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HEADLINES: Montrose Chamber Picks Citizens Of The Year The Montrose Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2003 Citizens of the Year, David and Priscilla Andre. Dave and Biff have been longtime area residents, and have been a vibrant part of the area community and the county. They have both helped to make a difference, each in their own way. Dave and Biff, which they are affectionately known as, actually met as babies in their parents’ arms! Both sets of parents were good friends.
Dave was raised in Montrose, graduated from the Montrose High School and then from Penn State University. He served in the United States Navy and then became a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve, retiring as a Commander, in 1995. Dave started working in the family business as a youngster. From eighth grade on, he worked summers and after school. Andre & Son Inc. was established in 1914 by his grandfather, Floyd Andre, which is an agricultural based business. His father, DeWitt, joined the business in 1931 and then his three sons: Neil, Dave and Joe joined the business in the 50’s and 60’s. The business is affiliated with Agway and True Value. Due to the business, Dave has been involved with the Susquehanna County Extension Service, as a member of the Board of Directors; the Annual Dairy Day event held at the Elk Lake School in March, which is the largest Dairy Day in the state; the Farm City Feast Committee; and, the Dairy Princess Program. Biff’s family had a summer home in Montrose, where Dave and Biff are now living. She grew up in Rosemont, near Philadelphia, and graduated from Lower Merion High School there. She went on to graduate from Wells College in Aurora, NY, and Goucher College in Towson, MD. She started her teaching career in Haddonfield, NJ. In 1959, she married Dave and then continued with teaching from 1970 to 1993, at the Lathrop Street Elementary School in Montrose, as a first grade teacher. Extra curricular activities, which involved children and youth, included the Leader of the Senior Girl Scout Troop in the 1960’s; Director of the Carol and Youth Choirs at their church, Montrose United Methodist, for 25 years; as well as, teaching in the Sunday School and Vacation Bible School programs. An avid music lover, with a special love for Barbershop, Dave was founder and director of the Montrose Harmony Men from 1985 to 1997. He is presently a member of the Southerntiersmen Barbershop Chorus, in Binghamton, NY, serving as assistant director, and singing with a senior quartet named "Yesterday". He also was into instrumental music, playing trombone in the high school band, the Penn State Blue Band, and more recently, the Buddy Spencer Band, a local dance band. When his children were in high school and playing in the band, Dave served as president for the band’s support group, the Band-Aides. Dave is currently director of the Adult Wesleyan Choir at his church. Over the years, Dave has had a great variety of interests, which have involved him in the community in a number of ways. He has been a member of the local Rotary Club, announcer for 4-H horse shows during the years his daughter was involved with riding her special horse, director of the July Fourth races in Montrose, and you may have seen him running and biking the area roads! Biff also has inclinations to be involved in community activities, which she has done as chairperson of the Blueberry Festival breakfasts, the July Fourth breakfasts, and as a volunteer at the Susquehanna County Historical Society. She loves being outdoors, and you may also see her on the area roads walking, or off-road cross-country skiing, and in the summertime on tennis courts and swimming the local lakes! Both of them may be found with binoculars to their eyes watching for birds, anywhere from Woodbourne Forest to the far reaches of Alaska, and points in between! Their family has hosted five Rotary exchange students, a Girl Scout exchange student, and three Fresh Air children, one of which became like a member of their family and has had very close ties throughout the years. Their three children, David, Carolyn and Peter, all worked during their teen-age years at the family store, all graduated from Montrose High School, and all have brought much joy and pride to their parents! The Chamber of Commerce will host a special dinner to honor Dave and Biff, on May 17, at the Montrose Bible Conference Lake Avenue Dining Hall. The gathering will begin at 5:30 p.m., with dinner being served at 6:00 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend. Tickets may be purchased at the following locations: Lee’s – 278-3711; Craige’s Store – 278-1116; and, The Butler’s Pantry – 278-2191. Leadership 2020 Begins 3rd Year The third leadership development program for Susquehanna County began in early March with a kick-off weekend hosted at the Community Foundation of Susquehanna County. The group of twelve participants, all residents of the county, have been meeting every other Monday evening at various locations around the county. Some of the topics that are being explored include leading meetings, community power and decision making, change and conflict, values and ethics in leadership and meeting the challenge at the local level. All in all, the program provides 30 hours of information, skills and knowledge to assist individuals to assume positions of leadership within the community. The program will end with graduation, on June 16 at the Montrose Bible Conference.
