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Issue Home December 21, 2004 Site Home

HEADLINES:
A Princess' Update
I'm Still Here For You!
I'm Here For You!
Dog Licenses Are Now On Sale
E-Club Organizes

EMHR Membership Drive Underway
Investment Info At Main Library
Jan. Jurors Drawn
Keep In Touch With Your Elders
"New Opportunities" Abound for Seniors

Extension Offers Program Listing
Turnpike Terrace Senior Update
Waste Reduction Holiday Tips

A Princess' Update

As Dairy Princess I continue to promote dairy products here in Susquehanna County. Recently I did a dairy promotion at Forest City Regional School in Mrs. Erdman’s speech class. During my speech I made butter and talked about how butter is made. I passed out some dairy promotion goodies to the class. I’ve hung posters in classrooms and in the hallways at the Forest City Regional High School promoting dairy.

Susquehanna County Dairy Princess, Amanda Zembrzycki is surrounded by Dairy Ambassadors: Karin Mowry, Ashley Franklin and Karly Mosier.

Ambassador Karley Mosier and I served ice cream to over 540 people at the Johnny Brook’s benefit. Johnny Brooks lives on a dairy farm, is a 4-H member, a student at Elk Lake School and was seriously injured in a farm accident this past summer.

Karley and I gave speeches at the Susquehanna County Conservation District’s annual meeting. Ambassador Karin Mowry joined Karley and I to serve orange milk punch at the meeting.

Dairy Princesses from around the state put together a dairy recipe book each year. If you would like a copy of the State Princesses’ recipe book you can call Evie Goff at the Extension Office (278-1158).

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I'm Still Here For You!

Yes, Jack’s still here and he’s been here much too long! This beautiful, black and tan, one-year old male German shepherd is afraid that no one will ever take him home. He’s even housebroken! Won’t you give him a chance? The shelter is also overflowing with other wonderful dogs, small, medium and large and cuddly, lovable cats and kittens. Please don’t pass them by! They’ll be waiting for you at the Susquehanna County Humane Society Shelter, in Montrose, (570) 278–1228.

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I'm Here For You!

This is Katie! She is an elegant, active 1-2 year old black Lab mix. This sweet girl loves everyone, is housebroken and knows how to sit. She will need an active person or family that loves to run and play. Since she’s been cooped up for awhile, she will need a walk to calm her down. Please give her a chance! She’ll be waiting for you at the Susquehanna County Humane Society Shelter, in Montrose, (570) 278–1228.

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Dog Licenses Are Now On Sale

Susquehanna County Treasurer, Cathy Benedict, announces that 2005 Dog Tags are now available in the treasurer's office.

In a combined effort with the Department of Agriculture our office is mailing applications for 2005 dog licenses to residents of the county. If you receive one and don't have a dog, please pass it on to someone else. If you don't receive one in the mail, applications are available at www.susqco.com on the Treasurer's page, at the county courthouse in the treasurer's office or at any our sub-agent. If you have already purchased your 2005 license disregard the mailing.

Prices are the same as last year, $8 for regular, $6 for spayed or neutered, $6 for senior citizen regular and $4 for Senior spayed or neutered.

Dog licenses must be purchased by January 1 of each year for all dogs three months and older. Licenses are only good for the county in which the dog resides.

You must be 65 to qualify for the senior citizen discount. You must have proof of a disability to qualify for a disability discount - such as an SSDI card. For the convenience of the citizens of Susquehanna County they have set up the following sub-agents who sell dog licenses around the county until July 1: The Village Hardware, Forest City; Clifford Beverage, Clifford; Elk Trails Veterinary Clinic, Clifford; Hallstead Electronic Supply & Radio Shack; Hallstead; Hirsch's Farm & Home Supply, New Milford; Felix's Hardware, Montrose; Montrose Sporting Goods, Montrose; Elk Lake Filling Station, Dimock; Susquehanna County Humane Society, Montrose; Finch Hill Veterinary Clinic, Greenfield Township (Lackawanna County).

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E-Club Organizes

Members of the Susquehanna County Entrepreneurs Club met recently to plan their activities for 2005. Members agreed to continue to meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Each meeting will feature a business topic presented by a guest speaker and a member will also present their business. The group also discussed networking with the E-Clubs developing in the Scranton area and talked about activities the club could do to promote the businesses of members.

