Music On The Lawn At The Ulysses Library August 10th
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Cattaraugus-Little Valley grads awarded CRCF scholarships
Five Cattaraugus-Little Valley graduates were recently awarded scholarships through funds managed by the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation.
Bailey Cannon, Hannah Dorman and Zoe Whitmore received the May C. Carroll Scholarship for $1,000.
The May C. Carroll Scholarship is given to a graduating senior of the Cattaraugus-Little Valley School District. Recipients must demonstrate academic promise and be active in extracurricular activities and community service. The scholarship was established at CRCF through the May C. Carroll Trust.
Donald L. VanOrd, 89, of Russell, PA.
Donald L. VanOrd
Donald L. VanOrd, 89, of Russell, PA., died on his birthday, August 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born August 7, 1936, in Warren, PA. Don was the son of the late Agidius and Marion Ludwick VanOrd. He was a lifelong Warren/Russell area resident. Don graduated from Northern Area High School in 1954 and attended Jamestown Community College. Don served with the U.S. Army with the 101st Airborne Division from 1958 to 1961 as an E4.
Agnes “Aggie” B. Reed, 85, of Warren, Pennsylvania
In Loving Memory of Agnes “Aggie” B. Reed
Agnes “Aggie” B. Reed, 85, of Warren, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home after a long illness on Tuesday morning, August 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born January 9, 1940, in Pittsburgh, PA, she was the daughter of the late Howard and Catherine Betz. She graduated from St. John the Baptist High School in 1957 and later built a fulfilling career as a notary public, proudly serving the community for 17 years at Warren AAA.
On August 6, 1960, she married Samuel B. Reed, with whom she shared a joyful and adventurous marriage until his passing in December, 2011. Together, they raised a beautiful family and created a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
John M Sullivan of Galeton, Pennsylvania
John M Sullivan of Galeton, Pennsylvania went home to be with the Lord on July 30, 2025. He passed away at Williamsport Hospital in the loving arms of two of his daughters.
A loyal lifelong resident of Potter County Pennsylvania, John was born on April 9th 1953, the youngest of five siblings. Throughout his life, John was a proud US Army Veteran, a business owner and a Pennsylvania State Constable. He organized several community events and auto shows in the 1990s. He loved the Lord, vintage cars, old television shows, animals, the outdoors, traveling, music, (70’s rock!) and most of all – his family.
What he was most proud of though, were his four daughters. They were his pride and joy. No one who met John remained unchanged. His story of survival and perseverance in the face of obstacles inspired so many, and his quirky sense of humor and deep generosity will be sorely missed.
John is preceded in death by his father, John P Sullivan, his mother and number one fan, Lois J Furcron both of Galeton, PA, in addition to many grandparents, aunts and uncles, close friends and animal companions that have gone before him.
BRADFORD MAN’S CONVICTION FOR HOMICIDE BY VEHICLE UPHELD BY APPEALS COURT
(MCKEAN COUNTY, Pennsylvania: August 6, 2025): District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that the Pennsylvania Superior Court has affirmed the conviction of a Bradford man for causing the death of a female and serious bodily injury to three men in a fatal car crash that occurred in 2018.
Daniel OAKS, of Bradford, was convicted of Homicide by Vehicle, Involuntary Manslaughter, 3 counts of Aggravated Assault by Vehicle and 5 counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person. A passenger in OAKS’ vehicle, Alyssa Hawk, died as a result of the crash which also seriously injured three men. Following trial, OAKS was sentenced by the Judge to incarceration in state prison for a term of 19 months to 56 months.
The testimony at trial was that OAKS was driving his vehicle at an excessive speed and left the roadway – colliding with a truck parked in a yard. The passenger side of the OAKS’ vehicle struck the truck before rotating and forcing the truck into a porch near three men standing nearby.
The men were flung through the air – all suffering serious injuries. Another man was standing near an ATV in the yard and escaped injury. Following the crash, neighbors in the area of the crash ran to the scene and provided aid to the injured men. Numerous firemen, paramedics, EMTs, and police officers from other areas responded to assist.
Many of the neighbors and first responders testified to hearing the car pass the houses on the roadway at an excessive rate of speed before crashing and to rendering aid to the men but finding Alyssa Hawk in the passenger seat unable to be saved. She was pronounced deceased at the scene. The men were flown to out-of-area trauma centers for treatment. Officer Eric Neiswonger and Pennsylvania State Police Accident Reconstructionist Corporal David Kostok investigated the crash.
McKean County District Attorney Stephanie L. Vettenburg-Shaffer and 1st Assistant District Attorney Michael Alfieri prosecuted the case. OAKS was represented at trial by Tony Clarke and Chris Martini.
