STAKEHOLDER ANNOUNCEMENT
USDA Accepts Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Applications to Improve Access to Remote Education and Health Care in Rural Communities
(Washington, D.C., May 5, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development invites grant applications to improve access to remote education and health care in rural communities.
USDA is making approximately $27 million in funding available under the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grant Program.
This program funds distance learning and telemedicine equipment, including audio and video equipment, to improve access to educational and health care opportunities in rural communities. These funds will help digitally connect people to education, training and healthcare resources that are otherwise unavailable or limited in remote parts of the country.
For example, DLT funding expands opportunities for:
- Students to participate in classes that may be in locations too far to access in person;
- Teachers to provide their expertise, trainings and educational services to students across the country; and
- Patients to seek specialized care and treatment from medical professionals without needing to leave their homes or
Eligible applicants include state and local governmental entities, federally recognized Tribes, nonprofits and for-profit businesses.
Applications must be submitted electronically through grants.gov no later than June 30, 2026. Additional program information is available on the DLT Program website. Interested applicants are encourage to contact their Telecom Program General Field Representative (GFR) and may submit questions using the Contact Us Form.
Read the full Stakeholder Announcement here.
FREE GOLDEN AFTERNOONS PROGRAM TO FEATURE RAY CORSE THIS COMING TUESDAY, MAY 12
The Deane Center’s free Golden Afternoons program for men and women ages 65 and older will feature Ray Corse of Sullivan Township playing his accordion this coming Tuesday, May 12, at 1 p.m. in the lobby at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro. Corse has been playing the accordion and singing since he was five years old.
Free light refreshments will be provided.
Corse plays 1900 to 1970s music, including polkas, country, and rock n’ roll songs such as “The House of the Rising Sun,” “Proud Mary,” “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You,” “Tear In My Beer,” “Love Letters in the Sand,” “Crazy,” and “Grandma’s Feather Bed,” a tune released by John Denver in 1974.
He will also perform some songs from the 1800s, like “When You and I Were Young Maggie.”
Corse also takes requests. “If I can whistle or hum a tune, I can usually play it. Everything I play is by ear,” he said.
Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP on the Deane Center’s website at deanecenter.com. For more information about Golden Afternoons, call the Deane Center at 570-724-6220.
William J. Troutman, 62, Of Bradford
William J. Troutman, 62, of Bushnell Street, Bradford, passed away Friday, May 1, 2026 at his residence.
Born on June 14, 1963, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Brooks Troutman and Rebecca Keys-Foster. He was a 1981 graduate from Bradford High School.
After graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy on May 10, 1982. During his service he earned Service Deployment Ribbon, and a Good Conduct Medal, before being honorably discharged on May 9, 1988.
Bill was employed as a printer at the Bradford Era, he then started employment at USA Trucking as a truck driver.
He enjoyed riding motorcycles throughout his life.
Surviving is his half brother, Charlie (Molly) Isaman, of Bradford, step-sister, Angela (Brent) Foster-Burgess, Huntington, WV, three step brothers, Matt Byerly, of Wilston, ND, Michael Byerly, of Wilston, ND, Mark Byerly, of Bradford, and several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to attend graveside services at 1:00 pm on Friday May 8, 2026, at McKean Memorial Park Cemetery. Rev. Max Simms Pastor of the Hilltop Baptist Church, followed by Military Honors by the United States Navy and the Honor Guard of the Bradford American Legion Post 108.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donors choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
Joseph Aloysius Cirko
Joseph Aloysius Cirko, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather
Emporium- Joseph Aloysius Cirko passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at UPMC Mercy in Pittsburgh, after a short illness.
Joe was born at home in Warrior Run, PA, on September 12, 1941, the son of the late Michael and Anna Carey Cirko. On May 29, 1999, in the First Baptist Church in Emporium, he married his loving wife, the former Dawn S. Hickey, who survives.
Attending school only through the 8th grade, Joe didn’t have the privilege of graduating due to responsibilities that needed to be taken on at an early age. A truck driver for over 60 years, Joe knew the roads and highways across the states. He loved the freedom of the road and the scenic views on his travels. Joe also loved the outdoors, especially fishing with his loving wife, Dawn. He and Dawn shared a loving devotion to their pets.
