NOVEMBER
30 2021
Bradford Ecumenical Home seeks children’s mitten donations
ELF FUND TREE CHALLENGE WINNER
Locals prepare boxes for Operation Christmas Child
BY DANIELLA GRIESBAUM Children should not have to suffer from cold hands this winter, which is why the Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with the Bradford Ecumenical Home and Chapel Ridge to gather mitten donations for area children. Mitten donations can be dropped off to the reception area at the Bradford Ecumenical Home Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. or at Chapel Ridge between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. It is also ok to mail them to Becky Greenberg’s attention. Mitten donations will be accepted through Dec. 10 and displayed on the Mitten Christmas Tree. Families of the residents at the Bradford Ecumenical Home and Chapel Ridge have also been donating mittens — some have been donated from as far away as California, according to Greenberg. Newly purchased mittens and handmade mittens are accepted. “Please help by donating mittens to keep little hands warm this winter. All donations will be hung on our Mitten Tree and donated to local school children,” said Lisa Johnson, chief executive officer for the Bradford Ecumenical Home Inc. The Mitten Tree is a great tradition that staff look forward to each year, according to Becky Greenberg, director of activities at the Ecumenical Home. The idea for the Mitten Tree is based upon the book called the Mitten Tree. “It is a touching story and we love to carry on the sentiment of the story to make sure all the kids have warm hands through the cold winter,” said Greenberg. The staff at the Ecumenical Home really
Mitten Donations continued ... page 3
Photo submitted “The Santa Tree” was the winning submission in The Era’s Less Fortunate (ELF) Fund’s Tree Challenge. The tree -- decorated by Cassette Troop 26010, Brownie Troop 20335 and Daisy Troop 20029 led by Bonnie Leposa -- was auctioned off during the Festival of Trees fundraiser. The winner was the tree that brought in the highest bid. “The Santa Tree” will be on display in the window of Shembeda Floor Covering in Bradford. Also participating the Tree Challenge were Sandi Corradi, Kessel Construction, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Hamlin Bank & Trust and Girl Scout Troop 16366.
McKean Co. commissioners approve bid for parking project BY MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER SMETHPORT — The McKean County commissioners at Wednesday’s meeting approved a bid for work on the rear parking area at the courthouse. The bid went to Bob Cummins Construction of Bradford with a low bid of $156,700 with an alternate of $7,300. The project is to add drainage to secure the wall adjacent to the courthouse, replace the sidewalk and to pave in the parking spaces. The alternate bid would be included in the project if Smethport Borough were to pave King Street behind the courthouse. Also at the meeting, the commissioners appointed Rick Fry, the county’s planning director, to the board of the North Central
Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission for a threeyear term. Greg Bell was appointed to the McKean County Conservation District board for a four-year term. Commissioner Cliff Lane made the motion, saying, “We had some very good candidates interested.” Bell has been involved with the conservation district for a long time, Lane said. The motion was approved unanimously. In other matters, the commissioners unanimously approved applying for tax anticipation note for $2.5 million. Chairman Tom Kreiner said this is done annually. “This is normal so we have operating money until the tax revenue comes in,” he explained. Commissioners also
Pa. State Game Commission investigation leads to charges SMETHPORT — A from the possession Kane man has been of firearms. Bail was charged following an set at $30,000 by investigation by the Magisterial District Pennsylvania State Judge Todd. Game Commission. Kane Borough On Saturday, Police Officers McKean County PGC Joseph Schmader officers began an inand Michael Henry vestigation into posand Pennsylvania sible Game Law viState Police assisted olations near Kane, in the investigation. according to District According to Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer, Vettenburg-Shaffer. additional charges Following an into be filed by the vestigation, Jared Smith possessing two firearms Game Commission are of Kane was charged with when he is prohibited pending.
approved reallocating funds within a McKean County Redevelopment Authority/ A Partnership in Housing grant due to changes in need. Emergency shelter services were increased by $8,348; street outreach services were decreased by the same amount. Rapid rehousing case management services were increased by $4,000, while rapid re-housing rental assistance was decreased by $15,594. Homeless prevention was increased by $11,594, while homeless prevention rental assistance was decreased by $492. Homeless Management Information Services was increased by $492. The next commissioners meeting will be held Dec 14 at 10 a.m.
