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News ArchiveWSYC News…Immediate News For The Immediate Area No Criminal Charges In Fatal Bus Crash
The Cumberland County DA's office says no charges will be filed in connection with an accident involving two school buses which claimed the life of one of the drivers. The accident happened during a emergency drill in front of James Burd Elementary School in Shippensburg on March 24th. Fifty-five-year-old Sharon Harry was exiting her bus through the rear emergency door when she was hit by the second bus. Harry was airlifted to Hershey Medical Center where she was pronounced dead of multiple injuries. A two week investigation led by Cumberland County District Attorney David Freed has cleared the driver of the other bus, Merle Snoke, of any criminal wrongdoing in the accident. Also exonerated was the bus company, Lee McBeth and Sons. Police Arrest Man Wanted In Maryland
State police in the Shippensburg area say they have arrested a Chambersburg man who was wanted in Maryland. It was around 2:40 Thursday morning when officers responded to a report of a fight at Pharo's Truck Stop on Hershey Road on Southampton Township. Authorities say among those arrested was 27-year-old Michael Thomas Witwer. They say a driver's license check revealed that Witwer is a fugitive from justice, wanted on outstanding warrants in Worcester County, Maryland. Police Officer Arrested On Charges Of Sexually Assaulting Two Young Girls
A man working as a police officer for Shippensburg University has been arrested on charges of sexually assaulting two young girls. Police say that 33-year-old Michael Fernsler was taken into custody on Friday night. The girls, who are both four-years-old, are members of a family that's friends with Fernsler. Fernsler has resigned his position with Shippensburg University, and is being held at Dauphin County Prison on 50-thousand-dollars bail. Ridership Increases For Shippensburg-Area Bus Service
More commuters in the Shippensburg area are turning to mass transit. For the month of February, the last month for which information is available, Capital Area Transit reports more than 61-hundred riders utilized regional bus service. It's the highest monthly total since the service was established in August 1999. For the first eight months of the current fiscal year, total ridership has increased 44-percent compared to the same period one year ago. The service is a collaboration between Capital Area Transit, Shippensburg University, and surrounding municipalities. New Reporting Center Designed To Ease Prison Overcrowding
Franklin County officials are taking steps aimed at reducing overcrowding at the county prison. A new day reporting center is in operation for nonviolent offenders who have served their minimum sentences. Those who report to the DRC, as it's called, will be subject to intensive training and treatment, as well as regular drug and alcohol testing. Twenty-five inmates are attending the DRC, with officials hoping to double that number before the end of the month. There are currently 341 inmates at the Franklin County Prison, 121 above capacity. Hit And Run Driver Sought
State Police in Cumberland County are looking for witnesses to a hit and run crash. At around 5:45 Sunday morning, a car driven by 21-year-old Rudell Harrison of Shippensburg was traveling northbound on I-81 between the Newville and Plainfield exits. Police say her car was struck from behind by a black vehicle, either a pickup or an SUV, which fled the scene. Harrison's vehicle suffered extensive damage. Fortunately, she was not hurt. The hit and run vehicle also suffered front end damage. Anyone who may have seen the crash or knows the whereabouts of the suspect vehicle is asked to contact State Police at Carlisle. Rumsfeld Says War On Terror Must Continue
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld says terrorists may be the most brutal enemy America has ever faced. At a noontime speech at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, he said the enemy in the war on terror is capable of killing millions of people. He said the U.S. and its allies must remain on the offensive. Speaking to students and faculty members, Rumsfeld also emphasized that pulling troops out of Iraq won't stop terrorists from trying to attack the U.S. again. Shippensburg Bus Driver Hurt
A Shippensburg bus driver is hospitalized with traumatic injuries after being struck by another bus. Police say Sharon Harry was at the back of her bus to help students at James Burd Elementary with an emergency morning drill when she was struck by the bus behind hers. Police say the driver was trying to back up to give Harry more space, but the bus moved forward instead. Six students were taken to area hospitals for physical discomfort, and Harry was flown to Hershey medical Center where she is said to be in critical condition. New Historic Markers Approved
The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission has approved the placing of 28 new blue and yellow state historical markers. They commemorate individuals, places or events which played a prominent role in the state's history. The newest selections include the Locust Grove Cemetery in Shippensburg, the final resting place for 28 African American soldiers who served in the first all-black units to fight in the Civil War. Other markers will be placed in Gap, Lancaster County, to honor William Chester Ruth, an African American inventor of agricultural products, and at the site of the Quecreek coal mine in Somerset County, to mark the rescue of nine miners in July 2002. Carlisle Branch Of NAACP Looking For New Members
The Carlisle branch of the NAACP is looking to expand its membership base. Membership Chair Jim Baker says that the organization is looking to target local college students. In a "Carlisle Sentinel" report, Baker says that the NAACP is for anyone interested in making the community a better place. He says that many people who have been joining are not minorities. The Carlisle branch currently has 110 members. Accused Pedophile Pleads Not Guilty
A third man accused of being part of a Franklin County pedophile ring has pleaded not guilty. Twenty-nine-year-old Karl Schmeiding of Newville is accused of sexual misconduct involving underage boys, which prosecutors say took place starting in the summer of 2004 at the Greene Township home of 59-year-old Joseph Cioccia. He has pleaded guilty in the case, and faces at least 20 years behind bars. The third suspect, 71-year-old Edgar Stine of Cleversburg, pleaded not guilty and will go on trial in May. PennVEST Awards 100-Million-Dollars For Local Water And Sewer Systems
Water and sewer systems in 23 counties will benefit from grants and loans totaling 100-million-dollars, awarded by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, or PennVEST. A number of the recipients are located in the midstate. They include Biglerville in Adams County, Shippensburg in Cumberland and Franklin Counties, Salisbury Township in Lancaster County, Blain in Perry County and Stewartstown in York County. Execution Halted
The execution of a Chambersburg man has been postponed after the inmate requested a lawyer. Michael B. Singley is on death row for the 1998 murders of Christine Rohrer and James Gilliam on Elder Street. He was scheduled to be executed April 6th, but the request for an attorney leads to an automatic stay. Witnesses Sought To Fatal Weekend Crash
State Police in Cumberland County are seeking witnesses in a fatal weekend crash along northbound I-81. Investigators say 22-year-old Amanda Mohr of Downingtown, Chester County, was killed when she was thrown from her car when it overturned between Shippensburg and Newville. Police are not sure exactly how the crash occurred. A man also in the car was airlifted to Hershey Medical Center with unknown injuries, while two children were not seriously hurt. Anyone who may have seen the crash is asked to call state police at 249-2121. Major Housing Development Under Consideration
A Mechanicsburg developer is eyeing a 15 acre site near Shippensburg for major housing construction. Indian Springs Associates wants to build 286 townhouses and 14 duplexes, near Kline Road and Lees Cross Road in Southampton Township. Mobile homes which currently occupy the site would be removed, according to the "Carlisle Sentinel." Members of the Southampton Township Planning Commission say they are awaiting a formal proposal before taking it under consideration. Ten Arrested In Weekend Drug Sweep
A weekend drug sweep in Carlisle resulted in the arrests of a total of ten people on drug charges. Mayor Kirk Wilson says four separate investigations resulted in the arrests, along with the seizure of both powdered and crack cocaine, worth a total of 15-thousand-dollars. Police say they took the suspects into custody following a traffic stop on North Hanover street, along with search warrants obtained for residences in the 200-block of Walnut Bottom Road, the first block of Kerrs Avenue, and the 100-block of A Street. CDBG Funds To Be Doled Out In Franklin County
Franklin County Commissioners are set tomorrow to approve allocating 413-thousand-dollars in Community Development Block Grant funds. The largest allocation, according to the "Carlisle Sentinel," is 100-thousand-dollars to the Quincy Township Municipal Authority for upgrades to the Nunnery Road wastewater treatment plant. In addition, 70-thousand-dollars goes to the Dry Run Water Association for system upgrades, and 65-thousand-dollars will be awarded to the Mont Alto Municipal Authority for a water system extension. Newburg Man Killed In Friday Morning Crash
A Newburg man was killed Friday morning in a one-vehicle crash on Route 696 in Hopewell Township. Police say that 25-year-old Steven Negley was traveling north on Route 696 around 4 a.m. when he lost control of his vehicle and it left the roadway and hit a tree. Negley was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing a seat belt. New Projects Planned For Letterkenny Depot
A master plan outlining future construction projects at Letterkenny Army Depot is expected to be released in July. Among the projects on the drawing board: A 14-million-dollar Army Reserve Center, a 7-point-2-million-dollar staging and deployment facility, and a 6-point-1-million-dollar ammunition shipping facility. Construction on that project is set to begin this fall, with the others three to four years away. Loan Granted For Shippensburg Office Building
Shippensburg-based Seneca Realty is the recipient of a 500-thousand-dollar enterprise loan from the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and the Capital Region Economic Development Corporation. The funds will go toward the construction of a 21-thousand-square-foot, four story office complex in downtown Shippensburg. The former Gingerbread Man on East King Street will be able to house retail businesses as well as corporate offices. Construction is set to be completed by the spring. Four Arrested In Prostitution Sting
An undercover investigation has resulted in the arrests of four women on prostitution charges in Chambersburg. Officers raided two spas on Lincoln Way East on Wednesday. The investigation uncovered offers of sexual favors in return for payment. Those arrested, who are all from Korea, are in Franklin County Prison on 50-thousand-dollars bail each. Computer Screen Voting System Chosen By Cumberland County
Election officials in Cumberland County have made a decision on which voting machines they will use for the May 16th primary election. They chose to go with a computer screen voting system called iVotronic. The county decided to renew their contract with Election Systems and Software, who will provide the county with 606 machines for the cost of two-point-one-million-dollars. The county had to change their voting machines to comply with new federal standards. Toni Morrison To Speak At Shippensburg University Fundraiser
Nobel and Pulitzer prize-winning author Toni Morrison is coming to Shippensburg University. Morrison will be the guest speaker February 23rd, for the annual fundraiser to to benefit Shippensburg's Gifted Minority Scholarship fund. The event includes dinner at the Heiges(HY-gus) Field House, followed by the lecture at the Luhrs Performing Arts Center. Hearing In Long-Time Zoning Dispute Continues Today
A hearing is set to resume this afternoon before the Shippensburg Township Zoning Hearing Board. At issue is a dispute over the re-zoning of 50 acres near the Giant Foods Store on Baltimore Road. A Local citizens group is appealing a 2004 decision which changed the zoning from residential to commercial. After more than a year of dispute, the hearing finally got underway Thursday, but only lasted a short while because more disputes delayed its start time by more than an hour. Today's hearing gets underway at 4 p.m. Police Warn Man Wanted In Shippensburg May Be Armed And Dangerous
