September 2026

BRADFORD – Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) issued the following statement in response to Kaledia Health’s announcement it will move forward with plans to close The Pavilion nursing facility after failed negotiations with LECOM Health:

“Kaleida Health strikes again!

“Kaleida Health announced today the closure of The Pavilion at Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC). In its statement, officials claim they made every effort to find an alternative to the closure. But facts matter, and unfortunately the executives at Kaleida are continuing their long history of hiding the truth and refusing to work with our community.

“Here are the facts: After months of discussion and negotiations, Kaleida Health failed to negotiate in good faith. At a recent meeting with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Kaleida Health notified LECOM they now refuse to the sell the building to them. They alternatively stated that they might lease the building, but LECOM would have to accept a noncompete agreement in perpetuity. This would effectively ensure that BRMC would never again operate as a hospital.

“That is what this has always been about – Kaleida Health doesn’t want to provide hospital services in Bradford, and they are 100% focused on preventing any other healthcare system from providing the care our citizens need and deserve.

“Kaleida Health and Olean General Hospital are benefiting to the tune of millions of dollars because there is no hospital in Bradford. I strongly believe this is a violation of antitrust, and I have called on the PA attorney general to investigate Kaleida for such.

“We all deserve better. We need a respected healthcare system we can work with to provide care here. Community leaders continue to meet and are exploring alternatives that would provide real care for the Bradford community, including the possibility of an outpatient emergency department or the construction of a micro-hospital. We are not done fighting.”

BRADFORD, PA — Kaleida Health has resumed the closure plan that was submitted in February for The Pavilion, the long-term care facility, at the former Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC).

On February 16, The Pavilion submitted a formal closure notice for its long-term care services to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PADOH) due to ongoing and escalating pressures which made the continued operation of The Pavilion financially unsustainable. A copy of the closure plan was shared with the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General at that time. The notice was accepted and approved by the PADOH, with an original anticipated closure date of May 2.

On February 25, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and Kaleida Health began discussions regarding the potential acquisition by LECOM of the former BRMC campus, including The Pavilion. Kaleida Health temporarily paused the closure plan while the organizations explored whether an agreement could provide a sustainable path forward for the campus and the Bradford community.

Those discussions continued over the following months. On September 8, the LECOM Board of Directors met and voted not to move forward with the transaction. On September 9, Kaleida Health was made aware of the decision. Discussions between the organizations have concluded and LECOM will not be acquiring The Pavilion.

As a result, Kaleida Health will resume the closure plan for The Pavilion that was originally submitted to PADOH in February. The plan was resubmitted and accepted to PADOH on September 14, with an anticipated closure date on or before December 1.

“We understand how deeply personal this is for our residents, their families and our employees,” said Don Boyd, CEO, Kaleida Health. “For many residents, The Pavilion is their home. For our employees, it is a place where they have cared for people they know and love. We recognize that a transition like this brings uncertainty, concern and emotion, and we will do everything we can to support those who are affected.”

The Pavilion is more than a long-term care facility. It is a home for residents and a place where dedicated employees have built relationships with residents and their families while providing care, comfort, hope and championship. Kaleida Health understands the significance of this decision and the uncertainty it creates, and we are committed to approaching the transition with compassion and respect.

Throughout the discussions with LECOM, Kaleida Health remained committed to finding an agreement that would be an alternative to closure, consistent with the charitable mission of both organizations and, most importantly, serve the long-term care needs of the community.

The Pavilion currently serves 45 residents. Kaleida Health’s highest priority throughout this transition will be the health, safety and well-being of every resident. The Pavilion team will work closely with residents and their families to provide information, answer questions and help identify appropriate alternative care settings. There are currently two other long-term care facilities in Bradford and six additional facilities in the surrounding area.

“We know that moving from a place you have called home is emotional,” said Boyd. “Our responsibility is to make sure every resident and family receives the individualized attention, compassion, respect and support they deserve throughout this process. We will take the time necessary to help make this transition as thoughtful and supportive as possible.”

