Vietnam Veterans of America Bucktail Chapter 720 Awards Scholarships

Front row- Left to right- Emma Gavazzi, Molly Hanslovan
At the monthly meeting of the Vietnam Veterans of America Bucktail Chapter 720 on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the seven winners of the Vietnam Veterans Scholarship were awarded checks for $1500 each.
Each year, this Vietnam Veterans Chapter does several fundraisers to support this scholarship program and several other programs. Each scholarship applicant may choose to write an essay on one of four subjects related to the Vietnam War. The chairperson for the essay committee is Karen Aravich, and the current officers of Bucktail Chapter 720 are: President- Harry Peterson, Vice President- Louie Gregori, Treasurer- Rick Taylor, and Secretary- Wally Struble.
This year’s award winners are: Grace Bon, Emma Gavazzi, Quin Gavazzi, Molly Hanslovan, Ryan Reinsel, Alex Sago, and Meghan Tettis.
2026 PA Wilds Champion Awards Winners Announced

Registration now open for July 30 Dinner & Awards to be held at DuBois Country Club

The PA Wilds Center is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Champions of the PA Wilds Awards. The 2026 Champions are –
- Artisan of the Year: Marie Lewis of Pine Springs Pottery, Clarion County
- Best Brand Ambassador: Pine Creek Seed Farm Corn Maze, Clinton County
- Business of the Year: Kane Manor Inn, McKean County
- Conservation Stewardship: Claire and Rusty Orner of Quiet Creek Herb Farm & School of Country Living, Jefferson County
- Event of the Year: Forest County Bigfoot Festival, Forest County
- Great Design: Floating Feathers Brewing Company, Clinton County
- Great Places: Historic Armstrong Brick Block, Elk County
- Inspiring Youth: Jack Maxwell, Clarion County
- Outstanding Leader: Richard Wykoff, Clinton County
- PA Wilds Planning Team Member of the Year: Candace Hillyard, Potter County
The winners will be honored at the 2026 PA Wilds Dinner & Awards, to be held on Thursday, July 30 in Clearfield County. The theme for this year’s event is “The Power of Partnerships.”
The Black Forest Conservation Association Will Be Hosting A Women’s Handgun Safety Course
The Black Forest Conservation Association will be hosting a Women’s Handgun Safety Course from June 8th to 11th, 2026 at 6pm on the clubhouse grounds at 189 Back Road, Coudersport. This event is open to the public. No prior experience is required, and participants do not need to own a handgun. The cost is $100 per person, which includes ammunition and targets.
Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Stephanie Gerhart at (814)598-0720 for further information or to register. Limited spots are available!
Bazzini Voluntarily Recalls Certain Lots Of SkinnyDipped® Dark Chocolate Coconut Almond Bites Due To Undeclared Peanut Allergen

Bazzini, LLC, of Allentown, PA, a co-manufacturer utilized by SkinnyDipped®, is voluntarily recalling a limited number of cases of SkinnyDipped® Dark Chocolate Coconut Almond Bites, out of an abundance of caution, due to the possible presence of undeclared peanut allergen. People who have allergies to peanuts run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
The recalled products were distributed nationwide and sold through retailers. Some products were also provided as complimentary samples to consumers. The products consist of individually wrapped bites sold in packages of different sizes. Recalled products can be identified by the lot code and Best By (BB) date on the exterior package. Each individually wrapped bite can be identified by the lot code and best by date as shown below:
This recall is limited to only those products identified below. No other SkinnyDipped® products are affected.
Raaw Energy Expands Recall Of Dog Food Because Of Listeria Monocytogenes Health Risk

Raaw Energy is voluntarily notifying the public of a recall involving products produced between 7/17/25 and 12/23/25 due to possible Listeria contamination. Another batch date is 3.31.26 Beef and Turkey Medley. While not all products from this period tested positive, this action is being taken out of an abundance of caution. Some products produced during this timeframe were not tested, and bacterial presence was identified during the same period. As a result, products manufactured within these dates could possibly be affected.
Consumers are advised not to use, sell, or consume any affected product. Please discard these items immediately to help reduce the risk of illness.
JUNIOR GAME WARDEN CAMPS PROVIDE HANDS-ON LEARNING

