HARRISBURG, Pa. (August 13) – On Thursday, August 13, 2026, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) announced a new, collaborative statewide public fishing and boating access strategy.
The strategy provides a clear blueprint for state agencies and their partner organizations to follow as they develop, plan, and enhance public access opportunities in their communities. Partners including heritage areas, watershed organizations, 501(c)3 nonprofit groups, local governments, and water trail managers, can use the tools available through this strategy by visiting the Pennsylvania Fishing and Boating Access Strategy page on the PFBC website (Fishandboat.com).
TOWANDA, Pa. (August 14) – On Thursday, August 13, 2026, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) Executive Director Tim Schaeffer, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Deputy Secretary Claire Jantz joined community partners to celebrate the opening of a new river access at the French Azilum historical site in Bradford County.
The river access, which features a concrete boat launch for unpowered boats, parking lot with ADA parking spaces and walkway, and restroom, and campsites, provides accessible public access to the Susquehanna River (North Branch).
“When communities with incredible natural resources such as the picturesque Susquehanna River embrace public access for fishing and boating along Pennsylvania’s waterways, the benefits are almost too many to count and stretch beyond the next bend in the river,” said Schaeffer. “Thank you to the leadership at French Azilum, our partners at DCNR, and others in the community who had a vision and worked hard to make it reality. Recreational amenities like this new boat launch and its accessible features make the river more relevant locally, attract new visitors, and create a deeper connection to resource stewardship.”
The PUC event connects front-line professionals with utility assistance programs, affordability resources, and tools to help Erie-area households maintain essential services
ERIE – Human service professionals helping Erie-area families navigate utility bills, affordability changes and available assistance are encouraged to register for the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s (PUC’s) free “Be Utility Wise” conference on September 17, 2026, at Erie’s Ambassador Conference Center.
For three decades, “Be Utility Wise” has been a cornerstone of the PUC’s consumer education efforts, bringing together front-line service providers, community advocates, utilities, regulators and other organizations to share information, strengthen connections and help Pennsylvania households access available assistance and maintain essential utility services.
“The people attending these conferences are often the first connections that families make when they are struggling with utility bills or trying to understand what assistance is available,” said PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank. “Be Utility Wise helps give those front-line professionals the information, resources and connections they need to respond eff…
The Coudersport Rotary Club welcomed Janet Smith, Vice President of the Susquehannock Trail Club, to its August 10, 2026, meeting at A&W West End Grill. Smith was accompanied by longtime Susquehannock Trail Club member Bill Boyd. The organization is celebrating its 60th anniversary of creating, maintaining and promoting the Susquehannock Trail System.
The Susquehannock Trail Club has strong ties to the Coudersport community. The organization was founded by William D. Fish Jr., publisher of the Potter Leader-Enterprise and son of William D. Fish, founder of the Coudersport Rotary Club.
“The firm updated the press release to include the reason for recall, illness information, and dates of distribution.”
Oma’s Pride of Avon, Connecticut, is voluntarily recalling one lot of Woof Complete Canine Chicken Recipe, 6 lb bag (Lot BB012729) because it is contaminated with Salmonella.
The recall was initiated after FDA received a consumer complaint and subsequently collected and analyzed a sample of the product, which tested positive for Salmonella. Oma’s Pride is continuing with their investigation to determine the source and root cause of the contamination. Three illnesses have been reported to date in association with the complaint.
Coudersport native Zach Dow has released “The POCO Pack” through Darkpines Music. You can find his tracks on multiple streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music.
The album may be especially interesting to those who remember growing up in Potter County. Dow hopes his listeners can imagine themselves sitting around a campfire hearing songs like “The Town Pool Incident of 92 or 93”, “I Remember Cherry Springs Before It Was Cool,” featuring Brothers Crickets, or “Ludwig Lane Crashouts,” to name a few. The tracks draw inspiration from people, places, and experiences in the POCO area that will feel familiar to local residents and those returning for its serene atmosphere and natural beauty.
Dow is a 2004 graduate of Coudersport Area High School. He spent much of his time growing up in Austin at his Grandfather’s home that backs to darkpines. His parents and extended family still live in the area, and Dow continues to return often to visit.
Music has always been a central part of Dow’s family life, from trumpet to drums to school band experiences, all of which helped shape his path into music education and his creative work. He went on to earn his degree from Bloomsburg University and now works as a music teacher.
BRADFORD, PA / OLEAN, NY – During the month of August, 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.
