USDA Announces Rural Leadership Appointments
These proven leaders will strengthen rural policy and ensure continuity
(WASHINGTON, D.C., June 23, 2026) — U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins today announced a series of leadership appointments at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including new roles within the Rural Development mission area. These appointments reflect the Department’s continued commitment to implementing President Trump’s America First agenda and putting Farmers First across rural America.
Neal Robbins Appointed as Senior Advisor for Rural Engagement
Neal Robbins will serve as Senior Advisor to the Secretary. Robbins previously served as Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development, where he led a portfolio of more than 80 loan, grant, and technical assistance programs supporting rural housing, utilities, broadband, community facilities, and business development.
Dunkin’ Donates To Coudersport Alliance Church Food Pantry As They Celebrate Grand Opening
Free Coffee for 100 Days giveaway and charitable donation headline event in Coudersport
COUDERSPORT, Pa. (June 23, 2026) – Members of the local community and Dunkin’ fans alike poured into Dunkin’s newly built next generation restaurant at 199 U.S. 6 in Coudersport on Friday, June 12, as part of its grand opening celebration.
Dunkin’ franchisee Rahul Prajapati of Coudersport Donut LLC commemorated the occasion with a $3,000 donation to the Coudersport Alliance Church Food Pantry, in conjunction with the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation. Since 1998, the Coudersport Alliance Church has offered food and other tangible resources to meet the needs of the local community.
Mary P. Wilcox, 82 Of Limestone
Limestone – Mary P. Wilcox passed away Thursday, June 18, at Buffalo General Hospital.
Born January 18, 1944, Mary was the daughter of Raymond and Jean Bess. On July 7, 1962, she married Thomas L Wilcox, who predeceased her on Sunday, March 14, 2021.
Mary loved spending her free time quilting and knitting. She worked for Todd’s as a school bus driver for the Otto-Eldred School District. She was a member of the United Methodist Church, where she worked as a secretary and also assisted with the food missions.
Mary is survived by sons, Dennis (Tammy) Wilcox of Eldred, PA, and Robert L (Ada) Wilcox of Durant, OK; daughters, Tammy (Jerry) Peterson of Bradford, PA, and Sherrill (Pete) Sciortino of Franklinville; a grandson, Bruce (Jamie) Wilcox, whom she and her late husband raised, and five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Guenther Funeral Home, 1303 E. State St., Olean.
Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com
Aaron Gies Casts Ballot in NY-23 Congressional Primary
Olean, NY — Aaron Gies, Democratic and Working Families candidate for Congress in New York’s 23rd Congressional District, cast his ballot early this morning with his wife, Katie, and son, James, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Olean.
“It’s surreal,” said Gies. “I never imagined I would be in the position of voting for myself. As someone who has spent his life serving communities, I always answered the calls of service as they presented themselves. We are living in unprecedented times where families are facing a terrifying affordability crisis and our democracy is under threat. Representative Nick Langworthy has been instrumental in helping President Trump execute Project 2025, and it is time to stand up and say, ‘no more’. I feel very confident about the incoming results of the Primary, and my campaign is looking forward to continuing to build out a broad coalition of support.”
Gies will spend the day traveling throughout the 6,000 square mile district to thank campaign volunteers who are making phone calls and knocking on doors today. As a former poll worker, he also looks forward to thanking poll workers. Gies and his family will be attending the Erie County Democratic Committee watch party this evening.
Aaron Gies is running against Kenmore resident and personal-injury lawyer Kevin Stocker. The winner of the Democratic Primary will face the incumbent, Rep. Nicholas Langworthy, in November.
For more information about Aaron Gies for Congress, please visit aaronforny23.com.
Lea M. Miller, 93, Formerly Of Lewis Run
Lea M. Miller, 93, formerly of Lewis Run, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the Bradford Manor surrounded by her loving family.
Born January 31, 1933, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Alessandro and Luigia (Macchieto) DelMonego. She was a 1951 graduate of Bradford High School.
On July 18, 1959, at the Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church, Lea married Francis G. “Bud” Miller, who preceded her in death on March 29, 2013.
