LIVE REINDEER, SANTA CLAUS MAGICAL LIGHTS PARADE, HISTORIC GLASS ORNAMENT DISPLAYS AND SO MANY OTHER FUN THINGS TO SEE AND DO DURING WELLSBORO’S CHRISTMAS ON MAIN STREET THURSDAY, DEC. 8 THROUGH THIS SUNDAY, DEC. 11
A young girl meets a reindeer during a recent Christmas On Main Street.
There will be lots to see and do during Wellsboro’s 7th Annual Christmas On Main Street tonight, Thursday, Dec. 8 through this Sunday, Dec. 8-11.
The kickoff will be a free reception for the public and all former glass factory employees tonight, Thursday, Dec. 8 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Gmeiner Art and Cultural Center at 134 Main Street. Members of the Wellsboro Glass
Historical Association will share stories about how their collection of glass artifacts came to be and the vision for a future museum in Wellsboro to house the collection and the ribbon machines.
The finale will be the Santa Claus Magical Lights Parade beginning this Sunday at 5 p.m. on Central Avenue near The Native Bagel and traveling on Main Street, turning onto Queen Street and ending at Packer Park.
From 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Dec. 9-11, local glass artist Greg Hoke will demonstrate the art of lampworking – shaping glass over an open flame – outdoors in the Gmeiner Art and Cultural Center parking lot, weather permitting. He will have glass snowmen, ornaments and a few surprises available for purchase.
On Friday, Saturday or Sunday go on an historic walking tour to learn about some of the people who helped make Wellsboro what it is today from Fannie Dunham to Larry Woodin and Leonard Harrison.
Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, youngsters and adults can visit two live reindeer, Twinkle and her daughter Little Star in the parking lot on Main Street between the United Methodist Church and Sherwin-Williams Paint Store. They can take pictures from outside the reindeers’ enclosure of themselves with the reindeer in the background. Or, visitors can opt for a $10 session to sit or stand with a reindeer up close and personal and take a photo of themselves with a reindeer or ask a friend to use a cell phone or a regular camera to take a photo of that magical moment. Or, upon request one of the reindeer handlers will take the camera or cell phone and take the photo.
Or, on Saturday, see the film “Arthur Christmas” for $1, ride in a horse drawn wagon, attend the craft show, spend $1 for a candy cane sundae, or enjoy free hot chocolate or a free swing dance lesson followed by a free big band performance.
And there is so much more to do this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
For a schedule of all events, visit www.wellsborochristmasonmainstreet.com.
Where to Get Free Map of Schedule of Events and More
The free Christmas On Main Street map that includes the schedule of events, geographic locations of participating businesses and ornament displays and other pertinent information about Christmas On Main Street is available at the Penn Wells Hotel at 62 Main Street, Pop’s Culture Shoppe at 25 Main Street, Wild Asaph Outfitters at 71 Main Street and the Farmer’s Daughters at 11719 Route 6, Wellsboro, PA 16901.
Also available at those four locations are the Christmas on Main Street guidebook and passport. The guidebook titled “The Town that Saved Christmas: A History of Creativity” tells the history behind the ornament displays at the 30 participating locations. Get the passport stamped at 10 or more of those 30 locations to be entered in the raffle for a chance to win lots of gift cards.
Potter County—Efforts Launched To Resurrect Arts Council
Resurrection of the Potter County Arts Council was among the goals established during a brainstorming session held recently at the Gunzburger Building. Last week, with support from the Potter County Commissioners, a steering committee applied to the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts for a grant to help make it happen. Funding, if approved, would also be used for an arts-in-education project involving Potter County schools and, potentially, a local performance by award-winning musicians sitting side-by-side with local students.
Earlier this year, Potter County was one of six locations in the nation chosen for a yearlong pilot project to create a vibrant arts culture that can support community and economic development. The “Creative Counties Placemaking Challenge: Arts & Culture as an Economic Driver” initiative is sponsored by the Americans for the Arts (AFA). Potter County’s project involves the use of schools, libraries, artisans, local leaders, businesses, galleries/museums and volunteers.
About 25 invited guests participated in the local brainstorming session, representing businesses, libraries, schools, tourist marketing, historic preservation, county government, arts/culture centers and multiple forms of the arts — music, theater, fiber arts, artisan crafts and others. Here’s a summary of Potter County’s strategic plan:
Potter County’s overarching goals
- to reverse population loss and rising median age;
- to make Potter County more appealing to those who live here, those who are looking to relocate to a rural community, and those who left Potter County and might consider returning;
- to use the arts as part of a broader strategy for community and economic development.
So what’s happened so far?
- A steering committee has been developed to draft and implement a work plan.
- Potential partners and advisors have been contacted to apprise them of the mission.
- Steps are being taken to resurrect the Potter County Arts Council.
