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The Potter-Tioga Maple weekend is celebrating their 21st year of hosting the art of maple syrup creation. There are 17 participating farms and educational experiences throughout the two counties on March 15 and 16 from 10 AM - 4 PM. Photo by Andy Lychalk, Jr.
List your Yard Sale FREE on our Auction & Yard Sale page: Send to shurfine40@gmail.com
January 2023 was a very mild month. According to Weather World temperatures were 10 to 15 degrees below average. We did not have a below zero reading for the month. Last January we had below zero readings several mornings. This year the morning temperature readings were in the 30’s and mid teens, On January 3 and 4 it reached 40 and 45 degrees. The lowest I recorded was 14 degrees and the 16th. The average high is 29 degrees and the average low is 13 degrees. This January we received 3.19″ of rain and melted snow. Last year the reading was 2.1″ The snowfall total was 8″ and last year it was 18″. We had 1″ or more snow on the ground for 9 days. We measured 4.6″ on the 23rd for the highest reading. We had 6 foggy mornings and ice glaze on one morning. It will be interesting to see if we will catch up with snowfall and cold temperatures in February and March. Don’t put the snowplows away yet and for those who still use shovels keep them ready too.
The Troutman family would like to share a warm thank you to everyone in our communities for the prayers, food, cards, calls, gifts, and hugs after the loss of our funny, hard-working, caring, and much-loved father and husband, Arnie Troutman.
All of your support means so much as we adjust to life without him. He loved our little town, which you all have made feel so big.
Sincerely, Paula, Melissa, Benn, Beth, Brett, Jackie, and Larry
As many of you may have seen or heard, there is a medical helicopter in the Middle/High School parking lot. Please be advised there is no emergency on campus. The helicopter suffered mechanical issues earlier today and has remained parked on our campus.
McKean County District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that the Pennsylvania Superior Court has affirmed the conviction and sentence of a Bradford man convicted of stabbing another man in 2020.
Matthew Howard was charged with stabbing another man in the neck on July 24, 2020 in the City of Bradford. A jury trial occurred in 2021 and a bench warrant was issued for Howard. The jury convicted him of Aggravated Assault (Serious Bodily Injury); Aggravated Assault (Bodily Injury with a Deadly Weapon); Simple Assault; Recklessly Endangering Another Person; Terroristic Threats; and Possessing an Instrument of Crime.
Following his conviction, he was sentenced to 7 years to 14 years in the Department of Corrections and 1 year of consecutive probation. On a separate case, he was sentenced to another term of 1 year to 2 year consecutive for the crime of Inmate Procuring Weapon.
By opinion filed January 17, 2023, the Superior Court affirmed the judgment of sentence. Officer Clayton Yohe investigated the case.
Kashif Chaudhry, M.D. Heart and Vascular Institute, UPMC
February is National Heart Health Month and a great time to familiarize yourself with the signs of a heart emergency. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one person succumbs to a heart attack every 40 seconds in the United States. Most times, these emergencies happen suddenly. It is vital to take quick action to help someone have the best possible outcome after a cardiovascular incident.
Warning Signs
Not everyone displays the same symptoms of heart attack, and some symptoms can be more subtle than previously believed. If you or a loved one displays a combination of any of the following indicators, do not hesitate to call 911 or to go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Discomfort in the chest or areas in the upper body – This discomfort could be described as squeezing, uncomfortable pressure, fullness, or aching. The location of the discomfort could be in the back, one or both arms, neck, jaw, or abdomen.
Difficulty breathing or lightheadedness – A shortness of breath, like you just walked up a few flights of stairs.
Other signs – These signs may include cold sweats, nausea, indigestion, fatigue, or a general unwell feeling.
These symptoms may happen all at once, start gradually, or occur intermittently. No matter what, it’s vital to get treatment as soon as possible.
Preventing Heart Disease
There are many lifestyle choices that you can adopt to help prevent cardiovascular issues.
Lack of physical activity is the most common way your health affects your heart and vascular system. The goal is to be active in a moderate intensity level for at least 30 minutes a day. You could simply go on a walk or bike ride. Not only will this help improve your health, but physical activity is a great way to practice self-care and improve your happiness.
