UPMC Brings Advanced Neurosurgical Technology Closer to Home for North Central Pa. Patients
Williamsport, Pa., August 18, 2026 – Patients across north central Pennsylvania now have local access to advanced surgical navigation technology that helps neurosurgeons plan and perform complex brain and spine procedures with greater precision. The investment expands the region’s neurological care capabilities and allows more patients to receive sophisticated treatment in the area.
“Patients and families deserve access to advanced neurological care in their communities,” said Tom Hoy, executive administrator, Musculoskeletal, Neuroscience, and Rehabilitation departments, UPMC in North Central Pa. “By bringing this technology to our region, we are expanding local treatment options and helping more people receive highly specialized care within the communities where they live and work.”
Take a Chance on Fun! Library’s Basket Raffle Offers 20 Exciting Prizes
EMPORIUM – Get ready to pick your favorites and take a chance! The Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library is kicking off its Basket Raffle during its first-ever Trivia Night on Thursday, August 20, 2026, but you don’t have to be a Trivia Night participant to play!
With 20 themed baskets up for grabs, there’s something for just about everyone, including The Big Bang Theory, Harry Potter, Pasta Lovers, Puppy Pals, Game Night, Cozy Reading, and more!
Chances are just $1 each and can be purchased at the library, located at 27 W. 4th Street in Emporium, through August 31. Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card with tap-to-pay. Winners will be drawn on September 1.
Basket photos will be revealed on the library’s social media during Trivia Night, so be sure to keep an eye out and start planning which baskets you’ll want to take a chance on!
The library will also livestream a round of Trivia on their Facebook Page so others can get a glimpse at the event from home.
This fundraiser is sponsored by the Friends of the Cameron County Public Library. Small games of chance license number 4-M.
One dollar. Twenty baskets. Trivia fun. Plenty of chances to win!
Joseph A. Wedge, 66, of Bradford
Joseph A. Wedge, 66, of 9 Bayberry Court, Bradford, passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at his residence.
Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life for Joe and his brother Scott on Saturday August 22, 2026, from 1 pm to 3 pm at the Limestone Community Center. Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed at wwwhollenbeckcahill.com
Madeline Melissa “Maddy” Steuben, 89, Formerly of Bradford
Madeline Melissa “Maddy” Steuben, 89, formerly of 10 Morianna Ave., passed away Saturday, August 15, 2026, at The Pavilion at BRMC, where she had been a resident for over 10 years.
Melissa was born in Bradford on June 26, 1937. She was one of two daughters born to Richard H. and Bernice (Buchanan) Steuben. She was a 1954 graduate of Bradford High School
Maddy was employed for many years as a housekeeper at Bradford Hospital and later Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Melissa is survived by one nephew, Scott (Jennifer Oxley) Steuben, of Bradford, four grand nieces, Tayler (Meghan) Chase, of Jamestown, NY, Alexis Steuben, Kyla Pessia, and Amalia Hulings, all of Bradford, and two great grand nephews, Sullivan and Calum.
Maddy was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Dawne L. Steuben who preceded her in death on December 14, 2019.
Friends are invited to attend graveside services on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 1:00 pm with Rev. Rob Klouw, Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, officiating. Burial will be in Willow Dale Cemetery
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the SPCA in Bradford or the Empire Animal Rescue Society (EARS) in Salamanca, NY, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
COUDERSPORT ROTARY SUPPORTS WHEELCHAIR INITIATIVE IN TANZANIA
The Coudersport Rotary Club continues to make a meaningful impact beyond its local community through its ongoing support of a wheelchair initiative in Tanzania. Rotarian Ronnie Shenkein, together with the Coudersport Rotary Club, recently purchased additional locally manufactured wheelchairs for individuals with physical disabilities living in communities surrounding Serengeti National Park.
The project is a partnership between Environmental Education and Conservation Global (EECG), a nonprofit organization, and Peace for Conservation, with the goal of providing 100 wheelchairs to people in need. The initiative not only improves mobility and independence but also strengthens educational opportunities and wildlife conservation efforts throughout the region.
The Coudersport Rotary Club’s connection to EECG is through Ed McCrea, President and CEO of Environmental Education and Conservation Global, whose leadership and commitment to conservation and humanitarian efforts have helped the club become an active supporter of this meaningful international project.
