Capitol Update by Rep. Martin Causer

Facebook Website Bio Latest News State Forms Photo Gallery Contact Capitol Update Friday, March 22, 2019 The latest news from the State Capitol Protecting Our Constitutional Rights I’ve been hearing from a lot of area residents concerned about a gun control bill introduced in the state House earlier this month by some Philadelphia-area Democrats. House Bill 768 would create a state firearms registry AND charge law-abiding gun owners a $10 fee per firearm per year. This bill is ridiculous and clearly unconstitutional. I will always vote to protect and defend our constitutional rights. WIVB in Buffalo called me last week to ask my thoughts on the bill. Watch the report here.  If you’d like to show your support for our Second Amendment, mark your calendar and join us for a rally in the Capitol Rotunda on Monday, May 6, at 10 a.m. This annual event draws people from every corner of the Commonwealth.   Potter County Conservation District Annual Luncheon

It is always a pleasure to take part in the Potter County Conservation District’s annual legislative luncheon. The district staff do a great job on a wide variety of conservation projects across the county. During the meeting, we discussed a number of state issues, including budget funding for conservation districts statewide. We also discussed the importance of keeping the impact fee in place rather than imposing a severance tax on natural gas drilling, as many of the conservation district’s successful projects are funded by impact fee proceeds. We need that money to stay local rather than going back to Harrisburg.

Meeting with Area FFA Students

It was great to see Headwaters FFA students from Northern Potter High School at the annual FFA breakfast in Harrisburg earlier this week. This is a great organization that helps prepare our kids to succeed both personally and professionally...and we hope to see many of them carrying on the great traditions of Pennsylvania agriculture! We are pictured with Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, PA State Rep. Clint Owlett and Adviser Lacey Miles.

A Closer Look at the PA Farm Bill   Click here to watch my questioning of Ag Secretary Russell Redding about the PA Dairy Investment Program. A comprehensive, $24 million PA Farm Bill proposed by the Wolf Administration was the focus of a joint House and Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee hearing on Wednesday at the state Capitol. As chairman of the House committee, I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the plan from Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. We all agree the additional focus being placed on our state’s top industry is warranted. Agriculture is a vital contributor to our economy with a more than $135 billion annual economic impact and 580,000 direct and indirect jobs. But it’s also clear we need to assess the costs and benefits of the governor’s plan and prioritize the elements that could make a definitive difference for our farmers across the state. During the hearing, I questioned Secretary Redding about the call for an additional $5 million for the Dairy Investment Program -- certainly a worthwhile program -- when the $5 million we put toward that program as part of last year’s budget still has not been distributed by the Wolf Administration. Dairy producers are struggling to stay afloat, and grants that could help them are being held up by bureaucracy. I also expressed concern about the price tag of the overall proposal and the governor’s decision to eliminate funding from his budget plan for several proven programs in the Department of Agriculture, including funding for hardwoods research and development. Several committee members raised concerns about another element of the proposal to provide $1.6 million in funding for a PA Preferred Organic Initiative to make the Commonwealth the nation’s leading organic state. Many of us have heard from non-organic farmers concerned that the plan would pit different types of farmers against one another or put them at a competitive disadvantage. It’s still not entirely clear how the administration would address those concerns if the program was implemented. One of the most important parts of the plan I have supported and that received praise during the hearing from other members is the effort to strengthen our ag workforce for current and future generations. This is vital to ensure our Commonwealth’s agriculture industry continues to grow and evolve for years to come. To watch the hearing, click here.

