Johnstown Pennsylvania

ALSLife.Org Store Opened

Nate Seidel — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 18:24:53 +0000

ALSLife.org new online store is now open for business. The store offers t-shirts that state “I Joined The Fight Against ALS” available. Visit the store at http://alslife.org/store/ to get your shirt.

What is ALSLife.org

ALSLife.org is a community founded by Michael C. Muscatello to promote the awareness of Lou Gehrig’s Disease, to find a cure, and help those currently diagnosed with ALS.

Who is is Michael Muscatello?

Mike is an ALS patient who has been fighting the disease for 13 years. Mike is on a passionate mission to raise funds and awareness. To read Mike’s full story visit http://alslife.org/about/mikes-story/

If you would like to find out more information about Mike and ALSLife.org visit Mike’s site at http://alslife.org/

Fundraiser For Ziggy

Nate Seidel — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:23:33 +0000

Last month, Dave “Ziggy” Zeigler was diagnosed with brain cancer. The local hockey community took it on their own, with the gracious help of Planet Ice, to have a special fundraiser on June 5th to benefit Dave Zeigler and family.

This special night will be headlined by a Johnstown Chiefs’ alumni hockey game with many familiar names from the 22 year history of the Johnstown Chiefs. In addition, a silent auction will be held featuring autographed memorabilia from the Pittsburgh Penguins and Johnstown Chiefs among others. Highlighted items include an autographed Sidney Crosby hockey stick, and the chance to join Dana Heinze and work with the equipment staff during a practice at the new Consol Energy Center arena next season. The night will also include food, drinks and entertainment. A skate with the players session will be held following the hockey game.

Tickets for the event will cost $50 for adults and $20 for children. Doors will open at 6:00pm with the hockey game facing off at 7:30 and the skating session to follow. Tickets can be purchased at Planet Ice, Scott’s By Dam, and Ziggy’s Sports or for more information call 814-262-7465 x203. For questions, information and request please email info@ziggysfundraiser.org

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-04-19

Administrator — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:00:00 +0000

All power is out in Stoneycreek twp and geistown from storm. Trees down everywhere in Johnstown #

All power is out in Stoneycree…

Administrator — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:07:58 +0000

All power is out in Stoneycreek twp and geistown from storm. Trees down everywhere in Johnstown Related posts:Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-04-19 View Webcams around the area h… Snow storm on Friday! Make sur… Related posts:

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-04-05

Administrator — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 10:00:00 +0000

New GetGo gas station in Westmont! How about the new Sheetz plan anyone hear anything? #

Twitter Updates: 2010-04-01

Administrator — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 22:00:00 +0000

New GetGo gas station in Westmont! How about the new Sheetz plan anyone hear anything? #

New GetGo gas station in Westm…

Administrator — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 21:53:31 +0000

New GetGo gas station in Westmont! How about the new Sheetz plan anyone hear anything?

American Dream Real Estate Launches new site!

Nick Pappas — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 21:44:42 +0000

American Dream Real Estate Appraisal & Management, Inc. in Johnstown, PA launched a new website JohnstownRealty.com today.

On the site you can access real estate listings, meet a Realtor®, view rental properties, read real estate articles, and more. Additionally, some new features include: RSS feeds directly to your e-mail in-box, a mortgage/loan calculator, and the ability to ask a Realtor® your questions 24/7.

Valerie Hudson, co-owner of ADRE says, “We hope you find our site informative and hope it becomes a tool for all of your Real Estate needs.”

American Dream encourages you to keep checking the site as it is their goal is to update it daily. You can also interact with American Dream on the popular social networking websites: Twitter & Facebook.

Visit their site today @

Planet Ice obtained by CNB Bank Reopens

Nick Pappas — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 20:32:38 +0000

JOHNSTOWN, PA – This morning, CNB Bank, a subsidiary of CNB Financial Corporation, obtained ownership of the Planet Ice building located at 195 Jari Drive in Richland Township.
Two local businessmen, Louis Mihalko and Jim Vasilko have negotiated a lease for the short term operations of the building. The lease will remain until financing is in place to gain ownership of the building.

