NEWS

OLEAN, NY – Olean General Hospital (OGH), a Kaleida Health Facility, has recently introduced a new volunteer opportunity within the emergency department (ED) designed to enhance the patient experience by acting as a liaison between patient and staff. The ED ambassador will be seen in the waiting area, offering comfort, reassurance, and a helpful presence for patients and families. Mr. Bill has been the first volunteer to fill the role since the inception of the ED ambassador role.

“I’m sort of the welcoming committee,” said Bill, ED ambassador, OGH. “It’s always great to see the reassurance on the faces of patients who are waiting when they realize that someone is here for them. I fill that role.”

WARREN – Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC) is hosting an inaugural fundraising event – Denim and Diamonds – on Saturday, March 29 to help raise funds towards student scholarships at the institution. The fundraiser is slated to be held at the Timber Haven Event Center at the Cable Hollow Golf Club, located at 405 Norberg Road in Russell from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and will include dinner, a live auction, silent auction, and a giving tree; with a cocktail hour from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

With more than 10 years of commitment to serving the region, initially under the Education Consortium of the Upper Allegheny, NPRC is the local community’s partner in education. The institution is dedicated to responding to the critical needs of local employers and enhancing the skills of the region’s workforce.

Motorists are advised that a bridge replacement project will resume next week on Route 6 in Richmond Township, Tioga County. The bridge, which carries Route 6 over a tributary to North Elk Run, is located approximately 2.8 miles east of Route 660 in Charleston Township and approximately 2.5 miles west of Route 15 in Mansfield.

The week of Monday, March 17, 2025, the contractor, H&P Construction, Inc., will continue work on the temporary roadway and temporary bridge. Motorists traveling Route 6 can expect single lane conditions with flagging.

Road Closure

UPDATE: On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, North Schodac Road and South Schodac Road will be closed at the intersection with Route 6.

Motorists are advised that a multi-year construction project continues on Interstate 80 eastbound and westbound between Danville, Montour County and Limestoneville, Northumberland County.

On Monday, March 17, 2025 and Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the contractor will be working on sign foundations along Interstate 80 between mile markers 219 and 221, which is located just west of Exit 224 (Danville / Route 54), in preparation for upcoming roadwork. Motorists can expect alternating lane restrictions where work is being performed. Work will be performed between the hours of 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM, weather permitting.

Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. is the prime contractor for this $53,138,380 project. Work includes roadway reconstruction, resurfacing, structure replacement, rehabilitation, preservation, lighting, and other miscellaneous work. This multi-year project is expected to be completed in 2027.

Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) met Thursday with UPMC Kane officials to talk about rural health care and the great work the hospital is doing to meet patient needs in the area. He was especially impressed by their enthusiasm for the people and communities they serve and how they use that enthusiasm to help recruit physicians to their facility. The group also talked about the challenges facing rural health care, limited access to services including labor and delivery, and the use of telemedicine to keep access in the region.

Crossroads

by

Pastor B.J. Knefley

In life, we encounter numerous crossroads, moments when we are confronted with choices. Each choice sets us up to make other choices, and each choice has its own set of consequences, perhaps good or bad. The problem is that we often do not consider the consequences of our choices because we do not always make our choices with long-range planning in mind. Immediate gratification, reflecting our wants and desires, has a greater influence on our decisions than we might care to admit.

I have certain food allergies that I must deal with. The problem is that I like food, and even when I eat what I should not eat, I do not experience any immediate problems. It is usually not until the next day that my body reminds me of what I ate the day before. If I have overdone it by eating too much of those foods that are on my “do not eat list,” then I am doubly stressed. Like many of us, I do not remind myself of the cost of having immediate pleasure. Instead, I indulge only to suffer later. There is no one to blame except myself. My choices bring about my own suffering.

To the Jews, Moses said, “Today I am giving you the choice between a blessing and a curse! You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today. You will receive a curse if you reject the commands of the Lord your God and turn from his way by worshiping foreign gods.” (Deut 11:26-28). What was true then is also true today. We bring about our own demise of tomorrow by our choices of today. It does not have to be this way because we do have choices. We can choose to have blessings instead of curses, but we each need to make our choices not on the here and now but on the consequences of tomorrow. Remember, failure is not falling. Failure is not getting back up. If your choices have you in a place that you do not like, then make new ones. Your blessings might just be awaiting you. Think about it.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight one of the most common—and preventable—types of cancer. Despite advances in screening and treatment, colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. However, early detection through routine screenings can make all the difference in preventing and treating this disease.