Many diseases and conditions of the heart are also attributed to unhealthy eating habits. Diabetes, cholesterol levels, and a variety of other conditions can overwhelm your heart if you’re not careful. Some insurances may cover a standard assessment session with a registered dietician to go over healthier eating options. Both exercising and eating a healthy diet will help you manage your weight, ultimately fighting heart disease.
Stress negatively affects your heart health as it increases the risk for hypertension. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can damage your arteries over time and increase the likelihood of a heart attack. Making time to unwind or participate in activities you like, talking to others about your feelings or concerns, and taking breaks from social media and the news are just a few ways to help manage stress.
Finally, it is highly advised to quit smoking. Smoking can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, a reduction in blood flow, and promote clotting and fatty substance buildup. Stopping the use of tobacco will reduce your risk for cardiovascular diseases.
it’s important to participate in regular screenings with your physician. A simple check-up and blood pressure screening can help prevent future issues and may end up saving your life.
Kashif Chaudhry, M.D., is an electrophysiologist with UPMC’s Heart and Vascular Institute and sees patients at the UPMC Health Innovation Center, 740 High St., Williamsport. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Chaudhry, call 570-321-2800. For more information, visit UPMC.com/HeartNCPA.
(SMETHPORT, Pennsylvania) [January 30, 2023]: District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that, following a 6 day jury trial at the McKean County Courthouse, a jury has convicted former Bradford man Marc Nuzzo of 3 counts of Aggravated Assault (Felony 3) and 6 counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person (Misdemeanor 2) for his actions that resulted in a car crash in 2018.
The jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict of Homicide by Vehicle and Manslaughter.
Following the jury verdict, the Judge found the defendant guilty of 8 summary violations of the vehicle code. The charges were the result of a crash that occurred on September 5, 2018 on Rt. 219 near Mead Run where NUZZO had been travelling South when he crossed the center line and entered the Northbound lane. A vehicle driven by Stanley “Guy” Austin and occupied by 5 other passengers had been travelling North when it was struck head-on by NUZZO.
Numerous other drivers stopped to assist the people in the Austin vehicle, including a local couple on their way home from the hospital, a Canadian truck driver, an off-duty EMT, and several others. Numerous fire companies responded to the area as the Austin car erupted in fire upon impact and many of the passengers were still inside. Guy Austin and two of his passengers were flown to out-of-area hospitals for their injuries.
The jury heard from some of those who assisted the occupants and heard some of the 911 calls. Following the verdict, DA Shaffer asked the Court to increase the defendant’s bail. The Judge increased his bail to $150,000 percentage. As a condition of bail, the defendant was ordered to turn in his driver’s license.
On March 28, 2019, an arrest warrant had been issued for the arrest of Marc Nuzzo. Nuzzo had been the subject of an investigation into the crash that occurred on 219 in McKean County. Nuzzo was charged by criminal complaint with Homicide by Vehicle; three counts of Aggravated Assault by Vehicle; Involuntary Manslaughter; 6 counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person; and several summary violations.
During the trial, many of the occupants in the Austin vehicle testified to seeing the lights in their lane and Mr. Austin trying to avoid the Nuzzo vehicle in his lane. They described how they were removed from the vehicle – most of whom required the assistance of the people who stopped to help.
Trooper Quinton O’Rourke of the Pennsylvania State Police investigated the case. Corporal David Kostok and now-retired Trooper Robert Manno, both accident reconstructionists with the State Police, testified before the jury. District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer and First Assistant Michael Alfieri prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth. No date has been set for sentencing. Source: McKean County District Attorney’s Office
PHOTO: Front: L-R: Jim Ryan, United Way Vice-President; Don Fleming, UW Board Member; Joe Fleming, City of St. Marys Manager Back: L-R: United Way Board members Rob Oleary, Leah Whiteman, John Dippold, Pete Straub, Becky Piccolo, Doug Bauer, Dani Schneider, City Parks & Recreation Director; Lewis Murray, UW board member; and Jane Olson, UW board member
Elk County- The St. Marys Area United Way board of directors met on January 27, 2023 for their annual board meeting. The meeting was hosted by the City of St. Marys and held within the city chambers conference room. The meeting started with a brief City overview from city manager Joe Fleming and a presentation from parks and recreation director Dani Schneider regarding their efforts to rebuild a new Playland at Memorial Park. Jim Ryan, United Way Vice-President chaired the meeting and presented several agenda items for discussion. Two of the most important agenda items included the voting for the 2023 grant award recipients and the vote to set 2023 campaign goal to $200,000.
