Potter County was ahead of its time in November 1945, when the local farming community—concerned about soil erosion, water pollution and the future of agriculture — established Pennsylvania’s first conservation district. Impact of that courageous action, fiercely opposed by some and staunchly supported by others, has been immeasurable, and not just within the county’s borders. Starting the late 1930s, three […]
2020-11-07
County considering ‘prison board’
FREEPotter County Commissioners Nancy Grupp, Barry Hayman and Paul Heimel are considering a new system of management for the county jail. Potter is one of just two counties in the state that still require their elected sheriff to serve in a dual role as jail warden. Under the plan that’s being studied, a seven-member “prison board” would be established. Members […]
Ole Bull Museum plan scrapped
FREEPlans for a Ole Bull Museum in southern Potter County have been scrapped. A spokesman for the non-profit organization that had announced plans for the attraction several years ago now confirms that the project is off the table. Spunky Norwegian Foundation still exists on paper with a mailing address in St. Marys, but its website has been removed and its […]
Elk hunt has been no ‘slam dunk’
FREEAnother controlled elk hunt comes to a close on Saturday. At least 30 of the 104 licensed hunters had not filled their tags as of Thursday afternoon, perhaps shattering the myth that elk-hunting in northcentral Pennsylvania is a less-than-sporting activity. Field studies and results from previous hunts have verified Pa. Game Commission reports that the species has re-established itself across […]
Three more arrests made in ‘Pez’ drug case
FREEThree more people have been arrested in connection with a drug case that resulted in two Emporium children being treated for drug overdoses. The victims, ages six and seven, thought they were chewing on harmless pellets of “Pez” candy. In reality, they were taking a megadose of benzodiazepine, a drug used to treat anxiety, panic attacks and depression. They were […]
COVID spreads into schools, county office
FREEThings have gone from bad to worse as the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic continues into a ninth month. The virus has crept into public institutions. This week, a second Coudersport Area School District student tested positive. Cases have also been confirmed in the Northern Potter, Port Allegany and Ridgway school districts. Potter County Commissioner Nancy Grupp confirmed reports that she and […]