BY JOELLEN WANKEL The First Baptist Church just finished a week of collecting shoe boxes for Samaritan’s Purse for their Operation Christmas Child program. They collected a total of 1,581 boxes that will be sent around the world to spread joy and the gospel. Operation Christmas Child creates shoebox gifts for children overseas. The goal is to provide fun with toys, school supplies to help with their education and hygiene items, as these may be in short supply for children affected by war, disaster, poverty or famine. Students in Mrs. Jeanette’s and Mrs. Henry’s preschool and kindergarten classes at Bradford Area Christian Academy got a first-hand look at the shipping/packaging process, which includes letters and pictures for the special child who will receive it.
Each child prayed for the box and then the classes visited Bradford’s First Baptist Church, the OCC distribution center in town, to prepare the boxes for shipping. Operation Christmas Child is organized by Samaritan’s Purse International Relief. The program in the United States has been active since 1993. The origination of the program can be tracked to the United Kingdom in 1980, when Dave and Jill Cooke created a shoebox gift project in Wales. That project partnered with Samaritan’s Purse in 1993 and has continued from there. With a $9 donation online, those who pack shoeboxes can track where their box goes. Those who pack the boxes can visit samaritanspurse.org/activate to see details on the donation and tracking ability.
Blood drives set across region ERIE — As many look ahead at a busy holiday season, the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors across the country to give blood or platelets in the coming weeks. Several blood drives have been scheduled in the region for December. On Dec. 1, a drive will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Otto-Eldred High School, 143 Sweitzer Drive. On Dec. 2, a drive will be held from 1 to 5:30 p.m. at the Eldred First Church of God, 142 Main St. On Dec. 3, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford will host a
drive from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Dec. 6, the Kane First United Methodist Church, 112 Greeves St., will hold a drive from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. On Dec. 8, a drive will be held at the St. Marys Moose Club Lodge in Elk County from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. On Dec. 9 in Cameron County, a drive will be held at the Vets Club in Emporium from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. On Dec. 10, the Johnsonburg Senior Center in Elk County will hold a drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
On Dec. 13, Smethport Fire Hall will hold a drive from noon to 5:30 p.m. Make an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you, all those who come to give Nov. 29-Dec. 16 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a private screening for the winner and 50 of their guests of the epic new film The Matrix Resurrections. Plus, those who come to give Nov. 29Dec. 16 will also get a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, thanks to Amazon.
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NOVEMBER 30, 2021
Create a Healthier Home Through Smart Updates (FAMILY FEATURES)
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any homeowners looking to improve their living spaces seek out upgrades that can add visual appeal, improve functionality or increase resale value. However, some updates can also benefit the mental and physical health of those who occupy the space. While making your home healthier can involve simple steps like decluttering, swapping out cleaning products for natural versions and opening windows to let in more fresh air, there are other projects that can be done to create longer-lasting results. Consider these ideas to create spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also impart a sense of well-being. Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint Changing the color of a room can transform your space while also positively impacting your mood. Bright, warm colors like yellow may be uplifting while cooler shades like beige, pale green and soft blue can be soothing. Repainting can also help prevent mold and mildew growth on walls while repelling dust and allergens. Traditional oil- and latex-based paints give off gases that may cause issues such as eye and respiratory irritation. Look for paints with no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and that are certified not to contain heavy metals, carcinogens and other harmful compounds. Upgrade Your Flooring Made of natural materials, hardwood flooring is not only attractive but is a hygienic, easy-toclean choice. The organic beauty and grain of the wood creates an intrinsic connection to nature. You can set the foundation for your living spaces with an option like artisan-crafted Carlisle Wide Plank Floors. Each floor is handcrafted, one board at a time, from sustainably sourced timbers. Whether you select each detail - wood species, grade, texture and color - or choose from a collection of popular tried-and-true finishes, the result is a unique floor with distinctive character. Learn more at wideplankflooring.com. Add Natural Light If your home lacks adequate natural lighting, adding or replacing windows and skylights can allow more sunlight into your living space. This offers several benefits, including an
• Wood • Coal • Pellet • Corn • Fireplaces • Boilers • Furnaces • Liners • Hearth Products • Stove & Chimney Pipe • Custom Log Homes • Log Siding • Rough Cut Lumber • Firewood • Wood Pellets
improved sense of well-being and increased productivity, not to mention the potential cost savings when you install energy-efficient versions. Additionally, light-blocking shades and adjustable light technologies can work with natural circadian rhythms to enhance sleep. Modernize the Kitchen From appliances to countertops, there are a variety of kitchen upgrades that can make your space healthier. Incorporating automated technology like a touchless faucet can reduce the amount of contact with germs while a water filtration system can improve the quality of your drinking water. Updating your countertops with a non-porous material like quartz, which replicates the look
of natural stone, provides a contemporary aesthetic, and the antimicrobial surface will not harbor bacteria or viruses. Create a Bathroom Oasis Even a small space like the bathroom can benefit from wellness-focused updates. Soaking tubs and spa showers with hydrotherapy showerheads can help reduce stress and provide a mental respite. Additionally, a heated towel rack not only brings a touch of luxury but can reduce energy usage and keep towels free of mold and mildew between washes. Touchless faucets and toilets can also help reduce the spread of germs while bringing convenience.
