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All “A Buzz” At Garden Event Arlo’s Country Store was ‘a buzz’ on Saturday, September 5 for the Pollinator Garden Event hosted by the Penn State Master Gardeners of Susquehanna County. The fun-filled community event featured educational research games for children, a live bee demonstration and ice cream as well as information on pollinators and the pollinator garden.
Pictured above (l-r): Robert and Rohan Hertzog of Forest City took part in garden research by counting pollinators at the Penn State Master Gardener’s Pollinator Garden Event. Penn State was awarded a grant from Haagen-Dazs for research and education on honey bees and other pollinators. The Penn State Master Gardeners in Susquehanna County have received funding under the grant to establish the pollinator garden. Master Gardeners have planted additional varieties of pollinator-friendly plants at Arlo’s for the purpose of public education and gathering data for the pollinator research program. With recent concerns over the colony collapse disorder with honeybees, Haagen-Dazs has made a concentrated effort to help fund projects such as the Penn State Master Gardener pollinator-friendly garden. For more information on Colony Collapse Disorder visit: http://www.ento.psu.edu/MAAREC/ColonyCollapseDisorder.html. Honeybees and other pollinators are very important for a healthy food cycle. Through pollination, honey bees are responsible for 1/3 of our food supply.
Local Youth Meet Charlie Daniels Band
Cayli J. Allen, Reese Allen and Sienna Kowalewski were special guests of The Charlie Daniels Band at the Harford Fair on August 20. They were welcomed on the tour bus, met Charlie Daniels and given passes for the show. They had a great time - one they will never forget! Cayli and Reese are the daughters of Stefanie and Bill Allen, and Sienna is the daughter of Don and Nickie Kowalewski.
Health Clinic Awarded Grant The Dental Unit at the Family Health Clinic of Barnes-Kasson Hospital was recently awarded a Community Primary Care Challenge Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The basis of this grant is to help the Family Health Clinic expand its dental services in order to better serve the increasing demand for dental care in the Greater Susquehanna County service area. The Community Primary Care Challenge Grant will assist the Family Health Clinic’s dental unit with the costs associated with additions to the payroll, supplies, and equipment for the new unit. It covers a two year period, and has a value of $200,000. The grant application was written by David Passetti, Clinic Administrator for the Family Heath Clinic of Barnes-Kasson Hospital. Initial plans are for an immediate addition of staff, including a second full time dental hygienist and an additional dental assistant, expansion of hours, addition of dental chairs from which to operate, and eventually, construction of a new dental unit with all new equipment. According to Passetti, “current physical space is a hindrance to any expansion. The preliminary additions will allow us to expand the number of patients we serve and help us bridge the gap to our new dental unit, which should be up and running by the end of next summer. Our unit has the only dental providers in the county serving medical assistance recipients, and our schedule (especially for routine cleanings and check-ups) has become saturated. This, along with taking dental emergencies, can make it difficult to get an appointment in a timely fashion. Our ultimate goals are to modernize our equipment, adequately staff the unit, and streamline our entire operation to be more efficient, all to be able to better serve our very large dental patient base as well as to accommodate those lacking dental care now.”
Club Recognizes Baldwin Family
Members of the Borderline 4-H Club presented a plaque to Pat Baldwin and Brenda Demarest at the 2009 Susquehanna County 4-H Livestock Sale in memory of Paul Baldwin, owner of Wyalusing Livestock Auction Market. Mr. Baldwin passed away this spring, and was a huge supporter of the Susquehanna County 4-H Livestock Program and their 4-H Club. A memorial garden in Mr. Baldwin’s honor was also made at the Harford Fairgrounds located between the cattle arena and pig barn for his years of dedication to the livestock industry and 4-H program.
Fire Companies Receive Pet Oxygen Masks The Susquehanna County Animal Response Team recently held its first “No Animal Left Behind” Walk-a-thon on Sunday September 13 on the rail trail behind the Pump n’ Pantry in Montrose. Prior to the walk sets of three pet oxygen masks of various sizes were donated to the Montrose, Thompson and Forrest Lake Fire Companies. Susquehanna CART had partnered with a company called Wag’N which helped ascertain funding for the masks. Wag’N is a company who is committed to “Pet Emergency Management and Preparedness for People and Pets.” It is hoped that this mask donation process will continue so that all first responders can be equipped with the pet oxygen masks. The “No Animal Left Behind” Walk-a-thon was successful and all participants enjoyed themselves. The walk will be an annual event and will hopefully grow each year. The Susquehanna CART would like to extend a thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored and supported the event.
Susky Couple Celebrates Golden Anniversary
Chuck and Linda Glidden were married on September 19, 1959 in the Moravian Church of Emmaus, Pennsylvania. They recently celebrated their golden anniversary at a family dinner hosted by their children at the Candlelight Inn.
