|
March 31, 2010
Jury Selection Begins for Blair County Homicide Trial Chris Forshey
Jury selection begins today in a high-profile Blair County murder trial.
20-year-old Sean Louis Allen is accused of killing Penn State Altoona student Maggie Davis last March. Prosecutors and defense attorneys will chose from a jury poll of 500 Blair County residents – which will be whittled down to 12 jurors and several alternates.
State Police charged Allen with killing Davis after using text message evidence that showed the two had communicated shortly before she died. Police found Davis’s body in the trunk of her car in the parking lot of an apartment complex next to Allen’s on Lower Brush Mountain Road two days later. Prosecutors say they have substantial evidence connecting Allen to Davis. Allen is facing life in prison if convicted on first-degree murder charges.
The trial is set to get underway on April 5th.
Man Dead in Standoff with Troopers Chris Forshey
A man is dead following a standoff with State Police in Northern Bedford County.
The shooting happened around 1:15PM Tuesday at a home along Yellow Creek Drive in Hopewell. State Police say a trooper shot and killed 67-year-old Chester Guyton after he pointed a weapon at police. Guyton was pronounced dead at the scene by Bedford County Coroner Sam Gordon.
Troopers first responded to Guyton’s home after getting a call about the welfare of a male at the residence. Troopers negotiated with Guyton for nearly two hours before the shooting.
State Police in Bedford will hold a news conference later today to release more details in the case.
Blair Board: Give Trash Tipping Fees Back to Customers Chris Forshey
The Blair County Commissioners say they would like to see some local trash haulers reimburse their customers for illegal tipping fees collected over the last few years.
The issue stems from a lawsuit that recent made its way to the State Supreme Court. The justices sided with Blair County Judge Dan Milliron, who ruled that the tipping fees collected by the county from Waste Management and Burgmeiers Hauling transfer stations over the past several years were illegal.
The county is returning nearly a half-million dollars to the companies. Commissioner Diane Meling says she would like to see some of that money go back to the hauler’s customers because the additional costs were ultimately passed on to them.
Meling
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsmeling033110.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
The commissioners say they aren’t trying to tell companies how to run their businesses, but they are looking out for their residents. The county isn’t out any money because it’s been kept in an escrow account. Interest from the money was used to support local recycling and composting programs.
Blair Gets $15,000 for Permit System Upgrade Chris Forshey
Blair County is receiving $15,000 from the state make changes to the way the county processes gun permits.
Sheriff Mitch Cooper told county leaders Tuesday that the money from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will be used to purchase new hardware and software used in issuing the permits. Cooper says the state is trying to standardize the system and get every county on the same system.
Cooper
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newscooper033110.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Cooper says his office will now begin to review systems on the market for purchase. He says if all goes well, the system could be functional within the next 90 days.
More Charges Filed Against Former PA Water Worker Chris Forshey/AP
The former head of a western Pennsylvania water plant already fired after charges that he stole $58,000 in copper piping is now charged with embezzling $79,000 from Northern Cambria's two water authorities.
Forty-nine-year-old David Suchar waived his right to a preliminary hearing on both sets of charges Monday. Suchar was fired by Northern Cambria in October when the pipe theft charges were filed. The new embezzlement charges, filed Monday, stem from a recent audit of the authority's books.
Suchar and his Altoona attorney, Thomas Dickey, have not commented on the charges. Another worker at the same water plant is charged with faking water safety tests by providing samples from the plant's sink instead of customers' faucets.
Specter Wins AFL-CIO Endorsement for U.S. Senate Chris Forshey/AP
The Pennsylvania AFL-CIO is endorsing Arlen Specter as he seeks a Pennsylvania record sixth term in the U.S. Senate.
The executive council of the organized labor federation met Tuesday in a suburban Harrisburg hotel to take a closed-door vote.
Specter and his principal opponent in the Democratic primary, U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak, met separately with the group before the vote. Specter won 34 out of 43 votes, or better than the two-thirds necessary to win the endorsement. Specter also won the group's endorsement in his last campaign in 2004, before he switched from Republican to Democrat.
The AFL-CIO is not endorsing a Republican candidate in the Senate primary contest.
March 30, 2010
Logan Official: Burn Responsibly Chris Forshey
With the return of 70-degree temperatures this weekend Logan Township officials are cautioning residents against the dangers of burning trash and rubbish outdoors.
Blair County fire crews have already responded to several brush fires during two warm spells this month. Supervisor Jim Patterson says while residents can burn on designated days, it’s also good to practice common sense when doing so.
Patterson
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newspatterson033010.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Patterson says homeowners can be held liable for firefighting costs of their fire gets out of control. He says residents can also take their yard waste to the Blair County composting site on the Buckhorn and discard it.
Officials say once the vegetation turns green the risk of fire diminishes.
Local Airport Ends Contract With Fixed-Based Operator Craig Schaffer
Change is coming to a local airport.
As a result of a Monday night vote, the Altoona-Blair County Airport Authority will break ties with its fixed-based operator Penn-Air.
The move to end the relationship with Penn-Air comes just two weeks after the authority announced they wanted to expand negotiations with the company.
The authority also wants to set the wheels in motion for in-house sales of small aircraft fuel, something Penn-Air had been handling. It’s being reported that recentlythe airport has had a minimal amount of fuel available for small planes. The way Penn-Air has been handling fuel sales at the airport was a factor in the board’s decision to terminate their contract.
The authority will immediately advertise for a new fixed-based operator.
Jury Selection Nears For Blair County Murder Trial.........cds...03-30-10
As jury selection is about to begin for a Blair County murder trial, a judge rules that the prosecution will be allowed to introduce evidence of a “sexual event” in the case.
The body of 20 year old Margo Davis was found March 2nd of last year in the trunk of her car near her Lower Brush Mountain Road residence.
The man going to trial for the murder is 20 year old Sean Allen. The Blair County District Attorney’s office says there is substantial evidence against Allen.
As for the ruling Monday concerning the “sexual event”, the defense had argued that the prosecution can’t be specific about the time of death, so introducing evidence of sexual contact between Allen and Davis would be unfair and inflammatory. Allen is charged with criminal homicide but not with any sexually-related offenses.
Jury selection begins Wednesday at the Blair County Courthouse; testimony is expected to begin on April 5.
PA House Democrats Raised Staff Pay Despite Freeze Chris Forshey/AP
Pennsylvania House Democratic leaders are explaining why some top staffers got hefty salary increases late last year and others received raises after a pay freeze took effect on January 1st.
The Patriot-News of Harrisburg reported Sunday that House Speaker Keith McCall's chief of staff Paul Parsells received a nearly $19,000 pay increase and Parliamentarian Reizdan Moore's salary was boosted by about $3,900.
That's in addition to a dozen House Democratic staffers who received pay raises after a "salary control" freeze on annual merit pay increases took effect in January. House Majority Leader Todd Eachus says those 12 raises were mistakes but he's letting the recipients keep them.
The newspaper says House Democrats resisted requests to release the details, and it took the paper six weeks to obtain the information.
Hoeffel Hits Corbett for Joining in Lawsuit Chris Forshey/AP
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Joe Hoeffel is accusing state Attorney General Tom Corbett of colluding with his counterparts to challenge the newly signed national health-care overhaul.
Hoeffel said at a Capitol news conference Monday that he's not saying Corbett - the front-runner for the Republican nomination for governor - did anything illegal by joining a lawsuit supported by the attorneys general in 13 states.
But the former congressman said Corbett has sided with 10 of the other prosecutors on three cases involving gun control and consumer protection. Corbett said last week he joined the health-care lawsuit because he believes the law threatens individual liberties and infringes on states' rights.
Corbett’s spokesman has not commented on Hoeffel’s accusations.
Troopers Enforcing Steer Clear Law Chris Forshey
With the return of the warmer weather PennDOT and the Pennsylvania State Police are reminding motorists about the state’s Steer Clear Law.
The 2006 law requires motorists to move into the other lane and slow down when approaching a police officer, construction vehicle or tow truck operator along the side of the highway. Troopers converged on Interstate 99 to enforce the law on Monday.
Officials say most motorists don’t obey the law. A ticket for violating the Steer Clear Law could set you back $100.
Florida Woman says Steeler Attacked Her in Nightclub Chris Forshey/AP
Another Pittsburgh Steeler is facing some legal trouble. A Florida woman is suing Santonio Holmes, saying he attacked her in an Orlando nightclub.
Anshonoe Mills claims in the lawsuit that Holmes grabbed her face and threw a drink at her face when he objected to her sitting on a couch in the Rain Night Club's VIP section on March 7th. Mills says the glass cut her near the eye. The lawsuit also claims Holmes and a police officer intimidated Mills so she wouldn't press charges.
Orlando Police Sergeant Barbara Jones hadn't seen the lawsuit and couldn't comment. Steeler’s spokesman Dave Lockett said team officials were gathering information and had no immediate comment.
March 29, 2010
Fatal Vehicle/Pedestrian Accident Still Under Investigation Craig Schaffer
The investigation into a fatal vehicle/pedestrian accident in Blair County continues.
According to information released by the Allegheny Township Police Department, the crash occurred on Carson Valley Road just east of the Longview Drive intersection around 4:50 Friday afternoon.
The victim, 55 year old Paul Cochran Senior, of Duncansville, had legally parked his pickup truck and flatbed trailer along Carson Valley Road and had exited the vehicle to look at another vehicle that was for sale and was also legally parked off the road.
Police say a male juvenile lost control of his pickup truck and struck Cochran’s trailer and continued on to strike Cochran and the vehicle he was looking at.
Cochran was transported to Altoona Regional Trauma Center where he later died.
The investigation continues with the assistance of the state police and the Blair County District Attorney’s office.
Anyone with information regarding the accident is encouraged to call the Allegheny Township Police Department at 695-3333.
Drug Charges Possible Against Blair Man And Woman Following Traffic Stop Last Week Craig Schaffer
Details have been released concerning a traffic stop last week that may result in serious charges for an Altoona man and Tyrone woman.
State Police out of Ebensburg report that on Wednesday afternoon a car driven by 27 year old Jonathan Shuster was pulled over on State Route 22 at Mini-Mall Road. Shuster was stopped for summary traffic violations but he was found to be under the influence of a controlled substance. After failing field sobriety tests, he was taken into custody.
Heroin and related drug paraphernalia were recovered from the vehicle and from Shuster and 27 year old Sarah Glunt, a passenger in the vehicle.
The investigation continues pending lab results of the seized drugs.
Bishop Guilfoyle Claims Another Girls A Title Craig Schaffer
A third win this season over a District 6 rival over the weekend gave Bishop Guilfoyle a third PIAA title in four years.
Alli Williams paced unbeaten Guilfoyle Saturday with 16 points and 14 rebounds to take another Class A crown by defeated Northern Cambria 49-29.
Janae Dunchack had 12 points for Northern Cambria in the game played at the Bryce Jordon Center.
Guilfoyle led by 17 at halftime and cruised from there before receiving another title trophy.
TV Ads Could Enliven Democratic Race For Governor Craig Schaffer/AP
The last time Pennsylvania's governorship was up for grabs, the Democratic candidates seemed larger than life.
There was now-Gov. Ed Rendell, credited with saving Philadelphia from financial ruin and outgoing general chairman of the Democratic National Committee, and Bob Casey, the former governor's son following in his father's footsteps.
But this year's languid contest for the Democratic nomination lacks those ingredients.
Barely seven weeks before voters cast ballots, the appeal of the candidates remains largely regional. The Democratic hopefuls are Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato and state Auditor General Jack Wagner, both from Pittsburgh, and Montgomery County Commissioner Joe Hoeffel and state Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams from the southeastern corner of the state.
A Franklin & Marshall College poll released this week said 71 percent of Democrats have not settled on a favorite to take on the winner of the GOP contest between state Attorney General Tom Corbett and state Rep. Sam Rohrer.
Pa. Global Warming Researcher Calls Self 'Skeptic' Craig Schaffer/AP
A Penn State University climate scientist says he regrets that he did not immediately object when a colleague suggested deleting e-mails on global warming.
Meteorology professor Michael Mann tells The Morning Call of Allentown that he considered the idea in the May 2008 message inappropriate.
A three-member Penn State panel concluded Feb. 3 that Mann did not delete e-mails and found no basis for two other allegations, but ordered further investigation of a general misconduct allegation. Mann has denied any wrongdoing.
Mann also says some people who challenge global warming are not real skeptics but contrarians or even "deniers." He says he is a skeptic because he wants to see scientific claims challenged. He says scientists have reached a consensus that civilization faces serious problems if carbon dioxide emissions are not reduced.
More Threats Since Health Care Overhaul Vote Craig Schaffer/AP
A spokeswoman for U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy says the Pennsylvania congressman has received threats since voting for the health care overhaul bill.
Kate Hansen told the Philadelphia Inquirer on Friday that the Democratic congressman has been the target of threats since the House voted for sweeping health reform last Sunday. She says neither Murphy's home nor his district offices have been vandalized.
Hansen says the threats are being investigated by the FBI and the Capitol Police. She declined to divulge details of the threats.
More than 10 Democrats have reported harassment, including incidents involving at least four of their offices in New York, Arizona and Kansas. An undisclosed number of lawmakers have been given increased police protection.
