County Living

HomeCounty Living ( September 24, 2025 )

County Launches New Heritage Drive Trail

The Susquehanna County Promotion & Tourism Agency and the Heritage Trail organizing committee announced the launch of the inaugural Heritage Trail - a self-guided driving tour designed to highlight the region's historic sites, cultural landmarks, and scenic vistas. Debuting during the height of the fall foliage season, the trail offers residents and visitors a unique opportunity to explore the county's history while experiencing the natural beauty that makes autumn at the top of the Endless Mountains so memorable. All sites will be open on Saturday, Oct. 4, 10:00am - 4:00pm. SCPTA received an America250PA Semiquin Grant in support of this event.

The Heritage Trail connects a variety of sites that showcase the Susquehanna County's rich past – from charming small-town main streets and historic sites to iconic landmarks, and museums. Each stop is paired with interpretive content, encouraging participants to dive deeper into local history while enjoying the colors and landscapes of northeastern Pennsylvania. Travelers can begin the trail at any point and explore at their own pace, making it an ideal seasonal activity for families, history buffs, and leaf-peepers alike.

"This trail is more than a map of historic locations – it's an invitation to discover the stories of the people and places that shaped Susquehanna County," said Staci Wilson, director of the Susquehanna County Promotion & Tourism Agency. "Along with our partner organizations, we're proud to launch the Heritage Trail during such a spectacular season, when visitors can enjoy the breathtaking fall colors that frame these landmarks in an unforgettable way."

The trail is made possible through the collaboration of the Susquehanna County Promotion & Tourism Agency and the representatives from participating organizations and historical sites. Special events happening on Oct. 4 include: Historic Gown Display at the Susquehanna County Historical Society (Oct. 3-4); Civil War Days at Old Mill Village (Oct. 4-5); and a Heritage Food Celebration at the Forest City Area Historical Society.

Also happening on Oct. 4, docents will be present and site tours will take place at the Priesthood Restoration Site, Richmond Hill Schoolhouse, Soldier's Orphan School, Center For Anti-Slavery Studies, Russell Clapper Model Train Display, American Legion Post #357 Museum, Salt Springs Park – Wheaton House, Martin's Creek Viaduct Overlook with Brooklyn Historical Society, Yarns Cider Mill with Clifford Township Historical Society, Lathrop Township Historic & Genealogy Society and the Historic Dennis Farm.

In addition to the October 4 activities planned, Susquehanna County Promotion & Tourism has set up a Heritage Trail mobile challenge. Visitors can check-in at each site on their mobile devices and earn some virtual badges and real prizes along the way. The virtual challenge is underway, with history buffs encouraged to visit as many sites as possible before Oct. 7. To sign up for the mobile challenge head to visitsusqco.com and see the Heritage Trail under the "Things to Do" tab. A map is built into the mobile guide ensuring easy access for those eager to embark on this new seasonal adventure. Brochures are also available.

For more information about the Susquehanna County Heritage Trail and to plan your visit, visit our website: visitsusqco.com or text/call #VisitSusqCo at 570-767-4151.

The Susquehanna County Promotion & Tourism Agency is dedicated to showcasing the natural beauty, historic charm, and welcoming communities of Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains region. Through events, attractions, and partnerships with local businesses, the Agency promotes tourism that celebrates the county's heritage while supporting economic growth and community vitality. For more information, visit visitsusqco.com or follow @VisitSusqCo on social media.

Back to Top

DKG Tri-Chapter Meet With State President

Submitted by Cindy Reynolds

Months of planning by the presidents of Alpha Zeta, Beta Rho, and Phi Chapters of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International (DKG) resulted in a lovely Tri-Chapter meeting at the Inne of the Abingtons. Presidents Stephanie Olver, Alpha Zeta; Karen Voigt, Beta Rho; and Elaine Wells, Phi Chapter met via zoom meetings as well as in-person meetings to plan the meeting, luncheon, and program. They worked so well together and supported each other for the meeting which included the visit from State President Royce Boyd and forty-six members from the chapters.

 

Pictured (l-r) are: Beta Rho Chapter president Karen Voigt, member Cindy Reynolds and DKG PA President Royce Boyd

One of the goals of the state president's visit during her biennium is to see the chapters conduct their business meetings and to hear about the activities they are involved in. The chapter presidents took the unique approach to conduct a joint business meeting for the president's visit. Pasta and sauce were collected for the Summer Lunchbox Program in Susquehanna County and other items were donated for the Support Early Educators (SEE) basket.

Beta Rho member Teresa Cavalier gave an overview of the state Creative Arts Retreat held in May at Camp Ladore in Waymart. It proved to be a relaxing weekend gathering to participate in a variety of crafts, wellness and stimulating workshops of choice presented by DKG members from across the state.  Beta Rho Chapter members Pat Arnold, Teresa Cavalier and Gayle Cobb assisting and Cindy Reynolds presented workshops at the retreat.