Dairy Exhibitors Shine At Dairy Roundup One hundred five head of dairy cattle paraded the show ring in Harford at the annual Susquehanna County 4-H Dairy Roundup on Saturday, August 1. The Susquehanna County 4-H Dairy Program is comprised of fifty-nine 4-H members that represent six 4-H clubs in Susquehanna County including: Born To Show 4-H Dairy Club, Delmonicos 4-H Club, Deckertown Community 4-H Club, DES 4-H Club, Elk Mountain Community 4-H Club, and North Jackson Ag and Community 4-H Club. Eric Giangrieco of New Milford and Amos Lyon from Hallstead took home the top honors of the day in the type show judged by Bryant Hlavaty of Manheim. Eric’s five-year old Holstein cow, JoSan Lartist Paige, earned top honors in the 4-H Holstein Show. Lyon Farms Advent Susannah-Red, a four year old Red and White owned by Amos Lyon topped the Red and White Show and also became the 4-H Grand Champion Colored Breed. The Reserve Grand Champion Holstein was exhibited by Evan Castrogiovanni of Montrose with his senior two-year old cow, Castlemont Dundee Betsy. The Reserve Grand Champion Colored Breed, and Senior Champion Jersey, was exhibited by Jenna Sprout from Montrose with her junior three year old dry cow, JBS Pasleys Prada. Other results of the 4-H type show are as follows: 4-H Holstein Show: Junior Champion, Misty-Crest Calypso Flo owned by Steven Rezykowski, Dimock; Reserve Junior Champion, Kozy-Kountry Velvet Sassy exhibited by Sabrina Clark, Springville; Senior Champion, JoSan Lartist Paige, 5-year old exhibited by Eric Giangrieco, New Milford; Reserve Senior Champion, Castlemont Dundee Betsy, Sr. 2-year old shown by Evan Castrogiovanni, Montrose; Overall Grand Champion Holstein, JoSan Lartist Paige exhibited by Eric Giangrieco, New Milford; Overall Reserve Grand Champion Holstein, Castlemont Dundee Betsy, Sr. 2-year old shown by Evan Castrogiovanni, Montrose. 4-H Ayrshire Show: Junior Champion, Kozy Kountry Juliet, winter calf bred and owned by Cassie Clark, Springville; Reserve Junior Champion, Kozy Kountry Jonica, fall yearling bred and owned by Cassie Clark, Springville; Senior Champion, RA Dream Victor Babe, 6-year old cow owned by Emily Adams, Montrose; Reserve Senior Champion, Out-Again Soldiers Lola, Jr. 2-year old owned by Kennidy Finch, Springville. 4-H Brown Swiss Show: Junior Champion, CIE Fieldsbrook Bur Rozlyn, fall calf bred and owned by Brandon Loch, Nicholson; Reserve Junior Champion, Top Acres Starsky Bella-ET, spring yearling exhibited by Taylar Sherman, Springville. 4-H Guernsey Show: Junior Champion, Friendly Manor Sunray Nette, winter calf owned by Amos Lyon, Hallstead. 4-H Jersey Show: Junior Champion, Pallace Dustin Pepsi, fall calf owned by Christian Sprout, Montrose; Reserve Junior Champion, JoSan Comerica Jasmine, winter calf exhibited by Jamie Supancik, New Milford; Senior Champion, JBS Pasleys Prada, dry cow bred and owned by Jenna Sprout, Montrose; Reserve Senior Champion, CS Pandas Pumpkin-ET, Sr. 2-year old owned by Christian Sprout, Montrose. 4-H Milking Shorthorn Show: Junior Champion, Jon-Ann Ruben Rosepetal EXP-ET, spring yearling bred and owned by Alex Bonavita, Meshoppen; Reserve Junior Champion, Jon-Ann Red Ruben Rosaffer EXP, winter yearling bred and owned by Alex Bonavita, Meshoppen; Senior Champion, Jon-Ann Famous Rosetta-ET, Jr. 2-year old bred and owned by Alex Bonavita, Meshoppen. 4-H Red and White Show: Junior Champion, Tauzel Advent Safara-Red, spring calf owned by Dana Nunemacher, Montrose; Reserve Junior Champion, Castlemont Jazzy Red-ET, winter calf bred and owned by Evan Castrogiovanni, Montrose; Senior Champion, Lyon Farm Advent Susannah-Red, 4-year old owned by Amos Lyon, Montrose; Reserve Senior Champion, Goff-Farms BCLM Sunbeam-Red, sr. 3-year old owned by Abbey Puzo, Montrose; Overall Colored Breed Grand Champion, Lyon Farm Advent Susannah-Red, 4-year old owned by Amos Lyon, Montrose; Overall Colored Breed Reserve Grand Champion, JBS Paisleys Prada, Jr. 3-year old dry cow bred and owned by Jenna Sprout, Montrose. In the Owner Breeder Competition, Sabrina Clark was the winner of the Holstein Owner Breeder Award with her summer yearling heifer, Kozy-Kountry Velvet Sassy. Jenna Sprout was the winner of the Champion Owner Breeder Colored Breed Award and Overall Owner Breeder Award with her Jersey Cow, JBS Pasleys Prada. The Owner Breeder Competition recognizes the animal that ranks highest in type that is bred and owned by the same 4-H member. Charlene Barlieb, Centre Hall, PA judged the Master Exhibitor Competition. In the Master Exhibitor Competition members are judged seventy-five percent on their showmanship talents and twenty-five percent on the fitting and cleanliness of their animal. In the senior division Jenna Sprout, Montrose was named Champion Master Exhibitor followed by Stephanie Snyder, Greenfield Twp. for Reserve Champion. In the junior division Cassie Clark, Springville was named Champion Master Exhibitor followed by Trevor Tompkins, Montrose with the Reserve Champion. Jenna Spout and Cassie Clark were both named the winners of the Dave Quick Memorial Award.