HARRISBURG — Whether collecting forensic evidence that will bring poachers to justice, tracking down lost hikers or live-trapping black bears for research, Pennsylvania State Game Wardens have among the most unique, diverse and exciting careers in wildlife conservation.
This summer, youths ages 12 to 15 can experience some of it for themselves.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is holding one-day Junior Game Warden Camps across the Commonwealth, providing those who attend a structured, fun-filled day learning about the career of a Pennsylvania State Game Warden.
Campers will spend the day with game wardens, gaining insight into the job and the Game Commission’s mission of managing and protecting the state’s wildlife and habitats while promoting hunting and trapping. Campers will join wardens in light physical fitness activities, confidence-building exercises and hands-on learning stations. Campers will learn about wildlife forensics and methods used by wardens to catch poachers and solve wildlife-related crimes. Other activities will involve wildlife-capture techniques, woodland tracking and outdoor survival.
Failure To Pay Bench Warrant Issued In Bradford

On May 26, 2026, at approximately 2009 hours, City of Bradford Police located and arrested a female, Ashley M. Smith, exiting 15 Pearl Street.
Smith had an active arrest warrant out of the McKean County Sheriff’s Office for failure to pay on a prior Aggravated Assault / DUI charge.
Smith was transferred to the McKean County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Potter County Farmers Market, Friday And Saturday
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 29th and Saturday, May 30th. Below is a list of who plans to be there and what they plan on bringing to the Market:
* 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]
FRIDAY VENDORS – May 29th – 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm
C & V SOAP AND CANDLES will be at the farmers market on Friday and Saturday if weather is permitting. We will be having a variety of handmade soaps scented and unscented. Bath bombs, body butters, beard balms, sugar scrubs, lotions bars, bath salts . Candle baskets bouquets, vase bouquet, wax warmer melts. We accept cash, PayPal, Venmo, MasterCard, Visa. Hopefully the weather cooperates this weekend. We look to see you there to check out all the great vendors… You can contact me at vickymoon60@gmail.com or 801-660-8457..
CARING CRAFTS will be at the market on Friday & Saturday! Weather Permitting! Will have a variety of Homemade Travel Pillows and Plastic Canvas Ornaments/Magnets to choose from! Cash payments excepted! If you miss us and would like to place an order like us on Facebook or contact me (Jessica Cornelius) 814 203 2482! Hope to see everyone Friday!
ME AND MY BOYS SOAP will be attending the market on Friday and Saturday. We will have a selection of goat milk based products that include soap bars, shampoo bars, lotions and bath bombs. We accept cash or card payments. For more information contact us at meandmyboyssoap@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page.
QUIET ACRES will be at market this Friday only. We will have our full line of Haldeman Mills products from Lancaster County including gluten free buckwheat flour and dark and ivory teff. We also carry buttermilk and buckwheat pancake mixes, shortcake/cobbler mix, soft pretzel and funnel cake mixes. Last but not least, Brinser’s cornmeal. On the craft side, I make aprons, one size fits all with pockets, adult and children, including NFL, NHL and MLB teams as well as anything from sunflowers, John Deere, unicorns, etc. Made from wash line rope, I have bowls of many sizes, colors and styles. Orders are welcome for any of the above.
We accept cash payments.
SATURDAY VENDORS – May 30th – 11 am to 3 pm
C & V SOAP AND CANDLES will be at the farmers market on Friday and Saturday if weather is permitting. We will be having a variety of handmade soaps scented and unscented. Bath bombs, body butters, beard balms, sugar scrubs, lotions bars, bath salts . Candle baskets bouquets, vase bouquet, wax warmer melts. We accept cash, PayPal, Venmo, MasterCard, Visa. Hopefully the weather cooperates this weekend. We look to see you there to check out all the great vendors… You can contact me at vickymoon60@gmail.com or 801-660-8457..
CARING CRAFTS will be at the market on Friday & Saturday! Weather Permitting! Will have a variety of Homemade Travel Pillows and Plastic Canvas Ornaments/Magnets to choose from! Cash payments excepted! If you miss us and would like to place an order like us on Facebook or contact me (Jessica Cornelius) 814 203 2482! Hope to see everyone Friday!
ME AND MY BOYS SOAP will be attending the market on Friday and Saturday. We will have a selection of goat milk based products that include soap bars, shampoo bars, lotions and bath bombs. We accept cash or card payments. For more information contact us at meandmyboyssoap@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page.
THORNY BUSH FARM will be at the market Saturday May 30 with Goat milk fudge and herbal honey and gift items. Cash, check, and Venmo payment methods
USDA Celebrates 90th Anniversary of Rural Electrification Act, Billions Invested in Electric Infrastructure

