DISTRICT ATTORNEY FILES NOTICE FOR DEATH PENALTY AGAINST PRESCOTT
The McKean County District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer has filed a legal notice that the District Attorney’s Office will seek the death penalty against Tyler PRESCOTT. PRESCOTT is charged with Criminal Homicide, Rape of a Child, and other charges in the death of his minor child in August.
The document advises the defendant that the Commonwealth is seeking a sentence of death if he is convicted of Homicide by 1st degree Murder.
Pennsylvania law identifies 18 factors that support a sentence of death if an offender is convicted of Murder in the 1st degree (premeditated/intentional killing). The only other possible sentence other than death for an offender convicted of Murder 1st is life in prison. Murder 1st is the only crime for which death is a possible sentence in Pennsylvania.
The Commonwealth lists the following factors from the statute that it will submit for sentencing upon a conviction for murder 1st in the case: (1) The victim was a child under 12 years of age; (2) the killing occurred while the defendant was in the perpetration of a felony; (3) the death was committed by means of torture; and (4) the killing occurred while the defendant was committing a felony under The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act.
LAKE EFFECT SNOW WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM THURSDAY TO 1 AM EST SATURDAY
… * WHAT…Heavy lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 6 and 12 inches with locally higher amounts possible. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph.
* WHERE…McKean and Warren Counties.
* WHEN…From 1 AM Thursday to 1 AM EST Saturday.
* IMPACTS…Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday morning and evening commutes.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS… If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
Lake Effect Snow Warning issued November 25 at 12:44PM EST until November 29 at 1:00AM EST
DESCRIPTION: * WHAT…Heavy lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations
12 to 20 inches in the most persistent lake snows. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph will produce blowing and drifting snow.
* WHERE…Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie
Counties.
* WHEN…From 1 AM Thursday to 1 AM EST Saturday
IMPACTS…Travel will be very difficult with deep snow cover on roads and poor visibility. The hazardous conditions will impact Thanksgiving holiday travel. Gusty winds will down tree branches and cause isolated power outages.
INSTRUCTIONS: Heavy snow will fall in relatively narrow bands. If traveling, be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibilities.
Dave K. Lush, of Coudersport
Dave K. Lush, of Coudersport, died at his home on November 21, 2025, with his wife holding him, family and the Hospice Chaplin praying over him. He was born on November 15, 1958, the son of the late Frank Lush and Inez Lush, who survives.
Dave graduated from Galeton High School, Class of 1977, and received his BS in science from Allegheny College in 1981. Dave was also a graduate of the Dale Carnegie School for Public Speaking.
Dave married his beloved wife, Sue, on August 24, 1991.
PUC Announces Publication of Tentative Order on Model Tariff for Large-Load Customers
30-day public comment period now open through December 22, 2025
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today announced that its Tentative Order proposing a model tariff for Large-Load Customers — including data centers and other high-demand electric users — has been published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, officially starting a 30-day public comment period that runs through December 22, 2025.
The Tentative Order was adopted by the Commission on November 6, 2025, and represents the next step in the PUC’s ongoing effort to address the unprecedented growth of very large loads across Pennsylvania. The proposal outlines a statewide framework to help ensure that large energy users can connect to the grid quickly and responsibly, while also protecting existing ratepayers, preventing cost-shifts, and supporting long-term reliability.
About the Tentative Order
PUC Alerts Consumers of December 1 Electric Price Changes
Encourages All Customers — Especially At-Risk Households — to Contact Utilities Early and Explore Affordability Options Before Winter Bills Rise
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is alerting consumers that energy supply prices for all PUC regulated electric utilities will adjust on December 1. These seasonal changes matter: during the winter heating months, the cost of electricity can account for more than half of a typical customer bill.
The PUC urges consumers who are worried about winter heating bills to act early and Call Utilities Now to discuss affordability options and assistance programs that will help them to stay connected.
Why December 1 Price Changes Matter – Understanding Your Bill
Elwood “Corky” Reynolds, of Warren PA
Elwood R. ‘Corky” Reynolds
Elwood “Corky” Reynolds, of Warren PA, passed away on November 21st 2025, at 72 years old, in his home. His passage was in accordance with his wishes, at home in the caring company of loved ones, and in peace.
Corky was uniquely respected, appreciated, and adored by all who knew him. He was generous beyond words, brave, and a devoted father and family member who led his life in alignment with his clear and unwavering values. His thoughtful and caring nature was contagious, and inspired all those who had the unique privilege of knowing him.
Leonard J. Imperial III, 72, of Warren, PA
Leonard J. Imperial III, 72, of Warren, PA, passed away peacefully early Saturday morning, November 22, 2025, at home with his family after a battle with cancer.
He was born in Warren, PA, on November 4, 1953, the son of the late Leonard Jr, and Marcia (Holst) Imperial. Lenny was a lifelong resident of Warren and graduated from the Warren Area High School. After high school he served with the United States Marine Corp. from 1971-1975, serving during the Vietnam War. After his service he worked and retired from United Refining Co. after 37 years of employment.
Lennie had a love for being outdoors, he loved animals and was a very hard worker and would do anything for anyone. He was a man with a true ‘heart of gold’.
