NEWS

Allegany-Limestone Central School students interested in learning opportunities beyond the traditional classroom are encouraged to apply for the Ratana Ratanawongsa Scholarship, administered by the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation.

The scholarship supports ALCS students in grades 7–10 who wish to participate in enrichment programs during the school year or over the summer.

This year, awards of up to $1,000 are available.

The scholarship was established by the family of Dr. Ratana Ratanawongsa, a former pathologist at St. Francis Hospital and Olean General Hospital, to honor her memory and to help students explore new interests and experiences before college.

Previously, the fund has helped students take part in opportunities such as leadership conferences, college-level coursework and other unique educational programs.

Applicants are required to submit a brief, 200-word essay explaining why they chose their enrichment program, along with a recommendation from a teacher or guidance counselor.

As the colder months drag on and heaters continue to blast, many people notice their skin turning itchy, flaky, tight, or even cracked. If it feels like your skin transforms overnight once winter hits, you’re not imagining it. Dermatologists see a surge in dry-skin complaints every year, and the good news is, a few simple changes can make a dramatic difference.

Why Winter Zaps Your Skin’s Moisture

Winter creates the perfect storm for dryness. Cold air outdoors holds far less humidity than warm summer air. Then, when we heat our homes, we strip even more moisture from our environment and our skin.

On top of that, winter winds can disrupt your skin barrier, the protective layer that keeps hydration in and irritants out. When that barrier breaks down, water evaporates faster, leaving your skin feeling rough and stressed.

Plans for Hybrid In-Person and Virtual Meeting

on Tuesday, February 10, 2026

HARRISBURG – A total of 468 disciplinary actions, including 202 education requirements, and $473,375 in administrative penalties, have been taken against 290 underground facility owners, excavators and project owners in the latest enforcement actions by the Public Utility Commission’s (PUC’s) Damage Prevention Committee (DPC).  These actions were taken during the DPC’s January 2026 meeting.

The next meeting of the DPC is Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 9 a.m. Members of the public, the media and others are invited to join the meeting virtually by clicking on this Microsoft Teams event link or by calling into the telephone conference by dialing 267-332-8737, and then entering phone conference ID 156 325 933# to listen to the meeting. The meeting agenda will be made available here.

About the DPC

The DPC is a peer-based group of 13 representatives, nominated by their industry or affiliated organizations and appointed by the PUC. Creation of the committee was authorized by Pennsylvania’s Underground Utility Line Protection Law – also known as the “One Call Law.” The focus of the DPC is to reduce the number of …

View this press release on our website

Andrew A. MONROE, 77, of Sayre, PA, formerly of Westfield, died Friday, January 16, 2026 in Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre.  Born November 26, 1948, in Sunderlinville, he was the son of Harold and Mayjol Snay Monroe.  

He was married to Regenia B. Manning Richardson, who predeceased him on April 18, 2016.  He was employed by Ingersoll-Rand, Painted Post, NY and Patterson Lumber in Galeton.  

Surviving are: three children, Andrew Monroe, Jr., Julie Monroe , and Mary Monroe; several grandchildren; three sisters, Crystle Thorne of Wellsboro, Carolyn Setzer of Wellsboro, and Cynthia Swimelar of Westfield; a brother, Alan Monroe of Westfield; nieces and nephews.  

In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by three brothers and six sisters.  Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

CEC Makerspace Issues Call for Local Talent to Spark Innovation

ST. MARYS – The CEC Makerspace is officially scouting for community members with a passion for “doing” to help inspire the next generation of creators. Whether you are a retired tradesman, a weekend hobbyist, or a digital native, the CEC Makerspace wants your expertise.

But what is a Makerspace you ask? A Makerspace is a collaborative workspace where people of all ages and backgrounds gather to create, invent and learn using a variety of “no-tech to high tech tools”, according to Google. Makerspaces are increasingly vital for developing 21st-century skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. They provide equitable access to expensive equipment, allowing anyone in the community to transform a creative idea into a tangible object/product.

The Bingham Township Supervisors are seeking applications for a part-time Secretary/Treasurer.  Experience in bookkeeping with QuickBooks, Computer skills, and Secretarial skills are needed.  Duties would include:

Payroll, Quarterly Taxes, Annual W-2’s, Reconciliations, Paying & Recording Invoices, Making Deposits, Balancing Bank Statements, State Reports, DCED Reports, Grant Applications, Attending monthly meetings, Taking & Recording Minutes, providing Financial Records, Assessment Building Permits, Driveway Permits, Road Bonds & Permits, Open Record Requests, and Budgets.

