(Washington, D.C., September 18, 2026) — U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced today the awarding of over $26 million to farmers and agricultural producers across the country through the USDA Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG) Program. Entities can use these grant funds to develop value-added agricultural products, conduct market research, and implement business and marketing strategies.
“While the Biden Administration waged economic war against our ranchers and farmers, the Trump Administration is focused on putting our ranchers and farmers first. These grants represent another investment in the Great American Cattle Herd as we fortify the American beef industry,” said Secretary Rollins. “By supporting our ranchers and agricultural producers as they develop new products and increase the value of what they grow and raise, we’re helping to create new revenue opportunities to grow the herd and create long-term economic resilience in rural communities across this nation.”
Wendy P. Holland “A gentle soul with fierce strength”
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Wendy Paige Holland, 59, of Shinglehouse, PA, went home to be with her Lord and Savior after a short but courageous battle with cancer. She passed peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, September 13, 2026, at UPMC Shadyside, Pittsburgh, lovingly surrounded by her children and husband.
Wendy is survived by her husband, Gary Bernard of Shinglehouse; her children, Linsey Jimenez, Vogue (Aaron) Bryant, Orion (Kristy) Bernard, and Alexander Bernard; her grandchildren Jacob, Lola, Genesis, Abel, Galilee, Ezra, Barrett, and Everett; her mother, Carol Holland; her sisters and best friends, Suzanne (Gary) Young, Gemini (Bill) Cousins, and B.J. (Pat) Howard; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, William Holland.
Although her life was marked by ongoing medical issues, she was better known for her deep love of family, her generosity in serving others, and her unwavering faith in God’s goodness. Her life was a reflection of humble service and sacrifice for the people and places she loved most. Wendy took pride in serving her church as the Benevolence Treasurer and leading the Prayer Blanket Ministry.
Wendy found joy and beauty all around her, treasuring the simple miracles of hummingbirds visiting her porch, changing her seasonal flags, and watching the flowers bloom. She was the glue of her family relationships and her fondest memories were of playing games with her kids (especially Old Maid) and doting on her beloved grandchildren. Her spiritual perseverance and glass-half-full perspective on life encouraged all who knew her.
To respect Wendy’s wishes, no formal funeral or public services will take place. We invite you to honor her life by choosing to savor each day with your loved ones with a humble and thankful heart.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Wendy’s name can be made to the First Baptist Church, Operation Christmas Child ministry, PO Box 68, Shinglehouse, PA 16748 or to Camp Judson, 398 Holliday Rd, North Springfield, PA 16430.
Wendy’s legacy of strength and courage will live on through her family, church, and community.
“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13
Wendy’s family entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, Funeral Director/Owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Wendy, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
James P. Silvis, 74, of Edgewood Road, Bradford, passed away Friday, September 18, 2026, at Bradford Manor.
Born March 16, 1952, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Robert P. and Dorothy “Dottie” L. (Case) Silvis.
He was a 1970 graduate of Bradford High School and later attended Jamestown Community College.
Jim was employed in sales most of his life.
Jim was an accomplished guitar player and singer. He played in several local bands including Underwood Exchange. In his spare time he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan.
Surviving is one daughter, Jayme L. (Kevin) Litterini of Pittsburgh, two grandchildren, Hannah and Hunter Litterini, one sister, Debra Lee (Tony) Tadlock, of Charlotte NC, one brother, Craig (Leslie Genzano) Silvis, of Bradford, one niece, Amy (Zygmond) Selinski of Lorton VA, and two nephews, Daniel (Monique) Silvis of NC, and Andy Russell, of Charlotte NC.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Peggy Lynn Silvis and one brother, Robert J. Silvis.
At Jim’s request, there will not be any public services. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Allan M. “Whitey” White, 61, of Rodgar Lane, Bradford, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, September 18, 2026, surrounded by family and friends while at home.
Born May 18, 1965, he was a son of the late Joyce M, (McKay) and Max C. White.
Whitey attended Bradford school and Bradford High School.
On September 22, 2012, in Bradford, he married Angela L. (Abrams) White who survives.
After high school Whitey worked at PipeEye Sewer Services, Allegheny Contractors out of Ridgway, Pepperell Braiding Company in Bradford and prior to his illness was employed with the Sanitation Department at Bradford Township.
Whitey had a passion for dirt bike racing, four wheeling, snowmobile riding. He loved being outdoors, hunting, and especially a good campfire. He was quick-witted and very funny to all who knew him.
