Tree Trimming in McKean County Underway

Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that a project to trim and remove trees on two McKean County roadways started earlier this week. This work will enhance driver safety and extend the service life of the roadway surface.
This work will impact approximately 8.5 miles of Route 59 between Route 4003 (Bingham Road) in Lafayette Township and Hamlin Street in Smethport Borough as well as approximately 3.5 miles of Route 219 between Route 6 in Hamlin Township and Route 3006 (Westline Road) in Lafayette. PennDOT anticipates short delays as flaggers in the roadway provide traffic control. It urges drivers to exercise caution in all work zones, watch for flaggers and slow-moving or stopped traffic, obey posted speed limits, and always buckle up.
Tree trimming and removal provide “daylighting” to the roadway, allowing sunlight to speed snow and ice melt during winter. It also enhances sight distance at some locations and lessens the potential for old and dead trees to fall onto the road.
The contractors will complete the work during daylight hours. Sajak’s Tree Service of Coalport, PA, and Sidelines Tree Service of Oakdale, PA, are the contractors for this work. PennDOT anticipates the work being completed in a few weeks.
Drivers can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,200 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
SUMMARY OF THE 166TH MEETING OF THE PENNSYLVANIA FISH AND BOAT COMMISSION

HARRISBURG, Pa. (April 27) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) began its quarterly business meeting by thanking anglers, agency staff, and volunteers for a safe and successful start to the 2026 trout season and promoting the plentiful fishing and boating opportunities that are just beginning as warmer spring temperatures arrive.
“With spring in full swing and even warmer summer temperatures not far behind, this is a truly special time of year to get outside and enjoy fishing and boating,” said John Mahn, Jr., PFBC President and District 2 Commissioner. “I appreciate the crowds of anglers that have been turning out for the first few weeks of trout season, including those who continue to assist our hatchery staff and Waterways Conservation Officers as they stock hundreds of waters statewide through Memorial Day. As water temperatures begin to warm up, the bass, panfish, and catfish action really begins to heat up on our rivers and lakes, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of the world-class Walleye fishery on Lake Erie beginning in May. As always, if you plan to fish from a boat, please remember to wear your life jacket.”
UPMC Dermatologist: What to Look For and How to Protect Your Skin

UPMC Dermatology
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and melanoma is its most dangerous form. The good news is that most skin cancers are highly treatable when found early, and many cases are preventable. Skin Cancer Awareness and Melanoma Awareness months are a good reminder to check your skin, protect it every day, and know when a spot needs medical attention.
Melanoma and other skin cancers: who is at risk?
Anyone can develop skin cancer. Risk is higher for people with a history of sunburns, frequent outdoor sun exposure, tanning bed use, many moles, or a personal or family history of skin cancer. People with lighter skin tones tend to be diagnosed more often, but melanoma can occur in any skin tone and may be missed when it appears in less sun-exposed areas such as the palms, soles, under nails, or inside the mouth. If you are not sure what is normal for your skin, that is a good reason to start looking regularly.
What to look for: the ABCDEs and other warning signs
Trey Kiser – PAHS Student Of The Week

We are pleased to recognize Trey Kiser from Port Allegany High School as our Student of the Week! Trey has been a dedicated member of Mr. Finch’s Building Construction Occupations Class at Seneca Highlands CTC for three years, where he has consistently demonstrated hard work, a positive attitude, and exceptional focus.
Elk County Council on the Arts Partners with Remake Learning Days for Mobile Making Event

The Elk County Council on the Arts (ECCOTA), in partnership with Remake Learning Days, is excited to announce a family-friendly art experience, Mobiles: The Art of Movement, taking place on May 9 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the ECCOTA Gallery in Ridgway.
Led by teaching artist Caroline Fitch, this interactive art activity has participants exploring the fascinating world of 4D artwork: art that incorporates motion as an essential element. Students will learn about balance, design, and movement as they create their own unique hanging mobiles.
Designed for ages 8 and up, the class welcomes both individuals and families, encouraging participants to create and learn together in a supportive and creative environment.
Registration is encouraged and can be completed online at www.ECCOTA.com or through the ECCOTA Facebook page.
Penn College Softball Team ‘all-in’

