Contact Information 
Capitol Office 
314-C Main Captitol 
P.O. Box 202117
Harrisburg PA 17120-2117
Phone: (717) 787-1117
Fax: (717) 705-1889
Open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

District Offices
1108 Twin Stacks Drive
Dallas, PA 18612
(570) 675-6000
Fax: (570) 255-0133
(800) 278-3930
Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

133 West Tioga St., Suite 4
Tunkhannock, PA 18657
(570) 836-4777
Fax: (570) 836-4772
Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

email: kboback@pahousegop.com
 
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Supporters of motorcyclists’ rights recently held their 40th anniversary rally in the Main Capitol Rotunda. Rep. Boback was proud to speak at the rally to encourage this enthusiastic group. The Palace of Indian, an authentic Indian Cuisine in Twin Stacks, Dallas, celebrated its grand opening in May. Congratulations! Rep. Boback recently attended an event celebrating the 90th Anniversary of Dallas Kiwanis. Several long-serving members were recognized. Pictured with Boback from left to right are Bernard Banks, fifty year member, Secretary James Snyder, President Robert Albee, Robert Dolbear, sixty-five year member, Charles Kishbaugh, thirty year member, Treasurer Beverly Atherholt and Sen. Lisa Baker. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) recently recognized the Tunkhannock Little League 8-10 year-old girls championship softball team on the House floor for their stellar season. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) was honored to receive the Guardian of Small Business award from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). This award is based on a voting record which encourages growth and support of small businesses. Pictured with Boback is Neal Lesher, legislative director of NFIB. On Tuesday, Sept. 21, the House recognized National Recovery Month in Pennsylvania. Rep. Boback had the opportunity to address a group of recovery advocates about the importance of recovery and supporting those in recovery. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) recently attended the Back Mountain Regional Volunteer Firefighters Association meeting which was held to discuss issues affecting the volunteer ambulance services in the Northeast Region. The meeting was hosted by the Back Mountain Regional Volunteer Firefighter Association. Pictured are Sean Harris, research analyst, House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee; Richard Gibbons, director, Pennsylvania Department of Health-Bureau of EMS; Boback; Jill Shaw, secretary, Back Mountain Regional Volunteer Firefighter Association; Jack Dodson, president, Back Mountain Regional Volunteer Firefighter Association; John Kloss, executive director, Eastern Regional EMS Council; John Campos, executive director, EMS of Northeast PA (regional council); and Ed Quinn, licensure coordinator, EMS of Northeast PA. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) visited Golden Living Center in Tunkhannock on Thursday, May 12, in honor of National Nursing Home Week, which ran from May 8 through May 14. Boback received a tour of the facility during the visit. Pictured are Michael Perlock, nursing home administrator and executive director at Golden Living Center; Boback; and Jennifer McClain, director of nursing services. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) recently presented the Nicholson Heritage Association with the Pennsylvania state flag flown over the Capitol to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Nicholson Bridge. Pictured are Marion Sweet, president of Nicholson Heritage Association; Russ Gunton; Joan Jenkins, secretary of Nicholson Heritage Association; Pat Gunton; and Rep. Karen Boback. Pictured with Rep. Boback, Rep. Aaron Kaufer (R-Luzerne) and Speaker Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) are the members of the Dallas High School Boys’ Cross Country team along with Ally Rome, who was also presented with a citation to recognize her achievement of capturing the 2015 PIAA State Class AA Girls’ Individual Cross Country Championship. Ally is a senior at Dallas High School. Members of the Dallas High School Boys Cross Country team include, in no particular order, Stephen Postupak, Josh Jarden, Adam Borton, Jack Zardecki, Jason Culp, Robert Martin, Josh Wyandt and Mitchell Rome. Ed Patchoski was recently honored upon his retirement from the Natural Resources Conservation Service as a district conservationist after more than 32 years of service. Patchoski, throughout his career, served Lackawanna, Susquehanna, Westmoreland and Wyoming counties. He was instrumental in the rehabilitation of two former housing developments that led to municipal parks and the completion of several improvements to the Kiwanis Wyoming County Fairgrounds. Rep. Boback had the pleasure of presenting Ed with a citation from the House of Representatives. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) presented a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to Jacob Bobersky, age 11, who saved his father from drowning during a kayaking excursion on Lake Silkworth in October 2015. Bobersky paddled his kayak nearly 100 yards to rescue his father and bring him to shore. The citation acknowledged Jacob’s quick thinking and bravery. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) presented a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to Adam and Flo Belenski of Harveys Lake. Adam and Flo recently celebrated 25 years of marriage. Jeffrey Dudick, a student from the Columbia County Christian School, was the 2015 appointee to the Valley Forge Military College and a nomination to the U.S. Army’s Early Commissioning Program. Dudick is pictured with Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming). He is the son of Chester and Jannell Dudick of Hunlock Creek. The appointment was a result of the Valley Forge Military College Legislative Scholarship Program. Dudick is the first student in Boback’s district to receive the honor. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) presented a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to Ernie King of Tunkhannock. King was recently named “Lay Person of the Year” by the Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Churches. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) congratulated Anthony Bluhm, owner of Bluhm’s Shopping Center in Laceyville, which celebrated 50 years in business. Boback presented Bluhm with a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Rep. Karen Boback met with her Veterans Advisory Committee to discuss plans for her Annual Veterans Event and Expo, to be held on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Misericordia University. The expo, which runs from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., is open to all local veterans and is held in conjunction with Misericordia University and Metz Culinary Management. <br><br/> Pictured (front row, from left) are: Scott Shuster, Dallas; Sam Greenberg, Gino Merli Veterans Home; John Metz, Metz Culinary Management; Mary Metz; (back row) Dallas American Legion Post members George Tucker, Ned Podel and John Emil; Jane Dessoye, Veterans Education Programs at Misericordia University; Misericordia University President Tom Botzman; Boback; and Dallas Legion Post members Harold Bolton, Jim Baloga, William Lewis and Charles Fleming. <br><br/> Missing from photo are committee members John Headley, Darlene Headley, Art Peoples and Sandra Peoples. It was great to be a part of Joshua Skoronski’s Eagle Scout ceremony. Josh is joined in this photo by his parents, Bill and Sheila Skoronski and Rep. Karen Boback. The Eagle Award is a great accomplishment. Congratulations to the Skoronski Family. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) toured the Senior Care facility in Plains Township in honor of Adult Day Services Week. This week has been celebrated annually since it was proclaimed on Sept. 27, 1983, by former President Ronald Reagan. The entire third week of September is set aside to raise awareness of the availability and accessibility of adult day programs nationwide. Boback is pictured above with members of the Senior Care of Plains. Rep. Karen Boback met with officials from local agencies which assist senior citizens and with officials from Triton Hose Company to discuss plans for this year’s Senior Expo. The expo will be held on Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Triton Hose Company. The Triton Hose Company is located at 116 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. Pictured, (front row, from left) are: Bob Fox, NEPA Center for Independent Living; Annette Chickey, administrator, United Methodist Homes at Tunkhannock Manor; David Winski, Triton Hose Company; Boback; Jean Ruhf, executive director, Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau; and Jeff Mitchell, Wyoming County district attorney. Rep. Karen Boback joined Karen Doknovitch at the Luzerne County Veterans Affairs table at the representative’s Senior Expo on Aug. 5. The Harvey’s Lake Fire Co. and E.M.S. along with the Harvey’s Lake Police Dept. were recognized on Saturday, Aug. 15. I presented a certificate to representatives from each organization. Thank you for including me in this special day! Rep. Karen Boback attend Joshua Frankevich’s Eagle Scout ceremony last week. She presented Joshua with a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Rep. Boback attended the opening of the Dallas Area Municipal Authority Compost Facility. This facility allows residents in participating municipalities to drop off yard waste and pick up mulch for home landscaping projects. Bob Fox (left) and Ed Ryan (right) from the Center for Independent Living joined Rep. Karen Boback at her annual Senior Expo