NEWS

On May23rd Port Allegany Fire Department was dispatched to N. Open Brook Rd. for a tree down in the roadway

DeFrank Honors Veterans, Public Service and the Lasting Meaning of Memorial Day During Public Meeting Remarks

HARRISBURG –Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) Chairman Steve DeFrank reflected on the meaning of Memorial Day during remarks delivered at the Commission’s May public meeting, honoring the sacrifices of fallen service members while encouraging Pennsylvanians to reflect on the responsibilities that accompany the freedoms Americans enjoy today.

DeFrank noted that Memorial Day is more than the unofficial start of summer, calling the holiday “a reminder of real people, real families, and real sacrifices made in service to something larger than themselves.”

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“Memorial Day reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy today came at an enormous cost,” DeFrank said. “Those freedoms are not abstract concepts. They include the freedom to speak openly, to disagree respectfully, to advocate for change, and to raise concerns when people feel unheard or overlooked. Honoring those freedoms does not require all of us to agree on every issue, but it does require us to continue seeing one another as fellow citizens who share responsibilities to each other and to the future of this country.…

On May 23rd Smethport Fire and Ambulance and Rew Fire Department were dispatched to 5791 Rt. 46 for a multiple vehicle crash with possible injuries the road is also shutdown

Free screening includes whiskey tasting & director talk back, rain or shine!

BRADFORD, PA —The new WPSU documentary screening of the Whiskey Rebellion will be shown at the Kane Family Drive-In on Wednesday, May 27, as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. This screening is open to the public and is free to attend.

Gates open at 7 p.m. with Rebellion Row, featuring local whiskey distillers offering samples. The screening begins at 8:30 p.m. Director Kristian Berg will host a behind-the-scenes Q&A before the film.

The Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau and Kane Development Center has partnered with WPSU to present this half-hour documentary, which explores a defining and often overlooked moment in Pennsylvania and U.S. history. Whiskey Rebellion examines the early struggle to balance federal authority with individual liberties.

Whiskey Rebellion tells the story of the nation’s first major domestic crisis, sparked by Alexander Hamilton’s 1791 tax on domestic spirits. The tax placed a heavy burden on western frontier farmers who relied on distilling grain into whiskey for economic survival. Resistance in western Pennsylvania escalated into violence, including attacks on tax collectors by protestors, many of them Revolutionary War veterans. When negotiations failed in 1794, President George Washington led 13,000 troops to suppress the uprising, marking the only time a sitting U.S. president personally commanded troops in the field. The Whiskey Rebellion ultimately affirmed the supremacy of the Constitution and the federal government’s authority to enforce its laws.

WPSU is a public media organization serving communities across Central Pennsylvania with news, education, and cultural programming.

The free showing is sponsored in part by the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau and the Kane Family Drive-In.

For more information, contact the Kane Area Development Center at 814-837-6565 or director@kanepa.com.

CARE for Children, through its leadership of the Safe Kids Pennsylvania- McKean County Partnership, has successfully completed its 2026 Kindergarten Bicycle Safety Program, providing more than 400 free bicycle helmets and bicycle safety education to Kindergarten students across McKean County and in Coudersport, PA.

The initiative delivered age-appropriate bicycle safety programming in six local school districts: Bradford Area, Kane Area, Smethport Area, Port Allegany, Otto-Eldred, and Coudersport Area. Every child who participated received a properly fitted bicycle helmet, a helmet identification sticker, and bicycle safety materials to take home to parents and caregivers.

“This program gives children the opportunity to learn important bicycle safety habits early while also ensuring they have access to a properly fitted helmet,” said Kimberly Engstrom, M.Ed., CARE Preschool Director and Child Safety Educator. “We want children and families to understand that helmets save lives and that safe riding habits can make a lasting difference.”

The CARE-led program featured the book “Play It Safe” by Mercer Mayer to teach students the basics of bicycle safety, including proper helmet use, hand signals, and obeying traffic signs. The effort aimed to increase helmet use and encourage lifelong safety habits.

The project exceeded its goals: 95% of local Kindergarten students received a helmet; students expressing willingness to wear helmets increased by more than 50%; 100% of the Kindergarten teachers agreed the program was age-appropriate and beneficial.

