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Saturday, June 11, 2022
Galeton Fire Dispatched For Traffic Control at Crash
At 8:42 PM on Saturday, Galeton Fire Dept. has been dispatched to assist Galeton Police with traffic control at the scene of a vehicle crash at Main & Bridge Street.
PET PARADE TO BE HELD THIS MONDAY, JUNE 13 DUE TO BAD WEATHER PREDICTED FOR SUNDAY
Due to the threat of severe thunderstorms with lightning, the Pet Parade will NOT be held this Sunday, June 12 as originally planned.
Instead, judging and registration will begin promptly at 5:30 p.m. this Monday, June 13 and the Pet Parade will start at 6:30 p.m.
The Pet Parade is free. There is no an entry fee.
Children, ages 12 and younger with their pets and decorated bicycles should be at the Packer Park picnic area for registration and judging no later than 5:25 p.m. this Monday, June 13.
The Packer Park picnic area is located behind the parking lot at the Wellsboro Active Living Center (formerly the Wellsboro Senior Center) at 3 Queen Street in downtown Wellsboro.
The parade will travel from Queen Street onto Main Street to The Green where participation ribbons and goody bags will be given out. Also presented at The Green will be special awards in 21 different categories plus a trophy for the entry selected for the Dr. Shaw Award and a trophy for the entry named Overall Best in Parade.
For more information about this Laurel Festival event, call the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce office at 570-724-1926 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on June 13
Martha L. FRITH, nee Leach, 69, of Galeton, PA
Martha L. FRITH, nee Leach, 69, of Galeton, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 9, 2022 in her home. She fought hard with a very rare form of cancer but was unable to overcome it.
Born December 13, 1952, in Wellsboro, she was the daughter of Robert and Ida Ruth Miller Leach. On June 24, 1972, in St. Paul Lutheran Church, Galeton, she married Alan C. Frith.
A graduate of Galeton Area High School, she earned a degree in computer science from Williamsport Area Community College.
Martha worked for Karschner & Sons Insurance for over 35 years. She was a life-long member of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Galeton. She devoted much of her time to the church council as Secretary and Treasurer, and Treasurer of Galeton Food Bank. She also served as West Branch Township Inspector of Election. Martha loved every minute of time spent with her four grandchildren. She also enjoyed working in her garden.
Martha was predeceased by her twin brother, Martin Leach, in January of 2011.
She is survived by her husband Alan Frith, as well as two daughters, Rachel Pagano (spouse Jeremy) with three children, Olivia, Katelyn, and Zachary, and Joslyn Campbell with one child, Lylah. She has four surviving brothers, John Leach, James “Jimm” Leach, Robert Leach, and Gary Leach and their families.
Martha had many wonderful traits including her selflessness and generosity. She will be missed by friends and countless lives that she has touched throughout her life.
Burial will be in the West Hill Cemetery, Galeton. A small private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Paul Lutheran Church, 45 Pine St., Galeton, PA 16922 in Martha’s name.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Marjorie Gayle Lieberman, 87, Novi, Michigan
NORTHVILLE, Mich. - Marjorie Gayle Lieberman, 87, longtime resident of Novi, passed away April 18, 2022.
She was born on March 4, 1935 in Port Allegany, Pennsylvania; daughter of Howard E. and Stella Marguerite Winship Baker.
\Gayle, as she was lovingly called, is survived by five children, one son-in-law, seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren. She is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Gayle leaves behind her precious furry companion, Sara, a miniature poodle who filled her heart with so much love.
A graveside service will be held June 18, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Card Creek Cemetery, 271 Kim Hill Road, Roulette, Pa.
Following the service the family will hold a tree planting and memorial luncheon at 328 Card Creek Road, Roulette, Pa.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to Card Creek Cemetery, Alzheimer's Association, or Melanoma Research Alliance Foundation.
Edwin Gilbert Hamilton, 76, of Shippensburg, PA
Edwin Gilbert Hamilton, 76, of Shippensburg, PA passed away Sunday, June 5, 2022, following a long and courageous battle against ALS.