at Misericordia University on Aug. 5 to discuss services available to seniors to improve and enhance their independent living options. On July 31, Rep. Karen Boback presented an Eagle Scout citation to Corey Weaver, son of Kathleen and Todd Weaver of Lehman Township. Rep. Boback presented a citation to the Wilson family, upon their farm being named a “Century Farm.” This means that it has been owned by the same family for more than 100 years. Rep. Karen Boback presented Eagle Scout citations to these young men from Troop 518 on June 6, 2015. From left to right are Nick Costello, John Loomis III ,Rep. Boback, Matt Miller, Eric Stamer, and Alex Zelna. Please note that citations were also issued to Peter Horger, Benjamin Cameron, and Kurtis Carichner, who are not pictured. Rep. Karen Boback presented a citation to Alex McCarthy, who earned the rank of Eagle Scout. In June, Rep. Karen Boback presented a citation to Francis "Fran" Turner in honor of his 65th anniversary as a member of the Rotary Club of Tunkhannock. Jeffrey Dudick, a student from the Columbia County Christian School, recently received an appointment to the Valley Forge Military College and a nomination to the U.S. Army’s Early Commissioning Program. Dudick is pictured with Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming). He is the son of Chester and Jannell Dudick of Hunlock Creek. The appointment was a result of the Valley Forge Military College Legislative Scholarship Program. Rep. Boback participated in a flag donation ceremony for the Falls Bridge, organized by the Falls Lions Club. Students from Lake-Lehman High School presented “Beauty and the Beast” in spring 2015. Rep. Boback is pictured with members of the cast. Rep. Boback was recently visited at her Harrisburg office by pharmacist, who were in Harrisburg to talk about a bill which would allow pharmacists to offer vaccines to children, ages 9 and older, with parental permission. Rep. Boback joined members of the Wyoming Seminary Preparatory School wrestling team to the Capitol this week. The team was honored for winning the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association Wrestling Tournament title and placing second in the National Preps Wrestling Tournament. Reps. Tina Pickett and Karen Boback held a joint seminar on concealed weapons at the Black Walnut American Legion in Laceyville. Pictured (standing from left) are (standing, from left): Wyoming County Sheriff Ned Sherman; Wyoming County District Attorney Jeff Mitchell; Tim Smith and Scott Wilcox from the Edge Security Solutions and handgun instructors from Towanda; and Brian Burke of Burke Guns and Auction; (front row) and Wayne Wiloski, commander of the Black Walnut American Legion. In addition to the seminar, their offices presented information regarding firearms and their purchase; gun safety; personal firearm inventory booklets; and much more. Last week, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) participated in a check presentation by Mary Grace Eckert to Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Inc. in the amount of $6,826.86. Mary Grace collected the money through her 2014 Cards to Heroes Campaign. She started the campaign in fifth grade, raising a total of $11,649.14 over the past three years. Pictured (from left) are Helen Sager, founder of Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Inc.; Mary Grace’s father David Eckert; Mary Grace, her mother, Mary Ann Eckert; and Major General Randall Marchi (Ret.) of the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors, Inc. board of directors. In March, as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Boback participated in hearings on Gov. Tom Wolf’s proposed budget. In February, Rep. Boback joined members of the House Majority Policy Committee at a hearing to examine our state’s business climate. National Wear Red Day was Friday, Feb. 6, with the goal of raising awareness of heart disease affecting women. Each year, one in three women die of heart disease and stroke. The House recognized National Wear Red Day on Monday and Rep. Boback joined her colleagues in marking the occasion. On Jan. 6, 2015, Rep. Karen Boback was sworn in to represent the 117th District for another term. In this photo from swearing-in day, she is joined, from left, by new House Speaker Mike Turzai, Rep. Becky Corbin and Rep. Sue Helm. Rep. Karen Boback met with officials from local agencies which assist senior citizens and with Misericordia University officials to discuss plans for this year’s Senior Expo, on Wednesday, Aug. 6. The expo will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Banks Student Life Center. The university is located at 301 Lake St., Dallas. Pictured, from left, are Betty Sorchick, The Meadows Nursing Home; Tom Botzman, president, Misericordia University; Dr. James Ziegler, Family Hearing Center; Rep. Karen Boback; Mary Erwine, president, Erwine Home Health Care; and Annette Grella, Luzerne/Wyoming County Area Agency on Aging. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) recently presented John Emil Sr. with a House citation in honor of his induction into the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center Hall of Fame and for his continued service to the Dallas American Legion. Emil served from 1965 to 1969 in the Vietnam era. He is the commander of American Legion District 12, which oversees Luzerne County and is a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America. Rep. Boback visited the annual Noxen Volunteer Fire Company Rattlesnake Round-up, demonstrating how the snakes are protected. Rep. Boback recently participated in Tunkhannock’s “Celebrate Our River Day,” aimed at recognizing one of Pennsylvania’s greatest resources, the Susquehanna River. Rep. Boback recently participated in the annual Noxen Volunteer Fireman’s Parade. Rep. Boback joined several of her colleagues at the 77th annual Claverack Rural Electric meeting at the Wysox Volunteer Fire Company grounds. Pictured are, from left, Rep. Tina Pickett, Claverack Director Tom Elliott, Rep. Sandra Major, Boback and Congressman Tom Marino. Rep. Boback spoke Saturday, May 17 to members of the Wyoming Valley Daughters of the American Revolution. She is pictured with, from left to right, Lydia Hirner, Lydia Ellsworth and Amy Ellsworth. Rep. Karen Boback participated in the event “Celebration of Abilities,” which honors the work of those with intellectual abilities, along with the support of the companies they work for and their communities. Pictured with Boback are Erica Rogler (left) and Miranda Kropa (right). On Tuesday, May 6, at the annual Pennsylvania Veterinary Association Reception at the Pennsylvania Capitol, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) received the organization’s Distinguished Service Award. The award is given annually to an individual who has made significant contributions to the veterinary community. Rep. Karen Boback hosted a hearing of the House Majority Policy Committee on Tuesday, April 15, 2014. The committee heard from colleges, universities and technical schools on their efforts to prepare students for their future careers. Rep. Boback recently participated in a flag presentation to the Falls Lions Club. Pictured (from left) are Club Vice President John Headley, Boback, Club President Karen Cokely, and Club Secretary Al Cabral. Rep. Karen Boback participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony for her Dallas district office, which opened late in 2013. The photo was taken at an open house event in March. Rep. Karen Boback recently participated in the presentation of a certificate to Mary Grace Eckert, who was named as the first student ambassador to the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors. Shown seated, from left, Eckert and program founder Helen Sajer. Back, from left, Grace’s parents David and Maryanne Eckert, Boback, and Principal Jeanne Rossi. Rep. Boback participated in the Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association Legislative Roundtable. She is pictured here along with Rep. Jerry Knowles (R- Berks/Schuylkill, seated to the right and Rep. Tarah Toohil (R-Luzerne), seated to the left. Rep. Karen Boback, along with Rep. Sandra Major, presented a House citation to Kim Skumanick, who was recently installed as the president of the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors. Pictured are, from left, Major, Shumanick and Boback. Reps. Sandra Major (R-Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming) and Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) welcomed the Tunkhannock Area High School Boys’ Cross Country Team to the state Capitol to be recognized in the chamber of the House of Representatives for winning the 2013 PIAA State Class AA Boys’ Team Cross Country Championship. Pictured in front of the Christmas tree in the historic Capitol Rotunda (from left to right, back row) are Coach Randy White, John Loomis, Ben Siegel, Carson Ayers, Jacob Toczko and Alan Grow; and (left to right, front row) Major, Coach Doug Wilson, Joey Moffett, Justin Stonier, Jack Tidball and Boback. Members of the Tunkhannock Area High School Boys’ Cross Country Team were recognized in the chamber of the House of Representatives on Dec. 16 upon winning the 2013 PIAA State Class AA Boys’ Team Cross Country Championship. This is the high school’s first state title in 41 years. The top five finishers in the state meet were brought to the podium in the House for a photograph. Pictured, left to right, are Speaker of the House Sam Smith (R-Jefferson), Rep. Sandra Major (R-Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming), Jack Tidball, Jacob Toczko, Carson Ayers, Ben Siegel, John Loomis and Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming). On Wednesday, Dec. 4, the Northwest