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HEADLINES: EMTC
Members Earn Five NEPTA Awards Saturday, March 27 was a big night for the Endless Mountains Theatre Company. As a member of a regional, non-professional theater association known as the Northeastern Pennsylvania Theatrical Alliance, members of EMTC were eligible to participate in an awards show that recognized outstanding on- and off-stage performances during the 2002 and 2003 seasons. When the gala evening was over, EMTC had received no fewer than five NEPTA awards! And the total number of nominations boasted by EMTC's productions, actors, directors, and technicians was close to thirty! EMTC's winners were: Joseph Bednarchik, Best Male Actor in a Musical (Little Shop of Horrors); Jonathan Caws-Elwitt, Best Supporting Male Actor in a Comedy (Figments); Steve Delfino, Best Male Juvenile Actor (Figments); Tim Hutchins, Best Director of a Comedy (Figments); and Tim Hutchins (again!), Best Costume Design (Little Shop of Horrors). Bednarchik and Delfino are among the many talented teens who continue to help community theater thrive in Susquehanna County. Bednarchik, it is to be noted, was competing for his award against adult leading men from other theater groups. "We deliberately proposed Joe for this category rather than a juvenile award," says EMTC Chair Bob DeLuca. "We put him where we thought he best belonged." Bednarchik has been performing with EMTC since 2000, with lead roles in many shows. Pictured (l-r) are: Jonathan Caws-Elwitt, Tim Hutchins, Joseph Bednarchik, Steve Delfino. Hutchins, the twice-over awardee, bubbled with delight and thankfulness for receiving these honors, as well as for the opportunities EMTC has given him to indulge his theatrical inclinations. Hutchins became active with EMTC as recently as the 2003 season, and he noted from the podium that his NEPTA for Figments was for "the first play I ever actually directed!" (though he does have many years of general theater experience). Not content to rest on their laurels, the EMTC folks are already gearing up for the 2004 summer/fall season, with auditions scheduled for May 5 and May 8 (stay tuned for details)! Also on the schedule once again is the fantastic Ed Lonzinski Middle/High School Theatre Camp (July 19-23), with registration open now through April 30. For more info, call (570) 434-2422. Rep. Major Meets With Library Users On a rainy Thursday, April 1st, State Representative Sandra Major visited the headquarters of the Susquehanna County Historical Society & Free Library Association in Montrose. She met with about thirty library users, friends, and staff to discuss the cuts in state funding. "What more can we do?" was the question on everyone's lips; Rep. Major responded that library advocates need to keep writing letters to the Governor, their representatives, and appropriation committee heads, and that the next two weeks are crucial. Please, if you value library services, make your voice heard! Long-time users and supporters, homeschooling mothers, and front-line staff eloquently expressed their support of the library and their concerns about the funding cuts. State funding to libraries was cut by 37% for 2004, after a last-minute budget deal that avoided a 50% cut. Governor Rendell has announced plans to restore a little more for 2005, which would result in a 30% cut (from previous levels of funding) for 2005. This represents a $50 million loss over two years-money that could have been matched by federal funds. Rep. Sandra Major (center) met with local library supporters to hear concerns. Members of the audience spoke passionately about how important the Susquehanna County libraries are to our rural area, describing them as "hubs of the community," "a treasure," and "indispensable." Many people pointed out that libraries are not only crucial to education, from pre-schoolers to adult learners, but also play a very important role in economic development. The technology available at the libraries, from resume writing to Internet research, is heavily used, especially by people who can't afford computers or who have been laid off. The library's role in sponsoring the Community Information Network, which is helping small businesses and organizations with world-wide exposure, was also highlighted. Representative Major agreed with all the points made and expressed her support of libraries-"I'm in your corner," she said, "but I'm only one vote." She strongly recommended that everyone write letters, and continue to write letters, to Harrisburg decision makers. Rep. Major asserted that a personal letter means the most, and that every letter is read. "Our legislature should be embarrassed that libraries have to beg for grants and hold bake sales just to keep the doors open," said an audience member. Librarians spoke about the effect that the cuts in new materials have had-"I have more visitors than ever," said Amelia Paterno from Susquehanna, "but they check out fewer items because there's not as much that's new." Rep. Major said that all of the points made would be the basis for effective letters. Audience members expressed deep thanks to Representative Major for her time and her ongoing support in Harrisburg. Please consider writing a letter to Governor Rendell with copies to the legislative leaders, the head of the appropriations committee, and your state senator and representative, asking that state funding for libraries be fully restored for 2005. The addresses to write to are: Governor Ed Rendell - 225 Main Capitol Building, Harrisburg PA 17120; Honorable John M. Perzel, Speaker - PA House of Representatives, 139 Main Capitol, House Box 202020, Harrisburg PA 17120; Honorable Samuel H. Smith, Majority Leader - PA House of Representatives, House Box 202020, Harrisburg PA 17120; Honorable David Argall, Chairman House Appropriations Committee - PA House of Representatives, 245 Main Capitol, House Box 202020, Harrisburg PA 17120; Senator Roger Madigan - Senate Box 203023, 286 Capitol Building, Harrisburg PA 17120; Senator Charles Lemmond - Senate Box 203020, 178 Capitol Building, Harrisburg PA 17120; Representative Tina Pickett - PA House of Representatives, House Box 202020, Harrisburg PA 17120; Representative Sandra J. Major - PA House of Representatives, House Box 202020, Harrisburg PA 17120.
SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY - Turning a tragic loss into something meaningful is not easy to do. It’s no surprise though that someone who touched so many during his life, would inspire those remaining after his death to do just that - something meaningful for others. On September 1, 2003 sixteen-year-old Mathew James White lost his life from injuries sustained in an automobile accident, and now his friends and family have established a scholarship fund to honor his memory. Mathew had many hopes and dreams during his short life. He was a caring, supportive, and loving son, big brother, and friend. He loved to listen to music, work and play on his computer, and spend time hanging out with all his friends. He had a wonderful sense of humor and could make anyone laugh. Mathew was a college prep student with plans of furthering his education, and like many sixteen year olds, was anxious to learn what the future would bring. All of this suddenly ended with his untimely death. Now, Mathew’s family and friends are honoring his memory through a scholarship fund in hopes that other children will be able to realize his dreams. Each year the James White Memorial Scholarship Fund will award a scholarship to a Montrose High School senior excelling in academics and participating in athletics who is committed to attending a college or technical school in order to further his or her education. This scholarship honoring Mathew’s memory will provide a grant to a deserving student every year, and forever. Tax-deductible donations on behalf of the Mathew James White Memorial Scholarship Fund can be sent to the Community Foundation of Susquehanna County, 36 Lake Ave., Montrose, PA 18801. For more information call 278-3800. Pack 81 Cub Scouts enjoyed a fun-filled day of tubing when they and their families gathered at Mount Tone, in February for some wintertime thrills. With four groomed trails and a lift back up the hill, Scouts got to experience sledding at its very best. Shana Mack, Susquehanna County Dairy Princess will soon be handing her reign to a new County Dairy Princess. Shana has gone above and beyond serving the dairy industry in her County. Shana wrote many news article about dairy farmers in her County and articles about the nutritional value of milk and dairy products. Shana did promotions at schools, stores, fair events, senior citizen and youth groups and many, many more. At this time Susquehanna County is seeking candidates to serve as County Dairy Princess. Single young ladies from a dairy background with an interest in the dairy industry should consider devoting a year to help support dairy farming by promoting the sale and consumption of milk and dairy products. Any single young lady between the age of 16-24, never married, whose family is engaged in dairy farming or is employed in a dairy related industry is eligible to compete for this title. A young lady is also eligible if she, herself, is employed as above or is the owner of at least two dairy animals, or has served her county for a full year as a Dairy Maid or Dairy Ambassador. The 2004/2005 Princess will serve the dairy industry of Susquehanna County for one year. The Princess makes many appearances at schools, stores, fair events and dairy shows. She also has the opportunity to speak to civic clubs, senior citizens groups, youth groups and other farm and non farm audiences. The Princess benefits include tremendous personal growth through the development of self-confidence, speaking ability, organizational, leadership and journalism skills, as well as having the opportunity to travel and meet new friends. Girls at least 10 years old may take part in the Susquehanna County Dairy Maid/Dairy Ambassador program. This program is complimentary to the Dairy Princess program functioning within the county to assist the Princess in carrying out her duties. The program educates and trains future princess candidates and promoters. The only qualification to become a Dairy Maid or Dairy Ambassador is to have a sincere desire to promote dairy products, be a milk drinker and a user of REAL dairy products. The Susquehanna County Dairy Princess Committee has announced that the 2004 Pageant, to crown the new Susquehanna County Dairy Princess and recognize all Dairy Ambassadors and Dairy Maids will be held on Friday, May 28, 7:30 p.m. at the Episcopal Church Hall in Montrose. Anyone interested in entering the Susquehanna County Dairy Princess contest or taking part in the Dairy Maid/Dairy Ambassador program should contact one of the county co-chairpersons, Evie Goff, at 278-1212 or 278-1158, or Mary Puzo, at 278-4704 by April 26. Dan Scales Is Fla. Fire Dept. Captain Dan Scales, son of David and Carol Scales, Susquehanna, was recently appointed Operations Captain of the Ponce Inlet, Florida Fire Department. In his new appointment, Dan is responsible for every aspect of the Ponce Inlet operation, from