JACKSON TOWNSHIP NEWS

Your Community News Source
Spring, 2010

BUSINESS PARK PROJECT MOVES FORWARD
Jackson Township continues moving forward towards the development of a Business Park along the Route 22 corridor. The Supervisors are meeting on a regular basis with a team of individuals working towards this project becoming a reality. Those individuals represent State & Federal officials, Cambria County Industrial Development Authority, JARI, Keller Engineers, Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission, Richard Sutter & Associates and other local officials. Several studies have been completed or are underway including archeological, transportation and wetlands. In addition appraisals are being conducted on several properties near the Business Park site and Keller Engineers is working with JETSA on getting sewage to the park area. Recent developments include the Board of Supervisors approving a Pennsylvania RCAP Grant Agreement for $500,000 at their January 14^th Meeting. Also several properties have been acquired for where the proposed Business Park will be located. Several of the acquired parcels will be traded with the State of Pennsylvania for a 100 acre property located on the northerly side of Route 22. Additional financing is being sought for the project through a variety of funding sources. Once the property is acquired and some infrastructure developed, sites within the nearly 200 acre Business Park can be marketed to potential tenants. The primary draw of this site is its location along busy Route 22 and the availability of undeveloped land. It is projected that the park could have up to 800 jobs when fully developed not to mention a huge spin-off effect the Business Park would have on the local and regional economy. The Business Park Project is a direct result of public input from the Jackson Township Comprehensive Plan that was adopted in 2006 where jobs and employment were the number one concern of residents.

SENIOR CENTER TO HOLD MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY
The Jackson Township Senior Center will host a special Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 31st at 11:00 a.m. This will be the 7th Memorial Day Ceremony held at Veterans Park since 2005. The ceremony will honor the service men and women who were killed in all wars as well as all other Veterans. The event is open to the public and it is hoped that the turnout will be good as it is very important for everyone to show their support for our veterans as well as troops currently serving. Last year there were more than 120 people who attended. The Veterans Monument has become a focal point of the Memorial & Veterans Day ceremonies and currently has 1,110 names of Jackson Township veterans listed on it. If you know of any veterans not listed on the monument, please complete a form and submit their name to Jackson Township, 513 Pike Road, Johnstown, PA 15909. Forms can be obtained at www.jacksontwppa.com or at the Municipal Building, Senior Center, Water Authority or Sewer Authority. All names submitted must be verified for Veteran status and residency. This year's ceremony will feature special guest speaker, Bill Kish, retired Director from the Governor's Veterans Outreach & Assistance Center in Greensburg, PA. Bill resides in Jackson Township and was instrumental in the verification of all of the names listed on the Jackson Township Veterans Monument. As in the past, the Johnstown VFW Post 155 will have their Honor Rifle Team in attendance. In addition special music will be provided by Corey Shirk from Central Cambria and a representative from the local clergy will be on hand. Also playing an important role in the ceremony will be Jackson Twp. Troop 204 Boy Scouts. If there are any questions on the Memorial Day Ceremony or the Memorial / Monument, please feel free to call Frank Singel at 322-3327 or Dave Hirko at 749-0725.

MITCHELL PARK PROJECT BEGINS
Work has begun on the long awaited Mitchell Park Phase I Project. According to Berkebile Brothers, contractor for the Project, work should begin in April and be completed sometime in May. One of the major improvements will be public restrooms for the park which are much needed considering the Park is often very crowded through the summer, especially when East Taylor-Jackson Little league is holding practices, games and even tournaments. The new restrooms will eliminate the need to have porta-johns at the Park. Other improvements will be the addition of 2 large pavilions complete with electric that can accommodate up to 140 each for picnics, reunions, weddings, birthday parties or other events. Other amenities will include BBQ Pits, Horseshoe Pits and access to water. Additional parking will also be available to accommodate the additional people who will be using the park. The Project is made possible with the help of a $125.000 Grant from the DCNR (Dept. Of Community & Natural Resources. The bid from Berkebile Brothers was $207,116. Jackson Township along with JETSA & the Jackson Township Water Authority did much of the infrastructure work to maximize cost savings. This included ground clearing, construction of road and parking areas and installation of water and sewer lines. Additional costs were incurred including engineering and planning bringing the total project to approx. $300,000. Upon completion of Phase I, a plan for Phase II has already been developed and a grant application can be filed for additional funding. Phase II includes park lighting, landscaping, another large pavilion, additional small pavilion, new playground equipment, volleyball courts and a walking trail around the perimeter of Mitchell Park. Upon completion, Mitchell Park will be one of the premier parks in Cambria County if not the entire region.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
INFORMATION NEED UPDATED?
If you received this newsletter and your name or address information is incorrect, or if you know of any resident of Jackson Township who didn’t receive it, please call the Township Office at 749-0725.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON SWIGLE MOUNTAIN WATER LINE
Construction is finally underway on the Swigle Mountain Water Project. D. T. Construction of Dunbar, PA was the low bidder on line construction with their bid being $1,224,943. For the water tank, Mid-Atlantic Storage Systems was the low bidder at $271,460. Pipe is being laid in the ground for the 22,000 foot service line and public water will soon be available to 42 homes, many of which had to haul water or only had a limited supply for their use. Over the past several years, the Township has hired Rich Wray of Hegemann & Wray engineers to perform preliminary engineering work, file for permits and pursue funding for this project. Rich Wray is now the engineer for the Jackson Township Water Authority after successfully putting together the financing for this Project which includes funds from several sources including a $390,000 Grant from the Bureau of Abandoned Mines and the remainder coming from a Pennvest low interest loan. Financing was arranged through Somerset Trust Company. Once the line is constructed and tested, residents will receive notices from the Jackson Township Water Authority to tap-in and will be required to pay a mandatory tap-in fee to get connected to the line.