Donna Goff presented information on her business, Mountain Aire Cottage Care.

The E-Club provides members an opportunity to learn from each other as they grow their business. New members are always welcome. To learn more about the E-Club, contact the Susquehanna County Department of Economic Development at (570) 278-4600, ext. 558.

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EMHR Membership Drive Underway

TOWANDA - Endless Mountains Heritage Region Inc. (EMHR) is currently accepting membership renewals and new members for 2005.

Since its formation six years ago EMHR has funded over 60 projects with partner organizations throughout the Endless Mountains Region. Some grants helped renovate historic buildings and improve museum exhibits. Planning grants allowed organizations to identify, prioritize and plan future projects and improve organizational development. To be approved, projects must be oriented to increasing the quality of life for residents and attracting visitor interest. Projects must also fall within goals outlined in EMHR's Management Action Plan.

EMHR is one of 12 State Heritage Parks administered by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. State Heritage Parks are large geographic regions or corridors in the Commonwealth spanning two or more counties. EMHR includes Bradford, Sullivan, Wyoming and Susquehanna counties whose residents share a common heritage, a distinct rural, agrarian character, and have made a unique contribution to the state's culture and history.

Memberships are available for individuals, families, business and industry, municipalities and non-profit organizations. EMHR members receive a quarterly newsletter centered on regional activities and projects, invitations to special workshops, seminars and events, and may vote at the annual meeting held each September.

Membership funds allow EMHR to promote and support a variety of activities and projects throughout the Endless Mountains. A strong regional membership base is necessary for the organization to continue to grow, prosper, and expand services.

The money funneled into the four-county region through EMHR grants to non-profits and municipalities supports improved services, recreational opportunities and helps preserve the quality of life Endless Mountains Region residents expect.

"We are always ready and willing to answer questions. Please feel free to call the office if there is something we can help you with," said EMHR Executive Director Bob Veleker.

EMHR is a 501c3 non-profit organization and also welcomes donations. For more information contact Endless Mountains Heritage Region at (570) 265-1528.

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Investment Info At Main Library

Did you know that the Value Line Investment Survey, the most respected stock analysis tool available, can be consulted for free at the Main Library in Montrose? It's donated to the Susquehanna County Historical Society & Free Library Association by Bartron-Myer Funeral Home. This generous, ongoing gift (updated weekly) lists detailed investment advice for over 1700 publicly-traded stocks, as well as "Selection and Opinion" essays on how to invest.

The Wall Street Journal, a subscription which had to be canceled due to the reduction in state funding, will be arriving daily once again starting on January 3. This is a generous donation by Bill and Brenna Aileo. Simply stop by the Library to consult today's paper, which joins the New York Times, the Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin, Scranton Times/Tribune, and other local papers (including the 3 county weeklies).

"We are very grateful to our generous donors, who help us make these kinds of materials available to the public," says Administrator/Librarian Susan Stone.

The Association's Membership Drive is still open, with a target of one thousand members. Forms are available at the county libraries or at www.susqcolibrary.org.

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Jan. Jurors Drawn

Following is the list of names drawn to serve as Petit and Traverse jurors for January, 2005 to appear in the court of Common Pleas, Susquehanna County Courthouse main courtroom, Montrose, PA on the fourth day of January, 9:00 a.m.

Ararat Twp.: Eugene Price, Dennis Stedenfeld, David Taylor.

Auburn Twp.: Elaine LaFrance, George L. Laird, Cheri Stone.

Bridgewater Twp.: Walter Frystak, Jr., Julie Goff.

Brooklyn Twp.: Dean Austin.

Choconut Twp.: Carol M. Fredendall, Elizabeth Ann Pencek.

Clifford Twp.: Thomas G. Connor, Amy Marie Desko, Randy S. Ransom, Linda Williams.

Dimock Twp.: Lawrence R. Lyons.

Forest City Boro 2W: Christopher J. Kuruts, Mary Mathena.

Forest Lake Twp.: Ed Demarest, Jr., Barbara E. Holbert, Joanne P. Reynolds, Janae Smith, Wallace A. Stewart, Sr., Mary Wood.

Franklin Twp.: William M. Michael, Linda R. Warner.

Friendsville Boro: Edward J. Kika.

Gibson Twp.: Doyal J. Canfield, Tracy K. Tellep.

