This is WQRM Regional News for Friday, June 30, 2006

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…a 2 vehicle accident yesterday morning was responded to by Ridgway troopers.  They report that Frank Bellas, 77, of Benezette was operating a 1997 Ford F-150.  Turning into Route 555 to travel east Bellas saw a vehicle driven by James Benedek, 41, of Reynoldsville.  At that time, troopers say Bellas applied the brakes before striking the Benedek vehicle.  Charges for driving at a safe speed were filed.

Criminal mischief by unknown persons is being investigated by Ridgway troopers after someone broke the driver’s side front window on a 2000 Ford Excursion owned by Martin Herbstritt, 42, of Wilcox.  PSP tell WQRM the incident occurred on Wednesday.

Theft in Lafayette Township between June 18^th and the 21^st is under investigation by Kane based state police.  During that time someone took a men’s Cobra brand speed driver and a woman’s Cobra brand 440 S2 driver with a total value of nearly $800.00.  The items were taken from property owned by Timothy Petitt of Bradford.  Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Kane PSP.

And state police in our listening area ask that our listeners not call the barracks regarding road conditions such as flooding.  For an up-to-date report you can phone PennDOT’s road condition hotline at 1-888-783-6783.

The defense in a case against Bauschard Dodge owner, 58 year old Philip C. Bauschard, has asked the judge in the case for a continuance, which will move the date Bauschard will answer charges to August 3^rd.  Bauschard’s attorney, Robert Saunders, filed the Motion to Continue with McKean County Court Judge John Yoder.  Charges involve both the Bradford and former Smethport locations.  Of the counts listed are 43 for failure to deliver titles to the D.O.T., wrongly using dealer plates and 2 counts of theft by deception among others.

The search for escapee Ralph “Bucky” Philips intensified in New York state yesterday in the Batavia area.  A sighting occurred around 2:00am Tuesday when troopers spotted Philips near a wooded area in Charlotte.  A knife and several guns were recovered from the spot where Philips was seen in that area.  A reward is being offered in the case and Philips is considered armed and dangerous.

A former McKean County Jail warden was charged with theft for his alleged involvement in missing funds several years ago.  Robert D. Windsor, 43, of Eldred was cited for failure to make required disposition of funds and misapplication of entrusted property and property of a government institution.  The charges are connected to an investigation done over a 4 year period.  A state police investigation determined that over $22,000 in inmate accounts were tampered with.  Windsor was released earlier this week on bail of $10,000 unsecured.

A Warren man plead guilty Thursday in county court over threatening a court judge and the judge’s wife.  Christopher Walton, 26, was escorted into the courtroom in shackles and leg irons by law enforcement.  McKean County Judge John Yoder set sentencing for August 31^st before Walton was jailed on bail of $150,000.

Thursday's News will be posted Monday, 7/3.  Sorry for the inconvenience.

This is WQRM Regional News for Wednesday, June 28, 2006

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…An Emporium man escaped injury during an accident yesterday along Route 120, 4 miles east of Emporium.  State police there tell WQRM Robert Stitt was operating a 1995 Jeep Cherokee on wet Route 120 when he lost control sending the Jeep into the guiderail before it rolled.  Stitt was charged with not driving at a safe speed.

Kane based state police responded to an accident along Route 246, just west of Moody Hollow Road in Otto Township yesterday afternoon.  Reports state that Steven Kimble, 33, of Smethport was driving a 1998 Toyota Tacoma east when he attemtped to pass a 2005 Peterbuilt operated in front of him by Daniel Finlan of Rixford.  Finlan was turning right into a private drive when he struck Kimble’s vehicle while Kimble attempted to pass on the right.  Kane PSP cited Kimble with overtaking a vehicle on the right.

Criminal mischief in Shippen Township is being investigated by Emporium troopers after 8 mailboxes on different roads were damaged early yesterday morning between 3:00 and 4:00am .  Those with information on this incident are asked to contact Emporium PSP.

Burglary at a Lititiz, PA woman’s seasonal residence between May 29^th and Monday of this week is being investigated.  Coudersport based state police tell WQRM someone entered the camp along Emmel Road in Ulysses Township , discharging a fire extinguisher.

Burglary in Fox Township   is being investigated by Ridgway troopers after someone entered Pop-up Video in Kersey on Monday or Tuesday of this week.  After forcibly entering the business several unnamed items were taken.  Those with additional information can contact state police in Ridgway.

And bad check writing at the Potter County Solid Waste Authority earlier this month is being investigated by Coudersport based state police after 40 year old Jeffery Lloyd of Harrison Valley wrote a check to the Potter County SWA in the amount of $2.25.

Judge Robert Gerber has okayed the sale of Adelphia’s assets to Time Warner and Comcast.  The deal worth some $17 billion will strengthen Time Warner and Comcast’s spots as the top 2 cable companies in the U.S.

Reports indicate that fugitive Ralph Philips may now be surviving off the land in the Chautauqua Gorge State Park .  An abandoned 1996 Cadillac was found near the park yesterday.  Philips is believed to have something to do with recent burglary activity in that county.  No recent sightings of Philips are known at this time by Horseheads , NY based state police.  A $25,000 reward is being offered for the capture of the fugitive, who escaped in April.

