Patricia A. “Pat” Richnafsky, 90, of 22 S. Cherry St., Emporium, PA
Patricia A. “Pat” Richnafsky, 90, of 22 S. Cherry St., Emporium, PA passed away at Guy & Mary Felt Manor, Emporium, PA on Friday evening (November 11, 2022). She was born February 19, 1932 in Emporium, PA a daughter of the late James and Evelyn Fuller Russell. On May 2, 1959 in St. Mark Catholic Church she married the late Andrew Richnafsky.
Pat graduated from Emporium High School. Years ago she worked at GTE Sylvania and SEARS in Emporium. She was a member of St. Mark Catholic Church.
Pat is survived by a daughter, Stephanie Richnafsky Goodrich (Michael); son, John Richnafsky (Laure), both of Emporium; eight grandchildren: A. Marina, Cameron, Raven, Jessica, Jacqueline, Elizabeth, Andrew and Emily; eight great grandchildren: Henry, Lillian, Theodore, Ellie, Charlee, Spencer, Beau Russell Andrews, and Cole Wyatt Andrews; a brother, James E. Russell, Saegertown, PA.
In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by a sister, Enid Russell.
Visitation with Video Tribute will be at the Barnett Funeral Home, 207 E. 4th St., Emporium, PA on Thursday from 10:00 – 11:45 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial to be Celebrated at the St. Mark Catholic Church, 235 East Fourth Street, Emporium, PA at 12:00 PM with Rev. Paul S. Siebert, Pastor, as Celebrant.
Burial will be in the St. Mark Catholic Cemetery, Emporium, PA.
In lieu of flowers, consider donations to Cameron County Ambulance Association, 299 E. Second St., Emporium, PA 15834
BARNETT FUNERAL HOME, Inc. entrusted with arrangements.
Online Condolences may be placed at www.BarnettFuneralHome.net
Michael M. Priest, 68, of Clear Creek Rd., Emporium, PA
Michael M. Priest, 68, of Clear Creek Rd., Emporium, PA passed away at Embassy of Hearthside, State College, PA on Saturday evening (November 12, 2022). He was born February 21, 1954 in St. Marys, PA a son of the late Maynard and Ina Haight Priest. On March 8, 1980 in he married Deborah Wilson, who survives.
Mike graduated from Cameron County High School. He retired from GKN where he worked for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening.
In addition to Mikes wife Deborah, he is survived by two daughters, Carey Pifer (Josh), Keating Summit and Heather Priest, Emporium; three grandchildren: Calvin, Amber and Devin; one great grandson: James.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Sunni Priest and a niece, Samantha Ludwig.
There will be No Visitation. A Memorial Service will be held at the Barnett Funeral Home, 207 E. Fourth Street, Emporium, PA on Monday (November 21, 2022) at 11:00 AM with Pastor Greg Newkirk of the Cameron County Christian Center, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Barnett Funeral Home, 207 E. 4th St. Emporium, PA 15834 to help cover the final expenses.
Online Condolences may be placed at www.BarnettFuneralHome.net
BARNETT FUNERAL HOME, Inc. entrusted with arrangements.
Marcella Lou (Darrow) Williams, 82, of Wellsboro, PA
Marcella Lou (Darrow) Williams, 82, of Wellsboro, PA, passed away November 10, 2022, at her home in the presence of her beloved daughters.
She was born August 1940 in her family home in West Burlington, PA, the youngest daughter of Leon “Tink” and Beatrice (Beach) Darrow.
Marcella graduated from Troy High School, Class of 1957. She completed her education at Jean Summers Business School in Elmira, NY.
On September 4, 1961, Marcella married her high school sweetheart and best friend, Thomas V. Williams, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Troy, PA. They enjoyed 35 blessed years together until his passing in 1996.
Marcella worked at the Chemung County Sales Tax Office in Elmira. Later, she and Tom successfully owned and operated the United Farm Real Estate Agency in Wellsboro.
She was an incredible homemaker, seamstress, Girl Scout Leader, band parent, volunteer, devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Her passion was cooking, baking and serving family and friends with great love at her kitchen table where all were welcome. And, if we were lucky, she would delight us with her piano playing. Marcella demonstrated her generosity and genuine love through her tireless gift of self to others. She embodied unconditional love for which we are all grateful.
