Estate Auction Saturday, April 6 at 385 Route 6 East, Galeton, PA

RECALL

North Country Smokehouse Recalls Ready-To-Eat Sausage Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

North Country Smokehouse, a Claremont, N.H. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,686 pounds of ready-to-eat sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically metal. Read more...

GAME COMMISSION RELEASES DEER HARVEST REPORT

Overall harvest largest since 2004-05 license year.

Pennsylvania hunters posted their highest overall deer harvest in 14 years when they took 374,690 deer during the state’s 2018-19 hunting seasons, which closed in January, the Pennsylvania Game Commission reported today.

The 2018-19 deer harvest topped the previous year’s harvest of 367,159 by about 10 percent. The last time the total deer harvest exceeded this season’s total was in 2004-05.

After four years of successive annual increases in buck harvests, hunters posted a buck harvest of 147,750, which placed fourth overall since the start of antler restrictions in 2002. The 2018-19 buck harvest represents a 10 percent decline from the 2017-18 buck harvest of 163,750. The largest harvest in the antler-restrictions era – 165,416 – occurred in the first year.

Although the total deer harvest was not impacted by downpours on the opening day of the firearms deer season, the buck harvest seemed to take a hit. About half of the firearms season’s overall buck harvest typically occurs on the season’s opening day, when hunter participation is usually at its highest.

Steady rain in most of the state persisted through the morning if not longer of the firearms season opener, making hunting for deer, as well as staying dry and warm while afield, more difficult. And when hunter participation drops on the best harvest day of any season, the harvest typically does, too. 

“This year’s opening day antlered harvest was down significantly from last year’s harvest,” said Christopher Rosenberry, Game Commission Deer and Elk Section supervisor. “Although the rest of the firearms season’s daily harvests were similar to or above last year’s, they did not make up for the low opening day harvest.”

Except on Deer Management Assistance Program properties and in Wildlife Management Areas 2B, 5B and 5D, antlerless deer hunting doesn’t begin until the first Saturday of deer rifle season. That limits antlerless deer hunting to seven of the rifle season’s 12 days.

Still, hunters took plenty of antlerless deer, which was anticipated with a 2018-19 allocation of antlerless deer licenses that exceeded the previous license year’s.

The 2018-19 overall antlerless deer harvest was 226,940, which is about 10 percent larger than the 2017-18 harvest of 203,409.

Across the 23 WMUs used by the Game Commission to manage whitetails, the antlerless deer harvest decreased in only five units: WMUs 1A, 2B, 2H, 4B and 5D. The largest harvest increases – 48 percent – occurred in WMUs 2C and 3A.

On the antlered deer side of WMU-level harvests, the buck harvest dropped in all but six units: WMUs 2B, 2H, 3D, 4A, 5A and 5B. The largest declines were in WMU 2G, 23 percent; and WMU 4D, 22 percent.

The percentage of older bucks in the 2018-19 deer harvest remained amazingly high. About 64 percent of the bucks taken by hunters were at least 2½ years old. The remainder were 1½ years old.

“That almost two-thirds of the bucks taken last year in Pennsylvania were at least 2½ years old is a tribute to the science our deer managers use and the sacrifices a generation of hunters made in the Commonwealth,” said Game Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans. “The bucks being taken every day in Pennsylvania’s deer seasons are living proof that this Commonwealth has never managed whitetails better.”

About 66 percent of the antlerless deer harvest was adult females; button-bucks comprised 17 percent and doe fawns made up 17 percent.

Bowhunters accounted for about a third of Pennsylvania’s 2018-19 overall deer harvest, taking 110,719 deer (54,350 bucks and 56,369 antlerless deer) with either bows or crossbows. But the buck harvest also was down in the 2018-19 archery seasons, by 13 percent. The previous license year, bowhunters took 62,830 bucks. Unseasonably warm weather and rain impacted many fall bowhunting days in 2018.

The muzzleloader harvest – 23,909 – was similar to the previous year’s harvest of 23,490. The 2018-19 muzzleloader harvest included 1,290 antlered bucks compared to 1,310 bucks in the 2017-18 seasons.

Agency staff currently is working to develop its 2019 antlerless deer license recommendations, which will be considered at the April 9 meeting of the Board of Game Commissioners.

In addition to harvest data, staff will be looking at deer health measures, forest regeneration and deer-human conflicts for each WMU as it assembles antlerless allocations, according to Matthew Schnupp, agency Bureau of Wildlife Management director.

Total deer harvest estimates by WMU for 2018-19 (with 2017-18 figures in parentheses) are as follows:

WMU 1A: 5,800 (6,300) antlered, 12,400 (12,600) antlerless;

WMU 1B: 8,000 (8,300) antlered, 15,800 (13,000) antlerless;

WMU 2A: 6,000 (6,100) antlered, 10,900 (10,900) antlerless;

WMU 2B: 5,000 (4,500) antlered, 12,000 (14,000) antlerless;

WMU 2C: 9,600 (9,800) antlered, 11,787 (7,972) antlerless;

WMU 2D: 11,800 (14,700) antlered, 20,958 (17,391) antlerless;

WMU 2E: 6,300 (6,900) antlered, 9,701 (6,669) antlerless;

WMU 2F: 7,700 (9,500) antlered, 7,973 (7,202) antlerless;

WMU 2G: 6,300 (8,200) antlered, 7,402 (5,501) antlerless;

WMU 2H: 2,500 (1,700) antlered, 1,800 (1,900) antlerless;

WMU 3A: 4,800 (5,400) antlered, 7,400 (5,000) antlerless;

WMU 3B: 7,000 (8,900) antlered, 8,400 (7,000) antlerless;

