The next 250 years: Powering America’s future
As America marks 250 years, and National Fuel approaches its own 125year milestone, Seneca Resources celebrates progress forged over generations. For centuries, the advancement of our nation has been driven by local communities — from farms to factories and small towns that serve as economic engines. Pennsylvania has played a leading role in this success story, and at Seneca Resources, the exploration and production segment of National Fuel, we take pride in being part of this legacy. With over a century of history in Pennsylvania, our mission is straightforward yet impactful: provide good-paying local jobs, supply reliable domestic energy, and serve as a long-term
partner to communities. Today, the natural gas we produce is essential for heating homes, sustaining local businesses, and supporting the manufacturing and services that strengthen our towns.
The natural gas industry in 2026 is markedly different from the past, an evolution driven by technology, data, and accountability. At Seneca Resources, innovation transcends efficiency; it encompasses safety and environmental stewardship. Our modern well pads utilize advanced sensors and real-time monitoring systems, enabling our teams to continuously track performance. New technologies have dramatically reduced emissions and improved safety, while horizontal drilling minimizes our surface impact. Enhanced infrastructure
Provided As America marks 250 years, and National Fuel approaches its own 125-year milestone,
and methane reduction efforts help protect our shared environment. Our commitment to updating equipment, training, and protocols ensures we adhere to the highest standards of responsible
development. We understand that the land we work on will outlast us, leading us to approach every project with a long-term perspective: to protect what is present today and restore
the land for future generations.
However, “doing it right” doesn’t stop at the edge of a well pad.
Seneca Resources actively invests in the communities where our employees
live and work, supporting local food banks, educational programs, first responders, and conservation initiatives across the commonwealth. “Fueling Strong Communities” isn’t just a slogan; it reflects our commitment to invest our time, talent, and resources into the places we call home. As America celebrates 250 years, we reflect on how our local communities have shaped the nation’s story and look ahead to how the next 250 years will unfold. Responsible local energy will remain essential to Pennsylvania’s future. With a focus on sustainable operations, environmental stewardship, and significant investment in the people we serve, Seneca Resources is committed to Fueling a Better Tomorrow here at home.
McCourt Label builds on legacy of leadership, innovation
For nearly 130 years, McCourt Label has remained a resilient and respected presence in the Bradford area business community. The company’s longevity is rooted in a simple but powerful philosophy: evolve with customers, invest in innovation, and build lasting relationships. That commitment has defined McCourt Label across generations and continues to guide the company forward.
As customer expectations and industry demands change, McCourt has responded by strengthening its leadership team, promoting experienced employees into key roles, and investing in new equipment and services. These efforts ensure the company remains competitive while preserving the craftsmanship and service standards that have long set it apart.
Among recent leadership advancements, Joe Tigani has been promoted to sales manager. With 25 years of experience in the label manufacturing industry, Tigani brings deep expertise in customer relationship development, sales optimization, and market expansion. In his new role, he oversees sales operations, leads new business initiatives, and works closely with existing customers to strengthen partnerships. His focus on innovative sales strategies supports McCourt’s continued growth while enhancing customer engagement.
Jessica Whiteman continues in her role as purchasing and customer service manager, where she plays a vital part in both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. With 25 years at McCourt, Whiteman
manages sourcing, supplier relationships, and contract negotiations to ensure materials and services are acquired cost-effectively. Her dual focus on purchasing and customer service helps maintain strong vendor partnerships while ensuring customers receive responsive, reliable support.
Chad Clark has been promoted to controller, bringing financial leadership to McCourt’s next chapter. Responsible for accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls, Clark plays a critical role in maintaining accuracy, compliance, and informed decision-making.
McCourt Label has also invested in advanced color proofing technology to further enhance print accuracy and consistency. New proofing equipment, including an Epson SureColor P5000 paired with GMG Color Management software, allows the company to produce highly accurate, color-managed proofs for four-color process flexographic printing. This investment ensures customers can approve designs with confidence before production begins.
In January 2026, McCourt’s commitment to environmental responsibility was reaffirmed with the successful completion of its ISO 14001:2015 audit. The company actively monitors its environmental practices to remain compliant with regulatory, supplier, and customer requirements, while pursuing initiatives focused on scrap reduction and renewable energy integration. McCourt Label serves a wide range of industries, including manufacturing
identification, inventory, food and beverage, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and automotive. From its Lewis Run facility, the company ships custom labeling solutions locally, nationally, and internationally, reaching customers in Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Ireland, Uganda, France, and Singapore. The company’s approach goes beyond a traditional supplier relationship, emphasizing true partnership. McCourt works with well-known local and regional brands such as Zippo, Case Cutlery, ARG, Pepperell, LabelPack Automation, Bradford Forest, Cooper, and Beacon Light. Local craft beverage producers — including Flickerwood Wine Cellars, Twisted Vine, Little Mountain Winery, and CJ Spirits — rely on McCourt for high-end labels and dependable turnaround times.
As a long-standing member of the Bradford business community, McCourt Label is a strong supporter of the United Way and other local organizations. Several employees have completed the Leadership McKean program, and the company encourages innovation at all levels to help customers promote their products and grow their brands. With an 80 percent repeat-business rate, McCourt Label’s success reflects its enduring commitment to quality, innovation, and partnership. As a family-owned company, McCourt takes pride in fostering strong relationships with both employees and customers — delivering exceptional service, meticulous craftsmanship, and Solutions That Stick. For more information, visit McCourtLabel.com or call 800-4582390.
Seneca Resources celebrates progress forged over generations.
Dresser Utility Solutions: Honoring a legacy of service, community support, and infrastructure excellence
For more than 145 years, Dresser Utility Solutions has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing highly engineered infrastructure products for critical applications in the natural gas and utility industries, including the water, gas, and electric sectors.
Deeply rooted in innovation, Dresser is recognized as a pioneer in pipe coupling and repair, as well as a longstanding supporter of the Bradford community.
Boasting a workforce of roughly 170 employees, many of them lifelong Bradford residents who have dedicated decades of service, Dresser fosters a strong culture of loyalty and commitment.
As a proud Bradford-based organization, Dresser
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commemorative booklet that will accompany the Collectible. These names, photos and testimonials will also be featured in a dedicated social media campaign and a corresponding webpage.
Finally, Zippo is busy preparing for America’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations with a first-of-its kind product launch, officially
licensed America250™ designs and a July 2 event in conjunction with McKean County’s America250 commission, which was announced earlier this month.
Zippo will also collaborate with Case for the fourth annual Made in Bradford event at the Zippo/Case Museum & Flagship Store. Slated for Saturday, July 18, the event spotlights local
actively embraces its role as a community partner, participating in numerous local events and charitable initiatives. From supporting the Pink Pumpkin Project and the Corporate Challenge to participating in the ELF Fund, Dresser is more than a manufacturer; it is a valued and engaged member of the community.
