Causer, Dush Announce Nearly $2.4 Million in Local Grants
HARRISBURG – Nearly $2.4 million in grants have been awarded for a variety of municipal equipment, infrastructure and recreation projects in Cameron, McKean and Potter counties, Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) and Sen. Cris Dush (R-25) announced today.
“From road work and flood mitigation to maintenance equipment and recreation investments, these grants support vital improvements in our communities to better meet the needs of residents,” Causer said. “I was pleased to advocate for these important local initiatives and bring this funding to our region, and I commend our local officials for making these projects happen.”
“Tropical Storm Debby caused catastrophic flooding in much of our area back in 2024 and has had lasting effects in areas like Coudersport and Emporium,” said Dush. “As someone who has been a strong advocate for funding to help rebuild these areas, I am pleased to see these flood prevention projects receive significant state support.”
The following municipal grants were awarded through the statewide Local Share Account program, which is funded through state gaming revenues:
- Ceres Township – $140,000 for the purchase of a Ford F600 truck with a heavy-duty snowplow, tailgate spreader and wing plow package.
- Corydon Township – $228,846 for the purchase and upfitting of a plow truck.
- Coudersport Area Municipal Authority – $550,000 for the Park Avenue Levee sewer replacement project in Eulalia Township. The project is necessary for the borough to have its flood control levee certified.
- Driftwood Borough – $60,242 for the purchase of a new Masey Ferguson Hydro-Compact tractor, with a bucket, backhoe and other attachments.
- Eldred Township – $183,665 for renovation of the Sartwell Road bridge over Newell Creek.
- Emporium Borough – $780,342 for nearly 7 miles of roadway work, including milling, paving and reconstruction to properly divert storm surge during high-water events.
- Genesee Township – $76,209 for purchase of a new maintenance truck with attachments, including a plow, spreader and brine maker.
- Lafayette Township – $99,968 to purchase a tandem roller for use in road maintenance.
- Roulette Township – $85,000 for purchase of a mini excavator to maintain road and drainage facilities.
Additional grants were awarded through the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program, which is supported by impact fees assessed on natural gas production in the Commonwealth:
- Genesee Township – $25,000 for upgrading playground equipment at the Genesee Township Park.
- Tuna Valley Trail Association – $150,000 for construction and engineering for the Kinzua Trail Bridge Connection.
All grants were given final approval Thursday at a meeting of the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
Betsy A. “Betty Lou” McLANE, 73, of Bolivar, NY
Betsy A. “Betty Lou” McLANE, 73, of Bolivar, NY, died Wednesday, December 17, 2025 in her home. Born October 11, 1952, in York, PA, she was the daughter of Edwin and Mary Louise Albright Rowe.
She worked as a waitress and in food service most of her life. Betsy was employed by The Old Library and The Castle in Olean, Dave’s Diner in Ceres, Jim Day’s Sub Shop in Bolivar, Giant in Wellsville, and as a caregiver by ARC of Allegany-Steuben in Wellsville.
Michael G. Kirsch, 73, of Rexville, NY
Michael G. KIRSCH, 73, of Rexville, NY, died Wednesday, December 17, 2025 in his home. Born August 24, 1952, in Buffalo, he was the son of Francis and Helen Ely Kirsch.
On October 15, 1999, in Rexville, he married the love of his life, Kathryn “Kitty” Boyle, who survives. A graduate of West Seneca East High School and Canisius University, he was employed by National Fuel from 1978 until his retirement in 2008.
Surviving besides his wife, Kitty, are: a son, Matthew (Viki) Kirsch of Hamburg; a daughter, Abigail (John) Swanson of Franklinville; three grandchildren, Owen, Abraham, and Naomi; five siblings, Ed Kirsch, Kathy Folaron, Jean Kirsch, Mark (Kim) Kirsch, and Anne Sperduto; nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a son, Emmett Kirsch, on March 27, 2022. Services will be private. Memorials may be made to the Whitesville Public Library, P.O. Box 158, Whitesville, NY 14897.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Leona M. Fritz, of St. Marys, PA
Leona M. Fritz, of St. Marys, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Elk Haven Nursing Home at the remarkable age of 103, having lived a long and full life.
