“A Way Out” Thanks the Community for Their Support
April 2025
Francis E. “King” O’Connell, 93, formerly of Big Shanty Road. Lewis Run
Francis E. “King” O’Connell, 93, formerly of Big Shanty Road. Lewis Run, passed away, Wednesday April 30, 2025, at UPMC Hamot in Erie.
Born December 8, 1931, in Riterville, he was a son of the late Matthew V. and Ruth E. (Black) O’Connell. He was a 1949 graduate of Bradford High School.
On June 27, 1952, in Mt. Jewett, he married Patricia A. (Bonini) O’Connell who preceded him in death on June 16, 2010.
Jack R. Crum, 86, of Aiken
Jack R. Crum, 86, of Aiken, passed away Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Olean General Hospital.
Born on November 4, 1938, in Bradford, he was a son of the late George J. and Mildred (Burgess) Crum. He was a 1958 graduate of Bradford Area High School.
Jack enlisted in the United States Air Force on December 14, 1961 and served until his honorable discharge on December 13, 1965.
PUC Working Closely with Utilities and State Agencies to Ensure Restoration of Power Across Pennsylvania
PUC Reminds Residents: Safety First, Especially Around Downed Wires, Generators, and Storm Cleanup
HARRISBURG – Following a powerful and fast-moving storm system that swept across much of Pennsylvania, causing widespread damage to electric utility infrastructure, roadways, and telecommunications networks, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is urging residents to remain alert, informed, and cautious during the ongoing recovery process.
PennDOT – District 3 News
Maintenance Project This Weekend on Route 61 and I-80 in Northumberland and Union Counties
Montoursville – Motorists in Northumberland and Union counties are advised a Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) contractor will be working along Route 61 and Interstate 80 this weekend.
On Saturday, May 3, 2025 and Sunday, May 4, 2025, the contractor, Chase Enterprises, will be applying herbicide along roadways in the following locations:
PennDOT – District 3 News
Pipe Replacement Tomorrow on County Line Drive in Cooper Township, Montour County
Montoursville, PA – Motorists are advised of single lane conditions tomorrow on County Line Drive (Route 2017) in Cooper Township, Montour County, for a pipe replacement.
On Thursday, May 1, 2025, a Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) maintenance crew will perform a pipe replacement on County Line Drive between Ridge Drive (Route 2006) and Mount Zion Road. Motorists can expect single lane conditions with flagging where work is being performed. Work will be performed between the hours of 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM, weather permitting.
Motorists should be alert, slow down, expect delays in travel, and drive with caution.
Port Allegany High School Prom Court
The Junior Class at Port Allegany High School has announced the 2025 Prom Court as follows: (pictured, left to right) Juuso Young, Lily Madison, Austin Hamilton, Emily Errick, Sophia Behringer, Jacob Causer, Ella Moses, Mason Gordon, Willow Sauers and Tyler Fillhart. The theme for this year’s prom is The Great Gatsby and will be held from 7-10 p.m. on Saturday, May 3rd at Four Sisters. The court will be introduced beginning at 7:15 followed by the crowning of the King and Queen. The public is invited to attend and are welcome to stay until the crowning ceremony is completed. Music will be provided by Fly Guy. The prom, a gift from the junior class to the seniors, is organized by the Prom Committee led by advisor Mindy Bernardi.
PITT-BRADFORD PLANS SUMMER CAMPS
BRADFORD, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford will offer seven athletic and scholastic camps this summer for youth ages 7 to 17.
This summer’s slate of camps will begin in mid-May and end in August and provide a variety of unique experiences. There is a cost and an enrollment cap for each camp. Grades mentioned for each camp are for students entering those grades. For additional details and to register, visit www.upb.pitt.edu/summer or contact Conference and Events Services at 814-362-5053 or campsUPB@pitt.edu.
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert
HEADLINE: Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert, 78 years old white/female. Look for A White 2020 FORD EDGE WITH NY REGISTRATION KHG-1680
DESCRIPTION: At the request of the Batavia City Police Department, a New York State Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert has been issued relating to the disappearance of SANDRA DICKES; age 78; from BATAVIA, NY at 07:06 pm on April 30, 2025.