COMMUNITY BLOCK GRANT FUNDS SPUR JACKSON PROJECTS
Jackson Township is one of four communities in Cambria County considered an "Entitlement Community" in the Community Development Block Grant Program. The others are Adams Township, Cambria Township and Cresson Township. One of the requirements is that the community must have over 4,000 residents and also have areas in the municipality that are considered low to moderate income. This year the Supervisors anticipate approving use of the funds totaling $ 110,000 to be put towards the construction of a sanitary sewer line along Chickaree Hill Road. The line which would be built in phases would go from Wagner Road to the Vintondale Borough line. This area has had numerous sewage problems in the past and the line would be a major improvement. Construction of Phase I will begin in 2011 and continue through 2012. Estimated cost of the project is $200,000. Multi Links Construction of Pittsburgh has been hired to do a Feasibility Study on the project.  Additional CDBG monies of $60,000 became available this year as a result of the Federal Stimulosus Recovery Program. As a result the Loraine Road Sewer Line can be extended to pick up an additional 7 homes with construction starting this year at the beginning of April. Claycomb Excavating of Claysburg has been awarded the contract. The line extension is made possible with the additional funds of $60,000 combined with an additional $60,000 left from the 2009 Block Grants awarded. Past projects made possible by CDBG monies included the development of a Senior Center, construction of storm drainage system in Vinco, Mitchell Park improvements including a tennis court, basketball court, softball field, bleachers and other amenities, sewer lines on Loraine Road and White Street as well as water lines on Solar Street, Wagner Road & Chickaree Hill Road. Other funds have been used for the rehabilitation of 11 homes by those with special needs and the clearing of vacant, dilapidated structures in Jackson Township. The Program which began in 1984 has bought well over two million dollars into Jackson Township since its inception.

2010 HERITAGE FESTIVAL PROMISES FUN FOR EVERYONE!
The Jackson Township Heritage Festival has grown quite popular by advertising and word of mouth and is now considered a major event in the region. This is quite an accomplishment since its humble beginnings. It's hard to believe that the Heritage Festival will be celebrating its 7th anniversary this year! Last year, from start to finish, the festival attracted thousands of people from Jackson Township, surrounding communities and many from throughout Cambria County and beyond. There were even quite a few people that came in from out of state for the weekend of food, fun and entertainment. The Heritage Festival will be held this year on Friday, July 16, Saturday, July 17 & Sunday, July 18. Although many details need to be worked out, some can be shared at this time. Returning this year on Friday evening will be the Johnstown Classic Rockers who will perform music from the 50's to the 80's and is comprised of some of the best musicians to ever play in the area. In addition the 3rd Annual Car Cruise-In will also take place beginning at 6 pm. Several car club enthusiasts are organizing this special event. Many of the food and craft booths as well as other vendors will also open up Friday night this year being that last year, there was a huge crowd on hand. One new addition this year will be a free catered luncheon with entertainment on Friday, July 16^th at noon. The luncheon is sponsored by Somerset Trust and is for all of their "Horizon 50" customers (age 50 and older). As in years past, there will be continuous entertainment alternating on two stages both Saturday & Sunday. Festival hours will be Noon-9 pm on Saturday and Noon-6:00 pm on Sunday. Entertainment on Saturday will begin from noon to 2:00 with Tree, an Irish folk music group. New this year will be the Bayou Bandits from the Harrisburg area. They will be performing from 2:30 to 5:00 and are known for their Zydeco music which has a Cajun flair and has been a big hit at the Johnstown Folk Festival for many years. The Bayou Bandits perform through the US and are a real crowd pleaser! John Robertson will be returning to do a brand new magic & illusion show from 5:30 to 6:30. The Fabulous Flashbacks, a regular at the Festival will be returning from 7 to 11 pm to pack the house with their famous oldies show. Back by popular demand, a spectacular fireworks display is planned at 9:30 pm. Sunday will begin with Singer Hill Grace Brethren Church holding their morning service at 10:30 am. Everyone is welcome! Last year the service drew over 500 people. In addition to a message from Pastor Drew Walther there will be special music and refreshments. The Masters who are based in Jackson Township will return to play from noon to 1:30 pm to perform their awesome style of Southern Gospel music. Also returning from 1:30 to 4:30 is Beavercreek, a real crowd pleaser who put on an excellent show with their own brand of Bluegrass Music. Mary & Randy Ord, two of the original members who were not able to be here last year will be back to entertain the crowd. Clay Bowser will be back to entertain from 4:30 to 6:00. Clay plays a wide variety of music and even takes requests from the audience. Back by popular demand will be NoMAD (North of Mason & Dixon) who are considered Pittsburgh's hottest country band. NoMAD was a huge hit last year and crowd pleaser and you won’t want to miss their show / concert. NoMAD will play from 6:30 to 9:30 and are sure to entertain the crowd. They have opened up for many of the most popular country entertainers including Brooks & Dunn, Toby Keith and Rascal Flatts and won first place in a band competition sponsored by Kenny Chesney last year. They released their debut CD called "Born and Raised" and their first two singles have charted nationally in the top 100. They will soon have a second CD released. Over the past year their lead singer, Dave August, even appeared in a movie titled "The Road". In addition, they have appeared on several nationally syndicated radio shows and are destined for future fame in the country music business. As in past festivals, there will be plenty of activities and games for the kids. Usual favorites will include clowns, face painting, hay rides, games and Big Bouncy jumping area. The Jackson Heritage Festival will also have a wide variety of food, craft and vendor booths set up. The cost to have a booth is only $25 for crafters and vendors and $35 for food vendors for the two day event. If you are interested in having a booth at the Heritage Festival this year, please complete the vendor application in this Newsletter or contact Dave Hirko at 749-0725 or Betty Perry at 322-0938 for additional information.  There are many expenses to hosting the festival and the budget is approximately $24,000 for 2010. In order to put on a successful festival this year we are once again counting on local sponsor support. Sponsors contributing or committing to the support of the Festival so far include Construction Equipment Services, Dolan's Welding & Steel, The Jackson Township Senior Center, Mercik's Ideal Market, Neighbors Who Care, Dr. Donald Leckey, Hagerich Auto Sales, Highmark Blue Cross-Blue Shield, Laurel Sand & Stone, Martin Oil Company, P. Joseph Lehman Engineers, Luther P. Miller, Rose Excavating, Vantage Physical Therapy, Damin Printing & Wyse Memorials. If you or your business would like to be a sponsor, please call Dave Hirko at 749-0725 to receive an application. By being a sponsor you will be recognized in advertisements in the Johnstown Tribune-Democrat & all five Mainline Newspapers as well as flyers and posters displayed throughout Cambria County. In addition a program distributed to everyone attending will also recognize those helping to sponsor this event. We hope you’ll consider being a part of the Jackson Township Heritage Festival in 2010.

