Pennsylvania Game Commission to Host Several Driving Tours of State Game Lands This Fall
HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Game Commission will again be hosting several wildlife habitat driving tours on state game lands for the public to enjoy from the comfort of their own vehicles this fall.
“These driving tours provide an overview of what’s available on our state game lands, while showcasing how the agency’s habitat work benefits various species of wildlife,” said Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith. “For hunters, these tours highlight potential opportunities for the upcoming seasons, and for non-hunters, the beautiful Pennsylvania fall landscapes are second to none.”
All tours are free of charge, will be held rain or shine, and are only open to vehicles licensed for travel on public roads.
The 2026 Game Commission’s driving tours will occur as follows:
Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026
Wellsboro Bookstore Owners Win Global Support in “America’s Favorite Couple” Competition, Inspires New Romantic Comedy
WELLSBORO, PA — Local bookstore owners Kasey and Kevin Coolidge are celebrating a major victory of the heart after reaching the finals of the national “America’s Favorite Couple” online competition. While the couple did not take home the $20,000 grand prize, they managed to capture the attention and affection of supporters worldwide, sharing updates and connecting with voters directly via their official page at facebook.com.
The owners of From My Shelf Books & Gifts, a beloved independent bookstore nestled in rural Tioga County, Pennsylvania, entered the contest expecting a modest local response. Instead, their campaign went viral on social media, drawing votes from across the United States—including California—and stretching across the Atlantic to the United Kingdom.
Frederick M. Reed, 88, of Bradford
Frederick M. Reed, 88, of 164 Gates Hollow, Bradford, passed away Sunday, September 6, 2026, at UPMC Hamot.
Fred was born in Bradford, on February 16, 1938. He was the son of the late Glenn and Wealthy (Snell) Reed.
Fred attended Bradford Schools and joined the Pennsylvania National Guard. He served four years and was honorably discharged.
On October 19, 1958, he married Charlotte M. (McGuire) Reed, who survives.
After the service, Fred began working at W. R. Case Cutlery, he retired after 35 years of service.
In his spare time, he enjoyed working in his wood shop, tending to his vegetable gardens, and hunting and fishing.
Surviving, in addition to his wife Charlotte of nearly 68 years, are two sons, James (Lori) Reed, of Eldred, and Robert Reed, of Bradford, nine grandchildren, Erin Swanson, Steven Reed, Frederick Reed, Donald Reed, Jeffery Reed, Luke Reed, Nicole Reed, Danielle Reed, and Stephanie Reed, seven great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, two sons, Steven Reed and Jeffery Reed, two sisters, June Weed and Elaine Jennings, three brothers, Bill, Bud, and Glenn Reed.
Family will receive friends on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 10:00 am to Noon at the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc., 33 South Avenue. Burial will follow in Willow Dale Cemetery.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Holllenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
1,038 PEOPLE ATTEND CANYON PILOTS ASSOCIATION LABOR DAY WEEKEND ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FLY-IN BREAKFAST
Bari and Joe Burnside are pictured at the table where they received payments for the fly-in breakfast and greeted the public.
Between 8 a.m. and noon on Sunday, Sept. 6, a total of 1,038 people, including 962 adults and 76 youngsters, ages 4 to 8, attended the 49th Annual Canyon Pilots Association’s All-You-Can-Eat Labor Day Weekend Fly-In Breakfast held indoors at the commercial corporate hangar at the Wellsboro Johnston Airport, near Wellsboro.
The Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekend Fly-In Breakfasts were originally started by the Tioga County Civil Air Patrol in 1977-1978. When the Canyon Pilots Association was founded in 1988, the breakfasts became its responsibility. Sunday, May 30, 2027 and Sunday, September 5, 2027 will mark the breakfasts’ 50th year.
This past Sunday, 12 airplanes and one helicopter landed at the airport for the breakfast. Costa Air Service provided rides over the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon in two Cessna aircraft for a fee.
Owlett to Host Breakfast Honoring Area Veterans
TROY – Rep. Clint Owlett (R-Tioga/Bradford) is inviting area veterans to his upcoming Veterans Appreciation Breakfast on Thursday, Oct. 15, in Troy.
The free breakfast will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Troy Sale Barn, 50 Ballard St., Troy. Doors open at 9 a.m.
