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Details: By DuBoisLIVE Team; Category: DuBois; 06 February 2026

DUBOIS: DuBois City Council voted Wednesday night to authorize city administration to begin preliminary regulatory steps toward potentially removing fluoride from the city’s public water supply, a move officials repeatedly stressed is not a final decision and will involve additional public notice, review, and public hearings.

The discussion comes amid renewed national and local debate over water fluoridation — a public health practice that has been in place for decades and is still supported by major medical and dental organizations, but which continues to raise questions about individual choice, operational risk, and cumulative exposure.

What Council Actually Approved — And What It Didn’t

Interim Co-City Manager Ben Kafferlin said the issue was raised at a prior meeting when a council member questioned whether the city should continue fluoridating its water. Initial discussion suggested a public referendum might be required, but further research determined that removal would instead involve a permitting process through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

“This is still a process, but a less involved process than originally thought,” Kafferlin said.

Under DEP rules, discontinuing fluoridation would require a major permit amendment, advance public notice to water customers and medical professionals, and updates to the city’s annual Consumer Confidence Report. No change to the water supply occurs as a result of Wednesday night’s vote.

City Solicitor Jason Sabol emphasized that point.

“This is council authorizing administration to take further steps toward removal of fluoridation,” Sabol said. “It’s not a final vote to remove fluoride from the water.”

History Of Flouride Use In DuBois

Fluoride has been part of the City of DuBois public water supply for more than six decades, following a community-wide debate and voter decision in the mid-20th century. In 1964, fluoridation emerged as a significant local issue as national public-health efforts promoted fluoride as a tool to reduce tooth decay. That year, DuBois residents voted in a municipal referendum on whether fluoride should be added to the city’s drinking water. The measure passed by an overwhelming margin, formally authorizing the city to move forward with fluoridation of the water system.

Local civic groups played a visible role during that period, particularly the DuBois Area Jaycees, who were widely credited with leading an educational campaign ahead of the 1964 vote. Contemporary accounts describe the Jaycees organizing informational outreach to residents about dental health and fluoridation, helping frame the issue for voters at the time. While historical records clearly document their involvement in public education, available sources do not definitively establish whether the organization directly funded fluoridation equipment or materials. Since the referendum’s passage, fluoridation has remained part of DuBois’s water treatment process, periodically resurfacing in public discussion as residents revisit the policy decades after its adoption.

Current Fluoride Levels In DuBois Water

According to the city’s most recent Consumer Confidence Report, DuBois’ water contains fluoride at 0.417 parts per million, added intentionally to promote dental health.

For comparison:

Federal regulations allow fluoride levels up to 4.0 mg/L
Pennsylvania’s maximum is 2.0 mg/L
The U.S. Public Health Service recommends an “optimal” level of 0.7 mg/L

City staff and consultants compiled a detailed memo outlining the advantages, disadvantages, and regulatory steps involved in discontinuing fluoridation, drawing on both public health research and operational considerations.

Why Fluoride Is Added To Public Water: Evidence And Context

Fluoride is not added arbitrarily. Its use in public water supplies is based on decades of public health research showing that, at controlled levels, fluoride significantly reduces dental decay — particularly among children — and helps reduce oral health disparities across income and access levels.

Origins Of Fluoridation

In the early 20th century, researchers observed that communities with naturally occurring fluoride in groundwater had lower rates of cavities. Those observations led to formal studies, culminating in 1945, when Grand Rapids, Michigan became the first U.S. city to intentionally fluoridate its water supply. Long-term follow-up showed substantial reductions in tooth decay, helping establish fluoridation as a national public health strategy.

What Science Says About Fluoride’s Benefits

1. Prevents Dental Cavities
Extensive research shows community water fluoridation reduces tooth decay. Systematic reviews estimate reductions of approximately 25–44% in both children and adults.

2. Works Across Socioeconomic Groups
Fluoridated water benefits residents regardless of access to regular dental care, helping narrow oral health disparities.

