Local News 3-18-13

Board of Trustees Meeting Sparks Controversy

Reactions to Friday’s Penn State Board of Trustees meeting in Hershey continue to pour in from across the state. Comments from Trustee Ken Frazier made last week denouncing a board candidate and supporting the Freeh report have stirred the most controversy. Frazier apologized for brash remarks, but stood by his position against the Paterno report and the board’s action on Friday. Five Penn State football alumni spoke during the public comments session on Friday, each expressing concern with a disconnect between some board members and university alumni.

Lawmakers are also chiming in. Centre County State Representative Scott Conklin hopes the board changes its structure. Conklin proposed legislation to remove the university president and Pennsylvania Governor as voting members of the board. Conklin’s bills are currently under review by the House Education Committee or the House State Government Committee. 

Kidnapping Scam

State College Police are warning residents about a kidnapping scam after one area resident received a phony call demanding ransom from a fictional kidnapping. Police say scammers used a basic script and cell phone, claiming a relative was involved in a car accident, abducted and held hostage, only to be released for a cash sum. Police located the relative of the victim and confirmed his safety. They also determined the suspect was calling from Puerto Rico using a prepaid cell phone. Anyone receiving this type of call should not panic and call 911 immediately.