Ok folks…I have a friend who is going to take care of my Bradford distributions. This is the schedule for Saturday the 8th. If you are not able to pick up backpacks yourself, please send a family member or friend.

(Washington, D.C., Aug. 3, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) Administrator Karl Elmshaeuser today announced $410 million available in the new Powering Affordable Reliable Technology (PART) Program to increase the supply of rural power and support the reliability of America’s electrical grid.

“This new opportunity advances President Trump’s priorities to strengthen America’s energy infrastructure and lower costs for American families,” said Administrator Elmshaeuser. “Guided by the President’s executive orders to bring back energy dominance and strength, we’re working to ensure our grid is resilient in the face of growing demand.”

PART, administered through USDA Rural Development’s RUS, offers partially forgivable loans to invest in infrastructure that produces electricity from hydro, geothermal or biomass energy sources as well as investments in energy storage systems to make intermittent renewable energy systems more reliable. Financing new reliable, resilient and affordable sources of power as well as storage devices adds reliability, resiliency and dispatchability to sources of power.

Individual awards for partially forgivable loans will range between $1 million and $100 million and will support affordable power for American families, and infrastructure that keeps pace with economic expansion.

RUS is accepting Letters of Interest beginning September 8,2026, and until October 9, 2026.

For more information on this program, visit the program page online and review the full Notice of Funding Opportunity.

For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making agency investment data accessible to the public.

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

In an effort to support the ongoing renovations to the Hanley Library, an electrical shutdown of the facility will be initiated on Friday, August 7. To accommodate this situation, the building, including the library, will be closed for the day. The facility will reopen, with normal operating hours for all offices, on Monday, August 10. 

Thank you for your understanding and patience as this project continues, and please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Gregory Miller

Director of Facilities Management

Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced the following schedule of maintenance activities in Potter County the week of August 3. PennDOT performs year-round maintenance in its mission to provide a safe, efficient transportation system, and the scope of work in Potter County for the coming week is as follows:

Patching

• Route 6 between the McKean-Potter County line and Dry Run Road in Sweden Township. Monday, August 3, through Friday, August 7. Flaggers in the roadway will provide traffic control during daylight hours and may deploy a pilot vehicle. When encountering a pilot vehicle with a “Pilot Car Follow Me” sign mounted on the rear and a revolving yellow light, drivers must remain behind it until it has left the roadway. Do not pass.
• All of Route 1005 (Phoenix Road/Phoenix Run Road). Monday, August 3, through Friday, August 7. Flaggers in the roadway will provide traffic control during daylight hours and may deploy a pilot vehicle. When encountering a pilot vehicle with a “Pilot Car Follow Me” sign mounted on the rear and a revolving yellow light, drivers must remain behind it until it has left the roadway. Do not pass.

Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced the following schedule of maintenance activities in McKean County the week of August 3rd. PennDOT performs year-round maintenance in its mission to provide a safe, efficient transportation system, and the scope of work in McKean County for the coming week is as follows:

Bridge Maintenance & Cleaning

• Route 346 at a bridge spanning an unnamed tributary of Foster Brook in Foster Township. Monday, August 3, through Friday, August 7. Flaggers in the roadway will provide traffic control during daylight hours and may deploy a pilot vehicle. When encountering a pilot vehicle with a “Pilot Car Follow Me” sign mounted on the rear and a revolving yellow light, drivers must remain behind it until it has left the roadway. Do not pass.

Pennsylvania has some of the oldest bridges in the country, with an average age of more than 50 years. Preventive maintenance is vital in extending the life of the structures. As such, PennDOT maintenance crews perform some bridge deck patching and structural repairs.

Edmond R. “Ed” Fichte, 94, of Bradford, passed away on August 1, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side. 

Born on September 25, 1931, in Oil City, he was the son of Ernest and Martha Fichte (nee Rupert) and grew up in St. Petersburg.

In 1956, he married the love of his life Joyce Fichte (nee McBride).

Ed was a Navy veteran serving for eight years on active duty and reserves. He later graduated with a BS degree in electrical engineering. Settling in Bradford to raise his family, Ed worked at various engineering jobs including Corning Glass and Ingersoll Rand. After retirement, he and his wife enjoyed traveling to campgrounds and later purchased a trailer at a camp resort in Bath, NY where they had many happy times.

