array_files=new Array();
array_files[0]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/022908karate.htm","2009-03-14","9K"," Congratulations to these Champions from the Washington Academy of Martial Arts     ","",""," Congratulations to these Champions from the Washington Academy of Martial Arts Back to Front, left to right John Bloemaker, Jack Housteau, Frank Yuvan, Master Robert Vingiquerra, Jennifer Valentic, Edward Chiu, Elliot Chiu, Gerry Schumacher, Eric Nolin, Issac Rudman, John Plants, Jalen Scott, Michael Frio, Weylin Gomez, Zack Johnson, Jared Watson, Andrew Gomez and Carrick Hazlett (pictured seperately to right) Congratulations to these Champions from the Washington Academy of Martial Arts February 29, 2008 Located at two convenient locations: Besides Lowerys on Route 18 in Canton Township and on Route 19 in McMurray, Pa. Call (724) 229-8019 for more details All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com     ");
array_files[1]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/022208pleaagreement.htm","2009-03-14","16K"," Plea Agreement Possible     ","",""," Plea Agreement Possible PLEA AGREEMENT POSSIBLE February 22, 2008 Washington-Sources are commenting that Pettit could be willing to plea to a series of lesser charges in the upcoming months. While most insiders are reporting that April is the date of a possible indictment, others are stating that Pettit will never go to trial. But people close to the long time former District Attorney informed us “That doesn’t sound like John” in reference to his wanting to plea to anything. Instead, they believe that the long time District Attorney will fight right up to the last day possible. Pettit, whatever one might think, has always been regarded as a fighter. His toughminded approach to politics and the criminal system caused him to be feared by all that dared oppose him. Some people in the general public have become concerned that Pettit who became known as “Teflon Johnny” would avoid any possible criminal prosecution. But insiders and those close to the investigation have informed The Weekly Recorder that there is little chance of that outcome. One report was “He is in a lot of trouble” referring to the possiblity of over 150 counts facing the once powerful District Attorney. The Weekly Recorder will continue to follow each week the never ending saga of John Pettit along with all the other political news that surrounds Washington County’s most recent and possibly greatest scandal. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com OTHER ARTICLES Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Visit New Zealand GTX08502 6 Tarbuck Confirms that He was Subpoenaed to Testify Against Pettit Source: Pettit is in New Zealand Source States Tarbuck Wants Immunity to Tell Whole Story Tarbuck Hires Greggs Defense Attorney “CALL ME DADDY” Sources: Pettit liked the girls to call him “Daddy” Oral Fixation Dominates Activites Who Was It? Tiffany Ryan Testifys Hes Back     ");
array_files[2]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/022208arizona.htm","2009-03-14","17K"," Going Back to Arizona     ","",""," Going Back to Arizona GOING BACK TO ARIZONA February 22, 2008 Washington-If the on-going Federal Grand Jury investigating former District Attorney John Pettit is bothering him, it is sure isn’t stopping him. Pettit soon after coming back to Washington is on another trip, this time to the state of Arizona. Pettit visits Arizona regularly to see his sister and is planning on staying there two weeks. The frequent trips to visit his sister is not unusual for the long time former District Attorney. Petitt has always been close to his immediate family with the obvious exception of his now estranged wife, Sandra. Pettit according to sources is planning on leaving his South Main St. apartment and moving into one of his other properties. One possibility is that he might move back onto his property in Canton township, where his wife is now living. There are multiple homes on the property, so they would not have to live together. But Pettit has other properties that he could easily move into, so where he will end up remains to be seen. Pettit has been seen using a new car also in the past few weeks. This car, like many before, is believed to have been given to him from his friend and political ally, Vincent LoCastro. LoCastro and Pettit’s relationship including the handling of issues surrounding LoCastro’s car business were questioned by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette in a series of articles by Joe Smydo. Sources around Washington commented this week that Pettit was informing them that during his recent trip to New Zealand he actually parasailed and jet skied in the Pacific ocean. Whether this was the case, or Pettit was attempting to show that he continuing vigor is unknown. Regardless, Pettit has shown that he is continuing to live the good life while awaiting the coming results of the Federal Grand Jury. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com OTHER ARTICLES Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Vis      ");
array_files[3]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/121407stout.htm","2009-03-14","11K"," SOURCES: STATE SENATOR J. BARRY STOUT IN WASHINGTON COUNTY HOME     ","",""," SOURCES: STATE SENATOR J. BARRY STOUT IN WASHINGTON COUNTY HOME All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com SOURCES: STATE SENATOR J. BARRY STOUT IN WASHINGTON COUNTY HOME December 14, 2007 Washington-Powerful State Senator J. Barry Stout is again having health problems. Stout is currently (as of Tuesday) located in Washington County Health Center in a private room according a gaggle of sources within the Democratic party. Party faithful were upset that Stout would be using a facility that they believe was built to help low income seniors during their health problems. One high ranking Democrat told us “it is wrong, that was not why that facility was built” while others, all of wish wished to speak anomalously, agreed with that general sentiment. Stout suffered from a series of health issues over the past decade. His frequent hospital stays have not been released to the general public, though The Weekly Recorder has brought them to their readers attention numerous times. The physical problems of the Senator, combined with the alleged advantage that his family’s businesses have received locally have been a subject of controversy for years. While Stout has always been combative when questioned in the past about his family’s business dealings, he has been proud of his record of finding money for every project that he favors in the county. “Stout got Clout” is the slogan that the long time Senator has posted in numerous locations including the former Falconi Field, home of the Washington Wild Things. Stout’s numerous declining health has lead many to speculate that State Rep. Tim Solobay will take over his seat when and if the Senator leaves office. But Solobay’s moment might have passed as others are reconsidering a run for the office. Though she has previously stated that she would not run, Greene County Commissioner Pam Snyder is gaining buzz as a future candidate for Stout’s seat. Two of Washington County’s Commissioners, Larry Maggi and Diana Irey are also rumored to be possible candidates      ");
array_files[4]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/","2009-03-14","41K"," Weekly Recorder News     ","",""," Weekly Recorder News All Rights Reserved City of Washington South Strabane / Trinity John C. Pettit Other Articles December 21, 2007 January 4, 2008 November 23, 2007 December 14, 2007 February 8, 2008 January 11, 2008 January 25, 2008 February 1, 2008 January 18, 2008 South Strabane On Verge of losing Tax Collectors against their Will South Strabane fighting it’s own Demons An Update on South Strabane’s “Field of Schemes” South Strabane Supervisors Blindly review Budget Will South Strabane Strike Out Again with Trinity South Strabanes Cowardly Lion Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Visit New Zealand Pettit Takes Everything But the Lamp Tarbuck Confirms that He was Subpoenaed to Testify Against Pettit Source: Pettit is in New Zealand Source States Tarbuck Wants Immunity to Tell Whole Story Tarbuck Hires Greggs Defense Attorney “CALL ME DADDY” Sources: Pettit liked the girls to call him “Daddy” Oral Fixation Dominates Activites Hes Back Who Was It? Tiffany Ryan Testifys Sports Vs. Education South Strabane Other Paulette Benard Suit Could Be Settled STEVE TOPRANI The Weekly Recorder’s 2007 MAN OF THE YEAR Democratic Dispute Settled THE RETURN OF RETOS - 2007’s Kingmaker Muslim Groups Influence Grows with Democratic Candidates George Vitteck Wins Democratic Nod Murder in Charleroi Canton Reorganizes Matt Staniszewski Finally Heading to Jail Council Expresses Relief and Sadness at Conviction Work Release, Could There be Issues? Stout Finally Leaves County Home White Votes Against Perzel Amendment SOURCES: State Sentator J. Barry Stout in Washington County Home Going Back to Arizona Plea Agreement Possible Honor Roll February 15, 2008 Washington Academy of Martial Arts Champions February 29, 2008 March 7, 2008 Who is Joining the Sinking Ship? Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor Meet Eirik Westcoat, Candidate for Republican Delegate Ryan Steffan Arrested Two Arrested in Task Force Heroin Investigation Two Found Murdered     ");
array_files[5]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/","2009-03-14","28K"," Weekly Recorder News     ","",""," Weekly Recorder News All Rights Reserved City of Washington South Strabane / Trinity John C. Pettit Other Articles Other December 21, 2007 January 4, 2008 November 23, 2007 December 7, 2007 December 14, 2007 February 8, 2008 January 11, 2008 January 25, 2008 February 1, 2008 January 18, 2008 South Strabane On Verge of losing Tax Collectors against their Will South Strabane fighting it’s own Demons An Update on South Strabane’s “Field of Schemes” South Strabane Supervisors Blindly review Budget Will South Strabane Strike Out Again with Trinity South Strabanes Cowardly Lion Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Visit New Zealand Pettit Takes Everything But the Lamp Tarbuck Confirms that He was Subpoenaed to Testify Against Pettit Source: Pettit is in New Zealand Source States Tarbuck Wants Immunity to Tell Whole Story Tarbuck Hires Greggs Defense Attorney “CALL ME DADDY” Sources: Pettit liked the girls to call him “Daddy” Oral Fixation Dominates Activites Hes Back Who Was It? Tiffany Ryan Testifys Paulette Benard Suit Could Be Settled STEVE TOPRANI The Weekly Recorder’s 2007 MAN OF THE YEAR Democratic Dispute Settled THE RETURN OF RETOS - 2007’s Kingmaker Muslim Groups Influence Grows with Democratic Candidates Sports Vs. Education George Vitteck Wins Democratic Nod Murder in Charleroi Canton Reorganizes South Strabane Matt Staniszewski Finally Heading to Jail Council Expresses Relief and Sadness at Conviction Work Release, Could There be Issues? Stout Finally Leaves County Home White Votes Against Perzel Amendment Pettit Interview     ");
array_files[6]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/pi112003c.htm","2009-03-14","11K"," November 2003 Pettit Interview - page 3     ","",""," November 2003 Pettit Interview - page 3 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com Pettit Interview, November 2003, page 3... Q: Every murder is a priority, but would you say this is a priority to find who did this? Answer: No, you are correct that every homicide is a priority. Here you have a double homicide. You have two victims, two families. Person or Persons willing to kill two people on the same occasion. That makes this a case that we will very much want to solve. But by the same token, where two people are drinking in tavern and one of them is found dead and the other is not found, we want to solve that one just as much. The fact that this is Fred Brilla had nothing to do with this. There is nothing that makes it a priority anymore than other homicide. COMMENTARY: Actually, Petitt did make it a priority. The reason he stated later was that it was a plot to kill him. Pettit fought all attempts to remove him from the case before eventually removing himself. Q: These two men did not kill each other did they? Answer: I don’t think I am in a position how they died, because the investigation is continuing. I have heard that theory floating around out there, I would say just without any specific knowledge or reference that it would appear to me to be doubtful. Q: You are looking for a suspect? Answer: We are looking for person or persons. Q: Will Warco do a Coroner’s inquest? Answer: I don’t think that he would. An autopsy has already been done. COMMENTARY: Warco has only done one inquest during his time in office. He has avoided allowing the public access to the results of his autopsy. This is quite different than the previous coroner Farrell Jackson, who believed in keeping everything in the public eye. Q: Anything else you wish the public to know? Answer: The violence involved in the killing of two persons if anything makes this case not a priority, but makes law enforcement want to solve this as quickly as possible. For some person or person to kill two people, that is a violent act.      ");
array_files[7]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031408clinton2.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary (page 2)     ","",""," Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary (page 2) Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary (page 2) She, like other strong women, is instead given another name. But she has prevailed. She has the experience. And she experienced what it took to run a country before with her husband. We weren’t scared of terrorists, losing our jobs or our homes, outsourcing, or the price of gas. She has actually served on the senate and not just put in a year and then decided she was presidential material. She has actual plans for health care and long-term plans for alleviating the need on fossil fuels. She’s been there, done that and shown us she can do it on her own and not because someone with an afternoon television show is standing behind her. And being someone who is vain I must say I’m impressed that out of the candidates left on both sides she is holding up the best. And really that says a lot about how she will be able to handle our country under stress. For her getting into the White House will be the hardest part, not the actual job itself. Clinton’s questions ended in Canonsburg with Democratic County Chair George Vittech thanking him for coming and shaking his hand. The room had become very warm and Clinton looked as though he was spent for the day but did stay for a few more minutes to get pictures and sign some more autographs. And unlike the younger crowd at W&J, he had come to and talked about the concerns of Washington’s biggest voting group, our senior citizens. As he left there were still those who couldn’t get in standing outside of the center waiting for there chance to see one of the most popular presidents of our time, holding signs for his wife. At the end of the day it was my college dream come true. I got my picture taken with Clinton, shook his hand and got an autograph. My sisters and their friends say it may be because I resemble Monica Lewenski, I really don’t care because it was a good day. And hopefully the student at W&J will remember the day as less of a disappointment and more as a day w      ");
array_files[8]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031908arrest.htm","2009-03-14","19K"," Heroin Investigation Arrest     ","",""," Heroin Investigation Arrest Heroin Investigation Arrest March 19, 2008 Canonsburg, Pa- The Washington County District Attorney Steven M. Toprani and the Washington County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force announced the arrest of Patrick Cullen, age 23, of 111 Lexington Drive , McMurray , PA on March 17, 2008. Based on information received, members of the Washington County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force with assistance of the Canonsburg Police Department arrested Patrick Cullen. Sources provided information that Cullen was delivering Heroin to an unnamed individual in the parking lot of the Shop-N-Save in Canonsburg , PA. With this tip detectives set up surveillance in the area and Cullen was apprehended. As a result of the arrest 12 bags of Heroin, 2,000.00 cash, and a 2007 Nissan Maxima used to facilitate the transportation of drugs were seized. Cullen was arraigned before M.D.J. Ellis on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession with Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance. Cullen was committed to the Washington County Jail on 25,000.00 cash bond. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com GTX17590 3 GTX17590 6 News Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor Who is Joining the Sinking Ship? City Beat, 3/21/08 April/May is Apparent Deadline for Pettit Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County City Beat, 3/14/08 Former President Visits W & J Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary Pettit Moves Back Home FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People Sports Articles Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Sports Beat, 3/14/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory Sports Beat, 3/21/08 Wraslin Round Up Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/7/08 Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio “Hairspray” set to play at Heinz Hall Obama’s Continental Divide Campaign Briefs     ");
array_files[9]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031908clinton.htm","2009-03-14","20K"," Clinton Talks the Price of Gas     ","",""," Clinton Talks the Price of Gas CLINTON TALKS THE PRICE OF GAS By Alisha M. Kendall The Weekly Recorder March 18, 2008 On Friday afternoon, roughly 25 members of the press piled into a small gas station in Pittsburgh, while about 200 other people waited outside, hoping for just a glimpse of Hillary Clinton. Scheduled to arrive at 2:30, the Senator was about a half of an hour late, which caused a ruckus outside. People started yelling outside, some for Hillary, cheering her name, and others against, telling her to “Go Home.” After much awaited anticipation, Hillary arrived at the small gas station, and the crowd outside went wild, while the press kicked it into gear, turning on video cameras, recorders, and microphones, to make sure not a word of what she had to say would be missed. The point of the conference was to discuss the prices of gas and other types of fuel/energy that are currently being used in the United States. The cost of energy has increased since President Bush has taken office. The average person now spends more than 2,000 more on energy a year than they did before Bush was in office. The best President Bush can offer seems to be “too little too late.” Hillary mentioned how Vice President Cheney has been warning his ‘big oil friends’ in other countries to be careful, that America might become energy independent in order to have control over our own destiny and get the cost down for energy in our own country. She discussed the energy bill of 2005 and how it contained billions of dollars of giveaways for big oil companies, and the prices have continued to rise still. She has advocated for several years that the federal government and agencies are given more power to investigate why the prices go up when they do. The prices seem to go up without any relation to anything else, and the public has no indication of why this happens. She also believes that the federal government should have more power to set the prices for oil, and keep them regulated. She also believes that the Strategic Petroleum Rese      ");
array_files[10]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031608clinton.htm","2009-03-14","20K"," Clinton Campaign Marches Into St. Patrick’s Day     ","",""," Clinton Campaign Marches Into St. Patrick’s Day Clintons Team Responds to Obamas Attacks By Peter Glasser The Weekly Recorder March 16, 2008 Hillary Clinton’s team held a Saturday telephone press conference to discuss her experience with, and anticipated policies toward, the peace process in Northern Ireland. Senator Clinton was not present but was represented by her campaign’s foreign policy director, Congressman Neil and Congresswoman McCarthy. Along with reporters from the major U.S. media and Irish television, the Weekly Recorder managed to sneak in. The three cited examples of her participation in the peacemaking process as both Senator and First Lady, her support of the appointment of George Mitchell as special envoy, and fielded questions about what a new Clinton administration’s policies in the area would look like. Questions were posed about the choice of topic itself. The responses centered on Pennsylvania’s Irish American population and the proximity of St. Patrick’s Day. What I found most interesting, however, was that the press conference appears to have been held in reaction to an increased frequency and ferocity of attacks from the Obama campaign, in particular on Hillary Clinton’s foreign policy skills. Indeed, many of the responses contained angry responses to Obama criticisms of her. It is almost a month and a half from the Pennsylvania primary, seemingly a bit early for such an escalation in head butting. I wanted to know if the escalation in attacks on Senator Clinton could be due to some indication that she was going to do much better in Pennsylvania’s primary than had been expected up to now, more than just a win, perhaps a huge victory. The response was that Senator Obama had no meaningful foreign policy experience and, unable to tout his own abilities, was reduced to attacking Clinton’s. The problem with that answer is, the relative international experience of the candidates has not changed over the course of the presidential campaign. Neither one has jumped into some world hot spot and      ");
array_files[11]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/030708steffan.htm","2009-03-14","16K"," Ryan Steffan Arrested     ","",""," Ryan Steffan Arrested George Vitteck on the Assault Your Tax Dollars at Work Sports Articles The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Penguins Make Trade Photos from the NFL Scouting Combine Goodbye Myron Editorials More News Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor City Beat, 2/29/08 Who is Joining the Sinking Ship? Two Found Murdered Meet Eirik Westcoat, Candidate for Republican Delegate City Beat, 3/7/08 RYAN STEFFAN ARRESTED March 7, 2008 Canonsburg, PA- Washington County District Attorney Steven M. Toprani announced today the arrest of Ryan Steffan, age 30, of 557 Swihart Street, McDonald, PA, following an on going investigation by the Washington County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force. Ryan Steffan was arrested on March 6, 2008 by members of the District Attorney’s Drug Task Force and the support of the Canonsburg Police Department as a result of undercover investigation concerning the distribution of crack cocaine. A Search Warrant was executed at Steffan’s residence this same date, at which time an ounce of Marijuana was seized as well as Steffan’s vehicle which was used to facilitate the transportation of Crack Cocaine. Steffan was arraigned before M.D.J. David Mark on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance and Delivery of a Controlled Substance. He was committed to the Washington County Jail in lieu of 25,000.00 bond. Two Arrested in Task Force Heroin Investigation Ryan Steffan Arrested All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com     ");
array_files[12]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/030507arrested.htm","2009-03-14","18K"," Two Arrested in Task Force Heroin Investigation     ","",""," Two Arrested in Task Force Heroin Investigation TWO ARRESTED IN TASK FORCE HEROIN INVESTIGATION March 5, 2007 Washington, PA – Washington County District Attorney Steven M. Toprani announced today the arrests of two adults, Stuart “Bumpy” Johnson, Jr., age 23, of 705 Municiple Street , Pittsburgh , PA and Kristine McBride, age 21, of 30 Valley View Drive , Washington , PA , following an ongoing investigation. Both individuals were charged with possession, possession with intent to deliver, and criminal conspiracy. A search warrant was served at a Washington area motel room located at West Chestnut Street by Detectives of the District Attorney’s Drug Task Force. In assistance was North Franklin Police Department. As a result of the search of the motel room, the detectives recovered 200 bags of Heroin, computers, various electronic equipment and 1,000.00 cash. Also seized was the vehicle used to transport the narcotics. “I am very pleased to announce the two arrests from this extensive investigation into the heroin trade in Washington . The people of Washington can expect more such arrests as we continue to fight illegal drugs,” said District Attorney Steven M. Toprani. George Vitteck on the Assault Your Tax Dollars at Work Sports Articles The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys THE BATTLE OF LIGHT AND DARKNESS The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 Washington County is locked in a battle of light and darkness and for the first time in my life, the forces of light are starting to win. Diana Irey and Steve Toprani stood bravely on Wednesday to ask for the simplest thing, an investigation into the obvious. Whether something at least procedure wise needs to change at the Washington County Jail. But Commissioner Bracken Burns came forward with the most innane comment possible calling the allegations surrounding the jail “Street talk and rumors”. Is it rumor that FBI agents have seized records? Is it rumor that employees of the Wash      ");
array_files[13]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/030708westcoat.htm","2009-03-14","17K"," Meet Eirik Westcoat, Candidate for Republican Delegate     ","",""," Meet Eirik Westcoat, Candidate for Republican Delegate MEET EIRIK WESTCOAT, CANDIDATE FOR REPUBLICAN DELEGATE March 7, 2008 Eirik Westcoat wants you to vote for him for delegate to the Republican national convention. But the question is whether Republicans will even consider the openly heathen Westcoat. Westcoat is a 31 year old, semi-student from Coal Center. A native of Western Pennsylvania, Westcoat is supporting Ron Paul and his movement in an attempt “to make the party more conservative” Westcoat stated. Westcoat has various websites promoting his faith in heathen gods with pictures. Westcoat is pictured hanging from a tree with hooks in his back to gain wisdom. “It hurt but not as much as you would think” he told us Wednesday. Westcoat recently challenged the petitions of long time Republican Tom Uram and managed to force Uram to withdraw from the race for delegate. Now the road is easier for Westcoat. He is one of five men vying for three positions. But will Republicans vote for an openly pagan worshiper? Are the worshipers of Thor the Thunder God really the type of representatives that Western Pa Republicans want? Westcoat assured us that though he supports Paul on the war in Iraq, he is not a pacifist. In fact, his religion is a warrior cult that speaks of death in battle being glorious. Westcoat stated that he hung from the tree (photos in print edition) for nearly thirty minutes. “I lost track of time” mainly he stated because of not having a watch. Some might believe that Westcoat’s faith is a fad, but he assured us that he and his twin brother are true followers. Laughing he told us “This is not a fade”. Westcoat’s group of followers locally only consist of his brother and himself, though he told us that there are many others that hold true to the pagan faith of the Vikings. George Vitteck on the Assault Your Tax Dollars at Work Sports Articles The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Penguins Make Trade Photo      ");
array_files[14]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/030708springer.htm","2009-03-14","16K"," Two Found Murdered in Carroll Township     ","",""," Two Found Murdered in Carroll Township TWO FOUND MURDERED IN CARROLL TOWNSHIP March 7, 2008 A husband and wife were found apparently murdered in Carroll Township late on Wednesday. Howard Springer and his wife Nancy were found by their daughter. Reports state that there were no signs of apparent robbery, leading many to speculate that it was an intential murder of Carroll Township’s former police chief. Springer left office while be investigated for protecting video poker operations. He was given probation after his conviction in 2000. Springer was a neighbor to District Attorney Steve Toprani’s parents and the deaths are likely to deeply effect the newly elected District Attorney. Our prayers are with the families of the victims. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com George Vitteck on the Assault Your Tax Dollars at Work Sports Articles The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Penguins Make Trade Photos from the NFL Scouting Combine Goodbye Myron Editorials More News Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor City Beat, 2/29/08 Who is Joining the Sinking Ship? Two Found Murdered Meet Eirik Westcoat, Candidate for Republican Delegate City Beat, 3/7/08 Two Arrested in Task Force Heroin Investigation Ryan Steffan Arrested     ");
array_files[15]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/060608russell.htm","2009-03-14","20K"," Republican Russell in Trouble     ","",""," Republican Russell in Trouble REPUBLICAN RUSSELL IN TROUBLE The Weekly Recorder June 6, 2008 The Republican challenger William Russell to Congressman Jack Murtha is under assault from an unlikely source. Larry Stiles, a veteran of Vietnam and the former campaign coordinator for Russell’s grassroots challenge to Murtha has field a series of complaints to the Federal Elections Commission against Russell. Stiles alleged that Russell has failed to properly disclose his expenditures and donations as required by Federal Law. Stiles sent the letter on May 9, 2008 via certified mail to Thomasenia P. Duncan, General Counsel for the FEC in Washington DC. His alleged counts against Russell are as follows: Count 1 Russell has failed to allegedly disclose either expenditure or in kind donation for his campaign headquarters. Count 2 Failure to disclose payment for his website to I-IMS of Johnstown Pa. Stiles also alleged that Russell failed to disclose a 3,000 payment to Stiles as part of his federally required reporting. Count 3 Russell allegedly held a Meet the candidate’s night on January 25, 2008 but did not allegedly disclose the money spent on the event or received. Count 4 More complaints by Stiles regarding Russell’s website and allegedly failing to disclose it. Count 5 Alleged failure to print the disclosure statement on advertising Count 6 Stiles alleged that Russell did not include on his mailings the proper disclosure statements. Count 7 Stiles alleges that Russell failed to disclose 12 donations received through his website including money from Steve Maloney, Marvin Glaser, Beverly Perlson, Perry Moy, Andrew Metrick, Michael Heaney, Suzanne Patterson, Mary Alger, Joseph Shuey, James Irvin, Kyran Molloy, and Jean Bender. Stiles accuses Russell of illegally shielding the identities of these contributors. Count 8 That Russell has allegedly set himself up as the person able to write checks from his account. The Republican challenger William Russell to Congressman All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@we      ");
array_files[16]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/120707citybeat.htm","2009-03-14","11K"," City Beat 12-7-07     ","",""," City Beat 12-7-07 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT BY George Murin December 7, 2007 Washington- Things are getting interesting in city hall. Not necessarily better but interesting. First, the city got court approval for a 2 million bond to pay back debts and to allow the city to make payroll for the rest of the year. Judge Mascara did chastise the city for not living within a budget. I believe the judge would have scolded the city more if he knew about the voodoo figures in the 2007 budget. It has been told to me that this 2 million will go against the city’s debt ceiling, limiting the city’s ability to borrow more money in the future. Second, was Police Chief John Haddad announced his resignation as of January 7, 2008. This is a common occurrence when a new mayor is elected. Rumors abound who the next chief will be. Two of the favorites for the job are Capt. Roger Blyth and Lt. Clifford Warrnick. Third, is the ongoing saga of VisionQuest. It seems that the agency is operating various building in the city, including the former sixth ward school, illegally according to Linda Wade, who has been fighting VisionQuest for over a year, Mayor Westcott says he will address this issue at the next council meeting. Fourth, is that the city has yet to agree on a new heath care provider for its employees, Time is running out and the city is dragging its feet. This is making the employees a little nervous. I don’t understand why the city hasn’t brought in more than one broker to make a proposal. It seems that the city doesn’t want to save money by bringing in competition. Fifth, is that every city employee is in fear of losing their job. The city right now doesn’t seem to have a grasp on its budget. One employee from city hall told me the morale is extremely low because she doesn’t know if she will be fired. To have such great employees in fear for their jobs is a crime. Sixth, is the city and various groups working within the city, (such as Pony League Baseball and Highland Erie gr      ");
array_files[17]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/pi112003b.htm","2009-03-14","15K"," November 2003 Pettit Interview - page 2     ","",""," November 2003 Pettit Interview - page 2 All Rights Reserved Pettit Interview, November 2003, page 2... Q: Any relationship between him and bartender? Answer: I understand that they were friends. Q: So they knew each other beforethat night? Answer: Yes, they were friends Q: Do you normally go to a homicide scene? Answer: I normally go to almost every homicide scene. Anybody that questions that is not very aware of what my job is. The Coroner calls me almost without question when there is a homicide or suspicision of a homicide. I always go when the Coroner requests me to go. I was at the Gebauer scene, middle of the night, freezing cool for maybe eight hours. The media was probably not aware of that. I remember one that it is still unsolved out in gamelands in Hopewell township. COMMENTARY: Some including former District Attorney Herman Bigi have argued that this was is not a standard procedure. They have argued that it could make the D.A. a witness and hence not capable of trying the caes. Q: You were with Tim Warco? Answer: Yes, Tim Warco and I sort of a little bit of tradition. We get together and visit some of the voting places and stop someplace for breakfest and stop someplace for lunch. When he got the call, we were at the Holy Rosary Church in Muse having an early lunch, they were set to serve 12 o’clock to seven o’clock. We visited the people outside working the poll. Went over about 11:15, talked to the ladies, and they said we should sit down and then we got the call. At that time, we had no knowledge that except for the fact that two persons were dead in Prices Tavern. The Coroner did not know where Prices Tavern was, I did. I was driving. I said I need to stop there and see what was happening. COMMENTARY: It would be unlikely that Police did not inform Warco and Petitt of who was in the bar given the well known fight between Pettit and Brilla. Q: Had you ever been in that bar before? Answer: Oh, I have been there not really for social purpose, perhaps 30 or 40 years ago to buy a beer or something.       ");
array_files[18]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/030708cb.htm","2009-03-14","19K"," City Beat     ","",""," City Beat CITY BEAT By George Murin March 7, 2008 Washington- In last Sunday’s Pittsburgh Post-Gazette there was an excellent article comparing the cities of Washington and Butler. These two Pennsylvania Cities are almost identical in population, size, median household income, tax-exempt properties and are both county seats. Janice Crompton was the author and did a really nice job. There is one thing she left out; the state of each city’s pension funds. Butler has contributed what was required over the years, so the pensions have become so over-funded that some employees do not have to contribute to the fund. Washington, on the other hand is looking at putting millions of dollars in just to make it solvent. Talking to the president of Butler’s fire department’s union a few years ago, he stated that new hires only pay into their pension for five years and that was just to keep it a ‘contributory pension’ so the union could have a say in how it is run. Talking the matter over with Washington Councilman Matt Staniszewski, he stated, “Butler did the right thing.” This is why Butler has a million dollar plus surplus and Washington doesn’t. Monday morning March 3rd Washington City Council held an agenda meeting. A good portion of this meeting dealt with the abandoned houses, dilapidated structures and properties that are eye sores in the city. The city has budgeted only 100,000 for demolition in 2008. The first three slated for demolition are 735 ½ Broad Street, 126 Poplar Avenue and 443-445 Donnan Avenue. There are quite a few homes boarded up in Washington. According to one member of the audience “There are 42 structures that are boarded up in the Highland-Ridge area alone. Mayor Sonny Spossey said, “If we are to clean up the neighborhoods we have to use this maintenance to do it.” Five fifty-five Glenn Street was another property discussed at the meeting. Michael Healy runs a very successful auto repair business at the address; but the city has received more than one complaint about the condition of the property.      ");
array_files[19]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041808harper.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," CSIs Hill Harper Comes Out for Obama     ","",""," CSIs Hill Harper Comes Out for Obama CSI’s Hill Harper Comes Out for Obama Alisha M. Kendall The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 The Barack Obama Headquarters is kicking it into high gear as the date of the Pennsylvania Primary draws nearer. CSI: NY’s Hill Harper visited the Washington County Headquarters Wednesday at 12:30pm to speak about why Barack should be president, and why he is volunteering in Pennsylvania for that cause. Harper and Obama went to college together and they have been friends for a long time. Harper wanted to speak about the real person Obama is, how he genuinely cares about people and has an uncanny ability to bring people together. Harper told a story about the writing of his book, Letters to a Brother. The book is geared towards young black men who have been pushed down repeatedly, as an attempt to inspire them. Harper wanted Obama to help, to have some influence in his book, but he procrastinated until the last minute to do anything about it. His book due the next day, he finally called Obama for his assistance. Unfortunately, Obama was in India on business at the time, and offered to help in a week when he returned to the United States. Harper told him it was urgent, and Obama offered to help in three days time. Harper told him it was due the next morning, and Obama stayed up all night writing a letter to young people for him. Harper concluded the story with how great of a friend Obama is. Harper mainly spoke to the volunteers, attempting to inspire them. He wanted to get the point across that we can make a difference. Joyce Crumrine, a volunteer at the Washington Headquarters, says “I’m not a typical Obama supporter [and] I’ve never done this [but] you gotta step up and do your part…that’s why I’m here.” Obama’s campaign is about grassroots and it’s about people making small contributions. There are people who have never been involved in politics that are beginning to get involved, and willing to give their time in order to make a difference. The Washington Barack Obama Headquarters       ");
array_files[20]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041808meadows.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," Meadows Racing Network to Die Slow Death     ","",""," Meadows Racing Network to Die Slow Death MEADOWS RACING NETWORK TO DIE SLOW DEATH By Ken Bonnell The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 Meadows Racing fans will not be able to see much local racing except on Mondays and Tuesdays due to thepurchase of HRTV network by Churchill Downs Racing. Churchill Downs will be emphasizing thoroughbred racing instead of harness racing. Magna Racing sold over 50% interest to Churchill Downs Racing. Comcast only supplies the airtime and they don’t have control over what is on HRTV. This move appears to be part of the gradual demise of harness racing in the wake of the Casino being built. Combined with the Adios being held elsewhere, harness racing is in decline. John Marshall, the Meadows General Manager did not return a call for comment. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News Sports Articles Sports Beat, 4/11/08 Sports Beat, 4/18/08 Featured Columns Richs Random Thoughts 4/4/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/28/08 Entertainment Alex Skolnick Trio Obama’s Continental Divide Opinion No Excuses Political Secrets, 3/28/08 Roger McGuinn Why Hillary Needs the MTV Generation City Beat, 4/11/08 We Need Your Help for Write-Ins Richs Random Thoughts 4/11/08 Is Hillary’s obstacle her sex? Frida Kahlo exhibit Is Obama the Next George Bush PA Clinton Supporters Tear into Obama Over West Coast Remarks Naumoff Resigns from Peters Council Meadows Racing Network CSI’s Hill Harper Comes Out for Obama Trinity School District Paying 13,731 for water bill in one building. Why are Washington County Democrats being left out in the cold? Irey-Toprani call for Jail Investigation Strawberry Alley Aftermath City Beat, 4/18/08 The Battle Between Light and Darkness Three democrats to look for on the ballot One Nation Under Bitter Pennsylvania? Richs Random Thoughts 4/18/08     ");
array_files[21]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041408clinton.htm","2009-03-14","22K"," PA CLINTON SUPPORTERS TEAR INTO OBAMA OVER WEST COAST REMARKS     ","",""," PA CLINTON SUPPORTERS TEAR INTO OBAMA OVER WEST COAST REMARKS PA CLINTON SUPPORTERS TEAR INTO OBAMA OVER WEST COAST REMARKS By Peter Glasser The Weekly Recorder April 14, 2008 Senator Hillary Clinton’s campaign held another Saturday press conference on April 12th. Unlike the previous weekend conference, this one was not dominated by campaign staff and officials from outside the state. Except for former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack, all the speakers were current mayors of Pennsylvania municipalities- Mayors Dougherty of Scranton, Lucas of Sharon, Callahan of Bethlehem, Leyton of Wilkes Barre and Reid of Harrisburg. The topic was Barack Obama’s comments at a fund raiser in San Francisco that many Pennsylvania voters are bitter about economic matters, and, as a result of this bitterness, cling to religion, guns, and anti immigration views. One after another, the Pennsylvania mayors at the press conference labeled Obama’s comments “hurtful, divisive and condescending” and “showed a lack of judgment and understanding of the people of Pennsylvania who live in smaller cities, towns and rural areas”. Several commented that words such as these will “make great ammunition” for use by the Republican Party if Senator Obama obtains the Democratic Party’s nomination for President. But beyond the mayors’ statements themselves, which was to be expected given that it was a Clinton news conference containing Clinton supporters, there was a tone of anger in many of the comments. Mayor Reid of Harrisburg seemed to sum up what many in the group were feeling. He said, “What is most telling is that Senator Obama’s comments were made thousands of miles away from us, in a very upscale environment, when he didn’t think any of us ordinary Pennsylvanians were listening.” All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News City Beat, 3/21/08 Pettit Moves Back Home Sports Articles Sports Beat, 4/11/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory Sports Beat, 4/4/08 Wraslin Round Up Featured Columns Richs Random Thoughts 4/4/08 R      ");
array_files[22]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041108cb.htm","2009-03-14","25K"," City Beat     ","",""," City Beat CITY BEAT By George Murin The Weekly Recorder April 11, 2008 Washington- Some residents of this city have been complaining that council meetings are boring since the new administration took office in January. All of city council working to solve the city’s problems and only Councilman Matt Staniszewski causing any waves by not voting for the tax increase. All that changed on April 3rd. It wasn’t the personal attacks that used to highlight the meetings last year, but it was unexpected and left Mayor Sonny Spossey and Councilwoman Virginia Ullom wondering what happened. The first 44 items on the meeting’s agenda all passed unanimously. Council approved past minutes of meetings; paid a few bills, appropriated 25,000 to Citizen’s Library (down 33% from last year); donated 3,000 towards the 2008 4th of July fireworks; authorize the city clerk to take bids for a storm sewer project at the intersection of Jefferson and Wylie Avenues; authorize the city’s solicitor to prepare a petition to annex the property adjacent to Washington Park; and hire 2 police officers and a part time floater/parking meter officer. But then agenda item 45 arrived and council took an executive secession to discuss a possible lawsuit. When council returned Mayor Spossey made a motion to enter into a settlement agreement that was discussed in the executive secession and it was seconded by Ullom. During the ‘comments on the motion’ phase Councilman Staniszewski asked “Has Ms. Galluze sued the city?” Receiving no answer, he repeated the question twice more. Then Lane Turturice, the city’s solicitor, said “It is the advice of the city’s solicitor not to discuss matters of litigation in public.” Staniszewski the rephrased his question and asked,”Has Ms. Galluze threatened to sue the city?” No one seemed to want to answer. He then went on to complain that he asked for a written opinion on this matter and received none, stating that “If someone has a legal opinion, I’d like to see it!” Most people in the audience had no idea what was going      ");
array_files[23]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041808cb.htm","2009-03-14","24K"," City Beat     ","",""," City Beat CITY BEAT By George Murin The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 Washington- Washington City Council had a special meeting on April 14th. The limited agenda for this meeting included; buying some equipment for the fire department, approving payment to Washington School District for the ‘Strengthening Families Program’; contracting for street sweeping; entering into an agreement with MCTL Services for delinquency notices to property owners on behalf of the city; personnel hearing on two employees; and to start on the engineering of fixing the collapsed storm drain at Wylie and Jefferson Avenues. Councilwoman Virginia Ullom was not at the meeting; reportedly she is on vacation somewhere in Europe, along the Danube. But what wasn’t on the agenda proved most interesting. During the public participation part of the meeting at least six landlords lined up to speak out against ‘Bill #8 of 2008’ in which the city would enact a licensing fee and inspection of all rental units. After the first speaker, Mayor Sonny Spossey stated that he would like a motion “to delay action on the bill until we do have a meeting with the landlords at some point in time in the future.” Councilman Matt Staniszewski made the motion and Councilman Terry Faust seconded it and it passed 4-0. The rest of the landlords decided not to use their time since the bill isn’t going to become an ordinance until after they have a chance to meet with council. The landlords, of this city, already held one meeting that was well attended (over 75 people) and seemed to be united in their opposition to this bill as written and hope to force council to revise this bill. This is the kind of reaction I expected with the tax increase that was passed earlier this year but, it didn’t happen. The sale of Strawberry Alley to W&J College is the other point of interest. Items 4 & 5 on the agenda were to approve payment to York Realty for the work they did on the proposed sale. Spossey made the motion to pay them, but it died for a lack of a second. At the end of t      ");
array_files[24]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041808aftermath.htm","2009-03-14","30K"," Strawberry Alley Aftermath     ","",""," Strawberry Alley Aftermath STRAWBERRY ALLEY AFTERMATH What Happened Since and Who Didn’t Remain Firm in Negotiations and Why??? By Allyson White The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 [Washington, PA] – During a recent meeting, City Councilman Matt Staniszewski quoted Shakespeare’s Hamlet when he said “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” According to the third edition of the New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, the statement is “used to describe corruption or a situation in which something is wrong.” One has to ask how often it might appear to represent actual situations. This is a series of “reporter-based essays” investigating local topics for you to decide. An attempt to sell a portion of Strawberry Alley, a city-owned asset, to W&J College was stopped in its tracks during last Thursday’s City Council meeting. Standing up and voting against the attempt were Councilmen Blackhurst, Faust and Staniszewski while Mayor Spossey and Councilwoman Ullom supported the sale. What led up to the 3 – 2 decision and what happened since? Originally, W&J had approached City Officials about purchasing Strawberry Alley because the roadway was near the new proposed Science Center the College intends to build. Washington Officials considered the measure if W&J would accept all three conditions to the sale which included 102,500 for the alley and fees, bill each student a 50 municipal services fee per semester which would then be paid to the City, and the College agreed to form a group of non-profits for capital campaigns and to raise funds for City projects. Later, the College refused to accept the municipal services fee; however, did agree to the 102,500 and “provide leadership for a consortium of non-profits to investigate ways to assist municipal government.” About 35% of properties within the City are tax-exempt and W&J owns an astounding nearly one-forth of them. Tuition at W&J College is 37,000 per year and current enrollment is nearly 1,500 students. Staniszewski questioned how much 37,100 per year versus 37,000 wo      ");
array_files[25]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041808democrats.htm","2009-03-14","20K"," Why are Washington County Democrats being left out in the cold?     ","",""," Why are Washington County Democrats being left out in the cold? GTX19055 4 GTX19065 5 GTX19065 8 GTX19070 1 News Sports Articles Sports Beat, 4/11/08 Sports Beat, 4/18/08 Featured Columns Richs Random Thoughts 4/4/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/28/08 Entertainment Alex Skolnick Trio Obama’s Continental Divide Opinion No Excuses Political Secrets, 3/28/08 Roger McGuinn Why Hillary Needs the MTV Generation City Beat, 4/11/08 We Need Your Help for Write-Ins Richs Random Thoughts 4/11/08 Is Hillary’s obstacle her sex? Frida Kahlo exhibit Is Obama the Next George Bush PA Clinton Supporters Tear into Obama Over West Coast Remarks Naumoff Resigns from Peters Council Meadows Racing Network CSI’s Hill Harper Comes Out for Obama Trinity School District Paying 13,731 for water bill in one building. Why are Washington County Democrats being left out in the cold? Irey-Toprani call for Jail Investigation Strawberry Alley Aftermath City Beat, 4/18/08 The Battle Between Light and Darkness Three democrats to look for on the ballot One Nation Under Bitter Pennsylvania? Richs Random Thoughts 4/18/08     ");