Pictured (l-r) are: front row – Carol Potter, Amy Payne, Audrey Rickard, Carrie Lesinski, Christina Carter, Brandy Pitcher; back row – Suzanne Brant, Cynthia Arsenault, Richard Masters, Austin Price, Mary Jo Warner, Robin Arnold. If you have questions on any aspect of the program, contact one of the planning committee members or Joann Kowalski at the Cooperative Extension office at 278-1158 or by e-mail at jmk20@psu.edu. The Leadership 2020 Planning Committee consists of Rosi Hibbard, Joe Burke, Debbie Dissinger, Ray Osburn, Marilyn Talboys, Bob Welch and Marilyn Haskins.
Pictured is Paul Deck, receiving his 30-year pin and Certificate of Appreciation for his years of service on Rural Route One, Hallstead, from Hallstead Postmaster Gail Mroz. Wilkins' Visit With PA Lt. Governor Pictured are Barney Wilkins (left), Gibson Township Democratic Committeeman and his wife, Melissa (right), visiting with PA Lt. Governor Catherine Baker Knoll (center) Friday, April 4, in her office while on business at the State Capitol. On Monday night, March 17, St. Pat’s Day, a large number of the residents at Turnpike Terrace (T. T.) gathered in the dining hall to partake of a dinner of ham, cabbage, potatoes, etc., along with a delicious "greenish" cake. (The slogan: "We are all Irish tonight.") During the evening, music was furnished for the listening and dancing pleasure by Maestro Terry Rockwell. The seniors joined in with sing-alongs, consisting mainly of Irish tunes. Several door prizes were awarded.
Making the evening quite enjoyable were the volunteers who helped serve the more than fifty guests. They were Agnes Roy, Mary Diaz, Elfrieda Lee, Marion Glover, Betty Powers, Phyllis Oropallo, along with Marsha Testa, Senior Center Manager. Making sure that everyone was served with "gold" chocolate candy and skipping around in her little Irish suit was ten-year old Katlyn Adam, Mrs. Testa’s granddaughter. As I have stated many, many times, what would we do without our hospital, our firemen, our police, our skilled nursing facility? Now, the same can be said about the Turnpike Terrace apartments. The apartments may not be home, but I can tell you, they are a Godsend to many people. The rooms, the hospitality and care received is second-to-none. So, it’s Hats Off to all the men and women who staff the senior apartments in the county and those with the foresight to see the need for the complexes. Along with Senior Center Manager, Mrs. Testa, other personnel that oversee the fifty apartments are Project Manager, Vicki Swanson and Management Aide, Ruth Ann Semple. Pictured (l-r) at a testimonial dinner held March 22, at American Legion Post 86 in honor of Chris Davis for her many contributions to the community are: Joe Bucci, Brian Price, Linda Norris, Chris Davis, Jesse Gow, John Bronchella, Pete Janicelli. Blue
Ridge Senior Center Update March is a month of many weather surprises. We had sunny days, gloomy days, snowy days, rainy days, cold days and warmish days. In like a lion, out like a lamb, or is it the other way around. On one of those very rainy days an Open House was held in honor of Goldie Small of New Milford, as we celebrated her 95th birthday. There were 75 plus people out, and everyone had a joyful time sharing this special day with Goldie and her family. Finger foods and a beautifully decorated birthday cake were enjoyed. The rooms were decorated with balloons, spring flowers and wall hangings in pastel colors. Many thanks goes to Betty K. and the volunteers for all the planning and the undertaking to achieve this great day.