Born in Latrobe, he was the son of the late Edwin and Dorothy (Angus, Hamilton, Weinschenker). Ed was the husband of Pamela K. (Lefever) Hamilton, with whom he celebrated 38 wonderful years of marriage.
Family was everything to Ed and he will be missed greatly by his wife, Pam; his daughters Charly Althouse, of Harrisburg and Bobbi Morris, of Cains; his grandchildren: Abigail, Jacob, April, Angelica, Autumn, and Andria; 3 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; his sisters: Jean Sorber (Lyn), of Greensburg and Brenda White, of Latrobe; and brother-in-law, Bob Lefever, of Cains.
A 1963 graduate of Latrobe High School, Ed also 
Vietnam War Veteran
attended Stevens Trade School in Lancaster. Ed entered the US Navy proudly serving in Vietnam. After being honorably discharged, he had a long career as a Tool & Die designer and engineer and worked in new product development for Tyco Electronics until his retirement.
Also known as “The Mountain Man”, he and Pam built their Tioga County home with their own hands. He was truly an outdoorsman who enjoyed bowhunting, rifle, and muzzle loader. He loved trapping, fishing, ice fishing, camping, and traveling.
Family and friends will be received for visitation on Friday, June 17, 2022, from 9AM to 11AM at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home, 414 E. King St., Lancaster, PA 17602. A brief prayer service will follow at 11AM at the funeral home. Interment with a rendering of military honors will take place at 11:30AM at Riverview Burial Park, 1100 S. Duke St., Lancaster, PA 17602.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in Ed’s memory be made to the ALS Department at Hershey Medical Center, Department of Neurology, EC037, 30 Hope Dr. Hershey, PA 17033.
Morris Dispatched For Rollover Crash with Ejection
At 6:49 PM on Saturday, Morris Fire & EMS have been dispatched to a one vehicle rollover with ejection near 1856 Rt. 287. Air medical requested.
PITT-BRADFORD NAMED A COLLEGE OF DISTINCTION
For the eighth consecutive year, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has been named a College of Distinction for helping its students learn, grow and succeed, and also was recognized in seven individual areas.
Colleges of Distinction is an online guide for college-bound students that recognizes student-centered schools that traditional rankings may often overlook.
In addition to the general 2022-2023 recognition, Colleges of Distinction recognized Pitt-Bradford in the areas of public colleges and Pennsylvania colleges and for its programs in business, education, nursing, career development, and equity and inclusion.
The Colleges of Distinction’s selection process comprises a sequence of detailed interviews with the schools and in-depth research.
The schools selected for the honor must adhere to four distinctions: engaged students who take an active part in their own learning, great teaching that enables students to have meaningful interactions with their professors, a vibrant community where students receive a well-rounded college experience, and successful outcomes in which students are well-prepared for life after graduation.
Pitt-Bradford also received specialized recognition in business, education and nursing as well as career development, and equity and inclusion.
Colleges of Distinction said that the university’s programs in accounting, business management and economics excel at graduating students into the workforce with solid, well-developed critical-thinking skills as well as the ability to adapt in an ever-changing society.
Pitt-Bradford’s education programs prepare future educators who are not only knowledgeable but able to adapt to the constant changes in technology, public policy, employer demands, and more.
Pitt-Bradford offers education programs in biology; business, computer and information technology; chemistry, early level education preK-4; English; health and physical education; mathematics; and social studies.
The accredited nursing program was recognized as helping future nurses develop critical-thinking skills and preparing future nurses for an ever-changing society.
The career development badge recognizes schools with comprehensive four-year plans, advising and more. At Pitt-Bradford, that includes an Academic Advising Center, the Academic Coaching and Tutoring Center, TRIO Student Support Services, and Career Services.
Pitt-Bradford was also recognized for being a community dedicated to equal opportunity for all students, faculty and staff. Resources available for student support include a chief diversity and inclusion officer; academic minors focusing on Africana studies, gender, sexuality and women’s studies and international affairs; annual celebrations; and clubs and organizations that celebrate diversity.
