Today's News/local from the Daily American and dailyamerican.com.
Updated: 21 min 32 sec ago
Pennsylvania's highway system ranked in bottom third
Pennsylvania ranks 38th in the nation in state highway performance and cost-effectiveness, according to the 19th annual highway report issued by the Reason Foundation.
But overall the nation's highway conditions are the best they've been in 19 years.
"Over the last several years, states invested a lot more money to improve pavement and bridges," report author David T. Hartgen said in a prepared statement. "Unfortunately, the recession is partly responsible for the improvement in road conditions: People are driving less, which has helped slow pavement deterioration and reduced traffic congestion and fatalities."
The study measures the condition and cost-effectiveness of state-owned roads in 11 categories. The Reason Foundation is a public policy think tank based in Los Angeles.
Pennsylvania is ranked 49th in deficient or functionally obsolete bridges.
Rich Kirkpatrick, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in Harrisburg, said Pennsylvania is making a lot of headway with its bridges. There are 5,646 bridges labeled "structurally deficient," the most of any state. For the first time in a decade, under Gov. Ed Rendell, bridges are being repaired or replaced and the structurally deficient numbers are beginning to fall.
The biggest issue for Pennsylvania is its narrow rural roads. The state is ranked 50th in rural roads. That stems back to the 1930s, when then Gov. Gifford Pinchot took many rural roads into the state system, Kirkpatrick said. The state never had the money to widen all those roads. The report also penalizes the state for spending $200 million a year on winter maintenance, but doesn't suggest an alternative for snow removal.
"We face a lot of challenges in Pennsylvania, but we are making progress over time," Kirkpatrick said. "To continue to make progress, more resources are needed. The governor has been saying that. This report confirms what he said."
Overall, the report ranks North Dakota as having the best highway system and Rhode Island as having the worst. Massachusetts has the safest roads with just 0.67 fatalities per 100 million miles driven. Montana has the highest fatality rate at 2.12 fatalities per million miles driven. Pennsylvania is ranked 30th in fatalities.
By VICKI ROCK
vickir@dailyamerican.com
This section of Carpenters Park road in Conemaugh Township exhibits some surface cracking near the bridge span. Pennsylvania ranks 38th in the nation in state highway performance and cost-effectiveness, according to a highway report issued by the Reason Foundation. (Staff photo by Roger Vogel)
But overall the nation's highway conditions are the best they've been in 19 years.
"Over the last several years, states invested a lot more money to improve pavement and bridges," report author David T. Hartgen said in a prepared statement. "Unfortunately, the recession is partly responsible for the improvement in road conditions: People are driving less, which has helped slow pavement deterioration and reduced traffic congestion and fatalities."
The study measures the condition and cost-effectiveness of state-owned roads in 11 categories. The Reason Foundation is a public policy think tank based in Los Angeles.
Pennsylvania is ranked 49th in deficient or functionally obsolete bridges.
Rich Kirkpatrick, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in Harrisburg, said Pennsylvania is making a lot of headway with its bridges. There are 5,646 bridges labeled "structurally deficient," the most of any state. For the first time in a decade, under Gov. Ed Rendell, bridges are being repaired or replaced and the structurally deficient numbers are beginning to fall.
The biggest issue for Pennsylvania is its narrow rural roads. The state is ranked 50th in rural roads. That stems back to the 1930s, when then Gov. Gifford Pinchot took many rural roads into the state system, Kirkpatrick said. The state never had the money to widen all those roads. The report also penalizes the state for spending $200 million a year on winter maintenance, but doesn't suggest an alternative for snow removal.
"We face a lot of challenges in Pennsylvania, but we are making progress over time," Kirkpatrick said. "To continue to make progress, more resources are needed. The governor has been saying that. This report confirms what he said."
Overall, the report ranks North Dakota as having the best highway system and Rhode Island as having the worst. Massachusetts has the safest roads with just 0.67 fatalities per 100 million miles driven. Montana has the highest fatality rate at 2.12 fatalities per million miles driven. Pennsylvania is ranked 30th in fatalities.
By VICKI ROCK
vickir@dailyamerican.com
This section of Carpenters Park road in Conemaugh Township exhibits some surface cracking near the bridge span. Pennsylvania ranks 38th in the nation in state highway performance and cost-effectiveness, according to a highway report issued by the Reason Foundation. (Staff photo by Roger Vogel)
Categories: News
War Memorial manager seeks greater community involvement in arena
JOHNSTOWN - Bringing minor league hockey back to Johnstown for a limited season will help boost revenue at the Cambria County War Memorial Arena but is not the long-term answer for success, said arena general manager Michael Silva.
Changing the way both the public and local businesses and institutions think about the arena will be the key.
"I've been introducing myself to community leaders," said Silva, who was named to the position in late June. "I want to end the sense of isolation the building seems to have. I want to open up the doors and have people look at it like a community center."
Robert Layo, president of the Greater Johnstown-Cambria County Chamber of Commerce, agreed with the concept.
"Look at some of the things we do here. There's the Showcase For Commerce. There's definitely more room to do things like that," Layo said.
Silva is a 15-year employee of SMG Sports and Entertainment, which took over management of the arena last summer.
He and his family moved into the area from Pittsburgh, where he served as SMG's director of operations at the University of Pittsburgh's Petersen Events Center.
"It has been awesome," Silva said of the move. "The entire community of Johnstown has been supportive and everyone wants the War Memorial to be successful. It's a good work environment."
On Wednesday the Wheeling Nailers - a Pittsburgh Penguins ECHL affiliate - held a press conference to promote holding 10 home games at the arena this year.
Couple that with a number of concerts and shows that are already scheduled and the arena is in a position to have a good year, Silva said.
"For us, bringing hockey of this caliber back to the arena means a lot," he said.
October concerts by the Christian rock band MercyMe and the Halloween Hootenanny Tour are already generating a lot of interest, he said.
The Halloween Hootenanny Tour features heavy metal stars Alice Cooper and Rob Zombie. The arena show will be the only tour stop in Pennsylvania, according to the arena website.
Comedian and puppeteer Jeff Dunham will also perform in October.
"I can tell you that through the end of the fall we'll hit every genre," Silva said.
Layo said that a strong events schedule helps local businesses.
"Obviously they benefit from that," he said. "We're going to support them any way we can."
The winter schedule is also filling out nicely with multiple local and school hockey leagues pressing for time on the ice, Silva said. Following hockey, the Johnstown Generals, an Ultimate Indoor Football League team, will take the field.
"Ultimately, we want a much more established program and to get the community involved," Silva said of his vision for the arena.
For more information about the Nailers games in Johnstown, visit www.wheelingnailers.com on the Web. To see the schedule of events and concerts at the arena, go to www.warmemorialarena.com. For more about the Johnstown Generals indoor football season, visit www.johnstowngenerals.com. By DAN DiPAOLO
dand@dailyamerican.com
Changing the way both the public and local businesses and institutions think about the arena will be the key.
"I've been introducing myself to community leaders," said Silva, who was named to the position in late June. "I want to end the sense of isolation the building seems to have. I want to open up the doors and have people look at it like a community center."
Robert Layo, president of the Greater Johnstown-Cambria County Chamber of Commerce, agreed with the concept.
