COUDERSPORT – The Coudersport Volunteer Fire Department has new safety equipment thanks to a $100,000 state grant secured by Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter).
“For our firefighters to effectively do their jobs and protect public safety, we also need to protect them with appropriate equipment,” Causer said. “I was happy to work with Chief (Bryan) Phelps to secure this grant and ensure the department has the tools it needs to fulfill its mission.”
During a visit to the station on Thursday, Phelps and members of the department talked with Causer about the equipment purchased, including 13 full sets of firefighting gear – including pants, coats, boots, gloves and particulate hoods – as well as 12 thermal imaging cameras to assist with searching for lost or trapped persons, or to be used in hazardous materials situations.
“These items will greatly assist our members and keep them safe and compliant with National Fire Protection Association standards while serving residents and visitors in our community,” Phelps said. “We are grateful for the help to obtain the funding we need to help our firefighters safely perform their duties.”
At the Coudersport Rotary Club’s August 24, 2026, meeting, Rotarian Bob Kuhl introduced Kelly Harrison, Director of Potter County Domestic Relations, as its guest speaker. Harrison, formerly employed at Electri-Cord, and then as Assistant Director before being promoted to Director, brings youthful vigor and networking skills to the Domestic Relations office.
Harrison said that the Domestic Relations Office is not just about child support. It is there because children deserve the support of both parents. The office can assist in locating absent parents and in establishing paternity. If a child is born out of wedlock, the father can sign an Acknowledgement of Paternity. If need be, genetic testing is offered at $22 per person ( possible parents and the child).
The Potter County Housing Authority has immediate availability for a 2 bedroom apartment:
Honeoye Haven apartments, located in Shinglehouse, PA
This apartment is a 2-bedroom with wall to wall carpeting, central heating and air conditioning, range and refrigerator included. This apartment is not available to a single person.
To be eligible you must be 62 years of age or older or disabled. Rent is based on 30% of your income. Includes electric, trash, water and sewer.
For more information please call the Potter County Housing Authority at (814) 274-7031 TTY/TDD #711 or stop by our office at 109 Market Street, Coudersport.
The Potter County Housing Authority does not discriminate against any person because of Race, Color, Sex, Religion, National or Ethnic Origin, Familial Status, Gender Identity or Handicap.
Julie Lynn LeTrent, 70, of Keller, Texas, formerly of Bradford, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2026, in Grapevine, Texas, surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born on June 2, 1956, in Warren, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late James W. LeTrent and Lois Jean Morey Van Houtte, who survives her.
Julie graduated from Bradford Area Schools in 1974 and, in 1984, earned a two-year associate degree in medical secretarial studies from Olean Business Institute.
Julie was a gentle, caring soul whose heart was always with her family. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, garage sales, ceramics, embroidery and sewing, and she especially loved cooking for those she cared about. Her spaghetti and meatballs became a cherished family favorite, a dish that always meant home.
More than anything, Julie wanted to love and be loved by her family, and she gave that love freely and completely. She showed up for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, again and again, through the everyday moments as much as the big ones, always ready with a phone call, a meal, or a helping hand whenever she was needed. Her kindness was quiet yet constant, and she had a special gift for making others feel seen, valued, and truly loved.
That same devotion carried her back to Bradford as often as she could manage. Julie cherished every trip home to Pennsylvania to visit her family, especially her mother, and those visits were among her greatest joys. Now, she returns to Bradford once more, laid to rest among the family and community she loved so dearly.
She is survived by her mother, Lois J. Van Houtte of Bradford, PA; her sister, Diane Van Houtte of Pittsburgh, PA; and her brother, James LeTrent (Angel) of Corry, PA; her children, Heather LeTrent of Lewisville, TX, Amy LeTrent of Bedford, TX, Michael Taft (Robyn) of Keller, TX, and Brian Taft (Gina) of Grand Prairie, TX; her six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; and many extended family members who loved her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her father, James W. LeTrent; her stepfather, Robert E. Van Houtte; her sister, Rebecca LeTrent Gould; and two beloved grandchildren, Shariece Martin and Jada Summer Gonzalez.
