(From left to right) Sean Mcnamee, St. Bonaventure University major gifts officer; Melissa DeRose, St. Bonaventure University major gifts officer; Karen Fohl, Mark Wilson, Tar Enterprise LLC director of finance, Marianne Laine, Erin Tarana, Blake Tarana, Southern Tier Tim Hortons owner; Steve Jackson, Olean General Hospital Foundation president.
Two outstanding members of the local community, Marianne Laine and Blake Tarana, were celebrated for their philanthropic contributions at the National Philanthropy Day luncheon in Buffalo on November 14th. The event, hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Western New York (AFP of WNY), recognized individuals and organizations making a profound impact across Western New York. St. Bonaventure University and Olean General Hospital, a Kaleida Health facility, jointly nominated both Laine and Tarana, showcasing their dedication to bettering the community.
“As a committee member for National Philanthropy Day of Western New York, it was a privilege to work with the Olean General Hospital Foundation to nominate and share two stories of generosity and dedication in the southern tier,” said Melissa DeRose, major gifts officer, St. Bonaventure University. “The afternoon celebrated Marianne and Blake and their immeasurable impact; a testament to their unwavering commitment to our area.”
Tranquil M. “Tranny” TIMPONE, 98, of Belfast, NY, died Friday, November 22, 2024 in Olean General Hospital.
Born April 23, 1926, in Hartford, CT, she was the daughter of John and Mildred Galliachio Martell. In 1948, in New York City, she married Robert N. Timpone, who predeceased her on July 26, 1987. A graduate of Queens Forest Hills High School, she was employed as an office administrator by Belfast Central School. Tranny was a member of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church in Belfast.
David S. “Steve” Wilson, Jr., of Arkport, NY, died peacefully at Houghton Rehabilitation and Nursing Center after a 12-year battle with dementia.
Born October 16, 1953, in Geneva, he was the son of Dave and E. Marguerite Hudson Wilson. On August 21, 1976, in Fayette, he married Lisa Beard, who survives. Steve graduated from Romulus Central School in 1973. He retired from Ontario County Solid Waste Management after 21 years. Steve was a lifelong athlete. After retirement, he enjoyed years of golfing and fishing.
The Deane Center for the Performing Arts, a cultural cornerstone of Tioga County, has launched its Annual Appeal Drive, calling on the community and local businesses to join together in ensuring the Center’s continued impact. Donations and sponsorships are needed to support its mission of bringing world-class arts and entertainment to the region and maintaining an accessible, welcoming space for all.
“For over a decade, the Deane Center has been a place where creativity thrives, milestones are celebrated, and the community comes together,” said Amy Welch, Executive Director of the Deane Center. “This year, as we launch our Annual Appeal, we’re asking for your support to keep this vision alive and vibrant. Together, we can ensure this beloved space remains a hub for connection and inspiration.”
Annually, The Deane Center hosts 200+ events that span a variety of purposes, from performances to community gatherings, often offered at no or minimal cost to ensure access for everyone. However, sustaining this level of service requires robust community backing.
Gerald A. Pirrung, Jerry, age 82 died peacefully on September 22, 2024 at his daughter Cathy’s home in Avon Park, Florida. He fought a short but determined struggle against metastatic cancer.
Jerry was born in Bath, NY on June 6, 1942 to his parents Victor and Bertha Pirrung.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Connie, the love of his life of 59 years. He had 4 adult children; Victoria, David, Jeffrey and Catherine. He is also survived by his sister Linda and her husband, Robert Odum, and his brother James and wife, Sharyl.
He was incredibly proud of his 12 grandchildren; Sommer Elizabeth, Alex Kathryn, Renee Sommer, Lilly Leone, Elizabeth Mary, Tyler Morrison, Connor Francis, Cole Joseph, Luke Andrew , Caroline Denise, John Joseph & Francis Michael. His 6 great grandchildren are Luciana, Michael, Eli, James, Kai and Maya.
Jerry was a man of faith who loved his family. He had an incredible work ethic and throughout his life he was a teacher, fuel distributor, auctioneer and farmer. Through his love of sports, he cultivated many friendships while supporting athletes and coaches. Jerry loved to travel experiencing new adventures with his wife, Connie, and especially enjoyed bringing family and friends together for epic beach celebrations. We were fortunate to celebrate “Pop-Popalooza” to honor his 80th birthday at Carolina Beach.
Richard B. “Dick” Straub, 86, of Grandview Road, St. Marys, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at Penn Highlands Jefferson Manor, following a brief illness.
