COUNTY LIVING


County Living
Sports
Schools
Church Announcements
Classifieds
Dated Events
Military News
Columnists
Editorials/Opinions
Obituaries
Archives
Subscribe to the Transcript

Watch This space for information on upcoming events in Susquehanna County.

Please visit our kindsponsors!

Issue Home August 12, 2003 Site Home

HEADLINES:
Girl Scouts To Honor Rep. Sandra Major
Brinton Cresse Elected SAL Vice Commander (Contributed)
Blueberry Fesitval Is Record-Breaking
Leet Agency Receives Top Sales Awards
NTRPDC Awards Eight Local Grants
People's National Bank Builds Endowment
SCHS Celebrates 50th Class Reunion
Rob's Market Donates To Relay for Life
Calcium Counts!
Take Me Home!
Chamber Reorganizes
FSA Nominations Now Underway
Senator Madigan Visits Susquehanna County
Blue Ridge Senior Center Update
United Way Appoints New Board Members
4-H News
Terry Irwin Gets Poem Published

Girl Scouts To Honor Rep. Sandra Major

Girl Scouts, Scranton Pocono Council will hold its seventh annual Women of Distinction Dinner on Sunday, September 7 beginning at 5:15 p.m. The event is being held at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel in Scranton.

Four women whose lives "both personally and professionally" serve as role models for the Girl Scout ideals of character, conduct, service and leadership will each be presented with the Woman of Distinction Award.

Rep. Sandra J. Major, Montrose, is joined by Jane J. Martin, Candace McGreevy and Barbara Yeaman as recipients of the 2003 Women of Distinction award. Additionally, Terry Nichols Wise will receive the Woman of Distinction in Girl Scouting Award in recognition of her committed service to Girl Scouting locally.

Rep. Sandra Major, one of this year’s recipients of the Girl Scouts, Scranton Pocono Council’s Women of Distinction Award.

Each year, the Woman of Distinction honor is bestowed on area women who embody the values essential to Girl Scouting. Recipients are women who are or have been Girl Scouts and who reside in, or are natives of, the Council’s geographic service area. In their work at home, in the community and/or in their careers, these women make significant contributions to the community at large.

Rep. Major is serving her fifth term in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Her commitment to public service is well known by her constituents of the 111th district that includes parts of Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties. She serves on the Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Game and Fisheries, Local Government, Professional Licensure and Policy and Ethics Committees. She was recently appointed to the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency Board of Directors. In spite of her busy schedule, Rep. Major finds time to serve on the TREHAB Center Board of Directors and the President’s Advisory Council for Keystone College. She is an active member of the Montrose Business and Professional Women’s Club, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, the Susquehanna Council of Republican Women, the National Council of Republican Women and the National Rifle Association.

A proud Girl Scout alumna, Rep. Major believes the Girl Scout Movement continues to "teach today’s young girls to be responsible and self confident young women and the leaders of tomorrow."

For more information on the 2003 Women of Distinction Dinner or to make reservations, call Girl Scouts, Scranton Pocono Council at (570) 344-1224 or toll-free at 877-582-2100.

Back to Top

Brinton Cresse Elected SAL Vice Commander (Contributed)

On July 18, 19 and 20, the American Legion, Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion, for the State of Pennsylvania held their annual state convention in Monroeville, PA.

Attended by hundreds of Legionnaires, Auxiliary and Sons, spread throughout six hotels, each group met for a final time to complete the year’s business and elect new officers for the coming year, 2003–2004.

Of local interest, Squadron 86, Sons of the American Legion members Brinton Cresse, Squadron Adjutant and Dennis Fiske, Squadron 86 Second Vice Commander were both in attendance as voting delegates from their Squadron.

As the Saturday afternoon session for the Sons resumed, caucuses for Section Vice Commanders began. Eastern, Central and Western sections were up for election.

Following the caucuses, election results were announced. Brinton Cresse, Squadron 86 member has been elected as Central Section Vice Commander for the Detachment of Pennsylvania.

Brinton Cresse, Central Section Vice Commander for the Detachment of Pennsylvania Sons of the American Legion.

Brinton has been a member of Squadron 86 for 13 years. Squadron Commander – two years, Adjutant – 12 years, District 15 Commander – two years, Aide to the Central Vice commander – one year, Detachment Historian – one year.