For more information, visit collegesofdistinction.com.
This is the latest accolade Pitt-Bradford has earned. In the last year, Pitt-Bradford was named a Military Friendly School for the 12th year in a row; recognized by U.S. News & World Report; and was named one of the Best Northeastern Colleges by The Princeton Review.
Missing Dog in Port Allegany
Lost in Port Allegany. Male tan dog. His name is Burts. If seen, please call 814-598-7604.
PoCo Grows: Dealing with Groundhogs In and Around Your Garden
Photo courtesy of https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Groundhog,_eating.jpg
By Brent Bryant: Potter County Master Gardener Apprentice
PoCo Grows Column Introduction:
\This article is the first in what the Potter County Master Gardeners hope will be a series highlighting the joys and challenges of gardening in “God’s Country”. The plans for the early articles in this column were to highlight the native plants that are part of our community’s renewed pollinator garden. However, before our demonstration garden (located at the Potter County Extension Office on Water Street in Coudersport) can be fully realized, a small, furry obstacle stands in the way…
Recently the Potter County Master Gardener apprentices have begun work on a new demonstration garden near the new community garden in downtown Coudersport, PA. Immediately it became apparent that the garden site had an unwelcome tennant, a Marmota monax, commonly called a groundhog. Groundhogs are a member of the squirrel family and are also regionally called woodchucks and whistle pigs. Our particular groundhog has made snacks of our bee balm (Monarda didyma) and other native plants placed by our Master Gardener apprentices.
At the time of this article’s publication, humane efforts were being made by the Potter County Extension Office maintenance staff to remove their interloper. Below are some methods to consider when dealing with groundhogs in your gardens.
1. According to the University of New Hampshire, one should first consider electric fencing to deter unwelcome groundhogs from visiting your garden. Because they are a burrowing animal, groundhogs are best deterred by electric fencing. “An effective combination is one wire 4 inches off the ground and a second at 8 or 9 inches high” (Eaton & Tate, 2020).
2. The second method of groundhog control is agreed upon by the Universities of New Hampshire and Missouri. It is mesh fencing. A 2” by 4” mesh fence buried one foot beneath the ground and extending two feet above the ground can be an effective barrier. The barrier is even more effective if a 90 degree angle is made at the bottom of the fence extending away from the garden for one foot and an electrified strand is added to the top of the fence (Schwartz, n.d.). One might also consider bending the top of the fence away from the garden at a 45 degree angle, if not using an electrified strand, as groundhogs can climb (Eaton & Tate, 2020).
3. The third method of dealing with groundhogs involves live trapping. The most effective method to capture groundhogs is to place a 12”x12”x36” live trap at the entrance of the burrow and arrange guiding logs/planks toward the trap (Eaton & Tate, 2020). If this is not possible, placing the trap in another frequently visited location and adding bait such as lettuce, cabbage, apple slices, peas, or carrots to the trap is effective (Schwartz, n.d.). In either case, it may help to conceal the trap with canvas or natural materials and it is very important to take care not to receive a bite from the trapped animal (Schwartz, n.d.).
4. As a last resort, lethal methods may be considered. Fumigation using a gas cartridge, inserted in the burrow with a long branch, produces carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide to kill the inhabitants (Schwartz, n.d.). With this method, the burrow entrances, commonly two, should be sealed after inserting the cartridge (Eaton & Tate, 2020). Extreme caution should be used when dealing with gas cartridges.
In addition to the above methods, the university of new Hampshire also describes shooting, hiring a pest control company, capsaicin-based taste deterrents, and leg traps for groundhog removal (Eaton & Tate, 2020).
For more information on dealing with groundhogs in your garden, please visit the sources below or contact the Potter County Master Gardener Hotline (Call the office at 814-274-8540 Ext 103 and leave a message, or email questions to pottermg@psu.edu).