Jim Vasilko says, “We are happy to announce that we will continue the operation of the ice rink. The rink will open today for skating.” Louis Mihalko continues, “We are working with Rink Management Services to assist in the daily operations of the rink. Without the cooperation and trust of CNB Bank, the future of the rink was closure. We are excited to open it back to the community.” “Rink Management Services is excited about being part of the team that will make the rink a tremendous ice skating facility for the people of the region,” adds Tom Hillgrove, President of Rink Management Services.

OPEN TODAY – ICE SKATING IS NOW AVAILABLE AT 195 JARI DRIVE IN JOHNSTOWN.

Hours of operations: Friday: 11 am – 11pm; Saturday: 8:15am – 10:30pm and Sunday: 12:30pm – 5:00pm.
For additional information about programs, leagues or private ice rental, contact the rink at 814-262-7465.

Rink Management Services is the largest operator of ice skating facilities in the United States. They currently manage 28 rinks from coast to coast. The company stresses providing a safe and fun place to learn and develop skills for skating and to participate in ice sports.

Louis Mihalko and Jim Vasilko are local businessmen that own and operate commercial and industrial real estate throughout the Greater Johnstown Area. They also operate construction companies, Mihalko’s General Contracting and Johnstown Construction Services. For additional information or questions, please contact us at 814-535-3015

Planet Ice to close doors

Administrator — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:35:01 +0000

As the weather begins to warm up this week, so will a popular local ice rink. Planet Ice, located on Jari drive in Richland Township – Johnstown – PA, has seen its share of ups and downs over the last few years, but as of today, (although not confirmed) it’s doors seem to be closed indefinitely.

It is rumored that a bank has taken over the property and may choose to re-open within a few days but no further indications have been made as to the fate of the local attraction. For 10+ years, many local patrons have attended public skating, figure skating lessons, hockey games and held birthday parties there. If it were to close It would be a major loss to our community.

Planet Ice housed groups such as:

Adult League Hockey
The Johnstown Figure Skating Club
Special Olympics
Johnstown Sitting Bulls Sled Hockey Team
Local College and High School Teams

We have found a Facebook group that is asking for any type of help from local politicians as well as any area business leaders to keep the facility open.

A quick visit to their website (http://planeticeusa.com) now yields a blank page and a call in to the facility was not answered nor returned.

You can also read a few related articles below:

Feel free to leave your feedback and additional comments below as this story grows and we will do our best to keep you updated. Lets all hope that this place can re-open soon!

Ben Roethlisberger – Pittsburgh Steelers QB Accused of Assault

Nick Pappas — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 02:35:42 +0000

It appears that Ben Roethlisberger “Big Ben”, quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is under investigation again over an alleged sexual assault that apparently took place at a nightclub in Milledgeville, Georgia. Roethlisberger, who has not been charged with any crimes, has hired high profile attorneys for the case and claims complete innocence. The 20-year-old girl, whose name has not been released, appears to have also obtained legal counsel.

Below is the video from a press conference held earlier today. What are you thoughts?

Chiefs bitten by Jackals

Johnstown Chiefs — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 13:17:00 +0000

ELMIRA, Ny. – The Johnstown Chiefs couldn’t find a way to slow down the ECHL’s best offensive club and fell 7-2 to the Elmira Jackals at First Arena on Sunday evening.

The Chiefs knew they would receive a stiff test from the league’s leading offense, but they could not slow down the high-octane Jackals in the first period. Yannick Tifu potted a rebound goal just 2:37 into the game and the ECHL’s leading scorer Tyler Donati took over. Donati lazered home a wrist shot at 4:09 making the score 2-0 and then followed it up with a power play goal at 15:11. The Chiefs did register nine shots, to Elmira’s 10, in the opening frame but the bounces didn’t go their way. Shortly after Donati’s first goal, Mike Couch rung the pipe with a hard wrist shot, and later on in the period Connor Shields was denied by Julien Ellis on a quick strike chance while the Chiefs were shorthanded.