A bat found in a Warren home has tested positive for rabies according to the PA Department of Agriculture.  The bat was collected from a North South Street home on June 14^th.

Olean resident Shawn Armstrong, 32, has been sentenced to 6 years in the NY State Correctional Facility for selling crack.  Following the 6 years, Armstrong will be required to serve 5 years on probation.  Armstrong is being imprisoned for selling the controlled substance in early July of 2005.

During a meeting of the Port Allegany School Board Monday evening, the board set the salary for that of administration and supervisor.  Positions for coaches of cross country and soccer were also filled by Frances Reilly and Aaron Clark, respectively.  The next board meeting is scheduled for August 7^th at 7:30pm in the elementary school blue room.

PennDOT license centers will be closed next Tuesday in observance of the July 4^th holiday.  Many of the license centers’ applications will still be available online, with no additional charge applied.

This is WQRM Regional News for Tuesday, June 27, 2006

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…all was quiet according to our checks with state police in Kane, Coudersport, Ridgway and Emporium. There were no related incidences to report either.

Criminal mischief between the 23^rd and yesterday was investigated by Emporium troopers after someone knocked over 6 PennDOT road signs along the Moore Hill Road area in Shippen Township.  Damage is estimated at $30.00.

Nathaniel Maloney, 18, of Ridgway was operating a 2000 Pontiac Sunfire early Sunday morning when he fell asleep at the wheel.  Ridgway PSP tell WQRM Maloney was southbound on Route 219 at the time, shortly after 2:00am, when his car left 219 and traveled approximately 144 feet, receiving moderate damage.  Maloney was not injured.

A 23 year old Emporium man was taken into custody without incident Sunday evening after state police there learned Christopher Emerick was wanted by the USMC for desertion from Camp Lejeune, NC in January of 2004.

Theft from a Wellsboro man’s car occurred on Tuesday or Wednesday of last week according to Coudersport PSP who are investigating.  Some time over that time frame someone took a .357 handgun from Tracy Crawford’s 2004 truck while it was parked at his business in Pike Township, Potter County.  Anyone with additional information is asked to contact state police in Coudersport.

And burglary between January 1^st and June 1^st of this year is being investigated.  Coudersport troopers tell us someone entered a camp owned by Michael Smouse of Pleasant Gap.  It’s believed this incident may be connected to a rash of other burglaries occurring by a group of people.

Two lawmakers on our listening area  are supporters of a tougher version of Megan’s Law, the law behind tracking child sex abuse persons.  Both Senator Joe Scarnati and Representative Martin Causer back legislation which will increase the penalty for those inappropriately involved with a child under 12 to 25 years.  They will also be tracked by GPS for the remainder of their life.  It also gives second offense criminals a minimum of a 50 year sentence.  And it will require that all offenders be listed on the Megan’s Law website.

And US Army Master Sergeant and native of Bradford was killed by enemy fire over the weekend.  38 year old Master Sergeant Thomas D. Maholic of Bradford was his by enemy fire Sunday.  Maholic was stationed in fort Brag with the 2^nd Batallion, 7^th Special Forces Group.

This is WQRM Regional News for Monday, June 26, 2006

On the traffic and accident scene over the past weekend…a one vehicle collision was responded to by Coudersport based state police Saturday night.  Dustin Rinehart, 18, of Galeton was operating a 2000 Dodge Caravan eastbound on Route 6.  Rinehart lost control of the van when a deer entered the roadway, sending the Rinehart vehicle off the north side or the roadway and into a ditch.  No charges were filed and Rinehart was not injured in the incident.

A 13 year old Weedville teen was cited by Ridgway troopers after they observed the teen riding an ATV along Jefferson Street in Byrndale, Jay Township on Saturday.

An incident of theft from two vehicle in Kersey over the weekend is still under investigation by Ridgway based state police. Reportedly, someone entered a 2000 Dodge Intrepid owned by Chellie Updyke.  After entering the vehicle through an unlocked door, those involved took as many as 15 Christian CDs.  They then proceeded to enter a 1990 Dodge Dakota owned by Raymond Foster, taking a wallet and miscellaneous tools.  Those with information on these thefts are asked to contact state police in Ridgway.

A Galeton woman was charged for her involvement in a criminal mischief incident in Gaines on Friday.  Coudersport PSP tell WQRM Cindy Bruce, 38, of Galeton drove over Christmas trees and stalks of corn on property owned by Kevin Sykora of Gaines.

Burglary on Thursday or Friday behind the Kersey Firehall in Fox Township is under investigation.  Ridgway troopers state that during that time frame someone used an unknown object to force entry into a park supply building.  Once inside, numerous items were taken before the actor or actors fled.

Monica Mussler of Coudersport told State police there that someone may have taken her wallet containing several dollars, 3 credit cards, 2 keys and the victim’s driver’s license while she was at the Northwoods Tavern on Friday.  Anyone with information on this crime is asked to contact state police.