He was born on July 6, 1938 in St. Marys, a son of the late Frank and Marguerite Bender Straub.
On September 9, 1961, at Queen of the World Church, he married the late Catherine “Kitty” Conroy Straub, who preceded him in death on August 11, 2016. Together they were blessed with more than 54 years of love and marriage.
Senator Tom O’Mara’s recent critique of New York’s Clean Slate Act misrepresents its scope, intent, and societal benefits.
He claims the law indiscriminately expunges millions of criminal records, including violent crimes such as manslaughter and kidnapping, which is false. The law explicitly excludes Class A felonies and sex offenses from expungement and imposes strict eligibility criteria: misdemeanors are sealed after three years and felonies after eight, contingent on the individual completing their sentence and remaining crime-free. Moreover, records are sealed, not erased, ensuring law enforcement and courts retain access for public safety (New York Senate, 2023).
O’Mara overlooks significant benefits of expungement laws. Research consistently shows that sealing records reduces recidivism by increasing employment opportunities and promoting housing stability (Prescott & Starr, 2019). These outcomes enhance public safety and support rehabilitated individuals in reintegrating into society.
Concerns about employer and public safety are overstated. Sensitive industries, such as childcare or elder care, require fingerprint-based background checks, which remain unaffected by the Clean Slate Act (New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services, 2023). The law also leaves victim rights and restitution processes intact, contrary to claims that it disregards crime victims.
Rather than engaging with the data-backed benefits of reforms like Clean Slate, O’Mara perpetuates fear-based narratives, calling it a “pro-criminal” policy. However, the law aims to correct systemic inequities and provide second chances to individuals who have paid their debt to society. This balanced approach fosters safer communities and promotes justice through rehabilitation, not perpetual punishment.
Jackie Wilson, Representative 2024 – 2026
Alfred, NY District 2
Allegany County Democratic Committee
References:
New York Senate. (2023). S211A, Clean Slate Act. Retrieved from https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S211A
New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services. (2023). Background check requirements for sensitive industries. Retrieved from https://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/
Prescott, J. J., & Starr, S. B. (2019). Expungement of criminal records: An empirical study. University of Michigan Law School. Retrieved from https://repository.law.umich.edu/
William R “Bill” Barnett, 83, of Port Allegany, passed away on Sunday (November 24, 2024) at his home surrounded by his family
He was born March 10, 1941 in Coudersport, the son of Robert and Edith (Rumiano) Barnett. On November 23, 1963 in St. Gabriel’s Church In Port Allegany, he married Norma “Sue” G. Manning, who survives.
Mr. Barnett was a graduate of Port Allegany High School class of 1959. After graduation he went to work for Ball Incon where he was a member of the job change crew and machine repair crew. Bill retired in 2001 after 42 years of service.
Carolyn Kay Dille, 93, of Smethport, passed away Saturday (November 23, 2024) at Lakeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Smethport, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born September 16, 1931 in East Smethport, the daughter of Howard A. and Margaret A. (Penn) Wright. On April 19, 1974, in the United Methodist Church of Smethport, she married Garvin A. Dille, who died April 25, 2018.
Kay was a graduate of Smethport High School and attended West Brook Academy. She was employed at the Smethport Highway Sheds/Barns, the McKean County Courthouse, and lastly as a book keeper at the Guidance Center in Smethport, PA.
She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary of Bucktail Post #138 of Smethport. Kay enjoyed spending time with her family. She will always be remembered as a loving wife, mother, step mother, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother.
Pictured are Brenda Sawyer of Brenda Sawyer Art; Kimball Nelson of Howard Hannah Professionals and Ed Vicic of Eddie’s on Main, hosts of the event.
A community fund raising event will be held Saturday, November 30 from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 1st from noon – 4 p.m. at Eddie’s on Main located at 212 North Main Street in Port Allegany to benefit the Pastor Randy Headley Memorial Award for (Youth) Community Service. There will be raffles, food, shopping and fun showcasing God’s Country Creamery Cheese, Little Mountain Winery, locally crafted wooden photo frames, Card Creek Bakery Artisan breads and desserts, Out of the Lane Aprons by bkh, Brenda Sawyer Art, Ambeaulynn Hand Stamped Jewelry, Repurposed Sweater Mittens, PA Plants Succulent Planters, Otto-Eldred FFA grown poinsettias, local honey and maple syrup products, Eddie’s on Main Sweet Treats, Charcuterie Boxes and more holiday gift ideas. There will also be a holiday luncheon menu.
