Forest City – In the July 18th issue of Collier’s Weekly is an interesting article, “Money and the Movies,” which gleams strongly of local color. The writer narrates of a Forest City man, who was a live insurance agent, who is now one of the movie magnates of the nation. The man is S. L. Rothapfel, who resided in Forest City up to a few years ago. He is now the manager of the Strand Theater on Broadway, New York, which represents an investment of over $1,000,000 and has a seating capacity of 3,500. Of the former Forest City man, it is written: “One or more episodes will serve to show in another way the extraordinary advance in the picture theater. Exactly 6 years ago a live young insurance agent, S. L. Rothapfel, settled down in Forest City, because he happened to marry a girl whose father lived there. It was ion the hard coal district; there was little opportunity for writing policies there, so he started a picture show over a saloon in a side street. He rented 250 undertaker’s chairs on which to seat his audience. The admission fee was 10 cents. Rothapfel operated the projecting machine and kept the phonograph going. Today he is manager of the Strand Theatre which is the newest and most elaborate house dedicated to the silent drama in the United States. Such is the swift evolution of some men connected with picture showing.” [In 1931 Mr. Rothapfel “is to direct the greatest theatre of all time, the International Music Hall, in New York City, a central unit of the $250,000,000 John D. Rockefeller, Jr., building project popularly known as “Radio City.” (Continued next week)

South Montrose – Otto Koab [Koeb], B. S., A.M., of Stanford University, California, is spending his vacation at E. B. Browning’s, in South Montrose. Prof. Koab’s [Koeb] native home is in Basil, Switzerland, and he has been a world-wide traveler. [According to our marriage records, “At the home of the bride’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Browning, South Montrose, 6-3-1915, at noon, occurred the marriage of Miss Emerald E. Browning and Mr. Otto Koeb, of Berkeley, Cal., by Rev. Carla Councilman. Independent Republican, 6-4-1915]

Susquehanna – Mr. Benway, an electrician employed by the Susquehanna Light & Power Co., was electrocuted in mid-air Friday afternoon, by coming in contact with a live wire. His body was taken to his home for burial Sunday. He is survived by his wife. They had only lived here about a month but had made many friends who sympathize with her in her awful affliction.

Montrose – The “Fats” and “Leans” met under a summer sky for a game of ball for the benefit of the Library fund—receipts being nearly $30. The game was replete with humorous sensations of base running, Bill Lorimer, Jim VanCampen, Dr. Birchard, Geo. Burns, Charlie Lage and all that legion of fat renowns featured in this department of the game, while Billy Cox was conspicuous for his absence. N. Warner’s catching showed his old time form, but it must be acknowledged that the Leans with Voss, Lott, Zried, Brewster, Remmele, Donlin and other lean celebrities proved too speedy for the humorous “Fats.” The score was Fats, 12; Leans, 20. Each team was conspicuous for its yellow and blue caps furnished by Frank Caruso, proprietor of the Walk Over Shoe Store.

Silver Lake – “Rose and Russell Farms Roads Barred to Autos and Other Vehicles.” Scores of motorists, who have in years before visited Silver Lake, will be disappointed to know that the one entrance to the lake for autos or carriages has been closed to outsiders by residents of the property, known as the Rose farm. Motorists have flocked to Silver Lake from Binghamton and the outlying districts, eaten their lunches on the banks of the lake and returned contented with the day’s outing. Autos last year were allowed to cross certain portions of the Russell farm but this has also been stopped and persons are only allowed to walk across the property. These two roads are the only possible entrance to the lake with vehicles and when uninformed motorists arrive there from long distances in expectation of running their cars to the lake shore, they are disappointed. The present road only brings one to within half mile of the lake, and as it is surrounded with groves of trees, the water can hardly be seen. Over 100 motorists journeyed to

the lake July 4, but were turned away by the caretaker of the property.—Binghamton Press

Royal, Clifford Twp. – Five State Road surveyors have been surveying the proposed State Road from Royal to Glenwood, last week. They are fine fellows and made it pretty lively two or three nights. Also, in Clifford, Elmer Finn, our retired merchant, is still a very busy man. In addition to an extensive business selling farm machinery, he supervises the business of the Clifford creamery, which in addition to the home plant, has four skimming stations. He has charge of marketing the butter also.