Area High School Chorus visited the Capitol for a Holiday performance in the East Wing Rotunda. The students also toured the Capitol. This performance served as a prelude and warm-up for their performance at the PA Christmas & Gift Show currently being held at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center. Rep. Karen Boback is pictured with members of the Dallas High School AP Government and Politics class. The students visited the Capitol on Nov. 12, 2013. Rep. Boback joined Girl Scout Troop 32672 for the dedication of the new reading garden at Lehman-Jackson Elementary. The garden was dedicated to retired principal Marilyn Glogowski. Pictured are (from left), front row: Madison Chulick, Erin McMonagle, Chloe Weaver, Madeline Newman. Back row: Rocky Knorr, Alyssa Kapsik, Seanna Ashton, Olivia Anderson, Natalie Knorr, Marilyn Glogowski, Boback, Bonnie Turchin, Ed Turchin. On Nov. 1, Gov. Tom Corbett signed Senate Bill 358 into law. The bill, authored by Sen. Bob Mensch (R - Bucks/ Lehigh/ Montgomery/ Northampton), requires U.S. Food and Drug Administration facilities to notify women of their breast density, which can impact the effectiveness of traditional mammograms. Identical legislation was introduced in the Pennsylvania House by Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming). Pictured are (from left): Boback, Corbett and Mensch. Rep. Boback recently participated in the Wyoming County Annual Meeting of the Penn State Cooperative Extension. Pictured are Outstanding Junior and Senior 4-H'er Award Winners Destiny Rabe and Abby Hirkey along with Wyoming County Commissioner Tom Henry, Representative Boback, Wyoming County Commissioner Judy Mead, and Joe Stanco, Jr., Youth Development/4-H Educator. Rep. Karen Boback visited the Wyoming County Annual Penn State Cooperative Extension meeting and met with members of the 4-H Teen Council who traveled to Kansas. Pictured are (from left): Ian Hemann, Boback, Abbey Hirkey, Will Phinney, Eliza Frank, Catherine Ruppert, Rachel Phinney. Rep. Karen Boback presents Dallas Fire Department Chief Harry Vivian with a certificate of appreciation for the department in honor of National Fire Prevention and Safety Month. Chief Vivian is pictured along with members of the department. Rep. Boback participated in this year’s Dallas Kiwanis Club’s Halloween party. Pictured are, from left: Bernie Banks, Jim Snyder, Charles Kishbaugh, Susie Dobash and Rep. Boback Rep. Phyllis Mundy, Trula Hollywood, Director of the Luzerne/Wyoming County Area Agency on Aging and Rep. Karen Boback participated in an Elder Justice Seminar held on Wednesday, October 9th. The seminar was sponsored by the representatives and hosted authorities from the fields of long-term care planning, power of attorney and estate planning, guardianship, crimes against the elderly, and the principles and practices of elder justice. On Oct 8, Rep. Boback joined the Wyoming County Commissioners as they signed a proclamation sponsored by Tunkhannock BPW declaring Oct 21-25 as National Business Women's Week in Wyoming County. The Proclamation urges all citizens in Wyoming County, all civic and fraternal groups, all educational associations, all news media and other community organizations to join this salute to working women. Rep. Boback joined many of her colleagues in marking the start of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In honor of the occasion, the East Wing Capitol fountain was turned pink. Rep. Boback was visited in late September by members of the 10 and 11 year-old girls Bob Horlacher All-Star Softball Team, which captured this year’s Pennsylvania State Little League Championship. Participating, are, front row, from left, Sen. Lisa Baker, Boback, team members Faith Jones, Megan Straley, Mackayla Quick, Erin Dunn, along with Gramma Lois Rought, Nancy Jones, and Dale Quick. In the second row are BH members: Delaney Romanchick, Kaci Coole, Sarah Kuderka, Hope Jones, Kassidy Shirtz, and Jena Simmons, along with Gale Quick, and Kathy Kaulfers. In the third row are Gloria Rought, Colleen Kuderka, John Kuderka, Doug Jones, Pete Romanchick, Jim Dunn, and Levi Westfield. In the fourth row are Don Rought, Elsie Shirtz, Danielle Simmons, Dale Jenkins, Dave Straley, and JoAnna Straley. In the fifth row are Erik Wright, Lee Reeves, Karli Coole, Kristina Coole, and Dale Wright. Not pictured was Loren Kaufers. Rep. Karen Boback participates in a press conference on Sept. 24, 2013. The event was held to raise awareness of House Bill 1420, which was authored by Boback and would require pulse oximetry screenings for newborns. Rep. Karen Boback with Shannon Witkouski, of Beaver, who was born with a congenital heart defect. Such defects could be more easily detected with newborn pulse oximetry testing. House Bill 1420, authored by Boback, would require such testing. On Sept. 17 and 18, Rep. Boback participated in an event involving a panel of judges from the Pennsylvania Superior Court. The guests held a special session at the Dallas Senior High School. Activities over the two days included a one-hour program dedicated to military veterans. For the first time, Rep. Karen Boback will coordinate with Misericordia University, local veterans organizations, Metz Culinary Management and the Dallas High School Student Leaders in Civics Club, on a Veterans Recognition Event, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 9. Pictured, from left to right, include: Dr. Mari King, Jane Dessoye, Ronald Santora, Boback, Misericordia University President Tom Botzman, Sydney Huff, Wyoming County Director of Veterans Affairs Jack Hubert, Darlene Headley and John Headley. Dallas High School Student Leaders in Civics Members are Aidan McLaughlin, Grace Schaub, Madalyn Bozinski, Erik Dyril, A.J. Nardone, Patrick Gelso, Deckland Cerza and Nora Tidey. Missing from photo: Sandra and Art Peoples, advisory committee members; Tom Gilroy, adviser, Student Leaders in Civics Club; and Patrick Newhart, president, Dallas Student Leaders in Civics Club. Rep. Karen Boback was joined by Rep. Sandra Major at their annual Senior Expo, held Aug. 22 in Tunkhannock. Rep. Boback visited the Falls Senior Center on Aug. 12, where she met with members of the center and Secretary of Aging Brian Duke. During a visit to the Active Adult Center in Falls, Wyoming County, on Aug. 12, Rep. Boback had a chance to speak with Pennsylvania Aging Secretary Brian Duke about issues currently facing senior citizens across the 117th District and around Pennsylvania. Since the elder abuse event she held in late July in Dallas, she has heard even more local seniors being scammed. It is so very important to raise greater awareness about elder abuse and fraudulent activity, and sharing these stories at places like area senior centers is a great way to let people know about the various schemes going on in our communities. Rep. Boback talks to area seniors at her Annual Senior Expo held at Misericordia University in Dallas on Aug. 8. These expos are designed to bring representatives from these agencies and groups together and allow senior citizens to learn more about them and to ask questions, all under one roof. In addition to various health screenings, three break-out sessions were held on senior legal issues, fraud and identity theft, and Area Agency on Aging programs. Pam Zaremba (left), a representative of the Pennsylvania Alliance for Retired Americans, and Rep. Karen Boback talk with David Shallcross of the attorney general’s office during Boback’s annual Senior Expo at Misericordia University in Dallas on Aug. 8. Shallcross spoke to local seniors about fraud and identity theft during a break-out session that morning. On July 30, Reps. Karen Boback and Gerald Mullery hosted a visit from the Mobile Vet Center to Mountaintop. This is the first visit to this area, and they were happy to help host additional visits. They are pictured with (from left): Retired Col. Gene Haverlak, U.S. Air Force; Don Zampetti, Wright Township supervisor; Jerry Urban, Wright Township supervisor; Gretchen Bentler, outreach technician, Scranton Vet Center; and Joe May, readjustment counselor, Vet Center. Luzerne County District Attorney Stefanie J. Salavantis joined Rep. Karen Boback and Auditor General Eugene DePasquale for an event July 29 at Misericordia University in Dallas to raise awareness of elder abuse. Auditor General Eugene DePasquale spoke to members of the Dallas Senior Center on July 29 about ways in which they can protect themselves from fraud and schemes, and how his office is working to make sure that each of their tax dollars is used wisely and efficiently. Among his duties, he can call for audits of nursing homes in Pennsylvania and any program in which state money is used. During a visit to the Dallas Senior Center on July 29, Rep. Karen Boback spoke to local residents about her work with the Luzerne County Elder Abuse Task Force and ways in which seniors can protect themselves or observe the signs of elder abuse in their friends and loved ones. Boback brought Attorney General Kathleen Kane and Auditor General Eugene DePasquale to Dallas to raise awareness of elder abuse. Reps. Phyllis Mundy and Karen Boback welcomed Attorney General Kathleen Kane to Dallas this week for an event to raise awareness of elder abuse, frauds and identity theft. Both Mundy and Boback are founding members of the Luzerne County Elder Abuse Task Force. Rep. Karen Boback recently read to children at the "Dig into Reading" Summer Program at Back Mountain Memorial Library in Dallas. John McKernan, a lineman with Claverack Rural Electric Cooperative, demonstrated some of his job responsibilities on July 20, when Rep. Karen Boback attended the electric cooperative’s 76th annual meeting in Wysox. John works out of the cooperative’s Tunkhannock