array_files[26]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041808trinitywater.htm","2009-03-14","23K"," Trinity School District Paying 13,731 for water bill in one building.     ","",""," Trinity School District Paying 13,731 for water bill in one building. Trinity School District Paying 13,731 for water bill in one building. By Ken Bonnell The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 Back in 1993 when the Trinity School District was building Trinity South, there was no water or sewage near the site. Due to legal restrictions on the school district, Trinity paid for all the design costs of the line at no charge to Amwell Township’s water authority. In addition, Trinity School District loaned the Authority 550,000 in a no interest loan to be paid in equal installments over a fifty year period. The agreement was signed on March 17, 1994 between the Amwell Water Authority and Trinity School District. The authority was permitted to set fees intended to permit it to pay for it’s operating expenses and to repay Trinity for the interest free loan. The Weekly Recorder has learned that the January, February and March bill for water at Trinity South is 13,731. That is an average of over 4,500 a month. We have also learned that the bills for the other schools in the district are as follows: Trinity East 400, Trinity West 600, Trinity North 700, Trinity Middle School 1,300 and Trinity High School 1,300 (that was rounded off for ease of comparison). Trinity South’s bill was larger per month than for all the other buildings combined! In addition, The Weekly Recorder has learned that there is 8,679 bill included in the 8,679 bill and the water rate is .60 per hundred billed to the Authority by PA American Water. In the agreement that was signed in 1994, the Amwell Supervisors have the authority to appoint members of the Authority and at least two members of the Authority shall be persons nominated by the Trinity School Board. That is not being done at this time. No member of the Water Authority was appointed by Trinity School Board. The Weekly Recorder has also learned that there were meters being read in a pit and that it was full of water. The result was that the meter reader was unable to get to the meter. This prob      ");
array_files[27]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031408clinton.htm","2009-03-14","24K"," Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary     ","",""," Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 After being harshly criticized in the media for being too aggressive against Barack Obama. After scandal and infidelity in the White House. Could former President Bill Clinton help his wife, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, in a must win pivotal delegate state? There are some things in life that you will never forget, both good and bad. I will never forget that the first time I was able to vote in a presidential election, I voted for Bill Clinton. At Washington and Jefferson College on Tuesday March 11, a young college student, who will be voting in her first presidential election, may never forget that after attending a rally for Senator Hillary Clinton she was denied an autograph by her husband, or at least by those attending to him. In a race that is so close with so many young people supporting Obama’s campaign, was that such a wise move by whoever made the decision? The student had made a banner for the event, and like many others in attendance, was trying to get her memories, or piece of history signed by former President Clinton. When told that they were not collecting anymore articles to sign the student took one last chance. She borrowed a pen and wrote on the back of her poster, “One signature for one vote” and slid it under the curtain. It was her last and only shot. You could hear the sign being picked up, so hope was still in the air. The student was elated that she might get the Presidents autograph, that persistency and a little courage may have paid off. But as the items that had been taken back to be signed were being handed out, hers was nowhere to be found. As the students that helped with the event, and got to meet Clinton personally, walked back out, one of the boys handed the now folded up poster back to the girl and told her that someone helping out decided that they didn’t think the note was funny. But was it her decision to potentially lose Hillary t      ");
array_files[28]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031408wj.htm","2009-03-14","22K"," Former President Visits Washington & Jefferson College     ","",""," Former President Visits Washington & Jefferson College FORMER PRESIDENT VISITS WASHINGTON & JEFFERSON COLLEGE by Alisha M. Kendall The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 On Tuesday afternoon, roughly 2,000 people piled into W & J’s Henry memorial Gym and held their breath in anticipation. A few minutes after one’ o’clock, introduced by the head of the Young Democrats, Kristin Schuh, former President Bill Clinton walked onto the stage. After a long applause, he began to promote Hillary’s campaign, using a technique that answered important problems in today’s society. He started with how Hillary told him she would know, if after four years in the presidency, she did a good job in keeping the faith in the American people. He said her response was that if she could say yes to three things, she would know she did a good job: 1. The people are better off when I quit then they were when I started. 2. Young people have a better future to look forward to after I am done than before I started, and 3.Our country and the world are coming together and not apart. Right after this, he mentioned the ever popular “American Dream,” which is what allows people in lower and poverty class levels obtain middle class status. Mr. Clinton then went on to speak about the economic benefits in the United States, and stated that about 90% of the benefits in the last decade have gone to the top ten percent of the earners in the U.S.-“You cannot run this country for the better of the top ten percent of the population.” He then discussed several of Hillary’s plans she has for if she wins the presidency. He started with energy, one of the major crises in the United States at this time. Hillary’s plan is to make a cleaner, better energy program, that will allow every state in the country to become energy independent. He then moved on to another major crisis: health care. He asked everyone in the room to raise their hand if they knew someone without health care. Nearly everyone in the Gymnasium did so. The United States is the only country (with th      ");
array_files[29]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031408cb.htm","2009-03-14","19K"," City Beat     ","",""," City Beat CITY BEAT By George Murin The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 BY George Murin Washington- City tax notices are now in the hands of the landowners of Washington. The few I’ve talked to are shocked as to the amount of increase. They did not realize that a hike of 30 mils on the full assessed value of their land was to raise that tax nearly 60%. (The old rate was 240 mils and the new rate is 82 mils. This means that 240 mils under the old assessment are equal only to 52 new mils and a raise of 30 mils under the new, is equal to a raise of 138 mils under the old rate.) The city is to explain this change in assessment value at a meeting on the 13 of March; I’ll cover this meeting next week. The regular monthly council meeting held on March 6th lasted 25 minutes. The highlights of this meeting were as follows: Council took action to allow the demolition of the buildings at 735 ½ Broad Street, 126 Poplar Avenue and 443-445 Donnan Avenue, Approved the purchase of 25 pagers and new boots for the fire department, Approved payment for the city solicitor in the amount of 4,179.75 for February, Approve payment for much needed road salt and enter into a contract for the winter of 2008-2009 with Costars, Approve the purchase of 10 new wireless fire alarm boxes to be re-sold to businesses throughout the area. Council agreed that this has been a huge success and in the first year of operation 1/3 of the start up cost has been recouped. It should be paid off in three years, become a money maker for the city and provide a superior alarm system for local businesses. Appoint Michael Behrens as interim Emergency Liaison with the county, Held the first reading of Bill Number 8 of 2008, providing for the inspection and licensing of all rental units in the city. Mayor Spossey stated that the city has over 2,400 of these units in the city. The mayor also reminded everyone of the fast approaching bi-centennial celebration of the city. “We are going to hold a press conference soon…asking for all those individuals who are interes      ");
array_files[30]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031408rizor.htm","2009-03-14","18K"," Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County     ","",""," Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County By Alisha M. Kendall The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 Jessica Rizor, 31, from 127 Lawrence Ave., in Washington, was charged Tuesday night with murder in the first-degree of her newborn that she gave birth to in the bathroom of her home, on November 26, 2004. She was also found guilty of concealing the death of a child and abuse of a corpse. Her murder in the first-degree conviction will earn her a life behind bars, with no possibility of parole. Rizor gave birth to a baby girl early in the morning on November 26, 2004, in the bathroom of her home. She then suffocated the full-term child in a plastic bag and put it in her kitchen garbage can. After cleaning up her bathroom, she woke her husband up and asked him to take the trash out, because of the leftovers from Thanksgiving. It was then that he found the child. The trial was held in front of Judge DiSalle in Washington County’s Court of Common Pleas. A jury of twelve, three men and nine women, were selected last Monday, and her trial began last Tuesday. The trial continued all last week and into the beginning of this week. After ten hours of discussing the case, the jurors found her guilty of murder in the first-degree, as opposed to the lesser charge she also faced of third-degree murder, deciding that her actions were pre-meditated and planned out. Rizor was emotionless as she heard the verdict. Her attorney, Robert Brady, plans to appeal. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com More News Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor Who is Joining the Sinking Ship? City Beat, 3/7/08 Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County City Beat, 3/14/08 Former President Visits W & J Editorials Politicians and Sex Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio Sports Articles Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again “Hairspray” set to play at Heinz Hall April/May is Apparent Deadline for Pettit Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary Darius      ");
array_files[31]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031408pettit.htm","2009-03-14","18K"," April/May is Apparent Deadline for Pettit     ","",""," April/May is Apparent Deadline for Pettit APRIL/MAY IS APPARENT DEADLINE FOR PETTIT The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 Washington- Sources are stating that the expected deadline for the indictment of John Pettit is April or early May. For months the saga of former District Attorney John Pettit has dominated local headlines and Pittsburgh talk radio shows like Marty Griffin. But now it appears that the end is near. The Federal Grand Jury in Pittsburgh has been meeting every three or four weeks to review evidence regarding the case against Pettit. The witness have included local petty criminals like Tiffany Ryan, jail guards both past and current, and even the secretary of the office, Becky Bednarski. But the question that many have asked is when will the case end? Sources have stated since the beginning that April was the month But the fact that some high profile witnesses like Michael Tarbuck have yet to testify, it appears that the Federal case has even more to tell. This has lead some to believe that the case could take until the early part of May. Other sources believe that soon after any possible indictment, Pettit will quikly plea and offer to deal any information that he has on other local officials. First, though the federal government will have to secure an indictment against Washington County’s longest serving District Attorney. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com More News Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor Who is Joining the Sinking Ship? City Beat, 3/7/08 April/May is Apparent Deadline for Pettit Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County City Beat, 3/14/08 Former President Visits W & J Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary Editorials Politicians and Sex Richs Random Thoughts February 29, 2008 February 15, 2008 February 8, 2008 March 7, 2008 Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio Sports Articles Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Sports Beat, 3/7/08 Sports Beat, 3/14/08 “Hairspray” set to play at      ");
array_files[32]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/030708southstrabane.htm","2009-03-14","20K"," Who Is Joining the Sinking Ship?     ","",""," Who Is Joining the Sinking Ship? Who is Joining the Sinking Ship? By Judi Panasik March 7, 2008 Recently South Strabane Supervisor Tony Zelenka announced he was resigning from his position. Zelenka’s position is up for election in 2009. He has served on the board for over 11 years as a supervisor. The question is who will take his place? With Lou DePretis and now Zelenka gone from the board Supervisor Bob Hollick could be left to bully alone. And will DePretis throw his hat in the ring again after losing all of his runs for office and after the infamous controversy where Zelenka, Hollick and Chuck Kosey put DePretis in Billy Bell’s supervisor position over the clearly more qualified Don Trautman? As a side note one resident remarked after hearing that Zelenka was leaving the area that it was ironic that he and Kosey, two of the biggest supporters of the TIF (Tax increment financing) in South Strabane are or will no longer be residents of this township. This after Zelenka declared that the TIF was going to bring much needed jobs and that’s one of the reasons he voted for it. What, retail wasn’t good enough for you to support a family on? And with all of the development in South Strabane Kosey moved to a neighboring township immediately after assuring DePretis be given Bell’s position. What or who is up their sleeve next? Rumor has it that Tom Flickinger has been sniffing around for the position. A position that has yet to be advertised for and was announced a little over a week ago. Flickinger is an ex-Trinity School Board Member and a supporter of the TIF and LERTA. Both tax breaks are in support of big (mainly retail) business. . According to the rumors Flickinger has already started contacting supervisors and trying to have discussions with people whose support he is looking for that hold influence in the township one way or another. But is this someone residents would want? They have shown through the voting process they are looking for people who aren’t going to give tax money away. I would like to know af      ");
array_files[33]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/030708rizor.htm","2009-03-14","17K"," Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor     ","",""," Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor By Alisha M. Kendall March 7, 2008 The case of Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor, in which she is accused of putting her infant baby in plastic and then in the trash can, was continued Wednesday in the Washington County Courthouse in front of Judge DiSalle. Jury selection was completed Monday, with twelve jurors and two alternate jurors being selected. The case started Tuesday with the opening arguments from both sides. The prosecution is headed by Craig McKay, Washington County’s First Assistant District Attorney, with assistance by attorney Mike Lucas, a local Washington and Jefferson College graduate. The defense for Ms. Rizor is lead by attorney Robert Brady. Wednesday, several people were questioned, including an E.M.T. ambulance worker, and two police officers that were at the scene. The closing witnesses for Wednesday were the Washington County Coroner, and Washington County Deputy Coroner, Timothy Warco II. Warco received a call from the Coroner to remove fetal remains from the residence of 127 Lawrence Avenue in Washington. When he arrived at the scene, Deputy Coroner Warco recalls finding a plastic, Wal-Mart bag in the trashcan in the kitchen. After careful photographing of the evidence by the police, Warco remembers, “Upon opening the bag I discovered a full-term child.” The defense then cross-questioned Deputy Coroner Warco, after refusing the chance to question the Coroner, on the stipulation that he may be called back in for questioning if anything new comes up. The defense rapidly fired questions at Mr. Warco, leading for several objections from the prosecution. After finishing question Warco, the prosecution had no witnesses left for the day. Due to the late hour, the court was recessed until 9:30am Thursday morning, when the case will be continued in front of Judge DiSalle. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com George Vitteck on the Assault Your Tax Dollars at Work Sports Articles The Psychology of the Pitt      ");
array_files[34]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/022908cb.htm","2009-03-14","19K"," City Beat 2-29-08     ","",""," City Beat 2-29-08 CITY BEAT By George Murin February 29, 2008 Washington- There was a special city council meeting at 6 P.M. on February 20th; But before the meeting I witnessed a very surprising thing, Mayor Sonny Spossey and Councilman Matt Staniszewski sitting next to each other in the Mayor’s office, working together. They were very cordial to each other and joked to me as I entered the room. These two politicians are usually at each others throats and it was good to see them putting aside their differences for the betterment of the city. The council meeting itself lasted only 10 minutes. There were only 10 items on the agenda and no one spoke during the public participation at the start of the meeting. The items that council discussed were all passed 5-0, except the final reading of bill #7, which establishes a new assessment law for the city and adopts a pre-determined ratio for this assessment. Staniszewski voted against it saying “I don’t support giving this much power to government to raise taxes in the future almost as much as they want to…by changing the math formula, called the pre-determined ratio…Who’s going to stand up for the taxpayers?” The bill passed 4-1. The other items that were passed consisted of paying for the mailing of delinquent tax notices; adopting a resolution to support PA Senate bill 777, which gives the city a choice on how they deal with tax liens; establishing a policy on pre-employment medical exams; increasing street lighting throughout the city; allowing for the solid waste fees to be collected in two payments; advancing four newly hired firefighters money to attend the fire academy in Harrisburg, rescinding a separate “special capital fund” account for the street department; and transferring money from one line item to another to cover minor equipment purchases. During the elected officials comments Staniszewski reported on the fixing of potholes with “cold patch” throughout the city. He also warned council that the street department was running low on salt. (It was repor      ");
array_files[35]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/021508cb.htm","2009-03-14","14K"," Citty Beat 2-15-08     ","",""," Citty Beat 2-15-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT By George Murin February 15, 2008 Washington- February 7th’s city council meeting was a model of efficiency. Over seventy items were on the agenda and the meeting took only 50 minutes. In times past this meeting might have taken over three hours. There was no bickering, name calling, fighting or endless lines of citizens complaining about city council. Business was conducted and discussed in a concise timely manner. What a refreshing change this administration has accomplished. The atmosphere at city hall has improved also; with many of the employees actually enjoying coming to work. “Smooth and efficient”, one employee said to me. The meeting started with motions to approve minutes of past council meetings. The meetings from December 6th and 13th seemed to fail to gain approval with Mayor Spossey, and Councilmen Blackhurst and Faust abstaining; and Councilwoman Ullom and Councilman Staniszewski voting to approve them. How this would affect the business passed at these meetings is unknown to me? Then came the public participation part of the meeting; Police Chief Roger Blyth was the only speaker. He spoke on a 26,000 donation from MSA, a supplier of safety equipment. The company donated equipment to the police C.E.R.T. team in exchange for using city police officers and equipment in their latest catalog. It was told to me that Chief Blyth is an excellent administrator and master of getting things for his department. I believe he will turn out to be a superb Chief. Since his appointment many of his officers have told me that the moral in the department is being restored. After this, council took a brief executive session to discuss the VisionQuest appeal; this was actually brief, lasting only 3 minutes. When council returned they suspended the appeal against the opening of the facility for troubled teenage girls with a 5-0 vote. The facility was allowed to open by court ruling because the city failed to notify the owne      ");
array_files[36]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011808cb.htm","2009-03-14","14K"," City Beat 1-18-08     ","",""," City Beat 1-18-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT By George Murin January 18, 2008 Washington- A meeting was held at City Hall on January 14th to discuss the drug and crime problems in Washington. The “Safe and Secure Neighborhoods” meeting drew a decent crowd of about 35 residents from Washington and the surrounding communities and many of the local politicians, law enforcement and representatives from the NAACP. City Mayor Sonny Spossey, all the members of city council, County Commissioner Larry Maggi, D.A. Steve Toprani, City Police Chief Roger Blyth, City Police Captain Robert Wilson, State Police LT. Rick Sethman, NAACP president Dean Ellis, Charleroi Mayor Frank Paterra, Charleroi’s Guardian Angel Coordinator Bob Arthurs, representatives from the county’s drug task force and the county’s redevelopment authority. They outlined a plan of attack how to combat drugs, prostitution and crime and restore the city back to what it once was; a peaceful community. The law enforcement personnel present outlined a plan of attack; increased saturation patrols, drug sweeps, stings, seizure of property and controlled drug buys. Toprani stressed that the citizens must help by reporting any drug activity to the county’s hot line number, 1-800-281-0700, “We need to know Who, What, When and Where. All information will be kept confidential and names need not be given. Chief Blyth stated that “This is going to have teeth … we are going to get our streets back.” During the question and answer part of the meeting, some in the audience had questions about innocent people getting caught up in these measures, NAACP president Ellis said,” we will sort these out later… we have an opportunity (now) to work together…to make an impact.” The meeting seemed somewhat optimistic, but will it produce results? It is a first step. I hope if other meetings are held more residents will attend. As the 18th century British Statesman Edmund Burke reportedly once said, “The only thing necessary for evil to      ");
array_files[37]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/020108cb.htm","2009-03-14","15K"," City Beat 2-1-08     ","",""," City Beat 2-1-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT By George Murin February 1, 2008 Washington- On January 25th council held a meeting which should have started at 6:30 p.m. but someone changed the clock in council chambers so that it was 8 minutes fast, so the meeting actually started early and those arriving late missed the first part of the meeting. (I was one of these late arrivals, entering the building exactly at 6:30.) I hope someone sets the clock right before the next meeting. The meeting was fairly short lasting only about 40 minutes. There were only a few items on the agenda. The first was the re-hiring of Michael Behrens as I predicted last week and the vote on this was 5-0. The other items were the first readings of the proposed tax increase and amending the salary ordinance and the budget. But there were some interesting elements to this meeting. The first of these was that the new members of council, Terry Faust and Thomas Blackhurst are falling into line behind Mayor Spossey and have yet to vote against anything proposed by council. Many voters I’ve talked with expected more from them and were hoping for more independent voices on council. (This may be a little unfair as they have only been in office about four weeks.) When it came for each of the councilmen to speak, these two had nothing to say. Councilman Matt Staniszewski spoke against the tax increase stating he “will not vote for it.” And that all council wants to do is “raise taxes and cut services…Taxpayers cannot bare this additional weight on their shoulders…They (some members of council) rather focus on personal and political attacks on an individual rather than facing the city’s problems.” Councilwoman Virginia Ullom declared her support for the tax increase and stated that “the city is in trouble...our taxes are going up too.” The Mayor spoke for nearly 15 minutes outlining the city’s problems and how he and council are addressing the situation. He ended with, (talking about the tax increase      ");
array_files[38]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/012508cb.htm","2009-03-14","14K"," City Beat 1-25-08     ","",""," City Beat 1-25-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT By George Murin January 25, 2008 Washington- Ben Franklin once said, “In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.” This week I found that statement to be all too true. City residents face a major tax increase on property and the city fire department is dealing with the death of retired fireman Harry “Paul” Maust. Maust is the third retired fireman to die in the last month; Louis West and Wade “Squeak” McDowell past away a few days before Christmas. All three were fine men and will be greatly missed. A tax increase is not a surprise, as many citizens of Washington knew that since the city is on the verge of bankruptcy something had to be done. But this tax increase of 30 mils on land is extremely large, nearly 15% of the current budget. In the last 10 years the city raised taxes twice, according to Councilwoman Virginia Ullom, and they were for 3 mils each and the city government should have raised taxes before this to keep up with expenses. She stated, “Everything cost more…it’s scary to think where we’re heading.” Mayor Sonny Spossey made the statement that “difficult decisions are going have to be made”, but many residents of the city told me that council took the easy way out. Many of these same residents are angry. I am writing this on January 23rd for the 25th’s paper. On Thursday evening, the 24th there will have been a council meeting to announce the first reading on the tax increase. I will report on this meeting next week. It will be interesting to see if any citizens show up to complain. Small businesses in the city will suffer most from this. One restaurant owner said he is thinking of selling but “who would buy my business?” Another complains that his taxes on his parking lot are more expensive than the taxes on his building. What is disturbing about this tax increase is that the money is not going to be spent to restore the city’s vital departments to full staffing but will be used just to make u      ");
array_files[39]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011108cb.htm","2009-03-14","13K"," CITY BEAT 1-11-08     ","",""," CITY BEAT 1-11-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT By George Murin January 11, 2008 Washington- The mood at city hall has sure changed. During the first council meeting of the year on January 7th things seemed very optimistic. No one came forward to complain during the public participation, bickering was kept to a minimum, no executive secessions were held and the meeting was over in 40 minutes. The 40 minute meeting would have been less than a half hour but each of the newly elected officials was sworn in by Justice J. Albert Spence. This is such a different experience, usually a meeting in the past year would take nearly two hours and the fighting and bickering would make one nauseous. This time only a brief exchange between Mayor Sonny Spossey and Councilman Matt Staniszewski over spending money on a new carpet for the reception area and offices, lasted only a minute or two. Staniszewski made some good points but Sonny’s response was a great retort and put the young councilman in his place. “However there are a lot of ways to waste money,” Spossey stated, “Accepting paychecks from the city while not showing up for meetings and work secessions, allowing checks that require your signature …to go unsigned, billing the city for personal items…Attempting to have a city account pay for a private party…I could go on but there is no point.” Sonny is a master when it comes to running a meeting. Of the 30 some motions made during the meeting all passed 5-0 except four; the carpet, opening the budget, making the Vineyard Church tax exempt and paying the computer service bill for Lynn Galluze. Staniszewski voted no on all four. This reorganization meeting held no surprises for those who read last week’s column. I was 5 for 5; Councilwoman Virginia Ullom became the Director of Accounts and Finance; Councilman Matt Staniszewski became the Director of the Department of Streets; Councilman Terry Faust became the Director of the Parks and Public Buildings; Councilman Tom Blackhurst       ");
array_files[40]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/020808cb.htm","2009-03-14","14K"," City Beat 2-8-08     ","",""," City Beat 2-8-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT By George Murin February 8, 2008 Washington- Friday February 1st came and went and Matt Staniszewski is still a city councilman. He was at the agenda meeting Monday and will probably attend February 7th’s regular council meeting. (I will report on this next week.) Mayor Sonny Spossey found out what we all knew that there is no way to remove him from council because of his D.U.I.s; although the mayor is still putting the pressure on. One of the items on the proposed agenda was for random drug tests for elected officials. Drug testing for the union protected employees will be addressed when their contracts expire. Other items of interest on the proposed agenda were as follows: Isiminger’s seems to have regained the towing contract for the city. City solicitor Lane Turturice was asked to draw up a new contract for council to review. The minutes of the December council meetings may not be approved because Mayor Spossey and Councilman Terry Faust have problems with the vote to hire Sam Stockton as grant writer and parking director for the city; and the separation agreement for the ex-city solicitor Jeff Watson. Accept addendums to the police and firemen’s contracts to address and standardize the health care coverage for the city. Accept the retirement of Police Officer Dallas Williams as of January 21st. Appoint Jonathan Inman to full time Meter Enforcement Officer. (This item was scratched from the agenda since both meter readers quit this week. This leaves the police force to write parking tickets until the meter readers are replaced.) Long discussions took place on the city’s computers service contracts; paying the bills for road materials for the street department; will the street department pick up trash from receptacles placed in the city by the Highland-Erie group; If the city will give approval to a Guarding Angel chapter for Washington; Hiring new Policemen, and a firefighter; bonding of city officials; and re-align      ");
array_files[41]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/121407citybeat.htm","2009-03-14","12K"," City Beat 12-14-07     ","",""," City Beat 12-14-07 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT BY George Murin December 14, 2007 Washington- The last city council meeting held on December 6th was highlighted by council members asking once again for Councilman Matt Staniszewski resignation. Staniszewski has three DUI arrests, and if convicted will probably face some jail time. Even Mayor Ken Westcott, an ally of Staniszewski, has asked that Matt seek help and give up his council seat. Staniszewski seems to be the stubborn type and it is very doubtful he will resign. It will be interesting, if convicted, to see if he will get work release from jail to attend city meetings. The money from slot machines at the Meadow’s will start to roll in soon and the city is summiting a number of projects to be funded. Eight were brought up and passed at this meeting. Among them were phase III of the downtown project, an amphitheater behind the new parking garage, a façade project for the George Washington Hotel, an upgrade to Lew Hays Field for Pony League Baseball and a proposal for the property on Highland Ave. where the Elk’s Lodge is located. More projects are expected to be included before the deadline on December 31st. VisionQuest was another topic that was discussed at the meeting. City council denied VisionQuest a permit to operate at the old six ward school but did not notify them in the allotted time so VisionQuest went on with their plans and open the school for troubled teenagers. Residents of the neighborhood, Dean Ellis of the NAACP and Robert Griffin of the Highland-Ridge CDC, asked council to appeal a judge’s ruling that allowed VisionQuest to proceed because of this error in notification. A private citizen, Linda Wade, is fighting VisionQuest without any help from city hall using her own money for the betterment of her neighborhood. It seems that council is working with the residents but VisionQuest is still operating. It makes you wonder whose side city council is really on. Part the Isiminger’s saga seems to       ");
array_files[42]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/053008yuvan.htm","2009-03-14","19K"," Yuvan Opposes Turnpike Deal     ","",""," Yuvan Opposes Turnpike Deal YUVAN OPPOSES TURNPIKE DEAL The Weekly Recorder May 30, 2008 Republican candidate for the 46th Legislative District Frank Yuvan announced his opposition to the lease of the Pennsylvania Turnpike to foreign interest. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not for sale. For nearly a century, the taxpayers of Pennsylvania have paid for this road, now Governor Ed Rendell and the Democratic Party want to lease it for a whopping 75 years to foreign interests. In typical fashion, Governor Rendell has presented the sale as an either or situation, if we dont accept his plan, he will force tolls on I-80. If we do, no tolls. There is another option. Maintain the turnpike, cut the waste inherent in this state and with the savings there will be no need for tolls on I-80. Yuvan continued In addition to the problems of foreign ownership, there is the additional problem of the length of the lease. In spite of the large amount paid initially for the project, inflation would threaten to lower the long term value to the taxpayers. Combined with the loss of control on the fees for a vital transportation hub for the state, we could be left with a vital road in the hands of interests that we have no say over. It is not known whether Democratic State House incumbent Jesse White will be supporting or opposing Governor Ed Rendell on this measure. Republican State House candidate Frank Yuvan can be reached at 724-747-0210. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com GTX06482 4 News Sports Sports Beat, 5/2/08 Featured Columns Opinion Richs Random Thoughts 6/6/08 Irey to Divorce Notes from the NFL Draft What really happened to South Strabane Parks and Wreck? South Strabane Group Homes City Beat 5-16-08 The High Tide of Environmentalism The Problem with Government Sports Beat, 5/16/08 Richs Random Thoughts 5/16/08 South Strabane: The Fall of the Great Wall Amwell Water Troubles Continue Yuvan Opposes Turnpike Deal “Idiot” leads City, holds “illegal meeting” City Beat, 5-30-08 Entertainmen      ");
array_files[43]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/112307cb.htm","2009-03-14","9K"," City Beat 11-23-07     ","",""," City Beat 11-23-07 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT BY George Murin November 23, 2007 Washington – I am writing this column a few days before Thanksgiving and would like to share a few thoughts. Not much is happening right now, there are no meetings to cover and I’m waiting to see the final budget for 2008. It has been a tough year for the city and it may be hard, but I hope each and everyone can find at least a few things to be thankful for. I will try hard to guess what each member of city government might giving thanks for. Mayor Westcott: Thanks for not letting me put my foot in my mouth in the last few months of my term in office. Councilwoman Ullom: Thanks for letting councilman Staniszewski miss the last few meetings. Councilman Bunner: Thanks for letting me off the hook for all the things I’ve said. Councilman Nicolella: Thanks for letting me off this joke of a council. Councilman Staniszewski: Thanks for letting miss the last few meetings. Treasurer Spossey: Thanks for putting me in the hot seat as the next mayor. Controller Adams: Thanks for letting me run unopposed for treasurer. May they all have a Happy Thanksgiving! The hard work is just beginning.     ");
array_files[44]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/053008amwell.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," Amwell Water Troubles Continue     ","",""," Amwell Water Troubles Continue AMWELL WATER TROUBLES CONTINUE By Ken Bonnell The Weekly Recorder May 30, 2008 Last Thursday the Amwell Water Authority Board met with Trinity School board members Dennis McWreath and Gerald Chambers to discuss the situation between the Trinity School Board and the Authority. In particular was the tremendous water bill of 4,500+ a month for Trinity South from the Amwell Water Authority that was first brought to light by The Weekly Recorder. McWreath and Chambers questioned the meter charges that Trinity has been paying over the past fourteen years. Don Bamberger, a Water Authority board member, stated that the charges went to American Water, but under further questioning by this reporter, he corrected himself and stated that the payment for charges did come to the Water Authority. McWreath and Chambers also questioned whether the Authority’s liability insurance policy covered Trinity School District as the original agreement between the two parties required. The Authority was not sure if it did, nor could Trinity business manager Jim Shargots remember. The Trinity School District, it was learned during the meeting, is still owed 587,000 by the Amwell Water Authority for the payment of all costs on the line development and installation. Trinity superintendent Tom Turnbaugh pointed out the high charges for water by the Water Authority and stated that the district would like to get paid back the money from the surplus money. Not surprising considering that the District has been paying about 50,000 a year to the Authority while receiving back 11,000 on the loan. There are four issues that The Weekly Recorder has requested information regarding: 1) Copies of the CPA audits done by the Authority as required by the Municipal Authority Act. The act requires that an audit be done annually by a CPA and a copy will be filed. This report must be advertised in a paper of general circulation. Dick Bishop, chairman of the Authority stated that no audits have been done since the Authority was fo      ");
array_files[45]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/010408cb.htm","2009-03-14","12K"," City Beat 1-4-08     ","",""," City Beat 1-4-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT By George Murin January 4, 3008 Washington- The new administration takes over city hall on January 7th and my sources have the scoop. Council assignments will probably look like this: Matt Staniszewski will take the street department, Virginia Ullom will take over accounts and finances, Tom Blackhurst will direct the fire department, Terry Faust will head Parks and recreation and of course Mayor Sonny Spossey will lead the police department. This is not set in stone but will likely be the line up for city council in 2008. Spossey will likely name Roger Blyth to replace outgoing police Chief John Haddad. The replacement of Jeff Watson as city solicitor is still up in the air. Spossey’s choice of attorney Pat Smider is one possibility and the other is the law firm of Keranko and Jefferies. Some political dealing is probably in the works. One bit of disturbing news is that the incoming city council is considering hiring new people at city hall and increasing others benefits; while still refusing to bring undermanned departments like the fire department, street department and others up to full staffing. They have said in the past they cannot hire because they are near bankruptcy, BUT IF THEY CAN AFFORD TO HIRE NEW PERSONELL OR INCREASE OTHERS BENEFITS, THEN THEY SURELY CAN FILL DEPLETED SPOTS IN VITAL DEPARTMENTS. The city is in the business of providing essential services. This is what they should concentrate on, if not, the taxpayers deserve a break. It will be an interesting year and I look forward to covering this council as it tries to keep the city afloat. CITY BEAT ARTICLES December 21, 2007 January 4, 2008 November 23, 2007 December 7, 2007 December 14, 2007     ");
array_files[46]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/052308sswall.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," South Strabane: The Fall of the Great Wall     ","",""," South Strabane: The Fall of the Great Wall SOUTH STRABANE: THE FALL OF THE GREAT WALL By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder May 23, 2008 It has been described as the “Great Wall of Manifold Road,” but like the ancient wonders of the world it may be crumbling down. Like all things people like to jump to the fantastic and the dramatic. The truth is it may not be as bad as we are being led to believe, and if it is whose at fault? In the end will The Foundry be nothing more than legend? Almost three years ago after the TIF was accepted by all boards, Premier Properties came into a South Strabane Township meeting and announced they were going to build a shopping center, whose square footage was more than Tanger Outlets, and they didn’t ask for any public assistance. After years of arguing over giving away tax money residents were relieved to see a developer come without their hand out, and instead giving to us. Premier properties donated a pavilion in Driscoll Park worth over 12,000. They were always polite and honest when they came to board meetings. But now in the wake of their financial problems and after delays on the project, which may have been caused by a local politician, The Foundry is not only at a standstill, but rumors are flying that the building is sinking. However this is not a recent problem. This is a rumor that has been circulating for over a year. One of Premiers representative’s told us at a meeting that they were having issues with the ground because they had moved to build to quick. They never tried to hide the fact from anyone. But now Bed Bath and Beyond has closed and is rumored to be breaking their lease. Other stores like Ross dress for less have closed to check their structure as well, for safety precautions. Is it as bad as we think or is this nothing more than a publicity stunt to get out of a lease? Three papers carried the story. Everyone is in such shock. Really? Even the editor of this paper called me to tell me. But I really wasn’t moved or excited. Then after talking to someone els      ");
array_files[47]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/122107citybeat.htm","2009-03-14","12K"," City Beat 12-21-07     ","",""," City Beat 12-21-07 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT BY George Murin December 21, 2007 Washington- City council probably held its last meeting of 2007, December 13th. During the long public participation, City Treasurer and Mayor Elect Sonny Spossey spoke on tax collections for 2007. Many of the taxes collected were over or near the budgeted amounts for the year. He then spoke of the debt service for 2007. He listed the pension debt for the city as 11% of the budget or 1,131,896. (I find this interesting since the bond issue of 1997 was for 258,000 a year, and since then the city has contributed NOTHING to the pension funds until this year. It used the state aid money to pay off the bond. If the city would have stuck in the 300,000 plus each year that it received in state aid and the ½% of taxes collected, as required in third class city code, the million dollar figure would probably be next to nothing. Blaming it on the employees seems to be the city answer to all its problems, not the mismanagement of the city fathers.) He listed the total debt service at 2.5 million a year or 24% of the total city budget. Sonny and the other newly elected council members have a tough job ahead trying to straighten out the mess the previous council made. More projects are coming out to try to take advantage of the gambling money available. Three more were presented: A building at the corner of Locust Ave. and Leonard Ave.; the Watermark Gallery project for the downtown; and Auld project for upscale apartments above the state store on Main and Maiden Streets, the sight of the old Auld Hotel. The discussion on VisionQuest’s school for troubled teenage girls followed. Those who spoke out asked city council to appeal a judges order that allowed it to be opened on a technicality. This was when the city failed to notify VisionQuest in writing, within 30 days, that their request to open was denied. VisionQuest was at the meeting. First Linda Wade, who has been in the front of this issue, sta      ");
array_files[48]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/040408cb.htm","2009-03-14","24K"," City Beat     ","",""," City Beat City Beat By George Murin The Weekly Recorder April 4, 2008 Washington- Last Thursday’s (March 27th) agenda meeting had some interesting moments. A discussion took place of the city annexing the property it owns next to the park, which is in South Strabane Township. The idea is a great move. The access to this property is only available through the city’s park right now and to have South Strabane’s Police patrol this area does not make much sense. The city wants to develop this property to increase its tax base and is in a much better position to do this. The park and the school need a second exit for emergencies and events like the 4th of July and Pony League World Series. The city’s solicitor stated at the meeting that it will take at least six month for this to take place but doesn’t see any real problems for this to happen because the city owns 100% of the property it wants to annex. The sale of a portion Strawberry Alley to Washington and Jefferson College was also brought up. The first reading of this will take place at the April 3rd’s regular city council meeting. The sale price is going to be around 102,500. Terry Faust wanted to hold a public hearing on the matter before the sale. This reporter found out that this is because reportedly council originally wanted a 100 per student fee for city services to be attached to the sale, which would bring into the city 100,000 plus every year instead of a one time revenue source and a 50 fee for each semester is a very reasonable amount for each student who pays 25,000 a year or more for their education. The college allegedly objected to this and most of council backed down. It seems to me to be a great idea. The college is an asset to the city but it is also a leech, a blood sucking institution, taking huge amounts of property off the tax roles and putting the burden and expense of city government on fewer and fewer city residents. The college needs to do a better job to support the community it resides in and a small fee is not hardship on the schoo      ");
array_files[49]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/sstwp101907b.htm","2009-03-14","15K"," South Strabane Fighting Its Own Demons page 2 10-19-07     ","",""," South Strabane Fighting Its Own Demons page 2 10-19-07 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com South Strabane fighting it’s own Demons page 2... Hollick’s grade is a D because he doesn’t play well with others and had to ask in an open meeting why the township would buy 1 and 2 cent stamps. It had to be explained to him that they were using old ones that needed more postage. He also lacks the interest of the common good and makes statements that discredit other statements he has made. Rumor around the township is that residents may be asking for Hollick to be expelled from the board. Resembling a gargoyle is supposed to keep away evil spirits, not make you one. Tony Zelenka- Zelenka has good and bad points but has proved to be on the wrong side of the issues. During the TIF meetings he showed more concern for the developers than the residents and ignored what the people wanted. Recently, according to Bell, he mislead him into believing he would abide by Bell’s wishes and put Don Trautman back on the board. Instead he stuck with Hollick and put on DePretis in a move that upset the community. Although Zelenka has occasionally shown concern and interest in the residents, it is few and far between. He recently agreed with a resident who accused Hollick’s attack on Dennis Makel and his driveway to be personal, Zelenka agreed with her in public. But with the little good has also been the self-interest based around a ball field. If Zelenka put as much effort into the township as a whole as he does the ball field he would be a much better supervisor. Zelenka gets a C, but also may be facing expulsion. Lou DePretis- Took a position that didn’t belong to him, and can’t win over the public. DePretis, like Zelenka, has his good and bad days. Following in the footsteps of Hollick and Zelenka he also tends to push personal agenda’ s whether it be a skate park or a client’s son’s interest, at the cost of residents. Like the other two he is also known to become irate with the residents at meetings to t      ");
array_files[50]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/033008jail.htm","2009-03-14","22K"," State Police Visit Jail on Friday     ","",""," State Police Visit Jail on Friday STATE POLICE VISIT JAIL ON FRIDAY The Weekly Recorder March 30, 2008 As part of the on-going investigation into both former District Attorney John Pettit’s alleged sexual encounters with inmates and the Washington County Jail, plain clothed State Police visited the Washington County Jail on Friday. The State is believed to be pursuing a separate but related investigation into the alleged wrong-doings of Pettit and county employees that either participated or allowed these alleged sexual acts. Of the county officials, only Commissioner Diana Irey has come forward and stated that something should be done regarding the problems that are likely facing the county jail. County solicitor Lynn DeHaven is still keeping secret which county employees are being investigated in spite of the fact that the county has taken no formal action to investigate internally the alleged wrong-doing. Pettit is alleged to have taken inmates out of the jail for sexual encounters, sometimes in exchange for being driven to crack houses. Some county employees are believed to have been aware of these activities, but did nothing. Other possible investigations according to well placed sources are that some jail employees also had sexual encounters with prisoners. One alleged incident happened according to our source happened when a jail official came in drunk and had sex with a prisoner. This same prisoner is one of the petty criminals connected to former District Attorney John Pettit. Pettit has been alleged to have sexual encounters with a series of young ladies, most notably Tiffany Ryan. Ryan is not the female that is connected to the above incident. Prison beatings, an alleged cover-up of at least one inmate death and sexual encounters with prisoners have plagued the jail, but the official response has been to do nothing. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News City Beat, 3/21/08 Pettit Moves Back Home Sports Articles Sports Beat, 4/11/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Vict      ");