March 26, 2010
Mills Takes Oath of Office Chris Forshey
Altoona’s newest city councilman has been sworn into office.
City Clerk Linda Rickens-Schellhammer administered the oath to Jan Mills during a small ceremony at city hall Thursday. Council appointed Mills to the board in a 4-2 vote Wednesday – he’ll replace Jason Ibrahim who died unexpectedly last month.
Mills says he’s just ready to get to work – especially with helping the city navigate through some of its financial difficulties.
Mills
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsmills032610.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Mills says he also looks forward to working with his new colleagues. The longtime Altoona resident had campaigned twice for mayor – both in 1987 and 2009, but was unsuccessful in both bids. He’ll serve on the board through January 2012.
Logan Appoints New Tax Collector Chris Forshey
Logan Township has a new tax collector.
Township supervisors voted 5-0 Thursday night to appoint Ron DiFrango to the position. The 67-year-old DiFrango has lived in Logan Township since 1977 and spent nearly 40 years working with the Veteran’s Administration Hospital – most recently as chief financial officer.
DiFrango says his finance background will allow him to step right into the job and get started.
DiFrango
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsdifrango032610.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Supervisor Jim Patterson called DiFrango the most qualified out of the 12 applicants.
Patterson
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newspatterson032610.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
DiFrango says he hopes to have the office opened within the next week.
Half-Acre Parcel May Land Logan a Cash Windfall Chris Forshey
Logan Township officials say they plan to sell a parcel of land that could generate some serious cash.
Solicitor Larry Clapper says the township’s board just recently found out that they owned the half-acre piece of land off Amelia Avenue near Logan Town Centre.
Clapper
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsclapper032610.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Clapper says several developers have shown an interest in the property. The township will seek bids over the next few months with plans to sell it before summer.
Altoona Food Bank Gets $5,000 Chris Forshey
A local natural gas company has made a generous contribution to the Altoona Food Bank.
The Dominion Foundation presented a check for $5,000 to group on Thursday. The grant is specifically designated for helping community groups during challenging economic times. Food bank officials say in the past year more people have been relying on their services. The number of people that need help is up by 10-percent over 2009.
Dominion gave $70,000 in contributions to Pennsylvania food banks last year.
Good Samaritan Honored for Helping to Catch Alleged Robber Chris Forshey
A good Samaritan has been honored for helping Altoona Police catch a robbery suspect.
Crime Solvers of Blair County presented a cash reward on Thursday to the anonymous person who identified 32-year-old Christopher Jackson from a surveillance video taken during a robbery at Thompson’s Broad Avenue Pharmacy in February.
The information led to the arrest of Jackson, who is from Williamsburg. Police officials say without the willingness of the public to come forward with information many more crimes could remain unsolved.
Street Sweeping Begins Next Week Chris Forshey
Street sweeping begins Sunday night in Altoona.
Public works director Dave Dietrich says most over the work will be done during the overnight hours. And Dietrich says the city will begin by sweeping the Snow Emergency routes first.
Dietrich
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsdietrich032610.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Dietrich is also urging city residents to avoid putting trash and other rubbish on the street for the sweeper to pickup.
Bonusgate Hearing Delayed Amid Corbett Allegations Craig Schaffer/AP
A newspaper reports that former state Rep. Steve Stetler's scheduled hearing today on corruption charges has been postponed so Attorney General Tom Corbett can respond to court documents alleging prosecutorial misconduct.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that the attorney for Stetler, and former state Rep. Brett Feese, wants criminal charges dropped against both men and wants Corbett's office barred from prosecuting their cases.
Attorney Joshua Lock alleges that Corbett used public money to campaign for governor and for re-election as attorney general even as his office was investigating similar conduct by others including Stetler and Feese.
Corbett spokesman Kevin Harley says when you don't have a plausible defense, you accuse your accuser.
Stetler and Feese are among 25 charged in the ongoing government corruption investigation known as Bonusgate.
Rep. Dahlkemper Receives Threats Over Health Bill Chris Forshey/AP
Pennsylvania Democratic Congresswoman Kathy Dahlkemper says her office has received threats following the passage of health care legislation.
Dahlkemper says one threatening letter was sent to the Armstrong County Commissioner's office, where she holds constituent office hours. She says the district attorney filed a report.
Dahlkemper says most communications can't be sourced, but the majority are from outside her district. A spokeswoman says the office hasn't been keeping count, but estimated they're in double digits. One E-mail - in all capital letters - said: "Your names will be blotted from history and your offspring will suffer. It is written."
At least 10 Congress members have reported getting some sort of threat.
Families of Flight 93 Say Memorial is on Track Chris Forshey/AP
Families of those killed on United Airlines Flight 93 say plans for a national memorial at the September 11th crash site in southwestern Pennsylvania are on track.
The group Families of Flight 93 told a House Appropriations panel Thursday that continued federal funding and other support is needed so the memorial's first phase can open on the 10th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
The initial phase represents most of the memorial's expense and will cost $58 million. About $30-million of that is to come from private contributions. Flight 93 was traveling from Newark, N.J., to San Francisco when hijackers took it over, apparently with the goal of crashing it into the White House or Capitol.
The passengers fought back, and the hijackers crashed the plane into a field instead.
March 25, 2010
Mills Appointed to City Council Chris Forshey
Outrage at Altoona City Council Wednesday night after formal mayoral candidate Jan Mills was selected to fill a vacant seat on the board.
Council voted 4-2 to appoint Mills to the seat left vacant by the death of Jason Ibrahim, despite Ibrahim’s widow and campaign supporters backing of another candidate –Michael Haire. Both Mills and Haire ran for election in November, but neither won a seat. They were among nine applicants who applied for the position.
Seventeen supporters of Haire spoke to council saying Haire best represents everything Ibrahim stood for. The decision to select Mills angered Ibrahim supporters, including Ann Zelnoski.
Zelnoski
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newszelnoski032510.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Councilman Erik Cagle supported Mills, saying both candidates were equally qualified.
Cagel
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newscagle032510.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Mills will be sworn into his new seat at a ceremony scheduled for 2:00PM today at Altoona City Hall.
Police Investigating Heroin Overdose Death Chris Forshey
Altoona Police are looking for the source of the heroin that killed an East Freedom man inside a city motel room early Wednesday morning.
Emergency medical personnel and city police were dispatched to the Super 8 Motel on Fairway Drive around 12:30AM after a man and a woman overdosed on heroin. Blair County Coroner Patty Ross says the victim, 44-year-old Kevin Socie, was pronounced dead at the scene. Ross says a second victim – identified only as woman Socie was staying with at the motel room -- was revived and taken to Altoona Hospital.
Court records show Socie has faced drug charges in the past. Police are looking for possible connections between the victims and other drug suspects known to them. It’s the second time this month that police are dealing with a deadly heroin case. Authorities found a 21-year-old city woman dead from a heroin overdose in a Whenwood Sheetz bathroom on March 8th.
Mayor: City Will Enforce Tow List as its Written Chris Forshey
Altoona City Police will enforce the city’s towing ordinance as it’s written.
Mayor Bill Schirf says the city has reached an agreement with local towers that does away with subcontractors. That means the city’s priority tow list should rotate more often – especially when the call involves an accident.
Schirf
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsschirf032510.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Schirf says it’s all a matter of public safety. He says council will revisit the issue a few months from now if the changes are not working.
Blair Moving Closer to One Tax Collection Agency Chris Forshey
Blair County is moving closer to having a central tax collection agency.
Act 32, which was passed by state lawmakers in 2007, mandates one tax collector per county that will collect and process the earned income tax. Altoona controller A.C. Stickel told council Wednesday night that officials hope to be up and running by the 2012 deadline.
Stickel
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsstickel032510.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Stickel says the group will start with one centralized office likely in the city and then look at possible satellite collection locations. He says if all goes well, the office could be up and running in January 2011.
Police: Driver Pulled Gun on Centre County Senator’s Son Chris Forshey
Police in Centre County say an aggressive driver pulled a gun on the son of State Senator John Wozniak.
The incident happened last week along East College Avenue in College Township. Authorities say 26-year-old Shawn Meeker allegedly pointed a handgun at Michael Wozniak after Wozniak reportedly cut him off. Police say the incident was a random road rage incident and was not politically motivated.
Meeker has waived his right to a preliminary hearing and he remains jailed on $75,000 bail.
Poll Shows Voters Not Surprised with Actions of Lawmakers Chris Forshey
A new poll shows voters are not all that surprised at the public corruption allegations coming out of Harrisburg.
The Franklin & Marshall College poll out Wednesday shows 67-percent of the state’s registered voters weren’t surprised that former Democratic State Representative Mike Veon was convicted on public corruption charges.
Those surveyed feel the only different between Veon and other state lawmakers is that Veon was the one who got caught. The poll also shows that 58-percent of voters feel that politicians are not listening to their constituents and that the state is moving in a bad direction.
More than 1,100 voters participated in the poll, which has a margin error of plus or minus 3-percent.
March 24, 2010
Coroner Called To Local Hotel Craig Schaffer
The Blair County Coroner was called out overnight to an Altoona motel.
Just after 12:30am EMS crews and police responded to a call at the Super 8 motel located at 3535 Fairway Drive. Altoona police tell WRTA News that there were two drug overdose cases at the hotel with one fatality being reported.
There are no other details available at this time but the police are investigating the incident. We’ll have more on this story as information becomes available.
Altoona Woman Pleads Not Guilty to Massachusetts Baby Kidnapping Chris Forshey
An Altoona woman has pleaded not guilty to kidnapping her 13-month-old niece last month in Massachusetts.
Alyssa Dawn Johnson was ordered held on $250,000 cash bail at her arraignment Tuesday in Fall River District Court. Johnson has said she wasn't in Massachusetts on February 18th, when she is accused of taking Jaylin Boudria, her half-sister's child. Jaylin was found unharmed a few hours later in a Connecticut parking lot.
Police say Johnson allegedly drove away with Jaylin when the girl's mother went into a gas station in Swansea. The 38-year-old Johnson, who also uses the first name Kimberly, was arrested February 22nd while staying at an Altoona women's shelter. Authorities said she had used an alias and a stolen ID.
Johnson faces a pretrial hearing on April 22nd.
Award Offered for Wanted Fugitive Chris Forshey
Authorities in Blair County need your help in finding a wanted fugitive – and they are now offering a reward for information that leads to his arrest.
Twenty-six year-old Cornelius Andrews was scheduled to be sentenced on drug charges in January, but he’s been on the run. His last listed address was Solomon Homes in Johnstown. A jury convicted Andrews last year and he was free on $175,000 bail awaiting his January 12th sentencing.
A Johnstown caterer put up his $450,000 home as a property bond to get Andrews out of jail until then. A Blair County judge gave prosecutors the authority to seize the home earlier this month.
If you have any information on Andrew’s whereabouts, you’re urged to contact Blair County Crime Solvers or your local police department.
Solution to Altoona’s Towing Ordinance Complaints? Chris Forshey
There appears to be a resolution to the City of Altoona’s ongoing towing dispute.
City council plans to discuss the issue at Wednesday’s bi-monthly meeting. Mayor Bill Schirf says there is a solution that should work for all companies that tow vehicles within the city limits.
City police met last Wednesday with several Altoona area towing companies who claimed the city gave unfair business advantages to a towing company working for AAA – instead of following a next available list established by ordinance in 2002. WRTA News had requested access to the meeting, but was denied by city manager Joe Weakland who said we were not permitted to attend. Even members of city council were kept out.
City council began addressing the problem last month after several towing company representatives went in front of council to voice their concerns.
$29-Billion Budget Bill Passes PA House, Heads to Senate Chris Forshey/AP
Governor Ed Rendell's $29-billion budget is on its way to the Senate where Republicans are expected to advocate a substantially lower spending amount.
The Democratic budget bill passed the House on Tuesday, 107-89. The vote arrived 100 days before the new fiscal year begins, as legislators try to show that they're serious about delivering a budget on time.
However, the vote is a preliminary step in what could be a long, tough negotiation. The bill would increase spending by about 4-percent and would require no increase in any broad-based taxes. It will rely on about $3-billion in federal budget aid, including some that Congress is expected to approve.
But the state's tax collections are running behind expectations this year and Republicans say cutbacks are needed.
Rendell Makes One Last Push for I-80 Tolls Chris Forshey/AP
Governor Ed Rendell is making a last minute push for putting tolls on Interstate 80.
Rendell met with U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray Lahood on Tuesday to discuss the ongoing issue. Transportation officials say a decision on Rendell’s request could come within the next month. Rendell had requested the meeting because he wanted to talk with regulators about the proposal just ahead of their decision.
The governor and state Democrats are pushing for the tolls so the state can raise revenue for road and bridge repairs. But state Republicans have been fighting the request, saying it will kill future business opportunities along the corridor and financially penalize those who live near Interstate 80.
Corbett Says Justice Done with Veon Verdict Chris Forshey/AP
Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett says he feels justice was done in the verdicts against former Representative Mike Veon and his three co-defendants, and that more charges are possible in his office's public corruption investigation.
Corbett said Tuesday that Veon was found guilty in seven of the 11 alleged criminal episodes for which he was charged. Corbett says he hopes the Veon verdict will give Pennsylvanians more faith in their state government.