Marcella is survived by her daughters, Laura Williams of Elmira, NY, and Brenda (Steven) Brewster of Mansfield, PA, and two cherished grandsons, Bridger and Parker Brewster; brother-in-law, Robert F. Williams of Troy, PA, and sister-in-law, Doreen (Robert) Hurley of Dushore, PA; in addition to several treasured nieces and nephews, special friends and attentive caregivers.
Marcella was predeceased by her parents and husband, two sisters, Vera Harper, and Janet Stanton, and three brothers, Leon “Jake” Darrow, Carl Darrow, and Gerald Darrow.
Friends may call at Tussey Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA on Thursday, November 17, 2022, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a Prayer Vigil to be held at 7:30 p.m. The Celebrant will be Rev. Bryan Wright, Pastor. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Child Catholic Church in Mansfield on Friday, November 18, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. followed by a luncheon. Committal prayers and interment to follow at St. John’s Cemetery at 2:15 p.m.
The family will provide flowers. Donations in Marcella’s memory would be appreciated to the following organizations: Wellsboro Firemen’s Ambulance Association, 21 Crafton Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901, or St. John’s Cemetery Fund, c/o Judy Brozowski, 346 Brozowski Way, Troy, PA 16947. To share a memory or condolence with her family, visit www.tusseymosher.com.
Penn College men’s cross-country, basketball teams stand out
WildcatWeeklyHighlights2022-23
13Weekly2022-23/Nov. 7-13
Penn College men’s cross-country, basketball teams stand out
Men’s cross-country and basketball teams highlighted Pennsylvania College of Technology sports action last week as the cross-country team posted its best finish ever at a NCAA regional event and the basketball team is off to its best start this century.
FLASHBACK
Cross-country
“It gives us something to build on. It’s a start.”
Those were first-year coach Tom Leeser’s remarks after his men’s team had its highest finish ever in NCAA regional competition on Saturday — 25th — and freshman Mitchell Campbell, of Riegelsville, placed 70th in a field of 222, the highest individual finish to date for a Wildcat at regionals.
Previous Penn College bests were 27th for the men’s team in 2021 and 99th for Josh Velez, of Lewistown, in 2018. Read more……
Dusenburys Went Shopping For Christmas House Program
We went shopping today for the Gift of Memory program that benefits the Christmas House in Coudersport. We received monetary donations from several people to purchase gifts in memory of their loved ones. We went to Ollie’s in Olean, where we had a great time finding presents. We were able to purchase several additional gifts with our 15% off coupon!!! Please remember the deadline to donate is Friday, November 18. Any questions please call us at 814-697-6570.
…A SNOW SQUALL WILL AFFECT PARTS OF WARREN…MCKEAN…POTTER…AND
ELK COUNTIES…
National Weather Service State College PA
138 PM EST Sun Nov 13 2022
HAZARDS…A snow squall accompanied by winds of up to 30 MPH which
can rapidly reduce visibility to less than a quarter of a mile.
LOCATION AND MOVEMENT…At 136 PM EST, a snow squall was along a line
extending from near Olean to near Bradford to near Kane to near
Warren to Columbus and moving southeast at 20 MPH.
THIS SQUALL WILL BE NEAR…
Cyclone and Rew around 140 PM EST.
Ludlow around 145 PM EST.
Westline around 150 PM EST.
Wetmore, Kinzua Bridge State Park and Shinglehouse around 155 PM
EST.
Sheffield around 200 PM EST.
Kane around 205 PM EST.
This snow squall will impact State Route 6 and Route 219 over the
next hour.
SAFETY INFO… Use extra caution if you must travel into or through
this squall. Rapid changes in visibility and potentially slick roads
may lead to accidents.
Delay travel or get off the road as you see the snow squall
approaching. You’ll notice snow-obscured hills or wooded areas off
in the distance from the squall. If you can’t exit the road in time
and you’re entering the squall, use your emergency flashers as you
slow down to help gradually slow traffic behind you and prevent high
speed collisions at the onset of the squall.
PennDOT Urges Homeowners to Winterize Their Mailboxes
Montoursville, PA – As the winter season approaches, it is important that property owners make sure their mailbox is in the correct location to ensure the efficiency of both the mail service and the snow plowing operations. In addition, property owners should also inspect their mailbox to verify it has a strong support.
Mail carriers will make every effort to deliver the mail. However, if the mailbox is not accessible to the carrier due to snow build up, or if it is not properly located along the roadway, you may have to pick up your mail at the post office.