Washington, D.C., May 27, 2026) – Today the U.S. Department of Agriculture celebrates the 90th anniversary of rural electrification, one of the greatest achievements in American history and a powerful reminder that when Americans are put first, America wins. Since January 20, 2025, USDA Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) has invested $10.4 billion in rural electric generation, transmission, and distribution systems across the United States, continuing the mission first launched under the Rural Electrification Act (REA).
“Ninety years ago, the Rural Electrification Act transformed rural America and changed the future of this great nation,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. “It proved that when government and local communities work together, there is no challenge beyond our reach. Today, the Trump Administration remains committed to advancing that legacy by ensuring our rural communities have the resources they need to succeed.”
On May 20, 1936, REA was signed into law, providing funding to advance electricity into rural areas. America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural families answered the call by forming cooperatives that secured financing to power their homes, farms, and businesses.
In just a few years, rural electrification transformed the country. Entire regions were lifted into economic productivity, and American agriculture supercharged into global dominance. By the 1950’s, more than 90% of farms in the United States had electricity, an achievement unmatched anywhere in the world. Many of the cooperatives formed during that era( still operate today, continuing to deliver power to millions of rural Americans.
“On the 90th anniversary of the Rural Electrification Act, we recognize how it transformed rural America and launched the electric cooperative model—giving communities reliable, affordable power and a voice in their energy future,” said Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. “The Rural Utilities Service was created to carry that mission forward and today, RUS builds on that foundation by investing in resilient infrastructure and supporting access to reliable, affordable energy. It remains the most successful infrastructure financing bank in federal history and the lowest-cost source of financing for co-ops—keeping rates low while returning value to taxpayers through loan repayment with interest.”
The partnerships between USDA and rural electric cooperatives remain as important today as they were 90 years ago. Through RUS, USDA supports affordable and reliable energy infrastructure that keeps pace with economic growth, strengthens grid resilience, and hardens rural electric systems against cyber and physical threats.
The legacy established by REA is carried forward under the leadership of President Donald Trump, whose America First agenda has made U.S. energy independence, grid security, and domestic production top national priorities.
Ninety years after its founding, rural electrification stands as a defining example of what makes this country great: putting Americans first, investing in American workers, communities, and the future.
For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making RD’s investment data accessible to the public.
FOLLOW THE LINK BELOW TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE AND VIEW PHOTOS
Roger Wayne Perkins, 83, Of Olean, NY

Roger Wayne Perkins “true gentleman”
OLEAN, NY—Roger Wayne Perkins, 83, of Olean, NY, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026, in Absolut Care of Allegany, Allegany.
Born on Tuesday, February 23, 1943, in Russell, PA, he was a son of Howard and Fern Ball Perkins. On February 13, 1965 in the Shinglehouse Methodist Church, he married Rose Anne Bixby, who survives.
Roger started school in one room country schools in Crystal, PA and later in Millport, PA and was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School, Class of 1961 in Shinglehouse, PA. He played basketball and baseball and was in the band and chorus. He had many fond memories of working on his grandfather’s farm and hunting with his father, grandfather, and uncles.
Roger was a veteran of the US Air Force from 1962-1968. He was trained in Ground Communications Repair and TDDL Systems and served as a Buck Sergeant at a radar site near Nellis AFB in Las Vegas, Nevada during the Vietnam War era. He also played baseball while in the USAF.
PITT-BRADFORD’S FIRST FULL COHORT OF ENGINEERING GRADUATES FULLY EMPLOYED

BRADFORD, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s first full cohort of engineering technology students graduated May 3, and all of them are currently employed with an average reported starting salary of $88,376.
Gary Anderson, an adjunct professor in the program and retired vice president of engineering at Keystone Powdered Metal in St. Marys, surveyed the 13 engineering technology students during a finals week picnic — and quite a few were already hired by companies where they had interned last summer.
West Penn Energy Fund Supports 2026 Teen Conservation Camp Through Lumber Heritage Region Partnership