The Montrose Chapter and Anna Stickney Chapter, North Conway, New Hampshire, of Daughters of the American Revolution joined to honor a Real Daughter on August 12 at the Lynn Cemetery. Joan E. Davies, treasurer of the Anna Stickney Chapter, and her husband, Philip Avery Davies, had the plaque made for his relative, Harriet M. Chamberlain Avery. Marleta Shaduck, Regent and Nan Baker, Registrar of the Montrose Chapter joined Mr. and Mrs. Davies for the dedication in the name of both chapters.
Pictured (l-r), Marleta Shaduck, Nan Baker - Montrose Chapter DAR, Philip Davies and Joan Davies - Anna Stickney Chapter DAR are shown standing by the tombstone of Harriet M. Chamberlain Avery with the new plaque honoring her as a Real Daughter NSDAR. Harriet M. Chamberlain Avery was a Real Daughter. The National Society DAR is currently on a campaign to locate the gravesites of all the women who were the original Daughters of the American Revolution; Susquehanna County has only one. The Montrose Chapter will be placing a bronze DAR marker alongside her stone. Harriet M. Chamberlain Avery was a DAR member-at-large, so unfortunately she was never a member of the Montrose Chapter.
The Montrose Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution held their monthly meeting September 10 at the Montrose VFW Post 5642. With 24 in attendance Regent Marleta Shadduck and Chaplain Beverly Fraser swore in 6 new members bringing the total number of members to 75 for the Montrose Chapter. New members are: Ruth Allard, Hallstead; Lee Peterson, Orange Park, FL; Nannette Pettyjohn, Montrose; Sally Rockwell, Brackney; Kristine Koehler, Bangor, PA; and Lori Webster, Hallstead.
Pictured above (l-r) are: front - Ruth Allard, Lee Peterson, Sally Rockwell, Kristine Koehler, Lori Webster; back - Nannette Pettyjohn. The President General's message was read by Marleta Shadduck. Highlighted was "Constitution Week," September 17-23. By joint resolution of August 2, 1956 (36 U.S.C. 159), the U.S. Congress designated the week beginning September 17 and ending September 23 of each year as "Constitution Week" in recognition of the historic importance of the Constitution and the significant role it plays in our lives today. Mary Ann Cunningham spoke about National Defense. September 11 is now recognized as "Patriot Day," in honor of the individuals who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks against the United States that occurred on September 11, 2001. Marleta spoke about an article titled Real Daughter from the National DAR Spirit Magazine. Original members of the DAR are referred to as Real Daughters. On August 12, the Montrose Chapter and Anna Stickney Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution joined to honor a Real Daughter buried in the Lynn Cemetery. Joan E. Davies, treasurer of the Anna Stickney Chapter, North Conway, New Hampshire and her husband, Philip Avery Davies, had the plaque made for his relative, Harriet M. Chamberlain Avery. Marleta Shaduck, Regent and Nan Baker, Registrar of the Montrose Chapter joined Mr. and Mrs. Davies for the dedication in the name of both chapters. Harriet M. Chamberlain Avery was a Real Daughter. The National Society DAR is currently on a campaign to locate the gravesites of all the women who were the original Daughters of the American Revolution, Susquehanna County has only one. The Montrose Chapter will be placing a bronze DAR marker alongside her stone. The October 8 DAR meeting will highlight "Susquehanna Silhouettes" presented by Betty Smith, Museum Curator, Susquehanna Co. Historical Society. For those interested in learning more about the DAR they make go to the PA State DAR website at www.pssdar.org or contact Registrar Nan Baker at 570-278-3025.