UPCOMING RECREATION EVENTS
Listed below are some of the upcoming events and activities scheduled in Jackson Township over the upcoming months:

~5th Annual Fishing Derby
The Fishing Derby will be held on Saturday, May 8th at Woodland Park just off of Route 22 towards Ebensburg. Ages 12 and under are welcome and admission is FREE. Prizes will be awarded and refreshments will be available. Registration begins at 8 am with the Fishing Derby going from 9 am to 3 pm. The event will be held rain or shine. Come and bring your friends! If you have any questions or need additional information, call John Lythgoe at 749-8223 or Jackson Township at 749-0725. The Fishing Derby is sponsored by the Jackson Township Community Rod & Gun Club in cooperation with the Recreation Commission.

~Baltimore Inner-Harbor Bus Trip
A bus trip is scheduled on Saturday, June 12th to beautiful Baltimore Inner-Harbor, one of America's top tourist destinations. Inner-Harbor has tons of things to do, lots of great shopping and dining, harbor and city tours, Fort McHenry, the world famous National Aquarium and more! Buses will depart Jackson Elementary at 6 am via Lodestar luxury tour buses and arrive back at approx. 11:00 pm. Dinner is at Inner-Harbor on your own where there is a wide variety of sit-down restaurants or a large food court. Cost is only $35.00 per person for bus transportation to and from Baltimore Inner-Harbor. Reservations are on a first come, first paid basis. To reserve call 749-0725 or complete the sign-up form in this newsletter.

CENTRAL CAMBRIA COALITION MARKS 4th ANNIVERSARY
It's hard to believe the Central Cambria Coalition has celebrated its four year anniversary in March. In the past four years the three municipalities (Cambria Township, Ebensburg Borough and Jackson Township) who formed the Coalition have a lot to be proud of. The group has been successful in obtaining several grants including one for $25,000 towards the joint purchase of a Street Sweeper between Cambria & Ebensburg, a grant for $25,000 towards the joint purchase of a Paving Machine between Cambria & Jackson and one for of $22,100 the purchase of a Crack Sealing Machine to be used by all three municipalities. In addition, the three municipalities jointly purchased an Asphalt Hauling Machine for $18,700. Besides equipment sharing grants, a planning grant in the amount of $45,000 was also awarded by the DCED for a Joint Municipal Comprehensive Plan. The plan was completed with the help of Richard Sutter & Associates, planning consultants from Hollidaysburg and adopted by all three municipalities in 2008. An additional grant has been awarded in the amount of $32,500. "Phase II Planning" from the DCED (Department of Community & Economic Development). This grant has been used to update subdivision and zoning ordinances and maps in the three municipalities. Through this process each municipality maintains their individual identity while looking for consistency and coordination in zoning along municipal borders. In 2009 the Coalition explored the possibility of hiring a Building Code / Zoning Enforcement Officer. Instead of hiring an individual the municipalities opted to appoint MDIA (Middle Department Inspection Agency) to handle the State Building Code and the issuance of permits for a one year period. At the end of the this year they will evaluate MIDA and any other options available to provide this service for upcoming years. Aside from grant success, the Coalition has had studies done on sewage along Route 22 and the possibility of a regional police force. Other topics discussed over the past years have included park maintenance, oil and gas drilling, water lines, windmills, zoning, wireless communications, emergency services, traffic, code enforcement and economic development to name a few. A Central Cambria Recreation Map was released in 2008 and copies were distributed to every household as well as made available at various public buildings and businesses. Another project involved compiling a listing of all the equipment available in all three municipalities. This resource would enable each municipality to borrow a piece of equipment from another at no rental cost to the municipality. This is especially helpful for items that are needed on occasion but not on a regular basis. The cost savings benefits is just another example of how the Coalition cooperation truly is a success story!