The Lumber Heritage Region (LHR), in partnership with Cameron County Outdoor Youth Activities (CCOYA) and Penn State Extension Cameron County 4-H, is now accepting registrations for the 2026 Teen Conservation Camp! This camp will provide an immersive outdoor learning experience designed to connect teens with Pennsylvania’s forests, natural resources, and conservation heritage.
Made possible in part through support from the West Penn Energy Fund (WPEF), the camp provides students ages 15 – 17 with hands-on opportunities to explore forest ecosystems, learn outdoor skills, meet conservation, recreation, and forest products professionals, and gain a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and sustainability practices in Pennsylvania.
West Penn Energy Fund Administrator, Joel Morrison, said “Part of WPEF’s mission is helping communities better understand sustainable practices and the industries connected to them. Supporting hands-on educational opportunities like this camp is an important part of that work. This program is designed to engage and empower high school age youth to become conservation ambassadors to ensure a sustained wildlife, and natural resource legacy for future generations. These are our leaders in training.”
Throughout the program, participants will engage in activities focused on forestry, wildlife, recreation, local history, conservation, sustainability, and the forest products industry while building confidence, leadership skills, and connections to the outdoors.
By supporting programs like Teen Conservation Camp, the West Penn Energy Fund helps expand environmental education opportunities for young people and encourages the next generation of conservation leaders and resource stewards.
Lumber Heritage Region Executive Director stated, “There are countless career opportunities in the Lumber Heritage Region. We’re proud to partner with the West Penn Energy Fund to help prepare future workers for meaningful careers that support Pennsylvania’s economy, conservation efforts, and rural communities.”
Participation is limited to 15 students to help provide a small-group, hands-on learning environment. Registration before June 1st is encouraged. Additional information and registration details can be found at:
https://lumberheritage.org/grants-projects/classes-learning-opportunities/lhr-teen-conservation-camp-2026/
For questions, please contact:
Rowan Crisp – Project & Education Manager
rowan@lumberheritage.org
814-594-7472
The Magical World Of Elk And Cameron Counties Remake Learning Concludes


The Magical World of Elk and Cameron Counties Remake Learning event, held May 1–23, partnered with
several local businesses and organizations across the counties. The magical-themed event brought families into the community for unique activities exploring nature, science, and creativity with a fun twist.
Activities included self-guided quests throughout the communities, Hogwarts Library Potions, the Quidditch Pitch, and Magical Creature Walks. The Wizarding Workshops — single-day events featuring guest speakers and hands-on activities — offered engaging experiences such as counting tree rings during the Magical Tree Quest, making paper airplanes to simulate flying owls at Owl Flight School, dissecting owl pellets during Outstanding Owls, and creating handmade owls at the Owlery. As seen in the photo, “Frankee was excited to get to as many places as possible!”
While we didn’t have Hogsmeade, local businesses provided plenty of magical treats for participants to enjoy. “‘The Magical World’ brought many families out to these events, helping support the community while also showing families the many opportunities available throughout the area,” said Courtney Rieger, event organizer.
The event was sponsored by Remake Learning and the Community Education Center of Elk and Cameron Counties. Special thanks go to the supporting organizations: Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library, Sizerville State Park, Johnsonburg Public Library, Johnsonburg Community Center, Friends of Twin Lakes ANF, Ridgway Public Library, Ridgway YMCA, Rails to Trails–West Creek, St. Marys Public Library, Boys & Girls Club of St. Marys, Keystone Elk Country Alliance, Allegheny Hardwood Utilization Group and Bennett’s Valley Community Center.
We also extend our gratitude to Burke’s Ace Home Center of St. Marys for donating materials for the Remake Learning Magical Creature Walk. Additional thanks to our Bonus Quest businesses: Allegheny Baking Company, Cameron County Nutrition, Creative Cup, Ridgway Wellness and Nutrition, Kay and Rose, Brandy Camp Creamery, St. Marys Nutrition, and Elk Life.
This summer, the Community Education Center Discover Partnership will offer a full lineup of exciting programs at the Makerspace. To learn more and register, visit the CEC Registration Portal at:
https://site.corsizio.com/portal/6968f2db5522fa2ea465ba5f
UPMC Support Staff Honored With BEE Award

Williamsport, Pa., May 27, 2026 – Eight staff members from across UPMC in North Central Pa. were recently recognized with the BEE Award for theiroutstanding support of nursing teams.The BEE Award, meaning Be Extraordinary Every Day, recognizes the care team that supports nursing staff and works closely with them to provide patients with the compassion and care they need.
Brooke Snyder, patient care technician, UPMC Williamsport, was nominated by a co-worker who shared:
“Brooke left work and found a person slumped over in her car in the parking lot. She knocked on the car window and the woman responded and stated that she had taken sleeping medications before she came to the hospital to see her roommate. She had nearly hit the car she parked next to in the parking lot. The woman had a decreased level of consciousness and was disoriented and needed medical intervention. Brooke called for EMS to come assist in the parking lot. EMS was able to load the patient into the ambulance and take her into the Emergency Department for treatment. Brooke is a wonderful tech who always goes above and beyond for patients. This is an excellent example of her caring.”
Answer The Call Summer Camp