array_files[51]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/pi112003.htm","2009-03-14","13K"," November 2003 Pettit Interview     ","",""," November 2003 Pettit Interview All Rights Reserved PETTIT INTERVIEW November 2003 Q: Has the FBI brought in the Organized Crime Division? Answer: Not to my knowledge, I have no knowledge as to if they are out there looking. COMMENTARY: This question seems even more important in the wake of both Mr. Petitt’s claim that this was a plot to kill him and the ongoing investigation of Pettit by the FBI. Q: Was Brilla a plea bargin? Answer: No, he went to trial Q: Who defended him in that case? Answer: I don’t recall, John DiSalle was the prosecuting attorney on that case, from my office. COMMENTARY: John DiSalle is now a judge in the Court of Common Pleas. Q: Who was the judge? Answer: I believe it was Judge Gilmore COMMENTARY: Judge Gilmore died while golfing with Petitt Q: Did he appeal that case? Answer: I don’t believe so Q: There is a lot of talk on the streets about coins left on the bodies of the victims, can you comment? Answer: I have heard a lot of that type of discussion myself. I can’t comment about that situation. COMMENTARY: It was later learned that a coin was found on the body of Brilla. It was his “lucky” coin that he showed everyone he met. Q: Did it look like a professional did it …someone that knew how to kill people? Answer: The fact that two people are no longer alive is a clear indication that whoever the killer was knew how to kill people. COMMENTARY: Pettit’s case was built around the idea that Gerald Gregg was killing as part of a plot to takeover the underworld of Washington County. This would normally mean someone that was a professional. Q: A business like hit, not like guys on the street getting into a tussle? Answer: There isn’t anyway without talking about the scene that would be appropriate at this time to really answer that question. Even if we were just talking about seeing a movie and discussing particular scene, it is pretty difficult to make an accurate determination whether something is professionally done or someone who is very knowledgeable did it. Q: It is an open investigati      ");
array_files[52]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/020108white.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," WHITE VOTES AGAINST PERZEL ADMENDMENT     ","",""," WHITE VOTES AGAINST PERZEL ADMENDMENT All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com WHITE VOTES AGAINST PERZEL ADMENDMENT February 1, 2008 State Rep. Jesse White has apparently voted against the admendment offered by Republican John Perzel to target the slots money towards giving removing senior citizens from the tax rolls. The measure which would have removed most senior citzens from the rolls was opposed by powerful State Rep. Bill DeWeese. White, in spite of promises for tax relief, voted alongside the political leadership of the Democratic party. White, who recently supported former District Attorney John Pettit who is being investigated by a Federal Grand Jury, apparently has decided to remain a loyal foot soilder for the Democratic party again. DeWeese, who has been known to use his political power to punish those that oppose him, is also under investigation from the State Attorney General’s office. White had already spoken on his blog online that he had problems with the current debate on property tax. Like past attempts, one party or the other has derailed any attempt for change. But White was expected to be different. He argued on his own blog that something, anything should be tried. But when presented with a plan, he instead chose to side with powerful leadership and vote down a plan that would have aided millions of seniors in the State. Though he has proposed ending the property tax situation, White has placed the blame for failures on the representatives from richer school districts. White, whose wife is a school teacher, has offered no plans to actually decrease spending by the public school systems. Instead he has actually stated that our school need to be “cathederals”, in what was an apparent slap at state legislation that limited the building of “Taj Mahal” schools that were costing taxpayers millions around the state. As we found out about White’s vote after normal business hours, we are willing to offer White space next week to explain his vote.     ");
array_files[53]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/020108stout.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," STOUT FINALLY LEAVES COUNTY HOME     ","",""," STOUT FINALLY LEAVES COUNTY HOME All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com STOUT FINALLY LEAVES COUNTY HOME February 1, 2008 Chartiers-Powerful State Senator J. Barry Stout has finally ended his long term stay at the Washington County Personal Care Home. Stout has experienced a series of health problems over the past few years resulting in numerous stays in local hospitals. But the recent stay of the powerful State Senator in the County Home has had even long time supporters upset. Though none would go on the record with their names, local democratic supporters of Stout were outraged at his stay. One common complaint was that County Home was not built for those with power and influence like Stout. Instead the facility was built to help those that could not afford private care. Stout did pay for his entire stay, so that county taxes were not used for his care. but question can and should arise. Was he given extra treatment and care because of who he was? It would be hard to imagine that county employees were not directed to take “extra” care of the State Senator. County officials are largely dependant on Stout’s clout to bring in money for projects. The result of course would be decreased care and attention towards other more potentially deserving patients. Was there anyone neglected because of Stout’s recent long term stay? That is a question that will likely never be answered both due to federal regulations regarding health care and treatment and political necessity. Few if any political figures would dare challenge the man that delivers the majority of the funding for the county projects. In spite of years of Stout and his family allegedly benefiting from political connections and contracts with governmental agencies, only the Philadelphia Inquirer has ever attempted to document the various dealings. Now many are questioning whether Stout should have ever ran for this past term. He has spent a great deal of the time unable to actually perform the duties of the office due to his declini      ");
array_files[54]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/012508workrelease.htm","2009-03-14","9K"," WORK RELEASE, COULD THERE BE ISSUES?     ","",""," WORK RELEASE, COULD THERE BE ISSUES? All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com WORK RELEASE, COULD THERE BE ISSUES? January 25, 2008 Washington-One burning question is whether Staniszewski release for council meetings and city business could be a problem for the city. Consider that most employers take responsibility for their employees time and actions while on work release. The question will arise, just who is responsible for Staniszewski if he is allowed to attend meetings and conduct city business while on work release. Most work release programs specify a time to be released and a time to return, but given the fact that council meetings can run longer or shorter than planned this could cause issues on both accounts. All of this of course avoids the fundamental problem of a person that is held to the public trust being a prisoner. How can anyone effectively manage the public’s interest from a jail cell? How can Staniszewski handle the emergencies that happen with the street department during snow storms? What about other road emergencies, no matter how rare? Will Mayor Spossey be forced to handle both the street department and the police? Consider that everytime Staniszewski votes on issues of law and order or in fact any issue of which there is disagreement, many in the public will question his very right to stand and speak on the issue given his own imprisonment. Most employers have to agree to work with a work release program and it should be the city of Washington’s right to avoid this public disaster and say no to Staniszewski being able to come to and vote on the city’s business.     ");
array_files[55]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/012508council.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," COUNCIL EXPRESSES RELIEF AND SADNESS AT CONVICTION     ","",""," COUNCIL EXPRESSES RELIEF AND SADNESS AT CONVICTION All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com COUNCIL EXPRESSES RELIEF AND SADNESS AT CONVICTION January 25, 2008 Councilwoman Virginia Ullom was the most emotional “Not a happy thing for me”. She continued to say “Matt has to take care of his problem.....I don’t feel good about that, I wish it did not happen to him. I hope that he straightens up. Good move on his part to get in a program. But my first concern is the city.” Ullom as noted focused on the potential problems for the city in the wake of Staniszewski’s extended stay in the county jail. Though some news outlets have reported that Staniszewski will be granted leave to attend council meetings, District Attorney Steve Toprani informed us that it was not part of the plea agreement though Staniszewski requested it. He informed us that his office will have no role in determining whether Staniszewski will be granted work release for council meetings. He did inform the Weekly Recorder that Staniszewski was granted work release if he is eligible, which is likely. Most states put restrictions on work release for those people with histories of violent crimes, Staniszewski has no previous criminal record outside of a previous DUI charge. Newly elected councilman Tom Blackhurst stated simple “I hope he gets the help he needs”. Blackhurst and Terry Faust could now form a voting block capable of stopping any ordinance or resolution that they don’t agree on. The result is that Staniszewski, who figured to be potentially a swing vote, could be absent for the key votes. Mayor Sonny Spossey seemed more focused on the problems that will face the city with Staniszewski in prison. He admitted that there was no plan as to would take over Staniszewski’s duties with the Street Department. One of the reasons for the failure of a plan was the belief that any future punishment would have to wait until after his scheduled hearing in February. The city will have some time to prepare potentially as Staniszewski      ");
array_files[56]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/012508staniszewski.htm","2009-03-14","9K"," MATT STANISZEWSKI FINALLY HEADING TO JAIL     ","",""," MATT STANISZEWSKI FINALLY HEADING TO JAIL All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com MATT STANISZEWSKI FINALLY HEADING TO JAIL January 25, 2008 Washington-Washington’s greatest embarrassment, councilman Matt Staniszewski has finally accepted the obvious, that there is a price for drinking and driving. Staniszewski finally plead on Wednesday to two charges of driving under the influence. Staniszewski’s plea which resulted in a minimum six month sentence was the product of the councilman facing the prospect of even harsher punishment if he had taken his chances in court. New District Attorney Steve Toprani accomplished in 16 days what his predecessor John Pettit did not over nearly a year, getting the area’s most well known alcoholic to admit his wrong doing. Staniszewski, like many in trouble with drugs and alcohol, was unwilling to both accept his responsibility for his actions and accept that alcohol and drugs were destroying his life. Staniszewski has been the subject of many questions during his tenure in office, most centering on his behavior, his actions while driving and his apparent unsafe loss of weight. Once a healthy weight, Staniszewski was noticed to have dropped massive amounts of weight. The result was a man that looked like he was heading for disaster. But the quick actions of the new District Attorney’s office might have averted a tragedy before it happens, either for Staniszewski or some poor innocent victim on the road. Staniszewski will face a minimum of 2 90 day sentences to be served consecutively and a maximum of sixteen months according to District Attorney Chief of Staff Steven Fischer.     ");
array_files[57]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011808southstrabane.htm","2009-03-14","17K"," South Strabane, Where are our taxes going?     ","",""," South Strabane, Where are our taxes going? All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com South Strabane, Where are our taxes going? By Judi Panasik January 18, 2008 For the last two years South Strabane Supervisors have been under a microscope, and rightfully so. The actions taken by several of the supervisors over the last two years have been nothing short of self-serving. Residents continue to be ignored and questionable decisions continue to be made. Maybe that should be South Strabane’s slogan? What I hope after writing all of these articles, attending and taping all of these mind numbing meetings, that the residents remember next year who did what to their township. The sad thing is you don’t have to be a psychic to see what they are doing. They don’t even hide it well, but yet they continue to get away with things that affect all of us. Recently a South Strabane Township resident called Central Tax regarding a payment and was able to speak to one of their representatives that attended the supervisor meetings. The employee felt bad that Lillian Trautman and her assistant were not made aware that they would be losing their jobs until November. Central Tax had been told in June or July that they had the job. Isn’t that funny since Supervisors Bob Koman and Ed Mazur were not made aware of anyone even talking to Central Tax until October or November? What we do know, and Koman has confirmed, is that Ex- (never elected) Supervisor Lou DePretis had his name on correspondence with Central Tax. Did DePretis not want anyone to know about his dealings with Central because he was running for office? Did Supervisors Bob Hollick and Tony Zelenka who voted with DePretis on the deal know? To tell Central Tax they were going to get the job last summer you would have to know you would have 3 of the 5 votes. Are there hints of the Sunshine Act being broken? Why were Koman and Mazur kept in the dark for months? Was it done this way so they wouldn’t have enough time to look over the questionable savings it      ");
array_files[58]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/032808vitteck.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," Vitteck Goes After Sonny Spossey     ","",""," Vitteck Goes After Sonny Spossey Vitteck Goes After Sonny Spossey March 28, 2008 Pettit ally George Vitteck launched his newest assault against the City of Washington Mayor Sonny Spossey. Vitteck sent letters out removing Spossey from the local Democratic party leadership. Spossey, was an ally of Vitteck’s opponent for control of the party, Milan Marinkovich. But Spossey made the doubly bad decision according to Vitteck supporters of actually working against former District Attorney John Petitt and supporting Prothonotary Phyllis Ranko Matheny. Spossey even donated to the Steve Toprani campaign during the bi-partisan campaign to end the 24 year reign of John Pettit. Vitteck is backed heavily by State Representative Jesse White who even employees Vitteck’s wife Judy. One Democrat recently told us “Jesse is all Vittecked up” referring to the close relationship between Vitteck and White. Spossey is believed to be considering his legal choices in the wake of the actions by Vitteck. Most observers believe that Vitteck will likely lose any court battle with Spossey, but question whether it would be worth the expense to fight Vitteck. George Vitteck Sonny Spossey All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News City Beat, 3/21/08 City Beat, 3/14/08 Pettit Moves Back Home FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People Sports Articles Sports Beat, 3/28/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory Sports Beat, 3/21/08 Wraslin Round Up Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/28/08 Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio Obama’s Continental Divide Campaign Briefs Support for Obama in Washington Is Political Change Finally Here? Vitteck Goes After Sonny Spossey Former Steelers Cheerleader for Obama Letters to Editor Letter: Not Seeking Township Position Letter: Response to Tom Flickinger Letter: Eirik Westcoat Jimmy D’Alessandro Protests It Is Time to Clean House State Police Visit Jail on F      ");
array_files[59]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/051608cb.htm","2009-03-14","20K"," City Beat - City of Washington     ","",""," City Beat - City of Washington City Beat By George Murin The Weekly Recorder May 16, 2008 Washington- BILL No. 8 is dead. The landlords of the city of Washington rallied together and put enough pressure on Mayor Spossey and city council to force them into killing the proposed bill. Bill No. 8 would have had each rental unit in the city inspected and each resident of the unit registered; of course a fee would have been attached. When the mayor made the announcement at the end of the May 8th regular council meeting, he said “That’s it. It’s done!” When asked if there would still be a meeting with the landlords Monday, he responded “there will not.” The audience broke into applause. The rest of the meeting was dull in comparison. During public participation, John Campbell, the Elm Street manager thanked council and the fire and street departments for their help to clean up the Highland –Ridge area; Controller Nick Dubina announced that the 2007 audit was complete and copies are available; Danny Isiminger of Isiminger’s towing, donated 500 to the police department and 500 to the fire department. Brenda Davis brought up the landlords concerns but also questioned why the solid waste bill when up 50 when Waste Management only increased the bill by 12? No one on council had an answer. Councilman Matt Staniszewski reminded her that he voted against it. Matt always reminds people that he voted against the budget, tax increase, etc…. She thanked him and then pressed again for answers. The mayor said that council would have to check on this, but right now he didn’t have the figures. Of the 20 plus motions during the meeting, all passed without opposition, except the vote on the final reading of Bill No. 10, which appoints a solicitor for the purpose of delinquent taxes. Councilman Staniszewski voted against the bill without explanation. Most of the bills were for routine matters, paying bills and such. But 52,632.99 was transferred to code enforcement demolition; this will allow many more dilapidated buildings to be torn       ");
array_files[60]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011108canton.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," CANTON REORGANIZES     ","",""," CANTON REORGANIZES All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CANTON REORGANIZES By Ken Bonnell January 11, 2008 The Board of supervisors welcomed new supervisor Bob Franks at their reorganization meeting this week. Sam Bear was re-appointed Chairman of the board. Ron Harton was re-appointed Secretary/Treasurer at a salary of 18.00 per hour. Sharon Mosier was hired as a part time secretary at 11.00 per hour. Dennis Makel was retained as solicitor. HMT was made the engineering and zoning. Robert Neitzele was hired as code enforcement officer at a salary of 18.00 an hour with a 30 hour work week. The board accepted the resignation of Marlene Miller as Auditor and appointed Audine Beno to fill the position to the next municipal election. The board also reappointed Ron Harton as Canton township superintendent Roadmaster with his salary to be set by the board of Auditors as described in the 2nd class township code section 606 (a&b) and further enumerated by the PSATS wage and salary survey. Township office hours for 2008 are 8 am till 4:30 pm Monday through Thursday and 8 am till 2 p.m. on Friday. Township meetings are at 6:30 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of each month except January when it’s on January 17th. Auditors The Canton Auditors reorganized on Tuesday January 8th with newly elected auditor Donna Sheppard being elected chairman and Audine Beno now vice-chairman. Auditor Judy Vitteck declining the secretary position. The Auditor approved the treasure bond of 750,000.00. The board of Auditors voted to settle the Harton lawsuits and his overtime pay issues with Auditor Judy Vitteck voting no. Their action has to be approved with settlement agreements being done accordingly to township solicitor Dennis Makel. The board voted to terminate the law firm of Keranko and Jeffries, which had being appointed by Judge Kathy Emery to represent the auditors in their lawsuit by Harton. The board set the salary of Harton at 45,510.40 for the 2008 calendar year. This pay amount was based on PSATS survey of      ");
array_files[61]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/051608strabane.htm","2009-03-14","26K"," Group Homes have residents up in arms in South Strabane     ","",""," Group Homes have residents up in arms in South Strabane Group Homes have residents up in arms in South Strabane By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder May 16, 2008 As Dan Piatt took his oath to fill the position as a South Strabane Supervisor he had no idea what his first meeting was going to hold. At the South Strabane Township Supervisor’s meeting on Tuesday May 13, public comment took 2 hours and 15 minutes as residents from the area between the Washington Hospital, Colonial Woods Pool and Driscoll Park took turns telling supervisors their concerns about group homes encroaching on their neighborhood, and wanted action taken for those who had not followed township policy. Carl Trusler, a resident of the area for over 38 years was the first to speak. As Trusler was followed by many other residents of the area it took over an hour to figure out what was really going on and then another hour to resolve the issue. The main problem was the residents started out sounding like an anger mob that was on their way to a lynching. They complained about a particular group home but wouldn’t come out and say that they believed it was for recovering drug addicts possibly. Those not familiar with the situation had to almost read between the lines. They complained about people walking the streets using telephones and old junky cars that were parked up and down the street in front of resident’s homes. They didn’t like people coming and going all of the time at all hours. Truth be told they sounded almost un-American and elitist. But after the facts started to unravel, it was evident why the residents were upset. First and foremost, Trusler and his son-in-law Tom Berton had informed Township Manager John Stickle that they believed a home was being sold to a buyer and was going to be used as a group home. Stickle, who is also the township zoning officer, appeared to take no action. And if he did he did not defend himself at the meeting. At one point Stickle did say that he talked to the owners and was going to send them paperwork t      ");
array_files[62]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/032808yuvan.htm","2009-03-14","22K"," Is Political Change Finally Here?     ","",""," Is Political Change Finally Here? Is Political Change Finally Here? By Alisha M. Kendall The Weekly Recorder March 28, 2008 Washington, PA- I asked Frank Yuvan to meet me at Café Bean, hoping that the relaxing atmosphere would induce a pleasant and comfortable conversation. Mr. Yuvan is a Republican running for State Representative in the 46th district of Pennsylvania. The 46th district includes parts of Washington, Allegheny, and Beaver counties. Mr. Yuvan’s name is not on the ballot, but he is hoping for enough write-ins to get back on. He contracted bronchitis during campaigning, and when his signatures were challenged, he simply dropped out, to avoid facing up to 10,000 in lawyer fee’s. He needs a required 300 signatures in the primary next month to be placed back onto the ballot. Frank Yuvan grew up in the Washington area, learning martial arts. He graduated from Trinity high school in 2000, and spent some time at both the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, and California University, and after learning how to build anything with his hands, and receiving his E.M.T. certification, he decided teaching martial arts was the right career path for him. He feels that working with kids is always a rewarding experience, and he would be happy doing it for the rest off his life. He also owns a comic book store in Washington. Mr. Yuvan is tired of politicians, and others talking, yet never doing anything about it. He wants action, and he is willing to do anything it takes to change things for the better. Washington is in the top five of the most corrupt cities in the United States, and is often referred to as “Little Chicago.” To highlight this problem he shared an experience he had late one night in Washington with me. He pulled up to a red light, and within five minutes he was offered to buy a prostitute and asked if he wanted some “good powder.” He said the people walked right up to his car door, like he was in a drive-thru. That is why he wants to bring about change for the county of Washington, and it is about time som      ");
array_files[63]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011108charleroimurder.htm","2009-03-14","12K"," Murder in Charleroi     ","",""," Murder in Charleroi All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com MURDER IN CHARLEROI January 11, 2008 Someone’s child. It is a phrase that is often used when describing a murder victim, someone’s child. It is part of the emotional equation that drives the public’s interest in each and every homicide that happens. As all parents know, we spend years of our lives raising our children. We teach them values, both good and bad. We teach them to walk, we teach them how to live. They are our future. So when someone takes another person’s child and not only murders him or her, but throws them into the garbage, we take notice. Joe Natale 28 is accused of doing just that to someone’s child. Natale is accused of being the “Dumpster murderer” of Charleroi. A man that not only is accused of strangling his apparent lover with some improvised items, but then dumping her body into a nearby garbage bin. Natale is believed by police to have strangled the victim, Amanda Lynn Faux, ignoring her pleas for life to a man that she apparently loved. A love was apparently perverted with the drug use that might have drove both the alleged killer and his lover to the small town of Charleroi. Two young people, in love with both each other and apparently drugs, move to a new apartment. In spite of having drug problems just the night before they probably believed that things would be better in Charleroi, only Natale knows for certain. It was possibly a new start for both of them or maybe just a new way to live the lifestyle that so many in our communities live. A life of constant search for drugs and how to pay for them. But even if drugs were not involved that night as some suggest, drugs had apparently played a role in the life of both of them. Regardless whatever transpired between them that fateful night, Natale is believed to have made the decision to murder this woman that loved him. The murderer, if it was Natale, did not care that she was someone’s child. The murderer did not care that this was another human bein      ");
array_files[64]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/032808obamaheadquarters.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," Support for Obama in Washington     ","",""," Support for Obama in Washington Support for Obama in Washington By Alisha M. Kendall The Weekly Recorder March 28, 2008 Washington, PA- Tuesday night, the Washington headquarters of the Barack Obama campaign opened. Frank O’Haris cut the ribbon and said a few words to commemorate the opening. Around 300 people arrived to show their support. The two main points of the Washington office is for people to volunteer their time and support for Obama, and for people to learn about Obama’s platform, and stay informed about the campaign. Supporters will be doing several phone banks in the near future, at the headquarters and at other locations around the county. In addition, every Saturday at 10:00am and 2:00pm, and every Sunday at 2:00pm, supporters and volunteers will be meeting at the headquarters to do canvases, where they go around the neighborhood, door-to-door, and talk to people about Obama’s campaign and encourage them to vote. hey provide flyers and material for voters to get informed. Barack Obama will be visiting Pittsburgh on Friday, at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall. The doors will open at 9:00am, and the program starts at 11:00am. Tickets can be obtained from the Pittsburgh office of Obama for ’08. The headquarters in Washington is run on a mostly volunteer basis, and donations would be greatly appreciated. Several items they need include folders, a copier, staples, healthy snacks, and a wireless router. A complete list can be found at the headquarters. They are open from 9:00am to 9:00pm every day, so stop in, and pick up some informational material, to prepare for the primaries on April 22nd. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News City Beat, 3/21/08 City Beat, 3/14/08 Pettit Moves Back Home FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People Sports Articles Sports Beat, 3/28/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory Sports Beat, 3/21/08 Wraslin Round Up Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/0      ");
array_files[65]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011108vitteckwins.htm","2009-03-14","9K"," GEORGE VITTECK WINS DEMOCRATIC NOD     ","",""," GEORGE VITTECK WINS DEMOCRATIC NOD All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com GEORGE VITTECK WINS DEMOCRATIC NOD January 11, 2008 Washington-George Vitteck has won the post that he has coveted for years, Chairman of the Washington County Democratic Party. In a stunning upset, engineered by Kingmaker George Retos, Vitteck and his entire team of supporters were swept into office after over a year of disputed elections. Milan Marinkovich, the powerful but contraversial former chairman, was soundly defeated by Vitteck in spite of high profile defections from Vitteck’s camp including Democratic State Committeewoman Peg Wilson. One of the bones of contention was the support of Republican nominees Phyllis Ranko Matheny and Steve Toprani for office this fall. As part of Milan’s strategy to help defeat both Judith Fisher and John Pettit, there was no distribution of funds for the Democratic party faithful. It was this discontent that Vitteck with the aide and advice of Retos tapped into for victory. Strangely, Retos was a supporter of Toprani’s also. Matheny’s supporters have stated numerous times that Matheny was and is a registered Democrat and only won the Republican nomination. Vitteck has coveted the post for decades due to his admiration of the old party bosses of his youth. Men like Mike Hanna ran the Democratic party with an iron fist and controlled elections and Vitteck is considered by many to be a standard bearer for a return to the “good old days”. Vitteck was and continues to be a staunch supporter of former District Attorney John Pettit who was soundly defeated for re-election and is facing an FBI investigation into possible wrongdoing.     ");
array_files[66]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/050208southstrabane.htm","2009-03-14","38K"," What really happened to South Strabane Parks and Wreck?     ","",""," What really happened to South Strabane Parks and Wreck? What really happened to South Strabane Parks and Wreck? By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder May 2, 2008 I would like to apologize for not writing this article sooner. But the story of the demise of the South Strabane Parks and Recreation Board is not a simple story that happened over two or three meetings. And it wasn’t the result of two supervisors asking a few questions. I will try in as few words as possible to explain what took about two years to accomplish and is documented on hours of videotape for anyone who doesn’t believe the following story. It started two years ago when I began attending township meetings over the TIF (tax increment financing). I was at a South Strabane Agenda meeting, back when they were held, when bids were being opened for new ball-fields. I remember the bids were close to 900,000 to a million dollars. Someone I would discuss the TIF with said they suspected part of the agenda for some people voting in favor of the TIF was to get money for the fields and the park. And although he has denied it, according to the parks board at the time, Ex-Supervisor Tony Zelenka had spoke with Bass Pro and they had promised to put a proficiency pond in the new South Strabane Park. It was also ironic that the 700,000 the Trinity School Board was getting from the TIF was the amount mentioned by Zelenka at one of the Supervisor meetings that he was hoping to get from them to go toward the ball-fields. That deal between the township and school district fell through. But this is what started my involvement with the Parks and Recreation Board. I went to my first meeting asking questions as to why they were building ball-fields in a township that already had about 15 of them. I was told the park was designed by Pashek, the planner they had hired. They said Pashek was the one who came up with what was going to be in the park. I was to find out later that this was not the case. On April 23, Jim Pashek came to a South Strabane Supervisor Meeting and a      ");
array_files[67]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/032108campaign.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," CAMPAIGN BREIFS FROM WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA     ","",""," CAMPAIGN BREIFS FROM WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CAMPAIGN BRIEFS FROM WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA The Weekly Recorder March 21, 2008 HILLARY CLINTON - HOW TO GET INVOLVED Hillary Clintons campaign had a great event recently in Washington County with President Clinton. Were looking forward to building on Hillarys strong support throughout the country. Hillarys campaign is pleased to have field staff organizing in the county and we are working to open an office here very soon. Next week, we will be holding phone banks and door-knocking the weekend of March 28 and 29th. For more information or to Get involved, please contact Washington County Field Organizer Michel Chaghouri via email at: mchaghouri@hillaryclinton.com OBAMA CAMPAIGN UPDATE The Washington County campaign held another meeting on Saturday, March 8th, at the Citizens Library. Again, we have a very nice turnout of enthusiastic Barack supporters. The meeting was followed by a day of new voter registration canvassing. This is our main focus until the March 24th deadline. Absentee ballot applications are also being made available to those who need them. A big thank you goes to the staff of the Citizens Library, especially Judy Davis, who were so helpful the three times that our group met there. Our last meeting also dealt with the formation of our leadership team which will be responsible for recruiting volunteers in various areas of the campaign. We are inviting fellow Democrats, Independents, and Republicans to join us. We continue to register new Democrats to vote for Barack and his delegates on April 22. On March 13-15 and again on March 20-21, we will be at the Walmart at Trinity Point. On March 15, we will also be at the Washington Crown Center from noon-4 as part of the Minority Health Fair. We will then wrap things up on March 22 with a lunch (you pay) at the Ponderosa Steak House at Trinity Circle. This will be followed by a final push to register new voters in the area. Volunteers are always needed. Call or contact Paul Rafail at 724-94      ");
array_files[68]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011108trinity.htm","2009-03-14","12K"," SPORTS VS EDUCATION     ","",""," SPORTS VS EDUCATION All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com SPORTS VS. EDUCATION By Judi Panasik January 11, 2008 Trinity School District is at a crossroads: education or sports? With five new members out of nine on the Trinity School Board, enough to make a difference during voting, which way will they go? When running for office last year School Board Members Jack Keisling, Tom Bodnovich, and William Clemens all took the positions that Trinity needed to improve the quality of education and keep unnecessary spending down. School Board Member Jeff Miller wanted to create more equality between the schools. Both Miller and Jim Knapp were supported by a teachers group, which helped secure their seats. So boys, put our money where your votes are. At the January 3, Trinity School Board meeting, according to the Observer Reporter, parents of Trinity South Elementary School came to the meeting to discuss several issues, one being the need to add a third teacher to the fifth grade. School board members motioned to add the third teacher. But it was Keisling who tried to amend the motion adding that they should take the 50,000 they were going to use for the long term lease on the South Strabane Ball field and pay for the unbudgeted teacher. Although Bodnovich seconded Keisling they were informed by their solicitor Mike Brongo that the deal was binding, so they both withdrew the motion. Well guess what, at the South Strabane Township Reorganization Meeting on January 7, a concerned taxpayer, Judi Panasik, asked the South Strabane Supervisors if you could get out of the deal. And the answer is yes. However that depends on the ethics, moral standards, and importance of education to the South Strabane Supervisors. Good Luck. Supervisor Tony Zelenka kept telling the resident it was a done deal. But as always Panasik was persistent and kept asking if it was possible to let Trinity out of the deal with no ramifications to either side since the field has not yet been used? By South Strabane’s own acknow      ");
array_files[69]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/050208water.htm","2009-03-14","23K"," How Gold Water Happened     ","",""," How Gold Water Happened HOW GOLD WATER HAPPENDED By Ken Bonnell The Weekly Recorder May 2, 2008 The Weekly Recorder has obtained copies of the 1994 Water Agreement between Amwell Township and the Trinity School District, 1995 budget and the 2008 budget. In the agreement, there are several issues that have been either not enforced or neglected by both sides. Under section 9, for example, it clearly states that all tap in fees be paid to the Trinity School District and to be used to help pay off the 550,000 debt that the Authority owes the district. The Recorder asked the authority if this has happened but the authority appeared not to know. When the Recorder contacted Dr. Thomas Turnbaugh if the District had received the tap in fees, he stated “That the district has no record of any money received, the agreement is worded that the fees are paid promptly.” Under Section 16 of the agreement the Amwell supervisors have the right to appoint members to the Authority with two members to be members recommended by the School District, this has not been done. From 2004 to the middle of 2006 the residents that were tapped into the water line did not receive a bill, nor were their meters read. Finally massive bills ranging from 2,700 to 3,000 were sent to these residents after it was uncovered that they were not billed. But when some residents contacted authority chairman Richard Bishop, he informed them that the bills would be waived. We contacted Bishop and he confirmed that the bills were waived. Bishop informed us that the authority had a total breakdown through the 2006 period. He also stated that the authority missed having quorums at many meetings. In response, he tried evening meetings to get members to attend and even that did not work. Shockingly, Bishop informed us that even the ledger was not kept up to date and that was not the only problem. According to the 1995 budget, the school district used 50,000 gallons of water per month and the five houses used a total of 15,000 gallons per month. Now remember that t      ");
array_files[70]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/122107retos.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," THE RETURN OF RETOS     ","",""," THE RETURN OF RETOS All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com THE RETURN OF RETOS - 2007’s Kingmaker December 21, 2007 Washington-Washington County’s newest kingmaker for 2007 is none other than former political powerhouse George Retos. Retos has been in political exile for years since his felony conviction. The irony of Retos return and choice as our kingmaker is his support for a series of reform candidates. While one could argue that Retos was just intelligent and moved where the wind was blowing, Retos was on board with many of the candidates early on. From his support for District Attorney-Elect Steve Toprani to his involvement in the Washington City Council race to his efforts to unseat Milan Marinkovich, Retos was in the backdrop of every major political story in Washington County. But Retos the reformer? it is a strange sound to many veteran political observers in the county. Retos, the consumate insider, was turned into an outsider by his prison sentence. Now as the years have passed and the memories fade, Retos has been rehabilitated. The real test of his new found power and clout will be in the decision of the city of Washington’s solicitor position. If his allies, the Keranko and Jefferies law firm gain the position of city solicitor. If Sonny Spossey maintains control and gives Pat Smider the position, Retos will have been rebuffed openly. It would signal a retreat back for increasing influence of the once powerful power broker. Regardless, Retos has proven that if you wait long enough, every gains a comeback. Retos replaces 2006 Kingmaker Ray Bologna, who failed miserably in attempting to keep his ally John Pettit in the District Attorney’s office.     ");
array_files[71]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/121407democraticdispute.htm","2009-03-14","9K"," DEMOCRATIC DISPUTE SETTLED     ","",""," DEMOCRATIC DISPUTE SETTLED All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com DEMOCRATIC DISPUTE SETTLED December 14, 2007 Washington-It appears that the long standing Washington County Democratic party dispute has been settled one day before an expected court apperance. According to George Retos, one of the challengers to Milan Marinkovich’s election system, the two parties have reached an agreement to hold a new election within 30 days of the settlement. The new election will be monitored by the Democratic State Committee due to the long standing disputes main contention, that Milan Marinkovich along with supporters and family of Commissioner Larry Maggi attempted to misuse proxy votes. Part of the settlement will be according to Retos no admission of guilt by the Marinkovich led faction. Marinkovich’s only opponent in the spring was George “Billy” Vitteck of Canton Township. At the time of the previous election, Vitteck had a good chance of winning due to a large group in opposition to Marinkovich. But since then, Marinkovich’s power and prestige has increased in part due to his stance on the behalf of Phyllis Ranko Matheny and Republican Steve Toprani. Vitteck is considered to be a long shot to win the newly held election, while he might have actually won the previously disputed election.     ");
array_files[72]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/121407toprani.htm","2009-03-14","11K"," Man of the Year - Steve Toprani     ","",""," Man of the Year - Steve Toprani All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com STEVE TOPRANI The Weekly Recorder’s 2007 MAN OF THE YEAR December 14, 2007 Washington-As the year started, 2007 seemed likely to be the year of Pettit. But one man was brave enough to stand up and say enough is enough, one man was strong enough to say I will do it, when others were unwilling and unable to be heard, that man was Steve Toprani. The young man from Monongahela bravely decided to fight the darkness that had descended upon this county and in so doing has given many of here hope for a better future. Yes, the election of 2007 was a once in a lifetime experience, a moment in time when the people of Washington County were able to be heard and say “Enough is Enough”. But to do so they needed a symbol, a man that they could put their support behind and Steve Toprani was that man. There is no greater contrast than to compare our previous men of the year, John Pettit, the man that Toprani ousted, Mickey Flynn, who was finally convicted of his illegal activities, and Judy Fisher who was defeated at long last. Yes, Toprani is a breath of fresh air compared to the previous rogues gallery for our men of the year. This young man is the genuine article, a kind human being that actually cares about the job he does. When we interviewed him this week at his provisional office, one is immediately struck by the amount of work that he and his supporters are doing without pay. Think about, instead of sitting at home waiting to take office, Steve Toprani and his team are working hard already to insure that the District Attorney’s office does not fall apart in the wake of Pettit’s troubles with the federal government. While sitting there I was able to spy the fact that Toprani is already writing and preparing to implement written policies for hiring and employee behavior. This is in sharp contrast to the 24 years of Pettit’s no written policy. But Toprani admitted that he is having problems preparing due to the issues surround      ");
array_files[73]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/042508southstrabane.htm","2009-03-14","28K"," It is a Mans World in South Strabane Township     ","",""," It is a Mans World in South Strabane Township It’s a man’s world in South Strabane Township By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder April 25, 2008 As always the South Strabane Township Meeting on Wednesday April 23, was mind numbing. And keeping true to form there were several questionable votes cast for motions and appointments to positions. The evening started with resident Burt Barale, who asked what was going to happen to the huge heaping pile of dirt and the wall that were the result of the Premier project, The Foundry, now that the company has gone bankrupt. The township wasn’t sure but was waiting to hear back from Premier. In the past Barale, whose home is across from the project, has stated concern for the piles of dirt as they were turning into mountains. Barale has asked in the past if that township could do anything about this, to which he has been told no. There was a bond on the project but it was released after that portion of the project was done. The supervisors stated that the land was Premiers and they could do with it what they wanted regarding the dirt. Another resident asked if the township can have ordinance’s that state lawns can not be more than 8 inches high, why couldn’t the township make ordinances regarding commercial land. If residents own their land why can’t they do what they want with it? Why are companies allowed to do what they want with their land but residents can’t? Resident John Richmond was denied rezoning of his land from residential to commercial. Richmond owns the home that sits on the corner of Wal-Mart and the park and ride, is surrounded by commercial land but is not allowed to have his rezoned. The land across from Richmonds, which he sold to Charlori Federal, is zoned R-4 which is a residential area that allows for banks because they are not considered commercial. Richmond was told that by zoning his land commercial there may be too much congestion at the intersection. The intersection is already a hot spot for accidents and looks to be an even bigger on in the futur      ");
array_files[74]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/120707pbscbs.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," PAULETTE BENARD SUIT COULD BE SETTLED     ","",""," PAULETTE BENARD SUIT COULD BE SETTLED All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com PAULETTE BENARD SUIT COULD BE SETTLED December 7, 2007 Washington-The long time saga of Paulette Benard might finally be over. Sources in the Washington County Sheriff’s office have revealed that Paulette Benard is close to a settlement with county officials. Though the numbers are not known at press time, Benard might finally win her long time battle against now Commissioner Larry Maggi. Benard has claimed for years that Maggi’s firing of her regarding her allegedly stealing 50 from a visitor to the courthouse was politically motivated. Benard was a strong union supporter and was opposed to Larry Maggi’s election as Sheriff from the start. Even after he took office, Benard lead the union into a series of battles with Maggi, all of which he eventually won. The result was an office that was under increased strain. The situation finally reached a boiling point with the accusation that Benard stole 50 from a visitor to the County courthouse. Benard was fired over the incident after a long series of grievances. The result was that the long time sheriff’s deputy had lost her employment. In June 2002, Crawford, McDonald, Greene LLC claimed on behalf of Benard the following in a letter to Michelle Miller, Director of Human Resources “also be mindful of the fact that domestic terrorism is occurring in the Sheriff’s Department against Ms. Benard. In fact, someone from the Sheriff’s office went to Ms. Benard’s doctor’s office in a threatening manner frightening patients in order to question the doctor’s statement that she was disabled. The doctor was so frightened that he informed Ms. Benard that he was afraid to treat her because he was afraid of the Sheriff’s Department. In the event that this occurs again, I will inform the media immediately. I will also pursue the proper charges for abuse of office and other civil and criminal penalties related to the past action” But in spite of the verbal sparing, the case has no      ");
array_files[75]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/012508tiffanyryan.htm","2009-03-14","17K"," Tiffany Ryan Testifys     ","",""," Tiffany Ryan Testifys All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com TIFFANY RYAN TESTIFYS January 25, 2008 Pittsburgh-With Tiffany Ryan having been seen entering to testify, some speculation has centered that records could be an early focus of the Federal government’s grand jury investigation into former District Attorney John Pettit. The Federal government seized a large number of records from the office of District Attorney John Pettit before he left office. These records could be part of the basis of the case against the long time District Attorney. Pettit, a fixture in Washington County politics, was once one of the most powerful figures in Washington County. Few would dare cross him and only then at their peril. But his power was ended by the combination of a federal investigation in his alleged misdeeds, the bravery of young man to run against him, a huge grassroots movement of citizens which were given a voice by this very publication. The result was a “perfect storm” of politics giving his 28 year old Republican challenger a 2 to 1 victory in a county dominated by Democrats. Ryan, who testified on Wednesday, was alleged to have been very close to Pettit and was the subject of undue attention from the District Attorney. When her grandfather died, it was Pettit that signed her out of the Allegheny County jail and took her to the funeral. This was unusual attention to give to a person with a history of drugs and prostitution arrests. Ryan was a major focus of the Federal investigation into Pettit, though what she had knowledge of is only know to the Federal government and the Grand Jurors. Ryan’s transportation logs were seized from the county jail and from the Washington County Sheriff’s office. Deputy Sheriff Jimmy D’Alessandro was to testify regarding the transportation logs on Wednesday, but he told not to report early Wednesday. Whether he will later report is unknown at this time. The Observer-Reporter has reported that Pettit’s right hand man, Detective Anthony “Bucky” Popeck is       ");
array_files[76]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/050908irey.htm","2009-03-14","22K"," Irey to Divorce     ","",""," Irey to Divorce IREY TO DIVORCE May 9, 2008 Washington-When we marry we expect that we have found our soulmate, the one that will help make our life complete. So it should be with sorrow that any of us look upon the divorce of another. It is outward acknowledgement of the destruction of a dream. Whatever the reason, the pending divorce of Washington County Commissioner Diana Irey will be the subject of much deliberation and discussion. She is oneof the county’s most well known figures and arguably one of the most attractive women in the county. Her face has graced billboards and she has never been shy about combining her sexuality and her conservative values into a potent combination at the ballot box. But all along, she has emphasied her children and her husband, Robert. Many observers looked at their relationship with envy, but those that were in position to look closer believed that this sad day would eventually come. She is claiming that the marriage is “irretrievably broken”. She is seeking reasonable contributions from her husband regarding their three children including post-secondary educational costs. She is seeking that the court enter an order awarding her the payment of legal fees, costs and expenses by her husband as it states “Plaintiff (Irey) is without adequate resources to pay the above-mentioned legal and expert fees and expenses related to this action” She also claims that she “lacks sufficient resources to provide for herself through this litigation” and that she will need alimony to “adequately maintain herself”. Irey also states that her husband’s sources of income and earning capacity are considerably greater than her own. She is also seeking primary custody of their three children. Irey claims that the couple has been seperated since March 13, 2008. Irey’s husband is the head of CLI corporation which has been involved in coal washeries in India, arms contracts in Iraq and business dealings in China. Though it is not public, the estate of Dale Stoffel estimated the worth of CLI in the mi      ");