Early Detection Can Save Your Life BUFFALO, NY - September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and the Gilda Radner Familial Ovarian Cancer Registry at Roswell Park Cancer Institute is continuing its search for genetic markers associated with ovarian cancer and investigating better methods to prevent or detect the disease early. Every woman is at some risk for ovarian cancer, but the risk is much higher for women with a family history of the disease. The Registry is encouraging women over the age of 18 who have a family history of ovarian cancer to join the Registry. The Registry is a national computer tracking system that stores data that researchers use to learn more about familial ovarian cancer. The goals are to identify new genes associated with ovarian cancer, thereby improving genetic and psychosocial counseling for individuals and families. Researchers also seek to characterize lifestyle choices such as oral contraceptive use and hormone replacement therapy that may affect ovarian cancer risk. Registry participants will be asked to compete a family history questionnaire and sign a consent form to allow the registry to access medical records. A blood sample may be requested. Participants do not have to travel to Roswell Park, and there are no costs associated with joining the Registry. “Few cancers are as sneaky as ovarian cancer. In its early stages, the symptoms are vague and often go unrecognized,” said Shashikant Lele, MD, Chair, Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, and Directory of the Gilda Radner Registry. “Only with dedicated sleuthing through research will we be able to create a screening test to diagnosis ovarian cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage. The contributions of brave women who are willing to participate help us unmask this disease.” Symptoms of ovarian cancer include: a feeling of being bloated; vague abdominal and pelvic discomfort; gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gas, nausea, indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea; back pain and fatigue, frequent and urgent urination; menstrual disorders, or pain during intercourse. Many women have these symptoms; however, if they persist for more than two weeks they could be an early warning of ovarian cancer. Early detection can save your life. Remember, a Pap smear is not a test for ovarian cancer. A Pap smear detects cervical cancer. For more information, contact the Gilda Radner Familial Ovarian Cancer Registry at 1-800-Ovarian (1-800-682-7426), or visit www.ovariancancer.com. ]Family Fund Provides Equip. For Game Lands Dave and Carol Clemens of northern Susquehanna County care deeply about preserving undeveloped land for public enjoyment. A number of years ago they established an endowment with The Community Foundation of Susquehanna & Wyoming Counties to support such causes. This year they chose to have their endowment provide needed equipment at State Game Lands #35 in the Hallstead and New Milford area, which in addition to being appreciated by hunters, has become a popular spot for bird watching, and is increasingly utilized for recreational use by the general public. This unspoiled area is a valuable resource for the enjoyment of all throughout the year. Mr. & Mrs. Clemens contacted the Game Commission to see what might be on their “wish list” of materials that may be needed to effectively manage the 7,000 acre parcel. Rich Lupinsky, Land Management Group Supervisor of the Game Commission, in consultation with Ray Stanis, Game Commissioner for Game Lands #35, determined a post-hole digger is needed for helping to provide safety barriers and erosion control. In fact, the equipment will be utilized at thirteen Game Lands in both Susquehanna and Bradford counties comprising more than 65,000 acres. So the impact of the Clemens’ generosity has increased tremendously. Mr. Stanis contacted Bartron Supply in Tunkhannock which was able to provide the compatible power equipment for the Game Land’s tractors. The final step was for The Community Foundation to provide payment derived from The Clemens Family Fund. Community Foundation President, Peter Quigg, added that “it is hoped this donated equipment will help provide a safe environment for those enjoying the Game Lands in our region of northeastern Pennsylvania, and it has been a pleasure working with Mr. and Mrs. Clemens in helping them achieve their charitable goals.” The Game Commission welcomes additional contributions from other citizens interested in the preservation and maintenance of open space. For more information about assisting the Pennsylvania Game Lands, or any other charity, please contact The Community Foundation of Susquehanna & Wyoming Counties at 570-278-3800 or Foundation@epix.net.
HARRISBURG, PA - Pennsylvania State Executive Director of USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), Bill Wehry, announced that changes to the Farm Storage Facility Loan (FSFL) program have been implemented in accordance with the 2008 Farm Bill. FSA administers FSFL on behalf of the USDA Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). "This program helps to ensure that producers have adequate capacity to store their harvested production until they sell it on the open market," said Wehry. Under the FSFL provisions authorized by the CCC Charter Act, FSA has disbursed to Pennsylvania producers over $4.7 million in low interest loans. With the new provisions as authorized by the 2008 Farm Bill, loans are now available to hay, biomass, fruit, nut, and vegetable producers who are in need of on-farm storage facilities. The FSFL Program provides low-interest financing for producers of eligible commodities to build or upgrade farm storage and handling facilities. The maximum principal amount of a loan through FSFL is $500,000. Participants are required to provide a down payment of 15 percent, with CCC providing a loan for the remaining 85 percent of the net cost of the eligible storage facility and permanent drying and handling equipment. Loan terms of seven, 10 or 12 years are available depending on the amount of the loan. Interest rates for each term rate may be different and are based on the rate which CCC borrows from the Treasury Department. Payments are available in the form of a partial disbursement and the remaining final disbursement. The partial disbursement will be available after a portion of the construction has been completed. The final fund disbursement will be made when all construction is completed. The maximum amount of the partial disbursement will be 50 percent of the projected and approved total loan amount. Applications for FSFL must be submitted to the FSA county office that maintains the farm’s records. An FSFL must be approved before any site preparation or construction can begin. The following commodities are eligible for farm storage facility loans: Corn, grain sorghum, rice, soybeans, oats, peanuts, wheat, barley or minor oilseeds harvested as whole grain; corn, grain sorghum, wheat, oats or barley harvested as other-than-whole grain; pulse crops - lentils, small chickpeas and dry peas; hay; renewable biomass; fruits (including nuts) and vegetables - cold storage facilities. For more information about FSFL or other FSA price support program, please visit your FSA county office or www.fsa.usda.gov/pa.
