the Harford Fair 2 years ago.  The document noted that new evidence could bring the Township back into the matter, but that seems somewhat unlikely.

The 2015 budget will be formally adopted at the next meeting of the Harford Township Supervisors – the last of the year – scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, 2014, beginning at 7:00pm at the Township office on Route 547.

Veterans Day, November 11th is the day for honoring our American heroes, past and present, which the Susquehanna American Legion Post 86 did during their annual Veterans Day Ceremony. The ceremony was held in the plaza on Erie Ave. in Susquehanna at 11:00 am in front of the Veterans Memorial Wall. Speakers at the ceremony included someone from each of the organizations within the American Legion Post 86. Key speakers were: Eugene Stewart; MC, Ron Whitehead; the Chaplin, Linda Norris; President of the Women’s Auxiliary, Richard Norris; SAL Commander, Terry Rockwell; President of the American Legion Riders, Joe Kapcsandi; Trustee and Board Members. Also joining the speakers were the past Chaplin Stan Lindow, the Legion Commander Richard Briton and the Legion’s Financial Officer Scott Darling.

Pictured (l-r) are: Scott Darling, Linda Norris, Joe Kapcsandi, Ron Whitehead, Eugene Stewart, Richard Norris, Richard Briton, Terry Rockwell, and Stan Lindow.

The ceremony lasted just under a half hour, at which time Veterans and spectators returned to Post 86 on Main Street in Susquehanna for a lunch, which Linda Norris and Loretta Clowes, of the Woman’s Auxiliary prepared for the Veterans, families and guests. Serving at the luncheon was Auxiliary/Legion Riders member Liane Fabrizi with her son, Jack.

SAL Commander Richard Norris commented; “the American Legion Riders with the SAL (Sons of American Legion) sent 220 invitations to veterans in our area for this event”. Out of the 220 invited approximately 80 attended. A few Veterans in attendance and seated together for the luncheon were Eugene Testa Sr. who served in the Korean War and told this reporter that he “joined the American Legion Post 86 in 1952 and has been a member ever since”. Joe Canini, who also served in the Korean War said he “joined Post 86 in 1954”, and Robert VanFleet who served our country in WWII told me he “has been a member of post 86 since 2010”.  All Veterans who were in attendance were enjoying the company of fellow Veterans, as well as the magnificent food the Legion Women’s Auxiliary prepared in their honor.

Also present to show their support at the ceremony was Boy Scout Troup 81, led by Scout Master Mike Gebhard. The Scouts in attendance were Aaron Herbert, Preston Perry, Zachary Consla, and Devyn Benson. All four boys and their Scout Master stood at attention, holding their Troup flag along with the American flag throughout the ceremony. In addition to the Boy Scouts, several other members of the American Legion Riders, Auxiliary and SAL came out to show their appreciation for the heroes who have served our country.

In addition to this annual Veterans Day celebration the American Legion Post 86, throughout the year hosts a number of events to honor our veterans including a Veterans Dinner twice a year, in which veterans from Gino Merli Center are bussed in to attend. Also every year, on Memorial Day Legion Post 86 hosts a luncheon for veterans and their guests following the Susquehanna Memorial Day parade. Other organizations within the Legion also show their support by hosting events such as the Fallen Heroes Run, which is put on by the American Legion Riders every August. The American Legion Woman’s Auxiliary also hosts a breakfast the first Sunday of every month which is open to the public at a cost. If anyone is interested in more information about these events, or wants information about upcoming events please feel free to call the American Legion Post 86 at 570-853-3542.

The focus of Lanesboro’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 11 was the preparation of next year’s boro budget. The bottom line for residents is that taxes (and sewer fees) are unchanged and the budget is balanced at the same level as 2014’s budget. Expenses are trimmed in a few areas; increases are shifted to priorities; a rainy day fund may blossom for the inevitable day something untoward occurs. More about the budget later.

Before Council focused an hour of their time on the 2015 budget, routine monthly matters were considered and decided. Present for the Veteran’s Day meeting were President Dan Boughton, council members Dale Rockwell, Ed Arzouian, Regina Dilello, Dan Glidden, and Tom Nitterour, as well as Mayor Chris Maby and Police Chief Jim Smith. Councilman Jason Fissel and Secretary/Treasurer Gail Hanrahan were absent. President Boughton called for a moment of silence in honor of active-duty military and veterans after the Pledge, before starting work.