“Let Us Fix Your Leaky Chimneys”
Be Car Care Aware Tips to ensure cool weather safety and visibility
(FAMILY FEATURES)
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here’s a chill in the air, leaves are changing colors and falling from trees and there are more porches decorated for the seasons ahead than the eyes can see. The changing weather also means shorter days and longer nights where visibility becomes critical from sunset to sunrise. Now is the ideal time to ensure your vehicle is ready for the transition of seasons by checking key safety and visibility items. While it can be picturesque, seasonal weather is often unpredictable, so it’s important to ensure your vehicle is ready for all conditions. Make sure your headlights, wiper blades and windshield washer fluid are ready for the challenges of driving during the fall and winter months ahead. Windshield Wiper Blades Start with checking the windshield wiper blades that work overtime in inclement weather. Flat blade windshield wipers are designed to hug the curve of your windshield and provide a clean wipe. Be sure to invest in a pair of new wiper blades to help give you a clear line of sight behind the wheel as the weather changes. “To help keep drivers’ windshields clean regardless of the season, PEAK offers a full line of wiper blades that help keep drivers’ windshields clean regardless of the season,” automotive DIY expert Emily
Reeves said. “It’s important to make sure you check your car manual to help determine which blade size is right for your vehicle and take into consideration the environmental elements you’ll face heading into fall and winter.” Windshield Washer Fluid Wiper blades alone won’t keep leaves, dirt and grime off of your windshield. Next, it’s crucial to check your windshield washer fluid to make sure its fresh and caters to seasonal needs. Be sure to do some research to determine what is best for both your vehicle and local climate, whether that be all-season, bug cleaning or de-icing. Seasonally appropriate windshield washer fluid can help ensure you’re prepared to fight everything from rain, bugs, tree sap and bird droppings from interfering with your visibility and allow you to drive more safely. Headlights A clean, clear windshield is nothing if you aren’t able to see more than 5 feet in front of you.
Shorter days mean less sunlight and decreased visibility while on the road. Now is also a perfect time to check your headlights to ensure they aren’t dimming, which will reduce visibility, particularly at nighttime. There are options available to suit both drivers who prefer a more golden hue as well as a white halogen glow. “There is nothing worse than a dim headlight when you’re driving at night, especially as our days get shorter,” Reeves said. “Whether you’re dealing with morning fog or chilly temperature drops, help maintain your visibility with PEAK Power Vision Headlamps, which include options that range from a golden hue to a white halogen glow.” These tips can help ensure your vehicle is ready to tackle fall and winter weather conditions. For additional insights to maximize your car’s potential, and key products to use as you prepare for the road ahead, visit owi.com/ retail/brands/peak-auto.
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NOVEMBER 30, 2021
Bradford Little Theatre announces cast Bradford Little Theatre has announced the cast for its December show, “InLaws, Outlaws and Other People (That Should Be Shot)” directed by Kristin Asinger. This show will be produced by Laura Piccioli. This comedic holiday play, written by Steve Franco, is sure to delight audiences. “In-Laws, Outlaws, and Other People (That Should Be Shot)” tells the story of the Douglas family as they are busy preparing for the invasion of their quirky relatives at their annual Christmas Eve dinner. Meanwhile, Tony and his dim-witted sidekick Vinny, have just robbed a neighborhood liquor store and need a place to hideout. After the two robbers gain entrance into the Douglas home, they suddenly find themselves in charge of an ever-growing list of family members that they are forced to hold hostage. The cast is a combination of BLT veteran actors and some newcomers as well. The cast is as follows: Brad Preston (Bradford) as Dad, Danica Austin (Eldred) as Beth, Kali O’Neil (Bradford) as Tracy, Tiffany Mager (Bradford) as Mrs. Draper, Sandra MacFarlane
(Rew) as Bunny, Arick Close (Bradford) as Bud, Chris Lathrop (Bradford) as Paul Wakowski, Lillian South (Bradford) as Emily Wakowski, Lori Belleville (Bradford) as Mrs. Wakowski, Joe Fitz (Bradford) as Tony, Darren Hilmes (Bradford) as Vinny, Paul Nelson (Olean, N.Y.) as Uncle Leo, Anne Holliday (Bradford) as Aunt Rose, Kim Preston (Bradford) as Janet, Addie Haviland (Bradford) as Officer Henley, R’nejah Hubbart (Bradford) and Addie Haviland (Bradford) as Christmas Carolers. With outrageous characters, laugh-a-minute-dialogue, and a heart-felt ending, “In-Laws, Out-Laws, and Other People (That Should Be Shot)” is sure to leave you in stitches while celebrating the meaning of Christmas. Show dates are Dec. 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. The show will be held at Togi’s Playhouse at 18 Welch Ave, Bradford,. More details can be found on the website, www. bradfordlittletheatre.org or by searching Bradford Little Theatre on Facebook. Tickets are available at Togi’s Family Restaurant and on the BLT website.
