NEWS
NY Alert: Road Closure on Route 36
NY Route 36 over Troups Creek, in South Troupsburg approximately 1.5 miles north of the Pennsylvania border closed
Capitol Update by Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint)
FacebookWebsiteBioLatest NewsState FormsPhoto GalleryContact Capitol Update Friday, August 18, 2023 You are welcome to contact me through this link. I recently had the opportunity to join colleagues from NW PA and officials with REV Renewables for a tour of the Seneca Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Generation Station at Kinzua Dam. Impressive facility and very important for maintaining the stability of our electric grid. More People Eligible for Property Tax/Rent Rebates Next Year More Pennsylvania seniors and people with disabilities will be eligible for increased property tax or rent relief next year under a new law approved by the General Assembly in July. Act 7 of 2023 increases income limits for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program for homeowners and renters to $45,000 annually. The law also raises the maximum rebate each homeowner or renter can receive from $650 to $1,000. Thanks to the new law, more than 150,000 additional individuals will be eligible for assistance, which is more important than ever due to rising costs driven by inflation. The expansion will be in effect next year when residents apply for assistance based on rent and property taxes paid in 2023. Those claims will be paid in 2024. There is still time to apply for the current year’s program, which is based on rent and property taxes paid in 2022. Apply online at mypath.pa.gov or contact my office for free assistance. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program benefits eligible residents 65 years and older; widows and widowers 50 years and older; and people with disabilities 18 years and older. Your Input is Needed for PA Master Plan for Older Adults The Department of Aging is currently gathering input on Pennsylvania’s Master Plan for Older Adults, a 10-year, state-led and stakeholder-driven strategic plan designed to help transform the infrastructure and coordination of services for older Pennsylvanians. To ensure local feedback is included in that plan, Office of Human Services, Inc. Area Agency on Aging for Elk, McKean and Cameron Counties is holding listening sessions in each county as follows: • Elk County: Tuesday, Aug. 29, from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Fox Township Senior Center, 365 Main St., Kersey. • McKean County: Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Greater Bradford Senior Center, 60 Campus Drive, Bradford. • Cameron County: Tuesday, Sept. 27, from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Emporium Senior Center, 105 E. 4th St., Emporium. If you are unable to attend the local sessions, there are other options for providing feedback. Learn more about the plan and other ways to participate here. Kane Senior Citizens Expo Sept. 8 Please join us on Friday, Sept. 8, for the Kane Senior Citizens Expo! Open to senior citizens and their family members and caregivers, the event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Sports and Fitness Gymnasium, Campus Drive, Bradford. The event is free to attend, and lunch will be provided. State, county and local exhibitors will be on hand to distribute information and answer questions about a variety of issues. Health screenings will also be offered, and door prize drawings will be held at 12:30 p.m. If you can’t make it this time, mark your calendar for our final expo of the year at the Roulette Fire Hall on Friday, Oct. 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information about the Kane expo, contact the Kane office at 814-837-0880. Information is also available at RepCauser.com or on Facebook at Facebook.com/RepCauser. PLEASE NOTE: Due to the expo, Causer’s offices in Bradford and Kane will be closed all day on Friday, Sept. 8. The office in Coudersport will remain open and may be reached by calling 814-274-9769. Slow Down for School Buses With students returning to class, school buses are or soon will be back on the roads. Motorists, parents and children are encouraged to refresh their memories about how to share the road safely. Pennsylvania law requires motorists stop at least 10 feet away from school buses when their red lights are flashing and their stop arm is extended. This applies to motorists when they are behind or traveling alongside a school bus, as well as those meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped. Vehicles should remain stopped until the red lights have stopped flashing and the stop arm is withdrawn. Do not proceed until all the children have reached a place of safety. Penalties for failure to obey school bus safety laws can result in a $250 fine, five points on a driving record and a 60-day license suspension. Parents are reminded to ensure their children are at the bus stop early to avoid rushing. Students should stay where the bus driver can see them while boarding or exiting the bus. Click here for more information and tips on school bus safety. New 511PA Features to Aid Little League Fans, Truckers, Human Trafficking Prevention The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) recently unveiled updates to its 511PA traveler information service. Motorists heading to the Little League World Series (LLWS) in Williamsport are encouraged to plan their trip using the real-time travel and alternate-route information available online at www.511PA.com/LLWS. The website is dedicated to monitoring traffic conditions on the primary travel routes to the event, including Route 15 south to Route 220 to Market Street (from north); Route 15 north (from south); Interstate 80 east to Route 220 north to Market Street (from west); and I-80 west to Route 15 north (from east). Commercial vehicle drivers can benefit from the new “PennDOT Bridges” feature on the 511PA traffic map. It shows locations for all state-owned bridges posted with weight or other limits, along with closed bridges. This information can be viewed on the web map and is also available as an alert that can be heard in drive mode on the mobile app. To combat human trafficking, PennDOT updated the 511PA Travel Links page to include new information for such crimes. Travelers can report suspected human trafficking via the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) tipline at 888-292-1919 or tips@pa.gov. 511PA also includes more information with recommendations from PSP on how to recognize and report suspected human trafficking. The 511PA mobile app and phone service have also been updated to provide travelers easy access for reporting suspected human trafficking activity. Call Before You Dig Aug. 11 marked National 811 Day – a day dedicated to reminding residents, contractors and utility workers of the importance of calling 8-1-1 before digging to help ensure the safety of excavation projects across the state. Every time an underground utility line is hit, there is a risk to the contractors or homeowners who are doing the digging; to utility workers and emergency responders who are mobilized to deal with the damage; and to bystanders who live, work or travel near the locations of the incidents. State law requires contractors and residents to contact PA One Call at least three business days prior to excavation – triggering alerts to all utilities within an intended digging area and prompting utilities to mark where their facilities are located. Pennsylvanians can dial 8-1-1 to connect with the One Call system, while out-of-state residents or businesses can call 1-800-242-1776. Learn more at www.PA1call.com. |
PA Permit Violations Issued
PA Permit Violation Issued to CHESAPEAKE APPALACHIA LLC in Wyalusing Township, Bradford County |
Description: Environmental Health & Safety violation issued on 8/16/2023 to CHESAPEAKE APPALACHIA LLC in Wyalusing Township, Bradford county. CSL 402(b) – POTENTIAL POLLUTION – Conducting an activity regulated by a permit issued pursuant to Section 402 of The Clean Streams Law to prevent the potential of pollution to waters of the Commonwealth without a permit or contrary to a permit issued under that authority by the Department. |
Incident Date/Time: 2023-08-16 00:00:00 |
Tags: PADEP, frack, violation, drilling |
PA Permit Violation Issued to DIVERSIFIED PROD LLC in Ferguson Township, Clearfield County |
Description: Environmental Health & Safety violation issued on 8/14/2023 to DIVERSIFIED PROD LLC in Ferguson Township, Clearfield county. 78.57(a) – CONTROL, STORAGE AND DISPOSAL OF PRODUCTION FLUIDS – Operator failed to collect the brine and other fluids produced during operation, service and plugging of the well in a tank, pit or a series of pits or tanks, or other device approved by the Department or Operator discharged brine or other fluids on or into the ground or into waters of the Commonwealth. |
Incident Date/Time: 2023-08-14 00:00:00 |
Tags: PADEP, frack, violation, drilling |
Missing – Female black cat from Pike Twp.
UPDATE: GNOCCHI IS HOME.
Missing – Female black cat, 4 years old, small white patch on chest and a rather short tail. Missing since Thursday on Pike Summit Road, Pike Township. Her name is Gnocchi. She is an indoor cat and is micro chipped. Will come to anyone if they put out the juice from a tuna fish can. If anyone sees her, please call 412-313-7825. She is a beloved family member.
Thank you.
Think About It
Arguing With God
By
B.J. Knefley
Have you ever argued with God? I have, numerous times, but it didn’t help. Some might say that we shouldn’t argue with God. I don’t know if that’s true. In a sense Christ argued with God in the Garden of Gethsemane. If not argued, at least questioned. Moses argued with God about his leading the people out of Egypt. But it didn’t work. God still won in the end.
Why do we argue with God? Is it because we believe our argument or are we just trying to get out of doing something? That seems to be the case with Moses. He stated all the reasons why he wasn’t the man for the job. God still insisted. Do we argue because we’re afraid? Or is it that we don’t feel adequate for the assignment? I remember a saying from years ago that went like this, “God can enable the unable, but not the unwilling”.
I’ve wondered at times if God is simply after our willingness. Perhaps like wanting my children to be willing. Willing to take risks or to step outside their comfort zones. Remember trying to get them to jump off the diving board or just the side of the pool and into your arms? Why do we all have such a difficult time letting go of what’s familiar to take the plunge into the unknown?
Trust me, I am not good at this. I, like the rest, bulk at God’s prompting to take a risk and step out of my comfort zone. Although I don’t mind change, I don’t like change that I’m not in charge of. Taking risks is easy when I’m in control, but God isn’t interested in our control but rather our trusting in His abilities. I guess that’s why it’s called faith. Faith in what can’t be seen or touched.
In the places where God has called people to follow him into the unknown or to go in new places, he always gives the promise that He’ll be with them. You’d think that with that kind of promise we wouldn’t bulk, but we do. When He’s called us to not be afraid because He’s with us, why do we still hesitate? Is it because with all our words about faith and trust, we don’t? Think about it.
