Denise A. Simmons, 64, of 943 Plymouth Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully Thursday, December 25, 2025 at her residence with her sister-in-law, Beth Nissel, by her side. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.
Richard A. Hedlund, 85, of 2470 Hollywood Road, Weedville, passed away at UPMC Mercy Hospital following injuries sustained in an automobile accident.
He was born March 7, 1940, in Ridgway, son of the late Carl and Elna Yort Hedlund. He was a lifelong resident of the area, attended Kersey Schools, and retired from IPM after thirteen years with the company.
Richard is survived by two daughters: Darlene Gontero (Byron) of Weedville and Patricia Rung of Johnsonburg; a son, Jay Hedlund (Melinda) of Weedville; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; eight great-great grandchildren; and three brothers: Wayne Hedlund (Jackie) Dennis Hedlund (Azelea), and Roger Hedlund.
Clearfield, PA – Due to the severity of the winter storm, PennDOT is temporarily reducing the speed limit on several roadways in the region.
PennDOT is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, but those who must head out will see speeds reduced to 45 mph on the following highways:
On roadways with speed restrictions, commercial vehicles not affected by restrictions on these, or other roadways must move to the right lane.
Although PennDOT crews have been treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, and they will not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops and roads are clear.
Clearfield, PA – Due to the severity of the winter storm, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is temporarily prohibiting Commercial Motor Vehicles more than 10,000 pounds in weight from traveling on Route 6 between Port Allegany and Smethport in McKean County to improve safety and avoid lengthy delays along Route 6.
The detour uses Route 155, Route 446, and Route 46. This restriction is being communicated via the variable message boards posted along the detour route and through the DriveWyze app, a mobile tool for professional drivers that offers free safety alerts.
Although PennDOT crews are treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops, the roads are clear, and the conditions warrant lifting the detour.
Clearfield, PA – Due to the severity of the winter storm, PennDOT is temporarily reducing the speed limit on several roadways in the region.
PennDOT is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel, but those who must head out will see speeds reduced to 45 mph on the following highways:
On roadways with speed restrictions, commercial vehicles not affected by restrictions on these, or other roadways must move to the right lane.
Although PennDOT crews have been treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, and they will not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops and roads are clear.
The PA CareerLink Potter County closed early today due to the pending storm and weather conditions. Closed at Noon.
Thank you
Snow, Ice, High Winds, and Bitter Cold Forecast Across Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG – With Pennsylvania and much of the Northeast facing a substantial post-Christmas winter storm – including heavy snow, ice, strong winds, and dangerously cold temperatures – the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is urging residents to prepare now for potential power outages and to take steps to stay safe during severe winter weather.
Residents are also reminded to use caution when traveling near utility crews working to restore service. Slowing down and giving crews plenty of space helps protect workers and the public during storm response efforts.
Darya “Dusty” Randall Byham, 77, of Charles St., St. Marys (formerly of Kane) passed away Tuesday (December 23, 2025) at her residence with her family at her side.
Born June 10, 1948, in Webster, NY, she was the daughter of the late Robert Baylard and Betty Reinisch O’Boyle. On January 29, 1972, she married James Byham (who preceded her in death) at Tabor Lutheran Church in Kane. They met in that same church and went on to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2022.
Dusty graduated from high school in New Canaan, CT. She went on to graduate from Alderson Broaddus University with a Bachelor Degree in Psychology. She spent most of her life as a social worker in both McKean and Elk Counties helping both children and adults. She also worked at the Kane Manor for several years where she had many fond memories working with the community. Dusty later retired from Pinecrest Manor as the Admissions Coordinator. Dusty was a very caring, selfless person. She loved to make other people happy, especially her children and grandchildren. She was beautiful both inside and out. She and Jim were always together. They were truly made for each other. The two of them very much enjoyed the years they lived and raised their children in Kane.
The Community Education Center’s Leadership Elk and Cameron program’s (LEC) monthly session focused on arts & education. The day started at the St. Marys High School with Superintendent Harley Ramsey and Assistant Superintendent Chrissy Kuhar. The participants rotated through 5 activities related to leadership as well as teaching them useful facts about the St Marys Area School District. They also received a tour of the many programs the school has to offer. The class then traveled to the CEC to learn what the CEC has to offer as well as the Dickinson Center, Northern PA Regional College, and IU9. Lunch was sponsored by Northern PA Regional College and provided by Taco Inc.
Patrick James SAWYER, 52, of Wellsville, NY, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer at the Palliative Care Unit at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester.
Born October 30, 1973, in Wellsville, he was the son of James L. and Sandra E. Wright Sawyer.
