A long-time local columnist announced his retirement during the public-comment portion of the Lycoming County commissioners meeting Thursday.

The columnist, who identified himself as Larry and said he writes for Web Weekly, told commissioners he had decided to stop writing after 12 years and 688 articles because of health concerns and family caregiving responsibilities. “Life has just got too busy for me,” he said, and thanked county officials and department heads for cooperation over the years.

Commissioners and staff offered tributes in response to the announcement, praising his writing for taking the “high road” and for telling positive stories about the county. One commissioner noted the columnist’s volunteer work with local fire companies and committees and wished him and his wife well. Another commissioner said the columnist’s pieces helped present Lycoming County to readers beyond the county and thanked him for his service.

The columnist’s retirement was received with appreciation and applause; the transcript records several commissioners and members of the public expressing thanks and sharing personal memories of interactions at fairs and in the community.