The Harford Fair is the largest community event in the county and depends on the community for the wonderful displays and prize-winning animal entries.  There are 26 different departments in which to display items for judging.  Perhaps you spent the winter knitting, making a special quilt, sewing a special outfit, working on some needlework, perfecting a recipe, making jelly or jam, or attending a painting class or working with glass.  The result is something special which would make a wonderful entry for the Harford Fair.

Pictured (L-R) are: Presley and Lyman Brace and Cullen Sprout, who recently stopped by the Harford Fair's Secretary Office to pick up copies of the 2017 Harford Fair premium book, so they could submit their entries.

August 1 is the deadline for submitting entries on-line or sending entry blanks.  Use only the 2017 up-to-date class listings in each department since there may be changes from last year’s fair.  The categories, the rules, and the entry blanks can be found on the fair website at www.harfordfair.com or in the fair book available at the secretary’s office on the fair grounds and in many other locations throughout the area. 

In addition to the department entries, there are many contests to enter, some of which include the Harford Fair Queen Contest, a Fun and Safety Poster Contest, the Woodsman’s Contest, the Animal Costume Dressing Contest, and the Turkey Calling Contest.  Harford Fair is proud to announce the Chocolate Baking Contest, the Angel Food Cake Contest, and the Apple Pie Contest.  The first place winner of each of these contests is eligible to enter the 2018 PA Farm Show competition in January.

Other contests and rules which are traditional events at the Harford Fair can be found on the fair website at www.harfordfair.com.  Do not use any listings of rules and classes from the past.  If you have questions, please call the Secretary’s Office at 434-4300, Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. 

So don’t miss out on anything offered at the 160th Harford Fair.  Submit your entry forms no later than August 1.  Plan your entries and hope to see you at the fair, August 21-26, 2017.

The US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office in Montrose Susquehanna County has a new summer intern. Keith Cameron will be working with NRCS District Conservationist Ain Welmon, NRCS Soil Conservation Tech.    Bob Wagner, ACES Technician John Benscoter and ACES Program Assistant Kay Garner. His internship runs for 10 weeks, during which Mr. Cameron will be learning about the many varied aspects of soil and natural resource conservation. Keith has already worked out in the field with Ain Welmon on farm conservation planning, Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) plant id and field eligibility for the program, Highly Erodible Land (HEL) measurement and determinations, Bob Wagner – soil and water conservation implementation, forestry conservation practices, John Benscoter on nutrient management from a farmers perspective, doing Inventory and Evaluation (I&E’s) on specific engineering of conservation practices, and DCNR Bureau of Forestry Service Forester Ryan Brown on tree and plant identification, forestry management and Kay Garner on computer conservation planning in the USDA toolkit system. He has also attended training sessions on Wetland Reserve Enhancement - identifying wetland plants, wetlands, soils and a Civil Rights meeting and training session at a Lavender farm operated by a veteran of the US Marines in Schuylkill County.

NRCS Summer Intern Keith Cameron (left) and USDA NRCS District Conservationist Ain Welmon (Photo By USDA NRCS)

Keith noted that, “Susquehanna County has been an amazing place to start my career in conservation. I come from a heavily populated area (SE Pa.) where I did not really get to appreciate the little things that nature has to offer. Here I am finding out first hand, through observation and interaction, the benefits that the natural land can give us in conjunction with agriculture as well as daily life.”

Cameron, currently a senior at Ohio State University (OSU) studying Environmental Sustainability (he is also the Recruiting director for the Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity), attended Lafayette College, in Easton Pa. on an athletic scholarship to play NCAA Division 1 Lacrosse for two years while studying Geology and is a 2014 graduate of Hatboro – Horsham HS in Montgomery County, Pa. 

United Way of Susquehanna County and its Community Partners, Southwestern Energy Company and Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center Celebrated the Grand Opening of Second Little Free Library in Thompson, PA.

Little Free Libraries are a growing global phenomenon. The small, front‐yard book exchanges number 36,000 around the world in 70 countries. Now, a new Little Free Library is available in Thompson, PA.

United Way of Susquehanna County along with its community partners, Southwestern Energy Company, Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center and the Boy Scouts of America, Baden- Powell Council has joined the movement to share books, bring people together and create communities of readers. A ribbon cutting ceremony for their second Little Free Library, which is located at the Thompson Hose Company (53 Water St, Thompson, PA 18465), was held on Tuesday, June 20th at 12PM. Special thanks to Fire Chief, Chad Wallace and President, Robert Conklin from the Thompson Hose Company for allowing us to install the Little Free Library at their facility.

