Patricia Hitchcock, 91, formerly of Lafferty Hollow, most recently of Chapel Ridge, passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 11:00 am, in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc., 372 East Main Street, with Clifton Troyer, Pastor Bradford Mennonite Church, officiating.
Several years ago, I was a member of the Rotary Club, where I was introduced to the Four-Way Test: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? This framework guided my words and actions and continues to shape how I communicate today. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem to guide much of our public discourse. While everyone is entitled to an opinion, not every thought needs to be spoken aloud. It is worth remembering that opinions are just that—opinions.
Remember the saying, “If you don’t have anything good to say, keep your mouth shut.” What happened? Did we stop teaching that to our children? Have we somehow skipped the part about being kind and loving, especially to our neighbor? Please understand, I’m not against sharing thoughts and opinions. After all, I do it every day through videos and writing, but I’m trying, and hopefully succeeding, to do so with love and respect for others. I learned a long time ago that you can disagree with someone respectfully and still get along. Somewhere along the line, that seems to have been left behind.
Is there an answer? Can we turn things around? I believe we can, but it doesn’t start with others. It starts with us as individuals. Remember the golden rule: love your neighbor as yourself? That’s not for others to do; it’s for you and me. How? Sometimes the easiest way is simply to ask. In other words, ask, “If I were loving you, what would that look like?” I’ve practiced this with my wife, children, and grandchildren. I’ve even asked my neighbor, “If I were the best neighbor you could ever have, what would that look like?” Sound corny? Maybe it is, but I’m trying to show that they are important to me and that part of respect and honor is being a blessing in their lives. I also see it as mirroring what I would like to see from others. At the end of the day, the only world I can change is the one I live in every day of my life. Each of us is creating a ripple effect in the world around us. The question is, what kind of ripple are you causing? Think about it.
The March 3,2026 regular meeting of Ceres Township Supervisors was called to order with 3 Supervisors, 3 residents, and secretary in attendance.
The minutes of the February 3, 2026 meeting were read and approved.
PennDOT Multimodal grant application was submitted. A letter giving Brenda Moyer authority to sign checks was signed by all supervisors for submission to JVB Bank. Motion was made by Greg and seconded by AJ Plants to change account at JVB to Preferred account with $2,500 minimum balance to be maintained. Submission of grant applications was discussed and decision to submit application for County LVDGR grant and Act 13 grants.
Telephone complaint by resident regarding sewage issue on bordering property was addressed and letter to be sent to resident. Building assessment permit was approved. Accounting software Account Edge will not work for township accounts. Motion was made to pursue alternative software for use. Resolutions were signed for acceptance of the grant, where to purchase and outfit the truck, and in support of PA One Call safe digging month.
Road Master reported work continued plowing, sanding, & stoning roads for winter maintenance. He scheduled a meeting with the county Conservation District for grant application project. Calls for stone pricing were placed. Sluice pipes were cleared of ice.
Cold patching was done on a couple of roads. Repairs on GMC truck were done as well as small truck repairs. He met with A&H Equipment regarding truck outfitting. Coon Crossing and Taylor Brook roads remain bonded. There were no supervisors or public comments.
The bills for February were reviewed and approved. The next regular meeting of Ceres Township Supervisors will be held on April 7,2026 at the Ceres Township Building at 6:00 p.m.
February 2026 will go down in the record books as a cold and unsettled weather month. Thus far, the winter of 2026 has been very cold, and in some areas to the east and north, major snowfalls. We missed the blizzards, but we did have a cold month. We had some below zero morning readings and several in the single digits. Strong winds added to the cold. On the 19th, we had a severe thunderstorm with heavy hail, which covered the roads and sidewalks. That was followed by very icy conditions. It was not a pleasant month. It stayed below freezing for about three weeks.
Rain and melted snow for 2026 was 4.46″ last year; the amount was 3.35″. In 2025, we received 5″ of snow, and this year the total snowfall was 3″. We had 23 days with 1″ of snow on the ground, with the greatest depth of 9″ on the 9th.
