Hard work in high school has paid off for college-bound seniors. Amber Brecht, of Hallstead, Pa., has been granted the Veronica Founder's Scholarship to study Occupational Therapy at Alvernia University in the fall. Brecht is currently a senior at Blue Ridge High School.
Recipients of the $15,000 Veronica Founder's Scholarship must have a minimum of 980 SAT* (or 21 ACT) and 3.0 GPA. Alvernia's Neag Nursing, Shirley and Joseph Boscov, Presidential, Trustees' and Veronica Scholarships are merit based and awarded on a competitive basis.
All too often, dogs and cats come through our doors as strays. Lost and scared, hoping someone they love finds them. Unfortunately, that person doesn’t always come and our shelter, it’s staff and volunteers, become their new family.
Picture is handsome Franklin, who is one of those forgotten pets. It’s hard to guess where this special boy came from, or what kind of life he had before he ended up with us. We do know, he has some different behaviors brought on by his past life including food aggression and anxiety.
Franklin is a chocolate Labrador around 4 years old, neutered, housebroken, and good with other animals. Franklin is your typical Lab, full of energy and love. He is however considered a special needs dog, who requires a stable environment with adults and/or older teenagers who can give him plenty of exercise and space. If you think you may be that person or family, we ask you to please call or stop by the shelter to learn more about our boy Franklin. Maybe you can be that special someone that will love him forever.
Fun Fact: With their endearing personalities and willingness to please, Labrador Retrievers have earned the top spot in the hearts of millions for the past 25 consecutive years. Won't you give our handsome Franklin a chance to win you over?
True Friends Animal Welfare Center
#570-396-6011
Website: truefriendsawc.com
"Giving our animals a safe refuge and hope for a second chance."
Wilkes University Student Troy Carey of New Milford, Pa., recently participated in the Alternative Spring Break program in Costa Rica creating planters, outdoor seating, and tables from recycled and painted tires and cement for Costa Rican schools.
Troy is the son of Kenneth and Wendy Carey.
The potential for an unanticipated emergency to wreak havoc on our lives is a constant threat. Floods, fires, hurricanes, earthquakes and a host of disasters can strike suddenly, putting your home, yourself and your family in danger. However, by planning now and creating an emergency preparedness kit, you can be equipped to respond to and recover from a disaster.
Preparing for a Threat
Recognizing which threats pose the most danger is the first step in strengthening your preparedness plans. Our geographic locations often force us to prepare for certain natural disasters. For example, if you live near the coast, hurricanes should be a major concern, while forest fires may be a fear if you live in a wooded region that experiences dry spells. Accounting for a palpable threat will greatly increase the odds of successfully protecting your family.
Emergency Preparedness Kit
No matter what type of emergencies are common in your area, it’s essential to maintain an emergency preparedness kit with resources that will adequately support your family through a shelter in place situation or an evacuation. Here are some tips for effectively safeguarding yourself during an emergency.
Water - Water is perhaps the most basic necessity for survival. Depending on the challenges you’re facing, drinkable water may be restricted in a disaster. It is recommended that you store at least one gallon of water per person for three days. However, depending on age, health, physical condition, activity, diet and climate, individual needs may vary.
Food - When a disaster occurs, access to food can be limited. Having an adequate supply will help alleviate those concerns, and you’ll appreciate knowing you can keep your family nourished until services and supplies can be restored. No matter what you stockpile, make sure it’s nonperishable. Canned foods, salt-free crackers and whole grain cereals are some of the best emergency food supplies that don’t require any preparation material. In addition, a can opener and pocket knife are essential.
First Aid Kit - In a situation where professional medical attention is not available, a first aid kit becomes invaluable. Some basic over-the-counter items will allow you to manage common injuries or ailments. In addition to bandages, sterile dressings, pain-relievers, antibiotic ointment and cleansing agents, make sure you have a supply of any necessary prescription medications.
Other Supplies - Each family must recognize their unique needs and challenges. If you have children, their age will often dictate the supplies needed. Climate also plays a major factor in your emergency preparations. If you live in an area where cold weather is frequent, keep warm clothes, jackets and blankets at your disposal. You should also plan for power outages - have a transistor or all-weather radio and flashlights with extra batteries. Also, in the event of an evacuation, you should have cash as you may not be able to get to an ATM.
Communication
One of the most important aspects of an emergency preparedness planning involves communication. As a family, discuss potential emergency situations, review how you’ve prepared and what should occur. Resources such as Ready.gov can help you prepare. Every family should establish a meeting point. Our constant reliance on technology – including cell phones – creates daily conveniences but in an emergency, power and cellular outages are common. It is important to plan for where to go if your family can’t access your home; as well as where to meet if your primary meeting spot isn’t available. In addition, keep a written list of phone numbers in your wallet or purse so that the information is available. These contingency plans provide peace of mind now and a firm plan for action if the unthinkable occurs.
About the Author: Alan Stein is the Vice President of Marketing Services & Product Development at AlliedBarton Security Services. Alan is also the Vice Chair of the BOMA International Preparedness Committee.