WMU 3C: 7,700 (8,700) antlered, 12,200 (11,900) antlerless;

WMU 3D: 5,200 (4,700) antlered, 5,700 (4,200) antlerless;

WMU 4A: 5,100 (4,800) antlered, 8,230 (7,672) antlerless;

WMU 4B: 5,300 (5,600) antlered, 6,916 (7,108) antlerless;

WMU 4C: 5,800 (6,800) antlered, 7,200 (6,500) antlerless;

WMU 4D: 8,300 (10,600) antlered, 9,081 (8,417) antlerless;

WMU 4E: 7,000 (8,200) antlered, 9,300 (8,700) antlerless;

WMU 5A: 3,100 (2,900) antlered, 4,600 (3,801) antlerless;

WMU 5B: 9,200 (9,000) antlered, 14,608 (12,800) antlerless;

WMU 5C: 7,600 (8,800) antlered, 16,415 (15,600) antlerless;

WMU 5D: 2,600 (3,300) antlered, 6,000 (7,500) antlerless; and

Unknown WMU: 50 (50) antlered, 169 (76) antlerless.

Season-specific 2018-19 deer harvest estimates (with 2017-18 harvest estimates in parentheses) are as follows:

WMU 1A: archery, 2,530 (2,710) antlered, 3,150 (3,320) antlerless; and muzzleloader, 70 (90) antlered, 1,150 (1,480) antlerless.

WMU 1B: archery, 2,750 (3,370) antlered, 2,790 (2,730) antlerless; muzzleloader, 50 (30) antlered, 1,210 (970) antlerless.

WMU 2A: archery, 2,050 (2,040) antlered, 2,040 (2,030) antlerless; muzzleloader, 50 (60) antlered, 960 (1,170) antlerless.

WMU 2B: archery, 3,520 (3,060) antlered, 5,760 (6,490) antlerless; muzzleloader, 80 (40) antlered, 640 (1,010) antlerless.

WMU 2C: archery, 3,400 (3,400) antlered, 2,378 (1,500) antlerless; muzzleloader, 100 (100) antlered, 1,315 (1,000) antlerless.

WMU 2D: archery, 4,540 (5,720) antlered, 3,472 (2,800) antlerless; muzzleloader, 60 (80) antlered, 2,274 (2,100) antlerless.

WMU 2E: archery, 1,950 (2,040) antlered, 1,601 (1,120) antlerless; muzzleloader, 50 (60) antlered, 1,205 (880) antlerless.

WMU 2F: archery, 2,520 (3,110) antlered, 1,216 (1,340) antlerless; muzzleloader, 80 (90) antlered, 998 (1,060) antlerless.

WMU 2G: archery, 1,430 (2,050) antlered, 1,341 (1,110) antlerless; muzzleloader, 70 (50) antlered, 1,060 (990) antlerless.

WMU 2H: archery, 480 (390) antlered, 270 (320­) antlerless; muzzleloader, 20 (10) antlered, 230 (280) antlerless.

WMU 3A: archery, 1,180 (1,670) antlered, 1,320 (1,010) antlerless; muzzleloader, 20 (30) antlered, 780 (690) antlerless.

WMU 3B: archery, 2,160 (3,030) antlered, 1,630 (1,560) antlerless; muzzleloader, 40 (70) antlered, 1,170 (1,040) antlerless.

WMU 3C: archery, 1,940 (2,530) antlered, 1,820 (2,200) antlerless; muzzleloader, 60 (70) antlered, 1,280 (1,400) antlerless.

WMU 3D: archery, 1,660 (1,550) antlered, 1,410 (1,230) antlerless; muzzleloader, 40 (50) antlered, 590 (570) antlerless.

WMU 4A: archery, 820 (960) antlered, 1,338 (1,250) antlerless; muzzleloader, 80 (40) antlered, 991 (950) antlerless.

WMU 4B: archery, 1,760 (2,060) antlered, 1,598 (1,760) antlerless; muzzleloader, 40 (40) antlered, 627 (740) antlerless.

WMU 4C: archery, 2,350 (2,770) antlered, 1,900 (1,800) antlerless; muzzleloader, 50 (30) antlered, 800 (700) antlerless.

WMU 4D: archery, 2,430 (3,020) antlered, 1,796 (1,920) antlerless; muzzleloader, 70 (80) antlered, 1,002 (1,080) antlerless.

WMU 4E: archery, 2,550 (3,040) antlered, 1,890 (1,870) antlerless; muzzleloader, 50 (60) antlered, 1,010 (1,030) antlerless.

WMU 5A: archery, 880 (870) antlered, 1,220 (1,060) antlerless; muzzleloader, 20 (30) antlered, 480 (440) antlerless.

WMU 5B: archery, 4,640 (4,830) antlered, 5,401 (4,920) antlerless; muzzleloader, 60 (70) antlered, 1,365 (1,180) antlerless.

WMU 5C: archery, 4,690 (5,800) antlered, 7,238 (6,890) antlerless; muzzleloader, 110 (100) antlered, 1,272 (1,210) antlerless.

WMU 5D: archery, 2,080 (2,770) antlered, 3,790 (4,890) antlerless; muzzleloader, 20 (30) antlered, 210 (210) antlerless.

Unknown WMU: archery, 40 (40) antlered, 0 (60) antlerless; muzzleloader, 0 (0) antlered, 0 (0) antlerless.

For additional information on Pennsylvania’s 2018-19 deer harvest, please go to the agency’s website – www.pgc.pa.gov – and go to the “White-Tailed Deer” page, then select 2018-19 Deer Harvest Estimates.

