Immediate Openings Available at Seneca Highlands IU9
Early Intervention Paraeducator Positions Available in Bradford and Coudersport
Do you want to have a positive impact on young children? Have you thought about working in the field of education? Come join our team! The Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit Nine Early Intervention Preschool Program is looking for both part-time and substitute paraeducators to work in our preschool classrooms. We currently have part-time openings in Bradford, Coudersport, and Kersey. These positions involve supporting preschool students in a special education setting as well as assisting the teacher in preparing materials necessary for classroom instruction. A high school diploma or its equivalent is required. If you would like more information, please contact Amy Jacob, supervisor of early intervention, at (814) 887-5512, ext. 305.
Teacher of the Visually Impaired: Itinerant, Full-time, 190-day position available immediately. Must have appropriate certification. Send letter of interest, resume, PA standard application, transcripts, Acts 34, 114, and 151 clearance, and references to Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands IU9, 119 S. Mechanic St., Smethport, PA 16749. EOE
Job Coach: Full-time position. Assist students in learning on-the-job skills at job sites in Potter County. Hours available during and beyond a typical school day. Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree or Associates Degree with related experience. Send letter of interest, application (www.iu9.org), current resume, copy of certification, references, Act 34, 114, and 151 to Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic St., Smethport, PA 16749, svossler@iu9.org EOE
190-day position. PA state occupational therapist license required. Responsibilities may include screenings, evaluations, team collaboration, IEP development, and other duties. Send letter of interest, resume, application, transcripts, and three current letters of reference and clearances to svossler@iu9.org or mail to: Seneca Highlands IU9, Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 EOE
Paraeducator, Full-Time – Coudersport High School Life Skills
Requirement: High school diploma; Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to svossler@iu9.org or mail to Seneca Highlands IU9, Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512, ext. 133 EOE
Paraeducator: Part-Time – Learning Support – Coudersport High School
Part time in Coudersport; Requirement: High school diploma; Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to svossler@iu9.org or mail to Seneca Highlands IU9, Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512, ext. 133 EOE
Paraeducator, Part-Time – Life Skills Classroom – Cameron County Elementary School
Position available in Woodland Elementary, Emporium. Requirement: High school diploma. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to svossler@iu9.org or mail to Seneca Highlands IU9, Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512, ext. 133 EOE
Part-Time Paraeducator – Oswayo Valley Elementary (2)
Requirement: High school diploma; Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to svossler@iu9.org or mail to Seneca Highlands IU9, Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512, ext. 133 EOE
Part-Time Paraprofessional – Oswayo Valley Elementary School
Requirement: High school diploma; Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to svossler@iu9.org or mail to: Seneca Highlands IU9, Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 EOE
Full-time position to provide support and services within our area school districts. Services may include evaluations, observations, counseling, and training. School psychologist certification required.
Excellent benefit package, including employer student loan contribution of up to $5,250 per year, available. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Julia Anderson, Director of Special Education Services, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 South Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749, (814) 887-5512 EOE
Speech Pathologist, Substitute
Requires Pennsylvania license and CCC’s. Consideration will be given to graduates in their CFY year. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Julia Anderson, Director of Special Education Services
Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 South Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749
(814) 887-5512 EOE
Qualifications are:
· Pennsylvania state registered with Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) or
· Holds a minimum on educational interpreting performance assessment (EIPA) of 3.5 or higher
Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Julia Anderson, Director of Special Education Services
Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 South Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749
(814) 887-5512 EOE
Needed for the first semester of the 2022–2023 school year.
Requires: Valid PT or PTA license. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Julia Anderson, Director of Special Education Services, Seneca Highlands IU9, 119 South Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512 EOE
Requirement: High school diploma; Send application, letter of interest, Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to svossler@iu9.org or mail to: Seneca Highlands IU9, Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512 ext. 133; EOE
Substitute Classroom Teachers, Classroom Aides, and Transportation Aides
Immediate openings for day-to-day positions supporting students and classrooms in Potter, Cameron, McKean, and Elk Counties. Training provided. Requires teaching certificate or bachelor’s degree (substitute teacher)/high school diploma (aide). Updated rates: $135/day for substitute teachers and $75/day for substitute aides – plus mileage.