Elmira continued its assault in the second period and tacked on a pair of goals to extend the lead. Tyler Donati showcased his playmaking ability, instead of his scoring, as he fed a backhand pass through his legs to his twin brother Justin for a shot that beat John Murray to the blocker side. The goal was also set up by Olivier Proulx. The Chiefs tested Ellis seven times in the middle frame, but couldn’t feed a puck across the goal line. At 13:51, Chris Korchinski scored a power play goal thanks to a fortunate rebound off of a blocked shot by Trevor Hendrikx.

Sean Berkstresser provided a quick spark for the Chiefs by rifling home a wrist shot 30 seconds into the frame. Elmria’s Brennan Truner had his outlet pass intercepted by Berkstresser in between the circles and the second-year Chief beat Ellis high to the blocker side. Jim McKenzie also scored for the Chiefs in the third period at the 16:21 mark. Berkstresser’s goal was his 14th, while McKenzie’s was his 12th. Elmira kept the Chiefs at arm’s length, though, with goals by Tyler Donati and Maxime Gratchev. Donati finished the game with four points on three goals and an assist.

Murray took the loss in net for the Chiefs with 19 saves while the power play went 0-for-3 and the penalty kill was 3-for-5.

Mark your calendars! The Chiefs return to Johnstown on Friday, February 26 against the Toledo Walleye at 7:05. The Chiefs encourage their fans to visit any of the five Em’s Subs locations throughout the area to take advantage of the Em’s Friday Meal Deal. Ten dollars will get you a voucher for that night’s game, an Em’s sub, a drink, and a bag of chips. Good seats still remain and for individual tickets, go to ticketmaster.com or call 1-800-745-3000.

February 21, 2010
Contact Ray Schmitt for more information
814-539-1799 x 226
ray@johnstownchiefs.com

Chiefs Partner up with JAHA for Special Day

Johnstown Chiefs — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:49:47 +0000

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – The Johnstown Chiefs announced today that they have partnered with the Johnstown Area Heritage Association (JAHA) and the Johnstown Children’s Museum for a special day on Saturday, February 27.

Saturday, February 27 — a special event — Johnstown Chiefs Day at the Johnstown Children’s Museum! Don’t miss this hockey-themed special event!

• The staff will be dressed in Chiefs apparel, and there will be balloons and hockey decorations throughout the museum

• Ice Hockey Basics workshop — see above for details

• A hockey-themed craft time from 3:00 – 4:30 pm — kids can make signs to hold up at the Chiefs game and more!

• As a part of Heritage Day with the Johnstown Chiefs, anyone at the museum on Feb. 27 can buy tickets to that evening’s Chiefs hockey game for just $8 — so plan to spend the day at the museum, and the evening at the game! The discounted tickets will be sold at the museum’s gift shop.

Sat., Feb. 27 — Heritage Day with the Johnstown Chiefs — Through this special offer, JAHA members and supporters can enjoy a Johnstown Chiefs game for just $8 — instead of the regular $14.50 single ticket price! Discounted tickets to the Chiefs’ game against the Cincinnati Cyclones (on Sat., Feb. 27 at 7:00 pm) will be offered for sale to the following groups:

• JAHA members may buy the discounted Chiefs tickets at the Johnstown Flood Museum or Heritage Discovery Center anytime during regular business hours, starting on Feb. 1

• Anyone who attends our Last Friday at the Ethnic Social Club events in January (Jan. 29), or February (Feb. 26– the day before the game!)

• Anyone who purchases an admission ticket at the Johnstown Flood Museum or Heritage Discovery Center/Johnstown Children’s Museum on February 27 — so you can go to the museum that day, and the game in the evening.

JAHA will have a booth in the concourse during the game itself — stop by and say hello!

Mark your calendars! The Chiefs return to Johnstown Friday, February 19 and 20 against the Trenton Devils at 7:05. The Chiefs are offering a “Devil of a Mini Plan” for the pair of games against Trenton. $20 will get you tickets to each game and the same great seat for both nights. To order yours call the Chiefs front office at 814-539-1799 or by visiting the office from 9-5 Monday through Friday. Good seats still remain for individual tickets, go to ticketmaster.com or call 1-800-745-3000.