STOCKED LAKES PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE TO FAST-MOVING CREEKS ON REGIONAL MENTORED YOUTH TROUT FISHING DAY

Following the recent heavy rainfall across much of the Commonwealth, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) cautions anglers that many creeks may be running higher than normal during Regional Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day on Saturday, March 23.

While impacts will vary by waterway, fast-moving and muddy water conditions can make it difficult to fish and reduce the ability to have a successful trout fishing experience. Adult mentors accompanying young anglers should assess water conditions and check for safe streamside access before attempting to fish.

With many creeks impacted, anglers may consider fishing at lakes and other impoundments that have been have stocked with trout. To locate a lake in your area, view the 2019 Trout Stocking Schedule which is searchable by county. All PFBC stocked waters are listed in alphabetical order and indicate when trout stocking has occurred or will occur. Please note, not all waters have been stocked with trout prior to March 23.

Regional Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day takes place in 18 southeastern counties, including Adams, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Perry, Philadelphia, Schuylkill and York counties.

To participate, anglers ages 15 and under must obtain either FREE Mentored Youth Fishing Permit or Voluntary Youth Fishing License ($2.90) from the PFBC and be accompanied by an adult licensed angler. Permits and licenses are available at www.gonefishingpa.com and at more than 700 issuing agents. Youth may harvest up to two trout (combined species) with a minimum size of 7 inches. All other Commonwealth Inland Water regulations apply. You can view or download a FREE copy of the 2019 Fishing Summary online.

Adult mentors (anglers 16 years of age or older) must possess a valid Pennsylvania Fishing License and a current Trout/Salmon Permit and be accompanied by a properly permitted or licensed youth (less than 16 years of age). While mentors will be permitted to fish, they are not permitted to harvest trout and must release them unharmed.

Save these dates for the upcoming trout season!

Saturday, March 30 – Regional Opening Day of Trout Season (18 southeastern counties)
Saturday, April 6 – Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day (statewide)
Saturday, April 13 – Opening Day of Trout Season (statewide)

PennDOT Announces Regional Innovations Challenge Winner

​Montoursville, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that a team of students from the Northeast Bradford School District, Bradford County has been selected as the PennDOT District 3 winner for its second Innovations Challenge.

Mentored by Science/STEM teacher Rebecca Folk, team members include: Madison Jochum, Jenna Whaley, Jazmine Elliott and Eryn Nichols.

Since last fall, students have been working hard to solve this year’s challenge, which asked students to look at innovative methods, aside from laws and educational campaigns, that can be developed in the next five to 10 years to get drivers to slow down in work zones.

“Every day, construction workers on Pennsylvania roadways face a dangerous threat in work zones,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. “Despite increased enforcement efforts, work zone signage and smartphone alerts, drivers continue to commit traffic violations in work zones, which can lead to crashes or tragically someone being killed. We challenged our next generation of leaders to become an active part of the solution by developing innovative ways to tackle this transportation issue.”

The winning regional team’s innovation was the Speed Governor Jammer, a sensor that would limit the speed of a vehicle while traveling through work zones by using a vehicle’s speed governor.

Now in its second year, the PennDOT Innovations Challenge invites high school students in grades 9-12 to use their problem-solving, creative and strategic-thinking abilities to solve real-world transportation challenges. The Innovations Challenge aims to not only help students explore actual transportation challenges that PennDOT is facing, but also open their minds to the very real possibility of working for PennDOT after graduation.

“The PennDOT Challenge give students an opportunity to solve real world problems using critical thinking. Issues presented in this challenge teach collaborative skills that allow students to present their innovative solutions to people who are looking for the answers. Through this process, these young women explored, brainstormed, and developed their solution,” Folk said about the challenge.

Regional winners will now move on to compete in Harrisburg on April 10 for the state championship. The statewide winning team will be awarded $1,500 from the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) to be divided among team members.

Multiple fire depts. dispatched to a wildfire in Harrison Township

At 4:04 pm on Saturday, Harrison Valley, Westfield, and Ulysses Fire Departments have been dispatched to Route 49 in Harrison Township near Moore Hollow Rd. for a wildfire with possible exposures.

Ulysses has been recalled.

Parker James SPROUSE, 13, of Gaines, PA

Parker James SPROUSE

Parker James SPROUSE, 13, of Gaines, PA, died Friday, March 22, 2019 in Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA. 

Born April 28, 2005, in Elmira, NY, he was the son of Raymond and Jacalyn Prouty Sprouse, Jr. 

A complete obituary will be announced. 

Friends may call at First Presbyterian Church, Galeton, PA on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 from 9:00 – 11:00 PM, with Funeral Services following at 11:00 AM. The Rev. Sherry Elliott and the Rev. Thadius Sales will co-officiate. Burial will be in West Hill Cemetery, Galeton. 

Memorials may be made to the Galeton Public Library, 5 Park Lane, Galeton, PA 16922. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfuneralhome.com.

RECALLS

Tip Top Poultry, Inc. Recalls Fully Cooked, Diced Chicken Products due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Tip Top Poultry, Inc., a Rockmart, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 100 pounds of frozen, fully cooked diced white chicken meat products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens. Recalls...

Two arrested for negligent homicide in Allegany County overdose deaths

 On March 22, 2019, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) out of SP Amity arrested Jessica L. Sprague, 31, of Bolivar, NY and George R. Brown, 36, of Cuba, NY for Criminally Negligent Homicide and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd degree.

On March 7, 2019, Troopers responded to an overdose death of a 24-year-old male called in by Mark Crainer, 37 years old. 

Further investigation of that overdose death, Crainer and Sprague were arrested for False Written Statement and Tamping with Evidence. It was later determined in cooperation with the Allegany County District Attorney to arrest Sprague for supplying the deadly heroin that caused the death of a 24 year old victim.

