Kaleida Health Announces Launch Of New Patient Record System, Advancing Care Coordination Across Western New York
Buffalo, NY — June 3, 2026 — On May 30, 2026, Kaleida Health officially launched its new, system‑wide patient record platform using Epic software, a major modernization initiative designed to improve care coordination, streamline clinical workflows and enhance the patient experience across all Kaleida Health facilities.
The new platform replaces multiple legacy electronic health systems with a single, unified, integrated electronic health record (EHR), giving clinicians real‑time access to patient information and enabling smoother transitions of care. The upgrade is one of the most significant digital investments in Kaleida Health’s recent history and one of the most transformational enhancements to healthcare in Western New York.
Epic is widely considered the gold standard for hospitals across the country, with more than 40% of U.S. hospitals currently utilizing this platform.[i] Epic is known for its advanced capabilities and unmatched operability, helping to support seamless coordination of care across healthcare systems. Additionally, many physicians, nurses and clinicians train using Epic in academic and clinical settings, providing Kaleida Health with a recruitment advantage by offering new graduates with familiarity and confidence with the Epic system.
Along with Kaleida Health, several other key healthcare organizations will transition to Epic software as well to further advance streamlined, coordinated care across the region. Other organizations include General Physician, Olean General Hospital, Olean Medical Group, outpatient departments in Bradford inside the former Bradford Regional Medical Center building, Brooks-TLC Hospital System, Inc., Lake Erie Medical Services, and Cuba Memorial Hospital. ECMC and UBMD Physicians’ Group will be going live with the new system later this year.
Patients of these organizations are encouraged to download the all new patient portal, MyChart. MyChart offers an easy way for patients to see test results, schedule appointments, pay bills, order prescription refills, check in for appointments, message their care teams, and manage care for their families. To create an account, visit the MyChart – Login Page.
“This new system represents a transformational step forward for our organization and the communities we serve,” said Courtney Starnes, chief information officer for Kaleida Health. “By bringing all patient information into one secure, connected platform, we’re empowering our care teams with the tools they need to deliver safer, faster and more coordinated care.”
Key benefits of the new patient record system include:
· Unified patient information accessible across all Kaleida Health locations
· Improved communication between care teams and departments
· Enhanced patient safety through standardized documentation and reduced duplication
· Streamlined workflows that allow clinicians to spend more time with patients
· Modern digital tools that support long‑term innovation and system growth
· Improved patient experience allowing patients to have firsthand control over their healthcare journey
Kaleida Health is comprised of more than 13,000 employees, providers and staff across the organization who all helped to make this transition possible. The move to a single Epic instance represented a complex, multi-year effort requiring extensive planning, training, testing, and collaboration across every facet of the organization.
“The successful launch of our new electronic health record is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the dedication, expertise, resilience and teamwork across our healthcare system,” said Don Boyd, president and CEO of Kaleida Health. “This was a massive undertaking that touched nearly every area of operations, and the level of coordination from clinical, operational, technical and support teams was truly remarkable. Thank you to every employee and provider who contributed throughout this journey and helped make this milestone a reality.”
Kaleida Health will continue rolling out training and support resources to ensure a smooth transition for staff and patients.
“We want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul and her administration for their commitment to healthcare and reinforcing our vision of unifying Western New York onto one medical system,” added Boyd. “We’re very thankful for the Governor’s support as we continue to innovate and improve healthcare across our region.”
About Kaleida Health
Kaleida Health is the largest healthcare provider in Western New York, serving the area’s eight counties with state-of-the-art technology and comprehensive healthcare services. Its expert, compassionate healthcare professionals are committed to providing the best possible outcomes and experience for patients and visitors.
More than one million sick or injured patients choose a Kaleida Health facility annually, including Bradford Regional Medical Center, Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute, DeGraff Medical Park, Golisano Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, and Olean General Hospital.
Accredited by DNV Healthcare, Kaleida Health also provides important services through two long-term care facilities, nearly 80 outpatient clinics, including school-based health centers, and home health care through the Visiting Nursing Association of WNY, Inc. In addition, Kaleida Health’s hospitals support residency training programs of the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, training more than 700 residents each year.
May 2026 Galeton Weather Report

April showers brought May showers this year. It was a cool, rainy month with many cloudy, breezy days. We had three or four mornings with frost and freeze warnings. On the 12th, we had a strong thunderstorm with heavy wind.
Rainfall this year was 4.80″. Last year the total was 6.12″. Pine Creek looks very nice. The rafters and canoers had a good month to enjoy Pine Creek, as did fishermen.
Of course, the plentiful rainfall made the grass grow. The lawn tractors hit the lawns in force. The acres of lawns now look like well-maintained golf courses. That all takes time. I wonder what other things are neglected.
Henry W. Lush NWS Observer, Along with Alyson Lush
PA PUC Public Meeting Agenda for June 4, 2026