The company’s success is built on its dedication to advancing infrastructure solutions. Known for its trusted pipe coupling and repair technologies, Dresser has earned a reputation for reliability and performance. Its products are designed with user convenience in mind, offering easy installation and a long-standing track record of durability.
By minimizing the potential for installation errors, Dresser ensures a smooth experience for both seasoned professionals and new operators.
As aging infrastructure presents new challenges, Dresser continues to innovate and adapt — particularly in response to evolving regulatory requirements.
The acquisition of Kobus Pipe Puller in Pasadena, Texas, in April 2025 strengthened Dresser’s presence in the pipe replacement industry, expanding its capabilities and enhancing its product portfolio. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements. Dresser Utility Solutions remains committed to its focus on quality, reliability and customer service.
The company’s enduring standards have solidified its role as a trusted partner in addressing the complex issues associated with failing infrastructure. Even
after 145 years, the original “Dresser coupling” continues to be widely regarded as the industry benchmark for quality and durability.
makers, artisans and craftspeople in honor of the Bradford area’s rich history of innovation and creativity. Zippo invites readers to follow the Zippo/Case Museum & Flagship Store on Facebook and visit zippocasemuseum. com to stay up to date on registration details and all upcoming events.
The USA-made
Insert
tures rugged, solid-zinc construction, comes with four interchangeable screwdriver bits and is available on its own or already configured in a dedicated Zippo case.
Provided
Dresser Utility Solutions remains committed to its focus on quality, reliability and customer service.
Dresser is recognized as a pioneer in pipe coupling and repair.
Zippo
Bit Safe Screwdriver
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Crews recently pulled cable through underground conduit for three power lines that exit the Bradford West Substation. The lines are capable of carrying more electricity and will allow system operators flexibility to transfer customers from one line to another if there is a problem with the line that usually serves them. Outside the substation, the lines run up the side of utility poles in plastic tubes and continue into the community as overhead wires.
McKean Co. Penelec customers benefit from recent upgrades
ERIE — FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Co., a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., known in northwestern Pennsylvania as Penelec, has completed a major upgrade in McKean County to provide more reliable and resilient electric service for more than 1,000 Bradford and Bradford Township customers.
FirstEnergy Pennsylvania crews recently installed new underground lines that connect to the Bradford West Substation. These new lines can carry more power, which helps make the system stronger and more reliable. They also give grid operators more flexibility to switch customers to a different line if there’s ever an issue with the one that normally serves their home or business. New underground cable for three power lines served by a local substation is helping to reduce outages, speed power restoration and support local growth. The project builds on work completed in 2024, when Penelec installed a new substation transformer that delivers more electricity and better meets the community’s power needs.
John Hawkins, FirstEnergy president, Pennsylvania, said, “We know how much our customers count on reliable electricity every day to brighten their homes and power their businesses. We’re investing in new equipment to get ahead of outages before they happen — and respond faster when they do. These upgrades are expected to make a real difference for the Bradford community.”
The work includes the following:
• Installing stronger cables: New, bigger underground wires can carry more electricity to local homes and businesses.
• Adding backup capabilities: Redundant power lines mean customers can be switched to another line to minimize power outages when issues arise.
• Protecting new equipment: Sturdy plastic pipes better protect underground power lines from water, road salt and corrosive soil to keep electricity more reliable.
• Completing additional upgrades in 2026: Adjustments to existing pole-top equipment in the coming year will make it easier to reroute electricity and further reduce outages.
The upgrades are part of First Energy PA’s Long Term Infrastructure Improvement Plan (LTIIP) III, which fast-tracks important investments in electric system reliability. The LTIIP III investment for Penelec’s service area is $538 million.
LTIIP is part of Energize365, FirstEnergy’s long-term investment program to modernize the electric grid.
FirstEnergy plans to invest $28 billion through Energize365 between 2025 and 2029.
The goal: a smarter, more secure grid that meets the needs of today’s customers and tomorrow’s growth.
Penelec serves approximately 597,000 customers within 17,600 square miles of northern and central Pennsylvania and western New York.
How an electronics
in Bradford supports AI and its infrastructure
Last year, we explored how KOA Speer impacts two major local industries, energy and logging. This year, we’ll look at how we support artificial intelligence. First, however, what does KOA Speer do?
In short, we supply billions of resistors that are shipped throughout the Americas.
What is a resistor, you ask? It is a small electronic component that controls how much electricity flows through a circuit. It works like a valve in a water pipe – it doesn’t stop the flow entirely but slows it down to a safe and useful level.
In the modern technological landscape, they are critical enablers of highspeed computation, infrastructure reliability and stable power delivery.
Fueling Artificial Intelligence
In the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), power supply units provide the massive power required to run these high-end specialty semiconductors. Resistors are used to handle high power surges and dissipate heat efficiently.
Their robust construction allows them to operate in high-heat environments, typical of densely packed AI racks, often reaching temperatures where less durable components would fail. On the flip side, they limit power so the delicate silicon of AI chips receives just the right amount of voltage.
They are also used in signal conditioning to minimize electrical noise in high-speed networking to retain signal integrity.
Sustaining Data Centers
As AI drives a surge in data demand, resistors serve as the “silent guardians” of data center uptime. Modern data centers are dense, power-hungry environments that must operate 24/7 with minimal downtime. Current-sense resistors are used to optimize energy efficiency and maintain uninterrupted operation in these high-performance servers.
Role in Electrical Power Transmission
In high-voltage electrical transmission, resistors are indispensable for grid safety and efficiency. Thick-film power resistors are commonly found in smart grids, substations and high-voltage equipment, where they perform functions such as voltage balancing, overcurrent protection and damping of transient signals. In contrast, thin-film resistors are used in measurement, sensing and
protection circuits within control electronics that monitor voltage, current and frequency across the grid.
A Legacy of Innovation KOA Speer’s roots trace back to Speer Resistor, established in St. Marys, Pa., in the early 1950s.
The company later became Airco Speer before merging with KOA Corporation on April 1, 1980, forming KOA Speer Electronics, Inc. Today, as a subsidiary of Japanbased KOA Corporation, KOA Speer provides warehousing, distribution, engineering, research, marketing and sales support across the Americas. KOA Corporation, publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, employs over 4,000 people across 24 facilities worldwide. While KOA produces a variety of passive electronic components, we are best known for our expertise in resistors — a reputation built on decades of quality, service and innovation.
Rooted in community, reaching the world
A campus where students learn, lead, belong
By SARA FURLONG s.furlong@bradfordera.com
Tucked between the ridgelines of west Bradford lies a diverse and vibrant campus where students from 36 states and 28 countries gather to learn, lead and belong.
