Solomon's words (PAGE 2)

Sunday, August 21, 2022

FCCB Ranked #1 Bank in Pennsylvania and 55th Nationwide by American Banker

MANSFIELD, PA ― For the 15th consecutive year, FCCB (First Citizens Community Bank) has been recognized by American Banker as one of the top performing community banks, ranking first in the state of Pennsylvania where they are headquartered, and 55th in the nation. For this ranking, financial institutions are grouped by asset size and ranked based on three-year average return on equity from 2019 to 2021. In 2021, FCCB exceeded the $2 billion asset mark, resulting in a new peer group for comparison.

According to Claude Hanley, a partner at Capital Performance Group on behalf of American Banker, “Community banks with mortgage operations and competitive commercial lines of business were among those to win loans… and to drive organic growth.” Such proved to be true for FCCB, who reached an all-time high for consumer and business loan production during the pandemic while maintaining a low ratio of non-performing assets.

“FCCB is honored to be recognized once again by American Banker for our financial performance,” said Randall Black, CEO and President. “For over 150 years, we’ve built our reputation on being there for our customers and our communities, in good times and in bad. That has created tremendous customer loyalty which in turn provides the financial stability to expand into new markets, offer an extensive line of services for consumers and businesses, and implement the technology necessary to remain efficient and relevant. To be continuously ranked as a top-performing community bank is a testament to our values, to our ability to execute on a well-defined strategic plan, and to the incredibly hard work of our team.”

FCCB, whose initial footprint was the northern tier of Pennsylvania, has grown significantly over the past 7 years and is now $2.2 billion in assets operating 31 branches in 3 states. They now operate offices in Lebanon, Lancaster, Schuylkill, Centre, Clinton and Chester counties in PA, Wellsville NY, and in 2019 extended into the state of Delaware serving New Castle and Kent Counties. FCCB recently announced plans to open their 32nd office in Ephrata, PA and 33rd office in Greenville, DE before year end.

Citizens Financial Services, Inc., the holding company for FCCB, began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market on June 3, 2022 under the Company’s current ticker symbol CZFS. The uplisting represented a significant milestone for the Company according to Black. “In addition to raising our overall profile, we anticipate the uplisting will improve the liquidity of our stock, provide us with better access to capital and improved means to use our stock as acquisition considerations, and ultimately enhance long-term shareholder value.” Black, accompanied by his Board of Directors and senior management team will travel to NYC on September 6th to ring the closing bell on Nasdaq.

In addition to recognition for financial performance, FCCB has a history of being recognized for the value they place on social responsibility and good citizenship. Their efforts resulted in FCCB being ranked one of the top five banks in PA for their customer service efforts during the Pandemic. And in 2021, FCCB was recognized as a runner up for the Corporate Philanthropy Award, which recognizes a corporation or corporate foundation that demonstrates outstanding commitment through financial support and volunteerism, and one who encourages and motivates others to take philanthropic leadership roles in the community.

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

UPMC Provided $1.5 Billion in Community Benefits in Fiscal Year 2021, as part of over $4 billion in Total Community Investment

PITTSBURGH – UPMC has released its newly updated Community Benefits Report, showcasing its continuing commitment to the regions it serves throughout Pennsylvania, western New York, and western Maryland. The UPMC Community Benefits Report details how UPMC provided $1.5 billion in community benefits during Fiscal Year 2021, calculated using IRS guidelines. This is part of UPMC’s total community investment of over $4 billion, which includes local, state, and federal taxes paid, unreimbursed Medicare costs, investment in facilities, equipment, and technology, and does not include COVID-19 expenditures.

Last year, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, UPMC responded with commitment and compassion to keep individuals, families, and UPMC staff members safe. Although many in-person activities and initiatives were curtailed during this period, UPMC developed innovative solutions to continue access to important community programs — extending telemedicine capabilities and establishing COVID-19 vaccine and testing sites in underserved communities.

UPMC’s annual total economic impact of $46 billion has nearly doubled from five years ago. The health system’s spending has a multiplier effect that ripples benefits through local economies. As the Commonwealth’s largest non-governmental employer with over 90,000 employees, UPMC recently invested $300 million to support its workforce with enhanced pay and benefits.

UPMC’s $1.5 billion in community-focused programs last year equals $4.1 million per day, or over 15% of net patient revenue. According to the most recent publicly available data, UPMC contributes more community benefits than any other health system in Pennsylvania.

The $1.5 billion total includes:

- $444 million to make care more accessible for the most vulnerable residents in the communities UPMC serves, including $101 million in free or discounted care to 16,000 patients. UPMC also contributes a larger-than-expected share of the region’s charity care. While UPMC cares for 18% of patients in all of Pennsylvania, it provides 28% of the hospital charity care in the Commonwealth. In western Pennsylvania, UPMC hospitals care for more than half of all Medical Assistance patients.