array_files[77]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/020808whowasit.htm","2009-03-14","17K"," Who Was It?     ","",""," Who Was It? All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com WHO WAS IT? February 8, 2008 Washington-One of the most interesting events of the on-going John Pettit investigation was the day that Tiffany Ryan allegedly threw away a wire tap while visiting former District Attorney John Pettit. Ryan, who is alleged to have carried on a long time affair with the former District Attorney, was at times cooperating with the F.B.I. in their investigation into Pettit. But at some point Ryan changed her decision and turned her back on the FBI. One of the events associated with that event according to an unnamed source was that Ryan threw the wire into a trash can at the Washington County Courthouse. While that alone might not be interesting what allegedly happened next is very interesting. One of the assistant District Attorneys is believed to have fished that wire out of the trash to make sure that it was not discovered. But who did it? Speculation has been rampant for over a year as to which of the Assistant District Attorneys was both brave enough to do it and also secretly working with the Federal Government. This same individual allegedly helped keep some key documents from being shredded after the investigation became public. It is believed that they removed the important documents from a pile of documents that were to be destroyed before that could take place. These documents are believed to have made their way into the hands of the F.B.I. Insiders have informed us that Pettit became increasingly worried about someone in his office betraying him. He knew they existed but could not discover their identity. As these individuals are still likely to be working for the current District Attorney’s office and bravely risked their own lives to act in the publics interest, we will not speculate on who it might have been. The fact that someone was brave enough to act when needed is all that really needs to be known until that person wishes to come forward. OTHER ARTICLES Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport       ");
array_files[78]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041808jail.htm","2009-03-14","22K"," Irey-Toprani call for Jail Investigation     ","",""," Irey-Toprani call for Jail Investigation Irey-Toprani call for Jail Investigation The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 Washington-Washington County Solicitor Lynn DeHaven put it best “It is the Elephant in the room” referring to the obvious question of what should be done by the county in preparation for the potential storm over problems in the Washington County Jail. DeHaven was responding to questions by Commissioner Diana Irey, who boldly asked “What resources might be available for an independent investigation” regarding the Washington County Jail. Irey was concerned over the possibility that at the least procedures were not followed over the years, in particular in the wake of a Federal Grand Jury investigating former District Attorney John Pettit. But Irey’s very question was attacked by Commissioner James Bracken Burns. Burns referred to the allegations arising from the Washington County Jail as “Street talk and rumors”. Burns said this in spite of the fact that FBI agents and PA State Troopers have seized documents from the jail, employees have been subpoenaed regarding issues surrounding the jail, and years of allegations not only from prisoners but former employees. Warden Joe Pelzer sat throughout the meeting redfaced. Pelzer is one of many individuals that county reformers are calling for the resignation of in the wake of the Pettit scandal. Commissioner Larry Maggi said nothing, in spite of mounting evidence and allegations that lead to Dehaven’s comments “The Elephant in the room”. Maggi is a former Sheriff and after Burns, the longest serving member of the prison board. Insiders have reported that Maggi has stuck to a position of not acting in any way to look into the problems in the jail. By his silence, he was apparently supporting the position of the status quo. After the meeting, District Attorney Steve Toprani sided with Irey, agreeing that her call for an investigation was correct. Irey apparently surprised her fellow Commissioners with her moves by bringing the issue out of the darkness and      ");
array_files[79]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/020808pettit.htm","2009-03-14","18K"," HES BACK     ","",""," HES BACK All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com HES BACK February 8, 2008 Washington-Embattled former District Attorney John C. Pettit has decided to return from his golfing trip to New Zealand to fight the potential federal charges against him. Pettit, the longest serving District Attorney in Washington County history has been the subject of an Federal investigation for over four years. Chief amongst the potential charges are that Pettit arranged for preferential treatment in exchange for political and possible monetary favors. Speculation has settled on a group of individuals including well known private detective Michael Tarbuck, Car Dealer Vince LoCastro and a series of well known prostitutes and drug dealers. One of this petty criminals is a female named Tiffany Ryan. Ryan has already testified before the Grand Jury, which will be reconvening shortly, about her relationship with Petitt. Pettit has been alleged to have signed Ryan out of jail on numerous occasions including once to go to her grandfather’s funeral, a man that was a friend of Pettit in the past. While the federal government and most sources have confirmed that there was a possible physical relationship between the two individuals, Pettit has consistently told friends and associates that he was just helping out Ryan. Other possible problems for Pettit have arisen out of the 2003 Election Day Massacre, which called into question both Pettit’s skill as an attorney and his moral standing. While he has acted disgusted at every moment when asked, Pettit was considered a suspect for a period in the homicide. Many within the general public still seem to associate Pettit with the homicide even if there is no evidence to link him to it. Other issues that are lurking for Pettit are the use or misuse of Drug Task Force money and staff. Whether these allegation will become part of a state or federal case remains to be seen. Finally, Pettit could be facing a series of allegations related to taking drug dealers and prostitutes fro      ");
array_files[80]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/041408naumoff.htm","2009-03-14","24K"," NAUMOFF RESIGNS FROM PETERS COUNCIL     ","",""," NAUMOFF RESIGNS FROM PETERS COUNCIL NAUMOFF RESIGNS FROM PETERS COUNCIL By Peter Glasser The Weekly Recorder April 14, 2008 Bill Naumoff submitted his resignation from Peters Township Council effective with the April 14th meeting. He recently started a new job that requires him to travel to Ohio frequently, and attending meetings regularly would have been impossible. Never being one to promise the people something he couldn’t deliver, he packed it in. Prior to becoming a councilman, Bill was active in the McMurray Rotary, serving as its president for one year. His primary support when he first emerged on the local political scene came from the youth sports crowd, in which he had also been very active. While Bill was one of the driving forces behind numerous improvements to the township’s sports fields over his eight years on the council, and pushed for the building of a community recreation center, he grew beyond simply being an advocate for sports in the township. His greatest moments as a councilman came in the wake of the terrorist attacks of 2001. Like most of us, Bill Naumoff yearned for something productive to do for his country at that moment. He first put together a Rally For America. Instead of hogging the limelight to himself, as many politicians would have done, Bill assembled a number of prominent local leaders to do most of the speaking on a chilly November evening in 2001, even reaching across the political aisle to US Army Major Lew Irwin, a prominent local Democrat. Peters schools provided choruses of children to sing patriotic songs. To my knowledge, it was the largest gathering in town ever assembled by a Peters official. It became next to impossible to purchase U.S. flags locally in the weeks after the terrorists struck. It bothered Bill that our town’s main streets were virtually devoid of American flags, and he wanted help local residents obtain flags for their homes. Working with a few others, he found a manufacturer that would take a direct order for a large quantity. An order was placed      ");
array_files[81]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/020108fixation.htm","2009-03-14","16K"," Oral Fixation Dominates Activites     ","",""," Oral Fixation Dominates Activites All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com ORAL FIXATION DOMINATES ACTIVITIES February 2, 2008 Washington- On Monday, Publisher Cody Knotts was a guest on the Marty Griffin show on KDKA Talk Radio. The topic was the recent actions and activities of former District Attorney John Pettit. One question that has arisen is how would the FBI have wiretapped the girls that were allegedly having sexual activity with Pettit. Where would they hide the wires? But one of the things that has come forward from sources close to many of the girls was that Pettit liked to receive oral stimulation from the females instead of more traditional sexual activity. The result is that the FBI could have easily hidden wires on the females without risking their discovery. This could be the reason that FBI was able to allegedly tape some of the various sessions between Pettit and the girls. One reason for this activity is the lessening of the potential risk for STD (Sexually transmitted diseases), though these are still possible if there are open sores in the mouth or on the sexual organs. Other possibilities focus on the obvious power relationship in such activities and the feeling of power that male would receive from such actions. If the federal government indicts Pettit there is the possibility that these tapes will become public ant and the whole truth will become known. OTHER ARTICLES Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Visit New Zealand Pettit Takes Everything But the Lamps Tarbuck Confirms that He was Subpoenaed to Testify Against Pettit Source: Pettit is in New Zealand Source States Tarbuck Wants Immunity to Tell Whole Story Tarbuck Hires Greggs Defense Attorney “CALL ME DADDY” Sources: Pettit liked the girls to call him “Daddy” Oral Fixation Dominates Activites Who Was It? Tiffany Ryan Testifys Hes Back     ");
array_files[82]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/050208wash.htm","2009-03-14","27K"," I.T. in the CiTi     ","",""," I.T. in the CiTi T. in the CiTi In the Information Age, “I.T.” Doesn’t Mean “Inform the Taxpayers” By Allyson White The Weekly Recorder May 2, 2008 [Washington, PA] – It’s quiet at City Hall this week while Mayor Spossey is wining and dining in Las Vegas and Councilwoman Ullom returns from her month long travels throughout Europe. Though it’s been quiet, some visitors and employees of City Hall appear “surprisingly” more pleasant this week while questions quietly pop up about the motives and use of executive sessions by some City officials. Mayor Spossey and Councilwoman Ullom supported hiring Lynn Galluze as a full-time employee with an annual compensation package of almost 75,000 that includes healthcare. In addition, Spossey and Ullom wanted to recognize her as an “18 year” employee (meaning that she would enjoy the perks AND PENSION of a person who has been a City employee for almost 20 years). All paid for by the taxpayers. Why is this and will we ever really know? Ms. Galluze has been a long-time independent contractor providing information technology services to Washington. She receives a 1099 (self-employed) tax form from the City and sets her own hours to work with clients. Self-employed contractors enjoy the benefit, in order to avoid paying as much in taxes, of writing off expenses such as health insurance premiums, gasoline, travel, equipment and many other expenses that a regular working individual cannot. Some question if Ms. Galluze’s long-time support for Mayor Spossey had anything to do with the hiring attempt. Many employees and friends, all of which are said to be close to the Mayor, have praised her and expressed concern when three other members of City Council decided that it wasn’t in the best interest of the taxpayers at this time. Why would some offer such a lucrative benefit package after raising taxes so high and why didn’t the public know anything about this? This action was stopped in its tracks by a 3 – 2 vote with Councilman Blackhurst, Faust and Staniszewski standing up against i      ");
array_files[83]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/020108daddy.htm","2009-03-14","17K"," CALL ME DADDY     ","",""," CALL ME DADDY All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com “CALL ME DADDY” Sources: Pettit liked the girls to call him “Daddy” February 1, 2008 Washington-The never ending ugly tale of former District Attorney John C. Pettit continues to shock and amaze everyone that it is hearing it. But at least two sources have confirmed that one of the more shocking parts of the tale. Sources for the past year have told The Weekly Recorder that former District Attorney John Pettit liked to have the various girls that were brought for sexual favors to call him “Daddy”. Pettit has been part of a firestorm of issues that have arisen in response to a federal grand jury investigation into his behavior. One of the center points of the investigation is that John Pettit exchanged or coerced sexual favors from prostitutes, bad check writers and other petty criminals. Chief amongst those that allegedly were forced into giving sexual favors was Tiffany Ryan, a well known petty criminal. Ryan, who has already testified before the Federal Grand Jury has been the focal point of the federal investigation into Pettit’s activities. She and others were allegedly coerced into performing sexual favors for the former District Attorney which according to our sources including having to call him “Daddy”. Given the allegations that have recently arisen including the possibility that Pettit himself drove the girls to crack houses to buy drugs (which were reported by the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review), every activity of the District Attorney is coming under scrutiny. But if the allegations from our sources are true, why would Pettit want the girls to call him “Daddy”? Was it inspired by the obvious age difference between the elder Pettit and the twenty and thirtysomething girls? Was it a sexual fetish? Was it simple sexual depravation? Pettit, who was on his second marriage, has always had the reputation of a womanizer. But the recent behavior has even shocked the most brazen of the local political sect. One of the most common comme      ");
array_files[84]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/031408fbi.htm","2009-03-14","20K"," FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People     ","",""," FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 Washington-Federal investigations and evidence are normally airtight and prepared before seeking an indictment. It is for that reason that many in the local bar association are privately asking “Why are the Feds grabbing more computers and documents?” One possiblity is that the federal investigation is expanding as privately promised to so many seeking real reform in Washington County. For the past few years, sources have stated that the local investigation will be like “New Orleans and Youngstown”. In both cities nearly a hundred elected officials, attorneys and police officers were indicted. Could the new record seizures be part of a larger investigation? Our sources say Yes! Federal investigators are centering their investigation according to our sources on the following positions: Two judges Two State Troopers Former and current employees of the District Attorney’s office At least two local attorneys Other county employees including some at the county jail Whether the federal investigation into Washington County will bear any proof will remain to be seen over the next few months. Regardless the story of John Petitt will dominate the headlines of Washington County for the months to come. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor Who is Joining the Sinking Ship? City Beat, 3/21/08 April/May is Apparent Deadline for Pettit Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County City Beat, 3/14/08 Former President Visits W & J Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary Pettit Moves Back Home FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People Sports Articles Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Sports Beat, 3/14/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory Sports Beat, 3/21/08 Wraslin Round Up Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/7/08 En      ");
array_files[85]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/012508tarbuckattorney.htm","2009-03-14","16K"," TARBUCK HIRES GREGGS DEFENSE ATTORNEY     ","",""," TARBUCK HIRES GREGGS DEFENSE ATTORNEY All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com TARBUCK HIRES GREGGS DEFENSE ATTORNEY January 25, 2008 Washington-Sources have confirmed that Michael Tarbuck will be represented in negotiations with the Federal Government by famed defense Attorney Mark Lancaster. Lancaster is well known locally for winning the first murder acquittal in over 30 years in Washington County for Gerald Gregg. Gregg was the accused hitman in the infamous Election Day Massacre, but Lancaster’s spirited and well prepared defense lead to the surprising acquittal. Lancaster by virtue of his previous involvement in the Gregg case is well informed on the situation surrounding John Pettit and the alleged corruption in the former District Attorney’s office, so his choice by Tarbuck would appear to be a smart decision. Whether the Federal Government will deal remains to be seen. OTHER ARTICLES Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Visit New Zealand Pettit Takes Everything But the Lamps Tarbuck Confirms that He was Subpoenaed to Testify Against Pettit Source: Pettit is in New Zealand Source States Tarbuck Wants Immunity to Tell Whole Story Tarbuck Hires Greggs Defense Attorney “CALL ME DADDY” Sources: Pettit liked the girls to call him “Daddy” Oral Fixation Dominates Activites Who Was It? Tiffany Ryan Testifys Hes Back     ");
array_files[86]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/032108pettit.htm","2009-03-14","21K"," Pettit Moves Back Home     ","",""," Pettit Moves Back Home Pettit Moves Back Home The Weekly Recorder March 21, 2008 Canton Township-Former District Attorney John Petitt has moved back home sort of. Pettit has moved back onto the property that he shared with his estranged wife Sandra. Pettit has two homes on the property and has moved back into the older of the two homes in Canton Township. The problem is that friends of his wife, Sandra are worried about the uncomfortable situation that his return could create for her with him living so close again. Sandra Pettit is attempting to divorce her husband, the former District Attorney and father to her two sons. The divorce has become public due to the ongoing federal investigation and grand jury related to the alleged misdeeds of her husband. Sandra has been credited by many observers as bravely standing up to her husband, once the most feared man in Washington County before he was defeated by a 28 year old newcomer, Steve Toprani for District Attorney. Pettit is being accused by the Federal Government of actually taking female prisoners from the Washington County Jail, transporting them to “Crack houses” for drugs and then allegedly having sex with them. One prisoner in particular, Tiffany Ryan, was the subject of extensive investigation by the F.B.I. “We are all worried about her” one friend of Sandra Pettit stated. Friends have also worried about her safety given the large number of enemies that her husband has collected over the years. Pettit himself stayed in seclusion outside of Washington County during the period following the infamous “Election Day Massacre” in which Fredrick Brilla, a public enemy of Petitts and Martin Brahler, were murdered execution style. Petitt consistenly stated that he was staying in seclusion due to threats against his life. The divorce could be more messy because John Petitt is quickly losing control of a series of properties that represented a great deal of the couples accummlated wealth. Some observers believe that John Petitt is losing the properties to insure th      ");
array_files[87]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/032108cb.htm","2009-03-14","22K"," City Beat     ","",""," City Beat City Beat By George Murin The Weekly Recorder March 21, 2008 Washington- On March 13, 2008 a new record was probably set for the quickest city council meeting: One minute and 35 seconds. The only items that were brought up were; appointing Nick Dubina and Dan Petrola to the City of Washington’s Planning Commission; and entering into an agreement with Isiminger’s for the city’s towing contract. Before the council meeting the city held a meeting explaining the change in real estate taxes. The city adopted the full assessed value of the property for taxing purposes. Mayor Sonny Spossey spoke and answered questions for 40 minutes, while the rest of city council and the city solicitor sat at a table to his right, except for Councilman Matt Staniszewski, who sat in the audience. Staniszewski reminded everyone many times during the meeting that he was opposed to changing the way the city assessed property taxes and was against raising taxes at all. There were 22 people at this meeting. Only 11 were citizens not affiliated with city government. The mayor looked uncomfortable as he explained that now the tax appeals on property will be less since there is no argument of which percentage to use in determining the taxable amount of the assessment. The State allows is 13.3% while the county allows 25%, this is based on real estate sale since the last count assessment in 1985. Now the pre-determined ratio will be 100%. The mayor stated, “The (Tax) increase had nothing to do with the switching to the pre-determined ratio. It was necessitated due to the 1.2 million deficit that we (council) inherited…Switching was revenue neutral...everything we received last year remains the same (before the tax increase)…On February 7, 2008, we thought the only way to address the issues of the city, without going bankrupt or going to court for additional monies…was to increase taxes by 30 mils.” If this seems confusing; it should be. While talking with Lane Turturice, the city solicitor, he showed me a huge book dealing with the       ");
array_files[88]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/012508tarbuckimmunity.htm","2009-03-14","16K"," SOURCE STATES TARBUCK WANTS IMMUNITY TO TELL WHOLE STORY     ","",""," SOURCE STATES TARBUCK WANTS IMMUNITY TO TELL WHOLE STORY All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com SOURCE STATES TARBUCK WANTS IMMUNITY TO TELL WHOLE STORY January 25, 2008 Washington-A source very close to Tarbuck family has informed the Weekly Recorder that Tarbuck is negotiating for immunity from the Federal Government in exchange for his willingness to turn evidence against everyone and everybody involved in the alleged corruption of the Washington County Courthouse. The source stated “Tarbuck is going to take everyone down” referring to the results of Tarbuck’s testimony. Few question that whatever Tarbuck has to say will be powerful and could be aimed at more than District Attorney John Pettit. One source friendly to Michael Tarbuck stated that Tarbuck could be “one of the reasons that this county finally gets cleaned up”. Tarbuck’s tale could be very interesting. He has been both an apparent close friend and ally to John Pettit and Gerald Gregg, who was acquitted of the infamous Election Day Massacre in 2003. He has been in a position to know the most potentially dangerous and explosive secrets in the past six years. It remains to be seen whether the federal government will grant immunity, but if Tarbuck’s tale is as powerful as expected, the chances will increase greatly. OTHER ARTICLES Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Visit New Zealand Pettit Takes Everything But the Lamps Tarbuck Confirms that He was Subpoenaed to Testify Against Pettit Source: Pettit is in New Zealand Source States Tarbuck Wants Immunity to Tell Whole Story Tarbuck Hires Greggs Defense Attorney GTX08574 8 Oral Fixation Dominates Activites Who Was It? Tiffany Ryan Testifys Hes Back     ");
array_files[89]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011808pinz.htm","2009-03-14","19K"," SOURCE: PETTIT IS IN NEW ZEALAND     ","",""," SOURCE: PETTIT IS IN NEW ZEALAND All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com SOURCE: PETTIT IS IN NEW ZEALAND January 18, 2008 Washington-Sources have confirmed that former District Attorney John Petitt is on his golfing trip in New Zealand. The once powerful District Attorney has according to our sources taken a trip down under to golf, while staying at a property owned by a fellow district attorney friend. Pettit, who had numerous friends within the state’s law enforcement community, apparently has finally taken up a personal friend on the idea of taking a trip to New Zealand according to our source. But most observers are wondering if Pettit will remain in New Zealand if a Grand Jury’s testimony appears to be heading towards an indictment on January 22nd. Sources have told us the current grand jury is a newly seated one and that past grand juries that have heard evidence might have been only been seated to hear grand jury evidence. If the current grand jury is being held to indict the long time District Attorney, many political observers and former close allies of Pettit believe that he will be unlikely to return. But Pettit has made every indication that he will return to the United States. When he recently moved out of his office, he moved all of his furniture to his former office down at the corner of West Chestnut and Beau. He has also made steps towards creating a more permanent residence than his apartment in the city of Washington. Pettit’s move to an apartment was made necessary by his estrangement from his wife of over 30 years Sandra Pettit. Though little information is available, Pettit and his wife have been having hard times for the past few years according to a variety of sources. Most observers believe that the two are likely to head towards a divorce in the near future. The question remains though, will John Pettit return to Washington County if he would be indicted? Though Washington County has been his home for his entire life, Pettit would appear to have little reason      ");
array_files[90]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/012508tarbucksubpoenaed.htm","2009-03-14","17K"," TARBUCK CONFIRMS THAT HE WAS SUBPOENAED TO TESTIFY AGAINST PETTIT     ","",""," TARBUCK CONFIRMS THAT HE WAS SUBPOENAED TO TESTIFY AGAINST PETTIT All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com TARBUCK CONFIRMS THAT HE WAS SUBPOENAED TO TESTIFY AGAINST PETTIT January 25, 2008 Washington-Confirming information already reported in the Weekly Recorder, well known Private Investigator Michael D. Tarbuck confirmed on Wednesday that he was subpoenaed to testify in the Federal Grand Jury dealing with the actions of former District Attorney John Pettit. Tarbuck told the Weekly Recorder that he wanted to set the record straight and end any rumors that were circulating regarding his actions. Tarbuck has been increasingly concerned about the effect that negative publicity has had on his rebuilding business. Once worth an estimated 10 million dollars, Tarbuck lost most of his fortune in the wake of a series of arrests and high profile articles dealing with his relationship with his long time wife, Mary Lynn. But as the years have passed, Tarbuck moved his business into the City of Washington and out of South Strabane. The result has been a long and slow rebuilding process for a businessman that was once one of the area’s most successful. Tarbuck relationship with District Attorney John Pettit has been the subject of a great deal of scrutiny over the past decade. From Pettit’s apparent reluctance to prosecute the various charges brought by South Strabane police, to the infamous Tarbuck letter (published previously in this newspaper) no one has been quite sure of the nature of the relationship. Tarbuck was scheduled to testify at 1 pm on Tuesday, but was delayed till either later this week or early next week according to a source close to the Tarbuck family. The old family friend was certain that Tarbuck would testify the beginning of next week at the latest. Tarbuck has continued to be elusive as to just what his testimony might be at the federal grand jury, though many observers believe that it will center on possible payments to the District Attorney as alluded to in the infamous Ta      ");
array_files[91]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/010408pte.htm","2009-03-14","16K"," PETTIT TAKES EVERYTHING BUT THE LAMPS     ","",""," PETTIT TAKES EVERYTHING BUT THE LAMPS All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com PETTIT TAKES EVERYTHING BUT THE LAMPS January 4, 2008 Washington-Former District Attorney John Pettit did not want to leave anything to his successor according to county sources. Last week, John Pettit made sure that everything but two lamps was taken from his office. Included amongst the items that Pettit took with him as he left office were his desk, every picture and even the lampshades and lightbulbs from his two lamps according to Commissioner Larry Maggi. Bedillions Used Furniture came retrieved the multiple items from the District Attorney’s office and many have wondered if the items are now for purchase at the well known furniture store. Pettit has still not spoken to Toprani since before his smashing defeat at the hands of a 28 year newcomer. Pettit is the subject of Federal Investigation first reported by this newspaper last year. He has consistently denied wrongdoing, but his safe was seized last month by both FBI and State police investigators. Well known for his vindictiveness, most individuals were not surprised that Pettit would neither speak or leave even a lightbulb for his successor. But county officials seem prepared to help the young district attorney to handle the aftermath of the Pettit removal. OTHER ARTICLES Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Visit New Zealand Pettit Takes Everything But the Lamps Tarbuck Confirms that He was Subpoenaed to Testify Against Pettit Source: Pettit is in New Zealand Source States Tarbuck Wants Immunity to Tell Whole Story Tarbuck Hires Greggs Defense Attorney “CALL ME DADDY” Sources: Pettit liked the girls to call him “Daddy” Oral Fixation Dominates Activites Who Was It? Tiffany Ryan Testifys Hes Back     ");
array_files[92]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/010408ptvnz.htm","2009-03-14","18K"," SOURCES: PETTIT TO VISIT NEW ZEALAND     ","",""," SOURCES: PETTIT TO VISIT NEW ZEALAND All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com SOURCES: PETTIT TO VISIT NEW ZEALAND January 4, 2008 Washington-Sources have confirmed that former District Attorney John Pettit will be visiting New Zealand for at least two weeks starting on January 10th, 2008. As previously reported, Pettit has sought an expedited passport for a trip overseas in the wake of a federal grand jury. Pettit is believed to be taking the trip as part of a golf vacation in the wake of his stunning defeat by Republican Steve Toprani in November. But is golf really the reason for a trip to a foreign nation right before a Federal Grand Jury will meet to examine evidence possibly against the long time District Attorney? Most political observers at the swearing in ceremony for Steve Toprani did not believe that Golf was the real reason for Pettit’s trip. “John Pettit doesn’t do anything without a reason” said foe and Commissioner Larry Maggi. It was a sentiment that was echoed over and over again by the individuals that had supported Steve Toprani. But if there is a reason, why New Zealand? The island nation has an extradition treaty dating from 1970 with the United States, though it does prohibit the extradition of anyone facing the death penalty without assurances that the United States will not seek the death penalty. It also is not a signature to a series of Hague conventions dealing with prisoners and does not allow the extradition of individuals that are being extradited for solely political purposes. American attempts at extradition have been widely successful, though slow at times from New Zealand. A possibility is the fact that individuals from New Zealand and Australia can easily visit a series of small island states in the pacific without passports. The result could be that someone visiting New Zealand could disappear into the Pacific states rather easily if they wanted. From these smaller states like Nauru, they could establish new identities. But does John Pettit have other      ");
array_files[93]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/120707tarbuck.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," SOURCE: MICHAEL TARBUCK TO TESTIFY     ","",""," SOURCE: MICHAEL TARBUCK TO TESTIFY All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com SOURCE: MICHAEL TARBUCK TO TESTIFY December 7, 2007 Washington-Well known private investigator Michael D. Tarbuck is scheduled to testify before a Federal Grand Jury according to one source close to Tarbuck. Though Tarbuck on Wednesday would neither confirm or deny that he was scheduled to appear for the grand jury, his appearance would not be a surprise. As we have previously printed, Tarbuck was the subject of a great deal of questions regarding his relationship with District Attorney John Pettit. In the past, Tarbuck was accused of a series of domestic violence issues, but the majority of them were failed to be prosecuted by Pettit. Questions arose regarding the failure of Pettit to prosecute the charges against Tarbuck. Eventually, Tarbuck did serve time in jail for one of the charges, but only after the media coverage of his situation had helped cost him his million dollar security empire. The result was though Tarbuck maintained his private detective license, he was a shadow financially of his former self. The letter at the bottom of this article, was presented as evidence in the Gerald Gregg trial by Gregg’s defense team. The letter appears to allude to possible bribery of District Attorney John Pettit, but whether this is part of the Grand Jury investigation is unknown at this time. Tarbuck has quietly rebuilt his business in the aftermath of the past scandals, though he has had the shadow of the FBI investigation hanging over his current operations. But sources are also stating that Tarbuck will not be alone. A group of jail guards are expected to also testify and our sources are stating that the jail warden himself might be called to testify. It is well known that the Commissioners office and the Sheriff’s office will have to send representatives to verify records that have already been seized by federal investigators. One law enforcement source previously informed us that it was unlikely that Tarbuck       ");
array_files[94]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/120707names.htm","2009-03-14","13K"," THE NAMES REVEALED     ","",""," THE NAMES REVEALED All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com THE NAMES REVEALED December 7, 2007 Washington- The Weekly Recorder has uncovered the entire list of the JailHouse 13 that the FBI has requested records pertaining to. Why the FBI has chosen this list of 13 people is not known at this time, but speculation is only likely to run rampant in the wake of the entire list being made public. Tiffany Ryan- Well known prostitute and drug user. Currently housed in Muncy, Pa. Alleged to be the consort of District Attorney John Pettit. Ryan has actually fallen asleep before Magistrate Spence according to the Observer-Reporter. Ryan was close to Sgt. David Bradley of the Washington City Police. Bradley has met with and talked to the FBI during their investigation of District Attorney John Pettit. Holli Zaricky-Another well known criminal. Best known as the girlfriend of Dirk Barfield at the time of the Brilla homicide. Zaricky was present on a regular basis during the homicide trial of Gerald Gregg, who was eventually acquitted, of the double homicide of Fred Brilla and Martin Brahler. Tony Cohen- Cohen was a suspect in the double homicide of Fred Brilla and Martin Brahler. He eventually accepted a deal with District Attorney Pettit in exchange for testifying against Gerald Gregg. Pettit’s case was predicated on the idea that Cohen was “muscle” for Gregg to assist in the murder of Brilla. Cohen has a long history of drug use and violent crime. Dirk Barfield Sr.-Barfield was according to his own testimony present at the infamous Price’s Tavern to help Mary Mahoney roll Brilla for money. He claimed that upon seeing Gerald Gregg and Tony Cohen being at the bar to execute Brilla and bartender Brahler, he and Mahoney fled the scene. Barfield claims that he spoke to an unidentified male in a truck before entering the bar. The unidentified male allegedly told Barfield that “everyone is inside, they will blame on it on Pettit”. Barfield agreed to be a witness for Pettit in the case against Gregg. B      ");
array_files[95]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/112107fbisd.htm","2009-03-14","11K"," FBI SEIZES DOCUMENTS     ","",""," FBI SEIZES DOCUMENTS All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com FBI SEIZES DOCUMENTS By Sarah Ostovic and Cody Knotts November 21, 2007 The fate of outgoing Washington County District Attorney John Pettit is in the hands of the United States District Attorney’s Office. Early Tuesday morning, a subpoena was issued requesting documents and other items from the District Attorney’s Courthouse Office. The subpoena was initially served upon the County Commissioners because the office is located within the Courthouse. According to County Solicitors Mary Lynn Drewitz and J. Lynn DeHaven, a 10 am subpoena was issued upon the Washington County Commissioners. Since Commissioners Bracken Burns and Larry Maggi were in Harrisburg on business, the matter was referred to Drewitz and DeHaven as being the legal representatives of the County. Drewitz said that the County complied “pursuant to the subpoena.” County Commissioner Diana Irey was informed of the subpoena and gave the following statement to the press “It is based on a grand jury investigation”, though Irey seemed visably happy. Irey suppported the anti corruption movement that helped defeat Pettit two weeks prior. Following the delivery of the subpoena, which was issued Assistant District Attorney Charles “Todd” Eberle, state and federal law enforcement officers began collecting materials from Pettit’s office. Several undercover agents and members of the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the collection of materials called for in the subpeona. Among items seized in the nearly 5 hour search were more than 6 boxes of documents, three bags, a CPU, and a large safe with the words “District Attorney” lettered across the top. One of the highlights of the day was when an undercover agent for the FBI walked out of the office wearing latex gloves. Another interesting moment was when a box of files was brought over to the District Attorney’s office from Judge Paul Pozonsky’s office. The computer that was removed was unlikely an assistant District Attorney      ");
array_files[96]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/112107pttgp.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," SOURCE: PETTIT TRIED TO GET PASSPORT MONDAY     ","",""," SOURCE: PETTIT TRIED TO GET PASSPORT MONDAY All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com SOURCE: PETTIT TRIED TO GET PASSPORT MONDAY Novmeber 21, 2007 Washington-A source has informed The Weekly Recorder that District Attorney John Pettit attempted to gain a passport on Monday from the Washington Post Office. According to our source, Pettit was in line at nearly 5 pm and requested information on how to get a passport. US Post Offices are one of the various locations where a person can apply in person for expedited service. Expedited service makes it possible for a person to receive a passport in about three weeks. Pettit was unable to start the process because the office that processes the form was already closed. Some people have questioned why Pettit would have been so foolish to have applied for a passport in a county in which he is easily recognized. Pettit has been under investigation by the FBI for years and on Tuesday had his safe seized by the FBI and Pennsylvania State Police. Pettit is believed to be one of the subjects of a Grand Jury. Whether an indictment will be handed down on from the Grand Jury is unknown. One of the most likely scenarios for a Pettit indictment is on allegations of case fixing. Pettit is famed for deal making in politics and many people have believed that it is possible that his dealmaking could have extended into his office. Pettit has publicly stated that the FBI was no longer interested in investigating him because they received “bad information”. This public statement was made in the spring when he announced his run for reelection. But apparently Pettit has been misinformed. UPDATE: Pettit was seen at the Washington Post Office again on Wednesday, November 21, 2007.     ");
array_files[97]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/011108southstrabane.htm","2009-03-14","14K"," SOUTH STRABANE’S COWARDLY LION     ","",""," SOUTH STRABANE’S COWARDLY LION All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com SOUTH STRABANE’S COWARDLY LION By Judi Panasik January 11, 2008 If there’s one thing to be said about South Strabane’s Supervisors, they never fail to disappoint. With the exit of Lou DePretis from the board residents were hoping for a new and enlightened way of voting to emerge. That didn’t happen. At the January 7, Reorganization Meeting Chairman Bob Koman took over the role as the third Musketeer supporting Tony Zelenka and Bob Hollick on most issues. He also picked up the role of Cowardly Lion, regarding a vote on Centax. Supervisor Tom Moore came out of the gate full force and for the people starting with his appeal to the board not to vote for Centax as the new tax collector. South Strabane put the cart before the horse last year. They voted to go with Centax in November, but could not officially vote them on as tax collectors until the January reorganization meeting. Koman, who was and is chairman of the board did not sign the agreement with Centax in December, Hollick did. So at the reorganization meeting Moore nominated Lillian Trautman to be the tax collector and was seconded by Ed Mazur. Through the discussions and most of the meeting Koman barely looked out at the residents in the audience. Koman had voted against Centax initially in November. Moore pleaded with all those who were against it before to stick with their original votes. It is reported that Koman’s fear was over the township being sued by Centax. But according to Attorney Dennis Makel at the regular South Strabane Supervisors meeting on January 8, the new board can’t be bound to the decisions of the old board. He also stated that there was enough case law that would have more than likely supported South Strabane in rescinding their agreement with Centax. If Centax would have chose to sue they would more than likely not have prevailed. But the information came too late and South Strabane, thanks to Hollick, DePretis, Zelenka, and now Koman, i      ");
array_files[98]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/111607sst.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," Will South Strabane Strike out again with Trinity     ","",""," Will South Strabane Strike out again with Trinity All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com Will South Strabane Strike out again with Trinity By Judi Panasik November 16, 2007 Rumors are flying like foul balls as to whether or not Trinity will strike a deal with South Strabane to use their new 300,000 ball field for the next 25 years. According to sources nothing that was in South Strabanes proposal was what the Trinity representatives, Gerry Chambers, Sam Puglisi, and Denise McCreath, talked about with the South Strabane Supervisors Bob Hollick and Tony Zelenka. Was it the Three Stooges or Abbott and Costello that misunderstood what was said? Regardless Trinity has completely rewritten the agreement. According to Hollick at the South Strabane meeting that he and Zelenka made the proposal at there was nothing that was going to change. He was unwilling to listen to requests of other supervisors and said this was it. Well “this” was struck out and sent to the showers. Upon reviewing a tape of the South Strabane meeting Trinity School Board became distraught at the attitudes and statements made by the supervisors and decided to redo the contract. Zelenka and Hollick are rumored to have a copy in their possessions but have not disclosed it to all other members of the board. How can they vote on something that has completely changed? And at the last school board meeting it was brought to the attention of the board that the current girls softball coach was not in favor of using the South Strabane field because it was out of the way for them and for traveling teams. So now what is South Strabane going to do with their 300,000 field of dreams? Hey Tony, what happened to “if we build it they will come?”     ");
array_files[99]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/sstwp102607.htm","2009-03-14","12K"," South Strabane Supervisors Blindly review Budget     ","",""," South Strabane Supervisors Blindly review Budget All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com South Strabane Supervisors Blindly review Budget By Judi Panasik October 26, 2007 I question the math skills and financial expertise of the current South Strabane board of supervisors. We are all well aware of the questionable motives of many of the supervisors but there are at least two current issues that residents need to be aware of and fight. On the agenda for the October 23 board meeting was a presentation by Central Tax. The same company that Trinity uses and residents have complained about. I have yet to hear one positive thing from taxpayers here or in other areas that use Central Tax. And from personal experience I question the safety of our private information in their hands. I have been to the offices myself and seen private information in the open. I have dealt with rude employees and been inconvenienced by the location of the office and times they are open. I have never heard a resident complain about South Strabanes tax office or its employees. But for some reason appointed, not elected, Supervisor Lou DePretis took it upon himself to approach Central Tax. One has to ask why a man with only 3 meetings left on the board went out of his way to bring in this group. The board claims it is to save money, but doesn’t seem concerned about what the residents want. But even scarier than losing our tax office the township is planning on giving our Parks and Recreation Department what is equivalent to what the tax collecting employees in one office are making. And if this board of genius wasn’t so focused on the parks maybe they would see and question the obvious issues surrounding their budget. First of all last year Parks and Recreation had an excess of carry over around 12,000 but wanted to increase their budget to around 43-45,000. I believe they were given a budget of about 36,000. Now suddenly this year the budget is over 50,000. One of the items I noticed that had gone up significantly w      ");
array_files[100]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/ssfield101207.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," An Update on South Strabanes Field of Schemes 10-12-07     ","",""," An Update on South Strabanes Field of Schemes 10-12-07 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com An Update on South Strabane’s “Field of Schemes” By Judi Panasik October 12, 2007 Thank goodness for technology, because of my video camera Trinity School Board was able to view for themselves the comments made by South Strabane supervisors. According to sources Trinity was not happy with what they saw and heard, but will they do anything about it? According to several sources Trinity School Board members stated that they never said they wouldn’t negotiate the terms of the contract. But at the South Strabane meeting in September Supervisors Bob Hollick and Tony Zelenka said they would not be changing anything from what they discussed with Trinity. Trinity also said they wouldn’t want a 9- month escape clause as Supervisor Zelenka stated would be put in to protect South Strabane. According to a Trinity School Board member there was never anything discussed regarding any out clause. So why did Zelenka tell the other supervisors and the residents there was? Trinity was also upset about the attitudes of some residents and supervisors that made negative comments against Trinity School Board. Most of those comments were regarding the continuing issue of Central Tax that the residents strongly oppose. But is Trinity so desperate for a ball field that they will agree to anything? Just like the TIF they really don’t seem to understand what they are getting themselves into. And with Canton Township also building a field that may be closer to the schools, why would Trinity sign a 25 year contract with South Strabane? One source said that within the last year one of the school board members contacted Canton to discuss using their proposed field. But once again one of the negotiators for the school board is from South Stranbane, who is reportedly a cronie of Hollick and involved with Twist as is Zelenka. When sitting back and putting the pieces of this puzzle together it’s not hard to see the big picture,      ");
array_files[101]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/sstwp101907.htm","2009-03-14","15K"," South Strabane Fighting Its Own Demons 10-19-07     ","",""," South Strabane Fighting Its Own Demons 10-19-07 All Rights Reserved South Strabane fighting it’s own Demons By Judi Panasik October 19, 2007 It’s that time of year, just before the blissful Christmas season, when we celebrate the ghouls and ghosts that haunt our world. In South Strabane this can also be referred to as a Supervisors meeting. And those who live in the township should fear this government more than beings from the other side or spells that can be cursed upon them. The actions of these men may come to haunt us for years to come. Over the last two years many residents, including myself, have come to witness actions and attitudes that would make Beelzebub (Prince of Darkness) to think twice. There are only 4 meetings left with the current board. In January anything could happen. The two candidates running for retired Supervisor Billy Bell’s position are Republican Tom Moore and Democrat Sherry Blackburn. Moore will bring a definite end to the voting block that is Bob Hollick, Tony Zelenka and Lou DePretis. DePretis, for a second time, was unable to win the seat. Moore has attended almost every supervisor meeting over the last two years and often attends other South Strabane meetings. He is also known to stand up to the current board and defend the rights of residents. Hollick told the residents after only 15 months in office that he will not seek a second term and just wanted to try this out. It is rumored that Zelenka will not be running for another term. What that leaves residents with is hope. Ed Mazur was proof in 2005 that the residents wanted change. Mazur a strong opponent of the TIF came from dead last with over 300 votes in the primary to over 1,300 in the general election. And Mike Crowe who only ran a 10-day write in campaign in the end had over 700 countable votes. With all the ones thrown out it will never be known how many votes were truly cast for Crowe. The same multiparty group that supported Mazur and Crowe is also supporting Moore who beat DePretis in the primary. And that leaves       ");