Corbett
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newscorbett032410.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Jurors late Monday convicted Veon and former House Democratic aides Annamarie Perretta-Rosepink and Brett Cott of some of the theft, conspiracy and conflict-of-interest charges they faced.
They acquitted the three of dozens of other charges they faced and found the other defendant, Steve Keefer, not guilty of all charges.
13 Attorneys General Sue Over Health Care Overhaul Chris Forshey/AP
Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett says he's joined a legal challenge to the constitutionality of the new federal health-care law because he says he believes the government shouldn't be forcing people to buy health insurance.
Corbett said Tuesday the new law threatens individual liberties and infringes on the rights of states. Corbett is among 13 state attorneys general to file a lawsuit against the new legislation within minutes of it being signed by President Barack Obama. Corbett, a Republican, is running for governor.
State Democratic Party Chairman T.J. Rooney criticized Corbett, saying it is wrong for him to use the office of attorney general for political posturing. He says Corbett is siding with insurance companies over the people who will get health insurance as a result of the bill.
Request For Roethlisberger DNA Withdrawn In Ga Craig Schaffer/AP
An attorney for Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger says the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has withdrawn a request for a DNA sample from the player who is accused of sexually assaulting a woman at a nightclub.
Ed Garland told The Associated Press Tuesday night that officials withdrew the request a week ago. He declined to comment on why.
The two-time Super Bowl champion has not been charged. A 20-year-old college student told police he assaulted her on March 5 in a Milledgeville club.
Garland would not say whether the decision impacted the case or if charges would be filed. He said he hopes GBI's investigation would conclude within the next month.
Pa. Deer Harvest Drops To Lowest Level Since 1987 Craig Schaffer/AP
Deer hunters in Pennsylvania bagged the lowest number of deer in the commonwealth since 1987, according to state figures.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission says hunters killed an estimated 308,920 deer during the 2009-10 deer season, an 8 percent drop from the season before. The record low was 300,014 deer taken in 1986-87.
The agency's chief deer biologist, Chris Rosenberry, declined to speculate on the reason for the low total.
But Stephen Mohr, president of Unified Sportsmen of Pennsylvania, called the current deer management program "fatally flawed." His group has filed suit accusing the commission of mismanaging the deer population.
Commission officials say they are trying to correct decades of mismanagement allowing too many deer that degraded the state's forests. An independent review last month cited pluses and minuses but called the program generally "sound."
March 23, 2010
Altoona Woman To Face Kidnapping Charge In MA Craig Schaffer/AP
An Altoona woman has been returned to Massachusetts to face charges that she abducted her 13-month-old niece last month.
38 year old Alyssa Dawn Johnson was transported from Balir County Prison to Fall River District Court last night for arraignment this morning on a charge of kidnapping.
Massachusetts police began seeking Johnson after she allegedly drove away with her half sister's daughter in the car while the baby's mother went into a gas station Feb. 18. Jaylin Boudria was found hours later, unharmed and abandoned in a Middletown, Conn., parking lot.
Johnson, who also uses the first name Kimberly, was arrested Feb. 22 at an Altoona women's shelter, where she had used an alias and a stolen ID.
Nine Vying for Open City Council Seat Chris Forshey
There are nine total candidates in the running for an open seat on Altoona City Council.
The application deadline was March 15th. City council will discuss the applicants at Wednesday’s bi-monthly meeting and plans to have a new member in place by March 28th. Council chose to forgo formal interviews with potential candidates and instead sought applications from interested residents – that was the same process used when Councilman Joe Reiker resigned from his post in 2009.
Eight men and one woman are vying for the position. They include Jim Pruesser, Michael Haire, Jan Mills, Ted Newkirk, Michael Pennington, Michael Lang, Phillip Luciano II, Matthew McCaulley and Lynn Nagle. Preusser, Haire and Mills ran unsuccessfully for terms on council last November.
The candidate city council chooses will fill the term left vacant by the untimely and unexpected death of Councilman Jason Ibrahim late last month.
Wife of Fallen Councilman Backs Haire for Council Post Chris Forshey
The wife of former Altoona City Councilman Jason Ibrahim is throwing her support behind one of her husband’s November challengers.
Elizabeth Ibrahim has sent a letter to Mayor Bill Schirf and members of city council asking them to appoint Michael Haire to fill her husband’s unexpired term on the board. Jason Ibrihim died unexpectedly in late February from an undiagnosed heart condition. Haire had campaigned for one of three open seats on council, but lost to Ibrahim, Councilman David Butterbaugh Jr., and Councilman Bill Neugebauer.
In her letter Elizabeth Ibrahim says Haire earned the respect of his fellow citizens through his hard work, solid principles and commitment to Altoona. Ibrahim says Haire’s vision closely aligns with the vision Altoona residents endorsed when they elected Jason Ibrahim to city council.
Altoona City Council is expected to vote on a new member Wednesday night. The has until March 28th to make an appointment.
AG to Join Challenge to Federal Health Care Bill Chris Forshey/AP
Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett is planning to join a legal challenge to federal health care reform legislation.
Corbett's office said Monday he is working with counterparts in at least 10 other states on a strategy to challenge the constitutionality of the bill.
However, Governor Ed Rendell says such a lawsuit is simply "political grandstanding" and a waste of taxpayer money. President Barack Obama is preparing to sign the bill that passed the U.S. House Sunday night.
It is not clear where the challenge will be filed or what aspect of the bill the suit will challenge. But other attorneys general have said it violates state sovereignty by mandating that all Americans have some form of health insurance.
Jury In Pa. Corruption Case Issues Mixed Verdict Craig Schaffer/AP
A Harrisburg jury has convicted former state lawmaker and two of his former aides of some charges and acquitted them of others - but the panel acquitted a fourth defendant of all charges in the legislative corruption case.
The jury found former Democratic Rep. Mike Veon of Beaver County guilty of 14 of the 59 counts he faced. The panel found former aides Annamarie Perretta-Rosepink guilty of five counts and Brett Cott guilty of three counts.
Former aide Steve Keefer was acquitted of all charges.
The jury verdict comes after nearly six weeks of testimony by dozens of witnesses, many who had been given immunity or struck deals with the prosecution.
The defendants are among 25 people arrested since the attorney general's office began investigating three years ago with the news that millions of dollars in bonuses had been quietly handed out to legislative employees.
Seven people previously pleaded guilty in the case, one was acquitted and 13 are awaiting trial.
PA Senator Introduces Bill to Block Health Insurance Fines Chris Forshey
A Pennsylvania lawmaker is introducing legislation aimed at overriding federal health insurance provisions contained in the controversial health care bill passed Sunday night.
Republican state Senator Mike Folmer says his bill will prevent Pennsylvanians from being charged a fine if they don't get health insurance. Folmer tells WRTA News the legislation is similar to that announced last week in the State of Virginia.
Folmer
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsfolmer032310.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Folmer says he hopes other states work on similar bills and collectively they can send a big message to lawmakers in Washington.
Folmer
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsfolmer32310b.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
30th District State Senator John Eichelberger has signed on as a co-sponsor of the legislation.
‘Fridays on the Plaza’ to Return Chris Forshey
Altoona City officials are gearing up for the return of their popular “Fridays on the Plaza” concerts.
The events return for another season beginning in June – and they will be held on the second and forth Friday’s of June, July and August. Center City Coordinator Bob Scholl said Monday that officials are currently working to book several musical groups. And Scholl says organizers are still looking for more sponsors.
The popular outdoor series began two years ago on Heritage Plaza and d typically draws hundreds of people into Downtown Altoona. Scholl says a news conference will be scheduled for next month to release more information about this year’s events.
Altoona City Addressing Pothole Concerns Chris Forshey
Got a pothole problem?
The City of Altoona wants to know about it. Public works director Dave Dietrich says the mild weather has allowed city work crews to begin fixing some of the bigger potholes along the city’s main arteries. But Dietrich says the city doesn’t always know where the potholes are on the side streets. If you have a pothole problem to report, you can contact the city’s highway yard at 949-2212.
The city is urging residents to be patient until work crews are able to get out and make the repairs.
March 22, 2010
House Sends Health Care Overhaul Bill To Obama Craig Schaffer/AP
A transformative health care bill is headed to President Barack Obama for his signature.
On the cusp of succeeding where numerous past congresses and administrations have failed, jubilant House Democrats voted 219-212 late Sunday to send legislation to Obama that will extend coverage to 32 million uninsured Americans. The legislation's also designed to reduce deficits and ban insurance company practices such as denying coverage to people with pre-existing medical conditions.
9th District Congressman Bill Shuster voted against the health care bill. He announced his opposition through a news release a few hours before the vote saying the bill would put the national debt further into the red.
Shuster admitted there was need for reform that would lowers costs and protect those with pre-existing conditions. But he says that could have been achieved through bipartisan cooperation and a sharing of ideas between the political parties.
Duncansville Man Charged After Weekend Rifle Incident Craig Schaffer
A mix of alcohol and guns resulted in the weekend arrest of a Duncansville man.
According to Altoona police, 37-year-old John Hoover, of 2749 Carson Valley Road, was escorted from the Black and Gold tavern on 6th Avenue a little after 1am Sunday after becoming involved in a physical altercation. From the bar, Hoover made his way to his girlfriend’s home on the 2800 block of 6th Avenue where he proceeded to smash things before leaving the residence with a Winchester 30-30 rifle.
Hoover then pointed the rifle at two men who were nearby in the 5th Avenue alley. When the men saw the gun they fled. Hoover also ran from the scene when he heard police cars coming. He was later located on the 2700 block of 6th Avenue alley and was placed under arrest. Hoover, who didn’t have the rifle when police caught up with him, is accused of discharging the rifle in the neighborhood. The gun was eventually located hidden alongside a residence at 2813 6th Avenue.
Hoover has been charged with simple assault, reckless endangerment, public drunkenness and other related offenses.
Shots Fired In Altoona Craig Schaffer
Altoona police responded to a shots fired complaint in the city a little before 3am Sunday.
The Blair County 911 center received numerous complaints reporting that five shots were fired in the area of 11th Street and 18th Avenue. When police arrived on scene there were unable to locate any injured parties or anyone involved in the incident. In addition, no property damage in the area has been reported.
Police continue to investigate.
Tyrone Woman Facing Charges After Taking Swing At Police Craig Schaffer
A Tyrone woman is facing charges after resisting police efforts to arrest her for public drunkenness.
On Saturday, 44-year old Donna Redman of 815 Tipton Road was found by state troopers to be under the influence of alcohol in public in the area of Cranberry Street Snyder Township. Police say Redman was loud, unruly and shouting profanity. When she was told she was under arrest she took a swing at a police officer.
Redman has been charged with resisting arrest, public drunkenness, and harassment.
Precious Life Leader To Receive Statewide Recognition Craig Schaffer
A local man has been recognized for his leadership in the pro-life movement.
At the 25th annual Precious Life Spring Banquet on Friday evening, it was announced that Scott Mangenella has been chosen to receive the 2010 Pennsylvania Pro-Life Leadership award. Mangenella tells WRTA News that he is only the face of an organization of many people who have earned the award.
Mangenella
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsmangenella032210.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Mangenella will receive his award at a dinner in October at which former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum will be the keynote speaker. Santorum and his wife were recipients of the award in 2007.
$117K in Grants Going to Blandburg Fire Company Craig Schaffer
The Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Department of Homeland Security has awarded $117,325 to an area fire company.
Reade Area Ambulance in Blandburg is receiving the grant money for vehicle acquisition.
Federal funds are awarded through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program which aims to strengthen the Nation’s first responders’ ability to protect the health and safety of the public as well the responders’ themselves.
PA Prison Population Up Despite National Decline Craig Schaffer/AP
Even as the number of people in state prisons across the country has fallen for the first time in almost four decades, Pennsylvania's prison population is on the increase.
A study by the Pew Center on the States says the commonwealth had a 4.3 percent rise in the number of prisoners last year. Across the country, state prisons nationwide held roughly 1.4 million inmates at the beginning of the year. That's 0.4 percent fewer than there were at the end of 2008, and study says it was the first year-to-year drop since 1972.
The center attributed the decline in part to states adopting guidelines reflecting research that low-level offenders and those who have committed technical parole violations are more effectively handled in community programs.
In Pennsylvania, state officials say the inmate population has increased from 8,243 to 51,326 over the past three decades, according to the state Department of Corrections. Adding to the increase was Gov. Rendell's 2008 moratorium on paroles after a paroled felon killed a Philadelphia police officer.
Bonus Case Suggests Questions for PA Lawmakers Craig Schaffer/AP
Incumbent Pennsylvania state lawmakers will be making themselves seen in their home districts over the next couple of months as they campaign to be returned to the Legislature for another term.Voters might want to ask their local state representatives and senators about the three-year-old investigation into legislative campaign practices.
They might ask what rules are in place to make sure employees are not pressured to "volunteer" to work on campaigns, or how often they have sent out mass mailings to people in the district on the taxpayer's dime.
Voters might also want to know whether their lawmakers accept per diems, especially if they do so on the same day they've had a taxpayer-paid meal. And do they think there should be restrictions on hiring relatives to work for the Legislature?
