JACKSON TOWNSHIP NEWS

Your Community News Source
Summer, 2009

WANT A BOOTH AT THE FESTIVAL?
For those of you who would wish to have a booth at the Heritage Festival this year, contact Dave Hirko at 749-0725 or Betty & Dave Perry at 322-0938.

FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
We would like to invite those in the community who are interested in helping out with the festival to volunteer. This would also be an excellent opportunity for organizations to volunteer such as church youth groups, community groups or organizations, school groups, etc. Volunteers can help in a number of ways including set up, trash & litter clean-up, helping with children’s games, distributing programs, delivering ice, parking, information booth and tearing down after the festival. We welcome all volunteers. If you are interested in helping, please contact Dave Hirko at 749-0725 (day) or 322-3433 (evening). Also if you still wish to set up a booth for the festival or as a business contribute towards the festival, feel free to call as well.

STATE REP. FRANK BURNS HELPS SECURE $500,000 GRANT FOR PROPOSED BUSINESS PARK
Thanks to the help of Pennsylvania State Rep. Frank Burns of the 72^nd District, Jackson Township was awarded a grant of $500,000 to be used towards the proposed Jackson Township Business Park. The Business Park initial phase will encompass approx. 125 acres and has the potential to create 1,000 jobs. The Project has been in the preliminary development stages for several years and the acquired grant will be used for design and engineering. An RFP (Request for Proposal) has been advertised for the solicitation of design and engineering services. The Business Park is proposed along the Chickaree Hill area of Route 22 which is the busiest road in Cambria County and a highly desirable place to attract business once infrastructure is developed. Besides job creation, some of the benefits of the park will be expanding the tax base for Jackson Township to help keep everyone’s taxes lower, home development and spin-off benefits for local businesses, services and suppliers. According to State Rep. Burns, this Project is a solid investment in our community and will be here to benefit future generations and provide real growth opportunity for the area. Richard Sutter & Associates, Planning Consultant for the Park estimated the first phase could cost between $4 and $6 million dollars to develop. The initial phase would consist of 7 parcels of 13 to 15 acres each. Smaller parcels could be developed based on each prospective tenants needs. Although this is a huge undertaking by the Jackson Township Supervisors, there is no better investment than providing family sustaining jobs that will benefit the children and grandchildren of Jackson Township for years to come.

SWIGLE MT. WATER PROJECT RECEIVES $390,000 GRANT
The Swigle Mountain Water Project became one step closer to reality when the news was received that a grant for $390,000 was received with the help of the Pennsylvania Bureau of Abandoned Mines. The actual funding is coming from the Federal Office of Surface Mining. The Project will include a 22,000 foot service line that will provide much needed water service to 42 homes. Currently, many households have to haul water or use water sparingly. The water line project will also include a pumping station and a new tank. The Jackson Township Water Authority will be the owner of the new line. Hegemann & Wray Engineering has been working on the new line for the Supervisors and permits have been applied for. The last estimated cost of the project is 1.7 million. According to Rich Wray, a $450,000. Grant should be on the way by mid-July from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority known as PennVEST and $850,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Once all funding is in place, the Project can be put out for bid and construction should soon follow.

MITCHELL PARK PHASE I EXPANSION UNDERWAY
The Mitchell Park Phase I expansion is now underway with new sewer and water lines being installed. The Jackson Township Water Authority has installed the new water line extensions while JETSA has put in new sewer lines. Quotes have been received for underground electrical work and bids were opened for the main part of the project which will include 2 new large pavilions that can accommodate large groups, public restrooms, excavating work and other amenities. Bids for the Mitchell expansion were opened at the Supervisors May 28^th meeting. The results of the bids were as follows:

4th ANNUAL FISHING DERBY DRAWS 211 CHILDREN
The 4th Annual Jackson Township Fishing Derby was held on Saturday, May 9th and was an overwhelming success according to Ed Westrick, President of the Jackson Township Community Rod & Gun Club who co-sponsored the event with the Jackson Township Recreation Commission. This year the weather cooperated and a record 211 children came out to participate which was a dramatic increase over last year’s 118 kids. The Derby now in it’s 4^th year is gaining a reputation of being a fun and well organized event and seems to grow each year. The Derby this year was once again held at Woodland Park Campground just off of Route 22 across the Jackson Township line.  Special trophies and accompanying prizes were given out to the following winners: Emily Green for the first fish caught and first child to catch their limit of 5 trout, Jordan Kish for catching the fish with the longest total length, John Jones for the biggest fish caught - 21 inches and Chloe Craft for the 2^nd biggest fish caught - 17 inches. A huge amount of prizes were awarded throughout the Fishing Derby which began at 9 and went until 3 pm. All prizes were worth at least $15 or greater. In addition. Every child attending went home with something and a great time was had by all! Businesses, organizations and individuals that contributed towards the Fishing Derby included:Adam’s Country Market, Al’s Pizza, Ameriserv, Aurandt Motors, Best Way Pizza, Betty Jean McKinstry, Big Stone Inn, C & R Motors, Commons Hardware, D. Fisher, Dan McQuay, Direct Value Outlet, Dolan’s Welding & Steel, Dorothy Ford, Dr. Donald Leckey OD, Ebensburg ACE Hardware, Ebensburg Fishing & Hunting, First Commonwealth Bank, First Summit Bank, Fords Corner Beverage, Gilkey Pools, G. P. Porta-Johns, Greater Jackson Township Sportsmans Club, Guitars N Stuff, Harv Rawlins, Jackson Township Supervisors, Jeff Gore Allstate Insurance, Janna’s Hair & Tanning, Larry & Sue Gresh, Matt Gresh, Mainline Bank, Martin Marine, Masters Ministries, Mercik’s Ideal Market, Nanty Glo Auto, Nanty Glo Foodland, Nick Gresh, Nickles Bakery, Niner Diner, Orange Blossom Restaurant, Park Hill Dairy Queen, Pat Shuman & Janet Reese, Pit Stop 271, Randy Wike Heating, Right Cut, Rose Bud Inn, Royal Auto Body & Refinishing, Somogyi’s Route 22 West Supply, Tire Outlet, Tom & Nancy Morrison, T & P Trains, Twin Rocks - Cardiff Sportsmans Club, Valewood Farms Dairy, Valley Beverage, Vantage Physical Therapy, Vinco Pizza, Virginia Sidor Beauty Salon, Wal-Mart, Waste Management, Wise Trailer Sales, Wonder Hostess Thrift Store and Woodland Park Campground. In addition to the all of the generous donations received, the Jackson Township Community Rod & Gun Club also raised money by selling 50-50's and chances at the Club. The Jackson Township Community Rod & Gun Club along with the Township would like to thank all of the businesses and individuals who donated to the Fishing Derby. Thanks also go out to the Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company for having their water rescue and ambulance on site in the event of an emergency. A special thank you goes out to Wally Vorhauer and the Vorhauer Family, owners of Woodland Park Campground for agreeing to host the event. In addition, the Jackson Township Supervisors would like to commend the Jackson Township Community Rod & Gun Club for a job well done!

CENTRAL CAMBRIA COALITION
The Central Cambria Coalition continues to work on various items of common interest. The Coalition comprised of Cambria Township, Ebensburg Borough and Jackson Township recently went together to purchase two new pieces of equipment. The first piece of equipment was a Crafco Crack Sealing Machine which was made possible with the help of a DCED Shared Municipal Services Matching Grant of $22,100. The machine was ordered from Air-Vac of Derry. The cost to each municipality was $9,014. each. The second piece of machinery ordered was a Concord Asphalt Hauler or "Hot Box" from Cambria Tractor for a total cost of $18,000 which means the cost per each municipality was $6,000. Both pieces of equipment were on the State Contract. By sharing equipment, costs can greatly be reduced for everyone. The Coalition Steering Committee is working on Phase II Planning after successfully adopting a Multi-Municipal Comprehensive Plan. Phase II Planning involves looking at each municipality’s zoning, subdivision, stormwater and other ordinances and looking for areas where the 3 municipalities can be coordinated or complimentary where it makes sense to do so. Phase II Planning is being made possible with the help of a $30,250 DCED Shared Municipal Services Matching Grant. A Route 22 Sewage Study completed earlier for the Coalition has been submitted in hopes that there might be Economic Stimulus Funds available to pursue the Project. Other items discussed by the Coalition in recent months include a Multi-Municipal Police Force and a Regional Skate Park.

YOUTH FAIR
Anti Drug & Awareness Program
For Elementary, Middle & High School Students
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Wednesday, July 29^th, 2009
Veterans Park, Vinco, PA
FREE ADMISSION
FREE REFRESHMENTS
FREE T-SHIRTS
FREE GAMES & PRIZES
FREE DRAWINGS FOR SWEATSHIRTS & BICYCLE HELMETS
Sponsored by: Cambria County Courts & Judge Gerald Long

YOUTH FAIR SCHEDULED FOR VETERANS PARKS
The Cambria County Courts and Judge Gerald Long will be hosting a Youth Fair at Veterans Park in Vinco on Wednesday, July 29th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The Veterans Park location was chosen being it will be more convenient for children to walk or ride a bike to the park as opposed to Mitchell Park. The purpose of the Fairs is to make young people aware of the dangers and harmful effects of using drugs & alcohol. Students from Elementary through High School are invited to attend and it promises to be a fun time for all! Admission is FREE and there will be FREE refreshments, T-Shirts, Games and lots of other Prizes including FREE drawings for sweatshirts and bicycle helmets. The program has been a success for the past 13 years with the help of local police, fire and ambulance departments. The Youth Fair held at Leidy Park on June 12th had a great turnout with over 50 children and 20 adults attending. Be sure to get your children who are students to this event as well as their friends. For additional information, please feel free to contact Carol Lacey, Youth Fair Coordinator at 472-1494 or call the Jackson Twp. Municipal Bldg. at 749-0725.