During Brit’s 13 years with Squadron 86, he has helped with the reorganization of the Squadron and assisted in increasing membership of the Squadron; assisted with the reorganization of Post 86’s Honor Guard, of which he is also a member; helped with numerous community events and fundraising events for the American Legion, Sons and Auxiliary charities for Post 86; attended several state and national Sons of the American Legion conventions.

On the 15th District level, Brit helped bring together the 15th District Sons of the American Legion as a whole, which includes 13 squadrons and over 1,000 squadron members.

As Central Section Vice Commander, Brit will be responsible for squadrons covering the entire central section of the state, from Susquehanna, south to the New Jersey border, above Philadelphia across to the Maryland border, north through Harrisburg and up to the New York border. All 13,000 members strong and all supporting our veterans, the American Legion and their programs.

(Note: Both Cresse and Fiske are members of the Sons of the Legion, of Strider-Teskey Post 86, American Legion.)

Back to Top

Blueberry Fesitval Is Record-Breaking

On Friday and Saturday, August 1 and 2, the 2003 Blueberry Festival was held on the Village Green in Montrose. Despite Friday's drizzle, quite a crowd turned out to enjoy blueberry festivities under tents and inside the library. Saturday's crowd was record-breaking! "The Festival is held the first Friday and Saturday in August, rain or shine," said Susan Stone, Administrator/ Librarian of the Susquehanna County Historical Society & Free Library Association. "We are so fortunate to have great supporters who come no matter what!"

Rain didn't stop eager Festival attendees!

The Festival gets bigger and better every year, thanks to the participation of community-minded helpers, both organizations and individuals. Hundreds of volunteers staff the many booths, and local businesses donate essentials from ice cream to advertising.

The Montrose Women's Club Muffin table, which is stocked by donations of hundreds of home-baked muffins, held the ever-popular Blueberry Muffin Contest. Judges Marie King, Father Jim Nash, and Commissioner Lee Smith tasted a wide range of muffins. First prize went to Brenda Fisher's muffins, second to Debra Millard, and third to Johanna Reed. The winning muffins went at a higher price and quickly sold out!

Festival visitors admired the Cactus Basket quilt, handstitched by friends of the library. Every year a different quilt is made to be raffled off at the Festival. Beverly Knopick of Montrose won this year's quilt.

Three generations of Blueberry Festival women! Grandmother Harriet Kielceski (winner of the first Blueberry Muffin contest), mother Ann Reed (chair of the commemoratives booth), and daugher Johanna Reed (third place winner of this year's muffin contest).

Other raffles generated excitement as well. The beautiful Victorian Cottage dollhouse handcrafted by Tom Simpson went to Kaylee Parker of Montrose. Doris Morrison of Harford won the afghan crocheted by Helen Pacanowski. The "For the Woman In Your Life" tray, created by Terri LaRue, was won by Gayle O'Brien of Brooklyn. Dozens of winners at the Basket Raffle went home with lovely and original baskets. Congratulations to all!

The Silent Auction featured many unique items donated by members of the community, from works by local artists to goods and services from county businesses. Excitement ran high in the last few minutes before the auction closed, as eager bidders competed to raise the prices.

While parents bought Blueberry Festival pottery and clothing, admired the handcrafts, and browsed for books at the used book and record sale, children played games on the Green and had their faces painted. Race-against-time games were popular, including an obstacle course, basketball, and jump-rope. The dunking booth was staffed by volunteers, and children lined up for the chance to make a splash! Food and beverages were available all day, including snacks and ice cream. Volunteers picked almost 1000 pounds of fresh blueberries which were snapped up by berry lovers. Festival mascot Newberry the Blueberry made many appearances, shaking hands and posing for pictures. Saturday's White Elephant Sale filled the middle of the green with people finding treasures that other not longer wanted.

On Friday, String Band Central played under the seating tent, as did the Tri-County Handbell Choir and Mary Kay Osburn with the Montrose Presbyterian Singers. Esther Welden demonstrated wool spinning, and Eileen Patch read a Civil War soldier's letters to his mother. On Saturday, Noelani Jenkins' Hawaiian and Polynesian Dancers wowed the crowd, who were invited to participate in the traditional poi dance. John Swavola's Tae Kwan Do students then demonstrated their skills, followed by the massed barbershop singing of "Young Men in Harmony." The afternoon's entertainment peaked with the 10th Annual Massed Band Concert, introducing a new "Blueberry Festival March" composed and conducted by Dean Houck. Strolling character entertainer Manny Tikitz also roamed the Green on Saturday, confusing some and delighting others with his routines. A Civil War re-enactor camped in front of the Monument talked to visitors and demonstrated his authentic equipment.

