This Friday, Nov. 29 at 7:30 p.m. in the Coolidge Theatre at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro, 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.
One of the most spectacular events in rock history, The Last Waltz was presented in the Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco, California, the same venue where The Band debuted in 1968.
Hunters Have Opportunity for Popular Buck and Doe Raffle
Bradford, Pa.: The Kinzua Quality Deer Cooperative (KQDC) announces that they will once again offer their popular buck and antlerless deer raffle at their TWO DEER CHECK STATIONS this year on SR 59 and SR 346. All deer will be weighed, measured, and aged for FREE for hunters. Each hunter bringing in a deer for checking will also receive a ticket on a cash raffle. Hunters bringing in antlerless deer will be eligible for a $500 raffle. Hunters bringing in an antlered deer will be eligible for a $250 raffle.
The days of operation will be Saturday, Sunday, Monday, November 30-December 2 and Saturday, December 7. Hours of operation will be 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. all four days. Hunters will receive a fluorescent orange KQDC hat for bringing their deer to the check station.
One KQDC deer check station will be in Marshburg along SR 59 again this year. The check station will be 0.4 miles east of Timberdoodle Flats at the John Perkins Parking Lot. Wooden signs on sawhorses will be placed along SR 59 and at Timberdoodle Flats to direct hunters to the check station.
The second KQDC deer check station will be at the Willows Restaurant on SR 346 along Willow Creek in Corydon Township about four miles east of the Willow Bay Recreation Area. The GPS address is 2669 West Washington Street.
The KQDC is managed for Quality Deer and a Quality Forest Ecosystem to provide a Quality Hunting experience. Other goals are to provide quality forests for landowners to manage for timber products, local employment, numerous outdoor recreation activities, and quality habitat for all wildlife.
The Kinzua Quality Deer Cooperative is an on-going demonstration, begun in 2000, of how hunting can be used to meet the goals of multiple publics for managing deer. A partnership of forest landowners, forest managers, biologists, hunters, and local businesses developed the program which relies on hunters to manage deer density on a representative forested area. The program is conducted on a 74,000-acre forested demonstration area in northwestern Pennsylvania.
Bradford Area Public Library, Executive Director, Rebecca Feightner has taken a leadership role at the state level with her election to the position of Chair for the Pennsylvania Northwest Chapter of the Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLa). She will assume her role of Chair beginning in January 2025. During 2024, she served as Vice Chair for the chapter.
Founded in 1901, the Pennsylvania Library Association is the state’s oldest professional library organization serving libraries, library employees, library trustees, and Friends of the Library groups. PaLa represents more than 1,300 personal, institutional, and commercial members affiliated with public, academic, special, and school libraries throughout the commonwealth. The association represents the profession in Harrisburg with the state legislature and provides opportunities for professional growth, leadership development and continuing education for librarians.
The Northwest chapter consists of Crawford, Elk, Erie, Forest, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Venango, and Warren counties. Membership in each of the eight PaLa chapters is a mix of library type (i.e. school, public, archival, academic, etc.) and professional interests. Each chapter consists of an executive committee that is comprised of several positions. In her new role, Feightner will preside over two formal annual meetings, as well as monthly virtual gatherings.
Port Allegany, PA – The students and staff of the Seneca Highlands Career and Technical Center (SHCTC) came together in the spirit of giving this Thanksgiving season, completing a highly successful food drive that showcased the generosity and community spirit of the SHCTC family.
The drive, led by the dedicated students in the Networking program, collected an impressive total of nearly 800 non-perishable food items. These donations were distributed to members of the SHCTC family in need, ensuring they could celebrate the holiday with nourishment.
“Our students worked tirelessly to organize and promote this initiative, and the response was incredible,” said Mr. Bryant, the Networking shop instructor. “This project exemplifies what makes our community so special – the willingness to step up and support one another.”
The food drive is one of many ways SHCTC prepares students for the future, teaching not only technical skills but also the importance of leadership, collaboration, and community service.
To everyone who donated or helped in any way, the SHCTC students and staff extend their heartfelt gratitude. This Thanksgiving, the SHCTC family proved that when a community comes together, it can make a meaningful difference.
For more updates and news, follow SHCTC on social media and at iu9ctc.org
Cherry Springs and Lyman Run State Parks are pleased to offer the following winter programs for December 2024 and January 2025. Come out to stargaze, walk, or learn about animals in winter! All programs listed are free. Registration isn’t required for in-person activities, but you can sign up to receive a weather update a few days before the program. Register using the links below. Email Susan at sschenck@pa.gov or call 814-435-5010 ext. 2 with any further questions.