Rush – W. H. Wilcox, who was a member of the 50th Penn’a Volunteers, Co. D., died quite suddenly July 9th, 1914. He was a former resident of Rush and will be remembered by all of the veterans in and around Montrose. He entered the ranks and was gradually promoted for bravery until he reached the rank of First Lieutenant. He was a brother of Mr. Wilcox and Mrs. Delia Griffin, of Rush.

Lenoxville – Miss Pearl Ransom has been hired to teach our fall and winter term at the Wright school house. Now we hope to get some of those old-fashioned school days. Reading, writing and arithmetic will be taught by the tune of a hickory-stick. We wish her success.

Elk Lake – A horse belonging to G. R. Bishop became frightened by an automobile and ran from Miss Arnold’s store to C. E. Lowe’s, where it was caught by Miss Daley.

Great Bend – A glove factory, to employ about 150 persons, is projected at Great Bend. Norman H. Parke, of the Black Horn Leather Co., Great Bend, is back of the movement, it being felt by him for some time that a glove factory would be feasible in using part of the output of this tannery. A glove manufactory is anxious to locate at that place.

Springville – Miss Margaret Reynolds came here to take charge of the soda water fountain just installed in the store of Brown & Reynolds, her brother, Ward W. Reynolds, being the junior member of the firm. The fountain was purchased of Druggist F. D. Morris, [Montrose] who went to Springville and instructed the buyers in the method of operation.

Stevens Point – George Hawkins has a new auto. Now the girls will have a ride.

Kingsley – The Y. P. C. U. of the Universalist church will gave an entertainment July 31, consisting of vocal solos and duets, violin music, piano solos and duets, and recitations by Ruth Jeffers, followed by a drama, “How the Story Grew.” The cast will include Mrs. Bertha Capron, Miss Julia Stearns, Mrs. Myrtle Adams, Mrs. Maggie Tiffany, Mrs. Lucy Goodrich, Mrs. Merle Tingley, Misses Alma Goodrich and Louise Stearns.

Pure Bred Cows – It is doubtful if there is another county ion the State that has, according to population, such a large percentage of pure-bred cows as Susquehanna. Stock selling from $500 to $2,000 per head is not unusual. Only recently H. S. Brown, of Jackson, sold a half interest in his pure-bred Holstein bull, Walter Korndyke Copia, 60889, to George E. Page, of Gibson, for $1,000. Mr. Page has a fine herd of thoroughbred Holsteins and was glad to purchase at that price an interest in so valuable a sire.

A civil forfeiture is a court determination that certain property was used in connection with illegal activities (such as the distribution of controlled substances) and the court then orders the property forfeited to the government, i.e., the government becomes the owner.  A few years ago, as a result of the assistance and involvement of Susquehanna County Detective William Strong in a federal investigation into a methamphetamine ring, Susquehanna County received a forfeited BMW from the federal authorities that had belonged to a drug dealer convicted as part of the investigation.

There are statutory restrictions on what the vehicle – or the proceeds from any sale of the vehicle – can be used for – namely, law enforcement activities that have some connection with drug enforcement.  The civil forfeiture law provides a very strong tool in the drug enforcement world – it allows for law enforcement to take ill-gotten assets from drug dealers and then use the proceeds in the fight against illegal controlled substances.  We are in the process of selling the BMW mentioned above and will use the proceeds for our county drug task force.