“Our veterans are an inspiring group of people who remain humble despite their extraordinary acts of service for us and our nation,” Owlett said. “Whether they served in times of war or times of peace, these men and women stepped up and helped shape our nation into what it is today.
“This breakfast is just a small token of appreciation for that service,” he added.
Breakfast speakers include Erwin “Butch” Baker, who was drafted into the United States Army in July 1967 and served until July 1969. During 1968-69, he served in the Vietnam War as a member of the 299th Combat Engineer Battalion. Baker attained the rank of sergeant (E-5) and served as a combat engineer, where they built and maintained roads, bridges, airstrips and other essential facilities.
Also speaking will be Tioga County Commissioner Sam VanLoon, a combat veteran with over 22 years of service in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. He began his career in August 2000 and was assigned to Charlie Company 3rd of the 103rd Armor in Mansfield. In 2013, he transitioned from the Armor community to become a Blackhawk helicopter pilot for the PA Army National Guard. He has deployed overseas four times in support of both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
The breakfast is open to veterans of the 68th Legislative District, along with one guest each. RSVPs are required to ensure there is enough food for everyone. To reserve a seat, contact Owlett’s offices in Wellsboro (570-724-1390) or Troy (570-297-3045), or sign up online at www.RepOwlett.com/events.
The 68th Legislative District includes all of Tioga County, plus the following municipalities in Bradford County: Alba Borough, Armenia Township, Burlington Borough, Burlington Township, Canton Borough, Canton Township, Columbia Township, Franklin Township, Granville Township, Leroy Township, Monroe Borough, Monroe Township, North Towanda Township, Overton Township, Ridgebury Township, Smithfield Township, South Creek Township, Springfield Township, Sylvania Borough, Towanda Township, Troy Borough, Troy Township, Wells Township and West Burlington Township.
Joseph D. Szymanski, 85, of Rasselas
Feb 6, 1941 — Sep 5, 2026
Joseph D. Szymanski, 85, of Rasselas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Synder Memorial Health Care in Marienville following a lengthy illness.
He was born on February 6, 1941 in Ridgway, PA, a son of the late Alex and Anna Koneski Szymanski.
On November 5, 1966, in Rasselas, PA, he married Nancy Lazzo Szymanski, who survives. Together they shared nearly 60 years of love and laughter.
Joe was a graduate of Johnsonburg High School and went on to earn his degree in mechanical engineering from Gannon University. A proud and devoted patriot, he served his country for more than 20 years in the United States Army, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During his military career, he also served as commander of the United States Army Reserve unit in St. Marys. Joe later retired from Stackpole Carbon Company after many years as a mechanical engineer, a career well suited to his sharp mind, strong work ethic, and natural ability to understand how things worked. He was always happiest when he was working with his hands, whether woodworking, tending his garden, canning what he grew, or helping both his sons build their businesses. Over the years, Joe enjoyed collecting Winchester firearms, attending auctions, admiring Corvettes, enjoying Tennessee Walking Horses and raising Brittany Spaniels. Joe also enjoyed time spent time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. For more than 15 years, he and his wife looked forward to escaping the Pennsylvania winters and snowbirding in Fort Myers. Yet, for all of his accomplishments and interests, some of Joe’s greatest joys were found in life’s simplest moments-a good cup of coffee, a worthwhile project, time spent with family, and especially the treasured moments he shared with his great-grandchildren. Joe lived a full and accomplished life, leaving behind a legacy of service, hard work, craftsmanship, devotion to family, and countless memories that will be cherished for generations.
In addition to his wife, Nancy, of 59 years, he is survived by two sons; Jesse (Sally) Szymanski of St. Marys and David Szymanski of Punxsutawney; and by four grandchildren; Laurel Syzmanski, Lacie (Tom) Goetz, Libby (Bryce) Bowser, and Logan Schloder, and by his beloved great-grandchildren; Isaac, Brynnlee, Wyatt, Arlow, Ridge, and was anticipating the birth of another great-grandchild.
He is also survived by two siblings; Robert (Diane) Szymanski of Rasselas and Annie Szymanski of Warren, as well as by numerous nieces and nephews and a brother-in-law, John Lazzo of South Carolina.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Joseph D. Szymanski will be celebrated on Monday, September 14, 2026 at 12:00 PM at St. Marys Church, 315 Church Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Ignatius Camello as celebrant.