Lea formerly worked at Zippo Manufacturing Company, Lewis Run Post Office, and Glendorn from where she retired.
She was a former member of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church and currently a member of St. Bernard Church.
Surviving is her daughter-in-law, Bonnie Miller, of Bradford, two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews, great grand nieces and nephews, and great great grand nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Bud, one son, Joseph Miller, who died November 20, 2022, two sisters, infant sister, Joanne, and Victoria Taylor, four brothers, Albert DelMonego, Deno DelMonego, John DelMonego, and Mario DelMonego.
A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held in the Divine Mercy Chapel at St. Bernard Church. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
Putting Affordability First, House Republicans Position Largest Tax Cut in Pennsylvania History
HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania House Republican Leader Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Fulton) said Monday that House Republicans have positioned legislation that includes the largest tax cut in the history of Pennsylvania with the passage of House Bill 2224. The bill would eliminate the near 6% gross receipts tax on utility bills, cutting taxes on Pennsylvania’s families by $1.7 billion.
“House Republicans have been leading on affordability measures based in tax cuts that can immediately slash the bills paid by Pennsylvanians and put more money in the pockets of our working families,” Topper said. “Our tax cut proposal, included in House Bill 2224, will eliminate a significant tax paid by Pennsylvanians for using the utility services they rely on in nearly every aspect of their lives.”
Topper noted affordability through tax elimination has been a cornerstone of the House Republican Caucus’ message on affordability throughout the current legislative session.
“House Republicans inherently believe Pennsylvanians are better off when they have more of their own money to spend and the government gets out of their way in how they can spend it,” Topper said. “The elimination of the gross receipts tax would save every Pennsylvania family more of their hard-earned money and make a huge difference to the many Pennsylvanians looking for government’s help in making their lives a little easier.”
House Bill 2224 passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Monday by a unanimous vote.
Michael R. Bowes, 80, Of Ridgway
Michael R. Bowes, 80, of Ridgway, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Heritage Ridge Senior Living.
He was born on March 3, 1946, in Lock Haven, a son of the late Edward and Margaret Zerbe Bowes.
On June 3, 1972, he married the late Ruth E. Simchick, who preceded in death in 2022.
Mike proudly served with the Pennsylvania State Police, where he specialized in driver’s testing, retiring in 1993. Following his retirement, Michael continued his dedication to the well-being of young people as the School Resource Officer at SMAHS from 1995 until 2005.
A devoted member of St. Leo’s Parish and the Knights of Columbus, Mike lived a life grounded in faith and service. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His commitment to helping others extended throughout the community. Among his greatest joys was working with young athletes as a dedicated coach for Ridgway Little League. He spent countless hours teaching the fundamentals of baseball and softball while instilling lessons of teamwork, sportsmanship, respect, and perseverance.
He is survived by a son, Aaron Bowes and his wife Colleen of Kersey; a daughter, Suzanne Cotter and her husband Joe of Bellefonte; and six grandchildren: Maddie, Sam, Maria, Talia, Frank, and Zelia. He is also survived by four sisters-in-law; Sharon Bowes, Roselyn Simchick, Sandy Myer, and Marilyn Bowes, a brother-in-law; Terry Myer, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by two children in infancy; Laura and Travis Bowes, two brothers; Edward “Bud” and Steven Bowes, five brothers in law; Sylvester, Joseph, and Richard Simchick, Cliff Snyder, Tom Mitchell, and six sisters in law; Barbara Bowes, Maryann Simchick, Lucy Myer, Catherine Snyder, Dorothy Mitchell, and Georgiana Simchick.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Leo Magnus Church, 111 Depot Street, Ridgway, PA,15853, with Fr. Justin Pino officiating.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Krise Funeral Home, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA, 15853, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853, is handling the arrangements,
and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com
Good Samaritans Honored for Helping Neighbors in Need
Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) recently joined members of the Rew Volunteer Fire Department to recognize the efforts of two young good Samaritans who saw neighbors in need and stepped up to help without hesitation. The ceremony honored the quick actions of Gabe Glantz and his sister, Lilly, in responding to people in need of medical help. They are the son and daughter of Andrea and Bryan Glantz.