PARSE Update The Pennsylvania Association of Retired State Employees, Endless Mountains Chapter 15, met on September 8 at the Towanda American Legion. Bernice Landmesser introduced the guest speaker, Sandy Swick, RN, Memorial Hospital. She spoke on the power of laughter and said, “the more you laugh, the better you feel and the better you look.” She also stated that if you laugh for 15 minutes a day for a year, you may lose 4 pounds. Laughter also helps to lower blood pressure and decrease allergy symptoms. Mrs. Landmesser listed the slate of officers for the years 2010 and 2011, as follows: Jesse Bacon, President; Paul Barnum, Bradford Co. Vice President; Paul St. Germaine, Sullivan Co. Vice President; John Benio, Susquehanna Co. Vice President; Cynthia Sims, Secretary; Alton Arnold, Treasurer. Both Barnum and Benio declined the nominations. Landmesser was nominated to fill the office of Bradford Co. Vice President. The office of Susquehanna Co. Vice President is open. Any retirees from Susquehanna Co. who would be willing to fill this office should contact John Benio at 570-278-2380. The membership voted to send memorials to the Bradford County Library in memory of Roberta Barrett and Mae Welker. The group was informed that informational meetings will be held on the Retired Employees Health Program (REHP) Medicare health care changes. Anne Madden attended the September 8 meeting in Harrisburg and Harry and Priscilla Zingerfelter attended the September 21 meeting in Wilkes Barre. Reports of these meetings will be given at the October meeting. To learn more about PARSE and REHP, it is important to join the PARSE organization and attend the meetings. The next meeting will be held on October 13 at the Elk Lake American Legion. To make reservations, contact President Jesse Bacon at 570-265-9784 or Susquehanna Co. Vice President, John Benio at 570-278-2380.
The Susquehanna Chapter of PASR (Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees) held its fall meeting at Dreyer Hall, Montrose on Tuesday, September 15. There were 40 members in attendance. Entertainment was provided by the Sweet Adeline’s, Elk Lake High School, under the direction of Mrs. Barb Holbert. Our Community Service committee, chaired by Mrs. Patricia Arnold, recognized Mrs. Genevieve Corwin as “ Volunteer of the Year.” Pre-retirement chair Mary Ketterer announced that all PSERS employees in all school districts in the county have been informed of the PASR pre-retirement seminars in Hazleton, Oct. 3, and Tunkhannock, Oct. 24. The Social Services Memorial Honor Fund, chaired by Mrs. Barbara Bush, conducted a memorial service for seven members and friends who passed away during the past year. President Gary Parker announced that we met 10 of 14 goals for the 2009-09 year. Monetary rewards will be given to our delegate, Robert Orner at the State PASR convention in Pittsburgh, October 4-7. New officers and committee chairs, for 2010-11 were installed by Ms. Joan Peters. They include President Robert Orner and President Elect, Robert McNamara. The John Dillon Award recipient for 2009 is Ms. Barbara L. Kelly, Treasurer. Our guest speaker was Attorney Sandy Boyle who spoke on topics important to the retirees present. A delicious buffet lunch was provided by the staff of the Montrose Bible Conference following the meeting. PASR includes all retired employees of the public schools of Pennsylvania. They are former teachers, administrators, counselors, nurses, aides, secretaries, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and maintenance staff. Contact Pres. Gary Parker, 278-9342, to learn more about PASR, or visit www.pasr.org.