Police in Shippensburg are warning that a man who was released from prison two weeks ago may be armed and dangerous. They say that 23-year-old Leon Chalmers Deardorff may have committed several crimes in the borough since his release. He is suspected of stealing a handgun and attempting to steal a purse. An arrest warrant has been issued for Deardorff, but police have not had success in finding him. Students Arrested Following Drunken Stunt
Three Shippensburg University students are facing charges following a drunken stunt last week. State Police say the three were found lying on the sidewalk along North Queen Street near the intersection with King Street in Shippensburg. Further investigation indicated that all three were intoxicated. They are identified as 23 year-old Jeffrey Travis, 18 year-old Brian Feeley, and 18-year-old Scott Schnurr (Shner). All three face charges of public drunkenness, while Feeley and Schnurr were charged with underage drinking. Morning Crash Kills One
A morning accident in Franklin County has claimed one life. State Police say it happened at around 10:30 a.m., along Forge Road in Lurgan Township, when a pickup truck slammed into a flatbed trailer. The driver of the pickup had to be freed from the wreckage, and was pronounced dead en route to Chambersburg Hospital. The driver's identity has not been released. Man Charged With Endangering Welfare Of Child
A Shippensburg man is facing charges of endangering the welfare of children after allegedly being intoxicated and under the influence of drugs while caring for a two-year-old boy. Police say that they were called to the home of 43-year-old Vernon Singer late Tuesday by the child's grandfather, 53-year-old Allen Laughman. Laughman told police that Singer had pushed him and denied him entry to the home when he went to pick up the child. When police arrived, Singer was passed out on his bed. Pay Raises Coming For Cumberland Co. Employees
Non-union Cumberland County employees are getting a pay raise. Commissioners made the decision based on the results of an outside review of the county pay system. Salaries for about one-thousand employees will increase one step on the pay scale, or 2-point-5-percent. The new rates will go into effect at the beginning of December. Woman Charged For Not Removing Children From Abusive Home
A Harrisburg woman is facing charges of endangering the welfare of her children, for failing to remove them from an abusive home. Forty-one year-old Kelle Roberts is the companion of a Newburg, Cumberland County man arrested in September, following the discovery of sexually explicit pictures of the man and several minor children. Police returned to the home today to arrest Roberts. Police say her two male children were among those discovered in the pictures. Arrest Warrant Issued For Shippensburg Man
Police in Cumberland County have issued an arrest warrant for a Shippensburg man who failed to appear in court. Twenty-six-year-old Matthew Starliper of 13 Ritner Gardens is wanted on charges of simple assault and terroristic threats. Anyone with information is asked to contact Trooper Jeremy Matas at 249-2121. Man Sentenced For Child Endangerment
A Newville man faces up to seven years in prison after being found guilty on 13 of 17 charges of corruption of minors, furnishing alcohol to minors and witness intimidation. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports 46 year-old Walter Rhinehart will be sentenced in December. Rhinehart was convicted of improper conduct involving seven teens, three of them under age 18, then threatening them if they told of what was going on. Power Outage Shuts Down Shippensburg
Students and staff members at Shippensburg University had an unexpected day off today. According to spokesman Peter Gigliotti, a pair of electrical lines malfunctioned late Sunday. The smaller of the lines has since been repaired, but the more powerful connection, which provides electricity to the main academic buildings on campus, is still down. As a result, classes and all other campus activities were cancelled today. Gigliotti says repairs may be completed by 11 p.m. There is no word whether classes will be on for Tuesday. Two Charged After Allegedly Found Lying In The Road
State Police have filed charges against two men who they say were found lying in the middle of the road. Troopers were traveling along Britton Road in Shippensburg Township at around 1:45 Sunday morning when they came upon Craig Warrington and Jeffrey Simon, both age 20 and from West Chester. Police say they detected a strong odor of alcohol, along with other signs both men were drunk. Both face charges of underage drinking and disorderly conduct. Area Hospital Representatives Gather At Shippensburg University For Terror Drill
A number of area hospitals sent representatives to Shippensburg University on Tuesday for training in the event of a terror attack. The training exercises were meant to teach hospital officials what to do during large scale emergency situations. The exercise conducted Tuesday was a simulated formaldehyde explosion. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports that there were 16 hospitals represented at the training session, including Carlisle Regional Medical Center and PinnacleHealth. Unnamed Shippensburg Police Officer Remains Suspended
Officials in Shippensburg say that a part-time police officer, whose name is not being released, is still suspended following an incident last month. Officials told the "Carlisle Sentinel" that the officer is under suspension for "an administration violation of policy." The suspension came after the officer's gun accidentally fired during a traffic stop. An investigation into the incident has been completed. Woman Steals Credit Card, Racks Up Two-Thousand in Purchases
Police are looking for a female Shippensburg University student, accused of stealing and using a credit card. State Police say it was late on October 17th, when surveillance video captured the student picking up a credit card from the floor of the computer lab at Lehman Library on the Shippensburg campus. Two hours later, another surveillance camera observed the female with two others making 2-thousand-dollars worth of purchases at the Wal-Mart in Shippensburg. Police are asking those involved to come forward, or face numerous charges. The student is described as an African-American, age 18-to-22 with a thin build and corn row-style hair. Over 30 Arrests Following DUI Crackdown
Last weekend's massive DUI crackdown resulted in 33 drunk driving arrests in Cumberland and Dauphin counties. Officers from the South Central PA DUI Task Force fanned out across the region Friday night, setting up numerous sobriety checkpoints. Police also made two arrests for underage drinking, two on drug charges, one for driving without a license. Many of the officers involved in the DUI detail were from other parts of the state, in town last week for a law-enforcement convention. Woman Loses Appeal Of Child Death Conviction
The state Supreme Court has turned down the appeal of a Carlisle-area woman convicted in the death of her son. The "Harrisburg Patriot-News" reports 30-year-old Shenique Thomas of North Middleton Township was found guilty for the July 2002 starvation death of four-year-old Anthony Quincy Thomas. The boy died of severe malnutrition at Hershey Medical Center several days after he was admitted. Shenique Thomas and her husband Anthony were both sentenced to five to ten years behind bars. Former Principal At West Pennsboro Township School Announces Run For State House
A Carlisle resident and former elementary school principal in West Pennsboro Township has announced that he will be running for state representative. Bill Cobb says he will be challenging Representative Will Gabig in 2006, should he win the primary election. Cobb says he made the decision to run after state legislators gave themselves a pay raise. Cobb recently retired as principal of Oak Flat Elementary School. Landfill Plans Expansion Project
Plans for an expansion project at the Cumberland County Landfill will be unveiled tonight at a meeting at Hopewell Township's municipal building. The plan calls for a 96-acre expansion at the landfill along Route 641. Officials with Waste Systems International, the owner of the landfill, say that the expansion is needed because they are running out of room. Residents will have the opportunity to ask questions tonight. The meeting gets started at 7 p.m. Four Injured In Sunday Crash On Berks/Lancaster County Line
Four people, including a Chambersburg man, were injured Sunday evening in a three-vehicle crash that closed a portion of Route 222 in Spring Township, Berks County. Police say a vehicle driven by 69-year-old Gerald Blust of Bethlehem crossed into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a vehicle driven by 62-year-old Rosemary Johnston of Adamstown. Police say Johnston's vehicle was then hit by a vehicle driven by 20-year-old Dustin Neil of Chambersburg. All three drivers and a passenger in Johnston's vehicle were taken to Reading Hospital. Their conditions are not known. Halloween Parades Postponed Until Thursday
A pair of Halloween parades scheduled for tonight have been postponed due to the weather. South Middleton's parade will now take place Thursday, starting at 7 p.m. at South Middleton Park. The parade set for tonight in Newville will also take place Thursday. According to Borough Manager Fred Potzer, parade units will set up along Broad Street and will step off at 7 p.m. Man Arrested On Drug Charges
An 18-year-old man was arrested early Saturday morning in Middleton Township, Cumberland County, on charges of drug possession. Police say that Terencio Desousa was found to be in possession of cocaine and marijuana when they pulled him over for a traffic violation. The arrest was made on Interstate 81 at mile marker 44. Desousa was placed in Cumberland County Prison on 5-thousand-dollars bail. Girl Hit By Car, Suffers Broken Elbow
A 15-year-old girl suffered a broken elbow after being hit by a car Thursday afternoon. The girl, whose name has not been released, was walking along Mt. Rock Road when she attempted to cross the street and was hit by a vehicle driven by 16-year-old Allen Baker of Newville. Police say that Baker was speeding through the 15-mile-an-hour school zone when the accident occurred. The girl was treated at Carlisle Hospital. Gangs in Shippensburg
A Los Angeles gang is reportedly taking root in Shippensburg, leaving their tell-tale graffiti on local business, and even the public library. “The Crips” are a traditionally African American gang, but they are reportedly branching out into all ethnic groups, recruiting both male and female members. Trooper Edward Asbury of the Pennsylvania State Police said that 4 different instances of Crip graffiti have been identified, and that Pennsylvania is the number one state for formation of hate groups. Wilson College
Wilson College in Chambersburg is hosting “Make a Difference Day”. Morning activities will include tree planting and trail clean up. Afternoon activities include a farm tour, pumpkin carving, face painting and more. The event is held at Wilson College’s Farm Hiking Trail on October 30th. All activities are free of charge. Agreement Reached With Fraudulent Travel Agent
A Michgan-based company which sells discount vacations is no longer allowed to do business in Pennsylvania, under an agreement reached with the office of state Attorney General Tom Corbett. Vacation Central Incorporated was accused of illegally calling consumers' homes selling discount travel club memberships, then failing to live up to their part of the agreements. Corbett says his office received over 50 complaints from consumers in Cumberland, York, and five other counties. The agreement also requires Vacation Central to issue full refunds, and pay civil penalties of one-thousand-dollars per consumer, or three-thousand for each consumer who is age 60 or older. Theft Reported At Amerigas In Shippensburg
Police in Shippensburg are investigating a theft at Amerigas in the 1-thousand-block of Ritner Highway. Someone stole eight grill size propane bottles from the company. The theft happened sometime between Thursday of last week and Tuesday of this week. Anyone with information on the theft is asked to call police at 249-2121. Skate Park Approved For Newville Community Park
A proposal for a skate park at the Newville Community Park has been approved. The borough council voted in favor of replacing a tennis court near West Street with the new park. The council has set some rules for the skateboarders that will be using the facilities. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent's signature, and all park users must sign a liability form. The project is expected to be paid for with fundraisers. Repairs Being Made To Carlisle Theatre
