Sandra J. Baker, Age 80 of Galeton
Sandra J. Baker, age 80 of Galeton passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at UPMC Hamot in Erie, PA. Born February 13, 1946 in Westfield, she was the daughter of the late Asaph L. and Evelyn B. (Lewis) Allen.
Sandy graduated from Cowanesque Valley High School, Class of 1964. She worked at many places, the Green Home, Preschool in Galeton and the Westfield Tannery. She married Earl Baker on June 10, 1967 and they shared 59 years together. Not having any children of their own, the community was their family; volunteering their time at the Westfield Christmas parade, whether it was being Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus or riding a float, Christmas was their favorite. She was a lifelong member of the Harrison Township Volunteer Fire Company, a dedicated member of Clymer Township Volunteer Fire Company, Galeton Ambulance, Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Company and an EMT, where she had the honor of delivering four babies, 2 being born on her birthday.
Sandy is survived by her husband, Earl; brother, Steve Allen; nephew, Jake Allen and two great nieces, Ashley Kae and Mikarra Shea Allen.
A Celebration of Sandy’s Life will be held at Harrison Valley Alliance Church, 217 E. Main St., Harrison Valley on Sunday, July 19th at 3:00PM with Pastor Kevin Cornish and Allyn Baker officiating. Memorial donations may be made in Sandy’s honor to the Crary Hose Fire Company, c/o Christmas Parade, 429 E. Main St., Westfield, PA 16950 or to the Westfield Historical Society, c/o Christmas boxes and tree, 151 W. Main St., Westfield, PA 16950.
Arrangements are in care of Kenyon Funeral Home, Westfield.
Virginia M. O’Brien, 94, of West Washington Street, formerly of Rockland Ave.
Virginia M. O’Brien, 94, of West Washington Street, formerly of Rockland Ave., passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving children, at Olean General Hospital.
Born February 9, 1932, in Bradford she was a daughter of the late John Henry and Leonora A. (Derrick) Quirk. She was a 1950 graduate from St. Bernard School.
On September 8, 1956, in St. Francis of Assisi Church she married John E. “Jack” O’Brien who died October 14, 2004.
Virginia worked for Emery Hardware, and later for 19 plus years as a cashier at CVS until retiring in March of 1994.
She was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, and Rosary Altar Society, enjoyed gardening and her greatest joy in life was spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Deborah A. Bennett, 75, of Rixford
Deborah A. Bennett, 75, of Looker Mountain Trail, Rixford, passed away Monday, July 13, 2026, at Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born on February 17, 1951, in Olean, NY, she was a daughter of the late John and Helen (Nuhfer) Hepfer.
She was a 1969 graduate of Otto Eldred High School.
On June 27, 1969, she married Thomas D. Bennett who survives.
She was a clerk for the United States Postal Service in Rixford for 26 years.
Deb was a member of the Otto Township Ladies Auxiliary for 37 years, the Greater Bradford Senior Activities Center and a volunteer as a poll worker for the McKean County Board of Elections. She enjoyed baking cakes, making candy,crocheting, and helping the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. She never missed an event for her kids or grandchildren. She loved playing cards with everyone, and looked forward to Friends Night every month.
No Geater Love, Think About It
Pastor B.J. Knefley
In John 15:13, Jesus said, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” After reading this verse, I wondered whether I had friends who would do that for me—and whether I was that kind of friend to others.
From what I’ve observed, men don’t often have close friends. If we have any at all, it’s usually just one or two. We are often the kind of creatures who don’t confide in others. We keep our thoughts to ourselves and rarely share our fears, emotions, dreams, hopes, or wishes. If we’re hurting, we hurt in silence. Yet we can also be deeply devoted and won’t hesitate to jump into the fray to help a brother out. But here’s the interesting part: we may not always do it out of expressed love, but out of instinct, loyalty, and nature.