Surviving in addition to his wife Angela of nearly 14 years, is one son, Owen Tingley, of Olean, NY, his mother-in-law, Darlene (Jim) Venezia-Skaggs, of Marshburgh, his sister-in-law Stefanie (Tyler) Reed, of Bradford, and one brother-in-law, Timothy (Guinn) Abrams, of Brook IN.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
At Whitey’s request, there will not be any public services.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the SPCA, or the charity of the donor’s choice.
American Network of Community Options and Resources: This week, I met with the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), which represents service providers for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since its founding in 1970, ANCOR has served countless Americans with disabilities, advocating for policies that enhance and support their lives and their families. I had productive discussions about legislation I proudly support, the Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act. I commend this group for their hard work in supporting men, women, and children with disabilities across the United States.
Losing Connie Clery: Over the summer, the nation lost a dedicated advocate for improving the safety of American college students, Connie Clery. After her 19-year-old daughter Jeanne was senselessly raped and murdered on a Pennsylvania college campus in 1986, Connie Clery became a champion for campus safety. Her advocacy led to the passage of the Clery Act, which requires colleges to disclose their campus safety policies and information about crimes that occur on and near their campuses. September is National Campus Safety Awareness Month, and I introduced a bipartisan resolution this week to honor the life and legacy of Connie Clery. She took her family’s tragedy and transformed it into a national movement to make college campuses safer, and Connie Clery’s vision and legacy will live on through the work of the Clery Center.
Honoring Agriculture Teachers: On Thursday, we recognized the contributions of the men and women who cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders during National Teach Ag Day. I was pleased to introduce a resolution with my colleagues to honor the teachers who encourage younger generations to participate in agriculture, which is an investment in our future and national security. As Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, it’s an honor to work with teachers who are committed to the success of the industry, and to ensuring future producers have the necessary skills to thrive. Thank you to all the Ag teachers across the country who help support our nation’s farmers, ranchers, foresters, and producers.
Galeton’s 21st Annual Fall Fest – Today was a great day to attend the 21st Annual Galeton Fall Festival. This annual event is sponsored by the Galeton Area Chamber of Commerce. John and Theresa Tubbs – chairpersons of this year’s event, were very pleased with the turnout, along with 41 vendors displaying their items around the perimeter of Berger Lake at John J. Collin’s Park. From wreaths, various flavors of maple syrup, homemade donuts, to wines from Twisted Vine Winery from Kane, there was a variety of items for those attending to purchase and enjoy. Music was provided in the morning by House of Sterling and in the afternoon by Ryan Doud. The photo shows the vendors lining the lake – the weather was perfect for this annual event. Photo by Andy Lychalk, Jr.
HARRISBURG, Pa (September 17) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) Boating Advisory Board will meet on Monday, September 28, 2026, beginning at 9 a.m. at the PFBC headquarters located at 1601 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110. The meeting is open to the public.
The complete schedule and agenda for this meeting is available on the PFBC website (Fishandboat.com).
This meeting may be viewed remotely by joining the webinar from your internet browser using this link: Join the September 28 Meeting
BRADFORD, Pa. — The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford will recognize Dr. BioDun J. Ogundayo, associate professor of French and comparative literature, and Russ ’75-’77 and Rebecca ’76-’78 Myer during Alumni and Family Weekend Sept. 25-27.
Ogundayo will receive the Pitt-Bradford Alumni Association Teaching Excellence Award, and the Myers will receive the Denny Lowery Distinguished Volunteer Award, at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, during the Alumni Awards Dinner in the Mukaiyama University Room, Frame-Westerberg Commons.
Ogundayo, who joined the Pitt-Bradford faculty in January 2001, is a Fulbright U.S. Scholar and director of both the Africana studies and foreign languages programs. He earned his Ph.D. in French and Francophone literature and cultures from the State University of New York at Buffalo and holds master’s degrees from Queen’s University in Canada and the University of Lagos, Nigeria, where he also earned his bachelor’s degree.
He has taught at institutions across four countries, including the University of the West Indies in Barbados, the University of Alberta in Canada, Ogun State University in Nigeria, and Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington.
Romainne Kelley ’11 nominated Ogundayo for the award, recalling how he made sure students felt welcome in his classroom and wove in stories from his own life and folktales to connect coursework to the world around them.
“It has been 13 years since I graduated and 15 years since I took his course, and he still can regale me with a story or two about my time in his class,” Kelley wrote in her nomination.