Regular and postseason playoff success have been a way of life for Penn College softball teams throughout this century.
Under coach Roger Harris from 2002-15, the Wildcats were 177-174, reaching the playoffs eight times, claiming two championships, two seconds and two thirds.
Under coach Jackie Klahold from 2016-19, teams were 76-70, with four playoff appearances and one second-place finish.
Coached by Angie Stackhouse from 2020 through last season, teams were 141-57, with three conference crowns (two United East), three trips to the NCAA Division III Regional, two conference runner-up finishes and one third-place finish.
Tonya I. Finster, 65, Of Roulette

Tonya I. Finster “loving wife, mother and grandmother”
ROULETTE, PA—Tonya I. Finster, 65, of Roulette, passed away with her loving husband by her side on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Gatehouse at Divine Providence Hospital, Williamsport, after a short illness.
Born on Wednesday, August 24, 1960 in Coudersport, she was a daughter of Samuel I. and Kathryn Pease Duell. On October 16, 1981 in Coudersport, she married George A. Finster, who survives.
Tonya was a graduate of Coudersport Area High School, Class of 1979. She attended Williamsport Community College. She was employed as a home health aide for many years.
Tonya enjoyed writing, drawing and reading. Her greatest love was spending time with her family.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband, George; her father, Samuel, of Colonial Heights, VA; a daughter, Amber (Austin) Moritz of Eldred; a granddaughter, Harley Moritz; a grandson, Christian Moritz; a sister, Trula Hollywood of Athens, PA; two brothers, Winn Scott (Hazel) Duell of Roulette and Randall C. Duell; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her mother, Tonya was predeceased by a brother, Samuel Duell.
Services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Tonya’s name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Tonya’s husband entrusted her care and cremation 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 Tonya, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Mr. Claire F. Bassage, 98, Of Palmyra, Formerly Of Clara, PA And Eldred, PA

Claire F. Bassage “beloved father and grandfather”
PALMYRA, NY—Mr. Claire F. Bassage, 98, of Palmyra, formerly of Clara, PA and Eldred, PA, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026 in DeMay Living Center, Newark, NY.
Born on Sunday, January 22, 1928 in Walworth, NY, he was a son of Loyde and Leona Ikewood Bassage. On March 26, 1949 in Walworth, he married Hazel S. Schlesing, who passed away on March 24, 2021.
Claire was a graduate of Walworth High School, Class of 1945. He was employed by Wayne Central School District, Wayne County, NY, retiring as a bus mechanic after 30 years of service. He was also a self-employed farmer while residing in Walworth. Claire and his wife relocated to Clara, PA in 1984 where he farmed there for 30 years. He moved to Eldred, PA in 2014. He and his wife moved to Palmyra, NY in 2017.
In his early years while residing in Walworth, Claire was a member of the First Baptist Church. He enjoyed traveling and gardening.
Surviving are four children, Cynthia L. (David) Lang of Culpeper, VA, Bruce L. Bassage of Palmyra, Pamela A. Bassage of Ontario, NY, and Judith L. Bassage of Virginia; several grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; a brother, George L. (Gweneth) Bassage of Manchester; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and wife, Claire was predeceased by a son, Glen A. Bassage; and a brother, Robert Bassage.
In keeping with Claire’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Claire’s name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Claire entrusted his care and cremation arrangements 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 Claire, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Pamela A. “Pam” Ruppert, 67, Of Coudersport

Pamela A. Ruppert “loving wife, mother, and grandmother”
COUDERSPORT, PA—Pamela A. “Pam” Ruppert, 67, of Coudersport, passed away with her loving family by her side on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in UPMC Hamot, Erie, after a long illness.
Born on Sunday, April 19, 1959 in York, she was a daughter of James W. and Alverta Lehr Melton. On February 14, 1981 in Sunbury, she married Kenneth E. “Ken” Ruppert, Jr., who survives.
Pam attended Red Lion High School. She was an opening manager at McDonald’s in Red Lion for several years.
Pam was a member of God’s Country Ministries in Coudersport. She enjoyed her flower gardens and also enjoyed taking trips on their Harley. She loved her many dogs over the years.
Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 45 years; two sons, Justin R. Ruppert of Clarion and Kenneth Eugene Ruppert III of Ulysses; a daughter, Kendra R. A. (Kevin) Shaffer of Felton; eighteen grandchildren; a great-grandson to be born in 2026; a brother, James (Veronica) Melton of Portsmouth, VA; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Pam was predeceased by a son, Jammie J. Ruppert.
Family and friends may gather from 11:00am to 12:30pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at God’s Country Ministries, 1237 E. Second Street, Coudersport, where a celebration of Pam’s life will follow at 12:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Pam’s name may be made to God’s Country Ministries, PO Box 674, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Pam’s family has entrusted her care and cremation 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 Pam, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Beverly A. MANNING, 85, Of Genesee, PA