Here we are starting the month of March. I would be remiss if I did not repeat the old saying, ” March weather is like a Model T Ford, just enough spring to make your butt ache.” My daughter Alyson is helping with the weather reports.
Baileyton, TN – Richard “Dick” Alan Linn, 84, of Baileyton, TN went home to be with the Lord on Monday, March 2nd, 2026. Richard passed with loved ones by his side after a brief illness.
Richard born September 29th, 1941, was the son of James Nathan and Sara Gertrude (Null) Linn of Washington, Pa.
A 1963 graduate of Waynesburg College (PA), his occupational endeavors focused on serving others. He served as assistant manager and youth counselor for YMCA’s in Washington, PA and Carlisle, PA. Richard went on to be Superintendent of Pennsylvania State Parks, including Black Moshannon, Currwensville, Sizerville, Sinnemahoning, Gifford Pinchot, Denton Hill, Lyman Run, Prouty, Patterson, and Cherry Springs. He served 21 years in city government as Borough Manager of Port Allegany, PA, Village Administrator in Cooperstown, NY, and City Manager at Neptune Beach, FL. Upon retiring from the public sector, Richard and his wife Patricia purchased and operated an RV park & campground in Baileyton, TN, returning him to the camping style of life he grew up with in the Boy Scouts, YMCA, and state parks, as well as a personal enjoyment carried on with his family.
Looking for a reliable female Caregiver to provide care for an elderly woman in her home in the Coudersport-Roulette area, 2-4 hours per day, possibly more. Must have good references.
John D. Freer of Austin, PA passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early morning hours on Sunday, February 22nd 2026. John was born to Marie Herrick and Jack David Brown in Olean, NY on September 24th 1935. After his mother remarried he was raised by his mother Marie and his adoptive father Paul Freer, along with his siblings Ivan, Alice, and Niel Freer.
John graduated from Roulette High School in 1953; later attending Penn State University before leaving to enlist in the United States Navy. A proud veteran he served in the US Navy from 1954-1958 aboard the USS Cassin Young, a preserved Fletcher-class destroyer from World War II that is now a museum in Boston.
After returning home from his time in the service he began work in the local area before starting what would become a long and dedicated career with UNG/National Fuel, from which he would eventually retire in 1993. During his career he was active in his community as a member of the Jaycees (the United States Junior Chamber) as well as serving on the Austin Borough Council.
He met his late wife Sandy by chance at a local dance; a meeting they both described as fate. On July 22nd, 1960 they married in Austin, PA. Together they enjoyed 62 years of marriage filled with camping, boating, enjoying the outdoors, and watching their family grow. A lover of animals, especially dogs, he and Sandy opened their home to numerous pets through rescue organizations over the years, including his most recent dog and loyal companion, Max.
Known as “Papa” in his family John was a true sailor at heart, often spending hours on the water at Kinzua Lake- fishing, swimming, and enjoying time aboard their own pontoon boat with Sandy and their loved ones.
Anyone who knew John knew that he was a true craftsman often spending hours in his garage fixing, building, or happily tinkering with his tools. He was rarely without a tune, known for whistling throughout the day- a simple joy that became one of the many small things his family will forever remember. In his quieter moments he enjoyed watching sports on TV, playing darts, reading, and tackling even the most challenging crossword puzzles he could find.
John took great pride in his role as a family man; giving each of his grandchildren their own affectionate nicknames and often calling them first thing in the morning on their birthdays so that he could be the first person to speak to them that day. Known for his love of sweets it wasn’t uncommon to find dishes of candy (especially peanut butter cups) around his house; his youngest grandson especially remembers how Papa would carefully split a chocolate bar and share the pieces with him. Small gestures that meant the world.
To say he will be greatly missed is an understatement.
In addition to his parents he is predeceased by his beloved wife Sandy as well as his great-granddaughter Pamela Crants.
John is survived by his two sons Robert Freer and Alton “Buddy” (Marea) Freer along with five grandchildren: Eryn (Eric) Fiebig, Heather (Michael) Postlewait, Casey (Klaus) Puck, Amanda Wehler, and Hunter (Kelsee) Freer.