Council moved swiftly to approve meeting minutes from October 14. Then Council considered correspondence, the chief item being Susquehanna Depot’s invitation to Lanesboro government (among others) for a Christmas party at Susquehanna on Friday, December 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Who will attend for Lanesboro, and how many, was not immediately decided.

No Lanesboro residents requested time on the agenda, and once public input was completed Police Chief Smith took center stage to present the Police Report. Before giving the report itself, Chief Smith delivered to council the resignation of Officer Joshua Hale. Council voted unanimously to accept Officer Hale’s resignation (due to non-availability to work). Council stressed that Officer Hale’s work had always been satisfactory and his leaving was on good terms.

Chief Smith’s Police Report showed the following for the month of October. There were 27 traffic stops, resulting in issuance of 9 citations and 18 warnings for the following causes: Speeding Violations (19), Inspection Violations (2), Equipment Violations (4), Failure to use turn signal (1), and Failure to dim head lamps (1). In discussion of the number of traffic stops in Lanesboro, Mayor Maby mentioned that PennDot tracks the number of vehicles that transit Main Street in Lanesboro. On a daily basis it comes to approximately 6,000 vehicles. When one considers that number, Mayor Maby observed, the number of traffic stops occurring in Lanesboro is extremely small.

In non-traffic police actions, Lanesboro PD handled one case of public intoxication (no charges), theft (open case), a domestic case (closed), an assist with an arrest warrant (to the sheriff’s office, with arrest made), and a case of money found in roadway (and money restored to its owner). Total LPD hours for October came to 130, with 12.5 hours billed to Thompson Boro, and an additional 148 hours spent on school campus patrol.

Moving on the Streets Report, the chief business was council approval of billing (by Harmony Township) for paving and patching work already completed. Harmony’s work on Lanesboro’s streets came to $15,741. Other street work remains to be completed before winter’s worst arrives. Next month’s meeting is likely to reveal all of the projects finally completed for the year. Other streets business was brought up later by President Boughton later in the meeting, namely, the street lights which are still dark, despite the work Penelec was doing on October 14, the very night of the last council meeting. President Boughton, as well as other council members expressed “aha” moments as they brainstormed the various lights they had observed as still darkened. Mr. Boughton asserted he would take a census of the lights still requiring repair so as to prompt Penelec to take corrective action.

The boro’s need for a sidewalk snow removal technician was filled with council’s unanimous approval to hire Nicholas DeGraw at the rate of $10 per hour, on a part-time, seasonal, on-call basis whenever snowfall dictates the need for his services. Some council and the Mayor indicated that they were heartily impressed by Mr. DeGraw.

In Parks & Recreation the highlights centered on two matters. President Boughton volunteered to handle both. The first was to go to Luciana Park and pull taut the cables that have loosened over time. The second was to touch base concerning the picnic tables that had been offered to the borough by the current owners of the Rotocast property. Were they ever picked up? Were they still available? No one knew for sure. Mr. Boughton will investigate.

For the Sewer Department Report, Mayor Maby reported, “No new news!” That shifted the meeting over to Community Center news. Miss Amanda Cook reported there had been two recent rentals. A problem noted is that the Center might have too few tables and chairs, currently 11 and 60, respectively. Mayor Maby promised to investigate the legal capacity for the building, to post the building with that number, and to look into perhaps obtaining chairs sufficient to match the building’s limit. Anecdotal evidence suggests a number of rentals have not been contracted simply because potential renters believed the center had too little seating for their event’s need.

Miss Cook again suggested a new picture of Borough Council for Lanesboro’s website. Council will try again for December when, hopefully, there will be perfect attendance.

Other business discussed included the borough’s circa 1971 Zoning Ordinance and the Municipal Liens Ordinance. The boro Solicitor, Myron DeWitt, is studying the first to remove obsolete portions; council members have the second for review and possible initial action next month.

At this point Council took five for Executive Session. Upon return to regular order President Boughton announced that no official action would be taken at this time; the boro Solicitor will be consulted on a police matter.

