SWEDESBORO, N.J. (October 21, 2026) – Wedgewood Pharmacy LLC (“Wedgewood”) is recalling certain compounded veterinary medications within expiry at the provider/customer level due to inconsistencies in the reliability of certain analytical testing data generated by their laboratory, potentially resulting in subpotent and/or superpotent products. The affected products were shipped between February 18, 2026 and October 6, 2026 to veterinary practices, pharmacies, and other customers nationwide in the U.S. The issue was discovered through Wedgewood’s own quality processes. A complete list of affected products (including powders, pastes, oral suspensions, injectables, ophthalmic ointments and solutions, ear solutions and suspensions, topical sprays, and gels), lot numbers, and expiration dates are available at www.wedgewood.com/recall-lookup/. The products involved are intended for companion, equine, exotic, zoo, wildlife, and aquatic animals. They are not intended for use in food-producing animals.
Hazard Statement: The health risks involved with low potency can include ineffective treatment and the health risks involved with high potency can include toxicity or overdose. To date, Wedgewood has received 98 complaints, of which 7 are serious. Customers should contact their veterinarians if they have medical concerns.
Coudersport, Pa., Oct. 23, 2026 – UPMC Cole and Sweden Valley Manor are teaming up to offer a larger Halloween celebration for children and families across the community on Thursday, Oct. 29, 5 to 7 p.m.
The evening will begin at UPMC Cole, where classic nursery rhymes will be brought to life through creatively decorated stations, costumes, treats, and activities. Through support from the Cole Foundation, each child who attends will also receive a nursery rhyme book to take home while supplies last.
After completing the Halloween Path at UPMC Cole, families are invited to continue the celebration at Sweden Valley Manor with additional trick-or-treating and Halloween festivities. Admission is free and open to the community. Families are encouraged to wear costumes and bring treat bags.
Families can purchase food during the event from Darby’s Barbeque, which will be on-site at UPMC Cole, and Driveway Diner, which will serve guests from 4 to 7 p.m.
Catherine “Cathy” Crystal Hackett of Bradford, passed away peacefully at Olean General Hospital on October 22, 2026.
Born on December 10, 1940 in Olean NY, she was a daughter of the late Herman and Ethel (McIntosh) Burlingame
Cathy Lived an extraordinary life during her 85 years. Some of her greatest times and memories were made with her nieces whom she was very close to. You gals know who you are. When she married Dick in 1981 a new set of adventures began with more family, children, grandchildren and travels. In the late 1990’s they retired to Florida where they spent 29 years. After the death of Dick she moved back to Bradford to be closer to family. During her last two years she has had some very special caretakers who she was forever grateful for. She truly had a love for life. She will be greatly missed.
She is survived by two sons, Patrick J. (Lori) McGarry Jr and James A. (Bonnie) McGarry Sr., one daughter, Michelle (Rodney) Greene, one daughter-In-love, Billie Jo Wheeler, one sister Joan Miller, two brothers, Roger (Judy) Burlingame and Richard (Teresa) Burlingame, one brother-in-law, Lige Schick and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, five sisters, six brothers, loving husband Richard “Dick” Hackett, one son, Dickie Hackett, daughters, Carol Ann McGarry, Debbie Hackett, and Robin Hackett, two grandchildren, Amy Johnson and Michael Johnson and many nieces and nephews.
Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Cathy’s Life on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 409 Derrick Road, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Carmen Pascarella Jr, 91, formerly of Penfield and North Rose, NY, passed away on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Carmen was born at home in Bradford, PA on November 21, 1934. He was the third of seven children, born to Carmen Pascarella Sr and Elvira (Alviti) Pascarella, members of a proud and close-knit Italian family.
He graduated from St Bernard School in Bradford in 1953 after twelve years of Catholic education. During his school years, he served as an altar boy, and played football and basketball. Inspired by the influential Sisters and coaches in his life, Carmen developed a love of teaching that would shape his future. A particular cherished reminder of his faith was the rosary given to him by Father Grady which remained in his pocket until his passing.
In 1954, Carmen was drafted into the United States Army where he served for two years with the 594th Field Battalion in Giessen, Germany. He was a driver of the 155 Howitzer, one of the largest artillery pieces of its time. He also played football for the Temporary Duty Division Team (TDY).
