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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-6348ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., Defendants : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF : : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA : NO. CIVIL TERM : : CIVIL ACTION - LAW NOTICETODEFEND You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this complaint, order and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the court without further money claimed in the complaint or for any other claim or relief requested by the plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER, OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP. Cumberland County Bar Association 2 Liberty Avenue Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013 (717) 249-3166 1-800-990-9108 Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County is required by law to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. For information about accessible facilities and reasonable accommodations available to disabled individuals having business before the court, please contact our office. All arrangements must be made at least 72 hours prior to any hearing or business before the court. You must attend the scheduled conference or hearing. 2 ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., Defendants IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND C~UNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION - LAW COMPLAINT AND NOW, this 7th day of November 2001 come the plaintiffs, ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., by and through their attorneys, Irwin, McKnight & Hughes, and makes the following Complaint against the defendants, OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC. and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC. as follows: The plaintiffs are Arika Bailey Matthews and Merle E. Matthews, Jr., who are adult individuals residing at 5612 Erly Road, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania 17024. The defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc., is a Pennsylvania Corporation with a primary business location situate at 6040 Carlisle Pike, Meehanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17055. The defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., is a Pennsylvania Corporation with its primary business address located at 6295 Allentown Boulevard, #A, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17112. 3 On February 5, 2000, the plaintiff, Arika Bailey Matthews, went to the business location of Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. as a business invitee. She was returning some items she had previously purchased at the location of the business being 6040 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17040. The property is owned by defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., and is leased to defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. The plaintiff arrived at approximately 1:30 p.m. on February 5, 2000, and parked in the parking lot of the business. The plaintiffpicked up her seven (7) month old daughter and carried her along with the several remm items toward the store entrance. o As the plaintiff, Arika Bailey Matthews, approached the entrance she tripped over a ridge of ice located on the sidewalk and fell backwards onto said sidewalk. 4 area. The ice was created by water dripping from broken spouting located above the sidewalk 10. The plaintiff, Arika Bailey Matthews, was able to hold onto her child as she fell backward onto the concrete sidewalk. Her child was not injured, but Arika Matthews sustained injuries to her head, neck and back as well as her fight ann. 11. The plaintiff, Arika Bailey Matthews, lay on the pavement for nearly one-half hour prior to being transported by ambulance to Holy Spirit Hospital. 12. The plaintiff sustained a concussion to her head and bruising injuries over a large portion of her body. 13. As a result of the fail, the plaintiff, Arika Bailey Matthews, has sustained damages consisting of her lost wages and medical expenses. 14. The plaintiff also sustained injuries causing significant pain and suffering and seeks damages for pain and suffering as well as damages for any permanent injuries. 15. The plaintiff, Merle E. Matthews, Jr., seeks damages for the loss of the society of his wife, Arika Bailey Matthews, and seeks damages for said losses. The plaintiff, Merle E. Matthews, Jr., also seeks damages for the costs and expenses incurred by the fall of his wife. COUNT I ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERI,F. E. MATTHEWS, JR. v. OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC. 16. The averments of fact contained in paragraphs one (1) through fifteen (15) are hereby incorporated by reference and are made a part of this Count. 17. The defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc., was responsible for maintaining the property and for removal of any ice and snow from the sidewalks leading to its store entrance. 18. After the plaintiff, Arika Bailey Mathews, fell, the employees of the defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc., admitted that they had no salt or any other item which would either melt the ice of provide better footing over the ice. At the end of the time lying on the sidewalk, the defendant's employees spread cat litter around the plaintiff as she awaited medical attention. 19. The defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc., knew that the spouting over the sidewalk needed repair and failed to repair the spouting nor did it remove the ice being formed under the spouting. 