PROPERTY OWNERS ENCOURAGED TO CLEAN UP
Spring is upon us and we would like to encourage all property owners to take advantage of the nice weather and do a "Spring Clean Up". One of the most common complaints received is that of unsightly piles of junk or rubbish on properties in the Township. This also includes junked and abandoned vehicles. The Township has made an effort to work towards elimination of some of the blight on various properties and has had some success but there is much more to be done. Al Gillin has agreed to help out with vehicle removal and you can read more about this in the following article. The Laurel Highlands Landfill has a great program for tire recycling and the cost is only $1.00 per tire, far below what others charge. The current garbage contract allows for unlimited curbside pickup of large items unless they are hazardous. 1 Free Landfill Pass per quarter can be picked up at the Township Municipal Building. The free pass can be used for a "pick up" load of any non-hazardous junk or items you wish to remove from your property. Jackson also has recycling at the Municipal Building that includes clear glass, plastic, brown glass, newspapers, metal cans and magazines. Pennsylvania Cleanways also offers appliance and electronics recycling several times during a year. Take some time and take a look around your property and see if there’s any unsightly piles of junk or abandoned vehicles that you can remove to help beautify Jackson Township. If you have any questions on any of the above programs, please contact the Township Office at 749-0725.

JUNK VEHICLE REMOVAL
If you have a junked vehicle that needs removed from your property and you’re not sure how to go about it, perhaps the following information will help. Al Gillin who operates a licensed junkyard along Adams Avenue has agreed to tow any junked vehicles that you would like to have removed from your property. According to Mr. Gillin, in most cases there will be no charge to any Township resident for this service unless there is great difficulty getting to the vehicle to pick it up. If you wish to have junked vehicles removed from your property, you may contact Mr. Gillin at 322-4366 to see if you qualify for this free service.

VEHICLE BATTERY DROP-OFF
Every wonder how to dispose of any old batteries from cars, trucks, lawn mowers, tractors, etc. that you may have laying around your property? They are considered hazardous so you cannot put them out with your garbage. You can however drop them off at Naugles Auto & Truck Sales free of charge where they will see that they are properly processed for disposal or recycling. Naugles Auto & Truck Sales is located at 3309 William Penn Avenue near Mundys Corner. If you have any questions concerning battery disposal, please contact Eric Naugle at 659-7429.

JACKSON ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY LITTER CLEAN-UP PROGRAM
Jackson Township groups over the years have participated in various litter clean-up programs sponsored by PennDOT and Pennsylvania Cleanways. While being a great program, PennDOT’s Adopt-A-Highway program is for State Roads only. Now Jackson Township has a similar program where Township roads can be adopted as well. Your group of neighbors, church, business or organization is welcome to participate by adopting a Township road or street. By adopting a highway you would be required to perform a minimum of 2 litter clean-ups per year. Some groups may want to do more than that depending on the need. If your group wishes to adopt a road, Jackson Township will provide gloves, safety vests and garbage bags for the clean-up effort. Your group will also have a name plate posted on the road that you have adopted. At the time of the clean-up, release forms must be signed by those participating. Jackson Township currently has 14 groups involved in cleaning up various sections of 15 roads within Jackson Township on one of the 3 available programs. According to Don Godish who is in charge of the Adopt-A-Highway program for Cambria County, Pennsylvania has more volunteers in this type of program than any other State in the US. These programs encourage community pride and will help make Jackson Township a cleaner place to live. If your group of friends, neighbors, organization or business would be interested in adopting a Township Road or a portion thereof, please feel free to contact the Township Office at 749-0725.

Groups in Jackson Adopt-A-Highway Program:
Anderson Drive - Neighbors Who Care
Bald Eagle Street - Neighbors Who Care
Courter & Fairview Avenues - Neighbors Who Care
Griffith Avenue - Neighbors Who Care
Harmony Drive - Neighbors Who Care
Kissell Lane - Neighbors Who Care
Mile Hill Road - Mile Hill Neighbors
Pike Road West - Neighbors Who Care
Your Street? - Your Group or Business?
(Are you interested in this program? Call the Township Office at 749-0725)

Groups in PennDOT Adopt-A-Highway Program:
Benshoff Hill Road - Neighbors Who Care
Chickaree Hill Road - Waste Management - Laurel Highlands Landfill
Dishong Mt. Road - Committee to Preserve Rager Mountain
Route 271 - Nanty-Glo Moose
Route 271 - Pike Grace Brethren Church
Route 271 - Vinco Brethren Church
Swigle Mt. Road - Swigle Mountain Neighbors
US Route 22 - Appalachian Chiropractic
US Route 22 - Cambria Co. Christian School
US Route 22 - Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club
US Route 22 - St. Pauls Lutheran Church