Ed was an avid nonfiction reader and researched information for his many interests and projects. His talents were vast, and he was able to repair and build almost anything. Ed enjoyed hunting, growing flowers and vegetables, and also raised chickens that he hatched in his basement incubator. Ed and his granddaughter Sara loved to discuss Buffalo Bills football.

Surviving in addition to his wife Joyce, of 70 years, is one daughter Lesa (Thomas Koppenhaver) Fichte, one granddaughter Sara Koppenhaver, one brother Daniel Fichte, sister-in-laws Carol (Richard) Ashbaugh, Sandra (Robert) Best, Deborah Myers, Gladys Fichte, as well as nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death in addition to his parents, are a brother Mark Fichte, his son Casey Fichte, and many beloved dogs.

Services will be private. Interment will be in the St. Petersburg Cemetery, St. Petersburg.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the McKean County SPCA, PO Box 113, Bradford, PA 16701 or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

If your McKean County organization has been looking for a way to fund a new project or enhance an existing program, consider applying for a Women’s Giving Circle (WGC) grant.

Women’s Giving Circle, a project of the McKean County Community Foundation (MCCF), is pleased to announce that grant applications for the 2026 granting cycle are now available. Applications must be submitted by September 23, 2026, and grant awards will be presented at the group’s annual meeting in November.

All nonprofit organizations, municipalities, schools, and churches serving the public in McKean County are eligible to apply for funding. Grants may be awarded for start-up initiatives, new projects, or enhancements to existing programs. Projects must enhance the quality of life for families in McKean County.

The maximum grant award is $2,000. The application is now online and available through the MCCF website at www.mckeancountyfoundation.org.  The new process is designed to be simple and accessible. Organizations needing assistance with the application process are encouraged to contact the Community Foundation at 814-834-2125.

Since its first granting cycle in 2020, Women’s Giving Circle has awarded more than $49,000 in grants throughout the community. The organization brings together women from diverse backgrounds who combine their charitable contributions to strengthen McKean County through the power of collective giving.

The McKean County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies, is dedicated to improving lives throughout the region by partnering with philanthropic donors to help them achieve their charitable goals.

On July 21, 2026, the City of Bradford Police Department arrested Matthew Haas, following an investigation into a theft incident that occurred on June 5, 2026. According to the investigation, Haas allegedly stole a baby stroller from the front porch of a residence located at 59 Jefferson Street.

The stolen stroller was valued at $450.00. Haas was taken into custody and arraigned by Magistrate Luther. He was remanded to McKean County Jail on $10,000 straight cash bail. Preliminary hearings in the matter have been scheduled.

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The City of Bradford Police Department is committed to serving and protecting our community. 

RIDGWAY—The Elk County Community Foundation (ECCF) is accepting applications for grants from the Borough of Ridgway Charitable Fund through September 15. The fund supports organizations and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents of the Borough of Ridgway.

Grants are available to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, schools, and churches that serve the Ridgway area. Funding may be awarded for start-up initiatives, new projects, or improvements to established programs that benefit the community.

The Borough of Ridgway Charitable Fund was established in 2006 through a generous gift from the estate of Sara-Jane Stackpole. Since its inception, the fund has awarded more than $330,000 to organizations serving Ridgway residents.

“The Borough of Ridgway Charitable Fund continues to provide valuable resources for local organizations working to strengthen our community,” said Tiffany Boschert, ECCF Executive Director. “We encourage eligible organizations to apply for projects and programs that will have a lasting impact on the residents of Ridgway.”

The deadline to submit grant applications is September 15. Instructions and a link to our online grant portal are available on the Foundation’s website at www.elkcountyfoundation.org. For additional information, contact the Elk County Community Foundation at 814-834-2125.

The Elk County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies, strengthens the region through development, stewardship, and grantmaking while partnering with donors to achieve their philanthropic goals.