- $473 million for community health and wellness programs and charitable contributions. UPMC provides nearly half of all funding for hospital-sponsored community health improvement programs statewide. From neighborhood clinics and support groups, to free medical equipment and transportation, UPMC provides more than 3,000 free and subsidized programs. These programs are aimed at addressing the most pressing needs as identified in the Community Health Needs Assessment, which include chronic disease management, behavioral health, access to care and navigating resources, and prevention and community-wide healthy living. Additionally, UPMC is working to reduce health inequalities in underserved communities across the Commonwealth, with initiatives such as the UPMC Center for Social impact.

- $593 million for medical research and education, advancing breakthrough treatments and cures while training the next generation of clinicians. UPMC funded more than half of all hospital-supported research in Pennsylvania. Along with the University of Pittsburgh, the organization’s educational institution partner, UPMC is ranked in the top 10 nationally in National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding, and has the nation’s third-largest medical residency program.

UPMC cares for a large share of high-need patients throughout all the regions it serves, bringing resources within reach to:

- 8 out of 10 substance use patients in Allegheny County.

- 7 out of 10 Medicaid patients in Bedford, Blair, and Somerset counties.

- 8 out of 10 pediatric patients from low-income families in Erie, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, and Venango counties.

- 6 out of 10 babies born to low-income families in the Dauphin County/ Harrisburg region.

- 7 out of 10 seniors in Clinton, Lycoming, Potter, and Tioga counties.

“UPMC prioritizes investing in initiatives and programs that address the most prevalent needs in the diverse communities that it serves,” said Edward Karlovich, executive vice president and chief financial officer, UPMC. “We recognize that the wellbeing of those we serve goes well beyond their physical health, and I am proud of the resources UPMC has contributed, especially in the midst of the challenges of a global pandemic, to ensure that these needs are addressed.”

“In addition to the clinical excellence found within each of our hospitals, our workforce is equally dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities where our employees and their families live,” added Mark Sevco, president, UPMC Hospitals.

Follow this link for the UPMC Community Benefits Report.

CREDIT: UPMC

Saturday, August 13, 2022

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Weekly Roundup

Visit PDA Roundup for full stories HERE

Traffic Congestion Likely During Little League World Series

Montoursville, PA – Motorists traveling to the greater Williamsport area over the next two weeks should expect congestion on local roadways, especially Interstate 180 eastbound and westbound, Route 220 northbound, and Route 15 northbound and southbound in Lycoming County, due to the Little League World Series.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) advises motorists to be prepared for an increase of traffic over the next two weeks and should plan for traffic delays, particularly in the South Williamsport and Williamsport areas.

Motorists should be prepared for changing traffic patterns, slow-moving or stopped vehicles and especially be on the alert for pedestrians crossing streets and highways.

Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras.

511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts.

Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in Tioga, Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Union, Snyder, Northumberland, Montour and Columbia counties at www.penndot.pa.gov/District3.

Information about infrastructure in District 3 including completed work and significant projects, is available at www.penndot.gov/D3Results. Find PennDOT's planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov.

Follow PennDOT on Twitter and like the department on Facebook and Instagram.

Wolf Administration Announces New Advisory Group to Support Healthier Pregnancies, Postpartum Care

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today announced the creation of the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Advisory Group appointing 16 members that will focus on providing support to increase healthier pregnancies and postpartum care.

These committed professionals will engage in efforts to improve the quality of services and support connections between WIC and other state services to address the social, health and educational needs of pregnant individuals, mothers, infants and children.

"From my work as an OBGYN physician, I know how important it is that women, children and infants receive the right nutrition during pregnancy, post-pregnancy and throughout the child's development," said Acting Secretary of Health and Pennsylvania Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson. "The advisory group will make recommendations to connect resources to women, infants and children across Pennsylvania to ensure the highest number of those eligible benefit from this program and are aware of the services available to them. I look forward to working with this group to identify solutions and positively impact Pennsylvania families for generations to come."

The WIC Advisory Group members include:

    Theodore Deitman, District Manager, Maternal and Family Health Services, Towanda
    Gerria Coffee, Owner and Founder, Genesis Birth Services, Williamsport
    Melanie Readal, Public Health Administrator, Allegheny County Health Department, Pittsburgh
    Charlotte Dorsey, WIC Education Manager, York
    Cathy Moffit, WIC Director, Mon Valley Community Health Services Inc., Monessen
    Raeni Yock, WIC parent, Johnstown
    Katja Pigur, Senior Director of Programs and Business Development, Maternity Care Coalition, Philadelphia
    Carol Gerner, Food Equity Ambassador, Pittsburgh
    Danielle Morgan, Distribution Center Coordinator, Genesis of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh
    Kelly Kane, Lead Physician at UPMC CCP, Altoona
    Lisa Sanchez, CPA and medical liaison, Community Health Services, Linesville
    Mim Seidel, Assistant Professor, Chatham University, Pittsburgh
    Britney Zwergel, Senior Director of Nutrition Services, Adagio Health, Pittsburgh
    Brian Whorl, Division of Federal Programs Director, Department of Human Services, Office of Income Maintenance, Bureau of Policy, Harrisburg
    Alex Baloga, President and CEO, Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association, Wormleysburg
    Michael Howells, Director of Research and Association Services, Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association, Wormleysburg

The WIC Advisory Group will hold its first meeting virtually next month.