INTERESTED IN SERVING YOUR COMMUNITY?
Have you ever wondered how you can serve the community you live in? Jackson Township welcomes anyone interested in serving on a Authority, Board or Commission to submit a letter, note or email saying you are interested in serving on a Board or Authority in the event that there are openings. If you are interested, your letter would be kept on file at the Township office where you would be contacted if an opening would occur at which time you could accept or decline. Authorities include the Sewer Authority and Water Authority. Commissions include Planning & Recreation. There is also the Zoning Hearing Board. Another group where participation is encouraged is the Historical Preservation Committee. All letters and notes should be mailed to Jackson Township Supervisors, 513 Pike Road, Johnstown, PA 15909. You may also drop it off in person at the Municipal Building or you can send an email to office@jacksontwppa.com By volunteering you can make a difference in your community. Any and all inquiries would be greatly appreciated!

ETJ FIELD LIGHTING INITIATIVE UPDATE
Plans are finally coming to life for the ETJ Little League on their strategy to install field lights to Mitchell Park Field #1. For months, ETJ has been working with Jackson Township officials, Jackson Township Recreation Commission, and major sponsors on getting this initiative off the ground. ETJ, a non-profit organization, has been in existence locally promoting sportsmanship, providing guidance, and youth development for over 30 years. "Our organization's main objective is serving our kids in the area", said Al Boring, ETJ Booster and Field Lighting Initiative Committee member. He added, "every young ball player's dream is to play under the lights. I know it was mine growing up and if we can do this for our kids, we met our objective. We're very happy!"  On Saturday, March 20th, workers from REA Electric Cooperative started the installation of the light poles. REA has been a major supporter of the initiative and have donated manpower and equipment for this project. " I can't say enough about REA and what they've done for this initiative. A few months ago they approached us and wanted to know how they could help," said Boring. Another major sponsor that has been a big part of the plan has been Somerset Trust Company. "With Somerset Trust moving into the township, they were looking for ways to support local youth projects," Boring added. "They called me and wanted to offer their support. They believed in our objective and supported our mission. They graciously offered our organization a monetary donation towards the lighting initiative. We are truly grateful."  In the upcoming weeks, light fixtures will be mounted to the poles and the remaining work needed to finish this project will be carried out. Completion of the lighting initiative is on target for the start up of this year's baseball season. ETJ Boosters currently are working on plans to commemorate the completion of the lights by having a special "Opening Night Celebration" to kick off the season with games to be played under the lights. Other activities are being organized. Details of this special evening are still being planned. "The support for this project has been remarkable," said Denny Grove, past ETJ President and Field Lighting Initiative Committee member. He added, "Our kids are very important to us. Giving them this opportunity has been our goal. It not only benefits them today but for years to come." Without any doubt with the addition of lights to Mitchell Park Field #1 and the current township renovation project going on, it is a sure bet we can all be proud of the outcome of Mitchell Park. We truly have a "gem" in our backyards and a place for recreation we can all be a part of and enjoy. As mentioned, this initiative has been supported by many and without the help of others it would be difficult to imagine where it would be. Boring and Grove agreed, "we couldn't of done this without the support of our Township Supervisors, Recreation Committee, and Dave Hirko. They've all been right there for us and supporting every step of the way." There are also many others that have been instrumental. Boring added, " we got a real good group of guys that have really helped. I'd really want to send a special thanks to a few individuals for their utmost commitment to this project; Jeff Dishong and his REA crew and Al Conrad, ETJ Electrician for being instrumental on organizing the purchase of materials and working with suppliers."

December, 2009
The figures for December were as follows: 911 Calls dispatched to Police: 325 Reportable Part I Crimes: 10 broken down as follows: Larceny-7, Assaults-1, Burglaries-1 and Robberies-1. Reportable Part II Crimes: 21 broken down as follows: DUI (Driving While Under the Influence)-4, Receiving Stolen Property-4, Disorderly Conduct-1, Drugs-1, Drunkenness-1, Embezzlement-1, Forgery-1, Fraud-1, Vandalism-1 and all others-6. Calls Resulting in Cases: 20, Total Arrestees: 9, Total Suspects: 5, Total Victims: 9, DUI Arrests: 4, Traffic Citations: 27, Non-Traffic Citations: 2, Total Warnings: 0

FIRE COMPANY NEWS & EVENTS
Finally, Spring has arrived! The Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company would like to remind residents about "Brush Fire Season". They know everyone is anxious to get their property in shape for summer, so please burn brush responsibly. Pick a day that is not windy or wait until after a rainfall and ALWAYS burn away from any structures. The Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company has several upcoming events they would like to announce for 2010. They are as follows:

SENIOR CENTER NEWS
The Center is buzzing with many upcoming events. Here is a sampling of upcoming events: Medicare & Health Insurance Counseling will be offered by Jim & Barb Crissey, Cambria County Apprise Insurance Coordinators. Appointments may be scheduled for 15 minute time periods beginning at 10:00 am on the third Tuesday of each month. Another event will be the 55 Alive Drivers' Training. which will be a two day course held on Thursday, May 6^th & Friday, May 7^th. A refresher course will be held on Friday, May 14th which only lasts 4 hours. A class is required every 3 years to receive a discount on your Automobile Insurance. A representative of AARP will be the instructor. The cost is $12.00 for the class for AARP members and $14.00 for non-members. Jennifer Saylor, BS, CHES and a representative of Windber Research Institute and the Pennsylvania Cancer Education Network is tentatively scheduled to speak at the Center for 3 days on different types of cancer. The schedule is as follows: Ovarian Cancer, Tuesday, April 20^th - 11 am - Prostrate Cancer and Tuesday, May 11^th - 11 am - Skin Cancer. She will review the symptoms and tests available to you for diagnosis and treatment options. Both men and women are encouraged to attend. The Center Knitting Club meets every Tuesday at 10:00 am to knit / crochet hats, mittens & scarves to be given to the needy children and adults. Items are then contributed to organizations such as Head Start, Family Services, Women’s Help Center, Victim Services and Cambria County Children’s Shelter Care. For more information on any of the above events, contact the Senior Center at 322-3327. Every Thursday at 1:00 pm, the Center is showing an afternoon movie donated by All the Right Movies. Members are welcome to take time to relax and enjoy a current movie in the Community Room on the Center's large screen TV. Just a reminder that Pennsylvania offers a Property Tax / Rent Rebate Program that benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older, windows and widowers age 50 and older and those with disabilities age 18 and older. The program income limit is $15,000 to $35,000 (which excludes half of Social Security income) for homeowners and raised the maximum rebate for both homeowners and renters from $500 to $650. The deadline to apply for a Rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2009 is June 30, 2010. If you received or qualified for a Property Tax / Rent Rebate within the past year, you will automatically receive an application in the mail sometime after the first of the year. The Center requested forms but won’t have them available until sometime in February. If you are in need of work, age 55 or over and qualify within the set income levels, you may be eligible for the Senior Community Employment Program Service. For more information on the program, contact the local National Council on Aging Senior Employment Program in Johnstown at 536-0691. The Silver Sneakers Program is still going strong with over 50 individuals taking advantage of the program. Anyone who is a Medicare-eligible member of Highmark or Blue Cross-Blue Shield can participate. In addition the Center has a room full of state-of-the-art exercise machines that are available for member use during regular hours which are Monday 9 to 11 am and 7 to 9 pm and on Tuesday thru Thursday from 9 am to 3 pm. For more information, contact the Senior Center at 322-3327. The Center has many special weekly events for the membership including lunch 3 times a week, parties, Bible study, bingo, knitting, line dancing, weekly Pinochle party, speakers and events on health issues concerning the aged population, monthly blood pressure screenings, weekly movies, ceramics, computer use with high-speed internet access and beginners computer classes. In addition there are monthly CamTram bus trips to different shopping areas in Westmoreland, Indiana, Blair, Somerset and Cambria Counties. Anyone interested in visiting or taking a quick tour of the Center is invited to stop in. Membership offered to those age 50 and older is constantly growing and is only $10.00 a year. The Center opened on May 10, 1998 and have issued over 750 membership cards. The Center relies on volunteers to operate and stay open. It's a great place to meet and socialize. If you are interested in being a member or volunteering, please contact the Center at 322-3327.

SOMERSET TRUST OPENS JACKSON TWP. BRANCH OFFICE
Jackson Township was only without a bank for two weeks as Somerset Trust officially opened up their 15th branch office location in the Vinco Plaza next to Ideal Market. After First National Bank of Pennsylvania announced their closing in January at the end of last year, many residents were urging the Township to pursue another bank to fill the void. The lack of a bank in one of the largest Townships in Cambria County made television and news headlines and attracted attention to the need to have a local bank in our community. Several banks seemed interested but Somerset Trust hit the ground running and within a short time had committed to open by February 1st.  Prior to the opening, the Supervisors gave bank officials a tour of the Township. Henry Cook, President was extremely impressed with the sense of community and how well the homes are maintained and said that this community is truly a hidden jewel. The bank had also mailed out a survey and they received over 500 responses back with nearly all of them being positive for the need for a new bank to come in. A luncheon given by Somerset Trust was also held at Pit Stop 271 for community and business leaders. Bank officials have made a commitment to Jackson Township and have already contributed to events such as the Fishing Derby and committed to be a major sponsor for the Jackson Heritage Festival. They also plan on hosting a free catered luncheon with entertainment on Friday, July 16^th at noon under the Festival tents for all of their Horizon 50 customers (age 50 and over). In addition they contributed to the ETJ Mitchell Park Field Lighting Project and the Jackson Township Senior Center as well as purchasing a new, large screen television for them. In addition, ATM fees for the first several months from the Plaza office are being contributed to the Jackson & East Taylor Fire  Companies. They hope to be an active citizen of Jackson Township and look forward to not only serving customers with the best banking services available but also serving the community as well.