3. Cost-Effective Public Health Strategy
Because water fluoridation provides continuous low-level exposure, it is considered one of the most cost-efficient ways to prevent tooth decay — one of the most common chronic diseases.

4. Reinforced by Major Health Organizations
National and international health bodies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Dental Association, continue to endorse community water fluoridation as safe and effective.

How Fluoride Works

Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acids produced by decay-causing bacteria. Regular exposure through drinking water provides continuous protection, rather than relying solely on brushing or dental treatments.

Potential Risks And Ongoing Concerns

The council memo also reflects commonly raised concerns by opponents of fluoridation.

Dental fluorosis, a typically mild cosmetic discoloration of teeth, can occur when young children are exposed to excess fluoride from multiple sources during tooth development.

Some studies have examined associations between very high fluoride exposure and outcomes such as reduced IQ or impacts on nutrient absorption. These studies generally involve fluoride levels far above those used in community water fluoridation and remain controversial and scientifically contested.

Authoritative scientific bodies conducting systematic reviews — including those informing CDC guidance — have not found convincing evidence that fluoride at recommended public-health levels causes major systemic health harms.

Operational Considerations For The City

Kafferlin told council that discontinuing fluoridation could reduce chemical-handling risks and save approximately $5,000 per year.

“It does cost us something to have those chemicals — not just literal dollars, but also the risk and added permitting,” he said. “It is a toxic chemical that adds a level of risk for us handling it.”

Public Works Director Scott Farrell said the water department supports removal due to the hazardous nature of the chemical, noting he was not aware of any naturally occurring fluoride in the city’s water supply.

Councilman Sam Mollica raised questions about natural fluoride levels during discussion.

What Happens Next

Kafferlin emphasized that even if council ultimately decides to discontinue fluoridation, the process would take months.

“This is probably a two- or three-month process before, at six months, we would stop doing it,” he said. “This is not the last chance for public comment.”

Sabol recommended holding a public hearing before any final decision, citing the level of public interest typically associated with fluoride policy.

Council unanimously approved the motion authorizing administration to proceed with drafting permit modifications and conducting any necessary studies.

Key Studies And Reports (With Links)

CDC Scientific Statement on Fluoridation – Comprehensive review of safety and effectiveness
https://www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/about/statement-on-the-evidence-supporting-the-safety-and-effectiveness-of-community-water-fluoridation.html

Systematic Reviews Showing 26–44% Reduction in Caries
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2161831325001851

Historical Fluoridation Evidence – Dental decay decline after fluoridation
https://mequonsmiledesign.com/alternatives-to-removal-of-fluoride-from-municipal-water/

High-Exposure Risk Debate – Dental fluorosis correlations at elevated levels
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/16/12227

Neurological Outcomes Research (Controversial) – Meta-analysis on fluoride and IQ
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39761023/

Details: By DuBoisLIVE Team; Category: DuBois; 04 February 2026

DUBOIS: Grab your butterfly clips, denim-on-denim, and best throwback attitude — a nostalgic night out is coming to downtown DuBois this February.

Ladies’ Evening of 1990s through 2000s Trivia will take place Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 6:PM to 9:PM at The Brady Street Collective, located at 5 South Brady Street, DuBois. The event promises a fun, high-energy trip back to the decade spanning 1990 through 2000, celebrating the music, fashion, food, and pop culture that defined the era.

Trivia and music will be hosted by Play Nice Entertainment, keeping the energy up throughout the evening with throwback hits and themed questions designed to spark memories — and a little friendly competition. Guests will be seated in teams by table, so attendees planning to come with friends are encouraged to purchase tickets together or contact The Brady Street Collective in advance to request group seating.

Food and drinks are a major part of the experience. In a nod to a classic 1990s favorite, LaVita Bella Pizza Truck will be parked outside baking personal pizzas fresh, delivering them hot to guests inside. Looking ahead to a trend that gained popularity after 2000, attendees will also enjoy a dirty soda flight from Tipsy Lane, featuring four flavored options. The flight is included with each ticket, with additional drinks available for purchase.