Those interested in applying for support through WIC can apply online or via phone by calling 1-800-WIC-WINS.

The federal Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides federal grants to states for supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum individuals, and to infants and children up to age 5 who are found to be at nutritional risk. The program, administered at the state level by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, has helped Pennsylvania families since 1974.

Wednesday, August 10, 2022

OHS Graduates Receive Mary-Elizabeth Smith, as Well as Other CRCF-managed Scholarships

OLEAN, N.Y., August 8, 2022 – Seven Olean High School graduates recently received scholarship awards from funds managed by the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation.

Morgan Dowdell, Adele Dwaileebe and Lillie Malone all received the Mary-Elizabeth Smith Scholarship.

Dwaileebe and Malone received $1,150. Dowdell received $1,000.

This scholarship was established through the estate of Mary-Elizabeth Smith as part of the Olean City School District Scholarship Fund to support graduating Olean High School seniors annually.

Dowdell will begin studies in biology at Jamestown Community College. Dwaileebe plans to attend John Carroll University to study finance. Malone will study sociology and Korean at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Stella Gonzalez and Anaya Parks-Barker each received awards from the Louis W. Ensworth Charitable Foundation Trust Scholarship Fund.

This fund provides two annual scholarships each at Olean High School: One $500 award for a deserving student participating in the girls' basketball program at Olean High School, and one $2,500 award for a deserving student who will attend a 2- or 4-year college or trade school who has maintained a B or better average and has worked hard to achieve their academic success.

Gonzalez received the $2,500 award. She plans to study biomedical sciences at Susquehanna University.

Parks-Barker received the $500 award for a girls’ basketball player. She will attend Buffalo State College to study health and wellness.

Safia Javed and Hannah Nelson received the Signe, Svenborg, Agnes and Selma Johnson Scholarship for $1,150.

Established through the trust of Signe H. Johnson, this scholarship is given to Olean High School seniors with preference given to students who have strong educational/career goals or who plan to pursue a degree in teaching. The scholarship is named for Johnson and her sisters, Svenborg, Agnes and Selma, all of whom were Olean High School teachers.

Javed will attend Penn State University to study political science. Nelson plans to study pre-veterinary medicine at Daemen University.

Donations can be made any of these funds at CRCF, 301 North Union St., Suite 203, Olean, NY 14760 or online at cattfoundation.org.

Established in 1994, the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation is growing good by connecting donors to the causes they care about most in the region. Grants from the foundation support many areas, including education, scholarships, health care, the arts, community development, human service, and youth development. To learn more, call (716) 301-CRCF (2723), email foundation@cattfoundation.org, or visit online at www.cattfoundation.org. CRCF is also on Facebook (facebook.com/cattfoundation) and Twitter (@CattFoundation).

Scholarships Available for Leadership Cattaraugus Class of 2023

OLEAN, N.Y., August 8, 2022 — The Leadership Cattaraugus Scholarship Fund at the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation is now accepting applications to support tuition for members of the class of 2023.

The Leadership Cattaraugus board of directors established the scholarship fund in 2018 to make program tuition more affordable to worthy individuals applying to participate in the leadership program.

The Leadership Cattaraugus program began offering its leadership curriculum again 2022 after two years of cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, serving a class of 18 future community leaders.

The 2023 Leadership Cattaraugus cohort will take place from January through October. Applications are now being accepted at leadershipcattaraugus.org for the cohort, which will begin with a day-and-a-half retreat in January. Scholarship applicants must also apply for inclusion in the 2023 cohort.

The application is available at cattfoundation.org/apply-for-scholarships. Applicants must email their completed application to foundation@cattfoundation.org by September 30 to be eligible. The CRCF Scholarship Committee will review the applications and recommend the awardees.

The fund provides scholarships to cover the lesser of 25% of the cost of tuition or $400.

Applicants must live in and/or work in Cattaraugus County and be employed by a small (fewer than 100 employees) government entity, nonprofit or small business independently owned and operated in Cattaraugus County.

Applicants are judged by criteria including, but not limited to, the following:

• The individual is an existing or emerging leader as demonstrated by:

o Holds a leadership position in his/her organization or expects to move into a leadership position within his/her organization in the next six to 12 months.

o Serves as a formal or informal leader in his/her community. Examples include:

Serving as an elected official.
Leadership in a civic or faith-based activity outside of the workplace.
Coaching a sport.
Coordinating a community activity/fundraising effort, etc.