Vandalism and Public Intoxication on Mechanic Street in Bradfors
On June 19, 2026, at approximately 12:26 a.m., the City of Bradford Police Department responded to a call on Mechanic Street regarding a male suspect damaging car mirrors. Upon arrival, officers located the defendant, a male, identified as Michael Makinen, who was found to be highly intoxicated.
Further investigation revealed evidence indicating that Makinen was responsible for intentionally punching out the car mirrors. Makinen was taken into custody and charged with public intoxication and criminal mischief. He was later released, but charges have been filed, and court dates will be set in the matter.
All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The City of Bradford Police Department is committed to maintaining public safety and addressing incidents of vandalism and disorderly conduct. If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the department at 814-887-4911.
Daniel E. Lampman, 76, Of Harrison Valley, PA
Daniel E. LAMPMAN, 76, of Harrison Valley, PA, died Monday, June 22, 2026, in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport. Born August 6, 1949, in Coudersport, he was the son of Hugh and Ruth E. Merrick Lampman.
He was employed by Harold Sherwood logging and driving a truck. In later years, he worked as a truck driver on pipeline construction. Dan played guitar and loved music. He was a Johnny Cash fan. Dan and his brother, Charles, worked on and raced cars.
Surviving are: nine children, Mistie (Charles D.) Ahearn, III of Harrison Valley, Candy Lynn (Michael) McQuay of Port Angeles, WA, Tracie Tuthill of Corning, NY, Gary (Connie) Lampman of Westfield, Delbert H. Lampman of NC, Claude Lampman of NC, Danielle Lampman, Tonya Lampman, and Heidi Futscher; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a nephew, Timmy D. (Dolores) Lampman of Little Marsh; and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Charles F. Lampman; and his stepfather, Albert Robbins.
Private burial will be in Riverview Cemetery, Potter Brook, PA. Memorials may be made to Harrison Township Vol. Fire Co., 112 E. Tannery St., Harrison Valley, PA 16927.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Gerald L. “Jerry” Rawson, 75, of Lawrenceville, PA
Gerald L. “Jerry” RAWSON, 75, of Lawrenceville, PA, formerly of Germania, died Friday, June 19, 2026. Born October 31, 1950, in Wellsboro, he was the son of Arnold Mansel and Lura Ione Eberenz Rawson.
On June 2, 1973, in St. Mattheus Lutheran Church, Germania, he married Sharon M. Gorg, who survives. Jerry built Rawson General Contracting with his hand-picked crew and developed life-long friendships. He is and always will be well known for his superb fine craftsmanship and ability to fix anything and everything. His many gifts are showcased in many homes and buildings throughout the area, fully restored vehicles and tractors. He graduated from Wellsboro and moved to Germania where he found his wife, Sharon, and built a full life as a highly sought contractor known for the quality of his work. His passion involved solving challenges and anything with his hands. He pursued his work, hunting, boating, camping, taking care of Folded Hills Farm and anything with his family. Rarely is one man endowed with so many talents. He could do anything he put his mind to and was unparalleled as a carpenter, electrician, plumber, and mechanic.
Surviving besides his wife, Sharon, are: his beloved fur-baby, Bennie; a daughter, Kellie (Jim) Succowich; a son, Lt. Col. Joe (Ann) Rawson, USAF Retired; three grandchildren, Tressa, Ava, and Jeff; brothers, David (Connie) Rawson and Jim (Sharon L.) Rawson; sisters, Lois Richter, Nancy Tayton, and Jane (David) Miller; and many well-loved nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter, Annette Lura Rawson; a sister, Sally Rawson; and brothers, George Rawson, Allen Rawson, and Harold “Dickie” Rawson. Friends may call at Germania Non-Denominational Church, 55 Rausch Rd, Germania, PA 16922 on Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, with a Memorial Service following at 12:00 PM. Rev. M. Thomas Shatto will officiate. Burial will be in Germania Cemetery. Memorials may be made to any animal care sanctuary.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Linda Lee Stebbins Whitesell, 81, Of Andover, NY
Linda Lee Stebbins WHITESELL, 81, of Andover, NY, passed away Friday, June 19, 2026, in Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester. Born January 19, 1945, in Wellsville, she was the daughter of Leland and Ethel Downey Stebbins. She was a 1963 graduate of Whitesville Central School.
