NEWS

Bradford, PA – Open Arms Community Church, a Free Methodist congregation, is set to swap buildings with the First Baptist Church of Bradford in a unique and transformative partnership that will enhance their ability to serve the community. The move, scheduled for Spring 2025, will see Open Arms relocating from its current location at 1289 East Main Street in Foster Township to the First Baptist Church building at 71 Congress Street in downtown Bradford.

This unprecedented swap began in September 2023, when Pastor Jeremy Childs of First Baptist approached Open Arms’ Lead Pastor Zoe Hatcher about the possibility of exchanging properties. Both churches are debt-free and have seen an opportunity to better align their facilities with their growing ministry needs. Neither congregation is seeking financial gain from the transaction; rather, the swap aims to create a more effective environment for worship, outreach, and community engagement.
“We were excited to hear about the opportunity,” said Pastor Hatcher. “Their congregation was looking for a smaller space to maintain, and we were in need of more room for our growing congregation. After prayerful consideration and discussions with our Leadership Team, we agreed to explore the feasibility of the swap.”
The leadership teams of both churches, along with denominational advisors and legal advisors, have worked together to assess the logistics of the move. Multiple building inspections and financial projections were conducted, and both congregations voted in favor of the swap. Open Arms members voted in favor in August, and First Baptist Church followed suit in September.

Port Allegany had five Gator football players selected to the Olean Times Herald Big 30 All-Star Team.  On Offense was Aiden Bliss, Carson Neely and Juuso Young.  On Defense are Nick Wilfong and Tristan Kiser. They are pictured (front row, left to right) Carson Neely, Juuso Young; (back) Nick Wilfong, Tristan Kiser, and Aiden Bliss.  

HARRISBURG – Sen. Cris Dush (R-25) today announced that the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority has awarded grant funding for the purchase of more than 170 laptops in communities where affordability has been identified as a significant barrier to digital broadband access and expansion.

“Connecting underserved, rural households, schools and local governments with the technology and resources they need to successfully bridge the digital divide is absolutely critical for making our entire region more appealing for future development and family-sustaining job creation,” said Dush “Best of all, these laptop devices will be distributed to provide affordable and reliable online access to education, workforce training and other vital community services—all at no cost to local residents.”

The recipients of the laptops are:

• Brockway Center for Arts and Technology (Jefferson County), receiving 72 laptops.
• McKean County (Smethport), receiving 100 laptops.

* WHAT…Heavy snow expected. Total accumulations between 5 and 12
inches, with the highest amounts on the ridgetops. Lower
elevations could see 3 to 5 inches of snow accumulations.

* WHERE…Northern Lycoming, Potter, Schuylkill, and Tioga Counties.

* WHEN…From 4 PM this afternoon to 4 PM EST Friday.

* IMPACTS…The strong winds and weight of snow on tree limbs may
down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages. Travel
could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the
Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Persons should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely
necessary, drive with extreme caution. Consider taking a winter
storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains,
booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing.
Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help
you survive in case you become stranded.

Jackie Hazen, a member of the Quilt of Valor Foundation and the Smethport Piecemakers Quilt Guild and Elaine Irons, President of the Guild, recognized two veterans with quilts.  In 2003, a quilter named Catherine Roberts started the movement that became Quilts of Valor when her son was delayed in Iraq.  It was literally a dream that Catherine had that showed a service member sitting by his cot with his head in his hands.  While she was dreaming she saw this soldier wrapped in a quilt with a smlle now on his face.  When she awoke she decided that any veteran that had been touched by war would benefit from a quilt.  Since that dream, quilts have been presented to 400,910 veterans touched by war.  

Thousands of quiters all over the United States work daily to create quilts to cover veterans.  A Quilt of Valor brings a three part message – first, quilters honor veterans for their service, their sacrifice and their valor.  They are thanked for the price paid on behaf of the American people; second, freedom is not free.  The quilts are meant to bring comfort and remind veterans they are forever in the quilters’ thoughts and prayers; thrid – a Quilt of Valor is not a charity quilt or just a  blanket, – it consists of three layers:  the top represents communities and al the individuals who have contibuted to it and are part of presenting the quilts; the middle layer of batting represents the warmth, comfort, peace and healing wished for the veteran; and finally, the backing is the strength that supports the other layers, as veterans are supported and loved by their friends, family, community and nation.  

The first of the two veterans honored was James Watson.  James is an Army veteran from 1972-1974 where he worked as an electrician.  

The second veteran recognized was Patrick Dotson who seved from 1966-1970. in the Air Force where he served as an administrator stateside while a brother served in Vietnam.  

The quilts are meant to comfort, heal and welcome home the veterans and to thank tham for their dedicated service to the country and the role they played in protecting our freedom. 

WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service State College PA
405 AM EST Thu Nov 21 2024


Warren-McKean-Elk-Cameron-Northern Clinton-Clearfield-Northern
Centre-
Including the cities of Renovo, DuBois, Emporium, Clearfield,
Philipsburg, Ridgway, Bradford, Warren, and St. Marys
405 AM EST Thu Nov 21 2024

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM THIS
AFTERNOON TO 7 AM EST SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 4
  inches.

* WHERE...A portion of central Pennsylvania.

* WHEN...From 1 PM this afternoon to 7 AM EST Saturday. Any snow
  late today will be light. The heaviest snow will fall late tonight
  into Friday morning.

* IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
  conditions could impact the Friday morning commute.

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.

WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
946 AM EST Thu Nov 21 2024


Wyoming-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus-Allegany-Including the cities of Warsaw, Jamestown, Olean, and Wellsville
946 AM EST Thu Nov 21 2024

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING
TO NOON EST FRIDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations 3 to 7 inches. The
  greatest accumulations expected across the higher terrain.

* WHERE...Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany Counties.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to noon EST Friday.

* IMPACTS...Travel will be difficult. The hazardous conditions will
  impact the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Little to no snow accumulation expected at
  lower elevations.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Periods of snow will result in snow covered roads and limited
visibilities. Slow down and use caution while driving.

Submit snow reports through our website or social media.

Be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution while
driving. If you are going outside, be careful on stairs, sidewalks,
and driveways. These surfaces could be icy and slippery, increasing
your risk of a fall and injury.

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service State College PA
405 AM EST Thu Nov 21 2024

Potter-Tioga-Northern Lycoming-Schuylkill-
Including the cities of Pottsville, Trout Run, Coudersport,
Mansfield, and Wellsboro
405 AM EST Thu Nov 21 2024

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THIS AFTERNOON THROUGH
FRIDAY AFTERNOON...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total accumulations over 6 inches
  possible on the ridgetops.

* WHERE...Northern Lycoming, Potter, Schuylkill, and Tioga Counties.

* WHEN...From this afternoon through Friday afternoon. The heaviest
  snow will fall tonight into Friday morning.

* IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
  conditions could impact the Thursday evening and Friday morning
  commutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

Dickinson Center, Inc. (DCI), a non-profit organization and affiliate of Journey Health System, is proud to announce a generous donation from Liberty Pressed Metals (LPM) in support of their “Building for Tomorrow” capital campaign. This vital contribution will aid in the construction of Dickinson’s new facility in St. Marys, ensuring that over 1,200 children and adults receive continued access to high-quality behavioral health annually. 

With mental health challenges affecting both residents and members of the workforce, this support helps strengthen Dickinson’s mission to provide essential services to individuals, children, and families across the region.

COUDERSPORT – Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) announced today his office in Coudersport will operate at a new location starting on Monday, Dec. 2.

The office will now be located at 279 Route 6 West, Office 2. The phone number remains the same at 814-274-9769.

“We are excited to continue serving everyone from our new office location,” Causer said. “Whether you need assistance with state programs, legislation or PennDOT work, we are happy to help.”

An open house is planned at the new office on Tuesday, Dec. 10, from 4-6 p.m.

Services available at the office in Coudersport, as well as the locations in Bradford and Kane, include:

• PennDOT paperwork, including driver’s license and vehicle registration applications and renewals.
• Information and applications for senior citizen benefit programs, including Property Tax/Rent Rebate and PACE/PACENET prescription drug programs.
• Information and applications for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
• Help with securing birth and death certificates (photo identification required).
• Information about legislation.
• Assistance with resolving matters relating to state agencies. 

For more information about Causer’s other office locations or to contact him online, visit www.RepCauser.com.

• Basketmaker, Cathy Snyder, will be teaching a ‘Cookie Basket’ or ‘Handy Tote Basket’ class on Saturday, November 23 9:00-2:00. Price of the class is $40.00-$45.00.  When registering, please choose a basket.  Students are welcome to bring a drink and snack. 

• The Potter County Artisan Center will be celebrating Christmas in a Small Town, by hosting a ‘Christmas Open House’ on Saturday, November 30 from 10:00 – 3:00.  The Coudy Santa will be here for pictures, which are taken by the nationally known photographer Curt Weinhold. Stop in to shop from our juried selection of locally made and original items, while enjoying refreshments, holiday music and a festive atmosphere.  Also, check out our Christmas Tree with ornaments made by local artists!   

• The Coudy Santa and photographer Curt Weinhold will be at the Potter County Artisan Center for Santa Pictures on Saturday, November 30 from 10:00 am – 3:00pm, and Tuesday, December 10 and Tuesday, 17 from 4:00-7:00 pm.  Price of pictures is $30.00.  Choose any two of these photo sizes: (4) 4×5, (2) 5×7, (1) *x10.  Add a second package for an additional $20.00.  Cash or check only.  Price includes sitting fee with jolly Santa.   St. Nick has agreed to stay as long as needed! First come first serve basis.

