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Clearfield, PA – Although residents see Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) crews on the roads year-round, they may not always realize the integral role of low-cost maintenance activities in maintaining the state’s network of 40,000 roadway miles. One such activity is seal coating, more commonly known as “oil and chip.”

PennDOT typically employs seal coating on roads with low traffic volumes and speed limits of 35 mph or slower. This activity extends the life of those roads by keeping water out, which mitigates the damage caused by the freeze-thaw cycle of Pennsylvania winters and delays the formation of potholes and the oxidization process. Seal coating also restores the friction of the roadway surface and enhances traction.

In recent years, PennDOT District 2 has expanded its use of seal coating to roadways with higher traffic volumes and speed limits of 55 mph or faster as it strives to effectively manage and preserve its assets while being good stewards of taxpayer money.

PennDOT performs this activity in temperatures greater than 60 degrees, generally between April and September. Crews begin by sweeping the roadway clean of debris. Next, they apply emulsion oil and a layer of stone, which they then roll into place using a roller. Once cured, crews sweep any loose material from the roadway.

Generally, it takes about two days for the stones to bond to the hardened asphalt. Drivers frequently express concern about oil and chips coming free from the roadway and attaching to their vehicle’s undercarriage. PennDOT urges drivers to reduce their speed on roads that have received this treatment during the two-day curing period.

For more information on PennDOT’s Maintenance Activities, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/about-us/maintenanceactivities.

The check will not be in the mail, and neither will a paper application or a twice-stamped pink envelope.

Instead, hunters simply will buy their 2023-24 antlerless deer licenses wherever hunting licenses are sold.

The new process for obtaining antlerless licenses, made possible by a new law that took effect earlier this year, will get underway Monday, June 26 at 8 a.m., when antlerless deer licenses will be available alongside general hunting and furtaker licenses, and other licenses, permits and privileges.

Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) permits, which in previous years were available on the first day of general license sales, this year will go on sale Monday, Aug. 14 at 8 a.m.

Hunters essentially have two options in buying their licenses, they can go to a license issuing agent – there are more than 650 of them statewide at sporting goods stores, gun shops, big-box retailers, Game Commission offices and county treasurer’s offices – or they can purchase licenses online.

In either case, antlerless deer licenses have been added to the list of what’s available. An online customer who wants a general license and antlerless license must click to select those options, plus any other available licenses and permits they want (archery, bear or muzzleloader licenses, for example) before checking out. In-person customers relay that information to the issuing agent, who checks the appropriate boxes and prints the licenses and tags. Licenses and tags purchased online are sent to customers by mail within 10 business days.

That’s not to say a hunter can purchase an antlerless deer license at any time they want. Antlerless licenses, each of which can be used to harvest one antlerless deer within the Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) for which it’s issued, are available in limited numbers. The number of licenses to be made available within each WMU is set annually by the Game Commission based on the deer-management goals there. Once the available number is gone, no more are sold.

But there are controls in place to help ensure as many hunters as possible are able to purchase their first and subsequent licenses.

Even in this new, modernized process, the sale of antlerless deer licenses will follow a set schedule and system of rounds similar to what was in place when licenses were obtained by mail. Hunters may purchase no more than one antlerless license per round in the first three rounds.

The first round kicks off on Monday, June 26 at 8 a.m., but only Pennsylvania residents may buy initially. Sales to nonresidents begin on Monday, July 10 at 8 a.m.

The second round, in which a resident or nonresident may pick up a second antlerless deer license, begins on Monday, July 24 at 8 a.m. The third round begins at 8 a.m. Monday, Aug. 14, the same day DMAP permits go on sale.

Then in the fourth round, to begin Monday, Aug. 28 at 8 a.m., hunters may purchase additional antlerless deer licenses for any WMU where licenses remain until reaching their personal limit of six active antlerless deer licenses.

License fees

License fees for the 2023-24 license year, which begins July 1, remain unchanged.

General hunting licenses and furtaker licenses each cost $20.97 for Pennsylvania residents and $101.97 for nonresidents.

Resident senior hunters and furtakers ages 65 and older can purchase one-year licenses for $13.97, or lifetime licenses for $51.97. For $101.97, resident seniors can purchase lifetime combination licenses that afford them hunting and furtaking privileges.

Like other hunters and trappers, seniors still need to purchase bear licenses to pursue bruins, and obtain permits to harvest bobcats, fishers or river otters. Hunters who acquired their senior lifetime licenses after May 13, 2017 are required to obtain an annual pheasant permit to hunt or harvest pheasants.