Joe is survived by and lovingly remembered by his loving wife, Dawn; his daughter, Cindy (Dennis) Peterson of NY, and his son, Joseph D. Cirko of PA; his grandchildren, Brandi Ferris and Nicholas (Alexa) Peterson, both of NY, Carlee Crain and Kori Noel Cirko, both of PA; his great-grandchildren, Kaeden Peterson and Jaxon Peterson, both of NY; and a brother, Alan W. Cirko of PA.
He was predeceased by his parents, Michael and Anna, two sisters, and three brothers.
Per Joe’s wishes, no services are planned.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to Cameron County SPCA, 678 South Mountain Rd., Emporium, PA15834
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St., Olean.
Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.
Local Educator Honored as PARSS Elementary Teacher of the Year
The Cameron County School District proudly recognizes Mrs. Julie Shaffer for her outstanding achievement as the Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARSS) Elementary Teacher of the Year.
Mrs. Julie Shaffer has been a teacher at Cameron County School District for the last 31 years. She spent 2 years in 3rd Grade before moving to 5th and 6th grade where she currently serves as the ELA teacher. On Thursday, April 30th, 2026 Mrs. Julie Shaffer was invited to attend the PARSS conference in State College, Pennsylvania to accept the distinguished award.
Selected from a competitive pool of 39 candidates across the state, Mrs. Shaffer’s recognition highlights her exceptional dedication to her students, her school community, and the field of education. Mrs. Shaffer creates a nurturing and engaging classroom environment where all students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Her commitment to meeting the diverse needs of her learners, along with her passion for fostering a love of learning, has made a lasting impact on countless students and families.
Colleagues recognize Mrs. Shaffer as a compassionate educator, innovative instructional leader, and tireless advocate for her students. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure student success, both inside and outside of the classroom, and serves as a role model for fellow educators.
This prestigious honor not only reflects Mrs. Shaffer’s individual excellence, but also brings pride to the entire Cameron County School District and its commitment to high-quality education in rural communities.The district extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mrs. Shaffer on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for the positive difference she makes every day.
Reminder – Volunteers Needed For Planting For Wildlife On Saturday, May 9, At Tionesta Lake
Tionesta, Pa.: A reminder from Garrett Baker, Upland Bird Hunt Chapter Habitat Coordinator, that we could use a few more volunteers for planting shrubs for wildlife on Saturday, May 9, at Tionesta Lake. Volunteers should meet at 1:00 p.m. at Tionesta Lake, in Forest County, and the work should be completed by 4:00 p.m.
The meeting spot will be the parking lot of the Mt. Zion Lutheran Church at 2048 German Hill Road, Tionesta, 16353. We will caravan to the parking site from the parking lot. Park staff and RGS Volunteers will be available to answer any questions.
You do not need to be member of the Ruffed Grouse Society to help – anybody interested in wildlife is welcome!
Donald E. BAILEY, Jr., 66, of Sabinsville, PA
Donald E. BAILEY, Jr., 66, of Sabinsville, PA, died Thursday, April 30, 2026 in his home. Born October 22, 1959, in Renovo, he was the son of Donald E. and Carol Gilroy Bailey.
A graduate of Bucktail High School in Renovo, he earned an associate’s degree in mathematics from Mansfield University. He was married to Susan Foster Bailey, who survives. He was employed as an electrician by several area manufacturing companies. Donnie was a member of Kamp Kant Hitem for 40 years. An outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing at Black Lake, NY and hunting with his sons. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren, his labs, and rock-n-roll music.
Surviving besides his wife of 43 years, Susan, are: four children, Carrie (Jason) English of Wellsboro, Donald (Megan) Bailey, III of Wellsboro, Benjamin Bailey of Westfield, Alexander Bailey of Germania; adopted son, Duane McCullough of Germania; 14 grandchildren; three siblings, Michael (Lori Ann) Bailey of Florida, Thomas Bailey of West Virginia, and Cathy Noble of Tampa, FL; aunts, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; and a sister, Debra Bauer.
A gathering to celebrate Donnie’s life will be held on a later date. Burial will be in Parker Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Kettle Creek Hose Company. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Multi-generational Estate Sale
May 8th and 9th
9am-5 pm
104 Oak Lane, Coudersport, PA
Large estate sale featuring many vintage items, large collections of crystal figurines, pigs, piggy banks, cast iron collectibles, depression and uranium glass, tools, motorcycle, vintage and other books, furniture, tiles of various sizes, baskets, vintage cabinets and furniture, vintage movie projector and electronics, Hershey items/memorabilia and vintage Hershey Letterpress printing blocks, postcards, power scooters and medical supplies, vintage toys, M&M memorabilia, Tiffany-style lamps and lights and much, much more. Everything must go. Cash only.