Burglary at a seasonal residence in Pleasant Valley Township between May 7^th and June 22^nd is under investigation by the Coudersport state police barracks after someone pried open a window at a camp owned by James Grube Sr. of New Providence .  Various items removed from the camp are valued at approximately $580.00.  Those with further information can contact Coudersport based state police.

The scattering of rubbish in Harrison Township is being investigated by Coudersport troopers after the incident took place between the 14^th and this past Thursday on property owned by Jere Martin of Harrison Valley .

Ridgway based state police report that an incident of theft from a motor vehicle on the 22^nd or 23^rd is under investigation by their barracks.  Someone entered a 2000 Dodge Intrepid owned by Chellie Updike of Kersey, taking 15 Christian CDs before fleeing in an unknown direction.

There’s a flood watch for parts of our listening area including Potter, Cameron and Elk Counties .  The watch extends through this evening, with up to 5 inches or rainfall possible in those areas.

Checking the PennDOT schedule for this week…in McKean County bridge repairs will be done on Route 146, Red Mill Brook Creek.  This bridge will be closed.  Ditch cleaning will be done on Big Shanty Road from Route 59 to Lewis Run.  Crack sealing is planned for Route 6, Port Allegany and Route 219 Tacks Inn area.  Brushing will be done along Route 646, Bingham Road to Route 346.  Patching will be done on Route 219 to the Bradford City Line on Route 59 in addition to the Westline Road.  And piping will be installed on Route 146 and Christian Hollow Road.

In Elk County, crack sealing is planned for Route 255 and Tambine Road.  Ditch cleaning will be done near Montmorenci/Route 948 area and low shoulders will be filled along Route 948.

The Shinglehouse Bicentennial begins this Thursday at 6:00pm.  Events kick off with an opening ceremony at the Oswayo Valley Memorial Library lawn.  Other activities include a time capsule at 7:15 and historical society presentations at 7:30.  Events continue through Saturday, ending at 3:00pm with a parade at 4:00pm.

This is WQRM Regional News for Friday, June 23, 2006

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…a one vehicle accident yesterday left a Lewis Run resident with serious injuries after the incident late yesterday.  Edward Horn, 21, of Lewis Run was operating a 1995 Dodge Caravan along Route 219, just north of Route 59.  According to Kane PSP, Horn’s vehicle left the west side of 219 and struck a tree, coming to rest after impact.  Horn was taken to Kane Community Hospital .  State police have charged the driver with careless driving and an equipment violation.

Criminal mischief just off Route 219 in Ridgway Township on Wednesday or Thursday is being investigated by Ridgway troopers after someone used a sharp object to slash the driver’s side tires on a vehicle owned by Justin Blashaw of St. Marys.  Those with additional information can contact PSP in Ridgway.

Burglary at Hemlock Lodge in West Branch Township is under investigation by Coudersport PSP after someone forced entry into the camp owned by Thomas Bross of New Oxford.  Those with information can contact Coudersport based state police.

Criminal mischief in Shippen Township between Friday and Monday was investigated by Emporium troopers after someone damaged a door on a trailer owned by John Jordan of Emporium.

Officials with the Bradford Bypass project tell us that Main and Elm Streets in Bradford are to be closed at different times next week as work progresses.  Both streets are not scheduled to be closed at the same time.

And two wanted persons from North Carolina were taken into custody yesterday morning in St. Marys Police there took Lawrence Sherrill, 22, and Allison Gay, 20, into custody after spotting a suspicious vehicle at the intersection of Brusselles and Theresia Streets in the city.  Upon learning the vehicle in question was stolen, a search was started for the occupant or occupants.  Both were jailed after being arraigned on several charges including fleeing and eluding.

The 34^th Annual Cross Fork Snake Hunt will be held this weekend.  Activities begin Saturday at 8:00am with a non-poisonous Kid’s Snake Pit.  The Fireman’s Parade kicks off at 2:00pm .  Activities continue throughout the day.  Sunday’s activities begin at 9:00am with a Fake Snake Hunt for children 16 and younger.  Missing this year, due to insurance costs, is the Rattlesnake Sacking Contest.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…state police on our listening area tell us all was quiet.  There were no related incidences to report either.

Arson in Potter County Tuesday is being investigated by Coudersport based state police after someone set the residence of Brian Farleigh of Hazleton on fire between 4:00 and 5:00am .  Several pieces of farm equipment on the property were also set on fire.  Those with additional information are asked to contact state police.

And disorderly conduct charges were filed against a Galeton man after he used obscene language in the presence of Wendy and David Burrous of Galeton.  Dan Mock, 48, of Galeton was charged for the incident which occurred June 6^th.

The installation of a new boiler for the Elk County Courthouse has been tabled by commissioner there after bids ranging from $131,000 to $171,000 were received.  Further research will be done before a decision is made.

Joel Mark Johnston of Smethport has been sentenced to a minimum of 9 months in state prison for his involvement in a harassment incident with neighbors.  Of the actions by Johnston which were brought up in court were inappropriate gestures Defense Attorney Sam Stretton asked for release pending appeal, which was denied by the court.

Morgan AM&T in St. Marys is the recipient of federal funding of $1.5 million.  Funds received will be used by the company to meet requirements in a contract with the government to supply body armor protection.