6 20. The defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc., failed to provide for any warning cones or other warning signs of the ice formed upon the sidewalk. The most recent ice or snow storm had occurred several weeks prior to the fall of the plaintiff, Arika Bailey Matthews. 21. The defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc., was negligent in that it failed to do the following: a. Remove the ridge of ice that was forming and had formed on its sidewalk. b. Provide any warning by the use of cones or signs of the icy conditions. c. By failing to maintain and/or repair the defective spouting. d. By failing to place any ice melt or other chemical on the ridge of ice over which the plaintiff was expected to travel. e. By failing to promptly provide medical attention to assist the plaintiff following the fall. 22. The negligence of the defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc., is the proximate cause of the injuries sustained by the plaintiffs. The defendant had more than sufficient notice of the dangerous conditions and took no actions to correct it. WHEREFORE, the plaintiffs, Arika Bailey Matthews and Merle E. Matthews, Jr., seek damages against the defendant, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc., in excess of Twenty-Five Thousand and no/100 ($25,000.00) Dollars together with the costs of this action and interest as permitted by law. COUNT II ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR. v. MGB ENTERPRISES, INC. 23. The averments of fact contained in paragraphs one (1) through twenty-two (22) are hereby incorporated by reference and are made a part of this Count. 24. The defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., was responsible for maintaining the property and for removal of any ice and snow from the sidewalks leading to its store entrance. 25. After the plaintiff, Arika Bailey Mathews, fell, the employees of the defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., admitted that they had no salt or any other item which would either melt the ice of provide better footing over the ice. At the end of the time lying on the sidewalk, the defendant's employees spread cat litter around the plaintiffas she awaiting medical attention. 26. The defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., knew that the spouting over the sidewalk needed repair and failed to repair the spouting nor did it remove the ice being formed under the spouting. 27. The defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., failed to provide for any warning cones or other warning signs of the ice formed upon the sidewalk. The most recent ice or snow storm had occurred several weeks prior to the fall of the plaintiff, Arika Bailey Matthews. 28. The defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., was negligent in that it failed to do the following: a. Remove the ridge of ice that was forming and had formed on its sidewalk. b. Provide any warning by the use of cones or signs of the icy conditions. c. By failing to maintain and/or repair the defective spouting. d. By failing to place any ice melt or other chemical on the ridge of ice over which the plaintiffwas expected to travel. By failing to promptly provide medical attention to assist the plaintiff following the fall. 29. The negligence of the defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., is the proximate cause of the injuries sustained by the plaintiffs. The defendant had more than sufficient notice of the dangerous conditions and took no actions to correct it. WHEREFORE, the plaintiffs, Arika Bailey Matthews and Merle E. Matthews, Jr., seek damages against the defendant, MGB Enterprises, Inc., in excess of Twenty-Five Thousand and no/100 ($25,000.00) Dollars together with the costs of this action and interest as permitted by law. Date: November 7, 2001 By: Respectfully submitted, IRWIN, M KNIGHT HUGHES Marcus 4' Me,night, IIl,~squire 60 West Homfre e~&..~' Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013 (717) 249-2353 Supreme Court I.D. No. 25476 Attorney for plaintiffs 9 VERIFICATION The foregoing document is based upon information which has been gathered by counsel and myself in the preraration of this action. I have head the statements made in this document and they are tree and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that false statements herein made are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.A. Section 4904, relating to unswom falsification to authorities. Date: November 7, 2001 10 Karen S. Coates, Esquire Attorney I.D. if 52654 Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP 305 North Front Street P. O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 (717) 237-7121 Attorneys for Defendants ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs Vo OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., Defendants : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA : CIVIL ACTION -- LAW : NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM : : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED PRAECIPE FOR ENTRY OF APPEARANCE TO THE PROTHONOTARY: Please enter the appearance of Karen S. Coates, Esquire, and Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, as attorneys for Defendants, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. and MGB Enterprises, Inc., in the above-captioned matter, reserving our right to answer or otherwise plead to Plaintiffs' Complaint. Attorneys for Defendants, OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC. and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC. CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I hereby certify that a tree and correct copy of the foregoing document