We are not responsible for accidents, please WATCH YOUR STEP at sale.
a2 Platinum USA Label Infant Formula Recalled Because Of Possible Health Risk
Boulder, CO – May 2, 2026 – The a2 Milk Company (“a2MC”) has voluntarily recalled three specific batches of its imported a2 Platinum Premium USA label infant formula 0-12 months (“Product”) due to the presence of cereulide. The Product is sold only in the United States.
Cereulide is a heat-stable toxin produced by some strains of the bacterium Bacillus cereus. Illness occurs through the consumption of food contaminated with the toxin and preparing formula with hot water does not eliminate it.
Symptoms typically develop within 30 minutes to six hours of ingestion and most often involve gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting that typically self-resolve within 24 hours. Infants are at greater risk due to their developing immune systems and can experience complications such as dehydration which require medical care.
Product Information
| Product Name | Packaging Format | Batch Number | Use By Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| a2 Platinium Premium infant formula 0-12 months Milk-based powder with Iron | 31.7oz tin | 2210269454 | 7/15/2026 |
| 31.7oz tin | 2210324609 | 1/21/2027 | |
| 31.7oz tin | 2210321712 | 1/15/2027 |
The batch number and “Use By” (expiration) date are found on the bottom of each tin (refer to example below, together with image of product).
The Product was distributed nationally through a2MC’s website, Amazon and Meijer stores as part of Operation Fly Formula. Importation rights expired on December 31st, 2025, and the Product has been discontinued and removed from sale prior to the initiation of the recall. The total number of units in the three batches is 63,078 of which an estimated 16,428 units were sold to consumers.
Although no confirmed incidents of illness or harm have been reported, affected batches must not be used.
Alan “Al” Dickerson, 63, Of Pittsburgh
Alan “Al” Dickerson, 63, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, passed away on February 11, 2026, from complications of a lengthy illness.
Alan was born in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, to the late Orin and Louella (Geer) Dickerson. After graduating high school, he attended a technical school to study journalism, beginning a lifelong appreciation for photography and antiques.
Alan was a creative thinker and an excellent problem solver. He was a loving and devoted husband whose kindness, patience, and unconditional love touched everyone who knew him. He shared over ten loving years of marriage with his wife, Melody Nowak-Dickerson, treating her like a queen and being treated like a king that built a life filled with love, respect, and companionship.
The League of Women Voters Of Cattaraugus And Allegany Counties Is Hosting An evening With Marti Tillinger
” The League of Women Voters of Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties is hosting an evening with Marti Tillinger, presenting The Pollinators. Join us to find out more about bee and butterfly gardens just in time for spring planting!
The event is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 5:30 pm at Christ United Methodist Church, 633 Linwood Avenue, Olean. Light refreshments will be served and all are welcome with no prior registration required.
The League is part of the larger NYS and National organization, representing trusted leadership since 1919 in NYS. We are a community of people of all ages, ethnicities and political affiliations providing non partisan information to allow citizens to vote on a variety of issues in an educated manner.
For more information, please visit cattaragusulwv@gmail.com “
McKean And Cameron County Gathered On Thursday, April 30th To Test Their Environmental Knowledge And Skills
Envirothon, The Bradford Bees. L-R,
Jan Russell (Team Advisor), Cecily Bell
(Team Captain), Emmy Kemick, Jake
Whitlow, Joe Bukowski, and Autumn
Newmann.
High school students from across McKean and Cameron County gathered on Thursday, April 30th to test their environmental knowledge and skills at the annual McKean County Conservation District Envirothon, also known locally as the “Wild” Envirothon at the McKean County Fair Grounds in Smethport PA. Over 100 students participated in the event from both Cameron and McKean Counties. That group included students from Cameron County High School, Bradford Area High School, Kane Area High School, Otto-Eldred High School, Port Allegany High School, and Smethport Area High School. “It’s encouraging to see so many young people interested in conservation and natural resource management,” said McKean County Conservation District Manager, Sandy Thompson.