Great Bend Twp.: Coleen A. Colton, Timothy O’Neill, Joy D. Powell, Michele R. Suchnick, Rebecca White.

Harford Twp.: Stephen G. Pennay, Darlene Pfeister.

Jackson Twp.: Todd Molitor.

Jessup Twp.: Jared Bennett, Edward A. Herman.

Lathrop Twp.: Marie L. Himka, Laura Ofier.

Lenox Twp.: Ursula Belivakici.

Liberty Twp.: Leroy C. Campbell, Jr., Lewis K. Garner, Rebecca L. Naylor.

Montrose Boro 1W: Mary Blachek, Donald Finnegan, Dale H. F. Harder.

Montrose Boro 2W: William Henry.

New Milford Boro: Francis H. Fleming.

New Milford Twp.: Dorothea A. Anderson, Richard E. Glover, Marilyn A. Hughes, Lynn D. Stiles.

Oakland Boro: Timothy K. Roe.

Rush Twp.: Steven Blom, Brian J. Newhart.

Silver Lake Twp.: Stanley A. Anderson, Jr., Jamie L. Bullins, Brian J. Gardner, Brenda M. Turner.

Susquehanna Boro 2W: Thomas J. Fletcher, Randy W. Shimer.

Union Dale Boro: Thomas W. Yale.

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Keep In Touch With Your Elders

Washington, DC – As the holidays approach and families reflect on 2004 – a year in which thousands of Americans from coast to coast experienced natural disasters – the Eldercare Locator is encouraging families to spend some Holiday time mapping out a plan that will keep their older relatives safe when disaster and personal crisis strikes.

The Eldercare Locator, a nationwide service that links older consumers and their families to local aging services, has released an action plan, “In Touch” to help families establish a strategy to assist older relatives in emergency situations. Families across the country are encouraged to take the opportunity this holiday season to establish a family plan with older loved ones to stay “In Touch” during disasters and emergency situations.

Disaster and emergency situations can strike quickly and without warning, forcing immediate evacuations or even confining Seniors to their homes. Families can cope with emergencies by preparing in advance for the worst-case scenarios.

“Older persons are very resilient, but they may need special help to overcome the adversities of disastrous events,” said Josefina G. Carbonell, Assistant Secretary for Aging at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “An emergency preparedness plan is a must for all families and this “In Touch” plan addresses the special needs of older loved ones before a crisis occurs. I urge you to work with your local Area Agency on Aging to identify ways to keep your older relatives safe all year round, not just in an emergency.”

For a free copy of the Eldercare Locator’s “In Touch” Planning Guide, or for information about resources of help available to Seniors age 60 or older in Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Tioga Counties, contact the B/S/S/T Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-982-4346.

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"New Opportunities" Abound for Seniors

It has been said that “Knowledge is Power.” Where can Seniors turn for the knowledge that will help them remain active and independent? Where can they be empowered to plan for their future care needs? The answer to both questions is “The B/S/S/T Area Agency on Aging.”

Bill Farley, Executive Director, says, “The Area Agency on Aging is a resource of help for older citizens and their families residing in the counties of Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Tioga. One of our primary goals is to meet the needs of those who may lack other sources of help. We also want to let people know that there are new opportunities for older citizens to stay at home.”

With the motto, “Serving Our Neighborhood of Seniors,” the Area Agency On Aging is getting the word out to the general public about resources of help for older citizens of all income levels. Caring professionals called “Care Managers” are available to visit older citizens in their homes and talk to them about special programs and other resources to meet individual needs. Care Management Services are provided free of charge.

Several specialized programs are tailored to meet the needs of citizens age 60 or older who need a helping hand. In-Home Services like Home-Delivered Meals, Personal Care and Emergency Response Systems often enable older individuals to remain at home. Depending on the income level of the individual, there may be no fee or there may be cost-sharing for a portion of some in-home services. Some with more financial resources may opt to “private pay” for in-home services.

Those caring for an elderly loved one or for an individual under the age of 60 who suffers with Dementia, may find that the Family Caregiver Support Program is just what they need. Income-eligible caregivers may receive up to $500.00 a month to pay for care-giving expenses, like private hire assistance and care-giving supplies. They may also to receive a one-time grant of up to $2,000 for home adaptations, like bathroom modifications which will help enable their loved one to remain at home.