“Programs like this are especially important in rural communities where families may face barriers to purchasing safety equipment,” said Tina M. Martin, Executive Director of CARE for Children. “By working together with funders, schools, volunteers, and community partners, we are helping children stay safe while building positive lifelong habits.”

Pennsylvania law requires children under the age of 12 to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle or while riding as a passenger in a bicycle restraining seat or trailer. The law is intended to encourage helmet use and reduce preventable head injuries among children.

The Safe Kids Pennsylvania – McKean County Partnership first launched the initiative in 2016 and has since expanded countywide, reaching hundreds of students annually. In communities with higher poverty rates, the program helps remove financial barriers to safety equipment while reinforcing important injury prevention education.

This year’s success was made possible through partnerships with local school districts, members of the Safe Kids Pennsylvania – McKean County Partnership Advisory Council, volunteers, and community partners including representatives from the United Way, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, PennDOT, the Highway Safety Network, and the Rotary Club of Port Allegany.

This project is funded, in part, through grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Port Allegany and Smethport Campaigns for United Way, and the Kane United Fund. Additional Safe Kids programming is supported by the CARE for Children Trust, the ARG- Our Legacy Fund, held at the McKean County Community Foundation, the United Way of the Bradford Area, Inc., grants, sponsorships, and individual donations.

Safe Kids Pennsylvania – McKean County Partner is a collaborative effort of local organizations, businesses, and individuals working together to support child safety and injury prevention efforts targeted to local needs. CARE for Children provides leadership, fiscal oversight, and administrative support for the program.

For more information about CARE for Children programs or to support local child safety initiatives, please visit www.careforchildren.info.

Those who preregister for the Laurel Festival 10K Foot Race on or before next Friday, May 29 at 4 p.m. at the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce office or online by Saturday, May 30 at the chamber website at www.wellsboropa.com and pay the $25 entry fee will be guaranteed a free event T-shirt courtesy of First Citizens Community Bank on race day, Saturday, June 20 and be entered in the June 20 “Early Bird Drawing” with a chance to win $25 in Wellsboro Chamber Dollars to spend at any of the participating businesses.   

10K registration will continue online at www.wellsboropa.com from Sunday, May 31 until 11:59 a.m. Wednesday, June 17 and in person at the chamber office on weekdays from Monday, June 1 until noon on June 17. Those who register for the 10K on those dates will not be guaranteed a free event T-shirt and will not be entered in the “Early Bird Drawing.”   

Registration for the Two-Mile Fun Run/Walk, including payment of the $5 entry fee, is also being held on all those dates from May 29 through June 17 in person at the chamber office and online at the chamber website.

Barbara J. VanSickles, 82, of Smethport, formerly of Port Allegany passed away Friday (May 22, 2026) at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, surrounded by her family

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany.

On May 23rd Wellsboro, Tioga, and Deerfield Fire Departments were dispatched to 1934 Rt. 249 in Middlebury Twp for a structure fire all occupants were able to leave the residence this is a second alarm fire

Kettle Cuisine of Lynn, MA is recalling 24oz cups of Whole Foods Market Kitchen Minestrone Soup which may contain undeclared shrimp. People who have allergies to Crustacean Shellfish (Shrimp) run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

The recalled retail cups of soup were distributed to the following states; AL, CT, DC, FL, GA, MA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, in Whole Foods retail stores and nationwide through online sales on the Whole Foods and Amazon website.

The recalled product is packaged in a 24-ounce, clear plastic cup marked with a Lot Code: 1762181 Use By 05/27/26 on the top rim of the cup, and with the UPC identifier of 099482502065 on the back label.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this soup.

View Full Recall

Spring Projects, Outdoor Work, and Everyday Electrical Safety Remain Key Focuses Across Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG – As Pennsylvania observes National Electrical Safety Month this May, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is encouraging residents, contractors, and businesses to stay alert around electrical equipment, overhead power lines, and underground utilities during the busy spring and summer work season.

The PUC noted that warmer weather brings an increase in outdoor home projects, landscaping work, construction activity, storm cleanup, and utility maintenance — all of which can create serious electrical hazards if proper precautions are not followed.