PITT-BRADFORD GRADUATES HEADED TO MEDICAL SCHOOL, GRADUATE SCHOOL, WORK
BRADFORD, Pa. – As they walked across the stage at Commencement Sunday afternoon, many members of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Class of 2026 had already secured jobs or graduate school placements.
The graduates hailed from 13 states and one U.S. territory. While some were headed directly into the workforce, others will pursue graduate degrees at schools that include the University of Pittsburgh, Penn State and Michigan State University.
Marvellous Agbanusi, a biology major from Bradford, is one of two graduates headed to medical school. She will study at the American Canadian School of Medicine in Dominica, an island nation in the Caribbean. Cody Sturgeon, a biology major from Jackson Center, will attend medical school at Lake Erie College of Medicine in Erie.
PennDOT Potter County Maintenance Work Schedule for the Week of May 4
Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced the following schedule of maintenance activities in Potter County the week of May 4. 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:
Bridge Maintenance & Cleaning
- All state-owned along Route 49. Monday, May 4, through Friday, May 8. 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 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.
Michael Christoff, 64, of 32 North Pearl Street, Albion, PA
Michael Christoff, 64, of 32 North Pearl Street, Albion, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a courageous battle with MS Friday, May 1, 2026 at UPMC Hamot.
He was born August 11, 1961, in St. Marys, son of the late James Vincent “GG” and Dorothy E. Vollmer Christoff. Michael was a graduate of Elk County Christian High School.
Michael is survived by his sister, Connie Garrison and her husband, John of Erie and his brother, James Christoff and his wife, Diane of Charleston, SC. Also surviving are three nieces: Emily (Christoff) House and her husband Rick, Michelle Garrison, and Stephanie (Garrison) Shreve and her husband Matthew; five nephews: Joshua, Sean, Morgan, and James Garrison and Broderick Christoff and his wife, Amber.
He loved motor vehicles of any kind and was employed as a certified mechanic. Michael found peace in nature. He enjoyed hiking, fishing, hunting as well as riding his dirtbike in the woods. Services will be held privately by Michael’s family and burial will be in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to the Erie City Mission, 1017 French Street, Erie, PA 16512 or National MS Society, PO Box 91891, Washington D.C., 20090-1891.Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. Online condolences may be offered at www.lynch-radkowski.com
Project Healing Waters 17th Annual Fly Fishing Event
Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing {PHWFF}, initiated and conducted by members of the Federation of Fly Fishers and Trout Unlimited, serves military personnel who have been wounded, injured, or disabled to aid their physical and emotional recovery by introducing or rebuilding the skills of fly fishing and fly tying and by using and enjoying these skills on fishing outings and as lifelong recreation.
While initially focusing on the military personnel in the Washington, DC area, the Project has expanded nationwide and is offering its services and program to active military personnel and veterans in the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals throughout the country.
The Project’s program provides basic fly fishing, fly casting and fly tying classes and clinics for the wounded and injured personnel ranging from beginners to those with prior fly fishing and tying experience who are adapting their skills to their new abilities. All activities, services and equipment are provided to the participants at no cost.
The God’s Country Chapter of Trout Unlimited will host its 17th nationally recognized Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing event, in cooperation with the Moore’s Run Fish and Game Preserve, Tuesday May 19 through Friday May 23. We are proud to dedicate our 2026 event to honor all “Bronze Star” Recipients. Our 12 disabled veteran guests all receive medical treatment and rehabilitaion at various PA Veteran Hospitals and sign up for our event through their respective PHWFF Programs. We are proud to enable them to enjoy the great trout flyfishing and an overall quality experience our chapter provides.”
We are working with the local American Legions and VFWs to invite all local veterans to participate in our disabled veteran guests’ 40 mile motorcycle escort/parade through Potter County. While our chapter has enough volunteer members to provide the instruction, equipment and guide services for our 12 disabled veteran guests, we are soliciting donations to offset the cost of food, lodging, fly tying tools and materials. A quote from a previous guest best explains what his visit meant:
“The trip was overwhelming!! I couldn’t believe all the people out there with signs and flags. It was really, really emotional, and they don’t know how much we appreciated that. When I returned from Vietnam 49 years ago, they didn’t do anything for us, not even in my hometown.”