Julie’s family meant everything to her, and her love for them remains present in the lives she touched, and in every shared story, treasured recipe, and act of kindness inspired by her example.
A visitation will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 6:00pm to 8:00 p.m. at Lucas Funeral Home, Grapevine, Texas.
Funeral service on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 10:00am to 12:00 p.m., also at Lucas Funeral Home, Grapevine, Texas.
Family and friends will be received on Thursday September 3, 2026, from 4 pm to 6 pm at the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc., 372 East Main Street, and again on Friday from 10 am to 11 am at the Hill Memorial Methodist Church, 44 Kennedy Street, followed by funeral services at 11 am with Rev. Jay Tennies, Pastor officiating. Burial will follow at Willow Dale Cemetery.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
“beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather”
ELDRED, PA—After a life well lived, Robert L. “Bob” Taylor, 91, a longtime resident of Eldred, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, August 27, 2026, leaving a legacy of kindness and love.
Born on Tuesday, December 25, 1934 in Ceres, PA, he was a son of Fay E. and Viola I. Loucks Taylor. On July 14, 1956 in Duke Center, he married Joyce E Hartzell, who survives.
Bob graduated from Shinglehouse High School. During his working career, Bob was employed as a mechanic in Olean, NY at the Chevrolet Garage and had also worked at Corning Glass in Bradford as a supervisor. He later was employed at Alcas Cutlery as a supervisor and retired as an Eldred Township Supervisor in 1996. He was a master mechanic and a Mr. Fix-it.
Following retirement, Bob and Joyce enjoyed spending time at their Largo, Florida home and relaxing at the beach. He loved riding his 4-wheeler, was an avid deer hunter, and always looked forward to hunting season and spending time at his hunting camp. He also loved to fish and also loved sitting on his back porch with Joyce watching the wildlife in their yard during the summer months. Bob was a strong, hardworking, kind, gentle man who would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it. His greatest love was his wife and family. He will forever be loved and fondly remembered for his kindness and caring nature.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 70 years; two daughters, Debbie K. (Jerry) Drum and Kathy L. (Gary) Buck, both of Eldred; two grandsons, Michael C. (Sarah) Buck and Matthew R. (Jackie) Buck; three great-grandsons, Blake L. Buck, Owen C. Buck, and Brock M. Buck; two brothers, Garry Taylor of Ceres and Dorwin Taylor of Shinglehouse; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by three brothers, Leroy Taylor, Lyle E. Taylor, and Gordon Taylor; and two sisters, Norma Jean Seitz and Anna Y. Lamb.
Family and friends may gather from 11am to 1pm on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, where funeral services will follow at 1pm with Jerry Drum, Bob’s son-in-law, officiating. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Shinglehouse.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Bob’s name may be made to the Eldred Township Fire Department/Ambulance Association, 84 Windfall Road, Eldred, PA 16731.
Bob’s family entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home. Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Bob, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
BRADFORD, PA — The boots have been kicked off, the sweat has dried, and the big checks have officially been awarded! The Trail Central™ America 250 Trail Challenge has concluded, and to celebrate the astounding achievements of our outdoor community, the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau officially presented $2,500 in total funding to four dedicated local trail organizations.
Over the course of the challenge, 272 trail titans logged a mind-blowing 53,087 miles and burned over 4.1 million calories across 2,287 workouts—proving beyond a shadow of a doubt that McKean County has the most unstoppable trail community in the Commonwealth! To put those numbers into perspective, 53,087 miles is enough distance to walk around the entire planet Earth twice (with enough miles left over for a victory lap to Florida), or walk the iconic Kinzua Skywalk back and forth over 449,000 times!
In honor of America’s 250th birthday, an extraordinary 66 participants went above and beyond by logging more than 250 individual miles each during the challenge.