“Electricity powers nearly every aspect of modern life, but it also requires constant awareness and respect,” said PUC Vice Chair Kimberly Barrow. “Whether you are trimming trees, using ladders, digging for a home improvement project, or cleaning up after storms, it is important to stay aware of nearby utility lines and energized equipment.”

Outdoor and Worksite Safety

The PUC reminds consumers and contractors to always be aware of overhead and underground utility lines before beginning any project.

Key safety reminders…

View this press release on our website

Olean, NY — Olean General Hospital (OGH), a Kaleida Health facility, is proud to announce the reopening of the Mildred Milliman Radiation Medicine Center and the return of radiation oncology services, anchored by a new state-of-the-art Varian TrueBeam 4.1 linear accelerator. Following months of renovation and investment, the center is now welcoming patients and delivering advanced radiation therapy close to home for residents across the region.

The reopening goes beyond a technology upgrade. The project completely reimagined the patient experience — pairing leading-edge treatment technology with a thoughtfully redesigned healing environment centered on comfort, dignity and compassionate care.

Rushford, NY – When the Allegany County Democrats met for “Coffee with Democrats” in April, they
collected pounds and pounds of non-perishable food and personal care items to be donated to the Rushford Food Pantry.

According to Pantry coordinator Bonnie Cady, “We serve nearly two dozen families each month, and are always grateful for donations like this one, particularly cereals, desserts, and snacks. We can serve our community because others support us.”

The Rushford Food Pantry is located on Lower St. in Rushford and is open every 3rd Saturday of the month from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.  Those needing assistance can call 716-801-5415 for more information.

HARRISBURG, PA – With Memorial Day being the unofficial kickoff to summer, the Pennsylvania Game Commission reminds those spending time in the great outdoors to leave young wildlife alone. 

While some young animals might appear to be abandoned, usually they are not. It’s likely their mothers are watching over them from somewhere nearby. When encountering young wild animals, whether deer, birds, raccoons or something else, the best thing you can do is leave them alone.

“Mid-to-late spring and early summer are popular times of the year for humans to encounter newborn and young wildlife on the landscapes,” said Pennsylvania Game Commission Bureau of Wildlife Management Director Matthew Schnupp. “Whether enjoying their backyards or recreating in the woods or water, it’s common for humans to witness the new generation of wildlife in their natural habitats. The best thing people can do when encountering any wildlife is to simply let them be.”

On May 23rd Port Allegany Ambulance was dispatched to E. Vine St. For a cardiac emergency

On May 23rd Bradford Twp. Fire Department was dispatched to 881 Interstate Parkway for a tree down

The Children’s Advocacy Center of McKean County (CACMC) is seeking qualified candidates for the Family Advocate position. Reporting to the Director of the Center, the Family Advocate serves as the primary contact for children and non-offending caregivers, providing trauma-informed support, guidance, and resources throughout the investigative and healing process.

In addition to direct services, the Family Advocate contributes to community prevention efforts and maintains the organization’s social media presence to support outreach, education, and awareness.

Additional responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Greeting and orientation of children and their families to the CACMC. Explain the CAC process, including forensic interviews, medical exams, and legal proceedings in a clear and compassionate manner.
• Provide crisis intervention, ongoing emotional support, and victim supportive counseling to children and non-offending caregivers.
• Connect families with appropriate community resources and make referrals for follow-up. Maintains regular follow-ups with families to ensure continued support and access to services.
• Keep families informed about the status of criminal proceedings and offer court advocacy, including accompaniment and preparation for legal proceedings when appropriate.

Education and experience qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, criminal justice or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience equal to a minimum of three (3) years working with child victims of abuse.
• A minimum of two (2) years of professional experience working with children and families, preferably in trauma-informed or advocacy settings. The successful candidate must have the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

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

On May 22nd Whitesville, and, Independence fire Departments were dispatched to 823 Spicier Rd. for a possible saw mill on fire. Update all units have been recalled

Sizerville State Park

Environmental Education Programs Weekend of May 29th Program Title: Skins & SkullsDate: Saturday, May 30th Time: 3:00 PMLocation: Environmental Learning CenterDescription: At this program, we will look at different skulls and furs of animals and birds common to the PA Wilds. There will be a variety of skulls and furs to look at and ask questions about. This program is open for all ages!