was served by depositing the same in the United States Mail, postage prepaid, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on this date, on ail counsel of record as follows: Marcus A. McKnight, IH, Esquire IRWIN, McKNIGHT & HUGHES 60 West Pomfret Street Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013 Dated: P Karea S. Coates, Esquire Aimmcy I.D # 52654 Thomas, Thomas & Hater, LLP 305 North Front Street P. O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0t,'99 (717) 237-7121 Attorneys for Defendants ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTttEWS, JR... Her Husband, Plaintift~ Vo IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COt IN'FY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION --LAW NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM OLLIE'S BARGAIN ,.,1,, LE t, IN(,., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., Defendants : JUkX; TRIAL DEMANDED NO~IcEOF INi;EN ~ TO SER~E aUBPOI!.NAS ; TO PR@DUCE DO~ [ MENI SAND ~ B1NGS ' ] Deibndants intend to serve subpoenas identical to the ones ttmt are attached to tiffs notice. You have twenty (20) days fi:om tl:e dat.~ iistcd bcJow ia whici~ fil~ to .... of record and serve upon the t,nde:sh~'~'", -,~d- an ob}eclion, to fi~e 51lbpOei'l~!. If no ob ccao~' --' , .... i~ made, fl~e si~bpoena will be served. Respectfi;!ly submitted. ~ A'l'l'_'b, EEQUIRE Attorney for Defead,_u~ts Attorney I.D. No.: 52654 Thonq::s, Thomas & Hatkr, LLP 305 North From Street P.O. 13o:.: 999 Han'isburg, PA 17108-0999 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I do hereby certify that on this day I served a true and correct copY of the foregoing document by first class mail, postage pre-paid, addressed to the following: Marcus A. McKnight, III, Esquire Irwin, McKnight & Hughes 60 West Pomfret Street Carlisle, PA 17013 Date: November 15, 2002 THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP E~a~ara Onorato, Legal Assistan~ ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION -- LAW NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM Defendants ' JURY TRIAL DEMANDED SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22 TO: Holy Spirit Hospital, 503 N. 21st Street, Camp Hill, PA 17011 Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents or things: Com lete co ies of an and all medical records medical re orts medical bills dia nostic ~:w~,t~s~..~88 ~,~o~fil~/~5C/~7Tscans and/orx-ra filmsre ardin ArikaBaile at: Thomas Thomas & Haler, LLP 305 N. Front St. P.O. Box 999 Harrisbur PA 17108- 0999. (Address) You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought. If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it. ' THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON: NAME: Karen S. Coates, Esquire ADDRESS: P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 TELEPHONE: (717) 237-7121 SUPREME COURT ID#: 52654 ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant DATE: Seal of the Court BY THECOURT: Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division Deputy ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA : : : CIVIL ACTION -- LAW : NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM : : : Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009,2~ TO: Dr. Todd Samuels, 875 Poplar Church Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011 Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents or things: Complete copies of any and all medical records, medical reports, medical bills, diagnostic, studies, notes, correspondence, MRI film~, CAT scans, and/or x-ray films regarding Arika Bailey Matthews, SSN: 208-58-9373, d/o/b: 12/25/77 at: Thomas, Thomas & Haler, LLP, 305 N. Front St., P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108 0999. (Address) You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought. If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it. THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON: NAME: Karen S. Coates, Esquire ADDRESS: P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 TELEPHONE: (717) 237-7121 SUPREME COURT ID#: 52654 ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant DATE: Seal of the Court BY THE COURT: Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division Deputy ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION ~- LAW NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTs OR THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.22 TO: Dr. Robert Michelini, 159 Center Road, New Bloomfield, PA Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents or things: Com lete co ies of an and all medical records medical re orts medical bills dia nostic studies notes cortes ondence MRI films CAT scans and/or x-ra films re ardin Arika Baile Matthews, SSN: 208-58-9373, d/o/b: 12/25/77 at: 099~.homas Thomas & Haler LLP 305 N. Front St. P.O. Box 999 Harrisbur PA 17108- (Address) You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought. If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it. THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON: NAME: Karen S. Coates, Esquire ADDRESS: P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 TELEPHONE: (717) 237-7121 SUPREME COURT ID#: 52654 ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant DATE: Seal of the Court BY THE COURT: Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division Deputy ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA : ; : CIVIL ACTION -- LAW : NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS _FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.27, TO: Medicine Shoppe 1314, 48 Red Hill Court, Newport, PA 17074 Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents or things: Corn