To Fill A Backpack 31 Days of Christmas Day 27 Winner Is Savannah Ross
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Hometown Author Hunter Prosper To Visit The Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library for Author Talk & Book Signing Copy
Emporium, PA — The Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library is thrilled to announce a very special homecoming event featuring Hunter Prosper, beloved storyteller, social media creator, and author of the bestselling book Stories From a Stranger: Every Person Has a Story. The event will take place on Monday December 29 starting at 4:00 pm in the library’s Multipurpose Room located at 27 W. 4th Street in Emporium.
Sandra K. “Toni” Smith, 85, of Bradford
Sandra K. “Toni” Smith, 85, of Bradford, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025 at the Pavilion at BRMC.
She was born on December 16, 1940 in Bradford; a daughter of the late Glenn and Christine Toothman Rouse.
She was a 1959 graduate of the former Allegany Central School, Allegany, NY.
On October 28, 1961 in the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Port Allegany, she married Donald E. Smith who preceded her in death on May 10, 2012.
Toni was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Bradford. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting and baking. She was an excellent cook who learned how to cook from her grandmother. She was devoted to her family who were the most important people in her world.
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert
High Wind Watch issued December 27 at 12:53PM EST until December 30 at 1:00AM EST by NWS Buffalo NY
* WHAT…Southwest winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts up to 65 mph
possible.
* WHERE…Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Genesee, Wyoming, and
Chautauqua Counties.
* WHEN…From late Sunday night through late Monday night.
* IMPACTS…Strong winds may blow down trees and power lines.
Shallow rooted trees in a saturated ground will be more
susceptible to falling. Scattered power outages are possible.
Travel may be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
Strong winds will blow around unsecured objects, including outdoor
holiday decorations.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Strong southerly winds will gust 45 to 55 mph
in favorable downslope areas, including the Chautauqua Ridge to
the Lake Erie shoreline first, late Sunday night, with winds
quickly veering to southwest and increasing in speed Monday behind
a cold front.
INSTRUCTIONS: Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates. Secure or
shelter objects in a safe location prior to the onset of the strong
winds.
Issued By: NWS Buffalo NY
Dana R. BECKHORN, 51, of Friendship, NY
Dana R. BECKHORN, 51, of Friendship, NY, formerly of Belmont, died Sunday, December 21, 2025, in UR Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester. Born December 1, 1974, in Wellsville, he was the son of Hugh Beckhorn and Iva Baker Ward.
Dana worked as a landscaper and was employed as a machinist by Air Preheater in Wellsville. He enjoyed playing pool and working on cars. He was a Buffalo Bills and L.A. Lakers fan.
Surviving are: four children, Felicia Beckhorn, Danica Beckhorn, Colby Beckhorn, and Aubrey Beckhorn; two grandsons, Greyson and Joshua; four siblings, Stacy (Terrence) Monroe, Marcy Beckhorn, Tony Beckhorn, and Hugh Ward; nieces and nephews; and good friend, Dave Jefferds.
He was predeceased by his parents and a son, Hunter Beckhorn. Services will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of the Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
PennDOT Advises Trucks to Avoid Certain Roadways in North Central Pennsylvania
12/27 Update (Lifted) PennDOT Advises Trucks to Avoid Certain Roadways in North Central Pennsylvania
December 27, 2025 7:45 AM Update: The truck advisories on Routes 44 in Lycoming County and 54 in Northumberland County have been lifted.
Montoursville, PA – Due to the severity of the winter storm, PennDOT is advising that commercial trucks and large trucks avoid certain roadways due to steep grades in north central Pennsylvania.
Commercial and large trucks should avoid:
- Route 44 between Route 554 in Elimsport, Washington Township, and Route 654 in Limestone Township, just south of Jersey Shore Borough, Lycoming County.
- Route 54 between Route 487 in Ralpho Township and Route 61 in Mount Carmel Township in Northumberland County.
Roadways will not be free of snow while precipitation is falling. 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 without warning.