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

New York City Bus Trip
Now is the time to plan for a fun-filled weekend in the "Big Apple", NYC on September 26-27 (Saturday-Sunday). . Buses will leave Jackson Elementary at 5 am and head off for New York where you'll have lots of time on Saturday & Sunday for sightseeing, attending a play, shopping or many of the other countless fun things there are to do in one of the world's most famous cities. Shuttles will run from Manhattan back to your hotel in New Jersey several times Saturday evening. You'll be able to head back into Manhattan on Sunday and then depart NYC for home at 3 pm and arrive back in Mundys Corner approx. 9 pm. Many reservations have already been received so It's not too early to get your name on the sign-up list as this trip is very popular! For additional information, contact the Jackson Township Municipal Building at 749-0725.

FIRE COMPANY NEWS & EVENTS
The Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company wishes to thank everyone for their generous support during their Annual Fund Drive held in June. If you haven’t mailed in or given a donation yet, you can still do so by dropping it off at the Fire Hall or mailing it to 176 Adams Avenue, Mineral Point, PA 15942. Just a reminder that Ambulance Memberships will be mailed out in late July or early August and are due in September. This is unrelated to the Annual Fund Drive that took place in June that supports the Fire Company. Thanks go out to everyone who supported the Jackson Fireman’s Festival Weekend. One of the highlights was the 5th Annual Aaron Rusin Battle of the Barrel. Aaron was a firefighter who was killed in action while serving in Iraq. Funds raised from this charitable event go towards the Aaron Rusin Scholarship Fund. An Archery Raffle will be held on Saturday, September 19^th and a Fall Gun Raffle will be held on Sunday, October 18^th at the Fire Hall. Once again there will be a booth set up at the Cambria County Fair where volunteers will sell tickets for their Annual Turkey Raffle which will be held on Saturday, November 21^st. Many people look forward to purchasing the tickets with multiple prizes on it donated from area businesses and residents. If you are interested in donating a prize to have your business or name listed on the ticket, please contact the Fire Company at 322-3155. As always, Bingo is sponsored by the Auxiliary and is held every Sunday evening. For information on any of these events, call the Fire Hall at 322-3155.  An Open House will be held on Wednesday, October 7^th from 6 to 9 pm.at the Fire Hall to help celebrate National Fire Prevention Week. The Open House will include Fire Department tours, a chance to meet the Firemen and check out the fire trucks, tours of the Smoke Trailer, free fire truck rides, free 911 House ID Numbers, free refreshments and educational information on fire fighting. Chris Fedora, Emergency Management Coordinator for Jackson Township is asking that if there are any residents in the Township that have special needs in the event of an emergency, they should notify him by calling 749-7647 or 421-5159. Special needs could include being on an Oxygen Tank or needing special care to be removed from your home. If the power were to be out for 2 days or more, would you need assistance? This information will be used for Emergency Management purposes only.

WATER AUTHORITY UPDATE
With the summer season upon us, the Jackson Twp. Water Authority would like to stress the issue of water conservation. Here are some great water saving tips for outside the home:

SEWER AUTHORITY UPDATE
The Cherrywood / Brazil Lane Project is almost complete. D. J. Wisor and Sons, the contractor for Contract # 2 in the Brazil Lane / Mitchell Field area requested Substantial Completion and a walk thru was completed on June 11th. The walk-thru went very well and there were only a few punch list items that Wisor has to complete. JETSA has accepted the main sewer lines for Contract # 2 and letters were sent out to 71 residents stating that they will have sixty (60) days to tap-in to the system. Specifications for connecting to the System are available at JETSA's office during regular business hours. Guyer Brothers Inc., the contractor for Contract # 1 in the Adams Avenue / Cherrywood area has also asked for Substantial Completion and a walk-thru was scheduled for the end of June. If all goes well with the walk-thru, JETSA will be able to accept the main lines at the July 9th Board Meeting and then notify the additional 134 residents to tap-in to the Sanitary Sewer System. The Lyle Street and Adams Avenue Pump Stations were started up on June 15th. JETSA is very pleased with the work that both Guyer Brothers and D. J. Wisor have done. There were very few complaints and both contractors seemed to handle the resident's needs as they went through their properties. Both contractors were very thorough and addressed each complaint in a timely and respectful manner. This new project will bring on an additional 205 homes to the system, provide for future development and most importantly, clean up the watershed in our area. JETSA received a $632,253. grant along with a loan of $3,447,747. from Pennvest. Since the Cherrywood / Brazil Lane Project came under budget, Pennvest has allowed JETSA to use the remaining funds along with the Tap Fee money to rehab the ten existing Pump Stations. The Pump Station rehab work was put out for bids and on June 1st, the low bidder, BCS Construction of Altoona, was awarded the project. JETSA has also applied for an H2O grant from Pennvest to help with the cost of the Pump Stations Rehab Work and also an AARA Grant for station dialers, camera and smoke testing equipment. However, with so many applications and so little money to be awarded, it is hard to say what our chances are to get any grant money. JETSA is hopeful that there will be only a minimal rate increase, if any, to the monthly sewer bill. JETSA and the Jackson Township Water Authority Maintenance Crew installed new water and sewer lines at Mitchell Park to accommodate the concession stand and the new restrooms that will be constructed at the Park. Many thanks to both entities for their hard work and giving of their time to install the water and sewer lines for Jackson Township and all those who use and enjoy beautiful Mitchell Park. Again this year, JETSA has hired three Summer Interns to work with GIS mapping of the JETSA Sewer System, check for leaks in manholes and service lateral leaks. The Interns are currently working in the Vinco area and will start to work their way to the Wesley Chapel area. JETSA Rules & Regulations state that all viewports are to be made accessible for the Authority's use. If the JETSA crew cannot locate your clean-out or viewport, a letter will be sent to you and you will have 30 days to locate your viewport. If an owner would like for the JETSA crew to assist in locating their cleanout or viewport with the JETSA camera, a charge of $50.00 an hour will be added to your monthly sewer bill. Due to the Johnstown Redevelopment Authority / Johnstown Regional Sewage being mandated by PaDEP to clean up their system, it affects all of the outlying municipalities that convey wastewater to the Dornick Point Treatment Plan. Since JETSA collects and conveys the wastewater to the Dornick Point Treatment Plant, this mandate affects JETSA.

AARON RUSIN SCHOLARSHIP FUND IN 4th YEAR
It's hard to believe that the Aaron Rusin Scholarship Fund is now in it's 4th year. The Fund was established by the family of Private First Class, Aaron Rusin, a 2003 graduate of Central Cambria who was killed in the line of duty in Iraq on October 10, 2004. Central Cambria School District, Jackson Township and the entire area will be eternally grateful for Aaron's sacrifice in service of his Country while preserving our freedom. The Scholarship Fund is financed through an annual event called the Aaron Rusin Battle of the Barrel which is held at the Jackson Twp. Vol. Fire Company where Aaron served as an active member.

ORDINANCE PASSED TO ENFORCE PARKS & SR. CENTER RULES
The Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance # 160 which not only adopted rules for Jackson Township Parks and the Senior Center but allows for enforcement and fines for those who violate the adopted rules. Over the past years, there has been countless complaints from residents ranging from dogs using the parks for "doing their business" on a regular basis to profanity. Other complaints included, tobacco and alcohol use, damage of property, parking violations and on and on. The Ordinance finally gives "teeth" to enforce rules that were recommended by the Recreation Commission and Senior Center. If you or someone in your family is guilty of any of the below rules, please keep in mind that you could be fined for a violation. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated for the enjoyment of all at Township owned facilities. Below are the rules that were adopted along with the Ordinance:

JACKSON TWP. SENIOR CENTER RULES
1. No Smoking or Tobacco use is permitted on Senior Center premises.
2. No Alcohol use is permitted at the Center.
3. No Profanity will be tolerated.
4. Individuals are to treat each other in a civil and courteous manner
5. No one is to steal, damage or altar any property of the Center including any computer equipment, software programs or other electronic equipment.
6. No one is to harass another person, employee or volunteer.
7. No one is permitted to bring a weapon or possess a weapon in the Center.
8. No one is permitted to post material without the approval of a Center employee or Officer.
9. Individuals are not permitted to park their vehicles in unauthorized parking areas.
10. No one is permitted to carry, lead or bring an animal into the Center, or cause an animal to enter the Center, with the exception of properly identified service animals for persons with disabilities under the control of their owners.

JACKSON TWP. RECREATION & PARKS RULES
1. Park and facilities are only open from dawn to dusk.
2. No motor vehicles are permitted beyond parking areas.
3. Teams are responsible for keeping dugouts and field areas clean.
4. No bikes are permitted beyond parking areas.
5. No pets are permitted in the park.
6. No Alcohol use permitted in the park except for designated areas.
7. No littering is permitted.
8. Vandalism of any kind will not be tolerated.
9. No open fires or burning is permitted.
10. No overnight parking is permitted without permission.
11. No smoking permitted except in parking lot areas.
12. No Profanity will be tolerated.

