McKean County Conservation District – Who are We?
Recognized by both the Pennsylvania State House and Senate, April 26-May 2nd, 2026 has been declared “Conservation District Week.”
We all know the importance of clean water and healthy soil to keep our families fed. Did you know that your local county conservation district is working in your community to ensure there is enough clean water and healthy soil for future generations?
This Friday, May 1 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Yetsu is presenting a free concert on the outdoor stage at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro. This “organic rock ‘n roll” band will perform originals from their first album and their in progress second.
Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and sit in the grassy area in front of the outdoor stage or on Central Avenue, which will be closed to motor vehicle traffic from the Warehouse Theatre to Main Street. If it rains, this concert will be moved indoors to the Deane Center’s Coolidge Theatre.
Angeline M. “Angie” Feldbauer, of Sunrise Road, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at UPMC Canterbury Place in Pittsburgh.
She was born September 21, 1947 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late Louis and Joanne Iorfido Votano.
Angie was a graduate of Johnsonburg, High School, class of 1965. She lived life to the fullest and there was never a dull moment. Her energy matched her personality that drew people in from all walks of life. She loved the simple pleasures-browsing her favorite shops, watching her QVC/ HSN and planning her next trip with her daughter, Jenny. Her and Ken would hoop it up square dancing or catching a good movie. Rarely one to stay home for long, she cherished being out and about, loved bumming around with family and friends, sharing laughter, and making memories wherever she went. She loved animals and her beloved dog Mia was a constant companion and source of comfort and happiness. She also delighted in dining out, especially her treasured Sunday breakfast outings with Ken, which became a weekly tradition filled with excitement and conversation. Her vibrant spirit, love of people, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
George A. Nero, 85, a lifelong resident of St. Marys, passed away unexpectedly with his family by his side on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at Penn Highlands Elk.
He was born on December 28, 1940, in Brockway, PA, a son of the late Anthony and Ella Squires Nero.
On October 29, 1960, he married Karen Anderson Nero, who survives. For 65 beautiful years, they moved through life hand in hand – rarely missing a polka dance where their laughter, steady rhythm, and enduring love became a familiar and cherished sight for all to see.
George was a proud graduate of Central High School, class of 1959, and was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church. He was a hardworking and dedicated businessman who proudly owned and operated General Fire Protection company for many years, earning the respect of all who knew him. Outside of work, he found his greatest joy in life’s simple pleasures-working his beloved bird dogs, polka dancing hand in hand with his wife, and spending quiet days at camp surrounded by the people he loved most. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them, creating memories that will be cherished for generations.
In addition to his wife and dancing partner of more than 65 years, Karen Anderson Nero, he is survived by three children; Laurel (Steve) Leuschel, Toni (Brian) Mosebarger, Andy (Lynette Meyer) Nero, all of St. Marys; and by his nine beloved grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law; Junette Weisner and Lyn Schrubb, as well as by numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by two brothers; Raymond and Dale Nero, and by three sisters; Dolly Yetzer, Eileen Rimer, and Priscilla Mortland. He was the last member of his immediate family.
A Mass of Christian Burial for George A. Nero will be celebrated on Monday, May 4, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church, 337 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Ignatius Camello, OSB, as celebrant.
Burial will follow in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation will be at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Sunday, May 3, 2026 from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Sacred Heart Church, NCP Polka Boosters, c/o John and Pat Moore, 331 Spring Street, Kane, PA 16735.
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
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of George A. Nero, please visit our flower store.
West Branch Township will hold the annual Spring Clean Up on Saturday, May 2nd & Sunday, May 3rd from 8am-5pm at the Maintenance Building, located at 213 Pigeon Hill Road, Galeton, PA 16922. West Branch Township residents and property owners can dispose of larger / miscellaneous items for free. Clean Up Pass must be presented at the gate entrance. For more information, including a list of acceptable items – visit www.westbranchtwp.com or contact the office at 814-435-7898.
Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that a project to trim and remove trees on two McKean County roadways started earlier this week. This work will enhance driver safety and extend the service life of the roadway surface.
This work will impact approximately 8.5 miles of Route 59 between Route 4003 (Bingham Road) in Lafayette Township and Hamlin Street in Smethport Borough as well as approximately 3.5 miles of Route 219 between Route 6 in Hamlin Township and Route 3006 (Westline Road) in Lafayette. PennDOT anticipates short delays as flaggers in the roadway provide traffic control. It urges drivers to exercise caution in all work zones, watch for flaggers and slow-moving or stopped traffic, obey posted speed limits, and always buckle up.
Tree trimming and removal provide “daylighting” to the roadway, allowing sunlight to speed snow and ice melt during winter. It also enhances sight distance at some locations and lessens the potential for old and dead trees to fall onto the road.
