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Issue Home June 24, 2003 Site Home

HEADLINES:
4-H News
ASSETS Graduates Begin Adventure
Hop Bottom Dog Trials A Hit!
EMTC Turns Over A New Leaf!
Joseph P. Zuber, Jr. Gets Recognized
Lenoxville Senior Center Update
PARSE #15 Meets
Picnic Draws Seniors And Many Smiles
Program Celebrates Volunteers
Stiffer Penalties In PA Work Zone
SCDED Recognizes Young Entrepreneurs

4-H News

Sizzlin' Steaks

The Sizzlin’ Steaks 4-H Club recently met at Mr. and Mrs. Lewis’ home. President Aaron Phillips opened the meeting and members said club pledges. Christina Zick read the secretary’s report and took roll call.

Jackets were presented to Aaron and Jackie Phillips. Aaron is going to look into seats at the Red Barons games. Mrs. Mitchell and Mrs. Phillips said that the flowers are doing well.

Club members went on a nature walk for signs of spring and they saw a beaver hauling a leafy tree. Refreshments were served. The next meeting is June 25, 7 p.m. at the Phillips’s home.

D.E.S. Dairy Club

The D.E.S. 4-H Club recently held two meetings, one at the Elk Lake Fire Hall and the other at the Kiefer’s home. At the earlier meeting, Nick Pease called the meeting to order and Nick Mattocks and Ryan Depew led the pledges. Alyssa Sprout read the minutes from the last meeting and Treasurer Amanda Miner gave her report. Members discussed their participation in the March of Dimes Walk-A-Thon. Andy Miner, Steven Rezykowski and Jenna Sprout did their demonstrations. Members discussed writing letters to the troops, flower beds at the Harford Fair and the club day camp at Clark’s farm.

At the most recent meeting after pledges were said, members discussed the Harford Fair cleanup and flower beds. Nick Pease, Allison Kiefer and Kenny Kiefer did their demonstrations. They discussed a club picnic. Club Leader, Sue Pease handed out record books. The next meeting will be at the Clark Farm.

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ASSETS Graduates Begin Adventure

Montrose – The TREHAB ASSETS Program graduated its second largest class – 29 enthusiastic entrepreneurs – during a ceremony held at The Tea Room of the Montrose Bible Conference in May. Some 52 graduates, guests, and program trainers attended the evening dinner and graduation.

Dennis Phelps, TREHAB’s Executive Director, welcomed and congratulated the graduates, who have high hopes that their planned small businesses will become varied additions to the Susquehanna/Wyoming County area. They range widely, from a pet groomer to a catering service to home repairs/improvement. Phelps also thanked those members of the community who served as trainers and mentors to this large class of new entrepreneurs.

The TREHAB ASSETS Program (A Service for Self-Employment Training Support) is a training, mentoring and technical support program for entrepreneurs in the process of beginning or expanding a small business. ASSETS provides participants with six-week sessions held in Susquehanna, Bradford, Sullivan and Wyoming Counties, offering the program both in fall and spring.

The keynote speaker for the event was James Etta Reed, Division Chief of the PA Department of Community & Economic Development. She spoke about pursuing your dreams and the steps needed to accomplish them, pointing to examples of successful entrepreneurs who reached their dreams, such as KFC's Colonel Sanders.

Mary Anne Waddington, ASSETS Program Director, introduced the graduates and presented each with a certificate of completion of the program.

Also on hand to offer their congratulations to the graduates were: TREHAB Board of Directors President Henry Pease, Susquehanna County Commissioners Cal Dean and Lee Smith, Wyoming County Commissioner Judy Meade, Karen McBride from rural housing, as well as attending trainers and mentors.

Anyone interested in learning more about the ASSETS-TREHAB program should contact Mary Anne Waddington at 278-5228, or 1-800-982-4045, ext. 5228.

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Hop Bottom Dog Trials A Hit!