References
Eaton, A. T., & Tate, P. (2020, July). Dealing with Woodchuck Damage. UNH Extension. Retrieved June 6, 2022, from https://extension.unh.edu/sites/default/files/migrated_unmanaged_files/Resource000562_Rep584.pdf
Schwartz, C. W. (n.d.). Managing Woodchuck Problems in Missouri | MU Extension. University of Missouri Extension. Retrieved June 7, 2022, from https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g9452
PennDOT McKean County Maintenance work schedule for the week of June 13 – June 17, 2022
Cyclone, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation McKean County Maintenance announces the following work schedule for the week of June 13 – June 17, 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.
McKean County 0250
Sign Repairs and Upgrades:
• Various State Routes throughout the County
Bridge Repair:
• State Route: Various State Routes throughout the County
Mill and Fill: Expect Delays
• State Route: 3011 (Bridge Street)
Crack Sealing:
• State Route: 0006 (Hazelhurst Area)
• State Route: 0146 (Marvindale to Norwich Township)
Pipe Trench Patching:
• State Route: 0346 (Duke Center)
• State Route: 2001 (Clermont Road)
• State Route: 1006 (McCrae Brook Road)
The following work is scheduled to be completed by contractor, weather permitting:
PennDOT Cameron/Potter County Maintenance Work Schedule for the Week of June 13 – June 17, 2022
Emporium/Coudersport, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Cameron/Potter County Maintenance announces the following work schedule for the week of June 13 – June 17, 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.
Cameron County 0240
Bridge Repair: Detour in Place Starting Thursday June 16
• State Route: 4001 (Old West Creek Road)
Ditching:
• State Route: 4002 (Beechwood Road)
• State Route: 0120 (Elk County Line- Seg 370)
Brushing/Tree Removal:
• State Route: Various State Routes throughout County
Potter County 0260
Sign Repairs/Replacement:
• State Route: Various SR throughout County
Side Dozing:
• State Route: 0006 (Coudersport Area)
• State Route: 0049 (SR 44 Intersection to North Hollow Intersection)
Shoulder Grading:
• State Route: 0006 (Denton Hill Area)
Shoulder Stabilization:
• State Route: 3003 (First Fork Road)
Pipe Replacement:
• State Route: 3002 (Cowley Hill Rd)
Spray Patching:
• State Route: 3002 (Cowley Hill Road)
• State Route: 1010 (Genesee/ Mills Road)
Ditching:
• State Route: 1012 (Jackson Road)
• State Route: 1011 (Hickox Road/ West Bingham Road)
The following work is scheduled to be completed by the contractor, weather permitting:
Cameron County 0240
• Francis J. Palo, Inc: Bridge Repair on State Route 4004 (Rich Valley Road) in Shippen Township. There will be a Temporary roadway with stop and yield signs so traffic can alternate across the roadway for the duration of the project.
Potter County 0260
• Clearwater Construction Inc: Bridge replacement on State Route 4013 (North Hollow Road near intersection of SR 49) The road will be closed with detour in place.
• Forest View Evergreen Tree Farms: Roadside Mowing SR 0144 (Galeton – Cross Forks) SR 0044 (Cherry Springs to Lycoming County line)
Sizerville State Park Upcoming Programs
This Weekend Sizerville State Park is offering a variety of programs for all ages.
On Friday, June 17th from 3-4:30pm the park Naturalist is hosting a Native Species Hike for Pennsylvania’s Native Species Day! The hike will start at Sizerville’s Amphitheater and span for roughly a mile, participants should wear sturdy shoes or boots.
Friday Evening at 8-9pm Sizerville State Park will be hosting a short film at the Sizerville Amphitheater on Mammals! An educational film teaching visitors what makes an animal a mammal as well as the many different species variations.
Saturday, June 18th Sizerville State Park will be hosting a Stream Study in Cowley Run Stream. Join us as we explore the waterway in search of macroinvertebrates, such as crayfish! The study will take place across from Pavilion #3. Nets and buckets will be provided, water shoes are recommended.