The contractors will complete the work during daylight hours. Sajak’s Tree Service of Coalport, PA, and Sidelines Tree Service of Oakdale, PA, are the contractors for this work. PennDOT anticipates the work being completed in a few weeks.
Drivers can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,200 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (April 27) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) began its quarterly business meeting by thanking anglers, agency staff, and volunteers for a safe and successful start to the 2026 trout season and promoting the plentiful fishing and boating opportunities that are just beginning as warmer spring temperatures arrive.
“With spring in full swing and even warmer summer temperatures not far behind, this is a truly special time of year to get outside and enjoy fishing and boating,” said John Mahn, Jr., PFBC President and District 2 Commissioner. “I appreciate the crowds of anglers that have been turning out for the first few weeks of trout season, including those who continue to assist our hatchery staff and Waterways Conservation Officers as they stock hundreds of waters statewide through Memorial Day. As water temperatures begin to warm up, the bass, panfish, and catfish action really begins to heat up on our rivers and lakes, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of the world-class Walleye fishery on Lake Erie beginning in May. As always, if you plan to fish from a boat, please remember to wear your life jacket.”
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and melanoma is its most dangerous form. The good news is that most skin cancers are highly treatable when found early, and many cases are preventable. Skin Cancer Awareness and Melanoma Awareness months are a good reminder to check your skin, protect it every day, and know when a spot needs medical attention.
Melanoma and other skin cancers: who is at risk?
Anyone can develop skin cancer. Risk is higher for people with a history of sunburns, frequent outdoor sun exposure, tanning bed use, many moles, or a personal or family history of skin cancer. People with lighter skin tones tend to be diagnosed more often, but melanoma can occur in any skin tone and may be missed when it appears in less sun-exposed areas such as the palms, soles, under nails, or inside the mouth. If you are not sure what is normal for your skin, that is a good reason to start looking regularly.
What to look for: the ABCDEs and other warning signs
We are pleased to recognize Trey Kiser from Port Allegany High School as our Student of the Week! Trey has been a dedicated member of Mr. Finch’s Building Construction Occupations Class at Seneca Highlands CTC for three years, where he has consistently demonstrated hard work, a positive attitude, and exceptional focus.
The Elk County Council on the Arts (ECCOTA), in partnership with Remake Learning Days, is excited to announce a family-friendly art experience, Mobiles: The Art of Movement, taking place on May 9 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the ECCOTA Gallery in Ridgway.
Led by teaching artist Caroline Fitch, this interactive art activity has participants exploring the fascinating world of 4D artwork: art that incorporates motion as an essential element. Students will learn about balance, design, and movement as they create their own unique hanging mobiles.
Designed for ages 8 and up, the class welcomes both individuals and families, encouraging participants to create and learn together in a supportive and creative environment.
Registration is encouraged and can be completed online at www.ECCOTA.com or through the ECCOTA Facebook page.
Regular and postseason playoff success have been a way of life for Penn College softball teams throughout this century.
Under coach Roger Harris from 2002-15, the Wildcats were 177-174, reaching the playoffs eight times, claiming two championships, two seconds and two thirds.
Under coach Jackie Klahold from 2016-19, teams were 76-70, with four playoff appearances and one second-place finish.
Coached by Angie Stackhouse from 2020 through last season, teams were 141-57, with three conference crowns (two United East), three trips to the NCAA Division III Regional, two conference runner-up finishes and one third-place finish.
Tonya I. Finster “loving wife, mother and grandmother”
ROULETTE, PA—Tonya I. Finster, 65, of Roulette, passed away with her loving husband by her side on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Gatehouse at Divine Providence Hospital, Williamsport, after a short illness.
Born on Wednesday, August 24, 1960 in Coudersport, she was a daughter of Samuel I. and Kathryn Pease Duell. On October 16, 1981 in Coudersport, she married George A. Finster, who survives.
Tonya was a graduate of Coudersport Area High School, Class of 1979. She attended Williamsport Community College. She was employed as a home health aide for many years.
Tonya enjoyed writing, drawing and reading. Her greatest love was spending time with her family.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband, George; her father, Samuel, of Colonial Heights, VA; a daughter, Amber (Austin) Moritz of Eldred; a granddaughter, Harley Moritz; a grandson, Christian Moritz; a sister, Trula Hollywood of Athens, PA; two brothers, Winn Scott (Hazel) Duell of Roulette and Randall C. Duell; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her mother, Tonya was predeceased by a brother, Samuel Duell.