And the Otto Township C of C mentioned during their meeting yesterday that facilities will be ready in time for the Old Home Days.  The restrooms were made possible through financial support and volunteers.  A finalizing meeting will be held July 19^th to finish details for Old Home Days.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…a known 38 year old Mount Jewett man was stopped by Kane troopers yesterday along Route 219.  During the stopped it was discovered the man was in possession of a suspected marijuana pipe and $700.00 in cash.  The investigation continues.

Theft from the St. Marys Wal-mart yesterday is being investigated.  Ridgway PSP tell WQRM two black males were involved in a scam before the two departed in a dark colored vehicle and with $150.00.  Those with additional information on this incident are asked to contact state police in Ridgway.

Theft from an Odin Road residence in Keating Township is being investigated by Coudersport PSP after someone entered the Duran Knapp residence by unknown means some time over the past 3 days.  During the crime a substantial amount of money was removed from the home before those involved fled.  Those with information on this crime can contact Coudersport PSP.

Theft from property owned by the Buffalo and Pittsburgh Railroad on Monday was investigated after Todd Springer, 43, and 54 year old Rick Godfrey of Warren was caught taking glass wire insulators from a location along the Campbelltown Road area.

Criminal mischief at the Northern Potter Health Service Center between the 16^th and the 19^th remains under investigation.  Coudersport based state police tell us someone reportedly shot paintballs at the facility.

Disorderly conduct by a Belmont , NY man was investigated by Coudersport troopers Saturday as James Cowburn, 38, used an air compressor to launch a glass bottle toward a camper owned by Michael Healy of Ulysses.

And burglary from a force residence is being investigated by Ridgway troopers after someone broke a window on a shed belonging to Mary Canton.  Those with additional details can contact PSP in Ridgway.

Smethport School Board met recently, adopting a 2006-2007 school year budget of $12.13 million and change.  Real estate taxes will increase as a result, by nearly a mill.  In other news, new text books were okayed for several departments.

Smethport’s Summerfest kicks off today with the Long Branch Saloon opening at 11:00am .  Also today is the birding/nature workshop at Hamlin Memorial Library.  Activities continue through 5:00pm Sunday.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…a one vehicle crash along the Bingham Road yesterday morning was responded to by Kane troopers around 10:00am.  The report issued states that John Brown Jr., 26, of Smethport was traveling north when he lost control of his 1989 Ford Bronco on the wet roadway, sending it into a ditch where it rolled once.  Brown and his passenger, 31 year old Thomas Carpenter of Smethport were both taken to BRMC for treatment of minor injuries.  The investigation continues and charges are pending.

Criminal mischief between the 9^th and yesterday remains under investigation as someone arrived at property owned by Energy Resources of Brockway, 1 mile north of the Toby Road in Fox Township, struck a construction trailer on the scene and left.  Those with details on this incident are asked to contact PSP in Ridgway.

Fleeing and eluding charges among others were filed against a known Dagus Mines man after an incident Saturday.  Ridgway based state police tell WQRM Joseph Curry was operating an ATV along Green Road when he was seen by troopers without a helmet.  PSP used their lights in an attempt to stop the accused, only for him to flee onto SR2007 after crossing Route 948.  Curry was later positively identified by a dash mounted camera in the pursuing patrol car.

Elco Sintered Alloys in Kersey was the victim of a reported incident of theft between June 1^st and the 15^th as someone removed a 30 foot 1,000 pound stainless steel muffle from property at the intersection of Route 948 and Green road.  Those with information on this incident are asked to contact PSP.

Two incidences of bad check writing to a Fox Township, Elk County business was investigated by Ridgway PSP after checks were bounced at Fairview Fuels.

The Queens man allegedly involved with a teen earlier this year has been sentenced to two consecutive terms of one to three years.  Walter Escobar-Vega, 28, of Queens, NY will serve the terms in a New York Department of Corrections facility.  The teen girl failed to return home after school in mid-March when a search began for the two.  Escobar-Vega was arrested when seen with the teen at an Olean motel March 19^th.

An Olean man was sentenced for his involvement in the death of a man in Olean in July of last year.  Tyrone Malone, 30, was sentenced to an unmentioned sentence for the negligent death of Kurtis Billingslea in a parking lot near West State and North Fifth Streets in Olean.

Plans are underway to expand Pinecrest Manor in St. Marys.  The expansion will include a 10-bed Alzheimer’s unit, costing over $1 million.  The in-patient facility will have the ability to expand as necessary, with a ground breaking planned for this week.

The Ridgway Independence Festival will kick off Friday morning, for the 25^th year.  Events continue Saturday with a flea market beginning at 8:00am, followed by the car show registration and many other events.  Many other events are planned for both days, including country music on the main stage and an Elvis impersonator Friday and a kids battle of the barrel and Daryl and Bob on Saturday.

On the traffic and accident scene over the past weekend…A Whitesville man received moderate injuries in an accident yesterday morning.  Coudersport based state police tell us Christopher Bryant, 21, was operating a 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Coupe along Peet Brook Road when the operator fell asleep behind the wheel, sending Bryant’s car off the roadway and into a tree stump.  The car then rotated and slid down a 10 foot embankment.  Bryant was extricated from the vehicle before being taken to Charles Cole by ambulance.  According to  PSP from Coudersport Bryant was alter flown to Erie.