February 17, 2010
Contact Ray Schmitt for more information
814-539-1799 x 226
ray@johnstownchiefs.com

Chiefs Pow-Wow Episode – February 16th

Johnstown Chiefs — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:32:22 +0000

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Check out the Fan Zone section of www.johnstownchiefs.com to listen to this week’s edition of “The Pow Wow Coach’s Show.”

“The Voice of the Chiefs,” Ray Schmitt is joined this week by a pair of great guests – Chiefs’ owner and head coach Neil Smith and goalie Kris Mayotte. Tune in to listen to the three talk about everything from the close-knit pro hockey community, the finer points of playing goal, and how an NHL GM deals with the insanity of the trade deadline. They also discuss how the Chiefs are preparing for this weekend’s games against Trenton and Elmira.

Every episode of “The Pow Wow” is recorded live at the Crow’s Nest located at 510 Tire Hill Rd. in Johnstown. While you’re at the Crow’s Nest be sure to enjoy their Tuesday special of their huge homemade stromboli for just $5. For those who can’t make it to the Crow’s Nest in person, recorded versions of “The Pow Wow” will be posted in the Fan Zone section at www.johnstownchiefs.com shortly after the show is over.

February 17, 2010
Contact Ray Schmitt for more information
814-539-1799 x 226
ray@johnstownchiefs.com

Devils edge Chiefs

Johnstown Chiefs — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:03:44 +0000

Johnstown, PA – The Johnstown Chiefs fell in a tight contest to the Trenton Devils by a score of 3-1 on Friday night at the UPMC Health Plan Ice Rink at the Cambria County War Memorial.

Johnstown came charging out of the gate and outshot the Devils 6-1 in the first five minutes of the period, but Trenton withstood the charge and went up 1-0 late in the period. Chris Poli scored his fourth goal of the season from Chris Murray at 17:58. Trenton ended up out-shooting the Chiefs 13-9 for the period and went into the second period with the lead.

Mid way through the second period the Devils had a great scoring opportunity on a shot fired by Dan Eves but John Murray made a fantastic split save to keep the Chiefs within one. Soon after the Chiefs were able to rally and tie the game up. Bryan Marshall was able to dump it to Matthew Kang in the left-wing corner who fed Jeff Martens right out in front of the goal. Martens blasted the puck in past Trenton goalie Dave Caruso for his second of the season at 15:06.

The Devils took advantage of a 5-on-3 power play to take the lead half way through the third. Matt Vokes registered his seventh of the season at 10:10 with Poli and Dan Charleston gaining the assists. The Chiefs turned up the momentum late in the game and pulled Murray for the extra attacker. Dan Eves silenced the Chiefs momentum by picking off a Trevor Hendrikx pass and scoring the unassisted empty netter at 19:10.

Murray made 32 saves in the loss. The Chiefs went 0-for-4 on the power play and 5-for-6 on the penalty kill.

Mark your calendars! The Chiefs return to Johnstown Saturday, February 20 against the Trenton Devils at 7:05. The Chiefs will be hosting Ladies’ Night where women can buy $8 tickets at walk up. The Chiefs will also be giving away Lady Bic razors to all women in attendance. Good seats still remain and for individual tickets, go to ticketmaster.com or call 1-745-3000.

February 19, 2010
For more information contact Ray Schmitt
814-539-1799 x 226
ray@johnstownchiefs.com

Congressman Murtha’s Final Farewell

Administrator — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 17:21:55 +0000

Johnstown has witnessed the funeral services for one of it’s most important political figures. MyJohnstownPA.com was on the scene at Westmont Presbyterian Church to bring you photos from outside the Funeral including the US Marine Corps Salute, and the carrying of Mr. Murtha’s Casket into the Church by the various Military Personnel. Among the many who came to pay their respects were: 42nd President of the United States – Bill Clinton, Speaker of the House – Nancy Pelosi, White House Chief of Staff – Rahm Emanuel, CIA Director – Leon Panetta, Michael Mullen – Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, Robert Gates – Secretary of Defense, Ray LaHood – Secretary of Transportation, General James Jones – National Security Adviser, and an estimated 50 members of congress.