"Look at some of the things we do here. There's the Showcase For Commerce. There's definitely more room to do things like that," Layo said.
Silva is a 15-year employee of SMG Sports and Entertainment, which took over management of the arena last summer.
He and his family moved into the area from Pittsburgh, where he served as SMG's director of operations at the University of Pittsburgh's Petersen Events Center.
"It has been awesome," Silva said of the move. "The entire community of Johnstown has been supportive and everyone wants the War Memorial to be successful. It's a good work environment."
On Wednesday the Wheeling Nailers - a Pittsburgh Penguins ECHL affiliate - held a press conference to promote holding 10 home games at the arena this year.
Couple that with a number of concerts and shows that are already scheduled and the arena is in a position to have a good year, Silva said.
"For us, bringing hockey of this caliber back to the arena means a lot," he said.
October concerts by the Christian rock band MercyMe and the Halloween Hootenanny Tour are already generating a lot of interest, he said.
The Halloween Hootenanny Tour features heavy metal stars Alice Cooper and Rob Zombie. The arena show will be the only tour stop in Pennsylvania, according to the arena website.
Comedian and puppeteer Jeff Dunham will also perform in October.
"I can tell you that through the end of the fall we'll hit every genre," Silva said.
Layo said that a strong events schedule helps local businesses.
"Obviously they benefit from that," he said. "We're going to support them any way we can."
The winter schedule is also filling out nicely with multiple local and school hockey leagues pressing for time on the ice, Silva said. Following hockey, the Johnstown Generals, an Ultimate Indoor Football League team, will take the field.
"Ultimately, we want a much more established program and to get the community involved," Silva said of his vision for the arena.
For more information about the Nailers games in Johnstown, visit www.wheelingnailers.com on the Web. To see the schedule of events and concerts at the arena, go to www.warmemorialarena.com. For more about the Johnstown Generals indoor football season, visit www.johnstowngenerals.com. By DAN DiPAOLO
dand@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
Bill would make it a felony to leave a child alone in a car
Pennsylvania lawmakers plan to introduce a bill that would make it a third-degree felony to leave a child alone in a car. The rule would apply to children as old as 13.
Sen. Robert Tomlinson, R-Bucks County, and Rep. Gene DiGirolamo, R-Bensalem, on Thursday announced plans to introduce legislation in their respective chambers
If a made a law, the measure would make it a felony of the third degree to leave a child under age 13 in a motor vehicle without adult supervision. A third-degree felony can result in a prison term of 3 1/2 to 7 years and a fine of up to $15,000. It is currently a misdemeanor.
They said the measure is needed to serve as a strong deterrent for gamblers who visit casinos and leave children behind in the parking lot. There have been several incidents when adults left children unattended in the parking lot at Parx Casino in Bensalem. A time frame was not given.
"It points at the problem of people leaving small children unattended in a car and creates an enhanced penalty for individuals who leave children in cars," Fran Cleaver, legal council for Tomlinson said.
Cleaver said the legislators hear stories of people leaving children in cars at shopping malls, convenience stores. One child was in a car for six hours at a Philadelphia park.
"They believe through enhanced penalties, appropriate signage and beefed up controls (they may) eradicate the problem," Cleaver said.
Cleaver said age 13 was chosen because the law recognizes that as the age of reason.
"At 13 years old you might have the ability to realize you are in a car and your parents aren't coming back," she said. "Younger children might not."
The law will allow law enforcement to use discretion whether a person is being reckless, Cleaver said.
"They use their discretion and the judiciary system uses their discretion," she said.
The action may help families get help for various other issues such as alcohol or other addictions, Cleaver explained.
"Generally the incident proves to be an opportunity for the family to receive appropriate help," she said.
State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar, R-Allegheny Township, said he has not read the language of the legislation.
"Nobody wants to see kids in danger," he said. "You can't legislate common sense for people who are going to a casino and letting their kids sit in a car."
He said raising the penalty from a misdemeanor to a felony may not make a difference.
"I don't think the person irresponsible enough to let their child in the car is going to know the difference," he said. "They're irresponsible."
State Rep. Frank Burns, D-East Taylor Township, did not return a telephone call seeking comment. By MICHELLE GANASSI
michelleg@dailyamerican.com
Sen. Robert Tomlinson, R-Bucks County, and Rep. Gene DiGirolamo, R-Bensalem, on Thursday announced plans to introduce legislation in their respective chambers
If a made a law, the measure would make it a felony of the third degree to leave a child under age 13 in a motor vehicle without adult supervision. A third-degree felony can result in a prison term of 3 1/2 to 7 years and a fine of up to $15,000. It is currently a misdemeanor.
They said the measure is needed to serve as a strong deterrent for gamblers who visit casinos and leave children behind in the parking lot. There have been several incidents when adults left children unattended in the parking lot at Parx Casino in Bensalem. A time frame was not given.
"It points at the problem of people leaving small children unattended in a car and creates an enhanced penalty for individuals who leave children in cars," Fran Cleaver, legal council for Tomlinson said.
Cleaver said the legislators hear stories of people leaving children in cars at shopping malls, convenience stores. One child was in a car for six hours at a Philadelphia park.
"They believe through enhanced penalties, appropriate signage and beefed up controls (they may) eradicate the problem," Cleaver said.
Cleaver said age 13 was chosen because the law recognizes that as the age of reason.
"At 13 years old you might have the ability to realize you are in a car and your parents aren't coming back," she said. "Younger children might not."
The law will allow law enforcement to use discretion whether a person is being reckless, Cleaver said.
"They use their discretion and the judiciary system uses their discretion," she said.
The action may help families get help for various other issues such as alcohol or other addictions, Cleaver explained.
"Generally the incident proves to be an opportunity for the family to receive appropriate help," she said.
State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar, R-Allegheny Township, said he has not read the language of the legislation.
"Nobody wants to see kids in danger," he said. "You can't legislate common sense for people who are going to a casino and letting their kids sit in a car."
He said raising the penalty from a misdemeanor to a felony may not make a difference.
"I don't think the person irresponsible enough to let their child in the car is going to know the difference," he said. "They're irresponsible."
State Rep. Frank Burns, D-East Taylor Township, did not return a telephone call seeking comment. By MICHELLE GANASSI
michelleg@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
Single flu shot will suffice for most
Although some pharmacies are advertising that flu vaccinations are now available, this may be a little too early to get a flu shot
"Will you still be protected in February and March or will it wane before then?" said Holli Senior, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Health. "If you see it available locally, go ahead and get it. But as far as the state system, vaccinations won't be given until closer to the end of September. We recommend people get them in late September or early October, before families gather for the holidays."
Last year people were to get two vaccinations: one for H1N1 flu and the other for seasonal flu. Both are incorporated in this year's vaccine, so people will only need one. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are recommending that everyone age 6 months or older get the flu shot, unless they are allergic to eggs. That is a change from previous years, which stressed the need for vaccination for a few groups.
Children between 6 months and 9 years who have never been vaccinated, or who only received the H1N1 flu shot last year, should get two doses. This year an alternative vaccine that provides a higher dosage will be available for people age 65 or older.