Mark Your Calendars for These April Events! Kane Veterans Service Hours Monday, April 1, 1-4 p.m. at Kane office, 55 Fraley St. Meet with a veterans service representative with the American Legion for assistance with issues such as compensation, education, pension, health care and death benefits. Please call 814-837-0880 to schedule an appointment. Veterans Service Hours, Coudersport – Thursday, April 4, Coudersport Veterans Service Hours Thursday, April 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Coudersport office, 107 S. Main St. Meet with a veterans service representative with the American Legion for assistance with issues such as compensation, education, pension, health care and death benefits. Please call 814-274-9769 to schedule an appointment. Cameron County Town Hall Meeting Thursday, April 4, 6 p.m., Emporium Fire Hall, 419 N. Broad St. Join me for an update of issues we are addressing in Harrisburg, including the state budget, jobs and workforce development, protecting the Second Amendment and more. I look forward to hearing your feedback and answering your questions. Bradford Veterans Service Hours Monday, April 8, 1-4 p.m. at Bradford office, 78 Main St. Meet with a veterans service representative with the American Legion for assistance with issues such as compensation, education, pension, health care and death benefits. Please call 814-362-4400 to schedule an appointment. McKean County Veteran Resource and Job Fair Tuesday, April 9, from 2-7 p.m. at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Tom L. McDowell Fieldhouse, 300 Campus Drive, Bradford. Veterans and their families are invited to attend a FREE one-stop shop to learn about VA services and community resources at this event hosted by the McKean County Community Veteran Engagement Board.

Setting Up Students for Career Success Working to ensure Pennsylvania students have a diverse array of career paths from which to choose, the state House overwhelmingly approved a bipartisan package of bills designed to boost career and technical education (CTE) at schools across the Commonwealth. The initiatives are a cornerstone of the House Republican Caucus’ #GoodJobs4PA initiative aimed at ensuring all Pennsylvanians have access to good-paying jobs and careers. To help students plot their path to success, there are bills that would allow technical schools to recruit students like colleges do; make it easier for students to see where credits transfer; create a database of workforce development programs at secondary and post-secondary institutions; create an online career resource center; and allow students who complete classes in STEM education to apply the credits to a course through a vocational-technical school, technical institution or vocational school. The package is also aimed at improving business and education partnerships by creating a CTE investment incentive program, requiring CTE programs to establish advisory committees and having at least once administrator from a CTE center on each of the state’s Workforce Development Boards. The bills now go to the Senate for consideration. Learn more about #GoodJobs4PA here.

House Action for the Week of March 25, 2019

House Sends Workforce Package to Senate

The bipartisan package of workforce development bills is now on its way to the state Senate. Over the last two weeks the House passed more than a dozen bills with overwhelming bipartisan support designed to increase access to specialized training so more Pennsylvanians can move beyond minimum wage jobs and into family sustaining careers. House members will hold a press conference Monday, March 25, at 2:30 p.m. in the Main Rotunda to highlight these efforts and talk about what is next for the House.

Live web streams of House session and the majority of committee meetings are available at PAHouseGOP.com. Important information and events may also be viewed by visiting Facebook.com/PAHouseGOP.

The Weekly Schedule

PUC Hosts ‘Smart Hearings’ to Gather Public Input Regarding $71 Million UGI Natural Gas Rate Increase Request

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) will host two online “Smart Hearings” to gather utility customer opinions on a proposed $71.1 million rate increase request by UGI Utilities Inc. – Gas Division (UGI).

Smart Hearings enable residents throughout Pennsylvania to see, hear and participate in the hearing without the need to travel in order to attend the hearings in person. During Smart Hearings, concerned individuals will be able to offer their testimony or comments by telephone, from any convenient location, to be included in the live Internet stream. UGI ratepayers may appear in person for those who prefer to attend the hearing.

PUC Administrative Law Judges Dennis J. Buckley and Benjamin J. Myers will conduct the Smart Hearings, which will be live-streamed on the PUC website and will include both telephone and in-person testimony:

Monday, April 22, 2019
1 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Hearing Room 1
Commonwealth Keystone Building
400 North St.
Harrisburg, PA 17120

Participation in the Smart Hearings may be in person (at the Harrisburg site) or by telephone (from any location). In-person participation requires no further action. Participation by telephone requires that interested persons contact the Office of Administrative Law Judge (OALJ) by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17, 2019, to provide their names, telephone numbers, and the topics of their testimony. They may call the OALJ at 717-787-1399 to register.

If you are a person with a disability, and you wish to attend the hearing, we may be able to make arrangements for your special needs. Please contact the OALJ scheduling office at least three (3) business days prior to your hearing to submit your request.