On February 28, 2019, Wellsville Police Department handled an overdose death of a 30 year old. The BCI working in cooperation with Wellsville PD identified similarities with the narcotics used in both overdose deaths. Further investigation revealed that George Brown was involved in supplying the heroin in the overdose investigations and was arrested.

Both Sprague and Brown were arrested and arraigned.

Emporium Dispatched To Wood Shed Fire on Bryan Hill Road

Cameron County Fire Wire
6 mins ·

Cameron 14
Bryan Hill Road
Outbuilding on fire
Elk Co 1 tanker to standby in their station.
Elk 1 can stand down

Wellsboro Community Concert Association Presents Brass Roots Trio in Concert on Friday, April 5

The Brass Roots Trio, composed of three world-class musicians who redefine the chamber music genre will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 5 in the Coolidge Theatre at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro.

The Brass Roots Trio includes (from left) 
Rosetta Senkus Bacon (pianist and arranger), 
Douglas Lundeen (French horn player, 
Native American flute player and operatic tenor) 
and Travis Heath (trumpeter and flugelhorn player).

This is the sixth and final concert of the Wellsboro Community Concert Association's 2018-2019 season.

Since forming in 2004, the Brass Roots Trio has played to standing ovations and rave reviews in every corner of the United States and at cultural festivals in Switzerland, England, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Italy, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Costa Rica, Japan, China and Taiwan. Their success is due to their pioneering musical fusion of the piano, trumpet and French horn to create big, symphonic sounds, their artistic passion and adventurous programming.

Blending the classical chamber music genre with contemporary American styles, the trio has created a new sound that transcends traditional boundaries. Their musical trek through classical, baroque, jazz, ragtime, folk and gospel styles has led to a repertoire of hundreds of ingenious original arrangements.

Travis Heath, Rosetta Senkus Bacon and Douglas Lundeen perform an eclectic mix of styles from a baroque duet with piccolo trumpet and horn to jazz-inspired George Gershwin preludes to Astor Piazzolla's sultry tangos and American spirituals. They infuse their music with exuberant energy to create symphonic sounds that melt into sultry jazz. Their commentaries throughout each program are always informative, often humorous and warmhearted and make an immediate connection with the audience.

In addition to performing with the trio, Lundeen is an associate professor of music at the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey; Heath is an associate professor of music at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago and director of the Chicago Brass Festival; and Bacon is the director of music at Flemington Baptist Church in Flemington, New Jersey.

Admission at the door is $20 for adults and free for accompanying children 12 and under and $5 for students, 13 to 18. Tickets are available by calling the Deane Center at 570-724-6220 or visiting www.deanecenter.com or www.wellsborocca.org.

Ultimate Robin Williams Tribute is Wednesday, April 3

Roger Kabler is pictured as Robin Williams

On Wednesday, April 3 at 7:30 p.m., Roger Kabler will bring his amazing performance as the late, great comedian Robin Williams to life on stage in the Coolidge Theatre at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro.

For the past three years Kabler has been performing for audiences around the country. The show features mostly original material and portrayals of iconic Williams comedy bits.

Kabler literally becomes Williams, resurrecting his facial expressions, his voice, speech patterns, mannerisms and his manic energy.

"You don't have any idea how difficult it is to do this act," Kabler said to a reporter. "It's mentally and physically exhausting. And I feel like Robin is there saying 'Do you have any idea how hard it is to come back to life? Especially in your body?'"

Known for his impressions of many celebrities, Kabler has established himself as one of the industry's top Robin Williams impressionists, having taken on the mercurial comic legend's persona for decades.

Kabler began impersonating Williams when he was 17 while watching the star in “Mork & Mindy." That TV show ran from September 1978 to May 1982. He has been refining his impersonation of Williams ever since.

During the 1980s and 90s, Kabler appeared on a variety of late night shows. He was a regular on the last Carol Burnett series in 1991 and starred in a short-lived 1992 NBC sitcom, “Rhythm and Blues.” In the 1990s, he also served as spokesman for Zima in national television commercials and wrote, produced and starred in the award-winning 2002 film about a guy who gets lost in his impersonations.

In 2003, Kabler retired from comedy and began to focus on his passion, a career as a painter. After Williams passed away in August 2014, people began to ask if he was going to do a Williams tribute. “I told them I was retired,” Kabler said. “My career in the business had crashed and burned.

"But then I started feeling Robin all around me going, ‘Let’s get back to work.’ I thought ‘What’s wrong with me?’ I’m doing his voice saying things like ‘Tanya Harding put the limp in Olympics.’ I kept hearing him tell me he wanted to get back to work. Robin had so much love and good will. It felt right to bring him back and, in a way, keep him alive," Kabler said.

"When I am onstage as Robin, I truly feel his presence. My goal, every single time is to bring the joy and exuberance of the Robin Williams we know. He's a magical being with a great spirit," said Kabler.

“He had 30 years of hysterical comedy and brilliant acting and I think that’s what he wants to be remembered for. I personally enjoy playing him because I love him.”

Tickets are $25 and $22 for seniors. To purchase tickets, call the Deane Center at 570-724-6220 or visit www.deanecenter.com.

Nessmuk Rod and Gun Club Trap Shoot Practices to Begin Tuesday, April 2

The Nessmuk Rod and Gun Club is hosting trap shoot practices for beginners and experienced shooters from 3 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday, beginning April 2 and ending Oct. 29, weather permitting. The Tuesday shoots will be at the club's outdoor range at 4646 Route 287 in Delmar Township, 6.5 miles south of Wellsboro.