array_files[102]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/sttc110907.htm","2009-03-14","15K"," South Strabane On Verge of losing Tax Collectors against their Will     ","",""," South Strabane On Verge of losing Tax Collectors against their Will All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com South Strabane On Verge of losing Tax Collectors against their Will By Judi Panasik November 9, 2007 The age-old question is if a tree falls in the woods and there is no one around to hear it does it make a noise? An answer we will never know. What we do know is in South Strabane Township if a majority of residents stand up in protest or for something the supervisors will not hear them or chose to ignore them. At the upcoming November 13, township meeting in South Strabane, supervisors may will more than likely cast a vote that will turn our tax collection over to private business and out of the experienced and competent hands of Lillian Trautman. Trautman has served as tax collector for decades with great success. Although the public was just made aware of the possible ousting of our current tax collectors, paperwork that some residents have seen indicates that certain supervisors have been looking into using an outside company since at least June. At the last township meeting when asked residents were told that Lou DePretis was said to have contacted Central Tax. The question on resident’s minds was why is an outgoing supervisor that has yet to be elected, pursuing such drastic means for the township. Some questioned whether he held a grudge against Trautman because of the resident’s support of her husband over Bill Bell’s position? Or is he getting back at the residents for not voting him into office. But what they really questioned was why he kept saying when you deal “us.” “Us” implies that he would be involved, and since he will be off the board before they take over why is he acting like he’s not going anywhere? Thus leading to the even bigger question of what is really being planned behind the scenes? When Billy Bell took ill during the TIF process and the controversial vote took place, and DePretis lost the first election, the first plan to get him on the board is believ      ");
array_files[103]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/subscription.htm","2009-03-14","8K"," Subscription     ","",""," Subscription All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com To Subscribe to the Weekly Recorder, send your check or money order with the form below to The Weekly Recorder, P.O. Box F, Claysville, PA 15323     ");
array_files[104]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2009/031309wrestling.html","2009-03-14","13K"," WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP     ","",""," WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Report broken links: Editor@weekly-recorder.com webmaster@weekly-recorder.com WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP By: Jerry W. Seaman for the Weekly Recorder thebarnwrestling@yahoo.com “Way to go Alex Dunaway” HERSHEY, PA—— The McGuffey junior, Alex Dunaway, medals (103) in the AAA State Wrestling Tournament at the Hershey Giant Center. Alex made it to Hershey the only way he knows how. Hard work. If watched Dunaway wrestle at the WPIAL Tournament you saw some of that hard work in action. Close matches until the finals. After the way Jimmy Gulibon (Derry) beat up on him in the finals. I didn’t think he had a chance to even win a medal at states, but he got his head back on straight and his butt in gear. Jeff Breese, McGuffey’s Head Coach, Said. “I was quoted as saying that Alex has no talent. and that’s not what I said. He doesn’t have a lot of natural talent is what I said. Alex has worked hard to develop the talent he does have.” Dunaway lost a 3-0 decision to Paul Bewack (Hempfield) in the semifinals to stop his run at the title match. “I really thought I could win that semifinal match.” Said Alex. Coach Breese keeps telling me to open up on my feet and get that first takedown but he took me down and got out on me. That took me out of my match.” Dunaway came back in the Fourth Round Consolations and fell short in a close match with Sty Brown, Central Dauphin, 3-2 Nick Catalano (130) Canon-McMillan, who also won a fifth place medal, joined Dunaway as the only two local wrestlers to place in the PIAA-AAA State Tournament. Catalano sure had his motor running when he beat a returning state champion Cort Choate, Blue Mountain, 4-2 overtime victory. Now that’s the way to get the job done. Chris Mary, the head coach of Canon-McMillan and Jeff Breese of McGuffey both have these two medal winners and more coming back next year. Avella had the only two medals for the locals in the AA tournament. Mitch Spencer (135) lost the third place consolation match and Alex Temple (189)      ");
array_files[105]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2009/031309citybeat.html","2009-03-14","16K"," City Beat - The Weekly Recorder     ","",""," City Beat - The Weekly Recorder All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Report broken links: Editor@weekly-recorder.com webmaster@weekly-recorder.com CITY BEAT By Allyson White The Weekly Recorder March 13, 2009 The next part of the agenda meeting continued smoothly as there was no fighting amongst any members of city council or the mayor. It was city council’s first agenda meeting in the evening and appeared to run smoother than those held in the daytime. Three days later City Council held its business meeting which also included public hearings for zoning changes. Many onlookers prior to the start questioned “can we be so lucky this runs as smooth.” First however, Mayor Spossey made a motion to move a personnel hearing to the end of the meeting. After the change in the nighttime game plan, city council got to business. They unanimously voted to make changes to zoning ordinances to restrict halfway houses and other types of facilities in Washington. Many residents in the audience applauded the group’s efforts to clean up the community. Councilman Blackhurst described the measure as “sweeping in their scope.” According to the changes, it also includes restrictions on allowing current facilities of this type to expand and also stops them from “further plaguing neighborhoods” as some residents describe it. “While contributing little economic benefits, these elements place an unneeded strain on the police department and school district,” Blackhurst said. Staniszewski also applauded council’s efforts. Staniszewski said “this can help clean up our neighborhoods.” Blackhurst agreed and thanked the police and fire chefs among his fellow city council. Next, during public participation, a resident complained about her taxes doubling due to the recent tax hikes and how it’s “driving people out of the city.” Staniszewski was quick to agree with her and also cited the fact he is the only one who voted against raising taxes. “I warned them this would happen. My warnings fell on deaf ears. We need to focus on regionaliza      ");
array_files[106]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/index.htm","2009-03-14","29K"," Weekly Recorder News     ","",""," Weekly Recorder News All Rights Reserved City of Washington South Strabane / Trinity John C. Pettit Other Articles Other South Strabane On Verge of losing Tax Collectors against their Will South Strabane fighting it’s own Demons An Update on South Strabane’s “Field of Schemes” South Strabane Supervisors Blindly review Budget Will South Strabane Strike Out Again with Trinity South Strabanes Cowardly Lion Source_Pettit Tried to Get Passport Monday FBI Seizes Documents The Names Revealed Source: Michael Tarbuck to Testify Sources: Pettit to Visit New Zealand Pettit Takes Everything But the Lamp Tarbuck Confirms that He was Subpoenaed to Testify Against Pettit Source: Pettit is in New Zealand Source States Tarbuck Wants Immunity to Tell Whole Story Tarbuck Hires Greggs Defense Attorney “CALL ME DADDY” Sources: Pettit liked the girls to call him “Daddy” Oral Fixation Dominates Activites Hes Back Who Was It? Tiffany Ryan Testifys Paulette Benard Suit Could Be Settled STEVE TOPRANI The Weekly Recorder’s 2007 MAN OF THE YEAR Democratic Dispute Settled THE RETURN OF RETOS - 2007’s Kingmaker Muslim Groups Influence Grows with Democratic Candidates Sports Vs. Education George Vitteck Wins Democratic Nod Murder in Charleroi Canton Reorganizes South Strabane Matt Staniszewski Finally Heading to Jail Council Expresses Relief and Sadness at Conviction Work Release, Could There be Issues? Stout Finally Leaves County Home White Votes Against Perzel Amendment Pettit Interview December 21, 2007 January 4, 2008 November 23, 2007 December 14, 2007 February 8, 2008 January 11, 2008 January 25, 2008 February 1, 2008 January 18, 2008 February 15, 2008 February 29, 2008 March 7, 2008     ");
array_files[107]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/contact.htm","2009-03-14","10K"," Contact     ","",""," Contact All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Subscription Rates: PA or WV: One year 30, Six months 16 All other states: One year 34, Six months 18 The Weekly Recorder is published every Friday except for the week after Thanksgiving and the week of Christmas. Cody Knotts, Editor 724-350-0127 The Award Winning Weekly Recorder The truth only costs .75 Joan Knotts 724-514-7239 Claysville, PA 15323-0506 P.O. Box F Editorial Advertising Subscription Information View Subscription Form recorder@pulsenet.com recorder@pulsenet.com Editor@weekly-recorder.com     ");
array_files[108]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/advertise.htm","2009-03-14","7K"," Advertise in The Weekly Recorder     ","",""," Advertise in The Weekly Recorder All Rights Reserved PRINT ADVERTISING RATES     ");
array_files[109]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2009/031309wrestling.html","2009-03-14","13K"," WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP     ","",""," WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Report broken links: Editor@weekly-recorder.com webmaster@weekly-recorder.com WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP By: Jerry W. Seaman for the Weekly Recorder thebarnwrestling@yahoo.com “Way to go Alex Dunaway” HERSHEY, PA—— The McGuffey junior, Alex Dunaway, medals (103) in the AAA State Wrestling Tournament at the Hershey Giant Center. Alex made it to Hershey the only way he knows how. Hard work. If watched Dunaway wrestle at the WPIAL Tournament you saw some of that hard work in action. Close matches until the finals. After the way Jimmy Gulibon (Derry) beat up on him in the finals. I didn’t think he had a chance to even win a medal at states, but he got his head back on straight and his butt in gear. Jeff Breese, McGuffey’s Head Coach, Said. “I was quoted as saying that Alex has no talent. and that’s not what I said. He doesn’t have a lot of natural talent is what I said. Alex has worked hard to develop the talent he does have.” Dunaway lost a 3-0 decision to Paul Bewack (Hempfield) in the semifinals to stop his run at the title match. “I really thought I could win that semifinal match.” Said Alex. Coach Breese keeps telling me to open up on my feet and get that first takedown but he took me down and got out on me. That took me out of my match.” Dunaway came back in the Fourth Round Consolations and fell short in a close match with Sty Brown, Central Dauphin, 3-2 Nick Catalano (130) Canon-McMillan, who also won a fifth place medal, joined Dunaway as the only two local wrestlers to place in the PIAA-AAA State Tournament. Catalano sure had his motor running when he beat a returning state champion Cort Choate, Blue Mountain, 4-2 overtime victory. Now that’s the way to get the job done. Chris Mary, the head coach of Canon-McMillan and Jeff Breese of McGuffey both have these two medal winners and more coming back next year. Avella had the only two medals for the locals in the AA tournament. Mitch Spencer (135) lost the third place consolation match and Alex Temple (189)      ");
array_files[110]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2009/031309citybeat.html","2009-03-14","16K"," City Beat - The Weekly Recorder     ","",""," City Beat - The Weekly Recorder All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Report broken links: Editor@weekly-recorder.com webmaster@weekly-recorder.com CITY BEAT By Allyson White The Weekly Recorder March 13, 2009 The next part of the agenda meeting continued smoothly as there was no fighting amongst any members of city council or the mayor. It was city council’s first agenda meeting in the evening and appeared to run smoother than those held in the daytime. Three days later City Council held its business meeting which also included public hearings for zoning changes. Many onlookers prior to the start questioned “can we be so lucky this runs as smooth.” First however, Mayor Spossey made a motion to move a personnel hearing to the end of the meeting. After the change in the nighttime game plan, city council got to business. They unanimously voted to make changes to zoning ordinances to restrict halfway houses and other types of facilities in Washington. Many residents in the audience applauded the group’s efforts to clean up the community. Councilman Blackhurst described the measure as “sweeping in their scope.” According to the changes, it also includes restrictions on allowing current facilities of this type to expand and also stops them from “further plaguing neighborhoods” as some residents describe it. “While contributing little economic benefits, these elements place an unneeded strain on the police department and school district,” Blackhurst said. Staniszewski also applauded council’s efforts. Staniszewski said “this can help clean up our neighborhoods.” Blackhurst agreed and thanked the police and fire chefs among his fellow city council. Next, during public participation, a resident complained about her taxes doubling due to the recent tax hikes and how it’s “driving people out of the city.” Staniszewski was quick to agree with her and also cited the fact he is the only one who voted against raising taxes. “I warned them this would happen. My warnings fell on deaf ears. We need to focus on regionaliza      ");
array_files[111]=new Array(0,4,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/stiles050908.pdf","2009-03-14","957K","stiles050908.pdf    ","","","     ");
array_files[112]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2008/053008citymtg.htm","2009-03-14","19K"," “Idiot” leads City, holds “illegal meeting”     ","",""," “Idiot” leads City, holds “illegal meeting” “Idiot” leads City, holds “illegal meeting” The Weekly Recorder May 30, 2008 Washington-Washington City Councilwoman caught her fellow three council members, Tom Blackhurst, Terry Faust and Matt Staniszewski having an “illegal” meeting in violation of the Sunshine Act. The meeting was being held to interview possible firms to replace the current IT contractor with another one. Blackhurst, Faust and Staniszewski were the three members in attendance and have long opposed the current contractor. Ullom and Mayor Sonny Spossey believe that the position is actually an employee position. Blackhurst admitted on Wednesday that the solicitor was called to City Hall and informed them that the meeting must be advertised and was in violation of the Sunshine Law. Blackhurst did believe that the meeting was only informational and similar to the meetings held by Washington County regarding the TIF in South Strabane Township. Ullom was shocked that her fellow council members would hold this meeting regarding her department without informing her. She told us over the phone that we were right about Matt Staniszewski leading the group in opposition to her and Spossey’s policies. “The idiot is leading the group” referring to Staniszewski and informed us that Staniszewski is not “reforming” as has been suggested by writers in this newspaper. Blackhurst assured us that no more “illegal” meetings will be held regarding the IT department and everything in the future will be advertised. Staniszewski could not be reached for comment as he is in prison. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News Sports Sports Beat, 5/2/08 Featured Columns Opinion Richs Random Thoughts 6/6/08 Irey to Divorce Notes from the NFL Draft What really happened to South Strabane Parks and Wreck? South Strabane Group Homes City Beat 5-16-08 The High Tide of Environmentalism The Problem with Government Sports Beat, 5/16/08 Richs Random Thoughts 5/16/08 South Strabane: The Fall of the Great       ");
array_files[113]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/newsarticles2007/122107citybeat.htm","2009-03-14","12K"," City Beat 12-21-07     ","",""," City Beat 12-21-07 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com CITY BEAT BY George Murin December 21, 2007 Washington- City council probably held its last meeting of 2007, December 13th. During the long public participation, City Treasurer and Mayor Elect Sonny Spossey spoke on tax collections for 2007. Many of the taxes collected were over or near the budgeted amounts for the year. He then spoke of the debt service for 2007. He listed the pension debt for the city as 11% of the budget or 1,131,896. (I find this interesting since the bond issue of 1997 was for 258,000 a year, and since then the city has contributed NOTHING to the pension funds until this year. It used the state aid money to pay off the bond. If the city would have stuck in the 300,000 plus each year that it received in state aid and the ½% of taxes collected, as required in third class city code, the million dollar figure would probably be next to nothing. Blaming it on the employees seems to be the city answer to all its problems, not the mismanagement of the city fathers.) He listed the total debt service at 2.5 million a year or 24% of the total city budget. Sonny and the other newly elected council members have a tough job ahead trying to straighten out the mess the previous council made. More projects are coming out to try to take advantage of the gambling money available. Three more were presented: A building at the corner of Locust Ave. and Leonard Ave.; the Watermark Gallery project for the downtown; and Auld project for upscale apartments above the state store on Main and Maiden Streets, the sight of the old Auld Hotel. The discussion on VisionQuest’s school for troubled teenage girls followed. Those who spoke out asked city council to appeal a judges order that allowed it to be opened on a technicality. This was when the city failed to notify VisionQuest in writing, within 30 days, that their request to open was denied. VisionQuest was at the meeting. First Linda Wade, who has been in the front of this issue, sta      ");
array_files[114]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion.htm","2009-03-14","7K"," Opinion     ","",""," Opinion All Rights Reserved Editorial     ");
array_files[115]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/news.htm","2009-03-14","9K"," News     ","",""," News Recent Covers All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Report broken links: Editor@weekly-recorder.com webmaster@weekly-recorder.com     ");
array_files[116]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/index.html","2009-03-14","12K"," Welcome to The Weekly Recorder Online     ","",""," Welcome to The Weekly Recorder Online All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Report broken links: Editor@weekly-recorder.com webmaster@weekly-recorder.com Richs Random Thoughts Political Secrets Sports Beat The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (no. 26 - 50) Previews and Reviews: Western Pennsylvania Musician’s Group Sports Thoughts Political Thoughts Lone Pine News News City Beat and City Streets Wraslin Round-Up Featured Columns Entertainment Opinion Features The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (no. 1 - 25) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition)     ");
array_files[117]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/","2009-03-14","12K"," Welcome to The Weekly Recorder Online     ","",""," Welcome to The Weekly Recorder Online All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Report broken links: Editor@weekly-recorder.com webmaster@weekly-recorder.com Richs Random Thoughts Political Secrets Sports Beat The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (no. 26 - 50) Previews and Reviews: Western Pennsylvania Musician’s Group Sports Thoughts Political Thoughts Lone Pine News News City Beat and City Streets Wraslin Round-Up Featured Columns Entertainment Opinion Features The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (no. 1 - 25) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) (print edition)     ");
array_files[118]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/features.htm","2009-03-14","11K"," Features     ","",""," Features All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com All Rights Reserved The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County March 7, 2008 Washington Countys Sexiest Men September 28, 2007 Washington Countys Sexiest Women October 5, 2007 Read More... Read More... The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (#1 - 25) March 6, 2009 (in print edition)     ");
array_files[119]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/columns.htm","2009-03-14","14K"," Columns     ","",""," Columns Richs Random Thoughts Travel Sports Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center; Wild, Wonderful West Virginia Light on the Lake, Bed & Breakfast Entertainment Local Country Beauties Hit The Stage In Claysville Three beautiful, up and coming local singers hit the stage on May 1st at the Claysville Community Center, in what was a very entertaining night of music. David Lee Roth/Van Halen Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Tom Petty’s last show at the Post Gazette Pavilion was played to a packed house. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Report broken links: Editor@weekly-recorder.com webmaster@weekly-recorder.com Richs Random Thoughts Sports Beat Sports Thoughts (print edition) (print edition) (print edition) Previews and Reviews: Western Pennsylvania Musician’s Group (print edition)     ");
array_files[120]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/prls092107.htm","2008-06-06","12K"," Previews and Reviews - The Lynyrd Skynyrd franchise     ","",""," Previews and Reviews - The Lynyrd Skynyrd franchise All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com By Steve Chess September 21, 2007 The Lynyrd Skynyrd franchise appears to be safe in the hands of its current trustees. From that day in 1977, when the band’s chartered plane crashed (on the way to a gig in Louisiana), Lynyrd Skynyrd’s personnel have been adjusted several times. Front man, Ronnie Van Zant and two other band members were killed in the plane crash that also severely injured five other band members. This prompted a tenyear hiatus while survivors did their physical and emotional rehab. It was rumored that the band, that had been so successful since 1970, had reached an end. The rumors were greatly exaggerated. Since the band reunited for a comeback tour in 1987, their multigenerational fan base has continued to grow exponentially. On Friday, September 14th, Lynyrd Skynyrd once again brought their traveling show to the Post Gazette Pavilion. With two surviving members (Gary Rossington /guitar and Billy Powell / Keyboards) and Ronnie Van Zant’s little brother Johnny fronting the band, Lynyrd Skynyrd played (gleefully) to a full house (and lawn). Mark Matejka (formerly of the Charlie Daniels Band) and Rickey Medlocke filled out the “ 3 lead guitar” signature sound and bassist, Ean Evans did an excellent job maintaining the Skynyrd grooves and rhythm in conjunction with Michael Cartellone on drums. Carol Chase and Dale Krantz Rossington sang backup as a duo. The first part of their set included the Skynyrd classics, “What’s Your Name,” “That Smell” and “Simple Kind Of Man,” after which, Johnny Van Zant pointed out (above the din of excited fans) that, after 7 years of nominations, Lynyrd Skynyrd had finally been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame (in 2006). He also expressed (at this time and throughout the show ) the band’s gratitude for their fans’ continued loyalty. The band then entered into a medley of several Skynyrd hits. This included one verse each of; “The Needle & T      ");
array_files[121]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/122107philart.htm","2008-06-06","15K"," Renoir Landscapes Exhibit     ","",""," Renoir Landscapes Exhibit All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com Philadelphia Museum of Art is Renoir Landscapes Exhibit Only U.S. Stop by Judith Panasik December 21, 2007 Art can be defined as an attempt to imitate nature or to produce a sense of beauty. It’s sometimes a historical marker whether it is a painting on a cave wall or a Pulitzer Prize winning photo capturing the emotion of an event. Paintings by French impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir have done both. Although better none for pieces that portray a day in a Paris park, a couple dancing, or people sharing a simple moment, Renoir like other artists of his time was also known for his landscape painting. Paintings that color and brushstrokes capture the simple moments and soft nature of the time. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is the only United States stop for the Renoir Landscapes: 1865-1883 exhibit that was put together in collaboration with the National Gallery London, and the National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa. The exhibit has several known pieces and many new discoveries. The presentation is not only an amazing and moving visual exhibit of the French Countryside and the people of the late 1800’s, it’s a history lesson in itself. As always the Philadelphia Museum of Art puts on an exhibit that is educational and poignant. A headphone set takes you through the exhibit giving you a background of the paintings and of Renoir. You learn the part technology plays in that time period and the evolution of the painter’s work. Through the ability to put oil paints in a tube artists were able to take their canvases into the countryside and out of the cities. The development of the railroad also allowed for this. And with Renoir’s new found financial means he was able to travel through Europe and to Algeria where he was inspired and painted many of the pieces found in the exhibit. But of all the pieces the one that makes me think the most is one where Renoir painted Monet painting a picture in a piece appropriately titled “Monet p      ");
array_files[122]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/121407doowop.htm","2008-06-06","16K"," Doo Wop Reunion Concert at Mellon Arena     ","",""," Doo Wop Reunion Concert at Mellon Arena All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com PREVIEWS AND REVIEWS By Steve Chess December 14, 2007 In recent years, the term Doo Wop has been used to describe a genre of music that flourished in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s. Technically, Doo Wop is “…a vocal style of Rock and Roll characterized by the a cappella singing of nonsense syllables in rhythmical support of the melody.” Lately, nebulous boundaries have allowed the term to encompass a broader range of popular music from that era. In some (cynical) circles, the term has been used almost as a pejorative…implying music that is somehow of lower quality. Nothing could have been further from the truth in describing the Friday, December 7th, Doo Wop Reunion Concert at Mellon Arena. Opening the musical portion of the show was the vocal duo, Johnnie and Joe. Joe is a tall, lanky gentleman, meticulously dressed in suit and tie, while Johnnie, the feminine half of the duo, brings energy, humor and a strong clear voice to the mix. Their numbers were included a light hearted, romantic repartee’ that seemed to enhance every song. Prominent in their brief set were the songs, “Over the Mountain” (which in the duo’s heyday was particularly popular with their Latin fans) and “I’ll Be Spinning.” Local Favorites, Jimmy Beaumont and the Skyliners opened their set with “Pennies From Heaven.” Understandably, the band’s personnel has changed over the years, but the current configuration delivered journeyman’s work on their trademark numbers. There were less upper register vocal passages than one might have heard from them 30 years ago, but the present interpretations had no trouble pleasing their many fans in attendance. Donna Groom’s vocals were particularly strong and lent an additional element of excitement to the band’s 15-minute set. Finishing with their classic ballad, “Since I Don’t Have You,” Jimmy and his Skyliners delivered as promised. Next up was Phil Spector discovery, The Crystals. Original core mem      ");
array_files[123]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/112307cvrcc.htm","2008-06-06","14K"," Canaan Valley Resort and Conference Center - Wild, Wonderful West Virginia     ","",""," Canaan Valley Resort and Conference Center - Wild, Wonderful West Virginia All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center; Wild, Wonderful West Virginia by Nancy Murin November 23, 2007 Canaan Valley Resort State Park is located in West Virginia. It is approximately 120 miles from Washington and took about two and a half hours to get there. We traveled there the first weekend in November. It was a beautiful drive. The leaves in Pennsylvania and Maryland were still very colorful. However, once we hit West Virginia the leaves were gone. So, if you want to go when the foliage is at its best in Canaan Valley, make your reservations for mid October. The scenery is wonderful, a nature lovers paradise. As we drove thru the park deer were out in the open and even walked over to our car. Note: you’re not supposed to feed the animals. When we went to our room there were two deer in front of our door greeting us. The resort has 250 rooms, 23 cabins and cottages, and 10 meeting rooms. There is also a 34 site campground in the park. The rooms are average. The dining room is very nice with a romantic atmosphere. It has a great panoramic view of the park and surrounding mountains. The large fire place in the middle of the room gives a nice warm glow. The buffet served in the dining room was really good and had a lot of food to choose from. We had the prime rib buffet and the breakfast buffet both were good. If you don’t want to eat in the dining room you can go to Pazzo’s Pizza & Diner. There you can get pizza, subs, burgers or salads, all without leaving the lodge. If you just want drinks and a small meal you can go to the Lounge. It’s a cozy area with a fire place, nice views and a big screen TV. At Canaan Valley you can do everything or nothing. Here are just some of the activities: ·Championship golfIndoor / outdoor poolsarts & crafts ·Skiingfishinghiking ·Kids playgroundsmassage servicepaintball ·Whirl poolvolleyball courtKidz Korner ·Geocachingclimbing wallfitn      ");
array_files[124]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/111607smithfield.htm","2008-06-06","12K"," Smithfield Street Productions celebrates one year in Pittsburgh     ","",""," Smithfield Street Productions celebrates one year in Pittsburgh All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com Smithfield Street Productions celebrates one year in Pittsburgh November 16, 2007 Pittsburgh-Smithfield Street productions, Pittsburgh leading film producer celebrated this first year. The company is about to release its first film, Hack, a comedy-slasher film. Headlining the event was Eliza Dushku, best known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Bring it On. Dressed in a simple black dress with a red hat, Dusku was the center of everyone’s attention. Most recently, the new production house worked side by side with Actor Blair Underwood in his Directorial Debut right here in Pittsburgh. Smithfield and Underwood completed The Bridge to Nowhere (Starring Ving Rhames, Bijou Phillips and Danny Masterson), which is a crime/drama about four 20-something guys from the Upper North Side of Pittsburgh who go to extreme lengths to break away from the neighborhood. The star-struck event marks the official launch of a new era in film production —Smithfield Street Productions! The company, founded by four unique individuals (Mike Wittlin, Mike Dolan, Ben Barton, and Brian Hartman), brings a diverse skill set and unique array of talent to the Pittsburgh region. More Entertainment Articles Lynyrd Skynyrd Stevie Wonder Smithfield Street Productions celebrates one year in Pittsburgh Doo Wop Reunion Concert at Mellon Arena Philadelphia Museum of Art is Renoir Landscapes Exhibit Only U.S. Stop     ");
array_files[125]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/111607par.htm","2008-06-06","14K"," Previews and Reviews - Stevie Wonder     ","",""," Previews and Reviews - Stevie Wonder All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com PREVIEWS AND REVIEWS By Steve Chess November 16, 2007 The last time that Stevie Wonder performed in Southwestern Pennsylvania was in 1972. That show is now the stuff of legend. He was actually the opening act for The Rolling Stones. It has been said by more than a few of the attendees (of that show) that, as he began performing, it very quickly became apparent that Stevie Wonder was a (the) headliner. Scroll ahead about 35 years to Friday, November 9th 2007 at what is now called Mellon Arena. Stevie Wonder, no longer the callow youth, once again graced a local stage. Greeted by thunderous applause and cheering, he was led to an open area of the stage by his daughter, Aisha Morris (one of his 7 children). While daughter Aisha stood at his side he engaged in a brief monologue, during which he attributed his return to touring to his mother’s spirit ( she died in 2006), urging him to do so. Stevie and Aisha then sat dawn, he to a Yamaha grand piano and she to a keyboard rack. The opening song (duet) was “Love’s In Need Of Love Today.” It was indeed the old Stevie, but he was just warming up. The pacing of the set seemed a little awkward at first, but one might expect a few bumps in the road when a tour is planned (as this one was) in just a few weeks. The songs that he and his band chose to perform seemed to be a fairly representative sampling of an extremely successful career that has spanned more than forty years. Material was gleaned from albums including, “Songs In the Key of Life,” “Musiquarium,” “Innervisions,” “Talking Book,” “In Square Circle,” “Hotter Than July,” and “A Time to Love.” I believe that the real story was (as it was some 35 years ago at the same venue) Stevie Wonder’s vocal mastery. Guided by his perfectly measured breath, subtle phrasing and resonant tone throughout a broad range, Stevie’s vocals carried the show. Incredibly, the songs became more vocally challenging as the show progressed.       ");
array_files[126]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/111607lightonthelake.htm","2008-06-06","14K"," Light on the Lake     ","",""," Light on the Lake All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com TRAVEL TIPS: ERIE, PA Light on the Lake, Bed & Breakfast November 16, 2007 First, I must preface this review by stating that I have never stayed at a Bed and Breakfast. So I was totally unprepared for what my wife and I might encounter. So now I can report that it was on of the best travel experiences of my life. While hotels can sometimes (most of the time actually) feel very impersonal, at no times did we feel as we were just another guest. The Marcia and Dan Groce were amazing hosts, always there to help with advice and they made you feel as though their home was yours. So on with the details. The Home Light on the Lake is directly located on Lake Erie, east of Erie, Pa. The home is adjoined by a marina and has a nice beach in front along the lake. But what makes this bed and breakfast unique is the small lighthouse beside the home. The architecture effect of the lighthouse is to make the home feel very large and gives the feel of truly being in a seafaring area. The entranceway of the home is set up to continue to give off the feel of a seafaring home. A high ceiling lends to the effect, combined with an older style wooden desk for the guest registry. One feels as though you are signing on to a ship’s passage. The main room has a series of large windows for viewing of the lake. The windows not only provide a gorgeous view of the lake, but the design lends itself to again feeling as though one is actually on board a ship. A fireplace, sitting area stocked with magazines and the added touch of personal photos lends to the feel of being in both someone welcoming home. The room also features a telescope for viewing of the lake. From the main room, one can enter the kitchen area. The kitchen is fully equipped with older style wooden cabinets. Everything here was very neat and clean, a prerequisite when one is eating someone else’s cooking. The dining area is part of the kitchen area and features a large eight-person table. The ho      ");
array_files[127]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/060608rrt.htm","2008-06-06","29K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder June 6, 2008 *I owe an apology to the readers of this newspaper and of this column. Last week, I stated that we had reached the halfway point of the year as May turned into June. I was mistaken and I am very sorry about my gaffe. I got ahead of myself because the end of the school occurred for me this week and it seemed as if the halfway point of the year had approached as well. When we turned our calendars last Sunday, that’s when it hit me that we still have one month left in the first half of 2008 before we start on the second half. My sincerest apologies for my mistake. The weather has started to turn and that means that we are now into summer, regardless of what the calendar tells us. The warmth may feel good to you if all you do is sit on a porch, on a deck, in the yard, or take a walk. For those of us who have to do work outside, it’s a different story. While we have not yet hit the summer peak as far as warmth is concerned, I have already noticed a difference. It doesn’t take much for me to feel the heat and the warmth and the misery soon follows. I have stated many times that I am a cool weather guy. Cold and snow does not bother me. I know I am in the deep minority on this and that’s fine. I could live somewhere where the temperature stays in the 50s and 60s all year long. As many people talk about living in Florida (and you can have it!), I would just as soon live in a cooler climate. I tolerate the heat, but I do not like it. I equate myself to the “pony” cars of the 1960s and 70s. When those cars were loaded with fuel, they sped like crazy. When the fuel ran out, they were worthless, until they were filled up again. I am the same way. I go like crazy when I am at my peak. When the fuel runs out, I am dead in the water. The summer heat does it. That’s why I am not a fan of summer, nor will I ever be one. The good news is that we are two months away from football training camps, which will open in late July. That means th      ");
array_files[128]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/060608previews.htm","2008-06-06","25K"," Previews and Reviews: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers     ","",""," Previews and Reviews: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers PREVIEWS AND REVIEWS By Steve Chess The Weekly Recorder June 6, 2008 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are once again to grace the stage of the Post Gazette Pavilion in Burgettstown. This time it will be on Tuesday evening, June 10th. In excess of 120 million people around the world saw them perform during the halftime show at Super Bowl XLII. Few viewing Tom Petty and his band that evening had anything close to the experience that one is treated to when seeing them perform in a live venue. At this writing there are still tickets available for Tuesday’s P. G. Pavilion show. Tom Petty’s last show at the Post Gazette Pavilion was played to a packed house. That show’s set was replete with his 30 plus years of hits. “Free Fallin,’” “American Girl,” “Mary Jane’s Last Dance,” “Learning To Fly,” “I Won’t Back Down,” they were all there, but more important was the delivery. The 57 year old Rocker has somehow found the secret to remaining relevant to many of his multigenerational fans. This secret (at least in part) has to be the enthusiasm he infuses into every number and his seeming total focus on the song being performed. His shows do employ much of the flashy technology available to major acts performing today, but ultimately it must come back to the artist to deliver the goods. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers do just that. Sharing the tour with Petty this year is legendary performer, Steve Winwood. Since a 15 year old Steve Winwood recorded “Gimme Some Lovin’” and “I’m A Man,” (both of which he co-wrote) with the Spencer Davis Group, he has been an important force in popular music. Winwood’s skill as a multi-instrumentalist and his “Blue Eyed Soul” vocal delivery have made him one of the most distinctive and identifiable artists in recent musical history. His work with the band, Traffic (inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame in 2004) did much to cement Steve Winwood’s place in musical history. His, “Dear Mister Fantasy” has become a favorite of many jam ba      ");
array_files[129]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/051608sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","30K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat SPORTS BEAT By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder May 16, 2008 *An interesting piece appeared in one of the Pittsburgh newspapers over the weekend regarding whether the Penguins had overtaken the Steelers as the favorite team in this region. This debate has been going on for a while, ever since the Penguins started winning Stanley Cups in the early 1990s. The Steelers won their fifth Super Bowl nearly three years ago, so the competition for attention seems like a moot point, or does it? In this sports crazed region, I believe there is plenty of room for all three of our professional sports franchises to garner support from the fan base. This has been, and always will be, a hot football market. All you have to do is attend a local high school football game in the fall to see what I am talking about. People in this region live for football, and the long waiting list for Steelers season tickets is a testament to that. This is the second time that the Penguins have attracted a major portion of the attention from the local fan base, what with the young talent currently on the roster. Mario Lemieux led the first revolution when he was drafted in 1984. He turned hockey into more than a niche in this region; he made it cool to play hockey. All you have to do is look at all of the ice rinks that have sprouted up since his arrival and those teams that have formed to play this sport. Now that Sidney Crosby is wearing the Black and Gold, that evolution is experiencing a rebirth. It’s no secret that the local populace supports a winner. All one has to do is look over in Oakland where the Pitt Panthers men’s basketball team plays and you will notice what I am talking about. It is consistently a top 10, 15, or 25 team. If you win, the fans will show up. However, the fans show up at football games no matter what, and they have shown their support while the Penguins were rebuilding during the middle part of the decade. I am a big believer that all three teams can share in the attention. It was stated in this piece tha      ");
array_files[130]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/051608rrt.htm","2008-06-06","29K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder May 16, 2008 *The recent tragedy that took place in Pittsburgh where a 19 year old young man was shot to death because he allegedly, and most likely, shot a police dog to death, illustrates, to me, what we have wrong in our society. As I have mentioned, this column’s foundation is common sense and personal responsibility. While this incident took place in Allegheny County, it just as easily could have taken place here in Washington County. The fact that the young man and his family are African American notwithstanding, it is time to stop blaming law enforcement officers for doing their jobs and it is time to start looking inside one’s soul, to look at oneself in the mirror, and look at the big picture. It has been documented that the young man had a history of legal troubles and was trying to turn his life around. Yes, young people do make mistakes and this young man made more than his share. Why did he have a gun in his possession? His family said he was killed over a dog. First, the police officer in charge of the K-9 unit would not have released his dog had there not been some kind of danger. These are highly trained individuals, dogs included, and they do not release the animal unless they sense something wrong. To top this off, the dog is classified as a police officer and a member of the force. That, in itself, is grounds for serious implications. Of course, this incident is not over. During this past weekend, both the dog and the young man were eulogized and laid to rest. Now, it will become a battle between the family and Pittsburgh Police and excessive use of force. I have stated in the past that I have no problem with the police using force to stem a possible volatile situation. These men and women in uniform put their lives on the line everyday to protect us, then they get accused of excessive force when they are really doing their jobs. We all remember when Corporal Joseph Pokorny was gunned down with his weapon after a       ");
array_files[131]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/051608reviews.htm","2008-06-06","25K"," Previews and Reviews - David Lee Roth - Van Halan reunion tour     ","",""," Previews and Reviews - David Lee Roth - Van Halan reunion tour Previews and Reviews By Steve Chess The Weekly Recorder May 19, 2008 The long awaited and much heralded David Lee Roth/Van Halen reunion tour is finally underway and on Wednesday, April 30th, made a stop at Mellon Arena. The childish Rock and Roll excesses of their callow youth largely behind them, the band seems intent on maintaining a level of professionalism in their current configuration. Van Halen’s 2007 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame seemed to be an inevitable milestone for the band. To many(most) musicians, the band is really the brothers, Eddie and Alex. To the guitar geeks(term of endearment) the parade of vocalist front men seems almost incidental. Despite health problems and failures in personal relationships, that essential core of the band(the brothers) has remained solid. Eddie Van Halen’s pioneering two hand tapping guitar technique has influenced several generations of guitar players across the full spectrum of genres...including Classical(Dominic Frasca - Eddie Van Halen For Eggheads). Bass player, Michael Anthony has been replaced by Eddie’s seventeen year old son, Wolfie (Wolfgang, for Mozart). Opening for Van Halen was the young R&B artist, Ryan Shaw. This fellow has obviously studied the masters of previous eras and interprets his chosen material armed with one of the finest vocal instruments to come along in a while. His interpretation of Otis Redding’s, “Try A Little Tenderness,” is nothing short of spectacular. It would be surprising if one were not to hear of greater things from Ryan Shaw in the future. Van Halen opened their show with their first hit to chart(back in the seventies), “You Really Got Me.” The Kinks cover tune has since become associated as much with Van Halen as with the Kinks. The driving, major second riff was enough to enliven a crowd looking for an excuse. There was a circular “runway” extending in front of the main stage and David Lee Roth would periodically use it to get a little more up      ");
array_files[132]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/051608demoparty.htm","2008-06-06","29K"," Will superficial bandages heal democratic primary wounds?     ","",""," Will superficial bandages heal democratic primary wounds? Will superficial bandages heal democratic primary wounds? By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder May 16, 2008 It’s been about 200 years since Thomas Jefferson started the Democratic Party. Could the Democratic Primary of 2008 be the first step in a break off of the party and the start of a new one? As Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have strong holds on different party demographics, neither of which seem to want to support the other candidate, what will happen to the Democratic Party? In a race that Obama has practically declared himself a winner along with several media outlets, Hillary’s supporters came out in record numbers for West Virginia’s Primary on May 13. It’s been almost a month since Pennsylvania garnered the same attention in this race, a race that many thought was over all the way back in February. In a state she knew she was going to win, Hillary and her family pulled out all of the stops campaigning through West Virginia over the past several weeks. In contrast, Obama made minimal appearances. This is no surprise; it’s true to Obama form. He knows he can’t win it and doesn’t even try. He didn’t even give West Virginia the benefit of getting to see who may represent the Democratic Party in the fall. Obama did the same thing to Western and Middle Pennsylvania. It was during his run in Pennsylvania that he made the still talked about comment about us being bitter and clinging to our guns and God. Since the West Virginia demographics, like those of us in Western Pennsylvania, resemble that remark, maybe he was to chicken to face those voters. The Clinton’s on the other hand fit the state like an old glove. President Clinton was making unscheduled stops that weren’t publicized by anything but word of mouth and was drawing huge crowds. During his speeches, which were slight variations of the ones he had used a month before in Pennsylvania, he had modified them to the West Virginia crowd. And he didn’t cut his speeches short even though he knew h      ");
array_files[133]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/050208sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","21K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat GTX20094 7 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News Sports Sports Beat, 5/2/08 Sports Beat, 4/18/08 Featured Columns GTX06480 2 GTX06480 5 GTX06480 8 GTX06481 1 GTX06481 5 GTX06481 8 GTX06482 1 GTX06482 4 Frida Kahlo exhibit Is Obama the Next George Bush I.T. in the CiTi Naumoff Resigns from Peters Council Trinity School District Paying 13,731 for water bill in one building. Why are Washington County Democrats being left out in the cold? Irey-Toprani call for Jail Investigation Strawberry Alley Aftermath City Beat, 4/18/08 The Battle Between Light and Darkness Three democrats to look for on the ballot One Nation Under Bitter Pennsylvania? It’s a man’s world in South Strabane Twp Sports Beat, 4/25/08 Richs Random Thoughts 4/25/08 Billy Joel Notes from the NFL Draft How Gold Water Happened GTX06492 4     ");
array_files[134]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/050908singers.htm","2008-06-06","28K"," Local Country Beauties Hit The Stage In Claysville     ","",""," Local Country Beauties Hit The Stage In Claysville Local Country Beauties Hit The Stage In Claysville The Weekly Recorder May 9, 2008 Three beautiful, up and coming local singers hit the stage on May 1st at the Claysville Community Center, in what was a very entertaining night of music. Sarah Marince, Brynn Marie and Kellie Lynne each took turns performing their own songs, as well as some of the more popular songs in country music. The small crowd at this event didn’t have an effect on the performers, who each gave their all in their time on the stage. Moon Township’s Sarah Marince took the stage first. The 17-year-old Pittsburgh native was joined by guitar player Anthony Rankin. She used a music track to fill in the rest of the music, but she did sing live, and did she ever sing. Marince opened with an original, “Just Look At Me”, a catchy tune that let her show off her poise early on. She didn’t seem like she was 17 on stage, though she appeared to be a little bit nervous at first. It took about three songs for her to seem completely comfortable on stage, and she did that with a cute song almost reminiscent of Taylor Swift, called “Talkin ‘Bout.” Her on-stage energy really kicked in during this song. Marince showed off her dynamic vocal range while covering Carrie Underwood’s “Some Hearts,” and she hit the high note at the end flawlessly. And one of Marince’s shining moments came while she covered Carolyn Dawn Johnson’s “Complicated.” There was something very alluring about her vocal performance, and the way she shifted from soft vocals to powerful notes was as good as it gets. On top of that, she really saved the best for last, with her newly recorded song, or as she said, her “world premiere” of a new song called “Touch.” That song will definitely be a hit, and you may soon hear it on country radio. When you do, you’ll want to hear it again. It was a perfect way to wrap up her set. Brynn Marie Cirota took the stage next with her guitarist, John Stangry, and her brother Ryan Cirota playing bongos. The group      ");