The Chairpersons for this year's Festival, Paula Catlin and Ellen O'Malley, were very pleased with the Festival. All figures are not yet in, but Mrs. Stone estimates that the totals aren't too far below previous amounts of over $30,000. All the funds go to the Susquehanna County Historical Society and Free Library Association and are used to help operate the County library system and the County's local history museum and genealogical center. "We count on the Festival proceeds to reach our annual budget," she said, "and this year it's more crucial than ever with the threatened cuts in state aid to public libraries. It's the effort and time selflessly donated by so many community people and businesses that make the Festival successful. We are especially thankful this year that the weather didn't stop our dedicated supporters."

Back to Top

Leet Agency Receives Top Sales Awards

Columbus, Ohio – Local Nationwide Insurance agent Rick Leet has qualified for three top company and industry awards.

The Champion Award is given only to those agencies that meet the requirements in property and casualty insurance sales and service. This is the twelfth consecutive year the agency has attained this award. Rick and his staff were ranked number two out of 420 agencies in the state of Pennsylvania for this award. Associate agent Elaine Card recently attended the Champion conference in Orlando, Florida representing the agency.

The Nationwide Life Council was awarded to the agency for their outstanding sales of life insurance. The agency was ranked number five in the company for this award that has a total agency force of 4,250 across the country. Rick and his family attended a conference in Hilton Head, SC earlier this year.

Pictured (l-r) are: front row – Tanya Leet, Rick Leet; back row – Elaine Card, Sue Sparks, Marian Knapp.

Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) is an industry award recognized by financial services agents from all companies around the world. To obtain this award the agent must meet strict guidelines of sales, service, and ethics in the sale of financial products. Only the top five percent of all agents meet these qualifications. This is the ninth consecutive year Rick has qualified for MDRT.

"Rick is a quality agent who consistently earns top awards," said Joseph Manci, Agency Financial Sales Officer. "We can always count on his agency to be a leader in financial sales, no matter what market conditions exist."

Rick is a Certified Financial Planner licensee who resides in Shehawken with his wife, Tanya and three daughters. He is a third generation agent and has been with Nationwide Insurance for 20 years.

Look for his Open House later this month, where he will be celebrating the agency’s 65th anniversary.

Back to Top

NTRPDC Awards Eight Local Grants

Montrose - Since April, the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission awarded eight grants and loans to businesses and municipalities in Susquehanna County.

Three Electronic Business Grants were awarded. Rush Graphic Service, located in Montrose, received $1,000 for computer hardware and software to increase their graphics production capabilities. Rush Computer Systems received $990 to purchase the necessary components for developing business application software to help their clients with e-business. Jerauld's Gifts, also located in Montrose, received $820 for web site development.

Municipal Hardware / Software Incentive Grants were awarded to two municipalities. Forest Lake Township received $475 for a digital camera, USB cable, and printer. Little Meadows Borough received $500 for a computer, monitor and printer.

The Electronic Business and Municipal Hardware/Software grant programs are provided to help rural businesses and municipalities become more technologically oriented to increase their competitiveness and to help them provide better service.

Pictured (l-r) are: first row – Marsha Florence, Wildflower Pottery; David Yulke, Rush Computer Systems; Kathy Yulke, Rush Graphic Services; Kam DeLong, Wildflower Pottery; second row – Ivan Burman, Burman Collision Service; Jason Krise, PA Representative Tina Pickett's office; third row – Kim Barnes, NTRPDC; Sharon DiGennaro, Wildflower Pottery.

Two Small Business Training Grants were awarded. Burman Collision Services of Jackson, received $1,380 for staff to attend Automotive Estimatics 3000 seminar and Wildflower Pottery, located in Thompson, received $1,000 for owner Sharon DiGennaro to attend a conference to help her business. Through this grant program, business owners with fifty or less employees are eligible for a matching grant up to $1,500 for training to learn about emerging trends and technologies that affect the way they do business. This and the other two grant programs are made possible through funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

Golis Machine, Inc., Montrose, received a $100,000 loan from the Five Star Loan Program to purchase equipment. NTRPDC administers various low interest loan programs to provide a means of capital to start up enterprises and expansion funds to existing businesses.