Individuals holding the following qualifications may now serve as substitute teachers:
· Bachelor’s degree
· 60 college credits and 25 years old or older
· Student currently enrolled in a teacher program and has 60 completed credits
· Retired teacher
Individuals holding a high school diploma may serve as classroom aides.
Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to svossler@iu9.org or mail to: Seneca Highlands IU9, Sandy Vossler, Human Resources, 119 S. Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 EOE
Kane Man Sentenced Following Conviction for Megan’s Law Violation
District Attorney Stephanie L. Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that the Kane man convicted last month for Failing to Provide Accurate Registration Information as required under the law formerly known as Megan’s Law (second offense) has been sentenced.
During a sentencing hearing held at the McKean County Courthouse on January 12, 2023, Albert Thielges was sentenced by the Judge to state incarceration for a period of 72 months – 144 months and one year of consecutive probation.
Assistant District Attorney Sarah Dufresne prosecuted the case. Officer Derrick Snyder of the Kane Borough Police Department investigated the case.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that, following a jury trial on December 5, 2022 at the McKean County Courthouse, Albert Thielges, previously of Kane, was convicted of Failing to Provide Accurate Registration Information as a Transient as required under the law formerly known as Megan’s Law (Felony 1).
The law formerly known as Megan’s Law, now known as the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), requires those convicted of certain offenses to register their address or other area where the offender frequents. Thielges was found to provide the address of a residence in Kane that had been torn down previously.
Officer Derrick Snyder of the Kane Borough Police Department investigated the case. Assistant District Attorney Sarah Dufresne prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth. The Judge scheduled sentencing for January 12, 2023 at 10 a.m.
Marsha OSTRANDER, 67, of Coudersport, PA, formerly of Shinglehouse, Ulysses, and Bradford, PA.
Marsha OSTRANDER, 67, of Coudersport, PA, formerly of Shinglehouse, Ulysses, and Bradford, died Thursday, January 12, 2023 in UPMC Cole, Coudersport.
Born January 31, 1955, in Bradford, she was the daughter of Clendon Byron and Evelyn Doris Spignard Ostrander.
Surviving are: friend and former caregiver, Viola Hathaway of Shinglehouse; a brother, Blair Ostrander of Smethport; a sister, Christine (John) Robare of Altamonte, FL; nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her longtime fiancé, Robert C. Ramsey; and two brothers, Dale Alan Ostrander and Clinton L. Ostrander. Services will be private. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Kathryn “Kay” Kinkead, 86, of German Settlement Road, Ridgway, PA.
Kathryn “Kay” Kinkead, 86, of German Settlement Road, died on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at Penn Highlands Dubois after a brief illness.
She was born on September 19, 1936, in Ridgway, a daughter of the late Lucille Walizer Harbridge Thomas and Charles H. Harbridge.
On July 29, 1955, she married Samuel L. Kinkead in a double wedding ceremony with her twin sister, Karolyn (Richard) Rhodes in Smethport, PA.
She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church where she served in the church choir for over 60 years, on church council, the financial secretary for several years, and was a Sunday school teacher for over 20 years. Kay was a volunteer at the Elk County Historical Society for several years, loving her work as a researcher. She served as president of the Ridgway Cemetery Associating. She worked at the original Ridgway National Bank, which later became Marine Bank and then PNC Bank before retiring in 1994.
In addition to her husband of 67 years, she is survived by 2 children: Diane Stenta and her husband Ron of Ridgway, Douglas Kinkead and his wife Linda of Ridgway, and David Kinkead and his wife Karen of NC, 3 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her twin sister, Karolyn Rhodes, sister, Sara Denning, and a son Donald at birth.
A Memorial Service for Kathryn Kinkead will be celebrated on Monday, January, 16, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 19 S. Broad Street, Ridgway, PA 15853, with. Rev. Matthew Williams as celebrant.
Family and friends will be received on Monday from 12:00 PM until the time of services.
Burial will follow at Thayer Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to Trinity United Methodist Church or Elk County Historical Society.
Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com
Patricia Ann Orcutt, 80, of Warren, PA
Patricia Ann Orcutt, 80, of Warren, PA, passed away on Thursday, January 12, 2023, in Kinzua Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Warren, PA, on June 9, 1942, the daughter of the late Bernard and Leona Briggs. Pat resided in Warren all of her life and was a graduate of Warren High School. She worked and retired from Blair in Warren and also worked for G.G. Green. She married Edward Orcutt Sr. and he preceded her in death.