JACKSON LIONS SEEK NEW MEMBERS
Members wanted!!! Have you ever wanted to make a difference in your Community or even the world? The Jackson Township Lions Club is looking for a few good men and women to join them at 7 PM on the second Monday of the month at the Jackson Township Senior Center. Lions Club International is the largest service club in the world. It's members have the reputation of being doers in their communities. Join the Jackson Lions at a meeting and find out what the Lions Club is all about. For more information, please call Dave Perry (President) or Betty Perry (Secretary) at 322-0938 or Betty Lou Shoup (Treasurer) at 322-1678.

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.

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!

BETTY LYBARGER HONORED FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE
Betty Lybarger was honored at a dinner held at the Senior Center on Friday, June 12th for receiving "The President's Volunteer Service Award". The award is given from the President's Council on Service & Civic Participation and recognizes an individual's dedication to volunteer service. Accompanying the award was a letter from the White House signed by President Barack Obama recognizing the importance of volunteer service to one's Community and Country. Betty Lybarger has served as a volunteer nearly all her life and has put in countless hours at the Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company as well as the Jackson Township Senior Center. The award is well deserved and Jackson Township as well as it's citizens can be grateful for her past and present volunteering and dedication. Congratulations Betty!

March, 2009
The figures for March were as follows: 911 Calls dispatched to Police: 342 Reportable Part I Crimes: 6 broken down as follows: Burglaries-3, Larceny-3. Reportable Part 44 Crimes: DUI (Driving While Under the Influence)-8, Disorderly Conduct-5, Stolen Property-5, Vandalism-3, Drugs-2, Family Offenses-1, Fraud-1 and all others-19. Calls Resulting in Cases: 27, Total Arrestees: 22, Total Suspects: 0, Total Victims: 13, DUI Arrests: 8, Traffic Citations: 27, Non-Traffic Citations: 1, Total Warnings: 0.

LOOSE OR STRAY DOG COMPLAINTS?
The Jackson Township Police Department is now handling stray or loose dog complaints. Anyone who sees a stray dog or has a dog that got loose should call the Jackson Township Police at 749-0051 or the Cambria County Non-Emergency Number at 472-2100 or 1-800-281-1680. The Police Department is getting dogs that slip their collar and if they don’t know who the dog belongs to, they must take them to the Cambria County Humane Society in Johnstown. The Police would prefer to return the dog to it’s rightful owner.

OTHER JACKSON TWP. NEWS
~Who’s New Around the Township
No one has been hired or appointed this quarter but Jackson Township did have one retirement. Gary "Ralph" Mayer, Assistant Shop Foreman retired in July of this year after working for the Township for 36 years. Best wishes go out to Gary "Ralph" on his retirement! Dan Schrader, Part-Time Police Officer, also resigned due to scheduling conflicts and personal reasons.

~Many Turn Out To Honor Vets
The weather cooperated with a nice turnout for the annual Memorial Day Ceremony held at Veterans Park in Vinco. Pennsylvania State Rep. Frank Burns of the 72^nd District was the speaker. Other participants in the ceremony included the Johnstown VFW Post 155 Honor Rifle Team, Jackson Township Troop 204 Boy Scouts & Cub Scouts, Pastor John Weaver of Summit Chapel United Methodist Church and Corey Shirk, a Junior at Central Cambria High School who provided special music selections. Special thanks go out to Frank Singel who spent much time organizing the event and also acted as Master of Ceremonies.

~Seal Coat Bid Awarded
New Enterprise Stone & Lime had the low bid submitted for 2009 Seal Coating or "tar & chip" Projects scheduled for Jackson Township. The bid was awarded at the Supervisors May 28th Meeting. New Enterprise’s bid came in at $ 60,972.45 beating out Grannas Brothers, HRI, Quaker Sales and Russell Standard. This year nine streets are scheduled for seal coating this year including Brazil Lane, Cherrywood Drive, Hunts Road, Kissell Lane, Lyle Street, Pinelock Street, Stagers Road, Wagner Road and Zurenda Lane.

~Miscellaneous Materials Bids
The Board of Supervisors awarded a contract for miscellaneous stone and antiskid for the coming year at their May 28th Meeting. New Enterprise Stone & Lime came in as the low bidder on each individual item beating out Grannas Brothers & HRI. For three types of miscellaneous paving materials, Quaker Sales was the low bidder surpassing HRI & New Enterprise Stone & Lime.