Voters who want to see changes in their General Assembly this year might start by asking a few questions.
March 19, 2010
Seven Arrested in Cocaine Sweep Chris Forshey
Altoona Police have arrested seven people as a result of a drug investigation dating back to August of 2009.
City police and the State Police Troop G Vice Unit say they began investigating the cocaine distribution ring after receiving calls to the Push Out the Pushers Drug Hotline. Law enforcement officials used confidential informants and undercover officers to make the buys.
State Police on Wednesday arrested Rhonda Weston, who is currently in the Blair County Prison, and Mark Leap, who is currently lodged in the Cambria County Prison. On Thursday, city police arrested Ashley Knisley, Tamara Knisley, Zelda Jean Delbridge and Derek Musser. They were arraigned in front of Magisterial District Judge Ron Horner and lodged in the Blair County Prison. An outstanding warrant remains for Gerald Friley
Police say they made several of the cocaine buys from Tamara Knisley as she was working for her mother Sandra McFarland at a personal care home at 1122 15th Avenue. McFarland was arrested last month on drug charges and her home has since been closed by the state.
Police: UPS Package Contained Drugs Chris Forshey
A Huntingdon County man received a surprise delivery on Wednesday – that’s because a State Police trooper delivered his UPS package which contained marijuana.
UPS officials in Altoona thought the package sent from an address in California to David Fleisch of Calvin looked suspicious, so they decided to search it. Inside they found the marijuana in a cooler placed under some vegetables. UPS workers contacted police. A state police trooper decided to personally deliver the package dressed as a UPS worker. Once Fleisch accepted the parcel, other police officers raided his home.
Troopers say they found six pounds of marijuana, 17 firearms and several boxes of illegal fireworks. Fleisch was taken into custody and arraigned Thursday morning. Troopers are now trying to trace the package back to its roots in California.
Juniata Memorial Pool won’t Open for 2010 Season Chris Forshey
A popular Altoona pool won’t open for the 2010 summer season.
Officials with Central Blair Recreation Commission said Thursday that the Juniata Memorial Pool’s filtration system is beyond repair and a corroded steel wall creates a potential electrocution problem.
Commission officials say it would cost about $200,000 to properly repair the filter system and another $100,000 to make repairs to the pool itself. Estimates show it would cost a half-million dollars to build a new pool. The commission has voted to form a committee to explore potential remedies for the situation, which could include turning the facility into a water park for children 12 and under.
A consultant will also be brought in to evaluate the situation and make recommendations. Officials say the city’s other swimming destination -- Prospect Pool -- is scheduled to open to the public on June 10th.
Forestry Officials: Fire Danger Moderate Chris Forshey
State forestry officials have raised the fire danger warning in our area from low to moderate following a series of brush fires over the past few days.
Firefighters on Thursday spent several hours battling wildfires along Eagle Valley Road near the Blair/Centre County line and near Shaver’s Creek in Huntingdon County. Forecasters say while the ground may be wet, brush and other yard waste left behind from over the winter is drying out – and the low humidity adds to the overall fire risk.
Fire officials are urging residents to refrain from burning during the hours of 10:00AM and 6:00PM until the spring vegetation starts to surface.
PA Jobless Rate Highest Since '84; 16,000 Jobs Shed Chris Forshey/AP
Pennsylvania employers continued to reduce payrolls last month as the state's unemployment rate rose slightly to its highest point in a quarter century.
The state Labor and Industry Department said Thursday that employers shed another 16,000 jobs in February. That brings the number of jobs lost since the recession began in December 2007 to 260,000, or one in 22.
The department also says the unemployment rate rose from 8.8-percent to 8.9-percent in February, the highest in 25 years. The department initially reported the jobless rate to be 8.9-percent in October, then later revised it downward to 8.6-percent.
Still, Pennsylvania's rate remains below the national jobless rate of 9.7-percent.
Night Work to Begin on Interstate 99 Chris Forshey
Some major road work is scheduled to get underway along Interstate 99 in Blair County next week.
PennDOT says New Enterprise construction crews will begin work Monday on a $7-million rehabilitation project between the Plank Road and 17th Street exits on Interstate 99. The work will be completed between the hours of 8:00PM and 9:30AM. PennDOT spokeswoman Tara Callahan-Henry says crews will be patching the concrete roadway and installing new guardrails.
Work on the project is anticipated to be completed by September 2010.
March 18, 2010
City Police Find Wanted Fugitive in 14th Avenue Apartment Chris Forshey
Altoona Police have arrested a wanted Megan’s Law violator from Ohio.
City police received a tip Wednesday that 29-year-old Matthew Fries was staying at an apartment on the 1000 Block of Lexington Avenue. Officers went to the apartment but Fries was gone. The later caught up with Fries at an apartment at 1101 14th Avenue after receiving a tip from an informant.
City police surrounded the building and took Fries into custody without incident. Court documents show Fries is a sexually violent predator who is described as armed and dangerous and an escape risk. He was taken into custody on a fugitive from justice warrant and lodged in the Blair County Prison.
Brush Fire Consumes Two Acres of Land Chris Forshey
Firefighters worked quickly to extinguish a brush fire in rural Blair County on Wednesday.
Fire crews were called to a home just off Route 22 in Catherine Township shortly after 3:00PM. Williamsburg Assistant Fire Chief Steve Lane says the homeowner was burning some yard waste– and it sparked the brush fire. Lane says the flames consumed about two acres of land and a storage shed.
Firefighters remained on scene about two hours. Volunteers from the Geeseytown and Alexandria Fire Departments were called in to assist in battling the flames.
Local Officials Urge Census Participation Chris Forshey
Local government officials are urging residents to complete and mail back their 2010 census forms.
The questionnaires began arrived in Blair County resident’s mailboxes this week. Logan Township supervisor Frank Meloy said the township had a 70-percent participation rate in 2000. Meloy is hoping to see that number increase this time around – because there is a lot of federal money at stake.
Meloy
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsmeloy031810.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Meloy says the count could help or hurt the amount of money the township receives in liquid fuels dollars and for emergency services. In May, census workers will begin to visit the homes of those who didn’t mail back forms.
Shuster: ‘America Deserves Up or Down Vote on Healthcare’ Chris Forshey
Congressman Bill Shuster is co-sponsoring legislation that will require House members to take an up or down vote on the Senate’s health care bill.
Shuster says if passed, the resolution would prevent House Speaker Nancy Pelosi from implementing the “Slaughter Solution;” which is a highly controversial parliamentary trick that would effectively pass the health care bill without actually voting on it.
The legislation was originally introduced by Congressman Parker Griffith of Alabama. Shuster says the American people are still outraged that the Democrats passed the stimulus without reading it. And he says they are doubly angry that Pelosi is endorsing a scheme to pass healthcare without the basic requirement of an up or down vote.
Blair School Students Raise $130,000 in Daffodil Sales Chris Forshey
Blair County’s school districts have reached a new record selling daffodils for the American Cancer Society.
Officials say 31 schools raised a combined $143,000. The students sold more than 100,000 of the green stemmed bright yellow flowers. The top selling school – Foot of Ten Elementary in the Hollidaysburg School District. It’s the 14th year the school took the top slot and officials say the students sold 30,000 flowers.
Money raised through the daffodil sales goes to support local patient services, educational programs and cancer research initiatives. Daffodil Days runs through March 21st.
After 4th Day, Veon Jury Shows Signs of Strain Chris Forshey/AP
A fourth day of deliberations in the public corruption trial of a former state lawmaker and his aides is over without a verdict, and jurors are showing the strain.
The eight-woman, four-man panel wrapped up late Wednesday without concluding the theft, conspiracy and conflict-of-interest trial of former Representative Mike Veon and aides Brett Cott, Steve Keefer and Annamarie Perretta-Rosepink.
They've now deliberated for about 29 hours since their closed-door sessions began late Friday. One juror told the judge they've been turning on each other, and three seemed to be wiping tears as they left the courtroom.
The defendants are accused of using public resources to wage political campaigns. Testimony lasted nearly six weeks.
Sestak Tries to Knock Out Political Newcomer Chris Forshey/AP
U.S. Senate candidate Joe Sestak is challenging the petition of a fellow candidate seeking to get his name on May's Democratic primary ballot.
Sestak's challenge filed late Tuesday in Commonwealth Court said Joseph Vodvarka's petition does not contain enough valid voter signatures.
Sestak is a second-term member of Congress and former Navy admiral from the Philadelphia suburbs. Vodvarka owns a spring manufacturing business in the Pittsburgh area and has never run for political office. Both are challenging incumbent Democratic Senator Arlen Specter. Sestak is questioning the validity of more than 1,100 of the 2,600-plus signatures that he says Vodvarka filed.
Candidates were required to collect the name, address and signature of at least 2,000 registered Democratic voters by last week's deadline. Vodvarka said Wednesday he will contest Sestak's challenge.
March 17, 2010
Altoona Man Hit, Killed Along Busy Roadway Chris Forshey
An Altoona man is dead after being stuck by a car while walking along a busy Blair County roadway.
The victim has been identified as 61-year-old Samuel Luke of 212 Meyers Lane. State Police at Hollidaysburg say the accident happened just before 9:00AM Tuesday along State Route 220 in Antis Township near Splinter’s Bowing Alley. Luke was pronounced dead at the scene from blunt force trauma. The driver of the striking vehicle, 31-year-old Robert Ferguson of Houtzdale, was not injured.
The Blair County Coroner’s office says an autopsy and toxicology tests will be performed on Luke. The investigation continues.
PA Senate Panel Tables Bill to Ban Gay Marriage Chris Forshey
The latest effort to amend Pennsylvania's constitution to effectively ban same-sex marriage is stalling in Harrisburg.
The state Senate Judiciary Committee voted narrowly Tuesday to table the measure defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman.
The senators didn't utter a word of debate before or after gay-rights proponent Senator Daylin Leach proposed to table the measure. The vote was 8-6. Pennsylvania law already defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman. But proponents of a constitutional amendment say a judge could overturn the law, even though Pennsylvania courts are not believed to be considering a challenge to that law.
The bill was sponsored by 30th District State Senator John Eichelberger. Opponents of the amendment say lesbians and gays deserve the same rights as straight Americans.
Blair’s Healthcare Plan to Increase 16.9% Chris Forshey/AP
The Blair County Commissioners say the cost of their Highmark healthcare plan will increase 16.9-percent on April 1st.
Commissioner Diane Meling says the county was facing a 23-percent increase, but the board elected to adopt a higher deductible for non-union workers to keep costs down.
Meling
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsmeling031710.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Records show the county exceeded their premium costs last year by $600,000. Highmark representatives are also holding a series of food education classes with county workers to encourage them to live a healthier lifestyle. The county spends more than $5-million on providing healthcare benefits each year.
Groups Wants to Turn Stream into Natural Flood Buffer Zone Chris Forshey
Blair County’s Conservation District wants to make improvements to a county owned stream by turning it into a natural buffer zone to help control flooding.
The stream is located between the parking lot at Valley View Home and Valley View Park. Conservation District Director Donna Fisher told county leaders on Tuesday the project would be paid for through a $5,000 state grant. And Fisher says it would require lots of volunteers to make it happen
Fisher
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsfisher031710.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Fisher says the project could become a model to encourage other municipalities and homeowners to create better buffer zones to help control flooding. The project could be underway by fall if the grant money comes through.
March 16, 2010
Canoe Trip Ends In Rescue Effort Craig Schaffer
Two Altoona men have local firefighters to thank for a dramatic rescue effort Sunday.
Brandon Lowman and Jordan Heitkomp, both 18, were tossed into the waters of the Frankstown Branch of the Juniata River after the canoe they were riding in capsized.
When Geeseytown and Duncansville crews got to the scene around 4am the two men were still in the water. A 17 year old male who had also been thrown into the river had managed to get to shore and call for help.
It appears the three men set off on their ill advised canoe trip sometime between 12 and 1am Sunday near Monastery Road. They only made it about a mile down the river before the canoe overturned.
City Police Charge Man with Impersonating Police Officer Chris Forshey
Altoona Police have arrested a city man for impersonating a police officer.
The charges stem from an incident March 1st in a parking lot at 501 6th Avenue. City police say Jamal Rajiv Hazelwood confronted three juveniles for throwing snowballs. The juveniles told officers Hazelwood identified himself as an off-duty officer, pointed a gun at them and then ordered them to raise their hands.
Hazelwood turned himself into police Monday. City police searched his apartment at 918 North 5th Avenue and uncovered a 9mm handgun. Hazlewood was arraigned in front of Magisterial District Judge Jeff Auker and released on $7,500 bail.
Residents Ask Council for More Traffic Enforcement Chris Forshey
Residents living in one Altoona neighborhood say they want to see more traffic enforcement by city police officers.
The issue surfaced Monday night as city officials held a town hall meeting with about 75 people who reside in the Garden Heights section of the city. Resident Carl Enmon says excessive speeding and vehicle’s that run stop signs are just part of the ongoing traffic problem. Enmon and his neighbors say they would like to see a combination of one way streets, do not enter signs and barricades to keep non-residents out.
Enmon
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsenmon031610.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
City councilman Mark Geis says putting more cops in the neighborhood is good first step in beginning to address the issue.