Many of the wheelchairs are hand-pedaled and are built locally, making them both affordable and easy to repair within the community. Supporting local manufacturing also contributes to the area’s economy while ensuring long-term sustainability for wheelchair users.
The Coudersport Rotary Club is proud to be part of this life-changing initiative and is committed to supporting the project each year. By helping provide mobility to those with disabilities while encouraging conservation and education, the club is living Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self” and making a lasting difference in communities around the world.
Dixie Lee McGavisk “Mema” of Smethport, PA
Smethport – Dixie Lee McGavisk “Mema” of Smethport, PA, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 14, 2026. She was born September 24, 1941, in Kane, PA to the late Robert Hewitt and Wilma Stickles Chesnut. Dixie was an avid member of the Hilltop Baptist Church.
She loved and cherished her family more than anything, second only to God.
The “Pink Lady”, as she was very well known, also treasured her personal possessions in her favorite color pink. Such as pink clothing, furniture, and appliances, to name a few. You may have even seen Mema cruising around in her pink car!
Dixie spent her working career at Zippo Manufacturing as a beautician, owned and operated a day care, EMT, medical secretary, and as a home health aid. She also donated her time to the church as a Sunday school teacher and actively volunteered, making sure parishioners’ birthdays and anniversaries were not forgotten.
Dixie is survived by her three daughters, Brenda Young of Florence, SC, Julie McGavisk of Eldred, Kathy McGavisk Carpenter of Smethport; and one son. John Jay McGavisk of Bradford. Seven grandchildren, Brandon, Tiffany, Justin, Heather, Kody, Ryanna, and Kylar. Thirteen great-grandchildren, Breawna, Jordan, Brock, Bailey, Koda, Maggie, Everett, Arya, Jonahs, Jax, Loerali, Isaiah, and Kendall. Two sisters, Bonnie Conklin of Clarendon and Judie Kahle of Cuba, NY
Dixie was preceded in death by her parents, a grandson, Kruze Carpenter, a sister, Karla Hewitt, and three stepbrothers, Ted, Rick, and Larry Chesnut.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, from noon-1PM at Hilltop Baptist Church, Gifford, where funeral services will begin at 1PM with the Rev. Max Simms, pastor, officiating. Lunch will be served after services.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hilltop Baptist Church, Gifford. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.
PITT-BRADFORD PLANS SUNDAY EVENING FIREWORKS
BRADFORD, Pa. — The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford will welcome its Class of 2030 and celebrate opening convocation with fireworks at dusk Sunday, Aug. 23.
The fireworks will be launched from the west end of campus near the Harriett B. Wick Chapel between 8:30 and 9 p.m. The display will last for 15 minutes.
The rain date is Monday, Aug. 24, 2026.
HARVEYS LAKE ACCESS IN LUZERNE COUNTY TO BE CLOSED TEMPORARILY FOR IMPROVEMENTS
HARRISBURG, Pa. (August 17) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) announced today that the Harveys Lake Access, which provides fishing and boating access to Harveys Lake in Luzerne County, will be temporarily closed from August 24-25, 2026.
During this time, improvements will be made to the parking area.
The PFBC thanks the public for their patience and understanding as these improvements are completed.
INAUGURAL PRESTON WEINBERG MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP TO BE AWARDED TO PITT-BRADFORD TRIO STUDENT
BRADFORD, Pa. — Family and friends of Preston Weinberg have endowed a scholarship in his memory at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford that will be awarded for the first time this fall.
Weinberg had just turned 25 on Dec. 30, 2024, during a visit to his family in Bradford. Less than two weeks later, he died of an acute asthma attack at his home in Los Angeles, as the Palisades fire burned nearby in January 2025.
“I think when someone dies young and suddenly, family and friends need a way to express their caring,” said Rick Weinberg, Preston’s father.
PennDOT Potter County Maintenance Work Schedule for the Week of August 17
Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced the following schedule of maintenance activities in Potter County the week of August 17. PennDOT performs year-round maintenance in its mission to provide a safe, efficient transportation system, and the scope of work in Potter County for the coming week is as follows:
Patching
PennDOT McKean County Maintenance Work Schedule for the Week of August 17
Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced the following schedule of maintenance activities in McKean County the week of August 17. PennDOT performs year-round maintenance in its mission to provide a safe, efficient transportation system, and the scope of work in McKean County for the coming week is as follows:
Patching
- Route 6 between Irons Hollow Road in Keating Township and Route 155 in Port Allegany Borough. Monday, August 17, through Friday, August 21. Flaggers in the roadway will provide traffic control during daylight hours and may deploy a pilot vehicle. When encountering a pilot vehicle with a “Pilot Car Follow Me” sign mounted on the rear and a revolving yellow light, drivers must remain behind it until it has left the roadway. Do not pass.
