By David DeKok, The Patriot-News, Harrisburg, Pa. Jan. 3--It's not a happy new year for Potter County and its largest town, Coudersport.

By Mike Joseph, The Centre Daily Times, State College, Pa. Oct. 18--The natural gas giant planning to build a pipeline compressor station near Pleasant Gap will pay $850,000 for past environmental violations at compressor stations in Potter County under a new agreement with two state agencies.

By Karen Smith and Brenda Bernet, Amarillo Globe-News, Texas Apr. 7--Fires across the Texas Panhandle on Thursday scorched at least 21,450 acres and destroyed 11 homes, said Traci Weaver, spokeswoman for the Texas Forest Service.

By Scott Waltman, American News, Aberdeen, S.D. Feb. 23--Marlin R. "Rich" Miner Jr. pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of theft and resigned Wednesday as Potter County sheriff. Miner also agreed to give up his certification as a South Dakota law enforcer.