Gabrielle R. “Gabby” Cobb, 28, of Willow Creek
Gabrielle R. “Gabby” Cobb, 28, of Willow Creek, passed away Monday, August 4, 2025.
Born on December 8, 1996, in Bradford, she was a daughter of Timothy D. and Grace E. (Yohe) Cobb.
Gabby was a 2015 graduate of Bradford Area High School, where she participated in track and field.
She was employed as a Supervisor in the Count Room at Three Rivers Casino, and formerly at the Seneca Allegany Casino in Salamanca NY.
Gabrielle was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan. She loved swimming, going to water parks as well as spending time with her furry companion Jack.
Austin Woman’s Spinal Surgery Helped Her Get Back in the Saddle
For Kathy Torrey of Austin, Pa., horseback riding has been a lifelong passion. At 74, she still rides for hours through the scenic trails of north central Pennsylvania with friends. But in early 2024, a troubling numbness in her legs began to interfere with her ability to walk—let alone ride.
“It was constant,” Kathy says. “There was no relief, no matter what I did.”
Encouraged by friends, Kathy visited her primary care provider and was referred to Weizhen Wang, M.D., a neurologist at UPMC Neurological Institute in Williamsport. Dr. Wang ordered an MRI, which revealed a tumor compressing Kathy’s thoracic spine.
“Dr. Wang was extremely kind,” Kathy says. “She explained everything and got the ball rolling.”
To reduce travel before surgery, Kathy underwent a full-body MRI closer to home at UPMC Cole in Coudersport. The experience was unexpectedly comforting—she listened to music during the scan, and the final song reminded her of her late mother. “It was like a sign,” she says. “I knew everything was going to be OK.”
Kathy was quickly referred to the neurosurgery team at UPMC, where Holly Shadle, C.R.N.P., helped fast-track her for surgery. On July 29, 2024, Fadi Sweiss, M.D., neurosurgeon, performed a laminectomy at UPMC Williamsport to remove the tumor and relieve pressure on her spinal cord.
“Dr. Sweiss was so kind and gentle,” Kathy says. “It was evident he knew what he was doing.”
After four days in the hospital and a careful recovery at home with help from family and friends, Kathy was back on her feet—and back in the saddle by fall.
“I have absolutely no tingling in my legs,” she says. “It was just amazing.”
Today, Kathy rides several times a week and continues to care for her three horses. In May 2025, she joined friends for a multi-day trip to Benezette, riding four hours a day, over multiple days.
“I was sore, but after a hot shower, I felt great,” she says. “It’s just a matter of getting the muscles and my stamina back.”
Grateful for her care team and the support of her friends, Kathy says, “It was meant to be. I was exactly where I needed to be.”
Galeton Held Its First Police Night Out On August 5
Galeton Police National Night Out – Galeton held its first Police Night Out on August 5, 2025 at the John J. Collins Park. What is National Night Out? It’s a nationwide event that brings police, first responders, and community members together to build strong relationships and promote safer neighborhoods. When we know each other, we work better together – and that makes our community stronger and safer.
Photo On The Left Is PA State Representative Martin Causer, Galeton Police Chief Joe Cimino, Jr. and PA State Trooper Maze.
Photo On The Right Is the PA State Police helicopter which came to the event from Franklin, PA. This is one of six helicopters in their fleet which also includes two airplanes. In the photo are the pilots of the unit, Trooper Ed Kiser and Trooper Don Watters. We want to thank them for taking the time to visit Galeton for this event.
Photos by Andy Lychalk, Jr.
Trespassing Arrest In Bradford
On August 1, 2025, at approximately 11:36 a.m., City of Bradford Police responded to a report of trespassers at 34 Florence Street. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the complainant, who had arrived to check on the property as the homeowner was hospitalized with health issues. The complainant reported that someone had fled the scene upon their arrival.
After conducting a search of the residence, officers located Todd Stahli, a homeless individual, hiding inside. It was determined that Stahli had gained unauthorized access to the home and was staying there without permission. During the arrest, officers found the homeowner’s cell phone in Stahli’s pocket, which led to additional charges.
Stahli was taken into custody and charged with Burglary, Trespass, Theft, and Receiving Stolen Property. Magistrate Richard Luther arraigned Stahli and remanded him to McKean County Jail on $60,000 cash bail.
The City of Bradford Police Department would like to take this opportunity to remind the public that resources are available for individuals struggling with homelessness. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please reach out to the YWCA for support.
All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For more information, please contact the City of Bradford Police Department.
