Intersection Improvement Project Continues Along The Route 54 Corridor In Montour County
Montoursville, PA – Motorists are advised that a multi-year intersection improvement project continues along the Route 54 corridor near the Route 642 west (Liberty Valley Road) and Route 642 east (Jerseytown Road) intersection in Valley and Mahoning townships, Montour County.
The Week of Monday, January 5, 2026
The contractor will continue working on the new alignment for Route 642, this work includes blasting. There will be two to three blasting events per week between the hours of 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Motorists can expect short term lane restrictions during these blasting events.
Traffic Control
Route 54 / Liberty Valley Road intersection.
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert
December 31, 2025 09:30AM
The Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office has canceled the travel advisory that was issued for Cattaraugus County. Winds have subsided and visibility has improved. Lake effect snow is expected to continue throughout the day and increase again this evening. Those traveling should leave extra time to reach their destination, ensure their vehicle is prepared for winter travel and monitor local weather forecasts.
For weather information visit https://weather.gov/buf or local media, For road closure information visit https://511ny.org.
NY-Alert Support – NYAlertSupport@its.ny.gov
Cindy L. MADISON, 64, of Westfield, PA
Cindy L. MADISON, 64, of Westfield, PA, died Monday, December 29, 2025 in her home. Born August 30, 1961, in Wellsboro, she was the daughter of Ralph and Lena J. Norton Madison.
She was employed as a home health aide and by Electri-Cord in Westfield.
Surviving are: a son, Clayton Madison of Westfield; a granddaughter, Lena Madison; a sister, Diana Pierce of Westfield; nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by two brothers, Ralph “Rusty” Madison, Jr. and Darryl L. Madison.
Services will be private. Burial will be in Champlin Cemetery, Westfield. Memorials may be made to any animal care sanctuary.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Rose M. Franco, 98, of Ridgway-Johnsonburg Road, Johnsonburg
Rose M. Franco, 98, of Ridgway-Johnsonburg Road, Johnsonburg, passed away early Monday morning, December 29, 2025, at her residence following a brief illness. She was born on May 7, 1927, in Johnsonburg, a daughter to the late Dominic and Mary Magra Ferragine. On September 16, 1950, in Holy Rosary Church, Johnsonburg, she married Ralph L. Franco. He preceded her in death on December 31, 2010.
A lifelong resident of Johnsonburg, Rose was a 1945 graduate of Johnsonburg High School. She was a member of Holy Rosary Church where she was a member of the Funeral Luncheon Committee. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society, Johnsonburg Women’s Club, Card Club and the Johnsonburg Senior Center where she volunteered and delivered Meals on Wheels. Rose loved spending time at home with her children and grandchildren, making trips to the casino and playing bingo.
Rose had worked at Andrew Kaul Memorial Hospital for 7 years, retiring in 1989, and she had also worked at Elk County Catholic High School, teaching Home Economics for 4 years.
UPMC Expert: Managing Mood and Motivation When Days Are Short
As winter continues (and continues, and continues…) and daylight hours shrink, many people notice a dip in energy, motivation, and overall mood. You might feel more tired than usual, less focused, or simply “off.” These shifts are common and treatable. By understanding how shorter days affect the body and mind, you can take small steps that make a big difference.
Why Short Days Affect Us
Sunlight plays a major role in regulating the body’s internal clock. With fewer hours of daylight, our circadian rhythm can shift, leading to changes in sleep patterns, hormone levels, and mood. Less exposure to natural light can also reduce serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood stability, while increasing melatonin, which signals the body to wind down. The result: feeling sluggish, down, or unmotivated.
For some, these symptoms are mild and seasonal. For others, they may develop into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that typically occurs in late fall and winter. Paying attention to your symptoms is the first step in addressing them.
Light, Movement, and Routine
Three simple tools, light, movement, and structure, can help rebalance your mood during the darker months.
Stephen E. Perkins, 77, of Shinglehouse
Stephen E. Perkins
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—-Stephen E. Perkins, 77, of Shinglehouse, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY, after a long illness.
In honoring Stephen’s wishes, there will be no services or further obituary published.