Cherry Springs State Park Programs – December 2024
In-person programs –Registration optional
Saturday, December 14 – Full Moon Walk or Snowshoe
7 PM – 8 PM – Park in the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field Lot
Take a moonlit evening stroll along crisp, wintery landscape. Join a park educator for a 1.5 mile walk along level ground on the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field. Snowshoes will be available as conditions and attendance allow. Learn about winter constellations and folklore along the way with a laser-guided tour of the night sky. Telescopes available if conditions are favorable. After the hike, sip on warm hot chocolate or tea by a fire in the historic CCC pavilion.
Saturday, December 21 – Nature Journaling and Tea
10 AM – 11:30 AM – Historic CCC Pavilion
Unwind from a stressful December by spending time in nature. Go on a short walk for inspiration, then return to the fireside to practice nature journaling while sipping on warm tea and hot chocolate. No experience or artistic talent needed. Materials provided or bring your own. Intended for adults and teens. Note that program takes place in a historic pavilion, while there are walls and a cozy fireplace, there is no central heat.
Saturday, December 28 – Year End Stargazing Stroll
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM – Night Sky Public Viewing Area
Wrap up 2024 with a starry evening stroll along crisp, wintery landscape. Join the park educator for a 1.5 mile walk along level ground in the Night Sky Public Viewing Area. Snowshoes will be available as conditions allow. Telescopes available if conditions are favorable. Learn about winter constellations and folklore along the way with a laser-guided tour of the night sky. Program will end by 7:30 PM, leaving time for all your Saturday night plans. All ages. Please wear warm clothes and sturdy winter boots. No pre-registration required, all ages.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need is underway, and the Allegany County Democratic Committee is leading the effort in our area.
Donations of new unwrapped toys, new and gently used coats, and new school supplies are being sought to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season.
“Together, we can spread joy and hope this holiday season by supporting our community-based organizations through New York’s statewide Toy, Coat and School Supply Drive,” Governor Hochul said. “Every item collected is a reminder that kindness and generosity can brighten the lives of our children and families in need.”
Northern Potter Royalty teamed up with the Office Of Veteran’s Affairs Representative Rene Kicklighter and NPSD to bring joy to troops currently deployed this holiday season. Potter County Fair Queen Kayla Hyde and Maple Ambassador Alternate Marian Hamilton visited the 7th grade classroom to talk to kids about service, sacrifice, and supporting our troops. Students throughout the district were invited to bring goodies in to send overseas and create cards and pictures.
Everyone has off days. Maybe you feel reluctant to get out of bed because it’s still dark out, or you turn down invitations you’d usually accept. You might find yourself endlessly flipping through TV channels because it’s too cold to enjoy the outdoors. But are these just winter blues, or something more?
Many people notice changes in mood or routines during the winter. If these feelings come and go within a few days or affect only part of the day, it’s likely just a temporary dip. You may even recognize a trigger, such as stress at work, a recent loss, or significant life changes.
However, when these feelings persist for two weeks or more, it may be time to take action. Depression, if untreated, can disrupt work, relationships, and overall health. Common signs of depression include:
Feeling sad or down most of the day, nearly every day (in children, this might appear as anger or irritability)
Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy
Weight changes
Sleep disturbances (too much or too little)
Trouble focusing or concentrating
For about 5% of people in the U.S., especially in northern states, these symptoms may appear each winter and ease up in the spring. This is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression tied to seasonal changes. SAD often comes with cravings for sweets or starches, and people with SAD may find themselves sleeping up to 2.5 hours more each winter. When these symptoms arrive and depart around the same time each year, it’s a strong indicator of SAD.
BRADFORD, PA—Open Arms Community Church is thrilled to announce the launch of its Church for All capital campaign, an inspiring initiative to ensure their new building becomes fully accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. With the church’s anticipated move to its new location in downtown Bradford in the spring of 2025, this project demonstrates a profound commitment to creating a welcoming space where every individual feels they are included and valued.
The Church for All campaign aims to raise $200,000 to fund critical accessibility improvements for the Congress Street building. Key upgrades include: a Handicap-Accessible Ramp at the main entrance, involving adjustments to the doorframe to accommodate the proper ramp length, an Elevator System to provide access to all three floors for individuals unable to walk or navigate stairs, and handicap-Accessible Restrooms on the main floor, designed for comfort and convenience. Currently, the Congress Street building lacks adequate accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. The Church for All project is a step forward in creating an environment that reflects the inclusive love of God.
