Archives for 2011

Merry Christmas Clearfield County

Wyatt Bloom -- Staff Writer

17 Dec 2011 - 1140 EDT

    As a young woman sat in her home, a brilliant man appeared in her sight.  She stumbled and stuttered in fear.  After a brief moment, the man spoke saying, “Do not fear, young woman!  You have be favored and chosen to deliver and raise a son.  This child is already in your womb.”

    “How can I have a child in my womb?”  The young woman replied.  “I am still a virgin.”

    “The One who created this world has sent the Holy Spirit and provided you with a baby in your womb.  He is the Son of God and His name will be called Jesus.”

    At the time of the birth, the young woman along with her fiancée traveled to a town called Nazareth.  It was so crowded that there was no place to rent or spend the night.  The only option offered was an animal stable.

    And so it was, this child of God was born in a lowly and humble place, among the straw and hay.

    This is the reason for Christmas!  While you and your family celebrate the giving of gifts and enjoying your Christmas meal, take a moment to remember why we celebrate and rejoice.

    From the Bloom family and the Gross family, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas!  May God be with you as He is with us!

Christmas Events in Clearfield County

Wyatt Bloom -- Staff Writer

- Dec 3, 2011 -- 1000 EDT

    How was your Thanksgiving?  Were you able to find good deals the Black Thursday/Friday or on Cyber Week?

    This is a short note to tell you about the events in Clearfield County marking and celebrating the birth of our King and Savior along with Christmas fun for your children.  We encourage you to take the time to enjoy one or more of these awesome events.

- 52^nd Annual Search for Peace – Curwensville United Methodist Church, Dec 2 – 4

- Visit with Santa Claus – Shaw Santa House, Dec 3-4, 10-11, & 17-18

- Annual Advent Day of Reflection – Bethany Retreat Center in Frenchville, Dec 4, 9:30 AM – 5 PM

- Treats and Photos with Santa Claus – 1300 Leonard St, Clearfield, Dec 12, 6-8 PM

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wyatt Bloom -- Staff Writer

Nov 20, 2011 - 1620 EDT

    This Thursday marks the official 148^th Thanksgiving Day holiday in the United States although it has been celebrated for over two centuries before the official proclamation by U.S. President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 by the original colonials, pilgrims, and Native Americans.  The first Thanksgiving was celebrated to give thanks to God for their safe journey to the New World.

    Thanksgiving was celebrated sporadically since that first feast.  This day of thanks was celebrated for a number of reasons, but nearly all of them focused on giving thanks to God.  Some thanksgivings were celebrated after battles, some after bountiful harvest seasons, and some were held after fasting during a drought.

    As years went by, the day of Thanksgiving began to be proclaimed beginning with the Continental Congress during the Revolutionary War with the following speech,

    "FOR AS MUCH as it is the indispensable Duty of all Men to adore the superintending Providence of Almighty God; to acknowledge with Gratitude their Obligation to him for Benefits received, and to implore such farther Blessings as they stand in Need of: And it having pleased him in his abundant Mercy, not only to continue to us the innumerable Bounties of his common Providence; but also to smile upon us in the Prosecution of a just and necessary War, for the Defense and Establishment of our unalienable Rights and Liberties; particularly in that he hath been pleased, in so great a Measure, to prosper the Means used for the Support of our Troops, and to crown our Arms with most signal success: It is therefore recommended to the legislative or executive Powers of these UNITED STATES to set apart THURSDAY, the eighteenth Day of December next, for SOLEMN THANKSGIVING and PRAISE: That at one Time and with one Voice, the good People may express the grateful Feelings of their Hearts, and consecrate themselves to the Service of their Divine Benefactor; and that, together with their sincere Acknowledgments and Offerings, they may join the penitent Confession of their manifold Sins, whereby they had forfeited every Favor; and their humble and earnest Supplication that it may please GOD through the Merits of JESUS CHRIST, mercifully to forgive and blot them out of Remembrance; That it may please him graciously to afford his Blessing on the Governments of these States respectively, and prosper the public Council of the whole: To inspire our Commanders, both by Land and Sea, and all under them, with that Wisdom and Fortitude which may render them fit Instruments, under the Providence of Almighty GOD, to secure for these United States, the greatest of all human Blessings, INDEPENDENCE and PEACE: That it may please him, to prosper the Trade and Manufactures of the People, and the Labor of the Husbandman, that our Land may yield its Increase: To take Schools and Seminaries of Education, so necessary for cultivating the Principles of true Liberty, Virtue and Piety, under his nurturing Hand; and to prosper the Means of Religion, for the promotion and enlargement of that Kingdom, which consisteth "in Righteousness, Peace and Joy in the Holy Ghost. And it is further recommended, That servile Labor, and such Recreation, as, though at other Times innocent, may be unbecoming the Purpose of this Appointment, be omitted on so solemn an Occasion."[1]