Measles Information from PA Commonwealth
The following information was taken directly from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Website, link below:
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/health/diseases-conditions/infectious-disease/measles
Elk County Coroner Michelle A. Muccio Coroner’s Release Regarding a Death in Johnsonburg, Elk County.
Elk County Coroner Michelle A. Muccio is releasing the following information in regards to a death that occurred on Sunday, August 16, 2026 in Johnsonburg, Elk County.
Dominic Petruzzi, 43, of Coudersport, PA, was found deceased near a boat launch on the Ridgway-Johnsonburg Road in Johnsonburg, PA. Mr. Petruzzi was pronounced dead at the scene by Elk County Coroner Michelle Muccio-Krise at 9:10 AM.
Mr. Petruzzi was planning to go fishing when he suffered a seizure and was found in a shallow part of the river. This death has been ruled a freshwater drowning precipitated by a seizure. This death has been ruled accidental, and there are no suspicious circumstances.
In addition to the Elk County Coroner’s Office, assisting at the scene was Johnsonburg Police Dept., St. Marys Ambulance, and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.
Donna Mae Sturdevant, 93 of Coudersport
Donna Mae Sturdevant, 93, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother and aunt entered eternal life, joining her loving husband of 71 years on Saturday August 15, 2026. Donna’s Lord and Savior took her home while her granddaughter, Teagen Schroeder read her Bible verses.
Born April 3,1933, in Coudersport. She was the loving daughter of Lloyd R. and Elizabeth (Haskins) Baker. On May 17, 1952, she married the love of her life, Gary Allen Sturdevant at the Sweden Valley Methodist parsonage. Gary predeceased her on June 7, 2023. They were blessed with four wonderful children who brought them many years of joy.
Donna was famously known for her cookies. She enjoyed making them for every holiday and event for family and friends. Donna loved to cook and provide for anyone who would stop by, took pride in being a hostess and made everyone feel welcome. She faithfully read the “Daily Bread” and her Bible each day. She loved the Lord with all her heart and would consistently pray for her family, friends and even strangers. She was a true Angel on Earth, and her greatest desire was to make sure her family knew the Lord and would someday be reunited in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Donna worked during her teenage years at the Dubois Five & Dime Store and the Coudersport Ice Mine. Donna then enjoyed a career of selling Avon and was welcomed into many homes throughout the community. Not only was she a cook, a baker and a marketer, she also helped harvest potatoes at Leet Brothers Farm. In her later years, she was a dedicated housekeeper for many families in the community, took pride in her work and built a loving relationship with all those she worked for. Above all, she was the Matriarch of her family. Donna and Gary loved and encouraged not only their children, but their friends and all who crossed their paths.
Along with her husband and parents, Donna was predeceased by her brothers and their wives, Robert (Ellen) and John (Carlene) Baker, her mother-in-law, Louise Lawton, her brothers-in-law, Roy and Jerry Lawton, and her sister-in-law, Diane Lawton.
Donna is survived by her four children, Terry (Linda) Sturdevant, Steve (Valarie) Sturdevant, JoElla (Alan) Kinney, and Kathy (Jeffrey) Schroeder. She was blessed with many grandchildren, Krista (Rodney) Doran, Kimberly (John) Dailey, Andrew Kinney, Elizabeth (Ben) Pevornik, Tyler (Brianna) Schroeder, Troy (Teagen) Schroeder, her special niece, Ashley Baker and many other nieces and nephews who meant the world to her.
Donna loved her family and had the pleasure of adoring her great and great-great grandchildren, Gabrielle (Brock) Clay, Rodney Doran Jr, Emilee, Jacob, Coleman and Rubea Dailey, Sawyer Pevornik, Ella and Emilia Schroeder, Duke Amos and Tate Clay and Rhett Schroeder (Due Sept. 2026)
Funeral services for Donna will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at her
lifelong church, North Eulalia Baptist Church, located at 683 SR 49, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Viewing Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Funeral Service: 12:00 PM (Noon), officiated by Pastor Michael Reeves
Interment: Donna will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband at the Hollenbeck
Cemetery in Hebron Township, Coudersport, PA.