She was born on May 27, 1922 in Emporium, PA, a daughter of the late George and Josephine Zwack Wortman.
On January 12, 1944, she married the late Richard B. “Dick” Fritz, who preceded her in death in 2005.
ADDITIONAL CHARGES FILED AGAINST MAN WHO STOLE FROM ELDRED STORE
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that additional charges were filed today against the man apprehended and charged by Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Bradley Walters with crimes against Gambit Ruse in Eldred. Kameron PHILLIPS, of Emporium, is now accused of Robbery, Persons Not to Possess (possession of firearm by disqualified possessor), and Theft. PHILLIPS is scheduled for a preliminary hearing next week.
Aggravated Assault Arrest In Bradford
Chief of Police Michael P. Ward of the City of Bradford Police Department announces that on December 13, 2025, at approximately 0100 hours, officers responded to Bradford Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Room (BRMC ER) to investigate an assault on ER staff and paramedics. Following a thorough investigation, it was determined that 25-year-old Haley N. Baker intentionally kicked a paramedic while they were performing their duties.
Additionally, Baker struggled with ER staff and assaulted another male victim, striking and kicking him while he was performing his duties. Officers arrested Baker for the assaults and transported her to the City of Bradford Police Station.
She was charged with Aggravated Assault, Disorderly Conduct, and Harassment. Magistrate William Todd arraigned Baker and set bail at $25,000 cash, which she was unable to post. Baker was subsequently remanded to McKean County Jail. Preliminary hearings for this incident are scheduled.
The City of Bradford Police Department takes incidents of assault very seriously and will utilize all available resources to prosecute these types of crimes to the fullest extent of the law. If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the City of Bradford Police Department at 814-887-4911. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Hazardous Road Conditions Be Careful If You Must Drive
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service State College PA
254 PM EST Fri Dec 19 2025
…LOCALLY HAZARDOUS TRAVEL CONDITIONS THIS AFTERNOON THROUGH THE
EVENING COMMUTE…
Snow and blowing snow will result in locally hazardous travel conditions this afternoon through the evening commute. Motorists should be prepared for rapid changes in visibility and travel
PennDOT Announces Winners Of Paint The Plow Contest In North Central Region
Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announces the District 2 regional winners of the Paint the Plow safety outreach contest.
Paint the Plow is a statewide initiative that highlights safe winter driving while showcasing the artistic talents of students across Pennsylvania. Students paint snowplow blades with original artwork reflecting a theme selected by PennDOT.
This year, Moshannon Valley Junior-Senior High School of Clearfield County won the “Fan Favorite” award, determined by online voting at penndot.pa.gov/PaintThePlow. The fans decided their plow design best captured the spirit of this year’s theme “Don’t race. Allow some Space.”
Members of the public were invited to vote for their favorite plow from seven area high schools that entered in this year’s regional contest. Votes were accepted from December 8, through December 14, 2025.
Fleeing And Eluding Arrest In Bradford
Chief Michael P. Ward of the City of Bradford Police Department announces the arrest of Jennifer Lee Coldren following a traffic stop and pursuit on December 12, 2025.
At approximately 1152 hrs on York Street in the City of Bradford, Officer Blair attempted to stop a motor vehicle for a traffic violation. The vehicle failed to stop and fled the area, prompting a pursuit into Foster Township’s Bolivar Drive.
City of Bradford Police Officers were assisted by Foster Township Police in the pursuit. The vehicle was abandoned in the front yard of a residence, and the female operator, Jennifer Lee Coldren, was chased on foot into a nearby residence where she was apprehended.
A search warrant was executed on the defendant’s vehicle, resulting in the seizure of drug paraphernalia. It was determined that Coldren was driving under the influence of controlled substances. She was charged with fleeing and eluding, drug paraphernalia, DUI, and numerous traffic offenses. Magistrate William Todd arraigned Coldren and remanded her to McKean County Jail on $25,000 bail. Preliminary hearings are scheduled in the matter.