North Central to hold virtual meeting Dec. 14 RIDGWAY — A meeting of the North Central Rural Transportation Planning Committee will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 14. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, this meeting will be conducted as a virtual meeting.
Those interested in attending should visit https://rpo.ncentral.com/, email Amy Kessler at amy@ncentral.com or call (814) 773-3162 for the meeting login information. The public is encouraged to attend.
Eldred Christmas concert set ELDRED — Eldred on Thursday, Dec. 2 at 7 United Methodist p.m. The concert is free Church is hosting a group, The Needhams, and open to the public. for a Christmas Concert
Post Holiday Case Surge Forecasted POTTER COUNTY, PA – Thanksgiving Day dawned with more than 200 confirmed carriers of the COVID-19 coronavirus spread out around Potter County. They represent just a fraction of the actual number who are infected and highly contagious, according to the Pa. Dept. of Health (DOH). The department’s statistical summary includes only those victims who have tested positive. DOH reported that there were 26 more confirmed cases and another COVIDrelated death among Potter County residents between Monday and Wednesday. Since the pandemic began, there have been 2,220 known cases — more than one in seven county residents — and 54 lives lost. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is forecasting a post-Thanksgiving surge in COVID hospitalizations and deaths across the nation, based on surveys showing that more than one-third of Americans will gather for Thanksgiving dinner today with individuals who have not been vaccinated against the virus. CDC noted that the U.S. death count will soon pass the 800,000 milestone. Also on Wednesday, UPMC Cole reported that it is treating a record 17 COVID patients. Four of them are occupying beds in the hospital’s six-patient Intensive Care Unit and one is being sustained by a respirator. Similar scenarios are playing out across the region. Four more Tioga County residents died from COVID between Monday and Wednesday and 68 more tested positive. Tioga has had 5,407 cases and 146 deaths since the pandemic was declared. Also between Monday and Wednesday, McKean County had 59 more cases and two more deaths; Clinton, 69 cases; Cameron, 13 cases; Allegany County, N.Y., 91 cases and one death; Elk, 51 cases; Lycoming, 262 cases and three deaths; and Cattaraugus County, N.Y., 190 cases and three deaths. DOH reports a slow but steady increase in the number of Potter County residents being vaccinated against the coronavirus. An average of 20 people per day have been receiving an
initial vaccine or a booster shot over the past week. Potter County’s vaccination rate — which remains barely half of the statewide figure — has passed the 40-percent milestone. Some 971 residents age five and older have received a single dose and 5,349 have now been administered one or more booster shots. National studies show
that approximately 70 percent of new COVID victims were not vaccinated. In “breakthrough cases,” those who are protected are much less likely to die or be seriously ill. On a related note, CDC advises that the effectiveness of a single COVID shot diminishes over time. Those who have had booster shots are much more fully protected.
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All U.S. residents age 18 and older are now eligible to receive booster vaccines. UPMC Cole offers the vaccine to eligible patients at its outpatient offices. To schedule an appointment for an adult, call 814-2745460; for pediatric patients, call 814-274-9198.
Mitten Donations continued from 1 miss the pre-COVID tradition of hosting the pre-k classes from George G. Blaisdell Elementary School. “We would read them the story, then the kids would do a mitten craft and then take turns picking the mittens they wanted from the tree. Our residents enjoyed watching the kids choose and then they would show their mitten choices off to us,”
Greenberg stated. Because of restrictions due to the COVID pandemic, this year the donated mittens will be divided up and sent to the various area schools for the children. According to Greenberg, staff will attempt to get the mittens to the schools well before Winter break, so the mittens can be disbursed before that. “I see the one tree is already filling up with mittens and the collection box isn’t far behind. I see some really cute mittens that any little boy or girl would love to have for the winter season,” said Johnson. For more information call Greenberg at 814-3685648 or email beckygreenberg@behcr.com.