The Pavilion’s employees have played an important role in caring for residents and supporting their families. Kaleida Health is committed to supporting the 80 employees affected by the closure and will work directly with them to identify employment opportunities within Kaleida Health, including Olean General Hospital.

Kaleida Health will continue to communicate with residents, families, employees, providers and the community as additional details regarding the transition become available.

Part-time Autism Support Paraprofessional/Classroom Aide position available
5.75 hrs./day with 1/2 hr. duty-free lunch

Possible up to 29 hours per week
Requirement: High school diploma or GED

Job Requirements Notice

Candidates selected for employment will be required to successfully complete the following pre-employment requirements before their start date:

• New clearances/background checks
• Health physical examination
• Tuberculosis (TB) test
• Pre-employment drug screening

Employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of all required screenings and clearances.

Direct questions to:
Julia Anderson
Seneca Highlands IU9
119 South Mechanic Street
Smethport, PA 16749
(814) 887-5512

EOE

The Coudersport Area School District is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Central Office Assistant.  The position is a 260-day salaried position with insurance and other benefits.  Accounting experience preferred but not required.

Interested applicants should send a complete application package, including a letter of interest, application, resume´, and Act 24, 31, 34, 151, and 168 clearances to the Office of the Superintendent, CASD, 698 Dwight Street, Coudersport, PA  16915 by October 2, 2026.

The Children’s Advocacy Center of McKean County (CACMC) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Forensic Interviewer. The Forensic Interviewer conducts high-quality, developmentally appropriate forensic interviews with children and teens who are suspected victims of abuse. The position works closely with law enforcement, Child Protective Services, prosecutors, and other members of the multidisciplinary team to support the investigation and protection of children.

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Conduct objective, child-friendly, culturally sensitive forensic interviews.
• Schedule interviews and accurately document interview results.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, CPS, prosecutors, and victim advocacy professionals.
• Communicate interview findings clearly in multidisciplinary and legal settings.
• Provide court testimony and documentation when required.
• Follow CACMC, National Children’s Alliance, and multidisciplinary team standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree plus 2 years of experience interviewing children from abusive or dysfunctional environments; or
• Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience.
• At least 2 years of professional experience working with children and families where abuse or violence is an issue.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience with criminal justice, child welfare, or forensic interviewing is preferred.

Interested applicants are invited to apply by completing a McKean County job application and submitting a resume.  Please forward to:  McKean County Human Resources, 500 West Main Street, Smethport, PA 16749 or by email to: HR@mckeancountypa.gov. Applicants may also apply online at Indeed.com. We are an equal opportunity employer, M/F/D/V.

BRADFORD, Pa. —The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford will welcome back alumnus and award-winning Civil War historian Dr. Christopher Mackowski for an Authors’ Series presentation at noon Wednesday, Sept. 23, in the Mukaiyama University Room of the Frame-Westerberg Commons.

Mackowski, a 1991 Pitt-Bradford graduate, will discuss his newest book, “Atlas of Independence: John Adams and the American Revolution,” which follows Adams from the early days of protest in Boston through his negotiation of the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Revolutionary War.

The Potter County Farmers Market will be outdoors on the courthouse lawn every Friday from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm.  The next market will be this Friday, September 18th. Below is a list of who plans to be there and what they plan on bringing to the Market:

*  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, 814-598-0649 netrabaker2@gmail.com]

ME AND MY BOYS SOAP will be there on Friday. We will have a selection of goat milk based products. We accept cash or card payments. For more information contact us at meandmyboyssoap@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page. 

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the Stand-Up Program to provide up to $50 million in new funding to help states start or expand their own meat inspection programs in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The program carries out President Trump’s September 4 Executive Order to expand market access for American meat producers and strengthen the domestic supply chain.

BELLEFONTE —Sen. Cris Dush (R-25) and Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R-171) today announced that more than $1 million in Local Share Account (LSA) grants have been approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) for six projects serving Centre County communities.

“LSA grants are important investments in public safety and quality of life for residents of all ages,” said Dush. “Securing this highly competitive funding is a huge win for taxpayers, motorists, emergency responders and local governments who will not have to bear the economic burden for more than $1 million in critical maintenance equipment purchases and various water infrastructure upgrades.”