Stephen 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 Stephen, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
MURDER CONVICTION OF CONGRESS STREET MAN UPHELD
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that the appeals’ court has affirmed the conviction of convicted murderer Frederick CAMEJO, Jr. By opinion dated December 24, 2025, the Pennsylvania Superior Court issued its opinion affirming the conviction of CAMEJO in the 2022 murder of Edward Fomby, Jr. on Congress Street in Bradford.
On the night of the murder, CAMEJO’s family member called 911 to report that CAMEJO and Fomby were involved in a verbal disagreement outside of the CAMEJO residence. The 911 call and home surveillance videos captured the moment of the shooting. Testimony included what witnesses and home video captured at the time of the murder including witness/evidence of statements by CAMEJO including declaring, “you’re dead now B…h” immediately after firing the fatal shots into the back of Fomby as Fomby turned and walked away from CAMEJO. CAMEJO was convicted at a jury trial in September, 2024 of Murder in the 3rd Degree, Discharge of a Firearm into an Occupied Structure and three counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person (deadly weapon enhancement).
Denise A. Simmons, 64, Of St. Marys
Denise A. Simmons, 64, of 943 Plymouth Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully Thursday, December 25, 2025 at her residence with her sister-in-law, Beth Nissel, by her side.
She was born May 14, 1961, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Ronald and Nancy Gleixner Nissel. She was a resident of the area for most of her life but spent many years in Virginia. She was a graduate of St. Marys Area High School, Class of 1980. On February 14, 2007, in Virginia, Denise married, the late Durk Simmons, who preceded her in death on November 11, 2018.
Denise is survived by three sons, Ray Erich (Elizabeth) of St. Marys, Adam Erich (Christina and her son, Kane) of Virginia, and Tyler Erich of St. Marys; a step-daughter, Jessica Gotta (Mike) of Virginia; two grandchildren: Everett and Rosie Erich; two step-grandchildren: Mikayla and Mikinly; four siblings: Lou Ann Largey (Joseph) of Kersey, Jim Nissel of St. Marys, Mark Nissel (Lisa) of St. Marys, and Bob Nissel (Beth) of St. Marys: three nieces: Krystal Fordoski, Tiffany Largey, and Ashley Nissel; a nephew, Kevin Nissel; two step-nieces: Marissa Lenze and Shawna Lenze; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert
Winter Weather Advisory issued December 30 at 1:16PM EST until January 1 at 1:00AM EST by NWS Buffalo NY
* WHAT…Lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations 5 to 10
inches in the most persistent lake snows.
* WHERE…Allegany County. The highest amounts across north and west
portions of the county.
* WHEN…Until 1 AM EST Thursday.
* IMPACTS…Travel will be very difficult. The hazardous conditions
will impact travel through Wednesday.
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 NY
Virgil Paul Harrison, 82, Of Galeton,PA
Virgil Paul Harrison – March 1, 1943 ~ December 25, 2025
Virgil passed away very peacefully in the early hours of Christmas Day, on one of two of his favorite holidays, the 4th of July being the other. He had weeks worth of different 4th of July related shirts. He would decorate his scooter and drive it proudly in the Memorial and 4th of July parades in Galeton, PA. He served in the Vietnam Era, just as all his older brothers did. Thru ancestry Virgil was related to Leonard Harrison who founded Harrison valley and the Grand canyon.
He loved to fish, especially fly fishing, and loved to teach anyone who wanted to learn how to do either. His favorite place to fish was Pine Creek. He was a diehard fan of the Buffalo Bills and the Bodine Brothers, plus Denny Hamblin. His collection of Hess Trucks includes the very first one made to the latest. He was like a little kid when he received a new one and had it out on display for everyone to see.
Virgil is survived by his son, Timmie P. (who took him fishing several times over the years and for his last season) and his son, Seth and fiancée, Emily Smith. His sister-in-law, Celesta Harrison and her children, Lafron, Patrick and Julia Ann Rider – who he played an important role in their lives growing up; as well as, Tina Rider – who he treated like his daughter. He showed their families his love of camping – which they loved to do.