Understanding Your Risk

Colorectal cancer affects both men and women, and your risk increases with age, particularly after age 45. However, recent trends show a rise in cases among younger adults, making it more important than ever to be aware of symptoms and screening guidelines. Other risk factors include:

• A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• A diet high in red or processed meats and low in fiber
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity and lack of physical activity
• Chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

The Importance of Screening

When Noah Hunt of Muncy steps on the mat on Friday to represent the Pennsylvania College of Technology, he will be one of 210 NCAA Division III wrestlers from across the country and, more importantly, one of 21 competing in the 141-pound weight class seeking a national championship.

The two-day competition at the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island, begins with preliminaries and consolation first round at 10 a.m. on Friday. The championship quarterfinals, consolation second-round wrestle-backs and consolation third-round start at 6 p.m.

On Saturday, championship semifinals, consolation wrestle-back quarterfinals, consolation semifinals and seventh-, fifth- and third-place matches begin at 10 a.m., with the championship finals set for 7 p.m.

2 Day Estate Sale!

March 14 & 15 2025, Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm

808 W. Water St. Smethport, PA 16749

Refrigerator, gas oven, gas dryer, washer, freezer, dressers, pictures, hand tools, power tools, golf balls, clays, piano, dining tables, glassware, vintage gun case, electric recliner, large recliner, love seat, books, stands, lamps, shelves, collector plates, hutches, cookware, kitchenware, copper bucket, and more.

808 W. Water St. Smethport (some GPS units mess up, West end of town). Do not block driveways or park in lawns.

Visit the PA Wilds Conservation Shop in Marienville from April 12 to 25 to see the show

MARIENVILLE, PA – Art students from North Clarion Area High School (NCHS) are getting a chance to show their artwork to the public, and visitors to the PA Wilds Conservation Shop in Marienville can meet these young artists and support them.

The grand opening of the Where the PA Wilds Things Are art display will be held on Saturday, April 12 from noon to 4 p.m. During this grand opening event, visitors will be able to meet the artists, show their support for them and purchase locally made artisan products.

Congratulations to our Port Allegany wrestlers who medaled at state!

In each of their respective weight classes:

Aiden Bliss – 3rd

Juuso Young – 6th

Carson Neely – 8th

You have all made Port Allegany proud. Great job!

Original post HERE

The Student of the Week for the week of March 10, 2025 is Zachary Erickson from Homeland Security. Zachary is a senior at Smethport Area School District.  He has been nominated for his consistent preparedness for class. Zachary is actively engaged during lessons, participating thoughtfully, and asking insightful questions that reflect on the trade. These contributions enhance class discussions and demonstrate a genuine interest in the subject matter. 

WHAT: Rep. Donna Scheuren (R-Montgomery) will be hosting a press conference in Harrisburg with members of the House Republican Caucus regarding legislation she has proposed to put a constitutional amendment before the people of Pennsylvania that, if passed, would bar illegal aliens from having driver licenses.

WHO:Scheuren; members of the House Republican Caucus.

WHEN: Monday, March 17, at 11 a.m.

WHERE: Pennsylvania State Capitol East Wing, left of escalators, 501 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg, PA.

LIVESTREAM: Barring any technical difficulties, the press conference will be streamed online at www.repscheuren.com and on Scheuren’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RepScheuren.

If March sunshine has you thinking about mouthwatering tomatoes and cucumbers, don’t miss out on a space at the Potter County Community Garden. The application process began in mid-January, and we ONLY HAVE 4 BEDS LEFT! The garden officially opens on April 26^th for planting cold-hearty vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and cabbage. Then June 7^th marks the warm planting season. Whether you’ve gardened before or are a newbie, all are welcome at PCCG.

The mission of the community garden is 1) to empower the community to plant, grow and harvest their own produce, 2) to provide education on the value of gardening, 3) to promote community interaction & unity, and 4) to offer solutions to food insecurity. The Potter County Community Garden is a joint-partnership between UPMC, the Potter County Commissioners, Potter County Conservation, and Penn State Extension.

Any individuals or group interested in reserving a community garden plot free of charge should email pccg2022@gmail.com or visit http://pottercountycommunitygarden.org to apply online or find out more.

CERES TOWNSHIP MEETING MINUTES       MARCH 4, 2025

AJ Plants: (716)244-8585                      Greg Maxson: (716)474-8272                            Jeff Moyer: (814)203-6262

The March 4, 2025 meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Anthony Plants with three supervisors, five residents, and secretary present. The minutes of the February 4, 2025 meeting were read and approved by Greg Maxson and Seconded by Jeff Moyer.

Minutes of the February 4, 2025 meeting were read and approved.

