Causer to Host Additional Property Tax/Rent Rebate Assistance Clinics
The annual Property Tax/Rent Rebate Clinics hosted by Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) will continue during the week of Feb. 24 with the following events:
· Smethport Senior Center, 119 W. Main St., Smethport: Tuesday, Feb. 25, 9-11 a.m.
· Port Allegany Senior Center, 216 N. Main St., Port Allegany: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
· Ulysses Senior Center, 522 Main St., Ulysses: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
· Galeton Public Library, 5 Park Lane, Galeton: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2-3:30 p.m.
· Mt. Jewett Senior Center, 8 E. Main St., Mt. Jewett: Thursday, Feb. 27, 1-3 p.m.
The service is free, and no appointment is required.
Louis R. Heinaman, 81, of 746 Interstate Parkway, Bradford, PA

Louis R. Heinaman, 81, of 746 Interstate Parkway, Bradford, passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, at Olean General Hospital.
Born January 22, 1944, in Olean NY, he was a son of the late Harry and Gertrude (Dempsky) Heinaman. He was a 1963 graduate of Bradford High School.
On January 22, 1989, in Kane, he married Janet G. (Lehman) Heinaman, who survives.
Betty A. Kurtz, 81, of Galeton, PA

Betty A. Kurtz, 81, of Galeton, PA, passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025 at her home.
Born June 24, 1943 in Wellsboro, PA, she was a daughter of the late Harry and Mary (Kennedy) Driebelbies. Betty was a 1962 graduate of Wellsboro High School. She was married to Carl Kurtz, who survives.
She was a Supervisor at Osram Sylvania in Wellsboro for many years. She was a member of the Pine Creek Valley Church, the Gaines Thimble Club and was the manager of the Galeton Senior Center for several years. Betty enjoyed doing puzzle books, adult coloring books and cooking.
Marilyn K. Forness, 85, of Wellsville, NY

Marilyn K. Forness, 85, of Wellsville, passed away on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in her home with her family by her side. She was born October 7, 1939, in Bradford, PA, the daughter of the late James H. and Katherine T. (Pockalny) Smith. On October 17, 1959, she married Thomas W. Forness, who predeceased her on July 19, 2021.
Marilyn was a 1957 graduate of Portville Central School. She entered the work force and was employed by Clark Brothers (Dresser-Rand) from 1957 to 1964. In 1964, she and her husband moved to Wellsville, to follow Tom’s career in law enforcement. For many years, she was employed by American Greetings & Hallmark; and handled merchandising for Proctor & Gamble and various other companies. Outside of her employment, she was a member of Beta Sigma Phi and Gamma Pi Sororities. Above all else, she was a mother and housewife, family was her priority all the time; including her beloved dogs, Jeter and Buddy who have passed, and Sassy J, who survives.
One Vehicle Accident In Johnsonburg

On February 19, at 3:34 pm Johnsonburg Fire and Ambulance were dispatched to 357 Powers Ave. for a vehicle vs tree accident with possible injuries. The vehicle hit the tree at a high rate of speed with entrapment. Stat Medivac has been dispatched. Update Traffic has been shut down in both directions
District Attorney and McKean County Law Enforcement Remember Patrolman Steve Jerman
In memoriam Kane Borough Patrolman Steve Jerman
District Attorney and McKean County Law Enforcement Remember Patrolman Steve Jerman
McKean County Law Enforcement honors the memory of Patrolman Steve Jerman, who was shot and killed during a traffic stop on February 20, 1999.
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer: “Patrolman Stephen Jerman’s memory is honored by McKean County Law Enforcement and the District Attorney’s Office. A respected member of his community and law enforcement family, Patrolman Jerman made a heroic sacrifice 26 years ago. In any circle, he is remembered as a teacher, mentor and friend.
Today is a solemn anniversary to honor a local hero whose death impacted not only the community he served but law enforcement across the state and members of law enforcement who came after him.
It is a life well-lived that lets us know how deep of an impact his death has made. And the memory of Patrolman Steve Jerman remains solidly implanted.
On this anniversary, we honor Patrolman Stephen M. Jerman and offer heartfelt prayers to his family and we want them to know we will continue his legacy and we will honor it.
On behalf of the McKean County District Attorney’s Office and the McKean County Law Enforcement community, I express our sympathy and respect. We vow to honor and remember our fallen officer Patrolman Steven Jerman.”
“PIRATE SCHOOL: SEA DREAMS,” A MADCAP, SWASHBUCKLING SHOW FOR ALL AGES TO BE PERFORMED AT THE DEANE CENTER IN WELLSBORO