• OALJ Scheduling Office: 717-787-1399
• Relay Service number for persons who are deaf or hearing-impaired: 1-800-654-5988

UGI Rate Increase Request

Under the UGI request, which would create uniform rates by rate classes across the utility’s three rate districts – UGI Gas South, UGI Gas North and UGI Central – the average monthly bill for a residential heating customer in the South district would increase from $62.45 to $72.93, an increase of $10.48 or 16.8 percent; the average monthly bill for a residential heating customer in the North district would increase from $89.72 to $97.37, an increase of $7.65 or 8.5 percent; and the average monthly bill for a residential heating customer in the Central district would decrease from $93.68 to $85.91, a reduction of $7.77 or 8.3 percent reduction.

Additionally, the UGI proposal would extend the current temporary federal tax credit on customer bills for a 12-month period, beginning on the effective day of new rates, which would reduce the distribution rate portion of customer bills by 4.5 percent during that 12-month period.

A final Commission decision on the UGI request is due by October 29, 2019.

UGI provides service to nearly 390,000 customers in Eastern and Central Pennsylvania. On Feb. 28, 2019, the Commission voted unanimously to investigate the company’s request for a $71.1 million (8.9 percent) increase in annual revenues.

Offering Comment at a Hearing

Members of the public are welcome to attend the hearings and provide comments. Their testimony will become part of the record on which the PUC will issue its final decision.

The PUC and Office of Consumer Advocate offer tips on how to participate, including:

Prepare what you are going to say beforehand. Even though it is not required, you may want to write out your statement, which can be read.
Bring copies of your statement, if you are attending an in-person hearing. If you have a written statement you would like to give to the judge, please bring two copies for the court reporter and several copies for the other participants.

Understand that parties in the case may want to ask you a question to clarify something you said.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC’s website at www.puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the “Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission” or “PA PUC” on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

Middlebury/Nelson Dispatched For Burn Victim In Farmington Township

At 1:32 PM on Friday, Middlebury & Nelson have been dispatched to 320 Howe Hill Road in Farmington Township for a burn victim as a result of oxygen catching fire.

Lafayette Dispatched To Crash at Rt. 59/Rt. 219

At 1:02 PM on Friday, Lafayette Fire Rescue & City Ambulance have been dispatched to Rt. 59 & Rt. 219 for a 2 vehicle crash.

Alfred Dispatched To PIckup Truck Crash On County Road 12

At 12:54 PM on Friday, Fire & EMS have been dispatched to a pickup truck into a tree at 5500 County Road 12 in Alfred Station. Reporting 2 adults & infant self-extricated.

Bless The Allegheny/Ohi:yo' River Ceremony Today at CARP at 5:30 PM

Shinglehouse Ambulance to Tennessee Road

At 12:25 PM on Friday, Shinglehouse Ambulance has been dispatched to Tennessee Road in Hebron Township for back pain.

Monday March 25 is the last day to pre-register for the April 6th S.W. Smith Memorial Public Library Building Fun(d) 5K Run/Walk

Attention students 21 and under: Monday March 25 is the last day to pre-register for the April 6th S.W. Smith Memorial Public Library Building Fun(d) 5K Run/Walk at the special student rate of $10. 

Starting March 26 the rate will be $20. 

Registration forms can be picked up at the library, Port Freeze, Port Pharmacy, and JVB Mill Street Branch. The library is open 9-4 on Friday, Saturday, and Monday to accept your pre-registration forms. Thank you, students!