Of course the annual corned beef and cabbage dinner was enjoyed by many. We had all the usual foods that go with the above, carrots and potatoes, Irish soda bread and a great desert. Again thanks to all who cooked or helped in anyway to make this a festive occasion. Gene Ritter once again made his annual visit to us - helping out with our tax returns. This is a great service and there is no cost. We had some speakers. Nancy Moro, a representative from the Forest City Personal Care Nursing Facility spoke about the many services offered by that facility. She also showed slides of the building and its many features. We found this very informative. Also Dr. Brian Bordeaux of the Endless Mountain Health Systems, who has offices in New Milford, gave a talk on "How to Live Longer," a very good subject for all us senior citizens. We listened and made mental notes and also took the leaflets he passed out. Both speakers gave us much needed information. Thanks. The crafters also had a day. A. C. Moore in Binghamton sent an instructor to help us make a lovely door-piece. It can be used for spring and/or Easter. The dart tournament has started and it is exciting for those who are participating and also for those who are watching. The place is like a busy bee hive, there is so much going on; not only do we have guests, but we make our own fun. Many afternoons after lunch there is a table of people playing dominoes, more are playing cards, a jigsaw puzzle is there for anyone who feels like putting in a piece, the treadmill is going, and people are throwing darts. Also a good size group played Bingo one day recently. And don’t forget our council meetings, where the activities are planned. One last thing, Mary White is back after spending some time in Florida. She's giving those hugs again; come on in and get yours. Till the next time. Sign-Up Dates For Crop, Disaster Programs PENNDOT Promotion Dunmore – PENNDOT District 4-0 has announced a promotion at its District 4-0 Susquehanna County Maintenance facility.
Blair K. Caterson Blair K. Caterson of Fairdale, Susquehanna County was recently promoted to Transportation Equipment Operator B. Caterson is part of a PENNDOT crew that is responsible for overall road maintenance in Susquehanna County. Prior to his hire at PENNDOT, Caterson was employed by Montrose Auto Parts. His wife, Pam also works for PENNDOT. Together they have two children: Lee, who is 15 and Erin, who is 11. In his free time Caterson enjoys camping in his RV and working on farm tractors and cars. He also enjoys listening to music. April Is Environmental Awareness Month The County Commissioners proclaimed April "Environmental Awareness Month" in Susquehanna County during their regular public meeting, April 9. Joining them were members of various county agencies as well as others involved in environmental projects within the county. "The Susquehanna County Conservation District commends the SEEC Committee (Susquehanna Education in Ecology and Conservation) for spearheading the dedication of April as Environmental Awareness Month," said Lillian Theophanis, District Manager. "As a subcommittee of the Susquehanna County Rural Development Committee, SEEC has been instrumental in bringing environmental and natural resource conservation education to our schools and community at large. The Conservation District, a member of SEEC, provides funding, education and technical assistance to the farmers, contractors, forest managers, quarries and watershed developers of Susquehanna County," she concluded.
Nancy Wottrich, SEEC Committee, explained a new, innovative environmental education program being run in three county schools this year, with plans to make it available to all the schools in the county. "The E3 (Earth, Ecology and Environment) Program is a comprehensive fourth grade environmental education program designed to assist teachers in meeting the newly mandated Pennsylvania standards for environment and ecology," she said. "The program introduces students basic ecological concepts through hands-on activities in the classroom and field experiences at Salt Spring State Park." Nancy added that E3 is a program of the Friends of Salt Springs Park and is supported by the Friends, County Conservation District, DCNR Bureau of Parks and the SEEC Committee. Reading from the "Environmental Awareness Month" proclamation, Commissioner Gary Marcho reaffirmed the county’s support of environmental programs and education: "Whereas the County Commissioners wish to support the efforts of the community to develop a deeper understanding of the natural environment upon which our lives and welfare depend; Now therefore, we, the Commissioners of Susquehanna County, in acknowledgment of our responsibility to place a sound natural resource base in the hands of our children, do proclaim the month of April of each year to be designated as Environmental Awareness Month." Pictured (l-r) are: back row – Commissioner Lee Smith, Sioux Petrow - SEEC member, Jodi Anderson - Recycling Center, Mike Villanella - Conservation District, Derek Smith - West Nile Virus, Sue Chance - SEEC Chairperson, Toby Anderson - Salt Springs Park; front row – Lillian Theophanis - Conservation District Manager, Kathy Shelly - Farm Bureau, Commissioner Gary Marcho, Commissioner Cal Dean, Nancy Wottrich - SEEC member. Not pictured: Stephen Bruno, Earth Day On Wheels. Joan
Hurley, RN Retires At BKH After a lifelong career of nursing, one of Barnes-Kasson Hospital’s most valued nurses, Mrs. Joan Hurley – after 36 years at Barnes-Kasson – on February 28, 2003, retired as head of the nursing staff. Mrs. Hurley began working at B-K in January of 1967. Prior to that she was employed by the old Simon Barnes Hospital on Willow Avenue, at the (now) Binghamton General Hospital, United Health Services, New Jersey Perth Amboy Hospital, and Mercy Hospital, Scranton.