The Annual Dog Trials are always a treat for anyone who decides to spend a day around Father's Day Weekend at "Sheepy Hollow" in Hop Bottom. At this event that celebrated its 22nd year on the farm owned by Dick Williams and his wife Cheryl Jagger Williams, the judges had quite a job making their decisions. In a field that can take as long as four to five years for dogs to mature out of the novice category, the competition is swift and demanding for both the dogs and the handlers.

Pictured (l-r) are: J. P. LaLonde, Judge of Novice Events; Champion Andy; Tom Wilson, Open Class Judge.

This year, Andy, a classic stock dog, border collie, owned by Cheryl Jagger Williams, took Reserve Champion. This dog is used to ranking 6th in the United States.

J. P. LaLonde, who judged the Novice Class shared his thoughts on the competition with this reporter. LaLonde commented that there were some excellent young dogs competing this year at this very respected event. Two year old "Juno" owned by Dawn Boyce of Carnesville, GA, was the champ in the Novice Class. LaLonde shared the canine came out running in the Ranch Class and "showed a lot of promise". Nancy Obernier, Coatesville, PA was the most promising handler. Of Obernier he said, "Her style was professional about her work."

The Judge of Novices shared that handlers and dogs need the early classes for experience. They train at home and then go to the dog trials. Handlers learn how to work on new turf and the "young bloods" are getting their experience. The competitions run from late Spring to as late as mid-October. LaLonde pointed out, "This is one of the top quality trials in the country – for attention to handlers, dogs and judges. " There is award money paid up to 5th place and ribbons up to 10th. LaLonde noted, "The competitors would come whether or not there is money." On Thursday there were 110 dogs on the field and on Friday 115 dogs ran. He projected that there are about 88 dogs active in the "Open" Classes. In conclusion he shared, "Novices truly are in it for the sport. They so much want to learn."

Tom Wilson, who judged the open classes on Saturday and Sunday, shared that judges have similar guidelines. "Whether it is the handler or dog's mistake, it is a higher point, then if it is the sheep." I questioned him closely regarding the sheep, getting a better insight into the technique and finesse required to do a good job judging.

It was a pleasure to hear Wilson speak, with his authentic brogue about the antics and attitudes of the sheep. The Senior Judge commented, "The sheep may be hungry or lazy, maybe not want to be with their 'mates'." He continued with, "It could be the time of the day. In the heat of the day they might want to 'shade up' or may be too frisky in the morning. Flies could be bothering their ears and that could make them squirrelly." He said he was more critical of a good dog with good sheep and believe it or not, there could be a personality conflict between the dog and the sheep.

This was an interesting subject and the judges and all who are involved with this type of competition are people who are worth knowing. The great thing about this trial though is that it is a nationally recognized event worthy of international appraisal and it happens right here in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania.

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EMTC Turns Over A New Leaf!

What does a growing community theater company have to do with a giant, man-eating plant? Everything, when their summer musical is Little Shop of Horrors -- the bizarre classic by Menken and Ashman, which tells the story of Skid Row boy, Skid Row girl, Skid Row evil dentist . . . and one wish-granting, carnivorous houseplant.

Chiffon, Crystal and Ronnette add a touch of retro tunefulness to this legendary, macabre comedy.

Every summer, the biggest event in the Endless Mountains Theatre Company season is a larger-than-life, unforgettable musical. From the heartwarming vignettes of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown (2000) to the madcap Sondheim masterpiece A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (2001) to the Broadway-gets-hip Sweet Charity (2002), EMTC has kept audiences coming back for more. And this year, they're going to get more: an unprecedented 5 performances of the summer musical! That's right -- Little Shop of Horrors will run over two weekends in July, with performances July 11, 12, 18, and 19 at 7:30 p.m., plus a Sunday matinee at 4:00 p.m. on July 13. All performances are at Blue Ridge High School in New Milford.

For more information on Little Shop of Horrors or EMTC's other upcoming productions (Ed Camp Final Performance, Figments, Tony n' Tina's Wedding, The Waffle Truth), call 570-434-2422 or visit www.4emtc.org.