district. More than 1,600 people attended the yearly event. During the Claverack Rural Electric Cooperative’s 76th annual meeting in Wysox on July 20, Rep. Boback had the opportunity to speak to its membership about legislative issues impacting both the utility industry and rural Pennsylvania. Claverack serves a 2,250-square mile area in eight counties of Northeastern Pennsylvania and maintains more than 2,700 miles of lines. As a member of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, Rep. Karen Boback (center) recently joined other legislators and members of the Pennsylvania National Guard Association at a rally in the Capitol Rotunda urging Congress to exempt 1,800 Pennsylvania National Guard technicians from furloughs as a result of the federal budget sequestration. Rep. Karen Boback recently had the opportunity to host students from Evans Falls Elementary in Harrisburg. They had the opportunity to tour the Capitol and learn more about state government. Rep. Karen Boback recently had the opportunity to host students from Roslund Elementary in Harrisburg. They had the opportunity to tour the Capitol and learn more about state government. Rep. Karen Boback recently participated in Lake-Lehman School District’s “Knight of Mayhem” on June 1. "Knight of Mayhem" truly encompasses the school's motto of generosity and emphasizes the importance of community involvement. The student body also stepped up and became involved in the carnival. For months, students in grades K-12 sold "Cow-Pie Bingo" deeds which have become a large means of revenue for the event. Rep. Karen Boback recently attended a “Discovering Tomorrow’s Leaders in Wyoming County” award ceremony at Tunkhannock Area Middle School. Each year, this program gives local residents the opportunity to nominate Wyoming County students who have displayed outstanding leadership qualities within the local 4-H Club or any other 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Rep. Karen Boback recently attended a “Discovering Tomorrow’s Leaders in Wyoming County” award ceremony at Tunkhannock Area Middle School. Each year, this program gives local residents the opportunity to nominate Wyoming County students who have displayed outstanding leadership qualities within the local 4-H Club or any other 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. As an advocate for women’s health, Rep. Karen Boback recently joined the Pennsylvania Breast Care Coalition as they celebrated 20 years of education, outreach and advocacy last week at a rally in the Capitol. Thirty-two women, all in pink, stood on the Capitol steps to represent the 32 women diagnosed with breast cancer in Pennsylvania every day. With spring and summer sports season now underway, Rep. Karen Boback recently threw the first pitch out at the opening day for the Mountain Top Little League. Rep. Karen Boback recently joined dozens of her colleagues and more than 100 Pennsylvanians as she participated in this year’s Second Amendment Rally on the steps outside of the State Capitol building. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. Rep. Karen Boback is committed to reaching out to her constituents and participating in a variety of events held by organizations within the 117th Legislative District. State Rep. Karen Boback, also a Rotarian, recently received a Paul Harris Fellow Award for “Service Above Self.” Pictured from left to right include Club President Todd Buckley; Past President Sandy Peoples; Boback; and Past President Buz Boback. Rep. Karen Boback recently participated in a Back Mountain Community Partnership meeting. Last year, this organization was awarded a $975,000 Local Share Grant to purchase equipment for the Emergency Management Agency. Another grant was awarded this year for additional emergency management equipment and police equipment totaling $200,000. The NEPA Alliance is the administrator of the Partnership and wrote both grant applications. Some of the equipment pictured here was purchased with last year’s grant. Rep. Karen Boback recently participated in a Back Mountain Community Partnership meeting. Last year, this organization was awarded a $975,000 Local Share Grant to purchase equipment for the Emergency Management Agency. Another grant was awarded this year for additional emergency management equipment and police equipment totaling $200,000. The NEPA Alliance is the administrator of the Partnership and wrote both grant applications. Some of the equipment pictured here was purchased with last year’s grant. Rep. Karen Boback recently participated in a Back Mountain Community Partnership meeting. Last year, this organization was awarded a $975,000 Local Share Grant to purchase equipment for the Emergency Management Agency. Another grant was awarded this year for additional emergency management equipment and police equipment totaling $200,000. The NEPA Alliance is the administrator of the Partnership and wrote both grant applications. Some of the equipment pictured here was purchased with last year’s grant. Rep. Karen Boback recently participated in a Back Mountain Community Partnership meeting. Last year, this organization was awarded a $975,000 Local Share Grant to purchase equipment for the Emergency Management Agency. Another grant was awarded this year for additional emergency management equipment and police equipment totaling $200,000. The NEPA Alliance is the administrator of the Partnership and wrote both grant applications. Some of the equipment pictured here was purchased with last year’s grant. State Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming), pictured at the far right, on Tuesday participated in a news conference at the state Capitol to reintroduce the Property Tax Independence Act. <div>Rep. Karen Boback is pictured here reviewing the governor’s proposed $28.44 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year during his recent budget address on Feb. 5. Additional proposed budget information can be found on the House Appropriations’ website at <a href="http://www.PABudget.com">www.PABudget.com</a>.</div> Rep. Karen Boback, on New Year’s Day in Harrisburg, was joined by her family, friends and supporters as she took the oath of office and was officially sworn in to serve her fourth term as the state representative for the 117th Legislative District. Among those sworn into office in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives were 29 freshmen members, 10 Republican and 19 Democrats. Rep. Karen Boback recently presented a citation to Zach Wilbur at his Eagle Scout Ceremony. Rep. Karen Boback recently attended a dedication ceremony at Roaring Brook Baptist Church. Rep. Karen Boback recently spoke to students at a Veterans Day celebration at Lake-Lehman High School. Rep. Karen Boback recently spoke to students and veterans at a Veterans Day celebration at Northwest Area High School. Rep. Karen Boback participated in a Veterans Day celebration at Benton Area High School. Rep. Karen Boback participated in a Veterans Day celebration at Benton Area High School. Rep. Karen Boback participated in a Veterans Day celebration at Benton Area High School. Rep. Karen Boback is pictured here with the Wilkes-Barre Veterans' Day Parade Reviewing Stand. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Luzerne/Columbia/Wyoming) was pleased to welcome the Rev. Jim Pall and his son, Garrett, to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on Oct. 2 when Pastor Pall served as guest chaplain and Garrett served as a guest page. Pastor Pall is the senior most chaplain in the State Correctional Institution system in Pennsylvania and is now in his 26th year as chaplain at SCI-Dallas. He is a full traveling elder of the Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church and serves part-time at the Huntsville United Methodist Church. Garrett is a student in the Dallas School District. On Sept. 6, Rep. Karen Boback had the opportunity to introduce Senator Pat Toomey at the Luzerne County Courthouse, as he spoke to a bipartisan crowd of veterans and detailed two veteran-related bills he’s had a hand in crafting. Rep. Karen Boback had the pleasure of participating in the opening ceremonies at the Luzerne County Fair. Each year, the Representative looks forward to hosting the fair in Luzerne County. Rep. Karen Boback had the pleasure of participating in the opening ceremonies at the Luzerne County Fair. Each year, the Representative looks forward to hosting the fair in Luzerne County. Rep. Karen Boback had the pleasure of participating in the opening ceremonies at the Luzerne County Fair. Each year, the Representative looks forward to hosting the fair in Luzerne County. Rep. Karen Boback had the pleasure of participating in the opening ceremonies at the Luzerne County Fair. Each year, the Representative looks forward to hosting the fair in Luzerne County. Rep. Karen Boback had the pleasure of participating in the opening ceremonies at the Luzerne County Fair. Each year, the Representative looks forward to hosting the fair in Luzerne County. Rep. Karen Boback recently participated in the historical name change ceremony and celebration for Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Mental Health and Developmental Services, formerly Mental Health and Mental Retardation Program. Item is auctioned at the Back Mountain Library Auction by Rep. Boback and Steve Traver Rep. Boback and Steve Traver on the block at the Back Mountain Library Auction Rep. Boback and Tunkhannock District Office staffer, Carol Sweeney, auctioning an item at the Back Mountain Library Auction Members of the Mountain Top Business Alliance are pictured here with Rep. Boback, Senator Baker, and Leigh Bonczewski of Rep. Mullery's office Citations are presented to Carrie and Sheri Kline for their work in support of