Catherine M. Hackett Hunter, age 69 of Westfield

Catherine M. Hackett HUNTER

Catherine M. Hackett Hunter, age 69 of Westfield passed away suddenly on May 15, 2020 with her family by her side at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center. 

She was born May 9, 1951 in Brookfield Twp., Pa. the daughter of Charles "Chip" and Joyce Butler Hackett. She was a home health caregiver, member of the Eastern Star, loved to go for rides with Jeff, animals and doing crafts. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and her family. 

She is survived by her husband, Jeff VanDusen, Westfield, daughters, Carly Marsiglio (Foster Cosby), Port Alleghany, Pa., Patricia Hunter (Cecil Lowe), Nelson, Pa, grandchildren, Brelynn Marsiglio (Seth Bigley), Renee Marsiglio, Rebecca Marsiglio, Torin Marsiglio, Brock Marsiglio, sisters, Sandra (Leon) Parker, Bradford, NY., Melanie (John) Kenyon, Elkland, Lori (David) Tomb, Westfield, Deann (Alan) Haines, Virginia Beach, Va., brother in law, Paul Truax, Lawrenceville, sister in law and brother in law, Kathi Jo (Monte) Pratt, Apollo Beach, Fl., numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and all her adopted children. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Joyce Truax and Virginia Hackett, brother Randy Hackett. 

Friends may call Tuesday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 8:00 pm. at the Kenyon Funeral Home, Westfield. ( All Covid 19 Precautions will apply, including face masks and 25 person limit) Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Rev. Dorothy Densmore, offc. Burial will be in Woodhull Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Second Chance Animal Sanctuaries, 725 Gee Rd., Tioga, Pa. 16946 (kenyonfuneralhome.com)

Nancy J. FRANCIS, 82, Andrews Settlement, PA

Nancy J. FRANCIS

Nancy J. FRANCIS, 82, Andrews Settlement, PA, died Friday, May 15, 2020 in UPMC Cole, Coudersport, PA. 

Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Fire Dept./EMS Dispatched for Female Fallen Off Rocks Near Wilcox

At 2:13 PM on Saturday, Jones Township Fire Dept. and EMS have been dispatched to Stoney Hill Road near Glen Hazel Road for a 25 year old female who fell 7 feet off the rocks with a leg injury. Stat Medevac requested on standby if needed.

2:36 PM--Johnsonburg Rescue and Elkland Search & Rescue dispatched. Stat Medevac cancelled. 

3:45 PM--Patient has been extricated and is being transported to the hospital.

Sharon L. Ball, 73, of Shinglehouse

Sharon L. Ball

Sharon L. Ball, 73, of Shinglehouse, passed away in her home with
her loving family by her side on Saturday, May 16, 2020, after a long illness.
Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner
of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are incomplete and will be announced
with a full obituary.

Seniors 2 Seniors

Bill Gerski teared up a little when he received the email greetings.

They’d been sent by local senior citizens, many of whom had just learned how to turn on a computer for the first time, thanks to an innovative program created by the broadband subsidiary of Tri-County Rural Electric Cooperative in Mansfield, Pennsylvania.

“I’ve never seen so many smiles,” said Gerski, the senior vice president of business development at Tri-Co Connections. “Now they are emailing their grandchildren. That’s what it’s all about.”

Dubbed Seniors 2 Seniors, the program was launched by Tri-Co last year to form classes where senior citizens are taught internet basics by tech-savvy high school seniors.

Tri-Co partnered with the Potter County Education Council, which coordinated the teenage volunteers, a local career and technical center and senior centers, where the classes take place. Local banks donated funds for computers and printers to get the classes going and to help seniors learn how to do their banking online.

With Tri-Co and Seniors 2 Seniors, “we have the technology, the broadband connection, and we have the opportunity to teach the skills necessary to everyone,” said Michele Moore, executive director of the Potter County Education Council.

About 40 people completed the eight-week course last fall, and another 20 were halfway through when the COVID-19 pandemic paused their progress.

Gerski says the ongoing health crisis, with its stay-at-home restrictions, has underscored how vital internet know-how is. Skilled seniors with online access can carry out necessary tasks like banking, shopping, telemedicine and visiting virtually with relatives, neighbors and friends. Some could even come out of retirement and work from home.

“There are seniors who would like to go to work and add income to their Social Security, but they have no computer skills,” said Gerski.

Tri-Co, which has received grants and loans to build broadband, connected its first fiber-to-the-home subscriber on April 7, becoming the only electric co-op subsidiary in the state to do so. Tri-Co has since hooked up 60 more homes. It plans to run fiber to all 22 of its substations and serve all its members in northcentral Pennsylvania over the next five to six years.

Tri-Co’s demographics are challenging and not unique among rural co-ops. The electric co-op serves 5.8 homes per mile, about half the national average. About 42% of its membership are seasonal. Another 40% are seniors—most of whom lack computer skills.

Gerski believes Seniors 2 Seniors can help solve the density conundrum required for affordable broadband by equipping retirees with the tools to take advantage of fast, reliable internet.

He said he welcomes calls from other electric co-ops that want to replicate Seniors 2 Seniors as they develop broadband in service territories where a large number of retirees reside.

“If we teach the senior members to use a computer, they will be broadband subscribers, and we will have happy members,” he said. “Everybody wins if our seniors know how to use a computer and have high-speed internet access.”