State President Royce Boyd from Bedford brought a message highlighting different styles of leadership with a variety of hats to encourage members in leadership rolls. She encouraged members to attend the state convention at Kalahari in mid-June for the purposeful seminar, workshops, DKG PA state business, connecting with new and old friends and the presentation of the PA State Achievement Award. Following her presentation, a gift was presented to Royce for coming. The gift was an original watercolor painting of a covered bridge close to Royce's Bedford home. Cindy Reynolds designed and did the original watercolor painting which left Royce speechless following the presentation.

The combined business meeting provided attendees the opportunity to hear about projects, successful fundraisers, volunteer services and miscellaneous items to enrich their own chapters. Alpha Zeta does a Baby Book Project; Beta Rho does a Bake Sale and Craft Sale Project during "Christmas in Montrose" and Phi Chapter does a very profitable Designer Purse Bingo Project. Following the adjournment, there was time for members to meet members from other chapters, share ideas and just enjoy each other's company. A delicious buffet luncheon which accommodated various dietary needs was then served.

Following the luncheon, Deb Nuernberger, Phi Chapter, presented the program "Brain Gym-Integration for Peak Performance." She introduced the members to some techniques to exercise the brain like we exercise our bodies.

The afternoon ended with the group joining hands in a circle and singing The Delta Kappa Gamma Song.

Back to Top

New Officers For Honesdale Rotary

Submitted by Lisa Champeau

More than 30 members of Honesdale's Rotary Club showed up at Central House, Beach Lake, on Wednesday, June 25th to celebrate the swearings-in of President Kathi McKenna, President-elect James Hamill, Secretary Dana Scott, Treasurer Maureen Beilman and Sergeant-at-Arms Michelle Gilder. The club also presented Mike Flederbach, whose family owns Dave's Super Duper, with an honorary Paul Harris Award for his generous contributions to many community efforts, including food pantries and Honesdale Rotary. The officers were sworn in by Andy Lane Chapman, a Honesdale Rotarian who will be the Governor of District 7410 in 2026-2027, during which time Honesdale Rotary turns 100!

President McKenna cited many Honesdale Rotary projects – blood drives, Sycamore Point benches, biannual roadside cleanups – and hoped the club "would add more service projects, not just our own but helping other community organizations, the way we helped the Bethany Library recently with its Strawberry Festival."

McKenna succeeded Dana Scott, who helped found the club's biggest fundraiser, the annual Beer & Wine Fest and the Pet Pawrade, thanked the club for her term. The Fest this year is Saturday, September 27th.

Honesdale Rotary is part of Rotary International, a service club that counts more than one million members worldwide. All are welcome.

Back to Top

Red Cross Urges Us To Get Ready

September is National Preparedness Month and the Southern Tier chapter of the American Red Cross of Western New York urges everyone to protect their loved ones by getting their households ready now.

In the last year, Red Cross volunteers from across the region's 27-county footprint responded to 763 disasters and assisted 1,234 families in their recovery from severe weather-related disasters such as flooding, high winds, winter weather and home fires. In July, Red Cross volunteers were on the scene to provide food and water and assist with recovery efforts for families affected by damaging high winds and rain in Susquehanna County.

As the seasons change and especially as the winter season approaches, families are encouraged to take time to prepare now for emergencies before they strike.

"National Preparedness Month is a great time to ask whether your family would be ready if something unexpected happened tomorrow," said Zachariah Riley, Executive Director, American Red Cross of Western New York Southern Tier chapter. "It's not about being scared; it's about being smart and looking out for the people you love. Taking a few simple steps now so that you have a plan can make all the difference when it matters most."

Disasters don't wait for the "right time" – they can happen in the middle of the night, during your commute or while your kids are at school. Protect your family by making a plan to stay safe, gathering important supplies and knowing how you'll stay connected by taking these steps:

* Depending on the emergency, you may need to stay where you are or go somewhere else to stay safe. If you may need to leave, think about where you'll go, how you'll get there, where you'll stay and what you'll take with you. Plan well in advance if you'll need help leaving or use public transportation.
*
* Next, gather and organize critical supplies – like food, water and medicine – into a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit. Make sure to include backup batteries and chargers for your devices (cell phone, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.), a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, and critical personal records.
*
* Your go-kit should include three days of supplies that you can take with you. Your stay-at-home kit should have two weeks of food and water, and a one-month supply of medications, if possible.
*
* Customize your kit to meet your household's specific needs. If you have young children, don't forget formula and diapers. If you have pets, include leashes, carriers, food, bowls, litter and a litterbox.
*
* Finally, make a plan to reconnect with loved ones if you are separated or if the phone or internet is down. Write down important phone numbers on a contact card and carry it with you.
*
Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for weather alerts, safety steps for different emergencies and expert advice in both English and Spanish. Don't forget to sign up for local government emergency alerts to get critical local information – like evacuation notices – during an emergency.