In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to North Eulalia Baptist Church, at the
afore said address. Donna has entrusted her care to her loving friends, Kevin & Patty
Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil Howard funeral home, Shinglehouse, PA. To
express condolences, light a candle, or to share a fond memory of Donna, please visit
www.virgilhowardfuneralhome.com or visit their Facebook page.
Joe L. AYERS, 81, of Coudersport, PA
Joe L. AYERS, 81, of Coudersport, PA, died Thursday, August 6, 2026 in his home.
Born March 10, 1945, in Coudersport, he was the son of Clyde and Fern Buchanan Ayers. A graduate of Coudersport High School, he served honorably with the U.S. Army from 1964 – 1965. He worked on the family farm and was employed by Leete Lumber, Pierce Glass, Ayers Collection Service, and PennDOT, retiring at age 62 in 2007. He also served as a Summit Township Supervisor.
As a young couple raising their own six children, Joe and Gail always made room for extra kids, dogs, and cats to live at Frosty Hollow, but they never dreamed that someday that aspect of their lives would turn into a business. However, in 1992, it did just that. After having remodeled a large barn where they raised their four sons and two daughters, Joe and Gail decided to add some extra bedrooms and bathrooms and began welcoming guests to Frosty Hollow Bed & Breakfast. A short time later they rehabilitated the farmhouse where Joe grew up and the cottage where his grandparents had lived. Every member of the family has had a hand in some portion in the making of a very special property. Making guests feel like they have come to visit old friends has been the goal of the Ayers family for many years.
Many of the guests over the past 34 years of business have seen the results of the working hands of the man, Joe, aka Mr. Joe, aka Pa, behind the many projects seen in Gail’s “mind’s eye!” He also had his hands in the kitchen as well! He has been an inspiration to his family, a steady and reliable spirit sharing his love for his wife, family, and business unconditionally!
Joe was a man who knew how to pray. With a list of people who were in need of prayer in his pocket, he rose at 4:00 am every day and petitioned God on their behalf. When he heard of anyone with trouble or sickness, he added that name to the list. He was always a faithful servant to the call.
Surviving besides his wife, Gail, are: six children, Tracy Ayers of Coudersport, Joseph Daniel (Donell) Ayers of Coudersport, Cindy L. (Bruce) Heiser of Sunbury, Matthew (Betsy) Ayers of Coudersport, Aaron (Annetta) Ayers of Spring Mills, and Joshua (Abby) Ayers of Coudersport; 11 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by eight siblings.
A gathering to celebrate Joe’s life will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Frosty Hollow from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Kids Learning Center/PreK-Counts – Teacher/Lead Teacher Needed
Kids Learning Center/Pre-K Counts
226 Chestnut St., Kane, Pa. 16735 Fax: 814-561-1281 Phone: 814-561-1080
Kidslearningcenter2016@gmail.com
Job post summary
Pay: From $46,000.00 per year
Job description:
Job Summary
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Pre-K Counts Teacher/Lead Teacher to inspire young learners in a vibrant early childhood education environment. In this role, you will lead classroom activities, develop engaging curricula, and foster a nurturing space where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Your enthusiasm and expertise will help lay a strong foundation for future learning success, ensuring each child receives personalized attention and support. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on early childhood development while working within a collaborative team committed to excellence in preschool education.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with early childhood education standards, including literacy, math, physical education, and social skills.
- Foster a positive classroom atmosphere through effective classroom management and behavior management strategies that promote respect, cooperation, and curiosity.
- Utilize curriculum development techniques to tailor activities for diverse learners, including children with special education needs or requiring early intervention services.
- Engage children in hands-on learning experiences that support childhood development milestones and promote active exploration.
- Maintain detailed documentation of each child’s progress, including assessments related to standardized testing and individualized learning plans.
- Collaborate with families, specialists, and colleagues to support children’s welfare, growth, and educational goals.
- Ensure a safe, clean, and welcoming environment that adheres to childcare regulations and always promotes child welfare.
Experience
- Prior classroom experience working with preschool-aged children in early childhood education settings or daycare environments.
- Demonstrated knowledge of curriculum development principles across subjects such as literacy education, math, physical education, and Montessori methods.