Pastor Randy Headley served in the U.S. Marines and worked in sales before entering the ministry in 1991. He served United Mehodist Churches in Shinglehouse, Ceres, Trinity (now Port Allegany UMC), Port Allegany Evangelical UMC (now closed) Crosby, Riverside and Fishing Creek, all in the Kane District of the UMC.
Shoppers have Black Friday. But for Pennsylvania hunters, the real action starts one day later, on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, when the statewide firearms deer season begins.
No other single point of the hunting calendar draws as much participation.
Opening day, which falls on Nov. 30 this year, will put more than half a million hunters in the woods, all looking to bring home healthy venison to fill their freezers. It’s about more than just that, though. For many families – those who hunt from camps and those who hunt closer to home – the deer opener is an event, a chance to bring together family and friends and make memories centered on the outdoors that will be retold for generations.
“Growing up, I looked forward to the first day of deer season all year,” said Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith. “I’m hardly alone that way. For many of us, hunting, and deer hunting in particular, isn’t just a hobby. It’s a part of the fabric of our lives.
Maxine Ruth McFall, 87, of Turtlepoint, passed away peacefully on Saturday (November 23, 2024) at her home in Turtlepoint, with her family by her side.
She was born September 4, 1937 in Smethport, the daughter of Gerald and Leilla (Daily) Slade. She married Gerald A. McFall, who preceded her in death.
Maxine attended Smethport Area High School. She had been employed by Ethan Allen, Canoe Place Inn, the Robins Nest, & retired from the Daily Bread Cafe in 2013.
ATTENTION: The township office will be closed all week this week. If you have an emergency you may call the office at 814-544-7549 and leave a message. Thank you
It is with heartfelt reverence and gratitude that we announce an important change to our Lodge’s name. The William Hanley Sr., Lodge No. 67 will now be known as the Shade-Hanley Lodge No. 67, honoring both our esteemed founding benefactor, William Hanley Sr., and our beloved past president, Bradford Township Police Lieutenant Jeffrey Shade.
Lieutenant Shade tragically passed away in the line of duty on August 4, 2023, while serving the Bradford community with courage and dedication. His leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of law enforcement left an indelible mark on our Lodge and our community. This name change is a lasting tribute to his legacy and the profound impact he had on all of us.
As we embrace this meaningful transition, the Shade-Hanley Lodge No. 67 remains steadfast in our mission to support our members, strengthen our community, and honor those who serve and sacrifice for the greater good. Your unwavering support—whether as individuals, organizations, or silent champions of law enforcement and our Lodge—makes this work possible and impactful.
We would like to extend a special thank you to the greater Bradford, PA community for standing by our Lodge and its officers over the years. Your dedication has been a cornerstone of our success. To our unnamed supporters whose quiet contributions sustain us, please know your efforts are deeply valued and appreciated.
Businesses and organizations in Cameron County preparing for the holiday season. The season begins with the arrival of the Christmas tree in the town square. The tree has been donated by the Erik and Marilyn Erickson. Smoker Logging will cut and transport the tree Thanksgiving weekend. In addition a second tree donated by Chris and Randy Andrews will be installed on West Fourth Street near the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce new location.
During Shop Small Saturday November 30, a drawing will be held to give away $100 worth of lottery tickets. It benefits the Cameron County Royalty. The tickets can be purchased now at $5.00 each at the chamber office. Beginning November 30, shoppers can pick up the C&N Bank Shop Small punch card and after spending $100 at local businesses the card can be turned into the chamber office for a drawing to be held during Christmas in the Wilds December 7. This gives shoppers one week to fill as many cards as possible. The prizes are 1 $100 winner, 3 $50 winners 2 $25 winners. The Cameron County High School Quarterback Club is raising funds from a basket raffle. Tickets will be available November 25 through December 7 at the chamber office. All Christmas Time at Sarah Jane’s will open its doors for snuggling with furry animals. The theme of A Christmas Time will be woodland animals. Sarah Daley will have painting classes every Friday night.
The month of December kicks off with a used book sale at Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library December 3-7. The Christmas Parade and tree lighting take place in downtown Emporium on Friday night December 6. The highlight is the arrival of Santa who will then throw the switch to light the tree. The Christmas Benefit committee will have basket tickets available at the Emporium Volunteer Fire Department starting at 4pm.