A series of repairs at the Carlisle Theatre in the first block of West High Street are underway. Crews are working to repair portions of the roof that are leaking. Work is also being done to replace damaged tiles on the building's facade. The 60-day project is expected to cost around 72-thousand-dollars. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports that most of that amount will be paid for with state grants and the remainder being paid by the theater. Five Facing Bad Check Charges
Five suspects, four from Cumberland County, are facing bad check charges. State Police say they are accused of writing an undetermined amount of bogus checks after shopping at the Newville Country Market and Deli. The charges date back to July 1st of this year. Charged in the scheme are 25-year-old Douglas Weaver, 35-year-old Kimberly Markle both of Newville, 20-year-old Kenneth Gramm and 19-year-old Jessica Ketchum both of Enola, and 21-year-old Suzanne Welsch of Rockhill Furnace, Huntingdon County. Public Meeting To Discuss Racism And Safety
Concerns over racism and safety in the Shippensburg Area School District have prompted school officials to call a special meeting for parents and students for October 11th at 6 p.m. At a recent school board meeting, several parents discussed rumors concerning a hit list and a student at the high school with a gun. Shippensburg Police Chief Fred Scott says an investigation showed those rumors to be without merit. Even so, Superintendent Jacqueline Lesney says there is a problem, which she declined to specify, pointing up the need for a public meeting. She adds the district is taking steps to address safety and diversity. Chambersburg Man Faces Possible Life Sentence
Testimony is under way in Hagerstown, Maryland, in the murder trial of Ricky Stallings. The 24-year-old Chambersburg man is accused of gunning down his uncle's estranged wife. Stallings is charged with first- and second-degree murder and other offenses in the February slaying of Mary Williams outside her home in Maugansville. According to The Herald Mail, in an opening statement yesterday, prosecutor Robert Veil told the jury Stallings pulled up in an S-U-V after Williams got into the passenger seat of her boyfriend's car. Stallings allegedly motioned with a gun for her to get out and then opened fire. Stallings' attorney told the jurors to keep an open mind – that the motive and means behind the alleged shooting won't come out in the state's case. Seven women and five men were seated as jurors yesterday after a selection process that lasted more than two hours. The trial is expected to continue through Friday. If convicted, Stallings faces a possible life sentence. Man Arrested For Fleeing Police
Police have arrested a man who led them on a chase through numerous townships in Franklin County and Cumberland County on Sunday night. Police say 38-year-old Craig Laplant failed to stop for them along Interstate 81 near Mile Marker 23. The chase ended in Shippensburg and Laplant was taken into custody. There is no word on what charges he may face. Teens Charged With Playing "Mailbox Baseball"
Three Carlisle teens face charges after police spotted them using a baseball bat to damage residential mailboxes in North Middleton and Lower Frankford Townships over the weekend. Officers arrested 18 year-olds Jason Curtis and Andrew Tate, along with 19 year-old Benjamin Lauer. Police were called late Saturday by residents who heard the damage being committed, with officers catching up to the suspects, but not before they allegedly smashed about 30 mailboxes. Weekend Heart Walk In Shippensburg
The American Heart Association in conjunction with Shippensburg University students have scheduled The Heart Walk for this weekend. This year over one million people are expected to walk in more than six hundred events across the country. The annual walk raises funds to prevent heart disease and stroke, the number one and three killers of Americans. Sign-up tables and registration forms will be available in the Ceddia Union Building tomorrow September 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The walk will take place at the student recreation complex Friday, September 23 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with registration from 10 to 11 a.m., and Saturday, September 24 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with registration from 8 to 10 a.m. For more information send an e-mail to Jennifer James at jj5642@ship.edu or visit the American Heart Association website at www.americanheart.org. Kauffman Has Open House
State Representative Rob Kauffman is inviting area residents to stop by his district office in Shippensburg for an open house on September 22. The open house will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and light refreshments will be served. The office is located at 9974 Molly Pitcher Highway in Shippensburg. For more information on the Open House or Rob Kauffman you can visit his website, www.repkauffman.com. Commissioners Sign Off On Refinancing For One West Penn
Cumberland County Commissioners have signed off on a plan to restructure the debt on the county's flagship senior citizen housing complex. The interest rate on a 1983 federal loan used to build One West Penn will be lowered from six-point-nine-percent to between four and four-and-a-half-percent. Carlisle Senior Housing Associates, the operators of the complex, still owe about five-million-dollars on the 40-year loan. The "Harrisburg Patriot-News" reports the financing deal will also allow the operators to borrow additional funds, which will be used to make renovations to the 22-year-old, 130-unit complex. Hearing Underway On Ethanol Plant Proposal
A controversial ethanol plant near Chambersburg in under review in Franklin County Court. Penn-Mar Ethanol wants to build an 80-million dollar facility in the Cumberland Valley Business Park. A judge heard arguments Monday both for and against the plant, three months after the project was put on hold pending the outcome of the hearing. No word when Judge Richard Walsh will issue a decision. The "Chambersburg Public Opinion" reports that opponents have expressed concern over the fact that the plant would be located adjacent to the Letterkenny Army Depot, which is permitted to store up to two-million-pounds of missiles and bombs. The hearing continues today. Twelve Arrested Over the Weekend In Shippensburg
It was another busy weekend for law enforcement in the Shippensburg area. State police stopped, cited or arrested a total of 12 people Friday and Saturday nights, on various alcohol-related violations. Most were for underage drinking or public drunkenness, but three of the arrests took place after traffic stops, where troopers determined that the drivers were intoxicated. One of those stops, at Britton Road and North Queen Street, where the driver and three passengers were all found to be drunk. Shippensburg University Football Star Suspensded
One of the players in Shippensburg University’s football victory Saturday was charged Sunday with drunk driving, on a motorized scooter. Red Raider Defensive Back, Brent Omar Grimes was among a dozen people charged with alcohol related crimes over the weekend. Grimes has been suspended for this weeks game in Edinboro. He is also charged with DUI, disorderly conduct, harassment, criminal trespass, public drunkenness and several traffic violations. Two Teens Arrested After Allegedly Fleeing Police
Two teens were arrested late Saturday night in Shippensburg after allegedly fleeing police on a motorcycle. Authorities say 18-year-olds Kevin Hampton and Justin Heckman failed to stop for police when they tried to pull them over around 11:30 p.m. near the Sheetz convenience store along North Queen Street. They say the teens were finally stopped at the intersection of Baltimore Road and Whitehouse Road. They say Hampton was driving the motorcycle, and he was charged with DUI, reckless endangerment, underage drinking, possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia, and other charges. Heckman was charged with possession of drugs, underage drinking, and disorderly conduct. Mifflin Man Faces Charges In Connection With Drugs, DUI
A Mifflin, Juniata County man was arrested early Saturday morning in Shippensburg, Cumberland County. Police say that 29-year-old Phillip Wells was pulled over around 12:15 a.m. when he was spotted driving without headlights on. Authorities say Wells appeared to be under the influence of alcohol, and that drugs and drug paraphernalia were found in his vehicle. There is no word on what charges have been filed against Wells. 9-11 Ceremonies
Carlisle will hold 9/11 commemoration ceremonies this Sunday at the Veteran's Courtyard at 3:30. One of the speakers is Colonel Elton Manske, who was working on the second floor of the Pentagon when terrorists flew an airliner into the facility in 2001. Manske is now a director at the US Army War College at Carlisle Barracks. In addition to remembering 9-11, organizers are planning music and prayers in honor of the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Local Grocery Store to Help Katrina Victims
Cressler's Market in Shippensburg will be holding a food and supply drive to aid in the help needed for those who have been affected by Hurricane Katrina. The event will be held this Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 AM until 7:00 PM. Anyone is urged to bring non-perishable foods such as peanut butter or canned foods like soup, vegetables or fruit. Personal hygiene items will also be accepted as well as baby items. For a complete list of items accepted go to www.sarperebels.com and click on the Hurricane Relief tab. Cressler's Market is located on 1075 West King Street in Shippensburg. Man Arrested on Assault Charges
A Carlisle man is behind bars today after allegedly assaulting his wife. Police say 31-year-old Demetrius Palmer was charged with assault during a Labor Day family gathering. The incident took place at around 12:30 p.m. Palmer was placed in Cumberland County Prison on 15-hundred-dollars bail. Restaurant Employee Assaulted By Customer
An employee working at the Gingerbread Man along South Courthouse Avenue in Carlisle early Saturday morning has reported being assaulted by a customer. Police say that the employee, whose name has not been released, suffered cuts and bruises when a man picked him up and threw him on the ground. The employee said the assault happened when he told a female customer that she could not carry her drink outside. It is not certain what relationship the attacker had to the female customer. Police are investigating. Cumberland County Home To Many Violent Sexual Predators
Cumberland County officials are warning residents about the dangers of sexual predators. In light of the multiple cases in Florida, local authorities are urging people to learn more about the 208 registered sex offenders that live in Cumberland County. Out of the 81 sexual-assault cases reported last year, 55 of them were against juveniles. Authorities also caution that much of the time a predator is a known person. Parents should be very aware of who comes in contact with their children. Police Warn Computer Users Of E-Mail Scam
Pennsylvania State Police are warning residents of an e-mail scam. A number of computer users have been notified regarding accounts in their name with the Internet auction site eBay. Police say eBay did not send the notices, but whoever did is trying to obtain personal information, such as birth dates, credit card numbers, and Social Security numbers. Anyone who has received this type of e-mail is strongly advised not to reply and not to click on any of its links. You're asked to contact state police or the Federal Trade Commission. Traffic Stop Leads To Auto Theft, Gun Charges
A Carlisle man is facing firearms and car theft charges, stemming from an April 19th traffic stop. State Police say they first came upon 25-year-old Felipe Reyes along Walnut Bottom Road, when he was waiting for a tow truck because of a flat tire. He was cited for public drunkenness, and advised not to drive the truck until he was sober. More than two hours later, police say Reyes had not left the scene and was arrested. The tow truck driver also advised troopers there was a .38-caliber firearm in Reyes' vehicle. Reyes admitted he did not have have a permit. It was also determined that vehicle, which was registered in South Carolina, had been stolen. SRU Issues Warning For Bacterial Meningitis
A case of bacterial meningitis was reported just off the campus of Slippery Rock University last night. University officials say a male student living off campus in the Pine Glen housing complex was diagnosed with the deadly bacterial infection. The university is warning all students who may have been in contact with the student that they may be at risk. However, the school is not releasing the student's identity to protect his privacy. Students who believe they are at risk should go to the student health center where they will be interviewed. If it is determined they know the student then they will be vaccinated. Middle Schoolers Face Underage Drinking Charges