Beverly A. MANNING, 85, of Genesee, PA, went home to be with her Lord on Monday, April 27, 2026 in Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY. A complete obituary will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Matthew J. STAHLEY, 49, Of Ulysses, PA

Matthew J. STAHLEY, 49, of Ulysses, PA, died Thursday, April 23, 2026 in UPMC Williamsport. Born January 9, 1977, in Wellsville, NY, he was the son of Gary B. and Jamie L. Piperato Stahley.
Matthew was a pure soul who brought joy to everyone he met. Born with Down syndrome, he worked hard to overcome his challenges always with a smile on his face. He rode his bike like a whirlwind, won medals in special Olympics for sprinting, and was an ambassador of goodwill at his sibling’s ball games.
Matt greeted everyone, strangers and friends alike, with a smile and outstretched hand or a hug. His greatest talent was making people smile and laugh. He enjoyed scary movies, music, and dogs. Matt was proud to be an uncle to his nieces and nephews and enjoyed going to their sporting events; he was always their biggest fan. Anyone who ever met Matt has a fond memory or a funny story to share about him. We were blessed to have him in our family and will miss him greatly.
Surviving are: his parents, Gary and Jamie Stahley of Ulysses; five siblings, Sarah Osgood of Coudersport, Aaron (Janelle) Stahley of Ulysses, Rebekah Reynolds of Coudersport, Rachel (Aaron) Palmatier of Wellsville, and Ben (Heather) Stahley of Coudersport; seven nieces and three nephews, Joplin Osgood, Sheamus Osgood, Paiton Whipple, Ayden Whipple, Emmarie Whipple, Devin Stahley, Ella Stahley, Averee Palmatier, Taylor Palmatier, and Addy Palmatier; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Services will be private. Memorials may be made to Ulysses Library, P.O. Box 316, Ulysses, PA 16948. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Dauch AAM Donates to Women Who Care Fund in Honor of Women’s History Month


St. Marys, PA — Dauch AAM’s St. Marys Manufacturing Facility recently contributed $500 to the Women Who Care Fund at the Elk County Community Foundation in recognition of Women’s History Month, observed each March. The donation honors the women employees at Dauch and reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting the local community.
Women Who Care awards annual grants to organizations throughout Elk County that serve families and children. This contribution will help strengthen the fund and enhance the impact of the upcoming granting cycle by increasing the dollars available for distribution to local nonprofit organizations.
Women Who Care extends its sincere appreciation to Dauch AAM for its partnership and continued support of local organizations dedicated to improving the well-being of Elk County families.
Businesses and organizations that would like to honor their women employees are welcome to sponsor their employees’ memberships to Women Who Care or donate to WWC in their name. Giving circles like Women Who Care amplify women’s voices and impact: members learn about issues, vet organizations, and practice grantmaking together. Women Who Care is a community-based giving initiative that pools donations to award annual grants to organizations serving families and children throughout Elk County.
Women Who Care is a project of the Elk County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies.
Penn College Lacrosse Team Reaching New Heights