Kobe Bradley ’26 said Ogundayo’s teaching style — talking to the class without slides or a workbook — pushed him to want to learn more and inspired him to study abroad for the first time and pursue a minor in Africana studies.
Russ and Rebecca Myer have volunteered at numerous alumni events, including Light Up the Quad and Pumpkin Fest. Russ Myer joined the PBAA board in 2021 and currently chairs its Scholarship and Advancement Committee; he also serves as the board’s representative to the Pitt Alumni Association.
“Russ and Rebecca’s dedication to Pitt-Bradford is something you can truly feel,” said Heidi Scrivo, president of the PBAA. “I have had the opportunity to serve alongside Russ on the Alumni Association Board, and whenever he talks about Pitt-Bradford, there is a genuine excitement and pride in the way he speaks about the university and what it means to him. Russ and Rebecca have both been incredibly dedicated supporters of Pitt-Bradford, giving their time and energy because they genuinely care about the university and its students. They are very deserving of the Distinguished Volunteer Award, and we are proud to recognize them.”
Ogundayo and the Myers will be recognized alongside this year’s Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. Tickets for the dinner are $25 for adults, $12 for children ages 6-12, and free for children age 5 and under. Reservations are required, and business casual attire is requested. To make a reservation, visit upbalumni.org/afw26 or call the alumni office at 814-362-5091.
2026 graduates of the RGS Women’s Intro to Wingshooting Program.
Coudersport, Pa.: Ten women from all over Pennsylvania and one woman from Ohio attended the 4-day (2 weekends) Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) Women’s Introduction to Wingshooting Program recently held at the Black Forest Conservation Association in NC PA. All of the graduates were then offered a Chukar and Pheasant hunt at God’s Country Wingshooting Preserve near Coudersport.
Bethany Ford, bjmf989@gmail.com, leads the program and offers this insight, “If you want to learn how to shoot a shotgun safely for target practice or learn to hunt birds of all types, then this program is for you. As long as you are over the age of 11, you can participate in this ‘women-teaching-women’ program.” The program will be offered for a weekend in July in 2027 and then another full program once again in August. A hunt for graduates of both programs will be held in September.
“Next year we are going to make the instruction days longer and complete the program in one full weekend as we have many women tell us that they can’t make both weekends, but can make one or the other weekend,” said Bethany.
All graduates of the RGS program complete a review of the program, and here are some exact comments from this year’s graduates:
It was empowering to learn from skilled female hunters and shooters, and the environment felt welcoming and encouraging rather than intimidating.
It was a very welcoming and encouraging environment, especially for someone like me who was stepping completely outside of her comfort zone.
I like the shooting experience and the information we got about different topics.
I like the knowledge every single instructor brought with them and their passion for all of it.
Lodging is available, if needed, but is limited. For women interested in pay-for lodging, consider staying at a local inn, AirBnb, or a Bed and Breakfast, all near Coudersport, Pa.
You must register to attend this course, and it is on a first-come, first serve registration basis. The program is already half-full for next year. Contact Bethany Ford at bjmf989@gmail.com to register for next year’s Women’s Intro to Wingshooting program offered by the RGS.
Saratoga Potato Chips of Fort Wayne, IN, is recalling two Best if USED BY codes of 7.75-ounce packages of J. HIGGS Loaded Bacon and Cheddar Potato Chips because they may contain undeclared soy allergen. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
The recalled J. HIGGS Loaded Bacon and Cheddar Potato Chips were distributed in the states of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Maryland and sold in Save A Lot stores.
The product J. HIGGS Loaded Bacon and Cheddar with UPC code 0-51933-31645-4 comes in a 7.75-ounce, flexible multi-layered laminated metallized package marked with Best if USED BY DEC 11 26 and Best if USED BY DEC 18 26 on the top right corner of the bag.
No illnesses or injuries have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
The Children’s Advocacy Center of McKean County (CACMC) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Forensic Interviewer. The Forensic Interviewer conducts high-quality, developmentally appropriate forensic interviews with children and teens who are suspected victims of abuse. The position works closely with law enforcement, Child Protective Services, prosecutors, and other members of the multidisciplinary team to support the investigation and protection of children.
Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Schedule interviews and accurately document interview results.
Collaborate with law enforcement, CPS, prosecutors, and victim advocacy professionals.
Communicate interview findings clearly in multidisciplinary and legal settings.
Provide court testimony and documentation when required.
Follow CACMC, National Children’s Alliance, and multidisciplinary team standards.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Master’s degree plus 2 years of experience interviewing children from abusive or dysfunctional environments; or
Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience.
