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June 18th

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Issue Home May 23, 2006 Site Home

HEADLINES:
Post 86 Awards Service Plaques
Dairy Princess Says Farewell
Odd Fellows Hall Comes Down
Community Foundation Elects New Directors
Legion Post 86 Hosts Veterans
A Sweet Thank You!
James Banko III Elevated To Rank Of Eagle Scout
Girl Scout Council Honors Volunteers
Alycia Cuevas Gives To Locks Of Love
Waiting For You!
Green Side Up: Tent Caterpillars
Clifford Township History Available
It’s A Girl!
PARSE Update
4-H News North Jackson Ag
Countryside Conservancy Announces 2006 Awards
Clifford Plans Birthday Bash
Partners In The Arts Applications Available

Post 86 Awards Service Plaques

The Susquehanna American Legion Post 86, on Saturday, May 6 with Commander Joe Bucci and Finance Officer Pete Janicelli, serving as Master of Ceremonies, honored several members of the Pot and community for outstanding service to the Post over the past several years. Bucci and Janicelli praised the good deeds of each of the recipients as they were awarded beautiful plaques for their dedication to the Post and community.

Pictured (l-r) are Sandino Battisti an Dominic Battisti, caretakers of Memorial Park who, for years have maintained the “upkeep” of the park located in the Shops Plaza in Susquehanna. They make sure the Service Board is kept in good condition, the grass is cut and, in general, keep it clean all around the Board.

Photo by Joe Bucci

Receiving awards were Dominic Battisti, Sandino Battisti, Donald DeWitt, Frank Holtsmaster, Sharon Glover, Sigrid Reddon, Gus Fabrizi, Ceil Vaccaro and Mike Vaccaro.

Others cited were Charles Callahan, Leon Dubanowitz, Jesse Gow, Jim Sickles, and the board members for their dedication to the Post.

The plaques read:

The American Legion “Certificate of Appreciation”– This certificate of appreciation is gratefully presented in recognition and sincere appreciation of outstanding service and assistance which contributed to the advancement of the American Legion programs and activities dedicated to God and Country. American Legion Post 86, Susquehanna, PA, Dept. of Pennsylvania, May 1, 2006. Attest: Commander, Joseph Bucci; Adjutant, Scott Darling.

As usual, The Knights of Columbus put on a delicious dinner. The tables were adorned with beautiful flower bouquets. Around 35 people attended the function.

This is just one of the programs that the Legion sponsors. They, in a quiet way, contribute to many local organizations such as the fire department, library, churches and many more. They help members in need. This is only part of their “good deeds” throughout the year.

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Dairy Princess Says Farewell

Most Dairy Princesses say they can’t believe a whole year has passed when it is time for them to crown a new girl. It’s true. I can’t believe that I have seen so many places and met so many people in one year. I must say it has certainly been an honor and pleasure. My Mom and Dad played a huge role in my year. I thank them for that. Evie Goff and Mary Puzo, County Committee Co-chairs, have been the real heroes, though. They organized the promotions our court has done. They make our job a reality. I also owe a lot to my four Ambassadors and one Dairy Maid. They put in an incredible amount of time this year.

Susquehanna County Dairy Princess, Amanda Miner says farewell to an exciting year.

I’ve been to many different communities, chasing the dream of a Dairy Princess. It is amazing to see kids’ faces when they get a small glimpse of my crown. They can’t believe that they are looking at or talking to a real princess. I feel like most of my promotions were yesterday. Then, there are some that seem so long ago, because I’ve been so involved in dairy promotion for five years. All of the first four years added together made this year. The last twelve months have been absolutely amazing, and now it’s all coming to an end so quickly.

I especially enjoyed the statewide promotions that I attended. Dairy Princess Seminar was a completely new experience. There were twenty-seven other girls just like me. They all had the same interests and shared a common goal. We want people to understand the farming industry as well as not to take dairy products for granted. After all, dairy products play an enormous role in a healthy lifestyle. The State Dairy Princess Pageant was even more amazing to me. Just having my family there when I walked up on the stage meant a lot. It also meant a lot to see everyone who supported all 28 Dairy Princesses in their individual journeys. I remember looking up to each of the Dairy Princesses that I’ve worked with in the last five years, and anticipating the day I became a Princess myself. Now, I’m sad to leave the position. I could always see the faith in the farmer’s eyes as he talked with me about what I’ve been doing or planning to do.