For more information, please contact NTRPDC by calling toll-free at 888-868-8800 or visit our website at www.northerntier.org. The Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission is an economic development agency that serves businesses and communities in Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, and Wyoming Counties.

Back to Top

People's National Bank Builds Endowment

On July 25 People’s National Bank donated $5000 to the Community Foundation of Susquehanna County as part of its charitable giving plan. PNB has long been a leader in supporting those throughout the region providing charitable services and continues its efforts through its annual support of the People’s National Bank Endowment Fund. The Community Foundation administers the PNB Fund and the vision of PNB is to use the income generated from its Fund to support charitable initiatives in future years.

Tom Bush and Don Adams of PNB present check to Joe Burke of the Community Foundation.

"We are proud to be associated with PNB and the establishment of this Fund is proof of PNB’s commitment to this region for years to come. We are grateful for their support," said Joe Burke President and CEO of the Community Foundation.

Back to Top

SCHS Celebrates 50th Class Reunion

The 1953 Class of Susquehanna Consolidated High School (SCHS) celebrated their fiftieth anniversary June 8, 2003, at the Starrucca House, Susquehanna. This combined class of Oakland and Susquehanna made them the first class of the consolidation, in 1953. The commencement was held in the Town Theatre on June 5, 1953 and graduated ten from Oakland and 25 from Susquehanna. Seven classmates are now deceased. Dr. Joseph Yurkewitch was Supervising Principal and Prof. Stuart Button High School Principal.

Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Kello and Mrs. Mary Parks were honored guests of the class. A program, led by Master of Ceremonies Jerry Hall, followed a buffet dinner. Lois (Hobbs) Bennett sang, "One Day at a Time." Mrs. Parks and Mr. Kello each gave responses and Mr. Kello was speaker for the occasion. Many memories were shared by the classmates. Gifts were awarded to Barbara Agler and David Reid traveling the farthest from California, Helen Evans having the most great-grandchildren and Roger and Naomi Getter, married the longest.

The Class of 1953 at Susquehanna Consolidated High School.

Mementos were given to classmates and guests and door prizes were also given. The following classmates attended: Barbara Agler (California), Janet (Cole) Baker, Clyde Barnes, Lois (Hobbs) Bennett, Ray Bills, Gerald Botts (Oklahoma), Joseph Dantini, Betty (Carpenter) DiLuzio, Helen Evans (North Carolina), Joyce (Mallery) Finch, Roger Getter, Gerald Hall (Texas), Shirley (Tolomei) Hartmann, Florence (Barnes) Hogentogler, Lorraine (Deakin) Jackson (Florida), Virginia (Burdick) Morton, Jesse Payne, Nicholas Percival, Marilyn (Kuss) Prophet (Kentucky), David Reid (California), Carolyn (Burton) Stella. Class associates attending were: Joyce (Butler) Marshman and Fred Schwarztrauber. Guests included spouses and family members. Those not designated came from Pennsylvania and New York States.

Several classmates and guests also attended the SOL Alumni banquet, June 7 at the Starrucca House and class associate Bob Spangenberg and wife, Jean joined the class. Bob and Jean were unable to join the class on Sunday, due to his fiftieth reunion of Boot Camp in South Carolina.

A great time was enjoyed by all, reflecting on the last fifty years!

Back to Top

Rob's Market Donates To Relay for Life

On June 28, 2003 Rob’s Market participated in the American Cancer Society’s "Grocer’s Day" with a generous donation of $500. On this day people on the Relay for Life team from Peoples National Bank bagged groceries for the customers of Rob’s Market and in exchange Rob Robinson made a donation to the American Cancer Society. As the groceries were bagged the customers had an opportunity to donate with tips for the baggers. They generously contributed $287.23 for the day. Rob is a vital source of support to our community with various fund raising activities. The Peoples National Bank Relay Team ("The Northern Stars") wishes to thank Rob Robinson for his continued support in this effort to help the American Cancer Society.

Pictured (l-r) are: Joe Ferretti, Don Adams, Suzie Brant, Rob Robinson.

Peoples National Bank’s Relay for Life team has been in existence for many years. This year the team raised $11,121.78, which exceeded their goal of $10,000. They won the "Platinum Award" this year, being the second to win this award in Susquehanna County. "The Northern Stars" and their team from the Southern branches of Peoples National Bank raised a total of approximately $18,200 for the American Cancer Society this year. They already have their goals set and are ready to go over the top in 2004.