Military Honors will be accorded by the St. Marys Servicemen’s Burial Detail.
Burial will follow in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation will be at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Monday, September 14, 2026 from 10:30 AM until 11:30 AM.
Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, The Parkinson’s Foundation, or to a charity of choice.
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
To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.
Consider a donation, as requested by the family.
James R. Shaffer, 81, of Shinglehouse, PA, Formerly of Smethport, PA
James R. Shaffer, 81, of Shinglehouse, PA, formerly of Smethport, PA, passed on July 30, 2026, in Port Charlotte, FL. He is survived by a
loving wife, Janna; two children, Heather and Brad; and three siblings, Judy, Ken, and Christine.
Jim was an Army Veteran. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, driving bus for Coach USA and Smethport School District. Also, he loved and cared for many animals throughout his life.
A celebration of life will be held at: Myrtle Gospel Tabernacle, 1127 Rt 44, Shinglehouse, PA
16748 on September 19 from 11-2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to:
Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane,
Coudersport, PA 16915.
Invitation for Bids From The Potter County Housing Authority
The Potter County Housing Authority will receive bids for Flooring Renovations for Freeman House Elderly Housing Project, Coudersport, Pennsylvania, at the office of the Owner, Potter County Housing Authority, 109 Market Street, Coudersport, Pennsylvania, until 12 P.M., E.D.T., Thursday, September 24, 2026, at which time and place all bids will be opened and read aloud.
The bid envelope shall be marked “Flooring Renovations for Freeman House Elderly Housing“, and marked to the attention of Mr. Richard Duzick. Bidders will be notified as to bid results and disposition of contract award. Proposed forms of contract documents are on file at the office of the Potter County Housing Authority, 109 Market Street, Coudersport, Pennsylvania 16915, and will be available for inspection.
Copies of the documents may be obtained by depositing $20 (nonrefundable) with the Potter County Housing Authority for each set of documents so obtained. Payment must be made before receipt of bid documents.
This flooring project requires PA prevailing wage rates. A set of current rates will be available with the bid package. Contact information for the PA Department of Labor Wage Rate Division will be available for questions.
By making a Bid, the Bidder represents that (s) he has visited the site, (site meeting date will be set), become familiar with local Conditions, under which the work is to be performed, and has correlated these observations with the requirements of the proposed Drawings and Specifications. Bidder also represents that (s) he has read and understands the Drawings and Specifications, and the Bid is made in accordance therewith. The Authority will contact Bidders with a date for a site walk through and to take any questions pertaining to the project.
Potter County Housing Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. No bid may be withdrawn without the consent of the Potter County Housing Authority. The “invitation to bid” form is located on page IB-1 in the bid document. The Authority looks forward to receiving bids from Minority, and Woman-owned Businesses. Please feel free to contact Richard Duzick, Executive Director, at 814-274-7031 ext. 4, or pcha1@zitomedia.net with any questions.
Glenn “GT” Thompson – “The Local”
CRS State College:
I was pleased to meet with members of the State College Chapter of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to discuss issues ranging from global humanitarian aid to hunger challenges at home and abroad. CRS is an international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the U.S. that works to assist the vulnerable around the world. CRS works in more than 90 countries, and it has programs that focus on health, agriculture, water, education, peacebuilding, and more. I am grateful to Jim Nolan and all the members of the CRS State College Chapter for their advocacy and commitment to assisting impoverished communities across the globe.
Glenn “GT” Thompson – “The Bad”
Loss of American Farmland:
The use of eminent domain on agricultural lands has long affected farmers across our country. The loss of productive agricultural land when other viable sites exist directly threatens our nation’s food security and rural communities. Last week, I introduced legislation to protect America’s farmland from eminent domain. The Not In My Barnyard Act safeguards American producers’ property rights by prohibiting the federal government from initiating eminent domain proceedings on any agricultural land when a feasible alternative site exists. Defending American producers and ensuring the United States has enough productive farmland to feed and fuel the country is a matter of national security.