She is survived by her three loving children; Ed Orcutt and wife, Sue, of Russell, Brenda Fasciano and husband, Jerry, of Russell, and Tanya Powley and husband, Steve, of Warren; grandchildren; Amber Burke and husband, Clayton, Braiden Blair, Bryce Blair; step grandchildren; Noah Powley, Cy Powley, and Gregory Blair; her companion, George Belin, of Warren; and one brother, Bob Briggs.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by one infant son,Jeffrey Lee Orcutt; brothers; Clarence Briggs and Glen Briggs; sisters; Jeanette Messinger and Cora Leach.
Friends may call the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East Street Warren, PA from 2:00 to 3:00 pm on Sunday, January 15, 2023. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 pm in the funeral home. Burial will be held in Oakland Cemetery, Warren, PA. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, please visit cff.org. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
Mary Jane Chiodo, 90, of Warren, PA.
Mary Jane Chiodo, 90, of Warren, passed away on Thursday January 12, 2023 in the Rouse Home surrounded by her loving family.
Friends may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East St. Warren, PA on Monday January 16, 2023 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday January 17, 2023 at 1:00 pm in St. Joseph R. C. Church 600 Pennsylvania Ave West, Warren, with the Rev. Richard Tomasone, pastor presiding.
A complete obituary will be published when it’s available.
David A. Fair, 71, of Port Allegany, PA.
David A. Fair, 71, of Port Allegany, passed away Thursday (January 12, 2023) at UPMC-Cole, Coudersport.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday (Jan. 17, 2023) from 2-4 and 6-8PM at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc., 105 Main St., Port Allegany, where funeral services will be held Wed. (Jan. 18, 2023) at 11 AM with the Rev. J.T. Madison, officiating. Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery, Port Allegany.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany. A full obituary will be in Tuesday
Mark F. Cuneo, 54, of 756 Washington Street, St. Marys and formerly of Erie,
Mark F. Cuneo, 54, of 756 Washington Street, St. Marys and formerly of Erie, passed away Thursday, January 12, 2023 at Penn Highlands DuBois after a brief illness.
He was born June 13, 1968 in St. Marys, son of the late, Tom Cuneo and Grace Francis Covac, who survives. He was a lifelong resident of the area before moving to Erie and a graduate of St. Marys Area High School, Class of 1988.
Along with his loving mother Grace, Mark is survived his brother, Karl Cuneo (Cheryl) of St. Marys; his step-father, Buck Covac; step-brother, Eric Covac (Leeann); nephews: Jack Cuneo and Noah Zeches; aunts and uncles: Robert Francis (Holly), Charlotte Garvelli (Joe), Jim Francis (Joy), John Francis (Terry), Susan Herzing (Dan), and Wanda Schneider (Tim); and his special friend, Leonard Reinhart, whose friendship he cherished.
Along with his father, Mark was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Mark and Vi Francis and his paternal grandparents, James and Wanda Cuneo.
Mark always enjoyed the company of other people and would welcome a conversation at any moment. He was one of the first to participate and compete in the Special Olympics, found joy in the music of Kenny Rogers, and cheered on the Dallas Cowboys.
Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service in the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home at 11:00 AM on Thursday, January 19, 2023 with the Rev. Thomas More Sikora, OSB, celebrating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation will be held at the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on January 19, 2023 from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Elk/Cameron County Special Olympics, 412 Brusselles Street, St. Marys, PA 15857.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home. Online condolences may be offered at www.lynch-radkowski.com.
Joe Homer VanDergrift, age 64, of Covington, PA
Joe Homer VanDergrift, age 64, of Covington, PA, died on Thursday, January 12, 2023.