~Primary Election Results for Jackson Twp.
Despite a heated race for County Judge, turnout was low in the Primary Election in Jackson Township with only a 32% turnout compared to the 70% plus turnout in last year's General Election in November. Republican incumbent Dave Bracken defeated Frank "Buck" Alexander while Mark Westrick ran unopposed on the Democratic side in the race for Jackson Township Supervisor. For Tax Collector, Paulette Baker earned the most votes on both the Democratic & Republican side despite a write-in campaign by April Renzi. Running un-opposed were Marcia Shaheen for re-election to the Central Cambria School Board and Barry Rouzer for Constable. The position of Township Auditor received only write-in votes. The General Election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3rd.

~Eagle Scouts Honored at Banquet
It's not often that 7 (count em) young men from one municipality achieve the highest rank of Eagle Scout but that's exactly what happened this year in Jackson Township! The Eagle Banquet was held at the Jackson Township Fire Hall on Friday, April 17th. Scouts who achieved Eagle rank included Frank Brown, Aaron Dreikorn, Ben Grove, Cory Henry, Keith Henry, A. J. Pagano and Brad Vermileon. Those speaking at the banquet included Rodell Snyder, Boy Scout Troop 204 leader, State Rep. Frank Burns, State Senator John Wozniak, Attorney Tim Burns and Jackson Township Supervisors Bruce Baker and John Wallet. Township Manager, Dave Hirko acted as Master of Ceremonies for the special event. At the banquet the Eagle Scouts were presented many awards and recognitions for their achievement. On behalf of Jackson Township, the Supervisors presented each Scout with a Certificate of Achievement and Troop 204 was presented with a plaque declaring the following week after the banquet as Jackson Township Boy Scouts Troop 204 Week by way of proclamation. Six of the Eagle Scouts did projects for Jackson Township while Ben Vermileon did his for St. John Vianney Catholic Church. All of the Scouts are to be commended for their efforts. In addition to Rodell Snyder, Karen Whited and Ben Brown assist with Troop 204 and they can all be proud of their continued success!

~What Are Those Purple Boxes?
If you see a purple box hanging from a tree along various roads in the Township, it's not some kind of psychedelic bird house or box kite. The boxes which are actually "sticky traps" were put up by the Penn State Cooperative Extension to capture any Emerald Ash Borers which are basically small beetles that threaten the destruction of Ash trees in Pennsylvania. There are currently five infested counties including Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Lawrence and Mercer. Cambria County is part of a study area comprised of 15 additional counties to determine if the Emerald Ash Borer is spreading. The remaining counties in Pennsylvania will be covered by similar testing conducted by various agencies.

~ETJ Makes Mitchell Improvements
Thanks go out to East Taylor-Jackson Little League for making several improvements at Mitchell Park. Improvements include installing new lights on the Concession Stand and lights and electric in the existing Pavilion. In addition, ETJ has agreed to repair some of the ball field fencing that was damaged.

~Cable Franchise Agreement Approved
An agreement was approved at the March 26^th Board of Supervisors Meeting between Atlantic Broadband and Jackson Township to continue providing cable services to a large portion of Jackson Township. The Contract was negotiated by the Cambria-Somerset Council of Governments with nearly 20 municipalities represented.

~Planning Commission Looks at Improvements
The Jackson Township Planning Commission is discussing various items that should be in a Nuisance Ordinance which would address countless complaints to the Township Office. Some of the items that could be addressed in such an Ordinance are abandoned or dilapidated structures, unlicensed and unregistered vehicles, noise, obstruction of right-of-ways, unmaintained properties and accumulation of garbage and junk. Complaints are received on a daily basis about various properties in the Township and a Nuisance Ordinance could address these complaints with enforcement and fines for violators. Once the Planning Commission makes recommendations, the Supervisors will address the possibility of adopting such an Ordinance. Another current project of the Planning Commission involves looking at the Zoning Map and making recommendations for changes. Since the Cambria County has completed it’s GIS mapping system complete with individual parcel lines, it will be easier to make any changes where it makes sense to do so.

~Penelec Fights Outdoor Lighting Ruling
In 2007 Penelec had sent all customers who have private outdoor lighting notices that their lights would be removed by the year 2012. Private Outdoor Lights are any lights serviced by Penelec but not paid for by the municipality. There are 30,000 of these type of lights in Penelec's territory. This would have included lights at Jackson Elementary, Jackson Township Water Authority, Jackson Senior Center, various churches and businesses as well as lights along streets and roads in the Township. Formal complaints were filed to the Public Utility Commission by various residents, churches and organizations, but it was the phone testimony of two residents, Janet Fochtman and Betty Lou Shoup who won the case that overturned Penelec's ability to remove the lighting. Penelec has since filed an appeal and lost. Since then, Penelec has requested that an extension of time be granted to address the matter. An extension of time has been granted to Penelec until the entry of a Final Order disposing of Penelec's Petition for Reconsideration is made.