On August 19, 1989, she married G. Ronald Whitesell, who predeceased her on January 10, 2026. Linda retired from Highland Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Wellsville as the director of housekeeping. Linda enjoyed gardening, canning, reading, embroidering, sewing, family gatherings, and cooking for her family. She was very proud of her grandchildren and the lives they were living. She always looked forward to seeing them and spending time with them.
Surviving are: her daughters, Deborah (Kevin) Miller of Coudersport, Dawn (Joseph) Correll of Clinton, WI, and Roni Marie Whitesell of Brockport; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; a brother, Wayne (Donna) Stebbins; two sisters-in-law, Susan Stebbins and Linda Stebbins; several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by three brothers, Ronald Downey, Harold Stebbins, and Harvey Stebbins.
A graveside service will be held at 12:00 Noon, Friday, June 26, 2026, in Whitesville Rural Cemetery. A gathering will follow at the family home at 1309 Hallsport-Independence Road, Andover, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Potter County Human Services Is Hiring
Potter County Human Services is hiring for the following positions:
(Local Government)
Potter County Children and Youth Services
County Caseworker 2
Posting Dates: June 11, 2026-June 24, 2026
Potter County Mental Health/ID
County Social Service Aide 2
Posting Dates: June 12, 2026-June 25, 2026
County Fiscal Officer 1
Posting Dates: June 23, 2026-July 6, 2026
Potter County Area Agency on Aging
Aging Case Aide 1
Aging Case Aide 2
Aging Care Manager 1
Posting Dates: June 23, 2026-July 6, 2026
Apply at: www.employment.pa.gov
Applicants may call 814-544-7315 with questions.
Potter County Human Services is an Equal Opportunity & Affirmative Action Employer
Hamlin Memorial Library Is Seeking A Part-Time Library Assistant
Candidates would be expected to engage in daily library operations, as well as assist with library programming and fundraising, and be willing to go the extra mile.
We are seeking someone energetic and upbeat with good communication skills and a working knowledge of computers/technology.
Criminal background clearances are a State requirement.
Candidates must possess a willingness to work with the Director and Board to promote the library and its mission.
Please send resume to Hamlin Memorial Library, PO Box 422, Smethport, PA 16749. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Snack Attack Began Today At The Barbara Mescato Brown Memorial Library
The Barbara Moscato Brown Memorial Library has once again partnered with CHOP Out Hunger – Towanda (Child Hunger Outreach Partners) for the Summer Snack Attack Program, and the snacks are now available to pick up during regular library hours.
The program is free and open to all area children 2-18 (if younger and eating solid foods, they can also have snacks). No registration needed. Parents or children can stop into the library once a day, sign in on a log sheet, and take one item from each bin provided. The program will continue until we run out of snacks, which we anticipate to be the end of August 2026.
Karen L. Troutman, 82, Of Bradford
Karen L. Troutman, 82, of Gilbert Lane, Bradford, passed away Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Olean General Hospital.
Born October 18, 1943, in Altadena, CA, she was the daughter of the late William M. and Betty L. (Brocious) Goss.
She was a 1961 graduate of Bradford Area High School. She later attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
On March 28, 1964, in the First Presbyterian Church, she married David L. Troutman who preceded her in death on November 4, 2018.
Karen was formerly employed at Case Cutlery & Sons and happily retired in 2004.
She was a member of the Eagles Club and the Lady Investor’s Club.
Karen enjoyed a good book, good company, and a good laugh. Those who knew her understood that she could dish it out and take it all with a smile. She enjoyed gardening, camping, fishing, traveling, cooking, watching sports of any kind but especially football and tennis, feeding and watching the wide array of birds she attracted to her deck, and most especially the company of her family and many friends.