He was born on March 29, 1958 in Wellsboro, PA, a son of the late Homer and Jayne (Culver) VanDergrift. He served in the US Army and was married for 42 years to Nancy A. (Youngs) VanDergrift. Joe was a heavy equipment operator for many years and enjoyed woodworking, camping, antique tractors, helping kids with their barn projects and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife: Nancy VanDergrift of Covington, PA, daughter: Amanda (Dale) Graves of Little Marsh, PA, brothers: Newell VanDergrift of TX, John (Jodi) VanDergrift of Wellsboro, PA, Jim (Lucille) VanDergrift of Mansfield, PA, brothers-in-law: Rick Youngs (Lisa) of Covington, PA, Hank (Susie) Youngs of Wellsboro, PA sister-in-law: Cindy (Lonnie Cook of Paint Rock, TX, grandchildren: Joemer Cummings, Ashlyn Cummings, Averie Cummings, Adrianna Cummings, Maverick Graves, Makalah Graves, several nieces, nephews and cousins and a great friend: Rick Ives.
He was predeceased by a daughter: Autumn Cummings, and his mother and father-in-law: Dick and Clara Youngs. Visitation and refreshments will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2023 from 1 to 2 pm at the Little Marsh Fire Hall.
A memorial service will follow at 2:00 pm with Pastor Ed Siddle officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. www.carletonfh.com Wellsboro, PA. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cowanesque FFA Chapter, 51 Northfork Rd., Westfield, PA 16950.
Republican Leader Bryan Cutler Issues Statement on Commonwealth Court Ruling
HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania House Republican Leader Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) issued the following statement Friday on the Commonwealth Court order in Cutler v. Chapman:
“Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court today decided to ignore basic math and prior law in ordering all three of these elections be held together on Feb. 7.
“Instead of resolving a dispute where the answer was self-evident based on the numbers, the court took the path of least resistance and thereby weakened the foundations of our republic and faith in the rule of law.
“This case was about who can exercise certain functions based upon simple numbers. House Republicans remained steadfast and consistent in our desire to hold elections and fill these seats in the normal course of business, and not through illegitimate loopholes.”
Bradford Man Tried To Burn Apartment
On January 12th, 2023 at approximately 0109 hrs City of Bradford Police Department and Fire Department responded to 2 Bushnell Street apartment 425 for a reported ruptured gas line and possible fire.
Officers responded and had to force entry where they found a ruptured gas line and several spots through out the apartment that had visibly been set on fire.
Officers located Raymond Allen inside the apartment and detained him. Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshalls were called to the scene to conduct a joint investigation. It was determined that Raymond Allen had intentionally tried to set fire to his apartment by trying to light flammable materials and rupturing a gas line.
City Officers charged Raymond Allen with Arson, Causing or Risking a Catastrophe, Reckless Endangerment, and Criminal Mischief. Magistrate Luther arraigned Allen on the charges and he was remanded to McKean County Jail on $100.000 bond. Preliminary hearings are set in the matter.
Charles Perry Smith, 87, Olean, NY
Charles Perry Smith, 87, Olean, NY, husband of Marcella May Douglas-Rakocy Smith, passed away at Olean General Hospital on January 9, 2023.
Although Chuck and Marcella were only married 23 years, they enjoyed their life together with their families.
Chuck was born Sept 30, 1935, at Franklin, PA, the son of Charles P. and Helen (Kristyak) Smith. Surviving are two sisters, LouAnn Fowler of Loveland, CO and Wanda Paxton of Valrico, FL. His oldest sister, Helen, predeceased him.
Chuck graduated from Lafayette High School, Lafayette, CO. His father was a shoemaker, and Chuck worked during his teen years, helping to repair shoes.
Chuck was married first to Evelyn Schmactenberger and they welcomed their daughter, Dainel and son, Charles to their family.
Later, Chuck married Ruth Ann Nolan and adopted her two children, Susan (Joseph) McCleaf and Jodie (Smith) LaRue at the same time they welcomed an adopted son, Devin.
Chuck moved his family to Florida in 1964, where he worked at various jobs until starting his own business installing blinds in many new apartment houses, hospitals, and hotels. He also started a drapery and upholstery business along with his wife and daughters, Jodie and Susan.
Chuck was a very active member of the Rotary Club in Florida and he and his wife were also very successful in the sale of Amway.
His work life was cut short because he was hit by a car while crossing a mall parking lot, which damaged his knees. He moved his family from Florida to Portville, NY in 1991 and built a beautiful home out of a barn that was on property he owned.