Saturday Evening at 8-9pm Sizerville State Park has an educational short film on Amphibians! The film shows an inside look at what makes an animal an amphibian and the role they play in our environment. The film will take place at the Sizerville Amphitheater.
Sunday Morning June 19th at 9:30-10:30am Sizerville State Park has a Guided Nature Walk with the park’s Naturalist. Join us as we explore Sizerville’s forest and identify plant and animal species along the way! The walk will start at Pavilion #3 and span for roughly a mile, participants should wear sturdy shoes or boots.
Kane Ambulance To Central Towers for Crash
At 12:50 PM on Saturday, Kane Ambulance has been called to the parking lot of Central Towers for a motor vehicle accident.
Tioga, Lawrenceville Dispatched For Structure Fire
At 10:56 AM on Saturday, Tioga, Lawrenceville dispatched to 40 Tremaine Road in Tioga for working structure fire.
11:08 Second Alarm--Millerton, Nelson, Mansfield & Blossburg dispatched. Second alarm come in non-emergency.
Mansfield, Blossburg RECALLED. Fire is out. Extensive overhaul anticipated.
Shinglehouse Ambulance to Honeoye Street
At 10:26 AM on Saturday, Shinglehouse Ambulance has been called to Honeoye Street for chest pain.
Belfast, Angelica Dispatched For Possible Structure Fire
At 8:38 AM on Saturday, Belfast & Angelica have been dispatched to a possible structure fire at 7520 County Road 17 (White Creek Road.
Come to Galeton and Save $$$ At North Central Supply & The Shops of Quarter West
North Central Supply and The Shops of Quarter West,
25 West St., Galeton, Pa.
Some new items in ...
Lots of prehung doors ready to install..
Lots of new Spring decor and farmhouse primitives at Grammy's Shack..
New washer, dryers refrigerators and gas and electric ranges..
Save money and make the drive to Galeton!
Nobody beats our prices..period!
25 West St Galeton, Pa.
Open Tuesday through Friday 10-5 Sat. 9-4. quarterwest@gmail.com
We are back to our regular hours Tuesday through Saturday. Stop by for great savings
Friday, June 10, 2022
Roulette Ambulance to Trout Brook Road
At 7:43 PM on Friday, Roulette Ambulance has been called to Trout Brook Road for a person fallen.
Oil/Gas Frackers & Employees Get Criminal Charges For Ignoring DEP Regulations
AG Shapiro Charges Energy Corporation of America, Two Employees For Environmental Crimes
Leaks At Well Sites Impacted At Least Two Domestic Water Supplies In Clearfield and Greene County
HARRISBURG—Attorney General Josh Shapiro, in conjunction with the 46th Statewide Investigating Grand Jury, today announced that the Office of Attorney General’s Environmental Crimes Section has filed criminal charges against Energy Corporation of America (ECA), now Greylock Production, LLC (Greylock), for allegedly failing to address environmental hazards created by their operations from 2015 to 2020 at various well sites in Clearfield and Greene counties. John David Sollon, Jr., and Donald Supcoe, III, two employees who oversaw these projects, were also criminally charged.
“These employees oversaw the well sites in Clearfield and Greene County and blatantly ignored protocols related to storage of waste fluids associated with fracking. Over the years, ECA’s failure to adhere to regulations allowed contaminants to leak into soil and groundwater, contaminating at least two domestic water supplies,” said AG Shapiro. “By charging the defendants and the companies who employ them, we can both seek to hold them criminally accountable for these egregious acts and send a clear message to others about how seriously we take protecting the environment and public health. As Attorney General, I will do everything in my power to protect Pennsylvanians’ state constitutional right to clean air and pure water.”
Senator Cris Dush Mission Report
Senator Cris Dush
Please take a moment to review this week's mission report.