Nine area middle schoolers are facing charges of underage drinking today. The students were allegedly caught drinking alcoholic beverages at Lamberton Middle School in Cumberland County last week. Police say two of the students brought the drinks to school and passed them around to friends. Motorists Urged To Slow Down Along Rural Roads
This week marks Rural Roads Safety Week in Pennsylvania. PennDOT, the state Department of Agriculture and the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau are joining forces to remind motorists to drive cautiously along rural roads and slow down and be patient when approaching farm vehicles. In 2003, PennDOT says 87 crashes along rural roads were reported with eight fatalities. County Dam To Be Removed
A Cumberland County dam will soon be destroyed. South Middleton Township Supervisors have voted to remove the Whitlinger Dam from the Yellow Breeches Creek. The dam is considered a safety hazard because of its age. The decision was made to protect boaters that use the creek. People Filing Before Bankruptcy Law Goes Into Effect
Central Pennsylvania residents wanting to file for bankruptcy are doing so before the new laws go into effect. According to WGAL-TV, local attorneys have seen an increased amount of clients wanting to file since the law was passed. The new bankruptcy code will make it more difficult for filers to avoid paying credit card debts. The changes go into effect October 17th. More Alcohol Related Arrests At Shippensburg
It was another busy weekend for State Police in Shippensburg, who made numerous alcohol-related arrests. The largest raid came at around 1:00 Sunday morning at 45 Sunbeam Court when troopers took into custody ten people between the ages of 17 and 20, seven of them Shippensburg University students. All were cited for underage drinking. In other separate incidents, police arrested seven people, six of them Shippensburg students, for underage drinking, public drunkenness or disorderly conduct. Carlisle May Allow Alcohol At Downtown Cafes
Downtown restaurants in Carlisle may soon be able to serve alcohol in their sidewalk cafes. The borough council is considering a request by restaurant owners to serve drinks outdoors. An amendment is expected to be voted on May 12th. Man Sentenced In Murder Of Franklin County Man
A Maryland man convicted of murdering Jonathan Dennis of Franklin County has been sentenced to life in prison plus 30 years. Tyshawn Jones killed Dennis during a fight at a housing complex in Hagerstown. Traffic Detail Results In 35 Speeding Tickets
State Police issued 35 citations and five warnings during a two-hour speed detail Sunday. Troopers were monitoring the cars along I-81 near the Hanover Street exit between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. This detail was part of their continuing efforts to get motorists to slow down along that stretch of 81. The speed limit has been lowered to 55 miles an hour and State Police say the fastest motorist ticketed Sunday was clocked at 80. Cumberland County Expresses Opposition To Light-Rail Line
Cumberland County commissioners have reiterated their opposition to the proposed light-rail system known as CorridorOne. At a recent meeting of the Harrisburg Area Transportation Study, commissioners say that more study is needed before the Cumberland County portion of the line is built. Phase one of the project stretches from Harrisburg to Mechanicsburg, with an eventual extension to Carlisle. The line is also to run from Harrisburg to Lancaster. Cumberland County officials say their position was bolstered when the question of who would fund the Cumberland County portion was met with silence. Dickinson Law School Expansion Committee To Be Formed
Saturday's public forum on the future of the Dickinson School of Law drew about 20 people to Trickett Hall. As part of its five-year-old affiliation with the law school, Penn State has agreed to a 40-million-dollar expansion of the Carlisle campus in addition to a second campus in State College. According to Dickinson Law School Dean Phillip McConaughey, a committee made up of faculty, students, staff and community leaders is being formed to draft a plan for what the expansion should look like. A preliminary report is due by early July. Motorist Arrested For Drug Use, Possession
A Perry County man is behind bars after a weekend traffic stop near Carlisle turned into a drug arrest. State Police say 24-year-old Christopher Bolden of Duncannon was stopped for speeding along southbound I-81 in Middlesex Township at around 3:45 Saturday afternoon. The state trooper who stopped Bolden says he detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the car, and a search determined Bolden was also in possession of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia. Bolden is in Cumberland County Prison on ten-thousand-dollars bail. Student Arrested Following Morning Fight
A Shippensburg University student is under arrest, charged with an incident just after midnight at a campus apartment complex. State police were called to the College Park Apartments for a fight in progress. Following a brief chase, officers apprehended Andrew Graeff, who is accused of breaking into one of the units by kicking down a door. No one was hurt in the fracas. Graeff is charged with disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, public drunkenness and underage drinking. Carlisle Says No To Act 72
Board members in the Carlisle Area School District have voted against opting into Act 72. The board decided not to accept revenue from slot machines in exchange for lower property taxes. Following last night's vote, Board President Fred Baldwin said the board felt the advantages to Act 72 were theoretical while the disadvantages were definite. Study Group Predicts High Social Costs For Slots
A study group today is saying that the social price Cumberland County will pay for gambling far outweighs the economic benefits. Leadership Cumberland has concluded their study on the effects a slot machine casino at Penn National Race Course will have on the county. They predict that residents will see an increase in drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, and suicides once the casino opens. The group also predicts that gambling addiction will rise significantly among residents within 50 miles of the casino. College Students To Have Access To More Financial Aid
College students will have access to more financial aid starting in the next academic year. The Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency this week voted to increase the maximum grant award to 35-hundred-dollars per semester, an increase of 200-dollars. In addition, grant aid will be available to an additional eight-thousand students. Under the new formula, 161-thousand students in Pennsylvania will be eligible for an average grant of 28-hundred-dollars per semester. Pit Bull Stolen In Monroe Township
Police are investigating the theft of a pit bull from the Cumberland County Humane Society. The four-month-old pit bull was stolen from the Eppley Road Humane Society in Monroe Township. Someone cut the lock to the cage and removed the dog sometime yesterday. Anyone with information is asked to contact Carlisle police. Letter-Writing Campaign Targeted To Save Carlisle Barracks
Carlisle officials are trying to mount a letter-writing campaign on behalf of the Carlisle Barracks and U.S. Army War College. Local residents are being encouraged to write to President Bush, asking him to spare the barracks from the list of U.S. military bases slated to close. Officials took out a full-page ad in Wednesday's "Carlisle Sentinel." The campaign has also won the endorsement of community leaders in Middlesex and North Middleton Township, which also benefit economically from the barracks. The base closing list is expected to be made public in September. Former Nurse Sentenced For Stealing From Patients
A former nurse at the Bethany Village Retirement Village in Lower Allen Township has been sentenced to eleven-and-one-half-to-23-months for stealing 25-thousand-dollars from two elderly patients in her care. Forty-seven year-old Mary Louise Ross of Harrisburg pleaded guilty to the thefts, which occurred between August and September 2001. Prosecutors say Ross obtained the funds through the patients' credit card accounts. Crash Could Have Been Much Worse
Two cars suffered severe damage, but no one was injured following a Wednesday morning crash near Carlisle. Police say a car driven by 28-year-old Kevin Rice of Carlisle ran a stop sign at Petersburg Road and Park Drive in South Middleton Township, and was struck by a car driven by Lesa Swenson of Mount Holly Springs. The impact sent Rice's car into a utility pole and Swenson's car into a tree. Both drivers, as well as a passenger in Swenson's car, were wearing seat belts and were not hurt. Police say Rice was cited for a seat belt violation. Old City Hall To Have New Owner
The former Mechanicsburg Municipal Building at 2 West Strawberry Alley will soon have a new owner. Borough Council has authorized the sale of the building to the Mechanicsburg Museum Association for 147-thousand-dollars. The building, once a passenger rail station, will be used to showcase Cumberland County's railroad history. Police Searching For Convenience Store Burglar
Carlisle Police are searching today for a convenience store burglar. The burglary took place early yesterday morning at the Uni-Mart store on Main Street in West Pennsboro Township in Cumberland County. The burglar broke in the front door and removed a large sum of cash from the store's safe. Anyone with information is asked to contact police. Dickinson College Professor Wins Book Award
A Dickinson College economics professor is now an award-winning author. The Association of College and Research Libraries has awarded its Choice 2004 Outstanding Academic Title to Charles Barone for his publication "Radical Political Economy, A Concise Introduction." The honor is presented for works published in the 2004 calendar year. New Superintendent In Big Spring Schools
The Big Spring School District has chosen a new superintendent. Forty-year-old Richard Fry was chosen out of a field of 17 applicants to succeed the retiring William Cowden. Fry, a 1982 Big Spring High School graduate, holds a Bachelor's degree from Lock Haven University and a Master's from the University of Richmond. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports Fry worked for several years in Virginia before returning to the midstate, where he is currently assistant superintendent in the East Pennsboro District. Youth Injured by Pipe Bomb
A 12-year-old Middlesex Township boy is in critical condition following a weekend explosion from an apparently homemade pipe bomb. Police say the boy was hurt when the device went off Sunday night. The unidentified youth was flown to Hershey Medical Center, then transferred to the burn unit at Lehigh Valley Medical Center. Public Form On Law School Plans
This Saturday will mark the first time the public will hear of the planned 40-million-dollar expansion at the Dickinson School of Law. The improvements are part of the two-campus plan approved earlier this year, which includes a new law school campus at State College. Law School Dean Phillip McConnaughay says Saturday's forum will be the first of many opportunities for the public to be heard on the plans. It will take place starting at 10 a.m. at Cafe Per Se at Trickett Hall. The exact plans for expansion at the Carlisle campus won't be finalized until a soon-to-be-named committee submits a firm building plan. That panel will be made up of law-school students, staff, faculty and Penn State representatives. Local Philanthropist Dies
Cumberland County is mourning the loss of a local philanthropist. Henry Stuart died on Friday at the age of 89. In 1990, Stuart started the G.B. Stuart Foundation, named for his late brother and law partner, George. Stuart contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars into many community projects. Among the recipients, according to the "Carlisle Sentinel," are the First Presbyterian Church in Carlisle, the Army Heritage Center Foundation, and Cumberland County Habitat For Humanity. Local Creeks Crowded On Fishing's Opening Day
Local creeks were crowded this weekend as fishermen came out in droves for the start of trout season. It is estimated that one-million people spent the day fishing. The nice weather was said to contribute to the large turnout. Prison Mentoring Program
A new program is underway today to mentor prison inmates about to receive their release. The program partners the inmate with a volunteer from the community. The volunteer is asked to be a friend to the inmate and encourage them as they re-enter public life. Department of Corrections spokeswoman Susan McNaughton says volunteers receive a background check and are trained before being paired with an inmate. Millersville University To Offer New Nursing Master's Program
