TRAVEL ADVISORY – Lane Reductions Along Route 275 In Bolivar, Allegany County
The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that a portion of State Route 275, just North of Reed Street, in the Town of Bolivar, Allegany County, will be reduced to a single lane with alternating traffic. Work will take place between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. beginning Monday, May 18, to accommodate a culvert replacement project. Traffic will be controlled by temporary traffic signals. The work is anticipated to be completed by the end of November.
Successful Day For Planting For Wildlife At Tionesta Lake On Saturday
Tionesta, Pa.: The rain poured all morning but just before 1:00 p.m. the sun decided to shine. A dozen volunteers met with employees of the Army Corps of Engineers at Tionesta Lake last Saturday to do some planting for wildlife habitat improvement in a savannah along the Tionesta River. The Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) Upland Bird Hunt Chapter sponsored the planting.
The Potter County Farmers Market
The Potter County Farmers Market will be outdoors on the square across from the county jail, every Friday from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Market will also be held on Saturday, if vendors are available, from 11 am to 3 pm. The next market weekend will be this Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th. Below is a list of who plans to be there and what they plan on bringing to the Market:
[NOTICES:
* NEW SCHEDULE FOR 2026. The outdoor market is held EACH FRIDAY. Market will also be held on SATURDAY IF VENDORS ARE AVAILABLE. Market will be held from May through December (weather permitting).
* Market times have been established after many trial times over the years. If you are not able to visit us and would like something particular from one of the vendors, please contact them directly. They are willing to try to accommodate your request.
* If you are interested in joining the market this year or have any questions please contact …. Netra Baker, 814-544-7313 netrabaker2@gmail.com]
Harry E. Rounsville, 79, Of Smethport
Smethport – Harry E. Rounsville, 79, of Smethport, passed away on Wednesday (May 13, 2026) at his home in Smethport.
He was born October 26, 1946 in Bradford, PA, the son of Willard and Nellie (Snyder) Rounsville. After graduation, he joined the Army and served from 1964 to 1984. On October 3, 1969, he married Sandra K. Pierce. After their divorce, he married Carrie (Isaman, Catalano, Sheffer) on March 20, 1990, who survives.
After the Army, he worked for Valu Home Center for ten years, then Quaker Mill Works in Orchard Park, NY. After moving back to PA, he worked for Smethport Specialty in Smethport, then for Superior Well Services in Bradford from where he retired.
Harry liked fishing and running his tractor and skid-steer. He served as vice-president of BCYC. He was also a foster parent from 2007 to 2012. During this time, he opened his home to many children of which some stayed a day and some years.
Surviving, besides his wife, Carrie, are:
Seven children: Willard Rounsville, Sandra Schermerhorn, Brian Rounsville, Jeremiah Rounsville, Desirae Rounsville, Drake Rounsville, and Kaiden Rounsville
Keith F. Wedge, 82, of Ceres, NY, a formerly of Bolivar
Keith F. Wedge “beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather”
Keith F. Wedge, 82, of Ceres, NY, a former longtime resident and businessman of Bolivar, passed away in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, with his loving family by his side, on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
Born on Wednesday, August 11, 1943 in Little Genesee, he was a son of Charles E. and Audra Faye Keller Wedge. On November 30, 1963 in Obi, he married Alona J. Wall, who survives.
Keith was a graduate of Bolivar Central High School.
Early in Keith’s working career, he was employed by General Electric in Erie, PA. He then owned and operated two machine shops where he manufactured jacks that were used in the oil fields. He later went to work for Dresser Industries in Olean. While working at Dresser, the family owned and operated the former Wedgewood Restaurant in Eldred, PA. Keith, along with his wife and their family, founded and worked at the family business, Wedge Action Auction in Bolivar. While running the auction business, Keith and his family also started Wedge Moving and Storage. His last business venture was owning and operating Wedge Realty, retiring only due to ill health.
For several years, Keith and Alona lived in Florida after their retirement. He was a member of Macedonia Lodge #258 F. & A.M. in Bolivar. He was also a Shriner for many years, where he enjoyed being a part of the Shrine Circus, especially his role as Patches the Clown. He loved to hunt and fish. He was also an avid golfer. He loved his many pets over the years. His greatest love was his family, especially his grandchildren.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 62 years, Alona; three children, Laura M. (John) Lord of Smethport, PA, Diana L. Lawton of Bradford, PA, and Heath A. (Tina) Wedge of Olean; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a great-grandson to be born in August; two brothers, Ronald (Darlene) Wedge and John (Corena) Wedge, both of Bolivar; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Keith was predeceased by three sisters, Blanche Clark, Theda Barth, and Irene Miller; two brothers, Max Wedge and Loren Wedge; and a son-in-law, Christopher Lawton.