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Joseph P. Zuber, Jr. Gets Recognized

Joseph P. Zuber, Jr., First Vice President – Investments, Senior Investment Management Specialist has earned the Financial Planning Specialist (FPS) designation for Smith Barney, the firm’s Binghamton, NY branch office announced. This prestigious designation is awarded to those financial consultants who successfully complete the firm’s personal financial planning training program.

Mr. Zuber has been in the financial services industry for ten years. A graduate of Binghamton University, he resides in Montrose, PA with his wife, Mary, and two sons.

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Lenoxville Senior Center Update

Almost summer, but you would never know it by the weather; it’s more like April than early June. Nevertheless, attendance is up. Last week Olive and Edward Corack and Anna Paschuk were with us again and we welcomed visitors Gary and Eleanor Stanford. She is Dorothy Gates’ sister. It was nice having them visit.

On the sad side, our good friend Mariano Carpenetti has passed away and his brother, Angelo is further saddened by the loss of his twin sister. Council President, Edna Lopatofsky is recovering from surgery. Thank you to Mary Allen for conducting our noontime rituals while Edna is recuperating.

At council meeting we decided to purchase an 80-cup coffee urn. We were reminded that the Farmers Market Vouchers would be available, at this center, on June 19, from 1 to 4 p.m. Susquehanna County seniors who are 60 or above and meet the financial criteria are eligible.

On June 26, the Dairy Princess, Shana Mack and her ambassadors will visit us. Mary Allen introduced Joe DeGroat, a new member, and Ruth Kennedy and Charles Turner are back after an absence. Birthdays this month are Miriam McConnell, Tony and Mary Blodnikar, Jackie White and Dorothy Wallace.

Till next time, be happy and God bless!

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PARSE #15 Meets

The Pennsylvania Association of Retired State Employees, Endless Mountains Chapter 15, met at the Towanda Gun Club on June 10. President Alton Arnold welcomed members and guests. Mrs. Nancy Spencer, Vice President from Bradford County, introduced the speaker, Duane Campbell, gardener and writer. Mr. Campbell is a published writer and his articles appear regularly. Mr. Campbell gave a very interesting, entertaining and informative talk on gardening in containers. He told of the different plants that can be grown in containers and consequences of the amount of shade or sun in the spot you plan to place them. He also suggested to use several sizes and shapes of planters in a group to make the display more interesting. Mr. Campbell answered questions for the group and also gave each who wanted them "toes" (or bulbs) to start a purple shamrock. This is a very interesting plant, as it will appear to have no life and then spring up with beautiful green and purple leaves.

President Alton Arnold called on vice presidents from each county for remarks. The all welcomed new members and stressed the importance that we should all invite new retirees to join our chapter and encourage members to renew their membership.

Regional Vice President, Mrs. Clara Smith, reported on changes at the state PARSE office and informed members that PARSE now has a website which members can use to get information on benefits. Mrs. Smith reported that the annual PARSE meeting will be held in Camp Hill on October 22, and the number of delegates a chapter can send depends on its membership. She encouraged new retirees to join a chapter.

President Alton Arnold stated that the next meeting will be a picnic, to be held at the Green Gables in New Milford, Tuesday, July 8, at 12 noon. Anyone wishing further information and/or reservations should contact Susquehanna County Vice President John Benio, at (570) 278–2380.

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Picnic Draws Seniors And Many Smiles

Senior citizens from the Counties of Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Tioga gathered at Alparon Park in Troy, PA on June 12 under cloudy skies for the 28th annual Senior Citizens Picnic. Despite rainy weather, a crowd of about 1,000 showed up to enjoy the entertainment of "Old-Time Music," a singing and fiddling duo, an antique automobile show and parade, 52 health and informational exhibitors, the EMTA mini-bus, and bingo.

