PAID FOR BY: Potter County Democratic Committee

On March 25th Coudersport Ambulance was dispatched to Maple View Lane for abdominal pain

HARRISBURG—With Pennsylvanians facing rising costs on everyday essentials, House Republican policymakers today launched their “Freedom Through Affordability” initiative – a plan to deliver tax relief and lower costs to make Pennsylvania a more affordable place to live, work, and raise a family.

The initiative, unveiled at a Capitol press conference, includes a package of six-month tax cuts and sales tax holidays, a multi-billion-dollar relief effort, aimed at providing immediate relief to families and workers struggling under the weight of higher prices.

Framing the effort, Rep. David Rowe (R-Snyder/Union/Mifflin/Juniata), chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee, emphasized the direct connection between affordability and opportunity.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (March 25) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) reminds anglers that Mentored Youth Trout Day will happen on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.  This is a statewide event open to youth anglers ages 15 and under and their licensed adult mentors on hundreds of waters in all 67 counties.

“This is a special day where our youngest anglers have a chance to have fun and learn fishing skills they can carry with them for a lifetime,” said John Mahn, Jr., PFBC Board President and District 2 Commissioner. 

The purpose of Mentored Youth Trout Day, created in 2013, is to provide an opportunity for young anglers to have fun while learning fishing skills a week before the large crowds arrive for the busy Statewide Opening Day of Trout Season on April 4, 2026. 

Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that work on a highway reconstruction project on Route 446 (Main Street) in Eldred Borough got underway on Monday, March 23. This project will improve the ride quality and extend the service life of approximately a mile of roadway between Route 346 (Derrick Road) and Mechanic Street.

Work got underway yesterday as the contractor began to mobilize equipment, saw cutting the existing pavement, and installing erosion and sedimentation controls. Flaggers in the roadway will provide traffic control for the duration of the project. PennDOT urges drivers to exercise caution when traveling through work zones, obey flaggers, and always buckle up.

Motorists are advised that the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) in coordination with Bridging Pennsylvania Developers I (BPD-I) will implement a traffic switch to Stage 2 and close Ramp B as part of the ongoing I-80 Lehigh River Bridge Project.

The contractor will implement a new traffic pattern on Interstate 80 westbound as early as March 26, 2026, at 9:00 PM, weather permitting. At the same time, the I-80 westbound Ramp B off-ramp to Route 940 will be closed.

The Potter County Education Council serving Potter and McKean Counties has three openings for part-time Career and Vocational Mentor-Aides to serve within the following school districts: Galeton Area School District, Oswayo Valley School District and Smethport Area School District.

These part-time positions are available beginning the 2026-2027 school year (approximately 25 hours per week).   It is anticipated that this will be a recurring position each school year (approximately 40 weeks each year). A job description may be reviewed at the Education Council Office at 5 Water Street in Coudersport, PA (814-274-4877) or by visiting our website www.pottercountyedcouncil.org.

• Minimum high school diploma. Associate or bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Appropriate work experience with older children (Grades 3-12).
• Knowledge or work experience in business or industry.
• Experience with Microsoft Office applications desired.
• Must have a valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License and safe driving history.

Interested applicants should send the following to the Potter County Education Council at 5 Water Street, PO Box 5, Coudersport, PA 16915 or via email to Dr. Michele Moore  mmoore@pcedcouncil.org:

• Resumé with cover letter
• Three current (less than one-year old) letters of professional reference
• Appropriate clearances including PA Act 151 Child Abuse Clearance, PA Act 34 Criminal Record Check, a current PA FBI Clearance (Education Versions)
• A negative TB test result

The cover letter should be addressed to Dr. Michele Moore, Executive Director. You may be asked to complete an employment application upon review of your initial application materials. E.O.E.

On March 25th Port Allegany and Roulette Fire Departments were dispatched to 74 Katherine St fir a working structure fire unknown if anyone is in the residence Coudersport fire is on standby. update the residence is vacant and the fire is under control

As winter finally gives way to warmer weather, many of us look forward to fresh air, blooming trees, and more time outdoors. However, for thousands of people in our region, spring also marks the start of seasonal allergies, bringing on sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and fatigue. Understanding what triggers these symptoms and how to manage them can make this season much more comfortable.

Common Allergy Symptoms

Symptoms of seasonal allergies can vary from person to person, but often include:

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Scratchy throat
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing or wheezing, especially in patients with asthma

This week, STORE WIDE 60% off!!

Bonus deal: All cards $1.50 on Thursday!!