The weather was not helping matters as family, friends, and colleagues of Mr. Murtha began to make their way to Westmont Presbyterian Church on Luzerne Street this morning. CamTran did provide Shuttle Services from Hiram G. Andrews Center as a large crowd was expected. Also, roadblocks were in place in areas close to the Church to ensure proper space for the funeral services. The United States Marine Corps saluted Mr. Murtha as he was removed from the hearse on a cold and snowy Johnstown Morning. Once Mr. Murtha’s Casket entered the Church the doors closed and services began.

Murtha was the driving force of the 12th district’s economy as far as defense contracts and many other projects, and recently became the longest serving Pennsylvania Congressman in history.

Please feel free to browse our Photo Gallery of Mr. Murtha’s Funeral.

Five former Chiefs going for Gold

Johnstown Chiefs — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:09:59 +0000

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – The Johnstown Chiefs are proud to recognize today five former members of the club who will be going for gold as the Winter Olympics hockey tournament opens competition this afternoon.

The five men who once donned the black and gold are: Scott Gordon, John Tripp, Jakub Ficenec, Dmitri Patzold, and Vladimir Denisov.

Gordon, who is the head coach of the NHL’s New York Islanders, was the Chiefs’ goaltender for their inaugural season, 1988-89, in the ECHL. He went 18-9-3 in his third professional season and helped the Chiefs reach game seven of the Riley Cup Final against Winston-Salem. After his time in Johnstown Gordon went on to tend goal for the United States at the 1992 Winter Olympics and eventually became the first ECHL player to graduate to the NHL. He debuted with the Quebec Nordiques in the 1989-90 season and went on to play 23 games at hockey’s highest level. Gordon, who is in his second year at the Islanders’ helm, previously coached at the IHL, ECHL, and AHL levels. Prior to this season he has compiled an overall record of 285-200-43. He, and John Tortorella, will assist Team U.S.A. head coach Ron Wilson.

Tripp, Ficenec, and Patzold will all represent team Germany at the games. Tripp, a former Colorado Avalanche (#77 overall in 1995) and Calgary Flames (#42 overall in 1997) draft pick played parts of the 1998-99 and 1999-00 season with Johnstown. A right wing, he garnered 26 points (15G, 11A) and 76 penalty minutes in 45 games with the club. After a few more seasons in the minors, Tripp reached the NHL with the New York Rangers in 2002-03 for nine games, and then returned the following season with Los Angeles. His NHL career spanned 43 games resulting in nine points (2G, 7A) and 35 penalty minutes.

Ficenec, a defenseman, played three seasons of pro hockey in North America before returning to play in Germany’s DEL for the 2001-02 season. In the 1998-99 campaign, Ficenec was the team’s leading scorer from the blueline with 41 points (18G, 23A) over 59 games. His sound play in Johnstown earned him a promotion to the Portland Pirates of the AHL for the next two seasons, but he returned to Europe following his time there.

Patzold, a goaltender, was a part of the famous Chiefs team from the 2003-04 season that set the record for wins (45) and points (97) in a season. In his first ECHL season, Patzold posted a regular season record of 7-0-0 with a 2.71 goals-against average and a .908 save percentage. A fourth round draft pick (#107 overall) of San Jose in 2001, Patzold reached the NHL with the Sharks in 2007-08 and played in three games. Patzold and Ficenec are currently teammates with Ingolstadt ERC of Germany’s DEL.

Denisov will skate for his native Belarus at this year’s Olympics. He was signed by the AHL’s Lake Erie Monsters for the 2007-08 season and spent five games with the Chiefs on their southern road trip in December of 2007. In that time he amassed two assists and 26 penalty minutes. A defenseman, Denisov split his two-year AHL career between Lake Erie and the Hartford Wolf Pack amassing 28 points (7G, 21A) and 228 penalty minutes over 128 games.