Antlerless deer licenses continue to cost $6.97 each for residents and $26.97 each for nonresidents.

A complete list of license fees is available at www.pgc.pa.gov.

Online customers pay additional shipping fees for licenses. While a digital license stored on a mobile device might be all a hunter needs to carry in some situations, big-game hunters must carry their paper big-game harvest tags while hunting, as these must be completed and properly affixed to harvested big game before it’s moved from the harvest site.

Harvested bobcats, fishers and otters must be similarly tagged.

Elk license applications

Many hunters are accustomed to buying their elk license applications at the time they obtain their general hunting license, and they can continue to do so when 2023-24 licenses go on sale June 26.

Elk license applications for 2023-24 went on sale earlier this year, prior to the start of 2023-24 general hunting license sales. Sales close about two weeks sooner, too, with applications accepted through midnight July 16.

The earlier deadline to apply is tied to an earlier license drawing, to be held July 29 at the Keystone Elk Country Alliance Elk Expo, which previously was held in August.

The additional time between the license drawing and elk seasons undoubtedly will be appreciated by the lucky hunters who are drawn for elk licenses and must make plans for their hunts.

In 2023-24, 144 elk licenses (65 antlered, 79 antlerless) have been allocated across three elk seasons. For the one-week general season to run Oct. 30-Nov. 4, 30 antlered and 42 antlerless tags have been allocated. In the archery season open only in select Elk Hunt Zones, to run from Sept. 16-30, 18 antlered and eight antlerless licenses are available. And there are 17 antlered and 29 antlerless licenses available for the Dec. 30-Jan. 6 late season.

Hunters can apply to hunt in any of those seasons, two of them or all three. Each application costs $11.97. Applicants are entered into a lottery, and licenses are awarded by drawing. Those who aren’t chosen receive a bonus point that gives them an additional lottery chance in coming years. Bonus points continue to build up until a hunter is drawn, so the more applications a hunter has submitted over the years, the more chances they have in the next lottery.

If drawn, hunters must obtain an elk license, as well as a general hunting license. Elk licenses cost $25 for residents and $250 for nonresidents.

How soon must I buy?

With more antlerless licenses available this year in most WMUs, and hunters limited to buying one license at a time, it’s not as if anyone needs to buy their license at 8 a.m. sharp June 26 to get one.

But the question of how soon antlerless licenses in a given WMU might sell out is unknown. Because this is a new process, sales patterns might change. And licenses surely will sell at a faster rate because transactions will be completed by issuing agents statewide, as well as online customers, as opposed to the much smaller number of individuals who previously processed applications.

At the same time, the more people there are getting licenses at once, the slower the licensing system will operate. System testing prior to the start of sales has established thresholds for how much traffic the system can handle and has led to procedures that will help prevent the system from experiencing significant delays.

But when sales volumes are high, customers will experience longer waits. In particular, when sales volumes reach a certain level, online customers will be routed to a virtual waiting room, then brought into the sales site on a first-come, first-serve basis.

All of this means hunters will have to decide what is the best time for them to get a license.

Through the previous mail-in process, antlerless deer licenses for most WMUs usually were available through the first round. But in the handful of WMUs where licenses typically sell out earliest, that’s not always been the case.

So hunters must size up their own situations. If seeking an antlerless license in one of the more competitive WMUs, they might decide it best to buy sooner, even if it means a longer wait. If buying a license for a WMU where plenty are available, waiting to buy might be preferred as a better option.

By next year, there will be a clearer picture of sales patterns under the new process, which figures to create a lot of convenience in the long run.

JumpStart – Investing In Your Success

Take the First Step and Apply to Win $10,000 

Are you looking for grant funds to start or grow your farming business? Horizon Farm Credit is hosting the second annual JumpStart grant program for beginning farmers. The JumpStart grant program is an annual grant designed to support the growth of the next generation of farmers and facilitate their entry into farming. Applying is as easy as submitting your Business Plan, completing our free Ag Biz Basics course and submitting your application!

Applications will be accepted until July 31, 2023 at 4 pm.

LEARN MORE……

DEP Posts Solicitation For Bids To Plug 23 Abandoned Conventional Oil & Gas Waste Injection Wells Owned By ARG Resources, Inc. And Pennzoil Company In Elk County

PA Environmental Digest Blog

On June 16, the Department of Environmental Protection posted two solicitations for bids on BidExpress.com to clean out and plug 23 abandoned, conventional and permitted Class IIR oil and gas waste injection wells in Highland Township, Elk County.