Following his honorable discharge, Carmen attended Mansfield State Teachers’ College from 1957-1961. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education, and earned varsity letters in football for four years, and golf for two years. He was also a member of both the “M” Club and the Newman Club.
While in college, Carmen met the love of his life, Margaret DiFonzo, at a social dance in Bradford. They married in 1958, and eventually made their home in North Rose, NY in 1961. Here, they raised their two children, Carmen “Nuch” and Tammy, their true devotions.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that a Bradford man who was arrested during a raid at a residence on Belleview Avenue by the McKean County Drug Task Force in January has pled guilty to his crimes.
Raymond KELLEY pled guilty before a judge during a plea hearing at the McKean County Courthouse on October 15th. KELLEY was the third defendant arrested during the raid at that residence to plead guilty. KELLEY pled guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance/Possession with Intent to Deliver (Felony) (drug deliveries on December 30th and January 20th and one additional possession with intent to deliver cocaine on January 20th ) and one count Conspiracy Delivery of a Controlled Substance (Felony). McKean County Drug Task Force Detective Seth Shephard was the investigating officer. Sentencing was scheduled for November.
At the time of the raid, District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer highlighted the importance of community tips to the Detectives with the McKean County Drug Task Force. She said: “Drug tips by citizens and business owners often are the catalyst for a drug investigation that leads to an arrest and, with it, the removal of a suspected trafficker from the community. Tips that have led to arrests and, ultimately, conviction have been received by the County Detective Bureau at the District Attorney’s Office from citizens across the county from Kane to Bradford.
If you suspect illegal drug activity, please call Chief County Detective Ryan Yingling at the District Attorney’s Office at (814) 887-3312 or leave a tip at McKeanDA.org.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that a Port Allegany man who previously pled guilty to selling methamphetamine has been sentenced to state prison. Mackenzie GREEN was sentenced during a hearing on October 16th. GREEN was sentenced to state prison for at least 8 months to no more than 24 months. He was ordered to pay lab fees, restitution to the McKean County Drug Task Force, and other terms. McKean County Drug Task Force Detective Kolin Strawcutter was the investigator on the case. If you suspect illegal drug activity, please report it to Chief County Detective Ryan Yingling at the District Attorney’s Office at (814)887-3312 or leave a tip at McKeanDA.org
Audit examines management & operations and identifies 20 recommendations for improvements
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has released the results of a detailed Management and Operations Audit of UGI Utilities Inc. (UGI) which includes 20 recommendations for improving operations.
The review examined key functional areas at UGI, which provides electric service to about 63,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in portions of Luzerne and Wyoming counties, and natural gas distribution service to approximately 706,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in 46 counties across Pennsylvania.
The Commission voted 5-0 at today’s PUC public meeting to release the Audit Report, along with the Implementation Plan that was submitted by UGI to address recommendations in the report.
As a follow-up to the Audit Report released today, the PUC directed UGI to submit implementation progress reports annually for three years. The PUC will also conduct a Management Efficiency Investigation to examine the Company’s implementation efforts related to the more significant recommendations included in the audit report.
By a 4-1 vote, the Commission modified the recommended decision of PUC Administrative Law Judge Katrina L. Dunderdale, resulting in National Fuel’s initial rate request being reduced by nearly one half. The Commission also approved a one-time bill credit to low-income customers, authorized a new Energy Efficiency pilot, and directed several enhancements to strengthen National Fuel’s customer assistance programs (CAPs) and consumer outreach efforts.
National Fuel last filed for an increase in natural gas distribution rates in October of 2022.
Revenues and Rates
The Commission approved an adjustment of approximately $10.448 million (3.94%) in National Fuel’s total annual operating revenues – approximately 47% less than the co…
(Washington, D.C., October 22, 2026) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development today announced the expansion of the Delegated Authority Lender Interactive Test Environment (LITE) Pilot Program for the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program. USDA Rural Development selected six additional lenders to participate in the pilot program: Bangor Savings Bank; Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation; New American Funding, LLC; PennyMac Loan Services, LLC; Pulte Mortgage; and Union Home Mortgage Corporation. These lenders will begin participating in the pilot program on December 1, 2026.