To the next new dairy court, I say, “Good luck!” Dairy promotion is always a challenge, and you have to make the best of it. I hope to be of assistance to our new Princess and Court.

I know that I will never forget my year as the Susquehanna County Dairy Princess. Nor do I think I’ll have another year like this one. It’s been an amazing experience, and I thank everyone for their support. Twelve months is a long time, but it’s nothing compared to twelve months as a Dairy Princess. Once again, thank you.

I would like to invite everyone to attend the Dairy Princess Pageant that will be held on Friday, May 26, 7:30 p.m. at the Episcopal Church Annex, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets in Montrose. Former Susquehanna County Dairy Princesses will present the evening’s Dairy Princess Pageant program. Scholarship, promotion and scrapbook awards and a special recognition of a dairy farm family will be included in the program, along with comments made by each member of the Dairy Court. Please feel welcome to attend.

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Odd Fellows Hall Comes Down

Taking a bite out of the Odd Fellows Hall in Harford – the 89-year-old Odd Fellows Hall was demolished on May 15, 2006.

Photo by Ken Gallinger

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Community Foundation Elects New Directors

The Community Foundation of Susquehanna and Wyoming Counties has approved the election of five new Directors. The Foundation provides philanthropic leadership for donors wishing to accomplish charitable goals of great importance.

Dr. Arthur W. Sherwood was a family physician in Tunkhannock from 1967 to 1985, and a Senior Executive at Geisinger Health Systems in Danville, PA from 1985-2002. Of his new position on the Board he says, “To do something good close to home is very important.”

Dr. Sherwood resides in Tunkhannock with his wife, Jennifer and enjoys biking and sports, as well as business. He has three adult sons. He is a graduate of Nicholson High School, Wyoming Seminary, Williams College, Stanford University and University of Rochester School of Medicine.

Marguerite B. Cartwright was born and raised in Springville and resides in Tunkhannock. She graduated from Dimock-Springville High School and was employed at Bendix Corporation for several years. She was co-owner of an auto body repair shop and of a garden center.

Ms. Cartwright is a founder of PA Heartland Artists, is founder and President of the Board of Wyoming County Chorale. She has been a choir director and organist for the United Methodist Church, and has sung with a women’s barbershop group in the Florida Keys.

The Business and Professional Club of Tunkhannock has named Ms. Cartwright “2006 Woman of the Year.” She serves on the Board of Directors of Wyoming County Cultural Center/Dietrich Theater and the Public Library Board of Trustees. She says of The Foundation, “This was something I very much believed in and was honored to be asked to join.”

Michael F. Thornton resides in Tunkhannock Township with his wife, Josephine T. Dait and children, James, age 10 and Jacqueline, age 6. He is the principal of Tunkhannock Area High School, former principal of Blue Ridge High School, taught social studies and was dean of students at Elk Lake High School.

Mr. Thornton graduated from Wilkes University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and sociology, and a master’s degree in educational leadership. He is in the doctoral program at Marywood University. Mr. Thornton sees volunteerism as an extension of responsible citizenship, and he believes The Community Foundation is an opportunity to advance worthwhile causes.

Charm Goff Giangrieco was born in Gibson and raised in Harford. She is a graduate of Mountain View High School and has a degree in banking and accounting from Broome County Community College. She currently works in the fiscal department at Trehab. Previously she worked as a licensed investment representative at County National Bank and Commonwealth Bank where she advised clients on investing their money.

Ms. Giangrieco is the wife of attorney Michael John Giangrieco and they have a seven-year old son, John Michael. She is President of the Choconut Valley Elementary PTO. She says of this community, “My roots are here. This is a wonderful place to raise a child, but there needs to be something here for the children of the future.”