PennDOT allows property owners to place mailboxes within the limits of the legal right-of-way along state owned roadways out of respect for the U.S. Postal Service’s need to deliver the mail and the mailbox customer’s convenience of delivery. But because some mailboxes are located in the legal right-of-way, damages are the responsibility of the property owner.
Normally, a mailbox is placed as far from the shoulder of the roadway as the carrier can reach from a vehicle and the mailbox rests on a firm support, the box should be able to withstand the windrow of snow from the plowing operations. Be sure your mailbox has a strong support.
Suggestions/Recommendations
- Check your mailbox support often.
- Clear snow from in front and on the sides of the mailbox, disposing of it properly, not on the roadway.
- Consider using reflective tape or other material to make the mailbox easier to see during storms or dark hours.
- Questions regarding the proper location of your mailbox along the roadway can be directed to your local post office.
Property owners who have followed these tips in the past and have still experienced damaged mailboxes may want to consider a cantilever mailbox support that will “swing” a mailbox out of harm’s way. Plans for building the cantilever mailbox support can be obtained by visiting PennDOT’s winter web page at Winter Preparation (penndot.gov).
Marlene H. Agosti, 86, of 448 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA
Marlene H. Agosti, 86, of 448 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA passed away Saturday, November 12, 2022 following a brief illness at Penn Highlands Elk.
She was born November 29, 1935, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Erwin and Hedwig Kraft Laird, Sr. Marlene was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Central Catholic High School. She was a nurse’s aide at Andrew Kaul Memorial Hospital and worked at Sylvania.
On June 1, 1957, in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marlene married the late Louis J. Agosti, who preceded her in death on July 28, 2015.
She is survived by her son, Steven Agosti and his wife, Judy of St. Marys; her granddaughter, Chelsea Gregory and her husband Ben of St. Marys; and by her nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, Marlene was preceded in death by her sister, Shirley Evans; and by her brother, Erwin Laird, Jr. She was the last member of her immediate family.
She enjoyed gardening and all flowers, loved to color, and she took great joy in watching professional wrestling. Marlene absolutely loved her family and cherished each moment she shared with them.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service to be held at the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at 11:00 AM with the Rev. Ann Foor officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation will be held at the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Elk County Humane Society, 1029 E. Eschbach Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Online condolences may be offered at www.lynch-radkowski.com.
Patricia Louise Van Cise, 89, of Warren, PA
Patricia Louise Van Cise, 89, of Warren, PA., died on Thursday November 10, 2022, in her home after an extended illness.
She was born May 8, 1933, in Warren, PA. Patricia was the daughter of Edwin Miller and Vera Jean Hall Miller Holmberg. She has been a lifelong Warren area resident and a 1951 graduate of Warren High School. She had been employed with the former S.S. Kresge Company.
She enjoyed cooking and baking, loved farming, canning, square dancing, roller skating, bicycle riding, horseback riding, and married her high school sweetheart.
She is survived by her 4 children – Steven Van Cise and wife, Pat of Russell, PA., James E. Van Cise and wife, Nancy Maze of Cheyenne, WY., Sherry Lynn Klark and husband, Michael and
Susan L. Knapp and husband, Chanc all of Warren, PA. 8 grandchildren, Michael Rowan (Rhonda), Kelly Van Cise (Patty), Andrew Rowan (Julie), Carrie Zeigler (Kevin), Kristina Miles, April Chisholm (Mark), Brittany Reed (Kurtis), and Ben Hagberg; 11 great grandchildren, Brandon (Destiny), Abigail (Darin), Ashley (Steven), Matthew, Michael Jr., Camron, Alex, Jordan, Aiden, Micah, and Abel; four great grandchildren, Harper, Eloise, Alex, Jacob; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, William G. Van Cise whom she married November 18, 1951, at Calvary Baptist Church, Warren, PA., who died February 3, 2004; three sisters, Yvonne Lee, Phyllis Maze, and Claudia Holmberg.
Friends may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA., on Thursday November 17, 2022, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm. Funeral services will be held there at 1:00 pm in the funeral home with Pastor, Jon M. Swart, retired minister, officiating. Interment will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Russell, PA.
Those wishing to place memorials may do so through, The Alzheimer Association at www.alz.org/donate. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
Alfred A. Citro, 88, of Warren, PA, formerly of Wayne, New Jersey
Alfred A. Citro, 88, of Warren, PA, formerly of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away on Friday November 11, 2022, in Kinzua Healthcare and Rehab Center in Warren.