Our hours will be:

Monday: 11-4

Tuesday: 11-6

Wednesday: 1-6 

Thursday: 11-6 

Friday: 11-6

Saturday: 10-4

PAID FOR BY: Potter County Democratic Committee

Marcella A. Stanisch

December 12, 1921 — March 23, 2026

Marcella A. “Sally” Stanisch, 104, a resident of Silver Creek Terrace and formerly of Virginia Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully after a long, full life on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Elk Haven Nursing Home following a brief illness.

She was born on December 12, 1921 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late Paul and Loretta Wehler Bankovich.

On May 22, 1954, in St. Marys Church, she married the late Maximilian “Boobie” Stanisch, who preceded her in death on September 30, 2013. They enjoyed nearly 59 years of love, laughter, and dancing whenever they got the chance.

Sally was a lifelong resident of the area and member of St. Marys Church, where she was active as a volunteer with the bereavement luncheons. She also volunteered for many years at the St. Marys Parochial School. Early on, she worked for a number of years at Pure Carbon. Sally was an avid Bingo player who also enjoyed bowling and playing cards. Most of all, she loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Michelle Eschrich, 48, of Lafayette Ave., Lewis Run, passed away Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

Born March 3, 1978, in Bradford, she was the daughter of Debi (McGarry) Nichols and Charlie Sherrick, who survive. 

Michelle was a 1996 graduate of Bradford High School and later attended Bloomsburg University before transferring to the University of Pittsburgh in Bradford.  

 On April 22, 2017, she married James C. Eschrich, who survives. Their story began on December 16, 2011, when Michelle met Jim, bringing with her a son, Wyatt, who quickly became a central part of the life they were building together. In 2014, they welcomed their daughter, Madelyn, completing their family. Together, they created a life full of love sprinkled with lots of laughter.  

She had previously been employed at East Resources in Olean, Dirt Excavating, Belser & Hale, and was currently the Human Resource Manager and Office Manager at PennHills Resources LLC.

Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus

HARRISBURG – Sen. Cris Dush (R-25), caucus chairman, and co-chairs Sen. Maria Collett (D-12), Sen. Marty Flynn (D-22), Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-28), Rep. Danilo Burgos (D-197), Rep. Kate Klunk (R-169), Rep. Clint Owlett (R-68), and Rep. Regina G. Young (D-185) announced today the formation and legislative priorities of a new bipartisan, bicameral group within the state legislature: the Pennsylvania Anti-Human Trafficking (AHT) Caucus.

The mission of the PA AHT Caucus is to facilitate the passage of AHT legislation; educate fellow elected officials, partnering organizations, and the public on AHT issues; and advocate on behalf of AHT organizations.

“Trafficking a person, especially a child, is a disgusting evil. Unfortunately, it is an evil that’s quickly growing into the number one criminal enterprise in the world; and it’s happening in our very own communities. We need to move quickly to pass the necessary legislation to facilitate the rescue and restoration of victims,” said Dush.  “This group of eight tremendous and innovative legislators have formed this caucus with the goal of speeding up passage of impactful legislation through evaluating and making bipartisan and bicameral recommendations to each of the four sets of leadership in the General Assembly and the governor.” 

“Every one of us deserves to live safe, healthy and dignified lives,” said Collett. “This new caucus will allow us to build on the progress we’ve made in advancing bipartisan anti-human trafficking legislation, strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders and send a strong message to the people of Pennsylvania: we are not backing down.”

Specific anti-human trafficking legislation unanimously endorsed by the AHT Caucus steering committee includes:

• Senate Bill 45 – Supported by the state Office of Attorney General, this legislation would move most prostitution-related offenses, such as patronizing prostitutes and promoting prostitution, to the Human Trafficking section of the state Crimes Code. The bill also expands the jurisdiction of the Attorney General’s office to better enable them to fight human trafficking across the commonwealth.

• House Bill 910 – This legislation would upgrade the offense of trafficking infants from a first-degree misdemeanor to a first-degree felony.

“Today, we’re taking a step forward — not as Democrats or Republicans — but as public servants united by a common goal,” said Burgos. “Human trafficking is a reality. It’s happening here in Pennsylvania. Statistics from the National Human Trafficking Hotline consistently rank Pennsylvania among the top states for reported cases.”

“Human trafficking is one of the most difficult issues we face because it often stays hidden. That reality calls for a more coordinated response,” said Flynn. “This caucus is focused on improving how we identify cases earlier and making sure victims have support when they come forward. It also means taking a closer look at how our laws are applied and where we can do better. This is ongoing work, and it requires people on both sides of the aisle to stay engaged if we’re going to hold traffickers accountable.”