People can also help their community be better prepared for disasters by giving blood, taking a class in lifesaving skills like CPR, or becoming a Red Cross volunteer. Visit redcross.org or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) to learn more today.

"Whether it's a fire in someone's home or a storm that destroys an entire town, disasters can happen anywhere, at any time," Riley said. "Taking a few minutes now to get ready will help you protect your loved ones if the worst happens."

Back to Top

Food Labels, Greek Gods, WWII At MASD

Submitted by Ann Vitale

Are you confused by all the ingredients on some prepared foods? What is their purpose? Are they necessary? Do you know what the daily requirements on the label mean? Register for Class 204, UNDERSTANDING FOOD LABELS, through the Montrose Area Adult School and a registered dietician-nutritionist will explain how to choose healthy foods on a daily basis so you can then go out to eat and enjoy treats without guilt.

This class will be held October 7 at 10:00am in the conference room at Endless Mountains Health Systems. Walk-ins accepted but registrations are appreciated for room set-up.

On October 2, at 1:00pm in the library on High School Road, Montrose, a discussion of WORLD WAR II, THE HOME FRONT, Part 2, will be presented. Participation in Part I isn't necessary as this lecture covers different topics. What were changes in agriculture, the work force, and how were planes, ships, uniforms, and C-Rations produced and by whom? The speed with which the USA addressed the war needs is an exciting story.

Register for Class 502 through the Adult School. Walk-in registrations are also accepted.

THOSE CRAZY GREEK GODS, Class 501, October 14, at the library at 1:00pm. brings back the popular and humorous Anne Armezzani. Life was never dull on Mount Olympus and happenings there contributed to our language and culture. Heroic deeds and misdeeds alike will be discussed.

Send registrations for the above classes, with $5 fees to: MAAS, PO Box 433, Montrose, PA 18801. Registration forms are in the print catalogs or can be printed online from www.montroseadultschool.org. Click on Students and download the registration form. Librarians will help if necessary.

October also features two free classes: MEDICARE BASICS. Choose October 1 at 1:00pm or October 9 at 6:00pm. INFORMATION ON AGING AND SENIOR SERVICES, October 6, is also free. See the MAAS catalog in print at the libraries and some post offices, banks, and retail locations for details and registration forms.

Back to Top

Courthouse Report

The Susquehanna County DOMESTIC RELATIONS Section has outstanding BENCH WARRANTS for the following individuals as of 8:40am on September 19, 2025. Lloyd Baker, Matthew S. Elders, Robert Mireider III, Tyler J. Nelson, Christopher M. Stephens, Charles Vanwinkle Jr. Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 4050 with any information on the location of these individuals.

DEEDS as of 09-24-25

McNamara, John J and McNamara, Anna (AKA) and McNamara, Anastasia to Armstrong, Dustin and Armstrong, Carol for $1,250,000.00 in Jackson Township.

Serafini, Gregory and Serafini, Tammy (NKA) and Clark, Tammy Ann to Serafini, Gregory for $1.00 in Lenox Township.

Bannister, William H Jr and Bannister, Kristen E to Bannister, William H Jr and Bannister, Kristen E for $1.00 in Thompson Township.

Nash, Randy A and Nash, Toni A to Zurla, Margaret L and Gregory, John D for $351,000.00, two locations in Forest Lake Township.

Bonavita, John J (Estate AKA) and Bonavita, John J Sr (Estate) and Bonavita, Cherie A to Bonavita, Patricia and Bonavita, Cindy L for $1.00 in Auburn Township.

Smith, Kenneth J (AKA) and Smith, Kenneth John to Bocchino, Victor for $237,000.00, two locations in Lathrop Township.

Hower, Richard J and Hower, Karen to Hower, Richard J and Hower, Karen and Hower, Mary Claudine for $1.00 in Brooklyn Township.

Andre, Mark L and Andre, Debra A to Andre, Scott T and Andre, Laurie M for $1.00 in Bridgewater Township.

Leatso, Gary F to Leatso, Gary F and Leatso, Linette M for $1.00 in Great Bend Township.

Scott, James and Arens, Billie Jo to Capwell, Ethan for $200,000.00 in Forest City 2W.

Clarkson, Melissa A and Titus, Kent to Titus, Kent for $1.00 in Harford Township.

Clarkson, Melissa A and Titus, Kent to Clarkson, Melissa A for $1.00 in Harford Township.

Haynes, Frederick W (Estate AKA) and Haynes, Frederick William Sr (Estate) to Haynes, Brent Adam for $1.00 in New Milford Township.

Susquehanna County Council of Government to Panuski Michael for $79,901.00, one location in Bridgewater Township and one in New Milford Borough.

Back to Top