Keith’s family will receive relatives and friends from 11am to 1pm on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, PA, where funeral services will follow at 1pm with Pastor Eric B. Kessel of Bradford Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Maple Lawn Cemetery, Bolivar.
Members of Macedonia Lodge #258 F. & A.M. will conduct a Masonic service on Saturday at the funeral home at 12:45pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Keith’s name may be made to Shriners Children’s Erie, Office of Philanthropy, 1645 West 8th St., Erie, PA 16505.
Keith’s family has entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Keith, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Sizerville State Park
Environmental Education Programs ~ May 16th – 18th
Program Title: Wildflower Walk
Date: Saturday, May 16th
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Environmental Learning Center
Description: Join the park educator for a spring wildflower walk throughout the park! Short talk on wildflowers, followed by a walk around the ELC to see what we can find. Wear sturdy shoes and feel free to bring a water bottle.
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Program Title: Nesting Neighborhood
Date: Saturday, May 16th
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Environmental Learning Center
Description: Have you ever wondered what a Hummingbird’s nest looks like? This program is going to go over all the different types of nests that our local birds make. Short talk followed by a walk in the park to see if we can spot some of these diverse residences.
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Program Title: Bird Walk with Barb – Guest Speaker
Date: Sunday, May 17th
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Environmental Learning Center
Description: Join the park educator and state park volunteer, Barb Gee, for a short walk to identify and listen to common birds of Sizerville State Park! Anyone is welcome, whether you have birded for years or if you are a beginner. Hiking shoes are recommended. Feel free to bring a water bottle and your own binoculars—binoculars will be provided as well.
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Program Title: Bees, Butterflies, & Beyond!
Date: Monday, May 18th
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Location: Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library
Description: Did you know that butterflies, bats, birds, and bees are some of the top pollinator species that exist in PA? Join the park educator at the library to learn more about each of these species & their role in the ecosystem. Short talk followed by doing a make-and-take bumble bee craft! There will also be a specially themed story time.
Registration is recommended at this link: https://forms.gle/FNuedw5umT3wVRXe6
Note: This program is NOT taking place at Sizerville State Park. The program will be held at the Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library, 27 West 4th Street, Emporium, PA.
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Additional Information:
To register for a program, go to the DCNR Calendar of Events website, search Sizerville State Park, find the program listed, and click on the Register button right under the program date, time, and location. For more information or questions about registering, please contact the Environmental Learning Center at (814) 486-5609.
Sizerville State Park Calendar of Events Website: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/sizerville_state_park
In case of thunder, lightning, or extreme weather conditions programs may be moved or cancelled.
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the park office at (814) 486-5605.
With a minimum of one week notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are available for educational programs.
Additional programs and events can be found on the DCNR website by clicking on the Events tab or go to https://events.dcnr.pa.gov and search Sizerville State Park. For more information or questions about programs at Sizerville State Park, please contact the Environmental Learning Center at (814) 486-5609.
Coudersport Rotary Club Gathered At A&W West End Grill
At their weekly meeting on May 11, 2026, the Coudersport Rotary Club gathered at A&W West End Grill to hear an update from Kal Logue, Community Development/Block Grant Coordinator and guest of Rotarian Janine Morley, regarding the county-wide development initiative known as “Revitalize Potter County.”
Logue explained that it had been two years since he and Will Hunt last addressed the Rotary Club on April 22, 2024, when Potter County was awaiting grant approval to begin work on its first-ever county-wide development plan. He announced that the Potter County Commissioners are expected to officially enact the plan on Thursday, following the close of the public comment period at the end of Wednesday.
MEET BENJAMIN FRANKLIN IN PERSON THIS FRIDAY, MAY 15 AT THE DEANE CENTER IN WELLSBORO
Based on his extensive study of Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790), Barry Stevens of Arlington, Virginia will deliver an interactive performance focusing on this Founding Father’s wit, wisdom, and scientific contributions.
His uncanny resemblance to Franklin combined with his authentic 18th-century attire and historically accurate and interactive storytelling makes it easy for audiences to believe Stevens is Ben Franklin.
This is the third program in the Deane Center’s History Comes Alive series, which is focusing on six historic figures in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
The show will be at 7:30 p.m. this Friday, May 15 in the Coolidge Theatre at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro.