While 87 colleges and universities across the U.S. have closed in the last five years, enrollment is up at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. That success has not come without its challenges as the number of high school graduates declines; the area’s changing demographics from birth rates and migration; increased competition for fewer students, from trade schools, the military, the Peace Corps and more; and the rising costs of higher education.
“There are simply fewer students to engage,” James Baldwin, vice president for Enrollment Management at Pitt-Bradford, said.
At 1,097 students enrolled in the fall 2025 semester, Pennsylvania is the college’s primary market, comprising about two-thirds of the student body. Of the commonwealth’s 67 total counties, 55 counties are represented, the top five being McKean, 21.9%; Allegheny, 6.3%; Warren, 4.4%; Elk, 3.3%; and Potter, 2.6%. New York natives and residents of all other states make up about 17% each.
Upwards of three-quarters of enrolled students, 76.5%, live on campus.
Baldwin said the college’s current maximum dormitory capacity is 1,080 beds — “assuming a perfect
distribution of men and women and students with or without accommodation needs.”
“Ideally, it’s around 1,040,” he said.
“We have students from Canada, Germany, China, Greece, India, Israel, Jamaica, Mexico (and more),”
Baldwin observed. “We have a great story — two students, one from Ukraine, one from Russia. They both gave presentations through the Halloran Fellowship at the Watson Institute. Wonderful students, great people.”
According to self-reported statistics provided by PittBradford, close to 69% of students are white, just less than 11% Black, about 8% Hispanic/Latino and nearly 4% multiracial.
Of the university’s total student body, 41.6% are first-generation college students, and many are eligible for and receive some kind of financial assistance such as federal Pell grants, merit awards or donor scholarships.
Pitt-Bradford’s top 10 declared majors are business management, 9%; biology/pre-medicine and nursing/ pre-nursing, 7.7% each; psychology, 5.7%; mechanical engineering technology and exercise science, both 5.6%; computer information systems and technology, 5.1%; early level education (preK-4), 4.9%; criminal justice, 4.5%; and forensic science, 4.3%.
Baldwin said, “Our largest increases have been in accounting, business management, communications, education, engineering, environmental science, environmental studies, forensic science, and then pre-nursing, pre-medicine and pre-radiological science.”
Beacon Light continues to focus on mental wellness and recovery
Beacon Light Behavioral Health System and Beacon Light Adult Residential Services continue to shine a spotlight on the importance of mental health in Pennsylvania. As affiliates of Journey Health System, these organizations are dedicated to promoting well-being and raising awareness about mental health issues in the communities they serve. With nearly 60 million adults in the U.S. experiencing mental illness in the past year, as reported by the Mental Health Association, this initiative is more crucial than ever.
Understanding the impact of mental health Mental health affects everyone, regardless of age or background. It’s not just an individual concern; it affects families, schools, and communities at large. Mental well-being is an integral part of overall health and seeking support is not a sign of weakness, but rather a step toward healing.
Comprehensive services for all ages
Overall, Beacon Light has established itself as one of the largest and most respected mental health organizations in Pennsylvania for over 120 years. The organization offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of both children and adults.
For children aged 17 and under, services include:
Outpatient Clinics in Bradford, Tionesta & Warren School-based Outpatient Sites in Forest Area & and Warren County school districts
Community and Schoolbased behavioral health in several school districts
Intensive behavioral health services
Multi-systematic therapy
Family-based mental health
Blended case management
Student assistance program
Beacon Light Academy And residential programs, such as:
* First Street residential treatment facility in Bradford
* Specialized therapeutic residence for intellectual & developmental empowerment
* Short-term adolescent recovery
* Girls in recovery learning strengths
* Youngsville specialty residential treatment.
In addition, the Girls in Recovery Learning Strengths (GIRLS) program at Beacon Light Behavioral Health System is gearing up for renovations of nearly 4,000 sq. ft. at their First Street location in Bradford, starting this spring.
The upgraded living spaces will also include a new activity room, a modern kitchen and updated restrooms. These facility improvements are designed to create a positive care environment for female clients, aged 13 to 18, who are working through their mental health journeys.
The project’s progress will be announced in the future.
For adults, services extend to:
* Outpatient Clinics in Warren and soon in Bradford
* Common Ground decision support center
* Site-based psych rehab
* Mobile medication management
* Peer support
* Community stabilization and reintegration unit (CSRU)
* Mental health and intellectual developmental disability group homes
* Community-based intermediate care facilities. These diverse offerings ensure that individuals from all walks of life have access to the care they need.
A dedicated team committed to healing
The success of Beacon Light can be attributed not only to its comprehensive services but also to its compassionate mental healthcare staff. Beacon Light appreciates their employees who guide individuals during their most challenging moments, facilitate healing, growth and independence. Their dedication to supporting people through tough times is commendable, and there is always room for more passionate individuals to join the team.
Beyond awareness: A call to action
The organization believes in fostering a culture where reducing stigma and promoting well-being is a daily commitment. They encourage everyone to reach out, explore the available services, and recognize that help is always just a call away. Beacon Light declares, “There is always hope, and there is always help”. For those seeking a new, impactful career or wanting to learn more about Beacon Light’s programs, visit beacon-light.org.
Pitt-Bradford’s most recent job placement rate clocked in at 93%, Baldwin shared.
The largest student organizations include Student Activities Council, Student Government Association, Black Student Union, PanthersforPaws and the Dungeon Divers, a Dungeons & Dragons club.
Additional clubs include Christ in Action, Board Game Club, Environmental Club and Pilates Club. Notable events are Winterfest, with a tree lighting and carriage rides; Club Night, when students can explore options; Stuff It Up, a Build-A-Bear-style event; and a haunted house, Grocery Bingo and the monthly Kitty Café — all of which draw students in the hundreds.
“We also run a beach volleyball tournament, a Darien Lake trip, snow tubing at Holiday Valley, a spikeball tournament and a Niagara Falls trip,” Baldwin noted. “We put out a weekly calendar of events — there’s at least one thing every day, often two or three. For a small campus, I’m really pretty amazed at how much we can do to give students options and things to keep busy at night.”
More than 26% are listed on one of the college’s athletic rosters, and many take part in intramural sports like volleyball, softball, flag football, basketball and soccer. “Athletics is an important part of so many high school students’ lives, and we want to give them the opportunity to continue that passion,” Baldwin said. “We’re the only AMCC school that has placed students in the major leagues — I believe we’ve had four so far. So
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The Student Assistance Program team at Beacon Light Behavioral Health System attends community outreach events.
Trail Central ‘trolling’ for fun in McKean Co.