He was also a cherished great-grandfather and great-great grandfather to Aedrik, Axeton, and Ander Fiebig, Willie Postlewait, Claudia Puck, Madison and Abel Langfitt, Olivia Wehler, Kade Freer, Sutton and Micha Crants, and William Ryan Postlewait.
He is also remembered by his siblings Ivan (Joan) Freer, Alice (John) Henneberry, and Niel (Nancy) Freer and their families.
At the request of John there will be no public visitation or funeral. A private family memorial will be held at the family’s convenience.
Memorial donations may be made in John & Sandy’s name to the Austin Fire Department, PO Box 328, Austin, PA 16720 or to Teachers Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915.
John entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of John, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Hope D. House “beloved wife, mother, and grandmother”
Hope D. House, 77, a longtime resident of Austin, passed away in her home with her loving family by her side on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, after a lengthy illness.
Born on Monday, October 11, 1948 in Coudersport, she was a daughter of Thomas and Magdelina M. Manning Hopkins. On April 30, 1983 in Coudersport, she married David W. “Dave” House, who passed away on November 19, 2018.
Left to cherish her memory are three children, Deonna M (Dennis) Snyder, Jerry A. Springer, and William F. “Fred” (Nicole Cremeans) House, all of Austin; three granddaughters, Sabrina A. (Michael) Bacon of Emporium, Jessica M. (David) Welch of Shinglehouse, and Brooklynn Rose House of Austin; four great-grandchildren, Pierce M. Bacon, Nikole A. Wilson, Peyton D. Bacon and Shaunna R. Wilson; two sisters, Mary (David) Durst and Joy Osborne, both of Coudersport; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, Hope was predeceased by a daughter, LisaSue Springer; and a brother, Mark W. T. Hopkins.
In keeping with Hope’s wishes there will be no services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Hope’s name may be made to Potter County Animal Assistance Project, c/o Kim Mitchell, 208 W. Beech Street, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Hope entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Hope, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that the Kane man arrested after asking for nude photographs from a decoy with the online predator group “814predhunters” who he believed to be 15 years old has been sentenced to state incarceration. Jason GORRIE appeared before a McKean County Judge on March 5th for a sentencing hearing.
He had previously pled guilty to Criminal Use of a Communication Device and Attempted Sexual Abuse (commonly referred to as child pornography) both felonies. The case was investigated by Kane Borough Police Chief Derrick Snyder.
During the sentencing hearing, District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer told the Court that the minimum range of sentence set by the legislature for the crime is a minimum of between 3 and 6 months of incarceration and Shaffer recommends a sentence at the high end of that range. She asked the Court to set a maximum so that his sentence would be served in a state prison rather than the county jail. DA Shaffer cited a letter GORRIE wrote to the Court in which GORRIE blamed his actions on a recent breakup with a girlfriend and for not taking medications for depression, autism, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that a Smethport man who previously pled guilty to Sexual Abuse of Children (commonly referred to as Child Pornography) has been sentenced to state prison. Frederick RASZMANN appeared before the Court for a sentencing hearing on March 5th.
During the hearing, the Judge sentenced RASZMANN to state prison for a period of 16 months to 32 months plus 3 years of consecutive probation. 2nd Deputy District Attorney Sarah Dufresne, who prosecuted the case: “This sentence concludes the case that resulted in RASZMANN admitting he possessed 119 images and 5 videos of child pornography.
RASZMANN is not eligible for any early parole programs and is also required to register as a Sex Offender for 15 years.”
When Lauren Kaziska first walked through the doors of UPMC Cole in July 2020, she wasn’t preparing breathing treatments or managing ventilators. She was carrying cleaning supplies.
It was the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Lauren had just started as an environmental services (EVS) associate. What began as a housekeeping role quickly became an introduction to a career she never expected.
“It was a crazy experience,” Lauren said. “It was very hard work, especially during COVID. I was scrubbing walls, working overtime, and running constantly. But it was rewarding. I really liked being in the health care environment.”