Speed Limits Restored on Roadways in the Region
Montoursville, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has lifted the speed limit and right-lane-only commercial vehicle restrictions that were in place on several roadways in the region.
Due to the winter storm impacting the region, speed limits were reduced to 45 mph on Interstates 80 and 180 in the region. All speeds are restored to their usual posted limits.
PennDOT is still treating roadways in the area and will continue until roads are clear.
Crash Closes I-80 EB in Mifflin Township, Columbia County
Montoursville, PA – Motorists are advised that Interstate 80 eastbound is closed at the Mifflinville/Mainville Exit # 242 in Mifflin Township, Columbia County due to a vehicle crash.
Eastbound motorists are able to utilize the Exit #242 on and off ramps for a short detour. The eastbound lanes are expected to reopen later this evening.
Motorists are urged to drive with caution in the area.
Shirley A. Nitsche, 76, Of Olean
August 18, 1949 — December 22, 2025
Olean- Shirley Ann Nitsche “Loving Mother, Grandmother & Sister”
Shirley A. Nitsche of Rowland Ave passed away on December 22, 2025, at Buffalo General Hospital following an illness.
Shirley was born on August 18, 1949, in Olean and was the daughter of Robert William and Sabina Ann Kwiatkowski Nitsche.
Shirley was a 1967 graduate of Walsh High School. She worked at Lucia’s Restaurant Supper Club for 22 years right out of high school. She owned and operated Bread Sticks on East State Street for 22 years. Shirley movies to Florida where she ran a restaurant called “Smugglers” for 15 years until moving back to Olean in 2012.
Shirley enjoyed shooting pool and playing darts. She loves her pets, especially her dogs; Zeus and Athena.
Joseph A. Floravit, 96, Of St. Marys
November 2, 1929 — December 25, 2025
Joseph A. Floravit, 96, of Spruce Street, St. Marys, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025, following a brief illness.
He was born on November 2, 1929 in Force, PA, a son of the late Thomas Floravit, Sr. and Anita Volpe Floravit.
On June 29, 1957, he married the late Dale S. Kraus, who preceded him in death on August 1, 2019. Together they shared more than 62 years of marriage.
Joe was a lifelong resident of the area and member of St. Marys Church. He retired from Stackpole after more than 30 years of service. With a great love for Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, Joe could often be found watching old country western movies. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandson.
Flood Watch For Western New York
A Flood Watch has been issued for Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Genesee, Niagara, Erie, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties from Sunday December 28, at 1:00 p.m. to Monday, December 29 at 4:00 p.m.
During a flood, water levels and rate at which the water is flowing can quickly change. Most flood fatalities occur in vehicles. You don’t know how deep the water is. Even when water recedes, the ground may be unstable.
- Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. Turn around, don’t drown!
- NEVER drive through barricades.
- Rising and fast floodwaters can sweep vehicles away or cause you to lose control of a vehicle.
- Stay out of floodwaters! Floodwaters hide dangers that can cause sickness, injury, or even death: animals and insects, live wires, dangerous chemicals, sewage, harmful bacteria, and sharp objects and debris.
For more safety tips visit: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/flood
Continue monitoring updates to the forecast via local media or your nearest National Weather Service Office by visiting www.weather.gov and search for your zip code.
Nancy Johnston 91, of 708 Second Avenue
Nancy Johnston 91, of 708 Second Avenue, entered into God’s mercy and justice on Thursday December 25, 2025, at UPMC-Hamot, Erie, following a brief illness.
She was born December 20, 1934, in Johnsonburg, daughter of the late John “Rufus” and Margaret Pendl Johnston. She graduated from Holy Rosary Elementary and Johnsonburg High School class of 1952. She was first employed by G.C. Murphy Co. Then in her senior year she was hired by the New York & Pennsylvania Co. She was a member of Holy Rosary Parish, Senior Choir and the Sodality of Our Lady. In 1967 she attended a Diocesan Cursillo Weekend in Erie which refocused her entire life.