the Wounded Warrior Project by Rep. Boback and Leigh Bonczewski on behalf of Rep. Mullery Rep. Boback presents a Legislative Citation to Jenna Neubauer for her work and coordination on the Vets to DC Project WBRE-TV News Team is presented a Legislative Citation by Rep. Boback for their coverage of the 2011 Flooding Keynote Speaker, Karen Boback, delivers her remarks at the Mountain Top 4th of July Parade sponsored by Mountain Top on the Move Rep. Boback riding with the Fort Ricketts VFW in the Benton Fire Company Water Parade Noxen Township Fire Chief Keith Hackling handling a rattlesnake at the Noxen Rattlesnake Roundup Legislative Citations are presented by Rep. Boback to Mark Navin and Ryan Hoyt for attaining their Eagle Scout rank Rep.Boback and the Lake-Lehman High School Band at the Sweet Valley Parade Members of the US Army pictured with Rep. Boback at the Sweet Valley Parade Lake-Lehman High School "Knights" Cheerleaders are pictured with Rep. Boback at the Sweet Valley Parade Rep. Boback the Keynote Speaker at the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade delivers her remarks Members of Boy Scout Troop 4 pictured with Rep. Boback at the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade Members of the Northwest Area High School Marching Band are pictured with Rep. Boback at the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade Rep. Boback riding in the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade Rep. Boback and Anne Grover, former Mayor of Shickshinny Borough in the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade Rep. Boback addresses the crowd as the Keynote Speaker at the Nescopeck/Berwick Memorial Day Ceremony Nescopeck/Bercik Memorial Day Ceremony Rep. Boback participated in the Nescopeck/Berwick Memorial Day Parade Evans Falls Elementary School Memorial Day Observance - Rep. Boback was the Keynote Speaker Reps. Major & Boback present a citation to the Tunkhannock Kiwanis Club on the occasion of their 65th Anniversary Citation presentation to Duane Seltzer for 41 years of service with the Dorrance Township Volunteer Fire Company Rep. Boback was the keynote speaker at the National Day of Prayer at the Centermoreland United Methodist Church First pitch at opening-day of the Mountain Top Baseball & Softball Association First pitch at opening-day of the Mountain Top Baseball & Softball Association Rep. Boback pictured at the Eagle Scout ceremony of Blake Eisenhower. Rep. Boback at the Shickshinny American Legion Benefit Auction Citation is presented to Robert Naylor for 34 years of service with the PA Farm Bureau and the PA Farm Bureau Board by Reps. Karen Boback and Sid Kavulich Speaker at Dallas Lions Club Charter Night Rep. Boback and officers of the Dallas Lions Club Rep. Karen Boback recently presented a citation to Duane Seltzer, of Dorrence Township, as he was recognized for his retirement after 41 years of service with the township's volunteer fire department. Rep. Karen Boback recently presented a citation to Duane Seltzer, of Dorrence Township, as he was recognized for his retirement after 41 years of service with the township's volunteer fire department. Rep. Karen Boback recently presented a citation to Duane Seltzer, of Dorrence Township, as he was recognized for his retirement after 41 years of service with the township's volunteer fire department. Rep. Boback recently presented a flag to the Twin City Lions Club for use on the Route 239 Bridge in Mocanaqua. Pictured from left to right, are Dan Hinchcliff, president of Twin City Lions; Gilbert Gleco, former district governor of Lions District 14-W; Rep. Boback and Tom MacDougall, technical supervisor for Frontier Communications. Frontier volunteered their time and equipment to put the flags up on the light poles. Rep Boback is pictured here with the Dallas Lions Club's officers. She was recently the keynote speaker at the club's Charter Night. During her March visit to Dallas High School, Rep. Boback congratulated Mr. Kevin West, teacher and Life Smarts coach, for his efforts to encourage and support his students. Under the direction of West, the Dallas Life Smarts team is heading to the Life Smarts national championship competition in Philadelphia. Boback wished West and his team luck in the prestigious competition. In February, Rep. Boback hosted Mehoopany residents Stephanie McKaskle and her daughter, Carolyn, to recognize Congenital Heart Defect Week in Pennsylvania, which was designated as the second week of February by a Boback resolution. Recently, Rep. Karen Boback swore in students at the Red Rock Job Corps Center to be dorm leaders. Red Rock Job Corps Center is located near Rickett’s Glen State Park. Students who attend the center are trained in a variety of fields, from office administration to brick masonry. On March 16, Rep. Boback presented an American flag to be flown at the new Dallas High School. Accepting the flag on behalf of the school was Mr. Jeffrey Shaffer, high school principal. Boback also congratulated the Dallas High School Life Smarts team for winning the state Life Smarts competition. The students will be going to the national competition in Philadelphia in April. Recently, Rep. Karen Boback had the opportunity to visit the Pennsylvania Farm Show and speak with Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture George Greig (right). She also met with Dan Naylor (left), regional director of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Region 3 office in Tunkhannock. As a member of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, Rep. Boback strive to remain in contact with Pennsylvania’s agricultural producers and policymakers. Rep. Karen Boback joined her colleagues in Harrisburg for a gathering of the agricultural caucus. Boback has been a long-time advocate for agriculture and issues impacting rural Pennsylvania. On Nov. 9, Rep. Boback presented a proclamation to the Falls Senior Center to recognize its efforts during Active Aging Week, which was held Sept. 25 through Oct. 2. The presentation was originally scheduled for that week, but was postponed due to area flooding. Pictured with Boback is Twila Watkins, manager of the Falls Senior Center. During Rep. Boback’s Annual Veterans Recognition Event, Victor and Chloe Marino, children of Congressman Tom Marino (PA-10), displayed the Honor and Remember Flag. With the enactment of Boback’s House Bill 385, which is now Act 19 of 2011, the flag is the official Pennsylvania emblem for fallen armed forces personnel and is required to be permanently flown in Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Grove near the state Capitol. At a ceremonial signing last week of her House Bill 385, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) presented Gov. Tom Corbett with a commemorative Honor and Remember pin. In June, Corbett officially signed the legislation into law as Act 19 of 2011. The law establishes the Honor and Remember Flag as an official Pennsylvania emblem for fallen soldiers and requires the flag to be permanently flown in Soldiers’ Grove, near the state Capitol. The bill signing was attended by veterans; members of military; Major General Wesley E. Craig, The Adjutant General of Pennsylvania; George Lutz, Honor and Remember founder; and the Pennsylvania Gold Star Mothers. Recently, Rep. Boback hosted two Senior Identity Theft Seminars in conjunction with the Pennsylvania attorney general's office. The purpose of the event was to equip senior citizens with the information they need to spot scams and protect their identities and finances. As a follow up to a spring hearing about Pennsylvania's nuclear emergency response preparedness, Rep. Boback and the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee visited the nuclear power plant in Limerick to learn about how the plants are run and the response procedures they have in place. Last week, Rep. Boback visited Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon, which is a National Guard training center and home to the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. As the chairman of the subcommittee on Military and Veterans Facilities, she was happy to help lead the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee members on a tour of the facility. The members of the committee learned a lot of valuable information about Pennsylvania’s National Guard Training Center and its role in safeguarding the Commonwealth. Pictured with Boback is majority chairman of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware). As an advocate for breast cancer awareness, I was proud to “take a swing against breast cancer” for the PA Breast Cancer Coalition. Rep. Sandra Major and I congratulated Annette Smith, Executive Director of the Wyoming County Family Resource Center, who was named Tunkhannock Local Business and Professional Women’s Club’s 2011 Woman of the Year. I greatly enjoyed interacting with and reading to children participating in Luzern County’s Head Start program during my visit to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dallas. This year, I was appointed to be a member of the advisory council for the Gino Merli Veterans Center. As the chairman of Military and Veterans Facilities Subcommittee, I am deeply concerned about providing our veterans with the top-notch facilities they deserve. Pictured (from left) are Brigadier General (PA) Michael G. Gould, me, Sen. Lisa Baker, and Francis Tyson. On June 28, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) attended the bill signing of House Bill 40, known as the Castle Doctrine.  