Many older citizens with a monthly income of $1692 and financial resources of $8,000 or less, may qualify for the Waiver Program which offers another alternative to receiving care in a nursing home setting. There are no fees for the Waiver Program. In-Home Services are provided and a Medical Assistance Access card helps with prescription costs. Many individuals receive modifications to the home, like wheelchair ramps or modifications to the bathroom to make the home safer.

For those age 60 or older who need nursing home care and who have “some money in the bank” (up to $40,000 in financial resources and a monthly income of $1692 or less), the Bridge Program may help them remain at home. A variety of in-home services may be provided, with affordable cost-sharing by the individual.

It’s true that the Area Agency on Aging helps Seniors, but, equally as important, Seniors help the Area Agency on Aging. Seniors are the bedrock of the Area Agency on Aging’s large volunteer program which makes the agency’s services possible. These special people deliver hot, nutritious meals to homebound individuals, help in the Senior Community Centers, visit older citizens in their homes, help with organizing medical bills and statements, visit residents in long term care facilities, and serve as mentors for children with exceptional needs.

Senior Community Centers, located throughout the four county area help seniors stay active and healthy. Programs like Peppi, a low resistance exercise program, yoga classes, and “senior night out,” a fun gathering and delicious meal, are among the many activities offered. PrimeTime Health, health and wellness programs featured at different locations in the community, helps seniors learn about what they can do to stay healthy.

Information about Medicare and Medigap health insurance options and help with medical billing concerns is available to Seniors through the APPRISE Program. For those income-eligible individuals age 55 and older seeking employment, Experience Works provides training and job placement services.

For more information about resources of help for citizens age 60 or older or to ask about Volunteer opportunities with the Area Agency on Aging, call 1-800-982-4346.

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Extension Offers Program Listing

Penn State Cooperative Extension in Susquehanna County has a listing for educational programs and meetings that covers key areas such as: agronomic crops, economic and community development, fruits & vegetables, forestry, livestock, dairy, farm management, natural resources and ornamentals. If you are interested, give them a call at 278-1158 to request the listing.

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Turnpike Terrace Senior Update

Greetings, from Turnpike Terrace for December!

A Christmas concert was held here on December 11, given by Robin Hobbs and friends. We had a full house that night. It was a lot of fun. We had a sing-along with them also. Refreshments were served afterwards. Thank you, Robin, Frank and all the rest.

Elfrieda Lee won the Christmas tree that was donated by Mary and Mike Ryder.

Our Christmas party was set for December 18, with Santa planned to come see us. We’ve all been good this year!

We made nearly 100 felt snowmen to hand out at the tree lighting in town for the kids; hope they enjoy them.

Our hallways have been painted, in new bright colors with a lot of comments on them. Doors are hung in Christmas decor, and each floor has its own tree, decorated by the tenants here; really nice to see.

We all wish everyone a Merry Christmas!

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Waste Reduction Holiday Tips

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Americans throw away 25 percent more trash between Thanksgiving and the New Year than during any other time of the year. The extra waste amounts to 25 million tons.

There are simple steps you can take to reduce the amount of waste generated during this holiday season. When gift giving, purchase gift certificates, donate to a charity, or give a “family gift” in lieu of individual gifts. Other gift ideas include: compost bins, plants, gardening tools and books, a membership to a local environmental organization, battery chargers, homemade crafts, or transit passes.

Before making a purchase consider the following questions: How will this item and its packaging affect the environment? Can I buy it used? Borrow it? Rent it? Share the purchase? When wrapping or packaging your gifts try the these original ideas: newspaper cartons, posters, grocery bags, scarves, cloth napkins, unbuttered popcorn, newspaper, or clothes. If you buy wrapping paper look for recycled content paper (the higher the post-consumer recycled content, the better). When sending holiday cards try e-mail cards or send a reusable “pass along” card by writing your message on an insert instead of on the card.

And after the holidays are over you can further reduce the amount of waste generated by: planting or donating live trees and recycled cut trees; donating unwanted gifts and food to thrifts stores and food banks; composting veggie and fruit trimmings; recycling all your holiday leftovers: packaging, wrapping paper, bottles, cans, etc.

For information on recycling, call the Susquehanna County Recycling Center, 278-3589 or visit the center, located at 5 Ellsworth Drive, S. Montrose.

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