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Issue Home November 23, 2004 Site Home

HEADLINES:
ASSETS Graduation
Susquehanna Postmaster Honors Area Veterans
Jessica Sartell Wins Top Poultry Honors
A Milestone For Montrose Kiwanis
Engagement Announced MacDonald – Hoffman
Marines Celebrate 229th Birthday!
Leadership 2020 Year To Begin In March
Calendars Available From Rep. Major
Blue Ridge Senior Center Update
Beth Page Wins National Award
Susky Fire Dept. 150 Club Winners

ASSETS Graduation

Montrose: ASSETS continues to make a big contribution to this area’s self-employment sector, according to TREHAB Executive Director Dennis Phelps. He emphasized this in congratulating the 15 graduates of the fall cycle of the ASSETS-TREHAB program during graduation ceremonies and a celebration dinner held at the Tea Room of the Montrose Bible Conference on November 8, with graduates, family, guests and program trainers in attendance.

The ASSETS Program (A Service for Self-Employment Training Support) is a training, mentoring and technical support program for persons in the process of starting up or expanding a small business. This 22nd graduating class is developing businesses ranging from a bed and breakfast, to a healing arts center, to home-based secretarial services.

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

The keynote speaker for the event was Susquehanna County Commissioner Jeffrey Loomis. He congratulated the graduates and praised them for continuing their entrepreneurial education through a program such as ASSETS-TREHAB. He gave special thanks to the class instructors and mentors who volunteer their time and knowledge to the program.

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. The next ASSETS class will be held in April, 2005.

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Library Membership Drive Underway

The 2005 membership campaign for the Susquehanna County Historical Society and Free Library Association is in progress. Membership materials have been mailed and are also available at local libraries and on-line at www.susqcolibrary.org.

Once again, the goal is 1000 members-a modest one, considering that there are almost 16,000 registered library users and thousands more who use the Historical Society and museum. Individual members contribute $20 or more, families $30 or more, sustaining members $100 or more, and benefactors $250 and up. Contributions of any size are welcomed. Local support is one of the factors used to determine the amount of funding provided by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania – the more local support, the more funding received.

The membership drive is again crucial this year. Thanks to a vocal outpouring of support from the community, state funding for public libraries has been partially restored, but is still down 23% from two years ago. "We are trying to get a balanced budget in place for next year ," says Administrator/Librarian Susan Stone, "but it's hard as we always operate as frugally as we can. There's no fat to cut – it has to come out of materials and services."

Members of the Association support county-wide library services and the county Historical Society. They receive a quarterly newsletter devoted to the Association's activities and events, and are entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting in January.

The money given by members and friends helps fund county-wide library service, provided through 4 locations (Montrose, Forest City, Hallstead-Great Bend, and Susquehanna) and by the county-wide Books-by-Mail/Books-on-Wheels service. Contributions enable the Association to purchase books, videos, CDs, magazines, books-on-tape, and other materials, which are available to all residents of Susquehanna County. Continually-expanding informational resources are available through the libraries. At each location you will find free high-speed Internet access and Internet training; on-line databases that can also be accessed from home with your library card; high-powered workstations with the full Microsoft Office suite, free training programs, and high-speed laser printers; CD-ROM games for children; and a catalog of library holdings across Pennsylvania (which can be requested through Inter-Library Loan at no charge). "All our technology has been funded entirely through grants!", notes Mrs. Stone.

Donations also help fund the County Historical Society and its museum, open to the public at no charge. People seeking information on their local ancestors visit the Historical Society's Genealogy Research Center. Visitors come from all over the country, bringing their tourist dollars to benefit local businesses! The Historical Society is open every weekday (October to April: 9-5 on Monday, Thursday, and Friday, 12-5 on Tuesday and Wednesday; 9-5 all week the rest of the year), more hours than any neighboring historical society. The Historical Society also publishes a biannual journal, available by subscription, on local history and genealogy.

The many programs sponsored by the Library and Historical Society also depend on community support. Open houses, Babies & Books, Toddler Time, Pre-School Story Hour, Summer Reading, educational programs for home-schooling families, the Write and Illustrate Your Own Picture Book contest, guest speakers, Hobby Night, and other special events are very popular.