• Has a vested interest in creating sustainable vibrant Cattaraugus County communities as demonstrated by community volunteerism and other similar activities.

• Engages in or expresses willingness to engage in community service activities (volunteerism, community campaigns, service on a board, etc.)

“The board of directors is pleased that the scholarships are available for our leadership program,” said Meme Yanetsko, Leadership Cattaraugus program director. “Without assistance from an outside source, businesses and organizations may have trouble sending their employees to leadership training. It’s a win-win for all parties involved.”

The Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation is the area’s supportive, responsive and trusted community foundation. Established in 1994, CRCF is growing good by connecting donors to the causes they care about most in the region.

Grants from the foundation support many areas, including education, scholarships, health care, the arts, community development, human service, and youth development. To learn more, call (716) 301-CRCF (2723), email foundation@cattfoundation.org, or visit online at www.cattfoundation.org. CRCF is also on Facebook (facebook.com/cattfoundation) and Twitter (@CattFoundation).

Friday, August 5, 2022

On July 28, 2022, the PA Wilds Dinner + Awards Event was Held to Present Champion Awards

From left: Dale Luthringer and Matt Marusiak (PA Wilds board member and Land Protection Manager for Western Pennsylvania Conservancy)

Dale Luthringer, an Environmental Education Specialist for Cook Forest State Park, received the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Conservation Stewardship. Luthringer creates and leads teacher workshops and environmental education programs, with about 18,000 attending each year. He also organizes educational and volunteer events such as the Woodsy Owl Workday, the Cook Forest Big Tree Extravaganza, and the Cook Forest French & Indian War Encampment. The award was presented by Matt Marusiak, PA Wilds Center board member and Land Protection Manager, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

From left: Deborah Rudy (aide for Senator Cris Dush), Clinton County Commissioner Angela Harding, Clinton County Commissioner Jeff Snyder, Senator Gene Yaw, Katie de Silva, Matt Marusiak (PA Wilds board member and Land Protection Manager for Western Pennsylvania Conservancy)

Katie de Silva, vice chair of the PA Wilds Planning Team and planner for Clinton County, received the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Member of the Year. Through her leadership roles, Katie is helping to transition one of the longest-standing PA Wilds stakeholder groups to a new era of regional planning and collaboration. The award was presented by Matt Marusiak, PA Wilds Center board member and Land Protection Manager, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

From left: Jory Serrian (Daybreaker, Groundhog Club Inner Circle), Ta Enos (Founder and CEO of PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship), AJ Dereume (Rainmaker and Phil’s Handler, Groundhog Club Inner Circle), Dan McGinley (Moonshine, Groundhog Club Inner Circle)

Dan McGinley, AJ Dereume and Jory Serrian from the Inner Circle of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club received the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Event of the Year. When it comes to rural tourism marketing, it’s hard to think of an event more wildly successful than Punxsutawney’s Groundhog Day, an event that can draw in up to 30,000 visitors each February 2nd. The award was presented by Kate Brock, PA Wilds Center board chair and Executive Director of the Community Education Center of Elk and Cameron Counties.

From left: Kevin Abott (Jabebo, Bellefonte business owner), Mary Abbott (Jabebo, Bellefonte business owner), Kathryn Spielvogel (Economic Vitality Chair, Downtown Bellefonte Inc.), Matt Wise (aide for Senator Jake Corman), Melissa Hombosky (Events Committee Chair, Downtown Bellefonte Inc.), Main Street Manager for Downtown Bellefonte Inc. Jennilyn Schuster, Glenn Vernon, Claudia Albertin, Mark Long (aide for Rep. Kerry Benninghoff), Abbi Peters (PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship Founding COO), Andrea Skirpan and Brian Bonner (Belle Mercantile, Bellefonte business owners)

Glenn Vernon and Claudia Albertin, architects who collaborated on The Gamble Mill in Bellefonte (Centre County), accept the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Great Design. As one of the last remaining grain mills in the country, the design is a balance of preserving the historical nature of the building while incorporating modern amenities. The award was presented by Abbi Peters, Chief Operations Officer, PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship.

From left: Teressa Walker, Laurie Storrar, Laura Funaki, Louise Avery, Laura Lynch, Paul Prencipe (members of the Friends of Twin Lakes board)

Laura Funaki, president of the Friends of Twin Lakes board in Wilcox (Elk County), received the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Great Places. Due to capacity and budget restraints, the Allegheny National Forest was originally going to close Twin Lakes Recreation Area. Friends of Twin Lakes saved the area and is now bringing in guests every weekend during camping and travel season. The award was presented by Nathan Reigner, PhD, DCNR's Director of Outdoor Recreation.