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NOVEMBER 30, 2021
Supply issues and price increases impact Christmas trees tree farms from down state,” stated Fetter. Supply chain issues, Several factors concernshortage of truck drivers ing this trend are at work. and increased wait times Farmers struggling after for shipped items are not only threatening gift giving this holiday season, but may hamper the ability to get a tree to place said gifts under as well. A c c o rd i n g to the Associated Press, “Experts said tree buyers should expect to pay more for both live trees and artificial trees this year and also have a smaller selection to choose from.” K e r r y Fetter, owner of one of the few Christmas tree farms serving the local area, Fetter’s Tree Farm on East Main Street in Smethport, echoed the sentiments stated in the Associated Press. The Fetters have personally seen such the economic recession in an uptick in business over 2009 planted fewer trees for the past four or five years, several years, and demand according to Fetter, that it has been rising in the last has vastly depleted their several years, according to inventory — making it scarce to find a tree above 7 feet in the fields of his farm. “We officially open this Friday, after Thanksgiving, and are expecting to be very busy over the weekend. Because of all the shortages being a common news item, I expect an early rush of individuals wishing to get a tree before they possibly sell out. “Frankly, it is a real possibility — it happened last year, not on our farm but some other Pennsylvania BY DANIELLA GRIESBAUM
School funding research shows gaps in local counties BY MARCIE SCHELLHAMMER A lawsuit on school funding adequacy is continuing in Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court. How does it impact the local region? The Education Law Center of Pennsylvania and the Public Interest Law Center, which are representing the petitioners in the case, created a website to show the underfunding in each district across Pennsylvania. “In 2008, state law set a benchmark for calculating the resources that schools need so that their students have a shot at reaching state academic standards,” read a statement on the Fund Our Schools website. As part of the lawsuit, Dr. Matthew Kelly, a professor at Penn State’s College of Education, calculated the amount needed in each district to meet the state’s benchmark, finding that 277 districts need more than $2,000 additional funding per student to support their learning needs. According to the site, locally, only two school districts were adequately funded using the state’s benchmark — Potter County’s Austin Area School District, which has 163 total students; and Elk County’s Johnsonburg Area School District, which has a total enrollment of 576 students. According to the website, the district with the largest shortfall locally is the St. Marys Area School District, with a shortfall of $3,533 per student. Enrollment in the district is 2,032. Kane Area School District would need an additional $2,990 per student. Enrollment is 1,111. Next would be Bradford Area School District, which would need an additional $2,857 per student to make the benchmark. Enrollment is 2,551. Port Allegany and Coudersport school districts each would need an additional $2,210 per student. Enrollment for the districts is 901 and 763, respectively. Otto-Eldred School District was reported as having a shortfall of $1,874 per student. Enrollment is 619. Northern Potter School
District had a shortfall of $1,708 per student. Enrollment is 522. Ridgway Area School District had a shortfall of $1,494 per student, with an enrollment of 805 students. Smethport Area School District would need an additional $1,219 per student to meet the state’s benchmark, the website indicated. Enrollment is 776. Oswayo Valley School District had a shortfall of $1,204 per student, with an enrollment of 413. Galeton Area School District had a shortfall of $442 per student, with an enrollment of 362. Cameron County School District had the smallest shortfall locally, at $342 per student, with an enrollment of 555.
the Associated Press. “Our most popular tree is the Douglas Fir, followed by just about any other fir tree, and they typically take
between 8 to 10 years to mature and reach 6 to 8 feet in height. So because not as many trees were planted years ago, the supply just
isn’t meeting the demand,” said Fetter. Graham’s Greenhouse General Manager Michelle Hayden explained that due to high demand and shortage of artificial trees this year, they have decided to offer real Christmas trees at the greenhouse. “We had wreaths last year for the holidays and received a lot of inquiries into the potential sale of Christmas trees. So with this year’s predicted shortages for the fake trees it was decided that it would be an awesome opportunity if we could offer residents a more authentic option for their Christmas this year,” said Hayden. Shipments of artificial trees have been delayed this year due to supply chain issues including a shortage of truck drivers to make deliveries, stated the Associated Press.