The City of Bradford Police Department takes DUI and traffic offenses extremely seriously and will prosecute to the fullest extent. The involvement of illegal narcotics in this incident is also a significant concern, as it poses a threat to the safety of our community. We will not tolerate such behavior and will continue to work diligently to keep our streets safe.
Possession With Intent To Distribute Drugs Arrest In Bradford
Chief of Police Michael P. Ward reports that the City of Bradford Police Department has made a significant drug bust, resulting in the arrest of Lex M. Gourley, age 22.
On October 28, 2025, at approximately 0049 hours, City Police Officer Colby Keane conducted a traffic stop on West Washington Street in the City of Bradford. During the stop, Officer Keane determined that the operator, Gourley, was operating the motor vehicle while under suspension in Pennsylvania.
Further investigation revealed that Gourley had provided false identification originally, and subsequently, Officer Keane discovered an active arrest warrant out of McKean County. Gourley was taken into custody on the warrant, and a search of his person revealed a large amount of cash and fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.
A search warrant was executed on the vehicle, resulting in the seizure of a large quantity of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, suspected oxycodone, and marijuana. The drugs were packaged in 12 separate individual bags, along with weighing scales, indicative of possessing with intent to deliver.
Gourley was initially taken into custody on the county bench warrant on October 28, 2025. On December 3, 2025, Officer Keane filed charges related to the traffic stop and drug seizure. Magistrate Todd arraigned Gourley and set bail at $25,000. Preliminary hearings are scheduled in the matter. The City of Bradford Police Department remains committed to combating drug crimes and will continue to utilize all resources to further arrest and prosecute individuals involved in these types of crimes.
“I am proud of the diligent work of Officer Keane and the entire City of Bradford Police Department in removing these dangerous drugs from our community” . “We will continue to work tirelessly to keep our city safe and hold those responsible for drug-related crimes accountable.”
All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Terroristic Threats Arrest In Bradford
Chief Michael P. Ward of the City of Bradford Police Department reports the following information regarding an incident that occurred on December 15, 2025.
At approximately 1443 hours, City of Bradford Police responded to Bradford Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Room (BRMC ER) after McKean County 911 reported a call from an individual, identified as Jordan M. Kornacki, who threatened to become violent with BRMC staff. Officers arrived on the scene and attempted to de-escalate the situation, but the individual continued to threaten harm to BRMC staff and officers, as well as threaten to cause property damage.
Despite repeated warnings, the individual failed to comply, and subsequently requested to be taken to jail. During the arrest, the individual made further threats to stab BRMC staff in the neck or face and/or punch them in the face. A search of the individual following the arrest resulted in the seizure of a small amount of Cocaine (Schedule II), THC Marijuana (Schedule I), and related paraphernalia.
The individual was charged accordingly and arraigned by Magistrate William Todd, with bail set at $15,000 cash. Preliminary hearings are scheduled in the matter. The City of Bradford Police Department takes incidents of this nature very seriously and will not tolerate crimes of violence or threats of violence. Medical staff acting in good faith in the care of others should be able to perform their duties without fear of harm. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
PennDOT Announces Winners of Paint the Plow Contest in North Central Region
Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announces the District 2 regional winners of the Paint the Plow safety outreach contest.
Paint the Plow is a statewide initiative that highlights safe winter driving while showcasing the artistic talents of students across Pennsylvania. Students paint snowplow blades with original artwork reflecting a theme selected by PennDOT.
This year, Moshannon Valley Junior-Senior High School of Clearfield County won the “Fan Favorite” award, determined by online voting at penndot.pa.gov/PaintThePlow. The fans decided their plow design best captured the spirit of this year’s theme “Don’t race. Allow some Space.”
Members of the public were invited to vote for their favorite plow from seven area high schools that entered in this year’s regional contest. Votes were accepted from December 8, through December 14, 2025.