Geis
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsgeis031610.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Geis says a traffic study is scheduled to begin April 1st.
PSU Altoona Students Experience DUI Simulator Chris Forshey
Some Penn State Altoona students got a sobering lesson Monday – just two days before the Saint Patrick’s Day Holiday.
Campus officials, PennDOT and the Pennsylvania DUI Association set up a special impaired driving simulator to allow sober students to experience what its like to drive under the influence of alcohol. DUI association spokeswoman Cathy Tress says she hopes the video-game like experience will help the students think twice before they make a decision that could potentially be life-changing.
Tress
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newstress031610.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
PSU Judicial Affairs coordinator Ryan Service says new trends show there is heavier drinking among students around holidays, so campus officials wanted to raise awareness about the problem to keep the students safe and out of trouble.
AASD Hires New Women’s Basketball, Soccer Coaches Chria Forshey
The Altoona-Area School District has named new head coaches for two varsity sports. The appointments came during the district’s monthly meeting on Monday.
Jill Bartley Helsel will take over the Lady Lion basketball team, after serving for the past nine years as an assistant coach under Craig Long. Helsel played basketball for Altoona from 1992-1995. She currently serves as an elementary physical education teacher in the district.
The board has also appointed junior-high school women’s soccer coach James John to take over the varsity Lady Lion program. John has held several local coaching positions since graduating from the district in 1992. He also serves as a sixth grade elementary teacher at Pleasant Valley Elementary School.
Former PA Turnpike Head to Be Spared Prison Chris Forshey/AP
The former head of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission would serve six months of house arrest and pay $150,000 but would be spared prison time under a plea agreement with federal prosecutors who alleged that he got a no-work contract from a former state senator.
Fifty-eight-year-old Mitchell Rubin was charged last week with obstruction of justice in the grand jury probe of former state Senator Vincent Fumo, who was convicted on fraud and related charges a year ago.
Prosecutors alleged that Rubin withheld information about his relationship with Fumo and how a Senate contract was awarded to his company. Under the plea agreement filed Monday, Rubin is to plead guilty to one count of obstruction.
One of his attorneys, Joseph P. Grimes, said Monday night his client "is just looking to put this episode behind him."
Specter Foes to Debate April 11th without Him Chris Forshey/AP
U.S. Senate candidates Joe Sestak and Pat Toomey will hold a second debate without each other's actual opponents in the May 18th primary.
Sestak, a congressman from the Philadelphia suburbs, and former congressman Toomey will meet April 11th at La Salle University.
The pair staged a similar event last fall. Toomey is opposed for the Republican nomination by Johnstown activist Peg Luksik. Sestak is opposing incumbent Arlen Specter for the Democratic nomination.
He complains that Specter will only agree to a debate on Saturday, May 1. That debate will be televised statewide. The Specter campaign counters that the fifth-term senator debated Sestak on live TV last month and has made a couple other joint appearances.
March 15, 2010
Former Altoona Business Owner Charged with Forgery staff
A former Altoona business man is facing forgery charges.
State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement officials say the charges stem from an investigation in May 2009 at Michael’s Café in Downtown Altoona – and of its former owner 44-year-old Michael Rickard. According to a news releaser, Rickard is accused of proving falsified documents to the law enforcement agency. Details surround the investigation have yet to be released.
Rickard has been charged with forgery, unsworn falsification to authorities and obstructing administration of law.
Buckhorn Crash Kills Claims a Life Craig Schaffer
An Ashville woman lost her life early Sunday morning in a crash in Blair County.
Fog may have been a factor in the one car accident that happened on Route 36 at the intersection of Skyline Drive.
24 year old Jennifer Treon apparently lost control of her car a little after 6:30 Sunday morning, hit a snow bank, went airborne and hit a pole.
It’s being reported that Treon died at the scene from head injuries.
Viewing Today for Local High School Student Killed in Crash Chris Forshey
A viewing will be held today for a Central High School student killed in a one-car crash late last week in Blair County.
Family and friends of 17-year-old Derek Cuomo will be received from 3:00-5:00PM and 7:00-9:00PM today at Martinsburg Grace Brethren Church. A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM Tuesday at the church.
Cuomo was killed early Saturday morning after losing control of his car along Henrietta Road in North Woodbury Township. The accident remains under investigation. School officials say grief counselors will be on hand today to help students cope with Cuomo’s death.
The high school senior was part of Central’s wrestling team and had enlisted in the U.S. Air Force.
Blair DUI Taskforce Nets Four Arrests Chris Forshey
Blair Country DUI Taskforce officers arrested four motorists for impaired driving over the weekend.
The arrests occurred during a roving patrol detail held in several local communities. Thirty seven motorists were stopped for traffic of equipment violations. Officers also issued a combination of 33 traffic citations and warnings.
One motorist has also been charged with providing false identification to a law enforcement officer.
PA Highway Deaths Decline to Record Low Chris Forshey/AP
The number of deaths on Pennsylvania's highways has plunged to its lowest level since Model Ts still chugged along the roads of the commonwealth.
Officials are crediting years of safety programs but cannot rule out an assist from the struggling economy.
According to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation figures, 1,256 people died in accidents in 2009. That's a 14.4-percent decline from 2008 and the lowest total since the state started keeping records in 1928. The previous low mark was 1,328 in fuel-scarce 1944 during World War II. Officials had no immediate explanation for the decline, citing the cumulative effect of safety programs by state and local governments and others. But a PennDOT spokesman also acknowledged that less driving because of the recession may have been a factor.
Preliminary numbers indicate decreases in the number of deaths attributed to alcohol, aggressive driving, and drivers or passengers not using seat belts. But the number of fatalities in crashes involving drivers age 65 and older increased from 259 in 2008 to 276 in 2009.
PA's 'Tea Party' Finding Strength in Independence
Some day it might be remembered as the Tea Party primary --The newly forming activist groups that identify heartily with calls for cutting taxes, deficits, red tape and government programs are organizing demonstrations, holding candidate forums and getting a boost from private conservative institutions in Pennsylvania.
Candidates, especially Republicans, who are running for office are heeding the message that is spawning challengers to GOP incumbents or establishment candidates.
There are dozens of the groups in Pennsylvania, some that claim hundreds of members. The goals and methods tend to vary from group to group, and some are able to provide few specifics as to how they want government to change, but they've made a strong impression.
But their refusal, so far, to endorse establishment candidates or form a third party may be their strongest hand. Some, perhaps many, tea party organizers want to remain independent and force Republicans, Democrats and independents to court them.
Route 1001 Widening And Resurfacing Work To Begin Craig Schaffer
Work begins today on a $1.4 million widening and resurfacing project along Pleasant Valley Boulevard in Altoona.
The affected area will be between the intersection with First Street and Grant Street.
Minor delays may be possible during peak travel hours in this area as lane restrictions will be in place. All work on this project will be completed by October.
Lawmaker Proposes Redirecting PA Flood Tax Money Chris Forshey/AP
Nearly 75 years after the 1936 flood in Johnstown, a tax on alcohol that bears the name of the disaster still sends millions annually into state coffers.
But state Representative Bryan Barbin now wants to use part of the money to bail out strapped local governments and programs for a decade - before eliminating the tax altogether. The tax was instituted in 1936 after St. Patrick's Day floodwaters killed several dozen people and caused an estimated $41-million in damage. Originally a 10-percent levy on liquor, the tax was used to help with cleanup but remained after the work was done.
Raised twice over the decades since, proceeds of the current 18-percent tax on wine and other liquor sales generates $270-million that goes directly into the state's general fund, Barbin said. His measure would direct those funds to battle urban blight and fill an anticipated funding gap in the state's pension system. The tax would be eliminated in 2021.
March 12, 2010
Flood Watch Issued for Blair County Chris Forshey
The National Weather Service in State College has extended its flood watch to include Blair County.
Forecasters say there is the chance for some dangerous flooding as we head into the weekend. WRTA Weather Channel Meteorologist Scott Landis says a storm that’s expected to drop two inches of rain is now scheduled to stall over the region.
Landis says minor flooding is expected because the rain will mix with the melting snow brought on by the warmer temperatures. A flood watch means there is a potential for flooding on small streams, creeks and in low-lying areas.
New Executive Director Named For AMCVB Craig Schaffer
There’s a new man at the helm of the Allegheny Mountains Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Mark Ickes has been named Executive Director of the organization. Ickes takes over after holding the position of director of membership development at the Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau.
Former AMCVB Executive Director Cheryl Ebersole resigned last September after 20 years with the bureau. Three days prior to her resignation she had been put on paid administrative leave. It was never revealed what precipitated the move.
Ickes begins his stint with the AMCVB next month.
Council to Address Traffic Concerns at Monday Forum Chris Forshey
Representatives from Altoona City Council will host a public meeting Monday night with residents living in the Garden Heights section of the city.
City administrators are looking for input for residents about how to solve ongoing traffic problems in the neighborhood. It’s the first step in a planned traffic study by city officials. Councilman Dave Butterbaugh says now is the time for residents to have their voices heard.
Butterbaugh
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsbutterbaugh031210.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
The forum starts at 7:00PM at the Garden Heights United Methodist Church.
Logan Board Approves Windmill Farm Change Request Chris Forshey
Logan Township Supervisors have agreed to allow Gamesa to change the length of the blades on proposed wind towers at the Chestnut Flats Wind Farm.
Gamesa project developer Jon Baker told the board Thursday night the company has switched to a longer, more efficient blade model and that’s what prompted the change. The township’s planning commission had initially raised concerns that the blade lengths on at least one tower might be visible from the Horseshoe Curve.
Supervisor Ed Frontino says township engineers say while there is little room for error, the blade length still shouldn’t be an issue.
Frontino
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsfrontino031210.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Baker says construction at the wind farm site should begin later this spring.
Law Agencies to Share $230,000 from Operation Our Town Chris Forshey
Seven local law enforcement agencies have received a financial boost from Operation Our Town to help fight crime.
Organization officials awarded $230,000 in grants Thursday to the Blair County District Attorney’s Office, Blair County Drug Taskforce, Special Police Operations Unit, Central Pennsylvania Humane Society, Blair County Sheriff’s Department and the Hollidaysburg and Williamsburg Police Departments.
Attorney General’s Office Regional Director Randy Feathers say the money will be used for everything from funding a drug prosecutor to purchasing new equipment and police tactic gear. Feathers’ says the money is always well-spent.
Feathers
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsfeathers031210.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Operation Our Town officials say they will award an additional $100-thousand in grant funding for proven treatment programs in July.
Logan Seeking New Tax Collector Chris Forshey
Logan Township’s tax collector has resigned.
Kathy Mittermeier submitted a letter to the Board of Supervisors this week saying she wants to spend more time with her family. Supervisor Frank Meloy says the board needs to move quickly to fill the post.
Meloy
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsmeloy031210.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
The appointee will hold the position until January 2012. Township residents interested in the position need to submit a letter stating why they think they are qualified. Letters must be turned into Solicitor Larry Clapper’s law office on Logan Boulevard by March 19th.
GOP Picks Burns As Nominee To Fill Murtha's Seat Craig Schaffer/AP
Republicans in Pennsylvania have nominated a political newcomer to fill the congressional seat of the late Rep. John Murtha.
Forty-one-year-old Tim Burns is a millionaire businessman and a native of Murtha's hometown of Johnstown. Burns now lives in the town of Eighty Four.
Burns beat out retired Army officer Bill Russell, who mounted a strong challenge against Murtha in 2008. Burns bested Russell 85 to 46 at a GOP meeting Thursday at St. Vincent College near Latrobe.
Burns will face Democrat Mark Critz in the May 18 special election to fill the remaining eight months of Murtha's term. Critz was Murtha's former district director.
The district represents a large swath of southwestern Pennsylvania.
Murtha died Feb. 8 following complications from gallbladder surgery.
PA Judge won't Reverse Changes to Building Codes Chris Forshey/AP
A state judge will not grant an injunction stopping new changes to Pennsylvania's residential and commercial building codes.
Commonwealth Court Judge Johnny Butler said in a Wednesday order that the petition by the Pennsylvania Builders Association and private developers does nothing to address the underlying issue they are citing.
The builders' January lawsuit is still standing. It says changes written by an outside code commission and adopted December 31st by the state is an unconstitutional delegation of lawmaking authority. It also says the recent updates to the codes will increase the cost of construction and hurt homebuyers.
But Butler says the 2006 codes to which the home builders and developers want to return were also produced by the same process that they say is unconstitutional.
March 11, 2010
Officials: Flooding Possible Next Few Days Chris Forshey
Officials say heavy rainfall in the forecast could bring the potential for some flooding over the next few days.
The National Weather Service in State College has already issued a flood watch for Cambria County and points westward as the storm moves into our region later today. WRTA Weather Channel Meteorologist David Lew says just because there is no flood watch, the potential for some localized flooding is still there.
Lew says more than two inches of rain is expected to fall through Sunday – and small streams and creeks are the most vulnerable to flooding.
Council to Fill Vacant Seat March 24th Chris Forshey
Altoona City Council will vote to fill a vacant council seat by the end of the month.