And that includes one 96-year-old student who described how people questioned why she was bothering to learn how to use a computer and get on the internet, said Moore.

Her answer?

“Well, I don’t want to be left behind. I want to be part of this.”

To learn more about Seniors 2 Seniors, please contact Bill Gerski at billgerski@tricoconnections.com

Cathy Cash is a staff writer at NRECA.

Rexford Jobe FLYNN, Jr of Ulysses, PA

Rexford Jobe FLYNN, Jr

Rexford Jobe FLYNN, Jr., known as Joey, Joe, or RJ, went to be with the Lord on May 13, 2020. Joe was born October 1, 1954 in Blossburg, PA to Wilda and Rexford Flynn. He will be laid to rest with military rites near his extended family in Ulysses, PA at Ulysses Cemetery. Military Rites will be accorded by members of the Potter County Honor Guard.

Joe married his high school sweetheart, Gloria Struble, in Dansville, NY on September 4, 1973. He has four amazing sons, Rexford “Joe” III (Lisa), Thomas (Jan), Brian (Amy), and Maximilian (Nicole); eight grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

Vietnam War Veteran

He was a Vietnam War Veteran, serving honorably with the US Marine Corps. He had many engaging stories of serving our country as a Marine and the men that served alongside him. He was an avid outdoorsman and taught his family, including a multitude of nieces and nephews, to camp, hunt, and fish. He is remembered fondly by nephews for being the one to get them their first bike or teaching them to catch their first fish. He loved all animals, especially his horses and dogs.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Wilda and Rexford Flynn; and two sisters, Elizabeth Faro and Gloria Coons. He is one of 11 children and proudly the only boy. Sisters Bonnie Perkins, Beverly White, Gayle McCarthy, Madelyn Houghtaling, Moneen McElhatten, Maxine Addis, Charlene Palasciano, Victoria Martin and all his many nieces and nephews will miss him greatly, especially his smile and great sense of humor. His family asks that you keep them in your prayers at this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Saluting Our Armed Forces

Roulette VFD Chicken BBQ In Progress

Roulette Chemical Engine #1

11 mins ·

****Sold Out****
Thank you everyone for the support! All chickens have been sold out.

Wellsville Dispatched For Crash on Babcock Road

At 10:58 AM on Saturday, Wellsville Fire Dept. & EMS dispatched to a car in the ditch crash on Babcock Road near Fulmer Valley Road.
Wellsville units recalled.

Westfield Dispatched For Male Injured By Animal

At 10:40 AM on Saturday, Westfield Fire & EMS have been dispatched to 1992 North Fork Road in Brookfield Township for a male injured by an animal.

Coudersport ambulance was dispatched to E. Second street for chest pains

On May 16 at 9:30 am Coudersport ambulance was dispatched to E. Second street for chest pains

SENECA RESOURCES CO LLC reports drilling started

SENECA RESOURCES CO LLC Reports Drilling Started (SPUD) in Hepburn Twp Township

Description: SENECA RESOURCES CO LLC reports drilling started on 2020-05-09 00:00:00 at site FRY GAMBLE 108H 53068 in Hepburn Twp township, Lycoming county

Incident Date/Time: 2020-05-09 00:00:00

Tags: PADEP, frack, spud, drilling

SENECA RESOURCES CO LLC Reports Drilling Started (SPUD) in Hepburn Twp Township

Description: SENECA RESOURCES CO LLC reports drilling started on 2020-05-08 00:00:00 at site FRY GAMBLE 107H 53067 in Hepburn Twp township, Lycoming county

Incident Date/Time: 2020-05-08 00:00:00

Tags: PADEP, frack, spud, drilling

SENECA RESOURCES CO LLC Reports Drilling Started (SPUD) in Hepburn Twp Township

Description: SENECA RESOURCES CO LLC reports drilling started on 2020-05-08 00:00:00 at site FRY GAMBLE 106H 53066 in Hepburn Twp township, Lycoming county

Incident Date/Time: 2020-05-08 00:00:00

Tags: PADEP, frack, spud, drilling

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK IS MAY 16-22!

HARRISBURG, Pa (May 13) – With the summer boating season just around the corner, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources are joining with the National Safe Boating Council and other boating safety advocates across the country to recognize May 16-22, 2020 as National Safe Boating Week.

“Great memories on the water begin with some basic safety steps that include wearing a life jacket,” said Tim Schaeffer, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. “Whether you’re paddling, waterskiing, fishing your favorite spot, or just relaxing on a pontoon boat, we can have fun and stay safe by following a checklist that includes sharing a float plan and never boating under the influence.”

In addition to traditional safety measures, boaters should also consider how their boating activities this season could be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Boaters are reminded to abide by the Governor’s Stay-at-Home Order and follow safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which include social distancing and limiting non-essential travel.

“Boating in a state park, or on any of Pennsylvania’s beautiful rivers, lakes and streams can be the great escape many of us are looking for right now,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “We can enjoy the physical and mental benefits that come with spending time on the water, but we should continue to take steps to protect ourselves and those around us.

Regardless of your boating interests, Pennsylvania state parks have a waterway for you. If you don’t have a boat, many state parks rent a variety of watercraft for you to enjoy.”