Preventative Measures To Avoid Swine Flu HARRISBURG - Seeking to protect state residents from the H1N1 influenza strain, the state Department of Health recently held a briefing on preventative measures that can be taken by state residents, according to Senator Gene Yaw (R-23). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently predicted that the H1N1 influenza strain, more commonly known as swine flu, could infect up to 50 percent of the U.S. population and cause 30,000 to 90,000 deaths nationwide. “As part of Pennsylvania’s preparations for this potential pandemic, some of the state’s leading authorities on disease response and prevention held an informational hearing to detail the state’s response to H1N1 and offer advice to for citizens to avoid contracting and spreading the virus,” Yaw said. “More than one million Americans contracted the H1N1 virus this spring, but the vast majority of these individuals recovered without needing serious medical attention. It is unclear if the flu strain will yield similar results or will become more deadly during this flu season, so it is important for all citizens to take the proper steps to prevent the spread of the virus in the event that it mutates into a more virulent strain.” Yaw said much of the public does not have any background immunity to the H1N1 virus, so community mitigation steps will be important to prevent the spread of the virus. He said the H1N1 virus spreads through the same methods as the seasonal flu, including coughing, sneezing and close contact with infected individuals. The most important steps that citizens can take to prevent the spread of the disease are covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and staying at home when exhibiting flu-like symptoms (except to get medical care or other necessities). The state Department of Health and the CDC are urging at-risk populations to get vaccinated against the H1N1 virus as soon as the vaccine is available. Clinical trials are underway for the H1N1 vaccine, and the first doses are expected to be available in mid-October. Yaw said the vaccine will not be mandatory, but it is highly recommended for pregnant women, anyone in contact with children under 6 months of age, children from 6 months to 24 months of age, adults under age 65 with certain medical conditions (such as diabetes, asthma, heart problems or weakened immune systems) and health care workers. He added that the Department of Health will be working with schools and health care providers to monitor the effectiveness of the vaccine, observe any changes in the makeup of the virus and identify geographic areas where the disease is most widespread. The Department will also be providing hand sanitizer and tissues to schools to mitigate the spread of the disease. “In addition to working with schools, the Department will be helping hospitals in high-infection areas to deal with the increased patient load,” Yaw said. “The Department will be communicating the latest news on the virus directly to providers and the public. Those interested in more information can visit the Department of Health’s website at www.health.state.pa.us for the latest news on the H1N1 virus.
Stewardship Program Encourages Producers A new program is available to Pennsylvania agricultural and forestry producers offering financial incentives to adopt additional conservation activities on their land. The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is a voluntary program that encourages producers to maintain existing conservation activities and add new ones. "This program is for those willing to do additional conservation activities over and above their current stewardship levels," says Craig Derickson, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist in Pennsylvania. The program was authorized by Congress in the 2008 Farm Bill and will be available through 2017. It replaces the former Conservation Security Program, which Congress renamed and completely revamped to improve its availability and appeal to producers. It is being administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). “CSP is one of many state and federal programs that are available to help producers integrate conservation stewardship into their operations to prevent soil erosion, enhance soil quality, prevent water contamination, and improve plant and animal health,” said Secretary Dennis Wolff. Producers interested in applying for CSP are encouraged to review program details online at www.nrcs.usda.gov/new_csp/csp.html before making an appointment with their local NRCS field office. Applications must be submitted by September 30 to be considered for funding in the first ranking period. Eligible lands include cropland, grassland, improved pastureland, and non-industrial private forestland. Eligible applicants include individual landowners and legal entities that are listed in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). Producers doing a variety of conservation practices can profit from the program. Such practices include controlling wind erosion, conserving energy, using high efficiency pumps, growing high residue-producing crops, using minimum tillage, growing cover crops, installing buffers to prevent runoff from going directly into lakes and streams, managing non-cropped areas for wildlife, providing food plots and flooding fields for wildlife, avoiding nesting periods when mowing hay, using integrated pest management, applying fertilizer according to soil and tissue tests, following a nutrient management plan, and following a grazing management system that maintains soil and water quality and provides adequate forage to meet livestock demands. To apply for CSP, participants are encouraged to use a self-screening checklist first to determine whether the program is suitable for them. It is available at NRCS field offices and on the internet at www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/index.html. After self-screening, the producer's current and proposed conservation activities will be ranked by NRCS, which will also conduct on-site field verifications. CSP payment rates will be based on a combination of points determined by the producer's current and planned conservation enhancements. Final payment rates for the 2009 CSP sign-up have not yet been established. Payments are based on cost of stewardship/conservation activities, forgone income, and environmental benefits achieved. To receive the high end of payments participants will need to commit to do several additional activities. Contracts will cover the entire agricultural operation and be for five years. Payments to an individual or legal entity may not exceed $40,000 per year and $200,000 in a five-year period. For information about CSP, producers can visit www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/CSP/index.html or contact the local NRCS field office in Montrose at 570-278-1011 extension: 3.
Rotary Welcomes Exchange Student New Milford Area Rotary Club recently welcomed its newest Rotary Exchange student, Javier Urrea. Javier, 17, arrived at the beginning of September from Madrid, Spain and is enrolled at Mountain View Jr.-Sr. High School. He is hosted by Todd and Janet Adams of Dundaff.
Pictured (l-r): New Milford Area Rotary Club Youth Exchange Officer Melody Haley, Rotary Exchange student Javier Urrea, and Kate Farrell Kurosky, Rotex Coordinator. Javier comes from a family of four. He has one brother; his father is an economist and his mother is a lawyer. Javier said he's participating in the Rotary Exchange program because he wanted to learn English well and learn another culture. He finds rural Susquehanna County a bit different from his life in a large city such as Madrid. "It's very different here," Javier said. "There's no public transportation. At home, that's how we travel." However, Javier says he is adapting well, and his classmates at Mountain View helped him find his way around during his first days of class. Golf is his favorite hobby, and he's a member of the Mt. View golf team. The New Milford Area Rotary Club is currently sponsoring two students studying abroad. Tiffany Davis, a junior at Mountain View Jr. Sr. High School, is in Mexico. Ryan Walsh, also a Mountain View junior, is studying in Italy. Representatives of the New Milford Area Rotary Club will be recruiting potential exchange students at Mountain View High School within the next month, to inform students of the opportunity they have to study abroad as Rotary Exchange Students for the August 2010 school year. Prospective students can direct questions to their guidance counselors, or telephone Melody Haley, Youth Exchange Officer for the New Milford Area Club at (570) 222-9852 or Kate Farrell Kurosky, Rotex Coordinator at (570) 278-3063.