    Our first U.S. President, George Washington proclaimed and created the first Thanksgiving Day of the United States on October 3, 1789.  Thereafter, he along with other U.S. Presidents would formally proclaim Thanksgiving Day on various, non-concurrent years until President Abraham Lincoln officially proclaimed to create a national Thanksgiving Day.

    I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.[2]

    Today, Thanksgiving Day can be seen in many different ways and celebrated in just as many different styles as well.  From a quaint meal with beloved family and friends to a drama filled day that would test any relative or friend.  However, the basis for this recognized holiday is to take a moment to offer our praise and grateful thanks to the One who is in control of it all.  Our Lord God Almighty!  The God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the Father of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Clearfield-County.Com wishes you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving!

A Grateful Thank You

Wyatt Bloom -- Staff Writer

Nov 11, 2011 - 1015 EDT

    Today, we pause to remember, gratefully thank, and solemnly salute those that have and continue to serve this fabulous and prestigious country.  Without their dedication and their willingness to serve this great and mighty nation, the United States of America would not be what it is today, FREE!

    Over 17 years ago, I chose to join the US Air Force and to serve this country in which I love.  However, though I love this country very much, in my heart, I am defending not only the USA, but more specifically my home, Clearfield, Pennsylvania.

    Like countless others before and after me, it was on Feb 8, 1995 that I took this oath for the first time, “"I, Wyatt Bloom, do solemnly affirm that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God."

    I have repeated this oath 3 times, serving nearly 17 years in the US Air Force and will continue to honor that oath.

    As stated before, a countless number of others have taken that oath and have given their livelihoods and their lives so that we may have the life and the amenities that we do in this awesome nation.

    I personally want to thank my father, Marine Corporal Lloyd Bloom, who faithfully served in the early 1970s during the Vietnam War.  I also want to thank my fellow brethren at the 421^st Contingency Training Squadron stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst for their dedicated service in all that they do to train, equip, and prepare our US Air Force personnel for their deployed assignments.  We also want to thank our good friends and Marines Kurt and Tim Smay for their faithful service.

    Once again, Soldier, Airman, Sailor, Marine, and Weekend Warrior, we thank you and salute you for your service!

The End of an Awesome Era

Wyatt Bloom -- Staff Writer

Along with sources from Centre Daily Times, GantDaily, WJAC, and WTAJ

November 8, 2011 - 1530 ET

    Clearfield-County.Com is saddened by the tragic news of Joe Paterno (aka JoePa) announcing his retirement at the end of his 46th season brought on by the unfortunate news of a former defensive coordinator's actions.

    The 84 year old legend leaves behind a grand legacy which can seen on Centre Daily Times and WJAC-TV 6's pages.  Along with those captured moments, he has led the Nittany Lion Football team to 409 winning games.

    In a released statement early Wednesday morning, Mr. Paterno said this, “I am absolutely devastated by the developments in this case. I grieve for the children and their families, and I pray for their comfort and relief. I have come to work every day for the last 61 years with one clear goal in mind: to serve the best interests of this university and the young men who have been entrusted to my care. I have the same goal today. That’s why I have decided to announce my retirement effective at the end of this season. At this moment the Board of Trustees should not spend a single minute discussing my status. They have far more important matters to address. I want to make this as easy for them as I possibly can. This is a tragedy. It is one of the great sorrows of my life. With the benefit of hindsight, I wish I had done more.”

    You can visit these great sources for more in-depth coverage: Centre Daily Times, Gant Daily, WJAC-TV, and WTAJ-TV.  However, Clearfield-County.Com wanted to share our humble grief in reading and hearing that the legend that Jason and Wyatt grew up with, who we broadcasted their football games when we worked at 900-WCPA nearly 17 years ago.  It is sincerely a sad moment for Penn State University and Central Pennsylvania.  We will miss you coach!  Thank you for your years of dedicated service!

    For those who would like to share, please join us on our Facebook page and/or on Twitter (@ClrfdCtyCom).