• Quilter, Brenda Bonczar, will be teaching a children’s sewing class on Monday, December 2, from 10am to 12:30 pm (Coudersport Area School District is closed).  Students will learn to make a holiday or pet themed pillowcase.  Supplies and sewing machines on site.  This class is recommended for students 9 and up.  Price of the class is $35.00. 

• Artist, Laurie Angood, will be teaching an Adult Watercolor Class on Friday, December 6 from 6-8 pm.  Students will be painting Christmas ornaments and cards with watercolor.  Artist quality watercolor paper, paint and other supplies provided.  Gift bag of take-home supplies included. The price of the class is $35.00.

• Young Artisan class will be meeting on Thursday, December 12, from 3 – 4:30 to paint and decorate a  ‘Christmas in a Box.”.   Price of the class is $25.00.  Snack and supplies provided. Recommended for grades 2nd on up. 

• Cathy Snyder, Basket Maker, will be teaching a Holiday Matching Utensil and Napkin Basket class.  Price of the class is $45.00.  Date and time to be announced. 

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. Hours are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday.

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

Congratulations to Julian Seratt, from Building Construction, for being recognized as Student of the Week for the week of November 18th.  Julian is a senior at Northern Potter high school and a dedicated three-year student in the Building Construction Occupations program. Julian demonstrates exceptional commitment to his education and future career goals. Julian plans to follow in his father’s footsteps, joining their family business as an electrician. His strong work ethic, consistent preparedness, and willingness to assist his peers make him a standout in the BCO program. Julian’s positive attitude and dedication to excellence are evident in his impressive course grades and the respect he has earned from his classmates and instructors alike. 

[Bradford, PA] – Over 156 children in the Bradford Area School District, in local Headstart classrooms and through CARE for Children’s Early Intervention program received  brand-new coats this week from the Rotary Club of Bradford.

The project was supported by proceeds from the annual Rotary Golf Tournament, the Blaisdell Foundation and a matching grant from Rotary District #7280. 

“A warm coat is an essential item for children in our community,” said Ben Kirsch, President of the Rotary Club of Bradford.  “We are proud to work with Operation Warm, the Blaisdell Foundation and District #7280 on this initiative to make an impact on our community – especially this year, when more families than ever are in need.”

Jamie Yeager, 63, of 117 Chicken Hill Road, Kersey, PA, was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of death is due to smoke inhalation and this death has been ruled accidental.

by

Pastor B.J. Knefley

Have you happened to take notice that life is more often about what we can do rather than what we can be. We look for things to do in life, what to do for others, what we can contribute to society or our family. But I wonder, what would happen if rather than focus upon what we can do, we started to focus upon what we can be?

GALETON SHARED MINISTRY CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE WILL BE HELD 6:30 PM ON CHRISTMAS EVE. AT THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.

THE COMMUNITY IS INVITED TO ATTEND.

ON 2025 COUNTY TENTATIVE BUDGET

            NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Allegany County Board of Legislators will hold a public hearing on December 10, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Legislative Chambers, Room 221, at the County Office Building, 7 Court Street, Belmont, New York 14813, on the Tentative Budget of said County for its 2025 fiscal year which begins on January 1, 2025, and ends December 31, 2025.

            Copies of the Tentative Budget are available at the office of the Clerk of the Board of Legislators at the County Office Building, Belmont, New York, 14813, during normal business hours, for purposes of inspection or procurement by interested persons. Electronic copies of said budget may be viewed at www.alleganyco.gov.

Belmont, NY – On November 20, 2024, the Allegany County Board of Legislators announced funding from a New York State grant to provide various programs and events for peer-to-peer support for veterans.  The mission of the funding is to assist veterans, service members, and their families to achieve and sustain personal health, wellness, and purpose in their post-service lives through the support of trained veteran peers.

The Tiadaghton Audubon Society, based in Wellsboro, is hosting two Christmas Bird Counts during the winter of 2024-2025. The Cowanesque Circle bird count will be on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 and the annual Wellsboro-Mansfield Circle bird count on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025.

Fourteen singers and instrumentalists, including the five members of Stage Fright and nine guest musicians, will perform selections from The Last Waltz, the famous “farewell” concert given on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 25, 1976 by the Canadian-American roots rock group known as The Band.

Families and pets of all kinds are invited to pose for photos with Santa “Paws,” benefiting Second Chance Animal Sanctuaries. 

Pet Photos with Santa are offered on three dates and locations to choose from, with no appointment needed: 

PennDOT Encourages Homeowners to Winterize Their Mailboxes

Montoursville, PA – As the winter season approaches, it is important that property owners make sure their mailbox is in the correct location to ensure the efficiency of both the mail service and the snow plowing operations. In addition, property owners should also inspect their mailbox to verify it has a strong support.