Chuck is survived by his daughter, Susan (Joseph) McCleaf and a son, Devin Smith in Florida. His 2nd loving family were Marcella’s daughters: Theresa (Emmett) Morgan, Mt. Pleasant, SC, Ann Rakocy (Dave Moyer), Frostproof, FL and Suzanne (Thomas) Strait, Duke Center, PA. Also surviving are 3 grandchildren that Chuck and Marcella raised: Cole (Amber) Davis, Portville, NY, Cassie (Nikolas) Tascone, Lynchburg, VA, and Lacey (Larry) Cook, Olean, NY. Many other grandchildren and great grandchildren survive Chuck.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1313 E. State Street, Olean. A service will be held on Saturday (January 28, 2023) at 1pm at the Duke Center United Methodist Church. Officiants will be Rev. Dan Todd, Pastor of Hillside Wesleyan Church and Rev. Beth Rosler, Pastor of Duke Center United Methodist Church.
Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery, Smethport, PA at the convenience of the family.
Capitol Update By Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint)
 Facebook Website Bio Latest News State Forms Photo Gallery Contact Capitol Update Friday, January 13, 2023 The latest news from the State Capitol You are welcome to contact me through this link. House GOP Ready to Work  Lawmakers traveled to Harrisburg this week in response to the governor’s call for a special session to address a proposed constitutional amendment to help provide justice to victims of child sexual abuse. But thanks to the members of his own party, we didn’t get anywhere.This proposal has been passed by the General Assembly multiple times but never made it to the voters as a ballot question because the Wolf administration failed to properly advertise it. The governor called us into this special session to clean up his mess, only to have his fellow Democrats obstruct action. After repeated delays, no votes were taken Monday and newly elected Speaker Mark Rozzi canceled the remaining session days for the week. We cannot proceed with regular session or special session without operating rules. House Republicans have a draft set of rules that incorporate feedback from both parties. We have at least 101 votes to pass those rules, but we were never given the opportunity to hold the vote. We have important work to do, not only to help victims of child sexual abuse but also to boost our economy, address the causes and impacts of inflation, advance better job opportunities, and educate our students for the jobs of the future, among other things. Call for Projects! The North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission is inviting organizations across its six-county service area – including Cameron, McKean and Potter counties – to submit projects that may benefit from assistance. Completing North Central’s online Project Intake form is the first step for local officials to pursue project funding and assistance from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and other state and federal partners. This effort is part of the commission’s New Community Capacity Program designed to support local communities with free grant writing and other technical assistance. Click here to submit your project idea. For more information, contact Elise Grovanz at egrovanz@ncentral.com or 814-773-3162. Enter Now for Litter Hawk Youth Award Program  |
| Submissions are now being accepted for the Litter Hawk Youth Award Program, a recognition program for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Kids can participate individually or as part of a lesson initiated by schools, home-schools, Scout troops, 4-H clubs, environmental clubs or other organized groups. In response to Pennsylvania’s new anti-littering education campaign, PA Fights Dirty: Every Litter Bit Matters, the theme this year is: Show Us How Every Litter Bit Matters to You. Projects include: • Kindergarten through fourth grade – submission of a poster. • Fifth and sixth grades – submission of an essay or video. Two entries will be selected as winners in each grade level. First place will receive a $50 gift card. First runner-up will receive a $25 gift card. All participants will be recognized with certificates. The deadline to participate is Jan. 31. Winners will be announced in April in time for Earth Day celebrations. The Litter Hawk Youth Award program was created with funding provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Find more information and an online entry form here. |
| Better Tax Benefits for PA 529, PA ABLE Savings Programs  The tax benefits for contributing to PA 529 and PA ABLE accounts are getting better in 2023, as higher Pennsylvania state Personal Income Tax deductions are now in place for both programs.PA 529 account owners may deduct up to $17,000 (previously $16,000) of contributions to their accounts, or $34,000 (previously $32,000) for couples filing jointly, provided both spouses have at least $17,000 of income. The PA state income tax deduction for 529 contributions is available to any PA taxpayer, making gift contributions an attractive benefit for family members or friends. PA ABLE account owners will also be able to deduct up to $17,000 (previously $16,000) for contributions to their accounts. The PA 529 College and Career Savings Program is designed to help PA families steadily and strategically save for future educational expenses, while the PA ABLE Savings Program is a tax-free way for Pennsylvanians to save for a wide range of disability-related expenses while maintaining government disability benefits. To learn more about PA 529, visit www.pa529.com or call 800-440-4000. To learn more about PA ABLE, visit www.paable.gov or call 855-529-2253. |
| PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday  |
All PennDOT driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, Jan. 14, through Monday, Jan. 16, in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.
Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.pa.gov.
Linda J. Smith, 72, of 526 Armory Road, St. Marys, PA.
Linda J. Smith, 72, of 526 Armory Road, St. Marys, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, January 12, 2023, at her residence.
She was born April 23, 1950, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Roland and Lucille Kraus Bush. Linda was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of St. Marys High School, Class of 1968. She was an employee of the former E & G Auto Parts and a retired employee of Abbott Furnace.
On June 7, 2008, at the Fox Township Sportsmen’s Club, Linda married Douglas W. Smith, who survives.
Also surviving is her daughter, Valerie Schauer (Pat) of Kersey; seven grandchildren: Alex, Rachel, Andrea, Jeremy, Cole, Ryan, and Jakob; seven great-grandchildren; three sisters: Caroline Wegemer (Jude) of Force, Judy Shuttleworth (Bob) of Kersey, and Doris Gaton (Ed) of Ohio; three brothers: Ronald Bush (LaVonne) of California, Robert Bush of St. Marys, and Dennis Bush (Mary Ann) of St. Marys; and by many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Linda was preceded in death by her daughter, Robin Meyer, who passed away December 3, 2010; a sister, Mary Erich; and by two brothers: Gerald and Paul Bush.
Linda was a member of the First United Methodist Church, where she was an active volunteer for the Bowls of Love and was committed to her Bible studies. She was a caring person who had a fondness for elephants. Above everything, she cherished her time with her grandchildren every chance she could get.
A funeral service will be held in the First United Methodist Church on Monday, January 16, 2023, at 10:00 AM, with the Rev. Sang Hak Lee, Pastor, officiating.
Visitation will be held in the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Sunday, January 15, 2023, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Bowls of Love, First United Methodist Church, 140 North St. Marys Street, St. Marys, PA 15857.
Online condolences may be offered at www.lynch-radkowski.com.
Marsha OSTRANDER, 67, of Coudersport, PA, formerly of Shinglehouse, Ulysses, and Bradford, PA.
Marsha OSTRANDER, 67, of Coudersport, PA, formerly of Shinglehouse, Ulysses, and Bradford, died Thursday, January 12, 2023 in UPMC Cole, Coudersport. A complete obituary will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Think About It
Where Are You?
By
B.J. Knefley
Where are you? How would you answer that question? Are you where you want to be in life? In your relationships? In your job? How about spiritually, are you where you want to be? Have you ever taken the time to do an inventory about where you are? It can be refreshing and scary all at once.
God asked Adam where he was, not because God didn’t know, but He asked because He wanted Adam to know where he was. Sometimes we need to be aware of where we are so that we can make choices and decisions as to what to do next. Adam’s response was “I heard you, so I hid, I was afraid because I was naked”. He accurately described his condition. I wonder if we would have? To do so would be very revealing and vulnerable. Many don’t want to go there. But change often means that we must recognize where we are because that is the starting point for where we want to be. If we can’t acknowledge where we are, how can we move forward towards the next step.
Adam’s response that he was afraid is a common problem for many. Fear keeps them stuck in what they know, what’s familiar. Like Adam we hide behind what’s familiar. Old habits, behaviors and belief systems fuel our fear and cripple our advancements. Nakedness becomes our inability to venture out into the unknown. Nakedness in the sense that we lack the skills and abilities to change. Or at least we think we can’t. But that becomes another excuse for our hiding behind what our experiences have told us to fear. And so, paralyzed by fear and our inability to be prepared we hide behind what we know. Sad really, because part of change happens when we admit where we are. Ironically, the first step of any twelve-step program is admitting where one is at. Why do we find that so difficult? Why are we afraid? Is it because we have learned helplessness? Could it be that we have programed ourselves into a corner with no way out? Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Sounds like a good starting point. Think about it.