8th annual Coudersport Gospel Tabernacle Back to School Block Party August 9th
Come join the fun at our 8th annual Back to School Block Party on August 9th from 11-3. We’ll have FREE bounce houses, inflatable slides, cotton candy, popcorn, and soooo much more
Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Dissection Mini-Camp Registration Open
Professor Orin James instructs a participant on his dissection during a past Dissection Mini-Camp event at the Barbara Moscato Brown Library in Emporium. Registration is now open for this year’s Mini-Camp scheduled for August 12, & Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 1-2:30 PM. This free program is open to all area youth ages 12-18.
Teens explore dissecting an eyeball at a past Dissection Mini-Camp event at the Barbara Moscato Brown Library in Emporium. Registration is now open for this year’s Mini-Camp scheduled for August 12, & Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 1-2:30 PM. This free program is open to all area youth ages 12-18.
The Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library is excited to bring back our popular Dissection Mini-Camp, with Pitt-Bradford Professor, Orin James on August 12, & Thursday, August 14, 2025, both from 1-2:30 PM. This program, open to youth ages 12-18, is a very special REAL DISSECTION program where you will get the chance to dissect a brain and an eyeball.
You MUST register for each program session separately! The Library will cover the cost of this special program for anyone who wants to attend.
Space is limited so register now by calling 814-486-8011, or in-person at the Barbara Moscato Brown Library at 27 W. 4th Street, Emporium, or by going to https://barbaramoscatobrownlibrary.org/library-programs/ and completing the online registration form.
Tuesday, August 12 — Cardiovascular System:
Students will learn about the parts and structure of the Cardiovascular System. They’ll also get to dissect an animal heart!
Thursday, August 14 — Visual System:
Students will learn about the form and function of the Visual System. They’ll get to dissect an animal eyeball!
Get wild in the kitchen! New collaboration with Stello Foods leads to PA Wilds branded wild game sauces
Stello Foods Inc. has partnered with the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship to release a line of Pennsylvania Wilds-themed pasta sauces.
The pasta sauces will be labeled the PA Wilds Wild Game Sauce and PA Wilds Wild Game Pasta Sauce. These sauces will be perfect for meals including spaghetti, stews, roasts or crockpot recipes. The PA Wilds Game Meat Sauces are an excellent addition to your camping gear or to add flavor to a meal at home.
“In the Pennsylvania Wilds, hunting is one of the most popular activities for both residents and visitors,” said Ta Enos, PA Wilds Center’s Founder & CEO. “Sauces and rubs help perfect the plates made from a day’s harvest! We’re excited to be teaming up with Stello Foods to bring some new options to the market that reflect our region’s culture, connection to local wildlife, and pride of place.”
Potter County PennDOT Retirees Yearly Picnic
Potter County PennDOT Retirees yearly picnic is to be held August 14th at 12:00 o’clock, noon at Frosty Hollow. (Joe and Gail Ayers)! Please bring your own table service, beverage, and a dish to pass!! Spouses invited also!
August Community Classes & Support Groups Offered at BRMC & OGH
During the month of August, Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and Olean General Hospital (OGH), Kaleida Health facilities, are offering a variety of classes and support groups designed to provide health education, encouragement and community connection.
If you are scheduled for total joint replacement surgery, join our Total Joint Care Class. This class provides an overview of your procedure, the recovery process and the rehabilitation you will need. It is led by an experienced member of our outpatient rehabilitation team. This month, the class will be held on Wednesday, August 20, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the OGH Education Center on the first floor. To register, call (716) 375-7481.
PITT-BRADFORD NAMED A COLLEGE OF DISTINCTION
For the 11th consecutive year, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has been named a College of Distinction for helping its students learn, grow and succeed, and was recognized in eight individual areas.
Colleges of Distinction is an online guide for college-bound students that recognizes student-centered schools that traditional rankings may often overlook.
In addition to the general 2025-2026 recognition, Colleges of Distinction recognized Pitt-Bradford in the areas of public colleges and Pennsylvania colleges and for its programs in business, education, nursing, career development, and equity and inclusion.
Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library Completes County-Wide Technology Upgrade Thanks to Emporium and Mee Foundations
Emporium, PA — The Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library is proud to announce the successful completion of a major technology upgrade project, made possible through the generous support of both the Emporium Foundation and the George & Margaret Mee Foundation. With a combined investment of over $32,000, the project has significantly modernized the library’s digital infrastructure and expanded public access to essential technology resources throughout Cameron County.
The comprehensive upgrade included the replacement of outdated public and staff computers, the installation of a new server and networking hardware, enhanced software for public use, and new equipment for in-library programming. All computers are now compatible with current operating systems and offer patrons access to tools for video conferencing, photo and video editing, and professional document creation.