Linda Mae Garris Ackley, 81, of Route 6 east of Kane
Linda Mae Garris Ackley, 81, of Route 6 east of Kane, passed away on December 15th, 2025 at Kane Community Hospital surrounded by loved ones. Born, Dec. 14, 1944 in Kane, she is the daughter of the late Harry E. and Mary H. (Gault) Garris.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 46 years, Larry W. Ackley, her loving parents, and her treasured siblings Donald Garris and Betty Ann Mack.
Surviving are her beloved sister Lois Ann Spaich, her loving brother and his wife David and Nanci K. Garris, and her adoring children Dawn Marie Page, Jeff and Karen Ackley, Sue Ann and Jeff Morehead, and Shawn and Valarie Ackley. She will be dearly missed by her nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and her loyal companion Bandit.
Linda was a lifelong resident of Kane, PA, making longstanding and valuable contributions to the 4-H, McKean County Fair Association, Ladies’ Auxiliary, and church communities.
A visitation will be held for friends and family at Cummings Funeral Home from 1-3PM on Sunday, December 21, followed by a memorial service at 3PM with the Rev. cam Mealy officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to National Pediatric Cancer Foundation at nationalpcf.org.
Online condolences can be expressed at cummingsfh.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Linda M. Ackley, please visit our floral store.
Northern Pennsylvania Regional College Dean’s List Fall 2025
Warren, PA: Northern Pennsylvania Regional College has announced students who achieved Dean’s List recognition for the Fall 2025 term from Potter County.
Students take classes at one of our over 20 different instructional locations or online and include:
Potter County
AUSTIN – Kaitlyn Crosby and Kiera Dynda
COUDERSPORT – Mia Gee, Karrie Page, and Jonathon Suladie
GALETON – George Altvater and Ashley Zengerle
ROULETTE – Casey Tilley
ULYSSES – Bambi Coates
The Dean’s List recognizes the academic achievements of students who remained in good academic standing and earned a 3.0 grade-point average (GPA) or greater during the Fall 2025 term. This outstanding scholarship contributes to the high reputation for excellence at NPRC. An official press release can be found online at https://regionalcollegepa.org/deans-list-fall-2025/.
SAMUEL FRIDAY INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ANOTHER ARREST, JAMES KOBUCK THE 4TH MONSTER
December 18, 2025
Since the arrests of Samuel Friday, Michael Woomer and Morris Reece, investigators have been working tirelessly, following all available leads to discover the complete picture of what happened in Mr. Friday’s basement over the years. While reviewing the voluminous evidence obtained in this matter, a fourth individual has been arrested. A criminal complaint has been filed against James Kobuck of Tyrone, Pennsylvania charging him with felony charges related to Human Trafficking and Production of
Child Pornography.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation that a person has committed a criminal act or acts under Pennsylvania law. The law requires that every person so accused, including James Kobuck, be presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
If you have any information regarding this investigation and any of the individuals involved, please reach out to Trooper Jonathan Hodges at the PSP Rockview Barracks or by calling in at 814.355.7545, or County Detective John Aston at the District Attorney’s Office, 814.355.6735.
Gilbert And Linda Witte Health Care Scholarship Established At CRCF
After 34 years of dedicated service as medical director of HomeCare & Hospice, Dr. Gilbert Witte will retire on December 31, 2025.
After more than three decades guiding patients and families with medical expertise and empathy, Dr. Witte has left an indelible mark on hospice care in Cattaraugus County. His leadership at HomeCare & Hospice has long been defined by a philosophy of preserving dignity, providing comfort and fostering hope.
At a celebration for Dr. Witte’s retirement, HomeCare & Hospice CEO Melissa Sullivan remarked that Dr. Witte “has a remarkable way of connecting with people and has helped prepare patients and families for their final journey with grace, understanding and peace.”
Behind the Numbers: PUC Chairman Recognizes Staff and 2025 Accomplishments
Year-end message underscores the daily work, judgment, and care that support utility service for nearly 13 million Pennsylvanians
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) Chairman Steve DeFrank today closed the Commission’s final public meeting of 2025 with a message of thanks to PUC employees and a reflection on the work performed throughout the year to protect consumers and ensure safe, reliable utility service for nearly 13 million Pennsylvanians.