HARRISBURG, Pa. (September 16) – In advance of upcoming dam infrastructure improvement projects, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) announced today that drawdowns are now underway at the following lakes in the northeast region:

Ford’s Lake, Lackawanna County:

Also known as Ford’s Pond, this 73-acre impoundment owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and managed by the PFBC for public fishing and boating will undergo a full drawdown.  The $3.1 million dollar rehabilitation project will include the reinforcement of the existing dam embankment and spillway with new concrete to meet Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection dam safety standards.  Following the issuing of final permits, construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2027.  Once construction begins, the project is expected to last approximately 1.5 years, with refill anticipated in fall 2028.

Rose Valley Lake, Lycoming County:

This 389-acre impoundment owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and managed by the PFBC for public fishing and boating will undergo a full drawdown.  The $5.9 million dollar rehabilitation project will include the construction of a new spillway and improvements to the existing dam embankment to meet Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection dam safety standards.  Following the issuing of final permits, construction is anticipated to begin in summer 2027.  Once construction begins, the project is expected to last approximately 1.5 years, with refill in spring 2029.

Over the next few weeks, depending on local rainfall, visitors to both Rose Valley Lake and Ford’s Lake will notice water levels being slowly lowered.  Eventually, only a small pool of water will remain within the reservoirs to control sediment flow into downstream waterways.  Fish health testing was completed earlier this summer, and fish salvages will be conducted at both impoundments this fall to move as many fish as possible to other waterways.

While both lakes will remain open to fishing and boating as long as possible during the drawdown periods, anglers and boaters should use caution and avoid muddy areas along the shoreline, lakebed, and boat launches.  Currently, all fishing seasons, sizes, and creel limits remain lifted to help reduce the number of fish in the lake.

COUDERSPORT – Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) is inviting area senior citizens, their family members and caregivers to the annual Senior Citizens Expo in Roulette on Friday, Oct. 9.

The free event will be held at the Roulette Fire Hall, 12 River St., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“There are so many programs and services available to support our senior citizens, but it still can be difficult for people to find the help they need,” Causer said. “I encourage area senior citizens and their caregivers to take advantage of this opportunity to find a wealth of information in one convenient location.”

State, county and local exhibitors will be on hand to distribute information and answer questions. Information about health care, insurance, nutrition and exercise, fire safety, financial planning, fraud protection, government services, hunting/fishing, and personal safety will be available. Health screenings will also be offered, and door prize drawings will be held. Lunch will be served at no charge.

Causer noted his offices in Bradford and Coudersport will be closed for the day due to the expo. Residents in need of assistance may contact the Kane office at 814-837-0880 or the Harrisburg office at 717-787-5075.

Project Will Provide 24/7 Solar-Powered Safety and Asset Protection for McKean County’s Upcoming Public Art Trail

BRADFORD, PA – The Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau (ANFVB), has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the West Penn Energy Fund (WPEF). The funding supports the Sustainable Security & 24/7 Access Pilot, an off-grid solar energy initiative designed for the multi-site “Trolls in the Forest” public art project across McKean County.

The project will deploy self-contained solar power stations across three designated locations in McKean County: the Borough of Kane, the City of Bradford, and within the Allegheny National Forest in the Westline area. These off-grid systems will power high-efficiency LED security lighting and remote surveillance equipment utilizing Starlink/LTE connectivity. By operating entirely on solar energy, the system will protect the public art assets and enable 24-hour visitor access without placing any demand on the local utility grid.

The Children’s Advocacy Center of McKean County (CACMC) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Forensic Interviewer. The Forensic Interviewer conducts high-quality, developmentally appropriate forensic interviews with children and teens who are suspected victims of abuse. The position works closely with law enforcement, Child Protective Services, prosecutors, and other members of the multidisciplinary team to support the investigation and protection of children.