He was born in Patterson, New Jersey on April 26, 1934, the son of the late Anthony A. and Margaret Martin Citro. Alfred graduated from Pompton Lakes High School Class of 1952. After high school, Alfred enlisted with the U.S. Army serving from 1952-1956 during the Korean War, he worked as a civilian contractor with the U.S. Strategic Air Command. After his time in the service Alfred worked for NASA, and later owned and operated B&D Enterprises, in Warren from 1974 to his retirement. Alfred married Sally R. Keneske on Sept 26th, 1960, in California and they spent 62 wonderful years raising a family together.
Alfred was a member at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Warren. He loved garage sales, spending time with his family and friends, and had a love for cars especially Porsches.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Sally R. Citro; two children, Cary C. Citro of Warren, and Amy Lehman of Wayne, NJ; four grandchildren, Anthony Citro of Arlington, VA, Cecilia Citro of Warren, PA, Steffan Peterson and Sophia Peterson of Wayne, NJ.
In addition to his parents Alfred was preceded in death by his sister Marjorie “Babe” Citro.
Friends may call the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East Street Warren, PA, on Monday November 14, 2022, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday November 15, 2022, at 11:00 am in St. John’s Lutheran Church, 200 Pleasant Dr. Warren, PA, with the Rev. Jeff Ewing, pastor, officiating. Burial and military honors will be held in Mt. Tabor Cemetery, Kane.
E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
Ronald Joseph Massa, 93, of Warren, PA
Ronald Joseph Massa, 93, of Warren, PA, passed away on Saturday November 12, 2022, in the John and Orpha Blair Hospice House after a brief illness.
He was born in Warren, PA, on November 1, 1929, the son of the late Samuel and Alberta Pochey Massa. Ronald was a Warren area resident his entire life. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving during the Korean War. Ronald worked for Osram Sylvania and retired from the Warren State Hospital.
He is survived by his loving daughter Amy Adamski of Edinboro, PA; siblings, Dolores Grogan of Charlotte, NC, Toni Jo Loomis and husband Chuck of Warren, Sam Massa and wife Gayle of Warren, Michele Allen and husband Kevin of Irvine, Renee Sperry and husband Skip of Russell, Peter Massa and wife Laurie of Omaha, Nebraska, and Anne Rich and husband Martin of Jamestown, NY; two grandchildren, Samuel Adamski and Maggie Adamski; two great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Ronald was preceded in death by two sisters, Barbara Miller, and Joan Cornelius.
Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in St. Joseph R.C. Cemetery, Warren, PA. The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East St. Warren, PA, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Those wishing to place memorial may do so through Hospice of Warren County, 1 Main Ave. Warren PA, 16365. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
Sr. John Francis Coyle Osf, 99, a Bolivar, NY Native
Born: Phyllis Ann Coyle, December 10, 1922 in Alma, NY
Died: November 7, 2022 in St. Joseph Hospital, Tampa, FL
Daughter of: Philip J. and Lulu (Cook) Coyle, Bolivar, NY
Sr. John Francis entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on February 2, 1945; was received into the Congregation on August 15, 1945; and professed her final vows on August 16, 1952. She joyfully lived the Mission and Charism of the Franciscan Sisters for over 77 years.
Phyllis attended elementary and high school in the Bolivar School System from 1928 – 1940. Following her high school graduation, she studied at Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Buffalo, NY receiving her RN in Nursing in 1944. Sister pursued studies at Barry College, Miami, FL and Catholic University of America in Washington, DC where she received her BS in Nursing. She continued her education at Catholic University of America and received her Master’s in Administration in Nursing Education in 1958.
Her initial ministry was at St. Francis Hospital in Miami Beach, FL as Head Nurse for 13 years. In 1959, she became the Director of Nursing at St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing in Brighton, MA. Five years later, she was transferred to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital School of Nursing in Camden, NJ where she made her impact for 38 years, first as Director followed by the position as Dean. She was known as a firm but outstanding Nursing Director. Graduates from “Lourdes” had the reputation as excellent RN’s due to her commitment to her ministry.
In 2002, Sister retired to St. Elizabeth Convent, Tampa, FL, following a brief period of time caring for her ill sister, Theresa. She was an avid reader and enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, so she took advantage of the free time that was now hers. One of her main delights was baking apple pies for the enjoyment of others.