Back to Top

Calcium Counts!

Submitted by Abbey Puzo, Dairy Ambassador

Now that football and cheerleading season is starting up you need to make sure that you are getting more than enough calcium!

Why do you need calcium? Calcium plays a very important role in the health of our teeth and bones. It is essential for proper heart and muscle contraction and therefore it is crucial for athletes.

Abbey Puzo, Susquehanna County Dairy Ambassador wants sport participants to count calcium.

How much do you need? The recommended daily allowance of calcium is four glasses of milk. Now that you know how much calcium you need, you need to know some facts about vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium. To receive vitamin D you need to get about 15 minutes of direct sunlight a day.

Back to Top

Take Me Home!

Hi! My name is Chelsea and I’m a beautiful, three-year old female Siberian Husky with the prettiest blue eyes. I am very friendly and playful, but I can’t seem to find that special someone to take me home. Won’t you come see me? I may be the perfect dog for you! I’ll be waiting at the Susquehanna County Humane Society shelter in Montrose at (570) 278–1228.

Back to Top

Chamber Reorganizes

The Susquehanna County Chamber of Commerce is gearing up to make even more positive differences in our County business community, through the formation of public / private partnerships.

Recently, the County Chamber held elections to fill the positions of the Board of Directors. This year’s Board, which has representation from the entire County community, includes members from all professions, and has an experienced and qualified coordinator - MaryAnn Warren.

"The Chamber of Commerce is a great way for businesses to expand their exposure to the public and more importantly, to their local market," said MaryAnn Warren, Coordinator. "The availability of group health benefits for small and emerging companies can only help foster the creation of additional family-sustaining employment here in Susquehanna County."

Justin Taylor, Susquehanna County Economic Development Director, will serve as Chairman of the Board for 2003. "It’s time to make the Susquehanna County Chamber of Commerce the premier leader in business support services," Chairman Taylor offered. "With the help and support of the Board, the Department of Economic Development, and the rest of the County business community, Susquehanna County will become the leader in business and industry development here in the northeast."

The Chamber of Commerce Board consists of nine members - three of which represent the local satellite chambers or business associations throughout the County. Members from these groups include: Dennis Maloney – Maloney’s Sports Pub & Family Restaurant, Hallstead – representing Endless Mountains Business Association; Duane Nolan – Village Hardware, Forest City – representing Greater Forest City Industries; and Sue Dean – Donald Dean & Sons, Inc., Montrose – representing Montrose Area Chamber of Commerce. Additional board members include Steve Major – Pennstar Bank, Jeff Tyler – Hawk Insurance, Suzanne Cobb – Personal Interest Member, Ray Osburn – Leadership 20/20, and Marilyn Talboys – Susquehanna County Literacy Program.

For more information about the Susquehanna County Chamber of Commerce, contact MaryAnn Warren at (570) 278-SCCC (7222) or send E-mail to susqcoc@epix.net. Feel free to stop by the Chamber, located in the County Office Building - 31 Public Ave. in Montrose.

Back to Top

FSA Nominations Now Underway

Montrose, PA – Charles G. Perkins, County Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Susquehanna County announced the nomination process for FSA county committee members began Friday, August 1.

"The FSA county committee system gives farmers a grassroots link to the local administration of our Agency’s programs," said Perkins. "It is critical that all producers who are eligible to participate in our programs take part in the election by voting or becoming candidates themselves."

Susquehanna County is served by a three-person county committee which supervises local FSA operations and makes critical decisions on how programs are applied in their communities. Committee members use their knowledge of local agricultural operations and issues to make program decisions regarding price support, commodity loans, conservation and disaster assistance. Members serve three-year terms.

"Of the nearly 8,200 committee members that serve our 2,466 FSA offices nationwide, roughly one-third of these seats are up for election each year," said Perkins. "The upcoming election is a great opportunity for producers to ensure that county committee seats are filled with responsible candidates of their choice."

This year the election in Susquehanna County will be held in Local Administrative Area 3 which comprises Ararat, Clifford, Gibson, Great Bend, Harford, Harmony, Herrick, Jackson, Lenox, Oakland and Thompson Townships.

Farmers and ranchers can begin nominating committee members from these townships. The nomination form (FSA-669-A) is available at local FSA offices or on-line at forms.sc.egov.usda.gov. Eligible voters may nominate themselves.