"The Tuesday trap shoot practices are open to members and the public," said Rick Niles, Nessmuk's trap shoot organizer. The fee is $5 per adult per round of 25 clays to shoot at practices and $2 for those under 18. Eye and ear protection must be worn. Shooters are asked to provide their own shotguns and ammunition.

The club will have a limited supply of 12-gauge shotgun shells in boxes of 25 available for purchase.

"Any shooter interested in competing in the Northern Tier Trap League as a member of our trap team can contact me," Niles said.

For more information about the club's trap team or practices, call Niles at 570-439-0187

Hamilton-Gibson Seeks Two Summer Interns; Applications Due by Monday, April 1

The deadline to submit applications for two summer intern positions with Hamilton-Gibson Productions is Monday, April 1. The three-month internships begin in May and continue into August. Stipends will be provided.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, plan to study or are already involved with some aspect of the performing arts or a nonprofit group and pass Pennsylvania’s required clearance and criminal record checks with the cost to be paid by the community theatre arts group.

The two interns will assist with "Little Miss Sunshine" in May; plan and staff “The Little Mermaid" Summer Theatre Arts Camp for third through ninth graders June 7-14 in Elkland; either perform or help with stage or house managing, set building and strike for '”Mamma Mia,” HG’s major summer musical production in July; and assist with the Radio HG production in August. They will also help with social media marketing and organizing costume inventory.

For an application or more information, call 570-724-2079 or email hamgib@gmail.com.

Fly Fishing Film Tour 2019 to be on Saturday, March 30 in Wellsboro

The film "Where It All Started" is one of nine being showcased during the 2019 Fly Fishing Film Tour on Saturday, March 30 at the Deane Center in Wellsboro. This film offers a glimpse into the fishing lives of Karlie Roland and four generations of the Roland family who have fished Henry’s Fork since the early 1980s. Karlie is continuing that tradition. Henry's Fork, a Snake River tributary in Idaho, offers world- renowned fly fishing

The Fly Fishing Film Tour has become the entertainment event of the year for anglers of all ages. In 2019, organizations in more than 150 big cities and small towns across the United States will showcase the best outdoor films from around the world.

This year's Fly Fishing Film Tour is packed with topnotch stories and imagery that will fuel anglers’ dreams for months to come. With an emphasis on people, places and fisheries, the films being screened will take anglers from Alaska to Florida, South Dakota to French Polynesia, British Columbia to the coast of Australia and hot spots in Idaho. This remarkable evening of outdoor cinema will offer adventures that those attending won’t soon forget.

Trout Unlimited Tiadaghton Chapter #688 based in Tioga County, Pa. is among the organizations hosting the 2019 Fly Fishing Film Tour. On Saturday, March 30 at 4 p.m. the doors will open at the Deane Center at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro.

Registered ticket-holders will be entered in the 2019 Fly Fishing Film Tour Sweepstakes.
 The winner will receive a seven-night, six-day fishing package for two people at the Alphonse Island Resort in the Seychelles, a group of coral and granite islands in the Indian Ocean that lie 575 miles northeast of Madagascar and 934 miles from Kenya, East Africa. This trip has a retail value of $19,680. Meals and lodging are included; airfare is not. The trip is sponsored by Yellow Dog Fly Fishing Adventures and the Alphonse Island Fishing Company.
 The winner will be announced on Aug. 15. For details, visit the Fly Fishing Film Tour website and click on “more information” then “press room.”

In the Deane Center lobby between 4 and 6 p.m. and during intermission will be a bucket raffle with prizes, such as a Thomas & Thomas fly rod, a Ross reel, a Yeti cooler, a Yeti LoadOut bucket, Corsa sunglasses and a handcrafted Parsons table, to name a few. Also in the lobby will be vendors, conservation information, door prizes and a variety of freebies in swag buckets.

The hospitality suite featuring hors d'oeuvres catered by The Red Skillet, soft drinks, a cash 
bar, and more fishing and conservation information will be available to VIPs any time from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. VIPs will also get preferred seating for the film screening. Because VIP tickets are limited, reserve them now by calling the Deane Center at 570-724-6220. VIPs will pay $15 per ticket at registration on March 30 in addition to $20 or $25 for a film tour ticket.

Screening of the first group of films will begin at 6 p.m. with intermission at 7 p.m. The showing of the second group will start at 7:20 p.m. and end by 8:30 p.m.

Tickets for the showing of the films and events in the lobby can be purchased in advance for $20 online at deanecenter.com or at https://flyfilmtourn.com/buy-tickets/ or by calling the Deane Center at 570-724-6220.

On March 30, registration will be in the Deane Center lobby. Those who purchased film tour tickets in advance for $20 and those who purchase them that day for $25 must register in order to have a chance of winning the sweepstakes prize. Those who reserved $15 VIP tickets will pay for them at registration on top of their tickets for the film screenings.

Sponsors of the 2019 Fly Fishing Film Tour are: Cooper’s Sporting Goods, Titan Sports and Graphics, Tackle Shack, Patterson’s Lumber Company, Ron Baltzley Hardwoods, Inc., Kettle Creek Adventures Lodge and B&B, and the Steak House.

Nessmuk Rod and Club Indoor Range Shoots to End on Tuesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 28

The Nessmuk Rod and Gun Club handgun and .22 caliber rifle shoots will continue through the end of March in the club’s heated seven-station indoor range at 4646 Route 287 in Delmar Township, 6.5 miles south of Wellsboro. All shoots are open to club members and the public.

Friendly scored competitions for any caliber handgun with lead or cast bullets will be at 6:15 p.m. on Tuesdays, March 5, 12, 19 and 26. No brass or jacketed ammunition is allowed. Each shooter will be given five targets for 10 rounds each.