array_files[135]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/050208rrt.htm","2008-06-06","31K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder May 2, 2008 *I have read some interesting pieces of information the last few weeks regarding some issues during this election cycle. There are two common denominators that come forth and both are making me wonder where we are headed as a country. The two Democratic candidates, in some form or another, are campaigning on the basis that the government is going to help solve your problems. This is supported by an article I saw in a magazine about how big government is back and may be back for good. That scares me. I am conservative with a tilt toward being a libertarian. I do not want the government intruding into my life. Why others want the government to solve their, and our, problems is beyond me, but that is their decision and their preference. As these candidates make their way to Indiana, I found out over the weekend that the Indiana voters are very much for keeping the government out of their lives. I cannot say that I blame them. Which candidate this favors will be very interesting. The other side of that coin is that everyone seems to think we should be on a level playing field in terms of working classification. Since when do we punish people for being successful? Don’t we tell our children to make something out of themselves and become successful at that? Then why do we seem intent on punishing those who have worked hard to get where they are at? I come from a working class, union family, so no one is going to tell me anything about middle class, or working people. I grew up in this environment and it is something I am very proud of. The work ethic was planted early, although I have learned to work smarter, and not harder, as I have gotten older. However, my father told me, as I have stated in the past, that he wanted to me to use my head to make a living and not to use my back. He did not want me to suffer through physical impairments like he did. For that, I am also very grateful and remember it everyday. Yes, the majority      ");
array_files[136]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/042508sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","31K"," SPORTS BEAT     ","",""," SPORTS BEAT SPORTS BEAT By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder April 25, 2008 This weekend is the 2008 NFL Draft starting at 3:00 p.m. Saturday with the first two rounds and concluding on Sunday with the final five rounds. This year, each team will receive 10 minutes to use their first round picks, seven minutes for their second round picks, and five minutes for each pick thereafter. This is going to be one of the most intriguing drafts in a long time due to the fact that there are only a very few marquee players available, based on prognosticators, yet it is very deep at a number of positions, including wide receiver, both lines, and at cornerback. The top players being discussed this year, in no particular order, are Matt Ryan, Jake Long, Chris Long, Glenn Dorsey, and Darren McFadden. Those five could go in any order at the beginning of the draft, and there are a few who could fall out of the top five. Jake Long signed with the Miami Dolphins at press time. This brings us to your 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers. With the departure of Alan Faneca, everyone seems to think they are going to go offensive line with their first round pick. To paraphrase Lee Corse from College Football’s Gameday on ESPN on Saturday mornings in the fall, “Not so fast, my friend.” Let’s begin with the fact the draft is an inexact science. Beginning with the offensive line, the Steelers drafted Leon Searcy during Bill Cowher’s first draft, then they went on to draft Jamain Stephens, Alan Faneca, and Kendall Simmons, all offensive linemen. Of those picks, only Faneca was a Pro Bowl player who went on to have a stellar career with the Steelers. Searcy left via free agency for Jacksonville; Stephens got himself cut after not being able to complete wind sprints on the first day of training camp during his third season, and the jury is still out on Simmons, despite his bout with diabetes. Drafting an offensive lineman is not a sure thing, nor will it pay off immediately. While the Steelers do have a need at this spot on the team, it is not as drastic      ");
array_files[137]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/050208draft.htm","2008-06-06","29K"," Notes from the NFL Draft     ","",""," Notes from the NFL Draft Notes from the NFL Draft By Geoffrey Baron The Weekly Recorder May 2, 2008 Our reporter was present this week for the first two rounds of the NFL draft, here are his impressions from being on the scene. Pick #6, New York Jets pick Gholston. The Jets fans actually CHEERED for a pick for once! Jets fans happy about their team’s draft choice, now I’ve seen it all! Pick #7, New England...the place was booing and screaming “CHEEE-TERS!!! CHEEE-TERS!!!” as soon as they were on the clock, classic! I think they lost their guy by trading down to New Orleans. They didn’t get tremendous value in return, getting only the 10 pick and a 3rd rounder, given how events then transpired(as noted below) I would call this a rare misstep for them. Pick #8, Ravens trade to Jax for #26, 71, 89, and 125 picks. I figured before the draft that if the Ravens could’t get Ryan or one of the other “big 7” by some luck then they would trade down, as the dropoff after Sedrick Ellis was substantial so the 8 pick is probably one of the worst picks to have in the round(will have to pay someone 8 pick money who doesn’t deserve it). I think this was a masterful trade and I think that Jax gave up way too much to secure Harvey. The journalists near me(I was seated next to Philly/Delaware area journalists) were all incredulous at how much they gave up. The Ravens were looking super smart at this point. Pick #9, Cincy takes Rivers. This took me by surprise because everyone expected they might trade down with Ellis gone. The funny thing about this pick is that this is the guy NE wanted and probably thought they would get after trading down with New Orleans, but since NO took Ellis it forced the Bengals to take a linebacker instead. Sucks to be Rivers, he goes to the zoo instead of to the presumptive 2009 SB favorite. Pick #18, Texans trade to Ravens for their 26 pick and a 3rd rounder and a 6th rounder. Ravens take Flacco. This whole situation has me seeing Kyle Boller all over again, I don’t care that Kiper thinks he’s he’s th      ");
array_files[138]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/042508rrt.htm","2008-06-06","31K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder April 25, 2008 *I don’t know about the rest of the populace, but I am so glad this primary election is over. I am tired about how these candidates are going to solve all of our problems on their first day in office (no, this is not possible, but I am making a point). Ever since I was old enough to understand these election races and what these candidates were talking about, I have heard the same thing year after year after year. They promise us the world, yet they can’t deliver a single promise because the rest of Washington D.C. won’t let them. I don’t care what side of the aisle you’re on, no one is going to change anything until the atmosphere in Washington D.C. changes, and that is not going to happen. We won’t have to listen to any more drivel, or watch any more advertisements, until the fall. Thank goodness for satellite television. *I have found myself doing a lot of reminiscing lately as several parts of my childhood are starting to fade into memory. Granted, even at my relatively young age, I have seen a lot in my short time on this earth. As I stated some time ago in another column, my family did not have money (meaning that it was not at a premium). We had what we needed, which makes me appreciate a lot more what I have today and I try to take care of those things as best I can. Television was, and is, our primary source of entertainment. So I grew up with the old actors, actresses, and entertainers of yesteryear. Now, they are all almost gone. The most recent death was that of Charlton Heston. I remember watching him when I was a child in the move Planet of the Apes. Of course, most remember him from, among others, The Ten Commandments. I remember the Rat Pack of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Joey Bishop, and Peter Lawford. Most notably, the first three. Now, they are all gone. I mentioned Evel Knievel a few weeks ago. The football team I grew up with in the 1970s, the Pittsburgh Steelers, are now in their      ");
array_files[139]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/041808sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","33K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat SPORTS BEAT By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 *As of this writing, the Pittsburgh Penguins have put the Ottawa Senators on the brink of elimination, winning Monday night 4 – 1 and taking a 3 – 0 lead in the series. It is very likely the Penguins may have closed out the series by the time this column went to deadline and production. The way they have been playing, it appears they may be almost unstoppable. Unlike last year, when the Pens went to the playoffs for the first time since 2001, this team is much more prepared for the playoff run, and perhaps more mentally than just physically. It takes a certain mentality to play playoff hockey. It requires a grind of playing nearly every other day, four straight series, including the Stanley Cup Finals, and winning 16 games to do it. This team is starting to click, with most everyone back from injuries. The chemistry is starting to take shape where players are beginning to know where their teammates are going to be and what they are going to do. Also, this is a very tight team. Teammates are standing up for one another. Chemistry in the locker room is just as important as the play on the ice. It starts with captain Sidney Crosby and continues throughout the team. When teammates genuinely like each other and enjoy being around each other, it shows, on and off the ice. As of Monday evening, the Pittsburgh Pirates won a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on the west coast, coming from behind to do it. That win put them above .500 with a record of 7 – 6. While this is not cause for running out and buying playoff tickets, at least it appears the franchise is starting to make inroads. However, with the Penguins playing the way they are during the playoffs, this is the perfect opportunity for the Pirates to continue playing good, sound, fundamental baseball and continue their competitive, if not winning, ways. The Penguins, right now, are the best thing for the Pirates. Give them time to get back on track and field a competitive team, somethin      ");
array_files[140]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/042508joel.htm","2008-06-06","26K"," Previews and Reviews - Bily Joel     ","",""," Previews and Reviews - Bily Joel Previews and Reviews By Steve Chess The Weekly Recorder April 25, 2008 Billy Joel hasn’t released a new album in 15 years. As he confessed at his April 18th show at Mellon Arena, “I guess it was a good career move.” The show was sold out. The capacity audience spanned three generations...each equally enthusiastic. The set opened with, “Prelude/Angry Young Man.” Joel already had them in the palm of his hand. Five numbers into the set was, “Zanzibar,” Which really kicked the show into high gear. We might well have been sitting in New Morning(Paris) or the Blue Note(New York City). This was first rate Jazz. Particularly outstanding on this song were the solos performed by Carl Fischer, first on fluegal horn, then on trumpet. A little throat spray and it was off to “New York State of Mind.” This performance (of the song) seemed more contemplative than past performances, which had almost a sense of swagger. “She’s Always A Woman” had hundreds of female voices singing in unison (though, at least an octave higher). On “Movin’ Out(Anthony’s Song),” saxman, Mark Rivera played a trumpet for part of the song, then later grabbed his tenor sax and played beside percussionist,Crystal Taliefero on alto sax and Carl Fischer on his tenor sax for a dynamic visual as well as audio effect. “You May Be Right” afforded all the opportunity for all present to enjoy blistering solos by guitarist, Tommy Byrnes and tenor(this night) saxman, Mark Rivera. Joel got to stretch his legs and strum a six string guitar while singing “A Matter Of Trust.” He danced with the mic stand while singing “Still Rock And Roll To Me” and spun the stand like a baton during the tenor sax solo of the song. The 58 year old Billy Joel performed his up tempo numbers with the same characteristic passion and enthusiasm that one might have witnessed from the artist at 35. Billy Joel’s musical powers, both vocal and keyboard, appear to have remained solid. He isn’t known as the “Piano Man” for nothing. Appropriately, “Piano Man” was      ");
array_files[141]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/041808rrt.htm","2008-06-06","33K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 *The underlying themes of this column have always been common sense and personal responsibility. They will continue to be. However, I, like everyone else, make mistakes. Too many to count at times, but I can also admit to my errors. Life is not easy, especially now with the economy in the shape it is in. We are all trying to make ends meet and it is becoming difficult, at times, to do that. Yet, we must always fight the good fight and do right by the people we love and are responsible for. That isn’t always easy, either, but do it we must. We still live in the land of opportunity, despite some opinions to the contrary. As long as we are not willing to sell our souls, for any reason, we will escape this latest bout of adversity we are dealing with. A country is only as strong as its people. Take care of yourselves and each other. Together, all of us, we will prevail. *A trend that I have been noticing quite a bit lately, and even longer than that, is that I believe we have lost our way. To be more specific, living in this era of political correctness, I feel we have lost the ability to laugh at ourselves and we have been taking ourselves way too seriously. Someone says something that offends us and all bets are off. We immediately tell the offender that what was said was disturbing and we act as if we have been violated. One method of our survival is our ability to laugh at our imperfections. It used to be that we could make fun of ourselves and people would laugh along with us. Now, we are wound so tight that we are missing out on the finer things in life, and laughter is one of them. Whomever coined the adage “Laughter is the best medicine” hit the nail on the head. The ability to laugh, at something funny or at ourselves, I feel , is the key to living and life. Some of us have our shoes tied so tight that we don’t know how to breathe, let alone laugh. One of the reasons why a former Pittsburgh Steeler and Hall of Fa      ");
array_files[142]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/041808bitpa.htm","2008-06-06","29K"," One Nation Under Bitter Pennsylvania?     ","",""," One Nation Under Bitter Pennsylvania? One Nation Under Bitter Pennsylvania? By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 In school one of the first things we learn is the “Pledge of Allegiance,” which states we are “One nation under God.” For some reason Senator Barak Obama seems to think hate and bitterness goes along with believing in God. Over the last month not only has it come to the public’s attention that he belonged to a church that preached this belief, but also he recently made a statement concerning the residents of Pennsylvania calling their commitment to religion clinging. Obama talks a good game about uniting us, but continues to critique our differences. If there is anyone out there that is unaware of what I am talking about, Obama told an audience in San Francisco that people in small Pennsylvania towns are bitter over what has happened to them since the loss of manufacturing jobs and a bad economy. Because of this bitterness we cling to guns and religion, and have problems with immigrants. Well Mr. Obama, I hate to tell you this but with your latest statement you have lost Pennsylvania. Do we like guns here, absolutely, but we did long before the economy took a turn for the worse. In Western Pennsylvania, we are a community where hunting and football are our main sports. Our local school districts offer hunters safety and have rifle teams. The first day of hunting season has become an in service day in the schools. And I’m sure a majority of Pennsylvania, with the exception of the Philly area, is the same way. But Philly has their own gun problem, and not in a sporting way. In a country where the issue of gun control lost Al Gore the presidency, why would you even say that? They are calling you an élitist, I agree, but I also call that poor judgement. Do you really think your ready to meet with world leaders? If you can’t relate to people in your own country how are you going to relate to them? Then when Hillary took advantage of you bad judgement and told crowds how she was taught to sh      ");
array_files[143]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/041808ballot.htm","2008-06-06","34K"," Three democrats to look for on the Democratic ballot     ","",""," Three democrats to look for on the Democratic ballot Three democrats to look for on the Democratic ballot By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder April 18, 2008 This may be the first time in a long time where masses will come out to vote in a Presidential Primary. Usually the race is decided long before Pennsylvania’s vote comes along. With a tight race for the Democratic nominee, Democrats will be out in full force voting. This year they also have several choices for other positions including delegates for the convention. Because most of these seats are not limited to local positions like state representatives and state senators many of the candidates are less known. Over the past month I have had the opportunity to speak to several of the democratic candidates. Steve Lucas- Delegate for Hillary Clinton 12th District The first was Steve Lucas, a Student at Penn State Main Campus that is running as a delegate in the 12th district. Lucas traveled to Washington and Jefferson College to see President Bill Clinton and to Solider and Sailors field to cheer on Hillary. Lucas is an oddity, a young person who is supporting Hillary. Lucas is running to get one of the delegate seats for Pennsylvania. Because the way the state is divided Lucas is running in parts of at least three counties. As a college student it makes it hard for him to get out and campaign. But that’s also why he’s the perfect candidate. If this election comes down to delegates and super delegates at the convention, wouldn’t Hillary supporters want someone young who can talk to the groups she needs. Lucas knows the candidates and their policies. He can give a compelling argument to those young people supporting Obama. As a sophomore at Penn State Lucas has seen an overwhelming support for Obama, and realizes what it is the other students see in him. Lucas said that he represents a breath of fresh air that they fell they need. However Lucas feels that Hillary, “Can be the agent of change that we need.” He feels that students are attracted to Obama’s ideolo      ");
array_files[144]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/041108rrt.htm","2008-06-06","32K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts Richs Random Thoughts By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder April 11, 2008 *GOVERNMENT IS NOT THE ANSWER TO OUR PROBLEMS! The Pennsylvania Primary is a week and a half away and it seems like the candidates are trying to brainwash us into thinking that good old Uncle Sam is just going to swoop in and take care of all of our problems. I think it’s time for a wake up call. The only thing the government can, and should, do is get out of the way and let people make their own choices, their own decisions. On my ISP last week, there was a survey that stated that 81 percent of the country feels we are heading, if not going, in the wrong direction. Okay, I can see that we have issues we need to deal with. The Iraq war is extremely unpopular, but we need to allow our people in uniform to complete the job they were sent over there to do. I touched on this a few weeks ago and, despite many opinions to the contrary, we must not allow those who have given their lives in this war to have died in vain. The economy is showing signs of a recession, unless it is already in a recession, and it may very well be headed in that direction. The price of everything has gone up because of the skyrocketing gas prices. If you haven’t already noticed, the costs of everyday products have gone up, so it might be prudent to clip coupons, both in your newspapers (if you get one) and online, if you have access. Every little bit helps. Yes, the economy is taking a beating, but we are blaming the wrong individual. Whether you realize it or not, the president does not have much control over the economy. The president can ask for tax cuts, and those surely help. Two thirds of the economy is predicated on consumer spending. If we aren’t spending money, the economy suffers. Right now, we aren’t spending money because it is going for gas and food. Until, and unless, those two items change for the better, we are going to be in the tank for a while. Granted, the housing markets and the credit crunch have also hurt the economy. People       ");
array_files[145]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/041108sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","32K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat SPORTS BEAT By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder April 11, 2008 *Last week, Ken Bonnell responded to my remarks about Terrelle Pryor, which was in response to something he had written earlier. Ken, we can agree to disagree on this matter. When I mentioned that Pryor did not seek the spotlight, that was a quote from the young man, not me. He said as much during his press conference when he announced he was going to Ohio State. My point is this – I work with kids like Pryor everyday. Yes, they seek attention. These are kids going through adolescence and do not always make the right decisions. We are still talking about kids who are 17 and 18 years of age making decisions that are going to affect, at least, the next four years of their lives, provided they do not exit college early for the NFL or NBA drafts. That is another matter entirely. Pryor ran afoul of the law on some occasions and I do not condone that. He made many mistakes during the basketball season by falling for the taunts from opposing crowds. He should have done not that, either. By all accounts, this is a good kid who made mistakes while going through the recruiting process, and we all know what kind of a meat market that is. I don’t blame the kid for having every camera and microphone in his face. He is physically and athletically gifted and his talents were on display every Friday night for the last four years. Again, it was not fair to the kid for us to demand that he make his college decision on our timeline. I don’t care what your source/s told you. If his dad persuaded him to go to Ohio State, so be it. I believe that was a proper choice. Jim Tressel is an outstanding football coach and Ohio State is a tremendous university. I believe there are two words why Pryor did not go to Penn State – Joe Paterno. JoePa is a legend, but his future plans are tying a lot of things up. There is no guarantee that Tom Bradley is JoePa’s heir apparent. Pryor wanted to go somewhere where the coach was going to be there his entire career. There is n      ");
array_files[146]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/041108obama.htm","2008-06-06","31K"," Is Obama the Next George Bush?     ","",""," Is Obama the Next George Bush? IS OBAMA THE NEXT GEORGE BUSH? By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder April 11, 2008 As the United States sinks deeper and deeper into what may be another depression it befuddles me that scores of democrats who are crying for a change from the Bush administration may be endorsing and voting for a man who is the better spoken democratic equal of President Bush. Senator Barack Obama is the more charismatic grammatically inclined version of the man who is now running our country. The similarities are all there, but are being ignored by the media and the citizens. Obama, like the last two Bush campaigns is playing off of the fears and concerns of voters with no real merit behind what he is saying. In Bush’s first campaign Vice-President Al Gore was faced with the rumor that he was for gun control. That was not an issue with Gore but was put out there by the republicans to take away states where gun control would be an issue. Senator John Kerry faced issues on flip flopping, being criticized as an undeserving war hero and a supporter of gay marriages. Ideas again all proposed and distorted by the Republican Party. You may ask, how is Obama doing this? In his most recent commercials Obama says that he has never taken money from an oil company, insinuating that the other candidates may have. However, no one can legally take money from an oil company for their campaign, which means none of them have. What Obama doesn’t tell the public is he has received 213,000 in donations from oil company employees according to Senator Hillary Clinton’s staff. People that work for the oil companies also happen to be involved with Obama’s campaign. Who currently has ties with oil companies and is running our country? Obama may not be lying but he’s misleading the public to believe that he is above what the others are not. And with all the money he as raised for his campaign I highly doubt it’s all or mostly come from middle class citizens who are struggling to make ends meet, and even his Hollywood followi      ");
array_files[147]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/041108clinton.htm","2008-06-06","30K"," Like many women before her, is Hillary’s obstacle her sex?     ","",""," Like many women before her, is Hillary’s obstacle her sex? Like many women before her, is Hillary’s obstacle her sex? By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder April 11, 2008 Last weekend I took a trip to the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and ironically was subjected to a weekend filled with feminism. It was on this trip that I gained more respect for the obstacles faced by Senator Hillary Clinton as a woman. And although Hillary never brings up the gender that plagues her, the reality of it is in America, women still remain the overlooked majority. In other countries around the world women have been elected to equal positions for decades. Margaret Thatcher in England, Imelda Marcos in the Philippines, and in India where women have less standing then men Indira Gandhi became Prime Minister in 1964. Over the last 200 years, England has been mainly ruled by Queens. Why then is America, the land of opportunity and equality, not ready for a woman? Hillary would not have been my first choice for the first female presidential or democratic candidate. The truth be told, I swore to my friends I would never vote for her. Like most people that I talk to, as a feminist I’ve held a grudge over her commitment to her husband after endless sexual scandals. I was bothered by the fact that she would be the first woman to represent women. Over the last week, while researching an artist whose exhibit I was going to view, I saw striking similarities between the two women. That, along with my recent encounters with Hillary, has changed my view of the woman that she is. While viewing the movie Frida, about the late Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, who also had a famous husband, Diego Rivera, that was unfaithful through their entire marriage. She knew when she married him, by his own admission, that he could never be faithful. But their love was about their relationship. Their mutual respect for one another. They became friends through their art and their political beliefs. I think back to the day when I heard President C      ");
array_files[148]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/041108frida.htm","2008-06-06","30K"," Philadelphia Museum of Art Hosts Frida Kahlo exhibit     ","",""," Philadelphia Museum of Art Hosts Frida Kahlo exhibit Philadelphia Museum of Art Hosts Frida Kahlo exhibit By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder April 11, 2008 What could I possibly have in common with a Mexican woman born at the beginning of the 20th century? After watching the movie “Frida” and touring the Frida Kahlo exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art I realized it was more than being 5’2 and if not for wax, the possibility of a uni-brow. As always the Philadelphia Museum of Art puts on a show that is educational and moving. The only East Coast venue for the first Frida Kahlo Exhibit in 15 years, the exhibition runs through May 18, and offers an audio tour that takes you from her first works to her last. By the end of a tour, which takes about an hour and a half, you will leave with not only knowing who Frida is but how she developed as an artist and how she came to be a feminist icon decades after her death. But who is Frida Kahlo? Born in Mexico to mother of Mexican Indian and Spanish decent and a German father, Frida struggled to identify with her heritage her whole life. Her paintings reflect the influence and love she had for Mexican art and tradition. As a young girl Frida suffered from polio and spent a lot of time in bed. As a young adult while attending school she was in an accident that left her bedridden for 2-years. Because of her strong will and determination Frida regained the ability to walk again. It was during this time that her father brought her painting supplies and placed a mirror over her bed. Because she was her first subject matter, Frida’s first work is of herself. Most of her work, because of related problems she suffered for the rest of her life, was self-portraits that tell the story of her life. Although the gaze may be the same it’s the elements around her, or how she portrays herself in the pictures that changes. Like most lives her paintings start out plain with little going on. As she experiences life the images become more complicated and detailed. Frida did not paint f      ");
array_files[149]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/040808mcguinn.htm","2008-06-06","29K"," Previews and Reviews - Roger McGuinn     ","",""," Previews and Reviews - Roger McGuinn Previews and Reviews Roger McGuinn By Steve Chess The Weekly Recorder April 4, 2008 By the time the Byrds released their first #1 hit single (Mr. Tambourine Man) in June of 1965, the 23 year old Roger (Jim) McGuinn was already a veteran of the music industry. He had been a sideman for the Limelighters, the Chad Mitchell Trio, Judy Collins, Simon and Garfunkel and Bobby Darin. The Bob Dylan Folk tune (Mr. Tambourine Man) had been written in the Folksy 2/4 time signature. At the behest of fellow Byrds member, David Crosby, McGuinn rearranged the song to include 4/4 time (for more of a Beatles feel), omitted most of the verses and added a Bach-like intro on his electric Rickenbacker 360 guitar. The song was a hit and an important milestone in modern music history was established. On Saturday, March 29th, the Pittsburgh Folk Music Society (Calliope) brought Roger McGuinn to the Carnegie Lecture Hall in Oakland for a solo concert. The venue (on the opposite side of the museum) provided a wonderful opportunity to watch this gentle soul perform in an intimate environment. A devout Christian since 1977,refrains from strident proselytization, but his spiritual demeanor seems to permeate everything he does. Opening for McGuinn was Folk singer/activist/attorney, Anne Feeney. Her material was decidedly left leaning, but well meaning. Feeney has performed in 42 States and 5 or more countries and is quite entertaining to watch. When Roger McGuinn arrived on stage with his trademark jangly sounding Rickenbacker 360, 12-string guitar, the capacity crowd erupted into jubilant cheers and applause. The song was “My Back Pages,” which includes the lines, “Ah, but I was so much older then, I’m younger than that now.” The choice of opening song seemed highly appropriate given that the still clear, sweet vocal tone sounded much as it did when he (now 65) was a kid with the Byrds. McGuinn’s set was rich with well-told stories of events surrounding and behind the music that he was performing. Throu      ");
array_files[150]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/040408rrt.htm","2008-06-06","32K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts Richs Random Thoughts By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder April 4, 2008 *Part of what I do as an educator, in addition to all of the other responsibilities I have taken on, is cover Saturday morning detention. I am on a schedule and cover it on an occasional basis. If my count is correct, this past Saturday was the fifth detention I have covered. It is three hours, 8 – 11, in the morning, which means those who are on the roster, and who bother to show up, lose three hours of their Saturdays because of any infraction they committed. It can be something as small as being late to class to cursing or talking, depending on the teacher and what s/he considers something worthy of a detention. However, I have noticed, and this goes back to my days in school, that we have an alarming trend going on today. The number of boys (young men) who are on the roster for detention is at a troubling rate and I am wondering why. Of course, I have my theories and opinion on this matter. There are those who will say “Boys will be boys.” Well, in my book, that just isn’t good enough. As I have mentioned several times in past columns, I had a price to pay if I got out of line, and that was from my dad. Simply put, detention would have been the kiss of death in my home. Not only are we experiencing a growing number of boys in detention, some of them are repeaters, meaning they are consistently in detention. This is of grave concern to me, being a man, because these boys are supposed to be the leaders of tomorrow, or at least productive citizens in our future society, yet they are causing themselves, and others, trouble and paying that price by being in detention. I am finishing my sixth year as an educator and the other trend I am finding is that, in most cases, girls and young ladies are much more active in school activities than are boys. About the only club where boys far outnumber girls is the Rod and Gun Club. I sponsor our prom and I have worked with a far greater number of girls than I have boys. As a matter      ");
array_files[151]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/040408sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","32K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat Sports Beat By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder April 4, 2008 *Baseball season started this week and I can honestly say that I actually watched parts of games as the week wore on. Not an entire game, mind you, but enough to attempt to develop an old/new appreciation for the game that gave me so many great memories from the 1970s and 1980s. However, one issue that scared me was the fact that two magazines I subscribe to, Sports Illustrated and Sporting News, each had a baseball preview issue and I could not name more than five baseball players throughout the majors without looking at the publications. This is what baseball has come to for me, and that bothers me. I used to know at least one player on each team, and several on a number of teams. Now, I know very few. As I stated in a column a few weeks back, baseball is a beautiful game. In its purest form, I do love baseball, although it will never overtake football on my list of favorite sports. But I did manage to watch part of the game last Sunday night between the Washington Nationals and the Atlanta Braves. The Nationals were christening their new ballpark and two of the best announcers in the business, Jon Miller and Joe Morgan, were broadcasting the game. Those two, alone, are enough to make me tune in. Both are tremendously knowledgeable and make the broadcast enjoyable. However, I wonder how many in this area paid much attention to the beginning of the baseball season, now that the Penguins are in the Stanley Cup playoffs and, at the time of this writing, were battling for the Atlantic Division title and first place in the Eastern Conference, assuring them of home ice advantage throughout the playoffs, at least until the Stanley Cup Finals. I hope this edition of the Pirates breaks the losing streak and restores respectability and credibility to baseball in Pittsburgh. We are all tired of the losing. *One of my contemporaries in this business, Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, wrote a column on Penguins Head Coach Michel Therrien and       ");
array_files[152]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/040408clinton.htm","2008-06-06","33K"," Why Hillary Needs the MTV Generation     ","",""," Why Hillary Needs the MTV Generation Why Hillary Needs the MTV Generation By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder April 4, 2008 It occurred to me this evening while watching one of my few indulgences, an MTV reality awards show about the “Real World”, that over ten years ago it was former President Bill Clinton who wooed the original MTV generation with his appearance on the cable music channel. In this new decade and millennium, Senator Hillary Clinton is fighting to win over the new MTV generation against Senator Barack Obama. How can she win back a demographic that helped her husband years ago? Watching the award show for me put a lot of things into perspective. There were 20 seasons of the “Real World,” which helped launch reality television in the United States, that were voted on for the awards show. By the end of the program I realized that although there were some moments in the first years of the show that were nominated and won, most of the clips were from shows that aired over the last few years. But for today’s MTV viewers they were the seasons that they can remember and recognize. It wasn’t the best moments or people the fans voted on, it was the ones they could associate with. MTV was known for music videos at one time. Now try to find one on the network. They had news anchors and shows. They discussed politics. Now they mainly consist of reality shows. As in everything else in life thing’s change, but marketing doesn’t. Just as President Clinton was able to work his magic by appealing to the younger generation that grew up with President Reagan and the first President Bush, we wanted “change” too. We had experienced the recession in the 80’s along with interest rates that were in double digits. Bush put us into the first Iraq war. We wanted someone who understood what was going on and gave us hope for the future, someone that we could relate to. That is exactly what Obama is saying to reach this generation. A generation facing a war, a poor job market and the inability to see what we need to have a       ");
array_files[153]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/032808rrt.htm","2008-06-06","31K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts Richs Random Thoughts By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder March 28, 2008 *This week, the Iraq war hit another important milestone, 4000 U.S. soldiers now dead. I know that number seems extremely high to the public, but it pales in comparison to those who were lost at Pearl Harbor, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and 9/11. First, let me state that losing our men and women in uniform is never cause for any kind of celebration. Yet, we must not allow those who have given their lives for this cause to have died in vain. This is why this war must continue to be fought for the ultimate victory for our soldiers, the Iraqis, and the United States of America. I want to take this one step further. In the cries from all of those who want this war to end and for our soldiers to come home, most of those people have never stepped foot into Iraq and the war zone. Yet, they want this war to end for self-fulfilling purposes. Most of them do not have the courage or the bravery of our young men and women in uniform who, without hesitation and without fail, continue to fight this war against extremists, insurgents, and terrorism. The very same groups who would do us harm on U.S. soil. Our service people even fight to allow those who protest this war to continue their cause. Talk about the ultimate oxymoron. This war is an unpopular war for its duration and for the numbers of those lost in battle and attacks. But, I have never heard of a war that was popular with the people. No one wants to see our young people die in battle. But, war was necessary in the aforementioned conflicts due to dictators and the advance of communism in selected states. Since America is the ultimate example of freedom, independence, and liberty, these countries asked for our help. In some cases we won, in others we failed. But none was without the utmost effort of our troops in the field. In those instances where we lost, it was because of a government that would not allow our troops to succeed in the field. Power and pol      ");
array_files[154]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/032808sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","31K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat Sports Beat By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder March 28, 2008 *Unfortunately, over the course of the last several weeks (months, actually, going back to January), our Pittsburgh Steelers have been in the news for all of the wrong reasons. First, it was Najeh Davenport and his girlfriend in, of all places, Cleveland and a domestic dispute regarding their child. It continued with Cedrick Wilson in January after an argument with his girlfriend at his home. He left the residence and she held police at bay for roughly 11 hours. Earlier this month, James Harrison (Team MVP) was involved in a domestic dispute with his girlfriend, again, over a child. Wilson was involved in another incident with his girlfriend, this time at a bar, and was arrested for his actions. All three incidents have become a case of he said, she said. All have involved children at some point. However, of the three, only Wilson was released by the team in what owner and chairman Dan Rooney described as intolerance towards domestic violence and, more specifically, violence towards women. Davenport is scheduled for trial in April. First, I don’t think anyone, myself included, tolerates any kind of violence against women and children. It is just plain wrong and should never be tolerated. However, Rooney painted himself into a proverbial corner when he released Wilson and kept Harrison (Team MVP and star linebacker versus serviceable wide receiver). He then released a statement that each situation would be handled on a case by case basis. The flame turned into a fire and Rooney struggled to put it out. I do not know all of the particulars of any of the aforementioned situations, nor do I want to. But, based on what I do know about Wilson and his girlfriend, it appears the two of them deserve each other. It seems both of them have some severe issues they need to work through and that this should be a private matter. Wilson lost his job and will most likely hook up with another team before training camps open in July. Athletes, and football      ");
array_files[155]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/032108sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","30K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat Sports Beat By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder March 21, 2008 As of this writing, two of our area’s sports teams have been getting red hot. The Pitt Panthers basketball team won four straight games to win the Big East Conference Tournament at Madison Square Garden in New York City. They secured a four seed in the NCAA Tournament and will have played a first round game against Oral Roberts University on Thursday. I have to admit that I have watched very little college basketball this year, even though I prefer it over pro basketball, of which I have watched none. This Pitt team is capable of doing some real damage in the tournament, or it could get eliminated in the first round. The Pittsburgh Penguins have been on a roll as of late and the most impressive thing about that is the fact that they have done it despite a rash of injuries to some key players, including superstar center, and franchise player, Sidney Crosby. Those who have played in the absence of these key players have stepped up their games and made an impact on the ice. Some have even said the team may be playing better in Crosby’s absence. We need to be careful when making such a statement. When Mario Lemieux, now the team’s CEO and Chairman, was the team’s franchise player, he suffered through some major injuries, including those to his back and his bout with Hodgkin’s Disease. Those who stepped in, and stepped up, in his absence helped to carry the team while he recovered. However, it was behind Lemieux that the team won two Stanley Cups in the early 1990s. He was surrounded by a pretty impressive cast and they did their jobs well but, without Lemieux, those Cups would not have been won. Evgeni Malkin was going to be this team’s franchise player when he was drafted second overall in 2004, one year before the Penguins “landed” the rights to draft Crosby. Malkin has picked up his game, having scored his 40th and 41st goals this past Sunday against the Philadelphia Flyers. Even though he does not wear a letter on his sweater, he has eme      ");
array_files[156]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/032108wrestling.htm","2008-06-06","26K"," Wraslin Round-Up     ","",""," Wraslin Round-Up WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP By Jerry W. Seaman The Weekly Recorder March 21, 2008 hebarnwrestling@yahoo.com DAPPER DAN WRESTLING CLASSIC Pittsburgh——Senior Dan Conley finished out his scholastic career in front of the hometown crowd Saturday night in the Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic at the Fitzgerald Field House. Dan and the rest of the WPIAL boys put a beating on Team Wisconsin 36-15, which was a lot better than the PA Team. Team USA pounded them for the seventh time in a row by a score of 28-12. Conley, who was included in the Classic late by a short oversight (he wrestles at 215 pounds) put on a great show. You could tell that he was enjoying this match. He got his opponent, Jake Little, Neenah, Wisc. moving into his single to a double-leg lift and slammed him on his back for a five point move. It looked like a sure pin but he didn’t get the call. He won with a 5-1 decision. Coach, Terry Havelka couldn’t want a better young man than Dan Conley, his first ever State Champion from Burgettstown High School Havelka was just named the Coach of the Year by the Observer-Reporter All-District Wrestling Team and Dan Conley was named the Outstanding Wrestler. Our congratulations to them both, they earned it. When you got the whole United States to chose a wrestling team they ought to be good. This year was one heck of a good one. Team USA had a total of thirty-six state titles with four individuals that had four each. Tyler Graff, Loveland, CO was a four timer with a 167-1 record. He got his second loss of his career in the final match of the evening when Jordan Oliver, Easton Area, defeated him 3-1 in OT. Colin Johnston, senior from Canon-McMillan, had a good one at 135 for the USA Team. Mark Weber Goodrich, MI, came in with a record of 224-7 plus four state titles. Colin wrestled the best I’ve seen him this year. He went after Weber with his style of wrestling. He set him up and hit his shots off his feet but he couldn’t handle Weber’s power. Weber took a 5-3 decision. Homer Marshall, from the famous Burgett      ");
array_files[157]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/032108rrt.htm","2008-06-06","31K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts Richs Random Thoughts By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder March 21, 2008 *Being an authority figure is not easy. Of course, anyone who is of age, regardless of status, is regarded as an authority figure. Depending on your standing in society, those of us who are authority figures are looked at in certain ways. We are held to a different standard, as well we should be. Parents should not be their child/ren’s buddies. They need to be the authority figures who set the standards for the rules at home and how the children are supposed to behave and conduct themselves. If they fall out of line, then they are supposed to be punished for what they did wrong. At least, that is the way it is supposed to be (not that that always happens). Educators, of which I am one, are also held to a certain standard. We are responsible for teaching children certain subjects so that they may learn the basics, like reading, writing, math, English, science, social studies, and the like. We are charged with preparing children for elementary school, high school, and whatever their post graduation plans may be. However, some of my colleagues (non co-workers) have abused that authority by engaging in sexual relations with their students (this includes female, as well as male, teachers) and they are giving the rest of us a bad name. For them, temptation is far more important than professionalism. For that, they should surrender their teaching certificates and move onto another line of work, and one that does not involve children, of any age. This brings me to law enforcement officers or, in layman’s terms, the police. I was always brought up to respect authority figures and, especially, police officers. They are trained, and sworn, to serve, protect, and defend. Most of them do an outstanding job in this profession and deserve our respect and admiration. Yes, we get upset when we see police, both state and local, setting up speed traps, pulling people over, and writing tickets. That ticket is sure to deflate anyone’s day      ");
array_files[158]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/032108obama.htm","2008-06-06","26K"," Obama’s Continental Divide     ","",""," Obama’s Continental Divide Obama’s Continental Divide By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder March 21, 2008 I have avoided watching the news over the past months because I can only take so much talk about the candidates. Over the years I have watched the media spin words and comments that can haunt politicians the rest of their lives. People still think Al Gore said he invented the Internet because of the media. When in reality he said he was one of the first senators to work towards making laws for the new technology. But no media put a spin on what Senator Barack Obama’s former Minister said about America and race. And after taking the time to listen to his speech on Tuesday March 18, that was supposed to set the record straight on Obama, it proved to me why he shouldn’t be President. First of all he admitted to hearing sermons like these in the past. Obama stated that he disagreed with them but never said he spoke with his minister. If you couldn’t stand up to him how are you going to stand up to other countries? You were part of a congregation that hates America? You were part of a congregation that has racial tension? Second aren’t these things against the core of Christianity? You stated at the end of your speech that we should all follow the golden rule of Christianity by doing onto others, as you would want them to do onto you. Your church seems to preach a lot of discontent for this country and certain groups. If we follow the example of your church we would all hold discontent in our hearts and never have forgiveness. Third, you made the statement that things have probably been said in all of our churches by ministers or priests that we disagree with. I can honestly say that my church has never said anything anti American or against another religion or race. They teach acceptance and forgiveness and helping one another to make the world a better place. As a feminist they did offend me once by talking negatively about the book The DaVinci Code, but honestly that’s it. Forth, for a man not running his cam      ");