William R. CAMPBELL, 79, of Galeton, PA, died Friday, August 21, 2026 in the Comfort House of Allegany County, Wellsville, NY. A gathering to celebrate Bill’s life will be held at Moon’s Big Red Barn, 453 Rowley Road, Ulysses, PA 16948 on Saturday, August 29, 2026 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, with a brief service at 4:00 PM. Rev. Scott Ogden will officiate. Memorials may be made to Hart Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895 or online at www.comforthouseofalleganycounty.org. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
BRADFORD, PA / OLEAN, NY – During September, Bradford Medical Park (BMP) and Olean General Hospital (OGH), Kaleida Health facilities, are offering a variety of classes and support groups designed to provide health education, encouragement and community connection.
For those who are completing CPR training for licensure or work, American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) classes are being offered to the community by the Clinical Education Department. September’s class will be held in Bradford in the Community Room in the main lobby on Wednesday, September 2, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The cost to attend the class is $40. For more information or to register for the class, call (716) 375-6904.
Pamela J. BODO, 76, of Ulysses, PA, died Wednesday, August 19, 2026 in her home. A gathering to celebrate Pam’s life will be held at the Tri-Town Ambulance and Firehall on Saturday, August 29, 2026 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM. Memorials may be made to Tri-Town Volunteer Ambulance, P.O. Box 247, Ulysses, PA 16948. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Have you ever wondered what farm biosecurity is about? How to handle pesticides, ticks or what the best way to assemble a First Aid Kit?
The Penn State Extension in Cooperation with Bradford Co. Farm Bureau gives you a unique opportunity to learn the basics of farm safety during the Farm Safety Day that will be hosted by the Sugar Branch Farms/Miller’s Corn Maze at 931 Sopertown Rd., Columbia Cross Roads, PA, on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
The Penn State Extension Educators and Guthrie Hospital Emergency workers will have stations placed throughout the farm to present farm biosecurity, tractor, pesticide, chainsaw, and tick safety. Stop the bleed and strategies for managing farm-related stress will be included as well. You can also bring your Presto pressure canner for free pressure testing. This workshop is primarily for farm workers who are currently actively working on farms full-time or part-time.
(McKEAN COUNTY, Pennsylvania: August 27, 2026): District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that a former Bradford Area School District bus driver has been sentenced to state prison for crimes against children on his school bus, a foster child placed in his home, and another child. During the sentencing hearing on August 27th, the judge sentenced WILLIAMS to a state sentence of at least 11 years and 4 months to 22 years and 8 months plus 3 years of consecutive supervision.
City of Bradford Police began an investigation after receiving a report that WILLIAMS was taking photographs of children on his bus. Officer Tony Lama discovered the photographs to be of young girls on the bus while they were clothed but placed in a provocative pose so that their genital area covered by underwear was prominent in the photographs and of another young girl who visited his home who he photographed with the camera focused on the child’s genital area while it was loosely covered with a bathing suit.
The Coudersport Area School District is seeking applicants for the position of HS Instrumental Music Teacher effective with the 2026-2027 school year.
Interested applicants should send a complete application package including a letter of interest, application, PA certificate, current clearances (Act 24/31/34/151/168), resumé, and transcripts to the Office of the Superintendent, CASD, 698 Dwight Street, Coudersport PA 16915 until the position is filled.
POSITION VACANCY
The Coudersport Area School District is seeking applicants for a Head Custodian effective September 21, 2026.
Interested applicants should send a complete application package, including a letter of interest, application, current clearances (Act 24/31/34/151/168) and resumé to the Office of theSuperintendent, CASD, 698 Dwight Street, Coudersport PA 16915 by September 9, 2026.
E. Gene KOSA, 80, of Ulysses, PA, died Wednesday, August 26, 2026 in Wheaton’s Private Care Home, Westfield. Born July 21, 1946, in Coudersport, he was the son of Edward and Helen Yardley Kosa. On February 4, 1967, in Niagara Falls, NY, he married Nancy Goodwin, who survives.
A 1964 graduate of Northern Potter High School, he earned an associate’s degree in agricultural engineering from Alfred State College. He was an owner/partner of EDKO Farms. Gene was a member of West Union Mennonite Church and served as a Ulysses Township Supervisor. He served on the Genesee advisory board and Mansfield Corporate board of directors of First Citizens Community Bank. He also served on the boards of FSA, PA Potato Growers Co-op and Research Board, and was a founding member of Progress Through Communications. In 2000, he was honored by the Potter County Conservation District with the service award for outstanding service to Potter County agriculture.