INSTRUCTIONS: Click on the link for further details. www.criminaljustice.ny.gov
Issued By: NYS-DCJS-MPC
Penn College Baseball, Softball Look to Playoffs
Pennsylvania College of Technology baseball and softball teams both are seeded fourth and will be playing at home going into their United East Conference playoff games on Friday in the best-of-three series.
The baseball team (11-5 UE and 18-16 overall) will host fifth-seeded Cairn University (11-5, 24-14) at Bowman Field starting at 1 p.m. on Friday, with an “if needed” game starting at noon on Saturday.
IU9 Band
Kristina Houghtaling – flute, Emilee-Rea Yeager – flute, Ella Amell – clarinet, Kyra Tankersley – clarinet, Jonah McKeirnan – clarinet, Dana Clark – trumpet, Brody O’Rourke – trumpet, Steven Alcock – trumpet, Delany Stromberg – tuba, and Holden Nance – percussion represented Port Allegany in the Junior High IU9 Band hosted by Smethport Area High School on Friday, April 25. The guest conductor for the junior high was Connie Sommers, a graduate from Smethport and now teaches in Ashtabula, OH. Pictured are Ella Amell, Delaney Stromberg Emilee-Rae Yeager.
Kaitlyn Kallenborn – flute, Olivia Lily – flute, Kaydence Beaver – clarinet, Raelin Meacham – clarinet, Leila Stuckey – clarinet, Savannah Hart – trumpet, Alayna Palmer – trumpet, Madison Fillhart – trumpet, Bryce Fessenden – trumpet, Aidan Clark – euphonium, Trace Kazimer – percussion, and Connor Briggs – percussion represented Port Allegany in the Senior High IU9 Band Festival hosted by Smethport Area High School on Friday, April 25. The guest conductor for the senior high was Dr. Jonathan Schaller, a graduate from Smethport and now teaches at the Crane School of Music at State University of New York Potsdam. Pictured: (left to right) Leila Stuckey, Connor Briggs, Olivia Lily, Raelin Meacham. Trace Kazimer, Aidan Clark and Kaydence Beaver.
Port Allegany High School Special Olympics Team
The Port Allegany High School Special Olympics team stopped for a moment before boarding the bus to have their pictures taken. The students traveled to Bradford to participate in the McKean County Special Olympics. The team is pictured (front row, left to right) Heather Stcknick, Heaven Hughes, Brie Gustafson, Kris Beeson; (row 2) Breanna Mitchell, Malena Magoon, Judy Campbell; (back row) Elizabeth Valentine, Victor Link, Marcus Skinner, Abbey Johnson-Ernst, Daniel Link, Kathleen Bostjancic and Milla Senna.
Jazz & Java Monday, May 5 at 8 p.m.
The Port Allegany Music Department will present Jazz & Java Monday, May 5 at 8 p.m. in the high school auditorium. The concert will feature the Port Allegany Senior High and Junior High Jazz Bands. Light refreshments will be served by the Port Allegany Music Boosters following the concert. There are no tickets for this event, but donations will be accepted at the door. Pictured are members of the Junior High Jazz band at a recent after school rehearsal.
Kardinal Estate & Tag-Sale Company 3 Day Sale In Kane
3 Day Estate Sale!
May 2 to 4, Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, and Sunday 9am to 1pm
519 N. Elk Ave. Kane, PA (From Route 6 turn into Poplar St. and follow to right onto Elk Ave.)
Live edge furniture, freezer, beds, dressers, couch, recliner, power tools, hand-tools, clothes, collectibles , Simplicity lawn mower, woodworking tools, pressure washer, hunting items, fishing items, boat w/ trailer and motor, hutch, cast iron, TVs, canoe, kitchen items, and much more.
Do not block driveways or park on lawns.
MEDIA ADVISORY: TOMORROW – PennDOT Secretary Carroll to Hold Virtual REAL ID Update
Harrisburg, PA – Tomorrow, PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll will hold a virtual media update on REAL ID, part of a series of virtual updates to be held regularly in the weeks leading up to the start of federal enforcement on May 7. The updates will be streamed live on PACast and the PennDOT Facebook page. A PACast with audio and video will also be available after the event.