Trail Central at the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau is the destination marketing organization for McKean County. We have spent the last year listening to business owners and residents and we are thrilled to introduce the reimagined 56-page Adventure Guide to assist in planning your friends, family and guests’ visit to your hometown area. View the adventure guide at VisitANF.com/ AdventureGuide.
Tourism continues to be a strong economic driver for McKean County with the highest visitor spending and hotel stays along with providing jobs for 1,200 people. Tourism
works for everyone in McKean County, driving visitor spending to the region and providing tax relief to the residents.
Historic downtown Bradford will soon have an interactive walking tour. Uncover Bradford’s fascinating past as you walk in the footsteps of the early oil barons. The tour will feature plaques on 30 buildings with an
interactive app that offers an audio tour and website with photos and more detailed information. We are called Trail Central for a reason. With over 500 miles of trails in the ANF and five trail clubs procuring nearly another 100 miles of trails throughout the county, we will soon have an interactive trail map to guide people to the
LabelPack Automation: 25 years of growth, innovation, community
This year marks a huge milestone for Labelpack Automation: 25 years in business!
As we celebrate, we’re looking back on another year of incredible growth, new technology, and our deep commitment to both our customers and our community.
We’ve been busy expanding across the country, building stronger partnerships, and helping manufacturers work smarter with our custom labeling and automation solutions. We’ve had our hands full with projects all over the country, working in industries from veterinary supplies and asphalt to cannabis and bakeries.
One of our biggest jobs this year was designing and building 14 different machines for a major roofing materials manufacturer. While we love working with businesses here at home, word has gotten out.
Our knack for solving tricky labeling challenges has taken us far and wide, with recent installations in Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Ohio, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wyoming. No two jobs are the same, and that’s where our team shines.
We work side-by-side with our customers to figure out exactly what they need, building solutions that speed up their production lines, improve accuracy, and make sure every single product is labeled perfectly, every time.
We don’t just build the machines; we also engineer the labels that run on them. A highlight this year was developing and programming new PRO labels for a nationwide transportation and logistics provider.
We now program, source, and ship over 6 million of these labels a year to 280 of their freight terminals across
the U.S. and Canada, giving them the power to track shipments from start to finish.
Technology in our field changes fast, so we make it a priority to stay ahead of the curve.
We’re a proud partner of Zebra Technologies, a global leader in label printers and scanners. We supply their full line of products and, more importantly, back them up with expert service and support.
Our technicians are trained in Zebra printer repair, which means our customers get fast, dependable maintenance from technicians who know what they’re doing. We also hit the road this year, exhibiting at major trade shows in Atlanta and Philadelphia.
It was a great way to connect face-to-face with manufacturers looking to automate their labeling, and we walked away with a pipeline of new projects and long-term relationships that we’re still excited about. For us, success isn’t just about business — it’s also about being a part of our community. You’ll find our team members serving on local boards, coaching kids’ sports teams, and volunteering with the fire department.
This commitment is just part of who we are. The same spirit of leadership and collaboration we bring to our customers, we bring to our hometown.
So, what’s next? We’re focused on bringing new ideas to the table, providing the responsive service our customers count on, and getting better at what we do every day.
Building on the momentum of the past year — and with a growing national presence and an engaged, community-minded team — we’re fired up to help even more manufacturers streamline their work and embrace the future of smart automation.
various hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling trails. Art in the Wilds will celebrate its 20th year of bringing a juried art show to Kane’s Evergreen Park. Trail Central is helping the festival celebrate two decades by welcoming the Pittsburgh Glass Center’s Hot Wheels glass blowing demonstrations during the festival’s two days, June 27 & 28. Squatchfest returns for its 9th year at the Kane Family Drive-In with headlining tribute concerts from Hotel California – The Original Eagles Tribute Band, Captain Fantastic – The Magic of Elton John and 52nd St – The Music of Billy Joel.
Other noteworthy events coming to McKean County this summer are Bradford’s Festa Italiana, August 6-8, Mount
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Division III can still be a route for professional players.”
Pitt-Bradford is also home to four Greek chapters, sororities Lambda Xi and Zeta Alpha Chi, and fraternities Gamma Psi Omega and Phi Kappa Epsilon.
If area residents have noticed Pitt-Bradford student clubs and teams involved in more community events — like the annual Christmas parade and Pumpkin Fest — they are not imagining it.
“I think the students were starving for that
way to connect and do something — to help and to be part of something bigger than just their campus,” Baldwin reasoned. “They’ve just been hungry to go out and do something.”
The Kitty Cafe is a partnership between the university and the McKean County SPCA, where students often volunteer to clean and walk dogs.
Jewett’s Swedish Festival, August 7-8, the McKean County Fair, August 9 – 15 and the Sonshine Festival, August 28-30. Over the next 18 months, McKean County will be preparing to welcome giants as troll sculptures will be coming in September 2027. Trail Central will become Troll Central as Trolls in the Forest, a world class public art experience by internationally renowned artist Thomas Dambo, will come to three locations –Bradford, Kane and somewhere in between. This ambitious project features three, giant hand-built troll sculptures crafted entirely from recycled and reclaimed materials that will be built with the assistance of McKean County residents. Standing as high as 40 feet tall, these guardians
Baldwin said, “You’re an athlete, you’re a student, but you’re also part of a community. What does that mean? How can you give back? Our students are looking for more opportunities to be leaders, to engage and to volunteer.”
He said Rick Esch’s presidency has strengthened the connection between the campus and the city. Esch, a longtime Bradford resident and advocate, “knew the people, and the people knew Rick — there was a sense of familiarity, comfort and trust.”
Many students start out at Pitt-Bradford, intending to transfer to the main campus in Oakland, then “fall in love with Bradford and the campus,” Baldwin said.
He continued, “I’ve lived here 26 years. I’m not originally from Bradford, but every year it
of nature will be Dambo’s first permanent installation in Pennsylvania, putting McKean County on the international troll hunting map. The Bureau will continue to offer the semi-annual marketing and event matching grant program to assist organizations and businesses in promoting McKean County as a travel destination. With more than $50,000 distributed since the program started in 2024, the Bureau’s grant program is available to any business and organization in McKean County. Trail Central is committed to making McKean County a welcoming place that residents can have pride in calling home. Keep up with the progress at PATrailCentral.com and on Facebook or Instagram.
gets better — the community, the people, the city government. Everybody is working to make Bradford better.” Area residents are invited to explore the PittBradford campus, from a walk on the Richard E. McDowell Community Trail that might veer onto UPB grounds, to events like Founders Day or Alumni and Family Weekend, to regularly offered open houses and campus tours.
“We can’t survive without Bradford, and I think Bradford would struggle without the campus,” Baldwin stated. “We’re all in this together.”
Partnership addressing region’s dental care with new clinic
By SARA FURLONG s.furlong@bradfordera.com
Area residents seeking dental care can face a wait list that is months, or even years, long.