Virgil leaves behind 4 generations of nieces and nephews, the morning coffee club at the Galeton Nittany, the Lancenese Family, The Upper Pine Creek Sportsmen Association Club (which he helped start with his buddy Fred), several friends he made in many years from his days at the formally known Kenshire Kampground and his dear friends, Janine and Bobby, who looked after him.
Mary Ann Hannibal, 88, formerly St. Marys
December 30, 1936 — December 29, 2025
Mary Ann Hannibal, 88, formerly of Teaberry Road, St. Marys, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, at St. John Specialty Care in Mars.
She was born on December 30, 1936, in St. Marys, PA, a Daughter of the late Francis and Anna Krug Eberl.
On April 27, 1957, in St. Marys Church, she married the late Ronald Hannibal, who preceded her in death on October 11, 2011. Together, they were blessed with more than 54 years of marriage.
Mary Ann was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Central High School. She was a member of the CMF Club. In her free time, Mary Ann enjoyed golfing and bowling. She also loved hosting parties and getting together to play cards with friends.
She is survived by her beloved granddaughter; Rachel Rafaniello, and her husband, Matthew of Valencia, PA, and by her great-granddaughter; Haley Rafaniello.
This Next Year I’m …
Pastor B.J. Knefley
Each New Year brings resolutions about the things we intend to change in the coming year. Perhaps we voice our desires to change what we wish to change or try something new. Perhaps we have dreams that are still unfulfilled, or we simply want our life to be different somehow. We are tired of the same old stuff. The same issues and frustrations are constant reminders that our lives have not gone anywhere. Our future looks as bleak as our past has been, and although we would like things to be different this next year, we don’t really hold out any hope.
I know a family that has been through much this past year. In fact, they have been through much over the past several years. Facing yet another issue, one of the parents asked whether anything good could come out of what they were dealing with. Seeing only the problem and the need to walk through yet another “issue,” the future didn’t seem all that hopeful. In these times, we might all like to crawl back into bed and wake up on a different day. But life doesn’t work that way, and although we might wish things would go away, the only way they will is when we jump into the midst of them. That is exactly what this family has done. Instead of letting the events of their lives control them, they are taking an active approach to working through them.
As an outsider looking into the lives of many people, I often observe things they cannot see. Take, for example, the family I was referring to. I have watched this family grow stronger. The couple’s relationship has grown stronger through their trials. Where they once lacked self-confidence, they are now willing to take steps they could not have taken a year ago. I have watched the whole family grow emotionally and spiritually. How are they doing this? They are practicing faith in a way that brings hope amid trials. Easy? No, but the outcome of their effort is making them stronger. Want life to change? Perhaps you’ll need to look past the trial and into the arena of faith that produces hope. Think about it.
Donna Chapman, 75, of Kane, PA
Donna Chapman, 75, of Dawson St. in Kane, passed away Saturday (Dec. 27) in UPMC-Presbyterian. Born Dec. 16. 1950 in Kane, she is the daughter of the late Alden and Mary (Joshnick) Chapman.
Whether you think you know Donna or not, you probably did. She worked at the Texas Hot for over thirty years.
She is survived by one daughter, Brooke (Steve) Raymondo of Kane; one son, Jason Chapman of Salt Lake City, UT; one brother, John (Patty) Chapman of Kane; one sister, Judy Mickle of Edinboro; a half sister, Katheryn Kielman; a granddaughter, Xandra Raymondo; two grandsons, Anthony and Ayden Raymondo and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Daniel (her twin brother), Robert, and Wayne.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
The Cummings Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of services.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donna M. Chapman, please visit our floral store.
Sr. Margaret Mary McManus, OSF, 93, Allegany, NY
November 28, 1932 — December 23, 2025
Allegany
Sr. Margaret Mary McManus, OSF
November 28, 1932 – December 23, 2025
Born: Margaret Mary McManus, November 28, 1932, in New York City, NY
Died: December 23, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, Allegany, NY
Daughter of: Thomas and Bridget (McGoey) McManus
Sister Margaret McManus entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on February 2, 1950, was received into the Congregation on August 15, 1950, and professed her final vows on August 16, 1957. For over 75 years, she faithfully lived her vows to God through her ministry and life in community.