Steven Volker was raised in Wyalusing and resides in Tunkhannock with his wife and nine-month old son, Michael. He is a graduate of Wyalusing Valley High School and he has a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana State University in automotive engineering.

Mr. Volker has worked for Ford and General Motors, Nationwide Insurance, and is currently a Communications Consultant for Commonwealth Telephone Company, Epix Internet Services. Mr.Volker’s mentor and grandfather, Jim Rice of Tunkhannock was a committed conservationist who created fifth grade environmental field days for local school children.

Steven Volker hopes to engage his abundant energy to assist with website redevelopment, and to promote local scholarships which Commonwealth Telephone Company has supported.

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Legion Post 86 Hosts Veterans

Veterans from the Wilkes-Barre Medical Center were luncheon guests, on May 12, of the Susquehanna American Legion Post 86. After serving a delicious luncheon, games of chance kept the vets busy.

Pictured (l-r) are Jake Miklosi, Roman Markowsky, Mary Ficarro (Post 86 volunteer), John Marunich, Adolph Siderowicz.

Vets present were David Englert, Ken Christman, John Marunich, Paul Wocniak, Al Sidenwicz, Roman Markowsi, James Walikis, Basil Balikes, Ed Sherman, John Gunsion, John Savitski, Ed Remick, Jake Miklosi, Walter Yaninis, Walter Mason.

Accompanying the vets were Maureen Cooper, Chris Miller, Al Decueor, Julie Artzus, Caroline Dombroski, Bill Bagga.

Local volunteers were Tom Hurley, Mike Vaccaro, Debbie Graves, John Bronchella, Mary Ficarro, Debbie Benson, Candy Kuiper, Bill Jennings and Kevin McKee.

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A Sweet Thank You!

Childcare providers from across Susquehanna County gathered Thursday, May 4 for a sweet thank you. Susquehanna County CARES (Childcare, Agencies, Resources and Educational Services) hosted a “Choctail Hour” as a way to recognize the hard work of those who provide care for our young children. The event was held at the CARES Family Resource Center in Hallstead.

With a theme of chocolate, more than 30 people enjoyed a chocolate tasting complete with chocolate facts, plenty of sweet desserts and music by Mountain Aire Brass. Awards were also presented honoring those who have provided years of service to the care and education of young children.

The “Choctail Hour” recognition event was organized as a part of the national “Child Care Appreciation Day” May 12. Susquehanna County CARES urges parents with children in childcare to show their provider how much they appreciate them.

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James Banko III Elevated To Rank Of Eagle Scout

James Edward Banko III, son of James and Mary Ann Banko, Great Bend, held his Eagle Court of Honor on May 13 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Susquehanna.

Pictured (l-r) are Ron “Skip” Lutz, Scoutmaster, Troop 89; James Edward Banko III, Eagle Scout; Brian Senior, former Scoutmaster, Troop 89.

James started his membership in the scouting program with Pack 91 of Hallstead, a part of the Baden-Powell Council, in 1996. He crossed over to Troop 89 of Great Bend in March, 2000. He earned his Boy Scout and Tenderfoot ranks in 2000, his Second Class and First Class Ranks in 2001, his Star Rank in 2002, and his Life Rank in 2003. James has held various leadership positions within the Trop including Den Chief for Pack 91, First Aid and Orienteering Instructors, Historian, Troop Guide, Patrol Leader for the newly created New Scout Patrol, and is presently serving as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. James has earned 31 merit badges so far and the Bronze Eagle Palm.

His first campout with the troop was a 36-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail with a backpack about as big as he was tall. His other high adventure activities included spelunking, snorkeling, skiing, canoeing, rock climbing, and bicycling. He earned medals hiking the historical trails in Gettysburg and Valley Forge, and attended the World Brotherhood Camporee held in Canada in 2003.

James has climbed 144-foot cliffs to earn special badges in climbing and the Honor Camper Award; he was the first person under the age of 21 to climb the toughest route on the Lindseth Climbing Wall at Cornell University. During summer camp with the Troop, he became a member of the polar bear club, swimming every morning before daily activities.