Surviving besides his wife, Nancy, are: a son, M. Joel (Darla) Kosa; daughters-in-law, Carrine Kosa and Theresa Beardsley; five grandchildren, Austin L. (Amber) Kosa, Kourtnee (Austin) Burdick, Tucker S. (Markaley) Kosa, Wyatt (Mary) Kosa, and Foster G. (Falyn) Kosa; six great-grandchildren, Kreed, Jaylee, Conway, Adalynn, Brewer, and Sutton; three brothers, Douglas (Donna) Kosa, Kurt (Laurel) Kosa, and Brian (Marianne) Kosa; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two sons, Justin L. Kosa and E. Kevin Kosa.
Friends may call Sunday, August 30, 2026 from 2:00 – 4:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 PM at Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM, Monday, August 31, 2026 in West Union Mennonite Church, 1347 County Route 84, Rexville, NY. Rev. Edward Babcock and Rev. Robert Walters will co-officiate. Burial will be in Ulysses Cemetery. Memorials may be made to UPMC Hospice or Carl E. Hyde American Legion Post #963, P.O. Box 236, Ulysses, PA 16948. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
ELDRED, PA—Robert L. “Bob” Taylor, 91, a longtime resident of Eldred, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, after a period of declining health.
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.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Bob, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
The Potter County Housing Authority has immediate availability for a 2 bedroom apartment:
Honeoye Haven apartments, located in Shinglehouse, PA
This apartment is a 2-bedroom with wall to wall carpeting, central heating and air conditioning, range and refrigerator included. This apartment is not available to a single person.
To be eligible you must be 62 years of age or older or disabled. Rent is based on 30% of your income. Includes electric, trash, water and sewer.
For more information please call the Potter County Housing Authority at (814) 274-7031 TTY/TDD #711 or stop by our office at 109 Market Street, Coudersport.
The Potter County Housing Authority does not discriminate against any person because of Race, Color, Sex, Religion, National or Ethnic Origin, Familial Status, Gender Identity or Handicap.
September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. The Allegany County Veterans’ Service Agency is unveiling the “Field of the Forgotten Fallen” on September 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. on the Courthouse Lawn at 7 Court Street in Belmont.
This “Field” will be up the entire month and is designed to bring attention to and raise awareness of the epidemic that is veteran suicide. It will also honor our brothers’ and sisters’ service, support life and build hope through education of this important topic.
This unveiling is open to the public, military, veterans and their families! Come and hear why this topic is so important in our communities and why we all can “Carry the Load” to make a difference.
Please be advised that County Road #7A in the Town of New Hudson, between Porter Road and White Meeting House Road, will be closed to traffic during working hours from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Thursday, September 3rd to replace a large culvert. There will not be an on-site detour and motorists are urged to seek alternate routes. Thank you for your cooperation.
2025-26 audit report highlights $41 million in realized savings, with millions more in projected annual and one-time savings
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s (PUC’s) Bureau of Audits conducted six audits and efficiency investigations of utility companies during Fiscal Year 2025-26, identifying $41 million in realized one-time savings. The Bureau also projected additional savings of $7.75 million annually and $1.60 million in one-time savings for Pennsylvania’s utilities and consumers, according to its most recent annual report.
“These results demonstrate the real value of rigorous utility oversight,” said PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank.“With $41 million in realized savings and millions more in projected savings, the work of our Bureau of Audits is delivering tangible benefits for Pennsylvania utilities and consumers.”
The Commission voted 5-0 today to publish its Fiscal Year 2025-26 annual report on PUC management audits (MAs) and management efficiency investigations (MEIs). These reviews work to identify efficiencies and savings for utilities, including potential improvements in operations, service reliability and safety programs.
BRADFORD – State Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) will hold his satellite office hours on Thursday, Sept. 3, at the following locations:
Emporium Borough Office – 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Port Allegany Borough Office – 11 a.m. to noon.