Belmont, NY — The Allegany County Department of Health is investigating one confirmed case of measles in an unvaccinated resident with a recent history of travel to Ohio. The Allegany County Department of Health was notified of the positive result on August 2, 2026. The resident began showing symptoms on Saturday, August 1, 2026, and is safely isolating at home until they are no longer contagious. To protect resident/patient privacy, additional details will not be released. Potential public exposure site(s) have been identified, and the Health Department has reached out to those who may have come in contact with the resident. 

Potential Exposures & Contact Tracing

Because measles is a highly contagious airborne virus, public health officials conduct thorough contact tracing of the confirmed case. The Allegany County Department of Health, in close contact with local health care providers, has successfully identified and directly contacted all individuals known to have been exposed. To date, 23 direct contacts have been identified through contact tracing and have been provided information and guidance. The Health Department has notified other community and health care partners to place them on high alert.

What Exposed/Non-Exposed Individuals Should Do

1. Check Your Immunity / Vaccination Status

You are generally considered immune to measles if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You have documented records of receiving two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
• You were born before 1957.
• A healthcare provider has previously confirmed through a blood test that you are immune.

If you are fully vaccinated, your risk of contracting measles is very low. Unvaccinated individuals, young infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are at the highest risk for severe complications. If you have symptoms or someone has notified you of an exposure, limit your activity outside of your home and with others.

2. Monitor for Symptoms for 21 Days

If you were exposed or think you were exposed, monitor yourself and your family members for symptoms.

Early symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include:

• High fever (often rising above 101 degrees F)
• Cough
• Runny nose (coryza)
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)

Subsequent symptoms:

• A red, blotchy rash typically appears 3 to 5 days after initial symptoms begin, usually starting on the face along the hairline and spreading downward to the rest of the body.

3. Post-Exposure Options (Act Quickly)

If you are unvaccinated, pregnant, or immunocompromised AND were exposed, contact your health care provider or ACDOH right away.

• The MMR vaccine given within 72 hours of exposure, or immune globulin (IG) given within 6 days, can prevent or reduce the severity of measles illness.

4. Call Ahead Before Seeking Medical Care

DO NOT walk into a clinic, urgent care, or emergency room without calling first.

If you develop symptoms or suspect you were exposed, call your primary care provider or the Emergency Room before arriving. Inform them that you may have been exposed to measles. This allows healthcare facilities to take precautions—such as placing you in an isolated room immediately—to prevent spreading the virus to other vulnerable patients in the waiting room or other areas.

About Measles

Measles is a viral illness spread through coughing and sneezing. The virus can remain alive and infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has left the room. An individual who has measles is contagious 4-days prior to a rash beginning and 4-days after the rash appears. Symptoms of measles typically begin between 7 and 14 days after exposure to the virus. Approximately 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to the virus will contract it.

Risk to the Public

The overall risk of measles to the general public remains low, particularly for individuals who are fully vaccinated against the disease. However, measles is extremely contagious, and anyone unvaccinated, pregnant, under 12 months of age, or immunocompromised is at a higher risk and should talk with their health care provider.

For questions regarding this public notice or measles vaccination, contact the Allegany County Department of Health at 585-268-9250 or visit www.alleganyco.gov/departments/health/ or www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/measles/.

*NEW UPDATE – ONE LANE OPEN*

Tractor trailer fire on I-86 eastbound Exit 39 – NY 960U; Babcock Hollow Road; Ramp (Bath) to Exit 40 – NY 226; Ramp (Bath) ALL LANES closed EB lanes closed Detour exit 39 to SR 415
Visit 511NY.org for more information

NY-Alert Support – NYAlertSupport@its.ny.gov

www.Alert.ny.gov

It’s that time again for the Turtlepoint Farmers Market! Happening Saturday, August 8th, from 9-12. Stop down to meet local vendors, farmers, and growers from our area! There will be a variety of goods ranging from fresh produce and homemade breads to Amish baked goods! Mammy’s Market will be present with plenty of fresh produce, accepting the Farmers Market Nutrition Program checks. Issued by the Office of Aging and also to WIC participants.

Vendors are always welcome to come set up. We run on a first-come, first-served basis for table spots under the pavilion. The market is located at Turtlepoint Park, on Larabee Road, Turtlepoint PA! For more information, please visit our Facebook page! 