From left: Mandy Book (Acting Deputy Secretary for the Office of Business Financing and Workforce Development), Ta Enos (Founder and CEO of PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship), Meredith Hill, Tim Poole, Abbi Peters (Founding COO of PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship)

Meredith Hill, who has been involved with the Pennsylvania Wilds since its inception roughly 20 years ago, was chosen as the recipient of the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Outstanding Leader. Hill has served as the Pennsylvania Wilds Conservation Landscape Director for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources during most of that time. The award was presented by Ta Enos, founder and CEO of PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship.

From left: Matt Wise (aide for Senator Jake Corman), Andrea Skirpan, Brian Bonner, Mark Long (aide for Rep. Kerry Benninghoff)

Andrea Skirpan and Brian Bonner, co-owners of Belle Mercantile in Bellefonte (Centre County), received the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Business of the Year. Belle Mercantile offers a unique destination for visitors to shop, while providing a brick-and-mortar location for local business owners searching for a permanent space. The award was presented by LaKeshia Knarr, Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Director, PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship.

From left: Lycoming County Commissioner Tony Mussare, Lycoming County Commissioner Richard Mirabito, Lu Ann Potter, Senator Gene Yaw

Lu Ann Potter, one of the founders of Project Coffee House in Clinton County and now Project Nature C.A.M.P. in Lycoming County, accepts the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Inspiring Youth. Her program provides enrichment activities for children during the summer, focusing on healthy eating, connecting with others and appreciating nature. The award was presented by Jason Fink, PA Wilds Center board member and President/CEO, Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce.

From left: Clinton County Commissioner Jeff Snyder, Clinton County Commissioner Angela Harding, Ron Kodish, Teresa Kodish, Clinton County Tourism/Chamber Director Julie Brennan, Senator Cris Dush’s aide Deborah Rudy

Ron and Teresa Kodish, organizers of the Smoked Country Jam Bluegrass Festival in Cross Fork (Clinton County), received the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Best Brand Ambassador. The organizers have intentionally promoted the festival to embrace the natural environment of northern Clinton County and the historic importance of local roots music and storytelling. The award was presented by Hannah Brock, PA Wilds Conservation Shop and Licensing Manager.

From left: Senator Gene Yaw, Clinton County Commissioner Angela Harding, Clinton County Commissioner Jeff Snyder, Carol Cillo, Clinton County Tourism/Chamber Director Julie Brennan, Senator Cris Dush’s aid Deborah Rudy

Carol Ann Simon Cillo, a fine artist serving Lock Haven (Clinton County) who works primarily with ceramics and acrylics, received the 2022 PA Wilds Champion Award for Artisan of the Year. Beyond being a juried artisan in the Wilds Cooperative of PA, Cillo encourages artists to become rooted in the landscape of the PA Wilds and takes part in regional arts initiatives. The award was presented by Julie Brennan, Chamber/Tourism Director, Clinton County Economic Partnership & Visitors Bureau.

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

PennDOT, Highway Safety Network, Clinton County Economic Partnership Commemorate Opening of Clinton County Traffic Safety Geotrail

Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Highway Safety Network (HSN), the Clinton County Economic Partnership & Visitors Bureau, and State Farm Insurance gathered this morning to commemorate the opening of the Clinton County Traffic Safety Geotrail. This trail, the second of its kind in the state, is one of PennDOT and HSN’s outreach and education programs designed to promote a safety culture, reverse current crash trends and reduce unsafe driving behaviors.

“The safety of people traveling our highways will always be PennDOT’s top priority,” said PennDOT District Executive Tom Zurat from the podium under the William Clinger River Walk Pavilion in Lock Haven. “We’re confident that continued investment in low-cost highway safety improvements and outreach and education programs like this geotrail makes eliminating traffic fatalities by 2050 possible. Programs like this would not be possible without the support of our partnering organizations, and we offer them our thanks and congratulations on their efforts to expand this program.”

According to geocaching.com, “geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices where participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and attempt to find the geocache hidden at that location.” The Clinton County Traffic Safety Geotrail includes 20 geocaches hidden throughout Clinton County. Each geocache has a brochure on a different traffic safety focus area affixed to it, and each brochure contains a keyword that participants record in their passport booklet. Participants who visit each geocache and record all the keywords receive a reward coin for completing the trail.

Josh Woods, Community Traffic Safety Project Coordinator with HSN, explained that combining geocaching and traffic safety messaging occurred to him during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when traditional outreach and education methods like school programs or health fairs weren’t an option. A geocacher himself, Woods noticed the activity increased in popularity as families searched for outdoor activities to enjoy while maintaining social distancing. He started to explore the possibility of marrying the two ideas together. The result was the Clearfield County Traffic Safety Geotrail, which opened in June 2021.

Data collected during the first two quarters that the trail was operational showed the program was a viable means of raising traffic safety awareness. Between its launch on June 4 and September 20, 2021, 942 caches were logged as found in Clearfield County. During that same time frame, traditional programs reached 982 people across all nine counties served by PennDOT District 2, for an average of 109 contacts per county. Geotrail program participation exceeded the average program participation by nearly 900%.