David Engel as Pirate Professor Billy Bones.
The Deane Center for the Performing Arts is presenting “Pirate School: Sea Dreams,” a madcap, swashbuckling solo show created and performed live by veteran New York actor David Engel on Friday, March 14 at 7 p.m. in the Coolidge Theatre at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro.
“Pirate School: Sea Dreams” allows kids and their caregivers the chance to live out their dreams of daring adventure and quench their undeniable thirst to join the briny buccaneers of yore. Because children crave to be part of the action, all of Mr. Engel’s shows feature immersive full-audience active participation.
Set to an original cartoon-inspired musical score, complete with sound effects, Engel as Pirate Professor Billy Bones teaches the finer points of lighthearted mischief and offers up zany lessons on how to stand, talk, sing and laugh like a boisterous buccaneer, all while promoting good manners, polite behavior and social courage.
Children have a natural fascination for adventure and the pirates’ life on the high seas. With eye-popping puppetry, eccentric props, and slapstick sword play, Pirate School is a riotous, interactive variety show suitable for all ages. Where else can you find a talking skull and the world’s only wearable pirate ship?
The show’s run time is 60 minutes without intermission. Children are encouraged to wear pirate costumes.
Tickets are free for youngsters ages 2 and under; $10 for children ages 3 to 12 and $15 for those 13 and older, including adults. For tickets, call 570-724-6220 or visit deanecenter.com.
District 9 Playoff Tickets Only Available Through Online Purchase
PIAA District 9 playoff tickets must be purchased online.
No tickets will be sold at the door.
Link to purchase tickets:
www.bit.ly/piaad9-tickets
The Coudersport boys and girls basketball teams have entered the PIAA
DIX playoffs.
This Friday the girls will be hosting Oswayo Valley at the Coudersport
High school. The game will begin at 7:00pm.
The boys will be traveling to Keystone High School, also for a 7:00pm start.
ALL PLAYOFF TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED ONLINE. No physical tickets will be sold at the door.
UPMC Experts: Protecting Your Heart During Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment has advanced significantly, helping more people live longer, healthier lives. However, some of these lifesaving therapies—such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted treatments, and radiation—can have unintended effects on the heart. This is known as cardiotoxicity, and it can lead to serious heart conditions both during and years after treatment.
To help protect heart health during cancer care, cardiologists and oncologists work together as a team to prevent, diagnose, and treat heart issues in cancer patients.
How Cancer Treatment Affects the Heart
While certain cancer therapies are crucial for treating the disease, the heart and blood vessels may be affected. The following conditions may be caused:
- Congestive heart failure – When the heart struggles to pump blood effectively
- Myocarditis – Inflammation of the heart muscle
- Arrhythmias – Irregular heartbeats that can cause dizziness or fainting
- Premature coronary artery disease – Narrowing of the heart’s blood vessels at an earlier age than expected
- Pericardial disease and effusions – Inflammation or fluid buildup around the heart
Calling all DEMOCRATS!
Belmont, NY – All Democrats registered to vote in Allegany County are invited to participate in a general session on Saturday, February 22 beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the Alfred Village Hall Theater, 7 W. University St., Alfred, NY. The session will take place on the second story, which is accessible by elevator. Coffee and snacks will be served.
Attendees will hear from candidates for local office and other special guests. The afternoon will begin with a plenary discussion on current affairs and end with a roadmap for the party’s efforts in 2025. We anticipate a lively, informative, consensus-building discussion.
Advance registration is required. Please use this link: https://forms.gle/FM7x9zT69yPMWiLZ9
Straub Brewery in St. Marys is Site for RGS Birds ‘N’ Brews on March 1