“Every three years,”
Universal Primary Care (UPC) Chief Executive Officer Brett Lawton said, “UPC conducts a health needs assessment for our service area, and for the past six years one message has been clear: our community has a significant need for dental care.
“We see it when patients with dental emergencies have nowhere to turn but the emergency department or urgent care,” Lawton continued. “We see it in months-long waits for appointments and in long dental waiting lists — especially for people with Medicaid or no dental insurance.”
To address the issue, UPC has partnered with Pitt-Bradford and Olean General Hospital to open a dental care clinic at Old City Hall, 23 Kennedy St., where staff will see their first patients Monday.
Adding the new dental clinic was a priority in UPC’s 2022-25 strategic plan, Lawton emphasized. The company has partnered with the Bradford Office of Economic and Community Development to open the downtown location.
The clinic is nearly fully staffed with two dentists, a hygienist and dental assistants who, Lawton said, are ready to care for the Bradford community and surrounding areas.
“We’re proud to offer affordable dental care for everyone, regardless of insurance — or
no insurance at all,” Lawton said. UPC is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), which provides services regardless of insurance, income or ability to pay — any member of the community can go to UPC and receive treatment. Depending upon income, these services may be of no cost to the person seeking treatment because payment is based on a sliding fee scale.
Universal Primary Care’s legal name is Southern Tier Community Health Center Network Inc. It was first established and still operates in Cuba, N.Y., and is headquartered now at 135 N. Union St. in Olean, N.Y. It also has New York locations in Houghton and Salamanca.
Dr. Jaehee Williamson, dental director, said, “Oral health is an integral part of overall
health and quality of life. We are truly excited to increase access to much-needed dental care. Opening this clinic represents an important step toward promoting preventive services and supporting the longterm health of the community.”
The regional training center offers residents of Bradford and the surrounding area the opportunity to enroll in two educational programs.
The Dental Hygiene Program is a two-year program that results in a bachelor’s degree from Pitt. A year of prerequisite courses can be taken at Pitt-Bradford. The Dental Assistant Training Program is a nine-month program that trains dental assistants to work in private practice dental offices. Both are hybrid programs, with classroom training delivered online
and clinical training taking place at the regional training center. This hybrid format allows students to complete either program without having to relocate and sets the stage for them to stay in their community as they seek employment.
For information on how to apply to the programs, visit the Pitt Dental Medicine regional training centers website.
“This project is a stellar example of how we can strengthen our community through collaboration,” said state Sen. Cris Dush, R-Brookville. “I look forward to seeing how the regional training center and new dental programs enhance both health and education in the district.”
“The lack of high-quality dental services is a critical issue for the region, and this Regional Training
Center will go a long way toward filling that gap,” said state Rep. Martin Causer, R-Turtlepoint. “I applaud the efforts of all partners involved for working together to meet the needs of our community.”
“We are really looking forward to collaborating with Pitt Dental Medicine and our local partners,” said Rick Esch, president of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, which will deliver the predental hygiene curriculum as part of the initiative.
“This program will provide the education and preparation students need to become successful dental professionals and will help to enhance access to dental care in our rural communities.”
Dental hygiene students will provide dental cleanings and licensed dentists completing a residency program will provide most other dental care.
All residents and students will work under the supervision of Pitt Dental Medicine faculty, officials said.
“As the sponsor of the residencies for this program, we look forward to both improving access to care for local patients and broadening access to education,” said Bradley Chapman, president, Bradford Regional Medical Center and OGH. “Partnerships like this bring the community together around a shared goal and highlight the commitment that makes our region such a great place to live and work.”
Marnie Oakley, dean of Pitt Dental Medicine, said, “Pitt Dental Medicine is committed
to developing programs to help address the critical decline in dental auxiliaries across the profession and to improve access to care across the commonwealth. We fully understand the impact of this trend on our profession, especially in rural areas.” Contact the clinic at (716) 375-7500. An open house and ribbon cutting will be held at 5 p.m. Feb. 9. Parking is available in the back lot as well as on Kennedy and Boylston streets. Currently, UPC occupies a small clinic at 159 Interstate Parkway but has purchased Bradford Regional Medical Center’s former SMART physical and occupational therapy facility at 2 N. Center St. The move will more than triple the space the Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) has to offer up its services, which span from birth to end of life.
“We’re actively raising $6.5 million to make this vision a reality,” Lawton said, “and we’re excited about what’s ahead.” The clinic will remain at Old City Hall, while the residency and dental hygienist programs will transition to 2 Center St., training general practice dental residents, hygienists and assistants.
UPC Chief Operating Officer Mike Austin, lifelong Bradford resident, said, “Our community dentists have done an amazing job providing care and we’re glad to be a local partner assisting with the high demand.
“Having a strong community,” Austin said, “starts with having access to good, quality healthcare and we want to make sure this care is available and sustainable for everyone.”
Futures represents independence, community connection
Futures’ commitment to expanding meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities continues to grow through innovative initiatives like our Small Group Employment program and the recent purchase of our vending machine business. Together, these efforts represent more than job placements, they represent independence, confidence, and a stronger connection to the community.
Small Group Employment is designed to support individuals who thrive in a team-based environment while still developing the skills necessary to succeed in competitive employment settings. Participants work alongside peers with similar abilities while receiving guidance and coaching from trained staff.
This structure allows individuals to build practical job skills, improve communication, and gain valuable real-world work experience in a supportive environment.
One of the most exciting developments within this program is the acquisition of Kinzua Vending. By acquiring and managing local vending machines, Futures has created a hands-on employment opportunity that allows program participants to engage in meaningful work with visible results. Tasks such as stocking machines, organizing inventory, cleaning equipment, and maintaining product displays provide individuals with responsibility and a sense of ownership over their work.
Beyond the practical job tasks, our Small Group program helps participants learn valuable workplace skills such as time management, teamwork, customer awareness, and problem solving.
These are transferable skills that can open doors to other employment opportunities in the future. Participants also gain a sense of pride when they see their work directly impacting the community, whether it’s sweeping floors at Allegheny Store Fixtures or cleaning golf carts at Pine Acres Golf Course, maintaining that connection with local businesses is extremely important. This program also strengthens Futures’ presence in the community.
Each connection represents a partnership with local businesses that share our commitment to inclusion and opportunity. These partnerships help demonstrate the value that individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce when given the right support and opportunities. Most importantly, initiatives like Small Group Employment reinforce Futures’ mission of empowering individuals to reach their full potential. Meaningful employment is about more than earning a paycheck, it is about dignity, independence, and belonging.