Please join in the enthusiasm we feel and help provide a unique outdoor and healing experience for our wounded war veterans in the peaceful setting of God’s Country. If you consider this event worthy of your support, please forward your tax deductible contribution to the God’s Country Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Box 702, Coudersport, Pa. 16915. Thank you in advance for your consideration and continued support.
2026 McKean County Conservation District Legislative
On Friday May 1st, The McKean County Conservation District recently hosted its annual Legislative Luncheon, bringing together local, state, and federal representatives with conservation partners, agricultural leaders, and community stakeholders to discuss key natural resource priorities and initiatives.
The luncheon provided an opportunity for open dialogue on conservation efforts across McKean County, including soil and water conservation programs, watershed protection, agricultural best management practices, and environmental education initiatives. The event briefly highlighted previous accomplishes but mostly focused on 2026 goals and projects bringing to light the need for a funding increase across the board for County Conservation Districts.
Helen M. Uhl, 85, of Uhl Road, Kersey
Helen M. Uhl, 85, of Uhl Road, Kersey, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Penn Highlands Dubois, following a lengthy illness.
She was born August 20, 1940, in Walkersville, WV, a daughter of the late George Smith and Ella Jeffries Jewart.
Helen was a graduate of Walkersville High School. She dedicated 30 years of hard work and commitment to St. Mary’s Carbon before retiring. She found joy in the simple, meaningful rhythms of everyday life-keeping a tidy home, tending to her yard with care, and losing herself in the pages of a good book. Whether she was creating a warm, welcoming space for others or enjoying life’s quiet moments, she brought quiet dedication and pride to all she did. Her gentle presence, steady kindness, and love for life’s small pleasures left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.
She is survived by two children; RJ Uhl, of Kersey, and Robin (Russ) Walter, of Butler, and by five grandchildren; Jonathan, Josh, Jarret (Stacey), Abby and Breanna, and by seven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters; Pam and Wanda, and by a daughter in-law; Tanya (Scott) Bauer.
In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by a brother; James Smith, one sister in infancy, and by her granddaughter; Ashley Krystek.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Helen M. Uhl will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 2:00 PM at St. Boniface Church, 355 Main Street, Kersey, PA, 15846 with Fr. Thomas Curry, OSB, officiating.
Burial will follow at the St. Boniface Cemetery.
Family and Friends will be received at the St. Boniface Church, Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 1:15 PM until the time of service.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Special Olympics.
Krise Family Funeral Homes, 339 Main Street, Kersey, PA 15846 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com
Harry Benjamin Nelson, 79, of Bradford, formerly of Sevierville TN and Cross Junction VA
Harry Benjamin Nelson, 79, of Bradford, formerly of Sevierville TN and Cross Junction VA, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026.
Harry was born in Wellsboro, PA, on June 5, 1946, he was a son of the late Dorothy Ellen (Covur) and Clarence Edward Nelson, Sr. Harry was a 1965 graduate of East Fairmont High School and later attended Fairmont State College both in Fairmont WV.
In May of 1968 he joined the United States Air Force. He served as a Ground Radio Communication Equipment Repairman at Ellsworth AFB in SD.
On June 10, 1982, in Lineville AL, he married Dianne Marie (Harris) Nelson, who preceded him in death on April 21, 2025.
Before and after the service he worked AT&T, Northern Telephone and Telegraph, and he retired from WilTel Corporation in Virginia.
Harry was active in Boy Scouts first as a member and later a volunteer. He enjoyed woodworking, electronics, and the many dogs and cats he and his wife had over the years. He and Dianne traveled extensively, often attending countryside farm auctions in rural communities.
Surviving are two sisters, Debbie (Chuck) Smith, of Martinsburg WV, and Pam (Marvin) Miller, of Fairmont WV, one brother, Rev. Rick (Barb) Nelson, of Bradford, and four nieces, Altaira Nelson, Crystal (Abraham) Heise, Beth (Chadwick) Alt, and April Nelson, three nephews, Jody (Alicia) Nelson, Bryan Nelson, and James Nelson, and several grand nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Dianne, of 43 years, and three brothers, Clarence E. Nelson Jr., David Nelson, and Dale Nelson.
Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service on Monday June 1, 2026, at 11 am in Oak Grove Methodist Cemetery in Lineville, AL. with Rev. Rick Nelson, his brother officiating, followed by Military Honors by members of the United States Air Force. Burial will follow.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Humane Society or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences for his family may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com