One bid package covers 10 wells operated by ARG Resources, Inc. in the Allegheny National Forest.  

ARG Resources, Inc. is a company related to the American Refining Group which owns and operates the United Refining Company Plant in Warren, PA.  Read more about the company here.

The second bid package covers 13 abandoned, permitted, conventional injection wells operated by the Pennzoil Company in the Allegheny National Forest.  

Pennzoil Company is a multi-national oil company which makes a range of products for the consumer motor oil market.

DEP estimates each bid package will cost taxpayers between $500,000 and $1 million to plug the wells, or a total of up to $2 million.

There is a mandatory pre-bid meeting set for June 29 at Dj’s Russell City Store, 1536 Route 66, Russell City, PA.

To learn more about this program, visit DEP’s Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Conventional Oil/Gas Well Plugging webpage.

Letting Go

by

Pastor B.J. Knefley

Life, as you’ve probably noticed is not always easy. It’s full of choices and we don’t always make the best ones. We have to live with people, and people are not the easiest to live with. Sometimes we seem to think that if everyone were like us the world would be a much better place. The fact is, not everyone is like us. We are each driven by our own stuff Our belief systems, life experiences, family dynamics and a host of other things help to form and frame who we are. Our lives and our responses to what happens to us are all reflected in our behavior today. That’s part of the reason that letting go is so hard.

Have you ever wondered why a Bulldog’s face is shaped the way it is? It is so it can latch on to something and still breathe. You and I are not made the same way. When we latch on to something, we still have to breathe but we latch on anyway and it sucks the life right out from us. Perhaps it’s an old hurt, something someone has done to us, some unforgiven act, or just plain anger and resentment. Whatever the situation, we’re hanging on and not letting go like it was some treasured moment or memory. In the meantime, it’s consuming our energy, thoughts and even influences our behavior. We don’t let go for a variety of reasons all of which are taking their toll on our joy, peace, and even our health. So, what’s the answer?

Perhaps the place to start is to remember that judgement belongs to God. No matter the act or offense, we can never exact enough judgment to satisfy our needs. The only solution is forgiveness and forgiveness is simply removing the punishment that is due. Easy? Not at all. It is never easy, but in order to live and be free, one must do this. Whether we realize it or not the one that we are so angry with is going about their life without much thought about us. So, let it go! Sadly, when we allow situations or people to control us, we become slaves to that thing or person. They haven’t put us there; we’ve done it to ourselves. It all comes down to one simple word and I use it a lot, CHOICE. We have the CHOICE to stay in an unhealthy place or not. It’s always up to us. We have the power to move on. Think about it.

The Potter County Farmers Market will be outdoors on the square across from the county jail, every Friday from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm. The next market will be this Friday, June 16th. Below is a list of who plans to be there and what they plan on bringing to the Market:

[NOTICE: If you are interested in joining the market this year or have any questions please contact …. Netra Baker, 814-544-7313 netrabaker@hughes.net]

QUIET ACRES will be there with our selection of Haldeman Mills products – Teff Flour (African Ivory and Dark) for the gluten sensitive, Buttermilk and Buckwheat Pancake Mixes, Shortcake/Cobbler Mix, Funnel Cake and Soft Pretzel Mixes. Brinser’s Best Cornmeal.  On the craft side we will have upcycled braided rugs/runners/coasters of all sizes as well as aprons, kids and adults.  Orders are welcome. We accept cash payments.

CARD CREEK BAKERY will be at the market. We will have requested artisan breads, sweet breads,, and sweet treats for breakfast and desserts. There are always surprises on the table. Fresh brown eggs will be in the cooler. Requests are always welcome to be ready on market day or any other time.

BLUE MARBLE FARM will be at the market rain or shine with local, organically grown beautiful plants.  We will have Tomato plants, pepper and assorted herb and vegetable plants. It’s never too late to start a garden! We accept cash, credit cards, and SNAP. For more information, contact Lisa at bluemarblefarm@outlook.com, 814-320-1308 or bluemarblefarm.weebly.com 

ME AND MY BOYS SOAP will be there. We will have a selection of goat milk based products. They include soap bars, shampoo bars, lotions, lotion bars, and bath bombs. For more information contact us at meandmyboyssoap@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page. 