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Program Title: Film in the Forest: OspreyDate: Saturday, May 30th Time: 8:00 PMLocation: Campground AmphitheaterDescription: Did you know that Ospreys live on every continent except Antarctica? Join the park educator for a program to learn all about this fish hawk. Short talk followed by a movie—feel free to bring snacks and a blanket!

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Additional Information: To register for a program, go to the DCNR Calendar of Events website, search Sizerville State Park, find the program listed, and click on the Register button right under the program date, time, and location. For more information or questions about registering, please contact the Environmental Learning Center at (814) 486-5609.

On May 22nd Wellsville Fire Department was dispatched to 62 N. Main St. for a fire alarm

On May 22nd Shinglehouse Ambulance was dispatched to S. West St. for seizures

On May 22nd Port Allegany Ambulance was dispatched to Chestnut St. for an assault victim

On May 18, 2026, at approximately 9:16 PM, officers of the City of Bradford Police Department responded to the North Bennett Street entrance of BRMC for a report of a stabbing victim.

The victim had walked to the hospital while suffering from a stab wound to the abdomen; however, upon arrival, he discovered the hospital had closed and subsequently had to call 911 for help. Upon officers’ arrival, it was confirmed that the victim had sustained a stab wound. Due to the severity of the injury, the victim was transported by medical helicopter to the Penn Highlands DuBois for further treatment. During the investigation, officers learned the victim had been walking on the trail near Country Fair when he became involved in a verbal altercation with a black male later identified as Adrian Washington (DOB: 07/02/1982). According to the victim, Washington initially left the area following the confrontation but later returned armed with a “katana”-style sword.

A second verbal altercation then occurred, during which Washington allegedly stabbed the victim. Witnesses on scene provided statements consistent with the victim’s account and described the suspect as a black male with braids or dreadlocks wearing a blue jersey-style shirt. Through further investigation, including the review of surveillance footage and witness identification procedures, Adrian Washington was positively identified as the individual responsible for the stabbing. Both the victim and multiple witnesses independently identified Washington as the suspect involved in the incident.

On today’s date, officers located and took Adrian Washington into custody without incident. Washington was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and was arraigned before MDJ Richard Luther. Bail was set at $200,000 straight. Unable to post bail, Washington was remanded to the McKean County Jail pending further court proceedings.

Alumnus Carlyle Conn makes a gift to support Clays Target Team

BRADFORD, Pa. — Carlyle Conn, a University of Pittsburgh at Bradford alumnus and former competitive marksman, has created an endowed fund to enhance the operations and success of the university’s Clays Target Team. The fund will support student-athletes in being able to compete at a high level while also gaining a high-quality education.

                “I was extremely proud to be able to support two things that are very close to my heart, Pitt-Bradford and shooting sports,” Conn says. “The team has gotten off to an amazing start, and I am very pleased to be able to contribute to team members’ growth both on the shooting range and in the classroom.”

Customers – especially at-risk households – encouraged to review usage and explore affordability options before peak summer temperatures arrive

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is alerting consumers that electric generation prices for all PUC-regulated electric utilities will adjust on June 1 – just as summer temperatures and air-conditioning use begin increasing electricity demand across Pennsylvania.

Summer electric bills are influenced by two major factors: the market price of electricity and the amount of electricity used during periods of hot weather. While June 1 generation price adjustments may increase supply costs for many customers, extended heat waves and heavier air-conditioning use can have an even larger impact on total monthly bills.

The PUC encourages consumers to prepare now by reviewing their energy usage, exploring conservation opportunities, and to #CallUtilitiesNow to discuss tools like budget billing, payment arrangements, and other available assistance programs if they are concerned about summer bills.

More than 200 UPMC in North Central Pa. nurses gathered at Bald Birds Brewing Company in Jersey Shore on Wednesday, May 6, to celebrate each other at the annual Nurses Recognition and Awards Banquet.

“As I have continued to acclimate to this region, what I see time and time again is dedication. Dedication to one another, to our communities, and to the patients and families we are privileged to serve. I see teams supporting teams, leaders leaning in, and nurses showing up with heart, skill, and resilience,” said Teresa Conyers, chief nursing officer, and vice president, Patient Care Services, UPMC North Central Pa. “This year’s system theme is “Because of You” and I cannot think of a phrase that better reflects what nursing represents. Because of you, patients feel safe. Because of you, families feel heard. Because of you, learning, innovation, and progress are happening right here at UPMC North Central Pa.”