Shoots for .22 caliber rifles will be at 6:15 p.m. on Thursdays, March 7, 14, 21 and 28. Each shooter will be given one target with 10 bull's-eyes. 


The fee is $3 for members and $5 fee for non-members.

For information, call Kyle Knowlton at 570-439-1809.

No Injuries in Crash on Route 59 & Rt. 219 on Friday

48-3-04 for a traffic violation.

Bradford Man Charged After Early Saturday Morning Fight at Keating Township Residence

State Police Investigating Attempt To Pass Counterfeit $100. Bill In Richmond Township

Middlebury Center Residents Unhurt In Crash on Catlin Hollow Road

Coudersport Woman Arested In Knoxville on Out of State Warrant

Eldred Borough Council will hold a public informational meeting on Monday

Eldred Borough
1 hr ·

Eldred Borough Council will hold a public informational meeting on Monday March 25th at 6 PM in the Borough office.

Council will open the floor for public comment to Borough residents and tax payers who contact the office to be added to the agenda. Council will limit each speaker to 3 minutes to allow for all to be heard. Please call the office to be put on the agenda.

PA Drilling Permit Violations Issued

PA Permit Violation Issued to Devonian Resources Inc in Bloom Twp, Clearfield County

Description: Environmental Health & Safety violation issued on 2019-03-21 to Devonian Resources Inc in Bloom Twp, Clearfield county. CSL 402(b) - POTENTIAL POLLUTION - Conducting an activity regulated by a permit issued pursuant to Section 402 of The Clean Streams Law to prevent the potential of pollution to waters of the Commonwealth without a permit or contrary to a permit issued under that authority by the Department.

Incident Date/Time: 2019-03-21 00:00:00

Tags: PADEP, frack, violation, drilling

PA Permit Violation Issued to Devonian Resources Inc in Bloom Twp, Clearfield County

Description: Environmental Health & Safety violation issued on 2019-03-21 to Devonian Resources Inc in Bloom Twp, Clearfield county. SWMA 301 - MANAGEMENT OF RESIDUAL WASTE - Person operated a residual waste processing or disposal facility without obtaining a permit for such facility from DEP. Person stored, transported, processed, or disposed of residual waste inconsistent with or unauthorized by the rules and regulations of DEP.

Incident Date/Time: 2019-03-21 00:00:00

Tags: PADEP, frack, violation, drilling

PA Permit Violation Issued to Devonian Resources Inc in Bloom Twp, Clearfield County

Description: Environmental Health & Safety violation issued on 2019-03-21 to Devonian Resources Inc in Bloom Twp, Clearfield county. 78.57(a) - CONTROL, STORAGE AND DISPOSAL OF PRODUCTION FLUIDS - Operator failed to collect the brine and other fluids produced during operation, service and plugging of the well in a tank, pit or a series of pits or tanks, or other device approved by the Department or Operator discharged brine or other fluids on or into the ground or into waters of the Commonwealth.

Incident Date/Time: 2019-03-21 00:00:00

Tags: PADEP, frack, violation, drilling

PA Permit Violation Issued to Samson Res Co in Allegheny Twp, Somerset County

Description: Environmental Health & Safety violation issued on 2019-03-19 to Samson Res Co in Allegheny Twp, Somerset county. OGA3216(D) - WELL SITE RESTORATIONS - ITEMS RELATED TO PRODUCTION OR STORAGE - Failure to remove production/storage facilities, supplies and equipment and restore the well site within 9 months of plugging a well.

Incident Date/Time: 2019-03-19 00:00:00

Tags: PADEP, frack, violation, drilling

James Young Can Help You Save On Insurance, Call Today For a Free Quote

IU9 Positions Available for the 2019-2020 School Year

Big Selection of Used Vehicles at Bokman of Wellsville, NY

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

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

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

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

ST. Marys Dispatched To Rollover Crash On Windfall Road

At 11:41 PM on Friday, St. Marys Fire & Ambulance have been dispatched to a rollover crash at Windfall Road & Shields Road in the city.
Police report no patient on scene, Fire and EMS can cancel.

Coudersport Police, Ambulance Dispatched To Man Found on Driveway Along East Second Street

At 11:14 PM on Friday, Coudersport Ambulance has been dispatched to 300 block of East Second Street for a person lying outside unresponsive.

RECALLS

Two Brothers Pork Skins Recalls Pork Skin Products Due to Misbranding and Failure to Produce Under A HACCP Plan

Two Brothers Pork Skins, a Kannapolis, N.C. establishment, is recalling an undetermined amount of pork skin products because the products were produced without meeting the federal requirements to develop and implement a hazard analysis and system of preventive controls to improve the safety of the products, known as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points; the omission of safe handling instructions on the package; and due to misbranding.

Missing Dog Karr Hollow Area, Shinglehouse, PA

Missing Dog has been found.

Fire & EMS Dispatched to Crash on Minard Run Road

At 9:40 PM on Friday, Bradford Township Fire & City EMS have been dispatched to Minard Run Road near Penn Hills golf course for a vehicle into the guard rails.

Smethport Dispatched For ATV Accident Near Irons Hollow

At 9:38 PM on Friday, Smethport Fire & Ambulance has been dispatched to Rt. 6 & Irons Hollow Road for an ATV rollover accident with an injured male.

Shinglehouse Ambulance to Elm Street. Second call

At 9:31 PM on Friday, Shinglehouse ambulance dispatched to another location on Elm Street for a patient to go to UPMC Cole.

St. Marys Dispatched To 2 Vehicle Crash On Stoney Creek Lane

At 9:15 PM on Friday, St. Marys Fire Rescue & EMS have been dispatched to a 2 vehicle head-on crash with ejection near 27 Stoney Creek Lane. Responders report roads are treacherous. Bucktail is a sheet of ice. Stat helicopter is not available. A male patient was ejected & seriously injured. A female is also injured.