City officials said Wednesday that applications for the vacancy are being accepted through March 15th. So far four people have applied for the position – several of which are familiar faces to Altoona voters. James Pruesser and Michael Haire have confirmed they are on the list – each campaigned for council seats in November, but lost. Jan Mills – who ran against Mayor Bill Schirf last year, has also applied. Altoona Share Tree committee member Ted Newkirk is also in the running.
Mayor Bill Schirf says council will select a new member at their March 24th meeting. The vacant seat was left open by the sudden death of Councilman Jason Ibrahim on February 26th.
Local Army Reservists Called to Serve in Iraq Chris Forshey
A group of Army reservists from Altoona has been called-up to serve another tour of duty in Iraq.
The 200 soldiers are with the Altoona-based 298th Maintenance Company. An Army spokesman says the unit will provide maintenance support to military equipment in the war-torn county. The group last deployed in 2005.
Reservists from Hollidaysburg, Johnstown, Pittsburgh, Lock Haven and State College are also scheduled to deploy with the group.
Local Dog Activist Charged with Criminal Trespassing Chris Forshey
A Blair County dog activist who was convicted of stealing an East Freedom couple’s German Shepherd in 2006 is again facing criminal charges.
State Police at Hollidaysburg say 46-year-old Tamira Ci Thayne of Tyrone illegally trespassed on private property Sunday along Gypsy Camp Hollow Road in Snyder Township. Troopers say Thayne entered posted property with a video camera and filmed several dogs that were chained to their outdoor shelters. Thayne posted the video of herself interacting with the seven dogs on ‘YouTUBE.’ Thayne claims the dogs were being mistreated. She gave video and photo evidence to the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society on Monday. Officers have since visited the site and removed three dogs for medical treatment – two others were turned over to alternate caregivers.
Thayne – who is formerly known as Tammy Grimes – was convicted in 2007 by a Blair County jury after she stole a 19-year-old dog named Doogie, took it to a veterinarian and then never returned it to its owners.
City Police to Meet with Towing Companies Chris Forshey
Altoona City Police will meet representatives from local towing companies to hash out policy complaints which have arisen over the past few months.
Representatives from several towing businesses told city council again Wednesday night that they were being slighted business opportunities because of the way the city’s towing availability list operates. Councilman Bruce Kelley says it’s become apparent that there are kinks in the system, and he wants the owners to work through their issues directly with city police – without council intervention.
Kelley
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newskelley31110.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
City officials have not said when the meeting will take place. Council instituted the tow-call policy in 2002 in order to reduce the number of tow trucks at accident scenes. But some of the towers claim their contracts with local dealerships and repair shops are no longer being honored by the city.
Attorney: PA Officers with Roethlisberger at Club Chris Forshey/AP
An attorney says two off-duty Pennsylvania law enforcement officers were with Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger at the Georgia nightclub where a woman accused him of sexual assault, but they didn't see anything inappropriate.
Pennsylvania attorney Michael Santicola said Wednesday night that Anthony Barravecchio, an officer on a suburban Pittsburgh police force, and Pennsylvania Trooper Ed Joyner were with Roetchlisberger celebrating his birthday. Santicola represents Barravecchio but said Joyner is also a longtime friend. Santicola says neither men saw any criminal activity.
Police are investigating the 20-year-old college student's claim that Roethlisberger sexually assaulted her early Friday. Roethlisberger has not been charged. An attorney for the two-time Super Bowl winner has said Roethlisberger is innocent.
Hafer Drops Out of Race for Murtha's Former Seat Chris Forshey/AP
Former state treasurer and auditor general Barbara Hafer has dropped out of the Democratic primary race for the U.S. House seat once held by late Representative John Murtha.
Hafer filed nominating petitions Tuesday to get on the May 18th primary ballot for the 12th Congressional seat. But she told the Associated Press on Wednesday she’s dropping out to defer to Murtha aide Mark Critz, who has been endorsed by Murtha's widow, Joyce. State Democrats have chosen Critz to run in a special election, also May 18th, to serve the rest of Murtha's term.
Critz and three other Democrats are running in the primary to face the Republican nominee in November to fill Murtha's seat for a full two-year term starting next year. Murtha died in office February 8th following complications from gallbladder surgery.
Former PA Turnpike Chief Charged with Obstruction Chris Forshey
The former head of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has been charged with obstruction of justice in the investigation of a former state senator.
Federal prosecutors say Mitchell Rubin was charged Wednesday in connection with the grand jury investigation of former state Senator Vincent Fumo.
Court documents filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Philadelphia say Rubin withheld information about the circumstances that led to his company, B&R Professional Services Inc., allegedly getting a no-work Senate contract. Governor Ed Rendell removed Rubin from the Turnpike Commission a year ago, citing the federal investigation.
Fumo, a longtime Democratic powerbroker, was convicted at trial along with his aide, Ruth Arnao, who is Rubin's wife. An attorney for Rubin says he's not going to comment.
Aide says Rendell Can't Change Tax-Cut Deadline Chris Forshey/Ap
A spokesman for Governor Ed Rendell says his hands are tied when it comes to giving homeowners more time to apply for residential property tax cuts financed by taxes on slot-machine gambling.
Rendell spokesman Gary Tuma said Wednesday the March 1st deadline is set by law and cannot be unilaterally changed by the governor.
Tuma said Rendell also has no direct control over the counties which administer the homestead-exclusion program. Earlier Wednesday, state Auditor General Jack Wagner urged Rendell to issue an executive order extending the deadline to April 15th to help homeowners confused by the 2-year-old program.
Wagner is one of four candidates for the Democratic nomination.
March 10, 2010
Barn Burns In Allegheny Township Craig Schaffer
A fire destroyed a small barn and its contents last night in Blair County.
No one was hurt when the structure on Pletcher Road in Allegheny Township went up in flames around 7pm. In addition there were no animals being kept in the barn owned by Tammy and Carl Detterline. Homes on either side of the barn sustained some heat damage.
There is no damage estimate at this time nor has a cause been determined. A state police fire marshal will be called in to investigate.
Altoona Man Guilty of Spending Bank’s Money Chris Forshey
A Blair County jury has convicted an Altoona man of spending $175,000 that was mistakenly put into his bank account.
It took jurors just an hour to return the guilty verdicts on theft and receiving stolen property charges against Herbert Starbird on Tuesday. Police charged Starbird criminally last year after he failed to pay the money back to First Commonwealth Bank. The bank admitted it mistakenly deposited $280,000 in Starbird’s account in 2007. Starbird claimed the bank told him the deposit was not a mistake.
District Attorney Richard Consiglio says the whole thing could have been avoided if Starbird had just paid the money back. Defense Attorney Tom Dickey said the case should have been resolved in civil court. Sentencing is set for May 13th.
Police: City Man Ordered Dog to Attack Officers Chris Forshey
An Altoona man is facing felony charges after Altoona Police say he ordered his pit bull dog to attack two officers.
31-year-old Matthew Moser surrendered to authorities Tuesday morning. The officers went to Moser’s Willow Avenue home early Monday to investigate a dog bite. Police say they asked Moser to come outside and that’s when he allegedly ordered his dog to attack. The pit bull charged and tried to bite an officer, but the cops kicked the dog in the face and it retreated.
Moser fled the scene. He’s been charged with aggravated assault, simple assault and harassment. A preliminary hearing in Moser’s case is set for March 17th.
Blair Lawmakers to Run Unopposed Chris Forshey
Blair County’s three state lawmakers appear poised to breeze through the May primary election without any opponents.
Petitions for all elected positions were due by the close of business on Tuesday. An online document filed by the Pennsylvania Department of State late Tuesday show there were no challengers against 30th District State Senator John Eichelberger, Altoona State Representative Rick Geist, and 80th District State Representative Jerry Stern. Records also show that 9th District Congressman Bill Shuster will run unopposed.
Locally, several people have filed petitions for open seats on the local and state Republican and Democratic committees.
Blair Officials Say Changes to Benefit Makes Access Easier Chris Forshey
The Blair County Commissioners have made changes to their employee’s supplemental benefits account – and that will allow for some savings while offering participants easier access to the funds.
County leaders approved the change on Tuesday. Commissioner Donna Gority says the move allows employees to put part of their paycheck -- tax free -- into an Aflac flexible spending account. Gority says they will then be given a debit card to help pay for medical expenses from the account at the time of service.
Gority
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsgority031010.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Gority says it significantly cuts down on extensive paperwork. The county will hold a series of meetings with the workers to inform them of the changes.
Sub Shop to Occupy Space in County-Owned Building Chris Forshey
The Blair County Commissioners say they have found a new tenant to lease part of the building that houses the offices of Magisterial District Judge Fred Miller in Tyrone.
County leaders have tried unsuccessfully for two years to lease the space. But Commissioner Terry Tomassetti says that changed when the county was approached by Stephen Burkholder, who has plans to open a sub shop and bulk food store.
The two-year lease begins on July 1st. There is no word yet on when Burkholder plan to open his store.
Santorum Urges Iowa Evangelicals To Act Craig Schaffer/AP
Former Republican Sen. Rick Santorum is telling Iowa evangelicals that he was once a "pro-life fraud" who only gave lip service to the abortion issue. Now he's calling himself a national anti-abortion leader.
The former Pennsylvania lawmaker told the Iowa Christian Alliance on Tuesday night that he's come to welcome attacks on his conservative views on abortion.
Santorum says conservatives must be rallied by the Obama administration. He argues that liberals have already launched attacks on religious and social conservatives.
The speech is part of Santorum's second swing through Iowa. Religious conservatives play a key role in the Iowa precinct caucuses that traditionally launch the presidential nominating season.
Conklin Seeks Lieutenant Governor’s Post staff
A Centre County Democrat has officially entered the race for lieutenant governor.
77th District State Representative Scott Conklin received enough signatures on his petition to seek the nomination. Conklin says people are frustrated with state government.
Conklin
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsconklin031010.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
In addition to running for lieutenant governor, Conklin will campaigns to retain his house seat.
PA Petitions Yield Another U.S. Senate Candidate Chris Forshey
Pennsylvania's Democratic primary for U.S. Senate is no longer a two-man race.
Nominating petitions due Tuesday revealed a third contestant - Joseph Vodvarka, a spring manufacturer from western Pennsylvania.
Like his primary opponents - fifth-term Senator Arlen Specter and U.S. Representative Joe Sestak - Vodvarka had to gather the signatures of at least 2,000 Democratic voters to qualify for the May 18th primary ballot. Vodvarka has not held public office before. He advocates smaller government, lower taxes and making English the national language.
On the Republican side, former U.S. Representative Pat Toomey has turned in his petitions and Johnstown activist Peg Luksik is also planning to file.
PA to Offer Rebates for Efficient Home Heating Chris Forshey/AP
Federal economic stimulus money soon will start providing rebates to Pennsylvanians on the purchase of new, Energy Star-rated hot-water heaters, furnaces and boilers.
Governor Ed Rendell said Tuesday that applications for rebates are expected to become available in April on the state's stimulus Web site, www.recovery.pa.gov.
Rendell says the $11-million rebate program could benefit more than 30,000 Pennsylvania households and provide long-term energy savings. The rebates will be worth $100 to $500. The higher the equipment's efficiency rating, the larger the rebate.
The rebates only apply to non-electric residential heating equipment. Rebates on electrical appliances may be available through regulated electric utility companies.
March 9, 2010
Police: Woman Overdosed in Convenience Store Bathroom Chris Forshey
Altoona Police say a city woman found dead in a Whenwood convenience store bathroom early Monday morning died from a Heroin overdose.
City police were called to Sheetz on the East 400 Block of 25th Avenue around 1:15AM – that’s where they found the 21-year-old woman unresponsive with a needle stuck in her arm. She was pronounced dead by the Blair County coroner. Officers say a second woman also overdosed in the same bathroom. She was revived by AMED crews and transported to the Altoona Regional Health System.
Authorities have yet to release the victim’s names. The investigation is ongoing. Sheetz spokeswoman Monica Jones says the store was closed for about an hour.
Blair Airport FBO Asks for Concessions Chris Forshey
The current fixed base operator at the Altoona Blair County Airport has asked the airport authority to consider making some changes to their current lease.
PennAIR representatives told the airport authority on Monday that the company needs concession to make the business profitable again. If that doesn’t work, PennAIR wants to explore selling its operations to one of four potential buyers.
Authority member Martin Marasco says the latest twist comes just as the airport was getting ready to seek proposals from two other groups who were interested in taking over the operation completely.
Marasco
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsmarasco3910.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Marasco says the authority will review the proposal. Other members say all options are currently on the table – and they are in the process of reviewing them with their solicitor.
Blair Considers Raises for Adult Parole Supervisors Chris Forshey
Blair County Salary Board members have delayed a request to raise the salaries of department supervisor’s in the Adult Parole Office.
Court officials submitted a request last week to split part of the salary of retiring co-chief Doug Weaver among second co-chief Thomas Shea, three probation supervisors and an officer aide. The salary increases would range from $1,800 to $11,000.
Judge Jolene Kopriva argued Monday that the workers will be taking on Weaver’s duties. But Controller Richard Peo is calling the proposed raises unfair because other departments have done their work without a full complement of staff.
Peo
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newspeo3910.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
The commissioners say there is a cost savings to the county. The Salary Board will reconvene next Monday to further discuss the proposal.
