Tionesta, Pa.: The Army Corps of Engineers at Tionesta Lake and Volunteers for the Ruffed Grouse Society plan the renewal of alder for wildlife this March. Woodcock, ruffed grouse, warblers, rabbits, mice, voles, bobcats, and fox all use the habitat created by an alder thicket. As alder grows and gets too old, it starts to ‘lay down’ and roots will decay. But, a simple and proven wildlife habitat management technique of stump cutting will remove the older stems and put abundant sunlight back on the ground and cut stump, and cause the alder to put up abundant new growth. This new growth will provide habitat for many birds and small mammals over the next thirty years after the stump cutting.
Belmont, NY – Help combat food insecurity in Allegany County by joining us in partnering with Ardent Solutions to collect non-perishable food donations for local food pantries. Ardent Solutions will take part in the annual Souper Bowl Day of Caring by collecting donated items for local food pantries. An Access Allegany bus will be parked outside Tops Friendly Market in Wellsville on Saturday, February 7, where residents will have the opportunity to drop off donations throughout the day. Donation boxes have been placed at additional locations throughout the County including:
Allegany County Courthouse
Allegany County Office Building
Allegany County Office for the Aging
Andover Central School
Ardent Solutions
Community Bank (Wellsville)
First Citizens Bank (Wellsville)
Genesee Valley Central School
Runnings (Wellsville)
The Arena (Wellsville)
The Shop on Main (Wellsville)
Save-A-Lot (Wellsville) Donations help restock shelves of local food pantries and provide much needed support for our neighbors in need. For more information about the Souper Bowl Day of Caring, please contact Becky Nelson at Ardent Solutions at (585)808-7036.
The boil order has been lifted for the Village of Fredonia and their water customers. The conservation order remains in effect until further notice. The leaks have been fixed and the disinfection system has been repaired. However, the tank remains mostly empty. To conserve water, turn off the faucet while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes. Only run the dishwasher or clothes washer when full. Do not allow faucets to run to keep pipes from freezing. For questions call the Village at (716) 679-2307 and Chautauqua County Health Department permitted facilities can call the Health Department directly at (716) 753-4481.
RIDGWAY, PA: The North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission is launching the update of its 2055 Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). This plan will guide transportation decision-making for North Central rural communities over the coming decades, shaping the future of mobility, safety, and economic opportunities across the six-county region of Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean and Potter.
Long-range transportation planning plays a vital role in ensuring that residents, businesses, and visitors across the North Central Pennsylvania region have safe, reliable, and efficient ways to travel – whether by automobile, transit, bicycle, foot, or other modes. The LRTP identifies transportation needs, priorities, goals, and strategies for the next 20 years and beyond, taking into account evolving trends, changing demographics, and emerging technologies that affect how people and goods move throughout the region.
Betty Jean Soble, 96, a lifelong resident of Bradford, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Olean General Hospital.
Born February 26, 1929, in Bradford, she was the daughter of the late Claude R. Poling and Dorothy M. (Lamberson) Poling Good. She graduated from Bradford High School in 1947.
On September 11, 1948, in Bradford, she married the love of her life, Dale C. Soble, who preceded her in death on August 31, 2015. Together they built a warm, lively home centered on what mattered most to Betty was her family. Raising five children was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into creating a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Her pride only grew as her family expanded, and she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Betty worked at Kendall Refining Company, the YMCA, and later served as a Secretary for the District Justice Office in Bradford until her retirement. After retiring, she and Dale enjoyed 22 wonderful years in Winter Haven, FL.
This week, we are proud to recognize Jadin Hardt, a senior from the Northern Potter School District, as Seneca Highlands CTC’s student of the week. Jaden is an outstanding student who truly makes our Welding Technologies shop a better place. He is helpful, considerate, and always willing to lend a hand to others. Whether a classmate needs help with an assignment or a teacher needs assistance, he is quick to step in with a positive attitude and a kind smile.
He consistently shows respect to everyone around him and sets a great example through his actions. His willingness to help others and his thoughtful nature do not go unnoticed. We are grateful to have such a caring and dependable student in our school community.
Congratulations Jadin! Keep up the great work, and thank you for being such a positive role model.
Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) issued the following statement in response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed $53.26 billion state budget proposal outlined Tuesday before a joint session of the General Assembly:
“Once again, the governor has proposed spending more than we have. After draining the surplus to cover the current year’s budget, he is now seeking to use more than half of our state’s emergency savings by taking $4.58 billion from the Rainy Day Fund to help pay for his plan. He is also relying on legalizing recreational marijuana and taxing skill games to make his budget balance.