Geocachers interested in exploring this new trail and learning more about traffic safety may pick up their passport booklets at the Clinton County Economic Partnership & Visitors Bureau at 212 North Jay Street in Lock Haven. They may also collect their reward coin at that location after logging all 20 keywords in their passport booklet. The office is open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday.

“We’re excited to partner with PennDOT, the Highway Safety Network and State Farm on the Clinton County GeoTrail,” says Julie Brennan, Chamber/Tourism Director with the Clinton County Economic Partnership & Visitors Bureau. “The new trail allows us to show off our recreational spaces, local attractions and historic sites from one end of the county to the other. We are grateful for the support we’ve received from the owner of each location where a cache is hidden. Geocaching translates into fun for the whole family. This trail will bring people to our area, get them outdoors, and educate them on important traffic safety topics. It’s a win all the way around.”

PennDOT did not spend any taxpayer money to purchase the materials for the geotrail program. Highway Safety Network secured funding through State Farm Insurance’s Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants program for the passport booklets, reward coins and geocache boxes. State Farm awards these grants to build safer, stronger, and better-educated communities across the United States by focusing on safety, education and community development.

“State Farm is excited to continue its support of the Traffic Safety Geotrail program and help it find a home in Clinton County,” said Cara Montarsi, State Farm Insurance Agent in Lock Haven. “Our top priority is promoting safety for the members of our communities and helping them live more comfortably. This partnership with the Highway Safety Network, PennDOT and the Clinton County Economic Partnership helps us achieve that by bringing this community a unique project highlighting numerous beautiful sites in Clinton County while teaching traffic safety concepts that will keep them safe.”

For more information on geocaching, visit www.Geocaching.com.

For more information on the Clinton County Economic Partnership & Visitors Bureau, visit https://www.clintoncountyinfo.com/clinton-county-economic-partnership-visitors-bureau.

For more information on State Farm’s Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants, visit www.StateFarm.com.

For more information on PennDOT’s highway safety initiatives, visit www.PennDOT.gov/Safety.

For regional traffic updates, follow www.twitter.com/511PAAltoona, www.twitter.com/511PAErie, and www.twitter.com/511PAStateCOLL.

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

PFBC ENCOURAGES SUMMER SAFETY FOR ANGLERS AND BOATERS, AMENDS BOWFISHING REGULATIONS, CONSIDERS HORSEPOWER RESTRICTIONS FOR ELECTRIC BOAT MOTORS, AND ELECTS NEW OFFICERS AT QUARTERLY MEETING

River Estuary. Under this proposal, 58 Pa. Code § 61.2 would be amended to clarify language pertaining to the legal harvestable size range for Striped Bass and prohibit gaffing or the attempt to gaff any Striped Bass when fishing. At its May 2022 quarterly meeting, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) which includes the Commonwealth as a member, approved Amendment 7 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Striped Bass. The most recent Striped Bass stock assessment determined the stock was overfished and that overfishing was occurring.

Based on these findings, the ASMFC’s Striped Bass management plan calls for management actions to rebuild the stock. As part of Amendment 7, new requirements were established to address recreational release mortality, among other management plan components. Recreational release mortality is a large component of annual fishing mortality, and Amendment 7 establishes a new gear restriction which prohibits gaffing Striped Bass when fishing recreationally. This new restriction, along with the existing circle hook requirement when fishing recreationally with bait, are intended to increase the chance of survival after a Striped Bass is released alive. To align with the provisions of Amendment 7, it is recommended to prohibit the use of a gaff when fishing for Striped Bass in the Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River, and River Estuary. If adopted on final rulemaking at a future meeting, this amendment will go into effect on January 1, 2023.

Commissioners approved changes to fishing regulations on Little Chartiers Creek, Section 05, in Washington County. Under this change, Section 05, which runs approximately one-half mile from the outflow of Canonsburg Lake to the confluence with Chartiers Creek, will be removed from the list of waters managed under Miscellaneous Special Regulations. While Section 05 is not managed by the PFBC as a Stocked Trout Water (STW), a Miscellaneous Special Regulation has been in place since the early 1980s which prohibits angling from the end of the extended season for trout through 8:00 a.m. on the opening day of the regular season for trout, which is typically associated with STWs. Historically, the rationale for this special regulation was to prohibit angling in Section 05 during the closure period following the stocking of trout in Canonsburg Lake, which could escape downstream into Little Chartiers Creek. Escapement of stocked trout created unwanted and disruptive angler behavior in Section 05 and warranted management with these special regulations. During the annual regulatory review process, Commission staff determined that these regulations are no longer necessary and recommended removal. This change will simplify regulations and increase angling opportunities while continuing to provide adequate resource protection. This amendment will go into effect on January 1, 2023.