The other day, I received a phone call from someone I hadn’t heard from in years. It was someone I used to see regularly, but when he retired, things changed. That’s the way it is with many relationships: life changes, and relationships change with it. The interesting thing is that I had kept up with what was going on in this person’s life because of social media. Although we didn’t talk, we quietly peeked into each other’s lives through that thing we call Facebook. As we talked, he shared that I had been important in his life and that he was trying to reconnect with people who mattered. That reminded me of what Jesus said about “no greater love.” Maybe it is not only about laying down your life for another person in a dramatic moment. Maybe it is also about taking time out of your life to reach out by phone and say, “Hey, you’re important.” So where does it go from here?
The next step is that we’re going to have a meal together. This time, I’ll be the one reaching out to set it up. It’s easy to think of someone, but it’s another matter to reach out and connect. Yet that is what loving others is all about. I liken it to living without regrets—in other words, never having to say, “I wish I had.” Think about it.
Causer to Host Senior Citizens Expos
BRADFORD – Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) will once again host a series of Senior Citizens Expos to provide area seniors and their family members and caregivers convenient access to a wide range of information in one convenient location.
“This is a great opportunity for our senior citizens and their caregivers to connect with service providers here in the area,” Causer said. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of what the expos have to offer.”
The events will be held as follows:
- Bradford: Friday, Aug. 7, at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Campus Drive, Bradford.
- Kane: Friday, Sept. 11, at the Kane Community Center, 46 Fraley St., Kane.
- Roulette: Friday, Oct. 9, at the Roulette Fire Hall, 12 River St., Roulette.
Each event is free to attend and will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch will be provided and door prize drawings will be held at each event.
Causer is encouraging businesses, agencies and organizations that offer services to senior citizens to take part in the expo to connect with potential clients. Exhibitors share information about health care, insurance, nutrition and exercise, fire safety, financial planning, fraud protection, government services, hunting/fishing, personal safety and more. Health screenings will also be offered.
For more information about the senior expos, or to register as an exhibitor, contact Causer’s Bradford office at 814-362-4400. Information is also available at RepCauser.com or on Facebook at Facebook.com/RepCauser.
Richar Insurance & Tags – Galeton, PA is Seeking a Customer Service Representative
Richar Insurance & Tags is seeking a friendly, dependable, and motivated individual to join our team. We are a locally owned insurance agency and a Full Agent PennDOT Messenger Service, providing a wide variety of services to our community. This full-time position offers a diverse workday with opportunities to learn insurance, PennDOT title and registration work, and notary services. If you enjoy working with people, have strong computer skills, and take pride in providing excellent customer service, we’d love to hear from you.
Responsibilities
- Assist customers in person and over the phone
- Process PennDOT title transfers, registrations, and messenger service transactions
- Prepare and review documents for accuracy
- Perform general office and computer duties
- Assist with insurance customer service and policy processing
- Maintain a professional, courteous, and organized work environment
Qualifications
- Strong computer and keyboarding skills
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced office
- Pennsylvania Notary Public preferred, or willingness to obtain a commission
- Insurance experience or a Pennsylvania Property & Casualty license is a plus, but not required
- Willingness to learn and become licensed in Property & Casualty insurance
- Dependable, professional, and a team player
What We Offer
- Competitive pay based on experience
- Paid vacation and paid holidays
- No evenings or weekends
- On-the-job training
- Opportunities for professional growth and licensing
- A stable, family-owned business serving the community for many years
No experience with insurance or PennDOT services? That’s okay. We are willing to train the right person who has a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a desire to build a long-term career.
Interested applicants should submit a résumé and any relevant qualifications or certifications for consideration.
Lesley K. Post
Richar Insurance
29 Germania St, richar.lesley@verizon.net
Galeton PA 16922
Marilyn S. Balaban, 88, of Ulysses, PA
Marilyn S. BALABAN, 88, of Ulysses, PA, formerly of Warminster, died Monday, July 13, 2026, in Cindy’s Personal Care Home, Westfield. Born October 26, 1937, in Perkasie, she was the daughter of Alfred O. and Violet A. Cressman Smith.