SEWER AUTHORITY UPDATE
JETSA is happy to report that the Pump Station Rehabilitation work has now been completed on 10 pump stations. BCS Construction, who was awarded the Contract for the work, has asked for Substantial Completion and an inspection was completed as well. A few minor issues need addressed such as final grading and seeding around the stations. The Authority is hopeful that the new design of the Wet Wells will cut down on any odor problems. The City of Johnstown is mandated by the State to eliminate inflow and infiltration into its Dornick Point Treatment Plant, which affects JETSA and all the outlying municipalities that flow to Johnstown. Due to this, the Authority will be looking into purchasing Smoke Testing Equipment to test the main lines and the laterals for leaks and illegal connections into the sewer system. During heavy rains, many of the stations go into High Level Alarms and the stations need to be pumped down to keep up with the inflows. Once the rain slows down, so does the inflow into the pump stations. This makes the Authority believe that there are either illegal sump pumps discharging into the system, basements that take in water and are discharging into the system, broken viewports that are allowing water in, or the possibility that a manhole is under water during the heavy rains and allowing water into the system. The JETSA Maintenance Crew has been checking manholes and installing dog dishes where necessary. The smoke test will show illegal connections or cracks in the laterals and the main lines, which will then have to be corrected immediately. The Authority will also camera the lines and look for leaks. JETSA needs to do its part to show the City of Johnstown that we are doing everything humanly possible to eliminate any inflow and infiltration into the JETSA system. During the past two summers, college interns have been mapping the entire system and locating manholes and viewports by using GPS technology. The interns have documented many viewports that could not be found so that their coordinates could be added to the GIS Mapping System. The Authorities Rules and Regulations state that "All viewports must be made accessible for our inspection." Therefore, many residents will be receiving letters giving them thirty days to expose their viewport where they tied into the JETSA system so that a visual inspection can be completed in this manner. If you know that your viewport is covered over, please expose it now and then give the Authority a call at 322-3444. This would help to eliminate the additional cost of postage and time needed to send these letters out and possibly save you the additional cost of having your water terminated or fined for not exposing the viewport. If you cannot find your viewport and would like the Authority to use their camera and locator to find your viewport, there will be a charge for this service (amount to be determined later), plus you must sign a waiver that you will not hold the Authority liable for any damages to your property. If anyone is interested in signing up for Direct Debit (this is when JETSA automatically debits your Account for the Sewer Payment), please come to the office during regular business hours and fill out the necessary paperwork. Once again, we all need to do our part to make for a better community for ourselves, our children and for future generations to come.

SNOWMOBILE CLUB RAISES MONEY FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS
The Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Recreation and Rescue Club held two Poker Runs to help three local residents. The first one was held on Jan. 24^th to benefit Al Shoemaker who has been a lifelong member of the snowmobile club, he is battling cancer as well as other health ailments. This also benefitted Daron Murtin who is a former member of the club who suffered a stroke while trying to start his snowmobile. The club also sponsored a Poker Run on Feb. 14^th to benefit Betty Lybarger who was in a serious accident a few days before Christmas, she has two broken ankles, cracked ribs, etc. Betty has always been very involved with our community and we felt she could use the communities help for a change. The Snowmobile Club along with people from the Jackson Township Senior Center, Singer Hill Grace Brethren Church, Jackson Township Vol. Fire Company and Auxiliary, Neighbors Who Care as well as many individuals and businesses helped to raise money for Betty. Thanks to all who supported our Poker Runs and donated to these three township residents in their time of need. Our club also had a successful grass drag racing season in 2009. In addition, we held a Sno-Deo on Jan. 10^th at the clubhouse where snowmobilers participated in events such as the cloverleaf, 2 man pickup, ribbon race, and the baton relay. The club also took trips to Wellsboro - PA’s Grand Canyon, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to snowmobile as well as some local riding. We have several family oriented activities planned for the summer, our annual picnic at the Raystown Waterpark, an Altoona Curve game and swimming and a cookout at Dr. Don and Cathy Leckey’s house, etc. The club also sponsors a free Safety Course each year for students ages 10-15 who are required to complete this course if they plan on riding a snowmobile on property not owned by their parent or guardian, this is usually held at the end of November. The club is open to the public, it costs $10 for an individual and $15 for a family membership per year. You don’t have to be a snowmobiler to join either. We are happy to welcome new members into our club. For more information call (814) 749-9931 or go to www.chickareeridgerunners.com

PEDESTRIANS AND MOTORISTS URGED TO USE CAUTION
The Township has received numerous comments on PEDESTRIANS walking late at night and not being visible due to wearing dark colored clothing with no flashlights, etc. With warmer weather on the way and the end of the school year approaching, there will be many youth and children staying outside after dark. Chief Robert Fatula is advising that those out walking after dark along the streets wear light colored or reflective clothing or carry a flashlight with them. These common sense practices will be beneficial for the safety of pedestrians and motorists alike.

OTHER JACKSON TWP. NEWS
~Who’s New Around the Township
We would like to welcome those who have been recently elected, appointed or hired by Jackson Township. Brett Hoffman was appointed to the Jackson Township Recreation Commission to fill the remaining term of Eric Reitler who resigned due to personal reasons. Bob Wenklar was hired to work to work at the Senior Center not to exceed twenty hours per week. Previously Betty Lybarger was working at the Center but has not been able to do so due to ongoing health concerns, We would like to thank Eric and Betty for their commitment and service to Jackson Township. Ken Smith recently resigned as a Part-Time Police Officer for Jackson Township and accepted the position of Police Chief for East Taylor Township. Congratulations to Ken on his promotion.