Glenn “GT” Thompson – “The Good”
Childcare Solutions Hearing:
This week, the Committee on Education and Workforce held an Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee hearing titled “Supporting Working Families: State-Led Child Care Solutions.” This hearing was an opportunity to hear from states about the innovative ways they are approaching childcare for the benefit of families, businesses, and communities. Finding long-term solutions to childcare, which is often limited in rural regions, can strengthen our workforce and economy. In Pennsylvania, a shortage of childcare affects many rural communities. That’s why I introduced the Community Services Block Grant Improvement Act to update and reauthorize the Community Services Block Grant, a federal program that helps low-income families afford childcare and child development services. I thank the Committee on Education and Workforce for welcoming conversations surrounding childcare and potential solutions to the national shortage.
Causer to Host Senior Citizens Expo in Kane Sept. 11
KANE – Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) is reminding area seniors he will once again host his annual Senior Citizens Expo in Kane to provide area seniors and their family members and caregivers convenient access to a wide range of information in one convenient location.
The expo will be held on Friday, Sept. 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Kane Community Center, 46 N. Fraley St., Kane.
“There are so many programs and services available to support our senior citizens, but it still can be difficult for people to find the help they need,” Causer said. “I hope area seniors will take advantage of the opportunity to gather a lot of helpful information in one place.”
Due to the expo, Causer’s offices in Kane and Bradford will be closed all day on Friday, Sept. 11. People in need of urgent assistance that day should contact the Coudersport office at 814-274-9769 or the Harrisburg office at 717-787-5075.
The event is free to attend, and lunch will be provided. State, county and local exhibitors will be on hand to distribute information and answer questions about a variety of issues. Health screenings will also be offered, and door prize drawings will be held.
Causer noted he will also hold another expo on Friday, Oct. 9, at the Roulette Fire Hall.
For more information about the expo, contact Causer’s Kane office at 814- 837-0880. Information is also available at RepCauser.com or on Facebook at Facebook.com/RepCauser.
Prime Line Distributors, Inc. and Ferrarini USA, Inc. Recall Imported Ready-To-Eat Pork Guanciale Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination
WASHINGTON, Sept. 06, 2026 – Prime Line Distributors, Inc., a Fort Lauderdale, Fla., firm, and Ferrarini USA, Inc., a Hoboken, N.J., firm, are recalling approximately 1,513 pounds of imported ready-to-eat (RTE) pork products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Jean C. Hart, 89, of South Kendall Avenue, Bradford
Jean C. Hart, 89, of South Kendall Avenue, Bradford, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026, on the 27th year anniversary of her husband’s death at The Pavilion at BRMC.
Born June 6, 1937, in Kane, she was a daughter of the late Ralph C. and Isabel (Hendrickson) Dickinson. She attended Smethport High School and completed courses in Nursing Home Care.
On February 15, 1958, in St. Elizabeth Church she married Thomas D. Hart who preceded her in death on September 4, 1999.
Jean had worked in several nursing homes but excelled in home health care for the elderly and terminally ill patients in their homes throughout the Bradford area, for the Visiting Nurses Association, and Community Home Hospice.
She was a devout Roman Catholic all her adult life and lifetime member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, and St. Bernard Church. She was at one time an officer of the Catholic Daughters of America. Jean was also a hard-working mother of nine children, always baking and canning. All the while, never missing a Sunday mass.
Surviving are three daughters, Theresa H. Hahn, of South Carolina, Diana J. Hart of West Palm Beach, FL, and Martha L. (Shane) Arick, of Panama City, FL, six sons David J. Hart, of Portsmouth VA, Thomas A. Hart, of Rew,, Robert S. Hart, of Union Hall VA, Mark A. Hart, of Smethport, Stephen J. (Becky) Hart, of Smithfield NC, and John M. Hart, of Bradford, one brother, Jim Dickinson, of Smethport, 17 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Tom, two sisters, Nancy Johnson and Kay Boyle.
Private graveside committal services will be held for family members at St. Bernard Cemetery with Rev. John Jacquel, Pastor of St. Bernard Church officiating.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
The Hart family is grateful to the nurses and staff at the Pavilion at Bradford Regional Medical Center for their exceptional care. Jean spoke highly of each of you and knew she was receiving the best care possible. We also extend our thanks to the friends who visited our mother in recent years.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
Thomas Robert Tyler, 88, of Coudersport, PA
COUDERSPORT, PA–Thomas Robert Tyler, 88, of Coudersport, PA, went home peacefully to be with the Lord, with his family by his side, on Sunday, September 6th, 2026. He was defined by his faith and love for his family.
