Kathleen R. Derrick “beloved mother and grandmother”
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Kathleen Ruth “Kathy” Derrick, 77, of Shinglehouse, passed into the arms of her Savior on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.
Born Friday, January 2, 1948 in Bridgeton, NJ, she was a daughter of Millard and Grace Hetzell Shiles.
She was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School, Class of 1965, in Shinglehouse. Kathy married Gordon E. Derrick on September 18, 1983 and resided in Eldred for 9 years.
The Coudersport Area School District is seeking a highly qualified and collaborative leader to serve as the Business Manager. This individual will serve as the Chief Financial Officer for the District, overseeing a budget that supports approximately 675 K-12 students. The successful candidate will ensure fiscal integrity while supporting the educational mission of the Coudersport Area School District.
Minimum requirements include a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance; 3-5 years of experience in business management, preferably in school or municipal finance; and proficiency in financial software, Microsoft Word, and Excel. Applications will be accepted until January 28, 2026.
More information on the position can be found at https://www.coudyschools.net/page/employment. Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, resume, official transcripts, and all required clearances to: Alanna R. Huck, Acting Superintendent, Coudersport Area SchoolDistrict, 698 Dwight Street, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Susan Annette Huckabone, 84, of Warren, PA, died on Saturday December 20, 2025, in the Rouse Warren County Home. Friends may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East St. Warren, PA, on Tuesday December 23, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. Funeral services will follow at 5:00 pm in the funeral home with the Rev. Jeff Ewing, pastor of the First Lutheran Church, officiating. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery, Warren, PA. A complete obituary will be published when it’s available.
Last week in review: Closing out their pre-Christmas schedules, the wrestling and women’s basketball teams both saw action.
WRESTLING
Last week’s hometown highlights: Scoring most of its points in the upper weight classes during a 1-2 team day in the Messiah University Chocolate Duals on Saturday, Carter Davis, of York, at 165 pounds and Jason Petroski, of Randolph, New Jersey, at 184 both posted 3-0 days, Nic Brotzman, of Marietta, was 1-0 at 285, and Gavin Gomes, of Denville, New Jersey, finished 2-1 at 174. Also, Blake Dergham, of Slatington, ended 2-1 at 133.
SCHEDULE/RECORD
Overall: 3-3
AMCC: 1-0
Saturday, Dec. 20 — Messiah University Chocolate Duals vs. Arcadia University, L, 31-15; vs. Randolph College, W, 45-6; vs. Centenary University, L, 30-11
Thursday, Jan. 1 — vs. Roanoke College at Skyline High School, 6 p.m.
On December 17, 2025 at about 6:17 PM Jacob Burdic of East Otto was arrested for Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 3rd, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 5th, Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia 2nd, and for a Violation of Parole Warrant.
NYS Parole conducted a home visit of Burdic on Crumb Hill Rd. During the check, parole requested the assistance of Sheriffs Office K9 Nitro, who provided multiple positive indications in the residence. This led to the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Bureau obtaining a search warrant. The search warrant was executed by members of the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force and the Criminal Investigation Bureau.
The search led to the discovery of four unregistered hand guns, two illegal long guns, stolen property, a quantity of suspected methamphetamine, scales, and packaging. Burdic was arraigned at the Town of Ellicottville Court where he was remanded to the Cattaraugus County Jail. The investigation is ongoing with additional charges pending
The Coudersport Area Lions Club would like to thank the local community for their generosity this Christmas season. The Lions Club collected $1,343.50 in the Salvation Army Red Kettle. We’d also like to thank the Coudersport Shop & Save’s Stan Swank for allowing us to set up the Kettle at the store’s front this season. All donations collected at this site will be used by the Salvation Army to help Potter County residents in need. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Coudersport Area Lions Club!
Clare M. “Babe” Horchen, 96, a resident of Silvercreek Terrace and formerly of Maple Street, St. Marys, passed away peacefully with her family by her side, Friday, December 19, 2025 at Penn Highlands Elk.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.
Ramona M. ALLEN, 86, of Wellsville, NY, formerly of Alfred Station, died Friday, December 19, 2025 in her home. Born October 14, 1939, in Haverhill, NH, she was the daughter of Otis and Pearl Spink Moses.