Cameron 14 to 241 Dexter Street Emporium Borough Structure Fire (Rekindle)

Cameron County Fire Wire
51 mins · 8:06 PM

Cameron 14
241 Dexter Street
Emporium Borough
Structure Fire (Rekindle)

Shinglehouse Ambulance to Elm Street

At 8:52 PM on Friday, Shinglehouse Ambulance has been Dispatched to Elm Street for a patient to go to UPMC Cole.
9:10 PM--Portville Ambulance requested mutual aid.

Final Winter Adventure Hike Saturday At Lyman Run State Park

The 3rd and final Winter Adventure Hike will be held on Saturday, March 23 at 9:00 am. 

Please meet in the parking lot next to the park pavilion (day use area). The hike will be going up the Daggett to the old Birch Still. Be aware that there is a possibility of high winds on Saturday and if that is the case in the morning, the hike will be canceled for safety reasons. 
Please call hike leader Chip Harrison at (814) 435-2518 no later than 8:00 am if it is windy out.

Also, a reminder to FOLR members as well as anyone who would like to join as a volunteer with this group, there will be a member meeting on Monday, March 25th at 6:30 pm at the park maintenance building. 

It is NOT recommended that you come down Lyman Run Road as it receives no winter maintenance and might still be very icy. 

Members, please consider bringing along a friend who might be interested in joining. Scott Morgan, Manager of Lyman Run, will be discussing some projects he would like our group to look as and we will also be discussing an expansion of Spooktacular that will partner us with the PA Lumber Museum.

Have you sent in your membership renewals? Don't forget...they are due now!

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding visits Kane today

PA State Rep. Martin Causer

It was a pleasure to welcome Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding to Kane today for a North Central Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance meeting. The primary focus of the session, held at Flickerwood Wine Cellars, was to discuss the economic impact of agriculture and future trends within the industry.

Pictured from left: McKean County Commissioner Cliff Lane, me; Rep. Cris Dush of Jefferson and Indiana counties; Sue Swanson, executive director, Allegheny Hardwood Utilization Group; Christine Perneski, director of enterprise development, North Central Regional Planning and Development Commission; Kelly Kundratic, manager of agriculture policy and programs, Team Pennsylvania; McKean County Commissioner Carol Duffy; and Secretary Redding. A copy of the report under discussion at the meeting is available here:

Esther "EJ" Ruth Johnson 88, of Irishtown, PA

Esther "EJ" Ruth Johnson

Esther "EJ" Ruth Johnson 88, of Irishtown, PA passed away Thursday, March 21, 2019, at her residence, after a lengthy illness.

Born February 16, 1931 in her family's home near Rew, she was a daughter of the late Guy M. and Kittie B. (Miles) Raught.

In 1936 she and her family moved from Rew to Hazel Hurst. Esther attended Kushequa Elementary School and graduated from Hamlin High School in 1949.

On June 10, 1950, she married Axel J. "AJ" Johnson who died December 1, 2018. AJ & EJ started dating in 1945. They loved square dancing, especially wherever Cowgirl Clara was performing. She also enjoyed bowling, yardwork, Schmidt's and spending time with her family and friends. In 1955 they moved into their home in Irishtown and enjoyed 68 devoted years together.

EJ worked at Hanley Brick for 11 years, and Dresser Manufacturing for 33 years, retiring in 1997. She assisted AJ doing bookkeeping for Lafayette Township while he was a Supervisor. She was widely respected for her work ethic and sense of responsibility. In 44 years of employment she never requested a sick day.

She was a 50 year Golden Star Sister in the Phoenix Chapter #15 of Smethport of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Surviving is her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Cheryl (Rick) Lutz, of Bradford, three sisters, Mary Walker of El Cajon CA, Carol Stroup, of Mt Jewett, Adda (Dale) Swanson of Smethport, one brother Guy (Kay) Raught of Hazel Hurst, two sister-in-laws, Edie Raught, and Shirley Raught, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two sisters, Geraldine Nunn, Virginia Klein, and four brothers, Bill, Don, Dick and Tom Raught.

Family will be receiving friends on Monday, March 25, 2019, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc., 372 East Main Street, members of the Phoenix Chapter #15 of the Order of the Eastern Star will conduct services at 12:45 pm followed by funeral services at 1:00pm with Rev. Jay Tennies, pastor of the Hill Memorial United Methodist Church, officiating. Committal services and burial will follow in McKean Memorial Park.

Memorials contributions if desired, may be made to the Lafayette Volunteer Fire Department, or the Community Nurses Home Support Services Inc. 757 Johnsonburg Road, Suite 200, St. Marys, PA 15857.

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

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Nancy L. Bova, 78, of Lake Wales, FL, formerly of Duke Center, PA

Nancy L. Bova

Nancy L. Bova, 78, of Lake Wales, FL, formerly of Duke Center, PA. passed away, Tuesday, March 19th, 2019 at her residence, with her family by her side.

Born on September 4, 1940 in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Kenneth and Helen (Washburn) Gates. She was a 1958 graduate of Bradford High School.

On February 7, 1959 in Bradford, she married John H. Bova, who preceded her in death on May 21, 2010.

Nancy enjoyed motorcycling, fourwheeling and spending the winters in Lake Wales, FL since 1996.

She worked as a waitress at various restaurants in Duke Center, Bradford and Olean.

Nancy is survived by three sons, William (Lori) B. Bova, of Lake Wales FL; Joseph (Barbara) W. Bova, of Spokane, WA; John H. (Penny) Bova, Jr., of Hubert, NC; many grandchildren, and great grandchildren; one sister, Patricia (Melvin) Witschi, of Lake Wales, FL; one brother, Robert Gates, of Virginia, and several nieces and nephews.