array_files[159]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/032108keystone.htm","2008-06-06","27K"," So Much for Being The Keystone State     ","",""," So Much for Being The Keystone State So Much for Being The Keystone State By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder March 21, 2008 In the great state of Pennsylvania we have over two months before our Primary elections. By that time the candidates for both parties will more than likely have been chosen, and our votes will be irrelevant. As a democrat I really don’t have much of a selection anyway since John Edwards pulled out of the race. Now I am forced to say something I never thought I would say, I want to see Hillary get the nomination. As a feminist my friends are always in shock that I am not a Hillary supporter. Like all politicians I don’t trust her and the way she got to be in this position. But unlike Obama, at least she has the background to be there. If I had to pick a female to run for president, other than myself, I would back Christine Todd Whitman. She was the Governor of New Jersey, and served on President Bush’s cabinet. She did resign and wrote a book shortly there after. But this is a woman who didn’t ride her husband’s coattails and didn’t suck up to the powers that be. But nobody ever knows who she is, which is never good in politics. But back to the unfortunate race at hand. We have Hillary, whose campaign has been sabotaged by the media, and Obama, who has no background to run for President. It pains me to say it but Bush had more qualifications behind him, he just doesn’t speak as pretty as Obama. With only two years in as a senator, one of which he has campaigned for president, what has he done? This is who we want running a country that is economically unstable and in the middle of a losing battle in Iraq? What’s he going to do shake the magic 8 ball? As my friend says he doesn’t say anything he just keeps talking. So the male equivalent to me. His campaign and the media has managed to make Hillary and Bill look like racist, while at the same time saying this is not an election based on race. Why then is that all they are talking about. How many white voters or African American voters ther      ");
array_files[160]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/031908frazier.htm","2008-06-06","25K"," Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory     ","",""," Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory FRAZIER-SIMPLEX BITTERSWEET VICTORY By Jim Mounts The Weekly Recorder March 19, 2008 Frazier-Simplex Rifle Club avenged two earlier losses to Dormont-Mt. Lebanon with a 1488 to 1482 win. Frazier-Simplex season record stands at 12-3. They were working towards their 22nd consecutive championship season. Its unlikely will happen. Jim Mounts, President and co-captain said “We dug ourselves a big hole with those losses and needed outside help from Murrysville, by beating Dormont-Mt. Lebanon on February 6th, which they did. We were elated and looking forward to a showdown with Dormont-Mt. Lebanon on February 27.” All three teams are the powerhouses in the Pittsburgh and Suburban Rifle leagues. Mounts adds, “I cautioned fellow team members, that we must take care of business and beat Murrysville on Feb. 20th, or the showdown will be meaningless in terms of another championship. We didn’t do that and lost by three points, thus the “Bittersweet victory”.” Top shooters for Frazier-Simplex in its win were: Joel Nuzum 299, John Husk 299, Dave Cramer 298, Tom Morley 297 and John Hupp 295. Alternate scores were: Cyril Walther 294, Thomas Kyanka 294, Doug Wilcox 294, Jim Mounts 293, Ryan Stein 292, Zac Szabo 291, Jim Husk 288, Chuck Blender 288, Rob Gagliani 285, Ken Briggs 284, Debi Page 283, and George Weiss 276. Top shooters for Dormont-Mt. Lebanon were: Dan Francis 298, Dean B. Trew 297, Amy Smith 297, Rick Janoski 295 and Tom Gerner 295. Alternate scores were: Matt Piatt 295, Jason Piatt 294, Fritz Hempleman 294, Miles Ford 291, Danielle Zimmerman 285, Chuck Hutchison 267 and Dick Larry 254. There are three matches remaining in the season. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/7/08 Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio Sports Articles Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud -      ");
array_files[161]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/031908frazier.htm","2008-06-06","25K"," Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory     ","",""," Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory FRAZIER-SIMPLEX BITTERSWEET VICTORY By Jim Mounts The Weekly Recorder March 19, 2008 Frazier-Simplex Rifle Club avenged two earlier losses to Dormont-Mt. Lebanon with a 1488 to 1482 win. Frazier-Simplex season record stands at 12-3. They were working towards their 22nd consecutive championship season. Its unlikely will happen. Jim Mounts, President and co-captain said “We dug ourselves a big hole with those losses and needed outside help from Murrysville, by beating Dormont-Mt. Lebanon on February 6th, which they did. We were elated and looking forward to a showdown with Dormont-Mt. Lebanon on February 27.” All three teams are the powerhouses in the Pittsburgh and Suburban Rifle leagues. Mounts adds, “I cautioned fellow team members, that we must take care of business and beat Murrysville on Feb. 20th, or the showdown will be meaningless in terms of another championship. We didn’t do that and lost by three points, thus the “Bittersweet victory”.” Top shooters for Frazier-Simplex in its win were: Joel Nuzum 299, John Husk 299, Dave Cramer 298, Tom Morley 297 and John Hupp 295. Alternate scores were: Cyril Walther 294, Thomas Kyanka 294, Doug Wilcox 294, Jim Mounts 293, Ryan Stein 292, Zac Szabo 291, Jim Husk 288, Chuck Blender 288, Rob Gagliani 285, Ken Briggs 284, Debi Page 283, and George Weiss 276. Top shooters for Dormont-Mt. Lebanon were: Dan Francis 298, Dean B. Trew 297, Amy Smith 297, Rick Janoski 295 and Tom Gerner 295. Alternate scores were: Matt Piatt 295, Jason Piatt 294, Fritz Hempleman 294, Miles Ford 291, Danielle Zimmerman 285, Chuck Hutchison 267 and Dick Larry 254. There are three matches remaining in the season. All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/7/08 Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio Sports Articles Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud -      ");
array_files[162]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/031408sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","29K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat SPORTS BEAT By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 At this time of the year, the Penguins are gearing up for a playoff run as they begin to finish their season and jockey for seeding in the Stanley Cup playoffs; the Pirates are in the midst of their spring training in Bradenton, Florida; and the Steelers are in preparations to ready themselves for the NFL Draft, which occurs in April. All three sports and all three activities bring a degree of excitement to the Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania region. Given that this is a football region, first, all area fans begin to wonder who the Steelers will target with their first pick in the draft, and who they will go after in the later rounds to build their team with depth. Those residents of the area who do not follow hockey and have not followed baseball all that much since the Pirates are in a 15 year losing streak, this is what they have to look forward to and they begin, in earnest, predicting who the Steelers will go after. While this is a little early for a draft column, let me state that, in general terms, the Steelers have a certain philosophy in how they conduct their draft, as Cody pointed out in an earlier issue after he attended the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. They look at character, behavioral issues, and how a player will fit in with this team and this organization. They don’t just pick a player for the sake of picking a player, regardless of position. These players become an integral part of the community, which is important to the Steelers and Rooney organization. Let me begin by saying that fans tend to think that players coming out of Pitt should be seriously considered by Steelers because they played at Pitt. While I am a Pitt fan, and was a huge Pitt fan back in the middle 1970s and into the middle 1980s when this team was a powerhouse, we have to get out of this mindset of being homers. I, for one, am not a homer. I will criticize when necessary and will praise when deserved. But I do not get caught up in       ");
array_files[163]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/031408trio.htm","2008-06-06","25K"," Alex Skolnick Trio     ","",""," Alex Skolnick Trio PREVIEWS AND REVIEWS By Steve Chess The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 By Steve Chess Gradually building a reputation for bringing obscure (and sometimes obtuse), musician’s musicians to Southwestern Pennsylvania, promoter/journalist Manny Thiener has done it once again. The venue was the hip and stylish, Club Café on Pittsburgh’s South Side. The musicians were the Alex Skolnick Trio. Skolnick, perhaps most visible these days as a seminal member and primary guitarist for the Trans Siberian Orchestra, began his career at the age of 16 with the Thrash Metal band, Testament. Even back then, he was noted for his prodigious technical skills and creative approach to the music. After a bit less than a decade with Testament, his creative bent led him onto various interesting and a few (some might say) peculiar projects and ultimately, to study Jazz at the The New School in New York City. As would any Jazzman worth his salt, Skolnick(now approaching 40) uses the musical sensibilities of his vast portfolio as grist for his improvisational mill. I do believe that he is an authentic Jazzman. There have been several rockers that have come to Jazz later in life, that just don’t seem to deliver when performing live. As the standing room only (and precious little of that) audience at the Sunday night concert can attest, The Alex Skolnick Trio does deliver. Tall, lanky and unassuming, Skolnick, his drummer (Matt Zebroski) and bassist (Nathan Peck) took the tiny stage and set about their evenings work. It just so happens that Zebroski and Peck are “local boys.” Matt Zebroski Is from Peters Township, Washington County and Nathan Peck is from a West Virginia based, Jazz family and has played with some of the finest Jazz musicians in and passing through Pittsburgh and New York City. The Trio’s set didn’t consist of the usual catalog of Jazz standards that one might expect to hear performed by a similarly assembled group. As with any cutting edge Jazz ensemble, there were a significant number of original composit      ");
array_files[164]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/031408rrt.htm","2008-06-06","29K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts Richs Random Thoughts February 29, 2008 February 15, 2008 February 8, 2008 March 7, 2008 RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Rich Briggs The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 I know the recent spate of cold and snowy winter weather has gotten on the last nerve of most people. I understand that and know that most people are ready, or past ready, for spring. Our winter has not been met with a heavy or major snow, even though we did have one snow that caused most schools to cancel back in February and make up that day at a later date. We have had intermittent snows that have mixed with rain, sleet, and freezing rain, which has made the season that much worse. Those of you feeling the winter blues and anxiously waiting for spring’s arrival, I understand and sympathize with your pain. I am one of the few who actually enjoys the cold weather. I am like a bear in hibernation because, when the weather breaks, it will be back to the age old tradition of spring cleaning, mowing lawns, washing cars, and regular household maintenance to get ready for the spring and summer months. It takes me quite a while to get myself mentally prepared for these chores and challenges. That’s why I enjoy the winter months. Having said that, I do not want to hear one person complain during the spring and summer months about the heat and humidity. I am entitled to because I dread those months. However, those of you who like the warmth and the heat, those elements are on their way. I keep hearing talk from people who have microphones shoved in their faces from the Pittsburgh media about Florida. I have been to Florida three times in my life. The most recent was the summer of 1997 and I had to go there on business. Folks, there is not one thing I liked about Florida. The heat, humidity, bugs, hurricanes, you can have all of that. It may be nice to visit, but I have no intention of ever moving there. Others may enjoy Florida – I don’t. But I am not going to rain on anyone’s parade. I have learned to pace myself during the spring and su      ");
array_files[165]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/031408hairspray.htm","2008-06-06","23K"," “Hairspray” set to play at Heinz Hall     ","",""," “Hairspray” set to play at Heinz Hall “Hairspray” set to play at Heinz Hall By Judi Panasik The Weekly Recorder March 14, 2008 Not to give away my age but I actually saw the original John Waters Hairspray movie in high school. And if you are not familiar with Water’s work, no it is never ordinary but always funny with some message behind it. But the Broadway musical has been more of a success than the original movie ever was. It’s won over 8 Tony Awards along with countless others. It has been a Broadway smash hit and has inspired the musical version of the movie. Filled with endless humor, romance and incredible music and dancing the musical is more entertainment than anyone needs in one night. Set in Baltimore in the 1960’s and based around a dance program called “The Corny Collins Show,” Hairspray the musical takes us back in time when high hair was in and political correctness was out. The main character, Tracey Turnblad, is plus-sized teenager who loves to dance. She gets the opportunity to be on the The Corny Collins Show” where she begins to overpower the reigning princess of the show with her big hair, unique fashion and kind hearted personality. But the beauty of the story isn’t just that being yourself can bring you popularity, it’s also a love story where the unlikely girl has a shot at the guy everyone wants. Hairspray is a musical older children and adults can enjoy. It’s an inspirational and heartwarming tale. It’s the type of play you take your kids to see now and then again years from now. Hairspray will be playing a limited run at Heinz Hall from March 18-22. Tickets range from 20.50 to 62. Shows on Tuesday and Wednesday will be at 7:30 P.M. Thursday there will be a matinee at 1 P.M. and another performance at 7:30. Friday the show starts at 8 P.M. and Saturday shows are at 2 P.M. and 8 P.M. You can purchase tickets by calling (412) 392-4900 or group sales at (412) 392-4819. They can also be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square or at The HAIRSPRAY web site can be found at www.pgharts.      ");
array_files[166]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/030708sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","24K"," SPORTS BEAT     ","",""," SPORTS BEAT Other Sports Articles Steelers Beat, 2/15/08 Sports Beat, 2/22/08 The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Entertainment Previews and Reviews The Sidewinder Band Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center; Wild, Wonderful West Virginia Travel Photos from the NFL Scouting Combine Goodbye Myron SPORTS BEAT By Rich Briggs March 7, 2008 One of my contemporaries in this business is John Steigerwald. He used to be on WTAE TV in his early days as a broadcaster in Pittsburgh before moving to KDKA TV in the middle 1980s, where he stayed until his contract was not renewed at the end of October 2007. He writes a weekly column for the Observer Reporter on Sundays in the sports section. He is now heard on KDKA Radio at night, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., with another Pittsburgh broadcasting legend in Scott Paulsen of, among others, WHTX (back in the middle 1980s), WDVE FM where he was a member of the morning show with Jim Krenn, WBGG Radio, back to WDVE FM, WTZN (formerly and currently B-94 FM) and now KDKA Radio. However, this week’s column is not about Paulsen and Steigerwald. This was just merely an introduction. An item that appeared in Steigerwald’s column this past Sunday was in relation to the number of sacks the Steelers’ offensive line gave up this past season and how many of those were the fault of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Yes, Ben caused a number of his own sacks by trying to make plays and holding onto the ball too long. Yet, I would still take a quarterback who is trying to make plays and help his team win than one who takes a dive in the face of adversity. Others would state otherwise and they are certainly entitled to their opinions. Steigerwald has often been a supporter of former Steelers quarterback Kordell Stewart, to the point of being an apologist. Granted, when Stewart was in Pittsburgh, he endeared himself to the fans by playing the role of Slash – quarterback/running back/wide receiver. Had Kordell s      ");
array_files[167]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/030708rrt.htm","2008-06-06","26K"," Richs Random Thoughts     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center; Wild, Wonderful West Virginia Travel Richs Random Thoughts Stevie Wonder February 29, 2008 February 15, 2008 February 8, 2008 February 1, 2008 RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Rich Briggs March 7, 2008 I was raised an only child and lived all of my life in the same manner. Not having any siblings has had its advantages and its disadvantages. I was also very fortunate to be raised in a semi-strict environment. I was told early right from wrong and good from bad and there would be a price to be paid if I did wrong. Those times I did wrong, I did pay that price. I was also fortunate to have had the friends I did while growing up. I had three close friends at that time, two of whom where four years older than me and the other three years older. They took me under their collective wings and looked after me as if I was their younger brother. I grew up fast because of these friends and matured a lot quicker than most of my peers my age. I was exposed to things at an early age that others would not be aware of until much later in their lives. The other part of being raised strict is that I did not always get everything I wanted. An example of that is video games. Back in my time, Atari was the hot item every kid seemed to have. Mattel followed that up with their own Intellivision. The video game wars were on, but Atari was the clear winner. As much as I wanted an Atari system, my father would not have it because he did not want me sitting in front of the television all day playing video games. We had arcades at the local mall and I could go there whenever I wanted with my friends and play those games there. The downside to that was the fact we had to pay to play those games and there was only so much money to go around. At some point, we had to call it quits. There was no such thing as cell phones, text messaging, and all of the technology that kids today are exposed to and always seem to have in their possession. I am not saying      ");
array_files[168]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/022908sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","25K"," Sports Beat     ","",""," Sports Beat SPORTS BEAT By Rich Briggs February 29, 2008 Baseball, in its purest form, is a beautiful game, a beautiful sport. At one time, in this country, baseball was the national pastime. Horse racing, boxing, college football, and baseball used to be the sports that ruled the sports scene in this country for the longest time at the beginning, and even into the middle, of the 20th century. Professional football never made any inroads into the public consciousness until the late 1950s when the Baltimore Colts played the New York Giants in 1958 for the NFL Championship. It was the first game ever televised and it went into overtime. That was the first time a championship game required more than regulation time to decide the final score. The Colts won that game 23 – 17. At that time, baseball had all of the characters and all of the talent. The New York Yankees were a Murderer’s Row of talent and they steamrolled their way to numerous World Series titles. Baseball was a game appreciated by the masses, as much for the beauty of the game as for those who played it. When a double play is properly executed, especially by the second baseman and the shortstop, to first, it is one of the most incredibly exciting plays in sports. When a first baseman has to extend himself with his legs and scoop a ball out of the dirt with his glove, it looks like it is done with excellent precision. An outfielder extending himself and robbing a hitter of a sure base hit is highway robbery and a pleasure to watch from the crowd, especially if it occurs in front of the home crowd. An outfielder climbing the wall to glove the ball and rob a hitter of a sure home run, especially if that would be home run can mean a difference in the score, or preserving a no hitter by the pitcher, is an exercise in grace, hustle, and heart. Plays like these are appreciated by the crowd and the media alike because of the athleticism and heart involved in making the plays look easy. A pitcher throwing a no hitter, or a perfect game, is a sight to behold.       ");
array_files[169]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/022908schmitt.htm","2008-06-06","19K"," Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again     ","",""," Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again By Cody Knotts February 29, 2008 After hours and hours of listening to players attempt to say just the right thing to the same questions, Owen Schmitt walked into the room. Schmitt is justly defined as a throwback, a man that seems out of place in the new business orientated world of the NFL. But it is Schmitt that truly holds the possiblity of breaking through the vanilla universe that is being created for the sake of avoiding offending anyone. Like most of society, the NFL has become obsessed with not making a mistake rather than being free, honest and forthright. Schmitt was the star fullback of the West Virginia Mountaineers. He speaks his mind, cracks jokes and talks about blocking and knocking people down. No sappy stories about his family, no focus on the money that he might make, no bling bling in an attempt to pretend he is a movie star. He is a man’s man and more importantly a football player. Schmitt actually bent 11 facemasks during the last two years. He smashed tacklers and lead the way for one of the nation’s best running offenses. He was never tackled for a loss, never once. When you talk to Schmitt you don’t worry about the measurables, you don’t need to. You know that this man can and will play football. You don’t worry that whether he will play hurt, you already know the answer to the question. You don’t worry whether he will give 100%. You know that a man that played Division III football and then traveled to the Morgantown from Wisconsin to hand in a tape without being asked, will always give his all. The NFL has become dull with the product that matters most, its players. They are too well coached as to what to say, if not how to live their personal lives. No spiking, no celebrating, no fun. It is the greatest single danger to America’s favorite sport. What is forgotten is that the game was built on the pesronalities and passions of men like Vince Lombardi, Jack Lambert and Dick Butkus.      ");
array_files[170]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/022908rrt.htm","2008-06-06","20K"," Richs Random Thoughts 2-29-08     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts 2-29-08 RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Richard Briggs Feburary 29, 2008 I have held back as long as I could up to this point, but I cannot hold back any longer. This presidential campaign is shaping up as to who can outdo whom when it comes to changing Washington D.C. and how this country conducts business. Truth is, not one of three remaining candidates for their respective party’s nomination is an outsider and none of them can bring about the change that they are talking about. On the Democratic side, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are senators, from New York and Illinois respectively. They cannot possibly believe what they are preaching because both are from the establishment. Both spend time in the halls of the Senate, working the room with their respective colleagues. This isn’t change, ladies and gentlemen. It will be more of the same, and perhaps even worse. Both candidates are promising pie in the sky policies, reliant on the government, and they believe this is a good thing (see last week’s column on health care) and that you and I will buy into and believe them. I would like to think that you, dear reader, and I are a just a little bit smarter than that. If you like handing over your money to the government, then feel free to vote for either one of these two Democratic candidates because that is exactly what they are going to ask you to do. They do not believe in free market systems and allowing the people to decide for themselves what is best for them. They believe that we should be reliant on the government for everything we need. If you believe the government should be your meal ticket, vote for Clinton or Obama. They want to raise your taxes and establish more government programs so that you can be more reliant on Uncle Sam than on yourself. I would like to believe that you are more than capable of being able to spend your money however you see fit. Clinton and Obama want to take care of you when you should be able to take care of yourself, and a whole lot better than either one      ");
array_files[171]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/022908penguins.htm","2008-06-06","21K"," Penguins Make Trade     ","",""," Penguins Make Trade Other Sports Articles Steelers Beat, 2/15/08 Steelers Beat, 2/8/08 Trouble for Fraizer Simplex Team Wraslin Round Up, 1/4/08 Wraslin Round Up, 2/1/08 Sports Beat, 2/22/08 The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers Photos from the NFL Scouting Combine Goodbye Myron Owen Schmitt - What the NFL was and should be again Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys PENGUINS MAKE TRADE By Rich Briggs February 29, 2008 The Penguins and General Manager Ray Shero pulled the trigger on what seemed to be out of the question on a blockbuster trade that has now made the Penguins the favorites to come out of the Eastern Conference and be the favorite to win the Stanley Cup later this year. Shero was quoted as saying that giving up such a young nucleus of Colby Armstrong, Erik Christensen, first round pick Angelo Esposito, and their first round pick from the 2008 Entry Draft was a very tough decision to make. However, this trade is very similar to the trades that were made back in the early 1990s that were the catalysts for the two Stanley Cup runs. While fans may be shell shocked at giving up such young talent in Armstrong, Christensen, and Esposito, they have to look at the big picture. Marian Hossa is a sniper on the wing and could be the weapon that Sidney Crosby needs to finish his passes and put the puck in the net. This acquisition has been discussed and it was also thought to be dead until it was pulled off at the last minute. This makes the Penguins legitimate Stanley Cup contenders and a mantra to win now rather than to wait a few more years for all of this young talent to develop. To the uneducated when it comes to hockey, Hossa played for the Atlanta Thrashers until the trade. He averages between 35 and 40 goals a year. That production could rise significantly with a talent like Crosby as his center. Sidney is more of a creator than he is a goal scorer, which makes this trade that much more important, and that much more significant. When I first heard this trade on my truck radio on my way home, I didn’t      ");
array_files[172]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/022908reynaud.htm","2008-06-06","15K"," Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys     ","",""," Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys February 29, 2008 When a player comes to the scouting combine, they are focused on their future career. The reasons are simple, the money, the fame, the glory. While this is big money, it in many ways is an adolescent man’s dream, all the supposed important things in life. But Reynaud is here for another reason, his child. His three year old daughter is the motivation for this man amongst boys. This is a man that has done the right things, staying by his woman when she had a child to him, taking care of the child and focusing his energies to make a difference in family’s life. He could have skipped out on the family, he could have avoided the responsibilities, he could have put himself first. Reynaud did not. Consider the difference between this young man and many of the established stars of the NFL. Tom Brady is praised by the press, yet he abanonded his girlfriend for another woman just as she was to have his child. His ego was more important than family. Brian Urlacher did much the same thing. Boys in the character department, while men on the field. “My little girl is a big factor in my being here” he told us. While other players were focused on themselves, their success and their being somebody, Reynaud was focused on his high school sweetheart and his young daughter. “It causes you to give it your all” he told us at the NFL combine. Darius Reynaud is a hero even if he does not have a great NFL career. He will always be one, because he has focused first on his family rather than himself. While others might be called heroes by sports announcers on Sunday afternoons, they lack the underlying humanity and maturity that real men and heroes possess. GTX06472 3 GTX06472 6 GTX06472 9 GTX06473 2 GTX06473 5 GTX06473 8 GTX06474 1 GTX06474 4 GTX06474 7 GTX06475 0 GTX06475 3 Sports Beat, 2/29/08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com     ");
array_files[173]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/022908cope.htm","2008-06-06","20K"," Goodbye Myron     ","",""," Goodbye Myron Other Sports Articles Steelers Beat, 2/15/08 Steelers Beat, 2/8/08 Trouble for Fraizer Simplex Team Wraslin Round Up, 1/4/08 Wraslin Round Up, 2/1/08 Sports Beat, 2/22/08 The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers Photos from the NFL Scouting Combine GOODBYE MYRON By Rich Briggs February 29, 2008 Two eras have come to an end for the Pittsburgh Steelers and for the Pittsburgh region. It was learned on Wednesday that former Steelers broadcaster Myron Cope, 79, had passed away from several health complications and issues while he was in a Mount Lebanon nursing home. Cope was a Steelers broadcaster from 1970 – 2004, having missed the Steelers latest Super Bowl run by one year after learning that he was starting to decline in his delivery from his dear friend, Joe Gordon, who was a Steelers publicist during the glory years. Cope had coined such phrases as “Yoi!, Double Yoi!, Triple Yoi!, Garganzola Hhm Hah! Cleve Brownies, the Bungles, and of course Emperor Chaz.” Cope was a writer for Sports Illustrated and other publications when he was hired by the Steelers at the age of 40. He also wrote five books during his career. He also had a radio show for 22 years on the former WTAE-AM 1250 long before it became WEAE Radio ESPN 1250. He also did commentaries on WTAE-TV sports segments and finished his commentaries with his signature phrase, “This is Myron Cope on sports!” He was one of the most beloved figures in this region for as long as anyone knew who he was. Sometimes his statements may have ruffled the feathers of opposing players until they saw him in physical stature (he was 5’ 4”) and then they would laugh and give him a hug, expressing no hard feelings. Of course, Cope is most famous for creating and developing the Terrible Towel, which came into existence in1975 during the Steelers second Super Bowl run when he encouraged the fans to bring a yellow or black dish towel to games and wave them profusely to get the home team energized and to place on a hex on the visitors. A legend was born and is in       ");
array_files[174]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/022408nflphotos.htm","2008-06-06","13K"," NFL Scouting Combine Photos     ","",""," NFL Scouting Combine Photos NFL Scouting Combine February 2008 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com     ");
array_files[175]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/022308steelers.htm","2008-06-06","15K"," The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers     ","",""," The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers The Psychology of the Pittsburgh Steelers By Cody Knotts The Pittsburgh Steelers are well known for their emphasis on character. It has been a hallmark of one of the leagues most stable and storied franchises. So it is not surprising that Kevin Colbert, GM of the Steelers would state that the family history was one of the most important questions that he looks for at the NFL Scouting combine. Colbert told The Weekly Recorder on Thursday that one of the various things that he is interested in about the family background is how the player reacted to the situation. A bad home was not a prequiste to a player been discounted by the Steelers. In fact, he emphasied that if a player came from a good home and had problems that would be a red flag. Red flags are one of the problems that the Steelers are worried about. Mistakes happen when we overlook a red flag. When we look back when a player fails, it was because we overlooked a red flag. Colbert emphasied that the problems facing a player were already known and that if they overlooked it, they were placing the player too high. The fault is not with the player, but instead with us. We have evaluated the player too high. Colbert stated. Colbert told the press that the Steelers 3-4 defense means that players taken on defense will take years to develop instead of being able to be plugged in immediately. The result is all Steeler defensive players are development projects. The 3-4 takes time to learn the system. Even NT Casey Hampton, as good as he is, took six games to learn it. Most players take 2-4 years to learn the Steelers defensive schemes. This would seem to indicate one of the reasons the Steelers are more focused on character and background. A Steeler will be around for the long haul. They will have to be amenable to learning over a period of time, rather than instant gratification. When asked if one of the things that the team psychologist was focusing on was drug addiction, Colbert said instead that they were focusing       ");
array_files[176]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/022208sportsbeat.htm","2008-06-06","19K"," Sports Beat 2-22-08     ","",""," Sports Beat 2-22-08 SPORTS BEAT By Rich Briggs February 22, 2008 *Over the last few years, I have read, with great amusement, the banter between our editor and publisher, Cody Knotts, and a member of our staff, Ken Bonnell, regarding the region’s love for, and attention to, the Steelers and the Penguins. In last week’s issue, there was a snippet regarding Ken’s prediction that the Penguins will win a Stanley Cup, again, before the Steelers win another Super Bowl, to which Cody replied “Will anyone care outside of Pens fans?” I would like to expand on this issue, as the debate appears to be raging hot and, since I am now the resident sports columnist of this publication, I believe I have the experience to shed some light on this particular subject. As we all know, this is Steelers Country – always has been and always will be. Of course, football existed in this area long before 1972, when Franco Harris made the Immaculate Reception and the Steelers won their first playoff game in the history of the franchise. That game began the string of division championships, playoff wins, conference championships and, of course, Super Bowl titles. This area has a love affair with football, at all levels, beginning with high school, college, and of course, professional. Several pro football players came from this area and that is something to be extremely proud of. To say that southwestern Pennsylvania is a football hotbed is an understatement. We are proud of our heritage regarding this sport. Hockey has long been the wicked stepsister of the professional sports scene in this area. Until the Pirates began their skid of 15 consecutive losing seasons back in 1993, this area was a baseball region as well. The Pirates were a juggernaut in the 1970s, winning numerous division championships, two National League pennants and, of course, two World Series championships in 1971 and 1979. Those were the glory years for the Pittsburgh area, when it was known as the City of Champions and the Pirates were know as The Lumber Company. Thos      ");
array_files[177]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/022208sidewinder.htm","2008-06-06","17K"," Previews and Reviews - Sidewinder Band     ","",""," Previews and Reviews - Sidewinder Band More Entertainment Articles Lynyrd Skynyrd Stevie Wonder Smithfield Street Productions celebrates one year in Pittsburgh Doo Wop Reunion Concert at Mellon Arena Philadelphia Museum of Art is Renoir Landscapes Exhibit Only U.S. Stop PREVIEWS AND REVIEWS By Steve Chess February 22, 2008 Every now and again, you stumble upon a gem performing in an out-of-the-way venue far from the beaten path. I had just such an experience Saturday, February the 16th. The venue was the Ambridge Eagles club and the gem was The Sidewinder Band. Their repertoire is essentially Country (old and new), but they seem to comfortably navigate between the Rock, Blues, Rockabilly and Country genres. You might easily hear them perform material from the catalogues of George Jones, Trace Adkins, Johnny Cash, Brian Setzer, Elvis Presley or even, Jefferson Airplane. The Sidewinder Band is instrumentally a power trio (at least in the configuration that night) with the addition of an attractive female vocalist fronting the band. The rhythmic foundation is lain by drummer, Jimi Miller. The other two instrumentalists are bass player, Donny Plum and guitarist, Kim wall. Vocal duties are shared by Dena Miller(lead vocals), bassman Plum(lead and backup vocals) and guitarist Wall(backup vocals). By its very nature, the instrumentation of a power trio has to maintain a fundamental musical structure to hold the whole thing together. Any whimsical excursion by an individual musician can threaten the cohesion of the band and, ultimately, the song being performed. The musicians of The Sidewinder Band maintain these fundamentals. That being said, guitarist Kim Wall does a good job providing interesting guitar fills, flourishes and occasionally, quotes and paraphrases of classic guitar riffs and licks in his solo passages. Donny Plum’s bass playing primarily maintains its essential role as half of the rhythm section in conjunction with Jimi Miller’s rock-steady beat on his drum kit. It could be argued that it is the vocal      ");
array_files[178]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/column/022208honorroll.htm","2008-06-06","15K"," McGuffey Middle School Honor Roll     ","",""," McGuffey Middle School Honor Roll MCGUFFEY MIDDLE SCHOOL HONOR ROLL February 22, 2008 2nd Quarter Honor Roll Grade 8 High Honors Shelby Caddies Sarah Dombrowski Emily Haywood Jessica Kuhn Zachary Morley Kyle Rose Steven Rosepink Chad Shrader Elyse Stoner Meghan Tuscano Aubrea Winfield Honors Lacey Blakemore Grant Braun Zachary Brownlee Samuel Crouse Alexxandra Feller Sarah Foran Shannon Kelly Donald Kelsall Joye Kenimond Abigail King Elizabeth Leasure Kyle Leonard Bethany Longstreth Alexander MacBeth Cody McAvoy Ali McNary Nathaniel Mills Brittany Selmon Mariah Shultz Kara Silvers Shannon Sworden Derek Szygenda Special Achievement Mia Bell Marissa Grimes Brody Keener Kyle Rose Derek Wilson Grade 7 High Honors Andrew Adams Cydney Comfort Jon Demi Drevin Galentine Katelyn Jobes Shelby Konwalski Mitchell Leverknight Maxwell Levy Mikayla Lunardini Madison McClenathan Eric Nolin Parker Rosepink Mikayla Schultz Courtney Selmon Honors Nathan Bedillion Lena Bioni Joseph Buchanan Meghan Burgdolt Erik Capra Brett Cox Andrew Crawford Brennan Crimm Victoria Culbertson Taylor Dutton Rebecca Foran Dylan Fuller Mikayla Fulton Natalie Hamilton Erica Johnson Stacey Martin Mercedes Maze Lauren Mersky Brad Montgomery Grant Montgomery Nathan Orum Megan Pendleton Michael Phillips Alex Pochiba Dillon Reese Victoria Rhine Raelynn Sanders Coy Scott Emily Smith Dakota Spalding Shannon Teed Alaina Thomson Zachary Vinski Matthew Weiss Isabella Winters Special Achievement Taylor Africa Nathan Bedillion Brent Blacharczyk Taylor Dutton Mercedes Maze Jessie Miller Grant Montgomery Brandon Thomas Rylee Walker Grade 6 High Honors Joshua Brenner Darrell Briggs Luke Brownlee Chelsey Carl Kelsey Cecil Nathalie Cerciello Alexis Cole Tyler Harris Noah Hathaway Ashley King Travis McCann Marlie Mounts Abigail Pattison Shane Powell Amy Russell Courtney Stiles Courtney Streeter Nikolas Succop Jarod Weaver Honors Jessica Baker Casey Bamberger Jacob Carman Samantha Chadwick James Helbley Randi Levers Logan Malone Mara McBride Alexius Mysza Philip Naccar      ");
array_files[179]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/021508steelers.htm","2008-06-06","20K"," Steelers Beat 2-15-08     ","",""," Steelers Beat 2-15-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com STEELERS BEAT By Richard Briggs February 15, 2008 *Football season is now over, with the completion of the Pro Bowl this past Sunday. I had the game on, but I didn’t pay that much attention to it. The Pro Bowl is anticlimactic after the Super Bowl, especially this year with the Giants’ upset of the Patriots. Now that the football season is in the books, it’s time to take a look at the offseason. The Steelers will have a lot to address during this offseason. First and foremost is the offensive line. This line is a patchwork and it has to be taken care of if this offense is going to be the least bit productive. Alan Faneca will be gone via free agency. Sean Mahan was not the answer at center, and Max Starks may be allowed to leave as well. There is no one the roster to fill the void that Faneca will leave when he departs. I blame this on the Rooneys and, to a lesser extent, Kevin Colbert, even though he has to work in conjunction with the Rooneys. If they had no intention of signing Faneca to anything close to what he deserves, then this should have been addressed in the 2007 draft. This position will be protection for Ben Roethlisberger’s blind side, so it is vital the Steelers get someone who can step in and keep Ben out of harm’s way, and that will not be an easy task. Cohesion and chemistry are vital to an offensive line. The Steelers better be doing their homework. The defensive line is also aging. Too many players are going to start being, or already are, on the wrong side of 30. This also includes members of the linebacking corp. Clark Haggans could also be gone, which will probably make room for both Lamarr Woodley and Lawrence Timmons. Those two will be injecting new blood into a defense that will badly need it. Both offensive and defensive lines are in a state of flux and transition, as well as the linebacking corp, and don’t think Head Coach Mike Tomlin won’t be addressing this matter as the team enters the free age      ");
array_files[180]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/020808steelersbeat.htm","2008-06-06","14K"," Steelers Beat 2-8-08     ","",""," Steelers Beat 2-8-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com STEELERS BEAT By Richard Briggs February 8, 2008 It was a great night in America Sunday night, it was a great day in America on Monday, and it has been a great week in America this week. Unless you are a New England Patriots fan, the stars lined up just right and the New York Giants pulled off the upset that most did not see coming, outside of a select few. Most experts, including the talking heads on television who are deemed the experts because some of them played the game, and my contemporary at the Big Daily, Dale Lolley, all had the Patriots picked to win the Super Bowl on Sunday and finish this alleged perfect run by going 19 – 0 and be declared the greatest team of all time. Hold your horses, everyone! These alleged experts did not see what I have been seeing for 16 weeks, plus two playoff games. These Patriots were playing mediocre football, at best, and were only winning because their opponents could not finish the job. This includes the New York Giants in the last game of the regular season when they had the Patriots on the ropes, but allowed them to score late and hold on for the win. However, that win gave the Giants the confidence and the momentum to go through the playoffs, much like the Steelers did two years ago, and record one of the biggest upsets in sports history. But the powers that be did not see that. Everyone was so enamored of this Patriots team, and for what? An average and aging defense that was protected by a supposedly explosive offense. Okay, Tom Brady threw for 50 touchdown passes and Randy Moss caught 23 of those. I could have stood behind that line that Brady has and thrown half those touchdown passes. The Giants had the perfect game plan going into the Super Bowl to create relentless pressure on Brady so that he could not create the rhythm and timing with his receivers. Throughout the course of the game, I was watching the look in the eyes of Eli Manning and Brady. Manning had the look of a d      ");
array_files[181]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/020108wrestling.htm","2008-06-06","13K"," WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP 2-1-08     ","",""," WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP 2-1-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP By: Jerry W. Seaman for the Recorder February 1, 2008 MONONGAHELA-The 3rd annual Washington County Wrestling Tournament concluded Saturday night at Ringgold High School with very few surprises or upsets. The Big Macs pounded out their third title in a row with a team total of 225 points, followed by Burgettstown with 165.5 and Ringgold with 108.5 to round out the top three teams. Canonsburg was definitely the favorite team coming into this tournament after their strong showing in the Powerade Christmas Tournament. They are the proven team in the county and have some individual talent to make it to Hershey in March. The Burgettstown Blue Devils made it known just how strong and balanced team they have this year by finishing second in the county against some larger, Class AAA, schools. This seems to indicate that wrestling is still a one-on-one individual sport regardless of how many team tournaments the state requires. Each individual wrestler will decide the team champion. “We have a full team roster this year with only two seniors and a lot of young kids,” Terry Havelka the Blue Devils head coach said. “Our kids are working hard and getting better every practice. Ryan Watson won the only gold medal at 189 for Burgettstown with a decision over Nick Shuman, McGuffey, with a 9-2 decision. The officials had a little difficulty calling and awarding points in the match. The official give’th and he take’th away. “I thought the score should have been 5-5 at the end of the first period.” Said Jeff Breese, the Highlander Head Coach. “Nick got real frustrated after that first period.” Dan Conley didn’t get the results he was looking for in his rematch with Michael Hull, Canon-McMillan 215-pounder, dropping a 5-2 decision. They went into over-time in the finals of the Powerade Christmas Tournament with Hull taking a 3-1 victory in that match “Dan has got to work on his shots. You got to take them down to win.” Said      ");
array_files[182]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/020808rrt.htm","2008-06-06","16K"," Richs Random Thoughts 2-8-08     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts 2-8-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Richard Briggs February 8, 2008 *On the heels of my column last week regarding manners, I had another situation that was a classic example of what I described a week ago, with an interesting twist. On Saturday morning February 2, I made a trip to the Borders Express bookstore at Washington Crown Center to make a purchase. When I got to the mall, I found it to be a little busier than I expected, but that wasn’t a big deal. As it turned out, there was an outdoors show taking place that weekend, which is always a large draw in these parts due to the large number of outdoorsmen and women in this area. I made my way to the bookstore to pick up the book I was looking for and did a little bit of looking around. Events such as an outdoors show always bring in more people and, many times, those people like to make stops into the many stores that make up the mall. The bookstore was no exception. Now, I have stated in the past how tall I am, so kneeling down means that I have a distance to “get back up.” I have had numerous instances where I have knelt down to look at something and, don’t you know, someone will come and stand right over top of me to look at something on the top row. This happened briefly before I decided to move on. There were other instances where people would pass right by me without saying a word while I was looking at something, acting as if I was in their way. I was instantly brought back to what I wrote last week. As I moved around the store and made my next stop, a gentleman who was probably in his late 40s to early 50s walked right past me without saying a word. I was beginning to get irritated by all of this before I was stopped in my tracks. I was just casually looking at something when a little girl who was probably still in grade school said in the sweetest voice “Excuse me” when she walked past me. I said to her “Sure, no problem.” Immediately, her mother pulled her aside an      ");
array_files[183]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/020108rrt.htm","2008-06-06","17K"," Richs Random Thoughts 2-1-08     ","",""," Richs Random Thoughts 2-1-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com RICHS RANDOM THOUGHTS By Richard Briggs February 1, 2008 *Manners. When I was a kid, my parents raised me to say “Yes, sir; No, sir; Yes, ma’am; No, ma’am, and Mr., Mrs., Miss., or Ms.” I was also taught to say Please, Thank you, Thanks, and Excuse me. I must have been in the minority because, in today’s society, I have not come across very many examples of ADULTS using these manners, and that bothers me. We complain all the time about kids today. Well, what example do they have to follow? I have come across adults who say “Give me that” without even so much as a courtesy to the person they are asking. When I worked in retail in the early 1990s, I learned so much by working with the public that working in education is a piece of cake. I have never seen so many people thinking they are entitled to things, or do things, just because they are adults. I had instances where I had people just throw, or toss, money and credit cards at me while ringing up a purchase. They got their change, if it applied, and their receipts in the same manner. Those people were not too good, in my eyes, to think they were going to get over on me. I was willing to help any customer I could, but I expected the same respect in return. Recently, and over a period of the last few years, I have come across more examples of adults acting like the world owes them something. At first, I was going to point out senior citizens, because I have always been taught to respect my elders, and I still do. However, this issue is not limited to them. I have come across people who are middle aged, and younger, and any simple act of kindness is met with a blank stare or nothing at all. Talk about ignorance and arrogance! Around Christmas time, I was going into a local convenience store and there were three older folks coming out. First was a woman holding a large box. I held the door open for her and she just gave me a half hearted smile. No “thank you, sir, or tha      ");
array_files[184]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/column/010408wrestling.htm","2008-06-06","11K"," WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP 1-4-08     ","",""," WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP 1-4-08 All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com WRASLIN’ ROUND-UP By: Jerry Seaman for the Recorder January 4, 2008 Canonsburg, PA——The 41st Powerade Christmas Wrestling Tournament took place on December 28-29 at the Canon McMillan High School, Canonsburg, PA. The tournament director, Frank Vulcano, Jr., and his staff once more ran one of the top six wrestling tournaments in the entire nation. After this years go, I would go so far as to rank it in the top three behind the Iron Man and the Beast Of The East. This tournament gets better every year with new teams added from far and near. Harrison High School made the trip up from Georgia and found out just how tough it is The Medved twins, Ryan –135- and Alex –140- both won fourth place while their teammate, Josh Cordon –160- made the finals. He lost a decision to Steve Bosak, State College, 3-0. Johnston wins a third title Colin Johnston, senior from Canon-McMillan, made it three gold’s when he defeated Burrell’s Shane Welsh in the finals, 5-2. The West Virginia bound Johnston became the thirteenth Powerade wrestler to win three titles. He was also voted the Outstanding Wrestler award With forty-two teams from six states in this year’s tournament it made a rough go for the local wrestlers. Only eight came out of the tournament with a medal. Canonsburg got the most with five. Joining Johnston were teammates: Sam Brownlee, third at 285; Mitch Hull, third at 215; Chris Pihiou, sixth at 140; and Nick Catalano, took seventh at 125. Canon-McMillan head coach Chris Mary summed it up very well when he said; “This tournament is brutal.” Trinity, Waynesburg, and Burgettstown each got one place finisher. Todd Martinek took Sixth at 160 for Trinity. Dan Conley took a sixth at 215 for Burgettstown, and Waynesburg’s Vince Camps earned an eighth place finish at 135. McGuffey, Trinity, and Waynesburg are all in the rebuild mode. Two, McGuffey and Waynesburg have new head coaches. Joe Throckmorton for Waynesburg and Jeff Breese for McGu      ");