Bradford, PA – The 33rd Annual CARE ‘fore’ Children Golf Tournament, presented by Premier Sponsors Allegheny Bradford Corporation, the Kids and Cancer Benefit, the Philo & Sarah Blaisdell Foundation, and Zippo Manufacturing Company, was held on Sunday, August 2nd at the Pennhills Club in Bradford.

To date, the tournament has raised over $45,000, with proceeds benefiting CARE for Children’s free outreach services for children with developmental delays and disabilities. These services include pediatric developmental screenings, therapeutic recreation, and child safety initiatives aimed at preventing injuries and fatalities.

This year’s Course Sponsors included Brad Mangel – in memory of Sally Mangel, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Marshall Insurance Services, Inc. Flight Sponsors were Emporium Food Market and Olean Food Barn, Greg and Cherie Booth – in memory of Ashley Booth Griffin, CNB Bank, Northwest Bank, Pine Valley Nurseries, and Joe & Erin Strotman.

Pictured: Front Row: Andrianna Keesler-Miss Smethport, Mara Ours-reigning Fair Queen, Braelyn Taylor – Miss Port Allegany, Second Row: Ellie Bennett – Miss Otto Eldred, Rory Undercoffer – Mis Kane, Claire Storer – Miss Bradford, Back Row: Jim Trussell – Mt Jewett Rotary Club President

The Mt Jewett Rotary Club held their Annual meet the McKean County Fair Queens picnic at Forty-Acres. (Special thanks to President Trussell for once again opening his home to the event).

President Jim Trussell Welcomed the Queens to the Annual Event. As is the tradition for this event President Trussell presented each of the queens with a jar of pickles.  He also presented each with two ornate wooden Swedish Dala Horses in recognition of the upcoming Swedish Festival.  Each of the five contestants gave a short presentation about their background and highlighted a day’s events at the upcoming McKean County Fair.  The Mount Jewett Rotary Club wishes all of the Queen contestants the best in all of their endeavors. 

Position Vacancy

Mathematics & Learning Innovation Teacher

The Austin Area School District is seeking an innovative, student-centered educator to join our team as a Mathematics & Learning Innovation Teacher beginning with the 2026-2027 school year.

This unique position offers the opportunity to make an impact well beyond the classroom by supporting mathematics instruction while contributing to the district’s innovative educational initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities

• Teach Middle School Mathematics (Grades 7 and 8)
• Teach one upper-level high school mathematics course (anticipated Geometry)
• Collaborate with colleagues to strengthen mathematics instruction across grade levels
• Support implementation of the district’s Enhanced Learning Academy through instructional collaboration and planning
• Provide instructional leadership and consultation to colleagues as appropriate
• Contribute to the continued growth and sustainability of Pathway Studios and other innovative district initiatives
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent or Principal

Qualifications

• Pennsylvania certification in Mathematics required (Middle Level and/or Secondary Mathematics preferred)
• Additional certifications are highly desirable
• Strong instructional knowledge and commitment to student growth
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to work across grade levels
• Interest in innovative instructional models and personalized learning

Why Austin?

Austin Area School District is a small rural district with a big vision. We believe every student deserves opportunities typically found only in much larger schools. Through initiatives such as Enhanced Learning Academy and Pathway Studios, we are reimagining what education can look like in a rural community.

We are looking for educators who value:

• Building meaningful relationships with students
• Collaboration and continuous improvement
• Creative problem-solving
• Innovation in teaching and learning
• Being part of a close-knit school community where every staff member makes a difference

Salary and Benefits

Salary and benefits in accordance with the Austin Area Education Association Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Application Process

Interested applicants should submit:

• Letter of interest
• Standard Pennsylvania teaching application
• Resume
• Pennsylvania certificate
• Transcripts
• Current clearances
• Three letters of reference

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Please submit application materials to:

Kimberly Rees, Superintendent
Austin Area School District
138 Costello Avenue
Austin, PA 16720

Email: krees@austinsd.net
Phone: 814-647-8603

Austin Area School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.