McKean County Is Seeking A Chief Clerk
MCKEAN COUNTY CHIEF CLERK
McKean County is seeking qualified and highly motivated applicants to perform the duties of Chief Clerk. The Chief Clerk will provide clerical and administrative support to the Commissioners by supervising the activities of the County Commissioners Office on a daily basis.
Responsibilities include:
- Supervise operations of Commissioner’s office, including preparation for meetings and minutes.
- Prepare advertising, bidding projects, correspondence as required.
- Monitor grants.
- Maintain accounting records and prepare a schedule of receipts for County audits.
- Maintain all lease agreements for County.
- Directs and coordinates County’s property, casualty, and liability insurance policies, and monitors the status and payment of claims.
- Distribute property tax levy forms to municipalities.
- Track all agreements and contracts.
- Distribute ethics and financial statements to all County employees and elected officials.
- Act as the County’s Right to Know Officer and Public Information Officer.
- Reviews correspondence, reports, news sources or publications and informs Commissioners of subsequent development and/or problems.
- Collects, interprets, analyzes and summarizes information to be used as a basis for the executive actions of the Commissioners.
- Communicates with County officials, offices, news media and general public on behalf of the Board of Commissioners.
- Directs and coordinates all matters of importance for the Commissioners.
- Multiple other duties as assigned.
Requirements include:
- Must possess highly developed communication and interpersonal skills and have the ability to use these skills both written and orally in a public setting as well as to promote the understanding of complex issues among the Commissioners.
- Must be a self-starter with integrity, initiative, and problem-solving skills.
- Must make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such actions.
- Ability to multi-task with a high degree of accuracy.
- Executes and enforces all policies, ordinances, regulations, and operational matters under the leadership of the Board of Commissioners in order to comply with statutory and governmental laws, and to provide the most effective and efficient services to constituents.
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
Qualifications include:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience and education preferred.
- Public and/or private sector senior management experience preferred.
Please forward a Resume and County application to: Michele Jubon, Human Resources Director, McKean County Courthouse, 500 West Main Street, Smethport, PA 16749 or emailing it to: mmjubon@mckeancountypa.org by January 17, 2023. We are an equal opportunity employer, M/F/D/V.
Bradford Man Sentenced for Aggravated Assault
District Attorney Stephanie L. Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that Armando Aponte, of Bradford, was sentenced to a period of incarceration for Aggravated Assault and Terroristic Threats against a woman during a sentencing hearing held today at the McKean County Courthouse.
On January 25, 2022, Bradford City Police were dispatched to the Bradford Regional Medical Center for a report of an assault on a female. The injuries to the woman required she be sent to an out-of-area medical center for treatment. Aponte was identified as the perpetrator.
Bradford Officer Kolin Strawcutter investigated the case.
The Judge sentenced Aponte to state prison for a period of 90 months to 180 months and 2 years consecutive probation as well as necessary treatment, restitution for medical expenses due to the assault, and other terms.
Victims of domestic violence are encouraged to call 911 and the YWCA, who can provide services to victims.
Richard L. HRIBAR, 83, of Coudersport, PA
Richard L. HRIBAR, 83, of Coudersport, PA, died Thursday, December 29, 2022.
Friends may call at Coudersport Alliance Church, 7 Alliance Ave., Coudersport on Saturday, January 14, 2023 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with a Memorial Service following at 11:00 AM. Rev. Josh Dean will officiate. Memorials may be made to God’s Country Chapter Trout Unlimited (memo line—Project Healing Waters), P.O. Box 72, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Lucille (Shumway) Bailey, 101 of Wellsboro, PA.
Lucille (Shumway) Bailey, 101 of Wellsboro, passed away Wednesday January 11, 2023 at UPMC Soldiers and Sailors in Wellsboro. She was born May 23, 1921 at home in Wellsboro, to Ross and Fannie (Bellinger) Shumway. She graduated from Wellsboro High School in 1939, and the Arnot Ogden School of Nursing in 1942. Lucille worked for more than forty years as an RN at Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro, many of them as the nursing supervisor. Lucille was a lifelong resident of Wellsboro and had a love of animals that was unsurpassed, she would take in any stray that needed her. She was an avid reader and thoroughly enjoyed her cats.