Boback advocated the measure for several years and supports the legislation, which will protect the right of law-abiding citizens to defend home and family from criminals. Recently, Rep. Boback participated in an event to raise money for food banks and strike out hunger. Boback was one of 80 legislators to bowl to end hunger, which has been on the rise since the start of the worldwide recession. Recently, Rep. Boback met with students who participate in the Power of 10 program at Lake Lehman High School. Pictured from left (seated) are Rigina Modrovsky, R.N. certified school nurse; Boback; Sen. Lisa Baker; Alice Alexander, drug and alcohol prevention and education specialist with the Wyoming Valley Alcohol and Drug Services Inc.; (standing) Nina Jones; Rebecca Craft; Tamara Davis; Brittany Acevedo; Lacy Lawson and Emily Sutton. Recently, Rep. Boback attended a missing children awareness event at the Kunkle Fire Company in Dallas. As the sponsor of a House resolution to recognize May 25, as “National Missing Children’s Day,” Boback applauded the fire company for its efforts to protect children, as well as saving lives through its firefighting duties. Recently, students from Lake-Noxen Elementary School in Harveys Lake made a trip to Harrisburg to tour the state Capitol. Rep. Boback welcomed the students and answered their questions about state government. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne/Monroe/Pike/Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming) have facilitated a visit from the Department of Veterans Affairs’ mobile veterans center to the Dallas Shopping Center on Memorial Highway in Dallas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, May 20.   Pictured (from left) are Baker; Mark Burrier, Mobile Vet Center technician; Boback; and Joseph J. May, readjustment counselor. Recently, Rep. Boback participated in the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce legislative breakfast, during which she presented the Back Mountain Community Partnership with a House citation recognizing it for being awarded the 2011 Northeastern Pennsylvania Community Progress Award. Boback also thanked the chamber for hosting this wonderful event, which focused on the issues impacting our Commonwealth. On Saturday, April 9, Rep. Boback attended the grand opening of The Lands at Hillside Farms Mooseum, which is a project of Leadership Wilkes-Barre. On April 5, the House unanimously approved legislation authored by Rep. Karen Boback to recognize the Honor and Remember Flag as a symbol of the service and sacrifice of all fallen U.S. Armed Forces personnel since the nation’s founding. Boback and Rep. Mark Gillen (R-Berks) displayed the flag in the House chamber. If the legislation is approved by the Senate and signed into law by Gov. Tom Corbett, the flag will be displayed in Soldiers Grove at the state Capitol. On Feb. 9, Rep. Karen Boback spoke at an event hosted by the PA Breast Cancer Coalition to raise awareness of the option offered to Pennsylvania income tax filers to donate their state income tax returns to breast and cervical cancer research. Filers wishing to exercise this life-saving option can check line 35 on the PA-40 form. On Jan. 4, Rep. Boback took the oath of office to start her third term representing the 117th House District in Columbia, Luzerne and Wyoming counties. Boback will continue to remain accessible to the people she serves and will keep fighting for the rights of veterans, senior citizens and children. She is pictured with her husband, Bernard. On Dec. 22, Rep. Boback attended the Union Township Christmas Open House. Standing (from left) are Lori Ragazzo, township manager; John Belles, supervisor; Ed Raineri, supervisor; and Allan Sorber, supervisor. Boback is seated in front. On Dec. 7, Rep. Boback visited the Dallas Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) to speak about her leadership experience and what it means to be a state representative. Pictured from left are Sam Savoy, Dallas FBLA president; Linda Shrader, adviser; Boback; and Rachel Alles, Dallas FBLA secretary. On Dec. 6, Rep. Karen Boback attended a special wreath-laying ceremony at the Capitol to honor America’s fallen soldiers. During this joyous, but busy season, it is vital to pause to remember those who have served this country and those who have died in the name of the United States. Reps. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) and Sandra Major (R-Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming) have secured regular visits from the mobile vet center to assist veterans in the Tunkhannock area.  The mobile vet center will be in the area from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of the month, starting on Nov. 1 and again on Nov. 15, at the intersection of Route 29 and the Route 6 By-Pass in Tunkhannock, across the street from Gay’s True Value.  Pictured from left are Boback, Joseph May, Gretchen Bentler, Mark Burrier, Major and Wyoming County Commissioners Anthony Litwin and Stark Bartron. On Thursday, Oct. 14, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) and Misericordia University will host a senior expo for residents of the 117th Legislative District. Boback recently met with some of the area agencies and businesses that will participate in the event, including the Endless Mountain Lyme Disease Support Group, the Back Mountain Library, Meadows Nursing and Rehab Center, Village at Greenbriar, Endless Mountain Nature Center, Wyoming Valley Health Care, Luzerne/Wyoming Area Agency on Aging, Asby & Zeigler Audiology, Associated Family Health Care, the Alzheimer’s Association, Mary Kay Cosmetics, OxyMed Homecare, and SPCA of Luzerne County. As part of Animal Disaster Preparedness Week and National Preparedness Month, Rep. Karen Boback introduced a resolution to bring attention to the pets, livestock and other farm animals that become the forgotten victims of natural and manmade disasters, urging animal owners to plan ahead in the event of an emergency. Pictured from left are Robert French, director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency; Nan Hanshaw, chief of animal and poultry health for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture; Russell Redding, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture; Boback; and Rep. Anthony Melio (D-Bucks). Smidgen, a therapy dog owned by Hanshaw, is seated in front. Rep. Boback visited the Village at Greenbriar for an Italian-themed party and presented certificates to the residents who were age 90 or older. From left, seated, are Millie Bond, June Tannenbaum and Helen Bednarz. Second row, Joe Sims, Edith Pillarella and Bernice Gordon. Third row, Cheryl Howatch, administrator; Thelma Baker, office manager; Lynmarie Young, activities director; and Boback. On June 28, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) hosted a special ceremony at the Capitol to honor the military service of retired Sgt. Robert Wayne “Buddy” Costigan, a decorated disabled veteran who served during the Vietnam War. The ceremony was attended by Costigan’s family, fellow northeastern Pennsylvania veterans and other dignitaries. Pictured from left are: (seated) Boback, Costigan, Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne/Monroe/Pike/Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming), and Rep. Russ Fairchild (R-Snyder/Union); (standing) Ronald Skamanich of Duryea, Michael Bean of Noxen, George Casterline of Harveys Lake, Robert Visakay of Dixon City, George Wood of Dallas and SFC Raymond Spriggs of Dallas. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) attended the flag presentation in honor of fallen soldier 1st Lt. Michael J. Cleary, who was killed in December 2005 in Iraq. The personalized flag was presented by Honor and Remember to Jack Cleary, Michael’s father. The mission of Honor and Remember is to perpetually recognize all military lives lost in defense of our national freedoms. Pictured with Boback are George Lutz, founder and executive director of Honor and Remember, and Jack Cleary. Rep. Boback attended the dedication of the bricks at the Northern Columbia County Cultural Center in Benton. The event was held in honor of those American soldiers who gave their lives protecting freedom and preserving liberty. Rep. Boback, along with Reps. Phyllis Mundy and Eddie Day Pashinski, presented a citation to musician Bobby Baird. Rep. Boback commemorates Memorial Day with veterans in Berwick. Rep. Boback was the keynote speaker at the Evans Falls Elementary School Memorial Day Program. Rep. Boback, as the keynote speaker for the Nescopeck/Berwick Memorial Day parade, speaks about the importance of remembering America’s fallen heroes, not only on Memorial Day, but every day. Rep. Boback rides in the 2010 Nescopeck/Berwick Memorial Day Parade. On May 31, Rep. Boback visited the Sweet Valley Volunteer Fire Company and presented its members with a citation in honor of the 50th anniversary of the fire company. Boback thanks the volunteers for their dedication to service and devotion to the community. Rep. Boback and Sen. Lisa Baker sell tickets at the Sweet Valley Fire Company Fair. Rep. Boback was pleased to be the keynote speaker at the 51st Tunkhannock Area School District Awards Banquet, honoring the top six graduating seniors for their leadership and academic accomplishments. Congratulations to all the graduating seniors and good luck with your future endeavors! On May 17, Rep. Boback spoke at the Dallas School District Student Leadership in Civics Club Dinner. Pictured from left are (first row) Ann Butler, Adrienne Box, Boback, Hilary Hoover, Katelyn Reinert and Joanne Drayer; (second row) Dan Nestorick, Drew Schaub, Ryan Hogan, Christopher Dailey, Lance Machovec, Adam Viercinski and Tom Gilroy. Rep. Karen Boback has been named the Woman of the Year for 2010 by the District Eight Business and Professional Women’s (BPW) Club. Boback was chosen for her exceptional leadership, integrity and distinguished achievements for the betterment of her