OLD BUSINESS:  Resolution for Tax Collector to collect fee for duplicate tax bill and returned checks.  Twenty-five ton of salt ordered from Costars.  Solar Panel Ordinance info submitted to Alferi & Alferi.  Building Permit Fee increased to $25.00 per application.  Resolution signed for Small Flow System yearly inspection fee $350.00 for David Nease new small flow system. Resolution to notify Tax Collector of all ownership and address changes.

NEW BUSINESS :  The Auditors Report was submitted to the Supervisors. Motions were made and approved to discontinue HP Ink agreement for automatic shipment of print cartridges and a fifty dollar donation to Eldred Conservation Club. Busy Beaver will be performing daylighting of Powerhouse Road. Bruce Osgood complaint of rat infestation. Complaint to Township of trailer of animal carcasses sitting by road for prolonged period of time. Multi Modal grant was awarded to Township for resurfacing Barden Brook Road. Motion made and approved for Grant application be submitted to Wildfire Defense for mowing tractor and Application for 2% state loan for mowing tractor to be completed.

$15 per meal. Door prize ticket included, additional raffles available for purchase.

Cornbeef, cabbage, potatoe, dessert, and beverages.

Please come support a great non-profit supporting the community. We provide clothing items for children along with supporting other meaningful causes that support the community. We even offer coats to children outside of Eldred, we support our area and need your support in return! Thank you.

After a fall season that produced just one win for the combined Pennsylvania College of Technology men’s and women’s tennis teams, second-year coach David Straub is hopeful for improved spring showings for his squads.

The Penn College men open at home at the Central PA Tennis Center at 2 p.m. on Saturday, hosting Penn State Altoona. The women start on Friday, March 21, hosting King’s College, also at the South Williamsport indoor facility.

United East Conference play begins on March 29 for both teams.

(McKean County, March 11, 2025):  District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer announced today that she will not be running in the upcoming election to fill a vacancy in the county’s 2^nd judge seat left after the retirement of Judge Hauser in 2024. 

McKean County has two County Judges – President Judge John Pavlock and the position formerly filled by Judge Hauser that is temporarily filled pending the upcoming election results. 

DA Vettenburg-Shaffer:  “Over the last several years, and, with more urgency in the last few months, I have received numerous inquiries on my intentions as to the judgeship that was expected to be vacated when one of our Judges retired.  In 2024, applicants submitted letters of interest seeking to be appointed to the position on a temporary basis.  I declined to submit my name for consideration for the temporary appointment and, now, I am announcing I will not run to fill the seat formerly.  Myself, and other senior members of our bar association, understand our obligations to ensure that the legal system in the County runs efficiently. To that end, I have decided to remain as the District Attorney and in the role that I believe I am currently able to serve most effectively.  I have been the District Attorney since 2016 and I am very proud of our accomplishments (the DA’s Office and McKean County Law Enforcement) and we continue to work to fulfill the criminal justice goals we have set.  In fact, we are not done with the work I envision for our local criminal justice system. 

I appreciate the important role of Judge and I hold it with the utmost respect.  And I hold the position of District Attorney with similar respect.  At the present time, my focus will remain on prosecution and community outreach for which I am very fortunate to have a voice.”  

** On October 9th, 2024, at approximately 0014 hours, City of Bradford Police responded to a call at the Holiday Inn Express, located at 30 Tarport Drive, regarding a large box truck striking the building and parked motor vehicles before fleeing the scene. Upon arrival, officers located the box truck in the downtown area and attempted a traffic stop. The operator, later identified as John Albert McWhinnie of Shelburne Falls, MA, fled from the vehicle on foot to evade officer contact.

Further investigation revealed that the box truck had been stolen from the Bradford Era, located at 43 Main Street, prior to the incident. The stolen vehicle had caused extensive damage to several parked vehicles and the Holiday Inn Express building, resulting in a large hole in one of the bedrooms and significant damage to the front overhang drive-through. Through diligent efforts, including scouring video footage and conducting numerous interviews, City Police were able to identify the driver as John Albert McWhinnie. It was determined that McWhinnie had fled the Bradford area back to Massachusetts. On March 10, 2025, the City of Bradford Police had McWhinnie extradited back to Pennsylvania, where he was arraigned by Magistrate Richard Luther.

McWhinnie was remanded to the McKean County Jail after failing to post $150,000 cash bail. Preliminary hearings are scheduled in the matter. The City of Bradford Police Department would like to thank the public for their cooperation and assistance in this investigation. The department is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community and will continue to work tirelessly to bring those responsible for criminal activity to justice.