The Board approved changes to fishing regulations on Penns Creek, Section 03, a Class A wild trout stream with a robust population of wild Brown Trout in Centre and Mifflin counties. Under this change, a Miscellaneous Special Regulation that has been in place since 2014 will be removed. The current Miscellaneous Special Regulation is an experimental trout slot limit regulation that allowed for year-round fishing, use of all tackle types, and the harvest of two trout per day that are at least seven inches but less than 12 inches in length, from the opening day of the regular season for trout through Labor Day, with no harvest permitted the remainder of the year. As a result of PFBC surveys from 2014-2019 that revealed the presence of larger Brown Trout (greater than 16 inches in length) and favorable angler feedback during this experimental period, the PFBC created an official Trout Slot Limit program with two subprograms in 2021. Upon removal of the current Miscellaneous Special Regulation, Penns Creek, Section 03, will be proposed for designation into the All-Tackle Trout Slot Limit program at a future meeting of the Board. It should be noted that while the name of the regulation applied to Penns Creek, Section 03, will change, the regulation itself will remain the same. This change will go into effect on January 1, 2023.

The Board approved the addition of nine stream sections to the list of Class A wild trout streams, and the addition of 19 new waters to the PFBC’s list of wild trout streams. A list of waters proposed for wild trout stream and Class A wild trout stream designation can be found on the PFBC website. The Board also approved the addition of 19 new waters to the list of wilderness trout streams. All of these additions will go into effect upon publication of a second notice in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

Commissioners voted to approve changes to fishing regulations at Speedwell Forge Lake, Lancaster County. Under this change, the 106-acre impoundment will be removed from the Catch and Release Lakes program (58 Pa. Code § 65.17) and added to the Big Bass program (58 Pa. Code § 65.9). From 2017 through April 2022, the black bass and panfish populations at Speedwell Forge Lake were evaluated to monitor progress towards development of a high-quality, warm-water and cool-water fishery. Sportfish abundance and population size structure have improved to levels where populations can now sustain limited harvest. Big Bass regulations applied to lakes allow for the harvest of four black bass (Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, and Spotted Bass; combined species) greater than or equal to 15 inches in length from January 1 to midnight the day before the second Saturday in April, and 12:01 a.m. the second Saturday in June to midnight December 31. No harvest is permitted from 12:01 a.m. the second Saturday in April to 12:01 a.m. the second Saturday in June. All other fish species not managed under these special regulations will be managed with Commonwealth Inland Waters angling regulations (58 Pa. Code § 61.11). These changes will go into effect on January 1, 2023.

The Board voted to add Colyer Lake, Centre County and Lake Nessmuk, Tioga County to the Panfish Enhancement program (58 Pa. Code § 65.11) for Yellow Perch. At the July 2021 Commission meeting, the Board approved the removal of both lakes from the Catch and Release Lakes program and added them to the Big Bass program and the Panfish Enhancement program for crappies and sunfish. However, no action was taken to manage Yellow Perch under the Panfish Enhancement program in either lake. Upon further consideration, it is recommended to also include Yellow Perch in the species group managed under this program. Panfish Enhancement regulations allow for year-round harvest of sunfish (Bluegill and Pumpkinseed) greater than or equal to seven inches in length and crappies (Black Crappie and White Crappie) and Yellow Perch greater than or equal to nine inches in length with a daily limit of 20. When Panfish Enhancement regulations apply to more than one species in the same waterway, the creel limit is 20 for each species with the total creel not to exceed 50 panfish combined. All other fish species not managed under these special regulations will be managed with Commonwealth Inland Waters angling regulations. These changes will go into effect on January 1, 2023.

The Board voted to remove Sugar Lake, Crawford County; Belmont Lake, Wayne County; and Prompton Lake, Wayne County from the Brood Stock Lakes program (58 Pa. Code § 65.18). Under the Brood Stock Lakes program, fishing regulations restrict harvest and fish consumption during the Food and Drug Administration mandated withdrawal period associated with anesthetics used during fish culture operations and help maintain high-abundance populations of fish for use as brood stock. During the catch-and-release/no-harvest period defined by this regulation, fish anesthetics are used during culture operations for Muskellunge, tiger muskellunge, Northern Pike, and pickerel, thus necessitating the harvest closure. There is justification to remove three lakes from the Brood Stock Lakes program based on lake characteristics. Prompton Lake, Wayne County, has not been used as a brood stock lake since 2014. Additionally, Largemouth Bass virus has been documented in Prompton Lake, and out of an abundance of caution, brood fish are no longer collected from this water. Belmont Lake, Wayne County, was historically stocked with Muskellunge, but no stockings have occurred since 2014. As such, Belmont Lake does not support a population of Muskellunge in numbers sufficient to support brood stock collections for culture purposes. Sugar Lake, Crawford County, is stocked with Muskellunge; however, these stockings have failed to produce a robust population. Consequently, the lake has not been used for a source of brood stock for more than 15 years. Removal of the lake from the program would allow abundant Chain Pickerel to be harvested during the current no-harvest period, which has been advocated for by local anglers. These changes will go into effect January 1, 2023.