“This work is not abstract,” Chairman DeFrank said. “It affects whether families have heat in the winter, clean water at the tap, safe transportation, reliable communications, and confidence that the systems they depend on will be there tomorrow. And in 2025, PUC staff delivered.”
DANLEY LEADS BUREAU OF WILDLIFE PROTECTION
The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Bureau of Wildlife Protection has a new director.
Richard “Rod” Danley, who has worked for the Game Commission for more than 25 years, started in the role Sept. 27, overseeing and directing the agency’s law-enforcement operations.
“Wildlife Protection is a dynamic, fast-paced, and highly valuable bureau serving the agency’s core mission,” said Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith. “Rod brings a wide range, and depth, of law-enforcement experience that is helping him excel in his new position.”
Danley started his career path at Unity College in Maine, graduating in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science in Conservation Law Enforcement degree. After graduation, he worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources as a Park Ranger, then a Forest Ranger. He joined the Pennsylvania Game Commission in 1999 as a member of the 25th Class of the Ross Leffler School of Conservation.
Upon graduation, Danley was assigned to the Bureau of Law Enforcement’s Special Investigation Unit, serving in that role as a covert investigator from 2000 to 2005. He transferred in 2005 to the Southern Huntingdon County Field District, handling the district needs from 2005 to 2011.
In 2011, Danley was promoted to the Southcentral Regional Office as the Information and Education Supervisor and served in that capacity until he transferred to the Law Enforcement Supervisor of the Southcentral Region in 2012 and remained there until his promotion to Bureau Director for Wildlife Protection.
“I have had the privilege of serving in wildlife law enforcement for the majority of my career, but now having the opportunity to lead those efforts is truly an honor,” said Danley. “Pennsylvania Game Wardens have such a rich heritage and continue to lead the charge, nationally, when it comes to protecting wildlife.”
Danley resides in Mount Union, Pa. with his two dogs.
ADDITIONAL CHARGES FILED AGAINST LEWIS RUN MAN
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that additional charges have been filed against the Lewis Run man charged with Rape and other offenses. Ray COAST now faces additional counts including 22 counts of Sexual Abuse of a Child (Child Pornography) (indecent contact depicted) – Felony 2; 16 counts of Sexual Abuse of a Child (Child Pornography) – (nudity) – Felony 3 (The Commonwealth will seek enhancements provided for under the sentencing code for number of videos and photographs (each video = 50 images), nature of the video/photograph, and that the victim was known to the defendant); 22 counts Dissemination to Minors – Felony 3; 60 counts Criminal Use of a Communication Device – Felony 3; and other counts.
Trooper Richard Obermeyer of the Pennsylvania State Police – Lewis Run is investigating the case. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for next week. COAST is incarcerated on $1 million and $250,000 on each of two criminal complaints already filed.
The original complaint asserts that Ray COAST has been charged with committing crimes across a three year period at his home in Lewis Run and within the City of Bradford.
BRADFORD MAN NOW CHARGED WITH FELONY AGGRAVATED CRUELTY AFTER DEATH OF DOG
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that an additional charge was filed yesterday against the Bradford man charged with cruelty and neglect of animals. George JONES has now been charged with Aggravated Cruelty, a Felony of the third degree, after one of the dogs in his care died. JONES was originally charged with misdemeanor and summary offenses which is consistent with the gradings provided for in the statute drafted by the legislature. But, when the neglect or abuse causes the death of the animal, the statute provides for a new crime of Aggravated Cruelty to be charged which carries a grading of Felony 3.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Check out our upcoming CEC Discover Lab and No School Day programs for the month of January!
Discover Lab:
Dates/Location/Times:
January 5, 2026-Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library, 3:30pm-5:00pm (Grades 3-5)
January 13, 2026-Johnsonburg Public Library, 4:00pm-5:30pm (Grades 3-5)
January 26, 2026-Bennett’s Valley Community Center, 6:00pm-7:00pm (Grades K-8)
January 27, 2026-Boys and Girls Club of St. Marys, 4:00pm-5:00pm (Grades 3-5)
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