Position will begin June 1^st, 2026

For more information, please call 814-848-9863

Resumes may be mailed to: Bingham Township

843 Bingham Center Road,

Genesee, PA 16923

Smethport Area School District is operating under a 2 hour delay tomorrow, January 27th.

The City of Bradford Police and Fire Department are on scene of a 2 car motor vehicle crash on Seaward Avenue. The roadway is temporarily closed. Please use detours around this location.

HEADLINE: Cold Weather Advisory issued January 26 at 12:32PM EST until January 27 at 1:00PM EST by NWS Binghamton NY

DESCRIPTION: * WHAT…Very cold wind chills as low as 15 to 20 below expected, especially in southwestern portions of the county.

* WHERE…Steuben County.

* WHEN…From 10 PM this evening to 1 PM EST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS…The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 20 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

INSTRUCTIONS: Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.

Keep pets indoors as much as possible.

Issued By: NWS Binghamton NY

Dickinson Center, Inc. (DCI), an affiliate of Journey Health System (JHS), is pleased to announce the appointment of Lindsey Johnston, CPRP, as the new manager of their Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program in Coudersport. This transition marks a significant step forward as the office relocates to its new home at 221 North Main Street in Coudersport, Pennsylvania.

Johnston is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Widener University in Chester, Pennsylvania and she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. Furthermore, her certification as a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP) highlights her commitment to the field and her capability to support individuals facing mental health challenges.

Rita Kraus, the Senior Director of Site-Based Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services at DCI exclaimed, “We are thrilled that Lindsey has joined our team to provide high-quality service to our consumers. Her seven years of experience in managing psychiatric rehabilitation services will undoubtedly enhance the care provided to the community.”

The new Coudersport site is more than just an office; it is a sanctuary for adults diagnosed with severe mental illnesses who are working toward achieving independence and personal goals related to living, working, learning and social engagement. DCI’s Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program serves residents of Cameron, Elk, McKean and Potter counties with offices in Coudersport and Ridgway.

Due to the expected weather conditions, frigid temperatures, and for the safety of our volunteers and food pantry neighbors, the Duke Center UMC Food pantry is postponed until Tuesday February 3rd.  

HEADLINE: Cold Weather Advisory issued January 26 at 12:57AM EST until January 27 at 1:00PM EST by NWS Buffalo NY

DESCRIPTION: * WHAT…Bitterly cold wind chills as low as 24 below zero expected.

* WHERE…Southern Erie and Wyoming counties and the western
Southern Tier.

Smethport Schools are CLOSED TODAY 1/26/26.

The Bingham Township Supervisors are seeking applications for a part-time Secretary/Treasurer.  Experience in bookkeeping with QuickBooks, Computer skills, and Secretarial skills are needed.  Duties would include:

Payroll, Quarterly Taxes, Annual W-2’s, Reconciliations, Paying & Recording Invoices, Making Deposits, Balancing Bank Statements, State Reports, DCED Reports, Grant Applications, Attending monthly meetings, Taking & Recording Minutes, providing Financial Records, Assessment Building Permits, Driveway Permits, Road Bonds & Permits, Open Record Requests, and Budgets.

Position will begin June 1^st, 2026

For more information, please call 814-848-9863

Resumes may be mailed to: Bingham Township

843 Bingham Center Road,

Genesee, PA 16923

Monday, January 26, 2026, we will be operating on a 2 hour delay.

CASD Schools are closed tomorrow, Monday January 26th, and after school activities are canceled. Stay safe, stay warm!

    BRADFORD, Pa. — The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford will hold remote classes Monday, Jan. 26, due to inclement weather. All in-person events have been canceled or postponed. Additionally, non-essential campus personnel will work remotely.

    Those asked to report are campus police, dining services and staff in facilities and residential life and housing.

    Campus personnel will be available by email. Individual contact information for staff and faculty can be found on the Pitt-Bradford website at https://www.upb.pitt.edu/directory.

Weather related on I-86 both directions west of NY State Line, entire length within the state of Pennsylvania (Mina) All lanes open . In response to forecasted weather conditions, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has implemented a FULL Commercial Vehicle Restriction.

Visit 511NY.org for more information

Hebron Center Christian School will be closed Monday, January 26.

Ulysses Township will hold its Regular Monthly Meetings at 7 pm on the 2nd Wednesday of each month in 2026 and will hold its Planning Meetings on the 1st Thursday of the month at 7 pm as needed. 

HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners met today at the Game Commission’s Harrisburg headquarters to hear public comment and conduct official business that included the preliminary approval of 2026-27 hunting seasons and bag limits, which are provided in a separate news release. Other highlights from today’s meeting follow.