Saturday morning Santa arrives with his reindeer. The reindeer will relax on North Wood Street between Twisted Sisters and Mountain Laurel Federal Credit Union. The Emporium Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary will host breakfast with Santa from 9am to 11am. Santa will then travel to A Christmas Time which is hosted by Sarah Daley at her studio at 5 East Fourth Street. Families and teens can pick up the selfie scavenger hunt list from businesses in the county. There are 20 items to find at decorated homes or businesses. Downtown Emporium vendors will sell items from 9am-1pm. The CCHS Quarterback Club will have its basket drawing at 1pm and the winners of the C&N Bank Shop Small punch card will be announced at 2pm. The Christmas Community Dance will be held Saturday night at the Emporium Volunteer Fire Department.
A Christmas Time will continue to host events during the month of December. Santa will be greeting children and accepting their letters on Saturday 14 and 21 from noon-2pm. On Sunday December 8 an elf will be on hand to read stories from 2pm-3pm. December 15 pets are invited to spend time with Santa. A photographer will be on hand and the price is $10.00 Throughout the month paint and sips will be offered and the venue is open for holiday gatherings.
The selfie Christmas scavenger hunt continues throughout the month of December. Participants are to share the pictures on the Facebook group Christmas in Cameron County. A random drawing will take place New Years Day with prizes awarded. Brochures outlining the events are available at various businesses in the county.
Saturday morning four people threw frozen turkey breasts at bowling pins at the Emporium Food Market. It is an annual tradition at the grocery store started by owner, Scott McCann. The winner Issaac Weber, then spent time filling a cart for his Thanksgiving Day dinner. The other bowlers, Vanessa Bidwell, Lucie Copp and Barb Palumbo all received gift cards to the store.
Six bakers brought pumpkin, apple or banana bread to the store. A panel of judges including McCann, his son, Wyatt and last years’ pie winner Joe Pleak spent 30 minutes taste testing. The winners included Jenn Austin, Jean Tesauro and Jill Perry. All participants received gift cards to the store.
Job Announcement: Outreach and Communications Advisor
The Potter County Conservation District is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Outreach and Communications Advisor. The position will be full-time (37.5 hours/week) with a probationary period of six months. The purpose of this position is to oversee the general planning, development, and direction of all communications of the District. Coordinate programs, social media, news releases, and other forms or publication to build and sustain a positive image of the District in the public. The qualified applicant must have a high school diploma or equivalent, be able to obtain required clearances, and a valid driver’s license. Candidates are preferred to have a degree in an Environmental Field (Biology, Environmental Science, Ecology, etc.), Communications, Public Relations, or another related field. The position involves extensive contact, both by phone and in person, with a variety of District customers and partners. The person in this position must have excellent communication skills, a pleasant disposition, be courteous, and detail oriented. Tasks will be assigned and supervised by the District Manager per program needs.
The salary will be commensurate with experience. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, age, sex, ancestry or
national origin.
Contact the Potter County Conservation District for an employment application and full job description at 814-320-4012, or at j.childs@pottercd.com
Deadline for cover letter, application, and resume is November 30th, 2024. Please send a cover letter, application, and resume to:
PCCD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the PCCD will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Week four Rotary visitors were Cole Moore and Lily Madison. Lily is the daughter of Pastor J.T. and Carri Madison. Her school activities include being a member of the soccer team, track and field team, Marching Band, Drama Club, Concert Band, Concert Choir, Chamber Singers,Jazz Band, Peer Helpers and Enrichment. She has received a certificate of Merit from the state of PA, Frederick Couglass and Susan B. Anthony Award for Social Sciences from the University of Rochester and the Pastor Randy Headley Memorial Award for Community Service. Lily plans to attend a 4-year college for a pre-medicine degree and go to medical school to become a physician. She would like to join Doctors Without Borders. Cole is the son of Ronald Moore, Jr. and Rebecca brodhun. His grandparents are Ronald Moore, Sr, and Lorna Moore. He has three sisters and two brothers. He wrestled throughout his grade school. He is in the Automotive class at the Career and Technical Center. Cole went to work at age 14 and hasn’t done sports since that time. His plans are to go to Alfred State for Automotive Mechanics.
Lily was introduced to the club by Susan Flint. Anna Fair introduced Cole. Protarm of the day was Rod and Ruth Johnson with their Search and Rescue dogs.
Dr. Peder J. HANCHER, DDS, 84, of Wellsville, NY passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 21, 2024 in his home surrounded by his loving family.
He had suffered from Frontotemporal Dementia for the last four years. Born October 9, 1940 in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of James Herman and Eveleth Pedersen Hancher. A graduate of Holland Central School, he received his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Union College and his DDS from University of Buffalo.