(MCKEAN COUNTY, Pennsylvania: October 22, 2026): District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that a Bradford man has been convicted by a jury after a trial held at the McKean County Courthouse on October 19th.
Michael SCHOONOVER was charged by Captain Raymond Douglass of the City of Bradford Police after Captain Douglass and other officers were dispatched to a Lincoln Avenue residence in April for a report of a man threatening two females. SCHOONOVER fled the scene prior to police arrival but was located by police a short distance from the scene.
SCHOONOVER was charged with 2 counts of Terroristic Threats, Resisting Arrest, and Possession of Small Amount of Marijuana. The jury found him guilty of all counts. Following the jury’s verdict, the Judge found SCHOONOVER guilty of three additional summary violations involving disorderly conduct and harassment.
Assistant District Attorney Gregory Henry prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth. Captain Raymond Douglas was the lead investigator. Sentencing has been scheduled for December 3rd.
IT’S AN ESTATE REAL ESTATE AUCTION: SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLING HOME IN GOOD CONDITION, 2 BEDROOMS, MASTER AND A SMALLER BEDROOM. HAS A 38′ x 36 ‘ GARAGE WITH CEMENT FLOOR AND ELECTRICITY. THE HOME HAS A BATH AND A HALF AND 6 ADDITIONAL ROOMS, WALK-IN ATTIC, PAVED DRIVEWAY. NO BASEMENT
THE PROPERTY WILL SELL AT AUCTION AT 12 O’ CLOCK NOON. IT WILL BE AN ABSOLUTE AUCTION AFTER $50,000.
Thomas C. DUNN, 67, of Coudersport, PA, passed away Friday, October 9, 2026.
A gathering to celebrate Tom’s life will be held Saturday, October 24, 2026 at the Tri-Town Fire and Ambulance Hall, 810 S.R. 49, Ulysses, PA from 4:00 – 5:00 PM, with a brief service at 5:00 PM. Rev. Allen Long will officiate. Refreshments will be served after the service. Memorials may be made to the Potter County Fair.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Linda K. Price, 64, of Riley Road Apts., Bradford, passed away Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Penn Highlands DuBois.
Born on April 30, 1962, in Bradford, she is the daughter of Janet Mae (Helenbrook) Hulings who survives and the late Richard Andress.
Linda was a 1980 graduate of Bradford Area High School. After high school, Linda began working for Dr. Andrew Brodis. She later attended the Bradford Hospital Radiology Program and then worked in Radiology at Bradford Hospital. She later earned her CDL and drove School Buses for the Bradford Area School District as well as Olean, NY. Later she drove bus for Carrier Coach as a bus driver for the students at St. Bonaventure University.
Pennsylvania takes leading role in regional energy discussions as states confront rising energy costs, growing electricity demand, and a changing power grid
HARRISBURG – At a pivotal time for the future of Pennsylvania’s energy grid, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) Chairman Steve DeFrank has been elected president of the Organization of PJM States, Inc. (OPSI), giving Pennsylvania a prominent leadership role in regional discussions about rising electricity costs, growing energy needs, and decisions shaping the future of the regional power system.
DeFrank’s election comes as Pennsylvania and neighboring states face critical decisions about how to meet growing electricity demand, accommodate new energy development, maintain dependable electric service, and protect families and businesses from unnecessary energy costs.
“Pennsylvania has always been a leader in energy, and as our electric grid undergoes a historic transformation, we need a strong voice in the decisions shaping its future, and that of the PJM region,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “For too long, Pennsylvanians have faced rising electric bills without seeing the improvements in reliability they deserve. We hav…
The Potter County Farmers Market will be outdoors on the the courthouse lawn, every Friday from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm. The next market will be this Friday, October 23rd. Below is a list of who plans to be there and what they plan on bringing to the Market:
NOTICES:
*. THE FINAL MARKET FOR 2026 WILL BE OCTOBER 30TH.
* Market times have been established after many trial times over the years. If you are not able to visit us and would like something particular from one of the vendors, please contact them directly. They are willing to try to accommodate your request.
* If you are interested in joining the market this year or have any questions please contact …. Netra Baker, 814-598-0649netrabaker2@gmail.com]
VALLEY HONEY will be at the market on Friday. We will have various sizes of liquid honey, honeycomb, chunk honey, whipped honey, honey gift bags, honey sticks and beeswax for sale. We accept cash payments. Hope to see everyone there.