Plans for Hybrid In-Person and Virtual Meeting

Tuesday, June 9, 2026

HARRISBURG – A total of 265 disciplinary actions, including 121 education requirements and $183,750 in administrative penalties, have been taken against 151 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 May 2026 meeting.

The next meeting of the DPC is Tuesday, June 9, 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 546 601 537# 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 “hits” on undergro…

View this press release on our website

PA Wilds Center will be distributing $80,000 to 20 organizations based in the Pennsylvania Wilds, as part of the 2026 PA Wilds Community Engagement Mini-Grant program. Each recipient will receive $4,000 to support a project within the rural 13-county region.

Grant award recipients include:

• Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau (McKean County)
• Amoeba Media (Lycoming County)
• Art in the Wilds, Inc. (McKean County)
• Cameron County Chamber of Commerce (Cameron County)
• City of Lock Haven (Clinton County)
• Clinton County Economic Partnership (Clinton County)
• Cosmos’ Lounge (McKean County)
• Denton Hill Ski Patrol – Nordic (Potter County)
• East Brady Area Development Corporation (Clarion County)
• Heath Township Sportsmen’s Club (Jefferson County)
• Johnsonburg Community Trust (Elk County)
• Keystone Elk Country Alliance (Multi-County)
• Lane’s End Farm Creamery and The Scoop Shoppe (Jefferson County)
• Lumber Heritage Region of Pennsylvania, Inc. (Multi-County)
• Mechanistic Brewing (Clarion County)
• Northern Appalachian Discovery Museum (McKean County)
• PA Made (Elk County)
• Rail 66 Country Trail (Clarion County)
• The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle (Centre County)
• Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry (Warren County)

August 30, 1961 — May 19, 2026

Mark S. Wolfel, 64, of St. Marys, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, following a lifetime defined by unending kindness, a gentle spirit, and heart that touched all who had the privilege of knowing him.He was born on August 30, 1961 in St. Marys, PA, a son of the late Raymond “Joe” and Yolanda Dragone Wolfel.

On September 19, 2013, in Key West, FL, he married Diane “Missy” Ginther Wolfel, who survives. Together they’ve shared many years of love, laughter and many fun traveling adventures.

Mark was a graduate of Elk Christian High School, Class of 1979. Mark retired after driving truck for many years at Alpha Precision Group. Mark found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments-casting a line into quiet waters, feeling the warmth of the sun at the beach, and spending countless hours outdoors surrounded by the beauty of nature. He treasured time spent around a card table, playing cards with friends, where stories were shared and laughter was plentiful. But more than any hobby or pastime, he will be remembered for the way he treated others.

He possessed a true servant’s heart-always willing to lend a hand, offer quiet support, or put someone else’s needs ahead of his own without expecting anything in return. Exceptionally kind and gentle, he carried himself with humility and warmth, treating every person he met with respect, patience, and compassion. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. His greatest joy and proudest role in life was being “Big Mo” to his beloved grandchildren, who adored him beyond measure. To them, he was a steady presence, a gentle soul, and a grandfather whose love, kindness, and unwavering devotion created memories that will live on in the hearts of his beloved grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Diane “Missy” Wolfel, he is survived by five children; Molly (Nick) DeStephano of Ridgway, Danielle Wolfel of Natrona Heights, Devin (Tammy) Weis of St. Marys, Steve (Amber) Weis of Treasure Lake, and Jake (Haley) Weis of St. Marys; and by his seven beloved grandchildren; Beau, Carter, Marshall, Lucy, Avery, Hudson, and Ziggy. He is also survived by two siblings; Mike (Darla) Wolfel and Rose (Dewey) Schaut both of St. Marys, and by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mark was preceded in death by his niece; Chanel Wolfel.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Mark S. Wolfel will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Marys Church, 315 Church Street, St. Marys, PA, 15957 with Fr. Thomas Curry, OSB, as celebrant.

Burial will follow in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 4:00 PM-6:00PM. 

Rather than flowers, the family would welcome contributions to the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh at givetochildren.org

Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mark S. Wolfel, please visit our flower store.