17 antique automobile owners braved the wet conditions to display their immaculate cars, appreciated by many in the crowd who once owned, drove, or rode in these unique vehicles. Automobile owners from all four counties and Elmira, NY drove antique automobiles representing decades from 1910 through the 1970’s. Gordon Martin, of Millerton, PA pointed to his 1918 Model T Ford, an AACA National First Prize Winner, and exclaimed: "This is the first time she’s ever gotten wet!" Mr. Martin also brought his sharp-looking 1910 Model T Ford, by trailer to display in the show.

Leonard Gee, of Covington, PA won a "Best of Show" award for his beautiful 1931 Model A Ford Coupe, and Bud and Elaine Kaiser of Thompson, PA, with a 1965 Corsa Corvair, won the "Furthest Distance Traveled" award, having driven 87 miles to the show. Representatives and friends of the Area Agency On Aging Advisory Council served as judges for the car show awards.

Troy area veterans groups gave a stunning presentation of colors as the picnic crowd paused to honor our troops and veterans. A special blessing was given by Marlene Enlow of Sayre, PA. Dignitaries introduced included many of the county commissioners from the four county area.

In addition to help from staff members of the Area Agency On Aging, many youth and community groups contributed their time and talents to make the Senior Citizens’ Picnic possible.

The B/S/S/T Area Agency On Aging welcomes calls for information about its many programs which help older citizens and their families at 1-800-982-4346. The agency is funded in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and the Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Tioga County Commissioners.

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Program Celebrates Volunteers

On May 21, at the Fire Hall in Troy, PA, 55 volunteers of the Foster Grandparent Program were honored with a recognition banquet attended by state and local dignitaries.

Foster Grandparents volunteer their time working with exceptional needs children at various day care, home, and school locations throughout Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Tioga Counties. They provide emotional support, tutoring, and guidance to children who may not have a grandparent in their lives, or one living nearby.

The program has received overwhelmingly positive response from school administrators, teachers, parents, and, most importantly, from the children whose lives Foster Grandparents touch. These children have shown improvement in their self-esteem, social skills, and school work.

Foster Grandparents in the four county area have been quoted to say that the program gives them a reason to get up in the morning and gives them opportunities to share their love of children and their enthusiasm for the potential of young people.

Foster Grandparents are individuals age 60 or older who meet certain income guidelines. Deductions of medical expenses are counted when calculating their income eligibility. They receive a tax-free stipend for their time, usually 15 or more hours per week.

Currently, there is a need for more Foster Grandmothers and Grandfathers in Susquehanna County. Foster Grandfathers are especially sought for the Gibson, Harford, and Montrose areas. Orientation classes for new Foster Grandparents will be held in July.

Contact Bonnie Austin, Foster Grandparent Director at 1-800-982-4346 or (570) 268-1251 for information on becoming a Foster Grandparent.

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Stiffer Penalties In PA Work Zone

Changes in Work Zone Law take effect June 23

Luzerne County – Tougher work zone laws will cost speeding drivers their license. Other changes in the law give courts the option of imposing an additional five-year prison sentence on anyone convicted of homicide by vehicle in a work zone.

The changes, which took effect June 23, were the focus of a PENNDOT program held recently. "Starting Monday, June 23, we have an important message for motorists who refuse to observe work zone laws…if you speed, tailgate or drive aggressively in a work zone, you will be caught and, if found guilty of speeding 11 miles per hour or more, you’re going to lose your driver’s license," said PENNDOT Secretary Allen D. Biehler. "My thanks to the members of the General Assembly for creating tougher laws aimed at protecting the lives of highway workers."

Not all changes in the Work Zone law are aimed at drivers. One provision mandates that PENNDOT and other contractors post Speed Awareness Monitors in work zones on interstates and the PA Turnpike for projects exceeding a cost of $300,000 so that drivers can be aware of their speed.

The purpose of the changes in Pennsylvania’s Work Zone Law is to improve safety, not only for highway construction workers, but for drivers as well.

"I urge all motorists to slow down and pay attention each and every time they are in a work zone," Secretary Biehler stated. "The lives of highway workers and other motorists depend on all of us to make good driving decisions."