Millersville University has announced plans to offer a master's of nursing education program. The university says it hopes to fill a void in nursing education by training nurses to teach. The university now offers three master's programs in nursing. The nursing education program will begin this fall. Higher Earnings For Two Midstate Financial Institutions
The parent company of Shippensburg-based Orrstown Bank is reporting record earnings for the first quarter of 2005. Orrstown Financial Services says earnings for the period topped 2-point-1-million-dollars, a 20 percent increase from the same period a year ago. Meanwhile, Lancaster-based Fulton Financial Corporation is reporting a 16-percent increase in earnings for the first quarter of 2005. Fulton earned 41-point-5-million dollars during the first three months of the year, compared to 35-point-8-million during the same period a year ago. Two-Day Anti-Drinking Conference Underway
More than 150 higher education and community leaders are in Camp Hill today and tomorrow for a conference on high-risk alcohol consumption in and around college campuses. The event, taking place at the Radisson Penn Harris Hotel, is co-sponsored by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, the national Alcoholic Beverage Control Association, the Pennsylvania Network Addressing Collegiate Alcohol and Other Drug Issues, and the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities. Report: Susquehanna River Nation's Most Endangered
The Susquehanna River is said to be the nation's "most endangered" river. A report from the group American Rivers states, "Throughout the Susquehanna watershed, aging sewer systems discharge enormous volumes of raw or poorly treated sewage, which eventually flow into the Chesapeake Bay." The Chesapeake receives its largest source of fresh water from the Susquehanna. The report warns that "unless local, state and federal lawmakers invest in prevention and cleanup, the Susquehanna will remain among the nation's dirtiest rivers and more and more of Chesapeake Bay will become a dead zone." Tree Pollen High In The Area
Some Central Pennsylvania residents may see a greater allergic reaction to tree pollen this spring. Cool, wet weather followed by warm, sunny days has caused a rapid release of the pollen. Pharmacists say most symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter drugs, but people should see their doctor if problems persist. Motorist Not Hurt When Car Slams Into Pole
A Shippensburg teen managed to escape injury following an early morning crash. State Police say 18-year-old Chad Conklin was traveling along Baltimore Road in Southampton Township at around 12:20 a.m., when he lost control along a curve. The car fish-tailed, then struck an embankment and a utility pole. Conklin, who was waring his seat belt, was not hurt. The investigation continues. Major Traffic Work Begins In South Middletown Township
PennDOT crews will be closing Route-174 daily in South Middleton Township between Route-34 and Boiling Springs while they install new drainage pipes along the roadway. The hours of closure will be between 8:30 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. for possibly the next three weeks. Major Construction Projects May Cause Delays
PennDOT is reminding motorists in Cumberland County of a pair of construction projects. Work began today to resurface portions of Mill Street and Park Drive. Lane restrictions are in place from Route-34 in Mount Holly Springs to Petersburg Road in South Middleton Township. The project is expected to last until mid-August. Meanwhile, near Mechanicsburg, westbound traffic on Route-114 has now been shifted into one of the eastbound lanes, with a concrete median separating eastbound and westbound travelers. That construction, between the Carlisle Pike and I-81, will last through June of next year. The speed limit has been lowered to 45 miles an hour through the work zone. Police Still Investigating Weekend Incident Involving Fake Police Officers
Carlisle Police Chief Steve Margeson says people shouldn't flee if pulled over by a police officer. If the car pursuing you is clearly marked, stop as soon as possible. If it's an unmarked car, Margeson's advice is to slow down, but not to pull over until you're in a safe, well lit, populated area. All this in the wake of a weekend incident in which a woman was pulled over on Spring Road near the Turnpike underpass, by two men who were impersonating officers. The woman was not hurt. Toll Calls May Be Eliminated Between Carlisle And Harrisburg
Phone calls between Carlisle and Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill and Harrisburg, may soon become less expensive. The state Public Utility Commission says it will allow Sprint, the local provider in Carlisle to expand its local calling region. That would mean the end of toll calls outside the immediate Carlisle area. Sprint will also be allowed to charge a temporary 35-cent surcharge to fund the expansion. The plan must still be accepted by Verizon, which provides local service to the eastern portion of Cumberland County as well as Harrisburg. Residents who have long sought the expanded calling area must also agree to the plan. Police Seek More Information Concerning Fight
State police are seeking additional information concerning a fight near the campus of Shippensburg University. It happened at around 11:30 Wednesday night in the parking area of the College Park Commons. Police say three males were involved and the fight resulted in damage to a car belonging to a Shippensburg resident. There is no word if anyone was hurt. Anyone with further information is asked to contact State Police at Carlisle. School Geography Bee Champion Moves To State Competition
A Cedar Crest Middle School eighth-grader is heading to Shippensburg University for the State Geography Bee. Nathan Deysher (DAY-sher) finally won the competition in which he has competed for five years. Today's competition is the first stage of the national competition. The National Geography Bee is sponsored by the National Geographic Society. Monday Crash Involving Four Vehicles Kills One
One person was killed and one person was critically injured in a four-vehicle crash along I-81. It happened at around 4 p.m. Monday between the Newville and Shippensburg exits. State Police say a southbound car drifted from the left to the right lane and hit the rear of a tractor-trailer. That caused the car to skid across the median and into the northbound lanes, where it was hit by two more vehicles. Authorities say the driver of the first car, 36-year-old Lisa Forquet of Winchester, Virginia, was killed in the crash. Another motorist, 34-year-old Robert Shipp of Carlisle, is listed in critical condition at Carlisle Regional Medical Center. A third motorist was not hurt, while the tractor-trailer did not stop for the crash. The accident caused northbound I-81 to be closed for nearly three hours. Items Thrown From Apartment Balcony Damage Resident's Car
Police are investigating a weekend act of criminal mischief. Sometime between 7 p.m. Thursday and 10 a.m. Friday, unknown persons threw a folding chair, a bucket of charcoal, a piece of a recliner and beer cans from a balcony at the College Park Apartments in Shippensburg, damaging a vehicle belonging to 19-year-old Amanda Rote. Anyone with information is asked to Shippensburg Police. Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Bust
A Cumberland County man is behind bars today after an encounter with the police. The suspect, 52-year-old Brian Hill of Shippensburg was stopped for speeding along Ritner Highway in South Newton Township early Saturday morning. It was determined he was driving under the influence of alcohol. Upon further investigation, police allegedly found two bags of suspected marijuana on his person. They also discovered that Hill was driving a car with expired registration and insurance. He was taken to Cumberland County Prison. Task Force May Recommend High School Drug Testing
Board members in the Cumberland Valley School District have approved appointing a task force whose job will be to decide whether the district should should begin testing high school students for drugs. If approved, according to the "Harrisburg Patriot-News," testing would begin in the next school year, and would include athletes, and those involved in extracurricular activities. Superintendent B. Jean Walker says the task force will be led by Athletic Director David Bitting, and made up of board members, district residents, and possibly students. The task force will have until June to make its recommendations to the board. Student Receives Rooftop Ride
Two Shippensburg University students face DUI and public drunkenness charges stemming from an overnight stunt. State police say it was just before midnight when troopers spotted a vehicle exiting Sunbeam Court near the intersection of Britton Court, with someone riding on the roof. The driver, 18 year-old Kyle Warner was found to be drunk and also faces underage drinking charges. His rooftop passenger is identified as 21-year-old Jason Mitchell. Theaters my Not Be Part Of Mall Plan
Ongoing renovations to the Camp Hill Shopping Mall may not include a 14-screen movie theater as originally envisioned. The "Harrisburg Patriot-News" reports mall owner Cedar Shopping Centers this week submitted documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission which included drawings of the newly designed mall, but instead of a Regal Cinemas multiplex, an LA Fitness center was in its place. In addition, Camp Hill Borough Council recently approved a land development plan which did not include the theaters. Either the theaters or the fitness center is set to open sometime late next year on the site currently occupied by a Giant Foods store, which is relocating to a 91-thousand-square-foot site elsewhere in the mall complex. Shippensburg Wins Grant For Juvenile Center
The Center for Juvenile Justice Research and Training at Shippensburg University has been awarded a 276-thousand-dollar grant. The money comes from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. It will used to create a three-year position at the Center, known as an Aftercare Specialist, to help juvenile offenders make the transition from detention center and jails, back into the community. Center Director Keith Graybill says he hopes to have the position filled by May 1st. Hockey Sticks Stolen
On Tuesday March 15th Shippensburg Police were called to 19 North Spring Street. Scott Heck, who made the phone call, told police that his two hockey sticks were stolen. Heck tells police he was outside packing his car, went inside and when he returned the sticks were gone. The hockey sticks are valued at one hundred and ten to one hundred and twenty dollars. Anyone with information should contact Shippensburg Police at 717-532-7361. Hit and Run Accident
Shippensburg Police are pursuing leads in a hit and run accident that took place on March 15 outside 9 North Queen Street. The suspect vehicle is believed to be a dark green Ford and would be missing it's passenger side rear view mirror. Evidence indicated that the vehicle would have been traveling north on Queen street between 7am and 5pm. Anyone with information should contact Shippensburg Police at 532 7361. Car Accident
No injuries were reported in an auto accident that took place on March 10th on West Orange Street outside of the Windmill Market. Nathaniel Catlett was attempting to turn his delivery truck right into the Windmill market when a vehicle driven by Travis Ott, 18 of Shippensburg attempted to pass him on the right. The delivery truck struck Ott's vehicle on the left side causing moderate damage. While passing on the right is legal in certain situations, Ott was found to be at fault in that case. Police Looking For Suspect Who Tried To Damage Truck Tires
State Police are looking for someone who has been apparently trying to puncture truck tires in the Shippensburg area. Police say over the weekend, two metal bars with sharply shaved edges, were discovered, along with several nails, in the area of 8 Cabin Lane in Southampton Township. Logging trucks regularly enter and leave the property. Anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at Carlisle. Crash Between Car, Two Tractor Trailers
An accident last evening between a car and two tractor-trailers shut down the southbound lanes of I-81 near Shippensburg for over two hours. It happened just after 6:30 near the King Street exit. State Police say a tractor-trailer jackknifed in the snow, hitting a car which was unable to avoid the skidding rig. The second rig was also unable to avoid the crash scene and slammed into a guard rail and also the first truck. Police say all three drivers were wearing seat belts and none was injured. Regal Purchases Owner Of MJ Mall Cinemas