No public services will be observed. Burial will be in the Willow Dale Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Memorial contributions if desired may be made to the Otto Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Online condolences can be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

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

WWII Army Vet

Eugene A. "Gene" Gigliotti

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

Born October 1, 1926 in Bradford, he was a son of the late Joseph G. and Elizabeth (Falsatta) Gigliotti. He was a 2002 honorary graduate of Bradford High School as part of the operation recognition for those veterans who left school early to secure our nations freedom.

On November 25, 1944, Gene enlisted in the United States Army, he served in 14th Infantry, European Theater in Germany during WWII, He was honorably discharged on August 20, 1946

Gene was employed as a Professional Fire Fighter for the City of Bradford from August 12,1952 to October 1, 1976. In addition to his full-time employment Gene started the first air freight delivery service from the Bradford Regional Airport in 1960. He also owned and operated Crystal Coil & Bar Supply and along with his son Tim he owned and operated Bradford Air Cargo & Dedicated Delivery Service.

Gene was a lifetime member of St. Bernard Church, VFW Post 212 and American Legion.

Mr. Gigliotti is survived by his son, Timothy Gigliotti (Robert Pascarella), of Bradford, one brother, George Gigliotti, of Bradford, Gene's companion of many years Debbie Patrick and her son Cody Minich of Bradford, several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his former wife Alice (Collins) Gigliotti, one sister Ida Rose Gigliotti, two brothers Joseph Gigliotti and Patrick Gigliotti.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, March 26, 2019, from 5pm to 7pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. 372 East Main St., and again from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM on Wednesday, at 10:30am a Prayer Service will be held followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in St. Bernard Church, with Rev. Raymond Gramata, pastor as Celebrant. After the Mass committal services and Full Military Honors by members of the United States Army, and members of the Honor Guard of the Bradford American Legion Post 108 will be conducted in St. Bernard Mausoleum, with entombment to follow.

Memorials contributions if desired, may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Austin Dispatched To Rollover Crash On Rt. 872 Near Odin Road

At 5:42 PM on Friday, Austin Fire & EMS have been dispatched to the area of Rt. 872 & Odin Road for a vehicle rolled over an embankment.
Report patient self-extricated.

Louis A. “Louie” Perkins, 81, of Shinglehouse, PA

Louis A. Perkins
“Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather”

US Army Vet

Louis A. “Louie” Perkins, 81, of Shinglehouse, PA passed away in his home on Friday, March 22, 2019, after a lengthy illness.

Born on Friday, March 4, 1938 in Shinglehouse, he was a son of Louis C. and Kathryn Yeager Perkins. On August 10, 1963 in Talladega, Alabama, he married Mary Lou Walker, who survives.

Louie was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School, Class of 1956, in Shinglehouse. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in Alabama.

He was first employed as a machine operator at Clark Brothers in Olean, N.Y. and retired in 2000 from Air Preheater in Wellsville, N.Y. For many years, he and his wife, owned and operated Perkins Air Tools. Until the time of his death, he served as an Oswayo Township Supervisor, having done so for over 40 years.

Louie was a member of the First Baptist Church in Shinglehouse. He was a member of Sharon Lodge #598 F. & A.M. in Shinglehouse where he had been very active in the Lodge fish fry fundraisers. He was a life member of the Board of Directors of the Potter County Fair Association in Millport, a member of the NRA, and a life member of the North American Hunting Club. He loved hunting, fishing and camping. As a youth, Louie was a member of the Future Farmers of America.

Surviving besides his wife are two daughters, Becky E. Ebbert of Allegany, N.Y. and Sharon A. Dean of Pelham, Alabama; three grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers, Steven (Julie) Perkins and Lynn (Fran) Perkins, both of Shinglehouse; two sisters, Waneta Snyder of Roulette and Emma (Mark) Lauver of Smethport; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Louie was predeceased by a sister, Gladys “Tookie” Dickerson; and a son-in-law, Bill Ebbert, who he considered a son.

Family and friends may call from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Monday, March 25, 2019, at the First Baptist Church, Academy Street, Shinglehouse, where funeral services will follow at noon with the Rev. Russell J. Horning, pastor, officiating.

Members of Sharon Lodge #598 F. & A.M. will conduct a Masonic service at 11:45 a.m. on Monday at the church.

Members of the Potter County Honor Guard will accord military honors on Monday at the First Baptist Church.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials in Louie’s name may be made to the Potter County Fair Association, c/o 1151 Eleven Mile Road, Shinglehouse, PA 16748 or to the First Baptist Church, PO Box 68, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.

Louie entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse. To express condolences, share a fond memory or view a video tribute, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com

Get Signed Up To Participate in Genesee Community Days

Police Seeking To Identify Armed Robber In Clinton County

Woodward Township Police Department


********** ARMED ROBBERY **********

On Thursday 3/21/2019 @ 10:05pm an individual entered the MinitMart, 25 Woodward Avenue, and held the clerk at gunpoint while demanding money from the cash register. The suspect then fled the store towards the Constitution Bridge with an undetermined amount of cash.

The suspect is described as being a white male, approximately 5’10” to 6’ tall, with an average build. He was wearing blue jeans, a tan colored knee length winter coat with a black fur collar, a bandanna over his face, a black winter hat with ear flaps and black or dark gray gloves. The suspect displayed a blued / black semi auto handgun with a red dot laser to the clerk.

Anyone who may have information concerning the Robbery is asked to contact the Woodward Police Department at (570) 748-2936 or (570) 858-5676. All information will be kept confidential.

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.