Being a "jack-of-all-trades," she started as a medical staff nurse, worked in maternity/nursing area, helped out in the emergency room and "was on call" to help in the operating room, when needed. Joan recalls the area finance campaign, in 1963 and 1964 toward the fulfillment of the (now) proud B-K Hospital which opened in October, 1965. Joan was "introduced" to BKH by a longtime friend and mentor, Mary Pat (Birdsall) Maloney (they worked together at the old Barnes Hospital). Joan became medical-surgical supervisor early in the 1970’s, when Ms. Maloney chose to manage the Skilled Nursing Facility, which opened in 1970. Mrs. Hurley completed a course early in 1979 for certification in the medical records department as a Registered Health Information Technician. She was involved in Quality Assurance studies, including the commission for medical insurance coverage. After being a "fill-in" for director of nurses, she became Director of Nurses in February, 1984. well remembers the important advances of the hospital. The opening of the Intensive Coronary Care Unit in May, 1974. The Health Centers, Home Health Services, the new Maternity/Nursing department, the new Physical Therapy departments and Cardiac Rehabilitation, plus many other additions to the hospital. (Langan) Hurley is a graduate of Laurel Hill Academy, Class of 1949; the Scranton Mercy Hospital, 1952. She was married to James Hurley, in 1953, widowed by his untimely death in March, 1979. They had six children: Peggy (Kevin) Guyette, a teacher in the Binghamton schools; twin sons, James and John, born prematurely, died soon after birth; Kitsy (Bob) Rice, RN in Florida; Joan Marie, teacher, Baltimore, MD; James and wife, Deanne, teachers in Cleveland, Ohio; and eight grandchildren. "One of my proudest achievements," Mrs. Hurley remarked, "as for my family, I feel very thankful and fortunate that I was able to work at a profession I love, in my hometown, to help them with their education." Mrs. Hurley, dedicated to the nursing and healing profession, elaborates on the "birth" of the new Barnes-Kasson Hospital. She recalls, "Our BKH exists through the hard work and foresight of the old Barnes Hospital’s Board of Directors (Gerald Casey, Bob Langford, Mike Janicelli, to name a few). Dr. Ray Davis and Dr. John Zavoy welcomed new doctors to our hospital, Dr. Will Noyes, Dr. Bob Shelly, Dr. James McClure did the same in the 1950’s and 1960’s. Beginning in 1972, we had the great opportunity of acquiring many Health Service Corporation physicians. "The hospital’s growth was confirmed through the years with the efforts of many Board of Trustee members, and for the past 20 years, Sara Iveson, as executive director, and our great physicians and all of the past and present BKH employees. "I thank God every day for my nice family, special friends, good health and the knowledge I’ve gained in health care through the opportunity to work for so many years at Barnes-Kasson Hospital. As the saying goes, ‘There comes a time...!’ "Retirement plans are unsure at this time, but I plan to do things I could not do when I was employed. Travel is not a priority for I have been to many places, including Ireland and Spain. I’m hoping to become a computer expert and write a book (good idea, Joan). The book will be titled ‘My 50 Years Plus In The Nursing Profession.’" (Note: Dear Joan, I have known you and your family for many, many years. It is a pleasure to make known what you have accomplished over the years. No doubt, with your vast knowledge of nursing, your book will be on the "best sellers list" in no time. So it is with heartfelt feelings that you stay healthy and enjoy your "retirement(?)") It usually stands three feet tall. It doesn’t complain about being in the freezing rain or scorching sun, and doesn’t talk, but it does help you communicate with the world. It can add beauty to your home, but in many instances is taken for granted and suffers neglect. What is it? It’s your mailbox. When was the last time you took a good look at your mailbox? Could it use a little sprucing up? As we look toward Spring, we’ll be thinking about home improvements. Don’t neglect that mailbox, that is usually the first vestige of your home ownership that others see. For some local residents, the coming of Spring will prompt the cleaning and painting of a fairly new mailbox. For others, it might encourage the total replacement of a trusty old mailbox that, after 30 years of service, is on its "last legs." Regardless of the degree of attention you might wish to give your mailbox, the postal service offers a few tips. Make sure it can protect your mail from the weather, is neat in appearance, is conveniently located, and can be safely opened and closed by you and your letter carrier.