~New Street Signs Coming Soon
The new, larger lettering, street signs have arrived and will soon be installed throughout the Township. The signs are 9" and although easier to read, will require sturdier brackets to firmly secure them to the sign posts. The signs were ordered with the help of a DCED Grant for $7,300. from State Senator, John Wozniak. Chemung Supply had the lowest quoted price for the more than 300 signs. The new larger lettering signs will comply with new regulations mandating the larger, easy to read signs by the year 2012.

~Jackson Police Receive Grant
The Jackson Township Police Department received a $17,000. grant from Congressman Jack Murtha administered through Mountaintop Technologies of Johnstown. The grant monies was used to purchase new lights for police vehicles, bullet proof vests, new laptop computers, cameras, uniforms, intoximeter and other upgraded equipment..

~Wagner - Chickaree Water Update
The work on the Wagner Road & Chickaree Hill Water Lines are nearly complete but there is concern on the Chickaree Hill line brought up by the Jackson Twp. Water Authority Engineer, Gwin, Dobson & Foreman. The concern involves water pressure at the bottom of the Chickaree Hill Line being 230 pounds per inch which was entirely too much going into homes in that area and that this concern was made known in a letter sent to Larry Custer of the Cambria County Redevelopment Authority. Authority members felt that a Pressure Reducing Station would eliminate this problem. The Water Authority has decided that they would not take over the line until the water pressure problem is resolved to insure the safety of new customers tapping into the line.

~Agreement for Water Service Approved
An agreement to allow East Taylor Municipal Authority to provide water service to a building lot along Brazil Lane in Jackson Township was approved at the April 9^th Supervisors Meeting. The agreement included signatures from the East Taylor Municipal Authority, Jackson Twp. Water Authority and Jackson Twp. Supervisors.

~Barnes Saly Completes 2008 Twp. Audit
Barnes, Saly & Company presented the 2008 Jackson Township Audit to the Board of Supervisors at their April 30th meeting. Corina Long, CPA said it was a "clean" audit meaning there were no findings, problems or unusual transactions to report. Total finances were down from the previous year due to two factors, a decrease in Landfill Revenues and the investments made by the Supervisors in projects such as the Brazil-Cherrywood Sewer Line and the Jackson Township Business Park. This was the 7th consecutive year that Barnes Saly & Company have performed the Township Audit.

~Mitchell Parking Lot Expansion
Besides the Mitchell Park Phase I Expansion, park goers can expect to see some other improvements this year at Mitchell. New guiderail is being installed behind Mitchell Field # 1 as a safeguard to prevent any cars from accidentally drifting towards the field from the parking area. In addition, the parking lot is going to be expanded from the existing lot all the way over to the road going back to the Snowmobile Club. Another safety feature installed for Little League Season only are two speed bumps going back Shepard Street. Several people had expressed concern about vehicles traveling too fast back to the park and the possibility of a child getting injured as a result. This led to the purchase and installation of two speed bumps to slow traffic down coming into the park.

~NAPA Building Comes Down
The NAPA Building demolition was finally completed in June. The building once housed a restaurant before it became an auto parts store. A contract was drawn up with the Tri-Area Historical Society to do the demolition work with the help of individuals on a work program with the Cambria County Courts. Those individuals had an option to work off their fines rather than pay them or not pay them and go to jail. According to Jim Toth, of Tri-Area, all of the building was disassembled piece by piece. Many of the materials were used in the Liberty Museum Renovation Project in Nanty Glo which will eventually display the history and heritage of the entire area which includes Blacklick Township, Jackson Township, Nanty Glo Borough and Vintondale Borough. Other materials not used in the renovation were sold for cash which will also be used towards the Museum. It was truly a win-win situation for everyone involved.

~State Mandatory Contractor Registration
Pennsylvania recently passed a law that went into effect on July 1st requiring all contractors doing home remodeling type work to register with the State. The cost is $50 to register but will actually save contractors money from not having to register in individual communities that would charge up to $100 annually. The purpose of the new legislation coming from the Pennsylvania Attorney Generals Office was to crack down on fraud and unethical practices by some contractors. The elderly citizens were particularly vulnerable against those posing to be legitimate home remodelers and then charging exorbitant fees for poor, sub-standard or often no work done at all.

~Loraine Road Sewer Project
The Loraine Sewage Project Phase I is nearing completion with a line installed to provide service to 16 homes. Cost of the first phase done by Lumadue Excavating is approximately $145,000. In addition Jackson Township was awarded an additional $33,470. in Community Development Block Grant funds which has also been applied to the Loraine Project to run the line an additional 400 feet towards Fords Corner Road to service 4-5 more homes. The additional funds were part of the Economic Stimulus Plan. Phase II will take an additional 2 years of funds and will complete the extension of the Loraine sewer line all the way to Fords Corner Road providing service to an additional 20 homes. Construction on Phase II should take place in 2011. The total cost of the Loraine Road Sewer Project is $442,000.