The media is invited to email questions for the Secretary to address at the briefing. Questions should be emailed to dotcomm@pa.gov by 8:30 AM on Thursday, May 1.
WHO: PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll
WHEN: Thursday, May 1 at 10:00 AM
PUBLIC LIVESTREAMS:
pacast.com/live/penndot
Facebook.com/PennsylvaniaDepartmentofTransportation
This is an Important Message from NY Alert
HEADLINE: Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert, 65 years old white/male with blue eyes, white hair, white/gray beard 4-5 inches in length
DESCRIPTION: At the request of the Hamburg Town Police Department, a New York State Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert has been issued relating to the disappearance of JAMES REAHR; age 65; from HAMBURG, NY at 06:02 pm on April 30, 2025.
INSTRUCTIONS: Click on the link for further details. www.criminaljustice.ny.gov
Issued By: NYS-DCJS-MPC
Edmund P. Ambuski, 71, of 118 Swede Street, Dagus Mines, PA
Edmund P. Ambuski, 71, of 118 Swede Street, Dagus Mines, PA, passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 following a brief illness. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Krise Family Funeral Homes. www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com
Port Allegany Rotary Club Donates Dictionaries
The Port Allegany Rotary Club recently presented Webster Dictionaries to third grade students in both the Otto-Eldred and Port Allegany school districts as part of their annual Dictionary Project. As they have done for many years, the local Rotary Club purchases dictionaries to distribute to local school districts. The Rotary Dictionary Project is a nationwide effort to provide young students with their own personal dictionary. Also presenting dictionaries, but not pictured, is Rotarian Pam Fischer.
More Pictures Below
Rebecca A. Webster, 68, of Scio
Rebecca A. Webster, 68, of Scio, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Olean General Hospital family by her side. She was born on February 12, 1957, in Olean, the daughter of the late Gordon and Jean (Keesler) Eck. On September 17, 1977, in Scio, she married George Webster, who survives.
Becky was a graduate of Richburg High School. Upon graduating, she joined the workforce and was employed by several local organizations, such as: Friendship Dairies, McDonalds, and Scio Central School for many years. Outside of work, she enjoyed playing bingo, fishing, hunting, playing cards, going to the casino, dancing, and camping.
Leonard D. ORDWAY, 68, of Whitesville, NY
Leonard D. ORDWAY, 68, of Whitesville, NY, died Saturday, April 26, 2025 in his home.
Born June 9, 1956, in Wellsville, he was the son of Leon J. and Ethel M. Tracy Ordway. On June 16, 1975, in Scio, he married the former Karen M. Ryan, who survives. A graduate of Whitesville Central School, he and his wife owned and operated Herbert Cooper Co. in Genesee, PA. He loved music and playing guitar. Leonard played in several area bands, beginning with the Knight Riders. His Gibson J45 and 1963 Fender reissue custom shop telecaster were prized possessions. He babied his classic Mustang and immensely enjoyed his Ford F-150 truck. Leonard was especially generous and always willing to lend a helping hand. A man of integrity, he strived to be just and fair. He loved his family and adored his grandchildren.
Richard A. SURDAM, 70, of Galeton, PA
Richard A. SURDAM, 70, of Galeton, PA, died Thursday, April 24, 2025 in UPMC Soldiers & Sailors, Wellsboro.
Born September 14, 1954, in Galeton, he was the son of Lee G. and Margaret M. Steadman Surdam. A graduate of Galeton Area High School, he served honorably with the U.S. Army from 1973 – 1975. Richard was a self-employed contractor.
Kathleen Jo SMOKER, 65, of Gold, PA
Kathleen Jo SMOKER, 65, of Gold, PA, died Friday, April 25, 2025 in her home.