With the decks cleared, council trained their sights on the boro’s 2015 budget proposal. With Mayor Maby shepherding council through a line-by-line review of the budget, council discussed the pros and cons of each figure through the lens of this year’s experience. Here are several of the significant changes from the current budget. Council hopes to build a $2,000 fund for kitchen renovations in the Community Center. The small surplus in Sewer Income is projected to grow into a somewhat larger amount to become a true rainy day fund for sewer repairs. Salaries are proposed to increase modestly for police and the borough secretary. Delinquent tax collections have risen this year and are expected to be higher than previously expected for next year.

The net result is a wash. The boro expects to be able to do all it is doing now with the same amount next year. Taxes won’t go up and sewer rates will not change under this proposed budget. In a vote just prior to adjournment council voted unanimously to accept the proposed budget and to approve the budget for advertising and comment, with final action to be taken in December. That meeting will be on the second Tuesday (December 9) at Lanesboro Community Center. Interested parties may review the proposed line-by-line budget during regular business hours at the boro office.

Oakland Boro Council hit the accelerator and sped through its November monthly meeting in less than half the time it normally takes. The key reason for the truncated gathering was removal of 2015 budget planning and discussion due to the absence of a key member, President Brian Rhone. With the President absent due to illness council declined to move forward with budgetary issues. What remained for council’s immediate attention was a relatively sparse agenda.

Presiding over the Thursday, November 13 meeting was Vice-President Gary Boughton. Councilmen Jack Agler, Eric Page, Dave Trevarthan, Nelson Towner, and Doug Arthur were present, along with Mayor Ron Beavan and Secretary/Treasurer Flo Brush.

Council’s Call to Order, Pledge, Moment of Silence, approval of minutes, acceptance of Treasurer’s Report, and Review of Time Sheets were accomplished in four minutes flat. The Codes Report listed the status of three problem-properties, and Councilman Trevarthan requested a Codes Complaint Form to initiate action against a fourth.

From problem properties, Council moved on to the Parks Report. VP Boughton reported some 25 attendees for the borough’s Halloween Party, and all agreed that it came off very well. Councilman Arthur reported that mulch would be delivered to the park next week, and he proposed a work day at the park beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 22nd. The purpose of the work will be to spread mulch, rake leaves, and conduct a general clean-up. He noted that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is providing assistance in this endeavor. Other councilmen and residents are encouraged and welcome to show up and help with the project. He added that should snow be covering the ground work would be postponed to another day.

Eric Page delivered the Building Committee Report, and noted that the committee would be meeting again next week. The committee is currently investigating what the ballpark dollar amount would be for a 30’ x 60’ modular building so as to determine the idea’s feasibility. He reiterated that no concrete action--only investigative research--is being conducted at this early stage of the committee’s work.

For the Mayor’s Report, Mayor Beavan reported that Halloween had been very quiet and disturbance-free. The Police Report for the month of October showed police responded to six incidents in the borough: burglaries (2), disorderly conduct (1), harassment by communications (1), assault (1), and a stop-sign violation--rolling stop (1).

Old Business included only the remark by Secretary/Treasurer Brush that the budget draft is in process, but was not on the agenda for tonight.

New Business included three items. First councilmen voted unanimously to accept Auditor Joe Collura’s offer to conduct the borough’s 2014 audit for a fee of $1,250. Second, council by consensus agreed to engage JHA Sewerage Enforcement Officers for the borough for the next year. The third item discussed was the invitation by Susquehanna Depot borough to their Christmas Party on Friday, December 12.

At 7:27 p.m. the meeting adjourned and attendees departed into the wintry weather for the welcoming hearth of home. Next scheduled monthly meeting for Oakland Boro Council is Thursday, December 11th at 7 p.m. in Lanesboro’s Community Center.

The Susquehanna County Commissioners meeting on November 12 was held at 9am at the Court House in Montrose in the Commissioners meeting room. Present at this meeting were Commissioner Chair Alan Hall, Commissioner Vice-Chair Michael Giangrieco, and Treasurer Cathy Benedict; absent from the meeting was Commissioner Maryann Warren.