Services available include assisting constituents with state-related issues or concerns, assistance with driver license and vehicle registration applications, and help in filling out applications for various state programs, such as the senior citizen Property Tax/Rent Rebate and PACE prescription drug assistance programs.
People who cannot make the satellite sessions may contact Causer’s offices in Bradford at 78 Main St., first floor, telephone 814-362-4400; or Coudersport, 279 Route 6 West, Office 2, telephone 814-274-9769; or Kane, 54 N. Fraley St., Suite 2, telephone 814-837-0880. Information is also available at www.RepCauser.com or on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RepCauser.
The Potter County Farmers Market will be outdoors on the the courthouse lawn, every Friday from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Market will also be held on Saturday, if vendors are available, from 11 am to 3 pm. The next market weekend will be this Friday, August 28th. Below is a list of who plans to be there and what they plan on bringing to the Market:
* If you are interested in joining the market this year or have any questions please contact …. Netra Baker, 814-598-0649 netrabaker2@gmail.com]
FRIDAY VENDORS – August 28th – 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm
VALLEY HONEY will be at the market on Friday this week. We will have various sizes of liquid honey, whipped honey, honey gift bags, honey sticks and beeswax for sale. We accept cash payments. Hope to see everyone there!
ME and My Boys Soap will be there on Friday. We will have a selection of goat milk based products. For more information contact us at meandmyboyssoap@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – AUG. 25, 2026 – DEERFIELD, Ill., Baxter International Inc. (NYSE:BAX) is voluntarily recalling one lot of 70% Dextrose Injection due to the potential presence of particulate matter identified as stainless steel particles in the solution.
Risk Statement: Intravenous administration of 70% Dextrose Injection containing stainless steel particulate matter may lead to serious adverse health consequences. Particulate matter can cause blockage and clotting in blood vessels which can cut off blood flow to vital organs, lead to a life-threatening blood clot in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and cause permanent organ damage or death. Additionally, these particles may cause local vein irritation, inflammatory reaction, aggravation of preexisting infections, and allergic reactions. As of 8/25/2026, Baxter has not received any reports of adverse events related to this issue.
Revival Animal Health of Orange City, IA is recalling Breeder’s Edge® and Shelter’s Choice® Feline Milk Replacers due to low, levels of potassium, copper, folic acid, choline and/or pyridoxine (vitamin B6).
Kittens, especially neonates, are a very vulnerable population: their organ systems are immature, they grow rapidly, and they are entirely dependent on their milk as a source of all nutrients. Deficiencies that might be subclinical in adult cats can be rapidly fatal or cause permanent developmental damage in kittens. Kittens fed milk replacer that is deficient in copper, potassium, vitamin B6, folic acid, and choline face compounding, multi-system risks, such as anemia, neurological dysfunction, liver failure, kidney damage, skeletal diseases, and cardiac compromise. Due to the rapid growth of young kittens, clinical signs may appear within days to a few weeks, and the deficiencies can be fatal or cause permanent organ damage if not recognized in time. Consumers who have kittens that have consumed any of the recalled products and are showing clinical signs should contact their veterinarian.
Recalled products were sold nationwide online and in retail pet stores. Products are packaged in multiple sizes of stand-up resealable bags and 12 oz jars. Consumers should stop feeding the products listed below to their kittens:
No illnesses resulting from the use of these products have been confirmed, but Revival is investigating nine complaints of potential gastrointestinal and bone development issues.
Jaime’s Foods ATX of Austin, TEXAS is recalling Jaime’s Spanish Village Jalapeno Ranch because it contains undeclared eggs. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.
The product was sold at Central Market retail stores in Texas and local independent retailers in Austin, Texas beginning on April 3, 2026.
The recalled Jaime’s Spanish Village Jalapeno Ranch dressing is packed in 16 oz (45.5g) glass jars with UPC #199284564923. Recalled lot numbers include the following: 69, 86, 108, 113, 116, and 121. The lot code can be found stamped on the bottom of the jar.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – AUG. 25, 2026 – DEERFIELD, Ill., Baxter International Inc. (NYSE: BAX) is voluntarily recalling one lot of Anticoagulant Sodium Citrate Solution due to the potential presence of particulate matter identified as fiberglass in the solution.