A RAND Corp. survey finds that many adults chose not to get a flu vaccine last year. Even with the threat of H1N1 flu, only 32 percent of adults surveyed had been vaccinated by November. The CDC estimated that 60 million Americans had contracted the H1N1 virus by March, more than 270,000 had been hospitalized and there were about 12,270 flu-related deaths. Epidemiologists say it is difficult to predict whether the 2010-11 flu season will be as severe.
"Some people just look at the flu as a mere nuisance, so they don't feel vaccination is important," said Tom Skinner, senior public affairs officer with the CDC. "But we know it can be life-threatening."
Because of last year's H1N1 flu threat, the federal government paid for the flu vaccine and public health clinics were held where people got the shots for free. This year the process will be the same as previous years, Senior said. The state will purchase a small amount of vaccine for special groups of people who otherwise don't have the means to get one. Everyone else should get one from their family physician or when pharmacies and supermarkets have flu shot clinics.
"Every year we have an unpredictable flu season," Senior said. "One good thing this year is they don't anticipate a shortage of vaccine. And the vaccine will cover three strains: H1N1, H2N3 and the B-type."
If people aren't able to find a flu vaccine provider in their area, they may check the Health Department's flu-finder site at www.health.state.pa.us or call 1-877-pahealth.
By VICKI ROCK
vickir@dailyamerican.com
"Will you still be protected in February and March or will it wane before then?" said Holli Senior, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Health. "If you see it available locally, go ahead and get it. But as far as the state system, vaccinations won't be given until closer to the end of September. We recommend people get them in late September or early October, before families gather for the holidays."
Last year people were to get two vaccinations: one for H1N1 flu and the other for seasonal flu. Both are incorporated in this year's vaccine, so people will only need one. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are recommending that everyone age 6 months or older get the flu shot, unless they are allergic to eggs. That is a change from previous years, which stressed the need for vaccination for a few groups.
Children between 6 months and 9 years who have never been vaccinated, or who only received the H1N1 flu shot last year, should get two doses. This year an alternative vaccine that provides a higher dosage will be available for people age 65 or older.
A RAND Corp. survey finds that many adults chose not to get a flu vaccine last year. Even with the threat of H1N1 flu, only 32 percent of adults surveyed had been vaccinated by November. The CDC estimated that 60 million Americans had contracted the H1N1 virus by March, more than 270,000 had been hospitalized and there were about 12,270 flu-related deaths. Epidemiologists say it is difficult to predict whether the 2010-11 flu season will be as severe.
"Some people just look at the flu as a mere nuisance, so they don't feel vaccination is important," said Tom Skinner, senior public affairs officer with the CDC. "But we know it can be life-threatening."
Because of last year's H1N1 flu threat, the federal government paid for the flu vaccine and public health clinics were held where people got the shots for free. This year the process will be the same as previous years, Senior said. The state will purchase a small amount of vaccine for special groups of people who otherwise don't have the means to get one. Everyone else should get one from their family physician or when pharmacies and supermarkets have flu shot clinics.
"Every year we have an unpredictable flu season," Senior said. "One good thing this year is they don't anticipate a shortage of vaccine. And the vaccine will cover three strains: H1N1, H2N3 and the B-type."
If people aren't able to find a flu vaccine provider in their area, they may check the Health Department's flu-finder site at www.health.state.pa.us or call 1-877-pahealth.
By VICKI ROCK
vickir@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
Public invited to trail town planning meetings
Trail Town Preservation Program workshops have resurfaced.
A second - and final - round of workshops will be held Sept. 14 and 15 in three trail towns, including Confluence.
Planners will share ideas from a first round of public meetings and seek additional input. The information will be used to preserve the heritage and historic resources of towns along the Great Allegheny Passage.
About 30 people attended the first preservation program workshop, which focused specifically on Somerset County. From that discussion, planners identified several community problems and outlined ways to fix them. They are hoping for a bigger turnout at this month's meetings.
"I can't stress enough that residents and businesses from Meyersdale, Rockwood and Confluence should come out and see what is in the works and give their feedback," program manager Amy Camp said Friday.
The workshops are part of a process to develop a plan to preserve the rich architectural and historical resources of six towns along the Great Allegheny Passage, Camp said. The towns are Confluence, Rockwood and Meyersdale in Somerset County; Connellsville and Ohiopyle in Fayette County; and West Newton in Westmoreland County.
Community input will only enhance the plan, she said.
"It will be a blueprint for preserving our heritage and our built environment," Camp said.
The broader goal is to promote tourism, stimulate the economy and support environmental sustainability, Somerset County Trail Coordinator Brett Hollern said.
"In general if people take a broader look at these workshops they will realize it is not just in relationship with the trail, there is a good bit of value for the towns themselves," he said.
The project is funded by the Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation, the Preserve America Program of the National Park Service and Preservation Pennsylvania. It is administered by Preservation Pennsylvania with assistance from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Trail Town Program.
The public sessions will be as follows:
Confluence: 6:30 p.m. Sept. 15 at the Turkeyfoot Valley Historical Society, 600 Logan St.
West Newton: 6:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Christ Lutheran Church, Vine and 3rd streets
Ohiopyle: noon Sept. 15 at the Ohiopyle-Stewart Community Center, 15 Sherman St.
By JUDY D.J. ELLICH
judye@dailyamerican.com
A second - and final - round of workshops will be held Sept. 14 and 15 in three trail towns, including Confluence.
Planners will share ideas from a first round of public meetings and seek additional input. The information will be used to preserve the heritage and historic resources of towns along the Great Allegheny Passage.
About 30 people attended the first preservation program workshop, which focused specifically on Somerset County. From that discussion, planners identified several community problems and outlined ways to fix them. They are hoping for a bigger turnout at this month's meetings.
"I can't stress enough that residents and businesses from Meyersdale, Rockwood and Confluence should come out and see what is in the works and give their feedback," program manager Amy Camp said Friday.
The workshops are part of a process to develop a plan to preserve the rich architectural and historical resources of six towns along the Great Allegheny Passage, Camp said. The towns are Confluence, Rockwood and Meyersdale in Somerset County; Connellsville and Ohiopyle in Fayette County; and West Newton in Westmoreland County.
Community input will only enhance the plan, she said.
"It will be a blueprint for preserving our heritage and our built environment," Camp said.
The broader goal is to promote tourism, stimulate the economy and support environmental sustainability, Somerset County Trail Coordinator Brett Hollern said.
"In general if people take a broader look at these workshops they will realize it is not just in relationship with the trail, there is a good bit of value for the towns themselves," he said.
The project is funded by the Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation, the Preserve America Program of the National Park Service and Preservation Pennsylvania. It is administered by Preservation Pennsylvania with assistance from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Trail Town Program.
The public sessions will be as follows:
By JUDY D.J. ELLICH
judye@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
Que rec area seeing heavy use
RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - The summer season at the Quemahoning Family Recreation Area has been a success going into an already strong Labor Day weekend, according to officials.
Site improvements and increased public awareness among local organizations helped to make the summer one of the most well-attended, said Jason Smith, an employee of recreation area caretaker Summer's Best 2 Weeks.
"There are all kinds of groups using the park," Smith said. "They're also using it for a number of different reasons."
Tracking shows groups coming to the Quemahoning Reservoir to picnic, fish, canoe, camp, hold company picnics and even for church services.
Churches, Scout troops, college clubs, businesses and local social services are among those taking advantage of the playing fields, camping, pavilions and other amenities, according to a report submitted to site owner Cambria Somerset Authority.