Thomas was born on June 14th, 1938, in Austin, PA. He was the son of Lloyd and Alice McMartin Tyler. On October 26th, 1957, he married Rebecca Gribble, who survives. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Jaydon and Jim Hall, and one sister, Levia Herzog.
Thomas attended Austin Area High School. After graduating, Thomas owned and operated Tyler Excavation for many years. He was a member of God’s Country Global Methodist Church in Austin, PA.
Thomas is survived by his wife of 68 years, Rebecca; and his five daughters: Debbie (Tom) Pekarski of Browndale, PA; Sandy Moyer of Boyertown, PA; Wanda (Jim) Lewis of York, PA; Linda (Forrest) Hiestand of Alabama; and Shirley (Gary) Hunt of Roulette, PA. He had 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Family and friends may gather from 11am to 1pm on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at God’s Country Global Methodist Church, Turner Street, Austin. A celebration of life will follow at 1pm with Pastor Todd Lamer, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Thomas’ name can be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Thomas’ family has entrusted his care 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 Thomas, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
‘Farm Safety for Families Day’ Scheduled for September 19 at Elk County Fairgrounds
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — An upcoming hands-on educational event, “Farm Safety Day for Families,” hosted by Penn State Extension, will focus on reducing risks and preventing farm accidents.
The event will take place from 9 to 3 p.m. September 19, 2026 at the Elk County Fairgrounds, 316 Dietz Rd., Kersey, PA.
Designed for farm owners, employees, families and youth who work on farms, the event features engaging presentations and demonstrations highlighting essential safety practices, organizers noted.
Topics include chainsaw safety, tractor rollover prevention, ATV/UTV safety, power take-off safety, barn fire safety, and managing farm-related stress
Organizers pointed out that this event will offer practical knowledge to help keep farm operations safe and sustainable for everyone involved.
Penn State Extension is offering this event at no charge to general participants. Preregistration by September 11, 2026, is encouraged.
More information is available on the Penn State Extension website at https://extension.psu.edu/farm-safety-day-in-elk-county
September 15 is Last Date to Register for Phil Fitch Memorial Chukar Challenge on September 19
Johnsonburg, Pa.: Fall is in the air – you can smell it in the breeze. Why not give your hunting dog a tune-up on birds? Tuesday, 9/15, is the last day to register for the Phil Fitch Memorial Chukar Challenge on 9/19. The Rolfe Birddoggers run a first-class chukar challenge at their club grounds in Elk County.
Phil Fitch was a special member of the Rolfe Beagle Club and the Elk County community. In memory of Phil, on Saturday, September 19, the Rolfe Birddoggers will host the Phil Fitch Memorial Chukar Challenge from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Rolfe Beagle Club grounds. Only 24 registrants will be accepted. The Rolfe Beagle Club is located at 1016 Long Level Road, Johnsonburg, Pa., in Elk County.
All dog handlers wanting to register their dog(s) should contact Ron Guidas at email ronguidas@gmail.com.
GALETON PA. AUGUST 2026 WEATHER REPORT
August showers will bring September flowers. We did have plenty of August showers during the month. The month was relatively mild. There were no heat waves. We did have several thundershowers, and these, for the most part, gave us the 4.29″ rainfall for August 2026. Last year we recorded 1.10″.
Pine Creek looks very nice and surprisingly normal. The smaller streams look low. I will report that the grass is growing fast and the mowers are running overtime. Of course, lawns must be kept looking like the well-groomed golf courses. I will add another observation. Even on the smaller lawns, nice-looking ride-on mowers are the mowers of choice, and they are kept washed and polished.
HENRY W. LUSH NATIONAL WEATHER OBSERVER
ALYSON LUSH DAILY RECORDER
Potter County Housing Authority Apartments for Rent
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
The Potter County Housing Authority has immediate availability for a 2 bedroom apartment:
Honeoye Haven apartments, located in Shinglehouse, PA
This apartment is a 2-bedroom with wall to wall carpeting, central heating and air conditioning, range and refrigerator included. This apartment is not available to a single person.
To be eligible you must be 62 years of age or older or disabled. Rent is based on 30% of your income. Includes electric, trash, water and sewer.
For more information please call the Potter County Housing Authority at (814) 274-7031 TTY/TDD #711 or stop by our office at 109 Market Street, Coudersport.