Where are Wyatt and Jason at?

Wyatt Bloom -- Staff Writer

November 7, 2011 - 2030 ET

    Hey Clearfield County!  We have not fallen away, rather we have been quite busy on other projects and we apologize for the brief interruption in publishing another feature story.

    Wyatt recently received orders and is now assigned to the newly formed Defense Media Agency at Fort George Meade, MD.  With the new assignment came a busy move for him and his family from Ft Dix, NJ to MD.  In his new assignment, he will be working on the broadcast transmission for all of the television and radio broadcasts within the Department of Defense networks.

    Jason has been hard at work as well with two new endeavors connecting with our 80s nostalgia.  The first of which is his blog, “Rediscover the 80s”.  His articles and tweets have recently caught the eyes of celebrities such as Martha Quinn and Alan Hunter, two of the original MTV VJays, along with Greg Kihn, who sang the two great hits “Jeopardy” and “The Breakup Song.”  Additionally, he has been contributing articles for Under Scoop Fire, another website dedicated to the 80s.

    In addition to all of this busy work, Jason and Wyatt have been continuing on their movie project, which began in November of 2008, “M.A.S.K. the Movie.”  It is based on an 80s television cartoon show that they grew up watching.  For nearly a year now, they have been working to publicize their screenplay both to the fans and to movie venues in the hopes that their script will make it to the silver screen.  Jason and Wyatt encourage you to learn more and become fans of their venture at their M.A.S.K. blog and on their MASK the Movie Facebook page.

Falling into Autumn

Wyatt Bloom -- Staff Writer

October 5, 2011 - 1030 ET

   Fall is on its way.  School is in full swing.  Football season is already capturing our attention whether locally with our children or nationally in front of the blue hued entertainer.  Along with all of this, an occasional chill has come over our area hinting ever the more that the enjoyable warm weather is fading into the distance.

   The emerald trees along our landscape are beginning their transformation into the flamboyant arrangement of orange, yellow, red, and brown colors.  Lawn mowers and leaf rakes will be working overtime to keep up with keeping our yards clean and making our children giddy as they jump into those piles of autumn foliage.

   Autumn festivals will abound throughout October and November all of which can be found on the Clearfield Chamber or Visit Clearfield County’s event calendars.

   During all of this hustle and bustle, take a few moments to look over your home to ensure it is ready for the cool weather.  Ensure your furnace is in working order by replacing the air filters, ensuring vents and registers are clean, and overall that they are in a safe, working condition.  Take the time to clean out your chimney and for those that have wood or coal furnaces, ensure that they are empty of ashes and fully prepared for their wintry task.  If you have window air conditioners, it may be time to remove them to help insulate your home.  Turn off shut off valves to your outdoor water faucets to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting.  For those that happen to live in mobile homes, take the time to inspect and insulate the pipes underneath your home and ensure the wind skirts of the home are securely in place as well.

   If you are in need of heating assistance, the PA Dept of Public Welfare participates in the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and will begin taking applications on November 1^st.  To obtain assistance, you can go to http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/foradults/heatingassistanceliheap/S_000960 or you may visit or call the Clearfield County Assistance Office located at 1025 Leonard St in Clearfield or call 800-862-8941 or 765-0684.

Remembering September Eleventh

-- Clearfield-County.Com Exclusive

Clearfield-County.Com Staff Writers

September 10, 2011 - 2040 ET

    We at Clearfield-County.Com recollect the day that our nation was struck by an emotionally catastrophic event that will forever remain in our minds and our hearts.  Who would have imagined that a group of people would capture four innocent passenger planes and transform them into lethal weapons?  The clangs from those attacks continue to resound throughout our country.

   Clearfield-County.Com wish those of you that lost loved ones during these attacks our sympathy and prayers.  We also want to thank those of you that took part in the rescue and clean up of those attacks a deep, heartfelt thank you for what you have done for Clearfield County and our nation.

   As we go through this day, we thought it would be insightful, historic, and interesting to tell your story of that day.  Where were you?  What were you doing? How did it affect you then and now?  Who was in your mind?  And so on.  Please share your story with us on our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ClearfieldCounty, as Jason and I share our separate stories. 

Jason recalls 9/11:

   My wife and I were living in Atlanta, GA at the time.  I was working for a mailing company and heard on the radio about a plane colliding with one of the World Trade Center towers.  When word came through that another plane had hit the other tower, we all were pretty much dumbfounded at what was going on.

