Today, local high school football is taking a back seat for a bit, as well it should.

The passing of Jane Robertson recently deserves my offer of condolences to the family, especially her longtime husband and fishing partner and my friend, Wade.

I firmly believe it was Jane who played a key role in Wade’s decision to put into words his numerous adventures in the woods and streamside. He approached me about writing for The Era and I agreed. He has done very well and has received the recognition and awards to prove it.

Eventually Jane became an integral part of his weekly columns and their bond in the outdoors, mainly fishing, became more and more apparent. When Jane successfully landed a large northern pike or other species, no one was more delighted for her than Wade.

I’m certain the opposite was true when Wade came walking through the back door and proclaimed a successful whitetail deer hunt. Bucks with 10 and 12 points were not uncommon and be assured that Jane rushed out the door to admire the prize and praise the hunter.

Wade’s last column was a series of flash-back recollections of their life together and the fact that they were a perfect fit. It pretty much began the first time they  met … love at first sight … you might say. From there it grew into a life-long commitment.

The final hours are always the most difficult. However, Jane was with her family and has now moved on to a better place.

Jane’s funeral is scheduled for Saturday and unfortunately I can not be there. I will be at the opposite end of the state attending my niece’s wedding that day.

Ironically, all I can think of is the saying, “When one door closes, another opens.”

It seems appropriate in this case. Jane Robertson’s door on this planet has closed, but the wedding has opened a new door for a young couple to begin their life’s journey.

To Wade and his family, I am truly sorry for your loss. However, I know that for Jane there is no longer any pain and suffering.

The pain Wade feels will be with him for some time. All I can say to him is keep on writing and when it becomes difficult — do it for Jane!

Now with an element of sadness, I return to picking this weekend’s games.

HOWABOUTIT:  For the last four weeks all we’ve read about is Curwensville and the running of Nick Stewart and the passing of Bryce Timko. Stewart set the District 9 career rushing record in the previous game.

So, along comes Kane, some still unsure of just how strong the Wolves really are. I guess there’s no argument to be had now.

UNBEATEN: Bradford going to 5-0 on the season has given renewed hope for the football program. Some prognosticators —  who shall remain unnamed —  picked the Owls to win three or four games. So much for that.

MY RECORD: I haven’t done that bad this season, but I must admit that picking Otto-Eldred’s second win and Smethport’s explosion of points and first win last week, would really have made me appear that I know what I’m doing. Who’s kidding who. Most of it is luck.

Last week I went 9-3 and for the season I stand at 35-15.

Now onto this weekend.

TONIGHT’S GAMES

Bradford at Ridgway, 7 p.m.

First off, I hope things are going well for Joey Elinski, who suffered a serious injury against Sheffield. I think the Elkers were down a little for last week’s game. Now they have to deal with unbeaten Bradford which is savoring the moment – rare as they have been! It’s no secret the Owls will run the ball the the Elkers have to stop it.  BRADFORD by 14

Cameron County at Coudersport, 7 p.m.

The Red Raiders are struggling and Falcons have enjoyed the taste of victory. COUDERSPORT by 10

Port Allegany at Smethport, 7 p.m.

I’m afraid the Gators will have to wait another week for a chance to break into the win column. The Hubbers put 50 points on the board last week, but also lost Noah Costa. I haven’t gotten an update on his condition, but wish him well. This should be a ‘W’ for the Hubs, but they’ll have to work for it. SMETHPORT By 18.

SATURDAY’S GAMES

Kane at Elk Catholic, 7 p.m.

The Wolves sent all the doubters scurrying for a hole to crawl in last week. No problem tonight and a lot of young Wolves should get playing time. KANE by 24

Otto-Eldred at Sheffield, 1:30 p.m.

The Terrors can continue to build on their share of the AML North Division lead with a win today. I think they’ll do it. OTTO-ELDRED by 16

TONIGHT’S OTHER GAMES

Brockway at Curwensville, CURWENSVILLE by 18

Brookville at Clarion-Limestone, BROOKVILLE by 14

Redbank Valley at Union/A-C Valley, REDBANK VALLEY by 7

Karns City at Keystone, KARNS CITY by 16

Moniteau at Clarion, CLARION by 20

Punxsutawney at St. Marys, PUNXSUTAWNEY by 4