“This year, we’re rallying together to build something truly special—a Church for All,” said Zoe Hatcher, lead pastor of Open Arms Community Church. “Our dream is to show God’s love by creating a space where no one is left out.”
Donald J. “Donnie” Crosby, 74, of Coudersport, formerly of Austin, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Sunday, November 24, 2024.
Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.
(From left to right) Sean Mcnamee, St. Bonaventure University major gifts officer; Melissa DeRose, St. Bonaventure University major gifts officer; Karen Fohl, Mark Wilson, Tar Enterprise LLC director of finance, Marianne Laine, Erin Tarana, Blake Tarana, Southern Tier Tim Hortons owner; Steve Jackson, Olean General Hospital Foundation president.
Two outstanding members of the local community, Marianne Laine and Blake Tarana, were celebrated for their philanthropic contributions at the National Philanthropy Day luncheon in Buffalo on November 14th. The event, hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Western New York (AFP of WNY), recognized individuals and organizations making a profound impact across Western New York. St. Bonaventure University and Olean General Hospital, a Kaleida Health facility, jointly nominated both Laine and Tarana, showcasing their dedication to bettering the community.
“As a committee member for National Philanthropy Day of Western New York, it was a privilege to work with the Olean General Hospital Foundation to nominate and share two stories of generosity and dedication in the southern tier,” said Melissa DeRose, major gifts officer, St. Bonaventure University. “The afternoon celebrated Marianne and Blake and their immeasurable impact; a testament to their unwavering commitment to our area.”
The Deane Center for the Performing Arts, a cultural cornerstone of Tioga County, has launched its Annual Appeal Drive, calling on the community and local businesses to join together in ensuring the Center’s continued impact. Donations and sponsorships are needed to support its mission of bringing world-class arts and entertainment to the region and maintaining an accessible, welcoming space for all.
“For over a decade, the Deane Center has been a place where creativity thrives, milestones are celebrated, and the community comes together,” said Amy Welch, Executive Director of the Deane Center. “This year, as we launch our Annual Appeal, we’re asking for your support to keep this vision alive and vibrant. Together, we can ensure this beloved space remains a hub for connection and inspiration.”
Annually, The Deane Center hosts 200+ events that span a variety of purposes, from performances to community gatherings, often offered at no or minimal cost to ensure access for everyone. However, sustaining this level of service requires robust community backing.
Senator Tom O’Mara’s recent critique of New York’s Clean Slate Act misrepresents its scope, intent, and societal benefits.
He claims the law indiscriminately expunges millions of criminal records, including violent crimes such as manslaughter and kidnapping, which is false. The law explicitly excludes Class A felonies and sex offenses from expungement and imposes strict eligibility criteria: misdemeanors are sealed after three years and felonies after eight, contingent on the individual completing their sentence and remaining crime-free. Moreover, records are sealed, not erased, ensuring law enforcement and courts retain access for public safety (New York Senate, 2023).
O’Mara overlooks significant benefits of expungement laws. Research consistently shows that sealing records reduces recidivism by increasing employment opportunities and promoting housing stability (Prescott & Starr, 2019). These outcomes enhance public safety and support rehabilitated individuals in reintegrating into society.
Concerns about employer and public safety are overstated. Sensitive industries, such as childcare or elder care, require fingerprint-based background checks, which remain unaffected by the Clean Slate Act (New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services, 2023). The law also leaves victim rights and restitution processes intact, contrary to claims that it disregards crime victims.
Rather than engaging with the data-backed benefits of reforms like Clean Slate, O’Mara perpetuates fear-based narratives, calling it a “pro-criminal” policy. However, the law aims to correct systemic inequities and provide second chances to individuals who have paid their debt to society. This balanced approach fosters safer communities and promotes justice through rehabilitation, not perpetual punishment.
Jackie Wilson, Representative 2024 – 2026
Alfred, NY District 2
Allegany County Democratic Committee
References:
New York Senate. (2023). S211A, Clean Slate Act. Retrieved from https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S211A
New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services. (2023). Background check requirements for sensitive industries. Retrieved from https://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/
Prescott, J. J., & Starr, S. B. (2019). Expungement of criminal records: An empirical study. University of Michigan Law School. Retrieved from https://repository.law.umich.edu/
Pictured are Brenda Sawyer of Brenda Sawyer Art; Kimball Nelson of Howard Hannah Professionals and Ed Vicic of Eddie’s on Main, hosts of the event.