"The park looks good," authority Chairman James Greco said. "It's been well-maintained this year."
A total of 2,004 day passes and 285 season passes were sold from April through August. The RV sites, tent sites and rustic cabins were rented 468 times and the pavilions saw use on 138 occasions.
The rec area has 40 tent sites, 23 RV spots, five pavilions and two rustic cabins.
The Labor Day weekend also looks like it will see heavy use, Greco said.
"The pavilions are sold out. I know because I called three weeks ago and tried to get one," he said.
The RV spots are also all reserved but there are tent sites available, Smith said.
Managers want to see increased use of the playing fields and athletic complex. Basketball, softball, volleyball and soccer are all available.
"We need to better market the soccer fields," Greco said. "It'd be a great place for the kids to practice."
This year saw the park make the jump online. In previous years, the authority was seeking physical improvements like roads, tent sites, a shower house, walking trails and electricity for the RV sites.
Now it's about reaching out to potential users and making the rental process easier, Smith said.
In May the website for the recreation area went live. It allows people to make reservations for tent sites, RV camping, pavilion use and rustic cabin rental.
For more information, visit www.Quefamilyrec.com on the Web.
By DAN DiPAOLO
dand@dailyamerican.com
Site improvements and increased public awareness among local organizations helped to make the summer one of the most well-attended, said Jason Smith, an employee of recreation area caretaker Summer's Best 2 Weeks.
"There are all kinds of groups using the park," Smith said. "They're also using it for a number of different reasons."
Tracking shows groups coming to the Quemahoning Reservoir to picnic, fish, canoe, camp, hold company picnics and even for church services.
Churches, Scout troops, college clubs, businesses and local social services are among those taking advantage of the playing fields, camping, pavilions and other amenities, according to a report submitted to site owner Cambria Somerset Authority.
"The park looks good," authority Chairman James Greco said. "It's been well-maintained this year."
A total of 2,004 day passes and 285 season passes were sold from April through August. The RV sites, tent sites and rustic cabins were rented 468 times and the pavilions saw use on 138 occasions.
The rec area has 40 tent sites, 23 RV spots, five pavilions and two rustic cabins.
The Labor Day weekend also looks like it will see heavy use, Greco said.
"The pavilions are sold out. I know because I called three weeks ago and tried to get one," he said.
The RV spots are also all reserved but there are tent sites available, Smith said.
Managers want to see increased use of the playing fields and athletic complex. Basketball, softball, volleyball and soccer are all available.
"We need to better market the soccer fields," Greco said. "It'd be a great place for the kids to practice."
This year saw the park make the jump online. In previous years, the authority was seeking physical improvements like roads, tent sites, a shower house, walking trails and electricity for the RV sites.
Now it's about reaching out to potential users and making the rental process easier, Smith said.
In May the website for the recreation area went live. It allows people to make reservations for tent sites, RV camping, pavilion use and rustic cabin rental.
For more information, visit www.Quefamilyrec.com on the Web.
By DAN DiPAOLO
dand@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
New grocery store opens
Valu King Food Market celebrated the grand opening of its new Johnstown location Thursday.
Located at 1910 Minno Drive in Westwood Plaza, the discount grocery store offers a mix of national and regional brands alongside its own brands, which include Food Club and Valu Time.
The grocery store also has a full-service deli, fresh cut and ground meat, and an assortment of produce, dairy and frozen items.
The store employs 48 people, is approximately 43,000 square feet and offers more than 7,000 items.
To keep prices low, Valu King does not utilize supermarket customer loyalty programs, and minimizes advertising and promotional activities. The store does not accept checks and encourages customers to bring their own traditional and reusable bags. If necessary, customers may purchase grocery bags for a fee.
Located at 1910 Minno Drive in Westwood Plaza, the discount grocery store offers a mix of national and regional brands alongside its own brands, which include Food Club and Valu Time.
The grocery store also has a full-service deli, fresh cut and ground meat, and an assortment of produce, dairy and frozen items.
The store employs 48 people, is approximately 43,000 square feet and offers more than 7,000 items.
To keep prices low, Valu King does not utilize supermarket customer loyalty programs, and minimizes advertising and promotional activities. The store does not accept checks and encourages customers to bring their own traditional and reusable bags. If necessary, customers may purchase grocery bags for a fee.
Categories: News
Food pantry needs manager
The Helping Hands Food Pantry and Thrift Shop in Boswell needs a new food manager.
Floyd Stottlemeyer, the former manager, left to go to divinity school at the end of August. He was there for two years.
"We're the second largest food pantry in Somerset County," said volunteer Georgia Sheftic. "We serve over 200 families a month. We've been very fortunate: This is only the second time in 25 years (that) we've had to advertise a need for a manager."
The pantry is open from 9 a.m. to noon the first four Thursdays each month. It is located at 301 Center St. The thrift shop has its own manager; the needed one is for the food pantry. It is a volunteer unpaid position. The manager has to do a small amount of record-keeping, has to be able to lift boxes and unload trucks, and will supervise 10 volunteers.
People interested in the manager's position should called Sheftic at 629-6238. If they want to talk to other board members for more information, they may contact Squire Ickes, Kia deVries or the Rev. Mike Dunlap.
Floyd Stottlemeyer, the former manager, left to go to divinity school at the end of August. He was there for two years.
"We're the second largest food pantry in Somerset County," said volunteer Georgia Sheftic. "We serve over 200 families a month. We've been very fortunate: This is only the second time in 25 years (that) we've had to advertise a need for a manager."
The pantry is open from 9 a.m. to noon the first four Thursdays each month. It is located at 301 Center St. The thrift shop has its own manager; the needed one is for the food pantry. It is a volunteer unpaid position. The manager has to do a small amount of record-keeping, has to be able to lift boxes and unload trucks, and will supervise 10 volunteers.
People interested in the manager's position should called Sheftic at 629-6238. If they want to talk to other board members for more information, they may contact Squire Ickes, Kia deVries or the Rev. Mike Dunlap.
Categories: News
Homeschool meeting
The monthly meeting of the Somerset Christian Homeschoolers will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in the basement of the Somerset Church of Christ.
Categories: News
Goose hunting at state park
Beginning Tuesday picnic areas three and four and Laurel Hill Lake will be open for early Canada goose hunting season. These areas will be marked with yellow Canada goose hunting signs. Hunters have until Sept. 25 to take advantage of the early opportunity to hunt geese at Laurel Hill State Park.
All Game Commission rules and regulations governing the early goose season will apply at state parks.
Non-migratory geese populations have increased drastically in recent years, causing crop damage, and nuisance problems in residential neighborhoods, according to the state. Park visitors often complain about goose excrement on state park beaches and other facilities, and water quality at some state parks has been adversely affected. For more information on hunting contact the park office at 445-7725.
All Game Commission rules and regulations governing the early goose season will apply at state parks.
Non-migratory geese populations have increased drastically in recent years, causing crop damage, and nuisance problems in residential neighborhoods, according to the state. Park visitors often complain about goose excrement on state park beaches and other facilities, and water quality at some state parks has been adversely affected. For more information on hunting contact the park office at 445-7725.