Headline Harrisburg by Rep. Matt Gabler

Facebook Website Bio Latest News State Forms Photo Gallery Contact

Headline Harrisburg Friday, March 22, 2019 The latest news from the State Capitol  This email includes: My Thoughts on the Gun Registry Legislation Setting Up Students for Career Success New License Plate Options for PA Veterans Holding Public Officials and Employees to a Higher Standard   DEP Starts Statewide Surveillance of Ticks   My Thoughts on the Gun Registry Legislation Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me regarding House Bill 768, legislation which would require our citizens to register their firearms with the Pennsylvania State Police and pay an annual fee. This proposal runs counter to the individual liberties that I believe are rightly guaranteed by the US and Pennsylvania Constitutions. Please know I am staunchly opposed to this proposal, and I will vote against it in the unlikely case it ever comes to the floor. Similar legislation has been introduced in several prior sessions, and we have consistently prevented it from moving forward each time. I remain convinced that this proposal would only penalize law-abiding citizens while criminals will find ways to ignore the law anyway. I sincerely appreciate the excellent feedback I am receiving from my constituents on this proposal. Please know I stand strongly with you.   Setting Up Students for Career Success Working to ensure Pennsylvania students have a diverse array of career paths from which to choose, the state House overwhelmingly approved a bipartisan package of bills designed to boost career and technical education (CTE) at schools across the Commonwealth. The initiatives are a cornerstone of the House Republican Caucus’ #GoodJobs4PA initiative aimed at ensuring all Pennsylvanians have access to good-paying jobs and careers. To help students plot their path to success, there are bills that would allow technical schools to recruit students like colleges do; make it easier for students to see where credits transfer; create a database of workforce development programs at secondary and post-secondary institutions; create an online career resource center; and allow students who complete classes in STEM education to apply the credits to a course through a vocational-technical school, technical institution or vocational school. The package is also aimed at improving business and education partnerships by creating a CTE investment incentive program, requiring CTE programs to establish advisory committees and having at least once administrator from a CTE center on each of the state’s Workforce Development Boards. The bills now go to the Senate for consideration. Learn more about #GoodJobs4PA here.   New License Plate Options for PA Veterans PennDOT is adding several new license plates to its collection honoring veterans and their service to our country. The Honoring Our Women Veterans registration plate costs $35, of which $15 goes to the Veterans Trust Fund to be used for programs and resources that assist women veterans. The Soldiers Medal, Presidential Service Badge and Legion of Merit registration plates each recognize veterans’ specific contributions during their service. These plates are available for a fee of $20. Veterans must be able to show that they are recipients of the respective awards. Veterans from other countries can apply for a Veterans of an Allied Foreign Country registration plate, also available for a fee of $20. The above plates may only be used on passenger vehicles and trucks with a registered gross weight of not more than 14,000 pounds. Motorcycle owners can now get the Purple Heart Medal Motorcycle registration plate, which displays the words “Combat Wounded Veteran” across the bottom of the registration plate. To get the plate, applicants must be able to prove they received a Purple Heart Medal and pay the $11 fee. Another new plate is the Historic Military Vehicle registration plate, which is available for antique or classic vehicles manufactured for use in any country’s military forces. The vehicles must be maintained to represent their original military design and markings. This plate is available for both historic military vehicles and historic military motorcycles for $75. For more information about plates for veterans and applying for these plates, click here.   Holding Public Officials and Employees to a Higher Standard The House this week gave overwhelming approval to a bill that would ensure public officials or employees who commit felony crimes related to their jobs will not collect a taxpayer-funded pension. Senate Bill 113 would expand the types of convictions that require officials or employees to forfeit their pensions to include any felony conviction, guilty plea or no contest plea related to an official’s job. The measure would also put a stop to the practice of a person pleading guilty to lesser crimes to avoid losing their pension and closes several other loopholes that have been exploited by officials to continue to collect pensions from the state after breaking the law and violating the public trust. The bill is now on its way to the governor for his signature.   DEP Starts Statewide Surveillance of Ticks The Department of Environmental Protection is beginning a five-year environmental surveillance of ticks to assess the risk of tickborne illnesses across Pennsylvania. The study is taking place in every county in Pennsylvania to track ticks’ habitats, life stages and peak activity levels and to test them for human pathogenic diseases. The surveillance will focus on collecting three tick species: the blacklegged tick in its immature nymphal stage, when it most often infects humans with Lyme disease, as well as human babesiosis and human granulocytic anaplasmosis; the adult American dog (Dermacentor variabilis) tick, which transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia; and the adult lone star (Amblyomma americanum) tick, which transmits ehrlichiosis and tularemia. The project is being funded through the Department of Health.

Causer to Host Veterans Service Representative

BRADFORD – In an effort to ensure area veterans receive the services and support they need, Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) is hosting Melissa Davis, a veterans service representative from the American Legion, at his local offices in April.