Risk Statement: Anticoagulant Sodium Citrate Solution is intended for use with automated apheresis devices. Administration of Anticoagulant Sodium Citrate containing particulate matter may lead to adverse health consequences; the extent and severity of harm depend on the size, number, morphology, and composition of the foreign material. In the absence of in-line filtration, these particles may cause local vein irritation, inflammatory or hypersensitivity reactions, and systemic embolization that could result in tissue or organ injury. As of 8/25/2026, Baxter has not received any reports of adverse events related to this issue.
KANE, Pa. – According to a recent study by AARP, an estimated 63 million American adults provide ongoing care to a family member, friend, or neighbor with a medical condition or disability. That care can include support with critical daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, as well as everyday needs like shopping, financial management, and transportation. However, most individuals who take on a caregiving role at home have never received formal training. That’s why three local businesses are teaming up to provide knowledge and support to caregivers in need.
Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC), UPMC Kane, and The Lutheran Home at Kane have partnered to offer Home Care Basics: Practical Support for Caring for a Loved One. This non-medical, educational program is designed to help caregivers feel more confident, prepared, and supported as they navigate the challenges of caring for someone.
A series of monthly programs will offer training and information to assist caregivers. All programs are free and open to the public. The next program will be held on September 1 at 6:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall of the Presbyterian Church of Kane, using the Chase Street entrance. This program will focus on ways to create a safer home environment and support the activities that help individuals maintain their independence. Presenters will include Stoeffaunnie Thomas, Director of Nursing at the Lutheran Home of Kane; and Kellie Ely and Mary Yeager of UPMC Kane speaking on physical and occupational therapy.
Additional programs will be offered on October 6, November 10, and December 1, with each covering a different aspect of caring for someone at home. Participants may attend as many or as few sessions as they would like. For more information, contact NPRC’s Director of Community Development Dannielle Fickenworth at dfickenworth@nrpc.edu or visit https://bit.ly/NPRC-HomeCareBasics to register.
PITTSBURGH – University of Pittsburgh at Bradford hospitality management major Mia Dunleavy got a taste of her future profession this summer as a cruise director for the Gateway Clipper Fleet, a group of five riverboats in Pittsburgh that cruise the city’s famous Three Rivers, the Allegheny, the Monongahela and the Ohio.
The Gateway Clipper offers cruises for sightseeing, dining and a unique way to shuttle to and from professional sports stadiums on the North Shore of the Ohio River.
The company also works private events, such as weddings and corporate events.
The junior from Allison Park worked them all, getting a variety of experience.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that the Port Allegany man charged with causing the death of a Port Allegany woman in February of 2025 has now been convicted of Murder in the 1st Degree. Brian KUCHINKA pled guilty to causing her death and abuse of a corpse during a hearing in September but did not agree that he intentionally killed her, leaving the Judge to decide if the death was Murder in the 1st Degree, Murder in the 3rd Degree, Voluntary Manslaughter or Involuntary Manslaughter.
Trooper Whitney Boshart of the Pennsylvania State Police-Lewis Run was the lead investigator. She testified that, on February 21, 2025, K-Leigh Hill-Nelson was reported missing after not showing up for her job at a nursing home in Smethport for the start of her shift at 10pm. Co-workers and family members attempted to reach her. Residents of Smethport who were driving in the area of Water Street around 930 pm on February 21st testified that they heard yelling and honking, saw a woman believed to be Hill-Nelson appearing visibly distraught, and saw a vehicle known to be driven by KUCHINKA abandoned in the street. Two of them called 911.
