A former Halfmoon Township supervisor is joining a crowded race for state representative of the 77th District, while a State College Planning Commission member is choosing not to run.

Barbara Spencer confirmed her decision yesterday to seek the Republican nomination.

"I think my chances of winning are excellent," Spencer said. "My main focus is preserving the rural integrity of the area."

Spencer, who will formally announce her campaign for the seat today, is a local farmer.

She has the endorsement of Rep. Lynn Herman, R-Centre, who will be retiring at the end of his term this year.

Charles Gable, the College Republicans adviser and a State College Planning Commission member, announced at the commission's meeting yesterday that he will not be running for Herman's seat.

Reports in the media over the past week that said he was considering running for the nomination were true, Gable said.

"After Lynn Herman dropped out of the race, several people approached me about the nomination," he said. "I was disappointed with this [planning] commission last year. I want to give my commitments due process and attention."

After deliberating over the past week, Gable said, he has decided to focus on staying local.

He said there would be plenty of opportunities for public service in the future, but he would not be pursuing any this year.

G.T. Thompson, Centre County Republicans chairman, said he spoke with Gable Tuesday.

"He gave the option full and thorough consideration," Thompson said. "It doesn't fit into his plans at this time."

He said Gable is very active with Centre County Republicans and is the Republican-area director for the State College precinct.

"I think it is very unfortunate," Vicky Cangelosi, who chairs the College Republicans, said.

"I think he would make a great candidate. A lot of the state and local officials were asking him to run. He had a lot of support around the area," she added.

Cangelosi said the group will support the candidate who wins the primary election.

Spencer will be running against local businessman Matt Shaner, 26, and Phillipsburg bus driver Ken Bailey, 62, in the state's general primary election, which will be held on May 16, for a spot in November's general election.