Showmanship Contest At Harford Fair The tenth annual Dairy Showmanship Contest, sponsored by the Susquehanna County Holstein Club, was held at the 152nd Harford Fair. Participant’s showmanship skills were judged in five different age divisions by 4-H member Jenna Sprout from Montrose. Jenna was the Senior Champion Master Exhibitor at the Susquehanna County 4-H Dairy Round-up and this earned her the opportunity to judge the showmanship contest at the Fair. The bleachers were full as the contestants began showing off their showmanship skills. Participants in the Showmanship Contest included current and former 4-H dairy project members from Susquehanna and neighboring counties as well as first time participants. The contest is open to anyone attending the Fair. The Harford Fair Queen and her alternate, Carol Small and Rachael Klein each took part, showing their heifers like pros.
Pictured above are the winners of the Harford Fair Showman Contest nine to twelve year old division: Emily Supancik holding her first place trophy and ribbon, Kennidy Finch placing second, and in third place is Ali Teel. The first three placings in the 8 year and under division were Victoria Clark, Springville, Dana Nunemacher, Dimock, and Emory Bewley, New Milford; 9 through 12 division winners were Emily Supancik, New Milford, Kennidy Finch, Springville, and Ali Teel from Dimock. The first place winner in the 13 to 15 year old division was Evan Castrogiovanni, Montrose followed by Allison Kiefer, Montrose and Cassie Clark, Springville. The 16 to 21 year old division was won by Abbey Puzo, Montrose, followed by Taylar Sherman, Springville and Allie Depue from Montrose. Winner in the over 21 division was Steve VanKuren, Montrose, with Abby Onyon, New Milford placing second and Robert Supancik, New Milford placing third. Look for this contest to continue at the Harford Fair again next year.
School Department Winners Announced The 1,650 entries displayed in the Little Red Schoolhouse at the Harford Fair were comprised of art work from school districts across the county, adjoining counties and as far away as New Jersey. It has been a long-standing fair tradition to recognize the artistic talents of young by awarding Best of Show ribbons to four outstanding entries within the department.
Natalie Meagher from Susquehanna is pictured receiving her engraved clock for her Best of Show entry at the Harford Fair. Her scratch art was selected to receive the Mary H. Karhnak Award for the Best of Show entry in grades K-6 in the School Department. Pictured with her is Cindy Reynolds, superintendent of the school department. The Mary H. Karhnak Award is a memorial award to honor a former teacher in the Mountain View School District who served as the superintendent of the School Department at the Harford Fair in the 70’s. Janet and Michael Karhnak, sister-in-law and brother of Mary, initiated the award the year after her tragic death and it has been awarded every year since 1979. This year’s winner was a fifth grade home schooled student from Susquehanna, Natalie Meagher. She and her family have been entering items in the fair and participating in fair events for a long-time. Her scratch art piece on copper captured the award. She was presented with an engraved clock set in green marble during the fair and her name will be added to the perpetual plaque along with all of the former winners. It is displayed each year in the school building at the fair. The Best of Show winner in grades 7-12 won’t receive her award until next summer. She is presently an exchange student in Mexico and was starting school there on the first day of the Harford Fair. As a sophomore at the Mountain View High School, Tiffany Davis created a beautifully drawn eagle’s eye with chalk. The piece is matted and framed and will be on display at the school along with the perpetual plaque until she returns from her exchange student adventure. The winning entry in the Fun and Safety Poster Contest, which will be sent for competition to the Pennsylvania State Farm Show in January, was created by Natalie Wentz. She is a very talented young lady who has been entering items at the fair since her preschool years. Her family has been home schooled and her brother received the Best of Show Award in 2005 for his written social studies project. Natalie is beginning her freshman year at Keystone College with a full 4-year scholarship. Throughout the 1990’s, the cover of the fair book was a design selected as the result of a contest. Each year’s winner depicted the best artistic representation of the overall areas of the Harford Fair. The contest was brought back this year and as a result, an outstanding cover will be featured on next year’s fair book.