If you are scheduled for total joint replacement surgery, join our Total Joint Care Class. This class provides an overview of your procedure, the recovery process and the rehabilitation you will need. It is led by an experienced member of our outpatient rehabilitation team. This month, the class will be held on Wednesday, August 19, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the OGH Education Center on the first floor. To register, call (716) 375-7481.
ConnectLife will be hosting blood drives in both Bradford and Olean in August. The blood drive in Bradford will take place at Bradford Medical Park in the main lobby on Wednesday, August 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The blood drive in Olean will take place on Thursday, August 20 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the ConnectLife bus across from OGH. All donors receive a football t-shirt. Donors can pre-register by calling 716-529-4270 with sponsor codes 000468 for Bradford and 000485 for Olean. Donors can also register online at connectlifegive.org/donor. Walk-ins are also welcomed.
At BMP, individuals can connect with others dealing with a loss of a friend or loved one by attending the Grief Relief Support Group. Grief can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. The meeting is held in the Community Room inside the BMP Main Lobby. This compassionate and supportive group provides a place where you can share your journey with others who understand. The group will meet on Tuesday, August 25, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (814) 362-8288. No registration required. The meeting is free and open to the public.
For more details on these and other upcoming events, visit www.brmcogh.org/events.
The Anita Herbert, MD, Occupational Health Center team pose for a picture and are accepting new patients at Bradford Medical Park.
BRADFORD, PA — Bradford Medical Park continues to provide essential outpatient healthcare services to the community, the Anita Herbert, MD, Occupational Health Center remains a trusted resource for employers throughout Bradford and the surrounding region.
The Anita Herbert, MD, Occupational Health Center continues to serve employers throughout McKean County and the surrounding region by providing comprehensive occupational health services designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. From pre-employment physicals and drug screening to OSHA compliance, respiratory fit testing and employee wellness, the center helps organizations maintain a healthy workforce while meeting workplace safety requirements.
Thomas J. “Shaky” “Slick” Rieder, 74, of St. Marys, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at Penn Highlands Elk with his loving family by his side following a lengthy illness.
He was born on December 20, 1951 in St. Marys, PA, a son of the late Thomas Rieder, Sr. and Irene Wurm Rieder.
On July 7, 1973, he married the love of his life, Margaret Shoup, who preceded him in death in 2002. Together they shared more than 29 years of love and marriage.
Tom was a graduate of St. Marys High School, class of 1969 and was a member of Sacred Heart Church. Tom retired from DiNardo Paving after many years of service, but retirement certainly didn’t mean sitting still. For a number of years afterward, he could be found mowing grass at the cemetery, always keeping busy. Tom was a longtime member of the PFL, American Legion and the K of C, where many hours were spent there telling old stories, remembering the good old days, laughing with his buddies, and making a few new memories along the way.
Tom was truly a character who had an incredible memory, rarely forgot a face or a story, and was almost never seen without one of his signature bandannas. He loved listening to some old country, but could often be found sitting in his Jeep with AC/DC cranked up. He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, good friends, the outdoors, a good story, and doing things exactly the way he wanted to do them. He was blessed with many wonderful friendships throughout his life and is survived by numerous dear friends, including Dude Bauer, Mike Samick, Stan Meyer, and Todd and Kim Taylor. But of all the people and things Tom loved, nothing compared to his wife. She was, without question, the love of his life and held the biggest place in his heart. Tom leaves behind a family he dearly loved, plenty of stories, plenty of laughs, and the kind of memories his family and friends will still be talking about for years to come-probably with a little old country or AC/DC playing in the background.
He is survived by three children; Allison (Stephen “Haggar”) Auman of St. Marys, Wesley (Stephanie) Rieder, of Emporium, PA, and Russ Rieder of Tioga County; by his eight beloved grandchildren, one great-grandchild and was anticipating the birth of another great-grandson.
He is also survived by four siblings; Tim (Karen) Rieder of St. Marys, Ken Rieder of St. Marys, Mark (Tracy) Rieder of Emporium, and Paul (Stacy) Rieder of Colorado, as well as by numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and his wife, Tom was preceded in death by his sisters-in-law; Christine Rieder and Mary Beth Muhitch.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Thomas J. Rieder will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 12:00 PM at Sacred Heart Church, 337 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857.
Burial will follow in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.
There will be no public visitation.
Memorial Contributions may be made to a favorite charity.
Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com
PennDOT is now projecting the contractor will complete the pipe replacement in the middle of next week. The detour will remain in place until the work is complete. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank drivers for their patience while the work is completed.