James is also a member of Venture Crew 75 in Pipersville, PA where he devotes his summers to teaching scouts at Camp Ockanickon Scout Reservation. Over the last three summers, he has helped thousands of scouts during their stay at camp, teaching them skills and knowledge to earn merit badges, and specializing in woodcarving and first aid over the last two summers.

James’ Eagle Service Project was renovation of the interior of St. John’s Church’s cemetery vault.

Note: Mrs. Mary Banko contributed to this article.

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Girl Scout Council Honors Volunteers

Girl Scouts, Scranton Pocono Council recently honored seven volunteers with the Girl Scout Appreciation Pin. Pictured (l-r) are: front – Michelle Ross – Tunkhannock, Theresa Verdon – Madison Township, Beverly Knopick – Montrose; back – Al Vargo – Clarks Summit, Minerva Hosking – Kunkletown, Susan Burke – Clarks Summit. Absent from photo: Colleen Abriel – Pocono Summit. Presented to adult Girl Scouts who have delivered outstanding service to at least one geographic area or program delivery audience, this award recognizes the dedication, commitment and service of Girl Scout volunteers. It truly exemplifies the service by a volunteer that is beyond expectations.

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Alycia Cuevas Gives To Locks Of Love

Pictured above is Alycia Cuevas, who recently donated her hair to the Locks of Love program. Locks of Love is a nonprofit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children suffering long-term medical hair loss.

This was the first haircut for Alycia, who is ten years old. Approximately eighteen and a half inches of hair were taken off by stylist Ann Jones at Lisa Winner’s Beauty Salon in Susquehanna.

Alycia is the daughter of Albert and Michele Cuevas, Susquehanna and granddaughter of Larry and Lorraine Jackson, Lakeland, FL, formerly of Susquehanna.

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Waiting For You!

Hi! I’m Bob! I’m a happy, friendly, six-year old male Collie mix that is good with older kids, housebroken and already neutered. With all this good news, how can you pass me by? Come take a look.

I’ll be waiting for you at the Susquehanna County Humane Society Shelter in Montrose, (570) 278–1228.

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Green Side Up: Tent Caterpillars

I’m sure that this spring you have noticed silk nests in the branch crotches or on the ends of branches, then upon closer examination you find groups of bluish, black, tan, or greenish hairy caterpillars with spots or stripes are feeding in or around the nests. These are tent caterpillars.

Tent caterpillars and Fall Webworms (Malacosoma species and Hyphantria cunea), these insects feed on many fruit and ornamental trees. The fall web-worm and many species of tent caterpillars are plentiful in our area and throughout the United States. In the summer, adult tent caterpillar moths lay masses of eggs in a cementing substance around twigs. The eggs hatch in early spring as the leaves unfold, and the young caterpillars immediately begin to construct their nest. On warm, sunny days, they devour the surrounding foliage. In mid-to-late summer, brownish or reddish adult moths appear. The fall webworm moth lays many eggs on the undersides of leaves in the spring. In the early summer, the young caterpillars begin feeding and surrounding themselves with silk nests. The caterpillars drop to the ground and pupate. Up to four generations occur between June and September.

Solutions vary; if you prefer organic methods, hand picking is the way to go. In the very early spring look for silk nests and with your hands (I always wear gloves) go in and clean out the silk nests, making sure that you completely clean the entire area. This practice will have to be repeated several times. Pruning infested branches and burning the branch with the nest will work. Keeping your soil healthy is a standard practice, the healthier your soil the better it can fight off insect infestations.

If you are not against the use of pesticides which I believe used in moderation is acceptable, spray with Malathion Plus or the bacterial insecticide Bacillus thuringiensis when caterpillars are young. As always, read and follow manufacturer's directions for use of product.

Talk to your neighbors and plan a strategy of attack; if you are the only one working to rid the area of tent caterpillars, you are fighting a losing battle.