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Conduct objective, child-friendly, culturally sensitive forensic interviews.
• Schedule interviews and accurately document interview results.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, CPS, prosecutors, and victim advocacy professionals.
• Communicate interview findings clearly in multidisciplinary and legal settings.
• Provide court testimony and documentation when required.
• Follow CACMC, National Children’s Alliance, and multidisciplinary team standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree plus 2 years of experience interviewing children from abusive or dysfunctional environments; or
• Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience.
• At least 2 years of professional experience working with children and families where abuse or violence is an issue.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience with criminal justice, child welfare, or forensic interviewing is preferred.

Interested applicants are invited to apply by completing a McKean County job application and submitting a resume.  Please forward to:  McKean County Human Resources, 500 West Main Street, Smethport, PA 16749 or by email to: HR@mckeancountypa.gov. Applicants may also apply online at Indeed.com. We are an equal opportunity employer, M/F/D/V.

Wellsboro, Pa. – When Brooke Krall first walked through the doors of UPMC Wellsboro in February 2013, she wasn’t wearing nursing scrubs or leading a department. Instead, she began her career as a member of the hospital’s housekeeping team, helping maintain a safe, clean environment for patients, visitors, and staff.

More than a decade later, Krall serves as director of UPMC Wellsboro’s Emergency Department, overseeing one of the hospital’s busiest clinical areas and helping shape the future of nursing at the community hospital she has long considered home.

Her journey from environmental services to nursing leadership is one marked by perseverance, education, and a deep commitment to serving the region where she was raised.

CLERMONT, Florida – A&P Creations LLC is recalling certain lots of dietary supplement biQ-FEL 500 mL at the consumer level because it has been found to contain undeclared Sildenafil and Tadalafil.

Sildenafil and Tadalafil are active ingredients in FDA-approved prescription drugs Viagra and Cialis, respectively, used to treat erectile dysfunction. FDA approval of Viagra and Cialis is restricted to use under the supervision of a licensed health care professional. These undeclared ingredients may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs, such as nitroglycerin, and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease often take nitrates.

As of September 14, 2026, A&P Creations LLC has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.

View Full Recall

Exasperated by life’s many struggles, a young woman said, “Why can’t life be simpler?” I suppose we’ve all wondered the same when we’ve faced yet another trial. We want simple answers, but they don’t come. Sometimes we’re looking for someone to tell us what to do, but no one has a magic formula. What works for one doesn’t work for another. Some say life is simple; we make it complicated. I suppose that’s true, as we worry and project outcomes that become our fears and concerns.

Worry has a lot to do with losing our joy. It creates scenarios about our future that create anxiety in our present. When we can’t control outcomes, we spiral into hopelessness as we feel powerless. We want things to be simpler because we tend to believe simpler is better. But is it?

Life and its experiences shape who we become. Our experiences, both good and bad, can create great things in us. People who have gone through great trials have later shared that the experience helped them grow and that they were thankful for it. This aligns with James 1:2-4, which says, “When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”

The simple fact is this. Life is not simple, and sometimes it’s just plain hard. In these times, we need to stop and breathe. That’s right, breathe. Why? Breathing helps us step back and reexamine our circumstances; instead of reacting, we can choose to respond. When we react, we often make the wrong choice because it comes from panic and fear. Perhaps life would be simpler if we learned to approach it more simply. Rather than panicking, sit down, take a deep breath, and plan your next move. Think about it.

On September 15th, 2026, at approximately 1800 hours, members of the Olean Police Department Street Crimes Unit arrested 28-year-old Anthony Sledge-Pearson of 1125 W State St., Olean, NY, after an investigation into the sale of Fentanyl that occurred in the City of Olean.

Sledge-Pearson was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance – 3rd Degree and Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance – 3rd Degree.

Sledge-Pearson was released on an appearance ticket to appear at a later date.

COUDERSPORT – Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) is inviting area senior citizens, their family members and caregivers to the annual Senior Citizens Expo in Roulette on Friday, Oct. 9.

The free event will be held at the Roulette Fire Hall, 12 River St., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“There are so many programs and services available to support our senior citizens, but it still can be difficult for people to find the help they need,” Causer said. “I encourage area senior citizens and their caregivers to take advantage of this opportunity to find a wealth of information in one convenient location.”