There is a compelling civil forfeiture case now on appeal in the Commonwealth Court.  Based on media reports, Elizabeth Young, a 69-year old widow, owned a home in west Philadelphia valued at $54,000.  Ms. Young also owned 1997 Chevrolet Venture minivan.  Unfortunately for her, Ms. Young also had a son who was a drug dealer – and he was using her home and her minivan in his drug dealing activities.  The police notified Ms. Young that her son was up to no good – using her house and car for selling marijuana – and Ms. Young allegedly did not curtail or stop her son’s illegal behavior.  When her son was arrested, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office moved to forfeit Ms. Young’s house and minivan – and the lower court granted the request.  Ms. Young lost her house and car because of her son’s illegal conduct – and her failure to take any steps to disassociate her assets from the drug activities.

Ms. Young continues to maintain that she was unaware of her son’s marijuana distribution business.  At the hearing, she conceded that the police had warned her about her son’s activities, but she testified that she did not believe the police.  When the police searched the home, they seized a little over one pound of marijuana, a scale, and small plastic baggies used for packaging the marijuana for distribution.  Ms. Young contends that she did not notice these items in her home because she was in and out of the hospital for medical treatment.

Ms. Young’s son was convicted of a felony drug offense and was sentenced to 11 months to 23 months of home confinement – though he will not be staying at Ms. Young’s home.  Ms. Young was never charged or convicted of any offense.  Under the civil forfeiture law, an uncharged third party can still lose his or her property if they allow it to be used for illegal activities, i.e., drug transactions.  In a civil forfeiture, the burden of proof rests upon the claimant – property owner – to demonstrate that they were an innocent owner, i.e., that they were unaware of the illicit conduct for which their property was being utilized.

Thus, the questions for the Commonwealth Court are relatively simple.  First, did the government demonstrate sufficient evidence that the property forfeited was involved in the son’s illegal drug trafficking?  If so, did Ms. Young demonstrate that she was truly an innocent owner who was unaware of her son’s illegal conduct?  Finally, did the loss of Ms. Young’s home and minivan result in an excessive fine or penalty in violation of constitutional protections?

Regardless of the outcome of this case, it is a good reminder that you should be careful who you allow to use your home, car or other property – and you should also make an effort to assure that the use is lawful.  If you learn that someone is using your property in connection with illegal drug activities, you need to report it to law enforcement immediately to protect yourself – and your property – from any legal problems.  If you simply stick your head in the sand, like Ms. Young’s did, then the consequences can be financially severe.

“Flowers have an expression of countenance as much as men or animals. Some seem to smile; some have a sad expression; some are pensive and diffident; others again are plain, honest and upright, like the broad-faced sunflower and the hollyhock.” ~Henry Ward Beecher, “Star Papers: A Discourse of Flowers”

Ahhh, Summer time and all of its glory! The meadows, fields and roadsides bring forth a colorful medley of blooms just waiting to be admired and enjoyed. Daisies, Buttercups, orange-as-the-sunset Daylillies, Sky-blue Chicory, Crownvetch, purple Clover, natural fences of wild white and pink roses and so much more. We have waited all winter to make daisy chains and informal bouquets on our dining tables, but how can we make their beauty continue when the first hint of frost comes upon us? Never fear, your local Library Branch has a plethora of volumes that will give you basic instructions on how to dry, press and arrange flowers for long lasting beauty and enjoyment. Among the titles are:

“Dried flower Displays” by Fiona Eaton, “Dried Flowers: Over 20 Natural Projects for the Home” by Kally Ellis, “The Creative Art of Pressed Flowers” by Mary Lawrence, “The Afterlife of Flowers” by Janie Feldman Gross, “The Complete Flower Craft Book” written by Susan Conder, “Flowercrafts: Practical Inspirations for Natural Gifts, Country Crafts and Decorative Displays” by Deena Beverley, “Flowercraft: Practical techniques and Projects Using Fresh, Dried, Waxed or Pressed Flowers” by Jenny Raworth, and “The Book of Flower Arranging: Fresh, Dried and Artificial” by Mary Forsell, just to name a few.