Boating Safety Checklist

To protect others from the spread of COVID-19, boaters should abide by Governor Wolf’s Stay-at-Home Order and follow social distancing guidelines from the CDC. This includes:
Stay at home if you do not feel well
Boat close to home
Limit those on board a boat to people living in the same household
Remain at least 6 feet apart from other boaters (the length of a canoe or kayak paddle, or fishing rod, is a good measure of distance)
Do not raft up with other boats
When touching an item that someone else has touched, such as a marina fuel pump, use hand sanitizer or wash your hands

Wear a life jacket. Law requires that you have a life jacket on board for every person on your boat. Children ages 12 and under must always wear a life jacket when aboard a boat less than 20 feet in length, including all canoes and kayaks. In 2019, 57 recreational boating accidents in Pennsylvania resulted in 8 fatalities. 7 of the 8 victims in 2019 were not wearing a life jacket at the time of the mishap that resulted in death (87%). According to Pennsylvania boating accident reports, roughly 80-percent of all boating fatalities occur annually because boaters were not wearing life jackets. Life jackets must be U.S. Coast Guard approved and properly fit the individual, including children and infants.

Never boat under the influence (BUI). Alcohol use increases the chances of having an accident. Alcohol affects balance, coordination and judgment. It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. Just like operating a motor vehicle on the roadway, in Pennsylvania, a person operating a boat is over the legal limit if he or she has a blood alcohol concentration of point-zero-eight (0.08%) or higher. BUI Penalties include loss of boating privileges, significant fines and imprisonment. Waterways Conservation Officers will be on patrol throughout the summer looking for impaired boaters.

Create a float plan. Let someone know where you are planning to boat and when you expect to return. Plans can change when you're having fun but keeping someone aware of your location throughout the day can ensure that help arrives quickly if you experience a mechanical or medical emergency while on the water. Carry a 'dry bag' in which to keep your cell phone and other valuables while boating.
Take a basic boating safety course. In Pennsylvania, all boaters born after December 31, 1981 who operate boats powered by motors greater than 25 horsepower must have a Pennsylvania Boating Safety Certificate. A certificate is also required for anyone who operates a personal watercraft (such as a jet ski), regardless of age. Online and classroom-based courses can be found at www.fishandboat.com. (Due to public health concerns, related to COVID-19, classroom-based courses may be limited.)

Have proper registrations and launch permits. In Pennsylvania, all powered boats must be registered with the PFBC. Anyone operating an unpowered boat, such as a kayak, canoe or standup paddleboard, who wishes to use a PFBC or DCNR boat access, including those at state parks, may either register their boat or purchase an annual launch permit. Launch permits are available for purchase online.

To learn more about boating in Pennsylvania , including complete rules and regulations, registration and title information, how to find great places to boat near you, how file a boating accident report and answers to other frequently asked questions (FAQs), visit the Boating Basics page on the PFBC website or the FishBoatPA mobile app. Information and safety tips for kayak fishing can be found here.

Click here to view the PFBC’s video promoting National Safe Boating Week.

Pennsylvania has 121 state parks, and 20 forest districts.

Information about state parks and forests is available on the DCNR website.

Wolf Administration Reminds Pennsylvanians to Respond to 2020 Census

Harrisburg, PA – Today, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Dennis Davin reminded all Pennsylvanians to be a good neighbor and respond to the 2020 Census.

“As we continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by practicing social distancing, Pennsylvanians can support their neighbors and communities by responding to the 2020 Census,” said Sec. Davin. “This simple act is something we can all safely do from home—by mail, phone, or for the first time ever, online.”

This year marks the 22nd year of the United States Census, and commonwealth residents began receiving invitations to fill out the 2020 Census in the beginning of March. All households should have already received their initial invitation.

Taking time to respond to the 2020 Census now means a Census taker will not need to visit your home later. Beginning May 13, 2020, Census takers will begin a phased restart of on-field operations in the commonwealth by dropping off 2020 Census invitation packets at the front doors of households in areas where the majority of households do not receive mail at their home.

The deadline to respond has been extended from August 14, 2020, to October 31, 2020.

“While Pennsylvania’s response rate is currently higher than the national average, there are still some communities with response rates under 20 percent,” said Sec. Davin. “By encouraging all residents to respond to the Census, those communities will help ensure that they receive fair and adequate access to critical funding, resources, and federal representation.”

The Census questionnaire is confidential and straightforward, with questions that include your name, address, sex, race, ethnicity, age, and whether you own or rent your home. The Census Bureau will never ask about your citizenship status or for sensitive information like your social security number, bank accounts, or payments/donations. The Census Bureau will never reach out to you on behalf of a political party. Your responses to the Census are protected by law and cannot be shared with, or used by, any other government agencies. Answers cannot be used for law enforcement purposes or to determine eligibility for government benefits or immigration enforcement.

The United States Constitution requires a Census count once every 10 years to count every person living in the United States once and only once. The results of the 2020 Census will help provide fair representation when determining congressional districts, policy, decision-making, and distribution of billions of dollars in federal funding that impacts the daily lives of Pennsylvanians over the next 10 years.

For more information about the U.S. Census, visit the PA Census website, and be sure to stay up-to-date with all of our agency news on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Mental Health Awareness Month

Covid-19 has brought anxiety and uncertainness to rural Allegany County. In this time when nothing is normal, and the new normal is social distancing from many people who have provided comfort in the past, Clarity Wellness Community continues to be a lifeline for the community.
“When Clarity began providing services remotely in March, we were confident in our technology and planning that we could continue to meet the mental and behavioral health needs of the community,” said Michael Damiano, executive director of Clarity.