Shapiro Administration Modernizes Commercial Driver’s Skills Test, Addresses School Bus Driver Shortage
The Administration continues to work to improve customer experience, expand Pennsylvania’s workforce, create opportunity and make Commonwealth services more accessible
Harrisburg, PA – In keeping with Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to expand Pennsylvania’s workforce and serve Pennsylvanians more efficiently, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that a new, modernized commercial driver’s license (CDL) skills test will be implemented at all PennDOT Driver License Centers that offer CDL skills tests and at all third-party CDL driving skill testers beginning August 28, 2023. As new technologies emerge, the modernized CDL skills test ensures that CDL drivers have the knowledge and skills to drive safely on the road while waiving outdated requirements that hold workers back.
COMMUNITY BLOOD BANK TO HOLD BLOOD DRIVE
PORT ALLEGANY, PA – Community Blood Bank is sending out an appeal to the community as the blood supply for the region plummets to dangerous levels. Hospital usage continues to trend upward as the number of people donating continues to decline. There is no better time than now for people, to roll up their sleeves.
Donate Blood. Save Lives. Go Shopping! All donors who donate blood with Community Blood Bank in August will be automatically entered to win a weekly drawing for 4 – $100 Walmart gift cards! That means 16 people will win $100 gift cards during the month of August.
“Each day premature babies are born, cancer patients rely on platelets, and accidents, emergencies and traumas happen – the need for blood doesn’t stop.” says Community Blood Bank’s Executive Director, Dee Rosenthal. “All types are needed, however, there has been a near constant critical need for type O.”
All blood types are needed, especially type O blood which helps meet the immediate needs of patients.
Please consider coverage for the following blood drive:
S.W. Smith Memorial Library on the bloodmobile
201 East Maple St, Port Allegany, PA 16743
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
CALL (814) 456-4206 TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TO DONATE. Appointments are encouraged to reduce your wait time but not required. Walk-ins are welcome.
Community Blood Bank partners with hospitals in Northwest Pennsylvania and Western New York to provide blood for patients in need. If you are at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good general health, you may be eligible to donate blood. You must have a valid photo ID in order to donate. Prior to donating, those giving blood should eat a good, solid meal.
Potter County Farmers Market Friday on Courthouse Square
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, August 18th. Below is a list of who plans to be there and what they plan on bringing to the Market:
[NOTICES:
* 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, 814-544-7313 netrabaker@hughes.net]
Potter County resident wins more than $580k in online lottery
POTTER COUNTY, Pa. (WETM) — The Pennsylvania Lottery has announced a resident in Potter County was recently awarded over half a million dollars in winnings from an online game.
The Pennsylvania Lottery said that the person won the online prize of $581,087.54 while playing the online Pennsylvania Lottery game Cave Quest.
Pipe Work to Close Honeoye Road Near Shinglehouse for Two Days
Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced today that a pipe replacement project along Route 4021 (Honeoye Road) in Sharon Township, Potter County, will begin Wednesday, August 30. Replacing the pipes will improve drainage along the roadway.
While crews from Potter County Maintenance are replacing the pipes, a detour will be in place from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. PennDOT will divert traffic onto Route 4014 (Plank Road), Route 4023 (Eleven Mile Road), and Route 44. It will reopen Honeoye Road at the close of each workday and expects to complete the project by the close of business on Thursday, August 31. All work is weather dependent.
PennDOT’s Potter County Maintenance Organization will perform all the work associated with this project.
Basic Sign Language and Intermediate Sign Language Offered This Fall!
How many times do we encounter hearing impaired people and wish that we could communicate with them? As we age, we gradually lose some of our hearing. Sign language can help. Also, mothers of pre-lingual children can use sign language as a tool with their little ones. Here is your opportunity to learn basic sign language that could help you or someone you care about.
Basic Sign Language will cover beginning sign language, the alphabet, conversational phrases and a variety of commonly used signs. In addition, basic facts essential to the correct use of the language will be addressed. A dedicated student could learn as many as 800 signs and understand signing and interpreting rules, basic deaf culture, and medical situations that cause deafness and loss of hearing.
Do you already know some signs but want to learn more to take your knowledge to the next level? Intermediate Sign Language will be a continuation of the introduction of signs (cities, states, countries, holidays, household items, religious terms, etc.), more conversational sign language, slang, and a discussion on political correctness as it pertains to signing, as well as to deaf culture.
Both Basic Sign Language and Intermediate Sign Language will be taught by Sheri Greene at the Education Council’s Coudersport office on Tuesdays and Thursdays, September 19 – October 31, 2023 (no class on October 19). Basic Sign Language is scheduled from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. Intermediate Sign Language is scheduled from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. The cost for Basic Sign Language is $160/person and the cost for Intermediate Sign Language is $160/person. The registration deadline is Tuesday, September 12th. To register or for more information, visit www.pottercountyedcouncil.org or call (814) 274-4877.