The Commissioners began the meeting by recognizing the Employee of the Year, Christine Harder who received a certificate for her 20 years of service at the Jail. During this meeting the agenda included the hiring of a new, non-union position of Assistant Chief Assessor in Hop Bottom which was filled by Mary Noldy. George Conner was reappointed to the County’s Economic Advisory Board for a term ending December 31, 2016. In addition two full-time Dispatcher Trainee positions were filled: in Montrose, Jeffery Oleniacz was approved for the position; in Nicholson, Timothy Ransom was approved.

It was also on the agenda to create a few new positions by the Jail Board. The position for a non-union, Sergent/Training Officer for the Susquehanna County Correctional Facility at a pay rate of $13.00=-$18.00 depending on qualifications and experience for a 40 hour work week. This position would require a six month probation period and benefits according to government mandate and per county personnel policy. The Commissioners were questioned about these government mandated benefits at which time Chief Commissioner Hall described how Obama Care is affecting Susquehanna County by creating an extra expense in benefit packages. According to Commissioner Hall, prior to Obama Care benefits would take effect after 6 months. However with the new mandates in place with Obama Care these benefits have to be in place within 60 days at an increased cost to the County of $10,000-$12,000 per year.

A position was also created at the request of the Jail Board for a part time kitchen steward at the Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, not to exceed 29 hour per week at the rate of $12.59 per hour with no benefits. The Jail board also requested the Commissioners increase the number of part time corrections officers by five. Commissioner Hall stated that this increase is needed to cover periods when full time correction officers are off, or on vacations. At this time the Commissioners, also at the request of the Jail Board eliminated the position of Second Deputy Warden.

The Commissioners also approved the 2015 contract with Northern Tier Regional Planning & Development Commission at a cost of $14,700.00. When questioned about this contract and its benefits Chief Commissioner Hall responded by explaining that the benefits provided by this organization outweigh the cost since the county could not create a department to provide these services for $14,700.00 or less. The organization helps with chipping roads and bridges, which as a result creates revenue and jobs in Susquehanna County.  Another expense voted on and approved was a Software License Agreement between EST (Evaluator Services and Technology) in Greensburg, PA and Susquehanna County in which Susquehanna County will purchase with Act 13 funding for $191,191.00 for the Assessment Office. Also approved by the Commissioners was to accept a loan from Peoples National Bank in the amount of $93,383.00 at an interest rate of 1.50% plus a $100 bank fee for a 30 day period for a new telephone system.

At this time the Commissioners meeting was adjourned. The next Commissioners meeting will be held on November 26th at 9:00 am in the Commissioners meeting room at the Susquehanna County Court House.

On Monday, November 10th, at 7:30pm the Forest City Regional School District held their monthly meeting in the High School library lasting just under an hour. In addition to the school board several other participants were present including Superintendent John J Kopicki who presented the Superintendent report, High School Principal Peter Jorden to present three outstanding seniors with recognition plaques, and several other observers.

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by one of this month’s outstanding seniors, Alan Brucher playing the National Anthem on a handmade electric guitar.

Alan Brucher playing the National Anthem for the school board

Alan, along with John Darrenkamp made this electric guitar for their senior project. Alan said the two used Alder wood and spent thirty-six and a half hours on the project which included routing, and meticulously designing this guitar which will be given to Mr. Scavone’s band program.  The third outstanding senior of the month was Emily Statkun who was recognized for her senior project as well. Emily painted a Spanish mural over an old map, which now hangs in Mr. Priebe’s class room. All three students were presented with recognition plaques by High School Principal Peter Jorden. Principal Jorden announced that all three students have plans to continue their educations after high school.

Alan Brucher is the son of Alan and Jennifer Brucher of Browndale, and he plans to study Electrical Engineering.

John Darrenkamp is the son of John and Rebecca Darrenkamp from Forest City. John plans to continue his education by studying Psychology.

Emily Statkun is the daughter of Steven and Kelly Statkun of Uniondale. Kelly is going to pursue an education in Industrial Design.

At this time the board voted on several motions which included the appointment of two new substitutes, Nicholas Bolock as support staff and Mary Hanstine for secondary. Also approved was Robert Clark with Michael Hartman for boys Basketball 5th and 6th grade, Michael Heck for boys 7th grade basketball, and Josh Aniska for girls JV basketball. Kim Mead was also approved for custodian position effective November 17th. Included in the voting, and approved by the board, was the renewal of a three year contract for WVIA at the cost of $1,140 each year. WVIA program allows the district student to participate in the annual scholastic bowl, as well as offers a great deal of supplemental educational material to teachers and students such as educational videos, internet and paper resources.