“What we didn’t know was how receptive the people we support would be to seeing their counselor on a computer or speaking with them over a telephone,” Damiano said. Many of Clarity’s current clients were already experienced with participating in telepsychiatry sessions with Clarity’s psychiatrist and nurse practitioners. Most people rapidly adjusted to also seeing their counselors that way also.

“May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and I want to recognize not only the Clarity staff who have continued to provide the highest quality services during this pandemic, but also our clients who have remain engaged with us. Change can be difficult in ordinary times, but our clients are key to the success Clarity has achieved in the virtual treatment environment.”
The organization has begun planning for the ultimate return to office-based services. This is likely to initially be a combination of office-centered and remote services, but the timing will depend on protocols established by New York State and the regional groups authorized by the state.
“We would like to thank the community, and state and county officials for their support of mental and behavioral health services during this national emergency,” Damiano said. “Their recognition of the need to find a way to continue offering services was instrumental in Clarity’s ability to transition its model of care.”

Anyone needing mental and behavioral health services can access them by calling Clarity at 585-593-6300. The Allegany County Crisis Hotline also is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 888-448-3367.

Headline Harrisburg

The Clearfield Driver and Photo License Center in the Clearfield Mall, and the Punxsutawney Driver and Photo License Center at 547 West Mahoning Street are open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.; however, Wednesday and Thursday between 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. is designated for anyone 60 years of age and older.

Customers will be able to obtain the following services as they plan their visit to one of these centers:

	•	Commercial Driver License (CDL) transactions, including renewals, replacements, Medical Examiner’s Certificates (MECs), date of proof transactions, Hazardous Material Recertifications, and related transactions.
	•	Initial issuance transactions, including out-of-state transfers, ID card issuance, and related transactions.
	•	Photo license service.
	•	Driver license restoration services that cannot be completed online or via mail.
	•	Medical-related testing.
	•	Non-U.S. citizen transaction processing.

The Photo License Center in the DuBois Area Plaza near my district office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

The center only processes photos so you must have a camera card for this service.

---

Expiration dates for vehicle registrations and safety and emission inspections will be extended for Pennsylvania residents as follows, in response to statewide COVID-19 mitigation efforts.

	•	For vehicle registrations of all classes, including mass transit; apportioned vehicles; fleet vehicles; dealer plate and temporary registrations, as well as biennial farm exemption certificates scheduled to expire from March 16 through May 31, the expiration date is now extended through June 30, 2020.
	•	For safety inspections and emissions inspections scheduled to expire from March 16 through May 31, 2020, are now good through June 30, 2020.
	•	For Persons with Disabilities parking placards scheduled to expire from March 16 through May 31, 2020 are now good through, June 30, 2020.
	•	Driver’s licenses, photo ID cards, and learner's permits scheduled to expire from March 16, 2020 through May 31, 2020 are extended through June 30, 2020. A camera card is considered a driver's license, so it is covered by the same terms and conditions extending other driver's license products.

PennDOT also announced plans to use existing photos on file for customers who renew their driver’s license and identification card.

Please click here for more information.

Facebook Website Bio Latest News State Forms Photo Gallery Contact

Headline Harrisburg Thursday, May 14, 2020 The latest news from the State Capitol  Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account. You are welcome to contact me through this link. Reopening Pennsylvania for You The House has sent to the governor’s desk these three key pieces of legislation to be signed into law:      •   House Bill  2388 - would reopen auto dealerships, hair salons, barbershops, lawn and garden centers, pet groomers, messenger services and manufacturing.   •   House Bill 2412 - would reopen the real estate industry (including inspectors and appraisers).   •   Senate Bill 327 - would give county governments the option to develop and implement their own plans to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by allowing industries that have not already been deemed essential to operate, if it is safe to do so.

PennDOT Cameron/Potter County Maintenance work schedule for the week of May 18 – May 22, 2020

Emporium/Coudersport, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Cameron/Potter County Maintenance announces the following work schedule for the week of May 18 – May 22, weather permitting. Motorists should travel with extra caution in these and all work areas. Motorists should be aware that due to the nature of highway maintenance and emergency work, crews could be working on any highway at any time of the day or night.

This work will be done in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and State Department of Health guidance as well as COVID-19 safety guidance, including protocols for social distancing, use of face coverings, personal and job-site cleaning protocols.

Cameron County 0240

Spray Patching:
● State Route: 0120 (Emporium to Elk County line) Monday & Tuesday
● State Route: 0046 (Emporium to McKean County line) Wednesday & Thursday
● State Route: 4002 (Beechwood Road) Friday

Bridge Flushing:
● State Route: 0120 (Emporium to Elk County line) Monday - Wednesday
● State Route: 0155 (Emporium to Potter County line) Thursday & Friday

Potter County 0260

Sign Repairs:
● Various State Routes throughout the County

Bridge Flushing:
● Various State Routes throughout the County

Spray Patching:
● State Route: 1011 (Ulysses/Genesee area)
● State Route: 1012 (Jackson Road)

Ditching:
● State Route: 1016 (Whites Corners/North Fork area)
● State Route: 1019 (Harrison Valley/North Branch area)
Shoulder Cutting:
● State Route: 0872 (Austin to Cameron County line)
● State Route: 3003 (Prouty Road)

Pipe Replacement/ Base Repairs:
● State Route: 3003 (Prouty Road)

SPRINGTIME ALERT – DO NOT DISTURB YOUNG WILDLIFE

Whether in their backyards or high on a mountain, it’s almost certain Pennsylvanians will encounter young wildlife this time of year.