array_files[185]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/060608ed.htm","2008-06-06","21K"," The World They Seek     ","",""," The World They Seek THE WORLD THEY SEEK The Weekly Recorder June 6, 2008 One of the things that is most troubling about the Presidency of George Bush is that it has emboldened the enemies of actual freedom. Rather than calling them liberal, a more appropriate term would be the term they seek, progressives. Combined with moderate Republicans, they have sought in a variety of laws to limit our freedom, our choices and our lives. It is these individuals that are privately happy with the rising gas prices because it will force a fundamental change in our behavior (the key word is our) and lower our lifestyle. Consider the world as progressives and the national media elites want it to be: 1) The end of suburbia. Paul Krugman of the New York Times predicted this very thing with a recent article. He did not say it was bad, but instead praised the idea. The eventual forcing of millions of homeowners to small apartment complexes in urban centers. 2) The end of individual ownership of cars and firearms. Cars will become too expensive for the masses, we will lose the freedom to travel as we see fit. The result will be the growth of corporate serfdom. You will be tied down with the choice to visit where they have decided you can go. Firearms will end because of the close proximity that we will be forced to live in. The confined quarters will lead the majority to believe in the lack of an individual right to bear arms, as most urban dwellers already believe. 3) Anti-family sexual behavior- Consider the soon to come CBS series Swingtown, praising the swinger lifestyle and the HBO series Big Love that also shows in a positive light the polyamist lifestyle. Sexual freedom of all types are ok, personal economic freedom is another matter. 4) Anti-religious fervor-Regardless of the newer attempts to pretend a positive relationship towards Christianity, it is a farce. The very hostility that those in “elites” feel towards organized religion is stifling. Anything can be said about those that believe in God the creator and worse ca      ");
array_files[186]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/051608prob.htm","2008-06-06","19K"," The Problem with Government     ","",""," The Problem with Government THE PROBLEM WITH GOVERNMENT By Cody Knotts The Weekly Recorder May 16, 2008 Government locally in particular is in crisis. The reason is the overextension of the role of government. As was famously stated “The government that governs least, governs best”. Conservatives sometimes miss understand that quote and believe that government should not govern. That is not the intention. Instead, the use of minimal laws and invasive actions can lead to the desired result. But government at the local level is led by those that seem to think that an ordinance is needed for everything. They believe that regulation will bring about some sort of Nirvana. But instead, they accomplish only one thing, the destruction of freedom. That is why the fight in Buffalo Township is so important. Either a formerly quiet and well run township will change to become like the over controlled mega townships or it will remain a nice place to live, if you believe in freedom. The excellent article in the Post-Gazette on Sunday by Janice Crompton showed the battle lines well. Buffalo, like many Townships is being overrun by the rules police. Those that seek to stop you from redoing your bathroom with a permit for example. But many of these uses of ordinances like sidewalk repair in the city of Washington get out of control because people rarely know their rights. You have a right to repair damaged property as Charles Kurowski has rightly pointed out for years with the city. You don’t need a permit to repair something. But Government needs to be fed and it goes out of its way to find more of your money. The result is counterproductive. The goal should be the investment of individuals into their property, not the opposite. But some places like Washington and now Buffalo seem unable to understand the real goal. Instead they focus on the small gain of fees, to the detriment of the long term goal. It is time for a different approach to government in this county, an approach that first views every law on the real benefit for      ");
array_files[187]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/051008hightide.htm","2008-06-06","20K"," THE HIGH TIDE OF ENVIROMENTALISM     ","",""," THE HIGH TIDE OF ENVIROMENTALISM News Sports Sports Beat, 5/2/08 Featured Columns Entertainment Alex Skolnick Trio Opinion Roger McGuinn Richs Random Thoughts 5/2/08 Frida Kahlo exhibit I.T. in the CiTi Naumoff Resigns from Peters Council Trinity School District Paying 13,731 for water bill in one building. Why are Washington County Democrats being left out in the cold? Irey-Toprani call for Jail Investigation Strawberry Alley Aftermath One Nation Under Bitter Pennsylvania? It’s a man’s world in South Strabane Twp Richs Random Thoughts 4/25/08 Billy Joel Notes from the NFL Draft How Gold Water Happened What really happened to South Strabane Parks and Wreck? THE HIGH TIDE OF ENVIRONMENTALISM By Cody Knotts The Weekly Recorder May 10, 2008 Environmentalism is about to self destruct. As with most political movements, the environmental movement has reached the point that the originial reason for its existence is past and it the thermidorian reaction is about to take place. Witness the current debate over oil prices. The answer is simple, more domestic production and more refineries combined with less stringent controls. But the mantra of the environmentalist has been for years that no more of the planet can be touched. Lead by their pied piper Al Gore, they have begged for years to have 5 to 7 a gallon gas. Now their wishes are being fufilled. They argued that higher gases would force the common man (that means you and I) to change our lifestyles. No Sunday drives, no living in the Burbs, no freedom of choice. Instead, we would be forced to live close to our work revitlizing the cities so that more of the land outside can stay pristine. In other words, a fundamental change in the behavior of most of middle class America. But within their victory lies the seeds of their defeat. Most of the gains have been because the same people’s lifestyles they despise have supported them. Raised on the faulty science of books by authors like Rachel Carson, the middle class of America has bought into the lies. Why? It was easy, a      ");
array_files[188]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/041808ed.htm","2008-06-06","23K"," The Battle of Light and Darkness     ","",""," The Battle of Light and Darkness All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News Sports Articles Sports Beat, 4/11/08 Sports Beat, 4/18/08 Featured Columns Richs Random Thoughts 4/4/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/28/08 Entertainment Alex Skolnick Trio Obama’s Continental Divide Opinion No Excuses Political Secrets, 3/28/08 Roger McGuinn Why Hillary Needs the MTV Generation City Beat, 4/11/08 We Need Your Help for Write-Ins Richs Random Thoughts 4/11/08 Is Hillary’s obstacle her sex? Frida Kahlo exhibit Is Obama the Next George Bush PA Clinton Supporters Tear into Obama Over West Coast Remarks Naumoff Resigns from Peters Council Meadows Racing Network CSI’s Hill Harper Comes Out for Obama Trinity School District Paying 13,731 for water bill in one building. Why are Washington County Democrats being left out in the cold? Irey-Toprani call for Jail Investigation Strawberry Alley Aftermath City Beat, 4/18/08 The Battle Between Light and Darkness Three democrats to look for on the ballot One Nation Under Bitter Pennsylvania? Richs Random Thoughts 4/18/08 THE BATTLE OF LIGHT AND DARKNESS The Weekly Recorder April 18, 20008 Washington County is locked in a battle of light and darkness and for the first time in my life, the forces of light are starting to win. Diana Irey and Steve Toprani stood bravely on Wednesday to ask for the simplest thing, an investigation into the obvious. Whether something at least procedure wise needs to change at the Washington County Jail. But Commissioner Bracken Burns came forward with the most innane comment possible calling the allegations surrounding the jail “Street talk and rumors”. Is it rumor that FBI agents have seized records? Is it rumor that employees of the Washington County Jail have been called to testify? Is it rumor that a Federal Grand Jury is meeting in Pittsburgh about the problems and possible crimes associated with the reign of former District Attorney John Pettit? Is it rumor that numerous employees have come forward over the years about proble      ");
array_files[189]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/041108ed.htm","2008-06-06","24K"," We Need Your Help for Write-Ins     ","",""," We Need Your Help for Write-Ins WE NEED YOUR HELP FOR WRITE-INS The Weekly Recorder April 11, 2008 Do you honestly want change in Washington County? That is the first question. Do you honestly want change in Harrisburg? That is the second question Do you honestly want change in Washington DC? That is the final question. Then you need to help the write in campaigns of Frank Yuvan and William Russell. Both of these men are fighting to get back on the ballot after their Democratic opponents decided to use the court system to avoid opposition. Lets talk frankly about the Pennsylvania ballot acess situation. The goal should be that it be easy for serious challengers to get on the ballot. In both of these cases there was only one member of the opposition party attempting to run and the Democratic incumbents found people to remove them from the ballot. The result was not good for the Republic, the State, or the People, it was only good for one person, the incumbent. Ask yourself, what were they afraid of? Losing of course. The danger of having to spend their preciously raised campaign donations to defend themselves. The Republican party had people in the pocket of these men challenge our own party’s nominees. Of course it is not hard as an incumbent to find someone to challenge the other party’s nominee. But it subverts the process. Let me state that the Republican party incumbents are no better around the state. They have become almost as addicted to this anti-democratic action. But there is something that you can do about it. You can write in both of their names, William Russell for Congress and Frank Yuvan for State Representative. Russell is running in Jack Murtha’s district for the right to challenge the man that dare to falsely condemn a local solider and still call himself pro-military. Yuvan is running to challenge first term State Representative Jesse White, who has rapidly shown that he fits in better in Harrisburg than many 20 year incumbents. (that is not a compliment). In addition, White of course was a       ");
array_files[190]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/032808ps.htm","2008-06-06","25K"," Political Secrets     ","",""," Political Secrets Political Secrets March 28, 2008 The Federal Investigation in Washington County might be about bear more fruit. County employees that participated in turning the County Jail into a alleged Playboy mansion for Petitt and possibly some county employees. The truth is that few in the political process are the people they should be. Petty, arrogant and consumed with power, they have been willing to become corrupt. When the goal is raw power, there is no other possibility. Ask yourself the following questions: How can a Judge write orders to allow the District Attorney to take girls out of the jail (even from other jails)? What could be the reason? Why were women in question always handled by the same probation officer? Why were the same two attorneys handling the majority of these clients? How could everyone not know what was allegedly going on with the female prisoners at the jail? Why were reports from now former employees ignored by everyone but one County Commissioner? Of course, everything could be a coincidence. On the other hand, Joe Ford once told me that there is no such thing as coicidence in politics. Judge Janet Moschetta Bell did the right thing this week in ruling for Sandra Pettit. It proved again why she deserves to be a judge in this messy county. State Rep. Jesse White at the recent opening of the Barack Obama headquarters. Is White now supporting Obama? Or will he follow his leader George Vitteck and support Clinton? Our bet, he was there to see Franco. The Obama campaign locally was an interesting mix of African-Americans and highly educated white voters. The crowd was packed and there was considerable energy for Barack. Whether that translates into actual votes remains to be seen. In attendence: Dean and Joyce Ellis, Pat and Carl Maggi, Jim Proudfit, Jesse White, Cliff Cochrane, Jack and Vivian Millhollan, Lou Waller Sr., and Bob Griffin. State Rep. Tim Solobay is a strong Hillary supporter. So is County Commissioner Bracken Burns. Commissioner Larry Maggi is currently uncommi      ");
array_files[191]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/040808ed.htm","2008-06-06","24K"," No Excuses     ","",""," No Excuses No Excuses April 4, 2008 The time for excuses is over at Washington County and the leadership, if you can call it that, must be held accountable. Yes, the leadership of this county that stood back and supported for the most part the never ending corruption of the Pettit years. As the truth is coming out, the public will be more and more astonished to learn the depths of depravity that this county has sunk to. Sexual assault, beatings at the jail, cover ups, possible deaths and more. Yes Virginia there is a hell and it is Washington County. Now where were our leaders? The County Commissioners that still hide behind their attorneys and say nothing (except for some statements from Diana Irey, the lone Republican). The row officers that except for Phyllis Ranko Matheny and Michael Namie were more than willing to support John Pettit. The jail guards, county employees, wardens and deputy wardens that did nothing to stop this and might according to some sources have been involved in activities themselves. The Commissioners have NO EXCUSES. Period. Either they knew and did nothing or they did not know and failed to do their job. They are the prison board, they are the ones responsible to the public to RUN THE JAIL. There is NO EXCUSE period. Where they too busy finding ways to rewards the Stout family more tax payer money for projects? Were they too busy finding more projects to waste taxpayer money on? Maybe a contributor needed rewarded? Maybe another insider needed to be feed? Instead of attending yet another cocktail party in which they are praised for their brilliance, MAYBE JUST MAYBE THEY COULD DO THEIR JOB. That would be a breath of fresh air. Let me state this loud and clear: NO ONE DESERVES TO BE BEATEN NO ONE DESERVES TO BE RAPED NO ONE DESERVES TO BE COERCED INTO SEXUAL ENCOUNTERS NO ONE DESERVES TO BE RAILROADED FOR A CRIME THEY DID NOT COMMIT NO ONE DESERVES TO DIE LIKE A DOG AND HAVE IT COVERED UP. If any of the alleged crimes that are being investigated turn out to be true, then not only doe      ");
array_files[192]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/032808protest.htm","2008-06-06","20K"," Jimmy D’Alessandro Protests Sonny Spossey’s recent Tax Increase     ","",""," Jimmy D’Alessandro Protests Sonny Spossey’s recent Tax Increase Jimmy D’Alessandro Protests Sonny Spossey’s recent Tax Increase in the City of Washington March 28, 2008 Sonny’s “Sneaky Tax” increase is a sure way to increase the problems that are facing the city of Washington. One of the main problems that will arise out of the city of Washington’s sneaky tax increase is the difficulty that local business will have making money in the city. In addition, the city tax increases will make landlords more and more willing to eventually abadoned their overtax properties, leaving less tax base and more problems for the city. But Spossey decided that being fiscally responsible was less important than rewarding his friends in city government. The result was Sonny’s sneaky tax, one that has left many land owners screaming in pain. Why not real change in the city of Washington? Can’t IT be farmed out? How about other possible savings? Have these even been tried? Or is the goal to only take care of those that supported you, Sonny? All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News City Beat, 3/21/08 City Beat, 3/14/08 Pettit Moves Back Home FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People Sports Articles Sports Beat, 3/28/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory Sports Beat, 3/21/08 Wraslin Round Up Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/28/08 Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio Obama’s Continental Divide Campaign Briefs Support for Obama in Washington Is Political Change Finally Here? Vitteck Goes After Sonny Spossey Former Steelers Cheerleader for Obama Opinion Letter: Not Seeking Township Position Letter: Response to Tom Flickinger Letter: Eirik Westcoat Jimmy D’Alessandro Protests It Is Time to Clean House Political Secrets, 3/28/08     ");
array_files[193]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/032808ed.htm","2008-06-06","22K"," It Is Time to Clean House     ","",""," It Is Time to Clean House It Is Time to Clean House! March 28, 2008 How did it happen? That is the real question that will emerge if John Pettit is indicted and convicted on the alleged charges that he is facing. How can this have happened? The answer is simply that it is Washington County and we allowed it to happen. For years we have elected a group of individuals that have been more than willing to be corrupt. We have elected them at every level. Every crooked cop, every crooked judge, every crooked District Attorney, every crooked politician in this county is our fault. For too long we have accepted corruption as the way of life here. Keep quiet, don’t say anything and the evil ones will leave you alone. Now is the time to change the culture of corruption that allegedly turned the jailhouse into a Playboy mansion. The Federal government is apparently (according to sources) attempting to prove that our county jail was used by those in power including possibly some county employees to provide a steady stream of sexual partners. If this is true, Washington County is actually worse than any of us imagined. Worse is the possibility that those in power had an idea of what was happening at the jail and did nothing. That is right... nothing. Worse is the fact that in the wake of the federal investigations there is no investigation into the jail by the local officials. Think about it. Can you imagine anywhere else where there would not be a public and very vocal investigation of the county jail after the reports that are surfacing? At least one person, Commissioner Diana Irey told us this week that something should be done. When we asked Commissioner Larry Maggi about the problem all we received was silence. It is time for the Commissioners to act. It is time for the prison board to act. The problems at the county jail need to be INDEPENDENTLY investigated on behalf of the county. A group of attorneys and individuals that are respected and had NO TIES TO PETTIT need to be formed to investigate the county jail on be      ");
array_files[194]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/032108westcoat.htm","2008-06-06","20K"," Letter: Eirik Westcoat     ","",""," Letter: Eirik Westcoat Letter: Eirik Westcoat March 21, 2008 As to a religion being a fad, I am sure that the Catholics thought that the Luteran Faith was just a fad too. Considering that Mr. Westcoats religion has been around for over 30 years, I believe that it also cannot be considered a fad either. Please inform your writers that just because a religion is not considered mainstream or Christian does not make it a fad or even a non religion as our Republican President seems to think. The ranks of Pagan and Heathen worshippers is growing every day and though a large number of us are pacifists, a growing number are not. We do not appreciate being told that what we believe is just for fun and is not real. It is real to us. As real as the Bible and Jesus are to those of the Judeo-Christian-Islamic faiths. As these people believe in the so-called miracles performed by their leaders, we believe in the so-called miracles performed by our those of our faiths. I hope that Mr. Westcoat is elected as a Republican Delegate. More power to him. Rowan ferch Gwynedd Las Vegas, NV News Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor City Beat, 3/21/08 April/May is Apparent Deadline for Pettit Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County City Beat, 3/14/08 Former President Visits W & J Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary Pettit Moves Back Home FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People Sports Articles Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Sports Beat, 3/14/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory Sports Beat, 3/21/08 Wraslin Round Up Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/7/08 Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio “Hairspray” set to play at Heinz Hall Obama’s Continental Divide Campaign Briefs Letters to Editor Letter: Not Seeking Township Position Letter: Response to Tom Flickinger Letter: Eirik Westcoat All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com     ");
array_files[195]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/032108letter2.htm","2008-06-06","20K"," Letter: Response to Tom Flickinger     ","",""," Letter: Response to Tom Flickinger Letter: Response to Tom Flickinger March 21, 2008 I’d like to thank Tom Flickinger for not only reading my article about him, but for backing up my facts. I’m sorry if the truth was offensive, but as they say the truth hurts. And to be honest I tried to be nice and left out the really mean things I was told when I mentioned your name to people. But let’s face it, if you couldn’t take a simple article stating what happened how could you ever hold up at a South Strabane Township meeting. I am just one of many critizing voices. And your apparent degrading nature only goes to prove my point that we want someone in office that can deal with residents in a respectable manner. Judi Panasik All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com News Commonwealth v. Jessica Rizor City Beat, 3/21/08 April/May is Apparent Deadline for Pettit Infanticide Case Closes In Washington County City Beat, 3/14/08 Former President Visits W & J Redemption? Could Bill Finally Help Hillary Pettit Moves Back Home FBI Investigation Could Be Headed to More People Sports Articles Darius Reynaud - A man amongst boys Sports Beat, 3/14/08 Frazier-Simplex Bittersweet Victory Sports Beat, 3/21/08 Wraslin Round Up Featured Columns So Much For Being the Keystone State Richs Random Thoughts, 3/21/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/14/08 Richs Random Thoughts 3/7/08 Entertainment The Sidewinder Band Alex Skolnick Trio “Hairspray” set to play at Heinz Hall Obama’s Continental Divide Campaign Briefs Letters to Editor Letter: Not Seeking Township Position Letter: Response to Tom Flickinger Letter: Eirik Westcoat     ");
array_files[196]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/031408ed.htm","2008-06-06","20K"," Politicians and Sex     ","",""," Politicians and Sex POLITICIANS AND SEX March 14, 2008 This week I was a surprise guest on the Marty Griffin show on KDKA radio. The reason, the demise of NY Governor Eliot Spitzer and the comparison that this draws with our own former District Attorney John Pettit. It does seem a bit odd at times to be the resident expert on the nefarious activities of our former District Attorney (given just how creepy his alleged acts are) it does fit with another aspect of my previous life. When I started life I belived that would be a preacher, a man dedicted to God. Instead life seemed to lead me towards being a social worker, helping those in need. Both courses did have the common goal of assisting others with their lives. It also requires a bit of understanding of the human condition. So when asked to be a guest on the subject of why politicians desire sex with prostitutes, the answers seem to flow easily. 1) Politicians crave power. Since the very people that are drawn to political power desire it, it does not seem surprising that those that desire power in public life would desire power in their sexual life. Can there be a greater power over another human being than to buy them for the mere purpose of using their body? At least in the case of Spitzer, he was paying dearly for his time (4000+ for a session), while in the alleged case of our own bad boy of politics, John Pettit, he was allegedly exchanging the sexual act for easier treatment and some crack cocaine. 2) Ego maniacs view others as objects to be manipulated. Those people obsessed with themselves (again read most political leaders) and their image are more likely to view the rest of us as objects to be manipulated for their own desires. So it would again not be surprising that someone that views others as an object would look to use a prostitiute. They are impersonal, they are not really human in the eyes of the user. In addition, the powerful men can view them as not being credible people, real people. They can justify their actions in their own mind by sa      ");
array_files[197]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/032108letter.htm","2008-06-06","23K"," Letter to the Editors: Not Seeking Township Position     ","",""," Letter to the Editors: Not Seeking Township Position Letter: Not Seeking Township Position March 8, 2008 Dear Editor, I just finished reading the hatchet job your reporter, and I use that work loosely, Judi Panasik, wrote in your paper. Let me dissect her article mistake by mistake. I have not been “sniffing” around concerning the South Strabane Supervisors position, but was contacted by one of the supervisors to consider getting involved, and no, it was not Bob Hollick. I considered the request and thought that maybe it was time for me to give back to the community and not just live here. The same reason I was on the Trinity School board, to give back and offer my experience from the private sector to help the school district. I moved into South Strabane, 30 years ago because it was a well run township. The people most responsible for that over the years was Billy Bell and Don Trautman. I felt that the Township has been struggling without their leadership and that maybe I could help. I called Don Trautman to find out what was really going on in the township and to gain his insight and experience. I also asked him if he thought that my skills and demeanor would be of benefit to the township. His discussion was both informative and helpful. I then called Cody Knotts another person I have know for many years, a person that I trusted with his insight in local politics and discussed the overall situation at the Township. Again I was getting a feel for the issues within the township (checking the facts) and to see if my skills would be of help to the township. Now, if Ms. Panasik had contacted me to ask my intentions or discuss my views on the TIF I would have welcomed the inquiry and maybe she would have come close to the truth of my interest in serving. But instead she filled her article with rumor, innuendo, false conclusions, and absurd leaps of faith. She is not a reporter, but an advocate using the Recorder as her sounding board since I assume no one else will listen to her cackling. If she read my position o      ");
array_files[198]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/022208ed.htm","2008-06-06","13K"," Your State Tax Dollars at Work     ","",""," Your State Tax Dollars at Work YOUR STATE TAX DOLLARS AT WORK February 22, 2008 There are those that hate this newspaper and that is their right. In fact, that is what is so neat in the United States, you have the right to your opinion. There are those that dislike our existence (namely those that have supported the ongoing corruption in Washington County, those that are so high brow that they don’t understand how to win those fights, or those that just like to dislike. Again, that is cool. It is the way of things. But one thing we are not is the Weekly World News. Secondly we strive to print the truth to the best of our ability. Here is what someone from a legislative computer put on Wikipedia about this newspaper: Do we have spelling and grammer errors? Yes. Do we print rumors that suit our view: Nope. We actually printed for example ten reasons to vote for John Pettit. Why? Because it was in the interest of fariness. But we did everything in our power to defeat him. Why because this county could not win the war on drugs without his defeat. The corruption had become too deep. We have made a decision to NEVER hide behind the idea of non-bias. We are human and hence have bias. We admit it proudly instead and attempt to bring you the reasons for our bias. We spend hours researching in the dark corners of this county’s past and present to find the truth about candidates, elected officials and insiders. But even in the wake of the defeat of John Pettit, someone believes that we are not relevant. That we are not credible. It probably does not come as a surprise that the likely culprit was a supporter of John Pettit. As we have written in Secrets, we will not print their name without absolute proof, but they know who they are. Are we angry? No not really, because we expect this behavior from the defenders of corruption. Consider that while Pettit allegedly took girls from the prison for sex, they stood by and cheered him. While Pettit used snitches to convict very possibly innocent people, they stood by and cheered      ");
array_files[199]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/021508ps.htm","2008-06-06","13K"," POLITICAL SECRETS 2-15-08     ","",""," POLITICAL SECRETS 2-15-08 POLITICAL SECRETS February 15, 2008 The secret is that conservative Republicans feel betrayed. For seven years, they have been defending and promoting the “Republican” position while it became increasingly unpopular. The best analogy is to a wife who “sticks with her man” as he gets a good job by fluke, gets drunk and spends like the proverbial drunken sailor, and overtly starts fights in otherwise calm restaurants. Every time something happens, her man’s position becomes the family position. If the rationale for the family position seems strained, she invents a new rationale, explains it as an example of the family’s integrated philosophy, or simply says that “if people would just do it then they would see we are right”. All she asks is to be appreciated, loved, and accepted. On a statistical level, the husband is very loyal. He has fewer libidinous thoughts about other women than most husbands. He has had fewer flirtations and affairs. The few that he has had, of course, were in front of her or in her bed. She considers this significant. He has explained she is just being emotional. One day she finds evidence that her husband may be having an affair. When she confronts him with it, he unashamedly tells her that he expects to stay married and enjoy her company and support while also having another woman. The only certain thing in life is that his wife is going to look for an opportunity to express a whole lot of very negative emotion. It is for this reason that Mike Huckabee presents John McCain with is best and only possible road to the White House. The wife in our analogy is the long-suffering Republican conservative wing that has defended George W. Bush on Iraq, privatized social security, signing statements, and a host of other issues. The “other woman” is the liberal and moderate Republican-wing who will nominate McCain for the presidency. If we deprive our hypothetical wife from the opportunity to vent her rage as a family fight, she will vent it later. While the emotions are u      ");
array_files[200]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/020808ed.htm","2008-06-06","10K"," GEORGE VITTECK ON THE ASSAULT     ","",""," GEORGE VITTECK ON THE ASSAULT All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com GEORGE VITTECK ON THE ASSAULT February 8, 2008 Canton-George Vitteck, the newly elected chairman of the Washington county Democratic party is on the warpath against all his imagined and potential enemies. Vitteck, who was elected as a throwback to the good old days, wants to punish every Democrat that dared to support Phyllis Ranko Matheny and Steve Toprani. Vitteck is believed to think that those committee people that opposed former District Attorney John Petitt and failed candidate Judith Fisher deserve to be removed or cowed. The result is that Vitteck appears to be doing the dirty work for the two failed candidates in particular Pettit. Vitteck was a long time and close political ally of Pettit. Petitt was the main supporter of Vitteck’s past runs for chairman. Combined with Milan Marinkovich, the former chairman, support for Steve Toprani and open opposition to Pettit, Vitteck was a shoe in to be Pettit’s weapon of revenge on the party. One target of Vitteck’s wrath is Commissioner Larry Maggi. Vitteck was reported to have made phone calls this week attacking the county’s top vote getter for Commissioner. But Vitteck’s assault appears to be amateurish in nature. The timing is bad to say the least and Vitteck has no leverage to change the Maggi position. The fact that Maggi does not face reelection for four years means that Vitteck’s assaults will do little to actually endanger or weaken Maggi long term. But Vitteck and his allies are more vulnerable. One Vitteck faces reelection as chairman before Maggi will as Commissioner. But more importantly Vitteck has an Achilles heel. His wife Judy works for State Rep. Jesse White, his closest ally. As Vitteck attacks people, many are looking at White as the only way to make Vitteck pay. The result is a growing realization that to make Vitteck feel pain, White must lose. But the anti-Vitteck Democrats were unable to find a Democratic candidate against White, leaving a pos      ");
array_files[201]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/opinion/011108ed2.htm","2008-06-06","9K"," FRANK PATERRA’S WAR ON DRUGS     ","",""," FRANK PATERRA’S WAR ON DRUGS All Rights Reserved Send your comments to: Recorder@pulsenet.com FRANK PATERRA’S WAR ON DRUGS January 11, 2008 The Mayor of Charleroi has declared war on drugs in both his hometown and this county. As part of this war, he has brought in the well known Guardian Angels, a group that many in law enforcement consider vigilantes. The question is, what is the mayor to do when all else fails? Paterra has requested for years funding for more police officers in his town. As he stated Wednesday “They turned down my request for more officers and now we have a dead woman in a dumpster”. A powerful arguement in the wake of Charleroi’s first murder since the early 1990’s. The irony of the problem of Charleroi with drugs is presented in the fact that last murder in the town also took place in a building that many have referred to as a “problem”. But Paterra has boldly went on the war path against drugs. He has argued to end the scourge that effects so many lives. But amazingly he has been rebuffed each time he has asked the County Commissioners to give a proclamation of support for the war on drugs. They have not done so to this day. Maybe they are afraid of being seen as supportive of the Guardian Angels. Maybe they are worried about the potential problems about the worst part of Paterra’s plan (mandatory drug testing for elected officials). We will never know for sure. But here is some advice. Write a proclamation declaring war on drugs. Exclude the Guardian Angels if you must. But tell the public that you are committed to fight this scourge. We need you to do this for the sake of all our children.     ");
array_files[202]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/feature/wcp101907b.htm","2008-04-04","12K"," WASHINGTONS CREEPIEST PLACES page 2     ","",""," WASHINGTONS CREEPIEST PLACES page 2 All Rights Reserved WASHINGTONS CREEPIEST PLACES page 2... SOMERSET INN Can you get more creepy than this? The Somerset Inn was the location of two separate homicides. Just look at the scary old sign that still hangs over the former well known bar and restaurant. The most famous murder here was Bob Dickinson. Dickinson was shot in the back of his head with a high powered rifle. Parts of his brain flew over 80 feet all over the parking lot. The Inn soon closed after this infamous murder and in spite of a prime location, no one has reopened the property. It remains much as it was on the day that Dickerson was murdered. A testimony to the truly creepy nature of this building and its bloody past. OLD COUNTY JAIL The old county jail has plenty of reasons to make one scared. The structure is foreboding by itself. From the old stone to the style chosen, it only brings one a feeling of dread. When you consider that most of the murderers we have mentioned here were housed there at one time or another then you can understand just how creepy this old building remains. Renovations have changed the interior and made it more friendly, but some people still claim that it is haunted. YABLONSKI HOME The scene of the infamous massacre of United Mine Workers leader Joc Yablonski, his home in Marianna. Yablonski’s wife and daughter were killed by a trio of killers paid for by opposition union leaders. Yablonski was gunned down because of his attempted reform efforts in the unions. His home is a reminder of a more bloody time in Washington county. It has been rumored to have been the site of a series of murders, though these are unverified. Regardless the age of the structure, combined with its bloody history and out of the way location make it one of the county’s creepiest places. PRICES TAVERN This is the location of the infamous Election Day Massacre. Not only does the former bar have a checkered past, but it is just plain creepy even from the outside. This year it has the added creepy value       ");
array_files[203]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/feature/wcp101907.htm","2008-04-04","13K"," WASHINGTONS CREEPIEST PLACES     ","",""," WASHINGTONS CREEPIEST PLACES All Rights Reserved WASHINGTONS CREEPIEST PLACES October 19, 2007 MILLERS BLOCKHOUSE In the early days of Washington county Indians were a constant worry. Millers Blockhouse was the only place to be safe from Indian attack in the Dutch Fork Lake area. In September 1871, Francis Hupp, Jacob Fisher and Captain Jacob Miller left the blockhouse to scout the area and hunt for stray horses. Stopping at the home of Jonathan Link, Shawnee Indians attacked and killed Jacobb Fisher and mortally wounded Francis Hupp. Francis made his way back to the cabin and Miller and Link were taken prisoners by the Indians. Link was later killed by Indians, but Miller escaped only to die in the famous March 31, 1782 attack by upwards of 70 Shawnee warriors. In that attack, John Hupp and Jacob Miller were attacked while out looking for a stray colt (maybe they should have kept better track of the horses). Ann Hupp, John’s wife defended the Blockhouse along with Frederick Miller, 11, Edward Gaither and his family and the elderly Mathias Ault. Ann fired guns from each of the loopholes in a desperate attempt to save the lives of the young children. She fired so many times that the Indians believed they were facing a large force of men. Frederick Miller was injured when he attempted to run for Rice’s Fort but was shot and chased by two indians back into the blockhouse. They survived throughout the day until three young men, including Hupp’s 16 year old brotherJacob Rowe worked their way into the blockhouse from Rice’s Fort. The question is whether the ghosts of the Indians and the settlers killed still haunt the area. Though we were only able to stand near the road, each time I have been there I have have felt odd. Now after researching the story, I think that I can finally understand the reason for the uneasy feeling that surrounds an area that was the center of so many deaths on the early Washington County frontier. W&J A website devoted to ghosts in Pennsylvania claims that Washington Jefferson College’s Pr      ");
array_files[204]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/feature/power4.htm","2008-04-04","29K"," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) page 5     ","",""," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) page 5 THE 100 MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON COUNTY (2008)... page 5 74) Mary Bastin-Player-Democrat-The queen of five town, Bastin continues to exert influence over the California and five-town area. Nice woman that is easily overlooked. 75) Harlan Shober-Player-Democrat-The failed Commissioner candidate is still the man in Chartiers Township. A long time supervisor, homebuilder and all around nice man, Shober is someone that will always be part of the local game of politics. 76) Pat Smider-Attorney-Democrat-Smider continues to gain solicitorships and stay involved in the process. Nice man, though he can be rough in the courtroom against his opponents. 77) John McCormick Petrisek-Attorney-Democrat-John Petrisek will run for judge the next time an opening happens. Though he lost, this nice man from Bentleyville will eventually gain a following. The reason is easy; he is a genuine human being. 78) Joe Francis-Attorney-Democrat-Francis has ambitions to become a District Justice or a Judge. This is the reason he is on our list. Whether he can achieve them or not remains to be seen, but the fact that he is working towards those goals speak to his ambitions. 79) Frank Pattera-Mayor of Charleroi-Republican- Paterra’s war on drugs is bringing him fans all over the county. A failed Commissioner candidate in the early 90’s Paterra has shown that everyone can make a comeback if the timing is right. Paterra was behind bringing the Guardian Angels to Washington County. 80) Kim Stolfer-Player-Democrat Head of FOAC-Head of the Firearm Owners against Crime and nearly a resident of Washington County, Stolfer has exerted influence in the county. His group puts out flyers telling voters who the pro-gun candidates are and who they are not. The result is a great deal of influence in hunter rich Washington County. 81) Tom Blackhurst-Councilman City of Washington-Democrat-Former firefighter Blackhurst was the top vote getter in the city of Washington last year. Blackhurs      ");
array_files[205]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/feature/power3.htm","2008-04-04","29K"," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) page 4     ","",""," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) page 4 THE 100 MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON COUNTY (2008)... page 4 48) Matt Keranko and Jim Jeffres-Attorneys-Democrat-Future stars of local politics, Keranko and Jeffres are showing that one can break through the noise by hard work and determination. Strong supporters of Steven Toprani’s campaign against John Pettit. Front men for George Retos. 49) Julie Uram-Player-Republican-Uram is still the Grand Dame of Washington County Republican politics. Though her son Tom is taking more of a leadership role, it is Julie that is still queen bee. 50) Cookie McDonald-Player-Democrat-A strong civil rights activist and a smart businessman, McDonald is a quiet player that effects the political scene. McDonald’s daughter Tracey is an assistant District Attorney and a smart player also. 51) Steven Fischer-Bureaucrat-Republican-How does one rise on the list while losing? Well the scion of Roger Raymond Fischer showed it is possible. Fischer is now the chief of staff for the Toprani regime in the District Attorney’s office. The result will be a rising position for the young man from Washington. 52) Brian Pizzi-Attorney-Democrat-One of the classiest people in Washington, Pizzi has a strong practice and continues to play in the political arena. Supported Pettit so that lowers his rating. A perfect gentleman. 53) Chummy Lignelli-Player-Democrat-To watch the political decline of Lignelli has been one of the tragedies of the past year. Lignelli was forced to support Pettit and has recently suffered the death of his friend Pete Lorenzo. A quality man who helped put Donora on the map. 54) Michael Neville-Bank Employee-Republican-Neville is a lot like Fischer but for other reasons. Neville has grown in power because he has an impressive showing for Commissioner. The former Peters Township councilmember needs to find a way to stay in the game though. 55) Tim Warco-Coroner-Democrat-Warco has survived the Pettit fiasco and continues in his office as Coroner. Without any maj      ");
array_files[206]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/feature/power2.htm","2008-04-04","29K"," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) page 3     ","",""," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) page 3 THE 100 MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON COUNTY (2008)... page 3 25) Clemmy Allen-Union Organizer-Democrat-Allen is the most visible representative of Union power in Washington County politics. Allen has overseen the weakening of the Union’s position in the county. Allen has made a series of bad decisions that have weakened the position of the unions here. Once a powerhouse, unions are now an afterthought in most serious conversations. 26) George Vitteck-Party Chairman-Democrat-The man that runs the Democratic Party seems bent on insuring that the party is “pure”. Those that dared not tow the party line will be punished in a Vitteck regime. The question is how do you punish volunteers? 27) Mary Lynn Drewitz-Attorney-Democrat-A smart attorney that is the guiding force in the county’s legal decisions. Someone that knows the players and knows how to chart a reasonable course of action. Grossly underestimated at times. 28) Jeff Kotula-Bureaucrat-Democrat-The king of county propaganda, Kotula writes the cover stories, the excuses and the praise for those in power at the county. A bright young man that could have a brighter future if he learns that not everyone buys the lie all the time. Also needs to have a plan to be more than a lackey for those in power, how he achieves those plans remains to be seen. One of the county’s best-dressed men. 29) Jesse White-State Representative-Democrat-The county’s youngest and most immature Democratic leader. White has yet to learn when to act with grace and honor. He is serving his first term in office and seems destined for a short political career. In many ways he is a throwback to the days of yore in Washington County, an angry coal patch boy now in power. The upside for White is his willingness to take on those in power when he disagrees. The downside is if he starts to enjoy the perks that come with power. His future depends on maturing and learning that politics is chess not checkers. 30) Joyce Ellis-Communit      ");
array_files[207]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/feature/power1.htm","2008-04-04","30K"," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) page 2     ","",""," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) page 2 THE 100 MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON COUNTY (2008)... page 2 8) Sammy Romano-Sheriff-Democrat- Romano is one of the county’s youngest and brightest stars in local politics. Romano is only in his first term, but he already looks like lifer in the position. Romano is believed to have formed an alliance with State Rep. Tim Solobay. The result is that the chief competitor to Romano in the last election. R.T. Bell of Canonsburg, Pa. will not challenge Romano next time. The Maggi coalition of course will be hunting for a candidate. Romano has good looks and a quiet, friendly demeanor, which serves him well. Given that his ambition is to stay Sheriff, Romano should be safe in his next election. Romano threatens no one long term and that will hold him in good stead. Last year: 7th 9) Ray Bologna-Player/Businessman-Democrat-Bologna had a bad year but that does not lessen his pocketbook. A major financier in local politics, Bologna backed the wrong horse in John Pettit and that is the reason for him dropping on the list. But his ability to help fund campaigns and hold fundraising events at his Pepsi Roadhouse means that Bologna can never drop far on the list. Last year: 2nd 10) Angelo Falconi-Businessman/Player-Democrat-Falconi is aging, but his money still can talk. His interests are everywhere. Like many major players, his family supported Pettit and lost. When Falconi dies one day, Ed Morascyzk will take over leadership of this group. Falconi’s interest will continue to be a factor in everyone’s decisions for years to come. The decline is due to health issues and the ties to the Pettit campaign. Last year: 5th 11) Bill DeWeese-State Representative-Democrat-This powerhouse of statewide politics actually represents part of Washington County and hence is on the list. DeWeese is about to be the new John Pettit, the man most likely to drop entirely from this list. DeWeese faces a series of dangers including an well-organized opponent and an Attorney Gen      ");
array_files[208]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/feature/power.htm","2008-04-04","31K"," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008)     ","",""," The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County (2008) THE 100 MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON COUNTY March 7, 2008 The 2008 100 most powerful people in Washington County is our seventh edition. But this year is easily the most volatile and complicated year for us. The defeat of former powerhouse John Pettit and the subsequent investigation by the FBI and US attorney’s office has shaken the halls of power. The result is a dynamic that could lead to the final toppling of the old regime, when and if younger and less corrupt individuals start to run for office. Another result is that the President Judge, Debbie O’Dell Seneca is easily the most powerful person in the county. But given the prohibition on the involvement in politics by sitting judges, we have always refrained and will continue to refrain from listing any judge or District Justice on the list. But Seneca is heads and tails above all of the individuals on the list at this time. 1) Larry Maggi-County Commissioner-Democrat-This is the first year that we have listed the now Chairman of the board of Commissioner. Maggi has been on a slow rise in political power in the county and 2007 proved to be a good year for the Commissioner. Maggi saw the defeat of his hated enemy John Pettit, the rise of himself as top vote gainer again and finally his taking over control of county government’s apparatus. In addition, he survived pitfalls surrounding the Paulette Benard case, the problem of assuming power from Bracken Burns and a dividing chairman’s race in the Democratic Party. All of these issues have pointed to his maturing as a political figure. If he could add both a better knowledge of the issues surrounding the county and a strong work ethic, Maggi could grow into the position. If he does not, he sows the seeds of his own future defeat. Last Year: 16th 2) Tim Solobay-State Representative-Democrat-Solobay has been another of the few rising stars of the Democratic Party. The now clear leader of the “Canonsburg faction” of the Democratic Party, Solobay has       ");
array_files[209]=new Array(0,1,"http://weekly-recorder.com/feature/","2008-04-04","11K"," The Weekly Recorder - Features     ","",""," The Weekly Recorder - Features All Rights Reserved Washington Countys Sexiest Women October 5, 2007 Washington Countys Sexiest Men September 28, 2007 Read More... Washington Countys Creepiest Places October 19, 2007 Read More... The 100 Most Powerful People in Washington County March 7, 2008 Read More... Send your comments to: editor@weekly-recorder.com     ");
array_files[210]=new Array(0,1,"http://www.weekly-recorder.com/feature/2007women.htm","2008-04-04","8K"," Washington Countys Sexiest Women 2007     ","",""," Washington Countys Sexiest Women 2007 Washington Countys Sexiest Women 2007 Jennifer Toprani, Kelly Rae Nice, Joyce Ellis, Dr. Shirley Lazorchek, Sara Ostovic, Hollie Zavallo, Sonia Stopperich, Marlene Luketich Kochis, Rose Tennent All Rights Reserved     ");
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