Pictured from (l-r) are: Mike Narcavage and Aaron Treadway, Southwestern Energy Company and Dr. Alice Davis and Bruce Castelli, Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center

“Our Little Free Library doesn’t just belong to us, it belongs to the whole community,” says Kim Merithew, Director of Corporate and Community Giving. This initiative aligns with our goal of Helping Children Do Well focusing on programs that support academic readiness, mentorship, family stability and childhood wellness. “It’s our hope that this Little Free Library will bring a little more joy, a little more connection and a whole lot more books to our community”, added Dr. Alice M. Davis-Executive Director, Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center. “Southwestern Energy Company and its employees are excited to be a part of this community initiative” shared Mike Narcavage, Community Relations Manager.

One of the most successful ways to improve the reading achievement of children is to increase their access to books, especially at home (McGill-Franzen & Allington, 2009). But according to the U.S. Department of Education, up to 61% of low-income families do not have any books for their kids at home.

Little Free Libraries play an essential role by providing 24/7 access to books and encouraging a love of reading in areas where books are scarce.

Anyone may contribute or take books. You can donate a book(s) by simply placing them in the Little Free Library book exchange near you. If you take a book (or two) from a Library, you do not need to return that exact book. However, in order to keep the Little Library full of good choices for the whole neighborhood, the next time you swing by the Library bring a few books to share. Little Free Library book exchanges function on the honor system; everyone contributes to ensure there are always quality books inside for both children and adults. This way, we all win!

In addition, informational pamphlets will be available to help connect the community to health and human service agencies serving Susquehanna County residents.

Special thanks are extended to the Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Instructor, Bruce Castelli and his students: Tom Martin, Brian Kozloski, Brian Traver, Alex Brown and Griffin Bunnell for their expert design and craftsmanship building each Little Free Library unit. Under Mr. Castelli’s leadership, the students are learning lifelong, valuable skills and have created a lasting community project for many, both young and old, to enjoy.

Additionally, the Boy Scouts have taken on the responsibility of stewardship for the units and the Scouts can earn community service hours towards rank advancement, says Adam Kovalchick, Acting Program Director. 

Special thanks to Southwestern Energy Company employee, Aaron Treadway, for his help installing the unit.

There are plans for the installation of 1 more Little Free Library unit in Susquehanna County in the coming months, says Ms. Merithew. Stay tuned for details.

Senator Lisa Baker, R-20th, announced that Field Representative Tom Yoniski will be available for consultation from 10AM to 12PM on Wednesday, July 5 at the Susquehanna Depot Borough Building, 83 Erie Boulevard, Suite A, Susquehanna Depot.

He will also be available from 10AM to 12PM on Tuesday, July 25 at the Forest City Borough Building, 535 Main St., Forest City and from 1-3 that same day at the Lenox Township Municipal Building, 2811 State Route 92, Kingsley.

While appointments are recommended, walk-ins are welcome.

Constituents are encouraged to visit with any questions or problems relating to state matters and no appointment is necessary though they can be scheduled. Concerns may also be addressed by visiting Senator Baker’s district office at 22 Dallas Shopping Center, Dallas, by visiting her website at  or by calling (570) 675-3931.

Bumble Bee

Introducing the amazing Bumble Bee who given the opportunity, will spend countless hours playing in the pool at True Friends. Bumble not only LOVES the water, but also everybody he meets. He is neutered, 6 years old, and a very well behaved boy with an exceptionally lighthearted personality. Bumble has not had an easy life for a dog so far, but he doesn’t let that get him down. He is always upbeat and ready to have some fun. All of us at True Friends love this adorable guy and are hopeful he will find a home soon and be able to enjoy the summer months with lots of playtime in the water. If you may be the someone who could give him the life he dreams of, stop by and meet Bumble, you will surely fall in love.

We are in search of vendors for Woofstock on Saturday, August 19th at Salt Springs Park. Anyone who is interested can contact us at petstruefriends@gmail.com. Our True Friends family is counting the days until our momentous 6th year anniversary and hope to see all our advocates, supporters, and four legged friends there!