A 1992 graduate of Wellsville High School, he earned a degree in Computer Information Technology from JCC Cattaraugus Campus in 1994. Patrick was a former Assistant Store Manager at Giant Food Market in Cuba from 1996-2000 and then worked as a Project Manager and Corporate Training Consultant from 2000-2003 at Adelphia Communications and then became an Instructor for Adelphia University until 2006.
URGENT – WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service State College PA
215 PM EST Thu Dec 25 2025
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM NOON FRIDAY TO 7 AM EST SATURDAY…
* WHAT…Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations up to two inches and ice accumulations up to two tenths of an inch.
* WHERE…A portion of central Pennsylvania.
* WHEN…From noon Friday to 7 AM EST Saturday.
* IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning and evening commutes.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
Rita M. Hulings, 81, of St. Marys, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Elk Haven Nursing Home surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born on February 20, 1944 in St. Marys, PA, a daughter of the late Arthur and Helen Rucinski Gerber.
Rita was Catholic by faith and a graduate of Central High School, class of 1961. Together with her late companion, Lenny, Rita and Lenny would often spend time at Howard’s campground where they enjoyed campfires and the great outdoors. When she wasn’t camping, Rita could often be found curled up with a blanket, enjoying a good Lifetime movie. She enjoyed going for rides in the car, and never turned down the chance to enjoy a hamburger from McDonald’s with her granddaughters. Affectionately known as Grammie by all who knew and loved her, Rita will be remembered for her tenacious spirit and spunk. She earned the affections of the aides and staff alike during her time at Elk Haven, and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Drivers urged to watch weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel.
Go to 511PA.com or the 511PA smartphone app for the most up-to-date information on weather impacts and vehicle restrictions.
Harrisburg, PA – Ahead of winter weather expected across Pennsylvania starting Friday morning, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) are planning to implement vehicle restrictions across Pennsylvania’s Interstate network. The agencies are also advising motorists to watch weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel if possible and to exercise caution when driving.
Precipitation is expected to begin as freezing rain in the western portion of the state late Friday morning, with all of Pennsylvania seeing snow or ice by evening. The storm will begin as snow in central PA, turning to sleet and freezing rain. The eastern regions of the state will see more snow, with northeast PA receiving the most: 3 to 6 inches, with up to 8 inches in some areas. After the storm has completely moved through on Saturday morning, temperatures throughout most of the state will remain at or below freezing.
PennDOT and PA Turnpike crews will actively pre-treat roadways where necessary ahead of the storm to help prevent ice from forming a bond with the pavement during the early stages of a storm. However, salt does not resolve all risks, and drivers may encounter icy spots on the roadway. With freezing temperatures, roads that look wet may actually be icy, and extra caution is needed when approaching bridges and highway ramps where ice can form.
Restrictions are planned for certain vehicles during the storm, and will be communicated via variable message boards, the 511PA traveler information website and smartphone apps. Motorists can also sign up for personalized alerts on the website. Restrictions will be lifted as quickly as possible when conditions are safe. Restrictions can be changed based on conditions on the roadways, and reports from first responders, law enforcement and PennDOT personnel.
Winter Storm Watch issued December 24 at 1:19PM EST until December 27 at 10:00AM EST by NWS Binghamton NY
* WHAT…Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow and sleet
accumulations between 4 and 8 inches and ice accumulations around
one tenth of an inch possible.
* WHERE…In New York, Chemung, Schuyler, and Steuben Counties. In
Pennsylvania, Bradford, Luzerne, and Wyoming Counties.
* WHEN…From Friday afternoon through Saturday morning.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions
could impact the Friday evening commute.
INSTRUCTIONS: Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.
Issued By: NWS Binghamton NY
As another year winds down, many of us start thinking about fresh starts and resolutions. But before you jump into planning for the year ahead, now is the perfect time to take stock of your health. A simple year-end review can help you catch potential issues early, stay organized, and enter January feeling prepared and empowered.
1. Review Your Annual Screenings and Preventive Tests
Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to protect long-term health. Take a moment to check whether you’re up to date on age- and risk-appropriate screenings. These often include blood pressure checks, cholesterol panels, diabetes screening, colonoscopy, mammograms, Pap tests, and bone density scans.
If you’re unsure what you need, reach out to your primary care provider, we can help create a personalized schedule based on your age, family history, and health conditions.
2. Make Sure Your Vaccinations Are Current
Raymond L. Eidson, 94, of Bradford, formerly of Pleasantville, passed away Sunday December 21, 2025, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born on September 27, 1931, in Bradford, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Nova (Chapman) Eidson. He was a 1950 graduate of Bradford High School.