February 16, 2010
Contact Ray Schmitt for more information
814-539-1799 x 226
ray@johnstownchiefs.com

Chiefs Relocation marks the End of an Era

Josh Cragle — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 22:15:06 +0000

Year after year the talk has been there about the future of the Johnstown Chiefs. Will the Chiefs stay or go? Will we have hockey in Johnstown? Can the Chiefs survive? For 22 seasons the answers to those questions have been yes. The Chiefs were hanging by one last thread. On Sunday night, that lone remaining thread that was keeping the Chiefs alive was cut. Chiefs owner/interim coach Neil Smith announced Sunday night that the Chiefs will be relocating to Greenville, South Carolina after the season. “It was a combination of things,” Smith said after the Chiefs 5-1 loss to Cincinnati on Sunday at the War Memorial. “Our lease was up, and this is not against SMG, but the cost of the lease is going up and not going down. Really, we were left with no choice.” Smith sadly added.

This marks a sad, sad day in Johnstown hockey history. The Chiefs have been plagued by heartbreak and bad luck throughout their 22 seasons in Johnstown. There have been some unbelievably wonderful moments as well. The Chiefs won a franchise record 45 games in 03-04. Goalie Ryan Nie set a team record with 29 wins in the 07-08 season. Brent Bilodeau and Jeff Sullivan were fixtures on the Chiefs blue line for 6 years. Dmitri Tarabrin is the Chiefs all time games played leader. Randy Rowe and Jason Spence captured the hearts of Johnstown fans for nearly a decade. Rowe was in Johnstown for 4 years. Rowe departed for Charlotte in the off season. Spence debuted in Johnstown in the 2000-2001 season. He has been a Johnstowner ever since and currently serves as Chiefs assistant coach. Ian Herbers guided the Chiefs to 73 wins over two seasons in his tenure as the Chiefs bench boss. He led the Chiefs to the playoffs in 07-08 and his Chiefs beat the Dayton Bombers in a best of 3 series 2-0. Herbers accepted the assistant coaching job in Milwaukee in the AHL which was a job he couldn’t turn down. It gave Herbers a chance to be closer to his family and to advance his coaching career.

This current group of Chiefs have unfortunately underachieved this season. The early failures brought on the changes we see today and the team has been much improved since the changes took place. The team was so poorly run at the beginning of the season after Herbers’ departure, it doomed the Chiefs from the get go and Neil Smith had to intervene once again and try to save the Chiefs again. The loss of both NHL/AHL affiliates through Colorado/Lake Erie and Columbus/Syracuse didn’t help matters. There were fewer contracted players and it made it hard to put a good product on the ice every night.

The Johnstown Chiefs have created many lasting memories in 22 seasons. Now as the team departs for Greenville at season’s end, hopefully they will create some more good lasting memories that will stand the test of time. The only regret: The Chiefs were never able to bring Johnstown an ECHL Championship.

To the Chiefs I say goodbye and good luck in Greenville. To the city of Johnstown I ask for your help to get hockey back and to get it to the War Memorial so we don’t witness the demise of the War Memorial as well.

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-02-15

Administrator — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +0000

John Murtha on facebook please join http://bit.ly/95yvzw @WJACNews @WJAC_Weather #
Join the "RIP John Murtha" page on facebook. http://twitpic.com/124lt3 #
RIP #JohnMurtha – Pay Respects on Facebook "RIP John Murtha" @WJACNEWS #
#JohnMurtha You will be missed. FACEBOOK GROUP "RIP John Murtha" #
#John Murtha passes away http://myjohnstownpa.com/featured/john-murtha-passes-away/ #
Broadcasting live now! See me at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/johnstown-pa #
Oh its a Great Day AT PDG! Chat if you have any PC Repair Questions and we will help (Broadcasting live at http://ustre.am/ccj0) #
Jamming at PDG at 7:45 (Broadcasting live at http://ustre.am/ccj0) #
Good Morning at the PDG office! (Broadcasting live at http://ustre.am/ccj0) #

Mayotte Backstops Victory in Wheeling!

Josh Cragle — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 05:31:17 +0000

In what would be only his second start in a month, Chiefs goaltender Kris Mayotte was looking to get back to form and seize his starting job once again. After the performance he put on the ice Tuesday morning in Wheeling, Mayotte may have done just that. Mayotte stopped 37 shots including 3 big saves in the shootout, to lead the Chiefs past the Nailers 4-3 in Wheeling for their second straight win and the third time in the last four games.