The following names were drawn to serves as Petit and Traverse jurors for March, to appear in the Court of Common Pleas, Susquehanna County Courthouse (large courtroom), Montrose, PA, on July 10th, 2017 at 9AM.

Apolacon Township: Steven Noyes.

Ararat Township: Janice Serfilippi.

Auburn Township: Cassie Holley, Jill Lunger, Jerry Mikus, Terry Ruhf.

Bridgewater Township: George Arnold, John Gregory, Linda Griffis, Thomas Kerr, Jill Morrison, Debra Smith, Eileen Spickerman, Robert Washak.

Brooklyn Township: Bradley Chidester.

Choconut Township: Gregory Peck.

Clifford Township: Owen Conaghan, Richard Donvito, Dawn Kozik, Corrine Ross.

Dimock Township: Rachel Bartron, Charmarie Bisel.

Forest City 1st Ward: Mary Garm.

Franklin Township: Randy Estabrook, Carolyn Pratt, Michael Zuba.

Friendsville Borough: Mark Legg.

Great Bend Borough: Dawn Crook.

Great Bend Township: Allan Elbrecht.

Hallstead Borough: Sandra Kaub.

Harford Township: Timothy Fisher, Vicki R. Goodrich, Richard Masters.

Harmony Township: Paul Downton, Joan Janicelli.

Herrick Township: Candis Finan.

Jackson Township: John Knight.

Jessup Township: Rhonda Morrison.

Lathrop Township: Paula Coleman.

Lenox Township: Bradley Marcy, William Zewan.

Liberty Township: Joann Henry.

New Milford Borough: Kristen Hinkley, Melissa Kovitch.

New Milford Township: Delores Davis.

Oakland Township: Karen Broad.

Rush Township: John Snyder.

Silver Lake Township: Sandra Greenough, Karrie Rajnes, James Taylor.

Springville Township:  Jason Rinker, Jeremy Williams, Barbara Zielinski.

Susquehanna Borough 1st Ward: David Branning, Theresa Felter.

Susquehanna Borough 2nd Ward: Alisha Perry, Elizabeth Tingley.

Thompson Borough: Jeffrey McRoberts.

Thompson Township: Patricia Huenemoerder, Anthony Recklitis.

Annville, PA – As the winter gives way to warmer weather and longer days, more people are hitting the roads en route to outdoor activities and vacation destinations. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs suggests that while personal vehicle travel is picking up, now is a good time to purchase an Honoring Our Veterans license plate to show patriotism, while also supporting veterans in need.

"You do not have to be a veteran or active military to purchase one of these license plates and proudly honor veterans while traveling Pennsylvania's scenic roadways, or when driving to other states throughout the country," said Brig. Gen. Tony Carrelli, Pennsylvania's adjutant general. "Veterans always appreciate being acknowledged for their service, and these license plates are the perfect way to say 'thank you,' while also supporting veterans and their families who need assistance."

Available for passenger cars, motorcycles, and light duty trucks up to 10,000 pounds, an Honoring Our Veterans license plate costs $35, with $15 dollars benefitting Pennsylvania's Veterans' Trust Fund (VTF). The VTF issues grants to statewide charitable organizations that aid veterans service organizations and county directors of veterans affairs in assisting veterans in need of shelter and necessities of living.

"PennDOT is proud to offer the Honoring Our Veterans plate," said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. "It is truly a wonderful way for citizens of the commonwealth to show their support for veterans and make a contribution to the Veterans' Trust Fund."

In addition to the sales of these license plates, there are a number of other programs designed to help fund the VTF in support of Pennsylvania veterans. To learn more about other VTF programs or to purchase an Honoring Our Veterans license plate, visit www.vtf.pa.gov or follow DMVA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/padmva.

Staying active doesn’t just keep a waistline in check, it benefits every part of the body, including the brain.

Now is the time to renew your commitment to staying fit. Here are some top tips to get moving more.

• Rethink Your Commute. Leave the car keys at home and lace up your sneakers instead. Commuting to work by bike is a great way to bookend the work day with some aerobic activity.

• Take a Walk. Even the most adventurous weekend warriors are sometimes required to sit or stand in place for long stretches in the workplace. If your job keeps you sedentary, break up the day with a brisk walk outdoors during lunch. Throughout the day, stretch your legs with a loop around your work station. It sounds counter-intuitive, but a short break spent being physically active can help boost your overall productivity.