DUI got a Byrnedale man in trouble with Ridgway PSP Sunday as Abraham Gornati, 22, was operating an ATV along Route 255 before being stopped and arrested by PSP.

A hit and run Saturday is under investigation by Kane PSP after someone backed into a 2006 Pontiac G6 Sedan registered to Steve Wolfe of Olean .  The suspected vehicle may have been a red or copper colored pickup with a PA registration.  Those with further details are asked to contact Kane troopers.

An Eldred teen was injured in an accident Saturday afternoon according to Kane PSP who responded.  William Freer, 19, was operating a 1988 Ford Ranger east on Route 246 when the truck entered the south berm.  When Freer over-corrected to re-enter the roadway, the truck traveled across the roadway and entered the north berm.  It then traveled through grass and went airborne over a creek before coming to rest in a field.  Freer was cited for not driving at a safe speed and failure to use a seatbelt.

Another hit and run over the weekend is being investigated by state police.  Ridgway PSP tell us someone possibly driving a white Ford Truck with a ladder rack backed into a water injection well head in Highland Township Saturday afternoon.  Those with information about this incident which caused approximately $1,000 in damages is asked to contact Ridgway state police.

Chasity Marsh, 21, of Roulette was the operator of a 1996 Pontiac Grand AM involved in an accident Friday afternoon along Lanniger Creek Road in Roulette Township.  Coudersport based state police state that Marsh was traveling north when she lost control sending the car into a fence.  Marsh received minor injuries according to state police.

Harassment among 3 Emporium residents Sunday was investigated by state police there.  Around 7:00pm along Rich Valley Road Evelyn Hooftallen, 30, Thomas Kossman II, 33, and Anna Kossman, 25 were all invovled in a verbal argument after Hooftallen stopped at the Kossman residents to pick up her children.  The argument turned physical and state police charged all three.

Burglary on Saturday or Sunday in Portage Township is under investigation by Emporium troopers after unknown person forced their way into the Cameron County Bucktail Rod and Gun Club on the Sizer Run Road.  No items were reportedly taken.

A hit and run occurred between the 12^th and the 15^th according to Emporium based state police.  They tell WQRM someone struck a DCNR vehicle while it was at an unknown location.

The propulsion of an unknown object by an unknown person is being investigated.  Kane PSP state that just before 6:00pm Sunday Gregory Morrow of Derry , PA was traveling south along Route 219 when something hit his vehicle.  Morrow believed it may have been something thrown for a passing vehicle in the opposing lane.  Those with additional information are asked to contact PSP in Kane.  The suspected vehicle may have been a dark blue Pontiac. 

Charges were filed by Coudersport based state police Sunday against a Genesee man after Jason Bundy, 31, was found inside the Genesee Environmental Center in the early morning hours.  Bundy was charged with criminal trespass, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Four illegal aliens were arrested over the weekend by Ridgway based state police.  State police responded to the St. Marys Wal-Mart just before 7:00pm for a call over a suspicious suitcase in the lobby.  It was determined that Mario Portilla-Najera, 22 and 3 other persons were illegal immigrants.  All four were eventually sent to the Clarion County Prison.  The investigation continues.

Ralph “Bucky” Philips, who escaped from a New York prison earlier this year and is wanted in connection with the shooting of an officer was featured on America’s Most Wanted Saturday evening.  The 43 year old escapee walked away from the Alden Correctional Facility in April and has been seen in Bradford along with Great Valley and Limestone in New York.

Checking the PennDOT schedule for this week…bridge work will be done on Rotue 146, Ditching is being done on Beagle Club Road and Pipe repair is planned for parts of Route 46, Route 146 and Route 321.  Shoulder repair will be done on Big Shanty, mill and patching will be done on Route 219 (Lantz Corners to Route 59) and Route 446 in Eldred Borough.  And guiderail repair will be done on Route 6 in addition to SR 300, 3002 and 3004.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…A Rixford woman received moderate injuries in an accident yesterday along Route 346, just before 7:00pm .  Kane based state police tell us Edna Dubetsky, 76, was operating a 2003 Chevrolet Malibu westbound while Christopher Spencer, 22, of Duke Center was traveling east in a 2003 Ford F-250.  Dubetsky began to make a left turn when she was struck by Spencer’s vehicle, sending the Dubetsky vehicle spinning counterclockwise across the westbound lane.  Dubetsky was transported to BRMC by Otto Township Ambulance and cited.  Spencer was not injured.

Kane based state police tell us a Ludlow man was injured in an accident late yesterday.  Reuben Nearing was operating a 2003 Dodge Truck owned by James Sluga of Mount Jewett when the truck crossed Route 6 just east of Ludlow in Hamilton Township .  It then impacted the guiderail on the south side before the truck spun counterclockwise and came to rest.  Route 6 was closed for nearly 3 hours while PennDOT crews removed the displaced guiderail.  Nearing, according to Kane PSP, was flown to Hamot Medical Center.