lete co ies of an and all harmac records rescri tion notes corres ondence writin s etc. for Arika Baile Matthews SSN: 208-58-9373 d/o/b: 12/25/77 at: Thomas Thomas & Haler LLP 305 N. Front St. P.O. Box 999 Harrisbur PA 17108- 099-~'. (Address) You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought. If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it. THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON: NAME: Karen S. Coates, Esquire ADDRESS: P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 TELEPHONE: (717) 237-7121 SUPREME COURT ID#: 52654 ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant DATE: Seal of the Court BYTHECOURT: Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division Deputy Karen S. Coates, Esquire Attorney LD. # 52654 Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP 305 North Front Street P. O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 (717) 237-7121 Attorneys for Defendants ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs Vo OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., Defendants IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION -- LAW NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM JURY TRIAL DEMANDED NOTICE TO PLEAD TO: Plaintiffs Arika Bailey Matthews and Mede E. Matthews, Jr., Her Husband c/o Marcus A. McKnight, m, Esquire IRWIN, McKNIGHT & HUGHES 60 West Pomfret Street Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013 You are hereby notified that you are required to respond to the enclosed Answer with New Matter within twenty (20) days of service or a judgment may be entered against yOU. Date: >ates, EsquireX~ Attorney I.D. # 52654 305 North Front Street P.O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 (717) 237-7121 LLP Attorneys for Defendant Karen S. Coates, Esquire Attorney I.D. # 52654 Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP 305 North Front Street P. O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 (717) 237-7121 Attomeys for Defendants ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., Defendants IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION -- LAW NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM JURY TRIAL DEMANDED ANSWER TO COMPLAINT WITH NEW MATTER And now, comes Defendants Ollie's Bargain Outlet Inc. and MGB Enterprises, Inc., by and through their attorneys, Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, and file the within Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint: 1. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and proof is demanded. 2. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Defendant Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. is a Pennsylvania corporation with a business location situated at 6040 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17055. It is, however, specifically denied that the business location situate at the foregoing address is Defendant's "primary" business location and proof is demanded. 3. Admitted. 4. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted th~tt on or about February 5, 2000, Plaintiff Arika Bailey Matthews was on the premises of Ollie's Bargain Outlet at 6040 Carlisle Pike in Mechanicsburg. With respect to the allegation that Plaintiff was a "business invitee" the allegation constitutes a legal conclusion to which no response is required. By way of further answer, the remaining averments are specifically denied since after reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and proof is demanded. 5. Admitted. 6. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Plaintiff was on Defendant's premises on February 5, 2000. With respect to the time Plaintiff arrived and where Plaintiff parked, the averments are specifically denied since after reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and proof is demanded. 7. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and proof is demanded. 8. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and proof is .demanded. 9. Denied. It is specifically denied that there was any ice created by water dripping from broken spouting located above the sidewalk area on Defendants' premises on or about February 5, 2000 and proof is demanded. 10. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that Plaintiff's child was not injured while on the Defendants' premises on February 5, 2000. With respect to the remaining allegations, the averments are specifically denied since after reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and proof is demanded. 11. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the troth of the averments and proof is demanded. 12. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendants are without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments and proof is demanded. 13. Denied. The averments of paragraph 13 constitute legal conclusions to which no response is required. By way of further answer, it is specifically denied that any conduct on the part of Defendants resulted in Plaintiff's alleged fall and/or damages in the form of lost wages and medical expenses and proof is demanded. 14. Denied. The averments of paragraph 14 constitute legal conclusions to which no response is required. By way of further answer, it is specifically denied that Plaintiff Arika Matthews sustained injuries resulting in significant pain and suffering and/or permanent injuries and proof is demanded. 