A Carlisle movie theater is coming under new management. RC Theaters, which operates the MJ Mall Cinemas, has been purchased by Regal Cinemas. Regal already operates one midstate theater complex near Harrisburg, just off the Progress Avenue exit of I-81. This newest acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of June. HACC Tuition Hike Approved
Tuition is on the way up for students at Harrisburg Area Community College. Starting in the 2005-2006 academic year, tuition will increase 3.31 percent and the college will also charge an institutional fee of $5 per credit hour. That will mean a student with 12 credit hours will owe an additional $90 per semester. For students who are not from one of HACC's 22 sponsoring school districts, that increase will amount to $120 for 12 credit hours. HACC President Dr. Edna Baehre says the tuition hike is the result of two consecutive years of reductions in state funding. As a result, Baehre says the school is facing a budget deficit of $2 million this year and $3 million next year. In addition to its main Wildwood campus in Harrisburg, HACC also operates campuses in Lancaster, Lebanon, Gettysburg and a soon-to-be-built facility in York. Shippensburg University Students Could Win At Least 10 National Awards
Members of the Shippensburg University Chapter of the National Broadcasting Society found out Saturday, that they could win at least 10 awards at the National Convention, held this year in Los Angeles. The finalists for the 42nd National Student Electronic Media Competition, from the Shippensburg Chapter, are Jordan Conigliaro, James Hallman, Eric Heisler, Nikki Krize, Cosmo Losco, and Joe O'Neill, of SUTV and WSYC’s own Sara Bartlett and Melanie Warfel. The finalists for three categories in the competition have not been announced yet. The winners will be announced at the NBS Awards Ceremony on Saturday, March 12. For more information, visit the NBS website at www.nbs-aerho.org. CDBG Funding Allocated For Development In Shippensburg
Cumberland County Commissioners have agreed on a 70-thousand-dollar loan plan to go toward renovations of the former Gingerbread Man in Shippensburg. Developer Duaine Collier has already demolished the building and wants to replace it with a four-story, 20-thousand-square-foot complex to house retail establishments on the first floor and commercial businesses on the upper floors. The loan will come out of the county's portion of Community Development Block Grant funds. Twenty-Five Speeders Ticketed During 90-Minute Detail
State police held a speed enforcement detail over the weekend. From 9:30 to 11:00 Sunday morning, state troopers kept tabs on motorists traveling along I-81 near the Hanover Street interchange. The posted speed limit on that stretch of Highway is 55 miles an hour. During the 90-minute period, the drivers of 25 vehicles were cited for speeding, with the fastest motorist clocked at 85 miles an hour. Second Campus Approved For Dickinson Law School
By a vote of 20-14, the board of Governors at the Dickinson School of Law agreed to a two-campus plan proposed by Penn State, which would see a second law school campus built at State College, along with millions of dollars worth of renovations at the existing campus in Carlisle. According to the "Carlisle Sentinel," Governor Ed Rendell must also sign off on the plan by June 30th and has pledged over 20-million-dollars in state funds to go toward the renovations in Carlisle. Man Wanted In Carlisle Bar Fight Arrested Near Williamsport
A Carlisle man is in custody near Williamsport, almost a month after he escaped from police in connection with an incident in a bar. Police say 31-year-old Shawn Smith was arrested in Montoursville after authorities received an anonymous tip. It was January 31st when Smith was ejected from the 720 Cafe on North Hanover Street. Police say he later returned to the bar and threatened to shoot people, when he was arrested. Smith was being treated for minor injuries at Carlisle Regional Medical Center when he fled. He is in Lycoming County Prison awaiting extradition to Carlisle. Suspect Arrested In Numerous Sex Assaults
A Hagerstown, Maryland man has been named the chief suspect in a series of sexual assaults, including two in Franklin County. The "Harrisburg Patriot-News" reports 33-year-old Pov Srun was connected with the assaults via DNA evidence, according to Chambersburg Police Chief Michael DeFrank. One of the attacks took place September 16th in the parking lot of a K-Mart in Waynesboro, the second September 28th in a Weis Supermarket parking lot on Wayne Avenue in Chambersburg. Srun, who is a native of Cambodia, is being held in Maryland. Franklin County officials are unsure when he will face charges in Pennsylvania. Car Owner Being Sought Following Crash
State police are searching for witnesses to a Wednesday morning accident near Carlisle, as well as the owner of the car involved. Police say it was around 12:15 a.m., when a black Mazda Miata lost control while speeding along Mill Street near Woodcraft Drive in South Middleton Township. The car skidded onto the left shoulder, hit a guide wire and became airborne, traveling about 40 feet. The car then overturned and slid through a wooden shed, before coming to rest on its roof in a baseball field. By the time emergency crews arrived, the driver had apparently fled the scene. The car is registered to James Elash of Mount Holly Springs, but authorities have not yet located him. Anyone who may have seen the crash is asked to contact State Police at Carlisle. Law School Board of Governors To Vote
The Board of Governors at the Dickinson School of Law is scheduled to vote this Saturday whether to give final approval for a proposal which would see a second law school campus built on Penn State's main campus. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports the plan would not only include the 60-million-dollar campus at State College, but also renovations at the law school's Carlisle campus, worth up to 40-million-dollars. Possible Serial Rapist In Custody
A man arrested yesterday in connection with two sexual assaults in Maryland may also be tied to similar incidents in Pennsylvania. Thirty-three-year-old Pov Srun was arrested at his Hagerstown home and charged with the sexual assaults of multiple teenaged girls. Montgomery County Police in Maryland say there were DNA matches to two sexual assaults in Pennsylvania as well. According to the “Chambersburg Public Opinion” Srun may be responsible for two unsolved September attacks in Chambersburg and Waynesboro. Charges Filed In 1999 Murder Case
A DNA test has led to murder charges against a Carlisle man. According to the "Carlisle Sentinel," 28-year-old Terrell Floyd was being held for allegedly assaulting a clerk at the Molly Pitcher Hotel and a sample of his DNA taken from that case has also linked him to the May, 1999 beating death of 52-year-old Gary Massey, whose body was found inside his East Louther Street home. Sentencing Scheduled For Woman In Children Case
Sentencing is scheduled for next month for a Newville-area woman who admitted to leaving her two small children unattended. The "Harrisburg Patriot-News" reports 22-year-old Tonya Airesman answered yes when Cumberland County Judge Ed Guido asked her if she had left her one-year-old and two-year-old boys alone last May in squalid conditions in her West Pennsboro Township home. Acting on a tip, state police found the boys in separate rooms, naked and lying in their own waste. Prosecutors say this is not the first time the children were left home alone. Airesman pleaded guilty to endangering the welfare of children. County Coroner Announces Reelection Bid
Cumberland County Coroner Mike Norris wants to hang onto his job. Norris has announced he is running for a seventh term. In addition to the post he's held since 1982, Norris is a regional vice president of the Pennsylvania Coroners Association and immediate past president of the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners. New Deer Population Study Underway
The Pennsylvania Game Commission has launched the latest in a series of studies of the state's white-tailed deer population. Game Commission biologist Dr. Christopher Rosenberry says the new study seeks to answer a number of questions, including the percentage of female deer which survive from one hunting season to the next, the factors which influence their survival and how the deer respond to hunter movements. Officials say studying the female gives a more accurate measure of any changes in the overall deer population. Game Commission researchers are working with members of the Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at Penn State on the three-year study. Deadline Approaching To Apply For Federal Fire Grants
Pennsylvania Fire Commissioner Ed Mann is reminding volunteer fire companies and ambulance/EMS operators that February 28th is the deadline to apply for financial assistance under the 2004/2005 federal grant program. A total of 22-million-dollars has been allocated for fire company grants, while 5-million-dollars is available for ambulance and EMS services. The funds can be used for firefighter operations and safety training, service on existing debt or to purchase new equipment. Last year, grants were awarded to more than 25-hundred volunteer first-responder organizations in Pennsylvania. Kroll Associates Issued Final Report On State Police
A national monitoring group appointed by Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell reports the State Police have successfully implemented a new set of disciplinary standards over the past year. Forty recommendations were handed down in 2003 by the Office of the Inspector General to minimize misconduct by police officers and to ensure violators are adequately punished. The new discipline standards imposes a stricter code of conduct, requires immediate dismissal of a State Police member who is found guilty of serious misconduct and the prohibition of arbitrators reducing dismissal penalties. Orrstown Man Turns Himself In To Police
On the morning of Saturday, February 19, Justin Hockenberry went to the Shippensburg police station to turn himself in. An officer asked Hockenberry if he had committed any crimes, and he replied, “Yeah, I have marijuana and cocaine.” Hockenberry refused to say where he got the drugs, and then told the police that he wanted to go to jail. After the police tested the drugs, they fulfilled Hockenberry’s request and took him to the Carlisle Booking Center on charges of possession. A family member bailed him out later the same day. According to Shippensburg Police Hockenberry had been drinking before he arrived at the station. Rollover Accident Under Investigation
Seat belts may have saved the life of a Carlisle man in a weekend car crash. It happened along Route-641 near Bloserville Road just outside Newville early Sunday. State Police say a car driven by 21-year-old Michael Vincett left the roadway and traveled through a cornfield, and rolled over at least twice before coming to rest. Police say by the time they arrived, Vincett had fled the vehicle with unknown injuries. Police expect to interview Vincett as the investigation continues. One Person Injured In Three Car Accident
One person suffered minor injuries in three car accident today. Yvonne Biller was making a left turn onto West Garfield Street from Fayette Street when her car was struck by a car driven by Andrew Kuhn. Biller’s car then spun into the path of a third car driven by Dennis Lehman. Two of the cars sustained severe damage and had to be towed. Shippensburg Police are investigating the crash. Legislation Designed To Protect Patients
Hospital patients would have an added level of protection under legislation sponsored by Cumberland County state Senator Pat Vance. The measure would create two separate and distinct categories of crimes for which convictions would prevent an individual from being employed in a hospital. Under the plan, someone convicted of a serious crime such as rape or murder would be banned for life, but for less serious offenses such as shoplifting, a person could be hired only after ten years with a clean record. Underage Drinking Party Raided At Shippensburg
A weekend police raid in Shippensburg has resulted in eight arrests on underage drinking charges. Police were called to 15 Sunbeam Court at around 1:45 Sunday morning. The address in question houses the Alpha Chi Rho fraternity. Those arrested range in age from 18 to 20. Five of the eight arrested are Shippensburg University students. Accident Shuts Down Interstate
An icy patch of roadway along Interstate-81 is to blame for a multi-car pile up early Friday morning. Police say one car traveling northbound lost control on the icy roadway crashing into a guard rail, another motorist also lost control hitting the first car and a third car the followed suit adding to the pileup. No one in the third car was injured but the other two drivers and passengers were taken to Chambersburg Hospital. All three drivers were from out of state. Public Affairs Symposium Continues At Dickinson College