- Collaboration continues with the Americans for the Arts and project partners to fully maximize Potter County’s engagement.
- Communication tools have been developed to apprise and engage potential partners and volunteers.
What’s next?
- Investigate potential sources of funding, technical assistance/consulting and locations.
- Continue research into best practices/successful rural models.
- Lay groundwork for a countywide arts-in-education project.
- Survey local school students and young adults to learn more of their expectations or preferences to make local communities more appealing.
Teams from the other five national pilot projects are working on other strategies that could also benefit Potter County. These include:
- Greenbriar County, W. Va., using the arts to promote rehabilitation, healing and recovery from addiction to alcohol and other drugs.
- Puna Community, Hawaii, employing the arts to address poverty and strengthen a sense of community and appreciation for the local culture and environment.
- LaCrosse County, Wisc., integrating the arts with other activities to raise awareness of the impact of climate change on rural communities.
- Perry County, Ohio, using the arts to deepen appreciation for, and protection of, outdoor recreation and the environment.
- Van Buren County, Mich., addressing mental illness and physical well-being with the arts, involving the court system, local governments and other partners.
Old Fashioned Christmas this Saturday
The American Caroling Company and Artisan Market return to Marilyn Horne Hall located at 2 Marilyn Horne Way in historic downtown Bradford, Pennsylvania, this Saturday, December 10.
The museum will have complimentary gingerbread cookies and warm cider for visitors, and costumed carolers will roam the event intermittently from noon until 3 p.m.
This holiday celebration is free and open to everyone.
In addition to the artisan market, the museum shop will be open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Library offers free used books through end of year
Thursday, December 8, 2022
The Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library used book sales are done for the year and they have been able to raise a decent amount thanks to the generosity of patrons. As a “Thank You” to the community, the Library Board had decided to make all remaining used books left on the carts in our Multipurpose room 100% FREE now through December 31, 2022.
There are plenty of empty boxes to load up and books in every category! Monetary donations are still (and always) welcomed.
Come stock up and save these books from being recycled today!
Please note, the library is not currently accepting physical donations of any kind.
For questions or more details, contact Library staff at 814-486-8011.
Artisan Co-op to host Winter Open House
The Potter County Artisan Co-op in Coudersport will have a winter open house Friday December 16 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand. Eppie Bailey and Friends will provide live Christmas music. Mimosas, hot coffee and tasty treats will be served.
Over 40 artisans participate in the co-op providing a vast selection of handmade gift items in a wide range of prices.
The co-op is located at 227 N. Main Street, Coudersport and is open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday. Hours have been expanded until 7:00 pm December 19-23, 2022 for last minute shopping. For more information call the co-op at 814-274-8165 or email pottercountyartisancenter@gmail.com
Donna Jean Nelson Schwartz Painter, 97, of Hughesville, PA
MONTOURSVILLE – Donna Jean Nelson Schwartz Painter, 97, of Hughesville, PA died Monday (Dec. 5, 2022) at Muncy Hospital.
She was born May 2, 1925, in Smethport, a daughter to the late Don C. and Lois G. Nelson.
Donna graduated from Smethport High School, McKean County in 1943 and Robert Packer Hospital School of Nursing, Sayre, in 1947.
She was staff nurse at Coudersport Hospital in 1947, Williamsport Hospital from 1949-1951 and Divine Providence Hospital from 1961-1964. She was then employed at Williamsport Hospital from 1965-1976 as ICU Head Nurse as well as Patient Clinical Instructor. Then from 1980-1982 she was staff nurse at Red Bird Missions Hospital in Beverly, Ky.
She was active in American Red Cross, Cancer Society, Reach to Recovery Program, Hospice, United Methodist Women, Home Visitor with Faith United Methodist Church, and attended Community Baptist Church, Montoursville, for many years.
In addition to her parents she was preceded by her brothers, Gerald C. Nelson and Frederick D. Nelson; first husband, Louis R. Schwartz in 1979; son Don E. Schwartz in 2000; and second husband, David G. Painter in 2021.
Surviving is her son, Jeffrey (Sharon) Schwartz of Tyler, Texas; stepdaughter, Glenda (Charles) Farrington of Montoursville; grandchildren, Eric (Crystal) Schwartz of Tyler, Texas, Melissa Schwartz Grimes of Tyler, Texas, Marcey (Todd) Snyder of Bloomsburg, Douglas Farrington of Wellsboro, and David (Alicia) Farrington of Sanford, Fla.; sister-in-law, Kimball H. Nelson; 10 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Burial will be in Montoursville Cemetery and Life Celebration will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are being handled by Spitler Funeral Home, Montoursville. www.spitlerfuneralhome.com
PUC Rejects Proposed Settlement with Columbia Gas Concerning Washington County House Explosion
Refers Case to PUC’s Independent Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement for Further Proceedings Concerning 2019 Incident That Destroyed a Home in Washington, Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today rejected a proposed settlement regarding a natural gas explosion that destroyed a house in the City of Washington, Pennsylvania, in July 2019 – injuring several people and damaging other nearby homes. The incident occurred as construction work was underway nearby on a Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania (Columbia Gas) project involving gas mains in the area.