Nomination forms must be received in local FSA offices by September 5. Based on the results of these nominations, ballots will be prepared and mailed to eligible voters on November 18. Voters must postmark ballots or return them to local FSA offices by December 1. On January 1, 2004, elected committee members and any alternates will take office.

Farm owners, operators, tenants and sharecroppers of legal voting age can be nominated and vote if they are eligible to take part in any FSA program. Almost anyone eligible to take part in a local FSA program may become a candidate for the county committee. Each county office annually prepares a list of eligible voters; the public can review these lists at the county offices. The elections are open to all eligible candidates and voters without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, or disability.

Back to Top

Senator Madigan Visits Susquehanna County

The Susquehanna County Conservation District recently hosted Senator Madigan and members of the Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee, during a day-long event at Salt Springs Park that focused on the Dirt and Gravel Road Program.

The day began with a bus tour of three dirt and gravel road sites. The first site was completed two years ago on Salt Springs Road, the second was a proposed future site on Buckley Road, and the third was at the most recently completed Fork’s Hill Road site.

Township supervisors, contractors and suppliers for the Fork’s Hill Road project, representatives from the Pennsylvania Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance for Dirt and Gravel Roads Program, and local Conservation District representatives all met at the Fork’s Hill site. A complete review of methods used on the site was given by Phil Dux, Manager of Field Operations for the Center for Dirt and Gravel Road Studies, and Jim Garner, site inspector from the Susquehanna County Conservation District.

Toby Anderson welcomed everyone back to the Salt Springs Park Pavilion where lunch was served to everyone, compliments of the Susquehanna County Conservation District. Lunch was followed by an in-depth review of the Dirt and Gravel Roads program. State, county and local representatives and one local land owner were given the opportunity to provide their own unique perspective.

Senator Madigan expressed his appreciation for this area and the work Susquehanna County townships have done on their roads with the technical and financial assistance of the Conservation District.

Back to Top

Blue Ridge Senior Center Update

Some places make you feel good the moment you walk in the door. Warm and friendly, casual and with many smiling faces. Such a place is the Blue Ridge Senior Center in Great Bend. Come and join us, we miss you.

June was busy, we did so many interesting things. First of all there was the Rock A Thon. Several rocked and rocked, and can you believe this they even played dominoes while rocking. Mary White was the one taking in the most money.

The Center was closed on the 12th, as a large number of our members went to Troy, Pa., for the annual Senior Picnic. Yes, even though it was a rainy day, many went by bus to the Troy Fair Grounds for the day. There were many interesting things to see but the one most enjoyed was the Antique Auto Show. Also a good lunch was served and one could take advantage of the many free tests available, such as Blood Pressure, etc.

We always welcome speakers, and we had two this month. Diane Gow was here and instructed us on eyesight and glaucoma exercises. Then Carol Betharflurt from Forest City, expressed the importance of having a "Living Will". Don't wait, this is very important.

On our Friday Brown Bag day, twenty-five enjoyed lunch at Maloney’s.

The following are a year older having had birthdays during June: Vonnie Taylor (our b/p gal), Vic Peckenschinder and Naomi too, Louis Timmerman, Al Maholich, Helen Randall, Thelma Carmen and Helen Wagner. A belated Happy Birthday to you all.

Last but not least, many were out for the WIC for Seniors vouchers. Thanks to the State of Pennsylvania, we can enjoy more fresh fruits and vegetables.

Now for July, the 7th month of the year, the month of fireworks, picnics and much more.

First let me tell about our annual quilt. Goldie and her helpers have been working and as of this writing are still going strong. It is beautiful – the pattern is called "Along the Trail", such lovely colors, lavender, purple and greens. It will be taken to the Harford Fair and raffle tickets are sold there and all during the months of July and August.

Swimming continues and so many are enjoying this weekly activity. The pool at Elk Lake School is very large and one can really swim. It is a great night out, we go by bus, enjoy the water, and usually some conversation, and then stop for "refreshments" on the way home. Many laughs during the evening and getting to know others at the same time. Come on out and join the group going; I am sure you will enjoy the night out.

There was a trip this month. A bus ride to Seneca Lake where we boarded a boat for a cruise and lunch. Then on the way home a stop at Tioga Gardens. What a treat! The weather cooperated and the sixteen (16) going from the center really had a wonderful day. Thanks to Alice Smith who planned the trip.