The 42nd Annual Public Affairs Symposium got underway Sunday at Dickinson College. This year's theme, Fitness, Physique and Psyche, began with last evening's keynote address by professional wrestler turned politician Jesse Ventura. Today's event focuses on healthy living and what we should know to deal with the obesity epidemic. Lectures and demonstrations by nutritionists, trainers, and workout experts will begin at 7:30 this evening in the Anita Tuvin Schlechter Auditorium on the Dickinson campus. Funding Targeted To Enhance Safety In Several Locations
The 2005-2006 state budget presented by Governor Ed Rendell earlier this month includes 200-million-dollars over the next four years under the Home Town Streets/Safe Routes to Schools program. The plan includes funding for Cumberland County such as more than 500-thousand-dollars for safety, sidewalk and lighting improvements along Bridge Street in New Cumberland. In addition, South High Street in Newville would receive more than 200-thousand-dollars for period lighting and brick crosswalks. No Charges Against Supreme Court Justice
A Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice will not face criminal charges for allegedly trying to carry a Swiss Army knife aboard an airplane at Harrisburg International Airport. Authorities say it was February 4th when Justice Thomas Saylor was informed he couldn't keep the knife as he boarded a flight to Philadelphia. Authorities say he later was found to have concealed the weapon inside his carry-on luggage. Federal authorities had already declined to press charges, and now, according to the "Harrisburg Patriot-News," Dauphin County DA Ed Marsico has made a similar decision. Marsico says Saylor would have faced a fine of only 300-dollars on state charges, but if federal prosecutors had pursued the case, the fine could have been as high as 6-thousand-dollars. College Student's Death May Be Drug-Related
The death last week of a college student from Steelton may be the result of a drug overdose. Twenty-year-old Michael McGoyne was found last Tuesday night in his bedroom on the campus on Indiana University of Pennsylvania. The Deputy Indiana County Coroner told the "Harrisburg Patriot-News" the official toxicology report won't be available for a week, but initial autopsy results show McGoyne had symptoms consistent with drug use, including fluid in his lungs, vomit in his trachea and swelling on the brain. McGoyne was a 2003 graduate of the Milton Hershey School, majoring in psychology at IUP. Carlisle Man Sentenced To Life In Double Murder In Virginia
A Carlisle man has been sentenced to life in prison in connection with a double murder in Virginia. A federal jury this week could have sentenced 32-year-old Brent Simmons to the death penalty. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports Simmons was found guilty in connection with the 1996 execution-style murders of his ex-girlfriend and her new boyfriend. At the time, all three were students at James Madison University. Simmons was already serving a 20-year sentence after pleading guilty to state charges of second-degree murder. This latest trial was for federal charges against Simmons under the Violence Against Women Act. Officers React After What Looked Like A Bomb Is Brought Into Carlisle Barracks
There were some tense moments Thursday afternoon in and around the Carlisle barracks. It was around 12:15 p.m. when, according to the "Harrisburg Patriot-News," security officers discovered what looked like an explosive device inside the car of a state government employee who was trying to enter the base as a visitor. The unidentified man was unable to provide the necessary identification to show he possessed the device legally, prompting security officials to act as if it was a real bomb, with extra security called in. The device turned out to be a replica of a bomb used for training purposes. The man was later able to confirm his identity. The incident lasted three hours. Three-Day Public Affairs Symposium This Weekend At Dickinson College
The annual Public Affairs Symposium gets underway this weekend on the campus of Dickinson College. The title of this year's event is "Fitness, Physique, and Psyche. The keynote speaker will be former professional wrestler turned politician Jesse "The Body" Ventura, who served one term as the Governor of Minnesota. His lecture begins at 7;30 Sunday evening in the Anita Tuvin Schlechter Auditorium. The event is free, but those planning to attend will be limited to two general seating tickets each. Harrisburg State Hospital Hotline Set Up
The state Department of Public Welfare has set up a toll-free hotline for family members of the 258 patients of Harrisburg State Hospital. The facility is set to close by the end of this year, and Welfare officials say the hotline is designed to provide information for those concerned about the process of relocating patients as the closing of the hospital gets underway. Staff members will also provide callers with the appropriate contacts for those seeking to continue care for the patients. The number is 1-800-803-7632. It's in operation Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. UPDATE: Shippensburg Student Did Not Run From Police
We have more information tonight about York resident Chase Butala who was hit by a car on Queen Street in Shippensburg last month. Pennsylvania State Police tell us that Butala ran out from a parking lot and into a car driven by David Hill of Mechanicsburg. Contrary to earlier reports, Butala did not run from the police. However, charges are pending against Butala for public drunkenness and being a pedestrian under the influence. County Mails Out Erroneous Tax Delinquency Notices
Cumberland County officials are admitting they mistakenly sent out delinquent tax notices to about four-thousand property owners. The notices stated that municipal and school tax payments were overdue and the properties in question could be sold at auction. Jerry Wilkes, the county's director of technology and information management, told the "Harrisburg Patriot-News" the mistake was made by a private company that printed the notices. Wilkes says they'll be notifying the affected property owners, apologizing for the mistake. County DA Running For Judge
Cumberland County District Attorney Skip Ebert says he wants to become a judge. Ebert, in his tenth year on the job, has announced his candidacy for the Cumberland County Judge's post which will become vacant later this year with the impending retirement of President Judge George Hoffer. Former state Attorney General LeRoy Zimmerman has been named honorary Chairman of Ebert's campaign. Dickinson College To Host Students From Middle East, Africa, Asia
For the second straight year, Dickinson College is participating in a cultural exchange program hosting students from the Middle East, South Asia and Africa during the spring and early summer. Dickinson is one of ten schools participating in the Partnership for Leaning Undergraduate Studies, or PLUS program, developed by the U.S. Department of State. The students will come to Dickinson from Iraq, Morocco, Syria, Kuwait, Bangladesh, and India. Underage Drinker Sentenced to Probation
A former Shippensburg University student was spared jail time, stemming from a drunken incident last fall. Cumberland County Judge Edgar Bayley acknowledged that 20-year-old Michael Venezia is currently undergoing alcohol treatment, in sentencing him to 12 months probation. The "Harrisburg Patriot-News" reports that last October, police in Shippensburg stopped Venezia for alcohol possession and giving false identification. Venezia then fled and ended up on the roof of a three story building, where he remained for two hours before being talked down by a state trooper. Before pronouncing sentence, Judge Bayley said that it sounds as though Venezia is on the right track. Convenience Store Owner Fined For Selling Illegal Cigarettes
A Franklin County business owner has been fined $600 for selling illegal cigarettes. Twenty-eight-year-old Syed Gaffar, who owns Zack's Exxon on Wayne Avenue in Chambersburg, pled guilty to one count of selling unstamped cigarettes, meaning they were not subject to the state sales tax. Authorities with the state Department of Revenue discovered 270 cartons of unstamped cigarettes at his store. Sales Via Internet Weren't Taxed
Pennsylvanians purchasing cigarettes online aren't exempt from paying taxes to the state. According to Pennsylvania Secretary of Revenue's Greg Fajt, residents buying cigarettes online still have to pay the appropriate taxes to the commonwealth if they haven't already done so. The U.S. Attorney's Office out of Virginia investigated two websites, www.cigoutlet.com and www.affordablecigs.com. They estimate purchases from the two websites cost Pennsylvania close to $27 thousand in cigarette taxes over the course of several years. Residents found willfully evading the cigarette tax can spend up to five years in prison and incur up to $15 thousand in fines. Keeping Tabs On Deer Population
The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has begun an aerial surveillance program designed to better keep track of the state's white-tailed deer population. Targeted areas include the Tuscarora State Forest in Perry County. The task will be carried out with the use of infrared cameras mounted aboard an aircraft. A total of 250 thousand acres in eleven counties will be targeted. Turnpike Improvements Underway
Pennsylvania Turnpike officials Tuesday broke ground on a 150-million-dollars project to make some major improvements in and around the Harrisburg East interchange. The project is designed to ease traffic backlogs at the tolls, and on the entrance and exit ramps. It will also replace the two-lane Turnpike bridge across the Susquehanna River with a three-lane span which will also include an emergency lane in each direction. The current bridge, which handles more than 24-thousand vehicles a day, is scheduled to be torn down in May 2007, when the new bridge is completed. "Great Pennsylvania Cleanup" Set For April 23rd
Three Rendell Administration cabinet secretaries gathered at the state capitol yesterday to announce plans for the Great Pennsylvania Cleanup. The second annual event is designed to bring together not only environmentalists and outdoor enthusiasts, but sportsmen, hunters, and anglers as well. The cleanup scheduled to take place April 23rd, in conjunction with Earth Day. An estimated 182-thousand Pennsylvanians took part last year, making it the largest one-day litter cleanup effort ever. Participants in Tuesday's kickoff event included PennDOT Secretary Allen Biehler, Environmental Protection Secretary Kathleen McGinty, as well as Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Michael DiBeradinis. Man Escorted From Bar Faces Multiple Charges
An intoxicated man escorted from a local bar is facing a number of charges. Police say 21-year-old Jason Booz of Shippensburg was escorted by staff from Wib's Bar early Sunday morning. Upon exiting the building, police arrived to find Booz allegedly intentionally damaging another patron's vehicle. He was taken into custody at which time he was allegedly found to be in possession of marijuana. He has been charged with drug possession, public drunkenness and criminal mischief. Strange Harassment At Local Store
Police are searching for a suspect in a harassment case. A 15-year-old exited the Big K-Mart in Shippensburg to find his bicycle tire punctured. The suspect approached the victim and demanded 20-dollars if the victim would assault him. The victim then proceeded to a nearby Wal-Mart where the suspect confronted him. The suspect then gave the victim 5- dollars for damaging his tire and fled the scene. The suspect is said to possibly be Native American, 35 to 40-years-old, five-feet-ten-inches tall, and weighing between 160 and 180 pounds. He had long black hair and was wearing a bandana around his head at the time. Sewer Authority Also Wants To Run Water System
The Cumberland-Franklin Joint Municipal Authority, which provides sewer service to four municipalities, is now seeking to provide water service to the area as well. The first step, according to the "Carlisle Sentinel," would be unanimous approval by the local governments, which would be affected -- Shippensburg Township, Southampton Township in Cumberland County, Southampton Township in Franklin County, and the borough of Orrstown. The Public Utility Commission would also have to give its approval. Traffic Stop Search Finds Drugs
A man stopped for speeding along I-81 also faces drug charges. Police stopped 20-year-old Brad Grenoble late Saturday evening for allegedly driving 73-miles-per-hour in a 55-mile-per-hour zone. Police say a search of the vehicle led to a find of marijuana. Grenoble was charged with one count each of possession of drug and drug paraphernalia and exceeding the maximum speed limit. Loss Prevention Officers Find More Than Just Merchandise