As Futures continues to grow, programs like these ensure that the individuals we support have access to real opportunities that build confidence, skills, and lasting connections within the community. Are you a local business needing assistance? Reach out, we’d love to discuss our options to help you! Contact Director of Employment Services, Mark Raecher at mraecher@futuresinc.net or call at 814-3684101, ext. 258.
Era photo by Savannah Barr
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Monday evening for Universal Primary Care (UPC) dental clinic, at Old City Hall, 23 Kennedy St., Suite 101. Pictured are Brett Lawton, chief executive officer; Dr. Stacy Hey; Dr. Jaehee Williamson, dental director; Mike Austin, chief operating officer; state Rep. Martin Causer, R-Turtlepoint; Ian Foss; and Ethan Lyle, chairman of the board.
Burns & Burns Insurance celebrates 87 years
For nearly nine decades, Burns & Burns Insurance has been a familiar and trusted name across Northwestern Pennsylvania. From helping families insure their first homes to protecting local businesses that power the region’s economy, the agency has built its reputation on relationships, reliability, and service.
Now celebrating 87 years in business, Burns & Burns has grown from a small home-based operation into one of the region’s most established independent insurance agencies, with nine offices throughout Northwestern Pennsylvania — includ-
ing its Bradford location. A story that began with a school principal
The company’s story began in 1939 with founder Henry Burns, a former high school principal who believed in hard work, community relationships, and putting people first. After graduating from Clarion University and the University of Pittsburgh, Burns served as principal at Porter Township High School. While working in education, he began selling insurance in the evenings. What started as a side venture quickly grew thanks to Burns’ strong work ethic and ability to connect with people. In 1948, he made the
decision to pursue insurance full time, establishing Clarion Insurance Services. His guiding philosophy — “the client above everything else” — became the foundation of the business and continues to shape the agency today. Changes in the Bradford office
Like many long-standing local businesses, the Bradford office continues to evolve while honoring the people who have helped build its success. This spring will mark the retirement of two valued members of the team. Sue Fowler, senior account manager, plans to retire in April after 30 years of dedicated service to Burns & Burns and its clients. Jennifer Smith, account manager, will also retire in April after five years with the agency. Both have been trusted resources for clients and important members of the Bradford team.
At the same time, the office is welcoming new additions. Kira Schine and Caitlin Cox recently joined Burns & Burns as office assistants. The agency looks forward to supporting them as they begin their careers in the insurance industry and grow within the organization.
A business built on community For Burns & Burns, being part of the community means more than simply operating a business — it means showing up and
Every dog has his day at Kinzua Canine
By SAVANNAH BARR
s.barr@bradfordera.com
They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but the staff of Kinzua Canine begs to differ.
“There is no such thing as old dogs who can’t learn,” said Brittany Holsinger, owner. “I have trained every age and type of dog and they all pick it up really quickly as long as they understand what we are asking them to do.”
That level of communication is often what separates a misbehaving dog from a well-behaved one. Holsinger hopes to help people bridge that gap and learn how to better communicate with their furry friends.
Her new business is located at 30 Airport Road, Unit 3, in Lewis Run. In addition to doggy daycare and day training, she offers classes in a variety of topics including pet first aid, puppy classes, adult dog training and more.
Training is by appointment but daycare hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday with dropoff between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and pickup between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. There are 12 daycare spots available each day.
“This is an enrichment-based daycare so it isn’t all just play,” said Holsinger. “We have brain-teaser feeders when they come in; then they go for walks; they have time to play with their doggie friends and then we have structured play throughout the day.”
The Kinzua Canine staff currently consists of Holsinger and two other trainers,
all of whom are dedicated to helping dog owners better understand their pooch.
“I love to get to see people make a deeper connection with their dogs,” said Holsinger. “Dogs do so much and have a huge boost of confidence when they understand what they need to do to make their owner happy.”
She notes that dogs aren’t meant to sit around all day and get their food delivered in a bowl each morning and night.
“Originally, dogs were scavengers so they are used to working a little bit for their food,” Holsinger said. “It is good for them to do a little thinking and solve a few puzzles to keep their brains active.”
Holsinger knows a well-trained dog can make a huge difference in a family’s overall quality of life.
“If we work to find out what makes them tick and what they enjoy, you start to have a much deeper and rewarding relationship with your dog,” said Holsinger.
Even those dogs who are doing well at home can benefit from socialization with other dogs. Holsinger’s many classes offer information for even the most well-seasoned dog owner.
Her ultimate goal is to keep dogs in their homes — as opposed to filling up shelters.
“The rescues are just overwhelmed and overrun at this point,” said Holsinger. “We want to use training as a tool to help try and keep dogs in their homes.”
When she begins working with a new client, Holsinger asks the owner to think back to when they first got their furry friend.
supporting the people and organizations that make the region special. Over the past year, the Bradford office has supported and sponsored a number of local events and initiatives, including the Bradford Chess Club team, the Rotary Golf Tournament, the CARE “Fore” Children Golf Tournament, the Kinzua Bridge Challenge Race, the United Way Pig Roast, Bradford Little League, and PumpkinFest on Main Street. These partnerships reflect a long-standing belief that strong communities are built when local organizations support one another. Looking toward the future
Today, Burns & Burns operates nine offices across Northwestern Pennsylvania — Clarion, Bradford, Clearfield, Erie, Meadville, Mercer, New Wilmington, Tionesta, and Warren — and works with more than 60 insurance carriers. The agency offers a wide range of coverage options including home, auto, life, business, health, Medicare plans, bonds, and work-
ers’ compensation.
While the agency has grown significantly since its early days, its mission remains the same: providing trusted guidance, reliable coverage, and personal service clients can count on.
After 87 years, Burns & Burns continues to do what it has always done — serve its neighbors, support its communities, and help protect what matters most. Whether you’re looking for a quote or seeking more information, Burns & Burns invites you to visit its Facebook page or website at www.burnsandburns.com or call 814-368-7161.
“I ask them to think about the types of activities that they imagined doing with their dog,” said Holsinger. “Then, if they aren’t already doing that activity, we take steps to make that happen.”
Dogs, of course, have their own understanding of the world. The secret to a well-behaved dog is in knowing how to speak that language.
Richgas is a family owned business serving North Central PA and Southwestern NY. We celebrated our 100th Anniversary in 2014. In 2015 we purchased the retail propane business of Bradford Nugas, from owners Jerry & Martha Craver. This was a natural merger of 2 companies with
Era photo by Sara Furlong
Authority’s new Bradford Transit Center
Caring for communities, no matter the challenge
Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and Olean (N.Y.) General Hospital (OGH), Kaleida Health facilities, are reflecting on 2025 as a year marked by financial recovery, major reinvest ment in facilities and technology, improved workplace culture and continued success in recruiting and retaining skilled physicians and staff. Together, these
enhance surgical video system towers. OGH also secured $200,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission to replace an x‑ray unit and received $17 million through New York State’s Healthcare Safety Net Transformation Program to renovate the emer gency department, along with $5 million to add a comprehensive psychiat ric emergency program.