Ridgway based state police investigated a criminal trespass incident which occurred yesterday or early this morning as the accused, Paul Solomon IV of Ridgway entered the residence of Angela Solomon, also of Ridgway.  The accused was arrested and arraigned before being jailed in lieu of $5,000 bail.

An annual license review of the Guidance Center was done recently, with the Center being evaluated in the family-based programs, wraparound services, outpatient services and crisis intervention.  The Guidance Center passed all reviews.

Through August 14^th Otto-Eldred School District is offering students under the age of 18 free lunches.  Hours are 11:30am to 12:30pm at the Elementary School and 11:30am to 12:45pm at the Recreational Park.  Contact the Elementary School for further information.

Otto Township Supervisors spent part of their meeting Wednesday discussing the riding of ATVs on township roads.  In other matters, letters to over 100 people will go out for delinquent 2005 per capita taxes.

St. Bonventure will break ground on an addition to the Friedsam Memorial Library Monday at 4:00pm.  A gift of $2 million was given by the Paul and Irene Bogoni Foundation, making the addition possible.

A representative from the Governor’s Veteran’s Outreach and Assistance Center will be at the Bradford Careerlink office Wednesday from 10:00am to 4:00pm .  Veteran’s with questions can speak with the representative at that time.  You’re asked to bring with you your DD-214.  Those who are homebound can phone 1-800-252-0915.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…DUI was attributed to an accident this morning around 3:00am.  Ridgway based state police tell WQRM Jason Chicola, 26, was not wearing a seatbelt when they found him along Ridge Road.  According to police, Chicola was operating a Dodge Neon south on Ridge Road when he lost control while rounding a curve.  The car left the roadway, struck an embankment and then a tree.  Charges are being filed.

According to  Ridgway based state police, a 15 year old female was operating a Honda 250 ATV along Dagus Mines Road in Fox Township yesterday with two 15 year old passengers when she failed to stop for state police around 8:00pm.  A passing motorist observed the pursuit and blocked the lanes of traffic.  Charges were filed against the operator in addition to a passenger for failure to wear a helmet while being under 16.

Criminal mischief on Wednesday is being investigated.  Dawn Giovannelli of Ridgway told state police there that someone broke her front window.  Those with additional information can contact Ridgway PSP.

Harassment charges were filed against two Wrights residents after they drove to a construction site and yelled obscenities at Karl Renner of Port Allegany.  Jeffery Campbell and Michelle Fillhart were both charged by Kane PSP.

A known 15 year old male is being investigated after he apparently sent harassing messaging via myspace.com to a known 15 year old female from Roulette on Sunday.  Coudersport based state police are investigating.

State police are concentrating their search for Ralph “Bucky” Philips north of the Binghamton, NY area according to state police in Horseheads, NY.  Philips is wanted in connection with the shooting of an officer Saturday.  He escaped from a correctional facility in Erie County in April.

Council for John Rigas are asking the charges against their client be thrown out.  Accounting terms are at the base of why John Rigas’ lawyers want the charges dropped.  They state that the terms used by those in accounting were not explained to the jury.  John was sentenced to 15 years in prison while his son, Timothy, was sentenced to 20 years.

Parking in St. Marys will be prohibited on several streets in preparation of the Tri-County Fireman’s Parade, which begins at 1:00pm Saturday.  Streets affected are Brusselles, Railroad, North St. Marys around the diamond, North Michael around the diamond, McGill, Louis and Maurus.

A budget of 9.38 million was okayed by Otto-Eldred School Board during their Tuesday meeting, with no necessary tax increase.  The Vo-tech School budget was also okayed.  And it was decided to advertise for a new roof on the auditorium.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…a one vehicle hit and run occurred yesterday morning along Maple Street in Roulette, according to Coudersport based state police who are investigating.  Around 4:00am 21 year old David Darush of Roulette was operating a 1995 Chevrolet Beretta Coupe south along Maple Street in the village.  For an unknown reason Darush’s car left the roadway and struck 3 mailboxes and a fence before Darush fled.  He was later found and identified as the person responsible.  Those with additional information can contact PSP in Coudersport.

Theft from a motor vehicle in Fox Township is under investigation by Ridgway troopers after Jason Chicola, 26, of St. Marys broke into a vehicle owned by James Ullman yesterday afternoon.  Ridgway PSP tell WQRM once inside the actor removed a portable CD Player and the keys to the vehicle.

Underage drinking by 2 Kersey residents and a St. Marys resident was investigated by Ridgway troopers last evening.  The report issued states that Joshua Longhi, 19 and Adam Gerg, 20, both Kersey residents and 20 year old Derek Fledderman of St. Marys were found just south of Raven Run Road in Fox Township just before 8:00pm.

Theft was investigated by Kane based state police recently after a 15 year old male had his bike taken from his front porch in Keating Township.

The scattering of rubbish in Ludlow is under investigation by Kane troopers after dumped trash on property owned by David Bonacci.

And theft of services in Bingham Township is being investigated by Coudersport troopers after someone plugged an electrical cord into an external outlet on a building owned by Karen Marshall of Lock Haven.