“These proposals have been non-starters in the General Assembly, and the Rainy Day Fund will quickly run dry at this rate of spending. It’s time for a different approach.
Gordon G. Tucker, 75, of Turtlepoint, passed away on Sunday, February1, 2026, in UPMC Williamsport, after a long illness.
Family and friends may gather from 12 noon to 1pm on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the Riverside United Methodist Church, River Street, Roulette, where funeral services will follow at 1pm with the Rev. Greg Rapp, pastor of Park United Methodist Church, Coudersport and Pastor Jim Cannistraci, of Riverside United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Port Allegany.
Gordon’s wife entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Gordon, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Alfred F. “Buddy” Lamb, 85, a resident of Elk Haven Nursing Home, passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026 following a brief illness.
He was born on August 19, 1940 in Austin, PA, a son of the late Alfred and Gladys Hoak Lamb.
Buddy worked for several years at Elcam in St. Marys. He was a member of the PFL, CMF, and the K of C. Coming from a musically inclined family, Buddy loved listening to music and attending square dances with the Bells of St. Marys Square Dance Club. He also enjoyed spending time at the St. Marys Senior Center and with the Spark Club, where he met and made many friends. Buddy loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He loved nothing more than spending time at hunting camp with family. As an avid fisherman, Buddy always looked forward to stocking trout in the area with the Fish and Boat Commission.
Buddy is survived by his sister-in-law; Lesa Lamb of Kersey, and by two nieces, two great-nieces, and one great-great niece.
In addition to his parents, Buddy was preceded in death by his brother; George Lamb, in 2023, and by a nephew; Jeff Lamb in 2015.
A Memorial Service for Alfred F. “Buddy” Lamb will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home with Rev. Robert Zilhaver, Pastor of St. Marys Methodist Church, officiating.
Burial will follow in Parklawn Memorial Gardens.
Family and friends will be received at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 from 12:00 PM until the time of the service.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Elk Haven Nursing Home Activities Fund.
Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com
Travis S. “Shovelhead” Wackwitz, 42, of Shinglehouse, passed way unexpectedly at the home of his parents in Shinglehouse, PA, on Saturday, January 31, 2026, after suffering an apparent heart attack.
Born on Monday, December 19, 1983, in Olean, NY, he was a son of Melvin T. Wackwitz, Sr. and Lydia V. Stevens Carpenter.
Travis was a graduate of Bradford High School. He was employed by George Jones as a logger in Shinglehouse. He was a concrete specialist having installed but also constructed wave pools in New Jersey, Pennsylvania (including Waldameer Park in Erie, PA), and Darien Lake in New York. He also built log homes and was an electrician. He was a talented person.
His many hobbies and interests included hunting, fishing, kayaking, riding his Harley, snowmobiling and riding his side by side. He loved his dog, Kara.
Left to cherish his memory are his father, Melvin T. “Todd” Wackwitz, Sr. of Bradford; his mother, Lydia V. (Harold) Carpenter of Shinglehouse; his longtime girlfriend, Tracy L. Bliss of Shinglehouse; his siblings, Shambra L., Melvin T., Jr., Dustin L., Harold M. Jr., Brittany L., Michael T., Steven L., Sharon A., Selena L., and Samantha L.; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews; and so many friends he called family.
Travis was predeceased by a sister; a brother; his paternal and maternal grandparents; and his stepmother, Angie B. Wackwitz.
Family and friends may gather from 5pm to 8pm on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, PA, where funeral services will follow at 8pm with Pastor Hank St. Amour of Hebron Union Church, Coudersport, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Travis’ name may be made to the Oswayo Valley Rod and Gun Club, PO Box 186, Shinglehouse, PA 16748 or to Shinglehouse American Legion Post 530, 1365 SR 44S, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.
Travis’ family has entrusted his care and funeral arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Travis, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Congratulations to Aliza Penick, a senior from Port Allegany School District, on being named Student of the Week in the Culinary Arts Department at Seneca Highlands Career and Technical Center.
Aliza consistently demonstrates strong culinary discipline and professionalism. She is always in the right place at the right time, willingly takes on any task assigned, and leads by example by setting high standards for herself and others. Her leadership and reliability make her a valued member of the program.