Harrisburg – The PUC will hold its regular public meeting on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Hearing Room 1 on the second floor of the Commonwealth Keystone Building in Harrisburg.
Livestream of the Public MeetingThe PUC will be streaming video of its regularly scheduled public meetings live on its website.
Public Meeting AgendaHere is the link for the Public Meeting Agenda for June 4, 2026.
Archived Audio and VideoA link to the archived audio will be accessible at the Public Meeting Video page and will be posted shortly after the conclusion of the public meeting.
For more information about the PUC visit our website at puc.pa.gov.
Richard J. Luke, 59, oF Bradford

Richard J. Luke, 59, of Bradford, passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Penn Highlands DuBois.
He was born on July 11, 1966 in Bradford; a son of the late Robert and Judy Walker Luke.
He was a 1984 graduate of the Bradford Area High School.
He was a decorated U.S. Marine Corps veteran; who served from 1984 until his honorable discharge in 1992.
He was currently employed as a cook at Togi’s Restaurant.
He was a member of the Lt. John C. Roche Post 212 VFW, American Legion Post 108, the Italian American Progressive Club and the Marche Club. Richard was an outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing and he was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan. In his final act of heroism; Rick donated his organs to help save others in need.
He is survived by one son, Richard Luke of Ramona, CA; three brothers, Robert Luke, Shawn Luke and David (Kay) Newman all of Bradford; three sisters, Debra Luke, Amy Luke and Tracy (Jason) Blake all of Bradford; his stepmother, Sally Luke of Lewis Run; one grandchild on the way and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends on Friday, June 5, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.
Donations in his memory can be made to the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc. to help the family with funeral expenses.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.
Online Condolences can be expressed at www.maschofuneral.com.
Public Comment Period Opens for Proposed PUC Consumer Protection Rulemaking

Stakeholders may submit comments through July 27 on proposed updates to utility consumer protection regulations
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) announced the opening of the public comment period for a proposed rulemaking that would formally incorporate key consumer protection provisions into the Commission’s regulations governing residential utility service.
The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR), approved by the Commission in February 2026, has now been published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, beginning the formal public comment process.
The proposed rulemaking would amend portions of 52 Pa. Code Chapter 56 to incorporate consumer protection provisions that have guided residential utility service standards for years, providing a clear and consistent regulatory framework for consumers and utilities.
“The publication of this proposed rulemaking marks an important step in the regulatory review process,” said PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank. “The Commission now looks forward to receiving and reviewing comments submitted by interested parties as we continue evaluating these proposed regulations.”
Submitting Comments
Under the schedule established in the NOPR:…
UPMC, STAT MedEvac Celebrate Start of Critical Care Helicopter Operations

Muncy, Pa., June 2, 2026 – UPMC and STAT MedEvac marked the start of critical care helicopter operations at UPMC Muncy with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, expanding emergency response capabilities for Lycoming County and the broader northcentral Pennsylvania region. The base improves access to advanced care for patients in rural communities where distance and terrain can delay treatment.
Leaders from UPMC and STAT MedEvac gathered at UPMC Muncy to commemorate the opening and recognize the collaboration that made the new service possible.
In The Grip of Fear

We live in a society greatly affected and controlled by fear. There was a time when we weren’t afraid to leave our doors unlocked. Strangers could knock on our door, and we’d be more likely to greet them with a hearty hello rather than the suspicious eye we cast today. Has society changed that much over the years? Are we getting worse, or are we just more aware of the evil in the world? News reporting is big business, and I, like many, have my favorite news broadcasters. But in our desire to have all the news, are we being fed more and more sensationalism? Now I’m not here to debate these issues, but I am concerned about the amount of fear in people’s lives that affects their everyday lives. Fear cripples and controls. Those who are gripped by fear know what that means. Fear controls their every movement, their thoughts, actions, and relationships. Fear is closely related to anxiety, for fear produces anxiety. I admit that there are some things that need to be feared, but that’s not true of all things.
I once heard that fear is False Evidence Appearing Real. Did you catch that? False evidence, not real, but false. When we start responding and reacting to false evidence, our emotions will be the same as if it were real evidence. Fear is often related to projection. That is, we project outcomes onto scenarios and develop emotional responses based on those projections. For example, when the boss sets up a meeting with us, we project what the meeting will be about, and, assuming the worst, we react with fear and anxiety. Is there a solution or relief for our fear?
Depending on which concordance you use, there are about 365 references to fear in the Bible. One of my favorites appears in Joshua, where Joshua is encouraged to “Fear not, for the Lord your God is with you.” You see, part of the problem with fear is that it speaks to our level of trust. If God is who He says He is, then isn’t it reasonable to believe He can accomplish all that He said He would? Perhaps the problem isn’t fear but rather who or what I’ve placed my trust in. Think about it.
Champion Foods Recalls Some Batches of Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread Because of Possible Health Risk