15. Denied. The averments of paragraph 15 constitute legal conclusions to which no response is required. By way of further answer, it is specificaily denied that Plaimiff Mede E. Matthews is entitled to damages for the loss of society of his wife, Arika Bailey Matthews, and/or the losses were the responsibility of Defendants and proof is demanded. Furthermore, it is specifically denied that Plaintiff Merle E. Matthews is entitled to damages for costs and expenses he allegedly incurred as a result of his wife's fall and proof is demanded. COUNT I Arika Bailey Matthews and Merle E. Matthews v. Ollie's Bargain Outlet~ Inc. 16. Paragraphs I to 15 of Defendants' Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint are hereby incorporated by reference. 17. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that on or about February 5, 2000, Defendant Ollie's Bargain Outlet was responsible for maintaining the property at 6040 Carlisle Pike in Mechanicsburg. It is, however, specifically denied that said responsibility required the removal of "any ice and snow from the sidewalks leading to its store entrance" and proof is demanded. By way of further answer, Defendant's obligation was to exercise reasonable care with respect to maintenance of the property and to address those conditions of which it had actual or constructive notice. It is, however, specifically denied that at any time herein mentioned, Defendant failed to fulfill its responsibility of maintaining the property and proof is demanded. 18. Admitted in part and denied in part. It is admitted that at some point on February 5, 2000, Defendant spread cat litter and non-skid material along the sidewalk. It is, however, specifically denied that Defendant and/or its employees admitted that they had no salt or any other item which would melt the alleged ice or provide better footing over the alleged ice and proof is demanded. Moreover, it is specifically denied that the non-skid material was spread "at the end of the time" Plaintiff was lying on the sidewalk as she "awaited medical attention" and proof is demanded. 19. Denied. It is specifically denied that the spouting over the sidewalk needed repair and/or that Defendant Ollie's Bargain Outlet had knowledge that such repain~ were necessary. Moreover, it is specifically denied that Defendant Ollie's Bargain Outlet knew that the spouting over the sidewalk needed repair and failed to repair the spouting and/or remove the ice being formed under the spouting and proof is demanded. Defendant specifically denies that it had notice or knowledge of any such condition and proof is demanded. 20. Denied. With respect to the averment regarding the time when ice or snow last fell in relation to Plaintiff's fall, the averment is specifically denied since after reasonable investigation, Defendant is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averment and proof is demanded. The remaining averments, with respect to the alleged failure of Defendant to provide warning cones or other signs of the ice formed upon the sidewalk is specifically denied and proof is demanded. By way of further answer, Defendant had no actual or constructive notice of the allegedly icy condition upon the sidewalk and proof is demanded. 21. Denied. The averments of paragraph 21, including subparagraphs (a) through (e) constitute legal conclusions to which no response is required. By way of further answer, it is specifically denied that Defendant OIlie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. was negligent in any manner whatsoever. Furthermore, it is specifically denied that Defendant Ollie's Bargain Outlet was negligent in that it failed to do the following: (a) Remove the ridge of ice that was forming and had formed on its sidewalk and proof is demanded; (b) Provide any warning by the use of cones of sign.,; of the icy conditions and proof is demanded; (c) Failing to maintain and/or repair the defective spouting and proof is demanded; (d) Failing to place any ice melt or other chemical on the ridge of ice over which the Plaintiff was expected to travel and proof is demanded; (e) Failing to promptly provide medical attention to assist the Plaintiff following the fall and proof is demanded. 22. Denied. The averments of paragraph 22 constitute legal conclusions to which no response is required. By way of further answer, it is specifically denied that Defendant Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. was negligent in any manner whatsoever. Furthermore, it is specifically denied that any conduct on the part of Defendant Ollie's Bargain Outlet was the proximate cause of the injuries sustained by the Plaintiffs and proof is demanded. Finally, it is specifically denied that any dangerous condition existed on Defendant's premises and/or that Defendant had notice of any such condition and unreasonably failed to take action to correct it and proof is demanded. WHEREFORE, Defendant Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. requests that this Court enter judgment it in its favor and against Plaintiffs Arika Bailey Matthews and Merle E. Matthews together with costs of suit. COUNT II ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHES~ JR. V. MGB ENTERPRISES~ INC. 23. Paragraphs 1 to 22 of Defendants' Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint are hereby incorporated by reference. 24. Denied. The averments of paragraph 24 constitute legal conclusions to which no response is required. By way of further answer, the averments are specifically denied and proof is demanded. 25. Denied. It is specifically denied that any employees of Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. were on the premises at the time of PlaintifFs fall. Accordingly, the remaining: averments are specifically denied and proof is demanded. 