On July 16, 1960, in Alfred Station, she married Russell L. Allen, who survives. A graduate of Batavia High School, she attended Alfred State College. Ramona was employed as librarian’s aide by Alfred-Almond Central School District. She was a member of Alfred Station Seventh Day Baptist Church.
Surviving besides her husband, Russell, are: three children, Laurie (Ron) Johnson of Wellsville, Shawn Allen of Andover, and Trina (Dwane Wildrick) Allen of Philipsburg, PA; seven grandchildren, James (Devin) Johnson, Kim (John) Foster, Jessamine (Brandon) Gallagher, Ivy (Zachary) Hoyer, Max (Kendall Feldmann) Johnson, Colby (Sara) Allen, and Hunter Allen; 13 great-grandchildren, Mackenzie (Jim Masterson) Johnson, Kortney Johnson, John Foster, Storm Foster, Brantley Gallagher, Oliver Gallagher, Adaline Gallagher, Odin McGraw, McKalynn Hoyer, Ana Hoyer, Ember Hoyer, Cameron Allen, and Andie Allen; and a great-great-granddaughter, Temperance Reedy.
She was predeceased by two brothers, John Moses and Teddy Moses. Services will be private. Memorials may be made to SPCA serving Allegany County or the Comfort House of Allegany County.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State St., Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
December 20, 2025 — As the year comes to a close, the United Way of the Bradford Area is asking the community to help bring its 100th Annual Campaign to a meaningful finish. While the campaign officially ends on December 31, donations will continue to be accepted through January, giving everyone a chance to be part of this historic moment.
For 100 years, United Way has been woven into the fabric of the Bradford community. It has shown up quietly and consistently—when families are struggling, when children need support, and when neighbors need a helping hand. Today, United Way helps fund more than 40 local programs each year, touching lives across Bradford, Port Allegany, and Smethport.
Myrna J. Graham, age 85, of Wellsboro, PA, formerly of Jacksonville Beach, FL, died on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. She was born on May 9, 1940 in Blossburg, PA, a daughter of the late Clifford and Kathryn (Wagner) Graham.
Myrna was formerly employed by Mosher’s 5 & 10 and the Mansfield Motor Inn. She was an accomplished seamstress, enjoyed swimming and the ocean. Myrna loved spending time with her family especially her grandchildren and her dogs.
She is survived by two daughters: Deborah Mosher of Jacksonville, FL, Terri (Jerry) Locey of Wellsboro, PA, two sisters: Joane Reese of Wellsboro, PA, Shirley (Kyle) Kenyon of Hillsborough, NC, two grandchildren: Caitlin Locey and Eric Locey.
She was predeceased by her longtime love: Joseph Swinsick, son: Tedd Buss, brother: James (Sheila) Graham, brother-in-law: William Reese. A private family service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Second Chance Animal Sanctuaries, 725 Gee Rd., Tioga, PA 16946.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. www.carletonfh.com Wellsboro, PA
HARRISBURG – Nearly $2.4 million in grants have been awarded for a variety of municipal equipment, infrastructure and recreation projects in Cameron, McKean and Potter counties, Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) and Sen. Cris Dush (R-25) announced today.
“From road work and flood mitigation to maintenance equipment and recreation investments, these grants support vital improvements in our communities to better meet the needs of residents,” Causer said. “I was pleased to advocate for these important local initiatives and bring this funding to our region, and I commend our local officials for making these projects happen.”
“Tropical Storm Debby caused catastrophic flooding in much of our area back in 2024 and has had lasting effects in areas like Coudersport and Emporium,” said Dush. “As someone who has been a strong advocate for funding to help rebuild these areas, I am pleased to see these flood prevention projects receive significant state support.”
The following municipal grants were awarded through the statewide Local Share Account program, which is funded through state gaming revenues:
Ceres Township – $140,000 for the purchase of a Ford F600 truck with a heavy-duty snowplow, tailgate spreader and wing plow package.
Corydon Township – $228,846 for the purchase and upfitting of a plow truck.
Coudersport Area Municipal Authority – $550,000 for the Park Avenue Levee sewer replacement project in Eulalia Township. The project is necessary for the borough to have its flood control levee certified.
Driftwood Borough – $60,242 for the purchase of a new Masey Ferguson Hydro-Compact tractor, with a bucket, backhoe and other attachments.
Eldred Township – $183,665 for renovation of the Sartwell Road bridge over Newell Creek.