While some young animals might appear to be abandoned, usually they are not. It’s likely their mothers are watching over them from somewhere nearby.

So when encountering young wildlife, be it deer, birds, raccoons or other animals, the best thing you can do is leave them alone.

“Well-intentioned people might step in to help a young animal that appears to be alone, not realizing its mother is nearby and it’s not in need of help,” said Matthew Schnupp, the Game Commission’s wildlife management director. “That’s one reason why leaving young wildlife undisturbed in the wild typically is the best solution when encountering young wild animals.”

Adult animals often leave their young while they forage for food, but they don’t go far and they do return. Wildlife also often relies on a natural defensive tactic called the “hider strategy,” where young animals will remain motionless and “hide” in surrounding cover while adults draw the attention of potential predators or other intruders away from their young.

Deer employ this strategy, and deer fawns sometimes are assumed to be abandoned when, in fact, their mothers are nearby.

The Game Commission urges Pennsylvanians to resist the urge to interfere with young wildlife or remove any wild animal from its natural setting.

Such contact can be harmful to both people and wildlife. Wild animals can lose their natural fear of humans, making it difficult, even impossible, for them to ever again live normally in the wild. And anytime wildlife is handled, there’s always a risk people could contract diseases or parasites such as fleas, ticks and lice.

Wildlife that becomes habituated to humans also can pose a public-safety risk. Some years ago, a yearling, six-point buck attacked and severely injured two people. The investigation into the incident revealed that a neighboring family had illegally taken the deer into their home and fed it as a fawn, and they continued to feed the deer right up until the time of the attack.

It is illegal to take or possess wildlife from the wild. Under state law, the penalty for such a violation is a fine of up to $1,500 per animal.

Under no circumstances will anyone who illegally takes wildlife into captivity be allowed to keep that animal, and under a working agreement with state health officials, any “high risk” rabies vector species confiscated after human contact must be euthanized and tested; it cannot be returned to the wild because the risk of spreading disease is too high.

Animals infected with rabies might not show obvious symptoms, but still might be able to transmit the disease. Though any mammal might carry rabies, the rabies vector species identified in the agreement are: skunks, raccoons, foxes, bats, coyotes and groundhogs.

People can get rabies from the saliva of a rabid animal if they are bitten or scratched, or if the saliva gets into the person’s eyes, mouth or a fresh wound.

Only wildlife rehabilitators, who are licensed by the Game Commission, are permitted to care for injured or orphaned wildlife for the purposes of eventual release back into the wild. For those who find wildlife that truly is in need of assistance, a listing of licensed wildlife rehabilitators can be found on the Pennsylvania Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators website, www.pawr.com.

If you are unable to identify a wildlife rehabilitator in your area, contact the Game Commission region office that serves the county in which the animal is found so that you can be referred to the appropriate licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Region office contact information can be found under the title “Connect with Us” at the bottom of the www.pgc.pa.gov homepage.

Estate Sale May 15, 16 & 17 in Coudersport By Appointment

Coudy Shop 'N Save New Hours

Camron County Probation And Parole Has Postions Available

Morgan Advanced Materials Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Virtual Candidate Forum for Republican Candidates in 25th Senatorial District Thursday

Man arrested after domestic

On May 14, 2020 the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) out of SP Amity arrested Randy G. Parker, 35, of Little Genesee, NY for Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd degree (D Felony), Reckless Endangerment 1st degree (D Felony), Making Terroristic Threats (D Felony), Criminal Mischief 3rd degree (E Felony) and Menacing 2nd degree (A Misdemeanor).

On May 14, 2020 at 1:00 P.M., Troopers out of SP Amity responded to a domestic dispute on Sanford Hollow Road in the town of Genesee. The complainant advised Troopers that Parker had left the scene and made threats to harm law enforcement if they were contacted. While patrols were in route, Parker went back to the residence and was attempting to gain entrance into the residence by force. Troopers were arriving on scene when Parker went into a wooded area with a weapon. Parker exited the woods and surrender to Troopers once a perimeter was being established. Parker was arrested and transported to SP Amity.

Parker was arraigned and remanded
to Allegany County Jail.

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service State College PA
647 PM EDT Fri May 15 2020
...STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT PARTS OF MCKEAN AND POTTER
COUNTIES UNTIL 730 PM EDT...

At 647 PM EDT, Doppler radar indicated strong thunderstorms along a
line extending from near Bradford to near Rew to near Cyclone.
Movement was east at 40 mph.

Wind gusts 40 to 50 mph are possible.

Strong thunderstorms will be near...
Rew around 650 PM EDT.
Coryville around 700 PM EDT.
Smethport around 705 PM EDT.
Shinglehouse around 710 PM EDT.
Port Allegany around 715 PM EDT.
Roulette around 725 PM EDT.

Other locations impacted by these storms include Eldred, Lewis Run,
Oswayo and Bradford Airport.