MENTORED HUNTERS UNDER 7 TO RECEIVE TAGS

All mentored hunters – including those under 7 years old – will get antlered deer and turkey harvest tags with their permits beginning in the 2026-27 license year.

The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners today voted to adopt a measure intended to improve access to the mentored hunting program and expand hunting opportunities within it.

The mentored hunting program allows young and inexperienced hunters to hunt under the guidance and supervision of a mentor if they obtain a permit and follow all program requirements.

Under the previous system, most mentored hunters received antlered deer, fall turkey and spring turkey harvest tags with their permits, but mentored hunters who are younger than 7 when they obtain their permits did not. If a mentored hunter under 7 harvested an antlered deer or turkey, they had to receive the appropriate big-game harvest tag from their mentor, meaning the mentor needed a valid tag to take them hunting.

Saturday afternoon City firefighters were dispatched on Box 1-3 to a Longfellow Avenue residence for a reported house fire. First due units arrived on scene to find a 1 story residential structure with smoke and flames showing. At that time a second alarm was requested by Captain 1-10(C.Mealy) bringing all of duty personnel and Derrick City Volunteer Fire Department to the scene. The fire was heavily involved in the crawl space at the rear of the house and extend to the first floor and attic space. First due units made a quick hit on the fire, extensive overhaul followed. Firefighting efforts were hampered by the extreme cold temperatures. Multiple hydrants were froze along with every other piece of equipment on scene. Squad 1 and Engine 1 both froze up and required light mechanical service before returning to quarters. City Fire was assisted on scene by City of Bradford Police, Derrick City VFD(RIT), City DPW, Bradford Township Volunteer Fire Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Penelec and Bradford City Water Authority. Chief 1(Butler) had Longfellow command.

Shout out to local mechanic Pete Falconi for coming out and servicing our fire apparatus so we could return to quarters.

Shoutout to Believers Chapel for bringing their RV over to keep the occupant of the home safe and warm (picture in the comments).

Smethport Schools will have a 2-hour delay tomorrow.

Allegany Township Board of Supervisors will be holding their Regular Monthly Meetings in Colesburg in 2026 on the first Thursday of the month starting at 4:30. Planning meetings will be held at the same time as needed. 

Kathleen Jean Minor, 94, of Coudersport, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026, at UPMC – Cole, Coudersport.  She was born in Atwood, TN on April 4, 1931, the daughter of the late Cecil and Sophia (Springer) Minor.

Kathleen graduated from Oyster Bay High School, Long Island, NY. She worked for many years as an operator for Bell Telephone in Long Island and later was an ATA bus driver after she moved to Coudersport.  She was a lifelong member of the Gospel Tabernacle, Coudersport.  Kathleen enjoyed playing the piano and guitar, roller skating, bowling, and had a wonderful sense of humor.  She loved her family, loved the Lord, and was a wonderful sister and aunt. 

Kathleen is survived by a brother, Paul (Susan) Minor of Coudersport; sisters: Dorothy Ross of Mechanicsburg; Naomi Frombach of Coudersport; Mary (Bruce) Quimby of Lincoln University, PA; and numerous nieces and nephews.  In addition to her parents, Kathleen was preceded in death by her brothers: Rev. David Minor, Sr., and James Minor, Sr.

Family and friends are welcome to pay their respects on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 12 noon to 1:00 pm at the Gospel Tabernacle, 420 US-6 West, Coudersport. A celebration of Kathleen’s life will follow at 1 pm at the church, with Pastor John Minor officiating. A private burial will be held in Eulalia Cemetery at a later date.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made in Kathleen’s name to the Haven of Hope Foundation, 420 US-6 West, c/o Gospel Tabernacle, Coudersport, PA 16915. The family has entrusted her arrangements to the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East St., Coudersport. To share a memory or condolence with the family, please visit www.thomasfickinger.com.

PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed for Snow Emergency

Centers will be closed January 26 and January 27.

Customers with road tests will be contacted to reschedule.

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Monday, January 26, 2026, through Tuesday, January 27, 2026, due to the predicted snow event this weekend.

Customers who have road tests scheduled will be contacted by PennDOT staff to reschedule their road tests, or they may go online to reschedule their road test.

Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications, and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website.

Driver and vehicle online services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and include driver’s license, photo ID and vehicle registration renewals; driver-history services; changes of address; driver license and vehicle registration restoration letters; ability to pay driver license or vehicle insurance restoration fee; driver license and photo ID duplicates; REAL ID pre-verification; and driver exam scheduling. There are no additional fees for using online services.

Weather Closure Alert

For the safety of staff and residents, the Pike Township Dump will be closed January 25, 2026 due to the winter storm.