Mary Jo Bayer and Judy Decker lead the Membership Drive committee this year. "The response so far has been great," says Mrs. Stone, "but we still have a long way to go to reach 1,000 members! We can do it with your help."

For more information about the membership drive or any of the Association's services, please call 278-1881.

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Jessica Sartell Wins Top Poultry Honors

The Yankee Fall Classic, a consortium of six New York Poultry clubs, hosted the 2004 national meet of the American Poultry Association at the New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse, on October 23-24, 2004.

Exhibitors from all across America and Canada showed over 3,800 standard chickens, bantams, waterfowl, turkeys, and guinea fowl in the open show at this annual meeting and convention of the APA, the oldest livestock organization in America. In the youth show that was held in conjunction with this national exhibition of show poultry, there were over 350 birds shown by junior exhibitors from throughout North America.

Four of the birds shown by Jessica Sartell, Thompson, PA, were named class champions, earning them one of the coveted places on Champions Row. Those 4 birds were (1) a Quail Antwerp Belgian bantam hen that was named Champion Rose Comb Clean Legged, Champion Bantam, and Grand Champion of the Youth Show; (2) a Quail Antwerp Belgian bantam pullet that was named Reserve Champion Rose Comb Clean Legged; (3) a standard Black Ameraucana cockerel that was named Champion Large Fowl; and (4) a White Silkie hen that was named Champion Featherlegged bantam. The eastern national meeting of the American Silkie Club (six exhibitors, showing 20 Silkies) was held in conjunction with the APA national, and three of Jessica's birds were chosen as Junior Champion Silkie, Junior Reserve Champion Silkie, and Champion Colored Silkie.

In addition to the beautiful plaques and trophies that Jessica was awarded for her wins at this important national show, Jessica also won many cash specials that were sponsored by the American Poultry Association, the American Silkie Club, and private individuals. Jessica is an active member and one of the youth coordinators of the Endless Mountains Poultry Association, which annually hosts exhibition poultry shows and live bird auctions on the Harford Fairgrounds. Jessica is also active in the Fancy Feathers and North Jackson Ag 4-H Clubs in Susquehanna County.

For more information on joining a Susquehanna County 4-H Club call the Penn State Cooperative Extension office at 278-1158.

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A Milestone For Montrose Kiwanis

Montrose Area Kiwanis is pleased to mark a milestone in their club on November 25, 2004. The club will mark the 30th anniversary of the organization of the Montrose Area Kiwanis. The official charter was dated January 11, 1975. At that time there were 32 members. The Charter Officers were: President Ed DeWitt, Vice President David Jerauld, Secretary Albert Belinsky, and Treasurer Robert Bahl. The Montrose Club was sponsored by the Tunkhannock Kiwanis Club.

The purpose of the Kiwanis organization is to improve the quality of life for children and families worldwide. The Kiwanis mission is, “As a thriving organization of men, women, and youth, we are dedicated to serving the children of the world and improving the quality of life worldwide.”

Today the Montrose Kiwanis club has 40 members. The club is proud to sponsor the Key Clubs of Montrose and Elk Lake High Schools. Over the years, they have hosted the annual Halloween parade for area children, contributed supplies and manpower to Thanksgiving and Christmas projects which help families in our area have a better holiday season, and supported many other youth projects. The largest project which the club participates in, is the Fourth of July celebration in Montrose. This project is undertaken by the three service clubs of Montrose – Kiwanis, Lions and Rotary.

Presently, the Montrose Kiwanis is very proud to sponsor the organizing K-Kid Club at Elk Lake School. Club members are working with senior Heather Shadduck and faculty member Louise Hicks as final details are completed for the club which will involve sixth graders.

If you are interested in knowing more about Kiwanis, feel free to contact any member or call President Will Tripp, at 663–9209.

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Engagement Announced MacDonald – Hoffman

All are invited to join in congratulating Lora MacDonald and Benjamin Hoffman as they formally announce their engagement.

Lora is the daughter of Kevin MacDonald and Wendy MacDonald-Dudley, of Susquehanna County. She graduated from Susquehanna Community High School in 2000. Lora earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Lock Haven University and is currently enrolled at Lehigh University, where she will receive her Master’s Degree in September, 2005. After graduating, Lora will be seeking a position in state government.

Benjamin is the son of John Hoffman and Susan Tome, of York, PA. He is also a graduate of Lock Haven University, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Administration. Ben is currently finishing up an internship with Christian School of York. He will be seeking a position as a high school athletic director.