A community fund raising event will be held Saturday, November 30 from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 1st from noon – 4 p.m. at Eddie’s on Main located at 212 North Main Street in Port Allegany to benefit the Pastor Randy Headley Memorial Award for (Youth) Community Service. There will be raffles, food, shopping and fun showcasing God’s Country Creamery Cheese, Little Mountain Winery, locally crafted wooden photo frames, Card Creek Bakery Artisan breads and desserts, Out of the Lane Aprons by bkh, Brenda Sawyer Art, Ambeaulynn Hand Stamped Jewelry, Repurposed Sweater Mittens, PA Plants Succulent Planters, Otto-Eldred FFA grown poinsettias, local honey and maple syrup products, Eddie’s on Main Sweet Treats, Charcuterie Boxes and more holiday gift ideas. There will also be a holiday luncheon menu.
Pastor Randy Headley served in the U.S. Marines and worked in sales before entering the ministry in 1991. He served United Mehodist Churches in Shinglehouse, Ceres, Trinity (now Port Allegany UMC), Port Allegany Evangelical UMC (now closed) Crosby, Riverside and Fishing Creek, all in the Kane District of the UMC.
Shoppers have Black Friday. But for Pennsylvania hunters, the real action starts one day later, on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, when the statewide firearms deer season begins.
No other single point of the hunting calendar draws as much participation.
Opening day, which falls on Nov. 30 this year, will put more than half a million hunters in the woods, all looking to bring home healthy venison to fill their freezers. It’s about more than just that, though. For many families – those who hunt from camps and those who hunt closer to home – the deer opener is an event, a chance to bring together family and friends and make memories centered on the outdoors that will be retold for generations.
“Growing up, I looked forward to the first day of deer season all year,” said Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith. “I’m hardly alone that way. For many of us, hunting, and deer hunting in particular, isn’t just a hobby. It’s a part of the fabric of our lives.
ATTENTION: The township office will be closed all week this week. If you have an emergency you may call the office at 814-544-7549 and leave a message. Thank you
It is with heartfelt reverence and gratitude that we announce an important change to our Lodge’s name. The William Hanley Sr., Lodge No. 67 will now be known as the Shade-Hanley Lodge No. 67, honoring both our esteemed founding benefactor, William Hanley Sr., and our beloved past president, Bradford Township Police Lieutenant Jeffrey Shade.
Lieutenant Shade tragically passed away in the line of duty on August 4, 2023, while serving the Bradford community with courage and dedication. His leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of law enforcement left an indelible mark on our Lodge and our community. This name change is a lasting tribute to his legacy and the profound impact he had on all of us.
As we embrace this meaningful transition, the Shade-Hanley Lodge No. 67 remains steadfast in our mission to support our members, strengthen our community, and honor those who serve and sacrifice for the greater good. Your unwavering support—whether as individuals, organizations, or silent champions of law enforcement and our Lodge—makes this work possible and impactful.
We would like to extend a special thank you to the greater Bradford, PA community for standing by our Lodge and its officers over the years. Your dedication has been a cornerstone of our success. To our unnamed supporters whose quiet contributions sustain us, please know your efforts are deeply valued and appreciated.
Businesses and organizations in Cameron County preparing for the holiday season. The season begins with the arrival of the Christmas tree in the town square. The tree has been donated by the Erik and Marilyn Erickson. Smoker Logging will cut and transport the tree Thanksgiving weekend. In addition a second tree donated by Chris and Randy Andrews will be installed on West Fourth Street near the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce new location.
During Shop Small Saturday November 30, a drawing will be held to give away $100 worth of lottery tickets. It benefits the Cameron County Royalty. The tickets can be purchased now at $5.00 each at the chamber office. Beginning November 30, shoppers can pick up the C&N Bank Shop Small punch card and after spending $100 at local businesses the card can be turned into the chamber office for a drawing to be held during Christmas in the Wilds December 7. This gives shoppers one week to fill as many cards as possible. The prizes are 1 $100 winner, 3 $50 winners 2 $25 winners. The Cameron County High School Quarterback Club is raising funds from a basket raffle. Tickets will be available November 25 through December 7 at the chamber office. All Christmas Time at Sarah Jane’s will open its doors for snuggling with furry animals. The theme of A Christmas Time will be woodland animals. Sarah Daley will have painting classes every Friday night.
The month of December kicks off with a used book sale at Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library December 3-7. The Christmas Parade and tree lighting take place in downtown Emporium on Friday night December 6. The highlight is the arrival of Santa who will then throw the switch to light the tree. The Christmas Benefit committee will have basket tickets available at the Emporium Volunteer Fire Department starting at 4pm.
