[naviga:h3]659 black bears harvested on 1st day[/naviga:h3]

HARRISBURG — The first day of Pennsylvania’s statewide bear season resulted in a harvest of 659 black bears, according to preliminary totals released Monday by the Pa, Game Commission.

Bears have been harvested in 49 counties thus far, including two in Butler County.

The largest taken was a 700-pound male in Oil Creek Township, Venango County.

[naviga:h3]SRU’s Martin finalist for Upshaw Award[/naviga:h3]

SLIPPERY ROCK — Slippery Rock University football standout Marcus Martin has been named one of eight national finalists for the Gene Upshaw Division II Lineman of the Year Award.

The senior defensive end is the only two-time national finalist in the field. The only other defensive lineman among the finalists is Evan Perrizo of Minnesota State. The other six are offensive linemen.

Martin led the nation with 15.5 quarterback sacks and 26.5 tackles for loss this season.

The winner of the award will be announced Nov. 29. Martin is trying to become the second SRU player to ever achieve this honor. Brandon Fusco, currently the starting right guard for the San Francisco 49ers, won it in 2010.