Surviving are two daughters, Kristine Troutman, of Bradford, and Melissa (Daniel) Wright, of Fort Myers, FL, eight grandchildren, Kyle (Kara Steffey) Eck, Grace (Michael Yaeger) Hutton, Bill Eck, Josh (Natashia) Wright, Joe Wright, Jake Wright, Trisha Eck, Lindsay Eck, five great grandchildren and one sister, Connie (Bruce) Phearsdorf, of Allegheny NY, her loving companion, Ben Troutman and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband David and one brother, David W. Goss.
Family will receive friends on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 11 AM to 1 PM in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc., 33 South Ave., followed by funeral services at 1 PM with Rev. W. LeRoy Beckes, retired Presbyterian Pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Willow Dale Cemetery.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to Bradford Area Public Library, 67 West Washington Street, Bradford, PA 16701.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
Kerry L. Bobenrieth, 54, Of Bradford
Kerry L. Bobenrieth “beloved”
BRADFORD, PA—Kerry L. Bobenrieth, 54, of Bradford, passed away in her home with her loving family by her side on Saturday, June 20, 2026, after a long illness.
Born on Tuesday, October 5, 1971 in Olean, NY, she was a daughter of Terrance and Sherry Tanner Ryan.
Kerry was a graduate of Port Allegany High School. She was employed at Burger King in Bradford until retiring due to ill health.
She enjoyed crocheting and loved her many cats over the years. Her greatest love was her family, especially her grandchildren.
Left to cherish her memory are her mother, Sherry Ryan, of Turtlepoint; a daughter, Kassandra R. Bobenrieth of Bradford; two grandchildren, Michael Peterson and Rylar Peterson; a sister, Merry Marsiglio of Turtlepoint; two nieces, Megan Ryan and Breana Marsiglio; a nephew, Nickolas Marsiglio; and a grandnephew, Ronan Marsiglio.
There will be no public visitation. A celebration of Kerry’s life will be held on a date and place to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Kerry’s name may be made to the McKean County SPCA, 80 Glenwood Avenue, Bradford, PA 16701.
Kerry’s family has 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 Kerry, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
New Scholarship Honors Memory Of Bo Ray Nunn
The generosity of a caring community member helps a family heal.
Bo Ray Nunn, the daughter of Paul and Hanna Nunn of Bradford, was born on July 11, 2025, and tragically passed away on the same day. The family received significant support from many members of the broader community as they began to recover from the loss. As part of those efforts, the Nunns got a unique offer that gave them the opportunity to honor their daughter while also helping others.
“I have become very close to Beverly Perry through my job as manager of the Bradford Club and she suggested the idea of creating a scholarship at Pitt-Bradford that would honor Bo and provide financial support to students that needed it,” notes Paul Nunn, a 2015 hospitality management graduate of the University.
“It just seemed like a wonderful way to turn our sorrow into something good that could make a positive difference in someone else’s life,” adds Hanna Nunn. “We were also incredibly honored that Bev wanted to do this for our family.”
The Bo Ray Nunn Scholarship at Pitt-Bradford was officially established earlier this year and will first be awarded to a student during the 2026-27 academic year. The Nunns note that this gift is indicative of the tremendous spirit and generosity of Beverly Perry, a longtime Bradford community leader and regular donor to Pitt-Bradford. It has also inspired them to look for additional ways to give back and “pay forward” the incredible kindness they have received.
“Anyone who knows Bev, and her late husband Bruce, knows that she has always been dedicated to giving back and making her community a better place,” adds Paul Nunn. “Her first instinct is to give, even in times of tragedy, and that has been very inspiring for both Hanna and I.
To learn more about creating a scholarship at Pitt-Bradford, contact the university’s Office of Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement at 814-362-5091 or visit the giving page.
Kathleen Ann Tantalo Age 80, Of Bradford
Kathleen Ann Tantalo, age 80, of 47 Bolivar Drive, Bradford, passed away Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Buffalo General Hospital, surrounded by her son, Larry, and her daughter, Tracy. She was the last of her immediate family.
Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am on Saturday, June 27, 2026, in St. Bernard Church with Fr. Ed Walk as Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