Next on the agenda was the Superintendents report, which was presented by Superintendent Kopicki in which he announced that this year’s SAT scores were at 1016, the highest they have been in fifteen years. Superintendent Kopicki credited this achievement to all involved in the education of the Forest City students in which he included the teachers and staff at Forest City Regional School District as well as the parents, board members, and the community.

Also mentioned in the Superintendents report was the success of Rachel’s Challenge. Rachel’s Challenge is a program designed to bring communities and school districts together to promote acts of kindness. It was announced that it was “quit an event to have a sea of orange running through Forest City”. The parade was led by the principal, while kids with the band made a stop at the nursing home, merchants came out and supported by lining the streets and the band played for the onlookers.

Superintendent Kopicki then announced two upcoming events that he wanted to invite everyone to attend. On November 19th, Mrs. Lionett as well as Mrs. McGraw, the High School guidance counselors, will be holding a Financial Aide Night. At this event, which future college students and parents are encouraged to attend, they will be providing financial aid and scholarship information as well as applications for both. The second event is being held on November 23rd, from 3-6 pm when the High School Chorus will be performing the Cabaret; all are invited to attend. This concluded the Superintendent report.

At this time the meeting was adjourned. The next Forest City Regional Board meeting will be held Wednesday, December 3rd at 7:30 pm in the High School Library.

The Susquehanna County Commissioners announce the Courthouse will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 27 & 28, 2014 in observance of Thanksgiving. All court related offices will be available.

Missing Person- Update: At approximately 2:30 pm on November 13th PSP Gibson received a call from two rabbit hunters who stated that they discovered the body of a female in the area of Creek Road in Herrick Township. PSP Gibson Criminal Investigative Unit members proceeded to the scene and determined it to be the body of Harriet Keim, and 84 year old female who suffered from dementia and had been missing since 09/29/14. An autopsy was scheduled for a later date. The investigation was continuing as of the time of report.

Crash: On November 14th at 7:07 am David Buckland of Milanville was traveling west on SR 374. After cresting a hill in the roadway his vehicle lost traction and began to spin. The vehicle left the north side of the roadway and impacted the embankment with the rear bumper and hitch. It then rolled over and came to rest on its roof facing a southerly direction. No injuries were reported to the trooper. The police were assisted by the Union Dale Volunteer Fire Company.

Theft: An incident occurred as unknown perpetrator(s) stole approximately 200 bales of hay over the span of 1 month from an unlocked barn in Herrick Township.

Attempted Burglary-Prowler: A crime occurred as an unknown male peered into the front window of a Le Raysville, Pa woman as she was in her kitchen. After seeing the victim, the male- described as being a white man in his thirties- fled the scene on foot towards the rear of the residence. The area was checked with negative results. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Criminal Mischief: Between November 8th and 12th a criminal mischief incident occurred at a location in New Milford Borough in which unknown perpetrator(s) damaged the padlock on the door to the victim's garage. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the state police at Gibson.

Harassment: On November 10th at 7:17 pm a 15 year old female struck another 15 year old female in the face with a closed fist following a verbal altercation at the Montrose High School.

Crash: On November 3rd at 11:52 am Charles Clarkson of Harford and John McCarthy of Conklin were both traveling north on SR 11 in Hallstead Borough. McCarthy was stopped for a school bus alighting students. Clarkson failed to stop and struck the rear of McCarthy. No injuries were reported to the trooper. Clarkson's car had to be towed from the scene. Police were assisted at the scene by Hallstead Fire and EMS. Both operators were cited for violations at the scene.

Theft: On November 10th one or more unknown perpetrator(s) took apart and stole a sliding board from a swing set in Apolacon Township. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Criminal Mischief: The police, along with the Silver Lake township Police, investigated a report of several mailboxes being smashed at locations in Liberty and Franklin Townships. Charges were filed at DC 34-3-01 against four males aged 19 and under from Montrose and Hallstead.