Costumes are encouraged. Guests who arrive dressed in their favorite 1990–2000s fashion will earn an extra chance at prizes, and trivia winners will also be recognized throughout the night.

Tickets are $40 per person and include entertainment, food, and one four-flavor dirty soda flight. The event is 21+ to consume the beverage flights. All tickets must be purchased through Eventbrite, and all sales are final — no resales or exchanges.

For questions, attendees are asked to contact The Brady Street Collective directly.

🎟 Tickets can be purchased here:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ladies-evening-of-1990-2000s-trivia-tickets-1980612717956

Details: By DuBoisLIVE Team; Category: DuBois; 26 January 2026

DUBOIS: Like it or not, a few things in life are unavoidable.
Winter in western Pennsylvania.
Road construction when you least expect it.
And, of course… death and taxes. If you're reading this, congratulations; you're still alive!

The Internal Revenue Service officially opened the 2026 tax filing season today, Monday, January 26, 2026, and is now accepting electronically filed federal income tax returns for the 2025 tax year.

For residents across Clearfield, Jefferson, Elk, Cameron, Forest, and Clarion counties, that means it’s time to dig out the W-2s, hunt down the 1099s, and start doing what we all do this time of year: hope for accuracy, speed, and maybe — just maybe — a decent refund.

Why Filing Early Matters

The IRS continues to encourage taxpayers to file electronically, and for good reason. E-filed returns are generally processed faster, contain fewer errors, and result in quicker refunds when paired with direct deposit.

Most taxpayers who e-file and choose direct deposit can expect refunds within 21 days, assuming there are no issues with the return.

The standard filing deadline for most taxpayers is April 15, 2026. Those who need more time can request an extension until October 15, 2026, though any taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.

A Case For Going Local

While tax software has its place, there’s still something to be said for working with a trusted local tax preparer — especially in a region as diverse as ours.

A knowledgeable local professional understands:

Pennsylvania and local tax nuances
Self-employment, farming, and small-business situations common in our area
How to maximize accuracy and help avoid costly mistakes

In many cases, that personal attention can make the difference between a smooth filing season and one filled with letters from the IRS that nobody wants to open.

Free Help Is Also Available

For those who qualify, free tax assistance programs remain available, including:

IRS Free File for eligible taxpayers
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) for those age 60 and older

These programs can be especially helpful for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with simpler returns.

If A Refund Is Coming… Think Local First

Refund season can be tempting. One minute you’re checking your bank account, the next you’re wondering how Jeff Bezos already knows what you “accidentally” bought at 2:AM.

Before shipping your hard-earned refund off to Amazon in a single click, consider putting some of that money back into the local economy:

Shop local retailers
Hire local contractors
Support small businesses and restaurants
Catch up on essentials you’ve been putting off

Every dollar spent locally helps keep businesses open, people employed, and communities strong — including right here at home.

Final Reminder

The IRS reminds taxpayers to be cautious of scams. The agency does not initiate contact through email, text messages, or social media asking for personal or financial information.

Taxes may be inevitable — but stress doesn’t have to be.

File early, file accurately, support local when you can… and may your refund be just a little better than expected.

Details: By DuBoisLIVE Team; Category: DuBois; 04 February 2026

DUBOIS: Optimism, investment, and resilience were recurring themes Saturday evening as state Sen. Wayne Langerholc, Jr. and state Rep. Mike Armanini addressed attendees during the Greater DuBois Chamber of Commerce’s annual Business Bash.

Both lawmakers used the event to recognize local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders for their continued commitment to the region, noting that their efforts help sustain and strengthen the community even amid ongoing challenges.

“It’s great to be here with you all to acknowledge these great businesses and great individuals,” Armanini said. “You invest your time and your energy, and that’s what makes this area a better place.”

As part of the evening’s program, Langerholc and Armanini presented state and federal award citations to several local honorees. Scotty’s Donuts was named the 2025 Small Business of the Year, The DuBois Salvation Army received the 2025 Community Cup Award, and Dr. Thomas Petraitis was honored with the DuBois Area Jaycees Distinguished Service Award.