   When it was reported that a plane was down in Pennsylvania, I immediately stopped what I was doing and called my family in Clearfield. I wasn't sure why central PA was involved at the time, but I wanted to know what my family was doing that day in case I needed to get a hold of them again.  Then, when we heard that the first and then second tower had fallen, we knew it would be a day we would not forget.

   We were glued to the radio reports and waiting to hear from President Bush.  We didn't have a television at our shop, so I didn't see the television footage until I got home that night.  However, my coworkers and I were able to see some pictures over the internet using the computers in the front office.

   9/11 was a real eye opener for me.  I feel that the impact from that day truly awakened me to our country's resolve and history. At 25 years old, I really never truly appreciated our country's freedom until I saw the willingness of others wanting to take it from me.  Since then, I've had a deeper respect for our military and the sacrifice they make everyday.

   Let's remember the victims of 9/11 on this 10th anniversary: the innocent people in the planes, the World Trade Center, and the Pentagon.  As well as those emergency personnel that sacrificed their lives to save others. Finally, let’s remember those in our military that have fought and continue to fight against terrorists since that dreadful day.

   I will never forget!

 Wyatt recalls 9/11:

   I was stationed at Mountain Home AFB in Idaho and sitting at my desk preparing the work orders for my day.  Before that day, I rarely watched or read any news except for Clearfield County news.  One of my fellow Airmen walked in and talking about a DJ’s comments on the radio.  The DJ had said that a small airplane had crashed into one of the Twin Towers and joked at how someone could miss that huge building.  I chuckled and never gave it a second thought.

   As I began to hear more people in the hallway talking about it, I decided to log into MSNBC to watch the news.  Watching it live, I saw the smoke and heart the reporters correctly stating what had happened.  As I watched in amazement, I witnessed the second plane hit the other tower.  Many emotions came over me, however, the only reaction I gave was shock.

   The news continued to pour in and it was stated that this was a terrorist attack.  News of the plane crashing into the Pentagon streamed across as well as the plane that fell in PA.  When I heard about it, I immediately called my father and begged him not to go to work that day.

   The base went into Force Protection Delta (locked down)!  No one was permitted to leave their respective buildings as we did not know when or where the next attack would happen.  After quite some time, we were permitted to leave our buildings and I walked out to get some air and to let these major events sink in.  On a base that typically was filled with mowers, cars, trucks, fighter jets, and such static in the air, it was the complete opposite.  Absolute silence!

   Though I always felt proud to serve for my country and, more importantly, my hometown, I gained a much deeper respect of the job that I perform.  Though I cannot divulge that specific job, I basically ensure that communications are always available to complete the missions.

   I am proud to be an American Airmen.  I am proud to be an American.  I encourage us all to remember how these attacks impacted you and how they may have changed you.  Let us appreciate all those that have served our country to include all of those that rescued and gave their life on 9/11 so that others may live.  To you, the uniformed servant, the rescuer, and the “good Samaritan” I extend a grateful and thankful handshake.

Hurricane Irene

-- Wyatt Bloom

Clearfield-County.Com Staff Writer

August 28, 2011 - 1500 ET

   Hurricane Irene came through making devastating impacts along the Atlantic Coastline.  As the news agencies will be stating, there are approx 4 million without power and 14 dead, according to Foxnews.com.  Thankfully, that's not a lot but as Irene continues, we can expect a few more unfortunately.

   As for Clearfield County, a few towns may have experience some light rain and wind from the outer bands early this morning and into the afternoon.  Clearfield-County.Com was able to provide you with updates via Twitter and Facebook from TSgt Wyatt Bloom who is stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in NJ.  He provided you with personal details of what the weather was doing throughout the Hurricane.  Another Clearfield County native Melinda Wert who lives in VA was able to provide us with updates on Facebook.  We thank her for her submissions!

   Clearfield-County.Com was able to work with Fox 29, myfoxphilly.com, based in Philadelphia, to provide you with direct, live Hurricane Irene coverage to coincide with Wyatt's eye witness accounts.  This was an historical event and we were able to be there providing you all with information.

   Finally, we commend the government leaders, the military and guard units as well as the emergency workers who have provided extraordinary rescue and evacuation efforts during this massive event.  We pray that there are no more deaths or injuries, for the flood waters to recede, and the power to be restored soon.

Attention!  Attention!  May I Have Your Attention!