Copies of the new Work Zone Law can be obtained by calling PENNDOT at 570-963-3502 or through e-mail at www.neparoads.com.

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SCDED Recognizes Young Entrepreneurs

The Susquehanna County Department of Economic Development is pleased to recognize young entrepreneurs Ted Brunelle, Alex Brunelle, Alan Oakley, and Braddley Swetter with the department’s Young Entrepreneur award. Board Chairman Jack Ord presented the awards to the young men at a Business Roundtable sponsored by the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission and the Susquehanna County Department of Economic Development. Mr. Ord congratulated the young men on their entrepreneurial spirit and their interest in developing businesses in Susquehanna County.

The Susquehanna County Department of Economic Development recently honored four county youths for their entrepreneurial spirit. Pictured (l-r) are: seated – Young Entrepreneur Alex Brunelle, Dr. Sonji Lee, Young Entrepreneur Ted Brunelle; standing – Justin Taylor, Martha Brunelle, Kim Barnes, and Kevin Abrams. Also receiving recognition as Young Entrepreneurs were Alan Oakley and Braddley Swetter.

Theodore (Ted) Brunelle specializes in computer network design, high speed, fault tolerant computer clusters and database construction, artificial intelligence, expert systems, and "learning computers." He holds numerous patents, and has many pending, in fields including holography and 3-D volumetric displays, data compression and encryption, animation, special effects, artificial intelligence and expert systems, and equipment design. At present, Mr. Brunelle is heavily involved with both the business and technical aspects of ThePerfectLawyer.com, a web-based business. In addition, Ted holds an active position as CEO of Endless Hosting – an Internet service and hosting provider specializing in clientele needs requiring high reliability, bandwidth, and server requirements. He is also CEO of EB DATA Systems (Epidemiological and Biological Detection And Threat Analysis Systems) – a company that is developing a bioterrorism time/space cluster syndrome surveillance system for the United States government that is capable of detecting and alerting health officials of a biological or epidemiological event well in advance of all current methods in place.

Alex Brunelle developed AhaJokes.com into a popular clean joke World Wide Web site, receiving over 250,000,000 hits per year. His primary focus is the study of finance and accounting, and he recently received his Bachelor's degree in Accounting from Keystone College, graduating Summa Cum Laude along with other honors. Alex is the President of ThePerfectLawyer.com, an on-line artificial intelligence system that allows a visitor to quickly and easily find the perfect lawyer for his/her needs just by answering a few simple questions. Alex, and his brother, Ted, plan to launch ThePerfectLawyer.com nationally within the next three months, serving millions of consumers across the country. In May, 2003, Alex, competing against other college and University entrants, won the Great Valley Technology Alliance Business Plan Competition for his business plan for ThePerfectLawyer.com.

Alan Oakley is a member of Keystone College’s class of 2003. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Human Resource Management. Alan also holds an Associates Degree in Business Administration from Keystone College and has studied information technology and computer programming. Alan plans to pursue a master’s degree in health care administration. A 1999 graduate of Mountain View High School, Alan enjoys Susquehanna County’s many opportunities to pursue outdoor sports. He is also interested in woodworking, and has developed a business plan for kiln-drying wood and selling the resulting, high quality hardwood lumber both to the retail market and to local lumber yards at a competitive price.

Braddley Swetter is a senior at Keystone College, majoring in Environmental Resource Management. He is also president of the Keystone Student Senate. Braddley plans to obtain a master’s degree in engineering. He is currently interning at the Susquehanna Conservation District and assisting his parents in operating Swetland Game Farm in Clifford Twp. Braddley also plans to construct and open a 20-unit self-storage facility in Clifford Twp. by the end of the year. He explains that the self-storage business is one with a low-input investment and a quick turn around. He plans to expand into other locations in the county in the coming years.

The Susquehanna County Department of Economic Development welcomes inquiries from those interested in starting their own business. Contact the department at (570) 278-4600, ext. 558, or visit Susquehanna County’s official website www.susquehanna.pa.us.

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