Sr. John Francis is predeceased by her parents, Philip J and Lulu (Cook) Coyle; her brothers, John and Francis; and her sisters Lucille, Theresa and Agnes. She is survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A wake service is scheduled for Tuesday, November 15, 2022 at 4:00 PM in the chapel of St. Elizabeth Motherhouse. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at 9:30 AM in the chapel of St. Elizabeth Motherhouse. Burial will follow in St. Bonaventure Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 East State Street, Olean, New York. For condolences, please visit www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com.
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM EST THIS EVENING…
Winter Weather Advisory issued November 13 at 9:24AM EST until November 13 at 6:00PM EST by NWS Buffalo
…WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM EST THIS
EVENING…
- WHAT…Lake effect snow. Additional snow accumulations of 1 to
3 inches in the most persistent lake snows. - WHERE…Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties.
- WHEN…Until 6 PM EST this evening.
- IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions.
INSTRUCTIONS: Lake effect snow will be scattered across the area today. If
traveling, be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and
visibilities.
Submit snow reports through our website or social media.
Issued By: NWS Buffalo (Western New York)
Austin VFD Takes Delivery of New Ambulance
Austin Volunteer Fire Department
Tuesday afternoon AVFD took delivery of our new 2022 Wheeled Coach Ford F-550 4×4 Ambulance. The unit was purchased from Atlantic Emergency Solutions. Extensive financial planning and grant work made this purchase possible. The new unit will replace our 2008 Ambulance which has been in service for over 13 years!
The unit was taken immediately to Cousins Designs for lettering / detailing and was picked up last evening. A few more tasks must be completed, and we hope to have Ambulance in service next week!
We are so proud to have a new unit to serve our community!
Pictured (L to R) : 1st Assistant Ambulance Chief Sheryl Orlowski, Atlantic Emergency Services Regional Account Manager Rachel Ray, & Ambulance Chief Tracy Orlowski
Minor Injuries In Early Morning Crash on Barnum Road
Town of Olean Volunteer Fire Department
At approximately 6:40 this morning Town of Olean Volunteer Fire Department along with State Police responded to a MVA on Barnum Road. Minor injuries were reported.
Elkland SAR responded to the forest fire
Delayed Post:
Around 3:55pm Wednesday(110922) Elkland SAR responded to the forest fire north of Rt. 555 at the request of Elk Co. Chief 5, with 12 members and all available equipment. Once arriving at the Command Post Chief 5 requested Elkland to work the eastern flank of the forest fire and report to Elk Co. Deputy 1, at the forward operations post. 2 Elkland members worked traffic control on Rt. 555, Elkland 2 stayed at Command and Elkland 1 and 8 others headed to the forward ops post.
Deputy 1 asked the team to head to the eastern fire break on the pipeline to hold the fireline. Elkland members teamed up with Elk Co. 1 equipment, members who were already working the fire with a DCNR team. Once Elkland members drove the 1/2 mile south to the fire, it was discovered the pipeline was already jumped and the fire was heading further north and east. Departments in that area regrouped and members went to work to stop the eastern flank on the fire with other departments already in the area working to stop the western flank fire from spreading north and west.
The fire heading north was stopped on the eastern flank at the top of the mountain, but the fire was still burning east and up the next ridge, heading north that direction. As the team was refilling water backpacks, they were met up with an additional department and the work resumed on the eastern flank and ridge. This department was another DCNR team of about 12 to 16 individuals I believe. After returning again to the UTVs for more water and to get a drink, additional departments arrived to help. I believe the was the team from Elk Co. 7, Sykesville and Brockway that formed a team of forestfirefighters to help at the fire and continued to work the eastern flank. Elk Co. 8 and I believe McKean Station 5, Kane, also arrived on scene with their brush unit and manpower to assist on the eastern fire line.
While this was going on, other departments were working their way up the mountain from the bottom. Im sorry i can’t identify what departments were coming up from the bottom but this was a HUGE TEAM EFFORT BY ALL DEPARTMENTS INVOLVED! They were also working to contain the fire by building fire break lines and working on the fire line itself to stop it. This was all of the eastern side of the fire. While this was going on, the western flank was just as busy or busier. As I write this only from my view of what I seen going on at the eastern flank.
Once the eastern flank was contained and able to be watched at night by DCNR so the fire wouldn’t jump the line, Elkland members returned to the Rt. 555 Command Post.