-- Wyatt Bloom

Clearfield-County.Com Staff Writer

July 8, 2011 - 1915 ET

   Ladies and Gentlemen, children of all ages, let’s get ready to rumble at the 151^st Clearfield County Fair!  Yes, for 151 years Clearfield County and many others have been gathering at the fairgrounds to have a great time filled with spectacular entertainment, fun rides, and fabulous food.

   It all begins on July 31^st with the Magic of Curt Anderson at 2 and 4 PM at the David Litz Grove Stage.  At 3 PM, the captivating fair queen contest will be held at the Grandstand Stage.  Vesper Services will be held at 6 PM at the DL Grove Stage and then at 8 PM, the awesome band A Day Awaits will be playing at the DL Grove Stage also.

   That’s just scratching the service, y’all.  The fair officially kicks off on August 1^st with a few expositions opening up at 11 AM such as the First Bite Fish Tank and Bar C Ranch Petting Zoo & Camel Rides.  Beginning at 11:45 AM, the first annual culinary contest will be held at the DL Grove Stage.  But what’s a Clearfield County fair without Harness Racing?  That starts up at noon over at the race track.  Don’t get exhausted by all this fun yet, the Walker Brothers Circus starts up at 1, 4:30, and 7 PM with the Cake Auction at 3 PM at the DL Grove Stage.  Then, it’s time to show your moves with DJ Super Stew crankin’ it up at the DL Grove Stage from 5 – 9 PM.

   We’re still not done with Monday!  The tremendous Fireman’s Parade begins at 6 PM at the corners of Market St and North 4^th St.  During this parade, many local marching bands, businesses, and other great performers will be entertaining one and all along the route.  Don’t forget, you’ll see us DJs WB and Jam Master J (aka Wyatt & Jason) of yours truly, Clearfield-County.Com, playing music from our blue Dodge Dakota.  But it’s not just any music, it’s Clearfield County bands and musicians!  That’s right, you’ll be hearing from Fred Myers, The Primer Greys, and Revenge Memorial, but we’re still asking for more.  (It’s a long ride at 2 MPH)  If you are a local musician or band, please send us your music to play.  Please contact us at bands@clearfield-county.com for more info or to send us your music.  Please keep in mind that it must be clean (no foul language and no sexually explicit music – we’re playing in front of kids and adults).

   “But wait, that’s not all,” we’ll be tossing out goodies along the way and to make things more interesting, we’ve got another contest for you to participate in.  First, you must be a fan of our fanpage on Facebook so log in and like us at www.facebook.com/ClearfieldCounty .  Second, have your camera ready at the parade and take photos of us as we make our way past you.  Finally, upload your photos to our fanpage and send us your e-mail address by Tuesday, August 2^nd at midnight.  Jason and I will randomly choose 2 winners and we’ll present the gifts to the winners at the Clearfield County Fair.  Please note that though we will gladly accept all photos, we must limit it to 1 photo entry per person.  Thanks!

   Now back from the commercial break…We still aren’t done with Monday!  We gotta stay up for the big bang!  Towards the evening, enjoy an awesome fireworks display.  (pssst!  The best seats are in the Grandstand or VERY close by)

   Whew!  That was a rich full day!  But, we still have 6 more days of truly remarkable entertainment, amusements, and totally wicked food to enjoy.  These days are packed full of fun!  Not to mention, we have some truly exceptional entertainment such as Country Music singer Trace Atkins with Special Guest Kellie Pickler performing Wednesday at 8 PM, the very awesome Truck & Tractor Pull on Thursday at 7 PM, Big Time Rush will be appearing on Friday at 8 PM, and to close out the fair just right, the remarkable hard rock bands Cinderella, Firehouse, and Slaughter will all be performing on Saturday starting at 7 PM.  We do want to add a small word of caution, please be aware that you may become hoarse and/or deaf and therefore you just may have to call in sick if your job involves listening or speaking. :D

CLEARFIELD COUNTY…GET READY FOR THE CLEARFIELD COUNTY FAIR!!!

Remember...

-- Wyatt Bloom

Clearfield-County.Com Staff Writer

May 3, 2011 - 0700 EST

For many, the cliché “April showers bring May flowers” is a delightful adage.  We appreciate and anticipate the warmer weather from the bitter cold and several feet of snow that plagues our wintery way of life.  We look forward to enjoying any form of outdoor activity whether that be simply taking a leisurely stroll through downtown or the rush of hitting a two base hit dash.