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Clifford Township History Available

“Clifford Township: Two Hundred Years,” by Sally Fischbeck and Patricia Peltz is now available. The significance of its subject matter goes beyond the township borders. It is a glimpse into the daily successes and hardships of rural America since the early 1800’s. With over 600 pictures, maps and diagrams packed into its 245 pages, readers may witness the evolution of commerce and farming through the experiences of Clifford residents. See a typical Main Street with its storefronts, dirt roads and horse-drawn buggies survive flood, fires and economic hard times. Because the book is organized by the original 12 school districts, no corner of the township is ignored. See the scenes, activities and faces from the distant and not-so-distant past. Pictures show folks at work and play, at school and church; they touch us with our humanity. Co-author Sally Fischbeck states, “The joy of saving pictorial and oral history of our area continued to motivate me and Pat Peltz during our two-year effort to collect the information and the six months it took us to write the book. We’re proud that this is available for the bicentennial celebration, and pleased that this effort was instrumental in the formation of our township’s new historical society.”

The book is available at Clifford Supply and The Endless Mountains Pharmacy in Clifford, or through www.cliffordpa.com.

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It’s A Girl!

A daughter was born to Amanda and Mark Hendrickson, Oakland, PA. Grace Ann Hendrickson arrived on Thursday, May 18, 2006 at 3:16 p.m., weighing 8 pounds 3 ounces and 20 1/2 inches in length.

Maternal Grandparents are Stacie and Jess Hilton, Lanesboro, PA.

Paternal Grandparents are Rose and John Hendrickson of Susquehanna, PA.

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PARSE Update

The Pennsylvania Association of Retired State Employees (PARSE) met at the Lutheran Church in Dushore on May 9, with a fine dinner catered by the ladies of the church.

Legislative Chairman Jesse Bacon stated that there has been no action taken in the Legislature for an annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) for state retirees, and probably will not be until the Legislature is back in session.

Membership Chairman Helen Benio stated that she is still taking new memberships and renewals. As there have been many new retirements in the last few years, it is urged that members talk to other retirees about joining the organization. New members or renewals may contact Mrs. Benio at RR 1 Box 188, Montrose, PA 18801.

There will be an election of officers this year and Secretary Sims suggested that persons who would like to become officers should contact their county vice presidents to let them know.

The next meeting will be held at the Towanda Gun Club on June 6. Please note that this is the first Tuesday of the month rather than the second Tuesday, which is the regular meeting day. For more information or to make reservations contact Susquehanna County Vice President John Benio, 278–2380.

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4-H News North Jackson Ag

North Jackson Ag 4-H club recently held their second meeting at Pavelski’s farm in Jackson. Beth Giangrieco called the meeting to order at around 7:15. Kaitlin Flor led the club in the American pledge and Tim Carey led the club in the 4-H pledge. Then Beth summarized the events and issues discussed at the last meeting. Since the club treasurer wasn’t able to make it, Beth read the treasurer’s report as well. Megan Carey made a few announcements concerning the horse club and its members. Sandy Pavelski reminded club members that enrollment forms for the 4-H year needed to be handed in ASAP. The club’s candy sale was nearing the end and candy money was expected to be handed in soon. Beth informed the club of new business. The club members were asked to bring baked goods to sell at the dairy sale and to help work the concession stand if they were able to. All club members that did not receive their project books for the upcoming year need to get in touch with Bonnie or Sandy. Tara Flor told the club about “garbage clean- up” in Susquehanna on April 15 for anyone interested in getting a head start on their community service hours. The club got together on May 6 and went bowling together and held a meeting afterwards. Some members volunteered to bring refreshments and give presentations at the next meeting.

News Reporter: Kaitlin Flor

Tin Can Shooters

In Tin Can Shooters 4-H Club, I am learning to shoot pump action air rifles. This is my second year of shooting air rifles. I am learning the proper way to handle the gun. In this process I am learning the parts of the gun and how they work together to make the gun shoot. I have shot at balloons, candles, and paper targets. The paper targets are used for competition to see who gets the best score. I learned that you can shoot the flame out on a candle. I have learned to use my dominant eye for the most accurate shooting. I have learned the many positions for shooting. They include the prone, standing, and kneeling positions. Most importantly, I have learned that if you follow the safety and range rules you are less likely to have a shooting accident.