The Chiefs came out clicking early and got the first goal 1:35 into the game when newcomer Matt Kang, acquired on Monday from the Las Vegas Wranglers, hit Ralph with a great pass and Ralph snuck the puck between the legs of Nailers goalie Adam Berkhoel for a 1-0 Chiefs lead. Chanse Fitzpatrick picked up the other assist. Mayotte set the tone with save after save until the Chiefs would take a 2-0 lead on a goal by Connor Shields. Shields cashed in his 19th of the season with Kang and Fitzpatrick picking up the assists. The Chiefs carried a 2-0 lead into the second period.

In the second period, the Chiefs penalties piled up and the Nailers cashed in when Thomas Beauregard would score his 31st goal of the season. Mayotte made the first save and attempted to cover the puck, but Beauregard poked the puck over the goal line to cut the Chiefs lead to 2-1. The Nailers were carrying the play until the Chiefs eventually struck again. Shields took a centering feed from Fitzpatrick and slid the puck past Berkhoel for his second of the game and 20th goal of the season to give the Chiefs a 3-1 lead after two periods.

In the third period the Nailers took over and had it not been for Mayotte, the Nailers could have won the game in the third. The Nailers cut the Chiefs lead to 3-2 on Cleve Kinley’s goal past Mayotte in the high slot. Joey Haddad tied the game at 3 with a shot past the right skate of Mayotte. The Nailers controlled the third period but Mayotte stood on his head and got the Chiefs a well deserved point.

In overtime both teams had chances but neither team could cash in after the 5 minute 4-4 extra session. This led to a shootout for the second straight game for the Chiefs. The Nailers scored on their first two shots. The Chiefs got goals from Connor Shields and Jim McKenzie in the shootout to tie it at 2. Mayotte stoned Jordan Fox on Wheeling’s 5th shot and set the stage for “Mr. Clutch” Chanse Fitzpatrick! Fitzpatrick tied the shootout on Saturday for the Chiefs that led to Greg Gallagher’s game winner. On Tuesday, Fitzpatrick sealed it with the winner on the 5th and final shooter for the Chiefs and sent the Chiefs to their second straight win and their 4th road win in the last six games. The Chiefs have played great hockey the last few games and if that continues, the end of this season will be a memorable one based on where the Chiefs have been all season. The Chiefs head to Kalamazoo on Friday for a game with the K-Wings. The Chiefs travel to Cincinnati on Saturday for a Saturday night game with the Cyclones. Johnstown returns home on Sunday for a rare Sunday night game against the Cyclones, face off is set for 7:05 on Valentine’s Day.

John Murtha’s Funeral Service

Administrator — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 19:57:42 +0000

Plans, although in speculation, have been set for a viewing at Frank Duca Funeral Home in Westmont PA. A call to Frank Duca Funeral Home confirmed that arrangements are still being made. The possibility still exists that the viewing for John Murtha could be held at an alternate location such as UPJ or Pasquerilla Center due to the size and security of the matter. Frank Duca Funeral Home confirmed that no decisions will be finalized until at least Thursday.

The burial service is also planned to be held at a Mausoleum in Grandview Cemetery – Johnstown, PA

In lieu of flowers, the Murtha family suggests contributions be sent to either:

UPMC John P. Murtha Cancer Pavilion – Johnstown, PA
337 Somerset Street
Johnstown, PA 15901-2541
(814) 534-4724

Joyce Murtha Breast Care Center – Windber, PA
600 Somerset Ave
Windber, PA 15963
866-253-4703

Related John Murtha Articles

Please check back as we obtain further details.
This page will be updated as information is provided.

Murtha’s death to spark Special Election

Nick Pappas — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 19:21:02 +0000

Johnstown, PA – Gov. Ed Rendell has made a statement that he will decide in the next few days the schedule for a special election to replace Rep. John “Jack” Murtha. With the passing of Murtha on 2/8/10 , by law Gov. Rendell has 10 days to schedule an election to replace the lawmaker. This seat from what we understand must be filled within a 60 day window. Further estimates have pointed to holding this election in May and the winner would only hold the position for the remainder of the year unless they would happen to win the general election held in November.