On July 15th, the Summer Reading Program participants welcomed a special guest—Dr. Lauretta Clowes, who spoke and demonstrated, with help from her “Boneified Assistant” the workings of the human body. Many present learned facts about the human body and what we should do to keep ourselves healthy. The youngsters also joined in for a few exercise moves to show how bones and muscles work. We extend our thanks to Dr. Clowes for her kindness and expertise.

Dr. Lauretta Clowes, special guest of the Susquehanna Branch Library’s Summer Reading Program

As was announced in the last column, the Susquehanna Reader’s Group will not be meeting this month. They will be discussing the July selection –“The Aviator’s Wife” by Melanie Benjamin, along with the August selection—“People of the Book” by Geraldine Brooks at their August meeting scheduled for August 21st at 4:00 pm. “The Aviator’s Wife” is the tender, yet partially heart-wrenching tale of Anne Morrow, who, as a shy college senior, travels to Mexico City to spend Christmas with her family, only to meet the adventurous Colonel Charles Lindbergh. Col. Lindbergh had just returned from his celebrated 1927 solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Even though she is captivated by his courage and fame, Anne doesn’t think Charles will give her a second glance—but she is so wrong. Charles has found in Anne a kindred spirit and an adventurer and soon her world is changed forever. In the years following their much publicized wedding, Anne becomes the first licensed female glider pilot in the United States, but even though this is a major achievement, she is still viewed as “the aviator’s wife”. Sadly, the idyllic life she wishes for will ultimately bring heartache and hardships as well as happiness.

“People of the Book” by Pulitzer Prize-winning Author, Geraldine Brooks, is a novel of sweeping historical grandeur and emotional intensity. It is inspired by a true story, that follows the journey of  Sarajevo Haggadah, a rare Hebrew manuscript  created in fifteenth-century Spain. When Hanna Heath, an Australian rare book expert is contracted to preserve this priceless work, the series of tiny artifacts she discovers in its ancient binding-an insect wing fragment, wine stains, salt crystals, a white hair-only begin to unlock its deep mysteries and unexpectedly plunges Hanna into the intrigues of fine art forgers and ultra-nationalist fanatics. These titles are sure to create a stimulating discussion in August-- if you haven’t joined yet, why not stop by and sign up. You’ll meet new friends, say hello to those you haven’t seen in a while and be encouraged to pursue new reading genres.

Do you know someone who has welcomed a new addition to their family? Please check out the “Free Books for Babies” program! All a parent has to do is visit the Main Library Branch in Montrose or one of the Library Branch locations in Forest City, Hallstead-Great Bend, or Susquehanna, before the baby's first birthday and you will receive your welcome package, including a sturdy board book. The child will also receive special gifts from the Library on his or her first and second birthday. As long as you’re there, why not register for a library card for yourself, if you don't currently have one. Registration only takes a minute, and it's free for residents of Susquehanna County. It is never too early to start a child’s Library and begin the tradition of reading together.

“Susquehanna County Reads” is a community reading program established by the Library in conjunction with Susquehanna County Literacy. For one month out of the year, the community is invited to read the chosen book together and participate in programs inspired by the book. The Chosen Book for 2014 is “Travels With Charley” by John Steinbeck. This is one of Steinbeck’s last works and chronicles his travels across the United States with his French Poodle, Charley, in the 1960’s. It is a frank, endearing portrait of American life that many should enjoy. More details will be forthcoming in future columns.