Officials: Prison Overtime Due to Call Offs, Transports Chris Forshey
The Blair County Commissioners say an excessive amount overtime at the county prison in February stemmed from a rash of employee call off’s and a high number of out-of-town prisoner transports.
Records show the county paid a total of $12,685 in overtime on the pay periods that ended February 12th and February 26th. Commissioner Terry Tomassetti says guards took several prisoners to Pittsburgh for medical treatments – and there were 49 call-offs due to the snowstorms. Tomassetti called the high overtime amount a rarity at the prison.
Tomassetti
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newstomassetti3910.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Tomassetti says the prison workers are allowed six call-off days per their union contract before corrective action can be taken. He says the county is trying to reduce that number in the new contract under negotiation.
Greenwood Firefighters Receive $53,000 Chris Forshey
A Logan Township fire department has received a big financial boost from Washington.
Ninth District Congressman Bill Shuster presented the Greenwood Volunteer Fire Department with a $53,000 grant to purchase new hose line, breathing apparatus and an upgraded thermal imaging camera. Greenwood Fire Company President Allan Bassler says without the grant, the company would have been waiting more than a year for their new equipment.
Bassler
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsbassler3910.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Congressman Shuster says the money came from the Department of Homeland Security’s Firefighter Assistance Program.
PA Mayors Go to Capitol Seeking More Taxing Power Chris Forshey/AP
Mayors of small and medium-sized Pennsylvania cities say the Legislature must allow them to raise new tax revenue to prevent more of them from falling into financial crisis.
More than two dozen mayors appeared Monday in the Capitol to push lawmakers to take action on bills that would help the cities get new revenue from sales taxes and reimbursements for tax-exempt properties.
Reading Mayor Tom McMahon says lawmakers need to acknowledge the crisis before crucial services in entire regions are in jeopardy. Reading was recently declared distressed under a state law. The mayors say they aren't looking for a bailout, but need the tools to help themselves.
The cities get a large portion of their income from property taxes.
Roethlisberger Attorney: 'No Sexual Assault' Chris Forshey/AP
The high-profile attorney representing Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is disputing a woman's claim that the Super Bowl MVP sexually assaulted her at a Georgia nightclub.
Police are investigating the 20-year-old college student's claim that Roethlisberger sexually assaulted her early Friday. Roethlisberger has not been charged. In a statement Monday, high-profile Atlanta attorney Ed Garland says there was "no criminal activity" and Roethlisberger is "completely innocent of any crime." Garland also says no sexual assault occurred.
Also Monday, the police chief of the Georgia college town where the investigation is under way says detectives hope to interview Roethlisberger in the next several days.
PA Democrats Pick Critz as Nominee to Fill Murtha Seat Chris Forshey/AP
Pennsylvania Democrats have chosen former congressional aide Mark Critz as the nominee for a special election to fill the U.S. House seat vacated by the February 8th death of John Murtha.
Following a telephone vote on Monday, party officials cited Critz's victory in a nonbinding straw poll by local party members over the weekend. Democratic party chairman T.J. Rooney said the party looks forward to a "spirited and exciting" race but Critz would be "a phenomenal candidate." Critz, of Johnstown, won 46 of the 83 votes cast at a meeting Saturday in Delmont, about 20 miles east of Pittsburgh. He was a longtime aide of Murtha's and had been endorsed by the late congressman's widow.
Former state treasurer and auditor general Barbara Hafer received 22 votes and Cambria County controller Ed Cernic took 14.
March 8, 2010
Altoona Hit And Run Under Investigation Craig Schaffer
The investigation into a hit and run in Altoona late last week continues.
According to city police, around 9:50 Friday night a female pedestrian was struck by a car as she stepped out to cross Burgoon Road in the area of the 6th Avenue intersection. The car had been traveling west on 6th Avenue and turned south onto Burgoon Road. After the impact with the pedestrian, the car continued on Burgoon Road toward Logan Boulevard.
The vehicle is described as a newer model, bluish gray sedan and it may have a damaged front end or passenger side. The driver is described as a white female in her 20’s with blond hair.
The pedestrian sustained a minor head injury.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Altoona Police Department at 949-2489.
Critz Wins Dems' Straw Poll To Fill Murtha Seat Craig Schaffer/ap
Former congressional aide Mark Critz has won a nonbinding straw vote by Democrats in the 12th District seeking a nominee to fill the U.S. House seat vacated by the Feb. 8 death of John Murtha.
Critz, of Johnstown, won 46 of the 83 votes cast Saturday in Delmont, about 20 miles east of Pittsburgh. Critz was a longtime aide of Murtha's and had been endorsed by the late congressman's widow.
Former state treasurer and auditor general Barbara Hafer received 22 votes, Cambria County controller Ed Cernic took 14, and Washington County businessman Ryan Bucchianeria received one.
The state Democratic Party's executive committee is expected to name a nominee Monday for the May 18 special election.
Prospective Republican candidates for the seat include William Russell, who unsuccessfully challenged Murtha in 2008, and Eighty Four businessman Tim Burns.
PA Amnesty to Help State Treasury and Tax Dodgers Craig Schaffer/AP
If you owe back state taxes, now isn't the time to get right with the Revenue Department.
Pennsylvania plans to launch a tax amnesty program on April 26th, so letting your tax debt gather dust for those few additional weeks could save you serious money.
During the 54-day amnesty period, all penalties and half the interest will be waived for businesses and individuals that pay off delinquent taxes accrued through June 2009. For the cash-hungry state treasury, the benefit is a projected spike in tax collections that is expected to generate an additional $190-million to help offset spending in the fiscal year that began July 1st.
Pennsylvania's latest amnesty program was born during the political stalemate that held up passage of the state budget for four months. Its biggest impetus was last year's hugely successful amnesty program next door in New Jersey, which raked in a record $725-million in six weeks.
Prosecution Rests In Legislative Corruption Trial Craig Schaffer/AP
The Pennsylvania attorney general's office is done putting on its case in the theft, conspiracy and conflict-of-interest trial of a former state representative and three former legislative aides.
Prosecution testimony wrapped up Friday after five weeks with investigators being quizzed by defense attorneys about financial records those investigators generated and displayed for jurors.
Defendants Mike Veon, Brett Cott, Annamarie Perretta-Rosepink and Steve Keefer are expected to begin calling their own witnesses today.
Veon's attorney says he wants to know why a prosecution list of alleged bonuses for campaign work didn't include some people on a list of campaign volunteers, and why some people who got supposed campaign bonuses weren't on that list.
Veon is the former No. 2 ranking House Democrat. He lost re-election in 2006.
March 5, 2010
Jurors Convict Local Man in Shootout with Altoona Police Chris Forshey
A Blair County jury has convicted an Altoona man on one of three attempted homicide charges in connection with a 2008 gun battle with three city police officers.
Jurors on Thursday also convicted 37-year-old John Ray on three counts each of aggravated assault, reckless endangerment and having a stolen weapon. Ray took the stand in his own defense shortly before closing arguments yesterday morning and told the jurors that he didn’t fire on the officers after he ran away from them while being searched during a routine traffic stop.
District Attorney Richard Consiglio called Ray’s testimony false and said the evidence in the case spoke for itself.
Consiglio
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsconsig3510.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Ray also claimed he was stopped because he was black and the officers where white. Consiglio says the jury didn’t buy that argument and race was never a factor. Ray’s public defenders didn’t stop to talk to reports. Ray could spend the rest of his life behind bars for the multiple convictions.
More PA Jobs Lost in 2009 than Initially Thought Chris Forshey/AP
The state Labor and Industry Department is newly estimating that Pennsylvania employers shed 195,000 jobs in 2009, or better than one in 30.
The new estimate released Thursday, however, also said employers added nearly 10,000 jobs to payrolls in January.
The department had previously estimated that employers shed about 150,000 jobs in 2009. The state's 5.56 million jobs on record in January is the fewest since March 1999. The department said the unemployment rate was 8.8-percent in December and January after initially setting it at 8.9-percent in December.
The new estimates reflect an ann ual adjustment the department carries out to try to most accurately reflect all the data it collected during the year.
Residents Asked to Participate in Recycling Survey Chris Forshey
Residents living in the City of Altoona, Hollidaysburg, Logan Township and Tyrone are being asked to participate in a new survey aimed at improving their local curbside recycling programs.
Intermunicipal Relations Committee Director John Frederick says officials want to make sure residents have the right bins to make it convenient for their continued participation in the recycling programs.
Frederick
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsfrederick3510.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Frederick says there will be quality assurance questions for residents to answer. If you would like to participate you take the survey online at www.ircenvironment.org or visit any of the four municipal buildings.
Local Students Travel to Germany for Mind Competition Chris Forshey
A group of sixth graders from Blair County got a big sendoff Thursday as they departed for Germany to compete in an international mind competition.
Seven classmates from Foot of Ten Elementary School in Duncansville are attending the event – and they are the only team from the United States competing in this year’s International Odyssey of the Mind competition. The team will have the opportunity to meet and compete against other students from around the world. The girl’s have been training together for years to prepare for the competition.
Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving competition involving students from kindergarten through college who work together at length to solve a predefined problem. They then present their solution to the problem at the competition.
Prosecutors Out of Suit Filed By Ex-Penn State Player Chris Forshey/AP
A federal judge removed a former district attorney and his assistant as defendants in a civil lawsuit filed by a former Penn State running back.
Judge James McClure Jr. in Williamsport ruled former Centre County District Attorney Michael Madeira and former assistant Lance Marshall had prosecutorial immunity in pursuing a rape charge against former tailback Austin Scott. The criminal case, filed in October 2007, was withdrawn six months later.
Scott hoped to play in the NFL. His suit claims the rape allegations caused him to suffer mental pain and suffering, as well as diminished earning capacity. The judge on Wednesday agreed with motions to dismiss from Madeira, Marshall and Centre County.
Penn State, university police and the alleged victim from the criminal case remain as defendants.
PA Political Activist Makes Statement with New Prop Chris Forshey/AP
An outspoken Pennsylvania political activist is at it again.
Gene Stilp – the Dauphin County man who introduced taxpayers to the giant inflatable pink pig during the 2005 pay raise controversy – is hitting the streets with a new message for state lawmakers. Stilp’s prop this time -- a giant 25-foot metal screw.
Stilp says the taxpayers are being “screwed” because Harrisburg has done nothing to ease the pain of electricity rate caps that are beginning to expire. He referenced Pennsylvania Power & Light customers, who recently saw their electricity bills jump 30-percent since January 1st, when rate caps expired.
On Thursday, Stilp drove the giant screw, which is belted to the roof of his pickup truck, around Harrisburg and made a stop at the Capitol. He also set up a burn barrel nearby to torch an old PP&L electric bill.
15 States, D.C. Named 'Race to the Top' Finalists Chris Forshey/AP
The U.S. Department of Education has named Pennsylvania one of the finalists in the first round of its "Race to the Top" competition, which will deliver $4.35-billion in school reform grants.
In all, 15 states and the District of Columbia were chosen as finalists from a pool of 41 applicants. The winners will be chosen in April.
The grants are designed to reward and spur states to lift student achievement by developing strong standards, getting high-quality teachers in the classroom, and turning around low-performing schools. The money is part of President Barack Obama's economic stimulus law.
A second round of applications will be accepted in June.
March 4, 2010
Tip Leads To Drug Arrests In Altoona Craig Schaffer
Four people are in jail today as a result of a drug bust Wednesday in Altoona.
Around 5:30pm Altoona police followed up on a tip that drugs were being dealt in the area of the 100 block of East Maple Avenue. Rachel Lateri, David Walter, David Gentry, and Brett Andrews were all arrested. $500 and 60 grams of marijuana were confiscated at the scene.
All four suspects have been placed in Blair County Prison and face possession with intent to deliver charges.
City Councilman Laid to Rest Chris Forshey
An Altoona City councilman who died unexpectedly last week has been laid to rest.
More than 300 people gathered Wednesday at Calvary Baptist Church in Altoona for the funeral of Jason Ibrahim. The 29-year-old Ibrahim died Friday from an undetected heard condition. Friends and family members recalled the father of three as a man dedicated to his family, church and community.
Altoona Mayor Bill Schirf, former councilman Matt Garber and 30th District State Senator John Eichelberger were among those who spoke at the funeral service. Ibrahim was buried at Grandview Cemetery in Logan Township.
Ibrahim had served on city council for just two months. He was elected to his first four-year term in November.
Congressman Murtha Honored at Capitol Hill Tribute Chris Forshey/AP
The late Representative John Murtha was honored by colleagues and other dignitaries at a Capitol Hill ceremony on Wednesday.
Vice President Joe Biden, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Defense Secretary Robert Gates were among those who attended the event Wednesday in the Capitol.
The Johnstown Democrat was the powerful chairman of a defense appropriations panel. He died last month at age 77 after complications from gallbladder surgery. Murtha was a former Marine who became a leading advocate for veterans on Capitol Hill and later an outspoken and influential critic of the Iraq War.
His opposition rattled many in Washington, where he enjoyed bipartisan respect for his work on military issues. Murtha was an officer in the Marine Reserves in 1974 when he became the first Vietnam War combat veteran elected to Congress.