On August 14th Blossburg Fire And Ambulance were dispatched to 1084 Noth Williamson Rd. for a two vehicle accident with possibly no injuries and the roadway 8s blocked
Our annual DRIVE-THROUGH Rabies Clinic will be Saturday, August 15th, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m
$5 per vaccine In our parking lot at the clinic (252 Route 6 W, Coudersport, PA 16915) All are welcome. All dogs, cats, and ferrets 12 weeks of age or older are required by law to be vaccinated against Rabies. The first vaccine is good for 1 year; subsequent vaccines are good for 3 years.
Marilyn J. HESS, 77, of Knoxville, PA, died Thursday, August 6, 2026 in her home. Born April 5, 1948, in Coudersport, she was the daughter of Walter R. and Helen Virginia Lewis Hess. On August 16, 2008, in Moore Hollow, Hector Township, she married Thomas R. Hunter, who predeceased her on June 29, 2014.
A 1966 graduate of Northern Potter High School, she owned and operated the Long Horn Restaurant in Westfield for seven years and Hess Floral Design in Westfield for eight years. She was employed as a truant officer at Cowanesque Valley Schools for nine years. Marilyn approached every task with focus and determination. She possessed a natural creativity and eye for beauty.
Surviving are: two children, Debora McCullen of Potter Brook and Barett VanSchaick of Lawrenceville; four grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; two sisters, Eva (David) Buckley of Ulysses and Linda Eick of Osceola; a brother, James (Kim) Abbey of Tunnelton, WV; nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by a son, Mark R. Fay; and a brother, Randy Abbey. Her friend and companion, Lloyd E. Abbey, died on August 3, 2026. A graveside service will be held 3:00 PM, Wednesday, August 19, 2026 in Riverview Cemetery, Potter Brook, PA. Rev. Timothy H. Miller will officiate. Memorials may be made to any animal care sanctuary or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Lloyd E. ABBEY, 79, of Knoxville, PA, formerly of Williamsport, died Monday, August 3, 2026 in UPMC Wellsboro. Born February 16, 1947, in Hornell, NY, he was the son of Garreth Winston Abbey and Elizabeth J. Costley Corbin.
He was a graduate of Petersburg High School, Petersburg, VA. A Vietnam War Veteran, he served honorably with the U.S. Air Force from 1965 – 1969. He earned an associate’s degree in tool and die making from Williamsport Area Community College in 1972. Lloyd was employed as a machinist for several years. His happiest vocation was owning and operating a road service company, Get ‘em Moving, in Michigan. An outdoorsman, Lloyd enjoyed camping and animals. He especially loved his dog, Rebel, who was always by his side.
Surviving are: two sons, Gene Abbey and Dustin Abbey; a daughter, Dana Abbey; ten grandchildren; two sisters, Ellen Kay (James) Wright and Deanna L. Barnhart; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Brenda Zehmer Abbey; and a brother, Garreth W. Abbey, Jr. His friend and companion with whom he resided, Marilyn Hess, died on August 6, 2026. A graveside service will be held 11:00 AM, Wednesday, August 19, 2026 in Riverview Cemetery, Potter Brook. Rev. Timothy H. Miller will officiate. Military Rites will be accorded by members of the Tioga County Honor Guard.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Job Summary We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Pre-K Counts Teacher/Lead Teacher to inspire young learners in a vibrant early childhood education environment. In this role, you will lead classroom activities, develop engaging curricula, and foster a nurturing space where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Your enthusiasm and expertise will help lay a strong foundation for future learning success, ensuring each child receives personalized attention and support. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on early childhood development while working within a collaborative team committed to excellence in preschool education.
Responsibilities
Design and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with early childhood education standards, including literacy, math, physical education, and social skills.
Foster a positive classroom atmosphere through effective classroom management and behavior management strategies that promote respect, cooperation, and curiosity.
Utilize curriculum development techniques to tailor activities for diverse learners, including children with special education needs or requiring early intervention services.
Engage children in hands-on learning experiences that support childhood development milestones and promote active exploration.
Maintain detailed documentation of each child’s progress, including assessments related to standardized testing and individualized learning plans.
Collaborate with families, specialists, and colleagues to support children’s welfare, growth, and educational goals.
Ensure a safe, clean, and welcoming environment that adheres to childcare regulations and always promotes child welfare.
Experience
Prior classroom experience working with preschool-aged children in early childhood education settings or daycare environments.
Demonstrated knowledge of curriculum development principles across subjects such as literacy education, math, physical education, and Montessori methods.
