today’s news and information gleanings from here and there! 

• Today’s Weather! 
• Today in History!
• Traffic Cam Rts. 30 & 441
• The Official Time! – Population Clock (U.S. and World)

Quote for today… “If we want to truly regain the public’s trust, we can provide greater accountability and transparency with a simple step. Let’s start by communicating to our constituents about the votes we take.” – Melissa Bean

• “Block scheduling, new fitness equipment, higher lunch prices and staffing alterations are among the changes that will be in place when the Columbia Borough School District starts classes on Monday, Aug. 27.” – MyColumbiaNews

• Symptoms of ineffectiveness: “When the same people are appointed to the same positions for decades, it eliminates perspective and discourages citizens from submitting resumes for open positions,” he (Pequea Valley School board member Jay Reynolds) said following the resignation of the school board president. Reynolds’ comment was directed at the impending “appointment” of a board replacement. “Reynolds, the vice chairman, said he believes in term limits and appointing people with expertise to boards and commissions.” – Lancaster Intelligencer Journal/New Era

• Marietta councilor resigns, saying “it is council’s job to ‘serve, not dictate.’” – Lancaster Intelligencer Journal/New Era

• Fourth Fridays in Columbia – Friday

• “The Paul Ryan Insider Trading Story Won’t Die Because It’s Legitimate” – AlterNet

• “The former operators of a restaurant and bar at Hotel Locust in Columbia have opened a similar business about two blocks away. PJ’s Lounge, at 141 Locust St., is in the building formerly occupied by the Lazy K Lounge. PJ’s 2,090-square-foot, 165-seat bar area will feature six drafts and entertainment, including comedy acts, country, bluegrass, oldies and popular music, said Jesse Kline, who owns the bar-restaurant with Pam Lake. The offerings from the kitchen, which is expected to open Friday, will include Kline’s cheesesteaks and chicken cheesesteaks; fresh, in-season seafood such as steamed crabs and shrimp on Thursdays; broasted chicken; and wings. PJ’s also can seat 60 on a 2,500-square-foot patio, and takeout will be available at a separate entrance, Kline said. Sometime next month, PJ’s will begin serving a brunch every other Sunday, catering to area motorcycle clubs that ride for charity, Kline said. Bar hours: Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Thursday to Saturday 10 a.m.-midnight, Sunday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Kitchen hours: Tuesday to Thursday 5-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 5-9 p.m. (brunch hours to be determined). Phone: 684-0461.” – Lancaster Intelligencer Journal/New Era