Around 9:45pm, as all the Elkland equipment was loaded up and the members were ready to return, it was discovered the western flank escaped the fire line and was heading west again around the first bench on the mountain . Elkland members traveled west of the Rt. 555 Command Post about a quarter of a mile and staged awaiting orders. Elkland, along with other departments, were requested to hike up the mountain and work to contain the area where the fire jumped the line. 8 members went up and using hand tools and water bladders work with the other departments to contain the fire. Around 1:45 am, the fire was contained and we were released to return home. It should be noted DCNR stayed on scene to protect the fire line and work on hotspots that were still burned within the fire line.
Notes:
This article only reflects on the efforts of Elkland SAR. This was a HUGE TEAM EFFORT on EVERYONE’S PART THAT WAS INVOLVED WITH THIS INCIDENT! This fire shows the EXTREME EFFORT Every Fire Department and Emergency Responder will take to support their fellow emergency responders no matter where they are requested to go. It was humbling to see so many departments working together for the community.
A shout out to ALL the Dispatchers who worked tirelessly also! These individuals were manning the radios and talking to numerous departments that were dispatched via radio at the same time. They were requesting agencies from other departments and counties. All the while bringing in resources to fill the departments that were on scene of the forest fire. They are also covering the phone lines talking to other counties and checking for additional resources. While all this was going on, they are also handling other 911 calls and taking phone calls to keep the rest of the county and surrounding areas safe.
Elkand SAR encourages you to look around on other sites and view the other photos from this fire.
A Thank You to the fire auxiliaries and agencies that worked to bring food and drinks for the emergency responders or for their departments as they arrived back home.
The attached pictures are an accumulation of many FB posts and also some from our team.
Elkland SAR can only be a part of situations like this because of Your Financial Support that You the community provides us to work with. Without You, we can not do what we do!
Are you interested in becoming a member of Elkland Search and Rescue?
The next membership meeting is January 10th at 8pm. Please attend the meet and greet at 7:30 that evening to start the joining process. Please be a resident of Elk County Pa and at least 18 years old and attend that meeting. I encourage you to put that date on your calendar as a reminder of the meeting.
Respectfully Submitted by:
John Feldbauer
Chief of Elkland Search and Rescue
PennDOT, Safety Partners Stress Dangers of Aggressive Driving
Clearfield, PA –The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Ferguson Township Police, Department and Highway Safety Network held a media event today near the intersection of Blue Course Drive and West College Avenue where they stressed that aggressive driving behaviors are significant contributing factors to crashes and fatalities on our roadways. They explained that police conduct high visibility enforcement details each year to curb these behaviors and reduce the number of crashes on Pennsylvania roadways.
“It’s about stopping crashes and saving lives,” said Ryan Hendrick, Ferguson Township Police Sergeant. “Slowing down and increasing your following distance not only keeps you from being pulled over, but it also significantly reduces you chances of being injured or killed in a crash.
In addition to aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding and tailgating, Hendrick said law enforcement have been cracking down on violations of the state’s Move Over Law during the current wave of aggressive driving enforcement. The wave started Monday, October 24, and continues through Sunday, November 13.
Hendrick explained the state’s Move Over law requires drivers approaching an emergency response area who are unable to safely merge into a lane farther away from the response area that they must “pass the emergency response area at a speed of no more than 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit and reasonable for safely passing.” He explained an emergency response area is where an emergency vehicle has its lights flashing, or where road crews or emergency responders have lighted flares, posted signs, or try to warn travelers.
Hendrick noted that changes enacted to the law in 2021 included the creation of a new point system that imposes two points for failure to merge into the lane not next to the emergency response area. Changes also set fines at $500 for first-time offenders, $1,000 for a second offense, and $2,000 for a third or subsequent offense. Third or subsequent offenses also require a 90-day license suspension.
Josh Woods, Community Traffic Safety Project Coordinator with the Highway Safety Network, reminded drivers that the school bus stopping law requires them to stop at least 10 feet away from buses with their red lights flashing and stop arm extended. Motorists meeting or overtaking a stopped bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped must stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety. If a physical barrier such as a grassy median, guide rail or concrete median separates oncoming traffic from the bus, motorists in the opposing lanes may proceed without stopping.
Approximately 300 municipal police departments and the Pennsylvania State Police are participating in these enforcement efforts, and they are concentrating efforts on roadways known to have high numbers of aggressive driving crashes.