• Get Out of Town. Skip the gym and plan a day or weekend trip dedicated to physical fitness. Whether it’s hiking a nearby trail, kayaking a local river, or doing yoga in the park, there’s nothing like getting your exercise fix in nature.

• Gear up. New tech gear is helping support people’s efforts to get outdoors and stay fit, so consider gearing up before your next adventure. For example, Casio’s PRO TREK WSD-F20 Smart Outdoor Watch is water-resistant and equipped with GPS capabilities and a full-color map display. Users can download maps in advance to continue getting navigation guidance even when they are offline or out of range. Vital information, such as travel speed, elapsed time and distance, is close at hand without checking your smartphone -- making it a good choice for cyclists. Other tools include a compass, altimeter and barometer.

• Try Something New. Change up your fitness routine from time to time to avoid hitting a plateau. This will keep things mentally interesting so you don’t lose interest in exercise. What’s more, a new class or activity may “surprise” your body by working different muscles in a new way.

With a few simple strategies and the right tools, incorporating fitness into your life can be fun and easy. (StatePoint)

It’s an age-old conundrum. To advance professionally, often one must go back to school. However, earning a degree might seem like an insurmountable challenge because of the demands of a current job.

Experts say that more education is not only advantageous, but downright necessary in certain industries, particularly where technology is changing the playing field.

For instance, Hannah Hughes, Dean of Nursing at Strayer University points out that, “The impact of technology on healthcare continues to evolve the practice of nursing, and there is currently a technology skills gap among some nurses. Today’s nurses should be preparing themselves to operate in this dynamic technologically-rich environment.”

What’s more, Hughes notes, is that like many industries, advanced degrees and certifications in nursing can have a high impact on a career advancement, enhancing one’s credibility, marketability and earning potential.

If you find yourself wanting or needing to go back to school, these tips can help create a good life-study balance.

• Don’t be a one-man band. Take advantage of the educational support systems provided by your school, such as tutoring, writing assistance, career services, technical support and on-campus activities.

Figure out where your “pain points” are and create your own support networks. Form a babysitting share with other parents in your classes to alleviate the financial burden of childcare or create a virtual study group to prepare for exams.

• Identify short study windows. Maximize downtime whenever you have it. Have an infant? Read your assignments out loud to your child. Are your children enrolled in sports? Read assignments during practices or at halftimes. On the job? Study on your lunch break.

• Select a program wisely. Look for programs designed to make it easy for busy, working people to earn degrees. For example, Strayer University offers the flexibility to learn online or in a classroom, students are matched with personal Success Coaches to help them balance responsibilities, and classes begin four times a year, offering degree-seekers greater flexibility. For these reasons, their online RN to BSN degree program, for example, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, can be a good fit for working nurses with demanding shifts. To learn more, visit www.Strayer.edu/bsn.

“Selecting a program that understands the actual demands of your field and the evolving priorities of your employer, can help you apply your knowledge now and meet professional goals later,” says Hughes.

• Stay up-to-date in your field. Be a more efficient, successful student and professional by staying current on your evolving industry. For example, nurses can brush up on healthcare informatics, as well as understand how changes to healthcare policy will impact the way they deliver care.

• Laugh often. All work and no play doesn’t make Jack a dull boy – it makes him tired and ineffectual. Take time for loved ones who make you laugh and keep up with your favorite funny podcasts. It’s helpful to keep your sense of humor as you take on another responsibility.

Whether you’re a teacher, a nurse, work for a company, or are in business for yourself, an advanced degree can offer you greater job satisfaction and earning potential, and the right program and study habits can make it a manageable challenge. (StatePoint)

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) toa555 - Fotolia.com

Slips, trips and falls that cause injury and death are all too common, and they disproportionately affect older people. Indeed, one-third of older U.S. adults suffer falls each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What’s more, a fear of falling can alter habits, negatively impacting one’s quality of life.

Fortunately, many such falls are highly preventable. Changes in vision, balance and muscle strength that can occur as one ages can be addressed, and other external risk factors can be prevented.

Staying Vital

Regular exercise is important for maintaining the physical strength and mobility needed to reduce the risk of falls. Taking classes to improve balance, such as tai chi, has also been shown to reduce the risk of falls.