State, county and local exhibitors will be on hand to distribute information and answer questions. Information about health care, insurance, nutrition and exercise, fire safety, financial planning, fraud protection, government services, hunting/fishing, and personal safety will be available. Health screenings will also be offered, and door prize drawings will be held. Lunch will be served at no charge.

Causer noted his offices in Bradford and Coudersport will be closed for the day due to the expo. Residents in need of assistance may contact the Kane office at 814-837-0880 or the Harrisburg office at 717-787-5075.

Members of the Hamilton-Gibson Treble Choir, with singers in grades 5-8, and Children’s Choir, Too, with singers in grades 2-4, will lead youngsters 3 to 12 years old and their families and friends in singing traditional folk tunes and children’s songs during the free one-hour Deane Little Beans Sing-Along being held from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m this Saturday, Sept. 19 in the lobby at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts, 104 Main Street in Wellsboro. 

Free snacks will be provided.

Choir Director Thomas Putnam said one of the songs that will be sung is “There Was a Great Big Moose,” a famous, fun call-and-response camp song for children where the leaders sing a line and the youngsters repeat it. 

“All of the songs are family-friendly, ” said Director Thomas Putnam. “Some of the songs the youngsters may already know and others may be new to them,” he said. “All of the tunes and words will be easy to teach and just as easy to learn.”

Youngsters and their families and friends who love to sing are invited to join in the fun. A parent or adult is asked to pre-register (RSVP) the number of children and adults who will be attending online at deanecenter.com by this Friday, Sept. 18 by clicking on “Upcoming Events”, “Deane Little Beans – Sing Along with the Hamilton-Gibson Choir!” and “RSVP.” For more information, call 570-724-6220 or email director@deanecenter.com.

POTTER COUNTY ARTISAN CENTER UP-COMING EVENTS AND CLASSES

• Cathy Snyder will be teaching a “Purse Basket Class” on Saturday, September 19 from 9:30-2:00.  Students will have a choice of basket style and reed colors.  An fabric bag insert will also be available for sale.  Price of the class is $55.00.  All materials provided.  Students are welcome to bring a lunch, snack and drink.  Space is limited, so please register by calling the center. 

• Join us for the Young Artisan Class on Wednesday, September 23, 3:15-4:45. Students will try their hand at painting a donut in acrylic.  Price of the class is $25.00.  All supplies and treats included. 

• Laurie Angood will teach a Line and Wash Fall Sampler Watercolor Class for ages 14 and up on Friday, September 25, from 6 – 8 pm.  Students have the option of using the pre-designed sample painting or designing their own.  Transparent watercolor and ink will be used.  Price of the class is $35.00. Appropriate for beginners and experienced artists.  Artist quality materials provided. 

• Master Quilter, Brenda Bonczar, will be teaching a Quilted Pumpkin Wall Hanging class on Monday, October 5, from 10 am-4pm.  Price of the class is $45.00 and includes all materials.  Bring a lunch and spend the day creating!

• The Potter County Artisan Center will be sponsoring the Falling Leaves Outdoor Show at the Potter County Courthouse Square in Coudersport, PA, Friday and Saturday, September 25 and 26, 9:00am – 7:00 pm.  Come and enjoy the fall magic with food, games, music and a variety of vendors. 

• The Potter County Artisan Center is seeking Food Vendors for the Falling Leaves Outdoor Show, September 25 and 26.  Please contact Carol Jackson, at buckandcarol85@yahoo.com.  Applications can also be picked up at the Potter County Artisan Center at 227 N Main St in Coudersport, PA.

• Need an activity while visiting the area?  Potter County Artisan Co-op can arrange a private group class for you and your friends at your convenience.  Just call ahead or message us on Facebook.

To register for these classes or events, please call the Potter County Artisan Co-op on 814-274-8165.  The co-op is located at 227 N. Main Street.  The co-op’s hours are Monday through Saturday 9:00-5:00. 

Events and classes are supported in part by the Pennsylvania Creative Industries and the Elk County Council on the Arts, state agencies funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.