The schedule is as follows:

• Kane: Monday, April 1, from 1-4 p.m. The Kane office is located at 55 Fraley St. Please call 814-837-0880 to schedule an appointment.
• Coudersport: Thursday, April 4, from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The Coudersport office is located at 107 S. Main St. Please call 814-274-9769 to schedule an appointment.
• Bradford: Monday, April 8, from 1-4 p.m. The Bradford office is located at 78 Main St., first floor. Please call 814-362-4400 to schedule an appointment.

Davis will offer veterans assistance with issues such as compensation, education, pension, health care and death benefits. Veterans need not be a member of the American Legion to participate.

Coudersport Ambulance to Rt. 44

At 11:22 AM on Friday, Coudersport Ambulance has been dispatched to Rt. 44 in Hebron Township for a person to go to UPMC Cole.

Part-Time Per Diem LPN & RN Wanted At Lakeview Health Care & Rehabilitation Center in Smethport, PA

Check out all that North Central Supply in Galeton, PA has to offer

 Winter hours: Tuesday - Friday 10:00-4:00, Saturday..9:00-3:00

Located at 25 West Street, Galeton, PA

300 Club & Giant Sportsman's Raffle Tickets Available Now at Coudersport Consistory

Cast Away Charters Now Booking 2019 Fishing Trips on Lake Erie Starting May 3rd

JVB Seeking A Part-time Teller For Lillibridge Office in Port Allegany

Hamilton's Maple Products & Pancake House Open For Breakfast Sat. & Sun.

Roulette Fish & Game Club Stocking Streams Saturday; Come & Help or Just Watch

Big Selection of Used Vehicles at Bokman of Wellsville, NY

Think About It

Waiting On God
By Pastor B.J. Knefley

We as a people are very impatient. Our lives are run by the clock and technology to keep things running smoothly. Fast food restaurants dot our landscape and even those restaurants that cater to the dinner crowd seem to push quick turnover. It used to be that good food was meant to be waited upon. We hate lines, waiting for lights to change, and commercials to end so the game will come back on. I have observed people watching the traffic light for the opposing traffic awaiting their yellow light so that they can be ready for their green. It reminds me of the dragster at the drag strip watching the lights awaiting the signal to go.

Our impatience with God is much like the rest of our lives. We expect that because we have asked that the answers should be forth coming. But our impatience often causes us some of greatest problems. When we rush ahead of God, we often fall prey to much heartache and distress which wouldn’t have been necessary if we’d only waited. But waiting is what we all must learn to do. Think about it for a moment of all the things that we have to wait for. We wait for fruit to ripen, crops to grow and mature, but sometimes God is waiting on us.

Many of God’s answers are conditional. The answers come in response to our doing, but we often don’t want to do it, or we don’t understand how our actions are delaying God’s response. Abraham you may remember was called by God to go into the land that God would show him. Along with this was God’s promise to bless him. But none of this was going to happen without Abraham going, (Genesis 12). Jesus healed ten lepers and he told them to go and show themselves to the priest, and “as they went, they were cleansed”, (Luke 17:14). Had they not gone, they would not have received the healing. It makes me wonder how many times people who say that they are waiting upon God are actually in a situation where God is waiting upon them. Sometimes the reason we’re still waiting is because we afraid to move forward, to take that first step. Does that describe you? Think about it.

Coudersport Ambulance To East Second Street

At 9:10 PM on Thursday, Coudersport Ambulance has been dispatched to East Second Street for seizures & unresponsive.

Port Allegany Dispatched for Possible Carbon Monoxide

At 8:35 PM on Thursday, Port Allegany Fire Department has been dispatched to 110 1/2 Harrison Street for a possible carbon monoxide event.

Black Forest Trap Team Week 2

The Black Forest youth trap team held its second meet of the season. The team competed against Otto Eldred. The Falcons fell to Otto Eldred. The score was 177 to 169 losing by just 8 birds! While the Falcons were unable to win the match they saw some personal victories as a team. First, our team’s score was the highest it has been in the three years we have competed! Second, this is the first time that our top eight scores were 20 or higher. There were two additional shooters that scored 20 as well. That is 10 shooters that shot 20 or more, one- fourth of our team! 