~Hazardous Waste Recycling Event Set
The Cambria County Solid Waste Authority will once again sponsor a Household Hazardous Waste Event. In the past, hundreds have attended this one-day collection event, making it extremely popular and a very necessary collection to hold. This year the event will be held at the same location as year’s prior - in the parking lot of Concurrent Technologies Corporation’s ETF Building located just off Elton Road on Industrial Park Drive past the Richland Towne Center in Richland Township. The event will take place on Saturday, May 22^nd from 9 am to 1 pm. Cost for materials is $2 per gallon, and partial containers will be estimated and "combined" to give you a fair price for disposal. This year’s event is sponsored by the Cambria County Solid Waste Authority, the Southwest PA HHW Task Force, Concurrent Technologies Corporation and UPMC. Materials that are typically accepted are aerosol cans, Automotive Fluids (motor oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze, kerosene, brake fluid, gasoline), Batteries, Chemistry Sets, Cleaners (ammonia, drain openers, acid cleaners, oven cleaners), Mercury (thermometers, thermostats, elemental mercury), Adhesives, Solvents, Paint Products (latex, oil-based, alkyd based, arts / crafts chemicals, reset preservatives, creosote, sealers, paint thinners, furniture strippers), Pesticides / Garden Chemicals (pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, mothballs, fertilizer), Photo Chemicals, Pool Chemicals. For additional information or any questions you may have, call the Cambria County Solid Waste Authority at 472-2109 or visit www.cambriarecycles.org

~Supervisors Table Gas Well Ordinance
The Board of Supervisors tabled any action on Ordinance # 168 which would have amended the Zoning Ordinance and permit gas wells in all Zoning Districts of Jackson Township at their February 25th Meeting. The Ordinance would have had regulations for gas drillers to operate but the Supervisors felt it was best to table any action on the Ordinance based on mixed public reaction at a Public Hearing that was held before the Supervisors Meeting and the need to learn more about the gas well drilling industry overall.

~Local Mun. Services Tax Ordinance Approved
The Jackson Township Supervisors at their January 28th Meeting adopted Ordinance # 166 which replaced Ordinance # 61 (Occupational Privilege Tax) in it's entirety. The Ordinance also establishes the replacement of the old OPT with the new name, Local Municipal Services Tax. The amount of the tax was increased from $10 to $15 annually for those who work in Jackson Township and $5 of that amount goes to Central Cambria School District. Despite the increase, Jackson's rate is still less than many other neighboring communities whom have increased this tax to the maximum amount permitted by Pennsylvania law of $52.

~Crime and Vandalism
Jackson Township is a relatively safe place to live but no community is immune to crime. This is a reminder to keep a watch over your neighborhood and your neighbors in general. If you see anything suspicious, be sure to contact the Jackson Township Police Department at 749-0051. If no officer is at the Police Station you will be referred to the Cambria County 911 Non Emergency Line and they can have the officer on duty contact you.

www.jacksontwppa.com
Jackson Township has a valuable source of information to help keep you informed. If you haven’t checked out the Township Website, please feel free to visit www.jacksontwppa.com The website is constantly updated with new information. As always, you can read the monthly approved minutes of the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission and Recreation Meetings. New this year are minutes of the Jackson-East Taylor Sewer Authority. To see some of the pages that have been updated recently , click on "Whats New" on the home page. If you have any suggestions of what you would like to see on the Jackson Twp. Website, please call Dave Hirko at 749-0725 or email to office@jacksontwppa.com

PLANNING A BUILDING PROJECT
If you are planning on a building project be sure to visit or call either the Jackson Township Office at 749-0725 or Harry Baker, Zoning Officer at 322-1425. Your project could involve zoning, stormwater or planning. Also with the Pennsylvania State Building Code, inspections may be required as well. Be sure to allow plenty of time to get any necessary permits prior to building. By doing this, your project can be addressed in plenty of time before you actually begin construction. Just a reminder that all contractors performing home remodeling must now be registered with the State of Pennsylvania. This new law was enacted in 2010 for the protection of residents from irreputable contractors and home remodeling / repair scams. Also if you are planning to pave or alter your driveway, a driveway permit is required. Roadmasters Bruce Baker, John Wallet & Mark Westrick said that driveway permits are not to inconvenience residents but are necessary to make sure there is a swale or pipe to direct stormwater. They also make sure that driveways are not higher than the road so snow plows don’t catch the edge of the driveway. When a driveway enters onto a Township road, a safe sight distance is also very important. PennDOT requires permits for driveways entering onto State roads within the Township.

JOIN JACKSON ONLINE NEWS
Township residents who have access to the internet can now join our new email group to receive up-to-date Township news by email. To subscribe just go to the Jackson Township website at www.jacksontwppa.com and subscribe to the Jackson Township Online News by entering your email address in the space provided. You will then be sent a confirmation verifying that you wish to subscribe to the online news. You must return the confirmation via email to be added to the newsletter list. We also encourage you to invite others to join. If you encounter any problem signing up, just email us at office@jacksontwppa.com or call us at the Township office at 749-0725 and you can be added manually.

Return