Lucille is survived by her son: James (Agnes) Bailey of Wellsboro; a daughter: Judy (Gordon) Jones of Canton, MI; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a niece: Barb (Ron) Weller of Wellsboro; a nephew: Tom (Cindy) Davies, Jr. of Washington; and her faithful cats: Hobo, Big Eyes, and Fuzzy. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother: Waldo Shumway, and a sister: Dorothy Davies.
Her family has entrusted her arrangements to the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home 139 Main Street Wellsboro, PA 16901, and in accordance with her wishes there will be no funeral. She will be interred in the Wellsboro Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in her memory are encouraged to remember the Second Chance Animal Sanctuary 725 Gee Rd, Tioga, PA 16946. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit www.tusseymosher.com.
Duane A. Doan, age 88, of Knoxville, PA
Duane A. Doan, age 88, of Knoxville, PA passed away on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at UPMC Wellsboro.
Born April 11, 1934 in Knoxville, he was the son and only child of the late Paul and Aletha (Daniels) Doan. He married Betty Ann (Kemp) on April 30, 1953. They spent almost 60 years together until her passing on April 15, 2013.
Duane worked as a mechanic for many years for Frank Chevrolet in Elkland, and then he and Orman Surina bought the business and were co-owners of D & S Chevrolet for many years until they retired. Duane was a Pennsylvania Deputy Game Warden for over 30 years. He had many interests throughout his life, such as, an avid Amateur Radio operator, and working with electronics. He loved fixing any kind of electronics, and still did up until he was too ill to do it.
In his younger days he loved fishing (especially fly fishing), boating and tent camping; in his later years, he loved baking sugar cookies and giving them to everyone, and he also had a love for his pets. Most importantly he loved spending time with family.
He is survived by his daughters, Kathy (Randy) Morgan of Elkland, Linda (Doug) Skinner of Westfield, Wendy (Mike) Kimble of Elkland and Jodie (Jason) Dibble of Knoxville; nephew, Marty (Lisa) Kemp of Salisbury, PA (Duane & Betty helped raise Marty in his younger years); his grandchildren, Ryan (April) Morgan of Elkland, Kelly (Ben) Walker of Kentucky, Dan (Brandi) Skinner of Montana, Leah (Shane) Fuller of Middlebury Center, Christopher (Laura) Kimble of Arizona, John (Katie) Kimble of New Jersey, Logan Dibble of Knoxville and Avery Ann Dibble of Knoxville; 15 great grandchildren; cousin, Elva (Dave) Owlett of Almond, NY; nieces, nephews, many cousins and his close friend Roberta Hackett of Nelson.
A memorial service will be held at the Osceola Presbyterian Church, Osceola, PA on Monday, January 16, 2023 at 2:00 PM with Rev. Kermit Shrawder officiating.
Memorial donations may be made in Duane’s honor to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are in care of Kenyon Funeral Home, Elkland. www.kenyonfuneralhome.com.
Thomas R. Snow, 81, of Clarendon, PA
Thomas R. Snow, 81, of Clarendon, PA, died on January 10, 2023, in his home after an extended illness.
He was born October 28, 1941, in Warren, OH., to the late Maynard and Florence Janes Snow. Tom has resided in Warren since 1962 and was formerly of Kinzua, PA.
He was a 1959 graduate of Warren High School and had served with the U.S. Army as a Specialist 4 from 1959 until 1962. He was employed as a machine operator with the former National Forge Company for 38 years, retiring in June, 2000. He was also employed part time with TWAC as a bus driver. He was a member of the Warren American Legion Post 135, and the Warren Eagles Aerie. Tom was an avid hunter, hiker, enjoyed snow shoeing, cross country skiing and riding bicycles.
He is survived by 2 sons, Michael Snow, wife, Petra of Port Orchard, WA., Mark Snow and girlfriend Trista Wilcox of Warren, PA; and 6 Grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy “Dottie” Hoover Snow whom he married October 24, 1964 at St. Callistus R.C. Church, Kane, PA., who died June 12, 2017.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Trista Wilcox for her loving care, and support she provided to Tom in his final days.
Friends may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East St. Warren, PA on Saturday, January 14, 2023, from 10:00 to 11:00 am. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am in the funeral home with the Rev. Jeffrey Ewing, officiating. Interment will be in Warren County Memorial Park at a later date.
Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Paws Along the River, 212 Elm Street, Warren, PA. 16365. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com