Categories: News
State police briefs
Somerset man uninjured in wreck
A Somerset man wasn't injured in a one-vehicle accident at 2:50 p.m. Wednesday on Trent Road in Jefferson Township.
Adam Bereider, 34, was northbound when his right front tire blew out. He lost control of his vehicle, which traveled off the right side of the road and struck the guide rail, state police said.
One hurt in Allegheny Township
One person was injured in a collision on Glen Savage Road in Allegheny Township at 4:31 p.m. Thursday.
Kathy Gooden, Fairhope, was northbound and sideswiped a vehicle driven by Christina Merkel, Fairhope, while on a curve, state police said. Merkel was slightly injured. The police report didn't say if she was transported to a hospital.
Copper pipe stolen
Copper pipe and tubing was stolen from a residence along Wamabugh Hollow Road near New Baltimore.
State police said the burglary happened on Monday. The residence is owned by Harry Caton, Edgewood, N.M.
Copper wire stolen
Burglars entered Russell Kerr's barn along Glencoe Road in Fairhope on Aug. 28 and stole three coils of copper wire, state police said. Kerr lives in Butler.
A Somerset man wasn't injured in a one-vehicle accident at 2:50 p.m. Wednesday on Trent Road in Jefferson Township.
Adam Bereider, 34, was northbound when his right front tire blew out. He lost control of his vehicle, which traveled off the right side of the road and struck the guide rail, state police said.
One hurt in Allegheny Township
One person was injured in a collision on Glen Savage Road in Allegheny Township at 4:31 p.m. Thursday.
Kathy Gooden, Fairhope, was northbound and sideswiped a vehicle driven by Christina Merkel, Fairhope, while on a curve, state police said. Merkel was slightly injured. The police report didn't say if she was transported to a hospital.
Copper pipe stolen
Copper pipe and tubing was stolen from a residence along Wamabugh Hollow Road near New Baltimore.
State police said the burglary happened on Monday. The residence is owned by Harry Caton, Edgewood, N.M.
Copper wire stolen
Burglars entered Russell Kerr's barn along Glencoe Road in Fairhope on Aug. 28 and stole three coils of copper wire, state police said. Kerr lives in Butler.
Categories: News
Spinnetts perform at Rockwood
The New Centerville Spinnetts will be presenting their 33rd annual baton twirling recital entitled "Twirling For Change Make A Wish" - Live Your Dream" at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Rockwood High School auditorium. Nine members of the Spinnetts will be performing in the Capital One Citrus Bowl halftime show on New Year's Day in Orlando, Fla. The New Centerville Spinnetts are under the direction of Becky Reckner.
Categories: News
Turkeyfoot receives grant
Forty Pennsylvania elementary schools, including Turkeyfoot Valley Area Elementary School, have been selected to receive an Active Schools grant for the 2010-11 school year, state Health Secretary Everette James announced.
The Active Schools Grant Program is designed to increase physical activity during the school day and allows schools to implement evidence-based physical activity programs. In its second year, the program will serve more than 17,000 elementary students.
Body mass index data submitted by the schools to the Department of Health indicate 15.22 percent of students in grades K-6 are overweight and another 16.6 percent are obese, which means just under 32 percent of those students are either overweight or obese. This rate declined slightly from the previous year, marking the first decline in BMI in many years.
Funding for Active Schools is made available through a public-private partnership between the departments of Health and Education and six foundations and health insurers. Schools receive a $5,000 grant from the Department of Health and an additional $10,000 from a match-funding organization in their region.
The Active Schools Grant Program is designed to increase physical activity during the school day and allows schools to implement evidence-based physical activity programs. In its second year, the program will serve more than 17,000 elementary students.
Body mass index data submitted by the schools to the Department of Health indicate 15.22 percent of students in grades K-6 are overweight and another 16.6 percent are obese, which means just under 32 percent of those students are either overweight or obese. This rate declined slightly from the previous year, marking the first decline in BMI in many years.
Funding for Active Schools is made available through a public-private partnership between the departments of Health and Education and six foundations and health insurers. Schools receive a $5,000 grant from the Department of Health and an additional $10,000 from a match-funding organization in their region.
Categories: News
Centers closed for Labor Day
All driver's license and photo centers will be closed today and Monday in observance of Labor Day, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services online through PennDOT's Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.state.pa.us.
Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services online through PennDOT's Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.state.pa.us.
Categories: News
Pennsylvania's highway system ranked in bottom third
Pennsylvania ranks 38th in the nation in state highway performance and cost-effectiveness, according to the 19th annual highway report issued by the Reason Foundation.
But overall the nation's highway conditions are the best they've been in 19 years.
"Over the last several years, states invested a lot more money to improve pavement and bridges," report author David T. Hartgen said in a prepared statement. "Unfortunately, the recession is partly responsible for the improvement in road conditions: People are driving less, which has helped slow pavement deterioration and reduced traffic congestion and fatalities."
The study measures the condition and cost-effectiveness of state-owned roads in 11 categories. The Reason Foundation is a public policy think tank based in Los Angeles.
Pennsylvania is ranked 49th in deficient or functionally obsolete bridges.
Rich Kirkpatrick, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in Harrisburg, said Pennsylvania is making a lot of headway with its bridges. There are 5,646 bridges labeled "structurally deficient," the most of any state. For the first time in a decade, under Gov. Ed Rendell, bridges are being repaired or replaced and the structurally deficient numbers are beginning to fall.
The biggest issue for Pennsylvania is its narrow rural roads. The state is ranked 50th in rural roads. That stems back to the 1930s, when then Gov. Gifford Pinchot took many rural roads into the state system, Kirkpatrick said. The state never had the money to widen all those roads. The report also penalizes the state for spending $200 million a year on winter maintenance, but doesn't suggest an alternative for snow removal.
"We face a lot of challenges in Pennsylvania, but we are making progress over time," Kirkpatrick said. "To continue to make progress, more resources are needed. The governor has been saying that. This report confirms what he said."
Overall, the report ranks North Dakota as having the best highway system and Rhode Island as having the worst. Massachusetts has the safest roads with just 0.67 fatalities per 100 million miles driven. Montana has the highest fatality rate at 2.12 fatalities per million miles driven. Pennsylvania is ranked 30th in fatalities.
By VICKI ROCK
vickir@dailyamerican.com
This section of Carpenters Park road in Conemaugh Township exhibits some surface cracking near the bridge span. Pennsylvania ranks 38th in the nation in state highway performance and cost-effectiveness, according to a highway report issued by the Reason Foundation. (Staff photo by Roger Vogel)
But overall the nation's highway conditions are the best they've been in 19 years.
"Over the last several years, states invested a lot more money to improve pavement and bridges," report author David T. Hartgen said in a prepared statement. "Unfortunately, the recession is partly responsible for the improvement in road conditions: People are driving less, which has helped slow pavement deterioration and reduced traffic congestion and fatalities."
The study measures the condition and cost-effectiveness of state-owned roads in 11 categories. The Reason Foundation is a public policy think tank based in Los Angeles.
Pennsylvania is ranked 49th in deficient or functionally obsolete bridges.
Rich Kirkpatrick, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in Harrisburg, said Pennsylvania is making a lot of headway with its bridges. There are 5,646 bridges labeled "structurally deficient," the most of any state. For the first time in a decade, under Gov. Ed Rendell, bridges are being repaired or replaced and the structurally deficient numbers are beginning to fall.