Seneca Highlands IU9 Is Seeking A Full-time IT Support Technician in the Port Allegany School District
Available Position: Full-time IT Support Technician in the Port Allegany School District
Overview:
Seneca Highlands IU9 is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic IT Support Technician to join our team supporting Port Allegany School District. This position offers an excellent opportunity to start a rewarding career in technology within an educational environment.
Job Title: IT Support Technician
Location: Port Allegany, PA
Type: Full-time
New clearances upon hire and Pre-employment drug testing will be required for successful employment.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide first-level technical support for devices, networks, apps, and classroom technology.
Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and network issues.
Assist in maintaining and updating IT documentation and inventory.
Ensure excellent customer service by being courteous, polite, and service-oriented.
Collaborate with other team members to enhance overall IT support.
Qualifications:
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
A positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
Basic troubleshooting skills for devices, networks, and classroom technology, or the ability to learn these skills quickly.
Any questions regarding this position, please email Mr. Ed Bell at: ebell@iu9.org EOE
Pike Township Special Meeting November 25th
The Pike Township Board of Supervisors will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 79 Germania Street, Ramp Entrance, Galeton, PA 16922. The Special meeting will be called to order at 4pm to discuss regular business items pertaining to end of year fiscal year closeout and consideration of appointed Secretarial positions.
Hazel L. Shugars, 73, Of, Rew, PA
Hazel L. Shugars, 73, a loving wife, mother and grandmother, of Rew, passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Olean General Hospital.
Hazel was born in Westline, on August 14, 1952, she was a daughter of the late James J. and Betty (Colvin) Shay. She attended M.J. Ryan Elementary School, and graduated from Bradford High School.
She was united in marriage to Robert L. Shugars on August 28, 1969, in Olean, NY, with Rev. Fred Moore officiating.
M. Karen Dougherty, 76, of 4486 Rehler Road, Allegany, NY
M. Karen Dougherty, 76, of 4486 Rehler Road, Allegany, NY passed away with her husband by her side, Saturday, November 22, 2025, at The Pines of Olean NY.
Born May 19, 1949, in Franklin, she was a daughter of the late Dr. Eugene R. and Jennie L. (Larson) Kalb.
Karen was a 1967 graduate of Bradford High School. In 1969 she graduated from the Program Systems Institute, with a degree in Data Processing and Computer Programming.
On March 19, 1970, in St. Bernard Church she married James J. Dougherty, who survives.
Mary Lou Ross, 97, of Lewis Run, PA
Mary Lou Ross, 97, of Lewis Run, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
Seneca Highlands IU9 Is Seeking Full-Time Postion In Port Allegany
Available Position: Full-time IT Support Technician in the Port Allegany School District
Overview:
Seneca Highlands IU9 is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic IT Support Technician to join our team
supporting Port Allegany School District. This position offers an excellent opportunity to start a
rewarding career in technology within an educational environment.
Job Title: IT Support Technician
Location: Port Allegany, PA
Type: Full-time
New clearances upon hire and Pre-employment drug testing will be required for successful employment.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide first-level technical support for devices, networks, apps, and classroom technology.
Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and network issues.
Assist in maintaining and updating IT documentation and inventory.
Ensure excellent customer service by being courteous, polite, and service-oriented.
Collaborate with other team members to enhance overall IT support.
Qualifications:
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
A positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
Basic troubleshooting skills for devices, networks, and classroom technology, or the ability to learn these skills quickly.
Any questions regarding this position, please email Mr. Ed Bell at: ebell@iu9.org EOE
The Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) announces the winners of the 2025 Mini-Grant Program.
The Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2025-2026 Mini-Grant Program. In addition to at least $30,000 to be distributed in 2025 Mini Grant Funds by the Lumber Heritage Region, these grant projects will leverage more than $51,436 in local spending to build communities and improve life for residents and visitors.
The mini grant program is possible through the funding provided by DCNR’s partnership grant. The LHR was able to fund eight of the eighteen organizations that applied. “This year we received applications for more than $188,000 in leveraged projects – that’s incredible growth,” said Holly Komonczi, Executive Director at the Lumber Heritage Region. “It really shows the enthusiasm across our region and the impact our staff and partners are having in supporting local communities.”
Helen M. Newton, 85, of Emporium, PA
Helen M. Newton, 85, of Emporium, PA, passed away at Guy & Mary Felt Manor, Emporium, PA, on Sunday, November 23, 2025, following a brief illness. She was born May 13, 1940, in Ridgway, PA, a daughter of the late Bernard and Catherine Songer Bauer.
Helen graduated from Cameron County High School and devoted many years of service to Caldwell Corporation until her retirement in January 2022 at the remarkable age of 82.
Sheldon J. Roupp, 76, of Liberty
Sheldon J. Roupp, 76, of Liberty, passed away Friday, November 21, 2025, at his home. He was born June 6, 1949, in Blossburg, the son of the late Ernest C. and Ann Louise (Bowers) Roupp. He married the former Ellen Monson on August 28, 1971.
Sheldon graduated from Liberty High School, Class of 1968, was a Navy Veteran, serving during the Vietnam war on the USS Kitty Hawk, he was a drag line operator for Jones& Bragg Mining Co, Tioga, and worked for Ward Manufacturing, Blossburg.
Sheldon was a member of the Bass Club of Tioga, and the Corey Creek Golf Club, Mansfield. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, wintering in Florida, and spending time with grandchildren & great grandchildren who he adored.