At 13-4 overall, and tying its most successful regular season in program history set a year ago, the Penn College men’s lacrosse team finds itself in a familiar position as it heads into the United East Conference playoffs for the sixth consecutive season under coach Jordan Williams.
Playing a COVID-shortened schedule during their inaugural campaign in 2021, the Wildcats finished second to SUNY Morrisville. In 2022, they lost to St. Mary’s (Md.) College in the conference semifinals, and in 2023, they lost in the semifinals to SUNY Morrisville. The last two seasons in championship matches, they lost to St. Mary’s every time, but each year strides were being made.
On March 14 of this season in a nonconference outing, Penn College turned the tables on SUNY Morrisville, winning for the first time in six meetings.
Then, 14 days later in a UE matchup against St. Mary’s, the Wildcats had their best showing in their eight meetings as they led 10-8 after three periods of play before being outscored 5-0 in the fourth quarter. The three-goal final differential was the tightest ever between the two.
Anita L. Benjamin, 86, of Smethport

Smethport – Anita L. Benjamin, 86, of Smethport, passed away Saturday (April 25, 2026) surrounded by her family, at Sena Kean Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Smethport.
She was born March 14, 1940 in East Smethport, the daughter of Cecil and Crystabel (Smith) Grinolds. On July 8, 1960, in St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Smethport, she married Ronald C. “Skip” Benjamin, who died August 29, 2012.
Anita was a graduate of Smethport Area High School and was a homemaker tending to the needs of her family.
Anita and her husband Skip enjoyed camping and were camp hosts for the PA Park System. They had hosted Pymatuning State Park as well as Chapman State Park for several years.
Carol M. Geitner, 84, of St. Marys

Carol M. Geitner
February 24, 1942 — April 25, 2026
Carol M. Geitner, 84, of St. Marys, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
She was born on February 24, 1942 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late George and Helen Wildnauer Meyer.
On April 20, 1963, in Queen of the World Church, she married the late Gerhart “Gary” Geitner, who preceded her in death on May 21, 2003.
Carol was a graduate of St. Marys High School, class of 1960. She worked for more than 25 years at Servco. Carol was a woman who found purpose in caring for others. When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed the simple comforts of home, with her little dog faithfully by her side and her favorite tv shows playing in the background. For many years, she looked forward to going camping, where she found peace in nature and joy in life’s slower moments. She also had a love for cooking, always enjoying sharing a warm meal with her beloved family. She took great pride in her flowers, tending to them with the same gentle care that she showed to those around her.
She is survived by 4 children; Keith “Bootsie” Geitner of St. Marys, Scott Geitner of St. Marys, Dawn (Bob) Nasoni of St. Marys, and Christine (Rich) Kraus of Flagler Beach, FL, a daughter-in-law; Lori Geitner of St. Marys, and by her ten beloved grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one brother; Greg (Donna) Meyer and by numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her son; Richard “Hinder” Geitner who preceded her in death on Jan. 27, 2024, and by three brothers; James, Donald, and Jack Meyer.
A Memorial Service for Carol M. Geitner will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA, 15857.
Family and Friends will be received on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Elk County Humane Society.
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
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Carol M. Geitner, please visit our flower store.
2 Day Estate Sale! May 1 & 2 In Emporium

2 Day Estate Sale! May 1 & 2, 2026
Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm
35 Pioneer Rd Emporium, PA (Sylvan Heights)
Antique Singer Sewing Machine, Tools, living-room furniture, French door refrigerator, push-mower, air compressor, player pianos, bird cages, outdoor furniture, Copper Chef, Wolfgang Puck cooking items, antique/vintage toys, vintage typewriter, shelves, stands, woodworking tools, drill presses, player piano rolls, pole saw, ramps, bedding, dressers, desks, blankets, fine china, kitchen table, hutch, outdoor swing, freezers, mini refrigerator, cameras, TVs, Crocks, clothes, clocks, and much more. Please do not block driveways and respect the neighbors.
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert

HEADLINE: Wind Advisory issued April 27 at 11:04PM EDT until April 28 at 3:00PM EDT by NWS Binghamton NY
DESCRIPTION: * WHAT…South winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.
* WHERE…Steuben and Yates Counties.
* WHEN…Until 3 PM EDT Tuesday.
* IMPACTS…Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree
limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
INSTRUCTIONS: Secure outdoor objects.
Issued By: NWS Binghamton NY
**************************************************************
HEADLINE: Wind Advisory issued April 28 at 1:46AM EDT until April 28 at 2:00PM EDT by NWS Buffalo NY
DESCRIPTION: * WHAT…Southeast to south winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55
mph expected.
* WHERE…Chautauqua County, including the downslope region of the
Chautauqua Ridge to the Lake Erie shoreline.
* WHEN…Until 2 PM EDT this afternoon.
* IMPACTS…Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree
limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
Travel may be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles on
the NYS Thruway and Route 5 as wind gusts will be perpendicular to
travel.
INSTRUCTIONS: Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high
profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.
Issued By: NWS Buffalo NY
Tonya I. Finster, 65, of Roulette, PA

