PFBC, partners announce ‘Operation Dry Water’

HARRISBURG — Boaters across Pennsylvania have been given a ‘heads up’ about the consequences they might face if they choose to go boating while intoxicated this Fourth of July weekend. In Philadelphia on June 26, the Fish and Boat Commission announced “Operation Dry Water” from July 3 through July 5, where officers statewide will be out in force to look for drunk boaters and other Boating Under the Influence violations. BUI is the same as DUI in Pennsylvania, and it is illegal to operate any watercraft, powered or unpowered, with a blood-alcohol concentration of .08% or higher. Penalties are the same, too, and BUI offenders can lose boating privileges, face thousands of dollars in fines, or be sentenced to jail time.

In 2025, the PFBC arrested 27 individuals for BUI, including 9 arrests made during the Operation Dry Water campaign.

Additional safe boating messages include always wearing a life jacket, having a float plan to let someone know where you’ll be boating, and watching the weather forecast for summer storms.

Rededication of Union County ‘Purple Heart Monument’ Aug. 7

MIFFLINBURG — All Purple Heart recipients, veterans and veteran supporters are invited to a rededication of the Union County “Purple Heart Monument” to honor all from the area from all service branches and all wars who have received the award. The ceremony will be at noon on National Purple Heart Day, Aug. 7, 2026, at the WWII Memorial area of Borough Community Park, North 5th St., Mifflinburg.

The event is sponsored by the George H. Ramer, MOH, Chapter 656 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

All guests will be invited to have refreshments if you wish to attend. RSVP is required. Respond to Bob Lauver (570) 847-6177 via voice, voice mail or text by Aug. 1 with the number of attendees.

Following the ceremony, the Purple Heart chapter will be hosting its annual picnic.