In this Update:
•Senate Approves Poll Watcher Empowerment Act to Increase Election Oversight, Integrity
•Senate Acts to Protect Women’s Sports
•Joint Hearing on Government Data Breach Notification
•Capitol Rally Aims to Stop Wolf Bridge Tolling Plan
•Scammers are Stealing Military Pensions
•Senate Local Government Committee Approves 4 Bills Including Energy Choice Legislation
•Applications Being Accepted for Transportation Safety and Mobility Project Funding
•Public Comment Solicited Regarding PA’s 2023 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program
•Tax Compliance for Restaurants Webinar
•National Fishing and Boating Week
https://senatorcrisdushpa.com/enews/060922-2/
Recent Obituaries at Buckheit Funeral Chapel
Jacqueline Kay Davies
Thursday, June 9, 2022
Althea Marie Keeney
Thursday, June 9, 2022
Sandra L. Marcusky
Thursday, June 9, 2022
Ronald L. Destefani
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
Donald Plank
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Margaret Seddon
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Rebecca Gordon
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Michael J. Standish, age 45, of Allentown, formerly of Westfield, PA
Michael J. Standish, age 45, of Allentown, formerly of Westfield, PA passed away at his mother's home in Knoxville on Wednesday, June 8, 2022.
Born December 1, 1976 in Norristown, PA, he was the son of John C. and Margaret (Standish) Perry, Sr.
Michael graduated from CVHS in 1996 and worked in the masonry business for Richard Souder Masonry in Telford, PA. He enjoyed playing video games, Pokemon, Magic: The Gathering cards and liked daffduffart.
He is survived by his mother, Margaret Perry of Knoxville; sisters, Desiree Seeley of Westfield and Vanessa Harman of Philipsburg, PA; two brothers, John Perry Jr. of Mansfield and Anthony Daigle of Bechtelsville, PA and nieces and nephews, Brandon Harman, Travis Mead, Onnaleigh Harman, Emmah Mead, Sequoyah Mead, Harmony Perry and Noah, Caleb and Jolene Daigle.
Michael was preceded in death by his father, John Perry Sr. and his wife, Jamie Standish.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Kenyon Funeral Home, 222 W. Main St., Westfield, PA 16950 or www.kenyonfuneralhome.com (payment button on home screen) to help the family with expenses. Arrangements are in care of Kenyon Funeral Home, Westfield.
Roberta J “Bert” Laktash, 76, of Eldred, PA
Roberta J “Bert” Laktash, 76, of Eldred, PA passed away at Bradford Manor on June 7, 2022.
Born in June 3, 1946, Roberta Goldsmith to Lawrence & Janet Goldsmith, she was a lifetime resident of Eldred. Roberta married her loving husband Anthony Laktash, Jr. on June 5, 1965.
Roberta was a bus driver for ATA for 30 years. She enjoyed horses, painting, needle work, puzzles, and playing cards.
Roberta is survived by her loving husband Anthony Laktash, Jr., two daughters Julie Schroll (Joel) & Julana Laktash, a brother Gary (Al) Goldsmith, five grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.
Roberta was preceded in death by parents Lawrence & Janet Goldsmith, two brothers David & Dana Goldsmith, and a son Anthony Laktash.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date and time that will be announced in a future edition.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Coryville Church of Faith and St. Jude.
Online condolences may be made at www.framefuneralhome.com
Oswayo Valley Historical Society to Meet June 13th
The Oswayo Valley Historical Society will be holding its June meeting at the Potter County Historical Museum in Coudersport on June 13th at 6:00PM.
We will be taking a tour of the museum and holding a short meeting afterwards.