Defense to Present Evidence in John Ray Case Chris Forshey
Defense attorneys are expected to begin presenting their side of the story in the attempted homicide case of John Ray – he’s the Philadelphia man involved in a shootout with Altoona Police more than a year ago.
Several forensics experts took the stand Wednesday during day three of the trial. One gun expert told the jury that he examined a total of 34 bullet casings and nine of the shots were fired from Ray’s gun. Ray was shot four times by city police. Officers say Ray opened fire on them as he was attempting to run away during a traffic stop.
Another expert said Ray’s hand tested negative for gunshot residue – and there were no identifiable fingerprints on the gun or shell casings. The experts also made it clear ray had a sponge bath in the hospital after being wounded and that could have compromised the evidence. Prosecutors say the gun Ray is accused of firing is believed to be stolen out of Lancaster County. Day four of testimony gets underway this morning.
Police: Found Wallet Contained Cocaine Chris Forshey
Police say a juvenile’s wallet found along a busy interstate ramp contained drugs.
State Police at Hollidaysburg say the pink wallet was found around 8:00PM Tuesday along the Plank Road on-ramp to Interstate 99. Troopers made the discovery while trying to find the wallet’s owner. They say it contained a small plastic bag with approximately one ounce of cocaine.
Charges could be filed against the juvenile. The investigation continues.
Blair Seeking Half-Million in Snow Removal Costs from FEMA Chris Forshey
Blair County is applying for nearly a half-million dollars from the federal government to help with snow cleanup costs from two storms in February.
Emergency Management Director Dan Boyles says 22 of the counties 24 municipal operations that are applying for the funding are eligible for a combined $487,000. But Boyles says it’s not quite a done deal just yet.
Boyles
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsboyles030410.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
The City of Altoona’s request for assistance makes up about a forth of the total amount. Boyles says if a federal disaster area is declared in Pennsylvania from the two storms, then the funding should come through – providing the proper paperwork is in place.
March 3, 2010
Natural Gas Rate Hike Expected Craig Schaffer
If you heat your home with natural gas, you may want to buy a new pair of “long johns”.
A 12.3 rate percent increase could kick in this October for customers of Peoples Natural Gas.
The average residential customer could end up paying $9.25 more a month for heat if the projected rate increase goes through.
Increased demand due to a recovering economy and a very cold winter season are two reasons being cited for the probable increase.
Altoona Drug Suspect takes Plea Deal Chris Forshey
A local drug suspect on trial this week in Blair County Court has pleaded guilty to the felony narcotics charges.
Prosecutors say after a full day of testimony on Monday, Ivan Crockett walked into court yesterday and decided to accept a plea deal. Crockett will spend seven to 15 years in prison. Altoona Police arrested Crockett last year for dealing drugs out of his Chestnut Avenue home. A raid turned up the drugs. He had been under surveillance for nearly nine months.
Prosecutors call Crockett a major dealer. He isn’t out of the woods just yet. Crockett still has to answer to illegal gun charges and assaulting a witness in the drug case.
Brothers Accused of Teaming Up In Local Jewelry Heist Craig Schaffer
Two Altoona brothers are facing charges in connection with the theft of thousands of dollars worth of jewelry from a Logan Township Home.
Police say John and Cory Horon of 718 North 20th Street stole between $50,000 and $100,000 worth of jewelry from a relative’s home while they were away on vacation.
Court documents show that the theft was reported last month by another relative who was checking on the house while the residents were away. A police investigation found that a hacksaw had been used to cut through a closet door's deadbolt lock. The Horon brothers were suspects because they had access to the home.
After both brothers made confessions concerning the crime they were charged with criminal conspiracy, receiving stolen property, theft and criminal mischief.
Day 3: John Ray Attempted Murder Case Chris Forshey
The trial of a Philadelphia man accused of opening fire on four Altoona Police officers continues today in Blair County Court.
It was a brief day of testimony on Tuesday in John Ray’s case because the judge had personal business to deal with. Police say Ray opened fire on them while running away from a traffic stop last year along 14th Street in the city. Officers returned fire and struck Ray four times. He’s now in a wheelchair recovering from his injuries.
The woman who was with Ray during the incident and a 14th Street resident testified Tuesday in the case. The resident says it appears police might have fired first, but he admits he didn’t see the whole incident go down. Ray is facing attempted murder charges. Day three of testimony begins this morning.
Blair Leaders Find Creative Way to Demolish City Home Chris Forshey
The Blair County Commissioners may have found a creative way to demolish a condemned home in the city at no cost to local taxpayers.
Commissioner Terry Tomassetti says the county has worked out an agreement to buy a property at 606 Eighth Avenue from the tax delinquent repository for just $1-dollar. Then Tomassetti says the county will enter an agreement with Thomas Bisignano III of Altoona to pay for the costs to demolish the house to city specifications. Tomassetti says when that is completed then the county will give him the property.
Tomassetti
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newstomassetti3310.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
City council and the Altoona School District have already signed off on the agreement. Tomassetti says Bisignano has a property next door and wants to acquire the parcel and to his business.
Blair Considers Using Prison Inmates to Clean Judicial Offices Chris Forshey
Blair County officials are exploring the idea of using county prison inmates to clean the offices of six magisterial district judges’.
Warden Michael Johnston says the proposal has been under consideration for a while – and he has inmates willing to do the work. Commissioner Terry Tomassetti says the move would save tens of thousands of dollars in outside contracts per year. But he says there are several issues that need to be worked out.
Tomassetti
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newstomassetti3310b.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Tomassetti says safety is also an issue. He says only trusted inmates could participate and each would have to be screened for contraband as they enter and leave the facilities. County leaders will seek bids from private contractors when taking the issue under formal consideration.
March 2, 2010
Machine Catches Fire At Local Shoe Company Craig Schaffer
Emergency crews were called out early this morning to a Blair County manufacturer.
Around 4:15 a cement machine at Cove Shoe Company on Highland Street in Martinsburg malfunctioned and caught fire. Company officials tell WRTA News that the fire was put out by two sprinklers that were activated. Damage was contained to the one machine and a workbench. No one was injured and by 7am everything was back to normal.
Snowstorms Move AASD Graduation to June 8th Chris Forshey
Recent snowstorms have forced a change in the Altoona Area School District’s 2010 commencement ceremonies.
District spokesman Tom Bradley says seniors will now graduate a day later than previously planned.
Bradley
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsbradley3210.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
Bradley says if the district incurs anymore snow cancellations, the make-up days will be tacked onto the end of the school year. The district will hold classes this Friday and the Monday after Easter to make up two other snow days.
Viewing/Funeral Plans Set for Councilman Chris Forshey
Viewing services begin today for an Altoona City Councilman who died unexpectedly.
Family members and friends of Jason Ibrahim will be received from 1:00PM to 3:00PM and 5:00PM to 8:00PM at Calvary Baptist Church on Ruskin Drive. Funeral services are set for 10:00AM Wednesday at the church. The public is invited to attend.
The 29-year-old Ibrahim died unexpectedly of natural causes at his Juniata home Friday night. An autopsy revealed that Ibrahim had an undetected heart condition. He was elected to city council in November, and took his seat in January.
A benefit fund has been established to support Ibrahim’s wife and three young children. You can find the link to the benefit site on our website.
Local Organization Offers Prescription Discount Cards Chris Forshey
If you need some help paying for prescription drugs a local agency might be able to help you out.
The United Way of Blair County is now offering prescription discount cards to local residents. Officials say there are no income guidelines and the average person can save about 25-percent off their pharmacy bill, depending on the type of medication.
The cards are available to those who have no medical health insurance and those who have trouble paying through the Medicare program. If you would like more information you can contact your local United Way office.
Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Arrests Over The Weekend Craig Schaffer
A routine traffic stop in Altoona over the weekend resulted in drug charges being filed against two men.
22 year old Wilson Osemwegie, of 1026 4th Avenue, was stopped by Altoona police Sunday evening on the 1000 block of 4th avenue.
Osemwegie didn’t have a valid driver’s license and during the stop officers noticed a plastic bag on the floor of the car. Upon further investigation it was determined that the bag held 11 ecstasy pills packaged for sale.
Osemwegie and a passenger in his car, 21 year old Darrell Phillips of Bronx New York now face various charges including criminal conspiracy and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.
Operation Our Town Announces Funding Opportunity Craig Schaffer
Operation Our Town has established a funding opportunity to support prevention programs proven to prevent drug use, treatment programs proven to reduce relapse, and programs aimed at the reduction of blight within Blair County communities. The funding opportunity will be made available on a bi-annual cycle.
Up to $100,000 is available for prevention, treatment, and blight programs proven to reduce drugs and/or crime.
The grant fiscal period will be from July 2010 through June 30, 2011. All funds are required to be expended during this time period.
Non-profit organizations, schools, and government agencies are eligible. Previous grant recipients are also eligible to apply.
To fill out an application, visit www.OperationOurTown.org and click on the Funding/Partnership Request on the left-hand column of the homepage.
Jobless Benefits Shorten Amid Dispute in Congress Chris Forshey
Congress' failure to act means that tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians are scheduled to lose their unemployment benefits sooner than expected.
The state Department of Labor and Industry said Monday that payments will stop in March for an estimated 44,000 people.
It estimates that 161,000 people will lose their benefits by May 31. The federal expiration happened Sunday. Before that, people getting benefits were entitled to 99 weeks. Republican Senator Jim Bunning of Kentucky single-handedly blocked an extension because, he says, it would add to the deficit.
Members of Congress expect to resolve the dispute this week.
Judge Dismisses Two Charges Against Steelers' Kicker Chris Forshey/AP
A western Pennsylvania district judge has dismissed two charges against Steelers kicker Jeff Reed and postponed a decision on two summary offenses stemming from a scuffle with police outside a bar.
The judge in Pittsburgh on Monday threw out charges of simple assault and resisting arrest against Reed related to an October 18th incident near Heinz Field. Police said Reed took a "fighting stance" when officers arrived to cite Reed's teammate, backup tight end Matt Spaeth, for disorderly conduct for allegedly urinating in a parking lot.
Reed is also charged with disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.
March 01, 2010
Man Arrested for Dealing Crack out of City Hotel Room Chris Forshey
Altoona Police narcotics officers have arrested a man for allegedly dealing crack cocaine out of a city motel room.
Police caught the suspect – 36-year-old John Paul Dick of Hollidaysburg – in the act of ‘cutting the drug’ when they raided his room at the Quality Inn just after midnight Sunday.
Agents had been tipped-off about the drug activity after someone noticed a high amount of foot traffic between two different rooms and dialed 911. Officers seized 87 packets of heroin, nearly $9-thousand in cash and drug paraphernalia.
An unregistered semi-automatic handgun was also found in the room. Dick was arraigned in front of a judge and lodged in the Blair County Prison in lieu of bail.
Altoona City Officials Remember Young Councilman Staff
Altoona city leaders remain in shock following the sudden death of one of their newest council members on Friday night.
Mayor Bill Schirf called Jason Ibrahim a dedicated public servant, despite the fact that he had just begun his first term on council in January.
Schirf
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
url=http://www.webwiseforradio.com/site_files/359/File/newsschirf030110.mp3 width=300 height=150 loop=false play=false downloadable=false fullscreen=true displayNavigation=true displayDigits=true
The 29-year-old Ibrahim received the second-highest number of votes during the November election. Newly-elected city councilman Dave Butterbaugh says he enjoyed learning the inner-workings of city government with the New Jersey native.
Officials say the young councilman died of natural causes.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday from 1-3pm and 5-8pm at Calvary Baptist Church on Ruskin Drive in Altoona. The funeral service will be held at the church on Wednesday at 10 am. The public is invited to attend.
City Pharmacy Thief Arrested Craig Schaffer
The man city police were looking for in connection with the robbery of a pharmacy last month is now in custody.
In a coordinated effort with the state police, Altoona police arrested 34 year old Christopher Jackson at his Williamsburg home on Friday evening.
Police say Jackson used a knife to rob Thompson's Broad Avenue Pharmacy on February 13th. He got away with several botles of Suboxone.
Jackson has been charged with Robbery, Theft, Recklessly Endangering another Person, and Simple Assaault. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday.
Blair County Planning Commission Gets Their Man Craig Schaffer
There’s a new planning director in place on the Blair County Planning Commission.
David McFarland will officially take over the position later this month after filling the position in an interim basis since last summer.
Because of a Community Development Block Grant bookkeeping dispute last year, the state had been holding back funds, which led to the eventual resignation of longtime director Richard Haines. The issue has since been resolved and the funds have been released.
The commission oversees the CDBG program for Blair County on behalf of several municipalities.
McFarland, who will start at a salary of $57,500, previously worked in the Altoona planning department.
Detour Goes Into Effect for the Gaysport Bridge Replacement Project Craig Schaffer
PennDOT has announced that work will begin and a detour will go into effect on the Gaysport Bridge, in the Borough of Hollidaysburg today.
Traffic traveling east will use Bedford Street south to Route 36 to Plank Road. Traffic traveling west will use Plank Road to Route 36 south to Bedford Street.
This closure is necessary at this time for utility work to take place in the area of the bridge. Work will consist of a bridge replacement with surrounding roadway reconstruction. Work is anticipated to be completed by October. |
.jpg)