The Potter County Housing Authority does not discriminate against any person because of Race, Color, Sex, Religion, National or Ethnic Origin, Familial Status, Gender Identity or Handicap.
Thomas Robert Tyler
COUDERSPORT, PA–Thomas Robert Tyler, 88, of Coudersport, PA, went home peacefully to be with the Lord, with his family by his side, on Sunday, September 6th, 2026. He was defined by his faith and love for his family.
Family and friends may gather from 11am to 1pm on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at God’s Country Global Methodist Church, Turner Street, Austin. A celebration of life will follow at 1pm with Pastor Todd Lamer, officiating.
Thomas’ family has entrusted his care 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 Thomas, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
A complete obituary will follow.
MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO DRUG/GUN CRIMES AND DEALING IN PROCEEDS OF UNLAWFUL ACTIVITY
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that a man charged with drug crimes in Bradford earlier this year has pled guilty.
David DICKINSON was charged by McKean County Drug Task Force Detective Kolin Strawcutter following an investigation into drug trafficking in McKean County. DICKINSON was charged with delivering cocaine five times between November and January and using proceeds to promote unlawful activity and possessing a loaded firearm while he was someone who is prohibited from possessing a firearm. After DICKINSON was arrested and transported to the McKean County Jail, he was found to be in possession of a controlled substance.
DICKINSON plead guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance (Felony); Possession of a Firearm by Persons Not to Possess (Felony 2); Dealing in Unlawful Proceeds (Felony 1); and Possession of a Controlled Substance by an Inmate (Felony 2).
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer said of the case: “The charge of Dealing in Unlawful Proceeds is a charge that allows us to target the criminal activity of using money that represents the proceeds of illegal activity. For drug trafficking, drugs are traded for money in most cases. Those proceeds represent the illegal activity and, when someone makes money from a drug sale and uses that money in another financial transaction that promotes the unlawful activity, we are looking at the crime of Dealing in Unlawful Proceeds as an additional avenue to address the problem with traffickers profiting off of drug sales.”
Sentencing was scheduled for October 16th. If you suspect illegal drug activity, report it to Chief County Detective Ryan Yingling at the DA’s Office at (814) 887-3312 or McKeanDA.org
William D. “Bill” Swartzfager, 89, formerly of Mt. Jewett, of West Henrietta, NY
William D. “Bill” Swartzfager, 89, formerly of Mt. Jewett, of West Henrietta, NY, passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at Highland Hospital, in Rochester, NY
Bill was born in Cyclone, on March 21, 1937, he was a son of the late John and Elizabeth A. (Powers) Swartzfager. He was a 1955 graduate of Bradford High School
On June 4, 1962, he was drafted into the United States Army. He served overseas in Germany for a year and three months with Company C 17th Signal Battalion. He was honorably discharged on May 23, 1964.
On September 25, 1965, in Mt Jewett, he married Patricia L. “Patti” (Field) Swartzfager who survives.
Bill began working after the service for the railroad and retired from the B&O Railroad as a Telegrapher.
Bill was an avid hunter, fisherman, and bowler. He has served on the School Board of the Kane Area School DIstrict for 10 years, the Mt. Jewett Water Authority, and was a member of the Mt. Jewett Fire Department and Ambulance Service, among a variety of other organizations.
Surviving in addition to his wife Patti of 61 years, is one daughter, Tonhya (Kirk) Bowman, of West Henrietta, one son, Scott (Barb) Swartzfager, of Rochester NY, one grandson, Jack Swartzfager two sisters, Mary (Tom) O’Connell, of Mt. Alton, and Julie Glenn, of Paynesville OH, one brother, Dennis (Alice) Swartzfager, of New Bethlehem, and nieces and nephews
Bill was preceded in death by four sisters, Dorothy Maholic, Cynthia Fitzgerald, Kathleen Swartzfager, and Sharon Swartzfager, and three brothers, Lawrence Swartzfager, John Swartzfager, and Brian Swartzfager.
Family will receive friends on Saturday September 12, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. 372 East Main St. in Bradford, followed by funeral services 1:00 PM with Rev. John Jacquel, Pastor of St. Bernard Church, officiating. Military Honors will be accorded in the funeral home following the service by members of the United States Army.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Mt. Jewett Memorial Library, or the Mt. Jewett Ambulance Service, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes inc.
Online condolences may be expressed for the family at www.hollenbeckcahill.com