ifredregill@altoonamirror.com
Focusing on communication technology could help the Altoona Police Department bridge the gap between today’s youth and understanding the role of law enforcement in the community, a police spokesman said.
On Dec. 15, Altoona police Sgt. Matt Plummer replaced Sgt. Tom Venios as the department’s lead on public relations and special events, and Plummer said he would like to use the position to explore social media options for future APD communications.
“We’re public servants, and the public has a right to know how we conduct our business,” Plummer said. “We’ve used Facebook for a while now, but I would like to explore other platforms as a way to reach kids and show them we are more than what they see on TV.”
ifredregill@altoonamirror.com
Jerry Hagen plows the driveway of his Grant Street home in Gallitzin with the help of his granddaughter, Kylee Patterson, 8, on Thursday afternoon.
Mirror photo by Patrick Waksmunski
Drivers kept the Altoona Police Department busy during the storm Wednesday, but it was a quiet night for the Altoona Fire Department and surrounding townships.
Altoona police spokesman Sgt. Matt Plummer said police responded to 18 motor vehicle accidents on Wednesday, but no injuries were reported.
“Heavy snowfall always makes travel difficult in Altoona due to the hills, turns and narrow streets throughout the city,” Plummer said in a digital message. “Credit is due to the Altoona Public Works Department, which worked around the clock to keep our roadways safe and clear, despite being understaffed because of the pandemic.”
Kobak Senate Minority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer of N.Y., walks on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2020. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) Pittsburgh offensive lineman Jimmy Morrissey (67) snaps the ball to quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic) Kozub Ciesielka
Ed Hofer shovels snow from the sidewalk of his Fifth Avenue home in Patton on Wednesday afternoon. The region was blanketed by snowfall from the seasonâs first major snowstorm. Mirror photo by Patrick Waksmunski
First responders and city officials appeared to have been well-prepared for winter storm Gail, and they advised residents to help each other clear snow for emergency access, be mindful of plow routes and use space heaters with caution.