At least 2 years of professional experience working with children and families where abuse or violence is an issue.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Experience with criminal justice, child welfare, or forensic interviewing is preferred.
Interested applicants are invited to apply by completing a McKean County job application and submitting a resume. Please forward to: McKean County Human Resources, 500 West Main Street, Smethport, PA 16749 or by email to: HR@mckeancountypa.gov. Applicants may also apply online at Indeed.com. We are an equal opportunity employer, M/F/D/V.
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. and LOUISVILLE, Colo., September 15, 2026 – Danone USA is issuing a voluntary recall of So Delicious Dairy Free® Salted Caramel Cluster Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert pints with best-by dates on and before April 3, 2028 due to the potential presence of foreign materials, such as small stones and other hard objects, within the cashew inclusions.
The recalled product is packaged in pint containers and includes the indicated best-by dates and codes below. No other So Delicious Dairy Free® codes, flavors, or products are affected.
The recall applies to product with best-by dates on or before April 3, 2028. The recalled product was distributed to retail stores within the United States.
Theresa Annette (Pelletier) Alivez, 84, of Coudersport passed away Wednesday September 16, 2026, at UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport. She was born December 19, 1941 in Van Buren, ME to Roy and Theresa Pelletier. She earned her bachelor’s degree and taught in Van Buren, ME and Los Angeles, CA. On December 18, 1967 she married Robert Avilez, with whom she shared 48 years of marriage. Theresa was a member of St. Eulalia Catholic Church in Coudersport and was an avid knitter who enjoyed knitting towels, washcloths and sweaters.
She is survived by her son: Joe Avilez (Christina) of Coudersport; three grandchildren: Alexander Avilez of Coudersport, Carlotta Smoker (Issac) of Betula, PA, and Bryce Line of Shippensburg, PA; and a sister: Claire Majernik of Austintown, OH. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and a brother: Louis Pelletier.
In accordance with her wishes, there will be no public services and her arrangements have been entrusted to the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home 210 North East Street Coudersport, PA 16916. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit www.thomasfickinger.com.
Ann E. Frey, 88, of Vine Road, St. Marys, Pa, wife of Maurice Frey, passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 peacefully from a lengthy illness, surrounded by her loving family.
Ann was born on June 8, 1938 in New York City, NY, to the late Victoria Sheneen Sayyah.
Ann was employed by St. Mary’s Powdered Metal Factory for many years. After retirement she worked temporarily for Muccio School Bus Company as a school bus driver.
Ann was a devoted Christian who found peace through her love of God. She loved spending time with her family and friends, dancing with her husband, Maurice, to country music, and looking for bargains at the local Walmart as she visited with friends, passers-by or anyone willing to talk with her. She was always willing to give advice, whether you wanted it or not. When she would meet up with acquaintances, she would have a song to sing to them about whatever topic she was advising you on. Ann was kind and generous with a contagious laugh and friendly smile that would lighten up your heart.
Along with her husband of 69 years, Maurice, she is survived by her daughter, Ruthanne Barbazzeni (Ronald) DuBois, PA, and by three sons; William “Bill” Frey, St. Marys, PA, Michael Frey (Lori), Byrnedale, PA, and Mark Frey (Joanne), Reynoldsville, PA. Ann is also survived by seven grandchildren; Manuel Barbazzeni, Cory Frey, Evan Frey, Jenna Lawrence, Hannah Dibble, Alissa McLaughlin, and Haley Frey and by four great grandchildren; Lilly Ann Frey, Isaac Lawrence, Kaia Frey, and Isabella Lawrence.
Ann was preceded in death by her mother, Victoria Sayyah, brothers John Sayyah, Anthony Sayyah, Joseph Sayyah, and a sister Helen Sayyah.
In honor of Ann’s wishes, there will be no public services. A private celebration of life is being planned and will be held at a later date.
Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital or to the Penn Highlands Community Nurses Hospice.
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
BRADFORD, Pa. — The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford will induct three new members into its Athletic Hall of Fame at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Alumni Awards Dinner in the Mukaiyama University Room, Frame-Westerberg Commons. The dinner is part of Alumni and Family Weekend.
This year’s inductees are Bret Butler, founding head coach of the Pitt-Bradford baseball program; Maggie Johnson Tortatice ’13, a standout on the volleyball team; and Alicia Kimmel ’15, a record-setting member of the women’s basketball team.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (September 17) — The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is once again seeking applicants for grants to support education programs that 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.”