We had speakers again, Sue Atcavage, physical therapist from the Forest City Care Center spoke about the benefits received from this service, especially if one has had broken bones and needs to learn how to walk again. A representative, Bonnie Austin, from the Foster Grandparent Program also spoke, giving us details about the program and encouraging us to sign up.

Eating out again, first eighteen (18) traveled to Binghamton and enjoyed lunch at the Chinese Wok. A buffet with so many choices, it was tempting to try it all. Then our annual Picnic at the Park. Recreation Park in Great Bend was invaded by more than fifty (50) people, some from the Blue Ridge Center and the centers at Lanesboro and also Forest City. We had hot dogs and the usual picnic food, including watermelon. Games were played and our guests had a time to catch up on the news from each center. The weather was perfect and so was the day, many thanks to all who helped in any way.

Lastly the birthdays for July: Tom Westfall, Pat Tarbox (Lanesboro Center), Jenny Paumgarten, Alice Parrillo, Alice Smith, and Bill Wagner. Alice Smith turned 90 years young, and her family hosted a wonderful party for her, here at the center. There were so many out, both old and new friends, family members. Alice is one of our volunteers and also works on the quilt, plans our trips, one busy lady. Happy Birthday to all.

You know we have avid dominoes players, and also a group that play cards, exercise on Mondays lead by Ruth Clift, every once in a while a trivia quiz, and much more. Come on out, and enjoy!

Back to Top

United Way Appoints New Board Members

The new United Way of Susquehanna County appointed 5 new members to its board of directors as it gears up to start its 2003/2004 annual campaign. New directors include Lance Benedict of Hop Bottom employed as Susquehanna County Sheriff, Lori Hubal of Thompson employed with Citizens National Bank and Thompson Township Auditor, Elly Conroy of Hallstead employed with Barnes-Kasson Health Centers, Jim May of Scranton and Silver Lake employed with Market Share Development, Inc., and Robert Welch of Brackney employed as Vice President and Regional Sales Manger with Pennstar Bank. This raises the number of Directors to 11 according to Joe Burke, President. Burke added "We want to make sure we have fair representation throughout the county. We also want people on board who are able to bring the necessary skills to help us develop and grow the agency to benefit all. With these latest additions we are right on target and we’re lucky to have them." Other United Way Board members include Joe Burke, Tom Chamberlain, Alice Deutsch (Chairperson), Betty Kwader, Bill Lewis, and Earle Wootton. For more information on the United Way call 278-3868 or e-mail unitedway@epix.net.

Back to Top

4-H News

North Jackson

The North Jackson Ag 4-H Club’s last meeting was held at the Carey’s Pavilion on July 10 at 7:00 p.m. The meeting began as always with pledges and then roll call. Beth Giangrieco read the secretaries report and informed and reviewed some old business. Amanda Nowicki arrived just in time to read the treasurer’s report. After that Jessica Sartell was asked to tell the club what dairy camp was about. Megan Carey reminded the club about the car wash for county council that took place on July 12. Mrs. Nowicki urged the club members to attend the "Rodeo" that would take place. Abby Onyon informed the club of some new events coming up. On July 12 there was a mandatory Livestock meeting for all livestock members. On July 16 there was a one-day camp at the Harford fair grounds. Anyone over the age of 13 can sign up to be a counselor. The club trip to Knoebels was held on July 17. On July 18 there was a 4-H dance at the Montrose fire hall. On July 23 there was a one-day trip to Baltimore.

After all the business was taken care of, demonstrations started. Amber Lattner and Asia did their demonstration on the process of making wool and its various uses. Kaitlin and Tara Flor did their demonstration on their boxer-dog, Guenther. They told the club about the history of the boxer-dog and also its temperament, they also told the club a few unusual but funny experiences that they have had with their boxer dogs. Next Adam Stout did his presentation on his pet hermit crabs. He told the group how you take care of hermit crabs, where they prefer to live, and where he got his hermit crabs from. That wraped up the demonstrations.

News Reporter: Kaitlin Flor

Back to Top

Terry Irwin Gets Poem Published

Terry Irwin, a student at Blue Ridge High School recently had a poem published by Cader Publishing, Michigan.

Terry is the son of Terry Irwin and Debra Whitmore.

Back to Top


News  |  Living  |  Sports  |  Schools  |  Churches  |  Ads  |  Events
Military  |  Columns  |  Ed/Op  |  Obits  | Archive  |  Subscribe


© 2003 Susquehanna County Transcript. All Rights Reserved