While working with the Religious Ed Program in the late 1960’s, she was enticed to gather a group of students and provide a Folk Choir for a special Youth Liturgy. Due to the extraordinary talents of those students, and favorable response of the pastor and parishioners, the group then played for parish Masses and was invited to introduce Liturgical Folk Music to area parishes and ecumenically as well. Eventually a second group emerged under another director, and she returned to the Traditional Music ministry with the Senior Choir.
George C. Nelson, 65, of JoJo Road
George C. Nelson, 65, of JoJo Road, passed away Tuesday (December 23, 2025) at his residence surrounded by his family.
Born March 13, 1960, in Kane, he was the son of Clifford “Skeeter” and K Jean Simpson Nelson. In 1998, he met his partner of 27 years, Sally Anderson, who survives.
A lifelong resident of Kane, George grew up working for the family business, CW Hardware, before becoming the owner. Outside of work, he could be found working in the garage or spending time with his family, of whom he was incredibly proud.
In addition to his partner, he is survived by his daughter, Jessie (Eric) Bond of Kane; his son, Kyle Nelson of Indianapolis, IN; three grandchildren, Mason Bond, Ava Bond, and Lucas Bond of Kane, four sisters, Cynthia (Wayne) Miller of Harrisburg, Mary Jean (Raymond) Butterfield, Lisa (Roger) Wilson and Amy (Ike) Erdman, all of Kane; his partner’s son, Calvin Pfeil, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Private funeral services will be held at the Cummings Funeral Home, Inc with The Rev. William O’Brien officiating. Burial will be in St. Callistus Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.
Online Condolences can be expressed at cummingsfh.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of George C. Nelson, please visit our floral store.
PennDOT Reduces Speed Limits on Several Area Roadways
Montoursville, 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:
- Interstate 80 between the Ohio state line and mile marker 247 (Columbia / Luzerne County line.
- Interstate 180 entire length.
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.
Martha R. DeFilippo, 84, Of Bradford, PA
Martha R. DeFilippo, 84, of East Main Street Bradford, passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Born October 3, 1941, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Donald E. and Catherine (Place) Good. She was a 1959 graduate of St. Bernard School.
On May 19, 1962, in Smethport, she married Geno M. DeFilippo who preceded her in death on May 8, 2024.
Martha was employed at Zippo Manufacturing for over 25 years.
She enjoyed taking walks, reading and going to bingo. Her greatest joy was being with family, especially her grandchildren.
Surviving are four daughters, Kay Stull (John Perry), of Gerry NY, Christina DeFilippo, Cynthia (Dave) Robinson, and Regina Gann (Don Potts), one son, Anthony DeFilippo (Jennifer Pecora), all of Bradford, 22 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, and 10 great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Route 220 in Clinton County to Remain Closed for Several Hours
Clearfield, PA –The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that it expects Route 220 southbound in between the Lock Haven and Mill Hall/Flemington exits in Clinton County to remain closed for several hours due to a commercial vehicle rollover blocking both lanes of travel.
While the road is closed, traffic will exit Route 220 southbound at Lock Haven and follow Routes 120,150, and 2015 (Mill Hall Road) to reconnect with Route 220 southbound.
Although PennDOT crews are treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, not complete 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.
Denise A. Simmons, 64, Of St. Marys
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 Weedville
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.
PennDOT Reduces Speed Limits on I-99, Route 322
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:
- Interstates 80 between I-79 and exit 133/Kylertown.
- The entirety of Interstate 99.
- Route 322/22 between State College in Centre County and Lewistown in Mifflin County.
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.
PennDOT Temporarily Prohibits CMV Travel on Route 6
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.
PennDOT Reduces Speed Limits on Interstate 80
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:
- Interstates 80 between I-79 and exit 133/Kylertown.
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.
PA CareerLink Potter County
The PA CareerLink Potter County closed early today due to the pending storm and weather conditions. Closed at Noon.
Thank you
Prepare Now For Post-Christmas Winter Storms – PUC Shares #UtilitySafety Tips
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)
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.
Leadership Elk Cameron Program Explores Arts & Education
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
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.