An April, 2005 wedding is planned in Fleetwood, PA. The couple will reside in York.

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Marines Celebrate 229th Birthday!

All over the United States, November 10, 2004 was a big, big day for the Marine Corps, especially for the local Endless Mountain Detachment #880, Marine Corps League, who celebrated the Corps 299th birthday with a celebration at Maloney’s Restaurant, Hallstead, PA.

Opening the program was Commandant Frank Kwader, who, after welcoming the Marines and guests called upon Captain Ellis Hobart to lead in the Pledge of Allegiance. Followed by the Marines Hymn and a prayer by Chaplain Andy Kovach, Marine Fred Boerner read a message from General M. W. Hagee, 33rd Commandant.

Commandant Kwader read the history of the Marines and of the many duties they had to perform. Mr. Kwader introduced special guests that included the principal speaker, James Brett, along with Rick Rood, commander of American Legion Post 357, Hallstead, John Bronchella, County Veterans Administrator and Lou Parrillo, reporter.

Commandant Kwader’s message told of the Marine Corps activities and concluded with “Semper Fidelis – Always Faithful, Once a Marine Always a Marine.”

Mr. Kwader just couldn’t wait to put the “knife to the birthday cake,” a beautiful piece of sweets. As is the custom, in 1937 Maj. Gen. Commandant Thomas Holcomb started the practice of having a birthday cake at anniversary celebrations. By tradition, the first piece of cake goes to the oldest Marine (Andy Mazzanti) of Springville and the second piece to the youngest Marine (Mark Blacknell) of Harrisburg.

Each November 10, Marines across the globe pause to celebrate the rich history of the Corps, which has existed in one form or another since before America won its independence. On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress established the Continental Marines to fight in the American Revolution. The history is kept alive by Marine Corps all over the country. Their motto being “Dedicated to Helping One Another.”

James Brett, a guest of Mr. Mazzanti, a well-known, world renowned explorer and graduate of several colleges, presented slides that were taken all over the world, especially in South America and other foreign countries.

Mr. Brett told the way of life in many countries, where people had only the bare necessities and survived off the land. The slides were captivating in regard to the many different animals and the way the natives had to survive, using homemade bow and arrows to capture their prey.

The 45 minutes slide by Mr. Brett, to say the least, kept the Marines and guest well occupied.

“Happy Birthday, Marine Corps League”!

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Leadership 2020 Year To Begin In March

The Planning Committee is now accepting applications for the upcoming Leadership 2020 program. This will be the fourth leadership development program for Susquehanna County since its inception in Fall 2000. Currently, the number who have graduated from the program totals 35, and many of our referrals come from the graduates. We are looking for interested individuals for the March 11, 2005 kick-off. The program continues on every Tuesday evening, until graduation on May 24.

Leadership 2020 is a comprehensive leadership development program open to anyone living and/or working in Susquehanna County. Staff, volunteers and board members of non-profit agencies and service clubs, public officials, business people and anyone who wants to make a difference in their own community or develop their personal leadership potential is encouraged to apply.

The Leadership 2020 Program requires a significant commitment of time and travel within the County and will require homework and other out-of-class preparation, and at the end of the program series, occasional support and assistance to operate the program for future participants. This year, for the first time, we are utilizing a newly-developed statewide Extension leadership curriculum which is comprised of 36 hours of instruction.

For an application, or if you have questions on any aspect of the program, please contact Joann Kowalski at 278-1158. Applications are due by January 31, 2004.

If you are a business or organization interested in sponsoring a participant or would like to make a donation of money or space, please contact Joann Kowalski at the above.

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Calendars Available From Rep. Major

HARRISBURG- A limited number of 2005 Pennsylvania House of Representatives calendars are now available from Rep. Sandra Major (R-Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming).

The House of Representatives calendars feature a variety of seasonal photos taken of the state Capitol building and its surrounding grounds, along with impressive day and night outdoor shots of the historic building.

"I am happy to make these handsome calendars available," Major said.

The calendars are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis, and can be obtained by visiting Major's district offices.

The offices are at Route 706 Lake Montrose, RR 7 Box 7168, Montrose, PA 18801 (telephone: 570-278-3374) and 130 N. Bridge Street, Tunkhannock, PA 18657 (telephone: 570-836-5888).