St. Marys, Pa.: Straub Brewery will be the host site for the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) Birds “N” Brews on Saturday, March 1, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Straub Brew House @Straub Tap House at 444 Brusselles Street in St. Marys, Pa. Anybody interested in conservation and hunting are invited to attend and talk to members of the local chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society. Birds ‘N’ Brews is an opportunity to talk birds and habitat, enjoy the camaraderie and share stories of your passion for upland bird hunting, and tell stories about bird dogs and the birds that are still flying.
This event is for conservationists, bird dog handlers, hunters, chasers of the “King of Game Birds”, and storytellers. All are welcome, particularly potential new hunters.
The Straub Tap House will offer many fine, locally made, beverages for sale, including non-alcoholic brands, and will also have food to order. Come join us for an evening of reminiscing about past autumns. Pick up a flyer that highlights local RGS and bird dog events for 2025.
Come raise a glass, talk conservation, and celebrate our shared love for grouse, woodcock, and the wild places they call home.
Two overnight lodging accommodations are nearby. The Cobblestone Inn is on Depot Street. Gunners Inn is on St. Marys Street on the diamond in downtown St. Marys. Contact Jed Hamberger at jedhamberger@gmail.com, if you have any questions.
PITT-BRADFORD PROGRAM TO HOLD KIDS’ CORNER NIGHT
Young children who have been stuck indoors and their grown-ups can spend an evening doing fun activities with college students on Wednesday.
University of Pittsburgh at Bradford students enrolled in the TRIO Student Support Services program are holding a Community Kids’ Corner from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 19 in the Frame-Westerberg Commons on campus.
The event is free, but children must have an adult with them. Play and craft stations include making slime and stress balls, Play-Doh, puzzles, Legos, coloring, bracelets. Juice and cookies will be provided.
Christopher John Hetrick, 46, of Ridgway, PA

Christopher John Hetrick, 46, of Ridgway, PA, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025.
Chris was born on December 31, 1978 in St. Marys, PA.
On October 28, 2015, Chris married the love of his life, Tammy Mosier, who remains to cherish his memory. He was a devoted husband, a beloved son, a caring brother, and a dear friend to many.
Roger B. “Pug” WALTER, 89, of Gaines, PA

Roger B. “Pug” WALTER, 89, of Gaines, PA, died Tuesday, February 18, 2025 in his home in the loving care of his wife, daughter, and Family Hospice team.
Born July 10, 1935, in Mills, he was the son of Benjamin G. and Thelma A. Sherwood Walter. A U.S. Army Veteran, he served honorably from 1954 – 1956. He was married to Joan Anderson, who survives. Pug was employed by Consolidated/Dominion, retiring in 1992.
He and his wife owned and operated P&J Machining for many years. He was well-known for being able to fix almost anything brought to him for repair. Pug always said he could fix anything but a broken heart. He was a member of Pine Creek Valley Church in Gaines, member and Past Master of Galeton Masonic Lodge #602 (now part of Lewisville Lodge #556 in Ulysses), and Coudersport Consistory.
Phyllis M. Muhitch, 85, of St. Marys, PA

Phyllis M. Muhitch, 85, of St. Marys, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, February 17, 2025.
She was born on December 15, 1939 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late John and Miriam Kreckel Arnold.
On November 19, 1960, she married the late Joseph D. Muhitch, who preceded her in death on August 9, 2013. Together they shared more than 53 years of love, laughter, and marriage.
Phyllis was a graduate of Central High School and was a member of St. Marys Church. She worked for many years at the St. Marys Public Library, and then retired from Elk County Christian High School after more than 15 years as the Librarian. She was a dedicated and organized librarian who inspired a love for reading and learning in many people over the years. In her free time, she enjoyed trips to the casino. Most of all, she loved and cherished her family and always delighted in spending time with them.
CELEBRATE CRAFTS AND CUISINE THIS WEEKEND IN WELLSBORO
This Weekend in Wellsboro there will be a free program on cougars, the last three performances of “Miss Holmes Returns;” free ice-skating, free, live, flameworking demonstrations and local artisans and culinary delights.
Gyekis to Present Cougars: What’s Real and What Isn’t? at Nessmuk’s Sporting Goods
At 6 p.m. this Friday, Feb. 21 at Nessmuk’s Sporting Goods at 91 Main Street in Wellsboro, Kerry Gyekis, an author, forester and investigator for the Cougar Rewilding Foundation, will present a free program for the public on his investigation into mountain lions in the Eastern United States. For more than 42 years, Gyekis has traveled across America in his quest for the truth about the mountain lion also known as a cougar, puma and panther. He will discuss hoaxes, sightings, evidence, tracks, tracking and the biology of the species. Preregistration is not required.
Last Three Performances of “Miss Holmes Returns” are Feb. 21, 22 & 23

