ME AND MY BOYS SOAP will be there on Friday. We will have a selection of goat milk based products. We accept cash or card payments. Only two more Fridays until the season is over. Stop by and stock up.
(Pictured: Coudersport Rotary President Greg Brink, Nicole Hafer)
At the September 28, 2026, meeting of the Coudersport Rotary Club, Rotarian Deb Rinehart introduced guest speaker Nicole “Nicki” Hafer, co-owner of Hafer’s Auto Repair and this year’s coordinator for Coudersport’s Wreaths Across America project.
(Pictured: Rotarian Jim Eberly, Rotarian Paul Herzig, Rotarian Lynn Fair, Rotarian Meg Benjamin, Coudersport Rotary President Greg Brink)
At its October 19, 2026, meeting at A&W West End Grill, the Coudersport Rotary Club welcomed Jim Eberly, Past District Governor for 2012–13 and Foundation Committee Chair for the State College/Downtown Rotary Club. Rotarian Paul Herzig introduced Eberly and encouraged club members to attend the State College club’s Thursday meetings.
Eberly presented a Certificate of Membership to new Rotarian Meg Benjamin and recognized Lynn Fair with a Paul Harris Fellow Plus One award, honoring her additional contributions to The Rotary Foundation. He also recognized Jim Plotts for an impressive 56 years of Rotary service.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (October 21) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is pleased to announce that it has certified a new state record Channel Catfish!
On the evening of Saturday, October 3, 2026, angler David Taylor, Jr., 44, of Munhall, Allegheny County, departed from the Southside Public Boat Launch in Pittsburgh on his 18-foot fishing boat. Taylor and his friend, Alex Atkinson, of Rillton (Sewickley Township), Westmoreland County, were fishing in in the Tri-State Hawg Hunters fishing tournament on the Allegheny River and had just set their lines below the Highland Park Lock and Dam near Sixmile Island.
“It was just after 8 p.m., and we had just started fishing that evening when Alex told me it looked like there was something tugging on my line, and I’d better grab it,” said Taylor. “I started reeling and I could tell right away it was a pretty big fish. I was able to keep steady pressure on the line and keep reeling until the fish surfaced. My initial thought, based on the color of the fish in the water, was that it looked like a Blue Catfish. I thought that was going to be a pretty special catch since we really haven’t seen those big blues up here in Pennsylvania yet.”
Taylor’s heavy-duty baitcasting rod had been set up with 40-pound test monofilament line with a Carolina rig and 10.0 circle hook baited with a chunk of cut Mooneye. Upon retrieving the catfish with a landing net and removing the hook, which had been set neatly in the corner of the fish’s mouth, the fish was placed into a large livewell on the boat. While Taylor and Atkinson continued fishing throughout the night, it wasn’t until Sunday morning during the tournament weigh-in at the Southside Public Boat Launch that another angler suggested to Taylor that his huge catch might actually be a very large Channel Catfish.
“You can tell a Channel Catfish from a Blue Catfish by counting the rays on its anal fin, because Channel Catfish always have less than 30 rays while Blues have at least 30,” added Taylor. “We counted 26 rays, and at that point, we looked up the state record for a channel cat. We were pretty excited because we thought it was definitely heavier. Now, my biggest concern was keeping the fish alive while we could figure out what we needed to do.”
Later that morning, Taylor was able to locate a certified scale at Reddi Bait and Tackle in Bridgewater, Beaver County, where the fish was initially weighed in at 36-pounds, 2 ounces. But because the scale was not capable of producing a printout of the official weight, which is required under Pennsylvania’s State Record Fish Program Rules, Taylor made contact with Waterways Conservation Officer Abigail Luteri of the PFBC’s Southwest Region Bureau of Law Enforcement, and arranged to meet the officer at another location, Goodman’s Bait and Tackle in Ford City, Armstrong County, where a certified scale was also available.
“I told Officer Luteri on the phone that the fish seemed to be doing just fine in the livewell, but we had a pretty good drive ahead of us to get to the bait shop, and we were going to keep checking on the fish,” said Taylor. “I told her that my biggest concern was the health of the fish, and if I felt I had to, I would pull over and release the fish, even if it cost me a chance at the state record. Fortunately, this was tough fish, and we made it to the scale without any issues.”