News Reporter: Devon Zona

DES Club

The DES 4-H Club recently held a meeting. President Tom Greenwood called the meeting to order. The pledges were recited. Secretary, Alyssa Sprout took roll and read the minutes from the last meeting. Treasurer, Renee Chilson gave the treasurer’s report. Preston Sprout then gave us an update on the sub sale. All of the tickets have been sold and we raised $300.00 for our club. Mrs. Mattocks will be starting cake decorating soon. Club leader LouAnn Kiefer talked about teen council. The club voted to go to Knoebel’s amusement park for our summer field trip. New books were handed out. We will be cleaning up around the church and doing some painting for a community service project.

Alyssa Sprout did a demonstration about proper fire gear that firefighters wear and Jenna Sprout demonstrated how to use an air pack for firefighting. Kennidy Finch and Sam Mattocks demonstrated how to make krispy rice treats. Steven Rezykowski taught us how to tie different fishing knots and showed us some different lures and fishing tackle. Allison Kiefer showed us how to plant flower seeds.

Demonstrations at our next meeting will be done by Morgan Williams-Clark, Christian and Rachel Sprout, Mike and Tom Greenwood, Luke Jones and Emily Kasson. Callie Curley will provide the refreshments for next meeting.

News Reporter: Allison Kiefer

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Countryside Conservancy Announces 2006 Awards

The Countryside Conservancy announced the winners of its 2006 Stewardship Awards at its Annual Meeting on April 26 at Keystone College. Nine property owners in our region were recognized as outstanding stewards of their farms, homes, buildings and lands at this year’s awards.

Awards for working farms were given to Mary and John Parks for their Bel Park dairy farm on Route 171, overlooking the river in Great Bend; and to the seventh-generation Brace’s Orchard in Luzerne County.

Susquehanna County garnered several awards for residential properties. Among the winners were Ron and Christina Boyd for their home surrounded by beautiful stone walls in Gibson Township; Mario and Dorothy Fitzgerald for their home in Thompson; and Mary and James Ketterer for their home at Beaver Meadow Farm in Harford Township. Also honored were Maureen and John Walker for their home “Glenverly” in Waverly, Lackawanna County.

Special-use awards went to Jordan Taylor, Mariana Garrettson, Laurie Graham and Larry Wilson of Stony Meadow Pottery in Clifford Township; to the Harford Fair Committee for their handsome new Waterfowl House at the fairgrounds; and to the Endless Mountains Council of the Arts for their exhibition space in a restored Victorian home in Tunkhannock.

The Conservancy thanks all the award winners, whose achievements are manifest in the beauty of what they care for. As the award recipients spoke from the podium, simply and from the heart, each told the same story in different words: “We all care about the same thing. We do this purely for the love of our land.”

All award winners received certificates of appreciation, framed photographs of their properties, and a one-year membership in the Conservancy

The Stewardship Awards were instituted ten years ago to express the Conservancy's appreciation for the efforts of good stewards of the land. The Countryside Conservancy conserves lands and water in and near the Tunkhannock Creek watershed for the public benefit now, and for the future. It is part of its mission to recognize and thank land owners and stewards who maintain their properties with respect for the land's conservation and cultural values and thereby bring pleasure to the public.

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Clifford Plans Birthday Bash

Clifford Township, a resort community nestled in the hills near Elk Mountain, will be celebrating its 200th birthday with a three-day trip down Memory Lane. All of the different civic, social and religious groups in the community have worked together to present a first-class event aimed at historic preservation and family fun.

On Friday, June 30 at 6:30 p.m. the celebration will start with a square dance and barbecue at the Clifford Township Fire Hall. You will have the time of your life dancing with Terry Rockwell’s expert musical presentation and enjoying an old-fashioned country buffet.

Don’t worry if you don’t know how to square dance. Terry will kindly provide instruction for those who are clueless and will add cha-cha, twist, polka and other dances. Call Vicky Lewandowski at 222–3596 for information or tickets.

