Published: July 05, 2009 11:16 pm      

Fire destroys contents of Somerset garage

A fire of undetermined origin swept through a large garage in Somerset Township, destroying its pricey contents, pushing estimates of damage as high as three-quarters of a million dollars, a fire official said Sunday.

The fire in a 50-foot-by-60-foot garage on Philippi Road broke out at 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Listie fire Chief Scott Yachere said.

The structure, built in pole-barn fashion with metal sides and roof, is owned by James Onstead, whose home is located about 100 yards from the building.

In addition to the building, also destroyed, Yachere said, was a 2009, 40-foot motor home, several other vehicles, four-wheelers, tools and numerous other items.

The building was insured, and while the state police fire marshal will be in today or Tuesday to investigate, the cause is not suspicious, Yachere said.

Relay for Life slated for July 18-19

The 2009 Southern Cambria Relay for Life, a 24-hour event, will be held from 9 a.m. July 18 until 9 a.m. July 19 on the grounds surrounding The Galleria in Richland Township.

Teams will be walking outside the food court at the mall during the event.

The event raises money for the American Cancer Society.

Activities include the bands Southern Steel, The Embalmed, Fedup and Rennis playing from 3:30 to 8 p.m.

There also will be a fireworks display at 10 p.m.

In conjunction with the event, the Southern Cambria Relay for Life Charity Motorcycle Ride will begin at noon from the mall parking lot.

Signup starts at 10 a.m.

The fee to participate is $20 for rider only and $25 for two.

The ride is 100 miles with stops along the way. Riders will receive an ACS bandana while supplies last.

Miniature golf event will aid Learning Lamp

The third annual Family & Friends Mini-Golf Event will be held at 1 p.m. July 25 at The Ranger miniature golf course in Sidman.

Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. Proceeds from the event will go to outreach programs for The Learning Lamp.

For further information, call 262-0732 or e-mail cgrose@thelearninglamp.org.