Franklin’s only props are bifocals he invented in 1784 to address his own eye problems, a walking stick and a stool to sit on. Speaking in the first person as Franklin, Stevens will provide information about his life by asking and answering two questions from the stage. Who am I? What are my accomplishments?
Gordon M. “Mike” Smith, 86, Of Whitesville, NY
Gordon M. “Mike” SMITH, 86, of Whitesville, NY, died Sunday, May 10, 2026, in his home. Born May 8, 1940, in Whitesville, he was the son of Virgil and Marian Bartoo Smith.
A 1959 graduate of Whitesville Central School, he was employed by Mapes and later by Dresser Rand as a drill press operator, retiring in 2002. He was also an operator of The Welcome Inn in Whitesville.
Mike loved camping and listening to Country and Bluegrass music, attending many live music events and dances all over the area. He was active at senior centers in Allegany County and in Coudersport, PA.
Surviving are: a son, Michael L. (Karen) Smith of Whitesville; a daughter, Kimberly L. (Joel) Cockle of Fillmore; four grandchildren, Michael G. Smith of Hornell, Holly (Trevor) Laurie of York, Clancey (Zach Tucker) Cockle of Fillmore, and Reid Cockle of Fillmore; two great-grandchildren, Daisy Laurie and Rose Laurie; a sister, Gloria Young of GA; a sister-in-law, Sharlotte Smith of Andover; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Martin Smith; and a brother-in-law, Frank Young. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Martin Smith; and a brother-in-law, Frank Young.
A gathering to celebrate Gordon’s life will be held on a later date. Memorials may be made to the Whitesville Public Library, P.O. Box 158, Whitesville, NY 14897.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Students Explore Career Pathways Through Interactive Mobile Learning Lab Experiences
Students recently participated in a series of engaging, hands-on Mobile Learning Lab sessions provided by Alfred State College, bringing career exploration and experiential learning directly into the classroom.
The Mobile Learning Lab, coordinated through Alfred State’s outreach programming, introduced students to a variety of high-demand career fields through immersive activities designed to promote critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Happy Birthday To Me…
By B.J. Knefley
Well, I just had my 80th birthday. My daughter gave me a card that broke those 80 years down into 960 months, 4,171 weeks, 29,219 days, 701,266 hours, and 42,075 minutes. That’s a lot of time. What I want to know is where the time has gone?
I’ve often said that life happens while we’re making other plans. Yes, we may plan for things, but it doesn’t always go as planned. Things happen that can disrupt the plans for the vacation you planned, the career you thought you were going to follow, and a host of other things. Some would say that if life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Is it that easy to flow with the many turns and detours that life brings? Or is there something far deeper than just living life as it goes?
As I look back on my life, I can tell you that much has happened that I hadn’t planned. For example, I had my car packed and was heading to Florida to start college when it broke down. I never made it to Florida, but I did eventually graduate from college. Another time, I had been accepted into a doctoral program only to be dropped from it a week before classes were to start. So much for that plan. The constant in my life was my belief that there was a plan and that God was its creator. My life was like a river. At times it was peaceful and serene, and the next moment I found myself in rushing rapids, fighting to keep my boat upright.
Not everything that has happened has been pleasant. I grew up amid some difficult things, but I learned that even in those times I could find God’s grace and mercy. Those experiences helped shape me into who I am today. If I understand that God is the Potter and I’m the clay, then in His hands He can make me into something useful and beautiful. So yes, even the painful things of life are useful in the Potter’s hands.
In the end, I realize that I am unique; there isn’t another one like me. I suppose we should all be grateful for that, but we each serve a purpose. The simplest prayer I say is, “Lord, what is it you want of me today?” Think about it.
CANYON PIOTS ASSOCIATION ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FLY-IN BREAKFAST IS NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 24TH
The Canyon Pilots Association Memorial Day Weekend All-You-Can-Eat Fly-In Breakfast is next Sunday, May 24 from 8 a.m. to noon indoors in the corporate hanger at the Grand Canyon Regional Airport in Delmar Township at 112 Runway Road, Wellsboro, PA 16901. The breakfast is open to the public and will be held rain or shine.
On the menu are ham, eggs, buckwheat pancakes, coffee and orange juice. Requested is a donation of $10 for adults and $5 for youngsters 4 to 8 years old. Children ages 3 and under are admitted free.
Parking, including handicapped parking, is available for free.
Weather permitting, pilots in various types of full-size aircraft will fly in to the airport for the breakfast. If the weather cooperates, people are welcome to watch them land and take off and have chats with the pilots about their aircraft.
Also available, weather permitting, will be airplane flights over the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon for a fee. Raffle winners will get free rides aboard a helicopter.