Grant Approval

Commissioners voted to approve additional funding for an R3 (Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation) Education Grant to Bartram’s Garden for the purpose of a riverfront recreation project in Philadelphia. While the PFBC originally awarded the grantee funding to expand fishing and boating education efforts in urban communities, additional funding in the amount of $45,000 is necessary to continue these valuable programs. Board approval of grant funding is required under the R3 Education Grant Program when funding exceeds $25,000.

The Board voted to approve an amendment to a previously approved grant to the County of Carbon for a project at Mauch Chunk Lake Park through the PFBC’s Boating Facility Grant Program. While the PFBC originally awarded the grantee $155,500 for a project that included boat launch rehabilitation, parking lot paving, and the addition of ADA compliant restrooms and parking spaces, costs for the project have increased since the original estimate was provided. As a result of the increased costs, the County requested an additional $25,355 to complete the project. Board approval of grant funding is required under the Boating Facility Grant Program when funding exceeds $100,000.

The Board voted to approve additional funding for an Erie Access Improvement Grant to the Erie-Western PA Port Authority for the construction of the Lampe Marina Fish Cleaning Station along Lake Erie, Erie County. While the PFBC originally awarded the grantee $150,000 in April 2021, it was determined that an additional $100,000 was required to complete the project and planned improvements to the design. The revised grant amount includes costs for a larger concrete pad for a second fish cleaning table, water service, wastewater drains, adding a building roof and enclosure with sidewalls to the refrigeration building, and a chain link fence to secure the facility. Board approval of grant funding is required under the Erie Access Improvement Program when funding exceeds $100,000 per year.

The Board voted to approve additional funding for an Erie Access Improvement Grant to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy for stabilization of the streambank and construction of habitat improvements on their property along Elk Creek. The PFBC originally awarded the grantee funding in the amount of $200,000 in October 2018. Due to increased materials and fuel costs, the Conservancy is requesting an additional $150,000 for the project to take advantage of the current lowest bid for the project. The Conservancy must proceed with construction in 2022 to retain other key grants they have secured for the project. Board approval of grant funding is required under the Erie Access Improvement Program when funding exceeds $100,000 per year.

The Board voted to approve an amendment to a previously approved grant to Lower Swatara Township for a project along Swatara Creek in Dauphin County through the PFBC’s Boating Facility Grant Program. While the PFBC originally awarded the grantee $87,500 for a project that included the design and construction of a new canoe/kayak access and parking area, costs for the project have increased since the original estimate was provided. As a result of the increased costs, the township requested an additional $66,533 to complete the project. Board approval of grant funding is required under the Boating Facility Grant Program when funding exceeds $100,000.

Public Access and Real Estate

Commissioners voted to authorize the acquisition of a property easement along the West Branch of the Susquehanna River in Susquehanna Township, Cambria County. Utilizing funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP), and pending due diligence, the PFBC will pay $71,000 to the property owner to obtain public fishing and boating access and riparian and fishery management rights on two properties totaling 5,925 linear feet along the West Branch Susquehanna River. The West Branch Susquehanna River provides significant Class A Wild Brown Trout fishing opportunities in the area.

The Board voted to authorize the acquisition of a property easement along Crooked Creek located in Springfield Township, Erie County. Utilizing funds from the PFBC’s Erie Access Improvement Program, and pending due diligence, the PFBC will pay $85,000 to the Young Men’s Christian Association of Youngstown to obtain public fishing and boating access and riparian and fishery management rights on 4,990 linear feet along Crooked Creek. Crooked Creek provides significant steelhead fishing opportunities in the area.

Commissioners voted to authorize the acquisition of a property easement along Elk Creek, Erie County. Utilizing funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP), and pending due diligence, the PFBC will pay $14,000 to the property owner to obtain public fishing and boating access and riparian and fishery management rights on 860 linear feet along Elk Creek. Elk Creek provides significant steelhead fishing opportunities in the area.

Special Announcements

The next quarterly meeting of the PFBC Board of Commissioners is scheduled for October 24-25, 2022, at the PFBC's Harrisburg headquarters.

Thursday, July 14, 2022

Friday, July 8, 2022

PA Permit Violation Issued to HORIZONTAL EXPLORATION LLC in Lafayette Twp, McKean County

PA Permit Violation Issued to HORIZONTAL EXPLORATION LLC in Lafayette Twp, McKean County

Description: Administrative violation issued on 7/07/2022 to HORIZONTAL EXPLORATION LLC in Lafayette Twp, McKean county. OGA3211(G) - WELL PERMITS - POSTING - Failure to post the well permit number and the operator's name, address and phone number at the well site during construction of the access road, site preparation and during drilling, operating or alteration of well.

Incident Date/Time: 2022-07-07 00:00:00