Services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Tonya’s name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Tonya’s husband entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Tonya, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Claire F. Bassage “beloved father and grandfather”
PALMYRA, NY—Mr. Claire F. Bassage, 98, of Palmyra, formerly of Clara, PA and Eldred, PA, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026 in DeMay Living Center, Newark, NY.
Born on Sunday, January 22, 1928 in Walworth, NY, he was a son of Loyde and Leona Ikewood Bassage. On March 26, 1949 in Walworth, he married Hazel S. Schlesing, who passed away on March 24, 2021.
Claire was a graduate of Walworth High School, Class of 1945. He was employed by Wayne Central School District, Wayne County, NY, retiring as a bus mechanic after 30 years of service. He was also a self-employed farmer while residing in Walworth. Claire and his wife relocated to Clara, PA in 1984 where he farmed there for 30 years. He moved to Eldred, PA in 2014. He and his wife moved to Palmyra, NY in 2017.
In his early years while residing in Walworth, Claire was a member of the First Baptist Church. He enjoyed traveling and gardening.
Surviving are four children, Cynthia L. (David) Lang of Culpeper, VA, Bruce L. Bassage of Palmyra, Pamela A. Bassage of Ontario, NY, and Judith L. Bassage of Virginia; several grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; a brother, George L. (Gweneth) Bassage of Manchester; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and wife, Claire was predeceased by a son, Glen A. Bassage; and a brother, Robert Bassage.
In keeping with Claire’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Claire’s name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Claire entrusted his care and cremation arrangements 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 Claire, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Pamela A. Ruppert “loving wife, mother, and grandmother”
COUDERSPORT, PA—Pamela A. “Pam” Ruppert, 67, of Coudersport, passed away with her loving family by her side on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in UPMC Hamot, Erie, after a long illness.
Born on Sunday, April 19, 1959 in York, she was a daughter of James W. and Alverta Lehr Melton. On February 14, 1981 in Sunbury, she married Kenneth E. “Ken” Ruppert, Jr., who survives.
Pam attended Red Lion High School. She was an opening manager at McDonald’s in Red Lion for several years.
Pam was a member of God’s Country Ministries in Coudersport. She enjoyed her flower gardens and also enjoyed taking trips on their Harley. She loved her many dogs over the years.
Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 45 years; two sons, Justin R. Ruppert of Clarion and Kenneth Eugene Ruppert III of Ulysses; a daughter, Kendra R. A. (Kevin) Shaffer of Felton; eighteen grandchildren; a great-grandson to be born in 2026; a brother, James (Veronica) Melton of Portsmouth, VA; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Pam was predeceased by a son, Jammie J. Ruppert.
Family and friends may gather from 11:00am to 12:30pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at God’s Country Ministries, 1237 E. Second Street, Coudersport, where a celebration of Pam’s life will follow at 12:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Pam’s name may be made to God’s Country Ministries, PO Box 674, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Pam’s family has entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Pam, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Beverly A. MANNING, 85, of Genesee, PA, went home to be with her Lord on Monday, April 27, 2026 in Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY. A complete obituary will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Matthew J. STAHLEY, 49, of Ulysses, PA, died Thursday, April 23, 2026 in UPMC Williamsport. Born January 9, 1977, in Wellsville, NY, he was the son of Gary B. and Jamie L. Piperato Stahley.
Matthew was a pure soul who brought joy to everyone he met. Born with Down syndrome, he worked hard to overcome his challenges always with a smile on his face. He rode his bike like a whirlwind, won medals in special Olympics for sprinting, and was an ambassador of goodwill at his sibling’s ball games.
Matt greeted everyone, strangers and friends alike, with a smile and outstretched hand or a hug. His greatest talent was making people smile and laugh. He enjoyed scary movies, music, and dogs. Matt was proud to be an uncle to his nieces and nephews and enjoyed going to their sporting events; he was always their biggest fan. Anyone who ever met Matt has a fond memory or a funny story to share about him. We were blessed to have him in our family and will miss him greatly.
Surviving are: his parents, Gary and Jamie Stahley of Ulysses; five siblings, Sarah Osgood of Coudersport, Aaron (Janelle) Stahley of Ulysses, Rebekah Reynolds of Coudersport, Rachel (Aaron) Palmatier of Wellsville, and Ben (Heather) Stahley of Coudersport; seven nieces and three nephews, Joplin Osgood, Sheamus Osgood, Paiton Whipple, Ayden Whipple, Emmarie Whipple, Devin Stahley, Ella Stahley, Averee Palmatier, Taylor Palmatier, and Addy Palmatier; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Services will be private. Memorials may be made to Ulysses Library, P.O. Box 316, Ulysses, PA 16948. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
St. Marys, PA — Dauch AAM’s St. Marys Manufacturing Facility recently contributed $500 to the Women Who Care Fund at the Elk County Community Foundation in recognition of Women’s History Month, observed each March. The donation honors the women employees at Dauch and reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting the local community.