26. Denied. It is specifically denied that Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. was responsible for maintaining the property at the time of the aforementioned incident and proof is demanded. Moreover, it is specifically that the spouting over the sidewalk needed repair and/or that Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. had knowledge that such repairs were necessary and proof is demanded. Furthermore, it is specifically denied that there was any ice formed under the spouting and/or that Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. had notice of any such condition and proof is deman.ded. 27. Denied. With respect to the averment regarding the time when ice or snow last fell, in relation to Plaintiff's fall, the averments are specifically denied since after reasonable investigation, Defendant is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the troth of the averment and proof is demanded. The remaining averments are specifically denied and proof is demanded. By way of further answer, Defendant did not have actual or constructive notice of the allegedly icy condition upon the sidewalk and proof is demanded. 28. Denied. The averments of paragraph 21, including subparagraphs (a) through (e) constitute legal conclusions to which no response is required. By way of further ~mswer, it is specifically denied that Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. was negligent in any manner whatsoever. Furthermore, it is specifically denied that Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. was negligent in that it failed to do the following: (a) (b) Remove the ridge of ice that was forming and had fl)rmed on its sidewalk and proof is demanded; Provide any warning by the use of cones of signs of the icy conditions and proof is demanded; (c) (d) (e) Failing to maintain and/or repair the defective spouting and proof is demanded; Failing to place any ice melt or other chemical on the ridge of ice over which the plaintiff was expected to travel and proof is demanded; Failing to promptly provide medical attention to assist the plaintiff following the fall and proof is demanded. 29. Denied. The averments of paragraph 29 constitute legal conclusions to which no response is required. By way of further answer, it is specifically denied that Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. was negligent in any manner whatsoever. Furthermore, it is specifically denied that any conduct on the part of Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. was the proximate cause of the injuries sustained by the Plaintiffs and proof is demanded. Finally, it is specifically denied that any dangerous condition existed on Defendant's premises and/or that Defendant had any notice of any such condition and somehow unreasonably failed to take action to correct it and proof is demanded. WHEREFORE, Defendant MGB Enterprises, Inc. requests that this Court enter judgment it in its favor and against Plaintiffs Arika Bailey Matthews and Merle E. Matthews together with costs of suit. NEW MATTER 30. Paragraphs 1 to 29 of Defendants' Answer to Plaintiffs' Complaint are hereby incorporated by reference. 31. Plaintiffs' claims are barred by the statute of limitations. 32. Plaintiffs' cause of action is barred by the contributory negligence of Plaintiff Arika Bailey Matthews. 33. The provisions of the Pennsylvania Comparative Negligence Act apply in this case to limit or bar Plaintiffs' cause of action. 34. Plaintiff assumed the risk of her conduct. 35. Plaintiffs' complaint must be dismissed for lack of actual and/or constructive notice to Defendants of any allegedly dangerous condition existing on their pre, mises on or about February 5, 2000. 36. Any acts of omissions of Defendants Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. and MGB Enterprises, Inc. were not substantial, causative factors of the alleged incident and/or did not result in the losses, expenses and damages alleged by the Plaintiffs. 37. The injuries and damages allegedly sustained by Plaintiffs were caused by the negligence and carelessness of Plaintiff Afika Bailey Matthews as follows: (a) Failing to watch where she was walking; (b) Failing to maintain a proper lookout; (c) Failing to use due caution and care under the circumstances, including failure to observe an open and obvious condition; (d) Failing to discovery and/or observe the aileged detect and/or the allegedly dangerous condition; (e) (f) (g) (h) Failing to take precaution to avoid injury; Failing to take an alternative route which was available to her, which would have provided a safe means of access; Failing to request assistance and/or failing to leave the sidewalk and go to an area where no allegedly dangerous condition existed, when there was such an area available to Plaintiff; Failing to exercise reasonable care for her own safety. 38. On or about February 5, 2000, there were no dangerous or defective conditions existing on Defendants' premises. 39. If, in fact, there was any dangerous and/or defective condition on Defendants' premises on or about February 5, 2000, said condition was open and obvious to persons exercising reasonable care for their own safety. 