Ever wondered what it is really like to be a police officer, firefighter, EMT, or criminal justice professional? This hands-on summer camp introduces campers to the exciting world of public safety and emergency services.
Participants will explore real-life scenarios through interactive activities such as mock crime scene investigations, emergency medical response training, fire safety exercises, teamwork challenges, and leadership development. Campers will learn the basics of criminal justice, law enforcement procedures, emergency medical care, and firefighting techniques – all taught in an age-appropriate, engaging way.
Through guest speakers, simulations, and skill-building exercises, campers will gain confidence, critical thinking skills, and a deeper understanding of how first responders protect and serve their communities. This camp is perfect for students interested in helping others, working under pressure, and exploring future careers in public safety.
To register visit: https://pottercountyedcouncil.org/index.php/course-calendar/jr-sr-high-school-courses/answer-the-call-act-summer-camp or contact PCEC at 814-274-4877.
CFTT Connects Twin Tiers Nonprofits to Regional Giving Through NEPA Gives 2026


Sayre, PA — The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers (CFTT) is proud to once again bring NEPA Gives to the communities it serves throughout Bradford, Potter, Sullivan, and Tioga Counties in Pennsylvania, connecting local nonprofits to one of the region’s largest online giving events.
NEPA Gives 2026 will take place from 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, through 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 5, uniting donors, nonprofits, businesses, and community members for 24 hours of generosity and regional impact.
Through the leadership and partnership efforts of the Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers, organizations within the Twin Tiers region now have the opportunity to participate directly in NEPA Gives, gaining access to regional exposure, new donor connections, prize opportunities, matching funds, and expanded fundraising support.
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert

Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert, 30 years old white/male last seen wearing a red sleeveless shirt, red shorts, and slide-on sandals
DESCRIPTION: At the request of the NYSP Lockport, a New York State Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert has been issued relating to the disappearance of BRADLEY MANGINE; age 30; from LOCKPORT, NY at 10:31 pm on May 27, 2026.
INSTRUCTIONS: Click on the link for further details. www.criminaljustice.ny.gov
Issued By: NYS-DCJS-MPC
McKean County CACMS Is Seeking A Family Advocate

The Children’s Advocacy Center of McKean County (CACMC) is seeking qualified candidates for the Family Advocate position. Reporting to the Director of the Center, the Family Advocate serves as the primary contact for children and non-offending caregivers, providing trauma-informed support, guidance, and resources throughout the investigative and healing process.
In addition to direct services, the Family Advocate contributes to community prevention efforts and maintains the organization’s social media presence to support outreach, education, and awareness.
Additional responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
- Greeting and orientation of children and their families to the CACMC. Explain the CAC process, including forensic interviews, medical exams, and legal proceedings in a clear and compassionate manner.
- Provide crisis intervention, ongoing emotional support, and victim supportive counseling to children and non-offending caregivers.
- Connect families with appropriate community resources and make referrals for follow-up. Maintains regular follow-ups with families to ensure continued support and access to services.
- Keep families informed about the status of criminal proceedings and offer court advocacy, including accompaniment and preparation for legal proceedings when appropriate.
Education and experience qualifications include:
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, criminal justice or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience equal to a minimum of three (3) years working with child victims of abuse.
- A minimum of two (2) years of professional experience working with children and families, preferably in trauma-informed or advocacy settings. The successful candidate must have the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
Interested applicants are invited to apply by completing a McKean County job application and submitting a resume. Please forward to: Michele Jubon, Director of Human Resources, McKean County Courthouse, 500 West Main Street, Smethport, PA 16749 or by emailing to: HR@mckeancountypa.gov. Applicants may also apply online at Indeed.com. We are an equal opportunity employer, M/F/D/V.
Strangulation Arrest In Bradford

On May 26, 2026, at approximately 10:40 pm, City of Bradford Police responded to a report of an adult female victim on Limestone Street who alleged she was assaulted by her boyfriend, at their apartment located at 86 Main Street, Apartment 3D.
The victim reported that the suspect, who was intoxicated, bragged about cheating on her while she packed her belongings to leave. The victim alleged that the suspect grabbed her by the throat, choked her, and pushed her up against a wall, subsequently throwing her to the ground. The victim stated she had trouble breathing during the choking incident.
Officers observed injuries and bruises on the upper right side of her neck area. Based on this information, City Officers located the suspect at his residence and took him into custody for strangulation, simple assault, and harassment.
The suspect was arraigned by Magistrate William Todd and remanded to McKean County Jail on $20,000 cash bail. Preliminary hearings are scheduled in the matter. The City of Bradford Police take crimes of domestic violence seriously, and offenders will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.