Women Who Care awards annual grants to organizations throughout Elk County that serve families and children. This contribution will help strengthen the fund and enhance the impact of the upcoming granting cycle by increasing the dollars available for distribution to local nonprofit organizations.
Women Who Care extends its sincere appreciation to Dauch AAM for its partnership and continued support of local organizations dedicated to improving the well-being of Elk County families.
Businesses and organizations that would like to honor their women employees are welcome to sponsor their employees’ memberships to Women Who Care or donate to WWC in their name. Giving circles like Women Who Care amplify women’s voices and impact: members learn about issues, vet organizations, and practice grantmaking together. Women Who Care is a community-based giving initiative that pools donations to award annual grants to organizations serving families and children throughout Elk County.
Women Who Care is a project of the Elk County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies.
At 13-4 overall, and tying its most successful regular season in program history set a year ago, the Penn College men’s lacrosse team finds itself in a familiar position as it heads into the United East Conference playoffs for the sixth consecutive season under coach Jordan Williams.
Playing a COVID-shortened schedule during their inaugural campaign in 2021, the Wildcats finished second to SUNY Morrisville. In 2022, they lost to St. Mary’s (Md.) College in the conference semifinals, and in 2023, they lost in the semifinals to SUNY Morrisville. The last two seasons in championship matches, they lost to St. Mary’s every time, but each year strides were being made.
On March 14 of this season in a nonconference outing, Penn College turned the tables on SUNY Morrisville, winning for the first time in six meetings.
Then, 14 days later in a UE matchup against St. Mary’s, the Wildcats had their best showing in their eight meetings as they led 10-8 after three periods of play before being outscored 5-0 in the fourth quarter. The three-goal final differential was the tightest ever between the two.
Smethport – Anita L. Benjamin, 86, of Smethport, passed away Saturday (April 25, 2026) surrounded by her family, at Sena Kean Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Smethport.
She was born March 14, 1940 in East Smethport, the daughter of Cecil and Crystabel (Smith) Grinolds. On July 8, 1960, in St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Smethport, she married Ronald C. “Skip” Benjamin, who died August 29, 2012.
Anita was a graduate of Smethport Area High School and was a homemaker tending to the needs of her family.
Anita and her husband Skip enjoyed camping and were camp hosts for the PA Park System. They had hosted Pymatuning State Park as well as Chapman State Park for several years.
Carol M. Geitner, 84, of St. Marys, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
She was born on February 24, 1942 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late George and Helen Wildnauer Meyer.
On April 20, 1963, in Queen of the World Church, she married the late Gerhart “Gary” Geitner, who preceded her in death on May 21, 2003.
Carol was a graduate of St. Marys High School, class of 1960. She worked for more than 25 years at Servco. Carol was a woman who found purpose in caring for others. When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed the simple comforts of home, with her little dog faithfully by her side and her favorite tv shows playing in the background. For many years, she looked forward to going camping, where she found peace in nature and joy in life’s slower moments. She also had a love for cooking, always enjoying sharing a warm meal with her beloved family. She took great pride in her flowers, tending to them with the same gentle care that she showed to those around her.
She is survived by 4 children; Keith “Bootsie” Geitner of St. Marys, Scott Geitner of St. Marys, Dawn (Bob) Nasoni of St. Marys, and Christine (Rich) Kraus of Flagler Beach, FL, a daughter-in-law; Lori Geitner of St. Marys, and by her ten beloved grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one brother; Greg (Donna) Meyer and by numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her son; Richard “Hinder” Geitner who preceded her in death on Jan. 27, 2024, and by three brothers; James, Donald, and Jack Meyer.
A Memorial Service for Carol M. Geitner will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA, 15857.
Family and Friends will be received on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Elk County Humane Society.
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
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Carol M. Geitner, please visit our flower store.
2 Day Estate Sale! May 1 & 2, 2026
Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm
35 Pioneer Rd Emporium, PA (Sylvan Heights)
Antique Singer Sewing Machine, Tools, living-room furniture, French door refrigerator, push-mower, air compressor, player pianos, bird cages, outdoor furniture, Copper Chef, Wolfgang Puck cooking items, antique/vintage toys, vintage typewriter, shelves, stands, woodworking tools, drill presses, player piano rolls, pole saw, ramps, bedding, dressers, desks, blankets, fine china, kitchen table, hutch, outdoor swing, freezers, mini refrigerator, cameras, TVs, Crocks, clothes, clocks, and much more. Please do not block driveways and respect the neighbors.