Many community centers and fitness clubs offer classes designed for older individuals, so be sure to consult your healthcare provider for an exercise routine that is appropriate for you.

“Set a reminder to get regular health screenings for bone density, vision and other fall risk factors. Staying aware of these physical changes and adapting to them, can help you remain healthy and independent,” says Carrie Nie, director, Safe Communities America, National Safety Council.

Home Modifications

“Most falls happen at home, so it’s important for individuals, caregivers and loved ones to focus on keeping the home free of safety hazards that increase the likelihood of falls,” says Nie.

Installing grab bars, additional handrails and extra lighting can make it easier to maintain balance, improve vision and avoid tripping hazards. You should also free walking areas of tripping hazards, such as electrical and phone cords and open drawers and cabinets. To avoid slips, use non-skid rugs, clean up spills immediately and wear proper footwear.

Community Engagement

Individuals and loved ones should look into local resources available that can help prevent falls and maintain older adults’ independence, as well as get involved in efforts to make their community more accessible.

Many communities are already engaged in such efforts. For example, counties, cities, towns and universities accredited by the National Safety Council Safe Communities America program, put initiatives into place to raise awareness of the risk of falls and increase older adult independence and safety at the local level. The program also works with volunteer groups to make the homes of older adults safer. For example, one such volunteer group, “Team Handyman,” installs grab bars, hand rails and other safety features in the homes of older adults in Midland, Michigan.

To learn more about fall prevention, as well as community safety efforts, visit nsc.org.

While aging itself is not the cause of falls, older people are at greater risk of taking a spill. To reduce your risk of falling, keep your home safe, your body strong and your community engaged. (StatePoint)

Hello! My name is Dana Nunemacher and I’m an Alternate Dairy Princess in Susquehanna County. This is my third year participating on the Susquehanna County Dairy Promotion team and I am so excited for another moo-tastic year!

Dana Nunemacher, Susquehanna County Alternate Dairy Princess

The dairy industry became a part of my life at a very young age. My brother showed dairy cows for many years and finally I was old enough to join him. I do not show cows currently, but I do realize that it is super important to share with the public about how essential it is to include dairy in our diet. Also, I realize that all hard working dairy farmers deserve tremendous amounts of recognition for their dedication.  

July is Ice Cream Month. This means there is now a perfect excuse to eat ice cream every single day. Not able to get to the ice cream shop or just ran out of your favorite half-gallon of ice cream? I have the perfect solution to your problem; make your own ice cream. Below is a very simple recipe to create your own vanilla ice cream. Add your own personal touch (may I suggest sprinkles?) and you have your own delicious creation.

Items Needed:1 cup MILK,1 cup heavy whipping CREAM,1 half cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 2 coffee cans with lids: one 12-16 ounce coffee can and one 2-3 pound coffee can, duct tape, ice, rock salt.

Steps to Deliciousness: 

1. Inside the smaller coffee can mix the MILK, heavy whipping CREAM, sugar and vanilla. Wipe outside of can to ensure that it is dry. Secure the lid on the small can with duct tape.
   
   
2. Place the smaller (now filled) can into the center of the larger can. Place crushed ice all around the small can. When the can is almost full with ice, sprinkle rock salt (about 3/4 cup) on the ice. Cover the large can with its lid, wipe down any moisture or frost that is collecting on the outside and tape the lid securely on with duct tape.
   
   
3. With a friend roll the can around on the floor for about 15 minutes. Open the large can and remove the smaller can. Open the smaller can and scrape down the inside of any ice cream that has formed on the sides of the can. Cover can once again, wipe and dry outside of can the best you can, and secure the lid with duct tape. Since there will be more frost and wetness on the outside of the can, you will probably find that the duct tape doesn't hold to the can -- this means you will need to tape all the way around and secure the tape rather than the can.
   
   
4. Drain off the water from the large can and place the smaller can inside the larger can again. Repeat with the ice and rock salt as previously. Secure the lid on the larger can just as you did with the smaller can.
   
   
5. Roll can on floor for another 15 minutes. Open large can and remove small can. Open the small can, scrape down sides again. The ice cream can now be served or if you wish it to be more firm, simply place the small can directly into your freezer for a few hours.

Enjoy your Ice Cream! Don’t forget to thank the hardworking dairy farmers across Pennsylvania who work every day to produce the milk needed for this sweet treat.