The Commission voted 3-2 to refer the matter to the PUC’s independent Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement (I&E) for further proceedings, based on a motion from PUC Chairman Gladys Brown Dutrieuille.
Explosion Investigation
Pipeline safety inspectors from I&E and the Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal jointly conducted an evaluation to determine the cause of the July 31, 2019, explosion at 100 Park Lane.
According to investigators, the primary cause of the explosion was the over-pressurization of the house piping and appliances – noting that Columbia Gas had failed to include the …
View this press release on our website
Kathleen I. Galloway Mong Shultz, 75, of South Center Street, Eldred, PA
Kathleen I. Galloway Mong Shultz, 75, of South Center Street, Eldred, PA passed away on Saturday (Dec. 3, 2022) at her residence.
Friends may call on Saturday (Dec. 10, 2022) at the Frame Funeral Home, Eldred, from noon to 1 p.m., at which time funeral services will be held with the Rev. Thomas E. Brown officiating. Burial will follow in Lamphier Cemetery, Eldred.
Online condolences may be made at www.framefuneralhome.com
Drought Watch Remains For Potter County, Lifted For 15 Others
Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced today after a meeting of the Commonwealth Drought Task Force that drought watch has been lifted for 15 counties and remains for five counties.
Carbon, Luzerne, Northampton, Potter, and Schuylkill counties remain on drought watch.
Drought watch has been lifted for Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Columbia, Dauphin, Juniata, Lebanon, Lycoming, Mifflin, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Snyder, and Union counties.
For a map of drought declarations updated daily, see the DEP drought web page.
Residents on drought watch are asked to reduce their individual water use by 5-10%, or a reduction of three to six gallons of water per day.
CROOKED CREEK HAPPY VALLEY ROAD ACCESS IN ERIE COUNTY TO BE CLOSED TEMPORARILY
HARRISBURG, Pa. (December 8) –The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) announced today that the Crooked Creek Happy Valley Road Access, which provides fishing access to Crooked Creek in Springfield Township, Erie County, will be temporarily closed to the public until further notice.
This closure is related to an ongoing Norfolk Southern construction project in the area. For safety purposes, both parking areas at the site will be closed and fishing access to Crooked Creek near the Norfolk Southern railroad culvert located adjacent to the site will be restricted.
The PFBC thanks the public for their patience and understanding during this facility closure.
Mae’s Country Griddle Opens in Galeton
Galeton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to have Mae’s Kountry Griddle as a new business.
. Located at 75 Germania Street, the venue is serving breakfast all day as well as having a lunch menu. There is plenty of parking for their patrons. Hours are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 6 AM – 7 PM, Sunday 6 AM – 4 PM, closed Monday and Tuesday. Reservations are appreciated but not necessary.
There is a wide assortment of menu selections from egg scrambles to flap jacks to sandwiches toasted on the grill. Future plans may include daily and dinner specials.
Owners Linda and Brian are pleased to know all their hard work has made their dream become a reality. Booths line the east wall as well as tables for diner’s enjoyment. Stop in and see Linda & Brian to wish them well in addition to having a great meal.
Photo by Andy Lychalk, Jr.
PUC Approves Settlement with CenturyLink Concerning Alleged Outages and Unreliable Service
Settlement Highlighted by CenturyLink’s Enhanced Quality Assurance Program, New Remedial Measures and $45,000 Civil Penalty
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement between The United Telephone Company of Pennsylvania LLC d/b/a CenturyLink (CenturyLink) and the PUC’s independent Bureau of Investigation & Enforcement (I&E), following I&E’s informal investigation into alleged outages, unreliable service and general customer service complaints.
The Commission voted 5-0 to approve a Joint Petition for Approval of Settlement between CenturyLink and I&E – which began an informal investigation based upon multiple informal complaints received by the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services (BCS) and concerns raised by state legislators in the fall of 2021. Based on those complaints, I&E’s investigation alleged the following violations by CenturyLink as a rural incumbent local exchange carrier:
- Failure to provide reasonable, continuous service.
- Failure to address or repair the service outage in a reasonable amount of time.
- Failure to respond to downed wire or poles and/or broken poles in a reasonable time.
- Failure to provide adequate customer service and address service outages.
Under the conditions of the settlement, CenturyLink agrees to the following:
- Pay a $45,000 civil penalty, which will not be tax deductible or able to be passed through as an additional charge to CenturyLink’s customer in Pennsylvania.