“This is a truly
Clinical excellence and quality recognition
The year brought several quality mile stones. OGH earned certification as a Primary Stroke Center by DNV. BRMC earned labo ratory accreditation through the Accreditation Commission for Health Care and received a three‑year mammogra phy accreditation from the American College of Radiology.
efforts reinforce their commitment to providing high‑quality, compassion ate care to the communi ties they serve.
Financial strength and strategic reinvestment
BRMC and OGH strengthened their finan cial foundation over the past year, enabling more than $4 million in capital investments. Upgrades included new surgical towers, sterile processing equipment, a vascular table, IV pumps, radiol ogy improvements and dialysis chair replace ments.
OGH made addition al major investments, including $3.5 million for a state‑of‑the‑art Linear Accelerator to advance radiation therapy and $1.24 million — fund ed through communi ty philanthropy — to
transformational time for Olean General Hospital,” said Bradley J. Chapman, president of BRMC and OGH.
“The addition of a com prehensive psychiatric emergency program expands our emergen cy care capabilities for patients experiencing mental health crises, strengthens our staffing structure and ensures we have the resources to accommodate these patients. This will improve patient flow and enhance the overall experience.”
OGH also acquired a da Vinci Xi Surgical System, positioning the hospital to launch robot ic‑assisted surgeries in 2026. BRMC renovated and reopened a radiolo gy room with new imag ing technology.
Both hospitals’ med ical oncology practic es earned three‑year Quality Oncology Practice Initiative cer tification, and OGH Cardiovascular Services received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines –Coronary Artery Disease Rural Recognition Gold award. BRMC and OGH also received three‑year DNV certification and their first ISO 9001 accredita tion, reinforcing a culture of continuous quality improvement. OGH’s Dialysis Center was recertified by the New York State Department of Health. Expanding access and advancing care Access to care expand ed through new services and advanced treatments.
A new Olean Medical Group Women’s Health Clinic opened at BRMC.
OGH also performed the region’s first Intracept Procedure, led by Dr. Joseph Staszel, expand ing treatment options for chronic back pain.
Workforce growth, engagement and safety Recruitment and reten tion were major successes. BRMC and OGH wel comed a record number of new providers across primary care, neurology, women’s health, orthope dics, sports medicine and vascular surgery. OGH also recruited a record 28 graduate nurses.
Employee engage ment efforts delivered measurable improve ments. Overall employee turnover dropped from 33.36% in 2024 to 28.19% in 2025. Combined RN turnover fell from 20.07% to 14.20%. Patient experi ence scores improved as well, with “communica tion with nurses” averag ing 75.4 — exceeding the 2025 goal.
To strengthen work place culture and safety, BRMC and OGH implemented a Zero Tolerance Policy, expanded security staffing and equipment and hosted Dangerous Person Training. Regular employee town halls improved communica
tion and engagement across the organization.
Education, technology and community support
Educational partner ships continued to grow, including increased enrollment in the BRMC School of Radiography with the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford and new dental program collaborations with Pitt‑Bradford and UPC.
Regionally, Kaleida Health launched a multi‑year electronic health record upgrade, unifying BRMC, OGH and other Western New York healthcare organi zations on a single sys tem to improve continui ty of care.
Community support remained strong. The third annual Pulse of the Community Gala, hosted by the Bradford Hospital
and Olean General Hospital Foundations, raised more than $100,000 for local cancer care.
“2025 reflects what is possible when finan cial discipline, strategic investment and a focus on people come togeth er,” Chapman said.
“Health care continues to face challenges locally and nationally, but we are building a stron ger regional healthcare system, supporting our employees, advancing care close to home and positioning BRMC and OGH for a sustainable, high‑quality future.”
“As BRMC and OGH move into 2026,” officials said in a press release, “their commitment to improving the health and well‑being of the commu nities they serve remains unchanged.”
Allegheny Bradford Corporation & Allegheny Surface Technology: Powering infrastructure, creating local opportunities
Allegheny Bradford Corporation has built a reputation for more than six decades for producing high qual ity stainless steel equipment used in industries ranging from pharmaceuti cals and electronics to food processing, industrial manufacturing, and data centers. The company is also an instru mental supplier of equipment used in the manufacturing of GLP 1 products, helping pharmaceutical manufacturers expand production capacity. In many cases, this work directly impacts peo ple’s lives. For example, it helps ensure that life saving sterile medications are produced safely and are available when patients need them most.
One of the company’s fastest grow ing markets is the data center industry. These large computing facilities store and process the information people rely on every day, including mobile phone data, photos, video calls, cloud storage, and online services. They also power emerging technologies such as artifi cial intelligence that require enormous computing capacity. Because thousands of high powered computers operate continuously inside these facilities, they generate significant heat, making advanced cooling systems essential for reliable operation.
Our team fabricates custom stain less steel manifolds engineered for the critical cooling systems used in these facilities. At the same time, Allegheny Surface Technology provides spe cialized passivation treatments that maximize cooling performance while minimizing corrosion risk, helping ensure the long term reliability of these systems.
The company also continues to develop new products in response to industry needs. Recently, Allegheny Bradford introduced the ThermaRed CPD™ filter housing heating jacket, designed to help prevent condensation and bacteria buildup in sterile solutions.
Unlike many of the company’s cus tom engineered products, this heating jacket is available as a stock item, allow ing customers to receive it quickly.
As Allegheny Bradford Corporation looks toward 2026 and beyond, we remain committed to supporting critical industries including pharmaceuticals, data centers, and industrial manufac turing.
Just as important, we remain com mitted to creating opportunities for people in our community to build meaningful careers, develop valuable skills, and be part of the next generation of American manufacturing.
Today we are actively hiring labor ers, welders, polishers, technicians, engineers, field service technicians, and other professionals for positions both at our local facilities and in field service roles that travel across the United States.
Many employees begin with little or no experience and develop into skilled tradespeople or business pro fessionals.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experience levels and provide hands on training that allows employees to build long term careers in manufacturing.
Those interested in joining our team can stop by our facilities, visit abccorporate.com/employment , or find our listings on Indeed.
Submitted
BRMC partnered with Olean Medical Group to open a Women’s Health Clinic on campus, marked by a ribbon‑cutting ceremony last October.
Submitted
OGH introduced the new da Vinci Xi Surgical System last December, launching its robotic surgery capabil ities.
Momentous year for NPRC
WARREN — The year 2025 roared by, and the team at Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC) conquered. This momentum was fueled by numerous noteworthy announcements, events, and strides that benefited not only the institution but also the communities and learners it serves. Learn about several of the most important strides made by NPRC last year and what’s happened so far in 2026.
