CONFLUENCE — Rescue crews recovered the body of a man who was among four people thrown from a boat into Youghiogheny River Lake near Confluence in Fayette County during the holiday weekend.

Scott Grahn, an instructor and trainer with the state Fish and Boat Commission, told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review that searchers found the body of 50-year-old Patrick Himmler, of Cumberland, Md., at about 5:45 p.m. Wednesday.

His body was found about 100 yards from where the boat is believed to have flipped over while making a fast turn Saturday afternoon.

Commission spokesman Eric Levis said Himmler’s sister and two juveniles were also on the boat. Authorities have said they were treated for injuries.

Critz pushes action on fair-trade bill

U.S. Rep. Mark Critz, D-Johnstown, took action Wednesday to force a vote on job-creating legislation that would pressure countries such as China to play by the rules of fair trade.

Last month, Critz introduced legislation that would provide for the immediate consideration of the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act. The bill has stalled in the House Ways and Means Committee.

On Wednesday, Critz filed a discharge petition on the bill, forcing the House to immediately consider the legislation.

Escaped snake still on the loose

TWIN ROCKS – A snake that slithered away from a home in Twin Rocks a week ago still has not been found.

Derek Laney, 15, said he captured an 8-foot-long snake that he thought was a Burmese python, but the snake escaped from a container.

Blacklick Township police said Wednesday that the snake remains on the loose.

Authorities suspect the owner could no longer care for the snake and released it before the reptile was found by Laney.

Local bosses ready to dunk for charity

Richland Cinemas will host a dunk tank from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday to note the opening of the films “Horrible Bosses” and “Zookeeper” – and to raise money for charity.

The public will have a chance to dunk local bosses to raise money for the Pittsburgh Zoo's International Conservation Center in Somerset County.

The center is home to three African elephants, and other wild species will be introduced in the years to come.

Prizes to be raffled off include a framed “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” movie poster signed by the film’s star, Kevin James.

Trivia questions with giveaways will be part of the day.

Dunk-tank participants will include Lori Morealli, Susan Dadey and Ed Schellenbach of Concurrent Technologies Corp., 11 a.m., 11:30 and noon, respectively; Don Carney of PETCO, 1 p.m.; Robin Quillon of The Tribune-Democrat,

1:30-2:30; Dr. Craig Fockler,  2:30; John Riccilli of AT&T, 4; and Ed Troll of Richland Cinemas, 5.

Opening celebration set at dog park

The Sandyvale Dog Park will hold a dedication ceremony and dog walk celebrating the opening of the park at noon Sunday.

The dog park recently received a $3,000 gift from Erie Indemnity, which provided the money to complete it.

In addition to a place to let pets run, the park will provide a base for activities such as sessions in pet therapy, animal education and husbandry.

TV personality Tim Rigby will be the emcee, Johnstown Mayor Tom Trigona will deliver a proclamation and the Rev. Wilbert Boerstler will bless the animals. Activities are planned throughout the afternoon with judging and prizes as well.

Participants will include the Conemaugh Health Foundation Pet Therapy Program, Habitat for Hounds, Humane Society, PETCO, Johnstown Pet Services, Keystone Greyhounds, Liz’s Pet Sitting and other businesses.

Pony rides for children and refreshments will be available.

Tickets available for Patton day at Curve

PATTON – The Patton Pavers will host another Community Day at the Curve on Sunday. The game will start at 6 p.m. and will include fireworks afterwards.

Tickets cost $5 each and must be ordered no later than noon Saturday.

Tickets are being sold at the Patton Pool or by mail. To order tickets, send a check made out to the Patton Pavers to: David O’Hara 505 Fifth Ave., Patton, Pa. 16668.

To save on gas, fans can pay an extra $2 per person to ride a bus, which will leave Leyo’s parking lot at 4:30. Those leaving their cars should park by C&G Savings Bank. High school students can ride the bus without a chaperone.

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