The Mountain Modelaires, a local group, will have radio-controlled model airplanes and helicopters on display in a nearby hanger.
Coudersport Borough Police Department took possession of an AED
To our community,
The Coudersport Volunteer Fire Department prides itself on providing quality public service and being there for people in their time of need. Our fundraising efforts are about more than just buying the “big shiny red truck” or providing our members with lifesaving gear and equipment.
We saw a need within our community, and our membership took it upon ourselves to help fulfill it.
On 5/11/2026, the Coudersport Borough Police Department took possession of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) to carry while on duty, helping ensure a rapid response to those within our community experiencing a cardiac emergency.
C&N Announces Retirement Of Kelley A. Cwiklinski And Promotion Of Greg Adamson
WELLSBORO, PA — After more than four decades of dedicated service, C&N announces the retirement of Kelley A. Cwiklinski, Chief Commercial Lending Officer, whose 41-year career has made a lasting impact on the company, its customers, and the communities it serves. Her retirement will be effective as of close-of-business on Friday, July 10, 2026.
Cwiklinski joined C&N on July 1, 2020, through the Covenant Bank merger as Senior Vice President, Director of Commercial Lending and was promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Lending Officer in February 2023. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, she has led our commercial lending strategy, including business planning, budgeting, growth initiatives and the most recent acquisition of Susquehanna Community Bank, while championing a relationship‑focused approach that has strengthened portfolio growth and retention.
Donald E. Patterson, Sr., 78, of Bradford
Donald E. Patterson, Sr., 78, of Bradford, passed away Monday, May 11, 2026, at UPMC Cole in Coudersport.
Born in Olean, NY on October 19, 1947, he was a son of the late Harry and Mildred Patterson.
After high school Don joined the United States Army, served his country and was honorably discharged on February 23, 1967.
Don worked for many years as a Coast to Coast Truck Driver.
On October 19, 1992, Donald married Sarah (Peters) Patterson, who preceded him in death on October 3, 2018.
When home he loved spending time in his garage working on vehicles, spending time with his family, and driving the Amish around. He was a lifetime member of the Knapp Creek Fire Department.
Surviving are three daughters, Mary (Paul) Schoolmaster, of Bradford, Lou Ellen “Bunny” (Charles) Taber, of Bradford, and Nellie (Penny) Taylor, of Malone NY, two sons, Daniel Hirt, of Scio NY and Donald Patterson Jr., of Bolivar NY, nine grandchildren, Crystal, Jesse, Heather, Ronald, Jayme, Brittany, Johnathan, David, Harvey, five great-grandchildren, Dakoda, Kassandra, Madison, Payton, Esme, two great-great grandchildren, Tucker, Sapphire, two brothers in-law, John “Jack” Peters and Miles Peters and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Sarah of 33 years, one sister, Charlene Patterson, one brother, Nelson “Pat” Patterson, one daughter, LeAnne Patterson, one niece Tammy Mackey, one daughter-in law, Margaret Hirt, and one granddaughter Brianna Patterson.
Friends will be invited to a Celebration of Life which will be held at a later date to be announced. Military Honors will be accorded in Pleasant Valley Cemetery by members of the United States Army.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to support the Knapp Creek Fire Department, 253 Rt 16S, Knapp Creek, NY 14760.
Online condolences may be expressed for his family at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
OGH Continues Progress Of Major Emergency Department Expansion And New Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program
OLEAN, NY – Olean General Hospital, a Kaleida Health facility, is proud to announce plans for a major expansion and complete renovation of its Emergency Department, including the addition of a dedicated Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) designed to meet the growing mental health needs of the region.
The project, submitted through a Limited Review Certificate of Need (C.O.N.) Application, includes a 13,300-square-foot addition and full renovation of the hospital’s existing 10,100-square-foot Emergency Department space. Once complete, the upgraded department will significantly enhance patient care, improve emergency services capacity and create a specialized environment for behavioral health treatment.
LOCAL STUDENT CHOSEN TO ATTEND STUDENTS INSIDE ALBANY PROGRAM
The local league chapter is pleased to announce that JUNE HILMEY, a junior from Allegany-Limestone High School, has been chosen to attend this year’s Students Inside Albany program sponsored by the League of Women Voters of New York State Education Foundation, Inc.,This long standing annual Students Inside Albany program will take place from May 17 – 20, 2026 and will bring more than 45 students from across the state to Albany to get a first-hand education about their state government. The program is designed to increase high school students’ awareness of their responsibility in representative government and provide information about the tools necessary for meeting that responsibility.