Burglary: A Little Meadows home was entered and three firearms taken from within. One was a shot gun and the other two were rifles. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Retail Theft: On November 9th at 3:14 pm a white male and white female entered the Dollar General store in Hallstead borough. The male was wearing a gray hoodie, blue jeans, and a baseball hat. He had his ears pierced with gauges in them. The female was wearing a pink shirt with black pants. The male attempted to walk out of the store with items up his shirtsleeves. He was confronted by the store manager. The male returned the items and fled the scene. The two were operating a white SUV with PA registration plates. Anyone having information is asked to please contact the police.

Theft: JAFLO Tree Service reported that two Stihl chainsaws were stolen from the back of a JAFLO truck that was working on site. The saws had JAFLO engraved as an identifier. The incident occurred on November 7th.

Theft: Between November 5th and 7th, a Clifford man reported a Summit Titan Climbing Treestand stolen.

Criminal Mischief: At November 8th at 9:54 pm Sheila Brickard of Forest Lake Township had her mailbox damaged. It was struck with an unknown object causing damage to the side and door. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police at 570-465-3154.

Crash: On November 6th at 6:39 am Mark Martin of Tunkhannock was traveling north on Sr 29 when he fell asleep. The vehicle traveled off the left shoulder and struck the embankment. It rolled onto its passenger side. After striking the embankment it then spun counter clockwise before coming to a rest facing south in the south bound lane of the road.

DUI: Troopers conducted a traffic stop in Great Bend Township at which Eric Spry of Conklin was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and was placed under arrest. Charges were to be filed at DC 34-3-02.

Theft: A check occurred in which Sarah Zimmerman is accused of stealing a check from a victim, writing it out to herself, and cashing it. The accused also stole the victim's debit card and used it six times. Charges were filed in District Court 34-3-01.

Theft From a Motor Vehicle: A crime occurred as one or more unknown perpetrator(s) entered a victim's vehicle (Jeep Wrangler) through an unsecured rear door. The perpetrator(s) stole two plastic wallets containing miscellaneous credit/gift cards. The perpetrator(s) then went to the victim's truck and stole anti-freeze out of the bed and batteries out of the cab. The incident occurred in Clifford Township; anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Harassment: On November 4th at 2:15 pm a harassment occurred at the parking lot of Shana and Frank's Pub in which an unknown perpetrator struck a 22 year old male int eh face and fled west on Sr 706 in an unknown vehicle. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to please contact the police.

Crash: On November 2nd at 2:45 am Erick Rasnic of Montrose was traveling northbound on Sr 29 when his vehicle exited the east side of the roadway and struck a utility pole with its front driver side. The vehicle came to a rest against the pole facing northwest. The operator was injured in the crash and was transported to the hospital. Seat belt use is listed as none used/not applicable. The vehicle sustained disabling damage and was towed from the scene.

Hit and Run: On November 3rd at 2 pm an unknown perpetrator was traveling north on Sr 858 when he or she lost control of the vehicle which traveled off the east shoulder into a grassy area. It then continued to travel in a northern direction before striking a road sign. After impact, the vehicle traveled on Bolles Hill Road and fled the scene in an unknown direction. The road sign was knocked over and came to a rest in the grassy area.

Crash: On November 1st at 12:30 am Alex Glover of Susquehanna was traveling eastbound on Sr 171 when his vehicle exited off the north side of the roadway and struck a building with the front driver side. It then rotated 90 degrees and came to a final rest on the north side of the roadway facing northwest. It sustained disabling damage and was towed form the scene. The driver was not injured in the crash; a seat belt was in use.

Theft from Motor Vehicle: The police are investigating the theft of a wallet from the parked vehicle of a Vestal woman, which was parked at the Pennstar Bank parking lot in Choconut Township, across form the Choconut Inn. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police.

Hit and Run: On November 1st Stephanie Purdy of Springville was traveling north on Sr 29 in Bridgewater Township at the same time as a Ford F Series pickup truck was traveling south. This truck went into the oncoming lane and struck Purdy's vehicle. It then fled the scene south. The truck came to its final controlled rest area off the east side of the north bound lane, facing north. Parts from the scene describe the truck as a white F250 or F350, from 2011 to 2014, with driver's side damage and missing a driver's side mirror. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the police. No fire or EMS responded. JD Towing towed Purdy's vehicle from the scene. Injury of unknown severity was received; a lap and shoulder belt was in use.