She was married to Philipp Balaban, who survives. Marilyn was employed in sales in the printing business.
Surviving besides her husband, Philipp, are: nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by four sisters, Barbara J. Santee, Joyce Healy, Mary Smith, and Judith Brosey; and a brother, Al Smith.
Services will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
William and L.R. Gale Community Foundation
Scholarship and Grant Recipient Announcement
Four Galeton High School students and three graduate students have been awarded scholarships from the William and L.R. Gale Community Foundation. The 2026 scholarships totaled $192,000.00, with each student being awarded $4,000.00 per semester. This year’s recipients are:
High School Students:
Peyton Leuters, daughter of Karl and Melody Leuters, plans to attend Pennsylvania College of Technology, majoring in Accounting;
Isaac Miller, son of Jason Miller and Tyeshia Clark, plans to attend Mansfield University, majoring in Psychology;
Graduate Students:
Tyeshia Clark plans to attend Mansfield University, majoring in School Counseling;
Ashley Zengerle plans to attend Wilson College, 01majoring in Elementary Education;
Ed Vicic Shares Vision for Heritage Hall 1787 with Coudersport Rotary
At the July 13, 2026, meeting of the Coudersport Rotary Club at A&W West End Grill, Rotarian Julie Jeffers introduced guest speaker Ed Vicic, owner of Eddie’s on Main and the newly established Heritage Hall 1787 in Turtle Point.
A proud Port Allegany native, Vicic attended Kutztown University before living in Philadelphia and Rehoboth Beach. Drawn back to his roots in Potter County, he has built a business centered on hospitality, community, and celebration.
PFBC AWARDS GRANTS TO SUPPORT EDUCATION PROJECTS
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) announced today that it has awarded $197,446 in grant funding through its R3 Education Grant Program.
Through this program, the PFBC will support 16 education projects in 13 counties and one statewide effort to promote new and renewed interest in fishing and boating in Pennsylvania through the recruitment of new participants, retention of existing participants, and reactivation of former participants – collectively known as “R3.”
Special Committee of the Whole Meeting – July 22
Meetings are being livestreamed right on our website now:
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
AGENDA
July 22, 2026
- Pledge of Allegiance
- Roll Call
- Approval of Agenda
- Executive Session – Personnel
- Unfinished Business
- New Business
- Good of the Order
- Adjourn
Coudersport Rotary Club Welcomes New President and Officers
The Coudersport Rotary Club marked the beginning of a new Rotary presidential term during its July 13, 2026, meeting at A&W West End Grill with the installation of new officers and the traditional passing of the gavel.
Outgoing President Andrea Streich reflected on her two years of service, expressing her sincere appreciation for the support and encouragement she received from fellow Rotarians throughout her presidency. She spoke about the personal growth she experienced during her term and thanked the club for the opportunity to serve.
Jack Lavern Cox, 78, of Bradford
Jack Lavern Cox, 78, of 196 East Main Street, Bradford, passed away Sunday, July 12, 2026, surrounded by his family at Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Jack was born in Dushore, on November 12, 1947, he was son of the late Bruce and Irene (Curtis) Cox. He was a 1966 graduate of Dushore High School.
On December 11, 1967, he was drafted in the United States Army, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and was honorably discharged on June 19, 1970.
On March 13, 1971, in the Church of Christ he married Mary “Joan” (Detar) Cox who survives.
Jack was employed at Graham Packaging Company.
Surviving is he wife Joan of 55 years, two daughters, Wendy (James) Henry, of Custer City, and Jackie Cox, of Duke Center, two sons, David L. (Dianna) Cox, of Bradford, and Curt J. Cox, of Bradford, 17 grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, one sister, Donna Huey, of Arizona, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Robert Cox who died June 14, 2011, three sisters, and six brothers.