In Port Allegany School Board news…the board passed a budget for the 2006-2007 school year worth $13.6 million.  They also transferred Sharon Daniels from Assistant Principal to Social Studies teacher.  The next board meeting is set for August.

Ridgway Borough Council heard concerns over the skate park and issues with a leak in the community pool during their Monday meeting.  Councilman Jim Fannin stated a fence will be installed at the skate park, with signs posted that helmets are to be used. 

Kane Borough will be the first community to begin recycling with the cooperation of the Rustick Landfill, RecycAll in Port Allegany and St. Gobain also in Port Allegany.  Rustick declined the opportunity to recycle the cullet, as they feared tearing of cell liners.  No specific date for the start-up of recycling has been set at this time.

We want to let our listeners know that some time around 10:00am our station will be taken off the air for adjustments to the tower we use.  We don’t expect the interruption to take long.

And Senator Joe Scarnati will hold constituent hours for Lewis Run residents at the borough office Thursday from 10:00m to 11:00am.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…all was quiet according to our checks with state police in our listening area. There were no related incidences to report either.

Harassment charges were filed yesterday against an Olean woman after Katie Deitze, 29, stopped by a Canfield Hollow residence where Samantha Forte and her family were moving out.  Deitze, according to Kane PSP, stopped by the location several times.

Criminal trespass in under investigation by troopers from the Ridgway barracks after an unknown person entered a camp owned by Joseph Bosman of Springdale .  No items were apparently removed.

Harassment at the Ulysses playground on Sunday was investigated by Coudersport based state police after a 4 year old reportedly struck a 13 year old.

A hit and run on Dingman Run Road on Saturday or Sunday is being investigated by Coudersport based state police.  They tell WQRM Roy Thompson phoned the barracks to tell them someone hit his fence during that time, causing about $500.00 in damage.  Those with details about the incident are asked to contact state police.

Harassment in Austin on Sunday has a Germansville, PA woman in trouble with troopers after Barbara Smith, 63, was involved in a verbal altercation with 67 year old Maureen Padilla of Austin around noon .  During the altercation Smith reportedly kneed the victim in the abdomen and shoved her against a table.  Charges were filed.

No charges were filed against a Galeton man after an apparent mix up Saturday at Tom’s Deer Processing.  State police state that Joe Lancaster, 37, of Galeton arrived at Tom’s Deer Processing where he proceeded to load wood from that location.  It was later determined that there was a miscommunication over the wood.

A grass fire just before 5:30pm yesterday was responded to by Star Home company firefighters.  The fire got out of control while a property owner was burning a pile of wooden planks.  Personnel were on the scene for approximately 20 minutes.

As of yesterday afternoon, an escapee from new York was still wanted by authorities.  Ralph Philips, 43, is now also wanted in connection with the shooting of an officer over the weekend in Chemung County.  Philips has been wanted since early April when he escaped from the Alden Correctional Facility.  The officer, Trooper Sean Brown, was stopping a green mustang along Parrott Road when shots were fired toward him and officer Donald Will by someone authorities believe to be Philips.  As of yesterday, Brown was listed in fair condition.

Bridges TV can now be seen by Buffalo customers of Adelphia.  Headquartered in Orchard Park, Bridges TV is an Islamic channel previously only available to those with premium channels.  Bridges TV is also available in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Massachusetts.  The channel, launched in 2004, will reach over 130,000 homes in Erie and Niagara Counties.  Time Warner and Comcast may opt to drop the channel upon their take-over of Adelphia.

And James M. Stitt of Olean was recently named to the position of VP of Cutco Cutlery Corporation in Olean.  Stitt joined Cutco in 1997 as an engineer of process control and quality assurance.  Before that he worked in Ohio for Honda of America.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…Kane troopers responded to an accident along Route 6, 3/10 of a mile east of Wetmore Township Friday evening.  A 17 year old female was operating a 2003 Ford Explorer westbound when the vehicle left the roadway, crossed Route 6 and spun counterclockwise.  It then left Route 6 and rolled one time before coming to rest and leaving the driver with minor injuries.

Burglary at a Mount Jewett woman’s home early this morning was investigated by Kane based state police.  Matthew Skinner, 19, of Mount Jewett was charged with the crime after he reportedly entered property owned by Karen Bernecky around 4:00am.  A physical altercation ensued before Skillen fled.

Theft from DCNR at the intersection of Routes 155 and 120 in Shippen Township occurred some time Saturday or Sunday as someone took a Smokey Bear sign valued at $200.00.  Those with information are asked to contact state police in Emporium.

Burglary from an oak Street residence in Force is being investigated by Ridgway based state police.  They tell WQRM someone cut a hole in a door to gain entry into the Michaeline Tesauro residence on Thursday or Friday.  The investigation continues and anyone with information is asked to contact state police or Elk county Crimestoppers.

A St. Marys man was cited for operating an ATV on a street or highway.  Twenty year old Tyler Howard was seen by Ridgway PSP around 10:00pm operating an ATV on Laurel Run in Fox Township.