Michael Palughi from Edison, New Jersey proudly displays his prize-winning entry. His original art work was selected as the winning entry of the Harford Fair Book Cover Contest. It will be featured on the 2010 fair book. Michael Palughi, a freshman at St. Joseph’s High School in New Jersey, created the prize-winning cover. Asked how he found out about the contest, he said that his family visits relatives at a lake in Susquehanna County and he saw the contest when he was looking at this year’s fair book. In an interview with Michael, he told superintendent of the school department and fair director, Cindy Reynolds, that he has been taking community art lessons since he was in second grade. The idea of the postcard came to him as a way of encouraging people to visit the fair. The mountains in the background represent a view from the lake and beautiful Susquehanna County. Michael’s interests go far beyond art. He is an excellent student and loves to cook. In his hometown community of Edison, New Jersey, he presents Michael’s Carnival as a gift to his community. Close to 100 friends and neighbors enjoy his games and food in his backyard. Last year he produced an interactive video of the carnival. Congratulations to these talented young students as well as all of the others who entered items in this year’s Harford Fair. Students who want to get a jumpstart on items to enter next year can visit the website at www.harfordfair.com to see the variety of classes available.
County Youth Complete Employment Program Twenty Susquehanna County youth participated in the Summer Youth Employment Program to gain valuable work experience this summer. The program helps to build a strong work foundation and educate participants on the demands of business, especially high-growth occupations. In addition to work experience, participants attended orientation, participated in work readiness activities, and learned about the education and training required for various careers and education financing options. The program ended with presentations on renewable energy and gas drilling. Many students were placed at Montrose, Blue Ridge, and Susquehanna County School Districts doing custodial work and building maintenance. The Montrose, New Milford, and Great Bend Pump-N-Pantry's welcomed participants to their staff, and the Trehab Weatherization Team taught a participant about home energy efficiency. Susquehanna Borough and Tri-Borough provided hands on experience in maintenance and repair, and Barnes-Kasson Health Center & Hospital and Forest City Nursing Center provided health care industry information. The Susquehanna Free Library and Schneider's Market also participated in the program. The Summer Youth Employment Program is funded by the Workforce Investment Act. This year, additional funding from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 allowed for increased participation. Administered by the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission's Northern Tier Workforce Investment Board, the program is operated in Bradford County by Bradford County Action and TREHAB in Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga and Wyoming counties. For more information, contact Sherry Felten, Workforce Development Program Manager with Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission toll free at 888-868-8800 or e-mail Felten@northerntier.org.
Susquehanna Co. Youth Take First After a three way tie for first place that led to a shoot off, Rip VanWinkle, III won first place and brought home a state title to Susquehanna County on Wednesday, July 29, at the Pennsylvania 4-H State Achievement Days Shotgun Competition. VanWinkle had an excellent day at the competition shooting a 49 out of 50 possible points in the disciplines of both Trap and Skeet. In the shoot off to break the tie, he shot a perfect 20 out of 20. He is certainly no stranger to the winner’s circle. In 2007 he finished fourth at the 4-H State Days Shotgun Competition, which earned him a spot at the national competition in Grande Island, Nebraska.
Member Rip VanWinkle, III pictured with his dad and coach, Rip VanWinkle, Jr. Rip is an 11 year 4-H member of the Arrows and Clays 4-H Club. He is a 2009 graduate of Elk Lake High School and is the son of Rip and Bette VanWinkle of Rush. Rip will be attending Penn College of Technology in Williamsport to study diesel mechanics. 4-H’er Hannah Cronk also placed first in the state at the Pennsylvania 4-H State Achievement Days bringing home another state title to Susquehanna County. Hannah participated in the Fashion Revue competition held on the campus of Penn State University on Wednesday, July 29. Hannah was one of 64 participants in the State Fashion Revue. Hannah earned her trip to Penn State by participating in the Regional Fashion Revue competition held in Montrose in June. She was one of four young ladies who were selected from the regional competition to move on to the state competition. Judging at the State Fashion Revue is done by three professional judges, and participants are judged on outside construction and fit of their “wearable” item; they are also judged on “modeling ability with the main emphasis being the selection, modeling, and choices made by the 4-H member to enhance their color, silhouette and activities.” The judges then select the top 12 finalists by using these guidelines and from there the winners are chosen.
Member Hannah Cronk pictured with her winning outfit at PA 4-H State Achievement Days. Hannah is a ten year member of the East Bridgewater 4-H Club. She is a 2009 graduate of Montrose Area High School and is the daughter of David and Joanne Cronk of Montrose. Hannah will be attending Bloomsburg University and is majoring in chemistry. Other 4-H members competing at the Pennsylvania State 4-H Achievement Days from Susquehanna County included: Kenny Kiefer, Nik Mattocks, Matt Forba, Christopher Jordan, and Anthony Whitney in the Shotgun Competition. Theresa Staats, Jordan Noldy, and Elaine Mackey modeled their 4-H clothing and textile projects in the Fashion Revue Competition. Paul Chichura competed in the Presentation Contest. The focus of all 4-H programs is the development of youth as individuals and as responsible and productive citizens. For more information about the 4-H program here in Susquehanna County, contact Penn State Cooperative Extension Office at 570-278-1158.
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