responding to emergencies to filling overtime positions. He also functions as Battalion Chief for the fire district, encompassing the Southeastern portion of Volusia County (south of Daytona Beach). Dan is a Florida and National Registry paramedic and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management, and an Associate’s Degree in EMS. He is active in his local and sate fire/EMS committees, as well as the Fire Users Group of his regional communications center. Dan graduated from Susquehanna Community High School and was trained as a paramedic at Robert Packer and Barnes-Kasson Hospitals. He is married to the former Becky Howell, Honesdale and they have two children, Emma and David. Wedding Announced Wallace – Fancher Colleen M. Wallace and James R. Fancher were united in a celebration of marriage and family on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2004 at the Christ Community United Methodist Church, Syracuse, NY. Reverend B. J. Norrix officiated the ceremony. The bride was given in marriage by her children, Corey and Kaitlin Wallace. The Matron of Honor was Laura Barnhart, sister of the bride. The Best Man was Mark Guinan, friend of the bride and groom. A reception followed at the Holiday Inn, Farrell Road, Syracuse, NY. Colleen is the daughter of Bernard and Joan O’Neil, Hallstead, PA and the late Richard Whitcomb. James is the son of Joan Fancher, Great Bend, PA and the late Louis J. Fancher. The bridge is a Special Investigation Specialist for Kemper Insurance, Syracuse, NY. The groom owns and operates his own detailing business, Fancher Enterprises, Syracuse. The couple resides in Syracuse. Spotlight
On The Worobey Farm This month I have chosen to spotlight the Worobey Dairy Farm, which is owned and operated by Dale Worobey and his family. Mr. Worobey and his wife, Sandra have four sons, Joshua, Zachery, Noah and Daynel. Worobey’s reside in Orson. Mr. and Mrs. Worobey and two of their sons, Noah and Zach have a picture snapped with Dairy Princess Shana Mack. Mr. Worobey was raised on the farm he now owns and Mrs. Worobey is from Montrose. Mr. Worobey took over his farm in 1990, then becoming a three generation farm. There is a total of eighty head of dairy cattle on the farm, of which 40-50 are milk cows. The cows are housed in a tie stall barn. The family owns 139 acres of land and rents 50 acres. They raise 16 acres of corn and 90 acres of hay. The rest of the acreage is pastured. The farm has received the Dairy of Distinction Award, DHIA Awards and a Conservation Award. A unique thing about this farm is that Dale’s grandfather died when Dale’s father was just sixteen years old. At that time Dale’s father took over full responsibility for the farm and helped raise his siblings, along with his mother. I would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Worobey for letting me visit them and spotlighting their farm. Dairy Message: Recent studies have shown that the nutrients in dairy foods are effective in preventing osteoporosis, obesity, certain cancers and are also effective in reducing and preventing high blood pressure. This new scientific research provides even more evidence that milk and dairy foods are a great value for consumers. Are you Interested in Joining 4-H? Here’s How! Hurry! Hurry! It’s not too late to join 4-H in Susquehanna County for the 2004 project year. Contact us today for a 4-H club near you. There are 37 clubs with over 220 fun projects to choose from. Enrollment forms are due to the Extension office by May 1, so don’t wait, call Penn State Cooperative Extension at 570-278-1158 today! Dylan Jenner, of Montrose takes a seat with two prize-winning 4-H pumpkins at Pumpkin Roundup. North Jackson Ag On March 21, the North Jackson Ag 4-H horse and pony kids held their meeting at BJ Carey's home. Megan Carey opened the meeting and gave the dates of all the registration due dates on clinics, horse camp, horse enrollment and membership. She also reminded the kids about their updated coggins and sponsors. Members discussed their trip to the horse expo in Harrisburg. A great time was had by all. We took 15 4-H kids and 15 parents. We stayed overnight and watched the Equus theater. We can't wait to go again next year. We also had some kids and parents go the judging school and to winning ways. They were great clinics and learned a lot. They were both held at Penn State. We are making plans for another fund-raiser and a club trail ride. On March 20, five of our members went to the horseless camp at the Blue Ridge High School, a great time was had by all. We learned a lot about the parts of the horse and judging a horse. The games were a lot of fun. We did some book work and helped the new members with their books. We discussed the up coming clinics and horse camp. Devon Kaminsky gave her dream horse report and showed us her brand design. Emily Walker gave her breed report and gave us her treasurer’s report.