The first ever Montrose Architectural Treasure Hunt began on July 4th and will end on August 1st, the first day of the Montrose Blueberry Festival. This brand new event, presented by the Susquehanna County Historical Society & Free Library Association will encourage Montrose residents to enjoy the historic architecture of their beloved hometown and provides participants a chance to win some great prizes! If you did not stop by the Library Association table during the Fourth of July festivities  to pick up a photographic pamphlet of “clues,” please stop by the Susquehanna County Historical Society or Main Library for a copy. Discover the beautiful details in the Montrose Historic District and walk the designated area to find the “clues” given in the pamphlet. This “treasure hunt” will take place on both sides of Lake Avenue from Maple Street to High Street, both sides of Public Avenue, and both sides of Maple Street from the Courthouse to Church Street and both sides of Monument Street. All “clues” will be viewable from the sidewalk. Please, we ask that you don’t trespass onto private property for a closer look. Winners of the contest will be announced on Blueberry-licious Saturday, August 2nd. These are some of the great prizes available: 1st Prize Adult - $100 gift certificate to McCormick's at the Inn at Montrose plus 4 tickets to the Montrose Theater. 1st Prize Children (16 and under only, please)  $50 gift certificate to Original Italian Pizza in Montrose plus 4 tickets to Montrose Theater. 2nd and 3rd prizes Adults and Children - $25 gift certificate  to Chocolates by Leopold and Association products. In the case of multiple correct entries, winners will be drawn from a hat; one prize per family. Please come and join us for this great new game. For more information, call 570-278-1881.

Remember to sign up at the customer service counter and use your ShurSave “Gold Card” while you’re shopping for picnic and barbeque supplies at Rob’s or Ray’s ShurSave Supermarkets. With every ShurSave and Western Family product you purchase, your local Library System receives three cents. Now this may not sound like much, but, believe me, it adds up quickly and benefits all of the Susquehanna County Library Branches.

As I pour another frosty glass of lemonade, I leave you with not one, but two thoughts:

“When you have only two pennies left in the world, buy a loaf of bread with one, and a lily with the other. “ ~Chinese Proverb

“If dandelions were hard to grow, they would be most welcome on any lawn.” ~Andrew Mason

Popsicles—Bike Rides—Reading Under a Shady Tree

ENJOY!!

Do Antidepressants Make The Grieving Process Easier?

Bob’s dog recently died leaving him heartbroken. Weeks went by as he continued to grieve. He didn’t want to get another dog right away because it would only remind him of Sadie and make him unhappy. His sadness was intense. He had trouble eating and sleeping and had difficulty concentrating. He would call friends on the phone which made him feel more composed, that is, until the phone call ended. Bob’s brother worried about him and urged him to get help. Maybe, since Bob was depressed, an antidepressant medication may be useful. But is Bob depressed or just going through the normal grieving process? He certainly has all the signs of clinical depression. However, whereas depression is usually constant, grief is more likely to ebb and flow like waves crashing on the shore. Grief does not usually invoke feelings of worthlessness and low self-esteem that are typical of true depression. Those who grieve long to be reunited with someone they loved. The clinically depressed believe they are unlovable.

Antidepressants are not recommended to overcome bereavement. These drugs can mask grieving which will only return after the person stops taking them. They can take weeks to kick in and have a long list of side effects.

A 2014 study examined the prescribing of antidepressants to bereaved parents who lost their newly born children. Of those prescribed medication, antidepressants were most common (80%) followed by benzodiazepines/sleep aids (20%). The bulk (75%) of these prescriptions was written within a month after the death. Obstetrician/gynecologists wrote nearly all prescriptions given shortly after loss, not giving the parent time to work through the process.

The majority of parents who were prescribed antidepressants took them long-term. These data raise disturbing questions about prescribing practices for anyone who grieves over a loved one. The grieving process gets close at what it means to be human. Handling that process over to professionals armed with pills approximates the most dangerous misuse of pharmaceuticals imaginable.

Discuss your feelings with a priest. Get counseling from a social worker or psychologist. Go on a trip to Europe. Get some exercise at the gym. Work through those tough times knowing that what you are feeling is natural and normal. A lot of dogs need good homes, so after a while, consider a rescue dog from a shelter.

Ron Gasbarro, PharmD is a pharmacist, medical writer, and principal at Rx-Press.com. Write him at ron@Rx-Press.com.