Published: May 24, 2009 11:19 pm      

In brief: Police investigating cemetery vandalism

CHERRY TREE — State police are investigating a case of cemetery vandalism near this Indiana County community.

Someone pushed 38 headstones off their bases at Uniontown Cemetery in Green Township, police said.

The incident happened sometime between Thursday and Saturday.

Judge to decide charges for Bedford DA

BEDFORD – A retired judge from Centre County will decide whether the courts should compel the state Attorney General’s Office to file sex assault charges against Bedford County District Attorney Bill Higgins.

Judge Charles C. Brown Jr., 71, was selected to hear the case by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts, the Bedford Gazette reported.

The administrative office was called in when Bedford County Judges Daniel Howsare and Thomas Ling backed away from the case because they frequently deal with Higgins.

Higgins, who is married, has admitted to having sex with a woman but says it was consensual.

The woman claims Higgins sexually assaulted her in his office after hours.

Conemaugh Twp. on the lookout for junk

TIRE HILL – Conemaugh Township supervisors said Wednesday they have declared “open season” on junk.

At their monthly meeting supervisors said the township codes and zoning inspector is looking for violators of abandoned vehicles and dilapidated properties.

Residents are asked to contact the township office to report violators. The number is 288-1400.

Supervisors also announced some local banks have finance packages available for township residents to assist them with the installation of newer laterals and tap-in fees for the new sewer project. For more information, contact the sewer department at 288-1400.

Supervisors thanked Waste Management and township employees for a successful “Spring Clean Up.” About 230 tons of trash was collected.

A three -man crew from a state prison also assisted in the clean up.

Sponsors, vendors sought for Somerset event

SOMERSET – Volunteers, sponsorships and vendors still are being sought for Somerset Inc.’s Rockin’ on the Ridge on

June 26 and 27. The event will be held at Cernic’s Suzuki near the turnpike entrance.

Event co-chairwoman Cheryl Clementi said, “This is a tremendous opportunity for Somerset area businesses as well as for individuals.”

For more information on how to get involved, contact Somerset Inc. 443-1748 or smrstinc@yahoo.com.