This is Sassy! She is a beautiful, two-year old Collie/Rotti mix. This medium sized girl (only about two feet high) was found as a stray but knows how to sit and stay and is so eager to please. She has a coat like velvet and she just knows that there’s that special someone to pet her, love her and discover what a wonderful companion she will be. She has been here much too long and her time is running out. Please come see her. Here’s Trixie! She’s a little roly-poly two-year old Beagle who is just ready to have some fun with that special family. She’s been waiting for quite some time now. Won’t you come see her? Please come see us at the Susquehanna County Humane Society Shelter, in Montrose, (570) 278–1228. More
History On Persons' Building (In regard to the Persons building/old Post Office, additional history by Joe Persons, former resident, now of Great Bend.) The Persons building was built in 1906 to house the Post Office, by my grandfather, Henry J. Persons, a Civil War veteran. The Post Office remained "on the corner" from 1906 to 1960 when it moved to its present location. The laundromat moved into the building in 1961. For many years the two front rooms on the second floor were occupied by the telephone office and switchboard operators, until the dial system was installed, in 1955. Also on the second floor were several doctors, among them Dr. John Zavoy. After Dr. Zavoy moved out, William S. Young (of Starrucca) operated a photo business until 1964. In the rear of the apartment building, my Aunt Margaret stored furniture and the room doubled as a playroom for me. The next floor up (the third floor) is where my parents, Henry (Hank) and Ann Persons and I lived for ten years, moving out in September of 1964. The other apartment was occupied by Cora Crowley, along with her daughter, Norine Sullivan and her (Norine’s) daughters, Mary Jane and Patricia. Cora Crowley was employed by the telephone company as an operator. On the top floor resided Edward and Katie (Basso) Kelch and son, Eddie for man years. Also on the top floor (in a back apartment) Rena Basso, a sister of Katie Kelch lived for many years. My father and his brother, sister and Aunt Cora sold the building in 1963. I have many fond memories of the building. When Eileen Ryan was cleaning the laundromat, I would go in and talk to her. I Remember calling from the bottom of the steps to tell my mother I was home from school. (Lou, this is all I can remember. I hope I was some help to you.) Joe Persons. (P.S. Thank you, Joe. You did a great job. LCP) Don't Buy Pets To Fill Easter Baskets Wayne County- Bunnies and chicks have become one of the most recognizable symbols of Easter, but don't give in to the temptations of buying a pet impulsively. "Young bunnies and chicks are heavily marketed during the Easter season, but too many people buy these animals on the spur of the moment without being prepared," said Susan Frisch, Dessin Animal Shelter Manager, "before purchasing an Easter pet, people should realize they require as much or more attention as other pets, such as a cat or dog". "Rabbits and chicks are delicate and really should not be handled too much. They have very fragile bones that are easily broken. Rabbits have a lot of anxiety when they are handled because they naturally become frightened when they feel they have been caught. Chicks don't like to be handled much either," Frisch said. Easter animals need a lot of interaction and proper handling. Bunnies, for example, need two to three hours of quality time daily. Left in an outdoor hutch in the back yard, they become depressed. They become prey to other animals, and just the presence of a dog or cat can give them a heart attack, Frisch said. Will your cute Easter chick grow up to be a rooster or a hen? They can be very noisy and crow at odd hours of the night and early morning. Chickens need coops and ducks need ponds, Frisch said. Frisch warned parents to think carefully before buying children an Easter pet. Consider whether or not an animal would be easy to re-home if caring for it becomes a problem. Make Easter safe for bunnies, chicks and ducks by giving a chocolate pet instead. Cunard Promoted To Pennstar Bank VP SCRANTON, PA. - Pennstar Bank President and COO David E. Raven recently announced that Eugene C. Cunard has been promoted to Vice President in the bank’s Trust and Investment Division. Cunard is responsible for Trust and Estate Administration, developing new client relationships, training, tax preparation and review. He is a graduate of Luzerne County Community College and Wilkes University, where he earned a B.S. in Accounting. He is a graduate of The Central Atlantic School of Trust at Bucknell University and has completed the Certified Financial Paraplanner Program through the College for Financial Planning. He is a member of the Estate Planning Council of Northeastern Pennsylvania and Wyoming Valley Chapter of the American Institute of Banking. Mr.Cunard resides in Upper Askam with his wife Karen, son, Justin and daughter, Alyssa. Commissioners Asked To Town Meeting The new Susquehanna County Commissioners have been in office now for slightly more than three months, and the League of Women Voters of Susquehanna County has invited them to join League members and the general public for a town meeting, planned for Wednesday, April 14 at the New Milford Borough Building beginning at 7:30 pm. Following introductions and a brief statement by each concerning his/her goals for the county, the three incumbents, Roberta Kelly, Jeffrey Loomis, and MaryAnn Warren, will field questions/comments from the audience. "This will be an excellent early opportunity to meet and speak with our new commissioners," says LWVSC President Ruth Wilmarth. The League urges everyone to attend this meeting, which, like all general meetings of the LWVSC, is open to the public.
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