Born September 15, 1959, in Elmira, NY, she was the daughter of Love S. and Beverly J. Reynolds Hess. On March 25, 1978, in Mills Union Church, she married David C. Smoker, who survives. A 1977 graduate of Northern Potter High School, she was employed by Chase Oil Co. in Ulysses from 1978 – 1998. Kathy served as bookkeeper for Penn-York Camp for over eight years. She and her husband owned and operated Smoker Excavating, Inc. Kathy liked to spend her time in her kitchen making food for her family and for people going through a hard time. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, and going to the deer park with her grandkids.
Joyce Marie KENYON, nee Lockwood, 65, of Olean, NY
Joyce Marie KENYON, nee Lockwood, 65, of Olean, NY, passed away on April 28, 2025 with family members in Alfred Station, NY after a long illness.
Joyce was born on November 2, 1959, in Cuba, NY. She attended Franklinville School. In 1976, he married Randy W. Kenyon (subsequently divorced), and they had seven children together. She was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother. She spent much of her life as a dedicated nurse and truly loved caring for others. She enjoyed gardening, sewing and quilting, cooking, and crafts, and found joy in family and the blessings in everyday life. Joyce’s life was built upon a foundation of strength, kindness, compassion, and faith. She was a beautiful soul who is remembered for her kindness, grace, and ability to smile through adversity.
Angela M. “Julie” DOUGLAS, 98, of Horseheads, NY
Angela M. “Julie” DOUGLAS, 98, of Horseheads, NY, died Monday, December 16, 2024 in Guthrie Corning Hospital.
Born May 7, 1926, in Galeton, PA, she was the daughter of Antonio and Nancy C. Lollo Messino. She was married to Gordon L. Douglas, who predeceased her on December 24, 1999. A graduate of Galeton High School, she was employed by JC Penney in sales and as a buyer. At Penney’s, she brightened the men’s department with her sparkling personality and sometimes snarky sense of humor.
She was well-respected by her co-workers. Angela lived life enjoying a good laugh with humor and a cheerful disposition, drawing many friends. She had an amazing fashion sense and style. She was always dressed elegantly with a little bit of bling. Her free time was filled with reading, ceramics, and watching soap operas. Family was the center of her life. It was evident how much she loved her children and grandchildren by how much she talked about them.
Arlene S. RISSER, 88, of Ellisburg, PA
Arlene S. RISSER, 88, of Ellisburg, PA, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in her home. Born May 22, 1936, in Conewago Township, Dauphin County, she was the daughter of Sylvan and Martha Shireman Myers. On December 6, 1958, in Cleona Brethren in Christ Church, she married Titus C. Risser, who predeceased her on September 13, 2017.
Arlene and her husband owned and operated a dairy farm in Ellisburg for many years. A graduate of Hershey High School, she earned her nursing degree from Lancaster General Hospital School of Nursing. She was employed as a Registered Nurse by Hewitt Manor in Shinglehouse, Highland Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Wellsville,and Helpmates. Arlene was a member of the Ellisburg Union Wesleyan Church, Ellisburg Community Club, and the Ulysses Senior Center.
Surviving are: four sons, Kevin (Martha) Risser of Coudersport, Kenneth (Lori) Risser of Ulysses, Fred (Connie) Risser of Andrews Settlement, and David (Nelsa) Risser of Ellisburg; 12 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by five siblings, Florence Whisler, Franklin Myers, Clarence Myers, Herman Myers, and Margaret Ginder.
Friends may call Wednesday, April 30, 2025 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Ellisburg Union Wesleyan Church, 2005 Ellisburg Rd., Genesee, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Rev. Roy Ward will officiate. ASCDFX
Burial will be in Genesee Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Genesee Volunteer Ambulance, P.O. Box 9, Genesee, PA 16923 or Ellisburg Union Wesleyan Church, 1020 Rag Hill Rd., Genesee, PA 16923. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Potter County Artisan Co-op Up-coming Events and Classes
- The Potter County Artisan Co-op will host the Annual Student Art Show from May 3 – May 17. Stop in to see art created by the local school students from Potter County Schools. To open the event, the Co-op will host a reception and a hands-on creative project for attendees as part of The Remake Learning Days on May 3 from 1-3pm. Treats and crafts available for all during this time to celebrate the beginning of the student art show.