Margaret graduated from Good Shepherd Elementary School in 1945 and Sacred Heart Academy in 1949, both in NYC, NY. After graduating from St. Bonaventure University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration, she pursued further studies at the University of Minnesota, earning a Master of Science Degree in Hospital Administration.
Airport Road Closed in Ralpho Township, Northumberland County
Montoursville, PA – Motorists are advised that Airport Road (Route 2018) is closed in both directions between Reading Turnpike Road (Route 2016) and Stony Lane in Ralpho Township, Northumberland County, due to a downed tree and utilities, in the vicinity of the Northumberland County Airport.
A detour using Reading Turnpike Road and Route 54 is in place.
Motorists should be alert, slow down, expect delays in travel, and drive with caution.
Severe Watches And Warnings For Roulette
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service State College PA
1014 PM EST Mon Dec 29 2025
…LAKE EFFECT SNOW BANDS TONIGHT…
Strong westerly winds and moisture streaming off the Great Lakes has generated heavy bands of lake effect snow that will impact portions of I-99 in Centre County, I-80 between mile marker 140 and 190, as well as roadways in Cameron, Clinton, and Potter counties for the next few hours.
Bands of lake effect snow can quickly reduce visibility and cause rapid accumulations of snow. The reduced traction and blinding visibility of a snow band can make travel very dangerous very quickly.
Use extra caution if you must travel tonight and encounter bands of heavy snow, slow down and consider exiting the highway. Rapid changes in visibility and potentially slick roads may lead to accidents. Please use extreme caution and allow plenty of stopping distance. Avoid braking suddenly.
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert, Travel Advisory In Effect
December 30, 2025 02:30AM
The Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office has issued a TRAVEL ADVISORY for all of Cattaraugus County. Heavy snow and high wind is making travel very difficult, dangerous and nearly impossible in some areas. Motorists are asked to AVOID unnecessary travel until further notice.
A travel advisory does not mean all roads in the affected area are officially closed. However the public is encouraged to avoid any travel that could wait until the advisory is lifted and conditions have improved.
If travel is necessary, motorists are asked to leave extra time to reach their destination, have a winter emergency kit in their vehicle, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, and be observant of first responders and plows on the roadways.
For more information on weather and road closings visit https://weather.gov/buf, https://511ny.org and monitor local media including TV and radio.
Speed Limit Restored on Roadway in the Region
Montoursville, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has lifted the speed limit and right-lane-only commercial vehicle restrictions that were in place on an area roadway.
- Due to the winter weather impacting the region, the speed limit were reduced to 45 mph on Interstate 80 between the Clinton/Union County line and the Northumberland/Montour County line. All speeds are restored to their usual posted limits.
PennDOT is still treating roadways in the area and will continue until roads are clear.
Motorists can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles, including color-coded winter conditions on 2,900 miles, by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,200 traffic cameras.
511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert
HEADLINE: Wind Advisory issued December 29 at 6:36PM EST until December 30 at 7:00AM EST by NWS Buffalo NY
DESCRIPTION: * WHAT…West winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.
* WHERE…Cattaraugus County.
* WHEN…Until 7 AM EST Tuesday.
* IMPACTS…Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree
limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
INSTRUCTIONS: Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high
profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.
Issued By: NWS Buffalo NY
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert
HEADLINE: Snow Squall Warning issued December 29 at 6:45PM EST until December 29 at 7:30PM EST by NWS Binghamton NY
DESCRIPTION: The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a
* Snow Squall Warning for…
Southeastern Seneca County in central New York…
Schuyler County in central New York…
Northwestern Broome County in central New York…
Southwestern Madison County in central New York…
Southeastern Cayuga County in central New York…
Cortland County in central New York…
Chemung County in central New York…
Tioga County in central New York…
Southern Onondaga County in central New York…
Southeastern Steuben County in central New York…
Tompkins County in central New York…
Northwestern Chenango County in central New York…