Naatje "Nancy" (Okhuysen) Arbeider, 77, of Germania, Potter County, PA formerly of North Brunswick, NJ

Naatje "Nancy" (Okhuysen) Arbeider

Naatje "Nancy" (Okhuysen) Arbeider, 77, of Germania, Potter County, PA formerly of North Brunswick, NJ, passed away surrounded by family Monday May 11, 2020 at the Inpatient Hospice Unit at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown. 

Born December 12, 1942, in Utrecht, The Netherlands, Naatje was the daughter of the late Arie and Theodora (Broekman) Okhuysen. On September 16, 1963 she married Adriaan A. Arbeider who passed away in 2018. 

Naatje became a proud American citizen in 1974. She was employed as the Food Service Manager of the North Brunswick Township School District and the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, in New Brunswick, NJ before retiring in 1997.

 She enjoyed traveling with her husband all over the world, visiting with family and friends and spending time with her dog, TJ.

Surviving are her son Daniel A. Arbeider and his wife Christina of Orefield, PA; grandson Adriaan J. Arbeider of Orefield, PA; her brothers Jacobus, Theodorus, Hendrikus, and Arie; her sisters Hendrika, Adriana, and Anneke.

Service: Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. No public calling hours. The Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc. in Schnecksville is in charge of arrangements. Online expressions of sympathy may be recorded at www.heintzelmancares.com.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box #196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.

RECALLS

Mellace Family Brands California Inc. (Johnvince Foods) Recalls Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate nonpareils, 18.5oz (1lb 2.5oz) 524g Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen
MELLACE FAMILY BRANDS CALIFORNIA INC. (JOHNVINCE FOODS),located at 655 North River Road, Unit C, Warren Ohio 44483-2254, is recalling Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate nonpareils, 18.5oz (1lb 2.5oz) 524g because it has undeclared MILK allergen on the retail label. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to MILK run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

This product was distributed within Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Product was sold to consumers through Wegmans retail stores.

The retail unit is a plastic tub with a tamper evident seal and pre-printed label. Brand “WEGMANS”, product description WEGMANS SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE NONPAREILS, 18.5OZ (1LB 2.5OZ) 524g UPC: 77890-49787. Best by dates: 12/18/20 and 12/28/20

Summitt Labs Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of KORE ORGANIC Watermelon CBD Oil Due to High Lead Results
Summitt Labs is voluntarily recalling Batch#730 Lot#K018 of KORE ORGANIC Watermelon CBD Oil Tincture, 30 ml bottle, 15mg 450x to the consumer level. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services tested a random sample and found the product to contain lead levels at 4.7 ppm. When informed of this, Summitt Labs issued an immediate voluntary recall and started an internal investigation. As part of this investigation Summitt Labs had a sample from Batch #730 Lot #K018 tested at an ISO/IEC accredited lab. Lead results were 500 ppb (.5ppm), which is within the legal limits as defined by the State of Florida. However, based on the test from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Summitt Labs initiated, and will complete, a full recall of Batch #730 Lot #K018 in full cooperation with the FDA and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Summitt Labs is an inspected and licensed facility under the Florida Department of Food and Agriculture and Consumer Services to produce products containing CBD but the Federal Food and Drug Administration does not consider CBD to be a legal drug or dietary supplement.

Ingestion of KORE ORGANIC Watermelon CBD Oil Batch #730 Lot #K018 containing lead could result in high lead exposure. According to the Florida Department of Health, acute lead poisoning could have signs and symptoms including but not limited to; Pain, Muscle Weakness, Paresthesia, Abdominal Pain, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Poor appetite, Weight Loss, Symptoms associated with encephalitis, Metallic taste in the mouth, Shock, Hemolysis, and Kidney Damage.

Man Transported To Robert Packer Hospital After One Car Crash In Jackson TWP.

Millerton Man Charged With DUI In One Car Crash In Jackson TWP.

Wellsboro Dispatched To Rollover Crash on Rt. 287

At 4:19 PM on Friday, Wellsboro Fire & Ambulance have been dispatched to the area of 6802 Rt. 287 for a vehicle rollover on its roof in the ditch.

Gerald G. "Jerry" Boser, 85, of 108 Hemlock St., Bradford, PA

Gerald G. "Jerry" Boser

Gerald G. "Jerry" Boser, 85, of 108 Hemlock St., Bradford, PA, went to be with the Lord on Friday, May 15, 2020 at the Bradford Manor.

Born February 8, 1935, in Allegany NY, he was the son of the late Carl and Mary (Gleason) Boser. He was a graduate of Olean High School.

On October 27, 1956, in St. John's Church in Vandelia, NY, he married Nancy L. (Dickerson) Boser who passed away February 10, 2011.

Jerry started his working career with his father at the Boser Farm in Allegany. Later he and his brothers opened South Bradford Fruit Market. He later in life did lawn maintenance for area families.

Jerry was a member of First Wesleyan Church. He loved fishing but his greatest joy came when he was at his camp at Chautauqua Lake.

Surviving are three daughters, Cherie (Roy) Price of Roxboro, NC, Christine Goetz and Michelle (Kevin) Zimmerman all of Bradford, seven grandchildren, Michael, Sarah, Jason, Amber, Justin, Nicole, and Bryan, seven great grandchildren, Jaylyn, Joshua, Jenna, Jonathon, Jaylynn, Heaven, and Addyson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, step mother Leona Boser, a daughter Merry Melody Boser, one grandson, Michael John Schoolmaster, three brothers, Thomas Boser, Ronald Boser, and Brian Boser, and an infant sister.