Dual Credit Innovation Grant
NPRC was awarded $1 million via a Dual Credit Innovation Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. This funding was awarded to enable more high school students to enroll in dual credit programs across the Commonwealth, giving them more opportunities to chart their own course and prepare for successful careers. As a result, the
college made dual enrollment courses free for all Pennsylvania high school students in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic years.
Academic agreement with Wilson College NPRC and Wilson College signed a guaranteed transfer agreement. This enables graduates from NPRC’s Associate of Arts in Education Studies and Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education degrees to transfer into Wilson College’s Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education or Bachelor of Arts in Special Education programs with no loss of credit. Students pursuing this path can complete their bachelor’s degree remotely, through a combination of asynchronous and live instruction, with the opportunity to fulfill their student-teaching requirements at a school local to them.
Approved to award Title IV aid
Allegheny Mountain Arts supports the creation of BRAG
By SAVANNAH BARR s.barr@bradfordera.com
Back in 2019, Greg Souchick and Rick Minard shared a vision for downtown Bradford. They dreamed it could become a place where artists could share their work, public art could bring people together and creatives could learn new skills. That vision materialized into Allegheny Mountain Arts, a gallery and workshop space located at 181 Main St.
encouraged by his father.
“My father was a lithographer, and he would bring home stacks of paper cut off the ends of the big industrial reams for me,” said Souchick. “So I have been a drawer and a doodler for pretty much all of my life.”
NPRC received official approval from the U.S. Department of Education to participate in Title IV federal student aid programs. This significant milestone enables NPRC students to apply for and receive federal financial aid to help cover the cost of their education.
Current and prospective students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using NPRC’s federal school code: 043159. Virtual reality learning tools grant
The college was selected as the recipient of the Energizing Community Education Project grant funding through the West Penn Energy Fund, receiving $41,000 to support community programming through 2026. The program is benefitting residents in Cameron, Elk, McKean, and Potter counties by enhancing their knowledge and skills involving virtual
programming in Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
reality, promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources, and contributing to the overall economic development and quality of life in the West Penn Power communities of northcentral Pennsylvania.
NPRC accredited by MSCHE NPRC was promoted from candidate for accreditation to an accredited institution on
March 12 by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Accreditation creates new opportunities for students, including eventual eligibility to enroll using G.I. Bill benefits, smoother transfer pathways for NPRC graduates to four-year institutions, and degrees that are accredited, recognized, and respected across higher educa -
tion. It also strengthens NPRC’s ability to build new partnerships with employers and organizations, expanding career and learning opportunities that benefit our students and the communities served.
For more about NPRC, head online to www.regionalcollegepa. org and discover why brighter futures begin here.
AAA Nails and Spa offers opportunity to recharge
By SAVANNAH BARR s.barr@bradfordera.com
During the busy holiday season, it is important to take time to recharge and AAA Nails and Spa offers customers the opportunity to do just that.
cial is our attention to detail and professionalism,” said Nguyen. “We want to make everyone happy.”
Skilled artists work closely with each client to ensure they leave feeling refreshed and confident.
2025 award, based on customer feedback and reviews.
“It was our dream to have a gallery and be able to display things, but Bradford didn’t have an art gallery,” said Souchik. “We came up with the idea, and since I already owned the building, it seemed a natural fit.”
Allegheny Mountain Arts functions as both a gallery and a creative workshop. Over the years, the pair have hosted one-day workshops in painting, pour painting, pen and ink drawing, card making and more.
At 115 Main St., the salon is about more than nails. It’s a space where clients can take a break from their busy routines to relax and decompress.
and Spa has become the go-to destination for nail services in the area.
“Each person is different,” said Nguyen. “So every day is different for me.”
Nguyen especially enjoys it when clients bring in photos or ideas of their own.
They host about six shows a year, featuring talented artists from across the region.
“We try to have people’s work displayed for about a month,” said Souchick. “We host our shows mostly in the spring, summer and fall, but not so much in the wintertime.”
Minard, who has taught at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford since 2011, brings a broad range of expertise. Over the years, he has taught drawing, painting, graphic design, photography, art history and printmaking.
“Acrylic painting is my favorite,” said Minard. “I consider myself primarily a painter, but I have strong skills in other areas such as graphic design and photography.”
Souchik began drawing at an early age,
“We have done quite a variety, but there is a lot more we would like to do,” said Minard. “We are always looking for new ideas.”
One of those ideas is the newly formed Bradford Region Arts Group (BRAG), a nonprofit with a mission to support and connect 2D and 3D artists across the region, not just in Bradford.
Souchick has donated the use of the building to BRAG so rent won’t be a barrier while the group establishes itself.
“We believe it is important for the community to have a place where artists can go for inspiration and support,” said Souchick.
One of BRAG’s first major projects recently wrapped up. The pair painted a beautiful patriotic mural on a wall at Union Square, visible from CVS’s prescription pickup window. The mural, featuring a dynamic flying eagle and rippling flag, celebrates America’s impending 250th anniversary.
From classic manicures to finely detailed nail art, the focus is on quality, comfort and cleanliness. The salon offers gift certificates, perfect for those still shopping for holiday gifts.
Offering a full range of services including pedicures, manicures, gel and acrylic extensions, the salon focuses on precision, cleanliness and attentive customer service.
“It is a way to test my skills, and it makes me happy to make their ideas into a reality,” she said.
In September, Nguyen was delighted when AAA Nails was recognized with a Best of Business
Nguyen said the entire staff is humbled and grateful for the support they have received from the community. The salon typically sees between 15 and 20 customers a day, and clients are encouraged to call ahead to make an appointment. Most can be scheduled within 24 hours.
For many clients, it’s not just a nail appointment, but a chance to visit with friends in a welcoming space.
“We have many people who come back over and over,” said Nguyen. “We are so thankful to be part of this community.” B-6
Since June, the salon has been under new management. With more than a decade of experience, co-owner Christine Nguyen prides herself on keeping things fresh while maintaining a commitment to quality and customer care.
“I love the work I do, making everyone feel beautiful,” said Nguyen. “I enjoy the artistry and challenge of doing nails.”
From the moment clients walk through the door, the focus is on making them feel comfortable.
Complimentary snacks add an extra touch that regulars have come to enjoy.
Customers have flocked to the business since it reopened, creating a growing base of regulars who swear by Nguyen and her team. For many, AAA Nails
“What makes us spe-
Members of the Northern Pennsylvania Regional College team are shown accepting a national award from the Rural Regional College Alliance (RRCA) during the national conference last year. NPRC garnered this award for their innovative
Photo provided AAA Nails and Spa co-owner Christine Nguyen at the Main Street salon.