With the pleasantries of spring also marks an important day of remembrance.  It is a day when we take a few solemn moments to remember those who have died for our dear country’s service.  We remember those who died fighting for the expansion of the United States (among other reasons) in 1812.  Of which, over 2,200 Americans were killed and 4,500 were wounded.

During the American Civil War (1861-1865), approximately 625,000 people died between the two sides while over 412,000 were wounded fighting for or against the idea of slavery (though there were other facets that fueled the battle).  Sadly, many of the men that fought were battling their own family members.  This year marks the 150^th anniversary with many reenactments being held in various battlefields throughout the US.

These major wars were all fought on American soil however, there were many other little battles fought as the United States progressed in its occupation of the continent.  39 wars were fought with the Native Americans from 1785 until 1891.

Triggered by the assassination of the heir to the throne of Austria, the US fought alongside France, the British Empire, Brazil, and several other countries loosing 117,465 military and civilian lives in World War I.

The US also played a crucial role in the Second World War fighting against Germany and Japan, primarily; however, our country lost approximately 418,500 military and civilians.

Other subsequent wars arose with our nation’s support of our allies, such as the Korean War, the Vietnam Conflict, the Gulf War, and the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan; yet, our own soil has been graciously free from war for quite some time.

In all of these great tragedies, we have sacrificed many lives primarily for the greater good of our country.  We all have our own views of our government, the politics, the laws, and such, but when it comes down to the foundations of our inner American roots, words cannot express our deepest, heartfelt gratitude for what our military forefathers have done to provide us our current way of life.  We proudly salute you, the fallen troops of the United States of America.

April 1, 2011

--Wyatt Bloom

Clearfield-County.Com, Staff Writer

    A rash of vandalism torments the town of Clearfield overnight!  Though the vandalism seems to only be mild, the pranksters have targeted both business owners and historical landmarks.  “It’s truly appalling to see our signs and landmarks tampered with,” said a local business owner.

    “Who would have thought of such a thing?” a Wal-mart customer said as well.  Clearfield-County.Com has the exclusive pictures from the crime scenes.

After a quick investigation by a Clearfield Crime Stopper member, the missing letters were discovered at the old True Value parking lot,

Curwensville Native Hosts New “Wild Animal Repo” Show On Discovery Channel

-- Jason Gross

Clearfield-County.Com Staff Writer

Jan 12, 2011 - 1830 EST

   Scott Lope’s compassion and advocacy for animals are known the world over.  And now, in what he calls the “culmination of his career,” Scott will put on display his determination and willingness to rescue animals from harmful situations in the new Discovery channel show “Wild Animal Repo.”

   Scott’s path to professional animal rescuer started in Curwensville, Pennsylvania.  As a boy, he kept a watchful eye for any stray or hurt animals that he could bring home and foster back to health.  But even with this love for animals instilled in his heart at a young age, he did not pursue a career caring for them right away.  After graduating from high school, Scott joined the United States Air Force and studied in the medical field of histopathology at MacDill AFB, in Tampa, Florida.  Upon returning from the Gulf War, Scott followed his heart to nearby Big Cat Rescue where he began volunteering his time to help care for rescued cats.  His life’s calling was found and he eventually worked his way up to director of operations.

   He received national recognition for his work during his tenure at BCR and was featured on such shows as History channel’s “Monster Quest”, Animal Planet’s “Untamed and Uncut” and also appeared as an animal expert for several cable networks like, CNN and FOX.  In 2009, Scott was honored with Animal Planet’s Hero of the Year, which became evidence to his success and also gave him the drive to expand his career.

   Scott believes that educating our planet about all animals is bigger than any one cause or organization.  After 12 years of working exclusively with big cats, he has now committed his time and career to rescuing of all types of animals from “those who do not respect them.”  While on location for an episode of “Untamed and Uncut”, Scott had a conversation with the producers about the rescue of some of the big cats.  He told them how some were rescued from drug dealers and inexperienced breeders, who had no idea how to properly care for the animals and wanted them more for their own personal benefit.  From those stories spawned the idea for a new show.

    After 2 years in the making, Scott now has the opportunity to demonstrate the job he loves.  “Wild Animal Repo” will feature the rescue of many different animals such as lions, tigers, monkeys, wolves, and bears.  The difference between “Wild Animal Repo” and other repo-type reality shows is that it will focus on the whole story, not just the retrieval of the animals.  “I’m not Dog the Bounty Hunter and (the show) is not about human confrontation,” Scott says.  Although the aspect of human conflict occasionally arises, the process to secure the animals and provide a sanctuary for them has a much greater importance to Scott.