~Jackson Supports E. Wheatfield Efforts
Jackson Township has joined East Wheatfield in supporting the installation of high-speed cable services in the area that borders the two municipalities. According to Roger Brown, resident of East Wheatfield, most residents in the area between Gas Center to Chickaree Mountain do not have this vital service that the rest of the world takes for granted. Benefits gained by residents would include ability to work from home, improved emergency services, home schooling, on-line bill paying, phone and television service competition to name a few. Mr. Brown has taken petitions to residents of East Wheatfield and Jackson Townships and gathered signatures from about 58 homeowners. Both municipalities have written letters of support and also have asked their congressmen to support Mr. Brown's efforts. In the past, cable companies have said that it would be too expensive to provide this service but funding for broadband services is one of the items mentioned in the recently passed Economic Stimulus Funds by Congress.

~Earned Income Tax Consolidation Underway
Act 32 passed by the Pennsylvania House & Senate will consolidate Earned Income Tax Collection on a County-wide basis rather than each municipality collecting their own. Each municipality will be appointing an individual by September 15tth to serve on a newly formed Tax Collection Committee for Cambria County. The Committee will hold their first meeting at the Cambria County Courthouse on October 15^th. Each County in the State of Pennsylvania will be going through the exact same process. The new system will be implemented over the next 4 years and in place by the year 2012. Currently each Municipality and each School District can designate who they wish to collect Earned Income Taxes. The new system will be much simpler for employers who currently have to collect and send EIT Taxes collected from employees to dozens of EIT Tax Collectors. For a large employer with hundreds or thousands of employees, the number of tax collectors could be 100 or more.

~US Census Hiring For Positions
The U.S. Census Bureau is now recruiting for the following positions: Office Clerk, Administrative Assistant, Recruiting Assistant, Crew Leader, Assistant Crew Leader and Enumerator. If you are interested in Full Time or Part Time Work: Call 1-866-861-2010 to be scheduled for a basic skills test. The US Census Bureau is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

~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.

~Free 911 House Numbers Available
The Jackson Township Supervisors in a cooperative effort of the Police Department & Fire Company want every home and business in the Township to have their 911 address number prominently displayed. In times of emergency, every minute is critical and it is important that emergency personnel be able to find you. If your house is not numbered, please stop at the Township Building at 513 Pike Road and we have free numbers we can give you. The Township also has mounting plates available if you need one. Numbers are available in black or white. If you are not able to stop by the Township Building between 8 AM & 4 PM, leave a phone message at 749-0725 with your name, address and telephone number where you can be reached in order that we can get the numbers to you.

~Recycling Bins a Hit!
Last year over 150 free heavy duty recycling bins were distributed to Jackson Township households as part of a student Senior Project at Central Cambria High School. The recycling bins came from the PaDEP as part of a public outreach program. This year we had put in a request with Central Cambria for 200 bins and once again, all were reserved (2 per household) and distributed. Being the recycling bins have proved so popular, we have talked to Central Cambria and they will be putting in another request for an additional 200 bins for next year. If you are interested in receiving 2 free bins, please contact the Township Office at 749-0725. The bins will not be available until August of 2009.

~Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company Earns Silver Status
Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company has been awarded Silver Status by the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy. This special status is given to those companies where 80% of the active Firemen are certified as Firefighter 1. Congratulations to the Fire Company on earning this achievement!

~Want to Schedule An Event At A Jackson Park?
If you are interested in reserving a pavilion for a family get-together, party or event, please contact the Jackson Township Municipal Building at 749-0725 to make a reservation. A pavilion is available at Mitchell, Leidy & Veterans Park. Other recreation facilities that can be reserved depending upon availability include baseball fields at Mitchell & Leidy and Volleyball Courts at Leidy.

~Police Urge Residents To Use Caution
The Jackson Township Police are urging residents to use caution when answering the door to anyone they don't know. In the last month there was a forced entry into a residents home on Rose Branch Street. The resident fought off the intruder but the outcome could have been different. Please lock your doors and be careful when answering the door to strangers.

~Tire Recycling Available
The Laurel Highlands Landfill offers recycling. Tires can also be put in a recycling bin for a minimal cost of $1.00 per normal-sized vehicle tire. This does not apply to any commercial establishments

~Need to Sign Up For New Garbage Service?
Jackson Township’s garbage contract provides for unlimited curbside garbage pick-up as well as any large items you have to dispose of with a few exceptions (i.e. - hazardous items, Freon, tires, etc.) If you are interested in signing up for garbage service you need to call 1-800-677-4884. The cost for 2009 is $39.74 per quarter.

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.

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