The biggest issue for Pennsylvania is its narrow rural roads. The state is ranked 50th in rural roads. That stems back to the 1930s, when then Gov. Gifford Pinchot took many rural roads into the state system, Kirkpatrick said. The state never had the money to widen all those roads. The report also penalizes the state for spending $200 million a year on winter maintenance, but doesn't suggest an alternative for snow removal.
"We face a lot of challenges in Pennsylvania, but we are making progress over time," Kirkpatrick said. "To continue to make progress, more resources are needed. The governor has been saying that. This report confirms what he said."
Overall, the report ranks North Dakota as having the best highway system and Rhode Island as having the worst. Massachusetts has the safest roads with just 0.67 fatalities per 100 million miles driven. Montana has the highest fatality rate at 2.12 fatalities per million miles driven. Pennsylvania is ranked 30th in fatalities.
By VICKI ROCK
vickir@dailyamerican.com
This section of Carpenters Park road in Conemaugh Township exhibits some surface cracking near the bridge span. Pennsylvania ranks 38th in the nation in state highway performance and cost-effectiveness, according to a highway report issued by the Reason Foundation. (Staff photo by Roger Vogel)
Categories: News
War Memorial manager seeks greater community involvement in arena
JOHNSTOWN - Bringing minor league hockey back to Johnstown for a limited season will help boost revenue at the Cambria County War Memorial Arena but is not the long-term answer for success, said arena general manager Michael Silva.
Changing the way both the public and local businesses and institutions think about the arena will be the key.
"I've been introducing myself to community leaders," said Silva, who was named to the position in late June. "I want to end the sense of isolation the building seems to have. I want to open up the doors and have people look at it like a community center."
Robert Layo, president of the Greater Johnstown-Cambria County Chamber of Commerce, agreed with the concept.
"Look at some of the things we do here. There's the Showcase For Commerce. There's definitely more room to do things like that," Layo said.
Silva is a 15-year employee of SMG Sports and Entertainment, which took over management of the arena last summer.
He and his family moved into the area from Pittsburgh, where he served as SMG's director of operations at the University of Pittsburgh's Petersen Events Center.
"It has been awesome," Silva said of the move. "The entire community of Johnstown has been supportive and everyone wants the War Memorial to be successful. It's a good work environment."
On Wednesday the Wheeling Nailers - a Pittsburgh Penguins ECHL affiliate - held a press conference to promote holding 10 home games at the arena this year.
Couple that with a number of concerts and shows that are already scheduled and the arena is in a position to have a good year, Silva said.
"For us, bringing hockey of this caliber back to the arena means a lot," he said.
October concerts by the Christian rock band MercyMe and the Halloween Hootenanny Tour are already generating a lot of interest, he said.
The Halloween Hootenanny Tour features heavy metal stars Alice Cooper and Rob Zombie. The arena show will be the only tour stop in Pennsylvania, according to the arena website.
Comedian and puppeteer Jeff Dunham will also perform in October.
"I can tell you that through the end of the fall we'll hit every genre," Silva said.
Layo said that a strong events schedule helps local businesses.
"Obviously they benefit from that," he said. "We're going to support them any way we can."
The winter schedule is also filling out nicely with multiple local and school hockey leagues pressing for time on the ice, Silva said. Following hockey, the Johnstown Generals, an Ultimate Indoor Football League team, will take the field.
"Ultimately, we want a much more established program and to get the community involved," Silva said of his vision for the arena.
For more information about the Nailers games in Johnstown, visit www.wheelingnailers.com on the Web. To see the schedule of events and concerts at the arena, go to www.warmemorialarena.com. For more about the Johnstown Generals indoor football season, visit www.johnstowngenerals.com. By DAN DiPAOLO
dand@dailyamerican.com
Changing the way both the public and local businesses and institutions think about the arena will be the key.
"I've been introducing myself to community leaders," said Silva, who was named to the position in late June. "I want to end the sense of isolation the building seems to have. I want to open up the doors and have people look at it like a community center."
Robert Layo, president of the Greater Johnstown-Cambria County Chamber of Commerce, agreed with the concept.
"Look at some of the things we do here. There's the Showcase For Commerce. There's definitely more room to do things like that," Layo said.
Silva is a 15-year employee of SMG Sports and Entertainment, which took over management of the arena last summer.
He and his family moved into the area from Pittsburgh, where he served as SMG's director of operations at the University of Pittsburgh's Petersen Events Center.
"It has been awesome," Silva said of the move. "The entire community of Johnstown has been supportive and everyone wants the War Memorial to be successful. It's a good work environment."
On Wednesday the Wheeling Nailers - a Pittsburgh Penguins ECHL affiliate - held a press conference to promote holding 10 home games at the arena this year.
Couple that with a number of concerts and shows that are already scheduled and the arena is in a position to have a good year, Silva said.
"For us, bringing hockey of this caliber back to the arena means a lot," he said.
October concerts by the Christian rock band MercyMe and the Halloween Hootenanny Tour are already generating a lot of interest, he said.
The Halloween Hootenanny Tour features heavy metal stars Alice Cooper and Rob Zombie. The arena show will be the only tour stop in Pennsylvania, according to the arena website.
Comedian and puppeteer Jeff Dunham will also perform in October.
"I can tell you that through the end of the fall we'll hit every genre," Silva said.
Layo said that a strong events schedule helps local businesses.
"Obviously they benefit from that," he said. "We're going to support them any way we can."
The winter schedule is also filling out nicely with multiple local and school hockey leagues pressing for time on the ice, Silva said. Following hockey, the Johnstown Generals, an Ultimate Indoor Football League team, will take the field.
"Ultimately, we want a much more established program and to get the community involved," Silva said of his vision for the arena.
For more information about the Nailers games in Johnstown, visit www.wheelingnailers.com on the Web. To see the schedule of events and concerts at the arena, go to www.warmemorialarena.com. For more about the Johnstown Generals indoor football season, visit www.johnstowngenerals.com. By DAN DiPAOLO
dand@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
Bill would make it a felony to leave a child alone in a car
Pennsylvania lawmakers plan to introduce a bill that would make it a third-degree felony to leave a child alone in a car. The rule would apply to children as old as 13.
Sen. Robert Tomlinson, R-Bucks County, and Rep. Gene DiGirolamo, R-Bensalem, on Thursday announced plans to introduce legislation in their respective chambers
If a made a law, the measure would make it a felony of the third degree to leave a child under age 13 in a motor vehicle without adult supervision. A third-degree felony can result in a prison term of 3 1/2 to 7 years and a fine of up to $15,000. It is currently a misdemeanor.
They said the measure is needed to serve as a strong deterrent for gamblers who visit casinos and leave children behind in the parking lot. There have been several incidents when adults left children unattended in the parking lot at Parx Casino in Bensalem. A time frame was not given.
"It points at the problem of people leaving small children unattended in a car and creates an enhanced penalty for individuals who leave children in cars," Fran Cleaver, legal council for Tomlinson said.
Cleaver said the legislators hear stories of people leaving children in cars at shopping malls, convenience stores. One child was in a car for six hours at a Philadelphia park.
"They believe through enhanced penalties, appropriate signage and beefed up controls (they may) eradicate the problem," Cleaver said.