The Falcons top shooters this week were:
Devin Burdick (NOPO) -23
Logan Hafer ( Coudy) -22
Jake Cochran ( Galeton)-21
Otto Deutschlander ( Coudy)-21
Lance Goodwin ( Coudy)-21
Ben Torrey(NOPO)-21
Owen Deutsclander (Coudy)-20
Reese Gabreski ( Coudy) -20

Loren Fitzgerald stated that “Overall it’s the best we’ve shot in our short history. All of our shooters are progressing at a fast pace.”

We are looking forward to our last home match against Portville next week. The match will be held at the Black Forest Shooting Club on Tuesday, March 26, 2019. Matches usually start between 4:30 and 5:00. If interested, come on out and see what this new exciting sport is all about.

Eugene "Gene" Gigliotti, 92, of 10 Chamberlain Avenue, Bradford, PA

Eugene "Gene" Gigliotti

Eugene "Gene" Gigliotti, 92, of 10 Chamberlain Avenue, Bradford, PA, passed away Thursday, March 21, 2019, at Bradford Manor.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

JoAnn Pickering, 76, of 111 W. Long Ave., Apt #5L, DuBois, PA formerly of Driftwood, PA

JoAnn Pickering

JoAnn Pickering, 76, of 111 W. Long Ave., Apt #5L, DuBois, PA formerly of Driftwood, PA died at Penn Highlands DuBois, DuBois, PA on Thursday morning (March 21, 2019).

She was born March 10, 1943 in Ridgway, PA a daughter of the late Theodore and Meridith Barr Predko. On June 18, 1966 in Ridgway, PA she married Norman G. Pickering, Sr., who survives.

She graduated from Ridgway High School in the class of 1961. She retired from GKN in Emporium where she had worked for many years. She enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

In addition to her husband Norman she is survived by a daughter, Pamela (Kevin) Irwin, Emporium; one son, Norman "Gene" Pickering, Jr., Knox, PA; two grandchildren: Logan and Cameron Irwin; two sisters, Nancy Anderegg, East Brady, PA and Alice Dougherty, McKeesport, PA; one brother, Theodore (Dora) Predko, Indiana, PA.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The family will receive friends at the Barnett Funeral Home, 207 E. 4th St., Emporium, PA on Sunday (March 24, 2019) from 1:00 - 2:00 followed by the service at 2:00 PM with Rev. Emilia Burdick, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Newton Cemetery, Emporium, PA

If desired, Memorials may be made to Driftwood Senior Center, PO Box 99, Driftwood, PA 15832

Online Condolences may be placed at www.BarnettFuneralHome.net

BARNETT FUNERAL HOME, Inc. entrusted with arrangements.

Patrolman Aaron Wight is Cuba Police Department officer of the year

Cuba Police Department

Recently, during a private ceremony, the Cuba Police Department awarded the officer of the year award to Patrolman Aaron Wight. 

The recipient is an officer who has made a significant contribution to the police department throughout the year and who, through their dedication, loyalty and consistent quality of teamwork, sets themselves apart. 

They are an officer to be emulated by the spirit of teamwork they foster with other officers and how they interact with the general public. The recipient of this award is chosen by nominations from his or her peers. It’s firmly believed that this award serves to promote public trust and support of our law enforcement agency. 

We are happy to award this honor to Officer Wight and have him as a member of our team!

Recalls 3-21-2019

Century Snacks LLC Recalls Snak Club Honey Bliss Nut Mix Due to Undeclared Allergen

Century Snacks, LLC of Commerce, CA is recalling all packages of 3-oz. and 5.75-oz. SNAK CLUB HONEY BLISS NUT MIX due to undeclared MILK. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to MILK run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.


Hill’s Pet Nutrition Expands Voluntary Recall of Select Canned Dog Food for Elevated Vitamin D

Hill’s Pet Nutrition today announced it is expanding its recall of select canned dog food products due to elevated levels of vitamin D. This recall expansion was caused by the same vitamin premix received from a U.S. supplier that was the source of the January 31, 2019, recall and is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

While vitamin D is an essential nutrient for dogs, ingestion of elevated levels can lead to potential health issues depending on the level of vitamin D and the length of exposure, and dogs may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive drooling, and weight loss.