According to PennDOT 2021 data, aggressive driving behaviors were a contributing factor in 6,206 crashes. Those crashes resulted in 126 fatalities and 481 suspected serious injuries. In Centre County, aggressive driving behaviors were a contributing factor in 53 percent of crashes in 2021.
For more information on Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law or the Move Over Law, visit http://www.penndot.pa.gov/safety.
BEAR CHECK STATION CHANGES SITE IN LYCOMING COUNTY
Kicking off on Saturday, Nov. 19, the regular firearms bear season will be here before you know it, and hunters in and around Lycoming County need to be aware a check station location has changed.
The check station at Trout Run Fire Hall, north of Williamsport along state Route 14, will operate as planned on Saturday, Nov. 19 and Sunday Nov. 20, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on each day. There also will be a check station at the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Northcentral Region Office, 1566 South Route 44 Highway, Jersey Shore, Pa., which also will operate on Saturday, Nov. 19 and Sunday Nov. 20, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on each day.
The check station at the Northcentral Region Office is not included on the list of regular firearms bear season check stations provided in the 2022-23 Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest. That’s because it’s a recent change to accommodate hunters who ordinarily would have checked bears at the Antes Fort Fire Hall. The fire company has opted not to host a check station this year, so that check station instead will be held at the Northcentral Region Office, which is less than a quarter-mile away.
Hunters are advised that the Antes Fort Fire Hall remains on the list of check stations on Page 41 of the Hunting & Trapping Digest, but those who go there will be redirected to the region office.
Meanwhile, all bear hunters should be advised the days and hours of operation have changed for check stations statewide this year. All check stations will operate on Saturday, Nov. 19 and Sunday Nov. 20, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on each day. Hunters who harvest bears on Monday, Nov. 21 or the season’s final day, Tuesday, Nov. 22, should call the Game Commission’s Centralized Dispatch Center at 1-833-PGC-HUNT or 1-833-PGC-WILD for instructions on having their bears checked.
In the extended bear season, which overlaps all or a portion of the firearms deer season and is held in 16 of 23 Wildlife Management Units, bear check stations are open on various dates and times. Those check stations and their dates and hours of operation are found on Page 42 of the 2022-23 Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest.
Jeffrey John Blass, 65, of a longtime resident of Galeton, PA
Jeffrey John Blass, 65, of a longtime resident of Galeton, PA went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, November 11, 2022, in his home after a long illness.
Born on Friday, June 28, 1957 in Wellsboro, he was the eldest son of John J. and Janet Meholczo Blass. He was married to Trixie Buck Blass for 42 years, who preceded him in death.
Jeff was a graduate of Galeton High School and was a 1992 graduate of Penn Tech with a degree in Human Services, having attained a 4.0 GPA and was the Class Valedictorian.
He was employed for 18 years at the Northern Tier Children’s Home and had spent the balance of his 45 years working life as a heavy equipment operator, in the utilities field and in street maintenance.
Jeff had an excellent childhood growing up on the south side with his siblings and great lifelong neighbors on First and Second Streets of Galeton. He especially cherished the lifelong friendships made in the bus gang, where Redwood Village now stands. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with family and friends his entire life. He worked hard and played just as hard.
Surviving are three sons, John, Jake, and Josh; grandsons, Brantley and Jayse Blass; sister, Debra (John) Simonetti, niece, Breana Jo and grandnephew, Zander, all of West Pike; brother, Daniel (Louie) Blass of Mesa, Arizona and niece, Audrey and grandnephews, Oliver and Hayse of California; and sister, Sheila (Tanya) Blass of Ulysses.
Jeff was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Vicki.
In keeping with Jeff’s wishes there will be no public visitation or funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Jeff entrusted his 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 Jeff, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Lake Effect Snow Expected From 7 PM Today Through Sunday
Winter Weather Advisory issued November 12 at 12:35PM EST until November 13 at 6:00PM EST by NWS Buffalo
DESCRIPTION: …WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM EST SUNDAY…
- WHAT…Lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 3
to 6 inches in the most persistent lake snows. The greatest
accumulations will occur across the higher terrain. - WHERE…Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties.
- WHEN…From 7 PM this evening to 6 PM EST Sunday.
- IMPACTS…Plan on slippery road conditions.
INSTRUCTIONS: Lake effect snow will fall in relatively narrow bands. If
traveling, be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and
visibilities.
Submit snow reports through our website or social media.
Issued By: NWS Buffalo (Western New York)