Calling all thespians! So you’ve never acted before but would love to? Come learn the essential skills needed to be on the stage. Even if you are not a novice, this is an excellent opportunity to refresh those skills and learn something new to add to your repertoire, such as improvisation or different techniques. The local theatrical group, Potter-McKean Players, has plans to offer productions in the upcoming months. This course will teach you what you need to be ready for those auditions.
This 4-part course will be taught by local director Paul Herzig and actor Jared Empson, of Eliot Ness Fest fame. The classes will take place on Tuesdays, March 7 – March 28, 2023 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Education Council’s Coudersport office. The cost of the course is $25 per person. Class size is limited, so register today at www.pottercountyedcouncil.org or call (814) 274-4877.
Lesley Zurek appointed senior director of human resources at UAHS
Upper Allegheny Health System (UAHS), parent company of Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and Olean General Hospital (OGH) announce the official appointment of Lesley Zurek as senior director of human resources.
Lesley steps into the role with over a decade spent in human resources leadership positions. She had spent time working in the gaming industry advancing through the ranks becoming the vice president of human resources at Seneca Resorts and Casinos. She most recently was the regional human resources director for 19 long term nursing care facilities before recently transitioning to UAHS.
“We’re thrilled to have someone with the versatile experience that Lesley has step into the senior human resources director role,” said Jill Owens, MD, president, UAHS, BRMC, OGH. “This position is so important to execute the initiatives dealing with recruitment and retention of our workforce that is comprised of over 1,100 team members. Even with the most recent market adjustments made throughout our organization, there are still a lot of obstacles we need to overcome in regards to our workforce and I think Lesley is the right person to help tackle those barriers,” Owens said.
Lesley acquired her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Columbus, OH and her master’s degree in organizational leadership from Medaille College. She also holds certifications in Professional in Human Resources (PHR), HR Generalist Certificate (SHRM), Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), and Certified Benefits Professional (CBP).
Lesley, a Salamanca High School graduate and Salamanca resident, is also an enrolled member of the Seneca Nation. Outside of work Lesley enjoys crafting, sewing, and machine embroidery along with spending time with her family.
The cover of the documentary features a photo of Sister Victoria who recently passed away.
At 7 p.m. this coming Wednesday, Feb. 1, “The Lessons of Sister Victoria,” a Gale Largey documentary film, will be shown to the public for free in the Grand Community Room at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro.
Released in 2014, Largey researched, wrote and produced this one-hour and 57-minute documentary about the influence the Benedictine Sisters of St. Joseph’s Convent had on life in St. Marys, Pennsylvania.
At its peak in the 1950s, there were nearly 150 sisters in the convent. They epitomized their motto “Pray and Work,” teaching students at three parochial grade schools, a high school and a music and art academy. In addition, they administered the local hospital and a home for elderly women.
By January of 2014, only 17 sisters remained and it became necessary to close the convent and move them to other locations.
Thirty-five fourth through tenth graders who live in Northern Tioga School District communities are participating in Hamilton-Gibson’s “CATS” Winter Theatre Arts Camp in Elkland.
The 15-day after school camp began on Jan. 12 in the auditorium at Clark Wood Elementary School at 110 Addison Hill Road in Elkland.
It will end in the auditorium with two Pay-What-You-Can performances for the public at 7 p.m. next Friday and Saturday, Feb. 3 and 4.
“CATS: Young Actors Edition”was a huge leap for us,” said Thomas Putnam, Hamilton-Gibson’s artistic director.
“This one-hour adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit musical is specially tailored to give a young cast an exciting and rewarding experience,” Putnam said.
