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Schuylkill and Berks County commissioners and row officers sworn in

On December 29, the Schuylkill County commissioners and row officers were officially sworn in to carry out their four-year term, and on December 30, the Berks County commissioners and row officers were sworn in.

Schuylkill County commissioners:

• George F. Halcovage (R)
• Frank J. Staudenmeier (R)
• Gary J. Hess (D)

Schuylkill County row officers:

• Maria Casey, Clerk of Courts (R)
• Christy D. Joy, CPA, Controller (R)
• David J. Moylan, Coroner (R)
• David J. Dutcavich, Prothonotary (R)
• Ann Dudish, Recorder of Deeds (R)
• Theresa Santai Gaffney, Register of Wills (R)
• Linda L. Marchalk, Treasurer (R)

Berks County commissioners:

• Christian Y. Leinbach (R)
• Mark C. Scott (R)
• Kevin S. Barnhardt (D)

Berks County row officers:

• James P. Troutman, Clerk of Courts (R)
• Sandy Graffius, Controller (R)
• John T. Adams, District Attorney (D)
• Larry Medaglia, Register of Wills (R)
• Frederick C. Sheeler, Recorder of Deeds (D)
• Eric J. Weaknecht, Sheriff (R)

These men and women have demonstrated their commitment to their communities and its citizens and have taken the oath to uphold the duties vested upon them. I look forward to working with the commissioners and officers to help improve our counties and make the region thrive.

Congratulations to both the Schuylkill and Berks County commissioners and row officers!

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Steps to remaining flu-free

This time of year brings in cold weather, a “new year, new you” attitude, and of course, the dreaded possibility of getting the flu.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, two important ways that citizens can remain flu-free are through vaccination and hand washing.

Health professionals also recommend that citizens take the additional steps to remain healthy and ailment-free by:

• Covering your nose and mouth with either a tissue or the sleeve of your clothing when sneezing – sneezing in your hand is not recommended.
• Refraining from touching your face – especially your mouth, nose, and eyes as this can spread germs.
• Thoroughly cleaning surfaces that are frequently touched such as phones, doorknobs, remotes, light switches, and countertops.
• Staying home from work or school if you are sick in order to prevent spreading the flu to others. You are advised to stay home until you are free of a fever for 24 hours without the use of medicine that reduces fevers.

In order to shorten the time frame of the flu and its severity, antiviral medication can be used within 48 hours at the start of flu symptoms. More information about flu antiviral medication can be viewed here.

For more information about the flu and ways to prevent the spread of this illness, click here.

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Love Your Dog, License Your Dog campaign

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture recently kicked off its “Love Your Dog, License Your Dog” campaign to remind dog owners to obtain a dog license for their furry friends.

In the tragic event that your puppy or dog goes missing, this situation can be remedied quickly if your dog is licensed and wearing the numbered tag attached to its collar.

By renewing your dog license each year and paying the small license fee, you can help support the efforts of the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, which helps to maintain the well-being and safety of Pennsylvania’s canines.

In order to obtain a license for your dog, please contact your local county treasurer or an issuing agent. Failure to obtain a license in Pennsylvania can result in a maximum fine of $300, in addition to court costs.

For more information about dog licensing and this campaign, please click here.

To contact your county treasurer, please click here.

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Enjoying the great outdoors

The community partners for the Get Outdoors PA program is encouraging Pennsylvanians and visitors to take advantage of all of the events and recreational activities Pennsylvania’s parks, forests and recreation departments have to offer.

Established in 2004, the Get Outdoors PA program is dedicated to providing citizens with a wide range of outdoor activities, promoting environmental stewardship and encouraging our communities to adopt a healthy lifestyle. During this winter season, some of the outdoor activities include cross-country skiing and wildlife viewing.

For more information about the program and the events taking place in your area, please click here.

In order to stay up-to-date with the new outdoor trends and events, sign up for the Get Outdoors PAthfinder newsletter here.