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Blue Ridge Senior Center Update

Our first project of the month was to start a Harvest Basket to raffle off near Thanksgiving. At this point in time it is overflowing with all kinds of food and goodies.

Alice Smith arranged one of her trips and a good number traveled by bus to Owego, NY boarded the train and enjoyed the afternoon by eating, singing, and listening to music. This is a lovely trip - everyone should go at least once in their lifetime. Then on our first Brown Bag Day we enjoyed lunch at the Clifford Restaurant. Always nice to enjoy good food and good fellowship.

Quite a few birthdays this month - hope each and every one of you had a wonderful day. Those celebrating this month are: Etta Kelly, Linda McManamara, Fred Kelly, Bea Chandler, Larry Munson, Audrey LaHoda, Norma Darrow and Ruth Van Cott. I was there the day we enjoyed that delicious birthday cake that arrives each month.

The leaves have fallen, the air has turned colder - what better time to treat yourself to a haunted holiday. And we did.

We were invited to the Lanesboro Center for a Halloween Bash Costume Party. A number went – even some in costume. The costumes were so good, so clever, so original that even a couple "prizes" were brought back to Blue Ridge Center. It was a fun time - the food was delicious, the decorations in keeping with the holiday, everyone so welcoming. Marsha and her volunteers do a wonderful job and always make the day special. Thanks to everyone who helped in any way to make this a great day. Now, we also had a party here to celebrate Halloween. Our rooms were decorated with seasonal materials, favors were by each place setting, we had fun. Only two in costume; one was Gene Paungarden, he was a clown and our manager Betty was ? The quilt that was made here was used for a raffle. The winning ticket was drawn at our Halloween Party and once again the quilt will be traveling, this year it goes to Elmira, N. Y. The winner is Jim Carvin who purchased the ticket at the Harford Fair. I bet it is one that Don sold.

Not only do we enjoy ourselves and have fun, but we also participate in our community. For "Make a Difference Day" a number of our members baked and decorated cup cakes for Caring Cafe. Thanks to all who entered into this project.

Have you received one yet? I am referring to the 2005 calendars. One arrived recently in the mail and they are being passed out at the banks and grocery stores. That is a sure sign the year is coming to an end. 2004 may be ending but not our activities, our card games and our games of dominoes, our exercises, our lunch time laughs and the fellowship we enjoy. The year is ending, but it could be a beginning for you. Why not join us and see what goes on first hand. Take care till next time.

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Beth Page Wins National Award

Beth Page, daughter of Ed and Miriam Page, Susquehanna, placed second in Division II in the 2004 American Poultry Association's artist competition. This important art competition takes place annually, in conjunction with the national show of the American Poultry Association.

The competition took place at the New York State Fairgrounds, October 23-24, where the Yankee Fall Classic (a consortium of six New York exhibition poultry clubs) hosted this show and competition.

Exhibitors from all across America and Canada showed over 3,800 standard chickens, bantams, waterfowl, turkeys, and guinea fowl in the open show and more than 350 birds in the youth show at this annual meeting and convention of the APA, the oldest livestock organization in America.

In the 2004 APA artist competition, 38 different artists from across North America showed a total of 54 works of art, which were judged by Norma Padgett (Lake Butler, FL), Carol Rebhahn (Syracuse, NY), and Mary Learn (Bath, NY).

In Division II (ages 14-18), Beth Page won second place with a painting of a Speckled Sussex chicken (vertical oval panel) titled Judy's SOS.

The APA will award a total of $1200 in cash prizes to the first, second, and third place winners in the three divisions in the artist competition.

Beth is an active member and one of the youth coordinators of the Endless Mountains Poultry Association, which annually hosts exhibition poultry shows and live bird auctions on the Harford Fairgrounds.

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Susky Fire Dept. 150 Club Winners

Following are the October 150 Club winners of the Susquehanna Fire Dept.

10/2: Linda Norris, Ken Fisher, Nancy Culnane.

10/9: Mason Evans, Sharon Glover, Jim Crawford.

10/16: Ed Wilmot, Tully Perry, Phil Stein.

10/23: Chet Walker, Marge Wood, Joe Cina.

10/30: Lois Murch, Toni Romanofski, Joan Hurley.

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