community. Pictured from left are Linda Sokoloski, Tunkhannock BPW president; Boback; and Antoinette Mackar, District Eight BPW president. Rep. Karen Boback and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne/Monroe/Pike/Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming) visit the champion Dallas High School LifeSmarts Team. Rep. Boback attended the Eagle Scout ceremony for Brian LaWall of Boy Scout Troop 379 of Wapwallopen. Rep. Karen Boback visited with Boy Scout Troop 379 of Wapwallopen. Rep. Boback visited Josephine Ziminski to wish her a happy 90th birthday and present her with a citation from the House of Representatives. On March 16, Rep. Boback met with area county conservation district officials to discuss the important role these agencies play in protecting our environment and natural resources. Pictured (seated, from left) are: Maryann Warren, Susquehanna County commissioner; Vic Cappucci of the Wyoming County Conservation District Board; and Bob Robbins, Wyoming County Conservation District Board Chairman (standing) Rep. Sandy Major (R-Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming); Boback; Jack Hanish, associate director of the Luzerne Conservation District; Jim Garner of the Susquehanna County Conservation District; Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne/Monroe/Pike/Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming); and Josh Longmore, district manager of the Luzerne Conservation District. On March 9, Rep. Boback welcomed the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania to the Capitol in Harrisburg. Boback, a long-time member of the league, supports its mission of informed and active participation in government. Rep. Boback congratulates the Dallas High School LifeSmarts Team for its victory in the March 2 LifeSmarts Competition. The competition focused on five areas of consumer knowledge needed to function in the modern marketplace including personal finance, consumer rights and responsibilities, health and safety, technology and the environment. Boback wishes the team success as it travels to Florida in April to compete in the 16th Annual LifeSmarts National Championship. The team is coached by Kevin West and Candyce Fike, and the members include Katelyn Reinert, Kevin Hunter, Pierce Donovan, Tim Reinert, and Monica Esopi. In February, Rep. Boback and Sen. Lisa Baker attended the Eagle Scout ceremony for Matthew and Garret Hopfer. As an advocate for landowner rights, Rep. Boback attended a meeting hosted by the Columbia County Land Owners Coalition regarding drilling into the Marcellus Shale. Boback attended to give an update about state government policy on drilling and to talk about proposed legislation. She appreciated those residents who came out to share information and voice their concerns about this important issue. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) displays the more than 2,000 signatures on her Petition to Protect Women’s Health, which urges Congress to apply the American Cancer Society (ACS) guidelines for breast cancer screening. These guidelines recommend annual mammograms for women beginning at age 40. The petition drive was started in reaction to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force release of new recommendations, which would delay mammograms for a decade and reduce the number of screenings. On Tuesday, the House unanimously approved a resolution authored by Boback, urging Congress to use the ACS guidelines in crafting its health care reform legislation. Rep. Karen Boback attended a hearing of the House Judiciary Committee on Nov. 19, during which testimony was heard about Pennsylvania gun and property owner rights. Rep. Boback supports the rights of property owners to defend themselves and is a proponent of Second Amendment rights. Rep. Karen Boback attended the annual Rattlesnake Roundup at the Noxen Township Fire Company. Members of the fire company assisted Boback with handling a rattlesake. Rep. Karen Boback is pictured with Dorn White and Linda Coolbaugh of Quality Deer Management. Misericordia University honored Rep. Karen Boback with the Mother Mary Catherine McGann Alumni Achievement Award. Boback is pictured with Dr. Michael MacDowell, university president. The Wyoming County Business and Professional Women recognized Rep. Karen Boback as the recipient of the 2009 Woman of the Year Award. Boback is pictured with the organization’s president, Janet Roeber. Rep. Boback visited the SPCA of Luzerne County to present a resolution declaring June “Pennsylvania Animal Shelter Appreciation Month” and to thank the organization for the important role it plays in animal welfare in the Commonwealth. Accepting the resolution are, Cindy Starke, shelter manager, and Vince Sweeney, executive director. On July 1, Rep. Boback attended an anti-tax rally in the Capitol Rotunda and signed on to the effort to balance the 2009-10 budget, protect public safety and human services, and educate our children without raising taxes. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) attended the signing of House Bill 1648, which will create a commission to investigate the Luzerne County juvenile justice system. Pictured from left are Chief Justice Ronald Castille, Eddie Day Pashinski (D-Luzerne), Governor Edward Rendell, Boback and Todd Eachus (D-Luzerne). Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) urged the adoption of a temporary House rule that would allow for every member of the House to contribute to budget negotiations. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Craig Dally (R-Northampton), has received bipartisan support. The Pennsylvania Federation of Dog Clubs presented Rep. Boback with its 2008 “Session Best of Breed Legislator” award for her efforts to move the Commonwealth’s dog law through the legislative process, while balancing the welfare of dogs with the rights of owners and breeders. On Sept. 12, Rep. Boback attended the opening of the Marian Sutherland Kirby Library in Mountaintop. In October, Rep. Boback toured the Procter & Gamble plant in Mehoopany to learn more about manufacturing in Pennsylvania. On Dec. 8, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) announced that she is introducing a House Resolution that would urge Congress to use the American Cancer Society guidelines for breast cancer screening, which include yearly mammograms for women starting at age 40. Boback’s HR 562 was brought about by new U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations, which would delay mammogram screenings for a decade and call for less frequent screening for women over the age of 50. Pictured from left are Rep. Sandra Major (R-Wyoming/Wayne/Susquehanna); Rep. Katie True (R-Lancaster); Rep. Stan Saylor (R-York); Pat Halpin-Murphy, president and founder of the PA Breast Cancer Coalition; Rep. Donna Oberlander (R-Clarion/Armstrong); Rep. Julie Harhart (R-Lehigh/Northampton); and Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford/Sullivan/Susquehanna). Rep. Karen Boback presented a special certificate to Rosemarie Pall of Sweet Valley for her induction into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame. Pall was awarded the distinction by Gov. Ed Rendell and Secretary of State Pedro Cortes for voting consecutively in every General Election for the past 50 years. Boback applauds Pall’s dedication to her right and civic duty to vote. Rep. Boback attended the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade and is pictured with grand marshal John Hasay and Jessie Turner. Rep. Boback meets with the Red Hat Ladies at the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade. Rep. Boback was the keynote speaker at the Shickshinny Memorial Day ceremony, and focused her remarks on the contributions and sacrifices of America’s soldiers. Rep. Boback met Jessie Turner and E-1 Aviation Boatsman Mate Brittany Kenworthy at the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade. Rep. Boback is photographed with Jessie Turner and Jake Baluta after the Shickshinny Memorial Day Parade. On April 28, Rep. Boback participated in a pay equity rally in the Capitol Rotunda. The rally was held to bring attention to the fact that in 2009 the average woman is still earning only 78 cents to every dollar earned by her male counterpart in the workplace. At the rate the pay gap is closing, women and men will be paid equally in the year 2057. Pay equity is not just a female issue; it is a family issue. On April 28, Rep. Boback participated in a rally to bring attention to the pay gap that exists between men and women in the workforce. In 2009, women earn only 78 cents for every dollar a man makes. At the rate in which the gap is closing, women may earn equal pay by 2057. Republican Leader Sam Smith (R-Jefferson) was the featured speaker at the event in the Capitol Rotunda. On April 20, Rep. Boback met with members of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors. Pictured from left are Lori Ragazzo, Union Township secretary/treasurer; Allan Sorber, Union Township supervisor; Boback; William Ferrey, Ross Township supervisor; and Barbara Ferrey. Rep. Karen Boback (R- Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) is joined by the PA Fair Queen Nicole Clemson, of Dallas, and Senator Lisa Baker (R-20) in Boback’s Harrisburg office. The Luzerne Coutny Fair Committee members visit State Rep. Karen Boback (R- Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) in her district office. Also in attendance were PA Fair Queen Nicole Clemson and Senator Lisa Baker (R-20). Rep. Karen Boback (R- Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming), Secretary of Agriculture Dennis Wolfe, PA Fair Queen Nicole Clemson and Carl T. Shaffer of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau tour the Capitol