While presenting the awards, Armanini shared personal anecdotes about the connections behind the recognitions, including a story about delivering Scotty’s Donuts to Harrisburg to ensure the citations were completed while he was in legislative session.

“I told them, ‘You’re going to see Scotty’s Donuts,’” Armanini said. “And once you eat one, you’re going to grab a second one real quick.”

In recognizing the DuBois Salvation Army, Armanini referenced collaborative efforts with Langerholc to secure funding for local improvements, including upgrades to the organization’s kitchen, and praised its longstanding service to the community.

Langerholc echoed those sentiments, thanking the award recipients for investing their time and resources locally.

“You are the fabric of this community,” Langerholc said. “No matter the different areas you serve, you make this region a much better place, and you are to be commended.”

Langerholc presented official citations from the Pennsylvania Senate commemorating the evening and honoring each recipient. Armanini noted that additional citations were presented on behalf of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and U. S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, who was unable to attend.

The program also included recognition of the newly established city of DuBois, with local officials invited to the stage to mark the milestone.

Mayor Barry Abbott addressed the audience, reinforcing the city’s forward-looking message.

“The new City of DuBois is open for business,” Abbott said. “We are not looking in the rear-view mirror. We are moving forward, no matter what the naysayers say.” Mayor Abbott may, perhaps, be referring to critics who are frustrated with his administration's unwillingness to answer questions or address how the city will "move forward" in regards to pursuit of being made whole again once the Suplizio scandal is adjudicated (which isn't expected until summer). He may be lumping anyone questioning his ongoing friendship with the accused and unwillingness to commit to seeking restitution for the city as "naysayers". All other speakers respected the occasion and failed to reference any negativity or utter words of division and gaslighting.

Chamber Executive Director Jodi August also addressed attendees, congratulating the honorees and thanking community leaders for their support.

chamberbash2

“I’d like to congratulate our award winners and special recognition to elected officials at the City of DuBois,” August said. “I appreciate each and every one of you for being here.”

Details: By DuBoisLIVE Team; Category: DuBois; 30 January 2026

DUBOIS: A DuBois man is facing multiple felony drug charges following a traffic stop in Centre County that resulted in the seizure of large quantities of suspected fentanyl and crystal methamphetamine, according to the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.

Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that Joseph Alvin, 41, of DuBois, was arrested after investigators concluded he was transporting narcotics intended for distribution in Clearfield County.

Alvin has been charged with two felony counts of possession with intent to deliver along with related offenses. He is currently being held at the Centre County Correctional Facility after bail was set at $405,000.

Traffic Stop Followed Months-Long Investigation

Authorities said the arrest followed a months-long joint investigation conducted by the Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police Troop C Vice Unit.

Investigators determined that Alvin was traveling from the Philadelphia area toward Clearfield County when state troopers conducted a traffic stop in Centre County.

During the stop, law enforcement officers recovered:

337 stamped bags of suspected fentanyl, with an estimated street value of $3,370
Approximately 907 grams of crystal methamphetamine, valued at roughly $27,000
A radio frequency device
Drug-related paraphernalia
Multiple cellular phones

Officials said the quantity of drugs seized indicates an intent to distribute rather than personal use.

Officials Cite Focus On Rural Drug Trafficking

In a statement, Attorney General Sunday said the arrest highlights ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking networks targeting smaller communities.

“This investigation disrupted the movement of significant amounts of dangerous narcotics into Clearfield County,” Sunday said. “Drug traffickers who attempt to profit from rural communities should understand that law enforcement is actively monitoring activity across the Commonwealth.”

Multiple Agencies Involved

In addition to the Attorney General’s Office and State Police Troop C, several agencies assisted in the investigation, including:

Clearfield Regional Police Department
Tyrone Police Department
Altoona Police Department
Additional Pennsylvania State Police units, including a K-9 team

Authorities said the investigation remains active.

Case Moving Forward

The case will be prosecuted by the Centre County District Attorney’s Office.

As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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