Private services will be held for the family with the Rev. Terri Niver Pastor of the First Wesleyan Church, officiating. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.

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

Memorials contributions if desired, may be made to the SPCA PO Box 113, Bradford PA 16701, a charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Fox Kit Photo by Kira Bonawitz

Lois Ann Olmstead, 86, of Port Allegany

Lois Ann Olmstead

Lois Ann Olmstead, 86, of Port Allegany, died Friday (May 15, 2020) in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.

She was born April 9, 1934 in Port Allegany, a daughter of Leon and Lila Main Hultz. On Feb. 12, 1967 in Newell Creek, Eldred, PA she married Charles Olmstead, who survives.

Mrs. Olmstead attended Port Allegany Schools.

Lois was a homemaker and loved being with her family.

She was a 4-H Leader, a Director on the McKean County Fair Board, a member of the Rabbit Club of Olean, NY and was huge animal lover.

Surviving in addition to her husband Charles, are one son: James (Monica) Gotshall, Jr. of TN

Two Daughters: Joy (Kim) Fortner of Port Allegany and Jill (Tom) Jordan of Smethport .

Seven grandchildren and one step grandchild

Eight great-grandchildren and one step great-grandchild

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Marion Hultz, one sister Vida Brennen and a grandson, Clinton Jordan.

There will be no visitation or services at this time.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to the McKean County SPCA, 80 Glenwood Ave., Bradford, PA 16701. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

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

...STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT PARTS OF ELK...MCKEAN...POTTER... AND CAMERON COUNTIES UNTIL 315 PM EDT...

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service State College PA
220 PM EDT Fri May 15 2020
...STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT PARTS OF ELK...MCKEAN...POTTER...
AND CAMERON COUNTIES UNTIL 315 PM

At 219 PM EDT, Doppler radar indicated strong thunderstorms along a
line extending from 6 miles southeast of Westline to Johnsonburg.
Movement was east at 45 mph.

Wind gusts 40 to 50 mph and half inch hail are possible.

Strong thunderstorms will be near...
Kinzua Bridge State Park and East Branch Dam around 230 PM EDT.
Smethport, Crosby and Truman around 240 PM EDT.
Elk River and Betula around 245 PM EDT.
Port Allegany and Emporium around 250 PM EDT.
Sizerville and Roulette around 255 PM EDT.
Keating Summit around 300 PM EDT.

Other locations impacted by these storms include Austin, Ulysses,
Mount Jewett, Oswayo and Sweden Valley.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Persons in campgrounds should consider seeking sturdy shelter until
these storms pass.

Route 220 Safety Improvement Project Continues Next Week

​Montoursville, PA – Motorists who travel Route 220 are advised that lane restrictions will be implemented next week in Woodward and Piatt Townships, Lycoming County.

Work will be conducted during off-peak hours to minimize traffic impacts. Work will include guiderail removal, shoulder widening, sewer relocation and overhead utility relocation. Miscellaneous construction activities will continue through the next week with paving operations expected late-May.

Motorists can expect alternating lane closures during off-peak hours.

Lane Restrictions on I-80 EB and WB in Montour County

​​Montoursville, PA – Motorists who drive Interstate 80 are advised that lane restrictions will be implemented in both the eastbound and westbound lanes in Liberty Township, Montour County.

Work will begin on Sunday, May 17, at 7:00 PM and is expected to be completed on Friday, May 22, at 6:00 AM, weather permitting.

The right (driving) lane will be restricted while the contractor, HRI, Inc., will be excavating and replacing deteriorated concrete slabs as well as replacing deteriorated pipes. This is part of a 6-mile roadway restoration project.

Motorists can expect lane restrictions at the following locations:
• Interstate 80 eastbound at mile marker 221, right (driving) lane will be restricted.
• Interstate 80 westbound at mile marker 223, right (driving) lane will be restricted.
• Interstate 80 westbound at mile marker 217, right (driving) lane will be restricted.

Shinglehouse Ambulance to Health Center

At 12:31 PM on Friday, Shinglehouse Ambulance to Health Center for difficulty breathing.

Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Remains Closed Through Next Week