Assault: On November 14th at approximately 7:47 a trooper responded to the emergency room at Endless Mountains Health Systems and spoke with a male victim. The man related that a approximately 5 pm he and Alan Blaisure of Laceyville were in the parking lot of the Rush Township ball field. At that time the victim was confronted by the defendant over a $25 debt. The victim told Blaisure that he was unable to pay the debt, at which time the other man grabbed his collar and stated that he would get his money one way or another. He then placed his leg between the victim's legs and forced the victim to the ground. During this action, the victim suffered a compound fracture to his left tibia and fibula. Following this incident, the accused fled the area.

Anyone having information regarding any of these incidents is asked to please contact the police at (570) 465-3154.

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County DOMESTIC RELATIONS Section has outstanding BENCH WARRANT’S for the following individuals as of 10:30 a.m. on November 14, 2014: Kristina M. Baker, Brett F. Barnes, Brent V. Birtch, Edwin Blaisure, Jennifer Blassingame, David A. Calla, Anthony M. Choplosky, Tina M. Clark, Christopher J. Clark, David J. Fischer, Justin T. Giberson, Randy Gregory, Charles Groover, Jeremy W. Hall, Timothy M. Holmes, Lyle J. Hugaboom, Todd J. Layton, Charlie J. Legere, Casey M. Lehman, Derrick Lezinsky, Joshua Perry, Vincent J. Petriello, Veronica D. Phelps, Marita J. Sellitto, Desiree L. Shifler, Courtney M. Sterling, Joseph W. Sutton, Frederick Swingle, III, Tessa E. Thomas, Kurtis Tracy, Steven G. Warner, Jamie L. Williams Sr. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 170 with any information on the location of these individuals.

DEEDS

Diane  & Merle Pennay to Margaret A. Allen, in. Lenox Township for $1.00.

Norma Weiner to Norma Weiner (TRUST), in Thompson Township for $10.00.

Michele B. Hackett & David T. Hackett (AKA) David Hackett to Michele B. Hackett & David T. Hackett (aka) David Hackett, in Montrose for $1.00.

Donna Mae Walter Rabas (AKA) Donna Walters (TRUST) , James Arthur Rabas (AKA) James A. Walter, Margaret R. Walters & William C. Walters (ESTATE) to William C. Reilly, in Rush Township for $380,000.00.

Christopher A.  & Michaela Piercy to Paul Tomaine, in Ararat Township for $125,000.00.

James Waldorf (FKA) James B. Waldorf Jr. to Freestar Energy Group, in Auburn Township for $10.00.

Bradley M. Brand & Amber Lee Jacobs to Eugenia M. Brand, in Liberty Township for $1.00.

Eugenia M. Brand (BY ATTY) to Bradley M. Brand & Amber Lee Jacobs, in Liberty Township for $1.00.

William D. Wynn to Clay T & Lorraine L. Martin, in Oakland Township for $93,400.00.

Kenneth S. & Mary L. Gesford to Pennsylvania Commonwealth of Dept. of Transportation, in Forest Lake Township for $100.

James Michael & Debbie J. Kelly to Kevin & Kathleen Grausgruber, in Harmony Township for $239,000.00.

US Bank to Joseph M. & Jessica E. Burchell, in Jackson Township for $51,000.00.

Sharon L. Glath to Glath Holdings I LLC, in Jackson Township for $1.00.

Sharon L Glath to Glath Holdings II LLC, in Jackson Township for $1.00.

Sharon L. Glath to Glath Holdings III LLC, in Jackson Township for $1.00.

James & Marlene Homan to MaryAnne Homan, in Apolacon Township for $1.00.

Ronald & Monica A. Smicker to Nicholas S. & Karen D. Twining Sr., in Choconut Township for $134,000.00.

Edith E. Henry (ESTATE) & Sandra J. Robinson to Bonnice Land LLC, in Jessup Township for $27,000.00.

Joeseph & Jennifer Mazzocchi to Ronald & Pamela Stecker, in Harford Township for $84,000.00.

Louise P. Arnold (ESTATE) & Arnold Living Trust (BY TRUSTEE) to Dick Griffis Richards, in Rush Township for $1.00.