Capitol Update by Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint)
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Officials with EmergyCare were among the EMS personnel participating in a press conference highlighting the need for more state support. I am pictured with David Basnak, president/executive director (left) and Todd Steele, director of operations. EmergyCare is based in Erie but from their station in Kane provide coverage to portions of McKean, Elk and Warren counties. |
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| Seeking Solutions: Policy Committee Hearings Tackle Inflation
As chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee, I hosted two hearings this week to examine the causes of inflation and how misguided and out-of-touch government policies are making the problem worse. Inflation has reached 8.6%, the highest we’ve seen in 40 years. Testifiers largely agreed the main cause of this historic inflation is the influx of printed and borrowed money injected into the economy by the federal government. Other contributing factors include overspending; policies that support large corporations over small businesses, like Gov. Tom Wolf’s pandemic shutdowns; and overregulation, including the attack on domestic energy that powers our homes, vehicles and businesses. In testimony Wednesday, Matthew Knittel, director of the state’s Independent Fiscal Office, warned the Commonwealth and the nation will likely be facing inflation well into next year and beyond, and those impacts will eventually catch up to the state budget. He encouraged us to take any steps possible to help alleviate the burden on taxpayers and employers. Treasurer Stacy Garrity said Thursday the state is likely to face a fiscal cliff by the end of the 2024-25 fiscal year and therefore encouraged us to save more in the state’s Rainy Day Fund rather than initiate new programs the state will not be able to afford down the road. To read a more detailed summary of the hearing, click here. To read testimony or watch video of the hearing, click here. The committee will further examine the issue of inflation in the coming weeks with hearings studying the impact of inflation on working people and their families (June 14) and long-term solutions to rising costs (June 21). Both hearings will begin at 9 a.m. and be streamed live at www.PAGOPPolicy.com. |
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| Bills to Improve Creek and Stream Maintenance, Prevent Flooding Pass House
Working to get government out of the way of local officials and landowners who simply want to maintain streams and clear debris to protect against flooding, I was pleased to support a half dozen bills that will either eliminate or streamline the process for permits from the Department of Environmental Protection. The bills were developed in response to a Policy Committee hearing I chaired with Rep. Clint Owlett held late last year in Wellsboro. House Bill 2405 would create a program that allows counties, in consultation with their county conservation district, to issue emergency permits for stream maintenance. This is modeled after a pilot project that has proven successful in Bradford County that could be expanded statewide. Watch my comments about this bill above. Other bills passed this week include those that would create a permit specific to smaller maintenance projects House Bill 2406 and clarify that no permit would be required for maintenance on a culvert (House Bill 2408), removal of flood-related hazards that are deemed to be an emergency by a state or county (House Bill 2409), and maintenance activities conducted within 50 feet of a bridge or culvert (House Bill 2410). An additional measure would require DEP to issue an annual report to the General Assembly regarding flooding and stream maintenance and restoration. The measures now go to the Senate for consideration. Two additional bills are slated for a final vote in the House next week. House Bill 2404 would allow government organizations to apply for a permit for continuing maintenance for a period of at least 10 years for the streams within their jurisdiction. House Bill 2407 would clarify the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has no authority for permitting or enforcement related to stream clearing or maintenance activities. This authority would belong solely to DEP and county conservation districts as appropriate. These bills represent the latest efforts by the House to cut red tape. I spoke at a press conference earlier in the week to highlight these efforts. Watch the video below.
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| Dedication of SSG Gerrith Kibbe Memorial Bridge
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Thank you to everyone who came out for the dedication of the SSG Gerrith Kibbe Memorial Bridge last Saturday in Roulette. It was an honor to meet his two children, Teresa and George, and other members of the Kibbe family, as we gathered to remember this dedicated soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice. Staff Sgt. Kibbe enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1961 and served with the 98th Maintenance Company, 86th Maintenance Battalion within Army operations. He was killed on June 24, 1967, while on duty in South Vietnam. Many thanks to American Legion Post 192 who helped organize the event, and all of the Legion and VFW members who came out to honor one of their own. Thank you also to Roulette Fire Company and Riverside Methodist Church. |
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Hunting licenses for the 2022-23 hunting season go on sale this Monday, June 13, and may be purchased electronically or in person. If you need to find a license issuing agent, or want to buy your license online, please click here. Before you purchase your first hunting license, you must pass a Pennsylvania Game Commission certification exam, which can be taken online or in a classroom setting. Please click here for details on taking the exam. Two other dates which are worthy of note are Monday, July 11, when antlerless deer licenses go on sale to Pennsylvania residents; and Sunday, July 31, which is the final day to apply for an elk license. To submit an elk license application, please click here. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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