   The process, which can last months, begins with Scott receiving tips through the animal community and from his website to locate possible animals in need.  Once a situation is identified, proper animal sanctuaries are contacted to supply a safe haven for each animal.  Careful measures are then taken with local authorities to ensure the legality of each rescue after which, Scott uses the show’s resources to obtain the necessary equipment and transportation.  The safety of the animals as well as for Scott and his crew is always the most important part in each process.  Many rescues have now been filmed for the show and are continuing to be filmed this year.

   The first episode will feature 3 separate rescues in Texas which include 22 bears from a suspected breeding facility, a troop of capuchin monkeys from a soon to be demolished roadside zoo, and six tigers in flimsy cages.  The show has filmed 6 episodes for the first season thus far, featuring about 3 rescues in each.  Episode one will air on the Discovery Channel, on Sunday, January 16^th at 9pm EST, with a repeat at 12 midnight EST.

   For more information about “Wild Animal Repo” or to report the abuse of an exotic animal, please visit www.ScottLope.com.  You can find Scott Lope’s page on Facebook for access to show clips, updates, and postings directly from Scott.

Clearfield-County.com Creator Unveils New Website; Offers A Fresh Look At County News And Resources

-- Jason Gross, Clearfield-County.com Staff Writer -- 1 January 2011, 0700 EST

   It’s been around for almost 9 years, quietly available for anyone to explore.  Now, with a nice push from social networking, Clearfield-County.Com is becoming more widely known to county residents and long lost natives.  And with more visitors to the website comes a new look and improved interaction with what might be the county’s most complete web resource.

   Born in Philipsburg and raised in Clearfield, Wyatt Bloom has always had a heart for Clearfield County.  Traveling the world with the United States Air Force never kept him from forgetting his central Pennsylvania pedigree.  He has been stationed throughout the United States and overseas, but now resides with his wife Juli in Browns Mills, New Jersey. His current assignment at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is the closest he has been to his hometown since joining the military in February 1995.  Pursuing a technical career with the USAF, Wyatt has always been at the forefront of technology.

   In 1995, he created his first webpage dedicated to Clearfield County.  Then with more than just a tribute to his homeland in mind, he translated the webpage into its own domain in early 2002.  “The goal (of Clearfield-County.Com) was to reach both internally to the county and externally to visitors, tourists, and potential businesses,” says Wyatt.  Links to everything from county fire and police department sites to government and historical sites were immediately added.  Photos, classified ads, county news and weather feeds, and even merchandise all followed to create a comprehensive resource for any involved resident or former native to find.  Clearfield-County.Com has surpassed the original concept according to Wyatt.  “Annual web traffic continues to rise, most of the time doubling, as well as many inquiring e-mails about local events or the area.  (That) was my intent, to get people interested in my home county.”

   Now in its third generation, the website has received a makeover, but at the same time, staying true to its former versions.  “The third generation (website) has been remade to give the reader a much cleaner, user-friendly format much like news organizations,” says Wyatt.  “Other sites have some (county) resources but they are primarily advertising billboards.  Whereas, our site is meant to be the county’s one stop resource site for news, weather, events, and so forth.  Additionally, our feature story and local news will be readily available on the main page along with a mobile version providing news and weather information.”  Over 215 resource links are available on the new version of the website, which cover Clearfield County history, community, media, leisure, and more.

   The future is bright for Clearfield-County.Com with adding social network capabilities.  The popularity of Facebook prompted Wyatt to create two pages to coincide with the website.  The Clearfield, PA and Clearfield County pages on Facebook have over 3,500 followers, wanting to connect with their community. Using these new tools will allow information to be passed rapidly and allow more interaction between past and present county residents.  “Anyone is welcome to contribute with current event stories, historical stories, and other items of interest to our county,” Wyatt says.

   On a personal note, his plan is not just for personal gain, but hopes to be able to give back more than information through the growth of Clearfield-County.com and its Facebook pages.  “The underlying concept is not just to be simply an information resource site, but to also be a resource.  In that, we are able to give back to the community in the form of grants and/or scholarships.”  Wyatt hopes 2011 will surpass his expectations and bring many new visitors to the website.  Comments and feedback about the new site can be given to Wyatt by clicking the About Us tab on the website or by posting a message on either Facebook page.