40. Defendants are entitled to a credit for any and all medical payments made to or on behalf of Plaintiff Arika Bailey Matthews, arising out of the aforementioned incident, including but not limited to $5,397.45. WHEREFORE, Defendants, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. and MGB Enterprises, Inc. request that this Court enter judgment it in their favor and against Plaintiffs Arika Bailey Matthews and Merle E. Matthews together with costs of suit. Respectfully submitted, ~ ~ afer LLP )ATES, ESQUIRE Attorney for Defendants Attorney I.D. No.: 52654 Thomas, Thomas & Haler, LLP 305 North Front Street P.O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 VERIFICATION I, ])~ltd) ~ ¢~C~Q ., an authorized representative of MGB Enterprises, Inc., Defendant in this action, do hereby verify that the statements made in the foregoing ANSWER TO COMPLAINT WITH NEW MATTER are true and con'ect to the best of my knowledge, information mid belief. I understand that false statements made herein are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S.A. 4904 relating to unswom falsification to authorities. Date: ](fl~V~ /~ ,2002 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE_ I do hereby certify that on this day I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing document by first class mail, postage pre-paid, addressed to the following: Marcus A. McKnight, III, Esquire Irwin, McKnight & Hughes 60 West Pomfret Street Carlisle, PA 17013 Date: 2O02 12 Karen S. Coates, Esquire Attorney I.D. # 52654 Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP 305 North From Street P. O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 (717) 237-7121 Attorneys for Defendants ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., Defendants : IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA : CIVIL ACTION -- LAW : NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM . : : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED As a prerequisite to service of subpoenas for documents and things pursuant to Rule 4009.22, Defendant certifies that: (1) A notice of intent to serve the subpoena with a copy of the subpoenas attached thereto was mailed or delivered to each party at least twenty days prior to the date on which the subpoena is sought to be served. (2) A copy of the notice of intern, including the proposed subpoena, is attached to this certificate. (3) Marcus A. McKnight, III, Attomey for the Plaintiff, has waived the twenty day role. 4) The subpoenas which will be served are identical to the subpoena which are attached to the notice of intent to serve the subpoena. Respectfully submitted, Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP KAREN S. COATES, ESQUIRE Attorney fi>r Defendants Attorney I.D. No.: 52654 Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP 305 North Front Street P.O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I do hereby certify that on this day I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing document by first class mail, postage pre-paid, addressed to the following: Marcus A. McKnight, III, Esquire Irwin, McKnight & Hughes 60 West Pomfret Street Carlisle, PA 17013 Date: December 10, 2002 THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP Barbara Onorato, Legal Assistant Karen S. Coates, Esquire Attorney I,D. # 52654 Thomas. Thomas & HalEr. LLP 305 North Front Street P. O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108-0,q99 (717) 237-7121 Attomeys for Defendants ARIKA B ; ' ALLEY MAITHES~ S and MERJ, E E. MATTtlEWS, JR... H.r Husband, PlaintifI2 IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COL~'['Y. PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION -.- LAW NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM OLLIE'S BARGAIN OU I LE t, 1NC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, [NC., Defendants JUK¥ TRIAL DEIvlANDED N TICE OF INTENT TO SERVE SUBPOENAS TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS AND TI]INGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSU.~uNT TO RULE 4009,21 Defendants intend to serve subpoenas identical to the ones tlmr are attached to this notice. You have twenty (20) days fi'mn tl:e date ii,ted beJow i,~ which '~o ;t~ ,- ._ f,..- ofreccrd m~d serve upon the tmdersigned an objection to ;.he subpc, e;~:~. 11' no objection is made, the s'abpoena will be served. Respectfi'dly submi~ed. j 7b'l Attorney for Defendants Attorney 1.1,9. No.: 52654 Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP 305 Nmxh Front Slreet P.O. Box 999 HmMsbm'g, PA 17108-0999 CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I do hereby certify that on this day I served a true and correct copy of the foregoing document by first class mail, postage pre-paid, addressed to the following: Marcus A. McKnight, III, Esquire Irwin, McKnight & Hughes 60 West Pomfret Street Carlisle, PA 17013 Date: November 15, 2002 THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP Barbara Onorato, Legal Assistant ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA : .. : CIVIL ACTION -- LAW : NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM : : Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS .FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.~¢ TO: Holy Spirit Hospital, 503 N. 21st Street, Camp Hill, PA. 17011 Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents or things: Complete copies of any and all medical records, medical reports, medical bills, diagnostic: studies, notes, correspondence, MRI films, CAT scans, and/or x-ray filrn~ regarding Afika Bailey Matthews. SSN: 208-58-9373, d/o/b: 12/25/77 - at: Thomas, Thomas & Haler, LLP 305 N. Front St., P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108 0999. ' (Address) You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought. If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it. THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON: NAME: Karen S. Coates, Esquire ADDRESS: P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 TELEPHONE: (717) 237-7121 SUPREME COURT ID#: 52654 ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant DATE: Seal of the Com't BY THE COURT: Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division Deputy ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION -- LAW NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM Defendants : JURY TRIAL, DEMANDED SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.27 TO: Dr. Todd Samuels, 875 Poplar Church Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011 Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents or things: Complete copies of any and all medical records, medical reports, medical bills, diagnosti{.: studies, notes, correspondence, MRI films, CAT scans, and/or x-ray films regarding Arika Bailey Matthews, SSN: 208-58-9373, d/o/b: 12/25/77 at: .Thomas, Thoma~ & Hafer, LLP, 305 N. Front St., P.O Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108 0999. (Address) You may deliver or mall legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought. If you fall to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it. THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON: NAME: Karen S. Coates, Esquire ADDRESS: P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 TELEPHONE: (717) 237-7121 SUPREME COURT ID#: 52654 ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant DATE: Seal of the Court BY THE COURT: Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division Deputy ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL ACTION -- LAW NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM Defendants : JURY TRIAL. DEMANDED SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.2 ~, TO: Dr. Robert Michelini, 159 Center Road, New Bloomfield, PA Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents or things: Com lete co ies of an and all medical records medical re orts medical bills dia nostia studies notes cortes ondence MRI films CAT scans and/or x-fa films re ardin Arika Balle Matthews, SSN' 20. -8 58.9373, d/o/b: 12/25/77 at: ~, LLP 305 N. Front St., P.O. Box 999 Harrisbur PA (Address) You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or prOducing the things sought. If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek .a court order compelling you to comply with it. THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON: NAME: Karen S. Coates, Esquire ADDRESS: P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 TELEPHONE: (717) 237-7121 SUPREME COURT ID#: 52654 ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant DATE: Seal of the Court BY THE COURT: Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division Deputy ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., Her Husband, Plaintiffs OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., : IN THE COUiRT OF COMMON PLEAS OF : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA : : · CIVIL ACTION -- LAW : NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM : : : Defendants : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED SUBPOENA TO PRODUCE DOCUMENTS OR THINGS FOR DISCOVERY PURSUANT TO RULE 4009.27, TO: Medicine Shoppe 1314, 48 Red Hill Court, Newport, PA 17074 Within twenty (20) days after service of this subpoena, you are ordered by the court to produce the following documents or things: Complete copies of any and all pharmacy records, prescription notes, correspondence, writings, etc. for Afika Bailey Matthews, SSN: 208-58-9373. d/o/b: 12/:25/77 at: Thomas, Thomas & Haler, LLP, 305 N. Front St., P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108 0999. (Address) You may deliver or mail legible copies of the documents or produce things requested by this subpoena, together with the certificate of compliance, to the party making this request at the address listed above. You have the right to seek in advance, the reasonable cost of preparing the copies or producing the things sought. If you fail to produce the documents or things required by this subpoena, within twenty (20) days after its service, the party serving this subpoena may seek a court order compelling you to comply with it. THIS SUBPOENA WAS ISSUED AT THE REQUEST OF THE FOLLOWING PERSON: NAME: Karen S. Coates, Esquire ADDRESS: P.O. Box 999, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 TELEPHONE: (717) 237-7121 SUPREME COURT ID#: 52654 ATTORNEY FOR: Defendant DATE: Seal of the Court BY THE COURT: Prothonotary/Clerk, Civil Division Deputy ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWS and MERLE E. MATTHEWS, JR., PLAINTIFFS Vo OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., DEFENDANTS : IN THE COURT OF' COMMON PLEAS OF : CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA : NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM : CIVIL ACTION - LAW PRAECIPE TO SETTLE AND DISCONTINUE To Curtis R. Long, Prothonotary: Please mark the above-captioned case settled and discontinued and issue a Settlement Esquire, at 60 West Pomfret Street, Carlisle, Certificate to Marcus A. McKnight, III, Pennsylvania 17013. By: Respectfully submiitted, 60 West Pomfret Street Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013 (717) 249-2353 Date: September 30, 2004 ARIKA BAILEY MATTHEWs and MERLE E. MATTHEws, JR., PLAINTIFFS OLLIE'S BARGAIN OUTLET, INC., and MGB ENTERPRISES, INC., DEFENDANTS IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA NO. 01-6348 CIVIL TERM CIVIL ACTION - LAW C~ERTIFICATE OF SERVICI~ I, Marcus A. McKnight,/~I, Esquire, hereby certify that a copy of attached Praecipe to Settle and Discontinue was served upon the following by depositing a true and correct copy of the same in the United States mail, First Class, postage prepaid in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on the date referenced below and addressed as follows: Stephen E. Geduldig, Esq. Thomas, Thomas & Hafer 305 North Front Street P. O. Box 999 Harrisburg, PA 17108 Date: September 30, 2004 By: 60 West Pomfret Street Carlisle, PA 17013 (717) 249-2353 Supreme Court I.D. No. 25476