MAY 29, 2026 – Champion Foods LLC of New Boston, Michigan, is voluntarily recalling certain batches of Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread (“5 Cheese Bread”) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. This action follows a California Dairies, Inc. milk powder recall due to a concern of potential Salmonella contamination.
Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e. infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.
The recalled milk powder was supplied to a third-party manufacturer that provides a seasoning blend used in our 5 cheese sauce blend. To date, neither Champion Foods LLC nor our suppliers have received any reports of illness or injury related to these products. Routine testing conducted by the seasonings blend manufacturer prior to use in the production of the 5 Cheese Bread showed that the seasonings batches tested negative for Salmonella; however, we are taking action out of an abundance of caution for the safety of our customers.
Trail Central | Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau Announce Marketing & Event Grant Program

Matching grant program funds up to $2500 for businesses, organizations and events for tourism marketing
Bradford, (PA) – Trail Central | The Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureauis pleased to announce the summer and fall Marketing and Event Marketing Program. This program will fund eligible projects and events through December 31. Since its inception in Summer 2024, the Marketing and Event Grant Program has supported 25 events and marketing initiatives in McKean County totaling $60,000.
The Bureau’s semi-annual grant program aims to fund qualified McKean County organizations and businesses to strengthen our tourism products, increase the marketing, promotion and advertising of tourism related business and enhance the quality of events.
‘Stitched Stories’ Quilt Show June 13

In conjunction with Coudersport’s America250 celebrations, the Coudersport Public Library will host “Stitched Stories: A Quilt Show” on Saturday, June 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at First United Presbyterian Church of Coudersport.
All are invited. Quilts for judging by an experienced panel of quilters will be on show, in addition to heirloom and historical quilts. Cash prizes and ribbons will be awarded for First and Second places in all categories, along with Best of Show and People’s Choice prizes. A light lunch will be available by donation.
All are invited. Admission is $5.00. Deadline for entry form submission is Friday, June 5. Space may be limited; entries will be accepted on a first-come basis.
Detailed entry forms for both Judged and Display pieces are available at the Library, Potter County Artisan Center, various quilt and sewing shops and at public libraries throughout the area. They may also be obtained by clicking on the link in the Quilt Show article at Coudersportlibrary.org.
Proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit the Coudersport Public Library’s general operating fund.
Lois A. Commino, 83, Of Roulette, PA

Lois A. COMMINO, 83, of Roulette, PA, died Sunday, May 31, 2026 in UPMC Cole, Coudersport. Born May 18, 1943, in Roulette, she was the daughter of Marcus R. and Margaret E. Baker Nichols.
On Sept. 28, 1963, in Roulette, she married Larry A. Commino, who predeceased her on October 5, 2021. A 1961 graduate of Port Allegany High School, she was employed by Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport and 6 B’s Craft Barn in Roulette. Lois was a member of Riverside United Methodist Church in Roulette, Roulette Fire Department Auxiliary, and served as director of the Blue Devilettes of Roulette for 22 years. She enjoyed camping, boating, and traveling.
She is survived by nieces, nephews, and godsons. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by a sister, Jeralyn Nichols; and a brother, Vernon M. Nichols.
A private graveside service will be held in Hill Cemetery, Roulette. Rev. James A. Cannistraci will officiate. Memorials may be made to the Roulette Fire Department.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Switzer Chapel, 77 Willow Street, Port Allegany, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Susan A. “Sue” Cole, 65, Of Elmer, PA

Susan A. “Sue” COLE, 65, of Elmer, PA, died Saturday, May 30, 2026 in her home. Born July 9, 1960, in Wellsboro, she was the daughter of Edward D. and Beverly Simmons Collins.
On May 30, 1981, she married William D. Cole, who survives. A 1978 graduate of Cowanesque Valley High School, she was employed by Electri-Cord in Westfield, K&W in Westfield, and Austin Construction in Campbell, NY. Sue served as secretary / treasurer of Harrison Valley Little League.
Surviving besides her husband, Bill, are: her mother, Beverly Collins of Westfield; two children, William (Brandy Nederfield) Cole, Jr. of Tioga and Angela (Nick) Green of Lawrenceville, GA; five grandchildren; three siblings, Rick (Sis) Collins of Elkland, Shawn (Danielle) Collins of Mount Airy, NC, and Dawn Collins of Westfield; nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father.
A gathering to celebrate Sue’s life will be held on a later date. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery, Potter Brook. Memorials may be made to Harrison Township Volunteer Fire Company, 112 E. Tannery St., Harrison Valley, PA 16927 or 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.
Kardinal Estate And Tag Sale Estate Sale In Port Allegany
3 Day Estate Sale! Port Allegany, PA
June 4, 5, 6 – Thursday & Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 4pm
312 Broad St. Port Allegany, PA (please do not block or park in driveways)
Fishing items, uranium glass, vintage pottery, tools, generator, Pyrex, decor, wood, lathe, Christmas trees, holiday decor, desks, stands, shelves, power tools, toys, games, outdoor furniture, children’s picnic table, swing, chairs, wheelbarrow, vintage glass, Anchor glass, Corning, kitchen items, beds, bedding, vintage transit, radios, TV, record player, clothes, crocs, glass banks, vacuum, ladders, and more. The 2 floor garage and 2 story home is loaded with items.

