Clinton County Thanksgiving Reflections: Community Leaders and Residents Share What They’re Most Thankful For in 2025
From a four-year-old’s perspective to insight from city council members, discover what makes Thanksgiving special in Clinton County through the words of those who live and serve here.
By Emily Wright
LOCK HAVEN, PA—As the annual chill and the aroma of roasting turkeys settle over Clinton County, residents from across our towns and townships are pausing to reflect on what Thanksgiving means to them, and the blessings that enrich their lives. From county commissioners and city leaders to children and public servants, the voices of our neighbors offer a tapestry of thankfulness, hope, and deep connection.
Joel Long, Mayor of the City of Lock Haven, reminds us of the privilege and joy found in home and community. “Thanksgiving is about sharing time with family and pausing to appreciate all we have. It’s more important now than ever to remember all the things we have to be thankful for. We truly are fortunate to live where we live. And have so many talented people who work to make where we live a better place.”
Lock Haven City Council Member and highest vote-getter in the recent municipal election, Barbara Masorti, echoes this sentiment of shared gratitude. “Thanksgiving is a great time to reflect on gratitude. This year, I am grateful for so many things. My grandsons bring me so much joy, and I am grateful that I get to spend time with them. I’m grateful that I live in a community that works together to make our area a wonderful place to visit, live, and work.”
Also fresh from election night, newly elected City Council Member Micah Clausen brings a perspective that acknowledges both challenge and hope. “We live in a world where things go wrong and we are often discouraged by things not being the way they used to be. Don’t dwell on something negative or a loved one that is no longer with us; be thankful for hearing, being heard, seeing, being seen, loving, being loved. Also, physical, mental, and emotional health, both yours and those that you love. No matter what difficulty you are dealing with, there is always a billionaire on their death bed who would trade you places.”
For four-year-old Haidyn Chrisenberry, daughter of Jeffrey and Hannah Chrisenberry and the inspiration behind Haidyn’s Hen Pen LLC—a charming roadside stand on Antes Fort Front Street in Jersey Shore featuring farm-fresh eggs, sourdough, and handcrafted gifts from local vendors—thankfulness comes in a simple yet heartfelt form. “My chickens and my dogs,” she announced without hesitation, later adding, “My baby chicks… And my food.” For Haidyn, Thanksgiving is also about enjoying her favorite foods: “Broccoli and cranberry sauce,” she said with a bright smile.
John Gradel, Castanea Township Supervisor, finds his gratitude in the energy and commitment of the county’s residents. “This Thanksgiving, I’m really thankful for the vibrant, active community we have here in Castanea Township and across Clinton County. We’re surrounded by neighbors who care, who show up, who put in the work, and who want to see this area grow and thrive. I’m grateful for the people who push our community forward while still holding onto the classic values that make this place what it is. It’s something special to be part of, and I don’t take it for granted. Wishing everyone a safe, happy Thanksgiving!”
For Clinton County Commissioner Angela Harding, Thanksgiving is not only a time for reflection but also for action. “To me, Thanksgiving means gathering with people you love and enjoying time together. It also means being thankful for life’s opportunities and lessons. Finally, it means giving…helping those in need, remembering and serving those less fortunate, and offering a little extra, whether it be time, food, or care to lift others up.”
Desiree B. Myers, County Chief Operating Officer and Human Resources Administrator, also centers her gratitude on the strength of family and community. “To me, Thanksgiving means pausing to appreciate the people who anchor my life with love, purpose, resilience, gratitude, and kindness. This year, I’m deeply thankful for my children, my community, the work that allows me to serve them both, and the moments of grace that carried us through.”
County Commissioner Jeff Snyder keeps tradition close at heart. “Thanksgiving is a special Holiday for me. It is a time for our family to gather and express our appreciation for the blessings of health and happiness that we have enjoyed.”
Rick Schulze, the dynamic new manager of Downtown Lock Haven Inc., expressed gratitude for the support found in friends and neighbors. “Thanksgiving for me, like the rest of the holiday season, is a time for us to have gratitude for our lives and especially our friends, community, and loved ones. I am thankful for my loving and supportive friends and our community.”
David Winkleman wears many hats: Pine Creek Township Supervisor, Broker/Owner of Anchor Realty, LLC, and President of The New Love Center. His message weaves together faith, family, and service: “Thanksgiving is a time for family, reflection, and great food! This year, I’m especially thankful for God’s continued provision and guidance. We had the joy of celebrating the baptisms of my wife, our four youngest children, and I, which was such a blessing. In business, even though it’s been a slower year, we’ve still been fortunate to serve many wonderful new and old friends with their real estate needs. We’re grateful to have remained steady in a year when many agents have taken second jobs or left the industry,” Winkleman shared. “We’re also thankful for the ministries we get to be part of. This year, we found a new church home at Mountain View Alliance and are working to develop a plan to impact Jersey Shore with the love of Jesus. At The New Love Center, it’s been a year of tremendous growth and change…We’ve been blessed by the support of community members, businesses, and even local governments as we continue to be ‘where the love of Christ provides for all.’”
Finally, young Josie McCann, a local sixth-grade student, reminds us with touching clarity what Thanksgiving is truly about. “Thanksgiving means to gather around with your family and be thankful for what you have. I am thankful for Jesus, because he died on the cross for us, and to have a house, water, food, and my family.”
As tables are set and stories are shared across Clinton County this year, it is clear that the spirit of Thanksgiving is alive in every home, business, and heart. May we all find gratitude—in every moment, big or small—and carry it forward throughout the year.
On behalf of the team at The Record, Happy Thanksgiving, Clinton County!