Eleanor R. Jagger (ESTATE AKA) Eleanor J. Jagger (ESTATE) to Alan R. & Holly J. Hagger, in Hop Bottom Boorough for $130,000.00.

Floyd & Sandra J. Brown III to  Alice M. Davis in Auburn Township for $140,00.00.

Vivian H. Bechtel (ESTATE AKA) Vivian Bechtel (ESTATE) to Nancy L. Olmstead, Carl H. & Lee C. Bechtel, in Rush Township for $1.00.

Andrew Anderson & Lynn Ann Racht to Thomas Dougher & Tiffany Evarts, in Forest City for $34,000.00.

David A. Shears to William O. & Betty Shears, in Little Meadows Borough for $1.00.

William C Miller & Patricia J. Pitarra to  Patricia J., Lawrence L. & Nickolas E. Pitarra, in Herrick Township for $100.00.

William C. Miller to Patricia J., Lawrence L. & Nickolas E. Pitarra, in Herrick Township for $100.00.

William C. Miller & Patricia J. Pitarra to Patricia J.,  Lawrence L. & Nickolas E. Pitarra in Herrick Township for $100.00.

Carl & Pamela M. Cobb to Carl & Pamela M. Cobb in Brooklyn Township for $1.00.

Cathy Slater (NBM) Cathy D. Cottrell & Earl E. Cottrell Sr., to Amy L. Slater in Liberty Township for $5,000.00.

Charles R. Rauch to Chad A. & Kathy J. Morgridge, in Bridgewater Township for $127,500.00.

Barry K & Alice M. Schmidt to Schmidt Family Trust, in Franklin Township for $1.00.

Ain A. Welmon to Daniel C. & Wendy D. Tegeler, in New Milford Township for $147,500.00.

Roger Martin, Collen L. Martin & Janet Austin to Howard J. & Heidi L. Thatcher Jr., in Hallstead Borough for $55,000.00.

United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs to Corey Miller (AKA) Corey A. Miller & Cheyenne Miller in Oakland Borough for $18,000.00.

Timothy J. & Melissa A. Koscinski to Raymond E. Cebular, in Forest Lake Townshp for $259,900.00.

Christopher Tracy, Cathleen Tracy, Catherine & Thomas Holeran to UP 4 Sale Property LLC, in Dimock Township for $3,250.00.

Christopher Tracy, Cathleen Tracy, Catherine & Thomas Holeran to Arnolmont Partners LP, in Dimock Township for $19,000,00.

Mildred M. Carpenter (ESATE AKA) Mildred Carpenter (ESTATE) to SMB Liberty LP, in Liberty Township for $480.000.00.

Brian Timothy Welch to Debora Werkheiser, in Gibson Township to $1,000.00.

Alan C. & Denise A. Bloomer to Debora Werkheiser, in Gibson Township for $23,000.00.

Charles A. Bennett to Sandra J. & Floyd Brown III , in Montrose for $120.000.00.

Martha A. Palka (ESTATE AKA Martha Palka (ESTATE) & Kristen M. Harding to James R Guerriero & Rosalind Hammer, in Silver Lake Township for $25,000.00.

Roland D. Gasbarro to Applaachin Basin Minseral LP, Wildes Mineral Interests LLC & McCrow Energy Partners II LP, in New Milford Township for $45,000.00.

Robert A. & Donna C. Coleman to Anthony Neu,  in Susquehanna for $45,000.00.

Gene Kase Jr. (ESTATE AKA) Gene C. Kase Jr. (ESTATE AKA) Gene Kase (ESTATE) to Maryann Ceccarelli, in Lenox Township for $1.00.

Beverly I. Vauter to Beverly I. & Benjamin Vauter, in Clifford Township for $1.00.

Joanne L. & Kenneth A. Pettis Sr. to Dennis J. & Marilyn J. MusCarelle, in Bridgewater Township for $60.000.00.

Bruce Palevac to Susann M. Davis, in Clifford Township for $1.00.

Pamela Anne Cirzeveto to Robert Farthing, in Choconut Township for $10,000.00.

Sandra Zawicki to Joanne L. & Kenneth A. Pettis Sr., in Bridgewater Township for $25,000.00.