CARING CRAFTS will be attending the Market. We have a variety of patterns for our Homemade Travel Pillows. Colorful hand painted clothes pin Wreaths. A variety of plastic canvas ornament/magnet pieces thank include; NFL logos, character theme, military signs, animals, etc.. Stop by and see us and don’t forget to like/ message us your special order on Facebook @ Caring Crafts. We accept cash payments. Hope to see everyone there

The Assistant Director assists the Executive Director in the overall management and operation of the agency which provides services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Assistant Director will aid the Executive Director in each aspect of the agency including administration, fundraising, shelter/outreach services, and advocacy.

Functions and Responsibility:  Maintain records as they relate to the agency; assist with Administrative duties; be a Liaison with the Board of Directors; assist with Fiscal Responsibility; service provision; and grant writing.

Other Tasks: Performs other tasks within the purview of the position as designated by the Executive Director, maintain a positive work environment, disperse all pertinent information regarding client care, programmatic needs, building issues, and other necessary items to the Executive Director.

Education and Experience: Relevant experience in human services or a related field, Bachelor’s Degree preferred, Non-profit management experience, including fiscal administration, grant-writing, and staff supervision, strong skills in provision of domestic violence and sexual violence services, understanding of the dynamic of abuse, strong organizational skills, and strong public speaking skills,

Must Include a cover letter along with resume. Resumes can be sent to awayout@zitomedia.net

Required Skills/Abilities: Must be able to work independently, Able to work with the public and have good written and oral communication skills. Must successfully complete 40 hour Sexual Assault training and 40 hour Domestic Violence training, must have a valid PA Drivers License, access to a vehicle and be willing to transport victims, if needed. Must have the ability to work flexible hours and must be able to obtain ACT 33 and 34 clearances.  

The Sexual Assault Counselor will be responsible to facilitate community presentations and some school presentations throughout Potter County. It is a 40 hour a week position and may require some evening, weekend, and holiday hours.

Functions and Responsibilities: Maintain records as they relate to program services; Develop and coordinate community programs on sexual assault, domestic violence, and the services provided by the organization to the community; Assist in developing and implementing a presentation schedule to community organizations; Present education programs, as needed, to schools; Provide emotional support to adults and children; Provide intake interview to establish individual needs; Provide direct counseling; Provide information, resources, and referrals to service recipients; Assist in the recruitment and training of new volunteers; Assist in the maintaining of the agency data base. Must be able to obtain ACT 33 and ACT 34 clearances. 

Other Tasks: Maintain training hours to meet the required hours by the funders; Perform other tasks within the purview of this position as designated by the Executive Director.

Education and Experience: Associate Degree required; Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services/Social Work preferred, plus a minimum of two (2) years’ experience or comparable background and experience.

Must Include a cover letter along with resume. Resumes can be sent to awayout@zitomedia.net

Required Skills/Abilities: Must be able to work independently; Able to work with the public and have good oral and written communication skills; Must successfully complete 40 hour Sexual Assault Counselor training and 40 hour Domestic Violence Counselor training; Must have a valid PA Driver’s license, access to a vehicle, and be willing to transport victims, if needed; Must have the ability to work flexible hours.  

The Education Specialist will be responsible for facilitating all the programming to local schools and some community presentations. It is a 40-hour-a-week position and may require some evening, weekend and holiday hours. Salary will be discussed at the time of the interview.

Functions and Responsibilities:  Maintain records as they relate to program services; Develop and coordinate education programs on sexual assault, domestic violence, and the services provided by the organization to the community; Assist in developing and implementing a presentation schedule to community organizations; Present education programs, as needed, to schools; Provide emotional support to adults and children coming from violent homes; Provide intake interviews to establish individual needs; Provide direct counseling; Provide information resources, and referrals to service recipients; Assist in the recruitment and training of new volunteers; Assist in the maintaining of the ETO data base.

Other Tasks: Maintain training hours to meet the required hours by the funders; Perform other tasks within the purview of this position as designated by the Executive Director.

Education and Experience:  Associates Degree required; Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services/Social Work preferred, plus a minimum of two (2) years’ experience or comparable background and experience.

MUST Include a cover letter along with resume. Resumes can be sent to awayout@zitomedia.net

Required Skills/Abilities:  Must be able to work independently; Able to work with the public and have good oral and written communication skills; Must successfully complete 40 hour Sexual Assault Counselor training and 40 hour Domestic Violence Counselor training; Must have a valid PA Driver’s license, access to a vehicle, and be willing to transport victims, if needed; Must have the ability to work flexible hours; Must be able to obtain Act 33 and Act 34 clearances.