Thank You From Austin Education Foundation
The 25th Austin Education Foundations Golf Tournament was held on Sunday, July 20, 2025 at the Emporium Country Club. The event had 24 teams participate. The tournament is an annual fundraiser for the Austin Education Foundation Scholarship program.
This year’s winners are as follows:
1st place– Fowler’s Garage – Ron Stuckey, Tom Wardel, John Frank, & Kade Logue
2nd place–Cooneys “Mountain Mustard” – Denny Cooney, Kal Logue, Zach Jeffers, & Jamer Cooney
3rd place–Team Burgett – Dave Burgett, Rick Vassalo, Dillon Gallagher, & Jim Jones
Longest drive (male) – Scott Haman
Longest drive (female) – Mary Jo Kahnell
Longest putt – Harry Jones
$500 Visa gift card raffle – Billy Sue Glover
Congratulations to all the winners!
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all who participated in the tournament and raffles. Your support allows our organization to continue to raise funds to provide scholarships for graduating students from Austin Area High School. We appreciate your continued support.
A special “thank you” to Jan and David Eubanks, Austin, PA and to Ed and Sandra Stuart, Emporium, PA for your generous donations to our Foundation.
And finally, “thank you” to Mike Keefer and the entire staff at Emporium Country Club for helping to make this event a huge success.
Anne “Amy” M. Ayers, 73, of Port Allegany, PA
Anne “Amy” M. Ayers, 73, of Port Allegany, passed away Saturday (August 2, 2025) at Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.
She was born May 10, 1952 in Port Allegany, the daughter of Daniel and Judith (Petrie) Crowley.
Amy was a graduate of Port Allegany High School class of 1970 and worked at the Market Basket and Shop & Save in Port Allegany, until her retirement.
Robert D. Porter, 62, of Ridgway
Robert D. Porter, 62, of Ridgway, died unexpectedly on Friday, August 1, 2025.
He was born on October 14, 1962, in Johnstown, a son of the late John and Patricia Reynolds Porter.
Bob dedicated 45 years of his life to American Axle, where he was known for his unwavering work ethic and commitment. Upon his retirement in April, he focused on his passions, enjoying a round of golf and his unwavering support for Pittsburgh sports teams. Bob was a proud father whose love for his children knew no bounds. He thought highly of them and would do anything to ensure their happiness and well-being.
ACCESS TO BRIAR CREEK LAKE, COLUMBIA COUNTY, TO BE CLOSED TEMPORARILY FOR IMPROVEMENTS
HARRISBURG, Pa. (August 4) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) announced today that the access area at Briar Creek Lake, Columbia County, will be temporarily closed beginning on August 11, 2025, and remain closed for approximately one week. During this time, a new concrete boat ramp will be constructed.
This information is an update to a previous announcementregarding this facility and establishes a new date range for the temporary closure.
The PFBC thanks the public for their patience and understanding as these improvements are completed.
DMAP PERMIT SALES BEGIN AUG. 11
The third round of antlerless deer license sales kicks off at 8 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 11, which also marks the first opportunity for hunters to pick up their Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) permits.
This year could see increased interest for DMAP permits, each of which can be used to harvest an antlerless deer on the specific property for which the permit is issued.
LPN Course From Penn College In Coudersport?
Considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)? Several people from our area have enrolled in the Penn College LPN course that begins in September in Wellsboro. If a few more people from the area enroll, the course will be held at the Education Council in Coudersport, too, which will save having to drive to Wellsboro.
When you enroll in the full-time Practical Nursing program, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling career in just one year. With skilled faculty, hands-on learning labs, 1,546 hours of instruction, and access to Penn College student services, you’ll be confident and ready to take the Practical Nursing licensing exam (NCLEX-PN), and if you want to advance your career, Penn College has pathways to get you there.
To learn more, attend the Information Session scheduled for Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at Penn College/Wellsboro, 22 Walnut Street, and live via Zoom at the Education Council’s office at 5 Water Street, Coudersport. Registration is required. For more information or to register for the Information Session, call Wendy Joachim at (570) 724-7703.
Food Safety Courses Offered At The Education Council:
ServSafe Food Safety Certification
ServSafe is a certification program developed by the Restaurant Association Education Foundation. The course meets certification requirements for individuals who are responsible for the safe handling of food in restaurants, schools, elder care facilities, lodges, bed and breakfasts, community centers, and other food concessions (organizations or businesses that sell or prepare food regularly).
This course, taught by Rick Kralj, Penn State Educator, is scheduled for Wednesdays, August 27 and September 3, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Education Council’s Coudersport office. The cost is $165/person. The registration deadline is Wednesday, August 20th. To register, go to http://extension.psu.edu/food-safety/serv-safe.