Saturday morning Santa arrives with his reindeer. The reindeer will relax on North Wood Street between Twisted Sisters and Mountain Laurel Federal Credit Union. The Emporium Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary will host breakfast with Santa from 9am to 11am. Santa will then travel to A Christmas Time which is hosted by Sarah Daley at her studio at 5 East Fourth Street. Families and teens can pick up the selfie scavenger hunt list from businesses in the county. There are 20 items to find at decorated homes or businesses. Downtown Emporium vendors will sell items from 9am-1pm. The CCHS Quarterback Club will have its basket drawing at 1pm and the winners of the C&N Bank Shop Small punch card will be announced at 2pm. The Christmas Community Dance will be held Saturday night at the Emporium Volunteer Fire Department.
A Christmas Time will continue to host events during the month of December. Santa will be greeting children and accepting their letters on Saturday 14 and 21 from noon-2pm. On Sunday December 8 an elf will be on hand to read stories from 2pm-3pm. December 15 pets are invited to spend time with Santa. A photographer will be on hand and the price is $10.00 Throughout the month paint and sips will be offered and the venue is open for holiday gatherings.
The selfie Christmas scavenger hunt continues throughout the month of December. Participants are to share the pictures on the Facebook group Christmas in Cameron County. A random drawing will take place New Years Day with prizes awarded. Brochures outlining the events are available at various businesses in the county.
Saturday morning four people threw frozen turkey breasts at bowling pins at the Emporium Food Market. It is an annual tradition at the grocery store started by owner, Scott McCann. The winner Issaac Weber, then spent time filling a cart for his Thanksgiving Day dinner. The other bowlers, Vanessa Bidwell, Lucie Copp and Barb Palumbo all received gift cards to the store.
Six bakers brought pumpkin, apple or banana bread to the store. A panel of judges including McCann, his son, Wyatt and last years’ pie winner Joe Pleak spent 30 minutes taste testing. The winners included Jenn Austin, Jean Tesauro and Jill Perry. All participants received gift cards to the store.
Job Announcement: Outreach and Communications Advisor
The Potter County Conservation District is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Outreach and Communications Advisor. The position will be full-time (37.5 hours/week) with a probationary period of six months. The purpose of this position is to oversee the general planning, development, and direction of all communications of the District. Coordinate programs, social media, news releases, and other forms or publication to build and sustain a positive image of the District in the public. The qualified applicant must have a high school diploma or equivalent, be able to obtain required clearances, and a valid driver’s license. Candidates are preferred to have a degree in an Environmental Field (Biology, Environmental Science, Ecology, etc.), Communications, Public Relations, or another related field. The position involves extensive contact, both by phone and in person, with a variety of District customers and partners. The person in this position must have excellent communication skills, a pleasant disposition, be courteous, and detail oriented. Tasks will be assigned and supervised by the District Manager per program needs.
The salary will be commensurate with experience. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, age, sex, ancestry or
national origin.
Contact the Potter County Conservation District for an employment application and full job description at 814-320-4012, or at j.childs@pottercd.com
Deadline for cover letter, application, and resume is November 30th, 2024. Please send a cover letter, application, and resume to:
PCCD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the PCCD will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Week four Rotary visitors were Cole Moore and Lily Madison. Lily is the daughter of Pastor J.T. and Carri Madison. Her school activities include being a member of the soccer team, track and field team, Marching Band, Drama Club, Concert Band, Concert Choir, Chamber Singers,Jazz Band, Peer Helpers and Enrichment. She has received a certificate of Merit from the state of PA, Frederick Couglass and Susan B. Anthony Award for Social Sciences from the University of Rochester and the Pastor Randy Headley Memorial Award for Community Service. Lily plans to attend a 4-year college for a pre-medicine degree and go to medical school to become a physician. She would like to join Doctors Without Borders. Cole is the son of Ronald Moore, Jr. and Rebecca brodhun. His grandparents are Ronald Moore, Sr, and Lorna Moore. He has three sisters and two brothers. He wrestled throughout his grade school. He is in the Automotive class at the Career and Technical Center. Cole went to work at age 14 and hasn’t done sports since that time. His plans are to go to Alfred State for Automotive Mechanics.
Lily was introduced to the club by Susan Flint. Anna Fair introduced Cole. Protarm of the day was Rod and Ruth Johnson with their Search and Rescue dogs.