Family will receive friends on Saturday July 18, 2026, from 10 am to Noon in the B-Free Church, followed by funeral services at noon with Pastor Misty Surine officiating. Military honors will be accorded by members of the United States Army and the Honor Guard from the American Legion Post 108 of Bradford at McKean Memorial Park on Monday at 10 am.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the B-Free Church, 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 at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
This Is An Important Message From NY Alert
***UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE***
HEADLINE: NYS Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert for CORNELIOUS HEDGEBETH on July 14, 2026 at 11:13 am has been cancelled.
HEADLINE: Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert, 78 years old black/male wearing a white shirt, gray sweatpants, blue/black shoes
DESCRIPTION: At the request of the Rochester City Police Department, a New York State Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert has been issued relating to the disappearance of CORNELIOUS HEDGEBETH; age 78; from ROCHESTER , NY at 11:13 am on July 14, 2026.
INSTRUCTIONS: Click on the link for further details. www.criminaljustice.ny.gov
Issued By: NYS-DCJS-MPC
———-
For a permanent link to this Notification (may contain additional formatting and / or content which could not be sent), follow this link: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736728110#/event
NY-Alert Support – NYAlertSupport@its.ny.gov
Priscilla “Sue” Brown, 75, of Shinglehouse, PA
Priscilla Sue Brown, “beloved wife, sister, and aunt”
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Priscilla “Sue” Brown, 75, of Shinglehouse, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026, in Buffalo General Hospital, Buffalo, NY, after a brief illness.
Born on Thursday, January 11, 1951 in Wellsville, NY, she was a daughter of Charles R. and Mildred Jones Briggs. On December 10, 1970, she married William Beckwith, who passed away on April 23, 1977. On March 12, 1994 in Shinglehouse, she married Ronald C. Brown, who survives.
Sue was a graduate of Alfred-Almond High School in Almond, NY. She was employed at AVX Corporation in Olean, NY for 18 ½ years.
Sue enjoyed crocheting, Bingo, and watching NASCAR.
Surviving are her husband of 32 years; a brother, Cecil D. (Sandra) Briggs of Wellsville, NY; a sister, Arlene K. Wildman of Hornell, NY; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
In addition to her parents, Sue was predeceased by two sisters, Diana M. Ayers and Pamela A. Cooper; and a brother, Gary C. Briggs.
In keeping with Sue’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services.
Burial will be in East Sharon Cemetery, Shinglehouse.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Sue 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 Sue, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Linda D. Swift, Celebration of Life “services slated”
HEBRON, PA—Family and friends may gather to celebrate the life of Linda D. Swift, 79, of Hebron, from 10am to 12:30pm on Friday, July 17, 2026, in Hebron Seventh Day Baptist Church, 13 E. Carley Hill Road, Coudersport. A memorial service will follow at 1pm in the church with Pastor Steven Hinton, officiating. Linda will be laid to rest in the First Hebron Cemetery.
Linda’s husband entrusted her care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, Funeral Director/Owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
For further information, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com
David J. “Carrot” Marsh, 66, of Coudersport
David J. “Carrot” Marsh, “beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend”
COUDERSPORT, PA—David J. “Carrot” Marsh, 66, of Coudersport, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.
Born on Sunday, August 2, 1959 in Burlington, Vermont, he was a son of John A. Marsh and Levia T. Hall Marsh. On October 7, 2023, he married Paula L. Roberts, who survives.
David dedicated his life to the pipeline industry, beginning his career immediately after graduating from high school. He started as a laborer and earned his way through every level of the trade, working in the rock gang, drilling and blasting, and taking on whatever job needed to be done. His strong work ethic and determination quickly became the foundation of a remarkable career.
From a young age, David dreamed of becoming a welder. With the help of his stepfather, he purchased his first Lincoln SA-200 welding machine and spent countless days and nights in his garage teaching himself the craft. Through relentless practice, studying welding manuals, learning formulas, and mastering the mathematics behind fabrication, he developed into an exceptional welder and fabricator. He often spent layoffs building projects for friends and family in his garage. Around town, people knew that if you took it to “Carrot,” it would be done right.