A one vehicle accident on the Wykoff Run Road last Wednesday was responded to by Coudersport based state police after 8:00pm.  They tell us Ryan Gooch, 30, of Coudersport was traveling north.  While rounding a curve at a high rate of speed his 2004 Ford F-150’s tires left the roadway.  Attempting to steer back on to the roadway, he over-corrected, sending him across both lanes of travel and into an embankment.  At that time, Gooch’s passenger, 32 year old Benjamin Russell of Coudersport was ejected through an open door.  Russell slid across Wykoff Road and into the northbound lane, while Gooch continued north in the vehicle before impacting the embankment again.  Russell was life-flighted to Altoona, while Gooch was taken for treatment by a private vehicle.  Charges are pending.

Theft from an Austin business on Tuesday is under investigation by Coudersprot PSP after someone pumped just over 3 gallons of gas before fleeing.  Those with information are asked to contact state police.

Timmy Scully, 45, of Bloomfield, NY was the victim of a reported theft according to our checks with state police in Coudersport.  Some time between the 1^st and last Tuesday someone damaged several windshields on vehicles on Scully’s property along the Genesee Mills Road, Bingham Township.  The investigation continues.

Connie’s Market in Ulysses was nearly entered by unknown person on Monday or Tuesday of last week as those involved tried unsuccessfully to pry open a wooden door.  The investigation continues.

A McKees Rocks man’s season residence along Route 555 in Benezette Township was illegally entered in late May as someone took around $200.00 in items from a camp owned by Robert Powers.  Ridgway based state police investigated.

Escapee Ralph Philips, who walked away from the Erie County correctional facility is early April is wanted by authorities for questioning in a shooting which occurred Saturday in Veteran, which is in Chemung County, NY.  During a stop, troopers pulled behind a green Ford Mustang.  While approaching the car, shots were fired at the troopers.  One troopers, Sean Brown from the Montour Falls station, was hit in the abdomen and later taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Elmira, where he was listed in fair condition as of Saturday.  The driver of the mustang later fleld and possibly stole a Chevrolet puck-up, with a registration of CYL5410.

Checking the PennDOT schedule for this week…bridge work will be done on Route 146, Red Mill Brook road.  Ditching is planned for Big Shanty Road and cracking sealing will be done on Route 6 from Hazel Hurst to Mount Jewett along with Route 44, Ceres to Shinglehouse.  Work planned is weather pending.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…a Kane woman was not seriously injured in an accident along Lamont Road in Highland Township yearly yesterday morning.  Ridgway based state police state that Michelle Gilmore, 39, of Kane was operating a 2002 Ford Explorer northbound when she exited the east side of Route 948 while negotiating a curve.  Her vehicle re-entered the roadway, crossed it and hit several small trees after crossing the west side of the roadway.  Gilmore was taken to Elk Regional for treatment of her moderate injuries.  Charges for nor driving at a safe speed were filed.

Kane based state police tell us Gerald Kite, 66, of Austin was the victim of a reported theft some time between the 1^st and yesterday.  According to PSP, someone removed a Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower from the front porch of his camp along Irish Hollow Road.

An apparent homicide-suicide is being investigated by Foster Township police after Lauren and Sala Dart died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds.  Police were called to the Dart residence just after 10:00am after someone noticed a note on the Dart’s front door.  The husband was apparently involved in health insurance fraud several years ago, according to a report in today’s Bradford Era.

The City of Bradford will receive a grant for recycling worth nearly $24,000.  Funds were for efforts 2 years ago.

Customers of the Bradford post office should find alternate parking beginning next Monday.  Depending on the weather, the customer parking lot will be renovated, with work to be completed in about a week, according to the Bradford postmaster.

On the traffic and accident scene overnight and yesterday…a 2 vehicle accident yesterday was investigated by state police from the Ridgway barracks.  Just after 8:00am Michael Majot, 45, of Austin was traveling south in a 1988 Lincoln when he failed to observe Normal Reed, 72, of Emporium in a 2003 Ford Sedan, who was stopped in the southbound lane for a stopped school bus.  Majot’s vehicle hit the rear of Reed’s car at that time.  Reed was taken to Elk Regional for treatment, while Majot was cited for the incident.

Public drunkenness by a Port Allegany man was investigated by Kane troopers after 25 year old Ryan Abbott was found lying on Pine Grove Road in a highly intoxicated state.  He was cited for the incident.

Attempted suicide by an Arnold, Pa man was investigated by Ridgway PSP yesterday when a 27 year old attempted to cut his neck with a disposable razor just before 1:00am

A Kersey resident was cited for having an ATV on the roadway when Ridgway troopers stopped 29 year old Joseph Martell along Skyline Drive in Dagus Mines, Fox Township.

Criminal mischief by unknown person is being investigated by Ridgway PSP after an incident over the past week where someone damaged the windshield of a 1994 Dodge Truck owned by Albert Fredrickson of Dagus Mines.  Those with information on this incident are asked to contact Ridgway PSP.

A 6 year old male driving an ATV was fatally wounded Tuesday on Bingham Road, Lafayette Township when he rolled the vehicle.  He was transported to Bradford Regional where he was pronounced dead.  According to a report in today’s Bradford Era, the victim was Devon Dupont of Lewis Run.