Tonya I. Finster
Tonya I. Finster, 65, of Roulette, passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Gatehouse at Divine Providence Hospital, Williamsport, after a short illness.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Tonya, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Causer Proposal Would Boost Funding for Areas With State-Owned Land
Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) has introduced legislation that will help increase revenue for counties, municipalities and school districts in which a significant amount of land is managed by the state.
The bill would expand upon the existing Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) currently provided by the state by requiring a portion of revenue collected from the sale of timber, oil and natural gas from state-owned land – as well as revenue from the construction or placement of radio towers and rent and royalties – to be shared with government entities in which the land is located.
“The local governments where state land is located are restricted from future economic development and continually struggle with a limited tax base,” Causer said. “While agencies do pay a small amount in lieu of taxes to these entities, it is a small fraction of what the land could be worth considering the significant revenue the state is collecting from the way they are using the land.”
Library To Host Poetry Night Tuesday

Coudersport Public Library will host a special Poetry Night on Tuesday, April 28 at 7:00 p.m. This free community event is being held in memory of our friend, poet and writer Daniel F. “Danny” Glassmire, and will feature readings of some of his works, along with poems beloved by others.
In addition, participants will share their own writings, or recite a poem that’s personally meaningful. The public is also invited to attend and listen, and perhaps find comfort and inspiration in the words of others.
Light refreshments will be served.
For those unable to attend, this event may be viewed via Zoom. Email coudersportlibrary@gmail.com by 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday if you would like the link.
Betty J. BAER, 74, Of Port Allegany, Life Celebration

Betty J. BAER, 74, of Port Allegany, PA, died Wednesday, November
26, 2025. A gathering to celebrate Betty’s life will be held Saturday,
May 2, 2026, at Port Allegany Moose Lodge #460, 35 Pearl Street, Port
Allegany, PA 16743 from 11:00 AM — 2:00 PM. Arrangements are
under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory,
Switzer Chapel, 77 Willow Street, Port Allegany, PA. Online
condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute in Williamsport Offers Targeted, Minimally Invasive Option for Arrhythmias

Williamsport, Pa., April 27, 2026 – Electrophysiologists at UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute in Williamsport now offer pulsed field ablation (PFA), a new, minimally invasive treatment option for atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common abnormal heart rhythm.
“AFib is a complex rhythm disorder and is the most common abnormal heart rhythm we see in our practice,” said Suppiramaniam Sreeharikesan, M.D. (Dr. Kesan for short), electrophysiologist, UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. “Adding this new procedure advances the level of heart care in the region. Studies have shown PFA can decrease the risk of complications compared with other kinds of ablation and we know there are patients who will directly benefit from it here in the community.”
PFA uses short bursts of electrical energy delivered through a specially designed catheter to target and destroy the specific heart tissue causing the irregular heartbeat. The short pulses of high-energy electricity create small holes in the cell membrane of the targeted tissue, leading to cell death. The electrical pulses are more specifically targeted, so there is a lower risk of damaging nearby structures like the esophagus and phrenic nerve than traditional catheter ablation.
“We know patients want to be in the hospital for as short of a stay as possible. An added benefit of PFAs is that they are generally same-day procedures,” said Dr. Kesan. “The length of the procedure can vary depending on factors like the size of a patient’s heart chambers and their specific type of AFib. However, most PFA procedures last between one and two hours and require a few additional hours of recovery observation, which if a patient is cleared, they are discharged to recover at home. Most patients can then return to their normal routine one week post-procedure.”
UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute is one of the leading centers for cardiovascular care in the United States. To learn more about the experts and services available for diagnosis and treatment in northcentral Pennsylvania, visit UPMC.com/HeartNCPA.