Kingston Pharma, LLC RECALLS " DG™/health NATURALS baby Cough Syrup + Mucus” Because of Possible Health Risk

Kingston Pharma, LLC of Massena, NY is recalling Lot KL180157 of its 2-fluid ounce (59 mL) bottles of DG™/health NATURALS baby Cough Syrup + Mucus” because it has the potential to be contaminated with Bacillus cereus/ Bacillus circulans. Bacillus cereus in food products has the potential to produce two forms of gastrointestinal illness, one being a syndrome primarily of vomiting, and the other of diarrhea. Most often, illnesses are mild and self-limiting, although more serious and even lethal cases have occurred. Individuals at risk for more severe forms of illness include infants, young children, and others with weakened immune systems. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem with the use of DG™/health NATURALS baby Cough Syrup + Mucus.

Better Made Snack Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk In 10 Ounce $3.99 Original Potato Chips

As a preventative measure, Better Made Snack Foods of Detroit, MI, is recalling 10-ounce packages of Original Potato Chips because they may contain undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

The recalled 10-ounce Original Potato Chips were distributed nationwide in retail stores and through mail orders.

10oz $3.99 Original Potato Chips come in a yellow flexible pouch bag and are marked on the top right corner with the following information:

Lot # 62090431442 thru Lot # 62090431520
Lot # 8510043 1442 thru Lot # 85100431520

Use by date of 10 AUG 2019

Ata Int. Inc. Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of BLUEFUSION Capsules, due to presence of Undeclared Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Desmethyl carbodenafil, Dithiodesmethyl carbodenafil, Scutellarin and Daidzein
Ata Int. Inc. is voluntarily recalling all lots within expiry of BLUEFUSION Capsules to the consumer level. FDA analysis has found the product to be tainted with sildenafil, tadalafil, desmethyl carbodenafil, dithiodesmethyl carbodenafil, scutellarin and daidzein. Sildenafil and tadalafil are FDA approved drugs for the treatment of male erectile dysfunction and are in a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase (PDE-5) inhibitors. Desmethyl carbodenafil and dithiodesmethyl carbodenafil are analogues of PDE-5 inhibitors and are likely to have the same pharmacological activity as PDE-5 inhibitors and thus carry the same clinical risks. Scutellarin and daidzein are derived from plants or herbs.

The presence of the undeclared active ingredients renders the product an unapproved drug for which safety and efficacy has not been established and, therefore, subject to recall.

Tyson Foods, Inc. Recalls Chicken Strip Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Tyson Foods, Inc., a Rogers, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 69,093 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat chicken strip products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of metal.

Allegany County Democratic Committee Meets in Belmont

Belmont, NY… The Allegany County Democratic Committee will meet next on Wednesday, March 27th at 7:00 p.m. in the meeting room at the American Legion Post 808, 29 Schuyler St., Belmont, NY. All registered Democrats are invited to attend to learn more about the Democratic Party’s operations in Allegany County. Please contact Secretary Jackie Kelly alleganydemssec@aol.com if you have an item for the agenda.

The Allegany County Democratic Committee is the official governing body for the County Party, working toward broader representation by Democrats at the local, state, and national levels. Learn more at www.alleganycountydemocrats.org or on Facebook. Email alleganydemssec@aol.com or phone (607) 661-8089.

Bernard Charles Nick, aged 94, New London, CT; Born In Lucinda, PA

Bernard Charles Nick

Bernard Charles Nick, aged 94, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on March 19, 2019 in New London, CT. 

He was born in Lucinda, PA on January 2, 1925 to Robert Ambrose Nick and Mary Margaret (Wolbert) Nick. He married Verna Anne Troupe on November 26, 1949 and they had eight children.

Bernie was the fourth of twelve children and strongly believed in the importance of family. 

WWII Veteran

 He enlisted in the United States Army in 1943 and served his country honorably in the Pacific Theater during World War II. 