HIGH HONOR ROLL – OSWAYO VALLEY JR./SR. HS

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA. Mr. Erich Zaun, Principal, has announced that the following students, grades six through twelve, have been named to the Honor Roll for the fourth nine-week grading period at the Oswayo Valley Jr./Sr. High School. Students named to the High Honor Roll have maintained an average of 93% or above, while those on the Honor Roll have averaged 87% or above.
HIGH HONOR ROLL
GRADE 12: Lucas Dickerson, KayLynn George, Luke Karr, Kole Parrish, Rachel Rathbun, Mia Shaffer, Wynter Turek
GRADE 11: Ella Bee, Travis Coriaty, Payton Danforth, Elizabeth Freeman, Sage McCleaft, Aubrey Resig, Dana Williams, Jenna Wylie
GRADE 10: Evalyn Abdo, Amberdale Burks, Olivia Fetzer, Jessica Pitts, Ella Resig, Bowen Taylor, Reese Thompson
GRADE 9: Olivia Metcalf, Noah Robison, Camdyn Shaffer, Lane West
GRADE 8: Conor Clarke, Mackenna Evingham, Maddeline Kiendl
GRADE 7: Ayce Geiger, Hailey Payne, Lela Thompson
GRADE 6: Troy Allen, Eva Colbey, Adalynn Klein, Ariyanna Knowlton, Sara Taylor, Willow Vincent
HONOR ROLL
GRADE 12: Jude Colbey, Isaiah Goode, Ridge Mesler, Zachary Pitts, Grace Rositzke
GRADE 11: Lillian Knowlton-Mesler, Paige Siebert
GRADE 10: Callie Bachand, Colden Bryant, Kaitlynn Costello, Landon Enty, Makiah Jandrew, Alessia Norton, Rhylie Stannard, Ainsley Tabacheck, Layla Willow
GRADE 9: Remington Bachand, Joshua Hoffman, Alec Resig, Jordan Williams
GRADE 8: Jonathan Aumiller, Landon Austin, Mason Babcock, Eric Barnhart, Jolene Fisher, Miriam Hoffman, Malachi Shaffer, Sharlotte Tucker
GRADE 7: Amethyst Allen, Evelynne Knowlton, Alexis Taylor
GRADE 6: Brackson Bachand, Charlie Costello, Rilynn Drake, Nevaeh Duell, Kole Johnston, Lucas March, Levi Spiegel, Raegan Thompson
OSWAYO VALLEY JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL

The 119th commencement of the Oswayo Valley High School was held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the high school gymnasium. This year we were happy to graduate twenty-six seniors.
The presentation of medals was made by Superintendent, Mr. Glenn Smith, Jr. The Welcome Address was presented by Trevor Miller, the recipient of the Third Honors Award. He is the son of Kenneth and Kari Miller of Shinglehouse, PA. Mr. Miller will attend St. Bonaventure University and major in Biology.
The Commencement Address was given by Lucas Dickerson, class valedictorian, son of Dennis and Bethanie Dickerson of Shinglehouse, PA. Mr. Dickerson will attend the Rochester Institute of Technology and major in Game Design and Development.
Also giving a Commencement Address was class salutatorian, Mia Shaffer, daughter of Chad and Valerie Shaffer of Shinglehouse, PA. Miss Shaffer will attend Houghton University and major in Psychology.
Hamlin Memorial Library Is Seeking A Part-time Library Assistant

Hamlin Memorial Library is seeking a part-time Library Assistant. Candidates would be expected to engage in daily library operations, as well as assist with library programming, fundraising, and be willing to go the extra mile. We are seeking someone energetic and upbeat with good communication skills and a working knowledge of computers/technology. Criminal background clearances are a State requirement. Candidates must possess a willingness to work with the Director and Board to promote the library and its mission. Please send your resume to Hamlin Memorial Library, PO Box 422, Smethport, PA 16749. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.


