On Saturday, July 1, the day begins at 11 a.m. on Main Street, with a parade. Jerry Verboys, Parade Co-Chairman, says, “This will be like something seen a century ago. It’s taken me and Harry Phillips nine months to put this together. We’ll have antiques (cars, tractors, fire trucks and motorcycles), three bands, floats, mounted police and two Civil War troops.”

The parade ends at the fairgrounds. There, the Historical Society has put together top-quality exhibits in individual booths to be viewed both Saturday, July 1 and Sunday, July 2. These will highlight schools, churches, farming, geology, forestry, barn architecture, the fire department and early pioneer life. Each booth will be filled with photographs, artifacts, hands-on exhibits and knowledgeable people eager to answer questions. “These booths will act as gathering places for our esteemed elders to share their stories and memories of a different era,” according to Sally Fischbeck. She and Pat Peltz have co-authored “Clifford Township: Two Hundred Years.” Their two-year effort resulted in a 245-page book with 600 pictures, maps and diagrams with supporting text, with glimpses into the daily successes and hardship of rural America since the early 1800’s.

There are two special performances scheduled for Saturday, July 1, only. First, the acclaimed Birbaums will be strolling the fairgrounds from 1 p.m. on, teaching young and young at heart the old-time fiddle music they learned from world famous champion fiddlers Jehile Kirkhuff. Secondly, at 3 p.m. Ed McMullen, a local historian will perform a theatrical demonstration of early pioneer life.

Complimenting the historical mood will be a Civil War encampment, antique carriage display and musical entertainment by the Mountain View Jazz Band, Fife and Drum Corps, Barney Wilkins’ Penn Dixie Band and the Lenoxville Band. Rounding out the two-day schedule are horseshoe demonstrations, artisans and vendors, surrey rides, and food stands manned by different church groups.

Sunday, July 2, starts with a firemen’s breakfast from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Fire Hall. At 9 a.m. there is a sign-in for a motorcycle ride scheduled from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., which ends at the Clifford Township Building in time for the 1 p.m. Veterans’ Memorial Dedication. Jack Tellep, himself a disabled war veteran, has worked tirelessly to coordinate the design, construction, landscaping and funding of this memorial. He feels that the dedication “is an excellent introduction (for our children) to our region’s legacy of sacrifice. The lone bugler, the salute of an honor guard and the patriotic music will give the ceremony the sense of respect it deserves.”

There will be many children’s activities at the township building after the dedication including Jo-Jo the Clown, a petting zoo, baseball competitions, Little League food concession and children’s contests. On Sunday at the fairgrounds all the displays remain open with the addition of 3 p.m. contests for the best beards and best pie. The final event of the weekend at the fairgrounds is an antique auction at 4 p.m.

Sandy Wilmot of the Historical Society says, “We wanted to turn back the clock to a different era when people found time to “sit and visit.”

This is but a brief description of the weekend schedule; much more is planned. For more information about events, schedule or location, visit the website www.cliffordpa.com. Because we hope many elderly folks will come to look and reminisce, we will have golf carts for mobility, handicapped accessible facilities, and plenty of seating. Rain or shine, most activities are under roof, and there will be free parking.

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Partners In The Arts Applications Available

The Bradford County Regional Arts Council (BCRAC) is pleased to announce the availability of state arts funds through the Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts Program (PPA), to support arts and cultural activities occurring between September 1, 2006 – August 31, 2007. Funds are available to prior PPA applicants/recipients as well as to new applicants. Grant requests may not exceed $3,000. Applications must be postmarked by June 30, 2006.

BCRAC is one of fourteen regional service providers selected by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA) to administer the PPA Program. BCRAC works in partnership with the PCA to design and create initiatives on a regional level that make a significant impact on arts and cultural opportunities in the Northern Tier counties of Bradford, Columbia, Montour, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga and Wyoming.

For guidelines and application packets, for more information, or to register for a grant writing workshop, contact Brenda S. Thomas at (570) 268-2787.

A workshop is scheduled for Friday, June 16, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (bring a bag lunch) at the Montrose Theater, 18 Public Ave., Montrose, PA. Attendance is free and open to all.

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