On August 26, 1950, he then entered the United States Army, he served in Germany during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged on June 17, 1952.
On April 14, 1951, he married Donna (Woodley) Eidson who preceded him in death on January 9, 2009. On June 19, 2010, he married Audrey (Knight) Shaffer, who died December 27, 2022.
Mary Esther Holmberg, 53, of Coudersport, passed away Friday, December 23, 2025, at her home after an extended illness.
She was born in Coudersport on October 12, 1972, the daughter of the late Jacob Frombach and Naomi (Minor) Frombach of Coudersport. She married Jason C. Holmberg on December 18, 1999, and just celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary.
The McKean County Coroner’s Office is looking for the relatives of a Shinglehouse, PA woman who died at the Bradford Manor, Bradford, PA on December 20th.
Donna L. Castrechino, 75, may have ties to the Rochester, NY area. Anyone with any information can call Michael Mascho, McKean County Coroner at 814-558-9495.
Genesee- Lawrence Michael Skroback “Loving Husband, Father & Grandfather”
Lawrence M. Skroback, 84, of Deer Creek Road formerly of 339 N 8th Street, passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loving wife and family.
Larry was born on October 31, 1941, in Olean, he was the son of Michael and Alice Curtis Skroback. On September 2, 1967, at Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, he married Mary F. Muhitch, who survives.
Larry was a 1959 graduate of Portville Central School. He attended Montana University. Larry worked at various different places including Kodak in Rochester before he returned to Olean and worked at Clark Brothers for a few years. Larry then began working at MOOG, where he worked for over 44 years before retiring on August 31, 2017.
Larry enjoyed dairy farming since he was a boy and tending to his large garden. He was a huge animal lover. Larry was very active in sports. He enjoyed coaching baseball, softball, and basketball. He was also a referee for soccer and basketball for over 20 years in Section 6 and Section 5. Larry was a member of the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels.
This winter figures to be a bit busier in the deer woods, thanks to a mix of hunting seasons, old and new, that kick off soon.
Pennsylvania’s flintlock deer season runs Dec. 26-Jan. 24 in Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) 2B, 5C and 5D and Dec. 26-Jan. 19 in the rest of the state. Archery deer hunting is open Dec. 26-Jan. 24 in WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D and Dec. 26-Jan. 19 everywhere else in the state.
Extended antlerless firearms hunting, meanwhile, also is available Dec. 26-Jan. 24 in WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D, and Jan. 2-19 in WMUs 4A, 4C, 4D and 5A. Extended antlerless hunting is authorized on all Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) properties while in possession of a valid DMAP permit for that property, statewide Dec. 26-Jan. 24.
Finally, hunters with Agricultural Deer Control Permits can take antlerless deer on the properties for which their tags apply through April 15.
Antlerless licenses still remain available for WMU 4A; all other WMUs are sold out. DMAP permits remain available for various properties across Pennsylvania. Hunters can check for those at https://www.pgcapps.pa.gov/Harvest/DMAP.
Enjoying the different opportunities in different places this season might mean adhering to some different requirements.
If the extended season is open within a WMU, a hunter may use a WMU-specific antlerless license to take an antlerless deer within that WMU. If the extended season is not open within a WMU, hunters on DMAP properties need a valid DMAP permit for the property they’re hunting to take part in the season.
Late archery and flintlock hunters can harvest antlerless deer with a valid antlerless license or DMAP permit, or an antlered deer with a valid, unused antlered deer harvest tag. Flintlock hunters can take an antlerless deer with their unused antlered deer harvest tag, as well.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that the man accused of shooting at a vehicle as it was driving away from a residence in Gifford has now been charged with Attempted Criminal Homicide. Matthew LUKE is incarcerated on $1million bail after he was charged by Corporal Sierra Rooke (PSP-Lewis Run) following an emergency dispatch of Troopers to a residence for a report of shots fired on December 6th. LUKE is now charged with Attempted Criminal Homicide, Aggravated Assault, Burglary and other charges. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for next week.
Clifford L. Green, 77, of St. Marys, passed away on Monday, December 22, 2025 at Penn Highlands DuBois following a brief illness.
He was born on October 17, 1948 in St. Marys, a son of the late Arthur and Dorothy Brown Green.
On July 8, 2002, he married the late Patricia Anderson Green, who preceded him in death on January 15, 2012.
Cliff was a lifelong resident of the area and served more than 40 years in the U.S. Army National Guard. He was employed by Motion Control for many years and also worked for some time as a security guard. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Ever the jokester, Cliff enjoyed making others laugh and always had a funny joke to share. One of his favorite things to do was sitting around a campfire with family and friends, enjoying a cold beer and reminiscing.