Democrats have been in domination for the past for this seat, but with Murtha passing opens up a postion that could win back the seat for republicans. This we expect would have minor effect based on the fact that Democrats still hold a majority. We are expecting a competitive contrest in the race to replace Murtha even though Murtha has been the one to steer federal money to this district. His district covers most of nine counties Western PA.

Murtha who was elected in 1974 and has served for 35 years died Monday Feb 8th at the age of 77 in a Virginia hospital center after suffering complications from gallbladder surgery. It appears this was caused by damage to his large intestine which lead to an infection, fever, and his re-admittance to the hospital center. He will be long known for going above and beyond for those in military uniform especially veterans.

Stingrays lend Chiefs Helping Hand to Aid Cause

Johnstown Chiefs — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:25:01 +0000

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – The Johnstown Chiefs would like to thank everyone from the South Carolina Stingrays’ Booster Club, staff, players, and fans for their generous donation of 275 boxes of band-aids to be donated to Brent’s Band-Aids.

On December 18, 2009 the Chiefs held a benefit night to help collect band-aids for seven year old Brent Swaltek. Diagnosed with leukemia over the summer, Brent began collecting boxes of cartoon band-aids and donating them to Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh to give to its patients. Brent found out, after one of his treatments, that the hospital doesn’t buy cartoon band-aids because they cost more than plain ones. Since then he made it his goal to collect and donate as many boxes as possible to the hospital.

When others outside of the Johnstown community offered to donate towards Brent’s cause, the Chiefs were open to the idea and more than amazed. The Stingrays’ Booster Club president Terri Mills contacted us that they had begun collecting and we were thrilled to be able to present Brent with more band-aids,” said director of communication and customer relations Ray Schmitt.

Brent was presented with the donated band-aids on Saturday morning by Stingrays players Matt Scherer, Spencer Carbery, and Nate Kiser. As a special treat the players welcomed him onto their bench where Brent was able to watch their morning skate in preparation for that night’s game. As nice as the Stingrays were, Brent and his family were happy that the Chiefs beat them in a shootout that night!

Now with South Carolina’s help, the Chiefs have been able to donate nearly one thousand boxes of band-aids to Brent for his charity.

“With these band-aids, we are not only helping Brent, but we are helping hundreds of patients at Children’s hospital in Pittsburgh. We’re extremely proud of our fans and their donation efforts, but it’s especially heartwarming that Brent’s story touched people in the hockey community nearly 700 miles away. Hopefully the donations will keep rolling in this season and beyond,” added Schmitt.

Mark your calendars! The Chiefs return to Johnstown on Sunday, February 14 against the Cincinnati Cyclones at 7:05. The Chiefs will holding a coloring contest for kids in attendance sponsored by BIC. Kids can pick up the drawings at the Chiefs’ information table and color them at the game. The best judged coloring will get a great Chiefs prize. Good seats still remain and for individual tickets, go to ticketmaster.com or call 1-745-3000.

February 8, 2010
Contact Ray Schmitt for more information
814-539-1799 x 226
ray@johnstownchiefs.com

Twitter Updates: 2010-02-09

Administrator — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:00:00 +0000

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Snow Storm in Johnstown-2

Administrator — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:22:37 +0000

With all of the headlines this past week, hearing that more snow is on the way for our area throughout tonight and tomorrow is more than unnerving for most. According to the National Weather Service, we can expect another 8-12 inches of snowfall tonight that will continue overnight, falling steady into tomorrow morning and tapering off in the afternoon. Apparently this situation is being caused by two different storms that are going to merge over the entire northeast at some point tonight. One is an area of low pressure moving east over the Ohio Valley and the other is an additional area of low pressure that is moving north towards the New Jersey Shore.

As these two storms meet, the accumulation that is expected will blanket the Laurel Highlands with 8-12 inches of snow and the areas to the east and north including Washington DC, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, and others will receive more than 12 inches.

You can learn more about this storm on The Weather Channel’s Website.