- Experience working with children requiring special education or early intervention services is highly desirable.
- Strong understanding of childhood development stages and effective classroom management techniques.
- Proven ability to communicate clearly with children, parents, and team members to foster a collaborative educational environment.
- Familiarity with standardized testing procedures relevant to preschool assessments is advantageous.
- Previous experience in private school or daycare settings that emphasize early childhood education practices is preferred. Join us as we nurture the next generation of learners by creating engaging lessons and fostering an environment where every child can succeed!
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Tuition reimbursement
License/Certification:
- Teaching Certification in ECE (BS/BA) (Required)
Work Location: In person
Rebecca J. Mingo, 89, of Port Allegany
Port Allegany – Rebecca J. Mingo, 89, of Port Allegany, passed away Friday (August 14, 2026) at UPMC-Cole, Coudersport.
She was born July 18, 1937 in Port Allegany, the daughter of Herman Tarbox and Katherine (Hults) Minard.
Rebecca was a graduate of Port Allegany High School Class of 1955. She attended Olean Business Institute and received an Associate Degree in Business.
She was a secretary for shipping and receiving at the former Pittsburgh Corning Corporation of Port Allegany, PA before retiring.
Rebecca attended the Port Allegany United Methodist Church, where she was treasurer of the memorial fund. She was a member of PWP (Parents Without Partners) and received the Single Parent of the Year Award in 1980. She was a voracious reader and supporter of the S.W. Smith Library in Port Allegany. She also loved to attend “Concerts on the Square” in Port Allegany and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan.
She is survived by:
One daughter: Linda (Richard) Benson of Turtlepoint, PA
One son: Roger Ludwig of Port Allegany, PA
Grandchildren: Christopher Benson and Brian (Brandi) Benson, both of Turtlepoint, Melissa Hamilton of Emporium, Michelle (Eric) Reed of West Virginia, Francis (Nicole) Ludwig, III of Kingston, GA, Sophia (Jarrod Miller) Ludwig of St.Marys, GA
Twelve Great Grandchildren
two sister-in-laws: Jacqueline M. “Jackie” Tarbox of Roulette, PA and Beverly Card of Weston Mills, NY
And many nieces and nephews
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Francis “Bub” Ludwig, Jr.; a sister, Beverly Braunroth; four brothers, Adelbert “Sonny” Tarbox, James Tarbox, Jerry Tarbox and Lester Tarbox.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, Aug. 20, from 11AM-1PM at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc., 105 Main St., Port Allegany, where funeral services will begin at 1PM in the funeral home with the Rev. Jim Cannistraci, Pastor of the Port Allegany United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in the Grimes Cemetery, Port Allegany.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Port Allegany Ambulance Service or the Port Allegany Star Hose Company. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany.
Susan B. McAlpine, 67, of Bailey Drive, Limestone, NY
Susan B. McAlpine, 67, of Bailey Drive, Limestone, NY, passed away Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Olean General Hospital, surrounded by her family.
Born on November 30, 1958, in Wooster OH, she was a daughter of the late Charles Jackson and Pauline Marie (Hull) Kirk, Sr.
Sue was a 1977 graduate of Limestone Union Free School, and the Continental Beauty School in Olean, NY.
On March 28, 1980 in Limestone NY, she married Donald L. McAlpine, who survives.
Sue was employed for many years at the Limestone Youth Recreation Center, and was a Teacher’s Aide at the Limestone School.
Sue was the most loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Throughout her life she worked caring for children, and everyone around her; a true caregiver at heart, Sue loved love. She enjoyed gardening and raised beautiful flowers.
Surviving in addition to her husband Don of 46 years, are two daughters, Amber McAlpine, of Limestone, and Kelleigh McAlpine, of Bradford, one son, D.J. McAlpine, of Bradford, one sister, Linda (Jerry) Peterson, of Bradford, three brothers, Charles (Barbara) Kirk, of Custer City, Kelly (Debbie) Kirk, of Custer City and James (Janet Kirk, of Bradford, her cherished grandson Ryker McNeill, and several nieces and nephews.
Sue was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Diane Kirk, one brother Kenneth Kirk and grandnephew, Peyton Kirk .
Friends will be invited to a Celebration of Life at a later date to be announced.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Peyton Kirk Memorial Scholarship at the McKean County Community Foundation, PO Box 708, Bradford PA 16701.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