complex. State Reps. Karen Boback (R-Colombia/Luzerne/Wyoming) and Dave Millard (R-Columbia) visit with members of the Benton High School FFA. State Rep. Karen Boback (R-Colombia/Luzerne/Wyoming) presents Susan Turrell with a House citation for her years of service to the Tunkhannock Public Library. Adjutant General Major General Jessica Wright joins Rep. Karen Boback (R-Colombia/Luzerne/Wyoming) to discuss important issues. Boback chairs the Subcommittee on Military and Veterans Facilities and sits on the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee. Members of the Benton High School FFA spend the day at the State Capitol with Rep. Karen Boback (R-Colombia/Luzerne/Wyoming). On Friday, April 17, Reps. Karen Boback and David Millard (R-Millville) hosted an Identity Theft Seminar featuring presenter Joyce O’Brien, of the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. O’Brien gave an overview of ways to avoid identity theft and what to do if you find you are the victim of this increasing crime. On Thursday, April 16, Rep. Boback hosted an identity protection seminar with the Ethics Institute at Misericordia University. The event featured a presentation on identity theft from Joyce O’Brien of the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. Pictured from left are Dr. Charles Zola, chairman of the Ethics Institute at Misericordia University; O’Brien; Boback; and Dr. Michael MacDowell, president of Misericordia University. On Tuesday, April 14, Rep. Karen Boback hosted a Business and Taxpayer Economic Forum with the House Republican Policy Committee to hear the economic concerns of the citizens and their suggestions for improving Pennsylvania’s business climate. Pictured from left are Rep. Stan Saylor (R-York), chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee; Boback; and Rep. Seth Grove (R-York). On Tuesday, March 31, Rep. Karen Boback met with Pat Halpin-Murphy, president and founder of the PA Breast Cancer Coalition, to discuss the organization’s upcoming home run derby fundraiser. The Coalition, which provides helpful tips and support to women suffering breast cancer, is holding the events at minor league baseball stadiums across the Commonwealth. Rep. Karen Boback presents Charlotte Hadsall, former Wyoming County commissioner, with a House Citation commemorating her 90th birthday. Rep. Karen Boback attending a meeting of a local Alzheimer’s support group to learn more about the disease and how it is affecting individuals. Berwick veterans meet with Rep. Karen Boback to discuss important state issues. Rep. Karen Boback joins with members of the Dallas High School District Veterans Program to help honor the brave men and women who are fighting in the nation’s armed forces. Rep. Karen Boback joins with members of the Dallas High School District Veterans Program to help honor the brave men and women who are fighting in the nation’s armed forces. Rep. Boback participates in the Northwest School District Veterans Day ceremony alongside a number of local veterans. Luzerne County Community College hosts Rep. Karen Boback and several veterans for a ceremony honoring military men and women. Workers with the Cunningham Borough Department of Public Works are visited by Rep. Karen Boback. Rep. Karen Boback joins other participants in the Nuangola Centennial Celebration. Rep. Karen Boback is recognized for facilitating the award of a $10,000 grant by local officials in Nuangola. Rep. Karen Boback is recognized for facilitating the award of a $10,000 grant by local officials in Nuangola. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) presented the Dorrance Fire Company with a citation on their 50th anniversary of saving lives and serving the community. Pictured with Boback are (seated) Duane Seltzer, fire chief; Joseph Zurawski, fire company president; Benjamin Ostrowski, Royce Engler, Gary Zane, and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne). Rep. Boback, a member of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, holds an annual ceremony to honor local veterans. Pictured with Boback are Tom Owens, Wyoming County director of Veteran's Affairs; Jack Rickaby, POW-MIA Regional coordinator; and veteran Len Pallis of Tunkhannock. Rep. Boback attended an event in Shickshinny Borough with Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne), Donna Grubic, Mayor Beverly Moore and her grandson. Boback recently attended a check presentation from the Appalachian Regional Commission to Misericordia University for the expansion of its Nursing Learning Resource Laboratory. Pictured are Sara Hailstone, regional director of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development; Rep. Karen Boback; Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne); Michael A. MacDowell, president of Misericordia University; Vanessa A. Mayorowski, nursing faculty and lab coordinator; Jeffrey K. Box, president and CEO of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance; and Paul J. Macknosky, district director for Congressman Christopher P. Carney. Boback views a display of chicks at the 93rd Annual Pennsylvania Farm Show. Boback attended the Farm Show to observe the livestock exhibits and to interview Dennis Wolff, Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Agriculture, for her upcoming Legislative Report program. The program can be viewed on WLYN-TV, Channel 35, in Hazleton on Mondays at 9 p.m. and also at various times on ECTV in Scranton and Service Electric Cable in Wilkes-Barre. On Tuesday, Jan. 6, Boback took the oath of office to begin her second term representing the 117th District. Though swearing in day comes once every two years, Boback is always mindful of the oath she has taken to defend the constitutions of the United States and the Commonwealth. Rep. Boback offered the invocation during the Nov. 17 session of the House of Representatives. On Monday, Oct. 6, Boback joined Rep. Eugene DePasquale (D-York) in urging the Senate to act on legislation that would require retailers to pull unsafe toys from their shelves. On Sept. 20, Rep. Boback hosted her second annual Veterans Appreciation Ceremony, with a special remembrance for POW-MIAs. Rep. Boback and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne) are pictured here with local veterans. On Sept. 18, Boback hosted a property tax town hall meeting, during which Rep. Sam Rohrer (R-Berks) detailed his plan to eliminate property taxes in Pennsylvania. Rep. Boback and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne) recently recognized the 50 year anniversary of the Dorrance Township Volunteer Fire Department and their brave service to the Dorrance area. Pictured in the first row are Duane Seltzer, fire chief; and Joe Zurawski, president; and in the second row are Boback; Dorrance Township supervisors, Ben Ostrowski, Royce Engler, and Gary Zane; and Baker. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) has collaborated with veterans organizations throughout the year. She met with various veterans’ groups this summer in anticipation of her upcoming veterans appreciation ceremony. On Aug. 22, Rep. Boback participated in the grand opening of the recycled bridge, which extends the Delaware and Lehigh Trail in Luzerne County. The trail is open to those hiking and biking through this scenic area. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) with House Speaker Dennis O'Brien (R-Philadelphia) upon the signing of the autism insurance bill by the speaker before it was sent to the governor for enactment. O'Brien is the prime sponsor and Boback a co-sponsor of HB 1150, which will provide autism insurance coverage for diagnosis and treatment up to $36,000 a year. Rep. Boback stops at an informational booth at the Grandparents' Conference sponsored by Sen. Raphael Musto (D-14) that was held at the Genetti Hotel in Wilkes-Barre on Friday, May 30. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) read to students in Linda Brittain's second grade class at St. Jude School in Mountaintop. Rep. Karen Boback presents an American flag to Clarence Michael, commander of the Dallas American Legion Post, to be flown over the veteran’s memorial in Dallas. Boback will be an honored guest in the 2008 Memorial Day parade in Dallas on May 26. Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) congratulated Speaker of the House Dennis O’Brien (R-Philadelphia) on the success of his “Bang the Drum for Autism” event held in the Capitol Rotunda on April 2. O’Brien is the prime sponsor of legislation, supported by Boback, to require insurance companies to cover autism services. On March 11, Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming) joined with other Republicans to introduce a package of legislation to address drug crime in Pennsylvania. Boback’s legislation, House Bill 2221, would increase the penalty for committing a drug crime in the presence of a minor. Boback also held a hearing in the 117th District on the subject of crime and drug abuse in November 2007. Women’s History Month Noted – Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia/Luzerne/Wyoming), Josephine Marie Dunn, Ph.D. and Rep. Sandra Major (R-Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming) pose following Dunn’s presentation of her lecture “Alive to the Call: Women and History in Northeastern Pennsylvania” at the celebration of Women’s History Month in Pennsylvania. Major also spoke at the ceremony urging women, especially young women, to get involved in the political process. Currently, there are 27 women serving in the state House of Representatives. Boback and Rep. Mario Civera (R-Upper Darby), chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, review the governor's proposed budget for the 2008-09 fiscal year.
 
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