Outside of the culinary classroom, Aliza competes in long jump and serves as President of the Yearbook Organization at her home school, further reflecting her commitment, leadership, and dedication.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial visitation for Mr. Lester C. Neal, 87, of Myrtle, from 11am to 12 noon on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, where a celebration of Lester’s life will follow at 12 noon with Ronald Fitch, Elder of Central Hinsdale Jehovah Witnesses, officiating. Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park, Lafayette.
Lester passed away on January 22, 2026.
Lester’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
Verna L. MONROE, 84, passed from this world on January 31, 2026, peacefully with daughters by her side, to go home to her husband, son, mom, dad, and her sisters. She had a huge heart and loved her family.
Verna is survived by her two sons, two daughters and their families, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, stepchildren, and friends. As per Verna’s wishes, there will be no services.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
The City of Bradford Police Department reports the arrest of Kenneth Bell following incidents involving active warrants, flight from police, and drug-related offenses. On November 10, 2025, at approximately 10:39 p.m., officers encountered Bell as a passenger in a vehicle operated by Raymond Kelley at the Country Fair gas station on West Washington Street.
Kelley, who was known to be DUI-suspended, admitted to driving and identified Bell, who had an active warrant issued by PSP Lewis Run. Bell was taken into custody. A search revealed a glass smoking pipe with burnt residue and approximately eight grams of suspected crack cocaine, along with packaging materials, a digital scale, Suboxone strips, THC vape cartridges, and other paraphernalia inside Bell’s backpack.
A silicone container inside the vehicle also contained suspected crack cocaine, which field-tested positive. The vehicle was searched after a search warrant was obtained. Bell was remanded to jail this date on the arrest warrant. Bell later made bail and was released.
On January 25, 2026, at approximately 11:05 a.m., officers observed Bell outside 9 Kiwanis Court and recognized he had an active warrant issued by the City of Bradford Police Department in relation to the prior offense on November 10th, 2025. When ordered to stop, Bell fled on foot.
After a brief pursuit through deep snow Patrolman T. Blair with the assistance of Patrolman C. Keane, safely took Bell into custody without further incident. Police also noted Bell had previously fled officers on January 16, 2026, by jumping from a window at 6 Kiwanis Court while officers attempted to arrest him on the same warrant.
All charges are pending through the appropriate judicial process. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Bell was arraigned before Judge Luther on the flight-related charges and was remanded to the McKean County Jail on $50,000 bail. He was also arraigned before Judge Engman on the drug-related charges and remanded to the McKean County Jail on an additional $50,000 bail.
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA. Mr. Erich Zaun, Principal, has announced the following students, grades six through twelve, have been named to the Honor Roll for the second nine-week grading period at the Oswayo Valley Jr./Sr. High School. Students named to the High Honor Roll have maintained an average of 93% or above, while those on the Honor Roll have averaged 87% or above.
HIGH HONOR ROLL
GRADE 12: Lucas Dickerson, Luke Karr, Ridge Mesler, Trevor Miller, Soi Sang Nguyen, Rachel Rathbun, Mia Shaffer, Wynter Turek
Charles L. “Chuck” Claycomb, 67, of Coryville, PA, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday (February 1, 2026).
He was born November 25, 1958 in Johnstown, PA, the son of Roy and Twila (Hudson) Claycomb. On March 29, 1997, in the Coryville Church of Faith, he married Melissa S. Bhe, who survives.
Chuck was a graduate of Smethport Area High School. He owned and operated Claycomb Autobody in Coryville for many years, up until his passing.
He was a former EMT for the Smethport Ambulance Association. Chuck enjoyed spending time with his family and going fishing, especially with his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Melissa, he is survived by:
His mother: Twila Claycomb of Smethport
Three sons: Christopher P. (Stacy) Claycomb of Duke Center, PA, Scott M. (Stacey Strait) Ayers, along with Ashley McClellan, and Joshua A. (Amber Cline) Ayers, both of Coryville
Grandchildren: Ethan and Logan Claycomb; Brooke, Alyssa, Summer, Harper, Peyton, Cannon and Brantlee Ayers; Caydence Gilbert; Ethan and Kaylee Horn; Christian and Oakley Cline; Braelyn and Levi Lamberton
One great grandson: Callum Steeples
One sister: Gloria Wilson of Eldred
Two brothers: Earl (Angie) Claycomb in West Virginia and Ron (Kara) Claycomb of Smethport
And several nieces and nephews
In addition to his father, Chuck was preceded in death by two nephews: Stephen Claycomb and Andrew Wilson.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport. A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at a later date and time to be announced.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the family at this time to start an Autobody Scholarship in Chuck’s name at 1527 Rt. 446, Eldred, PA 16731 or to your local Ambulance Service or Fire Department. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Travis S. “Shovelhead” Wackwitz, 42, of Shinglehouse, passed way unexpectedly at the home of his parents in Shinglehouse, PA, on Saturday, January 31, 2026, after suffering an apparent heart attack.