Illustrations By Paul Kester Give careful consideration before placing flowering plants around your mailbox, because they may attract bees and other insects, creating a potential safety hazard for both the letter carrier and the homeowner. In addition, make sure your number is clearly displayed. After you’ve given your mailbox that extra little bit of attention, remember to keep your access clear from leaves, garbage cans, or debris so your mail will be delivered without delay and in a safe and efficient manner. Thanks for keeping your mailbox safe and functional. Local Lions Club To Host Convention The Lions Clubs of Pennsylvania District 14-H, serving the counties of Wyoming, Susquehanna, Wayne and Lackawanna will be holding their annual convention, April 26-27 at the Radisson Lackawanna Station, Scranton, PA. The convention is held yearly to elect a District Governor and Vice Governor, to be the chief executive officers, as well as to formulate business and action plans for the coming year. This year’s festivities will be presided over by the current District Governor, Lion John E. D. "Jack" McGoldrick, of the Hallstead–Great Bend Club. There will be many local dignitaries, representing the four counties, of Northeastern PA as well as state and international guests. The keynote speaker this year will be 2nd International Vice President Clement F. Kusiak, from the Baltimore Brooklyn Lions Club, of Linthicum, Maryland. International Vice President Kusiak has been in Lionism for the past 37 years, a member of the Baltimore Brooklyn Lions Club since 1966. Vice President Kusiak has held many positions in his local club and his District in Maryland, as well as his national and international undertakings. His local accomplishments include club president, cabinet treasurer, council treasurer, and district governor. State duties included District Governors-elect School. On the national side, he was the program chairman for the Lions Eye Health Program, and an advisor to its national roll out. He was also a member of the USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum. In recognition of his service to the association, Vice President Kusiak has received numerous awards, four International President’s Leadership Awards, six International President’s Awards, and the Ambassador of Good Will Award, the highest honor bestowed upon association members. He is also a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow. An engineer by profession, Vice President Kusiak has served on numerous committees, such as the Atlantic Region’s North American Membership Program, the Development Task Force and the Heritage Committee of Baltimore, Maryland. Vice President Kusiak will be accompanied to our area by his wife, Jeanne, also a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow. They have two sons, and two grandchildren. Susky Fire Dept. 150 Club Awards Following are the March, 2003 Susquehanna Fire Dept. 150 Club Awards winners listed as $5.00, $10.00, $25.00 respectively. March 1: Mason Evans, Richard Ulrich, Phil Stein. March 8: Gladys Troup, Laurie Frye, Byron White. March 15: Jeff Krall, Fred Williams, Clyde Harvey. March 22: Sandy Babcock, Chris Kane, Gus Fabrizi. March 29: Lisa Saam, Marion Glover, Nancy Glasgow. Spring is near – not here, but near. In springtime a young (or older) man’s fancy may turn to mulch; for his trees, that is. Before you start, learn the proper way to apply mulch so that it is beneficial, not harmful, to your valuable trees. A 2 – 3" layer of light-textured organic material that does not mat or pack controls unwanted annual weed growth, slows the loss of moisture, keeps soil temperatures cool around roots, and prevents soil erosion. It is important to realize that the mulch should be kept away from the trunks and stems of plants to prevent bark decay and loss. This problem is aggravated by the fact that many highly visible landscape plantings in public areas are maintained by commercial firms who consistently pile excessive layers of mulch against the trunks of trees. The public assumes that this is the proper way. Proper mulching should follow these simple rules. Use a material that will not compress and smother the soil. Only apply two to three inches over the root zone. NEVER allow any mulch to contact the plant stem. Mulch should not be piled around a tree’s trunk like a teepee. It should be raked away, making a well around the tree to allow maximum moisture retention. Rain can then soak into the ground instead of running off. Tree trunks have more damage done to them by weed wackers than any other mechanical device. Mulch is one way to keep your weed wacker person away from them. Making sure the mulch is not against the trunk will protect the trees, speed up mowing and show an improved, neater appearance to your property. The Garden Club of Montrose hopes these tips will keep your trees healthy and beautiful.
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