A man exiting the Big K-Mart was stopped by loss prevention personnel after being observed in the act of shoplifting. Twenty-three-year-old Joshua Grimes was allegedly found to be in possession of four DVDs that he had not paid for. Authorities say a further search found Grimes to be in possession of heroin and marijuana. He was taken to the Carlisle Booking Center where he was charged. Couple Arrested In Connection With Convenience Store Robberies
A Carlisle couple wanted on robbery charges in Silver Spring Township is now behind bars after being arrested in Perry County. State Police at Newport issued an arrest warrant for 23-year-old Andrew Meck and 21-year-old Angela Rudy. Police had information that the two were in a residence in the 2600-block of Valley Road in Marysville. They were taken into custody around 12:15 Saturday afternoon, waived extradition, and were returned to Silver Spring Township. Rudy and Meck are wanted in connection with recent convenience store robberies. Judge Upholds Firing Of Carlisle Police Officer
Cumberland County Judge Edgar Bayley has upheld a 2003 decision to fire a Carlisle police officer. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports Borough Council voted in May 2003 to dismiss Police Corporal Thomas Day, for statements he made accusing other officers of wrongdoing, and claiming a cover up by Carlisle Police Chief Steve Margeson. He was fired for conduct unbecoming an officer and disobeying an order. An investigation failed to substantiate the charge. Hospitals Agree To End The Practice Of Diverting Emergency Patients
Ten midstate hospitals have reached an agreement to no longer divert emergency room patients to other facilities. The practice of patient diversion had been common practice due to overcrowding conditions, but it also risked inadequate patient care. As a result, the New Cumberland-based Emergency Medical Services Foundation worked with the hospitals to come up with the agreement. The deal involves Harrisburg Hospital, Community General Osteopathic Hospital, Hershey Medical Center and Holy Spirit Hospital as well as Hanover Hospital, Carlisle Regional Medical Center, Chambersburg Hospital, Gettysburg Hospital, Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, and Waynesboro Hospital. C. Steven Lyle, Executive Director of the Emergency Medical Services Foundation, says seven other medical facilities are considering joining in the agreement. Thousands Turn Our For Community Book Effort
Last Year's "One Book, One Community" campaign is being considered a success. Libraries in seven counties including Cumberland, Adams, Dauphin, and York, offered residents the chance to read and discuss the book "Rocket Boys." Between late August and early November, the book was borrowed more than 85-hundred times, and more than 21-hundred area residents participated in related discussions, expert lectures, field trips, and screenings of the movie "October Sky," on which the book is based. Car Crash Leads To 20-Year-Old's Arrest For DUI
An accident has led to a DUI arrest for a Mechanicsburg youth. Police say they responded to the Wednesday evening crash along southbound I-81 in Dickinson Township. The driver of the car, 20-year-old Joshua Shoemaker, was found to be intoxicated and was taken into custody. At the Carlisle Booking Center, police say he failed a breathalyzer test. Along with DUI, Shoemaker is also charged with underage drinking, reckless driving, and a further investigation showed he had an outstanding warrant from Lower Allen Township Police on a theft charge. Shoemaker is in Cumberland County Prison with arraignment proceedings pending. Final Night Of Construction Expected Southbound Along I-81 In Franklin County
Tonight should be the final night of construction which has led to lane restrictions for southbound motorists along I-81 in Franklin County. Work on the new Exit 17 has resulted in traffic down to a single lane, detoured off the interstate, then back on using the new Exit 17 ramps. The work has been taking place all week, between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Once the construction ends in the southbound lanes, PennDOT crews will do a similar operation on the northbound side. Fatal December Crash Results In Criminal Charges
State Police have filed charges against a Carlisle man in connection with a fatal December car crash. The crash happened at around 12:50 a.m., December 18th, along Route 533 in Newville. Police say a car driven by 23-year-old Chad Michael Hutchinson was traveling at an excessive rate of speed when he cost control, and slammed into a tree. Hutchinson's passenger, 23-year-old Michael Chilenski of Newville, was killed in the crash. Today, Hutchinson was arrested and charged with homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence, involuntary manslaughter, and related offenses. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for next month. Fed Governor To Be Honored With Dickinson College Award
An official with the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank is the recipient of this year's Dickinson College Benjamin Rush Award. Fed Governor Edward Gramlich will be honored at a ceremony scheduled for March 2nd at the Stern Center on the Dickinson Campus. The Rush Award is given each year to an individual recognized for his or her excellence in government or business. Following the award presentation, Gramlich will present a lecture on the economics of budget and trade deficits and the effect on the U.S. economy. Teen To Be Tried As An Adult In Double Stabbing
A Hampden Township teen has been ordered to stand trial in connection with a double stabbing. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports 17-year-old Jonathan Michael Nester is being charged as an adult for allegedly stabbing two 18-year-old Carlisle High School students during a fight last December 18th, outside the Giant Foods store in Silver Spring Township. The two suffered stab wounds in the fight. Disagreements Delay Search For New Shippensburg President
The search for a new president of Shippensburg University is reportedly on hold. Faculty members continue to oppose the process for choosing a successor to Anthony Ceddia, who is retiring at the end of June. Two faculty members recently resigned from a nine-member search committee, citing what they claim is a lack of diversity among committee members, as well as prospective candidates. Cumberland County State Representative Glen Grell who chairs the search committee, said the faculty members' actions are "not encouraging at all." Another Request To Rename The New Big Spring High School
The Big Spring School Board will once again take up a request to name the new high school after one of its graduates who died in Somalia. The new request comes from Richard Chamberlain of West Pennsboro Township and a Korean war veteran. Board members three years ago rejected a similar request by the Pennsylvania VFW. Shugart was a 1976 Big Spring graduate, and one of 18 American soldiers who died during military action in Somalia in 1993, in a story depicted in the book and movie "Blackhawk Down." Board members say they will consider the new request at their next meeting February 22nd. Charged Filed In Murder Dating Back More Than Five Years
A Carlisle man has been charged in a 1999 murder case. Twenty-nine-year-old Terrell Floyd is charged with first and third-degree murder in the death of 52-year-old Gary Massey of Carlisle, whom authorities say was a police informant. Floyd was arraigned in Cumberland County Prison, where he is serving time on an unrelated offense. Sentence handed Down In Connection With Midstate Drug Ring
A Lower Allen Township man has been sentenced to two to eight years in state prison for his part in a Midstate drug ring. Forty-two-year-old Michael Sabella pled guilty in Cumberland County Court to charges of drug delivery, illegal use of a communication device and conspiracy. Authorities say the drug ring is responsible for distributing about $800-thousand worth of heroin throughout the region in the course of a year. The drug ring's leader, 38-year-old Julio Hernandez of Allentown, will be in Dauphin County Court for sentencing tomorrow. Suspect Identified In A Rash Of Convenience Store Robberies
A Carlisle man has been identified as a suspect in a number of recent robberies at area convenience stores. Police say 23-year-old Andrew Meck is wanted for the January 29th robbery at the Turkey Hill on South Market Street in Upper Allen Township, the January 14th holdup at the Uni-Mart on Wesley Drive in Lower Allen Township, and a holdup January 16th at a Uni-Mart in New Kingston. Police say Meck walks with a noticeable limp, and they also suspect his girlfriend, 22-year-old Angela Rudy, as the getaway driver. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the couple is asked to contact Cumberland County Control, at 238-7976. EZ Pass Machines On The Way
Buying E-Z Pass Transponders in Pennsylvania is about to get a little easier. A turnpike commission supplier has developed a kiosk that will automatically enroll new E-Z Pass customers and dispense the necessary windshield transponders. Turnpike officials say the first five machines will be installed over the next several months. Rendell On PHEAA
A key issue in Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell's budget address was funding improvements for college students. Rendell talks about the increased funding being made available by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency. Sallie Mae is seeking a 1-billion-dollar takeover of PHEAA. This year, PHEAA provided 359-million-dollars in free grants to 140-thousand-dollars in-state students. Individually, the grants are worth up to 33-hundred-dollars. Judge Caught With Knife At Airport
A Pennsylvania judge may face charges after attempting to board a plane with a pocketknife. Justice Thomas Saylor was held at Harrisburg International Airport last Friday after screeners discovered the knife in his carry-on bag. Officials say he was told that he couldn't carry it on board. Saylor said it was a gift from a friend and he did not want to lose it. If charged, he could face fines of up to six-thousand dollars. New Site Selected To Build Ethanol Plant
York-based Penn-Mar Ethanol has announced the location where it wants to build an huge ethanol plant, and it won't be in Lancaster County as originally planned. The company is expected to sign a deal to pay more than 2.2-million dollars for 55 acres near Letterkenny Township, Franklin County, to build a plant which is expected to open late next year. Penn-Mar had originally announced that the plant would be built on 65 acres along the Susquehanna River in Conoy Township. Late last year, those plans were put on hold while Penn-Mar officials considered other proposals which were apparently lower in cost that the Lancaster County site. Dickinson Student Charged In Bomb Threat
A Dickinson College student has been charged in connection with a bomb scare on campus. Police say it was Monday afternoon when a backpack with a threatening note attached was discovered in a classroom in the Jacob Tome Building. It and the nearby James Center were both evacuated, with local police, the county sheriff's office, and a bomb sniffing dog called in. The "Carlisle Sentinel" reports 18-year-old Colin Drew-Becker of Oakmont Pennsylvania, later admitted that he left the backpack and there was no bomb. He was arrested and charged and is now free on bail. Carlisle Mayor To Seek Sixth Term
Carlisle Mayor Kirk Wilson this morning announced his candidacy for a sixth term, but unlike past elections, Wilson will have some competition. Carlisle businessman and former borough council member Charles Andrews, a Democrat announced Monday that he will challenge the Republican Wilson in the November election. Andrews is co-owner of the Garden Gallery on North Hanover Street. According to the "Carlisle Sentinel," Wilson says his priorities will include keeping the Carlisle Barracks open, as well as the preservation of the Dickinson School of Law. For his part, Andrews will focus on making Carlisle a more liveable community, and marketing the area as a day trip destination for tourists. Coroner Says Seat Belts Could Have Saved More Lives
In his annual report to Commissioners, Cumberland County Coroner Mike Norris says his office investigated 21 traffic fatalities in 2004, down from 25 in the previous year. Norris says he is certain that six of those killed in car accidents last year would have survived if they had been wearing their seat belts. In fact according to Norris, over the last 15 years, a total of 160 people died in car crashes in Cumberland County due lack of seat belt use. In addition, in 2004 Norris' office investigated 28 other accidental deaths, 20 suicides and two homicides. Pennsylvania In Top Ten Of Most "Sexually Adventurous" States
Pennsylvania may have been founded by Puritanical Quakers, but their views don't apparently extend to the bedroom here. The Keystone State was the tenth most "sexually |