Emporium Borough – $780,342 for nearly 7 miles of roadway work, including milling, paving and reconstruction to properly divert storm surge during high-water events.
Genesee Township – $76,209 for purchase of a new maintenance truck with attachments, including a plow, spreader and brine maker.
Lafayette Township – $99,968 to purchase a tandem roller for use in road maintenance.
Roulette Township – $85,000 for purchase of a mini excavator to maintain road and drainage facilities.
Additional grants were awarded through the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program, which is supported by impact fees assessed on natural gas production in the Commonwealth:
Genesee Township – $25,000 for upgrading playground equipment at the Genesee Township Park.
Tuna Valley Trail Association – $150,000 for construction and engineering for the Kinzua Trail Bridge Connection.
All grants were given final approval Thursday at a meeting of the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
Betsy A. “Betty Lou” McLANE, 73, of Bolivar, NY, died Wednesday, December 17, 2025 in her home. Born October 11, 1952, in York, PA, she was the daughter of Edwin and Mary Louise Albright Rowe.
She worked as a waitress and in food service most of her life. Betsy was employed by The Old Library and The Castle in Olean, Dave’s Diner in Ceres, Jim Day’s Sub Shop in Bolivar, Giant in Wellsville, and as a caregiver by ARC of Allegany-Steuben in Wellsville.
Michael G. KIRSCH, 73, of Rexville, NY, died Wednesday, December 17, 2025 in his home. Born August 24, 1952, in Buffalo, he was the son of Francis and Helen Ely Kirsch.
On October 15, 1999, in Rexville, he married the love of his life, Kathryn “Kitty” Boyle, who survives. A graduate of West Seneca East High School and Canisius University, he was employed by National Fuel from 1978 until his retirement in 2008.
Surviving besides his wife, Kitty, are: a son, Matthew (Viki) Kirsch of Hamburg; a daughter, Abigail (John) Swanson of Franklinville; three grandchildren, Owen, Abraham, and Naomi; five siblings, Ed Kirsch, Kathy Folaron, Jean Kirsch, Mark (Kim) Kirsch, and Anne Sperduto; nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a son, Emmett Kirsch, on March 27, 2022. Services will be private. Memorials may be made to the Whitesville Public Library, P.O. Box 158, Whitesville, NY 14897.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Leona M. Fritz, of St. Marys, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Elk Haven Nursing Home at the remarkable age of 103, having lived a long and full life.
She was born on May 27, 1922 in Emporium, PA, a daughter of the late George and Josephine Zwack Wortman.
On January 12, 1944, she married the late Richard B. “Dick” Fritz, who preceded her in death in 2005.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that additional charges were filed today against the man apprehended and charged by Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Bradley Walters with crimes against Gambit Ruse in Eldred. Kameron PHILLIPS, of Emporium, is now accused of Robbery, Persons Not to Possess (possession of firearm by disqualified possessor), and Theft. PHILLIPS is scheduled for a preliminary hearing next week.
Chief of Police Michael P. Ward of the City of Bradford Police Department announces that on December 13, 2025, at approximately 0100 hours, officers responded to Bradford Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Room (BRMC ER) to investigate an assault on ER staff and paramedics. Following a thorough investigation, it was determined that 25-year-old Haley N. Baker intentionally kicked a paramedic while they were performing their duties.
Additionally, Baker struggled with ER staff and assaulted another male victim, striking and kicking him while he was performing his duties. Officers arrested Baker for the assaults and transported her to the City of Bradford Police Station.
She was charged with Aggravated Assault, Disorderly Conduct, and Harassment. Magistrate William Todd arraigned Baker and set bail at $25,000 cash, which she was unable to post. Baker was subsequently remanded to McKean County Jail. Preliminary hearings for this incident are scheduled.
The City of Bradford Police Department takes incidents of assault very seriously and will utilize all available resources to prosecute these types of crimes to the fullest extent of the law. If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the City of Bradford Police Department at 814-887-4911. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Special Weather Statement National Weather Service State College PA 254 PM EST Fri Dec 19 2025 …LOCALLY HAZARDOUS TRAVEL CONDITIONS THIS AFTERNOON THROUGH THE EVENING COMMUTE…
Snow and blowing snow will result in locally hazardous travel conditions this afternoon through the evening commute. Motorists should be prepared for rapid changes in visibility and travel