The PA AHT Caucus also expressed gratitude to the following AHT-focused organizations that are supporting the formation of this Caucus: The Asservo Project, Bloom, Greenlight Operation, Laurel House, Mission Kids, Montgomery County Women’s Center, Taylor Diversion Program, ZOE International and Zonta. 

“Pennsylvania ranks among the top 10 states in the nation for human trafficking. This is a sad, disturbing reality our caucus knows we must address,” said Klunk. “That is why we’re working together to raise awareness and advocate for legislative action to combat human trafficking. A single victim of this heinous crime is too many. We are ready to collaborate with stakeholders, victims, and fellow legislators to make a lasting impact for our commonwealth.”

“One of the keys to stopping human trafficking is public education and awareness. I saw the value of this firsthand when a grandmother who attended one of my local human trafficking seminars last year told me many weeks later the information, she gathered there saved her granddaughter’s life,” Owlett said. “I am excited about the opportunity this caucus will present to educate all Pennsylvanians so we can help protect our kids and put these despicable criminals out of ‘business.’”

“Since I’ve been a legislator, I’ve been working to end human trafficking. It’s an unfortunate evil that lurks in our region because of easy access to interstate and international transportation hubs,” said Young. “The heartfelt testimony we have heard confirms the need to train hotel, motel and other lodging employees to be aware of the warning signs and reporting it. We can end human trafficking through education and speaking up for these most vulnerable victims.”

Human trafficking is real-time, organized crime — exploiting and enslaving millions of women and children and illegally generating more than $150 billion worldwide every year. 

“Human trafficking has no place in Pennsylvania. We have made real strides, but there is still so much work to be done,” said Phillips-Hill. “I hope our colleagues will continue to join us in this bipartisan fight to protect victims, hold traffickers accountable and strengthen our laws.”

“Being aware of the statistics and horrors of human trafficking is useless without taking serious legislative action,” Dush said. “As a retired law enforcement officer and member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I was proud to play an instrumental role in securing more than $2 million over the last two budget cycles to establish and expand the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Human Trafficking Section. With today’s official launch of the bipartisan, bicameral Pennsylvania Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus, I am greatly looking forward to working together collaboratively and shepherding even more high-priority anti-human trafficking initiatives across the finish line.”

Through force, fraud and coercion, human traffickers push their victims into demeaning forms of abuse, including domestic servitude and commercial sexual exploitation. If you suspect someone is being trafficked, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.

March 24, 2026

PA House Republicans to Unveil “Freedom Through Affordability” Initiative to Cut Costs for Pennsylvania Families

WHAT:  As Pennsylvanians are being priced out of everyday life, Pennsylvania House Republicans will hold a press conference on Wednesday, March 25, to launch its “Freedom Through Affordability” initiative—a targeted effort to lower costs and push back against policies driving up the cost of living across the Commonwealth.

WHO:  Reps. David Rowe (R-Snyder/Union/Mifflin/Juniata),

Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks), Eric Davanzo (R-Westmoreland), Abby Major (R-Armstrong/Westmoreland) and Joe Hogan (R-Bucks).

WHEN:  Wednesday, March 25, at 9 a.m.

WHERE:  Capitol Media Center, Room 1, East Wing, State Capitol, Harrisburg.

LIVESTREAM: Barring any technical difficulties, the hearing will be streamed online at www.policycommittee.com.

Media contact: Nancy Nilson, 717-260-6238, nnilson@pahousegop.com

On March 24th Kane Fire and Ambulance were dispatched to Rt. 6 In Wetmore Twp. for a rollover accident with one patient with possibly no injuries

Cherry Springs State Park is hosting a History Hike this Saturday, March 28, from 1 PM to 2 PM. Meet your guide at the kiosk by the restrooms on the Night Sky Public Viewing Area, on the north side of Route 44.

All ages. Walk will be about a mile over slightly hilly grassy and graveled ground. No registration needed. Sorry, no dogs, please.

The remains of lumber history are all around us!  Discover the rich history behind Cherry Springs State Park, growing from a small stop on a winding mountain throughway to a region hosting multiple Civilian Conservation Corps Camps.  

Counting down to America’s 250^th birthday on July 4, 2026, DCNR has partnered with America250PA to celebrate the role of Pennsylvania’s public outdoor spaces and their impact on the Commonwealth. Questions? Email lymanrunsp@pa.gov or call 814-435-1037 ext. 6.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for a ground beef product that may be contaminated with foreign material, specifically metal. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.