Cardiologist, Lalchand Goyal, MD and Michael Wilt, PA-C will lead the February Walk with a Doc event in Bradford.
Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and the Guidance Center (TGC) are hosting the February Walk with a Doc event on Thursday, February 2. The event will take place at Richard E. McDowell Trail on Campus Drive, starting at 5pm.
The walk is coordinated through a partnership between the Guidance Center and BRMC. This month’s providers that will be leading the walk are Lalchand Goyal, MD and Michael Wilt, PA-C from General Physician, PC.
In honor of National American Heart Month, the cardiology team practicing at BRMC will discuss the importance of heart health. All participants are encouraged to wear red attire. Also, as an added perk to join the walk, anyone that attends the next four walks will be entered to win a $150 Dunham’s Sports Gift Card to get a new pair of walking shoes! The walk is free and open to anyone. If interested, please register at walkwithadoc.org/Ewaiver.
An alternate indoor location has been reserved for the event in the case of inclement winter weather. The location is the University of Pitt at Bradford Fitness Center located at 300 Campus Drive, Bradford, PA 16701. Any changes in the location will be announced on the Walk with a Doc Bradford Facebook Page the day of the event.
Montoursville, PA – Motorists are advised that both lanes of Interstate 180 eastbound are closed at mile marker 26 (Faxon Exit) in Loyalsock Township, Lycoming County, due to a multi-vehicle crash.
A detour using Northway Road and Route 2014 (East Third Street) is in place. The roadway is expected to open by early evening.
Motorists should be alert, slow down, expect travel delays, and drive with caution.
Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras.
ServSafe is a certification program developed by the Restaurant Association Education Foundation. The course meets certification requirements for individuals who are responsible for the safe handling of food in restaurants, schools, elder care facilities, lodges, bed and breakfasts, community centers, and other food concessions (organizations or businesses that sell or prepare food on a regular basis).
This course, taught by Rick Kralj, Penn State Educator, is scheduled for Mondays, March 6 and March 13, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Education Council’s Coudersport office. The cost is $185/person. The registration deadline is Monday, February 27th. To register, call (877) 489-1398 or go to http://extension.psu.edu/food-safety/serv-safe.
Artists who want to take their career further and engage more in their community are invited to gather on Thursday. February 16 for Funding Creativity, an event hosted by the Elk County Council on the Arts, at the PA Wilds Media Lab located in the space above Laughing Owl Press in Kane, Pennsylvania.
Funding Creativity will be a showcase of programs and opportunities for local artists through ECCOTA’s partnership with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. The Elk County Council on the Arts is one of 14 partner organizations with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, servicing Elk, McKean, Potter, Cameron, and Forest Counties. Artists from those counties are encouraged to attend the event.
Funding Creativity will be a chance for interested artists to get together and learn about granting and residency opportunities through ECCOTA. As well as a networking opportunity for artists, rostered teaching artists and grant recipients will be in attendance to answer questions and engage in discussion with attendees and give testimony to their success with these programs.
Funding Creativity is also in partnership with the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship and the Wilds Cooperative of PA, who will also be in attendance. The PA Wilds Media Lab is located at 61 North Fraley St, Second Floor, in Kane, Pennsylvania and will last from 5:00 pm till 8:00 pm and refreshments from Table 105 will be provided.
Any questions regarding Funding Creativity can be directed to ECCOTA at (814) 772-7051.
Daniele International LLC, a Mapleville, R.I., establishment, is recalling approximately 52,914 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) sausage products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes.
Sovos Brands Intermediate, Inc. (“Sovos”) is voluntarily recalling a limited number of 16-ounce jars of Rao’s Made for Home Slow Simmered Soup, Chicken & Gnocchi, because the affected jars may contain undeclared egg. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to egg run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the product.
The affected soup is labeled as Chicken & Gnocchi, but will contain vegetable minestrone, which is dark red.
“These critical investments will benefit rural people and businesses in many ways for decades to come,” Vilsack said. “This funding will help rural cooperatives and utilities invest in changes that make our energy more efficient, more reliable, and more affordable. Investing in infrastructure – roads, bridges, broadband and energy – supports good-paying jobs and keeps the United States poised to lead the global economy.”