At 11:45 a.m. on October 4, with WCO Luteri present at Goodman’s, the Channel Catfish again tipped the scales at 36 pounds, 2 ounces, officially exceeding the previous state record, which had been caught in the Lehigh Canal, Northampton County, in 1991, by 9 ounces. While only weight is considered for state record certification in Pennsylvania, Taylor’s fish also measured 42 inches long with a girth of 26 inches. Again, because the scale at Goodman’s was also not capable of producing a printout of the weight, WCO Luteri submitted a written statement certifying that she had examined the scale and witnessed the weigh-in and attached the statement to Taylor’s official State Record Fish application.
Following the weigh-in and in-person fish inspection by WCO Luteri, Taylor requested that Luteri accompany him to a nearby access point on the Allegheny River, where the large Channel Catfish, still in good health, was successfully released and able to swim away.
In addition to meeting the certified weigh-in requirement, Taylor completed a Pennsylvania State Record Fish application which included color photographs and detailed information about the catch, which was reviewed by the PFBC Division of Fisheries Management and confirmed.
“Everything worked out in the end, and it feels incredible,” added Taylor. “I want to thank my friend, Alex, the bait shops, and Officer Luteri for their help. Honestly, I’ve always dreamed of catching a state record, but I thought it would be a Flathead Catfish because we catch so many big ones out here in Pittsburgh. So, to catch a Channel Catfish that size? That just doesn’t happen. It just goes to show, you never know what’s on the other side of that hook. It could be just another fish, or it could be life changing. My advice to other anglers is to pay attention to your tackle and have confidence in your gear. Always make sure your line is strong and hooks are sharp for a moment like this.”
Anglers who are pursuing a state record, or think they have caught a state record fish, should follow these guidelines:
Obtain a copy of the Pennsylvania State Record Fish Application, which is available on the State Record Fish page of the PFBC website (Fishandboat.com).
Comply with all rules, including having the fish weighed on a scale that is certified by the state or county. Stores that sell products by weight are required to have a certified scale. Locations such as feed mills or agriculture stores often have scales capable of weighing large fish.
Fish may only be released after PFBC staff have examined the fish and approved the application.
The completed form, including color photographs, must be notarized and sent to the PFBC.
The PFBC will review the application upon receipt.
The PFBC reserves the right to further investigate the methods used in catching a fish and the accuracy of weight and measurements.
The PFBC reserves the right to reject any application.
Anglers catching a new state record fish will receive a certificate from the PFBC and be listed on the PFBC website.
Photos and video of the new Pennsylvania State Record Channel Catfish can be found here.
David Taylor, Jr., poses with his new state record Channel Catfish at the Southside Public Boat Launch in Pittsburgh on October 4, 2026
David Taylor, Jr., poses with his new state record Channel Catfish at Reddi Bait and Tackle Shop in Bridgewater, Beaver County, on October 4, 2026
Video: David Taylor, Jr., releases his new state record Channel Catfish at an undisclosed location along the Allegheny River on October 4, 2026
All photos courtesy David Taylor, Jr. via PFBC with permission to use by media.
Deer are becoming increasingly active this time of year and with daylight-saving time set to end on November 1, 2026, the Pennsylvania Game Commission is urging motorists to slow down and remain vigilant on the roads.
Autumn marks a surge in deer activity as the fall breeding season, known as the “rut,” approaches. During this period, many yearling bucks leave their birth areas in search of new territory, sometimes dozens of miles away. At the same time, adult bucks are actively roaming their home ranges in pursuit of doe, often chasing those they encounter.
The end of daylight-saving time means more vehicles will be on the road during dusk and dawn, which are the peak hours for deer movement.
“The rut is an exciting time for hunters but needs to be a time of heightened awareness for drivers,” said Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith. “Whitetails are ramping up their activity levels and expanding their home ranges, so it’s imperative that motorists exercise increased caution and attentiveness during this time of year.”