- Implement numerous remedial measures, including but not limited to the ongoing implementation of CenturyLink’s Quality Assurance Program as well as ongoing status and progress reports with both BCS and legislative offices.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.
Lawrence J. “Pete” Peterson, 78, of Wellsboro, PA
Lawrence J. “Pete” Peterson, 78, of Wellsboro, PA passed away on December 6, 2022 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Pete was born April 19, 1944 in Philadelphia, the son of the late Charles and Alice (Biddle) Peterson. He is the husband of Diane N. (News) Peterson who survives.
Pete worked as an Independent Contractor and was a very skilled Stone Mason. Pete loved the outdoors, he enjoyed hunting, bike riding, cross country skiing, and playing the guitar. He was a member of the Susquehannock Trail Club and enjoyed travelling, highlighted by his trip to Alaska.
In addition to his wife, Pete is survived by three children, Krista (Matt Sampson) Peterson of Wellsboro; Lars Peterson of Trafford; and Erika Peterson of Wellsboro; and two sisters, Debbie Bartlett and Penelope Simpson both of Lansdale.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects Wednesday December 14, 2022 from 6-8 pm at the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main St., Wellsboro, PA 16901.
In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorial contributions in Pete’s name be made to the American Cancer Society-Tioga County Chapter, 1948 E. 3rd St., Williamsport, PA 17701. To share a memory or condolence with his family, visit www.tusseymosher.com.
Joyce M. Bell, 90, of Shinglehouse, PA
“beloved mother, grandmother, and sister”
Joyce M. Bell, 90, of Shinglehouse, PA went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, in Sena Kean Manor, Smethport.
Born on Saturday, November 26, 1932 in Cross Fork, she was a daughter of Benjamin and Pauline Campbell Madison. On August 27, 1950 in Shinglehouse, she married Donald F. Bell, who passed away on December 20, 1996.
She graduated from Shinglehouse High School, Class of 1950. Joyce was employed for many years at the bank in Shinglehouse, having been there through many transitions of bank ownership. Her positions included being a customer service representative, loan secretary, community office manager, and was also the assistant vice president and community office manager for the Shinglehouse Office of Commonwealth Bank. The last entity she worked for was Northwest, where she retired as the bank manager.
Joyce was a member of the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church, where she served as choir director for many years as well as being involved in a multitude of church offices and activities throughout the years. She was a leader of the Women’s Circle One of the church and led many Bible studies. She was a member of the Maple Grove Cemetery Association, having served as secretary/treasurer for many years. She was also a member of the former Charles Cole Neighborhood Board in Shinglehouse. Joyce was a member of the former Shinglehouse Lion’s Club and was involved with the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts throughout the years with her children. She was a member of the Olean Chapter of the American Institute of Banking, a member of the Private Industry Council, and a former member of the IU9 Authority. Joyce was known for her quilting skills. She enjoyed singing, knitting and gardening.
Left to cherish her memory are four children, Steven R. (Cynthia) Bell of Shinglehouse, Ann L. (Jack) Getkin of Pittsburgh, Penny L. Bell of Denton, Texas, and Chris A. (Ann) Bell of Shinglehouse; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Betty Kemp of Conway, SC; and many nieces and nephews.
Joyce was predeceased by her parents and husband.
Family and friends may call from 10am to 11am on Saturday, December 10, 2022, at the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church, North Lincoln Street, Shinglehouse, where funeral services will follow at 11am with Pastor Preston Hutchins, Jr.,of the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church, and Pastor Clint Pearsall of the First Baptist Church, Shinglehouse, co-officiating. Burial will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Shinglehouse.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Joyce entrusted her care 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 Joyce, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Acting 101: Learn the Fundamentals of Acting
Calling all thespians! So you’ve never acted before but would love to? Come learn the essential skills needed to be on the stage. Even if you are not a novice, this is an excellent opportunity to refresh those skills and maybe learn something new to add to your repertoire, such as improvisation or different techniques. The local theatrical group, Potter-McKean Players, has plans to offer productions in the upcoming months. This course will teach you what you need to be ready for those auditions.
This 4-part course will be taught by local director Paul Herzig and actor Jared Empson, of Eliot Ness Fest fame. The classes will take place on Tuesdays, January 10 – January 31, 2023 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Education Council’s Coudersport office. The cost of the course is $25 per person. Class size is limited, so register today at www.pottercountyedcouncil.org or call (814) 274-4877.
Roulette Township MEETING CHANGE
***MEETING CHANGE***
The Roulette Township Supervisors monthly meeting has been re-scheduled to Monday, December 19 at 6 pm in the Township Office.
The meeting will be broadcast on Facebook Live and the public is welcome to attend.