Cleaver said age 13 was chosen because the law recognizes that as the age of reason.
"At 13 years old you might have the ability to realize you are in a car and your parents aren't coming back," she said. "Younger children might not."
The law will allow law enforcement to use discretion whether a person is being reckless, Cleaver said.
"They use their discretion and the judiciary system uses their discretion," she said.
The action may help families get help for various other issues such as alcohol or other addictions, Cleaver explained.
"Generally the incident proves to be an opportunity for the family to receive appropriate help," she said.
State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar, R-Allegheny Township, said he has not read the language of the legislation.
"Nobody wants to see kids in danger," he said. "You can't legislate common sense for people who are going to a casino and letting their kids sit in a car."
He said raising the penalty from a misdemeanor to a felony may not make a difference.
"I don't think the person irresponsible enough to let their child in the car is going to know the difference," he said. "They're irresponsible."
State Rep. Frank Burns, D-East Taylor Township, did not return a telephone call seeking comment. By MICHELLE GANASSI
michelleg@dailyamerican.com
Sen. Robert Tomlinson, R-Bucks County, and Rep. Gene DiGirolamo, R-Bensalem, on Thursday announced plans to introduce legislation in their respective chambers
If a made a law, the measure would make it a felony of the third degree to leave a child under age 13 in a motor vehicle without adult supervision. A third-degree felony can result in a prison term of 3 1/2 to 7 years and a fine of up to $15,000. It is currently a misdemeanor.
They said the measure is needed to serve as a strong deterrent for gamblers who visit casinos and leave children behind in the parking lot. There have been several incidents when adults left children unattended in the parking lot at Parx Casino in Bensalem. A time frame was not given.
"It points at the problem of people leaving small children unattended in a car and creates an enhanced penalty for individuals who leave children in cars," Fran Cleaver, legal council for Tomlinson said.
Cleaver said the legislators hear stories of people leaving children in cars at shopping malls, convenience stores. One child was in a car for six hours at a Philadelphia park.
"They believe through enhanced penalties, appropriate signage and beefed up controls (they may) eradicate the problem," Cleaver said.
Cleaver said age 13 was chosen because the law recognizes that as the age of reason.
"At 13 years old you might have the ability to realize you are in a car and your parents aren't coming back," she said. "Younger children might not."
The law will allow law enforcement to use discretion whether a person is being reckless, Cleaver said.
"They use their discretion and the judiciary system uses their discretion," she said.
The action may help families get help for various other issues such as alcohol or other addictions, Cleaver explained.
"Generally the incident proves to be an opportunity for the family to receive appropriate help," she said.
State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar, R-Allegheny Township, said he has not read the language of the legislation.
"Nobody wants to see kids in danger," he said. "You can't legislate common sense for people who are going to a casino and letting their kids sit in a car."
He said raising the penalty from a misdemeanor to a felony may not make a difference.
"I don't think the person irresponsible enough to let their child in the car is going to know the difference," he said. "They're irresponsible."
State Rep. Frank Burns, D-East Taylor Township, did not return a telephone call seeking comment. By MICHELLE GANASSI
michelleg@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
Single flu shot will suffice for most
Although some pharmacies are advertising that flu vaccinations are now available, this may be a little too early to get a flu shot
"Will you still be protected in February and March or will it wane before then?" said Holli Senior, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Health. "If you see it available locally, go ahead and get it. But as far as the state system, vaccinations won't be given until closer to the end of September. We recommend people get them in late September or early October, before families gather for the holidays."
Last year people were to get two vaccinations: one for H1N1 flu and the other for seasonal flu. Both are incorporated in this year's vaccine, so people will only need one. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are recommending that everyone age 6 months or older get the flu shot, unless they are allergic to eggs. That is a change from previous years, which stressed the need for vaccination for a few groups.
Children between 6 months and 9 years who have never been vaccinated, or who only received the H1N1 flu shot last year, should get two doses. This year an alternative vaccine that provides a higher dosage will be available for people age 65 or older.
A RAND Corp. survey finds that many adults chose not to get a flu vaccine last year. Even with the threat of H1N1 flu, only 32 percent of adults surveyed had been vaccinated by November. The CDC estimated that 60 million Americans had contracted the H1N1 virus by March, more than 270,000 had been hospitalized and there were about 12,270 flu-related deaths. Epidemiologists say it is difficult to predict whether the 2010-11 flu season will be as severe.
"Some people just look at the flu as a mere nuisance, so they don't feel vaccination is important," said Tom Skinner, senior public affairs officer with the CDC. "But we know it can be life-threatening."
Because of last year's H1N1 flu threat, the federal government paid for the flu vaccine and public health clinics were held where people got the shots for free. This year the process will be the same as previous years, Senior said. The state will purchase a small amount of vaccine for special groups of people who otherwise don't have the means to get one. Everyone else should get one from their family physician or when pharmacies and supermarkets have flu shot clinics.
"Every year we have an unpredictable flu season," Senior said. "One good thing this year is they don't anticipate a shortage of vaccine. And the vaccine will cover three strains: H1N1, H2N3 and the B-type."
If people aren't able to find a flu vaccine provider in their area, they may check the Health Department's flu-finder site at www.health.state.pa.us or call 1-877-pahealth.
By VICKI ROCK
vickir@dailyamerican.com
"Will you still be protected in February and March or will it wane before then?" said Holli Senior, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Health. "If you see it available locally, go ahead and get it. But as far as the state system, vaccinations won't be given until closer to the end of September. We recommend people get them in late September or early October, before families gather for the holidays."
Last year people were to get two vaccinations: one for H1N1 flu and the other for seasonal flu. Both are incorporated in this year's vaccine, so people will only need one. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are recommending that everyone age 6 months or older get the flu shot, unless they are allergic to eggs. That is a change from previous years, which stressed the need for vaccination for a few groups.
Children between 6 months and 9 years who have never been vaccinated, or who only received the H1N1 flu shot last year, should get two doses. This year an alternative vaccine that provides a higher dosage will be available for people age 65 or older.
A RAND Corp. survey finds that many adults chose not to get a flu vaccine last year. Even with the threat of H1N1 flu, only 32 percent of adults surveyed had been vaccinated by November. The CDC estimated that 60 million Americans had contracted the H1N1 virus by March, more than 270,000 had been hospitalized and there were about 12,270 flu-related deaths. Epidemiologists say it is difficult to predict whether the 2010-11 flu season will be as severe.
"Some people just look at the flu as a mere nuisance, so they don't feel vaccination is important," said Tom Skinner, senior public affairs officer with the CDC. "But we know it can be life-threatening."
Because of last year's H1N1 flu threat, the federal government paid for the flu vaccine and public health clinics were held where people got the shots for free. This year the process will be the same as previous years, Senior said. The state will purchase a small amount of vaccine for special groups of people who otherwise don't have the means to get one. Everyone else should get one from their family physician or when pharmacies and supermarkets have flu shot clinics.
"Every year we have an unpredictable flu season," Senior said. "One good thing this year is they don't anticipate a shortage of vaccine. And the vaccine will cover three strains: H1N1, H2N3 and the B-type."
If people aren't able to find a flu vaccine provider in their area, they may check the Health Department's flu-finder site at www.health.state.pa.us or call 1-877-pahealth.