Family and friends may gather from 5pm to 8pm on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, PA, where funeral services will follow at 8pm.
A complete obituary will follow.
Travis’ family has entrusted his care and funeral arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Travis, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Dolores “Dot” D. Manno, 97, of Ridgway, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, at Pinecrest Manor Nursing Home.
She was born on August 19, 1928, in Altoona, the daughter of the late Thomas and Alice Reilly Zimmerman.
On May 21, 1949, at St. Leos Church, she married the late Armond E. Manno, who preceded her in death on March 15, 2005.
A member of St. Leo’s Church, Dot found great joy in her faith and the community that surrounded her. She cherished the friendships she nurtured at the Ridgway Senior Center, where she enjoyed playing cards and sharing laughter with her friends. Her remarkable baking skills were known throughout the neighborhood; she loved baking for those around her, bringing warmth and delicious treats to many friends and neighbors.
She is survived by 3 children: John Manno and his wife Carol of Houma, LA, Joseph Manno and his wife Cindy of Suffolk, VA, and Jane Marroni of Pittsburgh, PA, 6 grandchildren; Megan, Jack, Dean, Kelly, Lauren, and Kirsten, and 2 great grandchild, Owen and Aanya. She is also survived by a sister, Alice Piccirillo of Ridgway, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Peggy Zimmerman and a brother, Tom Zimmerman.
Funeral Services for Dolores D. Manno are being held privately by the family.
Burial will follow at St. Leos Cemetery.
Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the services and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Gisela M. “Pat” Sterner, 90, of longtime resident of both Cheektowaga,NY, and Austin, PA, passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Elderwood of Williamsville.
Pat was born on February 10, 1935, in Worms, Germany, the daughter of the late Johannes and Anna (Herrmann) Sackreuther. She married George Sterner on August 14, 1956, and celebrated over 57 years of marriage until his passing on January 12, 2014 Pat was an avid reader, enjoyed knitting, and was a loving mother and wife.
Pat is survived by daughters: Deborah Sterner of Hamburg, NY; Kimberly (Mark) Sullivan of Buffalo, NY; a daughter-in-law, Judy Sterner of Tonawanda, NY; 7 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and one on the way.
In addition to her husband and parents, Pat was preceded in death by sons: Frank Sterner, Scott Sterner, and a brother, Hans Sackreuther.
At Pat’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services. A private burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery, Austin. The family has entrusted her arrangements to the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East St., Coudersport. To share a memory or condolence with the family, please visit www.thomasfickinger.com.
Considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)? Penn College has scheduled an Information Session for its upcoming LPN course beginning in April. When you enroll in the full-time Practical Nursing program, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling career in just one year. With skilled faculty, hands-on learning labs, 1,536 hours of instruction, and access to Penn College student services, you’ll be confident and ready to take the Practical Nursing licensing exam (NCLEX-PN), and if you want to advance your career, we have pathways to get you there.
To learn more, attend the Information Sessions scheduled for Thursdays, February 12th and March 12th, at 6:30 p.m. at Penn College/Wellsboro, 22 Walnut Street, or live via Zoom at the Education Council’s office at 5 Water Street. Registration is required. For more information or to register for an Information Session, call Wendy Joachim at (570) 724-7703.
The Family of Mr. Larry J. Smith wishes to thank their family, friends, and community for the comfort their memorial gifts and kind words have given our loved ones during this difficult time.
Chili & Chowder with a Chance for Chocolate is back with sweet and savory goodies on Saturday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. during the Ice and Spice Winter Weekend in Wellsboro, Pa. Proceeds benefit Second Chance Animal Sanctuaries and go directly to help Tioga County animals in need.
Several local businesses (15 last year; this year’s TBA), will concoct and serve up chili and/or chowder. With the purchase of a tasting passport for $10, participants can visit each business to sample the creations, and enter to win a different chocolate-themed gift basket at each site. The passport comes with a map, and signs outside will mark each site, all downtown within walking distance. When done tasting, participants can vote for their top three favorite dishes, with those chefs being recognized at the end of the event.