The grant application period is open beginning today, September 16, 2026, through December 1, 2026. The application and additional information can be found on the PFBC website (Fishandboat.com).
BRADFORD – Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) issued the following statement in response to Kaledia Health’s announcement it will move forward with plans to close The Pavilion nursing facility after failed negotiations with LECOM Health:
“Kaleida Health strikes again!
“Kaleida Health announced today the closure of The Pavilion at Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC). In its statement, officials claim they made every effort to find an alternative to the closure. But facts matter, and unfortunately the executives at Kaleida are continuing their long history of hiding the truth and refusing to work with our community.
“Here are the facts: After months of discussion and negotiations, Kaleida Health failed to negotiate in good faith. At a recent meeting with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Kaleida Health notified LECOM they now refuse to the sell the building to them. They alternatively stated that they might lease the building, but LECOM would have to accept a noncompete agreement in perpetuity. This would effectively ensure that BRMC would never again operate as a hospital.
“That is what this has always been about – Kaleida Health doesn’t want to provide hospital services in Bradford, and they are 100% focused on preventing any other healthcare system from providing the care our citizens need and deserve.
“Kaleida Health and Olean General Hospital are benefiting to the tune of millions of dollars because there is no hospital in Bradford. I strongly believe this is a violation of antitrust, and I have called on the PA attorney general to investigate Kaleida for such.
“We all deserve better. We need a respected healthcare system we can work with to provide care here. Community leaders continue to meet and are exploring alternatives that would provide real care for the Bradford community, including the possibility of an outpatient emergency department or the construction of a micro-hospital. We are not done fighting.”
BRADFORD, PA — Kaleida Health has resumed the closure plan that was submitted in February for The Pavilion, the long-term care facility, at the former Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC).
On February 16, The Pavilion submitted a formal closure notice for its long-term care services to the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PADOH) due to ongoing and escalating pressures which made the continued operation of The Pavilion financially unsustainable. A copy of the closure plan was shared with the Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General at that time. The notice was accepted and approved by the PADOH, with an original anticipated closure date of May 2.
On February 25, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and Kaleida Health began discussions regarding the potential acquisition by LECOM of the former BRMC campus, including The Pavilion. Kaleida Health temporarily paused the closure plan while the organizations explored whether an agreement could provide a sustainable path forward for the campus and the Bradford community.
Those discussions continued over the following months. On September 8, the LECOM Board of Directors met and voted not to move forward with the transaction. On September 9, Kaleida Health was made aware of the decision. Discussions between the organizations have concluded and LECOM will not be acquiring The Pavilion.
As a result, Kaleida Health will resume the closure plan for The Pavilion that was originally submitted to PADOH in February. The plan was resubmitted and accepted to PADOH on September 14, with an anticipated closure date on or before December 1.
“We understand how deeply personal this is for our residents, their families and our employees,” said Don Boyd, CEO, Kaleida Health. “For many residents, The Pavilion is their home. For our employees, it is a place where they have cared for people they know and love. We recognize that a transition like this brings uncertainty, concern and emotion, and we will do everything we can to support those who are affected.”
The Pavilion is more than a long-term care facility. It is a home for residents and a place where dedicated employees have built relationships with residents and their families while providing care, comfort, hope and championship. Kaleida Health understands the significance of this decision and the uncertainty it creates, and we are committed to approaching the transition with compassion and respect.
Throughout the discussions with LECOM, Kaleida Health remained committed to finding an agreement that would be an alternative to closure, consistent with the charitable mission of both organizations and, most importantly, serve the long-term care needs of the community.
The Pavilion currently serves 45 residents. Kaleida Health’s highest priority throughout this transition will be the health, safety and well-being of every resident. The Pavilion team will work closely with residents and their families to provide information, answer questions and help identify appropriate alternative care settings. There are currently two other long-term care facilities in Bradford and six additional facilities in the surrounding area.
“We know that moving from a place you have called home is emotional,” said Boyd. “Our responsibility is to make sure every resident and family receives the individualized attention, compassion, respect and support they deserve throughout this process. We will take the time necessary to help make this transition as thoughtful and supportive as possible.”
The Pavilion’s employees have played an important role in caring for residents and supporting their families. Kaleida Health is committed to supporting the 80 employees affected by the closure and will work directly with them to identify employment opportunities within Kaleida Health, including Olean General Hospital.
Kaleida Health will continue to communicate with residents, families, employees, providers and the community as additional details regarding the transition become available.