J. Stephen “Steve” Bagley, 79, affectionately known as “Bags”, passed away on March 3, 2026, in St. Marys, PA after a brief illness.
He was born on November 5, 1946, in St. Marys, PA, a son of the late John Marshall and Helen Edna Dippold Bagley, both of St. Marys.
Steve was a graduate of Elk County Christian High School, class of 1964. He received his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the Indiana Institute of Technology in Fort Wayne, IN where he played soccer. Steve worked for Stackpole Carbon Company as a draftsman and later he was the chief carbon brush engineer until he retired after 40 years of service. He was a member of many clubs including the St. Marys American Legion, Elks, CMF, PFL, K of C, and was a proud founding member of the Bavarian Hills Golf Course, where he severed as the first president for 15 years.
Bags was an avid golfer and enjoyed bowling. He always loved being emersed in nature and could often be found 4 wheeling and trap and skeet shooting. He also enjoyed spending his free time watching Fox News.
Steve is survived by one son; J. Stephen Bagley, one beloved grandson; Desmond Bagley and his mother Monica Winters, and a special cousin; Joyce Dippold Pretti. He is also survived by numerous cousins, close friends, and extended family.
In addition to his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his sister; Christine Bagley, and three siblings in infancy; John Marshall, Jr., Dennis, and Mary Jo Bagley.
A Memorial Mass is being scheduled and will be announced at a later date.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Bavarian Hills Golf Course, 251 Mulligan Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 or the St. Marys and Benzinger Township Golf Authority, 11 Lafayette Street, St. Marys, PA 15857.
Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com
The winter Indoor Potter County Farmers Market, located at the Riley Gallery, next to the Hotel Crittenden, will be open the first Saturday of each month, from January to May. The next market will be this Saturday, March 7th, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Here is a list of who plans to be there and what they plan on bringing to the Market:
[NOTICES:
* STARTING IN JANUARY, NEW WINTER MARKET HOURS ARE SATURDAYS FROM 11AM TO 2PM.
* Beginning in January 2026 the Farmers Market will be the first Saturday of each month until May. The remaining Saturday dates are March 7th, and April 4th. May 2026 the market will again be on the square
* Market times have been established after many trial times over the years. If you are not able to visit us and would like something particular from one of the vendors, please contact them directly. They are willing to try to accommodate your request.
* If you are interested in joining the market this year or have any questions please contact …. Netra Baker, 814-598-0649 netrabaker2@gmail.com]
VALLEY HONEY will be attending the March 7th Potter County Farmers Market. We will bring various sizes of bottled honey, whipped honey, honey sticks, honey gift bags, and beeswax. We accept cash payment. This will be our first market and look forward to seeing everyone there.
ME AND MY BOYS SOAP plan on attending the market on Saturday. We will have a selection of goat milk based products that include soap bars, shampoo bars, lotions, and bath bombs. We accept cash or card payments. Hope to see you there on Saturday.
CARD CREEK BAKERY will be at the market Saturday. Requests are always welcome. Breads, baked goods, fresh brown eggs, jams and jellies will be there.
Missing Child Alert, 9 years old white/female wearing a blue jacket, dark gray boots with yellow trim and is carrying a purple backpack
DESCRIPTION: At the request of the Tompkins County Sheriffs Office, a New York State Missing Child Alert has been issued relating to the disappearance of JOANNE WASHBURN; age 9; from ULYSSES, NY at 10:22 am on March 05, 2026.
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Cathy Ebeling Surra was an extraordinary lady with a zest for life. Her legacy is not the past; the legacy lives on through lives she touched and where they are today. Countless young people were treated with courtesy and were gently taught how to read, write, hold a fork or crayon, how to stay clean, how to hug and express love. She also enjoyed attending church where she was a catechism teacher or singing in the choir.
She was an accomplish calligrapher, remarkable artist/painter, sewed and or darned blankets and gifted her work away. Her decorating skills were not only found in her home, but when she was dressed for an occasion, she was meticulously dressed, and her most pronounced feature were her eyes and a smile.