After the war, Bernie attended Indiana Technical College, graduating in 1952 with an engineering degree. He worked for many years for General Electric Corporation (GE) as a quality control engineer specializing in aircraft engine parts.

In 1969 the family moved to Willingboro, New Jersey and eventually to Stafford Springs, CT where the Nick’s resided for many years before Bernie and Verna settled in Stonington, CT.

Bernie had many interests and hobbies. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time working outside. He also loved watching golf and UConn basketball. Bernie loved to play cards and was especially adept at euchre, pinochle, and bridge. Bernie mostly enjoyed being with family and celebrating life with the occasional glass of wine. He also possessed a deep and abiding faith in God and was very active in Saint Edwards church in Stafford Springs, serving as an usher, reader, and an officer with the Saint Edward’s Knights of Columbus.

Bernie was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He leaves behind his wife of 69 years, Verna, of Stonington, CT; daughter, Susan (Tom) Zimecki of Delanco, NJ; daughter Beth (John) of North Stonington, CT; daughter Frances Graham of Stafford Springs, CT; daughter Jill (Rick) Hower of Delanco, NJ; son Randy Nick of Broad Brook, CT; son Matthew (Lucy) Nick of Stonington, CT; son Brian (Pamela) Nick of Suffield, CT; and son Joel (Cindy) Nick of Middlefield, CT. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Danielle (Dwayne) Fennimore; Thaddeus (Julie) Zimecki; Ann Elizabeth (Joe) Tyler; Taylor Craig; Phillip Graham; Luis (Vanessa) Graham; Daniela Alzate–Molina; Eva Nick; Lukas Nick; Alexandra Nick; Elizabeth Nick; and six great-grandchildren.

As one of 12 siblings, Bernie is survived by brothers William (Mary) Nick, Earl (Polly) Nick; John (Pam) Nick; his sister Connie (Don) Switzer; a sister-in-law, Nancy Nick; and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

Bernie died as he lived; loved by his large family and many friends. He will be sorely missed by all but we are reassured knowing he is at peace with God.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 PM on Sunday, March 24, at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Monday, at St. Elizabeth Church, Smethport, with the Rev. Vincent P. Cieslewicz, pastor as Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Smethport.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org). 

Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

Esther R. Johnson, 88, of Big Shanty Road, Bradford, PA

Esther R. Johnson

Esther R. Johnson, 88, of Big Shanty Road, Bradford, PA, passed away, Thursday, March 21, 2019, at her residence surrounded by her family

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Joyce I. Courteau, 80, of Route 6, Port Allegany, PA

Joyce I. Courteau

Joyce I. Courteau, 80, of Route 6, Port Allegany, PA, passed away Tuesday (Mar. 19, 2019) in her home, after a lengthy illness. 

Born January 17, 1939, in Colegrove, PA, she was a daughter of Kenneth R. and Elsie D. Chase Schoonover. She married Llewelyn “Pick” McDowell in Port Allegany, on Nov. 22, 1980, who died Jan. 20, 1990. On June 3, 1995, in Eldred, she married Donald L.”Mike” Courteau, who died Oct. 24, 1998. 

Joyce was a lifetime resident of the area and a graduate of Port Allegany High School, class of 1957. 

She attended the Open Arms Community Church, Port Allegany.

She was a former member of the Loyal Order of Moose, Lodge 460, Star Hose Auxiliary, and the Senior Center, all of Port Allegany.

Surviving are two sons, Richard D. (Tina Reisinger) Barber of Keating Summit, Steven W. (Carrie) Barber of Port Allegany; several grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, Llewellyn and Donald, two daughters, Dorothy I. Fortner, Debora J. Johnson, a grandson, Jeffrey S. Campbell, a brother, Edward Hosmer, and two sisters, Evelyn Winston and Carol Crosby.

Friends will be received from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday (Mar. 30, 2019) in the Open Arms Church, Port Allegany, where a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. with Rev. Matt Burt, officiating. Burial will be Grimes Cemetery, Port Allegany.

Memorials can be made to the Star Hose Auxiliary or Open Arms Church.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Switzer Funeral Home, Port Allegany.

Condolences can be made to: 
Steve W. Barber
24445 Route 6
Port Allegany, PA 16743