Trooper Boshart requested videos from area businesses and residences. Video surveillance from private residences and businesses throughout Smethport, Port Allegany, and Turtlepoint showed the route of Hill-Nelson’s vehicle travel before being located in the parking lot of a closed restaurant in Port Allegany with blood on the seats, floors, and steering wheel. Residents near the nursing home where the victim worked testified that they heard what they believed to be a gunshot at approximately 9:57 pm on February 21st and then saw the car speed down the roadway. They took a photo of the car and provided it to Trooper Boshart. The vehicle in the photo appears to be Hill-Nelson’s vehicle. The locations of the cell phones of KUCHINKA and Hill-Nelson were mapped through phone records and showed that Hill-Nelson was travelling her normal route to work and KUCHINKA drove toward her. Once KUCHINKA’s phone was in the location of Hill-Nelson’s phone, KUCHINKA changed his direction and the two phones then continued to travel in close proximity to each other. Videos showed KUCHINKA driving behind Hill-Nelson into Smethport before he passed her on Water Street and left his car abandoned on Water Street. He was later seen in Hill-Nelson’s vehicle.
Trooper Boshart reviewed Facebook and Snapchat records and testified that the records revealed that KUCHINKA searched Facebook for Hill-Nelson over 300 times over a few days and searched the name of a man she had recently reconnected with numerous times. Witnesses testified that KUCHINKA was known to hack into Hill-Nelson’s social media accounts and was confronted for doing so. Records showed that his phone was used to log into her Facebook account numerous times in the days leading up to her murder, including the same day of her murder and, further, showed that she unfriended him and changed the password to her account just hours before her murder. Her Facebook account was accessed even after she was killed.
Smethport Police Chief Kevin Seipp testified that he was dispatched for the disturbance involving two people on Water Street and located the abandoned vehicle that is now known to have been driven by KUCHINKA. He testified that, the next day, he and Officer Tony Tanner of Port Allegany Police investigated the missing person’s report and came to believe that Hill-Nelson may be in the hotel room that KUCHINKA had recently rented. KUCHINKA had been evicted by Hill-Nelson and her father a few weeks before and, initially, refused to leave the residence. They and a relative of Hill-Nelson went to the motel and, hearing no response, the officers opened the window and heard a gunshot. Numerous members of law enforcement in McKean and neighboring counties converged on the motel to back up the officers and attempted to take KUCHINKA into custody. Once phone contact was made, KUCHINKA reported that Hill-Nelson was not with him and that she should be ok. He was ordered to leave his gun in the room and surrender to police. After several hours, he surrendered to the Troopers’ commands, but they observed a gun in his back pocket. Once on his knees, troopers ran to place handcuffs on him and confiscated the firearm. It was found to have a bullet in the chamber. KUCHINKA was found to have shot himself and suffered a head wound that required treatment but was not life-threatening. Troopers cleared the room and discovered Hill-Nelson’s lifeless body found under the bed without clothes. She died of a gunshot wound to her head. Video from the area of the hotel room captured KUCHINKA carrying her lifeless body from her vehicle into the room a few hours after she failed to appear for work.
DA Vettenburg-Shaffer thanked Trooper Boshart and the other officers who worked on the case and recognized the family of Hill-Nelson. “The investigation in this case was extensive and included obtaining physical evidence, electronic records, and scientific evidence. Excellent police work resulted in the evidence that was required to hold KUCHINKA accountable. Of course, this verdict only brings the criminal case one step closer to completion, but the family will be left to mourn K-Leigh for the rest of their lives. K-Leigh was a mother, daughter, sister, niece and friend and her absence will be felt by many people forever.” If you are a victim of domestic violence, help is available at the YWCA of Bradford at 1-888-822-6325.
The Potter County Housing Authority has immediate availability for a 2 bedroom apartment:
Honeoye Haven apartments, located in Shinglehouse, PA
This apartment is a 2-bedroom with wall to wall carpeting, central heating and air conditioning, range and refrigerator included. This apartment is not available to a single person.
To be eligible you must be 62 years of age or older or disabled. Rent is based on 30% of your income. Includes electric, trash, water and sewer.
For more information please call the Potter County Housing Authority at (814) 274-7031 TTY/TDD #711 or stop by our office at 109 Market Street, Coudersport.
The Potter County Housing Authority does not discriminate against any person because of Race, Color, Sex, Religion, National or Ethnic Origin, Familial Status, Gender Identity or Handicap.