Experience working with children requiring special education or early intervention services is highly desirable.
Strong understanding of childhood development stages and effective classroom management techniques.
Proven ability to communicate clearly with children, parents, and team members to foster a collaborative educational environment.
Familiarity with standardized testing procedures relevant to preschool assessments is advantageous.
Previous experience in private school or daycare settings that emphasize early childhood education practices is preferred. Join us as we nurture the next generation of learners by creating engaging lessons and fostering an environment where every child can succeed!
Sweden Township will be doing Tar and Chipping on A-frame Road and Watson Road on Friday, August 14, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM. The Roads will be closed for a short period of time. We appreciate your patience during this time.
The Coudersport Area School District is seeking applicants for the position of Jr. High SoccerCoach effective immediately.
Interested applicants should send a letter of interest, resume, and current clearances to the Office of the Superintendent, CASD, 698 Dwight Street, Coudersport PA 16915 by close of business on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
We are looking for a reliable and organized person to join our team as a Legal Assistant in our real estate practice. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working with details, staying organized, and helping things run smoothly.
No prior legal experience? That’s okay. We are happy to train the right person who has a strong work ethic, good computer skills, and a positive attitude.
What You’ll Do:
Help organize and process documents for real estate files
Communicate with clients, lenders, realtors, and attorneys
Enter information into our system and keep records up to date
Assist with simple calculations (we’ll show you how)
Track the progress of files and help keep things on schedule
Help prepare documents for real estate closings
Keep your workspace and files organized
What We’re Looking For:
Someone dependable with a strong work ethic
Good attention to detail
Comfortable using a computer (Microsoft Office or similar)
Organized and able to manage multiple tasks
Friendly and professional communication skills
Basic math skills
Helpful but not required:
Office or clerical experience
Experience with real estate or legal work
Why This Role is a Great Fit:
On-the-job training provided
Supportive team environment
Opportunity to learn valuable legal and real estate skills
Ideal for someone looking to grow into a professional office role
Think you might be a good fit? We’d love to hear from you. Please email your resume to Finance@CahillyLaw.com
Smethport – Ted L. Mead, 65, of East Smethport, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday (August 12, 2026).
He was born February 24, 1961 in Newfane, NY, the son of Emmet and Janet (Lawton) Mead. On September 14, 2019, in Smethport, PA, he married Sharon J. Sigel, who survives.
Ted was a graduate of Port Allegany High School and then served in the U.S. Navy from 1979 to 1982.
Mr. Mead worked as a maintenance electrician at St. Gobain, now Ardagh Group of Port Allegany, PA, before retiring.
He was a member of the Smethport Fire Department and the McKean County Radio Club.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by:
his father: Emmet Mead of Turtlepoint, PA
three sons: Tom F. (Brooke) Grigsby of Shinglehouse, Bill J. (Brooke) Grigsby of Florida, and Zach E. Mead of Port Allegany
three grandchildren: Rhyleigh Mead, Connor Mead, Jade Grigsby
two brothers: Todd Mead of Port Allegany and Terry Mead of Smethport
and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews
Ted was preceded in death by his mother, Janet Mead.
There will be no visitation or services at this time. A celebration of Ted’s life will be held at a later date and time to be announced.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Smethport Fire Department. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.
WELLSBORO, PA—Jessica W. Zengerle, 41, of Wellsboro, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, in Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre.
Born on Thursday, June 20, 1985 in Dansville, NY, she was a daughter of Bradley A. and Dixie Griffith West. On November 11, 2017 in Gaines, she married Chad M. Zengerle, who survives.
Jessica was a graduate of Avoca Central School in Avoca, NY. She graduated from SUNY at Buffalo with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. She later earned her Master’s Degree from Chamberlain University becoming a Nurse Practitioner. She also had a certificate in Clinical Herbalism. She started her career at the Guthrie Clinic and later was employed by UPMC Laurel Health. She transitioned from the medical field to holistic practices and had also worked in the family business, Crooked Creek Campground in Gaines. Jessica also ran the wedding venue at Creekside Barn on Pine Creek. She was a yoga instructor.
She loved gardening, painting, and singing. She loved spending time in nature and taking care of her animals. She loved her dogs, but most especially loved her family. She was known to sneak healthy food into her family’s diet unbeknownst to them!
Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Chad; her parents, Brad and Dixie West of Westfield; a daughter, Sienna W. Zengerle; two sons, Noah and Eli Zengerle; four siblings, Brandon (Erika) West of Wellsboro, Casey Hall of Big Flats, NY, Jennifer (Bryan Simmons) of Rochester, NY, and Christopher (Richele) Hall of Blossburg; her grandmother, Ethel Griffith of Florida; her mother-in-law, Rose Foust of Coudersport; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Jessica was predeceased by a brother, Justin T. West; her paternal grandparents, Burdett and Beatrice West; and her grandfather, Fred Griffith.
Family and friends may gather from 12 noon to 2pm on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, PA, where funeral services will follow at 2pm with Pastor Roger N. Hain of Olean, officiating. Burial will be in Pauline M. West Cemetery, Millport, PA.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jessica’s name may be made to Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Jessica’s family has entrusted her care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Jessica, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Facebook page.
We will be in the Warren and Kane area this Saturday. We will have the Backpack truck at the locations noted during the times you see, and no longer. If you are not able to make it, please send a family member or friend to pick up your backpacks.
Carl Wayne NILES, 75, of Smethport, PA, died Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at his home, leaving behind a life that was anything but ordinary.
Carl lived life on his terms. He was independent, determined, fiercely loyal, occasionally stubborn (although he would probably argue that point), and never one to let someone else tell him how he should do things. Thirty-one years ago, Carl was given six months to live. Apparently, Carl had other plans. Six months turned into 31 years—and he made sure to fill every one of them with family, friends, hunting, farming, motorcycles, laughter, and plenty of stories.
Born November 21, 1950, in Port Allegany, he was the son of Clarence Robert “Bob” and Dorothy Hobbs Niles. A 1968 graduate of Port Allegany High School, Carl went on to serve honorably in the U.S. Army from 1970–1972 during the Vietnam War.
On June 13, 1971, in Port Allegany, Carl married his high school sweetheart, Betty A. Manning, and apparently she decided he was worth keeping around. She survives him. Their marriage lasted 56 years and produced two outstanding children, countless memories, and more than a few adventures along the way.
Carl worked for St. Gobain in Port Allegany and served for several years as the union vice president. He was a proud member of Liberty Lodge #505, F&AM in Port Allegany; Zem Zem Shrine Club; McKean County Roadrunners; and John Berg Memorial American Legion Post #976 in Crosby.
He was also a founding member of the Rampagin’ Piglets motorcycle gang—a title that probably explains a great deal about the Wild Man without requiring any further explanation.
Carl was an outdoorsman through and through. He was an avid hunter, a hobby farmer, and the kind of man who was happiest when he was outside, working with his hands, riding, hunting, or simply enjoying the land around him. He loved nature and believed that hunting was about much more than the hunt itself. He taught his children and grandchildren to appreciate, respect, and care for the outdoors.
He also had a passion for guiding young people and generously volunteered his time most recently as a coach for the Smethport Trap Team. He loved watching kids learn, improve, and discover the same appreciation for the outdoors that had been such an important part of his own life.
But above all else, Carl was a family man. His greatest pride was his family, and he was never shy about letting people know just how proud he was of them.
He leaves behind his wife and lifelong partner, Betty; their two amazing children, Theresa Harris of Smethport and Matthew (Rich Neefe) Niles of Cincinnati, OH; and his two spectacular grandchildren, Bennett and Casey, who were the recipients of his love, wisdom, stories, and probably a few lessons they weren’t quite ready for yet. (“Don’t tell grandma”).
He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth Niles of Port Allegany; his sister, Nancy (Randy) Andreano of Port Allegany; and several nieces and nephews.
Carl was predeceased by his brother, Mark Niles; and his sisters, Rita Niles Brewer and Darlene F. Lathrop.
Carl leaves behind a lot of things: a family who adored him, friends who will never forget him, stories that will undoubtedly get better with every retelling, and enough memories to keep everyone laughing—and occasionally shaking their heads—for years to come.
He never accepted the idea that his life should be dictated by a rare heart condition, a calendar, or anyone else’s expectations. Carl simply kept going. He hunted, farmed, rode, worked, coached, and lived life according to his own rules.
And if Carl had anything to say about it, he would probably tell us not to make too big a fuss. “Bye”.
Friends may call at Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Switzer Chapel, 77 Willow Street, Port Allegany, on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM, with Funeral Services following at 1:00 PM. Rev. Max Simms will officiate. Military Rites will be accorded in the funeral home at the beginning of the funeral by members of the Port Allegany Honor Guard. A Masonic service will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday in the funeral home. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Port Allegany.
Memorials may be made to Port Area Ambulance Service or the Smethport Trap Team.