Capitol Update by Rep. Martin Causer

Facebook Website Bio Latest News State Forms Photo Gallery Contact Capitol Update Friday, May 15, 2020 The latest news from the State Capitol  Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account. You are welcome to contact me through this link. House Votes for Local Control, Safe Reopening As the COVID-19 emergency and the governor’s business closure order move into a third month, I again stood up for the people of rural Pennsylvania by voting to support the safe reopening of small businesses and give local officials some say in how they operate during a disaster declaration.   Senate Bill 327 recognizes a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in our diverse state and would authorize county officials to develop their own emergency mitigations plan for business, in consultation with health and emergency management officials, to reopen their economies when it can be done so safely. Recognizing the economic devastation small business owners and many of their employees have experienced, I also voted for two bills that would require waivers to allow several business sectors to resume operating statewide, if they choose to do so and can do so safely. The bills affect vehicle dealerships, lawn and garden centers, cosmetology salon and barber shops for hair services, messenger services, animal grooming services, manufacturing and residential and commercial real estate services. While some of these businesses are open locally and in other “yellow phase” counties, it was important to vote on these bills in response to the lack of fairness, openness and transparency in the current business waiver system. The administration finally released a list of businesses that were awarded waivers last week but, in defiance of a legislative subpoena, has yet to outline the criteria used to make those decisions. Lawmakers have been working for weeks to bring some clarity and consistency to the process. Each of the bills will now go to the governor’s desk. To help restaurants, clubs and food establishments, I am also cosponsoring legislation that would allow outdoor and indoor seating to resume in areas of the state in the yellow or green phases of mitigation. These measures were approved by the House State Government Committee this week and await action by the full House. Citizens Fighting for their Livelihoods Deserve Better Last weekend, state and local officials from several counties still classified in the most restrictive “red” phase of the governor’s COVID-19 mitigation efforts announced their intention to start reopening their economies regardless of the governor’s directives. At a press conference on Monday, the governor called these citizens and their leaders “cowardly” and accused them of “deserting” the state’s war on COVID-19. I was both angered and disappointed by the governor’s comments. People who are struggling to feed their families and protect their livelihoods deserve respect from their governor, not name calling. He has, time and again, refused to acknowledge the failures of his unemployment compensation system, which has left many people without an income for at least two months. Approximately 1.8 million citizens were forced to file for unemployment since the governor issued his business closure order, a rate that is among the highest in the nation because of the governor’s exceedingly restrictive orders. We cannot and should not dismiss the health risks associated with COVID-19, especially for people with other underlying conditions. But we also cannot and should not dismiss the social and economic impacts that have resulted in increased drug overdose and suicide rates, incidents of domestic and child abuse, as well as a growing list of small businesses that may not be able to recover from the extreme closure orders.   Bill to Help Safeguard At-Risk Seniors from COVID-19 The Senior Protection Act was introduced this week in response to the fact that nearly 70% of the state’s COVID-19 deaths have occurred in our nursing home facilities, personal care homes and assisted living residences. The bipartisan effort, led by Speaker of the House Mike Turzai, seeks to establish a coordinated, collaborative public-private-partnership approach of regional health system collaboratives. These health collaboratives would administer/manage personnel, protocols, testing and expenditures to protect the seniors in these facilities. The legislation was developed with the help of medical experts at UPMC with the goal of saving lives and giving families whose loved ones reside in these facilities peace of mind. Read more about the Senior Protection Act here. Additional bills being introduced to aid this vulnerable population would require the Pennsylvania Department of Health to conduct testing of all employees and residents in long-term care facilities and prohibit the department from requiring nursing homes and other long-term care facilities to admit COVID-19 patients without first confirming a negative test for the patient. Previous orders by Secretary of Health Rachel Levine required nursing homes to readmit COVID-positive patients despite the risk to other residents and staff. Levine announced this week the department will start testing all residents and staff and require a patient to be free of COVID-19 before being readmitted.   Primary Election June 2 The primary election is now just over two weeks away. Regardless of the status of your county of residence (red or yellow), voters may choose to either vote by mail or in person. Even if your county is still under a stay-at-home order, you can vote in person if that is your preference.   Details and deadlines are below.

What’s New?

The Department of Health this week distributed the investigational antiviral medication, remdesivir, to treat patients in the hospital with COVID-19. The federal government distributed the first shipment of 1,200 doses to the department on Tuesday and those doses are being shipped to 51 of the state’s hospitals. The receiving hospitals were chosen based on the number of COVID-19 patients at the hospital over a recent seven-day period, and the severity of the illness of those patients, based on whether they are on a ventilator. Remdesivir is given to a patient through an IV once per day for up to 10 days, depending on how critically ill the patient is. According to the FDA, remdesivir may help decrease the amount of coronavirus in the body, helping the patient recover faster.

To help reduce the number of people coming into driver and photo license centers, PennDOT announced it will use existing photos on file for customers who renew their driver’s license and identification card. All customers who renew online or through the mail will receive a new product using the most recent photo that exists in PennDOT’s system. No camera cards will be issued to these customers, and they will receive their new product by mail within 15 days. The renewal process is complete when the final product is received. PLEASE NOTE: People who renewed BEFORE May 10 will receive a camera card in the mail and must visit a photo license center to obtain an updated photo. Additionally, non-U.S. citizens must also visit a driver’s license center in person to complete a transaction. For a list of reopened locations, visit www.dmv.pa.gov. Expiration dates on driver’s licenses, photo ID cards, learner's permits and camera cards scheduled to expire from March 16 through May 31 have been extended until June 30. For more information and an update on REAL ID products, click here.

PennDOT also announced an extension of expiration dates for vehicle registrations and safety and emission inspections. Items scheduled to expire between March 16 and May 31 are now extended through June 30. Persons with Disabilities parking placards scheduled to expire from March 16 through May 31 are also extended through June 30.

Despite the ongoing pandemic, the U.S. Census Bureau recently announced it will begin a phased restart of some of its field operations to help ensure an accurate count. All returning staff will receive safety training to observe social distancing protocols in the COVID-19 environment. For their safety and the safety of the public, the Census Bureau has ordered Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for all field staff, including those who work in a field office. These materials will be secured and provided to staff prior to restarting operations. For more information, visit www.2020census.gov.