Data from around the country has shown that Pennsylvania drivers face some of the highest risks of vehicle collisions with deer or other large animals. However, drivers can reduce their chances of collisions with deer by staying alert, obeying the state’s cell phone laws and understanding deer behavior. Paying close attention while driving on stretches marked with “Deer Crossing” signs can make a difference.
Deer often travel in groups and walk single file. So even if one deer successfully crosses the road in front of a driver, it doesn’t mean the threat is over. Another could be right behind it.
A driver who hits a deer with a vehicle is not required to report the accident to the Game Commission. If the deer dies, only Pennsylvania residents may claim the carcass. To do so, they can call the Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-HUNT or 1-833-PGC-WILD and an agency dispatcher will collect the information needed to provide a free permit number, which the caller should write down.
A resident must call within 24 hours of taking possession of the deer. A passing Pennsylvania motorist also may claim the deer, if the person whose vehicle struck it doesn’t want it.
Those taking possession of road-killed deer are reminded that rules related to Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) are still in effect.
If a deer is struck by a vehicle but not killed, drivers are urged to maintain their distance because some deer might recover and move on. However, if a deer does not move on or poses a public safety risk, drivers are encouraged to report the incident to the Game Commission or another law-enforcement agency. If the deer must be put down, the Game Commission will direct the proper person to do so.
To report a dead deer for removal from state roads, motorists can call the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation at 1-800-FIX-ROAD.
Doris W. NICHOLS, nee Erway, 87, of Elizabethtown, PA, died Monday, October 19, 2026. Born February 26, 1939, in Raymond, she was the daughter of Preston A. and Minnie H. Mosch Erway.
She was married to Dale L. Nichols, who survives. A 1957 graduate of Northern Potter High School in Ulysses, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Medical Surgical Nursing and Administration from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Nursing and Wharton Graduate School. She advanced from staff nurse to V.P., Nursing and culminated her career as Assistant Professor, Coordinator of Clinical Services at the University of Utah College of Nursing.
Doris was known for her gregarious nature and thoughtfulness as she never missed an opportunity to send a greeting card. She was a gourmet cook and avid entertainer. She also enjoyed reading, gardening, traveling and antiquing. She loved spending time with her grandkids and had recently enjoyed visits with new great grandchildren.
Surviving besides her husband, Dale, are: three daughters, Tracy (William G.) Thomas of Southern Pines, NC, Karin (Rich) Marlin of Mechanicsburg, and Susan (Robert) Kiernan of Bethesda, MD; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a brother, Dale E. Erway of Genesee; nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 16 years, Joe R. Wardell, Jr.; two grandsons, Patrick Kiernan and William A. “Will” Thomas; two brothers, Preston M. Erway and Eugene F. Erway; and two sisters, Donna McCaslin and Rita Barnett.
A family gathering to remember Doris will be held on a later date. Burial will be in Raymond Cemetery, Genesee, PA. Memorials may be made to the WITF Tribute Page, “In Memory Of” Doris W. Nichols at https://donate.witf.org/witf/tribute.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.
HARRISBURG – With staffing challenges continuing to plague rural ambulance services in the Commonwealth, the state House today approved legislation to extend a regulatory exception that allows those services to continue tending to patients in need, said Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter).
House Bill 453 would extend for another five years the exception that allows basic life support ambulances to transport patients with a minimum of one emergency medical services vehicle operator (EMSVO) and one EMS provider licensed at the emergency medical technician (EMT) level or above.
“When lives are at stake, we can’t allow government regulations to get in the way,” Causer said. “By easing staffing requirements, we make it a little easier for our EMS responders to help patients get the life-saving care they need.”
Pictured (back row, left to right): George G. Blaisdell Elementary School Principal Kim Swanson; Bradford Rotarians Steve Morgan and Ben Kirsch; and Assistant Principal Wesley Lohrman, joined by GGB students displaying winter coats and boots provided through the Bradford Rotary Club’s annual Operation Warm.
The Rotary Club of Bradford is continuing its commitment to supporting local children and families by providing 125 brand-new winter coats to children throughout the community, from babies and toddlers to elementary school students.
With support from the Blaisdell Foundation and funds raised through the club’s annual Rotary Golf Tournament, the club is helping ensure that local children have warm clothing for the winter months. Rotarians also purchased winter boots for students at George G. Blaisdell Elementary School.