By VICKI ROCK
vickir@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
Public invited to trail town planning meetings
Trail Town Preservation Program workshops have resurfaced.
A second - and final - round of workshops will be held Sept. 14 and 15 in three trail towns, including Confluence.
Planners will share ideas from a first round of public meetings and seek additional input. The information will be used to preserve the heritage and historic resources of towns along the Great Allegheny Passage.
About 30 people attended the first preservation program workshop, which focused specifically on Somerset County. From that discussion, planners identified several community problems and outlined ways to fix them. They are hoping for a bigger turnout at this month's meetings.
"I can't stress enough that residents and businesses from Meyersdale, Rockwood and Confluence should come out and see what is in the works and give their feedback," program manager Amy Camp said Friday.
The workshops are part of a process to develop a plan to preserve the rich architectural and historical resources of six towns along the Great Allegheny Passage, Camp said. The towns are Confluence, Rockwood and Meyersdale in Somerset County; Connellsville and Ohiopyle in Fayette County; and West Newton in Westmoreland County.
Community input will only enhance the plan, she said.
"It will be a blueprint for preserving our heritage and our built environment," Camp said.
The broader goal is to promote tourism, stimulate the economy and support environmental sustainability, Somerset County Trail Coordinator Brett Hollern said.
"In general if people take a broader look at these workshops they will realize it is not just in relationship with the trail, there is a good bit of value for the towns themselves," he said.
The project is funded by the Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation, the Preserve America Program of the National Park Service and Preservation Pennsylvania. It is administered by Preservation Pennsylvania with assistance from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Trail Town Program.
The public sessions will be as follows:
Confluence: 6:30 p.m. Sept. 15 at the Turkeyfoot Valley Historical Society, 600 Logan St.
West Newton: 6:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Christ Lutheran Church, Vine and 3rd streets
Ohiopyle: noon Sept. 15 at the Ohiopyle-Stewart Community Center, 15 Sherman St.
By JUDY D.J. ELLICH
judye@dailyamerican.com
A second - and final - round of workshops will be held Sept. 14 and 15 in three trail towns, including Confluence.
Planners will share ideas from a first round of public meetings and seek additional input. The information will be used to preserve the heritage and historic resources of towns along the Great Allegheny Passage.
About 30 people attended the first preservation program workshop, which focused specifically on Somerset County. From that discussion, planners identified several community problems and outlined ways to fix them. They are hoping for a bigger turnout at this month's meetings.
"I can't stress enough that residents and businesses from Meyersdale, Rockwood and Confluence should come out and see what is in the works and give their feedback," program manager Amy Camp said Friday.
The workshops are part of a process to develop a plan to preserve the rich architectural and historical resources of six towns along the Great Allegheny Passage, Camp said. The towns are Confluence, Rockwood and Meyersdale in Somerset County; Connellsville and Ohiopyle in Fayette County; and West Newton in Westmoreland County.
Community input will only enhance the plan, she said.
"It will be a blueprint for preserving our heritage and our built environment," Camp said.
The broader goal is to promote tourism, stimulate the economy and support environmental sustainability, Somerset County Trail Coordinator Brett Hollern said.
"In general if people take a broader look at these workshops they will realize it is not just in relationship with the trail, there is a good bit of value for the towns themselves," he said.
The project is funded by the Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation, the Preserve America Program of the National Park Service and Preservation Pennsylvania. It is administered by Preservation Pennsylvania with assistance from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Trail Town Program.
The public sessions will be as follows:
By JUDY D.J. ELLICH
judye@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News
Que rec area seeing heavy use
RICHLAND TOWNSHIP - The summer season at the Quemahoning Family Recreation Area has been a success going into an already strong Labor Day weekend, according to officials.
Site improvements and increased public awareness among local organizations helped to make the summer one of the most well-attended, said Jason Smith, an employee of recreation area caretaker Summer's Best 2 Weeks.
"There are all kinds of groups using the park," Smith said. "They're also using it for a number of different reasons."
Tracking shows groups coming to the Quemahoning Reservoir to picnic, fish, canoe, camp, hold company picnics and even for church services.
Churches, Scout troops, college clubs, businesses and local social services are among those taking advantage of the playing fields, camping, pavilions and other amenities, according to a report submitted to site owner Cambria Somerset Authority.
"The park looks good," authority Chairman James Greco said. "It's been well-maintained this year."
A total of 2,004 day passes and 285 season passes were sold from April through August. The RV sites, tent sites and rustic cabins were rented 468 times and the pavilions saw use on 138 occasions.
The rec area has 40 tent sites, 23 RV spots, five pavilions and two rustic cabins.
The Labor Day weekend also looks like it will see heavy use, Greco said.
"The pavilions are sold out. I know because I called three weeks ago and tried to get one," he said.
The RV spots are also all reserved but there are tent sites available, Smith said.
Managers want to see increased use of the playing fields and athletic complex. Basketball, softball, volleyball and soccer are all available.
"We need to better market the soccer fields," Greco said. "It'd be a great place for the kids to practice."
This year saw the park make the jump online. In previous years, the authority was seeking physical improvements like roads, tent sites, a shower house, walking trails and electricity for the RV sites.
Now it's about reaching out to potential users and making the rental process easier, Smith said.
In May the website for the recreation area went live. It allows people to make reservations for tent sites, RV camping, pavilion use and rustic cabin rental.
For more information, visit www.Quefamilyrec.com on the Web.
By DAN DiPAOLO
dand@dailyamerican.com
Site improvements and increased public awareness among local organizations helped to make the summer one of the most well-attended, said Jason Smith, an employee of recreation area caretaker Summer's Best 2 Weeks.
"There are all kinds of groups using the park," Smith said. "They're also using it for a number of different reasons."
Tracking shows groups coming to the Quemahoning Reservoir to picnic, fish, canoe, camp, hold company picnics and even for church services.
Churches, Scout troops, college clubs, businesses and local social services are among those taking advantage of the playing fields, camping, pavilions and other amenities, according to a report submitted to site owner Cambria Somerset Authority.
"The park looks good," authority Chairman James Greco said. "It's been well-maintained this year."
A total of 2,004 day passes and 285 season passes were sold from April through August. The RV sites, tent sites and rustic cabins were rented 468 times and the pavilions saw use on 138 occasions.
The rec area has 40 tent sites, 23 RV spots, five pavilions and two rustic cabins.
The Labor Day weekend also looks like it will see heavy use, Greco said.
"The pavilions are sold out. I know because I called three weeks ago and tried to get one," he said.
The RV spots are also all reserved but there are tent sites available, Smith said.
Managers want to see increased use of the playing fields and athletic complex. Basketball, softball, volleyball and soccer are all available.
"We need to better market the soccer fields," Greco said. "It'd be a great place for the kids to practice."
This year saw the park make the jump online. In previous years, the authority was seeking physical improvements like roads, tent sites, a shower house, walking trails and electricity for the RV sites.
Now it's about reaching out to potential users and making the rental process easier, Smith said.
In May the website for the recreation area went live. It allows people to make reservations for tent sites, RV camping, pavilion use and rustic cabin rental.
For more information, visit www.Quefamilyrec.com on the Web.
By DAN DiPAOLO
dand@dailyamerican.com
Categories: News